bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of body mass index on abdominal injuries in motorcycle crashes in South Korea
Authors: Gwak Yonghun , Kim Dae Kon , Jeong Joo , Jo You Hwan , Lee Dong Keon , Park Seung Min , Choi Yeongho , Kim Yu Jin
Published: March 2024

Objective

Motorcyclists face a higher risk of severe morbidity and mortality compared to automobile passengers. This study aimed to determine the injury characteristics of motorcyclists according to their body mass index (BMI).

Methods

A retrospective observational cross‐sectional study was conducted using data from the Emergency Department‐based Injury In‐depth Surveillance (EDIIS) registry. Motorcycle riders aged 18 or older who were injured and admitted to study hospitals between 2019 and 2020 were included. Patients were divided into three groups based on BMI cutoffs of 18.5 and 25 kg/m2: the low, optimal, and high BMI groups. The primary outcome was anatomical injury location according to the abbreviated injury scale. The secondary outcomes were the surgery and intensive care unit admission rate, and the 48‐h and 30‐day in‐hospital mortality. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the impact of BMI on outcomes.

Results

Among 1280 patients, the low and high BMI groups had higher risk of abdominal injuries (AIS ≥ 2) than the optimal BMI group, with adjusted odds ratios of 2.82 (95% CI 1.41–5.63) and 1.61 (95% CI 1.17–2.21), respectively. Only the low BMI group had a significant association with severe abdominal injury (AIS ≥ 3), with an adjusted odds ratio of 3.11 (95% CI 1.31–7.39). No significant association was found between BMI and surgery, ICU admission, or mortality.

Conclusion

The low BMI group was more likely to have an abdominal injury (AIS score ≥2 or AIS score ≥3) during motorcycle injuries. BMI was not associated with surgery, ICU admission, or mortality.
Effects of a leave‐on product on the strength of the dermoepidermal junction: An exploratory, intraindividual, randomized controlled trial in older adults with dry skin
Authors: Amin Ruhul , Rancan Fiorenza , Hillmann Kathrin , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike , Vogt Annika , Kottner Jan
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Skin aging is associated with dry skin and a decrease of the strength of the dermoepidermal adhesion, which increases the risk for lacerations (skin tears). Application of leave‐on products improves dry skin and seems to reduce skin tear incidence. The aim of this study was to measure the effects of a humectant containing leave‐on product on the strength of the dermoepidermal junction in older adult participants with dry skin.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial using a split body design was conducted. One forearm was randomly selected and treated with a lipophilic leave‐on product containing 5% urea for 8 weeks. The other forearm was the control. The parameters stratum corneum hydration (SCH), transepidermal water loss, pH, roughness, epidermal thickness and skin stiffness were measured at the baseline, Weeks 4 and 8. At Week 8, suction blisters were created and time to blistering was measured. Blister roofs and interstitial fluid were analyzed for Interleukin‐1α, 6 and 8.

Results

Twelve participants were included. After 8 weeks treatment, SCH was higher (median difference 11.6 AU), and the overall dry skin score (median difference −1) and median roughness (Rz difference −12.2 µm) were lower compared to the control arms. The median group difference for Interleukin‐1α was −452 fg/µg total protein (TP) in the blister roofs and −2.2 fg/µg TP in the blister fluids. The median time to blister formation was 7.7 min higher compared to the control arms.

Conclusion

The regular application of humectant containing leave‐on products improves dry skin and seems to lower inflammation and contribute to the strengthening of the dermoepidermal adhesion. This partly explains how the use of topical leave‐on products helps to prevent skin tears.
Causal effects from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease on cholelithiasis: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Su Yin‐Shi , Lin Shuang‐Zhe , Chen Yuan‐Wen
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Both nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cholelithiasis are highly prevalent hepatobiliary diseases with risk of progression into severe outcomes. Considering the close relationship between liver and gallbladder in anatomy and physiology, a potential causal relationship between NAFLD and cholelithiasis has been speculated.

Methods

Mendelian randomization (MR) was employed using genome‐wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics in Million Veteran Program (MVP) for NAFLD, and statistics in UK biobank for cholelithiasis.

Results

Our results demonstrate that NAFLD has a causal effect on cholelithiasis risk (OR, 1.003; 95%CI, 1.000–1.006; p = 0.03). We also performed the sensitivity analysis and heterogeneity test to ensure the accuracy of outcome and avoid the reverse causality.

