bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of urinary incontinence prevalence and population estimates
Authors: Sadri Hamid , Oliaei Ava , Sadri Salar , Pezeshki Padina , Chughtai Bilal , Elterman Dean
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Incontinence impacts the quality‐of‐life of people suffering from the disease. However, there is limited information on the prevalence of incontinence due to the stigma, lack of awareness, and underdiagnosis.

Objective

This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of overactive bladder (OAB) and nonobstructive urinary retention (NOUR).

Methods

The authors conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines using Embase, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases to identify the relevant publications in the English language. Two reviewers independently assessed the articles and extracted the data. Review papers were assessed for content and references. A meta‐analysis of proportions was conducted using the RStudio software. To address the age heterogeneity, a subanalysis was conducted. Pooled data were overlayed on the Canadian population and a sample of 10 populous countries to estimate the number of people suffering from incontinence.

Results

Twenty‐eight and eight articles were selected for OAB and NOUR, respectively. The pooled prevalence of OAB in men and women was 12% (95% CI: 9%–16%) and 15% (95% CI: 12%–18%), respectively. The estimated prevalence of NOUR was 15.6%–26.1% of men over 60 and 9.3%–20% of women over 60. The subanalysis pooled prevalence of OAB in men and women was 11% (95% CI: 8%–15%) and 12% (95% CI: 9%–16%), respectively. We estimated that 1.4–2.5 million women and 1.3–2.2 million men suffer from OAB in Canada.

Conclusion

Urinary incontinence is an under‐reported and underdiagnosed prevalent condition that requires appropriate treatment to improve a patient's quality‐of‐life.
The nature, detection, and avoidance of harmful discrimination in criminal justice
Authors: O'Flaherty Brendan , Sethi Rajiv , Williams Morgan
Published: September 2023

We provide a selective survey of the literature on discrimination by criminal justice agents, and argue for a taxonomy of harms that differs from conventional approaches. Discrimination can be self‐defeating if it reduces welfare among targets of discrimination while serving no legitimate purpose for the discriminating party. Even if a legitimate purpose is served, discrimination can be deliberative or demeaning, resulting in welfare losses that need to be accounted for. Deliberative and demeaning discrimination can also be self‐defeating through general equilibrium effects on witness cooperation, clearance rates, and preemptive and retaliatory violence. We consider how harmful discrimination can be detected and avoided, as well as changes in our understanding of discrimination resulting from the proliferation of predictive algorithms.
Topotecan clearance based on a single sample and a population pharmacokinetic model: Application to a pediatric high‐risk neuroblastoma clinical trial
Authors: Campagne Olivia , Wu Huiyun , Wu Jianrong , Naranjo Arlene , Daryani Vinay M. , Gajjar Amar J. , Park Julie R. , Stewart Clinton F.
Published: September 2023

Background

Topotecan, an antitumor drug with systemic exposure (SE)‐dependent activity against many pediatric tumors has wide interpatient pharmacokinetic variability, making it challenging to attain the desired topotecan SE. The study objectives were to update our topotecan population pharmacokinetic model, to evaluate the feasibility of determining individual topotecan clearance using a single blood sample, and to apply this approach to topotecan data from a neuroblastoma trial to explore exposure–response relationships.

Procedure

Our previous population pharmacokinetic and covariate model was updated using data from 13 clinical pediatric studies. A simulation‐based Bayesian analysis was performed to determine if a single blood sample could be sufficient to estimate individual topotecan clearance. Following the Bayesian approach, single pharmacokinetic samples collected from a Children's Oncology Group Phase III clinical trial (ANBL0532; NCT0056767) were analyzed to estimate individual topotecan SE. Associations between topotecan SE and toxicity or early response were then evaluated.

Results

The updated population model included the impact of patient body surface area (BSA), age, and renal function on topotecan clearance. The Bayesian analysis with the updated model and single plasma samples showed that individual topotecan clearance values were estimated with good precision (mean absolute prediction error ≤16.2%) and low bias (mean prediction error ≤7.2%). Using the same approach, topotecan SE was derived in patients from ANBL0532. The exposure–response analysis showed an increased early response after concomitant cyclophosphamide and topotecan up to a topotecan SE of 45 h ng/mL.

Conclusions

A simple single‐sample approach during topotecan therapy could guide dosing for patients, resulting in more patients reaching target attainment.
Facile fabrication and characterization of novel polyvinyl alcohol/polyethylene glycol/aluminum nitride nanocomposites
Authors: Venu Gopala Kumari Satti , Gupta Shiv Prakash Anil , Pakshirajan Kannan , Pugazhenthi G.
Published: September 2023

In the current study, novel polyvinyl alcohol‐based films with polyethylene glycol as a plasticizer and aluminum nitride (AlN) nanoparticles (0.1–0.5 wt%) as a reinforcing agent were fabricated by facile solution casting route. The prepared composite films were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Additionally, morphology, water contact angle, and optical and mechanical properties were evaluated. FTIR analysis disclosed that the backbone structure of PVA/PEG was not affected by nanofiller loading, and the type of interaction between the PVA/PEG matrix and AlN nanoparticles was physical; furthermore, it was observed that as AlN nanoparticle loading increased in the composite films, water contact angles also increased. Interestingly, the nanocomposite films showed >90% blocking of UV light (200–400 nm) and very high flexibility with an elongation at break of approximately 190%. In comparison with PVA/PEG, the composite films developed by reinforcing 0.3 wt% of AlN (PVA/PEG/0.3AlN) exhibited a 17.94°C increment in thermal degradation temperature and a 7.36°C increment in glass transition temperature, along with a 1.2‐fold increment in tensile strength.

