bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Coastal Douglas Fir Growth Responses to Nitrogen Application Using Tree Ring Chronologies
Authors: Hember Robbie A. , Axelson Jodi N. , Jang Woongsoon
Published: December 2023

Dendrochronology is a technique that can be applied as a retrospective monitoring (RM) approach to evaluate the performance of nutrient application in forest ecosystems. Applying the RM approach across operations lacks experimental controls, which may adversely affect accuracy and precision of estimates due to greater mismatches in stand conditions between treated and untreated plots. To test the rigor of the RM approach, we collected increment cores of coastal Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii) at eight sites of an experiment where stands were fertilized in 1971. First, we tested the approach under ideal conditions by sampling from treated and untreated plots of the experiment. Second, we tested the approach using newly established surrogate control (SC) plots, which differed in ecological site classification from those of the treated plots to understand how robust the approach was to mismatches in conditions between treated and untreated samples. We hypothesized that detrending ring width would mitigate error in responses to nutrient application resulting from mismatches in site classification. Within the experiment, the approach indicated an average increase of 15% (5% to 26%, p < 0.05) growth response to operational doses of urea. Different responses were found when the analysis relied on SC plots. Detrending low-frequency variation in ring widths eliminated differences in results arising, at least in part, to mismatches in site class. However, it also reduced the growth response using the experimental control plots to 10%. Dendrochronology with detrending shows promise in the ability to mitigate variation introduced by mismatches in ecological site classification that may occur in operational monitoring. Based on these results, we see potential to implement RM with operations to evaluate and optimize stand selection criteria.
The Impact of Production Techniques on the Physicochemical Properties, Microbiological, and Consumer’s Acceptance of Milk and Water Kefir Grain-Based Beverages
Authors: Arapović Martina , Puljić Leona , Kajić Nikolina , Banožić Marija , Kartalović Brankica , Habschied Kristina , Mastanjević Krešimir
Published: December 2023

The increasing focus on a healthy lifestyle has emphasized a connection between gut microbiome and health. Consumers face the choice between consuming traditional dairy kefirs or more trendy fruit-based fermented drinks. Also, the aim of this study is to determine the similarities and differences theoretically and experimentally based on a higher ratio of grains to make a lower pH-based beverage at different inoculation times and durations. This study also aims to assess acceptability from a sensory perspective. The goal of the research was to make kefir grain-based beverages with a higher number of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) owing to their probiotic impact on the human gut. After analysis, it was found that there was the highest content of LAB in water kefir after 48 h of inoculation. However, consumer acceptance tests found traditional dairy kefir with a 24-h inoculation to be more acceptable. Although both drinks were inoculated in a 1:4 ratio, it is important to note the variations in grain origin as well as the initial composition of the milk–water suspension, which significantly affects the final product. Since the recipe of the kefir determines the benefits of the drink, the onus is on the consumers to decide which fermented drink suits their health condition best.
Mechanical Performance of Cementitious Materials Reinforced with Polyethylene Fibers and Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: AlAraj Rashad R. , Tamimi Adil K. , Hassan Noha M. , Fattah Kazi Parvez
Published: December 2023

The cracking of cementitious materials due to their quasi-brittle behavior is a major concern leading to a loss in strength and durability. To limit crack growth, researchers have incorporated microfibers in concrete mixes. The objective of this study is to determine if nano-reinforcements can arrest cracks and enhance the material performance in comparison to microfibers. A total of 28 specimens were prepared to investigate and compare the effects of incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as a nano-reinforcement and polyethylene (PE) fibers at a macro-level and their combination. Compressive and flexural strengths were experimentally tested to assess the mechanical performance. The microstructure of the mortar samples was also examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The ductility increased by almost 50% upon the addition of CNTs, while no significant enhancement was witnessed for the compressive strength. The flexural strength increased by 169% and the flexural strain by 389% through the addition of the combination of CNTs and PE fibers.
Microbial Conjugated Linolenic Acid-Enriched Fermented Milk Using Lipase-Hydrolyzed Flaxseed Oil: Biochemical, Organoleptic and Storage Traits
Authors: Fontes Ana Luiza , Pimentel Lígia L. , Monteiro Maria João P. , Domingues M. Rosário , Rodríguez-Alcalá Luis Miguel , Gomes Ana Maria
Published: December 2023

