bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hybrid Biologically-Inspired Optimization Algorithm for Data Gathering in IoT Sensor Networks
Authors: Kponhinto Gérard , Khemiri-Kallel Sondès , Abba Ari Ado Adamou , Gueroui Abdelhak Mourad , Thiare Ousmane , Hwang Junseok
Published: January 2025

The wireless sensor networks are autonomous Ad hoc Networks that form the backbone of IoT technology. Their vital role is to collect data from their physical environments and transfer these data to the Base Station (BS). This task implies high energy consumption when a suitable data routing policy is not applied. Then, the data collection method determines the efficiency of WSNs. Moreover, the IoT-based applications that require the mobility of the IoT sensor nodes introduce a new challenge regarding network connectivity. The IoT sensor node’s mobility leads to regular changes in the network topology, resulting in high packet loss during communication. The management of network energy use in order to prolong the battery life of IoT sensor nodes is a crucial issue, as IoT sensor nodes possess limited battery capacity. This paper addresses these issues by proposing an efficient Hybrid Biologically-Inspired Optimization Algorithm, named HBIP, for Data Gathering in IoT Sensor Networks. The flagship idea of the HBIP algorithm is to incorporate the swarming stage of the Bacterial Foraging Optimization (BFO) into the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) Optimization’s exploitation phase. Simulation results show that the HBIP protocol outperforms the LEACH protocol and ABC and BFO metaheuristics regarding network energy consumption, lifetime, and data packets received at the BS. In practice, we demonstrated that the HBIP protocol increases the data collection by

$$84.40\%$$

84.40
%

over LEACH,

$$19.43\%$$

19.43
%

over BFO, and

$$7.26\%$$

7.26
%

over ABC in the network scenario considered. Further on, we extend the study of the HBIP algorithm on Mobile IoT Sensor Networks by proposing a Multi-Objective Optimization-based Data Gathering Protocol (MOO-DGP). The MOO-DGP protocol employs the HBIP algorithm to determine the best solution that balances Velocity, Cluster Stability, Link Quality, and Energy Consumption. An extensive evaluation of the MOO-DGP protocol shows it outperforms the existing Mobility-Based Clustering (MBC) protocol regarding effective data packet delivery rate, average control overhead, network lifespan, and energy consumption.
The role of MEGF10 in myoblast fusion and hypertrophic response to overload of skeletal muscle
Authors: Richardson Louise , Hughes Ruth , Johnson Colin A. , Egginton Stuart , Peckham Michelle
Published: January 2025

Biallelic mutations in multiple EGF domain protein 10 (MEGF10) gene cause EMARDD (early myopathy, areflexia, respiratory distress and dysphagia) in humans, a severe recessive myopathy, associated with reduced numbers of PAX7 positive satellite cells. To better understand the role of MEGF10 in satellite cells, we overexpressed human MEGF10 in mouse H-2k

b
-tsA58 myoblasts and found that it inhibited fusion. Addition of purified extracellular domains of human MEGF10, with (ECD) or without (EGF) the N-terminal EMI domain to H-2k

b
-tsA58 myoblasts, showed that the ECD was more effective at reducing myoblast adhesion and fusion by day 7 of differentiation, yet promoted adhesion of myoblasts to non-adhesive surfaces, highlighting the importance of the EMI domain in these behaviours. We additionally tested the role of Megf10 in vivo using transgenic mice with reduced (Megf10
+/−) or no (Megf10
−/−) Megf10. We found that the extensor digitorum longus muscle had fewer anti-Pax7 stained cell nuclei and was less able to undergo hypertrophy in response to muscle overload concomitant with a lower level of satellite cell activation. Taken together, our data suggest that MEGF10 may promote satellite cell adhesion and survival and prevent premature fusion helping to explain its role in EMARDD.
Lactulose use among patients with alcohol-related liver cirrhosis as a surrogate marker of hepatic encephalopathy: prevalence and association with mortality - a Danish nationwide cohort study
Authors: Herting Emma Celia , Jensen Morten Daniel , Jepsen Peter
Published: January 2025

Background & aims: Hepatic encephalopathy (HE), one of the most serious prognostic factors for mortality in alcohol-related cirrhosis (ALD cirrhosis), is not recorded in Danish healthcare registries. However, treatment of HE with lactulose, the universal first-line treatment, can be identified through data on filled prescriptions. This study aimed to investigate if lactulose can be used as a surrogate marker of HE. Methods: We used Danish healthcare registries to establish a cohort of patients with ALD cirrhosis diagnosed in 2000–2018. Lactulose users were identified using data on filled prescriptions. We computed the prevalence and cumulative incidence of lactulose use, and then matched lactulose users with cohort members who were not using lactulose. This matched dataset was used to identify predictors of lactulose initiation, and to examine the association between lactulose use and all-cause mortality. Results: We included 23,089 patients, among whom we identified 4,789 first-time lactulose users. The prevalence of lactulose usage rose to 11% within the first 6 months after ALD diagnosis and reached 19% 5 years after inclusion. The 1-year cumulative incidence of lactulose use was 31%, and predictors of initiating lactulose use were history of severe liver disease (ascites, portal hypertension, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis or gastrointestinal bleeding) or hepatocellular carcinoma. Lactulose use was associated with higher mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 1.61 [95% confidence interval 1.53; 1.69]). Conclusions: Lactulose is used by 10–20% of patients with ALD cirrhosis, primarily those with severe cirrhosis, and lactulose users have a markedly higher mortality than nonusers. We conclude that lactulose use can be used to estimate the prevalence of HE and to reduce confounding from HE, but it should not be used as a surrogate for HE in studies with HE as an outcome.
Greenhouse gas emissions from dry season rice irrigation in Bangladesh
Authors: Maniruzzaman Md. , Biswas Jatish Chandra , Hossain Md. Belal , Mainuddin Mohammed , Roy Debjit , Yesmin Mst. Shetara , Kundu Palash Kumar , Haque Md. Mozammel
Published: January 2025

