bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety of Nebulized Ciprodex for Postoperative Management of Tracheal Resection
Authors: Chwa Jason S. , Shuman Elizabeth A. , O'Dell Karla
Published: March 2024

Objective

Anastomotic complications after tracheal resection/cricotracheal resection (TR/CTR), such as granulation tissue formation, can lead to severe morbidity. The off‐label use of nebulized ciprofloxacin‐dexamethasone (Ciprodex) for granulation tissue prophylaxis has anecdotally been used after TR/CTR, especially in pediatric patients. However, its use in the adult population, and its safety and side effect profile post‐TR/CTR has not been reported. This study aims to characterize the incidence of adverse side effects associated with nebulized Ciprodex in post‐TR/CTR patients.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent TR/CTR from June 2015 to July 2023 was performed. The use of nebulized Ciprodex (1 mL ciprofloxacin‐dexamethasone 0.3%–0.1% otic suspension in 4 mL normal saline) while inpatient was evaluated. Potential side effects were defined as oral thrush, ageusia, arthralgia, and allergic reaction, and were recorded for all patients.

Results

Seventy‐three patients underwent TR/CTR from June 2015 to July 2023. Of these, 53 (72.6%) had documented Ciprodex administration during their postoperative course. One (1.9%) patient reported at least one side effect, including one instance of skin rash (1.9%) and one instance of allergic reaction (1.9%). There were no other side effects attributed to Ciprodex use.

Conclusions

The incidence of side effects related to the use of nebulized Ciprodex is felt to be minimal in post‐TR/CTR. Although Ciprodex may have the potential to treat granulation tissue in the airway, further studies are needed to verify its efficacy and safety.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3695–3697, 2024
Polyethyleneimine Controlled Impregnation of Silver Nanowires on Electrospun Ceramic Sponges
Authors: Fang Dan , Liu Yi‐Tao , Ding Bin , Greiner Andreas
Published: March 2024

Electrospun sponges with electrical conductivity are promising materials for electrodes with applications in pressure sensors, flexible wearable sensors, and supercapacitors. However, electrospun sponges display poor electric conductivity, which can be increased by the addition of silver nanowire (AgNW). The resulting electric conductivity may depend strongly on the distribution of the AgNW in and on the sponges. A straightforward assembly method for an elastic conductive sponge, composed of 3D structures and metal nanowires, using a synergistic strategy which involves modified impregnation and deposition processes assisted by polyethyleneimine (PEI) impregnation, is presented. The resulting changes in the material properties are also explored, and it is under specific conditions, that percolation, leading to significantly enhanced electrical conductivity in the sponges, is achieved.
Acute coronary syndrome in a patient with gastric cancer treated by immune checkpoint inhibitor: A case report
Authors: Guan Bin , Zhang Lingyun , Yu Shan
Published: March 2024

Objective

To highlight the incidence and management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in patients with gastric cancer undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy, emphasizing the need for early detection and intervention in this high‐risk population.

Patients and methods

We presented a case of a 71‐year‐old male patient with poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma of the gastric antrum, clinical stage cT4N2M0, phase III, with no prior history of chronic diseases or cardiovascular risk factors. The patient was treated with a combination of ICI therapy (sintilimab) and chemotherapy using the albumin‐bound paclitaxel combined with S1 regimen. Following therapy, he developed symptoms and diagnostic findings consistent with ACS, which was managed with percutaneous coronary stenting.

Results

The patient's presentation with ACS during ICI therapy underscored the potential cardiovascular risks associated with cancer treatments, particularly in patients without traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Management involved collaboration between oncologists and cardiologists, leading to successful coronary stenting and continuation of antitumor therapy.

Conclusion

ACS is a significant risk in patients with malignancies undergoing ICI therapy, even in those without prior cardiovascular disease. Early recognition and management of ACS in this context are crucial to enable the continuation of cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes. This case underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing complex patients with concurrent cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Redundant nerve roots on magnetic resonance imaging can predict ongoing denervation in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Park Seoyeong , Hong Sung Hwan , Chung Sun Gun , Kim Keewon
Published: March 2024

Introduction/Aims

Redundant nerve roots (RNRs) are abnormally elongated and tortuous nerve roots that develop secondary to degenerative spinal stenosis. RNRs have been associated with poorer clinical outcomes after decompression surgery; however, studies on their clinical characteristics are limited. This study aimed to investigate the association between RNRs and denervation potentials, that is, abnormal spontaneous activity (ASA), on electromyography.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data of patients who underwent an electrodiagnostic study of the lower extremities between January 2020 and March 2023. Of these, patients with lumbar central spinal stenosis, as seen on magnetic resonance imaging, were included. We analyzed clinical and imaging data, including presence of ASA, and compared them according to the presence of RNRs. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with development of ASA.

Results

Among the 2003 patients screened, 193 were included in the study. RNRs were associated with advanced age (p < .001), longer symptom duration (p = .009), smaller cross‐sectional area of the dural sac at the stenotic level (p < .001), and higher frequency of ASA (p < .001). Higher probability of ASA was correlated with greater RNR severity (p < .001). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, ASA occurrence was associated with smaller cross‐sectional area, multiple stenotic sites, and severe‐grade RNRs.

