bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of machine learning in monitoring fouling in heat exchangers in chemical engineering: A systematic review
Authors: Villa Lucas , Zanini Brusamarello Claiton
Published: September 2024

The present work consists of a systematic literature review that examines studies on using machine learning to monitor fouling in heat exchangers in the chemical engineering area. The research was conducted in four renowned databases: SCOPUS, Science Direct, IEEE, and Web of Science. The main objective of the investigation was to identify the most prevalent machine learning methods, evaluate their performance, and analyze the challenges associated with their implementation and prospects. Using the StArt software, seven relevant scientific papers from the established review protocol. The most frequently identified methods were support vector machine (SVM) and k‐nearest neighbours (k‐NN), followed by decision tree. However, long‐term and short‐term predictors and long short‐term memory (LSTM) and non‐linear autoregressive with exogenous inputs (NARX) algorithms were the most successful, followed by Gaussian process regression (GPR), SVM, k‐NN, and improved grey wolf optimization–support vector regression (IGWO‐SVR) algorithms. Although these methods inspire confidence, it is important to highlight that they are still in the software testing phase. Key gaps identified include the need for further studies on real industrial applications and the integration of advanced sensors and measurement systems. Future directions point to developing more robust and generalized algorithms capable of dealing with the complexity of real systems.
Distributed learning for kernel mode–based regression
Authors: Wang Tao
Published: September 2024

We propose a parametric kernel mode–based regression built on the mode value, which provides robust and efficient estimators for datasets containing outliers or heavy‐tailed distributions. To address the challenges posed by massive datasets, we integrate this regression method with distributed statistical learning techniques, which greatly reduces the required amount of primary memory and simultaneously accommodates heterogeneity in the estimation process. By approximating the local kernel objective function with a least squares format, we are able to preserve compact statistics for each worker machine, facilitating the reconstruction of estimates for the entire dataset with minimal asymptotic approximation error. Additionally, we explore shrinkage estimation through local quadratic approximation, showcasing that the resulting estimator possesses the oracle property through an adaptive LASSO approach. The finite‐sample performance of the developed method is illustrated using simulations and real data analysis.
Screening for Fabry disease in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy in China: A multicentre and prospective study
Authors: Lin Zongwei , Zhang Xinyu , Liu Yan , Miao Dongxia , Zhang Huanyi , Zhang Tao , Zhang Fenglei , Li Peng , Dai Hongyan , Jiang Guihua , Zhang Dongxia , Zhong Lin , Lu Huixia , Ji Xiaoping
Published: September 2024

Aims

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is frequently detected via echocardiography in individuals with Fabry disease (FD), sometimes leading to confusion with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) of other aetiologies. Considering this diagnosis challenge, FD should be included in the list of differential diagnosis for patients presenting with LVH. To address this concern, we conducted a prospective screening study in China, using dried blood spot (DBS) testing, to evaluate patients with unexplained LVH.

Methods

Our study was designed as a nationwide, multicentre prospective investigation. A total of 1015 patients from 55 different centres who were diagnosed with LVH by echocardiography were screened in the study from September 2022 to December 2023. Demographic information, biochemistry data, echocardiography parameters and clinical observations were meticulously collected from all participants. The DBS method was used to assess α‐galactosidase A (α‐Gal A) activity in males and both α‐Gal A and globotriaosylsphingosine (lyso‐Gb3) levels in females.

Results

The final screening population included 906 patients (589 males, 65%) with LVH, characterized by a mean maximal myocardial thickness of 14.8 ± 4.6 mm and an average age of 56.9 ± 17.2 years. In total, 43 patients (38 males, 5 females) exhibited low α‐Gal A activity measurement (<2.2 μmol/L), while 21 patients (10 males, 11 females) presented low α‐Gal A activity or elevated lyso‐Gb3 levels (>1.1 ng/mL). Among these patients, eight individuals (7 males and 1 female) were genetically confirmed to harbour pathogenic GLA mutations, resulting in a total prevalence of 0.88%. Compared with patients without FD, patients with FD tended to have proteinuria (75% vs. 21.2%, P = 0.001), family history of HCM (37.5% vs. 2.3%, P < 0.01) and neuropathic pain (37.5% vs. 4.4%, P < 0.01) but lower systolic blood pressure (118.5 ± 12.5 vs. 143.3 ± 29.3 mmHg, P = 0.017). Five mutations were previously recognized as associated with FD while the remaining two, p.Asp313Val (c.938A>T) and c.547+3A>G, were deemed potentially pathogenic. Subsequent familial validation post‐diagnosis identified an additional 14 confirmed cases.

