bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct patterns of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors in synovial fluid after ACL injury in comparison to osteoarthritis
Authors: Rai Muhammad Farooq , Cai Lei , Chinzei Nobuaki , Schmidt Eric J. , Yousuf Omer , Guilak Farshid , Brophy Robert H.
Published: January 2024

This study analyzed knee synovial fluid after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and in osteoarthritis (OA) to test the hypotheses that concentrations of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors differ (a) by diagnosis and (b) after ACL tear by time from injury and presence/absence of concomitant meniscus tear. Synovial fluid samples were collected from two groups, ACL tears (with or without meniscus tear) (N = 13) and Kellgren–Lawrence grade 3 and 4 OA (N = 16), undergoing clinically indicated aspiration of the knee joint. Multiple cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors were assessed using a multiplexed 45‐protein panel. Comparisons were made for the concentrations of all molecules between ACL tear and OA patients, isolated versus combined ACL and meniscus tears, and categorized by time from injury: acute or early subacute (<15 days, N = 8) versus late subacute or chronic (>15 days and <3 months, N = 5). ACL tear patients have higher levels of six molecules (IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐13, PlGF‐1, bNGF, TNF‐α) in knee synovial fluid compared to OA patients. Isolated ACL tears express higher levels of IL‐4, IL‐13 and IFN‐γ and lower levels of IL‐7 than ACL tears with a concomitant meniscus tear. SDF‐1α, PlGF‐1, IL‐1RA, HGF, bNGF, and BDNF levels are elevated immediately after injury and drop off significantly in the late subacute phase (after 15 days). Synovial fluid from knees with ACL tears have elevated metabolic activity compared to knees with OA. The cytokine profiles after ACL tears are influenced by the time from injury and the presence of meniscus tears. These findings offer valuable insights into the levels of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors in the knee after ACL injury, information which may have important implications for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of this common pathology.
The medical emergency team pharmacist: describing an overnight service
Authors: Crawley Lauren , Edwards Gail , Gibbs Harry , Tong Erica
Published: January 2024

Background

Clinical practice after hours and attendance at medical emergency team (MET) calls are two novel and emerging areas of pharmacy practice. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, our institution's pharmacy services expanded from 8 am–5 pm to 24 h daily, including MET call attendance.

Aim

This study aimed to describe pharmacist roles, including medications charted by the general medicine and intensive care unit pharmacists during the period of extended‐hours pharmacy practice and the characteristics of MET calls attended.

Method

This descriptive, cross‐sectional study included patients admitted to the Alfred Hospital, Victoria, Australia between 3 April 2020–28 February 2021, when a MET was called between 5 pm–8 am, a pharmacist attended, and medication changes occurred. Data collected included whether the MET call was medication related and a description of medication changes. Ethics approval was granted by the Alfred Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (Reference no: 297/21).

Results

One thousand six hundred and forty‐four MET calls (average 5.4 calls per night) were attended by pharmacists during extended hours. Medication changes were made in response to clinical deterioration at 627 (38%) calls. The most frequent change was the initiation of cardiovascular medications (n = 206). Partnered pharmacist medication charting, including commencing, ceasing, or changing medications, occurred at 39% of MET calls with therapy changes.

Conclusion

Pharmacists can play a key role in managing deteriorating patients as part of a MET team. Medications may be implicated in clinical deterioration of patients and are frequently administered at MET calls. The expansion of pharmacy services provided the opportunity for pharmacists to contribute to MET calls across the 24‐h period.
Study on fermentation preparation, physicochemical properties and biological activity of carboxymethylpachymaran with different degrees of substitution
Authors: Ma Yiming , Zang Ruixiang , Chen Mo , Zhang Pei , Cheng Yaqing , Hu Guoyuan
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Carboxymethylpachymaran (CMP) is created by carboxymethylating pachyman (PM), which increases its water solubility and enhances a number of biological activities. Traditional polysaccharides modified by carboxymethylation employ strong chemical techniques. Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) has been used previously for liquid fermentation to carboxymethyl modify bacterial polysaccharides. This theory can be applied to fungal polysaccharides because Poria cocos has the ability to naturally utilize cellulose.

RESULTS

CMC with different degrees of substitution (DS) (0.7, 0.9 and 1.2) were added to P. cocos fermentation medium, and CMPs with different DS (0.38, 0.56 and 0.78, respectively) were prepared by liquid fermentation. The physical and chemical properties and biological activities of the CMPs were determined. Their structures were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and monosaccharide composition. With the increase of DS, the viscosity and viscosity‐average molecular weight of CMPs decreased, whereas polysaccharide content and water solubility increased, although the triple helix structure was not affected. The results of bioactivity assay showed that the higher the DS of CMPs, the higher the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging ability, and the stronger the bacterial inhibition ability.

