bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production, utilization, and quality of irrigated grasses and legumes in the Mountain West USA under mob stocking or mowing at the same defoliation frequency and intensity
Authors: MacAdam Jennifer W. , Maughan Brody , Dai Xin
Published: February 2025

Background

Feed is the most costly input for US ruminant livestock production systems, and increasing the utilization efficiency of irrigated forage systems can improve system profitability. This study assessed the production, utilization, and quality of 22 intensively managed perennial grasses and legumes.

Methods

Forages were cultivated as monocultures under irrigation and subjected to mob stocking or similarly frequent and intense mowing for 2 years at 6‐week intervals between May and September. Twenty‐two grasses and legumes were randomly assigned to adjacent 1.5‐m‐wide × 9‐m‐long split subplots within each whole plot of eight replications, and the eight replications were grouped into four pairs, with the two replications per pair randomly assigned to defoliation either by grazing or mowing.

Results

Seven mostly warm‐season grasses did not persist following the first defoliation, and accumulation for three legume species could be evaluated only twice in Year 1. For the 12 remaining forage species defoliated four times in both years, defoliation management did not affect dry matter accumulation or removal, but utilization was 10% greater under grazing than mowing (p = 0.0031).

Conclusions

Under 6‐week‐long rest periods, numerous irrigated cool‐season grasses and temperate legumes were tolerant of repeated mob grazing.
Extended Technical and Clinical Validation of Deep Learning‐Based Brainstem Segmentation for Application in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Gesierich Benno , Sander Laura , Pirpamer Lukas , Meier Dominik S. , Ruberte Esther , Amann Michael , Sinnecker Tim , Huck Antal , de Leeuw Frank‐Erik , Maillard Pauline , Moy Sue , Helmer Karl G. ,   MarkVCID Consortium, Levin Johannes , Höglinger Günter U. ,   PROMESA Study Group, Kühne Michael , Bonati Leo H. , Kuhle Jens , Cattin Philippe , Granziera Cristina , Schlaeger Regina , Duering Marco
Published: February 2025

Disorders of the central nervous system, including neurodegenerative diseases, frequently affect the brainstem and can present with focal atrophy. This study aimed to (1) optimize deep learning‐based brainstem segmentation for a wide range of pathologies and T1‐weighted image acquisition parameters, (2) conduct a systematic technical and clinical validation, (3) improve segmentation quality in the presence of brainstem lesions, and (4) make an optimized brainstem segmentation tool available for public use. An intentionally heterogeneous ground truth dataset (n = 257) was employed in the training of deep learning models based on multi‐dimensional gated recurrent units (MD‐GRU) or the nnU‐Net method. Segmentation performance was evaluated against ground truth labels. FreeSurfer was used for benchmarking in subsequent validation. Technical validation, including scan‐rescan repeatability (n = 46) and inter‐scanner reproducibility (n = 20, 3 different scanners) in unseen data, was conducted in patients with cerebral small vessel disease. Clinical validation in unseen data was performed in 1‐year follow‐up data of 16 patients with multiple system atrophy, evaluating the annual percentage volume change. Two lesion filling algorithms were investigated to improve segmentation performance in 23 patients with multiple sclerosis. The MD‐GRU and nnU‐Net models demonstrated very good segmentation performance (median Dice coefficients ≥ 0.95 each) and outperformed a previously published model trained on a narrower dataset. Scan–rescan repeatability and inter‐scanner reproducibility yielded similar Bland–Altman derived limits of agreement for longitudinal FreeSurfer (total brainstem volume repeatability/reproducibility 0.68/1.85), MD‐GRU (0.72/1.46), and nnU‐Net (0.48/1.52). All methods showed comparable performance in the detection of atrophy in the total brainstem (atrophy detected in 100% of patients) and its substructures. In patients with multiple sclerosis, lesion filling further improved the accuracy of brainstem segmentation. We enhanced and systematically validated two fully automated deep learning brainstem segmentation methods and released them publicly. This enables a broader evaluation of brainstem volume as a candidate biomarker for neurodegeneration.
Factors Increasing the Likelihood of Postoperative Hematomas Following Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Ajit‐Roger Emily , Hier Jessica , Mascarella Marco , Semsar‐Kazerooni Koorosh , Wurzba Sabrina Daniela Silva , Forest Véronique‐Isabelle , Hier Michael P. , Mlynarek Alex , Mancini Carmelina , Payne Richard J.
Published: February 2025

Background

Neck hematoma following thyroid surgery is a potentially life‐threatening complication.

Methods

This retrospective case–control study reviewed neck hematoma reoperations following thyroid surgery (2009–2024), using 3:1 matching. Univariable analysis identified hematoma and delayed onset (≥ 6 h) risk factors, with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Among 5502 surgeries, the hematoma incidence was 0.55% (n = 30). The mean age was 54 and the female‐to‐male ratio was 7:3. Key risk factors included pre‐induction blood pressure > 160 mmHg (OR = 3.04 [95% CI = 1.25–7.39], p = 0.014) and limited blood pressure change postmedication (OR = 6.25 [95% CI = 1.03–38.08], p = 0.047). The hematoma group had higher rates of smoking, hypertension, diabetes, Graves' disease, and prior thyroid surgery, and, in delayed hematoma cases, larger nodules, total thyroidectomy, and central neck dissection, though not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Patients with poorly controlled blood pressure may not be candidates for outpatient thyroidectomy.
High Resolution Simulation of Nitrate and Ammonium From Point and Diffuse Sources in a Small Headwater Catchment
Authors: Spill Caroline , Gassmann Matthias
Published: February 2025

