bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel method for continuous measurements of clinical practice guideline adherence
Authors: Ebben Kees C.W.J. , de Kroon Cornelis D. , Schmeink Channa E. , van der Hel Olga L. , van Vegchel Thijs , Moncada‐Torres Arturo , de Hingh Ignace H.J.T. , van der Werf Jurrian
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Clinical practice guidelines (hereafter ‘guidelines’) are crucial in providing evidence‐based recommendations for physicians and multidisciplinary teams to make informed decisions regarding diagnostics and treatment in various diseases, including cancer. While guideline implementation has been shown to reduce (unwanted) variability and improve outcome of care, monitoring of adherence to guidelines remains challenging. Real‐world data collected from cancer registries can provide a continuous source for monitoring adherence levels. In this work, we describe a novel structured approach to guideline evaluation using real‐world data that enables continuous monitoring. This method was applied to endometrial cancer patients in the Netherlands and implemented through a prototype web‐based dashboard that enables interactive usage and supports various analyses.

Method

The guideline under study was parsed into clinical decision trees (CDTs) and an information standard was drawn up. A dataset from the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR) was used and data items from both instruments were mapped. By comparing guideline recommendations with real‐world data an adherence classification was determined. The developed prototype can be used to identify and prioritize potential topics for guideline updates.

Results

CDTs revealed 68 data items for recording in an information standard. Thirty‐two data items from the NCR were mapped onto information standard data items. Four CDTs could sufficiently be populated with NCR data.

Conclusion

The developed methodology can evaluate a guideline to identify potential improvements in recommendations and the success of the implementation strategy. In addition, it is able to identify patient and disease characteristics that influence decision‐making in clinical practice. The method supports a cyclical process of developing, implementing and evaluating guidelines and can be scaled to other diseases and settings. It contributes to a learning healthcare cycle that integrates real‐world data with external knowledge.
An Injectable Composite Hydrogel of Verteporfin‐Bonded Carboxymethyl Chitosan and Oxidized Sodium Alginate Facilitates Scarless Full‐Thickness Skin Regeneration
Authors: Yang Jiang‐Tao , Wu Dingwei , Li Jianping , Zhao Chenchen , Zhu Lian , Xu Chengchen , Xu Na
Published: September 2023

Full‐thickness skin defect has always been a major challenge in clinics due to fibrous hyperplasia in the repair process. Hydrogel composite dressings loaded with anti‐fibrotic drugs have been considered as a promising strategy for scarless skin regeneration. In this work, a hydrogel composite (VP‐CMCS‐OSA) of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) and oxidized sodium alginate (OSA), with loading anti‐fibrotic drug verteporfin (VP), is developed based on two‐step chemical reactions. Verteporfin is bonded with carboxymethyl chitosan through EDC/NHS treatment to form VP‐CMCS, and then VP‐CMCS is crosslinked with oxidized sodium alginate by Schiff base reaction to form VP‐CMCS‐OSA hydrogel. The characterization by SEM, FTIR, and UV–Vis shows the microstructure and chemical bonding of VP‐CMCS‐OSA. VP‐CMCS‐OSA hydrogel demonstrates the properties of high tissue adhesion, strong self‐healing, and tensile ability. In the full‐thickness skin defect model, the VP‐CMCS‐OSA composite hydrogels hasten wound healing due to the synergistic effects of hydrogels and verteporfin administration. The histological examination reveals the regular collagen arrangement and more skin appendages after VP‐CMCS‐OSA composite hydrogel treatment, indicating the full‐thickness skin regeneration without potential scar formation. The outcomes suggest that the verteporfin‐loaded composite hydrogel could be a potential method for scarless skin regeneration.
Sodium Alginate Hydrogel Carrier with Calcium Carbonate as Calcium Source for Ibuprofen Release
Authors: Lin Xiuling , Shi Jiali , Meng Ge , Yu Chen
Published: September 2023

Sodium alginate (SA) hydrogels crosslinked by calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and gluconolactone (GDL) are prepared and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry. The morphologies of the gel are observed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SA hydrogels are used as carriers of the anti‐inflammatory drug ibuprofen (IBU). The effects of GDL content, pH value, and temperature on IBU release behavior are investigated and associated kinetic analysis is performed. The results show that the cumulative release of IBU shows a trend of increasing and then decreasing with increased GDL content. The maximum cumulative release is observed when the molar ratio of calcium ions (Ca2+) in CaCO3 to GDL is 0.6. The release behavior of IBU is observed to be influenced by pH levels, and it exhibits an optimal release trend at a pH value of 7.4. The impact of temperature on the release behavior of IBU is relatively insignificant compared to other factors. The Korsmeyer–Peppas release kinetic model is well fitted and suitable to explain the release behavior of IBU from the sodium alginate hydrogel.
The molecular mechanism of Xiaoxuming decoction in the treatment of ischemic stroke based on network pharmacology and molecular docking
Authors: Li Xiang , Wang Peng , Zheng Kaixuan , Qi Shiqian , Tang Dan
Published: September 2023

