bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The textures of sarcoidosis: quantifying lung disease through variograms
Authors: Lippitt William L , Maier Lisa A , Fingerlin Tasha E , Lynch David A , Yadav Ruchi , Rieck Jared , Hill Andrew C , Liao Shu-Yi , Mroz Margaret M , Barkes Briana Q , Ju Chae Kum , Jeon Hwang Hye , Carlson Nichole E
Published: December 2024

Objective. Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease affecting the lungs in over 90% of patients. Qualitative assessment of chest CT by radiologists is standard clinical practice and reliable quantification of disease from CT would support ongoing efforts to identify sarcoidosis phenotypes. Standard imaging feature engineering techniques such as radiomics suffer from extreme sensitivity to image acquisition and processing, potentially impeding generalizability of research to clinical populations. In this work, we instead investigate approaches to engineering variogram-based features with the intent to identify a robust, generalizable pipeline for image quantification in the study of sarcoidosis. Approach. For a cohort of more than 300 individuals with sarcoidosis, we investigated 24 feature engineering pipelines differing by decisions for image registration to a template lung, empirical and model variogram estimation methods, and feature harmonization for CT scanner model, and subsequently 48 sets of phenotypes produced through unsupervised clustering. We then assessed sensitivity of engineered features, phenotypes produced through unsupervised clustering, and sarcoidosis disease signal strength to pipeline. Main results. We found that variogram features had low to mild association with scanner model and associations were reduced by image registration. For each feature type, features were also typically robust to all pipeline decisions except image registration. Strength of disease signal as measured by association with pulmonary function testing and some radiologist visual assessments was strong (optimistic AUC ≈ 0.9,

p
≪
0.0001

in models for architectural distortion, conglomerate mass, fibrotic abnormality, and traction bronchiectasis) and fairly consistent across engineering approaches regardless of registration and harmonization for CT scanner. Significance. Variogram-based features appear to be a suitable approach to image quantification in support of generalizable research in pulmonary sarcoidosis.
A comparative study of experimental and simulated ultrasound beam propagation through cranial bones
Authors: Krokhmal Alisa , Simcock Ian C , Treeby Bradley E , Martin Eleanor
Published: December 2024

Objective. Transcranial ultrasound is used in a variety of treatments, including neuromodulation, opening the blood–brain barrier, and high intensity focused ultrasound therapies. To ensure safety and efficacy of these treatments, numerical simulations of the ultrasound field within the brain are used for treatment planning and evaluation. This study investigates the accuracy of numerical modelling of the propagation of focused ultrasound through cranial bones. Approach. Holograms of acoustic fields after propagation through four human skull specimens were measured for frequencies ranging from 270 kHz to 1 MHz, using both quasi-continuous and pulsed modes. The open-source k-Wave toolbox was employed for simulations, using an equivalent-source hologram and a uniform bowl source with parameters that best matched the measured free-field pressure distribution. Main results. The average absolute error in k-Wave simulations with sound speed and density derived from CT scans compared to measurements was 15% for the spatial-peak acoustic pressure amplitude, 2.7 mm for the position of the focus, and 35% for the focal volume. Optimised uniform bowl sources achieved calculation accuracy comparable to that of the hologram sources. Significance. This method is demonstrated as a suitable tool for prediction of focal position, size and overall distribution of transcranial ultrasound fields. The accuracy of the shape and position of the focal region demonstrate the suitability of the sound speed and density mapping used here. However, large errors in pressure amplitude and transmission loss in some individual cases show that alternative methods for mapping individual skull attenuation are needed and the possibility of considerable errors in pressure amplitude should be taken into account when planning focused ultrasound studies or interventions in the human brain, and appropriate safety margins should be used.
DFT and SCAPS-1D simulation of single-layer and bilayer perovskite solar cells: Ca3BiI3 and Sr3BiI3
Authors: Benahmedi Lakhdar , Besbes Anissa , Djelti Radouan , Moulebhar Samia
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the structural, electronic, elastic, and optical properties of the inorganic perovskites Ca3BiI3 and Sr3BiI3 using density functional theory (DFT) with the Wien2k code. The optimized lattice parameters are 6.38 Å for Ca3BiI3 and 6.69 Å for Sr3BiI3. The calculated band gaps using the generalized gradient approximation-Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof functional are 1.36 eV for Ca3BiI3 and 1.30 eV for Sr3BiI3, which increase to 1.79 eV and 1.61 eV, respectively, after applying the TB-mBJ correction. Both materials are dynamically stable, confirmed through formation energy and phonon dispersion analysis, and mechanically stable based on Born criteria. Optical analysis shows strong absorption in the visible range, with Ca3BiI3 slightly outperforming Sr3BiI3, making both candidates for photovoltaic applications. In the second part, we simulate the performance of these perovskites in single-layer and bilayer solar cells, with Ca3BiI3 as the top absorber and Sr3BiI3 as the bottom. By optimizing the bilayer device, we achieve an efficiency of up to 28.37%, with a VOC of 1.36 V, a fill factor of 89.78%, and a short-circuit current density (J
SC) of 23.14 mA cm−2.
Modeling the 3-point correlation function of projected scalar fields on the sphere
Authors: Arvizu Abraham , Aviles Alejandro , Hidalgo Juan Carlos , Moreno Eladio , Niz Gustavo , Rodriguez-Meza Mario A. , Samario Sofía ,   The LSST Dark Energy Science collaboration
Published: December 2024

