bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lock-in spectrum: a tool for representing long-term evolution of bearing fault in the time–frequency domain using vibration signal
Authors: Zhang Meng
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to propose a method for monitoring bearing health in the time–frequency domain, termed the Lock-in spectrum, to track the evolution of bearing faults over time and frequency.

Design/methodology/approach

The Lock-in spectrum uses vibration signals captured by vibration sensors and uses a lock-in process to analyze specified frequency bands. It calculates the distribution of signal amplitudes around fault characteristic frequencies over short time intervals.

Findings

Experimental results demonstrate that the Lock-in spectrum effectively captures the degradation process of bearings from fault inception to complete failure. It provides time-varying information on fault frequencies and amplitudes, enabling early detection of fault growth, even in the initial stages when fault signals are weak. Compared to the benchmark short-time Fourier transform method, the Lock-in spectrum exhibits superior expressive ability, allowing for higher-resolution, long-term monitoring of bearing condition.

Originality/value

The proposed Lock-in spectrum offers a novel approach to bearing health monitoring by capturing the dynamic evolution of fault frequencies over time. It surpasses traditional methods by providing enhanced frequency resolution and early fault detection capabilities.
Effects of soldering temperatures and composition on the microstructures and shear properties of Sn58Bi-xSAC0307/ENIG solder joints
Authors: Jiang Mengxia , Liu Yang , Xue Yuxiong , Shan Guangbao , Lv Jun , Huang Mairui
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to systematically study the effects of reflow temperature and SAC0307 (SAC) content on the micromorphology and mechanical properties of Sn58Bi-xSAC0307 composite solder joints to meet the requirements of high integration and low-temperature packaging of devices and provide references for the application of composite solder joints.

Design/methodology/approach

Sn58Bi and SAC0307 solder paste was mechanically mixed in different proportions to prepare Sn58Bi-xSAC0307/ENIG solder joints. The thermal properties, microstructure and mechanical properties of the composite solder joints were studied.

Findings

As SAC content in the solder increases, the balling temperature of SnBi-SAC solder gradually increases. The addition of SAC alloy reduces the grain size of large Bi-rich phase, and there are small-sized dispersed Bi and Ag3Sn particles in the bulk solder. The intermetallic compounds composition of the SnBi-xSAC/ENIG solder joint changes from Ni3Sn4 to (Ni, Cu)3Sn4 and (Cu, Ni)6Sn5 with SAC increasing. As the soldering temperature increases, the strength of all solder joints shows a rising trend. Among them, the shear strength of SnBi-20SAC solder joints at a reflow temperature of 150°C is approximately 37 MPa. As the reflow temperature increases to 250°C, the shear strength of solder joints increases to approximately 67 MPa.

Originality/value

This study provides a reference for the optimization of low-temperature solder composition and soldering process under different package designs.
Towards dynamic decision-making in government as service organization: insights from systems thinking
Authors: Carrubbo Luca , Cosimato Silvia , Gagliardi Anna Roberta
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Service organizations operate in an increasingly complex and uncertain context that makes decision-making challenging. Despite well-recognized changes in the operational context of government as service organization, service literature has given surprisingly limited attention to what these changes imply for organizational decision-making. This study aims to face with the lack of fit of decision-making theorizing with the reality, within which most service practitioners operate, in order to foster the relevance of decision-making in service research and properly approach the false assumptions and misguided instructions for action.

Design/methodology/approach

To rectify the situation, the purpose of this paper is to advance a more holistic understanding of decision-making in government as service organization. The authors do so by reviewing the sparse, though insightful, prior literature on decision-making in service research and identifying four foundational assumptions of decision-making in the service context, that radically differ from the traditional assumptions of decision-making within the wider management literature.

Findings

The authors contribute to service research by further advancing the emerging dynamic understanding of decision-making by developing eight systems thinking-informed research propositions and a connected research agenda. In doing so, the paper offers the essential ground work that can revitalize the field of service management and equip it for facing the challenges that government as service organization is encountering in the 21st century.

Originality/value

The formulated eight research propositions demonstrate that decision-making in a government as service organization occurs within complex adaptive systems composed of multiple subsystems and is characterized by a high degree of unpredictability. It is a process influenced by multiple actors part of the system and subsystems, through multiple feedback loops, where the implications of prior decisions inform the future decisions.
Using the children’s accelerated trauma technique with adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: O'Farrell Kevin , Garner Nick , Symes Matt
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore using the children’s accelerated trauma technique (CATT) in an adult intellectual disability population, with the aim of reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Design/methodology/approach

A service evaluation was completed to investigate differences between pre- and post-CATT trauma scores.

Findings

Scores on a measure of PTSD decreased significantly following CATT.

Practical implications

The findings support continued use of CATT in adults with intellectual disabilities, and they highlight the need to evaluate effectiveness in a larger sample.

