bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of shape mapping accuracy of a flaccid membrane of a heart assist pump
Authors: Sulej Wojciech , Murawski Krzysztof
Published: February 2018

The paper presents the research results which are a continuation of work on the use of image processing techniques to determine the membrane shape of the artificial ventricle.
The studies were focused on developing a technique for measuring the accuracy of the membrane shape mapping. It is important in view of ensuring the required accuracy of determining the instantaneous stroke volume of controlled pneumatic artificial ventricular. Experiments were carried out on the models of convex, concave, and flat membranes. The purpose of the research was to obtain a numerical indicator, which will be used to evaluate the options to improve mapping techniques of the membrane shape.
Keywords: accuracy measurement, membrane shape mapping, optical sensor
Security analysis of Microsoft RMS
Authors: Dmitruk Joanna , Kaczyński Kamil
Published: February 2018

Microsoft Rights Management Services (RMS) is a system designed to ensure the protection and proper use of electronic documents. RMS allows to apply different access policies for documents, thus allowing to control their use in time. The system allows not only defining access policies at document creation, but also after its distribution. Microsoft RMS uses a number of advanced cryptographic mechanisms and primitives to ensure overall service security. In this paper, we have analyzed the security of RMS, indicating a number of possible gaps. The methods of solving those problems, especially those related to data integrity, have been proposed.
Keywords: DRM, cryptography, cryptanalysis, RMS, Microsoft
Analysis of theoretical security level of PDF Encryption mechanism based on X.509 certificates
Authors: Dmitruk Joanna , Glet Michał
Published: February 2018

PDF Encryption is a content security mechanism developed and used by Adobe in their products. In this paper, we have checked a theoretical security level of a variant that uses public key infrastructure and X.509 certificates. We have described a basis of this mechanism and we have performed a simple security analysis. Then, we have showed possible tweaks and security improvements. At the end, we have given some recommendations that can improve security of a content secured with PDF Encryption based on X.509 certificates.
Keywords: DRM, cryptography, security level, PDF Encryption, Adobe, X.509
Air defense planning for an area with the use of very short range air defense sets
Authors: Pietkiewicz Tadeusz , Kawalec Adam , Wajszczyk Bronisław , Szugajew Marcin
Published: February 2018

This paper presents a heuristic method of planning the deployment of very short-range anti-air missile and artillery sets (VSHORAD) around an area ('protected area') in order to protect it.
A function dependent on the distance between the earliest feasible points of destroying targets and the centre of the protected area was taken as an objective function. This is a different indicator from those commonly used in the literature, and based on the likelihood of a defense zone penetration by means of an air attack (MAA): the kill probability of the MAA and the probability of area losses. The model constraints resulted directly from the restrictions imposed by real air defense systems and the nature of the area being defended. This paper assumes that the VSHORAD system operates as a part of a general, superordinate air defense command and control system based on the idea of network-centric warfare, which provides the VSHORAD system with air intelligence, air defense plans, and combat mission specifications. The presented method has been implemented. The final part of the paper presents the computational results.
Keywords: optimal planning, air defense system, area installation protection, deployment of very short range anti-air missile and artillery sets (VSHORAD)
Assessment of the influence of fly ash additive on the tightness of concrete with furnace cement CEM IIIA 32,5N
Authors: Szcześniak Anna , Zychowicz Jacek , Stolarski Adam
Published: February 2018

The analysis of influence of fly ash additive to concrete on the basis of cement CEM IIIA 32,5 N on the tightness and strength was presented in the paper. Researches were carried out for three types of concrete made with the use of CEM IIIA 32,5N LH HSR NA cement. The basic recipe of concrete does not contain the additive of fly ash, while two other concretes contain the fly ash additive in an amount of 25% and 33% of the cement mass. Laboratory investigations of the concrete samples were carried out under conditions of long-term maturation in the range of the water tightness and the depth of water penetration in concrete, compressive strength and tensile strength of concrete at splitting.
Keywords: concrete testing, furnace cement, fly ash additive, water tightness of concrete, strength of concrete.
Application of the wavelet and neural technologies for processing of signals obtained during railway tracks diagnostics by the magnetic flux leakage method
Authors: Nichoga Vitalij , Vashchyshyn Liubomyr
Published: February 2018

In this article, the approach for detecting a transverse crack in the rail head via ANN with CWT and application created on its basis are presented. The ways of further development of the ANN for improving its work accuracy and the possibility of identification of other types of defects are also presented.
Keywords: defect, transverse crack, CWT, ANN
Graphic keypad in intrusion alarm systems
Authors: Łukasiak Jarosław , Rosiński Adam
Published: February 2018

Intrusion alarm systems (IAS for short; also known as burglary and robbery alarm systems) can be classified as belonging to the group of electronic security systems. Intrusion alarm systems are installed and operated in a variety of public and private buildings having very different uses. Therefore, intrusion alarm systems require different types of interfaces to allow effective operation by humans. This paper provides a set of functional requirements for intrusion alarm systems, followed by an overview of selected IAS user interfaces.
Keywords: electronic security system, interfaces, security.
Rozwój polskiej teorii wychowania estetycznego – prekursorzy i twórcy
Authors: Pankowska Krystyna
Published: February 2018

