bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Laboratory Measurements for Quantification of the Effect of Fracture Frequency on Ultrasonic Velocity and Rock Mass Quality
Authors: Melati Sari , Kresna Wattimena Ridho , Prambudi Sahara David , Marihot Simangunsong Ganda , Hidayat Wahyu , Suharsono
Published: December 2024

A method interpreting velocity variations being the rock mass quality is crucial because micro seismic tomography has been implemented in most massive mining. So, geophysical data in velocity distribution should be optimized for geotechnical analysis and mining stability. Four samples of hard rock mass were drilled to obtain the core samples: Beser Andesite, Gunung Parang Gabro, Sentolo Limestone, and Wonosari Limestone. Artificial joints were prepared using a diamond rock cutter, producing the planar and parallel joints. The design of fracture frequency in this experiment varies from 0 to 20’s joints/meter as representative of rock mass. The ultrasonic velocity apparatus, Oyo Sonic Viewer SX, and Ultracon170 Concrete Tester were operated to measure the P-wave velocities from the P-wave form. The laboratory measurement of ultrasonic velocity on intact and jointed rock samples was successfully conducted. The empirical equation between fracture frequency and ultrasonic velocity was proposed as Vpj/Vp0 = e−0.041FF. It will be useful to determine the rock mass quality using velocity variation.
Determination of the significance of hydraulic fracturing success factors for shale reservoir
Authors: Wardani Lisna , Islami Nada , Erfando Tomi , Hidayat Fiki , Khairul Afdhol M.
Published: December 2024

Shale gas is a shale rock that has low permeability. The right way to explore it is to do hydraulic fracturing to increase well productivity by injecting fluid into the fracture using high pressure. The statistical method used to establish a relationship between one independent variable X or more with a response variable Y uses linear regression analysis. The method used in this research is simulation research, using a CMG GEM simulator for reservoir simulation modeling and running sensitivity analysis using CMOST for as much as 80 data, then performing multiple linear regression analysis with SPSS (Statistical Product for Service Solutions). This study aims to determine the factor parameters that are significant to the success of hydraulic fracturing in shale gas. Parameters used for sensitivity analysis were significant factors for successful hydraulic fracturing: fracture half-length, matrix porosity, young elastic modulus, natural fracture porosity, Poisson ratio, and Langmuir pressure. The results of the T-test, which were carried out partially sequentially, showed that the variable X1 (fracture half-length) effect with a significant value of 0.985 > 0.05, variable X3 (Young’s modulus of elasticity) significant value of 0.734, variable X4 (natural fracture porosity), dan variable X6 (pressure langmuir) significant value 0.088. In addition to the results of the F hypothesis, the calculated F value simultaneously (together) is 11.231. While the R-value Square (R2) is 0.480 if it is a percentage, the result is 48%. It can be concluded that the six independent variables affect the dependent variable by 48%. The remaining percentage, about 52%, is influenced by other independent variables, which are not examined in this study.
Dynamical generation and transfer of nonclassical states in strongly interacting light-matter systems in cavities
Authors: Tutunnikov Ilia , Rokaj Vasil , Cao Jianshu , Sadeghpour H R
Published: December 2024

We propose leveraging strong and ultrastrong light-matter coupling to efficiently generate and exchange nonclassical light and quantum matter states. Two initial conditions are considered: (a) a displaced quadrature-squeezed matter state, and (b) a coherent state in a cavity. In both scenarios, polaritons mediate the dynamical generation and transfer of nonclassical states between light and matter. By monitoring the dynamics of both subsystems, we uncover the emergence of cavity-induced beatings in the collective matter oscillations. The beating period depends on the particle density through the vacuum Rabi splitting and peaks sharply under light-matter resonance conditions. For initial condition (a), nonclassicality is efficiently transferred from matter to photons under strong and ultrastrong coupling. However, for initial condition (b), nonclassical photonic states are generated only in the ultrastrong coupling regime due to the counter-rotating terms, highlighting the advantages of ultrastrong coupling. Furthermore, in the ultrastrong coupling regime, distinctive asymmetries relative to cavity detuning emerge in dynamical observables of both light and matter. The nonclassical photons can be extracted through a semi-transparent cavity mirror, while nonclassical matter states can be detected via time-resolved spectroscopy. This work highlights that polariton states may serve as a tool for dynamically generating and transferring nonclassical states, with potential applications in quantum technology.
Exploring blockchain: technological foundations, applications, and security concerns
Authors: Dutta Debarati , Priya G
Published: December 2024

