bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
cDC2 plasticity and acquisition of a DC3‐like phenotype mediated by IL‐6 and PGE2 in a patient‐derived colorectal cancer organoids model
Authors: Subtil Beatriz , van der Hoorn Iris A. E. , Cuenca‐Escalona Jorge , Becker Anouk M. D. , Alvarez‐Begue Mar , Iyer Kirti K. , Janssen Jorien , van Oorschot Tom , Poel Dennis , Gorris Mark A. J. , van den Dries Koen , Cambi Alessandra , Tauriello Daniele V. F. , de Vries I. Jolanda M.
Published: March 2024

Metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) is highly resistant to therapy and prone to recur. The tumor‐induced local and systemic immunosuppression allows cancer cells to evade immunosurveillance, facilitating their proliferation and dissemination. Dendritic cells (DCs) are required for the detection, processing, and presentation of tumor antigens, and subsequently for the activation of antigen‐specific T cells to orchestrate an effective antitumor response. Notably, successful tumors have evolved mechanisms to disrupt and impair DC functions, underlining the key role of tumor‐induced DC dysfunction in promoting tumor growth, metastasis initiation, and treatment resistance. Conventional DC type 2 (cDC2) are highly prevalent in tumors and have been shown to present high phenotypic and functional plasticity in response to tumor‐released environmental cues. This plasticity reverberates on both the development of antitumor responses and on the efficacy of immunotherapies in cancer patients. Uncovering the processes, mechanisms, and mediators by which CRC shapes and disrupts cDC2 functions is crucial to restoring their full antitumor potential.

In this study, we use our recently developed 3D DC‐tumor co‐culture system to investigate how patient‐derived primary and metastatic CRC organoids modulate cDC2 phenotype and function. We first demonstrate that our collagen‐based system displays extensive interaction between cDC2 and tumor organoids. Interestingly, we show that tumor‐corrupted cDC2 shift toward a CD14+ population with defective expression of maturation markers, an intermediate phenotype positioned between cDC2 and monocytes, and impaired T‐cell activating abilities. This phenotype aligns with the newly defined DC3 (CD14+ CD1c+ CD163+) subset. Remarkably, a comparable population was found to be present in tumor lesions and enriched in the peripheral blood of metastatic CRC patients. Moreover, using EP2 and EP4 receptor antagonists and an anti‐IL‐6 neutralizing antibody, we determined that the observed phenotype shift is partially mediated by PGE2 and IL‐6. Importantly, our system holds promise as a platform for testing therapies aimed at preventing or mitigating tumor‐induced DC dysfunction. Overall, our study offers novel and relevant insights into cDC2 (dys)function in CRC that hold relevance for the design of therapeutic approaches.
Comparison between the effects of epidural and intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia on postoperative disability‐free survival in patients undergoing thoracic and abdominal surgery: A post hoc analysis
Authors: Hirai S. , Ida M. , Naito Y. , Kawaguchi M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) and intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia (IV‐PCA) are widely used to mitigate immediate postoperative pain; however, their effects on long‐term disability‐free survival are poorly documented. This study aimed to compare the effects of postoperative TEA and IV‐PCA on disability‐free survival in patients who underwent thoracic or abdominal surgery.

Methods

This post hoc analysis of a prospective observational study included 845 inpatients aged ≥55 years that underwent elective thoracic and abdominal surgery between 1 April 2016 and 28 December 2018 in a tertiary care hospital. Inverse probability of treatment weighted (IPTW) using stabilized inverse propensity scores was adopted to minimize bias. The primary outcome in this study was disability‐free survival, defined as survival with a 12‐item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 score of <16%, assessed at 3 months and 1 year after surgery.

Results

The final analysis included 601 patients who received TEA and 244 who received IV‐PCA. After IPTW, the weighted incidence of disability‐free survival at 3 months and 1 year was 60.5% and 61.4% in the TEA group and 78.3% and 66.2% in the IV‐PCA group, respectively. The adjusted OR for disability‐free survival at 3 months and 1 year was 0.84 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50–1.39) and 1.21 (95% CI: 0.72–2.05), respectively, for the TEA group.

Conclusion

No significant differences were observed in the disability‐free survival at 3 months and 1 year after elective thoracic and abdominal surgery in patients aged ≥55 years who received TEA or IV‐PCA.

Significance statement

This study is the first in our setting to document the long‐term effects of patient‐controlled analgesia. In a post hoc analysis of our prospective cohort study, we show that although differences in chronic postsurgical pain exist at 3 months post‐surgery, disability‐free survival rates at 1 year do not differ irrespective of the choice of patient‐controlled analgesia. The findings of this study highlight the need for shared decision‐making between clinicians and patients.
What did Open Doors 2023 reveal about international students?
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: March 2024

Since 1948 the Institute of International Education, in collaboration with the United States’ Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, has been gathering data and publishing statistics on the number of international students enrolling in American colleges and universities, their countries of origin, and the number of Americans students studying abroad. This is a definitive survey of international and U.S. higher education student mobility.
FERPA and coaches 2
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: March 2024

