bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proton pump inhibitors and the risk of acute kidney injury in cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors: A Danish population‐based cohort study
Authors: Munch Philip Vestergaard , Nørgaard Mette , Heide‐Jørgensen Uffe , Jensen Simon Kok , Birn Henrik , Christiansen Christian Fynbo
Published: November 2023

Previous studies have suggested that the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) more than doubles the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, this association may be confounded. Therefore, we conducted a register‐based cohort study to examine the risk of AKI in users and nonusers of PPIs among cancer patients treated with ICIs in Denmark from 2011 through 2021 while accounting for a comprehensive range of potential confounders. PPI use was determined based on redeemed prescriptions of PPIs before ICI initiation. We identified laboratory‐recorded AKI events within the first year after ICI initiation. We estimated the risks and hazard ratios (HRs) of AKI while accounting for a comprehensive range of confounders (including comorbidities and comedication) by propensity score weighting. Furthermore, we performed an additional per‐protocol analysis while accounting for informative censoring by weighting. We identified 10 200 cancer patients including 2749 (27%) users, 6214 (61%) nonusers, and 1237 (12%) former users of PPIs. PPI users had an increased risk of AKI compared to nonusers (1‐year risk, 24.7% vs 19.9%; HR, 1.42 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.29‐1.56]); however, this association attenuated when accounting for confounders (weighted 1‐year risk, 24.2% vs 23.8%; weighted HR, 1.06 [95% CI, 0.93‐1.21]). In the per‐protocol analysis, the crude HR was 1.86 (95% CI, 1.63‐2.12), while the weighted HR was 1.24 (95% CI, 1.03‐1.49). Thus, the association between PPI use and AKI could largely be explained by confounding, suggesting that previous studies may have overestimated the association.
Lipid fingerprint‐based histology accurately classifies nevus, primary melanoma, and metastatic melanoma samples
Authors: Huergo‐Baños Cristina , Velasco Verónica , Garate Jone , Fernández Roberto , Martín‐Allende Javier , Zabalza Ignacio , Artola Juan L. , Martí Rosa M. , Asumendi Aintzane , Astigarraga Egoitz , Barreda‐Gómez Gabriel , Fresnedo Olatz , Ochoa Begoña , Boyano Maria D. , Fernández José A.
Published: November 2023

Probably, the most important factor for the survival of a melanoma patient is early detection and precise diagnosis. Although in most cases these tasks are readily carried out by pathologists and dermatologists, there are still difficult cases in which no consensus among experts is achieved. To deal with such cases, new methodologies are required. Following this motivation, we explore here the use of lipid imaging mass spectrometry as a complementary tool for the aid in the diagnosis. Thus, 53 samples (15 nevus, 24 primary melanomas, and 14 metastasis) were explored with the aid of a mass spectrometer, using negative polarity. The rich lipid fingerprint obtained from the samples allowed us to set up an artificial intelligence‐based classification model that achieved 100% of specificity and precision both in training and validation data sets. A deeper analysis of the image data shows that the technique reports important information on the tumor microenvironment that may give invaluable insights in the prognosis of the lesion, with the correct interpretation.
Fostering empathy and social justice through a culturally responsive approach to reading
Authors: Colosimo Natalie
Published: November 2023

The book Culturally Responsive Reading: Teaching Literature for Social Justice by Durthy A. Washington provides educators with an incisive approach to analyzing multicultural texts through the “four keys to culture”: Language, Identity, Space, and Time, or the LIST Paradigm. This framework offers students and teachers a guided approach to critically analyze literature and “bridge the gap between the conventional study of literature and the new multi‐cultural literature that is being taught”. It also asks students to examine their own cultural backgrounds and perspectives of the world around them and how that influences their interpretation of the text. The LIST Paradigm strives to ensure that teachers and students stay true to the author's intent and cultural perspective when critically approaching their literary works.
Associations of generalized anxiety and social anxiety with perceived difficulties in school in the adolescent general population
Authors: Kajastus Kati , Haravuori Henna , Kiviruusu Olli , Marttunen Mauri , Ranta Klaus
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), marked by excessive worry, and social anxiety disorder (SAD) are among the clinically most important anxiety disorders in the adolescent population. This study aimed to explore the associations between perceived difficulties in school and heightened levels of self‐reported noncomorbid and comorbid GAD and SAD symptoms.

Methods

Survey data of 37,905 Finnish upper secondary school students with a mean age of 17.33 years (SD = 0.63) were obtained from the School Health Promotion study, implemented in April and May 2015 in Finland. Exploratory factor analysis was used to determine indicators of academic and social difficulties in school. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine multivariate associations between anxiety symptoms and difficulties in the school. The anxiety symptom thresholds were based on the seven‐item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (≥10 points) for GAD‐related symptoms and the Mini‐SPIN (≥6 points) for SAD‐related symptoms.

Results

Self‐reported generalized anxiety and social anxiety were both significantly associated with various perceived difficulties in school among this adolescent general population sample. Noncomorbid and comorbid GAD and SAD symptoms were both associated with an increased risk of academic and social difficulties, even when controlling for school performance. Comorbid symptoms were associated with significantly higher rates of social difficulties than noncomorbid symptoms of GAD or SAD. Furthermore, GAD symptoms were associated with a high risk for academic difficulties, irrespective of comorbidity.

