bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qualification of the differential leukocyte count and immunophenotyping in cryopreserved ex vivo whole blood assay
Authors: Imbratta Claire , Gela Anele , Bilek Nicole , Mabwe Simbarashe , Cloete Yolundi , Mortensen Rasmus , Borges Álvaro H. , Maenetje Pholo , Mlotshwa Mandla , Churchyard Gavin , Sudi Lwitiho , Sabi Issa , Meewes Peter , Wallis Carole L. , Hatherill Mark , Scriba Thomas J. , Nemes Elisa
Published: September 2023

We developed a flow cytometry‐based assay, termed Differential Leukocyte Counting and Immunophenotyping in Cryopreserved Ex vivo whole blood (DLC‐ICE), that allows quantification of absolute counts and frequencies of leukocyte subsets and measures expression of activation, phenotypic and functional markers. We evaluated the performance of the DLC‐ICE assay by determining inter‐operator variability for processing fresh whole blood (WB) from healthy donors collected at multiple clinical sites. In addition, we assessed inter‐operator variability for staining of fixed cells and robustness across different anticoagulants. Accuracy was evaluated by comparing DLC‐ICE measurements to real‐time cell enumeration using an accredited hematology analyzer. Finally, we developed and tested the performance of a 27‐colour immunophenotyping panel on cryopreserved fixed WB and compared results to matched fresh WB. Overall, we observed <20% variability in absolute counts and frequencies of granulocytes, monocytes and lymphocytes (T, B and NK cells) when fresh WB was collected in different anti‐coagulant tubes, processed or stained by independent operators. Absolute cell counts measured across operators and anti‐coagulants using the DLC‐ICE method exhibited excellent correlation with the reference method, complete blood count (CBC) with differential, measured using a hematology analyzer (r2 > 0.9 for majority of measurements). A comparison of leukocyte immunophenotyping on fresh WB versus DLC‐ICE processed blood yielded equivalent and linear results over a wide dynamic range (r2 = 0.94 over 10–104 cells/μL). These results demonstrate low variability across trained operators, high robustness, linearity and accuracy, supporting utility of the DLC‐ICE assay for large cohort studies involving multiple clinical research sites.
Lesser Prairie‐chicken incubation behavior and nest success most influenced by nest vegetation structure
Authors: Gehrt Jacquelyn M. , Sullins Daniel S. , Verheijen Bram H. F. , Haukos David A.
Published: September 2023

Incubation breaks are necessary for any nesting bird but can increase the mortality risk of the nest or attending parent. How intrinsic and extrinsic variables affect nest attentiveness—the proportion of time a female is on nest during incubation— and subsequent survival of the nest remains unclear for uniparental species. We related female nest attentiveness to nest survival and tested the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic variables on nest attentiveness by female Lesser Prairie‐chickens (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) using GPS locations of 87 females at 109 nest sites in 3 study areas in Kansas during 2013–2015. Daily nest survival increased by 39% when nest attentiveness increased from 21% to 98%. Female Lesser Prairie‐chickens were 18% less attentive as body mass increased from 600 to 920 g. Daily precipitation and temperature, controlled for days into the incubation period, had interactive effects on nest attentiveness with nest attentiveness lowest on cool, wet days and increasing as temperature increased, regardless of precipitation (41% attentiveness at 16°C and 79 mm of precipitation to 90% attentiveness at 37°C and 41 mm of precipitation). Nest attentiveness increased by 11% as the quantity of grass at the nest site increased from 5% to 78% when visual obstruction was at 1 and 2 decimeters (dm) and increased 9% as the quantity of grass at the nest site increased from 5% to 83% when visual obstruction was at its maximum (3 dm). Our findings reveal the critical importance of nest attentiveness and incubation behavior, not only in relation to demography, but within the context of changing environmental conditions. As warmer temperatures and extreme precipitation events become more common and change the growth rates of vegetation, species like the Lesser Prairie‐chicken that are ground‐nesting, rely on vegetation cover, and exhibit uniparental care could experience negative demographic consequences.
Prognostic impact of nutrition measures in patients with heart failure varies with coexisting physical frailty
Authors: Iida Yuki , Kamiya Kuniyasu , Adachi Takuji , Iwatsu Kotaro , Kamisaka Kenta , Iritani Naoki , Imoto Shota , Yamada Sumio ,   the FLAGSHIP collaborators
Published: September 2023

Aims

Malnutrition is prevalent among patients with heart failure (HF); however, the effects of coexisting malnutrition and frailty on prognosis are unknown. This study examines the impact of malnutrition and frailty on the prognosis of patients with HF.