Xiaoxuming decoction is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been widely used in the clinical treatment of ischemic stroke (IS). This study employed network pharmacology to identify the bioactive molecules and therapeutic mechanism of Xiaoxuming decoction against IS. First, the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database and analysis platform (TCMSP) was utilized to obtain the ingredients and potential target proteins related to IS in the Xiaoxuming decoction. Subsequently, known target proteins related to IS were collected from online Mendelian inheritance in man (OMIM), Disgenet, and Gencards databases. The mechanism of Xiaoxuming decoction against IS was identified by enrichment analysis of gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG). Additionally, protein–protein interaction data were obtained from the search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes/proteins (STRING). The hub gene was further screened out from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) and verified by molecular docking. The study identified a total of 183 candidate molecules and 140 targets related to IS. These candidate targets regulate biological processes including inflammation, autophagy, oxidative stress, and vascular reaction. Our findings provide a comprehensive demonstration of the active compounds, key targets, main signaling pathways, and underlying molecular mechanisms of Xiaoxuming decoction in treating IS.
On the application of high‐throughput experimentation and data‐driven approaches in metallic glasses
Authors: Xie Weijie , Wang Weihua , Liu Yanhui
Published: September 2023

Materials genome engineering (MGE) has been successfully applied in various fields, resulting in a series of novel materials with excellent performance. Significant progress has been made in high‐throughput simulation, experimentation, and data‐driven techniques, enabling the effective prediction, rapid synthesis, and characterization of many classes of materials. In this brief review, we introduce the achievements made in the field of metallic glasses (MGs) using MGE, in particular high‐throughput experimentation and data‐driven approaches. High‐throughput experiments help to efficiently synthesize and characterize many materials in a short period of time, enabling the construction of high‐quality material databases for data‐driven methods. Paired with machine learning, potential alloys of desired properties may be revealed and predicted. Along with the progress in computational power and algorithms of machine learning, the complex composition‐structure‐properties relationship is hopefully established, which in turn help efficient and precise prediction of new MGs.
A complex solution on the dynamic response of sandwich graphene‐reinforced aluminum‐based composite beams with copper face sheets under two moving constant loads on an elastic foundation
Authors: Eghbali Mohammadreza , Hosseini Seyed Amirhosein
Published: September 2023

An analytical solution was used to investigate the elastic response of a sandwich beam with a graphene‐reinforced aluminum‐based composite (GRAC) on an elastic foundation using copper as the face layer of the functionally graded composite beam and a simply supported boundary condition. Mantari's higher‐order shear deformation theory was utilized to derive the equations, which were solved in Laplace space and then converted into space–time using Laplace inversion. The exact response of the GRAC sandwich beam was obtained by considering the displacement at the mid‐span of the sandwich beam. Two moving loads with different speed ratios were applied at a single point, and the effect of various parameters, including the spring constant, the speed ratio, the percentage of graphene, the moving load speed, and the distribution pattern, was investigated. This study aimed to eliminate any overlap and improve the accuracy of the results. The exact solving method presented has not been reported in other articles so far. Additionally, due to the difficulty of solving mathematical equations, this method is only applicable to simple boundary conditions.
Spectacular Innovations and Global Outreach
Authors: Bhowmik Achin
Published: September 2023

This issue of Information Display continues to highlight key technologies and industry trends in the in‐depth reports from Display Week 2023. At the 60th annual international symposium and exhibition organized by the Society for Information Display (SID), Display Week once again lived up to its longstanding status as the premier global forum to experience the future of displays, imaging, and related technologies.
ID Asks/Charles Peng
Authors: Peruvemba Sri
Published: September 2023

Chairman and CEO of Tianma Microelectronics
AR/VR/MR Technologies and Display Metrology
Authors: Fiske Tom
Published: September 2023

Application advances for AR/VR/MR technology were a hot topic at Display Week, with a wealth of material to observe and digest.
Outdoor and Automotive Displays: Applications in Challenging Environments
Authors: Blankenbach Karlheinz
Published: September 2023

Automotive displays are a highly prosperous but demanding market with an increasing presence in the industry.
A pilot investigation of muscle integrity in patients with ADSSL1 myopathy using electrical impedance myography
Authors: Farid Alexander Rashad , Golden Emma , Hu Alice , Robicheau Sara , Rutkove Seward , Al‐Hertani Walla , Upadhyay Jaymin
Published: September 2023

Introduction/Aims

ADSSL1 myopathy (OMIM 617030) is a recently discovered, congenital myopathic disease caused by a pathogenic variant in ADSSL1. ADSSL1 is an enzyme involved in the purine nucleotide process and facilitates the conversion of inosine monophosphate to adenosine monophosphate within myocytes. Electrical impedance myography (EIM) is a portable, non‐invasive, and cost‐effective method for characterizing muscle integrity. Three ADSSL1 patients are presented in whom characterization of muscle integrity using EIM was performed.

Methods

A 15‐y‐old male, 20‐y‐old female, and 63‐y‐old male each with a pathogenic variant in ADSSL1 [c.901G > A] as well as three, age‐gender matched healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. Study participants were phenotyped using a virtual EIM procedure.

