bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Free-breathing 3D phase-resolved functional lung MRI vs breath-hold hyperpolarized 129Xe ventilation MRI in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and healthy volunteers
Authors: Klimeš Filip , Kern Agilo Luitger , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Gutberlet Marcel , Grimm Robert , Müller Robin Aaron , Behrendt Lea , Kaireit Till Frederik , Glandorf Julian , Alsady Tawfik Moher , Wacker Frank , Hohlfeld Jens M. , Vogel-Claussen Jens
Published: July 2024

Objectives

3D phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI offers evaluation of pulmonary ventilation without inhalation of contrast agent. This study seeks to compare ventilation maps obtained from 3D PREFUL MRI with a direct ventilation measurement derived from 129Xe MRI in both patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and healthy volunteers.

Methods

Thirty-one patients with COPD and 12 healthy controls underwent free-breathing 3D PREFUL MRI and breath-hold 129Xe MRI at 1.5 T. For both MRI techniques, ventilation defect (VD) maps were determined and respective ventilation defect percentage (VDP) values were computed. All parameters of both techniques were compared by Spearman correlation coefficient (r) and the differences between VDP values were quantified by Bland–Altman analysis and tested for significance using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. In a regional comparison of VD maps, spatial overlap and Sørensen–Dice coefficients of healthy and defect areas were computed.

Results

On a global level, all 3D PREFUL VDP values correlated significantly to VDP measure derived by 129Xe ventilation imaging (all r > 0.65; all p < 0.0001). 129Xe VDP was significantly greater than 3D PREFUL derived VDPRVent (mean bias = 10.5%, p < 0.001) and VDPFVL-CM (mean bias = 11.3%, p < 0.0001) but not for VDPCombined (mean bias = 1.7%, p = 0.70). The total regional agreement of 129Xe and 3D PREFUL VD maps ranged between 60% and 63%.

Conclusions

Free-breathing 3D PREFUL MRI showed a strong correlation with breath-hold hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI regarding the VDP values and modest differences in the detection of VDs on a regional level.

Clinical relevance statement

3D PREFUL MRI correlated with 129Xe MRI, unveiling regional differences in COPD defect identification. This proposes 3D PREFUL MRI as a ventilation mapping surrogate, eliminating the need for extra hardware or inhaled gases.

Key Points

Current non-invasive evaluation techniques for lung diseases have drawbacks;

129

Xe MRI is limited by cost and availability.

3D PREFUL MRI correlated with

129

Xe MRI, with regional differences in identifying COPD defects.

3D PREFUL MRI can provide ventilation mapping without the need for additional hardware or inhaled gases.
Grading urothelial carcinoma with probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy during flexible cystoscopy
Authors: de Ruiter Ben-Max , Freund Jan Erik , Savci-Heijnink C. Dilara , van Hattum Jons W. , de Reijke Theo M. , Baard Joyce , Kamphuis Guido M. , de Bruin D. Martijn , Oddens Jorg R.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Urothelial bladder cancer (UCB) care requires frequent follow-up cystoscopy and surgery. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) is a probe-based optical technique that can provide real-time microscopic evaluation with the potential for outpatient grading of UCB. This study aims to investigate the diagnostic accuracy and interobserver variability for the grading of UCB with CLE during flexible cystoscopy (fCLE).

Methods

Participants scheduled for transurethral resection of papillary bladder tumors were prospectively included for intra-operative fCLE. Exclusion criteria were flat lesions, fluorescein allergy or pregnancy. Two independent observers evaluated fCLE, classifying tumors as low- or high-grade urothelial carcinoma (LGUC/HGUC) or benign. Interobserver agreement was calculated with Cohens kappa (κ) and diagnostic accuracy with 2 × 2 tables. Histopathology was the reference test.

Results

Histopathology of 34 lesions revealed 14 HGUC, 14 LGUC and 6 benign tumors. Diagnostic yield for fCLE was 80–85% with a κ of 0.75. Respectively, sensitivity, specificity, NPV and PPV were: for benign tumors 0–20%, 96–100%, unmeasureable-50% and 87%, for LGUC 57–64%, 41–58%, 44–53% and 54–69% and for HGUC 38–57%, 56–68%, 38–57% and 56–68%, with an interobserver agreement of κ 0.61.

Conclusion

fCLE is currently insufficient to grade UCB.
A fixed-stress splitting method for nonlinear poroelasticity
Authors: Kraus Johannes , Kumar Kundan , Lymbery Maria , Radu Florin A.
Published: July 2024

In this paper we consider a nonlinear poroelasticity model that describes the quasi-static mechanical behaviour of a fluid-saturated porous medium whose permeability depends on the divergence of the displacement. Such nonlinear models are typically used to study biological structures like tissues, organs, cartilage and bones, which are known for a nonlinear dependence of their permeability/hydraulic conductivity on solid dilatation. We formulate (extend to the present situation) one of the most popular splitting schemes, namely the fixed-stress split method for the iterative solution of the coupled problem. The method is proven to converge linearly for sufficiently small time steps under standard assumptions. The error contraction factor then is strictly less than one, independent of the Lamé parameters, Biot and storage coefficients if the hydraulic conductivity is a strictly positive and Lipschitz-continuous function.
Association between carotid plaque progression and persistent endothelial dysfunction in an infarct-related coronary artery in STEMI survivors
Authors: Horikoshi Takeo , Nakamura Takamitsu , Yamada Ryota , Yoshizaki Toru , Watanabe Yosuke , Uematsu Manabu , Kobayashi Tsuyoshi , Sato Akira
Published: July 2024

