bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of sudden unexpected death of infants and its subcategories in low- or middle-income countries: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Rhoda Natasha R , Turawa Eunice , Engel Mark , Ayouni Imen , Zuhlke Liesl , Coetzee David , Mathews Shanaaz
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Infant mortality in low or middle-income countries (LoMICs) is still triple that of high-income countries (HICs), and the high mortality burden regions are also weighed down by a triple or quadruple burden of disease such as HIV and tuberculosis; chronic illness; mental health; injury and violence; and maternal, neonatal and child mortality. Emerging data suggest that the sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) burden in LoMICs is at least 10-fold that in HICs. While ending preventable deaths in the neonatal period has received some global attention, the postnatal period where SUDIs occur is a poorly understood and data-poor area in LoMICs. We propose conducting a systematic review to evaluate the burden and trends of SUDIs in LoMICs since 2004.

Methods and analysis

We will systematically search PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, African Index Medicus, EBSCOHost, Google Scholar, WHOIS and WHO database to identify studies published from July 2004 until October 2024. Two reviewers will screen titles and abstracts and select full-text articles independently for review. We will use the tool developed by the South African Medical Research Council—Burden of Disease Review Manager (BODRevMan)—to assess the risk of bias for each included study. Risk of bias will be assessed for each included study. Information on the prevalence and/or incidence of SUDI and its subcategories and case definitions will be extracted from each article. Where possible, data on prevalence, incidence and subcategories will be pooled using a random effects meta-analysis to account for variability between estimates. The I2statistic will establish the level of heterogeneity due to variation in estimates rather than chance. Results will be presented in tables and graphs. The systematic review will be reported according to the PRISMA 2020 checklist.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as this is a protocol for a systematic review. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023466162.
Human versus Analogue Insulin for Youth with Type 1 Diabetes in Low-Resource Settings (HumAn-1): protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Foulds Abigail , Josey Claire , Kehlenbrink Sylvia , Rollman Bruce L , Chang Chung-Chou H , Lalama Christina , Ansbro Éimhín , Prust Margaret L , Zabeen Bedowra , Ramaiya Kaushik , Ogle Graham , Chae Sae-Rom , Luo Jing
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Long-acting insulin analogues are the standard of care for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in high-income countries but remain largely inaccessible and understudied in low-resource settings. In settings where glycaemic control is typically poor and food insecurity is common, long-acting insulin analogues may offer tangible clinical benefits for people with T1D. To determine whether insulin glargine, a long-acting insulin analogue, reduces the risk of serious hypoglycaemia and/or improves glycaemic time-in-range (TIR) versus human insulin regimens in this population, we are conducting the Human vs Analogue Insulin for Youth with Type 1 Diabetes in Low-Resource Settings randomised controlled trial.

Methods and analysis

This is a 1:1 randomised, parallel-group clinical trial comparing biosimilar insulin glargine with human insulin (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn (NPH) or premixed 70/30 insulin) in 400 youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) recruiting in Dhaka, Bangladesh (n=250) and Mwanza, Tanzania (n=150). Blinded continuous glucose monitors will be used to assess glycaemic control in both study arms over 14-day periods at baseline and at 3, 6 and 12 months after randomisation. The co-primary outcomes are the per cent time in serious hypoglycaemia (<54 mg/dL) and TIR (70–180 mg/dL) at 6 months of follow-up. Secondary outcomes include TIR at 12 months and time-in-hypoglycaemia, time-above-range, nocturnal hypoglycaemic events and glycaemic control (ie, haemoglobin A1C (HbA1c)) at 6- and 12-months of follow-up. Treatment satisfaction and quality of life are assessed at baseline, 6- and 12 month follow-up. Additionally, the study is conducting qualitative interviews, quantitative assessments of treatment satisfaction and quality of life, as well as assessing the cost-effectiveness of analogue insulin use in low-resource settings.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at the University of Pittsburgh (STUDY21110122), the National Health Research Ethics Committee at the National Institute for Medical Research in Tanzania (NIMR/HQ/R.8a/Vol.IX/4265) and the Ethical Review Committee (ERC) of Diabetic Association of Bangladesh (BADAS-ERC/EC/22/405). Research findings will be shared by the local partner organisations and institutions with relevant stakeholders including youth living with diabetes, policy makers, healthcare workers and the general public. Findings will also be shared at local, regional and international scientific meetings.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT05614089.
Determining the incidence, risk factors and biological drivers of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as part of the constellation of postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) outcomes in the Arizona CoVHORT-GI: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Pogreba Brown Kristen , Austhof Erika , McFadden Caitlyn M , Scranton Caroline , Sun Xiaoxiao , Vujkovic-Cviji Ivan , Rodriguez Dominic , Falk Laura , Heslin Kelly M , Arani Gayatri , Obergh Victoria , Bessey Kate , Cooper Kerry
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) are extensive. Also known as long COVID, primary outcomes reported are neurologic, cardiac and respiratory in nature. However, several studies have also reported an increase in gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and syndromes following COVID-19. This study of PASC will include extensive analyses of GI symptoms, determine if people with pre-existing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are at higher risk of developing PASC generally or PASC-GI, and which biomarkers are impacted and to what degree. This R01 study is being funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (1R01DK135483-01) from 2023 to 2028.