Pumping groundwater for irrigation in Bangladesh is a major energy-consuming process and mostly depends on diesel fuel, which is related to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. But that issue has not yet been addressed in Bangladesh. `In this study, we have estimated GHG emissions for dry season (DS) irrigated rice considering all irrigation devices with their lifting heads, area coverage, and water sources (surface and groundwater) and power sources (diesel and electricity) during 2019–2020. GHG emissions varied with locations, sources of irrigation, fuel and water sources used. Irrigation water driven GHG emission in Bangladesh is about 2.27 million tons (Mt) CO2e DS−1, which is about only 4% of agricultural sector GHG emission. Groundwater pumps contributed the lion shares (2.04 Mt CO2e DS−1), and surface water pumps contributed only 0.23 Mt CO2e DS−1. Based on the GHG emissions, Rajshahi Division is the main hotspot followed by Rangpur and Mymensingh Divisions, because of intensive groundwater used in these areas. Current deep tubewells (DTWs), shallow tubewells (STWs) and low lift pumps (LLPs) area coverage is about 19.2%, 56.8% and 24.0% of the total cultivable areas of the country; but it contributes about 49.1%, 40.6% and 10.3% of emitted GHG, respectively. The results revealed that withdrawal of groundwater is an important source of GHG emission. Therefore, expansion of surface water irrigation facilities with the adoption of different improved distribution systems, water and energy saving technologies like alternate wetting and drying practices, conservation agriculture along with water use-efficient varieties for rice cultivation can be promoted for reducing GHG emission.
Who climbs Mount Everest? Individual differences in achieving difficult goals
Authors: Waldenmeier Karla , Baumann Nicola
Published: January 2025

Who are the people that manage to achieve even their most difficult goals? According to Personality Systems Interactions (PSI) theory (Kuhl, 2000, A functional-design approach to motivation and self- regulation: The dynamics of personality systems interactions; Kuhl, 2001, Motivation und Persönlichkeit: Interaktionen psychischer systeme [Motivation and personality: Interactions of psychological systems]; Kuhl et al., 2021, The functional architecture of human motivation: Personality systems interactions theory), they are action-oriented individuals, who– contrary to state-oriented individuals– excel in self-regulation, effectively translating intentions into action. To investigate differences in goal achievement of action-state orientation, our study considered a theoretically important combination of constraints that has not been examined so far. In a longitudinal study (N = 199), we assessed participants’ self-generated goals for the upcoming weeks as well as the difficulty of these goals. After four weeks, we measured the achievement of these goals. We analyzed data using multi-level methods. Consistent with expectations, action versus state orientation moderated the relationship between goal difficulty and achievement, with action-oriented individuals achieving more difficult goals than state-oriented individuals. Our findings provide empirical support for a central theoretical assumption regarding goal achievement in action-state orientation.
Home-based mirror therapy in phantom limb pain treatment: the augmented humans framework
Authors: Marullo Giorgia , Innocente Chiara , Ulrich Luca , Lo Faro Antonio , Porcelli Annalisa , Ruggieri Rossella , Vecchio Bruna , Vezzetti Enrico
Published: January 2025

The “Augmented Humans” term refers to the opportunity to improve human possibilities by using innovative technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Extended Reality (XR). Digital therapies, particularly suitable for those treatments requiring multiple sessions, are increasingly being adopted for home-based treatment, enabling continuous monitoring and rehabilitation for patients, thus alleviating the burden on healthcare facilities by facilitating remote therapy sessions and follow-up visits. Among these, the Mirror Therapy (MT) for patients suffering from Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) could benefit greatly. This paper proposes a novel “Augmented Humans” framework for the treatment of PLP through home-based MT; the framework is designed to consider the activities carried on by the therapy center, the patient, and the system supporting the treatment. Moreover, an XR-based solution that integrates a Deep Learning (DL) approach has been developed to provide patients with a self-testing and self-assessment tool for conducting at-home rehabilitation sessions independently, even in the absence of physical medical staff. The DL algorithm enables real-time monitoring of rehabilitation exercises and automatic provision of personalized feedback on the gesture’s performance, supporting the progressive improvement of the patient’s movements and his ability to adhere to the treatment plan. The technical feasibility and usability of the proposed framework have been evaluated with 23 healthy subjects, highlighting an overall positive user experience. Remarkable results were obtained in terms of automatic gesture evaluation, with macro averaged accuracy and F1-score of 95%, paving the way for the adoption of the “Augmented Humans” approach in the healthcare domain.
Multidimensional fatigue and its impact on work productivity, mood and quality of life in long-term survivors following definitive intensity-modulated radiotherapy for oropharyngeal cancer: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Iyizoba-Ebozue Zsuzsanna , Nicklin Emma , Currie Stuart , Price James , Baldwin J. P. C. , Prestwich Robin , Brown Sarah , Hall Emma , Lilley John , Lowe Matthew , Thomson David J. , Slevin Finbar , Tyyger Marcus , Murray Louise , Boele Florien
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Radiotherapy (RT) for oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) can lead to late toxicity. Fatigue is a known debilitating issue for many cancer survivors, yet prevalence and severity of long-term fatigue in patients treated for OPC is unknown.

