bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of triage strategies for atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance among young women
Authors: Cubaka Ntamushigo Jeremie , Motshedisi Sebitloane Hannah
Published: September 2024

In the present study we reviewed the existing literature regarding management approaches for ASC‐US and highlight their pros and cons. The ASC‐US entity emerged from Bethesda classification 2001. We conducted this review using search words ASC‐US triage, ASC‐US management in young women, triage tests for ASC‐US, and ASC‐US outcome from the English literature. We included different cervical cancer policies (American, European and for WHO) and research articles published on ASC‐US in young women from the year 2001. We searched in Google Scholar, PubMed, MEDLINE (NCBI) library, Embase (Elsevier), Wiley online library as well as Cochrane library. We defined young women as aged 30 years and below. We identified 52 articles which focused on management approaches of ASC‐US, seven articles focused on young women aged <30 years. Five of these articles combined ASC‐US with low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (ASC‐US/LSIL) while only two addressed ASC‐US as a standalone entity. The limited number of articles restricts the evidence base supporting the adoption of triage strategies. There is yet, no consensus in the literature regarding the management of ASC‐US, more so in young women below the age of 30 years. Researchers, however, agree on a few aspects, which include the necessity for applying a conservative strategy for managing ASC‐US in young women, avoiding direct referral for colposcopy at the initial detection of ASC‐US, and avoiding the use of human papillomavirus (HPV) testing on young women (unless living with HIV). Newer techniques such as HPV E6/E7 messenger RNA (mRNA), and dual staining p16/ki‐67, may serve as better triage to identify cases of HPV persistence and integration which may subsequently lead to preinvasive or invasive lesions.
PLXDC1 serves as a potential prognostic marker and involves in malignant progression and macrophage polarization in colon cancer
Authors: Fu Yu , Zhang Xuan , Qiao Qing
Published: September 2024

The malignant behavior and immune escape ability of cancer cells lead to therapeutic failure and poor prognosis for patients with various cancers, including colon cancer. Plexin domain containing 1 (PLXDC1) was initially identified to exert key roles in tumor by regulating angiogenesis and has recently proved to be involved in cell proliferation and migration of glioblastoma and gastric cancer cells. However, its roles in colon cancer remain unclear. In this study, the online bioinformatics databases confirmed high expression of PLXDC1 in colon cancer specimens, which was associated with cancer stages and nodal metastasis. Similarly, the increased expression of PLXDC1 was also validated in our collected samples and colon cancer cells. Moreover, patients with high expression of PLXDC1 had shorter survival, indicating that PLXDC1 might be a potential prognostic predictor for colon cancer patients. Notably, targeting PLXDC1 inhibited cancer cell viability and invasion, and enhanced cell apoptosis. Intriguingly, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource database confirmed that PLXDC1 expression was related to various tumor‐infiltrating immune cells in colon adenocarcinoma including macrophages, and its expression was also correlated with M2‐like macrophage markers. In vitro, colon cancer cells with PLXDC1 downregulation had a reduced ability to recruit and polarize macrophage towards M2 phenotype by decreasing the percentage of CD206+ cells and M2‐like markers (CD206, CD163, arginase1, and interleukin 10 [IL‐10]). Moreover, PLXDC1 knockdown attenuated M2 macrophage‐mediated promotion in cancer cell viability and invasion. Mechanically, inhibition of PLXDC1 suppressed activation of the IL‐6/Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling. Reactivating the above pathway by transfection with IL‐6 plasmids reversed the suppressive effects of PLXDC1 knockdown on cancer cell malignant behaviors, macrophage recruitment and M2‐like polarization. Thus, PLXDC1 downregulation may inhibit the malignancy of colon cancer cells and their ability to recruit and polarize macrophages towards M2 phenotype by blocking the IL‐6/STAT3 pathway. Together, targeting PLXDC1 may attenuate the progression of colon cancer by direct roles in cancer cells and indirect roles in macrophage polarization, representing a promising therapeutic target for colon cancer patients.
Evaluating the Association of Anthropometric Indices With Total Cholesterol in a Large Population Using Data Mining Algorithms
Authors: Yousefabadi Sahar Arab , Ghiasi Hafezi Somayeh , Kooshki Alireza , Hosseini Marzieh , Mansoori Amin , Ghamsary Mark , Esmaily Habibollah , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid
Published: September 2024

Background

Unbalanced levels of serum total cholesterol (TC) and its subgroups are called dyslipidemia. Several anthropometric indices have been developed to provide a more accurate assessment of body shape and the health risks associated with obesity. In this study, we used the random forest model (RF), decision tree (DT), and logistic regression (LR) to predict total cholesterol based on new anthropometric indices in a sex‐stratified analysis.

Method

Our sample size was 9639 people in which anthropometric parameters were measured for the participants and data regarding the demographic and laboratory data were obtained. Aiding the machine learning, DT, LR, and RF were drawn to build a measurement prediction model.