Originality/value

This paper evaluates the novel application of a trauma treatment – developed for use with children – in an adult intellectual disability population and adds to the existing evidence base.
Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa characterized by mucosal lesions in a Chinese familial case with a novel compound heterozygous mutation of COL7A1
Authors: Lan Qingying , Hua Hong , Zhou Peiru
Published: July 2024

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is a rare, but severe, subtype of epidermolysis bullosa. It is characterized mainly by blisters and miliary rashes of the skin, while oral mucosa‐dominated cases are extremely rare. Here, we report the characteristics of oral mucosa lesions in a Chinese familial case of DEB with a novel compound heterozygous COL7A1 mutation. We further analyzed the genetic and molecular features of the proband and the two related mutation carriers. Our study further elucidates the genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity of DEB.
Salvage logging and subsequent post‐windthrow management diminish forest bird communities for two decades
Authors: Walesiak Michał , Michielsen Rosanne , Mikusiński Grzegorz , Żmihorski Michał
Published: July 2024

Post‐disturbance forest management is known to impair biodiversity, including bird communities, but most studies focus on short‐term effects of salvage logging, without recognition of the cumulative, lasting impact of collective post‐disturbance silvicultural practices.

We tracked bird community succession in a temperate pine forest from 5 to 19 years after wind disturbance in managed and unmanaged windthrow areas, covering the period from gap creation to early canopy regeneration and comparing it to nearby production forest unaffected by wind disturbance.

Bird communities of unmanaged windthrow were consistently the richest in terms of bird abundance and richness. They hosted comparable forest bird diversity to unaffected production stands throughout the study period, as well as a substantial diversity of farmland birds.

Managed and unmanaged windthrows followed two distinct successional pathways and did not converge. Despite the bird communities in both windthrows gradually resembling those found in undisturbed forests as the canopy regenerated, each type of windthrow and the unaffected production forest maintained distinct communities until the end of the study.

Synthesis and applications. Restraining from any active post‐windthrow management sets bird succession on a distinct pathway, leading to unique and diverse bird communities. We advocate viewing natural disturbances as cost‐effective ecosystem restoration tools, provided no active management is implemented. Furthermore, we advise against using the term ‘salvage logging’ to refer to collective post‐disturbance silvicultural practices, as its varying interpretation may lead to growing confusion as the number of long‐term studies increase.
Quercetin‐4′‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside inhibits podocyte injury by SIRT5‐mediated desuccinylation of NEK7
Authors: Wu Menghua , Ye Xiaoli
Published: July 2024

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a complication of diabetic mellitus. New treatments need to be developed. This study aimed to investigate the effects of quercetin‐4′‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (QODG) on podocyte injury. Podocytes were cultured in high glucose (HG) medium, treated with QODG, and overexpressing or knocking down SIRT5. Oxidative stress indicators were assessed using corresponding kits. Pyroptosis was detected by flow cytometry and western blot analysis. Succinylation modification was detected using immunoprecipitation (IP) and western blot analysis. The interaction between NEK7 and NLRP3 was determined by co‐IP. The results indicated that QODG inhibited oxidative stress and pyroptosis of podocytes induced by HG. Besides, QODG suppressed succinylation levels in HG‐induced podocytes, with the upregulation of SIRT5. Knockdown of SIRT5 reversed the effects of QODG on oxidative stress and pyroptosis. Moreover, SIRT5 inhibited the succinylation of NEK7 and the interaction between NLRP3 and NEK7. In conclusion, QODG upregulates SIRT5 to inhibit the succinylation modification of NEK7, impedes the interaction between NEK7 and NLRP3, and then inhibits the pyroptosis and oxidative stress injury of podocytes under HG conditions. The findings suggested that QODG has the potential to treat DKD and explore a novel underlying mechanism of QODG function.
Comprehensive genetic analysis reveals the genetic structure and diversity of Calanthe hoshii (Orchidaceae), an endemic species of the Ogasawara Islands: Implications for appropriate conservation of a critically endangered species
Authors: Katafuchi Mayu , Narita Satoshi , Komaki Yoshiteru , Nagano Atsushi J. , Yukawa Tomohisa , Suyama Yoshihisa , Hirota Shun K. , Yamasaki Michimasa , Isagi Yuji
Published: July 2024

The Ogasawara Islands, isolated from the continent throughout their geological history, harbor abundant endemic species. However, 32% of the native plant species are on the Japanese Red List, signaling their endangered status. Among these endangered species, Calanthe hoshii stands out as highly susceptible to extinction. Two wild and 89 ex situ individuals were alive in 2020, but the last known wild individual died in October 2021, indicating this species may have become extinct in the wild. Despite the conservation efforts under the Act for the Conservation of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, the lack of essential information regarding genetic diversity and population structure among the remaining individuals poses a significant obstacle to developing effective conservation measures. In this research, we conducted a genetic analysis of the wild and ex situ individuals, which revealed notably reduced genetic diversity between individuals, with individual heterozygosity levels (1.0 × 10−5) measuring one‐ninth of those observed within a closely related species Calanthe triplicata (1.5 × 10−4). Comprehensive genetic analysis revealed that C. hoshii consisted of three genetic clusters of different sizes: cluster 1 comprised 95% of the total population, while clusters 2 and 3, with few individuals, were only found in the ex situ populations at Koishikawa Botanical Garden. Since extant C. hoshii maintains a remarkably low genetic diversity at both individual and population levels, it is necessary to consider future management strategies, such as artificial breeding among different clades identified in this study, to safeguard the stability and resilience of this species.
Genome‐based taxonomic analysis of the genus Pseudoalteromonas reveals heterotypic synonyms
Authors: Videau Patrick , Shlafstein Maximillian D. , Oline David K. , Givan Scott A. , Chapman Linda Fleet , Strangman Wendy K. , Hahnke Richard L. , Saw Jimmy H. , Ushijima Blake
Published: July 2024

