bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multivariate Frequency Analysis of Drought Characteristics in Finland Using Vine Copulas
Authors: Mirabbasi Rasoul , Klöve Björn , Torabi Haghighi Ali
Published: November 2024

We use a multivariate analysis to study droughts in Finland using the Joint Deficit Index (JDI). Subsequently, the joint probability of occurrence of drought characteristics was analysed using Vine copulas. For this purpose, we used monthly precipitation from 22 meteorological stations across Finland in the period 1980–2021. The JDI time series showed that Finland had a normal wetness condition most of the time during the studied period. Trend analysis of the JDI time series using a modified Mann–Kendall test showed that there was no significant trend in the values of this index during the studied period. The drought characteristics, including severity, duration and inter‐arrival time (IAT), were extracted from the JDI time series for each station. The trend analysis of drought characteristics showed that only the Tohmajärvi Kemie station in eastern Finland had a significant negative trend in drought duration and severity. Furthermore, of the 22 stations studied, only two stations showed a significant increasing trend in the duration and severity of drought at the 10% level. The drought characteristics at the remaining stations showed no significant trend at the 10% level of significance. For stations with non‐stationary drought characteristics, generalised additive models for location, scale, and shape (GAMLSS) were used for frequency analysis. The correlation between the three characteristics of severity, duration and IAT was investigated using Kendall's Tau statistic. The results showed a high correlation between the two variables duration and severity and a moderate and acceptable correlation between drought severity and IAT as well as the pair of duration and IAT. In the following, copula functions were used to construct a trivariate distribution of the drought characteristics. Among the copulas tested, the R‐vine copula and its independent mode have the best fit for the variables under study and provide a suitable tree sequence. Finally, using the aforementioned copulas and their conditional density, the frequency analysis of the three drought variables was performed. The results of this study were presented in the form of four‐dimensional graphs to estimate the joint probability of occurrence of drought characteristics based on the JDI. These graphs are presented according to the precipitation conditions of each station, and by having a drought characteristic, other characteristics can be estimated with different probabilities. The proposed method is very efficient in analysing the joint frequency of drought characteristics due to the consideration of the effective parameters and the use of conditional density.
Energy and protein nutrition adequacy in general wards among intensive care unit survivors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rosseel Zenzi , Cortoos Pieter‐Jan , Leemans Lynn , van Zanten Arthur R. H. , Ligneel Claudine , De Waele Elisabeth
Published: November 2024

Background

Adequate energy and protein provision is mandatory to optimize survival chances in critical illness, prevent loss of muscle mass, and reduce length of stay. Data are available concerning feeding adequacy in intensive care unit (ICU) participants, but little is known about the adequacy in post‐ICU participants. This systematic review aimed to evaluate feeding adequacy in post‐ICU participants and addressed causes of feeding interruption leading to suboptimal adequacy.

Methods

For this systematic review, a bibliographic search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Randomized controlled studies, non‐randomized controlled studies, and observational studies conducted between January 1990 and November 2023 fulfilling the inclusion criteria were withheld.

Results

Eight studies were included. Outcomes reported were energy and protein adequacy, barriers, and feeding routes. Energy and protein requirements were determined in various ways, including indirect calorimetry and standardized and weight‐based formulas. Energy adequacy ranged from 52% to 102% and protein adequacy between 63% and 86%. Participants were mainly fed with enteral nutrition (EN) or a combination of oral nutrition and EN. The main barrier reported for inadequate nutrition intake was feeding tube removal.

Conclusion

Next to different ways in calculating targets and reporting results, a wide range in energy and protein adequacy was observed, but with constant protein underfeeding. Participants fed with EN or a combination of EN and oral nutrition had the best adequacy; inappropriate tube removal is a common barrier leading to inadequate therapy. Standardized reporting and larger studies are needed to guide nutrition care for post‐ICU participants.
Reducing amylose content in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) using a novel Wx‐D1 null allele generated by chemical mutagenesis
Authors: Chen Xiaolei , Shao Yongchun , Jiang Yi , Seung David , Guzmán Carlos , Xu Qiang , Zhang Yazhou , Chen Qian , Tang Huaping , Qi Pengfei , Deng Mei , Ma Jian , Chen Guoyue , Wang Jirui , Wei Yuming , Zheng Youliang , Jiang Qiantao
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Amylose has a major influence over starch properties and end‐use quality in wheat. The granule‐bound starch synthase I, encoded by Wx‐1, is the single enzyme responsible for amylose synthesis. Natural null mutants of Wx‐1 appear at extremely low frequencies, particularly in the Wx‐D1 locus, where only four spontaneous null variants have been identified, with different geographic origins. The current study identified an induced Wx‐D1 null mutant (M4‐9484) from the M4 generation of an ethyl methanesulfonate‐mutagenized population of wheat cv. ‘SM126’.

RESULTS

The sequencing showed that the complete Wx‐D1 ORF sequences of ‘SM126’ and M4‐9484 were 2862 bp long and that there was one SNP mutation between them. The mutation was located at the RNA splice site within the junction of exon 8 and intron 8, which led to abnormal transcription of Wx‐D1, with five different aberrant transcripts being identified in the mutant. The Wx‐D1 null allele resulted in amylose and total starch content being decreased in M4‐9484 in comparison with the wild‐type ‘SM126’, with higher swelling capacity and being fully pasted at higher temperatures than the wild‐type parent.

