bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteins in Luminal Fluid of the Ram Excurrent Ducts: Change in Composition and Evidence for Differential Endocytosis
Authors: VEERAMACHANENI D. N. RAO , AMANN RUPERT P. , PALMER JENNIFER S. , HINTON BARRY T.
Published: October 2023

Rete testis fluid (RTF) and luminal fluid collected by micropuncture at selected epididymal sites were analyzed to characterize the spectrum of proteins and to quantify the net gain or loss of total/bulk protein and androgen‐binding protein (ABP) between successive regions within the ductus epididymidis. Based on one‐dimensional SDS gel electrophoresis, the spectra of proteins in RTF and fluids from the proximal, central, and distal caput through proximal corpus epididymidis differed from each other. Concentrations of sperm, bulk protein, and ABP increased from the rete testis through the central caput epididymidis. Electron microscopic studies following intraluminal microinjections of RTF proteins conjugated to colloidal gold at specific sites in the excurrent ducts revealed that 145 times more protein‐gold was endocytosed in the ductuli efferentes than in any of the four regions of the caput epididymidis. Thus, ductuli efferentes were the major extra‐testicular site of endocytosis of bulk protein present in RTF; at least a portion of the uptake was specific. On a per sperm basis, the amount of protein present in the central caput epididymidis was < 15% of that leaving the testis. Although most of the protein present in RTF (≥ 86 mg/d) must be absorbed in the ductuli efferentes and the initial segment of the epididymis and replaced by newly secreted proteins (≥ 34 mg/d), there was negligible loss of ABP in these regions. Net loss of ABP occurred primarily in the distal caput and proximal corpus epididymidis. These studies demonstrate that ABP is spared from endocytosis along with the bulk protein in RTF and conserved for functions in epididymal regions far distal to the site of bulk protein loss.
Characterization of Sulfhydryl Proteins Involved in the Maintenance of Flagellar Straightness in Hamster Spermatozoa
Authors: CORNWALL GAIL A. , CHANG T. S. K.
Published: October 2023

Hamster caput epididymal spermatozoa exhibit a marked 90–180° bend when induced to acquire progressive motility in vitro (Cornwall et al, 1988). Flagellar bending is prevented by oxidizing sperm sulfhydryl (SH) groups with diamide. In the present study, the authors examined the SH proteins involved in sperm flagellar bending using two‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and monobromobimane, an SH‐specific fluorescent dye. Proteins extracted from samples containing bent caput spermatozoa contained more reduced SH than the same proteins extracted from straight caput spermatozoa. To further characterize these sperm SH proteins, caudal epididymal spermatozoa that exhibited straight flagella were induced to undergo flagellar bending by treatment with the SH reductant dithiothreitol. Specific proteins of 85–94 kDa, 50–55 kDa and 35–40 kDa, which were rich in SH groups when extracted from samples containing bent caput spermatozoa, were also SH‐rich in samples containing bent cauda spermatozoa. These studies suggest that oxidation of specific SH proteins may be important for maintaining sperm flagellar morphology.
Characterization of a New Superfusion, Two‐Compartment Culture System for Sertoli Cells: Influence of Extracellular Matrix on the Cell Permeability and Dynamics of Transferrin Secretion
Authors: GUILLOU F.
Published: October 2023

A new superfusion two‐compartment culture system was developed in the laboratory of the author and was used to investigate the influence of testicular extracellular matrix on barrier formation by Sertoli cells in culture, and the acute dynamic changes in the bidirectional secretion of transferrin. Only Sertoli cells growing on extracellular matrix formed a monolayer that was specifically impermeable to inulin, peroxidase, and FSH, but did not affect the passage of testosterone. Moreover, in these conditions, they were highly polarized morphologically. The bidirectional secretion (basal/apical ratio) of transferrin was affected by the duration of the stationary culture preceding the superfusion. After 2 days of culture, the amount of transferrin secreted during the subsequent 20 h superfusion was higher in the basal chamber than in the apical chamber. In contrast, after 5 days of culture, the amount of secreted transferrin was higher in the apical compartment. The author compared his data with those previously reported by other authors, using stationary two‐compartment chambers.
Kinematics of Human Spermatozoa Incubated Under Capacitating Conditions
Authors: MORTIMER S. T. , MORTIMER D.
Published: October 2023

