bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A pruned GA-BPNN model for project portfolio benefit evaluation considering ambidexterity
Authors: Bai Libiao , Liu Shiyi , An Yuqin , Xie Qi
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Project portfolio benefit (PPB) evaluation is crucial for project portfolio management decisions. However, PPB is complex in composition and affected by synergy and ambidexterity. Ignoring these characteristics can result in inaccurate assessments, impeding the management and optimization of benefit. Considering the above complexity of PPB evaluation, this study aims to propose a refined PPB evaluation model to provide decision support for organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A back propagation neural network optimized via genetic algorithm and pruning algorithm (P-GA-BPNN) is constructed for PPB evaluation. First, the benefit evaluation criteria are established. Second, the inputs and expected outputs for model training and testing are determined. Then, based on the optimization of BPNN via genetic algorithm and pruning algorithm, a PPB evaluation model is constructed considering the impacts of ambidexterity and synergy on PPB. Finally, a numerical example was applied to validate the model.

Findings

The results indicate that the proposed model can be used for effective PPB evaluation. Moreover, it shows superiority in terms of MSE and fitting effect through extensive comparative experiments with BPNN, GA-BPNN, and SVM models. The robustness of the model is also demonstrated via data random disturbance experiment and 10-cross-validation. Therefore, the proposed model could serve as a valuable decision-making tool for PPB management.

Originality/value

This study extends prior research by integrating the impacts of synergy and ambidexterity on PPB when conducting PPB evaluation, which facilitates to manage and enhance PPB. Besides, the structural redundancy of existing assessment methods is solved through the dynamic optimization of the network structure via the pruning algorithm, enhancing the effectiveness of PPB decision-making tools.
Evaluating firm resilience through responsiveness and logistics outsourcing in the COVID-19 era
Authors: Laari Sini , Rintala Oskari , Töyli Juuso , Solakivi Tomi , Ojala Lauri
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate how firms can enhance their resilience in response to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the study focuses on assessing responsiveness as an antecedent and logistics outsourcing as a boundary condition to resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data collected from 286 manufacturing firms in Finland during 2021 are analysed to examine the relationships between supply chain responsiveness, logistics outsourcing and resilience.

Findings

Firm responsiveness is found to improve resilience, while an increasing level of logistics outsourcing weakens this relationship. Surprisingly, geographic dispersion does not significantly affect supply chain responsiveness.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of the study include the focus on manufacturing firms in Finland and the reliance on survey data. Future research could explore additional factors influencing resilience and consider a broader range of industries and geographical regions.

Practical implications

The findings offer valuable insights for managers seeking to enhance their firms’ resilience in the face of disruptions. By understanding the importance of responsiveness and the potential drawbacks of excessive logistics outsourcing, managers can make informed decisions to improve their firms’ ability to cope with unexpected challenges.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the understanding of resilience in supply chain disruptions by addressing fundamental questions related to efficiency, responsiveness, control and complexity. By examining the interplay between responsiveness, logistics outsourcing and resilience, the study enriches the understanding of how firms can effectively navigate unexpected challenges.
Cabinetisation or a Westminster solution? Understanding the employment of public servants in Australian ministers’ offices
Authors: Maley Maria
Published: August 2024

This article tracks the proportion of Australian ministerial advisory staff over time who are drawn from the public service. Using a mix of parliamentary and employment data, biographical data and interviews (1984‐2018), the paper tests if there has been a dramatic decline in the number of public servants in ministers' offices, and if the Australian ministerial office is evolving towards the cabinet ministeriel model found in Napoleonic countries, a concept known as cabinetisation. The paper shows that the proportion of Australian advisers who are public servants on leave is lower than in the past but has been consistently around 30% since 2010. The central argument advanced in the paper is that Australia's model of ministerial office has critical differences from Napoleonic ministerial cabinets and there is no evidence of cabinetisation. It argues that rather than bending towards European models, Australia's ministerial office is a response to peculiarly Westminster challenges and tensions, provoked by Washington aspirations. The paper shows that the institutional architecture of Australia's Westminster variant produces distinct and in some ways paradoxical dynamics: the separation designed to protect departments' impartiality threatens their marginalisation, leading to a push for greater presence in ministerial offices, despite the inherent frictions and risks of politicisation.

Points for practitioners

There is a significant level of exchange between departments and ministers’ offices under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act in Australia which can create frictions when staff return to departments.

The exchange is encouraged and desired by departments and seen as helping to address disconnection and lack of understanding between ministers’ offices and departments.

However, the practice is limited by the recruitment preferences of ministers, who are wary of depoliticisation, seek a mix of backgrounds and skills in their offices, and have a ready supply of political cadres to draw on.

The Thodey Review's recommendations to increase the number of public servants in ministers’ offices, and that Senior Executive Service officers work as advisers as part of their training, are unlikely to be accepted by ministers.
Does gambling expenditure have any effect on crime?
Authors: Wan Wai Yin , Wang Joanna , Weatherburn Donald J
Published: August 2024

Background and aims

Australians spend more per capita on gambling than any other country in the world. Electronic gaming machines (EGM) expenditure accounts for almost 90% of this expenditure. No study to date has conducted a rigorous longitudinal analysis of the relationship between gambling expenditure and crime. This study aimed to estimate the short‐ and long‐run relationship between gambling expenditure and crime.

