bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Open‐label, single‐center, clinical study evaluating the safety, tolerability and clinical effects of pentosan polysulfate sodium in subjects with mucopolysaccharidosis I
Authors: Bratkovic Drago , Gravance Curtis , Ketteridge David , Krishnan Ravi , Navuru Divya , Sheehan Michael , Skerrett Donna , Imperiale Michael
Published: March 2024

Lysosomal enzyme deficiency in mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) I results in glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation leading to pain and limited physical function. Disease‐modifying treatments for MPS I, enzyme replacement, and hematopoietic stem cell therapy (HSCT), do not completely resolve MPS I symptoms, particularly skeletal manifestations. The GAG reduction, anti‐inflammatory, analgesic, and tissue remodeling properties of pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) may provide disease‐modifying treatment for musculoskeletal symptoms and joint inflammation in MPS I following ERT and/or HSCT. The safety and efficacy of PPS were evaluated in four subjects with MPS I aged 14–19 years, previously treated with ERT and/or HSCT. Subjects received doses of 0.75 mg/kg or 1.5 mg/kg PPS via subcutaneous injections weekly for 12 weeks, then every 2 weeks for up to 72 weeks. PPS was well tolerated at both doses with no serious adverse events. MPS I GAG fragment (UA‐HNAc [1S]) levels decreased at 73 weeks. Cartilage degradation biomarkers serum C‐telopeptide of crosslinked collagen (CTX) type I (CTX‐I) and type II (CTX‐II) and urine CTX‐II decreased in all subjects through 73 weeks. PROMIS scores for pain interference, pain behavior, and fatigue decreased in all subjects through 73 weeks. Physical function, measured by walking distance and dominant hand function, improved at 49 and 73 weeks. Decreased GAG fragments and cartilage degradation biomarkers, and positive PROMIS outcomes support continued study of PPS as a potential disease‐modifying treatment for MPS I with improved pain and function outcomes.
Story untold: A phenomenological study of the lived experiences impacting the career development of Black women in rehabilitation counselor education
Authors: Peterson Gemarco J. , Brooks Michael
Published: March 2024

This transcendental phenomenological study described the lived experiences impacting career development among Black women in counselor education specializing in rehabilitation counseling. Womanism centralize their voices in this inquiry, while social cognitive career theory enabled more culturally informed interpretation of their experiences. The findings facilitate correct placement of this group into the literature on employment, career development, and counselor education, and can inform policy changes, curriculum, and interventions to promote diversity and equity in the field.
Clinical implications of hepatitis B virus core antigen‐mediated immunopathologic T cell responses in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Wang Li‐Tzu , Chen Yu‐Hong , Cheng Yang , Fan Hsiu‐Lung , Chen Teng‐Wei , Shih Yu‐Lueng , Hsieh Tsai‐Yuan , Huang Wen‐Yen , Huang Wei‐Chen
Published: March 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection significantly impacts Asian populations. The influences of continuous HBV antigen and inflammatory stimulation to T cells in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remain unclear. In this study, we first conducted bioinformatics analysis to assess T‐cell signaling pathways in CHB patients. In a Taiwanese cohort, we examined the phenotypic features of HBVcore‐specific T cells and their correlation with clinical parameters. We used core protein overlapping peptides from the Taiwan prevalent genotype B HBV to investigate the antiviral response and the functional implication of HBV‐specific T cells. In line with Taiwanese dominant HLA‐alleles, we also evaluated ex vivo HBVcore‐specific T cells by pMHC‐tetramers targeting epitopes within HBV core protein. Compared to healthy subjects, we disclosed CD8 T cells from CHB patients had higher activation marker CD38 levels but showed an upregulation in the inhibitory receptor PD‐1. Our parallel study showed HBV‐specific CD8 T cells were more activated with greater PD‐1 expression than CMV‐specific subset and bulk CD8 T cells. Moreover, our longitudinal study demonstrated a correlation between the PD‐1 fluctuation pattern of HBVcore‐specific CD8 T cells and liver inflammation in CHB patients. Our research reveals the HBV core antigen‐mediated immunopathologic profile of CD8 T cells in chronic HBV infection. Our findings suggest the PD‐1 levels of HBVcore‐specific CD8 T cells can be used as a valuable indicator of personal immune response for clinical application in hepatitis management.
Functional characterization and transcriptional analysis of degQ of Xanthomonas campestris pathovar campestris
Authors: Lo Hsueh‐Hsia , Chang Hsiao‐Ching , Wu Yi‐Jyun , Liao Chao‐Tsai , Hsiao Yi‐Min
Published: March 2024