Conclusions

This pioneering screening study for FD among Chinese patients with unexplained LVH using DBS measurement, revealed an FD detection rate of 0.88%. Our findings confirmed that the combined measurement of lyso‐Gb3 and α‐Gal A activity is beneficial for primary screening of FD in patients with LVH. Given the availability of efficacious therapies and the value of cascade screening in extended families, early detection of FD in LVH patients is clinically important.
Application of a Solid‐State Potentiometric Sensor for Point‐of‐care Diagnostics of Flucloxacillin in Spiked Human Plasma; Whiteness Evaluation
Authors: Tony Rehab Moussa , Galal Maha M. , Mahmoud Amr M. , Soudi Aya T.
Published: September 2024

Antibiotic resistance is a crisis that is escalating nowadays. Thus, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is crucial to personalize the dose. Point‐of‐care (POC) devices are very effective in TDM where drug concentration can be easily and continuously monitored. This work describes for the first time the use of inexpensive, transportable, efficacious, and eco‐friendly POC solid‐state potentiometric sensor for the TDM of Flucloxacillin (FLU) in spiked plasma samples. This was achieved by using an innovative glassy carbon electrode modified with ion sensing membrane doped with carbon nanotubes. Optimization of the sensing membrane composition was performed using different plasticizers and by adding an ionophore. This was followed by doping the ion sensing membrane with carbon nanotubes which resulted in enhancing the sensor's sensitivity towards FLU. Over a concentration range from 1.0×10−5–1.0×10−2 M FLU, a linear response was obtained with a slope of 56.6 mV/decade. Our proposed sensor has been validated according to IUPAC recommendations with acceptable results.

It was effectively employed for a selective determination of FLU in the presence of a co‐formulated antibiotic (Amoxicillin), along with other excipients in the dosage form, and in spiked plasma samples, without any interference. The whiteness of the method was assessed, which proves the high greenness and superb functionality of our proposed method.
Electrokinetic particle trapping in microfluidic wells using conductive nanofiber mats
Authors: West J. Hunter , Mondal Tonoy K. , Williams Stuart J.
Published: September 2024

The frequency dependence of electrokinetic particle trapping using large‐area (>mm2) conductive carbon nanofiber (CNF) mat electrodes is investigated. The fibers provide nanoscale geometric features for the generation of high electric field gradients, which is necessary for particle trapping via dielectrophoresis (DEP). A device was fabricated with an array of microfluidic wells for repeated experiments; each well included a CNF mat electrode opposing an aluminum electrode. Fluorescent microspheres (1 µm) were trapped at various electric field frequencies between 30 kHz and 1 MHz. Digital images of each well were analyzed to quantify particle trapping. DEP trapping by the CNF mats was greater at all tested frequencies than that of the control of no applied field, and the greatest trapping was observed at a frequency of 600 kHz, where electrothermal flow is more significantly weakened than DEP. Theoretical analysis and measured impedance spectra indicate that this result was due to a combination of the frequency dependence of DEP and capacitive behavior of the well‐based device.
Epilepsy surgery below the age of 5 years: Are we still in time to preserve developmental and intellectual functions?
Authors: Cappelletti Simona , Correale Cinzia , Mercier Mattia , Pavia Giusy Carfi , Falamesca Chiara , De Benedictis Alessandro , Marras Carlo Efisio , Quintavalle Chiara , Luisi Concetta , Pepi Chiara , Chiarello Daniela , Vigevano Federico , De Palma Luca , Specchio Nicola
Published: September 2024

Objective

The aim of this study is to describe the pre‐ and post‐operative developmental and intellectual functions in a cohort of patients who underwent surgery for drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE) before the age of 5 years.

Method

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and neurodevelopmental assessments of a cohort of 80 surgically treated pediatric patients with DRE. We included patients if they had at least one pre‐ and one post‐surgical neuropsychological assessments; 27 met the inclusion criteria. We evaluated Developmental Quotient (DQ) and Intelligence Quotient (IQ) before and after surgery. We identified two groups based on psychological evaluation outcome: Group 1, with stable or improved developmental and intellectual functions, and Group 2, experiencing developmental and intellectual loss.

Results

The mean age at seizure onset was 1.2 ± 1.0 years, and the mean age at surgery was 2.9 ± 1.2 years. At the last follow‐up (mean 4 years, SD ± 2), 19/27 (70%) patients were seizure‐ and drug‐free; 18/27 patients (67%) fit in Group 1, and 9/27 (33%) fit in Group 2. The mean age at surgery was 2.6 years (SD ± 1.1; range 1.2–5.1) in Group 1 and 3.4 years in Group 2 (SD ± 1.1; range 1.6–5.0). Group 1 had a lower pre‐operative DQ/IQ total score than Group 2 (median DQ/IQ respectively 82 vs 108, p = 0.05). Between pre‐ and post‐assessments, we found that in Group 1, Performance scores improved (82.7 vs 102, p = 0.001), while in Group 2, the Total and Verbal scores worsened (respectively 108 vs 75, p = 0.008, and 100 vs 76, p = 0.021).

Significance

Our study's results emphasize the positive impact of surgery before the age of 5 years on developmental and intellectual outcomes. Despite limitations such as a small sample size, lack of a control group, and diverse etiologies, our findings support the crucial role of early intervention in preserving or enhancing developmental and intellectual functions in young patients with DRE.

