bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasmonic effects in the neutralization of slow ions at a metallic surface
Authors: Bercx Marnik , Mayda Selma , Depla Diederik , Partoens Bart , Lamoen Dirk
Published: September 2023

Secondary electron emission is an important process that plays a significant role in several plasma‐related applications. As measuring the secondary electron yield experimentally is very challenging, quantitative modelling of this process to obtain reliable yield data is critical as input for higher‐scale simulations. Here, we build upon our previous work combining density functional theory calculations with a model originally developed by Hagstrum to extend its application to metallic surfaces. As plasmonic effects play a much more important role in the secondary electron emission mechanism for metals, we introduce an approach based on Poisson point processes to include both surface and bulk plasmon excitations to the process. The resulting model is able to reproduce the yield spectra of several available experimental results quite well but requires the introduction of global fitting parameters, which describe the strength of the plasmon interactions. Finally, we use an in‐house developed workflow to calculate the electron yield for a list of elemental surfaces spanning the periodic table to produce an extensive data set for the community and compare our results with more simplified approaches from the literature.
FBAR: An effective method for resolving large‐scale IPv6 aliases
Authors: Liu Mengfan , Guo Yi , Zhang Hongtao , Zhang Liancheng , Mao Baolei , Fang Mingzhu , Zhang Quan
Published: September 2023

With the promotion and application of IPv6 in the world, there is a growing demand for IPv6 alias resolution. How to resolve IPv6 alias efficiently and accurately becomes an urgent problem to be solved. After analyzing the features of IPv6 addresses, this paper proposes a large‐scale adaptive IPv6 alias resolution method based on fingerprint information by combining Too‐Big Trick, UAv6, APD, and other alias resolution algorithms. It sends ICMPv6 probe packets to different types of IPv6 addresses to get the fingerprint information of target hosts. After filtering the classified addresses, our proposed alias resolution method is adaptively selected to resolve alias addresses. In the experiment, we use multi‐thread method to resolve the aliases of large‐scale IPv6 addresses, which greatly improves the efficiency of detection. Meanwhile, we use IPv6 datasets collected from the organizations RIPE and CAIDA. By comparing with Speedtrap and Too‐Big Trick, we confirm the accuracy of this method and obtain more alias pairs.
Prenatal serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant exposure, SLC6A4 genetic variations, and cortisol activity in 6‐year‐old children of depressed mothers: A cohort study
Authors: Zusman Enav Z. , Chau Cecil M. Y. , Bone Jeffrey N. , Hookenson Kaia , Brain Ursula , Glier Melissa B. , Grunau Ruth E. , Weinberg Joanne , Devlin Angela M. , Oberlander Tim F.
Published: September 2023

Prenatal exposure to maternal depression and serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) antidepressants both affect the development of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) system, possibly via the neurotransmitter serotonin (5HT). In a community cohort, we investigated the impact of two factors that shape prenatal 5HT signaling (prenatal SRI [pSRI] exposure and child SLC6A4 genotype) on HPA activity at age 6 years. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were used to study associations between cortisol reactivity, pSRI exposure, and child SLC6A4 genotype, controlling for maternal depression, child age, and sex (48 pSRI exposed, 74 nonexposed). Salivary cortisol levels were obtained at five time points during a laboratory stress challenge: arrival at the laboratory, following two sequential developmental assessments, and then 20 and 40 min following the onset of a stress‐inducing cognitive/social task. Cortisol decreased from arrival across both developmental assessments, and then increased across both time points following the stress challenge in both groups. pSRI‐exposed children had lower cortisol levels across all time points. In a separate GEE model, we observed a lower cortisol stress response among children with LG/S alleles compared with children with La/La alleles, and this was particularly evident among children of mothers reporting greater third trimester depressed mood. Our findings suggest that pSRI exposure and a genetic factor associated with modulating 5HT signaling shaped HPA reactivity to a laboratory stress challenge at school age.
5‐HT1A regulates axon outgrowth in a subpopulation of Drosophila serotonergic neurons
Authors: Long Delaney R. , Kinser Ava , Olalde‐Welling Abby , Brewer Luke , Lim Juri , Matheny Dayle , Long Breanna , Roossien Douglas H.
Published: September 2023

Serotonergic neurons produce extensively branched axons that fill most of the central nervous system, where they modulate a wide variety of behaviors. Many behavioral disorders have been correlated with defective serotonergic axon morphologies. Proper behavioral output therefore depends on the precise outgrowth and targeting of serotonergic axons during development. To direct outgrowth, serotonergic neurons utilize serotonin as a signaling molecule prior to it assuming its neurotransmitter role. This process, termed serotonin autoregulation, regulates axon outgrowth, branching, and varicosity development of serotonergic neurons. However, the receptor that mediates serotonin autoregulation is unknown. Here we asked if serotonin receptor 5‐HT1A plays a role in serotonergic axon outgrowth and branching. Using cultured Drosophila serotonergic neurons, we found that exogenous serotonin reduced axon length and branching only in those expressing 5‐HT1A. Pharmacological activation of 5‐HT1A led to reduced axon length and branching, whereas the disruption of 5‐HT1A rescued outgrowth in the presence of exogenous serotonin. Altogether this suggests that 5‐HT1A is a serotonin autoreceptor in a subpopulation of serotonergic neurons and initiates signaling pathways that regulate axon outgrowth and branching during Drosophila development.
Rapid detection of 10 benzodiazepines and metabolites in blood and urine using DART‐MS/MS
Authors: Liu Fubang , Zhang Ying , Wang Jifen , Ji Jiahua
Published: September 2023