Suspensions of seminal plasma‐free human spermatozoa were prepared by swim‐up from semen and studied using high magnification videomicrography after incubation under capacitating conditions for 1.5–2 h. Three sub‐populations of capacitating spermatozoa showing different patterns of motility could be distinguished visually: forward progressive, transition phase, and hyperactivated motility. The purpose of this study was not to determine the relative proportions of spermatozoa in these three categories but to describe their movement characteristics. Manual track plotting and analysis allowed value derivation for the curvilinear, average path and straight‐line velocities (VCL, VAP, and VSL respectively); for the three progression ratios of linearity (LIN = VSL ÷ VCL X 100), straightness (STR = VSL ÷ VAP X 100), and wobble (WOB = VAP ÷ VCL X 100); and also for the amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) and the beat/cross frequency (BCF). Algorithms produced from these motion characteristics allowed distinctions to be made between cell motility patterns. Spermatozoa with straight‐line velocity (VSL) ≥ 40 μm/s, linearity (LIN) ≥ 60% and amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) < 5 μm were FP or non‐hyperactivated. Tracks with curvilinear velocity (VCL) ≥ 100 μm/s, linearity (LIN) < 60% and amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) ≥ 5 μm showed concomitants of hyperactivation. Classical hyperactivated tracks also showed straightness (STR) < 60% and straight‐line velocity (VSL) < 30 μm/s.
Assessment of the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Testicular Function in Male Patients with Wilson's Disease
Authors: FRYDMAN MOSHE , KAUSCHANSKY ARIEH , BONNE‐TAMIR BATSHEVA , NASSAR FARES , HOMBURG ROY
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Sixteen male patients with Wilson's disease were studied to detect potential endocrine dysfunctions. There was no clinical evidence of feminization in any of the patients, and the patient group spanned most pubertal stages. Gonadotropin, testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, androstenedione, estradiol, prolactin, cortisol, thyrotropin, and free thyroxine levels were determined. Low or borderline luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were present in most of the patients. In six of the adult patients, a standard gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) test was performed. Five of the six patients had blunted LH and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) responses to GnRH. Increased androgen levels were found in eight of the patients. Sex hormone binding globulin was normal in eight of nine tested patients. Three single‐dose human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation tests of six adult patients showed normal responses. Three other patients who had elevated baseline levels responded with modest increases. Since liver disease is usually associated with decreased androgen levels, it is difficult to account for the elevated androgen levels. Both increased androgen levels and copper accumulation in the hypophysis could be responsible for the blunted GnRH response.
Relative Ratios of Lactoferrin, Albumin, and Acid Phosphatase Seminal Levels as Sperm Quality Markers in Fertile and Infertile Men
Authors: AUTIERO M. , SANSONE G. , ABRESCIA P.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Human seminal plasma proteins from fertile and infertile men were fractionated by electrophoresis. The amounts of three Coomassie‐stained protein bands were measured by densitometry. Their relative ratios were constant in normospermic men but varied in the infertile patients. Laboratory manipulation of the semen was shown not to affect the protein ratios as observed after liquefaction, incubation at various temperatures, and storage at −20°C. The three proteins were purified by chromatographic techniques and identified as lactoferrin, albumin, and acid phosphatase by electrophoresis, high‐pressure liquid chromatography, and enzyme assays. The use of these proteins to evaluate the contributions of different fluids to seminal plasma is discussed.
Appearance of α‐Smooth Muscle Actin in Peritubular Cells of Monkey Testes Is Induced by Androgens, Modulated by Follicle‐Stimulating Hormone, and Maintained after Hormonal Withdrawal
Authors: SCHLATT STEFAN , WEINBAUER GERHARD F. , ARSLAN MUHAMMAD , NIESCHLAG EBERHARD
Published: October 2023