CONCLUSION

The present study has developed a method for producing CMPs by P. cocos liquid fermentation. The results of the study confirm that enhancing the DS of CMP could effectively enhance its potential biological activity. The findings provide safe and reliable raw materials for creating CMP‐related foods and encourage CMP application in the functional food industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Low annual revision rate in ankle distraction for ankle osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hollander Julian J. , Paget Liam D. A. , Dahmen Jari , Stornebrink Tobias , Rikken Quinten G. H. , Sierevelt Inger N. , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J. , Stufkens Sjoerd A. S.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Ankle osteoarthritis severely impacts patients' mental and physical quality of life. Besides total ankle replacement and ankle arthrodesis, ankle distraction has been shown to be a promising alternative. The primary aim of the present study was to determine the annual revision rates (ARRs) after ankle distraction. The secondary aim was to obtain an overview of patient‐reported outcome measures and functional outcomes.

Methods

A literature search until November 2023 was performed. Methodological quality was assessed using the methodological index for non‐randomised studies criteria. Primary outcome was the ARR which was log‐transformed and pooled using a random effects model. Secondary outcomes were pooled using a simplified pooling technique and included the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle‐Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS), range of motion (ROM) and post‐operative complications.

Results

The literature search resulted in 287 articles, of which 10 studies, comprising 602 patients, were included. The patients had a pooled mean age of 47 years (range of means: 40–68) and a mean follow‐up of 35 months (range of means: 24–48). The overall methodological quality was moderate to fair. The pooled ARR after ankle distraction was 4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3%–7%). Pooling of AOFAS showed mean 26‐point improvement (from 54 to 80). Additionally, ROM dorsiflexion improved at 5°, and the plantarflexion remained at 31°. The overall complication rate was 41% (95% CI, 35%–48%), of which 77% (95% CI, 67%–85%) were pin‐tract infections.

Conclusion

Ankle distraction results in an ARR of 4% (95% CI, 3%–7%) with clinically relevant improved AOFAS scores. The overall complication rate is 41% and is mainly attributable to treatable pin‐tract infections (77% of recorded complications).

Level of Evidence

Level IV, Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis.
Increased kinesiophobia leads to lower return to sport rate and clinical outcomes following osteochondral allograft transplantation of the knee
Authors: Triana Jairo , DeClouette Brittany , Montgomery Samuel R. , Avila Amanda , Shankar Dhruv S. , Alaia Michael J. , Strauss Eric J. , Campbell Kirk A.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to describe the postoperative psychological state of patients following osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation in the knee and to determine whether patient‐perceived kinesiophobia is associated with the rate of return to sport (RTS).

Methods

A retrospective review of the electronic medical record at a single institution was conducted for all patients that underwent OCA transplantation from January 2010 to 2020. Patient‐reported outcomes including the visual analog scale (VAS), knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) and the Tampa scale of kinesiophobia‐11 (TSK‐11) were collected. Patients were surveyed regarding their postoperative RTS status.

Results

A total of 38 patients (52.6% female) were included in our analysis. Overall, 24 patients (63.2%) returned to sport with 12 (50%) of these patients returning at a lower level of play. When comparing patients that return to sport to those that did not, patients that return had significantly superior KOOS pain (p = 0.019) and KOOS QOL (p = 0.011). Measures of kinesiophobia (TSK‐11) were significantly higher among patients that did not return to sport (p = 0.014), while satisfaction (n.s.) and pain intensity (n.s.) were comparable between groups. Logistic regression models controlling for demographic factors, VAS pain scores and lesion size showed that for every one‐point increase in TSK‐11 kinesiophobia score, patients were 1.33 times more likely to return to sport at a lower level (p = 0.009). For every one‐point increase in TSK‐11 scores KOOS QOL decreased by 2.4 points (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Fear of reinjury decreases the likelihood that patients will return to their preoperative level of sport after OCA transplantation. Patients that do not return to sport report significantly greater fear of reinjury and inferior clinical outcomes, despite similar levels of satisfaction and pain compared to those that return.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
The Usefulness of Salivary Gland Organoids for Evaluation of the Potency of Botulinum Neurotoxin
Authors: Yoon Yeo‐Jun , Lim Jae‐Yol
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) is a substance used to treat chronic sialorrhea, muscle dystonia, and is used in cosmetic applications. Measuring the potency of BoNT is crucial because it acts even with a small amount. However, the current methods for measuring the potency of BoNT involve using two‐dimensional neuroblastoma cell line‐based methods. In this study, we aimed to develop a new method to measure the potency of BoNT using a three‐dimensional organoid culture system.

Materials and Method

We established the optimal conditions for coculturing N2a neuronal cells with murine salivary gland organoids (SGOs). After determining the appropriate chemical concentrations, we treated the SGOs cocultured with N2a cells with BoNT type A (BoNT/A). We confirmed the expression of salivary gland‐related genes and proteins using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

The SGOs cocultured with N2a cells showed that the dendrites or axons of neuronal cells were in contact with the outermost layer of the SGOs. When we applied acetylcholine and neostigmine to the coculture systems, the mRNA expression of Aqp5 and Bhlha15, associated with salivary gland secretory cells, increased. However, this effect was reversed when BoNT/A was applied, as confirmed through real‐time PCR.