Are coaches school officials? Although the answer can vary from college to college, the FERPA regulations require each college, in its annual FERPA notification to students, to identify who are school officials at their institution. That's where we left it last month.
Research on the initial tensile stiffness of T‐stub based on correlation
Authors: Xu Xinxing , Chen Shizhe , Yuan Hui
Published: March 2024

Semi‐rigid steel and composite joints are widely used in steel structures for their effectiveness and low constructional costs and mechanical property research on the semi‐rigid connections could not be ignored. There are still limitations to the performance analysis of mechanical components in connections based on component method, such as T‐stub. This study mainly focuses on the modification of the stiffness formula of T‐stub. Ten groups of different sizes of T‐stub were designed for monotonic loading tests and accurate finite element models were established for comparable study with the experimental results. Parametric analysis was performed on the finite element models, and the influence of each parameter on the tensile stiffness of T‐stub was analyzed. Finally, based on the correlation between tensile stiffness and the parameters, using the probabilistic design system (PDS) module, a T‐stub initial tensile stiffness theoretical formula which has a wide range of application and easier to use is proposed.
Development of high‐resolution monthly precipitation datasets for geomorphological applications in the Tianshan Mountains from 2000 to 2050
Authors: Fan Mengtian , Xu Jianhua , Chen Yaning , Zhang Wenjie , Wang Yuanwei , Dai Wen
Published: March 2024

Precipitation has a fundamental influence on landscape evolution and erosion rates. Accurate predictions of precipitation changes are crucial for landscape evolution modelling and erosion modelling. The Tianshan Mountains are known as the ‘Water Tower in Central Asia’, where precipitation is the main water supply for the surrounding lakes and rivers and also supports the population and economic development in the plain areas. This study developed a global climate model (GCM) and digital elevation model (DEM)‐based downscaling method and simulated high‐resolution monthly precipitation in Tianshan from 2000 to 2050, with a resolution of 90 m. The datasets developed from 30 surface observation stations had a high degree of precision and simulated the precipitation processes well in the historical period. The simulation results indicated that precipitation will increase at a rate of 11 mm/decade under the SSP245 scenario and 5 mm/decade under the RCP4.5 scenario from 2022 to 2050. Spatially, precipitation was projected to increase in the central and eastern regions and decrease in the western region. In the Kaidu, Urumqi and Manas river basins in the central Tianshan Mountains, precipitation was projected to increase at a rate of 20 mm/decade. The datasets developed here have important theoretical and practical implications for water resource management, and sustainable development in Central Asia.
Valorization of biomass for food protein via deep eutectic solvent extraction: Understanding the extraction mechanism and impact on protein structure and properties
Authors: Hanafi Mohamad Ariff , Anwar Farooq , Saari Nazamid
Published: March 2024

The conventional techniques for protein extraction from biomass are not fully aligned with sustainability goals, so it is important to look for some alternate solutions. By simultaneously extracting both soluble and insoluble proteins, deep eutectic solvents (DESs) offer a viable method for valorizing protein‐rich biomass from a variety of sources. Notably, the molecular crowding effects of DESs may have helped unfolded proteins acquire compact and stable conformations, facilitating solubilization and effective extraction. However, there is still a lack of information regarding how DESs interact with proteins and affect the structure and properties of the recovered proteins. To enable their widespread usage as a sustainable method for extracting dietary proteins, the safety of DES‐extracted proteins must also be addressed. In this paper, we review the state of the science in DES‐mediated protein extraction, focusing on the extraction mechanism and the interactions between DESs and proteins. Additionally, important aspects of DES‐mediated protein extraction that could affect the structure, technofunctional, nutritional characteristics, and safety of extracted protein are explored. DES‐based protein extraction could be helpful to valorize different biomasses for the production of food proteins due to the specific features.
Toward Ecologically Relevant Genetics of Interactions Between Host Plants and Plant Growth‐Promoting Bacteria
Authors: Duflos Rémi , Vailleau Fabienne , Roux Fabrice
Published: March 2024

The social movement to reduce reliance on pesticides and synthesized fertilizers and the growing global demand for sustainable food supplies require the development of eco‐friendly and sustainable agricultural practices. In line, plant growth‐promoting bacteria (PGPB) can participate in creating innovative agroecological systems. While the effectiveness of PGPB is highly influenced by abiotic conditions and microbe–microbe interactions, beneficial plant–PGPB interactions can also highly depend on both host and PGPB genotype. Here, the state of the art on the extent of natural genetic variation of plant–PGPB interactions and the underlying genetic architecture, in particular in Arabidopsis thaliana is reviewed. Extensive natural plant genetic variation in response to PGPB is associated with a polygenic architecture and genetic pathways rarely mentioned as being involved in the response to PGPB. To date, natural genetic variation within PGPB is little explored, which may in turn allow the identification of new genetic pathways underlying benefits to plants. Accordingly, several avenues to better understand the genomic and molecular landscape of plant–PGPB interactions are introduced. Finally, the need for establishing thorough functional studies of candidate genes underlying Quantitative Trait Loci and estimating the extent of genotype‐by‐genotype‐by‐environment interactions within the context of realistic (agro‐)ecological conditions is advocated.
Developments, bottlenecks, and opportunities in seed markets for improved forages in East Africa: The case of Kenya
Authors: Florez Jesús F. , Karimi Peggy , Paredes John J. J. , Ángel Natalia T. , Burkart Stefan
Published: March 2024

Background

Cattle farming plays a pivotal role in Africa's agricultural and livestock sector, poised for growth due to population expansion and rising per capita consumption of animal‐sourced food. Forages are a primary source of feed for dairy cattle, significantly impacting production costs. While local forage varieties are preferred by dairy farmers, there has been an increase in the adoption of improved forages in recent years. However, the overall adoption rate is still low, for example, due to underdeveloped forage seed markets.