Results

ADSSL1 myopathy patients presented with variable onset of physical disability, disease progression, and severity of muscle weakness. Across multiple proximal and distal muscles groups and relative to HCs, ADSSL1 myopathy patients demonstrated lower phase and reactance values, while resistance was higher, which together indicated diseased muscle.

Discussion

EIM can provide a novel, non‐invasive and objective biomarker to evaluate muscle integrity in patients with ADSSL1 myopathy. Combining EIM with musculoskeletal imaging and histologic assessments in follow‐up studies may further inform on the pathophysiology of ADSSL1 myopathy.
Establishing an evaluation index system of nursing quality for clinical drug trials: A Delphi study
Authors: Chen Junyi , Zhou Huiyu , Mai Qingxiu , Chen Shuping , Liu Qingyin , Shi Mengyun , Lin Yunni , Yan Lihong , Li Meiyu , Ye Suiwen , Yao Herui
Published: September 2023

Aims

To construct a quality evaluation index system for clinical drug trials nursing management and obtain the weight of all indicators.

Design

A mixed‐method research design with a quantitative component was used, primarily qualitative.

Methods

Through a literature review and semi‐structured interview, an expert consultation questionnaire on the quality of nursing evaluation indicators for clinical drug trials was developed in April 2021. Eighteen experts in clinical drug trial nursing, medical, and pharmacy conducted 2 rounds of consultation according to the Delphi method to determine the indicators for evaluating the quality of clinical drug trial nursing. The weights of each indicator were determined using analytic hierarchical analysis.

Results

The established quality evaluation system of clinical drug trial nursing mainly includes 3 first‐level indicators, 12 second‐level indicators, and 59 third‐level indicators. The positive coefficients of the two rounds of expert consultation were 90%–100%, and the authority coefficients were 0.831 and 0.885, respectively; the coordination coefficients were 0.189 and 0.214, respectively. The consulting results and weight settings are reliable. The evaluation index system we constructed is in line with the characteristics of the clinical drug trial nursing profession, with clear index levels and strong clinical operability, which can provide a reference for the assessment, monitoring and improvement of nursing quality in clinical drug trials. It will also clarify how nurses contribute to subjects' safety.
Cooperation after social exclusion: To reconnect or to harm?
Authors: Đorić Stefan
Published: September 2023

Predicting a person's reaction after experiencing exclusion is an important question, which is accompanied by paradoxical answers. An excluded person may tend to harm others (antisocial reaction hypothesis), treat them with increased ingratiation (prosocial reaction hypothesis), or withdraw from further social contacts. The aim of this study was to test the hypotheses about the prosocial and antisocial responses in the social dilemma context, specifically, to examine whether social exclusion will result in reduced or increased cooperation in the Trust Game. The sample included 175 participants (females = 142), first‐ and second‐year psychology students. There was a between‐subject design 3 exclusion (exclusion vs. inclusion vs. neutral) × 2 history (known vs. unknown partner), with Social value orientation being treated as a covariate. Social exclusion was manipulated using the get‐acquainted paradigm, and the Trust Game was used to measure the willingness to cooperate. The level of social value orientation was measured using the Social Value Orientations (SVO) Slider Measure. Despite the successful manipulation of social exclusion, the results do not support studies showing that exclusion influences cooperation in a mixed‐motive situation. Only the main effects of the history were observed (p = .012, η2 = .04.), and social value orientation was a significant predictor of the level of cooperation (p ≤ .001, η2 = .08.). The conclusion is that the experience of social exclusion made participants no less able to analyze social cues and willing to cooperate in the Trust Game.
Perceptual contrast reduces the judgments of learning of small‐font words and increases the judgments of learning of large‐font words compared with the no‐contrast conditions
Authors: Wan Bowen , Zha Jinlian , Zheng Xiaoqian , Li Haifeng
Published: September 2023

The font‐size effect on judgments of learning (JOLs) refers to large‐font words being rated as more memorable than small ones when required to predict memory performance during the study phase. This study examines perceptual contrast as the prerequisite for this font‐size effect on JOLs and explores how perceptual contrast leads to this effect. In Experiment 1, perceptual contrast was achieved by inserting words with one font (e.g., 18 pt) into a series of words with another font (e.g., 70 pt) at a particular proportion (1:4). In Experiment 2, perceptual contrast was manipulated by presenting two different font words up and down in a pair. The results of both experiments showed that: (1) participants rated higher JOLs for large than small fonts under the contrast conditions, but the JOL difference between the two fonts was not significant under the no‐contrast conditions; (2) the JOLs of small‐font words under the contrast conditions was reduced compared with the no‐contrast conditions, but the JOLs of large‐font words under the contrast conditions was increased compared with the no‐contrast conditions. These results indicated that perceptual contrast was the prerequisite for the font‐size effect on JOLs. The reason for this effect is that, compared to no‐contrast conditions, perceptual contrast reduces the JOLs of small‐font words while increasing the JOLs of large‐font words. This study may deepen researchers' understanding of the mechanism of the font‐size effect on JOLs and help educators effectively guide students to learn.
Effects of root inoculation of entomopathogenic fungi on olfactory‐mediated behavior and life‐history traits of the parasitoid Aphidius ervi (Haliday) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Wilberts Liesbet , Vuts József , Caulfield John C. , Thomas Gareth , Withall David M. , Wäckers Felix , Birkett Michael A. , Jacquemyn Hans , Lievens Bart
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Although most biological control programs use multiple biological agents to manage pest species, to date only a few programs have combined the use of agents from different guilds. Using sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), the entomopathogenic fungus Akanthomyces muscarius ARSEF 5128, the tobacco peach aphid Myzus persicae var. nicotianae and the aphid parasitoid Aphidius ervi as the experimental model, we explored whether root inoculation with an entomopathogenic fungus is compatible with parasitoid wasps for enhanced biocontrol of aphids.