Catchment water quality models are common tools for assessing hydrochemical processes in catchments. They improve the process understanding and help to identify pollutant sources. However, the spatial and temporal resolution of many models is too coarse to represent processes occurring within minutes or hours, making them unsuitable for use in fast‐responding catchments. Examples of such cases are headwater catchments or catchments influenced by urban agglomerations. ZIN‐AgriTra is a physically based model that allows simulations with fine temporal (< 1 h) and spatial (< 100 m) resolution. As it also allows the implementation of point sources, it is suitable for the simulation of headwater catchments with mixed land use. In this study, we test for the first time the ability of ZIN‐AgriTra to represent nitrogen transport and transformation processes in a point source influenced headwater catchment. High resolution time series of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent quantities were available as input to the model. For combined sewer overflow (CSO) discharges, only discharge times were measured. However, this knowledge was still valuable during the calibration process and improved the understanding of CSO contributions during events. Our model setup and modelling strategy allowed us to simulate nitrate and ammonium export from the catchment sufficiently. Overall, point sources have a significant impact of the sensitivity of model parameters by influencing the mixing ratio between point sources and stream discharge. As point sources were found to have a large impact on water quality and quantity, not considering them would inevitably lead to incorrect parameterisation of model parameters. Models should become more inclusive in order to be able to represent processes in mixed land use catchments, especially in places, where data availability is limited.
Association of Cumulative Exposure to Metabolic Score for Visceral Fat With the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease and All‐Cause Mortality: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Qian , Cui Haozhe , Si Fei , Wu Yuntao , Yu Jing
Published: February 2025

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated that metabolic score for visceral fat (METS‐VF), a novel surrogate indicator assessing visceral fat, was associated with the risk of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality, predicting the risks based on a single METS‐VF measurement can increase limitations of the study. Few studies have investigated the association between cumulative exposure to METS‐VF and risk of CVD and all‐cause mortality. We aimed to examine the association of cumulative METS‐VF with risk for CVD and all‐cause mortality.

Methods

All participants in the study were from the Kailuan Study, which is a large, prospective cohort study, and began in 2006 years. Cumulative METS‐VF was calculated by data from 2006 survey to 2010 survey and defined as the mean METS‐VF for each pair of consecutive surveys multiplied by the time intervals between these two consecutive surveys. The optimal cut‐off value for time‐averaged cumulative METS‐VF associated with CVD was determined using a survival‐time method to calculate maximally selected rank statistics and was used to assess exposure of high METS‐VF. A multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess the risk of CVD and all‐cause mortality during 2010–2022 years (hazard ratio [HR] and 95% confidence interval [95% CI]).

Results

We included 41 756 participants (mean age, [52.72 ± 11.64] years, 78.53% males and 21.47% females). All participants were divided into four groups: Q1 (reference group), Q2, Q3 and Q4 according to the quartiles of cumulative METS‐VF, and exposure duration of high METS‐VF was quantified as 0, 2, 4, and 6 years. During the median follow‐up of 12.01 years, 4008 (9.60%) CVD events and 3944 all‐cause mortality events occurred. After adjusting for potential covariates, compared to participants in Q1 group, the HRs of incident CVD and all‐cause mortality were 1.55 (95% CI, 1.38–1.74) and 1.59 (95% CI, 1.40–1.81) for those in Q2 group, 2.13 (95% CI, 1.91–2.38) and 2.67 (95% CI 2.37–3.01) for those in Q3 group, 2.78 (95% CI, 2.49–3.17) and 4.90 (95% CI 4.36–5.50) for those in Q4 group. The HRs for CVD and all‐cause mortality were increased with exposure duration of high METS‐VF increasing. The result of ROC curve analysis showed that cumulative METS‐VF had the highest predictive for CVD among 4 indexes including cumulative METS‐VF, cumulative waist circumference, cumulative body mass index and cumulative WHtR.

Conclusions

The high cumulative METS‐VF was associated with an increased risk of CVD and mortality, and this association was stronger as exposure to high METS‐VF was prolonged, emphasizing the importance of striving to control the METS‐VF.
Neuroimaging Findings in Nondemented Frail Individuals: A Systematic Review
Authors: Harandi Hamid , Mohammadi Soheil , Jahanshahi Ali , Dolatshahi Mahsa , Alikarami Sogol , Zafari Rasa , Raji Cyrus A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Frailty is a chronic condition characterised by the progressive decline of multiple physiological functions. There is a critical need to investigate neuroimaging findings in nondemented frail individuals to better understand the underlying mechanisms and implications of frailty on brain health. This paper is aimed at reviewing neuroimaging studies assessing brain changes in nondemented frail individuals to understand the neuropsychological basis of frailty.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted on studies focusing on neuroimaging modalities in frailty, including MRI, fMRI, DTI and PET. The review was based on PRISMA instructions and a two‐step screening process. The studies evaluating neuroimaging findings of nondemented frail individuals, regardless of publication time or participant age, were included. Data were extracted from the included studies, and the quality of the studies as well as risk of bias was assessed.

