bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL‐1Ra deficiency accelerates intervertebral disc degeneration in C57BL6J mice
Authors: Swamy Ganesh , Salo Paul , Duncan Neil , Jirik Frank , Matyas John
Published: April 2022

The expression of Interleukin‐1ß (IL‐1ß) and its antagonist and Interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) are correlated with greater human intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, suggesting that elevated IL‐1β activity promotes disc degeneration. Many in vitro studies support such a mechanistic relationship, whereas few in vivo investigations have been reported. The present study tests the effect of increased IL‐1β activity on intervertebral disc in mice with an IL‐1Ra gene deletion.

IL‐1Ra−/− mice and wild‐type (WT) C57Bl6J mice were examined at 3 and 12 months of age. Caudal IVD segments were evaluated for disc degeneration by histopathology, functional testing, and inflammatory gene expression relevant to IL‐1β pathways. To test differences in injury response, pinprick annular puncture was performed on IL‐1Ra−/− and WT mice and evaluated similarly.

IL‐1Ra−/− IVDs had significantly worse histopathology at 3 months compared to WT controls, but not at 12 months. IL‐1Ra−/− IVDs exhibited significantly more viscous mechanical properties than WT IVDs. qPCR revealed downregulation of inflammatory genes at 3 and 12 months in IL‐1Ra−/− IVDs, with concomitant downregulation of anabolic and catabolic genes. Annular puncture yielded no appreciable differences between 2‐week and 6‐week post‐injured WT and IL1‐Ra−/− IVDs in histopathology or biomechanics, but inflammatory gene expression was sharply downregulated in IL‐1Ra−/− mice at 2 weeks, returning by 6 weeks post injury.

In the present study, IL‐1Ra deletion resulted in increased IVD histopathology, inferior biomechanics, and transiently decreased pro‐inflammatory cytokine gene expression. The histopathology of IL‐1Ra−/− IVDs on a C57BL/6J background is less severe than a previous report of IL1Ra−/− on a BALB/c background, yet both strains exhibit IVD degeneration, reinforcing a mechanistic role of IL‐1β signaling in IVD pathobiology. Despite a pro‐inflammatory environment, the annular puncture was no worse in IL‐1Ra−/− mice, suggesting that response to injury involves pathways other than inflammation. Overall, this study supports the hypothesis that IL‐1β‐driven inflammation is important in IVD degeneration.
Analysis of β‐blockers and β2‐agonists in environmental and biological samples by magnetic solid‐phase extraction combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Han , Zhao Xiaoya , Xu Jiawen , Wang Peng , Chen Xinyan , Liao Xiaoli , Zhan Chenyong
Published: April 2022

β‐Blockers and β2‐agonists are commonly prescribed for therapeutic treatments and are also administered to livestock, leading to their presence in both environmental and biological samples. Hence, the development of sensitive, rapid, and reliable analytical methods for the determination of β‐blockers and β2‐agonists in environmental and biological samples is important. In this study, MIL‐101(Cr)‐NH2&GO‐coated SiO2/Fe3O4 magnetic particles were prepared as sorbents for magnetic solid‐phase extraction and then combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry for the analysis of 20 β‐blockers and eight β2‐agonists. The experimental parameters of magnetic solid‐phase extraction were studied in detail, and the optimal conditions were established. Under optimal conditions, the limits of detection were in the range of 0.002–0.007 μg/L with enrichment factors of 20.2–24.9. The developed method was successfully applied for the determination of 20 β‐blockers and eight β2‐agonists in river water, human urine, and freeze‐dried pork liver powder. Bisoprolol and salbutamol were detected at concentrations of 2.78 mg/L in human urine and 11.5 μg/kg in freeze‐dried pork liver powder.
The impact of eczema involving visible areas of the skin on patients' quality of life
Authors: Hang Li , Saint Aroman Marketa , Taieb Charles , Baissac Catherine , Merhand Stephanie , Ortiz‐Brugués Ariadna , Torrelo Antonio
Published: April 2022

Rational

Many studies have evaluated the impact of eczema according to the established severity. However, the specific impact of the location of eczema on the quality of life (QoL) has not been assessed.

Objective

In the present study, we focus on the burden of disease caused by the involvement of atopic dermatitis (AD) on visible areas of the face and hands.

Methodology

This study mobilized for each of the six countries where it was implemented (Canada, China, Italy, Spain, Germany and France), targeting a representative sample according to the quota method of their population aged 18 years and over. QoL was assessed through the QoL index (DLQI).

Results

We identified 801 people who reported having suffered exclusively from AD in the past 12 months. Overall, 31.7% (n = 257) of the population considered their skin disease to be embarrassing with consequences in their personal life. Regarding stigmata, 15.7% (n = 126) of people with eczema felt rejected, 15.5% (n = 124) felt they were looked at with disgust and 33.1% (n = 265) expressed a sense of discouragement. A significant impact was observed in 31.5% (n = 145) of patients who had visible damage versus 12.3% (n = 42) of patients with no visible damage (p < 0.0001). The difference was also significant (p < 0.001) when the average DLQI was assessed (6.6 vs. 4.8).

