bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymer Containing Multiple Secondary Structures—A Competition between Helical Induction and C‐T Complexation
Authors: Deepak  , Bisht Arjun Singh , Roy Raj Kumar
Published: August 2023

Though “foldamers” have greatly developed, molecules that fold beyond 2° structures are less common. The design and synthesis of triblock copolymers of the “A‐B‐A” type containing two types of helix formation blocks are presented. Two blocks (A and B) are chosen, with one comprised of L‐polyproline as block “A” and the other block (B) comprised with three naphthalene diimide‐derivatives separated by two proline residues. Block (B) is carefully designed to serve as a bifunctional initiator for the ring‐opening polymerization of proline‐N‐carboxy anhydride as well as to encapsulate an electron‐rich aromatic species by charge transfer complexation (C‐T). As a result of (C‐T) complexation with dialkoxy pyrene, the native helical structure of the middle block is transformed into a 1D columnar structure without affecting the 2° structure of the polyproline block. In this way, the initial helix1‐b‐helix2‐b‐helix1 structure of the block copolymers is transformed into a helix1‐b‐columnar‐b‐helix1 structure. The C‐T complexation and related structural changes of the block copolymers are characterized using UV‐vis, fluorescence, and circular dichroism spectroscopy.
Microstructure characterization and mechanistic insight into polyether polyols and their associated polyurethanes
Authors: Gies Anthony P. , Hercules David M. , Raghuraman Arjun , Kosanovich Alex J. , Baker Matthew A. , Mukhopadhyay Sukrit , Kobylianskii Ilia , Paradkar Manjiri
Published: August 2023

This article reviews the analytical tool chest used for characterizing alkoxylates and their associated copolymer mixtures. Specific emphasis will be placed upon the use of mass spectrometry‐based techniques as rapid characterization tools for optimizing reaction processes in an industrial R&D setting. An initial tutorial will cover the use of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry fragmentation for detailed component analysis (e.g., polyol and isocyanate) of a model polyurethane‐based foam. Next, this critical feedback information will be used with the guidance of mass spectrometry to initiate the development of a new, more efficient, tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (FAB) catalyst‐based alkoxylation process for generating the next generation of glycerin‐initiated poly(propylene oxide)‐co‐poly(ethylene oxide) copolymers. Examples will be provided for each step in the FAB‐based optimization process that were required to generate the final product. Following this example, two‐dimensional liquid chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography, and ion mobility separations, along with their coupling to mass spectrometry, will be reviewed for their efficiency in characterizing and quantitating the components within these complex polyether polyol mixtures.
Corruption‐induced bank nonperforming loans
Authors: Tao Yunqing , Ye Yongwei , Hou Wanyue
Published: August 2023

By introducing China's anticorruption movement, we establish the causal effect of corruption on nonperforming loans (NPLs). Through manual collection of all publicly available bank data and difference‐in‐differences (DID) regression analysis, the results show that the anticorruption movement significantly reduces NPLs, indicating that corruption leads to NPLs. In addition, the anticorruption movement is more effective in reducing NPLs for banks with higher risks, suggesting the existence of risk prevention mechanisms. Finally, our main conclusions are more pronounced in state‐owned commercial banks, banks located in regions with strong legal environment, and unlisted banks. Overall, this paper argues that corruption is also a factor leading to NPLs and provides solid empirical evidence for the anticorruption movement to reduce NPLs in China.
Caregiver‐based perception of disease burden in Schaaf‐Yang syndrome
Authors: Dötsch Laura , Matesevac Lisa , Strong Theresa V. , Schaaf Christian P.
Published: August 2023

Background

Schaaf‐Yang syndrome (SYS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by truncating variants in the paternally expressed MAGEL2 gene in the Prader‐Willi syndrome‐region on chromosome 15q. In addition to hypotonia and intellectual disability, individuals with SYS are frequently affected by neonatal contractures and autism spectrum disorder. In this study, we focus on the burden of disease on patients and their families for the first time.

Methods

Based on the online SYS Patient Voices Survey the perspective of 81 primary caregivers on SYS was assessed.

Results

The perceived severity of muscular and developmental manifestations dominated the evaluation of the phenotype in early childhood, while behavioral issues were considered more impactful later in life. Importantly, an apprehension toward symptoms with a later onset was observed in caregivers of younger children. Available therapeutic options, while mostly effective, did not sufficiently alleviate the total burden of disease. Overall, parents stated that caring for an individual with SYS was very challenging, affecting their daily lives and long‐term planning.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the necessity for treatments that, adapted to age and in accordance with the caregivers' prioritization, improve the patients' medical condition and thus facilitate their and their families' social participation.
Development of a morphologically realistic mouse phantom for pre‐clinical photoacoustic imaging
Authors: Grasso Valeria , Raymond Jason L. , Willumeit‐Römer Regine , Joseph James , Jose Jithin
Published: August 2023

Background

Characterizations based on anatomically realistic phantoms are highly effective to perform accurate technical validation of imaging systems. Specifically for photoacoustic imaging (PAI), although a variety of phantom models with simplified geometries are reported, an unmet need still exists to establish morphologically realistic heterogeneous pre‐clinical phantoms. So the development of a mouse‐mimicking phantom can reduce the use of animals for the validation and standardization studies of pre‐clinical PAI systems and thus eventually translate the PAI technology to clinical research.

