bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future changes in soil salinization across Central Asia under CMIP6 forcing scenarios
Authors: Dong Xin , Ding Jianli , Ge Xiangyu
Published: July 2024

Soil salinization is a critical environmental and socio‐economic concern with global implications, and its severity is expected to amplify under changing climate. The impact of climate change on salinization in Central Asia is still not fully understood. This study addresses this gap by employing a digital soil mapping (DSM) framework. Cubist, random forest (RF), and quantile regression forests (QRF) are utilized to project variations in soil surface salinity (0‐10 cm) in Central Asia from 2025 to 2100 under two shared socio‐economic pathways (SSPs): SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5. These models are developed using data from 20 global climate models (GCMs) obtained from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6). The results reveal that the RF model exhibits superior predictive capability in estimating soil salinity. RF performed on the calibration set with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.86, root mean square error (RMSE) of 9.84 and 9.90 dS m−1, ratio of performance to interquartile distance (RPIQ) of 3.09 and 3.07, and a Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) of 0.86. The multi‐GCM ensemble means revealed the potential for varying degrees of salinization in Central Asia, with higher levels predominantly observed in the southeast and southwest of the study area, particularly downstream of the river and in the lakeside areas. Temporal analysis of soil salinity evolution reveals an overall increase in salinity across the region, with more notable changes projected under SSP5‐8.5. Specifically, the projected increase rate in soil salinity for Central Asia was 0.0005 dS m−1/year under SSP2‐4.5 and 0.01 dS m−1/year under SSP5‐8.5. Turkmenistan is notable for possessing the highest regional average of soil salinity, with the exception of a declining trend observed within this area. The remaining regions of Central Asia exhibit an upward trend in average soil salinity, particularly noteworthy under the SSP5‐8.5 scenario, where variations in soil salinity are more obvious. These findings hold significant potential in enhancing our understanding of how Central Asia responds to global change, advances toward sustainable development, and enhances comprehension of the dynamics within the region.
Generating 3D images of VMAT plans for predictive models and activation maps associated with plan deliverability
Authors: Cho Hyeonjeong , Lee Jae Sung , Kim Jin Sung , Kim Deok , Chang Jee Suk , Byun Hwa Kyung , Lee Ik Jae , Kim Yong Bae , Kim Changhwan , Lee Ho , Kim Hojin
Published: July 2024

Background

Intensity modulation with dynamic multi‐leaf collimator (MLC) and monitor unit (MU) changes across control points (CPs) characterizes volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). The increased uncertainty in plan deliverability required patient‐specific quality assurance (PSQA), which remained inefficient upon Quality Assurance (QA) failure. To prevent waste before QA, plan complexity metrics (PCMs) and machine learning models with the metrics were generated, which were lack of providing CP‐specific information upon QA failures.

Purpose

By generating 3D images from digital imaging and comminications in medicine in radiation therapy (DICOM RT) plan, we proposed a predictive model that can estimate the deliverability of VMAT plans and visualize CP‐specific regions associated with plan deliverability.

Methods

The patient cohort consisted of 259 and 190 cases for left‐ and right‐breast VMAT treatments, which were split into 235 and 166 cases for training and 24 cases from each treatment for testing the networks. Three‐channel 3D images generated from DICOM RT plans were fed into a DenseNet‐based deep learning network. To reflect VMAT plan complexity as an image, the first two channels described MLC and MU variations between two consecutive CPs, while the last channel assigned the beam field size. The network output was defined as binary classified PSQA results, indicating deliverability. The predictive performance was assessed by accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1‐score, and area under the curve (AUC). The gradient‐weighted class activation map (Grad‐CAM) highlighted the regions of CPs in VMAT plans associated with deliverability, compared against PCMs by Spearman correlation.

Results

The DenseNet‐based predictive model yielded AUCs of 92.2% and 93.8%, F1‐scores of 97.0% and 93.8% and accuracies of 95.8% and 91.7% for the left‐ and right‐breast VMAT cases. Additionally, the specificity of 87.5% for both cases indicated that the predictive model accurately detected QA failing cases. The activation maps significantly differentiated QA failing‐labeled from passing‐labeled classes for the non‐deliverable cases. The PCM with the highest correlation to the Grad‐CAM varied from patient cases, implying that plan deliverability would be considered patient‐specific.

Conclusion

This work demonstrated that the deep learning‐based network based on visualization of dynamic VMAT plan information successfully predicted plan deliverability, which also provided control‐point specific planning parameter information associated with plan deliverability in a patient‐specific manner.
The efficacy and safety of monoclonal antibody therapies for interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Cao Zhi‐Gang , Li Fu‐Dong , Zhang Chun‐Lei , Luo Guo‐Xiong , Chang De‐Hui
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of monoclonal antibody therapies (MATs) for interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS).

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Embase, clinicalTrial.gov, and the Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing MATs versus placebo were included. Primary outcomes comprised the Global Response Assessment (GRA) scale and the O'Leary‐Sant Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index (ICSI). Additional analyses encompassed mean daily frequency of voids, the O'Leary‐Sant Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index, pain scores, and complications. Statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.3.

