bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of internal flow and mixing characteristics in dual-orifice atomizers
Authors: Qian Weijia , Zhang Jing , Hui Xin , Yang Siheng , Lian Haoyu , Wang Ping
Published: December 2024

Dual-orifice atomizers have been developed to overcome the limitations of simplex atomizers—where “simplex” refers to having only a single flow channel—which cannot adjust flow rates over a wide range. This study explores the internal flow and mixing characteristics of dual-orifice atomizers using the Volume of Fluid method. The effects of four key parameters—primary post thickness, primary recess length, secondary swirl number, and mass flow rate ratio—on flow dynamics and atomizer performance, particularly exit film thickness and spray cone angle, are investigated. The results reveal that, before mixing, the low-pressure region created by the swirling flow inside the secondary nozzle increases the primary flow angle and reduces the thickness of the primary liquid film. After mixing, the velocity difference between the primary and secondary flows enhances atomization by promoting greater instability. The impingement position of the primary liquid film is influenced by recess and the low-pressure region inside the secondary nozzle, with longer recess lengths shifting the impingement point upstream. Increases in secondary swirl number, mass flow rate ratio, and primary post thickness further enlarge the low-pressure region, causing the impingement point to move upstream. The mixing regime is defined by the impingement position, with tip mixing creating velocity stratification that increases the instability. The performance of dual-orifice atomizers depends on the impingement position, resulting mixing regime, and secondary flow's swirl intensity. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing atomizer design to improve performance.
Effects of slot throat width on two-phase n-decane/air rotating detonation engine
Authors: Shao Xiaofeng , Zhao Ningbo , Zhang Wei , Zheng Hongtao
Published: December 2024

In this paper, three-dimensional numerical simulations are conducted for rotating detonation combustion fueled by two-phase n-decane/air mixtures. The converging–diverging inlet configuration with various slot throat widths (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mm) is considered. The influence of slot throat width on the flow field structures, pressure feedback, total pressure gain, and theoretical model of a design parameter (L/hD) for the rotating detonation chamber (RDC) are discussed. The simulation results show that with the increase in the slot throat width, the evaporation distance of unburned droplet increases, and the laminated structure with double detonation front is observed, which leads to the local uncouple of rotating detonation wave (RDW) and slightly decreases the RDW velocity. In addition, strong reverse shock waves are found with slot throat width of 1.5 and 2.0 mm. The undisturbed area decreases from 97% to 59%, which indicates that the slot throat width has a significant impact on the pressure feedback. Moreover, the total pressure loss mainly comes from the reverse shock wave, the normal shock wave, and the oblique shock wave. The total pressure gain increases linearly with the increase in the slot throat width. Positive total pressure gains of 2.6% are obtained with slot throat width of 2.0 mm. Furthermore, through theoretical analysis, the design parameter (L/hD) is modeled, three critical pressure ratios are derived, and the result shows that the ideal design interval of the RDC should be located between the second and the third critical pressure ratios. The simulation results can provide guidance for designing the two-phase RDC.
Effect of shear-thinning rheology on the dynamics and pressure distribution of a single rigid ellipsoidal particle in viscous fluid flow
Authors: Awenlimobor A. , Smith D. E.
Published: December 2024

This paper evaluates the behavior of a single rigid ellipsoidal particle suspended in homogeneous viscous flow with a power-law generalized Newtonian fluid rheology using a custom-built finite element analysis (FEA) simulation. The combined effects of the shear-thinning fluid rheology, the particle aspect ratio, the initial particle orientation, and the shear-extensional rate factor in various homogeneous flow regimes on the particles dynamics and surface pressure evolution are investigated. The shear-thinning fluid behavior was found to modify the particle's trajectory and alter the particle's kinematic response. Moreover, the pressure distribution over the particle's surface is significantly reduced by the shear-thinning fluid rheology. The FEA model is validated by comparing results of the Newtonian case with results obtained from the well-known Jeffery's analytical model. Furthermore, Jeffery's model is extended to define the particle's trajectory in a special class of homogeneous Newtonian flows with combined extension and shear rate components typically found in axisymmetric nozzle flow contractions. The findings provide an improved understanding of key transport phenomenon related to physical processes involving fluid–structure interaction such as that which occurs within the flow field developed during material extrusion–deposition additive manufacturing of fiber-reinforced polymeric composites. These results provide insight into important microstructural formations within the print beads.
The effect of blade surface grooves on performance of axial fan
Authors: Zou Tengda , Hu Xiaowen , Hu Site , Du Zhaohui , Tian Jie
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the effect of blade surface grooves on the axial fan of central air-conditioner outdoor units in detail through experiments and three-dimensional unsteady simulations. The experimental results reveal that the newly designed fan with surface grooves can reduce noise by 1.2 dB(A) without sacrifice of aerodynamic performance. The simulation results demonstrate that the effect of the surface grooves is localized and does not alter the overall load distribution of the axial fan. However, it does affect the tip leakage vortex. The tip leakage vortex is a large-scale vortex that interacts with small-scale vortices shedding from the blade surface grooves, resulting in the weakening of the tip leakage vortex and the secondary tip leakage vortex. Ultimately, this leads to a reduction in the noise of the air-conditioner outdoor unit. This new strategy based on blade surface geometric design provides a novel idea for tip leakage flow control and has significant engineering application value.
Test particles in Kaluza–Klein models
Authors: Baptista João
Published: December 2024