The bioactive conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) can be microbiologically produced by different probiotic strains when in the presence of α-linolenic acid (α-LNA). Food matrices are a good vector, such as has been previously demonstrated with fermented milk enriched with microbial CLNA by Bifidobacterium breve DSM 20091 from lipase-hydrolyzed flaxseed oil. The aim of the present work was to further assess the nutritional, biochemical and organoleptic properties of the developed dairy product, as well as its storage stability throughout 28 days at 4 °C, proving its suitability for consumption. Milk lactose hydrolyzed into glucose (0.89 g/100 g) and galactose (0.88 g/100 g), which were further metabolized into lactic (0.42 g/100 g), acetic (0.44 g/100 g) and propionic (0.85 g/100 g) acids. Titratable acidity reached 0.69% and pH 4.93. Compared with the control (no CLNA), fat content was slightly higher (2.0 g/100 g). Acetic acid was the major volatile (83.32%), lacking important dairy flavor contributors, like acetaldehyde. Sensory analysis revealed predominant astringency and bitterness. No microbial concerns arose during storage, but the CLNA content increased, and some saturated fatty acids seemed to oxidize. In conclusion, the CLNA-enriched fermented milk revealed reasonable compositional properties, yet further improvements are needed for optimal consumer acceptance and a prolonged shelf-life.
Heavy Tail and Long-Range Dependence for Skewed Time Series Prediction Based on a Fractional Weibull Process
Authors: Song Wanqing , Chen Dongdong , Zio Enrico
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a fractional Weibull process is utilized in a predictive stochastic differential equation model to allow for skewness and heavy-tailed characteristics. To this aim, a fractional Weibull process with non-Gaussian characteristics and a long memory effect is proposed to drive the predictive stochastic differential equation. The difference iterative forecasting model is proposed as its stochastic difference scheme. The consistency, stability, and convergence of the model are analyzed. In the proposed model, variational mode decomposition is utilized as the data preprocessing approach to separate the stationary and non-stationary components. Actual wind speed data and stock price data are employed in two separate case studies.
A Missense Mutation in the Collagen Triple Helix of EDA Is Associated with X-Linked Recessive Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia in Fleckvieh Cattle
Authors: Reinartz Sina , Weiß Christine , Heppelmann Maike , Hewicker-Trautwein Marion , Hellige Maren , Willen Laure , Feige Karsten , Schneider Pascal , Distl Ottmar
Published: December 2023

Mutations within the ectodysplasin A (EDA) gene have been associated with congenital hypotrichosis and anodontia (HAD/XHED) in humans, mice, dogs and cattle. We identified a three-generation family of Fleckvieh cattle with male calves exhibiting clinical and histopathological signs consistent with an X-linked recessive HAD (XHED). Whole genome and Sanger sequencing of cDNA showed a perfect association of the missense mutation g.85716041G>A (ss2019497443, rs1114816375) within the EDA gene with all three cases following an X-linked recessive inheritance, but normal EDAR and EDARADD. This mutation causes an exchange of glycine (G) with arginine (R) at amino acid position 227 (p.227G>R) in the second collagen triple helix repeat domain of EDA. The EDA variant was associated with a significant reduction and underdevelopment of hair follicles along with a reduced outgrowth of hairs, a complete loss of seromucous nasolabial and mucous tracheal and bronchial glands and a malformation of and reduction in number of teeth. Thermostability of EDA G227R was reduced, consistent with a relatively mild hair and tooth phenotype. However, incisors and canines were more severely affected in one of the calves, which correlated with the presence of a homozygous missense mutation of RNF111 (g.51306765T>G), a putative candidate gene possibly associated with tooth number in EDA-deficient Fleckvieh calves.
Seismic Fragility Analysis of Retaining Walls Dependent on Initial Conditions
Authors: Koutsoupaki Elisavet-Isavela , Sotiriadis Dimitris , Klimis Nikolaos , Dokas Ioannis
Published: December 2023

Fragility curves of retaining walls constitute an efficient tool for the estimation of seismic risk and can be utilized for prevention from potential damage or for immediate decision-making. In this work, fragility curves for cantilever retaining walls of three different heights are proposed, considering cohesionless soil materials. The seismic response of the soil-wall system, in terms of permanent vertical ground displacement of the backfill soil and permanent horizontal displacement of the wall’s base, is estimated by conducting non-linear time history analyses, through the 2D finite element simulation method. Five initial conditions are investigated regarding the value of the global factor of safety (FS) under static conditions. An initial value of FS equal to 1.5 is considered for dry conditions. If the presence of the water table is taken into account, the corresponding FS drops to values ranging from 1.4 to 1.1. Parameters that characterize seismic intensity are evaluated based on criteria, in order to identify the intensity measures that best correlate with the system’s response. Three damage states are adopted, corresponding to minor, moderate, and extensive damage. The approach of combined damage criteria is also investigated. Finally, fragility curves are derived demonstrating the degree of dependency on initial conditions.
Leachate Experiments to Evaluate Weathering of Waste Rock for Backfill Aquifers in Restored Coal Mine Pits, Powder River Basin, USA
Authors: Martin Julianna , Langman Jeff B.
Published: December 2023