The article presents the achievements and thought of chosen pedagogues taking part in the
creation of the Polish model of education through art. Janina Mortkowiczowa, the author
of the book On aesthetic education (1903), emphasised the issue of the social significance of
aesthetic culture and noted its linkage with moral culture. Stefan Szuman set out his main
theses in the book On art and aesthetic education (1962), where he pointed out various dimensions
of creative activity, including children’s art and its important role in the process
of development of the young human being. Bogdan Suchodolski looked at art from the
perspective of culture and general education. Irena Wojnar provided the final shape to the
theory of aesthetic education (Theory of aesthetic education, 1976), by distinguishing two aspects
within it: education towards art and education through art.
Wychowanie w blasku sztuki
Authors: Depta Henryk
Published: February 2018

The article is an attempt to define the role that art plays – may/should play – in the education
of modern man. The scope of this “great role of art in the life of modern man” was presented
in the works of Irena Wojnar and Bogdan Suchodolski – the authors of the Polish theory of
aesthetic education. For the author of the article, the important role of art lies in the fact
that it breaks the inertia of our sensitivity, our perceptual patterns, the coldness of the heart.
In our times it is art – or maybe only art! – that allows modern man, at least partially, to satisfy
the hunger for meaning. Art is an attempt to overcome the insufficiency of our human existence.
To overcome and enrich! By showing man not just what he is but what he would like to be, what
he should be, art creates a truly human vision of the art of life. That art is great entertainment
is another happy circumstance for aesthetic education. We love and choose art because it is
simply amusing. Studies show that art is educationally attractive – especially for children and
adolescents – because it is also an attractive entertainment. The power and the beauty of
aesthetic education lie in the fact that it is an education which is also a noble entertainment.
Trwanie, zmienność i przemilczanie. Rozważania nad teorią wychowania estetycznego zainspirowane filozofią Bergsona
Authors: Zalewska-Pawlak Mirosława
Published: February 2018

The article contains reflections on up-to-date theoretical knowledge and the need for the
development of aesthetic education. The argument was derived from the philosophy of Henri
Bergson, accepting the description of the concept of duration, variability and their interdependence
as categories. The concept of creativity is approached with its distinction into
artistic and lifelong creativity, showing the evolution of their differentiation and unification.
The author indicates important and currently unresolved problems of aesthetic education.
Rabindranath Tagore – poszukiwanie prawdy i piękna w teorii i w Szkole Poety
Authors: Krawczyk Zofia
Published: February 2018

The article is based on the author’s personal and long-year experience gathered while observing
and living the life in India. The text addresses the problems and struggles of elites of
a society on the crossroads of various civilisations. In addition, it touches upon often contradictory
visions of the world and social order, which does not prevent any of them from finding
space to perfect specific aspects of spiritual life.
In India, we can see very clearly how two planes and two levels of Indian culture – the
philosophy of life and the art of life – cross and, at the same time, blend with each other. The
most general aspect of these considerations results from the common essence that permeates
Indian culture and skills of co-existence. Its contributions to global culture are: a unique view,
cognition and evaluation of the world. It also added a more profound interest in mankind than
in other cultures, supported by the intellectual effort to explore what conditions its being, and
what can decondition that being. As a result of that interest, deepened throughout dozens of
centuries, the Indian philosophy proposes a notion of the human being that is wider than in
the European tradition. Moreover, it also advances methods and techniques of upbringing
of the young generation so that it would manifest a conscious attitude to the tradition and
art of life in the broadest meaning of the word, and be able to build a balance between the self
– the microworld – and the macroworld in a peaceful and disciplined manner.
Fatigue in Air Traffic Operations—Opportunities to Enhance Safety
Authors: Rosekind Mark R. , Flynn-Evans Erin E. , Czeisler Charles A.
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint reports the findings of a 2024 independent scientific evaluation of fatigue risk in air traffic operations commissioned by the US Federal Aviation Administration.
Large Language Model Influence on Diagnostic Reasoning
Authors: Goh Ethan , Gallo Robert , Hom Jason , Strong Eric , Weng Yingjie , Kerman Hannah , Cool Joséphine A. , Kanjee Zahir , Parsons Andrew S. , Ahuja Neera , Horvitz Eric , Yang Daniel , Milstein Arnold , Olson Andrew P. J. , Rodman Adam , Chen Jonathan H.
Published: October 2024

Importance

Large language models (LLMs) have shown promise in their performance on both multiple-choice and open-ended medical reasoning examinations, but it remains unknown whether the use of such tools improves physician diagnostic reasoning.

Objective

To assess the effect of an LLM on physicians’ diagnostic reasoning compared with conventional resources.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A single-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted from November 29 to December 29, 2023. Using remote video conferencing and in-person participation across multiple academic medical institutions, physicians with training in family medicine, internal medicine, or emergency medicine were recruited.