One of the main obstacles for the signal extraction of the three point correlation function using photometric surveys, such as the Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST), will be the prohibitive computation time required for dealing with a vast quantity of sources. Brute force algorithms, which naively scales as 𝒪(N
3) with the number of objects, can be further improved with tree methods but not enough to deal with large scale correlations of Rubin's data. However, a harmonic basis decomposition of these higher order statistics reduces the time dramatically, to scale as a two-point correlation function with the number of objects, so that the signal can be extracted in a reasonable amount of time. In this work, we aim to develop the framework to use these expansions within the Limber approximation for scalar (or spin-0) fields, such as galaxy counts, weak lensing convergence or aperture masses. We develop an estimator to extract the signal from catalogs and different phenomenological and theoretical models for its description. The latter includes halo model and standard perturbation theory, to which we add a simple effective field theory prescription based on the short range of non-locality of cosmic fields, significantly improving the agreement with simulated data. In parallel to the modeling of the signal, we develop a code that can efficiently calculate three points correlations of more than 200 million data points (a full sky simulation with Nside=4096) in ∼40 minutes, or even less than 10 minutes using an approximation in the searching algorithm, on a single high-performance computing node, enabling a feasible analysis for the upcoming LSST data.
Weedbot: Weed Easy Extraction Using Deep Learning with a Robotic System
Authors: Ilangovan P. , Meena K. , Sharmila Begum M.
Published: December 2024

Weeds refer to plants that a farmer does not intentionally cultivate because they interfere with or limit the growth and yield of crops. Due to their fast reproduction and spreading, weeds are well-known for quickly increasing in population over large areas. From the very beginning of the agricultural revolution, weed control used to be done by hand but as time and technology advanced so did methods for managing unwanted plants. Human Intervention or using a single-row weed cutter, weeds are removed from fields. Due to the difficulties of eliminating the background class from the image and increasing the accuracy of the navigation system of the bot, as well as the fact that it does not support the technique of extracting weeds from paddy fields, a vehicle method for removing weeds from the field has not been created. These difficulties have been tackled by combining computer vision with automation, minimizing the need for human exertion. The project aims to create a robotic chopper that deal with weeds and employ CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) algorithm for image categorization of weeds and crops. We use image processing techniques in the proposed system to identify weeds. The system is trained with 590 images of weeds and crops, and testing is performed with 254 images. The system obtained an accuracy of 80% towards processing weeds and then chopped by the robotic arm. The robotic arm cutter that has great precision and is simple to operate, inexpensive and does not require hazardous chemicals.
Measuring the toughness of weld joints on a tensile test machine
Authors: Martinkovič M , Kovačócy P , Šimeková B
Published: December 2024

In the tensile strength of weld joints, the sample breaks at the point of least strength or at the point of the defect. If there is a fracture of the basic material, we do not get an overview of the strength of the individual parts of the weld joint. For that reason, a shear test has been developed. This process implies that it would be possible to measure shear strength and toughness in butt welds of base materials, in different places of the heat affected zone and the weld metal. Mechanical properties of the welded joint can be characterized by determination of strength and from the force-displacement dependence by the toughness. The fracture in the shape of the S curve subsequently causes a reduction in the gradient of the decrease in force by mutual friction with the created surface, which increases the value of the measured fracture energy. Therefore, it is possible to exactly determine the energy only up to the maximum value of the force. In the shear test a special device with universal testing machine was used. For accurate force measurement, the strain gauge force sensor of the universal testing machine was calibrated using an externally calibrated strain gauge pressure sensor.
The effect of moisture on laser beam wood machining
Authors: Knedlová J , Kubišová M , Javořík J , Vrbová H , Dušek V
Published: December 2024

Wood moisture can affect various parameters of the engraving process, such as the depth of engraving, the structure and surface of the wood, and thus the overall quality of the created image. The investigation of the influence of moisture contained in different types of wood on their machining was carried out on samples of oak, beech, pine, spruce, alder, ash and cherry produced using the laser device ILS 3NM, CO2, with a wavelength of 10.6 μm and a maximum power 100 W, with a maximum feed speed of 1524 mm·s“1. The depth of ablation and the surface of the machined surface were studied for selected samples with the moisture of the wood plants in the laboratory room, the outdoor and with the moisture created by immersion in the water bath.
Electrochemical parameters of austenitic stainless steel after different sensitization heat treatment times
Authors: Zatkalíková V , Markovičová L , Slezák M , Šikyňa L
Published: December 2024