Restoration of open-pit mines may utilize waste rock for landscape reconstruction, which can include the construction of backfill aquifers. Weathering and contaminant transport may be different in backfill aquifers compared to the surrounding aquifer because of newly available mineral surfaces and transportable nano- to micro-scale particles generated during mining. Waste rock from the Cordero Rojo open-pit coal mine in the Powder River Basin was exposed to benchtop leachate experiments for 20 weeks at temperatures of 5 °C and 20 °C. Collected leachate was analyzed for Eh, pH, specific conductance, alkalinity, and cation and anion concentrations as unfiltered and 0.45-μm and 0.2-μm filtered concentrations. During the experiment, leachate Eh and pH substantially varied during the first 55 days, which corresponds to a period of high specific conductance (>1000 µS/cm) and alkalinity (>200 mg/L). Correspondingly, anion and cation concentrations were the largest during this early weathering stage, and the filter fractions indicated multiple forms of transported elements. After this early weathering stage, column leachate evolved towards a weathering equilibrium of neutral, oxidizing, and low solute conditions indicated by positive Eh values, pH near 7, and specific conductance <500 μS/cm. This evolution was reflected in the decline and stabilization or non-detection of metal(loid) concentrations reflective of a shift to primarily bulk aluminosilicate weathering when coal- and salt-associated elements, such as arsenic, cadmium, and selenium, were not detected or at minimal concentrations. Over the course of the experiment, the solute trend of certain elements indicated particular weathering processes—cadmium and nanoparticle transport, selenium and salt dissolution, and arsenic and pyrite oxidation. The mining of overburden formations and use of the waste rock for backfill aquifers as part of landscape reconstruction will create newly available mineral surfaces and nanoparticles that will weather to produce solute concentrations not typically found in groundwater associated with the original overburden.
An Improved BLG Tree for Trajectory Compression with Constraints of Road Networks
Authors: Liu Minshi , Zhang Ling , Long Yi , Sun Yong , Zhao Mingwei
Published: December 2023

With the rising popularity of portable mobile positioning equipment, the volume of mobile trajectory data is increasing. Therefore, trajectory data compression has become an important basis for trajectory data processing, analysis, and mining. According to the literature, it is difficult with trajectory compression methods to balance compression accuracy and efficiency. Among these methods, the one based on spatiotemporal characteristics has low compression accuracy due to its failure to consider the relationship with the road network, while the one based on map matching has low compression efficiency because of the low efficiency of the original method. Therefore, this paper proposes a trajectory segmentation and ranking compression (TSRC) method based on the road network to improve trajectory compression precision and efficiency. The TSRC method first extracts feature points of a trajectory based on road network structural characteristics, splits the trajectory at the feature points, ranks the trajectory points of segmented sub-trajectories based on a binary line generalization (BLG) tree, and finally merges queuing feature points and sub-trajectory points and compresses trajectories. The TSRC method is verified on two taxi trajectory datasets with different levels of sampling frequency. Compared with the classic spatiotemporal compression method, the TSRC method has higher accuracy under different compression degrees and higher overall efficiency. Moreover, when the two methods are combined with the map-matching method, the TSRC method not only has higher accuracy but also can improve the efficiency of map matching.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Catalase (CAT) Gene Family and Expression Patterns in Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis) under Various Abiotic Stresses and Multiple Hormone Treatments
Authors: Yu Wencai , Kong Guanghong , Ya Huajin , He Ligang , Wu Yu , Zhang Hanyao
Published: December 2023

Catalase (CAT) is one of the key enzymes involved in antioxidant defense systems and mainly scavenges H2O2 and plays a vital role in plant growth, development, and various adverse stresses. To date, a systematic study of the CAT gene family in rubber tree has not been reported. In this study, five HbCAT gene family members were identified from the rubber tree genome, and these were mainly clustered into two subfamilies. Gene structure and motif analysis showed that exon-intron and motif patterns were conserved across different plant species. Sequence analysis revealed that HbCAT proteins contain one active catalytic site, one heme-ligand signature sequence, three conserved amino acid residues (His, Tyr, and Asn), and one peroxisome-targeting signal 1 (PTS1) sequence. Fragment duplication is a selection pressure for the evolution of the HbCAT family based on Ka/Ks values. Analysis of cis-acting elements in the promoters indicated that HbCAT gene expression might be regulated by abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), and MYB transcription factors; furthermore, these genes might be involved in plant growth, development, and abiotic stress responses. A tissue-specific expression analysis showed that HbCATs gradually increased with leaf development and were highly expressed in mature leaves. Gene expression profiling exhibited the differential expression of the HbCATs under cold, heat, drought, and NaCl stresses. Our results provide comprehensive information about the HbCAT gene family, laying the foundation for further research on its function in rubber tree.
Evaluation of the Expression and Localization of the Multifunctional Protein CacyBP/SIP and Elements of the MAPK Signaling Pathway in the Adrenal Glands of Rats with Primary and Secondary Hypertension
Authors: Smereczańska Magdalena , Domian Natalia , Młynarczyk Maryla , Pędzińska-Betiuk Anna , Kasacka Irena
Published: December 2023

Hypertension is a global civilization disease and one of the most common causes of death in the world. Organ dysfunction is a serious health consequence of hypertension, which involves damage to the heart, kidneys and adrenals. The interaction of recently discovered multifunctional protein-CacyBP/SIP with ERK1/2 and p38 kinases by regulating the activity and intracellular localization of these kinases may play an important role in the signaling pathways involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Due to the lack of data on this subject, we decided to investigate the localization, expression and possible relationship between the studied parameters in the adrenals under arterial hypertension. The study was conducted on the adrenals of rats with spontaneous and DOCA-salt hypertension. The expression of CacyBP/SIP, p-ERK1/2 and p-p38 was detected by immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR. The results show a statistically significant decrease in CacyBP/SIP expression in the adrenal glands of hypertensive rats. With ERK1/2, there was a decrease in cortical immunoreactivity and an increase in the adrenal medulla of primary hypertensive rats. In contrast, in the adrenals of DOCA-salt rats, ERK1/2 immunoreactivity increased in the cortex and decreased in the medulla. In turn, p38 expression was higher in the adrenal glands of rats with primary and secondary hypertension. The obtained results may suggest the involvement of CacyBP/SIP in the regulation of signaling pathways in which MAP kinases play an important role and provide new insight into molecular events in hypertension. Moreover, they show the participation of CacyBP/SIP in response to oxidative stress.
MRI/RNA-Seq-Based Radiogenomics and Artificial Intelligence for More Accurate Staging of Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Qureshi Touseef Ahmad , Chen Xingyu , Xie Yibin , Murakami Kaoru , Sakatani Toru , Kita Yuki , Kobayashi Takashi , Miyake Makito , Knott Simon R. V. , Li Debiao , Rosser Charles J. , Furuya Hideki
Published: December 2023

