bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the effect of alcohol additives on ammonia decarburization performance and ammonia escape
Authors: Wang Yu Bin , Yu Jie Rui , Zhang Xiao Xian , Chen Hao , Ruan Han Bang , Yang Guo Hua
Published: November 2024

Ammonia carbon capture is characterized by low corrosion, resistance to oxidation and degradation, and low energy consumption for regeneration. However, it also presents challenges such as a slow absorption rate and notable ammonia escape. Current ammonia decarbonization research primarily focuses on the flue gas from power plants, which differs in composition from ship exhaust gas. To address this, we constructed a small carbon absorption test bench and used a mixture of CO2 and N2 as the ship exhaust gas. Ammonia solution and alcohol served as absorbents and additives, respectively, to explore the effects of the additive hydroxyl number, the concentrations of the additive and ammonia solution, and the reaction temperature on carbon loading, absorption rate, and ammonia escape. Results indicated that n‐propanol was most effective in inhibiting ammonia escape, and a low concentration of ammonia solution was more suitable for absorbing CO2. Specifically, when the concentration of ammonia was 4% and the concentration of n‐propanol was 0.2 mol/L, the cumulative ammonia escape was reduced by 34% compared to the scenario without additives. Additionally, the carbon loading and average absorption rate reached 0.49 mol CO2/mol NH3 and 2.33 × 10−3 mol·kg−1·min−1, respectively, representing increases of 34.2 and 60.7%. However, as the reaction temperature increased, the effectiveness of n‐propanol in enhancing ammonia absorption diminished. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tract‐Specific White Matter Hyperintensities Disrupt Brain Networks and Associated With Cognitive Impairment in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Li Xuan , Wang Zhuonan , Zhang Haonan , Zhao Wenpu , Ji Qiuyu , Zhang Xiang , Jia Xiaoyan , Bai Guanghui , Pan Yizhen , Wu Tingting , Yin Bo , Shi Lei , Li Zhiqi , Ding Jierui , Zhang Jie , Salat David H. , Bai Lijun
Published: November 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is considered to initiate cerebrovascular pathology, involving in the development of multiple forms of neurodegeneration. However, it is unknown the relationships between imaging marker of cerebrovascular injury (white matter hyperintensity, WMH), its load on white matter tract and disrupted brain dynamics with cognitive function in mild TBI (mTBI). MRI data and neuropsychological assessments were collected from 85 mTBI patients and 52 healthy controls. Between‐group difference was conducted for the tract‐specific WMH volumes, white matter integrity, and dynamic brain connectivity (i.e., fractional occupancies [%], dwell times [seconds], and state transitions). Regression analysis was used to examine associations between white matter damage, brain dynamics, and cognitive function. Increased WMH volumes induced by mTBI within the thalamic radiation and corpus callosum were highest among all tract fibers, and related with altered fractional anisotropy (FA) within the same tracts. Clustering identified two brain states, segregated state characterized by the sparse inter‐independent component connections, and default mode network (DMN)‐centered integrated state with strongly internetwork connections between DMN and other networks. In mTBI, higher WMH loads contributed to the longer dwell time and larger fractional occupancies in DMN‐centered integrated state. Every 1 mL increase in WMH volume within the left thalamic radiation was associated with a 47% increase fractional occupancies, and contributed to 65.6 s delay in completion of cognitive processing speed test. Our study provided the first evidence for the structural determinants (i.e., small vessel lesions) that mediate the spatiotemporal brain dynamics to cognitive impairments in mTBI.
SkinSage XAI: An explainable deep learning solution for skin lesion diagnosis
Authors: Munjal Geetika , Bhardwaj Paarth , Bhargava Vaibhav , Singh Shivendra , Nagpal Nimish
Published: November 2024

Background

Skin cancer poses a significant global health threat, with early detection being essential for successful treatment. While deep learning algorithms have greatly enhanced the categorization of skin lesions, the black‐box nature of many models limits interpretability, posing challenges for dermatologists.

Methods

To address these limitations, SkinSage XAI utilizes advanced explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques for skin lesion categorization. A data set of around 50,000 images from the Customized HAM10000, selected for diversity, serves as the foundation. The Inception v3 model is used for classification, supported by gradient‐weighted class activation mapping and local interpretable model‐agnostic explanations algorithms, which provide clear visual explanations for model outputs.

Results

SkinSage XAI demonstrated high performance, accurately categorizing seven types of skin lesions—dermatofibroma, benign keratosis, melanocytic nevus, vascular lesion, actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma. It achieved an accuracy of 96%, with precision at 96.42%, recall at 96.28%, F1 score at 96.14%, and an area under the curve of 99.83%.

Conclusions

SkinSage XAI represents a significant advancement in dermatology and artificial intelligence by bridging gaps in accuracy and explainability. The system provides transparent, accurate diagnoses, improving decision‐making for dermatologists and potentially enhancing patient outcomes.
COVID‐19 Vaccine Uptake and Associated Factors Among Persons With Disabilities in Ghana's Ashanti Region
Authors: Seidu Abdul‐Aziz , Ampomah Irene G. , Emeto Theophilus I.
Published: November 2024

Background

Persons with disabilities (PWD) are often marginalized and face barriers to accessing health services. This study aimed to examine the COVID‐19 vaccine uptake and its predictors among PWDs in the Ashanti region of Ghana, where about 17% of the population has some form of disability.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 402 PWDs in two districts of the Ashanti Region of Ghana from December 2021 to March 2022. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (binary logistic regression).

