bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of red clover and sainfoin silages on the performance, nutrient utilization and milk fatty acids profile of ruminants: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Irawan Agung , Jayanegara Anuraga , Niderkorn Vincent
Published: July 2023

Inclusion of plants rich in secondary metabolites into grass ensiling offers multiple benefits for ruminants, from improving productive performance to health‐promoting effects as well as helping to reduce environment pollution. The present meta‐analysis summarizes the dietary inclusion levels of red clover silage (RCS) and sainfoin silages (SS) as well as the types of silages fed to dairy cows and small ruminants. A total of 37 in vivo studies (26 articles in dairy cows and 11 articles in small ruminants) were aggregated after being strictly selected using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A mixed model methodology was used to examine our objectives. This method declares the subject 'study' as random effects and 'inclusion level' as fixed effects. Results indicated that RCS proportion was not associated with nutrient digestibility except for a quadratic effect (p < 0.05) on neutral detergent fibre digestibility. Higher RCS inclusion linearly increased (p < 0.05) nitrogen (N) intake but had no effect on dairy cows' production. Increasing RCS proportion altered milk fatty acid profile where the concentration of conjugated linolenic acid (CLA), C18:3 α‐linolenic acid (ALA) and C18:0 linearly increased (p < 0.01). In small ruminants, SS proportion had no relationship with nutrient digestibility, N metabolism and growth performance (p > 0.05). However, a combination of dietary RCS + SS resulted in significantly higher (p < 0.05) CLA and ALA concentration in cow milk and average daily gain (ADG) in small ruminants compared to diets composed from either grass silage or alfalfa silage. Altogether, this meta‐analysis highlights the synergistic effects of a combination of SS + RCS inclusion in improving milk fatty acids (FA) profile of dairy cows and ADG of small ruminants.
An Experimental Comparison of Two Emotion‐Induction Methods and the Role of Emotion in Applying Decision Rules
Authors: Pathak Smriti , Srivastava Kailash BL , Dewangan Roshan Lal
Published: July 2023

Very little attention has been given to the influence of emotions on the application of decision rules (DRs). Research in decision‐making has largely pointed out the benefits of positive emotions; however, very few studies have compared emotion‐induction methods (EIMs) for their efficacy, which makes it difficult to choose a relatively better method among them for a particular purpose. We aim to study the effectiveness and comparison of two EIMs, autobiographical recollection and feedback methods, on the elicitation of positive and negative emotions in an experimental environment to see the influence of positive and negative emotions on the application of DRs and to see whether EIMs have any influence on the application of DRs. Three hundred and twenty‐four students were randomly divided in equal numbers to one of the EIMs with the intention to elicit either positive or negative emotion. The Positive Affectivity and Negative Affectivity Schedule was administered before and after EIMs. Subsequently, complete data from 300 students were analyzed. Analysis of variance results suggest both EIMs were effective in emotion induction and the negative emotional state was related to applying decision rules in problem‐solving tasks.
Optimizing the dosing of vancomycin in patients receiving intermittent haemodialysis with low‐flux filters, and the potential impact of dosing software
Authors: Stefani Maurizio , Musgrave Kirsty , Sevastos Jacob , Penny Mark , Day Richard O. , Roberts Darren M.
Published: July 2023

Aim

Iterative approaches to vancomycin dosing (e.g., dosing when trough concentrations <15–20 mg/L) can be inadequate. Computer‐guided dosing may be superior but has not been evaluated in patients with kidney failure receiving replacement therapy. We evaluated vancomycin concentrations using a hospital protocol and a pharmacokinetic software. We measured vancomycin clearance by the FX8 low‐flux filter because data are absent.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed records of adults with kidney failure requiring replacement therapy receiving vancomycin and dialysed with the FX8 low‐flux filter, and calculated the proportion of pre‐dialysis concentrations that were within, above or below a specified range. One and two‐compartment models in the pharmacokinetic software were assessed by computing mean prediction error (MPE) and root mean square error (RMSE) of observed versus predicted concentrations. Vancomycin extracorporeal clearance was prospectively determined using the extraction method.

Results

In 24 patients (34 courses; 139 paired observed and predicted concentrations), 62/139 (45%) pre‐dialysis concentrations were 15–25 mg/L, 29/139 (21%) were above, and 48/139 (35%) were below. MPE for the one‐compartment model was −0.2 mg/L, RMSE 5.3 mg/L. MPE for the two‐compartment model was 2.0 mg/L, RMSE 5.6 mg/L. Excluding the first paired concentrations, the subsequent MPE (n = 105) using one‐compartment model was −0.5 mg/L, RMSE 5.6 mg/L. The MPE for the two‐compartment model was 2.1 mg/L, RMSE 5.8 mg/L. The median extracorporeal clearance was 70.7 mL/min (range: 10.3–130.3; n = 22).