CONCLUSION

The mutation of the Wx‐D1 null gene affects the formation of amylose directly, resulting in significantly altered starch properties. This discovery offers valuable insights for enhancing wheat starch quality and contributes to the diversification of starch characteristics. It also deepens our understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying amylose synthesis, thereby supporting breeding programs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Formation of advanced glycation end products in glucose–amino acid models of Maillard reaction under dry‐ and wet‐heating conditions
Authors: Zhang Chen‐Yang , Guo Yu‐Rong , Hou Tian‐Yu , Ning Qian‐Ru , Han Wan‐Yu , Zhao Xing‐Yun , Cui Feng , Li He
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are compounds formed by non‐enzymatic processes in the Maillard reaction and can cause various chronic diseases. This study explores the AGE formation process in a glucose–amino acid system under both wet‐ and dry‐heating conditions, and analyzes the effect of cysteine in AGE formation.

RESULTS

Under wet‐heating conditions, Nε‐carboxymethyllysine (CML) and Nε‐carboxyethyllysine (CEL) concentrations rose for the initial 90 min and subsequently declined after 120 min; after 90 min of heating, the maximum yields in the absence of cysteine were 1151.04 ± 14.01 and 3386.90 ± 26.55 ng mL−1, respectively. The concentration of pyrraline (Pyr) increased after 30 min and then decreased after 60 min with a maximum yield of 777.68 ± 23.36 ng mL−1. However, in dry‐heating models, the AGE concentrations consistently increased with increasing heating time; the maximum yields for CML, CEL and Pyr were 468.66 ± 10.96, 1993.57 ± 14.81 and 1085.74 ± 58.06 ng mL−1, respectively. The addition of cysteine showed an inhibitory effect on AGE formation, especially for Pyr in the dry‐heating model, with inhibition rates ranging from 17.14% to 95.60%.

CONCLUSION

Although wet‐heating models produced more CML and CEL, they produced less Pyr than dry‐heating models. The AGE formation in wet‐heating models positively correlated with the reaction rate; however, the dry‐heating reaction demonstrated a more complex relationship between reaction rate and reaction protocol. Moreover, cysteine exhibited a significant inhibitory effect on AGE production, and the degree of inhibition was proportional to the cysteine concentration. This study provides important insights into the mechanisms for AGE formation under various heating conditions, such as those representing baking (dry‐heating) and steaming conditions (wet‐heating). © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Contemporary role of the plastic and reconstructive surgeon in the outcome of female peripelvic defects after oncologic extirpation
Authors: Shin Ashley , Elmorsi Rami , Nguyen Chris M. , Baumann Donald , Adelman David M. , Chang George J. , Skibber John , Roubaud Margaret S.
Published: November 2024

Background

Reconstruction of female oncologic peripelvic defects is challenging due to complex anatomy, neoadjuvant chemoradiation, operative resection margins, and wound healing risks. Functional restoration requires thoughtful management focused on defect reconstruction and patient‐reported outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of peripelvic reconstruction in female patients at MD Anderson Cancer Center from 2016 to 2023. Data collected included the patient's comorbidities, tumor characteristics, and reconstructive details. Complications were classified as nonoperative or operative within 30 days. Patient outcomes included hernia rates, sexual activity, and revision needs.

Results

In the study period, 164 patients underwent peripelvic defect reconstruction. Most had colorectal (57%), anal (17%), or gynecologic malignancies (10%). 83% had prior radiation. 33.3% had Class II or III obesity. The most common resection was open colorectal resection with partial vaginectomy (66%). Pedicled flaps (93%) were frequently used, mainly vertical rectus abdominis muscle (65%) and gracilis (11%). For multi‐visceral resections, abdominal‐based flaps were used in 95% of open cases and thigh‐based flaps in 88.9% of robotic cases. 51% had formal abdominal wall repair. Complications occurred in 47%, with 9.1% needing surgery. Postoperative hernias were reported in 4.9%, with 3% requiring repair. Approximately 11% reported being sexually active at the last follow‐up. Of those instructed on vaginal dilator therapy (42%), 24.6% were sexually active.

Conclusion

Peri‐pelvic soft tissue reconstruction in the oncologic population is safe. Operative complications and hernia rates are low. In robotic surgery, thigh‐based flaps are increasingly used to reconstruct the peripelvic region. Return to sexual activity is higher in patients when given dilator therapy instruction.
Molecular Classification of Endometrial Cancers Using an Integrative DNA Sequencing Panel
Authors: Kim Soyoun R. , Oldfield Leslie , Kim Raymond H. , Espin‐Garcia Osvaldo , Han Kathy , Vicus Danielle , Eiriksson Lua , Tone Alicia , Pollett Aaron , Cesari Matthew , Clarke Blaise , Bernardini Marcus Q. , Pugh Trevor J. , Ferguson Sarah E.
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives

Adoption of molecular classification in endometrial cancer (EC) into clinical practice remains challenging due to complexity in coordination of multiple assays. We aimed to develop a simple molecular technique to classify ECs into four subgroups using our custom‐designed targeted sequencing panel.