Results

Five high‐quality RCTs, comprising 263 patients with IC/BPS, were ultimately selected. MATs were generally effective in treating IC/BPS. Patients receiving MATs exhibited a higher satisfaction rate (odds ratio [OR]: 2.7, confidence interval [CI]: 1.31–5.58, p = 0.007) and lower ICSI scores (mean difference [MD]: −1.44, CI: −2.36 to −0.52, p = 0.002). Moreover, MAT recipients experienced reduced pain (MD: −0.53, CI: −0.79 to −0.26, p < 0.0001) and decreased frequency of urination (MD: −1.91, CI: −2.55 to −1.27, p < 0.00001). Importantly, there were no disparities regarding complication incidence in the MAT and control groups.

Conclusions

The current findings indicate that MATs are effective and safe for treating IC/BPS. Nonetheless, future RCTs with larger sample sizes and long‐term follow‐up are warranted.
Early bladder dysfunction after vesicovaginal fistula repair: A prospective comparative analysis of transvaginal, open, and laparoscopic abdominal approaches
Authors: Anand Madhur , Kumar Manoj , Jain Mayank , Gupta Amber , Kumar Abhijeet , Singh Bhupendra Pal , Singh Vishwajeet , Goel Apul
Published: July 2024

Introduction

We aim to compare the clinical and urodynamic profile of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients undergoing laparoscopic, open transabdominal, and laparoscopic transabdominal vesicovaginal fistulae (VVF) repair at 3 months of repair, that is, in early postoperative period.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐one consecutive patients with endoscopically confirmed VVF were enrolled in our study over 2 years. Malignant fistulae, radiation‐induced, and complex fistulae were excluded after cross‐sectional imaging. All patients underwent a postoperative assessment for the success of the repair. Then at 3 months, they completed the American Urological Association Symptom Score questionnaire and underwent a dual channel pressure‐flow urodynamic study. The results of transvaginal, laparoscopic, and open transabdominal repairs were compared.

Results

All patients belonged to the Indian Caucasian race. The mean age was 35.43 ± 6.63 years. Thirty‐two patients had supratrigonal and 19 had trigonal fistulae. Laparoscopic transabdominal repair was done in 15 patients, open transabdominal repair in 22 patients, and transvaginal repair in 14 patients. Forty‐six patients reported some LUTS at a median follow‐up of 5.83 ± 2.37 months postoperatively. Only 18 (35.2%) of these patients had moderate to severe symptoms The postoperative bladder dysfunction rates in open transabdominal, transvaginal and laparoscopic transabdominal groups were 36.4%, 28.6%, and 20%, respectively. Twenty‐seven patients (52.9%) had some urodynamic abnormality, that is, small capacity (5), high voiding pressures (14), genuine stress incontinence (3), and poor compliance (3). Bladder capacity was a significant predictor of bladder dysfunction in our patients.

Conclusions

In our study, all three surgical approaches were associated with bladder dysfunction, however, it was the least in the laparoscopic transabdominal approach. Postoperative bladder capacity is a significant predictor of bladder dysfunction.
Intelligent switching gain based sliding mode control for optimization of power consumption in cooperative manipulators
Authors: Kia Ali Parsai , Korayem Moharam Habibnejad , Lademakhi Naeim Yousefi
Published: July 2024

Cooperative manipulators, vital for intricate tasks, are gaining widespread attention across industries. Recognizing their impact on power consumption, costs, and task outcomes, this paper emphasizes the critical study of control methods, actuator power consumption, and manipulator accuracy. Addressing these challenges, we propose a neural network‐sliding mode controller (NN‐SMC) to optimize actuator power consumption and minimize errors in cooperative manipulators. Operating in trajectory and point‐to‐point modes, the NN‐SMC dynamically generates real‐time switching mode controller (SMC) gains (L and K) for precise control. Stability is ensured by maintaining gains within permissible ranges. In point‐to‐point mode, the NN orchestrates an optimal path generation, along with tailored gains. To evaluate performance accurately, a novel control performance index is introduced. Experimental results on 3‐DOF cooperative manipulators demonstrate a remarkable 28% increase in the control performance index for the trajectory mode and a substantial reduction in computational complexity for both modes. This work not only addresses inherent challenges in cooperative manipulators but also signifies a methodological advancement through the integration of neural network‐based control, promising enhanced efficiency and stability.
Low‐velocity impact characterization of polyurethane rubber/nano‐clay enriched sustainable sandwich composites: Synergy of experimentation and simulations
Authors: Gowda Darshan , Mahesh Vinyas , Mahesh Vishwas , Ravishankar K. S.
Published: July 2024