Conclusion

We found that the coculture system of SGOs and N2a neuronal cells can potentially serve as a potency testing platform for BoNT.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:2697–2704, 2024
HOW TO TRANSFORM (NOT RESOLVE) CONFLICT
Authors: Ury William
Published: January 2024

The author is one of the world’s best‐known experts on negotiation, and the co‐author of the classic book Getting to Yes. He recounts that he has “spent nearly 50 years wandering the world and dealing with some of its most difficult conflicts, from war zones to corporate battles and from union‐management disputes to political fights.” Rather than characterizing himself as an optimist or a pessimist, he prefers the term “possibilist.”  He writes: “I believe it is possible for us humans to deal wisely with even our deepest differences.” Among his insights: “We cannot end conflict, but we can embrace and transform it. We can choose to handle conflict constructively, using our innate curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.” In addition: “Given just how hard it is to remember to pause in the heat of conflict, I have learned over the years to compensate by building something I call the balcony. The balcony is a place of calm and perspective where we can keep our eyes on the prize.” He concludes: “More than a method, the path to possible is a mindset. It is a way of living in these challenging times—needed now more than ever.”
CREATING A CULTURE OF AI CONFIDENCE: A BLUEPRINT FOR LEADERS
Authors: Patel Amit
Published: January 2024

The author, Founder and Managing Director of Mythos Group, discusses artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of how leaders must act regarding the expectations, fears, and anxieties expressed now and in the future by their employees. He claims that AI “is not a replacement for employees,” but rather “a way of augmenting your existing workforce, improving their ability to leverage information and increasing their efficiency.” He further describes AI and machine learning algorithms, and puts these concepts into context for the world of organizations. He discusses various challenges, under headings such as perception, confidence, and garbage in/garbage out. He follows with opportunities, grouped under decision‐making and efficiency, along with tactics and a look into the future. These ideas are bolstered by four sidebars: Key Questions For Leaders To Answer In Addressing Employee Perceptions Of AI, Key Questions To Answer About Data Protection And Use, Practical Approaches To Building A Culture Of AI Understanding, and Pragmatic Approaches To AI Integration. His conclusion states that “organizations will need to draw on expert advice that simultaneously considers the strengths of their teams and finding opportunities for AI to make the best use of their expertise and institutional knowledge.”
WHY MANAGEMENT HAS GOTTEN WORSE AND THE LEADERSHIP ISSUES BEHIND THAT
Authors: Cappelli Peter
Published: January 2024

The author, Professor of Management at The Wharton School and Director of Wharton’s Center for Human Resources, discusses the background of what in his view is the worsening of management of employees in today’s organizations. He cites considerable research and historical background to this effect, while also relating the leadership issues that have led to this situation. For instance: “Remarkably, 29% of those who are promoted now leave within a month because promotions often come with no pay increase and with more work and responsibility. A third of US managers now report that they received no management training of any kind either before becoming a manager or after.” He also cites the power and “influence of the investor world, which relies on financial accounting to judge company performance, and the fact that financial accounting simply cannot address human capital.” In looking for ways to improve these systemic issues, he believes that “the way forward starts with Boards of Directors who have the long‐run success of their companies in mind and who guide the top executives. It is important that they help executives avoid blind spots about people issues that are common in a ‘finance‐first’ approach to management.”
On comparing the profitability of horizontal mergers under Cournot and Bertrand competitions
Authors: Tao Aiyuan , Wang X. Henry
Published: January 2024

This paper reconsiders the comparison of horizontal two‐firm mergers in differentiated oligopolies, originally explored with the assumption that the merged firm produces a single product. By relaxing this assumption, our analysis presents a contrast to previous findings that suggested that a two‐firm merger is more likely under the Cournot competition than under the Bertrand competition. We find that the opposite holds true if the merged firm chooses to produce one or both products post‐merger. Moreover, we demonstrate that, in most circumstances, and under either the Cournot or Bertrand competition, the merged firm has an incentive to produce both products post‐merger.
A Double‐Blind, Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled Trial of Bumetanide in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Damier Philippe , Degos Bertrand , Castelonovo Giovanni , Anheim Mathieu , Benatru Isabelle , Carrière Nicolas , Colin Olivier , Defebvre Luc , Deverdal Marie , Eusebio Alexandre , Ferrier Vanessa , Giordana Caroline , Houeto Jean‐Luc , Le Dily Severine , Mongin Marie , Thiriez Claire , Tranchant Christine , Ravel Denis , Corvol Jean‐Christophe , Rascol Olivier , Ben Ari Yehezkel
Published: January 2024

Background

Acting on the main target of dopaminergic cells, the striatal γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐ergic cells, might be a new way to treat persons with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of bumetanide, an Na–K–Cl cotransporter (NKCC1) inhibitor, to improve motor symptoms in PD.

Methods

This was a 4‐month double‐blind, randomized, parallel‐group, placebo‐controlled trial of 1.75 to 3 mg/day bumetanide as an adjunct to levodopa in 44 participants with PD and motor fluctuations.

Results

Compared to the baseline, the mean change in OFF Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III score after 4 months of treatment (primary endpoint) did not improve significantly compared with placebo. No changes between participants treated with bumetanide and those treated with placebo were observed for most other outcome measures. Despite no relevant safety signals, bumetanide was poorly tolerated.