Blockchain technology is increasingly capturing the interest and adoption of numerous enterprises globally. This paper offers an extensive analysis of blockchain technology, emphasizing its evolution, classifications, underlying technologies, consensus mechanisms, architectural frameworks, and layers. It further delineates a broad spectrum of blockchain applications spanning various sectors including stock trading, healthcare, insurance, digital identity verification, data management, the Internet of Things (IoT), supply chain logistics, electoral systems, and data storage. The inherent benefits of blockchain, including decentralization, anonymity, immutability, integrity, auditability, and transparency, are driving its integration across various industries. Despite these merits, blockchain faces certain impediments that hinder its widespread acceptance among the general populace. This study categorizes these impediments into two primary domains: security issues and blockchain-specific attacks, providing an exhaustive analysis of each. Distinct from other scholarly works that concentrate on security, IoT, or cryptocurrency, this document emphasizes blockchain technology’s state-of-the-art developments and broad adoption. It specifically emphasizes applications that extend beyond digital currencies. Conclusively, the paper explores prospective avenues for future research and developmental goals within the blockchain domain.
Annotating publicly-available samples and studies using interpretable modeling of unstructured metadata
Authors: Yuan Hao , Hicks Parker , Ahmadian Mansooreh , Johnson Kayla A , Valtadoros Lydia , Krishnan Arjun
Published: December 2024

Reusing massive collections of publicly available biomedical data can significantly impact knowledge discovery. However, these public samples and studies are typically described using unstructured plain text, hindering the findability and further reuse of the data. To combat this problem, we propose txt2onto 2.0, a general-purpose method based on natural language processing and machine learning for annotating biomedical unstructured metadata to controlled vocabularies of diseases and tissues. Compared to the previous version (txt2onto 1.0), which uses numerical embeddings as features, this new version uses words as features, resulting in improved interpretability and performance, especially when few positive training instances are available. Txt2onto 2.0 uses embeddings from a large language model during prediction to deal with unseen-yet-relevant words related to each disease and tissue term being predicted from the input text, thereby explaining the basis of every annotation. We demonstrate the generalizability of txt2onto 2.0 by accurately predicting disease annotations for studies from independent datasets, using proteomics and clinical trials as examples. Overall, our approach can annotate biomedical text regardless of experimental types or sources. Code, data, and trained models are available at https://github.com/krishnanlab/txt2onto2.0.
RiceSNP-ABST: a deep learning approach to identify abiotic stress-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms in rice
Authors: Lu Quan , Xu Jiajun , Zhang Renyi , Liu Hangcheng , Wang Meng , Liu Xiaoshuang , Yue Zhenyu , Gao Yujia
Published: December 2024

Given the adverse effects faced by rice due to abiotic stresses, the precise and rapid identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with abiotic stress traits (ABST-SNPs) in rice is crucial for developing resistant rice varieties. The scarcity of high-quality data related to abiotic stress in rice has hindered the development of computational models and constrained research efforts aimed at rice improvement and breeding. Genome-wide association studies provide a better statistical power to consider ABST-SNPs in rice. Meanwhile, deep learning methods have shown their capability in predicting disease- or phenotype-associated loci, but have primarily focused on human species. Therefore, developing predictive models for identifying ABST-SNPs in rice is both urgent and valuable. In this paper, a model called RiceSNP-ABST is proposed for predicting ABST-SNPs in rice. Firstly, six training datasets were generated using a novel strategy for negative sample construction. Secondly, four feature encoding methods were proposed based on DNA sequence fragments, followed by feature selection. Finally, convolutional neural networks with residual connections were used to determine whether the sequences contained rice ABST-SNPs. RiceSNP-ABST outperformed traditional machine learning and state-of-the-art methods on the benchmark dataset and demonstrated consistent generalization on an independent dataset and cross-species datasets. Notably, multi-granularity causal structure learning was employed to elucidate the relationships among DNA structural features, aiming to identify key genetic variants more effectively. The web-based tool for the RiceSNP-ABST can be accessed at http://rice-snp-abst.aielab.cc.
Amyloidosis of the tongue in multiple myeloma
Authors: Fu Yong-Wei
Published: December 2024

An 87-year-old woman with a history of anaemia and renal failure presented with slow-growing, irregular and multilobulated pigmented papules on the bilateral sides of her tongue. The pigment network on the lower lip was of nonhomogeneous brown-black colour.
The early-onset Alzheimer’s disease MRI signature: a replication and extension analysis in early-stage AD
Authors: Mehta Rashi I , Keith Cierra M , Teixeira Camila Vieira Ligo , Worhunsky Patrick D , Phelps Holly E , Ward Melanie , Miller Mark , Navia R Osvaldo , Pockl Stephanie , Rajabalee Nafiisah , Coleman Michelle M , D’Haese Pierre-François , Rezai Ali R , Wilhelmsen Kirk C , Haut Marc W
Published: December 2024

Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease (EOAD) is less investigated than the more common late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) despite its more aggressive course. A cortical signature of EOAD was recently proposed and may facilitate EOAD investigation. Here, we aimed to validate this proposed MRI biomarker of EOAD neurodegeneration in an Appalachian clinical cohort. We also compared differences in EOAD signature atrophy in participants with biomarker-positive EOAD, LOAD, early-onset non-AD pathologies, and cognitively normal individuals. Cortical thinning was reliably detected in eight of nine signature areas of persons with EOAD relative to cognitively normal individuals despite very early disease stage. Additionally, individuals with EOAD showed thinner cortex in most signature regions relative to those with early-onset non-AD pathologies. EOAD and LOAD showed similar cortical atrophy within most EOAD signature regions. Whole-brain vertex-wise cortical analyses supported these findings. Furthermore, signature cortical atrophy showed expected relationships with measures of global and specific cognitive and functional status. This investigation further validates and expands upon the recently defined EOAD signature and suggests its robustness within a rural population, even at early disease stage. Larger scale and longitudinal studies employing this marker of EOAD neurodegeneration are needed to further understand clinical effects and appropriate management of persons with EOAD.
Greater Fatigue and Reduced Neurocognitive Speed With Symptomatic Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Bonhomme Brittaney , Nandi Neilanjan , Berera Shivali , Lee Helen , Leung Galen , Tse Chung Sang , Weiss Alexandra , Nessel Lisa , Ren Yue , Li Hongzhe , Aberra Faten N , Lewis James D
Published: December 2024