This research proposes a novel sustainable composite using basalt (B), hemp (H) and polyurethane rubber (Pu) reinforced in nano clay functionalised epoxy matrix for sacrificial structural applications prone to low‐velocity impact (LVI). To this end, symmetric and asymmetric laminates such as HHHH, BBBB, BHHB, BHPuHB, BBPuHH and BPuBPuHPuH are fabricated using compression molding techniques and subjected to LVI at three different impact energies of 19.66, 39.39, and 59.05 J. The hemp fibers were treated with NaOH solution before fabrication. Material characterization such as X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and morphological studies has been carried out. The impact and post‐impact properties of the proposed composites are experimentally evaluated and validated with the finite element (FE) results. The effect on the residual tensile strength degradation of laminates at different interlayers and energy levels is also investigated using the Caprino analytical model. The barely visible impact damages (BVID) are investigated through non‐destructive dye‐penetration tests, which facilitate easy identification of the prominent LVI damages like “Plateau” and “Cliff‐drop” impressions. Based on the impact energy absorption and residual tensile strength, proposed laminates followed BHPuHB > BBBB > BHHB > HHHH. The experimentation suggests that Polyurethane core laminates support maximum impact energy absorption by favoring a structural change in interlayers. Also, the residual tensile strength decreases as impact velocity increases.

Highlights

Low‐velocity impact behavior of sustainable composites is experimented.

Basalt, hemp and polyurethane rubber are reinforced in nano clay epoxy matrix.

A FE framework to validate the experimentation is proposed.

Dye penetrant NDT is adopted to investigate the damages.

Morphological studies are conducted to understand LVI responses.
Epitaxial Growth of Nano‐Sized Pb Islands on SrTiO3 Substrate: Competition Between Electron Correlation and Enhanced Superconductivity
Authors: Shao Zhibin , Sun Haigen , Cao Yan , Zhang Zongyuan , Li Shaojian , Zhang Xin , Bian Qi , Gedeon Habakubaho , Yuan Hui , Pan Minghu
Published: July 2024

The discovery of the interface‐enhanced superconductivity in the single‐layer film of FeSe epitaxially grown on SrTiO3 substrates has triggered a flurry of activity in the field of superconductivity. It raised the hope to find more conventional high transition temperature (Tc) superconductors that are purely driven by the electron‐phonon interaction at ambient pressure. Here the epitaxial growth of the Pb nano‐sized islands on SrTiO3 (001) substrates with the island volumes ranging from 286 to 4945 nm3 is reported by molecular beam epitaxy, followed by systematic scanning tunneling microscopic/spectroscopic (STM/S) investigation. The observed STS gap for the nanoscale islands highly dependent on the volumes of nano‐sized islands, can be divided into three regions. By performing a detailed spectroscopic investigation, it is founded that superconductivity in the volume above 3700 nm3 (Region I) has a zero temperature energy gap (Δ(0)) and Tc of 6.8 meV and 9.8 K obtained by BCS fitting, showing the largely‐enhanced Δ and slightly‐increased Tc by comparing to the bulk Pb (1.4 meV and 7.2 K). As the volume in the range from 1300 to 3700 nm3 (Region II), a large Coulomb gap induced by electron correlation emerged and shows a volume‐dependent behavior, suggesting the reduced size can enhance electron correlation in Pb islands. As the volume decreases down to Region III, enhanced electron correlation and Coulomb gap become more dominant and superconductivity is totally suppressed. The experiment reveals that an electron‐electron interaction in nano‐sized Pb islands can be significantly enhanced by reducing the island sizes and suppresses the superconductivity, thus demonstrates a competition between superconductivity and electron correlation as the volume varies.
A review of robot‐assisted ultrasound examination: Systems and technology
Authors: Du Haiyan , Zhang Xinran , Zhang Yongde , Zhang Fujun , Lin Letao , Huang Tao
Published: July 2024

Background

At present, the number and overall level of ultrasound (US) doctors cannot meet the medical needs, and the medical ultrasound robots will largely solve the shortage of medical resources.

Methods

According to the degree of automation, the handheld, semi‐automatic and automatic ultrasound examination robot systems are summarised. Ultrasound scanning path planning and robot control are the keys to ensure that the robot systems can obtain high‐quality images. Therefore, the ultrasound scanning path planning and control methods are summarised. The research progress and future trends are discussed.

Results

A variety of ultrasound robot systems have been applied to various medical works. With the continuous improvement of automation, the systems provide high‐quality ultrasound images and image guidance for clinicians.

Conclusion

Although the development of medical ultrasound robot still faces challenges, with the continuous progress of robot technology and communication technology, medical ultrasound robot will have great development potential and broad application space.
Resilience in the face of ecological challenges: Strategies for integrating environmental considerations into social policy planning in Africa
Authors: Adebayo Waidi Gbenro
Published: July 2024

