bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling snowpack bulk density using snow depth, cumulative degree‐days, and climatological predictor variables
Authors: Szeitz Andras J. , Moore R. Dan
Published: December 2022

Snowpack water equivalent (SWE) is a key variable for water resource management in snow‐dominated catchments. While it is not feasible to quantify SWE at the catchment scale using either field surveys or remotely sensed data, technologies such as airborne LiDAR (light detection and ranging) support the mapping of snow depth at scales relevant to operational water management. To convert snow depth to water equivalent, models have been developed to predict SWE or snowpack density based on snow depth and additional predictor variables. This study builds upon previous models that relate snowpack density to snow depth by including additional predictor variables to account for (1) long‐term climatologies that describe the prevailing conditions influencing regional snowpack properties, and (2) the effect of intra‐ and inter‐year variability in meteorological conditions on densification through a cumulative degree‐day index derived from North American Regional Reanalysis products. A non‐linear model was fit to 114 506 snow survey measurements spanning 41 years from 1166 snow courses across western North America. Under spatial cross‐validation, the predicted densities had a root‐mean‐square error of 47.1 kg m−3, a mean bias of −0.039 kg m−3, and a Nash‐Sutcliffe Efficiency of 0.70. The model developed in this study had similar overall performance compared to a similar regression‐based model reported in the literature, but had reduced seasonal biases. When applied to predict SWE from simulated depths with random errors consistent with those obtained from LiDAR or Structure‐from‐Motion, 50% of the SWE estimates for April and May fell within −45 to 49 mm of the observed SWE, representing prediction errors of −15% to 20%.
Functional recovery of myocardial infarction by specific EBP‐PR1P peptides bridging injectable cardiac extracellular matrix and vascular endothelial growth factor
Authors: Cao Wenxuan , Zhang Hong , Zhou Ning , Zhou Runxue , Zhang Xiaojing , Yin Jia , Deng Jin , Ao Xiang , Shi Chunying
Published: December 2022

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the most potent angiogenic factor and plays an important role in therapy of myocardial infarction (MI). Currently, how to retain regional concentration and decrease rapid diffusion is critical for its clinical application of VEGF. In recent years, the application of targeting peptides has been developed rapidly and provides new strategies for the sustained release of VEGF. In present study, a bi‐functional EBP‐PR1P peptide was designed and bridged VEGF to injectable cardiac extracellular matrix (c‐ECM). Through EBP‐PR1P peptides, VEGF could specifically bind with c‐ECM to realize the sustained release, without impacting the bioactivity of VEGF. Then VEGF/EBP‐PR1P/c‐ECM scaffolds were constructed and administrated into rats with MI. The results showed VEGF/EBP‐PR1P/c‐ECM could promote angiogenesis, protect cardiomyocytes survival against apoptosis, and improve the recovery of cardiac function. In addition, the mechanism of EBP‐PR1P/VEGF was also investigated which canonical downstream of VEGF‐Akt signaling pathway was activated. These results showed specific VEGF/EBP‐PR1P/c‐ECM scaffolds served as promising delivery system for VEGF that facilitated the functional recovery of MI.
Interaction energy of Cl2 and Br2 with H2O: Exchange, dispersion and density the crucial ingredients
Authors: Morera‐Boado Cercis , Bernal‐Uruchurtu Margarita I.
Published: December 2022

Modern Density Functional Theory models are now suitable for many molecular and condensed phase studies. The study of noncovalent interactions, a well‐known drawback, is no longer an insurmountable obstacle through design and empirical corrections. However, using empirical corrections as in the DFT‐D methods might not be an all‐in‐one solution. This work uses a simple system, X2‐H2O with X = Cl or Br, with two different interactions, halogen‐bonded (XB) and hydrogen‐halogen (HX), to investigate the capability of current density functional approximations (DFA) in predicting interaction energies with eight different exchange‐correlation functionals. SAPT(DFT) provides, for all the studied cases, better predictions than the widely used supermolecular approach. In addition, the components of the interaction energy suggest where some of the shortcomings originate in each DFA. The analysis of the functionals used confirms that PBE0 and ω‐B97X‐D have a physically correct behavior. Using SAPT(DFT) and PBE0, and ω‐B97X‐D, we obtained the interaction energy of Cl2 and Br2 inside different clathrate cages and satisfactorily compared with wavefunction results; hence, the lower and upper limits of this value are defined: Cl2@512, −5.3 ± 0.3 kcal/mol; Cl2@51262, −5.5 ± 0.1 kcal/mol; Br2@51262, −7.6 ± 1.0 kcal/mol; Br2@51263, −10.6 ± 1.0 kcal/mol; Br2@51264, −10.9 ± 0.8 kcal/mol.
Clinical value of serum AFP and PIVKA‐II for diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tian Shan , Chen Yongyi , Zhang Yimin , Xu Xiaohong
Published: December 2022

Background

The accuracy of alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) as a diagnostic marker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is insufficient, and the application of abnormal prothrombin (PIVKA‐II) in HCC is still controversial.

Methods

Serum AFP and PIVKA‐II levels were analyzed in 145 cases of HCC, 57 of benign liver disease, 55 of cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder carcinoma, 112 of other gastrointestinal tumors with liver metastasis, and 101 healthy controls. Receiver operating characteristic curve and area under the curve were used to evaluate the diagnostic value of AFP and PIVKA‐II for HCC. The changes in serum AFP and PIVKA‐II levels before and after treatment in 47 HCC patients who underwent surgery and 77 who received interventional treatment were used to evaluate treatment efficacy and prognosis in HCC.