Persistent coronary endothelial dysfunction predicts future adverse events; however, performing multiple invasive endothelial function tests is difficult in actual clinical practice. This study examined the association between carotid plaque progression and persistent coronary endothelial dysfunction using serial assessments of the coronary vasomotor response to acetylcholine (ACh) in the infarct-related artery (IRA) among patients with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI). This study included 169 consecutive patients with a first STEMI due to the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion who underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention. The vasomotor response to ACh in the LAD was measured within two weeks after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) (first test) and repeated at six months (second test) after AMI. Ultrasonography of the bilateral common carotid artery and internal carotid artery was performed during the acute phase, and the thickest intima-media thickness (IMT) of either artery was measured as the maximum IMT. After six months, the IMT at the site of maximal IMT was re-measured to determine the carotid plaque progression. Finally, 87 STEMI patients analyzed. At 6 months, 25 patients (28.7%) showed carotid plaque progression. In a multivariable analysis, carotid plaque progression was identified as an independent predictor of persistent coronary endothelial dysfunction, both in terms of coronary diameter response [odd ratio (OR) 3.22, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.13–9.15, p = 0.03] and coronary flow response [OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.01–7.00, p = 0.04]. Independently, carotid plaque progression is linked to persistent endothelial dysfunction in the IRA among STEMI survivors.
Elevation dependent change in ERA5 precipitation and its extremes
Authors: Ferguglia Olivia , Palazzi Elisa , Arnone Enrico
Published: July 2024

Mountain regions are recognised as hot-spots of climate change. Although the existence of an Elevation-Dependent Warming has been extensively confirmed in several mountain areas of the globe, fewer studies have analysed the elevational stratification of temporal trends of other climate variables, and particularly for precipitation. This study analyses changes in mean precipitation and its extremes in ERA5 global reanalysis data in key mountain areas of the globe, along with their elevational dependence, from 1951 to 2020. These include the Tibetan Plateau, the US Rocky Mountains, the Greater Alpine Region, and the Andes, as representative of different latitudes and climatic influences. Our analysis reveals common patterns of elevational dependent change in precipitation and its extremes in most of the mountainous areas, which emerge beyond their geographical differences. A positive elevational gradient of trends of extreme precipitation indices is found in the Tibetan Plateau, the Greater Alpine Region, and the subtropical Andes, highlighting a wetting effect (positive trends) at very high elevations. In contrast, the Rocky Mountains exhibit a negative elevational gradient, with a drying effect (negative trends) increasing with the elevation. Notably, a simple linear regression proved to be effective to describe the stratification of change in the Greater Alpine Region and the Rocky Mountains, whereas more complex vertical patterns need to be considered for the Andes and the Tibetan Plateau. Mean precipitation, heavy ($$\ge$$
≥
10 mm) precipitation and the length of consecutive wet days show a consistent elevation-dependent stratification within each of the study areas, suggesting possible common driving mechanisms.
Experiences of patients with endometriosis with a digital health application: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Zugaj Marco Richard , Germeyer Ariane , Kranz Karina , Züger Andrea , Keßler Jens
Published: July 2024

Background

Endometriosis is a frequent disease in women of reproductive age in which the endometrium occurs outside the uterine cavity. Multimodal treatment approaches are necessary due to loss of quality of life and the chronic nature of the disease. Digital health applications (DiGa) are becoming increasingly important. This research project investigates how a healthcare app can influence the subjective experience of illness in patients with endometriosis.

Methods

Empiric data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was carried out using qualitative focussed interview analysis. Reliability was ensured by joint interdisciplinary and interprofessional evaluation of the interviews by experts and those affected.

Results

Ten patients with endometriosis and the prescribed healthcare app Endo-App© were examined. Categories were defined from the superordinate categories “Factors influencing the experience of illness” and “Evaluation of the app”. The app provided reliable information, promoted self-efficacy through exercises and strengthened the perception of the individuality of the illness. It helped to minimise nocebo effects from internet research and enabled a positive change of perspective. Patients criticised the time required for data input and had data protection concerns. The educational elements were often seen as redundant. Some patients only used the app briefly, or not at all.

Conclusion

Once a DiGa has been prescribed, it may be useful to explain its use on an outpatient basis and validate regular use. Blind re-prescribing of DiGas should be avoided. Younger patients with a recent diagnosis or patients following rehabilitation may benefit more from prescribing.
The impact of tinnitus on speech perception in noise: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Madhukesh Sanjana , Palaniswamy Hari Prakash , Ganapathy Kanaka , Rajashekhar Bellur , Nisha Kavassery Venkateswaran
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Tinnitus is a condition that causes people to hear sounds without an external source. One significant issue arising from this condition is the difficulty in communicating, especially in the presence of noisy backgrounds. The process of understanding speech in challenging situations requires both cognitive and auditory abilities. Since tinnitus presents unique challenges, it is important to investigate how it affects speech perception in noise.