Geodesics in general relativity describe the behaviour of test particles in a gravitational field. In 5D Kaluza–Klein, geodesics reproduce the Lorentz force motion of particles in an electromagnetic field. This paper studies geodesic motion on a higher-dimensional

M
4

×
K

with background metrics encoding general 4D gauge fields and Higgs-like scalars. It shows that the classical mass and charge of a test particle become variable quantities when the geodesic traverses regions of spacetime with massive gauge fields, such as the weak force field, or with non-constant Higgs scalars. This agrees with the physical fact that interactions mediated by massive bosons can change the mass and charge of particles. The variation rates of mass and charge along a geodesic are given by natural geometric formulae. In regions where mass is preserved, there are additional constants of motion, one for every abelian or simple summand in the Killing algebra of K. The last part of the paper discusses traditional difficulties of Kaluza–Klein models, such as the low

q

/

m

ratios in the 5D model. It suggests possible ways to circumvent them. It also remarks the naturalness of a model in which elementary particles always travel at the speed of light in higher dimensions.
In-process evaluation of layer defects and surface topography on material extruded parts through a novel point cloud functional analysis
Authors: Lafirenza Marco , Guerra Maria Grazia , Lavecchia Fulvio , Galantucci Luigi Maria
Published: December 2024

Material extrusion (MEX) is one of the most used additive manufacturing technologies, thanks to its appealing in various industrial fields. Despite its numerous advantages, process quality remains an issue when compared to other, more established technologies. In-process monitoring has become fundamental to meet the tight requirements of precision industries. In this work, a novel MEX monitoring methodology based on point-cloud functional analysis was tested and discussed. Using a blue-laser line profilometer integrated into a consumer 3D printer, the point cloud of each layer was obtained immediately after its completion and subsequently analysed. Functional analysis tools were employed to characterize the surface topography and assess the distribution of material and voids to detect defects. Common defective conditions in the form of excess or lack of deposited material, referred to as overfill and underfill, respectively, were induced by varying printing parameters and the specimen’s cross-section. After slicing the layer surface according to specified height thresholds, functional parameters such as the projected percentage area (PPA), void and material volume percentage and void and material mean thickness were computed and analysed. Results indicated that the PPA values effectively depicted the overall surface conditions and served as a suitable initial step for enabling corrective actions through the contour extraction of defective regions. Meanwhile, the percentage volume and mean thickness of voids and material, referred to as functional parameters, provided more detailed insights into the morphology of the layer surface and the detected defects.
Application and optimal design of high-temperature near-bit instrument in deep shale gas in southern sichuan
Authors: Xiao Meng , Zhang Shengliang , Liu Zeping
Published: December 2024

The exploration of deep shale gas in southern Sichuan faces a challenging operational environment characterized by elevated temperatures, high pressures, and intense vibrations. These conditions cause the heightened failure rate among steerable instruments and low drilling efficiency. In response to these challenges, this study introduces an advanced high-temperature near-bit geosteering drilling system, which can withstand temperature 175°C and pressure 140MPa while adapting to diverse drilling fluid environments. Field tests have been successfully carried out in south Sichuan, effectively improving drilling efficiency. Furthermore, this research identifies deficiencies observed during the Beijing Petroleum Machinery near-drill bit field test and presents multiple optimization strategies aimed at mitigating instrument failures resulting from downhole vibrations. These efforts are directed towards reducing instrument failure rates while offering crucial technical support for the efficient development of deep shale gas resources.
Study on hydrogen and helium chromatographic analysis system
Authors: Zhang Xinghua , Liu Shibin , Guo Zhenhua
Published: December 2024

Rare gas helium is widely used in industrial and high-tech areas, is the national important strategic resources, to lead the scientific and technological innovation has the increasingly important role, helium production capacity in China is relatively scarce, helium gas resources long-term dependence on imports. In order to strengthen the helium resource guarantee capacity of our country and ensure the advantageous position in the international development competition. In recent years, helium detection and analysis in real-time while drilling at wellsite has been gaining interest in the oil and gas industry, the detection of non-hydrocarbon gases such as helium has become the focus of current exploration. In order to meet the demand of hydrogen and helium exploration and development, a set of hydrogen-helium chromatography analyzers is developed. A separation method of helium and hydrogen combined with the pre-analysis column and the main analysis column is proposed to realize the efficient separation of hydrogen and helium, the wide spectrum TCD (Thermal Conductivity Detector) is used as the analyzer to achieve the high efficiency detection of hydrogen and helium. Field application shows that the system can detect hydrogen and helium efficiently within 30 seconds analysis cycle while drilling, which provides a technical means for the detection of hydrogen and helium in the exploration process. It provides a good technical reserve for the future large-scale development and utilization of natural hydrogen and helium.
The study of water-based drilling fluid ion concentration monitoring calibration methods
Authors: Cao Yang , Wu Haosheng , Jia Haijun
Published: December 2024