Results

Out of 1604 studies screened, 22 eligible studies were included. Out of these, 10 studies had good quality, while others had fair quality according to the Newcastle Ottawa scale (NOS). Of these studies, 18 used Fried criteria or a modified version of it to diagnose frailty, while the Edmonton frailty score (EFS), Rockwood and Mitnitski frailty index and frailty index (FI) were implemented by the remaining studies. The MRI findings indicated significant differences in brain structure between nondemented frail and robust individuals, including an increased number and size of white matter hyperintensities, reduced grey matter volume, higher cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume and increased number of cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) in frail participants compared to the robust ones. The studies showed no significant difference between at‐risk and robust groups regarding total intracranial volume (TIV). The number of CMBs was associated with prefrailty status and its severity. fMRI studies showed decreased intranetwork mean functional connectivity (FC) in nondemented frail individuals. DTI studies showed lower fractional anisotropy (FA), higher axial diffusivity (AD) and higher radial diffusivity (RD) in the nondemented frail group. The PET scan study showed that mean cortical beta‐amyloid level was not associated with FI, but the accumulation of beta‐amyloid in the anterior and posterior putamen and precuneus region significantly correlated with frailty and its severity.

Conclusion

The study reveals significant differences in brain structures between nondemented frail and robust individuals, including increased white matter hyperintensities and reduced grey matter volume. These differences suggest that vascular changes and brain atrophy in nondemented frail individuals may contribute to cognitive impairment and dementia in the future.
Network Analysis of Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety and Autism: Discrete but Connected
Authors: Bitsika Vicki , Sharpley Christopher F. , Vessey Kirstan A. , Evans Ian D.
Published: February 2025

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is comorbid with several major psychiatric disorders, primarily anxiety. Although a previous report of a network analysis of five anxiety subtypes and some ASD diagnostic criteria suggested that anxiety was not part of the ASD symptomatology, several methodological limitations challenge the conclusions reported there. To address those limitations and extend understanding of the association between ASD and anxiety, data on ASD symptomatology and the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) were collected from 150 autistic boys and their parents and were analysed via network analysis. Results indicated that, although the separation of GAD and ASD symptoms was generally confirmed, several connections were found between the two sets of symptoms, arguing for a more nuanced model of the association between these two disorders. These findings hold implications for the delivery of ‘precision‐medicine’ treatment models for the treatment of anxiety in ASD.
Clinical Impact and Genetic Analysis of Enteric Viruses Associated With Acute Gastroenteritis in Greater Accra, Ghana: A Comprehensive Study of Five Viruses
Authors: Ofosu‐Appiah Lawrence Henry , Negoro Manami , Amexo Jennifer Xolali , Amelor Dodzi Kofi , Tonto Prince Baffour , Laryea Dennis Odai , Yamasaki Keiko , Asiedu‐Bekoe Franklin , Sugata Ken , Hori Hiroki , Suganuma Narufumi , Taniguchi Kiyosu
Published: February 2025

Enteric viruses are significantly associated with acute gastroenteritis globally. Despite a decrease in severe rotavirus associated diarrhoea, Ghana still records high diarrhoea burden. Meanwhile aetiological investigations in hospital settings do not routinely include viral testing. Rotavirus vaccination is thought to alter enteric viral populations and impact evolution. To better understand virus‐specific effects in acute gastroenteritis in both children and adults, we tested fecal samples from 228 patients at two hospitals in Accra from January to December 2019, using multiplex and singleplex PCR assays. The clinical impact of detected viruses was assessed using a modified Vesikari score system. Partial viral genome sequences were obtained by Sanger Sequencing and their genetic diversity and evolutionary history, traced by phylogenetic analyses. At least one enteric virus was found in 86 (37.7%) patient samples, with 36.9% of the population under five infected. Single infections of rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus, sapovirus and astrovirus were 33, 14, 8, 6, and 1, respectively, while coinfections were 24. Rotavirus accounted for 33.3% of 24 clinically severe cases (modified Vesikari score > 7). Three out of 10 rotavirus cases with evidence of vaccination experienced severe gastroenteritis. Diverse genotypes, including RVA G2P[4], G1P[8], G12P[8] and G12P[6]; AdV F40 and F41; NoV GII.4 Sydney 2012, GII.6 and GI.3, several of which clustered with contemporary strains from the Americas, Europe and Asia, were detected. This study also provides the first report of SaV GI.1, GI.7 and GII.8 detection in humans in Ghana. RVA G2P[4] and AdV F were associated with higher proportions of hospitalizations. While RVA continues to have a profound clinical impact on gastroenteritis, AdV and SaV produce an equally severe disease. In contrast, NoV and AstV showed a generally mild to moderate impact on clinical disease severity.
Differential Role of External and Internal Forcing in the Prediction of Boreal Summer and Fall Season Indian Ocean SST Variability in ECMWF SEAS5
Authors: Pillai Prasanth A. , Kiran V. G. , Suneeth K. V.
Published: February 2025