Results

The majority (68.7%) of the respondents had received the COVID‐19 vaccine. The vaccine uptake was significantly higher among PWDs with visual impairments (aOR = 1.81; 95% CI = 1.07–3.09; p = 0.028), older age groups (aOR = 4.95; 95% CI = 1.86–13.21; p = 0.001 for those aged 60 and above), those with junior high school level of education (aOR = 2.21; 95% CI = 1.05–4.64; p = 0.036), and those who were employed (aOR = 2.07; 95% CI = 1.07–3.99; p = 0.031), compared to their respective reference groups.

Conclusion

The study revealed a moderate level of COVID‐19 vaccine uptake among PWDs in the Ashanti region, which may indicate some positive attitudes towards the prevention of the virus. However, there were disparities in the vaccine uptake by disability type, age, education, and employment status, which suggest the need for tailored interventions to address the specific needs and preferences of different subgroups of PWDs. The study also provides a basis for further research on the factors influencing COVID‐19 vaccine acceptance among PWDs in Ghana and other similar settings. To enhance the vaccine coverage and equity among the marginalized groups in the region, more practical and inclusive strategies are needed to overcome the barriers and challenges faced by PWDs in accessing the COVID‐19 vaccine.
Distribution and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles of Pathogens in Patients With Esophageal Cancer From 2013 to 2022: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Meng Hongwei , Wang Yulan , Li Zhifu , Yan Jun , Yu Wenjun , Chen Changqiang
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Pathogenic microbial infections are closely related to the development and prognosis of esophageal cancer. The distribution and resistance of pathogens in different diseases are regional and gradually change over time. This study aimed to determine the distribution and drug resistance of pathogens isolated from patients with esophageal cancer and provide a reference for the rational use of antibiotics.

Methods

The results of strain identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of pathogens in patients with esophageal cancer from January 2013 to December 2022 at our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. SPSS Statistics 26.0 (IBM) and R software 4.3.1 were used for data analysis.

Results

In total, 2322 non‐repetitive pathogens were isolated from 14,037 samples. Of all strains, 1713 (73.77%) were Gram‐negative bacteria, 483 (20.80%) were Gram‐positive bacteria, and 126 (5.43%) were fungi. The top 10 pathogens were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (19.81%), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (12.88%), A. baumannii (9.91%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (9.82%), Staphylococcus aureus (7.54%), Candida albicans (3.92%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (3.19%), Escherichia coli (3.14%), Enterococcus faecalis (2.97%), and Serratia marcescens (2.15%). The isolation rate of S. maltophilia showed an upward trend (p < 0.05). The resistance rates of P. aeruginosa, S. maltophilia, A. baumannii, and Enterobacteriaceae bacteria to some common antibiotics showed a tendency to change (p < 0.05), and 2019 became a turning point to some extent. All common Gram‐positive pathogens were sensitive to vancomycin, except for three Enterococcus spp. isolates that showed intrinsic resistance. The prevalence of MRSA was 65.14% (114/175) in this study. In addition, the resistance rates of MRSA and MSSA to moxifloxacin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, erythromycin, clindamycin, and penicillin were significantly different (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Pathogens are diverse in patients with esophageal cancer, with the most common being P. aeruginosa, followed by S. maltophilia. The pathogens exhibited different patterns of resistance. Antibiotics should be used rationally according to pathogen resistance patterns.
Computational Analysis and Experimental Investigation of the Performance of an Evacuated Tube Solar Air Heater Incorporating Therminol‐55 as a Thermal Energy Storage Medium
Authors: Mathew Adarsh Abi , Mandhare Neeta
Published: November 2024

The evacuated tube solar air heaters (ETSAHs) are gaining popularity today because of their reduced heat loss capability. A performance evaluation of the evacuated tube solar collector (ETSC) using a thermal energy storage (TES) facility was carried out during the study. A new heat pipe (HP) system with a TES unit directly integrated into it was used in the study along with ETSAH. The novel HP system directly stores the thermal energy and is capable of heating the air uniformly from all directions. Therminol‐55 (T‐55) was the sensible heat storage material integrated inside a common condenser HP system. The solar collector's performance was evaluated at air flow rates ranging from 0.003 to 0.02 kg/s. The HP and T‐55 exhibited a maximum temperature of 121°C and 127°C. The highest temperature of the air leaving ETSAH‐TES was 128°C. ETSAH‐TES delivered hot air over 100°C continuously for 7 h. The results depict that even when solar energy was erratic, the HP developed in this research supplied a continuous hot air flow. The average energy and exergy efficiency achieved was 37.87% and 2.8%, respectively. T‐55 can store a maximum of 1920 kJ of energy. With a standard deviation ranging from 0.2% to 1.87%, the ETSC‐TES numerical analysis is in excellent agreement with experimental results.
Decellularized Extracellular Matrix and Polyurethane Vascular Grafts Have Positive Effects on the Inflammatory and Pro‐Thrombotic State of Aged Endothelial Cells
Authors: Specht Sophie J. , Rohringer Sabrina , Hager Pia , Grasl Christian , Schmitt Anna‐Maria , Pach Virginia J. C. , Ehrmann Katharina , Baudis Stefan , Liska Robert , Kiss Herbert , Schneider Karl H. , Podesser Bruno K. , Bergmeister Helga
Published: November 2024