Africa faces severe ecological crises, such as climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss, undermining sustainable development efforts and exacerbating poverty and hunger. Integrating environmental concerns into social policy planning could help build community resilience and support sustainable development. This study employed policy analysis and stakeholder engagement to identify key environmental issues, policy gaps, and strategies for integrating environmental considerations into social policies across various sectors in Africa. The study found a significant lack of integration of environmental concerns into social policy across areas like disaster management, agriculture, urban planning, healthcare access, and infrastructure development policies. As a percentage of respondents, the top environmental issues were flooding (32%), drought/desertification (13%), and food security/agriculture (11%), with farmers (35.4%) and women (21.7%) being the most vulnerable to climate change. Most community stakeholders (87.5%) emphasized the importance of integrating environmental considerations into social policy, with 56.25% rating it a high priority. They underscored the need for more locally driven planning, ecological monitoring, land restoration, diversified livelihoods, and climate change adaptation support through social policies to enhance environmental sustainability. This study's novelty lies in its comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing the complex interplay between environmental challenges and social policy planning in Africa. The findings emphasize the urgent need for policymakers to develop cross‐sectoral national and local policies that use participatory processes to prioritize environmental sustainability, adaptation, community empowerment, and alignment with sustainable development goals while being responsive to continuing environmental uncertainty and change.
Using system dynamics to support a functional exercise for pandemic preparedness and response
Authors: Green Caroline , Beishuizen Berend , Stein Mart , Rovers Chantal P. , Tostmann Alma , de Jong Daan L. K. , Houareau Claudia , Perseke Knut , Spieker Clara , Grote Ulrike , Csornai Patrick , Tighe Carlos , Hayes Conor , Andrade Jair , Connolly Máire A. , Duggan Jim
Published: July 2024

In pandemic preparedness and response, a Functional Exercise (FX) is used to simulate a situation as close to a real‐life event as possible without the deployment of resources. Participants are drawn from public health emergency operations centres, and work through a scenario script to test possible responses to a novel pathogen outbreak. This paper summarises the role of system dynamics modelling in the design and implementation of a functional exercise, which involved the Dutch and German national public health institutes in March 2023. The findings confirm the value of the system dynamics method in integrating disease and hospital models, and also highlights how well the method aligns with modern software development processes. The paper concludes with a discussion of what worked well, and presents areas for future enhancements of management flight simulators to support functional exercises. © 2024 The Author(s). System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
Anthocyanin‐Enhanced Bacterial Cellulose Nanofibers for Sustainable Hg(II) Ion Sensing
Authors: Minabi‐Nezhad Mehran , Moeinpour Farid , Mohseni‐Shahri Fatemeh S.
Published: July 2024

Hg(II), poses a significant threat to both the environment and overall well‐being. The present indicator utilizes anthocyanin extract from roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), RSE, and incorporates it into bacterial cellulose nanofibers (BCNF) to detect Hg(II) ions. Through examination of the CIE Lab color variables, it is determined that the binding of Hg(II) leads to a discernible alteration in the color. The visible color changes as the Hg(II) concentration increases. ATR‐FTIR(Attenuated Total Reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and SEM(scanning electron microscopy) are utilized to analyze the bacterial cellulose nanofibers containing anthocyanin. The selectivity of the proposed sensor is assessed by conducting experiments with different types of metal ions including Co2+, Al3+, Na+, Ba2+, Ni2+, Mg2+, Cd2+, Pb2+, Fe2+, Fe3+, and Cu2+. The outcomes indicate that the sensor exhibits a remarkable ability to distinguish and respond specifically to Hg(II) ions. This particular sensing technique allows for the precise and reliable detection of Hg(II), with a detection limit of 0.72 ppm, by simply observing with the naked eye. For the effective treatment of a tap water sample, the BCNF‐RSE film provides successful results in the detection of Hg(II) ions. This innovative metallochromic sensor offers a promising solution for the on‐site, cost‐effective, portable, easy to use, and real‐time detection of Hg(II) ions.
An integrative taxonomy of Asian Caryodaphnopsis (Lauraceae) based on morphology and phylogenomics
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Sun Tiantian , Omollo Wyckliffe Omondi , Le Chi Toan , Nguyen Van Hieu , Chen Zhiduan , Lin Qinwen , Yang Yong , Liu Bing
Published: July 2024

Caryodaphnopsis is a small genus of the Lauraceae family with disjunct distribution in tropical Asia and tropical America. Taxa from each region form a well­supported monophyletic clade. However, the species circumscription in Asian Caryodaphnopsis remains ambiguous due to few and generally unstable morphological characters used for classification. To address this, we conducted an integrative taxonomy of the Asian clade. We investigated 13 populations, sampled 57 accessions covering the entire taxonomic diversity, geographic range, and morphological variation in Asia, and reconstructed a new phylogeny using single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. We obtained a well‐resolved phylogeny of the Asian Caryodaphnopsis. The first diverged clade consists of three species endemic to lowland forests. The second (largest) clade (eight species in total) mainly occurs in limestone mountain forests and has a double‐layered lower leaf epidermis morphology of type 2 (less complete roomy with closed “roof”) and type 3 (complete roomy with closed “roof”). Based on the diagnostic morphological characters, distinct distributional ranges, and monophyly of each clade, we recognize 12 species in the Asian Caryodaphnopsis, including three new species: C. cangyuanensis sp. nov., C. hekouensis sp. nov., and C. rubrinervis sp. nov. We also reinstate C. latifolia, and re‐circumscribe the widespread C. tonkinensis and other species based on fruit and inflorescence morphology and molecular evidence.
Paraganglioma in the bladder wall: A case report
Authors: Freires Thabata S. , Pereira João Marco B. S. M. , Capuzi Eder Roberto A. , Coelho Otávio C. , Silva Rodrigo D. B. , Maciel Luiz Carlos
Published: July 2024