The present study analyses the boreal summer (JJA) and fall (SON) season tropical Indian Ocean (TIO) Sea Surface Temperature (SST) prediction skill of ECMWF SEAS5 using 4‐month and 1‐month lead hindcasts. The primary mode of TIO SST during JJA (EOF1), basin mode (IOBM), is captured well with a 4‐month lead time. However, the 4‐month (Feb IC) hindcast overestimates the IOBM variability (70% of the seasonal variability), reducing variability of the second mode (EOF2), dipole mode (IOD), to 8%. This leads to low potential skill (0.45) and insignificant actual skill for EOF2. However, both the JJA IO SST modes are better captured by I‐month (May IC) hindcasts and IOD has a potential skill of 0.84 and an actual skill of 0.62. The co‐occurring El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) induces basin‐wide anomalies in the TIO for Feb IC without a dipole pattern. It leads to the false alarm for IOBM suppressing the IOD‐related pattern resulting in reduced skill. Meanwhile, IOD skill is significant for the boreal fall (SON) season for the 4‐month IC (May IC) hindcast, even with a low ENSO‐IOD relationship. These hindcasts have stronger internal variability inducing dipole structure in IO with warming in the west and cooling in east. However, the ensembles with dominance of internal variability oppose the ENSO‐induced SST anomalies in the northwest Pacific, reducing the external forcing and having low IOD skill for both ICs. Thus, even though ECMWF SEAS5 hindcasts have a skill of more than a season for SON IOD, the over‐predicted influence of internal variability in seasonal mean and weak teleconnection of ENSO limits the skill of IO SST during the boreal summer.
Long‐term laboratory follow‐up is essential in pediatric patients with celiac
Authors: Krauthammer Alexander , Guz‐Mark Anat , Zevit Noam , Waisbourd‐Zinman Orith , Mozer‐Glassberg Yael , Friedler Vered Nachmias , Rozenfeld Bar Lev Michal , Matar Manar , Shouval Dror , Shamir Raanan
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Celiac disease (CeD) requires long‐term follow. The role of laboratory testing other than celiac serology during follow up is unclear. We aimed to determine which laboratory tests are required during follow up based on the prevalence of abnormal tests and timing of abnormalities appearance.

Methods

Retrospective chart‐review of children diagnosed with CeD between 1999 and 2018 was conducted. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were recorded from diagnosis and during follow‐up.

Results

The cohort included 500 children with CeD [59.8% females, median(IQR) age at diagnosis 5.7(3.7–8.9) years]. Mean follow‐up time was 5.5 years (range 1.5–16.2). The most frequently abnormal laboratory tests at time of diagnosis were low ferritin (64.3%), vitamin D (33.6%), zinc (29.9%), hemoglobin (29.2%), and folate (14.7%). In 74 (14.8%) patients, anemia developed only during follow up, while in another 46 patients, anemia resolved after diagnosis and reappeared later (after a mean ± SD 2.8 ± 2.1 years from CeD diagnosis, for the entire group). Abnormal values that developed during follow up were low folate in 40 patients (3.9 ± 2.6 years), and abnormal liver enzymes in 18 patients (3.1 ± 2.7 years). Elevated TSH during follow‐up was observed in 14/280 (5%) patients, after a mean ± SD of 2.2 ± 1.6 years from diagnosis. Patients diagnosed as teenagers (12–18 years) had shorter intervals to reappearance of anemia and folate deficiency.

Conclusions

Multiple laboratory abnormalities may occur in pediatric patients with CeD, both at diagnosis and during long‐term follow‐up. We suggest continued monitoring of hemoglobin, ferritin, folate, liver, and thyroid function in addition to celiac serology during follow‐up of CeD.
Safety and Preliminary Efficacy of Posterior External Tracheal Stent Tracheopexy for Severe Tracheomalacia in Children
Authors: Shih E' Ching , Cameron Danielle B. , Benboujja Fouzi , Hartnick Christopher J.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Severe tracheomalacia in children is challenging to manage, and surgical options ranging from tracheostomy to posterior tracheopexy has been performed for treatment of posterior tracheomalacia, with their associated morbidities. The role of posterior external stent tracheopexy (PEXY) has not been established, and we report our experiences in treatment of severe posterior tracheomalacia using PEXY.

Methods

A retrospective review of our case series of three pediatric patients with severe posterior tracheomalacia who underwent PEXY.

Results

Between August 2024 and December 2024, three patients received PEXY. Using bioresorbable external plates as posterior stents, the posterior tracheal myomembrane was sutured to the external stent instead of the anterior longitudinal spinal ligament, minimizing the risk associated with injury of surrounding structures typically encountered during mobilization for spinal ligament access, such as the thoracic duct and esophagus. There were no reported injuries intra‐operatively to the recurrent laryngeal nerves and esophagus, and all patients were discharged home within a week after their first post‐operative bronchoscopy. All patients reported symptomatic improvement.

Conclusion

We describe a novel procedure accessible to the pediatric otolaryngologist in treatment of severe posterior tracheomalacia using easily available bioresorbable plates molded to the airway as external posterior stents to resist airway collapsibility. Further research and longer‐term outcomes are required for the role of PEXY in treatment of posterior tracheomalacia.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2025
Otolaryngologic Side Effects of GLP‐1 Receptor Agonists
Authors: Khan Faizaan I. , Vazquez Sebastian Guadarrama‐Sistos , Mehdi Zain , Somawardana Isuru , Dongre Roshan , Razmi Samuel , Rashidi Keyvon , Shenoi Jason , Khan Najm , Dhanda Aatin , Takashima Masayoshi , Ahmed Omar G.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

With the increasing use of GLP‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1 RA) drugs for weight loss and diabetes management, concerns have been raised regarding their potential side effects. We aim to assess the frequency of otolaryngologic adverse events (AEs).

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of national registry.

Methods

The Food and Drug Administration's Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database was queried for events related to the GLP‐1 RA: exenatide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide from 1 year after their approval until the end of 2023. AEs were collected and sub‐stratified according to anatomic site. Reporting odds ratios (ROR) and proportional reporting ratios (PRR) were determined for all AEs.