This study analyzed the hormonal requirements necessary for the development of primate testicular peritubular cells. Alpha‐smooth muscle actin, as a specific differentiation marker for peritubular cells, was immunohistochemically detected in the testes of immature rhesus and adult rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys. Positive staining was localized in the wall of blood vessels and in peritubular myoid cells of adult animals. In the testis of vehicle‐treated immature monkeys no positive staining could be detected in peritubular cells. Following follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) or testosterone treatment, immunostaining for α‐smooth muscle actin appeared in peritubular cells of immature animals. In comparison to FSH, testosterone was more effective in inducing the differentiation of peritubular cells. The most intense label for α‐smooth muscle actin was, however, obtained after combined treatment with FSH and testosterone. A computer‐assisted image analysis system was used to evaluate semiquantitative data for the α‐smooth muscle actin positive area; this confirmed a significantly higher expression of α‐smooth muscle actin in peritubular cells of immature monkeys after treatment with testosterone plus FSH in comparison to controls. These data present evidence that the differentiation of primate peritubular cells during pubertal sexual development is a hormone‐dependent process, which may be predominantly regulated by androgens. FSH exerted additive effects on the androgen‐induced differentiation of peritubular cells, suggesting that paracrine communication between peritubular cells and Sertoli cells existed. Main‐tenance of peritubular cell differentiation after withdrawal of hormonal stimuli in adult monkeys may be a possible explanation for different hormonal requirements during reinitiation of spermatogenesis after testicular involution.
Effect of Cryoprotective Additives and Cryopreservation Protocol on Sperm Membrane Lipid Peroxidation and Recovery of Motile Human Sperm
Authors: BELL MICHELLE , WANG RUN , HELLSTROM WAYNE J. G. , SIKKA SURESH C.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT Sperm membrane damage during cryopreservation reduces the recovery of motile sperm. The present study investigates changes in sperm motility and membrane lipid peroxidation (LPO) in response to two changes in the standard sperm cryopreservation/thawing methodology: 1) the addition of platelet‐activating factor (PAF) and pentoxifylline (PTX) as cryoprotective additives, and 2) the alteration of sample thawing time. PAF (1 μM) and PTX (3 mM) were added to fresh sperm samples prior to cryopreservation. After 2 weeks the samples were thawed either quickly (5 minutes at 37°C) or slowly (30 minutes at 4°C) and evaluated for sperm motility and LPO. Thawing time influenced both post‐thaw motility and LPO. Samples thawed quickly exhibited a 31% increase in motility recovery (35.2 ± 4.3% in quick‐thaw samples; 24.3 ± 3.9% in slow‐thaw samples) and a 23% lower LPO level (23.3 ± 3.4% in quick‐thaw samples; 30.09 ± 4.4% in slow‐thaw samples) compared to samples thawed slowly. Results also demonstrated that PAF (49 ± 1.7%) or PTX (42.6 ± 1.5%) enhance post‐thaw motility in comparison to control (35.8 ± 1.2%), whereas neither PAF nor PTX affect post‐thaw LPO (19.1 ± 2.2% in controls; 20.2 ± 1.7% in PAF samples; 20.5 ± 1.4% in PTX samples). These results support observations that there is a negative correlation between sperm motility and LPO in cryopreserved samples. The results also discount the hypothesis that LPO protection is a result of the cryoprotective action of PAF or PTX.
Use of the Florida Sexual History Questionnaire to Differentiate Primary Organic from Primary Psychogenic Impotence
Authors: GEISSER MICHAEL E. , MURRAY FREDERICK T. , COHEN MARC S. , SHEA PATRICK J. , ADDEO RUSSELL R.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: A recent study demonstrated the Florida Sexual History Questionnaire (FSHQ) is reliable and valid when used to discriminate impotent from nonimpotent men. This study examined the ability of the FSHQ to discriminate between men with primary psychogenic and primary organic impotence in a sample of impotent diabetics and a larger group of impotent men. The hit rate in the diabetic sample was 81% using an eight‐item discriminant function, and 70% using the total score. Hit rates in the larger sample were significant but lower (73% and 66%). The results suggest that the FSHQ has concurrent validity in terms of discriminating primary organic from primary psychogenic impotence.
Antegrade Ejaculation Following Transurethral Laser Ablation of the Prostate
Authors: HASHMAT AIZID I. , HAKIM LAWRENCE S.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: A major drawback for many sexually active men who undergo a prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia, either via a transurethral resection or an open procedure, is the high incidence of retrograde ejaculation. Transurethral laser ablation of the prostate (TULAP) is a minimally invasive alternative to these procedures for prostatic outlet obstruction. We retrospectively reviewed 37 patients who underwent the TULAP procedure. Our data revealed that in addition to a significant improvement in voiding symptoms, 92% of sexually active patients retained both potency and antegrade ejaculation postoperatively. We conclude that this procedure is a viable alternative to transurethral prostatectomy, especially for the men who wish to remain sexually potent with antegrade ejaculation. A rationale for the mechanism of preservation of ejaculatory function is discussed.
Combined Intracavernous Injection of Papaverine and Stimulation (CIS) Test
Authors: KADIOGLU A. , ERDOGRU T. , TELLALOGLU S.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The inhibitory effect of the overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system that results from outpatient clinical conditions leads to poor erectile response to intracavernous injection of papaverine. The effects of self manual genital stimulation for improvement of erectile quality in insufficient papaverine response were investigated in 171 impotent men. Twenty‐nine (63.04%) of 46 patients who had a normal vascular system showed partial response to papaverine. Following self manual genital stimulation, full erection was achieved in all of them. Better erections were achieved in 28 of 42 patients with arterial disease. In patients subclassified as having slight, moderate, and severe arterial disease, improved erections were noted in 100%, 71.42%, and 64.28%, respectively. In the mixed vascular (arterial + venous) disease group (n = 46), the combined intracavernous injection of papaverine and stimulation (CIS) test led to a better erection in only 41.30%, whereas in the pure venogenic group (n = 37), this percentage was 66.66%. The inhibitory effect of the overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system is significantly reduced by the CIS test.
Vasography: Application of an Epidural Catheter
Authors: LOUGHLIN KEVIN R. , BAGLI DARIUS J. , HURLEY RONALD J.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Vasography is an accepted uroradiographic procedure primarily used in the evaluation of infertile men with azoospermia or severe oligospermia. We present a technique of utilizing an epidural catheter to facilitate vasography.

The role of vasography in the treatment of the male genitourinary system has evolved over the years. In the past, it has been used in the diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer (Beck et al, 1978), congenital disorders (Gibbons et al, 1978), and the treatment of genitourinary infections (Fourcade and Jardin, 1981). However, in the modern era, vasography has been used primarily in the treatment of infertile men with azoospermia or severe oligospermia.

