bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI-driven optimization of dynamic vibration absorbers with hydraulic amplifier and mechanical inerter integration
Authors: Shamseldin Ahmed , Abido Mohammad A. , Alofi Abdulrahman
Published: September 2024

Dynamic vibration absorbers (DVAs) have been widely employed in vibration suppression applications for decades. While DVAs offer an effective solution, they are limited by the need for a high mass ratio between the DVA and the primary system to achieve significant vibration attenuation. To overcome this, researchers have introduced lever mechanisms, allowing for enhanced vibration suppression without increasing the mass ratio. However, levers, commonly used as amplification mechanisms, suffer from high inertia and limited amplification, particularly in larger applications. Another limitation is when DVAs are employed for energy harvesting as a secondary objective, they exhibit high sensitivity to system parameter variations, requiring extensive optimization. Various optimization techniques have been applied to DVAs for multi-objective optimization, including fixed-point theory, which is complex and requires intensive mathematical derivation, and simple metaheuristic techniques such as genetic algorithms (GA). This study proposes four novel DVAs using a hydraulic amplifier (HA) to address the limitations of traditional lever mechanisms and a mechanical inerter to improve the vibration damping. Also, multi-objective optimization was performed using particle swarm optimization (PSO) which is considered innovative in this application and compared with commonly used genetic algorithms (GA). The governing equations were derived using Newton’s second law and solved numerically with the Runge-Kutta method. An AI-based approach was utilized for HA design. The results show that integrating HA and mechanical inerters significantly enhances vibration attenuation and broadens the frequency response. Additionally, the location of the mechanical inerter is critical in reducing vibration amplitude. Also, the multi-objective PSO outperforms GA in solution diversity and quality. The proposed integration of HA in DVAs offers potential applications across various engineering fields.
Developing methods to identify resilience and improve communication about diagnosis in pediatric primary care
Authors: Rasooly Irit R. , Marshall Trisha L. , Cifra Christina L. , Catchpole Ken , Kuzma Nicholas C. , Brady Patrick W. , Melton Katherine , Khan Alisa , Chien Alyna T. , Lipstein Ellen A. , Landrigan Christopher P. , Walsh Kathleen E.
Published: September 2024

Communication underlies every stage of the diagnostic process. The Dialog Study aims to characterize the pediatric diagnostic journey, focusing on communication as a source of resilience, in order to ultimately develop and test the efficacy of a structured patient-centered communication intervention in improving outpatient diagnostic safety. In this manuscript, we will describe protocols, data collection instruments, methods, analytic approaches, and theoretical frameworks to be used in to characterize the patient journey in the Dialog Study. Our approach to characterization of the patient journey will attend to patient and structural factors, like race and racism, and language and language access, before developing interventions. Our mixed-methods approach is informed by the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) 3.0 framework (which describes the sociotechnical system underpinning diagnoses within the broader context of multiple interactions with different care settings over time) and the Safety II framework (which seeks to understand successful and unsuccessful adaptations to ongoing changes in demand and capacity within the healthcare system). We will assess the validity of different methods to detect diagnostic errors along the diagnostic journey. In doing so, we will emphasize the importance of viewing the diagnostic process as the product of communications situated in systems-of-work that are constantly adapting to everyday challenges.
The Edmonton Frail Scale as a screening score for frailty in oncogeriatrics
Authors: De Schrevel Julia , Faucon Clémentine , Sibille François-Xavier , Dumont Laura , Herrmann Francois R. , Rouvière Héloïse , De Breucker Sandra
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) is recommended for assessing frailty in older cancer patients but is time-consuming. The G8 screening tool was developed to select frail patients requiring CGA to optimize resources. The Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS) is another frailty scale validated for preoperative frailty screening, but scarcely studied in the field of oncogeriatrics. In this study, we examined the added value of the EFS in older cancer patients already considered as frail by the G8, by analyzing the association of EFS with CGA adjusted for age, gender, metastatic stage and comorbidity. We also analyzed the association of EFS with the one-year mortality rate after adjusting for cancer type and metastatic stage.

Methodology

This retrospective study included patients aged over 70 years old with a new diagnosis of cancer, considered as potentially frail according to the G8 and who had had a CGA (N = 380).

Results

The EFS identified 329 (86.58%) patients as frail and having a statistically significant predicted number of pathological components on the CGA (r = 0.64, p < 0.001). When adjusted for age, sex, comorbidity, and metastatic stage, the EFS was independently associated with the CGA (p < 0001), as well as with comorbidity (p = 0.004). The patients who died in the first year (43%) had a significantly higher mean EFS score (8/17) than living patients (6/17) (p < 0.0001). After adjustment for cancer type and stage, EFS independently predicted one-year mortality (OR 1.17; 95% CI 1.08–1.28; pseudo R2 = 0.228, p < 0.001).