RESULTS

In dual‐choice behavior experiments, A. ervi was significantly attracted to the odor of M. persicae‐infested C. annuum plants that had been inoculated with A. muscarius, compared to noninoculated infested plants. There was no significant difference in attraction to the odor of uninfested plants. Myzus persicae‐infested plants inoculated with A. muscarius emitted significantly higher amounts of indole, (E)‐nerolidol, (3E,7E)‐4,8,12‐trimethyltrideca‐1,3,7,11‐tetraene and one unidentified terpene compared to noninoculated infested plants. Coupled gas chromatography‐electroantennography, using the antennae of A. ervi, confirmed the physiological activity of these elevated compounds. Inoculation of plants with A. muscarius did not affect parasitism rate nor parasitoid longevity, but significantly increased the speed of mummy formation in parasitized aphids on fungus‐inoculated plants.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that root inoculation of C. annuum with A. muscarius ARSEF 5128 alters the olfactory‐mediated behavior of parasitoids, but has little effect on parasitism efficiency or life‐history parameters. However, increased attraction of parasitoids towards M. persicae‐infested plants when inoculated by entomopathogenic fungi can accelerate host localization and hence improve biocontrol efficacy. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Electronic properties, quantum capacitance and photocatalyst for water splitting of Sc2CO2 MXene under uniaxial strain
Authors: Li Lu , Li Jin‐Hua , Hou Lei‐Lei , Li Xiao‐Hong , Zhang Rui‐Zhou , Cui Hong‐Ling
Published: September 2023

MXenes have wide applications because of the structural flexibility and compositional diversity. Quantum capacitance, electronic and photocatalytic properties of Sc2CO2 monolayer under uniaxial strains are investigated by first‐principles calculation. Sc2CO2 monolayer can withstand stress up to 13.96 N/M and about 14% tensile uniaxial strain limit. Sc2CO2 undergoes a transition from semiconductor to metal at −15% uniaxial strain. Sc2CO2 under uniaxial strains are only used for the water reduction at pH = 0. Sc2CO2 under uniaxial strains of −10%, −7%, −3%, 0%, and 4% within the appropriate pH scope are potential photocatalysts for water redox reaction. Sc2CO2 with −15% uniaxial strain is promising anode material, and Sc2CO2 with tensile uniaxial strain is more potential cathode material. Wide voltage improves the top quantum capacitance at negative bias under uniaxial strain and keeps the type of electrode materials. Quantum capacitance of Sc2C with mixed termination (Sc2CO0.59F1.19(OH)0.22) under uniaxial strain is explored. The introduction of uniaxial strain and mixed termination has little effect on the electrode type of Sc2CO2 MXene.
Fat emboli—Related diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (FEDAH) an acronym to remember—Case series
Authors: Williams Benjamin Earnest , Nair Avinash A. , James Prince , Isaac Barney , Gupta Richa , Ashok Anand
Published: September 2023

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a rare but potentially fatal complication of trauma or orthopaedic surgery, which presents predominantly with pulmonary symptoms. The rapid worsening respiratory failure in a previously normal orthopaedic surgery or trauma patients usually get evaluated for pulmonary embolism, fat‐embolism‐related acute respiratory distress or transfusion related acute lung injury. Orthopaedic surgeons and clinicians need to be aware of related entity termed ‘Fat Embolism related Diffuse Alveolar Haemorrhage’ (FEDAH). The clinical presentation in an orthopaedic surgery of trauma patient with FEDAH are haemoptysis, worsening type 1 respiratory failure and oxygen requirement, drop in haemoglobin levels with chest x‐ray/computed tomography suggestive of Diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (DAH). Early bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) confirmation of DAH, presence of BAL haemosiderophages and lipid‐laden macrophages are the pointers in the early diagnosis of FEDAH. It needs a high clinical suspicion and interdepartmental collaborative measures. Timely referral from orthopaedic surgeons, early bronchoscopy and treatment with steroids is key in diagnosis and management.
Analysis of trans‐domain motion process of bullet‐shaped trans‐domain amphibious vehicle
Authors: Gao Yong , Zhang Hao , Li Guigeng , Zhou Manli , Yin Hao , Gulliver T. Aaron
Published: September 2023