Method

In this review, 32 articles were investigated to determine the effect of tinnitus on the effect of speech in noise perception performance. Based on the meta-analysis performed using a random-effects model, meta-regression was used to explore the moderating effects of age and hearing acuity.

Results

A total of 32 studies were reviewed, and the results of the meta-analysis revealed that tinnitus significantly impacts speech in terms of noise perception performance. Additionally, the regression analysis revealed that age and hearing acuity are not significant predictors of speech in noise perception.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that tinnitus affects speech perception in noisy environments due to cognitive impairments and central auditory processing deficits. Hearing loss and aging also contribute to reduced speech in noise performance. Interventions and further research are necessary to address individual challenges associated with continuous subjective tinnitus.
Diagnostic accuracy and confounders of vagus nerve ultrasound in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—a single-center case series and pooled individual patient data meta-analysis
Authors: Müller Katharina J. , Schmidbauer Moritz L. , Schönecker Sonja , Kamm Katharina , Pelz Johann O. , Holzapfel Korbinian , Papadopoulou Marianna , Bakola Eleni , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Naumann Markus , Hermann Andreas , Walter Uwe , Dimitriadis Konstantinos , Reilich Peter , Schöberl Florian
Published: July 2024

Background

Several single-center studies proposed utility of vagus nerve (VN) ultrasound for detecting disease severity, autonomic dysfunction, and bulbar phenotype in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the resulting body of literature shows opposing results, leaving considerable uncertainty on the clinical benefits of VN ultrasound in ALS.

Methods

Relevant studies were identified up to 04/2024 and individual patient data (IPD) obtained from the respective authors were pooled with a so far unpublished cohort (from Munich). An IPD meta-analysis of 109 patients with probable or definite ALS (El Escorial criteria) and available VN cross-sectional area (CSA) was performed, with age, sex, ALS Functional Rating Scale-revised (ALSFRS-R), disease duration, and bulbar phenotype as independent variables.

Results

Mean age was 65 years (± 12) and 47% of patients (± 12) had bulbar ALS. Mean ALSFRS-R was 38 (± 7), and mean duration was 18 months (± 18). VN atrophy was highly prevalent [left: 67% (± 5), mean CSA 1.6mm2 (± 0.6); right: 78% (± 21), mean CSA 1.8 mm2 (± 0.7)]. VN CSA correlated with disease duration (mean slope: left − 0.01; right − 0.01), but not with ALSFRS-R (mean slope: left 0.004; mean slope: right − 0.002). Test accuracy for phenotyping bulbar vs. non-bulbar ALS was poor (summary receiver operating characteristic area under the curve: left 0.496; right 0.572).

Conclusion

VN atrophy in ALS is highly prevalent and correlates with disease duration, but not with ALSFRS-R. VN CSA is insufficient to differentiate bulbar from non-bulbar ALS phenotypes. Further studies are warranted to analyze the link between VN atrophy, autonomic impairment, and survival in ALS.
Critical evaluation and recalculation of current systematic reviews with meta-analysis on the effects of acute and chronic stretching on passive properties and passive peak torque
Authors: Warneke Konstantin , Lohmann Lars Hubertus , Plöschberger Gerit , Konrad Andreas
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Muscle, tendon, and muscle–tendon unit (MTU) stiffness as well as passive peak torque (PPT) or delayed stretching pain sensation are typical explanatory approaches for stretching adaptations. However, in literature, differences in the study inclusion, as well as applying meta-analytical models without accounting for intrastudy dependency of multiple and heteroscedasticity of data bias the current evidence. Furthermore, most of the recent analyses neglected to investigate PPT adaptations and further moderators.

Methods

The presented review used the recommended meta-analytical calculation method to investigate the effects of stretching on stiffness as well as on passive torque parameters using subgroup analyses for stretching types, stretching duration, and supervision.

Results

Chronic stretching reduced muscle stiffness ( −  0.38, p = 0.01) overall, and also for the supervised ( −  0.49, p = 0.004) and long static stretching interventions ( −  0.61, p < 0.001), while the unsupervised and short duration subgroups did not reach the level of significance (p = 0.21, 0.29). No effects were observed for tendon stiffness or for subgroups (e.g., long-stretching durations). Chronic PPT (0.55, p = 0.005) in end ROM increased. Only long-stretching durations sufficiently decreased muscle stiffness acutely. No effects could be observed for acute PPT.

Conclusion

While partially in accordance with previous literature, the results underline the relevance of long-stretching durations when inducing changes in passive properties. Only four acute PPT in end ROM studies were eligible, while a large number were excluded as they provided mathematical models and/or lacked control conditions, calling for further randomized controlled trials on acute PPT effects.
Genome-wide SNPs and candidate genes underlying the genetic variations for protein and amino acids in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) germplasm
Authors: Singh Satbeer , Yadav Chandra Bhan , Lubanga Nelson , Hegarty Matthew , Yadav Rattan S.
Published: July 2024

Main conclusion

A total of 544 significant marker-trait associations and 286 candidate genes associated with total protein and 18 amino acids were identified. Thirty-three candidate genes were found near the strong marker trait associations (– log10P ≥ 5.5).

