bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The secreted tyrosine phosphatase PtpA promotes
Staphylococcus aureus
survival in RAW 264.7 macrophages through decrease of the SUMOylation host response
Authors: Youssouf Nadhuma , Martin Marianne , Bischoff Markus , Soubeyran Philippe , Gannoun-Zaki Laila , Molle Virginie
Published: October 2023

Staphylococcus aureus
is a human pathogen that is extremely adaptable and is the cause of a variety of nosocomial and community-acquired infectious diseases. During infection,
S. aureus
is able to affect the host cell in many ways to enable its own multiplication, spread, and evasion of the host immune defense. One of the mechanisms utilized by
S. aureus
to survive is to inhibit the SUMOylation of host proteins in order to increase its intracellular survival and persistence. Here, we show that the reduction in the levels of cellular SUMO-conjugated proteins in
S. aureus
strain Newman-infected RAW 264.7 cells is associated with the
S. aureus
secreted protein tyrosine phosphatase PtpA, which results in a reduction of ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 9 (Ubc9) protein level, the critical enzyme of the SUMOylation modification. In addition, we demonstrate that the amino acid residue D120, which is essential for PtpA phosphatase activity, is required for this reduction. This study shows for the first time that
S. aureus
strain Newman impedes via PtpA the host SUMOylation response, which contributes to promoting the persistence of
S. aureus
within the host.

IMPORTANCE

Staphylococcus aureus
uses numerous strategies to survive and persist in the intracellular environment of professional phagocytes, including modulation of the SUMOylation process. This study aims to understand how
S. aureus
alters host SUMOylation to enhance its intracellular survival in professional phagocytes. Our results indicate that
S. aureus
strain Newman utilizes PtpA-driven phosphorylation to decrease the amount of SUMOylated proteins in murine macrophages to facilitate its survival in this immune cell type.
A long-lived mafic magma reservoir: Zircon evidence from a hornblende peridotite in the Hida Belt, Japan
Authors: Itano Keita , Takehara Mami , Horie Kenji , Iizuka Tsuyoshi , Nishio Ikuya , Morishita Tomoaki
Published: October 2023

Zircon geochronology has contributed to our understanding of the longevity of transcrustal magmatic systems; however, most studies focus on zircon records from felsic rocks due to the restricted occurrence of zircon in mafic-ultramafic rocks. We present U–Pb age, geochemical, and Hf–O isotope data for zircons from a hornblendite peridotite in the Hida Belt, Japan, that offers a unique opportunity to investigate the lifetime of a long-lived mafic plumbing system in an arc setting. We found two zircon U–Pb age clusters: an incompatible element-rich cluster at 196 Ma and an incompatible element-poor cluster at 186 Ma. Their homogeneous isotopic signatures (δ18O = 7.7‰ ± 0.8‰, εHf = 10.3‰ ± 1.7‰) indicate the same magma source despite the 10 m.y. age gap. These two clusters are explained by different zircon formation mechanisms that differ depending on whether or not zircon saturation requires differentiated melt with high SiO2. The enriched older zircons formed by local zircon saturation at the mafic melt-olivine interface, whereas the younger depleted zircons precipitated from the last drop of interstitial felsic melt co-existing with hornblendes. Our finding substantiates the longevity of mafic systems at lower crusts, which sustain transcrustal magma systems and crustal evolution.
Ice-rafted dropstones at midlatitudes in the Cretaceous of continental Iberia
Authors: Rodríguez-López Juan Pedro , Liesa Carlos L. , Luzón Aránzazu , Muñoz Arsenio , Mayayo María J. , Murton Julian B. , Soria Ana R.
Published: October 2023

The Cretaceous is widely considered to have been a period subjected to super-greenhouse conditions. Here, we provide multiscale sedimentologic evidence of glaciers developing at mid-paleolatitudes (~45°N) in continental Iberia during the Hauterivian cold snap. Striated and faceted ice-rafted glacial dropstones (cobble to boulder size) and striated and grooved silt- to sand-sized grains (ice-rafted debris [IRD]) occur in a lacustrine sequence of the Enciso Group in the eastern Cameros Basin, Spain. The ice-rafted materials constitute the first evidence reported for a Cretaceous continental cryospheric record in Europe, and they are attributed to calving of glacier snouts, releasing icebergs into an ice-contact lake. The sedimentary succession resembles glacial-deglacial records in lakes overridden by the late Pleistocene Laurentide Ice Sheet in eastern Arctic Canada. The Iberian glacial succession was coeval with plateau permafrost in Asia and IRD records in the Arctic and Australia, revealing a stronger than previously thought cryosphere during the global Hauterivian cold snap.
Voriconazole-induced psychosis in rhino-orbital invasive aspergillosis
Authors: Rekha H Swarna , Paramasivam Sabharisan , Raja Kalaiarasi , Bharadwaj Balaji
Published: October 2023

Aspergillosis is a challenging fungal infection. Voriconazole is an antifungal drug belonging to the triazole group, commonly used for treating invasive aspergillosis,Cryptococcus neoformansand candida infections. We present a case of a man in his late 70s diagnosed with rhino-orbital invasive aspergillosis who developed voriconazole-induced psychosis as an idiosyncratic, adverse drug reaction (ADR); however, he responded to the cessation of intravenous voriconazole and, after starting on an oral antipsychotic, haloperidol. Clinicians need to be cognizant of this rare, idiosyncratic and iatrogenic ADR to voriconazole.
Effects of combined physical and cognitive program performed in socially enriched environment on older people’s cognitive abilities and quality of life (StimCoAPS): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gonnord Tiphanie , Clarys David ,   StimCoAPS Consortium, Dupuy Olivier , Albouy Marion , Migeot Virginie , Grangeiro Rebeca , Esnard Catherine , Boucard Geoffroy
Published: October 2023