Results

The concentrations of AFP and PIVKA‐II in the HCC group were significantly higher than those in other groups (p < 0.01). The diagnostic value of PIVKA‐II in HCC was better than that of AFP, and combined detection improved the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity. The levels of AFP and PIVKA‐II after liver cancer surgery were significantly lower than those before surgery. Elevated levels of PIVKA‐II before surgery predicted disease progression, and patients who remained positive for PIVKA‐II after surgery had worse prognosis than those who became negative after surgery.

Conclusions

Combined detection of AFP and PIVKA‐II is superior to both tests alone. We found that higher serum level of PIVKA‐II indicates more severe HCC, with worse prognosis, while the level of AFP had no correlation with the prognosis.
Multifaceted functions of RPS27a: An unconventional ribosomal protein
Authors: Luo Jingshun , Zhao Hong , Chen Linxi , Liu Meiqing
Published: December 2022

The ribosomal protein S27a (RPS27a) is cleaved from the fusion protein ubiquitin–RPS27a (Ub–RPS27a). Generally, Ub and RPS27a are coexpressed as a fusion protein but function independently after Ub is cleaved from RPS27a by a deubiquitinating enzyme. As an RP, RPS27a assembles into ribosomes, but it also functions independently of ribosomes. RPS27a is involved in the development and poor prognosis of various cancers, such as colorectal cancer, liver cancer, chronic myeloid leukemia, and renal carcinoma, and is associated with poor prognosis. Notably, the murine double minute 2/P53 axis is a major pathway through which RPS27a regulates cancer development. Moreover, RPS27a maintains sperm motility, regulates winged aphid indirect flight muscle degeneration, and facilitates plant growth. Additionally, RPS27a is a metalloprotein and mercury (Hg) biomarker. In the present review, we described the origin, structure, and biological functions of RPS27a.
Peripheral blood cells of native pig (Zovawk) of Mizoram, India: Light and scanning electron microscopy analysis
Authors: Choudhary Om Prakash , Sarkar Rupan , Madkour Fatma A. , Kalita Pranab Chandra , Doley Probal Jyoti , Kalita Arup , Choudhary Priyanka , Eregowda Chethan Gollahalli
Published: December 2022

The literature on the blood cells of Zovawk pigs is scanty; thus, this study was designed to elaborate the light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characterization of blood cells of Zovawk pigs by LM and SEM. Twelve different blood samples were aseptically obtained from adult healthy Zovawk pigs, irrespective of sex. To determine the cytomorphological and cytochemical structures of the many produced constituents of blood, blood smears were stained with various stains. The blood samples were treated with various substrates for cytoenzymatic research, and the alterations were noted. A 1000× magnification Olympus Trinocular Research microscope was used to examine the smears. The blood samples were prepared for electron microscopy according to the standard procedure. The prepared samples were delivered to the Sophisticated Analytical Instrumentation Facility (SAIF), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, for SEM imaging. On LM, pig erythrocytes were spherical and nonnucleated. The cytoplasm of the neutrophils was spherical and included cytoplasmic granules. The eosinophils had prominent cytoplasmic granules and were round. Basophils were infrequently present and had cytoplasmic granules that were clear blue. The sizes of small, medium and large lymphocytes were noted. The monocytes were oval or circular. The platelets ranged in form from asymmetric to round. The blood samples were stained for cytochemical analyses using acid ferrocyanide stain for iron, Sudan black blue stain for lipids, toluidine blue stain for mucopolysaccharides, and periodic acid Schiff's stain for glycogen. The cytoenzymatic characteristics were evaluated and compared with substrates treated with acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, peroxidase, arylsulfatase, cytochrome oxidase, beta‐glucuronidase, and succinate dehydrogenase. Erythrocytes appeared as biconcave disks under SEM. Two forms of leukocytes were observed, having a rough and pointed cell surface like a flower. It can be concluded that the LM and SEM morphology of blood cells of Zovawk pigs resembled other domestic animals, however, few differences were observed among the discussed animals.
Severity of acute pancreatitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in the era of biologics: A propensity‐score‐matched analysis using a nationwide database in Japan
Authors: Moroi Rintaro , Tarasawa Kunio , Ikeda Mio , Matsumoto Ryotaro , Shimoyama Yusuke , Naito Takeo , Takikawa Tetsuya , Shiga Hisashi , Hamada Shin , Kakuta Yoichi , Kikuta Kazuhiro , Fushimi Kiyohide , Fujimori Kenji , Kinouchi Yoshitaka , Masamune Atsushi
Published: December 2022

Background and Aim

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a rare extraintestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Several studies from Western countries have reported that the severity of AP in patients with IBD is similar to that in the general population; however, its severity in patients from Eastern countries in the era of biologics remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the severity of AP in patients with IBD and the effect of biologics on the severity of AP using a nationwide database.

Methods

We divided 1138 eligible AP admissions from the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database system into IBD and non‐IBD groups after propensity score matching, and compared the severity of AP. We divided the IBD group into ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) subgroups and compared each with the non‐IBD group. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the clinical factors affecting acute pancreatitis.