Drilling fluids are essential components in the exploration for hydrocarbons. The variations in the ionic content of these fluids frequently indicate changes in the underground situation, and the determination of the ionic content is important for the timely detection of changes in the drilling fluids and the prediction of changes in the formations. However, the current ion concentration measurement methods have shortcomings such as insufficient timeliness, significant influence from filtrate pH and temperature, and cumbersome and complex operating procedures that cannot achieve automated measurement. In response to the issues mentioned earlier, where the performance of ion-selective electrodes is influenced by the presence of various ions, PH values, and temperatures in the medium, we propose an automatic measurement method for the ionic content of water-based drilling fluids based on ion-selective electrodes. This method involves the theoretical study of the measuring principle of ideal ion-selective electrodes and the experimental analysis of the measurement errors caused by multiple ions cross-sensitivity, resulting in the development of a multi-linear regression model for ionic content correction. We verify the significance of this model and the relative errors before and after correction, thereby enhancing the accuracy of ion-selective electrodes. Additionally, we conduct theoretical and experimental research on the impact of media PH value changes on the results of ion-selective electrodes, develop a PH compensation model for ion-selective electrodes, and validate it through experiments. Similarly, we investigate the effect of media temperature changes on the results of ion-selective electrodes, develop a temperature compensation model for ion-selective electrodes, and experimentally verify it. The accuracy of ion-selective electrodes is found to meet the requirements of routine drilling operations, with total errors typically less than 10%. This ensures the provision of reliable data support for safe and efficient drilling.
TST-Refrac: A Novel Transformer Variant for Prediction of Production of Re-fractured Oil Wells
Authors: Li Diquan , Jia Jing , Wang Lichang , Yu Hongguang , Jing Jianglu
Published: December 2024

The accurate prediction of post-fracturing production for re-fractured wells is crucial for selecting suitable targets for re-fracturing. Given that the post-fracturing production of re-fractured wells is essentially time series data, this study aims to provide an accurate deep neural network approach for production prediction of re-fractured wells. Traditional deep neural networks, such as Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN) and Long Short-Term Memory Networks (LSTM), are not adept at capturing long-range dependencies. To address this limitation, a new Transformer Variant for the Prediction of Production of Re-fractured Oil Wells is proposed, based on the time window method and the classic Transformer architecture. Experimental results demonstrate that the performance of the Transformer shows significant improvement compared to RNN and LSTM. Utilizing production data from Block W in the J Basin, a random sample of nine wells was selected for model fitting and prediction. The time series Transformer model exhibited the lowest Root Mean Square Error. The successful implementation of the proposed Transformer model for time series demonstrates its capability to effectively capture long-range dependencies, enabling more precise predictions than traditional deep learning methods.
Optimal configuration design and attitude measurement method of redundant accelerometer for steering drilling tools
Authors: Rao Zhihua , Zhang Weiguo , xiao Menglin , Liu Yongfeng , Lei Hong , Chen Bin , Jin Yong
Published: December 2024

In order to improve the accuracy and reliability of attitude parameters measurement of the rotary steerable drilling tool, a slanting configuration method and measurement method of double accelerometer were proposed. The measurement equation of the redundant accelerometer in the drill coordinate system is established. According to the installation position of the accelerometer and sensitive direction, the trouble-free and uniaxial failure in both cases, in order to improve the component of gravity and angular velocity calculation precision as the objective, design measure performance evaluation indexes, the optimal configuration determines the redundant accelerometer. It uses the stability equation constraints gravity no trace adaptive Kalman filter algorithm, Accurate angular velocity measurement, the tool face Angle, and healthy inclination. Simulation and experimental results show that the optimal configuration of the redundant accelerometer is reasonable, and the attitude estimation algorithm is effective.
3D printed β-TCP scaffolds loaded with SVVYGLR peptide for promoting revascularization and osteoinduction
Authors: Gan Lin , Zhao Chaoqian , Chen Haojie , Li Yucai , Pan Zhen , Li Yan , Wang Xiao , Wang Jielin , Yu Jiangming , Ye Xiaojian
Published: December 2024