Conclusions

Excessive worry, a defining feature of GAD, is central to school‐related impairments among adolescents. The present study highlights the importance of school‐based interventions for anxious adolescents. Interventions to improve adolescents'; school functioning should account for the interference of pathological worry related to GAD.
Hypoxia‐induced factor‐1α promotes radioresistance of esophageal cancer cells by transcriptionally activating LINC01116 and suppressing miR‐3612 under hypoxia
Authors: Zhang Mengyan , Wang Zhiping , Wu Yahua , Chen Mingqiu , Li Jiancheng , Liu Guolong
Published: November 2023

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a challenging tumor to treat with radiotherapy, often exhibiting resistance to this treatment modality. To explore the factors influencing radioresistance, we focused on the role of hypoxia‐induced factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), and its interaction with the long noncoding RNA long intergenic nonprotein coding RNA 1116 (LINC01116). We analyzed the LINC01116 expression in EC and EC cell lines/human normal esophageal epithelial cell line (Het‐1A). LINC01116 was silenced/overexpressed in EC109/KYSE30 cells under hypoxia, followed by radioresistance assessment. We measured HIF‐1α levels in hypoxic EC cells and further validated the binding of HIF‐1α with LINC01116, analyzing their interaction in EC cells. We then performed experiments in EC109 cells by transfection them with sh‐HIF‐1α/oe‐LINC01116 to verify the effects. Additonally, we analyzed the localization of LINC01116 and its binding with miR‐3612, followed by a combined experiment performed to validate the results. Our findings indicated that LINC01116 was highly expressed in EC and further elevated in hypoxic EC cells. LINC01116 was expressed at a high level in EC, which was further elevated in EC cells under hypoxic conditions. Knockdown of LINC01116 triggered EC cell apoptosis, thus suppressing radioresistance. Further investigation revealed that HIF‐1α transcriptionally activated LINC01116 expression under hypoxia, and silencing HIF‐1α lowered EC cell radioresistance by downregulating LINC01116. Under hypoxic conditions, LINC01116 could function as a sponge for miR‐3612 and inhibit its expression. This interaction between LINC01116 and miR‐3612 played a crucial role in mediating radioresistance in EC cells. Briefly, under hypoxic conditions, HIF‐1α facilitates radioresistance of EC cells by transcriptionally activating LINC01116 expression and downregulating miR‐3612.
Toxicological assessment of sodium benzoate in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Asejeje Folake O. , Alade Timilehin F. , Oyibo Aghogho , Abolaji Amos O.
Published: November 2023

Sodium benzoate (SB), the sodium salt of benzoic acid, is a food preservative with wide applications in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries due to its ability to kill many microorganisms effectively. Experimental evidence however suggests that excessive intake of SB poses detrimental health risks among consumers in the population. The present study investigated the toxic effects of various concentrations of SB using Drosophila melanogaster as a model. Adult wild‐type flies of Canton S strain (1‐ to 3‐days old) was orally exposed to SB (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 5.0 mg/5 g diet) to evaluate survival rates for 21 days. Thereafter, we evaluated markers of oxidative stress, antioxidant status and behavioral activity in D. melanogaster exposed to SB for seven (7) days. We observed that SB (2.0 and 5.0 mg/5 g diet) decreased the survival of D. melanogaster. Also, SB inhibited glutathione‐S‐transferase activity and depleted total thiols and nonprotein thiols contents. Moreover, SB (5 mg/5 g diet) increased nitric oxide (nitrite/nitrate) level and reduced flies' emergence rate. Conclusively, findings from this study revealed that exposure to high concentrations of SB reduced survival rate and induced toxicity via the induction of oxidative stress and inhibition of antioxidant enzymes in D. melanogaster.
MicroRNA‐92b in the skeletal muscle regulates exercise capacity via modulation of glucose metabolism
Authors: Yang Shu , Yang Guangyan , Wang Xinyu , Li Lixing , Li Yanchun , Xiang Jiaqing , Kang Lin , Liang Zhen
Published: November 2023

Background

Exercise mimetics is a proposed class of therapeutics that specifically mimics or enhances the therapeutic effects of exercise. Muscle glycogen and lactate extrusion are critical for physical performance. The mechanism by which glycogen and lactate metabolism are manipulated during exercise remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the effect of miR‐92b on the upregulation of exercise training‐induced physical performance.

Methods

Adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐mediated skeletal muscle miR‐92b overexpression in C57BLKS/J mice, and global knockout of miR‐92b mice were used to explore the function of miR‐92b in glycogen and lactate metabolism in skeletal muscle. AAV‐mediated UGP2 or MCT4 knockdown in WT or miR‐92 knockout mice was used to confirm whether miR‐92b regulates glycogen and lactate metabolism in skeletal muscle through UGP2 and MCT4. Body weight, muscle weight, grip strength, running time and distance to exhaustion, and muscle histology were assessed. The expression levels of muscle mass‐related and function‐related proteins were analysed by immunoblotting or immunostaining.