Discussion

The degradation of the QoL by AD is maximal when the hands and the face are affected simultaneously. The impact is also significantly higher when the hands are exclusively affected (compared to the face). The impact on the QoL is strongly linked to the experience and the lived experience of each patient, and the stigmata of the patients and their feelings of rejection are obvious. Surprisingly, exclusive hand involvement caused a higher impact in QoL than exclusive face involvement. Simultaneous involvement of the face and hands greatly amplifies the deterioration in QoL
MiR‐708‐5p/Pit‐1 axis mediates high phosphate‐induced calcification in vascular smooth muscle cells via Wnt8b/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Wu Na , Liu Guo‐Bing , Zhang Yu‐Min , Wang Yong , Zeng Hai‐Tao , Xiang Hui
Published: April 2022

Recently, the underlying mechanism of vascular calcification (VC) has been partially elucidated. However, it is still high incidence, and no effective treatment has been found. This study aims at figuring out the underlying mechanisms of microRNA‐708‐5p (miR‐708‐5p)/sodium‐phosphate transporter 1 (Pit‐1) axis in high phosphate (HP)‐induced VC of T/G HA‐VSMCs. Alizarin Red S staining was used to evaluate calcium salt deposition, and the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was determined by measuring the absorbance at 405 nm. RT‐qPCR and Western blot were performed to assess the levels of miR‐708‐5p and Pit‐1, the levels of ALP, Pit‐1, β‐catenin, glycogen synthesis kinase 3 β (GSK3β), and p‐GSK3β proteins, respectively. The interaction between miR‐708‐5p and Pit‐1 was validated by luciferase reporter assay. Our findings illustrated that miR‐708‐5p was downregulated and Pit‐1was upregulated in HP‐induced VC. MiR‐708‐5p mimics inhibited HP‐induced VC. Further experiments demonstrated that miR‐708‐5p targets Pit‐1. In addition, miR‐708‐5p inactivates the Wnt8b/β‐catenin pathway via targeting Pit‐1 to reduce HP‐induced VC. MiR‐708‐5p has a crucial effect on VC via targeting Pit‐1 and inhibiting Wnt8b/β‐catenin pathway, it may serve as a new target for VC treatment.
Impact of esthesioneuroblastoma treatment delays on overall patient survival
Authors: Tsutsumi Kotaro , Ahmed Khwaja H. , Goshtasbi Khodayar , Torabi Sina J. , Mohyeldin Ahmed , Hsu Frank P.K. , Kuan Edward C.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To characterize clinical factors associated with esthesioneuroblastoma treatment delays and determine the impact of these delays on overall survival.

Study Design

Retrospective database analysis.

Methods

The 2004–2016 National Cancer Database was queried for patients with esthesioneuroblastoma managed by primary surgery and adjuvant radiation. Durations of diagnosis‐to‐treatment initiation (DTI), diagnosis‐to‐treatment end (DTE), surgery‐to‐RT initiation (SRT), radiotherapy treatment (RTD), and total treatment package (TTP) were analyzed. The cohort was split into two groups for each delay interval using the median time as the threshold.

Results

A total of 814 patients (39.6% female, 88.5% white) with mean ± SD age of 52.6 ± 15.1 years who underwent both esthesioneuroblastoma surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy were queried. Median DTI, DTE, SRT, RTD, and TTP were 34, 140, 55, 45, and 101 days, respectively. A significant association was identified between increased regional radiation dose above 66 Gy and decreased DTI (OR = 0.54, 95% CI 0.35–0.83, p = 0.01) and increased RTD (OR = 3.94, 95% CI 2.36–6.58, p < 0.001) durations. Chemotherapy administration was linked with decreased SRT (OR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.47–0.89, p = 0.01) and TTP (OR = 0.59, 95% CI 0.43–0.82, p = 0.001) durations. Cox proportional‐hazards analysis revealed that increased RTD was associated with decreased survival (HR = 1.80, 95% CI 1.26–2.57, p < 0.005), independent of age, sex, race, regional radiation dose, facility volume, facility type, insurance status, modified Kadish stage, chemotherapy status, Charlson‐Deyo comorbidity index, and surgical margins.

Conclusions

Delays during, and prolongation of radiotherapy for esthesioneuroblastoma appears to be associated with decreased survival.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:764–772, 2023
Visible‐Wavelength Spatiotemporal Mode‐Locked Fiber Laser Delivering 9 ps, 4 nJ Pulses at 635 nm
Authors: Ruan Qiujun , Xiao Xiaosheng , Zou Jinhai , Wang Hang , Fan Shuzheng , Li Tianran , Li Jin , Dong Zhipeng , Cai Zhiping , Luo Zhengqian
Published: April 2022

Spatiotemporal mode‐locking (STML) in fiber lasers are of interest in applications such as optical communications, nonlinear imaging, and precision machining. To date, STML fiber lasers in the near‐infrared region have been well demonstrated, yet operation at visible wavelengths is still challenging. Here, a STML picosecond fiber laser at 635 nm with the implementation of Pr/Yb co‐doped few‐mode fiber and nonlinear polarization rotation technology is reported. By solving the modified generalized multimode nonlinear Schrödinger equation, the 635 nm STML formation is theoretically predicted and analyzed. The stable 635 nm STML with a 9 ps pulse duration, which is two orders of magnitude narrower than previously reported, is realized experimentally. Moreover, spatiotemporal profiles are illustrated by investigating the locking of transverse and longitudinal modes simultaneously. By further establishing visible ultrafast fiber amplifier, the 635 nm average power is boosted up to 440 mW, corresponding to a maximum pulse energy and peak power of 4 nJ and 280 W, respectively. The experimental results are in good agreement with the numerical simulations. This work helps to understand nonlinear dynamics in STML fiber laser and directly generate large‐energy ultrashort pulses in visible  region.
Carbon Nanotube Anchored Organic Hydrogel for Soft Sensors
Authors: Han Libin , Qu Rui , Chen Dongsheng , Liu Lei , Xu Huidi , Zhang Zhuanzhuan , Zhao Yuze , Song Xiaofeng
Published: April 2022