Discussion

The presence of RNRs, particularly severe‐grade RNRs, was identified as a significant risk factor for the development of ASA on electromyography. This finding may aid physicians in estimating the prognosis of patients with central spinal stenosis.
Effects of Cochlear Implantation and Steroids on the Aging Guinea Pig Cochlea
Authors: Hyzer Jeffrey M. , Hill Jordan D. , He Wenxuan , Burwood George W. S. , Fettig Adrienne K. , Reiss Lina A. J.
Published: March 2024

Objective

The objective was to determine the effects of older age on hearing preservation after cochlear implantation (CI), and whether steroids improve hearing preservation in older animals. We hypothesized greater hearing preservation would be observed in (1) young animals compared to older animals and (2) older animals receiving steroids compared to no steroids. The secondary objective was to assess levels of fibrosis utilizing optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Study Design

Experimental Animal Study.

Setting

Laboratory.

Methods

Three groups of guinea pigs: young (YCI; 8.5 ± 0.5 weeks; n = 10), old (OCI; 19.1 ± 1.0 months; n = 9) and old + steroids (OCI+S; 19.1 ± 1.0 months; n = 9) underwent CI. The OCI+S group received a steroid taper over 7 days starting 2 days before surgery to 4 days after. Auditory brainstem response (ABR) measurements were performed preoperatively and postoperatively. OCT imaging was performed to assess cochleae for extent of fibrotic tissue growth in the scala tympani.

Results

The YCI group had significantly better hearing preservation as measured by smaller increases in ABR thresholds [mean shift: 2.79 ± 0.66] compared to the OCI group [mean shift = 12.44 ± 5.6]. The OCI+S group had significantly better hearing preservation [2.66 ± 1.50] compared to the OCI group. No significant differences was seen in fibrosis across groups.

Conclusions

Young animals and older animals that received steroids had better hearing after CI than older animals not given steroids, but hearing preservation was not correlated with the level of fibrosis assessed using OCT. This work is the first to investigate differences in hearing preservation by age in an animal model, and supports the protective effects of steroids on hearing preservation in older individuals.
Synthesis and characterization of waste polyethylene/Bi2O3 composites reinforced with CuO/ZnO nanoparticles as sustainable radiation shielding materials
Authors: Awad Eman H. , Raslan Heba A. , Abou‐Laila M. T. , Taha Eman O. , Atta M. M.
Published: March 2024

In the present research, waste polyethylene (WPE)/Bi2O3 composites have been investigated as lightweight, inexpensive, and nontoxic lead‐free γ‐ray shielding materials. Different WPE‐based composites were prepared with varying concentrations of Bi2O3 (30 and 40 phr). The effect of adding ZnO and CuO nanoparticles (NPs) inside the WPE/Bi2O3 (30) matrix was studied by incorporating 10 phr of NPs inside it. The nanocomposites' structural, thermal, and mechanical properties and competence in shielding against γ‐radiation are studied. The outcomes revealed that the mechanical properties of the pristine WPE were enhanced after incorporating Bi2O3 by 30 phr, and then it worsened after increasing the Bi2O3 ratio to 40 phr. In contrast, better mechanical properties were obtained for those composites with NPs, where the maximum tensile strength (16.2 MPa) was recorded for the WPE/Bi2O3/CuO composite (higher than WPE by 47.27%). Numbers of parameters like μm, HVL (half‐value layer), TVL (tenth value layer), RPE%, and percentage of heaviness can denote the efficiency of shielding properties of composites at 662 KeV from 137Cs point source. It was found that μm and RPE% reach the maximum value for WPE/Bi2O3 (40 phr). Adding NPs decreases μm of WPE/Bi2O3 (30) slightly.

Highlights

Composites based on waste polyethylene (WPE)/Bi2O3 (30 and 40 phr) were fabricated.

Nano CuO and ZnO improved the mechanical properties of WPE/Bi2O3 (30).

WPE/Bi2O3 (40) composites show the best shielding characteristics.

Nano CuO and ZnO slightly decreased μm of WPE/Bi2O3 (30).
Green Chemical Approach for the Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles and Investigation of their Cytotoxicity
Authors: Hamrayev Hemra , Jazayeri Seyed Davoud , Yusefi Mostafa , Brianna  , Teow Sin‐Yeang , Wu Yuan Seng , Anwar Ayaz , Korpayev Serdar , Kartouzian Aras , Shameli Kamyar
Published: March 2024

