bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unraveling the link between Type II supernova luminosity and host galaxy velocity dispersion
Authors: Hernández Flores A. , Olivares E. F. , Morelli L. , Wiseman P. , Gutierrez C. P.
Published: June 2024

Type II supernovae (SNe II) have emerged as valuable cosmological probes, serving as alternative and independent tools to Type Ia supernova (SN Ia) cosmology. However, the Hubble diagram dispersion for SNe II is significantly larger than for SNe Ia. In this study, we investigate the SN II luminosity and the host galaxy velocity dispersion with the purpose of improving the scatter in the SN II Hubble diagram. We selected a sample of SNe II discovered by the Dark Energy Survey (DES), and we measured the spectra of their host galaxies using the VLT/FORS2 and Magellan‐Baade/MagE spectrographs. From those galaxy spectra, we calculated the stellar velocity dispersion in the central region. Using the effective Sérsic radius from the DES imaging, we standardized the velocity dispersion values to a common aperture. From their i‐band light curves, we determined a characteristic plateau brightness for our SNe. For this purpose, we developed an algorithm designed to parameterize the plateau phase. After computing the SN absolute magnitudes using the standard cosmology, we found a modest correlation with the host galaxy velocity dispersion (). These findings could significantly contribute to SN II cosmology, paving the way for SNe II as more robust cosmological probes.
Microelectrode investigation of iron and copper surfaces aged in presence of monochloramine
Authors: Gonzalez Beatriz C. , Liggett Jennifer E. , Lytle Darren A. , Lee Woo Hyoung , Harmon Stephen M. , Pressman Jonathan G. , Wahman David G.
Published: June 2024

Ductile iron and copper coupons were aged 137–189 days and 2 days, respectively, with 2 mg Cl2 L−1 monochloramine under four water chemistries (pH 7 or 9 and 0 or 3 mg L−1 orthophosphate). Subsequently, microelectrode profiles of monochloramine concentration, oxygen concentration, and pH were measured from the bulk water to near the coupon reactive surface, allowing estimation of flux and apparent surface reaction rate constants for monochloramine and oxygen. Both metals showed similar trends with orthophosphate where orthophosphate decreased metal reactivity with monochloramine (pH 9) and oxygen (pH 7). Comparing iron and copper coupons, apparent surface reaction rate constants for monochloramine and oxygen were one and two orders of magnitude greater, respectively, for iron coupons under all conditions. Overall, this research provides the first insights into monochloramine concentration, oxygen concentration, and pH by direct measurement near ductile iron and copper reactive surfaces aged in the presence of monochloramine.
The exploitation of girls in care: An ongoing struggle for recognition
Authors: Shaw Julie , Staines Jo , Fitzpatrick Claire , Hunter Katie
Published: June 2024

Drawing upon original research data, the core task of this article is to explore some of the difficulties experienced by girls in care in England in having their exploitation recognised, along with the challenges faced by professionals from social care and criminal justice agencies in meeting their safeguarding needs. The article provides a unique insight into the ways in which the perceptions and experiences of the two groups compare with the other, as both attempts to negotiate their own set of challenges within the confines of an inadequate and under‐resourced system. It considers the sense of disconnect between the needs, expectations and perceptions of care‐experienced girls and the care they ultimately receive, emphasising how experiences of stigma intersect with gendered and racialised judgements, creating a situation where they are viewed as less than ‘ideal’ victims.
Effects of online customer reviews on sustainable clothing purchase intentions: The mediating role of perceived diagnosticity
Authors: Huang Chaohua , Chen Changhua , Wang Haijun
Published: June 2024

Online customer reviews play a vital role in evaluating product or service performance and serve as an important reference for other customers' purchase decisions. This study explores the influence of online customer reviews on sustainable clothing purchase intention through text mining and survey‐based methodologies. The results showed that online customer reviews focused on four dimensions: material ecology, clothing fashion, clothing functionality, and price reasonableness. Online customer reviews have a positive impact on consumers' sustainable purchase intentions, and perceived diagnosticity mediates the relationship between online customer reviews and purchase intentions. In addition, customers' prior sustainability knowledge moderates the relationship between material ecology, price reasonableness, and perceived diagnosticity. This study further enriches theoretical research on sustainable consumption within the context of online apparel retailing and helps sustainable apparel brands more accurately grasp the influencing variables of customers' sustainable consumption behaviours and formulate precise electronic word‐of‐mouth marketing strategies.
PLEK2 activates the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to drive lung adenocarcinoma progression by upregulating SPC25
Authors: Zhang Wenqian , Yu Lei , Xu Cong , Tang Tian , Cao Jianguang , Chen Lei , Pang Xinya , Ren Weihao
Published: June 2024