Benzodiazepines are essential screening targets for common sleeping and sedative drugs used in forensic toxicology. Direct analysis in real‐time tandem mass spectrometry was used to rapidly identify 10 benzodiazepines and related metabolites in the blood and urine. The related direct analysis in real‐time tandem mass spectrometry parameters were optimized. A liquid–liquid extraction method using ethyl acetate as the extraction solvent was used for sample preparation. The established method was validated and tested on case specimens. The limits of detection of this method ranged from 0.2 to 20 ng/mL and the limits of quantification from 1 to 50 ng/mL. The recoveries ranged from 78.8% to 114%, and the matrix effects were in the range of −21.2% to 17.9%. The precision and repeatability at high and medium concentrations did not exceed 14.6%, and the limit of quantification did not exceed 18.2%, indicating a desirable linear relationship. The established method was used to determine blood and urine specimens from authentic cases, and promising results were obtained.
Elevated lipid class concentrations in females with anorexia nervosa before and after intensive weight restoration treatment—A lipidomics study
Authors: Hussain Alia Arif , Bilgin Mesut , Carlsson Jessica , Foged Mads Møller , Mortensen Erik Lykke , Bulik Cynthia M. , Støving René Klinkby , Sjögren Jan Magnus
Published: September 2023

Objective

To study the plasma lipidome of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) before and after weight restoration treatment and report associations with AN subtypes and oral contraceptive pill (OCP) usage.

Methods

Quantitative shotgun lipidomics analysis was used to study plasma lipids of 50 female patients with AN before and after weight restoration treatment and 50 healthy female controls (HC). The AN group was assessed with blood samples and questionnaires before and after weight restoration.

Results

In total we quantified 260 lipid species representing 26 lipid classes of which 13 lipid class concentrations were elevated in patients with AN at admission compared with HC. Lipid classes remained elevated after weight restoration treatment of 84 days (median; interquartile range 28), and only the concentration of the ceramide lipid class increased between pre‐ and post‐treatment (p = .03), whereas lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC, p = .02), ether‐linked Phosphatidylcholine (LPCO, p = .02), and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE, p = .009) decreased.

Conclusion

In AN, 13 out of 26 lipid class concentrations were elevated at admission and remained elevated post‐treatment. Ceramides increased further between pre‐ and post‐weight restoration treatment, which could be related to the rapid weight gain during re‐nutrition. Further research is needed to elucidate the effects of weight restoration treatment on short‐ and long‐term lipid profiles in individuals with AN.

Public Significance Statement

Lipidomics research can increase the understanding of AN, a complex and potentially life‐threatening eating disorder. By analyzing lipids, or fats, in the body, we can identify biological markers that may inform diagnosis and develop more effective treatments. This research can also shed light on the underlying mechanisms of the disorder, leading to a better understanding of the processes involved in eating behavior.
Which people with diabetes are treated with a disposable, half‐unit insulin pen? A real‐world, retrospective, database study in Spain
Authors: Ampudia‐Blasco F. Javier , Duque Natalia , Artime Esther , Caveda Elena , Spaepen Erik , Díaz‐Cerezo Silvia , de Santos Miriam Rubio‐ , Velasco Daniel Callejo , Bahíllo‐Curieses M. Pilar
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Insulin lispro 100 units/mL Jr KwikPen is the first prefilled, disposable, half‐unit insulin pen that delivers 0.5–30 units in increments of 0.5 units for the treatment of patients with diabetes. This study describes the profile of patients in Spain who initiated insulin therapy with Jr KwikPen in a real‐world setting.

Methods

This retrospective, observational study based on IQVIA's electronic medical records database included patients with Type 1 (T1D) or Type 2 (T2D) diabetes who initiated therapy with Jr KwikPen between May 2018 and December 2020. Sociodemographic, clinical, and treatment characteristics at treatment initiation were analysed descriptively.

Results

A total of 416 patients were included. The main characteristics of the T1D/T2D groups (N = 326/90), respectively were as follows: female sex, 61.7%/65.6%; mean age (standard deviation [SD]), 32.5 (20.7)/55.5 (16.6) years; body mass index, 20.9 (4.2)/25.2 (4.6) kg/m2 (N = 239/77); HbA1c, 7.8 (1.7)%/8.0 (1.5)% (N = 141/64); and presence of diabetes‐associated comorbidities, 27.9%/64.4%. Only 32.8% of patients with T1D were < 18 years old. Among Jr KwikPen users, 12.3% (T1D/T2D, 7.7%/28.9%) were ≥ 65 years old, 17.1% patients were newly diagnosed, and 3.8% were pregnant women. The mean (SD) total insulin dose pre‐index for T1D/T2D was 43.1 (23.6) and 40.7 (21.6) UI/day, respectively. The mean (SD) insulin dose at the start of Jr KwikPen use was 26.63 (16.56) and 22.58 (13.59) UI/day for T1D/T2D, respectively. Jr KwikPen was first prescribed mainly by endocrinologists (58.7%) or paediatricians (22.6%).