Background

While patients with Crohn’s disease commonly report fatigue, an association of Crohn’s disease with mild neurocognitive impairment has also been suggested. This study investigated the relationship between Crohn’s disease activity, fatigue, and neurocognitive functioning.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, adults with Crohn’s disease (n = 25) and healthy controls (n = 26) completed the PROMIS Fatigue 7a form and Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory and neurocognitive testing across 6 domains. Symptomatic and endoscopic remission were assessed with a short Crohn’s Disease Activity Index and Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn’s Disease. Linear regression adjusting for age and sex was used to compare fatigue and neurocognition among patients with Crohn’s disease versus controls and those with active Crohn’s disease versus those in remission.

Results

Compared to controls, adults with Crohn’s disease reported greater overall and domain-specific fatigue (general, physical, and mental) (P < .05 for all comparisons). Patients in symptomatic remission had significantly less fatigue (P < .05). No differences were found in neurocognitive accuracy or speed between Crohn’s disease and controls. Disease activity was not associated with accuracy on neurocognitive testing; however, patients with symptomatic Crohn’s disease had longer correct response times for social cognition and episodic memory compared to asymptomatic patients (P < .05). Endoscopic disease activity was associated with longer correct response times for tasks linked to social cognition, episodic memory, and complex cognition (P < .05). These differences persisted after adjusting for fatigue.

Conclusions

Patients with symptomatic Crohn’s disease experience greater fatigue and have slower response times on neurocognitive testing. However, fatigue does not appear to mediate the slower response times.
Growth of the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly and the role of for-profit programs
Authors: Miller Katherine E M , Gupta Ravi , Polsky Daniel
Published: December 2024

The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a managed care program financed by capitated government payments that primarily serves adults aged 55 or older requiring nursing home level of care who are dual-eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. While PACE programs have historically been nonprofit entities, in 2016, a regulation change allowed for-profit PACE programs to help expand the program. We describe PACE program growth from 2010 to 2022. Both the number of PACE programs and enrollees grew from 2010 to 2022. Yet, after allowing for-profits to enter the market, the enrollment rate of growth slowed overall (13.4% vs 7.0%), though for-profit program enrollment grew more rapidly compared to nonprofit programs (13.2% vs 5.7%). Entry of new programs drove for-profit growth primarily. Despite the growth of for-profit programs, most enrollees continued to receive care from nonprofit programs (78%) by 2022. Allowing for-profit programs did not increase PACE enrollment rates overall. Given emerging evidence that for-profit ownership in other health care sectors may reduce quality compared to nonprofits, policymakers should carefully monitor care quality and patient outcomes in PACE as for-profit entities increase.
Staff Safety and Experiences with Electronic Safety Devices among a Sample of Veterans Affairs Homeless Service Providers
Authors: Edwards-Stewart Amanda , Anderson Amanda Joy , Tsai Jack
Published: December 2024

The current survey examined Veterans Affairs (VA) homeless service providers’ experiences with electronic personal protective safety devices (EPPSDs). The survey was completed by 153 homeless service providers based at VA medical centers in New York, New Jersey, and Florida. The survey asked about feelings of safety while performing work duties, safety incidents, use of EPPSDs, and experiences with EPPSDs. Forty-three percent of respondents reported using an EPPSD at work. Respondents who used an EPPSD described using the technology primarily to check in while working in the community. Overall, feelings of safety and confidence in the ability to call for help while at work did not differ between providers who used an EPPSD and those who did not. These findings need replication in a larger sample. EPPSDs may not increase feelings of safety among homeless service providers. VA homeless service providers generally reported feeling safe at work. Feelings of safety were not significantly associated with using an electronic safety device.
Facilitating Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Large-Scale Research Networks: Tackling Uncertainties in Knowledge Building and the Designing of Robotic Systems in Healthcare
Authors: Paluch Richard , Weiler Tim , Nieder Aaron , Fricke Christa , Meyer Sibylle , Randall David , Müller Claudia
Published: December 2024

