bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Poly(Lactic Acid)-based active packages loaded with polyphenolic compounds
Authors: Milenkova Sofia , Marudova Maria , Viraneva Asya 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Extension of shelf life of food products is a long time desired and tested outcome of different innovative packaging techniques and materials. When it comes to novel materials, biopolymer-based ones stand out. Most of them possess proper mechanical and permeability properties, however not all of them are able to inhibit microorganism growing and food spoilage. But when a biopolymer-based film is combined with active compounds, such as polyphenolic ones, an antioxidant effect along with antimicrobial one is observed. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the potential of poly(lactic acid) film incorporated with different polyphenols. The obtained polymer-polyphenol structures are characterized mechanically regarding their Young modulus, strain at break and stress at break. Their wettability and water vapour transmission rates are also examined. As they are intended to be applied as packaging materials, their water uptake is evaluated. Since the structures will be embedded with polyphenolic compounds, their morphology and antioxidant activity are obtained.
OTA upgrade design for new generation of domestic safe and controllable protection measurement and control devices
Authors: Bai Jialin , Zhao Wuzhi , Zhou Xian , Han Shengguo , Jiang Yi 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
In order to meet the increasing demand for high reliability and high security of power systems, this paper proposes an OTA online upgrade design program for a new generation of home-made safety and controllable protection measurement and control devices. The program includes the upgrade package’s composition, the upgrade file’s credible verification, and the online upgrade process. The design realizes remote upgrade of device software through a wireless network, which not only improves the upgrade efficiency but also ensures the safety and reliability of the upgrade process through a series of security measures. This paper describes in detail the composition of the upgrade package, the credible verification method of the upgrade file, and the online upgrade process, which provides effective technical support for the remote operation and maintenance of protection measurement and control devices.
Simulation study of charge distribution characteristics on the surface of silicon nitride ceramics
Authors: Zhang Jinyin , Xu Xiaoyu , Wei Xiaoxing , Huang Chen , Yu Zexuan , Qi Bo 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Pure SF6 gas-insulated high-voltage DC through-wall casings use internal epoxy resin pillar insulators. During operation, temperature gradients and the long-term effects of the DC electric field lead to the accumulation of surface charge on the gas-solid insulation surface. This accumulation can easily trigger flashovers along the insulator’s gas-solid interface. The charge distribution characteristics of silicon nitride material in the DC electric field are less influenced by temperature gradients, making it a viable substitute for epoxy resin materials used in SF6 gas insulation support. In this paper, for the spatiotemporal variation of surface charge of epoxy resin and silicon nitride ceramic materials under a DC electric field, the material parameters are set based on the measured resistivity-temperature variation curves of epoxy and silicon nitride. The SF6 gas flow is considered to obtain a more accurate temperature distribution through the coupling of the heat flow field. The Schottky injection equation is introduced to take into account the influence of the surface charge accumulation process over a long period and to establish a more precise temperature distribution under the coupling of the DC electric field, the heat flow field, and the gas laminar flow field. The surface charge simulation model of epoxy and silicon nitride ceramics considering Schottky injection and bipolar carrier migration and transport model in SF6 under the multi-field coupling of the gas laminar flow field is established to analyze the dominant mechanism of the surface charge accumulation of epoxy and silicon nitride ceramics under the effect of the measured temperature gradient and to analyze the long-term change rule of the surface charge in the space and time.
Accelerating New Hire Networks
Authors: Zehner Deb , Pryor Greg 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations experienced the great resignation and a continuation of high amounts of remote work. As a result, organizations faced the challenge of onboarding new hires effectively in this new, largely virtual context, including ensuring they could nurture crucial relationships. In this case, this chapter shares how one large global consulting company responded quickly by applying research-based relationship-building practices to accelerate new hire success. The organization created a 6-month pilot program in which new hires learned and applied these practices, and their network connectivity and satisfaction improved compared to that of a control group, ultimately leading to increased retention. This case provides a detailed blueprint for how organizations can help new hires develop critical relationship-building practices, leverage manager support, and use organizational network analysis to monitor the impact of their efforts.
Sex-dependent increases in oxytocin levels in response to intravenous kisspeptin in humans
Authors: Galbiati F , Plessow F , Plummer L , Campbell M B , Nazarloo S , Carter C S , Carroll R S , Kim H K , Pereira S A , Paulis D , Davis J M , Miller K K , Kaiser U B , Seminara S B , Aulinas A , Lawson E A 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
A clinically significant oxytocin-deficient state (OXT-D) has been established in adults with arginine vasopressin deficiency and there is a need to develop diagnostic testing. Kisspeptin (KP) is a candidate for such a test as KP receptors are found on oxytocinergic neurons, and KP administration increases plasma OXT in animals. We hypothesized that intravenous KP administration would increase peripheral OXT levels post-injection in healthy adults.