Conclusions

There was no evidence in this study that bumetanide has efficacy in improving motor symptoms of PD. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Clinical and Genetic Spectrum in a Large Cohort of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia
Authors: Cao Yuwen , Zheng Haoran , Zhu Zeyu , Yao Li , Tian Wotu , Cao Li
Published: January 2024

Background

Next‐generation sequencing‐based molecular assessment has benefited the diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) subtypes. However, the clinical and genetic spectrum of HSP due to large fragment deletions/duplications has yet to be fully defined.

Objective

We aim to better characterize the clinical phenotypes and genetic features of HSP and to provide new thoughts on diagnosis.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed in patients with clinically suspected HSP, followed by multiple ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) sequentially carried out for those with negative findings in known causative genes. Genotype–phenotype correlation analyses were conducted under specific genotypes.

Results

We made a genetic diagnosis in 60% (162/270) of patients, of whom 48.9% (132/270) had 24 various subtypes due to point mutations (SPG4/SPG11/SPG35/SPG7/SPG10/SPG5/SPG3A/SPG2/SPG76/SPG30/SPG6/SPG9A/SPG12/SPG15/SPG17/SPG18/SPG26/SPG49/SPG55/SPG56/SPG57/SPG62/SPG78/SPG80). Thirty patients were found to have causative rearrangements by MLPA (11.1%), among which SPG4 was the most prevalent (73.3%), followed by SPG3A (16.7%), SPG6 (3.3%), SPG7 (3.3%), and SPG11 (3.3%). Clinical analysis showed that some symptoms were often related to specific subtypes, and rearrangement‐related SPG3A patients seemingly had later onset. We observed a presumptive anticipation among SPG4 and SPG3A families due to rearrangement.

Conclusions

Based on the largest known Asian HSP cohort, including the largest subgroup of rearrangement‐related pedigrees, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the clinical and genetic spectrum of HSP. We propose a diagnostic flowchart to sequentially detect the causative genes in practice. Large fragment mutations account for a considerable proportion of HSP, and thus, MLPA screening acts as a beneficial supplement to routine WES. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Chemie und Kunst: K(l)Experimente
Authors: Albus Stefan
Published: January 2024

Die 1960er Jahre mit ihren anarchistischen Kunststoffobjekten sind vorbei. Kreative setzen Polymerwerkstoffe mittlerweile gezielt ein, um ihre Vorstellungen zu verwirklichen. Auf der Kunstmesse Art Cologne ist alles Chemie und Physik, darunter Schaum, Autolack, Kunstfell und Epoxidharz.
Can we predict whether a man with acute or chronic urinary retention will void after bladder outflow resistance reduction surgery? ICI‐RS 2023
Authors: Tarcan Tufan , Acar Ömer , Malde Sachin , Sinha Sanjay , Sahai Arun , Perrouin‐Verbe Marie‐Aimee , Hashim Hashim , Agro Enrico Finazzi , Wein Alan , Abrams Paul
Published: January 2024

Aims

To address the predictive factors of a successful voiding after bladder outflow resistance reduction surgery (BORRS) in men presenting with acute or chronic urinary retention (UR).

Methods

A think tank (TT) of ICI‐RS was gathered in 2023, Bristol, UK, to discuss several aspects of the problem, such as the pathophysiology of UR, the clinical and urodynamic evaluation of men with UR and whether it is possible to predict which men will be able to successfully void after treatment with contemporary surgical options.

Results

The TT agreed that successful voiding after BORRS depends on several factors but that a strong recommendation cannot be made regarding preoperative evaluation and whether there are predictive factors of success because of the heterogeneity of patients and methodology in published trials. The diagnosis of obstruction in men with UR may be challenging when there is apparent reduced detrusor contraction during urodynamic studies. Even in the absence of bladder contractility there is documentation of such cases that have voided adequately after BORRS. Still, detrusor underactivity and inadequate relief of prostatic obstruction are the main causes of an unsuccessful voiding after BORRS. Conventional resection and enucleation methods remain the most successful surgeries in relieving UR in men, whereas the efficacy of minimally invasive surgical treatments needs to be assessed further.

Conclusion

Research is needed to understand the pathophysiology of UR and the predictors of successful voiding after different types of BORRS in men with UR.
Outcomes for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients with intestinal perforation
Authors: Canedo Gustavo de Oliveira , Fahy Aodhnait S. , Krol Eveline Lapidus , Abla Oussama , Chiu Priscilla P. L.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Intestinal perforation during acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment in children is rare, but represents a severe complication with possible long‐term consequences. In this study, we aim to provide an overview of the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of these patients; analyze surgical pathology findings for possible causes; and determine its impact on patients’ therapy, nutritional status, and outcome.

Study design

Historical chart review from January 2000 to October 2020 of children with ALL and intestinal perforation during therapy diagnosed at a single institution. Data collected included patient demographics, anthropometric measurements, ALL characteristics, diagnosis and surgery of intestinal perforation, pathology, adjustments to treatment plan, and outcome.