It is crucial for the successful transplantation of large segmental bone defects to achieve rapid vascularization within bone scaffolds. However, there are certain limitations including uncontrolled angiogenesis and inadequate vascular function. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop bone scaffolds with functional vascular networks. In our study, porous β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) scaffolds with varying pore sizes were prepared by 3D printing technology, loaded with osteopontin derived peptide Ser-Val-Val-Tyr-Gly-Leu-Arg (SVVYGLR) to induce osteoinduction and angiogenesis. In vitro, the proliferation and migration behaviors of human umbilical vein endothelial cell on scaffolds were assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8, confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. And the osteogenic ability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells was assessed using alkaline phosphatase staining and Alizarin Red S staining. The messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression levels of cell adhesion molecule (CD31), vascular endothelial growth factor and hypoxia inducible factor‐1α in each group were detected by quantitative real-time fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. In vivo, cube scaffolds were subcutaneously implanted on the right hips of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats for 6 weeks. Hematoxylin and Eosin staining, Masson’s trichrome staining, and immunohistochemical analysis of osteocalcin and CD31 were performed on slices for every sample with three sections to explore the effect of SVVYGLR-loaded scaffolds on angiogenesis and osteogenic induction for bone reconstruction. The results indicate that 3D printed β-TCP scaffolds loaded with the SVVYGLR peptide offer superior revascularization and osteoinduction to the scaffolds without the SVVYGLR in situ. Moreover, scaffolds with a pore size of 400 µm demonstrate higher effectiveness compared to those with a 150 µm pore size. The distinct hollow channel scaffolds and the specific SVVYGLR peptide substantially improve cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation, as well as promote angiogenesis and bone formation. Furthermore, scaffolds with a pore size of 400 µm may exhibit greater efficacy compared to those with a pore size of 150 µm. The results of this study provide an idea for the development of practical applications for tissue-engineered bone scaffolds.
Predicting Australian energy demand variability using weather data and machine learning
Authors: Richardson Doug , Hobeichi Sanaa , Sweet Lily-belle , Rey-Costa Elona , Abramowitz Gab , Pitman Andrew J
Published: December 2024

Managing energy systems requires understanding the variability of energy demand, which on daily timescales is driven primarily by the weather. Historical records of demand typically cover 1–2 decades which may be too short to capture the range of possible demand, particularly for a climate with high interannual variability such as that of Australia. Predicting demand using long records of weather data opens the possibility of more robustly estimating true demand variability. We estimate daily energy demand between 2010 and 2019 for Australian states in the National Electricity Market using machine learning with reanalysis weather variables as predictors. We assess the performance of these models and examine their behaviour to identify which weather variables are most important for predicting demand. We then use the models to estimate demand for the period 1959–2022. We use this 64-year record to quantify how the probability of high demand days can change compared to individual 10-year periods and when conditioned by the phase of the El Ni

n

~

o Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Energy demand can be accurately predicted with weather, with median errors of 2%–4% on years omitted from the training. We show that the probability of extreme demand over different 10-year periods can vary from half to twice as likely, depending on the decade. When further conditioned on ENSO phase, the probabilities can be up to 7 times higher than when using the 64-year period, implying a risk of overestimating weather-related energy demand if shorter records are used. We conclude that machine learning methods can accurately predict energy demand using only weather data, enabling us to estimate demand variability over longer time horizons than is possible with demand observations. These longer records are important when attempting to quantify tail risks of demand, and so can help to inform the design of energy systems.
High-resolution simulations of gas-liquid Couette-type sealing gap flows
Authors: Vorspohl J , Burchardt L , Meinke M , Brümmer A , Schröder W
Published: December 2024

The two-phase flow in sealing gaps of twin-screw compressors is investigated using highly resolved coupled multiphase simulations. Oil-injected rotary-type positive displacement compressors (RPDC) such as twin-screw machines are used for the compression of refrigerants in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. The efficiency of such machines is largely determined by the inevitable two-phase surge and gap flows. The simulation of flows in such compressors is still a challenge due to the complexity of the two-phase flow in the narrow gaps (<0.3mm) with organic working fluids and moving boundaries. Due to the rotation of the screws relative to the housing, gaps are present between the rotors and the end plates of the housing and between the tips of the rotors and the cylindrical housing walls. Oil injection can increase the efficiency of screw compressors or expanders by more than 10%, since oil enhances the sealing of the gaps where leakage occurs. On the other hand, additional momentum losses are caused by the two-phase gap flows. The oil injection, however, increases the hydraulic losses which depend on the geometry of the gap, the liquid, and the kinematics of the established multiphase flow in the gap. In this work, a highly efficient, high-resolution numerical method is used for the simulation of the gas-liquid multiphase flow in the screw compressor gap between the rotor tip and the stationary housing. The Lattice-Boltzmann method (LBM) defines the basis of the method used in this work, forming an in-house developed framework in which each fluid phase is solved by a separate solution algorithm. To capture the motion of the liquid-gas phase boundary, a level-set method is used. In the present work, a generic gap flow is considered. A Couette-type flow configuration, where the sealant flow in the gap is driven by the moving inner wall, is investigated. The Reynolds number based on the height of the channel is Re = 20000. Finally, we discuss the impact of bubble-laden sealing gaps on the momentum losses of the system.
ET-PROTACs: modeling ternary complex interactions using cross-modal learning and ternary attention for accurate PROTAC-induced degradation prediction
Authors: Cai Lijun , Yue Guanyu , Chen Yifan , Wang Li , Yao Xiaojun , Zou Quan , Fu Xiangzheng , Cao Dongsheng
Published: December 2024