This study deals with the corrosion behavior of AISI 304 stainless steel after 10, 6, 2, 1-hour sensitization heat treatment time at the temperature of 650 °C. Sensitization of the specimens is verified by ASTM A262 practice A test. Corrosion resistance is evaluated by electrochemical parameters of the potentiodynamic polarization performed in 1M NaCl solution at the temperature 20 ± 3 °C on the specimens with high-temperature surface oxides and after their removal by pickling. The electrochemical etching test in oxalic acid confirmed the ditch microstructure and the complete sensitization after 10 and 6-hours sensitization time. After 1 hour, the material showed only slight local signs of sensitization. The electrochemical parameters of the potentiodynamic polarization were significantly affected by the state of the surface of the sensitization heat treated specimens. Regardless of the sensitization time, the specimens with high-temperature surface oxides behaved like an actively corroding metal. After pickling, they retained the passivity region, but with a higher passive current density and slightly lower pitting potential than the as received material.
Influence of oxidative and consequential reductive annealing on the photoluminescence intensity, decay time and morphology of ZnO single-crystal faces
Authors: John D , Remeš Z , Novák R , Remeš Š , Volf J , Babčenko O , Ukraintsev E , Rezek B , Buryi M
Published: December 2024

Zinc oxide exhibits high electron mobility, wide 3.3eV band gap, ability to sustain large electric fields, relatively low electronic noise, and strong luminescence. These properties make ZnO invaluable for a broad range of applications. To optimize them, it is important to study the influence of annealing on ZnO properties under various conditions. In this work we compare the infrared Raman (IR Raman, 1064 nm laser excitation, 70-3500 cm1 spectral range, 1cm1 spectral resolution) and photoluminescence (PL, 360 nm UV LED excitation, 375-700 nm spectral range, 1 ns time resolution) optical spectra of as the received and annealed ZnO single crystals. The annealing has been done in oxidizing (air) and reducing (hydrogen) atmosphere at 350, 500 and 700°C. The Raman spectra consist of two characteristic peaks at 99 and 438 cm-1 associated with the sublattice oscillations of Zn and O, respectively, and a broad PL band in the visible spectrum with mean time decay about 10 microseconds. The optical measurements are correlated with the topographical information obtained by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The result shows the ZnO single crystals can be enhanced in terms of PL intensity, decay time and optical scattering by annealing in the oxidizing and consequential reducing atmosphere. The trends are more profoundly on the O-face. Both treatments lead to greater surface roughness, particularly in the case of hydrogen atmospheres, but without any observable change in the IR Raman spectra.
Modelling and numerical simulation of temperature fields during WAAM production of an aluminum part
Authors: Behúlová M , Babalová E , Sahul Miroslav , Sahul Martin , Pavlík M , Němec T
Published: December 2024

Wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) is a notably promising direct energy deposition (DED) technology for the production of large scale metallic components of various shapes without the need for complex tooling, moulds, or dies. The main advantages of this technology include high material efficiency, lead time reductions, a high deposition rate, and low production costs. WAAM offers numerous benefits for a wide range of metallic materials, like aluminum, copper, and magnesium, and their alloys. The paper investigates the thermal cycles and temperature fields that develop during the additive manufacturing of an AA5087 aluminum alloy part using Cold Metal Transfer (CMT) with varying deposition parameters. Thermal cycles were experimentally measured using an Ahlborn Almemo 56902 measuring station equipped with K-type thermocouples. A simulation model of the deposition process was developed to study the effect of travel speed on temperature distribution and the peak temperatures during deposition of individual layers. Comparison of results obtained from numerical simulations using ANSYS software exhibited very good agreement with measured temperatures, with relative errors below 10 %.
Improving the efficiency of crystal growth process control by HDC method
Authors: Kajan J , Damazyan G , Tinkova V , Gregor T , Medvecký Š , Chaika M
Published: December 2024

In order to determine the stability of crystallization conditions, four experimental processes of sapphire crystal growth by the horizontal directional crystallization (HDC) method were carried out. The heater power was regulated based on real-time crystal-melt boundary position data obtained using video monitoring, which provided a stable crystal growth rate. The obtained curves of the dependence of the heater power on the length of the growing crystal indicate the similarity of physical phenomena regardless of the degree of melting of the seed crystal, the length of the container, and the effectiveness of thermal shielding. The analysis of the heat flow balance revealed that heat transfer from the heater is dependent on the melt surface area.
Comparison of optical measurement methods utilization for complex high feed tool geometry
Authors: Vozár M , Hrbál J , Straka R , Milde J
Published: December 2024

High Feed Machining (HFM) is an advanced machining technique that offers the potential for up to three times faster machining speeds compared to conventional methods. The geometric characteristics of HFM cutting tools differ significantly from those used in traditional machining, posing challenges when it comes to their precise measurement. Cemented carbide solid high feed mills feature specialized end profiles that enable the utilization of chip thinning mechanisms to achieve substantially increased feed rates. Grinding is a widely adopted manufacturing process for production of carbide tools. The tool’s geometry is attained through the coordinated movement of the grinding wheel and the workpiece while employing a cooling medium. The precision of the resulting cutting tool geometry directly impacts the machining process. In the context of the experiment, five HFM tools were manufactured. The primary focus was to assess the geometry of these tools using two distinct measurement methods: a dedicated optical measuring machine designed for cutting tools and a 3D optical scanner. The results from each measurement method were subsequently compared and evaluated using the GOM Inspect software. Based on the analysis of measured data, it’s possible to confidently determine that optical scanning represents a reliable and effective method for quality control of the macrogeometry of cutting tools.
Eco-friendly Weather Monitoring Device using Arduino Mega and Sensor Integration
Authors: Akinwumi S. A. , Okey-Amadi O. , Ayara W. A. , Akinwumi O. A.
Published: December 2024