In vitro assessment of small‐diameter synthetic vascular grafts usually uses standard cell culture conditions with early‐passage cells. However, these conduits are mainly implanted in elderly patients and are subject to complex cellular interactions influenced by age and inflammation. Understanding these factors is central to the development of vascular grafts tailored to the specific needs of patients. In this study, the effects of aged endothelial cells subjected to pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory agents and cultivated on a newly developed biodegradable electrospun thermoplastic polyurethane/poly(urethane‐urea) blend (TPU/TPUU), on clinically available expanded polytetrafluorethylene (ePTFE), and on decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) grafts were investigated. Young and aged endothelial cells were exposed to pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory agents and characterized by morphology, migration capacity, and gene expression. In addition, the cells were seeded onto the various graft materials and examined microscopically alongside gene expression analyses. When exposed to pro‐inflammatory cytokines, young and aged cells demonstrated signs of endothelial activation. Cells seeded on ePTFE showed reduced attachment and increased expression of pro‐inflammatory genes compared with the other materials. dECM and TPU/TPUU substrates provided better support for endothelialization with aged cells under inflammatory conditions compared with ePTFE. Moreover, TPU/TPUU showed positive effects on reducing pro‐thrombotic and pro‐inflammatory gene expression in endothelial cells. Our results thus emphasize the importance of developing new synthetic graft materials as an alternative for clinically used ePTFE.
Transcriptomic Profiling Reveals Differences in Slow‐Twitch and Fast‐Twitch Muscles of a Cigarette Smoke‐Exposed Rat Model
Authors: Fung Timothy K. H. , Cheung Kwok Kuen , Wang Xia , Lau Benson W. M. , Ngai Shirley P. C.
Published: November 2024

Background

Cigarette smoking is known to affect muscle function and exercise capacity, including muscle fatigue resistance. Most studies showed diminished cross‐sectional area and fibre type shifting in slow‐twitch muscles such as the soleus, while effects on fast‐twitch muscles were seldom reported and the differential responses between muscle types in response to exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) were largely unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the histomorphological, biochemical and transcriptomic changes induced by CS on both slow‐twitch and fast‐twitch muscles.

Method

Male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: sham air (SA) and CS. The rats were exposed to CS for 8 weeks using an exposure chamber system to mimic smoking conditions. Histomorphological analyses on muscle fibre type and cross‐sectional area were determined in soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL). Transcriptomic profiles were investigated for identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and potential mechanistic pathways involved. Inflammatory responses in terms of the macrophage population and the level of inflammatory cytokines were measured. Markers for muscle‐specific proteolysis were also examined.

Result

Soleus muscle, but not in EDL, exhibited a significant increase in Type IIa fibres (SA: 9.0 ± 3.3%; CS: 19.8 ± 2.4%, p = 0.002) and decrease in Type I fibres (SA: 90.1 ± 3.6%; CS: 77.9 ± 3.3%, p = 0.003) after CS exposure. RNA sequencing revealed 165 identified DEGs in soleus including upregulation of ‘Cd68’, ‘Ccl2’ and ‘Ucp2’ as well as downregulation of ‘Ucp3’, etc. Pathways enrichment analysis revealed that the upregulated pathways in soleus were related to immune system and cellular response, while the downregulated pathways were related to oxidative metabolism. Only 10 DEGs were identified in EDL with less enriched pathways. The soleus also showed elevated pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and the total macrophage marker CD68 was significantly higher in soleus of CS compared to the SA group (CD68+/no. of fibre: SA = 60.3 ± 39.3%; CS = 106.5 ± 27.2%, p = 0.0039), while the two groups in EDL muscle showed no significant difference. The expression of E3 ubiquitin ligase atrogin‐1 associated with muscle degradation pathways was 1.63‐fold higher in the soleus after CS, while no significant differences were observed in the EDL.

Conclusion

The CS‐induced inflammatory responses on soleus muscle are likely mediated via targeting mitochondrial‐related signalling, resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired oxidative capacity. The presumably less active mitochondrial‐related signalling in EDL renders it less susceptible to changes towards CS, accounting for differential impacts between muscle types.
Transpancreatic precut sphincterotomy: Can nonexperts match the outcomes of experts?
Authors: Niiya Fumitaka , Tamai Naoki , Yamawaki Masataka , Noda Jun , Azami Tetsushi , Takano Yuichi , Nishimoto Fumiya , Nagahama Masatsugu
Published: November 2024

Background

Nonexpert endoscopists cannot achieve high‐quality performance during difficult biliary cannulation, representing a significant challenge; precutting is an effective approach for managing these cases. Transpancreatic biliary sphincterotomy (TPBS) is considered more effective than needle‐knife precutting owing to its wire‐guided technique, which may be suitable for nonexpert endoscopists; however, comparisons between nonexpert and expert endoscopists performing TPBS are not well documented.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent TPBS between January 2010 and April 2024 were evaluated. Rates of successful biliary duct cannulation, time to TPBS and bile duct cannulation, and adverse events were compared between both groups. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with successful bile duct cannulation using TBPS.