Methods and results

We examined 1617 patients with HF aged 65 years or older (age: 78.6 ± 7.4; 44% female) from a Japanese multicentre prospective cohort study. The nutritional status was evaluated using the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT), and Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form on discharge. Frailty was assessed using the criteria determined in a previous study on patients with HF. The prognostic impact of each nutrition measure on the risk of composite all‐cause mortality and cardiac readmissions within 2 years of hospital discharge was assessed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards model analysis for non‐frail and frail groups. Over 2324.2 person‐years of follow‐up, 88 patients died and 448 patients experienced readmission due to HF. In the non‐frail group, poor nutritional status assessed using the GNRI and CONUT was associated with an increased hazard ratio (HR) of composite outcomes in the crude model; however, adjustment for potential confounders diminished the association. In the frail group, all three nutritional indicators were associated with the cumulative incidence of the study outcome (log‐rank test, P < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, only the CONUT score was associated with an increased HR even after adjustment for confounders.

Conclusions

The CONUT score predicted a poor prognosis in HF patients with coexisting physical frailty, highlighting the potential clinical benefit of nutritional assessment based on biochemical data for further risk stratification.
Outdoor Electrical Performance of Photovoltaic Mini‐Modules with Enhanced Broadband Omnidirectional Antireflective Nanostructured Glass
Authors: Pinto Cristina Leyre , Bengoechea Jaione , Cornago Iñaki , Zugasti Eugenia
Published: September 2023

Front glass structured with random subwavelength structures provides photovoltaic (PV) modules with a spectrally broadband omnidirectional antireflective property, enhancing also the incident angle modifier factor and boosting energy production in the field. However, long‐term outdoor monitoring allowing a monthly quantification of the electrical improvement of PV devices laminated with nanostructured glasses has been missing so far. Herein, two mini‐modules, one laminated with flat glass and the other laminated with nanostructured glass, are installed in a single‐axis solar tracker, and the solar irradiance and the short‐circuit current (Isc) are monitored for over 4 months, from September to December. This monitoring provides the quantification of the impact of a broad range of sunlight's angle of incidence (AOI) on the electrical enhancement of the device. The relativeIscimprovement between two samples averaged for each month is calculated, ranging from 3.0% in September up to 4.0% in December. Besides, the influence of the solar AOI on theIscimprovement is investigated for sunny days, analyzing separately theIscperformance in the morning/afternoon hours, which corresponds to a normal incidence, and at noon, when the AOI is higher, obtaining more than 5.0% with AOI higher than 60°.
Influence of corrosion on failure modes and lifetime seismic vulnerability assessment of low‐ductility RC frames
Authors: Shekhar Shivang , Freddi Fabio , Ghosh Jayadipta , Lad Devang
Published: September 2023

Corrosion of reinforced concrete (RC) structures constitutes a critical form of environmental deterioration and may significantly increase the vulnerability of old non‐seismically designed buildings during earthquake events. This study proposes a probabilistic framework to evaluate the influence of corrosion deterioration on the lifetime seismic fragility of low‐ductility RC frame buildings. In contrast to limited past literature on this topic, the proposed framework offers novel contributions. This is one of the first study to consider potential alteration in failure modes of building components (from flexure to flexure‐shear) due to the time‐dependent aging process. Numerical models validated with past experimental test results are utilized to capture these failure modes, which are particularly relevant for low ductility RC frames designed prior to the introduction of modern seismic codes. Secondly, given the gamut of uncertainties associated with the corrosion process, this study develops condition‐dependent seismic fragility functions independent from an assumed exposure scenario, as often done in literature. These functions can be easily adopted by design engineers and stakeholders for prompt fragility assessment, and subsequent decision‐making without the need for computationally expensive finite element (FE) model runs. The proposed framework is demonstrated on a benchmark three‐story RC frame that considers time‐varying seismic demand models and damage state thresholds while accounting for the uncertain corrosion deterioration process and ground motion record‐to‐record variability.
The role of ammonia as an alternative fuel by mixing it into natural gas and satisfying the gas quality requirements
Authors: Ingo Christina , Tuuf Jessica , Björklund‐Sänkiaho Margareta
Published: September 2023

Ammonia as a carbon‐free e‐fuel has a good potential as a future energy vector to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By mixing it into natural gas (NG), the carbon dioxide emissions are decreased when the mixture is burnt. To study the change in the gas properties of different NG compositions with and without added hydrogen, 0–20 mol% ammonia was mixed and various parameters were calculated. The results show that a higher content of ammonia decreases the compression factor, lower heating value, and Wobbe index (WI). Depending on the gas composition the relative density is either increasing, for NGs containing a high level of methane and/or hydrogen, or decreasing, for gases with larger quantities of higher hydrocarbons and/or inert gases. NGs with added hydrogen are more impacted by addition of ammonia, where the relative density can be improved by mixing the gas with ammonia to satisfy the gas quality requirements. However, taking the WI limits into account, more ammonia can be added into a NG without any hydrogen compared to one with hydrogen. The addition of ammonia into NG is possible considering the gas quality parameters, even in the case when the gas contains some hydrogen.
Network pharmacology and experiment indicated that medicinal food homologous components play important roles in insomnia
Authors: Xu Xiao , Liu Yang , Fu Xueqi , Li Guodong , Han Weiwei , Li Wannan
Published: September 2023