Highlights

Fabrication of polyvinyl alcohol/polyethylene glycol/aluminum nitride films.

The composite films showed >90% blocking of UV light.

Thermal stability maximally enhanced at 0.3 wt% loading of aluminum nitride.

The composite films demonstrated very high flexibility.
Towards conservation and sustainable use of an indigenous crop: A large partnership network enabled the genetic diversity assessment of 1539 fonio (Digitaria exilis) accessions
Authors: Kaczmarek Thomas , Causse Sandrine , Abdul Suleiman D. , Abraham Solomon , Achigan‐Dako Enoch G. , Adje Charlotte , Adjebeng‐Danquah Joseph , Agyare Richard Y. , Akanvou Louise , Bakasso Yacoubou , Barry Mamadou B. , Bonsu Samuel K. , Calatayud Caroline , Conde Soukeye , Couderc Marie , Dachi Stephen N. , Diallo Tely , Diop Baye M. , Deu Monique , Gueye Mame C. , Ibrahim Bio Yerima Abdou R. , Issah Abdul R. , Kane Ndjido A. , Keita Yeremakhan , Kombiok James , Ngom Ablaye , Noyer Jean‐Louis , Olodo Katina , Oselebe Happiness O. , Pham Jean‐Louis , Piquet Marie , Puozaa Doris K. , Rivallan Ronan , Saidou Sani , Sekloka Emmanuel , Tengey Theophilus K. , Uyoh Edak A. , Vancoppenolle Sylvie , Vigouroux Yves , Zekraoui Leila , Leclerc Christian , Barnaud Adeline , Billot Claire
Published: September 2023

Social Impact Statement

The use of neglected and underutilized species (NUS) in agrosystems is a potential solution to the challenges arising from global change. These species could contribute to the equitable diversification of agricultural systems. Providing knowledge on their genetic diversity and fostering access to data and results is essential for the development of strong collaborative future research. The study addressed these issues by assessing the diversity of the largest fonio (Digitaria exilis) collection existing to date. Associated with a user‐friendly Shiny application (https://shinyapps.southgreen.fr/app/foniodiv), our results reinforce research efficiency and broaden the prospects for all actors involved in enhancing fonio and indigenous crops as valuable resources for the future.
Prognostic significance of serum testosterone level in patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer treated with cabazitaxel
Authors: Fujiwara Shinnosuke , Kosaka Takeo , Nishimoto Yoshinori , Kamisawa Ken , Watanabe Keitaro , Baba Yuto , Takeda Toshikazu , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Oya Mototsugu
Published: September 2023

Background

Serum testosterone level is a potential prognostic marker for castration‐resistant prostate cancer. However, its role as a prognostic marker in cabazitaxel chemotherapy remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the clinical significance of serum testosterone levels before cabazitaxel chemotherapy.

Methods

This single‐institution, retrospective study included 47 patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) who received cabazitaxel therapy. Serum testosterone levels were measured before the initiation of cabazitaxel therapy.

Results

Progression‐free survival and overall survival (OS) were not significantly different between patients with high and low serum testosterone levels. Analysis of patients aged <70 years revealed that those with high serum testosterone levels (total testosterone level > 0.055 ng/mL) had significantly longer OS than those with low serum testosterone levels (total testosterone level < 0.055 ng/mL, p = 0.012). Multivariate analysis revealed that low serum testosterone levels (hazard ratio [HR] = 11.874, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.076–67.953, p = 0.005) and high prostate‐specific antigen levels (HR = 18.051, 95% CI 2.462–132.347, p = 0.004) in the pretreatment phase were independent prognostic factors for OS in patients receiving cabazitaxel therapy.

Conclusions

Serum testosterone level may be a prognostic marker for cabazitaxel therapy in patients with mCRPC who are younger than 70 years, and high serum testosterone levels may lead to longer survival.
The role of PSMA PET/CT to predict upgrading in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy for ISUP grade group 1 prostate cancer
Authors: Esen Baris , Seymen Hulya , Gurses Bengi , Armutlu Ayse , Koseoglu Ersin , Tarim Kayhan , Ertoy Baydar Dilek , Sarikaya Ahmet Furkan , Canda Abdullah Erdem , Balbay Derya , Kordan Yakup , Tilki Derya , Esen Tarik , Demirkol Mehmet Onur
Published: September 2023

Introduction and Objectives

To investigate the additive role of prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) independent from multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and clinical‐pathological parameters to predict pathological upgrading in patients with ISUP grade group (GG) 1 prostate cancer (PCa) at prostate biopsy.

Materials and Methods

A total of 41 patients who underwent robotic radical prostatectomy (RP) for GG1 disease at prostate biopsy with preoperative PSMA PET/CT and mpMRI images available for central review were included in the study. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the independent predictors of pathological upgrading (GG ≥ 2).