Method

As part of a mixed-methods study, fatigue in OPC patients ≥ 2 years post RT + / − chemotherapy was evaluated. Fatigue scores (multidimensional fatigue inventory; MFI) were compared to general population controls. Predictive sociodemographic/clinical factors of fatigue were investigated by multivariable linear regression. Associations between fatigue, health related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L), work (work productivity and activity impairment — WPAI), mood disturbance (Profile of Mood Scale — POMS) and RT dose were explored.

Results

In 349 patients treated for OPC with median follow-up time post-RT (+ / − chemo) of 6 years (IQR 4–8), > 20% reported severe fatigue in all domains. Scores were significantly worse in patients for mental (mean difference 1.2, 95% CI 0.6–1.8, p = < 0.001) and general fatigue (mean difference 0.8, 95% CI 0.1–1.3, p = 0.015) compared to controls. Age and co-morbidities were significant predictors of mental and general fatigue (p < 0.05). Worse fatigue was associated with worse quality of life, greater work productivity impairment and worse mood (r = − 0.604, 0.582 and 0.679, respectively, all p < 0.05). No correlation was found between fatigue and RT dose to the posterior fossa.

Conclusions

Mental and general fatigue remain significant issues in OPC patients several years after RT + / − chemotherapy.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Better monitoring of fatigue throughout follow-up care, and timely interventions could help improve patient functioning.
Does Nocturnal Blood Pressure Matter in Retinal Small Vessels? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Literature
Authors: Antza Christina , Palaska Smaro , Anyfanti Panagiota , Triantis Dimitris , Fyntrilakis Stavros , ZiyaSener Yusuf , Kotsis Vasilios
Published: January 2025

Purpose of the review

Τhe association between nocturnal blood pressure (BP) and alterations in the retinal microvasculature remains understudied, with few available studies to provide conflicting results. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether an association exists between retinal microvascular alterations and nocturnal BP patterns, determined by 24h ambulatory BP measurement.

Recent findings

Our search concluded to 1002 patients (6 studies). A total of 3 studies (411 patients) were enrolled in the meta-analysis. Central retinal arteriolar equivalent found to be not different between patients with and without dipping status (mean differences [MD]: -0.01; 95% CI: -0.23 to 0.20; I²=0%; P < 0.610). Regarding central retinal venular equivalent, dippers showed significantly lower values compared to non-dippers (MD: -0.25; 95% CI: -0.47 to -0.03; I²=0%; P < 0.024). For the comparison between nighttime and daytime BP regarding the damage in small retinal vessels, we identified only 5 studies. Due to different evaluated outcomes as well as due to the heterogeneity of outcomes and different grouping of patients based on different BP cut-off values, these results couldn’t be analyzed quantitatively.

In summary, this is the first effort to summarize evidence on the effects of day-to-night variation of BP on the retinal small vessels. According to the findings of the present systematic review and meta-analysis, non-dipping status may be associated with retinal venular dilatation, and elevated nighttime BP with retinal arteriolar narrowing. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the impact of nocturnal BP patterns in the retinal microvasculature.
Impact of Voriconazole Therapeutic Drug Monitoring on Adverse Effects and Clinical Outcomes: A Literature Review
Authors: Clary Ryan T. , Deja Erin , Rittmann Barry , Bearman Gonzalo
Published: January 2025

Purpose of Review

Voriconazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent commonly used to treat severe fungal infections. Significant interindividual variability in drug metabolism can lead to subtherapeutic or toxic serum levels impacting clinical outcomes and risk for adverse effects. This review aims to summarize and evaluate evidence that assesses the impact of voriconazole therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) on clinical outcomes and adverse effects.

Recent Findings

Many factors contribute to variability in serum voriconazole levels, such as CYP2C19 polymorphism, hepatic function, etc. TDM can aid in the management of narrow therapeutic index medications like voriconazole to optimize clinical outcomes. Current literature indicates that TDM improves clinical outcomes and reduces adverse effects by helping achieve therapeutic serum concentrations.

Voriconazole TDM is a valuable tool in optimizing treatment outcomes and minimizing adverse effects. Individualized dosing guided by TDM, helps achieve therapeutic serum levels, particularly in patients with variable metabolism enhancing the efficacy of treatment for invasive fungal infections.
Shear wave elastography for thyroid nodule evaluation in patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis
Authors: Latia Monica , Bena Andreea , Moisa-Luca Luciana , Bunceanu Ștefania , Stoian Dana
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Shear wave elastography (SWE) is a valuable tool in discerning the malignancy risk of thyroid nodules. This study investigates whether 2D-SWE can reliably differentiate malignant thyroid nodules in patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (CAT), despite the challenges posed by fibrosis, which can increase tissue stiffness and complicate diagnosis.