Methods and analyses

This study combines a longitudinal epidemiologic cohort study and in-depth, novel biologic analyses. In collaboration with a pre-existing study, the Arizona CoVID-19 Cohort (CoVHORT)-GI will recruit participants based on the history of COVID infection(s), new or ongoing GI symptoms 3–6 months postinfection, and pre-existing or incident IBS diagnosis to represent five study groups for comparison and analyses. A subset (n=1000) of those recruited will submit both stool and blood samples. Both samples will undergo a novel method to quantitate humoral and mucosal immune responses to host-derived faecal communities in conjunction with magnetic bead-based separation and high-depth shotgun microbial sequencing. Stool samples will also undergo traditional microbiome analyses (diversity and abundance) and faecal calprotectin assays. Additional serum analyses will aim to determine if a proteomics-based signature exists that differentiates a unique biomarker compositional signature discriminating PASC-GI versus no PASC. All laboratory data will be linked with in-depth epidemiologic data on demographics, symptoms and chronic conditions.

Ethics and dissemination

This study involves human participants and was approved by the University of Arizona Institutional Review Board (IRB (#00002332) and has been deemed minimal risk. Participants gave informed consent to participate in the study before taking part. All publications from the study will be shared back to participants along with alternative lay summaries and webinars to communicate key findings. The data management plan has been published and is publicly available online, including protocols for data requests.
Reducing the urge to be physically active in patients with anorexia nervosa through virtual reality: protocol for a randomised-controlled feasibility trial
Authors: Halbeisen Georg , Timmesfeld Nina , Paslakis Georgios
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Weight restoration is a primary goal in anorexia nervosa (AN) treatment. Recent studies suggest that addressing physical activity urges in patients with AN is a promising target to facilitate weight restoration. This trial will evaluate the feasibility of a virtual reality (VR)-based intervention as an add-on treatment to psychotherapy to improve activity urges and, consequently, initial treatment responses on core outcomes as targeted per AN treatment guidelines.

Methods and analysis

This single-centre feasibility trial adopts the single-blind, two-arm design and outcome measures of an intended full-scale randomised controlled trial (RCT) in order to establish that all necessary trial components work together as intended. It will evaluate feasibility as the primary endpoint and compare changes in ratings of the urge to be active between patients with AN randomly assigned to receiving VR intervention sessions and patients with AN in a control procedure. The feasibility of the full-scale RCT will depend on whether patients (1) will evaluate the experience as acceptable, (2) tolerate VR side effects and (3) will adhere to the intended intervention schedule. We define a set of three-tiered, formal progression criteria and employ a ‘traffic light system’ demarcating go (green), amend (amber) and stop (red) signals for advancing to the full-scale RCT.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the ethics committee of the Ruhr University Bochum’s Medical Faculty at Campus East-Westphalia (AZ 2024-1296, 9 December 2024). Patients have to provide written consent before taking part in the study. The findings will be published with open access.

Trial registration number

DRKS00035681, German Clinical Trials Register.
Risk Analysis of Residential Buildings Subject to Induced Seismicity in British Columbia
Authors: Esposito Gennaro , Fenton Gordon A.
Published: January 2025

The recent increase of small to moderate induced seismicity in an area between Fort St. John and Dawson Creek, British Columbia, from hydraulic fracturing, has raised concerns on the impact that such events might cause to residential constructions. To estimate the induced seismicity risk for wood-frame residential buildings, we first derive the short-term induced-seismic hazard for the study area. Then, we describe the conditional probability of failure, where failure ranges from minor cosmetic damage to the initiation of collapse. The convolution of the hazard and of the conditional probability of failure allows to estimate the probability of exceedance of each damage level. The model predicts that probabilities of damage for any limit state and any location in the study area always two orders of magnitudes smaller than the damage thresholds. Only for the most resilient timber frame model, the model predicts a probability of exceeding the ultimate limit state larger than the target.
Two-photon excited fluorescence with shaped laser pulses for refractive beams
Authors: S. Bukhari S. S. A. , Gottschalk R. , Lindinger A.
Published: January 2025

We report two-photon excited fluorescence of dyes for refracted laser beams by utilizing tailored laser pulses. A fluorescence contrast difference due to phase shaping could be achieved between different coumarin dyes. Particularly, an increased contrast difference is obtained for configurations close to the Brewster angle. Furthermore, by using a subsequent deformable phase plate for spatial shaping it was possible to precisely adjust the laser beam for controlled refraction at the liquid dye surface. A polarization-dependent refraction was observed when directing the shaped laser beam on the curved liquid adhesion meniscus close to the cuvette wall. This results in a refraction-dependent contrast difference. The presented method could be utilized for surface-sensitive biophotonic imaging applications.