Discussion

The EFS is a reliable tool for predicting frailty identified by the CGA in an older cancer population pre-selected as frail by the G8. EFS is an independent predictor of one-year mortality after adjustment for confounding factors. Validation of the EFS as a screening tool for frailty in cancer requires further studies to assess its performance in patients with normal G8 scores.
Association between dietary β-carotene intake with Parkinson’s disease and all-cause mortality among American adults aged 40 and older (NHANES 2001–2018)
Authors: Su Jing , Liu Liming , Wang Ruonan , Li Chunmei , Wang Zihan , Xu Qiaoli , Shen Chunyu , Wu Dalong , Zhao Dexi
Published: September 2024

Background

The existing evidence concerning the correlation between dietary β-carotene intake and Parkinson’s disease (PD) is currently deemed insufficient. Thus, this research aims to investigate the relationship between dietary β-carotene intake and both the prevalence of PD and all-cause mortality within the US (United States) population.

Methods

The research employed cross-sectional analysis and cohort studies utilizing data from 16,852 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2001 to 2018. Weighted logistic regression, weighted cox regression, restricted cubic splines (RCS), subgroup analysis, and sensitivity analyses were employed to validate the research objectives.

Results

Among all eligible subjects, the mean age was 59.62 ± 11.77 years, with a prevalence of PD at 1.82% overall, with 43.88% in males. In the fully adjusted model, dietary β-carotene intake exhibited a negative association with PD prevalence [odds ratio (OR) = 0.95; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.90 ~ 0.997; p = 0.040]. Utilizing RCS analysis, a negative linear correlation between dietary β-carotene intake and PD prevalence was observed (non-linear p = 0.857). Furthermore, after controlling for multiple variables, dietary β-carotene intake was inversely associated with all-cause mortality [Hazard ratios (HR) = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.97 ~ 0.99; p = 0.002], with RCS curves indicating a negative linear relationship (nonlinear: p = 0.082). Comparable patterns of association were noted in subgroup analyses, and consistent findings were derived from additional sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

The cross-sectional and cohort study reveals a significant negative correlation between dietary β-carotene intake and both the prevalence of PD and all-cause mortality in the general population. This suggested that supplementing with dietary β-carotene might have certain benefits for reducing the prevalence of PD and all-cause mortality. However, further rigorously designed expected studies are needed to establish the causal relationship between them.
The role of SIRT1 in autophagy and drug resistance: unveiling new targets and potential biomarkers in cancer therapy
Authors: Tang Yujing , Ju Wantao , Liu Yanjun , Deng Qin
Published: September 2024

Cancer, the world’s second leading cause of death after cardiovascular diseases, is characterized by hallmarks such as uncontrolled cell growth, metastasis, angiogenesis, hypoxia, and resistance to therapy. Autophagy, a cellular process that can both support and inhibit cancer progression, plays a critical role in cancer development and progression. This process involves the formation of autophagosomes that ultimately fuse with lysosomes to degrade cellular components. A key regulator of this process is Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), which significantly influences autophagy. This review delves into the role of SIRT1 in modulating autophagy and its broader impacts on carcinogenesis. SIRT1 regulates crucial autophagy mediators, such as AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), effectively promoting or suppressing autophagy. Beyond its direct effects on autophagy, SIRT1’s regulatory actions extend to other cell death processes, including apoptosis and ferroptosis, thereby influencing tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and chemotherapy responses. These insights underscore the complex interplay between SIRT1 and autophagy, with significant implications for cancer therapy. Targeting SIRT1 and its associated pathways presents a promising strategy to manipulate autophagy in cancer treatment. This review underscores the potential of SIRT1 as a therapeutic target, opening new avenues for enhancing cancer treatment efficacy.
SNPs in cytochromes P450 catalyzing cholesterol degradation in brain are associated with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Petkova-Kirova Polina , Kolchina Anastasia , Baas Stephan , Wagenpfeil Gudrun , Unger Marcus Michael , Schulze-Hentrich Julia Maria , Bernhardt Rita
Published: September 2024

Besides being an essential structural component of plasma membranes and the precursor of many functional compounds and signaling molecules, cholesterol was also proposed to play a role in the etiology and/or manifestation of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, so far systematic investigations on the role of cholesterol and its metabolites present in the brain for the etiology of PD are missing. Here, we investigate for the first time the association of PD with SNPs in the genes of four cytochromes P450 (P450), CYP46A1, CYP39A1, CYP27A1 and CYP7B1, which are critical for the degradation of cholesterol in the brain. Analyzing 1,349 individuals from the PPMI data base, we found 24 SNPs in these four genes, which are significantly over- or under-represented in patients suffering from idiopathic PD (IPD). Studying each of the 362 IPD patients individually, we found that most patients (45%) showed only one associated SNP in one of the four P450 genes, while 31% displayed two associated SNPs and 18% three associated SNPs. The occurrence of some associated SNPs is in the same order of magnitude as SNPs in the GBA (beta-glucocerebrosidase) and thus might reflect a genetic predisposition for PD. As all 24 SNPs were located in introns and 3′ untranslated regions, we evaluated the prospective regulatory impact of the surrounding genomic regions by using transcriptome and epigenome data from the Foundational Data Initiative for Parkinson Disease (FOUNDIN-PD). FOUNDIN-PD provides gene expression, open chromatin and DNA methylation data in a cohort of 89 induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines differentiated to dopaminergic (DA) neurons derived from people in the PPMI study. Indeed, two of the 24 SNPs, one in CYP7B1 (rs118111353) and the other one in CYP27A1 (rs74446825), were localized within a region of open chromatin in differentiated neurons. Interestingly, all iPSC lines with open chromatin in rs118111353 showed the reference allele. As all four P450, CYP46A1, CYP39A1, CYP27A1 and CYP7B1, are expressed in dopaminergic neurons, we discuss further functional studies to connect SNPs in regulatory regions with gene expression levels. Finally, potential possibilities for personalized therapeutic treatment of patients with SNPs in the four investigated P450 are discussed.
Fruit and vegetable leaf disease recognition based on a novel custom convolutional neural network and shallow classifier
Authors: Naqvi Syeda Aimal Fatima , Khan Muhammad Attique , Hamza Ameer , Alsenan Shrooq , Alharbi Meshal , Teng Sokea , Nam Yunyoung
Published: September 2024