Results

Global knockout of miR‐92b resulted in normal body weight and insulin sensitivity, but higher glycogen content before exercise exhaustion (0.8538 ± 0.0417 vs. 1.043 ± 0.040, **P = 0.0087), lower lactate levels after exercise exhaustion (4.133 ± 0.2589 vs. 3.207 ± 0.2511, *P = 0.0279), and better exercise capacity (running distance to exhaustion, 3616 ± 86.71 vs. 4231 ± 90.29, ***P = 0.0006; running time to exhaustion, 186.8 ± 8.027 vs. 220.8 ± 3.156, **P = 0.0028), as compared with those observed in the control mice. Mice skeletal muscle overexpressing miR‐92b (both miR‐92b‐3p and miR‐92b‐5p) displayed lower glycogen content before exercise exhaustion (0.6318 ± 0.0231 vs. 0.535 ± 0.0194, **P = 0.0094), and higher lactate accumulation after exercise exhaustion (4.5 ± 0.2394 vs. 5.467 ± 0.1892, *P = 0.01), and poorer exercise capacity (running distance to exhaustion, 4005 ± 81.65 vs. 3228 ± 149.8, ***P<0.0001; running time to exhaustion, 225.5 ± 7.689 vs. 163 ± 6.476, **P = 0.001). Mechanistic analysis revealed that miR‐92b‐3p targets UDP‐glucose pyrophosphorylase 2 (UGP2) expression to inhibit glycogen synthesis, while miR‐92b‐5p represses lactate extrusion by directly target monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4). Knockdown of UGP2 and MCT4 reversed the effects observed in the absence of miR‐92b in vivo.

Conclusions

This study revealed regulatory pathways, including miR‐92b‐3p/UGP2/glycogen synthesis and miR‐92b‐5p/MCT4/lactate extrusion, which could be targeted to control exercise capacity.
Bioinformatics analysis of the prognosis and biological significance of N6 methyladenine regulators in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yu Mei , Shen Fang , Li Xiuxian , Zhu Chuandong , Pei Yaoyao , Zhang Manli , Xiao Wei
Published: November 2023

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common type of cancer. We performed the present study to explore the function and specific regulatory mechanism of m6A in OSCC and to find a new diagnosis and treatment strategy for OSCC.

Methods

Using bioinformatics, we examined the associations between 20 genes associated with methylation and the epidemiological data about OSCC tumor samples.

Results

We created two subgroup curves based on the gene expression levels related to m6A methylation. In total, 14 genes were found to be differentially expressed. Significant differences in terms of survival rates, Grade and gender were found among subgroups with different m6A expression levels. Nine genes had areas under the curves greater than 0.7. Therefore, these genes may be utilized for the clinical diagnosis and prognosis of OSCC. Because of their high individual predictive value, HNRNPC and IGF2BP2 were chosen as the two potential predictors. The two regulatory elements were used to create the prognostic signals for OSCC. The developed prognostic signals made it possible to discern between the samples with good and poor prognoses without potential confounding factors. Four genes (HNRNPC, METTL14, YTHDF2 and ALKBH5) combined well with compounds, which had an anti‐cancer effect.

Conclusions

Our findings suggested that OSCC‐related genes with m6A methylation could be beneficial treatment targets or prognostic indicators.
Novel surfactants and their application as universal lubricity aids
Authors: Moore Lucas R. , Bryant Garret P. , Taylor Jordan , McEnery Molly , Holtcamp Timothy G. , Boggs Sydney
Published: November 2023

The reduction in friction is a desired property in many industries. Some of the applications include the movement of liquid or slurry through a pipeline in oil or mining, the grinding of one metal on another during fabrication, metal on paper in the making of nearly any paper product, to even something closer to home with the movement of a brush or comb through one's hair. Friction yields higher degrees of strain or stress on one or both of the substrates. This can be costly due to energy requirements, wear of equipment, or even breakage of the substrate. Even though the need exists in so many industries, the mechanisms of lubricity vary enough in each that there really is not a universal lubricity aid that can successfully be applied across the different industries. A family of novel lubricity aids based on alkyl polyglucosides have been synthesized and evaluated in the lab on both metal/metal friction reduction as well as comb/hair friction reduction. One of the modified alkyl polyglucosides has yielded excellent reduction in friction in both applications.
Salivary Mucinous Adenocarcinoma Masquerading as Chronic Submandibular Sialolithiasis
Authors: Vettikattu Nikhil T. , Daoud Georges E. , Viswanathan Kartik , Kaka Azeem S.
Published: November 2023

A patient with chronic submandibular sialolithiasis underwent conservative treatment with appropriate imaging and multiple biopsies that continually revealed chronic inflammation. Due to continued symptoms, the patient underwent eventual excision and finaly pathology revealed salivary mucinous adenocarcinoma, which is a rare and poorly understood salivary malignancy. Persistent diagnostic workup and a high suspicion for salivary gland lesions is important for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. More attention and research on this specific entity can help future clinicians better diagnose and treat patients with a similar presentation. Laryngoscope, 134:2258–2261, 2024
Higher Rates of Inadequate Adjuvant Radiation Dose Among Older Adults with Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Raab Gabriel , Babu Christopher , Yu Yao , Givi Babak , Wong Richard J. , Lee Nancy Y. , Zakeri Kaveh
Published: November 2023

Objective

To determine the rate of inadequate radiotherapy and identify risk factors associated with inadequate adjuvant radiotherapy for head and neck cancer among older adults.