The number of older people worldwide is constantly increasing. However, ageing is accompanied by a decline in cognitive ability that can affect quality of life. Cognitive, physical and social activities can all slow this decline but social factors and their contribution to the well-being remain under-researched. The aim of this study is to analyse how the practice environment can foster these social relations and thus enhance well-being and to identify the psychological dimensions that are activated by social relations. This study is a 3-year randomised controlled trial designed to assess the effects on participants’ cognitive abilities and quality of life of a combined (ie, physical and cognitive) training programme in different social practice environments. A total of 159 older people (≥65 years old) will be recruited and randomly assigned to one of three practice environments: individual practice at home (n=53), group practice in a gymnasium (n=53) and group practice in an enriched environment (n=53). All participants will complete 12-week combined training sessions and will be assessed four times: before the start, in the middle, at the end and 6 months after the end of the programme. They will undergo cognitive function (episodic memory and executive functions), physical capacity (aerobic fitness, muscle strength and dynamic balance) and psychosocial assessments (indicators of psychological well-being, social support, self-esteem, anxiety, depression and achievement goal strategies), as well as semistructured interviews. Statistical analyses will be conducted to assess the effect of the practice environment on the perceived benefits of this programme in terms of cognitive abilities and quality of life, and to determine the role of psychosocial factors in this relationship.

This protocol has been approved by an institutional review board (CERSTAPS: IRB00012476-2022-20-01-146). Trials registration number:NCT05721508.
Childhood contact with social services and risk of suicide or sudden death in young adulthood: identifying hidden risk in a population-wide cohort study
Authors: McKenna Sarah , O'Reilly Dermot , Maguire Aideen
Published: October 2023

Background

Childhood out-of-home care is associated with premature death in adulthood, in particular death by suicide, accidents and violence. However, little is known about the mortality risk in the much larger population of adults that had contact with social services in childhood but never entered out-of-home care. We determine the association between all tiers of contact with children’s social services and risk of suicide and other sudden deaths in young adulthood.

Methods

This population-wide, longitudinal, record-linkage study of adults in Northern Ireland born between 1985 and 1997 (n=437 008) followed each individual from age 18 years to July 2021 (maximum age 36 years). Cox regression models estimated the association between level of contact with social services in childhood (no contact; referred but assessed as not in need (NIN); child in need (CIN) and child in care (CIC)) and risk of death by suicide and sudden death in young adulthood.

Results

Individuals with childhood social care contact (n=51 097) comprised 11.7% of the cohort yet accounted for 35.3% of sudden deaths and 39.7% of suicide deaths. Risk of suicide or sudden death increased stepwise with level of childhood contact and was highest in adults with a history of out-of-home care (suicide HR 8.85 (95% CI 6.83 to 11.4)). Individuals assessed as NIN, and those deemed a CIN, had four times the risk of death by suicide in young adulthood compared with unexposed peers (HR 4.25 (95% CI 3.26 to 5.53) and HR 4.49 (95% CI 3.75 to 5.39), respectively).

Conclusion

Childhood contact with social services is a risk marker for death by suicide and sudden death in young adulthood. Risk is not confined to adults with a history of out-of-home care but extends to the much larger population that had contact with social services but never entered care.
Evidence of a genetic background predisposing to complex regional pain syndrome type 1
Authors: Shaikh Samiha S , Goebel Andreas , Lee Michael C , Nahorski Michael S , Shenker Nicholas , Pamela Yunisa , Drissi Ichrak , Brown Christopher , Ison Gillian , Shaikh Maliha F , Kuttikat Anoop , Woods William A , Dixit Abhishek , Stouffer Kaitlin , Clarke Murray CH , Menon David K , Woods C Geoffrey
Published: October 2023

Background

Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS-1) is a rare, disabling and sometimes chronic disorder usually arising after a trauma. This exploratory study examined whether patients with chronic CRPS-1 have a different genetic profile compared with those who do not have the condition.

Methods

Exome sequencing was performed to seek altered non-synonymous SNP allele frequencies in a discovery cohort of well-characterised patients with chronic CRPS-1 (n=34) compared with population databases. Identified SNP alleles were confirmed by Sanger sequencing and sought in a replication cohort (n=50). Gene expression of peripheral blood macrophages was assessed.

Results

In the discovery cohort, the rare allele frequencies of four non-synonymous SNPs were statistically increased. The replication cohort confirmed this finding. In a chronic pain cohort, these alleles were not overexpressed. In total, 25 out of 84 (29.8%) patients with CRPS-1 expressed a rare allele. The SNPs were rs41289586 inANO10, rs28360457 inP2RX7, rs1126930 inPRKAG1and rs80308281 inSLC12A9. Males were more likely than females to have a rare SNP allele, 8 out of 14 (57.1%) vs 17 out of 70 (24.3%) (Fisher’s p=0.023).ANO10,P2RX7,PRKAG1andSLC12A9were all expressed in macrophages from healthy human controls.