Robots used for care purposes have been the subject of considerable research effort, often interdisciplinary. However, our work has shown that there are frequently difficulties in working together to produce interdisciplinary knowledge on human–robot and human–computer interaction. We describe an initiative to enable participants within and across research projects to improve collaboration. Mandated by the funding body, we developed the Research Practice Workshop tool to bring together 10 projects and more than 100 people from science, technology and healthcare in a large-scale funding stream. Our tool creates space for interdisciplinary participation, despite its top-down project structure. We present data from seven Research Practice Workshops that illustrate how knowledge sharing worked and what challenges we faced in accordance with our iterative and participatory approach. The aim is to show how networks of practice transfer knowledge, facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation and create imaginaries of robotics for care. The Research Practice Workshops are a valuable tool for creating shared visions and practical implementations with all stakeholders in a democratic process. This demonstrates how design knowledge can become relevant in interdisciplinary collaboration and how Research Practice Workshops can support large scale research networks. Ultimately, our paper contributes both to best practices in heterodox scientific project management and to an understanding of how disciplinary perspectives mediate research.
Optimal dosage regimens of cefiderocol administered by short, prolonged or continuous infusion: a PK/PD simulation study
Authors: Goutelle Sylvain , Ammour Najib , Ferry Tristan , Schramm Frédéric , Lepeule Raphael , Friggeri Arnaud
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives

Cefiderocol approved dosages are based on a prolonged infusion (PI) of 3 h that may not be adequate in all settings The objective of this study was to identify alternative cefiderocol dosage regimens based on short infusion (SI) or continuous infusion (CI).

Methods

We performed 1000-patient pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) simulations based on a reference population model. Drug penetration into the epithelial lining fluid (ELF) was considered for pneumonia. For various stages of creatinine clearance (CLCR), we simulated the recommended PI as well as various SI (1 h-infusion) and CI regimens. The PK/PD targets were set at 75% or 100% of the dosing interval during which the free concentration of cefiderocol was above the MIC (fT > MIC) in plasma and ELF. The PTAs were computed considering the cefiderocol MIC breakpoint (2 mg/L).

Results

In plasma, all recommended PI regimens were associated with a PTA  ≥ 90%. Some SI regimens also showed acceptable PTAs. CI regimens were associated with high PTAs, even for doses as low as 2 g over 24 h and in patients with high CLCR. Recommended dosages failed to achieve acceptable PTAs in ELF for the 100% fT > MIC target in patients with CLCR  ≥ 90 mL/min. CI regimens showed the highest PTAs for the high target, but high doses of 6 to 8 g over 24 h were required in patients with CLCR  ≥ 90 mL/min.

Conclusions

We identified SI and CI regimens of cefiderocol that may be useful alternatives to the PI regimens in some patients. Continuous administration of cefiderocol may be especially relevant for patients with pneumonia. However, further clinical evaluation is necessary.
Embracing native diversity to enhance the maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II in maize
Authors: Urzinger Sebastian , Avramova Viktoriya , Frey Monika , Urbany Claude , Scheuermann Daniela , Presterl Thomas , Reuscher Stefan , Ernst Karin , Mayer Manfred , Marcon Caroline , Hochholdinger Frank , Brajkovic Sarah , Ordas Bernardo , Westhoff Peter , Ouzunova Milena , Schön Chris-Carolin
Published: December 2024

The sustainability of maize cultivation would benefit tremendously from early sowing, but is hampered by low temperatures during early development in temperate climates. We show that allelic variation within the gene encoding subunit M of the NADH-dehydrogenase-like (NDH) complex (ndhm1) in a European maize landrace affects several quantitative traits that are relevant during early development in cold climates through NDH-mediated cyclic electron transport around photosystem I, a process crucial for photosynthesis and photoprotection. Beginning with a genome-wide association study for maximum potential quantum yield of photosystem II in dark-adapted leaves (Fv/Fm), we capitalized on the large phenotypic effects of a hAT transposon insertion in ndhm1 on multiple quantitative traits (early plant height [EPH], Fv/Fm, chlorophyll content, and cold tolerance) caused by the reduced protein levels of NDHM and associated NDH components. Analysis of the ndhm1 native allelic series revealed a rare allele of ndhm1 that is associated with small albeit significant improvements of Fv/Fm, photosystem II efficiency in light-adapted leaves (ΦPSII), and EPH compared with common alleles. Our work showcases the extraction of favorable alleles from locally adapted landraces, offering an efficient strategy for broadening the genetic variation of elite germplasm by breeding or genome editing.
Genetic variation in Arabidopsis thaliana reveals the existence of natural heat resilience factors for meiosis
Authors: Zhao (赵) Jiayi (嘉怡) , Fu Huiqi , Wang Zhengze , Zhang Min , Liang Yaoqiong , Cui Xueying , Pan Wenjing , Ren Ziming , Wu Zhihua , Zhang Yujie , Gui Xin , Huo Li , Lei Xiaoning , Wang Chong , Schnittger Arp , Pawlowski Wojciech P , Liu Bing
Published: December 2024