Results

IBD and UC groups had lower rate of severe AP compared to the non‐IBD group (13.7% vs 28.3%, P < 0.0001 and 11.0% vs 28.3%, P < 0.0001, respectively). There were no differences in the rates of severe AP between the CD and non‐IBD groups. Multivariate analysis showed that biologics did not affect the severity of AP.

Conclusion

The severity of AP in patients with IBD may be lower than that in the general population; biologics for IBD may not worsen its severity. Further prospective studies are required to clarify the severity of AP in patients with IBD.
Distinguishing threshold of graphs
Authors: Shekarriz Mohammad H. , Ahmadi Bahman , Talebpour S. A. , Shirdareh Haghighi M. H.
Published: December 2022

A vertex coloring of a graph is called distinguishing if no nonidentity automorphisms of can preserve it. The distinguishing number of , denoted by , is the minimum number of colors required for such a coloring, and the distinguishing threshold of , denoted by , is the minimum number such that every ‐coloring of is distinguishing. As an alternative definition, is one more than the maximum number of cycles in the cycle decomposition of automorphisms of . In this paper, we characterize when is disconnected. Afterwards, we prove that, although for every positive integer there are infinitely many graphs whose distinguishing thresholds are equal to , we have if and only if . Moreover, we show that if , then either is isomorphic to one of the four graphs on three vertices or it is of order , where is a prime number. Furthermore, we prove that if and only if is asymmetric, or . Finally, we consider all generalized Johnson graphs, , which are the graphs on all ‐subsets of where two vertices and are adjacent if . After studying their automorphism groups and distinguishing numbers, we calculate their distinguishing thresholds as , unless and in which case we have .
Classification of Major Depressive Disorder Based on Integrated Temporal and Spatial Functional MRI Variability Features of Dynamic Brain Network
Authors: Gai Qun , Chu Tongpeng , Che Kaili , Li Yuna , Dong Fanghui , Zhang Haicheng , Li Qinghe , Ma Heng , Shi Yinghong , Zhao Feng , Liu Jing , Mao Ning , Xie Haizhu
Published: December 2022

Background

Characterization of the dynamics of functional brain network has gained increased attention in the study of depression. However, most studies have focused on single temporal dimension, while ignoring spatial dimensional information, hampering the discovery of validated biomarkers for depression.

Purpose

To integrate temporal and spatial functional MRI variability features of dynamic brain network in machine‐learning techniques to distinguish patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) from healthy controls (HCs).

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

A discovery cohort including 119 patients and 106 HCs and an external validation cohort including 126 patients and 124 HCs from Rest‐meta‐MDD consortium.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3.0 T/resting‐state functional MRI using the gradient echo sequence.

Assessment

A random forest (RF) model integrating temporal and spatial variability features of dynamic brain networks with separate feature selection method (MSFS) was implemented for MDD classification. Its performance was compared with three RF models that used: temporal variability features (MTVF), spatial variability features (MSVF), and integrated temporal and spatial variability features with hybrid feature selection method (MHFS). A linear regression model based on MSFS was further established to assess MDD symptom severity, with prediction performance evaluated by the correlations between true and predicted scores.

Statistical Tests

Receiver operating characteristic analyses with the area under the curve (AUC) were used to evaluate models' performance. Pearson's correlation was used to assess relationship of predicted scores and true scores. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The model with MSFS achieved the best performance, with AUCs of 0.946 and 0.834 in the discovery and validation cohort, respectively. Additionally, altered temporal and spatial variability could significantly predict the severity of depression (r = 0.640) and anxiety (r = 0.616) in MDD.

Data Conclusion

Integration of temporal and spatial variability features provides potential assistance for clinical diagnosis and symptom prediction of MDD.

Evidence Level

2.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Surveillance for SARS‐CoV‐2 and its variants in wastewater of tertiary care hospitals correlates with increasing case burden and outbreaks
Authors: Acosta Nicole , Bautista Maria A. , Waddell Barbara J. , Du Kristine , McCalder Janine , Pradhan Puja , Sedaghat Navid , Papparis Chloe , Beaudet Alexander Buchner , Chen Jianwei , Van Doorn Jennifer , Xiang Kevin , Chan Leslie , Vivas Laura , Low Kashtin , Lu Xuewen , Lee Jangwoo , Westlund Paul , Chekouo Thierry , Dai Xiaotian , Cabaj Jason , Bhatnagar Srijak , Ruecker Norma , Achari Gopal , Clark Rhonda G. , Pearce Craig , Harrison Joe J. , Meddings Jon , Leal Jenine , Ellison Jennifer , Missaghi Bayan , Kanji Jamil N. , Larios Oscar , Rennert‐May Elissa , Kim Joseph , Hrudey Steve E. , Lee Bonita E. , Pang Xiaoli , Frankowski Kevin , Conly John , Hubert Casey R. J. , Parkins Michael D.
Published: December 2022