Flexible hydrogel sensors are receiving increasing attentions due to their application in human–machine interaction. However, there are great challenges for developing hydrogel strain sensors such as the asymmetry among excellent mechanics properties, high conductivity, resistance to solvent volatilization, and frost resistance. An organic hydrogel is prepared by associating physicochemical driving process with binary medium. That is, acrylamide (AAm) and vinyl acetate (VAc) polymerize in the water/dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solution of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/hydroxylated multi‐walled carbon nanotube (mCNT‐OH). The organic hydrogel sensor not only has good tensile strength, resistance to freezing, and solvent volatility, but also exhibits excellent strain sensitivity (GF = 6.39 in the range of 200–560%) due to the mCNT‐OH forming conductive pathway. Its response and recovery time are 80 and 60 ms, respectively. The strain sensitivity does not decline after 260 cyclic stretches at 200% strain. The organic hydrogel sensor can steadily trace large and subtle human motions. Then it is promising in the application of human–machine interface like aphasiac, physical exercise, or rehabilitation.
Parkin Deficiency Impairs Mitochondrial DNA Dynamics and Propagates Inflammation
Authors: Wasner Kobi , Smajic Semra , Ghelfi Jenny , Delcambre Sylvie , Prada‐Medina Cesar A. , Knappe Evelyn , Arena Giuseppe , Mulica Patrycja , Agyeah Gideon , Rakovic Aleksandar , Boussaad Ibrahim , Badanjak Katja , Ohnmacht Jochen , Gérardy Jean‐Jacques , Takanashi Masashi , Trinh Joanne , Mittelbronn Michel , Hattori Nobutaka , Klein Christine , Antony Paul , Seibler Philip , Spielmann Malte , Pereira Sandro L. , Grünewald Anne
Published: April 2022

Background

Mutations in the E3 ubiquitin ligase parkin cause autosomal recessive Parkinson's disease (PD). Together with PTEN‐induced kinase 1 (PINK1), parkin regulates the clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria. New mitochondria are generated through an interplay of nuclear‐ and mitochondrial‐encoded proteins, and recent studies suggest that parkin influences this process at both levels. In addition, parkin was shown to prevent mitochondrial membrane permeability, impeding mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) escape and subsequent neuroinflammation. However, parkin's regulatory roles independent of mitophagy are not well described in patient‐derived neurons.

Objectives

We sought to investigate parkin's role in preventing neuronal mtDNA dyshomeostasis, release, and glial activation at the endogenous level.

Methods

We generated induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)–derived midbrain neurons from PD patients with parkin (PRKN) mutations and healthy controls. Live‐cell imaging, proteomic, mtDNA integrity, and gene expression analyses were employed to investigate mitochondrial biogenesis and genome maintenance. To assess neuroinflammation, we performed single‐nuclei RNA sequencing in postmortem tissue and quantified interleukin expression in mtDNA/lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐treated iPSC‐derived neuron–microglia co‐cultures.

Results

Neurons from patients with PRKN mutations revealed deficits in the mitochondrial biogenesis pathway, resulting in mtDNA dyshomeostasis. Moreover, the energy sensor sirtuin 1, which controls mitochondrial biogenesis and clearance, was downregulated in parkin‐deficient cells. Linking mtDNA disintegration to neuroinflammation, in postmortem midbrain with PRKN mutations, we confirmed mtDNA dyshomeostasis and detected an upregulation of microglia overexpressing proinflammatory cytokines. Finally, parkin‐deficient neuron–microglia co‐cultures elicited an enhanced immune response when exposed to mtDNA/LPS.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that parkin coregulates mitophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis, and mtDNA maintenance pathways, thereby protecting midbrain neurons from neuroinflammation and degeneration. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
New blow‐up criteria for a semilinear pseudo‐parabolic equation with general nonlinearity
Authors: Li Xiatong , Fang Zhong Bo
Published: April 2022

This paper is concerned with the blow‐up phenomena for a semilinear pseudo‐parabolic equation with general nonlinearity under the null Dirichlet boundary condition. When the nonlinearity satisfies a new structural condition, we obtain some new blow‐up criteria with different initial energy levels and derive the growth estimations and life span of blow‐up solutions.
Registration‐guided deep learning image segmentation for cone beam CT–based online adaptive radiotherapy
Authors: Ma Lin , Chi Weicheng , Morgan Howard E. , Lin Mu‐Han , Chen Mingli , Sher David , Moon Dominic , Vo Dat T. , Avkshtol Vladimir , Lu Weiguo , Gu Xuejun
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Adaptive radiotherapy (ART), especially online ART, effectively accounts for positioning errors and anatomical changes. One key component of online ART process is accurately and efficiently delineating organs at risk (OARs) and targets on online images, such as cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Direct application of deep learning (DL)‐based segmentation to CBCT images suffered from issues such as low image quality and limited available contour labels for training. To overcome these obstacles to online CBCT segmentation, we propose a registration‐guided DL (RgDL) segmentation framework that integrates image registration algorithms and DL segmentation models.