High‐temperature‐requirement protein A (HtrA) family proteins play important roles in controlling protein quality and are recognized as virulence factors in numerous animal and human bacterial pathogens. The role of HtrA family proteins in plant pathogens remains largely unexplored. Here, we investigated the HtrA family protein, DegQ, in the crucifer black rot pathogen Xanthomonas campestris pathovar campestris (Xcc). DegQ is essential for bacterial attachment and full virulence of Xcc. Moreover, the degQ mutant strain showed increased sensitivity to heat treatment and sodium dodecyl sulfate. Expressing the intact degQ gene in trans in the degQ mutant could reverse the observed phenotypic changes. In addition, we demonstrated that the DegQ protein exhibited chaperone‐like activity. Transcriptional analysis displayed that degQ expression was induced under heat treatment. Our results contribute to understanding the function and expression of DegQ of Xcc for the first time and provide a novel perspective about HtrA family proteins in plant pathogen.
Identifying low cancer‐specific mortality risk lymph node‐positive radical prostatectomy patients
Authors: Barletta Francesco , Tappero Stefano , Morra Simone , Incesu Reha‐Baris , Cano Garcia Cristina , Piccinelli Mattia L. , Scheipner Lukas , Tian Zhe , Gandaglia Giorgio , Stabile Armando , Mazzone Elio , Terrone Carlo , Longo Nicola , Tilki Derya , Chun Felix K. H. , de Cobelli Ottavio , Ahyai Sascha , Saad Fred , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Montorsi Francesco , Briganti Alberto , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To identify low cancer‐specific mortality (CSM) risk lymph node‐positive (pN1) radical prostatectomy (RP) patients.

Methods

Within Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database (2010–2015) pN1 RP patients were identified. Kaplan–Meier plots and multivariable Cox‐regression (MCR) models were used. Pathological characteristics were used to identify patients at lowest CSM risk.

Results

Overall, 2197 pN1 RP patients were identified. Overall, 5‐year cancer‐specific survival (CSS) rate was 93.3%. In MCR models ISUP GG1‐2 (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.12, p < 0.001), GG3 (HR: 0.14, p < 0.001), GG4 (HR: 0.35, p = 0.002), pT2 (HR: 0.27, p = 0.012), pT3a (HR: 0.28, p = 0.003), pT3b (HR: 0.39, p = 0.009), and 1–2 positive lymph nodes (HR: 0.64, p = 0.04) independently predicted lower CSM. Pathological characteristics subgroups with the most protective hazard ratios were used to identify low‐risk (ISUP GG1‐3 and pT2–3a and 1–2 positive lymph nodes) patients versus others (ISUP GG4‐5 or pT3b–4 or ≥3 positive lymph nodes). In Kaplan–Meier analyses, 5‐year CSS rates were 99.3% for low‐risk (n = 480, 21.8%) versus 91.8% (p < 0.001) for others (n = 1717, 78.2%).

Conclusions

Lymph node‐positive RP patients exhibit variable CSS rates. Within this heterogeneous group, those at very low risk of CSM may be identified based on pathological characteristics, namely ISUP GG1‐3, pT2–3a, and 1–2 positive lymph nodes. Such stratification scheme might be of value for individual patients counseling, as well as in design of clinical trials.
Three‐dimensional computed tomography‐based resection process map for robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy: propensity score matching of a single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Okada Atsushi , Ohashi Kazuya , Hashimoto Hiroya , Ota Yuya , Sugino Teruaki , Unno Rei , Iwatsuki Shoichiro , Etani Toshiki , Taguchi Kazumi , Naiki Taku , Kurokawa Satoshi , Hamamoto Shuzo , Ando Ryosuke , Nakane Akihiro , Kawai Noriyasu , Tozawa Keiichi , Yasui Takahiro
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives

We aimed to examine the effect of preoperative three‐dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT)‐based resection process map (RPM) imaging on the outcomes of robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 177 patients (RPM group, n = 92; non‐RPM group, n = 85) who underwent this surgery between November 2012 and April 2022. Patient‐specific contrast‐enhanced CT images were used to construct an RPM, a 3D representation of the kidney showing the planned tumor resection and a 5 mm safety margin. Outcome analyses were performed using propensity score matching. The primary endpoint was the trifecta achievement rate.

Results

We extracted 90 cases. The trifecta achievement rate showed no significant differences between the RPM (73.3%) and non‐RPM groups (73.3%). However, the RPM group had fewer Grade 3 and higher complications (0.0% vs. 13.3%, p = 0.026). The da Vinci Xi (OR 3.38, p = 0.016) and tumor diameter (OR 0.95, p = 0.013) were independent factors affecting trifecta achievement in multivariate analysis. Using RPM imaging was associated with the absence of Grade 3 and higher perioperative complications (OR 5.33, p = 0.036) in univariate analysis.

Conclusions

Using preoperative 3D CT‐based RPM images before RAPN may not affect trifecta achievement, but may reduce serious complication occurrence by providing detailed information on tumor resection.
A comparison of three different microwave systems for laparoscopic liver tumor ablation
Authors: Berber Eren , Sarioglu Ali Gunduz , Akgun Ege
Published: March 2024

Background

Our aim was to perform a comparison of three current microwave ablation (MWA) systems widely used for laparoscopic liver ablations in terms of ablation kinetics and geometry of ablation zones.

Methods

This was a retrospective, institutional review board‐approved study comparing Emprint, Emprint HP, and NeuWave systems for laparoscopic liver ablation. Analyses were performed via Mann−Whitney U and χ2 tests. Continuous data are presented as median (interquartile range).