Conclusions

The profile of patients who initiated therapy with Jr KwikPen in routine practice was broad with many patients being adults. Most of these patients had T1D, inadequate glycemic control, and multiple associated comorbidities. These results suggest that Jr KwikPen is prescribed in patients who may benefit from finer insulin dose adjustments, namely children, adolescents, adults, older individuals, or pregnant women with T1D or T2D.
Bioprocess development for endospore production by Bacillus coagulans using an optimized chemically defined medium
Authors: Biermann Riekje , Rösner Laura , Beyer Lisa‐Marie , Niemeyer Laura , Beutel Sascha
Published: September 2023

Bacillus coagulans is a promising probiotic, because it combines probiotic properties of Lactobacillus and the ability of Bacillus to form endospores. Due to this hybrid relationship, cultivation of this organism is challenging. As the probiotics market continues to grow, there is a new focus on the production of these microorganisms. In this work, a strain‐specific bioprocess for B. coagulans was developed to support growth on one hand and ensure sporulation on the other hand. This circumstance is not trivial, since these two metabolic states are contrary. The developed bioprocess uses a modified chemically defined medium which was further investigated in a one‐factor‐at‐a‐time assay after adaptation. A transfer from the shake flask to the bioreactor was successfully demonstrated in the scope of this work. The investigated process parameters included temperature, agitation and pH‐control. Especially the pH‐control improved the sporulation in the bioreactor when compared to shake flasks. The bioprocess resulted in a sporulation efficiency of 80%–90%. This corresponds to a sevenfold increase in sporulation efficiency due to a transfer to the bioreactor with pH‐control. Additionally, a design of experiment (DoE) was conducted to test the robustness of the bioprocess. This experiment validated the beforementioned sporulation efficiency for the developed bioprocess. Afterwards the bioprocess was then scaled up from a 1 L scale to a 10 L bioreactor scale. A comparable sporulation efficiency of 80% as in the small scale was achieved. The developed bioprocess facilitates the upscaling and application to an industrial scale, and can thus help meet the increasing market for probiotics.
Polymer‐Derived Ceramic Aerogels to Immobilize Sulfur for Li‐S Batteries
Authors: Zambotti Andrea , Qu Fangmu , Costa Giacomo , Graczyk-Zajac Magdalena , Sorarù Gian Domenico
Published: September 2023

Lithium–sulfur batteries are among the promising high‐capacity candidates owing to the superior theoretical capacity of sulfur, when compared with conventional cathodes such as LiCoO2. However, several issues must be addressed before these batteries can be considered fully operational. Major issues regard the insulating nature of sulfur and the so‐called shuttle effect of soluble polysulfides, which dramatically reduces the cathode capacity upon cycling. Herein, three carbon‐containing polymer‐derived ceramic aerogels are characterized belonging to the Si‐C‐O and Si‐C‐N systems, infiltrated with sulfur to work as cathodes for Li‐S batteries. The electrochemical performances are evaluated in relation to the microstructural and chemical features of such materials. In particular, the effect of the pore size of the ceramic matrices on the shuttling behavior of polysulfides is investigated. Despite the high initial specific capacities exceeding hundreds of mAh g−1, all types of cathodes show stable capacities in the 60–120 mAh g−1 range after 100 cycles.
Improved Backward Smoothing Square Root Cubature Kalman Filtering and Fractional Order—Battery Equivalent Modeling for Adaptive State of Charge Estimation of Lithium‐Ion Batteries in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Zhou Jiani , Wang Shunli , Cao Wen , Xie Yanxin , Fernandez Carlos
Published: September 2023

The accuracy of lithium‐ion battery state of charge (SOC) estimation affects the driving distance, battery life, and safety performance of electric vehicles. Herein, the polarization reaction inside the battery is modeled using a second‐order fractional‐order equivalent circuit model and uses an adaptive genetic algorithm for model parameter identification. Then, an improved adaptive fractional‐order backward smoothing square root cubature Kalman filtering algorithm (AFOBS‐SRCKF) is proposed by integrating Sage Husa adaptive filtering and backward smoothing processes to optimize the square root cubature Kalman filter for improving the accuracy and adaptability of real‐time estimation of SOC in a complex environment. Finally, the algorithm is compared with the integer‐order SRCKF, fractional‐order SRCKF through simulation, and fractional‐order backward smoothing SRCKF through simulation. Under complex operating conditions, the error sum of SOC estimation of the AFOBS‐SRCKF algorithm is controlled within 1.0% and the convergence speed is improved by at least 30%. The results show that the AFOBS‐SRCKF algorithm effectively improves the accuracy, stability, and convergence of SOC estimation.
Sex and gonadectomy modify behavioral seizure susceptibility and mortality in a repeated low‐dose kainic acid systemic injection paradigm in mice
Authors: Lawande Niraj V. , Conklin Elisabeth A. , Christian‐Hinman Catherine A.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Sex differences in epilepsy appear driven in part due to effects of gonadal steroids, with varying results in experimental models based on species, strain, and method of seizure induction. Furthermore, removing the main source of these steroids via gonadectomy may impact seizure characteristics differently in males and females. Repeated low‐dose kainic acid (RLDKA) systemic injection paradigms were recently shown to reliably induce status epilepticus (SE) and hippocampal histopathology in C57BL/6J mice. Here, we investigated whether seizure susceptibility in a RLDKA injection protocol exhibits a sex difference and whether gonadectomy differentially influences response to this seizure induction paradigm in males and females.