Design

Longitudinal analysis using panel autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) modelling.

Setting and cases

Recorded property and violent crimes committed in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, between 28 December 2015 and 5 January 2020.

Measurements

Monthly gross EGM expenditure profit, broken down by Local Government Area (LGA). Monthly recorded rates of assault, break enter and steal (dwelling), break enter and steal (non‐dwelling), break enter and steal (total), motor vehicle theft, stealing from a motor vehicle, stealing from a retail store, stealing from the person, stealing (total) and fraud.

Findings

Each 10% increase in gambling expenditure in NSW is associated with annual: 7.4% increase in assaults, 10.5% increase in break and enter (dwelling) offences; 10.3% increase in break and enter (non‐dwelling) offences; 11% increase in motor vehicle theft offences; 8.2% increase in stealing from motor vehicle offences; and 7.4% increase in fraud offences.

Conclusion

Electronic gaming expenditure appears to be positively associated with property and violent crime in New South Wales, Australia.
Placental growth factor at 24–28 weeks for aspirin discontinuation in pregnancies at high risk for preterm preeclampsia: Post hoc analysis of StopPRE trial
Authors: Ricart Marta , Bonacina Erika , Garcia‐Manau Pablo , López Monica , Caamiña Sara , Vives Àngels , Lopez‐Quesada Eva , Maroto Anna , de Mingo Laura , Pintado Elena , Ferrer‐Costa Roser , Martín Lourdes , Rodriguez‐Zurita Alicia , Garcia Esperanza , Pallarols Mar , Pratcorona Laia , Teixidor Mireia , Orizales‐Lago Carmen , Ocaña Vanesa , del Barco Esther , Carreras Elena , Suy Anna , Mendoza Manel
Published: August 2024

Introduction

This study aims to evaluate the safety of discontinuing aspirin treatment at 24–28 weeks in women at high risk after first‐trimester combined screening for preeclampsia (PE) and normal placental growth factor (PlGF) levels at 24–28 weeks of gestation.

Material and Methods

This is a post hoc analysis of the StopPRE trial, conducted at nine Spanish maternity hospitals from September 2019 to September 2021. In the StopPRE trial, all high‐risk single pregnancies identified during first‐trimester screening for PE were treated with 150 mg of daily aspirin. Out of 1604 eligible women with a soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 to PlGF ratio (sFlt‐1/PlGF) ≤38 at 24–28 weeks, 968 were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either continue aspirin until 36 weeks (control group) or discontinue it (intervention group). In this secondary analysis, only women with PlGF ≥100 pg/mL at 24–28 weeks were included. As in the StopPRE trial, the non‐inferiority margin was set at a 1.9% difference in preterm PE incidence between the groups.

Results

Among the 13 983 screened pregnant women, 1984 (14.2%) were deemed high‐risk for preterm PE, of which 397 (20.0%) were ineligible, 636 declined participation, and 32 were excluded. Ultimately, 919 women with PlGF >100 pg/mL were randomized and included in this analysis. Preterm PE occurred in 0.9% of the intervention group (4 out of 465) and 1.5% of the control group (7 out of 454), indicating non‐inferiority of aspirin discontinuation. There were no significant differences between the groups in adverse pregnancy outcomes before 37 weeks, at <34 weeks, or ≥37 weeks. Minor antepartum hemorrhage incidence was significantly lower in the intervention group (absolute difference, −5.96; 95% CI, −10.10 to −1.82).

Conclusions

Discontinuation of aspirin treatment at 24–28 weeks in women with PlGF levels ≥100 pg/mL was non‐inferior to continuing until 36 weeks for preventing preterm PE. However, these findings should be interpreted with caution, as they originate from a subanalysis of the StopPRE trial.
Extended ischemic times during ex vivo lung perfusion is not associated with increased mortality
Authors: Gouchoe Doug A. , Satija Divyaam , Cui Ervin Y. , Aly Ahmed , Henn Matthew C. , Choi Kukbin , Nunley David , Mokadam Nahush A. , Ganapathi Asvin M. , Whitson Bryan A.
Published: August 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to identify the association of increasing ischemic times in recipients who receive lungs evaluated by ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) and their association with outcomes following lung transplantation.

Methods

Lung transplant recipients who received an allograft evaluated by EVLP were identified from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) Database from 2016–2023. Recipients were stratified into three groups based on total ischemic time (TOT): short TOT (STOT, 0 to <7 h), medium TOT (MTOT, 7> to <14 h), and long TOT (LTOT, +14 h). The groups were assessed with comparative statistics and Kaplan–Meier methods. A Cox regression was created to determine the association of ischemic time in EVLP donors and long‐term mortality.

Results

Recipients in the LTOT group had significantly longer length of stay and post‐operative extracorporeal membrane use at 72 h (p < 0.05 for both). Additionally, they had nonsignificant increases in rate of stroke (4.7%, p = 0.05) and primary graft dysfunction grade 3 (PGD3, 27.5%, p = 0.082). However, there was no significant difference in hospital mortality or mid‐term survival (p > 0.05 for both). On multivariable analysis, ischemic time was not associated with increased mortality whereas increasing recipient age, preoperative ECMO use and donation after circulatory death donors were (p < 0.05 for all).