Conclusion

NAFLD should be regarded as a potential pathogenic factor in pathogenesis study of cholelithiasis, and be considered in assessment and treatment of cholelithiasis.
Study on chitosan/gelatin hydrogels containing ceria nanoparticles for promoting the healing of diabetic wound
Authors: Wu Yonghui , Wu Qianqian , Fan Xialian , Yang Lu , Zou Ling , Liu Qingshan , Shi Guangyou , Yang Xiaochao , Tang Keyong
Published: March 2024

Chronic inflammation at diabetic wound sites results in the uncontrolled accumulation of pro‐inflammatory factors and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which impedes cell proliferation and delays wound healing. To promote the healing of diabetic wounds, chitosan/gelatin hydrogels containing ceria nanoparticles (CNPs) of various sizes were created in the current study. CNPs' efficacy in removing , •OH, and H2O2 was demonstrated, and the scavenging ability of CNPs of varying sizes was compared. The in vitro experiments demonstrated that hydrogels containing CNPs could effectively protect cells from ROS‐induced damage and facilitate mouse fibroblast migration. Furthermore, during the treatment of diabetic wounds in vivo, hydrogels containing CNPs exhibited anti‐inflammatory activity and could reduce the expression of the pro‐inflammatory factors TNF‐α (above 30%), IL‐6 (above 90%), and IL‐1β (above 80%), and effectively promote wound closure (above 80%) by inducing re‐epithelialization, collagen deposition, and angiogenesis. In addition, the biological properties and therapeutic effects of hydrogels containing CNPs of various sizes were compared and discussed. The finding revealed that hydrogels with 4 nm CNPs exhibited more significant biological properties and had implications for diabetic wound treatment.
Boldine protects against carbon tetrachloride‐induced chronic liver injury by regulating NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Ezhilarasan Devaraj , Shree Harini Karthik , Karthick Munusamy , Lavanya Prathap
Published: March 2024

Sustained liver injuries predominantly promote oxidative stress and inflammation that lead to the progression of chronic liver disease (CLD), including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Boldine, an alkaloid isolated from Peumus boldus, has been shown to have antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. Currently, there is no definitive treatment option available for CLD. Therefore, we investigated the hepatoprotective effect of boldine against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced chronic liver injury in rats. CCl4 (2 mL/kg., b.w., i.p.) was administered twice weekly for 5 weeks to induce chronic liver injury in rats. Separate groups of rats were given boldine (20 mg/kg b.w., and 40 mg/kg b.w.) and silymarin (100 mg/kg b.w.) orally, daily. Serum transaminases, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant levels were measured, and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), cyclooxygenase‐2 (cox‐2), interleukin‐1 β (IL‐1β), and α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) gene and protein expressions were evaluated. CCl4 administration increased liver marker enzymes of hepatotoxicity in serum and oxidative stress markers, inflammatory genes and α‐smooth muscle actin expression in liver tissue. Boldine concurrent treatment suppressed CCl4‐induced elevation of transaminase levels in serum, restored enzymic and non‐enzymic antioxidants, and downregulated NF‐κB, TNF‐α, Cox‐2 and IL‐1β expressions, thereby suppressing hepatic inflammation. Boldine administration also repressed α‐SMA expression. The results of this study demonstrate the antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties of boldine, and it can be a potential therapeutic candidate in the treatment of CLD.
Recent progress in the preparation of theaflavins: “Synthesis, extraction and purification”
Authors: Wang Jingli , Li Xin , Liu Yidan , Xiong Yingzi , Zhang Can , Dong Yunxia , Li Maiquan , Liu Xia
Published: March 2024

Theaflavins (TFs) are a kind of bioactive compound that formed during the fermentation stage of black tea. TFs play a vital role both in the sensory quality and the biological activity of black tea. However, the complex composition of black tea and the low content of TFs in black tea (0.3%–0.7%) make the technology for the preparation of high‐purity TFs a great challenge. This review provides an updated overview for extracting, synthesizing and purifying of TFs. Molecular imprinting technology, an efficient method for extracting bioactive compounds, will be a promising method for the preparation of TFs with high purity. Overall, this review can provide a scientific basis and technical support for the preparation of TFs with high purity and will be helpful for the in‐depth development and further research of TFs.
Restraining the power of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras in the cage: A necessary and important refinement for therapeutic safety
Authors: Zhang Renshuai , Xie Songbo , Ran Jie , Li Te
Published: March 2024

Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) represent a significant advancement in therapeutic drug development by leveraging the ubiquitin‐proteasome system to enable targeted protein degradation, particularly impacting oncology. This review delves into the various types of PROTACs, such as peptide‐based, nucleic acid‐based, and small molecule PROTACs, each addressing distinct challenges in protein degradation. It also discusses innovative strategies like bridged PROTACs and conditional switch‐activated PROTACs, offering precise targeting of previously “undruggable” proteins. The potential of PROTACs extends beyond oncology, with ongoing research and technological advancements needed to maximize their therapeutic potential. Future progress in this field relies on interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of advanced computational tools to open new treatment avenues across various diseases.
Infrared thermal images using PCSAN‐Net‐DBOA: An approach of breast cancer classification
Authors: Vijayarajan S. M. , Manoj Kumar D. , Sudha G. , Reddy A. Basi
Published: March 2024