The project involved the construction of a hardware setup, utilizing the Arduino Mega as the central control unit. The BME280 sensor was employed to monitor temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure, providing comprehensive weather data. The SGP30 sensor was utilized for analyzing air quality, detecting various pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. The MQ135 gas sensor enabled the detection of harmful gases, including ammonia, nitrogen dioxide and benzene. The integration of a 16x4 LCD display allowed for real-time visualization of the collected weather data, providing users with immediate insights. Tactile switches, along with 10k ohm resistors, were used for user interaction, enabling menu navigation and system control. The DS1302 RTC module facilitated accurate timestamping of data readings, while the SD card module enabled data logging for long-term analysis and storage. The successful construction of the Weather Monitoring System demonstrated its capabilities in terms of accuracy, reliability, and real-time monitoring. The integration of Arduino Mega, along with the BME280, SGP30, MQ135, LCD display, push buttons, 10kohm resistors, DS1302 RTC module, and SD card module, provided a comprehensive solution for weather data collection, analysis, and visualization. This project contributes to the advancement of weather monitoring systems, emphasizing the importance of Arduino-based solutions and sensor integration. It highlights the potential for utilizing such technology to address weather challenges effectively, enabling data-driven decision-making and fostering weather awareness. Overall, the Weather Monitoring System presented in this project report offers a valuable tool for monitoring and analyzing atmospheric conditions, paving the way for future enhancements and applications in various weather monitoring domains.
Corrigendum: 1D and 2D porous media fixed bed reactor simulations with DUO: Steam Methane Reforming (SMR) validation test (2024 IOP Conf. Ser.: Mater Sci Eng. Vol 1312 012004)
Authors: Daymo E. , Tonkovich A. , Hettel M. , Shirsath A.
Published: December 2024

Please see Article PDF for corrigendum text.
Embodiment, Socially Intelligent Behaviour and Proactive Robots
Authors: Sirithunge Chapa , Lalitharatne Thilina Dulantha , Iida Fumiya
Published: December 2024

There is growing consensus among robotics experts that integrating concepts from social intelligence and embodiment can significantly enhance robot design. Humans have evolved to perform and survive in a world characterised by rapid change, high uncertainty, indefinite intricacy, and limited availability of information. By contrast, robots operate in highly controlled environments with limited uncertainty. Although many challenges remain, concepts from social intelligence and embodiment will eventually enable researchers to engineer proactive robots for the real world that possess at least some of the desirable properties of humans, such as adaptivity, predictability, dexterity, and creativity in versatile domains where behaviour must not only be intelligent but also socially acceptable. This article aims to explore the multifaceted role of embodiment in enhancing the proactive capabilities of robots in this context.
An Information-Theoretic Perspective on Acting Agents
Authors: Langer Carlotta , Ay Nihat
Published: December 2024

Every embodied intelligent agent constantly interacts in its own way with its environment. It perceives information about the world, processes this information in its controller, e.g. its brain, and sends signals to the body, which then interacts with its surroundings. Here we give a thorough introduction to an information-theoretic approach that aims at quantifying these information flows among an agent’s body, brain and environment. Thereby we measure how much an information flow impacts the behavior of an agent. For instance, we might ask the question whether the brain is essential for a certain behavior or whether it is a reflexive stimuli response. In order to measure these interactions we model the system using the sensorimotor loop and assess the different information flows by information-theoretic measures. This includes measures related to Morphological Computation and the complexity of the controller. Morphological Computation describes the reduction of computational cost for the controller that results from the interaction with the environment. We include results from an implementation of this framework with simplistic simulated robots. Experiments with these robots show, for instance, that an agent with a well-adapted body does not rely as much on its controller. Furthermore, learning a new task requires an increased information integration in the controller.
MoS2 micro/nano structure: preparation and tribological properties as additives in biodegradable polymer and ester oil
Authors: Wang Kun , Xu Yong , Zhong Hua , Hu Enzhu , Hu Kunhong
Published: December 2024