Methods

This retrospective observational study evaluated 130 thyroid nodules (91 benign, 39 malignant) in patients with underlying CAT using conventional ultrasound (B-mode) and 2D-SWE with SuperSonic Mach30 equipment (Supersonic Imagine, Aix-en-Provence, France). Pathology reports served as the reference standard.

Results

Out of the 130 nodules, 30% were malignant, and 70% were benign. 2D-SWE proved to be an excellent distinguisher between benign and malignant nodules. Malignant nodules had significantly higher elasticity indices compared to benign nodules (mean elasticity index: 47.2 kPa vs. 18.1 kPa, p < 0.0001; maximum elasticity index: 75 kPa vs. 26.2 kPa, p < 0.0001). The mean elasticity index was the most reliable elastographic parameter (AUC 0.907, sensitivity 87.2% [95% CI: 77.3–94.0%], specificity 84.6% [95% CI: 75.4–91.5%], and NPV 93.9% for a cut-off value of 30.5 kPa).

Conclusion

Our results confirm that 2D-SWE can accurately diagnose malignant thyroid nodules in cases with CAT (p < 0.0001), supporting its use as a complementary tool to conventional ultrasound.
The effects of mindfulness-based intervention on social anxiety, mindfulness, intolerance of uncertainty and emotion dysregulation——a serial multiple mediating structural equation model
Authors: Jiang Xiaochun , Zhang Anbang , Zhang Qian
Published: January 2025

To investigate the potentially unique effects of mindfulness practice on social anxiety in college-bound high school seniors and explore the psychological mechanisms by which it works, this study compared the mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) group with the wait-list control (WLC) group. A total of 66 students who had just graduated from high school and were about to enter college were randomly assigned to the MBI group (n = 33) or WLC group (n = 33) and conducted self-reported mindfulness, intolerance of uncertainty, emotion dysregulation, and social anxiety at baseline and post-intervention. Repeated measurement analysis of variance demonstrated that variables varied significantly over group (MBI group and WLC group) × time (pre-test and post-test). Based on structural equation models (SEM), it has been demonstrated the change in the degrees of mindfulness, intolerance of uncertainty, and emotion dysregulation plays a partial mediating role in the process of alleviating the level of social anxiety with mindfulness intervention. MBI can not only directly affect social anxiety, but also indirectly affect the level of social anxiety through three paths. In conclusion, MBI can effectively help high school leavers improve their level of mindfulness, reduce unbearable uncertainty and emotion dysregulation. Moreover, MBI can alleviate social anxiety in high school graduates preparing for university by improving their level of mindfulness and reducing intolerance of uncertainty and emotion dysregulation.
Oxidative Depolymerization of Lignosulfonates for Muconic Acid Production Using Recombinant Pseudomonas putida CJ475
Authors: Bekirovska Selda , Lund Fredrik , Ajakaiye Jensen Lucy I. , Hulteberg Christian P. , Gorwa-Grauslund Marie F. , Abdelaziz Omar Y.
Published: January 2025

Lignosulfonate, a macromolecular byproduct derived from the paper and pulp industry, is a promising feedstock for bioconversion processes due to its rich carbon content and widespread availability. We here present an approach for the production of muconic acid through the optimization of the oxidative depolymerization of lignosulfonate and its further conversion using a recombinant Pseudomonas putida strain. This process yielded a stream containing a diverse mixture of low-molecular-weight aromatic compounds, the highest yield being that of vanillin, of 5.77 wt%. When bioconversion was performed with the P. putida strain CJ475, previously engineered for the conversion of vanillin to muconic acid, no conversion was initially observed due to the inhibitory effect of the depolymerized lignosulfonate fraction on bacterial growth. However, a simple additional extraction step with ethyl acetate led to the successful conversion of the substrate with a yield of 1.3 ± 0.06 mol muconic acid/mol vanillin in the stream. This study demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing oxidatively depolymerized lignosulfonates as a sustainable carbon source for biobased muconic acid production. It also marks a significant step forward in the utilization of lignocellulosic biomass for sustainable high-value biochemical production, as well as providing valuable insights into the development of bioprocesses utilizing complex, lignin-rich feedstocks.

Graphical Abstract
Reducing Healing Period with DDM/rhBMP-2 Grafting for Early Loading in Dental Implant Surgery
Authors: Ku Jeong-Kui , Lim Jung-Hoon , Lim Jung-Ah , Um In-Woong , Kim Yu-Mi , Yun Pil-Young
Published: January 2025

Background:

Traditionally, dental implants require a healing period of 4 to 9 months for osseointegration, with longer recovery times considered when bone grafting is needed. This retrospective study evaluates the clinical efficacy of demineralized dentin matrix (DDM) combined with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) during dental implant placement to expedite the osseointegration period for early loading.

Methods:

Thirty patients (17 male, 13 female; mean age 55.0 ± 8.8 years) requiring bone grafts due to implant fixture exposure (more than four threads; ≥ 3.2 mm) were included, with a total of 96 implants placed. Implants were inserted using a two-stage protocol with DDM/rhBMP-2 grafts. Early loading was initiated at two months postoperatively in the mandible and three months in the maxilla. Clinical outcomes evaluated included primary and secondary stability (implant stability quotient values), healing period, bone width, and marginal bone level assessed via cone-beam computed tomography.