In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs) are synthesized and combined with chitosan (Cs) to create Cs/ZnO‐NPs nanomicelles, aiming to investigate their potential as a novel cancer treatment. The ZnO‐NPs are produced through a sintering process at temperatures ranging from 300 to 700 °C. The most effective nanoparticles are obtained at 600 °C, as determined by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses, which confirmed their crystallinity and purity. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are employed to characterize the size and shape of the nanoparticles, revealing predominantly spherical and hexagonal structures with stable dimensions. The cytotoxic effects of the Cs/ZnO‐NPs are evaluated against various cancer cell types. The results show that at a concentration of 125 µg mL−1, the Cs/ZnO‐NPs demonstrate significantly higher cancer cell toxicity compared to ZnO‐NPs alone, while remaining non‐toxic to normal cells. This indicates that Cs/ZnO‐NPs have a superior ability to selectively target cancer cells. These findings suggest that Cs/ZnO‐NPs nanomicelles hold promise as an effective and safe nanotherapeutic approach in the realm of cancer treatment, meriting further exploration for clinical applications.
Virtual interviews and equity: The pediatric pulmonary fellow perspective
Authors: Richard Kristen , Chiel Laura , Kazmerski Traci M. , Atteih Samar , Nelson Ben , Cohen Robyn , Laguna Theresa A. , D'Anna Rachel , Dahlberg Suzanne , Zecena Magan , Casey Alicia
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives

The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic shifted medical training programs to utilize virtual interviews (VIs) starting with the 2020 interview cycle. Fellowship interviews continue in the virtual format. It is unknown how this shift has affected equity for applicants as compared to in‐person interviews. Equity in this study includes consideration of the opportunity for an applicant to accept, access, and conduct a VI. This study assessed pediatric pulmonary fellows' perception of equity associated with VIs and preferences for future cycles.

Methods

An anonymous survey link was emailed to Pediatric Pulmonology Program Directors to disseminate to incoming and first‐year pediatric pulmonary fellows who participated in the 2022–2023 and 2021–2022 VI seasons. Responses were summarized by frequency and percentages. Inductive coding was used to thematically analyze free‐text responses.

Results

Nearly 30% of eligible incoming and first‐year pulmonary fellows (n = 35/119, 29.4%) completed the survey. Seventy‐four percent felt that VIs reduce inequities as compared to in‐person interviews. Sixty percent felt that VIs were the most equitable format, and 51% chose a VI as their preferred future format. Important practice considerations to promote equity for future VIs included providing applicants with instruction for the expected dress code, followed by providing applicants with virtual technology (91% and 89% of respondents ranked as at least “somewhat important,” respectively).

Conclusion

VIs were perceived as a more equitable interview format by pediatric pulmonology fellows compared to in‐person interviews in our study. To increase equity for VIs, program directors can consider additional adaptations such as providing standardized instruction for dress code and providing the required technology.
Low‐Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition of Hexagonal Boron Nitride on a‐Plane Sapphire Using BCl3 as a Boron Source
Authors: Hara Kazuhiko , Oishi Taiki , Ota Soma , Aoike Ruki , Takahashi Yuma , Takemura Akira , Kominami Hiroko
Published: March 2024

Hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) thin films are grown on a‐plane sapphire substrates at different temperatures, Tg, by low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition with BCl3 and NH3 as boron and nitrogen sources, respectively, and their crystallographic and luminescence properties are compared with those grown on c‐plane sapphire. A notable difference from the c‐plane sapphire is that the substrate surface is significantly nitrided during film growth at Tg higher than 1200 °C, whereas no such nitridation is observed up to 1500 °C for the growth on c‐plane sapphire. The nitridation of the substrate surface is found to cause the degradation of the film quality. However, the properties of the films grown on a‐plane sapphire at Tg lower than 1200 °C are comparable to or better than those grown on c‐plane sapphire. The h‐BN epitaxial film is grown at 1150 °C epitaxially on the a‐plane sapphire substrate with the out‐of‐plane and in‐plane relationships, h‐BN//sapphire andh‐BN//sapphire, respectively. This study suggests that a‐plane sapphire is suitable for growing high‐quality h‐BN films at relatively low Tg.
Pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy due to early gastric carcinoma in a patient with no antemortem findings suggestive of primary malignancy
Authors: Noiri Jun‐ichi , Taniguchi Yu , Izawa Yu , Saga Nobuyuki , Kusakabe Kaori , Koma Yu‐ichiro , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: March 2024

Pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy (PTTM) is a rare and critical malignancy‐related disease characterized by acute progressive pulmonary hypertension (PH). In most cases of PTTM, the cancer can be diagnosed in advance. Identification of the primary cancer is valuable for PTTM diagnosis. Here, we present the case of a patient with PTTM due to early gastric carcinoma in whom the diagnosis of malignant cancer was not revealed until macroscopic autopsy findings. This case highlights the importance of recognizing causative occult early gastric cancer leading to PTTM in cases of acute progressive PH.
Exponential stability of fractional‐order uncertain systems with asynchronous switching and impulses
Authors: Zhang Jinsen , Nie Xiaobing
Published: March 2024

Different from the Mittag–Leffler stability or asymptotic stability, the exponential stability issue, which provides faster and explicit convergence rate, is studied in this paper for fractional‐order uncertain systems with asynchronous switching and impulses, where the impulsive functions rely on not only switching modes but also impulsive time. Instead of using the inequality , by utilizing the theory of fractional‐order differential equations, the methods of Lyapunov function and mathematical induction, some novel and less‐conservative stability criteria are developed, respectively, for the case of switched stable subsystems or switched unstable subsystems. The obtained results build a tradeoff between impulsive function, impulsive interval, average dwell time and fractional order. In addition, our results with are also novel in contrast with the ones of integer‐order switched impulsive systems. Finally, five numerical examples are given to show the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Facet Dependent Photoluminescence Blinking from Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Panda Mrinal Kanti , Acharjee Debopam , Mahato Asit Baran , Ghosh Subhadip
Published: March 2024

