bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinformatics and Experimental Insights Into miR‐182, hsa_circ_0070269, and circ‐102,166 as Therapeutic Targets for HCV‐Associated HCC
Authors: Ishaq Yasmeen , Rauff Bisma , Alzahrani Badr , Ikram Aqsa , Javed Hasnain , Abdullah Imran , Mujtaba Ghulam
Published: December 2024

Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of malignant tumor and the sixth leading cause of death worldwide. It is caused by HBV, HCV infection, and alcohol consumption. MicroRNAs are typically small, non‐coding RNAs that are involved in the regulation of mRNA expression. Recent studies revealed miRNAs' regulatory roles in liver cancer, linked to risk factors like HCV, HBV infection, alcoholism, drug use, and auto‐immune hepatic disorders. Circular RNAs also belong to the class of non‐coding RNAs; they act as ceRNAs to regulate miRNA expression and regulate different oncogenic pathways in HCC progression. This study aimed to check the hsa_circ_0070269, circ‐102,166 (hsa_circ_0004913), and miR‐182 expression in HCV induced HCC patients.

Methods

Data analysis was used to find out studies related to the role of hsa_circ_0070269, circ‐102,166, and miR‐182 in HCC; miR‐182 targeted genes, their role in different diseases; and miR‐182 interactions with hsa_circ_0070269 and circ‐102,166 in the HCC. It was revealed that the hsa_circ_0070269, circ‐102,166, and miR‐182 correlations in HCV induced HCC have not been explored yet. Therefore, to validate data from literature mining, expression analysis of dysregulated hsa_circ_0070269, circ‐102,166, and miR‐182 was performed in HCV induced HCC patients using RT‐PCR.

Results

It was found that miR‐182 was significantly upregulated and acts as an oncomiRNA in HCV induced HCC, and hsa_circ_0070269 and circ‐102,166 were downregulated in HCV induced HCC. We have identified that miR‐182 relative expression level was significantly high (p < 0.0029), while has_circ_0070269 (p < 0.002) and circ‐102,166 (p < 0.002) were significantly downregulated in HCV‐HCC patients as compared to expression in healthy individuals.

Conclusion

Our data revealed that miR‐182 acts as an oncomiRNA in HCC development. Hsa_circ_0070269 and circ‐102,166 are highly expressed in healthy controls compared to HCV induced HCC patients, can sponge miR‐182 expression by acting as tumor suppressors, and can be used as biomarkers and targets for HCC treatment.
Single‐Shot Auto‐Exposure and High Dynamic Range Imaging Based on Asynchronous Operation of Pixel Array Circuitry
Authors: Lamouaraa‐Sedlackova Yassine , Fernández‐Berni Jorge , Carmona‐Galán Ricardo
Published: December 2024

This paper introduces an image formation technique that realizes automatic adaptation to the illumination conditions during image capture. This adaptation takes place asynchronously in a single shot, requiring neither external control nor iterations on the exposure setting. These characteristics are especially suitable for applications such as visual robot navigation, where illumination may abruptly change and immediate decisions must be made. The equations that model the proposed technique show exposure‐time independence. Moreover, each pixel adapts itself according to the ratio between local and global illuminations. The dependence on this ratio—which is a relative rather than absolute magnitude—along with the aforementioned independence on exposure time means that, theoretically, any illumination scenario can be represented within an arbitrary signal range. We also address the CMOS implementation of this technique. An extensive set of electrical simulations confirms its auto‐exposure and high‐dynamic‐range encoding capabilities. In particular, we simulated the capture of a 118‐dB scene on a ‐px array over five orders of magnitude of ambient illumination. Corner and mismatch simulations reveal strong robustness of the proposed circuitry against fabrication non‐idealities. Finally, although we aim to applications in which large image resolution is not a critical specification, strategies to minimize the impact of the required focal‐plane circuit elements on the pixel pitch are examined.
Research on transparency of coal mine geological conditions based on distributed fiber‐optic sensing technology
Authors: Piao Chunde , Yin Yanzhu , He Zhihao , Du Wenchi , Wei Guangqing
Published: December 2024

Coal mining induces changes in the nature of rock and soil bodies, as well as hydrogeological conditions, which can easily trigger the occurrence of geological disasters such as water inrush, movement of the coal seam roof and floor, and rock burst. Transparency in coal mine geological conditions provides technical support for intelligent coal mining and geological disaster prevention. In this sense, it is of great significance to address the requirements for informatizing coal mine geological conditions, dynamically adjust sensing parameters, and accurately identify disaster characteristics so as to prevent and control coal mine geological disasters. This paper examines the various action fields associated with geological disasters in mining faces and scrutinizes the types and sensing parameters of geological disasters resulting from coal seam mining. On this basis, it summarizes a distributed fiber‐optic sensing technology framework for transparent geology in coal mines. Combined with the multi‐field monitoring characteristics of the strain field, the temperature field, and the vibration field of distributed optical fiber sensing technology, parameters such as the strain increment ratio, the aquifer temperature gradient, and the acoustic wave amplitude are extracted as eigenvalues for identifying rock breaking, aquifer water level, and water cut range, and a multi‐field sensing method is established for identifying the characteristics of mining‐induced rock mass disasters. The development direction of transparent geology based on optical fiber sensing technology is proposed in terms of the aspects of sensing optical fiber structure for large deformation monitoring, identification accuracy of optical fiber acoustic signals, multi‐parameter monitoring, and early warning methods.
MOF‐Derived Mn/N‐Codoped Porous Carbon Enables Efficient and Rapid Oxidation of HMF to FDCA
Authors: Wang Peng , Gu Jun‐Fei , Chen Zhan , Ma Hao‐Yue , Li Xing‐Chuan , Li Shuai , Xu Xiang‐Ya , Yuan Ye , Chen Cheng , Kou Zongkui
Published: December 2024