Accurate staging of bladder cancer assists in identifying optimal treatment (e.g., transurethral resection vs. radical cystectomy vs. bladder preservation). However, currently, about one-third of patients are over-staged and one-third are under-staged. There is a pressing need for a more accurate staging modality to evaluate patients with bladder cancer to assist clinical decision-making. We hypothesize that MRI/RNA-seq-based radiogenomics and artificial intelligence can more accurately stage bladder cancer. A total of 40 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and matched formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues were available for analysis. Twenty-eight (28) MRI and their matched FFPE tissues were available for training analysis, and 12 matched MRI and FFPE tissues were used for validation. FFPE samples were subjected to bulk RNA-seq, followed by bioinformatics analysis. In the radiomics, several hundred image-based features from bladder tumors in MRI were extracted and analyzed. Overall, the model obtained mean sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 94%, 88%, and 92%, respectively, in differentiating intra- vs. extra-bladder cancer. The proposed model demonstrated improvement in the three matrices by 17%, 33%, and 25% and 17%, 16%, and 17% as compared to the genetic- and radiomic-based models alone, respectively. The radiogenomics of bladder cancer provides insight into discriminative features capable of more accurately staging bladder cancer. Additional studies are underway.
Identification and Potential Participation of Lipases in Autophagic Body Degradation in Embryonic Axes of Lupin (Lupinus spp.) Germinating Seeds
Authors: Wleklik Karolina , Stefaniak Szymon , Nuc Katarzyna , Pietrowska-Borek Małgorzata , Borek Sławomir
Published: December 2023

Autophagy is a fundamental process for plants that plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis and promoting survival in response to various environmental stresses. One of the lesser-known stages of plant autophagy is the degradation of autophagic bodies in vacuoles. To this day, no plant vacuolar enzyme has been confirmed to be involved in this process. On the other hand, several enzymes have been described in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), including Atg15, that possess lipolytic activity. In this preliminary study, which was conducted on isolated embryonic axes of the white lupin (Lupinus albus L.) and Andean lupin (Lupinus mutabilis Sweet), the potential involvement of plant vacuolar lipases in the degradation of autophagic bodies was investigated. We identified in transcriptomes (using next-generation sequencing (NGS)) of white and Andean lupin embryonic axes 38 lipases with predicted vacuolar localization, and for three of them, similarities in amino acid sequences with yeast Atg15 were found. A comparative transcriptome analysis of lupin isolated embryonic axes cultured in vitro under different sucrose and asparagine nutrition, evaluating the relations in the levels of the transcripts of lipase genes, was also carried out. A clear decrease in lipase gene transcript levels caused by asparagine, a key amino acid in lupin seed metabolism which retards the degradation of autophagic bodies during sugar-starvation-induced autophagy in lupin embryonic axes, was detected. Although the question of whether lipases are involved in the degradation of autophagic bodies during plant autophagy is still open, our findings strongly support such a hypothesis.
Machine Learning and Single-Cell Analysis Identify Molecular Features of IPF-Associated Fibroblast Subtypes and Their Implications on IPF Prognosis
Authors: Hou Jiwei , Yang Yanru , Han Xin
Published: December 2023

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating lung disease of unknown cause, and the involvement of fibroblasts in its pathogenesis is well recognized. However, a comprehensive understanding of fibroblasts’ heterogeneity, their molecular characteristics, and their clinical relevance in IPF is lacking. In this study, we aimed to systematically classify fibroblast populations, uncover the molecular and biological features of fibroblast subtypes in fibrotic lung tissue, and establish an IPF-associated, fibroblast-related predictive model for IPF. Herein, a meticulous analysis of scRNA-seq data obtained from lung tissues of both normal and IPF patients was conducted to identify fibroblast subpopulations in fibrotic lung tissues. In addition, hdWGCNA was utilized to identify co-expressed gene modules associated with IPF-related fibroblasts. Furthermore, we explored the prognostic utility of signature genes for these IPF-related fibroblast subtypes using a machine learning-based approach. Two predominant fibroblast subpopulations, termed IPF-related fibroblasts, were identified in fibrotic lung tissues. Additionally, we identified co-expressed gene modules that are closely associated with IPF-fibroblasts by utilizing hdWGCNA. We identified gene signatures that hold promise as prognostic markers in IPF. Moreover, we constructed a predictive model specifically focused on IPF-fibroblasts which can be utilized to assess disease prognosis in IPF patients. These findings have the potential to improve disease prediction and facilitate targeted interventions for patients with IPF.
Integrated Amino Acids and Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Arginine Transporter SLC7A2 Is a Novel Regulator of Myogenic Differentiation
Authors: Huang Tiane , Zhou Jing , Wang Benhui , Wang Xiang , Xiao Wanli , Yang Mengqi , Liu Yan , Wang Qiquan , Xiang Yang , Lan Xinqiang
Published: December 2023

