bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling urban landscapes: Alisa Oleva’s performances during the pandemic
Authors: Tartaglia Raffaella
Published: July 2024

This text explores the evolving landscape of performance art in the face of pandemic restrictions, shedding light on the repercussions of audience deprivation and the subsequent exploration of digital platforms as a means of artistic expression. Focusing on some artistic performances of Alisa Oleva, the text investigates how her exploration of touching and walking as a medium influences the understanding of urban landscapes. By using the city as her studio and manipulating everyday life, Oleva uncovers the hidden stories and meanings embedded within inside and outside spaces, to examine questions related to women’s histories, traces, and surfaces. In particular, we focus on Walking Home (2020), a performance that, in addition to providing an interesting example of walking as an aesthetic practice, raises political and activist questions, such as how the pandemic-induced confinement masks deeper issues, namely the safety of the domestic environment for those who identify themself as women. Through various performances, we delve into the theme of seeing and touching, emphasising the significance of sensory perception as embodied human beings. Moreover, the text highlights how our passages and connections with different environments contribute to shaping the very meaning of the places we encounter in the world. In addition, the text acknowledges the transformative power of personal experiences in crafting the narrative of our collective story.
Improved wet skid resistance of NR/SBR composites induced by irradiation vulcanised styrene-butadiene rubber particles
Authors: Luan Zhennan , Xiao Xiao , Zhu Fuhao , Wang Qingguo
Published: July 2024

Improving the wet skid resistance of tire tread is very important for the safety of vehicle driving. Using a novel ultrafine full-vulcanised powdered styrene-butadiene rubber (UFPSBR), this work prepared an advanced UFPSBR/nature rubber (NR)/styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) composites used for the tire tread. On one hand, the UFPSBR improves the loss factor (tanδ) values of the UFPSBR/NR/SBR composites in temperature range from 0 °C to 10 °C, indicating that the UFPSBR modified tire tread has better wet skid resistance. On the other hand, the UFPSBR increases the surface roughness and complex modulus of the UFPSBR/NR/SBR composites while decreasing the water contact angle of the UFPSBR/NR/SBR composites, which is conducive to increasing the wet skid resistance of tire tread by puncturing the water film or leading a thinner water film between tire tread surface and road surface. Above researches are more comprehensive and benefit for studying the advanced green tire with high wet skid resistance.
Assessment of thermal fatigue damage in square tubes using second harmonic generation of longitudinal waves
Authors: Gao Min , Ng Ching-Tai , Meng Lingkai , Hu Xianwen , Cao Yuqiao , Kotousov Andrei
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates nonlinear guided wave propagation in square tubes with material nonlinearity for the first time. The dispersion characteristics of guided waves in a square aluminum tube are first analyzed and presented. A pair of longitudinal wave modes is selected as fundamental waves and second harmonics. The selected mode pair is identified to meet the internal resonance condition. Then, a three-dimensional finite element model is developed to simulate the second harmonic generation and propagation in the square tube. When the fundamental waves propagate in the square tube, the second harmonics are generated due to the self-interaction of the fundamental waves and inherent material nonlinearity. The generated second harmonics are manifested to be cumulative with the almost linearly increased nonlinear acoustic parameter versus propagation distance. Subsequently, the experiment is carried out to confirm the simulated results and they are considerably consistent. Finally, the generated second harmonics are employed to evaluate different levels of thermal fatigue damage, which is introduced into the square tube by applying increasing thermal cycles. The nonlinear acoustic parameter increases with the growing thermal cycles, which indicates the induced second harmonics are sensitive to thermal fatigue damage. The findings of this study provide insights into practical applications for the detection and evaluation of early-stage damage in square tubes using second harmonic generation of longitudinal waves.
Segment anything model-based crack segmentation using low-rank adaption fine-tuning
Authors: Guo Yapeng , Xu Yang , Cui Hongtao , Dang Minghao , Li Shunlong
Published: July 2024

High-precision crack segmentation is crucial for analyzing and maintaining the apparent state of structures. The introduction of large vision models, such as the segment anything model (SAM), has brought significant advancements in object segmentation due to their remarkable generalization capabilities. However, SAM cannot be directly used for the purpose of automatic crack segmentation. This study introduces a novel approach that fine-tunes SAM specifically for crack segmentation by incorporating low-rank adaptation (LoRA). This method involves adding a dedicated crack segmentation head to SAM, enabling automatic crack segmentation. Additionally, the application of LoRA technology facilitates the readjustment of SAM’s features without incurring the substantial costs typically associated with fine-tuning entire networks. A comparative analysis with current leading crack segmentation models demonstrated a significant increase in accuracy across eight different crack datasets. This study offers guidelines for the application of large vision models for crack identification.
Nanomaterials for Ultrasound Imaging- Guided Sonodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhang Zhiyang , Yuan Yinuo , Xue Yanzhang , Zhang Wenjing , Sun Xiao , Xu Xueli , Liu Cun
Published: July 2024