Transforming the bio‐based 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) into its oxidation product 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) offers an attractive route for synthesizing bioplastic monomers. However, significant challenges remain in developing efficient and stable non‐precious metal catalysts. Here, we employed a solid‐state thermal synthesis (SST) method to design and synthesize a series of metal‐organic framework (MOF)‐derived metal‐nitrogen‐carbon (M@NC) materials with gradient metal contents and low metal loadings, labeled as Mnx@NC, for converting HMF into FDCA through oxidation. Further investigations revealed that the amount of metal doping significantly influenced the catalyst structure, particularly in terms of defect quantity and specific surface area. The optimal catalyst, Mn2.5@NC, exhibited the largest specific surface area and the highest number of defects, achieving a 94 % FDCA yield within 4 h. Experimental results demonstrated that the recovered catalyst could be reintroduced into the reaction system and maintained selectivity comparable to that of the fresh catalyst for at least five cycles. Moreover, various characterizations of both fresh and recovered catalysts confirmed the great stability of Mn2.5@NC. This study provides advanced insights into the effective catalytic conversion of HMF to FDCA and highlights the importance of structural design and regulation in optimizing M@NC catalysts.
Experimental Study on Seismic Behavior of a New Separately‐Anchored Self‐Centering Beam‐Column Connection
Authors: Li Lu‐Xi , Li Chao , Hao Hong
Published: December 2024

Post‐tensioned self‐centering (PTSC) structures that use PT tendons to assemble precast members and provide structural resistance have demonstrated superior seismic performance and self‐centering capacity. Current PTSC frames generally serially connect all beams in a floor. This assembly method would induce interferences among different spans and increase the risk of progressive failure once local damage occurs in a bay. This paper proposes a new type of PTSC joint to avoid such serial connection of beams. By employing steel beams to serve as the anchorages of PT tendons, each bay of the frame is separately prestressed. The composite prestressed beams can be readily fixed to columns by high‐strength bolts, hence facilitating the construction of such separately‐anchored self‐centering (SASC) frame building. External friction dampers are installed to enhance the energy dissipation capacity of SASC connections. Eight full‐scale cyclic loading tests are performed to compare the performance of the new SASC connections with conventional PTSC joints and also comprehensively evaluate the seismic behavior of SASC connections with different parameters. The test results validate the excellent damage mitigation abilities of both types of connections while the superior mechanical performance of the new SASC connections. In addition, the effects of key design parameters such as initial prestress level, damper force, and tendon number on the seismic behavior of the SASC connection are evaluated, and design recommendations for the application of the proposed precast beam‐column connection are also provided.
Fraught Expectations: A Fairness Heuristic Process Model of the Pros and Cons of CSR for Talent Acquisition
Authors: Kay Adam A. , Vlachos Pavlos A. , Tasoulis Konstantinos , Farndale Elaine
Published: December 2024

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is purely an asset when it comes to talent acquisition: that is the dominant narrative among Human Resource Management (HRM) practitioners and scholars alike. Growing evidence, however, gives reason to question this assumption. Accordingly, in this conceptual paper, we develop a process model to articulate both the pros and cons of CSR for recruitment. Using fairness heuristic theory as a central organizing framework, we integrate three theoretical perspectives into the HRM and micro‐CSR literatures. First, we leverage dual‐processing attribution theory to propose that job seekers process information about CSR through both heuristic and deliberative processes, leading them to attribute employer CSR to substantive or symbolic motives. We explain how CSR attributions represent a fairness heuristic, meaning a proxy for how trustworthy job seekers appraise an employer to be. Second, invoking expectancy violation theory, we propose that the more job seekers attribute employer CSR to substantive (symbolic) motives, the higher (lower) their justice expectations will be, thereby increasing (decreasing) the consequences to employers for violating those expectations. Third, expanding scholarship on the dynamic nature of organizational fairness perceptions, we propose that job seekers update their attributions of employer CSR in a recursive cycle that can improve, but tends to degrade, as the recruitment process unfolds—particularly if they have high expectations to begin with. In so doing, we nudge the talent acquisition literature beyond static, fixed‐in‐time accounts to a more representative description of the dynamic and dual‐sided role of CSR in recruitment over time.
Effect of Magnetic Field and Slip Conditions on Flow in a Rotating Porous Channel With Viscous Dissipation
Authors: Verma Vineet Kumar , Ansari Abdul Faiz
Published: December 2024

This study examines the steady flow of an electrically conducting fluid through a rotating porous channel bounded by stationary, impermeable horizontal plates at constant temperature. The primary aim is to explore the combined effects of a magnetic field, wall slip conditions, and viscous dissipation. The channel rotates at a constant angular velocity, with slip conditions applied at the walls. A pressure gradient drives the primary flow, while rotation generates the secondary flow. Analytical solutions for velocity profiles and volumetric flow rates are obtained, and the temperature distribution is calculated using MATLAB's “bvp4c” function. The research offers novel insights into the behavior of primary and secondary flow velocities under different Hartmann and Taylor numbers, emphasizing the impact of slip conditions. Additionally, the influence of the Eckert number on temperature is analyzed in conjunction with these parameters. These findings contribute valuable theoretical perspectives for enhancing cooling systems in rotating machinery using conductive fluids in porous channels. This study opens avenues for future research to investigate unsteady flow conditions and the effects of variable magnetic fields and rotational speeds on fluid behavior in rotating porous channels.
Modulation of the central nervous system immune response and neuroinflammation via Wnt signaling in health and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Fang Kevin
Published: December 2024