A fully functional prototype of a bullet‐shaped trans‐domain amphibious vehicle with the ability to perform reciprocating cross‐medium movements has been developed. Once the bullet‐shaped underwater vehicle completes its designated underwater tasks, upon reaching a suitable location for surface observation, it will transform into a bullet‐shaped coaxial counter‐propeller aircraft to carry out cross‐domain out‐of‐water and performing aerial flight missions. The successful transition of the vehicle into amphibious mode is attributed to the design of an innovative energy attitude multiplexing mechanism. Simultaneously, a rational and effective hybrid‐switching strategy has been proposed to enhance the reliability of the vehicle's amphibious mode transition. In view of the complex and changeable cross‐domain environment, we have adopted a modular design concept, breaking down the entire cross‐domain movement process into three key phases: air operation flight, transient cross‐domain, and underwater active sailing. Detailed theoretical analysis, algorithm design, and experimental research have been conducted for each phase. This paper proposes and expounds the key design principles, evaluates the performance indicators of key components, and weighs the matching of body dynamics and propulsion performance to ensure that the vehicle achieves the expected performance. Finally, the success of the test at different phases further proves that the vehicle has the ability to achieve complete cross‐domain operation.
Near‐Infrared Photothermal Manipulates Cellular Excitability and Animal Behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Zhuang Siyi , He Mubin , Feng Jiaqi , Peng Shiyi , Jiang Haochen , Li Yunhao , Hua Ning , Zheng Yujie , Ye Qizhen , Hu Miaojin , Nie Ying , Yu Peilin , Yue Xiaomin , Qian Jun , Yang Wei
Published: September 2023

Near‐infrared (NIR) photothermal manipulation has emerged as a promising and noninvasive technology for neuroscience research and disease therapy for its deep tissue penetration. NIR stimulated techniques have been used to modulate neural activity. However, due to the lack of suitable in vivo control systems, most studies are limited to the cellular level. Here, a NIR photothermal technique is developed to modulate cellular excitability and animal behaviors in Caenorhabditis elegans in vivo via the thermosensitive transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel with an FDA‐approved photothermal agent indocyanine green (ICG). Upon NIR stimuli, exogenous expression of TRPV1 in AFD sensory neurons causes Ca2+ influx, leading to increased neural excitability and reversal behaviors, in the presence of ICG. The GABAergic D‐class motor neurons can also be activated by NIR irradiation, resulting in slower thrashing behaviors. Moreover, the photothermal manipulation is successfully applied in different types of muscle cells (striated muscles and nonstriated muscles), enhancing muscular excitability, causing muscle contractions and behavior changes in vivo. Altogether, this study demonstrates a noninvasive method to precisely regulate the excitability of different types of cells and related behaviors in vivo by NIR photothermal manipulation, which may be applied in mammals and clinical therapy.
Alastair Robert Wilson Porter
Authors: Barr Frances
Published: September 2023

As registrar of the RCVS for 25 years, he saw many changes to the veterinary profession.
From tourism dream to veterinary team: a total career change to become a vet tech
Authors: Cox Emily
Published: September 2023

Her ambition was to work in the leisure and tourism industry, but things changed for Emily Cox when she applied for a veterinary receptionist role and soon found a niche in the farm side of the practice
Experimental study of the wake interaction between two vertical axis wind turbines
Authors: Huang Ming , Vijaykumar Patil Yugandhar , Sciacchitano Andrea , Ferreira Carlos
Published: September 2023

Wakes and wake interactions in wind turbine arrays diminish energy output and raise the risk of structural fatigue; hence, comprehending the features of rotor–wake interactions is of practical relevance. Previous studies suggest that vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) can facilitate a quicker wake recovery. This study experimentally investigates the rotor–wake and wake–wake interaction of VAWTs; different pitch angles of the blades of the upwind VAWT are considered to assess the interactions for different wake deflections. With stereoscopic particle image velocimetry, the wake interactions of two VAWTs are analysed in nine distinct wake deflection and rotor location configurations. The time‐average velocity fields at several planes upwind and downwind from the rotors are measured. Additionally, time‐average loads on the VAWTs are measured via force balances. The results validate the rapid wake recovery and the efficacy of wake deflection, which increases the available power in the second rotor.
The Matsudai Knee Osteoarthritis Survey showed the longitudinal changes of knee phenotypes in alignment and structure during 23–28 years
Authors: Tomiyama Yasuyuki , Mochizuki Tomoharu , Koga Hiroshi , Omori Go , Koga Yoshio , Tanifuji Osamu , Nishino Katsutoshi , Endo Kazuo , Endo Naoto , Kawashima Hiroyuki
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The longitudinal changes in alignment and structure, including the joint line and cortical bone thickness (CBT) of the femur and tibia, and knee phenotype in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) remain unknown. The aim of this retrospective study was to clarify the longitudinal changes in matched healthy subjects.