Ultrasound examination is becoming the most popular medical imaging modality because of its low cost and high safety profile. Ultrasound contrast agents enhance the scattering of sound waves, which can improve the clarity and resolution of images. Nanoparticle Ultrasound contrast agents have the characteristics of a large specific surface area and a modifiable surface, which can increase drug loading capacity, prolong circulation time, and enable drug enrichment in specific organs or tissues. This leads to improved therapeutic effects and reducing toxic and side effects. Compared with traditional ultrasound contrast agents, Nano-ultrasound contrast agents overcome the limitation of imaging solely within blood vessels and facilitate imaging within tumor tissues, thereby extending the duration of enhanced imaging. Sonodynamic therapy is an emerging treatment method that has been developed rapidly in recent years, which has the advantages of noninvasive, high spatial and temporal resolution, and low toxicity and side effects. Sonodynamic therapy utilizes a sonosensitizer that, when excited by ultrasound at the tumor site, produces toxic reactive oxygen species, inducing apoptosis or necrosis in tumor cells. Ultrasound-guided sonodynamic therapy allows for real-time observation of lesions, is convenient and flexible, and is free of radiation exposure. With the use of nanomaterials as carriers, ultrasound-guided sonodynamic therapy has made significant strides. This study categorizes and summarizes the current research on acoustic sensitizer carrier materials, including carbon-based, silicon-based, peptide-based, iron-based, metal-organic frameworks, polymers, and liposomes. It concludes by highlighting the current challenges in the integration of ultrasound imaging with sonodynamic therapy and suggests future directions for clinical application development.
When Charismatic Leadership Loses its Luster: Examining the Interactive Effect of Charismatic Leadership and Abusive Supervision on Follower Prosocial Motivation and Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Christensen-Salem Amanda , Hartnell Chad A. , Walumbwa Fred O. , Chiang Flora F. T. , Birtch Thomas
Published: July 2024

We develop a multilevel framework that examines the simultaneous co-occurrence of charismatic leadership and abusive supervision and how they jointly diminish followers’ prosocial motivation. Furthermore, we tested a mediated moderation model to examine whether followers’ prosocial motivation mediates the link between charismatic leadership and followers’ citizenship behavior under high and low levels of abusive supervision. Results from a field study based upon 296 employees and 44 supervisors in 44 teams across three organizations provided support for the predicted relationships. Charismatic leadership positively influenced followers’ prosocial motivation when abusive supervision was low but not high. Furthermore, followers’ prosocial motivation mediated the link between charismatic leadership and followers’ organizational citizenship behavior when abusive supervision was low but not high. We discuss theoretical implications for abusive supervision's neutralizing effect, identify avenues to advance charismatic leadership and prosocial motivation research, and provide recommendations for practitioners to cultivate an environment that nurtures employees’ prosocial motivation.
Measuring thoracic excursion using a wearable patch antenna
Authors: Arango Toro Julian , Yepes Zuluaga Sara María María , Granada Willer Ferney Montes
Published: July 2024

A patient’s respiratory rate can be measured based on the thoracic excursion during inhalation and exhalation. For this it was implemented a wearable antenna–sensor made of cotton/polyester (polycot) fabric and flexible copper was designed in electromagnetic field simulation software CST Studio Suite to operate at an industrial, scientific, and medical frequency band (ISM) of 2.4 GHz. The measurement protocol used involved conducting a thoracic anamnesis in order to manually measure the expansion of the thoracic cage during the patient’s inhalation and exhalation, as a way to validate the measurements. A wearable patch antenna was used as the thoracic deformation sensor, which allowed for anatomical adjustment to the curvature of the patients’ chests. According to the findings, the variation in the resonant frequency of the antenna–sensor was linear and decreasing in the range of 2.15–2.6 GHz (bandwidth of 450 MHz), allowing for the detection of linear changes in thoracic excursion, with a sensitivity inversely proportional to the applied effort of −2.56 MHz/µ[Formula: see text]. These results were obtained by placing the sensor in the lateral region of the thorax for patients with obesity and respiratory pathologies. The satisfactory results demonstrate a novel instrumental technique for measuring thoracic deformation using a wearable patch antenna as a physiological sensor. This is the initial step toward the automation of the proposed measurement protocol in smart digital devices for respiratory rate monitoring in biomedical applications.
Kanoon’s Sarange: Goodrich and the Non-Minor Jurisprudences of Law and Love
Authors: Ballakrishnen Swethaa S.
Published: July 2024

