bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between radiation dose and cerebral microbleed formation in dogs with intracranial tumors
Authors: Staudinger Chris , Dennler Matthias , Körner Maximilian , Beckmann Katrin , Kowalska Malwina E. , Meier Valeria , Rohrer Bley Carla
Published: October 2024

Background

Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are a possible sequela in human brain tumor patients treated with radiation therapy (RT). No such association is reported in dogs.

Objectives

To investigate whether CMBs occur in dogs after radiotherapy, and if there is an association between number and dose, and an increase over time.

Animals

Thirty‐four client‐owned dogs irradiated for primary intracranial neoplasia. ≥2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans including susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) were required.

Methods

Retrospective, observational, single‐center study. Cerebral microbleeds identified on 3 T SWI were counted within the entire brain, and within low‐ (<20 Gy), intermediate‐ (20‐30 Gy), and high‐ (>30 Gy) dose regions. A generalized linear mixed‐effects model was used to analyze the relationship between the CMBs count and the predictor variables (irradiation dose, time after treatment).

Results

Median follow‐up time was 12.6 months (range, 1.8‐37.6 months). Eighty‐three MR scans were performed. In 4/15 dogs (27%, 95% CI, 10%‐52%) CMBs were present at baseline. ≥1 CMBs after RT were identified in 21/34 dogs (62%, 95% CI, 45%‐77%). With each month, the number of CMBs increased by 14% (95% CI, 11%‐16%; P < .001). The odds of developing CMBs in the high‐dose region are 4.7 times (95% CI, 3.9‐5.6; P < .001) greater compared with the low‐dose region.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

RT is 1 possible cause of CMBs formation in dogs. Cerebral microbleeds are most likely to occur in the peritumoral high‐dose volume, to be chronic, and to increase in number over time. Their clinical relevance remains unknown.
Real‐time estimation of olive flounder growth in indoor aquaculture using cameras combined with a grid
Authors: Nguyen Hang Thi Phuong , Jun Myoungjae , Jeong Hieyong
Published: October 2024

Estimating fish growth in real time has many benefits for indoor aquaculture farms, such as saving labor time and costs, reducing water pollution during feeding, improving feeding activity and determining when to harvest. Hence, this study proposed a visual‐information‐based method for measuring olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) length, using accurate growth tracking for efficient aquaculture management. Using two cameras, an light‐emitting‐diode (LED) grid was placed at the bottom of the water tank to measure fish length. The pixels unit from the fish length in the captured image was converted to centimeters based on the relationship of a pre‐built dataset. A total of 180 lengths were calculated using images captured by the cameras. The average length of each fish acquired from the cameras was calculated separately, and Lagrange's interpolating polynomial algorithm was implemented to calculate the overall length of each fish. This method reduced the computational complexity, and results were obtained more rapidly and in a user‐friendly environment. The power model generated the length–weight relationship, which allowed us to estimate the body weight of each olive flounder based on the length. The proposed approach enabled us to calculate the length of olive flounders with a highly accurate R2 of 0.995.
Nursing care during management of recurrent pheochromocytoma: A case study
Authors: Chen Minmin , Zhuang Yaoning , Weng Zhicheng , Zhuang Jingjing , Chen Liangying
Published: October 2024

Background

Pheochromocytoma can occur in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, placing them at increased risk of tumour recurrence after surgical resection. Therefore, management of pheochromocytoma in these patients is a clinical challenge.

Aims

We aim to present and discuss the nursing management of patient with recurrent pheochromocytoma.

Study design

Case studies. We reviewed and retrieved the necessary information from the medical records.

Results

A 34‐year‐old female with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma and pheochromocytoma complicated by cardiomyopathy, who had undergone surgical resections 6 years ago, presented with abdominal pain for 1 day and was diagnosed with recurrent bilateral pheochromocytoma, hypertensive crisis, acute heart failure, and acute renal failure. Eight hours after hospital admission, she experienced sudden cardiac arrest and received cardiopulmonary resuscitations. She was then supported under extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). The adrenal tumour was successfully treated with absolute ethanol ablation followed by gelatin sponge particle embolization, a management approach which has not been reported previously. She had a satisfactory recovery.

Conclusions

A comprehensive nursing management approach, including prone ventilation; safe transportation; close cardiopulmonary monitoring; pre‐, intra‐ and post‐procedure care; individualized early rehabilitation; and psychological supports, should be applied to improve the prognoses in patients with similar medical conditions.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Bilateral adrenal pheochromocytoma can be managed by absolute ethanol ablation followed by gelatin sponge particle embolization. Comprehensive nursing management, including a team effort regarding patient positioning, transportation, close monitoring, early rehabilitation and psychological support, should be provided during the peri‐procedure period.
Complicated placement of a nasogastric tube in the gastric mucosa: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Yiqi , Gao Yuzhi , Zeng Linyan , Hu Juan , Zheng Xia
Published: October 2024

