bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing of a predictive risk index for persistent postsurgical pain on patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Palanne Riku , Rantasalo Mikko , Vakkuri Anne , Olkkola Klaus T. , Vahlberg Tero , Skants Noora
Published: May 2023

Background

We investigated whether a universal predictive risk index for persistent postsurgical pain (PPP) is applicable to patients who undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

In this cohort study, 392 participants of a randomized study investigating the effects of anaesthesia methods and tourniquet use on TKA were divided into low‐, moderate‐, and high‐risk groups for PPP, as suggested in the previous risk index study. Patients reported pain using the Oxford Knee Score pain subscale and Brief Pain Inventory–short form preoperatively and 3 and 12 months postoperatively. We compared the pain scores of the low‐ to moderate‐ and high‐risk groups at respective time points and investigated changes in pain scores and the prevalence of PPP at 3 and 12 months after surgery.

Results

The high‐risk group reported more pain 3 and 12 months after TKA than the low‐ to moderate‐risk group. However, of seven variables, only a single difference reached the threshold for minimal clinical importance between the groups at 12 months. Additionally, at 12 months, the low‐ to moderate‐risk group reported slightly worse improvements in three of seven pain variables than the high‐risk group. Depending on the definition, the prevalence of PPP ranged from 2% to 29% in the low‐ to moderate‐risk group and 4% to 41% in the high‐risk group 12 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

Although the investigated risk index might predict clinically important differences in PPP between the risk groups at 3 months after TKA, it seems poorly applicable for predicting PPP at 12 months after TKA.

Significance

Although many risk factors for persistent postsurgical pain after total knee arthroplasty have been identified, predicting the risk of this pain has remained a challenge. Results of the current study suggest that accumulation of previously presented modifiable risk factors might be associated with increased postsurgical pain at 3 months, but not at 12 months after total knee arthroplasty.
A review on electrode and electrolyte for lithium ion batteries under low temperature
Authors: Li Yuxuan , Zheng Guoxu , Liu Guanzuo , Yuan Zhuo , Huang Xinzhe , Li Yinan
Published: May 2023

Under low temperature (LT) conditions (−80 °C∼0 °C), lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) may experience the formation of an extensive solid electrolyte interface (SEI), which can cause a series of detrimental effects such as Li+ deposition and irregular dendritic filament growth on the electrolyte surface. These issues ultimately lead to the degradation of the LT performance of LIBs. As a result, new electrode/electrolyte materials are necessary to address these challenges and enable the proper functioning of LIBs at LT. Given that most electrochemical reactions in lithium‐ion batteries occur at the electrode/electrolyte interface, finding solutions to mitigate the negative impact caused by SEI is crucial to improve the LT performance of LIBs. In this article, we analyze and summarize the recent studies on electrode and electrolyte materials for low temperature lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). These materials include both metallic materials like tin, manganese, and cobalt, as well as non‐metallic materials such as graphite and graphene. Modified materials, such as those with nano or alloying characteristics, generally exhibit better properties than raw materials. For instance, Sn nanowire‐Si nanoparticles (SiNPs−In‐SnNWs) and tin dioxide carbon nanotubes (SnO2@CNT) have faster Li+ transport rates and higher reversible capacity at LT. However, it′s important to note that when operating under LT, the electrolyte may solidify, leading to difficulty in Li+ transmission. The compatibility between the electrolyte and electrode can affect the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and the stability of the electrode/electrolyte system. Therefore, a good electrode/electrolyte system is crucial for successful operation of LIBs at LT.
Polyoxometalate/carbon black modified glassy carbon electrode for the detection of dopamine
Authors: Liu Xiong , Zhong Cailing , Ji Jun , Yang Wei , Tian Zhengfang , Chen Yichang , Tian Qifeng
Published: May 2023

Dopamine (DA) is a crucial neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS) of human and multicellular animal brains. In this paper, we report for the first time the synthesis of carbon black (C)/phosphotungstic acid (PWA) composites by doping PWA on carbon black nanoparticles by impregnation method. The synthesized materials were characterized using high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). Glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) modified by C/PWA composites were used to detect dopamine. The electrochemical redox behavior of DA was studied with cyclic voltammetry (CV). Under optimized conditions, DA was detected by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and the calibration plot showed linearity (R2=0.9988) over the range of DA concentrations of 10 μM‐600 μM with a detection limit of 0.1 μM. The sensor‘s capability to detect DA in commercial DA injections in real time has been successfully demonstrated.
EU PEACE funding: The policy implementation deficit
Authors: Knox Colin , O'Connor Karl , Ketola Markus , Carmichael Paul
Published: May 2023