Background

Pheochromocytomas are tumors originating from chromaffin cells and producing catecholamines. In 10%–20% of cases, these tumors act outside of the adrenal medulla, defining conglomerates named paragangliomas. Bladder paraganglioma is a rare tumor and accounts for less than 0.06% of all bladder neoplasms and less than 1% of all pheochromocytomas, with the first case described in 1953. The clinical procedure given by 47%–77% of the overall number of cases, consists of headache 48.1%, tachycardia 43.4%, hypertension 54.7%, hematuria 47.2%, and visual alterations.

Case Presentation

The article reports a case of a patient whose lesion was identified in the lateral wall of the bladder during a prostate ultrasonography exam, and was subsequently treated surgically with a partial cystectomy. The aim of this study is to detail the diagnosis and treatment of a patient with bladder paraganglioma.

Conclusion

From the overall study conducted in this article, it is possible to conclude that paraganglioma requires adequate diagnostic and therapeutic methods. These methods include ultrasounds and computed tomography scans, followed by cystoscopy with visualization and biopsy of the lesion, and resection of the lesion.
Temporal and spatial variation in the direct and indirect effects of climate on reproduction in alpine populations of Ranunculus acris L
Authors: Vassvik Linn , Vandvik Vigdis , Östman Silje Andrea Hjortland , Nielsen Anders , Halbritter Aud H.
Published: July 2024

Plant reproduction in alpine environments is affected by climate both directly through climate impacts on growth and phenology, and indirectly through impacts on the biotic interactions affecting pollination success. These effects can be highly variable in time and space. In this study we investigated how different abiotic and biotic factors influence reproductive investment and success in populations of Ranunculus acris across an alpine landscape over a two-year period. In an alpine area at Finse, southern Norway, we measured reproductive investment (total seed mass) and reproductive success (seed-set rate) in 38 sites differing in temperature (related to elevation) and length of the growing season (related to time of snowmelt). To assess biotic interactions, we measured floral density and pollinator visits and conducted a supplemental pollen experiment. Reproductive investment and success increased with temperature, but only when floral density and/or number of pollinator visits was high, and only in the warmer year (2016). Reproduction in R. acris was pollen-limited in both years, especially at warmer temperature and in sites with early snowmelt. Pollinator visits increased with temperature and with higher floral density, suggesting a shift in relative importance of the biotic factors (from plants to pollinators) in limiting reproduction with increasing temperature. Our study shows that reproductive investment and success in R. acris is affected by climate through the interactive effects of abiotic and biotic processes. These effects vary between years and across the landscape, suggesting a potential for larger-scale buffering of climate change effects in heterogeneous landscapes.
Limited impact of traumatic brain injury on the post-traumatic inflammatory cellular response
Authors: van Eerten F. J.C. , de Fraiture E. J. , Duebel L. V. , Vrisekoop N. , van Wessem K. J.P. , Koenderman L. , Hietbrink F.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Trauma triggers a systemic inflammatory cellular response due to tissue damage, potentially leading to a secondary immune deficiency. Trauma severity is quantified by the Injury Severity Score (ISS). Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is associated with high ISSs due to high lethality, despite limited tissue damage. Therefore, ISS might overestimate the post-traumatic inflammatory cellular response. This study investigated the effect of TBI on the occurrence of different systemic neutrophil phenotypes as alternative read-out for systemic inflammation.

Methods

A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted at a level-1 trauma center. Patients aged ≥ 18 years, admitted between 01-03-2021–01-11-2022 and providing a diagnostic blood sample were included. Four groups were created: isolated TBI, isolated non-TBI, multitrauma TBI and multitrauma non-TBI. Primary outcome was occurrence of different neutrophil phenotypes determined by automated flow cytometry. Secondary outcome was infectious complications.

Results

In total, 404 patients were included. TBI and non-TBI patients demonstrated similar occurrences of different neutrophil phenotypes. However, isolated TBI patients had higher ISSs than their isolated non-TBI controls who suffered similar post-traumatic inflammatory cellular responses. Regardless of the type of injury, patients exhibiting higher systemic inflammation had a high infection risk.

Conclusion

When TBI is involved, ISS tends to be higher compared to similar patients in the absence of TBI. However, TBI patients did not demonstrate an increased inflammatory cellular response compared to non-TBI patients. Therefore, TBI does not add much to the inflammatory cellular response in trauma patients. The degree of the inflammatory response was related to the incidence of infectious complications.
Rupture of an accessory spleen caused by blunt trauma
Authors: Grochowska Agata , Arkuszewski Piotr
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The accessory spleen is quite a common abdominal anomaly. However, the traumatic accessory spleen rupture is an extremely rare condition requiring surgical intervention, even laparotomy. 9 cases of traumatic accessory spleen were found published between 1962 and 2022. The study aims to evaluate traumatic accessory spleen rupture cases regarding their causes, clinical course, and possible diagnosis without surgery and treatment.