Purpose

Here we designed, developed, and fabricated a stable phantom that mimics the detailed morphology of a mouse, to be used as a realistic tool for PAI.

Methods

The mouse phantom, has been designed by using a combination of image modeling and 3D‐printing techniques. As a tissue‐mimicking material, we have used copolymer‐in‐oil‐based material that was recently proposed by the International Photoacoustic Standardization Consortium (IPASC). In particular, the anatomically realistic phantom has been modeled by using the real atlas of a mouse as a reference. The mouse phantom includes a 3D‐printed skeleton and the main abdominal organs such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys obtained by using doped copolymer‐in‐oil material with 3D‐printed molds. In addition, the acoustic and optical properties of the tissue‐mimicking material and the long‐term stability have been broadly characterized.

Results

Furthermore, our studies showed that the phantom is durable and stable for more than 200 days, under normal storage and repeated use. Fabrication protocol is easy to reproduce. As a result, the proposed morphologically realistic mouse phantom offers durability, material compatibility, and an unprecedented realistic resemblance to the actual rodents’ anatomy in PAI.

Conclusion

This durable morphologically realistic mouse phantom would minimize the animal experiments in compliance with the 3R principle of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. To our knowledge, this is the first time an anatomically realistic heterogeneous mouse phantom has been proposed for PAI in pre‐clinical animal imaging and tested its durability over 200 days.
Optimal targeted mass screening in non‐uniform populations with multiple tests and schemes
Authors: Lin Jiayi , Aprahamian Hrayer , Golovko George
Published: August 2023

We study the problem of designing optimal targeted mass screening of non‐uniform populations. Mass screening is an essential tool that is widely utilized in a variety of settings, for example, preventing infertility through screening programs for sexually transmitted diseases, ensuring a safe blood supply for transfusion, and mitigating the transmission of infectious diseases. The objective of mass screening is to maximize the overall classification accuracy under limited budget. In this paper, we address this problem by proposing a proactive optimization‐based framework that factors in population heterogeneity, limited budget, different testing schemes, the availability of multiple assays, and imperfect assays. By analyzing the resulting optimization problem, we take advantage of the structure of the problem as a multi‐dimensional fractional knapsack problem and identify an efficient globally convergent threshold‐style solution scheme that fully characterizes an optimal solution across the entire budget spectrum. Using real‐world data, we conduct a geographic‐based nationwide case study on targeted COVID‐19 screening in the United States. Our results reveal that the identified screening strategies substantially outperform conventional practices by significantly lowering misclassifications while utilizing the same amount of budget. Moreover, our results provide valuable managerial insights with regard to the distribution of testing schemes, assays, and budget across different geographic regions.
Pregnancy rate, maternal and neonatal outcomes among breast cancer survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Azizi Marzieh , Ebrahimi Elham , Moghadam Zahra Behboodi , Shahhosseini Zohreh , Modarres Maryam
Published: August 2023

Aim

This study investigated the pregnancy rate, maternal and neonatal outcomes, and breast cancer (BC) recurrence status after pregnancy among BC survivors.

Design

A systematic review.

Methods

Electronic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science [WOS], Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Scientific Information Database were systematically searched. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). Observational studies reported the pregnancy rate, maternal and neonatal outcomes among reproductive‐aged BC survivors, and the recurrence status of BC after pregnancy were eligible to include in this study.

Results

Of the 29 included studies, 13 studies were prospective cohorts or prospective multicenter or population‐based cohorts, 14 studies were retrospective cohort or retrospective population‐based cohort studies, and two studies were cross‐sectional retrospective surveys or population‐based descriptive studies. This systematic review showed that the pregnancy rate was estimated at 3.1%–48.5% among BC survivors who attempted to conceive. The most prevalent maternal outcomes of pregnancy were miscarriage (1.8%–33.3%) and induced abortion (5.0%–44%) as well as preterm birth (PTB) or very PTB (1.2%–21.1%), and twin birth (1.1%–38.8%) were the most prevalent neonatal outcomes occurring among BC survivors, respectively. In addition, most of the included studies indicated that pregnancy had no adverse effect on the status of BC recurrence among survivors. Surviving women can be encouraged and receive a carefully multidisciplinary approach regarding healthy pregnancy.

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Asian females without diabetes are protected from obesity‐related dysregulation of glucose metabolism compared with males
Authors: Lee Michelle H. , Febriana Eveline , Lim Maybritte , Baig Sonia , Halter Jeffrey B. , Magkos Faidon , Toh Sue‐Anne
Published: August 2023

Objective

The impact of obesity on the risk for type 2 diabetes differs between males and females; however, the underlying reasons are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of sex on obesity‐driven changes in the mechanisms regulating glucose metabolism (insulin sensitivity and secretion) among Asian individuals without diabetes in Singapore.