Methods

A retrospective review of the National Cancer Database (NCDB) was performed to identify patients diagnosed with squamous cell cancer of the head and neck between 2004 and 2017. Patients with a single malignancy, negative surgical margins, no extranodal extension, and receipt of adjuvant radiation without systemic therapy were included in the study cohort. The main outcome of interest was the adjuvant radiation dose received. Participant data were compared using univariable, multivariable, and correlation analyses to evaluate risk factors for inadequate radiation therapy (RT) dosing.

Results

Among 7608 patients, 1010 patients (13.3%) received an inadequate radiation dose and 6598 (86.7%) received an adequate dose. Patients living in a higher income zip‐code, younger age, and those who received intensity‐modulated RT (IMRT) were more likely to receive an adequate radiation dose (p < 0.05). Patients older than 70 and 80 years old had a greater likelihood of receiving an inadequate radiation dose (≥70 vs. <70: 16.9% vs. 12.5%; p < 0.05 and ≥80 vs. <80: 20.6% vs. 13.0%%; p < 0.05). Similarly, increasing age was negatively correlated with radiation dose (correlation coefficient: −0.05; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of older patients receiving adjuvant radiation do not complete the full treatment. Older age, year of diagnosis, non‐IMRT, and living in a lower‐income zip code were associated with early termination of RT. Future studies should examine strategies to improve tolerance of adjuvant RT so that more patients complete the full treatment.

Level of Evidence

3; Cohort Study Laryngoscope, 134:2206–2211, 2024
Evaluation of Oropharyngeal Cancer Information from Revolutionary Artificial Intelligence Chatbot
Authors: Davis Ryan J. , Ayo‐Ajibola Oluwatobiloba , Lin Matthew E. , Swanson Mark S. , Chambers Tamara N. , Kwon Daniel I. , Kokot Niels C.
Published: November 2023

Objective

With burgeoning popularity of artificial intelligence‐based chatbots, oropharyngeal cancer patients now have access to a novel source of medical information. Because chatbot information is not reviewed by experts, we sought to evaluate an artificial intelligence‐based chatbot's oropharyngeal cancer‐related information for accuracy.

Methods

Fifteen oropharyngeal cancer‐related questions were developed and input into ChatGPT version 3.5. Four physician‐graders independently assessed accuracy, comprehensiveness, and similarity to a physician response using 5‐point Likert scales. Responses graded lower than three were then critiqued by physician‐graders. Critiques were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Readability of responses was assessed using Flesch Reading Ease (FRE) and Flesch–Kincaid Reading Grade Level (FKRGL) scales.

Results

Average accuracy, comprehensiveness, and similarity to a physician response scores were 3.88 (SD = 0.99), 3.80 (SD = 1.14), and 3.67 (SD = 1.08), respectively. Posttreatment‐related questions were most accurate, comprehensive, and similar to a physician response, followed by treatment‐related, then diagnosis‐related questions. Posttreatment‐related questions scored significantly higher than diagnosis‐related questions in all three domains (p < 0.01). Two themes of the physician critiques were identified: suboptimal education value and potential to misinform patients. The mean FRE and FKRGL scores both indicated greater than an 11th grade readability level—higher than the 6th grade level recommended for patients.

Conclusion

ChatGPT responses may not educate patients to an appropriate degree, could outright misinform them, and read at a more difficult grade level than is recommended for patient material. As oropharyngeal cancer patients represent a vulnerable population facing complex, life‐altering diagnoses, and treatments, they should be cautious when consuming chatbot‐generated medical information.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:2252–2257, 2024
Do trade and technology foster employment growth? Evidence from Indian industries
Authors: Sharma Chandan , Khanna Rupika
Published: November 2023

Several developing economies have been generating fast growth, but formal employment generation remains a concern, causing a significant workforce to continue working in the informal sector. In this context, this study investigates the employment effects of international trade and in‐house R&D in the Indian case. Our attempt is important because India is not only the largest country in terms of population but also the largest working population in the world. We coalesce industry‐level data from two different sources for the period 1991–2018 and employ a powerful system GMM estimator in the analysis. Our findings are interesting and vital. We show that although the role of trade is overall positive, export and import have contrasting roles individually in generating employment. Most generally, exporting is a generator of employment, while importing causes a loss in it. Our analysis implies that the interplay of trade, and individually that of exports and imports, with in‐house R&D depends on many factors and may be more intricate than previously assumed.
Revisiting Aurora Kinase B: A promising therapeutic target for cancer therapy
Authors: Lakkaniga Naga Rajiv , Wang Zhengyu , Xiao Yao , Kharbanda Anupreet , Lan Li , Li Hong‐yu
Published: November 2023