Conclusions

If EVLP technology is available, under certain circumstances, surgeons should not be dissuaded from using an allograft with extended ischemic time.
A Finnish nationwide register‐based study shows a further 50% decline in already low child mortality
Authors: Sallinen Riikka H. , Honkila Minna , Pokka Tytti , Paalanne Niko , Halt Kimmo , Renko Marjo , Kajantie Eero , Ruuska Terhi S.
Published: August 2024

Aim

Child mortality declined significantly in Finland in 1969–2004. We investigated whether the already low mortality rate could still decline from 2005 to 2020.

Methods

This was a nationwide register‐based study. The subjects were children under 16 years of age who had resided in Finland between 2005 and 2020. The study population was identified from Finland's Population Information System of the Digital and Population Data Services Agency. Causes of death were obtained from Statistics Finland. Changes in annual overall and cause‐specific mortality rates were evaluated.

Results

3685 children (55% boys) under 16 years of age died in Finland in 2005–2020 from 325 causes. Overall annual child mortality declined by 50% (95% confidence interval 37 to 64%) during the study period, from 0.31/1000 in 2005 to 0.16/1000 in 2020. The mortality rate in children under one year of age declined from 3.1/1000 in 2005 to 1.8/1000 in 2020. The deaths from sudden infant death syndrome fell by 84%, congenital malformations by 62%, infectious diseases by 60%, external causes by 52%, and perinatal disorders by 41%.

Conclusion

Finland's low child mortality further declined over the past two decades. Contributing factors likely include achievements in paediatric research, public health, and clinical practice.
The First Baby Study: What women would like to have known about first childbirth. A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Levett Kate M. , Sutcliffe Kerry L. , Vanderlaan Jennifer , Kjerulff Kristen H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Although prenatal care providers aim to prepare women for first childbirth, little research has explored retrospectively what birthing people would like to have known before first childbirth.

Aim

To describe women's reports of what they would like to have known before first childbirth but feel they were not told.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of the First Baby Study, a large prospective cohort study conducted in Pennsylvania, USA. Telephone interviews were conducted with 3006 women 1 month after their first childbirth. Women were first asked: “Was there anything that you would have liked to have known before your delivery that you were not told?”. If “yes” they were asked a second question: “Please tell me what you would have liked to have known before your delivery”.

Analysis

A convergent mixed‐methods analysis including descriptive analytics to compare characteristics of women by answers to the first question, and qualitative content analysis of women's open‐ended answers to the second question.

Findings

A total of 441 women (14.7%) reported there was something they would like to have known before their first childbirth. Women described that communication with care providers was their main concern. They would have liked a better understanding of their options before birth, more agency in decision‐making, and more information about the topics of their body, their birth, their baby, and what to expect beyond birth.

Conclusions

Results highlight important topics for childbirth education, and the impact of gaps in shared decision‐making, patient–provider communication, and supportive care practices for first childbirth, especially where women have identified vulnerabilities.
Activation of the HMGB1‐TLR4 pathway impacts the functionality of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and disrupts macrophage polarization in immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Liang Ziyang , Zhang Guoyang , Gan Guangting , Naren Duolan , Liu Xiaoyan , Liu Hongyun , Nie Danian , Ma Liping
Published: August 2024

Recent evidence suggests that immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), a common bleeding disorder, is linked to an imbalance in macrophage polarization and impaired bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). However, the relationship between macrophage polarization imbalance and functional defects in BMSCs, as well as the involvement of associated molecules in BMSCs' defects, is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory effects of high mobility group protein 1 (HMGB1) on the physiological functions of BMSCs, specifically in relation to macrophage polarization imbalance. Patients with ITP showed dysregulation in monocyte/macrophage polarization and impaired BMSCs function. HMGB1 was found to have a negative impact on the ability of BMSCs to regulate the imbalance in macrophage polarization, especially when inflammatory factors are present. The MyD88‐dependent pathway downstream of BMSCs was found to be significantly enhanced with HMGB1 treatment. Furthermore, treatment with toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) inhibitors successfully restored the regulatory capacity of BMSCs in ameliorating macrophage polarization imbalance and effectively inhibited the activation of the MyD88‐dependent pathway. Meanwhile, infusion of si‐TLR4‐BMSCs reversed HMGB1‐induced platelet dysfunction and reduced over‐polarization to M1‐like macrophages in the ITP mouse model. Consequently, targeting the HMGB1‐TLR4 pathway could be a potential approach to restore the immunoregulatory function of BMSCs.
Trajectories of behavior and social cognition in behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia and primary psychiatric disorders: A call for better operationalization of socioemotional changes
Authors: Fieldhouse Jay L. P. , van Engelen Marie‐Paule E. , Handgraaf Dédé , de Boer Sterre C. M. , van ’t Hooft Jochum J. , Schouws Sigfried N. T. M. , van Grootheest Daniël , Kerssens Cora , Duits Flora H. , van Harten Argonde C. , Oudega Mardien L. , Vijverberg Everard G. B. , Pijnenburg Yolande A. L.
Published: August 2024

Background and purpose

Behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and primary psychiatric disorders (PPD), such as mood, psychotic, and autism spectrum disorders, share similar clinical characteristics of behavior and social cognition. Better understanding of clinical progression in bvFTD and PPD is essential for adequate disease monitoring and trial design.