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common subtype of NSCLC, characterized by poor prognosis and frequently diagnosed at advanced. While previous studies have demonstrated pleckstrin‐2 (PLEK2) as aberrantly expressed and implicated in tumorigenesis across various tumor types, including LUAD, the molecular mechanisms underlying PLEK2‐mediated LUAD progression remain incompletely understood. In this study, we obtained data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to assess PLEK2 expression in LUAD, a finding further confirmed through analysis of human tissue specimens. PLEK2‐silenced LUAD cellular models were subsequently constructed to examine the functional role of PLEK2 both in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed elevated PLEK2 expression in LUAD, correlating with poor patients' prognosis. PLEK2 knockdown led to a significant suppression of LUAD cell proliferation and migration, accompanied by enhanced apoptosis. Moreover, tumor growth in mice injected with PLEK2‐silencing LUAD cells was impaired. Gene expression profiling and Co‐IP assays suggested direct interaction between PLEK2 and SPC25, with downregulation of SPC25 similarly impairing cell proliferation and migration. Additionally, we revealed phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling activation as requisite for PLEK2‐induced malignant phenotypes in LUAD. Collectively, our findings underscore PLEK2's oncogenic potential in LUAD, suggesting its utility as a prognostic indicator and therapeutic target for LUAD management.
Comparative characterisation of an ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase (CD73) in non‐tumoral MCF10‐A breast cells and triple‐negative MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells
Authors: Rocha‐Vieira Thais Cristino , Lacerda‐Abreu Marco Antonio , Carvalho‐Kelly Luiz Fernando , Santos‐Araújo Samara , Gondim Katia C. , Meyer‐Fernandes José Roberto
Published: June 2024

Ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase (CD73) hydrolyses 5′AMP to adenosine and inorganic phosphate. Breast cancer cells (MDA‐MB‐231) express high CD73 levels, and this enzyme has been found to play a tumour‐promoting role in breast cancer. However, no studies have sought to investigate whether CD73 has differential affinity or substrate preferences between noncancerous and cancerous breast cells. In the present study, we aimed to biochemically characterise ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase in breast cancer cell lines and assess whether its catalytic function and tumour progression are correlated in breast cancer cells. The results showed that compared to nontumoral breast MCF‐10A cells, triple‐negative breast cancer MDA‐MB‐231 cells had a higher ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase expression level and enzymatic activity. Although ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase activity in the MDA‐MB‐231 cell line showed no selectivity among monophosphorylated substrates, 5′AMP was preferred by the MCF‐10A cell line. Compared to the MCF‐10A cell line, the MDA‐MB‐231 cell line has better hydrolytic ability, lower substrate affinity, and high inhibitory potential after treatment with a specific CD73 inhibitor α,β‑methylene ADP (APCP). Therefore, we demonstrated that a specific inhibitor of the ecto‐5‐nucleotidase significantly reduced the migratory and invasive capacity of MDA‐MB‐231 cells, suggesting that ecto‐5‐nucleotidase activity might play an important role in metastatic progression.
Multicomponent Synthesis of 3(2H)‐Furanones Initiated by Copper(II)‐Catalyzed Alkyne‐Carbonyl Cross Metathesis
Authors: Su Zhenjie , Wang Shaozhong
Published: June 2024

The cooperative Lewis and Brønsted acid catalysis makes convergent synthesis of 3(2H)‐furanones through a three‐component coupling of 1,3‐diynes, alkyl glyoxylates and water. Control experiments support that Lewis acid‐catalyzed highly chemo‐, regio‐ and stereoselective alkyne‐carbonyl metathesis of 1,3‐diynes and alkyl glyoxylates might be the initial step of this multicomponent annulation. Further chemo‐ and regioselective hydration of the alkyne‐carbonyl metathesis product and subsequent oxa‐Michael addition promoted by Brønsted acid results in the formation of two C−O bonds of the five‐membered oxygen heterocycle.
Glyco‐DNA: Enzymatic Synthesis of Base‐Modified and Hypermodified DNA Displaying up to Four Different Monosaccharide Units in the Major Groove
Authors: Krömer Matouš , Poštová Slavětínská Lenka , Hocek Michal
Published: June 2024

A portfolio of six modified 2′‐deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate (dNTP) derivatives derived from 5‐substituted pyrimidine or 7‐substituted 7‐deazapurine bearing different carbohydrate units (d‐glucose, d‐galactose, d‐mannose, l‐fucose, sialic acid and N−Ac‐d‐galactosamine) tethered through propargyl‐glycoside linker was designed and synthesized via the Sonogashira reactions of halogenated dNTPs with the corresponding propargyl‐glycosides. The nucleotides were found to be good substrates for DNA polymerases in enzymatic primer extension and PCR synthesis of modified and hypermodified DNA displaying up to four different sugars. Proof of concept binding study of sugar‐modified oligonucleotides with concanavalin A showed positive effect of avidity and sugar units count.
Role of manufacturers' market‐related capabilities in developing market‐oriented codevelopment and competitive advantages in an emerging market
Authors: Liu Feng‐Hsu , Tsou Hung‐Tai
Published: June 2024

This study investigates how a manufacturing supplier's market‐related capabilities (marketing and market‐linking capabilities) affect market‐oriented codevelopment (buyer oriented and competitor oriented) and, in turn, its competitive advantage. A manufacturing supplier with high levels of marketing and market‐linking capabilities has positive effects on buyer‐oriented codevelopment; however, only high levels of marketing capabilities lead to competitor‐oriented codevelopment with local partners. In addition, both types of market‐oriented codevelopment have positive effects on manufacturing suppliers' competitive advantage, namely, innovation, location and internalization. The central theme of this paper is that applied knowledge and collaboration in local markets based on market‐related capabilities are key characteristics that enable manufacturing suppliers to compete both locally and globally.
Gnireteet
Authors: Bruce David R.
Published: June 2024