Methods

Adult C57BL/6J mice were left gonad‐intact as controls or gonadectomized (females: ovariectomized, OVX; males: orchidectomized, ORX). At least 2 weeks later, KA was injected ip, every 30 minutes at 7.5 mg/kg or less until the animal reached SE, defined by at least 5 generalized seizures (GS, Racine stage 3 or higher). Parameters of susceptibility to GS induction, SE development, and mortality rates were quantified.

Results

No differences in seizure susceptibility or mortality were observed between control males and control females. Gonadectomized mice exhibited increased susceptibility and reduced latency to both GS and SE in comparison to corresponding controls of the same sex, but the effects were stronger in males. In addition, ORX males, but not OVX females, exhibited strongly increased seizure‐induced mortality.

Significance

The RLDKA protocol is notable for its efficacy in inducing SE and seizure‐induced histopathology in C57BL/6J mice, the background for many transgenic strains in current use in epilepsy research. The present results indicate that this protocol may be beneficial for investigating the effects of gonadal hormone replacement on seizure susceptibility, mortality, and seizure‐induced histopathology, and that gonadectomy unmasks sex differences in susceptibility to seizures and mortality not observed in gonad‐intact controls.
Numerical prediction of the solidification and melting of encapsulated nano‐enhanced phase change materials
Authors: Cofré‐Toledo Jonathan , Muñoz‐Cuevas Francisco , Jofré‐Severino Emilio , Segura‐Ponce Luis A. , Vasco Diego A.
Published: September 2023

The thermal properties of Octadecane vary due to the addition of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles. The synthesis of two nano‐enhanced phase change material (NEPCM) required the implementation of the two‐step method, using Octadecane as the base phase change material and CuO nanoparticles at 2.5 and 5.0 wt%. The experimental characterization determined the specific heat capacity, and thermal conductivity of the NEPCMs solid phase, including phase change enthalpy and temperature. These experimental results were then utilized for computational simulation of the thermal charging (solidification) and discharging (melting) processes of NEPCMs within a spherical enclosure, employing the ANSYS/Fluent software. The incorporation of CuO nanoparticles led to an increase in thermal conductivity while causing a decrease in specific heat capacity, enthalpy, and phase change temperature of Octadecane. The computational results revealed a reduction in the melting period and an improvement in the solidification of both NEPCMs. In terms of melting, the convective heat transfer coefficient increased by approximately 27.4% and 3.2% for the NEPCM at 2.5 and 5.0 wt% CuO, respectively. During the solidification process, the overall heat transfer coefficient experienced a significant increase of 43.8% and 59.8% for the NEPCM at 2.5 and 5.0 wt%, respectively.
Bureaucratizing like a girl: Objectivity and the reinforcement of patriarchy at an Israeli government committee
Authors: Assor Yael
Published: September 2023

What does it mean for women bureaucrats to work “objectively?” How does the attempt to work objectively affect the hierarchal structure and the preservation of women in lower positions, two interrelated key elements of patriarchal ideology? The bureaucratic staff of the Israeli Sal Committee offers a unique case study to examine this question. Aware of the life‐and‐death implications of committee decisions, this all‐women staff attempt to work “objectively,” which they interpret as compiling and presenting data that carries no marks of their positions. To fulfill this ideal, staffers inhibited themselves from speaking in committee discussions. Consequently, they were treated as “good bureaucrats” but also as “women bureaucrats” and their work remained mainly unacknowledged. Aspiring for non‐positional objectivity thus contributed to preserving their lower positioning and reaffirming their bureaucracy's hierarchal structure. But this disposition also forged an a‐hierarchal work style within the staff, presenting a feminist alternative to mainstream bureaucracy. This ethnography suggests that an ethics of objectivity may carry more diverse possibilities than is commonly hypothesized in feminist critiques of objectivity.
The effects of double gelatin containing chitosan nanoparticles–calcium alginate coatings on the stability of chicken breast meat
Authors: Safari Rashid , Yaghoubi Milad , Marcinkowska‐Lesiak Monika , Paya Hamid , Sun Xiaohong , Rastgoo Anahita , Rafiee Mirmehdi , Alirezalu Kazem
Published: September 2023

The effects of gelatin coatings (2% and 4%) containing chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs; 1% and 2%), in combination with calcium‐alginate coatings (CA; 2%), on quality attributes and shelf life of chicken breast meat were evaluated at 4°C for 12 days. The results indicated that double‐active gelatin–calcium alginate coatings had significant (p < .05) effects on moisture and protein content. Incorporation of ChNPs into double gelatin‐CA coatings led to significant reduction (p < .05) in TBARS, pH, and TVB‐N values at the end of storage. The counts of total viable count (TVC), coliforms, yeasts, and molds were significantly (p < .05) lower in all coated samples, particularly in treated samples by 4% gelatin containing 2% ChNPs + 2% CA coatings (6.85, 6.78, and 5.91 log CFU/g, respectively, compared with 8.35, 8.76, and 7.71 log CFU/g in control) at the end of keeping time. The results of sensory attributes showed that the coated samples had higher overall acceptability scores compared with the untreated samples. A synergistic relationship between the concentrations of gelatin and ChNPs was observed in maintaining the quality characteristics of meat samples during storage. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the performance of double gelatin coating containing ChNPs in combination with CA coating in the storage quality improvement of chicken breast meat stored for 12 days at 4 °C to develop novel and practical coatings for meat and meat products.
Early life exposure to cold weather shocks and growth stunting: Evidence from Tanzania
Authors: Hongoli Josephat J. , Hahn Youjin
Published: September 2023