The Pseudoalteromonas genus comprises members that have been demonstrated to play significant ecological roles and produce enzymes, natural products, and activities that are beneficial to the environment and economy. A comprehensive evaluation of the genus revealed that the genomes of several Pseudoalteromonas species are highly similar to each other, exceeding species cutoff values. This evaluation involved determining and comparing the average nucleotide identity, in silico DNA–DNA hybridization, average amino acid identity, and the difference in G + C% between Pseudoalteromonas type strains with publicly available genomes. The genome of the Pseudoalteromonas elyakovii type strain was further assessed through additional sequencing and genomic comparisons to historical sequences. These findings suggest that six Pseudoalteromonas species, namely P. mariniglutinosa, P. donghaensis, P. maricaloris, P. elyakovii, P. profundi, and P. issachenkonii, should be reclassified as later heterotypic synonyms of the following validly published species: P. haloplanktis, P. lipolytica, P. flavipulchra, P. distincta, P. gelatinilytica, and P. tetraodonis. Furthermore, two names without valid standing, ‘P. telluritireducens’ and ‘P. spiralis’, should be associated with the validly published Pseudoalteromonas species P. agarivorans and P. tetraodonis, respectively.
When the going gets tough, the tough get going—Novel bacterial AAA+ disaggregases provide extreme heat resistance
Authors: Bohl Valentin , Mogk Axel
Published: July 2024

Heat stress can lead to protein misfolding and aggregation, potentially causing cell death due to the loss of essential proteins. Bacteria, being particularly exposed to environmental stress, are equipped with disaggregases that rescue these aggregated proteins. The bacterial Hsp70 chaperone DnaK and the ATPase associated with diverse cellular activities protein ClpB form the canonical disaggregase in bacteria. While this combination operates effectively during physiological heat stress, it is ineffective against massive aggregation caused by temperature‐based sterilization protocols used in the food industry and clinics. This leaves bacteria unprotected against these thermal processes. However, bacteria that can withstand extreme, man‐made stress conditions have emerged. These bacteria possess novel ATPase associated with diverse cellular activities disaggregases, ClpG and ClpL, which are key players in extreme heat resistance. These disaggregases, present in selected Gram‐negative or Gram‐positive bacteria, respectively, function superiorly by exhibiting increased thermal stability and enhanced threading power compared to DnaK/ClpB. This enables ClpG and ClpL to operate at extreme temperatures and process large and tight protein aggregates, thereby contributing to heat resistance. The genes for ClpG and ClpL are often encoded on mobile genomic islands or conjugative plasmids, allowing for their rapid spread among bacteria via horizontal gene transfer. This threatens the efficiency of sterilization protocols. In this review, we describe the various bacterial disaggregases identified to date, characterizing their commonalities and the specific features that enable these novel disaggregases to provide stress protection against extreme stress conditions.
Clinicians' experiences and perceptions of family therapy in the context of autism
Authors: Hsiang Cindy H. T. , Campbell Linda , Tavener Meredith
Published: July 2024

There is a paradoxical paradigm operating in neurodiverse families with autistic children, indicating increased stress alongside enrichment of family life. An emerging body of research has shown that the use of family therapy can improve family functioning and relationships in neurodiverse families. The current study uses constructivist grounded theory to explore clinicians' experiences and perceptions of utilising family therapy in the context of autism. Study findings suggest that clinicians integrate therapeutic techniques from diverse family therapy approaches to improve family relations by bridging different ways of learning and communicating as well as facilitating multiple perspectives. Integrating therapeutic techniques across diverse approaches further encompasses working with the systems around the individual with autism. To adapt family therapy in the context of autism, it is suggested that clinicians examine their own perspectives and beliefs about autism and keep a curious stance during the process.
Policy Recommendations for Coordinated and Sustainable Growth of the Behavioral Health Workforce
Authors: LAST BRIANA S. , CRABLE ERIKA L.
Published: July 2024

Policy Points

Demand for behavioral health services outpaces the capacity of the existing workforce, and the unmet need for behavioral health services is expected to grow.

This paper summarizes research and policy evidence demonstrating that the long‐standing challenges that impede behavioral health workforce development and retention (i.e., low wages, high workloads, training gaps) are being replicated by growing efforts to expand the workforce through task‐sharing delivery to nonspecialist behavioral health providers (e.g., peer specialists, promotores de salud).