Before 2005, the term ‘teetering’ was relegated to the annuls of history as the term ‘fluidization’ was commonly utilized to describe gas–solids contacting processes. In his epochal article “Teetering”, examination of liquid‐fluidizing beds used for classification of minerals by size (sizing) or density (sorting), Norman Epstein described in detail the current understanding of particle segregation and mixing in liquid‐fluidized beds. Looking back in time, Dr. Epstein described the state‐of‐the‐art of modern uses of a traditional engineering technology and connected a historical framework to new opportunities for advancement. In the spirit of this re‐examination, an investigation of alternative ways of understanding this phenomenon are presented as inspired by the presentation of the contents of his ‘Teetering’ article at his 60th anniversary lecture to the Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering at the University of British Columbia. This article focuses on alternative concepts of construction for examination of teetering principles and further suggestions for avenues of research in this field and beyond.
Engineering the Active Sites of MOF‐derived Catalysts: From Oxygen Activation to Activate Metal‐Air Batteries†
Authors: Chen Fanjiao , Mu Xueqin , Zhou Jialing , Wang Shengchen , Liu Zhengyang , Zhou Dingyang , Liu Suli , Wang Dingsheng , Dai Zhihui
Published: June 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The electrochemical processes of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) play a crucial role in various energy storage and conversion systems. However, the inherently slow kinetics of reversible oxygen reactions present an urgent demand for the development of efficient oxygen electrocatalysts. Recently, metal‐organic framework (MOF) derivatives have attracted extensive attention in electrocatalysis research due to their unique porous structure, abundant active sites, and tunable structural properties. Especially, the optimization of the electronic structure of active sites in MOF derivatives has been proven as an effective strategy to enhance the catalytic activity. In this review, we provide an overview of the electronic structure optimization strategies for active sites in MOF derivatives as advanced catalysts in various O—O bond activation reactions, including the construction of synergistic effects between multiple sites, the development of heterogeneous interfaces, the utilization of metal support interactions, and the precise modulation of organic ligands surrounding catalytic active sites at the atomic level. Furthermore, this review offers theoretical insights into the oxygen activation and catalytic mechanisms of MOF derivatives, as well as the identification of active sites. Finally, the potential challenges and prospects of MOF derivatives in electrocatalysis are discussed. This review contributes to the understanding and advancement of efficient oxygen electrocatalysis in energy systems.

Key Scientists
Probe Beam Deflection Study of Au Nanoparticles Supported Into TiO2 Mesoporous Films
Authors: Coneo Rodríguez Rusbel , Angelomé Paula C. , Planes Gabriel Angel , Barbero Cesar Alfredo , Bruno Mariano
Published: June 2024

Mesoporous thin films modified with nanoparticles of metal (Au) have been used for the fabrication of an ultra‐microelectrode array (UMEA). For the first time, UMEAs were studied using probe beam deflection (PBD) and cyclic voltammetry. The study was carried out using the [Fe(CN)6]3−/[Fe(CN)6]4− couple as a redox probe. The electrochemical response is that of an array of nanoelectrodes. The effects of scan rate on the current and PBD signal profiles are discussed in the context of mass transport within the pores and at the solution‐electrode interface. The study suggests that the combination of PBD and CV allows a better understanding of the mass transport phenomena in this type of UMEAs of complex architecture.
Identification of potential suitable areas and conservation priority areas for representative wild animals in the Greater and Lesser Khingan Mountains
Authors: Zhang Chao , Lu Zhongwei , Zhuang Hongfei , Zhou Jiajie , Zhang Yuan , Lv Xinyu , Chen Minhao , Krzton Ali , Xia Wancai
Published: June 2024

Species geographic distribution and conservation priority areas are important bases for in situ biodiversity conservation and conservation decision‐making. In view of the urgency of endangered species protection, eight representative endangered species in the typical forest ecosystem of the Greater and Lesser Khingan Mountains were studied. Based on 1127 occurrence points and environmental data collected from 2016 to 2021, used BIOMOD2 and Zonation to reconstruct the potential distribution area and identify conservation priority areas of eight species (Tetrao parvirostris, T. tetrix, Gulo gulo, Alces alces, Martes zibellina, Moschus moschiferus, Lynx lynx, Lutra lutra). The results showed potential distribution areas for almost all species concentrated in the northern part of the Greater Khingan Mountains (GKM) and the central part of the Lesser Khingan Mountains (LKM). The potential distribution areas of each species were as follows: black‐billed capercaillie, 102,623 km2; black grouse, 162,678 km2; wolverine, 63,410 km2; moose, 140,287 km2; sable, 112,254 km2; Siberian musk deer, 104,787 km2; lynx, 139,912 km2; and Eurasian otter, 49,386 km2. Conservation priority areas (CPAs) clustered in the north GKM and central LKM and totaled 220,801 km2, and only 16.94% of the CPAs were currently protected by nature reserves. We suggest that the Chinese government accelerate the integration of existing protected areas in the northern GKM and establish a larger GKM National Park based on cost‐effective multi‐species protection.
Characteristics and treatment of midlife‐onset epilepsy: A 24‐year single‐center, retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Xu , Xiang Feng , Shi Xiaobing , Wang Ziyu , Li Yang , Zhang Shimin , Lan Xiaoyang , Lang Senyang , Wang Xiangqing
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics, etiology, and treatment of midlife‐onset epilepsy in a real‐world setting at a single center in China.