Motivation

Accurately predicting the degradation capabilities of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) for given target proteins and E3 ligases is important for PROTAC design. The distinctive ternary structure of PROTACs presents a challenge to traditional drug–target interaction prediction methods, necessitating more innovative approaches. While current state-of-the-art (SOTA) methods using graph neural networks (GNNs) can discern the molecular structure of PROTACs and proteins, thus enabling the efficient prediction of PROTACs’ degradation capabilities, they rely heavily on limited crystal structure data of the POI-PROTAC-E3 ternary complex. This reliance underutilizes rich PROTAC experimental data and neglects intricate interaction relationships within ternary complexes.

Results

In this study, we propose a model based on cross-modal strategy and ternary attention technology, ET-PROTACs, to predict the targeted degradation capabilities of PROTACs. Our model capitalizes on the strengths of cross-modal methods by using equivariant GNN graph neural networks to process the graph structure and spatial coordinates of PROTAC molecules concurrently while utilizing sequence-based methods to learn the protein sequence information. This integration of cross-modal information is cohesively harnessed and channeled into a ternary attention mechanism, specially tailored for the unique structure of PROTACs, enabling the congruent modeling of both PROTAC and protein modalities. Experimental results demonstrate that the ET-PROTACs model outperforms existing SOTA methods. Moreover, visualizing attention scores illuminates crucial residues and atoms pivotal in specific POI-PROTAC-E3 interactions, thus offering invaluable insights and guidance for future pharmaceutical research.

Availability and implementation

The codes of our model are available at https://github.com/GuanyuYue/ET-PROTACs
New insights into the mechanisms of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease
Authors: Laidlaw Tanya M.
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), a syndrome characterized clinically by asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, and respiratory reactions to aspirin and other cyclooxygenase-1 inhibitors, is an inflammatory condition of the respiratory tract that is often severe and challenging to treat. There have been several recent advances in our understanding of the underlying pathology of the disease. These have been paralleled by welcome advances in the availability of targeted treatment options for patients with AERD.

Recent findings

Spurred in part by results from trials of targeted biologic therapies, along with single cell genomics, there is now clear evidence that the chronic respiratory inflammation in AERD is driven by combination of local tissue factors. These include abnormalities in effector cell populations, with increased accumulation and activation of mast cells and plasma cells in the nasal polyp, along with notable epithelial barrier dysregulation. The key mediators now identified include high levels of both type 2 inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13) and cytokines involved in broader inflammatory pathways (IL-33, TSLP, IL-6, oncostatin M), as well as the overproduction of cysteinyl leukotrienes, and the underproduction of prostaglandin E2.

This review covers the latest insights into the immunopathogenesis of and targeted treatment of AERD, including the roles of lipids, effector cells, and inflammatory cytokines, and discusses unanswered questions regarding its pathogenesis and potential future therapies.
Update on aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Gandre Jason R. , Ledford Dennis K.
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

This review provides the current understanding on the mechanism, diagnosis, and treatment of aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Recent findings

Updates focus on the current understanding of type 2 inflammation as a disease driver, alterations in gene expression in nasal polyps, and use of biologics in treating aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease. Recent findings include altered expression of GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-17 in nasal polyps supports the current understanding that type 2 inflammation predominantly drives the pathophysiology of AERD with CRS. From a clinical standpoint, biologics offer an effective treatment option to address type 2 inflammation. Biologics should not be favored over endoscopic sinus surgery and aspirin desensitization with daily aspirin therapy (unless contraindication are present) due to high associated cost and failure to achieve remission.

This review outlines the current approach for diagnosis and treatment of aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease with a focus on desensitization protocols, the importance of endoscopic sinus surgery, the role of biologics, and the use of leukotriene modulators.
Lung regeneration and lung bioengineering
Authors: Cohen Edmond
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease affects more than 65 million people worldwide. Lung transplantation is the only definitive treatment. However, donor availability is limited in meeting the demand.

Recent findings

Lung regeneration is a new therapeutic strategy that uses the patient's stem cells to replace dysfunctional tissue and restore functional lung tissue rather than alleviate symptoms. Organoids are a new promising target for human lung regeneration. The AEP cells are isolated from human lung tissue for growth. The 3D organ-like structures conserve the alveolar progenitor's capacity to proliferate and differentiate into various epithelial cell types.

Bioengineered organs, from a patient's cells, allow for customized biocompatible organs-on-demand without the need for immunosuppressive therapy. The concept involves the creation of a form of 3D tissue scaffold, to be populated by cells of the desired tissue to be transplanted into the patient, allowing for function as closely to the native organ as possible.