Methods

This study describes the dynamics, challenges, and potential of these markets in Kenya and selected East African countries, focusing on (i) market evolution over the past decade, (ii) forthcoming market prospects, and (iii) bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement. Data were gathered in 2022 through qualitative interviews with stakeholders representing six segments of the forage seed sector across six countries.

Results

We found a sustained growth of the improved forage seed market in recent years. The main challenges for further growth are high seed prices, regulatory difficulties, and limited producer knowledge.

Conclusions

The findings unveil positive dynamics in the region's forage seed market, fueled by the engagement and determination of stakeholders who recognize the manifold benefits that it holds for both the dairy industry and economic growth. The realization of this market's potential requires addressing prevailing challenges, including elevated seed costs, intricate variety registration processes, and a pervasive lack of awareness among farmers.
What medical conditions lead to a request for euthanasia? A rapid scoping review
Authors: Rahimian Zahra , Rahimian Leila , Lopez‐Castroman Jorge , Ostovarfar Jeyran , Fallahi Mohammad J. , Nayeri Mohammad A. , Vardanjani Hossein M.
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Euthanasia is a controversial issue related to the right to die. Although euthanasia is mostly requested by terminally sick individuals, even in societies where it is legal, it is unclear what medical conditions lead to euthanasia requests. In this scoping review, we aimed to compile medical conditions for which euthanasia has been requested or performed around the world.

Methods

The review was preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis for scoping reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) checklist. Retrieved search results were screened and unrelated documents were excluded. Data on reasons for conducting or requesting euthanasia along with the study type, setting, and publication year were extracted from documents. Human development index and euthanasia legality were also extracted. Major medical fields were used to categorize reported reasons. Group discussions were conducted if needed for this categorization. An electronic search was undertaken in MEDLINE through PubMed for published documents covering the years January 2000 to September 2022.

Results

Out of 3323 records, a total of 197 papers were included. The most common medical conditions in euthanasia requests are cancer in a terminal phase (45.4%), Alzheimer's disease and dementia (19.8%), constant unbearable physical or mental suffering (19.8%), treatment‐resistant mood disorders (12.2%), and advanced cardiovascular disorders (12.2%).

Conclusion

Reasons for euthanasia are mostly linked to chronic or terminal physical conditions. Psychiatric disorders also lead to a substantial proportion of euthanasia requests. This review can help to identify the features shared by conditions that lead to performing or requesting euthanasia
The prevalence and causes of self‐medication among medical university students in Iran during COVID‐19 outbreak and its implications for public health and health systems: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kokabisaghi Fatemeh , Emadi Mina Sadat Mousavi , Tajik Amirmohammad , Sharifi Farshad , Houshmand Elaheh , Varmaghani Mehdi
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Self‐medication is a worldwide phenomenon that brings advantages and disadvantages to public health and health systems. This study investigated the extent and causes of self‐medication among medical university students and its implications for public health in Iran in 2020.

Methods

The present study was designed as a descriptive‐analytical cross‐sectional study that examined the knowledge, attitude, and practice of self‐medication. The population of the study was the students of health sciences programs who all entered the study. The data collection tool included a questionnaire designed online and available to students. The content validity ratio of the questionnaire was 0.84, and the alpha Cronbach coefficient was calculated at 0.8936.

Results

The prevalence of self‐medication among medical university students was 19%. The most common reason for self‐medication was the safety of medicines (66.67%). The most usual form of medication used was the tablet (35.67%), the most common drug taken was acetaminophen (69.01%), and the most common disease to self‐medicate for was headache (67.36%). Estimating the odds ratio of self‐medication with demographic variables showed no relationship. However, after adjusting the variables, age and type of degree showed an association with self‐medication, as the older participants and postgraduate students had positive attitudes toward self‐medication.

Conclusion

Self‐medication may be helpful, but it often needs proper guidance and logic and can carry various risks. Considering that medical sciences students will be influential in society in the future, it is necessary to pay more attention to correcting their drug use culture and providing access to health services for everyone. Appropriate prescription of medicines, controlling drug sales in pharmacies, highlighting the role of pharmacists in safe self‐medication, and controlling the prevalence of self‐medication is necessary.
Evaluation of antioxidant and antibacterial properties of dehydrocostus lactone isolated from Echinops kebericho root
Authors: Endalew Sisay Awoke , Taddese Minbale Gashu , Muhammed Meseret
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim

Echinops kebericho, an endemic plant to Ethiopia, traditionally used to treat infectious as well as noninfectious diseases. The primary objective of this study was isolating dehydrocostus lactone (DHCL) from E. kebericho and evaluating antibacterial activities on selected human pathogenic bacteria.

