bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational assessment of the use of graphene‐based nanosheets as PtII chemotherapeutics delivery systems
Authors: Belletto Daniele , Vigna Vincenzo , Barretta Pierraffaele , Ponte Fortuna , Mazzone Gloria , Scoditti Stefano , Sicilia Emilia
Published: May 2024

Graphene is the newest form of elemental carbon and it is becoming rapidly a potential candidate in the framework of nano‐bio research. Many reports confirm the successful use of graphene‐based materials as carriers of anticancer drugs having relatively high loading capacities compared with other nanocarriers. Here, the outcomes of a systematic study of the adsorption behavior of FDA approved PtII drugs cisplatin, oxaliplatin, and carboplatin on surface models of pristine, holey, and nitrogen‐doped holey graphene are reported. DFT investigations in water solvent have been carried out considering several initial orientations of the drugs with respect to the surfaces. Adsorption free energies, calculated including basis set superposition error (BSSE) corrections, result to be significantly negative for many of the drug@carrier adducts indicating that tested layers could be used as potential carriers for the delivery of anticancer PtII drugs. The reduced density gradient (RDG) analysis allows to show that many kinds of non‐covalent interactions, including canonical H‐bond, are responsible for the stabilization of the formed adducts.
Skeletal muscle hypertrophy rewires glucose metabolism: An experimental investigation and systematic review
Authors: Baumert Philipp , Mäntyselkä Sakari , Schönfelder Martin , Heiber Marie , Jacobs Mika Jos , Swaminathan Anandini , Minderis Petras , Dirmontas Mantas , Kleigrewe Karin , Meng Chen , Gigl Michael , Ahmetov Ildus I. , Venckunas Tomas , Degens Hans , Ratkevicius Aivaras , Hulmi Juha J. , Wackerhage Henning
Published: May 2024

Background

Proliferating cancer cells shift their metabolism towards glycolysis, even in the presence of oxygen, to especially generate glycolytic intermediates as substrates for anabolic reactions. We hypothesize that a similar metabolic remodelling occurs during skeletal muscle hypertrophy.

Methods

We used mass spectrometry in hypertrophying C2C12 myotubes in vitro and plantaris mouse muscle in vivo and assessed metabolomic changes and the incorporation of the [U‐13C6]glucose tracer. We performed enzyme inhibition of the key serine synthesis pathway enzyme phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (Phgdh) for further mechanistic analysis and conducted a systematic review to align any changes in metabolomics during muscle growth with published findings. Finally, the UK Biobank was used to link the findings to population level.

Results

The metabolomics analysis in myotubes revealed insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1)‐induced altered metabolite concentrations in anabolic pathways such as pentose phosphate (ribose‐5‐phosphate/ribulose‐5‐phosphate: +40%; P = 0.01) and serine synthesis pathway (serine: −36.8%; P = 0.009). Like the hypertrophy stimulation with IGF‐1 in myotubes in vitro, the concentration of the dipeptide l‐carnosine was decreased by 26.6% (P = 0.001) during skeletal muscle growth in vivo. However, phosphorylated sugar (glucose‐6‐phosphate, fructose‐6‐phosphate or glucose‐1‐phosphate) decreased by 32.2% (P = 0.004) in the overloaded muscle in vivo while increasing in the IGF‐1‐stimulated myotubes in vitro. The systematic review revealed that 10 metabolites linked to muscle hypertrophy were directly associated with glycolysis and its interconnected anabolic pathways. We demonstrated that labelled carbon from [U‐13C6]glucose is increasingly incorporated by ~13% (P = 0.001) into the non‐essential amino acids in hypertrophying myotubes, which is accompanied by an increased depletion of media serine (P = 0.006). The inhibition of Phgdh suppressed muscle protein synthesis in growing myotubes by 58.1% (P < 0.001), highlighting the importance of the serine synthesis pathway for maintaining muscle size. Utilizing data from the UK Biobank (n = 450 243), we then discerned genetic variations linked to the serine synthesis pathway (PHGDH and PSPH) and to its downstream enzyme (SHMT1), revealing their association with appendicular lean mass in humans (P < 5.0e‐8).

Conclusions

Understanding the mechanisms that regulate skeletal muscle mass will help in developing effective treatments for muscle weakness. Our results provide evidence for the metabolic rewiring of glycolytic intermediates into anabolic pathways during muscle growth, such as in serine synthesis.
A more accurate view of the Flat Wall Theorem
Authors: Sau Ignasi , Stamoulis Giannos , Thilikos Dimitrios M.
Published: May 2024

We introduce a supporting combinatorial framework for the Flat Wall Theorem. In particular, we suggest two variants of the theorem and we introduce a new, more versatile, concept of wall homogeneity as well as the notion of regularity in flat walls. All proposed concepts and results aim at facilitating the use of the irrelevant vertex technique in future algorithmic applications.
Synthesis of various 1‐alkylbenzimidazole derivatives directly from 2‐alkylaminonitroarenes via a two‐step, one‐pot procedure
Authors: Walewska‐Królikiewicz Magdalena , Wilk Bogdan , Kwast Andrzej , Wróbel Zbigniew
Published: May 2024

