bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Probing Renal Microstructure and Function with Advanced Diffusion MRI: Concepts, Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Stabinska Julia , Wittsack Hans‐Jörg , Lerman Lilach O. , Ljimani Alexandra , Sigmund Eric E. 
Published: November 2023

Diffusion measurements in the kidney are affected not only by renal microstructure but also by physiological processes (i.e., glomerular filtration, water reabsorption, and urine formation). Because of the superposition of passive tissue diffusion, blood perfusion, and tubular pre‐urine flow, the limitations of the monoexponential apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) model in assessing pathophysiological changes in renal tissue are becoming apparent and motivate the development of more advanced diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) variants. These approaches take advantage of the fact that the length scale probed in DWI measurements can be adjusted by experimental parameters, including diffusion‐weighting, diffusion gradient directions and diffusion time. This forms the basis by which advanced DWI models can be used to capture not only passive diffusion effects, but also microcirculation, compartmentalization, tissue anisotropy. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in the field of renal DWI. Following a short introduction on renal structure and physiology, we present the key methodological approaches for the acquisition and analysis of renal DWI data, including intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), non‐Gaussian diffusion, and hybrid IVIM‐DTI. We then briefly summarize the applications of these methods in chronic kidney disease and renal allograft dysfunction. Finally, we discuss the challenges and potential avenues for further development of renal DWI.Level of Evidence5Technical EfficacyStage 2
Assessing space and time changes in daily maximum temperature in the Ebro basin (Spain) using model‐based statistical tools
Authors: Cebrián Ana C. , Asín Jesús , Castillo‐Mateo Jorge , Gelfand Alan E. , Abaurrea Jesús 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThere is continuing interest in the investigation of change in temperature over space and time. For this analysis, we offer statistical tools to illuminate changes temporally, at desired temporal resolution, and spatially, using data generated from suitable space–time models. The proposed tools can be used with the output from any suitable model fitted to any set of spatially referenced time series data. The tools to assess space and time changes include spatial surfaces of probabilities and spatial extents for events defined by exceeding a threshold. The spatial surfaces capture the spatial variation in the probability or risk of an exceedance event, while the spatial extents capture the expected proportion of incidence of an event for a region of interest. This approach is used analyse the changes in daily maximum temperature in an inland Mediterranean region (NE of Spain) in the period 1956–2015. The area is very heterogeneous in orography and climate, including the central Ebro valley and part of the Pyrenees. We use a collection of daily temperature series obtained from simulation under a Bayesian daily temperature model fitted to 18 stations in that area. The results for the summer period show that, although there is an increasing risk in all the events used to quantify the effects of climate change, it is not spatially homogeneous, with the largest increase arising in the centre of the Ebro valley and the Eastern Pyrenees area. The risk of an increase in the average daily maximum temperature from 1966–1975 to 2006–2015 higher than 1°C is higher than 0.5 over all of the region, and close to 1 in the previous areas. The extent of daily maximum temperature higher than the reference mean has increased 3.5% per decade. The mean of the extent indicates that 95% of the area under study has suffered a positive increment of the average temperature, and almost 70% an increment higher than 1°C.
Effect of mesenchymal stromal cells transplantation on the outcomes of patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xie Rong‐hui , Gong Shi‐guo , Song Jiao , Wu Ping‐ping , Hu Wen‐Long 
Published: November 2023

AbstractCell therapy has been explored as a new regenerative treatment for osteoarthritis in the field of regenerative medicine. However, the efficacy of stem cell transplantation from different sources for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) remains controversial. This study integrates and evaluates the previously published data of stem cell transplantation for KOA to explore the curative effect of different stem cells. We conducted a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials on stem cell therapy for KOA. Measures of efficacy included Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Lequesne index, Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale (LKSS), and Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Joint injury was evaluated through the Whole‐Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (WORMS) system. We analyzed 16 studies involving 875 KOA patients. The stem cell treatment showed significant VAS reduction from the third month onwards. Subgroup analysis suggested the most significant pain relief at different postoperative months came from adipose‐derived and umbilical cord‐derived stem cells. Autologous adipose tissue resulted in better pain alleviation compared with allogenic. However, autologous bone marrow stem cells did not show increased pain relief over allogeneic ones. Combination therapy (HA and/or PRP) showed no effect. Autologous adipose‐derived stem cells demonstrate the most effective recovery of knee joint function. In WORMS assessment, there was no significant difference between the stem cell group and control. Stem cell transplantation proved safe and effective for KOA treatment. Different sources stem cells have a good effect on alleviating knee joint pain, restoring knee joint function, and minimizing patient trauma.