Results

The study included 140 patients (77 and 63 in the nonexpert and expert groups, respectively). The rates of successful biliary cannulation and overall adverse events (including pancreatitis, 9.1% vs. 9.5%) were 88.3% and 93.7% (p = .38) and 15.6% and 9.5% (p = .32) in the nonexpert and expert groups, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that early TPBS (<22 min) was a significant predictive factor for successful bile duct cannulation.

Conclusions

TBPS may be an effective technique for nonexpert endoscopists; additionally, early TPBS is a significant predictive factor for successful bile duct cannulation.
Prevalence of Human Polyomaviruses in Oral and Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma From Patients Treated at a Cancer Center in Sao Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Gomes Rafael Tomaz , Sobrinho João Simão , Pimentel Dalva Regina Neto , López Rossana Verónica Mendoza , Uno Miyuki , Silva Ana Carolina Prado Ribeiro e , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger , Sichero Laura , Tomimori Jane
Published: November 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) predisposing factors include smoking and alcohol consumption. However, other agents have been investigated, including viruses. We aimed to investigate the presence of DNA of four different types of human polyomavirus (HPyV) in the oral cavity and oropharyngeal SCC samples from an oncology center in Brazil and evaluate the association between HPyV detection and clinical and sociodemographic characteristics. Sixty fresh frozen samples from three different anatomical sites (tongue, floor of the mouth, and oropharynx, 20 samples for each region) were retrospectively selected. Data from medical records such as age, sex, alcohol consumption, smoking, tumor staging and death in less than 5 years of diagnosis were collected. DNA was extracted for the identification of MCPyV, BKPyV, JCPyV, and TSPyV using PCR followed by Sanger sequencing of positive samples. The identity of the generated DNA sequences was confirmed by alignment reference sequences. The investigation of the presence of HPyV DNA showed positivity of 5% for MCPyV (n = 3), 0% for both BKPyV or TSPyV, and 60% for JCPyV (n = 36). No association was found between the positivity of any HPyV in samples with any clinical or sociodemographic characteristics of the patients, nor with a certain anatomical site, except for the association between death in less than 5 years after diagnosis and positivity for JCPyV (p = 0.009). Positivity for HPyV in oral cavity and oropharyngeal SCC was low for MCPyV, high for JCPyV and null for BKPyV and TSPyV. Further studies should be carried out to better understand the high prevalence of JCPyV found in oral cavity and oropharyngeal SCC.
Discovery of a Novel Public Antibody Lineage Correlated With Inactivated SARS‐CoV‐2 Vaccine and the Resultant Neutralization Activity
Authors: Wang Jing , Ni Shuangshuang , Chen QianQian , Wang Chenchen , Liu Hao , Huang Lina , Nasir Muhammad Waqas , Wang Wei , Zhang Xiangyu , Wu Jianjun , Liu Zhirong , Wu Jiabing , Zhang Liangmin , Gao Yong
Published: November 2024

While the SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine offers 70%–95% protection effectiveness against Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), a portion of recipients do not produce adequate protective immune responses, particularly, neutralizing antibodies (nAbs). Previous studies of COVID‐19 patients have identified several public antibody lineages, such as IGHV3‐30, IGHV3‐33, IGHV3‐53, IGHV1‐58, and IGHV1‐24. However, it remains unclear how these public antibodies evolve during vaccination or whether there are any special antibody lineages correlated with SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination. In this study, through a combination of single B cell sequencing and next‐generation sequencing analysis, we systemically studied the dynamic changes of antibody lineages derived from different B cell germlines in their sequence, frequency, and neutralization ability in different vaccinees before and after receiving inactivated SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines. Our findings indicate that the frequency of antibodies derived from the IGHV4‐34 lineage increased in most individuals after vaccination, and the higher frequency of the antibody usually resulted in stronger binding affinity. Additionally, the ratio of IGHV4‐34 derived antibodies, when compared with other public antibodies, more strongly correlated with the neutralization activity of immune sera from vaccinees. Taken together, these results suggest that IGHV4‐34 is a novel vaccine‐elicited public nAb lineage that plays a crucial role in immune response following inactivated COVID‐19 vaccination.
Association Between NK Cell Genetic Variants and the Development of Long COVID Associated‐ and Prepandemic Small Fiber Neuropathy
Authors: Graninger Marianne , Endmayr Verena , Kühner Laura M. , Berger Sarah M. , Rommer Paulus , Klotz Sigrid , Gelpi Ellen , Vietzen Hannes , Höftberger Romana , Puchhammer‐Stöckl Elisabeth
Published: November 2024

Long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID) (LC) symptoms including pain and autonomic dysfunction are in some patients associated with small‐fiber neuropathy (SFN). The pathomechanisms underlying SFN are mostly unclear. Natural killer (NK) cells play a crucial role in immune regulation, viral clearance and nerve metabolism. The aim of this study was to identify associations between development of small‐fiber dysfunction dependent and independent of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection, and human genetic markers associated with specific NK cell functions. The genetic markers assessed in all cohorts included: FCGR3A, IGHG1, HLA‐E, NKG2C, and rs9916629. Genotyping was performed using TaqMan assays, Sanger sequencing and touchdown polymerase chain reaction. We assessed human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) IgG serostatus in all participants, and screened for anti‐neuronal, anti‐glial and anti‐ganglioside autoantibodies in both patient cohorts. We included 50 LC patients with newly‐emerged symptoms of small‐fiber dysfunction after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, 27 prepandemic SFN patients and 320 control persons. Markers associated with low NKG2C response, that is, deletion of the NKG2C gene and lack of prior HCMV infection (IgG seronegativity), occurred significantly more frequently in prepandemic SFN patients compared to LC patients and controls (p = 0.0109 and 0.0005, respectively). In conclusion, markers of impaired NKG2C pathways are associated with prepandemic SFN, but not with Long COVID‐associated small‐fiber dysfunction.
Decreased Water Diffusivity Along the Perivascular Space in Older Adults With Poor Sleep Quality
Authors: Kikuta Junko , Kamagata Koji , Takabayashi Kaito , Hayakawa Yayoi , Taoka Toshiaki , Saito Yuya , Uchida Wataru , Guo Sen , Yoshida Seina , Yamazaki Keigo , Wada Akihiko , Kaga Hideyoshi , Tamura Yoshifumi , Kawamori Ryuzo , Watada Hirotaka , Aoki Shigeki
Published: November 2024