Methods

The study assessed glucose tolerance using oral glucose tolerance test, insulin‐mediated glucose uptake using hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp, acute insulin response using an intravenous glucose challenge, and insulin secretion rates in the fasting state and in response to glucose ingestion using mathematical modeling in 727 males and 952 females who had normal body weight (n = 602, BMI < 23 kg/m2), overweight (n = 662, 23 ≤ BMI < 27.5), or obesity (n = 415, BMI ≥ 27.5).

Results

There were no sex differences among lean individuals. Obesity gradually worsened metabolic function, and the progressive adverse effects of obesity on insulin action and secretion were more pronounced in males than females, such that among participants with obesity, females had greater insulin sensitivity, lower insulin secretion, and lower fasting insulin concentration than males. The increase in waist to hip ratio with increasing BMI was more pronounced in males than females.

Conclusions

The female sex exerts a protective effect on obesity‐driven dysregulation of glucose metabolism in Asian individuals without diabetes.
Structural design and synthesis of naphthalene‐containing phthalonitrile polymer with excellent processability and high temperature properties
Authors: Jia Zhiyi , Zhang Xinyang , Wang Xinyang , Zhao Tao , Chen Xinggang , Wu Minjie , Rong Jianxin , Jia Dianqiu , Yu Xiaoyan , Zhang Qingxin
Published: August 2023

Currently, there is limited literature on the introduction of naphthalene ring into phthalonitrile. In this study, we have successfully synthesized a novel phthalonitrile monomer (CPND) by incorporating a symmetrical rigid naphthalene ring structure, long flexible chains, and high‐density cyano groups into the resin. The monomer is being cured with two different agents and procedures to investigate the impact of curing agent structure and ramp‐up procedure on polymer properties. The structure of the monomer is being verified using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results reveal that the monomer has a low melting point of 111°C, making it easily processable. After mixing with the curing agent in the appropriate proportion, it has a calculated processing window of 129–135°C. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) reveals that the polymers exhibit remarkable thermal stability, with all T5% above 470°C under a nitrogen atmosphere. Additionally, the results obtained from dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) indicate that the polymer, which is cured using APPH as a curing agent, displays favorable thermo‐mechanical properties. The storage modulus of the polymers at room temperature is all higher than 3330 MPa, respectively. Moreover, the glass transition temperature is found to be higher than 400°C, signifying the excellent thermo‐mechanical properties of the polymer.
Proteomics and bioinformatics investigations to improve serological diagnosis of canine brucellosis
Authors: Luciani Mirella , Krasteva Ivanka , Di Febo Tiziana , Perletta Fabrizia , D'Onofrio Federica , De Massis Fabrizio , D'Alterio Nicola , Sacchini Flavio , Tittarelli Manuela
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Brucella canis is pathogenic for dogs and humans. Serological diagnosis is a cost‐effective approach for disease surveillance, but a major drawback of current serological tests is the cross‐reactivity with other bacteria that results in false positive reactions. Development of indirect tests with improved sensitivity and specificity that use selected B. canis proteins instead of the whole antigen remain a priority.

Experimental Design

A western blotting assay was developed to define the serum antibody patterns associated to infection using a panel of positive and negative dog sera. B. canis positive sera recognized immunogenic bands ranging from 7 to 30 kDa that were then submitted to ESI–LC‐MS/MS and analyzed by bioinformatics tools.

Results

A total of 398 B. canis proteins were identified. Bioinformatics tools identified 16 non cytoplasmic immunogenic proteins predicted as non‐homologous with the most important Brucella cross‐reactive bacteria and nine B. canis proteins non‐homologous to B. ovis; among the latter, one resulted non‐homologous to B. melitensis. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD042682.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

The western blotting test developed was able to distinguish between infected and non‐infected animals and may serve as a confirmatory test for the serological diagnosis of B. canis. The mass spectrometry and in silico results lead to the identification of specific candidate antigens that pave the way for the development of more accurate indirect diagnostic tests.
Photoresponsivity Enhancement of Monolayer MoS2 by Silicon Quantum Dots
Authors: Gu Minseon , Lee Keun Wook , Park Beomjin , Joo Beom Soo , Chang Young Jun , Park Dong-Wook , Han Moonsup
Published: August 2023

Hybrid 2D/0D structures with various 2D materials and 0D quantum dots (QDs) have been studied to overcome the limitations of 2D materials. In this work, a hybrid structure with MoS2 and silicon quantum dots (Si QDs) as a photodetector is developed. The I–V transfer characteristics show a threshold voltage shift after decorating Si QDs on MoS2, which results from an n‐type doping effect to the MoS2 channel from the Si QDs. The field‐effect mobility of the MoS2/Si QDs device is increased by ≈5.8 times compared with that of the bare MoS2 device. It is understood that the mobility enhancement is attributed to the surface defect passivation of MoS2 at the interface with Si QDs. It is observed that the photoresponsivity of the MoS2/Si QDs structure is improved by ≈7.7 times compared with that of the bare MoS2 device under 500 nm illumination. Additionally, it is observed that the photoluminescence (PL) intensity of MoS2 is increased about 4.5 times after decoration of Si QDs. The band alignment as type I at the interface between the Si QDs and MoS2 is interpreted. The mobility enhancement and the photoexcited charge transfer (CT) between the MoS2 and the Si QDs due to the illumination lead to enhancing the photoresponsivity of the MoS2/Si QDs hybrid structure.
Risk‐sensitive stochastic maximum principle for forward‐backward systems involving impulse controls
Authors: Xu Ruimin , Zhou Ying
Published: August 2023