The lung's ability to regenerate extensively after injury suggests that this capability could be promoted in diseases in which loss of lung tissue occurs. Lung bioengineering offers the potential to drastically extend life expectancy in patients with end-stage lung disease. If lung reengineering were successful, it would revolutionize the world of transplantation.
Epidemiology of Pediatric Fractures and Effect of Socioeconomic Status on Fracture Incidence in Türkiye: A Nationwide Analysis of 2 Million Fractures
Authors: Kamaci Saygin , Yilmaz Engin Turkay , Goker Barlas , Dumlupinar Ebru , Ata Naim , Ulgu Mehmet Mahir , Birinci Suayip , Bingol Izzet , Yazici Muharrem , Kalenderer Onder
Published: December 2024

Background:

Childhood fractures are an important public health issue worldwide as they potentially lead to long-term complications. This is the first study reporting a nationwide data pool of 2 million children. We aimed to investigate the epidemiology of pediatric fractures by sex, age, geographical region, and socioeconomic status (SES).

Methods:

Medical records of children diagnosed with fractures between 2016 and 2022 were collected from Türkiye’s e-health database. Fractures were divided into 16 anatomic locations. Age was evaluated in four categories: <5, 5–9, 9–14, and 15–19 years. Regional rankings were stratified based on SES.

Results:

A total of 1,989,212 pediatric fractures were analyzed (1,371,398 boys, 617,814 girls). The overall fracture incidence was 1117/100,000 person-years, being higher for boys (n=1501) compared with girls (n=713) (P<0.001). The mean fracture incidence between 0 and 19 years of age was 21.2% (boys: 28.5%; girls: 13.5%). The overall fracture incidence increased with age, peaking at 10 to 14 years for all children and decreasing thereafter. The 4 most common fracture locations were in the upper extremities. Wrist fractures accounted for 28.9% (575,192) of all pediatric fractures. Provinces with higher SES had significantly increased fracture risks.

Conclusions:

This study provides the most accurate epidemiological analysis of childhood fractures in the Turkish population with landmark nationwide analysis for the pediatric literature. One fifth of children experienced fractures before maturity. The results highlight the influence of SES on fracture rates, as children in more urbanized and developed areas had an elevated risk of fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—diagnostic.
Effectiveness of Organ Preservation for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer With Complete Clinical Response After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy: Bayesian Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Ouyang Kaibo , Yang Zifeng , Yang Yuesheng , Lyu Zejian , Wang Junjiang , Li Yong
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by radical surgery is the common treatment for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Presently, for patients with complete clinical response after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, organ preservation (“watch-and-wait” and local excision strategies) has been increasingly favored. However, the optimal treatment for patients with complete clinical response remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to use Bayesian meta-analysis to determine the best treatment for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer with complete clinical response among radical surgery, local excision, and watch-and-wait strategies.

DATA SOURCES:

PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase (Ovid) databases were searched for literature published through December 31, 2023.

STUDY SELECTION:

Studies that compared 2 or more treatments for patients with complete clinical response were included.

INTERVENTION:

The analysis was completed via Bayesian meta-analysis using a random-effects model.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Surgery-related complications, local recurrence, distant metastasis, and 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates.

RESULTS:

Eleven articles met the inclusion criteria. The watch-and-wait group and local excision group exhibited a higher rate of tumor recurrence compared to the radical surgery group (watch-and-wait vs radical surgery: OR, 9.10 [95% CI, 3.30–32.3]; local excision vs radical surgery: OR, 2.93 [95% CI, 1.05–9.95]). The distant metastasis, overall survival, and disease-free survival rates of the 3 treatments were not statistically different. The radical surgery group had the most number of stomas and had the greatest risk of morbidity than the watch-and-wait group (watch-and-wait vs radical surgery: OR, 0.00 [95% CI, 0.00–0.12]).

LIMITATIONS:

The study included only 1 randomized controlled trial compared to 10 observational studies, which could affect overall quality. Funnel plots of disease-free survival rates and stoma suggest significant publication bias among studies that compared radical surgery with the watch-and-wait strategy.

CONCLUSIONS:

The watch-and-wait strategy could be optimal for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer with complete clinical response after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.
Association of ADH1B and ALDH2 genotypes with the risk of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Pan Tzu-Yu , Lee Jui-Ying , Chen Jia-Jen , Liu Yu-Wei , Abishaw A. Nishawlini , Su Ming-Wei , Lin Chien-Wei , Hsieh Tusty-Jiuan , Peng Chiung-Yu , Turesky Robert J. , Bellamri Medjda , Kwan Aij-Lie , Wu Chia-Fang , Wu Ming-Tsang
Published: December 2024

Objective

The incidence of lung adenocarcinoma (LAD) is increasing worldwide. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 family member gene (ALDH2) rs671 and alcohol dehydrogenase 1B (ADH1B) rs1229984 are common and functionally important genetic variants to metabolize endogenous and exogenous aldehyde chemicals, related to cancer.