Most urologists feel that vasography should be performed in men with azoospermia or severe oligospermia who have normal gonadotropins, palpable bilateral vas deferens, and a testicular biopsy documenting spermatogenesis.
Machine learning‐based antioxidant protein identification model: Progress and evaluation
Authors: Meng Chaolu , Pei Yue , Bu Yongbo , Zou Quan , Ju Ying
Published: October 2023

Efficient and accurate identification of antioxidant proteins is of great significance. In recent years, many models for identifying antioxidant proteins have been proposed, but the low sensitivity and high dimensionality of the models are common problems. The generalization ability of the model needs to be improved. Researchers have tried different feature extraction algorithms and feature selection algorithms to obtain the most effective feature combination and have chosen more appropriate classification algorithms and tools to improve model performance. In this article, we systematically reviewed the data set of the most frequently used antioxidant proteins and the method selection for each step of model establishment and discussed the characteristics of each method. We have conducted a detailed analysis of recent research and believe that the practical ability and efficiency of model application can be improved by reducing model dimensions. The key to improving the performance of antioxidant protein recognition models in the future may lie in feature selection, so this paper also focuses on the combination of feature extraction and selection steps in the analysis of the model building process.
Sonocatalytic degradation of nitrobenzene with metal oxide clay nanocomposites
Authors: Saini Pooja , Chakinala Nandana , Surolia Praveen K. , Chakinala Anand Gupta
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

The presence of a wide range of persistent toxic organic pollutants in industrial effluents poses a serious threat to human and environmental health, emphasising the necessity for developing cost‐effective methods for treating toxic effluents. This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization and evaluation of metal oxide [iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn)]‐doped clay composite for the sonocatalytic degradation of nitrobenzene (NB) in the presence of ultrasound.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Among the metal oxides studied, Cu and Fe oxide‐modified clay performed better in the degradation of NB (~99% in the presence of air) compared to a ZnO/clay composite. Process optimization studies were carried with CuO/clay composite at different pHs (2.5–11.5), feed concentrations (50–200 mg L−1) and catalyst loadings (0.25–1.0 g L−1). Neutral pH conditions and higher catalyst loadings of 1 g L−1 were found to be optimal for the efficient degradation of 50 ppm NB. Among the scavengers tested, ethylenediamine tetra acetic acid exhibited strong scavenging effects, resulting in reduced NB degradation compared to isopropyl alcohol and tin tetrachloride, regardless of the scavenger concentration (0.5 and 40 mmol L−1). The catalyst was found to be sufficiently stable for up to four cycles under identical conditions. Additionally, these materials were found to be effective in the degradation of other pollutants [Terephthalic acid, Rhodamine‐B, Ciprofloxacin]. These findings contribute to the development of cost‐effective strategies for the treatment of industrial effluents, reducing the risks posed to both the environment and human health. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Microlearning: Evidence‐based education that is effective for busy professionals and short attention spans
Authors: Ingram Nissen Therese , Edelman Emily A. , Steinmark Linda , Logan Kalisi , Reed E. Kate
Published: October 2023

Microlearning uses short educational interventions to provide learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform specific tasks or solve immediate problems. This approach is increasingly used across digital platforms to engage learners and foster quick comprehension. Microlearning can be used in clinical genetics education to deliver a comprehensive educational intervention that is segmented into smaller discrete but complimentary components. This report discusses one group's approach to using microlearning in clinician education and provides tips that can be applied to other educational efforts. High‐quality genetics education has the potential to be disseminated across multiple delivery methods and to multiple audiences, thereby increasing its impact and reach.
Characterizing the research mentorship experience of genetic counseling students
Authors: Steber Hannah S. , Fishler Kristen P. , McBrien Sarah B.
Published: October 2023

The Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling's Practice‐Based Competencies include research‐related skills, which are taught in master's level genetic counseling programs through didactic coursework and completion of mentored research experiences. It is known that research mentors can impact student work environments, create positive perceptions of the research process, and increase students' likelihood of future involvement in research. However, few studies have characterized the experiences of GC students in receiving research mentorship. It is crucial to understand these experiences from student perspectives to better inform stakeholders about factors that impact mentorship. Using a mixed‐methods approach, this study explored GC students' experiences receiving research mentorship and their thoughts regarding the successful qualities of research mentors. GC students (N = 165) who graduated between 2019 and 2022 responded to an online survey measuring the mentorship relationship, defined by the Advisory Working Alliance Inventory (AWAI). On average, participants scored 3.96/5 on the AWAI, where higher scores indicate stronger working alliances. When asked to describe their overall research experience in three words, 75.7% of participants used at least one negatively connotated descriptor. Thematic analysis of semi‐structured interviews obtained via purposive sampling of highest and lowest scoring participants on the AWAI (N = 14) revealed the following five themes related to successful qualities of a research mentor: (1) communication; (2) rapport building and relationship; (3) engagement and guidance; (4) expertise and connections; and (5) mentors with different roles. Of note, many of these qualities are foundational skills in genetic counseling. Thus, genetic counselors who may be strong in these areas who do not identify as “researchers” ought to consider becoming a research committee member. Additionally, education programs could consider implementing research committee member evaluations and/or student research self‐efficacy surveys to evaluate how these relationships may be shaping research experiences for students within their program.
Synthesis of new 2‐pyridinone and thiazole derivatives containing coumarin moiety
Authors: Al‐Harbi Reem A. K. , Emam Heba A. , Abbas Samir Y.
Published: October 2023