Methods

Patients with newly diagnosed ECs were prospectively recruited from three cancer centres in Ontario, Canada. Using our panel, 181 ECs were sequenced. Variants were analysed for pathogenicity and clinicopathologic information was collected through medical records retrospectively.

Results

Of 181, 86 (48%) were mismatch repair deficient (MMRd), of which 62 (72%) harboured MLH1 promoter methylation and 24 (28%) had pathogenic variants in MMR genes. Of single classifiers, three (1.8%) had pathogenic POLE (POLEmut), 15 (9%) had TP53 mutations (p53abn) and 61 (37%) had no specific molecular profile subtype (NSMP). Sixteen (9%) had more than one molecular classifying feature, with eight (4%) MMRd‐p53abn, six (3%) POLEmut‐MMRd, one (0.5%) POLEmut‐MMRd‐p53abn and one (0.5%) POLEmut‐p53abn. When MMRd group was further subclassified according to mechanism of MMR loss, MLH1 promoter methylated group had worse outcomes than those with somatic MMR pathogenic variants.

Conclusions

Our panel can classify ECs into four subgroups through a simplified process and can be implemented reflexively in clinical practice.
Thrombin Immobilized on Magnetic Core‐Shell Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Screening of the Enzyme Inhibitors From Notopterygium Incisum
Authors: Chang Qiang , He Kehang , Hu Yikao , Liu Yiming , Liao Xun
Published: November 2024

Thrombin was immobilized on magnetic core‐shell mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Fe3O4@nSiO2@mSiO2) for the first time and used to screen enzyme inhibitors from extracts of Notopterygium incisum. The immobilized thrombin was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electronic microscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, and vibrating sample magnetometry. The results demonstrated that the immobilized thrombin possessed good thermal stability and high‐temperature resistance for feasible storage and reuse. Two ligands, notopterol (1) and isoimperatorin (2) were fished out from the extract of N. incisum using the immobilized thrombin. They inhibited thrombin with IC50 values of 59.35 ± 1.420 and 107.8 ± 1.660 µM, respectively. This is the first report of thrombin‐inhibitory activity associated with notopterol and isoimperatorin. Meanwhile, the inhibition mechanism of both compounds was investigated by enzyme kinetic analysis and molecular docking. The method used enables rapid screening for thrombin inhibitors from medicinal plants, providing an efficient tool for the discovery of anti‐thrombotic active compounds.
Effect of neuromuscular control on the shoulder function of patients with healed rotator cuff and those with retear after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
Authors: Lee Jin Hyuck , Park Ji Soon , Jeong Woong Kyo
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To compare functional outcomes such as muscle strength, neuromuscular control and patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) between patients with healed rotator cuffs and those with retears after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR).

Methods

One hundred and nine patients who underwent arthroscopic RCR were included (85 in the healed group, 24 in the retear group). Shoulder muscle strength and neuromuscular control index (acceleration time [AT]) were evaluated using an isokinetic device. PROs were assessed using the pain visual analogue scale (VAS), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) scores. Continuous variables were compared using independent t tests. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify the influence of the predictor variables on the dependent variable.

Results

The muscle strength and ATs for external rotators (ERs), internal rotators (IRs) and forward flexors as well as PROs including VAS, SST and ASES scores, were not significantly different between the two groups pre‐ and postoperatively (n.s.). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that postoperative ATs for the IRs (p = 0.006) and ERs (p = 0.028) in the operated shoulders were closely associated with the postoperative UCLA score.

Conclusions

Compared with the healed group after arthroscopic RCR, the retear group had no clinically relevant differences in muscle strength, ATs and PROs, including VAS, SST, ASES and UCLA scores. However, postoperative ATs for IRs and ERs in the operated shoulders were a significant predictor of postoperative UCLA scores. Therefore, clinicians and therapists need to be aware of the importance of neuromuscular control in patients who have undergone arthroscopic RCR and prioritize therapeutic exercises to restore neuromuscular control.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Steering Nonlinear Chiral Valley Photons Through Optical Orbit–Orbit Coupling
Authors: Lin Hai , Zhang Guanyu , Xue Guodong , Xie Weichao , Zhu Wenguo , Liu Kaihui , Pan Zuojian , Gong Qihuang , Lyu Guowei
Published: November 2024

Two‐dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides feature a direct tunable bandgap and robust spin‐valley coupling, offering an additional valley degree of freedom for information carriers. While optical spin‐orbit coupling has traditionally facilitated valley manipulation, on‐chip control of nonlinear valley photons remains elusive. Here, the directional coupling of nonlinear chiral valley photons through optical orbit‐orbit coupling in monolayer tungsten disulfide at room temperature is demonstrated. The chirality of nonlinear valley photons is governed by the spin angular momentum of the pump light, adhering to nonlinear selection rules. Importantly, the coupling direction is controlled by the orbital angular momentum of the pump light, facilitated by the orbital momentum flux. This approach not only provides a novel method for manipulating the valley degree of freedom but also enhances the flexibility of directing valley photon emission and on‐chip routing. These developments hold promising prospects for advanced valley optoelectronic devices.
Copolymer Randomization by End‐Group Interchain Exchange Reactions
Authors: Kudryavtsev Yaroslav V.
Published: November 2024