Results

Of 1840 ALL patients, 13 (0.7%) presented with intestinal perforation during treatment. Perforation occurred during induction phase in 91% of cases. Most patients underwent laparotomy with ostomy creation, and no patient died from the intervention or developed malnutrition. Pathology mainly revealed inflammation at the perforation site. Two samples showed leukemic infiltration and presence of microorganisms. Patients were able to resume ALL therapy in all cases. A total of eight patients (73%) were in first remission at last follow‐up, with a median follow‐up time of 42 months (interquartile range = 42).

Conclusion

Early surgical intervention is a successful treatment approach for intestinal perforation in ALL patients. There is a clear predilection for induction phase in the occurrence of intestinal perforation in ALL patients. No specific cause was identified. Patients can receive bridging chemotherapy during surgical recovery and proceed with their treatment without apparent impact on outcome.
Knowledge gaps and confidence in counseling about aneuploidy screening and testing: A survey of prenatal care clinicians
Authors: Thorsen M. M. , Khanuja K. , Mahoney R. C. , Al‐Kouatly H. B. , Russo M. L.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Comprehensive counseling on prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing is challenging for clinicians. We sought to identify baseline clinician knowledge of prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing and needs to promote counseling aligned with ACOG recommendations.

Methods

We performed an anonymous, cross‐sectional survey of clinicians at two unaffiliated, tertiary academic institutions to assess the knowledge of, confidence in, and time spent counseling on prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing. Stata (Version 17, College Station, TX) was used to perform descriptive statistics. Deductive and inductive coding was used to analyze responses regarding ideal education resources.

Results

The survey response rate was 78% (100/129). Only 36% of respondents correctly answered knowledge questions about prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing. A majority, 59% (16/39), of those confident or extremely confident in counseling were unable to answer all questions accurately. Respondents reported a median of 5.6 min (95% CI 4.9–6.4 min) spent counseling. Thematic analysis of free responses revealed desire for visual tools that discuss financial costs and patient values.

Conclusions

Surveyed clinicians demonstrated deficiencies in knowledge about prenatal genetic counseling. To provide better and more comprehensive care, we noted a desire for the development of formalized resources for clinician and patient education.
Effects of grade retention in lower secondary education on students' self‐concept, self‐esteem, goal orientations, and school career
Authors: Pipa Joana , Daniel João R. , Peixoto Francisco
Published: January 2024

Grade retention is one of the most discussed and controversial educational measures, and yet, it is still widely applied in many countries. Research investigating the effects of grade retention on students' psychosocial variables presents mixed findings, partly due to the variables assessed, methodological issues, and the length of the studies. This study aimed to analyse both the short to medium and longitudinal effects of grade retention in grades 7 or 8 on Portuguese students' academic self‐concept, self‐esteem, goal orientations, and school career. Data were collected continuously over a 3‐year span (once a year) and, again, 3 years after the third wave. After matching 477 students on several pretreatment variables using inverse probability treatment weighting with time‐varying treatments (i.e., retention), our analytical sample consisted of 85 promoted students, 33 students retained in grade 7, and 32 students retained in grade 8. Our results showed that retained students did not differ from their promoted peers in self‐esteem and goal orientations in the short, medium, or long term. The exception was for an increase in the academic self‐concept of retained students, but only in short term. Finally, considering students' school career, grade retention was not predictive of further retention.
Rapid detection of multi‐scale cotton pests based on lightweight GBW‐YOLOv5 model
Authors: Liang Jinyan , Tian Min , Liu Xiang
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Pest infestation is one of the primary causes of decreased cotton yield and quality. Rapid and accurate identification of cotton pest categories is essential for producers to implement effective and expeditious control measures. Existing multi‐scale cotton pest detection technology still suffers from poor accuracy and rapidity of detection. This study proposed the pruned GBW‐YOLOv5 (Ghost‐BiFPN‐WIoU You Only Look Once version 5), a novel model for the rapid detection of cotton pests.

RESULTS

The detection performance of the pruned GBW‐YOLOv5 model for cotton pests was evaluated based on the self‐built cotton pest dataset. In comparison with the original YOLOv5 model, the pruned GBW‐YOLOv5 model demonstrated significant reductions in complexity, size, and parameters by 68.4%, 66.7%, and 68.2%, respectively. Remarkably, the mean average precision (mAP) decreased by a mere 3.8%. The pruned GBW‐YOLOv5 model outperformed other classic object detection models, achieving an outstanding detection speed of 114.9 FPS.