This article explores the intersection of policy implementation, conflict/peacebuilding, and the role of the EU PEACE program in Northern Ireland (NI). Conflict societies see a great investment of external funds, attempting to promote conflict resolution. Specifically, this article analyses the fourth wave of such funding in NI to examine why the EU PEACE program has not fully brought about its intended policy outcomes. Using Matland's conflict‐ambiguity model of policy implementation, we identify how EU funds can be skewed to support local political interests. Simultaneously, the EU PEACE program continues to adhere to strict implementation criteria that makes little sense given the local context. Therefore, contrary to its objectives, the implementation of EU funding can compound rather than ameliorate divisions in postconflict NI. Instead of prescribing strict implementation criteria, EU policy could focus on improving the administrative capacity and discretion of local administration in devising locally relevant implementation strategies.
Exploring the propagation of hydraulic fracture with nonuniform stress based on the block distinct element method
Authors: Jia Baoshan , Gao Hongye , Lei Yun , Zheng Yongxiang , Wang Wei
Published: May 2023

The stress field is a critical factor for fracture propagation in hydraulic fracturing. Attention should be paid to fracture propagation with the nonuniform stress field. A stress field with gradient was established to investigate the influence of the nononuniform stress on fracture propagation. Based on the three‐dimensional block distinct element model the fracture propagation law with nononuniform stress was obtained. The mechanism of stress gradient and magnitude of uneven fracture propagation was revealed. Aiming at the uneven propagation, the influence of elastic modulus and construction parameters was analyzed. The results show that the influence of the elastic modulus follows the χ2 distribution equation and the influence of construction parameters can be expressed by the product of the injection rate and fluid viscosity. This conclusion is of theoretical significance for fracturing with nonuniform in situ stress.
Supramolecular nanomedicines based on host–guest interactions of cyclodextrins
Authors: Tong Fan , Zhou Yang , Xu Yanyan , Chen Yuxiu , Yudintceva Natalia , Shevtsov Maxim , Gao Huile
Published: May 2023

In the biomedical and pharmaceutical fields, cyclodextrin (CD) is undoubtedly one of the most frequently used macrocyclic compounds as the host molecule because it has good biocompatibility and can increase the solubility, bioavailability, and stability of hydrophobic drug guests. In this review, we generalized the unique properties of CDs, CD‐related supramolecular nanocarriers, supramolecular controlled release systems, and targeting systems based on CDs, and introduced the paradigms of these nanomedicines. In addition, we also discussed the prospects and challenges of CD‐based supramolecular nanomedicines to facilitate the development and clinical translation of these nanomedicines.
The clinical relevance of excisional margins after large loop excision of the transformation zone for the persistence of cervical dysplasia
Authors: Reijntjes Bianca , Eising Manon , Kleppe Marjolein , Geuken Erwin , Woolderink Jorien M.
Published: May 2023

Objective

A new guideline on population‐screening cervical cytology was introduced to improve diagnosis and management of (pre‐)malignant cervical lesions. Subsequently, more colposcopies and more large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) were performed. There is little information about the relevance of positive margins for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) after LLETZ. This study assesses the clinical relevance of margins on the presence of CIN.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 567 women who had undergone LLETZ due to cervical dysplasia between January 2017 and December 2019 in Martini Hospital Groningen were included. The primary outcome was the persistence of cervical dysplasia (Pap ≥2) in relation to excisional margins. A χ2 test was performed and hazard ratios with 95% confident intervals (CIs) were reported.

Results

After median follow‐up of 14 months, 9% (N = 28) with affected margins and 4% (N = 9) with clear margins had persistent cervical dysplasia (P = 0.044). Positive human papillomavirus (HPV) status was an independent risk factor (hazard ratio [HR] 8.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.19–19.22). Women with affected margins and of older age were less prone to clear HPV (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Women treated with LLETZ for cervical dysplasia show favorable long‐term outcomes, with low residual rate. High‐risk HPV combined with excisional margin status and age appears to be an adequate risk stratification and individualized management might be based on these factors.
The clot thickens: How to use viscoelastic testing in critical illness
Authors: Rech Megan A. , Gilbert Brian W. , Nei Scott , Garg Ravi , Brown Caitlin S.
Published: May 2023

Coagulopathy is common in critically ill patients and may result in complications such as bleeding or thromboembolic events. Viscoelastic testing (VET), including both thromboelastography (TEG®) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM®), offers a benefit over conventional coagulation tests in that it provides a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the degree of coagulopathy, including the ability to measure fibrinolysis. This review is a “how‐to” primer for critical care pharmacists to interpret and utilize VET in practice across a spectrum of coagulopathies, including trauma and traumatic brain injury, neurologic injury and emergencies, cardiothoracic surgery, liver disease, and medication‐induced coagulopathy.
Self‐Reported Sleep Disturbances over the Menopausal Transition and Fracture Risk: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation
Authors: Cauley Jane A. , Kravitz Howard M. , Ruppert Kristine , Lian Yinjuan , Hall Martica J. , Harlow Sioban D. , Finkelstein Joel S. , Greendale Gail
Published: May 2023