Cancer continues to be a major health concern globally, although the advent of targeted therapy has revolutionized treatment options. Aurora Kinase B is a serine‐threonine kinase that has been explored as an oncology therapeutic target for more than two decades. Aurora Kinase B inhibitors show promising biological results in in‐vitro and in‐vivo experiments. However, there are no inhibitors approved yet for clinical use, primarily because of the side effects associated with Aurora B inhibitors. Several studies demonstrate that Aurora B inhibitors show excellent synergy with various chemotherapeutic agents, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. This makes it an excellent choice as an adjuvant therapy to first‐line therapies, which greatly improves the therapeutic window and side effect profile. Recent studies indicate the role of Aurora B in some deadly cancers with limited therapeutic options, like triple‐negative breast cancer and glioblastoma. Herein, we review the latest developments in Aurora Kinase B targeted research, with emphasis on its potential as an adjuvant therapy and its role in some of the most difficult‐to‐treat cancers.
Millimeter‐wave filtenna for 5G application with multiple controllable radiation nulls and wide stopband
Authors: Li Jiawang , Zhu Yuanwei , Hu Yun , Hong Wei
Published: November 2023

A filtenna (filtering antenna) for the fifth generation (5G) mobile communications in millimeter‐wave (mmWave) band is proposed in this paper. The filtenna is fed by a probe, and two radiation nulls are generated at the upper sideband based on the stacked‐patches structure. Then, two shorting pins loaded on the driven patch are introduced, which then result in the third radiation null. An “X‐character” shape radiation loop is added therefore, the fourth radiation null can be generated. Besides, the fifth radiation null at around 34 GHz is generated by adding four parasitic strips on the top radiation patch. The measured −10 dB impedance bandwidth of the filtenna is from 23.07 to 30.99 GHz. The average gain of the antenna is larger than 5.5 dBi, and the stopband suppression can reach 14 dB with a wide stopband. With the merits of low profile, wide stopband, and stable radiation, the proposed filtenna can be a good candidate for 5G mmWave applications.
Fabrications of electrically small hemispherical antenna
Authors: Ghosh Purno , Harackiewicz Frances J.
Published: November 2023

A hemispherical‐shaped folded electrically small antenna (ESA) is a well‐known antenna where the radiating conductor is a wire or flat strip of variable width. This work analyzed the performance of strip‐based ESA for a constant strip width and focused on the fabrication procedure which utilizes the low‐cost dielectric material and ubiquitous 3‐D printer. The impact of additional dielectric support on the performance of ESA was investigated. This work also introduced conductive paint for the radiating part, along with metallic wire and strip. There is a good agreement between simulated and measured results. The 3‐D printing technique offers design flexibility, eases fabrication difficulty, reduces material cost, and improves the mechanical stability of the antenna.
Development of a joint prediction model based on both the radiomics and clinical factors for preoperative prediction of circumferential resection margin in middle‐low rectal cancer using T2WI images
Authors: Ju Yiheng , Zheng Longbo , Qi Wei , Tian Guangye , Lu Yun
Published: November 2023

Objectives

A circumferential resection margin (CRM) is an independent risk factor for local recurrence, distant metastasis, and poor overall survival of rectal cancer. In this study, we developed and validated a radiomics prediction model to predict perioperative surgical margins in patients with middle and low rectal cancer following neoadjuvant treatment and for decisions about treatment plans for patients.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed 275 patients from center 1(training cohort) and 120 patients from center 2(verification cohort) with rectal cancer diagnosed at two centers from July 2020 to July 2022 who underwent neoadjuvant therapy and had their CRM status confirmed by preoperative high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Radiomics signatures were extracted and screened from MRI images and a radiomics signature was built by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression model, which was combined with clinical signatures to construct a nomogram. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) value, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and calibration curve were used to evaluate the predictive performance of the model.

Results

In our research, the combined model has the best performance. In the training group, the radiomics model based on high‐spatial‐resolution T2‐weighted imaging (HR‐T2WI), clinical model and combined model demonstrated an AUC of 0.819 (0.802–0.833), 0.843 (0.822–0.861), and 0.910 (0.880‐0.940), respectively. In the validation group, they demonstrated an AUC of 0.745 (0.715–0.788), 0.827 (0.798–0.850), and 0.848 (0.779‐0.917), respectively. The calibration curve confirmed the clinical applicability of the model.

Conclusions

The individualized prediction model established by combining radiomics signatures and clinical signatures can efficiently and objectively predict perioperative margin invasion in patients with middle and low rectal cancer.
First feeding of a marine ornamental fish, the White‐barred Goby Amblygobius phalaena: Investigating the optimal initial live feed organisms and optimal feeding density
Authors: Chiu Pei‐Sheng , Ho Shine‐Wei , Hsu Jie , Huang Cheng‐Hsuan , Lee Yen‐Chun , Lin Yu‐Hung
Published: November 2023

Objective

The White‐barred Goby Amblygobius phalaena is a popular ornamental fish in the marine aquarium market. To achieve successful commercial production, efficient larval rearing techniques are crucial. Previous studies have achieved successful cultivation of White‐barred Goby larvae by using a combination of three live feed organisms—the ciliate Euplotes sp., the rotifer Brachionus rotundiformis, and the copepod Apocyclops royi nauplii—during the first feeding stage. However, the specific contributions of these live feed organisms to larval survival and growth remain unclear. Moreover, the optimal feeding density for the critical initial live feed organism has not been determined experimentally. In this study, we aimed to enhance the larviculture protocol for White‐barred Goby by introducing Portuguese oyster Crassostrea angulata trochophores and by addressing these knowledge gaps.