Theoretical analysis of the kinetic scheme describing formation and randomization of a binary copolymer due to end‐group interchange reactions is presented. Compact analytical expressions are obtained for the transient and equilibrium values of the copolymer degree of blockiness and fractions of active end‐groups of different types. The resulting copolymer is described by the first‐order Markov statistics, which can be rather far from the Bernoullian one. Its structure is determined by the composition of the system and a single combination of the rate constants of four elementary reactions. The kinetics includes fast and slow stages with characteristic time periods independent of and proportional to the average polymerization degree, respectively. During the fast stage, the initial polymers disappear, whereas the copolymer degree of blockiness is still very low. The distribution of units in the copolymer is Markovian, only if the initial polymers possess the most probable molar mass distributions. At the slow stage copolymer randomization gradually progresses, whereas the distribution of end groups may change in the opposite direction compared to the fast stage. The results can be used to analyze the experimental data on the chain structure of condensation, metathesis, and dynamic covalent polymers, where interchange reactions play a significant role.
ZNF480 Accelerates Chemotherapy Resistance in Breast Cancer by Competing With TRIM28 and Stabilizing LSD1 to Upregulate the AKT‐GSK3β‐Snail Pathway
Authors: Ma Xiaowen , Jiang Yufeng , Zhao Hangqi , Qiu Yusong , Liu Zhijian , Zhang Xiupeng , Fan Mingwei , Zhang Yong , Zhang Yue
Published: November 2024

Zinc finger protein 480 (ZNF480) may interact with lysine‐specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), which is highly expressed in many malignant tumors; however, ZNF480 expression has not previously been investigated in breast cancer. Therefore, we explored the expression and molecular mechanisms of ZNF480 in breast cancer. According to public databases and immunohistochemical staining analysis, ZNF480 is highly expressed in the tissue of patients with breast cancer, and ZNF480 expression is positively correlated with advanced TNM stage (p = 0.036), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.012), and poor prognosis (p = 0.005). ZNF480 overexpression enhances breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, and stemness by activating AKT‐GSK3β‐Snail signaling both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, ZNF480 binds to LSD1 through its KRAB domain, thereby activating AKT signaling. Mass spectrometry and co‐immunoprecipitation revealed that ZNF480 abrogates ubiquitination degradation and subsequently stabilizes LSD1 through competitive binding with TRIM28. Ipragliflozin was identified as a small‐molecule inhibitor of ZNF480 and LSD1 interaction that may block breast cancer progression. Moreover, ZNF480 expression was significantly higher in treatment‐resistant patients than in treatment‐sensitive patients. Thus, ipragliflozin may neutralize neoadjuvant chemotherapy resistance induced by ZNF480 overexpression. Overall, elevated ZNF480 expression is positively associated with poor patient outcomes. Mechanistically, ZNF480 accelerates proliferation and neoadjuvant chemotherapy resistance in breast cancer cells via the AKT‐GSK3β‐Snail pathway by interacting with and stabilizing LSD1 in a competitive manner within TRIM28. This research has implications for developing targeted drugs against chemotherapy resistance in breast cancer.
CD137 Protein Expression Pattern Determines the Functional Role of Galectin‐9 in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Huang Yongping , Huang Xue , Zhu Zhengming , Wulamu Wubulikasimu , Huang Kai , Tang Dejun , Yu Jinlong
Published: November 2024

The rapid advancement of single‐cell sequencing technology has generated extensive data, providing critical resources for colorectal cancer (CRC) research. This study conducts a detailed analysis of CRC single‐cell sequencing data to develop a novel clinical prognostic tool and explore potential therapeutic targets for the LGALS9 gene. Using the Scissor algorithm, we created a CRC prognostic scoring system (SDRS) based on 13 key genes, with particular focus on LGALS9 and its protein, Galectin‐9, in mice CRC model with altered CD137 expression. Our findings demonstrate that the SDRS accurately reflects clinical and pathological features of CRC patients, acting as an independent predictor of outcomes. LGALS9 expression is generally reduced in CRC tissues and is associated with poorer prognosis. We also observed a strong positive correlation between LGALS9 and CD137 expression, with CD137 showing significant variability in CRC tissues. In mouse models with CD137 overexpression, Galectin‐9 treatment led to notable antitumor effects and increased infiltration of activated T cells. In contrast, in CD137‐deficient models, Galectin‐9 promoted tumor growth with limited T cell presence. These results suggest that the role of LGALS9 in CRC may depend on CD137 expression, highlighting the potential of LGALS9 as a therapeutic target. CD137 levels may serve as a key indicator for predicting the effectiveness of this treatment strategy.
Existence and asymptotic behavior of normalized solutions for fourth‐order equations of Kirchhoff type
Authors: Han Tao , Sun Hong‐Rui , Jin Zhen‐Feng
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we consider the following fourth‐order equation of Kirchhoff type

under the normalized constraint
, where
are constants,
and
is a Lagrange multiplier. Firstly, we obtain the existence of ground state solutions for
or
with
. Moreover, we show the nonexistence of solutions for
. Finally, we investigate the asymptotic behavior of normalized solutions obtained above with respect to the parameter
.
Pseudo‐differential operators associated with Gyrator transform on Sobolev space
Authors: Mahato Kanailal , Arya Shubhanshu
Published: November 2024

