bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Double‐Blind Comparative Study of burstDR Versus Tonic Epidural Motor Cortex Stimulation for the Treatment of Intractable Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Seznec Yann , Thomas Joy , Jean Baptiste Pelletier , Buhot Benjamin , Convers Philippe , Peyron Roland , Vassal François
Published: January 2025

Background

Preliminary studies on epidural motor cortex stimulation (eMCS) for the treatment of drug‐resistant neuropathic pain have supported the extension to novel stimulation waveforms, in particular burstDR. However, only a low level of evidence is available. The aim of this retrospective observational study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of burstDR versus tonic eMCS.

Methods

Patients suffering from unilateral, drug‐resistant neuropathic pain were selected for eMCS. During the trial phase, burstDR and tonic waveforms were successively applied for three consecutive months in a double‐blinded fashion and in a random order. The primary outcome criterion was the percentage of pain relief (%PR) at 3 and 6 months. The secondary outcome criterion was the proportion of patients reporting a superior %PR with the burstDR waveform.

Results

Thirteen patients were included. The averaged %PR was 75.4% ± 18.6% after burstDR eMCS and 61.1% ± 28.6% after tonic eMCS (p = 0.21). Nine patients preferred the burstDR waveform for chronic eMCS (p = 0.16), and six of them were able to decrease or withdraw their analgesic drug intake. No adverse side effect was encountered in relation to burstDR eMCS.

Conclusions

BurstDR eMCS seems at least as effective as tonic eMCS for the treatment of drug‐resistant neuropathic pain and shows a similar safety profile. Although the precise mechanisms of action remain to be fully elucidated, adequate matching between the oscillatory rhythm in the motor cortex and that of the burstDR waveform may increase synaptic efficacy, thus enhancing the functional connectivity of the motor cortex with remote brain networks involved in pain modulation.

Significance Statement

In the present paper, we provide for the first time a double‐blinded study comparing burstDR versus tonic eMCS for the treatment of intractable, drug‐resistant neuropathic pain. Our results show that burstDR eMCS is a promising option in a population of patients especially difficult to treat, and support the ongoing move toward new stimulation waveforms able to more efficiently activate the brain networks involved in pain modulation.
Nation‐wide cross‐sectional study of participation and predictors of enjoyment among Australian adult walking sport participants
Authors: Petersen Jasmine M , Connolly Cath J , Lewis Lucy K
Published: January 2025

This study examined participation and predictors of walking sports enjoyment among Australian adult walking sport participants. An online cross‐sectional survey assessed walking sport participation, enjoyment, and barriers and motives to participation. Physical activity behavior and motivations were also assessed. The sample comprised 294 walking sport participants (Mage = 62.9 ± 10.5 years). Participants engaged in a variety of walking sports (e.g., football, netball, and basketball) and largely did so one occasion per week (for ≤3 h). Our findings suggest that typically walking sport participants are female (60.1%), aged ≥60 years (54.7%), in married/de facto relationships (73.4%), reside in higher socioeconomic status areas, and are sufficiently active (i.e., ≥150 min of activity per week; 91.0%). The most endorsed barrier to walking sport participation was physical health (19.7%), while fun/enjoyment (90.5%) was the most endorsed motive. The regression analyses showed that gender (being female; β = 0.17), older age (≥60 years; β = −0.21), and intrinsic motivation for physical activity (β = 0.23) were significant predictors of walking sport enjoyment. Ongoing efforts to ensure that walking sports are a positive experience for all are necessary. The provision of walking sport offerings that integrate elements (e.g., social connectedness) known to be of value to specific subpopulations may be important to fostering enjoyment.
Exploring Pathways for Change: A Practice‐Oriented Integration of Foresight and Sustainability Transitions
Authors: Persson Björn Martin , Andersson Johnn , Forsberg Petter Bertilsson
Published: January 2025

The world is on a trajectory to exceed the 1.5‐degree target set by the Paris Agreement. As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident, there is a pressing need to fundamentally transform our societies towards just and sustainable futures. This paper presents a practical methodology for guiding collaborative transformation processes towards sustainability. Our aim is to contribute to the development of tools that combine insights from foresight with theories from the sustainability transitions literature, specifically scenario planning and multi‐level perspective (MLP) approaches. Foresight and sustainability transitions both aim to understand long‐term trends shaping production and consumption systems and guide transitions to more desirable socio‐technical regimes. However, few scholars have examined overlaps between the fields and explored the potential for practical integration in workshop settings. The MLP can benefit from scenario planning by incorporating directionality and pluralism of futures in transition processes, while the MLP provides a structure for understanding system dynamics and socio‐technical change to scenario planning. In this paper, we share our experiences using an integrated MLP‐scenario planning framework in a workshop setting where actors from the Swedish food system explored prospective transitions. Using backcasting and pre‐mortem related to regime dimensions from the MLP, participants built a common understanding of events, barriers and pathways associated with four normative scenarios of sustainable food systems. Our results show that the MLP and scenario planning can be integrated and implemented on a practical level to facilitate dialogues on current regime lock‐ins and thereby pave the way for transformative change.
Characterization of Aroma Composition of Amomum tsaoko During the Drying Process Based on GC–MS
Authors: Wen Hui , Yang Meiquan , Xu Zongliang , Yang Tianmei , Zhang Jinyu
Published: January 2025