The immune response in the central nervous system (CNS) is a highly specialized and tightly regulated process essential for maintaining neural health and protecting against pathogens and injuries. The primary immune cells within the CNS include microglia, astrocytes, T cells, and B cells. They work together, continuously monitor the CNS environment for signs of infection, injury, or disease, and respond by phagocytosing debris, releasing cytokines, and recruiting other immune cells. In addition to providing neuroprotection, these immune responses must be carefully balanced to prevent excessive inflammation that can lead to neuronal damage and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. Dysregulated immune responses in the CNS are implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Wnt signaling is a crucial pathway in the CNS that regulates various cellular processes critical for brain development, function, and maintenance. Despite enhancing immune responses in the health CNS, dysregulated Wnt signaling exacerbates neuroinflammation in the neurodegenerative brains. This review summarized the role of Wnt signaling in regulating immune response under different conditions. We then examined the role of immune response in healthy brains and during the development of neurodegenerative diseases. We also discussed therapeutic intervention in various neurodegenerative diseases through the modulation of the Wnt signaling pathway and neuroinflammation and highlighted challenges and limitations in current clinical trials.
ESG rating, corporate dividends policy, and the moderating role of corporate life cycle: Cross country study
Authors: Ananzeh Husam , Khalifeh Amin , Alqudah Hamza , Al‐Ababneh Hassan Ali , Al Amosh Hamzeh
Published: December 2024

This article investigates the link between environmental, social, and governance performance (ESG) and dividend policy, as well as how likely the corporate life cycle might moderate this association. Using cross‐country data from 2010 to 2020, the findings of this study reveal that ESG has a favorable influence on corporate dividend payments as measured by dividend payout ratio, dividend yield, and dichotomous variable. This conclusion holds true when the three ESG pillars are examined independently on dividend policy measurements. Furthermore, this analysis reveals that the firm's life cycle stage moderates the association between ESG and corporate dividend policy, exhibiting a negative moderating impact. This study specifically reveals that the relationship between ESG and dividends is stronger for firms in the early stages of their life cycle than for those in the mature stages. This relationship applies to firms operating in developed economies compared to developing economies. The study findings particularly highlight the dynamic nature of the link between ESG and dividends, underlining that this relationship is dependent on the stage of a company's life cycle. Understanding this relationship may assist stakeholders, such as investors and management, in making educated decisions about dividend expectations and sustainable practices depending on the life cycle of a firm.
Zingerone Facilitates Apoptosis in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells by Inducing Autophagy
Authors: Cao Xia , Chen Chien‐Wei , Yin Kai , Wang Tzong‐Luen , Huang Yao‐Kuang , Chen Pang‐Yen , Su Po‐Hua
Published: December 2024

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by high heterogenicity and aggressiveness and autophagy plays a complicated role in cancer development. Zingerone is reported to possess multiple pharmacological activities, including antitumors. This study explored the biological role and the relevant mechanisms of zingerone in TNBC. Following zingerone treatment, the viability of normal breast cancer cells MCF‐10A and TNBC cells (MDA‐MB‐231 and MDA‐MB‐468) was detected with CCK‐8 assay. The proliferation, migration and invasion of TNBC cells were detected with colony formation, wound healing, and transwell assays. Western blot was used to detect the expressions of migration‐, apoptosis‐ and autophagy‐related proteins. Flow cytometry was used to detect the cell apoptotic level and immunofluorescence assay measured the autophagy. The experimental data revealed that zingerone with varying concentrations suppressed cell viability, proliferation, migration and invasion while promoting the apoptosis in TNBC, which might be mediated by autophagy activation. Besides, zingerone decreased HDAC1 expression in TNBC cells and regulated autophagy via HDAC1. Collectively, zingerone impeded the malignant progression of TNBC via inducing HDAC1‐mediated autophagy.
Multitask learning for automatic detection of meniscal injury on 3D knee MRI
Authors: Wang Yufan , Ying Mengjie , Yang Yangyang , Chen Yankai , Wang Haoyuan , Tsai Tsung‐Yuan , Liu Xudong
Published: December 2024