Wastewater‐based SARS‐CoV‐2 surveillance enables unbiased and comprehensive monitoring of defined sewersheds. We performed real‐time monitoring of hospital wastewater that differentiated Delta and Omicron variants within total SARS‐CoV‐2‐RNA, enabling correlation to COVID‐19 cases from three tertiary‐care facilities with >2100 inpatient beds in Calgary, Canada. RNA was extracted from hospital wastewater between August/2021 and January/2022, and SARS‐CoV‐2 quantified using RT‐qPCR. Assays targeting R203M and R203K/G204R established the proportional abundance of Delta and Omicron, respectively. Total and variant‐specific SARS‐CoV‐2 in wastewater was compared to data for variant specific COVID‐19 hospitalizations, hospital‐acquired infections, and outbreaks. Ninety‐six percent (188/196) of wastewater samples were SARS‐CoV‐2 positive. Total SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA levels in wastewater increased in tandem with total prevalent cases (Delta plus Omicron). Variant‐specific assessments showed this increase to be mainly driven by Omicron. Hospital‐acquired cases of COVID‐19 were associated with large spikes in wastewater SARS‐CoV‐2 and levels were significantly increased during outbreaks relative to nonoutbreak periods for total SARS‐CoV2, Delta and Omicron. SARS‐CoV‐2 in hospital wastewater was significantly higher during the Omicron‐wave irrespective of outbreaks. Wastewater‐based monitoring of SARS‐CoV‐2 and its variants represents a novel tool for passive COVID‐19 infection surveillance, case identification, containment, and potentially to mitigate viral spread in hospitals.
Peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 deficiency protects against subretinal fibrosis by inhibiting Müller glial hypercitrullination
Authors: Palko Sarah I. , Saba Nicholas J. , Bargagna‐Mohan Paola , Mohan Royce
Published: December 2022

Retinal scarring with vision loss continues to be an enigma in individuals with advanced age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Müller glial cells are believed to initiate and perpetuate scarring in retinal degeneration as these glial cells participate in reactive gliosis and undergo hypertrophy. We previously showed in the murine laser‐induced model of choroidal neovascularization that models wet‐AMD that glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression, an early marker of reactive gliosis, increases along with its posttranslational modification citrullination. This was related to increased co‐expression of the citrullination enzyme peptidyl arginine deiminase‐4 (PAD4), which also colocalizes to GFAP filaments. However, whether such hypercitrullination in Müller glial drives fibrotic pathology has remained understudied. Here, using male and female C57Bl6 mice subjected to laser injury, we investigated in a temporal study how citrullination impacts GFAP and PAD4 dynamics. We found that high molecular weight citrullinated species that accumulate in Müller glia corresponded with dynamic changes in GFAP and PAD4 showing their temporal redistribution from polymeric cytoskeletal to soluble protein fractions using immunostaining and western blot analysis. In conditional glial‐specific PAD4 knockout (PAD4cKO) mice subjected to laser injury, there was a stark reduction of citrullination and of polymerized GFAP filaments. These injured PAD4cKO retinas showed improved lesion healing, as well as reduced fibronectin deposition in the subretinal space at 30 days. Taken together, these findings reveal that pathologically overexpressed PAD4 in reactive Müller glia governs GFAP filament dynamics and alters their stability, suggesting chronic PAD4‐driven hypercitrullination may be a target for retinal fibrosis.
Superb Microvascular Imaging for the Differentiation of Benign and Malignant Breast Lesions: A System Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Chen Si‐han , Xiang Xiao‐zhen , Che Peng‐fei , Hu Bing , Shui Dian‐ya , Zhao Yun , Wang Li
Published: December 2022

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of SMI in the diagnosis of benign and malignant breast lesions.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, OVID, SCI, and SCOPUS was performed to find relevant studies which applied SMI to differentiate benign and malignant breast lesions. All the studies were published before October 10, 2022. Only studies published in English were collected. Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies‐2 (QUADAS‐2) tool was applied to assess the quality of the included studies. Summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) modeling was also performed to the diagnostic performance of SMI in the diagnosis of benign and malignant breast lesions. Subgroup analyses and meta‐regression were performed to find out the heterogeneity.

Results

Twenty studies which include a total of 2873 lesions (1748 benign and 1125 malignant) in 2740 patients were evaluated in this meta‐analysis. The summary sensitivity and specificity were 0.82 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76–0.86), 0.70 (95% CI: 0.64–0.76) for SMI vascular degree, 0.77 (95% CI: 0.67–0.84), 0.79 (95% CI: 0.75–0.83) for SMI vascular distribution, 0.78 (95% CI: 0.70–0.84), 0.75 (95% CI: 0.69–0.80) for SMI vascular morphology, 0.81 (95% CI: 0.72–0.87), 0.80 (95% CI: 0.75–0.85) SMI penetration vessel. For SMI overall vascular features, the summary sensitivity and summary specificity were 0.74 (95% CI: 0.61–0.84) and 0.80 (95% CI: 0.76–0.84). The result of subgroup analysis and meta‐analysis showed malignant rate and country might be the cause of heterogeneity of diagnostic accuracy of vascular grade and morphology.

Conclusion

SMI vascular features have high sensitivity and specificity in the differentiation of benign and malignant lesions. Future international multicenter studies in various regions with large sample size are required to confirm these findings.
Pediatric Bilateral Vocal Cord Immobility: New Treatment With Preservation of Voice
Authors: Trozzi Marilena , Torsello Miriam , Meucci Duino , Micardi Mariella , Tropiano Maria L. , Balduzzi Sara , Ossandon Avetikian Alejandra , Salvati Antonio , Bottero Sergio
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Pediatric bilateral vocal cord immobility (BVCI) represents a severe life‐threatening condition that often causes severe dyspnea. Endoscopic arytenoid lateral abduction (EALA) is a relatively new, secure, minimal‐invasive surgical technique. The present prospective observational study aims to evaluate the effects of EALA in terms of respiratory function, voice quality, and swallowing capabilities.