Insomnia refers to a subjective experience where insufficient sleep duration and quality affect daytime social functioning. This study aims to screen bioactive components with medicinal food homologous (MFH), such as quercetin, beta‐sitosterol, kaempferol, stigmasterol, and capsaicin, which can treat insomnia and demonstrate that quercetin acts as a direct inhibitor of insomnia‐related glucosylceramidase and as an insulin receptor tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor in the upstream insulin signaling pathway, affecting insomnia targets in the downstream pathway for the treatment of insomnia, using network pharmacology and cell experiment approaches. The results showed that 703 components in 44 MFH were enriched in 139 metabolic pathways and acted on 210 potential targets of insomnia. The protein–protein interaction network is analyzed by cytoNCA, according to the topological analysis results, quercetin, beta‐sitosterol, kaempferol, stigmasterol, and capsaicin of betweenness ranked in the top 10. Quercetin and glucosylceramidase were shown to directly inhibit insomnia proteins through reverse molecular docking. Quercetin was used to culture and stimulate HepG2 cells to detect tyrosine phosphorylation of key cellular proteins in the insulin signaling pathway, concluding that quercetin inhibits the activity of tyrosine phosphatase in a dose‐dependent manner, activating the insulin signaling pathway, triggering a cascade reaction, and affecting the expression of insomnia targets in the downstream pathway. The molecular docking of tyrosine phosphatase and quercetin revealed that quercetin interacted with it near the catalytic site, thereby inhibiting its interaction with the substrate. Overall, this study facilitates the development of medicinal food homologous, which exerts good pharmacological effects in the treatment of insomnia.
Comparisons of pulsed ultrasound‐assisted and hot‐acid extraction methods for pectin extraction under dual acid mixtures from onion (Allium cepa L.) waste
Authors: Şen Emine , Göktürk Ersen , Hajiyev Vugar , Uğuzdoğan Erdal
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study is to compare the physicochemical properties and yields of pectins extracted from onion waste under hot acid (HAE) and pulsed ultrasound‐assisted extraction (PUAE) methods using different organic–inorganic acids, their mixtures, and pure water. The extraction temperature for experiments carried out under HAE was kept at 90°C for 90 min, whereas PUAE experiments were accomplished at RT in 15 min. In general, HAE gave better pectin yields compared with PUAE due to the significance of the increasing extraction temperature for the release of pectin from the plant matrix. While the maximum pectin yield from onion waste was 16.22% for HAE, the highest yield for PUAE was 9.83%. PUAE provides less time‐ and energy‐consuming extraction of pectin within 15 min and thus seems to be more economic compared with the HAE. According to the physicochemical properties (equivalent weight (EW), degree of esterification (DE), methoxyl (MeO), and galacturonic acid (Gal‐A) contents) of obtained pectins, extracted pectins were mostly high methoxy pectin. While the DE and MeO values of pectins extracted in organic acid conditions under HAE were higher, these values were found to be higher for pectins extracted in inorganic acids under PUAE. For acid mixtures, the DE and MeO values of pectins under HAE were mostly found to be lower than those under PUAE. Sequential PUAE and HAE methods for the extraction of pectin from onion waste were also found to be useful in terms of obtaining higher yields and better physicochemical properties. The highest pectin yield was 20.32% for the sequential PUAE and HAE methods. FT‐IR analyses of the extracted pectins by both HAE and PUAE methods showed similar vibration bands compared with those of commercial citrus pectin.
A database of detrital zircon geochronology ages of Cambrian to Paleogene deposits in South China
Authors: Xia Tianle , Li Kuizhou , Hu Lisha , Zhao Zilin , Huang Yu , Ma Qianli , Qi Liang
Published: September 2023

Complications of detrital zircons databases provide a means for statistically analysing a variety of significant geological problems. In this work, we tried to collect a database about the South China Phanerozoic detrital zircon geochronology data. The data statistics of this paper rely on the OneSediment Working Group of The Deep‐time Digital Earth program (DDE). By November 2022, the database contains a total of 699 samples with 55,532 U–Pb ages and 3,770 effective Hf isotope data, from 130 papers. Abundant information including reference title, sample ID, locality, rock type, research institution, GPS coordinates, U–Pb ages, εHf(t) values, etc., have been involved in our database, and all data can be downloaded from DDE Data Publish & Repository website, https://repository.deep‐time.org/. Through the integrated data, we can improve the previous studies and avoid the waste of resources caused by a large number of repeated studies.
Pivot to prevent bowel cancer: Reflections on adapting an Aboriginal bowel cancer screening awareness program to a digital call to action—A commentary
Authors: Bonnefin Amy , Balafas Angela , Simone Lisa , Bedford Karen , Voukelatos Alexander , Hyde‐Page Alexander , Dalao Albert , Lyons Ricky , Coe Daniel , Wen Li Ming
Published: September 2023

Issue Addressed

The Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) Health Promotion Unit was awarded a Cancer Institute NSW grant to raise awareness of bowel cancer and promote the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) among Aboriginal communities in SLHD. The COVID‐19 pandemic thwarted initial plans for face‐to‐face workshops and plans pivoted to digital products and dissemination of messages on a range of communication platforms.