Heat interferes with multiple meiotic processes, leading to genome instability and sterility in flowering plants, including many crops. Despite its importance for food security, the mechanisms underlying heat tolerance of meiosis are poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed different meiotic processes in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) accessions Col and Ler, their F1 hybrids, and the F2 offspring under heat stress (37 °C). At 37 °C, Col exhibits significantly reduced formation of double-strand breaks and completely abolished homolog pairing, synapsis, and crossover (CO) formation. Strikingly, Ler and Col/Ler hybrids exhibit normal CO formation and show mildly impacted homolog pairing and synapsis. Interestingly, only 10% to 20% of F2 offspring behave as Ler, revealing that heat tolerance of meiotic recombination in Arabidopsis is genetically controlled by several loci. Moreover, F2 offspring show defects in chromosome morphology and integrity and sister chromatid segregation, the levels of which exceed those in either inbreds or hybrids, thus implying a transgressive effect on heat tolerance of meiosis. Furthermore, correlation and cytogenetic analyses suggest that homolog pairing and synapsis have an impact on heat tolerance of chromosome morphology and stability at postrecombination stages. This study reveals natural heat resilience factors for meiosis in Arabidopsis, which have the great potential to be exploited in breeding programs.
An immunohistochemical evaluation of fast twitch muscle formation induced by repeated administration of flavan 3‐ols in mice
Authors: Yoshida Yamato , Shimizu Kenta , Nakamura Hitomi , Fujii Yasuyuki , Fritsch Tilman , Abdelhameed Ali , Calabrese Vittorio , Osakabe Naomi
Published: December 2024

Flavan‐3‐ols (FL) are poorly bioavailable astringent polyphenols that induce hyperactivation of the sympathetic nervous system. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of repeated oral administration of FL on mice hindlimb skeletal muscle using immunohistochemical techniques. C57BL/6J male mice were orally administered 50 mg/kg of FL for a period of 2 weeks, and bromideoxyuridine (BrdU) was administered intraperitoneally 3 days prior to the dissection. The soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) were excised and prepared for frozen sections. Myosin heavy chain (MHC) antibodies were used to classify muscle types, in addition, muscle cross‐sectional areas (CSA) were measured. We observed a shift in the peak of CSA in the soleus muscle and to a larger extent in the EDL. In addition, a distinct shift toward fast muscle was detected, documented by a reduction in type I and an increase in type IIb in the soleus muscle, whereas in the EDL, we observed a decline in type IIa and an expansion in type IIb. Incorporation of BrdU into cells was significantly increased in all skeletal muscles, with a significant increase in cells co‐expressing pair box 7 (Pax7), a marker of differentiation, as observed in the EDL. Given the evidence that β2‐adrenergic receptors in skeletal muscles regulate differentiation and size, we measured plasma catecholamine (CA) concentrations following a single differentiation of FL. A single oral dose of FL was observed to significantly increase plasma CA. These findings indicate that catecholamines secreted into the bloodstream from the adrenal gland following oral administration of FL may influence skeletal muscle size and type via β2‐receptors.
The inhibitory impact of various total body irradiation doses on the hematopoietic system of mice
Authors: Xu Hui , Zhang Jinwang , Zhang Hexiao , Yang Ming , Zhang Wenshan , Wang Wei , Wang Chaoqun , Zhang Yiran , Jiao Zhongxiang , Gao Yingdai , Li Yinghui
Published: December 2024

Irradiation with X-rays has been widely utilized in the clinical treatment of solid tumors and certain hematopoietic malignancies. However, this method fails to completely distinguish between malignant and normal cells. Prolonged or repeated exposure to radiation, whether due to occupational hazards or therapeutical interventions, can cause damage to normal tissues, particularly impacting the hematopoietic system. Therefore, it is important to investigate the effects of total body irradiation on the hematopoietic system of mice and to compare the inhibitory effects of various doses of irradiation on this system. In this study, we primarily employed flow cytometry to analyze mature lineage cells in the peripheral blood, as well as immature hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) in the bone marrow and spleen. Additionally, we evaluated the multilineage differentiation capacity of HSPCs through colony-forming cell assays. Our results indicated that peripheral B and T cells demonstrated increased sensitivity to irradiation, with significant cell death observed 1-day post-irradiation. Common lymphoid progenitor cells exhibited greater radiotolerance compared to other progenitor cell types, enabling them to maintain a certain population even at elevated doses. Moreover, notable differences were observed between intramedullary and extramedullary hematopoietic stem cells and common lymphoid progenitor cells regarding the extent of damage and recovery rate following irradiation. The multilineage differentiation capacity of HSPCs was also compromised during radiation exposure. In conclusion, different types of mature blood cells, along with immature HSPCs, exhibited varying degrees of sensitivity and tolerance to irradiation, resulting in distinct alterations in cell percentages and numbers.
Genetic and Clinical-epidemiologic Profile of hRSV in Pediatric Patients in Southern Brazil: A Four-year Hospital Surveillance Study
Authors: Raboni Sonia Mara , Giamberardino Heloisa I. G. , Santos Jucelia S. , Debur Maria do Carmo
Published: December 2024

Background:

Respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) infections primarily cause acute respiratory illness and pediatric hospitalizations. We examined the hRSV molecular epidemiology in a pediatric cohort over a 4-year period and described the interrelationship with clinical data.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2014 to 2017 on children with acute respiratory illness. Respiratory viruses were detected using a multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction and molecular typing was performed by nucleotide sequencing.