Results

Anthropometric and other related variables were compared between both TC <200 and TC ≥200 groups. In both males and females, Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP) had the greatest effect on the risk of TC increase. According to results of the RF model, LAP and Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) were significant variables for men. VAI also had a stronger correlation with HDL‐C and triglyceride. We identified specific anthropometric thresholds based on DT analysis that could be used to classify individuals at high or low risk of elevated TC levels. The RF model determined that the most important variables for both genders were VAI and LAP.

Conclusion

We tend to present a picture of the Persian population's anthropometric factors and their association with TC level and possible risk factors. Various anthropometric indices indicated different predictive power for TC levels in the Persian population.
Refining and expanding applications of Moral Foundations Theory in consumer psychology
Authors: Johnson Wayne , Ramos Guilherme A. , VanEpps Eric M. , Graham Jesse
Published: September 2024

We set forth an agenda for Moral Foundations Theory (MFT) research in consumer psychology, focusing in particular on four pathways: (1) factoring in multiple identities, including moral identities, to account for contextual elevation or suppression of moral foundations in predicting which decisions consumers moralize and when; (2) broadening the methodological usage of MFT to include more targeted causal research as well as expanding the utility of correlational research; (3) increasing discriminant validity between MFT and other constructs by studying moral foundations as individually manipulable and focusing on their incremental predictive validity over and above demographics and related constructs; and (4) recognizing that researcher biases regarding morality can leak into the publication process, necessitating clear distinctions between prescriptive versus descriptive research. These pathways facilitate more precise and stronger predictive validity for applying MFT in consumer psychology, yielding greater theoretical and practical utility across researcher perspectives.
Dynamics of microRNA secreted via extracellular vesicles during the maturation of embryonic stem cell‐derived retinal pigment epithelium
Authors: Pollalis Dimitrios , Nair Gopa Kumar Gopinadhan , Leung Justin , Bloemhof Clarisa Marie , Bailey Jeffrey K. , Pennington Britney O. , Kelly Kaitlin R. , Khan Amir I. , Yeh Ashley K. , Sundaram Kartik S. , Clegg Dennis O. , Peng Chen‐Ching , Xu Liya , Georgescu Constantin , Wren Jonathan D. , Lee Sun Young
Published: September 2024

Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells are exclusive to the retina, critically multifunctional in maintaining the visual functions and health of photoreceptors and the retina. Despite their vital functions throughout lifetime, RPE cells lack regenerative capacity, rendering them vulnerable which can lead to degenerative retinal diseases. With advancements in stem cell technology enabling the differentiation of functional cells from pluripotent stem cells and leveraging the robust autocrine and paracrine functions of RPE cells, extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by RPE cells hold significant therapeutic potential in supplementing RPE cell activity. While previous research has primarily focused on the trophic factors secreted by RPE cells, there is a lack of studies investigating miRNA, which serves as a master regulator of gene expression. Profiling and defining the functional role of miRNA contained within RPE‐secreted EVs is critical as it constitutes a necessary step in identifying the optimal phenotype of the EV‐secreting cell and understanding the biological cargo of EVs to develop EV‐based therapeutics. In this study, we present a comprehensive profile of miRNA in small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) secreted during RPE maturation following differentiation from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs); early‐stage hESC‐RPE (20–21 days in culture), mid‐stage hESC‐RPE (30–31 days in culture) and late‐stage hESC‐RPE (60–61 days in culture). This exploration is essential for ongoing efforts to develop and optimize EV‐based intraocular therapeutics utilizing RPE‐secreted EVs, which may significantly impact the function of dysfunctional RPE cells in retinal diseases.
Differential regulation of physicochemical properties and myofibrillar protein degradation of yak meat by interactions between reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species during postmortem aging
Authors: Yang Xue , Bu Xinrong , Li Yiheng , Shen Ruheng , Duan Yufeng , Shi Hongmei , Kong Xiangying , Zhang Li
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to explore how interactions between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) affect oxidative properties, nitrosative properties, and myofibrillar protein degradation during postmortem aging of yak meat.

RESULTS

Yak longissimus dorsi was incubated with saline, ROS activator (H2O2)/inhibitor N‐Acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) and RNS activator S‐Nitrosoglutathione (GSNO)/inhibitor L‐NAME hydrochloride (L‐NAME) combined treatments at 4 °C for 12, 24, 72, 120, and 168 h. The results indicated that regardless of whether RNS was activated or inhibited, activated ROS played a dominant role in myofibrillar protein degradation by oxidative modification to increase carbonyl content, disulfide bonds, surface hydrophobicity, and dimerized tyrosine while decreasing sulfhydryl content, thereby degrading nebulin, titin, troponin‐t and desmin. Notably, the Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBSF) of the H2O2 + L‐NAME group was the smallest, whereas that of the NAC + GSNO group was smaller than that of the NAC + L‐NAME group.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide new insights into meat tenderization patterns through the interaction between ROS and RNS. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Correlation analysis between Radix Pseudostelariae quality and rhizosphere soil factors of Pseudostellaria heterophylla in a cultivation region, China
Authors: Zheng Jiao , Yang Xin , An Na , Yang Dan
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Pseudostellaria heterophylla, known for its significant bioactive ingredients, offers potential health benefits. Amounts of bioactive compounds of the tuberous root of cultivated Pseudostellaria heterophylla are sensitive to environmental conditions. We selected 22 sampling sites in Guizhou Province, China, a primary Pseudostellaria heterophylla planting area. We analyzed polysaccharides, water‐soluble extractives, total ash and inorganic elements (Fe, Mn, Zn, Mg and Ca) in Radix Pseudostellariae, and pH, organic carbon (OC), available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK) and inorganic elements in the soil.