Fruits and vegetables are among the most nutrient-dense cash crops worldwide. Diagnosing diseases in fruits and vegetables is a key challenge in maintaining agricultural products. Due to the similarity in disease colour, texture, and shape, it is difficult to recognize manually. Also, this process is time-consuming and requires an expert person. We proposed a novel deep learning and optimization framework for apple and cucumber leaf disease classification to consider the above challenges. In the proposed framework, a hybrid contrast enhancement technique is proposed based on the Bi-LSTM and Haze reduction to highlight the diseased part in the image. After that, two custom models named Bottleneck Residual with Self-Attention (BRwSA) and Inverted Bottleneck Residual with Self-Attention (IBRwSA) are proposed and trained on the selected datasets. After the training, testing images are employed, and deep features are extracted from the self-attention layer. Deep extracted features are fused using a concatenation approach that is further optimized in the next step using an improved human learning optimization algorithm. The purpose of this algorithm was to improve the classification accuracy and reduce the testing time. The selected features are finally classified using a shallow wide neural network (SWNN) classifier. In addition to that, both trained models are interpreted using an explainable AI technique such as LIME. Based on this approach, it is easy to interpret the inside strength of both models for apple and cucumber leaf disease classification and identification. A detailed experimental process was conducted on both datasets, Apple and Cucumber. On both datasets, the proposed framework obtained an accuracy of 94.8% and 94.9%, respectively. A comparison was also conducted using a few state-of-the-art techniques, and the proposed framework showed improved performance.
Assessing basic/fundamental psychological need fulfillment: systematic mapping and review of existing scales to foster cumulative science
Authors: Kermavnar Tjaša , Avsec Andreja , Huang Siyuan , Desmet Pieter M. A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Because the fulfillment of basic/fundamental psychological needs affects people’s motivation and well-being, measuring the degree to which these needs are met is of interest to researchers across various domains. Although numerous self-assessment tools have been developed, no recent comprehensive reviews exist, hindering cumulative scientific progress. The present systematic review aimed to identify and analyze the main approaches to developing self-report scales for assessing basic/fundamental psychological need fulfillment. The objective is to inform readers interested in selecting instruments for their studies and those intending to develop new scales.

Methods

Following PRISMA, we conducted a search of Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and ProQuest in August 2023. The following information was extracted from eligible studies: Scale name, abbreviation, theoretical basis, application domain, final scale construction, scale development and validation methodology, and citation count.

Results

Our search identified 32 primary studies, in which 31 original scales were developed and validated, and 89 secondary studies that aimed to modify these original scales. The predominant theoretical basis was Self-Determination Theory, although eight scales were based on alternative need typologies. The scales were either domain-general or specific to contexts such as work, education, or exercise/sports contexts. While most were designed to measure need satisfaction, some also addressed need support, frustration, and thwarting.

Conclusion

Despite significant efforts in developing, adapting, and applying scales to measure need fulfillment, we found several issues resulting from diverse perspectives on conceptualizing psychological needs and need typologies, discordant approaches in developing and validating measures, and other inconsistencies that should be acknowledged and addressed in future research.
Do birth outcomes mediate the association between drug use in pregnancy and neonatal metabolic bone disease? A prospective cohort study of 10,801 Chinese women
Authors: Jiang Honglin , Guo Jialin , Li Jing , Li Chunlin , Du Wenchong , Canavese Federico , Xie Feng , Li Huajing , Yang Jian , Ying Hao , Hua Jing
Published: September 2024

Background

Prenatal drug use may cause toxicity to bone health in newborns. We aimed to examine whether birth outcomes mediate the association between medication use and neonatal metabolic bone disease (MBD).

Methods

A prospective cohort of 10,801 pregnant women (17–49 years) and their infants followed at a single center from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2021 were included. Based on four single drugs, comprehensive medication use was determined and categorized into three groups using latent-class analysis: group 1 included antibiotics and furosemide or less than two drugs except for MgSO4; group 2 included MgSO4 without antibiotics or furosemide; and group 3 encompassed dexamethasone and antibiotics. Mediation analysis was conducted to assess the mediating effects of prematurity, low birth weight (LBW), and small for gestational age (SGA).