This article uses three main global visual sites—the popular Korean drama Hometown Cha Cha Cha (2021), the Hindi-English movie, The Lunchbox (2013), and the British-American television series Ted Lasso (2020–2023) to engage with two main strains of Peter Goodrich’s scholarship: the interconnectedness between law, justice, and love; and the role of minor jurisprudences. Heeding Goodrich’s advice to consider media as an important node for legal analysis, it traces the course of aromantic amity and asexual kinship across these sites to deliberate new ways of considering the law’s liberal commitments to conjugality and dyadic partnership. By focusing on popular scripts seemingly unrelated to the law, I seek to both contemplate on new pulses in contemporary cultures and the tools they might offer to consider the literature on law and love. Kanoon is the word in Hindi for law and Sarange is the word in Korean for love. Translated loosely—and, intentionally with flaws and gaps in logic—as Law’s Love. To the extent we can reparatively imagine law from the perspective of these cultural prompts, I suggest that they offer new alterities from heteropatriarchy and utopic possibilities beyond the liberal queer rights regime.
Linking pre-performance stress appraisals with emotions in sport
Authors: Stanger Nicholas , Kaiseler Mariana , Williams Toni L.
Published: July 2024

Although research has investigated how appraisals are linked with categories of emotions (e.g. pleasant and unpleasant emotions) in sport, research into how stress appraisal components are associated with specific discrete emotions commonly experienced in sport has received scant attention. This study examined how pre-performance stress appraisals were related to pre-performance anger, anxiety, dejection, excitement, and happiness. Athletes ( N = 458) completed measures of pre-performance stress appraisals and emotions in relation to their latest competitive performance. Path analyses revealed challenge appraisal was positively linked to pleasant emotions, and threat appraisal with unpleasant emotions. Specific emotions also possessed discrete links with appraisal components. For example, uncontrollable-by-anyone appraisal was positively linked with anger and dejection but inversely linked with anxiety. Moreover, controllable-by-others appraisal was positively associated, and controllable-by-self appraisal was negatively associated, with anxiety. Excitement and happiness were similarly related with appraisal components. However, controllable-by-self appraisal was positively and more strongly associated with excitement, whereas controllable-by-others appraisal was also positively and directly linked with happiness. These findings highlight how stress appraisals are linked with common emotions in sport and offer applied implications for coaches, sport psychologists and athletes regarding ways that could help regulate pre-performance emotions in sport.
Blistering skin conditions
Authors: Mohammed Khalid
Published: July 2024

Blistering skin conditions encompass a broad spectrum of disorders, ranging from life-threatening emergencies requiring immediate attention to chronic conditions needing secondary care referral. There are also more simple conditions that can be managed with self-care or over-the-counter medication.
Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial Activity, and Molecular Docking of the Main Phytoconstituents from Three Rarely Investigated Marine Macroalgae
Authors: Osman Nehal A.H.K , Nafie Mohamed S. , Kang Hee-Kyoung , Hyun Jin Won , Koh Young-Sang
Published: July 2024

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical and mineral compositions, antimicrobial activities, and molecular docking of 3 abundant and understudied seaweeds ( Cystoseira trinodis, Padina boryana, and Turbinaria triquetra). Methods: Extraction was performed using absolute ethanol, and chemical and mineral compositions were determined using the standard methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Total phenolics and flavonoids were assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. Chemical composition was screened using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and antimicrobial activity was evaluated using a disc diffusion assay. In addition, molecular docking analysis of the main compounds was performed. Results: The samples had high ash, carbohydrate, and fiber contents. The results showed high amount of Na, K, Mg, Ca, and Fe, with the highest values for Ca. Trace elements such as Cu, Mn, and Zn were found in low amounts in the studied species. The content of total phenolics ranged from 15.54 ± 0.1 to 39.5 ± 0.2 mg gallic acid equivalent/g. For flavonoid, it ranged from 3.4 ± 0.3 to 1.5 ± 0.2 mg rutin/g. GC-MS revealed 9 major compounds, mainly fatty acids, which have been reported to have antimicrobial activity. The antimicrobial results indicated a higher impact of the extracts against bacteria ( Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Proteus vulgaris) than against fungi ( Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus), and a stronger dose-dependent effect against gram-positive ( B. subtilis and S. aureus) bacteria than against gram-negative bacteria ( E. coli and P. vulgaris). Molecular docking identified 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester as the highest binding compound for penicillin-binding protein 6, suggesting its potential antimicrobial activity. Conclusion: These findings suggest that these seaweed species could serve as promising sources of functional foods with antimicrobial properties, with potential applications in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical fields.
Long-term outcomes and associated factors of Crohn’s disease patients achieving transmural healing based on magnetic resonance enterography: a Chinese retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lu Yaming , Xiong Shanshan , Zhang Mengchen , Zu Xiaoman , Li Jinbin , Mao Ren , Zeng Zhirong , Li Xuehua , Chen Minhu , He Yao
Published: July 2024

Background:

Transmural healing (TH) has emerged as a potential treatment goal for Crohn’s disease (CD). However, further research is needed to confirm its benefits and risk factors associated with TH remain unclear.

Objectives:

We aimed to assess the value of TH based on magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) in Chinese CD patients regarding the long-term outcomes and its associated factors.

Design:

Retrospective, observational cohort study.