Photoluminescence (PL) blinking of nanoparticles, while detrimental to their imaging applications, may benefit next‐generation displays if the blinking is precisely controlled by reversible electron/hole injections from an external source. Considerable efforts are made to create well‐characterized charged excitons within nanoparticles through electrochemical charging, which has led to enhanced control over PL‐blinking in numerous instances. Manipulating the photocharging/discharging rates in nanoparticles by surface engineering can represent a straightforward method for regulating their blinking behaviors, an area largely unexplored for perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs). This work shows facet engineering leading to different morphologies of PNCs characterized by distinct blinking patterns. For instance, examining the PL intensity trajectories of single PNCs, representing the instantaneous photon count rate over time, reveals that the OFF‐state population significantly increases as the number of facets increases from six to twenty‐six. This study suggests that extra‐faceted PNCs, owing to their polar facets and expanded surface area, render them more susceptible to photocharging, which results in larger OFF‐state populations. Furthermore, the fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) study unveils that the augmented propensity for photocharging in extra‐faceted PNCs can also originate from their greater tendency to form complexes with neighboring molecules.
Robust, Narrow‐Band Nanorods LEDs with Luminous Efficacy > 200 lm/W: Next‐Generation of Efficient Solid‐State Lighting
Authors: Kang Chengbin , Prodanov Maksym F. , Song Jianxin , Mallem Kumar , Liao Zebing , Vashchenko Valerii V. , Srivastava Abhishek K.
Published: March 2024

Energy‐efficient white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are in high demand across the society. Despite the significant advancements in the modern lighting industry based on solid‐state electronics and inorganic phosphor, solid‐state lighting (SSL) continues to pursue improved efficiency, saturated color performance, and longer lifetime. Here in this article, robust, narrow emission band nanorods (NRs) are disclosed with tailored wavelengths, aiming to enhance the color rendering index (CRI) and luminous efficacy (LE). The fabricated lighting device consists of NRs of configuration CdSe/ZnxCd1‐xS/ZnS, which can independently tune CRI R1‐R9 values and maximize the luminous efficacy. For general lighting, NRs with quantum yield (QY) up to 96% and 99% are developed, resulting in ultra‐efficient LEDs reaching a record high luminous efficacy of 214 lm W−1 (certified by the National Accreditation Service). Furthermore, NRs are deployed onto mid‐power (0.3 W@ 50 mA) LEDs, showing significantly enhanced long‐term stability (T95 = 400 h @ 50 mA). With these astonishing properties, the proposed NRs can pave the way for efficient lighting with desired optical spectrum.
Nano‐Interfacial Supramolecular Adhesion of Metal–Organic Framework‐Based Separator Enables High‐Safety and Wide‐Temperature‐Range Lithium Batteries
Authors: Gao You , Liu Qing‐Song , Long Man‐Cheng , Zhu Guo‐Rui , Wu Gang , Wang Xiu‐Li , Wang Yu‐Zhong
Published: March 2024

Polyolefin separators are the most commonly used separators for lithium batteries; however, they tend to shrink when heated, and their Li+ transference number (t Li+) is low. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are expected to solve the above problems due to their high thermal stability, abundant pore structure, and open metal sites. However, it is difficult to prepare high‐porosity MOF‐based membranes by conventional membrane preparation methods. In this study, a high‐porosity free‐standing MOF‐based safety separator, denoted the BCM separator, is prepared through a nano‐interfacial supramolecular adhesion strategy. The BCM separator has a large specific surface area (450.22 m2 g−1) and porosity (62.0%), a high electrolyte uptake (475 wt%), and can maintain its morphology at 200 °C. The ionic conductivity and t Li+ of the BCM separator are 1.97 and 0.72 mS cm−1, respectively. Li//LiFePO4 cells with BCM separators have a capacity retention rate of 95.07% after 1100 cycles at 5  C, a stable high‐temperature cycling performance of 300 cycles at 80 °C, and good capacity retention at −40 °C. Li//NCM811 cells with BCM separators exhibit significantly improved rate performance and cycling performance. Pouch cells with BCM separators can work at 120 °C and have good safety at high temperature.
The 2022 who went where in supply chain management
Authors: Theodore Farris M. , Gabaldon Janeth , Gravier Michael J.
Published: March 2024

The inaugural Who Went Where in Supply Chain Management (SCM) survey replicates the 19‐year format from the highly successful American Marketing Association (AMA) Doctoral Special Interest Group. Results provide data about newly minted doctoral graduates in the job‐seeking stage of their doctoral programs. The report is based on their responses and offers insight into the competitiveness of doctoral applicants as they sought starting positions. We adapted the AMA survey report to the field of SCM. As the new researchers and academics with SCM doctorates place themselves into academic and nonacademic positions, the report seeks to provide (1) awareness to PhD students on how to prepare and be competitive in the job market and (2) offer acumen to academic leaders to equip doctoral students and shape their doctoral program requirements to enhance competitiveness.
Use of a drone equipped with microthermal sensors to estimate the quality of the atmosphere for astronomical observation
Authors: Quesada‐Moreno José Antonio , Martínez‐Ibarra Emilio , Ortiz José Luis
Published: March 2024