Results

For Emprint, Emprint HP, and NeuWave groups, tumor size was 1.16 (0.8), 1.21 (0.7), and 1.27 (0.9) cm (p = 0.54). Ablation time per lesion was 7 (6), 4 (2.8), and 4 (3.3) min (p < 0.0001), yielding similar ablation zone volumes and margins. The time to first ablation bubble was 1 (0.13), 1.5 (0.85), and 0.75 (0.5) min, and total ablation times were 7 (4.4), 4 (2), and 3.5 (2.8) min (p < 0.0001). The roundness index A, B, and transverse were 0.94, 0.98, and 0.79; 0.95, 0.95, and 0.78; and 1.02, 0.95, and 0.96.

Conclusions

Although a saline‐cooling system with Emprint system allowed for larger diameter spherical ablation zones to be created, it led to decreased efficiency compared to the CO2‐cooled NeuWave system, which exposes the active antenna directly to tissue. Increased power delivered by Emprint HP improved the efficiency of saline‐cooled design, as demonstrated by faster ablation times.
Improving access to evidence‐based interventions for trauma‐exposed adults in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Kaminer Debra , Booysen Duane , Ellis Kate , Kristensen Christian Haag , Patel Anushka R. , Robjant Katy , Sardana Srishti
Published: March 2024

In low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), the mental health consequences of trauma exposure pose a substantial personal, societal, and economic burden. Yet, the significant need for evidence‐based mental health treatment remains largely unmet. To unlock the potential for mental health care for trauma survivors in lower‐resource contexts, it is critical to map treatment barriers and identify strategies to improve access to evidence‐based, culturally appropriate, and scalable interventions. This review, based on an International Society for Traumatic Stress (ISTSS) briefing paper, describes the treatment gap facing adults with traumatic stress in LMICs and identifies the barriers that contribute to this gap. We then highlight strategies for enhancing access to effective treatments for these populations, including task‐sharing, the use of culturally adapted and multiproblem interventions, and digital tools to scale access to appropriate care. Finally, we offer recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and service providers to guide an agenda for action to close the treatment gap for trauma survivors in LMICs.
Infection in osteotomy around the knee: Incidence, management and outcomes in a high‐volume case series
Authors: Hancock Graeme , Martin Rebecca , Bell Lucy , Broderick James , Dawson Matt
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Current evidence around the management of osteotomy‐related infection is insufficient to robustly underpin the expert statements formulated by a recent European consensus statement. We present a review of a large case series in a high‐volume osteotomy practice to contribute to the understanding of the incidence, management and outcome of infection in this subspecialty area.

Methods

Analyses of two prospectively collected databases for all osteotomy around the knee and infections related to osteotomy were performed, along with a review of hospital readmission data to capture all osteotomy‐related infections. Clinical notes were reviewed to assess patient demographics, incidence of infection, how infection was managed and clinical outcome.

Results

In a series of 822 osteotomies in 755 patients, there were 21 (2.8%) cases of suspected infection. Twelve (1.6%) were contemporaneously deemed ‘superficial’ and nine confirmed ‘deep’ infections (1.2%). Deep infections were all successfully managed with wound debridement, with or without plate removal, depending on union and time from initial surgery. One of these infections was noted during a revision procedure, but no revision was carried out as a direct result of infection, no external fixation was required and no infected nonunions were experienced.

Conclusion

All of the cases in this series were managed successfully with debridement ± removal of the plate, without the need for revision or external fixation. Any potential signs of infection around an osteotomy, especially in the case of medial high tibial osteotomy, should raise awareness for deep infection and the need for further surgery due to the limited overlying soft tissue cover. This evidence supports the recent European Society of Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery and Arthroscopy algorithm.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, case series.
Decreased sagittal slope of the medial tibial spine and deep concavity of the lateral tibial spine are risk factors for noncontact anterior cruciate ligament injury
Authors: Wang Shenghong , Ma Jie , Tian Cong , Feng Zhiwei , Xiang Dejian , Tang Yuchen , Geng Bin , Xia Yayi
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the relationship between the geometric features of tibial eminence and susceptibility to noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.

Methods

Patients with unilateral noncontact knee injuries between 2015 and 2021 were consecutively enroled in this study. Based on knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopic visualisation, patients were categorised into the case group (ACL rupture) and control group (ACL intact). Using MRI, the geometric features of tibial eminence were characterised by measuring the sagittal slopes, depth of concavity and coronal slopes of the inclined surfaces of the tibial spines. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were conducted to explore independent associations between quantified geometric indices of tibial eminence and the risk of noncontact ACL injuries.

Results

This study included 187 cases and 199 controls. A decreased sagittal slope of the medial tibial spine (MTSSS) (combined group: odds ratio [OR]: 0.87 [0.82, 0.92], p < 0.001; females: OR: 0.88 [0.80, 0.98], p = 0.020; males: OR: 0.87 [0.81, 0.93], p < 0.001) and an increased depth of concavity in the lateral tibial spine (LTSD) (combined group: OR: 1.51 [1.24, 1.85], p < 0.001; females: OR: 1.65 [1.12, 2.43], p = 0.012; males: OR: 1.44 [1.11, 1.89], p = 0.007) were independent risk factors for noncontact ACL injuries. Moreover, a steeper coronal slope of the inclined surface of the medial tibial spine was a significant predictor of noncontact ACL injuries for males (MTSCS: OR: 1.04 [1.01, 1.08], p = 0.015) but not for females.