Methods

The RgDL framework is composed of two components: image registration and RgDL segmentation. The image registration algorithm transforms/deforms planning contours that were subsequently used as guidance by the DL model to obtain accurate final segmentations. We had two implementations of the proposed framework—Rig‐RgDL (Rig for rigid body) and Def‐RgDL (Def for deformable)—with rigid body (RB) registration or deformable image registration (DIR) as the registration algorithm, respectively, and U‐Net as the DL model architecture. The two implementations of RgDL framework were trained and evaluated on seven OARs in an institutional clinical head‐and‐neck dataset.

Results

Compared to the baseline approaches using the registration or the DL alone, RgDLs achieved more accurate segmentation, as measured by higher mean Dice similarity coefficients (DSCs) and other distance‐based metrics. Rig‐RgDL achieved a DSC of 84.5% on seven OARs on average, higher than RB or DL alone by 4.5% and 4.7%. The average DSC of Def‐RgDL was 86.5%, higher than DIR or DL alone by 2.4% and 6.7%. The inference time required by the DL model component to generate final segmentations of seven OARs was less than 1 s in RgDL. By examining the contours from RgDLs and DL case by case, we found that RgDL was less susceptible to image artifacts. We also studied how the performances of RgDL and DL vary with the size of the training dataset. The DSC of DL dropped by 12.1% as the number of training data decreased from 22 to 5, whereas RgDL only dropped by 3.4%.

Conclusion

By incorporating the patient‐specific registration guidance to a population‐based DL segmentation model, RgDL framework overcame the obstacles associated with online CBCT segmentation, including low image quality and insufficient training data, and achieved better segmentation accuracy than baseline methods. The resulting segmentation accuracy and efficiency show promise for applying this RgDL framework for online ART.
Propagation characteristics of flexural wave and the reflection from vertical cracks during pipe‐pile integrity testing
Authors: Lu Zhitang , Wang Zhiliang , Liu Dongjia , Xiong Feng , Ma Haichun , Tan Xiaohui
Published: April 2022

The propagation characteristics of F‐(flexural) wave and the reflection from vertical cracks in pipe‐piles subjected to an eccentric vertical excitation were numerically investigated using elastodynamic finite integration technique (EFIT). The accuracy of the self‐written code was validated by comparing computed results against the measured data. The snapshots of circumferential, radial and vertical velocities in intact and cracked pipe‐piles, as well as the velocity histories of the pile‐top were presented. It is found that not only L‐(longitudinal) wave (corresponding to axisymmetric mode) but also F‐wave (corresponding to non‐axisymmetric mode) can be excited in pipe‐piles subjected to an eccentric vertical excitation. F‐wave causes motion in all directions, while L‐wave only causes vertical motion. The three‐dimensional (3‐D) interference is weak at 90° away from the excitation position for circumferential velocity response, while at 45° or 135° for radial velocity response. The reflected F‐wave (RFW) from the pipe‐toe has multiple peaks due to the dispersion effect of F‐wave. Reflection occurs when F‐wave encounters vertical cracks, while L‐wave is not sensitive to vertical cracks. The intensity of RFW from vertical cracks varies with excitation‐and‐sensor modes. For shallow vertical cracks, the RFW strength varies with the sensor positions; while the intensity of the RFW caused by deep vertical cracks varies little with the sensor positions. With the increase of crack length, the strength of the first arrival RFW due to the vertical crack has no obvious change; however, the strength of RFW from the pile‐toe decreases.
Tensor completion using geodesics on Segre manifolds
Authors: Swijsen Lars , Van der Veken Joeri , Vannieuwenhoven Nick
Published: April 2022

We propose a Riemannian conjugate gradient algorithm for approximating incomplete tensors by canonical polyadic decompositions of low rank. Our main contribution consists of an explicit expression for an almost everywhere complete set of geodesics of the Segre manifold of rank‐1 tensors. These are leveraged in our Riemannian optimization algorithm over a geometrically convenient parametrization of rank‐ tensors to move in the direction of a tangent vector over the ‐fold product of Segre manifolds. We apply our method to movie rating predictions in a recommender system for the MovieLens dataset, and for identifying pure fluorophores via fluorescent spectroscopy with missing data. In this last application, we can recover the tensor decomposition from only of the data. In our numerical experiments, the proposed Riemannian conjugate gradient algorithm was competitive with a state‐of‐the‐art quasi‐Newton method with truncated conjugate gradient inner solves from Tensorlab in terms of accuracy and could reduce the computation time by half.
Machine learning‐accelerated gradient‐based Markov chain Monte Carlo inversion applied to electrical resistivity tomography
Authors: Aleardi Mattia , Vinciguerra Alessandro , Stucchi Eusebio , Hojat Azadeh
Published: April 2022