Conclusion

A single SNP in each of the genesANO10, P2RX7, PRKAG1andSLC12A9was associated with developing chronic CRPS-1, with more males than females expressing these rare alleles. Our work suggests the possibility that a permissive genetic background is an important factor in the development of CRPS-1.
Characteristics of naturally formed semitruck platoons on interstate highways and their implications for truck platooning field deployment
Authors: Hu Xiaoqiang , Peng Cheng , Bao Jieyi , Jiang Yi , Li Shuo
Published: October 2023

This paper presents an effort to address urgent issues associated with semitruck platooning. The weigh-in-motion data were first examined to determine the characteristics of naturally formed semitruck platoons. A safety-based two-vehicle platoon model was then utilized to determine the critical headways for assessing the safety of semitruck platooning in various driving scenarios. The possibilities for passenger vehicles to cut into semitruck platoons were assessed using actual vehicle headway data. Finally, the potential impacts of semitruck platooning on typical interstate highway pavements were assessed using finite element analysis. Most semitruck platoons consist of two to three vehicles. An optimal platoon gap of 0.94 s was identified for connected and automated semitruck platooning. The potential impacts of truck platooning on concrete pavement were negligible for a platoon gap greater than 0.2 s. The maximum possible impact was less than 4% in terms of the service life reduction for interstate asphalt pavement.
PRIMA-1 synergizes olaparib-induced cell death in p53 mutant triple negative human breast cancer cell line via restoring p53 function, arresting cell cycle, and inducing apoptosis
Authors: Zaza Mohamed , Rashed Mohammed H. , Elrefaey Hesham , Hassan Memy H. , Abo-Salem Osama M. , El-Sayed El-Sayed M.
Published: October 2023

This study concerned with assessing the effect of restoring p53 using PRIMA-1 on the anti-cancer activity of olaparib against TP53-mutant triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and exploring the optimum synergistic concentrations and the underlying mechanism. Human BC cell lines, MDA-MB-231 with mutated TP53 gene, and MCF-7 with wild-type TP53 gene were treated with olaparib and/or PRIMA-1. The IC50 value for olaparib was significantly decreased by PRIMA-1 in MDA-MB-231 cells compared to MCF-7 cells. Contrary to MCF-7 cells, co-treatment with olaparib and PRIMA-1 had a synergistic anti-proliferative effect in MDA-MB-231 at all tested concentrations with the best synergistic combination at 45 and 8.5 µM, respectively, and furthermore PRIMA-1 enhanced olaparib-induced apoptosis. This synergistic apoptotic effect was associated with a significant boost in mRNA expression of TP53 gene, cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase, modulation of BRCA-1, BAX and Bcl2 proteins expressions, and induction of active caspase-3. These results present a clue for the utility of combined olaparib and PRIMA-1 in treatment of TP53-mutant TNBC invitro. PRIMA-1 triggers olaparib-induced MDA-MB-231 cell death in a synergistic manner via restoring TP53, decreasing BRCA-1 expression, cell cycle arrest, and enhancement of apoptosis via p53/BAX/Bcl2/caspase 3 pathway.
A multi-realm perspective on applying potential tipping points to environmental decision-making
Authors: Harper Meagan , Rytwinski Trina , Creed Irena F. , Helmuth Brian , Smol John P. , Bennett Joseph R. , Hanna Dalal , Saravia Leonardo A. , Rocha Juan , Carrier-Belleau Charlotte , Foulk Aubrey , Martinez De La Riva Ana Hernández , Robichaud Courtney , Sallan Lauren , Sahdra Angeli , Cooke Steven J.
Published: October 2023

Ecosystems experiencing pressures are at risk of rapidly transitioning (“tipping”) from one state to another. Identifying and managing these so-called tipping points continue to be a challenge in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems, particularly when multiple potentially interacting drivers are present. Knowledge of tipping points, the mechanisms that cause them, and their implications for management practices are evolving, but often in isolation within specific ecological realms. Here, we summarize current knowledge of tipping points in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial realms and provide a multi-realm perspective of the challenges and opportunities for applying this knowledge to ecosystem management. We brought together conservation practitioners and global experts in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial tipping points and identified seven challenges that environmental policymakers and managers contend with including (1) predictability, (2) spatiotemporal scales, (3) interactions, (4) reversibility, (5) socio-ecological context, (6) complexity and heterogeneity, and (7) selecting appropriate action. We highlight opportunities for cross-scalar and cross-realm knowledge production and provide recommendations for enabling the management of tipping points. Although knowledge of tipping points is imperfect, we stress the need to continue working toward incorporating tipping points perspectives in environmental management across all realms.
Multiplicities of maximal weights of the sℓ̂(n)-module V (kΛ0)
Authors: Jayne Rebecca L. , Misra Kailash C.
Published: October 2023