Methods
KP-112-121 (KP analog, 0.24 nmol/kg bolus) was administered to 12 healthy adults (50% female). Serum OXT was measured before and 10, 20, 40, 60 minutes after KP administration.

Results
Males and females did not differ significantly in age, BMI, or baseline OXT levels. Ten minutes after KP, OXT increased by 18.8% from baseline (FDR-p=0.004) with a greater increase in males than females (31.9% vs. 5.7%, respectively, FDR-p=0.004).

Conclusions
Our data support KP as a candidate for a provocative test to identify OXT-D in males.
Discordance between adrenal vein sampling and imaging: the role of unilateral cortisol excess
Authors: Grundy Megan , Leung Alexander A , Hyrcza Martin , Pasieka Janice L , Chan Denise , Przybojewski Stefan J , So Chi-bun Benny , Orton Dennis , Harvey Adrian , Kline Gregory A 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Objective
Adrenal vein sampling (AVS) is considered the gold-standard for identifying unilateral primary aldosteronism (PA), but is sensitive to any asymmetry in cortisol production. Sub-clinical autonomous cortisol production likely contributes to discordance between cross-sectional imaging and AVS.

Design and Methods
Retrospective chart review was performed of patients in Calgary, Alberta who 1) had a diagnosis of PA with clear adrenal mass, 2) had discordant AVS and cross-sectional imaging, and 3) underwent dexamethasone-suppressed NP59-iodocholesterol adrenal scintigraphy (n=25). Post-operative biochemical and clinical outcomes were evaluated. Surgical pathology was analysed with immunohistochemical staining for CYP11B1 and CYP11B2.

Results
NP59 scanning demonstrated autonomous steroidogenesis from the same side as the CT-identified lesion, despite discordant AVS results, in 19/25 cases. Out of the 16 patients who underwent adrenalectomy (guided by NP59), 11 cases had a final diagnosis of cortisol-producing adenoma with bilateral PA, while the final diagnosis in the remaining 5 cases was cortisol-producing adenoma with unilateral PA (defined by a complete biochemical response). All cases pre-operatively had low/suppressed ACTH that rose post-adrenalectomy, in keeping with resolution of cortisol autonomy. AVS incorrectly diagnosed the subtype of PA or falsely localized the side of aldosterone excess in 10/16 cases.

Conclusions
Discordant CT and AVS results in patients with PA and obvious adrenal mass are often explained by sub-clinical asymmetric cortisol excess. Clinicians should be aware of the limitations of AVS in the presence of subtle autonomous cortisol secretion and must be able to counsel patients regarding the possible outcomes from surgery when discordant lateralization is present.
Comparative analysis of anaesthesia modalities in pulmonary vein isolation: insights from a prospective multicentre registry
Authors: Massalha Eias , Dakka Amer , Sabbag Avi , Berkovitch Anat , Marai Ibrahim , Michowitz Yoav , Glikson Michael , Konstantino Yuval , Haim Moti , Luria David , Omelchenko Alexander , Laish-Farkash Avishag , Suleiman Mahmoud , Leshem Eran , Nof Eyal , Beinart Roy 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Aims
Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained arrhythmia in adults, is increasing in prevalence globally. Catheter ablation (CA), particularly pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), is a key treatment option. Pulmonary vein isolation can be performed using different energy sources, including cryoballoon ablation (CBA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), or pulse field ablation. Anaesthesia modalities for these procedures include general anaesthesia (GA), deep sedation (DS), and conscious sedation (CS). However, the optimal anaesthesia modality remains unclear, as previous studies have shown mixed outcomes. This study aims to compare the safety and efficacy of different anaesthesia modalities in PVI.