This manuscript proposes thermal images using PCSAN‐Net‐DBOA Initially, the input images are engaged from the database for mastology research with infrared image (DMR‐IR) dataset for breast cancer classification. The adaptive distorted Gaussian matched‐filter (ADGMF) was used in removing noise and increasing the quality of infrared thermal images. Next, these preprocessed images are given into one‐dimensional quantum integer wavelet S‐transform (OQIWST) for extracting Grayscale statistic features like standard deviation, mean, variance, entropy, kurtosis, and skewness. The extracted features are given into the pyramidal convolution shuffle attention neural network (PCSANN) for categorization. In general, PCSANN does not show any adaption optimization techniques to determine the optimal parameter to offer precise breast cancer categorization. This research proposes the dung beetle optimization algorithm (DBOA) to optimize the PCSANN classifier that accurately diagnoses breast cancer. The BCD‐PCSANN‐DBO method is implemented using Python. To classify breast cancer, performance metrics including accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, error rate, RoC, and computational time are considered. Performance of the BCD‐PCSANN‐DBO approach attains 29.87%, 28.95%, and 27.92% lower computation time and 13.29%, 14.35%, and 20.54% greater RoC compared with existing methods like breast cancer diagnosis utilizing thermal infrared imaging and machine learning approaches(BCD‐CNN), breast cancer classification from thermal images utilizing Grunwald‐Letnikov assisted dragonfly algorithm‐based deep feature selection (BCD‐VGG16) and Breast cancer detection in thermograms using deep selection based on genetic algorithm and Gray Wolf Optimizer (BCD‐SqueezeNet), respectively.

Research Highlights

The input images are engaged from the breast cancer dataset for breast cancer classification.

The ADQMF was used in removing noise and increasing the quality of infrared thermal images.

The extracted features are given into the PCSANN for categorization.

DBOA is proposed to optimize PCSANN classifier that classifies breast cancer precisely.

The proposed BCD‐PCSANN‐DBO method is implemented using Python.
Crowd control of ions in the Astral analyzer
Authors: Stewart Hamish , Grinfeld Dmitry , Petzoldt Johannes , Hagedorn Bernd , Skoblin Michael , Makarov Alexander , Hock Christian
Published: March 2024

Space charge effects are the Achilles' heel of all high‐resolution ion optical devices. In time‐of‐flight mass analyzers, these may manifest as reduction of resolving power, mass measurement shift, peak coalescence, and/or transmission losses, while highly sensitive modern ion sources and injection devices ensure that such limits are easily exceeded. Space charge effects have been investigated, by experiment and simulation study, for the astral multi‐reflection analyzer, incorporating ion focusing via a pair of converging ion mirrors, and fed by a pulsed extraction ion trap. Major factors were identified as the resonant effect between ~103 ions of similar m/z in‐flight and the expansion of trapped packets of ~104–5 ions prior to extraction. Optimum operation and compensated ion mirror calibration strategies were then generated and described based on these findings.
Human endogenous retrovirus type K encoded Np9 oncoprotein induces DNA damage response
Authors: Chen Jungang , Fan Jiaojiao , Lin Zhen , Dai Lu , Qin Zhiqiang
Published: March 2024

Human endogenous retrovirus sequences (HERVs) constitute up to 8% of the human genome, yet not all HERVs remain silent passengers within our genomes. Some HERVs, especially the HERV type K (HERV‐K), have been found to be frequently transactivated in a variety of inflammatory diseases and human cancers. Np9, a 9‐kDa HERV‐K encoded protein, has been reported as an oncoprotein and found present in a variety of tumors and transformed cells. In the current study, we for the first time reported that ectopic expression of Np9 protein was able to induce DNA damage response from host cells especially through upregulation of γH2AX. Furthermore, we found that direct knockdown of Np9 by RNAi in Kaposi's Sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) infected cells effectively reduced LANA expression, the viral major latent oncoprotein in vitro and in vivo, which may represent a novel strategy against virus‐associated malignancies.
Reasonable adjustments to application of the Medication Safety Standard for adult patients living with intellectual disability in Australian hospital settings
Authors: Wallace Robyn Anne
Published: March 2024

Purpose of review

Adults living with intellectual disability experience higher rates of preventable adverse medication events across the medicine pathway compared to their peers without disability.

Source of information

The Medication Safety Standard, developed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, describes systems and strategies to ensure that clinicians and health organisations safely prescribe, dispense, administer appropriate medications to informed patients, and monitor their use.

Key findings

Optimal application of the Medication Safety Standard for this population requires the development of reasonable adjustments to its action which take into account the barriers to safe medication management experienced by them in hospital settings. Design of such reasonable adjustments is influenced by consideration of the experiences of medicine management within with people living with intellectual disability, with intellectual disability, the roles of disability supports, and the disability‐health sector interface in relation to medication management.

Conclusion

This review describes the formulation of a range of practice point reasonable adjustments to the usual clinical processes, content, knowledge, and organisation required in application of the Medication Safety Standard for adult patients living with intellectual disability.
Higher satisfaction and function scores in restricted kinematic alignment versus mechanical alignment with medial pivot design total knee arthroplasty: A prospective randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ettinger Max , Tuecking Lare‐Rene , Savov Peter , Windhagen Henning
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Restricted kinematic alignment (rKA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and medial pivot (MP) knee designs already showed superior outcomes in independent comparative studies. The objective of this study was to assess whether rKA with MP TKA provides better clinical and functional outcomes compared to mechanical alignment (MA) with MP TKA.