Consider the affine Lie algebra [Formula: see text] with null root [Formula: see text], weight lattice [Formula: see text] and set of dominant weights [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] denote the integrable highest weight [Formula: see text]-module with level [Formula: see text] highest weight [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] denote the set of weights of [Formula: see text]. A weight [Formula: see text] is a maximal weight if [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] denote the set of maximal dominant weights which is known to be a finite set. The explicit description of the weights in the set [Formula: see text] is known [R. L. Jayne and K. C. Misra, On multiplicities of maximal dominant weights of [Formula: see text]-modules, Algebr. Represent. Theory 17 (2014) 1303–1321]. In papers [R. L. Jayne and K. C. Misra, Lattice paths, Young tableaux, and weight multiplicities, Ann. Comb. 22 (2018) 147–156; R. L. Jayne and K. C. Misra, Multiplicities of some maximal dominant weights of the [Formula: see text]-modules [Formula: see text], Algebr. Represent. Theory 25 (2022) 477–490], the multiplicities of certain subsets of [Formula: see text] were given in terms of some pattern-avoiding permutations using the associated crystal base theory. In this paper the multiplicity of all the maximal dominant weights of the [Formula: see text]-module [Formula: see text] are given generalizing the results in [R. L. Jayne and K. C. Misra, Lattice paths, Young tableaux, and weight multiplicities, Ann. Comb. 22 (2018) 147–156; R. L. Jayne and K. C. Misra, Multiplicities of some maximal dominant weights of the [Formula: see text]-modules [Formula: see text], Algebr. Represent. Theory 25 (2022) 477–490].
Graded pseudo-almost valuation domains
Authors: Hamdi Haleh , Sahandi Parviz
Published: October 2023

Let [Formula: see text] be a nonzero commutative cancellative monoid (written additively), [Formula: see text] a [Formula: see text]-graded integral domain, and [Formula: see text] the saturated multiplicative set of nonzero homogeneous elements of [Formula: see text]. A homogeneous prime ideal [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is said to be a pseudo-strongly homogeneous prime ideal if for each homogeneous elements [Formula: see text] whenever [Formula: see text], then there exists a positive integer [Formula: see text], such that either [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text]. A graded integral domain [Formula: see text] is said to be a graded pseudo-almost valuation domain (gr-PAVD) if each homogeneous prime ideal of [Formula: see text] is a pseudo-strongly homogeneous prime ideal. We study the prime ideal- and ring-theoretic properties and overrings of gr-PAVDs. We also study the gr-PAVD property in pullback of graded domains and give various examples of these domains.
Classification of irreducible admissible modules for 𝒮-local vertex operator algebra V #H
Authors: Du Fang , Wang Hao
Published: October 2023

For an [Formula: see text]-local vertex operator algebra [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a simple vertex operator algebra, and [Formula: see text] is the group algebra of a finite subgroup of [Formula: see text], Frobenius reciprocity is investigated. We give an explicit construction and classification of admissible [Formula: see text]-modules in terms of admissible [Formula: see text]-modules. We also give a complete set of irreducible inequivalent admissible [Formula: see text]-modules.
Construction of All Multilayer Monolithic RSMTs and Its Application to Monolithic 3D IC Routing
Authors: Dewan Monzurul Islam , Lin Sheng-En David , Kim Dae Hyun
Published: October 2023

Monolithic three-dimensional (M3D) integration allows ultra-thin silicon tier stacking in a single package. The high-density stacking is acquiring interest and is becoming more popular for smaller footprint areas, shorter wirelength, higher performance, and lower power consumption than the conventional planar fabrication technologies. The physical design of M3D integrated circuits requires several design steps, such as three-dimensional (3D) placement, 3D clock-tree synthesis, 3D routing, and 3D optimization. Among these, 3D routing is significantly time consuming due to countless routing blockages. Therefore, 3D routers proposed in the literature insert monolithic interlayer vias (MIVs) and perform tier-by-tier routing in two substeps. In this article, we propose an algorithm to build a routing topology database (DB) used to construct all multilayer monolithic rectilinear Steiner minimum trees on the 3D Hanan grid. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the DB in various applications, we use the DB to construct timing-driven 3D routing topologies and perform congestion-aware global routing on 3D designs. We anticipate that the algorithm and the DB will help 3D routers reduce the runtime of the MIV insertion step and improve the quality of the 3D routing.
Surface, Structural, and Electrochemical Analysis of High-Voltage Spinel Cathode LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 Evolution Upon Ambient Storage Conditions
Authors: Liu Xuelian , Maffre Marion , Tie Da , Wagner Nils Peter , Félix Noelia Cortés , Azmi Raheleh , Stokes Killian , Vullum Per Erik , Bailly Jérome , Pal Shubhadeep , Evans Gary , Buga Mihaela , Hahlin Maria , Edström Kristina , Clark Simon , Vlad Alexandru
Published: October 2023

Spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 as one of the high-energy positive electrode materials for next generation Li-ion batteries has attracted significant interest due to its economic and environmental advantages. However, the sensitivity of this type of material upon short to long term ambient storage conditions and the impact on the electrochemical performances remains poorly explored. Nevertheless, this remains an important aspect for practical large-scale synthesis, storage and utilization. Herein, we study and compare the evolution of surface chemistry, bulk crystal structure and elemental content evolution and distribution of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 using a variety of characterization techniques including XPS and STEM-EDS-EELS, as well as electrochemical analysis. We show that Mn species dominate the outer surface (0–5 nm), while Ni and Li are preferentially located further away and in the bulk. The studied LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 material is found to be stable, with minor changes in surface or bulk characteristics detected, even after 12 months of storage under ambient air conditions. The low surface reactivity to air also accounts for the minor changes to the electrochemical performance of the air-exposed LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4, compared to the pristine material. This study provides guidance for the appropriate storage, handling and processing of this high-performance cathode material.
Enabling Smart Agriculture through Sensor-Integrated Microfluidic Chip to Monitor Nutrient Uptake in Plants
Authors: Kamat Vivek , Burton Lamar , Venkadesh Vagheeswari , Jayachandran Krish , Bhansali Shekhar
Published: October 2023