Results

The number of AEs reported from all drugs within this study totaled 9,746. Significant signal ratios were defined as a PRR≥2 and a lower CI ROR >1. Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) had the highest signals and were significant in virtually all medications. This was followed by GERD which also had very high signal ratios and was significant in all drugs assessed. Semaglutide also had significant signals in anosmia, dry mouth, dysgeusia, and Bell's palsy. Liraglutide had significance in both signals in dysphonia, dysgeusia, tinnitus, and Bell's palsy. This was followed by exenatide which also included dysgeusia and hearing disability.

Conclusions

GLP‐1 RA were associated with various otolaryngologic AEs, with significant signals observed for semaglutide and liraglutide. GERD, MTC, and PTC were of significance in all GLP‐1 RA in this study. Monitoring these AEs is recommended.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2025
Impact of Drying Methods and pH‐Shift + US Modification of Mung Bean Protein on the Stability of Pickering Emulsion
Authors: Upadhyay Srishti , Sharanagat Vijay Singh , Chakraborty Gourav , Desai Shivani , Banoth Jeeva Kiran
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the stability and structural characteristics of Pickering emulsion (PE) stabilized by mung bean flour (MBF), spray‐dried mung bean protein (SD‐MBP), freeze‐dried mung bean protein (FD‐MBP), and their pH12‐shift combined with ultrasonication (US) modified forms: modified spray‐dried (MSD‐MBP) and freeze‐dried mung bean protein (MFD‐MBP). PE stabilized with SD‐MBP exhibited smaller droplet size (1.89 μm) and higher zeta potential (−22 mV) compared with FD‐MBP PE (−20.16 mV). The PE stabilized with MSD‐MBP displayed the smallest droplet size (1.33 μm), lowest creaming index, and a gel‐like structure with superior elastic and viscous moduli showing drying followed by pH12‐shift + US modification of protein further enhanced the stability of PE. These Pickering emulsions (PEs) showed higher pH stability, particularly at acidic and neutral pH levels, due to its dense interfacial film. Microstructural analysis (CLSM) showed homogeneously packed and tightly adsorbed interfacial layer with lowest droplet aggregation in PE stabilized with MSD‐MBP. The modification of protein also enhanced the thermal resistance of PE and followed the order as SD‐MBP > MSD‐MBP > MFD‐MBP > FD‐MBP > MBF. FTIR analysis revealed the difference in the intensity of amide peaks of PE stabilized by MBF and its proteins. The tribological analysis of PE stabilized with MSD‐MBP represents the distinct static and kinetic regions, with reduced frictional resistance at higher shear rates, indicating effective lubrication. The synergistic approach of drying and pH12‐shift + US modification of mung protein significantly improved stability and reduced creaming in PE, and the MSD‐PE highlighted its potential to develop robust PEs with enhanced functionality.
Identifying Daytime Hypercapnia Using Transcutaneous Carbon Dioxide Monitoring in Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Morrison Alexander H. , Jimenez Jose Victor , Hsu Jesse Y. , Elman Lauren , Choi Philip J. , Ackrivo Jason
Published: February 2025

Introduction/Aims

Respiratory failure from hypoventilation is the most common cause of death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, ALS care rarely assesses hypercapnia, a physiologic measure of hypoventilation. We investigated the prevalence and clinical significance of daytime hypercapnia measured by transcutaneous carbon dioxide (tcCO2) monitoring in patients with ALS.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients seen at two ALS clinics in the United States between 2012 and 2024 who had tcCO2 measured concurrently with pulmonary function tests (PFTs), which included forced vital capacity (FVC) and, at one site, maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP). We assessed the prevalence of hypercapnia (tcCO2 > 45 mmHg), the sensitivity and specificity of patient symptoms and PFTs for hypercapnia, and the relationship between hypercapnia and survival.

Results

Daytime hypercapnia was present in 33/328 (10%) patients at baseline. Hypercapnia was associated with an increased rate of death (aHR 2.1, 95% CI 1.4–3.3). Orthopnea or dyspnea was 70% sensitive for hypercapnia (95% CI 51%–84%). Absolute value of MIP (|MIP|) < 60 cmH2O was 95% sensitive (95% CI 74%–100%) and 22% specific (95% CI 16%–30%), FVC < 50% predicted was 33% sensitive (95% CI 18%–52%) and 82% specific (95% CI 78%–87%), and FVC < 80% predicted was 85% sensitive (95% CI 68%–95%) and 31% specific (95% CI 26%–36%) for hypercapnia.

Discussion

TcCO2 monitoring identified strengths and weaknesses of PFTs in identifying hypercapnia in ALS. We found high sensitivity of |MIP| < 60 cmH2O and FVC < 80% predicted and high specificity of FVC < 50% predicted. Prospective studies should investigate the optimal clinical role for tcCO2.
Mechanical Properties of Rock Ballast in Combined Tamping and Stabilizing Operations Using Numerical Dynamic Domain
Authors: Shi Shunwei , Xiao Yixiong , Xu Yang , Ren Xichong , Wang Chunyu , Zhang Yanan , Gao Liang
Published: February 2025