Methods:

Patients with CD diagnosed by colonoscopy and MRE examination between 2015 and 2022 were included. All patients were evaluated with endoscopy together with MRE within 6–12 months after baseline and followed up for at least 6 months after evaluation. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of major outcomes during the follow-up, including drug escalation, hospitalization, and surgery. The cumulative probabilities of major outcomes were calculated using Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Logistic regression analyses were used to predict TH within 6–12 months after baseline.

Results:

A total of 175 patients were included in the study. Of these, 69 (39.4%) patients achieved mucosal healing (MH), but only 34 (19.4%) of them achieved TH. The median follow-up duration was 17.4 months (interquartile range, 11.6–25.5), and major outcomes occurred in 58.3% of patients. A lower occurrence rate of major outcomes was noted in patients who achieved TH than in those who achieved MH only ( p = 0.012). The baseline lymphocyte/C-reactive protein ratio (LCR) [odds ratio (OR), 1.60; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02–2.50; p = 0.039] and bowel wall thickness (BWT) (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.59–0.90; p = 0.003) were independent predictors associated with TH. According to multivariate Cox regression analysis, low LCR [hazard ratio (HR), 2.34; 95% CI, 1.51–3.64; p < 0.001], and no healing (HR, 5.45; 95% CI, 2.28–13.00; p < 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of major outcomes.

Conclusion:

Patients with CD who achieved TH showed improved prognosis compared to those who achieved MH only. Baseline LCR and BWT might predict TH.
Community and industry: The development of online literature in the PRC
Authors: Hockx Michel
Published: July 2024

This article provides a brief overview of the history of online literature in the PRC. The focus is on the development of online literature into a successful commercial industry, serving a large and highly interactive community. The discussion looks at how this community and its practices pose challenges to conventional practices of preservation and canonization of literary texts, as well as how PRC cultural authorities are attempting to steer this community toward adherence of ideological guidelines for literary production.
Retrospective evaluation of the short-term effectiveness of non-enzymatically isolated stromal vascular fraction cells in patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Safarli Aytan , Kirnaz Berkay , Kumcuoglu Derin , Mahmudov Vusal , Karimov Ziya , Berdeli Afig
Published: July 2024

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is the most common degenerative joint disease. Adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction cell therapy slows the progression of knee osteoarthritis and prevents hyaline cartilage degeneration without serious side effects. This study aims to present retrospectively the effectiveness of stromal vascular fraction cells isolated from adipose tissue by the non-enzymatic method applied to 55 osteoarthritis patients of different age groups and Kellgren-Lawrence grades on the recovery of the disease.

Material and Methods

Fifty-five patients with knee osteoarthritis, treated with stromal vascular fraction cells at the International Medical Centre (Azerbaijan) between 2020 and 2021, were included in the study to be evaluated retrospectively. Patients aged 32–67 years, Grades I–IV according to Kellgren-Lawrence classification, were included in this study. Pain and functional limitations were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaires before treatment, at the 5th month, and 12th month after stromal vascular fraction injection.

Results

At the fifth and 12th months post-treatment, it was observed that the WOMAC scores were significantly improved compared with pre-treatment scores. It was also observed that stromal vascular fraction therapy was effective for Kellgren-Lawrence Grades I and II at 12 months. The most significant decrease in the WOMAC score after stromal vascular fraction treatment was observed in patients aged 45–60 years, and it was also found that there was no meaningful relationship between stromal vascular fraction efficiency and gender.

Conclusion

According to our results, non-enzymatically stromal vascular fraction treatment is more effective for longer in osteoarthritis patients with early age and low Kellgren-Lawrence grades (I and II). Moreover, our finding is that the stromal vascular fraction cells could be used safely in osteoarthritis treatments and significantly benefit patients’ quality of life.
Two Independent Response Mechanisms to Auditory Stimuli Measured with Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Sleeping Infants
Authors: Lee Onn Wah , Mao Darren , Wunderlich Julia , Balasubramanian Gautam , Haneman Mica , Korneev Mikhail , McKay Colette M.
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the morphology of the functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) response to speech sounds measured from 16 sleeping infants and how it changes with repeated stimulus presentation. We observed a positive peak followed by a wide negative trough, with the latter being most evident in early epochs. We argue that the overall response morphology captures the effects of two simultaneous, but independent, response mechanisms that are both activated at the stimulus onset: one being the obligatory response to a sound stimulus by the auditory system, and the other being a neural suppression effect induced by the arousal system. Because the two effects behave differently with repeated epochs, it is possible to mathematically separate them and use fNIRS to study factors that affect the development and activation of the arousal system in infants. The results also imply that standard fNIRS analysis techniques need to be adjusted to take into account the possibilities of multiple simultaneous brain systems being activated and that the response to a stimulus is not necessarily stationary.
Speech-Identification During Standing as a Multitasking Challenge for Young, Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Van Wilderode Mira , Van Humbeeck Nathan , Krampe Ralf , van Wieringen Astrid
Published: July 2024