Nasogastric tubes (NGTs) are commonly used in the intensive care unit (ICU) and are often inserted blindly at the bedside. Previous studies have highlighted various complications associated with NGT misplacement, including epistaxis, pneumothorax and even fatal perforations. To reduce the incidence of complications, guidelines recommend confirming the correct position of the NGT through radiography, pH testing, end‐expiratory carbon dioxide monitoring, ultrasonography, etc. Herein, we present the case of a 78‐year‐old man who experienced sudden dyspnoea, was brought to the ICU and subsequently developed gastrointestinal bleeding following improper NGT placement. In this patient, air was rapidly injected down the NGT while auscultating for a ‘whooshing sound’ over the epigastrium. However, the correct position of the NGT was eventually confirmed by X‐ray. Urgent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed an oesophagogastric submucosal tunnelling of the NGT. This case emphasizes that auscultation may be unreliable and no longer encouraged. Additionally, various verification methods may not detect such rare complications related to NGT placement, making it necessary to focus on the emerging clinical manifestations following NGT insertion. Moreover, gaining further insight into the history of gastrointestinal diseases in patients may be beneficial.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This case underscores the importance of noting resistance during a blind nasogastric tube (NGT) insertion in the intensive care unit (ICU). Additionally, the ‘whooshing testing’ for tube placement verification is not recommended. Although radiographic confirmation remains the gold standard, it may not effectively identify rare complications. Furthermore, emerging clinical signs (such as the abnormal nature of the gastrointestinal decompression drainage fluid, hypotension and anaemia) after insertion may suggest NGT misalignment. Finally, in urgent ICU settings, the patient's history of gastrointestinal disease should not be overlooked, as it can lead to complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding.
Standardizing fossil disparity metrics using sample coverage
Authors: Jones Menna , Close Roger
Published: October 2024

Estimating past biodiversity using the fossil record is a central goal of palaeobiology. Because raw estimates of biodiversity are biased by variation in sampling intensity across time, space, environments and taxonomic groups, sampling standardization is routinely applied when estimating taxonomic diversity (e.g. species richness). However, sampling standardization is less commonly used when estimating alternative currencies of biological diversity, such as morphological disparity. Here, we show the effects of standardizing fossil time series of morphological disparity to equal sample completeness, or ‘coverage’, of the underlying taxon‐frequency distribution. We apply coverage‐based standardization to three published datasets of discrete morphological characters (echinoderms, ichthyosaurs and ornithischian dinosaurs), and quantify disparity using two metrics: weighted mean pairwise dissimilarity (WMPD) and the sum of variance (SOV). We also compare the effects of coverage‐based and sample‐size‐based standardization. Our results show that coverage standardization can yield estimates of disparity through time that dramatically deviate from raw estimates, both in magnitude and direction of changes. These findings demonstrate that future studies of morphological disparity should control for variation in sampling intensity to enable more reliable inferences.
Effect of the Application of PGF2α Associated With Ovulation Induction in a Fixed‐Time Superovulation Programme for Precocious Nellore Heifers
Authors: Sanches Tamires Korchovei , Soares Pamela Mara Celestino , Marques Marcio de Oliveira , da Silva Rubens Cesar Pinto , Pfeifer Luiz Francisco Machado , Zangirolamo Amanda Fonseca , Morotti Fábio , Seneda Marcelo Marcondes
Published: October 2024

This study evaluated the effect of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) associated with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) for ovulation induction in precocious indicus heifers submitted to a fixed‐time superovulation (SOV) programme. Precocious Nellore heifers (n = 35), aged 13 months, were subjected to the SOV protocol. On day 0 (D0), all animals received intravaginal insertion of a progesterone (P4) device along with intramuscular administration of 2 mg of oestradiol benzoate, plus 200 IU of follicle‐stimulating hormone in decreasing doses, with 12‐h intervals between D4 and D7, in addition to 150 μg of D‐cloprostenol on D6 and device removal on D7. On D8, the donors received 10.5 μg of buserelin acetate and the treatment group received 300 μg of D‐cloprostenol/PGF2α. Artificial insemination was performed 12 h and 24 h after GnRH administration using frozen semen. On D15 of the protocol (i.e., D7 after insemination), the embryos were collected and evaluated. All animals passed through the control and treatment groups. Results were evaluated by analysis of variance using an adjusted mixed‐effects model (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the total number of embryos between the control and treatment groups (10.40 ± 1.52 vs. 9.60 ± 1.36; p = 0.63) or viable embryos (6.30 ± 1.22 vs. 4.30 ± 0.71). For precocious indicus heifers, treatment with PGF2α in association with GnRH did not affect embryo production in the fixed‐time SOV protocol.
On a posteriori error estimation for Runge–Kutta discontinuous Galerkin methods for linear hyperbolic problems
Authors: Georgoulis Emmanuil H. , Hall Edward J. C. , Makridakis Charalambos G.
Published: October 2024

A posteriori bounds for the error measured in various norms for a standard second‐order explicit‐in‐time Runge–Kutta discontinuous Galerkin (RKDG) discretization of a one‐dimensional (in space) linear transport problem are derived. The proof is based on a novel space‐time polynomial reconstruction, hinging on high‐order temporal reconstructions for continuous and discontinuous Galerkin time‐stepping methods. Of particular interest is the question of error estimation under dynamic mesh modification. The theoretical findings are tested by numerical experiments.
Facies stacking and lateral variability of travertines from the Quaternary Vega Botijuela, Salar de Antofalla Basin, Argentina
Authors: Giovanini Varejão Filipe , Alonso Guido E. , Athayde Gustavo B. , Bahniuk Rumbelsperger Anelize M. , Cury Leonardo F.
Published: October 2024