In this article, we study a risk‐sensitive stochastic optimal control problem driven by forward‐backward systems in which the control variable consists of two components: the continuous control and the impulse control. The control domain is assumed to be convex. We establish the maximum principle (i.e., necessary condition) for this kind of control problem. Under some additional assumptions, the necessary optimality conditions turn out to be sufficient. To explain the theoretical results, a linear‐quadratic risk‐sensitive control problem is solved by using the maximum principle derived and the optimal control is obtained.
P‐8.2: CNN for Dual‐layer LCDs
Authors: Zhang Xin , Ren Hongtao , Feng Qibin , Wang Zi , Lv Guoqiang
Published: August 2023

Low contrast ratio (CR) is one big drawback for LCD, which is caused by light leakage of LC cell. Light leakage can be greatly reduced by bonding two LC panels to form a dual‐layer LCD. However, with the certain distance between the two LC panels, the ghost may appear when viewing off‐axis. This paper proposes a convolutional neural network‐based method to improve the display quality of a dual‐layer LCD. The network consists of 8 convolution layers, in which the kernel of the layer 4 and layer 8 is 1×1 to eliminate the redundant features and accelerate the processing speed. The kernel of the other layers is 3×3. Concat1 and Concat2 are included to fuse the features from the convolution layer 1‐3 and 5‐7. The loss function is especially defined with the consideration of the total differences between the reconstructed images at the different viewing angles and the input image. The simulation results show that compared with the existing methods, the proposed method has the merits of higher display quality and shorter processing time, which presents high practicability.
Dimensional effect of graphene nanostructures on cytoskeleton‐coupled anti‐tumor metastasis
Authors: Du Qiqige , Li Na , Lian Jiaqi , Guo Jun , Zhang Yi , Zhang Feng
Published: August 2023

Interactions between inorganic materials and living systems can be strongly influenced by the dimensional property of the materials, which can in turn impact biological activities. Although the role of biomaterials at the molecular and cellular scales has been studied, research investigating the effects of biomaterials across multiple dimensional scales is relatively scarce. Herein, comparing the effectiveness of two‐dimensional graphene oxide nanosheets (GOs) and three‐dimensional graphene oxide quantum dots (GOQDs) (though not zero‐dimensional because of their significant surface area) in cancer therapies, we have discovered that GOs, with the same mass concentration, exhibit stronger anti‐cancer and anti‐tumor metastasis properties than GOQDs. Our research, which employed liquid‐phase atomic force microscopy, revealed that lower‐dimensional GOs create a more extensive nano‐bio interface that impedes actin protein polymerization into the cytoskeleton, leading to the prevention of tumor metastasis. These results help to better understand the underlying mechanisms and offer a dimensional perspective on the potential of optimizing the properties of graphene‐based materials for clinical applications, e.g., cancer therapy.
W. E. B. Du Bois as Interactionist: Reflections on the Canonical Incorporation of a Marginalized Scholar
Authors: Ruiz‐Junco Natalia , Vidal‐Ortiz Salvador
Published: August 2023

Recent scholarship explores the relevance and canonical status of W. E. B. Du Bois in sociological theory; yet less is said about his contributions to symbolic interactionism. This paper interrogates the emerging meaning of W. E. B. Du Bois for sociology, and the nature of his canonical incorporation. We explore the less “official” dimensions of Du Boisian theory, and in particular two of his contributions to symbolic interactionism: double consciousness and autoethnography. In the last part of the paper, we suggest that Du Bois's incorporation into the sociological canon can be viewed as a process of “centering,” and argue that this form of sponsoring of Du Bois's work can elevate some interpretations of Du Bois to the detriment of others.
Recent insights explaining susceptibility to endometriosis—From genetics to environment
Authors: Pais Ana Sofia , Almeida‐Santos Teresa
Published: August 2023

Endometriosis is a disease with a heterogeneous pathogenesis, explained by multiple theories, and also with a polymorphic presentation. The purpose of this literature review is to systematize the genetic, inflammatory, and environmental factors related to the pathophysiology of endometriosis. Current evidence suggests that endometriosis is a complex inherited genetic condition, in which the genes that determine susceptibility to the disease interact with the environment to develop different phenotypes. Genetic variants associated with risk of endometriosis have been identified in several genome‐wide association studies, in addition to a group of genes related to the pathophysiology of endometriosis, namely the estrogen, progesterone and androgen receptors and the cytochrome P450 gene, as well as the p53 gene. The role of inflammation is controversial; however, it is an essential process, both in the initiation and perpetuation of the disease, in and outside the pelvis. Alterations in reactive oxygen species pathways that consequently determine oxidative stress are typical in the inflammatory environment of endometriosis. The role of environmental factors is a relatively new and broad‐spectrum topic, with inconsistent evidence. Multiple factors have been studied such as endocrine‐disrupting chemicals, metals, intrauterine exposure to diethylstilbesterol and lifestyle risk factors. In conclusion, endometriosis remains a mysterious condition, with multifactorial factors involved in its pathophysiology. The progress that has been made in the genetic predisposition to endometriosis may allow the establishment of new therapeutic targets. On the other hand, understanding the role of the environment in this disease may allow preventive intervention, minimizing its incidence and/or severity.