Amomum tsaoko is an important spice and medicinal plant widely utilized in East and Southeast Asia. Non‐targeted metabolomics techniques were employed to study the variations in the content and composition of essential oil from A. tsaoko during drying at different temperatures: 40°C, 50°C, 60°C, and 70°C. A total of 260 metabolites were detected using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), mainly terpenoids and aldehydes. Cineole, the most important component, accumulated abundantly in samples dried at 50°C. A higher temperature (70°C) was conducive to the accumulation of aldehydes. Overall, the optimal drying condition for A. tsaoko was determined to be 50°C for 50 h. In addition, nine differential metabolites were screened using variable important in projection and p value (VIP > 1 and p < 0.05), which may serve as potential flavor markers to differentiate various drying treatments of A. tsaoko. This study provides a novel perspective on understanding the dynamic metabolites changes during the drying process, and establishes a theoretical foundation for the refinement and high‐quality processing of A. tsaoko.
Evaluation of Theta EEG Neurofeedback Procedure for Cognitive Training Using Simultaneous fMRI in Counterbalanced Active‐Sham Study Design
Authors: Zotev Vadim , McQuaid Jessica R. , Robertson‐Benta Cidney R. , Hittson Anne K. , Wick Tracey V. , Nathaniel Upasana , Miller Samuel D. , Ling Josef M. , van der Horn Harm J. , Mayer Andrew R.
Published: January 2025

Evaluation of mechanisms of action of EEG neurofeedback (EEG‐nf) using simultaneous fMRI is highly desirable to ensure its effective application for clinical rehabilitation and therapy. Counterbalancing training runs with active neurofeedback and sham (neuro)feedback for each participant is a promising approach to demonstrate specificity of training effects to the active neurofeedback. We report the first study in which EEG‐nf procedure is both evaluated using simultaneous fMRI and controlled via the counterbalanced active‐sham study design. Healthy volunteers (n = 18) used EEG‐nf to upregulate frontal theta EEG asymmetry (FTA) during fMRI while performing tasks that involved mental generation of a random numerical sequence and serial summation of numbers in the sequence. The FTA was defined as power asymmetry for channels F3 and F4 in [4–7] Hz band. Sham feedback was provided based on asymmetry of motion‐related artifacts. The experimental procedure included two training runs with the active EEG‐nf and two training runs with the sham feedback, in a randomized order. The participants showed significantly more positive FTA changes during the active EEG‐nf conditions compared to the sham conditions, associated with significantly higher theta EEG power changes for channel F3. Temporal correlations between the FTA and fMRI activities of prefrontal, parietal, and occipital brain regions were significantly enhanced during the active EEG‐nf conditions compared to the sham conditions. Temporal correlation between theta EEG power for channel F3 and fMRI activity of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) was also significantly enhanced. Significant active‐vs‐sham difference in fMRI activations was observed for the left DLPFC. Our results demonstrate that mechanisms of EEG‐nf training can be reliably evaluated using the counterbalanced active‐sham study design and simultaneous fMRI.
Development and formative evaluation of website‐based tool to support healthy lifestyles in family day care
Authors: Tran Georgie , Kelly Bridget , Ryan Sarah T. , Hammersley Megan , Kerr Erin , Norman Jennifer , Leedham Mel , Vuong Cecilia , Wardle Karen , Syed Kainaat , Okely Anthony
Published: January 2025

Issue Addressed

Nutrition and physical activity practices in Australian family day care are suboptimal. A web‐based tool was co‐developed with family day care service providers and educators, health promotion staff and the New South Wales Ministry of Health to promote healthier nutrition and physical activity practices through an existing quality improvement process.

Methods

Formative evaluation was conducted in January–February 2023. An online survey included 13 questions relating to content, language, structure, ease of usage and participant satisfaction. Questions used Likert scales to rate participants' experience from poor to excellent. Tool usage data were extracted from the website to reflect user activity. Service providers (n = 3) and educators (n = 9) tested the tool for 4 weeks.

Results

Survey questions were grouped into measures of perceived convenience, difficulty and helpfulness. All participants chose a rating of ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ across all questions, with a higher proportion of participants rating the questions as ‘excellent’. All participants used the tool at least once. Perceived value of research was the main theme that emerged from the open text feedback.

Conclusions

Results suggest that the tool was feasible, easy to use and relevant to practice.

So What?

This is the first known tool designed for family day care to promote healthier nutrition and physical activity practices through an existing quality improvement process to implement change. An efficacy trial will follow to evaluate effectiveness. The tool is predicted to serve as a platform for identifying gaps between policy and practice and for facilitating practice improvements.
Challenges and Choices Amidst Military Conflict: The Present and Future of Medical Education and Healthcare in Sudan
Authors: Ahmed Sohaib Mohammed Mokhtar , Masaad Mohanned Bushra , Abdulrahman Mohamed Salah Abdulrazeg , Mohamedzain Elnazeir Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: January 2025

Background

The situation for medical education and healthcare in Sudan has been challenging for the recent years, and emigration of physicians is an ongoing problem threatening the healthcare system. We conducted this study to understand the future plans of medical students and their perceptions regarding their medical education and healthcare system.