N‐Alkyl‐2‐nitroanilines deoxygenated with tributylphosphine form intermediate 2‐(alkylamino)aryliminophosphoranes, which were subjected, without isolation, to various cyclocondensation reactions with CS2, CO2, alkyl isocyanates, acyl chlorides, anhydrides, or esters. A simple, convenient, one‐pot procedure provided derivatives of unsymmetrically substituted 1‐alkylbenzimidazoles functionalized at C2 in good to excellent yields. The method does not require the use of metals, sensitive catalysts, or pressure.
Clinical pharmacology considerations for first‐in‐human clinical trials for enzyme replacement therapy
Authors: Stern Sydney , Wang Jie , Li Ruo‐Jing , Hon Yuen Yi , Weis Shawna L. , Wang Yow‐Ming C. , Schuck Robert , Pacanowski Michael
Published: May 2024

Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) such as lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are conditions caused by deficiency of one or more key enzymes, cofactors, or transporters involved in a specific metabolic pathway. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) provides an exogenous source of the affected enzyme and is one of the most effective treatment options for IEMs. In this paper, we review the first‐in‐human (FIH) protocols for ERT drug development programs supporting 20 Biologic License Applications (BLA) approved by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the period of May 1994 to September 2023. We surveyed study design elements across these FIH protocols including study population, dosage form, dose selection, treatment duration, immunogenicity, biomarkers, and study follow‐up. A total of 18 FIH trials from 20 BLAs were identified and of those, 72% (13/18) used single ascending dose (SAD) and/or multiple ascending dose (MAD) study design, 83% (15/18) had a primary objective of assessing the safety and tolerability, 72% (13/18) included clinical endpoint assessments, and 94% (17/18) included biomarker assessments as secondary or exploratory endpoints. Notably, the majority of ERT products tested the approved route of administration and the approved dose was tested in 83% (15/18) of FIH trials. At last, we offer considerations for the design of FIH studies.
Recurrent episodes of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia: Sites of ablation success, ablation endpoint, and primary culprits for recurrence
Authors: Hirata Shu , Nagashima Koichi , Kaneko Yoshiaki , Tamura Shuntaro , Mori Hitoshi , Nishiuchi Suguru , Tokuda Michifumi , Kawaji Tetsuma , Hayashi Tatsuya , Nishimura Takuro , Fukunaga Masato , Kishihara Jun , Fukaya Hidehira , Teranishi Jin , Takami Mitsuru , Okada Masato , Miyazaki Naoko , Watanabe Ryuta , Wakamatsu Yuji , Okumura Yasuo
Published: May 2024

Background

Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) sometimes recurs even after anatomical slow pathway (SP) ablation targeting the rightward inferior extension (RIE). This multicenter study aimed to determine the reasons for AVNRT recurrence.

Methods and Results

Forty‐six patients were treated successfully for recurrent AVNRT. Initial treatment was for 38 slow‐fast AVNRTs, 3 fast‐slow AVNRTs, 2 slow‐slow AVNRTs, 2 slow‐fast and fast‐slow AVNRTs, and 1 noninducible AVNRT. All initial treatments were of RF application to the RIE; SP elimination was achieved in 11, dual AVN physiology was seen in 29, and AVNRT remained inducible in 5. The recurrent AVNRTs included 34 slow‐fast AVNRTs, 6 fast‐slow AVNRTs, 3 slow‐slow AVNRTs, 2 slow‐fast and fast‐slow AVNRTs, and 1 slow‐fast and slow‐slow AVNRTs. Successful ablation site was within the RIE in 39 and left inferior extension in 7. In 30 of 39, the successful RIE site was in the same area or higher than that of the initial procedure.

Conclusion

For a high majority (around 85%) of patients in whom AVNRT recurs after initial ablation success, the site of a second successful procedure will be within the RIE even though the RIE was originally targeted. Furthermore, a high majority (around 86%) of sites of successful ablation will be higher than those originally targeted.
Reducing resolution loss in naked‐eye 3D display using dual ferroelectric liquid crystal shutters for time‐multiplexed light‐field display
Authors: Sun Zhi‐Bo , Yuan Zheng‐Nan , Huo Yi‐Peng , Dong Shou‐Cheng , Cheung Alex Y. L. , Vashchenko Valerii , Vashchenko Olena , Srivastava Abhishek , Kwok Hoi‐Sing
Published: May 2024

Usually, the resolution loss is severe in light‐field display due to the spatial multiplexing of several neighboring pixels to display images from different directions. However, limited by the resolution of the flat panel display, the light‐field 3D display shows insufficient display size, 3D image depth, or resolution. This article uses optimized ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) shutters with high contrast (~1000:1), ultra‐fast response (<20 μs), and polarity‐related binary switching at low operating voltage (5 V). This article utilized 32 time‐sequentially opened FLC light valve arrays refreshed at 2 kHz to display images from different directions. Because of the polarity‐sensitive switching nature of FLC, the reverse phase induces serious crosstalk between different images. This work uses the timing synchronization method of dual‐FLC liquid crystal cells to achieve independent control of 32 light valves without reverse phase, reducing the crosstalk and increasing the equivalent 3D resolution by multiplexing the flat panel display 32 times within 60 Hz.
Incidental pigmented basal cell carcinoma discovered on positron emission tomography (PET)
Authors: Jazaeri Yasaman , Del Marmol Véronique , Suppa Mariano , Dumarey Nicolas
Published: May 2024