The maintenance effort for a ballast bed is determined by the combination of tamping and stabilizing, which have always been separated in previous researches. In this study, a tamping‐stabilizing‐ballasted track was established, and a dynamic domain was innovatively developed to improve calculation efficiency. This model was verified through a comparison with field test results. Using this model, the mechanical properties of ballast bed in tamping and stabilizing under different combination modes were firstly analyzed. The results indicate that the mechanical characteristics of rock ballast in tamping are much more intense than those in stabilizing, and repeated tamping may aggravate ballast degradation, but is beneficial for ballast rotation. Repeated tamping and stabilizing operations are conducive to the coordination number of rock ballast and contact density on the sleeper but have opposite effects on the compactness of rock ballast and pressure on the sleeper. The optimal combination model is determined to be T2S1, and this is followed by T1T1S1, according to a comprehensive evaluation of the mechanical state of ballast bed. This study can provide practical guidance for the combination of tamping and stabilizing operations in railway maintenance.
Kernel Compensation Method for Maxwell Eigenproblem in Photonic Crystals With Mimetic Finite Difference Discretizations
Authors: Jin Chenhao , Xia Yinhua , Xu Yan
Published: February 2025

We present a kernel compensation method for Maxwell eigenproblem in photonic crystals to avoid the infinite‐dimensional kernels that cause many difficulties in the calculation of energy gaps. The quasi‐periodic problem is first transformed into a periodic one on the cube by the Floquet‐Bloch theory. Then the compensation operator is introduced in Maxwell's equation with the shifted curl operator. The discrete problem depends on the compatible discretization of the de Rham complex, which is implemented by the mimetic finite difference method in this paper. We prove that the compensation term of the discretization exactly fills up the kernel of the original discrete problem and avoids spurious eigenvalues. Also, we propose an efficient preconditioner and its FFT and multigrid solvers, which allow parallel computing. Numerical experiments for different three‐dimensional lattices in photonic crystals are performed to validate the accuracy and effectiveness of the method.
Measuring the Thermal Unfolding of Lysozyme: A Critical Comparison of Differential Scanning Fluorimetry and Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Authors: Malicka Weronika , Dai Yueyue , Herrmann Andreas , Haag Rainer , Ballauff Matthias , Pigaleva Marina , Risse Thomas , Lauster Daniel , Asakereh Iman , Khajehpour Mazdak
Published: February 2025

The thermal unfolding of lysozyme in aqueous solution has been analyzed by (nano) differential scanning fluorimetry (nanoDSF) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In addition, dynamic light scattering (DLS) acquired in parallel to the DSF measurements, was used to confirm that the change in hydrodynamic radius upon unfolding is rather small (RH,f =1.75 nm in the folded state; and RH,u=1.91 nm in the unfolded state). NanoDSF measurements were evaluated to characterize the folding/unfolding transition within the classical two‐state folding model. The temperature of unfolding (Tm) is found to be the most robust quantity. The unfolding enthalpy
and the change of specific heat were also obtained and errors in the range of 5–10 % and 30–50 % were determined, respectively. A comparison of thermodynamic parameters from nanoDSF and DSC measurements provides evidence for an increasing unfolding enthalpy
with protein concentration. A comparison with data from literature suggests that a weak association in the folded state can lead to the observed change of the unfolding enthalpy. For Δcp significantly higher values is deduced from the analysis of temperature dependent nanoDSF measurements (10 kJ/(K mol)) as compare to DSC (3–5 kJ/(K mol)).
Panchromatic PAH‐Porphyrin Hybrids with a Step‐Wise Increasing π‐System
Authors: Oleszak Christoph , Ritterhoff Christian L. , Meyer Bernd , Jux Norbert
Published: February 2025

The rational synthesis of three β‐meso‐fused porphyrins with a step‐wise increasing π‐system size is presented. The synthetic route, which introduces a five‐membered ring between the macrocycle and an aromatic fragment, is modular in its nature and proceeds straightforwardly. The well‐soluble conjugates have intriguing optical properties, namely bathochromically shifted and flattened absorption curves. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations provide insights into the electronic structure and transitions, unveiling small HOMO‐LUMO gaps.
A Gingival Regeneration Evaluation System Using a Rodent Model
Authors: Shiraishi Kohei , Harada Takafumi , Huang Yen‐Chih , Narita Rintaro , Komura Hiroko , Ismael Arhans Chairul , Sekino Satoshi , Denda Tamami , Ota Yasunori , Suzuki Keisuke , Asawa Yukiyo , Kawakami Minoru , Hoshi Kazuto , Komura Makoto
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aimed to create an objective assessment system for evaluating gingival tissue generated in a rat model using a representative free gingival graft (FGG).

Methods

A gingival defect (2 × 2 mm) created on the mandibular anterior teeth of rats was evaluated for its application as a gingival recession model after 4 weeks. Using this model, we investigated the validity of the method for evaluating gingival reconstruction at FGG site. Gingival margin heights of normal and transplanted gingiva were compared, and gingival pockets were visualized using computed tomography (CT). Objective color differences between normal gingiva and FGG site were evaluated up to 4 weeks over time.

Results

The surgical procedure was safely performed using tracheotomy airway management and a mouth opener. Gingival recession was evident 4 weeks after its creation. FGG implantation provided root coverage by macroscopic findings. Gingival pockets were detected in rats using CT imaging with contrast agents for the first time. Pockets at the FGG implantation site were deeper and wider than normal gingival pockets. Differences in color between normal gingiva and the FGG site were associated with vascular volume, melanocyte density, and epithelial keratinization thickness. Furthermore, blood flow was low, and melanin dots were abundant and diverse, with varying thicknesses in the keratin layer at the FGG site.