Graphic abstract
Optimizing Tourism Route Design Using Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Wang Jia
Published: January 2025

Tourism route planning significantly enhances the tourist experience by curating efficient and engaging itineraries. This strategic approach not only minimizes travel time but also highlights attractive destinations, ensuring that visitors fully enjoy their journey. Traditional tourism route designs often fail to personalize and optimize routes based on individual tourist preferences and constraints, resulting in suboptimal experiences. The study’s objective was to maximize tourism route design by employing a clustering algorithm to group tourist destinations based on proximity and tourist preferences, ultimately creating efficient personalized itineraries. Initially, the study collected data from various sources, including location coordinates, tourist preferences, and travel distances. The study proposed an Intelligent Artificial Rabbit Algorithm-driven Density-based Spatial Clustering (IARA-DSC) method that computes the shortest and most efficient routes between clustered destinations by effectively grouping them based on proximity and tourist preferences, optimizing travel itineraries, and enhancing overall tourist satisfaction. The IARA-DSC method for tourism route design systems resulted in more personalized and efficient routes. The model reduced travel time, improved tourist satisfaction, and optimized travel paths based on individual preferences compared to traditional methods. This study provides significant benefits for both tourists and tourism operators by enhancing travel experiences and optimizing resource utilization.
Optimization Research on Anomaly Detection and Localization Algorithm for Complex Power Networks
Authors: Jiang Zetao , Wei Fusheng , Du Jinyang , Jiang Ziqi , Chen Haiyan
Published: January 2025

Efficient power networks are crucial for modern society, ensuring reliable electricity supply to homes, businesses, and industries while supporting economic growth and technological advancements. They also contribute to environmental sustainability by facilitating the transition to renewable energy sources and reducing environmental impact. Moreover, efficient power networks play a critical role in disaster response, healthcare delivery, and communication systems. Given the complexities inherent in power networks, effective anomaly detection is essential to prevent disruptions like power outages and economic losses. To address this, a novel artificial intelligence-based anomaly detection and localization approach is proposed. This approach involves three key steps: preprocessing, feature extraction, and anomaly detection and localization. In the preprocessing step, the signal decomposition technique breaks down the input signal into smaller segments. Statistical features are then extracted from these segments in the feature extraction step. These features are inputted into an Improved Deep Neural Network (IDNN) model for anomaly detection. Finally, an Enhanced Coati Optimization Algorithm (ECOA)-based Support Vector Regression (SVR) model is utilized to locate the exact location of the detected anomaly. The proposed approach is evaluated through various analyses to demonstrate its effectiveness in enhancing situational awareness and resilience, thereby ensuring the reliability and stability of complex power networks.
From Product to Producer: The Impact of Perceptual Evidence and Robot Embodiment on the Human Assessment of AI Creativity
Authors: Pennanen Niki , Linkola Simo , Kantosalo Anna , Hiillos Nicolas , Männistö Tomi , Guckelsberger Christian
Published: January 2025

While creative artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming integral to our lives, we know little about what makes us call AI “creative”. Informed by prior theoretical and empirical work, we investigate how perceiving evidence of a creative act beyond the final product affects our assessment of robot creativity. We study embodiment morphology as a potential moderator of this relationship, informing a 3x2 factorial design. In two lab experiments on visual art, participants (N=30+60) assessed drawings produced by two physical robots with different morphologies, under exposure to product, process, and producer as three levels of perceptual evidence. The data supports that the human assessment of robot creativity is significantly higher the more is revealed beyond the product about the creation process, and eventually the producer. We find no significant effects of embodiment morphology, contrasting existing hypotheses and offering a more detailed understanding for future work. Future work is further informed by additional exploratory analyses revealing factors potentially influencing creativity assessments, including perceived robot likeability and participants’ experience with robotics and AI. Our insights empirically ground existing design patterns, foster fairness and validity in system comparisons, contribute to a deeper understanding of our relationship with creative AI and thus its adoption in society.
Expressing the Needs in Smart Home: What is the End Users’ Favorite Way
Authors: Chen Xiaohong , Chen Shi , Jin Zhi , Bian Han , Chen Zihan , Li Haotian
Published: January 2025

The Internet of Things (IoT) has witnessed remarkable advancements, enabling smart homes with user-centric features. To effectively articulate their personalized needs, it becomes crucial to equip end users with programming capabilities. Currently, the executable Trigger-Action Programming (TAP) rules have become the mainstream paradigm for IoT end-user programming. To simplify the creation of TAP rules, many studies have proposed various levels of requirements abstraction, yet the connections between them remain unclear. In this paper, we employ a mixed-methods study to identify the preferred way of expressing end users’ requirements in practical scenarios. Subsequently, from the perspective of requirements engineering, we categorize the needs of smart home into three hierarchical levels of abstraction. Accordingly, we propose an innovative multi-level requirements description language called
SH-RDL
. We also address potential challenges and conduct an evaluation to validate
SH-RDL
’s usability, understandability and error-prevention. This will aid in the broader adoption of IoT end-user programming.
Revealing the Layers of History: Enriching Medieval Cultural Heritage 4D Models with Interactive Narratives
Authors: Andujar Carlos , Cayuela Begoña , Otzet Immaculada Lorés , Bosch Carles , Guardia Milagros , Munoz-Pandiella Imanol
Published: January 2025