Travertines are non‐marine sedimentary rocks, which are typically hydrothermal in origin and characterized by high depositional rates. Despite great advances in the understanding of the geomorphological, petrological and geochemical aspects of travertines, the recognition of these rocks in the geological record is not an easy task due to the multiple parameters involved in their formation, the variable potential of preservation and the lack of a facies model with application to the geological record. This study applies classic sedimentological and stratigraphic methods, looking for vertical and lateral facies distribution at the Vega Botijuela, Salar de Antofalla, Argentina. Travertines are geomorphologically compartmentalized into proximal, intermediate and distal zones, with spring waters in the proximal zone and mixed carbonate–siliciclastic sedimentation observed towards the distal zone. The presented data corroborate previous assumptions that these systems are dominantly progradational to aggradational. Vertical facies stacking is typically coarsening‐upward, with a dominance of carbonate mudstone interbedded with grainstone, rudstone and boundstone. Distinct facies associations are observed in the Vega Botijuela and are defined here as dome, fissure ridge, gently and steeply inclined slopes, stepped slope and terminal, according to morphological criteria applied elsewhere. Biotic and abiotic travertine precipitation occurs along the geomorphological zones and is related directly to different slope gradients. Throughout the depositional history of travertines, the carbonate facies occur interbedded with siliciclastic deposits from the Salar de Antofalla, generating local facies heterogeneity in the marginal areas of the basin. This is one of the first attempts to establish vertical stacking patterns to characterize facies associations, adding important insights towards the building of a travertine facies model. In this context, these findings can be applied to recognize travertines of the geological record developed in extensional sedimentary basin margins under arid climatic conditions.
First‐order asymptotic perturbation theory for extensions of symmetric operators
Authors: Latushkin Yuri , Sukhtaiev Selim
Published: October 2024

This work offers a new prospective on asymptotic perturbation theory for varying self‐adjoint extensions of symmetric operators. Employing symplectic formulation of self‐adjointness, we use a version of resolvent difference identity for two arbitrary self‐adjoint extensions that facilitates asymptotic analysis of resolvent operators via first‐order expansion for the family of Lagrangian planes associated with perturbed operators. Specifically, we derive a Riccati‐type differential equation and the first‐order asymptotic expansion for resolvents of self‐adjoint extensions determined by smooth one‐parameter families of Lagrangian planes. This asymptotic perturbation theory yields a symplectic version of the abstract Kato selection theorem and Hadamard–Rellich‐type variational formula for slopes of multiple eigenvalue curves bifurcating from an eigenvalue of the unperturbed operator. The latter, in turn, gives a general infinitesimal version of the celebrated formula equating the spectral flow of a path of self‐adjoint extensions and the Maslov index of the corresponding path of Lagrangian planes. Applications are given to quantum graphs, periodic Kronig–Penney model, elliptic second‐order partial differential operators with Robin boundary conditions, and physically relevant heat equations with thermal conductivity.
Blade Designs For Improved Multi-Phase Performance In sCO2 Compressors; Part II - Optical Diagnostics In sCO2 And Experimental Evaluation With Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Fernandez Erik , Gabriel-Ohanu Emmanuel , Veselý Ladislav , Kapat Jayanta , Hosangadi Ashvin , Cooper Paul
Published: October 2024

This paper presents the second part of a study in which the leading-edge and suction surface of a compressor blade was modified to delay onset of phase change for sCO2 compressors operating near the critical point. Using a first-of-its-kind apparatus for the measurement of sCO2 flow fields, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) is used for local flow field measurements of two compressor blade geometries: the modified “biased-wedge,” and a conventional constant thickness blade. Utilizing the developed hardware, the feasibility of a simple, laser-based diagnostic for qualitatively measuring liquid phase regions, is also presented. The design of the optical diagnostics rig, a discussion of numerous challenges, and necessary considerations involved in performing optical-based measurements like PIV, in sCO2, are discussed. Velocity field measurements for the modified compressor profile show a much lower suction peak compared to a conventional blade. These results validate numerical results at the tested conditions, where the suction side profile of the biased wedge works to minimize the local pressure gradient.
Field Performance Testing and Test Codes for Gas Compressors
Authors: Brun Klaus , Kurz Rainer
Published: October 2024

Field testing of gas compressor packages requires the accurate determination of efficiency, capacity, head, and power in sometimes less than ideal working environments. The results of field tests have significant implications for the compressor manufacturers and their customers, as economic considerations demand that the performance and efficiency of an installation are verified to assure a project's return on investment. Thus, for the compressor manufacturers, as well as for the end user, an accurate determination of the compressor performance in the field is of vital interest. While field performance tests have to be executed under conditions dictated by the situation at site, factory test codes like ASME PTC10 and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 5389 provide guidance. The former code was recently revised, so a discussion of this revised code in the context of site performance testing is appropriate. A key change in PTC10 is the method to calculate polytropic work, which affects data reduction. It also affirms a method to calculate error propagation and test uncertainties. The discussion includes the appropriate use of equations of State (EOS) and the definition of steady-state requirements. Different methods to define valid operating conditions for the test based on similarity considerations are compared. However, field tests, unlike factory tests, are ultimately conducted based on the conditions at site that may or may not conform with test codes. Therefore, calculation of test uncertainties and the use of observations not covered by the codes are emphasized. The paper attempts to provide guidance for the conduct of field performance tests.
A Computational Study of Temperature-Driven Low Engine Order Forced Response in High Pressure Turbines
Authors: Trafford Alexander , Stapelfeldt Sina
Published: October 2024