RESULTS

Our study revealed a substantial presence of polysaccharides (85.00–181.00 mg g−1), water‐soluble extractives (47.52–57.63%) and total ash (1.87–3.39%) in Radix Pseudostellariae. Polysaccharides and total ash showed no sensitivity to soil pH. Radix Pseudostellariae collected from soil with pH > 7 exhibited slightly higher levels of water‐soluble extractives, Mg and Ca than that from soil with pH < 5. Conversely, soil with a pH less than 5 had higher OC, AN, AP and AK contents. Water‐soluble extractives in Radix Pseudostellariae were negatively correlated with soil pH but positively correlated with OC and AN.

CONCLUSION

The results imply that the sequestration of soil nutrients over long‐term Pseudostellaria heterophylla cultivation could negatively impact the accumulation of some bioactive ingredients in Radix Pseudostellariae. This study has a profound implication for enhancing the quality of Radix Pseudostellariae of artificially cultivated Pseudostellaria heterophylla. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Improved encapsulation efficiency and storage stability of lutein by soy protein isolate nanocarriers with thermal and trypsin treatments
Authors: Cheng Yong , Wu Renyi , Xiao Dong , Wang Zhaojun , Chen Qiuming , Zeng Maomao , Qin Fang , Chen Jie , He Zhiyong
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Encapsulation of bioactive compounds within protein‐based nanoparticles has garnered considerable attention in the food and pharmaceutical industries because of its potential to enhance stability and delivery. Soy protein isolate (SPI) has emerged as a promising candidate, prompting the present study aiming to modify its properties through controlled thermal and trypsin treatments for improved encapsulation efficiency (EE) of lutein and its storage stability.

RESULTS

The EE of lutein nanoparticles encapsulated using SPI trypsin hydrolysates (SPIT) with three varying degrees of hydrolysis (4.11%, 6.91% and 10.61% for SPIT1, SPIT2 and SPIT3, respectively) increased by 12.00%, 15.78% and 18.59%, respectively, compared to SPI. Additionally, the photostability of SPIT2 showed a remarkable increase of 38.21% compared to SPI. The superior encapsulation efficiency and photostability of SPIT2 was attributed to increased exposure of hydrophobic groups, excellent antioxidant activity and uniform particle stability, despite exhibiting lower binding affinity to lutein compared to SPI. Furthermore, in SPIT2, the protein structure unfolded, with minimal impact on overall secondary structure upon lutein addition.

CONCLUSION

The precise application of controlled thermal and trypsin treatments to SPI has been shown to effectively produce protein nanoparticles with substantially improved encapsulation efficiency for lutein and enhanced storage stability of the encapsulated lutein. These findings underscore the potential of controlled thermal and trypsin treatments to modify protein properties effectively and offer significant opportunities for expanding the applications of protein‐based formulations across diverse fields. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Additives improve the fermentation quality, anthocyanin content, and biological activity of purple Napier grass silage
Authors: Yin Xiang , Wu Juanyan , Shen Lan , He Qianqian , He Shuzhen , Yuan Muhui , Sun Jianxia , Zhang Jianguo
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Purple Napier grass (PNG), a widely used grass rich in anthocyanin, is commonly employed in the production of silage. However, there is currently limited research on the retention of anthocyanin with or without additives during ensiling. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of different additives (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCZZ1 (LP), glucose, acetic acid, and dried soybean curd residue) on fermentation quality, anthocyanin content, and microbial community structure of PNG silage.

RESULTS

Ensiling PNG without additives led to poor fermentation quality and rapid degradation of anthocyanin, resulting in a decline in antioxidant activity and the persistence of harmful microorganisms with high relative abundance. The use of additives, especially LP, effectively increased the relative abundance of L. plantarum, enhancing fermentation quality, the retention of anthocyanin (up to 166% increase rate) and antioxidant activity, while reducing the relative abundance of harmful microorganisms during ensiling for 30 days. Additionally, prolonged ensiling negatively affected the preservation of anthocyanin. Based on both fermentation quality and bioactivity, PNG should be ensiled for 30 days with LP inoculation.

CONCLUSION

The employment of additives, especially LP, improved the fermentation quality, anthocyanin retention, and microbial community structure in PNG silage. To optimize both fermentation quality and bioactivity, it is recommended that PNG be ensiled for 30 days with LP inoculation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Impact of Monoclonal Antibody Usage on Hearing Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Arya Priya , Salmerón Yansy , Quimby Alexandra E. , Wong Kevin , Brant Jason A. , Hwa Tiffany P.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To ascertain trends in ototoxicity observed with monoclonal antibodies (mABs) and understand the impact they may have on hearing function.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Scopus.

Review Methods

A systematic review was performed following PRISMA guidelines. Data were reviewed for demographics, utilized mABs with respective indication and dosing, audiometric outcomes, and treatment for otologic effects.