Methods

Extraction method used in this study was maceration. Based on the bioassay information methanol extract of the root of E. kebericho was subjected to column chromatography on silica gel by increasing solvent gradients to isolate DHCL. Optimized amount isolation of DHCL was done by dissolving methanol crude extract by hexane followed by recrystallization at room temperature in the dark place. Different concentrations of the extract were subjected by disc diffusion method against tested bacterial species and antioxidant activity test.

Results

The phytochemical analysis of E. kebericho revealed a high presence of terpenoids, which are diverse natural compounds known for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This suggests that terpenoids contribute significantly to the pharmacological effects of E. kebericho. In antibacterial testing, Escherichia coli was the most sensitive bacterium among all extracts and concentrations. The methanol extract displayed higher antioxidant activity compared to ethyl acetate and hexane extracts, indicating a higher concentration of antioxidant compounds. Notably, the isolated compound DHCL showed promising activity against tested pathogens and significant antioxidant activity. The higher activity of DHCL compared to the crude extracts suggests its responsibility for the observed effects, indicating that the isolation and purification process may have concentrated its beneficial properties. These findings highlight the potential of E. kebericho and DHCL as sources of bioactive compounds for therapeutic applications.

Conclusion

All tested extracts and pure compound showed higher inhibition than positive controls in both bioassay. DHCL the principal bioactive component in the root extract of the plant and it displayed potent antibacterial and antioxidant activity.
Does a co‐opted director affect a firm's financial distress risk?
Authors: Sarang Aitzaz Ahsan Alias , Rind Asad Ali , Manita Riadh , Saeed Asif
Published: March 2024

This study examines the relationship between co‐opted directors (CODIR), measured as the fraction of directors appointed after the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) assumes office to board size, and firms' financial distress risk (FFDR). Understanding the relationship between CODIR and FFDR is imperative due to the significant impact of high risk‐taking on financial crises and the heightened expectations placed on board members for risk oversight. Despite growing research on corporate governance and FFDR, little attention has been paid to the role of CODIRs, presenting a significant gap in the literature. Using a US sample from 1996 to 2019, covering 13,486 firm‐year observations, we document that CODIR reduces FFDR, supporting the hypothesis that co‐opted directors have a lower financial distress risk‐taking propensity than their non‐co‐opted counterparts. We also find that a critical mass of at least three CODIRs and independent CODIRs reduces FFDR. Our results also document that CEO power in the form of CEO duality and CEO tenure, external monitoring in the form of the number of analysts following the firm, competition, and takeover susceptibility do not drive our main conclusions for co‐option and FFDR. Finally, the results show that CODIR reduces FFDR through liquidity channels. The findings remain robust to various definitions of co‐option and distress risk, and are consistent in both difference‐in‐differences analysis and propensity score matching.
IVAN THEIMER
Authors: Theimer Ivan
Published: March 2024

One of Europe's leading sculptors talks about his use of ancient coins, polychroming, and miniatures as a means of carrying the past beyond the present into the future.
ROUNDELS
Authors: Buckley Davis
Published: March 2024

Replicating the coin as round decorative elements in architectural design has been practiced since Roman times. In our quest for more information on the subject, we asked two experts in the field to write brief sketches on the subject, with the following interesting outcome.
IGOR MITORAJ
Authors: Mitoraj Igor , Cortenova Giorgio
Published: March 2024

A conversation between Giorgio Cortenova and Igor Mitoraj

San Marino, Italy, June 26, 2000
Something Old Something New, Something Borrowed … Someone Sued!: Copyright Laws and Derivative Works
Authors: Chaires Susan C.
Published: March 2024

Under the United States copyright laws, the creator of an original work of art has five essential rights: (1) the exclusive right to sell the work, (2) the exclusive right to reproduce the work, (3) the exclusive right to display the work publicly, (4) the exclusive right to adapt, i.e., make changes to the work, and (5) the exclusive right to create derivative works based on the work. Inherent in the artist's rights of exclusivity is the right to authorize or license others to exercise these rights.
Large nesting expression in deer mice remains stable under conditions of visual deprivation despite heightened limbic involvement: Perspectives on compulsive‐like behavior
Authors: Marx Harry , Krahe Thomas E. , Wolmarans De Wet
Published: March 2024