Methods

The follow‐up Matsudai Knee Osteoarthritis Survey was administered between 23 and 28 years. This study included 285 healthy knees from 235 females with an average age of 53 ± 6 years at baseline. The non‐OA individuals, with an average age of 79 ± 4 years, were divided into three groups at baseline according to their follow‐up radiographic results [the non‐OA (n = 52), early OA (n = 131), and advanced OA groups (n = 102)]. Changes in alignment, joint line, CBT, and knee phenotype were assessed at baseline and at follow‐up using standing anteroposterior radiographs.

Results

This study showed significant varus changes in the alignment (p < 0.001) and tibial and femoral joint line parameters (p < 0.05) in the OA group. Decreased CBT and increased mediolateral CBT ratios were observed in all groups (p < 0.001). The knee phenotypes in the OA groups were changed to varus angles, especially in the alignment and tibial joint line.

Conclusions

The longitudinal changes of knee phenotypes in alignment and structure (CBT and joint line) from baseline to follow‐up were shown in the OA groups. In addition, alignment and tibial structural factors at baseline are useful in predicting the incidence of knee OA in daily practice.

Levels of evidence

III.
Sex differences in children operated with pyeloplasty for pelvoureteric junction obstruction
Authors: Högberg Linnea , Värelä Sanni , Anderberg Magnus , Salö Martin
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Pelvoureteric junction obstruction (UPJO) is a common cause of hydronephrosis in children but no previous studies have evaluated differences between boys and girls operated with pyeloplasty. This study aimed to evaluate potential differences between sexes in children operated with pyeloplasty for PUJO in terms of presentation, surgery, and long-term results.

Methods

Data was retrospectively collected from all children operated on with pyeloplasty between January 2002 and December 2020. Data contained several variables covering presentation, surgery, and long-term results.

Results

In total, 194 patients were included of which 126 (64.9%) were boys. There were no significant differences in prenatal findings, pelvic dilation on ultrasound, function of the affected kidney, surgical method, obstruction type, resolution of hydronephrosis, or improvement of function. Boys presented with pain more often than girls (47.4 vs 25.0%, p < 0.01) while girls were more prone to infections preoperatively (17.2 vs 7.0%, p = 0.04). All nine patients requiring reoperation were boys (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Girls with UPJO seem to experience infections as presenting symptoms more often than boys, while boys significantly more often present with pain. There is also a higher percentage of boys needing reoperation.
Updated Austrian treatment algorithm for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Bartsch Rupert , Rinnerthaler Gabriel , Petru Edgar , Egle Daniel , Gnant Michael , Balic Marija , Sliwa Thamer , Singer Christian
Published: September 2023

Approximately 15% of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients have neither hormone receptors expression nor HER2 overexpression and/or HER2/neu gene amplification. This subtype of breast cancer is known as Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), and carries a significantly elevated risk of local and distant recurrence. In comparison with other breast cancer subtypes, there is a higher rate of visceral and brain metastases. The majority of metastases of TNBC are diagnosed within three years after initial breast cancer diagnosis. While there have been major advances in hormone-receptor- positive and in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive disease over the past two decades, only limited improvements in outcomes for patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) have been observed. A group of Austrian breast cancer specialists therefore convened an expert meeting to establish a comprehensive clinical risk-benefit profile of available mTNBC therapies and discuss the role sacituzumab govitecan may play in the treatment algorithm of the triple-negative breast cancer patients.
Differential trends in prolonged sitting time in Europe: a multilevel analysis of European Eurobarometer data from 2013 to 2022
Authors: Beller Johannes , Graßhoff Julia , Safieddine Batoul
Published: September 2023

Aim

Sitting time is a modifiable risk factor for morbidity and mortality. However, only a few studies have examined how prolonged sitting time has changed over time. Thus, we examined time trends in prolonged sitting time and how trends differ according to sociodemographic groups (age, gender, region, education, income, occupation).

Subject and methods

We used data from three population-based Eurobarometer surveys conducted in 2013, 2017 and 2022, comprising responses from N = 73448 participants aged 15 years and older from 26 European countries. Multilevel logistic regression models were applied.

Results

We found differential trends in the odds of prolonged sitting time over the study period. Sitting time significantly increased among middle-aged participants (21-65 years; OR = 1.14, 95%-CI = [1.07; 1.22]), decreased among adolescents (15-20 years; OR = 0.74, 95%-CI = [0.62; 0.88]), and remained relatively stable for older adults (66+ years; OR = 0.94, 95%-CI = [0.84; 1.06]). Furthermore, the increases in middle-aged adults were most strongly observed in those with manual jobs (OR = 1.36, 95%-CI = [1.16; 1.60]) those unemployed (OR = 2.36, 95%-CI = [1.92; 2.89]), and those with income difficulties (e.g., OR = 1.72, 95%-CI = [1.40; 2.11]).