Skeletal muscle differentiation is a precisely coordinated process. While many of the molecular details of myogenesis have been investigated extensively, the dynamic changes and functions of amino acids and related transporters remain unknown. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of amino acid levels during different time points of C2C12 myoblast differentiation using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Our findings revealed that the levels of most amino acids exhibited an initial increase at the onset of differentiation, reaching their peak typically on the fourth or sixth day, followed by a decline on the eighth day. Particularly, arginine and branched-chain amino acids showed a prominent increase during this period. Furthermore, we used RNA-seq analysis to show that the gene encoding the arginine transporter, Slc7a2, is significantly upregulated during differentiation. Knockdown of Slc7a2 gene expression resulted in a significant decrease in myoblast proliferation and led to a reduction in the expression levels of crucial myogenic regulatory factors, hindering the process of myoblast differentiation, fusion, and subsequent myotube formation. Lastly, we assessed the expression level of Slc7a2 during aging in humans and mice and found an upregulation of Slc7a2 expression during the aging process. These findings collectively suggest that the arginine transporter SLC7A2 plays a critical role in facilitating skeletal muscle differentiation and may hold potential as a therapeutic target for sarcopenia.
Limbic System Response to Psilocybin and Ketamine Administration in Rats: A Neurochemical and Behavioral Study
Authors: Wojtas Adam , Bysiek Agnieszka , Wawrzczak-Bargiela Agnieszka , Maćkowiak Marzena , Gołembiowska Krystyna
Published: December 2023

The pathophysiology of depression is related to the reduced volume of the hippocampus and amygdala and hypertrophy of the nucleus accumbens. The mechanism of these changes is not well understood; however, clinical studies have shown that the administration of the fast-acting antidepressant ketamine reversed the decrease in hippocampus and amygdala volume in depressed patients, and the magnitude of this effect correlated with the reduction in depressive symptoms. In the present study, we attempted to find out whether the psychedelic substance psilocybin affects neurotransmission in the limbic system in comparison to ketamine. Psilocybin and ketamine increased the release of dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) in the nucleus accumbens of naive rats as demonstrated using microdialysis. Both drugs influenced glutamate and GABA release in the nucleus accumbens, hippocampus and amygdala and increased ACh levels in the hippocampus. The changes in D2, 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptor density in the nucleus accumbens and hippocampus were observed as a long-lasting effect. A marked anxiolytic effect of psilocybin in the acute phase and 24 h post-treatment was shown in the open field test. These data provide the neurobiological background for psilocybin’s effect on stress, anxiety and structural changes in the limbic system and translate into the antidepressant effect of psilocybin in depressed patients.
Bismuth Shielding in Head Computed Tomography—Still Necessary?
Authors: Di Rosso Jana , Krasser Andreas , Tschauner Sebastian , Guss Helmuth , Sorantin Erich
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Cranial CT scans are associated with radiation exposure to the eye lens, which is a particularly radiosensitive organ. Children are more vulnerable to radiation than adults. Therefore, it is essential to use the available dose reduction techniques to minimize radiation exposure. According to the European Consensus on patient contact shielding by the IRCP from 2021, shielding is not recommended in most body areas anymore. This study aims to evaluate whether bismuth shielding as well as its combination with other dose-saving technologies could still be useful. Methods: Cranial CT scans of a pediatric anthropomorphic phantom were performed on two up-to-date MDCT scanners. Eye lens dose measurements were performed using thermoluminescent dosimeters. Furthermore, the impact of BS and of the additional placement of standoff foam between the patient and BS on image quality was also assessed. Results: Bismuth shielding showed a significant lens dose reduction in both CT scanners (GE: 41.50 ± 4.04%, p < 0.001; Siemens: 29.75 ± 6.55%, p = 0.00). When combined with AEC, the dose was lowered even more (GE: 60.75 ± 3.30%, p < 0.001; Siemens: 41.25 ± 8.02%, p = 0.00). The highest eye dose reduction was achieved using BS + AEC + OBTCM (GE: 71.25 ± 2.98%, p < 0.001; Siemens: 58.75 ± 5.85%, p < 0.001). BS caused increased image noise in the orbital region, which could be mitigated by foam placement. Eye shielding had no effect on the image noise in the cranium. Conclusions: The use of BS in cranial CT can lead to a significant dose reduction, which can be further enhanced by its combination with other modern dose reduction methods. BS causes increase in image noise in the orbital region but not in the cranium. The additional use of standoff foam reduces image noise in the orbital region.
Stroke in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: Epidemiology, Screening, and Prognosis
Authors: Suomalainen Olli Pekka , Martinez-Majander Nicolas , Broman Jenna , Mannismäki Laura , Aro Aapo , Curtze Sami , Pakarinen Sami , Lehto Mika , Putaala Jukka
Published: December 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrythmia and one of the strongest risk factors and causal mechanisms of ischemic stroke (IS). Acute IS due to AF tends to be more severe than with other etiology of IS and patients with treated AF have reported to experience worse outcomes after endovascular treatment compared with patients without AF. As cardioembolism accounts for more than a fifth of ISs and the risk of future stroke can be mitigated with effective anticoagulation, which has been shown to be effective and safe in patients with paroxysmal or sustained AF, the screening of patients with cryptogenic IS (CIS) for AF is paramount. Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) is a subtype of CIS with a high likelihood of cardioembolism. The European Stroke Organization and European Society of Cardiology guidelines recommend at least 72 h of screening when AF is suspected. The longer the screening and the earlier the time point after acute IS, the more likely the AF paroxysm is found. Several methods are available for short-term screening of AF, including in-hospital monitoring and wearable electrocardiogram recorders for home monitoring. Implantable loop monitors provide an effective long-term method to screen patients with high risk of AF after IS and artificial intelligence and convolutional neural networks may enhance the efficacy of AF screening in the future. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are preferred over vitamin K antagonists in both primary and secondary prevention of IS in AF patients. Recent data from the randomized controlled trials (RCT) also suggest that early initiation of DOAC treatment after acute IS is safe compared to later initiation. Anticoagulation treatment may still predispose for intracranial bleeding, particularly among patients with prior cerebrovascular events. Left atrial appendix closure offers an optional treatment choice for patients with prior intracranial hemorrhage and may offer an alternative to oral anticoagulation even for patients with IS, but these indications await validation in ongoing RCTs. There are still controversies related to the association of found AF paroxysms in CIS patients with prolonged screening, pertaining to the optimal duration of screening and screening strategies with prolonged monitoring techniques in patients with ESUS. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of epidemiology, screening, and prognosis in AF patients with stroke.
Clean Intermittent Catheterization in Children under 12 Years Does Not Have a Negative Impact on Long-Term Graft Survival following Pediatric Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Marcou Marios , Galiano Matthias , Tzschoppe Anja , Sauerstein Katja , Wach Sven , Taubert Helge , Wullich Bernd , Hirsch-Koch Karin , Apel Hendrik
Published: December 2023