Plain Language Summary

This retrospective study, conducted at the Bambino Gesù Children Hospital in Italy, reports neuropsychological and developmental and/or cognitive data for children undergoing early epilepsy surgery (before the age of 5). It found that children with lower developmental or cognitive profiles gained the highest scores on post‐operative neuropsychological evaluations. This study provides information on the potential benefits of early surgery in shortening the duration of epilepsy, preventing or arresting deterioration, and enhancing plasticity and recovery.
Integrated Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System for Optimized Energy Management: Leveraging Photovoltaic and Phase Change Material Thermal Storage
Authors: Shehram Muhammad , Hamidi Muhammad Najwan , Wahab Aeizaal Azman Abdul , Desa Mohd Khairunaz Mat
Published: September 2024

Reliable energy sources are crucial for both economic growth and quality of life. In developing countries, where expensive fuels are often the primary energy source, governments are exploring innovative solutions like small‐scale, IoT‐based projects to achieve energy independence in buildings. This research investigates the integration of renewable energy technologies, statistical modeling, cloud computing, and IoT to develop a self‐managing energy system for buildings. The system prioritizes renewable sources, specifically monocrystalline solar cells with 20% efficiency for photovoltaic (PV) energy and flat plate collectors with 90% efficiency and minimal energy loss for thermal energy. Thermal energy is stored in paraffin wax, chosen for its high storage efficiency and thermal properties. The system also utilizes an absorption chiller with a high coefficient of performance (COP) to provide cooling using solar thermal energy. The building's energy loads are categorized as A, B, C, and D, each utilizing both PV and thermal energy. A SCADA system oversees the operation, monitoring the on–off status of these loads. The system is designed for continuous operation, with simulations conducted using Anaconda Jupyter Notebook and Python. This model aims to offer a sustainable and efficient energy solution for buildings, meeting energy demands while optimizing energy use.
Body mass index associated with respiration predicts motion in resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans
Authors: Huang Shishi , Vigotsky Andrew D. , Apkarian Apkar Vania , Huang Lejian
Published: September 2024

Decreasing body mass index (BMI) reduces head motion in resting‐state fMRI (rs‐fMRI) data. Yet, the mechanism by which BMI affects head motion remains poorly understood. Understanding how BMI interacts with respiration to affect head motion can improve head motion reduction strategies. A total of 254 patients with back pain were included in this study, each of whom had two visits (interval time = 13.85 ± 7.81 weeks) during which two consecutive re‐fMRI scans were obtained. We investigated the relationships between head motion and demographic and pain‐related characteristics—head motion was reliable across scans and correlated with age, pain intensity, and BMI. Multiple linear regression models determined that BMI was the main determinant in predicting head motion. BMI was also associated with two features derived from respiration signal. Anterior–posterior and superior–inferior motion dominated both overall motion magnitude and the coupling between motion and respiration. BMI interacted with respiration to influence motion only in the pitch dimension. These findings indicate that BMI should be a critical parameter in both study designs and analyses of fMRI data.
Evaluation of a prototype variable frequency mode soil moisture and EC probe for its final development
Authors: Miyamoto Hideki , Masuda Naoki , Yuta Hirashima , Mojid Mohammad Abdul
Published: September 2024

A prototype dielectric probe developed by the Daiki Rika Kogyo Co., Ltd, Japan, was evaluated by controlled laboratory experiments. The probe simultaneously measures the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric permittivity, which are comparable to the measurements obtained with a vector network analyser (VNA) at frequencies ranging from 10 to 160 MHz. The probe accurately (±2% error) measures the real parts of the dielectric permittivity of oil–ethanol and ethanol–water mixtures over a wide range of real permittivities (3.26 ~ 79) at frequencies ranging from 70 to 90 MHz. The imaginary parts of the dielectric permittivity of aqueous solutions are related to the electrical conductivity (EC) through a unique rational model (±2.5% error) over 80–90 MHz. Dielectric measurements by probes at the desired frequencies can eliminate/reduce the limitations of fixed‐frequency measurements, such as the effects of EC, clay composition, porosity, and organic matter, of currently available probes.
Myocardial work in idiopathic premature ventricular contractions: Assessing left ventricular function and prognosis
Authors: Zhou Chunrui , He Qian , Ding Yunchuan , Wang Qinghui , Xian Lini , Peng Xin , Mao Fuyong , Luo Qingqing , Yang Zefan , Yang Ping , Chen Jian
Published: September 2024

Background

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) can lead to impairment of left ventricular function. The noninvasive myocardial work technique, which incorporates left ventricular afterload, represents a new method for assessing left ventricular functional.

Aim

The aim of this study is to explore the value of noninvasive myocardial work technique in assessing left ventricular systolic function in patients with PVCs.

Methods

Compare the clinical data, two‐dimensional echocardiography parameters, and myocardial work parameters of 66 patients with PVCs and 35 healthy volunteers and explore the relevant risk factors for postoperative recurrence in patients with PVCs.

Results

In patients with PVCs compared to the control group, they exhibit enlargement of left atrial diameter (LAD) and left ventricular internal dimension in diastole (LVIDd), as well as thickening of the left ventricular wall. The global work waste (GWW) increases, while the global work efficiency (GWE) decreases. There is a significant negative correlation between the PVC burden and GWE (r = −0.70, p <0.01), and a significant positive correlation between the PVC burden and GWW (r = 0.58, p <0.01). GWE is a sensitive indicator for predicting the recurrence of PVCs after radiofrequency ablation. Patients with GWE <91.5%, global longitudinal strain (GLS) <15.5%, and ejection fraction (EF) <62.5% have a higher postoperative recurrence rate.