Methods

In this longitudinal study (N = 89), patients with bvFTD and PPD with at least one follow‐up assessment were included from the Social Brain Project of the Alzheimer Center Amsterdam. Behavioral change and social cognitive decline were assessed via informant‐rated questionnaires (Cambridge Behavioral Inventory–Revised, Frontal Behavioral Inventory [FBI], Stereotypy Rating Inventory, Frontotemporal Dementia Rating Scale, Revised Self‐Monitoring Scale [RSMS]‐caregiver) and patient assessment (Ekman 60‐Faces Test, RSMS‐patient, Emotional Contagion Scale). Clinical trajectories (median = 1.4 years, interquartile range = 1.0–2.2) were examined using linear mixed models. In a subsample, associations with baseline serum neurofilament light (sNfL) were examined.

Results

At baseline, behavioral and social cognitive symptoms were similar between diagnosis groups, except for poorer emotion recognition in bvFTD. Over time, behavioral symptoms worsened in bvFTD, whereas most measures remained stable and the FBI improved in PPD. Regarding social cognition, emotion recognition and caregiver‐reported socioemotional sensitivity worsened in bvFTD and remained stable in PPD. Patient‐reported social cognitive measures did not change over time. Higher sNfL was associated with faster behavioral change.

Conclusions

Trajectories of behavior and social cognition differentiate bvFTD from PPD, provided that social cognition is not patient‐reported. Therefore, we stress the need to optimize longitudinal social cognitive assessment in bvFTD. sNfL may be a useful prognostic marker of behavioral progression in neuropsychiatric populations.
The Phylogenetic Structure Patterns of Angiosperm Species and Their Determinants in East Eurasia
Authors: Song Wenqi , Li Yichao , Luo Ao , Su Xiangyan , Liu Yunpeng , Luo Yuan , Jiang Ke , Sandanov Denis , Wang Wei , Wang Zhiheng
Published: August 2024

Aim

The Kunming‐Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework requires that evolutionary histories of species should be considered in conservation planning. The phylogenetic structure of species assemblages quantifies species evolutionary histories and increasingly becomes an endeavour for ecologists. Understanding the geographic patterns of phylogenetic structure of species assemblages and their drivers can provide a fundamental reference for conservation planning. Although several theoretical hypotheses based on the effects of contemporary environment, historical climate change and evolutionary niche conservatism had been widely discussed in previous studies, the relative contributions of these hypotheses on phylogenetic structure of angiosperms, especially herbaceous species, remain debated.

Location

East Eurasia.

Major Taxa Studied

Angiosperms.

Methods

We compiled distributions of 43,023 angiosperm species in east Eurasia at spatial resolution (100 × 100 km2). Using this newly compiled database and a species‐level phylogeny, we estimated the phylogenetic structure patterns for species with different growth forms. We explored the relationships of these patterns with contemporary environment and historical climate change to test predictions of the tropical niche conservatism hypothesis (TCH) and to compare the contribution of different hypotheses using generalised linear models and hierarchical partitioning.

Results

We found that phylogenetic structure of angiosperms displayed significant latitudinal gradients. Notably, phylogenetic structure patterns and their drivers differed between woody and herbaceous species. Actual evapotranspiration was the best predictor of phylogenetic structure patterns for all and herbaceous species, while the mean temperature of the coldest quarter was the best predictor for woody species. The effect of historical climate change on phylogenetic structure patterns was weak.

Main Conclusions

Our results suggest that the TCH only explains the phylogenetic structure pattern of woody species, not herbaceous species. Moreover, contemporary climate influences the phylogenetic structure of angiosperms in east Eurasian by affecting herbaceous and woody species differently.
Resistance to Extractivism‐Induced Water Insecurity. Does Gender Have a Role in It? A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Caretta Martina Angela , Côte Muriel , Ramasar Vasna , van Ryneveld Tara Nair , Zaragocin Sofia
Published: August 2024

Extractivist practices threaten water security and with it, people's health and livelihoods. Numerous communities around the world are engaged in the strenuous work of resistance against mining. Through our previous research, we matured a sense that women are a major force behind organizing for water security, particularly because they often refer to an embodied sense of urgency to act against ongoing extractivism to preserve their waters and territories. Yet, a systematic assessment of the state of knowledge at the intersection of extractivism, water, resistance and gender is still missing. Thus, the goal of this article is to provide an overview, through a systematic scoping review, of the existing anglophone scientific literature focusing on water insecurity due to extractivism and its consequent community resistance, with a particular focus on gender. We identify 30 articles with only six explicitly referring to gender. All studies have in common the understanding that water insecurity is a manmade problem, particularly due to extractivism. Resistance is a great revelator of politics, and this systematic scoping review shows that dynamics of depletion and sacrifice zones—both in environmental and human terms—cannot be understood without considering gender and intersectional relations. Yet, an explicit focus on gender as an analytical lens of water and extractivism is still lacking in the literature. Importantly, this systematic scoping review shows similarities across case studies emphasizing the need to interrogate the transnationality of these phenomena.
Re‐Examining the Predictive Validity and Establishing Risk Levels for the Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression: Youth Version
Authors: Maguire Tessa , Bowe Steven , Kasinathan John , Daffern Michael
Published: August 2024

The Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression: Youth Version (DASA:YV) is a brief instrument, most often used by nurses and was specifically designed to assess risk of imminent violence in youth settings. To date, it has been recommended that DASA:YV scores are interpreted in a linear manner, with high scores indicating a greater level of risk and therefore need more assertive and immediate intervention. This study re‐analyses an existing data set using contemporary robust data analytic procedures to examine the predictive validity of the DASA:YV, and to determine appropriate risk bands. Mixed effect logistic regression models were used to determine whether the DASA:YV predicted aggression when the observations are correlated. Two approaches were employed to identify and test novel DASA:YV risk bands, where (1) three risk bands as previously generated for the adult DASA were used as a starting point to consider recategorising the DASA:YV into three risk bands, and (2) using a decision tree analysis method known as Chi‐square automated interaction detection to produce risk bands. There was no statistically significant difference between a four and three category of risk band. AUC values were 0.85 for the four‐ and three‐category options. A three‐category approach is recommended for the DASA:YV. The new risk bands may assist nursing staff by providing more accurate categorisation of risk state. Identification of escalation in risk state may prompt early intervention, which may also prevent reliance on the use of restrictive practices when young people are at risk of acting aggressively.
Talking About Things Important to Me: Mental Health Consumers' Experiences of Consumer‐Rated Measures
Authors: Lawn S. , Jiggins D. , Dickson R. , Coombs T.
Published: August 2024

Since 2002, National Outcomes and Casemix Collection of clinician‐rated and consumer‐rated outcome measures has become part of routine care within Australian clinical mental health services, aiming to ensure that services understand, improve and are accountable for effectiveness of treatment and care provision. Consumer‐rated outcome measures, implemented well, support basic human rights of consumers to be asked, heard and included equally in their own care. However, their use has lagged due to clinician inertia, uncertainty about their value to clinical care, assumptions about consumers' capacity to complete the measures and organisational cultural issues that have hampered more holistic assessment, consumer inclusion and care collaboration. Much is known about negative, largely tokenistic use of such measures, poor uptake and dominance of clinical approaches to measurement that privilege clinical expertise; however, little is known about consumers' positive experiences of using consumer‐rated measures, Therefore, our aims were as follows: to seek the views and experiences of mental health consumers of using consumer‐rated measures in their encounters with clinicians; to understand better whether there were benefits (and if so what) of consumer‐rated measures being used in routine mental health practice; to understand how feedback on the use of consumer‐rated measures can inform training for mental health staff; and to promote their wider use within mental health services. In‐depth interviews conducted with 10 Australian mental health consumers used interview questions co‐designed with lived experience and clinical advocates. Descriptive thematic analyses produced four themes emphasising consumers' preferences for completing the measures, the importance of explaining their purpose, how the process validated their feelings and was an opportunity for self‐reflection, sense‐making, trust‐building, and transparency in the encounter and empowerment. This research offers recommendations about the value of effective implementation of consumer‐rated measures.
Dual‐mode optical thermometry based on glass‐ceramics from blast furnace slag
Authors: Xie Jing , Cao Qianwen , Zhong Yue , Su Tao , Shu Weijia , Wei Xiantao , Pan Yan , Long Hongming , Li Yong
Published: August 2024

A series of glass ceramic samples precipitated with Ca2(Mg0.5Al0.5)(Si1.5Al0.5O7): Yb3+, Er3+ nanoparticles were synthesized by the melt quenching method to effectively recycle blast furnace slag. Their structures, morphologies, and luminescent properties were comprehensively investigated using X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and photoluminescence, respectively. The impact of adding Al2O3/SiO2 to the blast furnace slag raw material on the transmittance, hardness, and luminescent properties of the glass‐ceramics was analyzed. Upon excitation with a 980 nm laser, all glass‐ceramic samples emitted strong Er3+ upconversion luminescence at 526, 549, and 650 nm. Moreover, the addition of Yb3+ ions significantly enhanced the luminescent intensity. A dual‐mode temperature sensor based on fluorescence intensity ratios was realized using a single luminescent center. All results indicate that the glass ceramic samples prepared from blast furnace slag are potentially promising for self‐referential optical temperature measurement.
Unleashing frailty from laboratory into real world: A critical step toward frailty‐guided clinical care of older adults
Authors: Kim Dae Hyun
Published: August 2024