Results

Final RP pathology revealed upgrading in 26 patients (65.9%); to GG 2 disease in 25 cases and GG 4 disease in one case. International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) upgrading rates for prostate imaging‐reporting and data system (PIRADS)‐5, PIRADS‐4, and PIRADS ≤ 3 lesions were 78%, 74%, and 38%, respectively. Fourteen out of 15 (93.3%) patients with an SUVmax ≥ 5.6 and all patients with an SUVmax ≥ 6.5 (n = 10) had pathological upgrading. The upgrading rate in patients with SUV < 5.6 was 46.2% (12/26). Intraprostatic SUVmax ≥ 5.6 was found as the only independent predictor of pathological upgrading in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

High prostatic PSMA uptake was found to be a very reliable predictor of pathological upgrading, but low PSMA uptake cannot exclude pathological upgrading. Intraprostatic PSMA uptake along with previously known mpMRI and biopsy‐related parameters should be considered when making a treatment decision in patients with GG1 PCa at prostate biopsy.
Quotient of quotient graph a novel approach to compute π‐conjugated dendrimer and predict its properties
Authors: Xavier D. Antony , Akhila S , Varghese Eddith Sarah , Nair Theertha , Baby Annmaria
Published: September 2023

The role of dendrimers is getting updated and grabbing immense attention in many fields. Dendrimers are used in a broad spectrum, in specific, it is widely utilized in drug delivery, for targeted carrier and specific action. Also, in drug catalysis, it improves the solubility of poorly soluble drugs and increases the stability of active ingredients within the cores. Many researchers are interested in developing new dendrimers by using various compounds. ‐conjugated dendrimers via truxenes and thienylethynylene units, are considered a promising material in the field of medicinal chemistry, bio‐organic, and environmental sciences. In QSAR/QSPR, the structural analysis of chemical compounds is examined by topological descriptors. In this article, the various distance‐based topological indices such as Wiener, Szeged, and Mostar of gradient star‐persistent ‐conjugated dendrimers are determined. Since gradient star‐persistent ‐conjugated dendrimers have odd cycles, the usual cut method is not applicable, therefore we use a new concept, the quotient of quotient graph to determine the numerical expression of various indices. An analysis of linear regression reveals that degree‐based topological descriptors predict better physicochemical properties.
Business modeling under adversity: Resilience in international firms
Authors: Galkina Tamara , Atkova Irina , Gabrielsson Peter
Published: September 2023

Research Summary

This study employs resilience theory and examines the dynamics of business modeling in international firms that enable them to resist environmental shocks under the adverse conditions of a global pandemic. Our multiple‐case study shows that firms develop various dynamic states of their business models (BMs) during the resilience process; each state differs in terms of the scope of BM change and the concurrent degree of BM innovativeness. Shifts in dynamic states result from attaining certain resilience capabilities. We contribute to the dynamic view on BMs, and the process perspective on organizational resilience; we also advance BM research in the context of internationalization.

Managerial Summary

Under conditions of extreme disruptions that take the form of long‐lasting adversity, international firms need to continuously adjust their BMs to brave force majeure and remain resilient. This study takes a dynamic perspective on business modeling and examines how international firms develop different dynamic states of their BMs to stay resilient under extreme uncertainty; each state differs in terms of the scope of BM change, concurrent degree of BM innovativeness and the attained resilience capabilities. We show that business modeling is a continuous task of international firms that allows them not only to resist adversity but also to open new markets.
Influence of Lithium Diffusion into Copper Current Collectors on Lithium Electrodeposition in Anode‐Free Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Huang Yu‐Kai , Chen Heyin , Nyholm Leif
Published: September 2023

The development of “anode‐free” lithium‐metal batteries with high energy densities is, at present, mainly limited by the poor control of the nucleation of lithium directly on the copper current collector, especially in conventional carbonate electrolytes. It is therefore essential to improve the understanding of the lithium nucleation process and its interactions with the copper substrate. In this study, it is shown that diffusion of lithium into the copper substrate, most likely via the grain boundaries, can significantly influence the nucleation process. Such diffusion makes it more difficult to obtain a great number of homogeneously distributed lithium nuclei on the copper surface and thus leads to inhomogeneous electrodeposition. It is, however, demonstrated that the nucleation of lithium on copper is significantly improved if an initial chemical prelithiation of the copper surface is performed. This prelithiation saturates the copper surface with lithium and hence decreases the influence of lithium diffusion via the grain boundaries. In this way, the lithium nucleation can be made to take place more homogenously, especially when a short potentiostatic nucleation pulse that can generate a large number of nuclei on the surface of the copper substrate is applied.
High‐Efficiency Layer‐by‐Layer All‐Polymer Solar Cell Enabled by Bottom‐Layer Optimization
Authors: Dou Yuejia , Hong Ling , Jing Jianhua , Jia Tao , Zhang Jiabin , Zhang Kai , Huang Fei
Published: September 2023

All‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs) have attracted extensive attention for their advantages in long‐term thermal‐ and photostability. However, the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of all‐PSCs still lag behind organic solar cells based on small‐molecular acceptors. The long‐chain entanglement between polymers brings complex morphological problems, which contribute to lower fill factor (FF). Herein, an effective approach is proposed to build the ideal morphology and pseudo‐p–i–n vertical component distribution in all‐polymer active layer by independently casting donor and acceptor films with different solvents. Through the solvent engineering, the layer‐by‐layer device with o‐xylene and carbon disulfide (O‐XY:CS2)‐processed D18 donor layer achieves a PCE of 17.53%, much higher than commonly used solvents (chloroform and chlorobenzene) processed donor layers with PCEs of 16.49 and 16.04%, respectively. In‐depth investigation reveals that outstanding performance of O‐XY:CS2‐processed donor layer device is attributed to mitigated bimolecular recombination, more balanced mobility, and reduced trap density of states, which contribute to the enhancement of short‐current density and FF. Moreover, favorable morphology network also brings prolonged lifetime under continuous light soaking. This work presents a simple and effective way to obtain ideal active layer morphology and construct favorable vertical component distribution through optimizing donor morphology in all‐PSCs.
Migrating monolithic applications to function as a service
Authors: Würz Hendrik M. , Krämer Michel , Kaster Marvin , Kuijper Arjan
Published: September 2023

Function as a service (FaaS) promises low operating costs, reduced complexity, and good application performance. However, it is still an open question how to migrate monolithic applications to FaaS. In this paper, we present a guideline for software designers to split monolithic applications into smaller functions that can be executed in a FaaS environment. This enables independent scaling of individual parts of the application. Our approach consists of three steps: We first identify the main tasks (and their subtasks) of the application to split. Then, we define the program flow to be able to tell which application tasks can be converted to functions and how they interact with each other. In the final step, we specify actual functions and possibly merge those that are too small and which would produce too much communication overhead or maintenance effort. Compared to existing work, our approach applies to applications of any size and results in functions that are small enough—but not too small—for efficient execution in a FaaS environment. We evaluate the usefulness of our approach by applying it to a real‐world application for the storage of geospatial data. We describe the experiences made and finish the paper with a discussion, conclusions, and ideas for future work.
Rebuttal to Greuter & Rankin‐Rodríguez's (2831) proposal to conserve Exostema against Coutarea (Rubiaceae) and to their expanded circumscription of Exostema
Authors: Delprete Piero G. , Paudyal Sushil K.
Published: September 2023

Paudyal & al. performed the most comprehensive phylogenetic study of the tribe Chiococceae (Rubiaceae) using two nuclear and two plastid datasets, and resolved four well‐supported main clades. Within Clade B, Paudyal & al. recognized the genera Exostema, Hintonia, Coutareopsis, Motleyothamnus, Coutarea, Adolphoduckea, and Solenandra. Greuter & Rankin‐Rodríguez interpreted the internal clades of Clade B differently, and instead treated the entire Clade B as the broadly expanded, morphologically diverse genus Exostema. In addition, because the genus Coutarea is positioned within Clade B and its name has nomenclatural priority over Exostema, Greuter & Rankin‐Rodríguez presented a formal proposal (proposal 2831) to conserve the name Exostema against Coutarea. We strongly disagree with Greuter & Rankin‐Rodríguez naming the entire Clade B of Paudyal & al. as a widely circumscribed Exostema, and with their proposal to conserve the name Exostema against Coutarea for the following reasons: (1) their wide delimitation of Exostema and their proposal to reject Coutarea vs. Exostema are and will cause wide disruption in nomenclatural stability of traditional and current usage of generic and specific names within the Chiococceae; (2) their broad synonymisation under Exostema s.l. entails the lumping of six genera (Coutarea, Adolphoduckea, Coutareopsis, Motleyothamnus, Hintonia, Solenandra) into a broadly distributed, highly polymorphic genus, decreasing the value of diagnostic information for each distinct monophyletic taxon and reducing the systematic and morphological information of the species; (3) each of the seven “Clade B” genera of Paudyal & al. corresponds to a well‐resolved clade with a unique set of morphological characters; (4) Paudyal & al.'s genera of Clade B have been accepted by numerous Rubiaceae specialists and managers of specialized websites; (5) the broad expansion of Exostema proposed by Greuter & Rankin‐Rodríguez does not fulfill the principle of maximizing the ease of identification of the c. 40 species included in such a highly polymorphic genus, increasing the difficulty of species identification by the botanical community. In conclusion, we advise the Nomenclature Committee to reject Greuter & Rankin‐Rodríguez's proposal to conserve the generic name Exostema against Coutarea.
Studies on immunotoxicity induced by emamectin benzoate in zebrafish embryos based on metabolomics
Authors: Wei Ziyi , Wang Weiguo , Xu Wenping , Tao Liming , Li Zhong , Zhang Yang , Shao Xusheng
Published: September 2023