Method

We performed this cross‐sectional study at five public and private Sudanese medical schools in November 2023. We distributed the questionnaire electronically through an Online Google Form via social media platforms, such as WhatsApp Messenger. Descriptive statistics were employed for the data analyses.

Results

The mean age (±SD) of the students was 22.2 (±2.7) years, and females constituted 61.8% (397) of the study sample. About 18% of the students rated their medical training as excellent, and half of them (50%) said that it was good. Nearly half of the students believed the quality of healthcare services in hospitals was poor (46%) along with a shortage or severe shortage in its number (49%). A majority (58.4%) thought frequently or constantly about leaving Sudan after graduation. Reasons given for leaving included better personal lifestyle, avoiding conflict, advanced training, and better professional opportunities and salary. Leading motives for staying included the pull of friends and family and a sense of responsibility to the country.

Conclusion

This study indicated the pressing need for comprehensive interventions to address the challenges faced by medical students in Sudan. The strong desire to emigrate increased by the current conflict, coupled with concerns about the healthcare system and medical education, poses a significant threat to the future of healthcare services in the region.
Sediment Load Variation in Typical Watersheds of the North–South Transitional Zone, China
Authors: Geng Ren , Zhang Peixuan , Tian Peng , Zhao Guangju , Shi Yu , Mu Xingmin , Xie Meixiang , Bi Bo
Published: January 2025

The north–south transitional zone (NSTZ) is a key geographic and ecological transition zone in China. The runoff and sediment load (SL) of rivers in this zone have changed significantly, directly influencing the ecological restoration and exploitation of water resources in water basins. The previous studies have focused on one water basin; however, few studies have systematically investigated the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of SL and their driving factors in the rivers of the entire zone. Thus, this study attempted to probe the spatiotemporal variation of SL and its contributing factors in the Han River basin (HRB), Jialing River basin (JRB) and the mainstream of the Wei River basin (WRB) in the transitional zone, using observed data from 56 representative hydrological stations in this region from 1961 to 2019. The results indicated that the annual SL decreased significantly during 1961–2019 at each hydrological station (p < 0.01). The SL of Xianyang, Huangzhuang and Beibei stations during 2010–2019 had decreased more than 83%, compared to that of the 1960s. The annual SL exhibited different abrupt change points, mainly occurred in the late 1960s and around the 1990s. The specific sediment yield (SSY) of the study area was lower in the east and higher in the west. Meanwhile, the SSY displayed a generally declining trend with time. Human activity was the leading contributing factor, accounting for greater than 94% of the total SL reduction. In summary, the SL reduction in the WRB was primarily affected by soil and water conservation practices, whereas it was related to ecological restoration projects and cascade reservoirs in the HRB and JRB. The results of this study are valuable for soil erosion control and comprehensive reclamation of river basins in different regions under complicated conditions worldwide.
IGF2BP2 Regulates the Progression of Alzheimer's Disease Through m6A‐Mediated NLRP3 Inflammasome
Authors: Jingrui Wu , Haihui Yang , Jinjin Yan , Le Fang
Published: January 2025

Background

Recent studies show that N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of the Alzheimer's disease (AD), while the mechanisms involved were studied insufficiently.

Aims

The present study aimed to explore the effect of human insulin‐like growth factor 2 (IGF2) mRNA binding proteins 2 (IGF2BP2), one of the m6A‐binding proteins on the progression of AD.

Materials & Methods

The mRNA and protein expression level were determined using RT‐qPCR and western blot, respectively. MTT assay was carried out to evaluate cell viability. The content of ROS, antioxidant enzymes, IL‐1β and pyroptosis, as well as m6A contents were determined using relative commercial kit. The AD models were built using Aβ1‐42 ‐stimulated hippocampal neuron in vitro and AD mice in vivo.

Results

Our results showed that IGF2BP2 was significantly upregulated in the Aβ1‐42 ‐stimulated hippocampal neuron. IGF2BP2 inhibition reversed the decreased cell viability and the increased cell apoptosis induced by Aβ1‐42. IGF2BP2 siRNA transfection alleviated Aβ1‐42 induced pyroptosis and pyroptosis‐related proteins upregulation. we also found that IGF2BP2 inhibition downregulated the expression of NLRP3 through m6A methylation. Furthermore, overexpression of NLRP3 partly reversed the effect of IGF2BP2 inhibition on Aβ1‐42 ‐induced hippocampal neuron injury. In addition, IGF2BP2 improved cognitive function and alleviated Aβ1‐42 neuronal injury in vivo.

Conclusion

Knockdown of IGF2BP2 inhibit neuronal damage and pyroptosis in the hippocampus cells, and improve cognitive function in AD partly through m6A‐mediated NLRP3 inflammasome.
In situ detection of piRNA‐651 in exosomes and cells for cancer diagnosis by a new gold nanoparticle nucleic acid probe
Authors: Gao Qin‐Xin , Wu Qian‐Qian , Dong Zhi‐Ying , Qin Xiao‐Yuan , Zhai Lin‐Yan , Xie Bao‐Ping , Duan Wen‐Jun
Published: January 2025