Conclusions

Vancomycin dosing was suboptimal and the pharmacokinetic software was not sufficiently predictive. These may improve with a loading dose. The substantial removal of vancomycin by low‐flux filters is not accounted for by the models tested.
Prevalence and risk factors of the use of physical restraint and impact of a decision support tool: A before‐and‐after study
Authors: Dauvergne Jérôme E. , Ferey Kim , Croizard Véronique , Chauvin Morgan , Mainguy Nolwenn , Mathelier Noeline , Jehanno Anaëlle , Maugars Nadège , Badre Gaëtan , Maze Françoise , Chartier Marie , Vastral Servane , Epain Graziella , Baudiniere Lucie , Ronceray Mathilde , Lebidan Mathias , Flattres Delphine , Ambrosi Xavier ,   for the ATLANREA Group
Published: July 2023

Background

Physical restraint is frequently used in intensive care units to prevent patients' life‐threatening removal of indwelling devices. In France, their use is poorly studied. Therefore, to evaluate the need for physical restraint, we have designed and implemented a decision support tool.

Aims

Besides describing the prevalence of physical restraint use, this study aimed to assess whether the implementation of a nursing decision support tool had an impact on restraint use and to identify the factors associated with this use.

Study Design

A large observational, multicentre study with a repeated one‐day point prevalence design was conducted. All adult patients hospitalized in intensive care units were eligible for this study. Two study periods were planned: before (control period) and after (intervention period) the deployment of the decision support tool and staff training. A multilevel model was performed to consider the centre effect.

Results

During the control period, 786 patients were included, and 510 were in the intervention period. The prevalence of physical restraint was 28% (95% CI: 25.1%–31.4%) and 25% (95% CI: 21.5%–29.1%) respectively (χ2 = 1.35; p = .24). Restraint was applied by the nurse and/or nurse assistant in 96% of cases in both periods, mainly to wrists (89% vs. 83%, p = .14). The patient‐to‐nurse ratio was significantly lower in the intervention period (1:3.0 ± 1 vs. 1:2.7 ± 0.7, p < .001). In multivariable analysis, mechanical ventilation was associated with physical restraint (aOR [95% CI] = 6.0 [3.5–10.2]).

Conclusion

The prevalence of physical restraint use in France was lower than expected. In our study, the decision support tool did not substantially impact physical restraint use. Hence, the decision support tool would deserve to be assessed in a randomized controlled trial.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The decision to physically restrain a patient could be protocolised and managed by critical care nurses. A regular evaluation of the level of sedation could allow the most deeply sedated patients to be exempted from physical restraint.
“Spiders […] stringing webs through her head”: Representations of memory in Anthony Doerr's “Memory Wall” and Meredith Westgate's The Shimmering State
Authors: Front Sonia
Published: July 2023

Although science has demonstrated that memories are flexible mental constructions, rather than a stable record of the past preserved in an internal archive, fiction keeps fantasizing about technologies that will locate memories in the brain and edit or download them into an external medium. Anthony Doerr's short story “Memory Wall” (2010) and Meredith Westgate's novel The Shimmering State (2021) continue this preoccupation. They portray treatments for memory‐related diseases that involve downloading memories into a portable medium so that they could be reexperienced, which makes them susceptible to commodification as prosthetic memories. To represent memory, the two texts blend neuroscientific explanations with the traditional conceptualizations of an archive and computer, subverting them in the process. The protagonists' experiences suggest the impossibility of the past's total preservation as a linear archive and explode the neuroscientific view of the self and memory as cerebral properties, highlighting instead the complex interchanges between body, mind, brain, and emotion, involved in the production of memory. A new model of memory informed by prosthetic memories violates privatized interiority and dislodges the temporal coordinates of the past, which leads to the ungrounding of subjectivity. This results in an ontological shift whereby memory is increasingly severed from personal identity.
“Frequency of fatal and recurrent anaphylaxis due to COW'S milk: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies”
Authors: Pérez‐Codesido Sabela , Grifol‐Clar Eulalia , Petrone Marianela Brandoni , Malumbres Marta Goyanes , Garban Patricia Andrade , Tejedor‐Alonso Miguel A.
Published: July 2023

Cow's milk allergy can result in anaphylactic reactions. The estimated prevalence of cow's milk allergy in developed countries ranges from 0.5% to 3% at age 1 year. Our objective was to perform a systematic review and, if possible, a meta‐analysis to assess the frequency of fatal and recurrent anaphylaxis induced by cow's milk. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Web of Science for studies that had assessed fatal and recurrent anaphylaxis induced by cow's milk for the population of a country or at least an administrative region. Our review included cohort, cross‐sectional, and registry studies that had assessed the incidence or prevalence of recurrent anaphylaxis or the incidence of fatal anaphylaxis due to cow's milk. The pooled prevalence of recurrence (PR) for at least an episode of anaphylaxis was 26.98% (3.85–189.1). Teymourpour et al (Iran) reported the highest PR (53.10%); the two studies with the lowest PR were from France (5.2 and 0.42, respectively) (p < .01). Nine studies on fatal anaphylaxis were selected (41 deaths) and found to be highly heterogeneous (I2 = 75.9%). Levy et al and Bassagio et al reported the highest incidence rate (IR 0.15 and 0.6 deaths per million persons‐year). The PR of anaphylaxis was approximately one quarter of patients with anaphylaxis due to cow's milk, while deaths from anaphylaxis caused by cow's milk were very rare, although some studies report rates as high as 15 times the lowest IR.
Regulative rules: A distinctive normative kind
Authors: Reiland Indrek
Published: July 2023