This article is categorized under:

Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology

Reproductive System Diseases > Environmental Factors

Reproductive System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics
Recommender Systems, Manipulation and Private Autonomy: How European Civil Law Regulates and Should Regulate Recommender Systems for the Benefit of Private Autonomy
Authors: Grisse Karina
Published: August 2023

Recommender systems determine the content that users see and the offers they receive in digital environments. They are necessary tools to structure and master large amounts of information and to provide users with information that is (potentially) relevant to them. In doing so, they influence decision-making. The chapter examines under which circumstances these influences cross a line and can be perceived as manipulative. This is the case if they operate in opaque ways and aim at certain decision-making vulnerabilities that can comprise the autonomous formation of the will. Used in that way, they pose a danger to private autonomy that needs to be met by law. This chapter elaborates where the law of the European Union already adequately addresses these threats and where further regulation is needed.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi influence the intraspecific competitive ability of plants under field and glasshouse conditions
Authors: Groten Karin , Yon Felipe , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: August 2023

Main conclusion

Nicotiana attenuata’s capacity to interact with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi influences its intraspecific competitive ability under field and glasshouse conditions, but not its overall community productivity.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi can alter the nutrient status and growth of plants, and they can also affect plant–plant, plant–herbivore, and plant–pathogen interactions. These AM effects are rarely studied in populations under natural conditions due to the limitation of non-mycorrhizal controls. Here we used a genetic approach, establishing field and glasshouse communities of AM-harboring Nicotiana attenuata empty vector (EV) plants and isogenic plants silenced in calcium- and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase expression (irCCaMK), and unable to establish AM symbioses. Performance and growth were quantified in communities of the same (monocultures) or different genotypes (mixed cultures) and both field and glasshouse experiments returned similar responses. In mixed cultures, AM-harboring EV plants attained greater stalk lengths, shoot and root biomasses, clearly out-competing the AM fungal-deficient irCCaMK plants, while in monocultures, both genotypes grew similarly. Competitive ability was also reflected in reproductive traits: EV plants in mixed cultures outperformed irCCaMK plants. When grown in monocultures, the two genotypes did not differ in reproductive performance, though total leaf N and P contents were significantly lower independent of the community type. Plant productivity in terms of growth and seed production at the community level did not differ, while leaf nutrient content of phosphorus and nitrogen depended on the community type. We infer that AM symbioses drastically increase N. attenuata’s competitive ability in mixed communities resulting in increased fitness for the individuals harboring AM without a net gain for the community.
Effects of aminophylline therapy on urine output and kidney function in children with acute kidney injury
Authors: Nyann Beatrice I. , Nourse Peter , Masu Adelaide , Agyabeng Kofi , McCulloch Mignon I.
Published: August 2023

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication of children admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit. One key management modality of AKI is the use of diuretics to reduce fluid overload. Aminophylline, a drug that is well known for its use in the treatment of bronchial asthma, is also purported to have diuretic effects on the kidneys. This retrospective cohort study assesses the effect of aminophylline in critically ill children with AKI.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of children admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit of the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH) with AKI who received aminophylline (from 2012 to June 2018) was carried out. Data captured and analyzed included demographics, underlying disease conditions, medications, urine output, fluid balance, and kidney function.

Results

Data from thirty-four children were analyzed. Urine output increased from a median of 0.4 mls/kg/hr [IQR: 0.1, 1.1] at six hours prior to aminophylline administration to 0.6 mls/kg/hr [IQR: 0.2, 1.9] at six hours and 1.6 mls/kg/hr [IQR:0.2, 4.2] at twenty-four hours post aminophylline therapy. The median urine output significantly varied across the age groups over the 24-h time period post-aminophylline, with the most response in the neonates. There was no significant change in serum creatinine levels six hours post-aminophylline administration [109(IQR: 77, 227)—125.5(IQR: 82, 200) micromole/l] P-value = 0.135. However, there were significant age-related changes in creatinine levels at six hours post-aminophylline therapy.

Conclusions

Aminophylline increases urine output in critically ill children with AKI.