This paper reports the results of computational studies of the effect of combustor exit temperature distortions on low engine order (LEO) forced response of a high pressure turbine (HPT). Forced response of this kind occurs at frequencies below the stator vane passing frequency (SVPF) and can be a major cause of high cycle fatigue in turbines due to its tendency to excite fundamental modes of vibration. This paper investigates the extent through which temperature distortions act as a forcing stimulus in HPT rotor rows, through measuring unsteady pressure and modal force magnitude recorded from full annulus unsteady simulations of the MT1 stage: a low temperature, unshrouded, HPT rig. Rotor relative incidence angle variations are shown to be the key mechanism through which temperature acts as a forcer in HPT rotor rows while temperature-driven forced response is shown to be dependent on the magnitude of the modal content of the upstream temperature waves. These findings are used to build a reduced domain tool for blocked burner forced response prediction, which is shown to be accurate to a root mean squared (RMS) error of 2.66%, far beyond the current accepted standard for forcing prediction of this kind.
Shank3 mutation impairs glutamate signaling and myelination in ASD mouse model and human iPSC-derived OPCs
Authors: Fischer Inbar , Shohat Sophie , Leichtmann-Bardoogo Yael , Nayak Ritu , Wiener Gal , Rosh Idan , Shemen Aviram , Tripathi Utkarsh , Rokach May , Bar Ela , Hussein Yara , Castro Ana Carolina , Chen Gal , Soffer Adi , Schokoroy-Trangle Sari , Elad-Sfadia Galit , Assaf Yaniv , Schroeder Avi , Monteiro Patricia , Stern Shani , Maoz Ben M. , Barak Boaz
Published: October 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by social and neurocognitive impairments, with mutations of the
SHANK3
gene being prominent in patients with monogenic ASD. Using the InsG3680 mouse model with a
Shank3
mutation seen in humans, we revealed an unknown role for Shank3 in postsynaptic oligodendrocyte (OL) features, similar to its role in neurons. This was shown by impaired molecular and physiological glutamatergic traits of InsG3680-derived primary OL cultures. In vivo, InsG3680 mice exhibit significant reductions in the expression of key myelination–related transcripts and proteins, along with deficits in myelin ultrastructure, white matter, axonal conductivity, and motor skills. Last, we observed significant impairments, with clinical relevance, in induced pluripotent stem cell–derived OLs from a patient with the InsG3680 mutation. Together, our study provides insight into Shank3’s role in OLs and reveals a mechanism of the crucial connection of myelination to ASD pathology.
Mechanism of degrader-targeted protein ubiquitinability
Authors: Crowe Charlotte , Nakasone Mark A. , Chandler Sarah , Craigon Conner , Sathe Gajanan , Tatham Michael H. , Makukhin Nikolai , Hay Ronald T. , Ciulli Alessio
Published: October 2024

Small-molecule degraders of disease-driving proteins offer a clinically proven modality with enhanced therapeutic efficacy and potential to tackle previously undrugged targets. Stable and long-lived degrader-mediated ternary complexes drive fast and profound target degradation; however, the mechanisms by which they affect target ubiquitination remain elusive. Here, we show cryo-EM structures of the VHL Cullin 2 RING E3 ligase with the degrader MZ1 directing target protein Brd4
BD2
toward UBE2R1-ubiquitin, and Lys
456
at optimal positioning for nucleophilic attack. In vitro ubiquitination and mass spectrometry illuminate a patch of favorably ubiquitinable lysines on one face of Brd4
BD2
, with cellular degradation and ubiquitinomics confirming the importance of Lys
456
and nearby Lys
368
/Lys
445
, identifying the “ubiquitination zone.” Our results demonstrate the proficiency of MZ1 in positioning the substrate for catalysis, the favorability of Brd4
BD2
for ubiquitination by UBE2R1, and the flexibility of CRL2 for capturing suboptimal lysines. We propose a model for ubiquitinability of degrader-recruited targets, providing a mechanistic blueprint for further rational drug design.
Nonlinearity-enhanced continuous microwave detection based on stochastic resonance
Authors: Wu Kang-Da , Xie Chongwu , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can , Zou Chang-Ling , Xiang Guo-Yong
Published: October 2024

In practical sensing tasks, noise is usually regarded as an obstacle that degrades the sensitivity. Fortunately, stochastic resonance can counterintuitively harness noise to notably enhance the output signal-to-noise ratio in a nonlinear system. Although stochastic resonance has been extensively studied in various disciplines, its potential in realistic sensing tasks remains largely unexplored. Here, we propose and demonstrate a noise-enhanced microwave sensor using a thermal ensemble of interacting Rydberg atoms. Using the strong nonlinearity present in the Rydberg ensembles and leveraging stochastic noises in the system, we demonstrate the stochastic resonance driven by a weak microwave signal (from several microvolts per centimeter to millivolts per centimeter). A substantial enhancement in the detection is achieved, with a sensitivity surpassing that of a heterodyne atomic sensor by 6.6 decibels. Our results offer a promising platform for investigating stochastic resonance in practical sensing scenarios.
Predicting rapid adaptation in time from adaptation in space: A 30-year field experiment in marine snails
Authors: Garcia Castillo Diego , Barton Nick , Faria Rui , Larsson Jenny , Stankowski Sean , Butlin Roger , Johannesson Kerstin , Westram Anja M.
Published: October 2024