Increasing studies have demonstrated that PIWI‐interacting RNAs (piRNAs) in circulating exosomes can serve as novel molecular biomarkers for tumor liquid biopsy. However, methods for in situ detection of piRNAs encased in exosomes are limited. In this study, we designed a spherical nucleic acid probe named piR‐651, which can enter exosomes simply by incubating with them for 2 h and in situ detect piR‐651 with a detection limit of 5 × 107 particles/μL. Based on this probe, we established a liquid biopsy method for the in situ detection of piR‐651 in plasma exosomes. The assay could distinguish the expression levels of piR‐651 between 21 breast cancer patients and 22 healthy individuals. The receiver operating characteristic curve shows an area under the curve as 0.9931 and the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity at the best cutoff are 85.7% and 100%, respectively. The probe can also easily perform in situ imaging of piR‐651 in living cells. To avoid low sensitivity and kinetics in detecting large‐sized PIWI‐interacting RNA complexes, we rationally designed the structure and detection scheme of piR‐651 probe, which was synthesized by modifying 13‐nm gold particles with high‐density Anchor‐Report DNA duplexes through the butanol dehydration method. The new design of the gold nanoparticle nucleic acid probe can be applied to the fabrication of nucleic acid probes targeting other large‐volume nucleic acids for developing more molecular biomarker‐based liquid biopsy for cancer diagnosis.
Impact of the Timing of First Irrigation and Subsequent Irrigation Schedules on Direct‐Seeded Furrow‐Irrigated Basmati Rice: Crop Growth, Productivity, Water Balance and Profitability
Authors: Kaur Diljeet , Singh Angrej , Sindhu Vinay Kumar , Singh Kanwar Barjinder
Published: January 2025

Addressing food security and water scarcity calls for the cultivation of rice with improved productivity while minimizing water use. To assess the impact of planting techniques and irrigation schedules on the grain yield and water productivity of direct‐seeded basmati rice (DSBR), a 2‐year field experiment was conducted. This study tested whether (1) broad beds (90:30 cm) would increase water productivity and yield compared with conventional beds (37.5:30 cm) and (2) delaying the first irrigation and optimizing schedules would improve water efficiency without reducing yield. A split‐plot design was used with planting techniques (conventional and broad beds) and the timing of the first irrigation (7 and 14 DAS) in the main plots, whereas subsequent irrigation schedules (IW/ETc values of 1.50, 1.75 and 2.0) were tested in the subplots. The results revealed that increasing the bed width did not significantly impact yield. Delaying the first irrigation saved 59 mm (5%) of water and reduced deep drainage by 107 mm (9%) without affecting yield or actual ET. Subsequent irrigation scheduling at IW/ETc ratios of 1.75 and 2.0 increased the grain yield by 10%–15% compared with 1.50 IW/ETc. Nonetheless, an IW/ETc of 1.75 saved approximately 17% of the irrigation water compared with an IW/ETc of 2.0, reducing the cultivation cost by US$ 30.2–43.8 ha−1 while maintaining a similar grain yield.
If we build it, will they come? Exploring feasibility of community pharmacy diabetes care services
Authors: Nuffer Wesley , Gallegos Deborah , Segerstrom‐Nunez Andrea , Schwander Kelsey
Published: January 2025

Pharmacists have been well established for their role in diabetes care services, both in improving patient health outcomes as well as decreasing overall costs of care. The community pharmacy environment is currently challenging, and there are efforts to transform these practices to become more patient‐centered. There are two standardized programs, the diabetes self‐management education and support program and the national diabetes prevention program, that are available for pharmacists to deliver in the community setting. These programs offer some revenue generation for services but pose some challenges in their delivery as well. Exploring facilitators and barriers to these programs, and to diabetes care services in general, with a focus on community pharmacy practice, is important. Revenue generation needs to offset personnel cost and justify the resources dedicated to expand community practice beyond traditional dispensing. Further payer reform, likely with integrating medical billing, is essential for further progress to be made in this area.
Extracellular vesicles promote the infection and pathogenicity of Japanese encephalitis virus
Authors: Xiong Junyao , Yang Ling'en , Nan Xiaowei , Zhu Shuo , Yan Mengxue , Xiang Shengxian , Zhang Luping , Li Qi , Yang Chengjie , Wang Xugang , Wei Ning , Chen Huanchun , Si Youhui , Cao Shengbo , Ye Jing
Published: January 2025

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a neurotropic zoonotic pathogen that poses a serious threat to public health. Currently, there is no specific therapeutic agent available for JEV infection, primarily due to the complexity of its infection mechanism and pathogenesis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been known to play an important role in viral infection, but their specific functions in JEV infection remain unknown. Here, ultracentrifugation in combination with density gradient centrifugation was conducted to purify EVs from JEV‐infected cells. The purified EVs were found to be infectious, with virions observed inside the EVs. Furthermore, our study showed the formation process of virion‐containing EVs both in vitro and in vivo, which involved the fusion of multivesicular bodies with the cell membrane, leading to the release of virion‐containing intraluminal vesicles into the extracellular space. Further studies revealed that EVs played a crucial role in JEV propagation by facilitating viral entry and assembly‐release. Furthermore, EVs assisted JEV in evading the neutralizing antibodies and promoted viral capability to cross the blood‐brain and placental barriers. Moreover, in vivo experiments demonstrated that EVs were beneficial for JEV infection and pathogenicity. Taken together, our findings highlight the significant contribution of EVs in JEV infection and provide valuable insights into JEV pathogenesis.
The Complexity of Decomposing a Graph into a Matching and a Bounded Linear Forest
Authors: Banerjee Agnijo , Marciano João Pedro , Mond Adva , Petr Jan , Portier Julien
Published: January 2025