Methods

Twenty‐one pediatric patients with BVCI underwent EALA. Eleven out of 21 patients had tracheostomy at the time of surgery. Pre and postoperative functional assessments included endoscopic evaluation, maximum phonation time, pediatric Voice Handicap Index (pVHI), GIRBAS Scale criteria, and Montreal Children's Hospital Feeding scale (MCH‐Feeding scale). peak tidal inspiratory flow or peak inspiratory flow (PIF) and number of desaturations/hour (ODI/h) were evaluated in patients without tracheostomy.

Results

Postoperative endoscopy showed glottic airway improvement in all patients. Average time for decannulation was 4.6 weeks. One patient has not yet been decannulated. No major complications occurred. In patients without tracheostomy, we observed a significant improvement of ODI/h and PIF after surgery (p < 0.05) as expected. PVHI, MCH‐Feeding scale, and GIRBAS score significantly worsened 1 month after surgical intervention (p < 0.05). One year after surgery, however, all values, except for B and A parameters of the GIRBAS score, returned to levels comparable to those preoperative.

Conclusions

EALA represents a simple, safe and effective solution in pediatric patients with BVCI, avoiding tracheostomy, allowing early decannulation, preserving swallowing function, and maintaining good quality voice.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:2325–2332, 2023
Effects of Various Cell Surface Engineering Reactions on the Biological Behavior of Mammalian Cells
Authors: Cai Fengying , Ren Yafeng , Dai Jiajia , Yang Jianmin , Shi Xianai
Published: December 2022

Cell surface engineering technologies can regulate cell function and behavior by modifying the cell surface. Previous studies have mainly focused on investigating the effects of cell surface engineering reactions and materials on cell activity. However, they do not comprehensively analyze other cellular processes. This study exploits covalent bonding, hydrophobic interactions, and electrostatic interactions to modify the macromolecules succinimide ester‐methoxy polyethylene glycol (NHS‐mPEG), distearoyl phosphoethanolamine‐methoxy polyethylene glycol (DSPE‐mPEG), and poly‐L‐lysine (PLL), respectively, on the cell surface. This work systematically investigates the effects of the three surface engineering reactions on the behavior of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human skin fibroblasts, including viability, growth, proliferation, cell cycle, adhesion, and migration. The results reveals that the PLL modification method notably affects cell viability and G2/M arrest and has a short modification duration. However, the DSPE‐mPEG and NHS‐mPEG modification methods have little effect on cell viability and proliferation but have a prolonged modification duration. Moreover, the DSPE‐mPEG modification method highly affects cell adherence. Further, the NHS‐mPEG modification method can significantly improve the migration ability of HUVECs by reducing the area of focal adhesions. The findings of this study will contribute to the application of cell surface engineering technology in the biomedical field.
Comparison of simulation and analytical models for the distribution of a group of agents moving in random directions
Authors: Kuznetsov Alexander V. , Shishkina Elina L. , Rataj Małgorzata
Published: December 2022

This study focused on simulation and analytical models of a multidimensional random walk of many agents. At each step, any agent can rotate by an arbitrary angle and continue moving in the direction selected. The analytical model used gives the probability of finding an agent in the circular area of the radius
in the given time moment. The model includes parameters that control the intensity of the walking process and the characteristics of the environment. Work on this topic mainly concerns the discrete case of a random walk. In this article, we consider the case of a random walk continuous in spatial coordinates. We obtain certain theoretical results for the analytical model with the help of the mathematical apparatus aimed at working with a generalized translation. With the help of a simulation, we reveal the meaning of the analytical model's parameters. Results can be used for modeling diffusion‐like processes such as the spread of an epidemic, mechanical vibrations, forest fires, migration, and dissemination of information over a network.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of a training programme for nurses regarding augmentative and alternative communication with intubated patients using Kirkpatrick's model: A pilot study
Authors: Momennasab Marzieh , Mohammadi Fatemeh , DehghanRad Fereshteh , Jaberi Azita
Published: December 2022

Aim

Communicating with conscious intubated patients who are unable to communicate verbally is one of the challenges faced by intensive care unit (ICU) nurses. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a training programme for nurses regarding augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) with intubated patients using Kirkpatrick's model.

Design

This study had a one‐group, before–after, quasi‐experimental design.

Methods

Totally, 45 nurses working in ICUs participated in a blended training programme using AAC strategies to communicate with intubated patients. Their contribution was evaluated based on Kirkpatrick's model at four levels. The study data were collected using the “satisfaction and ease questionnaire,” “observation checklist” and “communication knowledge test.” Then, the data were analysed using the SPSS 22 software and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Most participants were satisfied with the implementation of the programme. The nurses' mean score of communication knowledge increased after the intervention (p < 0.05). The results of evaluation of the third and fourth levels of Kirkpatrick's model also showed an increase in the success of communication, use of AAC, and satisfaction with and ease of communication (p < 0.001).