Predicting the outcomes of adaptation is a major goal of evolutionary biology. When temporal changes in the environment mirror spatial gradients, it opens up the potential for predicting the course of adaptive evolution over time based on patterns of spatial genetic and phenotypic variation. We assessed this approach in a 30-year transplant experiment in the intertidal snail
Littorina saxatilis
. In 1992, snails were transplanted from a predation-dominated environment to one dominated by wave action. On the basis of spatial patterns, we predicted transitions in shell size and morphology, allele frequencies at positions throughout the genome, and chromosomal rearrangement frequencies. Observed changes closely agreed with predictions and transformation was both dramatic and rapid. Hence, adaptation can be predicted from knowledge of the phenotypic and genetic variation among populations.
Perihatch surge of thyroid hormone drives cognitive flexibility in newborn chicks
Authors: Aoki Naoya , Mori Chihiro , Serizawa Shouta , Fujita Toshiyuki , Yamaguchi Shinji , Homma Koichi J.
Published: October 2024

Early experience in infancy affects cognitive development. Birds, like mammals, acquire cognitive flexibility attributed to a well-developed telencephalon. Precocial chicks acquire imprintability just after hatching when thyroid hormone (T
3
) flows into the brain and primes later learning. Here, we show that the perihatch synthesis of T
3
paralleling thyroid development is crucial for imprinting and endows newborn chicks with cognitive flexibility via a mechanism involving the nidopallium dorsocaudale, the avian “prefrontal cortex.” Imprinted chicks showed higher cognitive flexibility than those unimprinted in switching or reversal task experiments. Notably, we discovered that exogenous T
3
endowed similar flexibility in unimprinted chicks. Cognitive stimulation by a surge of thyroid hormone indicates a vertebrate tactic involving high cognitive ability for adapting to environmental changes.
An anti-Shiga toxin VHH nanobody multimer protects mice against fatal toxicosis when administered intramuscularly as repRNA
Authors: Robinson Sally R. , Dayao Denise Ann , Medina Jhon A. , Martone Cara J. , Yauch Anne K. , Hinkley Troy , Erasmus Jesse H. , Shoemaker Charles B. , Tzipori Saul
Published: October 2024

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a systemic sequelae from gastrointestinal infection with Shiga toxin (Stx) producing
Escherichia coli
(STEC) that can result in acute kidney injury, lasting renal disease, and death. Despite a window for intervention between hemorrhagic diarrhea and onset of HUS, no specific therapies exist to prevent or treat HUS following STEC infection. Furthermore, there is no way to predict which patients with STEC will develop HUS or any rapid way to determine which Stx variant is present. To address this, we have broadened the therpay to neutralize additional toxin variants. It contains a multimer of nanobodies derived from camelid heavy chain antibody fragments (VHHs). An improved
V
HH-based
n
eutralizing
a
gent (VNA2) is delivered intramuscularly as RNA combined with LION nanoparticles rather than mRNA, that replicates on administration (repRNA), resulting in a rapidly circulating VNA that can bind systemic toxin. The RNA/VNA2-Stx administered intramuscularly prevents toxicity and death in a mouse model of acute Stx toxicity.
Paediatric family activation rapid response (FARR) in acute care: a qualitative study for developing a multilingual application (app) intervention
Authors: Marufu Takawira C , Taylor Nicola , Cresham Fox Shannon , Popejoy Emma , Boardman Rachel , Manning Joseph C
Published: October 2024

Background

Delayed recognition of clinical deterioration can result in harm to patients. Parents/carers can often recognise changes in the child’s condition before healthcare professionals (HCPs). To mitigate the risk of failure to rescue and promote early intervention, family-activated rapid response (FARR) systems are part of family-integrated care. Mechanisms for parents/carers to escalate concerns regarding their child’s clinical status remain limited to direct verbal communication, which may impede those with communication/linguistic challenges.

Aim

To develop a digital multilingual intervention by which families/carers can escalate their concerns directly to the rapid response team while in acute paediatric care.

Methods

A single-centre qualitative, co-design app development study was conducted. Evidence synthesis from a systematic review of the international literature informed interviews on intervention prototype development using co-design focus groups. Participant recruitment targeted underserved communities for multilingual functionality validity. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Thirty parents/carers (n=16) and HCPs (n=14) participated in the study. Three themes were generated from the data analysis: (1) relational considerations; communication, professional and parental attributes, and collaborative working; (2) technology considerations; app content, usage and outcomes; and (3) individual and environmental considerations; parental and professional elements, and workload. A FARR app prototype was developed based on the data.