Results

There were 138 (1.3%) infants with MBD; 2,701 (25%) were born preterm, 1717 (15.9%) had LBW, and 303 (2.8%) were SGA. Pregnant women in groups 2 and 3 were 2.52 to 14.66 times more likely to deliver an infant with MBD than those in group 1. Only LBW showed a significant mediating effect on the association between comprehensive medication use and MBD, with a mediation proportion of 51.8% (45.0–64.1%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Comprehensive medication use during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of neonatal MBD, largely mediated by LBW. Early antepartum monitoring and prevention targeting adverse birth outcomes are necessary to mitigate the risk of MBD.
Structural injustice, marginality, and neurolaw: a normative comparative and theoretical approach
Authors: Díaz-Soto José Manuel , Borbón Diego
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we introduce a perspective based on a comparative viewpoint on the Colombian Penal Code and a theoretical approach to neurolaw and criminal responsibility in contexts of marginality and extreme poverty. We present a further response to the debate on how structural injustice impacts criminal responsibility. By offering a comparative and theoretical insight, this paper enriches the debate and provides an understanding of how legal systems might address these issues. The paper then suggests that other legislations can follow the rule of Article 56 of the Colombian Penal Code, which reduces punishment in circumstances of marginality, ignorance, or extreme poverty. Utilizing neuroscience findings, we briefly highlight the interplay between structural injustice and neurobiological vulnerabilities, emphasizing the complexity of the role of incarceration and criminal law in marginalized populations. We invite scholars to consider debates on alternatives to criminal law, the reduction of prison use and mass incarceration, as well as further remarks on the problem of free will. In this paper, we seek to bridge the gap between neuroscientific insights and socio-legal ethics to foster a more equitable and humane system of justice.
Case report: Palliation of right pulmonary artery compression with overlapping, self-expanding vascular stents and toceranib phosphate in a dog with a large, compressive chemodectoma
Authors: Ferrel Claudia Serrano , Winter Randolph L. , Maneval Kara L. , Matz Brad M. , Bergman Noelle S. , Starbird Cierra , Koehler Jey , Liao PenTing
Published: September 2024

Acquired pulmonary artery branch stenosis without main pulmonary artery involvement due to external compression by neoplasia has been described in human and veterinary medicine. Over time, this can result in right ventricular hypertension and right-sided heart failure. Endovascular stenting offers quick relief from signs, while the underlying cause is addressed. Here, we present a dog with severe right pulmonary artery compression caused by a chemodectoma, which was treated with two, overlapping, self-expanding vascular stents and chemotherapy. The patient experienced immediate symptomatic relief, progressive stent expansion over time, and has been free of clinical symptoms for 5 months post implantation.
Case report: Comprehensive clinical, pathological and genetic investigations to decipher the background of cyclic thrombocytopenia
Authors: Nagy Zsófia Flóra , Árvai Kristóf , Lakatos Péter , Debreceni Ildikó Beke , Szili Balázs , Istenes Ildikó , Bödör Csaba , Demeter Judit
Published: September 2024

Cyclic thrombocytopenia (CTP) is a rare disease characterized by the oscillations seen in the platelet count of the patients. The pathomechanism of the disease is poorly understood, several pathological processes have been implied in the background of CTP. In our current study, we aimed to thoroughly investigate the case of a 41-year-old female patient with a 22-year history of CTP. Wide-ranging laboratory testing, histological analyses and genetic investigations were carried out to investigate all the defects and alterations of physiological pathways described in the background of CTP to date. Bone marrow biopsy showed normal hemopoiesis with the abundance of megakaryocytes, some of which displayed hypolobulated nuclei. T-cell receptor rearrangement studies showed a polyclonal pattern with no indication of a monoclonal cell population. Flow cytometric assessment of the platelets revealed large number of immature platelets and decreased expression of glycoprotein IIb and IIIa at platelet zenith. Increased expression of glycoprotein IIb, IIIa and glycoprotein Ib-IX complex was observed at the nadir of the cycle. Whole exome sequencing revealed a heterozygous missense variant of uncertain significance in the SERPINC1 gene, which has been associated with hereditary antithrombin deficiency. The screening of autoantibodies did not reveal signs of autoreactive processes, and no thyroid dysfunction was found. Furthermore, synchronization with the menstrual cycle could not be concluded based on our patient’s case. With our results we contribute to the very limited data known about the long-term course of the disease and provide valuable insights into the genetic architecture of CTP.
Design and Verification of Thermal Control System of Communication Satellite
Authors: Huang Hongzhou , Bu Changgen
Published: September 2024