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) is largely grown as a subsistence crop in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. It serves as a major source of daily protein intake in these regions. Despite its importance, no systematic effort has been made to study the genetic variations of protein and amino acid content in pearl millet germplasm. The present study was undertaken to dissect the global genetic variations of total protein and 18 essential and non-essential amino acids in pearl millet, using a set of 435 K Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) and 161 genotypes of the Pearl Millet Inbred Germplasm Association Panel (PMiGAP). A total of 544 significant marker-trait associations (at P < 0.0001; – log10P ≥ 4) were detected and 23 strong marker-trait associations were identified using Bonferroni’s correction method. Forty-eight pleiotropic loci were found in the genome for the studied traits. In total, 286 candidate genes associated with total protein and 18 amino acids were identified. Thirty-three candidate genes were found near strongly associated SNPs. The associated markers and the candidate genes provide an insight into the genetic architecture of the traits studied and are going to be useful in breeding improved pearl millet varieties in the future. Availabilities of improved pearl millet varieties possessing higher protein and amino acid compositions will help combat the rising malnutrition problem via diet.
ETV6::ABL1 fusion: from overlooked minor clone in myeloproliferative neoplasm to major player in leukemic transformation
Authors: Lee Hyun-Woo , Park Min-Seung , Kim Boram , Jung Chul Won , Kim Hee-Jin , Kim Hyun-Young
Published: July 2024

The ETV6::ABL1 fusion defines a subgroup of myeloid/lymphoid neoplasms with eosinophilia and tyrosine kinase gene fusions. We report a case of extramedullary involvement and leukemic transformation in myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN), where ETV6::ABL1 was initially overlooked but later detected in the blast phase. ETV6::ABL1 burden was very low during the MPN phase but increased substantially during the blast phase. This correlation between ETV6::ABL1 burden and disease phenotype indicated that an immature leukemic clone is the sole carrier of ETV6::ABL1, suggesting that ETV6::ABL1 is not the primary driver of the MPN phase. Moreover, only the blast phase revealed somatic mutations in RUNX1 and STAG2, or complex karyotype, while the MPN phase revealed no molecular and cytogenetic abnormalities. Therefore, it remains uncertain whether the small clone of ETV6::ABL1 influenced the manifestation of MPN or if another underlying driver was responsible for the MPN phase, necessitating further research.
Gain-of-function variants in GSDME cause pyroptosis and apoptosis associated with post-lingual hearing loss
Authors: Xiao Yun , Chen Lei , Xu Kaifan , Zhou Meijuan , Han Yuechen , Luo Jianfen , Ai Yu , Wang Mingming , Jin Yu , Qiao Ruifeng , Kong Shuhui , Fan Zhaomin , Xu Lei , Wang Haibo
Published: July 2024

Gasdermin E (GSDME), a member of the gasdermin protein family, is associated with post-lingual hearing loss. All GSDME pathogenic mutations lead to skipping exon 8; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying hearing loss caused by GSDME mutants remain unclear. GSDME was recently identified as one of the mediators of programmed cell death, including apoptosis and pyroptosis. Therefore, in this study, we injected mice with GSDME mutant (MT) and examined the expression levels to assess its effect on hearing impairment. We observed loss of hair cells in the organ of Corti and spiral ganglion neurons. Further, the N-terminal release from the GSDME mutant in HEI-OC1 cells caused pyroptosis, characterized by cell swelling and rupture of the plasma membrane, releasing lactate dehydrogenase and cytokines such as interleukin-1β. We also observed that the N-terminal release from GSDME mutants could permeabilize the mitochondrial membrane, releasing cytochromes and activating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, thereby generating possible positive feedback on the cleavage of GSDME. Furthermore, we found that treatment with disulfiram or dimethyl fumarate might inhibit pyroptosis and apoptosis by inhibiting the release of GSDME-N from GSDME mutants. In conclusion, this study elucidated the molecular mechanism associated with hearing loss caused by GSDME gene mutations, offering novel insights for potential treatment strategies.
Effects of ash dieback on leaf physiology and leaf morphology of Fraxinus excelsior L.
Authors: Buchner Lisa , Eisen Anna-Katharina , Jochner-Oette Susanne
Published: July 2024

Key message

Ash dieback causes alterations in leaf physiology and morphology, particularly affecting the specific leaf area, which can be used to discriminate between different degrees of damage.