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), which frequently occurs in sun‐exposed areas of the head and neck region, is the most common cutaneous malignancy but the least studied with radiologic imaging techniques. This article outlines the case of a 65‐year‐old male with a pigmented BCC of the right shoulder discovered on positron emission tomography‐computed tomography (PET/CT). The lesion was initially suspected as a melanoma. However, the histopathological features showed a tumor of basaloid cells. PET/CT is an excellent technique for the detection of hypermetabolic tumors, such as melanoma, squamous cell and Merkel cell carcinomas, in lymph nodes and distant organs. The usefulness of PET is limited for slowly growing tumors, such as BCC. However, PET/CT can be useful for the detection of distant metastasis in locally advanced BCC as well as in the follow‐up of locally advanced BCC on Hedgehog inhibitors.
Hinge screw or no hinge stabilization provides decreased stability compared to hinge plate in a biomechanical evaluation of distal femoral derotational osteotomies
Authors: Ferner Felix , Hammersdorfer Nele , Hembus Jessica , Saß Jan‐Oliver , Bader Rainer , Klinder Annett , Hiepe Laura , Holl Norman , Lutter Christoph
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Derotational distal femoral osteotomy (DFO) is the causal treatment for patients with femoral torsional deformity. The fixation is achieved by a unilateral angle‐stable plate. Delayed‐ or non‐unions are one of the main risks of the procedure. An additional contralateral fixation may benefit the outcome. Therefore, we hypothesize that primary stability in DFO can be improved by an additional fixation with a hinge screw or an internal plate.

Methods

Derotational DFO was performed in 15 knees and fixed either with an angle‐stable plate only (group ‘None’), with an additional lateral screw (group ‘Screw’) or with an additional lateral plate (group ‘Plate’). Biomechanical evaluation was carried out under axial loading of 150 N (partial weight bearing) and 800 N (full weight bearing), followed by internal and external rotation. After linear axial loading in step 1, a cyclic torsional load of 5 Nm was applied under constant axial load in step 2. In step 3, the specimens were unloaded. Micromovements between the distal and proximal parts of the osteotomy were recorded at each step for all specimens.

Results

In step 1, the extent of micromovements was highest in group ‘None’ and lowest in group ‘Plate’ without being significantly different. In step 2, group ‘Plate’ showed significantly higher stability, reflected by less rotation and lower micromovements. Increasing the axial load from 150 to 800 N at step 2 resulted in increased stability in all groups but only reached significance in group ‘None’.

Conclusion

An additional contralateral plate significantly increased stability in derotational DFO compared to the unilateral angle‐stable plate only. Contrary, a contralateral hinge screw did not provide improved stability.

Study Design

Experimental study.

Level of Evidence

IV.
A study of baseline data from SPRINT: Exploring lipid profile changes in middle‐aged and elderly patients
Authors: Feng Qun , Zhang Yanzhi , Wang Zijuan , Yang Peng , Zhang Yu , Fu Bin
Published: May 2024

The elderly population is at a higher risk of cardiovascular complications, and dyslipidemia plays a significant role as a contributing factor. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are prone to lipid abnormalities, further increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications. We aimed to investigate the lipid profile characteristics of the middle‐aged and elderly population, particularly CKD patients. We conducted a cross‐sectional study using baseline data from the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT). It was examined how lipid profiles are affected by age within the general population, and how BMI and lipid characteristics are affected by CKD subtype. Among 8746 participants, we observed a decreasing trend in LnTAG (natural logarithm of Triacylglycerol) and total Cholesterol (CHR) levels with increasing age, while high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) levels increased with age. In the CKD and non‐CKD subgroups created through propensity score matching based on age, sex, and race, CKD individuals exhibited significantly higher average LnTAG levels across all age groups compared to the non‐CKD group. Multivariable linear regression analysis, controlling for confounding variables, revealed a negative correlation between LnTAG and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (r = −0.002, p < 0.001). HDL‐C showed a positive correlation with eGFR (r = 0.001, p < 0.001). [Correction added on 1 July 2024, after first online publication: The value of r in the preceding sentence has been updated to r = 0.001.] That is, in the middle‐aged and elderly population, age demonstrated a negative correlation with total CHR and TAG levels, while exhibiting a positive correlation with HDL‐C levels. CKD patients exhibited relatively higher TAG levels, which were positively associated with CKD progression.
Advancing Surface‐Enhanced Electrospun Nanofiber Membranes: Customizing Properties for Enhanced Performance in Membrane Distillation
Authors: Lobregas Michaela Olisha S. , Rangkupan Ratthapol , Riassetto David , Klaysom Chalida
Published: May 2024