Conclusion

PVCs can cause impairment of left ventricular systolic function. GWE is the most sensitive indicator for predicting postoperative recurrence in patients with PVCs. Patients with GWE <91.5%, GLS <15.5%, and EF <62.5% have a higher postoperative recurrence rate.
A historical timeline of the development and evolution of medical diagnostic ultrasonography
Authors: Rajamani Arvind , Arun Bharadwaj Pranav , Hariharan Sriram , Ragavan Amritha Varshini , Hassan Anwar , Arvind Hemamalini , Huang Stephen
Published: September 2024

Diagnostic ultrasonography has evolved to become an indispensable imaging tool that permits non‐invasive evaluation of the whole body. In this narrative review, we present a historical timeline of the invention, development, and evolution of diagnostic medical ultrasound. It includes interesting fun facts that may help the reader identify with many of the incredible researchers in this field. This review is a tribute to the researchers who contributed to this amazing invention.
Prenatal diagnosis of monozygotic twins with phenotypic differences in chromosome 17q12 deletion syndrome
Authors: Ma Dan , Yuan Tao , Zhao Zhihui , Zeng Lan , Wang Jin , Nie Xiaocheng , Liang Huping , Pi Guanghuan , Chen Ai , Li Gen , Tang Biao , Zhu Shuyao
Published: September 2024

We present a case study highlighting prenatal ultrasound findings in monozygotic twins with chromosome 17q12 deletion syndrome. Fetus A exhibited bilateral fetal pyelectasis and talipes equinovarus, while fetus B showed hyperechogenic kidneys. Despite sharing the same de novo variant, the twins displayed distinct clinical phenotypes, suggesting the presence of non‐genetic factors influencing the phenotypic variability of this syndrome. This case represents the first documented instance of prenatally identified identical twins affected by 17q12 deletion syndrome.
Thecal and Epithecal Ossifications of the Turtle Shell: Ontogenetic And Phylogenetic Aspects
Authors: Cherepanov Gennady , Danilov Igor
Published: September 2024

The problem of the origin of the bony shell in turtles has a two‐century history and still has not lost its relevance. First, this concerns the issues of the homology, the sources of formation and the ratio of bones of different nature, that is, thecal and epithecal, in particular. This article analyzes various views on the nature of the shell elements, and proposes their typification, based on modern data on developmental biology. It is proposed that the defining characteristic of the types of shell ossifications is not the level of their anlage in the dermis (thecality or epithecality), but, first of all, the primary sources of their formation: (1) neural crest (nuchal and plastral plates); (2) vertebral and rib periosteum (neural and costal plates); and (3) dermal mesenchyme (peripheral, suprapygal and pygal plates, as well as epithecal elements). In addition, there is complete correspondence between these types of ossifications and the sequence of their appearance in the turtle ontogenesis. The data show fundamental coincidence of the modifications of the ontogenetic development and evolutionary formation of the shell ossifications and are in agreement with a stepwise model for the origin of the turtle body plan. Particular attention is paid to the origin of the epithecal elements of the turtle shell, which correspond to the additional or supernumerary ossifications and seem to have wider distribution among turtles, than previously thought.
Multiparametric MRI Scoring System of the Pancreas for the Diagnosis of Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Tirkes Temel , Yadav Dhiraj , Conwell Darwin L. , Zhao Xuandong , Dasyam Anil K. , Halappa Vivek Gowdra , Patel Aashish , Shah Zarine K. , Swensson Jordan , Takahashi Naoki , Venkatesh Sudhakar , Wachsman Ashley , Li Liang , Jennings Kristofer , Yang Yunlong , Hart Phil A. , Pandol Stephen J. , Park Walter G. , Vege Santhi Swaroop , Topazian Mark , Territo Paul R. , Persohn Scott A. , Andersen Dana K. , Fogel Evan L. ,   the Consortium for the Study of Chronic Pancreatitis, Diabetes, and Pancreatic Cancer (CPDPC)
Published: September 2024

Background

Ductal features alone may not offer high diagnostic sensitivity or most accurate disease severity of chronic pancreatitis (CP).

Purpose

Diagnose CP based on multiparametric MRI and MRCP features.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Between February 2019 and May 2021, 46 control (23 males, 49.3 ± 14.1 years), 45 suspected (20 males, 48.7 ± 12.5 years), and 46 definite (20 males, 53.7 ± 14.6 years) CP patients were enrolled at seven hospitals enrolled in the MINIMAP study. CP classification was based on imaging findings and clinical presentation.

Field Strength and Sequences

1.5 T. T1‐weighted (T1W) spoiled gradient echo, T1 map with variable flip angle, dual‐echo Dixon, secretin‐enhanced MRCP before and after secretin infusion.

Assessment

Dual‐echo fat fraction (FF), T1 relaxation time, extracellular volume (ECV), T1 signal intensity ratio of the pancreas to the spleen (T1 score), arterial‐to‐venous enhancement ratio (AVR), pancreatic tail diameter (PTD), pancreas volume, late gadolinium enhancement, pancreatic ductal elasticity (PDE), and duodenal filling grade of secretin‐enhanced MRCP were measured.

Statistical Tests

Logistic regression analysis generated CP‐MRI and secretin‐enhanced CP‐SMRI scores. Receiver operating characteristics analysis was used to differentiate definite CP from control. Interobserver agreement was assessed using Lin's concordance correlation coefficient.

Results

Compared to control, definite CP cohort showed significantly higher dual‐echo FF (7% vs. 11%), lower AVR (1.35 vs. 0.85), smaller PTD (2.5 cm vs. 1.95 cm), higher ECV (28% vs. 38%), and higher incidence of PDE loss (6.5% vs. 50%). With the cut‐off of >2.5 CP‐MRI score (dual‐echo FF, AVR, and PTD) and CP‐SMRI score (dual‐echo FF, AVR, PTD, and PDE) had cross‐validated area under the curves of 0.84 (sensitivity 87%, specificity 68%) and 0.86 (sensitivity 89%, specificity 67%), respectively. Interobserver agreement for both CP‐MRI and CP‐SMRI scores was 0.74.