Results:

All implants successfully supported final prosthetics with a torque of 50Ncm, without any osseointegration failures. The average healing period was 69.6 days in the mandible and 90.5 days in the maxilla, with significantly higher secondary stability in the mandible (80.7 ± 6.7) compared to the maxilla (73.0 ± 9.2, p < 0.001). Histological analysis confirmed new bone formation and vascularization.

Conclusion:

DDM/rhBMP-2 grafting appears to significantly reduce the healing period, enabling early loading with stable and favorable clinical outcomes.
∆9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Increases Growth Factor Release by Cultured Adipose Stem Cells and Adipose Tissue in vivo
Authors: Ruhl Tim , Benic Sofija , Plum Melissa , Kim Bong-Sung , Beier Justus P. , Schaefer Benedikt
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Because of its biocompatibility and its soft and dynamic nature, the grafting of adipose tissue is regarded an ideal technique for soft-tissue repair. The adipose stem cells (ASCs) contribute significantly to the regenerative potential of adipose tissue, because they can differentiate into adipocytes and release growth factors for tissue repair and neovascularization to facilitate tissue survival. The present study tested the effect of administering a chronic low dose of ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on these regenerative properties, in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS:

Human ASCs were exposed to increasing concentrations of THC. Resazurin conversion was applied to investigate the effect on metabolic activity, cell number was assessed by crystal violet staining, tri-linear differentiation was evaluated by specific colorimetric approaches, and the release of growth factors was analyzed by ELISA. Two groups of mice were treated daily either with a low dose of THC (3 mg/kg) or a vehicle solution. After 3 weeks, adipose tissue was obtained from excised fat deposits, homogenized and tested for growth factor contents.

RESULTS:

THC decreased ASC proliferation but increased metabolic activity as well as adipogenic and chondrogenic differentiation. A low concentration of THC (1 µM) enhanced the growth factor release by ASCs. The concentration of these cytokines was also increased in adipose tissue of mice treated with THC.

CONLUSION:

Our results indicate that chronic activation of the endocannabinoid system promoted differentiation and growth factor release of ASCs, which could be of specific value for enhancing the regenerative potential of adipose tissue.
Reframing exploitation: Assessing the utility of the seafood slavery trope
Authors: Ford Michele , Palmer Wayne
Published: January 2025

Seafood slavery refers to various forms of forced labour, human trafficking, debt bondage, and other abusive practices experienced by workers in the commercial fishing sector. It is a powerful trope in international campaigns highlighting the different forms of exploitation experienced by migrant fishers in global seafood supply chains. These campaigns are, however, largely silent about the experiences of domestic fishers employed by domestic fleets in domestic waters. This study shows that these domestic fishers may be subjected to equally bad – if not worse – conditions than migrant fishers employed on foreign fleets. Drawing on observational data and a total of 307 interviews, we demonstrate that Indonesia’s domestic fishers in fact meet all criteria identified in the literature on seafood slavery. We then assess the implications, both positive and negative, of using the seafood slavery trope to describe the exploitation they experience. Based on this assessment, we argue that – while the seafood slavery trope potentially offers some of the same benefits in terms of attracting public attention – its focus on extreme forms of exploitation, and emphasis on the criminal rather than then the industrial mean that it is ultimately poorly suited for either cohort. The concept of labour justice, we conclude, offers a better way to identify concrete steps that can be taken to begin to address the system.
Fatigue assessment of welded pure copper hairpins using notch stress concept
Authors: Ceruso Jesse , Mannsperger Max , Mischko Jens , Esderts Alfons
Published: January 2025

New electrical machines for passenger cars are gaining popularity. These electrical machines which contain copper parts need to generate a magnetic field to generate the propulsion of the machine. Laser welding is a fast and an effective joining process for the copper parts. In order to determine the lifetime of the copper parts, it is necessary to assess the fatigue behavior of the laser weld seam. Current guidelines for fatigue assessment do not include copper parts or copper weld seams, hence a fatigue concept must be derived. This proceeding examines the applicability of the notch stress concept with a reference radius of 0.05 mm for copper weld seams and provides a complex and a simplified way of modeling the weld seams. The presented concept takes the geometry of the weld seams and the fracture area surfaces into account. This leads to stress results with a low scatter range and a flat slope of the S-N curve. Furthermore, the results indicate that the notch stresses are transferable.
Association of salivary proteins with dental caries in children with mixed dentition: a systematic review
Authors: Raja M. , Nazzal H. , Cyprian F. S. , Matoug- Elwerfelli M. , Duggal M.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To review the current evidence on the association between salivary protein profile and dental caries in children during mixed dentition stage.

Methods

This systematic review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches were run in PubMed, Scopus and Embase along with gray literature. The searches were limited to studies on humans, published from inception to February 2024. Observational studies exploring correlations between salivary proteins and caries in children during mixed dentition (6–13 years) were included. The methodological quality of included studies was analyzed independently by two reviewers using the Joanna Briggs checklist and Newcastle–Ottawa scale, respectively followed by a qualitative synthesis.