Methods

Desk research method using available online databases. Descriptive methods were employed to analyze the collected data. The results are summarized in the Table concerning gender, age, injury details, accessory spleen injury characteristics, treatment, and others such as previous splenectomy or primary spleen involvement in injury or accompanying abdominal injuries.

Results

In total, there were 9 cases of traumatic accessory spleen, of which 2 were managed conservatively and the remaining 7 were treated operatively. All the patients survived. One-third of all included patients already had their primary spleen removed, which facilitated the diagnosis of traumatic rupture of an accessory spleen. The proper diagnosis of an accessory spleen rupture was concluded in 2 cases and confirmed in surgery.

Conclusion

The recognition of the traumatic rupture of an accessory spleen before surgery is challenging but can be made easier if the patient underwent splenectomy before. The traumatic accessory spleen rupture does not coexist with an injury of a primary spleen.
Genome-wide atlas of rust resistance loci in wheat
Authors: Tong Jingyang , Zhao Cong , Liu Dan , Jambuthenne Dilani T. , Sun Mengjing , Dinglasan Eric , Periyannan Sambasivam K. , Hickey Lee T. , Hayes Ben J.
Published: July 2024

Rust diseases, including leaf rust, stripe/yellow rust, and stem rust, significantly impact wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yields, causing substantial economic losses every year. Breeding and deployment of cultivars with genetic resistance is the most effective and sustainable approach to control these diseases. The genetic toolkit for wheat breeders to select for rust resistance has rapidly expanded with a multitude of genetic loci identified using the latest advances in genomics, mapping and cloning strategies. The goal of this review was to establish a wheat genome atlas that provides a comprehensive summary of reported loci associated with rust resistance. Our atlas provides a summary of mapped quantitative trait loci (QTL) and characterised genes for the three rusts from 170 publications over the past two decades. A total of 920 QTL or resistance genes were positioned across the 21 chromosomes of wheat based on the latest wheat reference genome (IWGSC RefSeq v2.1). Interestingly, 26 genomic regions contained multiple rust loci suggesting they could have pleiotropic effects on two or more rust diseases. We discuss a range of strategies to exploit this wealth of genetic information to efficiently utilise sources of resistance, including genomic information to stack desirable and multiple QTL to develop wheat cultivars with enhanced resistance to rust disease.
Subconjunctival aflibercept inhibits corneal angiogenesis and VEGFR-3+CD11b+ cells
Authors: Yoon Chang Ho , Ko Jung Hwa , Lee Hyun Ju , Song Hyun Beom , Oh Joo Youn
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effects of subconjunctival injection of aflibercept, a soluble protein decoy for VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, on corneal angiogenesis and VEGFR-expressing CD11b+ cells in a mouse model of suture-induced corneal neovascularization.

Methods

Corneal neovascularization was induced in BALB/c mice by placing three sutures on the cornea. Immediately after surgery, either 200 µg aflibercept (5 µL) or an equal volume of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was administered into the subconjunctival space. Seven days after later, corneal new vessels were quantified through clinical examination and measurement of the CD31-stained area in corneal flat mounts. The levels of pro-angiogenic and inflammatory markers in the cornea were evaluated using RT-qPCR. The percentages of VEGFR-2+CD11b+ cells and VEGFR-3+CD11b+ cells were analyzed in the cornea, blood, and draining cervical lymph nodes (DLNs) using flow cytometry.

Results

Subconjunctival injection of aflibercept significantly reduced the growth of corneal new vessels compared to subconjunctival PBS injection. The mRNA levels of Cd31, vascular growth factors (Vegfc and Angpt1), and pro-angiogenic/inflammatory markers (Tek/Tie2, Mrc1, Mrc2, and Il6) in the cornea were downregulated by subconjunctival aflibercept. Also, the percentage of VEGFR-3+CD11b+ cells in the cornea, blood, and DLNs was decreased by aflibercept, whereas that of VEGFR-2+CD11b+ cells was unaffected.

Conclusion

Subconjunctival aflibercept administration inhibits inflammatory angiogenesis in the cornea and reduces the numbers of cornea-infiltrating and circulating VEGFR-3+CD11b+ cells.
Fluorescence confocal microscopy for evaluation of fresh surgical specimens and consecutive tumor cell isolation in rare pediatric tumors
Authors: Gretser S. , Kinzler M. N. , Theilen T. M. , Wild P. J. , Vogler M. , Gradhand E.
Published: July 2024