Intervention

Participants were randomized to either access the LLM in addition to conventional diagnostic resources or conventional resources only, stratified by career stage. Participants were allocated 60 minutes to review up to 6 clinical vignettes.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was performance on a standardized rubric of diagnostic performance based on differential diagnosis accuracy, appropriateness of supporting and opposing factors, and next diagnostic evaluation steps, validated and graded via blinded expert consensus. Secondary outcomes included time spent per case (in seconds) and final diagnosis accuracy. All analyses followed the intention-to-treat principle. A secondary exploratory analysis evaluated the standalone performance of the LLM by comparing the primary outcomes between the LLM alone group and the conventional resource group.

Results

Fifty physicians (26 attendings, 24 residents; median years in practice, 3 [IQR, 2-8]) participated virtually as well as at 1 in-person site. The median diagnostic reasoning score per case was 76% (IQR, 66%-87%) for the LLM group and 74% (IQR, 63%-84%) for the conventional resources-only group, with an adjusted difference of 2 percentage points (95% CI, −4 to 8 percentage points; P = .60). The median time spent per case for the LLM group was 519 (IQR, 371-668) seconds, compared with 565 (IQR, 456-788) seconds for the conventional resources group, with a time difference of −82 (95% CI, −195 to 31; P = .20) seconds. The LLM alone scored 16 percentage points (95% CI, 2-30 percentage points; P = .03) higher than the conventional resources group.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this trial, the availability of an LLM to physicians as a diagnostic aid did not significantly improve clinical reasoning compared with conventional resources. The LLM alone demonstrated higher performance than both physician groups, indicating the need for technology and workforce development to realize the potential of physician-artificial intelligence collaboration in clinical practice.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06157944
Timing of Palliative Care, End-of-Life Quality Indicators, and Health Resource Utilization
Authors: Mah Sarah J. , Carter Ramirez Daniel M. , Schnarr Kara , Eiriksson Lua R. , Gayowsky Anastasia , Seow Hsien
Published: October 2024

Importance

Despite research supporting the benefits of early palliative care, timely initiation by gynecologic oncology patients is reportedly low, which may limit the effectiveness of palliative care.

Objective

To investigate the association of the timing of palliative care initiation with the aggressiveness of end-of-life care using established quality indicators among patients with ovarian cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based retrospective cohort study of ovarian cancer decedents used linked administrative health care data to identify palliative care provision across all health care sectors and health care professionals (specialist and nonspecialist) and end-of-life quality indicators in Ontario, Canada, from 2006 to 2018. Data analyses were performed July 12, 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the associations between the timing of palliative care and end-of-life quality indicators, including emergency department use, hospital or intensive care unit admission in the last 30 days of life, chemotherapy in last 14 days of life, death in the hospital, and a composite measure of aggressive care. Late palliative care was defined as 3 months or less prior to death.

Results

There were 8297 ovarian cancer decedents. Their mean (SD) age at death was 69.6 (13.1) years, and their mean (SD) oncologic survival was 2.8 (3.9) years. Among 3958 patients with known cancer stage, 3495 (88.3%) presented with stage III or IV disease. One-third of patients (2667 [32.1%]) received late palliative care in the final 3 months of life. Results of multivariable regression analysis indicated that any palliative care initiated earlier than 3 months before death was associated with lower rates of aggressive end-of-life care (odds ratio [OR], 0.47 [95% CI, 0.37-0.60]), death in hospital (OR, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.45-0.65]), and intensive care unit admission (OR, 0.46 [95% CI, 0.27-0.76]). Specialist palliative consultation from 3 months up to 6 monts before death was associated with decreased likelihood of late chemotherapy (OR, 0.46 [95% CI, 0.24-0.88]).

Conclusions

Findings from this cohort study suggested that early palliative care may be associated with less-aggressive end-of-life care than late palliative care. Implementation strategies for early palliative care initiation are needed to optimize care quality and health resource utilization at the end of life.
Dual Recognition Strategy‐Based Transistor Sensor Array for Ultrasensitive and Multi‐Target Detection of Antibiotics
Authors: Tao Tian , Wei Xiaojie , Ye Ziwei , Zong Boyang , Li Qiuju , Mao Shun
Published: October 2024

Multi‐target detection is a notable development direction in the field of analytical methods, boasting significant potential for breakthroughs in complex sample detection. Herein, an extended gate field‐effect transistor (EGFET) sensor array for ultrasensitive and multi‐target detection of antibiotics is developed. To enhance the recognition ability for diverse antibiotics, a dual‐recognition strategy based on tailor‐made molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) and aptamer is adopted to fabricate the extended gate electrode (sensing electrode). The dual‐recognition strategy‐based EGFET exhibits superior sensitivity, selectivity, and stability compared to single recognition probes due to the synergistic effect of the affinities of MIP and specific aptamer. The developed sensor array can detect three types of antibiotics, including ampicillin, amoxicillin, and kanamycin, at the same time with record‐low detection limit (fM level) and a detection range spanning six orders of magnitude. The practical detection of antibiotics in various samples (tap water, river water, milk, honey, and artificial urine) further validates the feasibility of the sensor array in practical applications. The key advantages of flexibility, high sensitivity and selectivity, and multifunctionality demonstrate the high potential of EGFET sensor array for simultaneous detection of multiple target molecules.
Flexible Hair‐Like Piezoelectric Acoustic Particle Velocity Sensor with Enhanced Sensitivity for Speaker Recognition
Authors: Jin Biao , Cao Hongchao , Sheng Tianyu , Gong Zheng , Dong Zihao , Gai Yansong , Jiang Yonggang
Published: October 2024