Background: Congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract (CAKUTs) are one of the most prevalent primary causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in young children, and approximately one-third of these children present with lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD). Many children with LUTD require therapy with clean intermittent catheterization (CIC). CIC commonly leads to bacteriuria, and considerations have arisen regarding whether CIC in immunosuppressed children is safe or whether repeated febrile urinary tract infections (UTIs) may lead to the deterioration of kidney graft function. Material and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all cases of primary kidney transplantation performed in our center between 2001 and 2020 in recipients aged less than twelve years. The number of episodes of febrile UTIs as well as the long-term kidney graft survival of children undergoing CIC were compared to those of children with urological causes of ESRD not undergoing CIC, as well as to those of children with nonurological causes of ESRD. Results: Following successful kidney transplantation in 41 children, CIC was needed in 8 of these patients. These 8 children undergoing CIC had significantly more episodes of febrile UTIs than did the 18 children with a nonurological cause of ESRD (p = 0.04) but not the 15 children with a urological cause of ESRD who did not need to undergo CIC (p = 0.19). Despite being associated with a higher rate of febrile UTIs, CIC was not identified as a risk factor for long-term kidney graft survival, and long-term graft survival did not significantly differ between the three groups at a median follow-up of 124 months. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that, under regular medical care, CIC following pediatric transplantation is safe and is not associated with a higher rate of long-term graft loss.
The Impact of Postoperative Pulmonary Complications on Perioperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Pneumonectomy: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study of the German Thorax Registry
Authors: Semmelmann Axel , Baar Wolfgang , Fellmann Nadja , Moneke Isabelle , Loop Torsten
Published: December 2023

Postoperative pulmonary complications have a deleterious impact in regards to thoracic surgery. Pneumonectomy is associated with the highest perioperative risk in elective thoracic surgery. The data from 152 patients undergoing pneumonectomy in this multicenter retrospective study were extracted from the German Thorax Registry database and presented after univariate and multivariate statistical processing. This retrospective study investigated the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) and their impact on perioperative morbidity and mortality. Patient-specific, preoperative, procedural, and postoperative risk factors for PPCs and in-hospital mortality were analyzed. A total of 32 (21%) patients exhibited one or more PPCs, and 11 (7%) died during the hospital stay. Multivariate stepwise logistic regression identified a preoperative FEV1 < 50% (OR 9.1, 95% CI 1.9–67), the presence of medical complications (OR 7.4, 95% CI 2.7–16.2), and an ICU stay of more than 2 days (OR 14, 95% CI 3.9–59) as independent factors associated with PPCs. PPCs (OR 13, 95% CI 3.2–52), a preoperative FEV1 < 60% in patients with previous pulmonary infection (OR 21, 95% CI 3.2–52), and continued postoperative mechanical ventilation (OR 8.4, 95% CI 2–34) were independent factors for in-hospital mortality. Our data emphasizes that PPCs are a significant risk factor for morbidity and mortality after pneumonectomy. Intensified perioperative care targeting the underlying risk factors and effects of PPCs, postoperative ventilation, and preoperative respiratory infections, especially in patients with reduced pulmonary reserve, could improve patient outcomes.
In-Advance Prediction of Pressure Ulcers via Deep-Learning-Based Robust Missing Value Imputation on Real-Time Intensive Care Variables
Authors: Kim Minkyu , Kim Tae-Hoon , Kim Dowon , Lee Donghoon , Kim Dohyun , Heo Jeongwon , Kang Seonguk , Ha Taejun , Kim Jinju , Moon Da Hye , Heo Yeonjeong , Kim Woo Jin , Lee Seung-Joon , Kim Yoon , Park Sang Won , Han Seon-Sook , Choi Hyun-Soo
Published: December 2023