Fluorescence confocal microscopy (FCM) is an optical technique that uses laser light sources of different wavelengths to generate real-time images of fresh, unfixed tissue specimens. FCM allows histological evaluation of fresh tissue samples without the associated cryo artifacts after frozen sectioning. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate pediatric tumor specimens and assess their suitability for fresh tumor sampling. In addition, we aimed to determine whether tumor cell isolation for stable cell culture is still feasible after FCM imaging. Pediatric tumor specimens were imaged using FCM. Tumor viability and suitability for tissue sampling were evaluated and compared with H&E staining after paraffin embedding. In addition, FCM-processed and non-FCM-processed tissue samples were sent for tumor cell isolation to evaluate possible effects after FCM processing. When comparing estimated tumor cell viability using FCM and H&E, we found good to excellent correlating estimates (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.891, p < 0.001), as well as substantial agreement in whether the tissue appeared adequate for fresh tissue collection (κ = 0.762, p < 0.001). After FCM, seven out of eight samples yielded passable cell cultures, compared to eight out of eight for non-FCM processed samples. Our study suggests that the use of FCM in tumor sampling can increase the yield of suitable fresh tumor samples by identifying viable tumor areas and ensuring that sufficient tissue remains for diagnosis. Our study also provides first evidence that the isolation and growth of tumor cells in culture are not compromised by the FCM technique.
Interaction between spiders and ticks—ancient arthropod predatory behavior?
Authors: de la Fuente José , Estrada-Peña Agustín , Labruna Marcelo B. , Szabó Matias P. J.
Published: July 2024

Ticks are ectoparasite vectors of pathogens affecting human and animal health worldwide. Rational integration of different control interventions including plant-derived repellents and acaricides, management of natural predators, and vaccines is required for innovative approaches to reduce the risks associated with ticks and tick-borne diseases. How tick populations are naturally controlled is always a question. Tick interactions with other arthropods including predators evolved from ancient times. In this study, Cretaceous (ca. 100 Mya) Burmese amber inclusions were identified as probably related to Compluriscutula vetulum (Acari: Ixodida: Ixodidae) tick larvae and spider silk. As illustrated in this study, ancient interactions between ticks and spiders may support arthropod predatory behavior as a natural control intervention. Rational integrative management of different tick control interventions including natural predators under a One Health perspective will contribute to effectively and sustainably reducing the risks associated with ticks and tick-borne diseases.
TSDSystem: a framework to collect, archive and share time series data at volcanological observatories
Authors: Cassisi Carmelo , Aliotta Marco , Cannata Andrea , Pistagna Fabrizio , Prestifilippo Michele , Torrisi Mario , Montalto Placido
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a framework designed to collect, archive, and share time series data coming from sensor networks at Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Osservatorio Etneo (Italy), which we have developed and called Time Series Database management System (TSDSystem). The framework proposes a flexible database model for the standardization of sensor networks data and implements an optimized technology for storage and retrieval of acquired time series data. It is designed for the implementation of multiparametric databases and then suitable for development in volcanological observatories worldwide. The proposed framework provides a web service to perform writing and reading data via a standard web communication protocol, which easily enables interaction with other instruments or automatic systems. All results provided by the TSDSystem web service are represented using common data formats in the context of online services. In particular, the station networks metadata representation follows a schema inspired by the International Federation of Digital Seismograph Networks, widely known in seismology. A web GUI (graphical user interface) is provided to test and document the web service. Additionally, basic built-in web applications are supplied with the web GUI to perform joint and synchronized time series data visualization as well as representation of stations on a geographical map. The web GUI also offers administration tools for data access policy management, creation of monitoring dashboards and data publication through web pages. The framework implements an authorization system that can be used to restrict both writing or reading operations. The TSDSystem can also be a useful tool for engineering surveillance systems. The implementing code of the framework is available with an open source license on a public repository together with a user manual.
Current insights on social media as a tool for the dissemination of research and education in surgery: a narrative review
Authors: Yamamoto Takehito , Goto Kentaro , Kitano Shoichi , Maeshima Yurina , Yamada Toshiyuki , Azuma Yoko , Okumura Shintaro , Kawakubo Naonori , Tanaka Eiji , Obama Kazutaka , Taura Kojiro , Terajima Hiroaki , Tajiri Tatsuro
Published: July 2024

The purpose of our narrative review is to summarize the utilization of social media (SoMe) platforms for research communication within the field of surgery. We searched the PubMed database for articles in the last decade that discuss the utilization of SoMe in surgery and then categorized the diverse purposes of SoMe. SoMe proved to be a powerful tool for disseminating articles. Employing strategic methods like visual abstracts enhances article citation rates, the impact factor, h-index, and Altmetric score (an emerging alternative metric that comprehensively and instantly quantifies the social impact of scientific papers). SoMe also proved valuable for surgical education, with online videos shared widely for surgical training. However, it is essential to acknowledge the associated risk of inconsistency in quality. Moreover, SoMe facilitates discussion on specific topics through hashtags or closed groups and is instrumental in recruiting surgeons, with over half of general surgery residency programs in the US efficiently leveraging these platforms to attract the attention of potential candidates. Thus, there is a wealth of evidence supporting the effective use of SoMe for surgeons. In the contemporary era where SoMe is widely utilized, surgeons should be well-versed in this evidence.
Focused review on factors affecting martensitic stainless steels and super martensitic stainless steel passive film in the oil and gas field
Authors: Malik Shoaib , Radwan Ahmed Bahgat , Al-Qahtani Noora , Abdullah Aboubakr , Haddad Muhsen El , Case Raymundo , Castaneda Homero , Al-Thani Noora , Bhadra Jolly
Published: July 2024