Conclusion

Geometric features of tibial eminence, particularly a decreased MTSSS and an increased LTSD, were identified as independent risk factors for noncontact ACL injuries. These findings will help clinicians identify individuals at high risk of ACL injury and facilitate the development of targeted prevention strategies.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
The anteromedial retinaculum in ACL‐injured knees: An overlooked injury?
Authors: Grunenberg Ole , Gerwing Mirjam , Oeckenpöhler Simon , Peez Christian , Briese Thorben , Glasbrenner Johannes , Hägerich Luise M. , Raschke Michael J. , Kittl Christoph , Herbst Elmar
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyse the pattern of injury to the medial knee structures in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injured patients. It was hypothesised that anteromedial injuries would be more common than posteromedial lesions.

Methods

One hundred and twenty subjects aged 18–25 years with a primary ACL injury were included. Patients were excluded if the time between injury and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was more than 28 days or if a knee dislocation or fracture was present. The MRIs were analysed with particular emphasis on injuries to the medial knee structures, menisci and bone bruise patterns. Injuries to the ligaments and anteromedial retinaculum (AMR) were graded according to severity, ranging from periligamentous oedema (grade I), partial fibre disruption of less or more than 50% (grade IIa or IIb) to complete tears (grade III).

Results

AMR injury was seen in 87 subjects (72.5%) on the coronal plane and in 88 (73.3%) on the axial plane, with grade III lesions observed in 27 (22.5%) and 29 knees (24.2%). Injuries to the superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL), deep MCL (dMCL) and posterior oblique ligament (POL) were detected in 60 patients (50%), 93 patients (77.5%) and 38 patients (31.6%). However, grade III injuries to the POL were observed in only seven knees (5.8%). Medial meniscus injuries were associated with lesions of the sMCL and AMR (p < 0.05), while lateral meniscus injuries were significantly more common in patients with dMCL rupture (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Data from this study suggest that injuries to the AMR are much more common than posteromedial lesions in subjects with ACL injuries.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Detecting climate‐related shifts in lakes: A review of the use of satellite Earth Observation
Authors: Calamita Elisa , Lever J. Jelle , Albergel Clement , Woolway R. Iestyn , Odermatt Daniel
Published: March 2024

Climate change exerts a profound impact on lakes, eliciting responses that range from gradual to abrupt transitions. When reaching critical tipping points, the established lake dynamics stand to undergo substantial modifications, setting off a chain reaction that reverberates through the entire ecosystem. This lake shift ripples into related ecosystem services and even influences the well‐being of human communities. Despite the importance of lake shifts, we lack a systematic overview of their occurrence, mainly due to the lack of systematic data at the global scale. We reviewed the literature focusing on climate‐related lake shifts and assessed how satellite Earth Observation (EO) has contributed to the research topic, and what we can unlock from this novel data. Our results show that EO data are used in only 9% of studies on lake shifts, although this fraction has increased since 2012. EO data is most commonly used to assess shifts in surface extent, ice coverage, or phytoplankton phenology. These variables are directly observable and the spatio‐temporal resolution of EO satellites is of great advantage. But lake shifts can also be identified indirectly from EO data, as in the example of the vertical mixing of lake water, which can be described on the basis of surface patterns. In all possible applications, we expect increasing use of EO satellites in the future, including the development of early warning systems that promise to provide timely alerts regarding impending lake shifts, thus serving as a vanguard against abrupt alterations that could ripple through interconnected ecosystem services.
Impact of Hybrid Electromagnetic Surface Modes on the Formation of Low Spatial Frequency LIPSS: A Universal Approach
Authors: Perrakis George , Tsilipakos Odysseas , Tsibidis George D. , Stratakis Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

In this article, the impact of the excited electromagnetic surface modes in a comprehensive investigation of the formation of laser‐induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) is analyzed. It is demonstrated that the electromagnetic origin of low spatial‐frequency LIPSS (LSFL) is the frequency detuning between propagating and localized modes due to their coupling/hybridization. The influence of the pattern profile, inhomogeneity, and material type on the coupling strength, electric‐field spatial distribution, and associated near‐field scattering are highlighted. Exploiting the potential of the approach, evidence of a universal manifestation of LSFLs is provided irrespective of the material and the authors are able to predict and validate the experimentally‐proven lower limit of LSFL periodicity (i.e., λL/2, where λL stands for the laser wavelength). Furthermore, the analysis of the electromagnetic modes predicts that the periodicity of LSFL is practically unaffected by the laser fluence, while a suppression of LSFL at high excitation levels or large number of pulses is also predicted. It is also shown that plasmonic‐active materials are not necessary for LSFL formation perpendicular to polarization. Toward these directions, an important generic metric, namely the resonance quality factor, is additionally inserted. The approach can, thus, serve as a guide for controlling laser‐induced surface topography.
Ergodic properties of multiplication and weighted composition operators on spaces of holomorphic functions
Authors: Santacreu Daniel
Published: March 2024

We obtain different results about the mean ergodicity of weighted composition operators when acting on the spaces , , and , where is the open unit ball of a Banach space, as well as about the compactness and the mean ergodicity of the multiplication operator. This study relates these properties of the operators with properties of the symbol and the weight defining such operators.
ANO10‐Related Spinocerebellar Ataxia: MDSGene Systematic Literature Review and a Romani Case Series
Authors: Milovanović Andona , Westenberger Ana , Stanković Iva , Tamaš Olivera , Branković Marija , Marjanović Ana , Laabs Björn‐Hergen , Brand Max , Rajalingam Rajasumi , Marras Connie , Lohmann Katja , Branković Vesna , Novaković Ivana , Petrović Igor , Svetel Marina , Klein Christine , Kostić Vladimir S. , Dragašević‐Mišković Natasa
Published: March 2024

Background

Biallelic pathogenic variants in the ANO10 gene cause autosomal recessive progressive ataxia (ATX‐ANO10).