Flexible resonant acoustic sensors exhibit enhanced sensitivity near their resonant frequencies and have attracted increasing interest as essential components for next‐generation human‐machine speech interactions. However, membrane‐based resonant acoustic sensors are bulky owing to the inherently high bending stiffness of the sensing membrane. Inspired by the tiny hair‐based sensitive acoustic receptors of spiders, this study reports a hair‐like piezoelectric resonant acoustic particle velocity sensor (HP‐APVS) that enables highly sensitive sound sensing with a significantly reduced size. The HP‐APVS device is essentially a polyimide cantilever array fabricated using Nb0.02‐Pb(Zr0.6Ti0.4)O3 (PZT) on polyimide and self‐bending processes. The experimental results demonstrate that the HP‐APVS shows a linear response to acoustic particle velocity instead of acoustic pressure, with enhanced sensitivity in the resonance mode. Additionally, the proposed HP‐APVS exhibits an outstanding speaker recognition rate of 95.3% with an error rate reduction of 75% compared with that of a reference commercial microphone, indicating many potential applications in the realms of biometric authentication, voice user interfaces, and other intelligent acoustic electronics.
Clinically Relevant and Precisely Printable Live Adipose Tissue–Based Bio‐Ink for Volumetric Soft Tissue Reconstruction
Authors: Jeong Wonwoo , Son Jeonghyun , Choi Jeonghan , Han Jonghyeuk , Jeon Seunggyu , Kim Min Kyeong , Ha Won , Kang Hyun‐Wook
Published: October 2024

Autologous fat is widely used in soft tissue reconstruction; however, significant volume reduction owing to necrosis and degradation of the transplanted adipose tissue (AT) remains a major challenge. To address this issue, a novel live AT micro‐fragment–based bio‐ink (ATmf bio‐ink) compatible with precision 3D printing, is developed. Live AT micro‐fragments of ≈280 µm in size are prepared using a custom tissue micronizer and they are incorporated into a fibrinogen/gelatin mixture to create the ATmf bio‐ink. AT micro‐fragments exhibit high viability and preserve the heterogeneous cell population and extracellular matrix of the native AT. The developed bio‐ink enables precise micropatterning and provides an excellent adipo‐inductive microenvironment. AT grafts produced by co‐printing the bio‐ink with polycaprolactone demonstrate a 500% improvement in volume retention and a 300% increase in blood vessel infiltration in vivo compared with conventional microfat grafts. In vivo engraftment of AT grafts is further enhanced by using a stem cell–laden ATmf bio‐ink. Last, it is successfully demonstrated that the bio‐ink is enabled for the creation of clinically relevant and patient‐specific AT grafts for patients undergoing partial mastectomy. This novel ATmf bio‐ink for volumetric soft tissue reconstruction offers a pioneering solution for addressing the limitations of existing clinical techniques.
Using a Supramolecular Monomer Formulation Approach to Engineer Modular, Dynamic Microgels, and Composite Macrogels
Authors: Rovers Maritza M. , Rogkoti Theodora , Bakker Bram K. , Bakal Kalpit J. , van Genderen Marcel H.P. , Salmeron‐Sanchez Manuel , Dankers Patricia Y.W.
Published: October 2024

Microgels show advantages over bulk hydrogels due to convenient control over microgel size and composition, and the ability to use microgels to modularly construct larger hierarchical scaffold hydrogel materials. Here, supramolecular chemistry is used to formulate supramolecular polymer, dynamic microgels solely held together by non‐covalent interactions. Four‐fold hydrogen bonding ureido‐pyrimidinone (UPy) monomers with different functionalities are applied to precisely tune microgel properties in a modular way, via variations in monomer concentration, bifunctional crosslinker ratio, and the incorporation of supramolecular dyes and peptides. Functionalization with a bioactive supramolecular cell‐adhesive peptide induced selectivity of cells toward the bioactive microgels over non‐active, non‐functionalized versions. Importantly, the supramolecular microgels can also be applied as microscale building blocks into supramolecular bulk macrogels with tunable dynamic behavior: a robust and weak macrogel, where the micro‐ and macrogels are composed of similar molecular building blocks. In a robust macrogel, microgels act as modular micro‐building blocks, introducing multi‐compartmentalization, while in a weak macrogel, microgels reinforce and enhance mechanical properties. This work demonstrates the potential to modularly engineer higher‐length‐scale structures using small molecule supramolecular monomers, wherein microgels serve as versatile and modular micro‐building units.
Detection of Serratia marcescens and Mierococcus lysodeikticus Bacterial Cells Using Cerium Oxide/Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Heterostructure‐Based Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor
Authors: Vasimalla Yesudasu , Singh Shivam , Balaji Ramachandran , Srither Satturappan Ravisekaran , Kumar Santosh
Published: October 2024