While listening, we commonly participate in simultaneous activities. For instance, at receptions people often stand while engaging in conversation. It is known that listening and postural control are associated with each other. Previous studies focused on the interplay of listening and postural control when the speech identification task had rather high cognitive control demands. This study aimed to determine whether listening and postural control interact when the speech identification task requires minimal cognitive control, i.e., when words are presented without background noise, or a large memory load. This study included 22 young adults, 27 middle-aged adults, and 21 older adults. Participants performed a speech identification task (auditory single task), a postural control task (posture single task) and combined postural control and speech identification tasks (dual task) to assess the effects of multitasking. The difficulty levels of the listening and postural control tasks were manipulated by altering the level of the words (25 or 30 dB SPL) and the mobility of the platform (stable or moving). The sound level was increased for adults with a hearing impairment. In the dual-task, listening performance decreased, especially for middle-aged and older adults, while postural control improved. These results suggest that even when cognitive control demands for listening are minimal, interaction with postural control occurs. Correlational analysis revealed that hearing loss was a better predictor than age of speech identification and postural control.
Exploring E-Government Development Index as an Indicator of Sustainability in the Gulf Region
Authors: Younus Muhammad , Purnomo Eko Priyo , Nurmandi Achmad , Hung Chin-Fu , Anand Prathivadi , Khairunnisa Tiara
Published: July 2024

The primary aim of this article is to assess the E-Government Development Index (EGDI) of Arab Gulf countries, and it elucidates the key obstacles impeding the progress of the Gulf countries in the e-government sector. The EGDI data for the Gulf countries have been obtained from the United Nations, and an online business intelligence tool has been utilized for visualization purposes to facilitate comprehension. The levels of indicators within EGDI have been examined upon effectively retrieving data and presenting it appropriately. The article discusses the key areas of improvement that require governments’ attention in the Gulf countries to enhance their EGDI score. This can be leveraged to advance to global standards, offering their citizens optimal governance. Countries in the Gulf region must recognize that the e-government effort encompasses more than simply the transformation of governance and the provision of high-quality services. Instead, it entails aligning with global trends and effectively competing with other nations regarding developmental advancements. Countries must adhere to prevailing e-government trends to ensure alignment with global standards and expedite national advancement.
Book review: James Uden, ed. 2022. Worlds of Knowledge in Women’s Travel Writing
Authors: Gupta Sanjukta Das
Published: July 2024

James Uden, ed. 2022. Worlds of Knowledge in Women’s Travel Writing. Cambridge, Massachusetts and London, England: Harvard University Press. viii + 177 pp. Figures. £15.95 (paperback—ISBN: 9780674260566).
Self-Care Education on the Pain, Quality of Life, and Consequences of Disease in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Jokar Zeinab , Hosseinabadi Zahra , Rustaee Sanaz , Bijani Mostafa
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is one of the most common and prevalent debilitating chronic diseases across the world with various adverse effects such as pain and movement limitations which impact the health status and quality of life of the patients in the long run.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effects of self-care education on pain, quality of life, and consequences of disease in patients with KOA in Southern Iran.

Methods

This is a randomized controlled clinical trial using a pretest–posttest design. Eighty patients with KOA were enrolled in this study and randomly allocated to a control and an intervention group. The data collection instruments included VAS: Visual Analog Scale, the SF-36 quality of life scale, and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. The collected data were analyzed through SPSS v. 22, using descriptive tests, paired t-tests, independent t-tests, Chi-square, and ANOVA. A P level of <.05 was considered as the significant level.

Results

Before the self-care educational intervention, no statistically significant difference was found between the control and intervention groups in pain intensity, quality of life, and consequences of osteoarthritis. After the self-care educational intervention, the findings revealed a significant difference between the intervention group's mean ± standard deviation for pain intensity (41.25 ± 21.74), quality of life (49.87 ± 14.74), and consequences of KOA (39.06 ± 12.15), respectively ( P < .05). However, in the control group, there was no significant difference.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, the positive effect of self-care education on patients with osteoarthritis was shown as to their pain intensity, quality of their lives, and reduction of the disease consequences. Thus, healthcare managers are recommended to apply this type of intervention for patients with osteoarthritis.
Geophysical signatures on gold and base metal mineralisation in the Ibaga area, northeast of Iramba, central Tanzania
Authors: Laizer Peter Lucas , Mulibo Gabriel Daudi
Published: July 2024