Results

Of 757 studies reviewed, a total of 44 were included, encompassing 18,046 patients treated with mABs. Mean age of the sample was 57.8 years old. The search yielded 18 agents of ototoxicity, with reported symptoms of ototoxicity such as hearing loss, tinnitus, and/or aural fullness occurring in 1079 of total patients. Main agents causing ototoxicity were teprotumumab (n = 17/44 studies), nivolumab (n = 10/44), ipilimumab (n = 9/44), pembrolizumab (n = 5/44), and rituximab (n = 4/44). Thirty‐one of 44 studies encompassing eight agents reported audiometric data for ototoxic agents, showing sensorineural hearing loss primarily in the high‐frequency range. Only two articles performed ultrahigh‐frequency audiograms.

Conclusion

Monoclonal antibody usage is expanding, but the vast majority of studies lack substantial audiometric data. Where reported, study design and inclusion criteria vary greatly. Future studies would benefit from rigid inclusion of audiometric data, prospective study design, and consideration of formal ototoxicity screening. Otolaryngologists should be aware of the cochlear immune response and potential impact of this expanding medication class on hearing function. Laryngoscope, 135:491–506, 2025
Lessons for a learning health system: Effectively communicating to patients about research with their health information and biospecimens
Authors: Spector‐Bagdady Kayte , Ryan Kerry A. , Chen Luyun , Giacobone Camille , Jagsi Reshma , Hamasha Reema , Hendy Katherine , Thomas J. Denard , Milne Jessie M. , Vinson Alexandra H. , Platt Jodyn
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Sharing patient health information and biospecimens can improve health outcomes and accelerate breakthroughs in medical research. But patients generally lack understanding of how their clinical data and biospecimens are used or commercialized for research. In this mixed methods project, we assessed the impact of communication materials on patient understanding, attitudes, and perceptions.

Methods

Michigan Medicine patients were recruited for a survey (n = 480) or focus group (n = 33) via a web‐based research study portal. The survey assessed the impact of mode of communication about health data and biospecimen sharing (via an informational poster vs. a news article) on patient perceptions of privacy, transparency, comfort, respect, and trust. Focus groups provided in‐depth qualitative feedback on three communication materials, including a poster, FAQ webpage, and a consent form excerpt.

Results

Among survey respondents, the type of intervention (poster vs. news) made no statistically significant difference in its influence on any characteristic. However, 95% preferred that Michigan Medicine tell them about patient data and biospecimen research sharing versus hearing it from the news. Focus group participants provided additional insights, discussing values and perceptions of altruism and reciprocity, concerns about commercialization, privacy, and security; and the desire for consent, control, and transparency.

Conclusion

Developing our understanding of patient data‐sharing practices and integrating patient preferences into health system policy, through this work and continued exploration, contributes to building infrastructure that can be used to support the development of a learning health system across hospital systems nationally.
Preparation, Structural Analysis, and Growth‐Promoting Effects of Amomum longiligulare Polysaccharide 1‐Mg (II) Complex
Authors: Chen Yijing , Wu Haowen , Zhang Chenglong , Luo Qiyuan , Chen Yun
Published: September 2024

In this study, Amomum longiligulare polysaccharide 1 (ALP1) is used to chelate with magnesium (Mg) to synthesize the ALP1‐Mg (II) complex (ALP1‐Mg). Based on Box‐Behnken response surface design, the optimum technological conditions are 22 mg mL−1 trisodium citrate, 2.10 mol L−1 MgCl2, reaction at 70 °C for 2.9 h, resulting in a maximum Mg content of 2.13%. Next, the physicochemical properties and structural characteristics of ALP1 and ALP1‐Mg are characterized, and the results show that the morphology, conformation, crystallinity, and thermal stability of ALP1‐Mg are changed. In addition, dietary supplementation of 500 mg kg−1 ALP1‐Mg significantly reduces the feed conversion ratio during the grower (15–35 d). Meanwhile, the villus height/crypt depth of the duodenum and ileum are significantly increased, and the relative abundance of Lactobacillus is significantly elevated. Taken together, the results suggest that ALP1‐Mg is a potential growth‐promoting feed additive.
Campaigning to Gen Z: What's the Downside?
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: September 2024

Most business decisions, at least those that are well considered, involve some form of cost‐benefit analysis. Without unlimited resources, we all know that many initiatives are prioritized based on numerous criteria: What will it cost? How much time will it take? How many resources will need to be devoted? What's the upside? What's wrong with holding off for a period of time?
Potential of the Thoracoepigastric Vein as a Drainage Vein in Breast Reconstruction With a Free Flap: An Anatomical Study Using Computed Tomography
Authors: Nemoto Hitoshi , Nakatsuka Kengo , Morita Daiki , Seki Yukio , Imagawa Kotaro , Tsunoda Yotaro , Komaba Chieko , Hanai Ushio
Published: September 2024

Background

The recipient vessel choice is very important when performing free‐flap breast reconstructions. Usually, the concomitant vein of the recipient artery is anastomosed, and mismatches in the diameter are occasionally observed. We consider the thoracoepigastric vein (TEV) as a potential useful recipient vein. The use of the TEV is not a novel technique. It has been used by surgeons for free‐flap anastomoses in the axillary region, but usually as an anastomotic site for the second vein. However, anatomical findings such as TEV diameter, its deficiency rate, and influence on mastectomy are not clear. In this study, computed tomography (CT) was performed to evaluate the use of the TEV as a recipient vein for breast reconstruction.