The soil microenvironment greatly influences a plant’s ability to absorb nutrients and germinate. Sensing these changes in soil medium is critical to understand plant nutrient requirements. Soil being dynamic represents changes in nutrient content, element mobility, texture, water-holding capacity, and microbiota which affects the nutrient levels. These minor changes affect the plant in early growth and development and studying these changes has always been challenging. Microfluidics provides a platform to study nutrient availability and exchange in small volumes of liquid or media resembling plant microenvironments. Here, we have developed a novel microfluidic chip-embedded molecular imprinted sensor for sensing nitrate and phosphate in the media. For data acquisition and recording we have implemented a potentiostat controlled via a microcontroller allowing data storage and transfer via a long-range radio module (LoRA). The microfluidic device’s functionality was validated by germination of the legume crimson red and recoding the nitrate and phosphate levels in media for 7 d. The MIP-based sensor measures nitrate and phosphate, in the range from 1 to 1000 mM. The accuracy of detection for nitrate and phosphate showed 99% and 95% respectively. The chip coupled with MIP based sensor for nutrient analysis serves as a platform technology for studying nitrate and phosphate nutrient exchange and interaction. This chip in the future can be implemented to study plant deficiencies, drought resistance, and plant immunity.
Factors Related to Nurses’ Professional Autonomy When Caring for Patients with COVID-19 in a University Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ganchuluun Sambuu , Kondo Akiko , Ukuda Megumi , Hirai Hiroki , Wen Jieru
Published: October 2023

Although individual factors play a vital role in determining professional autonomy, their specific impact during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has not been studied. This study aimed to compare nurses’ professional autonomy when caring for patients with COVID-19 and for other patients and explore factors related to autonomy when caring for these patients. A paper-based questionnaire survey was conducted from June to August 2022 among nurses working at a university hospital in Japan. The survey included demographic factors (10 items, including, age, section, years of nursing experience, position, educational background, ladder level, and having certified nurse specialists or certified nurse qualifications) and individual experience factors (4 items: number of COVID-19 patients experienced, frequency and contents of searching for the latest information about COVID-19, frequency of using scientific sources, and frequency of training/study sessions on COVID-19 attended at the hospital). Additionally, basic knowledge of COVID-19 was evaluated. The scale for nurses’ professional autonomy was developed based on a previous study. A paired t-test and stepwise multiple linear regression were used for the analyses. Overall, 241 nurses participated in the survey. The average length of nursing experience was 10.3 ± 9.2 years. The total scores for nurses’ professional autonomy in all 5 factors 27 items were significantly lower (t = −12.1,

p
<
0.001

) when caring for COVID-19 patients than when caring for other patients. Specifically, Factor 1 (Cognition) exhibited the most decreased scores when caring for COVID-19 patients than when caring for other patients. Factor 4 (Abstract judgment) differed the least between caring for COVID-19 and for other patients, but the average score was the lowest. More years of nursing experience (β = 0.208,

p
=
0.001

) and a higher number of patients with COVID-19 cared for (β = 0.140,

p
=
0.026

) were associated with higher autonomy scores. In conclusion, to enhance professional autonomy during an unprecedented pandemic, nurses must enhance cognition and abstract judgment. In the event of a future pandemic, nurses need to create an environment in which they routinely access and utilize the latest information and scientific evidence to provide high-quality nursing care based on their professional judgment and competence.
Some Inequalities Involving the Derivative of Rational Functions
Authors: Rasri Arnisa , Phanwan Jiraphorn Somsuwan
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we establish some inequalities involving the modulus of the derivative of rational functions with prescribed poles and restricted zeros. The obtained results generalize some known inequalities for rational functions. Moreover, our results also contain certain known polynomial inequalities.
An Overview of the Utilization of Common Waste as an Alternative Fuel in the Cement Industry
Authors: Tan Tee How , Mo Kim Hung , Lin Jiayi , Onn Chiu Chuen
Published: October 2023

As concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials, there is a massive production of cement, which causes cement manufacturing to be an energy-intensive industry. A significant amount of the cost of cement production, ranging from 20% to 25%, is attributed to thermal energy. In addition, the action of mining and burning fossil fuels results in the unfavorable emission of hazardous compounds into the environment. Therefore, the switch from conventional fossil fuels to alternative fuels (AFs) in the cement manufacturing business has attracted attention due to environmental and financial concerns. In this paper, four commonly used AFs are discussed, which are waste tires, municipal solid waste, meat and bone meal, and sewage sludge. It is found that each AF has a unique calorific value and properties, attributed to its source, treatment, and technology. Furthermore, the availability of AF is important as the amount varies depending on the location. In addition, their effects on gaseous emissions from the cement plant and the quality of clinker are found to be inconsistent. Thus, there will not be a single best type of AF option to be used in the cement industry. A good AF should be able to provide sufficient thermal energy while reducing the environmental impacts and costs. A careful analysis and multicriteria decision-making approach are always vital when employing AFs in order to prevent environmental problems, cost increases, as well as clinker quality degradation.
BiLSTM- and GNN-Based Spatiotemporal Traffic Flow Forecasting with Correlated Weather Data
Authors: Alourani Abdullah , Ashfaq Farzeen , Jhanjhi N. Z. , Ali Khan Navid
Published: October 2023