Methods

This is a randomised, parallel two group study involving a total of 98 patients with end‐stage knee osteoarthritis. Patients were randomly allocated to either rKA or MA TKA procedures conducted with a MP prothesis using patient‐specific instruments between 2017 and 2020. Final follow‐up was at 2 years postoperatively. Demographic data and clinical and functional scores (Oxford knee score, knee society score [KSS], Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index [WOMAC], forgotten joint score [FJS]) were collected and compared preoperative, 1 year postoperative and 2 years postoperative. Coronal plane alignment of the knee and functional knee phenotype classification were recorded.

Results

A total of 47 patients (rKA) and 51 patients (MA) were included in final analysis. Superior joint awareness scores (FJS) were found at 1 year postoperative for rKA (62.2 vs. 52.4, p = 0.04). KSS subscores (expectation score, satisfaction score) improved with rKA with significant differences at both 1 and 2 years postoperatively. Major differences between rKA and MA were found in subgroup analysis of varus and neutral CPAK phenotypes. Both 1 year and 2 years postoperatively, FJS was significantly better in KA compared with MA in varus CPAK phenotypes (63.1 vs. 44.9, p = 0.03; 71.1 vs. 46.0, p = 0.005). Further clinical and functional scores showed improvement in the varus CPAK phenotypes with predominantly significant improvement in the expectation and satisfaction KSS subscores. No significant differences were found in the comparison of rKA and MA in neutral CPAK phenotypes.

Conclusion

The rKA of MP TKA design shows superior patient satisfaction and self‐reported function when compared to MA MP TKA. Furthermore, rKA MP TKA shows superior joint awareness at early postoperative stage. The most important clinical relevance of this study is the clear superiority of rKA in varus phenotypes.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
From clinical competence to human connection: A reflective journey to patient‐centred care
Authors: Gringras David
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This reflective essay explores a medical student's evolving understanding of the relative roles of technical and interpersonal skills in shaping the patient experience.

Methods

The author's personal reflections on the relative roles of technical and interpersonal skills are supplemented with discussion of relevant literature.

Results and Discussion

Initially focused on the technical aspects of medicine, the author's perspective shifts upon entering clinical practice. The essay begins by emphasising the importance of interpersonal skills in patient satisfaction, drawing on personal experiences from general practice and supporting literature. However, a pivotal experience on a respiratory ward reveals the profound impact of interpersonal skills on both patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes. With further reflection incorporating relevant literature, it becomes clear that this case in‐fact underscores the interplay between technical knowledge and interpersonal skills.

Conclusion

The reflective exploration concludes with the insight that these skillsets are not independent but interdependent and synergistic. The essay thus advocates for an integrated approach (combining technical expertise with strong interpersonal communication) to foster patient partnerships and enhance the overall patient experience.
The RNA‐binding protein sorbin and SH3 domain‐containing 2 are transcriptionally regulated by specificity protein 1 and function as tumor suppressors in bladder cancer by stabilizing tissue factor pathway inhibitor
Authors: Wang Beibei , Fan Xin , Wang Lingang , Wei Xiaosong
Published: March 2024

Sorbin and SH3 domain‐containing 2 (SORBS2) is an RNA‐binding protein and has been implicated in the development of some cancers. However, its role in bladder cancer (BC) is yet to be established. The expression of SORBS2 in BC tissues was determined from the Gene Expression Omnibus and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis databases and collected paired tumor/normal samples. The effects of SORBS2 on BC cells were detected by CCK‐8, colony formation, Transwell, dual‐luciferase, RNA immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and DNA pull‐down assays. In vivo, BC cell growth and metastasis were studied by a xenograft subcutaneous model and a tail‐vein metastasis model. The results showed that SORBS2 expression was significantly decreased in BC tissues and cells. SORBS2 overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition in vitro and tumor growth and metastasis in vivo, while silencing SORBS2 produced the opposite effect. Mechanistically, we found that SORBS2 enhanced the stability of tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) mRNA via direct binding to its 3′ UTR. Restoration of TFPI expression reversed SORBS2 knockdown‐induced malignant phenotypes of BC cells. In addition, SORBS2 expression was negatively regulated by the transcription factor specificity protein 1 (SP1). Conversely, SORBS2 can be transcriptionally regulated by SP1 and inhibit BC cell growth and metastasis via stabilization of TFPI mRNA, indicating SORBS2 may be a promising therapeutic target for BC.
Most recent advances and applications of extracellular vesicles in tackling neurological challenges
Authors: Kaur Mandeep , Fusco Salvatore , Van den Broek Bram , Aseervatham Jaya , Rostami Abdolmohamad , Iacovitti Lorraine , Grassi Claudio , Lukomska Barbara , Srivastava Amit K.
Published: March 2024

Over the past few decades, there has been a notable increase in the global burden of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Despite advances in technology and therapeutic options, neurological and neurodegenerative disorders persist as significant challenges in treatment and cure. Recently, there has been a remarkable surge of interest in extracellular vesicles (EVs) as pivotal mediators of intercellular communication. As carriers of molecular cargo, EVs demonstrate the ability to traverse the blood–brain barrier, enabling bidirectional communication. As a result, they have garnered attention as potential biomarkers and therapeutic agents, whether in their natural form or after being engineered for use in the CNS. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to EVs, encompassing various aspects such as their diverse isolation methods, characterization, handling, storage, and different routes for EV administration. Additionally, it underscores the recent advances in their potential applications in neurodegenerative disorder therapeutics. By exploring their unique capabilities, this study sheds light on the promising future of EVs in clinical research. It considers the inherent challenges and limitations of these emerging applications while incorporating the most recent updates in the field.
Scoring system related to retrograde percutaneous coronary intervention for coronary chronic total occlusion
Authors: Wen Song , Wang Jing , Huang Zehan , Huang Yuqing , Wang Feng , Zhang Bin
Published: March 2024