The main aim of this article is to focus on the fundamental properties of the gyrator transform on the Schwartz spaces. A more generalization Hörmander symbol class is introduced and studied the boundedness properties of pseudo‐differential operators associated with the gyrator transform. Integral representation and kernel of the pseudo‐differential operators are derived. It is shown that pseudo‐differential operators satisfies certain norm inequalities on Sobolev space. As an application, we have successfully applied the gyrator transform to solve heat equation and Fredholm integral equation.
Structural Elucidation and Complete NMR Spectral Assignments of Monascus Monacolin Analogs
Authors: Liu Jiachen , Xu Qingjiang , Wang Xin , Pan Ronghua , Zheng Lizhong , Zhang Yonghong , Shang Xiaoya , Wang Nan
Published: November 2024

One new monacolin analog, monacolin V (1), together with two new monacolin‐like natural products, 6‐hydroxyl monacolin P (2) and 3‐keto monacolin S (3), were isolated from the ethyl acetate portion of red yeast rice ethanol extract. Their structures were identified by HRESIMS and NMR experiments, and the complete assignments of 1H and 13C NMR data for three compounds were obtained by the aid of HSQC, HMBC, 1H‐1H COSY, and NOESY data. This is the first time that the NMR data of compounds 2 and 3 have been fully assigned.
Regional variations in hyperpolarized 129Xe lung MRI: Insights from CSI‐CSSR and CSSR in healthy and irradiated rat models
Authors: Ruppert Kai , Loza Luis , Hamedani Hooman , Ismail Mostafa , Chen Jiawei , Duncan Ian F. , Profka Harrilla , Kadlecek Stephen , Rizi Rahim R.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To compare pulmonary function metrics obtained with hyperpolarized xenon‐129 (HXe) MRS, using chemical shift saturation recovery (CSSR) and CSI‐CSSR, in healthy rats and a rat model of radiation‐induced lung injury.

Methods

HXe‐MR data were acquired in two healthy rats and one rat with radiation‐induced lung injury using whole‐lung spectroscopy and CSI‐CSSR techniques. The CSI‐CSSR acquisitions were performed with both fixed TE and variable TE. Apparent alveolar septal wall thickness, gas transfer dynamics, and regional lung function were quantified and compared across acquisition methods. Spectral analysis included alignment of dissolved‐phase frequency spectra using the membrane resonance as reference, segmentation of gas‐phase (GP) frequency distribution, and characterization of gas uptake in the vasculature.

Results

Complex GP line shapes were observed in rat lungs, necessitating pixel‐wise CSI analysis and membrane resonance alignment for improved quantification. Notable differences in alveolar septal wall thickness, dissolved‐phase GP ratios, and GP and red blood cell frequencies were found between acquisition techniques and lung conditions. CSI‐CSSR provided unique insights into regional lung function, including the identification of distinct GP frequency zones potentially corresponding to different airway structures, and the ability to map relative xenon gas transport. Metrics from fixed‐TE and variable‐TE acquisitions usually differed by less than 10%, but the latter yielded a 20% SNR gain.

Conclusion

HXe‐MRS and CSI‐CSSR techniques provide similar but not universally interchangeable insights into lung function, particularly in the presence of pathology.
How Do Surgical Interventions for Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Impact Quality of Life?
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Berto Fernanda Gabrigna , Welk Blayne
Published: November 2024

Objective

Adult patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) often have urinary symptoms that impact their quality of life (QOL). Our objective is to identify and summarize studies evaluating QOL changes across different NLUTD surgical interventions.

Methods

A systematic rapid evidence review was carried using EMBASE and MEDLINE. We included adult patients (> 18 years old) with NLUTD who underwent a relevant surgery and had a measurement of QOL. We included pre‐post study designs (primary focus) and cross‐sectional studies (secondary focus). Studies were reviewed and data extracted by multiple assessors. Standardized data extraction tables were used, and qualitative synthesis was performed.

Results

Of the 1074 screened articles 26 were included. There were 3/15 studies that evaluated reconstructive surgery (augmentation and/or catheterisable channel) pre‐post intervention (n = 94 patients); there was a 7%–28% relative improvement in bladder related and overall QOL using validated questionnaires, and a large magnitude of improvement in studies using unvalidated questionnaires. There were 3/7 studies that looked at urinary diversion pre‐post intervention (n = 153 patients) and showed an approximately 20%–60% improvement in validated questionnaires assessing bladder specific quality of life, and 0%–25% improvement in overall quality of life. Finally, 3/4 studies were pre‐post stress incontinence surgeries (n = 67 patients) and they found an improvement in the ICIQ questionnaire scores and study‐specific questionnaires.