CONCLUSION

The methodology proposed by our research enabled rapid and accurate identification of cotton pests, laying a solid foundation for the implementation of precise pest control measures. The pruned GBW‐YOLOv5 model provided theoretical research and technical support for detecting cotton pests under field conditions. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
High‐Performance Fully Transparent Ultraviolet Photodetector Fabricated Using GaN‐Based Schottky Barrier Photodiode
Authors: Ye Lijuan , Huang Xinya , Liu Haowen , Li Xudong , Xu Fengyun , Pan Jianjun , Li Honglin , Pang Di , Kong Chunyang , Zhang Hong , Xiong Yuanqiang , Li Wanjun
Published: January 2024

Transparent electronics is a burgeoning field with exciting potential for next‐generation “see‐through” devices. The creation of high‐performance fully transparent ultraviolet photodetectors (PDs) is essential for enabling wearable and portable applications. In this study, metal–semiconductor–metal (MSM) type Al‐doped ZnO (AZO)/GaN/AZO and indium tin oxide (ITO)/GaN/ITO‐transparent ultraviolet PDs, are initially designed, utilizing AZO‐ and ITO‐transparent conductive electrodes. In these investigations, it is revealed that AZO and ITO form Ohmic and Schottky contacts, respectively, with GaN. Subsequently, building on these findings, a fully transparent Schottky barrier photodiode (SBPD) is developed for ultraviolet photodetection using AZO/GaN/ITO. The SBPD displays a high responsivity (R) of 1.41 × 103 A W−1, a detectivity (D*) of 6.85 × 1014 Jones, and a photo‐to‐dark current ratio exceeding 1 × 104 at a − 5 V bias. Furthermore, the SBPD demonstrates an ultrahigh responsivity of 1.18 A W−1 at 0 V bias, indicating its potential as a self‐powered device under extreme conditions. In these results, the tremendous potential of the high‐performance and fully transparent GaN‐based SBPD is demonstrated for environmental monitoring, optical communication, military radar, and other fields.
An automated alignment algorithm for identification of the source of footwear impressions with common class characteristics
Authors: Lee Hana , Carriquiry Alicia , Park Soyoung
Published: January 2024

We introduce an algorithmic approach designed to compare similar shoeprint images, with automated alignment. Our method employs the Iterative Closest Points (ICP) algorithm to attain optimal alignment, further enhancing precision through phase‐only correlation. Utilizing diverse metrics to quantify similarity, we train a random forest model to predict the empirical probability that two impressions originate from the same shoe. Experimental evaluations using high‐quality two‐dimensional shoeprints showcase our proposed algorithm's robustness in managing dissimilarities between impressions from the same shoe, outperforming existing approaches.
Is economic growth in East Asia pacific and South Asia ESG factors based and aligned growth?
Authors: Işık Cem , Ongan Serdar , Islam Hasibul , Jabeen Gul , Pinzon Stefania
Published: January 2024

Asia–Pacific countries are experiencing rapid economic growth. Is this growth ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors‐based and aligned growth? Therefore, this study investigates the connections between ESG indicators and economic growth in East Asia Pacific and South Asia. To achieve this aim, we employed the FMOLS, DOLS, and AMG models. While the AMG model highlights significant long‐term positive effects of the environmental (EFs) and governance factors (GOVNF) on economic growth, the FMOLS and DOLS models emphasize the substantial influence of social factors (SOC) on economic growth. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of ESG factors and offer valuable insights for policymakers aiming to align strategies with the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Notably, the GOVNF, with components like control of corruption, regulatory quality, rule of law, and government effectiveness, does not influence the GDP of developed nations, such as Japan, New Zealand, and Australia. However, its significance is evident in countries like Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. This result might stem from the possibility that developed countries have historically addressed and resolved issues like corruption and the rule of law, while these elements remain crucial determinants for the economic growth of developing nations like Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. Empirical findings provide the region's policymakers with essential insights and a guide for implementing their economic growth policies ESG factor‐based and aligned to the United Nations' SDGs. These targets will make the economic growth of the region's countries sustainable.
Key recommendations for the implementation of policies concerning LGBTIQ+ children
Authors: Langarita Jose Antonio , Sadurní‐Balcells Núria , Platero Lucas , Esteves Mafalda , Albertín Pilar , Montserrat Carme , López Saez Miguel Ángel , Pastor Yolanda , Blanco‐Fuente Irene , Kutassy Dorottya
Published: January 2024

The Colourful Childhoods project, funded by the European Union, has been implemented in six European Union countries (Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Portugal, and Spain) between 2022 and 2024. The project aimed to contribute to the development of effective strategies to prevent and combat all forms of violence against LGBTIQ children in vulnerable and post‐COVID contexts. This text discusses the relevance of policies targeting LGBTIQ+ children, identifies some of the primary needs of LGBTIQ+ children to inform the development of public policies that enhance their well‐being, presents the requirements of professionals working with children to provide effective support, and highlights political and legal needs. Additionally, the text provides recommendations that can contribute to the well‐being of LGBTIQ+ children.
Functionalization of Arabinoxylan in Chitosan Based Blends by Periodate Oxidation for Drug Release Study
Authors: Jabeen Nazish , Iram Fozia , Atif Muhammad , Fatimah Naalain E
Published: January 2024