Methods

Following the MDSGene protocol, we systematically investigated genotype–phenotype relationships in ATX‐ANO10 based on the clinical and genetic data from 82 published and 12 newly identified patients.

Results

Most patients (>80%) had loss‐of‐function (LOF) variants. The most common variant was c.1150_1151del, found in all 29 patients of Romani ancestry, who had a 14‐year earlier mean age at onset than patients homozygous for other LOF variants. We identified previously undescribed clinical features of ATX‐ANO10 (e.g., facial muscle involvement and strabismus) suggesting the involvement of brainstem pathology, and we propose a diagnostic algorithm that may aid clinical ATX‐ANO10 diagnosis.

Conclusions

The early disease onset in patients with c.1150_1151del may indicate the existence of genetic/environmental disease‐modifying factors in the Romani population. Our findings will inform patient counseling and may improve our understanding of the disease mechanism. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Reduced cross‐scanner variability using vendor‐agnostic sequences for single‐shell diffusion MRI
Authors: Liu Qiang , Ning Lipeng , Shaik Imam Ahmed , Liao Congyu , Gagoski Borjan , Bilgic Berkin , Grissom William , Nielsen Jon‐Fredrik , Zaitsev Maxim , Rathi Yogesh
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To reduce the inter‐scanner variability of diffusion MRI (dMRI) measures between scanners from different vendors by developing a vendor‐neutral dMRI pulse sequence using the open‐source vendor‐agnostic Pulseq platform.

Methods

We implemented a standard EPI based dMRI sequence in Pulseq. We tested it on two clinical scanners from different vendors (Siemens Prisma and GE Premier), systematically evaluating and comparing the within‐ and inter‐scanner variability across the vendors, using both the vendor‐provided and Pulseq dMRI sequences. Assessments covered both a diffusion phantom and three human subjects, using standard error (SE) and Lin's concordance correlation to measure the repeatability and reproducibility of standard DTI metrics including fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD).

Results

Identical dMRI sequences were executed on both scanners using Pulseq. On the phantom, the Pulseq sequence showed more than a 2.5× reduction in SE (variability) across Siemens and GE scanners. Furthermore, Pulseq sequences exhibited markedly reduced SE in‐vivo, maintaining scan‐rescan repeatability while delivering lower variability in FA and MD (more than 50% reduction in cortical/subcortical regions) compared to vendor‐provided sequences.

Conclusion

The Pulseq diffusion sequence reduces the cross‐scanner variability for both phantom and in‐vivo data, which will benefit multi‐center neuroimaging studies and improve the reproducibility of neuroimaging studies.
Intra‐scan RF power amplifier drift correction
Authors: Aghaeifar Ali , Bosch Dario , Heule Rahel , Williams Sydney , Ehses Philipp , Mauconduit Franck , Scheffler Klaus
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The drift in radiofrequency (RF) power amplifiers (RFPAs) is assessed and several contributing factors are investigated. Two approaches for prospective correction of drift are proposed and their effectiveness is evaluated.

Methods

RFPA drift assessment encompasses both intra‐pulse and inter‐pulse drift analyses. Scan protocols with varying flip angle (FA), RF length, and pulse repetition time (TR) are used to gauge the influence of these parameters on drift. Directional couplers (DICOs) monitor the forward waveforms of the RFPA outputs. DICOs data is stored for evaluation, allowing calculation of correction factors to adjust RFPAs' transmit voltage. Two correction methods, predictive and run‐time, are employed: predictive correction necessitates a calibration scan, while run‐time correction calculates factors during the ongoing scan.

Results

RFPA drift is indeed influenced by the RF duty‐cycle, and in the cases examined with a maximum duty‐cycle of 66%, the potential drift is approximately 41% or 15%, depending on the specific RFPA revision. Notably, in low transmit voltage scenarios, FA has minimal impact on RFPA drift. The application of predictive and run‐time drift correction techniques effectively reduces the average drift from 10.0% to less than 1%, resulting in enhanced MR signal stability.

Conclusion

Utilizing DICO recordings and implementing a feedback mechanism enable the prospective correction of RFPA drift. Having a calibration scan, predictive correction can be utilized with fewer complexity; for enhanced performance, a run‐time approach can be employed.
Social impairment in survivors of pediatric brain tumors via reduced social attention and emotion‐specific facial expression recognition
Authors: Fantozzi Peter M. , Anil Ashley , McHugh Sean , Srsich Alannah R. , Zope Manali , Parish‐Morris Julia , Schultz Robert T. , Herrington John , Hocking Matthew C.
Published: March 2024

Background/objectives

Survivors of pediatric brain tumors (SPBT) experience significant social challenges, including fewer friends and greater isolation than peers. Difficulties in face processing and visual social attention have been implicated in these outcomes. This study evaluated facial expression recognition (FER), social attention, and their associations with social impairments in SPBT.