Electrospun nanofiber membranes (ENMs) have emerged as a cutting‐edge solution for membrane distillation (MD), recognized for their highly porous and interconnected architecture. This distinctive structure enables them to offer minimal mass transfer resistance, making them exceptionally suited for high‐efficiency membrane‐based separation processes. However, the very porosity that defines their strength also renders them vulnerable to fouling, scaling, and wetting during operation, which in turn compromises their performance. Current research efforts are geared toward overcoming these obstacles by refining the surface design and characteristics of ENMs. This review delves into the latest advancements in surface‐enhanced electrospun nanofiber membranes tailored for MD applications. It discusses the existing gaps in research and provides forward‐looking insights into the future of ENMs, spotlighting the development of membranes with precisely tunable surface attributes for optimized performance.
Hyperelliptic genus 3 curves with involutions and a Prym map
Authors: Borówka Paweł , Shatsila Anatoli
Published: May 2024

We characterize genus 3 complex smooth hyperelliptic curves that admit two additional involutions as curves that can be built from five points in with a distinguished triple. We are able to write down explicit equations for the curves and all their quotient curves. We show that, fixing one of the elliptic quotient curve, the Prym map becomes a 2:1 map and therefore the hyperelliptic Klein Prym map, constructed recently by the first author with A. Ortega, is also 2:1 in this case. As a by‐product we show an explicit family of polarized abelian surfaces (for ), such that any surface in the family satisfying a certain explicit condition is abstractly non‐isomorphic to its dual abelian surface.
How do advertised prices affect consumers' financial well‐being and happiness?
Authors: Dahlen Micael , Colliander Jonas , Gajic Vladan , Kim Olivia , Thorbjørnsen Helge
Published: May 2024

Commercial advertisements are intended to persuade consumers to purchase products, but their influence can often extend unintentionally and uninvitedly to noncommercial domains. Researchers have uncovered many such unintended ad effects—from lowered self‐esteem to increased empathy. This paper adds to the research on unintended ad effects by examining the variable of price in advertisements, and its influence on people's perceived (1) financial well‐being, (2) happiness, (3) time–money evaluations (4) proneness to prosocial behavior, and (5) calculative mindset. The first study was conducted on Swedish nationals through the Swedish national survey company, Nepa. The participants were exposed to advertisements with high versus low levels of prices. We find that those exposed to lower‐priced ads feel better off financially, and consequently happier, place relatively higher value on time over money, and are more likely to help a friend in need than those exposed to higher‐priced ads. The second study was conducted on a US sample using Prolific and further investigated the mechanism behind the effects found in the first study. In this study, we again find an effect of advertised prices on happiness, but not on the other dependent variables. The study results shed new light on the role of advertising and prices on consumer's appraisal of their own financial‐ and psychological well‐being.
Mapping protein–protein interactions by mass spectrometry
Authors: Liu Xiaonan , Abad Lawrence , Chatterjee Lopamudra , Cristea Ileana M. , Varjosalo Markku
Published: May 2024

Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) are essential for numerous biological activities, including signal transduction, transcription control, and metabolism. They play a pivotal role in the organization and function of the proteome, and their perturbation is associated with various diseases, such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and infectious diseases. Recent advances in mass spectrometry (MS)‐based protein interactomics have significantly expanded our understanding of the PPIs in cells, with techniques that continue to improve in terms of sensitivity, and specificity providing new opportunities for the study of PPIs in diverse biological systems. These techniques differ depending on the type of interaction being studied, with each approach having its set of advantages, disadvantages, and applicability. This review highlights recent advances in enrichment methodologies for interactomes before MS analysis and compares their unique features and specifications. It emphasizes prospects for further improvement and their potential applications in advancing our knowledge of PPIs in various biological contexts.
Relationship between pulmonary, cough, and swallowing functions in individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Donohue Cara , Vasilopoulos Terrie , Wymer James P. , Plowman Emily K.
Published: May 2024

Introduction/Aims

Evaluations of pulmonary, cough, and swallow function are frequently performed to assess disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), yet the relationship between these functions remains unknown. We therefore aimed to determine relationships between these measures in individuals with ALS.

Methods

One hundred individuals with ALS underwent standardized tests: forced vital capacity (FVC), maximum expiratory/inspiratory pressure (MEP, MIP), voluntary cough peak expiratory flow (PEF), and videofluoroscopic swallow evaluation (VF). Duplicate raters completed independent, blinded ratings using the Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) scale. Descriptives, Spearman's Rho correlations, Kruskal–Wallis analyses, and Pearson's chi‐squared tests were completed.

Results

Mean and standard deviation across pulmonary and cough measures were FVC: 74.2% predicted (± 22.6), MEP: 91.6 cmH2O (± 46.4), MIP cmH2O: 61.1 (± 28.9), voluntary PEF: 352.7 L/min (± 141.6). DIGEST grades included: 0 (normal swallowing): 31%, 1 (mild dysphagia): 48%, 2 (moderate dysphagia): 10%, 3 (severe dysphagia): 10%, and 4 (life‐threatening dysphagia): 1%. Positive correlations were observed: MEP‐MIP: r = .76, MIP‐PEF: r = .68, MEP‐PEF: r = .61, MIP‐FVC: r = .60, PEF‐FVC: r = .49, and MEP‐FVC: r = .46, p < .0001. MEP (p = .009) and PEF (p = .04) differed across DIGEST safety grades. Post hoc analyses revealed significant between group differences in MEP and PEF across DIGEST safety grades 0 versus 1 and grades 0 versus 3, (p < .05).