A drone was used to obtain thermal profiles to estimate atmospheric turbulence for the purposes of astronomical observation. The first 150 metres above ground level were studied in two areas in the south‐east of the Iberian Peninsula. The preliminary results are promising regarding the use of drones as a suitable means of transport for obtaining microthermal measurements. We have also assessed the influence of the planetary boundary layer on the quality of the image for astronomical purposes. In future research, we intend to check these measurements with fixed microthermal sensors installed in meteorological towers.
Evaluating the performance of semiautomated photographic identification programs for leopard seals
Authors: Grabham Alexander A. , van der Linde Krista , Nelson Ximena J.
Published: March 2024

The photographic identification (photo‐ID) of individual animals can be time‐consuming and erroneous. Recent efforts to collect photographs of leopard seals (Hydrurga leptonyx) from across their range have necessitated the technological streamlining of photo‐ID. We constructed a dataset containing 595 photographs of the head and body of individuals recorded in New Zealand between 2008 and 2022 to test the performance of semiautomated 3 photo‐ID programs: HotSpotter, Interactive Individual Identification System's Pattern+ (I3S), and Wild‐ID. We classified attributes of photographs (e.g., quality) and individuals (i.e., pelage patterns) to assess their effect on performance. We compared performance using Top20 and Top1 Accuracy, defined as the proportion of test photographs where the highest ranked correct identity was in the top 20 and top 1, respectively, matched reference photographs. HotSpotter outperformed I3S and Wild‐ID in both Top20 and Top1 Accuracy of most assessed attributes. Maximizing HotSpotter's performance may be achieved through several methods, including increasing the number and variety of photographs of individuals in the dataset. HotSpotter will likely perform better with photographs without obstructions (e.g., debris from beaches), such as on the pack ice of their primary Antarctic range. We highlight the viability of HotSpotter in assisting the photo‐ID of leopard seals, and more broadly, other species with similar markings.
Effect of photobiomodulation therapy as a multimodal approach to treatment of dermal abrasions in cownose rays (Rhinoptera bonasus)
Authors: Gilewski Anne L. , Flower Jennifer E. , Miller Lisa , Tuttle Allison D.
Published: March 2024

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has become increasingly utilized in the zoo and aquarium fields to treat ailments in various species; however, its use in teleosts and elasmobranchs is relatively underrepresented in the literature. This study examined the efficacy of PBMT as an adjunct treatment to reduce the healing time of dermal abrasions in cownose rays (Rhinoptera bonasus). Ten cownose rays were included in this study and separated into control (n = 5) and treatment groups (n = 5). Animals in both treatment and control groups received intramuscular injections of enrofloxacin every 72 h to provide broad‐spectrum antibiotic coverage. Cownose rays in the treatment group additionally received PBMT using the Companion® CTC‐12 unit using the large, noncontact head. Control group rays were subjected to identical handling without the use of PBMT. A total of 196 Joules were delivered at a power of 2 W based on a dose of 5 J/cm2 at each session. Observational analysis revealed a lack of appreciable difference in healing time between the treatment and control groups in the aforementioned settings; however, it is recommended that PBMT protocols should be re‐evaluated if there is little to no response in healing after three to four sessions. PBMT use on acute superficial dermal abrasions in cownose rays was well‐tolerated in this study and may have utility in a multimodal treatment approach to wound healing. This study also produced a wound scoring metric based on photographs captured at each treatment. Future studies should utilize increased fluence (J/cm2) and irradiance (W/cm2) and incorporate synchronous histological analysis and increased sample size.
A Case Study Exploring ESL Instructors’ Perspectives of Blended Learning in UAE Higher Education
Authors: Alawadhi Azza
Published: March 2024

Recently, universities and colleges across the United Arab Emirates have been actively incorporating new learning technologies to facilitate blended learning pedagogy mandated by the Ministry of Higher Education during the COVID-19 crisis. Despite its popularity, blended learning is still a relatively new approach to learning across higher education in the UAE. This small-scale qualitative study seeks to gain insights into instructors’ perspectives of blended learning in an ESL program at a federal college in the UAE. Semi-structured interviews were used to identify the benefits and challenges perceived by instructors teaching in this context. The results revealed several key benefits, including increased flexibility, improved accessibility, and timely and continuous learning. However, instructors also reported increased academic workload, technical issues, and a lack of professional development as barriers. The findings offer recommendations, implications, and possible future directions for stakeholders and academics to inform future directives.
Pre-training on Multi-modal for Improved Persona Detection Using Multi Datasets
Authors: Abdulla Salwa , Muammar Suadad , Shaalan Khaled
Published: March 2024