In this paper, we describe policy opportunities to sustain behavioral health workforce growth to meet demand while supporting fair wages, labor protections, and rigorous training.
Alcohol‐Specific Inpatient Diagnoses in Germany: A Retrospective Cross‐Sectional Analysis of Primary and Secondary Diagnoses from 2012 to 2021
Authors: Manthey Jakob , Jacobsen Britta , Kilian Carolin , Kraus Ludwig , Reimer Jens , Schäfer Ingo , Schulte Bernd
Published: July 2024

Aims

Our study aimed to a) describe the distribution of hospital discharges with primary and secondary alcohol‐specific diagnoses by sex and age group, and b) describe how the number of hospital discharges with primary and secondary alcohol‐specific diagnoses have changed across different diagnostic groups (categorized by primary International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision [ICD‐10] diagnosis) over time.

Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional analysis.

Setting

German hospital settings between 2012 and 2021.

Participants

All persons aged 15–69 admitted to hospitals as registered in a nationwide data set.

Measurements

We counted a) the number of all hospital discharges and b) the number of hospital discharges with at least one alcohol‐specific secondary diagnosis (secondary alcohol‐specific diagnosis) by year, sex, age group, and diagnostic group. One diagnostic group included all primary alcohol‐specific diagnoses, while 13 additional groups aligned with ICD‐10 chapters (e.g., neoplasms). Alcohol‐involvement was defined as either a primary or secondary alcohol‐specific diagnosis.

Findings

Of 95 417 204 recorded hospital discharges between 2012 and 2021, 3 828 917 discharges (4.0%; 2 913 903 men (6.4%); 915 014 women (1.8%)) involved either a primary or at least one secondary diagnosis related to alcohol. Of all alcohol‐involved hospital discharges, 56.8% (1 654 736 discharges) had no primary but only a secondary alcohol‐specific diagnosis. Secondary alcohol‐specific diagnoses were particularly prevalent in hospital discharges due to injuries. With rising age, alcohol‐involvement in hospital discharges due to digestive or cardiovascular diseases increased. Between 2012 and 2021, the rate of alcohol‐involved hospital discharges has decreased more in younger as compared with older adults (average change between 2012 and 2021: 15–24: −55%; 25–34: −41%; 35–44: −23%; 45–54: −31%; 55–64: −21%; 65–69: −8%).

Conclusions

The number of alcohol‐involved hospital discharges in Germany from 2012 to 2021 more than doubles (from 1 654 736 to 3 828 917) when including secondary alcohol‐specific diagnoses. More pronounced declines among younger adults may be attributed to unequal changes in alcohol consumption patterns across the population and to the hazardous effects of long‐term alcohol use.
Peri‐operative care of transgender and gender‐diverse individuals: guidance for clinicians and departments
Authors: Edwardson Stuart , Flower Luke , Fawcett Erik , Medlock Rebecca , Cheung Ada S. , Kamaruddin Kamilla , McCormack Victoria L. , Agarwal Seema
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The objective of this document is to guide best practice to ensure the safety and dignity of transgender and gender‐diverse people in the peri‐operative period. While transgender and gender‐diverse people may have specific health needs in relation to gender dysphoria, their health requirements go beyond their gender identity. Most doctors will provide care to someone who is transgender or gender‐diverse at some stage in their career. It is therefore important that all anaesthetists are educated on specific considerations when caring for these patients.

Methods

A working party was assembled consisting of individuals with experience in direct clinical care of the relevant patient group, those who have expertise in endocrinology and gender‐affirming hormones, educators on the topic of transgender and gender‐diverse healthcare, and authors of both cisgender and transgender identities. After discussion among the working party, targeted searches of literature were undertaken.

Results

The authors initially came up with a list of over 25 recommendations which was subsequently revised to a list of 15 recommendations after further review by the working party. These included airway assessment and management; management of hormonal therapy; relevant issues in obstetric anaesthesia; and hospital infrastructure and processes.

Conclusions

This document provides the first guidance produced to advise on best practice to ensure the safety and dignity of trans and gender‐diverse individuals in the peri‐operative period.
High‐intensity interval training with functional electrical stimulation cycling for incomplete spinal cord injury patients: A pilot feasibility study
Authors: Manaf Haidzir , Hamzaid Nur Azah , Hasnan Nazirah , Yiwei Chen , Mohafez Hamidreza , Hisham Hafifi , Davis Glen
Published: July 2024

Background

Consequences of spinal cord injury (SCI) with a sedentary lifestyle will progress to muscle weakness and muscle atrophy, leading to muscle fatigue. This study aimed to determine the feasibility and preliminary effects of high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) using functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling on changes in thigh muscle volume and muscle strength, in patients with incomplete SCI.

Methods

Eight incomplete SCI patients (mean age 50 years; 6 women) with stable SCI paraplegia (mean 6.75 years since injury) participated in the HIIT FES cycling (85%–90% peak Watts; 4 × 4–min intervals) three times a week (over 6 weeks). The main outcomes were adherence, participant acceptability, and adverse events. Secondary outcomes were muscle strength (peak torque) and leg volume changes.

Results

Our findings revealed that the program was well‐received by participants, with high levels of adherence, positive feedback, and satisfaction, suggesting that it could be a promising option for individuals seeking to enhance their lower body strength and muscle mass. Additionally, all participants successfully completed the training without any serious adverse events, indicating that the program is safe for use. Finally, we found that the 6‐week HIIT FES leg cycling exercise program resulted in notable improvements in isometric peak torque of the quadriceps (range 13.9%–25.6%), hamstring muscle (18.2%–23.3%), and leg volume (1.7%–18.2%).