Discussion

In this cohort of individuals with ALS, pulmonary function, and voluntary cough were associated. Expiratory metrics (MEP, PEF) were diminished in individuals with unsafe swallowing, increasing their risk for effectively defending the airway.
The effectiveness of mobile app usage in facilitating weight loss: An observational study
Authors: Huntriss Rosemary , Salimgaraev Rodion , Nikogosov Dimitri , Powell John , Varady Krista A.
Published: May 2024

Aim

With increasing rates of global obesity and associated health issues, there is an ever‐increasing need for weight management solutions to be more accessible. Mobile applications offer accessible support systems and have the potential to offer a viable and effective weight management solution as an alternative to traditional healthcare models.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of the SIMPLE mobile application for time‐restricted eating in achieving weight loss (WL).

Methods

User data were analyzed between January 2021 and January 2023. In‐app activity was calculated as the proportion of active days over 12, 26 and 52 weeks. A day is considered active if it contains at least one in‐app action (e.g., logging weight, food, fasting, or physical activity). Users were categorized into four in‐app activity levels: inactive (in‐app activity <33%), medium activity (33%–66%), high activity (66%–99%), and maximal activity (100%). Weight change among in‐app activity groups was assessed at 12, 26, and 52 weeks.

Results

Out of 53,482 users, a positive association was found between the use of the SIMPLE app and WL. Active app users lost more weight than their less active counterparts. Active users had a median WL of 4.20%, 5.04%, and 3.86% at 12, 26, and 52 weeks, respectively. A larger percentage of active users—up to 50.26%—achieved clinically significant WL (≥5%) when compared to inactive users. A dose‐response relationship between WL and app usage was found after adjusting for gender, age, and initial Body Mass Index; a 10% increase in app activity correlated with increased WL by 0.43, 0.66 and 0.69 kg at 12, 26, and 52 weeks, respectively.

Conclusions

The study demonstrates that the SIMPLE app enables effective WL directly associated with the level of app engagement. Mobile health applications offer an accessible and effective weight management solution and should be considered when supporting adults to lose weight.
National registry of thoracoamniotic shunting using a double‐basket catheter: A post‐marketing surveillance registry of 295 patients with fetal hydrothorax
Authors: Takahashi Yuichiro , Ishii Keisuke , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Imai Kenji , Baba Kazunori , Sago Haruhiko
Published: May 2024

Objective

We report on the 1‐year outcomes of fetuses who underwent thoracoamniotic shunting (TAS) with a double‐basket catheter for fetal hydrothorax (FHT) using a national post‐marketing surveillance registry.

Methods

This surveillance study was conducted for cases enrolled between 2011 and 2019. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative findings and outcomes had to be reported through the national surveillance website.

Results

Forty‐three institutes enrolled 295 patients. In 60 patients, associated abnormalities were diagnosed after birth. Among the 235 patients with isolated hydrothorax, the survival rate at 1 year of age was 70.5%. Among these patients, 89% did not require oxygen or other respiratory support. The 1‐year survival rate in complicated cases was 27%. Trisomy 21 was the most common associated problem (40%). Catheter associated problems, including dislocation (25%), obstruction (24%), and preterm rupture of the membranes (6%) were observed, but there were no severe maternal complications. TAS before 29.5 weeks of gestation (odds ratio [OR] 0.16) and skin edema and ascites (OR 0.06) were risk factors for death at one year, whereas appropriate shunt location for >28 days (OR 4.2) was a protective factor.

Conclusion

We report a favorable survival rate in fetuses with isolated FHT treated with this double‐basket catheter.
Keep it simple: Information sources students use when choosing school psychology programs
Authors: Aspiranti Kathleen B. , Hulac David M. , Blake Jessica
Published: May 2024

Those tasked with recruiting students to school psychology programs have limited resources. Yet, they need to identify which sources of information prospective students will use to inform their choice of school psychology programs. A survey was developed to measure which information sources school psychology students consider when applying to graduate programs and to determine which demographic factors contribute to the types of information used. The survey was administered via email and completed by 406 current school psychology students. An exploratory factor analysis found three factors related to General Information, Program Details, and Student Outreach. Overall, students highlighted the importance of general information that is available on the website. Student outreach efforts were less preferred, though students did value the opportunities to talk with faculty members such as the program coordinator. Effects of race, gender, first‐generation status, and in‐state status were not significantly related to student information preferences. Results suggest that programs should consider creating high‐quality program, departmental, and university websites as the most effective way to provide information to prospective students.
Acute psychosis following baclofen overdose
Authors: Mostafa Khandaker , Kelbrick Marlene , Mustafa Feras , Willis Gemma , Paduret Gabriela
Published: May 2024

Baclofen is widely used as a muscle relaxant in neurological and other physical health conditions, as well as for its anticraving effects in substance use disorder. Here the authors describe a case of baclofen overdose resulting in acute psychosis. Clinicians need to consider this in the differential diagnosis of first episode psychosis presentations, as unrecognised, and untreated baclofen overdose‐induced psychosis can be associated with significant morbidity and potential mortality.
Obstructive sleep apnea in children with cystic fibrosis on highly effective modulator therapy
Authors: Shakkottai Aarti , Kim Stephany , Mitchell Ron B.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Highly effective modulator therapies (HEMT) have led to improved sinopulmonary disease, but whether this translates to a lower frequency of OSA is unknown.