This study included 52 Japanese older adults with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores > 5 and 52 healthy controls (HCs) with PSQI score ≤ 5. Diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) and 3D T1‐weighted imaging were acquired using 3T magnetic resonance imaging. The diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space (DTI‐ALPS) index was calculated using preprocessed DWI. The choroid plexus volume (CPV) was calculated using FreeSurfer 6.0. The mean ALPS index and CPV were compared between the older adults with poor sleep quality (PSQ) and HCs using a general linear model, adjusted for covariates including age, sex, years of education, total intracranial volume, systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin A1c, and white matter lesion volume. We also conducted a partial correlation analysis between the mean ALPS index and CPV, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and PSQI scores, adjusting for all the mentioned covariates. The PSQ group had a significantly lower mean ALPS index than HCs. The mean ALPS index in the PSQ group was negatively correlated with CPV and positively correlated with the MoCA score. Therefore, older adults with PSQ may experience dysfunction in the excretory pathway of the perivascular space around the medullary veins. This impairment may be associated with an increase in CPV and cognitive dysfunction.
A Method for Identifying Warm Fronts in Eurasia
Authors: Qin Yujing , Wang Jiachen , Lu Chuhan , Feng Mengru
Published: November 2024

Warm fronts often trigger significant weather changes, which also play a role in many extreme weather incidents. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the location and characteristics of warm fronts to accurately forecast weather changes. However, warm fronts are more difficult to identify than cold fronts on average, since the gradients can be weaker and shallower. This paper proposes a new objective method for identifying warm fronts in the Eurasia region using ERA‐5 hourly reanalysis data. The method uses the appropriate thermal front parameter and warm advection threshold to identify the potential warm frontal zone, then determines the corresponding warm boundary according to the predominant wind direction within the frontal zone, and finally locates the warm front line along the warm boundary. In various weather processes, the location and shape of the objective warm front correspond well with the distribution of weather systems and meteorological elements, indicating the effectiveness of the method. Meanwhile, the high agreement between objective and manual warm fronts further supports the reliability of the method. Furthermore, this method is applied to the long‐term datasets covering Eurasia, enabling an exploration of the climatological characteristics of warm fronts in the region. The study reveals distinct seasonal patterns in warm front frequency, with the highest frequency occurring during winter and the lowest during summer. Warm fronts are notably active in Europe, the Siberian Plain, the Northeast China Plain extending to the Western Pacific during winter, spring, and autumn. The dataset of warm fronts produced by this method proves valuable for climate change research.
Low intensity, high frequency vibration training to improve musculoskeletal function in a mouse model of volumetric muscle loss
Authors: Hoffman Daniel B. , Schifino Albino G. , Cooley Marion A. , Zhong Roger X. , Heo Junwon , Morris Courtney M. , Campbell Matthew J. , Warren Gordon L. , Greising Sarah M. , Call Jarrod A.
Published: November 2024

This study's objective was to investigate the extent to which two different levels of low‐intensity vibration training (0.6 g or 1.0 g) affected musculoskeletal structure and function after a volumetric muscle loss (VML) injury in male C57BL/6J mice. All mice received a unilateral VML injury to the posterior plantar flexors. Mice were randomized into a control group (no vibration; VML‐noTX), or one of two experimental groups. The two experimental groups received vibration training for 15‐min/day, 5‐days/week for 8 weeks at either 0.6 g (VML‐0.6 g) or 1.0 g (VML‐1.0 g) beginning 3‐days after induction of VML. Muscles were analyzed for contractile and metabolic adaptations. Tibial bone mechanical properties and geometric structure were assessed by a three‐point bending test and microcomputed tomography (µCT). Body mass‐normalized peak isometric‐torque was 18% less in VML‐0.6 g mice compared with VML‐noTx mice (p = 0.030). There were no statistically significant differences of vibration intervention on contractile power or muscle oxygen consumption (p ≥ 0.191). Bone ultimate load, but not stiffness, was ~16% greater in tibias of VML‐1.0 g mice compared with those from VML‐noTx mice (p = 0.048). Cortical bone volume was ~12% greater in tibias of both vibration groups compared with VML‐noTx mice (p = 0.003). Importantly, cross‐section moment of inertia, the primary determinant of bone ultimate load, was 44% larger in tibias of VML‐0.6 g mice compared with VML‐noTx mice (p = 0.006). These changes indicate that following VML, bones are more responsive to the selected vibration training parameters than muscle. Vibration training represents a possible adjuvant intervention to address bone deficits following VML.
Changes in the freshness of freshwater Japanese icefish (Salangichthys microdon) during chilled and super‐chilled storage
Authors: Ando Masashi , Kubo Hayato , Mok Wen Jye , Itoh Ichiro , Imaizumi Kensaku , Tanaka Teruyoshi , Fukuda Takashi
Published: November 2024

Background

The Japanese icefish (Salangichthys microdon) is a valuable food resource in Japan; however, its freshness rapidly diminishes during transport and cold storage. In this study, the freshness change during chilled (5°C) and super‐chilled (−1 and −2°C) of S. microdon samples collected from Kasumigaura lake in October and December was assessed by observing their surface structure and determining their drip loss, K values, and free amino acid content.