Methods and results
This prospective, multicentre study, based on the Israeli Catheter Ablation Registry, evaluated the impact of different anaesthesia modalities on procedural outcomes and safety in AF ablation. Data from 1002 patients who underwent PVI between January 2019 and December 2021 across 14 centres were analysed. Patients were stratified by anaesthesia modality—CS vs. GA, with the latter encompassing DS. Key outcomes, including AF recurrence, procedural complications, and success rates, were evaluated over a 24-month follow-up period. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was performed for the subgroup of patients who underwent CBA. Of the 1002 patients, 53% received GA, 6.3% DS, and 40% CS, with CBA used in 84% of cases. Complete PVI was achieved in 91% of patients, with comparable success rates observed between CS and GA groups. No significant differences were found between CS and GA modalities in terms of AF recurrence rates at 12 months (15% vs. 16%) and 24 months (19.5% vs. 21.2%), or in 12-month rehospitalization rates (19.8% vs. 16.5%). Sensitivity analysis of the CBA subgroup yielded similar results, with no significant differences in AF recurrence, complications, or procedural duration between CS and GA modalities.

Conclusion
Conscious sedation is as safe and effective as general anaesthesia in AF ablation, particularly with cryoablation. The choice of anaesthesia appears to be driven by patient characteristics and institutional factors without affecting long-term outcomes such as AF recurrence or complication rates.
External validation of a machine learning based classification algorithm for ambulatory heart rhythm diagnostics in pericardioversion atrial fibrillation patients using smartphone photoplethysmography: the SMARTBEATS-ALGO study
Authors: Fernstad Jonatan , Svennberg Emma , Åberg Peter , Kemp Gudmundsdottir Katrin , Jansson Anders , Engdahl Johan 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Aims
The aim of this study was to perform an external validation of an automatic machine learning algorithm for heart rhythm diagnostics using smartphone photoplethysmography (PPG) recorded by patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial flutter (AFL) pericardioversion in an unsupervised ambulatory setting.

Methods and results
Patients undergoing cardioversion for AF or AFL performed 1-min heart rhythm recordings peri-cardioversion at least twice daily for 4–6 weeks, using an iPhone 7 smartphone running a PPG application (CORAI Heart Monitor) simultaneously with a single-lead ECG recording (KardiaMobile). The algorithm uses support vector machines (SVM) to classify heart rhythm from smartphone-PPG. The algorithm was trained on PPG recordings made by patients in a separate cardioversion cohort. Photoplethysmography recordings in the external validation cohort were analysed by the algorithm. Diagnostic performance was calculated by comparing the heart rhythm classification output to the diagnosis from the simultaneous ECG recordings (gold standard).
In total 460 patients performed 34 097 simultaneous PPG and ECG recordings, divided into 180 patients with 16 092 recordings in the training cohort and 280 patients with 18 005 recordings in the external validation cohort. Algorithm classification of the PPG recordings in the external validation cohort diagnosed AF with sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 99.7/99.7/99.7%, and AF/AFL with sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 99.3/99.1/99.2%.