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the knee is the recommended diagnostic method before invasive arthroscopy surgery. Nevertheless, interpreting knee MRI scans is a time‐consuming process that is vulnerable to inaccuracies and inconsistencies. We proposed a multitask learning network MCSNetatt which efficiently introduces segmentation prior features and enhances classification results through multiscale feature fusion and spatial attention modules. The MRI studies and subsequent arthroscopic diagnosis of 259 knees were collected retrospectively. Models were trained based on multitask loss with coronal and sagittal sequences and fused using logistic regression (LR). We visualized the network's interpretability by the gradient‐weighted class activation mapping method. The LR model achieved higher area under the curve and mean average precision of medial and lateral menisci than models trained on a single sagittal or coronal sequence. Our multitask model MCSNetat outperformed the single‐task model CNet and two clinicians in classification, with accuracy, precision, recall, F1‐score of 0.980, 1.000, 0.952, 0.976 for medial and 0.920, 0.905, 0.905, 0.905 for the lateral, respectively. With the assistance of model results and visualized saliency maps, both clinicians showed improvement in their diagnostic performance. Compared to the baseline segmentation model, our model improved dice similarity coefficient and the 95% Hausdorff distance (HD95) of the lateral meniscus for 2.3% and 0.860 mm in coronal images and 4.4% and 2.253 mm in sagittal images. Our multitask learning network quickly generated accurate clinicopathological classification and segmentation of knee MRI, demonstrating its potential to assist doctors in a clinical setting.
Highly Efficient Novel Garnet‐Structured Yellow Emitting Phosphor for High Power Laser‐Driven Lighting
Authors: Duan Jiarui , Bai Chen , Sun Jiacheng , Wang Deyin , Wang Yuhua
Published: December 2024

A novel blue light excitable yellow emitting phosphor, BaLu2(Mg0.6Al2.8Si1.6)O12:Ce3+, with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 66.2%, is developed by substituting Al3+‐Al3+ pairs in BaLu2Al4SiO12:Ce3+ with Mg2+‐Si4+ pairs. Alongside the redshift of Ce3+ emission, this substitution also broadened Ce3+ emission and reduced its thermal stability. The spectral changes are found to result from variations in the local crystal field and site symmetry of Ce3+ due to Mg2+‐Si4+ substitution. To assess the feasibility of the newly developed yellow‐emitting phosphor for high‐power laser lighting, it is constructed into a phosphor wheel. Owing to the efficient heat dissipation via high speed rotation of phosphor wheel, the yellow phosphor exhibit a luminous flux of 3894 lm and shows no obvious emission saturation even excited by blue laser light with a power density of 90.7 W mm−2. Exciting the yellow phosphor wheel with a blue laser diode (LDs) at a power density of 25.2 W mm−2 resulted in bright white light with a luminous of 1718.1 lm, a correlated color temperature of 5983 K, a color rendering index of 65.0, and chromatic coordinates of (0.3203, 0.3631). These results suggest that the newly synthesized yellow‐emitting phosphor holds significant potential for high‐power laser‐driven lighting applications.
Wogonin Inhibits Ovarian Cancer by Activating the AMPK‐TET2‐5hmC Axis
Authors: Yang Shu‐Yi , Jhang Jing‐Siang , Huang Wen‐Long , Tsai Leah H. J. , Tsai Min‐Chia , Chan Chin‐Pui , Lin Ru‐Inn , Lin Hon‐Yi , Li Chin , Yeh Chia‐Chou , Chan Michael W. Y.
Published: December 2024

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common gynecologic cancers. In the quest for effective anti‐cancer agents, this study explores the effects of wogonin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, on the viability and migration of A2780 and Kuramochi ovarian cancer cells. A2780 and Kuramochi human ovarian cancer cell lines were utilized. Cytotoxicity and migration were evaluated using the CCK8 assay and the wound‐healing assay, respectively. The effect of wogonin on the growth of A2780 ovarian cancer cells in vivo was assessed using a nude mouse model. The phosphorylation and half‐life of AMPK were determined by western blot analysis. The level of 5hmC was assessed using dot blot analysis. The impact of wogonin on gene expression was examined through RNA‐Seq. Our results show that wogonin not only impedes cancer cell growth and mobility both in vitro and in vivo but also significantly increases the cytotoxicity of cisplatin. Investigations of the mechanism underlying these effects reveal that wogonin suppresses genes associated with cell proliferation and the EMT and upregulates metabolic pathways, particularly the AMPK signaling pathway, which is crucial for increasing 5hmC levels. These results indicate that wogonin promotes DNA demethylation by stabilizing TET2. In conclusion, our findings highlight not only the therapeutic potential of wogonin but also its preventative capability against ovarian cancer in individuals with metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, who are at increased risk of ovarian cancer.
Erfahrungsbericht: Laborjournal digital
Authors: Bender Theo
Published: December 2024

Um die Zettelwirtschaft einzudämmen, hat die Universität Würzburg ein elektronisches Laborjournal für die ganze Hochschule eingeführt. Wie das gelungen ist und was das bringt, erzählen ein Masterstudent, ein Professor und zwei IT‐Kräfte der Universität.
Comparison of mechanical and physical behaviors of carbon/basalt/epoxy hybrid composite rod with carbon/glass/epoxy hybrid composite rod used in ACCC conductor core
Authors: Parvizi Pooya , Jalilian Milad , Dearn Karl D.
Published: December 2024

The demand for increased distribution capacity in transmission lines has led to the growing use of hybrid composite rods as the reinforcing core of Aluminum Conductor Composite Core overhead conductors, known as ACCC. These rods usually consist of a carbon fiber‐reinforced epoxy matrix composite core surrounded by an outer shell made of a glass fiber‐reinforced epoxy matrix composite. The outer shell composite can be reinforced with basalt fibers, which are being used more frequently due to their favorable properties. In this research, mechanical properties such as flexural strength, physical properties including density and electrical resistance, and thermal behavior of carbon/basalt/epoxy (CBE) and also carbon/glass/epoxy (CGE) hybrid composite rods fabricated by the pultrusion process have been investigated. The CBE composite exhibited approximately 4% higher mean flexural strength than CGE. Additionally, the CBE composite showed higher thermal stability, as indicated by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The CGE composite has about 4% higher density than the CGE composite, leading to higher mass per unit length of the resultant ACCC conductor. Finally, the fracture surfaces of hybrid composite rods have been studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate the better mechanical and thermal properties of carbon/basalt/epoxy hybrid composite rods.