Conclusion

The literature supporting a change in QOL in adult NLUTD patients undergoing surgical interventions is extremely limited due to a lack of pre‐post studies, and the frequent use of unvalidated outcome measures.
Role of Active Site and CO2‐Interacting Surface Species in Dry Reforming of Methane over Strontium Promoted Ni Catalyst Supported by Lanthanum‐Zirconia
Authors: Acharya Kenit , Al‐Fatesh Ahmed S. , Fakeeha Anis H. , Abasaeed Ahmed E. , Alothman Othman , Jan Hammad Ahmad , Alarifi Naif , Abu‐Dahrieh Jehad K. , Kumar Rawesh
Published: November 2024

In the context of global warming, the dry reforming of methane (DRM) has gained significant attention due to its ability to simultaneously deplete two greenhouse gases, i. e. CH4 and CO2, and generate syngas. Herein, strontium‐promoted Lanthanum‐zirconia supported Ni catalysts are investigated for DRM and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, surface area and porosity, FTIR‐RAMAN spectroscopy, and temperature‐programmed experiments. The Ni/LaZr catalyst contains formate and oxycarbonate‐like CO2‐interacting species, while strontium‐promoted catalysts have additional ionic CO32− species. The current catalyst system of 2 % strontium‐promoted Ni/LaZr has active sites derived from three types of NiO: easily reducible, moderately interacted, and strongly interacted. During the DRM reaction over the current system, CO2 is a better oxidant than O2 for removing carbon deposits. Additionally, the catalysts attain higher reducibility under oxidizing gas (CO2) and reducing gas (H2) during the DRM reaction. For optimal hydrogen yield of approximately 60 % within 420 minutes of operation over Ni2Sr/LaZr catalyst, a balance between the population of active site Ni and CO2‐interacting surface species is necessary.
Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic Onset on the Early Careers of Pediatric Oncology Health Professionals and Researchers: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group Young Investigators Committee, Young SIOP Network, and Young SIOPE
Authors: Bryan Gemma , Guolla Louise , Villanueva Gabriela Inés , Cohen‐Gogo Sarah , Casanovas Alejandra , Medina Rina , Revon‐Riviere Gabriel , Coltin Hallie , Kahalley Lisa S. , Withycombe Janice S. , van Ewijk Roelof , Schoot Reineke A. , Cash Thomas , Baertschiger Reto M. , McAleer Mary Frances , Benedetti Daniel J. , Greengard Emily , Kitko Carrie L. , Green Adam L. , Dhall Girish , Esbenshade Adam J.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic onset had a global debilitating impact on individuals and on burgeoning careers. In 2021, the Children's Oncology Group Young Investigators Committee, Young SIOP (International Society of Paediatric Oncology) Network, and Young SIOPE (European Society for Paediatric Oncology) co‐sponsored a survey to explore the impacts of the first year of the pandemic on early‐career pediatric oncology professionals with respect to working practices, productivity, professional and career development, personal wellbeing, and changing childcare needs.

Methods

The survey comprised demographic, multiple‐choice, and free‐text questions, and was distributed via email and social media with English, French, and Spanish versions available. Descriptive statistics and chi‐square tests were used to compare quantitative data by self‐designated gender and country of origin. Qualitative data were described using content analysis.

Results

Professionals (N = 499, 26.3% male, 77.2% MDs) in 48 countries (77.6% high income) responded in English (79.4%), Spanish (12.4%), and French (8.2%). Respondents had difficulty obtaining and keeping jobs (26.9%), worsened overall academic productivity (50.7%, with higher rates among bench scientists, p < 0.01), and decreased career opportunities (40.9%). Childcare challenges impacted 56.7% of respondents and was felt more negatively among women (p = 0.008) and in high‐income settings (p < 0.0001). Qualitative data (n = 300) highlighted these differences were often attributable to diminished professional/personal boundaries and impacted their personal wellbeing.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic significantly impacted early‐career academic and clinical professionals working in pediatric oncology, with unique challenges noted among those with childcare responsibilities. Career disruptions that resulted from the pandemic should be considered and mitigated by governing bodies and hiring institutions.
Late Events Occurring After 5 Years in Pediatric Rhabdomyosarcoma: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Kreimer Sara , Xue Wei , Qumseya Amira , Lautz Timothy B. , Shenoy Archana , Hiniker Susan , Casey Dana , Venkatramani Rajkumar , Arndt Carola
Published: November 2024

Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma, and 5‐year overall survival exceeds 70%. With more long‐term survivors, it is critical to understand the frequency of late events, including recurrence, second malignant neoplasm, and death, occurring 5 years after diagnosis, and the variables associated with these events. We report late events in patients enrolled on Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study Group and Children's Oncology Group trials from 1997 to 2013 including D9602, D9803, D9802, ARST0331, ARST0431, ARST0531, and ARST08P1. A late event occurred in 2.9% of 5‐year event‐free survivors supporting guidelines to limit surveillance for these events to 5 years from diagnosis.
Impact of Neighborhood Disadvantage on Preventive and Acute Care Utilization in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Catanzarite Ashley , Bouck Jillian R. , Matthes Megan , Goubeaux Derrick L. , Carter Allie , LaMotte Julia E. , Jacob Seethal A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) experience significant healthcare disparities; however, there is little known on the impact of psychosocial stressors and neighborhood disadvantage on preventive and acute care utilization in this population.

Procedure

A retrospective data collection was performed for all patients cared for at a comprehensive pediatric sickle cell center in the Midwest who had also completed the Psychosocial Assessment Tool (PAT), a validated caregiver‐reported measurement of family psychosocial risk, from September 2021 through December 2022. Patient age, payor, primary language, frequency of acute and missed preventive care visits, as well as Area Deprivation Index (ADI) and Childhood Opportunity Index (COI) scores were collected for 256 patients.