Coumarin has shown considerable therapeutic potency because of its versatile biological prosperities. Also, pyridines have been adopted in medicinal chemistry as potent ring. Moreover, several investigations reported the potency of thiazole‐containing compounds. So, during this research, new functionalized 2‐pyridinone and thiazole derivatives bearing coumarin moiety were aimed to synthesize. Many trials to obtain the 6‐amino‐2‐oxo‐pyridine‐3,5‐dicarbonitriles through the condensation of cyanoacetohydrazone of 3‐acetyl coumarin with 2‐(arylidene)malononitriles were carried out using different reaction conditions. In all cases, the reaction gave none of the corresponding 2‐pyridinone derivatives except the reaction with 2‐(benzylidene)‐malononitrile afforded product in few yield. Moreover, the reaction of another cyanoacetanilide with the 2‐(arylidene)‐malononitrile afforded the unexpected arylidene derivatives rather than the expected pyridin‐2‐one derivatives. Finally, new thiazoles bearing coumarin moiety were synthesized using 3‐acetylcoumarin N‐(2,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐thiosemicarbazone. Cyclization of thiosemicarbazone derivative with ethyl 2‐chloroacetate, chloroacetone or phenacyl bromide afforded in high yields the corresponding derivatives of thiazolidin‐4‐one, 4‐methylthiazole or 4‐phenylthiazole, respectively.
How efficient are metal‐polymer and dual‐metals‐polymer non‐lead radiation shields?
Authors: Salehi Zaker , Tayebi Khorami Mansour
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Lead shields are often used to attenuate ionising radiations. However, to make lighter, recyclable and more efficient shields compared to lead, combinations of new metallic compounds together with polymer, for example, flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) have been developed recently. In this study, the capabilities of non‐lead radiation shields made of one or two metallic compounds and polymer were evaluated.

Methods

Monte Carlo (MC)‐based BEAMnrc code was used to build a functional model based on a Philips X‐ray machine in the range of radiographic energies. The MC model was then verified by IPEM Report 78 as a standardised global reference. The MC model was then used to evaluate the efficiency of non‐lead‐based garments made of metallic compound and polymer (MCP) including BaSO4‐PVC, Bi2O3‐PVC, Sn‐PVC and W‐PVC, as well as dual‐metallic compounds and polymer (DMCP) including Bi2O3‐BaSO4‐PVC, Bi2O3‐Sn‐PVC, W‐Sn‐PVC and W‐BaSO4‐PVC. The absorbed doses were determined at the surface of a water phantom and compared directly with the doses obtained for 0.5 mm pure lead (Pb).

Results

Bi2O3‐BaSO4‐PVC and W‐BaSO4‐PVC were found to be efficient shields for most of the energies. In addition to the above radiation shields, Bi2O3‐Sn‐PVC was also found to be effective for the spectrum of 60 keV. Bi2O3‐BaSO4‐PVC as a non‐lead dual metals‐PVC shield was shown to be more efficient than pure lead in diagnostic X‐ray range.

Conclusion

Combination of two metals‐PVC, a low atomic number (Z) metal together with a high atomic number metal, and also single‐metal‐PVC shields were shown to be efficient enough to apply as radiation protection shields instead of lead‐based garments.
Cryotherapy versus topical nitric‐zinc complex solution for the treatment of plantar warts: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: García‐Oreja Sara , Álvaro‐Afonso Francisco Javier , García‐Madrid Marta , López‐Moral Mateo , García‐Álvarez Yolanda , Lázaro‐Martínez José Luís
Published: October 2023

Cryotherapy is commonly regarded as the primary treatment method for plantar warts. A new medical device called nitric–zinc complex solution (NZCS) has also emerged as a potential alternative for wart treatment. The main aim of this study was to analyze and compare the effectiveness of cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen and NZCS in treating plantar warts. We conducted a randomized and controlled clinical trial involving patients with plantar warts. A total of 62 patients were enrolled in the study and monitored for 12 weeks or until their warts were completely resolved. The patients received either cryotherapy or NZCS, with a maximum of six treatment applications. The cure rate was 65.5% in the group treated with cryotherapy and 56.6% in the group treated with NZCS. The average number of treatment applications required for curing warts was significantly lower in the cured group (3.28 ± 1.63) than in the group with unresolved warts (5.5 ± 1.27) (p < 0.01). Moreover, the average number of applications was lower in the cryotherapy group (3.6 ± 1.8) than in the NZCS group (4.8 ± 1.8) (p < 0.01). Based on the findings, NZCS could be considered a favorable first‐line treatment option for plantar warts.
Conversational skills at work: Teaching small talk via telehealth to individuals with disabilities
Authors: Lu Weili , Oursler Janice , Herrick Samantha J. , Gao Ni , Beninato John , Minor Tameika , Eissenstat Sunhee , Harosh Ariella Silberman , Wang Ke , Diviney Jason , Schultz Emily , Silva Janaina , Lee Dawoon
Published: October 2023

Employment can provide numerous benefits to quality of life, mental health, and social inclusion, which can be particularly important for people with disabilities. In a pilot study, the feasibility of Conversing with Others, a direct skills teaching (DST) group intervention to teach individuals with disabilities a work‐related soft skill focused on conversational skills, was assessed. This mixed methods study delivered the Conversing with Others curriculum in‐person or via telehealth to 119 participants. The intervention was based on the DST method of teaching skills through smaller, digestible, structured lessons. Both modalities showed improvement in participants’ perceptions of their conversational skills. A non‐inferiority test indicated that the telehealth and in‐person group interventions were comparable. Overall, the study supported the feasibility of in‐person and telehealth interventions for teaching workplace conversational skills.
The expansive executive: Understanding the good and bad of managerial performance
Authors: Kaplan Robert E.
Published: October 2023