The needs of modern industry for high-performance lubricants remain difficult to meet. Therefore, finding ways to improve their lubrication performance is crucial. A novel composite consisting of two different structures of the same compound was synthesized for improving tribological properties. Flake-like micron MoS2 (M-MoS2) with a size of approximately 10 μm was activated via oxidation, ultrasonication, and grinding. The desired MoS2 micro/nano structure (MN-MoS2) was prepared through the chemical deposition of hollow spherical nano-MoS2 with a diameter of approximately 75 nm on the activated M-MoS2. MN-MoS2 combined the advantages of the micron and nano structures and possessed excellent tribological properties in both a solid lubricating system of polylactic acid (PLA) and a liquid lubricating system of diisooctyl sebacate (DIOS). In PLA, the addition of 0.1% MN-MoS2 reduced the wear rate by 59.7%, but slightly increased the coefficient of friction (COF) by 3.1%. When the addition amount was increased to 0.5% in PLA, MN-MoS2 can decrease the COF by 11.75%. In DIOS, the addition of 0.5% MN-MoS2 reduced the wear rate by 58.9% and the COF by 37.2%. The lubrication mechanisms of the MN-MoS2-modified PLA were the formation of a MoS2/PLA transfer layer on the counterpart surface and the improvement in the thermal stability and hardness of PLA. However, the lubrication mechanism of the MN-MoS2-modified DIOS was mainly the formation of a stable friction film containing MoS2 on the friction surface. These findings provide a way to improve the performance of lubricant additives and demonstrate potential application value.
Geomechanical study of the Bi-stabilization of clay with sugarcane molasses and coconut fiber for sustainable construction
Authors: Ouédraogo Boukaré , Tougri Inoussa , Guengané Hassime , Palm Kalifa , Bathiebo Dieudonné Joseph
Published: December 2024

This study examines the effectiveness of the bi-stabilization of clay soils using cane molasses and coconut fiber, focusing on improving the geotechnical and mechanical properties of clay. The performance of the two stabilizers, both individually and in combination for bistabilization, was assessed. The geotechnical properties were determined through sieve analysis, Proctor tests, and Atterberg limit methods, while the mechanical properties were measured using a hydraulic press. The results showed that cane molasses reduced plasticity, enhanced soil cohesion, and increased dry density with molasses content. The Atterberg limits (liquid limit, plastic limit, and consistency index) were maximized at a 4% molasses content, with respective increases of 9.28%, 44.80%, and 37.9% compared to clay without molasses (CB). Coconut fiber improved the flexural strength by 361.9% for CF1, whereas molasses improved the compressive strength by 12.24% compared to plain clay. Bi-stabilization allowed for a maximum improvement in flexural strength of 509.52% compared to CB, 49.42% compared to molasses-stabilized clay bricks (CSM), and 31.96% compared to clay composites with coconut fiber (CF). The compressive strength improved by 22.54% compared with CB, 9.21% compared with CSM8, and 14.94% compared with CF½. In summary, bi-stabilization with sugarcane molasses and coconut fiber provided enhanced performance compared with their individual use.
Prevalence of suspected anemia in Japanese young children determined using noninvasive hemoglobin measurements: an observational study
Authors: Nakamura Yoshitaka , Igawa Megumu , Jinno Shinji , Mitsuhashi Fusako , Tsutsumi Chiharu
Published: December 2024

Recently, noninvasive spot hemoglobin measurement (SpHb) using Pulse CO-Oximeter Rad-67™ Spot-check (Rad-67) has been validated, although anemia diagnosis typically relies on blood hemoglobin concentration measurement. In this large-scale survey of Japanese children aged 1-5 years, we evaluated SpHb distribution to understand the prevalence of suspected anemia, and further examined the relationship between SpHb and background factors. Children were recruited from large retail stores in Japan between November 2022 and August 2023. SpHb was measured by nutritionists or registered dietitians using Rad-67. Four thousand one hundred thirty-three participants were included and stratified by age and sex. The prevalence of children below the World Health Organization threshold value for anemia was found to be 5.2% in total (ranging between 2.6% and 7.8% in subgroups). Mean SpHb values increased with age, and were higher in boys. Age and sex were independently related to SpHb. Overall, this study shows that approximately 3%-8% of young children in Japan are suspected to be anemic.
Clinical features of taste disorders in Cronkhite-Canada syndrome: a report of 10 cases
Authors: Nin Tomomi , Kamikozuru Koji , Takagawa Tetsuya , Shinzaki Shinichiro , Tsuzuki Kenzo
Published: December 2024