Highlights

Growing use of hybrid composite rods in ACCC overhead conductors.

Hybrid composite rods have a carbon fiber core and glass‐reinforced outer shell.

Basalt fibers increasingly used to reinforce the outer shell composite.

Pultrusion process used for producing the hybrid composite rods.

Fracture surfaces of hybrid composite rods studied using SEM.
A multicenter, single‐group, open feasibility study of a new individual cognitive behavioral therapy program for adult Japanese patients with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder: Study protocol
Authors: Takamatsu Naoki , Nakashima Misuzu , Matsuura Kei , Umemoto Ikue , Ito Masaya , Kanazawa Junichiro , Tomiyama Hirofumi , Kondo Masaki , Tachimori Hisateru , Nakao Tomohiro , Horikoshi Masaru , Kuga Hironori
Published: December 2024

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, including executive function, emotional regulation, and motivation, can persist into adulthood and are often associated with mental illnesses. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may help ADHD adults in Japan, but the lack of studies and the variability in group CBT approaches make its effects unclear. Japan lacks unified CBT programs and adult ADHD guidelines, making it difficult to implement international individual CBT recommendations due to cultural differences. This study will assess the feasibility of a novel CBT program for Japanese adult ADHD patients.

Methods

This feasibility study will be open, nonrandomized, single‐arm, multicenter study. Twelve ADHD patients aged 20–65 years who are currently receiving treatment will be included based on Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale (CAARS) clinical severity threshold. An intervention phase of 12–16 weeks and a 12‐week follow‐up will total 24–28 weeks for all participants. The intervention will use a new CBT program tailored to individual assessments.

Results

The primary objective is to determine feasibility using dropout rates, adverse events, and CAARS score changes between Weeks 1 and 16. The secondary outcomes will assess long‐term effects of treatment beyond the intervention period and provide descriptive statistics on sex, depression, quality of life, and autistic scores in relation to the intervention outcomes. The full analysis set and per protocol set will be used for statistical analysis.

Conclusions

This study is essential for the development of CBT interventions in accordance with Japan's healthcare system that are tailored to the unique needs of its population.
Adding Oscillometry and Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide to Guidelines Potentially Enhances Identification of Exacerbation Risk Factors in Asthmatic Children
Authors: Galant Stanley P. , Morphew Tricia
Published: December 2024

Background

A possible explanation for the continued risk of asthma exacerbations while utilizing current asthma guideline‐based management is the failure to consider small airway dysfunction (SAD) and eosinophilic airway inflammation in assuming asthma‐controlled status.

Objective

To construct a practical algorithm that potentially identifies additional risks of not well‐controlled (NWC) asthma and exacerbations beyond guideline criteria with oscillometry and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) determination.

Methods

This was a retrospective, posthoc analysis of 183 children, ages 4–18 years, with moderate‐to‐severe asthma, characterized by demographic factors, National Health Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) determined asthma‐controlled status, therapy step, and lung function status. Impulse oscillometry (IOS) and FENO were performed before spirometry. Abnormal lung function values were determined for spirometry, SAD, and FENO based on established thresholds. Statistical analysis included a decision tree and Venn diagram.

Results

For 53 patients with guideline‐based NWC, 15 (28.3%) had an FEV1 ≤ 80% predicted. An additional 30 patients (56.6%) had abnormal SAD and/or FENO with a preserved FEV1. Of 130 patients, well‐controlled (WC) by guidelines 76 (58.5%) exhibited SAD and/or abnormal FENO.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that over 50% of WC patients with moderate‐to‐severe asthma, with few symptoms and preserved FEV1, had SAD and/or abnormal FENO levels, suggesting the potential of early phenotype‐specific therapy to prevent risk of future exacerbations.
Prevalence and Distribution of Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Cystic Fibrosis and Impacts on Daily Life
Authors: Clarke Elizabeth , Taylor Julia , Watson Pippa , Freeston Jane , Jones Andrew , Peckham Daniel , Horsley Alex
Published: December 2024

Background

Musculoskeletal problems are reported in the literature as a common problem for people with cystic fibrosis, with a range of aetiologies including an inflammatory arthritis. However, accurate data on the presentations and prevalence are lacking. The aim of this cohort study was to describe the scale and impact of musculoskeletal symptoms in CF.

Methods

A collaboratively designed questionnaire was administered to adults attending two large UK CF centres. Data collected evaluated scale and impact of musculoskeletal symptoms.

Results

Results were obtained from 489 patients (response rate 59%). Of these, 49% reported that musculoskeletal symptoms impacted their activities of daily living in the previous year. Back pain was common, occurring in 44% of participants in the preceding week. The knee was the most commonly affected painful peripheral joint, with 26% of participants reporting knee pain within the last week rising to 50% within the last year. Early morning stiffness and joint swelling were markedly less common, suggesting that the majority of musculoskeletal pain in CF is not due to an inflammatory arthritis but is due to other factors.