Results:

Three hundred fifty-three children with hRSV were included; 207 (36%) samples were submitted to partial G gene sequencing. A total of 58.3% (n = 120) were males, the median age was 2.3 months (interquartile range 1–4), and 36.4% (n = 75) of the children required intensive care unit assistance. Coinfection was detected in 27 (5.7%) children, mainly hRSV and rhinovirus (14.2%). A total of 95.6% of patients had no comorbidities, and prematurity (4.4%) was more frequent among those with comorbidities. hRSV-B was detected in 109 patients (53%) and hRSV-A in 98 patients (47%), with changes in incidence over the period. All the hRSV-A sequences were classified as ON1-like, with genetic lineage GA2.3.5 forming distinct clusters. hRSV-B sequences were identified as BA-like, comprising 3 genetic lineages, GB5.0.2, GB5.0.4a and GB5.0.5a, with variation over time, and a higher severity was associated with hRSV type B GB5.0.2 and GB5.0.4a lineages compared with the GB5.0.5a.

Conclusions:

Both hRSV subtypes showed similar severity and were not linked to comorbidities. Severe cases were more common in young patients and those infected with GB5.0.2 and GB5.0.4a genotypes. Understanding hRSV’s molecular evolution is crucial for tracking new variants and assessing their impact on the effectiveness of emerging vaccines and monoclonal antibodies.
Predicting early recurrence in locally advanced gastric cancer after gastrectomy using CT-based deep learning model: a multicenter study
Authors: Guo Xinyu , Chen Mingzhen , Zhou Lingling , Zhu Lingyi , Liu Shuang , Zheng Liyun , Chen Yongjun , Li Qiang , Xia Shuiwei , Lu Chenying , Chen Minjiang , Chen Feng , Ji Jiansong
Published: December 2024

Background:

Early recurrence in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC) portends aggressive biological characteristics and a dismal prognosis. Predicting early recurrence may help determine treatment strategies for LAGC. The goal is to develop a deep learning model for early recurrence prediction (DLER) based on preoperative multiphase computed tomography (CT) images and to further explore the underlying biological basis of the proposed model.

Materials and methods:

In this retrospective study, 620 LAGC patients from January 2015 to March 2023 were included in three medical centers and The Cancer Image Archive (TCIA). The DLER model was developed using DenseNet169 and multiphase 2.5D CT images, and then crucial clinical factors of early recurrence were integrated into the multilayer perceptron (MLP) classifier model (DLERMLP). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were applied to measure the performance of different models. The log-rank test was used to analyze survival outcomes. The genetic analysis was performed using RNA-sequencing data from TCIA.

Results:

Using the MLP classifier combined with clinical factors, DLERMLP showed higher performance than DLER and clinical models in predicting early recurrence in the internal validation set (AUC: 0.891 vs. 0.797, 0.752) and two external test sets: test set 1 (0.814 vs. 0.666, 0.808) and test set 2 (0.834 vs. 0.756, 0.766). Early recurrence-free survival, disease-free survival, and overall survival can be stratified using the DLERMLP (all P < 0.001). High DLERMLP score is associated with upregulated tumor proliferation pathways (WNT, MYC, and KRAS signaling) and immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment.

Conclusion:

The DLERMLP based on CT images was able to predict early recurrence of patients with LAGC and served as a useful tool for optimizing treatment strategies and monitoring.
Trends, age shifts, and potential delayed peaks post-pandemic of early-onset brain and central nervous system cancers in individuals aged 20–49: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Teng Haibo , Yan Ouying , Xiao Chaoxin , Wang Xin , Liu Zhiyong , Xu Jianguo
Published: December 2024

Background:

Central nervous system (CNS) cancers are highly lethal and increasingly affect younger populations aged 20–49, posing significant challenges to global healthcare systems. Current research on early-onset CNS cancer trends is limited and outdated, with uncertain impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explores the epidemiology of early-onset CNS cancer and the pandemic’s effects.

Methods:

We analyzed incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rates for early-onset CNS cancer (age 20–49) from 2019 to 2021 using GBD 2021 data. The global data were categorized into five regions based on the Socio-Demographic Index (SDI), reflecting income, education, and fertility rates. Trends over the past 30 years were examined using estimated annual percentage change (EAPC), average annual percentage change (AAPC), and joinpoint analysis, with a focus on 2019–2021. The Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model predicted post-pandemic impacts on CNS cancer metrics.

Results:

In 2021, global cases of early-onset CNS cancer rose to 50 201.7 (95% UI, 42 864.1–58 187.5), with deaths increasing to 25 023.1 (95% UI, 20 973.8–29 670.8) and DALYs reaching 1 483 019.4 (95% UI, 1 240 923.4–1 756 043.3). The incidence rate increased to 2.1 (95% UI, 1.8–2.5), while mortality rates remained stable at 1.1 (95% UI, 0.9–1.2), and DALY rates decreased to 62.6 (95% UI, 52.4–74.1). Over the past two decades, the incidence of early-onset CNS cancer has steadily increased, particularly in regions with a high SDI and in emerging economies. Although there was a decline in early-onset CNS cancer-related metrics during the pandemic, it is anticipated that global incidence rates will peak between 2035 and 2040.