Since the introduction of the invasive fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus fraxineus in Europe, the European common ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.) has been threatened by ash dieback. An infection leads, for example, to typical symptoms of dying shoots, but changes of leaf physiology and morphology are still largely unexplored. Therefore, five physiological and morphological traits, chlorophyll content, chlorophyll fluorescence, specific leaf area, leaf thickness, and fluctuating asymmetry, were investigated in four different study sites in southern Germany regarding possible changes due to ash dieback and their relationship to different degrees of damage. Both higher and lower levels of chlorophyll with increasing damage due to ash dieback were observed. Chlorophyll fluorescence and fluctuating asymmetry proved to be less suitable indicators of damage. Leaf thickness showed the tendency (however not significant) of an increase in more severely damaged trees. The specific leaf area was identified as a suitable indicator of the damage severity, with significant smaller values in less healthy trees. Therefore, ash dieback can also result in notable alterations in leaf physiology and morphology.
Prevention of taxane chemotherapy-induced nail changes and peripheral neuropathy by application of extremity cooling: a prospective single-centre study with intrapatient comparison
Authors: Johnson Kristen , Stoffel Barbara , Schwitter Michael , Hayoz Stefanie , Rojas Mora Alfonso , Fischer Maranta Angela , El Saadany Tämer , Hasler Ursula , von Moos Roger , Patzen Annalea , Mark Michael , Roberts Gillian , Cathomas Richard
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Common side effects of taxane chemotherapy are nail toxicity and peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) causing severe impact on the quality of life. Different methods of cryotherapy to prevent these side effects have been tested. We investigated the use of machine-controlled cooling of hands and feet to reduce nail toxicity and CIPN in patients receiving taxane chemotherapy.

Methods

Patients receiving Docetaxel (planned dose $$\ge$$
≥
300 mg/m2) or Paclitaxel (planned dose $$\ge$$
≥
720 mg/m2$$-$$
-
) in the adjuvant or palliative setting of different cancers were included. The dominant hand and foot were cooled to approximately 10 °C using the Hilotherapy machine. The contralateral hand and foot were used as intrapatient comparison. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of any CIPN due to paclitaxel or nail toxicity due to Docetaxel. Both the intention to treat population (ITT) and the per protocol population (PPP) were analyzed.

Results

A total of 69 patients, 21 treated with Docetaxel and 48 with Paclitaxel, were included at our centre between 08/2020 and 08/2022. Nail toxicity due to Docetaxel was overall not significantly improved by cooling in the ITT or PPP but a significant benefit across visits was found for the ITT. CIPN due to Paclitaxel was numerically better in the ITT and significantly better in the PPP. A significant benefit of cooling on CIPN occurrence across visits was found for the ITT and the PPP. Cooling was very well tolerated.

Conclusion

Cooling of hands and feet has a clinically meaningful impact on reducing occurrence of CIPN and nail toxicity on treatment with taxanes. Effects are more significant over time and are dose dependent.

Trial registration number.

2020–00381.

Date of registration.

24th February 2020.
Mathematical modeling of neuron model through fractal-fractional differentiation based on maxwell electromagnetic induction: application to neurodynamics
Authors: Abro Kashif Ali , Atangana Abdon
Published: July 2024

The electrical activities of the reliable neuron models have different responses within intrinsic biophysical effects and can functionalize for asymmetric coexisting electrical activities under anti-monotonicity phenomenon. This manuscript presents mathematical analysis of neuron model based on Maxwell electromagnetic induction through newly proposed fractal-fractional differential and integral operators. The neuron model based on Maxwell electromagnetic induction changes with time along a fractal dimension that describes the cumulative chaotic phenomenon. The cumulative chaotic phenomenon of neuron model is mathematically modeled via exponential and Mittag–Leffler kernels with variable and fixed fractal and fractional orders. In order to exhibit fractal properties and memory effects, the neuron model is discretized by means of Adams–Bashforth-Moulton method that allows explicitly to compute the approximate solution of neuron model. The comparison of neuron model based on memory effect and fractal dimension have distinguished the evolution of neuron model at (i) variability of fractal order with fixed fractional order, (ii) variability of fractional order with fixed fractal order, and (iii) variability of fractal order as well fractional order.
Predicting grout’s uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) for fully grouted rock bolting system by applying ensemble machine learning techniques
Authors: Hosseini Shahab , Entezam Shima , Jodeiri Shokri Behshad , Mirzaghorbanali Ali , Nourizadeh Hadi , Motallebiyan Amin , Entezam Alireza , McDougall Kevin , Karunasena Warna , Aziz Naj
Published: July 2024

This study proposes a novel system for accurately predicting grout’s uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) in fully grouted rock bolting systems. To achieve this, a database comprising 73 UCS values with varying water-to-grout (W/G) ratios ranging from 22 to 42%, curing times from 1 to 28 days, the admixture of fly ash contents ranging from 0 to 30%, and two Australian commercial grouts, Stratabinder HS, and BU-100, was built after conducting comprehensive series of experimental tests. After building the dataset, a metaheuristic technique, the jellyfish search (JS) algorithm was employed to determine the weight of base models in the ensemble system. This system combined various data and modelling techniques to enhance the accuracy of the UCS predictions. What sets this technique apart is the comprehensive database and the innovative use of the JS algorithm to create a weighted averaging ensemble model, going beyond traditional methods for predicting grout strength. The proposed ensemble model was called the weighted averaging ensemble model (WAE-JS), in which the obtained results of several soft computing models such as multi-layer perceptron (MLP), Bayesian regularized (BR) neural networks, generalized feed-forward (GFF) neural networks, classification and regression tree (CART), and random forest (RF) were weighted based on JS and the new results were then generated. Eventually, the result of WAE-JS was compared to other models, including MLP, BR, GFF, CART, and RF, based on some statistical parameters, such as R-squared coefficients, RMSE, and VAF as indices for evaluating the performance and capability of the proposed model. The results suggested the superiority of the ensemble WAE-JS system over the base models. In addition, the proposed WAE-JS model effectively improved the predicting accuracy achieved from the MLP, BR, GFF, CART, and RF. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis revealed that the W/G had the most significant impact on the grout’s UCS values.
Modulable 3D-printed plantibody-laden platform enabling microscale affinity extraction and ratiometric front-face fluorescence detection of microcystin-LR in marine waters
Authors: Payà-Pou Roser , Aguirre-Camacho Julia , Simó-Alfonso Ernesto Francisco , Knopp Dietmar , Miró Manuel , Carrasco-Correa Enrique Javier
Published: July 2024