Results

A total of 17 primary studies were included. The studies recruited 1,330 subjects including 612 caries-active and 505 caries-free subjects. The total protein content was higher in caries-active subjects. Among the glycoproteins, IgA and MUC5B were higher in caries-free subjects while the levels of MUC7 were lower in the caries-free group. Antimicrobial peptides and proteinase-3 levels were also higher in caries-free subjects. Contradictory findings were reported for the association of α- amylase and carbonic anhydrase with caries status. The included studies were categorized as good quality (n = 4), fair quality (n = 12) and poor quality (n = 1).

Conclusion

Based on fair-quality studies included in this review and within its limitations, the findings revealed that salivary proteins may be associated with susceptibility to dental caries in mixed dentition. Total salivary proteins are upregulated in caries-active subjects while salivary IgA, antimicrobial peptides and proteinase-3 are increased in caries-free subjects.

Systematic review registration: The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (registration number CRD42024517374).
The risk of believing that emotions are bad and uncontrollable: association with orthorexia nervosa
Authors: Vuillier L. , Greville-Harris M. , Moseley R. L.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to explore emotional functioning in individuals with varying levels of orthorexia nervosa (ON) symptoms. Given the established links between emotion dysregulation and other eating disorders (EDs), and the conceptualization of ON within the ED spectrum, this research sought to examine the relationships between ON symptomatology and emotion regulation strategies, alexithymia, and beliefs about emotions.

Methods

A large sample (N = 562) completed self-report measures with high psychometric properties, assessing ON traits (E-DOS), emotion regulation strategies (DERS-SF and ERQ), alexithymia (TAS-20), and beliefs about emotions (ERQ). The study used well-validated measures to address limitations of previous research.

Results

Individuals with high ON traits demonstrated difficulties in most aspects of emotional functioning compared to those with low ON traits. Suppression, but not reappraisal, partially mediated the relationship between beliefs about emotions and ON symptoms. Believing emotions are bad or useless, difficulty controlling impulses, and relying on suppression to regulate emotions were most strongly associated with ON symptoms.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that emotion dysregulation plays an important role in ON symptomatology. The findings suggest that when emotions feel unhelpful or uncontrollable, and maladaptive strategies like suppression are employed, individuals may seek perceived control through pathologically 'healthy' eating. There is currently no diagnosis criteria for ON, and consequently no clear treatment pathway. Our research suggests that specific aspects of emotional functioning such as beliefs about the usefulness of emotions or difficulties with feeling out of control when upset may be a useful treatment target to help individuals with ON develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce reliance on rigid dietary rules as a means of emotional regulation.

Level of evidence.

Level III: Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case–control analytic studies.
The roles of impulsivity, comorbid ADHD, and borderline personality disorder in patients with bulimia nervosa
Authors: Gilsbach Susanne , Leuchtenberger Julia , Herpertz-Dahlmann Beate , Voderholzer Ulrich , Konrad Kerstin , von Polier Georg , Seitz Jochen , Fichter Manfred
Published: January 2025

Background

Bulimia nervosa (BN) is a serious mental illness with impulsivity as a cardinal symptom. Impulsivity contributes to various other, often comorbid, mental disorders, such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD). The aim of this study was to explore comorbidities of BN with ADHD and BPD as well as the contribution of impulsivity as an underlying trait linking these disorders.

Methods

Hundred and fifteen females with BN and 98 healthy matched controls (HC) (age range between 16 and 48 years) were assessed regarding adult and childhood-ADHD, personality disorders and impulsivity.

Results

Patients with BN were more impulsive (p < 0.001) and more often fulfilled criteria of childhood/adulthood ADHD (p < 0.001) than HC, and criteria of BPD than expected in the general population. Childhood-ADHD (p = 0.009) and BPD (p = 0.017) both were significant positive predictors for impulsivity scores found in patients with BN.

Conclusion

Comorbidity with ADHD and BPD often is prevalent in BN and associated with an increase in impulsivity, the latter being a relevant transdiagnostic trait. It might be beneficial to explore impulsivity as well as comorbidities in the clinical care of patients with BN.

Level of evidence III

Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case–control analytic studies.
Screening of primary aldosteronism and pheochromocytoma among patients with hypertension: an Italian nationwide survey
Authors: Monticone Silvia , Goi Jessica , Burrello Jacopo , Di Dalmazi Guido , Cicero Arrigo F. G. , Mancusi Costantino , Moia Elena Coletti , Iaccarino Guido , Veglio Franco , Borghi Claudio , Muiesan Maria L. , Ferri Claudio , Mulatero Paolo ,   Italian Society of Arterial Hypertension (SIIA)
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The delayed or missed diagnosis of secondary hypertension contributes to the poor blood pressure control worldwide. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic approach to primary aldosteronism (PA) and pheochromocytoma (PHEO) among Italian centers associated to European and Italian Societies of Hypertension.

Methods

Between July and December 2023, a 10-items questionnaire was administered to experts from 82 centers of 14 Italian regions and to cardiologists from the ARCA (Associazioni Regionali Cardiologi Ambulatoriali) Piemonte. Results were stratified for geographical area, specialty, and center category (excellence vs. non-excellence centers).