Conclusion

The CP‐MRI and CP‐SMRI scores yielded acceptable performance and interobserver agreement for the diagnosis of CP.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXO22 inhibits SARS‐CoV‐2 replication via promoting proteasome‐dependent degradation of NSP5
Authors: Zhou Yuzheng , Feng Wei , Yang Chuwei , Wei Xiafei , Fan Lujie , Wu Yezi , Gao Xiang , Shen Xiaotong , Zhang Zheng , Zhao Juanjuan
Published: September 2024

The ubiquitin‐proteasome system is frequently employed to degrade viral proteins, thereby inhibiting viral replication and pathogenicity. Through an analysis of the degradation kinetics of all the SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins, our study revealed rapid degradation of several proteins, particularly NSP5. Additionally, we identified FBXO22, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, as the primary regulator of NSP5 ubiquitination. Moreover, we validated the interaction between FBXO22 and NSP5, demonstrating that FBXO22‐mediated ubiquitination of NSP5 facilitated its recognition by the proteasome, leading to subsequent degradation. Specifically, FBXO22 catalyzed the formation of K48‐linked polyubiquitin chains on NSP5 at lysine residues 5 and 90. Knockdown of FBXO22 resulted in decreased NSP5 ubiquitination levels, increased stability, and enhanced ability to evade the host innate immune response. Notably, the protein level of FBXO22 were negatively correlated with SARS‐CoV‐2 load, highlighting its importance in inhibiting viral replication. This study elucidates the molecular mechanism by which FBXO22 mediates the degradation of NSP5 and underscores its critical role in limiting viral replication. The identification of FBXO22 as a regulator of NSP5 stability provides new insights and potential avenues for targeting NSP5 in antiviral strategies.
IRF2BPL‐Related Disorder, Causing Neurodevelopmental Disorder with Regression, Abnormal Movements, Loss of Speech and Seizures (NEDAMSS) Is Characterized by Pathology Consistent with DRPLA
Authors: Venkateswaran Sunita , Michaud Jean , Ito Yoko , Geraghty Michael , Lewis Evan C. , Ellezam Benjamin , Boycott Kym M. , Dyment David A. , Kernohan Kristin D. ,   Care4Rare Canada Consortium
Published: September 2024

Background

Childhood neurodegenerative diseases often pose a challenge to clinicians to diagnose because of the degree of genetic heterogeneity and variable presentations. Here, we present a child with progressive neurodegeneration consisting of spasticity, dystonia, and ataxia in which postmortem pathological analysis led to the diagnosis of interferon regulatory factor 2 binding protein like (IRF2BPL)‐related disorder.

Methods

Detailed postmortem gross and histological examination was conducted, and findings consistent with dentatorubral‐pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA) and included polyglutamine (polyQ) inclusions. Follow up testing for the CAG repeat expansion at ATN1 was non‐diagnostic.

Results

Subsequent exome sequencing reanalysis of the research exome identified a pathogenic de novo IRF2BPL variant. The IRF2BPL c.562C>T, p.(Arg188Ter) variant, distal to the polyQ repeat tract, results in variable mRNA levels depending on the cell type examined with decreased mRNA in the brain, as well as destabilization of the protein product and corresponding downstream molecular abnormalities in patient derived cells.

Conclusion

We provide the first detailed pathological description for IRF2BPL‐related disorder, termed NEDAMSS (neurodevelopmental disorder with regression, abnormal movements, loss of speech and seizures; Mendelian Inheritance in Man, 618088) and evidence for the inclusion of this condition in the differential diagnosis of spastic‐ataxic neurodegenerative conditions, reminiscent of DRPLA. Although the individuals with NEDAMSS do not carry an expansion, the polyQ repeat tract may play a role in the pathological inclusions that would represent a novel disease mechanism for polyQ repeats. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Estimating the viscoelastic anisotropy of human skin through high‐frequency ultrasound elastography
Authors: Wu Yu‐Chen , Xu Guo‐Xuan , Chen Chien , Chuang Yi‐Hsiang , Huang Chih‐Chung
Published: September 2024

Background

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and serves distinct functions in protecting the body. The viscoelastic properties of the skin play a key role in supporting the skin‐healing process, also it may be changed due to some skin diseases.

Propose

In this study, high‐frequency ultrasound (HFUS) elastography based on a Lamb wave model was used to noninvasively assess the viscoelastic anisotropy of human skin.

Method

Elastic waves were generated through an external vibrator, and the wave propagation velocity was measured through 40 MHz ultrafast HFUS imaging. Through the use of a thin‐layer gelatin phantom, HFUS elastography was verified to produce highly accurate estimates of elasticity and viscosity. In a human study involving five volunteers, viscoelastic anisotropy was assessed by rotating an ultrasound transducer 360°.

Results

An oval‐shaped pattern in the elasticity of human forearm skin was identified, indicating the high elastic anisotropy of skin; the average elastic moduli were 24.90 ± 6.63 and 13.64 ± 2.67 kPa along and across the collagen fiber orientation, respectively. The average viscosity of all the recruited volunteers was 3.23 ± 0.93 Pa·s.