A 3D-printed stereolithographic platform for selective biorecognition is designed to enable convective microscale affinity extraction of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) followed by direct solid-phase optosensing exploiting ratiometric front-face fluorescence spectroscopy. For this purpose, a recombinant monoclonal plantibody (recAb) is covalently attached to a 3D-printed structure for sorptive immunoextraction, whereupon the free and unbound primary amino moieties of the recAb are derivatized with a fluorescent probe. The fluorophore-recAb-MC-LR laden device is then accommodated in the cuvette holder of a conventional fluorometer without any instrumental modification for the recording of the solid-phase fluorescence emission. Using Rodbard’s four-parameter sigmoidal function, the 3D-printed bioselective platform features a limit of detection (LOD) of 28 ng L−1 using a sample volume of 500 mL, device-to-device reproducibility down to 12%, and relative recoveries ranging from 91 to 100% in marine waters. Printed prototypes are affordable, just 0.4 € per print and ≤ 10 € per device containing recAb. One of the main assets of the miniaturized immunoextraction device is that it performs comparably well in terms of analytical figures of merit with costly mass spectrometric-based analytical methodologies, such as HPLC–MS/MS. The device is readily applicable to high-matrix samples, such as seawater, as opposed to previous biosensing platforms, just applied to freshwater systems.

Graphical abstract
Neuronavigation assisted percutaneous balloon compression of the gasserian ganglion for trigeminal neuralgia. How I do it
Authors: Rochat P. , Springborg J. B. , Birkeland P. , Agerlin N.
Published: July 2024

Background

Surgical treatment for trigeminal neuralgia includes percutaneous techniques, including balloon compression, first described in 1983 by Mullan and Lichtor (J Neurosurg 59(6):1007–1012, 6).

Method

Here we present a safe and simple navigation-assisted percutaneous technique for balloon compression, which can also be used for glycerol injection.

Conclusion

The navigation-assisted percutaneous technique for balloon compression for trigeminal neuralgia is a quick and safe treatment for patients not candidates for microvascular decompression.
CFD-DEM modelling of particle entrainment in wheel–rail interface: a parametric study on train characteristics
Authors: Maramizonouz Sadaf , Nadimi Sadegh , Lewis Roger
Published: July 2024

Rail-sanding is employed to improve the train’s wheel–rail traction loss in low adhesion conditions. This can significantly impede trains’ kinematics, operation, and performance by hindering the train’s acceleration and deceleration, resulting in delays and unreliability of transport system as well as causing safety risks and in the worst cases train collisions. Rail-sanding has its own merits in recovering the wheel–rail traction but can result in a sand wastage of more than 80% due to its low sand entrainment efficiency. In this research, computational fluid dynamics is coupled to discrete element modelling to study the behaviour of sand particles during rail-sanding. A parametric study based on the train characteristics, including train velocity, sand flow rate, and the geometry of the sander nozzle, is performed by comparing the entrainment efficiency of the sand particles. It is found that train velocities over 30 m/s result in the entrainment efficiency of almost zero. A moving air layer generated at the wheel–rail interface influences the lower bound of acceptable particle size range. The flow rate and nozzle geometry can be designed to enhance entrainment efficiency.
The impact of inorganic fillers, organic content, and polymerization mode on the degree of conversion of monomers in resin-matrix cements for restorative dentistry: a scoping review
Authors: Santos Marcionilia , Fidalgo-Pereira Rita , Torres Orlanda , Carvalho Oscar , Henriques Bruno , Özcan Mutlu , Souza Júlio C. M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The main aim of the present study was to carry out a scoping review on the differences in degree of conversion of monomers regarding several types resin cements, indirect restorative materials, and light-curing procedures used in dentistry.

Method

A bibliographic review was performed on PubMed using the following search items: “degree of conversion” OR “filler” AND “resin cement” OR “inorganic cement” AND “organic” OR “radiopacity” OR “refractive” OR “transmittance” OR “type” AND “resin composite.” The search involved articles published in English language within the last thirteen years. A research question has been formulated following the PICO approach as follow: “How different is the degree of conversion of monomers comparing several types of resin-matrix cements?”.