The retrograde approach is a principal procedure used in coronary chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention. However, the retrograde approach presents more challenges compared with the antegrade approach, as it is associated with a lower rate of success and a higher risk of complications. An accurate pre‐procedural evaluation of the complexity of a lesion could aid in the planning of the procedure, in estimating the procedure's duration, or in determining whether the patient should be referred to another center specializing in CTO‐PCI, as well as in a more precise evaluation of the risk‐benefit ratio. In recent years, multiple scoring systems have been created to forecast the success and efficiency of the retrograde procedure. However, each scoring system was developed independently, and comparative studies were lacking. This article provides a review of these scoring systems, offers an overview of the current state of the retrograde approach, and aims to stimulate further discussion on this topic.
New traveling‐wave solutions for a nonlinear Dodd–Bullough–Mikhailov equation
Authors: Tariq Kalim U. , Liu Jian‐Guo , Nisar Sana
Published: March 2024

In this article, we will present new and more general traveling‐wave solutions for the Dodd–Bullough–Mikhailov equation based on the extended Fan sub‐equation method. The two‐dimensional affine sphere's intrinsic geometry is determined by Dodd–Bullough in the three‐dimensional unimodular affine space. The most significant accomplishment of our method is that we are able to provide all forms of the previously obtained solutions in one action, using at least four different approaches. As a result, the general elliptic equation with five parameters can be connected to other sub‐equations with three parameters that already exist, such as the Riccati equation, the first sort of elliptic equation, the auxiliary ordinary equation, and the modified Riccati equation. The extended Fan sub‐equation method is utilized to construct traveling‐wave solutions, solitary wave solutions, dark soliton solutions, and bell soliton solutions for the nonlinear Dodd–Bullough–Mikhailov equation. Mathematica is utilized to depict the dynamics of various wave structures in 3D, 2D, and contour formats, utilizing a specific set of parameters. Our graphical comparative analysis suggests that the employed method is both reliable and powerful for obtaining exact solutions of nonlinear evolution equations. The approach employed in this study may also be applicable in enhancing the understanding of numerous other complex physical phenomena.
Realization of nonreciprocal acoustic energy transfer using an asymmetric strong nonlinear vibroacoustic system
Authors: Jin Jiangming , Huang Jingxiao , Xiao Yuepeng
Published: March 2024

In this paper, an asymmetric vibroacoustic system that can passively realize nonreciprocal transmission of acoustic energy is reported. This experimental system consists of a waveguide, a strongly nonlinear membrane, and three acoustic cavities with different sizes. The theoretical modeling of the system is verified by experiments, and parametric analysis is also carried out. These intensive studies reveal the nonreciprocal transmission of acoustic energy in this prototype system. Under forward excitation, internal resonance between the two nonlinear normal modes of the vibroacoustic system occurs, and acoustic energy is irreversibly transferred from the waveguide to the nonlinear membrane. However, under backward excitation, there is no internal resonance in the system. Energy spectra and wavelet analysis are used to highlight the mechanism of nonreciprocal transfer of acoustic energy. Consequently, nearly unidirectional (preferential) transmission of acoustic energy transfer is shown by this system. The nonreciprocal acoustic energy transfer method illustrated in this paper provides a new way to design the odd acoustic element.
Prevalence and predictors of female sexual dysfunction among sexually active women in the diabetes prevention program outcomes study
Authors: Gupta Priyanka , Doherty Lindsay , Temprosa Marinella , Pop‐Busui Rodica , Gadde Kishore M. , Singh Prachi , Owora Arthur H. , Wessells Hunter , Sarma Aruna V. ,   for the Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group
Published: March 2024

Objective

To determine the burden and identify correlates of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among women with prediabetes (PreD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) enrolled in the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Outcomes Study (DPPOS).

Methods

The DPPOS visit included the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to determine sexual function. Of 1464 participants, 1320 (90%) completed the (FSFI) and 426 were sexually active. A backward selection multivariable logistic regression model estimated the odds of FSD for sociodemographic, clinical, and diabetes‐related covariates.

Results

One hundred and eighty‐five (43%) had a score of ≤26.55 and met the criteria for FSD. After adjustment for DPP treatment and age, urinary incontinence (UI) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.15–3.17) and hysterectomy (OR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.01–3.53) were associated with increased odds of FSD. Increased body mass index was protective for FSD (OR = 0.93 per kg/m2, 95% CI = 0.89–0.96). Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument‐based peripheral neuropathy (mean±SD scores 1.1±1.3 vs. 0.9±1.1, p < 0.0001) and Electrocardiogram (ECG)‐based autonomic dysfunction measures (mean ± SD heart rate levels 64.3 ± 6.8 vs. 65.6 ± 10.2, p = 0.008) were associated with FSD. There were no differences in diabetes rates between women who did (66.5%) and did not (66%) have (p = 0.7).