Deciding whether a graph can be edge‐decomposed into a matching and a ‐bounded linear forest was recently shown by Campbell, Hörsch, and Moore to be nonedeterministic Polynomial time (NP)‐complete for every , and solvable in polynomial time for . In the first part of this paper, we close this gap by showing that this problem is NP‐complete for every . In the second part of the paper, we show that deciding whether a graph can be edge‐decomposed into a matching and a ‐bounded star forest is polynomially solvable for any , answering another question by Campbell, Hörsch, and Moore from the same paper.
Efficacy of mapping biopsy using a novel sheath system for the histological diagnosis of superficial ductal spread in distal cholangiocarcinoma: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Okuno Mitsuru , Iwata Keisuke , Mukai Tsuyoshi , Iwashita Takuji , Tanaka Takuji , Maruta Akinori , Kawashima Keisuke , Yasuda Ichiro , Moriwaki Hisataka , Shimizu Masahito
Published: January 2025

Background

Mapping biopsy (MB) can evaluate superficial ductal spread (SDS) through the histopathological diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma, enabling the selection of an appropriate surgical procedure. This retrospective study evaluated the efficacy of MB using a novel sheath system in distal cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA) cases.

Methods

A total of 199 cholangiocarcinoma cases underwent preoperative diagnosis. Among them, 40, 21, and 26 cases underwent direct, sheath, and peroral cholangioscopy (POCS) MB, respectively, for dCCA. Each group was compared regarding their technical success rate and the diagnostic accuracy for SDS.

Results

Although all cases achieved technical success, the median procedure time of POCS (48‐min) tended to be longer than direct (33‐min) and sheath MB (30‐min) (p overall = .092). Diagnostic specificity and accuracy were significantly higher in the sheath group (95.2%, 95.2%) compared to the direct (71.0%, 70.0%) and POCS (60.9%, 57.7%) MB groups (p overall = .019 and .0094). Multivariate analysis revealed that the sheath MB group was an independent significant factor for the accurate margin diagnosis (OR 0.11; 95% CI: 0.01–0.86, p = .0358).

Conclusions

The sheath MB method provided the most accurate histopathological diagnosis of SDS in dCCA. To obtain a larger tissue sample and avoid tumor cell contamination, sheath MB is worth performing to assess the accuracy of the preoperative SDS diagnosis.
Rank stability of elliptic curves in certain non‐abelian extensions
Authors: Pathak Siddhi , Ray Anwesh
Published: January 2025

Let be an elliptic curve with rank . Fix an odd prime , a positive integer , and a finite abelian extension with rank . In this paper, we show that there exist infinitely many extensions such that is Galois with , and rank . This is an extension of earlier results on rank stability of elliptic curves in cyclic extensions of prime power order to a non‐abelian setting. We also obtain an asymptotic lower bound for the number of such extensions, ordered by their absolute discriminant.
Estimates for the Diameters of the Set of Solutions to a Nonlinear Differential Equation With Unbounded Coefficients
Authors: Ospanov Kordan , Ospanov Myrzagali
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we prove some estimates of the distribution functions of the Kolmogorov diameters of solution's set to one class of the third‐order nonlinear differential equations with variable coefficients. The equation is defined on the entire real axis, and its coefficients are unbounded functions. Previously, such equations were studied in the case where their intermediate coefficients are equal to zero, and the junior coefficient does not change sign. Sufficient conditions for the existence of a weak solution are also obtained, and under some restrictions on the oscillation of the intermediate coefficient, the maximal regularity of the solution is proved in the paper. In the proofs of the theorems are use the results of the authors obtained in the case of a linear differential equation of the third order (Ospanov & Ospanov, 2024), and Schauder's fixed point theorem.
A W‐Band Bandpass Filter With Two Controllable Transmission Zeros Based on Rectangular Resonators
Authors: Chen Yao , Wang Pei , Luo Chao , Liu Kai‐Yu , Zhang Zhi‐Min , Ren Tao‐Yu , Xu Kai‐Jiang , Li Ji‐Chen , Li Zhen‐Ning , Wei Xi‐Dong
Published: January 2025

In this paper, an improved W‐band bandpass filter for the W‐band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) system with a center frequency of 96 GHz is designed and implemented. Compared with the conventional rectangular waveguide resonator filters, two specially designed oversized rectangular waveguide cavities are combined in the structure to create two transmission zeros (TZs), which improves the sharp cutoff rate of the filter and remains the simplicity of the structure. Meanwhile, the position of each TZ is independently controlled by the dimensions of one specific oversized rectangular resonator, which makes it easier to realize a flexible and accurate design. The improved structure is analyzed, modeled and optimized to obtain a better transmission characteristic. The measured results show that the return loss of the improved W‐band bandpass filter is less than −8 dB and the insertion loss is less than 1.4 dB within the passband. Additionally, the two TZs are located at 89.17 GHz and 103 GHz, respectively. These results verify the feasibility of the improved bandpass filter structure.
FK506 Enhancement of Neuromuscular Junction Recovery After Nerve Injury Is Macrophage‐Dependent
Authors: Jablonka‐Shariff Albina , Broberg Curtis , Snyder‐Warwick Alison K.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Motor recovery following nerve injury is dependent on time required for muscle reinnervation. This process is imperfect, however, and recovery is often incomplete. At the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), macrophage signaling aids muscle reinnervation. Tacrolimus (FK506) treatment speeds functional recovery through unknown mechanisms. This study investigated whether macrophages were required for FK506 neuroenhancing effects.