This article presents the isolation of arabinoxylan (AX) from Plantago ovata seed husk and its oxidation using periodate to create oxidized‐AX (OAX) with distinct functionalities. Utilizing the solution casting method, biocompatible blends of arabinoxylan/chitosan (AX/CS) are prepared at various weight ratios, and their properties are assessed. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) are employed to gauge compatibility and thermal traits of AX and OAX with CS. Solubility tests reveal partial and limited solubility of AX and OAX in distilled water, respectively. OAX displays favorable compressibility and flow rate through Carr's index, Hausner's ratio, and angle of repose analyses. FT‐IR data confirm intermolecular hydrogen bonding between CS′s −NH2− group and OAX′s carbonyl group, with XRD showing low crystallinity. Diclofenac sodium (DC) is loaded as a model drug into AX/CS and OAX/CS blends for release studies in pH 6.8 phosphate buffer. Results exhibit OAX/CS blends with sustained drug release, surpassing AX/CS blends. Among ratios tested, the OAX/CS (1 : 2) blend emerges as a superior excipient, demonstrating enhanced in‐vitro release potential, highlighting oxidized blends′ promise in sustained drug delivery systems.
Constructing mechanically robust, efficient self‐healing, high‐energy, and recyclable energetic composites by hybrid dynamic lock strategy
Authors: Sun Zhe , Cheng Yuhang , Wan Boyao , Jin Xiaoming , Zhang Tianfu , Zhu Hongyi , Xue Qi , Xiao Lei , Liu Guigao , Jiang Wei , Zhang Guangpu
Published: January 2024

It is still a huge challenge to introduce effective crack‐healing ability into energetic composites with a high oxidizer content. In this article, a poly(urea‐urethane) energetic elastomer was prepared by the polycondensation reaction of glycidyl azido polymer (GAP), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and 2‐aminophenyl disulfide (2‐APD). In the poly(urea‐urethane) elastomer structure, the hybrid dynamic lock, including multilevel H‐bonds and disulfide bonds, not only provides abundant dynamic interactions and promotes chain diffusion, but also enhances physical crosslinking density. Such a unique design fabricated the energetic elastomer with robust tensile strength (0.72 MPa), high stretchability (1631%), and outstanding toughness (8.95 MJ/m3) in the field of energetic polymers. Meanwhile, this energetic elastomer exhibited high self‐healing efficiency (98.4% at 60 °C) and heat release (Q = 1750.46 J/g). Experimental and theoretical results adequately explain the self‐healing mechanism, particularly the role of azido units. The high‐solid content (80 wt%) energetic composites based on the energetic elastomer presented outstanding micro‐defect self‐healing (97.8%) and recycling without loss of mechanical performance. The development of smart energetic composites with excellent self‐healing and recyclable ability provides a meaningful way for a wide range of applications in the field of energetic materials.
Numerical simulation of concrete structures—From research to engineering application
Authors: Cervenka Vladimir , Cervenka Jan , Rymes Jiri
Published: January 2024

The paper describes the authors' contribution to the evolution of numerical simulation of concrete structures based on the nonlinear finite element method. The formulation of constitutive relations for concrete material is a keystone of this approach, whereas cracking is the dominant feature. Two distinct methods of crack modeling were developed, namely, the discrete and the smeared crack models. Blind prediction benchmarks of the experimental tests are used for model verification. Application of the numerical simulation in the design of concrete structures is supported by the global safety format, where the uncertainty sources, due to the material and the resistance model, are considered. A structural assessment of a prestressed reinforced concrete viaduct is shown as an example of application.
Single‐cell RNA sequencing reveals the landscape of biomarker in allergic rhinitis patient undergoing intracervical lymphatic immunotherapy and related pan‐cancer analysis
Authors: Li Yin , Li Hao , Huang Weijun , Yu Qingqing , Wang Kai , Xiong Yu , Wang Qixing , Qin Yang , Kuang Xiong , Tang Jun
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is one of the leading allergic diseases worldwide. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) induces persistent specific allergen tolerance to achieve remission of the symptoms in AR patients. We creatively conducted the intra‐cervical lymphatic immunotherapy (ICLIT) for AR patients. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of immune cell response of AIT in AR remains elusive.

Method

To investigate the transcriptome profile in AR patients who underwent ICLIT, we comprehensively investigated the transcriptional changes in B cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of AR patient by single‐cell RNA sequencing. Immunoglobulins and relative key gene, which influences the B cell differentiation, was demonstrated. The biomarkers' association with different types of tumors was investigated.

Results

Naive B cells, germinal center B cells, activated memory B cells, and memory B cells constituted the B cells subsets. The expression of IGHE, IGHGs, IGHA, IGHD, and IGHM from memory B cells was validated. Pseudotime analysis further indicated the dynamic change from the expression of the immunoglobulins in the memory B cells, suggesting that ITGB1 may contribute to the differentiation procedure of memory B cells. The cell–cell communication among these immune cells demonstrated the significantly enhanced CD23, BTLA signaling after ICLIT in AR patient. ITGB1 was upregulated in 13 tumors and downregulated in six others. High ITGB1 expression was linked to poor prognosis in eight types of tumors. ITGB1 expression showed correlations with tumor mutation burden, tissue purity, and microsatellite instability in different types of tumors.