Sleep disturbances are common and may impact fracture risk directly by influencing bone turnover or indirectly through shared risk factors or mediators. To investigate the association between self‐reported sleep disturbances across the menopausal transition (MT) and fractures, we prospectively studied 3101 women enrolled in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). At each of 14 study visits spaced approximately 18 months apart, a standardized validated scale ascertained trouble falling asleep, waking up several times during the night, and waking up earlier than planned. Two time‐varying exposures were modeled: presence of any of the three disturbances at least three times per week and waking up several times during the night at least three times per week. Base models adjusted for fixed (race/ethnicity, study site) and time‐varying characteristics (age, body mass index, and MT stage). Fully adjusted models also included time‐varying bone beneficial and detrimental medications, smoking, alcohol, physical activity, diabetes, depression and sleep medications, and depressive symptoms. Women who experienced a fracture were more likely to report a greater frequency of having trouble falling asleep, waking up several times, and/or waking up earlier: 35% versus 30% at baseline, p = 0.02. In the base models, women who had any of the three sleep disturbances at least three times per week had a higher risk of any fracture, odds ratio (OR) = 1.23 (95% confidence intervals, 1.02, 1.48) and nontraumatic fracture, OR = 1.36 (1.03, 1.80). These associations were largely attenuated to nonsignificance in the fully adjusted model. Sensitivity analyses limiting our sample to 2315 SWAN women enrolled in the bone mineral density (BMD) centers yielded similar results. Additional adjustment for femoral neck BMD had no effect on our results. In conclusion, self‐reported sleep disturbances were associated with an increased risk of fractures, but these associations likely reflect shared risk factors or factors in the causal pathway. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Urinary metabolomic biomarker candidates for skeletal muscle wasting in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Oliveira Marianne S. , Santo Rafaela C.E. , Silva Jordana M.S. , Alabarse Paulo V.G. , Brenol Claiton V. , Young Steve P. , Xavier Ricardo M.
Published: May 2023

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, leading to chronic synovial inflammation and local tissue destruction. Extra‐articular manifestations may also occur, such as changes in body composition. Skeletal muscle wasting is often observed in patients with RA, but methods for assessing loss of muscle mass are expensive and not widely available. Metabolomic analysis has shown great potential for identifying changes in the metabolite profile of patients with autoimmune diseases. In this setting, urine metabolomic profiling in patients with RA may be a useful tool to identify skeletal muscle wasting.

Methods

Patients aged 40–70 years with RA have been recruited according to the 2010 ACR/EULAR classification criteria. Further, the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the C‐reactive protein level (DAS28‐CRP) determined the disease activity. The muscle mass was measured by Dual X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) to generate the appendicular lean mass index (ALMI) by summing the lean mass measurements for both arms and legs and dividing them by height squared (kg/height2). Finally, urine metabolomic analysis by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) spectroscopy was performed and the metabolomics data set analysed using the BAYESIL and MetaboAnalyst software packages. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares‐discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) were applied to the 1H‐NMR data, followed by Spearman's correlation analysis. The combined receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was calculated, as well as the logistic regression analyses to establish a diagnostic model. The significance level at P < 0.05 was set for all analyses.

Results

The total set of subjects investigated included 90 patients with RA. Most patients were women (86.7%), with a mean age of 56.5 ± 7.3 years old and a median DAS28‐CRP of 3.0 (IQR 1.0–3.0). Fifteen metabolites were identified in the urine samples with high variable importance in projection (VIP scores) by MetaboAnalyst. Of these, dimethylglycine (r = 0.205; P = 0.053), oxoisovalerate (r = −0.203; P = 0.055), and isobutyric acid (r = −0.249; P = 0.018) were significantly correlated with ALMI. Based on the low muscle mass (ALMI ≤6.0 kg/m2 for women and ≤8.1 kg/m2 for men) a diagnostic model have been established with dimethylglycine (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.65), oxoisovalerate (AUC = 0.49), and isobutyric acid (AUC = 0.83) with significant sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions

Isobutyric acid, oxoisovalerate, and dimethylglycine from urine samples were associated with low skeletal muscle mass in patients with RA. These findings suggest that this group of metabolites may be further tested as biomarkers for identification of skeletal muscle wasting.
Abandoning the word Caucasian
Authors: Tschirgi Matthew L. , Liaquat Khalida , Mahey Kumar Meenakshi , Wilson Kate L.
Published: May 2023

Traditionally, the field of genetics has used patient‐reported genetic ancestry to assist in risk assessment, calculate detection rates, and understand residual risks for recessive or X‐linked genetic diseases. Patient‐reported genetic ancestry is useful for variant curation, based on practice guidelines from medical societies. Words used to describe a person's race, ethnicity, and genetic ancestry have changed over the last few centuries, especially in the last few decades. The origin and use of Caucasian to describe people of European ancestry have come into question. With recommendations from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG), among other organizations, the medical and genetics communities are moving away from using this term altogether. The purpose of this article is to review the history of the word Caucasian and to provide evidence that it should be avoided when documenting genetic ancestry in medical records, laboratory forms, and medical research.
Levels of inflammatory markers are differentially expressed in sickle cell anemia and sickle cell trait
Authors: Gomes Ingrid Cristiane Pereira , Magalhães Lucas Sousa , Bomfim Lays Gisele Santos , dos Santos Priscila Lima , Silva Roberto Jerônimo dos Santos , Cruz Maria Carollyne Passos , de Albuquerque Lindemberg Costa , Neves Victoria Haydée Deusdedith , de Oliveira Paula Gabriella Pereira Rosa , Carvalho Alessandro Freire , Silva Lucas Oliveira , Aragão Matheus Todt , Moura Tatiana Rodrigues , Cipolotti Rosana
Published: May 2023