Cronkhite-Canada syndrome (CCS) is a very rare gastrointestinal disorder with ectodermal abnormalities. Taste abnormalities appear in more than 80% of cases. Our objective was to investigate the characteristics of CCS. Ten patients with taste abnormalities who were diagnosed with CCS were included. A medical interview, examination of the tongue findings, and blood tests were performed, and taste functions were assessed using an electrogustometry (EGM) and a filter paper disc (FPD) before and after treatment. There was nail atrophy in all cases, weight loss in 8 cases, hair loss in 6 cases, skin hyperpigmentation in 5 cases, gastrointestinal symptoms in 4 cases, and atrophy of the lingual papillae in at least 8 cases. Zinc therapy for taste disorders by the previous physicians was ineffective in all cases. The results of the FPD at the first examination showed a severe decrease in taste function of the anterior tongue, whereas taste function tended to be preserved in the posterior tongue (P < 0.01, Wilcoxon). In all cases, subjective symptoms improved within 3 mo after treatment of CCS. Taste function improved significantly after treatment (FPD in anterior tongue, P < 0.05, EGM in posterior tongue, P < 0.01, Wilcoxon). Taste disorder in CCS tended to be severe in the anterior tongue with findings of tongue papillary atrophy, which appears to be an ectodermal abnormality. Their taste function improved along with symptoms after treatment. The taste tests were useful for determining the effect of treatment for CCS.
Ten tips on how to reduce iatrogenic acute kidney injury
Authors: Booke Hendrik , von Groote Thilo , Zarbock Alexander
Published: December 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a heterogeneous syndrome associated with worse clinical outcomes. Many treatments and procedures in the hospitalized patient can cause AKI. Hence, the incidence of iatrogenic AKI is expected to be high. In this review we provide 10 practical tips on how to manage and avoid iatrogenic AKI. We cover identification of vulnerable patients by epidemiological data and recommend the usage of renal stress biomarkers for enhanced screening of high-risk patients. Further, we discuss the limitations of current diagnostic criteria of AKI. As a key takeaway, we suggest the implementation of novel damage biomarkers in clinical routine to identify subclinical AKI, which may guide novel clinical management pathways. To further reduce the incidence of procedure-associated AKI, we advocate certain preventive measures. Foremost, this includes improvement of hemodynamics and avoidance of nephrotoxic drugs whenever possible. In cases of severe AKI, we provide tips for the implementation and management of renal replacement therapy and highlight the advantages of regional citrate anticoagulation. The furosemide stress test might be of help in recognizing patients who will require renal replacement therapy. Finally, we discuss the progression of AKI to acute and chronic kidney disease and the management of this growing issue. Both can develop after episodes of AKI and have major implications for patient co-morbidity and long-term renal and non-renal outcomes. Hence, we recommend long-term monitoring of kidney parameters after AKI.
Influence of autonomic neuropathy, systemic inflammation and other clinical parameters on mortality in dialysis patients
Authors: Schramm Michael Christoph , Schramm Catharina Verena , Hoppe John Michael , Trautner Markus , Hinz Michael , Mitzner Steffen
Published: December 2024

Background

Autonomic neuropathy (AN) is prevalent in diabetes and chronic kidney disease. The Composite Autonomic Symptom Score 31 (COMPASS 31) is a self-assessment test developed to determine not only cardiac AN but also AN of other organs, including the vasomotor, pupillomotor, secretomotor, and gastrointestinal systems. As yet there are no data on the effects of combined AN-scores of a variety of affected organ systems on mortality in dialysis patients.

Methods

In 119 patients undergoing hemodialysis therapy, symptoms of AN were documented using COMPASS 31. After 5 years, survival rates were calculated depending on AN scores and other parameters. After this 5-year period, AN scores were assessed for a second time and correlated with those obtained 5 years earlier.

Results

Survival rates for patients with lower AN scores were better than for those with higher AN scores. Patients with lower C-reactive protein levels showed better survival compared to those with higher values. Dialysis patients with diabetes had a lower survival rate compared to non-diabetic patients. In women, survival rates were better than in men. AN scores remained unchanged over the 5-year period.

Conclusion

AN is frequently observed in dialysis patients and can be identified through the COMPASS 31 questionnaire. Patients with higher AN scores exhibit poorer survival rates compared to those with lower scores. This observation is applicable not only for cardiac AN but also to AN scores reflecting changes in other organ systems. Therefore, AN scores can be used effectively to detect various AN symptoms in dialysis patients and identify their increased risk of mortality.
Defining normal serum creatinine in pregnancy—results from the AKID UK prospective cohort study
Authors: Skinner Laura , Birnie Kate , Mettam Katie A , Standing Judith P , Howell Amy E , Lenguerrand Erik , Fraser Abigail , Armitage Alison J , Burden Christy , Taylor Dominic M
Published: December 2024

Background

Abnormal kidney function in pregnancy may represent chronic kidney disease or pregnancy-associated acute kidney injury, both associated with adverse outcomes during and after pregnancy. Serum creatinine remains the standard biomarker for kidney function in pregnancy, but normal levels change dynamically through pregnancy and at term. Existing gestation-specific reference ranges for serum creatinine and recommendations to investigate for abnormal kidney function in pregnancy are based on limited data. Data describing trajectories of serum creatinine through pregnancy and the normal, physiological increase in serum creatinine at term are also lacking.

Methods

We recruited 476 healthy pregnant individuals aged 16 years or over, 2019–21, measuring serum creatinine in the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy, at birth and postpartum. Clinical data were abstracted. Gestation-specific reference ranges for serum creatinine were defined as mean ± 1.96 × SD, after excluding those with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Trajectories of serum creatinine through pregnancy, and the change in serum creatinine at delivery were described.

Results

1875 creatinine measurements were recorded. Reference ranges for serum creatinine in the first, second and third trimesters of healthy pregnancy were 37–67 μmol/l (0.42–0.75 mg/dl), 34–63 μmol/l (0.38–0.71 mg/dl), and 34–66 μmol/l (0.39–0.75 mg/dl). Increasing serum creatinine in early pregnancy was more common in those with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, prior to disease onset. In healthy participants, median serum creatinine increase from 36 weeks to birth was 6.8% (95% CI 4.5%, 9.1%).