Results

The results revealed that more wrinkles formed on the surface of S. microdon samples with increasing storage time. More drip loss occurred in fall than in winter. Higher K values and increased degradation of muscle proteins were observed in winter. Moreover, their free amino acid content increased with storage time at all temperatures.

Conclusion

This study suggested that seasonal differences and storage temperature should be considered in selecting the appropriate fishing, handling, and storage methods to maintain the freshness and quality of S. microdon.
Expression, characterization and application of the deoxynivalenol dehydrogenase from Devosia yakushimensis
Authors: Xu Wei , Yao Jiayi , Shi Yan , Zhang Wenli , Guang Cuie , Mu Wanmeng
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the type‐B trichothecene mycotoxins generally produced by Fusarium fungi and widely pollutes wheat and other grains, causing a great loss in grain yield and significant threat to human health. Enzymatic treatment of DON has displayed a significant role in controlling its levels in recent years.

RESULTS

Here, the DON dehydrogenase from Devosia yakushimensis (DeDDH) is reported. DeDDH exhibited the highest activity in an environment of 35 °C and pH 7.5. In addition, the residual activity of DeDDH was about 40% after pre‐incubation at 80 °C for 0.5 h, suggesting a good thermostability. The presence of Ca2+ significantly boosted the activity of DeDDH, but substituting Ca2+ with other ions could hardly retain the activity. At the optimal conditions, DeDDH efficiently degraded 75% DON (45 μg mL−1) within 4 h. Notably, when three cofactors, PQQ, PMS and DCPIP, were added together, more than 90% DON (45 μg mL−1) was quickly degraded in the first 40 min.

CONCLUSION

The residues Thr485 and Leu521 were found to be significant to the activity of DeDDH by site‐directed mutagenesis, much different from other DON dehydrogenases. Nevertheless, further research on the crystal structure determination of DeDDH, key catalytic residue identification, catalytic activity and thermostability modification still needs to be conducted for application in industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Medicinal potential of adventitious root cultures of Hypericum perforatum: study on antioxidant stress and anti‐melanogenic properties
Authors: Guo Yu‐Qing , Li Xue‐Feng , Zhang Zhao , Li Han‐Xi , Zhang Ke‐Xin , Zhou Zhong‐Yu , Piao Xuan‐Mei , Lian Mei‐Lan
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Adventitious root (AR) culture is an effective method for the production of Hypericum perforatum raw materials. However, the ARs are seldom utilized in practical applications. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of H. perforatum ARs on antioxidative stress and anti‐melanogenesis, aiming for future applications in the development of related products.

RESULTS

In the antioxidative stress experiment, tert‐butyl hydroperoxide‐stimulated HepG2 cells were pre‐treated with 12.5–50 μg mL−1 of AR ethanolic extract (HpE), which significantly increased (P < 0.05) cell viability and reduced reactive oxygen species levels. In alcohol‐stimulated mice, pre‐treatment with HpE (2.5–10 mg kg−1) enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, ethanol dehydrogenase, and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, while reducing the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and triglycerides. In the anti‐melanogenesis experiment, α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone‐stimulated B16‐F10 mouse melanoma cells were pre‐treated with 25–100 μg mL−1 of HpE, resulting in increased tyrosinase activity and melanin content, along with a decrease in the expression levels of microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor, tyrosinase‐related proteins, and tyrosinase.

CONCLUSION

HpE efficiently protects HepG2 cells from oxidative stress and safeguards the liver in mice by mitigating oxidative damage. Additionally, HpE inhibits melanin synthesis in B16‐F10 cells by suppressing tyrosinase activity. These findings suggest that H. perforatum ARs hold potential for use in the development of healthy foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products aimed at antioxidative stress and anti‐melanogenesis. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Definition of Palliative Surgery in Cancer Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Min Jolene Wong Si , Low Xinyi Casuarine , Farber Orly N. , Mack Jennifer W. , Cooper Zara , Lilley Elizabeth J.
Published: November 2024