Results

Each center diagnosed an average of 2 cases of PA and 0.2 cases of PHEO annually, with higher figures in excellence centers. PA screening is performed mainly in patients with resistant hypertension (73.2%) or hypertension and spontaneous hypokalemia (84.1%), while only 17.1% and 35.4% of centers screen patients with grade 2–3 hypertension. Screening rate is lower for cardiologists compared to other specialists. The main barriers to wider testing were challenges in interpreting the aldosterone/renin ratio under interfering medications and switching to non-interfering drugs. Clinical scores to predict the likelihood of PA and the definition of Standard Operating Procedures were identified as potential tools to boost screening rates. Testing for PHEO was mostly conducted in patients with typical symptoms (75.6%) and/or hypertensive crisis (74.4%). Only 37.8% of centers screened all patients with adrenal incidentaloma.

Conclusion

This study highlights significant gaps in the screening and diagnosis of PA and PHEO across Italian centers and underscores the need for widespread and standardized diagnostic protocols.
A Model Framework for Scaling Pre‐Quaternary Cosmogenic Nuclide Production Rates
Authors: Mijjum M. , Bristol K. E. , Bono R. K. , Sprain C. J. , Lifton N. , Tremblay M. M.
Published: January 2025

Cosmogenic nuclide dating is an essential component of studying Earth surface processes, but it requires knowledge of how nuclide production rates vary in time and space. Typically, production rates are calibrated at sites with independently well‐constrained exposure histories and then scaled to other sites of interest using scaling frameworks that account for spatial and temporal variations in the secondary cosmic‐ray flux at Earth's surface. To date, scaling schemes for terrestrial cosmogenic nuclide production rates have been developed for the Quaternary, yet cosmogenic nuclide applications that extend beyond the Quaternary are becoming more prevalent. For these deeper time applications, production rate calculations using scaling models optimized for the latest Quaternary neglect longer term spatiotemporal variations in geomagnetic field intensity, paleogeography, and paleoatmospheric depth. We present a production rate scaling scheme for the past 70 million years, SPRITE (Scaling Production Rates In deep TimE). This framework extends existing scaling schemes into deeper time by (a) accounting for site‐specific changes in paleolatitude, (b) integrating a geomagnetic field intensity model rooted in data from a global paleomagnetic database, and (c) incorporating climate‐driven, time‐varying atmospheric depths. We evaluate the efficacy of our model by applying it to existing data sets from paleoexposure sites, and from sites with apparent continuous million‐year exposure histories. This scaling model can be applied with measurements of stable cosmogenic nuclides to research questions such as constraining hiatus durations between ancient lava flows and calculating the formation timescales of stable landforms in arid environments over millions of years.
Do Extratropical Cyclones Impact Synoptic‐Scale Variability of the Arctic Oscillation During Cold Season?
Authors: Qian Shengyi , Hu Haibo , Hodges Kevin I. , Yang Xiu‐Qun
Published: January 2025

The Arctic Oscillation (AO) is the most significant mode of sea level pressure (SLP) anomalies in the Northern Hemisphere, exhibiting significant multiple‐timescale variability from synoptic to decadal. Using NCEP Climate Forecast System Reanalysis data from 1979 to 2022 during the cold season (November–April), this study identifies the relationship between the number of extra‐tropical cyclones entering and exiting the Arctic and the AO synoptic variability. The Joint Net Cyclone Flux (JNCF) is significantly correlated with the spatio‐temporal evolution of the synoptic AO and the composites of SLP associated with the JNCF produce AO‐like patterns. Subsequent piecewise potential vorticity inversion reveals the impacts of extratropical cyclones on the synoptic‐scale AO‐like geopotential height anomalies at different altitudes. The effects of extratropical cyclones are more important than Arctic stratospheric PV intrusions. Furthermore, the upper‐level dynamic processes among all extratropical cyclone effects dominate the evolution of synoptic‐scale AO‐like geopotential height anomalies.
Observations of Localized Horizontal Geomagnetic Field Variations Associated With a Magnetospheric Fast Flow Burst During a Magnetotail Reconnection Event Detected by the THEMIS Spacecraft
Authors: Ngwira Chigomezyo M. , Nishimura Yukitoshi , Weygand James M. , Engebretson Mark J. , Pulkkinnen Antti , Schuck Peter W.
Published: January 2025

On 20 December 2015, three Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) spacecraft detected a nightside magnetotail reconnection event in the early main phase of a major geomagnetic storm. The spacecraft (P5, P4, and P3) had their footprints located over North America near the Gillam ground magnetometer station in Canada. Multipoint observations, both in space and from the ground, allow for an examination of the spatiotemporal characteristics of the disturbance on the ground and the associated physical drivers in the magnetosphere and ionosphere. This study shows that the horizontal geomagnetic field d/dt localized (on the scale of 100–300 km) feature observed at Gillam ground magnetometer site was caused by an isolated substorm onset near that station driven by a nightside magnetotail reconnection event detected by three THEMIS spacecraft that were located near the central plasma sheet. A close inspection of equivalent ionospheric current and current amplitude maps derived from ground magnetometer measurements using the spherical elementary current system technique indicates that the location of the localization lies roughly between the upward and downward field aligned current system, which is consistent with other earlier studies. This event represents the first reported observation of ground d/dt localization that is directly linked to nightside magnetotail fast flow bursts and reconnection event during the onset phase of a major Geomagnetic disturbance (GMD).
Influence of Two Spatially Distinct Types of Arctic Oscillation on El Niño
Authors: Zheng Yanzhu , Fang Jiabei , Yang Xiu‐Qun , Tao Lingfeng , Hu Haibo , Sun Xuguang
Published: January 2025