Conclusions

FSD is prevalent in women with PreD and T2D. Our findings suggest that FSD is associated with neuropathic complications commonly observed in PreD and T2D.
Optimizing practices to prevent urinary tract infection after cystoscopy and urodynamics in women: A quality improvement study
Authors: Benseler Anouk , Tomlinson George , Lovatsis Danny , Alarab May , McDermott Colleen D.
Published: March 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to reduce the incidence of urinary tract infection (UTI) in women undergoing outpatient cystoscopy and/or urodynamic studies (UDS) at our centre by identifying and then altering modifiable risk factors through an analysis of incidence variability among physicians.

Methods

This was a quality improvement study involving adult women undergoing outpatient cystoscopy and/or UDS at an academic tertiary urogynecology practice. Prophylactic practices for cystoscopy/UDS were surveyed and division and physician‐specific UTI rates following cystoscopy/UDS were established. In consultation with key stakeholders, this delineated change concepts based on associations between prophylactic practices and UTI incidence, which were then implemented while monitoring counterbalance measures.

Results

Two “Plan‐Do‐Study‐Act‐Cycles” were conducted whereby 212 and 210 women were recruited, respectively. Change concepts developed and implemented were: (1) to perform routine urine cultures at the time of these outpatient procedures, and (2) to withhold routine prophylactic antibiotics for outpatient cystoscopy/UDS, except in patients with signs of cystitis. There was no change in the incidence of early presenting UTI (9.0% vs. 9.2%, p = 0.680), but there were significantly fewer antibiotic‐related adverse events reported (8.5% vs. 1.5%, p = 0.001). There was no significant change in the total incidence of UTI rates between cycles (7.8% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.649).

Conclusions

No specific strategies to decrease the incidence of UTI following outpatient cystoscopy/UDS were identified, however, risk factor‐specific antibiotic prophylaxis, as opposed to universal antibiotic prophylaxis, did not increase UTI incidence.
Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equation based on fractional random impulses system
Authors: Guo Yu , Dai Zhenyi
Published: March 2024

In this talk, we consider the optimal control problem for fractional order random impulses differential equations (), and there is no corresponding Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman (HJB) equation proposed for fractional order differential equations in existing literature. The lack of semi group properties in fractional order makes the original dynamic programming methods unable to directly handle fractional order problems. We have dealt with this problem by combining the properties of fractional order integrals. In solving this problem, we found that the order of the original system in HJB equation is at least 1. When the order is less than 1, our approach to fractional order ideas provides a possibility to solve the problem.
RETRACTED: Studies on improved stability and electrochemical activity of metal oxides/sulfides‐based polymer nanocomposites for energy storage applications
Authors: Xavier Joseph Raj
Published: March 2024

Poly (3‐methylthiophene) (P3MT) was modified by nickel oxide (NiO) and nickel sulfide (NiS) nanoparticles to enhance its electrochemical performance. The surface influence, crystalline structure, and electrochemical performance of the P3MT/NiO/NiS material were characterized and compared with that of pristine P3MT. It is found that surface modification can improve the structural stability of P3MT without decreasing its available specific capacitance. The electrochemical properties of synthesized P3MT/NiO/NiS electrode were evaluated using cyclic voltammetry and alternating current impedance techniques in 3 M KOH electrolyte. Specific capacitances of 253, 764, 932, and 1434 F g−1 were obtained for P3MT, P3MT/NiO, P3MT/NiS, and P3MT/NiO/NiS, respectively at 5 A g−1. This improvement is attributed to the synergistic effect of Ni2+ ions in the P3MT/NiO/NiS electrode material. The P3MT/NiO/NiS electrode in KOH has average specific energy and specific power densities of 1032 Wh kg−1 and 6192 W/kg, respectively. Only 2% of the capacitance's initial value is lost after 10,000 cycles. The resulting P3MT/NiO/NiS nanocomposite had very stable and porous layered structures. This work demonstrates that P3MT/NiO/NiS nanomaterials exhibit good structural stability and electrochemical performance, and are good material for supercapacitor applications.

Highlights

The P3MT/NiO/NiS nanocomposite is fabricated and characterized as supercapacitor electrode.

The incorporation of NiO/NiS in the poly (3‐methylthiophene) has improved the electrochemical performance.

The P3MT/NiO/NiS electrodes retained 98% of their specific capacitance after 10,000 cycles.

The P3MT/NiO/NiS nanocomposite electrode showed specific capacitance of 1434 F g−1 at 5 A g−1.