Palliative surgery is commonly performed in cancer centers worldwide. Yet, there is little agreement on the definition of palliative surgery or its relevant outcomes. This systematic review sought to characterize the definitions of palliative surgery and outcomes for patients with cancer undergoing thoraco‐abdominal procedures. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a search using PubMed, EMBASE and CINAHL databases to identify English‐language publications between August 1, 2005, and December 31, 2023 reporting palliative thoraco‐abdominal procedures for patients with cancer. Definitions of palliative surgery were coded and analyzed using an inductive approach. Outcomes were classified according to an outcome measures hierarchy. Among 92 articles met inclusion criteria and four themes emerged in how palliative surgery was defined throughout the literature: prognosis (incurable cancer diagnosis), purpose (intent to treat symptoms or improve quality of life), procedure type (specific operative interventions), or persistent disease following surgery (incomplete cytoreduction). Survival (90%) and perioperative complications/morbidity (72%) were the most commonly reported outcomes, whereas symptom relief, quality of life, and sustainability of success were infrequently reported. Definitions of palliative surgery vary across studies of patients with cancer undergoing thoracic or abdominal procedures and measured outcomes often do not align with the intent of surgery.
Chondrosarcoma of the Flat Bones: Differential Survival Between High‐Grade Lesions of the Pelvis and Scapula
Authors: Sullivan Mikaela H. , Broida Samuel E. , Cleary Emmett J. , Rose Peter S. , Houdek Matthew T.
Published: November 2024

Background

Flat bone chondrosarcomas have worse outcomes than extremity tumors, but there is no data directly comparing the different flat bones. The aim of this study was to examine differences in recurrence and survival between pelvic and scapular chondrosarcoma.

Methods

One hundred and sixty‐nine (42 scapula, 127 pelvic) patients with chondrosarcoma who underwent surgical resection were reviewed. High‐grade tumors were defined as lesions that were Grade 3 or dedifferentiated on surgical pathology.

Results

Patients with low‐intermediate grade lesions of the scapula were more likely to have positive margins during definitive surgical management (14% vs. 3%, OR 5, 95% CI [1.15, 22.6], p = 0.02), however, this did not translate to differences in recurrence or survival (p > 0.05). The presence of an associated soft tissue mass in low‐intermediate grade lesions was not associated with increased recurrence. Among high‐grade tumors, patients with scapular lesions had worse DSS (HR 2.99, 95% CI [1.05, 8.51], p = 0.04). One‐ and 2‐year DSS for high‐grade pelvic tumors was 75% and 57%, respectively, and 50% and 33% for scapular tumors.

Conclusion

Survival for high‐grade chondrosarcoma of the flat bones is poor, particularly for those of the scapula. Despite a higher rate of positive margins for low‐intermediate grade lesions of the scapula, there was no significant difference in survival compared to low‐intermediate grade lesions of the pelvis. Additional studies with larger sample sizes are needed to further elucidate differences between these locations.
Development of a Novel Nomogram Based on Ultrasonic Radiomics for Predicting Intrauterine Pregnancy After Frozen Embryo Transfer Cycle
Authors: Yang Xin , Zheng Yu , Li Xiaohui , Wu Yuan , Fan Yao , Lv Wenzhi , Zeng Zhen , Xu Xiaoyan
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to develop a nomogram for predicting intrauterine pregnancy after an in vitro frozen embryo transfer cycle using endometrial ultrasound radiomics.

Methods

A total of 211 patients who underwent ultrasound examination on the day of endometrial transformation before the frozen embryo transfer cycle were enrolled. The patients were divided into an intrauterine pregnancy group and a pregnancy failure group based on ultrasound results. Clinical characteristics and radiomic features were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. A nomogram prediction model was established based on radiomic signatures and significant clinical factors. The model's robustness was assessed in training and external validation cohorts.

Results

Nine radiomic features were selected using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and the radiomics score (Rad‐score) was calculated as the sum of each feature multiplied by the nonzero coefficient from LASSO. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve based on the Rad‐score was 0.72, 0.65, and 0.69 in the training, validation, and combined cohorts, respectively. To improve diagnostic efficiency, the Rad‐score was further integrated with clinical factors to form a novel predictive nomogram. The results indicated that the AUC increased to 0.81, 0.67, and 0.77 in the training, validation, and combined cohorts, respectively. Decision curve analysis showed that the radiomics nomogram was clinically useful.

Conclusion

The radiomics and clinical predictive nomogram can effectively predict intrauterine pregnancy after in vitro frozen embryo transfer and can be further applied in clinical strategy.
Digging for Literature on Tailoring Cultural Offers With and for Older People From Ethnic Minority Groups: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tierney Stephanie , Gorenberg Jordan , Santillo Marta , Westlake Debra , Wong Geoffrey , Husk Kerryn , Vougioukalou Sofia , Baxter Ruthanne , Dawson Shoba , Roberts Nia , Potter Caroline , Warburton Harriet , McDougall Beth , Latchem Johannah , Mahtani Kamal R
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Social prescribing addresses non‐medical issues (e.g., loneliness, financial worries, housing problems) affecting physical and/or mental health. It involves connecting people to external support or services, including ‘cultural offers’–events, groups and activities run within or by cultural organisations. Such offers need to be acceptable and accessible to diverse populations if forming part of a social prescription.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted to identify what existing literature, conducted in the United Kingdom, tells us about tailoring cultural offers for older people (aged 60+ years) from ethnic minority groups. Relevant literature was searched for on electronic databases, through Google, via a questionnaire to cultural organisations and by contacting the study's advisory group.

Results

Screening of 906 references–59 of which were read as full documents–resulted in six sources being included in the review. Some cultural activities described within them were run in traditional cultural spaces (e.g., museums, art galleries). Others were held in community centres. Data suggested that attending with others could reduce concerns about belonging. Barriers to engagement included low energy, language, poor confidence, accessing transport and unfamiliarity with a setting and/or activities. Provision of familiar food could help make people feel welcomed.