Discussion

The coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic provided staff with the freedom, flexibility, and ability to be creative in ways not possible prior to the pandemic and ultimately ended up with a superior product with a reach further than anticipated. A more comprehensive suite of digital resources addressing barriers to bowel cancer screening in the Aboriginal community was produced that is able to be used more broadly. These resources have reached a much larger population group through websites, social media, as well as TV and radio advertisements, and have the potential to be used and adapted in other local health districts and states across Australia.

Conclusion

Adapting an Aboriginal bowel cancer screening awareness program to a digital platform is a promising approach.

So What?

COVID‐19 provided an opportunity to create new long‐lasting partnerships and to be creative beyond the scope of the original grant. This in turn produced a product with a reach further than anticipated that can also be built on and sustained.
Acute colonic pseudo‐obstruction post‐cesarean section is not a benign entity: A case series and review of the literature
Authors: Reynolds Ian S. , McDermott Edward , Liddy Richard , Aird John J. , Flood Karen , McCormack Orla , Geoghegan Tony , Brannigan Ann E.
Published: September 2023

Acute colonic pseudo‐obstruction (ACPO) is an infrequent occurrence after cesarean section. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the clinical course of ACPO in the obstetric setting is different to that seen in non‐pregnant adult patients with ACPO secondary to alternative causes, such as systemic illnesses, the use of certain medications, and after non‐abdominal surgery. The risk of progression to ischemia and perforation, as well as the need for emergency surgery, appears to be higher after cesarean section. Here we describe the clinical course of ACPO in four patients after cesarean section from our institution, followed by a review of the literature and a discussion of the important issues surrounding this condition in the postpartum time period. The findings from our cohort of patients and the reports from the medical literature support a hands‐on combined approach from a group of specialists including obstetricians, surgeons, radiologists, and enterostomal therapists. Immediate imaging followed by regular observation is mandatory for any patient being managed conservatively. Early use of endoscopic decompression should be considered for patients who are not resolving with a conservative approach. Clinical signs of peritonism or radiological signs of ischemia or perforation in patients with ACPO mandate immediate surgical intervention. Appropriate postoperative care is necessary to deal with the complex physiological and psychological consequences of emergency surgery and potential stoma formation so soon after cesarean section.
Rights for me but not for thee: Restriction of human rights based on group membership and threat perceptions
Authors: Geedy‐Gill Trinity , Carriere Kevin R.
Published: September 2023

Policies aimed at limiting border crossing and influencing other cultural values have been enacted domestically and internationally in the name of security. However, do these decisions concerning such tradeoffs resonate equally across all groups? In two studies, we probe the moderating impact of intergroup threat on the inclination to restrict human rights. In Study 1, we employ a unique economic tradeoff model to directly compare the value of security with the rights of either citizens or non‐citizens. In Study 2, we broaden these findings by examining whether support for infringements on the right to privacy varies among diverse groups. Across both studies, our results consistently show that an increase in intergroup threat corresponds to heightened restriction of rights, but only when contemplating individuals who are not citizens, such as non‐citizens, residents, or foreigners. We propose future research directions that include promoting the concept of a global community and exploring altruistic behaviours associated with rights protection.
Evaluation on big data sharing model and key mechanism based on blockchain technology
Authors: Wu Wanqin , Liu Changrong , Yue Qingsheng , Bai Shenshen
Published: September 2023

Due to the reliability and wide application of blockchain technology, it has attracted wide attention worldwide. Blockchain technology is widely used in finance, logistics, medicine, system management, and Bitcoin. This paper aimed to study how to analyze and study the sharing model and key mechanism of Big Data (BD) based on blockchain technology. This paper analyzed the impact of BD information resource sharing, then built an Ethernet‐based BD sharing system, and tested the performance of the system. This paper also analyzed the system response time, node mining speed test, transmission speed, security and stability of Inter Planetary File System (IPFS). IPFS and blockchain Ethernet are installed on 20 hosts in Ali Cloud and Tencent Cloud servers and laboratories, respectively. The consensus mining main grid consists of 4 Windows 7 systems. In the stability test data of relevant systems, when the number of users was 20 and 100, the system stability was 99.77% and 96.93% respectively. To sum up, the system designed in this paper has certain stability and security, and is worthy of further promotion and application.
Imaging peritoneal blood vessels through optical coherence tomography angiography for laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Lee Minsuk , Bang Hyeonjin , Lee Eungjang , Park Sungsoo , Yoo Hongki , Oh Wang‐yuhl , Lee Seungrag
Published: September 2023