The multiple working modes, complex working conditions, frequent changes in external heat flux, and high power consumption of communication satellites all pose great difficulties to their thermal design. This paper mainly describes the design of a thermal control system for high-power communication satellites. Firstly, new efficient heat transfer technologies and thermal control materials for spacecraft are introduced. Secondly, the structure and internal heat source of the satellite are introduced. Thirdly, the external heat fluxes are analyzed, and the position of the heat dissipation surface and extreme conditions are confirmed. Then, a thermal control system is designed around the difficulties of thermal control. With heat pipes, the temperature uniformity of +Y deck, −Y deck, and +Z deck increased by 8 °C, 9.9 °C, and 34.2 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the maximum temperature of the power controller, secondary power supply, bidirectional frequency converter, and solid discharge decreased by 32.5 °C, 22.0 °C, 14.0 °C, and 164 °C, respectively. Finally, a thermal balance test is performed. The test results show that the temperatures of the solid-state power amplifier, on-board computer, power controller, secondary power supply, and bidirectional frequency converter meet the requirements of the thermal control indices. In addition, the temperature of thermal-sensitive components such as batteries and the storage tank also meets the requirements. The thermal design scheme is reasonable and feasible, and the thermal balance test verifies the correctness of the thermal design.
The 3Cat-4 Spacecraft Thermal Analysis and Thermal Vacuum Test Campaign Results
Authors: Buitrago-Leiva Jeimmy Nataly , Terraza-Palanca Ines , Contreras-Benito Luis , Fernandez Lara , Gracia-Sola Guillem , del Castillo Sancho Cristina , Ha Lily , Palma David , Solyga Malgorzata , Camps Adriano
Published: September 2024

3Cat-4 is the fourth member of the CubeSat series of UPC’s NanoSat Lab, and it was selected by the ESA Academy’s Fly Your Satellite! program in 2017. This mission aims at demonstrating the capabilities of nano-satellites, and in particular those based in the 1-Unit CubeSat standard, for challenging Earth Observation (EO) using Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R) and L-band microwave radiometry, as well as for Automatic Identification Systems (AIS). The following study presents the results of the thermal analysis carried out for this mission, evaluating different scenarios, including the most critical cases at both high and low temperatures. The results consider different albedos and orbital parameters in order to establish the optimal temperatures to achieve the best mission performance within the nominal temperatures, and in all operational modes of the satellite. Simulation results are included considering the thermal performance of other materials, such as Kapton, as well as the redesign of the optical properties of the satellite’s solar panels. The correlation with the thermal model and the TVAC test campaign was conducted at the ESA ESEC-GALAXIA facilities in Belgium.
The Generation of Seismogenic Anomalous Electric Fields in the Lower Atmosphere, and Its Application to Very-High-Frequency and Very-Low-Frequency/Low-Frequency Emissions: A Review
Authors: Hayakawa Masashi , Hobara Yasuhide , Michimoto Koichiro , Nickolaenko Alexander P.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this paper is, first of all, to review the previous works on the seismic (or earthquake (EQ)-related) direct current (DC) (or quasi-stationary) electric fields in the lower atmosphere, which is likely to be generated by the conductivity current flowing in the closed atmosphere–ionosphere electric circuit during the preparation phase of an EQ. The current source is electromotive force (EMF) caused by upward convective transport and the gravitational sedimentation of radon and charged aerosols injected into the atmosphere by soil gasses during the course of the intensification of seismic processes. The theoretical calculations predict that pre-EQ DC electric field enhancement in the atmosphere can reach the breakdown value at the altitudes 2–6 km, suggesting the generation of a peculiar seismic-related thundercloud. Then, we propose to apply this theoretical inference to the observational results of seismogenic VHF (very high frequency) and VLF/LF (very low frequency/low frequency) natural radio emissions. The formation of such a peculiar layer initiates numerous chaotic electrical discharges within this region, leading to the generation of VHF electromagnetic radiation. Earlier works on VHF seismogenic radiation performed in Greece have been compared with the theoretical estimates, and showed a good agreement in the frequency range and intensity. The same idea can also be applied, for the first time, to seismogenic VLF/LF lightning discharges, which is completely the same mechanism with conventional cloud-to-ground lightning discharges. In fact, such seismogenic VLF/LF lightning discharges have been observed to appear before an EQ. So, we conclude in this review that both seismogenic VHF radiation and VLF/LF lightning discharges are regarded as indirect evidence of the generation of anomalous electric fields in the lowest atmosphere due to the emanation of radioactive radon and charged aerosols during the preparation phase of EQs. Finally, we have addressed the most fundamental issue of whether VHF and VLF/LF radiation reported in earlier works is either of atmospheric origin (as proposed in this paper) or of lithospheric origin as the result of microfracturing in the EQ fault region, which has long been hypothesized. This paper will raise a question regarding this hypothesis of lithospheric origin by proposing an alternative atmospheric origin outlined in this review. Also, the data on seismogenic electromagnetic radiation and its inference on perturbations in the lower atmosphere will be suggested to be extensively integrated in future lithosphere–atmosphere–ionosphere coupling (LAIC) studies.
Honeycomb-like N-Doped Carbon Matrix-Encapsulated Co1−xS/Co(PO3)2 Heterostructures for Advanced Lithium-Ion Capacitors
Authors: Liu Yutao , Xie Xiaopeng , Wu Zhaojia , Wen Tao , Zhao Fang , He Hao , Duan Junfei , Wang Wen
Published: September 2024

Lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) are emerging as promising hybrid energy storage devices that combine the high energy densities of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with high power densities of supercapacitors (SCs). Nevertheless, the development of LICs is hindered by the kinetic imbalances between battery-type anodes and capacitor-type cathodes. To address this issue, honeycomb-like N-doped carbon matrices encapsulating Co1−xS/Co(PO3)2 heterostructures were prepared using a simple chemical blowing-vulcanization process followed by phosphorylation treatment (Co1−xS/Co(PO3)2@NC). The Co1−xS/Co(PO3)2@NC features a unique heterostructure engineered within carbon honeycomb structures, which efficiently promotes charge transfer at the interfaces, alleviates the volume expansion of Co-based materials, and accelerates reaction kinetics. The optimal Co1−xS/Co(PO3)2@NC composite demonstrates a stable reversible capacity of 371.8 mAh g−1 after 800 cycles at 1 A g−1, and exhibits an excellent rate performance of 242.9 mAh g−1 even at 8 A g−1, alongside enhanced pseudocapacitive behavior. The assembled Co1−xS/Co(PO3)2@NC//AC LIC delivers a high energy density of 90.47 Wh kg−1 (at 26.28 W kg−1), a high power density of 504.94 W kg−1 (at 38.31 Wh kg−1), and a remarkable cyclic stablitiy of 86.3% retention after 5000 cycles. This research is expected to provide valuable insights into the design of conversion-type electrode materials for future energy storage applications.
Comparison of IMU-Based Knee Kinematics with and without Harness Fixation against an Optical Marker-Based System
Authors: Weber Jana G. , Ortigas-Vásquez Ariana , Sauer Adrian , Dupraz Ingrid , Utz Michael , Maas Allan , Grupp Thomas M.
Published: September 2024

The use of inertial measurement units (IMUs) as an alternative to optical marker-based systems has the potential to make gait analysis part of the clinical standard of care. Previously, an IMU-based system leveraging Rauch–Tung–Striebel smoothing to estimate knee angles was assessed using a six-degrees-of-freedom joint simulator. In a clinical setting, however, accurately measuring abduction/adduction and external/internal rotation of the knee joint is particularly challenging, especially in the presence of soft tissue artefacts. In this study, the in vivo IMU-based joint angles of 40 asymptomatic knees were assessed during level walking, under two distinct sensor placement configurations: (1) IMUs fixed to a rigid harness, and (2) IMUs mounted on the skin using elastic hook-and-loop bands (from here on referred to as “skin-mounted IMUs”). Estimates were compared against values obtained from a harness-mounted optical marker-based system. The comparison of these three sets of kinematic signals (IMUs on harness, IMUs on skin, and optical markers on harness) was performed before and after implementation of a REference FRame Alignment MEthod (REFRAME) to account for the effects of differences in coordinate system orientations. Prior to the implementation of REFRAME, in comparison to optical estimates, skin-mounted IMU-based angles displayed mean root-mean-square errors (RMSEs) up to 6.5°, while mean RMSEs for angles based on harness-mounted IMUs peaked at 5.1°. After REFRAME implementation, peak mean RMSEs were reduced to 4.1°, and 1.5°, respectively. The negligible differences between harness-mounted IMUs and the optical system after REFRAME revealed that the IMU-based system was capable of capturing the same underlying motion pattern as the optical reference. In contrast, obvious differences between the skin-mounted IMUs and the optical reference indicated that the use of a harness led to fundamentally different joint motion being measured, even after accounting for reference frame misalignments. Fluctuations in the kinematic signals associated with harness use suggested the rigid device oscillated upon heel strike, likely due to inertial effects from its additional mass. Our study proposes that optical systems can be successfully replaced by more cost-effective IMUs with similar accuracy, but further investigation (especially in vivo and upon heel strike) against moving videofluoroscopy is recommended.
Three-Dimensional Analysis of Vocal Fold Oscillations: Correlating Superior and Medial Surface Dynamics Using Ex Vivo Human Hemilarynges
Authors: Veltrup Reinhard , Angerer Susanne , Gessner Elena , Matheis Friederike , Sümmerer Emily , Henningson Jann-Ole , Döllinger Michael , Semmler Marion
Published: September 2024

The primary acoustic signal of the voice is generated by the complex oscillation of the vocal folds (VFs), whereby physicians can barely examine the medial VF surface due to its anatomical inaccessibility. In this study, we investigated possibilities to infer medial surface dynamics by analyzing correlations in the oscillatory behavior of the superior and medial VF surfaces of four human hemilarynges, each in 24 different combinations of flow rate, VF adduction, and elongation. The two surfaces were recorded synchronously during sustained phonation using two high-speed camera setups and were subsequently 3D-reconstructed. The 3D surface parameters of mean and maximum velocities and displacements and general phonation parameters were calculated. The VF oscillations were also analyzed using empirical eigenfunctions (EEFs) and mucosal wave propagation, calculated from medial surface trajectories. Strong linear correlations were found between the 3D parameters of the superior and medial VF surfaces, ranging from 0.8 to 0.95. The linear regressions showed similar values for the maximum velocities at all hemilarynges (0.69–0.9), indicating the most promising parameter for predicting the medial surface. Since excessive VF velocities are suspected to cause phono-trauma and VF polyps, this parameter could provide added value to laryngeal diagnostics in the future.
Building an Ethical and Trustworthy Biomedical AI Ecosystem for the Translational and Clinical Integration of Foundation Models
Authors: Sankar Baradwaj Simha , Gilliland Destiny , Rincon Jack , Hermjakob Henning , Yan Yu , Adam Irsyad , Lemaster Gwyneth , Wang Dean , Watson Karol , Bui Alex , Wang Wei , Ping Peipei
Published: September 2024