Conclusion

The prototype app provides a platform to develop a coordinated and consistent technological approach to paediatric FARR that acknowledges cultural nuances and preferences, ensuring that parents can communicate in a manner that aligns with their cultural background and communication abilities, thereby enhancing the quality of care delivered.
The impact of COVID-19 vaccination on patients with congenital heart disease in England: a case-control study
Authors: Harrison Catriona , Frain Simon , Jalalinajafabadi Farideh , Williams Simon G , Keavney Bernard
Published: October 2024

Background

Studies predating widespread COVID-19 vaccination identified patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) as a group at increased risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19. Here we evaluate the impact of vaccination on COVID-19 outcomes among patients with CHD.

Methods

We conducted a case-control study using linked English electronic health records (n=3 18 135). Patients with CHD were matched with controls by age, sex, ethnicity and GP practice. The ‘prevaccination’ cohort comprised unvaccinated patients with CHD and matched controls with first-recorded SARS-CoV-2 infection between 1 March and 8 December 2020 (7805 cases, 27 620 controls). The ‘post-vaccination’ cohort comprised vaccinated patients with CHD and matched controls with first-recorded SARS-CoV-2 infection between 1 March 2021 and 1 April 2022, at least 14 days after vaccination (57 550 cases, 225 160 controls). Odds of severe COVID-19 outcomes were compared using conditional logistic regression. We also compared the rate at which vaccine efficacy diminished, and the incidence of vaccine-associated complications.

Results

Compared with the prevaccination cohort, postvaccination patients with CHD exhibited markedly reduced rates of COVID-19-related hospitalisation (0.5% vs 15.8%) and mortality rates (0.5% vs 4.6%). Compared with vaccinated controls, vaccinated patients with CHD remained at increased risk of hospitalisation (0.5% vs 0.2%, adjusted OR 2.24 (1.88–2.65); p<0.001) and death (0.5% vs 0.3%, adjusted OR 1.81 (1.54–2.13); p<0.001). There was no evidence that vaccine efficacy declined faster in patients with CHD, or that patients with CHD experienced a larger increase in incidence of myocarditis, pericarditis or thrombotic events.

Conclusion

We observed a lower absolute risk of hospitalisation and death from COVID-19 in CHD patients after vaccination. However, in vaccinated CHD patients, an elevated risk of severe outcomes persists compared with vaccinated people without CHD. These results emphasise the importance of vaccination in the CHD population, and of vigilance among care providers dealing with COVID-19 infection in CHD patients, even if fully vaccinated.
Poor long-term outcomes and abnormal neurodegeneration biomarkers after military traumatic brain injury: the ADVANCE study
Authors: Graham Neil SN , Blissitt Grace , Zimmerman Karl , Orton Lydia , Friedland Daniel , Coady Emma , Laban Rhiannon , Veleva Elena , Heslegrave Amanda J , Zetterberg Henrik , Schofield Susie , Fear Nicola T , Boos Christopher J , Bull Anthony M J , Bennett Alexander , Sharp David J
Published: October 2024

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common in military campaigns and is a risk factor for dementia.ArmeDSerVices TrAuma and RehabilitatioNOutComE-TBI (ADVANCE-TBI) aims to ascertain neurological outcomes in UK military personnel with major battlefield trauma, leveraging advances in quantification of axonal breakdown markers like neurofilament light (NfL), and astroglial marker glial fibrillar acidic protein (GFAP) in blood. We aimed to describe the causes, prevalence and consequences of TBI, and its fluid biomarker associations.

Methods

TBI history was ascertained in 1145 servicemen and veterans, of whom 579 had been exposed to major trauma. Functional and mental health assessments were administered, and blood samples were collected approximately 8 years postinjury, with plasma biomarkers quantified (n=1125) for NfL, GFAP, total tau, phospho-tau181, amyloid-β 42 and 40. Outcomes were related to neurotrauma exposure.

Results

TBI was present in 16.9% (n=98) of exposed participants, with 46.9% classified as mild-probable and 53.1% classified as moderate to severe. Depression (β=1.65, 95% CI (1.33 to 2.03)), anxiety (β=1.65 (1.34 to 2.03)) and post-traumatic stress disorder (β=1.30 (1.19 to 1.41)) symptoms were more common after TBI, alongside poorer 6 minute walk distance (β=0.79 (0.74 to 0.84)) and quality of life (β=1.27 (1.19 to 1.36), all p<0.001). Plasma GFAP was 11% (95% CI 2 to 21) higher post-TBI (p=0.013), with greater concentrations in moderate-to-severe injuries (47% higher than mild-probable (95% CI 20% to 82%, p<0.001). Unemployment was more common among those with elevated GFAP levels post-TBI, showing a 1.14-fold increase (95% CI 1.03 to 1.27, p<0.001) for every doubling in GFAP concentration.

Conclusions

TBI affected nearly a fifth of trauma-exposed personnel, related to worse mental health, motor and functional outcomes, as well as elevated plasma GFAP levels 8 years post-injury. This was absent after extracranial trauma, and showed a dose-response relationship with the severity of the injury.
Association of fluoroquinolones with the risk of spontaneous pneumothorax: nationwide case–time–control study
Authors: Bénard-Laribière Anne , Pambrun Elodie , Kouzan Serge , Faillie Jean-Luc , Bezin Julien , Pariente Antoine
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Fluoroquinolones can cause severe collagen-associated adverse effects, potentially impacting the pulmonary connective tissue. We investigated the association between fluoroquinolones and spontaneous pneumothorax.