Visual stimuli and limbic activation varyingly influence obsessive‐compulsive symptom expression and so impact treatment outcomes. Some symptom phenotypes, for example, covert repugnant thoughts, are likely less sensitive to sensory stimuli compared to symptoms with an extrinsic focus, that is, symptoms related to contamination, safety, and “just‐right‐perceptions.” Toward an improved understanding of the neurocognitive underpinnings of obsessive‐compulsive psychobiology, work in naturalistic animal model systems is useful. Here, we explored the impact of visual feedback and limbic processes on 24 normal (NNB) and large (LNB) nesting deer mice, respectively (as far as possible, equally distributed between sexes). Briefly, after behavioral classification into either the NNB or LNB cohorts, mice of each cohort were separated into two groups each and assessed for nesting expression under either standard light conditions or conditions of complete visual deprivation (VD). Nesting outcomes were assessed in terms of size and neatness. After nesting assessment completion, mice were euthanized, and samples of frontal‐cortical and hippocampal tissues were collected to determine serotonin and noradrenaline concentrations. Our results show that LNB, as opposed to NNB, represents an inflexible and excessive behavioral phenotype that is not dependent on visually guided action‐outcome processing, and that it associates with increased frontal‐cortical and hippocampal noradrenaline concentrations, irrespective of lighting condition. Collectively, the current results are informing of the neurocognitive underpinnings of nesting behavior. It also provides a valuable foundation for continued investigations into the noradrenergic mechanisms that may influence the development and promulgation of excessive, rigid, and inflexible behaviors.
Anterior cruciate ligament zoobiquity: Can man's best friend tell us we are being too cautious with the implementation of osteotomy to correct posterior tibial slope
Authors: Dan Michael J. , Wills Daniel J. , Crowley James D. , Cance Nicolas , Romandini Iacapo , Walsh William R. , Dejour David H.
Published: March 2024

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) is used to treat clinical instability post ACL rupture, however, there is a high rate of incomplete return to sport and rerupture. There is increasing interest in posterior tibial slope as an intrinsic risk factor for ACLR failure and persistent instability. Zoobiquity describes the collaboration between the human and veterinary professions in order to advance the scientific understanding of both fields. Given the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in dogs is synonymous with the anterior cruciate ligament in humans, functioning to control internal rotation and anterior translation, but osteotomies, rather than ligament reconstruction, are the mainstay of treatment for CCL rupture, this editorial sort to gain insights into this form of treatment from the veterinary world.

Level of Evidence: Level V, evidence.
Introgression and Stability of Common Bean Weevil (Acanthoscelides obtectus [Say]) Resistance in Diverse Market Classes From the Andean Gene Pool of Common Bean
Authors: Chinji Modreen , Hamabwe Swivia , Kuwabo Kuwabo , Mugovu Isabel , Thole Rebeca , Mazala Maria , Osorno Juan M. , McClean Phillip , Jochua Celestina , Urrea Carlos , Mukuma Chikoti , Chisale Virginia , Kamfwa Kelvin
Published: March 2024

The common bean weevil (Acanthoscellides obtectus [Say]) is a major post‐harvest pest of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in tropical regions. Developing and using weevil‐resistant varieties is the most environmentally and cost‐effective means of mitigating the losses caused by the common bean weevil. The arcelin–phytohemagglutinin–alpha‐amylase (APA) locus, originally from tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray), provides effective resistance against the common bean weevil. The APA locus is currently deployed in very limited market classes, and knowledge of the stability of its resistance across different market classes of common bean is limited. The objectives of this study were to (i) introgress the APA locus into selected market classes of Andean gene pool of common bean and (ii) determine the stability of APA‐based resistance to A. obtectus (AO) in multiple market classes of common bean. A total of 571 F5:7 breeding lines derived from crossing the weevil‐resistant breeding line AO‐1012‐29‐3‐3A (AO‐3A) possessing the APA locus with seven Andean genotypes belonging to five market classes were evaluated for resistance to AO. Of the 571 breeding lines screened, 16 were resistant, representing a low weevil resistance recovery rate of 2.8%. These lines are across diverse market classes, including those preferred in African countries. Of the 16 newly developed resistant breeding lines, six were more resistant to AO (scores ranging from 1–1.3) than AO‐3A (score of 2), and these can be used for further genetic enhancement of common bean resistance to AO.
Transformative privacy calculus: Conceptualizing the personalization‐privacy paradox on social media
Authors: Cloarec Julien , Meyer‐Waarden Lars , Munzel Andreas
Published: March 2024

The rapid evolution of digital marketing underscores a critical tension between personalization and privacy, exacerbated by advances in data technologies and artificial intelligence. This study delves into the personalization‐privacy paradox, emphasizing the dichotomy of consumer behavior—desiring customized interactions while guarding personal data. We explore how happiness with the internet (HWI) influences users' willingness to disclose personal information on social media, employing social exchange theory as our conceptual framework. Our research develops and tests a conceptual model that investigates the psychological mechanisms driving information‐sharing behaviors on social media, including the moderating roles of trust beliefs and information collection concerns. By examining the mediating effect of posting frequency on the relationship between HWI and information disclosure for personalization, our findings contribute to understanding the complex interplay between happiness, trust and privacy concerns, coined as transformative privacy calculus. Our study enriches social exchange and privacy calculus theories, providing valuable implications for marketers aiming to navigate the balance between personalization and privacy, suggesting strategies to enhance user engagement without compromising privacy standards.
FARS‐ADL across Ataxias: Construct Validity, Sensitivity to Change, and Minimal Important Change
Authors: Traschütz Andreas , Fleszar Zofia , Hengel Holger , Klockgether Thomas , Erdlenbruch Friedrich , Falkenburger Björn H. , Klopstock Thomas , Öztop‐Çakmak Özgür , Pedroso José Luiz , Santorelli Filippo M. , Schöls Ludger ,   RFC1 Study Group, PREPARE Consortium, Synofzik Matthis
Published: March 2024

Background

Patient‐focused outcomes present a central need for trial‐readiness across all ataxias. The Activities of Daily Living part of the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale (FARS‐ADL) captures functional impairment and longitudinal change but is only validated in Friedreich Ataxia.