This study examines the effects of early life and in utero exposure to cold weather shocks on the incidence of growth stunting for children under age five in Tanzania. We find that an increase of 10 percentage points in the proportion of days with temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius (one standard deviation below the long‐term average) is associated with an increase in the probability of stunting and severe stunting by 2.0 and 1.4 percentage points (equivalent to 5.5 and 9.7 percent of the mean stunting and severe stunting), respectively. The results also show strong effects of in utero exposure during the second trimester of pregnancy on child stunting and wasting. In terms of the mechanisms, we find that the effects on disease environment, food insecurity, and reduced agricultural productivity are the possible channels driving the results.
When good signatures go bad: Applying hydrologic signatures in large sample studies
Authors: McMillan Hilary , Coxon Gemma , Araki Ryoko , Salwey Saskia , Kelleher Christa , Zheng Yanchen , Knoben Wouter , Gnann Sebastian , Seibert Jan , Bolotin Lauren
Published: September 2023

Hydrologic signatures are quantitative metrics that describe streamflow statistics and dynamics. Signatures have many applications, including assessing habitat suitability and hydrologic alteration, calibrating and evaluating hydrologic models, defining similarity between watersheds and investigating watershed processes. Increasingly, signatures are being used in large sample studies to guide flow management and modelling at continental scales. Using signatures in studies involving 1000s of watersheds brings new challenges as it becomes impractical to examine signature parameters and behaviour in each watershed. For example, we might wish to check that signatures describing flood event characteristics have correctly identified event periods, that signature values have not been biassed by data errors, or that human and natural influences on signature values have been correctly interpreted. In this commentary, we draw from our collective experience to present case studies where naïve application of signatures fails to correctly identify streamflow dynamics. These include unusual precipitation or flow regimes, data quality issues, and signature use in human‐influenced watersheds. We conclude by providing guidance and recommendations on applying signatures in large sample studies.
The impact of the temporal sequence of cranial radiotherapy and platin‐based chemotherapy on hearing impairment in pediatric and adolescent CNS and head‐and‐neck cancer patients: A report from the PanCareLIFE consortium
Authors: Scobioala Sergiu , Parfitt Ross , Matulat Peter , Byrne Julianne , Langer Thorsten , Troschel Fabian M. , Hesping Amélie E. , Clemens Eva , Kaatsch Peter , Grabow Desiree , Kaiser Melanie , Spix Claudia , Kremer Leontien C. , Calaminus Gabriele , Baust Katja , Kuehni Claudia E. , Weiss Annette , Strebel Sven , Kuonen Rahel , Elsner Susanne , Haupt Riccardo , Garré Maria‐Luisa , Gruhn Bernd , Kepak Tomas , Kepakova Katerina , Winther Jeanette Falck , Kenborg Line , Rechnitzer Catherine , Hasle Henrik , Kruseova Jarmila , Luks Ales , Lackner Herwig , Bielack Stefan , Beck Jörn‐Dirk , Jürgens Heribert , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , Zolk Oliver , Eich Hans Theodor , am Zehnhoff‐Dinnesen Antoinette ,   the PanCareLIFE Consortium
Published: September 2023

The impact of the temporal sequence by which cranial radiotherapy (CRT) and platin‐based chemotherapy (PCth) are administered on sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in pediatric and adolescent central nervous system (CNS) and head‐and‐neck (HN) cancer patients has not yet been studied in detail. We examined the ototoxic effects of sequentially applied CRT and PCth. This study included children and adolescents with CNS and HN tumors who participated in the multicountry PanCareLIFE (PCL) consortium. Audiological outcomes were compared between patients who received CRT prior to PCth and those who received it afterwards. The incidence, degree and posttreatment progression of SNHL, defined as Muenster classification grade ≥MS2b, were evaluated in 141 patients. One hundred and nineteen patients were included in a time‐to‐onset analysis. Eighty‐eight patients received CRT prior to PCth (Group 1) and 53 patients received PCth before CRT (Group 2). Over a median follow‐up time of 1.6 years, 72.7% of patients in Group 1 experienced SNHL ≥ MS2b compared to 33.9% in Group 2 (P < .01). A time‐to‐onset analysis was performed for 74 patients from Group 1 and 45 patients from Group 2. Median time to hearing loss (HL) ≥ MS2b was 1.2 years in Group 1 and 4.4 years in Group 2 (P < .01). Thus, audiological outcomes were better for patients who received CRT after PCth than before. This finding should be further evaluated and considered within clinical practice in order to minimize hearing loss in children and adolescents with CNS and HN tumors.
Weight‐based versus fixed dose oxytocin infusion for preventing uterine atony during cesarean section in laboring patients: A randomized trial
Authors: Tyagi Asha , Bodh Poonam , Mohta Medha , Gupta Bindiya
Published: September 2023

Objective

We compared efficacy of weight‐based (0.4 IU/kg/h) versus fixed‐dose (34 IU/h) oxytocin infusion during cesarean section.