Conclusion

Musculoskeletal problems are common in CF and frequently affect activities of daily living. Symptoms of inflammatory arthritis occurred in only a small minority of individuals. A focused approach to characterising and clarifying the aetiology of musculoskeletal symptoms is needed to inform the management of these disabling symptoms.
Creation of Gas‐Phase Organo‐Uranium Species by Removal of “yl” Oxo Ligands From UO22+ Carboxylate Precursor Ions
Authors: Lenze Samuel J. , Terhorst Justin , Ihabi Amina , Corcovilos Theodore , van Stipdonk Michael J.
Published: December 2024

Rationale

These experiments were conducted to measure the diversity of organo‐U (IV) and U (III) ions created using multiple‐stage tandem MS and collision‐induced dissociation of halogen‐substituted UVIO2‐phenide complexes [UO2(C6H3FX)]+, X = Cl, Br, or I.

Methods

Samples of UO2(O2C‐C6H3FX)2 were prepared by digesting UO3 with appropriate halogen‐substituted carboxylic acids in deionized water. Solutions for ESI were created by diluting the digested sample in 50:50 H2O/CH3OH. Precursor ions for multiple‐stage tandem MS were generated by electrospray ionization (ESI). Multiple‐stage collision‐induced dissociation (He collision gas) in a linear quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer was used to prepare species such as [UIVFX(C≡CH)]+ and UIIIF(C≡CH)]+ for subsequent study of ion‐molecule reactions with adventitious neutrals in the ion trap.

Results

Multiple‐stage CID of the [UO2(C6H3FX)]+, X = Cl, Br, or I, complexes caused removal of both “yl” oxo ligands from of the UO22+ moiety to create ions such as [UIVFX(C≡CH)]+ and [UIIIFX]+. For [UIVFXC≡CH]+ and [UIIIFC≡CH]+ products, hydrolysis to generate [UIVFX (OH)]+ and [UIIIF (OH)]+, with concomitant loss of HC≡CH, was observed. CID of [UO2(C6H3FBr)]+ and [UO2(C6H3FI)]+ caused reductive elimination of the respective halogen radicals to generate interesting organo‐U (III) species such as [UIIIF(C≡CH)]+ and [UIIIC2]+.

Conclusions

The use of “preparative” tandem mass spectrometry and a suite of halogen substituted benzoic acid ligands can be used to remove both oxo ligands of UO22+ and generate a group of homologous organo‐U (IV) and organo‐U (III) ions for studies of intrinsic reactivity.
Assessment of Serum Metabolism and Eicosanoid Profiling in Pediatric Asthma and Bronchiolitis via Liquid Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Gao Xiao‐huan , Yin Tian‐lu , Li Yan , Shi Su‐fang , Liu Feng‐li , Li Miao‐jing , Liu Rui‐xin , Liu Qing , Xu Yan‐li
Published: December 2024

Background

Asthma, a prevalent chronic inflammatory respiratory disease among children, was the focus of this study. Serum metabolism profiles were examined in patients diagnosed with both asthma and bronchiolitis by using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry.

Methods

In this study, the serum samples from three distinct groups—comprising patients diagnosed with asthma, bronchiolitis, and a healthy control group—underwent comprehensive non‐targeted metabolomics analysis and targeted eicosanoid profiling.

Results

Through both univariate and multivariate analyses, significant associations were observed between the pathophysiology of both asthma and bronchiolitis and aberrations in the metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids, amino acids, purines, and pathways involving cyclooxygenases and lipoxygenases, indicative of inflammatory processes and immune responses. Furthermore, metabolic changes in phosphatidylethanolamine, saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, and bile acids were observed in the asthma group. Bronchiolitis was distinguished by disruptions in acyl carnitine and phosphatidylcholine metabolism.

Conclusion

This study offers a new perspective on understanding the interplay of pathogenic mechanisms underlying both asthma and bronchiolitis. Its findings are significant for enhancing the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies tailored to asthma stemming from bronchiolitis.
Assessment of Physicochemical Properties and Consumer Preferences in Cherry Tomato Cultivars Observe under Growing Climates and Watering Regimens
Authors: Kusumiyati Kusumiyati , Ahmad Farhan , Soleh Mochamad Arief , Khan Muhammad Rabnawaz
Published: December 2024

The physicochemical and antioxidant qualities of cherry tomatoes are getting more and more valued, and this has a significant effect on consumer choices and market dynamics. With irrigation schedules of 100%, 75%, and 50% field capacity, Ruby and Fortesa cultivars were grown in a greenhouse, rain shelter, and screen house climates in this experiment, which used a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) factorial technique. The chroma value, flavonoid content, phenolic content, vitamin C content, and antioxidant activity of cherry tomatoes are the main quality parameters investigated in this study, along with the effects of cultivars, growing climates, and watering regimens. According to the results, the cultivar significantly affected chroma value, with Fortesa showing the highest value. Cultivar and growing climate significantly affected flavonoid content, with Fortesa and rain shelter environments exhibiting the most significant values. Cultivar and growing climate significantly impacted vitamin C content; ruby and greenhouse conditions produced the maximum amounts. Across all parameters, there were significant variances in antioxidant activity; Ruby showed the maximum activity, and the rain shelter provided the ideal growing environment. The market analysis conducted for the study reveals that higher‐quality cherry tomatoes are famous among upscale and health‐conscious consumers due to their high flavonoid and phenolic content, brilliant chroma value, and considerable antioxidant activity. With the help of this research, targeted cultivation techniques and marketing strategies may be created to cater to specific consumer desires and maximize market positioning and profitability.
Cognitive Biases in Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Authors: Dubash Faisal , Affleck Andrew , O’Reilly Marese , Gross Kenneth G.
Published: December 2024