Cultural heritage preservation is increasingly leveraging digital technologies to support art history research and to provide educational experiences to the public. In the case of some Medieval monuments, the myriad of architectural and pictorial transformations suffered due to the passage of time, and the geographical dispersion of its remaining decoration, substantially hinder their understanding. In this paper, we present a novel approach for enriching multi-layered, multi-phase 3D models of cultural heritage monuments with art history knowledge. Such knowledge is presented in the form of image-based annotations, interactive narratives, points of interest, text, and audio, organized into a collection of guided tours enabling visitors to traverse through different historical phases of the monument. A key benefit of our approach is that art historians require no programming skills to easily define all the elements of the interactive narratives. Our approach integrates various multimedia elements seamlessly into 3D models, offering visitors an engaging and informative journey through space and time. We conducted a pilot user evaluation to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, highlighting its value in enhancing visitor engagement and understanding of cultural heritage. The study also provided valuable feedback on the user experience, which allowed us to enhance the final version of the web-based application and the associated narratives.
RoboCam: Model-Based Robotic Visual Sensing for Precise Inspection of Mesh Screens
Authors: Zhou Siyuan , Le Duc Van , Jiang Linshan , Chen Zhuoran , Peng Xiaohua , Ho Daren , Zheng Jianmin , Tan Rui
Published: January 2025

The 3D-printed mesh screen with dense penetrating pores is a new structure for massive manufacturing of molded pulp package products. However, some of the pores may be clogged by the printing material powder during the printing process. Such defects negatively affect the quality of the pulp packages produced using the mesh screen mold. To pinpoint the defects, we design a model-based robotic visual sensing system, called RoboCam, which uses a robotic arm to carry a high-resolution camera for full inspection of a mold consisting of joined mesh screens. To inspect the entire mold, RoboCam plans the camera poses to capture multiple images of the mold and render synthesized images as references for identifying the clogged pores. In particular, we propose novel designs to rectify the inherent run-time pose errors of the robotic system for ensuring the reference quality and to accelerate the reference rendering for reducing inspection latency. Extensive evaluation shows that RoboCam’s design outperforms various baselines, including three existing computer vision and convolution neural network-based inspection systems. RoboCam achieves a recall rate of 94.95% within 528 seconds latency for inspecting an entire mold with 13,000 designed pores.
Virtual laboratories complement but should not replace face-to-face classes: perceptions of life science students at Dundalk Institute of Technology, Ireland
Authors: Griffin Caoimhin S. , Loughran Sinead , Kelly Bridget , Healy Edel , Lambe Gillian , van Rossum Arjan , Murphy Brian , Moore Eric , Burke Christopher , Morrin Aoife , Breslin Carmel , Heaney Frances , Rooney Denise , Bree Ronan , Drumm Bernard T.
Published: January 2025

This study represents the largest and most systematic analysis of student perceptions of life science virtual laboratories conducted in Ireland. Our findings provide student-centered feedback on the potential benefits and challenges of using virtual laboratories to enhance life science learning and have wide implications for how these resources might be best utilized in other institutions in the future.
Body composition alterations in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Snoke Deena B. , Atwood Gary S. , Bellefleur Emma R. , Stokes Alice M. , Toth Michael J.
Published: January 2025

Most patients with lung cancer experience cancer cachexia (CC), a syndrome of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue wasting. Knowledge of body composition changes in patients is limited, however, because most studies have been cross-sectional, comparing patients with noncancer controls or patients with and without CC. Few studies, in contrast, have evaluated body composition in patients with lung cancer over time. This review examines our current understanding of longitudinal body composition changes in patients with lung cancer and identifies modifying factors contributing to variation in muscle and adipose tissue wasting, focusing on biological sex. We identified 32 studies conducting longitudinal measurements of body composition by computed tomography, bioelectrical impedance, dual X-ray absorptiometry, or total body nitrogen, with a total of n = 3,951 patients (35% female). All studies evaluated changes following diagnosis while patients were receiving treatment. Most studies reporting muscle-specific outcomes show decreased skeletal muscle mass, with more pronounced muscle wasting in males and male-enriched populations. In a small number of studies reporting muscle density, the majority show increased myosteatosis. Adiposity changes are less frequently reported, although wasting appears more prevalent in late-stage disease. Further studies are needed to define adipose changes along the lung cancer continuum. Our review emphasizes the need for balanced recruitment based on biological sex and sex-based analyses. In addition, consensus reporting of relevant patient data and outcomes in future studies will allow for meta-analysis and assist in the development of effective treatments for lung CC.
Gestational arsenite exposure alters maternal postpartum heart size and induces Ca2+-handling dysregulation in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Taube Nicole , Steiner Morgan , Ebenebe-Kasonde Obialunanma V. , Kabir Raihan , Garbus-Grant Haley , Alam El Din Sarah-Marie , Illingworth Emily , Wang Nadan , Lin Brian L. , Kohr Mark J.
Published: January 2025