This article explores a novel surface plasmon resonance sensor for detecting the Serratia marcescens and Mierococcus lysodeikticus bacteria cells employing the cerium oxide (CeO2) and transition metal dichalcogenides heterostructure. The proposed sensor is designed based on the Kretschmann configuration, where silver (Ag) is deposited over a prism's surface to excite the surface plasmons. The transfer matrix method and angular interrogation technique are exploited for analyzing the sensor's performance at a wavelength of 633 nm. Firstly, the optimization of the prism and metal film is analyzed by selecting the minimum reflectance, better sensitivity, and quality factor. Secondly, the influence of the proposed structure in the sensor is executed by the performances of different structures, which are made with defined layers. Thirdly, different sensing parameters are analyzed for the considered bacterial cells, resulting in the maximum attained parameters being a sensitivity of 369.40° RIU−1, QF of 151.35 RIU−1, and detection accuracy of 7.57. Finally, the comparative study also shows the noteworthy enhancement using the proposed sensor compared with existing work. Therefore, the proposed sensor can be used as a carrier for detecting the bacterial cells and establishing a new platform for biomolecular and biomedical applications.
The Role of Thermally Activated Charge Separation in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Jain Nakul , Jasiūnas Rokas , Li Xian'e , Zhang Huotian , Fu Jiehao , Zhang Rui , Gang Li , Fahlman Mats , Gulbinas Vidmantas , Gao Feng
Published: October 2024

In recent years, organic solar cells (OSCs) have shown high power efficiencies approaching 20%. However, the fundamental mechanisms of charge separation in these highly efficient devices have been a subject of intensive debates. Here, the charge separation efficiency (CSE) is extensively investigated across a wide range of blend systems with different energetic offsets. The findings unveil the temperature‐dependent nature of charge separation in low‐offset systems, emphasizing its significant contribution to the overall CSE. An intriguing inverse correlation between CSE and charge separation activation energy in relation to the offset is also observed. These results shed new light on the factors underlying the high CSE observed in the state‐of‐the‐art devices.
Fluorine Labeling and 19F NMR Spectroscopy to Study Biological Molecules and Molecular Complexes
Authors: Werle Yannick , Kovermann Michael
Published: October 2024

High‐resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy represents a key methodology for studying biomolecules and their interplay with other molecules. Recent developments in labeling strategies have made it possible to incorporate fluorine into proteins and peptides reliably, with manageable efforts and, importantly, in a highly site‐specific manner. Paired with its excellent NMR spectroscopic properties and absence in most biological systems, fluorine has enabled scientists to investigate a rather wide range of scientific objectives, including protein folding, protein dynamics and drug discovery. Furthermore, NMR spectroscopic experiments can be conducted in complex environments, such as cell lysate or directly inside living cells. This review presents selected studies demonstrating how 19F NMR spectroscopic approaches enable to contribute to the understanding of biomolecular processes. Thereby the focus has been set to labeling strategies available and specific NMR experiments performed to answer the underlying scientific objective.
A Novel High‐Throughput Immunoaffinity LC–MS/MS Assay for P‐III‐NP and Other Fragments of Type III Procollagen in Human Serum
Authors: Huynh Huu‐Hien , Barahona‐Carrillo Lili , Moncrieffe Danielle , Cowan David A. , Forrest Katrina , Becker Jessica O. , Emrick Michelle A. , Thomas Andreas , Thevis Mario , Eichner Daniel , Byers Peter H. , Miller Geoffrey D. , Hoofnagle Andrew N.
Published: October 2024

The amino‐terminal propeptide of type III procollagen (P‐III‐NP) is used with IGF‐I to detect the illicit use of growth hormone and to monitor growth hormone therapy. However, the only currently available assays for P‐III‐NP are immunoassays, which are not well harmonized. In addition, other fragments of type III procollagen may better evaluate collagen turnover. We aimed to develop a high‐throughput assay using immunoaffinity enrichment coupled to ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) to quantify peptides belonging to three different regions of type III procollagen in human serum simultaneously. To facilitate higher throughput, we transferred the assay from microcentrifuge tubes to a 96‐well plate format with partially automated pipetting. The method was linear (Pearson's R ≥ 0.994) over an estimated concentration range of 1.35–13.3 nM, 0.04–2.28 nM, and 0.26–5.1 nM for each surrogate peptide of P‐III‐NP, collagen degradation products, and the carboxyl‐terminal propeptide, respectively. Intra‐day and inter‐day imprecision were both < 13.6%, and the results of robustness testing were also encouraging. The method was successfully applied to capillary blood samples obtained using Tasso+ microsampling devices. Modest correlation of P‐III‐NP concentration was observed between our new method and a WADA‐approved immunoassay (N = 40, Pearson's R = 0.789) with a significant bias of −87.8%. Our method simultaneously quantifies four peptides belonging to three regions of type III procollagen in human serum. High bias between assays highlights the need for common higher‐order calibrators or reference materials to help improve the comparability of results across laboratories.
Proteomic biomarkers and pathway analysis for progression to heart failure in three epidemiological representative cohorts
Authors: Dieden Anna , Girerd Nicolas , Ottosson Filip , Molvin John , Pareek Manan , Melander Olle , Bachus Erasmus , Råstam Lennart , Lindblad Ulf , Daka Bledar , Leósdóttir Margrét , Nilsson Peter M. , Olsen Michael H. , Clark Andrew L. , Cleland John G.F. , Delles Christian , González Arantxa , Lamiral Zohra , Duarte Kevin , Rossignol Patrick , Zannad Faiez , Gudmundsson Petri , Jujić Amra , Magnusson Martin
Published: October 2024