Conclusion:

This study provides a comprehensive overview of early-onset CNS cancer trends. Despite stable mortality rates, the increasing incidence suggests a growing global burden, with a delayed peak expected due to the pandemic. These findings highlight the need for preventive and control policies targeting early-onset CNS cancer.
Comparison of cerebral technetium-99m-ethyl cysteinate dimer perfusion in patients with dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia
Authors: Toyli Aili , Hung Guang-Uei , Zhao Chen , Sha Qiuying , Chiu Pai-Yi , Zhou Weihua
Published: December 2024

Objective

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD) are closely related neurodegenerative conditions within the Lewy body spectrum. The relationship between DLB and PDD remains debated, with ongoing discussion about whether they are distinct diseases or different manifestations of the same disorder. This study aimed to identify differences in cerebral perfusion patterns between DLB and PDD patients.

Methods

Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) ethyl cysteinate dimer (ECD) imaging was performed on patients diagnosed with DLB (n = 46) and PDD (n = 30). The data were acquired by two SPECT/computed tomography systems from two affiliated centers and were retrospectively recruited under the local ethics approval. Relative tracer uptake levels were calculated across 47 automatically determined regions of interest and 240 subregions. A two-sided Welch’s t-test was employed to evaluate mean perfusion differences, with results further confirmed through a voxel-wise t-test mapping. The Benjamini–Hochberg procedure was used to adjust P-values for multiple comparisons.

Results

The greatest difference in perfusion was in the left associative visual cortex in planes 34 and 36 and the right primary visual cortex in plane 34, with lower mean perfusion observed in PDD patients than those with DLB (P = 0.005).

Conclusion

No statistically significant differences in ECD perfusion were found between DLB and PDD patients. The greatest difference was in the visual cortices, where PDD patients suffered a greater loss of perfusion.
Global Research Progress on Radiofrequency Ablation in Cardiology
Authors: Elendu Chukwuka , Ogwu Nkechi P. , Okatta Alexander U. , Omeludike Eunice K. , Ogelle Emmanuel C. , Obidigbo Babajide T. , Joseph Mary C. , Osamuyi Emmanuella I , Ogidan Afeez O. , Jingwa Klein A. , Ottun Abdul-Rahaman A , Eldorghamy Mariam M.F. , Gurbanova Tuvakbibi , Soltan Fathy E.A.E. , Bhadana Umesh , Nasre Vaibhav S. , Yadav Cyrus P. , Jaiswal Rishabh
Published: December 2024

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has become a cornerstone in treating cardiac arrhythmias, offering a minimally invasive approach to managing conditions such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and other rhythm disorders. The historical evolution of RFA, from its early inception to its current state, underscores the technological advancements that have significantly enhanced its efficacy and safety. Global trends indicate a steady increase in the adoption of RFA, with notable research contributions from North America, Europe, and Asia. Comparative studies reveal outcome variability driven by differences in patient populations, procedural techniques, and healthcare infrastructures. Despite its success, RFA faces challenges, including complications related to the procedure, patient selection, and long-term efficacy. Emerging technologies, such as integrating artificial intelligence and enhanced imaging modalities, hold promise for overcoming these barriers and further refining the procedure. Gaps in current research are identified, particularly in understanding the long-term outcomes of RFA and its application in complex arrhythmias. The critical role of RFA in modern cardiology is emphasized, along with the potential for future innovations that could expand its therapeutic utility. This synthesis of the latest evidence provides valuable insights for optimizing the use of RFA in managing cardiac arrhythmias.
Intensive Asthma Therapy and Intravenous Magnesium Sulfate in the Emergency Department Management of Pediatric Asthma
Authors: Chiappetta Melissa , Merolla David M. , Spencer Priya , DeLaroche Amy M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

The aim of the stud is to determine whether intravenous magnesium sulfate (IVMg) is associated with hospitalization and time to albuterol every 4 hours in a cohort of children who received intensive asthma therapy (IAT) in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included children 2–18 years who received IAT, defined as 3 bronchodilators and corticosteroids within 60 minutes of ED triage, with or without IVMg in the ED between 2019 and 2021. Primary outcome was hospitalization and among hospitalized children, secondary outcome was time to albuterol every 4 hours. Additional secondary outcomes included adjuvant medications, respiratory support, and length of stay.

Results

Among 851 patient encounters, 61% (n = 516) received IAT with IVMg in the ED and most patients were hospitalized (n = 565, 66%). Patients who received IVMg had increased odds of hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 25.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 14.49–42.52, P < 0.001) and a longer time to albuterol every 4 hours (aOR 13.8, 95% CI 9.61–17.75, P < 0.001), even when controlling for demographic and clinical markers of severe asthma. In the adjusted analysis, patients who received IAT with IVMg had increased odds of adjuvant medications in the ED (aOR 7.3, 95% CI 2.97–17.95, P < 0.001) and respiratory support in the ED (aOR 3.6, 95% CI 2.22–5.85, P < 0.001) and the inpatient setting (aOR 3.9, 95% CI 1.87–7.97, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Children who received IAT and IVMg in the ED for management of an acute asthma exacerbation had significantly higher odds of hospitalization without any improvement in the time to albuterol every 4 hours for admitted patients. The results of this observational study underscore the need for randomized controlled trials to determine the efficacy of IVMg for acute pediatric asthma.
Angiographic Observation of the Perforators of Thoracodorsal Artery and Application of the Perforator Flaps in Repairing Adjacent Wounds
Authors: Wang Qian , Li Cheng-Long , Chen Yong , Wang Min , Zou Ming-Li , Yuan Si-Ming , Zhong Hai-Yan
Published: December 2024

Objective:

The thoracodorsal artery perforator flap has not been widely used in clinical practice partly due to a lack of imaging evidence. The authors aim to investigate the types of thoracic dorsal artery perforators through angiography and provide our experiences in the utilization of thoracic dorsal artery perforator flaps to repair adjacent wounds.