The timely and accurate forecasting of urban road traffic is crucial for smart city traffic management and control. It can assist both drivers and traffic controllers in selecting efficient routes and diverting traffic to less congested roads. However, estimating traffic volume while taking into account external factors such as weather and accidents is still a challenge. In this research, we propose a hybrid deep learning framework, double attention graph neural network BiLSTM (DAGNBL), that utilizes a graph neural network to represent spatial characteristics and bidirectional LSTM units to capture temporal dependencies between features. Attention modules are added to the GNN and BLSTM to find high-impact attention weight values for the chosen road section. Our model offers the best prediction accuracy with a mean absolute percentage error of 5.21% and a root mean squared error of 4. It can be utilized as a useful tool for predicting traffic flow on certain stretches of road.
Supplementary Data Table 9 from The Inherited KRAS-variant as a Biomarker of Cetuximab Response in NSCLC
Authors: Weidhaas Joanne B. , Hu Chen , Komaki Ritsuko , Masters Gregory A. , Blumenschein George R. , Chang Joe Y. , Lu Bo , Dicker Adam P. , Bogart Jeffrey A. , Garces Yolanda I. , Narayan Samir , Robinson Clifford G. , Kavadi Vivek S. , Greenberger Joel S. , Koprowski Christopher D. , Welsh James , Gore Elizabeth M. , MacRae Robert M. , Paulus Rebecca , Bradley Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2023

Overall Survival for non-variant and KRAS-Variant Patients by RT Level Assignment
Supplementary Data Table 8 from The Inherited KRAS-variant as a Biomarker of Cetuximab Response in NSCLC
Authors: Weidhaas Joanne B. , Hu Chen , Komaki Ritsuko , Masters Gregory A. , Blumenschein George R. , Chang Joe Y. , Lu Bo , Dicker Adam P. , Bogart Jeffrey A. , Garces Yolanda I. , Narayan Samir , Robinson Clifford G. , Kavadi Vivek S. , Greenberger Joel S. , Koprowski Christopher D. , Welsh James , Gore Elizabeth M. , MacRae Robert M. , Paulus Rebecca , Bradley Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2023

Overall Survival
Supplementary Data Table 7 from The Inherited KRAS-variant as a Biomarker of Cetuximab Response in NSCLC
Authors: Weidhaas Joanne B. , Hu Chen , Komaki Ritsuko , Masters Gregory A. , Blumenschein George R. , Chang Joe Y. , Lu Bo , Dicker Adam P. , Bogart Jeffrey A. , Garces Yolanda I. , Narayan Samir , Robinson Clifford G. , Kavadi Vivek S. , Greenberger Joel S. , Koprowski Christopher D. , Welsh James , Gore Elizabeth M. , MacRae Robert M. , Paulus Rebecca , Bradley Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2023

Pretreatment Characteristics by KRAS-variant or non-variant status
Supplementary Data Table 12 from The Inherited KRAS-variant as a Biomarker of Cetuximab Response in NSCLC
Authors: Weidhaas Joanne B. , Hu Chen , Komaki Ritsuko , Masters Gregory A. , Blumenschein George R. , Chang Joe Y. , Lu Bo , Dicker Adam P. , Bogart Jeffrey A. , Garces Yolanda I. , Narayan Samir , Robinson Clifford G. , Kavadi Vivek S. , Greenberger Joel S. , Koprowski Christopher D. , Welsh James , Gore Elizabeth M. , MacRae Robert M. , Paulus Rebecca , Bradley Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2023

Worst Treatment-Related Toxicity By KRAS Genotype
Supplementary Data Table 1 from The Inherited KRAS-variant as a Biomarker of Cetuximab Response in NSCLC
Authors: Weidhaas Joanne B. , Hu Chen , Komaki Ritsuko , Masters Gregory A. , Blumenschein George R. , Chang Joe Y. , Lu Bo , Dicker Adam P. , Bogart Jeffrey A. , Garces Yolanda I. , Narayan Samir , Robinson Clifford G. , Kavadi Vivek S. , Greenberger Joel S. , Koprowski Christopher D. , Welsh James , Gore Elizabeth M. , MacRae Robert M. , Paulus Rebecca , Bradley Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2023

Endpoints evaluated in RTOG 0617
Utilizing Reduced Labeled Proton Clearance to Identify Preclinical Alzheimer Disease with 3D ASL MRI
Authors: Joseph Charles R. , Kreilach Alec , Reyna Victoria Ashley , Kepler Thomas Ashton , Taylor Brittany Viola , Kang Jubin , McCorkle Dallas , Rider Nicholas L.
Published: October 2023