Conclusion

Thus, trends in sitting time in Europe are differential and not homogeneous: Prolonged sitting time has decreased or remained stable in some subgroups and increased in others. Especially middle-aged participants with a lower socioeconomic status showed increasing prolonged sitting times over the study period. Tailored interventions are needed to target most at-risk groups.
Evaluation of an artificial intelligence-based system for echocardiographic estimation of right atrial pressure
Authors: Zamzmi Ghada , Hsu Li-Yueh , Rajaraman Sivaramakrishnan , Li Wen , Sachdev Vandana , Antani Sameer
Published: September 2023

Current noninvasive estimation of right atrial pressure (RAP) by inferior vena cava (IVC) measurement during echocardiography may have significant inter-rater variability due to different levels of observers’ experience. Therefore, there is a need to develop new approaches to decrease the variability of IVC analysis and RAP estimation. This study aims to develop a fully automated artificial intelligence (AI)-based system for automated IVC analysis and RAP estimation. We presented a multi-stage AI system to identify the IVC view, select good quality images, delineate the IVC region and quantify its thickness, enabling temporal tracking of its diameter and collapsibility changes. The automated system was trained and tested on expert manual IVC and RAP reference measurements obtained from 255 patients during routine clinical workflow. The performance was evaluated using Pearson correlation and Bland-Altman analysis for IVC values, as well as macro accuracy and chi-square test for RAP values. Our results show an excellent agreement (r=0.96) between automatically computed versus manually measured IVC values, and Bland-Altman analysis showed a small bias of $$-$$
-
0.33 mm. Further, there is an excellent agreement ($$(p<0.01$$

(
p
<
0.01

) between automatically estimated versus manually derived RAP values with a macro accuracy of 0.85. The proposed AI-based system accurately quantified IVC diameter, collapsibility index, both are used for RAP estimation. This automated system could serve as a paradigm to perform IVC analysis in routine echocardiography and support various cardiac diagnostic applications.
Food insecurity and kidney disease: a systematic review
Authors: Ferrara Francesca , Siligato Rossella , Di Maria Alessio , Scichilone Laura , Di Simone Emanuele , Bondanelli Marta , Storari Alda , De Giorgi Alfredo , Di Muzio Marco , Fabbian Fabio
Published: September 2023

Background

The risk of developing and worsening chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with unhealthy dietary patterns. Food insecurity is defined by a limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate and safe food; it is also associated with several chronic medical conditions. The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the current knowledge about the relationship between food insecurity and renal disease.

Methods

We selected the pertinent publications by searching on the PubMed, Scopus, and the Web of Science databases, without any temporal limitations being imposed. The searching and selecting processes were carried out through pinpointed inclusion and exclusion criteria and in accordance with the Prisma statement.

Results

Out of the 26,548 items that were first identified, only 9 studies were included in the systemic review. Eight out of the nine investigations were conducted in the US, and one was conducted in Iran. The studies evaluated the relationship between food insecurity and (i) kidney disease in children, (ii) kidney stones, (iii) CKD, (iv) cardiorenal syndrome, and (v) end stage renal disease (ESRD). In total, the different research groups enrolled 49,533 subjects, and food insecurity was reported to be a risk factor for hospitalization, kidney stones, CKD, ESRD, and mortality.

Conclusions

The relationship between food insecurity and renal disease has been underestimated. Food insecurity is a serious risk factor for health problems in both wealthy and poor populations; however, the true prevalence of the condition is unknown. Healthcare professionals need to take action to prevent the dramatic effect of food insecurity on CKD and on other chronic clinical conditions.
Justification and Motivation
Authors: Edwards James
Published: September 2023

According to the motivational thesis (MT), we are justified in performing an action if and only if we perform that action for the right reason(s). Proponents of MT disagree about how it is best interpreted—about what count as reasons of the right kind. In Fundamentals of Criminal Law, Andrew Simester criticises an interpretation offered by John Gardner. Here, I explore some of Simester's reasons for objecting to that interpretation, and I argue—partly on the basis of those same reasons—that Simester's own interpretation of MT should be revised. I conclude with a preliminary defence of an alternative interpretation, which I call the tripartite view of justification.
Parametric configuration and programming of flexible robotic cells producing biotechnology experiments
Authors: Angelidou Charikleia , Benardos Panorios , Vosniakos George-Christopher
Published: September 2023

In the last decades there has been an ever-increasing trend of accelerated scientific research in the biotechnology sector and the COVID-19 pandemic has further emphasized the need for high-throughput yet flexible processes. Even though automation has gained significant popularity to deal with this problem, the focus has been placed at laboratory level and for specific type of processes only. The aim of these automation applications is to offset the increasing costs of clinical trials, automate tedious laboratory work, run experiments in parallel and make scientific testing efficient and programmable. This paper investigates the application of robotic systems at a larger scale that will allow the automated execution of even custom defined biotechnology experiments so that these can be offered as a service to any interested stakeholder. A digital model of the proposed robotic biotechnology workcell is developed and the necessary methodology is investigated to showcase the feasibility of this approach. The goal is to use the digital model for evaluating different design considerations, such as equipment layout and robot types, as well as for planning and simulating the robot operation under various offline programming strategies. To achieve this goal, the Damped Least Squares Method is used for inverse kinematics control and a robotic arm trajectory planner is developed parametrically using characteristic intermediate points so as to create a motion plan that can be used for any robotic manipulator and any experiment within a family of facility setups. Two experiments are simulated using a SCARA robot and an articulated arm robot, each with an alternative cell layout to show the flexibility and robustness of the proposed approach. The obtained results show that the trajectory planner can consistently generate appropriate motion plans.
Synthesis of Mg–K-biochar bimetallic catalyst and its evaluation of glucose isomerization
Authors: Kang Xiheng , You Zi , Peng Jian , Ragauskas Arthur J. , Pang Jingdong , Zhao Peitao , Yin Yongjun , Song Xueping
Published: September 2023