Conclusions

Although the examined skin exhibited elastic anisotropy, no evident viscosity anisotropy was observed.
Deep learning method for predicting weekly anatomical changes in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma during radiotherapy
Authors: Yang Bining , Liu Yuxiang , Wei Ran , Men Kuo , Dai Jianrong
Published: September 2024

Background

Patients may undergo anatomical changes during radiotherapy, leading to an underdosing of the target or overdosing of the organs at risk (OARs).

Purpose

This study developed a deep‐learning method to predict the tumor response of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) during treatment. This method can predict the anatomical changes of a patient.

Methods

The participants included 230 patients with NPC. The data included planning computed tomography (pCT) and routine cone‐beam CT (CBCT) images. The CBCT image quality was improved to the CT level using an advanced method. A long short‐term memory network‐generative adversarial network (LSTM‐GAN) is proposed, which can harness the forecasting ability of LSTM and the generation ability of GAN. Four models were trained to predict the anatomical changes that occurred in weeks 3–6 and named LSTM‐GAN‐week 3 to LSTM‐GAN‐week 6. The pCT and CBCT were used as input, and the tumor target volumes (TVs) and OARs were delineated on the predicted and real images (ground truth). Finally, the models were evaluated using contours and dosimetry parameters.

Results

The proposed method predicted the anatomical changes, with a dice similarity coefficient above 0.94 and 0.90 for the TVs and surrounding OARs, respectively. The dosimetry parameters were close between the prediction and ground truth. The deviations in the prescription, minimum, and maximum doses of the tumor targets were below 0.5 Gy. For serial organs (brain stem and spinal cord), the deviations in the maximum dose were below 0.6 Gy. For parallel organs (bilateral parotid glands), the deviations in the mean dose were below 0.8 Gy.

Conclusion

The proposed method can predict the tumor response to radiotherapy in the future such that adaptation can be scheduled on time. This study provides a proactive mechanism for planning adaptation, which can enable personalized treatment and save clinical time by anticipating and preparing for treatment strategy adjustments.
Outcomes from a Multidisciplinary Otolaryngology and Rheumatology Clinic for the Management of Chronic Sialadenitis
Authors: Holley Anna G. , Stern Sara M. , Park Albert H.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Determine the outcomes in children with recurrent sialadenitis after establishment of a multidisciplinary pediatric otolaryngology and rheumatology clinic.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Single‐center tertiary medical center.

Methods

We reviewed all children presenting to a multidisciplinary pediatric otolaryngology/rheumatology clinic with recurrent parotitis between December 2019 and April 2023.

Results

Thirty‐three children presented with recurrent parotitis to a multidisciplinary clinic. Seventy‐seven percent of those with childhood Sjögren's disease (cSjD) had xerophthalmia, and 67% had xerostomia. The cSjD group was more likely to have both abnormal parotid and submandibular findings when compared to the non‐cSjD group (P < .001). Sixteen percent of the cSjD group had a positive SSA/SSB autoantibody and 47% were antinuclear antibody positive. Fifty percent of the cSjD cohort had a focus score of ≥1 from a minor salivary gland biopsy. There were no significant differences from sialendoscopy outcome between the 2 groups. Seventy percent with juvenile recurrent parotitis showed partial response (PR) or complete response (CR) to sialendoscopy. In the cSjD cohort 3 (27%) reported a CR and 5 (45%) reported a PR. In the non csSjD cohort 5 (42%) reported a CR and 3 (25%) reported a PR. Ten of the 12 cSjD patients on hydroxychloroquine have shown symptom improvement.

Conclusion

The establishment of a multidisciplinary otolaryngology and rheumatology clinic can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and treatment of the child with recurrent or persistent parotitis than from a regular ENT clinic.
Pediatric Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Rates Within a Tertiary Military Medical Center
Authors: Flagg Candace A. , Walters Benjamin K. , Bowe Sarah N.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To determine our center's human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rate and identify common negative perceptions surrounding the vaccine to guide more effective HPV vaccine counseling.

Methods

We reviewed immunization records for patients ages 11 to 26 that receive care at Brooke Army Medical Center. Vaccine uptake rate was determined by dividing the number of patients who had completed the HPV vaccine series by the total target population. From October 2021 to December 2022, a clinic survey was distributed to parents (for patients ages 11‐17) or patients themselves (ages 18‐26) during otolaryngology visits to poll vaccination status and attitudes toward the vaccine.

Results

A total of 3038 patients ages 11 to 26 are enrolled for primary care at Brooke Army Medical Center, but only 962 (32%) are vaccine complete. Thirty‐five surveys were collected during the study period. Twenty‐two surveys (63%) from patients/parents reported they/their child had received the HPV vaccine. Concerns about vaccine safety, sexual behaviors, lack of immunization requirement for school, and difficulty getting scheduled were the most common reasons patients were unvaccinated.

Discussion

Counseling patients on the HPV vaccine can be difficult given the common misconceptions surrounding vaccination, but understanding these attitudes will allow otolaryngologists to educate patients more effectively. This matters since patients more knowledgeable about HPV are more likely to receive the vaccine.