Gestational exposure to sodium arsenite at environmentally relevant doses (100 and 1,000 µg/L) increases postpartum heart size, and induces dysregulated Ca2+ homeostasis and impaired shortening in isolated cardiomyocytes. This is the first study to demonstrate that gestational arsenic exposure impacts postpartum heart structure and function beyond the exposure period.
Enhanced vascular contraction induced by exposure to angiotensin II mediated by endothelin-1 biosynthesis following PKCβ activation
Authors: Tajima Hirotaka , Morikita Nayu , Mukohda Masashi , Nakamura Sho , Seki Mihiro , Imai Ryuya , Saito Fumiyo , Mizuno Risuke , Ozaki Hiroshi
Published: January 2025

We studied the role of PKCβ in Ang II-induced hypertension using a rat model. Our study showed that PKCβ plays a key role in Ang II-induced vascular hypercontractility. Our results also suggest that transcriptional activation-mediated ET-1 expression in vascular smooth muscle is responsible for this vascular change as a downstream pathway of PKCβ activation, which leads to blood pressure elevation. This Ang II-PKCβ-ET-1 mechanism may affect vascular homeostasis in hypertension.
Exposure to prenatal hypoxia impairs the function and structure of the carotid arteries in the adult offspring
Authors: Graton Murilo E. , de Oliveira Amanda A. , Neupane Aryan , Quon Anita , Kirschenman Raven , Spaans Floor , Davidge Sandra T.
Published: January 2025

Little is known about the (long-lasting) impact of pregnancy complications on offspring carotid artery function. We showed that, in adult male offspring, prenatal hypoxia decreased carotid artery myogenic tone and stiffness and changed collagen and elastin densities, whereas in females, prenatal hypoxia increased stiffness. These findings contribute to understanding sex-specific differences of adult offspring exposed to a suboptimal in utero environment on the carotid arteries, an important/easily accessible vascular bed for patient disease evaluation.
The circulating renin-angiotensin system and mortality among patients hospitalized for COVID-19: a mechanistic substudy of the ACTIV-4 Host Tissue trials
Authors: Schaich Christopher L. , Chappell Mark C. , Shotwell Matthew S. , Joly Meghan M. , Gibbs Kevin W. , Barksdale Aaron , Douglas Ivor S. , Chen Peter , Levitt Joseph E. , Puskarich Michael A. , Rice Todd W. , Harkins Michelle S. , Hudock Kristin M. , Lanspa Michael J. , Ginde Adit A. , Self Wesley H. , Collins Sean P. , Files D. Clark ,   on behalf of the ACTIV-4 Host Tissue Investigators
Published: January 2025

We measured circulating components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) longitudinally over 5 days among patients hospitalized with COVID-19 and new-onset hypoxemia. We found that higher serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 protein and ACE2/ACE ratio, both at baseline and when analyzed as time-varying, repeated measures, were associated with lower 90-day mortality. Results suggest a role for circulating ACE2 as a biomarker of adverse outcomes and could inform treatment strategies targeting the RAS in severe COVID-19 illness.
Characterization of receptive fields in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus of the tammar wallaby
Authors: Jung Young Jun , Meffin Hamish , Ibbotson Michael R.
Published: January 2025

This study examines receptive field (RF) properties of neurons in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) of wallabies using multichannel electrodes and nonlinear input model (NIM) analysis. We identified two main cell types: X-cells (linear) and Y-cells (nonlinear). Most dLGN RFs were blob-like, with mild orientation biases in 41% of neurons, indicating robust orientation selectivity develops fully in primary visual cortex (V1) (76% of neurons).
From Bench to Clinic: Crosslinking Approaches for Next‐Generation Collagen Fillers
Authors: Wu Song-Yi , Tsai Chen-Chi , Tsai Wei-Bor
Published: January 2025

With a deeper understanding of the aging process, injectable dermal fillers have revolutionized cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery. These minimally invasive treatments address signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and volume loss. The market for injectable dermal fillers expands yearly, with each product offering unique compositions that influence therapeutic outcomes, handling properties, and potential adverse effects. Fillers are generally classified into three major types: temporary, semi‐permanent, and permanent. Temporary fillers, including hyaluronic acid (HA) and collagen (COL)‐based options, provide reliable correction but typically have limited longevity. Semi‐permanent and permanent fillers, made from synthetic materials like poly‐L‐lactic acid and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), offer extended durations of neocollagenesis. This review focuses specifically on COL‐based fillers, discussing both FDA‐approved products and those still in the research stage.
Thyroid Storm Triggered by Rotavirus Infection in a 10‐Year‐Old Girl
Authors: Miyahara Masazumi , Otsuki Shizuka
Published: January 2025