Addressing the seminal pathophysiology in Alzheimer disease (AD) is the next logical focus for effective intervention, given the initial disappointing and more recent possibly encouraging results of monoclonal antibody trials. Endothelial cell dysfunction-induced blood-brain barrier leak with associated prolonged capillary mean transit time (cMTT) and glymphatic outflow dysfunction is the most proximal events in the degeneration cascade. Sensitive and reproducible markers are required to both identify early disease and assess future treatment trial outcomes. Two participants, with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and one with AD, were evaluated clinically prior to MRI in this small case series report. From seven 3D turbo gradient and spin echo (TGSE) pulsed arterial spin echo (PASL) MRI sequences six homologous region of interest in bitemporal, bifrontal, and biparietal lobes for each sequence were examined and plotted against time. By choosing late perfusion times during cMTT phase of perfusion linear analysis of signal decay could be utilized. A reference axial FLAIR sequence was also obtained. Slope of the linear analysis correlated to the rate of labeled proton clearance with reduced clearance occurring in AD participants compared to normal participants in our previous study. Whether similar differences in clearance rate extend to either MCI or early AD was investigated. Participants were categorized by clinical phenotype before MRI and compared to previously published phenotype cohorts: n = 18 normal/healthy, n = 6 AD, n = 3 MCI. Significant differences in labeled proton clearance rates between AD and MCI/control phenotypes within bilateral temporal lobes (left p = 0.004, right p = 0.002) and within bilateral frontal lobes AD versus controls (left p = 0.001, right p = 0.008) and AD versus MCI (left p = 0.001, right p = 0.001) were found. This noninvasive MRI technique has potential for identifying MCI transition to AD.
Trichoscopic Patterns and Confocal Microscopy Features of Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia
Authors: Annunziata Maria Carmela , Tosti Antonella , Fattore Davide , Potestio Luca , Maddy Austin John , Fabbrocini Gabriella
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) can seriously affect the quality of life of cancer patients. Trichoscopic patterns and confocal microscopy (RCM) features of CIA have been scarcely studied. This study aimed to investigate the dermoscopic and RCM features of CIA in 19 females and 5 males, with CIA due to current or recent chemotherapy. Methods: Patients with CIA and current or recent (within 2 months) history of chemotherapy treatment were enrolled. After clinical examination, standard pictures were taken by digital camera (SLR Canon PowerShot G10) and trichoscopic images were captured by the Handyscope device (20x). Images of RCM were acquired by VivaScope 3000 with the VivaStack option. The trichoscopic and confocal images were acquired by three independent observers after central parting on three areas: vertex, middle, and frontal scalp. Results: A total of 24 patients were enrolled. CIA has features of anagen effluvium at trichoscopy but with low frequency of yellow dots and prominence of black dots. The simultaneous presence of pseudo-monilethrix and black dots at trichoscopy confirms the hypothesis that chemotherapy insults the hair follicle intermittently. At RCM, the presence of abnormal hair shaft morphology highlights that the insults affect hair shaft production. Conclusion: These are the first data in this field, so further studies with a higher number of patients analyzed are needed to confirm these findings.
Urinary Incontinence, Quality of Life, and Risk Factors in a Geriatric Cohort
Authors: Eredics Klaus , Wehrberger Clemens , Edlinger Leo , Müller Ulrik , Rauchenwald Michael , Wehrberger Marlies , Madersbacher Stephan
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) and its subtypes, associated clinical factors, and impact on quality of life (QoL) in a geriatric population aged 80 years or older. Methods: Male and female residents (inclusion criterion: 80 years or older) of three Viennese senior citizen homes were personally interviewed with the aid of a structured questionnaire based on the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Questionnaire within a 12-month period. UI was defined as any involuntary loss of urine during the past 4 weeks. Several demographic parameters were obtained additionally. Results: 434 participants with a mean age of 86.8 years (women: 87.6 years; men: 86.1 years) were included. UI was present in 52.5% (57% female vs. 23% male, p < 0.001), stress UI affected 36% (41% female vs. 5% male, p < 0.001), urge UI 38% (40.5% female vs. 23% male, p < 0.01), and mixed UI 28% (24% female vs. 5.0% male, p < 0.01). While the overall prevalence of UI remained rather stable in the four age cohorts (80–84 years, 85–89 years, 90–94 years, >94 years), there was a constant decline of SUI paralleled by an increase of UI and – to a lesser extent – of MUI with age. 36.5% (33% female vs. 57% male) participants did not report any negative impact on QoL, while a severe reduction of QoL was present in 31% of cases (35% female vs. 10.0% male). Risk factors for UI and its subtypes included female sex, reduced/no mobility, hysterectomy, and number of births. Conclusion: This study provides data on the high prevalence of UI in a low-morbid geriatric cohort and evaluates gender-specific differences in UI prevalence, associated risk factors, and QoL.
Schaaf-Yang Syndrome: Clinical Phenotype and Effects of 4 years of Growth Hormone Treatment
Authors: Juriaans Alicia F. , Kerkhof Gerthe F. , Garrelfs Mark , Trueba-Timmermans Demi , Hokken-Koelega Anita C.S.