Aims

Biomarkers associated with asymptomatic ventricular dysfunction might improve risk stratification and identify pathways leading to heart failure (HF). We explored the association between proteomic biomarkers and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), diastolic dysfunction (DD) and incident HF in three population‐based cohorts.

Methods and results

A chip was used to measure 92 protein biomarkers in blood samples from >1500 Malmö Preventive Project (MPP) participants, of whom 514 had LVH (34%), 462 had DD (32.4%) and, over a median follow‐up of 13 (11–14) years, 130 developed HF (7.7%). Findings were confirmed in the STANISLAS (n > 1500, 238 participants with LVH, 76 with DD) and HOMAGE case‐control (562 cases of incident HF, 871 controls) cohorts. In multivariable logistic or Cox regression analyses adjusted for age, sex and cardiovascular risk factors, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) was associated with LVH, DD and incident HF in all cohorts: MPP (LVH odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval] 1.48 [1.28–1.71]; DD OR 1.71 [1.53–1.92]; HF HR 1.98 [1.66–2.36]); STANISLAS (LVH OR 1.20 [1.02–1.41]; DD OR 1.46 [1.12–1.90]); HOMAGE (HF HR 1.85 [1.62–2.12]). Galectin‐4, growth differentiation factor 15 and suppression of tumorigenicity‐2 were associated with incident HF in MPP and HOMAGE. A pathway enrichment analysis suggested that inflammation and viral infection were related to incident HF.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study reinforces the role of NT‐proBNP as a key biomarker for asymptomatic cardiac dysfunction and incident HF, consistent with its established use in clinical practice. This underscores the value of NT‐proBNP for identifying patients at high risk for HF, and provides insights into pathways leading to HF and potential therapeutic targets.
A Bibliometric and Knowledge‐Map Analysis of Macrophage Polarization in Insulin Resistance From 1999 to 2023
Authors: Lin Chuning , Chen Yuan , Ge Yao , Niu Huimin , Zhang Xinyi , Jiang Feng , Wu Chuyan
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite numerous studies confirming the association between insulin resistance (IR) and macrophage polarization, there is a lack of bibliometric analysis in this area. Therefore, our objective is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of published literature and identify potential future research trends using bibliometrics.

Method

Publications on the topic of macrophage polarization in IR were gathered from the Web of Science Core Collection database (WoSCC) spanning the years 1999–2023. Bibliometric analysis and visualization were conducted using VOSviewers, CiteSpace, the R package “bibliometrix” and Tableau Public.

Result

A total of 3435 articles published between 1999 and 2023 were included in the analysis. These articles originated from 75 countries, with the United States and China leading in contributions. The top five research institutions are the University of California, San Diego, Harvard University, the University of Michigan, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Huazhong University of Science and Technology. In this research domain, Diabetes is the most frequently published journal, and the Journal of Clinical Investigation is the most co‐cited. Among the 19,398 authors contributing to these publications, Lumeng CN. not only authored the most papers but also received the highest number of co‐citations. “Insulin resistance” emerges as a primary keyword in the analysis of emerging research hotspots.

Conclusion

For the first time, bibliometric methods have been employed to conduct a comprehensive summary of papers relevant to macrophage polarization in IR. This study aims to identify the current research direction and future research hotspots, offering valuable guidance and insights for scholars in the field.
Retinoic Acid (RA): A Critical Immunoregulatory Molecule in Asthma and Allergies
Authors: Lotfi Ramin
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Asthma and allergies are chronic inflammatory disorders that are triggered owing to aberrant responses of the immune system against typically innocent environmental substances. Retinoic acid (RA) represents a biologically active metabolite of vitamin A (VA) and high‐affinity ligand for RA receptor (RAR) that is implicated in a wide variety of biological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, organogenesis, reproduction, and immune responses. In the immune system, RA contributes to the induction of regulatory T (Treg) cells, adhesion molecules required for homing of B and T cells in the gut, and tolerance. Noteworthy, RA has a pivotal role in maintaining the balance of Th17‐Treg cells and is also indispensable for appropriate responses of T helper (Th) cells.