Methods

Larvae were initially cultured through individual and combined feeding with four live feed organisms: Euplotes sp., Portuguese oyster trochophores, B. rotundiformis, and A. royi nauplii. The objective was to identify the optimal initial live feed organism during the first feeding stage by assessing the survival and growth performance of larvae. Subsequently, using this optimal live feed organism, larvae were cultured at four feeding densities (2, 5, 10, and 20 individuals/mL). Through evaluating feeding incidence, feeding intensity, survival, and growth performance, the aim was to determine the optimal feeding density for the selected live prey.

Result

Our experiments revealed that White‐barred Goby larvae could consume both oyster trochophores and Euplotes sp. during the first feeding stage. However, larvae exhibited superior survival and growth performance when fed oyster trochophores. The optimal feeding density of oyster trochophores was determined to be 10 individuals/mL, while a feeding density as high as 20 individuals/mL resulted in decreased larval feeding incidence.

Conclusion

These findings have significant implications for enhancing larval production programs for marine ornamental gobies and promoting their sustainable commercialization.
Numerical strategy for solving general C1‐continuous beam‐to‐beam contact problems
Authors: Júnior Celso Jaco Faccio , Gay Neto Alfredo , Wriggers Peter
Published: November 2023

In the context of a multibody numerical environment, when aiming at representing the contact interaction between bodies one needs the inclusion of special mathematical formulations. They can be geometrically described as surface‐to‐surface or line‐to‐line contacts, for instance. The last one is usually the natural choice when addressing beam‐to‐beam contact. In the present work, a geometrically nonlinear structural formulation is combined with a beam‐to‐beam spline‐based contact formulation with a particular numerical strategy to address challenging contact problems. The numerical strategy consists of introducing criteria to evaluate, characterize and decide about the contact problem solutions. According to these criteria, a contact problem solution may be accepted, rejected, or proceed to a degeneration process (as a simplification of the original tentative for the geometric description). The main advantages of the proposed technique are the lack of special contact formulations for ill‐defined contact problems and the automatic switch between degenerated and nondegenerated scenarios. Therefore, one can naturally handle scenarios of pointwise or conformal contact, even in situations of transition between such categories along the model evolution. The adopted spline‐based formulation includes normal and tangential contact contributions. To test the proposed strategy, several pointwise and conformal contact examples are proposed.
Weight regain after total meal replacement very low‐calorie diet program with and with‐out anti‐obesity medications
Authors: Cifuentes Lizeth , Galbiati Francesca , Mahmud Hussain , Rometo David
Published: November 2023

Background

Very low‐calorie diets (VLCDs) employing total meal replacement (TMR) offer substantial short‐term weight loss. Concurrently, anti‐obesity medications (AOMs) have shown promise as adjunctive treatments when combined with VLCDs.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the impact of adjuvant AOMs on weight loss and weight regain within a comprehensive lifestyle program.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of patients with obesity enrolled in VLCD/TMR programs,  specifically the OPTIFAST program.

Results

Data from 206 patients (68% women, mean age 52.39 ± 13.05 years, BMI 41.71 ± 7.04 kg/m2) were analyzed. Of these, 139 received no AOM (AOM‐), while 67 received AOMs (AOM+). Total body weight loss percentages (TWL%) at 6 and 18 months were −17.87% ± 7.02 and −12.10% ± 11.56, respectively. There was no significant difference in 6‐month weight loss between the AOM groups. However, the AOM + group exhibited lower weight regain (3.29 kg ± 10.19 vs. 7.61 kg ± 11.96; p = 0.006) and weight regain percentage (WR%) (31.5% ± 68.7 vs. 52.16% ± 64.4; p = 0.04) compared with the AOM‐ group.

Conclusion

The findings highlighted the potential of AOMs and VLCD/TMR as effective strategies for long‐term weight management in individuals with obesity.
Spatial restrictions hinder avoidance of choke species in an Indigenous rights‐based fishery
Authors: English Philina A. , Picco Candace M. , Edwards Jessica C. , Haggarty Dana R. , Forrest Robyn E. , Anderson Sean C.
Published: November 2023

Nutrient‐rich waters along the Pacific coast of North America support diverse fish communities that have helped sustain coastal peoples for millennia. Five Nuu‐chah‐nulth First Nations on the west coast of what is now known as Vancouver Island, Canada, hold constitutional Indigenous rights to conduct a multispecies community fishery, which includes Pacific Halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis). A 2009 court decision defined the extent of these Indigenous rights to be within 9 nm of the coast, thereby not fully recognizing the knowledge and authority of the traditional leadership and raising concerns about the potential for an increase in rockfish bycatch. Yelloweye Rockfish (Sebastes ruberrimus) are a potential ‘choke’ species for this fishery because the two species occupy similar depth ranges. A choke species is one that is caught incidentally while targeting other species and, if caught in excess of its quota limits, can trigger a halt to fishing on the target species.

Guided by the insights of local Indigenous peoples and using both fishery‐independent survey and commercial longline catch data, we investigated the effects of fishing depth and spatial restriction on the relative catch weights of these two species using spatiotemporal models.