Emamectin benzoate (EMB) is an insecticide for the control of agricultural lepidoptera pests, and also an anti‐parasiticide for the control of exoparasites in aquaculture industry. Increased studies suggest that EMB could cause toxicity to non‐targeted organisms, but its immunotoxicity to human remains unclear. In this study, zebrafish were used to investigate the immunotoxic effects induced by environmentally relevant doses of EMB. We observed that EMB exposure led to embryo mortality and delayed hatching, as well as increased malformations. Meanwhile, zebrafish exposed to EMB exhibited a significant decrease in the number of neutrophils and macrophages. In addition, untargeted metabolomics approach was developed to elucidate the mechanism of EMB‐induced immunotoxicity. We found that a total of 10 shared biomarkers were identified in response to EMB exposure. Furthermore, pathway analysis identified glycerophospholipid metabolism was the most relevant pathway. Within this pathway, it was observed abnormal increases in glycerol 3‐phosphate content, which could be attributed to the increased expression of GK5 and decreased expression of GPAT3. Our study provided novel and robust perspectives, which showed that EMB exposure to zebrafish embryos could cause metabolic disturbances that adversely affected development and immune system.
Total flavonoids of Rhizoma drynariae improves tendon‐bone healing for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in mice and promotes the osteogenic differentiation of bone mesenchymal stem cells by the ERR1/2‐Gga1‐TGF‐β/MAPK pathway
Authors: Han Lei , Wang Canfeng , Wang Tuo , Hu Yungeng , Wang Hongshun
Published: September 2023

Background

Total flavonoids of Rhizoma drynariae (TFRD) is broadly used in the treatment of orthopedic diseases. Nevertheless, the effects and underlying mechanism of TFRD on tendon‐bone healing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) remain unclear.

Methods

The ACLR mouse model was established. Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining was used for histological analysis of tendon‐bone healing. Western blot was utilized to detect the levels of osteogenic related factors (ALP, OCN, RUNX2). The viability and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were determined by Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) and ALP assays. The interaction of estrogen related receptor alpha (ESRRA), estrogen related receptor beta (ESRRB), and golgi‐localized γ‐ear containing ADP ribosylation factor‐binding protein 1 (Gga1) was detected by luciferase reporter assays. The levels of important proteins on the TGF‐β/MAPK pathway were measured by western blot.

Results

TFRD improved tendon‐bone healing, restored biomechanics of ACLR mice and activated the TGF‐β/MAPK pathway. TFRD treatment also enhanced the viability and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in vitro. Then, we demonstrated that TFRD targeted ESRRA and ESRRB to transcriptionally activate Gga1 expression. Knockdown of ESRRA, ESRRB, or Gga1 suppressed the viability and osteogenic differentiation of TFRD‐induced BMSCs, which was revealed to be restored by Gga1 overexpression. The overexpression of ESRRA, ESRRB, or Gga1 was demonstrated to promote the BMSC viability and osteogenic differentiation. TGF‐β1 treatment can reverse the impact of Gga1 inhibition on osteogenic differentiation in TFRD‐induced BMSCs.

Conclusion

TFRD improves tendon‐bone healing in ACLR mouse models and facilitates the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs through the ERR1/2‐Gga1‐TGF‐β/MAPK pathway, which might deepen our understanding of the underlying mechanism of TFRD in tendon‐bone healing.
Surgical intervention and outcome in a domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus) with dystocia and uterine torsion
Authors: Revay Rebecca , Needleman Abigail
Published: September 2023

An adult female intact rabbit presented through a 24‐h emergency service for exhibiting signs of stage 1 labour for over 5 h. Physical examination findings, delayed progression to stage 2 labour and diagnostic imaging were consistent with dystocia with multiple fetuses present. A laparotomy was performed, during which an en bloc ovariohysterectomy was performed after discovery of an ∼180° counterclockwise uterine torsion. Of the eight kits present in the uterus, five survived to discharge from the hospital. Uterine torsion should be considered a differential diagnosis for any rabbit presenting with dystocia and can carry a good prognosis for the doe and kits with prompt surgical intervention.
Radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis: Mechanism research and clinical progress review
Authors: Zheng Chunge , Yu Longgang , Jiang Yan
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis is a vital dose‐limiting reaction in patients with head and neck malignancy. Unlike oral mucositis during or after radiotherapy, radiation‐induced sinusitis is easily overlooked in clinical practice and rarely included in experimental studies. Herein, we review the literature to date on radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis.

Methods

Relevant studies published between 1995 and 2022 were determined through a detailed search using open keywords from PubMed, with manual search of the reference list of the identified articles. Keywords searched were “ionizing radiation,” “radiotherapy,” “intensity‐modulated radiotherapy,” “head and neck tumor,” “nasopharyngeal carcinoma,” “nasal epithelium,” “radiation damage,” and “radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis.” Full‐text articles that clearly stated the pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, predictors, treatment, and prognosis of radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis were included.

Results

Radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis occurs during radiotherapy and can last for months or even years after radiotherapy. A mixture of cellular outcomes caused by ionizing radiation and persistent damage of the epithelial and submucosal tissues after the treatment result from the radiotherapy itself. Endoscopic sinus surgery improves symptoms but can be accompanied by intraoperative and postoperative complications. Nasal irrigation, steroids, and antibiotics appear to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms to a certain extent. Studies on other potentially useful drugs are underway and in the exploration stage, without clinical application.