The stability of the nanocomposite was enhanced without altering its morphology and chemical structure.
High‐performance tetraphenylethene‐containing poly (p‐phenylene terephthalamide) paper with aggregation‐induced emission characteristics
Authors: Wu Bing , Gao Yufu , Zhang Wenlong , He Yaning
Published: March 2024

In the rapidly advancing era of intelligent technologies, the development of advanced materials characterized by high performance and functionality is considered a crucial aspect. A series of high‐performance functional polymers known as cis/trans‐tetraphenylethene‐containing poly (p‐phenylene terephthalamide) (cis/trans‐TPE‐PPTA), has been developed. These polymers exhibited typical aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics along with exceptional electrical and mechanical properties. It has been observed that addition ratios of cis/trans‐TPE‐2NH2 as the comonomer significantly influenced the properties of the cis/trans‐TPE‐PPTA paper. Specifically, when compared with pure poly (p‐phenylene terephthalamide) (PPTA), the homogeneous trans‐TPE‐PPTA paper at 10% trans‐TPE‐2NH2 addition ratio, fabricated using a hot‐pressing method, demonstrated significantly improved overall performance, including a substantial increase in tensile strength (97.4%) and dielectric strength (41.5%), as well as other favorable properties. This enhancement suggests promising prospects for numerous applications.
Clinical efficacy of montelukast sodium combination therapy for cough variant asthma in children: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Shihai , He Xia , Zhang Rixia
Published: March 2024

This meta‐analysis aims to assess the clinical effectiveness of combination therapy with montelukast sodium for the treatment of cough variant asthma (CVA) in children, intending to provide clinical evidence and data to guide the selection of clinical therapy. A literature review was conducted using numerous databases, including China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science, from inception to December 2023. Trials meeting the criteria for the combined treatment of montelukast sodium for CVA in children were included. Stata 16.0 software was utilized for meta‐analysis. The combined treatment group received montelukast sodium in addition to the control group, while the control group received budesonide, fluticasone propionate, salmeterol‐fluticasone, or ketotifen alone. This investigation included 18 papers. All subjects were from the Chinese population. Compared to the control group, the combined treatment group demonstrated a higher effective rate (relative ratio [RR] = 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18–1.29, p < .001), but no difference in the incidence of adverse reactions (RR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.42–1.02, p = .060) after treatment. Moreover, the peak expiratory flow (PEF) (SMD = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.09–2.30, p < .001), forced vital capacity (FVC) (SMD = 1.67, 95% CI: 0.94–2.39, p < .001), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (SMD = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.09–2.40, p < .001), and FEV1/FVC (SMD = 1.84, 95% CI: 0.41–3.28, p = .012) were significantly higher in the combined treatment group than in the control group after treatment. Compared with the control group, the levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α (SMD = −2.38, 95% CI: −3.22 to −1.55, p < .001), IL‐4 (SMD = −2.65, 95% CI: −3.26 to −2.04, p < .001), and IgE (SMD = −2.98, 95% CI: −3.24 to −2.72, p < .001) were significantly lower in the combined treatment group after treatment. The combined use of montelukast sodium in the treatment of pediatric CVA in China is associated with a significant clinical effect, making it a reasonable therapeutic approach.
In utero smoking exposure induces changes to lung clearance index and modifies risk of wheeze in infants
Authors: De Queiroz Andrade Ediane , Sena Carla Rebeca Da Silva , de Gouveia Belinelo Patricia , Robinson Paul D. , Blaxland Anneliese , Sly Peter D. , Murphy Vanessa E. , Gibson Peter G. , Collison Adam M. , Mattes Joerg
Published: March 2024

Background

Fetal exposure to tobacco smoking throughout pregnancy is associated with wheezing in infancy. We investigated the influence of in utero smoking exposure on lung ventilation homogeneity and the relationship between lung ventilation inhomogeneity at 7 weeks of age and wheezing in the first year of life.

Methods

Maternal smoking was defined as self‐reported smoking of tobacco or validated by exhaled (e)CO > 6 ppm. Lung function data from healthy infants (age 5–9 weeks) born to asthmatic mothers and parent‐reported respiratory questionnaire data aged 12 months were collected in the Breathing for Life Trial (BLT) birth cohort. Tidal breathing analysis and SF6‐based Multiple Breath Washout testing were performed in quiet sleep. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to assess associations.

Results

Data were collected on 423 participants. Infants born to women who self‐reported smoking during pregnancy (n = 42) had higher lung clearance index (LCI) than those born to nonsmoking mothers (7.90 vs. 7.64; p = .030). Adjusted regression analyzes revealed interactions between self‐reported smoking and LCI (RR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.07–3.63, 0.028, for each unit increase in LCI) and between eCO > 6 ppm and LCI (RR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.13–4.50, 0.022) for the risk of wheeze in the first year of life.