Results

Within the 15 selected studies, 8 studies reported a high degree of conversion (DC) of the organic matrix ranging from 70 up to 90% while 7 studies showed lower DC values. Dual-cured resin-matrix cements revealed the highest mean values of DC, flexural strength, and hardness when compared with light- and self-polymerized ones. DC mean values of resin-matrix cements light-cured through a ceramic veneer with 0.4 mm thickness were higher (~ 83%) than those recorded for resin-matrix cements light-cured through a thicker ceramic layer of 1.5 mm (~ 77%).

Conclusions

The highest percentage of degree of conversion of monomers was reported for dual-cured resin-matrix cements and therefore both chemical and light-induced pathways promoted an enhanced polymerization of the material. Similar degree of conversion of the same resin-matrix cement were recorded when the prosthetic structure showed a low thickness. On thick prosthetic structures, translucent materials are required to allow the light transmission achieving the resin-matrix cement.

Clinical relevance

The chemical composition of resin-matrix cements and the light-curing mode can affect the polymerization of the organic matrix. Thus, physical properties of the materials can vary leading to early clinical failures at restorative interfaces. Thus, the analysis of the polymerization pathways of resin-matrix cements is significantly beneficial for the clinical performance of the restorative interfaces.
Comparison of methods to calculate groundwater recharge for karst aquifers under a Mediterranean climate
Authors: Hepach P , Bresinsky L , Sauter M , Livshitz Y , Engelhardt I
Published: July 2024

Karst aquifers can be particularly vulnerable to human activities and climate change due to their relatively high degree of connection with the surface. This study utilized an ensemble of event-based recharge calculation methods to address the problem of structural uncertainty for the example of the Western Mountain Aquifer (WMA), a Mediterranean karst aquifer located in Israel and the West Bank. Spatially distributed recharge estimates derived from the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and the process-based infiltration model (PIM) were compared to site-specific, empirical regression models. The SWAT and PIM mean annual recharge estimates ranged from 32–34.6% of precipitation, almost equating to the results of empirical regression models (32–36%). Future recharge predictions under the influence of climate change were quantified by parameterizing the SWAT and PIM methods with a downscaled regional climate model of Israel. SWAT predicts a 23% decrease in recharge by 2051–2070 relative to 1981–2001. In contrast, PIM shows a 9% decrease, possibly due to the representation of infiltration through preferential flow pathways and exclusion of surface runoff processes. These divergent projections underline key methodological differences in the representation of hydrological processes. Nevertheless, both methods effectively provided good estimates of groundwater recharge. The recharge rates estimated from the various methods were integrated into MODFLOW to assess their relative impacts on groundwater storage dynamics. The ensemble of MODFLOW projected groundwater storage outputs can provide guidance for sustainable groundwater management in the region.
The social and family evaluation (SAFE) scale for caregivers of individuals with disorders of consciousness: preliminary results
Authors: Magnani F. G. , Cacciatore M. , Barbadoro F. , Ippoliti C. , Sattin D. , Magliacano A. , Draghi F. , De Nisco A. , Hakiki B. , Cecchi F. , Spinola M. , Estraneo A. , Leonardi M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Caregivers’ involvement in the diagnostic and monitoring processes of the level of consciousness of patients with Disorders of Consciousness (DoC) is strongly encouraged by international guidelines, as current literature suggests a better chance to detect behavioural responses when caregivers are involved in clinical assessments. Since caregivers’ involvement during clinical assessments can be difficult, the Social And Family Evaluation (SAFE) scale has been recently proposed as a standardised tool that caregivers can autonomously use to collect their opinions about the level of consciousness of patients with DoC, based on the behaviours manifested by the patients in a given time-window.

Objective

Providing preliminary results concerning SAFE adoption.

Methods

22 patients with DoC were assessed through the Coma Recovery Scale-revised (CRS-r), while their caregivers filled-in the SAFE.

Results

The SAFE showed a very high internal consistency, very high test-retest reliability, and high criterion validity when correlated to the CRS-r total score. Moreover, in line with the literature, the SAFE allowed the detection of some behaviours indicative of a higher level of consciousness than those detected by clinicians through the CRS-r in more than half of the sample.

Conclusion

Overall, these preliminary data are promising for the adoption of the SAFE to collect the opinions of the caregivers about the level of consciousness of patients with DoC, especially in those settings where it would be otherwise difficult to monitor the patients, such as long-term care structures and at home, as a tool for telemedicine allowing the monitoring of patients in remote settings.
A randomized controlled trial of social media promotion in neurosurgical publishing
Authors: Vieli Moira , Battilana Bianca , Alamri Alex , Rabiei Katrin , Lippa Laura , Karekezi Claire , Kolias Angelos , Serra Carlo , Regli Luca , Mathiesen Tiit , Staartjes Victor E.
Published: July 2024