Conclusions

This study highlights HIIT FES leg cycling exercise program potential as an effective intervention for improving lower limb muscle function.
Evaluation of cell survival in different 3D‐printed geometric shapes of human iPSC‐derived engineered heart tissue
Authors: Yildirim Yalin , Degener Louisa , Reuter Lukas , Petersen Johannes , Gabel Lilian , Sommer Annika , Pahrmann Christiane , Reichenspurner Hermann , Pecha Simon
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Engineered Heart Tissue (EHT) is a promising tool to repair heart muscle defects and can additionally be used for drug testing. Due to the absence of an in vitro vascularization, EHT geometry crucially impacts nutrient and oxygen supply by diffusion capacity. We analyzed cardiomyocyte survival in different EHT geometries.

Methods

Different geometries with varying surface‐area‐to‐volume‐ratios were calculated (structure A (Ring) AS/V = 58.47 mm2/440 μL3, structure B (Infinity) 25.86 mm2/440 μL3). EHTs were generated from hiPSC‐derived cardiomyocytes (4 × 106) and a fibrin/thrombin hydrogel. Cell viability was evaluated by RT‐PCR, cytometric studies, and Bioluminescence imaging.

Results

Using 3D‐printed casting molds, spontaneously beating EHTs can be generated in various geometric forms. At day 7, the RT‐PCR analyses showed a significantly higher Troponin‐T value in ring EHTs, compared to infinity EHTs. In cytometric studies, we evaluated 15% more Troponin‐T positive cells in ring (73% ± 12%), compared to infinity EHTs (58% ± 11%, p = 0.04). BLI visualized significantly higher cell survival in ring EHTs (ROI = A: 1.14 × 106 p/s and B: 8.47 × 105 p/s, p < 0.001) compared to infinity EHTs during longitudinal cultivation process.

Conclusion

Use of 3D‐printing allows the creation of EHTs in all desired geometric shapes. The geometry with an optimized surface‐area‐to‐volume‐ratio (ring EHT) demonstrated a significantly higher cell survival measured by RT‐PCR, Bioluminescence imaging, and cytometric studies using FACS analysis.
A case of Herlyn–Werner–Wunderlich syndrome with exacerbation of hematometra after adnexectomy
Authors: Hayashi Shigehiro , Ono Masanori , Sagisaka Masahiro , Mimura Takayuki , Kojima Junya , Ono Masataka , Sasaki Toru , Yamamoto Akiko , Nishi Hirotaka
Published: July 2024

A 27‐year‐old nulliparous woman presented with a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen and abdominal pain. A left ovarian tumor, uterus didelphys, left renal agenesis, and left vaginal atresia were observed on imaging. The ovarian tumor was presumed to have caused the abdominal pain, and an abdominal left adnexectomy was performed. After 3 months, she reported severe lower abdominal pain during menstruation. Transvaginal ultrasonography revealed uterine enlargement. After 17 days, the patient presented with abdominal pain and fever. She was diagnosed with peritonitis due to infection and left uterine hematometra. Because she did not improve with antibiotic treatment, left laparoscopic hysterectomy was performed. Subsequently, she did not experience the lower abdominal pain. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment based on the morphology of the reproductive tract and symptoms must be considered in patients with Herlyn–Werner–Wunderlich syndrome. Treatment must permit the outflow of menstrual blood.
Design of a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model for administration of low dose peripheral norepinephrine during general anaesthesia
Authors: Joachim Jona , Cartailler Jérôme , Vallee Fabrice , Lefevre Thomas , Callebert Jacques , Gayat Etienne , Lavielle Marc
Published: July 2024

Aims

Intraoperative hypotension is a risk factor for kidney, heart and cognitive postoperative complications. Literature suggests that the use of low‐dose peripheral norepinephrine (NOR) reduces organ dysfunction, yet its administration remains unstandardized. In this work we develop a pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) model of NOR and its effect on mean arterial pressure (MAP).

Methods

From June 2018 to December 2021, we included patients scheduled for elective neurosurgery and requiring vasopressors for intraoperative hypotension management at Lariboisière Hospital, Paris. Low doses of NOR were administered peripherally, and successive arterial blood samples were collected to track its plasmatic concentration. We used a compartmental modelling approach for NOR PK. We developed and compared 2 models for NOR PD on MAP. Model comparison was done using Bayes information criteria. The resulting PK/PD model parameters were fitted over the entire population and linked to age, weight, height and sex.

Results

We included 29 patients (age 52 [46–64] years, 69% female). NOR median time to peak effect on MAP was 74 [53–94] s. After bolus administration, MAP increased by 24% (15–31%). A 2‐comparment model with depot best captured NOR PK. NOR PD effect on MAP was well represented by both Emax and Windkessel models, with better results for the former. We found that age, height and weight as well as history of smoking and hypertension were correlated with model parameters.