We encountered a case of Graves’ disease in a pediatric patient who presented with thyroid storm (TS), the onset of which was triggered by rotavirus infection. Rotavirus is commonly associated with severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration—particularly in infants and young children. In more severe cases, it can also lead to altered consciousness and seizures. These symptoms can resemble those of TS, even in the absence of pre‐existing hyperthyroidism. In cases of hyperthyroidism, these symptoms confirm the criteria for TS. Therefore, it is possible that some cases of TS are triggered and caused by gastrointestinal conditions such as rotavirus infection. Our case highlights the need for further investigation into the potential triggering pathogens in patients with TS to better clarify details regarding the patient’s status or disease pathogenesis.
Predetermined Performance Control of Spacecraft Formation Based on SE(3) Error Description
Authors: Li Lijun , Wang Yuanda , Yang Qin , Wang Erhan
Published: January 2025

For the obstacle avoidance and formation maintenance issues of spacecraft formation, a control method with prescribed performance is proposed. Firstly, an error description system based on SE (3) is established. Secondly, to simplify the control system, collision avoidance, formation control of leading spacecraft, and containment control of following spacecraft are combined. Finally, the control errors are kept within the prescribed performance function range using prescribed performance control. Simulation results of spacecraft formation completing complex tasks under external disturbances validate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Characterization of the Phenotypic and Genotypic Antibiotic Resistance Markers in Escherichia coli (E. coli) Associated With Diabetes and Nondiabetic Patients
Authors: Adjei David Nana , Mughogho Thomas Stuart , Michael Olu-Taiwo , Saidu Sarah , Amegatcher Gloria , Forson Akua Obeng
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs) than those without the disease. This study aimed to determine the phenotypic and genotypic antibiotic resistance profiles of Escherichia coli in diabetic and nondiabetic patients.

Methodology: A total of 374 clean‐catch midstream urine specimens were screened for uropathogens, and antibiogram analysis was done on E. coli isolates by the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method, followed by phenotypic confirmation of extended spectrum beta‐lactamase (ESBL) production. In addition, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays were carried out to determine ESBL genotypes.

Result: Overall, we observed UTIs prevalence of 19.8% and 10.7% in diabetic and nondiabetic patients. Females exhibited higher UTI prevalence than males in both groups ([71.8% and 28.2%] vs. [85% and 15%]) (p < 0.0001). Among women with and without diabetes, the age groups of 55–64 and 25–34 years showed the highest prevalence of UTIs (25.6% vs. 40%). The most prevalent uropathogen was E. coli (62.2% vs. 75%); multidrug‐resistant (MDR) E. coli was (61% vs. 33.3%) and ESBL–E. coli was (34.8% and 20%) in diabetic and nondiabetic patients, respectively. The most common ESBL‐mediated gene was blaCTX‐M (64.3%) with multiple ESBL genes in some E. coli isolates. High‐level resistance was observed for ampicillin (91.2%), cefuroxime (96.7%), ciprofloxacin (44.9%), and trimethoprim (59.4%), and low‐level resistance was observed for gentamicin (18.7%), ceftriaxone (20.9%), and nitrofurantoin (19.8%). There was no significant difference between antibiotic resistance in diabetic and nondiabetic patients (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: We observed blaCTX‐M as the most common ESBL genotype, in combination with other ESBL genes present in some E. coli isolates. Nitrofurantoin and ceftriaxone antibiotics were efficacious. Appropriate prescription of antibiotic therapy, and the prevention of transmission of resistant genes in the context of public health can be facilitated by routine monitoring of the resistance profiles and ESBL markers in patients with and without diabetes.
Challenges in HIV Diagnosis Algorithm: Experience of the Confirmation Laboratory
Authors: Appak Özgür , Özarslan Derya , Nazlı Arzu , Sayiner Ayca Arzu
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the algorithm used in HIV diagnosis and to propose an effective new algorithm for rapid diagnosis. In accordance with CDC algorithm, our laboratory uses Architect HIVAg/Ab for screening and Geenius HIV1/2 and Artus HIVirus‐1 QS‐RGQ for confirmation. The Geenius test was used as a reflex and the HIV‐1‐RNA required clinician order. The HIVAg/Ab test was performed in 82,882 sera and found to be reactive in 262 (0.3%). HIV‐antibody confirmatory testing was performed on 79% of samples with a reactive screening test, and the presence of HIV‐1 antibodies was confirmed in 51% (105/206). Half of the samples with positive‐screening but negative‐antibody confirmatory results were tested for HIV1‐RNA, and viremia was detected in 5, confirming acute HIV1 infection. HIV1‐RNA was not ordered for 49 samples with positive‐screening and negative antibody‐confirmation tests, and 16 of these were considered false‐reactive by the clinician. The Geenius assay result was indeterminate in 1.45% (3/206) of the samples. In the algorithm, the number of Geenius tests would have been reduced by 25% if HIV‐1‐RNA had been applied as a reflex test to HIV‐Ag/Ab positive samples and Geenius testing had been performed on RNA negative samples. A retrospective analysis showed that the HIV diagnostic algorithm was not fully implemented. An important factor was that clinicians did not order HIV‐1‐RNA‐PCR from ELISA reactive and Geenius test negative patients. Requesting HIV‐1 RNA PCR as a reflex test is thought to prevent patient losses and shorten the turnaround time of the HIV diagnosis.
Fucoxanthin Inhibits the NMDA and AMPA Receptors Through Regulating the Calcium Response on Substantia Gelatinosa Neurons of the Trigeminal Subnucleus Caudalis in Juvenile Mice
Authors: Le Nhung Ha Thuy , Park Seon Ah , Kim Yu Mi , Ahn Dong Kuk , Jung Won , Han Seong Kyu
Published: January 2025