Methods

The oxytocin infusion in either group (n = 32 each) was initiated upon cord clamping. Primary outcome measure was adequacy of uterine tone at 4 min after initiating oxytocin infusion. Oxytocin associated side effects were also observed.

Results

Significantly less oxytocin was used with the weight‐based versus fixed‐dose regimen (16.3 [11.2–22.4] IU vs 20.4 [15.8–26.9] IU; P = 0.036). Incidence of adequate uterine tone was clinically greater but not significantly different with the weight‐based versus fixed‐dose regimen (81.3% vs 71.9%; P = 0.376). The weight‐based regimen was associated with clinically lesser, although not statistically significant need for rescue oxytocin (25% vs 46.9%; P = 0.068) and additional uterotonic (9.4% vs 15.6%; P = 0.708); as well as oxytocin associated side effects (hypotension [34.4% vs 46.9%; P = 0.309], nausea/vomiting [18.8% vs 40.6%; P = 0.055], and ST‐T changes [0% vs 3.1%; P = 1.000]).

Conclusion

Weight‐based oxytocin was not significantly different from the fixed‐dose regimen in terms of uterotonic efficacy or associated side‐effects, despite significantly lower doses being used. Use of weight‐based oxytocin infusion (0.4 IU/kg/h) can be considered in clinical practice.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trial Registry of India (ctri.nic.in, number. CTRI/2021/01/030642).
Informing sustainable development in education: Identification and actualization of layered IS affordances
Authors: Valbø Bjørnar , Sanner Terje Aksel
Published: September 2023

This paper reports from a qualitative case study in the Gambian education sector. The study applies an affordance perspective to the ongoing strengthening of the national education management information system. Our analysis distinguishes between micro‐level technology‐use affordances (e.g., civil servants using IT for data capture and reporting), meso‐level information system (IS) affordances (e.g., data‐driven decision making at the organizational level), and macro‐level affordances, which include policy interventions to ensure the attainment of education sector goals. The contribution of the paper is twofold. First, the paper introduces a stepwise framework for IS affordance identification in terms of granularity levels (micro, meso and macro). Second, the paper outlines how use of IT at the micro‐level allows for the actualization of meso‐level IS affordances, which in turn serve as a foundation for the articulation of higher‐level interventions. Far too often, ICT for development (ICT4D) projects focus on putting technology in the hands of users with the assumption that “better data” will drive development. The significant work involved in identifying and actualizing meso‐level IS affordances is often not explicated and recognized in related plans and budgets. By highlighting meso‐level IS affordance actualizations, the paper explicates the link between public sector IT adoption and use and intended societal‐level impact, which remains a key policy and research concern.
A user's guide to degradation testing of polyethylene glycol‐based hydrogels: From in vitro to in vivo studies
Authors: Rodriguez‐Rivera Gabriel J. , Green Mykel , Shah Vani , Leyendecker Kathleen , Cosgriff‐Hernandez Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐based hydrogels have gained significant attention in the field of biomedical applications due to their versatility and antifouling properties. Acrylate‐derivatized PEG hydrogels (PEGDA) are some of the most widely studied hydrogels; however, there has been debate around the degradation mechanism and predicting resorption rates. Several factors influence the degradation rate of PEG hydrogels, including backbone and endgroup chemistry, macromer molecular weight, and polymer concentration. In addition to hydrogel parameters, it is necessary to understand the influence of biological and environmental conditions (e.g., pH and temperature) on hydrogel degradation. Rigorous methods for monitoring degradation in both in vitro and in vivo settings are also critical to hydrogel design and development. Herein, we provide guidance on tailoring PEG hydrogel chemistry to achieve target hydrolytic degradation kinetics for both resorbable and biostable applications. A detailed overview of accelerated testing methods and hydrogel degradation characterization is provided to aid researchers in experimental design and interpreting in vitro–in vivo correlations necessary for predicting hydrogel device performance.
A robust classification of acute lymphocytic leukemia‐based microscopic images with supervised Hilbert‐Huang transform
Authors: Elrefaie Reem Magdy , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Marzouk Elsaid A. , Ata Mohamed Maher
Published: September 2023

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is a malignant condition characterized by the development of blast cells in the bone marrow and their quick dissemination into the bloodstream. It primarily affects children and individuals over the age of 60. Manual blood testing, which has been around for a long time, may be slow. The likelihood of recognizing ALL in its early stages was increased by automating the diagnosis. This research developed an improved criterion for classifying ALL microscopic images into two categories: normal images and blast images. First, to save processing time, innovative image preprocessing techniques were employed to gather data for data augmentation, enhancement, and conversion. The K‐means clustering technique was also utilized to effectively segment the relevant nuclei from the background. Furthermore, the most salient features were extracted using an empirical mode decomposition (EMD) based on the Hilbert‐Huang transform. MATLAB functions such as principal component analysis, gray level co‐occurrence matrix, local binary pattern, shape features, discrete cosine transform, discrete Fourier transform, discrete wavelet transform, and independent component analysis have been used and compared with EMD. The Bayesian regularization (BR) method has been implemented in the neural networks (NNs) classifier. Along with NNs, other classifiers such as support vector machine, K‐nearest neighbors, random forest, naive Bayes, logistic regression, and decision tree have been used, evaluated, and contrasted with NNs. According to experimental findings, the ALL‐IDB2 (Image Database 2) dataset's NNs‐based‐EMD model classified objects with an accuracy of 98.7%, sensitivity of 99.3%, and specificity of 98.1%.