Conclusions

Reviewed papers showed that consulting with target groups is important to ensure that activities are inclusive and sympathetically delivered. The review also highlighted a paucity of published research on the topic; this means that cultural providers have little evidence to draw on when developing cultural offers for older people from ethnic minority groups.
Histologic Effects of Fractional Lasers and Energy‐Based Devices on Intradermally Injected Hyaluronic Acid Filler for Improving Skin Smoothness
Authors: Ge Shealinna , Chung Hye Jin , Weiss Robert A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Prior studies have shown that energy‐based devices (EBDs) over pre‐injected hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers do not significantly affect clinical outcomes. However, the impact of EBDs over newly FDA‐approved HA filler for improving skin smoothness is still undetermined.

Objective

To evaluate the immediate histologic changes after various popular EBDs are performed over pre‐injected, newly FDA‐approved intradermal HA filler.

Materials and Methods

Abdominoplasty skin was injected with HA superficially. Zone 1 was used as untreated control, while the other zones treated with the 755‐nm picosecond laser with diffractive lens array, 1064‐nm picosecond and 1064‐nm Q‐switched lasers, radiofrequency with insulated microneedles, volumetric directional thermal impact ultrasound (VDTI), and thermomechanical fractional injury (TMFI) devices.

Results

Histology shows HA in the superficial to mid dermis. Treatment with fractional Q‐switched and picosecond lasers showed expected laser‐induced optical breakdown in the epidermis and dermis. RF microneedling, VDTI, and TMFI devices caused thermal damage of collagen bundles with dermal dehydration.

Conclusion

No immediate morphological changes to HA were noted following device treatment. However, the effect of heat‐generating devices on the molecular integrity of HA fillers, which are composed of HA and water, remains uncertain.
Adaptable Intelligent Filters of Dual Thermo‐ and pH‐ Responsive Filter Material
Authors: Wu Jingwei , Pourdeyhimi Behnam , Yarin Alexander L.
Published: November 2024

In this study, the development of novel pH‐responsive and dual thermo‐ and pH‐responsive filter materials is described. The dual‐responsive system combines poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) for temperature sensitivity and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) for pH responsiveness, which offers dynamic filtration capabilities tailored to environmental changes. PNIPAM is a thermo‐responsive polymer that undergoes significant conformational changes in response to temperature variations. The present work integrates PNIPAM's temperature sensitivity with the pH‐responsive properties of PAA, a versatile polymer widely recognized for its ability to change its conformation in response to pH variations. The dual materials developed here undergo conformational changes at specific temperatures and pH levels, modifying their hydrophilicity, pore size, and permeability. In particular, when exposed to higher temperatures, PNIPAM transitions from a hydrated, expanded state to a dehydrated, collapsed state, directly influencing the flow rate and selectivity of the filter medium that comprises it. On the other hand, PAA responds to pH changes by ionizing or deprotonating, causing swelling or shrinkage that alters the filtration performance of the media with embedded PAA. This dual responsiveness allows for the development of advanced filtration systems that can adapt to varying environmental conditions, optimize the capture of specific contaminants, and reduce fouling.
The conversion of electroanatomic maps for compatibility with treatment planning systems in cardiac radioablation target volume definition
Authors: Konermann Sarah L. , Gerard Ian J. , Bernier Martin L. , Hijal Tarek , Stroian Gabriela , Kopek Neil , Alfieri Joanne , El‐Hamedi Lynn , Pater Piotr
Published: November 2024

Background

Cardiac radioablation (CRA) is a new and promising treatment modality for patients with ventricular tachycardia refractory to standard‐of‐care treatment. Electroanatomic maps are used to define radiation target volumes; however, there is currently no native method to import electroanatomic maps into the treatment planning system (TPS).

Purpose

To develop Edico, a semi‐automated tool to enable electroanatomic map import into a TPS, by converting electroanatomic maps to a Digital Imaging and COmmunications in Medicine (DICOM) standard. The overall aim is to facilitate target volume delineation and improve workflow efficiency in treating patients.

Methods

Edico imports voltage and spatial data from electroanatomic maps and sorts these into voxels to be exported in a DICOM format, with each voxel containing the average voltage value of the data that falls within it. Three different rectangular electroanatomic maps were created and processed using Edico to ensure that expected features are maintained through processing. A sensitivity analysis of voxel size was completed using 19 different electroanatomic maps processed at five different sets of voxel dimensions, for a total of 95 resulting voxelized datasets. The coefficient of variation in each populated voxel in the datasets was analyzed to determine which voxel sizes are necessary to ensure that data loss is kept to a minimum throughout processing, despite averaging. Five electroanatomic maps were used to re‐contour clinical target volumes and planning target volumes for previously‐treated patients with their electroanatomic maps now directly registered to their planning computed tomography (CT) scans.

Results

All three rectangular test electroanatomic maps were processed as expected. All tested voxel sizes resulted in low coefficients of variation overall, with the exception of the largest voxel size of 1.8 × 1.8 × 8 mm. When using Edico, a user should choose voxel dimensions similar to or smaller than those of a planning CT. Of five pairs of clinical and planning target volumes from previously treated patients, adjustments were made to four (80%), retrospectively, using the electroanatomic maps generated using Edico, registered to the patients’ planning CTs.

Conclusions

Edico provides a reliable solution for electroanatomic map import into a TPS and facilitates clinical and planning target volume identification in CRA.