Implications for Practice

Our clinic has developed new strategies in partnership with primary care departments to facilitate more streamlined vaccination for eligible patients, and moving forward we plan to trend HPV vaccination rates over time to determine our impact on uptake.
High‐efficiency electrothermal and electromagnetic interference shielding performance of expanded graphite/silicone film
Authors: Dong Yangle , Yuan Xiaoyan
Published: September 2024

Expanded graphite (EG) is a desired filler for electrothermal and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding because of its easy access, low‐cost, lightweight, high conductivity, and heat sensitivity. Herein, fluffy EG was prepared from natural flake graphite (NFG) by a simple expansive technology and subsequently heat treatment at 800°C for 2.0 h in 5% Ar/H2 atmosphere. EG/silicone films with a filling ratio of 15 wt% were obtained via hot‐pressing, which exhibited sensitive electrothermal and excellent EMI shielding performances. When the applied voltages were 5.0, 10.0, and 15.0 V, the steady‐state temperatures were 54.0, 136.5, and 237.8°C in the 30s, respectively. Meanwhile, their average EMI shielding efficiency was greater than 20 dB in 2–18 GHz at 0.84 mm, which was 6.3 times as much as NFG/silicone film. Therefore, this study offers a simple and effective strategy for preparing excellent electrothermal‐EMI shielding materials.

Highlights

Fluffy EG is prepared by a simple expansive method and treatment at 800°C.

EG/silicone films exhibit good electrothermal and EMI shielding performances.

Steady temperatures of 55.0/136.5/237.8°C are gotten at 5/10/15 V in 30 s.

The EMI shielding efficiency is greater than 20 dB at 0.84 mm.

Good properties are due to the EG with high conductivity and fluffy structure.
The power and pitfalls of underpowered studies
Authors: Carnahan Ryan M. , Brown Grant D.
Published: September 2024

This article reflects on the potential value and many pitfalls of underpowered studies to help authors and readers consider whether and how they contribute meaningfully to the published literature. A basic introduction to power and sample size calculations is provided. Several problems that can arise in analysis and publication of underpowered studies are described. In addition, features of underpowered studies that may provide value are proposed, including when the hypothesis test of interest is a limited part of the story, the data is rich enough to showcase interesting features of the population of interest, when the rarity or ubiquity of events is an important finding, and when the study is preregistered to reduce the impact of publication bias. Several reporting guidelines for underpowered studies are also suggested.
Incretin hormone agonists: Current and emerging pharmacotherapy for obesity management
Authors: Alhomoud Ibrahim S. , Talasaz Azita H. , Chandrasekaran Preethi , Brown Roy , Mehta Anurag , Dixon Dave L.
Published: September 2024

Obesity continues to be a significant global health challenge, affecting over 800 million individuals worldwide. Traditional management strategies, including dietary, exercise, and behavioral interventions, often result in insufficient and unsustainable weight loss. Lifestyle modification remains the cornerstone of obesity management, providing the foundation for other strategies. While options such as bariatric surgery remain an effective intervention for severe obesity, it is associated with its own set of risks and is typically reserved for patients who have not achieved the desired results with pharmacotherapy and lifestyle interventions. Incretin hormone agonists represent a significant advancement in the pharmacotherapy of obesity, offering substantial weight reduction and cardiometabolic benefits. Agents like liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide supported by key clinical trials such as Satiety and Clinical Adipose Liraglutide Evidence (SCALE), Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with Obesity (STEP) program trials, and Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity (SURMOUNT‐1) have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic outcomes. Additionally, novel therapies, including dual and triple incretin agonists, are under investigation and hold the potential for further advancements in obesity treatment. These novel therapies can be categorized by their mechanisms of action and route of administration into oral glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonists, triple agonists (targeting GLP‐1, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide [GIP], and glucagon receptors), and glucagon receptor‐GLP‐1 receptor co‐agonists. Other innovative approaches include oral GIP‐GLP‐1 receptor co‐agonists, and the combination of long‐acting amylin receptor agonists with GLP‐1 receptor agonists. The ongoing development of incretin‐based therapies and the expanding availability of currently available agents are expected to enhance clinical outcomes further and reduce the burden of obesity‐related health complications. This review aims to discuss the mechanisms and efficacy of current and emerging incretin hormone agonists for obesity management.
Positron Emission Tomography‐Assisted Photothermal Therapy with Gold Nanorods
Authors: Renero‐Lecuna Carlos , Pulagam Krishna R. , Uribe Kepa B. , Vázquez‐Aristizabal Paula , Gómez‐Vallejo Vanessa , Liz‐Marzán Luis M. , Llop Jordi , Henriksen‐Lacey Malou
Published: September 2024

Photothermal anticancer therapy based on plasmonic nanoparticles is proposed to enhance treatment efficacy while mitigating unintended side effects. However, most studies blindly rely on the accumulation of nanoparticles at the tumor site, which may result in inefficient treatment. In this study, the aim is to evaluate relevant parameters to improve plasmonic photothermal therapy. Gold nanorods (AuNRs) with an optimized aspect ratio and either amino or carboxylic acid surface functionalization are selected as photothermal agents. AuNR biocompatibility and photothermal activity in 2D and 3D human MDA‐MB‐231 triple‐negative breast cancer cell models, evaluating localized hyperthermal cell death upon irradiation with resonant near‐infrared (NIR) light, are analyzed first. To ensure reliable tracking of biodistribution in vivo, AuNRs are labeled with the positron emitter copper‐64 (64Cu), and their distribution in a murine MDA‐MB‐231 tumor model is studied via positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. PET images reveal enhanced tumor accumulation of carboxylic acid‐functionalized AuNRs compared to amino‐functionalized AuNRs post‐intravenous administration. Relatively low NIR laser power densities (0.5 W cm−2) are used for controlled heating – keeping local temperature below 50 °C – upon irradiation of intravenously and intratumorally administered AuNRs. As a result, tumor growth is significantly decelerated, even 9 days after application of photothermal therapy.
Analysis of Unfolded Protein Response Activation in Colon Adenocarcinoma Epithelial Cells: A Proteomic Study
Authors: Vivier Solange , Bray Fabrice , Flament Stéphanie , Guilbert Lucile , Renaud Florence , Rolando Christian , Launay David , Dubucquoi Sylvain , Sobanski Vincent
Published: September 2024