Methods

Wildtype (WT) mice and mice with impaired macrophage recruitment to injury sites (Ccr2

−/−
) were injected subcutaneously with either saline or FK506 for 3 days prior to sciatic nerve transection and immediate repair and then daily for 4 weeks. Functional recovery was assessed by grid walk and muscle force. Morphometric NMJ and macrophage analyses were conducted in extensor digitorum longus muscles.

Results

FK506‐injected WT mice showed increased proportions of fully reinnervated NMJs and terminal Schwann cells/NMJ (p < 0.05), improved recovery of tetanic muscle force (p < 0.05), and improved grid walking (p < 0.05) relative to controls. Ccr2

−/−
mice showed no enhancements in recovery; Ccr2

−/−
mice treated with FK506 did not differ from controls on any tested metric. We also observed at the NMJ of WT mice increased macrophage numbers with FK506 treatment and increased macrophages expressing FK506 binding protein, FKBP52, after nerve injury.

Discussion

These results show that macrophages are required for FK506‐mediated improvements in NMJ reinnervation and muscle function. These data implicate macrophages in the mechanism underlying FK506‐mediated enhancement of motor recovery after nerve injury. Enhanced knowledge of the neuroenhancing mechanism of FK506 may identify new clinically relevant therapeutic targets.
A Discrete Element Method–Based Energetic Approach to Model Two‐Dimensional Fatigue Crack Propagation
Authors: Ma Lei , Koval Georg , Chazallon Cyrille , Descantes Yannick
Published: January 2025

In this work, a fatigue crack propagation model is proposed using the two‐dimensional discrete element method (DEM). The challenge lies in describing the small progressive fatigue crack growth within a single cycle, which is typically much smaller than the size of the smallest particles, making it difficult to continuously capture the loss of contact stiffness. To accurately represent crack increments in DEM, a reduction in contact stiffness is directly linked to the length of the propagated crack, based on the local energy release in a contact. This allows for a precise description of crack increments at scales much smaller than particle size. Building on this, and utilizing the local evaluation of the energy release rate, Paris' law is applied to describe the fatigue behaviour of the contact under cyclic loading. An efficient approach is introduced that replaces the full cycle analysis with equivalent quasi‐static monotonic simulations, leading to significant gains in computational time. The resultant DEM simulations adopt the same parameters as in continuum mechanics, eliminating the need for calibration, and demonstrate good agreement with theoretical and experimental results from the literature.
Simultaneous Concentration and T2 Mapping of Brain Metabolites by Fast Multi‐Echo Spectroscopic Imaging
Authors: Rizzo Rudy , Stamatelatou Angeliki , Heerschap Arend , Scheenen Tom , Kreis Roland
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to produce metabolite‐specific T2 and concentration maps in a clinically compatible time frame. A multi‐TE 2D MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) experiment (multi‐echo single‐shot MRSI [MESS‐MRSI]) deployed truncated and partially sampled multi‐echo trains from single scans and was combined with simultaneous multiparametric model fitting. It was tested in vivo for the brain in five healthy subjects. Cramér–Rao lower bounds (CRLB) were used as the measure of performance. The novel method was compared with (1) traditional multi‐echo multi‐shot (MEMS) MRSI and, as proof of concept, with (2) a truncated version of MEMS, which mimics the MESS acquisition (MESS‐mocked) on the original fully sampled MEMS dataset. MESS‐MRSI simultaneously yields concentration and T2 maps with a nominal voxel size of ~2 cm3 with a 16 × 16 FOV matrix in 7 min scan time. The estimated values not only align well with the equivalent mocked experiment but are also in good agreement with the traditional threefold longer MEMS acquisition. The MESS‐MRSI scheme extends former findings for single‐voxel MESS, with improvements in CRLB ranging from 17% to 45% for concentrations and 10% to 23% for T2s when compared to traditional MEMS. This finding suggests that concentrations and T2 times can be reliably estimated in a multi‐echo spectroscopic imaging exam by trading off spectral resolution (for some of the acquired TEs) with a significant reduction in scan time, as long as (1) an appropriate bidimensional frequency‐TE model is deployed and (2) one TE is sampled in full. Thus, high spectral resolution information can be injected to the partially sampled TEs during fitting by prior knowledge from the one fully sampled TE. Tissue‐type and regional distributions of 16 metabolite concentrations align well with the literature, and T2 distributions for five major metabolites are described by region and tissue. The novel MRSI acquisition strategy, based on partially sampled single‐shot multi‐echo trains twinned to multiparametric fitting, is optimally suited to provide simultaneous 2D concentration and T2 maps in clinic‐compatible scan times. MESS principles allow embedding advanced MRSI techniques to further improve speed, coverage, or resolution. Preliminary findings from a cohort of five subjects reveal correlations between T2 relaxation times and the relative fraction of gray/white matter, suggesting tissue‐type‐dependent microstructural changes.
Muno: Improved Bandwidth Estimation Scheme in Video Conferencing Using Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Nguyen Van Tu , Ryu Sang‐Woo , Ko Kyung‐Chan , Yoo Jae‐Hyoung , Hong James Won‐Ki
Published: January 2025