This study provides an in-depth geophysical interpretation of the gold and base metal mineralisation of the Ibaga area related to hydrothermal alteration using high-resolution aero-geophysical and induced polarisation ground survey datasets. Despite its potential for gold and base metal and the available artisanal mines, the Ibaga area has remained poorly understood on geophysical signatures of ore deposits and other subsurface geological structures controlling the mineralisation. The magnetic results on the major structures show high magnetic signatures, supported by gravity, radiometric signatures and petrophysical analysis. The potential mineralised structures are interpreted as dyke for gold, and contacts for copper and the depth to the basement varies from 0.113 to 1.556 km. The gravity anomaly shows high values on the gold mineralisation similar to high-density values of dolerite dykes and gabbro and low to medium radiometric concentrations associated with mineralised zones. The magnetic signatures on the copper deposits coincide with the relative positive gravity anomaly of high-density intrusive bodies and relatively moderate conductive bodies with elevated potassium (K) alteration. The copper deposit also has intermediate K and low to intermediate K/Th and K/U ratios caused by K alteration within the geological structures. The good spatial correlation of the hydrothermally altered zones, igneous intrusions and geological structures implies that the geological features associated with gold and copper mineralisation lie within the regions of high-density intrusive bodies and geological structures (faults, fractures and dykes). These features are also associated with relatively moderate conductive bodies, low to intermediate radiometric concentrations and low to moderate magnetic signatures. Thus, the study reveals that the delineated geophysical signatures on gold and base metal mineralisation are associated with quartz–sericite–muscovite ± chlorite hydrothermally altered areas, deformed structures, and intrusive bodies, which act as pathways for the migration and accumulation of hydrothermally altered fluids.
The role of the TSC Alliance in advancing therapy development: a patient organization perspective
Authors: Roberds Steven L. , Fuchs Zoë , Cassidy Elizabeth M. , Metzger Samantha , Abi Ayat , Pounders Ashley J. , Aguiar Dean J.
Published: July 2024

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disease leading to malformations, or tubers, in the cerebral cortex and growth of tumors, most frequently in the brain, heart, kidneys, skin, and lungs. Changes in the brain caused by TSC usually have the biggest negative impact on quality of life. Approximately 85% of individuals with TSC have epilepsy, and TSC-associated neuropsychiatric disorders (TAND) affect nearly all individuals with TSC in some way. TSC Alliance’s research strategy is built upon both funding and catalyzing research. Through grants, the organization provides funding directly to researchers through a competitive application process. The organization has also built a set of resources available to researchers worldwide, including a Natural History Database, Biosample Repository, and Preclinical Consortium. These resources catalyze research because they are available to qualified academic or industry researchers around the world, enabling an almost unlimited number of scientists to access data and resources to enable and accelerate research on TSC. This research strategy continues to be shaped by the needs and priorities of the TSC community, working toward a future where everyone affected by TSC can live their fullest lives.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi increased biomass, nutritional value, and cochineal resistance of Opuntia ficus-indica plants
Authors: Kebede Teame Gebrehiwot , Birhane Emiru , Ayimut Kiros-Meles , Egziabher Yemane G.
Published: July 2024

Background

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller is dominantly growing on degraded soils in arid and semi-arid areas. The plants might establish a strong association with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to adapt to nutrient, drought, and herbivore insect stress. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of AMF inoculations and variable soil water levels (SWA) on the biomass, nutrient concentration, nutritional composition, and nutrient digestibility of the spiny and spineless O. ficus-indica by inducing resistance to cochineal stress. One mother Opuntia ficus-indica cladode was planted in a single pot in each field with 24 kg mixed soil. AMF inoculums were cultured in sorghum plants in a greenhouse and were inoculated in the planted cladodes. The planted cladodes were arranged using a completely randomized design (CRD) with three factors: AMF (present and absent); O. ficus-indica type (spiny and spineless) and four water treatments with 0–25% of plant available soil water (SWA), 25–50% of SWA, 50–75% of SWA, and 75–100% of SWA.

Results

Drought stress reduced the below and above-ground biomass, cladode nutrient content, nutritional composition, and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD). AMF colonization significantly increased biomass production with significant changes in the macro and micro-nutrient concentrations of O. ficus-indica. AMF inoculation significantly increased the IVDMD and IVOMD of both O. ficus-indica types by improving the biomass, organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), and reduced fiber and ash contents. AMF-inoculated cladodes improved the nutrient concentrations of the cladodes. AMF caused an increase in biomass production, increased tolerance to cochineal stress, and improved nutrient concentration, nutritional composition, and nutrient digestibility performance of O. ficus-indica plants.

Conclusions

AMF improved the performance of the O. ficus-indica plant to resist drought and cochineal stress and increased the biomass, nutrient concentration, nutritional composition, and nutrient digestibility. The potential of O. ficus-indica to adapt to cochineal stress is controlled by the macro and micro-nutrient concentration brought by the AMF association.
Predicting high-risk pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension: an echocardiographic multiparameter scoring index
Authors: Zhai Yanan , Li Aili , Tao Xincao , Gao Qian , Xie Wanmu , Zhang Yu , Chen Aihong , Wang Chi , Lei Jieping , Ding Shangwei , Cai Yantong , Zhai Zhenguo
Published: July 2024

Background

The risk stratification of pulmonary arterial hypertension proposed by the European Society of Cardiology /European Respiratory Society guidelines in 2015 and 2022 included two to three echocardiographic indicators. However, the specific value of echocardiography in risk stratification of pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension (pcPH) has not been efficiently demonstrated. Given the complex geometry of the right ventricular (RV) and influencing factors of echocardiographic parameter, there is no single echocardiographic parameter that reliably informs about PH status. We hypothesize that a multi-parameter comprehensive index can more accurately evaluate the severity of the pcPH. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an echocardiographic risk score model to better assist clinical identifying high risk of pcPH during initial diagnosis and follow-up.