What are rules? In this paper I develop a view of regulative rules which takes them to be a distinctive normative kind occupying a middle ground between orders and normative truths. The paradigmatic cases of regulative rules that I'm interested in are social rules like rules of etiquette and legal rules like traffic rules. On the view I'll propose, a rule is a general normative content that is in force due to human activity: enactment by an authority or acceptance by a community. Rules are unlike orders in being not necessarily communicative, not an expression's of the giver's will, not evaluable for sincerity, and in that they have propositional content. And they're unlike normative truths in that they're themselves not even truth‐evaluable (though their contents are). This is because rules qua things that are in force are not like constatives which have a mind to world direction of fit, but more like performatives. Furthermore, they differ from normative truths in that their normativity is isolated from their background justification and is therefore not dependent on contributory notions like reasons coming together in a weighing explanation. As such, they occupy a middle ground between orders and normative truths, much like in H. L. A. Hart's opinion law occupies a middle ground between “coercion” and “morality” (Hart 1961/1994). I also illustrate the virtues of this understanding of rules by showing how proper appreciation of how they differ from normative truths helps us defuse a common objection to Hart's practice theory of rules.
Different techniques reveal the difference of community structure and function of fungi from root and rhizosphere of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge
Authors: Li C. , Wu Y. , Li L. , Zhao C. , Li B. , Wu Y. , Wang H. , Yan Z.
Published: July 2023

Fungi have essential functions in plant health and performance. However, the plant‐associated functions of many cultured fungi have not been established in detail.

Here, the fungal species diversity in Salvia miltiorrhiza roots and rhizosphere was assessed for the first time using culturomics and high‐throughput sequencing. We present a comprehensive functional metagenomic analysis of these fungi and verified activity of cellulase and chitinase predicted in the metagenomic analysis.

We first collected and cultured fungi from the root and rhizosphere of S. miltiorrhiza. We found 92 species across 37 families and five phyla, with Ascomycota being dominant. Many rDNA internal transcribed spacer sequences could not be assigned to lower taxonomic levels. There were 19 genera of endophytic fungi and 37 genera of rhizosphere fungi. The culturomics approach had lower taxonomic diversity than high‐throughput sequencing, but some fungi were only found in cultures. Structural analyses indicated that the dominant species differed in cultured and non‐cultured samples at other levels, apart from the phylum level. Functional analysis mapped 223 carbohydrate enzyme families and 393 pathways in the CAZy and KEGG databases, respectively. The most abundant families were glycoside hydrolases and those involved in carbohydrate metabolism. As predicted by metagenomics, we experimentally verified cellulase and chitinase activity for 29 and 74 fungi, respectively.

We provide the first evidence of biomass recycling by fungi that are associated with plants. Culturing is essential to reveal the hidden microbial community and critical functions in plant–microbe interactions.
The role of entrepreneurial ecosystems in technological and social challenges
Authors: Ferreira João J. M. , Grigoroudis Evangelos , Carayannis Elias G. , Dooley Lawrence
Published: July 2023

Although there is a common consensus about what an entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) is, the question of how EE dynamics interact with technology and social change remains unclear. In this introductory article to our Special Issue on the role of EE in technological and social challenges, we systematically review the corpus of literature in this field of research. Leveraging bibliometric techniques, we present a review of the most influential papers and their key research topics, synthesized across four thematic groups: (i) university‐based EE, (ii) entrepreneurial innovation ecosystems, (iii) dynamic EE models, and (iv) digital entrepreneurship ecosystems. Within this thematic frame, a synopsis of the papers presented within the special issue is provided, highlighting their research theme addressed, theoretical grounding, and methods leveraged. We conclude this article by identifying potential future research questions that may be advantageous trajectories for the EE research community to address when advancing the field in the coming years.
Radiography—An etymological and semantic concept analysis from the perspective of radiographic science
Authors: Lundgren Solveig M. , Lundén Maud
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Concepts are cornerstones in science, and their determination is a prerequisite for understanding their substance and meaning. Radiography as a concept is not straightforward nor simple to understand, and there are different interpretations depending on the scientific perspective. To develop truthful knowledge of radiography from the perspective of the discipline, a determination of the subject and substance of radiography is required and thereby is a precursor for theory development. The aim of this study was to investigate the etymological and semantic meaning of radiography from the radiography science perspective.

Methods

An etymological and semantic analysis has been applied according to Koort and Eriksson's theoretical model. Dictionaries published between 2004 and 2021 were used.

Results

The findings show that etymologically, radiography is formed by compounding the words ‘radio’ and ‘graphy’, originating historically from Latin and Greek. The semantic analysis revealed that the substance of radiography consisted of four characteristics that are the basic substance of radiography. The characteristics were X‐ray and radiation, human beings—opaque objects, process including an act and art and images.

Conclusion

This study clarifies the substance and meaning of radiography as a subject from the perspective of radiography science. The subject and substance consisted of the four basic characteristics that all are vital and required to understand the concept of radiography. The characteristics revealed that radiography science is based on scientific knowledge and carrier of properties of meaning that provide a fundamental understanding of radiography science.