Methods

This is a case–control study. A total of 150 newly diagnosed LAD patients were from Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Taiwan, between 2019 and 2022. Two control groups, TWB-1 (n = 600) and TWB-2 (n = 29 683), were selected from Taiwan Biobank (TWB), and the case patients were frequency-matched with TWB-1 based on age category (30–60 or >60 years old), sex, and education levels. Logistic regression models were employed to analyze the association between two genetic variants and LAD risk.

Results

A significant association was noted between ALDH2 and LAD risk. Those with ALDH2 rs671 *2/*2 in TWB-1 and TWB-2 controls had a 2.68-fold (95% CI = 1.43–4.99) and a 1.83-fold (95% CI = 1.07–3.11) increased risk of LAD, respectively, compared with those with ALDH2 rs671 *1/*1 or *1/*2, after adjusting for covariates. This association was particularly pronounced in females. No overall significant association between ADH1B rs1229984 and LAD risk was observed.

Conclusion

The findings indicate a strong and robust risk association between ALDH2 rs671*2/*2 and LAD in the Taiwan population, particularly in Taiwanese female adults.
Comparison of the Quality of Lymphatic Vessel Images Obtained Using Two Photoacoustic Imaging Systems
Authors: Suzuki Yushi , Kajita Hiroki , Otaki Marika , Watanabe Shiho , Okabe Keisuke , Sakuma Hisashi , Takatsume Yoshifumi , Asano Yuta , Soga Shigeyoshi , Imanishi Nobuaki , Sato Imari , Jinzaki Masahiro , Kishi Kazuo
Published: December 2024

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) can evaluate lymphatic vessels with a high resolution (0.2 mm) compared with other methods. LUB0, a new PAI device that is smaller than the PAI-05 used since 2020 (both from Luxonus, Inc.), has been introduced. We aimed to determine the imaging capability of LUB0 by comparing it with that of PAI-05. Two healthy individuals and 4 patients with lymphedema underwent PAI using PAI-05 and LUB0. Each participant was subcutaneously injected with indocyanine green to visualize the lymphatic vessels. PAI was performed after confirming that the lymphatic flow had moved to the central part of the body using a near-infrared camera. Four physicians selected a device with superior image clarity based on a 5-point scale. LUB0 produced sharper images of lymphatic vessels and veins than PAI-05. The physicians scored 3.0 ± 1.2 with PAI-05 and 3.9 ± 0.9 with LUB0 (P < 0.05), implying that LUB0 provided significantly clearer images. Additionally, the dermal backflow image obtained using LUB0 from a patient with lymphedema depicted the precollector lymphatic vessels more clearly. LUB0 occupies approximately one-seventh of the footprint of PAI-05 and requires a shorter imaging time (5 minutes) than PAI-05 (10 minutes). The PAI model LUB0 improved the visualization of lymphatic vessels and veins, allowing better detection and evaluation of lymphatic vessels.
Modulatory effects of CNNM4 on protein-l-isoaspartyl-O-methyltransferase repair function during alcohol-induced hepatic damage
Authors: González-Recio Irene , Goikoetxea-Usandizaga Naroa , Rejano-Gordillo Claudia M. , Conter Carolina , Rodríguez Agudo Rubén , Serrano-Maciá Marina , Zapata-Pavas Leidy Estefanía , Peña-Sanfélix Patricia , Azkargorta Mikel , Elortza Félix , Herranz José María , Guillamon Thiery Álex , Guerra-Ruiz Armando Raúl , Jover Ramiro , Galicia-Garcia Unai , Martín César , Schaeper Ute , Delgado Teresa C. , Díaz-Moreno Irene , Díaz Quintana Antonio , Buccella Daniela , Nogueiras Rubén , Argemi JosepMaria , Ávila Matías A. , Gratacós-Ginès Jordi , Iruzubieta Paula , Pose Elisa , Bataller Ramón , Crespo Javier , Martínez-Cruz Luis Alfonso , Martínez-Chantar María Luz
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims:

Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a leading cause of liver-related mortality worldwide, with limited treatment options beyond abstinence and liver transplantation. Chronic alcohol consumption has been linked to magnesium (Mg2+) deficiency, which can influence liver disease progression. The mechanisms underlying Mg2+ homeostasis dysregulation in ALD remain elusive. This study aimed to investigate the role of the Mg2+ transporter Cyclin M4 (CNNM4) in ALD by analyzing its expression patterns in patients with ALD and preclinical animal models.

Approach and Results:

In this study, CNNM4 is upregulated in the liver of both patients with ALD and animal models. CNNM4 overexpression triggers Mg2+ homeostasis dysregulation, linked to ALD progression. We propose a novel therapeutic approach for ALD treatment using N-acetylgalactosamine silencing RNA technology to specifically modulate Cnnm4 expression in the liver, improving mitochondrial function and alleviating endoplasmic reticulum stress. Notably, silencing Cnnm4 restores protein isoaspartyl methyltransferase (PCMT1) activity, essential for repairing ethanol-induced protein damage. Enhancing mitochondrial activity through Cnnm4-dependent mechanisms increases S-adenosylmethionine levels, crucial for PCMT1 function, highlighting the interconnected roles of mitochondrial health and protein homeostasis in ALD treatment.