Methods

The medical records of patients who underwent breast reconstruction with free‐flap transfer were retrospectively evaluated. In most cases, CT was performed using a tissue expander inserted after mastectomy. The TEV was considered suitable if its diameter on the mastectomy side was >1 mm and the vertical distance from the most distal slice level where the TEV could be seen at the third costal cartilage height of the parasternal region was <50 mm.

Results

Sixty‐six sides of 33 patients were evaluated. The mean age of the patients was 49.3 ± 5.1 years. The TEV was used in five flaps. TEV diameters were not significantly different between the left and right sides (1.85 ± 0.53 vs. 1.82 ± 0.6, respectively, p = 0.836). On the mastectomy side, eight (25%) TEVs were injured, but only three (8.6%) were considered unavailable. On the healthy side, 96.4% TEVs were available.

Conclusions

TEVs may be a good choice as vein anastomosis targets for breast reconstruction with a free flap because of their relatively large vessel diameter.

Trial Registration

UMIN‐CTR: R000061573
Attitudes and Beliefs Toward Non‐Specific Neck Pain Among Physiotherapists in Jordan: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Etoom Mohammad , Banibakkar Elham , Abdullahi Auwal , Jahan Alhadi M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Physiotherapists' attitudes and beliefs play a crucial role in the management and treatment outcomes of non‐specific neck pain (NSNP).

Objective

To investigate the attitudes and beliefs of physiotherapists in Jordan towards NSNP, and to identify factors influencing these attitudes and beliefs.

Methods

A Cross‐sectional survey of registered physiotherapists working in Jordan was conducted. A structured questionnaire was used to assess the attitudes and beliefs of physiotherapists towards NSNP. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used.

Results

A total of 301 PTs completed the survey, 155 females (51.56%). Most respondents held bachelor's degrees, with an average of 9.5 ± 6.6 experience years. The total score for PABS‐PT (Z = 11.4, p < 0.001) and its BM (Z = +11.9, p < 0.001) and PS (Z = 3.6, p < 0. 001) subscales were significantly positive. The score of the biomedical subscale was more significantly positive than psychosocial subscale. The treatment orientation was positively correlated with education level, and negatively with age and experience. The most reported treatments were manual therapy followed by general exercises and electrical modalities. No significant relationship was observed between treatment orientation and treatment selection.

Conclusion

This study created the initial profile for pain attitudes and beliefs in Jordan. Physiotherapists hold positive attitudes and beliefs towards the NSNP treatment orientations with a superiority of the BM approach. Engaging educational sectors and stakeholders in the current situation of PTs' attitudes and beliefs is important.
Hypogammaglobulinemia and infection risk in myotonic dystrophy type 1
Authors: El‐Wahsh Shadi , Morris Katrina , Limaye Sandhya , Riminton Sean , Corbett Alastair , Triplett James D.
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Aims

Hypogammaglobulinemia is a common yet under‐recognized feature of myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). The aims of our study were to determine the frequency of immunoglobulin G (IgG) deficiency in our cohort, to examine the association between immunoglobulin levels and cytosine–thymine–guanine (CTG) repeat length in the DMPK gene, and to assess whether IgG levels are associated with an increased risk of infection in DM1 patients.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center, retrospective cross‐sectional study of 65 adult patients with DM1 who presented to the Neuromuscular Clinic at Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia, between January 2002 and January 2022. We systematically collected and analyzed clinical, laboratory, and genetic data for all patients with available serum electrophoresis and/or IgG level results.

Results

Forty‐one percent of DM1 patients had IgG deficiency despite normal lymphocyte counts, IgA, IgM, and albumin levels. There was an association between CTG repeat expansion size and the degree of IgG deficiency (F = 6.3, p = .02). There was no association between IgG deficiency and frequency of infection in this group (p = .428).

Discussion

IgG deficiency is a frequent occurrence in DM1 patients and is associated with CTG repeat expansion size. Whether hypogammaglobulinemia is associated with increased infection risk in DM1 is unclear. A prospective multicenter cohort study is needed to evaluate this.
Anxiolytic and sedative effects of sodium valproate with different experimental paradigms in male and female rats
Authors: de los Ángeles Cintado María , De la Casa Luis Gonzalo , González Gabriel
Published: September 2024