Methods

The clinical data of patients who attended the epilepsy clinic of the Department of Neurology, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital from February 1999 to March 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The clinical characteristics, etiology, and risk factors for midlife‐onset epilepsy over the past 24 years were analyzed.

Results

Of the 969 patients with onset at 45–64 years of age, 914 were diagnosed with epilepsy with at least two unprovoked seizures 24 h apart. Of those, 99.7% (911) were of focal origin. The median duration from the initial seizure to follow‐up treatment was 2 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 1.0–6.0 months). Before commencing treatment, 30.2% (207/683) of patients experienced more than two seizures. A structural etiology was found in 66.3% (606/914) of patients. Cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) accounted for 19.9% (182/914) and 16.6% (152/914) of the cases, respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that patients with abnormal imaging (odds ratio [OR] 2.04; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.25–3.32; p = .004), focal seizures (OR 2.98; 95%CI 1.82–4.87; p < .001), and seizure clusters (OR 2.40; 95%CI 1.21–4.73; p = .01) had poor drug responses. Treatment outcomes were generally better in patients with epilepsy after CVD (OR .49; 95%CI .28–.85; p = .01). Treatment initiation after two seizures (OR .70; 95%CI .42–1.15; p = .16) or 6 months after the first seizure (OR 1.17; 95%CI .66–2.09; p = .58) did not result in poor drug effectiveness.

Significance

Midlife‐onset epilepsy is typically of focal etiology, with CVD being the most common cause, and tends to respond well to medication. The median duration from the initial seizure to follow‐up treatment was 2 months. Over 30% of patients experienced more than two seizures before commencing treatment, but this did not affect subsequent outcomes.
Rock glaciers as proxy for machine learning based debris‐covered glacier mapping of Kinnaur District, Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Pradhan Ipshita Priyadarsini , Mahanta Kirti Kumar , Tiwari Nishant , Shukla Dericks Praise
Published: June 2024

This research introduces an innovative approach by utilising rock glaciers (RGs) as a proxy for mapping debris‐covered glaciers (DCGs). This approach focuses on the interconnected nature of glaciers, DCGs and RGs in a continuum where DCGs can transform into RGs over time due to various processes. This study utilises six machine learning models—logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM), K‐nearest neighbour (KNN), Naïve Bayes (NB), decision tree (DT) and random forest (RF)—combined with multispectral satellite data (Sentinel‐2 and Landsat 8) and topographical data derived from ALOS PALSAR DEM. Performance metrics such as accuracy, area under the curve (AUC) score, precision, recall and F1‐score were evaluated to assess model performance. This detailed mapping provides a precise estimation of the extent of DCGs in the Kinnaur district. The estimated DCG areas revealed intriguing variation across models, with RF (9.71%), KNN (9.67%) and NB (9.41%) yielding similar predictions. SVM (11.61%) projected a slightly larger DCG area, whereas DT (5.54%) and LR (25.55%) provided contrasting results. Validation against high‐resolution satellite images, Google Earth images and glacier inventories confirmed the accuracy and reliability of our approach. Based on our findings for our specific study, the most effective method for mapping DCGs is RF, followed by KNN, NB, DT and SVM. The combination of machine learning models and RG data presents a novel and promising approach to remote sensing‐based DCG mapping, with potential applications for other regions and broader environmental studies.
COVID‐19 and insurance industry: Initial impact of the pandemic based on time‐frequency methods
Authors: Fareed Zeeshan , Iqbal Najaf , Zhang Shaoyong , Madureira Livia
Published: June 2024

This study uses a wavelet‐based framework to investigate the co‐movement nexus between COVID‐19 and insurance industry returns in emerging and developed markets. Analysis of the daily observations from 22 January 2020 to 14 September 2020 reveals that insurance returns responded strongly and negatively right after the onset of the global COVID‐19 outbreak but asymmetrically later. Additionally, the devastation brought to the insurance industry is comparatively more severe but short‐lived for emerging markets. The wavelet‐based Granger causality and correlation confirm the robustness of our results. Important implications for investors, industry managers, and policymakers are provided in light of the findings in the aftermath of COVID‐19.
Simulating cross‐modal medical images using multi‐task adversarial learning of a deep convolutional neural network
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Sharma Manoj , Jehadeesan R. , Venkatraman B. , Sheet Debdoot
Published: June 2024