Discussion

ITGB1 was demonstrated as a potential biomarker for AR patients after ICLIT and is significant in identifying immune infiltration in tumor tissue and predicting tumor prognosis.
Evaluation of commercial nanofiltration and reverse osmosis membrane filtration to remove per‐and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Effects of transmembrane pressures and water matrices
Authors: Ma Qingquan , Lei Qian , Liu Fangzhou , Song Zimu , Khusid Boris , Zhang Wen
Published: January 2024

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are now widely found in aquatic ecosystems, including sources of drinking water and portable water, due to their increasing prevalence. Among different PFAS treatment or separation technologies, nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) both yield high rejection efficiencies (>95%) of diverse PFAS in water; however, both technologies are affected by many intrinsic and extrinsic factors. This study evaluated the rejection of PFAS of different carbon chain length (e.g., PFOA and PFBA) by two commercial RO and NF membranes under different operational conditions (e.g., applied pressure and initial PFAS concentration) and feed solution matrixes, such as pH (4–10), salinity (0‐ to 1000‐mM NaCl), and organic matters (0–10 mM). We further performed principal component analysis (PCA) to demonstrate the interrelationships of molecular weight (213–499 g·mol−1), membrane characteristics (RO or NF), feed water matrices, and operational conditions on PFAS rejection. Our results confirmed that size exclusion is a primary mechanism of PFAS rejection by RO and NF, as well as the fact that electrostatic interactions are important when PFAS molecules have sizes less than the NF membrane pores.

Practitioner Points

Two commercial RO and NF membranes were both evaluated to remove 10 different PFAS.

High transmembrane pressures facilitated permeate recovery and PFAS rejection by RO.

Electrostatic repulsion and pore size exclusion are dominant rejection mechanisms for PFAS removal.

pH, ionic strength, and organic matters affected PFAS rejection.

Mechanisms of PFAS rejection with RO/NF membranes were explained by PCA analysis.
Flow velocity and light intensity combination is important for Microcystis aeruginosa physical suppression
Authors: Senavirathna Mudalige Don Hiranya Jayasanka , Yan Hongyu
Published: January 2024

The cyanobacterial response to flow velocity or light intensity deviates from the combined effect of both factors. The responses of Microcystis aeruginosa to different combinations of flow velocities and light intensities were tested. Growth (OD730 and protein), stress (catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione peroxidase), and photosynthetic ability (chlorophyll‐a and fluorescence) parameters of M. aeruginosa were measured to evaluate the effects of different combinations. Exposure to different flow velocity–light combinations significantly affected the growth and physiology of M. aeruginosa. Flow velocities of 0.4 m s−1 showed a prominent influence on most of the measured parameters compared with no flow velocity or higher flow velocity conditions. The 1.2‐m s−1 flow velocity and high light intensity (1200 μmol m−2 s−1) exposure caused a significant elevation in oxidative stress. Lower velocities are beneficial for M. aeruginosa at light stress, whereas extreme velocities are adverse and elevate the stress. Two categories of light–velocity combinations were identified as preferred and extreme categories, depending on whether they suppressed or supported M. aeruginosa growth. In controlling cyanobacteria blooms using flow or high‐intensity light, it is imperative to consider the interaction of these two factors, as their combined effects can significantly vary the stress levels in cyanobacteria. A new system, designed to minimize mechanical damage on M. aeruginosa, was used to generate flow velocities. Additionally, the combined effects of flow velocities and light intensities have been considered for the first time.

Practitioner Points

Flow velocity can influence the effect of light on Microcystis aeruginosa.

High light exposure effect on Microcystis aeruginosa can be reduced by low flow velocity.

High flow velocity and high light exposure increase the stress on Microcystis aeruginosa.

Different light intensities and flow velocity combinations changed Microcystis aeruginosa stress physiology.
A snapshot of SARS‐CoV‐2 viral RNA throughout wastewater treatment plants in Arkansas
Authors: Long Aaron , Loethen Katie , Behzadnezhad Asal , Zhang Wen
Published: January 2024

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) can spread the viral RNA in wastewater by the feces of those experience COVID‐19 symptoms. While wastewater monitoring of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the raw sewage has been confirmed as an effective tool to predict COVID‐19 infection, the goal of this study is to assess the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 viral RNA throughout various wastewater treatment processes. Wastewater samples were collected from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in the state of Arkansas from August 2020 to June 2021 and measured for the relative concentration of SARS‐CoV‐2 viral RNA using RT‐qPCR. The gene concentrations in the raw wastewater measured in this study were similar to other published studies, targeting the N1 and N2 genes of the virus. The viral RNA concentration was measured after each wastewater treatment step within WWTPs, including primary sedimentation, activated sludge, filtration and disinfection. Results show the most viral RNA removal occurred in the secondary treatment (activated sludge). The viral RNA was only occasionally detected after disinfection (chlorination or UV disinfection). Overall, WWTPs can remove the SARS‐CoV‐2 viral RNA at an average of 98.7%, while complete removal was achieved on 82% of the sampling days. Further investigation is required to ensure complete viral RNA removal from wastewater such as improving existing treatment process or supplementing with additional treatment steps.

Practitioner Points

The viral RNA of SARS‐CoV‐2 was detected in Arkansas wastewater treatment plants.

SARS‐CoV‐2 was rarely detected in treated effluent from wastewater treatment plants.

Activated sludge was effective removing SARS‐CoV‐2 viral RNA from wastewater.

This study was limited by the direct RNA extraction from wastewater, which lowered the sensitivity of detection.