Laparoscopic surgery presents challenges in identifying blood vessels due to lack of tactile feedback. The image‐guided laparoscopic surgical tool (IGLaST) integrated with optical coherence tomography (OCT) has potential for in vivo blood vessel imaging; however, distinguishing vessels from surrounding tissue remains a challenge. In this study, we propose utilizing an inter‐A‐line intensity differentiation‐based OCT angiography (OCTA) to improve visualization of blood vessels. By evaluating a tissue phantom with varying flow speeds, we optimized the system's blood flow imaging capabilities in terms of minimum detectable flow and contrast‐to‐noise ratio. In vivo experiments on rat and porcine models, successfully visualized previously unidentified blood vessels and concealed blood flows beneath the 1 mm depth peritoneum. Qualitative comparison of various OCTA algorithms indicated that the intensity differentiation‐based algorithm performed best for our application. We believe that implementing IGLaST with OCTA can enhance surgical outcomes and reduce procedure time in laparoscopic surgeries.
Sustained neurotrophin‐3 delivery from hyaluronic acid hydrogels for neural tissue regeneration
Authors: Ramos Ferrer Pablo , Vardhan Sangamithra , Sakiyama‐Elbert Shelly
Published: September 2023

The goal of this work was to design a polymer‐based platform capable of localized, long‐term delivery of biologically active neurotropic factors using an affinity‐based approach. Here, we synthesized hyaluronic acid‐methylfuran (HA‐mF) hydrogels that provide sustained, affinity‐based release of neurotrophin‐3 (NT‐3), a growth factor that promotes axon growth for 28 days. A Diels‐Alder crosslinking reaction between HA‐mF and polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐dimaleimide occurs within 15 min under physiological conditions, resulting in hydrogels that can be polymerized in the presence of cells and growth factors. We also tuned the hydrogel's storage modulus to match that of native rat spinal cord tissue, providing a platform not only for localized drug delivery but also a suitable vehicle for cellular transplantation. The NT‐3 released from the HAmF hydrogels remains bioactive for at least 14 days, promoting axonal growth from primary sensory neurons as well as stem cell‐derived V2a interneurons and motoneurons in vitro. The hydrogels also supported cell growth allowing for 3‐dimensional axonal extensions within the scaffold matrix. Here we confirm the protective role of HA‐mF on matrix‐bound NT‐3 activity and show that these hydrogels are an excellent platform for growth factor delivery for neural applications.
Call for standardization in assessment and reporting of muscle and adipose change using computed tomography analysis in oncology: A scoping review
Authors: Klassen Pamela N. , Mazurak Vera C. , Thorlakson Jessica , Servais Stephane
Published: September 2023

Investigators are increasingly measuring skeletal muscle (SM) and adipose tissue (AT) change during cancer treatment to understand impact on patient outcomes. Recent meta‐analyses have reported high heterogeneity in this literature, representing uncertainty in the resulting estimates. Using the setting of palliative‐intent chemotherapy as an exemplar, we aimed to systematically summarize the sources of variability among studies evaluating SM and AT change during cancer treatment and propose standards for future studies to enable reliable meta‐analysis. Studies that measured computed tomography‐defined SM and/or AT change in adult patients during palliative‐intent chemotherapy for solid tumours were included, with no date or geographical limiters. Of 2496 publications screened by abstract/title, 83 were reviewed in full text and 38 included for extraction, representing 34 unique cohorts across 8 tumour sites. The timing of baseline measurement was frequently defined as prior to treatment, while endpoint timing ranged from 6 weeks after treatment start to time of progression. Fewer than 50% specified the actual time interval between measurements. Measurement error was infrequently discussed (8/34). A single metric (cm2/m2, cm2 or %) was used to describe SM change in 18/34 cohorts, while multiple metrics were presented for 10/34 and no descriptive metrics for 6/34. AT change metrics and sex‐specific reporting were available for 10/34 cohorts. Associations between SM loss and overall survival were evaluated in 24 publications, with classification of SM loss ranging from any loss to >14% loss over variable time intervals. Age and sex were the most common covariates, with disease response in 50% of models. Despite a wealth of data and effort, heterogeneity in study design, reporting and statistical analysis hinders evidence synthesis regarding the severity and outcomes of SM and AT change during cancer treatment. Proposed standards for study design include selection of homogenous cohorts, clear definition of baseline/endpoint timing and attention to measurement error. Standard reporting should include baseline SM and AT by sex, actual scan interval, SM and AT change using multiple metrics and visualization of the range of change observed. Reporting by sex would advance understanding of sexual dimorphism in SM and AT change. Evaluating the impact of tissue change on outcomes requires adjustment for relevant covariates and concurrent disease response. Adoption of these standards by researchers and publishers would alter the current paradigm to enable meta‐analysis of future studies and move the field towards meaningful application of SM and AT change to clinical care.
Overcoming barriers to drug development and enrollment in clinical trials for adolescents and young adults with lymphoma
Authors: Toner Keri , Allen Carl E. , Jain Shweta , Kahl Brad , Leonard John , Wasserstrom Heather , Friedberg Jonathan W. , Seibel Nita L. , Kelly Kara
Published: September 2023

Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers in adolescents and young adults, but historically, this population has had lower clinical trial enrollment and improvements in overall survival as compared to other age populations. There are multiple challenges that are unique to this population that have affected drug development and clinical trial enrollment. Our panel of experts have identified barriers, and in this review, we discuss current methods to address these barriers as well as potential solutions moving forward.
Butterfly abundance is higher in areas treated for fire ants
Authors: Geest Emily A. , Berman David D. , Baum Kristen A.
Published: September 2023

Red imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta; fire ants) are an invasive species that prey on arthropods in the southern United States. Researchers examined using fire ants to control agricultural Lepidoptera pests, but minimal research has investigated the effects of fire ants on the broader butterfly community. Three ranches in Texas, USA, with known fire ant occurrence underwent treatment to remove fire ants, creating a treated section and an untreated section for each ranch. We sampled sites using colored pan traps 3 times per sampling period during 2018 and 2019. Over 2 years, we collected 1,262 butterflies across 28 species in pan traps. Average butterfly abundance was higher in treated sites than untreated sites. The majority of species collected were in the family Hesperiidae, followed by the Pieridae family. We found Hesperiidae species more often in blue pan traps and Pieridae species more often in yellow pan traps. Butterfly species that overwinter as immature stages were more abundant in treated sites than in untreated sites, which suggests there could be a connection between fire ant presence and mortality of overwintering immature stages. Our results suggest that fire ants may negatively affect butterfly communities and differentially affect certain species. Additional research is needed to understand the effects of fire ants on butterflies and the overall pollinator community, and the effectiveness of pan traps for surveying Lepidoptera.
Age‐Related Histologic and Biochemical Changes in Auricular and Nasal Cartilages
Authors: Kim Sul Gi , Menapace Deanna C. , Mims Mark M. , Shockley William W. , Clark J. Madison
Published: September 2023

Objective

Analyze age‐related changes in histologic features and biochemical properties of human auricular cartilage and two subsites of nasal cartilages (quadrangular cartilage and dorsal septal articulation with upper lateral cartilages).

Study Design

Prospective cross‐sectional study of nasal and auricular cartilages from seventy‐three (73) live donors.

Methods

Auricular cartilage (AC), quadrangular cartilage (QC), and dorsal septal cartilage articulation (DSA) with the upper lateral cartilage (ULCs) were collected intraoperatively. Histochemical staining was used: Safranin O for glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), Verhoeff's for elastin, and Masson's trichrome for collagen. ImageJ2 software was used to calculate cell count and percent stained for each cartilage type. R studio “ggplot” package was used to visualize age versus cell count or percent stained.

Results

Participant ages ranged from 20 to 77 years, average 46.5 years. There was a significant decline in GAGs with age for the DSA subsite, (n = 64, p < 0.001). Significant increase in collagen content with age was observed for DSA subsite (n = 66, p < 0.001) and the QC subsite (n = 64, p < 0.05). There was a statistically insignificant decline in elastin with age (n = 41, p = 0.309) for AC. Cell count declined with age at all cartilage subsites.

Conclusion

Our findings confirm that there were age‐related decreases in cartilage glycosaminoglycan content, and chondrocyte cell count in both auricular and nasal cartilages. We have also confirmed that collagen content increases with age for both auricular and nasal cartilage. The histologic findings while not statistically significant in all comparisons, provides additional evidence that there is some loss of structural integrity and flexibility in nasal and auricular cartilage with aging.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:1220–1226, 2024
Prospective >12 Months Outcomes After Vocal Fold Injection Medialization With Silk Microparticle‐Hyaluronic Acid Material
Authors: Gao William Z. , Paoletti Marcus F. , Bensoussan Yael , Bhatt Neel K. , van der Woerd Benjamin , Shuman Elizabeth A. , Grant Nazaneen , O'Dell Karla , Johns Michael M.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Vocal fold injection medialization (VFIM) is widely used as an initial treatment for unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP). Current practices employ materials that share the limitation of temporary clinical effect from variable resorption rates. A novel silk protein microparticle‐hyaluronic acid‐based material (silk‐HA) has demonstrated cellular infiltration and tissue deposition that may portend a durable medialization effect. We report on ≥12 months outcomes after VFIM with silk‐HA.

Methods

Prospective open‐label study of patients with UVFP that elected treatment with VFIM with silk‐HA. Blinded experts rated laryngeal stroboscopic exams.

Results

Seventeen patients with UVFP underwent VFIM with silk‐HA. Twelve of the 17 patients have ≥12 months follow‐up. Seven patients demonstrated durable treatment benefit ≥12 months after injection with median improvement of 19 (p = 0.0156) in VHI‐10. There was no significant change in VHI‐10 between 1 and 12 months for these patients. Blinded ratings indicated that 5/7 patients with sustained improvements in VHI‐10 exhibited complete or touch glottal closure at 12 months. Two of the seven patients exhibited a small (<1 mm) glottal gap at 12 months. Seven patients experienced initial benefit with later regression 3–4 months after injection.