Conclusion

The findings of this assessment system reflect FGG reviews in humans. The gingival recession model and multidirectional comprehensive evaluation methods used in this study may contribute to developing new gingival reconstruction techniques.
Novel pH‐Sensitive Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)‐Poly(Acrylic Acid) Copolymeric Hydrogels for the In Vitro Delivery of Diclofenac Sodium to the Intestine
Authors: Tazehabadi Mohammad Javad Mohammadi , Ansari Mojtaba , Sabzevari Alireza , Eslami Hossein
Published: February 2025

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)‐poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) copolymers were obtained from the synthesis and the hydrolysis of poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc)‐poly(methyl acrylate) (PMA) and PVAc‐poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) copolymers with different molar ratios. Then, pH‐sensitive PVA‐PAA copolymeric hydrogels were prepared and crosslinked using the freeze–thaw method. A non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID), diclofenac sodium (DS), as a model drug was loaded into the hydrogels. The swelling and drug delivery behavior of the hydrogels was investigated in simulated gastric (pH 1.2) and intestinal (pH 7.4) media. The copolymeric hydrogels were analyzed using attenuated total reflection (ATR). Copolymers were synthesized suitably and no chemical interaction was observed between the loaded drug and the hydrogels. The hydrogels had suitable porous structures as indicated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM). According to the findings, PVAc‐PAN‐based hydrogels had better swelling, encapsulation efficiency, and drug release ratio than PVAc‐PMA‐based samples. This is attributed to the better synthesis and hydrolysis of PVAc‐PAN copolymers. The swelling and drug release behavior of the hydrogels were mainly dependent on the pH of the media and the functional groups of the hydrogels. By changing the pH condition from acidic to basic and increasing PAA content, the hydrogels significantly showed different swelling and drug release behavior. In both sample groups, hydrogels with more PAA content showed 91.918% and 56.729% drug release ratio in pH 7.4, while 45.828% and 25.316% drug release ratio was observed in pH 1.2. These results indicate that these hydrogels are good drug delivery systems (DDS) as they show pH‐dependent drug release behavior.
Collaborative process planning method for complex curved surfaces during automated fiber placement
Authors: Pan Helin , Fu Jianhui , Qu Weiwei , Wang Huabi , Li Debao
Published: February 2025

The automated fiber placement (AFP) technology has drawn considerable interest to replace the traditional hand laid‐up, providing greater productivity, precision, repeatability, reduced waste, and the capability to manufacture complex curved structures. To further advance the application level of AFP, it is essential to exert extraordinary efforts in process planning. In this paper, a collaborative process planning method incorporating process conditions and manufacturing constraints is first developed and described in detail. In it, the mechanism of the key process parameters including pressure, head speed as well as material temperature are analyzed and predicted, respectively. In parallel, the most key manufacturing constraint, critical steering radius, is defined and elaborated. Thereafter, the layup process parameters for a winglet tool is obtained based on the collaborative process planning method. Finally, the method is investigated by the placement experiments of the winglet. Results demonstrate that the method can realize highly efficient and improve the layup quality of the winglet. Such that, the collaborative process planning method can provide an excellent foundation for enhancing the manufacturing precision and efficiency as well as placement quality for complex curvature structures.

Highlights

A collaborative process planning method is developed and described in detail.

FEM simulations and trials of the winglet are utilized to confirm the method.
Characterization of mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties for long hemp fiber‐reinforced green epoxy biocomposites
Authors: Siddiqui Vasi Uddin , Lahmdi Fahd Salah Hasan , Sapuan S. M. , Azka Muhammad Adlan , Khan Abir , Yusuf J. , Hasan Mohammad Zaid , Habib Abdul , Firdaus A. H. M.
Published: February 2025

Growing environmental concerns have heightened the demand for eco‐friendly materials, prompting a shift from carbon fibers and conventional polymers to recyclable biopolymer composites. Natural fibers, such as hemp, are widely incorporated into green epoxy composites to enhance performance, with applications spanning industries including transportation, aerospace, construction, energy, and shipping. The thermal and mechanical properties of hemp fiber‐reinforced green epoxy composites are essential in determining their effectiveness and broader viability. However, challenges such as limited fracture resistance, fragility, low impact strength, and fatigue resistance currently restrict their durability, particularly in demanding applications like automotive engineering. This study investigates the mechanical, thermal, fire, and morphological properties of hemp fiber‐reinforced green epoxy composites through comprehensive mechanical, thermal, and flammability testing, as well as SEM analysis to examine fiber behavior and microstructure. The use of green epoxy is also an area that was not deeply explored by the researchers. Furthermore, hemp fibers are known for their tensile strength and environmental benefits, which result in sustainable material production. Results demonstrated significant improvements in flexural strength, with values increasing from 53.654 MPa in neat epoxy to a minimum of 139.834 MPa in reinforced samples. Impact strength also improved, ranging from 4.04 to 8.26 kJ/m2, along with enhanced flame resistance. In conclusion, hemp fiber‐reinforced green epoxy composites showed overall performance improvements, except in tensile strength, compared to neat green epoxy samples, underscoring their potential in sustainable material applications.

Highlights

Hemp fiber improves green epoxy's flexural and impact strength.

Enhanced flame resistance in green epoxy composites with hemp fiber.

SEM analysis reveals improved fiber microstructure in composites.