Conclusion
A machine learning based algorithm demonstrated excellent performance in diagnosing atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter from smartphone-PPG recordings in an unsupervised ambulatory setting, minimizing the need for manual review and ECG verification, in elderly cardioversion populations.
Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Ablation: Glimpsing the Light Ahead?
Authors: Hu Xiaofeng , Di Biase Luigi , Hou Xumin , Liu Xu 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Current ablation strategies for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) remain suboptimal, with success rates around 50%. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) serves as the cornerstone of ablation, yet adjunctive strategies have shown inconsistent results in randomized controlled trials. This review critically examines the outcomes and limitations of these approaches while identifying key barriers to success, including incomplete understanding of AF mechanisms, patient heterogeneity, technical challenges in achieving durable lesions, and the absence of standardized procedural endpoints. A novel electro-anatomically guided ablation protocol is proposed, integrating advanced mapping techniques and procedural endpoints aimed at achieving AF termination. Furthermore, it discusses emerging technologies such as pulsed field ablation (PFA), which hold promise for enhancing safety and long-term outcomes. These insights provide a framework for future research and the optimization of persistent AF ablation strategies.
Comparing step counting algorithms for high-resolution wrist accelerometry data in older adults in the ARIC study
Authors: Gao Sunan , Zhou Xinkai , Koffman Lily , Wanigatunga Amal A , Schrack Jennifer A , Crainiceanu Ciprian M , Muschelli John 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Step counting from wrist accelerometry data is widely used in physical activity research and practice. While several open-source algorithms can estimate steps from high-resolution accelerometry data, there is a critical need to compare these algorithms and provide practical recommendations for their use in older adults.

Methods
1,282 Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study participants (mean age 83.4, 60% female) wore ActiGraph GT9X wrist devices for 7 days, collecting 80Hz tri-axial accelerometry data. Five open-source step-counting algorithms (ADEPT, Oak, SDT, Verisense, and Stepcount) were applied to this data. Step count distributions and their cross-sectional associations with health outcomes were compared.

Results
The estimated mean daily step counts varied widely across algorithms, ranging from 988 for ADEPT to 23,607 for SDT. Pearson correlations across methods ranged from moderate (r=0.52) to very strong (r=0.96). All step counts were highly associated with age, with an estimated decline of 119.0 to 142.8 steps/year (all p&lt;0.001) with comparable trends observed across demographic subgroups. After z-score standardization (subtracting the population mean and dividing by the population standard deviation), the estimated steps from each algorithm exhibited similar directionality and magnitude of association with various metabolic, cardiovascular, physical performance, and cognitive outcomes (all p&lt;0.001).

Conclusion
The estimated step counts algorithms are highly correlated, and, after z-scoring, have similar and highly significant associations with health outcomes. Because the total number of steps varies widely across algorithms, interpretation and translation of results for health monitoring and clinical use in older adults depends on the choice of step counting algorithm.
Safety and Tolerability of a Short Course of Linezolid for the Treatment of Predominantly Moderate to Severe Tuberculous Meningitis in Adults with HIV
Authors: Chow Felicia C , Kafeero Paddy , Muhumuza Patrick , Nakimbugwe Maria , Ssemaganda Anthony , Tayebwa Colman , Farrell Elana , Wilson Margaret , Nahid Payam , Savic Rada , Cresswell Fiona , Kibengo Freddie M 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM)-related deaths occur early, often within weeks after initiation of treatment. Enhanced treatment early in the disease course with agents that effectively penetrate the central nervous system may improve outcomes in TBM.

Methods
We conducted a phase 2, open-label, randomized trial in Masaka, Uganda to assess the safety and tolerability of linezolid 1200 mg versus no linezolid with high (35 mg/kg/day) or standard-dose (10 mg/kg/day) rifampin for 4 weeks in participants with definite or suspected TBM. The primary endpoint was any &gt;grade 3 adverse event during the interventional period. Secondary endpoints included overall survival and functional independence adjusted for TBM disease grade.

Results
We randomized 40 participants (98% with HIV). One-fourth had microbiologically-confirmed TBM. Nearly 75% had moderate to severe disease (Medical Research Council grades II and III). No significant difference in &gt;grade 3 adverse event-free survival was observed across the 4 treatment arms (p=0.18), or by linezolid (p=0.97) or rifampin (p=0.46) group. More favorable overall survival (OR 0.28 for death at 12 weeks, p=0.10; OR 0.43 at 24 weeks, p=0.24) and functional outcome [OR 2.22 for lower modified Rankin Scale score (i.e., less disability) at 12 weeks, p=0.18; OR 2.00 at 24 weeks, p=0.24) were observed in the linezolid group.