Results

The average state ADI was 6.3 (±2.9), and the majority of patients were in the Very Low or Low COI categories. Total PAT score (p = 0.003), state ADI (p < 0.001), and state COI (p < 0.001) were all significantly correlated with missed SCD clinic visits, with increased odds of a missed visit with increasing neighborhood disadvantage (OR 1.22, p < 0.001). The odds of acute care were also increased in those with higher family psychosocial risk (OR 1.76, p < 0.011), though this was not seen with ADI or COI, suggesting an additional effect of family stressors and resilience on acute care utilization.

Conclusions

This highlights the importance of regular, universal social and psychological risk screening, as well as inclusion of psychosocial team members in SCD programs to identify and readily address risk factors that impact child outcomes in a minoritized chronic disease population.
Biologics Used for Psoriasis: A Drug Utilization Study Based on Two Nationwide Danish Data Sources
Authors: Engel‐Andreasen Nanna Philbert , Hallas Jesper , Jensen Peter , Egeberg Alexander , Reilev Mette
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Biological treatment has been a game changer in the management of moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis. In Denmark, biological treatment for psoriasis is registered in two data sources. We aimed to describe the utilization of biologics for psoriasis in Denmark using data from both data sources separately.

Methods

We used data from two different nationwide Danish data sources: The healthcare registries and the clinical quality database, Dermbio. Utilization patterns were described by three different parameters: (1) distribution of drugs used in the first treatment episodes, (2) treatment cascade on a population level, and (3) drug survival using Kaplan Meier (KM) analysis and the proportion of patients covered (PPC) method.

Results

From January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2018, we found 1878 users of biologics in the healthcare registries and 2264 in Dermbio. Adalimumab, ustekinumab, and secukinumab were the most common first‐choice treatments throughout the study period. According to the healthcare registries, it was most common to have more than one treatment episode with the same drug. In Dermbio, most were registered to have only one observable treatment episode overall in the study period. Ustekinumab showed the longest drug survival in both databases. Drug survival was longer for all biologics in Dermbio than in the healthcare registries.

Conclusion

Adalimumab, ustekinumab, and secukinumab were the most common first‐choice treatments in Denmark. Overall, ustekinumab showed the longest drug survival. We observed important differences in treatment cascades and drug survival between Dermbio and the healthcare registries, which should be considered when using these data sources to perform drug utilization studies on biologics.
Advancing optical transparency in 3D‐printed PLA parts using chemical post‐processing
Authors: Kumar Atish , Kumar Narendra , Puttapati Sampath Kumar
Published: November 2024

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is an increasingly popular three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology known for its ability to produce complex 3D models at a low‐cost using polymer materials. Despite its advantages, the poor surface finish and high layer resolution in FFF‐printed parts have hindered its wider adoption, particularly for applications requiring high transparency. Thus, the current study investigates the transparency evaluation of chemically post‐processed 3D‐printed transparent polylactic acid (PLA) parts, focusing on enhancing optical transparency. Fused Filament Fabrication was employed to produce transparent parts made from PLA filament, which were subsequently treated at various time settings using various solvents, including tetrahydrofuran (THF), chloroform or trichloromethane (TCM), and ethyl acetate (EA). This study examines the impact of chemical post‐processing on the surface roughness, transparency, mechanical properties, and dimensional accuracy of solvent treated parts. It has been found that the THF solvent with 40 s of immersion time resulted in a maximum transmittance of 74.66% and minimum surface roughness of 1.777 μm. Based on this finding a case study was also conducted to apply the findings of the current investigation to a practical application. The findings highlight the potential of chemical‐based post‐processing techniques to improve the optical properties of 3D printed PLA, offering a promising approach for applications in optics, medical devices, and consumer goods requiring transparent components.

Highlights

Effect of chemical post‐processing on 3D‐printed PLA parts was investigated.

Tetrahydrofuran, chloroform, and ethyl acetate were used as solvents.

Surface roughness, transparency, hardness, and dimensional accuracy were analyzed.

Reported a maximum transmittance of 74.66% and minimum surface roughness of 1.777 μm.
Pediatric physiotherapy management of airway clearance therapy and exercise: Data from the Australian Bronchiectasis Registry
Authors: Webb Elizabeth M. , Holland Anne E. , Chang Anne B. , Middleton Peter G. , Thomson Rachel , Wong Conroy , Jayaram Lata , Holmes‐Liew Chien‐Li , Morgan Lucy , Lee Annemarie L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Regular airway clearance techniques (ACTs) and exercise are recommended for children with bronchiectasis, but current clinical practice and their predictors are unknown.

Objective

We aimed to describe current use of ACTs and exercise among Australian children with bronchiectasis and identify associated predictors.

Methods

Physiotherapy‐specific data of 397 children (median age = 8 were extracted from the Australian Bronchiectasis Registry. A multivariate analysis was undertaken to identify predictors associated with the use of regular ACTs and physical exercise.

Results

Regular ACTs were undertaken by 118 (30%) children while 192 (48%) engaged in regular exercise. Physical exercise was the most common ACT modality (n = 83, 20%). The likelihood of regular ACT increased in children whose sputum isolated Pseudomonas aeruginosa (OR = 3.88, 95% CI 1.69–8.89) and was 50% higher for every respiratory exacerbation in the previous 12‐months that required hospitalization (OR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.15–1.95). For every year older in age, children had increased odds of engaging in physical exercise (OR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.08–1.34) or using an ACT device (OR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.05–1.34). Regular exercise was twice as likely in the presence of bibasal bronchiectasis (OR = 2.43, 95% CI 1.14‐5.16), yet less likely in those with ≥1 hospitalizations in the previous 12‐months (OR = 0.76, 0.95% CI 0.57–1.03).