Expensive forward model evaluations and the curse of dimensionality usually hinder applications of Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms to geophysical inverse problems. Another challenge of these methods is related to the definition of an appropriate proposal distribution that simultaneously should be inexpensive to manipulate and a good approximation of the posterior density. Here we present a gradient‐based Markov chain Monte Carlo inversion algorithm that is applied to cast the electrical resistivity tomography into a probabilistic framework. The sampling is accelerated by exploiting the Hessian and gradient information of the negative log‐posterior to define a proposal that is a local, Gaussian approximation of the target posterior probability. On the one hand, the computing time to run the many forward evaluations needed for both the data likelihood evaluation and the Hessian and gradient computation is decreased by training a residual neural network to predict the forward mapping between the resistivity model and the apparent resistivity value. On the other hand, the curse of dimensionality issue and the computational effort related to the Hessian and gradient manipulation are decreased by compressing data and model spaces through a discrete cosine transform. A non‐parametric distribution is assumed as the prior probability density function. The method is first demonstrated on synthetic data and then applied to field measurements. The outcomes provided by the presented approach are also benchmarked against those obtained when a computationally expensive finite‐element code is employed for forward modelling , with the results of a gradient‐free Markov chain Monte Carlo inversion, and also compared with the predictions of a deterministic inversion. The implemented approach not only guarantees uncertainty assessments and model predictions comparable with those achieved by more standard inversion strategies, but also drastically decreases the computational cost of the probabilistic inversion, making it similar to that of a deterministic inversion.
Identifying and addressing fundraising's overarching ethical questions through ethical theory
Authors: Routley Claire , Koshy Cherian
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This paper seeks to build on MacQuilllin and Sargeant's (2019) framework for normative fundraising ethics by considering how fundraising professionals might use these theories to support their fundraising practice. In the paper we will seek to identify the higher‐level ethical questions that underpin the majority of ethical decisions fundraisers will need to make: decisions around the acceptance and solicitation of donations and we will then seek to address each of these questions through the lens of MacQuilllin and Sargeant's (2019) normative ethical theories.

Approach and methodology

We will abstract from common ethical dilemmas the higher‐level or overarching questions that can encompass them. We will then consider each question through the lens of the normative theories developed by MacQuillin and Sargeant (2019), drawing on available evidence to support our arguments.

Findings

Two core questions were identified:

1. Where are the lines in who we approach for/receive resources from for our organisation?

2. Where are the lines in how we approach people for resources for our organisation?

Originality

To our knowledge, this will be the first academic paper that a) identifies the overarching ethical questions that affect fundraising practice, and b) applies the various normative theories of fundraising ethics directly to them. In practical terms, it may also be particularly useful to fundraising practitioners who want to explore the theories of ethics in relation to the dilemmas they encounter in practice.
Indulgent citizens: Bribery in Mexico's bureaucratic procedures
Authors: Moreno‐Jaimes Carlos
Published: April 2022

This article offers evidence of the embedded nature of bribery in Mexico. Drawing on three theoretical frameworks that deviate from standard individualistic rational‐choice approaches, the paper examines a shared assertion: systemic corruption is a regime so deeply engrained in social relationships and norms that prevents people from attributing a moral connotation to their behavior. Based on individual‐level data from two waves of a national survey on government performance, I find that users of government procedures in Mexico are indifferent to bribery, as the occurrence of petty corruption acts does not influence their appraisal of various administrative transactions. By demonstrating that everyday acts of bribery are, in general, immune to social disapproval in a setting of high corruption like Mexico, this article contributes to understanding better the complexity of such phenomenon and why anti‐corruption policies are not likely to succeed if they do not design ways to cope with the social normalization of corruption.
Perianal/perineal rhabdomyosarcoma: Results of the SIOP MMT 95, Italian RMS 96, and EpSSG RMS 2005 studies
Authors: Rogers Timothy , Zanetti Ilaria , Coppadoro Beatrice , Martelli Hélène , Jenney Meriel , Minard‐Colin Veronique , Terwisscha van Scheltinga Sheila E. J. , Skerritt Clare , Fajardo Raquel Dávila , Guérin Florent , Kelsey Anna , Merks Johannes H. M. , Mandeville Henry , Guillén Gabriela , Glosli Heidi , De Corti Federica , Bisogno Gianni
Published: April 2022

Background/objectives

Rhabdomyosarcoma of the perianal/perineal region (PRMS) is rare, with poor survival and limited understanding of the functional consequences of treatment.

Design/methods

International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) malignant mesenchymal tumor (MMT) 95, Italian RMS 96, and European paediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG) RMS 2005 studies were interrogated to identify factors that impact survival; in RMS 2005, functional outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Fifty patients (nonmetastatic) were identified, median age 6.4 years (range: 0.1–19.6): 29 male, 21 female. Tumors were >5 cm in 33 patients. Histopathological subtype was alveolar in 35. Lymph nodes were involved in 23 patients. In RMS 2005, 16/21 (76%) tested alveolar tumors had positive FOXO1 fusion status. Diagnostic biopsy was performed in 37. Primary resection (13) was complete (R0) in one. Delayed primary excision (16) was complete in three. Radiotherapy (RT) in 34/50 patients included external beam (28), brachytherapy (3), and both (3). Nodal RT was given in 16/23 N1 patients (70%). Median follow‐up of alive patients (29) was 84.1 months (range: 3.6–221.1). Relapse or progression occurred in 24 patients (48%), 87% were fatal and most events (63%) were locoregional. Five‐year event‐free survival (EFS) was 47.8 (95% CI: 32.8–61.3), and 5‐year overall survival (OS) was 52.6 (95% CI: 36.7–66.2), with age ≥10 years and tumor size >5 cm impacting 5‐year EFS and OS (p < .05). Functional outcome data showed bowel, genito‐urinary, and psychological issues; fecal incontinence in four of 21 survivors, and urinary symptoms in two of 21.