Methods

A case–time–control study was performed using the nationwide French reimbursement healthcare system database (SNDS). Cases were adults ≥18 years admitted for spontaneous pneumothorax between 2017 and 2022. For each case, fluoroquinolone use was compared between the risk period immediately preceding the admission date (days −30 to −1), and three earlier reference periods (days −180 to −151, −150 to −121, −120 to −91), adjusting for time-varying confounders. OR estimates were corrected for potential exposure-trend bias using a reference group without the event (matched on age, sex, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease history, calendar time). Amoxicillin use was studied similarly to control for indication bias.

Results

Of the 246 pneumothorax cases exposed to fluoroquinolones (63.8% men; mean age, 43.0±18.4 years), 63 were exposed in the 30-day risk period preceding pneumothorax and 128 in the reference periods. Of the 3316 amoxicillin cases (72.9% men; mean age, 39.4±17.6 years), 1210 were exposed in the 30-day risk period and 1603 in the reference ones. OR adjusted for exposure-trend and covariates was 1.59 (95% CI 1.14 to 2.22) for fluoroquinolones and 2.25 (2.07 to 2.45) for amoxicillin.

Conclusion

An increased risk of spontaneous pneumothorax was associated with both fluoroquinolone and amoxicillin use, with an even higher association for amoxicillin. This strongly suggests the role of the underlying infections rather than a causal effect of the individual antibiotics and can be considered reassuring regarding a potential lung connective toxicity of fluoroquinolones.
Restricted inclusion of wild broodstock at a large hatchery does not result in detectable genetic differentiation in a supplemented coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) population
Authors: Bull James K. , Rogers Sean M.
Published: October 2024

Hatchery production is common in salmonid management for harvest and conservation. Many hatcheries employ integrated broodstock programs, where wild-origin fish are included as broodstock and uni- or bi-directional gene flow between wild and hatchery components of the population is encouraged. Such approaches often assume that opportunistically obtained wild fish meet the genetic goals of minimizing hatchery–wild differentiation and maintaining genetic diversity. This may be incorrect if fine-scale spatial genetic structure exists. Here we investigate the population genetic consequences of such hatchery operations in coho salmon ( Oncorhynchus kisutch) in a small river system featuring a large integrated broodstock program. We do so using 11 082 SNPs scored in wild-origin and hatchery-origin fish collected throughout the system. We found no evidence for genetic differentiation between hatchery-origin and wild-origin fish, no evidence of lowered genetic diversity in hatchery-origin fish, and no evidence for genetic differentiation among fish sampled throughout the river system. In addition, we did not detect inbreeding. Collectively, these results are consistent with current practices meeting integrated hatchery program goals of adequately sampling the genetic diversity present in wild-origin fish, although they may slightly reduce the effective population size of the combined population.
Adaptive Feed-Forward Model Predictive Control for Unmanned Vehicles
Authors: Yan Zhuang , Xie Lirong , Bian Yifan , An Yi , Yang Zhiyong , Huang Deqi
Published: October 2024

To address the challenge of simultaneously achieving accuracy at low speeds and stability at high speeds in the lateral control of unmanned vehicles, this paper proposes a feed-forward adaptive weight controller based on model predictive control (FFMPC) aimed at enhancing both accuracy and adaptability during the lateral control of these vehicles. By considering the coupling characteristics of trajectory and heading errors, we derive an error dynamics model that incorporates path curvature and its rate of change into the conventional dynamics model. The main control system is constructed using a model predictive controller with decoupling characteristics, obtained through Taylor series expansion. Additionally, a Sliding Mode Controller (SMC) based on an integral proportional-integral-derivative (PID) sliding mode surface is integrated as a feed-forward component of the control system. To prevent overfitting in the controller, we define an error tolerance threshold. The front steering compensation angle is calculated using the improved preview model, which effectively adjusts the output of the primary controller and enhances system robustness under extreme operating conditions. In this study, trajectory error minimization is employed as a key performance metric for simulation. Comprehensive simulations are conducted in the Carsim and Matlab/Simulink environment under various operating scenarios for comparison and validation. The experimental results indicate that, compared to traditional controllers, the FFMPC demonstrates superior accuracy, robustness and rapid convergence of kinematic states.
Across-horizon propagation and infinite time-dilation: An independent approach to Hawking radiation
Authors: Tsoupros George
Published: October 2024

The conformal scalar propagator as an explicit function of the Schwarzschild black-hole space-time has been established in the preceding three projects. The present project examines the precise relation which that propagator has to the amplitude the Schwarzschild black hole emit a scalar particle in a particular mode of positive energy. It is thereby established that the effect of infinite time-dilation on the event horizon results in both, the thermal radiation in the background of a static exterior space-time geometry and the detraction from thermality if energy-conservation is properly imposed as a constraint on scalar propagation. The derivation of the latter signifies an equivalent approach to the result of Parikh and Wilczek from the semi-classical perspective of the distant observer. From that perspective for that matter, Hawking radiation emerges in both contexts as the exclusive consequence of infinite time-dilation on the event horizon. These results are consistent with Hawking radiation as the exclusive consequence of the causal structure of the Schwarzschild black-hole space-time both, in a static exterior geometry and in such dynamical exterior geometry as energy-conservation signifies. The extension of the thermal case to other spin-fields and black-hole geometries is discussed.
Dynamic Reliability Analysis of Continuous Girder Bridge with Fractional Order Dampers Under Non-Stationary Random Excitation
Authors: Yang Bowen , Zhang Chuanjiang , Luo Fei , Liu Shan , Jia Shaomin , Wei Zhaolan
Published: October 2024