Aims

This mini‐review article intends to expose the immune functions of RA, with an emphasis on the enzymatic pathways converting VA into RA and its receptor‐dependent actions in asthma and allergies.

Conclusions

Recent findings have depicted that RA levels are reduced in asthma and allergies and that treatment with RA alleviates allergy symptoms and airway inflammation. RA also modulates allergic airway disorders by inhibiting Th2/Th17 response and increasing Treg cells. Therefore, RA could be considered a novel and promising therapeutic agent to be studied and used for treating these diseases.
Examining self‐efficacy among recent graduates of postgraduate dental education programs
Authors: Irwin Scott P. , Durning Steven J. , Dong Ting
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To examine the perceived self‐efficacy of dentists who recently completed Graduate Dental Education (GDE) programs and identify how closely it aligns with their supervisors’ assessments of them. Self‐efficacy has been associated with academic pursuits, motivation, and engagement, which may affect how dental providers practice, seek continuing education, and pursue future opportunities. 

Methods

Recent graduates of military GDE programs rated their self‐efficacy on specific tasks within each of the seven domains of dental competencies. Their supervisors completed a similar survey, rating the graduate's performance in the same tasks. Graduates’ mean ratings were calculated for each domain, spearman correlations were calculated for all graduate‐supervisor task ratings, and the magnitude of differences between graduate and supervisor domain means were examined.

Results

Graduates’ perceived self‐efficacy ranged from 3.57 to 4.41 out of 5.0. Correlations for each task were universally weak (ρ  =  ‐0.04–0.27). Correlations for domain means were also weak (ρ  =  0.06–0.14).  Overall, graduates rated themselves lower than their supervisors, with mean differences ranging from ‐0.17 (p = 0.003, Cohen's d = 0.20) for Professionalism to ‐0.95 (p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.90) for Health Promotion.

Conclusions

Overall, graduates’ perceived self‐efficacy was moderate to high for 26 tasks across seven domains. However, in aggregate, graduates underestimated their abilities compared to performance measures from their current supervisors, although effect sizes were small. The accuracy of graduates’ self‐efficacy varied by program length and the clinical specialty of their supervisors. High‐performing graduates always underestimated themselves while low‐performing graduates often overestimated themselves.
The role of regulatory focus types in the improvement of perinatal oral health knowledge among dental residents
Authors: Kar Kumari Saswati , Cui Shasha , Sanders Michelle , Meng Yuntian , Jallad Nisreen Al , Wu TongTong , Cacciato Rita , Xiao Jin
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aims to assess dental residents’ perinatal oral health (POH) knowledge and Regulatory Focus Types' (RFT) impact on their knowledge before and after education.

Materials and methods

A total of 53 dental residents from upstate New York participated from 2019 to 2021. A validated questionnaire collected demographic data, resident's POH knowledge, RFT, and self‐reported burnout levels. In the wave 1 cross‐sectional setting, 22 residents participated; while in the wave 2 longitudinal setting, 31 residents completed the questionnaire at the baseline and an 1‐hour POH lecture. Multiple linear regression assesses factors related to baseline and post‐education POH knowledge and burnout, and logistic regression examined factors related to the RFT types (high‐on‐promotion and high‐on‐prevention).

Results

Overall, 43.40% of the dental residents were high‐on‐promotion focus, and 47.17% were high‐on‐prevention focus. Baseline POH knowledge was relatively low, with an average score of 2.57 ± 1.05 out of the maximum score of 5. Residents with high promotion‐focus had statistically significant lower scores on the baseline POH (p < 0.05), while high prevention‐focused residents demonstrated less improvement of POH following perinatal oral health education (p < 0.05). Residents who were high on‐promotion appeared to have a lower burnout rate (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The study revealed that education effectively enhanced POH knowledge among participating dental residents. RFT significantly influenced knowledge improvement, with high promotion‐focused residents showing more substantial gains. To encourage adherence to perinatal oral health policies and guidelines among dental practitioners, future educational approach should consider practitioners’ RFT to improve knowledge adoption.
Cross‐cultural adaptation and validation of a French version of the perceived personal control questionnaire as an outcome measure instrument for genetic counseling
Authors: Raîche Camille , Lapointe Julie , Villafane‐Bernier Célia , Chiquette Jocelyne , Bouchard Karine , Pelletier Sylvie , Omeranovic Arian , Fortier Philippe , Brousseau Claire , Lauzier Sophie , Hébert Johanne , Dorval Michel , Nabi Hermann
Published: October 2024