Methods

We conducted a single center retrospective review of polysomnographic (PSG) data from 2012 to 2023 in patients aged 0–18 years with CF to assess frequency of OSA. Participants were classified based on HEMT status. Logistic regression was used to quantify the association between HEMT and OSA with p < .05 considered significant.

Results

Forty‐nine children underwent PSG during the study period. Ten percent were of non‐White race and 24% were of Hispanic ethnicity. Twenty‐one children (43%) were on HEMT. These children were older than those not on modulators (11.6 vs. 6.4 years; p = .0001) but no different with respect to gender, race, nutritional status, or lung function. Twenty‐eight (57%) children had OSA. Odds of having OSA were higher in the HEMT group (odds ratio [OR] = 4.3; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2–14.9; p = .02). Tonsillar hypertrophy was associated with an increased odds of having OSA independent of modulator status (OR: 6.6; 95% CI: 1.2–37.9; p = .03).

Conclusions

OSA is frequently diagnosed in the post‐HEMT era in this large, racially diverse group of children with CF. Children on HEMT were older and more likely to have OSA as compared to those not on modulators but similar in nutritional status, lung function, and presence of upper airway pathology. Prospective studies are needed to further clarify the relationship between HEMT and OSA in children with CF.
Reusing medicines to mitigate their environmental impact
Authors: Smith Madeleine
Published: May 2024

Pharmaceutical waste is a serious threat to both human health and the environment. This article discusses the impact of pharmaceutical waste, and explores the possibility of reusing unwanted medicines to mitigate the problem and the current barriers to implementation.
A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study on immune improvement effects of ethanolic extract of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench in Korean adults
Authors: Lee Sung‐Kwon , Lee Dong‐Ryung , Kim Hae‐Lim , Choi Bong‐Keun , Kwon Kang‐Beom
Published: May 2024

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench (EP), a medicinal plant native to North America, is now cultivated in various regions including Europe. With increasing popularity of Echinacea in Korea recently, a human clinical trial was conducted to evaluate immune‐enhancing efficacy and safety of EP 60% ethanolic extract (EPE) in Koreans. Eighty volunteers were recruited for this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial. They were randomly divided into two groups and given either a daily dose of 200 mg of EPE or a placebo. All participants underwent testing for Natural Killer (NK) cell cytotoxic activity, serum cytokine levels (IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐12, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α), Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey‐21 (WURSS‐21), and Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (MFS) during this study to assess changes in outcomes. After 8 weeks of EPE consumption, a significant increase in NK cell cytotoxic activity compared to the placebo was observed. Additionally, serum cytokine levels of IL‐2, IFN‐γ, and TNF‐α also significantly increased following EPE consumption. However, no significant changes were observed in WURSS‐21 and MFS before and after EPE consumption. Throughout the 8‐week study period, no adverse reactions were reported in relation to EPE consumption, and there were no clinically significant changes in diagnostic laboratory tests or vital signs in the EPE group. These results indicate that consumption of EPE could lead to immune improvement without any adverse effects. This clinical trial was the first to demonstrate beneficial effects of EPE consumption on immunity in Korean adults.
Airway stenosis secondary to mediastinal lymph node metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma treated with AERO stent and osimertinib: A case report
Authors: Takigawa Yuki , Sato Ken , Inoue Tomoyoshi , Sato Akiko , Furutaguchi Yui , Goda Mayu , Shiraha Keisuke , Fujiwara Miho , Matsuoka Suzuka , Mitsumune Sho , Watanabe Hiromi , Kudo Kenichiro , Fujiwara Keiichi , Shibayama Takuo
Published: May 2024

A woman in her mid‐50s was admitted to our hospital with airway stenosis secondary to mediastinal lymph node enlargement. An AERO stent was placed under rigid bronchoscopy. Immediately after stent placement, tissue sampling was performed on the lymph nodes. Metastatic lesions were found to have an EGFR mutation (exon 19 deletion). Consequently, osimertinib treatment was initiated 15 days after stent placement. The tumour partially responded to osimertinib, and the airway stenosis improved. The patient underwent stent removal 66 days after stent placement. Our findings indicate that temporary oncological emergencies due to airway stenosis may be bridged by airway stenting.
Full state‐constrained integrated guidance and control for aerial interceptors with tunnel prescribed performance using integral barrier Lyapunov function
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Song Shen‐min , Shi Xiao‐ping
Published: May 2024