Martensitic and super martensitic stainless steels are widely used in the oil and gas industry for general corrosion mitigation in the presence of sweet corrosion (CO2) and sour corrosion (H2S), providing a cost-effective alternative to more expensive exotic corrosion-resistant alloys. Martensitic stainless steel is an approved material for construction when selecting tubular CO2 injection wells. This work aims to review the published literature on the subject of the operation limits of martensitic stainless steel and super martensitic stainless steel in high temperatures and high pressure under corrosive environments. Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) and sulfide stress corrosion cracking (SSCC) mechanisms on martensitic and super martensitic stainless steel surfaces are thoroughly analyzed. In this review paper, we have analyzed the factors that play a crucial role in passive film growth and passivity breakdown. The present work is to review the state of the art of mechanism responsible for SCC and SSCC susceptibility in different modified martensitic stainless steel materials, which are applied to the industry and lab scale. We have reviewed the effect of different concentrations of molybdenum content on SCC and SSCC susceptibility of conventional martensitic stainless steel, modified martensitic stainless steel, and super martensitic stainless steel. The effect of tempering temperature on the SCC and SSCC performance of the martensitic and super martensitic stainless steel was also studied. We also studied the effect of different concentrations of chromium on the improved corrosion-resistant properties and stability of passivation film.
High-resolution harvester data for estimating rolling resistance and forest trafficability
Authors: Salmivaara Aura , Holmström Eero , Kulju Sampo , Ala-Ilomäki Jari , Virjonen Petra , Nevalainen Paavo , Heikkonen Jukka , Launiainen Samuli
Published: July 2024

Information on terrain conditions is a prerequisite for planning environmentally and economically sustainable forest harvesting operations that avoid negative impact on soils. Current soil data are coarse, and collecting such data with traditional methods is expensive. Forest harvesters can be harnessed to estimate the rolling resistance coefficient ($$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

), which is a proxy for forest trafficability. Using spatio-temporal data on engine power used, speed travelled, and machine inclination, $$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

can be computed for harvest areas. This study describes an extensive, high-resolution data on $$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

collected in a boreal forest landscape in Southern Finland during the non-frost period of 2021, covering roughly 50 km of harvester routes. We report improvements in removing some of the previous restrictions on calculating $$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

on steeper slopes, enabling the calculation within a $$-10^{\circ }$$

-

10
∘

 to $$+10^{\circ }$$

+

10
∘

  slope range with a speed range of 0.6–1.2 ms$$^{-1}$$

-
1

. We characterise the variation in $$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

both between and within 11 test sites harvested during the April-August period. The site mean $$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

varies from $$\sim$$
∼
 0.14 to 0.19 and shows significant differences between the sites. Using simulations of the hydrological state of the soil and open spatial data on forest and topography, we identify features that best explain the extremes of $$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

within the sites. Several wetness-related indices, such as the depth-to-water index with varying thresholds, explain the $$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

extremes, while biomass-related stand attributes indirectly explain these through their linkage to site and soil characteristics. Obtaining $$\mu _{RR}$$

μ

RR

from actual operational data extends the capabilities of large-scale harvester-based data collection and paves the way for building data-driven models for trafficability prediction.
Botanical composition gradients in silvopastoral systems on temperate native grasslands of Uruguay
Authors: Pizarro D. M. , Zarza R. , Boggiano P. , Cadenazzi M. , Picasso V. D.
Published: July 2024

Silvopastoral systems may provide important production and environmental benefits. The loss of cool-season (C3) grasses from temperate grazed native grasslands is associated with selective grazing and excessive solar radiation that limit their survival. Silvopastoral systems integrate trees with grasslands that provide shade to both cattle and herbaceous plants, potentially favoring C3 species. There is limited information about the effect of trees on the species and functional composition of native grasslands in the Campos biome in South America. The objective of this study was to detect gradients in the botanical composition of grasslands as affected by changes in the shade associated with distance to the trees and cardinal orientation in three situations defined by the combination of soil and tree species (Prosopis on Solonetz, Acacia on Brunisols, and Eucalyptus on Brunisols). Soil cover of the herbaceous species under trees was recorded in double transects located in the four cardinal directions. In all situations there were changes in pasture composition in the different shaded regions (total shade, partial shade, or full sun). Under the canopy, there was an increase of cool-season grasses such as Bromus catharticus Vahl, Lolium multiflorum Lam., Stipa hyalina (Nees) Barkworth, and S. setigera J.Presl. At greater distances from trees, cover of warm-season grasses, such as Axonopus affinis Chase and Paspalum notatum Flueggé increased. These gradients suggest that trees in silvopastoral systems can increase the abundance of cool-season species and potentially improve the forage nutritive value of the native pasture.