What patient parameters influence lumbar stiffness in patients with hip pathology?
Authors: Verhaegen Jeroen C. F. , Alves Batista Nuno , Foster Ryan , Graham Ryan , Phan Philippe , Grammatopoulos George 
Published: November 2023

AbstractLumbar stiffness leads to greater hip dependence to achieve sagittal motion and increases instability after total hip arthroplasty (THA). We aimed to determine parameters that influence lumbar stiffness among patients with hip pathology. We hypothesized that modifiable (degenerative changes, spinal canal stenosis, facet orientation) and nonmodifiable factors (muscle condition) would be associated with lumbar spine stiffness. In this retrospective case‐cohort study from a tertiary referral center, consecutive patients presenting at a hip specialist clinic underwent standing and deep‐seated radiographic assessment to measure lumbar lordosis (∆LL) (stiffness: ∆LL < 20°), hip flexion (∆PFA: pelvic femoral angle), and degree of degenerative‐disc‐disease (DDD) (facet osteoarthritis, disc height, endplate proliferative changes). Of these, 65 patients were selected with previous lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging, allowing to determine lumbar facet orientation, spinal canal stenosis (Schizas classification), and flexor‐ and extensor‐muscle atrophy (Goutallier classification). Mean ∆LL was 45° (range: 11°–72°) and four patients (6%) exhibited spine stiffness. Patients with multilevel DDD (n = 22) had less ∆LL than those with no/single level (n = 43) DDD (34° [range: 11°–53°] vs. 51° [21°–72°]; p < 0.001). Number of DDD levels correlated strongly with ∆LL (ρ = −0.642; p < 0.001). Spinal stiffness was only seen in patients with ≥4 DDD levels. There was no correlation between ∆LL and facet orientation (p > 0.05). ∆LL correlated strongly with extensor atrophy at L3–L4 (ρ = −0.473), L4–L5 (ρ = −0.520), and L5–S1 (ρ = −0.473) and poorly with flexors at L4–L5 (ρ = −0.134) and L5–S1 (ρ = −0.227). Lumbar stiffness is dependent on modifiable (muscle atrophy) and nonmodifiable (extend of DDD) factors. This can guide nonoperative management of hip pathology, emphasizing the relevance of core muscle rehabilitation to improve posture and stiffness. Identification ≥4 DDD levels should alert surgeons of increased THA instability risk. Level of evidence: level IV, cohort series.