Methods

SPBT (N = 54; ages 7–16) at least 2 years post treatment completed a measure of FER, while parents completed measures of social impairment. A subset (N = 30) completed a social attention assessment that recorded eye gaze patterns while watching videos depicting pairs of children engaged in joint play. Social Prioritization scores were calculated, with higher scores indicating more face looking. Correlations and regression analyses evaluated associations between variables, while a path analysis modeling tool (PROCESS) evaluated the indirect effects of Social Prioritization on social impairments through emotion‐specific FER.

Results

Poorer recognition of angry and sad facial expressions was significantly correlated with greater social impairment. Social Prioritization was positively correlated with angry FER but no other emotions. Social Prioritization had significant indirect effects on social impairments through angry FER.

Conclusion

Findings suggest interventions aimed at improving recognition of specific emotions may mitigate social impairments in SPBT. Further, reduced social attention (i.e., diminished face looking) could be a factor in reduced face processing ability, which may result in social impairments. Longitudinal research is needed to elucidate temporal associations between social attention, face processing, and social impairments.
Biomimetic mineralization of silicon dioxide onto carbon fiber for elevated interfacial properties and hydrothermal aging resistance of carbon fiber/epoxy composites
Authors: Yan Fei , Wang Junming , Li Gang , Dai Shengtao , Ao Yuhui , Liu Liu
Published: March 2024

A carbon fiber‐tannic acid‐silicon dioxide (CF‐TA‐SiO2) reinforcement with a “diatom frustule‐like” structure was built via biomimetic mineralization to boost the performance of carbon fiber/epoxy resin (CF/EP) composites. As a bio‐based polyphenolic compound, TA was used to modulate the mineralization of SiO2, and the easy agglomeration of SiO2 was effectively avoided. The interfacial adhesion of the CF/EP composites was considerably heightened by improving the roughness and wettability of CF as well as by increasing the interfacial interactions between CF and the EP. Compared with the pristine composites, the flexural strength, interlaminar shear strength and interfacial shear strength of the CF‐TA‐SiO2/EP composites increased by 41.2%, 56.6%, and 50.4%, respectively. Moreover, the introduction of Si‐O‐Si and C‐O‐Si bonds at the interface led to a remarkable improvement in the hydrothermal aging resistance. This research provides a novel interfacial design for advanced composites with excellent interfacial properties, which broadens the application of these composites in hygrothermal environments.

Highlights

A “diatom frustules‐like” structure was successfully constructed on the CF surface.

This biomimetic mineralization was simple and environmentally friendly.

This method solved the problem of easy agglomeration of SiO2.

The interfacial properties of composites were obviously improved.

The hydrothermal aging resistance of composites was enhanced.
Functionalized hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin derivative as a versatile nanovehicle for delivery of paclitaxel
Authors: Liang Na , Yan Caixia , Liu Zhenrong , Hu Wenlong , Jiang Kun , Li Gang , Sun Shaoping
Published: March 2024

To improve the therapeutic efficiency of paclitaxel (PTX) and reduce its toxicity to normal tissues, a novel hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (HP‐β‐CD) derivative has been designed and developed. The polymer (bio‐HP‐β‐CD(NAC)‐PLA) is synthesized by modifying HP‐β‐CD with polylactic acid, cysteine, and biotin. Using bio‐HP‐β‐CD(NAC)‐PLA as the carrier, a PTX‐loaded nanoparticulate system is developed by a modified emulsion solvent evaporation method. The optimized drug‐loaded nanoparticles are obtained with a mean diameter of 162.4 nm and drug loading of 16.1%. In vitro drug release study exhibits that PTX is released in a redox‐dependent manner. Cellular uptake study suggests that the bio‐HP‐β‐CD(NAC)‐PLA nanoparticles can be specifically taken up by MCF‐7 cells via the biotin receptor‐mediated endocytosis. In vitro and in vivo anticancer efficacy evaluations demonstrate the superior antitumor activity and negligible toxicity of the PTX‐loaded nanoparticles. It can be concluded that the proposed polymer bio‐HP‐β‐CD(NAC)‐PLA offers a promising drug delivery system for targeted delivery and controlled release of PTX.
Structure and properties evolution of UV crosslinked ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene fiber during processing
Authors: Dong Tianhong , Niu Fangfang , Qiang Zhe , Wang Xinpeng , Guo Jungu , Wang Yimin , He Yong
Published: March 2024