Implication

Short‐term and long‐term effects of the blended training programme about AAC were investigated using Kirkpatrick's model. The results indicated the positive effect of the programme on the quality of the nurses’ communication with intubated patients, their understanding of the patients’ messages and meeting the patients’ needs at a more desirable level. Thus, nurses and other staff are recommended to use this simple method of communication with patients to provide better services. In addition, further quantitative and qualitative studies are suggested to assess these communication strategies in other patients with impaired consciousness.
Improved curing reactivity, thermal resistance and mechanical properties of furylamine‐based benzoxazine using melamine as an amine source
Authors: Ye Jiajia , Fan Zilin , Zhang Shuai , Liu Xiaobo
Published: December 2022

Benzoxazine resin is known as a high‐performance thermosetting resin, but the relatively high curing temperature and low cross‐linking density limit its broad application. The furylamine based benzoxazines possess great comprehensive performances and show great potential as bio‐based materials. In this work, the benzoxazine precursors (BAfa‐ma) containing furylamine were synthesized by using melamine as diamine to promote the curing reactivity and thermal resistance of furylamine based benzoxazines. The Fourier transform infrared (FT‐TR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy were used to confirm the chemical structures of BAfa‐ma, and differential scanning calorimetric (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were applied to verify the curing behavior and performance of obtained polymers. It is showed that there are less benzoxazine rings in BAfa‐ma as more melamine introduced, on the contrary, more phenolic hydroxyls and secondary amines appeared as built‐in catalysts. What's more, BAfa‐ma have higher reactivity, shorter gelation time and lower curing temperature. Additionally, more melamine would lead to higher crosslinking density and higher thermal resistance, poly(BAfa‐70ma) shows Tg up to 318.6 and 76.4°C higher than that of poly(BAfa). Moreover, the mechanical and dielectric properties of the corresponding glass fiber reinforced composites laminates are also investigated, and it is found that proper amount of melamine may be beneficial for higher mechanical strength.
Treatment and mortality of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in critically ill children: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tan Claire Jing‐Wen , Ng Zheng Qin , Bhattacharyya Rajat , Sultana Rehena , Lee Jan Hau
Published: December 2022

Objective

Risk factors of mortality in critically ill children with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) are not well described. This systematic review aims to determine overall mortality of critically ill children with HLH, and describes etiologies, treatment, and pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) support employed.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library from inception until February 28, 2022.

Study selection

Observational studies and randomized controlled trials reporting children aged 18 years or below, diagnosed with HLH and admitted to the PICU.

Data extraction

Etiologies, treatment modalities, PICU therapies, and mortality outcomes were summarized. Random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed.

Data synthesis

Total 36 studies (total patients = 493, mean age: 49.5 months [95% confidence interval (CI): 30.9–79.5]) were included. Pooled mortality rate was 32.6% (95% CI: 23.4–42.4). The most frequent etiologies for HLH were infections (53.3%) and primary HLH (12.8%), while the remaining cases were due to other causes of secondary HLH, including autoimmune diseases, malignancy, and drug‐induced and idiopathic HLH. Pooled mortality rate was higher in primary than secondary HLH (72.2%, 95% CI: 57.8–84.5 vs. 23.9%, 95% CI: 14.4–35.02; p < .01). Univariate analysis found that treatment with etoposide was associated with higher mortality, while intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIGs) were associated with lower mortality. Conversely, multivariable analysis adjusted for etiology demonstrated no association between etoposide and IVIG use, and mortality. Twenty‐one studies (total patients = 278) had detailed information on PICU therapies. Mechanical ventilation (MV), continuous renal replacement therapy, and inotropes were used in 107 (38.5%), 66 (23.7%), and 51 patients (18.3%), respectively. Need for MV was associated with increased risk of mortality (mean difference = 28%, 95% CI: 9–47).

Conclusion

Critically ill children with HLH have high mortality rates and require substantial PICU support. Collaborative work between multiple centers with standardized data collection can potentially provide more robust data.
Pediatric refractory immune thrombocytopenia: A systematic review
Authors: Ibrahim Layan , Dong Selina X. , O'Hearn Katie , Grimes Amanda B. , Kaicker Shipra , FritchLilla Stephanie , Breakey Vicky R. , Grace Rachael F. , Lebensburger Jeffrey D. , Klaassen Robert J. , Lambert Michele
Published: December 2022

Pediatric immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired disorder associated with autoimmune destruction and impairment of platelet production in children. Some children exhibit poor or transient response to ITP‐directed treatments and are referred to as having refractory ITP (rITP). There is currently no consensus on the definition of rITP, nor evidence‐based treatment guidelines for patients with rITP. After a survey of pediatric ITP experts demonstrated lack of consensus on pediatric rITP, we pursued a systematic review to examine the reported clinical phenotypes and treatment outcomes in pediatric rITP. The search identified 253 relevant manuscripts; following review, 11 studies proposed a definition for pediatric rITP with no consensus amongst them. Most definitions included suboptimal response to medical management, while some outlined specific platelet thresholds to define this suboptimal response. Common attributes identified in this study should be used to propose a comprehensive definition, which will facilitate outcome comparisons of future rITP studies.
Determinants of delayed childhood cancer care in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review
Authors: Cotache‐Condor Cesia , Kantety Vinootna , Grimm Andie , Williamson Jahsarah , Landrum Kelsey R , Schroeder Kristin , Staton Catherine , Majaliwa Esther , Tang Shenglan , Rice Henry E. , Smith Emily R.
Published: December 2022