Conclusions

Despite its high incidence, radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis is a type of dose‐limiting toxicity that theoretically does not produce fatal effects at controlled doses and with adequate follow‐up care. In moderate‐to‐severe cases, toxicity may be present. Currently, radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis has potential prevention and treatment strategies. However, no unified management protocol has shown significant improvement in radiation‐induced rhinosinusitis. Further research is necessary.
Reflections on bubble walls
Authors: Garcia Isabel Garcia , Koszegi Giacomo , Petrossian-Byrne Rudin
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We discuss the dynamics of expanding bubble walls in the presence of massive dark photons whose mass changes as they cross the wall. For sufficiently thin walls, we show that there exists a transient kinematic regime characterized by a constant reflection probability of longitudinal — but not transverse — modes. This effect can have important implications for the dynamics of expanding vacuum bubbles in the early Universe. Most notably, it leads to a new source of pressure on the expanding interface, featuring a non-monotonic dependence on the γ-factor of the bubble walls and reaching a peak at intermediate γ-factors that we dub Maximum Dynamic Pressure. When this pressure is large enough to halt the acceleration of the bubble walls, the difference in vacuum energy densities goes into making a fraction of the dark photons relativistic, turning them into dark radiation. If the dark radiation remains relativistic until late times, an observable contribution to ∆Neff is possible for phase transitions with strength α ∼ 10−2− 10−1.
p-groups and zeros of characters
Authors: Moretó Alexander , Navarro Gabriel
Published: September 2023

Fix a prime p and an integer $$n\ge 0$$

n
≥
0

. Among the non-linear irreducible characters of the p-groups of order $$p^n$$

p
n

, what is the minimum number of elements that take the value 0?
Prompting meaning: a hermeneutic approach to optimising prompt engineering with ChatGPT
Authors: Henrickson Leah , Meroño-Peñuela Albert
Published: September 2023

Recent advances in natural language generation (NLG), such as public accessibility to ChatGPT, have sparked polarised debates about the societal impact of this technology. Popular discourse tends towards either overoptimistic hype that touts the radically transformative potentials of these systems or pessimistic critique of their technical limitations and general ‘stupidity’. Surprisingly, these debates have largely overlooked the exegetical capacities of these systems, which for many users seem to be producing meaningful texts. In this paper, we take an interdisciplinary approach that combines hermeneutics—the study of meaning and interpretation—with prompt engineering—task descriptions embedded in input to NLG systems—to study the extent to which a specific NLG system, ChatGPT, produces texts of hermeneutic value. We design prompts with the goal of optimising hermeneuticity rather than mere factual accuracy, and apply them in four different use cases combining humans and ChatGPT as readers and writers. In most cases, ChatGPT produces readable texts that respond clearly to our requests. However, increasing the specificity of prompts’ task descriptions leads to texts with intensified neutrality, indicating that ChatGPT’s optimisation for factual accuracy may actually be detrimental to the hermeneuticity of its output.
Identifying the size and geographic scope of short-term rural cost-of-living increases in the United States
Authors: Díaz-Dapena Alberto , Loveridge Scott , Paredes Dusan
Published: September 2023

Difference in terms of cost-of-living between rural and urban areas is a frequent theoretical analysis in Regional Economics. Lack of routine measures in rural areas does not usually allow to observe changes in rural costs. We adapt the Big Mac index, typically used to measure purchasing power parity between countries, as a potential quick and inexpensive indicator of short-term local price variations. With a national random sample of McDonald's stores repeated in time, we find prices grew slightly faster in rural areas than in urban areas. Spatial transmission of prices seems to be limited to very localized effects, meaning that rural price increases are not due to urban spillover effects.
From masquerading to blending in: ontogenetic shifts in antipredator camouflage in Wallace’s flying frogs
Authors: Stückler Susanne , Dawkins Xavier I. , Fuxjager Matthew J. , Preininger Doris
Published: September 2023

A diversity of defence colourations that shift over time provides protection against natural enemies. Adaptations for camouflage depend on an organism’s interactions with the natural environment (predators, habitat), which can change ontogenetically. Wallace’s flying frogs (Rhacophorus nigropalmatus) are cryptic emerald green in their adult life stage, but juveniles are bright red and develop white spots on their back 1 month after metamorphosis. This latter conspicuous visual appearance might function as antipredator strategy, where frogs masquerade as bird or bat droppings so that predators misidentified them as inedible objects. To test this idea, we created different paraffin wax frog models—red with white spots, red without white spots, green, and unpainted—and placed them in equal numbers within a > 800 m2 rainforest house at the Vienna Zoo. This environment closely resembles the Bornean rainforest and includes several free-living avian predators of frogs. We observed an overall hit rate of 15.5%. A visual model showed that the contrast of red, green and control models against the background colouration could be discriminated by avian predators, whereas green models had less chromatic difference than red morphs. The attack rate was significantly greater for red but was reduced by half when red models had white spots. The data therefore supports the hypothesis that the juvenile colouration likely acts as a masquerade strategy, disguising frogs as animal droppings which provides similar protection as the cryptic green adult colour. We discuss the ontogenetic colour change as a possible antipredator strategy in relation to the different habitats used at different life stages.