Conclusion

VFIM with silk‐HA can offer durable improvement in voice‐related outcomes for UVFP past 12 months. A subset of patients treated with silk‐HA experienced early loss of effect around 3–4 months postinjection. Clinical factors predictive of sustained treatment response to silk‐HA injection require further exploration.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:3679–3685, 2024
Predicting lake bathymetry from the topography of the surrounding terrain using deep learning
Authors: Martinsen Kenneth Thorø , Sand‐Jensen Kaj , Selvan Raghavendra
Published: September 2023

Lake morphometric features like surface area, volume, mean, and maximum depth are important predictors of many physical, biological, and ecological processes. Lake bathymetric maps that present the lake basin contours are thus an integral part of limnological investigations. Accurate but cumbersome traditional bathymetric surveys measure the depth using a lead line or echosounder. Recently, airborne bathymetric mapping using imagery or laser scanning has been attempted in shallow freshwater and coastal habitats. However, these methods depend on the ability of light to penetrate the water column, which can be problematic in eutrophic lakes and shallow lakes. To alleviate these issues, we developed and tested a deep learning model (based on the U‐net) using data from 153 lakes in Denmark to predict bathymetry using the topography of the surrounding terrain. The deep learning model performed much better (pixel‐wise mean absolute error: validation set = 1.75 and test set = 2.15 m) than baseline interpolation approaches (validation set = 3.12 m). In addition, the deep learning model generated more realistic bathymetry maps that did not suffer from interpolation artifacts. We find that the model performance improves slightly with increasing model size (number of trainable parameters) and the extent of the surrounding terrain. In addition, our pretraining procedure improved performance and reduced the time for model convergence. Because the model only relies on digital elevation data which are widely available, it can be fine‐tuned and used to predict lake bathymetry in other geographical regions.
Enhancement of Circularly Polarized Luminescence from Pulsating Nanotubules
Authors: Gu Zijian , Ma Wenyue , Feng Jun , Liu Zhaoyang , Xu Bin , Tian Wenjing
Published: September 2023

Enhancing the dissymmetry factor (glum) is a crucial issue in developing circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) materials. Herein, based on supramolecular self‐assembly of diethyl l‐glutamate‐cyanodiarylethene (L‐GC) in mixed solution of EtOH‐H2O with different water fraction, enhanced circularly polarized emission from pulsating nanotubules is realized. In the mixture of ethanol and water (30/70, v/v), L‐GC self‐assembles into roll‐up‐type dense nanotubes and shows l‐CPL. Remarkably, by increasing the water fraction to 80% and 90%, the diameter of the roll‐up nanotubes increases and the dissymmetry factor of the nanotubes is significantly enhanced from 6.9 × 10−3 (dense nanotubes) to 3.7 × 10−2 (loose nanotubes) because of the enhanced intermolecular interactions and more ordered supramolecular stacking when increasing the water fraction. An efficient way is provided here to realize the increase of the dissymmetry factor by only changing the composition of solvents.
Predictive value of risk factors for bladder dysfunction in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A case‐control study
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Xiufen , Liang Surui , Cai Wenzhi , Chen Ling , Hu Yingjie , Hao Fengming , Ren Wei
Published: September 2023

Objective

To analyze risk factors associated with bladder dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to construct a prediction model for early prediction of diabetic bladder dysfunction (DBD).

Methods

We included hospitalized patients with T2DM from the endocrinology department of Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China, from January 2019 to 2022. Factors associated with DBD in bivariate analysis with a p < 0.05 were included in a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent risk factors and to construct a prediction model. The prediction model was presented as the model formula. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of the above risk factors and the prediction model for DBD. The model was internally verified by Boostrap resampling 1000 times.

Results

Two hundred and eleven patients were included in this study, and they were divided into the DBD group (n = 101) and the non‐DBD group (n = 110). Eight variables showed significant significance in the bivariate analysis, including age, diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), urinary microalbumin (mALB), red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), percentage of monocyte (Mono%). Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age (OR [95% CI]: 1.077 [1.042−1.112]), p < 0.001; DPN (OR [95% CI]: 2.373 [1.013−5.561]), p = 0.047; HbA1c (OR [95% CI]: 1.170 [1.029−1.330]), p = 0.017 and ANC (OR [95% CI]: 1.234 [1.059−1.438]), p = 0.007 were independent risk factors for the DBD. The prediction model formula was Logit (p) = −6.611 + 0.074 age + 0.864 DPN + 0.157 HbA 1 c + 0.078 ANC. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for the four risk factors were 0.676, 0.582, 0.618, and 0.674, respectively. The prediction model predicted DBD with higher accuracy than the individual risk factors, AUC = 0.817 (95% CI: 0.757−0.877), and the sensitivity and specificity were 88.1% and 50.0%, respectively. The model internal validation results showed that the AUC = 0.804 (95% CI: 0.707−0.901), and the calibration curve is close to the ideal diagonal line.