The importance of social media has seen a dramatic increase in recent times, but much about its influence in academia is still unknown. To date, no comparative studies analysing the effect of social media promotion on citation counts have been undertaken in neurosurgical publishing. We randomized 177 articles published in Acta Neurochirurgica from May to September 2020. The 89 articles in the intervention group received a standardized social media promotion through one post on our official Twitter/X account, whereas the 88 articles in the control group did not receive any social media promotion. Citation counts, website visits and PDF downloads were tracked at one and two years post-promotion. We found no significant difference in number of citations at one year post-promotion (Intervention: 1.85 ± 3.94 vs. Control: 2.67 ± 6.65, p = 0.322) or at two years (5.35 ± 7.39 vs. 7.09 ± 12.1, p = 0.249). Similarly, no difference was detected in website visits at one (587.46 ± 568.04 vs. 590.65 ± 636.25, p = 0.972) or two years (865.79 ± 855.80 vs. 896.31 ± 981.97, p = 0.826) and PDF downloads at one (183.40 ± 152.02 vs. 187.78 ± 199.01, p = 0.870) or two years (255.99 ± 218.97 vs. 260.97 ± 258.44, p = 0.890). In a randomized study, a structured promotion of general neurosurgical articles on Twitter/X did not significantly impact citation count, website visits, or PDF downloads compared to no social media promotion. Combined with published evidence to date, the impact of social media on citation counts in academic publishing ultimately remains unclear.
Effects of classical biocontrol agents on indigenous natural enemies: reproduction in pomegranate butterfly Deudorix livia eggs by native and imported parasitoids
Authors: Al-Riyami Abdulhamid , Hardy Ian C. W.
Published: July 2024

Exotic natural enemies that are imported to control a target pest may attack non-target species or disrupt the performance of other natural enemies of the target that are already present. We evaluate possible interactions between three parasitoid species, the nativeTelenomus nizwaensisand the importedTrichogramma brassicaeandTrichogramma evanescens, when presented withDeudorix liviahost eggs under high-density laboratory conditions.Deudorix liviais a butterfly which is an economically damaging pest in the Omani pomegranate agro-ecosystem. Most (73.5% overall) of the observed parasitism was byT. nizwaensis.It performed best when presented with host eggs in the absence of either of theTrichogrammaspecies. These imported species thus have some potential to disrupt suppression of the pest by the indigenous natural enemy under lower-density conditions in the field, and neither of them achieved high parasitism rates themselves (laboratory conditions:T. brassicae = 12.5%;T. evanescens = 18.5%; with no evidence for any parasitism of field-collected eggs). Future efforts in this agro-ecosystem would best be directed towards encouragingT. nizwaensis,rather than towards importation ofTrichogramma. Screening for negative effects of natural enemies on the pest suppression provided by other natural enemies is recommended.
Geological adaptive intelligent control of earth pressure balance shield machine based on deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Liu Xuanyu , Zhang Wenshuai , Shao Cheng , Wang Yudong , Cong Qiumei
Published: July 2024

Scientific and precise control of tunnelling parameters is of utmost importance during the construction of shield machines. Given the complexity of the working environment, manual operation is highly prone to causing safety accidents. Therefore, achieving intelligent control of the shield machine is crucial. Based on this, this paper proposes a geological adaptive intelligent control method of earth pressure balance shield machine using the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm as the framework, with Actor-Critic as the basis. Firstly, DDPG agent is constructed to replace the screw conveyor control system as the main body of strategy implementation. Secondly, an environmental model is established by utilizing the mechanism model between the sealed cabin pressure and the screw conveyor speed. The real-time sealed cabin pressure, target pressure, and pressure error serve as the state space, while the screw conveyor speed is used as the action space. A combined reward function is set based on safety and accuracy. Finally, the Actor network interacts with the environment under the supervision of the reward function and Critic network. Successful training is achieved when the cumulative reward value is maximized, resulting in the output of optimal control strategy. In this paper, the method dynamically regulates the screw conveyor speed by interacting with the geological environment, to realize the precise control of the sealed cabin pressure and ensure the dynamic balance between sealed cabin pressure and excavation face pressure. The test results show that this method has a good control effect on the sealed cabin pressure under various geological conditions, and can complete 72 kinds of soil transition tasks. It has strong soil adaptability and can respond well to the dynamic changes of soil conditions. This approach enhances the intelligence of the shield machine, mitigating inaccuracies attributed to human operation, which provides a guarantee of safe shield machine operation, whilst exhibiting valuable engineering applications.
Global overview of national regulations for antibiotic use in aquaculture production
Authors: Luthman Ola , Robb Dave H. F. , Henriksson Patrik J. G. , Jørgensen Peter S. , Troell Max
Published: July 2024

The intensification of aquaculture industries around the globe has led to increased susceptibility and exposure to diseases. To ensure the well-being of animals and the profitability of the industry, many aquaculture farms resort to antibiotic treatments. However, with the increasing presence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), it has become important to regulate and limit the use of antibiotics, especially in animal production and regarding the antibiotics that are deemed as critically important for human health by the World Health Organization (WHO). This review describes how AMR mitigation strategies have developed over time in international settings and how they relate to aquaculture. Furthermore, we analyzed how different countries and regions abide by these statutes, as well as the antibiotic standards from a selection of certification schemes. Our results show that the role of aquaculture has been inexplicitly addressed in international guidance documents and that there is a need to further increase the activities of aquaculture operations in combating AMR, with an emphasis on alternatives to antibiotic use. We also found that most countries and regions allow the highest priority-, or critically important antibiotics in aquaculture, which could have detrimental effects on animal, environmental, and public health. As a result, most countries fail to comply with the recommendations and standards set by international organizations and certification schemes.