Glutamate excitotoxicity is considered as the etiology of stroke and neurodegenerative diseases, namely, Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and others. Meanwhile, substantia gelatinosa (SG) neurons of the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (Vc), a pivotal site in regulating orofacial nociceptive transmission via Aδ and C primary afferent fibers, majorly utilize glutamate as the principal excitatory neurotransmitter. Fucoxanthin (FCX), a carotenoid pigment extracted from brown seaweed, possesses various pharmaceutical properties including neuroprotective effect in multiple neuronal populations. To date, the direct activity of FCX on the SG of the Vc has not been extensively clarified. Consequently, we investigated the effect of FCX on excitatory signaling mediated by ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), using the patch‐clamp technique recorded from SG neurons of the Vc. Here, FCX directly acted on glutamate receptors independent of voltage‐gated sodium channel and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)A/glycine receptors in the voltage‐clamp mode. Specifically, the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartic acid (NMDA)‐ and α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)‐induced responses but not the kainic acid receptor (KAR)‐mediated response were suppressed by FCX in standard extracellular solution. Additionally, the inhibitory effect of FCX on NMDA currents was repeatable and concentration‐dependent. The FCX blockade of NMDA‐mediated excitotoxicity was associated with the modulation of Ca2+ response without affecting Na+ ions. The Ca2+‐dependent fluorescence intensity of brain slice was reduced in the presence of FCX. Notably, FCX significantly attenuated the spontaneous firing activity of SG neurons. Altogether, these results reveal that FCX may protect SG neurons against glutamate excitotoxicity via primarily regulating Ca2+ response, thereby inhibiting the excitatory signaling induced by NMDA and AMPA receptors (AMPARs).
Dynamic Response Law of Nonpersistent Jointed Rock Mass Under Normal Impact Load
Authors: Deng Xianshi , Chang Yan , Hu Rong , Deng Heng , Lu Duofang
Published: January 2025

Normal dynamic mechanical characteristics of the jointed rock mass are of great significance for studying the working state of rock mass with nonpersistent joint. In this paper, combined with the joint normal deformation theory, the rock‐like materials with penetration along different normal directions were analyzed under impact tests of different weights and heights. The experimental results show that under the same impact conditions, as the joint penetration length L increases from 0 to 100 mm, the peak load and joint stiffness of the rock mass joint specimen gradually decrease during the impact process, and the normal dynamic compression displacement and the normal closure of the rock mass joint gradually increase. The energy dissipation gradually decreases at the impact heights of 500, 1000, and 1500 mm. When the impact height is 2000 mm, the energy dissipation first increases and then decreases. Under the action of cyclic impact, the crack propagation path of jointed rock mass specimens is that the cracks originate at the loading place and develop to the joint surface and then spread to the weak joint end to form 90° wing cracks. The crack width, propagation scale, and damage degree gradually expand with the increase in joint penetration length L.
Characterization of TNG348: A Selective, Allosteric USP1 Inhibitor That Synergizes with PARP Inhibitors in Tumors with Homologous Recombination Deficiency
Authors: Simoneau Antoine , Pratt Charlotte B. , Wu Hsin-Jung , Rajeswaran Shreya S. , Comer Charlotte Grace , Sudsakorn Sirimas , Zhang Wenhai , Liu Shangtao , Meier Samuel R. , Choi Ashley H. , Khendu Tenzing , Stowe Hannah , Shen Binzhang , Whittington Douglas A. , Chen Yingnan , Yu Yi , Mallender William D. , Feng Tianshu , Andersen Jannik N. , Maxwell John P. , Throner Scott
Published: January 2025