Although sickle cell anemia (SCA) is related to inflammation, the profile of inflammatory markers in sickle cell trait (SCT) is poorly studied. This is a cross‐sectional study of inflammatory biomarkers carried out involving adults with SCA in steady state, SCT and controls. The SCA group had higher levels of lactato dehydrogenase, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, and tumor necrosis factor alpha than the others, while the SCT group had similar levels to control group. In addition, SCA group had lower IL‐8/IL‐10 and soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐1/IL‐10 ratios. These findings indicate that individuals with SCT do not have a chronic inflammatory profile and reinforce that cytokines are involved in the maintenance of the inflammatory state in SCA.
Diffusion‐Weighted MRI of the Liver in Patients With Chronic Liver Disease: A Comparative Study Between Different Fitting Approaches and Diffusion Models
Authors: Huang Jiqing , Leporq Benjamin , Hervieu Valérie , Dumortier Jérôme , Beuf Olivier , Ratiney Hélène
Published: May 2023

Background

Diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) has been considered for chronic liver disease (CLD) characterization. Grading of liver fibrosis is important for disease management.

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between DWI's parameters and CLD‐related features (particularly regarding fibrosis assessment).

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Eighty‐five patients with CLD (age: 47.9 ± 15.5, 42.4% females).

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, spin echo‐echo planar imaging (SE‐EPI) with 12 b‐values (0–800 s/mm2).

Assessment

Several models statistical models, stretched exponential model, and intravoxel incoherent motion were simulated. The corresponding parameters (Ds, σ, DDC, α, f, D, D*) were estimated on simulation and in vivo data using the nonlinear least squares (NLS), segmented NLS, and Bayesian methods. The fitting accuracy was analyzed on simulated Rician noised DWI. In vivo, the parameters were averaged from five central slices entire liver to compare correlations with histological features (inflammation, fibrosis, and steatosis). Then, the differences between mild (F0–F2) or severe (F3–F6) groups were compared respecting to statistics and classification. A total of 75.3% of patients used to build various classifiers (stratified split strategy and 10‐folders cross‐validation) and the remaining for testing.

Statistical Tests

Mean squared error, mean average percentage error, spearman correlation, Mann–Whitney U‐test, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, area under ROC curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

In simulation, the Bayesian method provided the most accurate parameters. In vivo, the highest negative significant correlation (Ds, steatosis: r = −0.46, D*, fibrosis: r = −0.24) and significant differences (Ds, σ, D*, f) were observed for Bayesian fitted parameters. Fibrosis classification was performed with an AUC of 0.92 (0.91 sensitivity and 0.70 specificity) with the aforementioned diffusion parameters based on the decision tree method.

Data Conclusion

These results indicate that Bayesian fitted parameters may provide a noninvasive evaluation of fibrosis with decision tree.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Predictive value of systemic inflammatory markers for recurrence of papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Wang Guoqiang , Ma Yahui , Liu Yixiang , Fan Yuzhu , Miao Xiang , Zhang Yiqi , Zhu Hongbo
Published: May 2023

Background

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common type of differentiated thyroid cancer. Early identification of patients at higher risk of recurrence may allow to improve relevant follow‐up strategies and plan tailored treatment. Inflammation play an important role in the prognosis of cancer. We aimed to explore the predictive value of systemic inflammatory markers in PTC recurrence.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 200 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with PTC and underwent curative resection at Lianyungang Oriental Hospital between January 2006 and December 2018. Clinicopathological characteristics, preoperative hematologic results were analyzed. The optimal cutoff values were calculated using x‐tile software. The multivariate logistic regression and univariable survival analysis were performed by SPSS.

Results

Multivariable analysis showed that lymph node metastases (odds ratio [OR] = 2.506, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.226–5.119, p = 0.012) and higher monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (MLR) (OR = 2.100, 95% CI: 1.042–4.233, p = 0.038) were independent prognostic factors for tumor recurrence. The cutoff value 0.22 of MLR significantly predicted recurrence at 53.3% sensitivity and 67.9% specificity. Patients with MLR ≥ 0.22 exhibited significantly poor long‐term prognosis (46.8%) compared to the counterpart (76.8%, p = 0.0004).