Early access to care is essential to improve survival rates for childhood cancer. This study evaluates the determinants of delays in childhood cancer care in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) through a systematic review of the literature. We proposed a novel Three‐Delay framework specific to childhood cancer in LMICs by summarizing 43 determinants and 24 risk factors of delayed cancer care from 95 studies. Traditional medicine, household income, lack of transportation, rural population, parental education, and travel distance influenced most domains of our framework. Our novel framework can be used as a policy tool toward improving cancer care and outcomes for children in LMICs.
Effect of ply thickness on tensile and bending performances of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic unidirectional laminate
Authors: Liu Haolin , Ma Xinqi , Jiang Lin , Sang Lin , Hou Wenbin , Zhang Zhuqing , Wu Haihong
Published: December 2022

It has been explored that thin ply would improve the mechanical performances of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites laminate. It has not been known whether there are similar effects on thermoplastic composites. In this article, carbon fiber reinforced polyamide 6 (CF/PA6) unidirectional fabrics with two thicknesses of 0.045 and 0.105 mm were used to fabricate the unidirectional laminate (UDL). Tensile and bending behaviors of the UDL were recorded with a digital image correlation (DIC) system, their damage macro‐morphologies were observed with high‐speed camera during loading. The fracture microstructures of the samples were observed with SEM and optic microscope. The results showed that the tensile and bending strengths of the samples with 0.045 mm thick are 79.8% and 24.8% higher than that with 0.105 mm thick. Thinning ply can inhibit the crack expanding, and the time from crack originating to fracture of the sample is larger than that of the thick ply one. Morphologies of the fractures revealed that the crack mainly expanded in the matrix along the loading direction for thin‐ply laminate, while the crack developed in the fiber cluster for thick‐ply laminate. The results also revealed that the mechanical properties of the laminate can be improved obviously by using thin‐ply.
The association between sleep and physical activity with persisting postconcussion symptoms among adolescent athletes
Authors: Neely Linda M. , Smulligan Katherine L. , Wingerson Mathew J. , Seehusen Corrine N. , Simon Stacey L. , Wilson Julie C. , Howell David R.
Published: December 2022

Background

Both sleep duration and physical activity following concussion may influence subsequent recovery. Objective measurement of sleep and physical activity behavior via wearable technology may provide insights into their association with concussion recovery.

Objective

To determine whether sleep behavior (eg, duration, timing) and/or physical activity (steps/day, or exercise frequency, duration, intensity) in the first month after adolescent sports‐related concussion are associated with developing persisting postconcussion symptoms (PPCS).

Design

Case–control.

Setting

Outpatient sports medicine clinic.

Participants

The study prospectively enrolled adolescent athletes who sustained a concussion (N = 49, age = 14.8 ± 1.8 years; 51% female) who were evaluated within 14 days of concussion (mean = 6.7 ± 2.7 days) and followed uvia sleep/physical activity monitoring for the subsequent 2 weeks.

Main Outcome Measures

Participants wore a monitor to track sleep (sleep time, wake time, and time spent awake in bed at night) and physical activity (average steps/day, exercise frequency, exercise duration) behavior for 2 weeks after initial assessment. Participants were followed until symptom resolution, and the main outcome of interest was development of PPCS (symptom duration >28 days). A multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine associations between physical activity and sleep behavior with PPCS.

Results

Of the 49 participants, 47% (n = 23, mean symptom resolution = 57 ± 23 days post injury) developed PPCS and 53% (n = 26, mean symptom resolution = 15 ± 7 days post injury) did not. Univariable analysis showed that the PPCS group took fewer steps/day (7526 ± 2975 vs. 9803 ± 3786 steps/day; p = .02), exercised less frequently (2.5 ± 2.2 vs. 4.4 ± 2.1 days/week; p = .005), and spent more time in bed awake (1.2 ± 0.3 vs. 0.8 ± 0.3 h/night; p = .03) than the no PPCS group. Multivariable results indicated the odds of developing PPCS significantly increased with fewer exercise session/week (adjusted odds ratio = 1.96, 95% confidence interval = 1.09, 3.51, p = .024).

Conclusions

More exercise sessions that were longer than 15 minutes during concussion recovery was associated with a lower risk of developing PPCS, whereas sleep and other physical activity measures were not. Further studies regarding exercise duration and intensity are needed. Clinicians may consider advising patients to optimize sleep and physical activity during concussion recovery.
Additively Manufactured Micro‐ and Nano‐ Al/PVDF Ignition Sensitivity and Burning Characterization
Authors: Uhlenhake Kyle E. , Collard Diane N. , Hoganson Alexander C. , Brown Alex D. , Fox Sara , Örnek Metin , Rhoads Jeffrey F. , Son Steven F.
Published: December 2022