Conclusions

Age, DPN, HbA1c, and ANC were risk factors for DBD. The prediction model constructed based on the four risk factors had a good predictive value for predicting the occurrence of DBD.
On functional observers for polynomial systems with nonlinear oscillations
Authors: Röbenack Klaus , Gerbet Daniel
Published: September 2023

In this contribution we discuss the design of functional observers for polynomial systems. Our approach is based on a high gain design employing an embedded observer. The functional to be estimated is generated from the high gain observer's state. The restriction to polynomial systems allows the representation of the system's and the observer's dynamics as polynomial ideals. For the calculations we utilize methods from algebraic geometry. Our approach is illustrated on a chaotic system.
Bilayer Couette flow over a profiled plate
Authors: Scholle Markus , Gaskell Philip H. , Ismail–Sutton Sara , Mellmann Marcel
Published: September 2023

The shear–driven, bilayer flow of two immiscible liquids sandwiched between a moving planar and a stationary corrugated plate, in parallel alignment and under Stokes flow conditions, is explored. The motivation, partly inspired by biomimetic considerations, is the use of surface texturing/topography to reduce friction and wear while increasing load carrying capacity in lubrication problems. The starting point of the associated mathematical formulation is a variational principle which, in addition to the classical fluid mechanical field quantities, includes potential fields enabling an elegant reformulation of the dynamic condition at the interface separating the two layers. Two methods of solution are utilised: (i) an analytic one of the field equations, boundary and interface conditions by invoking the long–wave approximation; (ii) an exact semi–analytic one, obtained after transformation to complex variables and application of a spectral method. For validation and comparison purposes a FE formulation of the classical continuity and Navier–Stokes equations is solved for. Resulting streamline patterns, interface shapes and wall shear stresses are discussed.
Sparse identification of the dynamics of a nonlinear multistable oscillator
Authors: Kamecke Steffen , Wulff Paul , Gräbner Nils , von Wagner Utz
Published: September 2023

Recently, data‐driven modeling approaches are getting increasingly examined regarding their applicability for nonlinear mechanical or mechatronic systems. With a high data availability and often insufficiently accurate descriptions of complex behavior of real systems using established physical models, statistical models provide promising alternatives. Alongside machine learning techniques like deep neural networks, sparse regression is increasingly used to obtain models from measurement data. With sparse regression, governing equations are estimated from a given function space so that the data are explained with as few terms as possible while maintaining a low model error. This method is implemented in a framework called sparse identification of nonlinear dynamics. This paper demonstrates the application of this method on free and forced vibrations of a two degree of freedom nonlinear rotary oscillator with two stable equilibrium positions. The setup and data acquisition as well as the application of sparse identification are described. The selected function space containing the candidate functions is essential for an accurate representation of the system at hand. Monomials form a commonly used function space because they can approximate a wide variety of nonlinear characteristics. However, in this work, it is shown that monomials alone are insufficient when dry friction appears. Therefore, to account for Coulomb friction, a sign‐function is added as a candidate to the function space of monomials up to the fifth order. Adaptions of the common optimization algorithms turned out to be necessary for the inclusion of Coulomb friction. As a result, it is found that the addition of the sign‐function for Coulomb friction increases the model quality significantly.
How do different types and characteristics of green space impact mental health? A scoping review
Authors: Beute F. , Marselle M. R. , Olszewska‐Guizzo A. , Andreucci M. B. , Lammel A. , Davies Z. G. , Glanville J. , Keune H. , O'Brien L. , Remmen R. , Russo A. , de Vries S.
Published: September 2023

Green space matters for mental health but is under constant pressure in an increasingly urbanising world. Often there is little space available in cities for green areas, so it is vital to optimise the design and usage of these available green spaces. To achieve this, experts in planning, design and nature conservation need to know which types and characteristics of green spaces are most beneficial for residents' mental health.

A scoping review of studies that compare different green space types and characteristics on mental health was conducted. A total of 215 (experimental, observational and qualitative) papers were included in the scoping review.

This review highlights a high level of heterogeneity in study design, geographical locations, mental health outcomes and green space measures. Few of the included studies were specifically designed to enable direct comparisons between green space types and characteristics (e.g. between parks and forests). The included studies have predominantly experimental research designs looking at the effects of short‐term exposure to green space on short‐term mental health outcomes (e.g. affect and physiological stress). More studies enabled only indirect comparisons, either within the same study or between different studies.

Analysis of the direction of the mental health outcomes (positive, neutral, negative) from exposure to various types and characteristics of green space found positive (i.e. beneficial) effects across all green space types. However, green space characteristics did appear to render more diverse effects on mental health, which is especially the case for vegetation characteristics (e.g. higher vegetation density can be negative for mental health).

The scoping review reveals gaps in the present evidence base, with a specific need for more studies directly comparing green space types and characteristics within the same study. Proposed future research directions include the use of longitudinal research designs focusing on green space characteristics, considering actual exposure and systematically addressing heterogeneity in factors influencing the relation between green spaces and mental health (e.g. type of interaction, user experience).

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