Many studies have used machine learning techniques for bitrate control to improve the quality of experience (QoE) of video streaming applications. However, most of these studies have focused on HTTP adaptive streaming with one‐to‐one connections. This research examines video conferencing applications that involve real‐time, multiparty, and full‐duplex communication among participants. In conventional video conferencing systems, a rule‐based algorithm is typically employed to estimate the available bandwidth of each participant, and the outcomes are then used to control the video delivery rate to the participant. This paper proposes Muno, a bandwidth prediction framework based on deep reinforcement learning (DRL) for multiparty video conferencing systems. Muno aims to enhance the overall QoE by using DRL to improve bandwidth estimation for each connection. The experimental results indicate that Muno achieves a significantly higher video streaming rate, video resolution, and framerate while lowering delay in highly dynamic networks when compared to the state‐of‐the‐art rule‐based algorithms and roughly equivalent streaming rate and delay in stable networks. Moreover, Muno can generalize well to different network conditions which were not included in the training set. We also implemented a high‐performance and scalable version of Muno for in‐campus deployment.
A Hybrid Technique for Estimating the State of Health of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Manjunatha Babu P. , Dsouza Ozwin Dominic , Shilpa G.
Published: January 2025

Lithium‐ion Battery State of Health (SOH) estimation is essential for reliability and safety. Rechargeable lithium‐ion availability is decreased by thickening the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer due to interactions between electrodes and electrolytes during cycles of discharging and charging. This paper proposes a hybrid approach, called LOA‐FENN, to reduce estimation errors by fusing the fully Elman neural network (FENN) with the lyrebird optimization algorithm (LOA). The LOA optimizes the neural network's weight during training, while the FENN predicts the SOH. Implemented in MATLAB, the LOA‐FENN approach achieved an estimation error of 1.08%, outperforming existing methods such as the hybrid genetic algorithm (HGA), box‐cox transformation (BCT), and particle filter algorithm (PFA), which showed errors of 1.38%, 1.28%, and 1.18%, respectively.
Design of Fluorinated Poly(Ether‐Pyridine) Films for Impedimetric Detection of Heavy Metal Ions
Authors: Jlalia Ibtissem , Gomri Marwen , Chabbah Taha , Chatti Saber , Weidner Stefen , Abderrazak Houyem , Marestin Catherine , Mercier Regis , Halima Hamdi Ben , Lakard Boris , Renault Nicole Jaffrezic
Published: January 2025

A series of fluorinated poly(ether‐pyridine)s were synthesized via polycondensation of bis‐perfluoropyridine with either bisphenol A (BPA) or isosorbide, a bio‐sourced diol. The polymers were characterized using 1H and 19F NMR spectroscopy, and their molecular weights were determined using GPC. Thermal properties were assessed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The presence of isosorbide in polymer P2 increases the glass transition temperature and results in a lower molecular weight and a higher hydrophilicity. On the other hand, polymer P3, based on BPA, shows the best thermal stability, the highest molecular weight, and the most pronounced hydrophobic character. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to evaluate the modified gold electrodes for the selective detection of metal ions. Among the four target ions (Ni2+, Cd2+, Pb2+, and Hg2+), defined by the European Water Framework Directive, Pb2+ was selectively detected on the hydrophilic polymer P2, while Cd2+ was selectively detected on the hydrophobic polymer P3. The achieved detection limits were 5 × 10−11 M, corresponding to 10 ng/L for Pb2+ and 5.6 ng/L for Cd2+, respectively.
Carboxymethyl Cellulose‐Based Composite Hydrogels for Sustainable Agriculture Under Drought Stress
Authors: Barala Poonam , Lohchab Monika , Hooda Vinita
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of a DAP‐loaded composite hydrogel comprising carboxymethyl cellulose‐g‐poly(acrylic acid‐acrylamide)/diatomite (CMC‐g‐P(AA‐AAm)/diatomite/DAP) using chemical crosslinking. The incorporation of diatomite enhanced the equilibrium water absorbency of the hydrogel by 54.48% in distilled water and 34.02% in tap water. The hydrogel demonstrated excellent reswelling capacity, maintaining 105.8 g/g and 36.13 g/g in distilled and tap water, respectively, after 10 cycles. Soil treated with the hydrogel retained the highest water at a 0.3% concentration, showing a 291% increase at 35°C compared to the control. Composite hydrogel treatments improved soil physiochemical properties, including bulk density, porosity, organic carbon, water‐holding capacity, and microbial counts while reducing soil pH. The hydrogel facilitated a controlled release of nitrogen and phosphorus, following Fickian diffusion. Enhanced germination rates and improved mustard plant growth under drought conditions were observed, indicating the potential of hydrogel in sustainable agriculture. Further research and field trials are required to evaluate its performance under diverse soil and climate conditions, paving the way for its widespread adoption.
Thrombopoietin Receptor Agonists for Thrombocytopenia in Pediatric Hematologic Malignancies
Authors: Marinoff Amanda E. , Thrall Allyson , Aaronson Kathryn , Braun Benjamin S. , Castellanos Maria , Chu Julia , Hermiston Michelle , Huang Benjamin J. , Levinson Anya , Southworth Erica , Winger Beth Apsel , Olshen Adam , Stieglitz Elliot
Published: January 2025

Background

Thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO‐RAs) have demonstrated efficacy in treating clinically significant thrombocytopenia, including chemotherapy‐induced thrombocytopenia in adults. However, data regarding their safety and efficacy in pediatric, adolescents, and young adult (AYA) patients with hematologic malignancies are limited.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 15 pediatric and AYA patients aged 25 years or younger with hematologic malignancies treated with a TPO‐RA at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals between 2015 and 2023. Platelet counts and transfusion requirements were compared before and after TPO‐RA therapy.