Enzymatic treatment to improve permeability and quality of cherry tomatoes for production of dried products
Authors: Sun Ruyu , Chen Shiheng , Chen Xiaoqian , Liu Xiaqing , Zhang Fengshan , Wu Jing , Su Lingqia 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBACKGROUNDCherry tomatoes are nutritious and favored by consumers. Processing them into dried cherry tomatoes can prolong their storage life and improve their flavor. The pretreatment of tomato pericarp is crucial for the subsequent processing. However, the traditional physical and chemical treatments of tomato pericarp generally cause nutrient loss and environmental pollution.RESULTSIn this study, a novel enzymatic method for cherry tomatoes was performed using mixed enzymes containing cutinase, cellulase and pectinase. Results showed that the pericarp permeability of cherry tomatoes was effectively improved due to enzymatic treatment. Changes in the microscopic structure and composition of the cuticle were revealed. After treatment with different concentrations of enzymes, cherry tomatoes exhibited higher pericarp permeability and sensory quality to varying degrees. The lycopene content and total polyphenol content significantly increased 2.4‐ and 1.45‐fold, respectively. In addition, the satisfactory effect of the six‐time reuse of enzymes on cherry tomatoes could still reach the same level as the initial effect, which effectively reduced the cost of production.CONCLUSIONSThis study revealed for the first time that a mixed enzymatic treatment consisting of cutinase, pectinase and cellulase could effectively degrade the cuticle, enhance the pericarp permeability and improve the quality of cherry tomatoes, with the advantages of being mildly controllable and environmentally friendly, providing a new strategy for the processing of dried cherry tomatoes. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparison of outcomes between surgical treatment of colorectal cancer metastatic to the liver and the peritoneum: Review of the literature
Authors: Cos Heidy , Shen Perry 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundLiver and peritoneum are two of the most common sites of colorectal metastases.MethodsWe searched for articles comparing outcomes of surgical management for metastatic colorectal cancer to the liver and peritoneum.ConclusionCytoreductive surgery/heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy has a similar safety profile and survival outcomes as hepatectomy for colorectal metastases after stratifying by resection status and should be incorporated earlier in the management algorithm for colorectal cancer patients with peritoneal metastasesMethodsWe performed a wide search on PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar for articles comparing outcomes of surgical management for metastatic colorectal cancer to the liver and peritoneum. We focused on studies comparing their perioperative clinical outcomes as well as their oncological outcomes. The following words were included in the search: comparison, outcomes, metastasectomy, colorectal cancer, liver, peritoneal surface disease, hepatectomy, and cytoreduction.ResultsOne hundred and twenty studies were evaluated. Six of these studies met the criteria for this review.
Methods in regression analysis in surgical oncology research‐best practice guidelines
Authors: Boe Lillian , Vingan Perri S. , Kim Minji , Zhang Kevin K. , Rochlin Danielle , Matros Evan , Stern Carrie , Nelson Jonas A. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundUsing real working examples, we provide strategies and address challenges in linear and logistic regression to demonstrate best practice guidelines and pitfalls of regression modeling in surgical oncology research.MethodsTo demonstrate our best practices, we reviewed patients who underwent tissue expander breast reconstruction between 2019 and 2021. We assessed predictive factors that affect BREAST‐Q Physical Well‐Being of the Chest (PWB‐C) scores at 2 weeks with linear regression modeling and overall complications and malrotation with logistic regression modeling. Model fit and performance were assessed.ResultsThe 1986 patients were included in the analysis. In linear regression, age [β = 0.18 (95% CI: 0.09, 0.28);p < 0.001], single marital status [β = 2.6 (0.31, 5.0);p = 0.026], and prepectoral pocket dissection [β = 4.6 (2.7, 6.5);p < 0.001] were significantly associated with PWB‐C at 2 weeks. For logistic regression, BMI [OR = 1.06 (95% CI: 1.04, 1.08);p < 0.001], age [OR = 1.02 (1.01, 1.03);p = 0.002], bilateral reconstruction [OR = 1.39 (1.09, 1.79);p = 0.009], and prepectoral dissection [OR = 1.53 (1.21, 1.94);p < 0.001] were associated with increased likelihood of a complication.ConclusionWe provide focused directives for successful application of regression techniques in surgical oncology research. We encourage researchers to select variables with clinical judgment, confirm appropriate model fitting, and consider clinical plausibility for interpretation when utilizing regression models in their research.