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are widely utilized modalities for primary clinical imaging, providing crucial anatomical and pathological information for diagnosis. CT measures X‐ray attenuation, while MRI captures hydrogen atom density in tissues. Despite their distinct imaging physics principles, the signals obtained from both modalities when imaging the same subject can be represented by modality‐specific parameters and common latent variables related to anatomy and pathology. This paper proposes an adversarial learning approach using deep convolutional neural networks to disentangle these factors. This disentanglement allows us to simulate one modality from the other. Experimental results demonstrate our ability to generate synthetic CT images from MRI inputs using the Gold‐atlas dataset, which consists of paired CT‐MRI volumes. Patch‐based learning techniques and a visual Turing test are employed to model discriminator losses. Our approach achieves a mean absolute error of 36.81  4.46 HU, peak signal to noise ratio of 26.12 0.31 dB, and structural similarity measure of 0.9  0.02. Notably, the synthetic CT images accurately represent bones, gaseous cavities, and soft tissue textures, which can be challenging to visualize in MRI. The proposed model operates at an inference compute cost of 430.68 GFlops/voxel. This method can minimize radiation exposure by reducing the need for pre‐operative CT scans, providing an MR‐only alternative in clinical settings.
High‐performance 110 kVp hard x‐ray detector based on all‐crystalline‐surface passivated perovskite single crystals
Authors: Ko Juyoung , Park Beomjun , Byun Jangwon , Pandey Sandeep , Jo Ajin , Lee Joo‐Hong , Lee Wonho , Lee Jin‐Wook , Park Nam‐Gyu , Lee Man‐Jong
Published: June 2024

Halide perovskite single crystals (SCs) have attracted much attention for their application in high‐performance x‐ray detectors owing to their desirable properties, including low defect density, high mobility–lifetime product (μτ), and long carrier diffusion length. However, suppressing the inherent defects in perovskites and overcoming the ion migration primarily caused by these defects remains a challenge. This study proposes a facile process for dipping Cs0.05FA0.9MA0.05PbI3 SCs synthesized by a solution‐based inverse temperature crystallization method into a 2‐phenylethylammonium iodide (PEAI) solution to reduce the number of defects, inhibit ion migration, and increase x‐ray sensitivity. Compared to conventional spin coating, this simple dipping process forms a two‐dimensional PEA2PbI4 layer on all SC surfaces without further treatment, effectively passivating all surfaces of the inherently defective SCs and minimizing ion migration. As a result, the PEAI‐treated perovskite SC‐based x‐ray detector achieves a record x‐ray sensitivity of 1.3 × 105 μC Gyair−1 cm−2 with a bias voltage of 30 V at realistic clinical dose rates of 1–5 mGy s−1 (peak potential of 110 kVp), which is 6 times more sensitive than an untreated SC‐based detector and 3 orders of magnitude more sensitive than a commercial α‐Se‐based detector. Furthermore, the PEAI‐treated‐perovskite SC‐based x‐ray detector exhibits a low detection limit (73 nGy s−1), improved x‐ray response, and clear x‐ray images by a scanning method, highlighting the effectiveness of the PEAI dipping approach for fabricating next‐generation x‐ray detectors.

image
A further investigation regarding the efficacy of and preference for positive and corrective feedback
Authors: Godinez Erik S. , Brand Denys , Miguel Caio F. , Penrod Becky
Published: June 2024

Although feedback is a widely used intervention for improving performance, it is unclear what characteristics individuals prefer and what is necessary for it to be effective. The purpose of this study was to systematically extend Simonian and Brand (2022) by addressing the limitations of the study and adding a best‐treatment phase. During an acquisition phase, participants received either positive, corrective, or no feedback upon task completion. Nine of 10 participants mastered the task that was associated with corrective feedback, and one participant mastered the task with no feedback. Eight participants completed a preference phase in which they were provided a choice of either positive or corrective feedback when learning to play a novel game. Half of the eight participants showed a preference for corrective feedback, and the remaining participants had mixed preferences. Overall, corrective feedback was more efficacious and more preferred than positive feedback.
Raman spectroscopy with an improved support vector machine for discrimination of thyroid and parathyroid tissues
Authors: Hu Jie , Xing Jinyu , Shao Pengfei , Ma Xiaopeng , Li Peikun , Liu Peng , Zhang Ru , Chen Wei , Lei Wang , Xu Ronald X.
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study was to discriminate thyroid and parathyroid tissues using Raman spectroscopy combined with an improved support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. In thyroid surgery, there is a risk of inadvertently removing the parathyroid glands. At present, there is a lack of research on using Raman spectroscopy to discriminate parathyroid and thyroid tissues. In this article, samples were obtained from 43 individuals with thyroid and parathyroid tissues for Raman spectroscopy analysis. This study employed partial least squares (PLS) to reduce dimensions of data, and three optimization algorithms are used to improve the classification accuracy of SVM algorithm model in spectral analysis. The results show that PLS‐GA‐SVM algorithm has higher diagnostic accuracy and better reliability. The sensitivity of this algorithm is 94.67% and the accuracy is 94.44%. It can be concluded that Raman spectroscopy combined with the PLS‐GA‐SVM diagnostic algorithm has significant potential for discriminating thyroid and parathyroid tissues.
CD3+/CD4+ cells combined with myosteatosis predict the prognosis in patients who underwent gastric cancer surgery
Authors: Du Zhongze , Xiao Youming , Deng Guiming , Song Haibin , Xue Yingwei , Song Hongjiang
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate the predictive capacity of lymphocyte subpopulations, sarcopenia and myosteatosis for clinical outcomes in patients who underwent gastric cancer surgery. Additionally, the prognostic significance of CD3+/CD4+ cells in conjunction with myosteatosis was explored.