Implications for Practice

Investigating the subject, substance and meaning of radiography as a concept can become the base for further theoretical, contextual and practical understanding and support in the development of theory in radiography science.
Semilongitudinal Research on Changes in Seniors’ Motivation for Education in the Context of Third Age Universities
Authors: Škoda Jiří , Doulík Pavel , Kykalová Sandra
Published: July 2023

The article focuses on the comparison of differences in the results of research surveys conducted in 2011 and 2021, which were aimed at the analysis of various aspects related to the interest-related education of seniors at universities of the third age (U3A). Both studies focused on motivation to study, preferred forms and methods of education and the content of individual courses implemented within the U3A at the J. E. Purkyně University in Ústí nad Labem. In 2011 N = 154 respondents took part in the survey, in 2021 N = 70 respondents (this lower number was due to restrictions and limitations of U3A education related to the covid-19 pandemic ). The results show quite significant differences, particularly in the preference for teaching methods (e.g. a significant increase in preference for e-learning) and differences in the content of courses (e.g. an increase in preference for courses focusing on foreign languages). There has also been a change in the motivation of U3A learners, which has been particularly evident in the strengthening of the social aspects of learning.
Formal and Non-Formal Education of Adult Convicts - Current Status, Functions and Problem Areas in Slovakia
Authors: Temiaková Dominika , Lukáčová Silvia , Lukáč Marek
Published: July 2023

Correctional education is a part of penitentiary treatment in most countries; it takes place in the form of formal and non-formal education, and cultural and edifying activities. However, where strong restrictive measures limit empirical research in this area, as in Slovakia, there is very little knowledge about the process and results of correctional education. The main goal of this study is to try to answer the question of whether the currently set education of convicts is oriented towards desirable personality changes of convicts or rather brings benefits to the penitentiary system. We decided to answer this question on the basis of the authors’ recent research, which was published in the form of a study and a monograph and brought new knowledge about the informal education of convicted women and the perspectives of teachers who educate convicts in secondary education in prison. At the same time, the study offers an overview of the nature of the education of convicts in Slovakia.
Quotients of S2×S2$S^2\times {S^2}$
Authors: Hambleton Ian , Hillman Jonathan A.
Published: July 2023

We consider closed topological 4‐manifolds with universal cover and Euler characteristic . All such manifolds with are homotopy equivalent. In this case, we show that there are four homeomorphism types, and propose a candidate for a smooth example that is not homeomorphic to the geometric quotient. If , we show that there are three homotopy types (and between 6 and 24 homeomorphism types).
Scaling Effect of Dry Adhesion for Microfibrils and Transition Size to Flaw Insensitivity
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Li Xiaoyan
Published: July 2023

The mechanics of detachment (e.g., a cylindrical fibril separating from a dissimilar substrate) has been treated in the perspectives of contact mechanics and fracture mechanics theory along with numerical simulations, but systematic experimental studies on the adhesion of an individual microfibril is still scarce. In this work, we conducted a detailed experiment on the adhesion tests of individual cylindrical microfibrils, within a large range of varying diameters from 4 to 400 μm, made of three different polyurethanes with moduli among ∼1–40 MPa. We confirmed the scaling effect of an individual microfibril, i.e., the adhesion σad of the individual fibril scales with fibrillar diameters D with an exponent of ∼ −0.4 to −0.45. As the fibrillar diameter is reduced below 10 μm, the adhesion becomes unchanged and size insensitive. This result is in good agreement with the theoretical predictions. Furthermore, the effects of the Young’s modulus and retraction rates during the adhesion tests on the adhesion strength were also investigated. Our experimental work will provide a guide for the optimal design of the micron-scale surfaces with improved adhesion.
An Open-Source Olfactory Display to Add the Sense of Smell to the Metaverse
Authors: Lukasiewicz Marek S. , Rossoni Marco , Spadoni Elena , Dozio Nicolò , Carulli Marina , Ferrise Francesco , Bordegoni Monica
Published: July 2023

As the Metaverse gains popularity due to its use in various industries, so does the desire to take advantage of all its potential. While visual and audio technologies already provide access to the Metaverse, there is increasing interest in haptic and olfactory technologies, which are less developed and have been studied for a shorter time. Currently, there are limited options for users to experience the olfactory aspect of the Metaverse. This paper introduces an open-source kit that makes it simple to add the sense of smell to the Metaverse. The solution is modular, allowing for the simultaneous use of multiple odors and compatibility with both desktop and wearable applications. The details of the solution, including its technical specifications, are outlined to enable potential users to utilize, test, and enhance the project and make it available to the scientific community.
Determination of MIC Quality Control Ranges for Ceftibuten-Avibactam (Fixed 4 μg/mL), a Novel β-Lactam/β-Lactamase Inhibitor Combination
Authors: Huband Michael D. , Fedler Kelley A. , Sader Helio S. , Stone Gregory G. , Castanheira Mariana
Published: July 2023

Ceftibuten/ARX-1796 (avibactam prodrug) is a novel oral antibacterial combination in early clinical development for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI) including pyelonephritis. ARX-1796 is the novel avibactam prodrug being combined with ceftibuten for oral dosing that is converted to active avibactam
in vivo
.
Characterization of the Environmental Plasmidome of the Red Sea
Authors: Androsiuk Lucy , Shay Tal , Tal Shay
Published: July 2023