Valproic acid or sodium valproate is a widely used drug in the treatment of epilepsy, although it also appears to have anxiolytic and sedative properties derived from its agonistic action on the GABAergic system. To analyze these potential effects of the drug, we conducted three experiments with rats using procedures designed to assess anxiety in rodents. In the first experiment, with a fear conditioning procedure, three groups of male rats were included that received either 100 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg of valproate or an equivalent volume of saline solution. In Experiment 2, recording spontaneous activity in an open field, we compared the effects of valproic acid (300 mg/kg) on male and female rats. In the third experiment, we analyzed the effect of valproic acid using a novelty‐induced hypophagia test and tested again for potential differences as a function of the sex of the animals. The results showed an anxiolytic effect restricted to the 300 mg/kg dose of the drug in Experiment 1. Such an effect was restricted to the female sample in Experiment 2, but in the third experiment affected both sexes. As for the sedative effect, it was observed in all experiments irrespective of the sex of the rats. These findings hold significant implications for the treatment of anxiety disorders since valproate may offer a novel therapeutic approach for anxiety‐related conditions with distinct benefits and fewer side effects. However, clinical studies are needed to validate the translation of these findings from animal models to human patients.
Be Pro Be Proud as a Water Professional
Authors: England Will
Published: September 2024

Historically, the prevailing belief has been that “you must go to college to get a good job.” Although this was true for previous generations, access to college has become more attainable today, leading to less interest and a deficit in the skilled trades workforce. Our society requires a balance between college education and skilled trades.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Improve Data Validation
Authors: Gouge Brian
Published: September 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) can assist with time‐series data corrections, relieving a bottleneck in a water utility's quality assurance processes. AI's speed and accuracy can help reduce water scarcity and ultimately improve the global water crisis.
Operators Need to Know Water Reuse
Authors: Ikehata Keisuke , Adams Hunter , Southard Mark , Ash Steve , Nix Daniel K. , Steinle‐Darling Eva , Montoya‐Halter Christina
Published: September 2024

Understanding the increased use and practicality of water reuse will help operators when reuse is implemented in their system.
Looking for Causes of Problems in Your Water System
Authors: Cantor Abigail F.
Published: September 2024

Analyzing correlated parameters can help water managers find and prove the cause of a water quality change.
Role, education, policies and competencies for advanced practice in paediatric haematology‐oncology nursing in Europe: A scoping review
Authors: Amicucci Matteo , Trigoso Eugenia , Nori Mariagrazia , Colomer‐Lahiguera Sara , Rostagno Elena , Biagioli Valentina , Sansone Vincenza , Zibaldo Andrea , Mastria Andrea , Partel Moreno Crotti , Canesi Marta , Schiopu Andreea Cristina , Dall'Oglio Immacolata
Published: September 2024

The aim of this scoping review is to describe the role, education, policies/regulation, skills and competencies required for advanced practice in paediatric haematology‐oncology nursing in Europe, highlighting the differences in development between the different European countries. A scoping review was conducted following the methodological framework of guidelines by Arksey and O'Malley and the recommendations for advancing the methodology by Levac et al. We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, grey literature, webpages, reference lists and performed a manual search, without any restrictions on language or time. The intersection between databases, grey literature and evidence documents traced from the sites of the most authoritative European organisations in the field made it possible to identify the regulatory and training differences between the various countries that were examined. This scoping review highlights how advanced knowledge and competences are used in the care of paediatric haematology‐oncology patients, which are strictly necessary for implementing quality care. At present these competences are not recognised in policies and regulation in most of the countries that were examined. It is desirable that all EU member states work to implement a radical change and allow these more competent figures to assist patients in the best possible way.
Investigation on damage behaviors of carbon fiber‐reinforced nylon 6 thermoplastic composite laminates using acoustic emission and digital image correlation techniques
Authors: Zhu Jixin , Hu Kejun , Han Wenqin , Shi Qinghe , Wang Yingming , Zhao Fengling , Zhu Fuxian
Published: September 2024

The objective of this paper is to analyze the mechanical properties and damage mechanisms of carbon fiber‐reinforced polyamide thermoplastic composite laminates. Four specimens with different ply orientations were designed for open‐hole tensile experiments, and interlaminar toughness experiments including double cantilever beam and end‐notched flexural were carried out. The experimental process was monitored synchronously using acoustic emission, and the strain field changes of the tensile specimens were captured using digital image correlation technology. The unsupervised clustering of the peak frequencies of the acoustic emission signals based on the K‐means++ algorithm was employed to ascertain the peak frequency ranges corresponding to the various damage modes. Typical signals from different specimens were selected, and the gray wolf algorithm was used to optimize the variational modal parameters to decompose the signals. The waveform characteristics, frequency components, and Hilbert spectra of each damage mode were given. The correlation analysis of the intrinsic mode function (IMF) components of the same damage in different specimens demonstrated that the IMF components exhibited high similarity. By analyzing the time series changes in the energy of each damage mode in different specimens, the contribution of different damage modes to the evolution of laminated plate damage was evaluated.

Highlights

The mechanical properties of CF/PA6 laminates were investigated based on open‐hole tensile specimens and pre‐cracked delamination specimens.

Unsupervised clustering of AE peak frequencies using K‐means++ to establish the relationship between peak frequencies and damage patterns.

AE counts and cumulative energy were used to assess damage evolution.