Highly efficient isomerization of glucose to fructose is essential for valorizing cellulose fraction of biomass to value-added chemicals. This work  provided an innovative method for preparing Mg-biochar and Mg–K-biochar catalysts by impregnating either MgCl2 alone or in combination with different K compounds (Ding et al. in Bioresour Technol 341:125835, 2021, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2021.125835 and KHCO3) on cellulose-derived biochar, followed by hydrothermal carbonization and pyrolysis. Single active substance MgO existing in the 10Mg–C could give better catalytic effect on glucose isomerization than the synergy of MgO and KCl crystalline material present in 10Mg–KCl–C. But the catalytic effect of 10Mg–C was decreased when the basic site of MgO was overloaded. Compared to other carbon-based metal catalysts, 10Mg–KHCO3–C with 10 wt% MgCl2 loading had  excellent catalytic performance, which gave  a higher fructose yield (36.7%) and selectivity (74.54%), and catalyzed excellent glucose conversion (53.99%) at 100 °C in 30 min. Scanning electron microscope–energy dispersive spectrometer and X-Ray diffraction revealed that the distribution of Mg2+ and K+ in 10Mg–KHCO3–C  was uniform and the catalytic active substances (MgO, KCl and K2CO3) were more than 10Mg–C (only MgO). The synergy effects of MgO and K2CO3 active sites enhanced  the pH of reaction system and  induced H2O ionization to form considerable OH− ions, thus easily realizing a deprotonation of glucose and effectively catalyzing the isomerization of glucose. In this study, we developed a highly efficient Mg–K-biochar bimetallic catalyst for glucose isomerization and provided  an efficient method for cellulose valorization.

Graphical Abstract
Higher education and social responsibility: a proposal for internationalization of university—community engagements; perspectives from Uganda
Authors: Amutuhaire Tibelius
Published: September 2023

One of the traditional missions for universities was community service which was updated to entail community engagement. Community engagement is a component of the internationalization of higher education which aspires to improve service delivery within society. Though universities in Uganda have always engaged with communities, they have always done so disregarding the international dimension of higher education. Simultaneously, contemporary approaches to internationalization are primarily concerned with scholarly debate and discussion of societal challenges. However, merging internationalization with community engagement would better serve local and global communities. This is now more relevant considering global challenges such as COVID-19, terrorism, and climate change. Universities should now work more closely with communities to enrich scholarship, contribute to public good aims, and address the current critical social issues. Therefore, university–community engagement should go beyond institutional and disciplinary boundaries that restrict possibilities for fruitful engagement with local and global communities in today’s rapidly changing world. This paper explores the international dimension of community engagement in Uganda’s universities. Using a narrative literature review, the paper highlights how to merge internationalization with community engagement without reproducing inequalities but emphasizing fairness and social justice. The paper holds that community engagement should be integrated into the broader internationalization agenda of universities for better service delivery.
Capital Shortage
Authors: Nath Maanik
Published: September 2023

The great majority of the population in colonial and postcolonial India lived in the countryside and were poor. Many were unable to find gainful work outside agriculture and remained dependent on a livelihood that provided only subsistence, and a precarious one. Seeking the roots of persistent poverty, Maanik Nath finds that the pervasive high cost and shortage of capital affected the peasant's ability to invest in land. The productivity of land, as a result, remained small and changed little. Bridging economic theory and historical evidence, Capital Shortage shows that climate, law, policy design, and interactions between these factors, perpetuated a stubborn cycle of low investment and widespread deprivation over several decades. These findings can be tested against credit and development in preceding and succeeding periods as well as positioned in comparative global context.
Anti-Corruption in a Party-State: Constitutional Implications of China's Supervisory Reform
Authors: Lee James WC
Published: September 2023

The 2018 amendments to the People's Republic of China (PRC) Constitution saw the establishment of a system of supervisory commissions, which is a landmark development not only for anti-corruption, but also constitutional law in China. After providing an overview of the background and legal framework of the reform, this article discusses its constitutional implications from three perspectives. First, the reform alters the long-established state structure and creates interesting dynamics of institutional interactions among various branches of state structure. Second, it marks a reversal from the principle of ‘party-state separation’ and raises difficult issues of interface and transition between the party disciplinary system and the formal legal system. Finally, it legalises the previously extralegal practice of shuanggui (‘double specifications’) and affects the individual rights of those subject to investigation. The article concludes with some brief reflections on what this development indicates for the future of the rule of law in China, and highlights the potential for further research.