Conclusion

We have developed a PK/PD model to accurately track norepinephrine plasma concentration and its effect on MAP over time, which could serve for target‐controlled infusion.
Clinical characteristics and prognosis of liver injury induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with malignancies: A real‐world retrospective study
Authors: Jiang Ying , Lv Minzhi , Jin Zhiping , Wu Yi , Li Xiaoyu , Zhang Ningping
Published: July 2024

Aims

Programmed cell death receptor (ligand)‐1 inhibitors (PD‐(L)1), as the preferred immunotherapy, have been widely used in the Chinese mainland and drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) has been reported. The study aimed to investigate the clinical features or risk factors for immunotherapy‐related DILI.

Methods

Patients who received PD‐(L)1 inhibitors from January 2020 to July 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The likelihood of DILI was adjudicated by the Roussel‐Uclaf causality assessment.

Results

A total of 1175 patients were included in the study and 89 patients (7.6%) developed DILI, of which 12 (13.5%) progressed to acute liver failure (ALF) and three (3.4%) died. Among the DILI population, 56 (62.9%) had a cholestatic pattern and exhibited a prolonged treatment course and duration for resolution compared to the hepatocellular and mixed patterns. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and abnormal baseline of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) had increased risks of DILI by 2.1‐fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.231–3.621), 1.9‐fold [95% CI, 1.123–3.325] and 2.1‐fold [95% CI, 1.317–3.508], respectively. The model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score had a c‐statistic of 0.894 (95% CI, 0.778–1.000) with a sensitivity of 67% and a specificity of 95% for poor outcomes. COX analysis showed that the MELD ≥ 18 was predictive of immunotherapy‐related ALF or death.

Conclusions

PD‐(L)1 inhibitor‐related liver injury manifests primarily as a cholestatic pattern, on which corticosteroid treatment has minimal effect compared to hepatocellular and mixed patterns. MELD score ≥ 18 at the time of liver injury performed best in the prediction of ALF or death in immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)‐related DILI.
Post‐collaborative benefits: A meta‐analysis of the effect of collaboration on subsequent individual retrieval
Authors: Gao Yuan‐Xia , Chu Yue , Liu Xi‐Ping , Tang Wei‐Hai
Published: July 2024

Collaboration has an essential role in memory, and how to appropriately use it to affect individual memory positively is a matter of concern. The meta‐analysis generally assessed the effect of collaboration on subsequent individual retrieval, registered on the PROSPERO platform and adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, using the Web of Science, Science Direct, CNKI and WanFang databases with post‐collaborative memory as the main subject, screened studies published up to December 31, 2023, a total of 64 studies with 101 effect sizes, including 13,398 participants from 11 countries. Heterogeneity test, sensitivity analysis, subgroup analysis and meta‐regression analysis were performed on the included studies, while publication bias was assessed. The results found that collaboration improves subsequent individual retrieval memory more than individuals, and collaboration has a moderate facilitating effect on subsequent individual retrieval. Group size, material category, category size, collaboration phase, collaboration approach, task process and test method were among the moderating variables. The study emphasizes the role of collaboration in cognition and demonstrates the post‐collaborative benefits. The conclusions are of value for developing methods to improve individual memory.
Caries trajectories from childhood to adolescence: Analysis of data from a nationwide school dental service
Authors: Tan Sharon Hui Xuan , Teo Yik‐Ying , Tan Melissa Hui Xian , Heng Wong Yim , Chen Wenjia , Gao Xiaoli
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess patterns of longitudinal changes in caries status among school‐going children in Singapore.

Methods

Dental records for a single cohort of students who received dental examinations in six standard examination years between 2009 and 2017 were analysed (n = 24 699). Group‐based trajectory modelling with a zero‐inflated Poisson distribution was carried out to determine dental caries trajectories in the permanent dentition. Associations between sociodemographic factors and trajectory group membership were assessed using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

The predicted population distribution across the four caries trajectory groups identified was 65.0% (‘none’), 16.8% (‘low’), 14.8% (‘medium’) and 3.4% (‘high’). The ‘none’ trajectory group had a decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) score of 0 throughout the 8 years. Higher baseline DMFT counts and nonlinear increases in DMFT scores were noted for the ‘low’, ‘medium’ and ‘high’ trajectory groups. The correlation coefficient between DMFT counts in years 6 and 8 was 0.91, as compared to 0.77 between baseline and year 1. Factors associated with the ‘high’ caries trajectory include lower socio‐economic status, female gender, Chinese race (compared to the Indian race), enrolment in primary schools in the Eastern and Western regions of Singapore, and enrolment in public secondary schools.

Conclusions

Under a nationwide school dental service, four trajectory patterns of caries counts in the permanent dentition were identified over 8 years. Among students in the ‘low’, ‘medium’ and ‘high’ trajectory groups, greater caries increment was noted during the transition from primary to secondary school. The correlation between DMFT counts in successive examinations was stronger in older than younger ages.
Contact allergy to neomycin in consecutively patch tested Danish eczema patients from 2000 to 2023: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kursawe Larsen Christoffer , Jensen Mikkel Bak , Schwensen Jakob F. B.
Published: July 2024

Background

Neomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that may cause contact allergy. It was withdrawn as a medicine for human use in Denmark in October 2009 but is still found in some vaccines.