A series of in‐depth studies has revealed that a character type found in many executives can be the source both of great strengths and crippling weaknesses.
Synthetic Evolution of a Supramolecular Harpooning Mechanism to Immobilize Vesicles at Antifouling Interfaces
Authors: Englert Jenny , Witzdam Lena , Söder Dominik , Garay‐Sarmiento Manuela , Joseph Anton , Wagner Anna M. , Rodriguez‐Emmenegger Cesar
Published: October 2023

The immobilization of vesicles has been conceptualized as a method to functionalize biointerfaces. However, the preservation of their integrity post immobilization remains a considerable challenge. Interfacial interactions can cause vesicle rupture upon close surface contact and non‐specific protein adsorption impairing surface functions. To date, immobilization of vesicles has relied solely on either entrapment or prior modification of vesicles, both of which require laborious preparation and limit their applications. This work develops a bioinspired strategy to pin vesicles without prior modification while preserving their intact shape. This work introduces antifouling diblock copolymers and ultrathin surface‐attached hydrogels containing a brush‐like interface consisting of a bottle brush copolymer of N‐(2‐hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide (HPMA) and N‐(3‐methacrylamidopropyl)‐N,N‐dimethyldodecan‐1‐aminiumiodide (C12+). The presence of positive charges generates an attractive force that pulls vesicles toward the surface. At the surface, the amphiphilic properties of the combs facilitate their insertion into the membrane, mimicking the harpooning mechanism observed in antimicrobial peptides. Importantly, the antifouling poly(HPMA) backdrop serves to safeguard the vesicles by preventing deformation and breakage. Using a combination of thermodynamic analysis, surface plasmon resonance, and confocal laser scanning microscopy, this work demonstrates the efficiency of this biomimetic system to capture vesicles while maintaining an antifouling interface necessary for bioapplications.
A note on the n$n$‐point boundary rigidity
Authors: Rong Feng
Published: October 2023

In this note, we prove some general ‐point boundary rigidity theorems which can be applied to various classes of bounded taut domains.
Cost‐Effectiveness of Carbidopa‐Levodopa Enteral Suspension for Advanced Parkinson's Disease in the United States
Authors: Pahwa Rajesh , Merola Aristide , Soileau Michael , Alobaidi Ali , Pickard A. Simon , Kandukuri Prasanna L. , Bao Yanjun , Strezewski John , Oddsdottir Julia , Xu Weiwei , Standaert David
Published: October 2023

Background

Carbidopa/levodopa enteral suspension (CLES) is indicated for the treatment of advanced Parkinson's disease (aPD) with severe motor fluctuations.

Objective

To determine the cost, quality‐adjusted life years (QALY), and cost‐effectiveness of CLES compared to the standard‐of‐care (SoC) for aPD patients in the United States (US), using real‐world data.

Methods

A published Markov model, comprising of 25 health states and a death state, (defined by a combination of the Hoehn and Yahr scale and waking time spent in OFF‐time) was adapted to estimate the benefits for CLES versus oral SoC over a patient's lifetime in the US healthcare setting. Clinical inputs were based on a clinical trial and a registry study; utility inputs were sourced from the Adelphi‐Disease Specific Programmes.

Results

CLES compared to SoC was associated with incremental costs ($1,031,791 vs. $1,025,180) and QALY gain (4.61 vs. 3.76), resulting in an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of $7711/QALY.

Conclusion

CLES is a cost‐effective treatment for aPD patients with medication resistant motor fluctuations. © 2023 AbbVie, Inc and The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Data‐driven benchmarks can improve patient MH outcomes
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2023

Observing that the mental health care industry has traditionally lacked technology solutions to track data to measure and improve the effectiveness of treatment over time, a technology platform has generated a data‐driven “blueprint” for clinicians to help inform treatment decisions at the point of care.
The Work Experience Survey – Rheumatic conditions (United Kingdom): Psychometric properties and identifying the workplace barriers of employed people with inflammatory arthritis receiving vocational rehabilitation
Authors: Hammond Alison , O’Brien Rachel , Woodbridge Sarah , Parker Jennifer , Ching Angela
Published: October 2023

Objective

The aims were to: revise the Work Experience Survey‐Rheumatic Conditions (WES‐RC‐ UK), a work assessment listing 142 workplace barriers; investigate content validity, reliability, and concurrent validity; update the accompanying WES‐RC and WORKWELL Solutions Manuals; and investigate workplace barriers of people with inflammatory arthritis.

Methods

Rheumatology therapists, following vocational rehabilitation (VR) training, assessed participants in the WORKWELL VR trial using the WES‐RC. Data were extracted from the WES‐RC to identify the frequency of workplace barriers, and from trial baseline questionnaires (e.g., Work Limitations Questionnaire‐25 (WLQ‐25). Barriers reported by ≤5 participants were considered for removal. WES‐RC content validity was assessed by linking to the International Classification of Functioning, Health, and Disability Core Set for VR (ICF‐VR). Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's α and concurrent validity by correlating the total number of workplace barriers reported with WLQ‐25 scores.