Pressure ulcers (PUs) are a prevalent skin disease affecting patients with impaired mobility and in high-risk groups. These ulcers increase patients’ suffering, medical expenses, and burden on medical staff. This study introduces a clinical decision support system and verifies it for predicting real-time PU occurrences within the intensive care unit (ICU) by using MIMIC-IV and in-house ICU data. We develop various machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models for predicting PU occurrences in real time using the MIMIC-IV and validate using the MIMIC-IV and Kangwon National University Hospital (KNUH) dataset. To address the challenge of missing values in time series, we propose a novel recurrent neural network model, GRU-D++. This model outperformed other experimental models by achieving the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.945 for the on-time prediction and AUROC of 0.912 for 48h in-advance prediction. Furthermore, in the external validation with the KNUH dataset, the fine-tuned GRU-D++ model demonstrated superior performances, achieving an AUROC of 0.898 for on-time prediction and an AUROC of 0.897 for 48h in-advance prediction. The proposed GRU-D++, designed to consider temporal information and missing values, stands out for its predictive accuracy. Our findings suggest that this model can significantly alleviate the workload of medical staff and prevent the worsening of patient conditions by enabling timely interventions for PUs in the ICU.
Comparing the Effects of Multicomponent and Concurrent Exercise Protocols on Muscle Strength in Older Adults
Authors: Rodrigues Filipe , Jacinto Miguel , Antunes Raul , Monteiro Diogo , Mendes Diogo , Matos Rui , Amaro Nuno
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to compare the effects of a multicomponent exercise program and a concurrent exercise program on muscle strength in community-dwelling elderly subjects. Participants (n = 35; male = 17; female = 18; Mage = 69.17, SD = 5.01 years) were screened and included in the study. Among them, 19 individuals were assigned to the multicomponent group, while 16 were assigned to the concurrent group. The results of the repeated-measures ANOVA revealed significant main effects for the group factor (F(1,15) = 66.59, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.81) and the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 16.95, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.53) for the 30-second chair test. Furthermore, significant main effects were observed only for the group factor (F(1,15) = 19.28, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.56) for the 30-second arm curl. Regarding the Timed Up and Go test, significant main effects were found for the group factor (F(1,15) = 35.56, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.70) and the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 11.68, p < 0.001, η2 = 0.43). Lastly, significant main effects were observed for the group*time factor (F(1,15) = 5.19, p = 0.038, η2 = 0.25) for handgrip strength. The multicomponent exercise group displayed a greater mean increase compared to the concurrent exercise group. While both the multicomponent and the concurrent exercise programs were effective in improving muscle strength in community-dwelling older adults, the multicomponent exercise group exhibited superior outcomes compared to the concurrent exercise group across the physical fitness measures. These findings suggest that a multicomponent exercise program may be more beneficial for enhancing muscle strength in this population.
Checking Different Video Game Mechanics to Assess Cognitive Abilities in Groups with and without Emotional Problems
Authors: Román Francisco J. , Gutiérrez Pablo , Ramos-Cejudo Juan , González-Calero Pedro Antonio , Gómez-Martín Pedro Pablo , Larroy Cristina , Martín-Brufau Ramón , López-Cavada Carlos , Quiroga María Ángeles
Published: December 2023

This study assesses cognitive abilities through video games for entertainment (Blek, Edge, and Unpossible) that were programmed from scratch to record players’ behavior and the levels achieved in a sample without emotional problems and in one with emotional problems. The non-emotional-problem sample was recruited from three universities and two bachelor’s degree programs. The emotional-problem sample was recruited from two outpatient centers. The participants in the emotional-problem sample completed reduced versions of the ability tests and video games, as required by their emotional problems. Three subtests of the Differential Aptitude Test that assessed abstract reasoning, visuospatial reasoning, and perceptual speed were selected as ability tests. All participants were required to complete a mental health questionnaire (PROMIS) and a brief questionnaire on their gaming habits and previous experience with the video games used. The results that were obtained showed good convergent validity of the video games as measures of cognitive abilities, and they showed that the behavior of players in the sample without emotional problems while playing predicted the level achieved in the Blek and Unpossible game fragments, but this was only true for Unpossible in the emotional-problem sample; finally, shorter versions of the Blek and Edge game fragments can be used because they maintain their good psychometric properties.
Environmental Parameters Related to Hypoxia Development and Persistence in Jinhae Bay from 2011 to 2016 and Their Potential for Hypoxia Prediction
Authors: Shim JeongHee , Ye Mi-Ju , Kim Young-Sug , Lim Jae-Hyun , Lee Won-Chan , Lee Tongsup
Published: December 2023