We find evidence that a confined fishing area can limit opportunities for avoiding choke species. Specifically, fishing at depths deeper than 175 m, which occur outside the court defined area (CDA), would provide more opportunities for catching halibut while avoiding Yelloweye Rockfish than are currently available within the CDA.

This Indigenous‐informed, analytical approach to a management problem is just one example of how Western scientists can engage in coproduction of knowledge with Indigenous peoples to transition from the ‘status quo’ towards a practice of ‘Two‐Eyed Seeing’ that more effectively balances Indigenous rights and species conservation.

Policy implications: Our study highlights (1) the importance of considering choke species distributions and opportunities for their avoidance when implementing spatial harvest restrictions and (2) how related analytical and management decisions can benefit from being guided by the advice of Indigenous knowledge holders.

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An investigation of structural, optical, and electrical properties of poly(3‐hexylthiophene)/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites for electronic and optoelectronic applications
Authors: Elashry M. H. , Mohamed F. , Sharmoukh W. , Hameed Talaat A. , Shalaby R. M.
Published: November 2023

Poly(3‐hexylthiophene)/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites (P3HT/rGO) were successfully prepared starting with 3‐hexylthiophene (3HT) monomer. 1H NMR was utilized to determine the regioregularity of the polymer and the degree of polymerization. The interaction of rGO was identified by employing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Besides, the XRD results revealed the crystallinity was enhanced with the increment of rGO. Upon filling with rGO, High‐resolution transmission electron high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy images manifested a fluffy morphology, while field emission scanning electron microscope demonstrated a high level of compactness and uniformity. Optical spectrophotometry (UV–Vis–NIR) was implied to determine the impact of rGO on the optical properties. It was found that the bandgap was reduced upon the addition of rGO. The temperature and frequency‐dependent electrical properties including complex permittivity, tangent loss, complex electrical modulus, impedance, and conductivity for revealing both the dipolar relaxation and charge transportation were investigated. It is revealed that P3HT/rGO has significantly higher conductivity values compared to P3HT. Further, the temperature dependence of the Dc—conductivity for pure P3HT was governed by the Vogel–Fulcher–Tamman (VFT) approach, whereas it was altered to Arrhenius upon the inclusion of rGO. The fact that the P3HT/rGO nanocomposite has a higher ε' value, lower tangent loss, and higher conductivity than the pristine P3HT, suggested these nanocomposites are more favorable than pure P3HT in optoelectronic and thermoelectric applications.
Theoretical study on oxidation mechanism of fluorescent probe, coumarin‐7‐pinacolboronate by various reactive oxygen species
Authors: Guo Yujie , Leng Yan , Liu Hongbo , Min Chun‐Gang , Ren Ai‐Min , Yin Qinhong
Published: November 2023

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as relatively stable reactive oxygen species gains considerable attention because it can regulate physiological and pathological processes. In order to better detect H2O2, fluorescent probes were widely applied. Over the past 20 years, a great deal of boronate‐based fluorescent molecular probes appeared due to relatively simple oxidation reaction. However, the reaction mechanisms that boronate derivatives were converted into fluorescent product by H2O2are poorly studied. In this paper, taking coumarin‐7‐pinacolboronate (CBU) as an example, the oxidation mechanism of boronate‐based probes by various reactive oxygen species was studied by theoretical calculations. The results found that (1) the chemical reaction mechanisms are nearly identical for the reactions of CBU with hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorous acid, peroxynitrite, and tyrosine hydroperoxide, respectively. (2) There is not radical intermediate during the reaction. (3) The different reactive oxygen species has a strong influence on rate limiting step and reaction rate.
Azodicarboxylate as a comonomer for radical polymerization to incorporate nitrogen–nitrogen single bonds into the polymer chain
Authors: Shi Qingdan , An Bang , Li Yifan
Published: November 2023

In organic synthesis, azodicarboxylates are frequently used as an aza‐dienophile and electrophilic amination agent. To create carbon–nitrogen bonds, azodicarboxylates typically react with nucleophiles or radicals. This report explores its reactivity as a co‐monomer towards radical polymerization to introduce nitrogen–nitrogen single bonds into the polymer chain. Azodicarboxylates are capable of copolymerizing with styrenic monomers to achieve linear polymers with 40% feed.
Long‐term outcomes of standardized training for caregivers of children with tracheostomies: The IStanbul PAediatric Tracheostomy (ISPAT) project
Authors: Bilgin Gulay , Unal Fusun , Yanaz Muruvvet , Baskan Azer K. I. L. I. C. , Uzuner Selcuk , Ayhan Yetkin , Onay Zeynep Reyhan , Kalyoncu Mine , Tortop Deniz M. A. V. I. , Arslan Huseyin , Oksay Sinem C. A. N. , Kostereli Ebru , Yazan Hakan , Atag Emine , Ergenekon Almala Pınar , Ekizoglu Nilay B. A. S. , Yegit Cansu Y. I. L. M. A. Z. , Gokdemir Yasemin , Uyan Zeynep Seda , Kilinc Ayse Ayzıt , Cokugras Haluk , Eralp Ela E. R. D. E. M. , Cakir Erkan , Karadag Bulent , Oktem Sedat , Karakoc Fazilet , Girit Saniye
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Children with tracheostomies are at increased risk of tracheostomy‐related complications and require extra care. Standardized training programs for caregivers can improve tracheostomy care and reduce complications. In this study, we compared caregiver knowledge and skill scores after a standardized theoretical and practical training program on tracheostomy care (IStanbul PAediatric Tracheostomy (ISPAT) project) immediately and 1 year post‐training and evaluated how this training affected the children's clinical outcomes.