Objectives

To identify time trends in contact allergy to neomycin in the period from 2000 to 2023.

Methods

A cross‐section study of patients ≥18 years consecutively patch‐tested with neomycin sulfate (20% in pet.) at Gentofte Hospital, Denmark, during the period 2000–2023 was conducted.

Results

The overall prevalence of contact allergy to neomycin was 1.4%. The prevalence was significantly lower in the period ‘2010–2023’ (1.2%) than in ‘2000–2009’ (1.8%) (p < 0.005). Contact allergy to neomycin was significantly positively associated with facial dermatitis and age >40 years, and significantly negatively associated with occupational dermatitis and hand dermatitis. No changes in sex, occupational dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, hand dermatitis, leg dermatitis, facial dermatitis, or age > 40/≤40 (the MOAHLFA‐index) were identified when comparing neomycin contact allergic‐patients in the two periods ‘2010–2023’ and ‘2001–2009’.

Conclusion

Neomycin is a rare cause of contact allergy in Denmark with a significantly lower prevalence following its withdrawal as a medicinal product for human use in Denmark in 2009.
Factors influencing diabetes treatment satisfaction in the INtegrating DEPrEssioN and Diabetes treatmENT randomized clinical trial: A multilevel model analysis
Authors: Cooper Zach , Johnson Leslie , Ali Mohammed K. , Patel Shivani A. , Poongothai Subramani , Mohan Viswanathan , Anjana R. M. , Tandon N. , Khadgawat R. , Sridhar G. R. , Aravind S. R. , Sosale B. , Sagar R. , Shankar Radha , Sundari Bhavani , Kosari Madhu , Venkat Narayan K. M. , Rao Deepa , Chwastiak Lydia
Published: July 2024

Aims

Patient satisfaction is associated with positive diabetes outcomes. However, there are no identified studies that evaluate both patient‐ and clinic‐level predictors influencing diabetes care satisfaction longitudinally.

Methods

Data from the INtegrating DEPrEssioN and Diabetes treatmENT trial was used to perform the analysis. We used fixed and random effects models to assess whether and how changes in patient‐level predictors (treatment assignment, depression symptom severity, systolic blood pressure, body mass index, LDL cholesterol, and haemoglobin A1C) from 0 to 24 months and clinic‐level predictors (visit frequency, visit cost, number of specialists, wait time, time spent with healthcare provider, and receiving verbal reminders) measured at 24 months influence diabetes care satisfaction from 0 to 24 months.

Results

Model 1 (patient‐level predictors) accounted for 7% of the change in diabetes satisfaction and there was a significant negative relationship between change in depressive symptoms and care satisfaction (β = −0.23, SE = 0.12, p < 0.05). Within Model 1, 2% of the variance was explained by clinic‐level predictors. Model 2 included both patient‐ and clinic‐level predictors and accounted for 18% of the change in diabetes care satisfaction. Within Model 2, 9% of the variance was attributed to clinic‐level predictors. There was also a cross‐level interaction where the change in depression had less of an impact on the change in satisfaction for those who received a verbal reminder (β = −0.11, SE = 0.21, p = 0.34) compared with those who did not receive a reminder (β = −0.62, SE = 0.08, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Increased burden of depressive symptoms influences diabetes care satisfaction. Clinic‐level predictors also significantly influence diabetes care satisfaction and can reduce dissatisfaction in primary care, specifically, reminder calls from clinic staff.
Domain‐general cognitive control processes in bilingual switching: Evidence from midfrontal theta oscillations
Authors: Cui Ningjing , Piai Vitoria , Zheng Xiaochen Y.
Published: July 2024

Language control in bilingual speakers is thought to be implicated in effectively switching between languages, inhibiting the non‐intended language, and continuously monitoring what to say and what has been said. It has been a matter of controversy concerning whether language control operates in a comparable manner to cognitive control processes in non‐linguistic domains (domain‐general) or if it is exclusive to language processing (domain‐specific). As midfrontal theta oscillations have been considered as an index of cognitive control, examining whether a midfrontal theta effect is evident in tasks requiring bilingual control could bring new insights to the ongoing debate. To this end, we reanalysed the EEG data from two previous bilingual production studies where Dutch–English bilinguals named pictures based on colour cues. Specifically, we focused on three fundamental control processes in bilingual production: switching between languages, inhibition of the nontarget language, and monitoring of speech errors. Theta power increase was observed in switch trials compared to repeat trials, with a midfrontal scalp distribution. However, no theta power difference was observed in switch trials following a shorter sequence of same‐language trials compared to a longer sequence, suggesting a missing modulation of inhibitory control. Similarly, increased midfrontal theta power was observed when participants failed to switch to the intended language compared to correct responses. Altogether, these findings tentatively support the involvement of domain‐general cognitive control mechanisms in bilingual switching.
Optimizing fraud detection in financial transactions with machine learning and imbalance mitigation
Authors: Al‐dahasi Ezaz Mohammed , Alsheikh Rama Khaled , Khan Fakhri Alam , Jeon Gwanggil
Published: July 2024