Methods

We studied 197 consecutive patients with pcPH. A multivariable echocardiographic model was constructed to predict the high risk of pcPH in the training set. Points were assigned to significant risk factors in the final model based on β-coefficients. We validated the model internally and externally.

Results

The echocardiographic score was constructed by multivariable logistic regression, which showed that pericardial effusion, right atrial (RA) area, RV outflow tract proximal diameter (RVOT-Prox), the velocity time integral of the right ventricular outflow tract (TVIRVOT) and S’ were predictors of high risk of pcPH. The area under curve (AUC) of the training set of the scoring model was 0.882 (95%CI: 0.809–0.956, p < 0.0001). External validation was tested in a test dataset of 77 patients. The AUC of the external validation set was 0.852. A 10-point score risk score was generated, with scores ranging from 0 to 10 in the training cohort. The estimate risk of high risk of pcPH ranged from 25.1 to 94.6%.

Conclusions

The echocardiographic risk score using five echocardiographic parameters could be comprehensive and useful to predict the high risk of pcPH for initial assessment and follow-up.
Epacadostat plus pembrolizumab versus placebo plus pembrolizumab as first-line treatment for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer with high levels of programmed death-ligand 1: a randomized, double-blind phase 2 study
Authors: Tokito Takaaki , Kolesnik Oleksii , Sørensen Jens , Artac Mehmet , Quintela Martín Lázaro , Lee Jong-Seok , Hussein Maen , Pless Miklos , Paz-Ares Luis , Leopold Lance , Daniel Jeannie , Munteanu Mihaela , Samkari Ayman , Xu Lu , Butts Charles
Published: July 2024

Background

Pembrolizumab is a first-line therapy for certain patients with advanced/metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Combining pembrolizumab with other immunotherapies may enhance tumor cell killing and clinical outcomes. Epacadostat is a selective inhibitor of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1, an immuno-regulatory enzyme involved in tryptophan to kynurenine metabolism that inhibits T cell-mediated immune responses.

Methods

In this randomized phase II study, patients with metastatic NSCLC expressing high (≥ 50%) programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) levels received pembrolizumab 200 mg every 21 days plus oral epacadostat 100 mg twice daily (combination) or matching placebo (control). The primary objective was objective response rate (ORR); secondary objectives were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), duration of response (DOR) and safety/tolerability.

Results

154 patients were randomized (77 per group). Median (range) follow-up was 6.8 months (0.1–11.4) and 7.0 months (0.2–11.9) in the combination and control groups, respectively Confirmed ORR was similar between groups (combination: 32.5%, 95% CI 22.2–44.1; control: 39.0%, 95% CI 28.0–50.8; difference: − 6.5, 95% CI − 21.5 to 8.7; 1-sided P = 0.8000). Median (range) DOR was 6.2 months (1.9 + to 6.5 +) and not reached (1.9 + to 8.6 +) in the combination and control groups, respectively. Although not formally tested, median PFS was 6.7 and 6.2 months for the combination and control groups, respectively, and median OS was not reached in either group. Circulating kynurenine levels increased from C1D1 to C2D1 (P < 0.01) in the control group and decreased from C1D1 to C2D1 (P < 0.01) in the combination group but were not normalized in most patients. The most frequent serious adverse events (AEs) (≥ 2%) were pneumonia (4.0%), anemia (2.7%), atelectasis (2.7%) and pneumonitis (2.7%) in the combination group and pneumonia (3.9%), pneumonitis (2.6%) and hypotension (2.6%) in the control group. Two deaths due to drug-related AEs were reported, both in the control group.

Conclusions

Addition of epacadostat to pembrolizumab therapy for PD-L1–high metastatic NSCLC was generally well tolerated but did not demonstrate an improved therapeutic effect. Evaluating higher doses of epacadostat that normalize kynurenine levels when given in combination with checkpoint inhibitors may be warranted.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03322540. Registered 10/26/2017.
Safety analysis of laboratory parameters in paediatric patients with spinal muscular atrophy treated with nusinersen
Authors: Zhu Xiaomei , Li Hui , Hu Chaoping , Wu Min , Zhou Shuizhen , Wang Yi , Li Wenhui
Published: July 2024

Background

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that can be treated with intrathecal nusinersen, an antisense oligonucleotide. In addition to efficacy, safety is a determining factor in the success of any therapy. Here, we aim to assess the safety of nusinersen therapy in paediatric patients with SMA.

Methods

Laboratory data of paediatric patients with SMA who received nusinersen between October 2019 and May 2022 were retrospectively analysed.