Foundation Models (FMs) are gaining increasing attention in the biomedical artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem due to their ability to represent and contextualize multimodal biomedical data. These capabilities make FMs a valuable tool for a variety of tasks, including biomedical reasoning, hypothesis generation, and interpreting complex imaging data. In this review paper, we address the unique challenges associated with establishing an ethical and trustworthy biomedical AI ecosystem, with a particular focus on the development of FMs and their downstream applications. We explore strategies that can be implemented throughout the biomedical AI pipeline to effectively tackle these challenges, ensuring that these FMs are translated responsibly into clinical and translational settings. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of key stewardship and co-design principles that not only ensure robust regulation but also guarantee that the interests of all stakeholders—especially those involved in or affected by these clinical and translational applications—are adequately represented. We aim to empower the biomedical AI community to harness these models responsibly and effectively. As we navigate this exciting frontier, our collective commitment to ethical stewardship, co-design, and responsible translation will be instrumental in ensuring that the evolution of FMs truly enhances patient care and medical decision-making, ultimately leading to a more equitable and trustworthy biomedical AI ecosystem.
Three-Year Safety and Efficacy of Endovascular Treatment of Common Femoral Artery in 150 PAD Patients
Authors: Wischmann Patricia , Stern Manuel , Florea David-Ioan , Neudorf Luise , Haddad Yassine , Kramser Nicolas , Schillings Miriam , Baasen Sven , Schremmer Johanna , Heiss Christian , Kelm Malte , Busch Lucas
Published: September 2024

Background: The gold standard treatment for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) of the common femoral artery (CFA) is open common femoral endarterectomy (CFAE). Interest in the less invasive endovascular treatment (EVT) is growing due to PAD patients’ frequent co-morbidities. Aims: We aimed to evaluate three-year EVT outcomes in multimorbid PAD patients with severe calcified CFA lesions. Methods: Using the prospectively maintained “all-comers” Duesseldorf PTA Registry, we analysed the three-year outcomes of 150 patients with EVT of the CFA. Between January 2017 and October 2023, 66 patients received a rotational excisional atherectomy (REA) followed by a drug-coated balloon angioplasty (DCB), and 84 patients received a DCB alone. Results: All procedures involved the CFA, 49% additionally involved the proximal superficial femoral artery (SFA), and 10% of the lesions involved the profunda femoris artery (PFA). The procedural success rate was 97% and independent of PAD stage, with a higher level of stent implantation in the DCB group (58% vs. 39%, p < 0.05). The primary patency rate at one year was 83% for REA + DCB and 87% for DCB (p = 0.576), while secondary patency after three years was 97%. The MALE rate at three years was mainly driven by cdTLR (REA + DCB: (20%) vs. DCB: (14%), p = 0.377), while major amputations were low in both groups (REA + DCB: 3% vs. DCB: 1%). Overall, the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) rate at three years was low (REA + DCB: (5%) vs. DCB: (11%), p = 0.170). Conclusions: The EVT of severely calcified CFA lesions is safe and effective, with high three-year patency rates and low rates of major adverse limb events (MALEs) and MACEs. This registry demonstrates that vessel preparation with REA minimizes the need for stenting.
Pulsed Field Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: A Novel Technology for Safer and Faster Ablation
Authors: Carta-Bergaz Alejandro , Ríos-Muñoz Gonzalo R. , Ávila Pablo , Atienza Felipe , González-Torrecilla Esteban , Arenal Ángel
Published: September 2024

Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common arrhythmia, is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Evidence indicates that rhythm control offers superior cardiovascular outcomes compared to rate control, especially when initiated early after the diagnosis of AF. Catheter ablation remains the single best therapy for AF; however, it is not free from severe complications and only a small percentage of AF patients in the Western world ultimately receive ablation. Ensuring that AF ablation is safe, effective, and efficient is essential to make it accessible to all patients. With the limitations of traditional thermal ablative energies, pulsed field ablation (PFA) has emerged as a novel non-thermal energy source. PFA targets irreversible electroporation of cardiomyocytes to achieve cell death without damaging adjacent structures. Through its capability to create rapid, selective lesions in myocytes, PFA presents a promising alternative, offering enhanced safety, reduced procedural times, and comparable, if not superior, efficacy to thermal energies. The surge of new evidence makes it challenging to stay updated and understand the possibilities and challenges of PFA. This review aims to summarize the most significant advantages of PFA and how this has translated to the clinical arena, where four different catheters have received CE-market approval for AF ablation. Further research is needed to explore whether adding new ablation targets, previously avoided due to risks associated with thermal energies, to pulmonary vein isolation can improve the efficacy of AF ablation. It also remains to see whether a class effect exists or if different PFA technologies can yield distinct clinical outcomes given that the optimization of PFA parameters has largely been empirical.
A Flexible Hierarchical Framework for Implicit 3D Characterization of Bionic Devices
Authors: Lu Yunhong , Li Xiangnan , Li Mingliang
Published: September 2024