A New Algorithm for Secondary Repair of Unilateral Cleft Lip Nasal Deformity
Authors: Chen Yunzhu , Wang Xiancheng , Wu Jingjing , Zeng Weiliang , Yang Kai , Sun Yang , Xiong Xiang , Meng Xianxi , Li Wenbo , Yi Zhongjie , Fang Bairong 
Published: November 2023

ObjectivesFollowing primary surgery for unilateral cleft lip palate (UCLP), cleft lip nasal deformities (CLNDs) (nasal asymmetry, collapsed nasal alae, and a widened alar base) are generally inevitable and often require secondary rhinoplasty. However, reconstructing a cleft nose with an alar tissue deficiency remains challenging for rhinoplasty surgeons.MethodsThe manifestations of common deformities are described herein, and a secondary rhinoplasty technique for unilateral CLNDs using a nasolabial flap (NLF) has been proposed for patients with alar tissue deficiency. Secondary rhinoplasties were performed in 12 patients with unilateral CLNDs between 2020 and 2021 using a NLF. Photogrammetric measurements were performed preoperatively and postoperatively. A total of 12 flaps were successfully transferred. Ten patients were followed up for >1 year.ResultsSignificant postoperative decreases in nasal alar width were measured in both the base view (p < 0.050) and the frontal view (p < 0.050). Despite the additional facial scars that occurred in some cases, all patients were satisfied with the aesthetic effects.ConclusionsThe NLF achieved satisfactory results in secondary rhinoplasty of unilateral CLND for patients with nasal tissue deficiencies in whom the surgeon weighed the potential benefits over postoperative scarring.Level of Evidence4 Laryngoscope, 134:1648–1655, 2024
Observation of Analog Flatland Cherenkov Radiations on Metasurfaces
Authors: Xu Zhixia , Bao Shuo , Liu Junfeng , Chang Jie , Kong Xianghong , Galdi Vincenzo , Cui Tie Jun 
Published: November 2023

AbstractRecent theoretical studies have suggested the existence of a lower‐dimensional version of the Cherenkov radiation, known as “flatland Cherenkov radiation” (FCR). FCR is generated by leakage from a surface‐wave waveguide while being entirely confined in a plane. Here, a metasurface platform is proposed for generating and observing FCR, which is characterized by alternated regions of capacitive and inductive surface impedance, supporting transverse electric (TE) and magnetic (TM) surface waves (SWs), respectively. For experimental demonstration, a microwave setup is presented, and measured results are compared with numerical simulations and theoretical predictions. The study shows that the phase velocities of different SWs can be controlled by structural designs, and suitably fast TE SWs can excite FCR in the form of slower TM SWs. FCR has unique properties such as directionality, tunability, and subwavelength confinement. The proposed platform has important potential to enable nanophotonic applications based on 2D optics, such as agile waveguiding and scanning.
Undrained expansion analyses of a cylindrical cavity in anisotropic sands incorporating the SANISAND model
Authors: Pang Li , Jiang Chong , Zhang Chaoyang 
Published: November 2023

AbstractSoils are known to be inherently anisotropic, resulting in complex responses to loading. This paper aims to develop an elastoplastic solution for the undrained expansion of a cylindrical cavity in sands adopting a non‐associated and anisotropic model, SANISAND. The rigorous derivation of the stress‐strain state of the soil element is provided following a standardized solving procedure. The dilatancy and crushing of the soil are invoked in the three‐dimensional cavity expansion solution by adopting the critical state soil mechanics and limiting compression curve, respectively. By combining this with a governing equation that considers the undrained condition, the stress‐strain state of the surrounding soil around the cavity can be determined. A subroutine is then implemented into the ABAQUS FEM simulation to verify the solution. The solutions are also validated against those based on an isotropic model, and anisotropic sand is used to investigate the effects of the initial effective mean stress, at‐rest coefficient of earth pressure, and overconsolidation ratio on the stress distribution, stress path, and boundary surfaces.
Preparation and properties of water‐borne polyurethane‐sodium lignosulfonate/nano‐calcium carbonate composites
Authors: Pan Guanghua , Li Xing , Xu Wenqin , Xie Qinglin , Chen Nanchun 
Published: November 2023

AbstractTo improve the application range of waterborne polyurethane (WPU), in this study, nano calcium carbonate/sodium lignosulfonate (CaCO3/SL) composites were prepared using sodium lignosulfonate (SL) wet‐modified calcium carbonate nanoparticles. Then, a series of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) nanocomposites (WPU‐CaCO3/SL) were prepared by solution mixing. Zeta, FT‐IR, XRD, SEM, and TGA were used to characterize the structure and morphology of CaCO3/SL and WPU‐CaCO3/SL. By conducting an analysis on the impact of various dosages of CaCO3/SL composite on the performance of WPU, the findings revealed that the tensile strength of WPU‐CaCO3/SL nanocomposites, when composed with a 3 wt% CaCO3/SL dosage, exhibited a significant increase of 116% from 6.93 to 14.95 mPa. The water contact angle demonstrated a significant increase from 78.3° to 90.1°. Additionally, the maximum decomposition temperature showed a noticeable rise of approximately 7°C. The WPU exhibit enhanced heat resistance, water resistance and mechanical properties, as well as exceptional ultraviolet (UV) absorption capabilities. This study provides a reference for modifying polymers with inorganic fillers and improving the optical properties of polymeric materials.Highlights
Successful modification of nano calcium carbonate using biopolymer SL.