Mohs surgeons' fallibility is an important topic to explore. There are no studies on the role of cognitive biases in heuristic decision-making within Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) as a contributing factor in mistakes or errors of clinical judgement. We reviewed established cognitive biases applied to heuristics during the pre-operative, intraoperative and reconstruction stages of MMS, and recommend conscious cognitive bias mitigating strategies for Mohs surgeons. Clinical errors/incidents may be reframed as opportunities to learn and develop, rather than evidence of competency or status. These experiences offer the opportunity to sharpen skills within metacognition and allow for more cognizant Mohs surgeons. We highly recommend all Mohs surgeons develop in-depth knowledge and maintain awareness of cognitive biases throughout clinical practice, to enhance clinical performance.
High‐Performance Broad‐Spectrum UV Photodetectors with Uniform Response: Engineering β‐Ga2O3:Si/GaN:Si Heterojunctions via Thermal Oxidation for Optoelectronic Logic Gate and Multispectral Imaging
Authors: Jiang Jili , Luo Jiangshuai , Ding Ke , Tang Yan , Zhang Hong , Ye Lijuan , Pang Di , Li Honglin , Li Wanjun
Published: December 2024

Developing high‐performance, broad‐spectrum ultraviolet photodetectors (PDs) with uniform response is crucial for optoelectronic applications like spectral analysis, optoelectronic logic gates, and multispectral imaging. This study constructs n‐n type β‐Ga2O3:Si/GaN:Si heterojunction PDs using thermal oxidation, combining the advantages of β‐Ga2O3:Si and GaN:Si for excellent broad‐spectrum response (UV‐A to UV‐C). A proposed channel model for GaN:Si oxidation includes hole formation, vortex structure development, channel formation, and grain growth, providing a basis for understanding β‐Ga2O3:Si/GaN:Si heterojunction formation. Uniform Si doping in the β‐Ga2O3 layer, achieved through thermal oxidation, reduces resistivity, enhances the collection of photogenerated carriers from the underlying GaN layer, and hence enhances broad‐spectrum response performance. The devices exhibit outstanding uniformity and sensitivity across the UV‐A to UV‐C range, with a peak responsivity of 2.44 × 104 A W−1 and a photocurrent‐to‐dark current ratio of 1.3 × 105. Applications include optoelectronic logic gates executing “OR gate” and “AND gate” logic operations with 254 and 365 nm UV light, and a single‐pixel multispectral imaging system producing high‐contrast, clear “CNU” images with 254, 295, and 365 nm UV light. This research advances the understanding of oxide heterojunction formation and offers a method for developing high‐performance, uniformly responsive broad‐spectrum UV photodetectors for optoelectronic applications.
Facile Preparation of Polymerizable Deep Eutectic Solvents Under Mild Conditions for Multisensory Ionic Skins
Authors: Pi Menghan , Wu Honglin , Li Wenhao , Shen Huanwei , Li Min , Cui Wei , Ran Rong
Published: December 2024

Polymerizable deep eutectic solvents (PDESs) have emerged as promising building blocks for next‐generation eutectic gels, offering new opportunities for the development of advanced electronic devices. Traditional PDES fabrication typically involves heating and extended processing time. In this study, a facile method where a solid‐solid mixture of lithium bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonimide (LiTFSI) and acrylamide (AAm) rapidly forms a PDES at room temperature, significantly simplifying the ionogel preparation is presented. By combining this PDES with another system, comprising 3‐[dimethyl‐[2‐(2‐methylprop‐2‐enoyloxy)ethyl]azaniumyl]propane‐1‐sulfonate (SBMA) and ethylene glycol (EG), an eutectic gel is successfully fabricated with exceptional mechanical and conductive properties. This gel exhibits a fracture stress of 0.8 MPa, fracture energy of 3.7 kJ m−2, adhesion strength of 60 kPa, transmittance over 90%, high conductivity (0.113 S m−1), and an outstanding temperature tolerance ranged from ‐50 to 50 °C. Notably, the absence of chemical crosslinkers and the presence of reversible interactions such as hydrogen bonding and ion‐dipole electrostatic forces impart excellent self‐healing capabilities. These combined features position the gel a promising candidate for multisensory ionic skins, capable of detecting pressure, temperature, humidity, and sweat. This work pioneers the rapid, mild‐condition synthesis of PDESs, paving the way for new techniques in ionic skin development.
Use of prenatal ultrasound findings to predict postnatal outcome in fetuses with lower urinary tract obstruction
Authors: Richter J. , Shinar S. , Erdman L. , Good H. , Kim J. K. , Dos Santos J. , Khondker A. , Chua M. , Van Mieghem T. , Lorenzo A. J. , Rickard M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) is a chronic condition with a spectrum of outcomes. It is usually suspected prenatally based on ultrasound features (USFs). Given the unknown postnatal trajectory and the potential for significant morbidity and mortality, many families choose termination of pregnancy (TOP), often based on USFs alone. Herein, we sought to develop a tool that can be used to predict postnatal outcome based on combinations of USFs, which can aid prenatal counseling and parental decision‐making.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of cases with suspected fetal LUTO that were seen at a high‐risk fetal center and a tertiary pediatric center in Canada. Data were collected on USFs, prenatal/postnatal death and postnatal need for transplantation and/or dialysis. USFs from pregnancies with a gestational age of 13–26 weeks on initial ultrasound at the high‐risk fetal center that underwent TOP were collected and matched to fetuses with comparable prenatal USFs that were not terminated, which had a known postnatal outcome, to build a random forest model. The random forest model was fitted for each outcome (death, dialysis or transplantation) and tested for accuracy using leave‐one‐out cross‐validation. Each predictor was assessed independently with combined importance when accounting for other predictors. The model was used to predict the most likely postnatal outcomes for cases of TOP had the pregnancy been continued.