Research Highlights

Implement a robust method for classifying normal and blast ALL images in the state of the art using the combination of the BR algorithm and the neural networks classifier.

Perform robust data processing via data augmentation and conversion from RGB (Red, Green, and Blue) image LAB (Luminosity, A: color space, B: color space) image.

Extract the nuclei correctly from the background image using k‐means clustering.

Extract the most salient features from the segmented images using EMD in the state of the art of HHT.
Interpretation of ambiguous TP53 test results: Mosaicism, clonal hematopoiesis, and variants of uncertain significance
Authors: Berry Darcy K. , Gillis Nancy , Padron Eric , Moore Colin , Barton Laura V. , Gewandter Kathleen R. , Haskins Carolyn G. , Knepper Todd C.
Published: September 2023

The increased use of next‐generation sequencing has led to the detection of pathogenic TP53 variants in the germline setting in patients without a personal or family history consistent with Li–Fraumeni syndrome (LFS). These variants can represent low‐penetrance LFS, mosaic LFS, or clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential. Additionally, TP53 variants of uncertain significance can be detected in patients with a history suspicious for LFS. The interpretation of the significance of these variants can be challenging but is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical management. This retrospective case review provides illustrative examples of the interpretation of challenging TP53 results through multidisciplinary expertise and use of a flowchart. The authors describe eight patients with TP53 variants associated with ambiguous diagnoses and, for each case, describe how the results were interpreted and the medical care that was implemented. This report presents illustrative cases to help guide clinicians to reach definitive diagnoses for patients when confronted with TP53 variants that are inconsistent with the clinical picture and to add to the body of literature regarding interpretation and medical management of TP53 variants discovered on germline testing.
A signature based on neutrophil extracellular trap‐related genes for the assessment of prognosis, immunoinfiltration, mutation and therapeutic response in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Lijia , Wang Qi , Li Yuekao , Qi Xiaohui , Fan Xueli
Published: September 2023

Background

Liver cancer is a highly lethal and aggressive form of cancer that poses a significant threat to patient survival. Within this category, liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) represents the most common subtype of liver cancer. Despite decades of research and treatment, the overall survival rate for LIHC has not significantly improved. Improved models are necessary to differentiate high‐risk cases and predict possible treatment options for LIHC patients. Recent studies have identified a set of genes associated with neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) that may contribute to tumor growth and metastasis; however, their prognostic value in LIHC has yet to be established. This study aims to construct a prognostic signature based on a set of NET‐related genes (NRGs) for patients diagnosed with LIHC.

Methods

The transcriptomic data and clinical information concerning LIHC patients were procured from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium LIHC (ICLIHC) databases, respectively. To determine the NRG subtypes, the k‐means algorithm was employed, along with consensus clustering. The aforementioned analysis aided the construction of a prognostic signature utilizing the last absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox analysis. To validate the prognostic model, an external dataset, receiver operating characteristic curve, and principal component analysis were utilized. Moreover, the immune microenvironment and the proportion of immune cells between high‐ and low‐risk cases were scrutinized by ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms. Finally, gene set enrichment analysis was executed to investigate the potential mechanism of NRGs in the pathogenesis and prognosis of LIHC.

Results

Two molecular subtypes of LIHC were identified based on the expression patterns of differentially expressed NRGs (DE‐NRGs). The two subtypes demonstrated significant differences in survival rates and immune cell expression levels. The study results demonstrated the role of NRGs in antigen presentation, which led to the promotion of tumor immune escape. A risk model was developed and validated with strong overall survival prediction ability. The model, comprising 34 NRGs, showed a strong ability to predict prognosis.

Conclusion

We built a dependable prognostic signature based on NRGs for LIHC. We identified that NRGs could have a significant interaction in LIHC's immune microenvironment and therapeutic response. This finding offers insight into the molecular mechanisms and targeted therapy for LIHC.
The 2021 WHO Classification for Gliomas and Implications on Imaging Diagnosis: Part 3—Summary of Imaging Findings on Glioneuronal and Neuronal Tumors
Authors: Park Yae Won , Vollmuth Philipp , Foltyn‐Dumitru Martha , Sahm Felix , Choi Kyu Sung , Park Ji Eun , Ahn Sung Soo , Chang Jong Hee , Kim Se Hoon
Published: September 2023