Due to the improvement of seismic design standards, viscoelastic dampers have been rapidly developed and widely applied in bridge structures. Currently, there is limited research on dynamic reliability analysis of large bridge structures equipped with fractional-order dampers. In this paper, a hybrid method combining the time-domain explicit method and Markov process is proposed for the dynamic reliability analysis of multi-span continuous girder bridges with fractional-order dampers under non-stationary random excitation. This method introduces a fractional damping system and non-stationary random excitation to simulate both the bridge structure and external forces. The response coefficient matrix of the fractional damping structure is solved using the time-domain explicit method, and the response variance is directly calculated using the moment algorithm. The dynamic reliability analysis is then performed by applying the Markov process based on the structural response variance. Compared to traditional methods for structural dynamic reliability analysis, this approach offers higher computational efficiency and greater accuracy. By analyzing the response variance and dynamic reliability of a four-span continuous girder bridge equipped with viscoelastic dampers, the proposed method is validated using the Monte Carlo method.
EXAMINING PAIN REDUCTION AND PHYSIOLOGICAL CHANGES WITH FAR-INFRARED GRAPHENE-BASED THERMOTHERAPY IN LOW BACK PAIN MANAGEMENT
Authors: USMAN JULIANA , LEE XIN , HEW YI KEI , QING YEOH PAULINE SHAN , HAMZAH NORHAMIZAN , CHUAH JOON HUANG , LAI KHIN WEE
Published: October 2024

Lower back pain is one of the most prevalent health issues, affecting more than 80% of adults worldwide. Thermotherapy including heat wrap and dry sauna has long been utilized for pain relief and relaxation. Far-infrared graphene-based thermography is a heat therapy method where the graphene emits far-infrared rays that can penetrate human skin. However, its effects remain largely unstudied compared to conventional thermotherapy. This study investigates the impact of far-infrared graphene-based thermotherapy on healthy individuals and individuals associated with nonspecific low back pain. Over four sessions, 24 subjects undergo 30 min treatments, with measurements including body heat profiles, blood oxygen levels, joint angles, pain scales, and Oswestry scores. Results indicate increased body heat and blood oxygen levels post-treatment, alongside significant reductions in pain scores. However, changes in joint angles were not statistically significant, suggesting no immediate impact on locomotion. In conclusion, far-infrared graphene-based thermotherapy shows promise for pain relief and improved blood oxygenation, however, it has not been proven to improve locomotion.
Lie symmetry method to discuss the optimal system of Lie subalgebras and similarity solutions for shock propagation in a perfectly conducting dusty gas with magnetic field in rotating medium
Authors: Nath G. , Singh R. K.
Published: October 2024

In this paper, the similarity solutions for the shock wave propagation in a perfectly conducting dusty gas under the effect of axial or azimuthal magnetic field in the case of rotating medium by using Lie symmetry method have been discussed. The optimal system of one-dimensional Lie subalgebras related to the hyperbolic system of nonlinear partial differential equations had been constructed by using general invariant function and general adjoint transformation matrix. The optimal system is the collection of inequivalent optimal classes, which provides crucial information regarding different types of the similarity solutions. On the basis of the optimal system, we have discussed all possible similarity solutions for inequivalent optimal classes individually. Also, we have found that the similarity solutions exist in two cases for power law shock path and in one case with exponential law shock path. The shock wave decay is due to an increment in the physical parameter such as shock Cowling number or non-idealness parameter or adiabatic exponent or rotational parameter. For smaller value of the ratio of density of solid particles to initial species density of the gas i.e. [Formula: see text], the shock strength decreases with an increment in the mass fraction of solid particles in the mixture [Formula: see text], but the shock strength decreases as [Formula: see text] increases for [Formula: see text]. Also, the shock strength increases with an increment in [Formula: see text] at constant [Formula: see text]. It is observed that the shock wave is stronger in the presence of axial magnetic field as compared to azimuthal magnetic field.
Biquaternion linear canonical stockwell transform and associated uncertainty principles
Authors: Ahmad Owais , Dar Aijaz Ahmad
Published: October 2024

The intersection of geometric methods and signal processing has led to significant advancements in various fields, including physics, engineering, and mathematics. In recent years, the biquaternion domain, a generalization of complex numbers with a geometric interpretation, has emerged as a promising tool for signal analysis. This paper introduces the Biquaternion Linear Canonical Stockwell Transform (BiQLCST), a novel fusion of advanced mathematical frameworks that offers enhanced signal analysis capabilities and unveils new uncertainty principles, bridging the gap between complex transformations and uncertainty analysis in high-dimensional spaces. First, we established the various fundamental properties, including linearity, shift, modulation, parity, orthogonality relation, reconstruction formula and Plancherel’s theorem. Heisenberg uncertainty principle associated with Biquaternion Linear Canonical Stockwell Transform (BiQLCST) is also established. Toward the end, some potential applications of the BiQLCST are presented.