Objective

Validation of FARS‐ADL regarding disease severity and patient‐meaningful impairment, and its sensitivity to change across genetic ataxias.

Methods

Real‐world registry data of FARS‐ADL in 298 ataxia patients across genotypes were analyzed, including (1) cross‐correlation with FARS‐stage, Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA), Patient‐Reported Outcome Measure (PROM)‐ataxia, and European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions visual analogue scale (EQ5D‐VAS); (2) sensitivity to change within a trial‐relevant 1‐year median follow‐up, anchored in Patient Global Impression of Change (PGI‐C); and (3) general linear modeling of factors age, sex, and depression (nine‐item Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ‐9]).

Results

FARS‐ADL correlated with overall disability (rhoFARS‐stage = 0.79), clinical disease severity (rhoSARA = 0.80), and patient‐reported impairment (rhoPROM‐ataxia = 0.69, rhoEQ5D‐VAS = –0.37), indicating comprehensive construct validity. Also at item level, and validated within genotype (SCA3, RFC1), FARS‐ADL correlated with the corresponding SARA effector domains; and all items correlated to EQ5D‐VAS quality of life. FARS‐ADL was sensitive to change at a 1‐year interval, progressing only in patients with worsening PGI‐C. Minimal important change was 1.1. points based on intraindividual variability in patients with stable PGI‐C. Depression was captured using FARS‐ADL (+0.3 points/PHQ‐9 count) and EQ5D‐VAS, but not FARS‐stage or SARA.

Conclusion

FARS‐ADL reflects both disease severity and patient‐meaningful impairment across genetic ataxias, with sensitivity to change in trial‐relevant timescales in patients perceiving change. It thus presents a promising patient‐focused outcome for upcoming ataxia trials. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Comparison of approximation methods for bending of finite and infinite elastic plates: The traction boundary value problem
Authors: Constanda Christian , Doty Dale
Published: March 2024

A generalized Fourier series method is designed to approximate the solution of the Neumann problem in a finite domain and in an infinite domain with a hole, for the mathematical model of bending of elastic plates with transverse shear deformation. The results in the two cases are compared and contrasted, and the analysis is illustrated by examples with specific boundary conditions.
Prevalence of Sleep CALM nocturia factors in a male veteran population
Authors: Monaghan Thomas F. , Fang Alexander , Ksido Lennox R. , Hachicho Carla , Muneeb Manahil , Rahman Syed N. , Bou Kheir George , Lazar Jason M. , Everaert Karel , Wein Alan J. , Weiss Jeffrey P.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Nocturia is a complex and multifactorial condition, associated with several genitourinary abnormalities as well as a host of conditions beyond the urinary tract, and thus often poses a significant diagnostic challenge in real‐world practice. Sleep Disorders, Comorbidities, Actions, Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction, and Medications, the so‐called “Sleep C.A.L.M.” factors, are five common causes of nocturia requiring judicious evaluation according to current consensus guidelines. This study aims to assess the prevalence of the Sleep C.A.L.M. factors in a nocturia clinical population.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of frequency‐volume charts from men with ≥2 nocturnal voids as well as concurrent demographic, clinical, and medical history data to identify patients with each of the Sleep C.A.L.M. factors. Comorbidities and medications were classified as a single group.

Results

A total of 213 subjects met the criteria for inclusion (median age 68.0 [63.5‐75.5] years). The prevalence of 1) sleep disorders, 2) comorbidities and/or medication use, 3) actions (i.e., modifiable behaviors/lifestyle factors), and 4) lower urinary tract dysfunction was 31%, 31%, 19%, and 41%, respectively. Among included participants, 73% were found to have at least 1 Sleep C.A.L.M. factor, and 33% had multiple Sleep C.A.L.M. factors. Results were similar upon stratification by age and nocturnal polyuria status.

Conclusions

The Sleep C.A.L.M. factors are highly common among nocturia patients in the clinical urology setting. Although many of these factors are strongly associated with advanced age in community‐based nocturia study samples, they appear common even among younger men in a nocturia patient population; the differential effect of age and individual Sleep C.A.L.M. factors on nocturia pathophysiology requires further investigation.
Nursing privilege: A concept analysis
Authors: Abujaber Ahmad A. , Nashwan Abdulqadir J.
Published: March 2024

Aim

The study aimed to provide a comprehensive concept analysis of nursing privileges by elucidating its meaning and implications within the healthcare context.

Design

A concept analysis paper.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted from nursing and healthcare databases, professional nursing organizations, and regulatory bodies. Documents reviewed include research studies, policy documents and professional guidelines. The study employed Walker and Avant's eight‐step method of concept analysis. This involved identifying the uses of the concept, its underlying attributes and referents, and constructing model, borderline, related and contrary cases. The antecedents, consequences and empirical referents of nursing privileges were also determined.