Conclusions

Investigation for abnormal kidney function in pregnancy should be considered at a lower creatinine threshold than currently recommended. Detecting abnormal creatinine trajectories may help early identification of high-risk pregnancies.
Allele ages provide limited information about the strength of negative selection
Authors: Shastry Vivaswat , Berg Jeremy J
Published: December 2024

For many problems in population genetics, it is useful to characterize the distribution of fitness effects (DFE) of de novo mutations among a certain class of sites. A DFE is typically estimated by fitting an observed site frequency spectrum (SFS) to an expected SFS given a hypothesized distribution of selection coefficients and demographic history. The development of tools to infer gene trees from haplotype alignments, along with ancient DNA resources, provides us with additional information about the frequency trajectories of segregating mutations. Here, we ask how useful this additional information is for learning about the DFE, using the joint distribution on allele frequency and age to summarize information about the trajectory. To this end, we introduce an accurate and efficient numerical method for computing the density on the age of a segregating variant found at a given sample frequency, given the strength of selection and an arbitrarily complex population size history. We then use this framework to show that the unconditional age distribution of negatively selected alleles is very closely approximated by reweighting the neutral age distribution in terms of the negatively selected SFS, suggesting that allele ages provide little information about the DFE beyond that already contained in the present day frequency. To confirm this prediction, we extended the standard Poisson random field method to incorporate the joint distribution of frequency and age in estimating selection coefficients, and test its performance using simulations. We find that when the full SFS is observed and the true allele ages are known, including ages in the estimation provides only small increases in the accuracy of estimated selection coefficients. However, if only sites with frequencies above a certain threshold are observed, then the true ages can provide substantial information about the selection coefficients, especially when the selection coefficient is large. When ages are estimated from haplotype data using state-of-the-art tools, uncertainty about the age abrogates most of the additional information in the fully observed SFS case, while the neutral prior assumed in these tools when estimating ages induces a downward bias in the case of the thresholded SFS.
The availability of essential medicines in public healthcare facilities in Afghanistan: navigating sociopolitical and geographical challenges
Authors: van Gurp Margo , Alba Sandra , Ammiwala Maida , Arab Sayed Rahim , Sadaat Sayed Murtaza , Hanifi Fazelrabie , Safi Sohrab , Ansari Nasratullah , Campos-Ponce Maiza , Kok Maarten Olivier
Published: December 2024

During the past two decades, the Afghan government, along with the international community, has developed a system aimed at improving access to essential healthcare services under Afghanistan’s challenging sociopolitical and geographical circumstances. In 31 provinces, nonstate actors competed for fixed-term contracts to implement a predefined package of healthcare services. In three provinces, the government organized the provision of healthcare services. An independent third party monitored service provision, including access to medicines. This study examines the availability of essential medicines in Afghanistan’s public healthcare facilities and how this is shaped by sociopolitical challenges, geographical barriers, and the organization of the healthcare system. Between March and July 2021, enumerators collected data at 885 healthcare facilities across Afghanistan. For our analysis, we combined data on medicine availability and the functioning of the health system with publicly available information about geographical and sociopolitical factors, including security incidents. Using regression analysis, we identified facility-, district-, and provincial-level factors related to medicine availability in public healthcare facilities. On average, 70% of 31 selected essential medicines were available in 2021. The availability of medicines varied significantly between provinces and was considerably higher in those where services were contracted out to nonstate actors (n = 31; 91%) compared to provinces where service provision was organized by the government (n = 3; 9%). The most important drivers of variation in medicine availability included geographical barriers, securing and allocating funds at the provincial level, and organizing and sustaining physical capacity at the facility level. Insecurity was not a key factor driving variation in medicine availability. Despite the sociopolitical challenges in 2021, the availability of essential medicines in public healthcare facilities was relatively high. The results suggest that decentralized procurement of medicines by nonstate actors and timely payment of funds contribute to medicine availability. Strategies to improve medicine availability should target hard-to-reach areas and lower-level facilities.
The influence of access to care on the health literacy of families in Mexico
Authors: Hoffman Steven , Ward Kaitlin , Black Alyssa , Kirby Dayna , Wood David S , Marsiglia Flavio F
Published: December 2024

Health literacy (HL) is essential to understanding health information and achieving health goals. Unfortunately, limited information is available on how parent HL impact child health outcomes. This is critical to understand in areas of the world where access to healthcare services is limited or unavailable. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the moderating influence of access to care on the relationship between parent HL and child health outcomes in Mexico. Using a geographically stratified convenience sample survey design, we gathered a sample of 373 parent–child dyads throughout Mexico in August of 2021. Using the HLS-Q12, the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, healthcare access questions developed by Levy and Janke, a single-item self-report overall health measure, and questions about substance use frequency, we found that parent HL was positively associated with youth mental wellbeing and overall health. Limited healthcare access was associated with increased youth cigarette, marijuana and alcohol use. Our results indicate that efforts to increase parent HL may be effective in improving youth health behaviors and outcomes.
Domestication history and genetic changes for the newly evolved flower color in the ornamental plant Lobularia maritima (Brassiaceae)
Authors: Yang Wenjie , Liu Meng , Feng Landi , Jiao Pengfei , Jiang Jiebei , Huang Li , Liu Jianquan , Lopez-Pujol Jordi , Hu Quanjun
Published: December 2024