Conclusions:

These findings shed light on the dysregulation of Mg2+ homeostasis in ALD, providing a promising therapeutic approach targeting CNNM4. N-acetylgalactosamine siCnnm4 therapy boosts the repair processes of ethanol-damaged proteins through the upregulation of PCMT1 activity.
Occupational exposure to inhalable agents is associated with reduced work ability: A prospective cohort study in Norway
Authors: Klepaker Geir , Torén Kjell , Henneberger Paul Keefer , Kongerud Johny , Fell Anne Kristin Møller
Published: December 2024

Background

This study aimed to assess work ability score (WAS) in 2018 based on self-reported data regarding inhalable occupational exposure and data from a northern European job-exposure matrix (N-JEM) recorded in 2013.

Methods

During the 5-year follow-up period of this population-based study, 4423 participants completed a postal questionnaire comprising self-reported questions regarding occupational exposure, work history, and WAS.

Results

Ever, weekly, and daily exposure to vapors, gas, dust and fumes (VGDF) in the last 5 years in 2013 was associated with reduced WAS in 2018. The N-JEM data showed that exposure to irritants, wood and paper dust, and mixed agricultural agents were associated with reduced WAS.

Conclusions

Exposure to several occupational inhalable substances is associated with reduced work ability. We recommend reducing inhalable occupational exposure to prevent reduced work ability.
Gaps in Workplace Injury Reporting Among Physicians to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics
Authors: Gabrielson Andrew T. , Chrouser Kristin , Hallbeck M. Susan , Cohen Tara , Corwin Claudia
Published: December 2024

Objective

To identify gaps in nonfatal injury and illness (NII) reporting between physicians and other occupations.

Methods

Bureau of Labor Statistics data (2011-2019) were analyzed, comparing annualized NII incidence rates using incidence rate ratios (IRR), with physicians as the reference.

Results

Between 2011-2019, physicians reported significantly lower NII rates compared to high-hazard non-medical occupations (IRR 17.2-70.8, all p < 0.01) and most low-hazard non-medical occupations (IRR 1.2-6.3, all p < 0.01), except lawyers. NII rates among physicians were also lower than those in non-physician medical occupations (IRR 1.4-27.6, all p < 0.01). In 2020, relative NII rates between physicians and non-physician medical occupations decreased but returned to pre-pandemic levels by 2021.

Conclusions

Physicians report significantly lower NII rates than other occupations, likely due to underreporting or undercounting, highlighting a potential gap in occupational injury data.
Proportional modes to hasten weaning
Authors: Bosma Karen J.
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

The purpose of this review is to examine the current state of the evidence, including several recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses, to determine if proportional modes of ventilation have the potential to hasten weaning from mechanical ventilation for adult critically ill patients, compared to pressure support ventilation (PSV), the current standard of care during the recovery and weaning phases of mechanical ventilation.

Recent findings

Proportional assist ventilation (PAV) and neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) are two commercially available proportional modes that have been studied in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Although several feasibility studies were not powered to detect differences in clinical outcomes, emerging evidence suggests that both PAV and NAVA may reduce duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, and hospital mortality compared to PSV, as shown in some small, primarily single-centre studies. Recent meta-analyses suggest that PAV shortens duration of mechanical ventilation and improves weaning success rate, and NAVA may reduce ICU and hospital mortality.

The current state of the evidence suggests that proportional modes may hasten weaning from mechanical ventilation, but larger, multicentre RCTS are needed to confirm these preliminary findings.
Autosomal recessive renal tubular dysgenesis: antenatal ultrasound scanning and molecular investigations
Authors: Liu Yang , Luo Caiqun , Wu Xiaoxia , Chen Liyuan , Cao Xiushu , Wang Hui
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to elucidate the fetal ultrasound characteristics, pathology, and molecular genetic etiology of autosomal recessive tubular dysplasia.

Methods

This retrospective study examined four fetuses with autosomal recessive tubular dysplasia (ARRTD) from two pregnancies, utilizing ultrasound evaluations and fetal renal pathology. Whole-exome sequencing-copy number variation analysis was employed to identify gene mutations.

Results

We present for the first time renal vascular resistance in fetuses with ARRTD, characterized by increased renal blood flow resistance and reversed diastolic blood flow, indicating fetal renal insufficiency. This is the first report of a nonsense mutation (C.571C>T) found in the angiotensinogen gene.

Conclusion

ARRTD disease should be strongly suspected when ultrasound examinations reveal increased renal blood flow resistance, oligohydramnios, and inadequate bladder filling, regardless of the presence of renal abnormalities.