Conclusions

Preoperative MLR significantly predicted PTC recurrence after curative resection, which may provide clues for early identification of patients at higher risk of PTC recurrence.
Assessing the burden of patients with psoriasis through the concept of cumulative life course impairment: A narrative literature review
Authors: Crochard Anne , Gherardi Alexandre , Hueber Kollen Mélanie , Issa Seham , Villani Axel
Published: May 2023

Psoriasis can affect diverse facets of patients' lives over time and may lead to irreversible cumulative life course impairment (CLCI). The CLCI concept initially described in 2010 in the context of psoriasis encompasses the intricate interaction between physical, psychological, social and economic burden and is influenced by several factors such as coping mechanisms, personality and external factors. CLCI assessment is conducted to characterise and ultimately mitigate or prevent the patient's burden over the life course. This review aims to give a comprehensive overview of the development and use of the CLCI concept in psoriasis since its inception. A narrative literature review was conducted from 2010 to 2022 and included 19 publications. As original studies on CLCI are scarce, this review primarily relied on case studies and those without longitudinal assessment. The core components of CLCI burden identified in patients' narratives include physical impairment, psychological impairment, stigma, socioeconomic burden and modulating factors. Modulating factors are crucial to mitigate the burden but are not equally explored. The burden associated with psoriasis stands across all dimensions covered by CLCI, thus confirming its suitability in clinical management and future studies. A better understanding of CLCI can support physicians and researchers in improving patients' lives and raising awareness on the necessity to develop early, efficient and patient‐centric interventions. The practical and systematic adoption of CLCI yet relies on the development and psychometric validation of a questionnaire that measures it.
Recent Trends in Macromolecule‐Based Approaches for Hair Loss Treatment
Authors: Kang Moon Sung , Park Tae Eon , Jo Hyo Jung , Kang Min Seok , Lee Su Bin , Hong Suck Won , Kim Ki Su , Han Dong‐Wook
Published: May 2023

Macromolecules are large, complex molecules composed of smaller subunits known as monomers. The four primary categories of macromolecules found in living organisms are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids; they also encompass a broad range of natural and synthetic polymers. Recent studies have shown that biologically active macromolecules can help regenerate hair, providing a potential solution for current hair regeneration therapies. This review examines the latest developments in the use of macromolecules for the treatment of hair loss. The fundamental principles of hair follicle (HF) morphogenesis, hair shaft (HS) development, hair cycle regulation, and alopecia have been introduced. Microneedle (MN) and nanoparticle (NP) delivery systems are innovative treatments for hair loss. Additionally, the application of macromolecule‐based tissue‐engineered scaffolds for the in vitro and in vivo neogenesis of HFs is discussed. Furthermore, a new research direction is explored wherein artificial skin platforms are adopted as a promising screening method for hair loss treatment drugs. Through these multifaceted approaches, promising aspects of macromolecules for future hair loss treatments are identified.
Extreme points in Orlicz spaces equipped with s‐norms and closedness
Authors: Başar Esra , Öztop Serap , Uysal Badik Hüseyin , Yaşar Şeyma
Published: May 2023

Let Φ be an Orlicz function and be the corresponding Orlicz space on a non‐atomic, σ‐finite, complete measure space . We describe the extreme points of unit ball of Orlicz spaces equipped with the s‐norm. We also investigate the closedness of the set of extreme points of unit ball. Our study generalizes and unifies the results that have been obtained for the Orlicz norm, the Luxemburg norm and the p‐Amemiya norm separately. We further classify the outer functions that generate s‐norms with respect to a constant.
Isoliquiritigenin inhibits circ0030018 to suppress glioma tumorigenesis via the miR‐1236/HER2 signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Aiqun , Jiang Baohong , Song Cailu , Zhong Qizhi , Mo Yufan , Yang Ruiqin , Chen Ciyu , Peng Cheng , Peng Fu , Tang Hailin
Published: May 2023

In the central nervous system diseases, glioma is one of the most common malignancies around the world. Despite the recent improvements in therapies for glioma, the prognosis of some high‐risk glioma remains poor. In glioma, isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is reported to have antioxidative and antitumor activities. However, the potential mechanisms between ISL and circle RNAs (circRNAs) in the glioma tumorigenesis process have not yet been reported. Here, we treated glioma cells with ISL, and circRNA expression levels were detected. Circ0030018 was found significantly downregulated by ISL. Therefore, we explored circ0030018 expression profiles and functions in glioma, finding that circ0030018 was evidently overexpressed in glioma cell lines. Colony formation, CCK‐8, and transwell assay made clear that circ0030018 silencing dramatically cut down glioma growth and invasion. Moreover, ROS level was detected to find that circ0030018 silence remarkably enhanced cell oxidative stress in glioma. Mechanism studies were conducted to investigate the underlying basis of circ0030018 function in glioma, unveiling that circ0030018 realized its functions partially through the miR‐1236/HER2 signaling in glioma. In conclusion, our study investigated the roles and mechanisms of the ISL on the circ0030018/miR‐1236/HER2 pathway in glioma tumorigenesis and progression. Circ0030018 could act as the prospective biologic signature or therapeutic target for glioma.
Pay or nudge employees into change? A theoretical and experimental investigation of the effect of nudging for organizational change
Authors: Müller Marvin M. , Böhm Kim Leonardo , Renz Erich
Published: May 2023