Results

During the observation period, 46 infants and children aged 2.9 months to 13.6 years received a total of 213 nusinersen doses without safety concerns. Inflammatory markers were stable throughout the study. International normalized ratio was increased by 0.09 per injection. Urea levels were increased by 0.108 mmol/L, and cystatin C decreased by 0.029 mg/L per injection. There were no significant changes in platelet count, activated partial thrombin time, creatinine levels or liver enzyme levels during treatment. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leukocyte count remained stable, and total protein increased by 24.038 mg/L per injection.

Conclusion

Our data showed that nusinersen therapy is generally safe in children with SMA. Laboratory monitoring did not identify any persistent or significantly abnormal findings. CSF protein should be monitored to gain more insights.
Arthroscopic medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with polyethylene suture combined with medial retinaculum plication for the treatment of acute patellar dislocation in young and middle-aged patients with a follow-up of at least 2 years
Authors: Liu Deding , Zhou Dongdong , Zhu Zhengwei , Zhang Bao , Zhang Yongchao , Zhao Yaguang , Lv Jiabing , Zhao Jinzhong
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to propose a surgical technique for arthroscopic medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction with polyethylene suture combined with medial retinaculum plication and to evaluate the efficacy of this surgical technique in the treatment of acute patellar dislocation.

Methods

Clinical data of patients with acute patellar dislocations treated with arthroscopic MPFL reconstruction with polyethylene tape (FiberTape) combined with medial support band compression were analyzed retrospectively from January 2018 to January 2021. The mean age of the patients was 25.15 ± 4.66 years; the mean follow-up time was 27.5 (24–36) months. Clinical evaluation consisted of apprehension test results, patellar extrapolation test results, Lysholm score, Kujala score, and IKDC score, the Patellar lateral shift distance and patellar tilt angle (PTA) measured by CT scan.

Results

All patients had no recurrent patellar dislocation or subluxation after surgery, and the apprehension test was negative. In all patients, the Kujala score (36.0 ± 9.9 vs. 98.2 ± 3.1), the IKDC score (48.6 ± 7.0 vs. 90.6 ± 4.4) and the Lysholm score (32.8 ± 10.4 vs. 96.7 ± 3.1) had improved at the 24-month follow up (P < 0.05). In addition, PTA was significantly lower at the 12-month follow-up and 24-giving-month follow-up compared to the preoperative period (P < 0.05, Table 2). The patellar lateral shift distance decreased from 14.94 ± 6.11 mm preoperatively to 3.00 ± 1.40 mm (12-month follow up) and 3.26 ± 1.37 mm (24-month follow up), respectively.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic MPFL reconstruction with polyethylene suture combined with medial retinaculum plication is a safe and reliable surgical technique for the treatment of acute patellar dislocation in young and middle-aged patients.

Level of Evidence

Level III, Therapeutic Study.
Synovial hemangioma presenting with chronic painful infrapatellar mass: a case report
Authors: Suphakitchanusan Wasaphon , Wongboonkuakul Napatr , Trakulsujaritchok Kancharos , Decha-umphai Chomkwan , Chobpenthai Thanapon
Published: July 2024

Background

Synovial hemangiomas are rare benign vascular anomalies surrounded by a synovial lining and were first described by Bouchut in 1856. These neoplasms can develop in the intra-articular region, resulting in effusions and knee pain. However, their cause remains unknown. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are critical to prevent chondral damage. Histopathological examination is used to achieve the diagnosis, which is often delayed because of a lack of specific clinical signs. This report describes a unique case in which a painful infrapatellar mass was diagnosed as a synovial hemangioma. The absence of typical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings highlights the importance of arthroscopic excision for diagnosis and symptom relief.

Case presentation

A 20-year-old woman presented with persistent anterior left knee pain that became exacerbated when she climbed stairs. Despite previous pain management and physical therapy, she developed a painful lump beneath her patella that worsened over time. She had also undergone arthrocentesis, but this did not relieve her pain. Physical examination revealed a palpable, immobile 5-cm mass along the patellar tendon with limited knee flexion and extension and normal ligament stability. T1-weighted fat-saturated MRI of the left knee with gadolinium-based contrast revealed a lobulated intra-articular mass in Hoffa’s fat pad that resembled a soft tissue chondroma. A biopsy of the mass was performed to provide histopathological evidence, confirming the benign nature of the mass. The subsequent excisional arthroscopy, combined with incision enlargement for mass removal, confirmed the histopathologic diagnosis of synovial hemangioma based on the presence of numerous dilated blood vessels and venous proliferation within sections of the synovium. Recovery was complete, and no residual tumor was detected on follow-up MRI after 1 year.

Conclusion

This case study emphasizes the importance of arthroscopic excision over open surgery for patients with synovial hemangioma. The minimally invasive nature of arthroscopy combined with the well-encapsulated nature and location of the mass facilitates complete resection.