Results

The analysis uncovered vital attributes defining nursing privileges, encompassing professional authority, autonomy, access to resources, information, influence, decision‐making power, respect and recognition. Additionally, antecedents and consequences of nursing privilege were identified, spanning development and resource access, as well as professional satisfaction and enhanced patient care.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Development and characterization of kevlar and glass fibers reinforced epoxy/vinyl ester hybrid resin composites
Authors: Ahmad Hammad , Shah Atta Ur Rehman , Afaq S. Kamran , Azad Muhammad Muzammil , Arif Saad , Siddiqi Muftooh Ur Rehman , Xie Lijing
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the influence of kevlar and glass fiber reinforcements on the mechanical and thermal properties of epoxy/vinyl ester (hybrid resin) composite. The hybrid resin was synthesized by achieving an interpenetrating network between epoxy and vinyl ester. The composites were characterized using tensile, flexural, impact, and thermo‐gravimetric analysis (TGA). Scanning electron microscopy was employed to analyze surface morphology whereas Fourier‐Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy (FT‐IR) was used to investigate the possible interaction between the constituents of the composites. The findings have shown a notable improvement in the mechanical properties after the hybridization of the resin. For reference, the tensile strength of glass/hybrid resin and kevlar/hybrid resin composites were observed to increase by 8.33% and 23.65%, as compared to glass/epoxy and kevlar epoxy composites respectively, whereas, the bending strength of these composites was improved by 8.36% and 30.61%, respectively. TGA also showed an enhanced thermal stability of the hybrid resin‐based composites. Such improvements are noticed due to multi‐resin incorporation (the oxirane group of epoxy reacts with the hydroxyl group of vinyl ester), confirmed by the FTIR, TGA, and morphological analysis. This study signifies that the proposed hybrid composites are better in terms of strength and modulus relative to conventional metallic materials.

Highlights

The paper presents the development of novel hybrid resin, reinforced with synthetic fibers.

Hybrid resin is imparted positively and is highly favorable in improving the mechanical properties of composites.

The tensile strength of novel composites is increased by 8.33% and 23.65% relative to their base specimens, and a similar trend is observed in flexural and impact analysis.

Fractured analysis showed that composite laminates deteriorated more intensely due to cohesive matrix fracture; adhesion failure was not observed at all, as evidenced by the emergence of micro‐cracks in resin.

Developed novel composites exhibited maximum thermal stability; residual char in glass/epoxy/vinyl‐ester composite attained 17.81% higher, whereas kevlar/epoxy/vinyl‐ester achieved 3.56% relative to glass/epoxy and kevlar/epoxy base samples.
Factors associated with medial meniscal extrusion in non‐osteoarthritic knees with medial meniscus tears: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Liu Xinguang , Yang Bin , Liu Chen , Xin Xing
Published: March 2024

Background

Medial meniscal extrusion (MME) plays an important role in the progression of knee osteoarthritis. Exploring the factors associated with MME in non‐osteoarthritic knees may assist in the prevention of osteoarthritis.

Objective

To identify the factors associated with pathologic MME in non‐osteoarthritic knees with medial meniscus tears (MMTs).

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Participants

One hundred fifty patients with non‐osteoarthritic knees who underwent arthroscopic surgery for MMT. Patients were divided into a pathologic MME group (n = 54) and a control group (n = 96) based on whether a pathologic MME was present on magnetic resonance (MR) images.

Setting

Tertiary medical institution.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

The MME distance was measured on a coronal MR image obtained at the midpoint of the medial femoral condyle. An MME distance ≥3 mm was considered to indicate pathologic MME. Demographic and clinical data were collected as variables. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with pathologic MME.

Results

After multivariable adjustment, body mass index (BMI) and the type of MMT were associated significantly with pathologic MME in the multivariable logistic regression model. Each unit higher in BMI was associated with a 13% higher risk of pathologic MME (odds ratio [OR] 1.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.28, p = .04). The odds of pathologic MME were approximately four times and three times higher for radial tears (OR 4.34, 95% CI 1.25–15.03, p = .02) and complex tears (OR 3.07, 95% CI 1.17–8.05, p = .02) than for horizontal and longitudinal tears.