The flexural strength of composites exceeds neat green epoxy by 160%.
On the use of magnetite nanoparticles as filler for 3D printing of polyether‐ether‐ketone‐based soft magnets
Authors: Paleari Lorenzo , Varvaro Gaspare , Nanni Francesca , Ferrara Miriam , Peddis Davide , Rinaldi Marianna , Meisnar Martina , Bragaglia Mario
Published: February 2025

In this work, polyether‐ether‐ketone (PEEK) – magnetite nanocomposites, having filler content of 50, 60, and 70 wt%, have been developed and 3D‐printed via Fused Filament Fabrication to manufacture high‐performance space‐compliant soft magnetic parts. The nanocomposites present high thermal stability and high transition temperatures typical of the high‐performance PEEK matrix. Mechanical properties show increased stiffness up to 12.6 GPa of elastic modulus, but reduced tensile strength and ductility due to the high content of ceramic nanofiller. The 3D‐printed magnets present soft magnetic features, matching the properties of bare magnetite particles but with a lower, although still high, saturation magnetization (up to 52 Am2/kg), which scales with the particle percentage in the non‐magnetic polymer matrix. This confirms the effectiveness of both the extrusion and 3D printing processes in upholding the structural integrity of the magnetic filler. The electrical insulating nature, which prevents eddy current losses, ease of manufacturing complex shapes, and recyclability make these materials promising for 3D‐printed magnetic components in space applications, supporting sustainable future space exploration.

Highlights

Magnetite/high performance polymer 3D‐printable nanocomposites were developed.

Magnets with interesting soft magnetic properties were 3D‐printed.

The polyether‐ether‐ketone matrix grants suitability for space applications.
Physik der höchsten Töne: Piccolo und Rekord‐Pfiffe
Authors: Mathelitsch Leopold , Verovnik Ivo
Published: February 2025

Höchste Töne im Bereich von c5 mit über 4 kHz Schwingungsfrequenz erreicht die Piccolo‐Flöte. Auch Orgeln, Pianos, Glockenspiele und Xylophone schaffen das c5. Den Höhenweltrekord hält allerdings die Klangerzeugung mit dem Mund. Sirus Madjderey gelang im März 2024 ein offiziell anerkannter Pfiff mit einer Frequenz von 19 264 Hz, also fast im Ultraschall. Beim Gesang erreichen manche Sängerinnen das c3 mit etwa 1 kHz. Dieses sogenannte Flageolettregister beruht aber entgegen früherer Annahmen wie normaler Gesang auf schwingenden Stimmlippen. Das konnten neuere Untersuchungen zeigen.
Do Nucleating Agents or Processing Methods Affect the Thermal Transport in RacoPP?
Authors: Klein Ina , Marroquin Lacayo María Ester , Blesch Thomas , Rosenfeldt Sabine , Länger Patrick , Kreger Klaus , Rettinger Stefan , Senker Jürgen , Schmidt Hans‐Werner , Retsch Markus
Published: February 2025

Polypropylene (PP) homopolymers and copolymers play a pivotal role in the plastics industry. With applications spanning automotive components, electronic housings, construction materials, and food packaging, understanding their thermal transport properties is essential. This study investigates the impact of a highly efficient 1,3,5‐benzenetrisamide (BTA) nucleator (N,N′,N″‐tris(3‐methylbutyl)benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxamide) on the thermal diffusivity of injection‐ and compression‐molded propylene‐ethylene random copolymer (racoPP). Results are compared with those for a less efficient BTA (N,N′,N″‐tris(n‐butyl) benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxamide) and a control sample without additives. We supplement our thermal characterizations with x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and small‐angle x‐ray scattering (SAXS) analyses and demonstrate that the processing method and the presence of BTAs can impact the crystallinity and orientation of the PP lamellae. However, the thermal diffusivity of racoPP exhibits remarkable resilience to these changes, ensuring the consistent performance that is often required in industrial applications.
Investigating the Potential Hearing Impairment and Ototoxicity in Children up to Six Years With Cystic Fibrosis After Aminoglycoside Exposure (PIANO‐CF Extension)
Authors: Schneider‐Futschik Elena K. , Munro Courtney B. , Quinlan Catherine , Ranganathan Sarath
Published: February 2025

Background

People with CF (pwCF) are often treated with prolonged courses of aminoglycosides (AGs), for which known adverse effects include ototoxicity as a subset of hearing impairment (HI).

Methods

The PIANO‐CF trial was a single‐center study conducted at The Royal Children's Hospital where 28 pediatric patients aged < 7 years underwent sequential hearing tests at increased range up to 12,500 Hz in relation to receiving intravenous (IV) AGs. More than 85% of the cohort (n = 24) participated in the follow‐up hearing testing up to 1 year.

Results

HI was defined by degree (dB) and frequency (Hz) on the audiogram. This was further reviewed to determine if the type of HI was consistent with ototoxicity as there are frequently other causes of HI in this age group. At baseline the prevalence of HI and ototoxicity were 11% and 7%, respectively. Over a period of 1 year, HI was identified in 12.5% and that of ototoxicity in 6%. No correlation was found between degree of IV AG exposure and HI or ototoxicity.

Discussion

The finding of HI in young children with CF, including in those with minimal IV AG exposure, has implications for CF services to proactively screen for HI. Undetected HI may compromise learning outcomes and given the age of children studied, this is not insignificant during the acquisition and development of language skills.

Conclusion

Routine audiometric testing for pwCF up to 12,500 Hz or beyond may increase sensitivity in detection of ototoxicity and should be considered for use in screening, monitoring, and future research.