Results

USF data from 85 cases of TOP and 125 cases of expectantly managed pregnancy with prenatally suspected LUTO were retrieved. For expectantly managed cases, there was a median follow‐up duration of 5.7 (interquartile range, 0.2–14.5) years among the liveborn infants. There were 14 prenatal and 22 postnatal deaths in the expectantly managed cohort. The random forest model demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy for transplantation (77% accuracy, 50% sensitivity, 80% specificity), followed by death (72% accuracy, 83% sensitivity, 67% specificity) and dialysis (71% accuracy, 70% sensitivity, 71% specificity). For the TOP cohort, had the pregnancies been continued, the model predicted transplantation and dialysis in 21/85 (25%) and 37/85 (44%) cases, respectively; pre‐ or postnatal death was predicted in 69/85 (81%) cases.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that it is possible to predict death and postnatal transplantation and/or dialysis from USFs in fetuses with suspected LUTO with acceptable accuracy. Predictive accuracy will improve with continued follow‐up of more patients, enabling more personalized prenatal counseling and more informed decision‐making for families. © 2024 The Author(s). Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Outcomes of 584 cattle caesarean sections performed in a UK first opinion practice
Authors: Giles Lucy , Bain Charlotte , Nabb Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

Background

This retrospective cohort study evaluated 584 cattle caesarean sections (C‐sections) performed at a first opinion practice in Southwest England between 2015 and 2021.

Methods

Outcomes were recorded contemporaneously, and procedures were followed up after 14 days.

Results

Thirty‐one dams died within 14 days of undergoing a C‐section (94.7% survival rate). Dam parity and purpose did not significantly impact mortality. Dams were at 2.7 times greater odds of dying within 14 days if they delivered a stillborn calf (p < 0.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20‒6.13), and at 2.9 times greater odds of dying within 14 days if they were recumbent for some, or all, of the C‐section (p < 0.05, 95% CI = 1.02‒8.2). Among the 428 procedures where calf outcomes were recorded, 32.9% (n = 141) were stillborn, reflecting previous studies reporting perinatal mortality. Uterine torsion was anecdotally listed as the reason for operating in 34 cases, and 58.1% (n = 18) of these C‐sections resulted in a dead calf.

Limitations

Despite the large number of cases studied, all C‐sections were carried out by a single veterinary practice. Individual operator(s) and farms were not recorded and could be undetected confounding variables.

Conclusion

This study's results provide much needed relevant benchmarking for completing in‐house practice audit cycles, ensuring improved clinical governance and outcomes.
Preparation of bio‐based polyamide 56/chitosan heavy metal adsorbing nanocomposite fibers by electrospinning
Authors: Xu Yuhan , Wang Jinheng , Zhang Chenyan , Wang Jikui , Guo Weihong
Published: December 2024

Electrospinning technology can produce nanofibers with extremely high specific surface area. Bio‐based polyamide 56 (PA56) was combined with chitosan (CS) to prepare PA56/CS composite nanofibers. An in vitro mineralization experiment was conducted to obtain a super hydrophilic composite fiber (PA56/CS‐HAP) with hydroxyapatite deposited on the surface. The adsorption performance of the composite fiber (PA56/CS‐HAP) was evaluated by the adsorbent dosage, solution pH value, and adsorption kinetics. The curves obtained after fitting the kinetics and adsorption isotherms show that the adsorption behavior under pH = 6 is more consistent with the Langmuir adsorption model. The adsorption capacity in a 100 mg L−1 Pb2+ environment is more than 5 times that of 10 mg L−1. Bio‐based PA56/CS static‐spun nanocomposite fibers prepared by in vitro mineralization have great potential in environmental protection, sensors, chemical engineering, and other fields.

Highlights

PA/CS fibers were prepared by electrospinning.

Hydroxyapatite was deposited by in vitro mineralization technique.

PA/CS‐HAP fiber achieves super hydrophilic effect.

The adsorption capacity of PA/CS‐HAP in 100 mg L−1 Pb(II) reached 27.5 mg g−1.

After fitting, the adsorption process is consistent with Langmuir adsorption.
Asymptotic analysis of a coupled ODE‐PDE system arising from heterogeneous diffusion‐reaction kinetics
Authors: Beneš Michal , Eden Michael , Muntean Adrian
Published: December 2024

This contribution is concerned with the well‐posedness and homogenization of an ordinary differential equation (ODE) of Arrhenius‐type coupled with a doubly nonlinear parabolic partial differential equation (PDE) with rapidly oscillating coefficients and taking into account disparate diffusion‐reaction time scales, including regularly as well as singularly perturbed problems. The ODE‐PDE system is spatially dependent and is subjected to Robin‐type boundary conditions. Such problems are used to model a variety of processes and phenomena such as combustion and exothermal chemical reactions. We will have a special look at the questions of the existence, uniqueness, boundedness, and the asymptotic limit of the microscale problem by applying the two‐scale convergence and unfolding method. A numerical example illustrates both the expected behavior of the approximated solutions as well as the capability of the proposed upscaled models.