With the development of heat and creep‐resistant UHMWPE fiber via UV crosslinking, its structure‐properties evolution during processing needs attention. The structures of UHMWPE fiber in different forms, the pre‐oriented yarn (POY), the full stretch yarn (FDY) and UV crosslinked FDY (UVFDY), obtained from our pilot line were systematically studied with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), and solid‐state 13C NMR. Additionally, the heat and creep resistance of UVFDY were evaluated by the temperature at break (Tb), glass transition temperature (Tg), time at break (tb) for a given aging temperature, and creep elongation (Lc). The results demonstrated that UVFDY possessed high gel content (89.0%), high crystallinity (84.2%), and high orientation (91.7%). These characteristics caused UVFDY not only with excellent mechanical properties but also process extraordinary heat and creep resistance, especially for its much higher Tb (220 °C), Tg (−75.7 °C) and tb (20 h) while lower Lc (7.8%), comparing with FDY (Tb = 158 °C, Tg = −86.8 °C, tb = 1.3 h and Lc = 38.2%). This work provides insights into the structure‐properties relationship of UVFDY, which will aid in the development of UV crosslinked UHMWPE fiber with better heat and creep resistance.
Design of Vaterite Nanoparticles for Controlled Delivery of Active Immunotherapeutic Proteins
Authors: Nelemans Levi Collin , Choukrani Ghizlane , Ustyanovska‐Avtenyuk Natasha , Wiersma Valerie R , Dähne Lars , Bremer Edwin
Published: March 2024

Despite clinical advances in immunotherapy, still many therapeutics cause dose‐limiting (auto)immune‐mediated toxicities. Nanoparticle‐based drug delivery systems (DDS) can improve cancer immunotherapy through site‐specific delivery and controlled release of immunotherapeutics in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, DDS face several challenges, including unspecific release. To address this, vaterite nanoparticles (VNPs) that selectively release immunotherapeutic proteins at low pH conditions find in the TME, are established previously. In the current study, these VNPs are further modified for active targeting without affecting the loaded protein activity, exemplified with Tumor Necrosis Factor α (TNF). Specifically, VNPs are coated with gelatin, a matrix‐metalloprotease sensitive polymer which provides functional groups for further conjugation. Subsequently, streptavidin is covalently linked to the gelatin shell by amine‐epoxy chemistry, enabling coupling of any biotinylated ligand. Exemplified by biotinylated cetuximab and rituximab, targeted VNPs selectively bind to cells expressing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or CD20, respectively. Importantly, TNF remains functionally active after the modification steps, as VNP treatment increased ICAM‐1 expression on FaDu cells and activated NFκB signaling in a Jurkat.NFκB‐luciferase cell line model. In conclusion, a targetable vaterite‐based DDS is produced that allows for easy surface modification with any biotinylated ligand that may find broad applications in tumor‐selective immunotherapy.
Supporting the transfer of knowledge in high‐risk major accident environment
Authors: Kryštof David , Adamec Petr , Kotek Luboš , Tichá Zuzana , Trávníček Petr
Published: March 2024

A key element in learning from accidents is the skill associated with the transfer of knowledge gained by the operator from historical incidents. These incidents can include accidents and near‐misses that occurred on site or in similar companies outside the plant. Knowledge transfer within the enterprise can be supported by a suitable framework or model that is easily understood by a wide range of people who are interested in the lessons learned from accidents. The application of some of the knowledge transfer models used so far can be quite time consuming and uncomfortable for the participants. For this reason, this paper aims to propose a simple model designed to support knowledge transfer. This model is proposed based on the widely used PDCA (plan‐do‐check‐act) framework. Its use is demonstrated by the case of a major accident that occurred in the Czech Republic. The model can be used not only for learning from major accidents that occur in the subject company but also for learning from near‐misses or events that occurred in the past in similar plants. Thus, the model can easily help in increasing the efficiency of the accident‐learning system in particular.
Hormetic effect induced by Beauveria bassiana in Myzus persicae
Authors: Arinanto Leonhard Satrio , Hoffmann Ary Anthony , Ross Perran Albert , Gu Xinyue
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Myzus persicae, a serious sap‐sucking pest of a large variety of host plants in agriculture, is traditionally controlled using chemical insecticides but there is interest in using biopesticides as restrictions are increasingly placed on the use of broad‐spectrum pesticides.

RESULTS

Here, we show that in Petri dish experiments, high concentrations of the fungal entomopathogen Beauveria bassiana led to rapid mortality of M. persicae, although at a low concentration (1 × 104 conidia mL−1) there is a hormetic effect in which survival and fecundity are enhanced. Hormetic effects persisted across a generation with reduced development time and increased fecundity in the offspring of M. persicae exposed to B. bassiana. The whole‐plant experiment points to a hormetic effect being detected in two out of three tested lines. The impact of these effects might also depend on whether M. persicae was transinfected with the endosymbiont Rickettsiella viridis, which decreases fecundity and survival compared with aphids lacking this endosymbiont. This fecundity cost was ameliorated in the generation following exposure to the entomopathogen.