Persona identification helps AI-based communication systems provide personalized and situationally informed interactions. This paper introduces pre-training on CNN, BERT, and GPT models to improve persona detection on PMPC and ROCStories datasets. Two speakers with different personalities have dialogues in the PMPC dataset. The challenge is to match each speaker to their persona. The ROCStories dataset contains fictional character traits and activities. Our study uses transformer-based design to improve persona detection using ROCStories dataset external context. We compare our method to leading models in the field. We found that pre-training and fine-tuning on several datasets improves model performance. External context from tale collections may improve persona detection algorithms and help understand human personality and behavior. Our study found that pre-training CNN, BERT, and GPT models improves persona detection, improving user experiences and communication. The method could be used in chatbots, personalized recommendation systems, and customer support. Additionally, it can help create AI-driven communication systems with tailored, context-aware, and human-like interactions.
Inflammation in heart failure: pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Boulet Jacinthe , Sridhar Vikas S. , Bouabdallaoui Nadia , Tardif Jean-Claude , White Michel
Published: March 2024

A role for inflammation in the development and progression of heart failure (HF) has been proposed for decades. Multiple studies have demonstrated the potential involvement of several groups of cytokines and chemokines in acute and chronic HF, though targeting these pathways in early therapeutic trials have produced mixed results. These studies served to highlight the complexity and nuances of how pro-inflammatory pathways contribute to the pathogenesis of HF. More recent investigations have highlighted how inflammation may play distinct roles based on HF syndrome phenotypes, findings that may guide the development of novel therapies. In this review, we propose a contemporary update on the role of inflammation mediated by the innate and adaptive immune systems with HF, highlighting differences that exist across the ejection fraction spectrum. This will specifically be looked at through the lens of established and novel biomarkers of inflammation. Subsequently, we review how improvements in inflammatory pathways may mediate clinical benefits of existing guideline-directed medical therapies for HF, as well as future therapies in the pipeline targeting HF and inflammation.
De novo GRIN variants in M3 helix associated with neurological disorders control channel gating of NMDA receptor
Authors: Xu Yuchen , Song Rui , Perszyk Riley E. , Chen Wenjuan , Kim Sukhan , Park Kristen L. , Allen James P. , Nocilla Kelsey A. , Zhang Jing , XiangWei Wenshu , Tankovic Anel , McDaniels Ellington D. , Sheikh Rehan , Mizu Ruth K. , Karamchandani Manish M. , Hu Chun , Kusumoto Hirofumi , Pecha Joseph , Cappuccio Gerarda , Gaitanis John , Sullivan Jennifer , Shashi Vandana , Petrovski Slave , Jauss Robin-Tobias , Lee Hyun Kyung , Bozarth Xiuhua , Lynch David R. , Helbig Ingo , Pierson Tyler Mark , Boerkoel Cornelius F. , Myers Scott J. , Lemke Johannes R. , Benke Timothy A. , Yuan Hongjie , Traynelis Stephen F.
Published: March 2024

N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are members of the glutamate receptor family and participate in excitatory postsynaptic transmission throughout the central nervous system. Genetic variants in GRIN genes encoding NMDAR subunits are associated with a spectrum of neurological disorders. The M3 transmembrane helices of the NMDAR couple directly to the agonist-binding domains and form a helical bundle crossing in the closed receptors that occludes the pore. The M3 functions as a transduction element whose conformational change couples ligand binding to opening of an ion conducting pore. In this study, we report the functional consequences of 48 de novo missense variants in GRIN1, GRIN2A, and GRIN2B that alter residues in the M3 transmembrane helix. These de novo variants were identified in children with neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders including epilepsy, developmental delay, intellectual disability, hypotonia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. All 48 variants in M3 for which comprehensive testing was completed produce a gain-of-function (28/48) compared to loss-of-function (9/48); 11 variants had an indeterminant phenotype. This supports the idea that a key structural feature of the M3 gate exists to stabilize the closed state so that agonist binding can drive channel opening. Given that most M3 variants enhance channel gating, we assessed the potency of FDA-approved NMDAR channel blockers on these variant receptors. These data provide new insight into the structure–function relationship of the NMDAR gate, and suggest that variants within the M3 transmembrane helix produce a gain-of-function.
Integration of a fasting-mimicking diet programme in primary care for type 2 diabetes reduces the need for medication and improves glycaemic control: a 12-month randomised controlled trial
Authors: van den Burg Elske L. , Schoonakker Marjolein P. , van Peet Petra G. , van den Akker-van Marle Elske M. , Lamb Hildo J. , Longo Valter D. , Numans Mattijs E. , Pijl Hanno
Published: March 2024

Aims/hypothesis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact on metabolic control of periodic use of a 5-day fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) programme as an adjunct to usual care in people with type 2 diabetes under regular primary care surveillance.

Methods

In this randomised, controlled, assessor-blinded trial, people with type 2 diabetes using metformin as the only glucose-lowering drug and/or diet for glycaemic control were randomised to receive 5-day cycles of an FMD monthly as an adjunct to regular care by their general practitioner or to receive regular care only. The primary outcomes were changes in glucose-lowering medication (as reflected by the medication effect score) and HbA1c levels after 12 months. Moreover, changes in use of glucose-lowering medication and/or HbA1c levels in individual participants were combined to yield a clinically relevant outcome measure (‘glycaemic management’), which was categorised as improved, stable or deteriorated after 1 year of follow-up. Several secondary outcome measures were also examined, including changes in body weight.