Organizational change often fails due to employees' resistance to change resulting in unforeseen expenses, delays, or other disruptions in organizations. In our experiment, we compare behavioral interventions—a pro‐change default rule and a pro‐change recommendation—with a costly pay raise to foster supportive behavior. In regard to the pure nudge used (default), we support its effectiveness in enhancing change‐related success. In line with our model and based on the assumption of low decision confidence in change settings, we find that a preference nudge (recommendation) lacks a corresponding effect. In addition, we find that a pay raise has a positive effect that is likely to be triggered by positive reciprocity. If this pay raise fails to materialize, we report supporting evidence for negative reciprocity. We compare the effect sizes for these nudges and the pay raise and provide insights for the relative cost‐effectiveness of such nudges compared to a pay raise for organizational change. We conclude with managerial implications.
An iterative method for the thermally coupled incompressible magnetohydrodynamics equations at high parameter
Authors: Keram Aytura , Huang Pengzhan
Published: May 2023

We design an iterative method based on linearization approach for the thermally coupled stationary incompressible magnetohydrodynamics equations at high physical parameters. The iterative method includes solving the considered equations by the linearization approach and applying the error correction strategy to reduce the iterative error arising from the linearization approach for solving the nonlinear equations. The iterative method not only can improve computational capability for solving the considered equations at high physical parameters but also can save computational time and iterative step. Moreover, we prove the stability of the iterative method and derive the iterative error estimates. Finally, some numerical tests are implemented to illustrate the efficiency of the presented method.
State‐dependent switching stabilization of third‐order switched linear systems consisting of two subsystems with fully positive real part characteristic roots
Authors: Yuan Xiaolan , Zhou Yusheng
Published: May 2023

In the present work, we investigate the stability problem for a third‐order switched linear system in which the eigenvalues of each subsystem are all positive real parts. Firstly, we introduce a degenerated linear mechanical model with two state variables, in which one of the mechanical equations degenerates to a nonholonomic constraint, thereby such a mode being treated as a mechanical system with 1.5‐degrees of freedom (DOFs). Secondly, we establish the corresponding relationship between the mechanical system with 1.5‐DOFs and a standard third‐order linear system so as to define an energy function with actual physical meaning. Thirdly, an invertible transformation is introduced to convert a general third‐order linear system to a standard one so as to calculate energy function easily. On this basis, we reasonably introduce an intermediate subsystem for a general third‐order switched linear system with two unstable subsystems, such that each subsystem and the intermediate subsystem can be converted to standard third‐order linear systems simultaneously via an identical invertible transformation. Accordingly, we construct an energy ratio function with the help of the energy functions of the intermediate subsystem and two subsystems. Fourthly, based on the obtained energy ratio function, a proper state‐dependent switching law is designed to guarantee asymptotic stability of switched systems. That is, the energy loss from switching is large enough to offset the energy increased from unstable subsystems operation in a switching loop. Finally, simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed state‐dependent switching approach.
Impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on delivery of pediatric radiotherapy: A critical review
Authors: Ali Naba , Ghalibafian Mithra , Sykes‐Martin Katherine , Parkes Jeannette , Qureshi Bilal , Esiashvili Natia
Published: May 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic has prevented the timely diagnosis and treatment of many diseases, including pediatric cancer. Its impact on pediatric oncologic treatments warrants investigation. As radiotherapy is an integral component of cancer care, we reviewed the published data regarding the impact of COVID‐19 on the delivery of pediatric radiotherapy to inform actions for future global events. We found that disruptions in radiotherapy were reported amongst interruptions in other therapies. Disruptions were more common in low‐income countries (78%) and low middle‐income countries (68%) compared with upper middle‐income countries (46%) and high‐income countries (10%). Several papers included recommendations for mitigation strategies. Altered treatment regimens were common, including increasing the use of active surveillance and systemic therapy to delay local therapies, and accelerated/hypofractionated dose delivery. Our findings suggest that COVID‐19 has impacted radiotherapy delivery in the pediatric population globally. Countries with limited resources may be more affected. Various mitigation strategies have been developed. The efficacy of mitigation measures warrants further investigation.
Microwave heating of graphene nanoplatelet polymer composites: Experimental and finite element study
Authors: Dua Mahima , Zhang Qi , Mertiny Pierre
Published: May 2023

Compared with contemporary electrofusion techniques that use embedded wires for Joule heating, microwave heating may facilitate the joining of thermoplastic polymer components, promising shortened fusion periods, superior heating uniformity, and reduced energy consumption. This study investigates the fabrication of multifunctional polylactide acid (PLA) composites with strong microwave absorption using graphene nanoplatelets (GNP). GNP/PLA nanocomposites were fabricated using a two‐step scalable manufacturing method, that is, solution blending and hot compression molding. The GNP content of the composites ranged from 0% to 8% by weight. The samples were characterized for dielectric permittivity, heat capacity, and electrical and thermal conductivity. Thermal imaging was used to investigate the efficacy of microwave heating in GNP/PLA nanocomposites as a function of microwave power and filler weight fractions. The microwave heating process in GNP composites was studied using multi‐physics finite element software. The experimental results were compared to numerical model predictions for maximum temperature and microwave energy absorbed. The produced nanocomposites were discovered to have strong microwave absorption characteristics and hence rapid heating, making this type of composite a prospective choice for gasket materials that facilitate fusion bonding for thermoplastic‐based components via localized heating.
Big versus small: The impact of aggregate size in disease
Authors: Hnath Brianna , Chen Jiaxing , Reynolds Joshua , Choi Esther , Wang Jian , Zhang Dongyan , Sha Congzhou M. , Dokholyan Nikolay V.
Published: May 2023