Methods

A cohort of 190 patients with gastric cancer who underwent surgery and received computed tomography scans between July 2016 and December 2017 at our institution was examined. Complete clinical information and peripheral lymphocyte subpopulations were available for all patients. A comprehensive array of statistical methodologies was employed to scrutinize variances in both clinical and pathological characteristics among patients, with the aim of identifying autonomous prognostic determinants requisite for the development of a nomogram. Subsequent assessment of the predictive efficacy of the nomogram was conducted via calibration curve analysis.

Results

The study comprised a cohort of 190 participants, encompassing 126 males (66.32%) and 64 females (33.68%), with a mean age of 58.47 (±11.37) years. Patients were stratified into three groups based on CD3+/CD4+ cells and myosteatosis, with 24 in Group 1, 87 in Group 2 and 79 in Group 3. Notably, patients in the third group exhibited significantly shorter progression‐free survival (PFS) (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.208, P < 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.193, P < 0.001). The subset of peripheral blood lymphocytes exhibited elevated levels of CD3+/CD4+ cells (HR = 2.485, P < 0.001) and heightened CD4+/CD8+ ratios (HR = 1.705, P = 0.038), whereas diminished CD19+ cell counts (HR = 0.210, P = 0.032) correlated with improved OS in patients. The individuals presenting with sarcopenia (HR = 4.089, P = 0.023) and myosteatosis (HR = 2.857, P < 0.001) displayed reduced OS. The multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that pathological tumour–node–metastasis stage, CD19+ cells, sarcopenia and CD3+/CD4+ cell–myosteatosis were identified as independent prognostic factors for PFS and OS in patients. The constructed nomograms for PFS and OS yielded C‐index values of 0.839 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.798–0.880) and 0.836 (95% CI: 0.792–0.879), respectively. The calibration analysis demonstrated that the nomograms accurately predicted the 3‐ and 5‐year survival rates of PFS and OS in patients.

Conclusions

Lymphocyte subsets, including CD3+/CD4+ cells, CD4+/CD8+ ratio and CD19+ cells, are indicative of clinical prognosis in gastric cancer surgery patients. Body composition parameters, such as sarcopenia and myosteatosis, are also associated with the patient's prognosis. The combination of CD3+/CD4+ cells with myosteatosis demonstrates enhanced prognostic value, enabling the identification of patients at high risk of post‐operative metastasis and recurrence.
Missed opportunity: a clinical data linkage study of guideline‐directed medical therapy and clinical outcomes of patients discharged with acute coronary syndrome who attended cardiac rehabilitation programs
Authors: Gebremichael Lemlem G. , Beleigoli Alline , Foote Jonathon W. , Bulamu Norma B. , Ramos Joyce S. , Suebkinorn Orathai , Redfern Julie , Clark Robyn A. ,   the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Country Heart Attack Prevention Project Team
Published: June 2024

Background

Although guidelines recommend guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT) for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), implementation is limited in clinical practice.

Aim

To assess the level of GDMT in ACS patients after discharge who attended cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs and association with clinical outcomes.

Method

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in 13 rural and 10 metropolitan CR programs via all modes of delivery (face‐to‐face, telephone, or general practice‐hybrid) operating in South Australia, Australia. ACS patients were included if they were ≥18 years of age and were referred and attended CR programs with medication details recorded in their hospital discharge summary. GDMT was assessed according to the Australian clinical guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndromes 2016. Prescription of all the four recommended medication classes was considered optimal. Logistic regression and χ2 test were used for association. Ethical approval was granted by the South Australian Department for Health and Wellbeing Human Research Ethics Committee (Reference No. HREC/15/SAH/63) and the Northern Territory Department of Health Human Research Ethics Committee (Reference No. HREC 2015‐2484) which included a waiver of consent per the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research and the study conforms with the Good Clinical Practice Guidelines.

Results

Of the 1229 patients included, 74.6% were male and 41.1% had acute myocardial infarction. Only 39.7% of patients received optimal prescription. Prescription of any three or two medication class combinations occurred for 78.3% and 94.1% of patients, respectively. Optimal GDMT was associated with fewer hospital admissions (odds ratio = 0.647, 95% confidence interval 0.424–0.987, p = 0.043) with no significant gender association. Women were less likely to be prescribed angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (p = 0.003), angiotensin receptor blockers (p = 0.007), statins (p = 0.005), and any two (p < 0.001) and three combinations (p = 0.023) of medication classes.

Conclusion

GDMT prescription was suboptimal in patients with ACS before attendance at CR. Primary care and CR clinicians have missed an opportunity to implement best practice guideline recommendations, particularly for women.
Effect of joint‐line obliquity on long‐term survivorship of total knee arthroplasty: A postoperative phenotype analysis
Authors: Bae Kinam , Lee Bum‐Sik , Kim Jong‐Min , Bin Seong‐Il , Lee Jongjin , Kim Donghyok , Jeon Taehyeon
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Whether the longevity of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) differs between postoperative phenotypes has not been investigated. This study aims to examine which phenotype has a worse long‐term survival rate than the reference phenotype (neutral alignment‐parallel joint line), and whether joint‐line obliquity (JLO) affects the survivorship of TKA.