Conclusions

About 60% of patients with nonmetastatic PRMS survive; older patients and those with large tumors have the worst outcomes. Biopsy should be the initial procedure, and definitive local therapy individualized. Quality‐of‐life and functional studies are needed to better understand the consequences of treatment.
Aging effects on free vibration and damping characteristics of polymer‐based biocomposites: A review
Authors: Ramalingam Ruban , Hemath Mohit , Rangappa Sanjay Mavinkere , Siengchin Suchart , Chellapandi Pandi Selva Durai
Published: April 2022

Biocomposites with inherent advantages such as biodegradable, recyclable, readily available, lower cost, and lower carbon footprint conveniently replace synthetic plastics. Despite being environmentally friendly, biocomposites should be functionally stable and structural in a rigorous environment. Thus, a study of biopolymer composites with exposure to various aging conditions, especially of humidity environment, which is of necessary concern, is considered here in this review. The aging experiments are often conducted at an accelerated rate at a specific time in respective environments to reduce the experimental time called accelerated aging. The vibration behavior of the biocomposites was conducted to determine the damping behavior of the composites is described in detail.
Physical, thermal, and mechanical properties of Al2O3/SiO2 infused jute/glass fiber resin composite materials in relation to viscosity
Authors: Shamim Hasan Abu Hena Md , Chowdhury Mohammad Asaduzzaman , Almahri Albandary , Kowser Md. Arefin , Alam Md. Shahinoor , Shuvho Md. Bengir Ahmed , Alruwais Raja Saad , Hossain Nayem , Rahman Md. Rezaur , Rahman Mohammed M.
Published: April 2022

Jute/glass fibers epoxy composites are significantly used in construction, automotive, aerospace, and wind turbine industries. In this work, jute/glass fibers epoxy composites reinforced with two different types of filler such as the Al2O3 and SiO2 particles at different weight rations (5, 10, and 15 gm) were investigated in relation to the viscosity. The composite samples required for various tests were fabricated in conventional hand lay‐up method. Physical, thermal stability, and mechanical properties such as tensile, bending and modulus of elasticity, and viscosity tests were conducted for the fabricated composites and the effect of reinforced materials and their dispersion competency was investigated through the assessment of their microstructure with SEM, XRD, FTIR, UV, and TGA/DSC. From the results, fabricated composites exhibit linear behavior and the maximum tensile strength were found 113.438 MPa for S2 without inclusion of particles and S4 with inclusion of Al2O3 and SiO2 exhibited higher elongation 12.06%. The viscosity of the epoxy matrix showed that viscosity is increased significantly as the inclusion of the Al2O3 and SiO2 particles volume are increased. The principal weight loss takes place at 336 to 338°C, which associated weight losses were 76% for S3, 68% for S4, and 67% for S6. Jute agglomerated orientation, some void, fracture behavior, and crack have been identified, caused by lack of fiber/matrix adhesion. FTIR results show that N‐H, asymmetric stretching Si‐O‐Si, Si‐O‐C and Si‐OH bonds, C‐C stretches, C‐O bond and Al‐O‐H symmetric bonding were identified. UV analysis identified different peaks which are 254.42, 329.06, 413.5, and 473.73 nm.
Quantitative detection of polymer content in styrene‐butadiene‐styrene modified asphalt after aging
Authors: Que Yun , Wang Yefei , Xu Song , Fan Yong
Published: April 2022

The identification of styrene‐butadiene‐styrene (SBS) content is crucial in engineering applications since the key to assessing the performance of aged‐modified asphalt is the SBS content. Six types of modified asphalts with various SBS contents were prepared, and physical, rheological, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) tests were conducted. The fitting relationship between aged‐modified asphalt indexes and SBS content was established, and the three methods' accuracy, simplicity, and efficiency were compared and analyzed. The results showed that the fitting relationship between SBS content and viscosity could exceed 0.83 after aging. However, the linear and quadratic fittings deviated from the measured values, and the softening point had no apparent law with the SBS content. The rheological index method significantly correlated with SBS content and is highly automated. However, FTIR was established based on the direct detection of SBS characteristic peaks compared with the physical and rheological indexes methods. It could directly reflect the SBS content and was not easily disturbed by SBS substitutes. In addition, after long‐term aging, the linear relationship between SBS characteristic peak index, A966/A811, and SBS content could exceed 0.97. The FTIR test exhibited high accuracy and fast detection speed and is the best detection method for SBS content.
Feasibility and preliminary effects of acceptance and commitment therapy on reducing psychological distress and improving the quality of life of the parents of children with cancer: A pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Jin Xiaohuan , Li Huiyuan , Chong Yuen Yu , Mann Ka Fai , Yao Wenying , Wong Cho Lee
Published: April 2022

Key points

Few experimental studies have tested Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in parents of children with cancer

ACT is feasible considering the high rates of recruitment, adherence and retention

ACT is well accepted with high levels of satisfaction

ACT is effective in improving psychological flexibility and reducing guilt and worry

Future full‐scale RCTs are warranted to confirm the results of this work
Family caregivers support their patient's decision to participate in a phase 1 clinical trial: Weighing the pros and cons, bearing the costs
Authors: Kogan Naomi , Tolley Michelle , Cohen Robin
Published: April 2022

Objectives

When patients with advanced cancer pursue phase 1 clinical trials, family caregivers are impacted as they adopt new roles and responsibilities in time‐pressured, uncertain circumstances. This study explored the nature of the caregivers' participation in patients' decision to pursue phase 1 clinical trials and the early impact of the decision on the caregiver.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 19 family caregivers of advanced cancer patients who had agreed to participate in phase 1 clinical trials. They were coded for information about the caregiver's relationship with the patient, typical style of decision‐making together, understanding of the patient's prognosis and trial, contributions to decision‐making and the initial impacts of the trial on the caregiver. Codes illuminating the research questions were grouped into categories and themes, compared across transcripts and examined against the literature.