Protein aggregation results in an array of different size soluble oligomers and larger insoluble fibrils. Insoluble fibrils were originally thought to cause neuronal cell deaths in neurodegenerative diseases due to their prevalence in tissue samples and disease models. Despite recent studies demonstrating the toxicity associated with soluble oligomers, many therapeutic strategies still focus on fibrils or consider all types of aggregates as one group. Oligomers and fibrils require different modeling and therapeutic strategies, targeting the toxic species is crucial for successful study and therapeutic development. Here, we review the role of different‐size aggregates in disease, and how factors contributing to aggregation (mutations, metals, post‐translational modifications, and lipid interactions) may promote oligomers opposed to fibrils. We review two different computational modeling strategies (molecular dynamics and kinetic modeling) and how they are used to model both oligomers and fibrils. Finally, we outline the current therapeutic strategies targeting aggregating proteins and their strengths and weaknesses for targeting oligomers versus fibrils. Altogether, we aim to highlight the importance of distinguishing the difference between oligomers and fibrils and determining which species is toxic when modeling and creating therapeutics for protein aggregation in disease.
HspB8 interacts with BAG3 in a “native‐like” conformation forming a complex that displays chaperone‐like activity
Authors: Sciandrone Barbara , Ami Diletta , D'Urzo Annalisa , Angeli Elena , Relini Annalisa , Vanoni Marco , Natalello Antonino , Regonesi Maria Elena
Published: May 2023

The HspB8‐BAG3 complex plays an important role in the protein quality control acting alone or within multi‐components complexes. To clarify the mechanism underlying its activity, in this work we used biochemical and biophysical approaches to study the tendency of both proteins to auto‐assemble and to form the complex. Solubility and Thioflavin T assays, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy analyses clearly showed the tendency of HspB8 to self‐assemble at high concentration and to form oligomers in a “native‐like” conformation; otherwise, BAG3 aggregates poorly. Noteworthy, also HspB8 and BAG3 associate in a “native‐like” conformation, forming a stable complex. Furthermore, the high difference between dissociation constant values of HspB8‐HspB8 interaction with respect to the binding to BAG3 obtained by surface plasmon resonance confirms that HspB8 is an obligated partner of BAG3 in vivo. Lastly, both proteins alone or in the complex are able to bind and affect the aggregation of the Josephin domain, the structured domain that triggers the ataxin‐3 fibrillation. In particular, the complex displayed higher activity than HspB8 alone. All this considered, we can assert that the two proteins form a stable assembly with chaperone‐like activity that could contribute to the physiological role of the complex in vivo.
Coconut oil derived five‐component synthetic oviposition deterrent for oriental fruit fly,Bactrocera dorsalis
Authors: Roh Gwang Hyun , Kendra Paul E. , Zhu Junwei J. , Roda Amy , Loeb Gregory M. , Tay Jia‐Wei , Cha Dong H.
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Bactrocera dorsalis, oriental fruit fly (OFF), is one of the most destructive agricultural pests. Although bait sprays can effectively control OFF,resistance development has been a concern. We evaluated the oviposition deterrent activity of coconut free fatty acids (CFFA), a mixture of eight coconut oil‐derived fatty acids known to repel hematophagous insects and deter their feeding and oviposition, against OFF females.

RESULTS

In laboratory 72‐h two‐choice assays using guava‐juice infused‐agar as an oviposition substrate, CFFA deterred OFF oviposition in a dose‐dependent manner with the greatest reduction of 87% at 20 mg dose compared to the control. When the eight CFFA components were tested individually, four compounds (caprylic, capric, oleic, and linoleic acids) significantly reduced OFF oviposition (‘negative‐compounds’), two (lauric and myristic acids) had no effect (‘neutral‐compounds’), and two (palmitic and stearic acids) stimulated OFF oviposition (‘positive‐compounds’). In two‐choice tests, the ‘negative‐compounds’ blend failed to elicit the same level of oviposition reduction as CFFA at equivalent concentrations found in CFFA. Adding the two ‘neutral‐compounds’ recovered the oviposition deterrence similar to CFFA. Subsequent subtraction tests showed that four ‘negative‐compounds’ plus lauric acid was as effective as CFFA in reducing OFF oviposition in guava‐juice agar. This five‐component key‐deterrent blend also reduced OFF oviposition by 95 and 72% on papaya and tomato fruit, respectively.