Results

WES‐RCs were completed with 116 employed participants: 79% women, age 48.72 (SD 9.49) years, and 57% working full‐time. The WES‐RC was reduced to 121 barriers. Content validity was good, with 73/90 ICF‐VR items linked. Cronbach's α = 0.92, that is, suitable for individual use. Concurrent validity was moderate: WLQ‐25 (rs = 0.40). The three most common barriers were Physical Job Demands (100%: e.g., mobility 99%; hand use 74%), Mental, Time, Energy, Emotional Job Demands (91%, e.g., concentration 47%, remembering 41%); Getting Ready for and Travel to Work (87%, e.g., driving 60%).

Conclusion

The WES‐RC (UK) has good content validity, reliability, and concurrent validity. The wide range of barriers emphasises the need for biopsychosocial work rehabilitation.
A phase‐field formulation based on an extended F‐criterion for rock fracture
Authors: Sun Pan , Lu Zhitang , Wang Zhiliang , Wu Jie
Published: October 2023

In this paper a phase‐field formulation based on an extended F‐criterion (the normalized strain energy release rate criterion) is proposed to simulate tensile‐compressive‐shear rock fractures. By applying the F‐criterion, the phase‐field crack‐driving energy decomposition is determined by a direction search which maximizes the local fracture dissipation. In compressive‐shear states, the computation is supplemented by an explicitly expressed confinement‐dependent mode‐II fracture energy release rate, and the cracking angle is determined by both the fracture energy and strain states. The hybrid formulation and alternate minimization algorithm are adopted for the numerical examples in this paper. Fractures for rock and rock‐like specimens subjected to compression demonstrate the ability of the present model in capturing tensile‐compressive‐shear rock fracture behaviors.
Translation and validation into Brazilian Portuguese of the English version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire for Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ‐MLUTS)
Authors: Ferreira Rúiter S. , D'Ancona Carlos Arturo Levi , Nunes Ricardo Luís Vita , Tamanini José Tadeu N. , Faisano Lucas Viana , Silva Cleide Aparecida Moreira , Yadoya Rafael , Ehrenfreund Rafael , Botelho Matheus
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To translate and cross‐culturally adapt the English version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire for Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ‐MLUTS) into Brazilian Portuguese and evaluate its psychometric properties.

Introduction

Male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are frequent and commonly assessed with questionnaires. The ICIQ‐MLUTS is a robust instrument that investigates the main aspects of LUTS in men and their impact on quality of life. Although highly recommended, Grade A is not as popular as the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and remained untranslated and unvalidated for Brazilian Portuguese.

Methods

After authorization by the Advisory Board of the International Consultation on Incontinence (ICIQ) the translation process was conducted according to the standard guidelines and the ICIQ validation protocol. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's ⍺ coefficient and values > 0.7 were considered satisfactory. To assess test–retest reliability and reproducibility, Spearman's correlation coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient were used. For group data, a Spearman correlation coefficient or an intraclass correlation coefficient of at least 0.70 demonstrates good test–retest reliability. A p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

One hundred and eighty‐six, aged 61.41 ± 11.01 years, suffering from LUTS participated in the study between January 2021 and October 2022. Cronbach's ⍺, 0.875, demonstrated the internal consistency of the Portuguese version of ICIQ‐MLUTS. The intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.912 (0.882; 0.935 – 95% CI) for the test–retest evidenced the stability and validity of the instrument. Likewise, Spearman's correlation coefficient highlighted the agreement between IPSS and ICIQ‐MLUTS, 0.906, <0.001.

Discussion

The Portuguese version of the ICIQ‐MLUTS demonstrated internal consistency, stability, and validity, in addition to agreement with the IPSS. Conclusion: The ICIQ‐MLUTS, translated and validated into Brazilian Portuguese, is a robust and reliable instrument to assess LUTS in Brazilian men and can be used in the evaluation of treatment and research.
What's next? Education leaders ponder the fallout from the Supreme Court affirmative action decision
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: October 2023

When the Supreme Court outlawed affirmative action for college admissions in its late June decision, that specific result had been expected for months. While there has been plenty of parsing of what the decision means, and what it doesn’t, the bigger question for college officials is what's next?
Polymer composites–Special issue review for additive manufacturing of composites
Authors: Osswald Tim A. , Jack David A. , Thompson Matthew S.
Published: October 2023

This special issue of Polymer Composites on “Additive Manufacturing of Composites” seeks to provide insight into recent advances in the field of additive manufacturing (AM), often termed 3D printing, using composite materials. We hope this issue provides help to the practicing engineer, material suppliers, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Tier‐1 suppliers, academics and scientists, and others with an interest in using or applying AM to their products and systems. This issue presents new materials, new material systems, enhancements of the final part performance, novel manufacturing methods, and applications, and improvements of existing manufacturing methods for AM. Solutions are presented by the research community to solve specific scientific and engineering challenges within the field in this issue. This issue is highlighted by several review articles on recent advances within the field of polymer composite additive manufacturing.
Preparation and mechanical properties of fluoropolymer composite containing polyrotaxane and nanocellulose as organic fillers
Authors: Chu Pinjung , Harada Ko , Xu Kai , Fujimori Atsuhiro
Published: October 2023