Understanding patients' degree of frailty is crucial for tailoring clinical care for older adults based on their physiologic reserve and health needs (“frailty‐guided clinical care”). Two prerequisites for frailty‐guided clinical care are: (1) access to frailty information at the point of care and (2) evidence to inform decisions based on frailty information. Recent advancements include web‐based frailty assessment tools and their electronic health records integration for time‐efficient, standardized assessments in clinical practice. Additionally, database frailty scores from administrative claims and electronic health records data enable scalable assessments and evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of medical interventions across different frailty levels using real‐world data. Given limited evidence from clinical trials, real‐world database studies can complement trial results and help treatment decisions for individuals with frailty. This article, based on the Thomas and Catherine Yoshikawa Award lecture I gave at the American Geriatrics Society Annual Meeting in Long Beach, California, on May 5, 2023, outlines our group's contributions: (1) developing and integrating a frailty index calculator (Senior Health Calculator) into the electronic health records at an academic medical center; (2) developing a claims‐based frailty index for Medicare claims; (3) applying this index to evaluate the effect of medical interventions for patients with and without frailty; and (4) efforts to disseminate frailty assessment tools through the launch of the eFrailty website and the forthcoming addition of the claims‐based frailty index to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Chronic Conditions Data Warehouse. This article concludes with future directions for frailty‐guided clinical care.
Automated immunohistochemistry of intra‐epidermal nerve fibres in skin biopsies: A proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Burgess Jamie , Marshall Anne , Rapteas Leandros , Hamill Kevin J. , Marshall Andrew , Malik Rayaz A. , Frank Bernhard , Alam Uazman
Published: August 2024

Aims

To develop a standardised, automated protocol for detecting protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) positive intra‐epidermal nerve fibres (IENFs) in skin biopsies, transitioning from the established manual technique to an automated platform. This automated method, although currently intended for research applications, may improve the accessibility of this diagnostic test for small fibre neuropathy in clinical settings.

Methods

Skin biopsies (n = 274) from 100 participants (fibromyalgia syndrome n = 62; idiopathic small fibre neuropathy: n = 16; healthy volunteers: n = 22) were processed using an automated immunohistochemistry platform. IENF quantification was performed by blinded examiners, with reliability assessed via a two‐way mixed‐effects model to evaluate inter‐ and intra‐observer variability.

Results

The automated staining system reproduced intra‐epidermal nerve fibre density (IENFD) counts consistent with free‐floating sections (mean ± standard deviation: free‐floating: 5.6 ± 3.4 fibres/mm; automated: 5.9 ± 3.2 fibres/mm). A median difference of 0.3 with a lower bound 95% Confidence Interval (CI) at −0.00005 established non‐inferiority against a margin of −0.4 (p = .08). Specifically, the inter‐class correlation coefficient (class denotes consistency in measured observations) was 99% (95% CI: 0.9–1), indicating excellent agreement between free‐floating and automated methods. The inter‐ and intra‐class coefficient between examiners were both 99% (95% CI: 0.9–0.1) for IENFD, demonstrating high reliability using sections stained using the automated method.

Interpretation

Automated immunohistochemistry provides high‐throughput reliable and reproducible intra‐epidermal nerve fibre quantification. This method, although currently proof‐of‐concept, for research use only, may be more widely deployed in histopathology laboratories to increase the adoption of IENFD assessment for the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathies.
TWEAK increases angiogenesis to promote diabetic skin wound healing by regulating Fn14/EGFR signaling
Authors: Zhu Ying‐jie , Chen Hu‐lin , Huang Jing‐kai , Cai Xin‐jie , Zhan Bang‐le
Published: August 2024

Objective

Tumor necrosis factor‐like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), a member of tumor necrosis factor superfamily, can bind to fibroblast growth factor‐inducible 14 (Fn14) receptor and stimulate angiogenesis. The interaction between epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and endothelial growth factor (EGF) leads to EGFR signal transduction and promotes angiogenesis. The objective of this study was to explore whether TWEAK participated in the diabetic skin wound healing by regulating Fn14/EGFR signaling.

Methods

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with 35 mmol/L d‐glucose and classified into the Control Group, High Glucose (HG) Group and HG + TWEAK Group. Then, the TWEAK expression and the proliferation, migration and tubule formation of HUVECs were detected, respectively. In vivo experiment, the diabetic model was established by injecting streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg) into male BALB/c mice. On the back of successfully modeled diabetic mice, a full‐thickness skin wound of 6 mm diameter was formed. Then, the mice were randomly assigned into three groups: Blank Group, Phosphate Buffer Saline (PBS) Group, and TWEAK Group. Subsequently, expression levels of TWEAK, Fn14, EGFR and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐A were measured, and the CD31 expression in the wounded skin tissue of mice was checked by immunohistochemistry staining.

Results

The expression level of TWEAK in HUVECs of HG Group decreased significantly, as well as the viability, migration, and tubule formation of cells. After over‐expression of TWEAK, the cell viability, migration, and tubule formation abilities of HUVECs recovered remarkably. In vivo, the wound healing rate of diabetic mice was raised, the neovascularization was increased, and the CD31 expression in the wounded tissue was obviously upregulated after injection with recombinant TWEAK antibody.