Conclusion

In utero tobacco smoke exposure induces lung ventilation inhomogeneities. Furthermore, an interaction between smoke exposure and lung ventilation inhomogeneities increases the risk of having a wheeze in the first year of life.
Classifying protein kinase conformations with machine learning
Authors: Reveguk Ivan , Simonson Thomas
Published: March 2024

Protein kinases are key actors of signaling networks and important drug targets. They cycle between active and inactive conformations, distinguished by a few elements within the catalytic domain. One is the activation loop, whose conserved DFG motif can occupy DFG‐in, DFG‐out, and some rarer conformations. Annotation and classification of the structural kinome are important, as different conformations can be targeted by different inhibitors and activators. Valuable resources exist; however, large‐scale applications will benefit from increased automation and interpretability of structural annotation. Interpretable machine learning models are described for this purpose, based on ensembles of decision trees. To train them, a set of catalytic domain sequences and structures was collected, somewhat larger and more diverse than existing resources. The structures were clustered based on the DFG conformation and manually annotated. They were then used as training input. Two main models were constructed, which distinguished active/inactive and in/out/other DFG conformations. They considered initially 1692 structural variables, spanning the whole catalytic domain, then identified (“learned”) a small subset that sufficed for accurate classification. The first model correctly labeled all but 3 of 3289 structures as active or inactive, while the second assigned the correct DFG label to all but 17 of 8826 structures. The most potent classifying variables were all related to well‐known structural elements in or near the activation loop and their ranking gives insights into the conformational preferences. The models were used to automatically annotate 3850 kinase structures predicted recently with the Alphafold2 tool, showing that Alphafold2 reproduced the active/inactive but not the DFG‐in proportions seen in the Protein Data Bank. We expect the models will be useful for understanding and engineering kinases.
Design of AsLOV2 domain as a carrier of light‐induced dissociable FMN photosensitizer
Authors: Felčíková Kristína , Hovan Andrej , Polák Marek , Loginov Dmitry S. , Holotová Veronika , Díaz Carlos , Kožár Tibor , Lee One‐Sun , Varhač Rastislav , Novák Petr , Bánó Gregor , Sedlák Erik
Published: March 2024

Flavin mononucleotide (FMN) is a highly efficient photosensitizer (PS) yielding singlet oxygen (1O2). However, its 1O2 production efficiency significantly decreases upon isoalloxazine ring encapsulation into the protein matrix in genetically encoded photosensitizers (GEPS). Reducing isoalloxazine ring interactions with surrounding amino acids by protein engineering may increase 1O2 production efficiency GEPS, but at the same time weakened native FMN–protein interactions may cause undesirable FMN dissociation. Here, in contrast, we intentionally induce the FMN release by light‐triggered sulfur oxidation of strategically placed cysteines (oxidation‐prone amino acids) in the isoalloxazine‐binding site due to significantly increased volume of the cysteinyl side residue(s). As a proof of concept, in three variants of the LOV2 domain of Avena sativa (AsLOV2), namely V416C, T418C, and V416C/T418C, the effective 1O2 production strongly correlated with the efficiency of irradiation‐induced FMN dissociation (wild type (WT) < V416C < T418C < V416C/T418C). This alternative approach enables us: (i) to overcome the low 1O2 production efficiency of flavin‐based GEPSs without affecting native isoalloxazine ring‐protein interactions and (ii) to utilize AsLOV2, due to its inherent binding propensity to FMN, as a PS vehicle, which is released at a target by light irradiation.
Explore the complexity of the migration for a rural population from the Philippines using sequence and graph analysis
Authors: Mialhe François , De Longueville Florence , Henry Sabine
Published: March 2024

This paper focuses on the migration pathways (MP) of individuals from a rural population in the Philippines. The succession of migrations undertaken by an individual and the role of previous migration(s) in subsequent migration have received relatively little attention in migration studies. The present paper fills this knowledge gap by identifying MP types and exploring links between migrations from a life course perspective. It develops a methodological framework based on sequence and graph analysis. Based on research conducted in Bohol (Philippines) using field data, the two methods are jointly used to reveal the diversity of MP. We focused on migrations done between the ages of 15 and 30. Typical MP were identified using hierarchical clustering. Socioeconomic data collected during surveys were used to characterise the types of MP (e.g., gender, education and age). Sequence analysis revealed six types of MP: some are common across the Philippines (e.g., the circular migration towards Mindanao until the 1970s), while others are specific to the area (e.g., permanent migration toward other places in Bohol). Graphs offer alternative representations of MP that allow to consider the shape of both individual and collective MP. The approach developed here is reproducible, easy to implement and contributes to a better understanding of the complexity of migration by looking at the migrants' histories.
Interacting Electrons in a Flat‐Band System within the Generalized Kadanoff–Baym Ansatz
Authors: Cosco Francesco , Tuovinen Riku , Lo Gullo Nicolino
Published: March 2024

In this work, the study of the spectral properties of an open interacting system by solving the generalized Kadanoff‐Baym ansatz (GKBA) master equation for the single‐particle density matrix, namely the time‐diagonal lesser Green's function, is reported. To benchmark its validity, the solution obtained within the GKBA is compared with the solution of the Dyson equation at stationarity. In both approaches, the interaction is treated within the self‐consistent second‐order Born approximation, whereas the GKBA still retains the retarded propagator calculated at the Hartree–Fock (HF) and wideband limit approximation level. The model chosen is that of two leads connected through a central correlated region where particles can interact and utilize the stationary particle current at the boundary of the junction as a probe of the spectral features of the system. The central region is chosen as the simplest model featuring a degenerate ground state with a flat band. The main result is that the solution of the GKBA master equation captures well the spectral feature of such system and specifically the transition from dispersionless to dispersive behavior of the flat band as the interaction is increased. Therefore, the GBKA solution retains the main spectral features of the self‐energy used even when the propagator is at the HF level.