Conclusions
The addition of a short course of linezolid to treat predominantly moderate to severe TBM in adults with HIV did not introduce excess toxicity. Our findings add to growing evidence that linezolid is a safe and acceptable treatment for TBM that merits further investigation in larger multi-site trials.
Efficiency assessment of PFAS immobilisation for large volumes of diffuse contaminated soil at airports
Authors: Askeland Matthew , Mikhael Elissar , Matakala Mubiana 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This study evaluated the feasibility of immobilising diffuse per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) contaminated soil by developing and validating a novel field-scale methodology. The effectiveness of this approach was assessed via a field-scale trial conducted at an airport in Australia. Prior to full-scale treatment, laboratory trials were undertaken to determine optimal treatment reagents and application rates. The Standardised Sorbent Qualities Measure (SSQM) and Matrix Sorbent Qualities Measure (MSQM) were developed and applied to assess sorbent sorption/desorption capacity for PFAS under standardised conditions, facilitating sorbent selection. Three blending techniques were employed for field-scale trials: manual mixing with an excavator, large-scale rapid mixing using a pug mill, and a portable trommel screen. The efficacy of soil blending with a RemBind sorbent was validated using the sum of and leachable perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) + perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) assessments. Results showed a substantial reduction in PFAS leachability, with mean PFOS + PFHxS concentrations generally decreasing to below the limit of reporting, resulting in over 98% reductions in leachable fractions. The Sorbent Application Uniformity Test (SAUT) effectively served as a quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) measure alongside PFAS analysis, demonstrating consistent sorbent-soil blending across all methods evaluated. Overall, the large-scale trial at the airport confirmed that immobilisation using 1% to 2% RemBind 100 sorbent offered a viable, sustainable, and cost-effective solution, particularly for PFOS and PFHxS. Applying novel SSQM/MSQM and SAUT methods combined with pre-and post-treatment leachability analysis established a clear link between the sorbent application specification determined from laboratory-scale trials and field validation requirements. Thus, these methods are pertinent for assessing the immobilisation technique's efficacy and sorbent blending quality.
Multi-Site Retrospective Analysis of Diffusion and Perfusion MRI Correlates to Glioma Characteristics Derived from Radio-Pathomic Maps
Authors: Bobholz Samuel A , Aaronsen Daniel , Winiarz Aleksandra , Duenweg Savannah R , Lowman Allison K , Flatley Michael , Kyereme Fitzgerald , Connelly Jennifer , Mrachek Kelly , Krucoff Max O , Banerjee Anjishnu , LaViolette Peter S 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Introduction
This study determines the relationship between diffusion and perfusion-based MRI signatures and radio-pathomic maps of tumor pathology in a large, multi-site cohort.

Methods
This study included perfusion imaging from pre-surgical relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) images from the UPenn-GBM dataset and pre-surgical arterial spin labeling (ASL) imaging from the UCSF-PDGM dataset. Diffusion imaging included fractional anisotropy (FA) estimates derived from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for each subject from each institution. A previously validated autopsy-based model was applied to the structural images from each patient to generate quantitative radio-pathomic maps of cell density and extracellular fluid (ECF). Mean cell density, ECF density, FA, rCBV calculated from DSC imaging, and rCBF calculated from ASL were computed for each patient and statistically compared within contrast-enhancement (CE) and the non-enhancing peritumor FLAIR hyperintensity (FH).

Results
Both rCBV and ASL showed positive correlation with cell density within CE (rCBV: R=0.280, p&lt;0.001; ASL: R=0.117, p=0.023). However, both perfusion metrics also showed no association with cell density within the FH region at the group level (rCBV: R=0.0162, p=0.731; ASL: R=-0.020, p=0.652). Negative correlations were observed between FA and ECF density across both CE and FH in both the UPenn-GBM (CE: r = -0.204, p&lt;0.001, FH: r=-0.332, p&lt;0.001) and the UCSF-PDGM (CE:r=-0.179, p&lt;0.001, FH:-0.355, p&lt;0.001). Additionally, a positive ASL-cell density association per subject within FH was associated with worse survival prognosis (HR=5.58, p=0.022).

Discussion
These results suggest that radio-pathomic maps of tumor pathology provide complementary information to other MR signatures that reveal prognostically valuable signatures of the non-enhancing tumor margin.