CONCLUSION

Although B. bassiana is effective in controlling M. persicae especially at higher spore concentrations, utilization of this entomopathogen requires careful consideration of hormetic effects at lower spore concentrations, and further research to optimize its application for sustainable agriculture is recommended. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Utility of thermal remote sensing for evaluation of a high‐resolution weather model in a city
Authors: Hall Thomas W. , Blunn Lewis , Grimmond Sue , McCarroll Niall , Merchant Christopher J. , Morrison William , Shonk Jonathan K. P. , Lean Humphrey , Best Martin
Published: March 2024

Progress in high‐resolution numerical weather prediction (NWP) for urban areas will require new modelling approaches and extensive evaluation. Here, we exploit land surface temperature (LST) data from Landsat‐8 to assess 100 m resolution NWP for London (UK) on four cloud‐free days. The LST observations are directional radiometric temperatures with non‐negligible uncertainties. We consider the challenges of informative comparison between the Landsat LST and the NWP scheme's internal characterisation of the complete surface temperature. The LST spatial coverage allows large‐scale observation–model differences to be explored. In one case, obvious spatial artifacts in the NWP surface temperature are observed relative to the Landsat LST. These are found to be related to the NWP's initial method of downscaling of soil moisture using soil properties. Updated model runs have higher spatial correlation between model and Landsat LST. In cases where meteorological conditions favour the formation of horizontal convective rolls, warmer air temperatures associated with updraughts in the mixed layer extend inappropriately to the urban surface. This manifests as warm stripes in the model surface temperature that are not present in the Landsat LST. NWP–Landsat LST differences are larger in more built‐up areas on days nearer summer solstice. This is largely attributed to urban thermal anisotropy, as Landsat preferentially views warmer urban surfaces, whereas the model LST represents all surfaces. We evaluate two approaches to quantify this sampling effect, but further work is needed to fully constrain it and facilitate more informative model evaluation.
Perturbations in human bile acid profiles following drug‐induced liver injury investigated using semitargeted high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Mireault Myriam , Rose Christopher F. , Karvellas Constantine J. , Sleno Lekha
Published: March 2024

Rationale

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is the leading cause of acute liver failure (ALF) in North America. To investigate the effect of drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) on circulating bile acid (BA) profiles, serum from ALF patients and healthy controls were analyzed using a semitargeted high‐resolution mass spectrometry approach to measure BAs in their unconjugated and amidated forms and their glucuronide and sulfate conjugates.

Methods

Human serum samples from 20 healthy volunteers and 34 ALF patients were combined with deuterated BAs and extracted, prior to liquid chromatography high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry analysis. A mix of 46 standards helped assign 26 BAs in human serum by accurate mass and retention time matching. Moreover, other isomers of unconjugated and amidated BAs, as well as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates, were assigned by accurate mass filtering. In vitro incubations of standard BAs provided increased information for certain peaks of interest.

Results

A total of 275 BA metabolites, with confirmed or putative assignments, were measured in human serum samples. APAP overdose significantly influenced the levels of most BAs, promoting glycine conjugation, and, to a lesser extent, taurine conjugation. When patient outcome was considered, 11 BAs were altered significantly, including multiple sulfated species. Although many of the BAs measured did not have exact structures assigned, several putatively identified BAs of interest were further characterized using in vitro incubations.

Conclusion

An optimized chromatographic separation tailored to BAs of ranging polarities was combined with accurate mass measurements to investigate the effect that DILI has on their complex profiles and metabolism to a much wider extent than previously possible. The analysis of complex BA profiles enabled in‐depth analysis of the BA metabolism perturbations in ALF, including certain metabolites related to patient outcomes.
The roles of sex hormones in the pathophysiology of age‐related sarcopenia and frailty
Authors: Hosoi Tatsuya , Yakabe Mitsutaka , Hashimoto Seiji , Akishita Masahiro , Ogawa Sumito
Published: March 2024

Background

Sarcopenia is an age‐related condition characterized by a progressive and systemic decline in skeletal muscle mass, quality, and strength. The incidence of sarcopenia contains sex‐specific aspects, indicating the contribution of sex hormones to its pathophysiology. This review focuses on changing trends in sarcopenia, discusses alterations in definitions and diagnostic criteria, and emphasizes the association between sarcopenia and sex hormones.

Methods

A literature search was performed on PubMed for related articles published between 1997 and December 2023 using appropriate keywords.

Main Findings (Results)

Advances in research have emphasized the significance of muscle quality and strength over muscle mass, resulting in new diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia. Androgens demonstrated anabolic effects on skeletal muscles and played a significant role in the pathophysiology of sarcopenia. In clinical settings, androgen replacement therapy has exhibited certain positive outcomes for treating sarcopenia, despite concerns about potential side effects. Conversely, estrogen is involved in skeletal muscle maintenance, but the detailed mechanisms remain unclear. Moreover, results regarding the clinical application of estrogen replacement therapy for treating sarcopenia remained inconsistent.

Conclusion

The elucidation of molecular mechanisms that involve sex hormones is eagerly awaited for novel therapeutic interventions for sarcopenia.
A filtering‐based recursive extended least squares algorithm and its convergence for finite impulse response moving average systems
Authors: Zheng Jiayun , Ding Feng
Published: March 2024

This article considers the parameter identification problems of stochastic systems which described by the finite impulse response moving average model. Since the system is disturbed by colored noise, we introduce the data filtering technique from a view point of improving the parameter estimation accuracy. The data filtering technique is to use a filter to filter the input and output data of the system disturbed by colored noise so as to improve the identification accuracy. By using the data filtering technique, this article proposes a filtering‐based recursive extended least squares (F‐RELS) algorithm. The convergence analysis indicates that the parameter estimates can converge to their true values. Compared with the recursive extended least squares algorithm, the proposed F‐RELS algorithm can obtain more accurate parameter estimation. Finally, a numerical simulation example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.