Results

One hundred individuals with type 2 diabetes, age 18–75 years, BMI ≥27 kg/m2, were randomised to the FMD group (n=51) or the control group (n=49). Eight FMD participants and ten control participants were lost to follow-up. Intention-to-treat analyses, using linear mixed models, revealed adjusted estimated treatment effects for the medication effect score (−0.3; 95% CI −0.4, −0.2; p<0.001), HbA1c (−3.2 mmol/mol; 95% CI −6.2, −0.2 and −0.3%; 95% CI −0.6, −0.0; p=0.04) and body weight (−3.6 kg; 95% CI −5.2, −2.1; p<0.001) at 12 months. Glycaemic management improved in 53% of participants using FMD vs 8% of control participants, remained stable in 23% vs 33%, and deteriorated in 23% vs 59% (p<0.001).

Conclusions/interpretation

Integration of a monthly FMD programme in regular primary care for people with type 2 diabetes who use metformin as the only glucose-lowering drug and/or diet for glycaemic control reduces the need for glucose-lowering medication, improves HbA1c despite the reduction in medication use, and appears to be safe in routine clinical practice.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03811587

Funding

The project was co-funded by Health~Holland, Top Sector Life Sciences & Health, the Dutch Diabetes Foundation and L-Nutra.

Graphical Abstract
Indiscernibles and satisfaction classes in arithmetic
Authors: Enayat Ali
Published: March 2024

We investigate the theory Peano Arithmetic with Indiscernibles ($$\textrm{PAI}$$
PAI
). Models of $$\textrm{PAI}$$
PAI
are of the form $$({\mathcal {M}},I)$$

(
M
,
I
)

, where $${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
is a model of $$\textrm{PA}$$
PA
, I is an unbounded set of order indiscernibles over $${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
, and $$({\mathcal {M}},I)$$

(
M
,
I
)

satisfies the extended induction scheme for formulae mentioning I. Our main results are Theorems A and B following. Theorem A.Let$${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
be a nonstandard model of$$\textrm{PA}$$
PA
of any cardinality. $$\mathcal {M }$$
M
has an expansion to a model of $$\textrm{PAI}$$
PAI
iff$$ {\mathcal {M}}$$
M
has an inductive partial satisfaction class. Theorem A yields the following corollary, which provides a new characterization of countable recursively saturated models of $$\textrm{PA}$$
PA
: Corollary.A countable model$${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
of $$\textrm{PA}$$
PA
is recursively saturated iff $${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
has an expansion to a model of $$\textrm{PAI}$$
PAI
. Theorem B.There is a sentence $$\alpha $$
α
in the language obtained by adding a unary predicateI(x) to the language of arithmetic such that given any nonstandard model $${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
of$$\textrm{PA}$$
PA
of any cardinality, $${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
has an expansion to a model of $$\text {PAI}+\alpha $$

PAI
+
α

iff$${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
has a inductive full satisfaction class.
Assessing the financial impacts of significant wildfires on US capital markets: sectoral analysis
Authors: Tavor Tchai
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the impact of significant wildfires from 2019 to 2022 on nine sectors within the US capital markets, utilizing a dataset encompassing 161 wildfires. Employing a combination of parametric and nonparametric tests, alongside regression analysis, the research scrutinizes how capital markets in distinct sectors respond to wildfire events, revealing nuanced effects. In sectors directly impacted, the insurance industry displays sensitivity to fire costs, with explicit country or event mentions correlating with sustained returns. Conversely, the real estate sector experiences diminished returns during prolonged wildfires, while the forestry and timber industry exhibits heightened sensitivity to fire costs, especially when ignited by lightning. Within indirect impact sectors, the health industry shows vulnerability to fire-related fatalities, with subsequent negative correlations with country mentions. In the food industry, fire costs contribute positively to returns, while duration and size yield negative effects. The transportation industry witnesses a gradual decline in returns, escalating with the number of fire days or associated costs. In resilience and mitigation sectors, utilities demonstrate recovery post-wildfires, contrasting with consistent declines in the energy sector. Among interconnected sectors, the travel and tourism industry sees increased returns tied to the number of victims, with events caused by human actions having a more pronounced impact. This research underscores the significance of tailored risk assessment and mitigation strategies, offering valuable insights for investors and policymakers navigating the intricate relationship between environmental events and financial markets.
Changes in Stress Urinary Incontinence Symptoms after Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery: a Nationwide Cohort Study (FINPOP)
Authors: Karjalainen Päivi K. , Tolppanen Anna-Maija , Wihersaari Olga , Nieminen Kari , Mattsson Nina K. , Jalkanen Jyrki T.
Published: March 2024

Introduction and hypothesis

Various strategies are employed to manage stress urinary incontinence (SUI) during pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery. This study was aimed at facilitating shared decision-making by evaluating SUI symptom changes, staged SUI procedures, and their prognostic factors following POP surgery without concomitant SUI intervention.

Methods

We analyzed 2,677 POP surgeries from a population-based observational cohort, excluding patients with prior SUI surgery. The outcome measures were subjective SUI utilizing the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 questionnaire and number of subsequent SUI procedures. Multivariable linear models were applied to identify predictors of persistent SUI, procedures for persistent SUI, and de novo SUI. The primary assessment occurred at the 2-year follow-up.