The rapid advancement of the Internet and digital payments has transformed the landscape of financial transactions, leading to both technological progress and an alarming rise in cybercrime. This study addresses the critical issue of financial fraud detection in the era of digital payments, focusing on enhancing operational risk frameworks to mitigate the increasing threats. The objective is to improve the predictive performance of fraud detection systems using machine learning techniques. The methodology involves a comprehensive data preprocessing and model creation process, including one‐hot encoding, feature selection, sampling, standardization, and tokenization. Six machine learning models are employed for fraud detection, and their hyperparameters are optimized. Evaluation metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1‐score are used to assess model performance. Results reveal that XGBoost and Random Forest outperform other models, achieving a balance between false positives and false negatives. The study meets the requirements for fraud detection systems, ensuring accuracy, scalability, adaptability, and explainability. This paper provides valuable insights into the efficacy of machine learning models for financial fraud detection and emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between false positives and false negatives.
Analytical assessment of low‐ and high‐cycle fatigue behavior of welded components considering the linear hardening model
Authors: Liu Shaoqing , Lei Linshen , Gu Tang , Lan Tian , Wang Chengqi , Su Yangxuan , Wang Lingjun , Liu Xiaochao
Published: July 2024

Welded components are highly vulnerable to fatigue failures due to stress concentrations and material imperfections. This study develops an analytical framework that predicts both high‐cycle (HCF) and low‐cycle (LCF) fatigue lives of welded joints using a structural strain parameter. By employing a linear hardening model, the method effectively translates structural stress into structural strain, providing a reliable metric for assessing fatigue life, especially in LCF conditions. Validated against experimental data from 62 longitudinal gusset joints, the approach proves both reliable and practical. This simplified method facilitates easier fatigue assessments, encouraging its wider use and potential standardization in engineering, thus improving the predictability of welded structures' performance.
Lateral connectivity maintains higher freshwater mussel biodiversity
Authors: Liu Xiongjun , Sousa Ronaldo , Guo Shuhan , Wu Ruiwen , Ouyang Shan , Wu Xiaoping
Published: July 2024

The loss of lateral hydrological connectivity (LLHC) in freshwater ecosystems is increasingly threatening biodiversity; however, studies reporting this situation are limited, especially those assessing multi‐measure biodiversity features at large spatial scales.

Here, and using one the most threatened taxonomic groups in freshwater ecosystems, we examined the possible influence of LLHC on the species diversity, density, and biomass of mussel assemblages and the genetic diversity and structure of Nodularia douglasiae (a common and widespread native species) in the Yangtze River floodplain.

Results showed that the species diversity of freshwater mussels (α and β diversity) significantly differed between the connected and the disconnected areas, with higher α diversity and lower β diversity in the connected areas. At the same time, relative abundance, density, biomass, and genetic diversity of freshwater mussels were higher in the connected areas. High genetic differentiation and low gene flow were found among the 18 analysed N. douglasiae populations, indicating that LLHC is affecting genetic structure of this particular freshwater mussel species.

Overall, results indicated that river–lake connectivity is affecting freshwater mussel biodiversity. In addition, this study highlights that multi‐measure biodiversity features provide distinct information about biodiversity dynamics, and are essential to evaluate the effects of floodplain disconnection. We advocate that an integrative approach to floodplain management embracing species and genetic diversity is needed for effective biodiversity conservation in large river ecosystems.
Moss species and precipitation mediate experimental warming stimulation of growing season N2 fixation in subarctic tundra
Authors: Lett Signe , Christiansen Casper T. , Dorrepaal Ellen , Michelsen Anders
Published: July 2024

Climate change in high latitude regions leads to both higher temperatures and more precipitation but their combined effects on terrestrial ecosystem processes are poorly understood. In nitrogen (N) limited and often moss‐dominated tundra and boreal ecosystems, moss‐associated N2 fixation is an important process that provides new N. We tested whether high mean annual precipitation enhanced experimental warming effects on growing season N2 fixation in three common arctic‐boreal moss species adapted to different moisture conditions and evaluated their N contribution to the landscape level. We measured in situ N2 fixation rates in Hylocomium splendens, Pleurozium schreberi and Sphagnum spp. from June to September in subarctic tundra in Sweden. We exposed mosses occurring along a natural precipitation gradient (mean annual precipitation: 571–1155 mm) to 8 years of experimental summer warming using open‐top chambers before our measurements. We modelled species‐specific seasonal N input to the ecosystem at the colony and landscape level. Higher mean annual precipitation clearly increased N2 fixation, especially during peak growing season and in feather mosses. For Sphagnum‐associated N2 fixation, high mean annual precipitation reversed a small negative warming response. By contrast, in the dry‐adapted feather moss species higher mean annual precipitation led to negative warming effects. Modelled total growing season N inputs for Sphagnum spp. colonies were two to three times that of feather mosses at an area basis. However, at the landscape level where feather mosses were more abundant, they contributed 50% more N than Sphagnum. The discrepancy between modelled estimates of species‐specific N input via N2 fixation at the moss core versus ecosystem scale, exemplify how moss cover is essential for evaluating impact of altered N2 fixation. Importantly, combined effects of warming and higher mean annual precipitation may not lead to similar responses across moss species, which could affect moss fitness and their abilities to buffer environmental changes.