Jinhae Bay, a semi-enclosed bay on the southern coast of Korea, is a major aquaculture area that forms a spawning ground and nursery for commercially important fishes. Since the late 1960s, industrial and domestic waste from adjacent cities and industrial complexes has been released into the region, resulting in chronic hypoxia and red tides. As a central site of environmental monitoring efforts for aquaculture and fisheries in southeastern Korea, Jinhae Bay was surveyed every 2 months usually, and every 2–3 weeks during the hypoxia season, with the seawater properties observed at approximately 31–34 stations. The maximum area and duration of hypoxia in Jinhae Bay occurred in 2016 (316 km2 and 26 weeks, respectively), with minima of area in 2013 (213 km2) and duration in 2011 (15 weeks). Correlation analyses of the seawater properties, weather parameters, and hypoxia indices showed that the hypoxic area was positively correlated with the surface-water temperature, air temperature, and rainfall; the minimum dissolved oxygen concentrations were negatively correlated with the air and water temperatures and bottom-water nutrient levels; and the water stability was negatively correlated with the surface-water salinity and positively correlated with both the surface- and bottom-water nitrate and silicate concentrations. These findings imply that the air temperature and precipitation may be important factors in the development and persistence of hypoxia in Jinhae Bay via the control of the stratification intensity and eutrophication of the water column. Therefore, we tested these parameters for their potential to predict hypoxia. Based on our results, we propose the following trends of hypoxia in Jinhae Bay: the initial hypoxia development generally depends on the criteria of an air temperature ≥ 19.5 °C for 1 week and total precipitation > 100 mm over 4 weeks, and it becomes more severe (≥50% coverage) under strong eutrophication, mainly due to organic matter discharge following heavy rainfall, based on the logarithmic correlation with the 4-week rainfall (R2 = 0.6). Therefore, the hypoxic area index can be predicted using its linear regression relationships with the 1-week air temperature and 4-week precipitation (R2 = 0.56). This study tested the prediction of the hypoxic area based on a simple calculation method and weather parameter criteria, and it demonstrated the potential of this method for precisely forecasting hypoxia in combination with biogeochemical models or other mathematical solutions to prevent massive fishery damage.
Estimating Freshwater Inflows for an Ungauged Watershed at the Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge, USA
Authors: Madewell Jake , Feagin Rusty A. , Huff Thomas P. , Balboa Bill
Published: December 2023

Bays and estuaries rely on freshwater inflows to maintain the salinity gradient necessary to sustain their fisheries. Reduced freshwater inflows, particularly during summer seasons, can be detrimental to the health of these systems. Despite an extensive network of streamflow gauges in the U.S., many coastal watersheds remain ungauged. The primary objective of this study was to develop methods to build a water budget for an ungauged watershed using limited data to determine the watershed contribution of freshwater to an at-risk bay system. This method was developed and tested for Big Boggy Creek, which flows into East Matagorda Bay (EMB), Texas. The streamflow into and out of Big Boggy Creek was quantified at key upstream and downstream sites. Over the summertime study period, we found average monthly freshwater inflows of 244 megaliters (ML). A simple inflow decision tool was developed to assist resource managers in estimating freshwater inflows during the summer months in the study area. Two recommendations are provided to increase freshwater inflows to EMB, with the most approachable option being purchasing water from a regional river authority. The framework developed herein can be modified and applied to ungauged watersheds to budget, model, and predict freshwater inflow contributions.
Sequential Model Predictive Control for Grid Connection in Offshore Wind Farms Based on Active Disturbance Rejection
Authors: Li Jiangyong , Wu Jiahui , Wang Haiyun , Zhang Qiang , Zheng Hongjuan , Song Yuanyuan
Published: December 2023

In order to harness a greater share of wind energy resources, offshore wind energy projects are venturing into deep-sea locations. In this progression, the issue of grid integration control becomes increasingly challenging. Traditional Model Predictive Control (MPC) has been introduced in offshore wind energy grid integration control due to its merits, such as not requiring modulators, dispensing with decoupling, incorporating constraint handling, and facilitating online optimization. However, it heavily relies on a model and consequently experiences a substantial loss of control effectiveness in the face of system parameter variations. In light of this, this study presents an active-disturbance-rejection-based three-vector sequence model predictive control approach. This method effectively mitigates the influence caused by changes in system parameters, endowing the system with self-disturbance rejection capabilities and enhancing its fault recovery abilities. The method employs self-disturbance control to track voltage reference values and employs the concept of sequence control to eliminate weighting factors in the cost function. Furthermore, it employs three-vector control to achieve error-free operation. The simulation results confirmed that the proposed method effectively minimizes voltage and power transients. It demonstrated superior control effectiveness and shorter response times, enabling the system to rapidly restore to a stable operational state following disturbances.