Conclusion

Approximately one‐third of children with bronchiectasis undertake regular ACTs while physical exercise was undertaken in approximately one in two children. Age, frequent respiratory exacerbations requiring hospitalization and the extent of disease are predictors of undertaking regular ACTs and exercise. Identification of these factors may assist in tailoring ACT, exercise and ACT modality prescription in clinical practice.
Azithromycin for Preventing Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Extremely Preterm Infants: A Cohort Study
Authors: Zeng Yali , Huang Zhifeng , Wang Yanqiong , Lin Binchun , Zhao Depeng , Yang Chuanzhong , Chen Xueyu
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To test the effect of azithromycin in reducing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) risk in extremely preterm infants (EPI) without pulmonary infection.

Study Design

A retrospective cohort study was performed in EPI in a tertiary unit from September 2018 to September 2022. Since only Ureaplasma species positive infants were treated with azithromycin, we included infants without Ureaplasma species (no azithromycin treatment) and those diagnosed with Ureaplasma species colonization (azithromycin treatment) in the study, while infants with Ureaplasma species pneumonia were excluded. The primary outcome was grade II+ BPD, defined as BPD of grade II or higher according to the updated NICHD criteria (2018). Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent association between grade II+ BPD and azithromycin treatment.

Results

A total of 237 EPIs were included in the current study, of which 202 infants were classified as no azithromycin treatment (Ureaplasma species negative) and 35 infants were classified as azithromycin treatment (Ureaplasma species colonization). Clinical characteristics were similar between groups. Infants treated with azithromycin had a significantly lower rate of grade II+ BPD (8.6% vs. 31.2%, p = 0.006), and shorter duration of invasive ventilation (0 vs. 3 days, p = 0.045) compared to untreated ones. After adjusting for confounders, azithromycin treatment was significantly associated with reduced risk of grade II+ BPD in the whole cohort (odd ratio [OR] 0.211, 95% CI: 0.056, 0.786, p = 0.020], and infants absent of other pulmonary infection (OR 0.115, 95% CI: 0.014, 0.979, p = 0.048).

Conclusion

Azithromycin is associated with a reduced risk of grade II+ BPD in EPIs, likely due to its anti‐inflammatory effect.
Baseline Impulse Oscillometry Metrics Differentiate Asthmatic Children From Non‐Asthmatic Children Across Ethnicity/Race: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kim Iris , Shin Hye‐Won , Galant Stanley
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Identifying the asthmatic early to prevent permanent airway remodeling and the progression of the disease is desirable. In children, baseline impulse oscillometry has been found effective in identifying asthma in some studies but not others.

Objective

The purpose of our study was to utilize a meta‐analysis to determine whether there were significant peripheral airway differences between asthmatic and non‐asthmatic children across ethnicity/race, utilizing baseline impulse oscillometry (IOS) to establish its usefulness as a diagnostic tool in this age group.

Methods

This was a comprehensive search of published literature on pediatric oscillometric studies evaluating younger children (mean age ranging from 4.3 to 6 years) and older children (mean age ranging from 8.7 to 11.4 years) from the United States, Europe, Asia, and Middle East. Inclusion criteria required the primary variable resistance at 5 Hertz (R5) (kPa/L/s) or (cmH2O/L/s) for both control and asthmatic subjects, and excluded studies if asthmatics had uncontrolled disease.

Results

Our data show that there are significantly higher R5 and area of reactance (AX) and lower reactance at 5 Hertz (X5) in both younger and older asthmatic children compared to healthy controls from various countries.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis firmly establishes that baseline oscillometry metrics, resistance and reactance, are effective in identifying the asthmatic child across age and the ethnicities/races evaluated.
Efficacy of whole body vibration on fascicle length and joint angle in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy
Authors: Ali Mostafa S. , Saleh Marwa S. , Awad Ahmed S.
Published: November 2024

Background and Objective

Enhancing joint range of motion is regarded as one of the most long‐term goals in the management of cerebral palsy (CP). With CP, there are well‐documented changes in the neurological drive to skeletal muscle, which leads to modifications in the architecture of the muscles. Whole‐body vibration (WBV) is one intervention to modify muscle and joint. However, its efficacy needs to be accurately studied. This study investigates the effects of WBV on fascicle length, knee joint angle and function in children with spastic hemiplegic CP.

Methods

Eighty children with hemiplegic CP aged 4–6 years were enrolled. Participants were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The control group received a designated physical therapy program and the experimental group received a designated physical therapy program in addition to WBV. Program was performed 3 times a week for 12 weeks. Goniometry, ultrasonography and gross motor function measurements were used to measure knee extension joint angle, fascicle length of hamstrings and function, respectively.

Results

The results of this study indicated that, designed physical therapy program with WBV could increase the active range of motion in knee extension (p = 0.001) and fascicle length of hamstring (p = 0.001) muscles as well as improve function in children with hemiplegic CP (p = 0.001).

Implication for Physiotherapy Practice

According to the findings, the use of WBV can be considered as an effective treatment in increasing the range of motion of knee extension and fascicle length and finally improving function in children with CP.