Marine plasmids are understudied and hence underrepresented in databases. Plasmid functional annotation and characterization is complicated but, if successful, may provide a pool of novel genes and unknown functions. Newly discovered plasmids and their functional repertoire are potentially valuable tools for predicting the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance, providing vectors for molecular cloning and an understanding of plasmid-bacterial interactions in various environments.
Progressively elevated geothermal gradients for Miocene metamorphism in the Himalayan orogen
Authors: Ji Min , Gao Xiao-Ying , Zheng Yong-Fei
Published: July 2023

The property of regional metamorphism at convergent plate margins is substantially related to the change of geothermal gradients, resulting in different types of crustal reworking through metamorphic dehydration and partial melting. The relationship between crustal metamorphism and thermal evolution of collisional orogens can thus be deciphered by investigating the change of metamorphic thermobaric ratios in both space and time. This is illustrated by a combined study of field observation, petrographic observation, whole-rock and mineral major and trace elements, laser ablation−inductively coupled plasma−mass spectrometry zircon and monazite U-Th-Pb isotopes and trace elements, and phase equilibrium modeling of granitic gneisses from the Cona area, southern Tibet, in the Himalayan orogen. The results reveal variations in spatial level, protolith age, petrological composition, and metamorphic pressure−temperature−time path along an N-S transect across the Higher Himalayas. On this basis, three types of granitic gneisses were identified for the Miocene metamorphism. Type I gneiss was formed at 16.2−14.7 Ma under upper amphibolite facies conditions of 720−735 °C and 0.77−0.82 GPa, Type II gneisses were formed at 18.3−14.3 Ma under granulite facies conditions of 765−795 °C and 0.99−1.06 GPa, and Type III gneisses were formed at 21.8−13.0 Ma under high-pressure granulite facies conditions of 850−875 °C and 1.40−1.45 GPa. These rocks underwent anatectic metamorphism at lower to upper crustal depths from 22 to 13 Ma, and their metamorphic thermobaric ratios increase from 586−803 °C/GPa at 22−18 Ma to 878−967 °C/GPa and finally to 1071 °C/GPa at 15−13 Ma. This increase corresponds to a progressive increase in metamorphic geothermal gradients from 16.1−22.0 °C/km to 24.1−26.5 °C/km and finally to 29.4 °C/km. Therefore, the crustal rocks in the Himalayan orogen experienced the three types of regional metamorphism at the three different geothermal gradients in the Miocene. The progressively elevated geothermal gradients are attributed to continental rifting due to asthenospheric upwelling consequential to thinning of the lithospheric mantle in the collisional orogen. This has important implications for the tectonic evolution of collisional orogens in the post-collisional stage.
Relationship between the aortic root and the atrioventricular conduction axis
Authors: Anderson Robert H , Spicer Diane E , Sánchez-Quintana Damián , Macias Yolanda , Kapadia Samir , Tretter Justin T
Published: July 2023

Damage to the atrioventricular conduction axis continues to be a problem subsequent to transcatheter implantation of aortic valvar prostheses. Accurate knowledge of the precise relationships of the conduction axis relative to the aortic root could greatly reduce the risk of such problems. Current diagrams highlighting these relationships rightly focus on the membranous septum. The current depictions, however, overlook a potentially important relationship between the superior fascicle of the left bundle branch and the nadir of the semilunar hinge of the right coronary leaflet of the aortic valve. Recent histological investigations demonstrate, in many instances, a very close relationship between the left bundle branch and the right coronary aortic leaflet. The findings also highlight two additional variable features, which can be revealed by clinical imaging. The first of these is the extent of an inferoseptal recess of the left ventricular outflow tract. The second is the extent of rotation of the aortic root within the base of the left ventricle. Much more of the conduction axis is within the confines of the circumference of the outflow tract when the root is rotated in counterclockwise fashion as assessed from the perspective of the imager, with this finding itself associated with a much narrower inferoseptal recess. A clear understanding of the marked variability within the aortic root is key to avoiding future problems with atrioventricular conduction.
Quality of life in bladder cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rafiei Sima , Kheradkhah Golnaz , Kotronoulas Grigorios , Doustmehraban Maryam , Shafiei Farnoosh , Masoumi Maryam , Parnian Elaheh , Nosrati Sanjabad Elmira , Ghashghaee Ahmad
Published: July 2023

Background

Worldwide, bladder cancer (BC) has been regarded as the tenth most common cancer with more than 573 000 new cases in 2020. This research presents a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies examining the quality of life (QOL) among patients with BC.

Methods

The study was designed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A total of 11 articles were extracted from a literature search conducted through electronic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus and Web of Science from the onset of January 2000 to June 2022. A random-effects model was applied to estimate the pooled QOL in patients with BC.

Results

We included 11 primary studies in the final meta-analysis. Based on random effect analysis, total score of QOL was 53.92 (95% CI: 47.84 to 60) representing a moderate level of QOL among patients. Based on the analysis, it was found that physical items with a score of 49.82 (95% CI: 45.8 to 53.84) had a lower score in comparison with mental items at a score of 52 (95% CI: 49.54 to 54.47). In addition, the item of role limitations due to physical health with a score of 46.26 (95% CI: 20.11 to 72.41), and social functioning with a score of 46.25 (95% CI: 18.85 to 73.66), respectively, had the lowest QOL in patients with BC.