By identifying a single damage signal and providing a more intuitive treatment of the damage energy evolution.
Hygrothermal aging effects on the mechanical behaviors of twill‐woven carbon fiber composite laminates with flame‐retardant epoxy resin
Authors: Zhong Jinru , Ma Junwei , Sun Weikang , Lei Zuxiang , Yin Binbin
Published: September 2024

Composite structures are frequently exposed to varying hygrothermal environments, which can lead to the deterioration of their mechanical properties. This study explores the effects of hygrothermal aging on the mechanical behaviors of twill‐woven carbon fiber composite laminates, with a particular focus on laminates with flame‐retardant epoxy resin (CF_FR)—a relatively underexplored area. The findings reveal several key insights: (1) CF_FR exhibit more pronounced aging damage compared to those with general epoxy resin (CF_G), primarily due to higher moisture absorption, which results in increased surface swelling and internal delamination. (2) Hygrothermal aging enhances the impact resistance of both types of laminates by increasing peak force, particularly at higher temperatures, thereby reducing impact‐induced damage. (3) CF_FR suffers greater reductions in compressive and compression after impact (CAI) strength following aging, with CAI strength decreasing by 36.3% for flame‐retardant laminates and 14.8% for CF_G after immersion at 70°C. (4) Significant local buckling is observed in the swollen regions of CF_FR under compressive loading, indicating an heightened vulnerability to structural instability after aging. These findings offer valuable insights into the performance of composite materials under prolonged moisture exposure, particularly in safety‐critical applications where both flame retardancy and mechanical integrity are crucial.

Highlights

More aging damage is captured from laminates with flame‐retardant epoxy resin

Aging temperatures alleviate LVI induced damage and improve the peak force

Compressive and CAI strength are affected after prolonged aging conditions

CAI strength of CF_FR decreases by 36.3% after exposure to the 70°C water bath

Significant local buckling is observed in CF_FR under compressive loading
Perioperative hemodynamic parameters monitored by three noninvasive technologies in children with congenital heart disease: A prospective study
Authors: Xiong Xiaoyu , Xu Feng , Qiu Wei , Li Shaojun , Liu Chengjun
Published: September 2024

This study aims to compare the efficiencies of three noninvasive technologies in monitoring the perioperative hemodynamics of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) including ventricular septal defects with or without atrial septal defects. Three noninvasive technologies included transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), electrical cardiometry (EC), and vasoactive inotropic score (VIS). Parameters included left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and cardiac index (cardiac index monitored by ultrasound, uCI) in TTE, cardiac index (cardiac index monitored by electrical cardiometry, eCI) and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI) in EC, and VIS. Seventy‐four children were eligible. Three types of adverse events (AEs) related to disease activity and prognosis were observed, including cardio‐pulmonary resuscitation in five cases (5/74, 6.76%), hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage in four cases (4/74, 5.41%) and hemopurification in four cases (4/74, 5.41%). Except for LVEF, eight parameters (VISmax [maximum VIS], VISmea [mean VIS], uCImea [mean uCI], uCImin [minimum uCI], eCImea [mean eCI], eCImin [minimum eCI], SVRImea [mean SVRI], and SVRImin [minimum SVRI]) showed predictive value for any AE (p < 0.05). VISmea, uCImea, and eCImea demonstrated the highest accuracy and linear associations (AUROC > 0.9, p = 0.00). Linear associations also existed between the three groups of parameters and the duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) and the length of stay (LOS) in the intensive care unit (ICU). The duration of MV and the LOS in the ICU increased as VISmea rose, or uCImea and eCImea fell (p < 0.05). LVEF in TTE could not predict any AE (p > 0.05) and not fully reflect the cardiovascular function. Therefore, most parameters obtained in TTE, EC, and VIS can reflect the perioperative hemodynamics of children with CHD, with VISmea, uCImea, and eCImea being most accurate.
PLA/CB and HDPE/CB conductive polymer composites: Effect of polymer matrix structure on the rheological and electrical percolation threshold
Authors: Pê Filipe R. , Rodrigues Túlio A. C. S. , da Cunha Rafael B. , Cavalcanti Shirley N. , da Silva Moacy P. , Agrawal Pankaj , Brito Gustavo F. , de Mélo Tomás J. A.
Published: September 2024

In this study, the effect of the polymer matrix structure on the rheological and electrical percolation threshold of polymer/carbon black (CB) conductive polymer composites (CPCs) was investigated. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) were used as polymer matrices. Through rheological analyses, an increase in complex viscosity was observed with increasing CB concentration, accompanied by a reduction in the Newtonian plateau. Additionally, an increase in the solid‐like behavior was observed, suggesting the formation of a percolated network. The rheological percolation threshold was found to be 5.13% CB mass fraction for the PLA/CB composite and 10.72% for the HDPE/CB composite. Electrical conductivity results were fitted to the sigmoidal Boltzmann model, and its derivative was used to identify the electrical percolation threshold. For PLA/CB, this threshold was reached at 5.39% CB mass fraction, while for HDPE/CB, it occurred at 5.75%. Morphology analysis by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy indicated that the polymer matrix structure affected the distribution/dispersion of the CB particles within the polymer matrix.

Highlights

The effect of polymer matrix structure on polymer/CB CPCs was investigated.

The crystallinity of the polymer matrix affected the percolation threshold.