Aluminum (Al) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) composites can be used in many unique applications in the field of energetic materials. Due to their low melting point, many PVDF composites can be additively manufactured. However, more research is needed to better understand the ignition and combustion of these materials. Manipulating the size of aluminum (Al) particles in Al/PVDF composites can drastically alter the burning rate, ignition characteristics, and possibly flame temperatures. This study characterizes the ignition of additively manufactured micro‐ and nano‐ Al/PVDF composites through hotwire ignition tests. Both nAl and μAl particles were mixed in PVDF at 20 wt.% and additively manufactured into disks via fused filament fabrication. The nAl/PVDF printed disks ignited at a minimum ignition power (MIP) of 4.1 W compared to the 9.5 W required for ignition of μAl/PVDF disks. At identical powers, ignition delays were significantly shorter for nAl/PVDF disks. Additionally, while the nAl/PVDF disks reacted instantaneously at any power above their MIP, the μAl/PVDF disks exhibited smaller, localized flames before complete combustion, if the power was below 17.5 W. Flame temperatures were estimated through three‐color pyrometry and compared to thermochemical equilibrium calculations. While theoretical flame temperatures for nAl/PVDF and μAl/PVDF are 2023 K and 2314 K respectively, both samples burned near 2000 K when measured using pyrometry.
Modulation of hydrogel networks by metal ions
Authors: La Manna Sara , Florio Daniele , Di Natale Concetta , Marasco Daniela
Published: December 2022

Self‐assembling hydrogels are receiving great attention for both biomedical and technological applications. Self‐assembly of protein/peptides as well as organic molecules is commonly induced in response to external triggers such as changes of temperature, concentration, or pH. An interesting strategy to modulate the morphology and mechanical properties of the gels implies the use of metal ions, where coordination bonds regulate the dynamic cross‐linking in the construction of hydrogels, and coordination geometries, catalytic, and redox properties of metal ions play crucial roles. This review aims to discuss recent insights into the supramolecular assembly of hydrogels involving metal ions, with a focus on self‐assembling peptides, as well as applications of metallogels in biomedical fields including tissue engineering, sensing, wound healing, and drug delivery.
Configurational Entropy Effect on Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1 and Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32 High‐Entropy Alloys
Authors: Ju Shin-Pon , Lee I-Jui , Li Chen-Chun , Shih Huai-Ting , Wang Wen-Zhi
Published: December 2022

The configurational entropy effect on thermal and mechanical properties of Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1 and Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32 face‐centered cubic high‐entropy alloys is investigated by the molecular dynamics simulation with the second‐nearest‐neighbor modified embedded‐atom‐method potential. Using the heating process, 3000 and 2375 K are melting temperatures (Tm) of Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1 and Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32. Local structures around Co atoms become more distorted above 2425 K (about 0.81Tm) for Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1 and 1325 K (about 0.56Tm) for Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32. The Arrhenius equation shows that diffusion barriers of all element types in Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1 are about 50–89% higher than those in Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32, and the pre‐exponential factors of Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1 are about one order higher than those of Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32. Using the uniaxial compression simulation, the ultimate and yielding stresses of Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1 are about 88.3% and 53.4% higher than the corresponding values of Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32. For Young's modulus, Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1 is about 34.8% higher than that of Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32. At the yielding strain, the dislocation extraction algorithm results show that no local defected structures appear within Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1, whereas several nanoclusters of defected structures distribute randomly within Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32. At ultimate strain, multiple Shockley partial dislocations nucleate from the free surfaces for Pt1Pd1Rh1Co1, and more nanoclusters of defected structures appear within Pt41Pd18Rh5Co32, where Shockley partial dislocations nucleate.
The effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on glycemia, lipid profile, and antioxidant status in patients with type‐2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Tajaddini Aynaz , Roshanravan Neda , Mobasseri Majid , Haleem Al‐qaim Zahraa , Hadi Amir , Aeinehchi Aydin , Sefid‐Mooye Azar Pouria , Ostadrahimi Alireza
Published: December 2022

In the current study, we aimed to investigate the effect of saffron supplementation on glycemic status, lipid profile, atherogenic indices, and oxidative status in patients with type‐2 diabetes (T2DM). In a randomized, double‐blind controlled trial, 70 patients were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 35, each) and received 100 mg/day of saffron or placebo for eight weeks. Dietary intake, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumferences (WC and HC), waist to hip ratio (WHR), fasting blood sugar (FBS), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), insulin, and Homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), lipid profile, atherogenic indices, oxidative status, and liver enzymes were determined before and after the intervention. At the end of the eighth week, saffron intervention could significantly reduce FBS (7.57%), lipid profile (except high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL‐C]), atherogenic indices, and liver enzymes (p < .05). Moreover, saffron could improve oxidative status (nitric oxide [NO] and malondialdehyde [MDA] reduced by 26.29% and 16.35%, respectively). Catalase (CAT) concentration remained unchanged. Saffron supplementation may alleviate T2DM by improving glycemic status, lipid profile, liver enzymes, and oxidative status. Further investigation is necessary to assess possible side effects and confirm the positive effect of saffron as a complementary therapy in clinical recommendations for T2DM.
Performance based attack detection and security analysis for cyber‐physical systems
Authors: Zhao Zhengen , Xu Yunsong
Published: December 2022

This paper studies attack detection and security analysis for cyber‐physical systems from the viewpoint of control performance. The performance residual generated by Bellman equation has been presented to construct the attack detector. Then, the control‐performance‐based attack detection schemes are designed for state measurable system and state unmeasurable system, respectively. Furthermore, the data‐driven realizations of control‐performance‐based attack detection are presented via kernel identification. Moreover, the security analysis of the proposed control‐performance‐based attack detection schemes is studied, in which the undetectable state and output attacks are designed. Finally, simulations on the model of a flight vehicle demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.