Results

At baseline, 50% (1,329 out of 2,677) experienced SUI; 35% (354 out of 1,005) resolved, an additional 14% (140 out 1,005) improved, and 5.1% (67 out of 1,308) underwent a procedure for persistent SUI. De novo SUI symptoms developed in 20% (218 out of 1,087), with 3.2% (35 out of 1,087) reporting bothersome symptoms; 0.8% (11 out of 1,347) underwent a procedure for de novo SUI. High baseline symptom severity increased the risk of persistent SUI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.65–2.53), whereas advanced preoperative apical prolapse decreased the risk (aOR 0.89, 95% CI 0.85–0.93). De novo SUI was more common with advancing age (aOR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.05), baseline urgency urinary incontinence (aOR 1.21, 95% CI 1.06–1.38), and after transvaginal mesh surgery (aOR 1.93, 95% CI 1.24–3.00). It was not dependent on the compartment or preoperative degree of prolapse.

Conclusions

In a pragmatic setting, POP surgery results in a low rate of subsequent SUI procedures.
Understanding adefovir pharmacokinetics as a component of a transporter phenotyping cocktail
Authors: Dong Qian , Chen Chunli , Taubert Max , Bilal Muhammad , Kinzig Martina , Sörgel Fritz , Scherf-Clavel Oliver , Fuhr Uwe , Dokos Charalambos
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Adefovir (as dipivoxil) was selected as a probe drug in a previous transporter cocktail phenotyping study to assess renal organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1), with renal clearance (CLR) as the primary parameter describing renal elimination. An approximately 20% higher systemic exposure of adefovir was observed when combined with other cocktail components (metformin, sitagliptin, pitavastatin, and digoxin) compared to sole administration. The present evaluation applied a population pharmacokinetic (popPK) modeling approach to describe adefovir pharmacokinetics as a cocktail component in more detail.

Methods

Data from 24 healthy subjects were reanalyzed. After establishing a base model, covariate effects, including the impact of co-administered drugs, were assessed using forward inclusion then backward elimination.

Results

A one-compartment model with first-order absorption (including lag time) and a combination of nonlinear renal and linear nonrenal elimination best described the data. A significantly higher apparent bioavailability (73.6% vs. 59.0%) and a lower apparent absorption rate constant (2.29 h−1 vs. 5.18 h−1) were identified in the combined period compared to the sole administration period, while no difference was seen in renal elimination. The population estimate for the Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) of the nonlinear renal elimination was 170 nmol/L, exceeding the observed range of adefovir plasma maximum concentration, while the maximum rate (Vmax) of nonlinear renal elimination was 2.40 µmol/h at the median absolute estimated glomerular filtration rate of 105 mL/min.

Conclusion

The popPK modeling approach indicated that the co-administration primarily affected the apparent absorption and/or prodrug conversion of adefovir dipivoxil, resulting in the minor drug-drug interaction observed for adefovir as a victim. However, renal elimination remained unaffected. The high Km value suggests that assessing renal OAT1 activity by CLR has no relevant misspecification error with the cocktail doses used.
Clinical and laboratory characteristics of early-onset and delayed-onset lupus nephritis patients: A single-center retrospective study
Authors: Kosałka-Węgiel Joanna , Dziedzic Radosław , Siwiec-Koźlik Andżelika , Spałkowska Magdalena , Milewski Mamert , Żuk-Kuwik Joanna , Zaręba Lech , Bazan-Socha Stanisława , Korkosz Mariusz
Published: March 2024

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN) manifests systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is characterized by various clinical and laboratory features. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the characteristics of LN patients according to the time of LN diagnosis: early-onset (LN diagnosed within one year from SLE diagnosis) vs. delayed-onset (LN diagnosed more than one year after SLE diagnosis).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records from all SLE patients treated at the University Hospital in Kraków, Poland, from 2012 to 2022. We collected data on demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics, including histological findings, treatment modalities, and disease outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed to identify factors impacting LN development and prognosis.

Results

Among 331 LN patients, early-onset was diagnosed in 207 (62.54%) and delayed-onset was documented in 122 cases (36.86%). In 2 (0.6%) LN cases, the time of first kidney manifestation in the SLE course was unknown. Delayed-onset LN had a higher female-to-male ratio and younger age at SLE diagnosis. This group was associated with more severe clinical manifestations. In turn, studied subgroups did not differ in internist comorbidities, kidney histopathology, and family history regarding autoimmune diseases. Delayed-onset LN exhibited a higher frequency of anti-dsDNA, anti-Smith, anti-Ro, anti-RNP, and anti-cardiolipin IgG autoantibodies. During a 14-year follow-up period, 16 patients died. Mortality rate and causes of death were comparable in both analyzed subgroups.

Conclusions

More severe clinical manifestations in delayed-onset LN prompt strict monitoring of non-LN SLE patients to diagnose and treat kidney involvement early. Also, recognizing the higher frequency of autoantibodies such as anti-dsDNA or anti-Smith in delayed-onset LN underscores the potential value of autoantibody profiling as a diagnostic and prognostic tool.