Materials and Methods

We included 32 caregivers (31 children) who had received standardized training a year ago and administered the same theoretical and practical tests 1 year after training completion. We recorded tracheostomy‐related complications and the number and reasons for admission to the healthcare centers. All data just before the training and 1 year after training completion were compared.

Results

After 1 year of training completion, the median number of correct answers on the theoretical test increased to 16.5 from 12 at pretest (p < 0.001). Compared with pretest, at 1‐year post‐training practical skills assessment scores, including cannula exchange and aspiration, were significantly higher (both p < 0.001) and mucus plug, bleeding, and stoma infection reduced significantly (p = 0.002, 0.022, and 0.004, respectively). Hands‐on‐training scores were better than pretest but declined slightly at 1 year compared to testing immediately after training. Emergency admission decreased from 64.5% to 32.3% (p = 0.013). Hospitalization decreased from 61.3% to 35.5% (p = 0.039).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that caregiver training can lead to a persistent increase in knowledge and skill for as long as 1 year, as well as improvements in several measurable outcomes, although a slight decrease in scores warrants annual repetitions of the training program.
Arrangement of residence before hospital discharge for children on home‐invasive mechanical ventilation
Authors: Torrent‐Vernetta Alba , Soriano Maria Morillo , Iglesias Serrano Ignacio , Izquierdo Ana Díez , Rovira Amigo Sandra , Messa Inés Mir , Gartner Silvia , Moreno‐Galdó Antonio
Published: November 2023

Children on long‐term home mechanical ventilation are a growing population due to clinical and technological advances and the benefit for the child's quality of life. Invasive home ventilation is one of the most complex therapies offered in the home setting, requiring adequate home environment and appropriate equipment and supplies before discharge. The transition from hospital to home represents a vulnerable period that can be facilitated with an established transition plan with multidisciplinary team involvement. Readiness for home care is achieved when the patient is stable and has been transitioned from a critical care ventilator to a home mechanical ventilator. In parallel, comprehensive competency‐based training regarding the knowledge and skills needed to help families use the equipment confidently and safely. Before discharge, families should be counseled on an adequate home environment to ensure a safe transition. The residence arrangement may include physical space modifications, verifying electrical installation, or moving to another home. Durable medical equipment and supplies must be ordered, and community healthcare support arranged. Parents should receive practical advice on setting up the equipment at home and on preventive measures to minimize complications related to tracheostomy and ventilator dependence, including regular maintenance and replacement of necessary equipment. Given the overall impact of invasive ventilation on home life, a structured home care action package is essential to alleviate the burdens involved.
Quantitative analysis of the UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase transcriptome in human tissues
Authors: Zhou Lucas , Montalvo Abelardo D. , Collins Joseph M. , Wang Danxin
Published: November 2023

UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) are phase II drug metabolizing enzymes that play important roles in the detoxification of endogenous and exogenous substrates. The 22 human UGTs belong to four families (UGT1, UGT2, UGT3, and UGT8) and differ in their expression, substrate specificity, UDP‐sugar preference, and physiological functions. Differential expression/activity of the UGTs contributes to interperson variability in drug responses and toxicity, hormone homeostasis, and disease/cancer risks. However, in normal tissues, the tissue‐specific expression profiles and transcriptional regulation of the UGTs are still not fully understood. In this study, we comprehensively analyzed the transcriptome of 22 UGTs in 54 human tissues/regions using RNAseq data from GTEx. We then validated the findings in the liver and small intestine samples using real‐time PCR. Our results showed large interindividual variability across tissues in the expression of each UGT and the overall composition of UGT pools, consisting of different UGTs and their splice isoforms. Our results also revealed coexpression of the UGTs, Cytochrome P450s, and many transcription factors in the liver, suggesting potential coregulation or functional coordination. Our results provide the groundwork for future studies to detail further the regulation of the expression and activity of the UGTs.
Dynamic simulation‐based quantitative hazard and operability process hazard analysis for a hydrocracking unit
Authors: Yi Jialin , Wang Haiyan , Zhang Jiguo
Published: November 2023

A hydrocracking unit operates at high temperature, high pressure, and near hydrogen, which can be susceptible to fire and explosions accidents due to equipment failure. Therefore, it is essential to identify and analyze the risk factors. The dynamic simulation‐based quantitative hazard and operability (HAZOP) study can effectively and purposefully quantify deviations and consequences as well as reduce the redundancy of safety analysis results. Furthermore, the time parameter is introduced through dynamic simulation, which reflects more realistically the dynamic characteristics of the system in the event of a fault. In this paper, we take the process flow of the absorbing‐stabilizing system of an actual hydrocracking unit in a refining company as an example and carry out steady‐state and dynamic simulations for the deviations of pressure, temperature, and liquid level with the help of Aspen Plus V11 and Aspen Plus Dynamics V11 software to complete the dynamic simulation‐based quantitative HAZOP analysis.