Graphical abstract
Strategic product compatibility in network industries
Authors: Buccella Domenico , Fanti Luciano , Gori Luca
Published: August 2023

This article considers a product’s compatibility as a strategic variable in a Cournot duopoly with network consumption externalities. It develops a non-cooperative compatibility decision game (CDG) in which firms choose whether to let products be (in)compatible. With costless compatibility, the unique (Pareto-efficient) sub-game perfect Nash equilibrium (SPNE) of the CDG is universal compatibility. With quasi-fixed compatibility costs, the SPNE depends on whether product compatibility is an endogenous (i.e., a profit-maximising) or exogenous (i.e., given by technical constraints) variable. In the case of endogenous compatibility, the SPNE can vary from one unique to multiple regimes of (in)compatibility, such as the anti-prisoner’s dilemma (deadlock), prisoner’s dilemma, and coordination game. In the case of exogenous compatibility, the SPNE can become an anti-coordination game as well. The article also discusses the welfare outcomes corresponding to the SPNE.
Quantitative analysis of the formation of monodisperse cello-oligomers obtained by phosphoric acid hydrolysis
Authors: Isobe Noriyuki , Ono Yuko , Nishiyama Yoshiharu , Roux Denis , Isogai Akira
Published: August 2023

Hydrolysis of cellulose in concentrated phosphoric acid is known to give two distinctive mono-disperse cello-oligomers: the degree of polymerization (DP) of 7 and 15. To understand the formation mechanism of monodisperse cello-oligomers, the transition of DP during phosphoric hydrolysis was monitored by size-exclusion chromatography combined with multiangle laser-light scattering analyses (SEC/MALLS). The obtained results suggested that not the hydrolysis at a specific length but random hydrolysis was likely. The rate of hydrolysis slowed down when the DP reached around 40, and the pool of cello-oligomers appeared at the incubation of 35 days. Then, the mono-disperse cello-oligomers were recovered from the pool of cello-oligomers by fractionation based on the solubility difference.
Cobalt-containing borate bioactive glass fibers for treatment of diabetic wound
Authors: Zhang Minhui , Yao Aihua , Ai Fanrong , Lin Jian , Fu Qingge , Wang Deping
Published: August 2023

Impaired angiogenesis is one of the predominant reasons for non-healing diabetic wounds. Cobalt is well known for its capacity to induce angiogenesis by stabilizing hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and subsequently inducing the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In this study, Co-containing borate bioactive glasses and their derived fibers were fabricated by partially replacing CaO in 1393B3 borate glass with CoO. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses were performed to characterize the effect of Co incorporation on the glass structure, and the results showed that the substitution promoted the transformation of [BO3] into [BO4] units, which endow the glass with higher chemical durability and lower reaction rate with the simulated body fluid (SBF), thereby achieving sustained and controlled Co2+ ion release. In vitro biological assays were performed to assess the angiogenic potential of the Co-containing borate glass fibers. It was found that the released Co2+ ion significantly enhanced the proliferation, migration and tube formation of the Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) by upregulating the expression of angiogenesis-related proteins such as HIF-1α and VEGF. Finally. In vivo results demonstrated that the Co-containing fibers accelerated full-thickness skin wound healing in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat model by promoting angiogenesis and re-epithelialization.

Graphical Abstract
Outcome of glioblastoma patients after intensive care unit admission with invasive mechanical ventilation: a multicenter analysis
Authors: Neumann Bernhard , Onken Julia , König Nicole , Stetefeld Henning , Luger Sebastian , Luger Anna-Luisa , Schlachetzki Felix , Linker Ralf , Hau Peter , Bumes Elisabeth
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Patients with glioblastoma are exposed to severe symptoms and organs failures (e.g., coma or acute respiratory failure), that may require intensive care unit (ICU) admission and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). However, only limited data are available concerning the prognosis of patients with glioblastoma receiving IMV. We sought to describe the reasons for ICU admission, and outcomes of patients with glioblastoma requiring IMV for unplanned critical complications.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, four certified interdisciplinary brain tumor centers performed a retrospective review of their electronic data systems. All patients with glioblastoma admitted to an in-house ICU and receiving IMV between January 2015 and December 2019 were included. Clinical and prognostic factors as well as relevant outcome parameters were evaluated by group comparisons and Kaplan Meier survival curves.

Results

We identified 33 glioblastoma patients with a duration of IMV of 9.2 ± 9.4 days. Main reasons for ICU admission were infection (n = 12; 34.3%) including 3 cases of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, status epilepticus (31.4%) and elevated intracranial pressure (22.9%). In-hospital mortality reached 60.6%. Younger age, low number of IMV days, better Karnofsky Performance Status Scale before admission and elevated intracranial pressure as cause of ICU admission were associated with positive prognostic outcome.

Conclusion

We conclude that less than 50% of patients with glioblastoma have a favorable short-term outcome when unplanned ICU treatment with IMV is required. Our data mandate a careful therapy guidance and frequent reassessment of goals during ICU stay.
DFGR: Diversity and Fairness Awareness of Group Recommendation in an Event-based Social Network
Authors: Liang Yuan
Published: August 2023