Results

Caregivers unequivocally supported the patients' decision to pursue the phase 1 trial as they hoped that the patient would derive medical benefit from the trial. They withheld their opinions and fears about the trial from the patients to support patient autonomy during the decision‐making process. The patient's decision to participate increased the caregivers' burdens and deprived them of time spent on pleasurable activities at end of life.

Conclusions

Respecting the patients' personal autonomy, caregivers supported the trial, despite the complex caregiving required. As the success of phase 1 trials relies on caregiver involvement, it is imperative that healthcare professionals be sensitized to the support needs of these caregivers.
Comparison of clinical features of COVID‐19 infection in children with asthma and their healthy peers
Authors: Nursoy Mustafa A. , Bülbül Lida , Yazıcı Mebrure , Altınel Nazan , Ustabaş Kahraman Feyza , Özkul Sağlam Neslihan , Bursal Duramaz Burcu , Türel Özden , Çakır Erkan
Published: April 2022

Aim

We aimed to assess the impact of COVID‐19 on asthma exacerbations and to compare the severity of symptoms of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection of asthmatic children with those of healthy children.

Methods

The clinical course of COVID‐19 was compared among 89 children with asthma and 84 healthy children with age‐ and gender‐matched. Demographic factors, severity of asthma, duration of asthma, presence of atopy, type of treatment, and compliance to treatment in asthmatic children on clinical course of infection and to determine the risk factors for severe course for asthma exacerbation during COVID‐19 were evaluated retrospectively. Demographic characteristics, clinical symptoms, duration of complaints, and hospitalization rates were statistically compared between the two groups.

Results

Both groups had similar rates of symptomatic disease, hospitalization, and duration of fever. Among children with asthma mean age was 10.3 years, 59.6% were male, and 84.3% had mild asthma. Dyspnea was more prevalent in asthmatic children (p:0.012), but other clinical findings were not different from those of healthy controls. 12.4% (n:11) of asthmatic children had asthma exacerbation, 2.2% (n:2) of them were hospitalized; one (1.1%) of which was due to asthma exacerbation.

Conclusion

The course of COVID‐19 in patients with mild to moderate asthma, who were followed up regularly and who were compliant with their treatment, was similar to their healthy peers. Since there was no severe asthma case in our study, the results could not have been generalized to all asthmatic patients. Further comprehensive and multicenter studies are required in pediatric population.
The added influence of genomics and post‐MRI confirmatory biopsy results to MRI results alone on medical decision making for men with favorable risk prostate cancer being considered for active surveillance
Authors: Wang Michael , Qi Ji , George Arvin K. , Semerjian Alice , Linsell Susan M. , Montie James E. , Cher Michael L. , Ginsburg Kevin B. ,   for the Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative
Published: April 2022

Background

We examined how the results of genomic classifier (GC) or post‐magnetic resonance imaging confirmatory biopsy (pMRI‐CBx) influenced management strategy for men with an MRI considering active surveillance (AS).

Methods

We reviewed the Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative registry for men with favorable‐risk prostate cancer. Among men with an MRI after the diagnostic biopsy (n = 1162) a subset also had GC (n = 126) or pMRI‐CBx (n = 309). Results of MRI, GC, and pMRI‐CBx were deemed reassuring (RA) or non‐reassuring (Non‐RA). We assess the association of the combination of test results obtained with the selection of AS. Proportions were compared with the Fisher's exact test. Multivariable logistic regression models were fit for an association of test results with the selection of AS.

Results

The results of pMRI‐CBx tended to influence management decisions greater than that of GC, especially in situation where testing results were discordant with the MRI result. Fewer men with a RA MRI and non‐RA pMRI‐CBx where managed with AS compared with RA MRI alone (31% vs. 86%, p < 0.001). non‐RA genomics did not seem to have the same influence on management as non‐RA pMRI‐CBx as a similar proportion of men with RA MRI and non‐RA genomics were managed with AS compared with RA MRI alone (85% vs. 86%, p = 0.753). More men with non‐RA MRI and RA pMRI‐CBx were managed with AS compared with non‐RA MRI alone (89% vs. 40%, p < 0.001). Alternatively, a similar proportion of men with non‐RA MRI and RA genomics were managed with AS compared with non‐RA MRI alone (42% vs. 40%, p > 0.999). In the multivariable models, pMRI‐CBx results influenced the decision for AS versus treatment.

Conclusions

In men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer and an MRI, the additional information provided by pMRI‐CBx influenced the decision of AS versus treatment, while the addition of GC results were less influential.
Impact of the mouse estrus cycle on cannabinoid receptor agonist‐induced molecular and behavioral outcomes
Authors: Kim Hye Ji J. , Zagzoog Ayat , Black Tallan , Baccetto Sarah L. , Ezeaka Udoka C. , Laprairie Robert B.
Published: April 2022