Results

The median age at TPO‐RA initiation was 16 years (range: 7–25 years). Nine patients (60%) had a history of bleeding or comorbidity that predisposed to severe bleeding risk. Eleven patients received romiplostim and four patients received eltrombopag. The median platelet count significantly increased from 24 × 109/L at baseline to 54 × 109/L after 3 weeks of any TPO‐RA therapy (p = 0.029). Monthly platelet transfusion requirements significantly decreased from a median of 15 to two units after TPO‐RA therapy (p = 0.007). Fourteen of the 15 patients (93%) achieved a sustained platelet count >50,000/µL within 8 weeks, with a median time to response of 3 weeks. No TPO‐RA‐related adverse events were observed.

Conclusion

TPO‐RAs were effective in managing refractory thrombocytopenia in pediatric and young adult patients being treated for hematologic malignancies, with a favorable safety profile, even among patients with multiple comorbidities. These findings warrant further investigation through prospective clinical trials to confirm efficacy and establish clinical guidelines for this population.
Prevention and Management of Infectious Complications in Pediatric Patients With Cancer: A Survey Assessment of Current Practices Across Children's Oncology Group Institutions
Authors: Slatnick Leonora R. , Hoogstra David , Fisher Brian T. , Wolf Joshua , Orgel Etan , Nessle C. Nathan , Patel Pratik A. , Miller Tamara P. , Wilkes Jennifer , Dupuis L. Lee , Goode Erin , Jackson Kasey , Willis Daniel N. , Elgarten Caitlin , Aftandilian Catherine , Thompson Joel , Alexander Sarah , Beauchemin Melissa P. , Belsky Jennifer A. , Hess Jennifer , Prudowsky Zachary D. , Guinipero Terri , Rossoff Jenna , Demedis Jenna , Walsh Alexandra M. , Richards Rebecca , Choi Daniel K. , Dvorak Christopher C. , Esbenshade Adam J.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

While clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for pediatric oncology infection prophylaxis and management exist, few data describe actual management occurring at pediatric oncology centers.

Methods

An electronic survey querying infection management practices in nontransplant pediatric oncology patients was iteratively created by the Children's Oncology Group (COG) Cancer Control and Supportive Care Infectious Diseases Subcommittee and sent to leaders at all COG institutions, limiting each site to one response to represent their institution.

Results

The response rate was 57% (129/227 institutions). Many sites reported utilizing COG‐endorsed CPGs for antibacterial (76%) and antifungal prophylaxis (74%), and fever and neutropenia (FN, 64%). Most institutions reported using antimicrobial prophylaxis for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (88% antibacterial, 100% antifungal) and relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (82% antibacterial, 95% antifungal). Definitions of fever, phagocyte recovery, and antibiotic duration in febrile patients varied. Most institutions administer empiric broad‐spectrum antibiotics for nonneutropenic fever, although 14% reported withholding antibiotics based on initial clinical status or risk stratification tools. Most respondents reported (70%) admitting FN patients for at least 48 h, however 15% have low‐risk FN protocols allowing outpatient management. FN patients remain admitted on antibiotics through count recovery in 50% of institutions, whereas the others employed various early discharge/early antibiotic discontinuation strategies.

Conclusions

There is often consistency but also substantial variability in reported antimicrobial prophylaxis strategies and management of patients with fever and represents an opportunity for implementation studies to standardize application of CPG recommendations and randomized trials to advance evidence where knowledge gaps exist.
Thermomechanical finite element modeling of extruded polyvinylchloride tubes for temperature and warpage prediction
Authors: Lippens Willem , Ivens Jan , Desplentere Frederik
Published: January 2025

In this study, a thermomechanical finite element process simulation model for rigid polyvinylchloride extruded products with a tubular cross‐section is developed and validated. The goal is to predict the warpage of the extruded tubes with varying levels of (a)symmetry (wall thickness ratios ranging from 1/1 to 1/5), utilizing the temperature distribution developed during the cooling phase of the process. The material undergoes significant temperature variation (from melt to room temperature), potentially leading to significant changes in material properties during the process. Therefore, temperature‐dependent material properties are determined experimentally and implemented into commercial simulation software. Boundary conditions in the model are changed depending on the different process settings and the location of the product in the process. The model is validated by comparing measured temperatures and warpages with simulated ones for six levels of wall thickness ratios and varying process settings. The model is shown to predict warpages within 86% of accuracy and temperatures within 90% of accuracy.

Highlights

Measurement and implementation of temperature‐dependent material properties.

Development of extrusion process model with varying boundary conditions.

Thermal and mechanical (warp) prediction for six levels of wall thickness ratios.