Polymer‐based composites containing functional organic fillers with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a matrix were prepared using a simple and short melt‐compounding method, and their mechanical properties were evaluated. Polyrotaxane and nanocellulose were used as functional organic fillers. A PVDF/organic filler composite with improved mechanical hardness was prepared, even when using a fluoropolymer that tends to separate phases from other components. The optimum conditions for improving in Young's modulus were estimated from the composites prepared by varying the organic filler content. As a result, the Young's modulus increased to 1548 MPa, maximum stress approached 50 MPa, and strain elongation was 20% at contents of polyrotaxane:nanocellulose = 0.6 wt%:0.3 wt%. Furthermore, the miscibility of both components was evaluated based on the change in the crystallization temperature of the composite, the PVDF matrix, and each organic filler. The partial miscibility and dispersion of the organic fillers in the fluoropolymer matrix are suggested to be responsible for improving the mechanical properties.

Highlights

Unique composites containing nanocellulose and polyrotaxane were prepared.

Organic fillers were introduced into a phase‐separable fluoropolymer matrix.

Mechanical properties were improved by introduction of organic fillers.

Nanocellulose seems to adsorb to the polymer chain ends of fluoropolymer.

Polyrotaxane showed partial miscibility with fluoropolymer matrix.
Optimizing the PROTREC network‐based missing protein prediction algorithm
Authors: Wu Wenshan , Huang Zelu , Kong Weijia , Peng Hui , Goh Wilson Wen Bin
Published: October 2023

This article summarizes the PROTREC method and investigates the impact that the different hyper‐parameters have on the task of missing protein prediction using PROTREC. We evaluate missing protein recovery rates using different PROTREC score selection approaches (MAX, MIN, MEDIAN, and MEAN), different PROTREC score thresholds, as well as different complex size thresholds. In addition, we included two additional cancer datasets in our analysis and introduced a new validation method to check both the robustness of the PROTREC method as well as the correctness of our analysis. Our analysis showed that the missing protein recovery rate can be improved by adopting PROTREC score selection operations of MIN, MEDIAN, and MEAN instead of the default MAX. However, this may come at a cost of reduced numbers of proteins predicted and validated. The users should therefore choose their hyper‐parameters carefully to find a balance in the accuracy‐quantity trade‐off. We also explored the possibility of combining PROTREC with a p‐value‐based method (FCS) and demonstrated that PROTREC is able to perform well independently without any help from a p‐value‐based method. Furthermore, we conducted a downstream enrichment analysis to understand the biological pathways and protein networks within the cancerous tissues using the recovered proteins.

Missing protein recovery rate using PROTREC can be improved by selecting a different PROTREC score selection method.

Different PROTREC score selection methods and other hyper‐parameters such as PROTREC score threshold and complex size threshold introduce accuracy‐quantity trade‐off.

PROTREC is able to perform well independently of any filtering using a p‐value‐based method.

Verification of the PROTREC method on additional cancer datasets.

Downstream Enrichment Analysis to understand the biological pathways and protein networks in cancerous tissues.
Towards Equitable Healthcare: A Cross Dataset Analysis of Healthcare and Telehealth Access
Authors: Al Haque Ebtesam , Smith Angela D. R. , Johnson Brittany
Published: October 2023

History has repeatedly shown that when it comes to healthcare, there exist significant disparities across different sub‐populations. Part of this problem is challenges with access to healthcare services and providers. In recent years, we have seen solutions emerge that attempt to address this issue, namely telehealth. But little to no work has been done to glean insights into factors contributing to lower access and whether telehealth adequately supports populations that struggle with physical access issues. In this paper, we present findings from an exploratory, cross‐dataset analysis of healthcare access in Virginia, USA. We conducted quantitative and qualitative analyses lyses to determine correlations between socioeconomic factors and physical access. We found that population density significantly impacts physical access to healthcare. We also found that lower income communities in rural areas appear to be less satisfied with the quality of care and less likely to have adequate access to alternative options such as telehealth services. Our work has implications for research aimed at understanding healthcare access and practice that aims to derive solutions to close the healthcare access gap.
The Hipátia Model: Paths toward the Brazilian Archival Digital Preservation Era
Authors: Braga Tiago , Alves Larissa
Published: October 2023

This paper presents how Brazilian judiciary organizations are advancing towards a preserved digital environment, and how this process is improving the country's legal system. First, it analyzed the legal norms published by some of the most relevant Brazilian institutions and how these norms fostered the major courts to immediately start projects related to digital preservation. Second, the major challenges faced by these organizations while fulfilling the legal requirements were listed, and a general strategy to attend to them was defined. Subsequently, a model was established to fulfill these requirements. The model was structured to consider the possibilities of future expansion. As the main result of this research, a model capable of setting archival digital preservation projects was designed for the first time, enabling their consequent application by judiciary institutions in Brazil.