The perceived personal control (PPC) questionnaire serves as an instrument to assess the concept of PPC, which refers to a person's perception of their ability to achieve positive outcomes while avoiding the negative effects of a given situation. Developed and used as a patient‐reported outcome measure (PROM) in genetic counseling, the PPC questionnaire has been translated and validated in several languages, but not in French. The aim of this study was to cross‐culturally adapt and validate a French version of the PPC questionnaire to evaluate genetic counseling services for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). After the translation into French, cognitive interviews were conducted with nine participants who had attended genetic counseling for HBOC to examine the adequacy of this French version and to verify participants' understanding of the questionnaire items. Cognitive interview data suggested that slight modifications should be made to four of the nine items and that it would be beneficial to add a short introduction to ensure that participants' interpretation corresponded to the intended meaning. Psychometric validation was then conducted with 99 participants who had also attended genetic counseling for HBOC. Counselees completed the questionnaire before and after their genetic consultation. The acceptability of the questionnaire was demonstrated by the presence of few missing items. The original three‐factor solution was not confirmed by our exploratory factor analysis, suggesting that the questionnaire should be used as a one‐dimensional instrument. The internal consistency of the questionnaire was high, with Cronbach's alpha of 0.89 before genetic counseling and 0.88 after. The significant increase in PPC scores before and after genetic counseling supports the responsiveness of the questionnaire. Convergent validity was confirmed by positive association with counselees' satisfaction with genetic counseling. These properties suggest the French PPC questionnaire is a valuable instrument for use as a PROM in genetic counseling research.
Preferences of parents from diverse backgrounds on genomic screening of apparently healthy newborns
Authors: Gold Nina B. , Omorodion Jacklyn O. , del Rosario Maya C. , Rivera‐Cruz Greysha , Hsu Celeste Y. , Ziniel Sonja I. , Holm Ingrid A.
Published: October 2024

Genomic sequencing has been proposed as a strategy to expand newborn screening. Perspectives on genomic newborn screening from parents of diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds are needed to shape equitable implementation of this modality. We conducted 20 semi‐structured interviews (15 English, 5 Spanish) and seven focus groups (4 English, 3 Spanish) with parents from diverse backgrounds to assess their perspectives regarding which disorders and variants might be screened, data privacy, and barriers to pursuing specialized care. Parents felt that genomic newborn screening would provide them with improved understanding of their children's health and had the potential to yield health and personal benefits. Themes that became evident included: interest in childhood and family health risks, the value of emotional preparation and personal planning, understanding of uncertain and low‐risk results, concerns regarding data privacy, and concerns about support following the receipt of a positive newborn screening result. The expected benefits and concerns expressed by parents of diverse backgrounds regarding genomic newborn screening should guide future policy decisions. Their preferences should be considered prior to the implementation of large‐scale genomic newborn screening programs.
3D Vortex‐Energetics in the Left Pulmonary Artery for Differentiating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Pulmonary Venous Hypertension Groups Using 4D Flow MRI
Authors: Elbaz Mohammed S.M. , Shafeghat Melika , Freed Benjamin H. , Sarnari Roberto , Zilber Zachary , Avery Ryan , Markl Michael , Allen Bradley D. , Carr James
Published: October 2024

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a life‐threatening. Differentiation pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) from pulmonary venous hypertension (PVH) is important due to distinct treatment protocols. Invasive right heart catheterization (RHC) remains the reference standard but noninvasive alternatives are needed.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To evaluate 4D Flow MRI‐derived 3D vortex energetics in the left pulmonary artery (LPA) for distinguishing PAH from PVH.

Study Type

Prospective case–control.

Population/Subjects

Fourteen PAH patients (11 female) and 18 PVH patients (9 female) diagnosed from RHC, 23 healthy controls (9 female).

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 T; gradient recalled echo 4D flow and balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) cardiac cine sequences.

Assessment

LPA 3D vortex cores were identified using the lambda2 method. Peak vortex‐contained kinetic energy (vortex‐KE) and viscous energy loss (vortex‐EL) were computed from 4D flow MRI. Left and right ventricular (LV, RV) stroke volume (LVSV, RVSV) and ejection fraction (LVEF, RVEF) were computed from bSSFP. In PH patients, mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP), pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWR) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) were determined from RHC.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U test for group comparisons, Spearman's rho for correlations, logistic regression for identifying predictors of PAH vs. PVH and develop models, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for model performance. Significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

PAH patients showed significantly lower vortex‐KE (37.14 [14.68–78.52] vs. 76.48 [51.07–120.51]) and vortex‐EL (9.93 [5.69–25.70] vs. 24.22 [12.20–32.01]) than PVH patients. The combined vortex‐KE and LVEF model achieved an AUC of 0.89 for differentiating PAH from PVH. Vortex‐EL showed significant negative correlations with mPAP (rho = −0.43), PCWP (rho = 0.37), PVR (rho = −0.64). In the PAH group, PVR was significantly negatively correlated with LPA vortex‐KE (rho = −0.73) and vortex‐EL (rho = −0.71), and vortex‐KE significantly correlated with RVEF (rho = 0.69), RVSV, (rho = 0.70). In the PVH group, vortex‐KE (rho = 0.52), vortex‐EL significantly correlated with RVSV (rho = 0.58).

Data Conclusion

These preliminary findings suggest that 4D flow MRI‐derived LPA vortex energetics have potential to noninvasively differentiate PAH from PVH and correlate with invasive hemodynamic parameters.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3