A novel full state‐constrained integrated guidance and control (IGC) schema for aerial interceptors under input saturation with tunnel‐prescribed performance is proposed. To achieve an appointed‐time engagement with less overshoot phenomenon, the tunnel‐prescribed performance control (TPPC) technique is applied to generate virtual guidance laws, where the tracking of desired line of sight (LOS) angles possesses predefined‐time convergent property. For the sake of the flight safety of interceptors in a practical flight environment, the physical limitations on the flight angles and the angular rates of attitude systems are taken into consideration. The integral barrier Lyapunov function (iBLF) technique is adopted to ensure all the attitude states within a user‐defined domain. The nominal virtual commands are generated adaptively by the backstepping method combined with some novel dynamic surfaces. To further eliminate the possible input saturation, a novel one‐order auxiliary system is constructed to compensate for the discrepancy of the virtual input commands. All the signals in the closed‐loop system are strictly proven to be bounded by Lyapunov theory. The simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed IGC schema by comparison with other IGC laws.
Stability of highly nonlinear neutral stochastic delay system with both stable and unstable subsystems
Authors: Lin Xiuqin , Shi Zhiyan , Wang Bao
Published: May 2024

The article addresses the exponentially stable conditions of the highly nonlinear neutral stochastic delayed system (HNNSDS) that contains unstable subsystems apart from stable ones under Markov switching. By the application of the mode‐dependent average dwell time (MDADT) as well as Lyapunov function approach, the general switching condition still satisfies even when the partial Lyapunov coefficients are negative. In addition, the degree of instability is combined with the study of switching signals. On this basis, the case when the system contains only stable subsystems is also investigated. A well‐known switching condition is obtained, establish the foundation of the comparison with more complex cases involving unstable subsystems. The simulation processes are eventually provided to verify rationality of the obtained criteria.
Synchronization of coupled neural networks with multiple switching topologies via adaptive control techniques
Authors: Cao Yuting , Zhao Linhao , Zhong Qishui , Shi Kaibo , Xiao Jianying , Wen Shiping
Published: May 2024

This research paper primarily focuses on the synchronization of a specific class of multi‐weighted coupled neural networks (MWCNNs) with switching topology, employing two adaptive control methods. In complex environments and under the influence of communication disturbances, the topology structures of coupled neural networks with multiple weights inevitably undergo time‐varying changes. To address this, we propose a novel type of MWCNNs with switching topologies. To ensure synchronization within this network, we develop sufficient conditions based on Lyapunov functional and inequality techniques. These conditions guarantee the achievement of synchronization. Moreover, we address the synchronization problem by employing node‐based and edge‐based adaptive controllers. Finally, we provide a numerical example to demonstrate the effectiveness of the obtained results. This example serves as empirical evidence showcasing the successful application of the proposed synchronization approach in practical scenarios.
Documenting and communicating the contributions of embedded statisticians: Show me the value!
Authors: Vasilopoulos Terrie , Crisp Amy , Garvan Gerard , Howell Keith , Janelle Gregory , Garvan Cynthia
Published: May 2024

Academic research productivity relies upon the contribution of statisticians, who are typically clustered in statistics and biostatistics departments, isolated from clinical researchers. Most academic health centres have created consultation hubs or research incubators to make statisticians available for individual collaboration to support the clinical research enterprise. Additionally, some clinical departments within academic health centres have recognized the value in colocating statisticians within their clinical departments to improve availability for collaboration with physicians/researchers. Embedded statisticians encounter the same challenges of isolated statisticians regarding professional support and networking, mentorship and clear role expectations. While for all collaborative statisticians, it is important to effectively communicate value to both collaborators and supervisors, this may be especially problematic for embedded statisticians in clinical departments where their supervisors may not have backgrounds in research or statistics. Previous papers have reported valuable metrics for statisticians, particularly those associated with Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Research Design Cores. There is a knowledge gap regarding metrics tailored to meet the needs of the embedded statistician and clinical supervisors. This paper is a first step towards addressing this important need.

In this paper, we explore (1) the critical role of collaborative statisticians and the benefits and challenges of the embedded statistician model, (2) the need for additional metrics specific to embedded statisticians which measure value and (3) how to design a value report. We offer a framework for evaluation of the contributions of the embedded statistician with the following domains: (1) collaboration, (2) research output/productivity, (3) mentoring and (4) education. Metrics that are particularly specific to embedded statisticians and that are not routinely captured include time from project initiation to completion/outcome, time from initial statistical consultation to statistical outcome completion and summary of level of contribution for manuscripts and presentations in addition to author order. We conclude with thoughts on future directions for development of metrics and reporting systems for statisticians embedded in clinical departments.
Slow Freeze‐Thaw Cycles Enhanced Hybridization of Kilobase DNA with Long Complementary Sticky Ends
Authors: Noda Natsumi , Nomura Kohei , Takahashi Naho , Hashiya Fumitaka , Abe Hiroshi , Matsuura Tomoaki
Published: May 2024