Methods:

This study was divided into two parts. The first part was an angiography of the thoracodorsal artery in 12 patients based on DSA and CTA images from January 2015 to December 2023. The branches and perforators of the thoracodorsal artery were observed and classified. The second part study, between January 2019 and December 2023, illustrated the clinical application of thoracodorsal artery perforator flap in repairing neighboring wounds in 10 cases where a small area of muscular vascular pedicle was preserved with oblique branch of thoracodorsal artery trunk dissected to extend the pedicle. The donor area of the flap was closed primarily. The patients were followed up to evaluate the functional recovery of the shoulder joint after operation.

Results:

The perforators of thoracodorsal artery were classified into 2 types based on the number and diameter: type I, the dominant perforating type (1–2 dominant perforators plus varying numbers of tiny perforators); and type II, the capillary perforating type (a larger number of tiny perforators without dominant perforators). The diameter of the dominant perforator is >0.5 mm, while the diameter of the capillary perforators is <0.5 mm. In the first part of the study, there were 8 cases of dominant perforating type and 4 cases of capillary perforating type. In the second part of the study, 10 cases of thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps were applied to repair the chest wall (3 cases), the back (1 case), the axilla (2 cases), the shoulder (2 cases) and the upper arm (2 cases). All the flaps fully survived with no complications, such as hematoma and seroma in the donor area. The function of the shoulder joint was not affected in these patients.

Conclusions:

The angiography showed that thoracodorsal artery perforators could be categorized into 2 types, namely the dominant perforators and capillary perforators. The thoracodorsal artery perforator flap with a small area of muscular vascular pedicle can be harvested with blood supply from both types of perforators. With reliable blood supply, flexible selection of tissue volume and minimal muscle injury, it becomes a good choice for repairing wounds on the thoracic-dorsal-shoulder area.
How to NAPS: A Discussion of the Safety and Implementation of a Nurse Administered Propofol Sedation (NAPS) Program
Authors: Roe Frances R.
Published: December 2024

Anesthesia shortages impact patient accessibility to endoscopy procedures. The administration of midazolam and fentanyl by a nurse is an accepted practice of delivering procedural sedation, though there is still controversy around the safety of a nurse administered propofol sedation (NAPS) program. Applicable professional organizations have provided statements supporting NAPS by a trained and competent nurse under the direction of an appropriately credentialed proceduralist. Research demonstrates the safety of NAPS in comparison to procedural sedation provided by anesthesia personnel or administration of midazolam and fentanyl by a nurse. Research shows that patients, providers, and health care organizations can see procedural and financial benefit of implementing a NAPS program. An outline of implementation and development of a NAPS program is presented covering equipment, supplies, resources, provider credentialing, nurse education and training requirements, patient eligibility criteria, propofol administration order sets, and a quality assurance program.
The efficacy of coagulation factor concentrates in the management of patients with trauma-induced coagulopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Itagaki Yuki , Hayakawa Mineji , Takahashi Yuki , Kushimoto Shigeki , Sakamoto Yuichiro , Seki Yoshinobu , Okamoto Kohji
Published: December 2024

Background

Death in the early phase of trauma is primarily attributable to uncontrolled bleeding exacerbated by trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC). A comprehensive synthesis of the available evidence on interventions for TIC is needed.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of blood component products and tranexamic acid administrations for severe trauma patients with TIC. We included randomized and non-randomized controlled trials. We included studies with patients who required transfusion with any coagulopathy associated with trauma and a detailed definition. The intervention was administration of blood component products and tranexamic acid. The primary outcome of the study was all-cause mortality and transfusion quantity.

Results

Four randomized controlled trials and seven observational studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. In this study, Fibrinogen concentrate (FC), Prothrombin coagulation cofactor (PCC), and Combination administrations of FC and PCC (FC + PCC) administration did not significantly reduce mortality rates. FC, PCC, and FC + PCC administrations significantly reduced RBC transfusions after admission. In addition, PCC administration reduced FFP transfusions during hospital admission. The incidence of thrombotic events was not significantly higher in the FC + PCC, PCC, and rFVIIa groups. Although statistically nonsignificant, multiple organ failure was lower in the FC and FC + PCC groups.

Conclusions

FC and PCC administrations did not significantly reduce mortality. However, FC, PCC, and FC + PCC reduced transfusion rates and complications in patients with coagulopathy-associated trauma. However, the definition of TIC is quite heterogeneous. Thus, the definition of TIC should be defined universally. Furthermore, due to the lack of high certainty of evidence, further well-constructed trials are warranted to investigate the efficacy of blood component products, specifically FC and PCC supplementation for TIC.