Conclusion

TWEAK stimulates angiogenesis and accelerates the wound healing of diabetic skin by regulating Fn14/EGFR signaling.
Krill oil supplementation improves transepidermal water loss, hydration and elasticity of the skin in healthy adults: Results from two randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐finding pilot studies
Authors: Handeland Katina , Wakeman Mike , Burri Lena
Published: August 2024

Background

Dietary marine omega‐3 fatty acids and phospholipids have individually shown favorable effects on skin barrier function. Krill oil offers a combination of omega‐3 in phospholipid form which might enhance the efficacy in supporting skin health.

Aims

The aim was to investigate the impact of two different doses of krill oil on skin transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in healthy adults. Secondary outcomes were skin hydration, elasticity and the omega‐3 index.

Methods

Two randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, pilot studies were conducted in healthy adults with a baseline TEWL of >10 and ≤24.9 g/m2/h. In study 1, 51 participants consumed 1 g of krill oil or placebo daily. In study 2, 50 participants consumed 2 g of krill oil or placebo daily. The outcomes were assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks.

Results

The krill oil supplemented groups significantly increased their omega‐3 index versus placebo in both studies. Furthermore, the krill oil groups in both studies showed statistically significant beneficial reductions in TEWL (from 14.47 ± 3.65 to 13.83 ± 3.78 in study 1 and from 14.25 ± 3.21 to 13.02 ± 2.76 in study 2) and increases in hydration and elasticity when compared to placebo. There were significant linear relationships between changes in the omega‐3 index and changes in TEWL, hydration and elasticity in both studies.

Conclusions

Daily oral supplementation with 1 and 2 g of krill oil showed significant and dose‐dependent improvements in skin TEWL, hydration, and elasticity compared to placebo that correlated with changes in the omega‐3 index.
A faster CO2 fractional scanner system mode for skin rejuvenation. A clinical study
Authors: Piccolo Domenico , Zingoni Tiziano , Fusco Irene , Madeddu Francesca , Conforti Claudio
Published: August 2024

Background

The market requires ever‐faster techniques, in particular for pre‐rejuvenation condition.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to assess if a fractional CO2 scanner modality (called moveo) results in a faster full‐face rejuvenation treatment in comparison to the standard mode, currently existing in the scanner system.

Materials and Methods

A total of 12 female patients affected by fine lines participated in a split‐face clinical investigation and underwent to two sessions with a fractional CO2 laser system equipped with an existing and a faster dedicated scanner units. Pain was assessed using VAS. Three‐dimensional clinical photographs were captured before, immediately after, 3 days, 14 days after the first treatment and immediately after the second treatment and 1 months after the last one. The uniformity and aesthetic coverage of treatments were assessed using dermatoscopy. Global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) was used. The time taken to treat the two sides of the face and all possible side effects were monitored.

Results

Following only two treatment session with both scanner modes, the patient's skin texture improved significantly, with fine lines reduction. There is no statistically significant difference in perceived pain between patients. The GAIS score showed satisfactory results following both modalities. The time parameters indicated that with the faster scanner mode the full‐face treatment time was reduced by 30% compared to the standard one. No adverse effects were observed.

Conclusions

The moveo modality provide faster treatment and a better final dermal aesthetic outcome than the standard procedure while maintaining the same safety profile.
Helicobacter pylori infection in psoriatic patients and its relation to psoriasis severity: Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Abdel‐Hamid Soheir , Abdel‐Monem Shimaa Arafat
Published: August 2024

Background

Psoriasis is a prevalent inflammatory skin condition that can be recognized by silvery‐white scales on plaques and erythematous papules, despite the fact that psoriasis appears to have multiple causes. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has been investigated recently as a potential infectious etiological component.

Aims

The objective of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of H. pylori infection in psoriatic patients compared to that of healthy controls and determine whether the degree of psoriasis and H. pylori infection were related.

Patients and methods

The dermatology, venerology, and andrology department at South Valley University Outpatient Clinic carried out this cross‐sectional study. Psoriatic patients of both sexes and ages were included. In addition to the control group, H. Pylori antigen was measured from psoriatic and control groups by using H. pylori stool antigen‐enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (HpSA‐ELISA), a test for H. pylori stool antigen. More than 20 ng/mL of antigen proved positive, or less than 15 ng/mL proved negative.

Results

There was a significant difference between psoriatic patients and control regarding H. pylori infection (p = 0.046): (30.66%) positive in controls, (45.33%) positive in psoriatic patients. Both groups were matched for age (p = 0.908), that is, the mean age of psoriatic patients was 37.44 ± 15.79 years, and the control group was 37.15 ± 15.15 years. Twenty‐five psoriatic patients in each group: mild, moderate, and severe psoriasis according to the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) score. No significant correlation between H. pylori infection and PASI, age, or duration of illness in psoriatic patients.

Conclusions

Patients with psoriasis had greater rates of H. pylori infection but didn't affect the severity of psoriasis.
LC‐OCT as a tool to visualize in vivo location of dermal fillers
Authors: Musolff Noah , Sanabria Bianca , Caetano Victoria , Pulgarin Laura , Chaudhry Zaima Sohail , Rao Babar
Published: August 2024

Background

Dermal fillers have emerged as a popular non‐surgical solution for facial rejuvenation and enhancement. Apart from botulinum toxin injections, they are the most common non‐surgical procedure performed in the US. Line‐field optical coherence tomography (LC‐OCT; deepLive system Damae Medical, France) represents one of the most recent developments in non‐invasive skin imaging technologies.