Inhibition of the deubiquitinating enzyme USP1 can induce synthetic lethality in tumors characterized by homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) and represents a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of BRCA1/2-mutant cancers, potentially including patients whose tumors have primary or acquired resistance to PARP inhibitors (PARPi). In this study, we present a comprehensive characterization of TNG348, an allosteric, selective, and reversible inhibitor of USP1. TNG348 induces dose-dependent accumulation of ubiquitinated protein substrates both in vitro and in vivo. CRISPR screens show that TNG348 exerts its antitumor effect by disrupting the translesion synthesis pathway of DNA damage tolerance through RAD18-dependent ubiquitinated PCNA. Although TNG348 and PARPi share the ability to selectively kill HRD tumor cells, CRISPR screens reveal that TNG348 and PARPi do so through discrete mechanisms. Particularly, knocking out PARP1 causes resistance to PARPi but sensitizes cells to TNG348 treatment. Consistent with these findings, combination of TNG348 with PARPi leads to synergistic antitumor effects in HRD tumors, resulting in tumor growth inhibition and regression in multiple mouse xenograft tumor models. Importantly, our data on human cancer models further show that the addition of TNG348 to PARPi treatment can overcome acquired PARPi resistance in vivo. Although the clinical development of TNG348 has been discontinued because of unexpected liver toxicity in patients (NCT06065059), the present data provide preclinical and mechanistic support for the continued exploration of USP1 as a drug target for the treatment of patients with BRCA1/2-mutant or HRD cancers.
Colonic Dieulafoy Lesion as a Rare Cause of Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Farag Mohamed , Diaz Yordanka , Patel Harish
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Dieulafoy lesion is one of the most under-recognized sources of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding (GI), typically manifesting as acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding; endoscopy is usually the first diagnostic and therapeutic modality utilized to handle these lesions by employing a variety of procedures. Case Report: This is a case of an 81-year-old female who was being assessed after experiencing repeated bouts of melena with hemoglobin drop. The patient had multiple comorbidities but no history of gastrointestinal bleeding. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed only Erythematous duodenopathy without active bleeding; the initial colonoscopy revealed a large amount of blood without identifying the source of bleeding; a second colonoscopy revealed classic Dieulafoy lesions in the splenic flexure, which were injected and clipped, and the bleeding ceased. Conclusion: Dieulafoy lesions are most frequently found in the stomach and gastroesophageal junction, but they have also been documented in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. In this particular instance, the lesions were identified in the colon, which is an unusual location for them, and they were treated endoscopically by clipping and injecting. In conclusion, colonic Dieulafoy lesions, although rare, have the potential to cause life-threatening bleeding and should be included in the differential diagnosis of lower gastrointestinal bleeding.
A Single-Centre Experience with Continuous and Pulsatile Flow Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Lindner Simon , Steffen Henning Johann , Akin Ibrahim , Jabbour Claude , Duerschmied Daniel , Helbing Thomas , Britsch Simone
Published: January 2025

Objective: Pulsatile flow in Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for treatment of cardiogenic shock may yield physiological benefits over continuous flow. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate whether there are detectable differences between these modes in a small single-centre cohort.
Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent VA-ECMO support for cardiogenic shock at our institution between 2019 and 2023. Data collected included demographic information, disease severity scores, duration of ECMO support and duration of pulsatile flow. Primary outcome variables were in-hospital mortality and Barthel score. Safety outcomes were stroke or systemic embolization, bleeding, and limb ischemia.
Results: A total of 66 patients were included in the analysis. 17 (26 %) had received continuous and 49 (74 %) pulsatile VA-ECMO. In-hospital mortality was 71 % vs. 80 % (p = 0.445) and mean Barthel scores in survivors were 85 vs. 71 (p = 0.488). All safety outcomes were similar between the groups. In VA-ECMO devices capable of pulsatility, actual pulsatile flow was delivered during 64% of total runtime.
Conclusion: We could not demonstrate clear differences in mortality or functional outcome between pulsatile and continuous flow in this single-centre cohort. However, the small sample size, short time of actual pulsatile flow and several between group differences clearly limit the robustness of this observation. The inconclusive nature of our results underscores the need for larger and randomised controlled trials.
Concurrent representations of reinstated and transformed memories and their modulation by reward
Authors: Schultz Heidrun , Stoffregen Hanna , Dabas Aroma , Alcobendas María , Benoit Roland G.
Published: January 2025

An integral part of episodic retrieval is the reinstatement of neural activity that was present in the medial temporal lobe during encoding. However, neural memory representations do not remain static. Consolidation promotes the transformation of representations that are specific to individual episodes toward more generalized representations that reflect commonalities across episodes. Moreover, reward has been shown to augment episodic memory by enhancing consolidation, and it may accelerate the transformation of neural memory representations. We investigated this account with n = 40 human participants using fMRI and an associative memory task. They encoded pictures of objects, each with one of four recurring scenes. Two scenes led to high reward, and two led to low reward. The next day, participants encountered the objects again and retrieved the scenes from memory. Using representational similarity analysis, we demonstrate that retrieval is concurrently accompanied by the reinstatement of original neural representations and the activation of transformed, more generalized memories. Specifically, the parahippocampal cortex reinstates scene-specific patterns from the encoding phase during successful retrieval. In contrast, activity patterns in the medial prefrontal cortex and anterior hippocampus reflect transformed memories: They become more similar to each other for memories sharing the same scene, independent of memory success. Importantly, high reward enhances memory transformation in the anterior hippocampus. The brain thus maintains complementary memory representations: An episodic representation that resembles the original encoding pattern, and a generalized representation that summarizes commonalities across memories—in part for particularly valuable information.