Conclusion

Generally, the QOL among patients with BC was in a moderate condition, which can be improved through determining the influencing factors on QOL as a crucial strategy to define future treatment procedures in an effective manner.
A comprehensive functional form of the optimal harvest control rule for multiple fishery management objectives
Authors: Yagi Tatsunori , Yamakawa Takashi
Published: July 2023

For many of the world's fisheries, harvest control rules (HCRs) are the main tools for supporting decision-making. We previously clarified the optimal shape of the HCR to achieve multiple fisheries management objectives (maximising average catch, reducing variation in yields, and avoiding stock collapse) and ensure robustness to estimation errors in biomass by numerically estimating the optimal values of the 21 biological reference points (BRPs) comprised in the HCR. However, for actual management, a simple but comprehensive functional form to emulate the optimal HCR is desirable, as numerical HCR optimisation with many BRPs is time-consuming. Here, we introduced three objective utility functions ( U1– U3) representing HCR performance for composite management objectives: mean–variance utility functions, where the performance indicator for variation in yields is the standard deviation ( U1) or the annual average variance ( U2) of yields, and the constant relative risk aversion utility function ( U3). We derived two equations to emulate the optimal HCRs with three adjusting parameters corresponding to the management objectives and different magnitudes of estimation errors. These equations will help stakeholders discuss desired management strategies by showing expected catch and risk by adjusting the parameter values.
Using the Framework Method to support collaborative and cross-cultural qualitative data analysis
Authors: Cadman Rachael , Dicker Megan , Denniston Mary , McCarney Paul , Laing Rodd , Oliver Eric C.J. , Bailey Megan
Published: July 2023

With Inuit organizations leading the way, there is a growing opportunity for meaningful partnerships between Inuit and visiting researchers to create impactful research programs and policy initiatives that reflect Inuit priorities. Collaborative research methods, where Inuit and visiting researchers work together to meet community needs, offer a potential avenue for braiding knowledge systems, and therefore have become an increasingly popular way to conduct research in the Arctic. In this paper, we outline our use of the data analysis method known as the “Framework Method” during the Imappivut Knowledge Study, a participatory mapping project led by the Nunatsiavut Government. We reflect on both the method's applicability and its usefulness for future research conducted in collaboration between Inuit and non-Inuit researchers. We find that the Framework Method allowed us to work in an iterative and adaptive manner, resulting in comprehensive findings for marine spatial planning. The method also supported data sovereignty for the Nunatsiavut Government. The Framework Method can be used to allow Nunatsiavut greater control over the data internally and self-determining access to external researchers.
Bifurcation Behavior Analysis and Stability Region Discrimination for Series-Parallel Architecture Electric Energy Router
Authors: Zhao Xiaojun , Zhang Zehui , Zhang Chunjiang , Wang Xiaohuan , Guo Zhongnan
Published: July 2023

Electric energy routers (EERs) can effectively deal with the energy management issues caused by the access of multi-sources and multi-loads. Different from the energy transmission form in the existing series architecture EER (SA-EER) for low-voltage distribution networks, a new series-parallel architecture EER (SPA-EER) has the advantages of high-power transmission capability and reactive power flexible operation. However, if controller parameters change beyond their critical stability boundaries, SPA-EER will produce slow- and fast-scale bifurcation behaviors, which are manifested as low- and high-frequency oscillations of port voltages or port currents in varying degrees. To avoid the system instability caused by controller parameter changes, how to discriminate the stability regions of controller parameters for SPA-EER is a key research content in this paper. To this end, the stroboscopic mapping discrete model of SPA-EER system is first established, and system bifurcation behaviors are analyzed based on bifurcation theory. Furthermore, the critical stability boundaries of controller parameters are discriminated by using Jacobian matrix, root locus and bifurcation diagram. After that, a time delay feedback control (TDFC) is employed to suppress system bifurcation behaviors. Finally, the correctness of bifurcation analysis and the effectiveness of TDFC are verified by a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) experimental platform.
2D Linear CA with Mixing Boundary Conditions and Reversibility
Authors: Jumaniyozov Doston , Casas José Manuel , González Manuel Ladra , Omirov Bakhrom , Redjepov Shovkat
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we consider two-dimensional cellular automata (CA) with the von Neumann neighborhood. We study the characterization of 2D linear cellular automata defined by the von Neumann neighborhood with new type of boundary conditions over the field [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, we investigate the rule matrices of 2D von Neumann CA by applying the group of permutations [Formula: see text]. Moreover, the algorithm for computing the rank of rule matrices is given. Finally, necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of Garden of Eden configurations for considered two-dimensional cellular automata are obtained.
Bifurcations and Exact Traveling Wave Solutions of the Generalized Serre–Green–Naghdi System with Weak Coriolis Effect and Surface Tension
Authors: Han Maoan , Chen Guanrong , Li Jibin
Published: July 2023

For the generalized Serre–Green–Naghdi system with weak Coriolis effect and surface tension, by using the dynamical system methods and singular traveling wave theory developed by Li and Chen [2007] to its associate traveling wave system, under different parameter conditions, all possible bounded solutions (solitary wave solutions, periodic wave solutions, peakons, periodic peakons as well as compacton solution families) are obtained. Exact explicit parametric representations are given.
Classification of Imbalanced Data Using SMOTE and AutoEncoder Based Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Alex Suja A. , Nayahi J. Jesu Vedha
Published: July 2023