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Schaaf-Yang syndrome (SYS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by truncating mutations of the MAGEL2 gene, located in the Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) region. PWS and SYS have phenotypic overlap. Patients with SYS are often treated with growth hormone (GH), but evidence for the effectiveness of the treatment in patients with SYS is limited. Methods: This study describes 7 children with SYS. We studied their phenotype, genotype, and the effect of GH treatment on height and body mass index (BMI) during 4 years and on body composition during 1 year. Results: All patients had a normal birth weight. Most patients had hypotonia and feeding difficulties after birth (86%). Full-scale IQ ranged from <50 to 92. All patients above the age of 2 years had psycho-behavioral problems. There were no apparent correlations between the phenotype and the location of the defect in the MAGEL2 gene. Mean (95% CI) height SDS increased significantly from −1.74 (−3.55; 0.07) at start to −0.05 (−1.87; 1.77) after 4 years of GH treatment. Mean (95% CI) BMI SDS decreased significantly from 2.01 (1.02; 3.00) to 1.22 (0.18; 2.26) after 6 months and remained the same during the rest of the follow-up. Fat mass percentage SDS decreased and lean body mass did not change during 1 year of treatment in 3 patients. Conclusion: Patients presented with a phenotype of hypotonia, respiratory insufficiency, and feeding difficulties after birth, endocrine disorders, intellectual disability, and behavioral problems. Treatment with GH significantly improved height SDS and BMI over the course of 4 years.
Peritoneal and Urinary Sodium Removal in Refractory Congestive Heart Failure Patients Included in an Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Program: Valuable for Monitoring the Course of the Disease
Authors: Miñana Gema , González-Rico Miguel , de la Espriella Rafael , González-Sánchez Daniel , Montomoli Marco , Núñez Eduardo , Fernández-Cisnal Agustín , Villar Sandra , Górriz Jose Luis , Núñez Julio
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Spot urinary sodium emerged as a useful parameter for assessing decongestion in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). Growing evidence endorses the therapeutic role of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) in patients with refractory CHF and kidney disease. We aimed to examine the long-term trajectory of urinary, peritoneal, and total (urinary plus peritoneal) sodium removal in a cohort of patients with refractory CHF enrolled in a CAPD program. Additionally, we explored whether sodium removal was associated with the risk of long-term mortality and episodes of worsening heart failure (WHF). Methods: We included 66 ambulatory patients with refractory CHF enrolled in a CAPD program in a single teaching center. 24-h peritoneal, urinary, and total sodium elimination were analyzed at baseline and after CAPD initiation. Its trajectories over time were calculated using joint modeling of longitudinal and survival data. Within the framework of joint frailty models for recurrent and terminal events, we estimated its prognostic effect on recurrent episodes of WHF. Results: At the time of enrollment, the mean age and estimated glomerular filtration rate were 72.8 ± 8.4 years and 28.5 ± 14.3 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively. The median urinary sodium at baseline was 2.34 g/day (1.40–3.55). At a median (p25%–p75%) follow-up of 2.93 (1.93–3.72) years, we registered 0.28 deaths and 0.24 episodes of WHF per 1 person-year. Compared to baseline (urinary), CAPD led to increased sodium excretion (urinary plus dialyzed) since the first follow-up visit (p < 0.001). Over the follow-up, repeated measurements of total sodium removal were associated with a lower risk of death and episodes of WHF. Conclusions: CAPD increased sodium removal in patients with refractory CHF. Elevated sodium removal identified those patients with a lower risk of death and episodes of WHF.
A Retrospective Analysis of 83 Patients with Testicular Mass Who Underwent Testis-Sparing Surgery: The Eurasian Uro-oncology Association Multicenter Study
Authors: Keske Murat , Canda Abdullah Erdem , Karadag Mert Ali , Çiftçi Halil , Erturhan Sakip , Kactan Cagri , Soytas Mustafa , Özkaya Fatih , Ozbey Isa , Ordek Eser , Atmaca Ali Fuat , Yildirim Asif , Sahin Selcuk , colakoglu yunus , Boylu Ugur , Erol Bulent , Caskurlu Turhan , Kiremit Murat Can , Cakici Ozer Ural , Sonmez Gokhan , Kılıçarslan Hakan , Akbulut Ziya , Kaygısız Onur , Bedir Selahattin , Vuruskan Hakan , Bozkurt Yunus Erol , Aydin Hasan Riza , Oguz Ural , Basok Erem Kaan , Gumus Bilal Habes , Tuncel Altug , Aslan Yilmaz , Hamidi Nurullah , Müslümanoğlu Ahmet Yaser , Dinçer Murat , Balbay Derya , Albayrak Selami , Laguna Maria Pilar
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Herein, we analyzed the histopathological, oncological and functional outcomes of testis-sparing surgery (TSS) in patients with distinct risk for testicular cancer. Methods: This is a multicenter retrospective study on consecutive patients who underwent TSS. Patients were categorized in high- or low-risk testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) according to the presence/absence of features compatible with testicular dysgenesis syndrome. Histology was categorized per size and risk groups. Results: TSS was performed in 83 patients (86 tumors) of them, 27 in the high-risk group. Fifty-nine patients had a non-tumoral contralateral testis present. Sixty masses and 26 masses were benign and TGCTs, respectively. No statistical differences were observed in mean age (30.9 ± 10.32 years), pathological tumor size (14.67 ± 6.7 mm) between risk groups or between benign and malignant tumors (p = 0.608). When categorized per risk groups, 22 (73.3%) and 4 (7.1%) of the TSS specimens were malignant in the high- and low-risk patient groups, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that the only independent variable significantly related to malignant outcome was previous history of TGCT. During a mean follow-up of 25.5 ± 22.7 months, no patient developed systemic disease. Local recurrence was detected in 5 patients and received radical orchiectomy. Postoperative testosterone levels remained normal in 88% of those patients with normal preoperative level. No erectile dysfunction was reported in patients with benign lesions. Conclusion: TSS is a safe and feasible approach with adequate cancer control, and preservation of sexual function is possible in 2/3 of patients harboring malignancy. Incidence of TGCT varies extremely between patients at high and low risk for TGCT requiring a careful consideration and counseling.