PLA/CB showed higher conductivity than HDPE/CB CPCs.
The PERMA model of well‐being and student engagement amid Covid‐19: A two‐wave study among a sample of Filipino university students
Authors: Miranda Jonee O. , Tulabut Olga Angelinetta P. , De Ala Cherry Lou , Gonzales Abigail , M. Embalsado Justin Vianey , Estacio Lee Vergel , Mandap Irish , Medina Aira Joy Keynn , Montoya Mary Anne Joseph , Balilu Beatriz , Leon June Rivera‐De , Mangalus Roger , Pare Ericka Lance , Cruz Reymond Neal C.
Published: September 2024

Previous research has underscored the negative effects on students of the abrupt shift to online delivery of education due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Positive education applies the principles of positive psychology to education, which highlights the importance of students' well‐being and fosters holistic development. This study investigated whether students' well‐being at the start of the semester can predict their academic engagement mid‐way through the semester. We collected data on students' well‐being and academic engagement in two waves; first, at the beginning of the semester (Time 1) and then 3 months in the semester (Time 2). We tested the students' general well‐being and the positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning, accomplishment (PERMA) elements at Time 1 with their academic engagement in terms of behavioral, emotional, and cognitive facets at Time 2. Our results show that general well‐being at Time positively predicts their total academic engagement and all engagement facets. However, among the PERMA elements, the Meaning element is not correlated with students' engagement or any of its facets. We also tested whether there was a significant change in student well‐being and engagement from the start of the semester and midway through. We found that there is a significant small increase in well‐being and engagement. Our findings suggest the importance of well‐being as a potentially positive resource for students where students with better well‐being tend to be more academically engaged. Educational institutions may consider fostering student well‐being in their goals to improve the academic success of students.
The mediating effect of adolescents' emotional regulation strategies on their psychological resilience
Authors: Üstündağ Alev
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyse emotional regulation and psychological resilience in adolescents, exploring various variables and their interrelationships. A descriptive and relational survey model was used in the study, which included a sample of 967 adolescents in Turkey. Data were collected using a “Personal Information Form,” the “Emotion Regulation Scale for Adolescents” and the “Adolescents Psychological Resilience Scale.” The results showed that adolescents' psychological resilience differed according to gender and maternal education level, while emotional regulation strategies differed according to gender, socioeconomic level and parental education level. There was a relationship between adolescents' psychological resilience and their internal functional emotional regulation strategies. Furthermore, factors such as peer support, school support, adjustment and empathy were found to be effective in improving adolescents' emotional regulation strategies.
Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinical experiences: A narrative review of curricula and educational interventions
Authors: Vernacchia Cara , Brown Elizabeth , Mhatre Priya , Rydberg Leslie
Published: September 2024

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) is a specialty of medicine that focuses on function and the care of people with disabilities. Many medical schools offer PM&R content by means of PM&R clerkships for career development purposes with varying curricula and assessments; however, there is limited information regarding the optimal way to teach clinical skills relating to the field of PM&R. This narrative review study was performed to evaluate PM&R specific clinical curricular interventions. The review included a PubMed search that yielded 63 articles and a Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) search of 175 articles. A total of 14 articles were selected for review. PM&R clerkships were found to have a variety of educational interventions, including inpatient and outpatient clinical experiences, lectures, Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), case discussions, written examinations, physical examination sessions, cadaver sessions, small group discussions, and virtual education. PM&R rotations can improve neurologic and musculoskeletal physical examination skills, PM&R specific knowledge, and confidence in PM&R skills. More research is needed to determine the optimal methods to teach and assess PM&R knowledge and skills in the clinical setting to drive future PM&R curriculum development and educational innovations.
The Impact of Depression on Adherence to Diabetes Self‐Management Behaviors in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Vasa Devarshi , Guerra Lauren , Goel Mita S. , Harris Yael Tobi , Lin Jenny J.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Breast cancer survivors (BCS) have higher rates of depression which is associated with lower adherence to medications, diet, and physical activity. Managing diabetes (DM) requires adherence to several of these self‐management behaviors (SMB), and BCS have an increased risk of DM. We investigated whether depressive symptoms were associated with adherence to DM SMB in a cohort of BCS.

Methods

BCS with DM were surveyed semiannually for 2 years. Depression was assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Adherence to DM medication, diet, and physical activity was self‐reported using the Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS), Summary of Diabetes Self‐Care Activities Assessment (SDSCA), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), respectively. Using generalized linear equation modeling, the association of depressive symptoms with nonadherence to SMB was assessed, adjusting for age, race, marital status, education level, and beliefs about cancer and DM risk.

Results

Among 244 BCS with DM, those who were nonadherent to medication, diet, and/or physical activity had higher depression scores (p < 0.01). In adjusted analyses, higher depression scores were independently associated with dietary (OR = 1.16, p < 0.001) and physical activity nonadherence (OR = 1.18, p < 0.001) but not with medication nonadherence. Concerns about medications was independently associated with medication nonadherence (OR = 1.17, p = 0.024).

Conclusions

Higher depression scores are associated with nonadherence to DM SMB in this cohort of BCS. These findings highlight the importance of addressing depressive symptoms in BCS to help improve adherence to DM medications, diet, and physical activity.