Significance statement

Predation pressure and the evolution of antipredator strategies site at the cornerstone of animal-behaviour research. Effective antipredator strategies can change in response to different habitats that animals use during different life stages. We study ontogenetic shifts in colour change as dynamic antipredator strategy in juvenile and adult Wallace’s flying frogs. We show that the unusual colour pattern of juveniles (bright red with small white spots) likely functions as a masquerade of animal droppings. Specifically, we show that white dotting, which can be associated with animal faeces, acts as the main visual feature that turns an otherwise highly conspicuous individual into a surprisingly camouflaged one. To our knowledge, this is the first experimental exploration of a vertebrate masquerading as animal droppings.
In vitro release study of electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone)/gelatin nanofiber mats loaded with 5-fluorouracil
Authors: Samy Moshera , Ekram Basma , Abd El-Hady Bothaina M. , Ayoub Magdy M. H.
Published: September 2023

The electrospinning process was used to successfully encapsulate an anticancer drug, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), into poly(ε-caprolactone)/gelatin (Gel) nanofiber mats (5-FU-PCL/Gel NFs). Nanofibers are recognized to be potential carriers for the delivery of anticancer drugs. One of the safest solvent systems for making PCL/Gel NF mats is the formic acid/acetic acid (FA/AA) solvent system. A compound solution jet was drawn from a customized coaxial spinneret using a high potential electric field of 20 kV. The loading of 5-FU with three different concentrations (5, 10, and 15 wt.%) improved PCL stabilization in the FA/AA system. The miscibility of the blended polymers in the electrospun nanofibers mats and 5-FU being well distributed in the nanofiber matrix was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD). In vitro 5-FU release from electrospun PCL/Gel NF mats revealed sustained release from the nanofiber mats, whereas slower release was found when higher concentrations of 5-FU were used. The produced electrospun PCL/Gel NF mats were studied by SEM, FTIR, TGA, and DSC. According to a study on drug release kinetics, 5-FU was released from PCl/Gel NFs in a diffusion-controlled pattern.
Long-term control of acromegaly after pituitary surgery in South-Eastern Norway
Authors: Falch Camilla M. , Dupont Anne K. , Olarescu Nicoleta C. , Wiedmann Markus , Dahlberg Daniel , Bollerslev Jens , Berg-Johnsen Jon , Heck Ansgar
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Sustained cure of acromegaly can only be achieved by surgery. Most growth hormone (GH) secreting pituitary adenomas are macroadenomas (≥ 10 mm) at diagnosis, with reported surgical cure rates of approximately 50%. Long-term data on disease control rates after surgery are limited. Our aim was to estimate short- and long-term rates of biochemical control after pituitary surgery in acromegaly and identify predictive factors.

Methods

Patients operated for GH-secreting pituitary adenomas between 2005–2020 were included from the local pituitary registry (n = 178). Disease activity and treatment data were recorded at one-year (short-term) and five-year (long-term) postoperative follow-up. Biochemical control was defined as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) ≤ 1.2 × upper limit of normal value. Multivariate regression models were used to identify factors potentially predicting biochemical control.

Results

A total of 178 patients with acromegaly (median age at diagnosis 49 (IQR: 38–59) years, 46% women) were operated for a pituitary adenoma. Biochemical control was achieved by surgery in 53% at short-term and 41% at long-term follow-up, without additional treatment for acromegaly. Biochemical control rates by surgery were of same magnitude in paired samples (45% vs. 41%, p = 0.213) for short- and long-term follow-up, respectively. At short-term, 62% of patients with microadenomas and 51% with macroadenomas, achieved biochemical control. At long-term, the biochemical control rate was 58% for microadenomas and 37% for macroadenomas (p = 0.058). With adjunctive treatment, 82% achieved biochemical control at long-term. Baseline IGF-1 levels significantly predicted biochemical control by surgery at short-term (OR: 0.98 (95% CI: 0.96–0.99), p = 0.011), but not at long-term (OR: 0.76 (95% CI: 0.57–1.00), p = 0.053).

Conclusion

In unselected patients with acromegaly, the long-term biochemical control rate remains modest. Our findings indicate a need to identify patients at an earlier stage and improve therapeutic methods and surgical outcomes.
Quantifying future water-saving potential under climate change and groundwater recharge scenarios in Lower Chenab Canal, Indus River Basin
Authors: Shafeeque Muhammad , Hafeez Mohsin , Sarwar Abid , Arshad Arfan , Khurshid Tahira , Asim Muhammad Irfan , Ali Shoaib , Dilawar Adil
Published: September 2023