In practical applications, integrating three-dimensional models of bionic devices with simulation systems can predict their behavior and performance under various operating conditions, providing a basis for subsequent engineering optimization and improvements. This study proposes a framework for characterizing three-dimensional models of objects, focusing on extracting 3D structures and generating high-quality 3D models. The core concept involves obtaining the density output of the model from multiple images to enable adaptive boundary surface detection. The framework employs a hierarchical octree structure to partition the 3D space based on surface and geometric complexity. This approach includes recursive encoding and decoding of the octree structure and surface geometry, ultimately leading to the reconstruction of the 3D model. The framework has been validated through a series of experiments, yielding positive results.
A Comparison of Kawasaki Disease during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Authors: Tunçer Tunç , Varol Fatih
Published: September 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare and contrast Kawasaki disease (KD) with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the medical records of patients diagnosed with KD and MIS-C at a single institution from July 2020 to November 2021 was performed. Results: The study included 39 MIS-C patients (84.6% male) with a median age of 138 months and 17 KD patients (58.8% male) with a median age of 36 months. The MIS-C patients were older (p < 0.001) and had prolonged hospitalizations (p = 0.023), elevated neutrophil counts (p < 0.001), C-reactive protein (p < 0.001), procalcitonin (p < 0.001), interleukin-6 (p < 0.014), ferritin (p < 0.001), fibrinogen (p < 0.001), troponin I (p = 0.001), NT-proBNP (p < 0.001), and D-dimer levels (p < 0.001). There were more cases of hypotension (p = 0.024), decreased left ventricular function (p = 0.023), and a greater need for corticosteroids (p < 0.001), enoxaparin (p = 0.045), and therapeutic plasma exchange (p < 0.001). Kawasaki disease patients had a greater incidence of rash (p < 0.001), changes in oral mucosa (p < 0.001), conjunctival injection (p < 0.001), extremity changes (p < 0.001), and cervical lymphadenopathy (p < 0.001). They had a longer duration of fever (p < 0.001), elevated white blood cell count (p < 0.001), platelet count (p < 0.001), and alanine aminotransferase level (p < 0.001). The two groups were similar regarding the hemoglobin levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rates, albumin levels, and the frequency of coronary aneurysm, myocarditis, pericarditis, invasive mechanical ventilatory support, and intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. Conclusions: Advanced patient age, a greater presence of gastrointestinal and cardiac findings associated with hypotension, increased NT-proBNP levels, decreased left ventricular function, the use of various treatment modalities, and longer hospital stays suggest MIS-C, whereas prolonged fever and classical clinical features of KD favor KD.
Implication of Exclusive Breastfeeding in Early Childhood Dental Disorders: Large Cohort Evidence, US National Survey of Children Health
Authors: Holmes Laurens , Williams Janille , Thompson Neyha , John Valescia , Depeika Kerti , Ogundele Benjamin , Enwere Michael
Published: September 2024

Purpose/Objective: Frequent consumption of fermented carbohydrates and bottle feeding contribute to the development of early childhood caries (ECC). There are no substantial findings on the effects of breastfeeding patterns on oral health conditions in children in the United States. We aimed to assess the nexus between exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months and oral health disorders, namely toothache, decayed teeth, or unfilled cavities in early childhood. Materials and Methods: Design: Cross-sectional epidemiologic design of nationally representative data collected via telephone surveys in the United States was utilized. Setting: National Survey of Children’s Health, 2012 Participants: Population-based random sample of parents/guardians of 24,655 children aged 6 months to 5 years. Main Outcome and Measure: The primary outcome was the presence of oral health disorders (OHD) in children, defined as the parent-reported occurrence of one or more of the following conditions in the past 12 months: toothache, decayed teeth, or an unfilled cavity. This was assessed through a single composite question in the survey, asking parents/guardians if their child had experienced any of these specific oral health issues within the previous year with a binary (yes/no) response option. Results: Among 24,655 children aged 6 months to 5 years, 2392 (9.7%) had experienced an oral health disorder (OHD) in the previous 12 months. In unadjusted analysis, children exclusively breastfed for 6 months were 28% less likely to present with OHD compared to never-breastfed children (OR = 0.72, 95% CI, 0.52–0.98). However, after adjusting for key factors, including maternal health and race/ethnicity, this association was no longer statistically significant (aOR = 1.11, 95% CI 0.79–1.57). Significant predictors of OHD included maternal health (aOR for fair/poor vs. excellent/very good maternal health = 1.79, 95% CI 1.08–2.69) and race/ethnicity, with a higher prevalence among non-Hispanic Black (12.9%) and multi-racial children (12.6%) compared to non-Hispanic White children (7.7%). Conclusions and Relevance: While exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life was not found to be a significant predictor of pediatric oral health outcomes after adjustment, maternal health and race/ethnicity were significant determinants of oral health disorders. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive healthcare approaches that consider maternal well-being and socio-demographic factors. Future research should explore interventions targeting these factors to improve pediatric oral health outcomes.