Lobularia maritima (sweet alyssum) is a popular ornamental plant that displays a range of flower colors, particularly white and purple. However, the genetic underpinning and evolutionary history of flower colors have remained unknown. To address this, we performed a de novo assembly of a chromosome-level genome for this species and conducted comparative population genomic analyses of both domestic and wild representatives. These analyses revealed distinct genetic clusters corresponding to wild and domestic groups, with further subdivisions based on geographic and phenotypic differences. Importantly, all cultivars originated from a single domestication event within the Tunisia group. One wild group did not contribute genetically to the current cultivars. The new mutations in key gene of the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway, PAP1, that arose following domestication led to the origin of purple flower coloration in the cultivars. Moreover, the contrasting PAP1 haplotypes in white and purple varieties lead to differential expression of CHS and DFR, which in turn contributes to the observed flower color differences. These findings provide key insights into the domestication history and genetic regulation of flower color in L. maritima, laying the groundwork for future genetic breeding efforts focused on this plant, especially introducing genetic sources from other wild groups.
Low Surgery Rates in Early Crohn’s Disease: Results from a Prospective Population-Based Inception Cohort—The Inflammatory Bowel Disease in South-Eastern Norway III Study
Authors: Lund Charlotte , Strande Vibeke , Hagen Milada , Bengtson May-Bente , Boyar Raziye , Detlie Trond Espen , Frigstad Svein Oskar , Medhus Asle W , Henriksen Magne , Holten Kristina I Aass , Hovde Øistein , Huppertz-Hauss Gert , Johansen Ingunn , Olsen Bjørn Christian , Opheim Randi , Pallenschat Jens , Perminow Gøri , Ricanek Petr , Torp Roald , Ystrøm Carl Magnus , Høie Ole , Asak Øivind , Vatn Simen , Aabrekk Tone Bergene , Kristensen Vendel A , Høivik Marte Lie
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

The emergence of biologic therapy has coincided with a decline in surgery rates for Crohn’s disease (CD). This study aims to describe the disease course, including intra-abdominal surgery rates, biologic therapy use, and variables associated with biologic therapy initiation in a cohort of newly diagnosed CD patients.

Methods

The Inflammatory Bowel Disease in South-Eastern Norway (IBSEN) III study is a population-based inception cohort study. From 2017 to 2019, newly diagnosed inflammatory bowel disease patients were included for prospective follow-up. The present study included CD patients ≥ 18 years. Clinical, endoscopic, and demographic data were collected at diagnosis and 1-year follow-up. Data were analyzed by using the Kaplan–Meier method and regression analyses.

Results

In total, 424 CD patients (median age 37.0 years (range 18-80), female 55.0%) were included. At diagnosis, 50.5% presented with ileal disease and 80.7% with inflammatory behavior. Within a 1-year follow-up, 39.6% of patients received their first biologic therapy and 5.2% required intra-abdominal surgery. Systemic steroid treatment, CRP ≥ 5.0 mg dL−1, Harvey–Bradshaw Index score > 4, ileocolonic disease and penetrating disease behavior at diagnosis were independently associated with increased risk of initiation of biologic therapy, while age > 40 years was associated with decreased risk.

Conclusion

A high proportion of patients had ileal disease and inflammatory behavior at diagnosis. Still, nearly 40% started biologic therapy within the 1-year follow-up, while only 5% required intra-abdominal surgery.
A practical identification guide to the zoeae of the invasive European green crab, Carcinus maenas (Linnaeus, 1758) (Decapoda: Brachyura: Carcinidae), and to the zoeae of the families of brachyuran crabs in Washington state, USA
Authors: Burnett Nicole
Published: December 2024

Although the brachyuran crab Carcinus maenas (Linnaeus, 1758) is a globally invasive species, early-life history information for its larvae, such as hatch timing, stage duration, dispersal, and behavior, is limited, particularly in newly invaded locations. This is, in part, due to the need for region-specific guides on larval taxonomy that incorporate C. maenas. We addressed this issue for Washington state marine waters by developing a dichotomous key for the zoeae of C. maenas and a matrix that compares the morphological characters of C. maenas zoeae to those of brachyuran crab families reported from the state. To assess whether morphological characters of C. maenas from this region reflect taxonomic descriptions from the species’ native range, we reared zoeae from females collected in Washington state. We found that zoeae from each crab family reported from Washington state have at least two characters that distinguish them from C. maenas zoeae: the presence of lateral carapace spines in most of these families, and for three families lacking lateral carapace spines (Epialtidae, Grapsidae, Pinnotheridae) antennae that are nearly equal to the length of the rostral spine, the presence of posterolateral extensions on any of the somites, or a laterally expanded last somite, respectively. Rearing of larvae showed that the rostral spines of the Washington zoeae I of C. maenas were ~ 0.06 mm longer than reported in the literature. We also found that late-stage zoeae may retain more furcal spines than previously reported. The region-specific taxonomic tools we developed allow easier and quicker identification of C. maenas zoeae in Washington. These descriptions should facilitate early detection in newly invaded bays, a more rapid understanding of C. maenas larval timing and behavior, and better evaluation of larval dispersal that can be used in risk-assessment tools.