Quantifying water-saving potential (WSP) is crucial for sustainable water resource management in canal command areas and river basins. Previous studies have partially or fully ignored the importance of groundwater in WSP assessments, particularly in irrigated areas. This study is aimed at quantifying WSP in the Lower Chenab Canal (LCC) command area of the Indus River Basin, Pakistan, under various scenarios of future climate change and groundwater recharge. These quantifications are conducted using an empirical model based on the Budyko theory. The model was forced using observed, remote sensing, and CMIP6 future climate data for two Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP245 and SSP585) and their ensembles (cold-dry, cold-wet, warm-dry, and warm-wet) for possible futures. The results showed that the average WSP in the LCC command area was 466 ± 48 mm/year during the historical period (2001–2020). The WSP is projected to decrease by – 68 ± 3% under the warm-dry ensemble scenario (SSP245 and SSP585) and – 48 ± 13% under the ensembled cold-wet scenario by 2100. The results also demonstrated that WSP could be increased by up to 70 ± 9% by artificially recharging 20% of the abstracted groundwater per year in the LCC command area by the late twenty-first century. Our findings highlight the importance of adopting artificial groundwater recharge to enhance the WSP and sustainably manage water resources in the LCC command area. Policymakers should consider these findings when deciding on water resource management in the Indus River Basin.
Active oscillations in microscale navigation
Authors: Wan Kirsty Y.
Published: September 2023

Living organisms routinely navigate their surroundings in search of better conditions, more food, or to avoid predators. Typically, animals do so by integrating sensory cues from the environment with their locomotor apparatuses. For single cells or small organisms that possess motility, fundamental physical constraints imposed by their small size have led to alternative navigation strategies that are specific to the microscopic world. Intriguingly, underlying these myriad exploratory behaviours or sensory functions is the onset of periodic activity at multiple scales, such as the undulations of cilia and flagella, the vibrations of hair cells, or the oscillatory shape modes of migrating neutrophils. Here, I explore oscillatory dynamics in basal microeukaryotes and hypothesize that these active oscillations play a critical role in enhancing the fidelity of adaptive sensorimotor integration.
Why Weaving? Teaching Heritage, Mathematics, Science and the Self
Authors: Balabuch Allison , Rasoarifetra Bako
Published: September 2023

Weaving provides an access point to teach students about the heritage and the dynamic cultural importance of weaving practices in Africa. Weaving education teaches patience and perseverance. It also teaches math from a practical and problem-solving stance, which values ethnomathematical knowledge and skills. Weaving teaches science through the understanding and environmental sustainability of local plants and their practical uses. Throughout this article, we have interwoven our own teaching stories from Canada and Ghana (Allison Balabuch) and Madagascar (Bako Rasoarifetra) through the themes of heritage, mathematics, science, and the development of the self. This article discusses the importance and value of including weaving education into the classroom.
An experimental comparison of multiple-choice and short-answer questions on a high-stakes test for medical students
Authors: Mee Janet , Pandian Ravi , Wolczynski Justin , Morales Amy , Paniagua Miguel , Harik Polina , Baldwin Peter , Clauser Brian E.
Published: September 2023

Recent advances in automated scoring technology have made it practical to replace multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with short-answer questions (SAQs) in large-scale, high-stakes assessments. However, most previous research comparing these formats has used small examinee samples testing under low-stakes conditions. Additionally, previous studies have not reported on the time required to respond to the two item types. This study compares the difficulty, discrimination, and time requirements for the two formats when examinees responded as part of a large-scale, high-stakes assessment. Seventy-one MCQs were converted to SAQs. These matched items were randomly assigned to examinees completing a high-stakes assessment of internal medicine. No examinee saw the same item in both formats. Items administered in the SAQ format were generally more difficult than items in the MCQ format. The discrimination index for SAQs was modestly higher than that for MCQs and response times were substantially higher for SAQs. These results support the interchangeability of MCQs and SAQs. When it is important that the examinee generate the response rather than selecting it, SAQs may be preferred. The results relating to difficulty and discrimination reported in this paper are consistent with those of previous studies. The results on the relative time requirements for the two formats suggest that with a fixed testing time fewer SAQs can be administered, this limitation more than makes up for the higher discrimination that has been reported for SAQs. We additionally examine the extent to which increased difficulty may directly impact the discrimination of SAQs.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound for non-invasive differential diagnosis of unclear left atrial mass
Authors: Christa Martin , Müntze Jonas , Lengenfelder Björn , Nordbeck Peter
Published: September 2023

Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography detected a left atrial mass attached to the intra-atrialseptum. Intravenous contrast agent ruled out atrial thrombus, sugesting a left atrial myxoma. This highlights theimportance of contrast echocardiography for differential diagnosis of left atrial findings.
A modified neo-Hookean model for semi-crystalline thermoplastics assessed by relaxation and zero-stress creep tests of recycled polypropylene and polyoxymethylene
Authors: Stoltz Björn , Lindvall Magnus , Kroon Martin
Published: September 2023

The mechanical behavior of thermoplastics is strongly rate-dependent, and oftentimes it is difficult to find constitutive models that can accurately describe their behavior in the small to moderate strain regime. In this paper, a hyperelastic network model (modified neo-Hookean) and a set of experiments are presented. The testing consists of monotonic tensile loading as well as stress relaxation and zero stress creep. Two materials were tested, polyoxymethylene (POM) and recycled polypropylene (rPP), representing one more rigid and brittle and one softer and more ductile semi-crystalline polymer. The model contains two main novelties. The first novelty is that the stiffness is allowed to vary with the elastic deformation (in contrast to a standard neo-Hookean model). The second novelty is that the exponent governing viscous relaxation is allowed to vary with the viscous deformation. The basic features of the new model are illustrated, and the model was fitted to the experimental data. The model proved to be able to describe the experimental results well.