CONCLUSION

CFFA acts as an oviposition deterrent for OFF. Given that CFFA compounds are generally regarded as safe for humans and the environment, CFFA and its bioactive components have potential use in behavioral control strategies against OFF. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Hybrid dynamic event‐triggered fault control of positive Markovian jump systems
Authors: Zhang Junfeng , Zhang Suhuan , Zheng Gang
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a new hybrid dynamic event‐triggered control framework on positive Markovian jump systems in continuous‐ and discrete‐time contexts subject to actuator fault. First, a new hybrid dynamic event‐triggering mechanism consists of two types of conditions: One is a dynamic event‐triggering condition associated to dynamic variable and the other one is a static event‐triggering condition. Under the new triggering mechanism, an interval approach is introduced to assist the control design, for which the lower and upper bounds of the original system are obtained. A nonfragile controller is proposed for stochastic stability of the underlying continuous‐time system with actuator fault by virtue of stochastic copositive Lyapunov functions. Under the designed controller, the positivity and stability of the system are achieved by guaranteeing the positivity and stability of the lower and upper bound systems, respectively. Moreover, a hybrid dynamic event‐triggered mechanism is established for discrete‐time systems. A nonfragile hybrid dynamic event‐triggered control is explored for discrete‐time positive Markovian jump systems. All the conditions can be solved by linear programming. Finally, two examples are given to verify the validity of the proposed design.
Use of Airborne Laser Scanning to assess effects of understorey vegetation structure on nest‐site selection and breeding performance in an Australian passerine bird
Authors: Turner Richard S. , Lasne Ophélie J. D. , Youngentob Kara N. , Shokirov Shukhrat , Osmond Helen L. , Kruuk Loeske E. B.
Published: May 2023

In wild bird populations, the structure of vegetation around nest‐sites can influence the risk of predation of dependent offspring, generating selection for nest‐sites with vegetation characteristics associated with lower predation rates. However, vegetation structure can be difficult to quantify objectively in the field, which might explain why there remains a general lack of understanding of which characteristics are most important in determining predation rates. Airborne laser scanning (ALS) offers a powerful means of measuring vegetation structure at unprecedented resolution. Here, we combined ALS with 11 years of breeding data from a wild population of superb fairy‐wrensMalurus cyaneusin southeastern Australia, a species which nests relatively close to the ground and has high rates of nest and fledgling predation. We derived structural measurements of understorey (0–8 m) vegetation from a contiguous grid of 30 × 30 m resolution cells across ourc.65 hectares study area. We found that cells with nests (nest‐cells) differed in their understorey vegetation structure characteristics compared to unused cells, primarily in having denser vegetation in the lowest layer of the understorey (0–2 m; the ‘groundstorey’ layer). The average height of understorey vegetation was also lower in cells with nests than in those without nests. However, relationships between understorey vegetation structure characteristics and breeding performance were mixed. Nest success rates decreased with higher volumes of groundstorey vegetation, as did fledgling survival rates, though only in nest‐cells with lower height vegetation. Our results indicate that ALS can identify vegetation characteristics relevant for superb fairy‐wren nest‐site selection, but that nesting preferences are not beneficial under current predation pressures. The study illustrates the potential for using ALS to investigate how ecological conditions affect behaviour and life‐histories in wild animal populations.
Control of the Molten Steel Level in the Top Side‐Pouring Twin‐Roll Casting Process Based on Fuzzy Rules Optimized by Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Zhou You , Mao Yi , Xuan Dongpo , Jiang Tianliang , Fan Wenhao , Zhu Biji , Zhou Cheng
Published: May 2023

Twin‐roll strip casting is a near‐net‐shape casting technology that can produce thin steel strips directly from molten steel. Stably controlling the molten steel level is regarded as an important issue to ensure strip quality and casting process stability. As the control of the molten steel level is a time‐varying, nonlinear, and multidisturbance complex system, it is difficult to establish an accurate process model for designing a model‐based controller. Top side‐pouring twin‐roll casting is a new kind of twin‐roll strip casting technology. This study introduces the control system of the top side‐pouring twin‐roll casting process. A fuzzy logic controller (FLC) with its fuzzy rules optimized by particle swarm optimization (PSO) is developed to regulate the molten steel level. Simulation results show that the performance of the FLC can be improved while its fuzzy rules are optimized by PSO. The objective function of PSO has a great influence on the optimization of the fuzzy rules. The top side‐pouring twin‐roll casting experiments are carried out using the FLC with its fuzzy rules optimized by PSO; the results show that strip quality and casting process stability are guaranteed.
Professional development as Praxis: EFL teachers' challenges in learning to implement dynamic assessment of writing
Authors: Faryabi Fatemeh , Rahimi Mohammad , Davin Kristin J.
Published: May 2023

The present study adopted a praxis orientation to second language (L2) research and pedagogy to explore the professional development needs of three English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers after their first attempt at implementing dynamic assessment (DA) of essay writing. To date, few studies have examined how teachers learn to implement DA, especially in a context like Iran where the educational system has historically centered upon high‐stakes assessments of learning (Rezagah, 2022). This study sought to understand how existing models of DA professional development could be modified to prepare teachers to implement DA of essay writing through written mediation. Findings revealed three challenges that arose for teachers during their initial attempts at DA implementation: 1) choosing an appropriate target for mediation, 2) delivering graduated mediation, and 3) dedicating sufficient time to the process of DA. We outline each of these three challenges in the findings of this article and their correspondent suggestions for revised future professional development of DA of writing.