An event-based social network is a new type of social network that combines online and offline networks, and one of its important problems is recommending suitable activities to users. However, the current research seldom considers balancing the accuracy, diversity and fairness of group activity recommendations. To solve this problem, we propose a group activity recommendation approach that considers fairness and diversity perception. Firstly, we calculate activity similarity based on the context and construct an activity similarity graph. We define the weighted coverage on the similarity graph as a submodular function and transform the problem of fair and diverse group activity recommendation into maximizing the weighted coverage on the similarity graph while considering accuracy, fairness, and diversity. Secondly, we employ a greedy algorithm to find an approximate solution that maximizes the weighted coverage with an approximation ratio. Finally, we conducted experiments on two real datasets and demonstrate the superiority of our method compared to existing approaches. Specifically, in the domain of diversity-based recommendation algorithms, our method achieves a remarkable 0.02% increase in recall rate. Furthermore, in the domain of fairness-based recommendation algorithms, our proposed method outperforms the latest approach by 0.05% in terms of overall metrics. These results highlight the effectiveness of our method in achieving a better balance among accuracy, fairness, and diversity.
A deep reinforcement learning control approach for high-performance aircraft
Authors: De Marco Agostino , D’Onza Paolo Maria , Manfredi Sabato
Published: August 2023

This research introduces a flight controller for a high-performance aircraft, able to follow randomly generated sequences of waypoints, at varying altitudes, in various types of scenarios. The study assumes a publicly available six-degree-of-freedom (6-DoF) rigid aeroplane flight dynamics model of a military fighter jet. Consolidated results in artificial intelligence and deep reinforcement learning (DRL) research are used to demonstrate the capability to make certain manoeuvres AI-based fully automatic for a high-fidelity nonlinear model of a fixed-wing aircraft. This work investigates the use of a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) controller agent, based on the successful applications of the same approach to other domains. In the particular application to flight control presented here, the effort has been focused on the design of a suitable reward function used to train the agent to achieve some given navigation tasks. The trained controller is successful on highly coupled manoeuvres, including rapid sequences of turns, at both low and high flight Mach numbers, in simulations reproducing a prey–chaser dogfight scenario. Robustness to sensor noise, atmospheric disturbances, different initial flight conditions and varying reference signal shapes is also demonstrated.
On computing modified moments for half-range Hermite weights
Authors: Laudadio Teresa , Mastronardi Nicola , Dooren Paul Van
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we consider the computation of the modified moments for the system of Laguerre polynomials on the real semiaxis with the Hermite weight. These moments can be used for the computation of integrals with the Hermite weight on the real semiaxis via product rules. We propose a new computational method based on the construction of the null-space of a rectangular matrix derived from the three-term recurrence relation of the system of orthonormal Laguerre polynomials. It is shown that the proposed algorithm computes the modified moments with high relative accuracy and linear complexity. Numerical examples illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Improved Mechanical Properties of EBM Biomedical Co–28Cr–6Mo–0.11N Alloy by the Dispersed Precipitation Control of ε-HCP Phase Based on ε ↔ γ Phase Transformation
Authors: Wang Hao , Miyagi Toshimi , Chiba Akihiko
Published: August 2023

Mechanical properties of electron-beam-melted biomedical Co–Cr–Mo–N alloys can be improved by the grain refinement from reverse transform treatment, which transforms a low-temperature strong ε-phase into a high-temperature ductile γ-phase. Although mechanical properties of alloys consisting of a single ε- or γ-phase have been previously reported on, those comprising mixed ε- and γ-phases have not yet been investigated. Herein, the heat treatment conditions of the Co–28Cr–6Mo–0.11N alloy were determined to control the phase fraction while obtaining fine grains in the mixed phases with superior mechanical properties. The phase transformation behavior was analyzed. Superior mechanical properties were observed in the mixed phases containing 70 pct γ-phase and 30 pct ε-phase. The tensile and yield strengths were higher, and the elongation was approximately the same, compared to that of the single γ-phase. Moreover, the 30 pct ε-phase mixed-phase material obtained during the γ → ε heat treatment had a smaller overall average grain size and showed superior mechanical properties than that obtained during the ε → γ heat treatment. This study is expected to facilitate the application of biomedical Co–Cr–Mo–N alloys with fine grains and superior mechanical properties obtained via heat treatment.
In silico design, docking simulation, and ANN-QSAR model for predicting the anticoagulant activity of thiourea isosteviol compounds as FXa inhibitors
Authors: Gackowski Marcin , Madriwala Burhanuddin , Koba Marcin
Published: August 2023

Novel oral anticoagulants are frequently used for the pharmacotherapy of thromboembolic disorders but still have drawbacks and side effects. While numerous synthetic and semisynthetic derivatives of nontoxic isosteviol possess potential therapeutic properties, including anticoagulant activity. Besides, thiourea is recognized in medicinal chemistry research as a component of a common framework of many drugs or bioactive compounds. The present work combines molecular modeling and docking approach for searching and designing novel thiourea isosteviol-based compounds as potential FXa inhibitors. Elaborated regression model well reflects the relationships between experimentally determined anticoagulant activity and molecular descriptors and may be used for the prediction of FXa inhibitory activity of novel thiourea isosteviol compounds. Among 20 descriptors incorporated into the ANN model, 60% are 2D topological descriptors, 25% describe three-dimensional molecular structure, and remaining 15% belong to constitutional descriptors. Additionally, docking simulation confirms the prominent binding of the newly in silico designed molecules with the active sites of the protein, which may be the lead molecules and can be further optimized for the efficient pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles. Based on the results obtained, thiourea derivatives of isosteviol with 3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl, 3-fluoro-4-chlorophenyl or 4-(oxazol-5-yl)phenyl substituent may be promising FXa inhibitors. Findings reported in the present work can be used as valuable information for the development of anticoagulants.
Adrenal and periadrenal schwannoma: histological, molecular and clinical characterization of an institutional case series
Authors: Stenman Adam , Falhammar Henrik , Zedenius Jan , Juhlin C. Christofer
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Adrenal schwannoma (AS) and periadrenal schwannoma (PAS) are exceedingly rare Schwann cell tumors that develop from the adrenal medulla and periadrenal peripheral nerves respectively. The underlying genetic events are elusive.