Conclusions

BMI and the type of MMT were independent factors associated with pathologic MME in non‐osteoarthritic knees with MMT. A higher BMI, radial tears, and complex tears were predisposed to pathologic MME.
Simulation‐based sample size calculations of marginal proportional means models for recurrent events with competing risks
Authors: Furberg Julie Funch , Andersen Per Kragh , Scheike Thomas , Ravn Henrik
Published: March 2024

In randomised controlled trials, the outcome of interest could be recurrent events, such as hospitalisations for heart failure. If mortality rates are non‐negligible, both recurrent events and competing terminal events need to be addressed when formulating the estimand and statistical analysis is no longer trivial. In order to design future trials with primary recurrent event endpoints with competing risks, it is necessary to be able to perform power calculations to determine sample sizes. This paper introduces a simulation‐based approach for power estimation based on a proportional means model for recurrent events and a proportional hazards model for terminal events. The simulation procedure is presented along with a discussion of what the user needs to specify to use the approach. The method is flexible and based on marginal quantities which are easy to specify. However, the method introduces a lack of a certain type of dependence. This is explored in a sensitivity analysis which suggests that the power is robust in spite of that. Data from a randomised controlled trial, LEADER, is used as the basis for generating data for a future trial. Finally, potential power gains of recurrent event methods as opposed to first event methods are discussed.
Combined longitudinal and lateral dynamics regulation of autonomous vehicles via induced ℒ2$$ {\mathcal{L}}_2 $$‐gain linear parameter varying control strategies based on parameter‐dependent Lyapunov functions
Authors: Gagliardi Gianfranco , D'Angelo Vincenzo , Casavola Alessandro
Published: March 2024

This article considers a path tracking control problem for autonomous vehicles constrained to maintain a safe distance from the next vehicle in the lane. The control design problem is solved by considering a mathematical model of the vehicle that jointly describes the lateral and longitudinal dynamics. Specifically, the optimal controller is designed aimed at minimizing the orientation and position tracking errors with respect to a given reference path. Moreover, the controller is able to ensure that the vehicle can both follow a speed profile and automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to maintain a proper distance from the next vehicle. The lateral dynamic is regulated by a 2‐DOF feedforward/feedback controller, where the feedforward law is implemented by exploiting an inverse kinematic model of the vehicle. On the other side, the feedback action, along with the action of the controller in charge to regulate the longitudinal dynamics, is the optimal gain‐scheduling state‐feedback controller. In particular, a parameter‐dependent quadratic Lyapunov function approach is used to reduce the conservativeness of the solution and a suitable convex LMI optimization problem is formulated for the synthesis. The vehicle is described by a seven‐degrees‐of‐freedom (7DOF) full‐car model, with the tire‐generated forces described by the classical Pacejka's Magic Formula. In order to assess the performance of the proposed control strategy, simulations have been undertaken in Matlab/Simulink by considering an autonomous vehicle driving into an urban scenario.
Robust interval predictive tracking control for constrained and perturbed unicycle mobile robots
Authors: Ríos Héctor , Mera Manuel , Raïssi Tarek , Efimov Denis
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we propose the design of a robust control strategy for the trajectory tracking problem in perturbed unicycle mobile robots. The proposed strategy comprises the design of a robust control law, which is based on an Integral Sliding‐Mode Control (ISMC) approach together with an interval predictor‐based state‐feedback controller through a Model Predictive Control (MPC) scheme. The robust controller deals with some perturbations in the kinematic model, which represent slipping effects, and with state and input constraints that are related to restrictions on the workspace and saturated actuators, respectively. The proposed approach guarantees the exponential convergence to zero of the tracking error. The performance of the proposed approach is validated through some simulations tracking a lemniscate and a circumference curve.
Re-Engagement, Quality of Life, and Burden of Treatment in Adults on Dupilumab for Severe Atopic Dermatitis—A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Porter Emma , O’Connor Cathal , Murphy Michelle
Published: March 2024

Background

Targeted biologic therapies have revolutionised the treatment of severe atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objectives

To assess effects of dupilumab on patient re-engagement, quality of life (QOL), and burden of treatment (BOT) in severe AD.

Methods

Adults on dupilumab for AD completed questionnaires on QOL, BOT, and provided qualitative reflections, with a subset interviewed to explore experience of leaving and re-engaging with dermatology. Prior treatments, adverse events, and clinical severity scoring were evaluated. Statements and interviews were qualitatively reviewed.

Results

Of 41 patients; median age was 34 years, 68% were male; and 93% (n = 38) had trialled ≥1 immunomodulatory therapies before dupilumab. Median dermatology life quality index was 21 (range 9–30, SD ± 5.1) pre-dupilumab, and 2 (range 0–11, SD ± 3.4) post-dupilumab. Median eczema area and severity index was 31.4 (range 10–46.4, SD ± 11.8) pre-dupilumab, and 6.4 (range 0.4–13.2, SD ± 3.6) on dupilumab. Burden of treatment scores on dupilumab were low (median 0–3/10) across all domains. Themes identified pre-dupilumab included sleep disturbance, low self-esteem, social isolation, disempowerment, frustration with ineffective treatments, and high financial costs. Benefits included confidence reacquisition, enhanced sleep, liberation from time-consuming ‘messy’ topical regimes, improved relationships, and reclaimed autonomy. Side effects included red/itchy eyes (37%, n = 13) and facial dermatitis (20%, n = 7).

Twelve patients had deeper interviews. Regarding disengagement with dermatology, themes included ineffectiveness and toxicity of older treatments, attendance futility, dermatologist fatigue, and ‘fizzling out’. Regarding re-engagement with dermatology, themes included social media influence, novelty, exasperation with QOL, and life-changing improvements seen with dupilumab.

Conclusions

The emergence of novel effective treatments for AD has significant implications for dermatology workforce and financial planning.