The fifth edition of the World Health Organization classification of central nervous system tumors published in 2021 reflects the current transitional state between traditional classification system based on histopathology and the state‐of‐the‐art molecular diagnostics. This Part 3 Review focuses on the molecular diagnostics and imaging findings of glioneuronal and neuronal tumors. Histological and molecular features in glioneuronal and neuronal tumors often overlap with pediatric‐type diffuse low‐grade gliomas and circumscribed astrocytic gliomas (discussed in the Part 2 Review). Due to this overlap, in several tumor types of glioneuronal and neuronal tumors the diagnosis may be inconclusive with histopathology and genetic alterations, and imaging features may be helpful to distinguish difficult cases. Thus, it is crucial for radiologists to understand the underlying molecular diagnostics as well as imaging findings for application on clinical practice.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
From planned neck dissection to PET response to circulating tumour DNA: changes in post‐treatment assessment of HPV‐driven oropharyngeal cancer†
Authors: Post Carl M. , Ohaegbulam Kim C. , Mitin Timur
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Circulating tumour human papillomavirus DNA (ctHPVDNA) is an emerging tool to assess post‐treatment response in patients with HPV+ oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Its use is not a standard practice, however, with interval F‐18 FDG PET/CT and fiberoptic examination preferred. Post‐treatment PET/CT at 3 months has a low positive predictive value (PPV), especially in patients with HPV+ OPSCC treated with (chemo)radiation therapy (CRT). We aimed to compare 3–6 month post‐treatment PET/CT and ctHPVDNA test results to determine the most effective option for post‐treatment response assessment.

Methods

Patients with HPV+ OPSCC that underwent commercially available ctHPVDNA blood testing after curative intent treatment were identified. Demographic, clinical, treatment, surveillance and oncologic outcome information were collected for each patient. Specificity and false positive rate were calculated for post‐treatment PET/CT and ctHPVDNA.

Results

80% of patients had Stage I disease. 52% of the population was treated with definitive chemoradiation (43%) or accelerated radiation (9%), with the remaining patients treated with transoral robotic surgery (TORS) +/− risk‐adapted adjuvant therapy. In total, 25 patients underwent ctHPVDNA testing and PET/CT at 3–6 months after finishing treatment. At 3–6 months post‐treatment, specificity of ctHPVDNA and PET/CT was 96% and 56%, correlating to false positive rates of 4% and 44%, respectively.

Conclusions

ctHPVDNA is more reliable than PET/CT following treatment in patients with HPV+ OPSCC, and its incorporation in post‐treatment response assessment will decrease the rate of anxiety over persistent disease and lead to a decrease in unnecessary medical procedures, including completion of neck dissection.
A booster administration of the OKA/SK strain causes fatal disseminated varicella in an immunocompetent child
Authors: Kang Hyun Mi , Kang Kyu Ri , Kim Ye Ji , Kang Jin Han , Lee Soo‐Young
Published: September 2023

Live varicella vaccines are known to provide robust immunity against varicella zoster virus (VZV) infections. However, problems with viral attenuation have led to pathogenic VZV vaccine strains causing varicella‐like rash and herpes zoster in immunocompetent children after immunization. We report the first fatal case of VZV infection caused by OKA/SK strain contained in the vaccine administrated as a booster shot in an immunocompetent child, which has been independently developed from any currently available varicella vaccines that are OKA strain or MAV/06 strain based. The patient died due to sudden pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage as a secondary complication of VZV pneumonitis. Sequencing of the four SNPs unique to the OKA/SK strain (SNP loci 14 035T; 32 626C; 58 777G; 70 319G) enabled discrimination of the strain responsible for the disseminated infection. OKA/SK strain does not have any SNPs in ORF62 postulated to be responsible for the attenuation of varicella vaccines which have been safely and effectively used world‐wide or locally, and exclusively enriches a virulent factor in ORF31 identified in parental OKA strain, thus possibly resulting in disseminated VZV infection leading to mortality. Therefore, actions need to be taken to prevent vaccine related morbidity and mortality in children.
Synoptic fingerprints of Zonda wind from a statistical prediction model
Authors: Otero Federico , Araneo Diego C.
Published: September 2023

Zonda wind is a typical downslope windstorm over the eastern slopes of the Central Andes in Argentina, which produces extremely warm and dry conditions and has substantial socioeconomic impacts. In this study, we propose a new statistical model for Zonda prediction based on the “synoptic fingerprints” of atmospheric diagnostic variables from ERA5. The model combines principal component analysis (PCA) and logistic regression to establish a relationship between the observed occurrence and the PCA loading component of a predictor variable. This approach enables us to determine the probability of Zonda occurrence at selected stations and identify the synoptic structure features (fingerprints) associated with Zonda events. The obtained fields successfully discriminate between Zonda and non‐Zonda events, suggesting that the available information in the reanalysis data is sufficient for predicting the presence of Zonda. The synoptic fingerprints generated by the model reveal a cross‐barrier pressure gradient resulting from a negative geopotential height anomaly at low levels. The cross‐barrier flow remains unimpeded by the Andes, leading to forced vertical motions on the windward side, accompanied by cooling and precipitation. On the lee side, sinking motions, warming and drying are observed, further facilitated by favourable mid‐ and upper‐level conditions that establish the Zonda wind. The model performs comparably to previous research, with the best results achieved using low‐level variables as predictors. Key performance measures, including the area under the receiver operating curve (ROC) (AUC) of 0.9468 and a Brier score lower than 0.1, demonstrate the model's effectiveness. Using a 0.5 threshold, the accuracy, F1 score and correct alarm ratio (CAR) all exceed 88%, with a probability of detection (POD) higher than 90%. Studies on this type of downslope windstorm are scarce in South America, making this work a significant contribution to understanding synoptic‐scale atmospheric structures associated with Zonda occurrences.