Sexual dimorphisms are observed in cannabinoid pharmacology. It is widely reported that female animals are more sensitive to the cataleptic, hypothermic, antinociceptive, and anti‐locomotive effects of cannabinoid receptor agonists such as CP55,940. Despite awareness of these sex differences, there is little consideration for the pharmacodynamic differences within females. The mouse estrus cycle spans 4–5 days and consists of four sex hormone‐mediated phases: proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and diestrus. The endocannabinoid system interacts with female sex hormones including β‐estradiol, which may influence receptor expression throughout the estrus cycle. In the current study, sexually mature female C57BL/6 mice in either proestrus or metestrus were administered either 1 mg/kg i.p. of the cannabinoid receptor agonist CP55,940 or vehicle. Mice then underwent the tetrad battery of behavioral assays measuring catalepsy, internal body temperature, thermal nociception, and locomotion. Compared with female mice in metestrus, those in proestrus were more sensitive to the anti‐nociceptive effects of CP55,940. A similar trend was observed in CP55,940‐induced catalepsy; however, this difference was not significant. As for cannabinoid receptor expression in brain regions underlying antinociception, the spine tissue of proestrus mice that received CP55,940 exhibited increased expression of cannabinoid receptor type 1 relative to treatment‐matched mice in metestrus. These results affirm the importance of testing cannabinoid effects in the context of the female estrus cycle.
Experimental and numerical research on the characteristics of heavy gas leakage and diffusion
Authors: Shi Bao‐Jun , Wang Hui , Nie Shi‐Ming , Cheng Cheng , Li Tie‐Jun
Published: April 2022

Once a hazardous gas leaks, it will pose a serious threat to the safety of people's lives and property. This paper aims to investigate the flow characteristics of heavy gas leakage and diffusion to deal with sudden accidents caused by hazardous gas leakage. First, an experimental platform for the leakage and diffusion of heavy gas is built, and the tracer technique is adopted to visualize the experimental phenomena during the process of gas leakage and diffusion. Second, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is built based on the experimental platform to simulate and analyze the gas leakage and diffusion process. The CFD model is verified by comparing the numerical results with those of experiments using an authoritative evaluation standard procedure. The comparison shows that the related statistical performance measures are all reasonable. Third, a three‐dimensional numerical model of a real tank farm is created in full scale and the heavy gas (liquefied petroleum gas) leakage process is simulated and analyzed considering also the effect of wind. Experimental and numerical results show that the heavy gas leakage and diffusion process can be divided into three stages: gas concentration rising stage, gravity sedimentation stage, and gas passive diffusion stage, in which different flow phenomena are observed with different flow characteristics for each of the stages. The phenomena observed in experiment are further analyzed and clarified using fluid dynamics by numerical simulation. The full‐scale modeling and simulation of the real tank farm is helpful for taking possible measures once a gas leakage occurs.
β‐(Al0.17Ga0.83)2O3/Ga2O3 Delta‐Doped Heterostructure MODFETs with an Ultrathin Spacer Layer and a Back‐Barrier Layer: A Comprehensive Technology Computer‐Aided Design Analysis
Authors: Atmaca Gökhan , Cha Ho-Young
Published: April 2022

The output characteristics of β‐(Al0.17Ga0.83)2O3/β‐Ga2O3‐based heterostructure modulation‐doped field‐effect transistors (MODFETs) with an ultrathin spacer layer and a back‐barrier layer are fitted with experimental measurements using a Silvaco ATLAS technology computer‐aided design (TCAD) simulation environment, and the calibration of the physical model and material parameters is realized. The effects of spacer layer thickness, barrier layer thickness, Si‐δ doping density, and insertion of a β‐Ga2O3 cap layer on the transfer and transconductance characteristics are examined. It is found that a β‐Ga2O3 cap layer on the top of the heterostructure can increase the sheet carrier density in the heterostructure. A breakdown analysis is also carried out to reveal the effects of several layers on the off‐state characteristics. A range of channel layer thicknesses from 15 to 25 nm is found to be the optimum range to avoid a high off‐state leakage current and earlier breakdown voltage.
High‐Performance GaN HEMTs with ION/IOFF ≈1010 and Gate Leakage Current <10−11 A mm−1 Using Ta2O5 Dielectric
Authors: Upadhyay Bhanu B. , Surapaneni Sreenadh , Yadav Yogendra K. , Bhardwaj Navneet , Suvachintak Netaji , Ganguly Swaroop , Saha Dipankar
Published: April 2022

Herein, Ta2O5 high‐k gate dielectric‐based GaN high electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) with a high I
ON/I
OFF ratio and low gate leakage current are demonstrated without any significant deterioration of the other performance parameters. Ta2O5 with an average surface roughness of 1.8 nm and a dielectric constant of ≈26 are grown by sputtering and annealing in O2. The bandgap, valence, and conduction band offsets with Al0.3Ga0.7 N are 4.85, 0.24, and 0.61 eV, respectively. The reverse gate leakage current at −7 V is observed to be 1.2 ×10−10 A mm−1 for 5 nm and <1.0×10−11 A mm−1 for 20 and 30 nm oxide thickness compared to 5.0 × 10−6 A mm−1 for the control sample. This current is among the lowest ever reported for GaN‐based oxide‐HEMTs without significantly sacrificing other performances. The I
ON/I
OFF ratio is 2 × 109, 7 × 109, and 1 
10 for 5, 20, and 30 nm oxide thickness, respectively, as compared to 2 × 108 for the control sample. The interface–state–density is estimated to be 1.5 × 1013 cm−2 eV−1. I
DS,sat is measured to be 710, 700, and 690 mA mm−1 for 5, 20, and 30 nm Ta2O5 thickness, respectively, compared to 725 mA mm−1 for the control sample. The presence of oxide does not change the other characteristics much.