The imbalanced data classification is a challenging issue in many domains including medical intelligent diagnosis and fraudulent transaction analysis. The performance of the conventional classifier degrades due to the imbalanced class distribution of the training data set. Recently, machine learning and deep learning techniques are used for imbalanced data classification. Data preprocessing approaches are also suitable for handling class imbalance problem. Data augmentation is one of the preprocessing techniques used to handle skewed class distribution. Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) is a promising class balancing approach and it generates noise during the process of creation of synthetic samples. In this paper, AutoEncoder is used as a noise reduction technique and it reduces the noise generated by SMOTE. Further, Deep one-dimensional Convolutional Neural Network is used for classification. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated and compared with existing approaches using different metrics such as Precision, Recall, Accuracy, Area Under the Curve and Geometric Mean. Ten data sets with imbalance ratio ranging from 1.17 to 577.87 and data set size ranging from 303 to 284807 instances are used in the experiments. The different imbalanced data sets used are Heart-Disease, Mammography, Pima Indian diabetes, Adult, Oil-Spill, Phoneme, Creditcard, BankNoteAuthentication, Balance scale weight & distance database and Yeast data sets. The proposed method shows an accuracy of 96.1%, 96.5%, 87.7%, 87.3%, 95%, 92.4%, 98.4%, 86.1%, 94% and 95.9% respectively. The results suggest that this method outperforms other deep learning methods and machine learning methods with respect to G-mean and other performance metrics.
Design Principles for Noncentrosymmetric Materials
Authors: Huai Xudong , Tran Thao T.
Published: July 2023

Noncentrosymmetric (NCS) materials feature an exciting array of functionalities such as nonlinear optical (NLO) responses and topological spin textures (skyrmions). While NLO materials and magnetic skyrmions display two different sets of physical properties, their design strategies are deeply connected in terms of atomic-scale precision, structural customization, and electronic tunability. Despite impressive progress in studying these systems separately, a joint road map for navigating the chemical principles for NCS materials remains elusive. This review unites two subtopics of NCS systems, NLO materials and magnetic skyrmions, offering a multifaceted narrative of how to translate the often-abstract fundamentals to the targeted functionalities while inviting innovative approaches from the community. We outline the design principles central to the desired properties by exemplifying relevant examples in the field. We supplement materials chemistry with pertinent electronic structures to demonstrate the power of the fundamentals to create systems integration relevant to foreseeable societal impacts in frequency-doubling instrumentation and spin-based electronics.
A Raman Study on the Speciation of Different Metal Ions in an AlCl3–Based Ionic Liquid
Authors: Böttcher Rene , Mai Sebastian , Borisenko Natalia , Ispas Adriana , Bund Andreas , Endres Frank
Published: July 2023

The speciation of Cr, Zn and Sn in AlCl3/1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride containing CrCl2, ZnCl2 and SnCl2, respectively, has been studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV), Raman spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Addition of the respective metal salt causes the current waves in the CV to decrease, indicating a reaction of the metal salts with Al2Cl7
−. Compared to the neat electrolyte, the Raman peaks of Al2Cl7
− decrease while the AlCl4
− peak increases in intensity, broadens and shifts towards lower wavenumbers. Calculated wavenumbers of metal complexes [Me(AlCl4)3]− reflect these observations. DFT calculations of the Gibbs free energies of formation, solvation and reaction support the formation of the proposed complexes. The central ions are coordinated by three bidentate AlCl4
− ligands that are arranged planar–trigonally. Due to the occupied Sn–5s orbital, repulsive forces cause a trigonal–pyramidal geometry in case of the Sn complex. Based on the similarities in the experimental observations and the orbital configuration of Zn2+ compared to Cr2+, the spontaneous formation of the species [Cr(AlCl4)3]− can be assumed.
FIGURE 2 from Targeting the Clear Cell Sarcoma Oncogenic Driver Fusion Gene EWSR1::ATF1 by HDAC Inhibition
Authors: Mae Hirokazu , Outani Hidetatsu , Imura Yoshinori , Chijimatsu Ryota , Inoue Akitomo , Kotani Yuki , Yasuda Naohiro , Nakai Sho , Nakai Takaaki , Takenaka Satoshi , Okada Seiji
Published: July 2023

Vorinostat regulates the expression of EWSR1::ATF1.A and B, Ten terms with the lowest P values in GO analysis are listed in FC order. The most significantly upregulated (A) and downregulated (B) biological terms are indicated. C, CCS cells were treated with 0, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0, or 10.0 μmol/L vorinostat for 24 hours. EWSR1::ATF1 and MITF protein expression levels were estimated via Western blotting. D, CCS cells were treated with 0, 0.3, or 3.0 μmol/L vorinostat for 24 hours. EWSR1::ATF1 mRNA levels in CCS cells were quantified using qRT-PCR (normalized to GAPDH; n = 3). E, Tumor tissues were collected from SU-CCS1 and Hewga-CCS xenografts at the endpoint. EWSR1::ATF1 protein expression levels were analyzed via Western blotting (n = 3). Data in D, means ± SDs. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01 (Student t tests).
Data from Targeting the Clear Cell Sarcoma Oncogenic Driver Fusion Gene EWSR1::ATF1 by HDAC Inhibition
Authors: Mae Hirokazu , Outani Hidetatsu , Imura Yoshinori , Chijimatsu Ryota , Inoue Akitomo , Kotani Yuki , Yasuda Naohiro , Nakai Sho , Nakai Takaaki , Takenaka Satoshi , Okada Seiji
Published: July 2023