Modified CaCO3/SL can be uniformly dispersed in water.
Improved thermal stability of WPU composites.
WPU composites exhibit excellent mechanical properties and water resistance.
Well‐dispersed CaCO3/SL improves ultraviolet radiation resistance of WPU composites.
Acoustic emission characteristics of waste fiber‐reinforced recycled high‐density polyethylene composites under damage conditions
Authors: Xu Runmin , Wang Chen , Xu Kangkang , Liu Guanghui , Wang Hao , Zhu Shiliu , Chen Yuxia , Guo Yong 
Published: November 2023

AbstractAcoustic emission (AE) technology provides a novel approach for studying the damage and fracture behavior of wood‐plastic composites (WPCs) during their application process. This method allows rapid and precise analysis of the mechanical properties of materials, which is a significant advancement for the emerging WPC industry. Hence, a blend of waste floor sanding powder (FSP) and rice husk (RH) reinforced recycled high‐density polyethylene (Re‐HDPE) was prepared by the extrusion method. The AE technique, scanning electron microscopy, and finite element method (FEM) were used to analyze the damage and fracture behavior of the composite materials under a three‐point bending test. The results indicated that the bearing capacity of RH/Re‐HDPE composites was slightly higher than that of FSP/Re‐HDPE composites. The AE technique can better illustrate the damage evolution and fracture process of composites and determine the damage degree and mode. Matrix cracking and deformation were more pronounced in the FSP/Re‐HDPE composites. Fiber breakage and delamination were more prominent in the RH/Re‐HDPE composites. In addition, repeated loading caused irreversible damage to the composite. The increase in temperature led to the attenuation of the AE signal and a decrease in matrix strength. However, when the temperature reached a certain point, the cumulative AE ringing count increased again because the higher temperature improved the fiber–matrix interface strength, which partially canceled out the negative effect. In addition, Abaqus was used for simulation analysis, and the running results coincided with the experimental value.Highlights
RH/Re‐HDPE and FSP/Re‐HDPE are sustainability and low‐cost composites.
AE can determine the degree and mode of damage of WPC at different temperatures.
The AE curves of RH/Re‐HDPE and FSP/Re‐HDPE all pass through four stages.
Heating reduced the matrix strength and improved the interface strength of WPC.
The results of FEM were consistent with the experimental results.
Summative evaluation of implementation of Jordan's national anti‐corruption strategy, 2013–2017, in the perspective of public choice theory
Authors: Abuhummour Anan M. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThis summative evaluation's objective is to evaluate the degree to which Jordan's National Anti‐corruption Strategy (JNACS) effectively and sustainably achieves its objectives in the war against corruption, with particular reference to the Anti‐corruption Commission (JACC). This evaluation analyzes certain indicators and methods used to combat corruption in the public service. This evaluation considers the before and after approach. Pre‐implementation and post‐implementation periods were compared using trend analysis to show the difference between pre‐implementation and post‐implementation of JNACS from 2013 to 2017. A line chart and interrupted time series were used to display trends over time, and the Wilcoxon signed test was utilized. Our summative evaluation findings are mainly structured by the evaluation criteria of effectiveness, efficiency, and relevance. These findings illustrate the difficulty and challenge of making progress in the war against corruption in Jordan. This evaluation has indicated that JNACS (2013–2017) was ineffective in strengthening the capacity of the JACC; promoting investigation, prosecution, and court proceedings of corruption; and enhancing international cooperation in the anti‐corruption field. The task of this agency is challenging due to the broad definition of corruption and the increasing demand for its services within a very complicated operational environment. As a result, our summative evaluation makes some policy recommendations after numerous arguments regarding the subject matter.