The creation of large information molecules may have played an essential role in the origins of life. In this study, we conducted slow freeze‐thaw (F/T) experiments to test the possibility of enhanced hybridization between the complementary sticky ends attached to kilobase‐sized DNA fragments at sub‐nanomolar concentrations. DNA fragments of 2‐ and 3‐kilobase pairs (kbp) with 50‐base complementary sticky ends that can form 5 kbp‐sized hybridization products were mixed. While simple incubation provided little hybridization product, significantly effective hybridization was observed after freezing and thawing at a controlled time rate (<0.3 K min−1), even with small DNA concentrations (<1 nM). Furthermore, slow thawing had a more effect on hybridization than slow freezing. The reaction efficiency was reduced by rapid thawing instead of slow thawing, suggesting that the eutectic phase concentration played an important role in hybridization. A slow F/T cycle was effective even for the hybridization reaction between two 10 kbp DNA fragments, which yielded a 20 kbp product at sub‐nanomolar concentrations. Repeating the slow F/T cycle significantly improved the reaction efficiency. The possible role of the F/T cycles in early Earth environments is discussed here.
Leading with well‐being: Introducing a model for well‐being informed leadership
Authors: Bhatt Ravi H. , Burns Joshua R.
Published: May 2024

Higher education brings a catalog of peaks and valleys for students, staff, and faculty. These are heightened by global crises, challenging legislation, and exclusionary practices. These kinds of adversities influence how we show up in higher education spaces and impact both our leadership and well‐being. As leadership reciprocally affects, and is affected by, one's well‐being, the responsibility to cultivate both within higher education continuously increases. To consistently support and uplift our students and understand the intricate challenges higher education continues to face, we introduce the well‐being & leadership transformation (WBLT) model. Informed by leadership and well‐being frameworks, the WBLT model integrates leadership and well‐being in an intentional and holistic way. This piece establishes the elements of the model and demonstrates the WBLT model in action through various examples.
Building a foundation for socially just peer leaders
Authors: Dement Lizzie
Published: May 2024

Peer leaders have shown a significant impact in the support they offer their peers. Due to this, many institutions have increased the initiatives that peer leader are utilized in to strengthen student experience and development. However, even though social justice has grown as a priority in higher education, many peer leaders do not experience any type of social justice training throughout their development. In this qualitative study, peer leaders of all types were interviewed to explore how they currently serve as socially just leaders and what support they are looking for from their institution to help them feel prepared as socially just leaders. This research is explored through the culturally relevant leadership learning model as we look at the support that peer leaders offer their institution, the impact peer leaders can have as socially just leaders, and the support that can be provided by institutions for socially just peer leader development.
Guided by a “Gentle Luminary”: The role of others in women's leadership efficacy development
Authors: Devies Brittany
Published: May 2024

This article presents a narrative inquiry study on the role of others in college women's leadership efficacy development. It begins by presenting the significance of the study and existing literature on college women's leadership development, including scholarship around the role of others in leadership development. The methodology is presented, followed by an in‐depth exploration of the findings around the role of specific family members, peers, and teachers in college women's leadership efficacy development. The article concludes with implications for practice.
South African post‐apartheid context: Self‐reflection of student leaders’ role identity in a multicultural context
Authors: October Heidi , de Jongh Derick
Published: May 2024

Since South Africa's first democratic election in 1994, the student leadership profile has changed dramatically at historically white universities (HWUs). Given the postapartheid South African context where this study was conducted, and how participants navigate multiple role identities within a multicultural setting, the article elucidates student leaders’ self‐reflection on their role identity and draws on identity theory from the discipline of social psychology as its theoretical framework, while referencing the roles model from leadership studies.
How teaching about peace and conflict in Northern Ireland reformulated our leadership teaching and learning philosophy
Authors: Teig Trisha , Walsh Joe
Published: May 2024

In this reflective article, we offer innovative approaches to creating opportunities for leadership learning through questioning the intentions versus impacts of leading short‐term study abroad courses. We consider the critical relevance of approaching a course like this from a learning disposition—recognizing our roles as learners, as well as facilitators of learning. We note the impacts of hegemony and identity, the effort and skills of dialoguing across difference, the complexities of constructive ambiguity, and the necessity to be adaptable as we navigate liminal spaces, concepts, and efforts for peace leadership. In the end, although this was a brief, 10‐day experience, we came to realize our entire outlook on facilitating leadership learning shifted to recognize and grapple with these complexities.
Narain CFTs from quantum codes and their $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ gauging
Authors: Kawabata Kohki , Nishioka Tatsuma , Okuda Takuya
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We investigate the gauging of a $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ symmetry in Narain conformal field theories (CFTs) constructed from qudit stabilizer codes. Considering both orbifold and fermionization, we establish a connection between $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ gauging procedures and modifications of the momentum lattice by vectors characterizing the $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ symmetry. We also provide three-dimensional interpretations of $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ gaugings through abelian Chern-Simons theories, which act as symmetry topological field theories.
Negative single-trace $$ T\overline{T} $$ holography holography versus de Sitter
Authors: Giveon Amit
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In single-trace $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

holography, for the negative sign of the deformation, the geometries dual to high energy states consist of a singular UV wall that separates black strings in the IR from an asymptotically linear dilaton spacetime. In the hologram, the black strings amount to states in a symmetric product of $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

deformed CFT2, whose energy and momentum are split equally among the different blocks. The properties of this holographic duality have intriguing similarities with the proposed principles of de Sitter holography. In this note, the analogy between the two is presented. In particular, as the horizon location approaches the UV wall, one obtains a state of maximum finite entropy and infinite temperature. On the other hand, the bulk temperature of the geometry obtained in the limit is small. These properties are identical to those proposed in empty de Sitter holography.