Methods

A total of 945 knees that underwent primary TKAs for primary osteoarthritis from January 2000 to January 2009 were included. These were classified into nine postoperative phenotypes based on the combined assessment of the hip–knee–ankle (HKA) angle and JLO, measured on standing radiographs. The 5‐, 10‐ and 15‐year survival rates were analysed using Kaplan–Meier methods and log‐rank tests. The long‐term survival rates of each phenotype were compared with the reference phenotype.

Results

There were 55 aseptic mechanical failures within a period of 10.4 ± 5.0 years. The most frequently observed phenotypes were the reference phenotype (n = 527), neutral alignment‐lateral joint‐line inclination (n = 162), varus alignment‐lateral joint‐line inclination (n = 104) and varus alignment‐parallel joint line (n = 101). The overall failure rate for each phenotype was 3.6%, 3.7%, 18.3% and 7.9%, respectively. Only the 10‐ and 15‐year survival rates of the varus alignment‐lateral joint‐line inclination phenotype were significantly different from those of the reference phenotype (97%–93% vs. 90%–69%; p = 0.017, <0.001).

Conclusion

The lateral joint‐line inclination phenotype had an inferior long‐term survival rate after varus‐aligned TKA. This suggested that alignment and JLO affected the long‐term survival rate of patients who underwent TKA.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Postoperative Time and Anatomic Location Influence Skin Graft Reperfusion Assessed With Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging
Authors: Pinho André , Brinca Ana , Xará Joana , Batista Mariana , Vieira Ricardo
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Under optimal conditions, afferent and efferent human skin graft microcirculation can be restored 8–12 days postgrafting. Still, the evidence about the reperfusion dynamics beyond this period in a dermato‐oncologic setting is scant. We aimed to characterise the reperfusion of human skin grafts over 4 weeks according to the necrosis extension (less than 20%, or 20%–50%) and anatomic location using laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI).

Methods

Over 16 months, all eligible adults undergoing skin grafts following skin cancer removal on the scalp, face and lower limb were enroled. Perfusion was assessed with LSCI on the wound margin (control skin) on day 0 and on the graft surface on days 7, 14, 21 and 28. Graft necrosis extension was determined on day 28.

Results

Forty‐seven grafts of 47 participants were analysed. Regardless of necrosis extension, graft perfusion equalled the control skin by day 7, surpassed it by day 21, and stabilised onwards. Grafts with less than 20% necrosis on the scalp and lower limb shared this reperfusion pattern and had a consistently better‐perfused centre than the periphery for the first 21 days. On the face, the graft perfusion did not differ from the control skin from day 7 onwards, and there were no differences in reperfusion within the graft during the study.

Conclusion

Skin graft reperfusion is a protracted process that evolves differently in the graft centre and periphery, influenced by postoperative time and anatomic location. A better knowledge of this process can potentially enhance the development of strategies to induce vessel ingrowth into tissue‐engineered skin substitutes.
Reading the signs in health visits—Perspectives of adolescents with migration experiences on encounters with school nurses
Authors: Wahlström Emmie , Harder Maria , Holmström Inger K. , Larm Peter , Golsäter Marie
Published: June 2024

Aim

To explore the experiences of health visits within the school health services from the perspective of adolescents with migration experiences.

Design

A descriptive qualitative study.

Methods

Data were collected using focus groups and semi‐structured individual interviews with adolescents with migration experiences aged 13–17 years old. Analysis was conducted using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

The results described adolescents reading the signs in the guided interaction between them and the school nurses. Reading the signs illustrated the adolescents' continuous interpretation of the interaction with the school nurse, and their decisions on how to respond throughout the health visit. These interpretations influenced the adolescents' shifting willingness to talk about their health and how they adapted to the space of participation provided by the school nurse. The interpretation also influenced their experiences of health visits as focusing on their health without making them feel singled out.

Conclusion

Although individual considerations might be warranted in health visits with adolescents with migration experiences, the results indicate that similarities in intrapersonal communication in various encounters between adolescents and health professionals might be greater than any differences. Healthcare encounters with adolescents with migration experiences might thus need to be conducted with an awareness that adolescents read the signs in the guided interaction and that similarities in this interaction are greater than any differences.
Exploring a process‐relational approach to qualitative research methods for sustainability science
Authors: Mancilla García María , Abunge Caroline , Bandeira Salomão Olinda , Cheupe Christopher , Combane Dadivo José , Daw Tim , Drury O’Neill Elizabeth Maria , Hertz Tilman , Mubai Marlino , Muthiga Nyawira , Sonetti González Taís , Shauri Halimu
Published: June 2024

As sustainability scientists increasingly put forward the relevance of process‐relational approaches to make sense of social‐ecological phenomena, an inquiry on which methods would fit a process‐relational approach is necessary.

This paper discusses how a process‐relational approach can be applied to traditional qualitative research methods, namely interviews and coding and the tensions associated with it.

Process‐relational perspectives share commonalities with interpretative approaches but also present specific characteristics, such as the importance of material aspects and the understanding of the phenomenon as a moment in which different elements become defined respective to each other.