Purpose

High throughput technologies have identified molecular patterns in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells, aiding in modeling responses to anti‐cancer treatments. The different responses observed depend on the type of cancer, the tumour grade and the functional programme of the cancer cells. Recent studies suggest that the unfolded protein response (UPR), autophagy and apoptosis could be involved in treatment resistance mechanisms by interacting with the tumour microenvironment (TME).

Experimental Design

We analysed by LC‐MS/MS the proteome of two representative colon adenocarcinoma epithelial cell lines from different tumour grades (CCL‐233 and CCL‐221) at the basal state or after the UPR induction.

Results

Cell lines expressed a different proteome on about 10% of their total proteins identified, especially on UPR, autophagy and apoptosis pathways proteins at basal state. After UPR induction, the proteome of the cells was modified with a greater adaptive response to cellular stress in CCL‐221 cells where the UPR was strongly activated at the basal state.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

CRC cell lines at different tumour grades expressed different functional programmes at the proteomic level and were characterised by different responses to the UPR induction. This study suggests that baseline cancer cell stress status could have an impact on the efficiency of cancer therapies.
Oroxylin A alleviates myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury by quelling ferroptosis via activating the DUSP10/MAPK‐Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Jin Yifeng , Tan Mingyue , Yin Yunfei , Lin Chen , Zhao Yongjian , Zhang Jun , Jiang Tingbo , Li Hongxia , He Mingqing
Published: September 2024

Reperfusion therapy is the primary treatment strategy for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Paradoxically, it can lead to myocardial damage, namely myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI). This study explored whether oroxylin A (OA) protects the myocardium after MIRI by inhibiting ferroptosis and the underlying mechanism. In vivo, we established an MIRI model to investigate the protective effect of OA. In vitro, H9C2 cells were used to explore the regulation of ferroptosis by OA through immunofluorescence staining, western blotting, assay kits, etc. Additionally, RNA sequencing analysis (RNA‐seq) and network pharmacology analyses were conducted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms. Our results showed that MIRI caused cardiac structural and functional damage in rats. MIRI promoted ferroptosis, which was consistently observed in vitro. However, pretreatment with OA reversed these effects. The mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway participated in the MIRI process, with dual‐specificity phosphatase 10 (DUSP10) found to regulate it. Further confirmation was provided by knocking down DUSP10 using small interfering RNA (siRNA), demonstrating the activation of the DUSP10/MAPK‐Nrf2 pathway by OA to protect H9C2 cells from ferroptosis. Our research has demonstrated the mitigating effect of OA on MIRI and the improvement of myocardial function for the first time. The inhibition of ferroptosis has been identified as one of the mechanisms through which OA exerts its myocardial protective effects. Moreover, we have first unveiled that DUSP10 serves as an upstream target involved in mediating ferroptosis, and the regulation of the DUSP10/MAPK‐Nrf2 pathway by OA is crucial in inhibiting ferroptosis to protect the myocardium.
Exploring methandienone metabolites generated via homogenized camel liver: Advancements for anti‐doping applications through High Resolution‐Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry analysis
Authors: Vazhat Ramees Abdulla , Farook N. A. Mohamed , Nalakath Jahfar , Komathu Praseen Ondern
Published: September 2024

Rationale

Anabolic steroids, also known as anabolic–androgenic steroids (AAS), encompass steroidal androgens such as testosterone, as well as synthetic counterparts with similar structures and effects. The misuse of AAS has increased over the years, leading to ethical and welfare concerns in sports. The World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) have banned AAS in relevant sports. Methandienone is one of the most identified anabolic androgenic steroids in sports drug testing, Therefore, reliable detection methods are crucial for effective doping control and maintaining the integrity of the sports.

Methods

This study explores the use of homogenized camel liver for detecting methandienone metabolites in camels. The biotransformation pathways of methandienone in homogenized camel liver tissues are analyzed using Liquid Chromatography‐High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC‐HRMS) to identify and characterize the phase I and phase II metabolites. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a Thermo‐Hypersil C18 column.

Results

The study has identified 11 methandienone metabolites (M1–M11), this includes 10 phase I and one phase II metabolite. A glucuronic acid conjugate of methandienone was observed in this study, but no sulfonic acid conjugations were found. The metabolites and their possible chemical structures, along with their fragmentation patterns are confirmed using MSMS (MS2) experiments in data‐independent acquisition (DIA) mode.

Conclusions

These findings serve as a vital tool for the rapid detection of methandienone, combating its illicit use in camel racing. Comprehensive screenings covering both the parent drug and its metabolites are recommended to improve detection accuracy and ensure regulatory compliance in sports doping. Future research should explore methandienone's metabolite profile in administered camel samples.