Materials and methods

We performed LC‐OCT image acquisition on six patients that were treated with hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers in various locations on the face. The images were acquired before the application of the fillers (T0), immediately after (T1), and at a 6‐ to 8‐week (T2) follow‐up visit.

Results

At T0, we were able to appreciate a normal‐appearing epidermis, dermoepithelial junction, and dermis. At T1, the intradermal filler deposits appeared as homogeneously hyporeflective areas, clearly discernible from surrounding vessels and other structures. At T2, the deposits were distinguishable as hyporeflective areas, although they were diminished in size compared to T1. On enface view, collagen fibers had increased thickness and were more homogeneously organized and hyperreflective.

Conclusions

We established the usefulness of LC‐OCT in the non‐invasive evaluation of dermal HA fillers to visualize both short‐term and medium‐term effects. LC‐OCT may be a valuable tool in evaluating the precise location of filler placement and follow‐up of resulting in vivo changes.
Bringing graphene into the undergraduate classroom
Authors: Seredinski Andrew , Qafko Tedi , Hillyer Nathanael , Norman Alexander
Published: August 2024

We present an undergraduate instructional laboratory experiment that introduces students to the most well-known van der Waals material, graphene. Like all van der Waals materials, graphene is a crystal that can be peeled into layers, in some cases, down to atomic thicknesses. In this experiment, students first fabricate a sample consisting of few-layer graphene flakes atop of a silicon wafer substrate using the mechanical exfoliation method. The students then use a microscope setup to acquire images of the sample under white-light and LED illumination. These images are analyzed to produce optical contrast values (a measure of the reflectance of the graphene flakes) as a function of illumination wavelength. A theoretical model for optical contrast is developed based on thin-film interference and the resulting theory and experiment are compared, yielding a value for the graphene flake's thickness. This experiment is designed for advanced instructional laboratory and upper level optics courses. It may also be simplified into a qualitative introductory physics laboratory, demonstration, or outreach workshop activity.
Recyclable surgical, consumer, and industrial adhesives of poly(α-lipoic acid)
Authors: Pal Subhajit , Shin Jisoo , DeFrates Kelsey , Arslan Mustafa , Dale Katelyn , Chen Hannah , Ramirez Dominic , Messersmith Phillip B.
Published: August 2024

Polymer adhesives play an important role in many medical, consumer, and industrial products. Polymers of α-lipoic acid (αLA) have the potential to fulfill the need for versatile and environmentally friendly adhesives, but their performance is plagued by spontaneous depolymerization. We report a family of stabilized αLA polymer adhesives that can be tailored for a variety of medical or nonmedical uses and sustainably sourced and recycled in a closed-loop manner. Minor changes in monomer composition afforded a pressure-sensitive adhesive that functions well in dry and wet conditions, as well as a structural adhesive with strength equivalent to that of conventional epoxies. αLA surgical superglue successfully sealed murine amniotic sac ruptures, increasing fetal survival from 0 to 100%.
Manufacture and testing of biomass-derivable thermosets for wind blade recycling
Authors: Clarke Ryan W. , Rognerud Erik G. , Puente-Urbina Allen , Barnes David , Murdy Paul , McGraw Michael L. , Newkirk Jimmy M. , Beach Ryan , Wrubel Jacob A. , Hamernik Levi J. , Chism Katherine A. , Baer Andrea L. , Beckham Gregg T. , Murray Robynne E. , Rorrer Nicholas A.
Published: August 2024

Wind energy is helping to decarbonize the electrical grid, but wind blades are not recyclable, and current end-of-life management strategies are not sustainable. To address the material recyclability challenges in sustainable energy infrastructure, we introduce scalable biomass-derivable polyester covalent adaptable networks and corresponding fiber-reinforced composites for recyclable wind blade fabrication. Through experimental and computational studies, including vacuum-assisted resin-transfer molding of a 9-meter wind blade prototype, we demonstrate drop-in technological readiness of this material with existing manufacture techniques, superior properties relative to incumbent materials, and practical end-of-life chemical recyclability. Most notable is the counterintuitive creep suppression, outperforming industry state-of-the-art thermosets despite the dynamic cross-link topology. Overall, this report details the many facets of wind blade manufacture, encompassing chemistry, engineering, safety, mechanical analyses, weathering, and chemical recyclability, enabling a realistic path toward biomass-derivable, recyclable wind blades.
Transgender health research needed
Authors: Keuroghlian Alex S. , Radix Asa E.
Published: August 2024

Ever since the Cass Review was released in April—an evaluation by the United Kingdom’s National Health Service that has led to a ban on pubertysuppressing medication for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth—there has been criticism of the assessment and its recommendations, and concern about how it could be leveraged to more broadly affect public health care. In response, physicians, researchers, and major medical organizations worldwide have emphasized that scientific studies point to the benefits of medical interventions supporting gender affirmation. Indeed, more care innovation is needed, driven by community-led research, to improve the well-being of TGD people in ways that can benefit all of society.