The paper uses data and researchers' experiences from an action research project seeking to support collective action among coastal communities affected by environmental changes in Kenya and Mozambique.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Upgrading the properties of polylactic acid/luffa fiber biocomposites through the addition of maleic anhydride grafted styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene impact modifier
Authors: Rahem Zahir , Mayouf Imane , Guessoum Melia
Published: June 2024

To enhance the adhesion at the interface between polylactic acid (PLA) and local luffa fibers (LFs), and improve the properties of these fully biodegradable biocomposites, 10% of maleic anhydride grafted Styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene (SEBS‐g‐MA) is added to act concomitantly as compatibilizer and toughening agent. PLA/LF and PLA/SEBS‐g‐MA/LF biocomposite materials were manufactured by melt mixing and then characterized by torque assessment, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Izod impact test. In accordance with SEM observation, FTIR analysis and torque measurements, the interfacial bonding coupling the PLA chains to LF via SEBS backbones resulted from the chemical reactions between the functional groups of the composites components. This contributed in increasing notably the impact resistance and the thermal stability compared with the biocomposites without SEBS‐g‐MA. In addition, the improvement of the impact strength might be induced by the flexible ethylene‐butylene blocks, which act as impact absorbers due to their rubber‐like behavior.
Effective and fast removal of ionic dyes from contaminated water using multi‐walled carbon nanotubes decorated with polyelectrolyte brushes
Authors: Alfhaid Latifah H. , Alshammeri Hind K. , Lahmadi Shatha S. , Beagan Abeer M. , Alotaibi Khalid M. , Almeateq Mohammed S. , Alswieleh Abdullah M.
Published: June 2024

In this work, new nanoadsorbents consisting of polymer‐modified multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used to remove toxic ionic dyes, of methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO), effectively from aqueous solutions. The MWCNTs were coated with polymer brushes of poly(potassium 3‐sulfopropyl methacrylate) (PKSPMA) and poly(2‐methacryloyloxyethyltrimethylammonium chloride) (PMETAC) via surface‐initiated atom transfer‐radical polymerization. The PKSPMA@MWCNTs and PMETAC@MWCNTs delivered removal efficiencies of ~80% at pH 7. Maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) reached 411.62 mg/g for MB using PKSPMA@MWCNTs and 224.60 mg/g for MO using PMETAC@MWCNTs, showcasing the effectiveness of these novel nanoadsorbents. The experimental results were analyzed using adsorption isotherm models (Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin) and kinetic models (pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order, and intraparticle diffusion). The Freundlich model provided an excellent fit for MB adsorption on both adsorbents, whereas the Temkin model best described MO adsorption on PKSPMA@MWCNTs and the Langmuir model on PMETAC@MWCNTs. The fitting results showed that the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model was the most accurate fit for MB and MO adsorption on both nanoadsorbents, suggesting that the removal mechanism was chemisorption. In conclusion, PKSPMA@MWCNTs and PMETAC@MWCNTs demonstrate significant potential as effective adsorbents for dye removal from water, providing a promising approach for water treatment and environmental remediation.
Surgical aspects and outcomes after nephrectomy for Wilms tumour in sub‐Saharan Africa: A report from Wilms Africa Phase II—CANCaRe Africa
Authors: Appeadu‐Mensah William , Mdoka Cecilia , Alemu Seifu , Yifieyeh Abiboye , Kaplamula Tiya , Oyania Felix , Chagaluka George , Mulugeta Gersam Abera , Kudowa Evaristar , Yimer Mulugeta , Renner Lorna Awo , Paintsil Vivian , Chitsike Inam , Molyneux Elizabeth , Atwiine Barnabas , Kouya Francine , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Abdelhafeez Hafeez , Dessalegne Andient , Mbuwayesango Bothwell , Georges Ngock , Israels Trijn , Borgstein Eric
Published: June 2024

Background

Wilms tumour (WT) is one of the common and curable cancer types targeted by the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer. Tumour excision is essential for cure. This analysis focuses on surgical outcomes of patients with WT in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Methods

We implemented a risk‐stratified WT treatment guideline as a multicentre, prospective study across eight hospitals and six countries. Eligibility criteria were age 6 months to 16 years, unilateral WT, surgery performed after preoperative chemotherapy and diagnosed between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2022. Data collection included a specific surgical case report form (CRF).

Results

The study registered 230 patients, among whom 164 (71.3%) had a nephrectomy. Ninety‐eight percent of patients had a completed surgical CRF. Out 164 patients, 50 (30.5%) had distant metastases. Median tumour diameter at surgery was 11.0 cm. Lymph node sampling was done in 122 (74.3%) patients, 34 (20.7%) had intraoperative tumour rupture, and for 18 (10.9%), tumour resection involved en bloc resection of another organ. Tumour size at surgery was significantly correlated with tumour rupture (p < .01). With a median follow‐up of 17 months (range: 2–33), 23 (14.0%) patients have relapsed. Twenty‐two (13.4%) patients abandoned treatment post nephrectomy. Two‐year event‐free survival was 60.4% ± 4.7% with treatment abandonment as an event.

Conclusion

Survival post nephrectomy is challenged by treatment abandonment, treatment‐related mortality and relapse. Large tumours after preoperative chemotherapy were associated with a higher risk of tumour rupture. Earlier diagnosis and access to radiotherapy are expected to improve survival.