Clear cell sarcoma (CCS), a rare but extremely aggressive malignancy with no effective therapy, is characterized by the expression of the oncogenic driver fusion gene EWSR1::ATF1. In this study, we performed a high-throughput drug screening, finding that the histone deacetylase inhibitor vorinostat exerted an antiproliferation effect with the reduced expression of EWSR1::ATF1. We expected the reduced expression of EWSR1::ATF1 to be due to the alteration of chromatin accessibility; however, assay for transposase-accessible chromatin using sequencing and a cleavage under targets and release using nuclease assay revealed that chromatin structure was only slightly altered, despite histone deacetylation at the EWSR1::ATF1 promoter region. Alternatively, we found that vorinostat treatment reduced the level of BRD4, a member of the bromodomain and extraterminal motif protein family, at the EWSR1::ATF1 promoter region. Furthermore, the BRD4 inhibitor JQ1 downregulated EWSR1::ATF1 according to Western blotting and qPCR analyses. In addition, motif analysis revealed that vorinostat treatment suppressed the transcriptional factor SOX10, which directly regulates EWSR1::ATF1 expression and is involved in CCS proliferation. Importantly, we demonstrate that a combination therapy of vorinostat and JQ1 synergistically enhances antiproliferation effect and EWSR1::ATF1 suppression. These results highlight a novel fusion gene suppression mechanism achieved using epigenetic modification agents and provide a potential therapeutic target for fusion gene–related tumors.
Significance:
This study reveals the epigenetic and transcriptional suppression mechanism of the fusion oncogene EWSR1::ATF1 in clear cell sarcoma by histone deacetylase inhibitor treatment as well as identifying SOX10 as a transcription factor that regulates EWSR1::ATF1 expression.
Semaphorin 4D Promotes Osteoclast Formation but Inhibits Osteoblast Formation: Implication in Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Authors: Liu Lili , Mu Hong , Pang Ying , Liu Jingbo , Liu Chunsheng
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Bisphosphonates are widely used for the treatment of osteoporosis, which could cause osteonecrosis of the jaw (also known as bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw [BRONJ]). Currently, there is no effective treatment for BRONJ. Here, we investigated the role of human recombinant semaphorin 4D (Sema4D) in BRONJ in vitro. Methods: MG-63 and RAW264.7 cells were used to determine the effects of Sema4D on BRONJ. Osteoclast and osteoblast were differentiated by treatment with 50 ng/mL RANKL for 7 days. In vitro BRONJ model was induced by treatment with ZOL (2.5 μm). The development of osteoclasts and osteoblasts was evaluated using ALP activity and ARS staining. qRT-PCR was used to measure the genes relative expression involved in the development of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. In addition, ZOL decreased TRAP-positive area; TRAP protein and mRNA expression were determined using Western blot and qTR-PCR. Results: ZOL treatment remarkedly suppressed Sema4D expression in RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, ZOL reduced TRAP-positive area and TRAP protein and mRNA expression. In parallel, genes involved in osteoclast formation were reduced by ZOL treatment. In contrast, osteoclast apoptosis was increased by ZOL treatment. Recombinant human Sema4D significantly abolished these effects of ZOL. In addition, ALP activity was reduced by recombinant human Sema4D. Discussions: Genes involved in osteoblast formation were decreased by recombinant human Sema4D in a dose-dependent manner. We demonstrated that ZOL treatment inhibited Sema4D expression in RAW264.7 cells. Conclusion: Recombinant human Sema4D treatment can effectively alleviate ZOL-induced inhibition of osteoclast formation and apoptosis and promote osteoblast formation.
Application of a mathematical model for the Motoman MH-50 industrial robot’s electric drive system
Authors: Vladimirovich Litsin Konstantin , Rakhmanov Rakhmetolla , Vitalievich Tsukanov Andrey
Published: July 2023

In recent years, there has been a great interest in the transition to digital and automation services for dangerous and menial working processes. Due to its MH50-35 industrial robot, Motoman's properties allow us to improve the control system of an electric drive for industrial robots. The structure of the electric drive for six-axis robot manipulator performance can be superior to conventional Drive Control servos for motor excitation, and a novel automation system can be implemented for its servo performance. To solve these issues, we propose an optimization strategy that allows us to achieve an increase in productivity and labor safety in the industry, reduce the percentage of defects, guarantee product uniformity, and reduce the prime cost of production of items. Ideal conditions were anticipated using a mathematical model. In this study, by using a statistical model, the ideal conditions were synthesized. The optimization of the control system of an electric drive for industrial robot analysis was carried out, and our findings suggest using this model in industrial production to elucidate problems such as high accuracy and speed indicators.