Methods

We searched our institutional database for AS/PAS cases and reviewed the histology and clinical outcome. Comprehensive molecular work-up was performed.

Results

We found reports of 4 AS/PAS cases diagnosed between 1992 and 2022 among the 1248 adrenal lesions submitted for histopathology during the same time period (0.32%). Two patients were male, two were female, and the age span was 59–80 years. Median size was 70 mm (range 50–100 mm), and from a radiology perspective, the lesions were initially suspected of malignant lesions originating from either adrenals or kidneys. Hormonal analyses were normal in all cases. Histologically, three cases were annotated as cellular AS or PAS, and one case was annotated as microcystic AS. Molecular characterization using focused next-generation sequencing did not identify SMARCB1 or NF2 mutations, alterations previously associated to schwannoma at other anatomical sites. The postoperative period was without complications for all patients, and follow-up did not show any signs of relapse or metastatic disease.

Conclusion

AS/PAS are rare neoplasms that are most often benign, and the molecular etiology is most likely not related to mutations in established schwannoma-related genes. Since these tumors may be misinterpreted as malignant, knowledge of this entity is essential for radiologists, endocrinologists, surgeons and pathologists.
COVID-19 omicron variant outbreak in a hematopoietic stem cell transplant unit
Authors: Gilioli Andrea , Bresciani Paola , Franceschini Erica , Messerotti Andrea , Pioli Valeria , Colasante Corrado , Bettelli Francesca , Giusti Davide , Forghieri Fabio , Morselli Monica , Colaci Elisabetta , Potenza Leonardo , Gennari William , Pecorari Monica , Marasca Roberto , Candoni Anna , Mussini Cristina , Trenti Tommaso , Comoli Patrizia , Luppi Mario , Cuoghi Angela
Published: August 2023

Recommendations and guidelines for management of SARS-COV-2 infection in hematologic patients were developed in the very difficult context of dealing with novel viral variants from one pandemic wave to another, with different susceptibility to available drugs and vaccines. Moreover, the largest SARS-COV-2 case series in patients treated for hematologic malignancies, including stem cell transplant recipients, was published before the Omicron surge, and refers mainly to Alpha and Delta viral variants. These infections had very high mortality, in a period when antivirals and monoclonal antibodies were mostly unavailable. Here, we report for the first time a SARS-COV-2 Omicron variant outbreak inside a Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Unit, describing the characteristics, clinical course, and infection outcomes shortly before and shortly after myeloablative transplantation. We detail how infections were treated off-label and managed inside the BMT ward, to guarantee the best possible outcomes while avoiding risks for non-infected inpatients. The positive outcomes observed suggest that it may not be absolutely necessary to obtain SARS-CoV-2 PCR negativity before BMT in hematologic patients after treated infection, in cases with long-term PCR positivity and high-risk hematologic disease.
Policing Freedom
Authors: Jean Martine
Published: August 2023

Policing Freedom uses the case study of Brazil's first penitentiary, the Casa de Correção, to explore how the Brazilian government used incarceration and enforced labor to control the prison population during the foundational period of Brazilian state formation and postcolonial nation building. Placing this penitentiary within the global debates about the disciplinary benefits of confinement and the evolution of free labor ideology, Martine Jean illustrates how Brazil's political elites envisioned the penitentiary as a way to discipline the free working class. While participating in the debates about the inhumanity of the slave trade, philanthropists and lawmakers, both conservative and liberal, articulated a nation-building discourse that focused on reforming Brazil's vagrants into workers in anticipation of slavery's eventual demise, laying the racialized foundations for policing and incarceration in the post-emancipation period.
Mental Capacity, Dignity and the Power of International Human Rights
Authors: Duffy Julia
Published: August 2023

Personhood, in liberal philosophical and legal traditions, has long been grounded in the idea of autonomy and the right to legal capacity. However, in this book, Julia Duffy questions these assumptions and shows how such beliefs exclude and undermine the rights of adults with cognitive disability. Instead, she reinterprets the right to legal capacity through the principle of the interdependence and indivisibility of human rights. In doing so, she compellingly argues that dignity and not autonomy ought to be the basis of personhood. Using illustrative case studies, Duffy demonstrates that the key human rights values of autonomy, dignity and equality can only be achieved by fulfilling a range of interdependent human rights. With this innovative book challenging common assumptions about human rights and personhood, Duffy leads the way in ensuring civil, economic, political, social, and cultural inclusion for adults with cognitive disabilities.