This study examines the cross‐seasonal influence of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) on winter El Niño, using atmospheric and oceanic reanalysis data sets. It has been revealed that the linkage between positive AO and subsequent El Niño is closest during spring, indicating the seasonal dependent and selective impact of AO on ENSO. Composition analyses illustrate that positive spring AO is often associated with a dipole circulation anomaly over the North Pacific. The corresponding cyclonic circulation anomaly in the subtropical North Pacific initiates the Pacific Meridional Mode (PMM), which persists and evolves through the wind‐evaporation‐SST (WES) feedback from, triggering the westerly anomalies in the tropical western Pacific and subsequently triggering the onset of El Niño. Further clustering analysis reveals that the positive spring AO events exhibit two distinct spatial patterns: Type1 with prominent positive SLP anomaly over the midlatitude North Pacific and Type2 with the positive SLP anomaly over the North Atlantic. Both types can trigger El Niño by stimulating the subtropical cyclone anomaly in the North Pacific but through different mechanisms. In Type1 events, high‐pressure anomalies in the midlatitude North Pacific trigger southward‐propagating atmospheric waves, generating the cyclone anomalies in the subtropical North Pacific. Although in Type2 events, the AO‐related circulation anomalies in the North Atlantic stimulate teleconnection wave trains that cross the Eurasian continent and propagate southward to the subtropical North Pacific, inducing the cyclone anomalies. However, Type1 events occur more frequently and are more closely linked to El Niño, highlighting the significant role of air‐sea coupling processes in the North Pacific in triggering El Niño.
Late Quaternary Glaciations on the Chukchi Margin, Arctic Ocean: Insights From Echo Sounding and Sediment Records
Authors: Joe Y. J. , Polyak L. , Jang K. , Vogt C. , Kim S. , Kim J.‐H. , Jin Y. K. , Hong J. K. , Niessen F. , Nam S.‐I.
Published: January 2025

Glacigenic bedforms such as glacial lineations and moraines on the Chukchi and East Siberian margins of the Arctic Ocean reveal recurrent waxing and waning of voluminous ice masses. Despite their paleoclimatic significance, the timing, geographic distribution, and mechanisms of these glaciations remain inadequately understood. To enhance our understanding of the Quaternary Arctic glacial history, we study high‐resolution swath bathymetry and subbottom profiler data with lithostratigraphy and provenance of four sediment cores. These data characterize deposits of the last two glaciations at the Chukchi margin and adjacent basins. In all cores, multiple peaks of plagioclase are prominent in both glacial intervals, probably reflecting predominant glacigenic input from the East Siberian Ice Sheet (ESIS). Peaks of dolomite and quartz trace the Laurentide Ice Sheet sources around the last glacial/deglacial interval and in sediment preceding the older glaciation. By integrating seismostratigraphy with sediment cores, we constrain the formation of mid‐slope moraines on the western side of the Chukchi Rise to the older glaciation (estimated age range MIS 4 or 6). Considering the coeval glacial erosion off the East Siberian margin, our results confirm that the ESIS at that time extended to water depths of ∼650/950 m on the Chukchi Rise/East Siberian margin. In comparison, the last ESIS (MIS 2 or possibly 4) was smaller, with the identified seafloor imprint limited to water depths of ∼450 m on the Chukchi Borderland, while its extent on the East Siberian margin remains to be determined.
SD-OCT-histopathologic correlation in Schnabel’s cavernous optic nerve atrophy
Authors: Weber C. , Mercieca K. , Weller J. M. , Bulirsch L. M. , Ach T. , Holz F. G. , Loeffler K. U. , Herwig-Carl M. C.
Published: January 2025

Background

Until now, Schnabel’s cavernous optic nerve atrophy (SCONA) has solely been a histopathological diagnosis exhibiting variable degrees of optic nerve (ON) atrophy with characteristic cavernous spaces filled with acid mucopolysaccharides. We report the first correlation of histopathologic findings with spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) imaging in SCONA.

Methods

We examined the eye of an index patient with histopathologically identified SCONA who had undergone multimodal imaging before enucleation for iris ring melanoma. The extent of SCONA in the index patient and three other enucleated eyes with SCONA were determined histopathologically. The histopathological findings of our index patient were correlated with in vivo SD-OCT images before enucleation and compared to representative images from eyes with a normal versus glaucomatous optic disc.

Results

Histopathologic examination of our index patient showed a pre- and intralaminar extension of SCONA. Atrophy of the inner retinal layers was observed corresponding to the extent of SCONA. Correlation with SD-OCT showed small intralaminar hyporeflective pseudocysts which were detected in multiple scans corresponding to the histologically affected areas. These changes were neither visible in scans of patients with glaucomatous atrophy nor those with a normal ON.

Conclusions

We present the first correlation of clinical and pathological findings in SCONA and were able to identify distinct SD-OCT characteristics for this condition. These findings may help to detect SCONA in vivo and to study this rare entity clinically with regard to its clinical course, risk factors, and pathogenesis. However, more cases of SCONA are needed to confirm our findings.