bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic and Health Care Resource Use Burden of Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Khanna Dinesh , Furst Daniel E. , Li Justin W. , Meng Qian , Yuan Yuan , Lesperance Tamara , Peoples Kenyatta , Ali Farah , LaMoreaux Brian , Taylor Stephanie D.
Published: October 2023

Objective

To describe the health care resource use (HCRU) and costs of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) prior to and after diagnosis.

Methods

This retrospective study used a claims data set (Merative MarketScan; 2015‐2019). Eligible patients with SSc were identified by diagnosis codes and required at least 24 months of enrollment without an SSc diagnosis before their first SSc claim and at least 12 months of enrollment thereafter. Total HCRU and costs were reported for three intervals: 2 years and 1 year before and 1 year after index diagnosis. A general population cohort without SSc was matched 1:1 to the SSC cohort on age and sex for comparison.

Results

Eligibility criteria identified 902 patients with SSc (mean age: 54 years old; 85% female). Mean per‐member per year costs increased each year from $22,383 to $29,708 to $47,095, 2 years before, 1 year before, and 1 year after index diagnosis versus $10,232 to $9656 to $9714 in the general population cohort. Outpatient settings represented the largest proportion of cost 1 year after SSc diagnosis ($16,392), followed by prescription drugs ($10,692), physician office ($10,523), and inpatient ($9448) settings.

Conclusion

Patients with SSC accrued greater costs and required more services than a general population cohort. These elevated expenditures and HCRU were observed at least 2 years before an SSc diagnosis and increased over time, reflecting both the progressive, multisystem nature of SSc and potential challenges in diagnosis. These findings suggest that SSc poses a substantial burden on the US health care system and highlights the need for early diagnosis and effective therapies.
Rational Design of 3D‐Printed Metastructure‐Based Pressure Sensors
Authors: Zhao Huan , Huddy Julia E. , Scheideler William J. , Li Yan
Published: October 2023

Metastructure‐based pressure sensors (MBPS) offer higher sensitivity, broader sensing range, greater design flexibility, and superior performance tunability compared with traditional pressure sensors. Currently, there exists a gap between metastructure architecture design and prediction of sensing performance. To this end, a new design‐to‐manufacturing paradigm is presented. A coupled mechanical‐electrical finite element model is developed to predict sensing performance of systematically designed MBPS. Rapid prototyping by additive manufacturing is achieved via micro‐digital light processing and atomic layer deposition for forming nanoscale conductive coatings. Results indicate that a large sensing range requires high metastructure stiffness, achieved by increasing relative density. However, high sensitivity and reversible sensing both rely on elastic coating deformation—enforcing a balance between these properties. The trade‐off between sensing range and sensitivity is investigated for structures with different Poisson's ratios and fillet ratios. Metastructure architecture design can lead to substantial expansion of the sensing range, enabling pressure detection ranging from 0 to 15 MPa (6.23% strain). An impressive sensitivity variance of 6.8 times has been observed between the highest and lowest MBPS samples. Finally, it is demonstrated how the design framework allows deep electromechanical integration of 3D‐printed sensors with additively manufactured components, such as a truss bridge.
Functionalized Alkylidenecyclobutanes from a Cyclopent‐2‐enone Substrate via a Tandem Photochemical Transformation and an Allylic Substitution Protocol
Authors: Yu Xiaodan , Boddaert Thomas , Aitken David J.
Published: October 2023

A four‐step metal‐free procedure is described for the transformation of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐methylcyclopent‐2‐enone derivatives into highly functionalized E‐alkylidenecyclobutanes featuring oxygenated tetrasubstituted centers. The key intermediate is a (cyclobutenyl)propane‐1,3‐diol diester, easily accessed via a tandem photochemical reaction, which undergoes an original Brønsted acid‐catalyzed allylic substitution reaction with alcohols to give the title products with ester‐protected primary alcohol side chains.
Brief report: Physical activity assessment and counseling in adults with Down syndrome
Authors: Harisinghani Ayesha , Torres Amy , Oreskovic Nicolas M.
Published: October 2023

Adults with Down syndrome are at an increased risk for developing certain medical conditions, which can be further exacerbated by lower levels of physical activity. Physician counseling can provide a supportive environment to encourage modes of physical activity accessible to patients and caregivers. While some adults with Down syndrome have access to a Down syndrome specialty clinic, most are followed only by a primary care physician. This report includes adult patients with Down syndrome followed at a Down syndrome specialty clinic in Boston and compares physical activity assessment and counseling rates by Down syndrome specialists and primary care physicians. Patients were more likely to have physical activity assessment and counseling performed by a Down syndrome specialist than by a primary care physician. A better understanding of the barriers primary care physicians caring for adults with Down syndrome experience related to physical activity counseling could help improve important health habit counseling in this high‐risk population.
Ultrafast Xanthate‐Mediated Photoiniferter Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly (PISA)
Authors: Bowman Jared I. , Eades Cabell B. , Vratsanos Maria A. , Gianneschi Nathan C. , Sumerlin Brent S.
Published: October 2023

Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) is a powerful technique for preparing block copolymer nanostructures. Recently, efforts have been focused on applying photochemistry to promote PISA due to the mild reaction conditions, low cost, and spatiotemporal control that light confers. Despite these advantages, chain‐end degradation and long reaction times can mar the efficacy of this process. Herein, we demonstrate the use of ultrafast photoiniferter PISA to produce polymeric nanostructures. By exploiting the rapid photolysis of xanthates, near‐quantitative monomer conversion can be achieved within five minutes to prepare micelles, worms, and vesicles at various core‐chain lengths, concentrations, or molar compositions.
From Biomimicking to Bioinspired Design of Electrocatalysts for CO2 Reduction to C1 Products
Authors: Trogadas Panagiotis , Xu Linlin , Coppens Marc‐Olivier
Published: October 2023

The electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR) is a promising approach to maintain a carbon cycle balance and produce value‐added chemicals. However, CO2RR technology is far from mature, since the conventional CO2RR electrocatalysts suffer from low activity (leading to currents <10 mA cm−2 in an H‐cell), stability (<120 h), and selectivity. Hence, they cannot meet the requirements for commercial applications (>200 mA cm−2, >8000 h, >90 % selectivity). Significant improvements are possible by taking inspiration from nature, considering biological organisms that efficiently catalyze the CO2 to various products. In this minireview, we present recent examples of enzyme‐inspired and enzyme‐mimicking CO2RR electrocatalysts enabling the production of C1 products with high faradaic efficiency (FE). At present, these designs do not typically follow a methodical approach, but rather focus on isolated features of biological systems. To achieve disruptive change, we advocate a systematic design methodology that leverages fundamental mechanisms associated with desired properties in nature and adapts them to the context of engineering applications.
Infinite Twisted Polycatenanes
Authors: Liu Jiali , Wu Mengqi , Wu Lin , Liang Yimin , Tang Zheng‐Bin , Jiang Liang , Bian Lifang , Liang Kejiang , Zheng Xiaorui , Liu Zhichang
Published: October 2023

Poly[n]catenanes have exceptional mechanical bonding properties that give them tremendous potential for use in the development of molecular machines and soft materials. Synthesizing these compounds has, however, proven to be a formidable challenge. Herein, we describe a concise method for the construction of twisted polycatenanes. Our approach involves using preorganized double helicates as templates, linked crosswise in a linear fashion by either silver ions or triple bonds. By using this approach, we successfully synthesized twisted polycatenanes with both coordination and covalent bonding employing Ag(I) ions and ethynylene units, respectively, as the linkages and leveraging the same Ag(I)‐templated double helicate in both cases. Synthesis with Ag(I) ions formed a single‐crystalline one‐dimensional (1D) coordination poly[n]catenane, and synthesis using ethynylene units generated 1D fibers which self‐assembled with solvents to form a gel. Our results confirm the potential of multi‐stranded metallohelicates for creating sophisticated mechanically interlocked molecules and polymers, which could pave the way for exploration in the realms of molecular nanotopology and materials design.
Effect of DMA characteristics on risk and asset analysis of the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority pipe network
Authors: Nawik Manatsawee , Pilailar Sitang , Chittaladakorn Suwatana
Published: October 2023

This study examines the District Metering Area (DMA) characteristics in the pipe networks of Metropolitan Waterworks Authority (MWA), with a specific focus on risk and asset analysis, including water loss rate, water usage, and pipe density. The objective is to classify the DMA types based on these characteristics and to determine the influence of area characteristics on water distribution infrastructure. This is achieved by employing risk assessment and asset valuation techniques to identify pipes that require replacement. Initially, the Area Characteristic Index (ACI) for all 64 DMAs within the Ladprao service office branch was evaluated using a fuzzy inference system. Subsequently, six selected DMAs from three distinct area types were analyzed by the fuzzy logic model to figure out the Risk Index (RI) values. Concurrently, the Infrastructure Value Index (IVI) contributed to the asset valuation. These indices pinpointed both the high‐risk pipe routes and the poor‐condition infrastructure. Moreover, the Modified Risk‐Value Index (MRVI) was adopted to prioritize these pipe routes within a constrained budget. The main conclusion drawn is that while DMA characteristics do not directly influence the identification of deteriorated pipes through risk assessment and asset analysis methods, the characteristic of a high water loss rate does impact the number of pipe routes identified by the RI.
Daytime dysfunction may be associated with postoperative delirium in patients undergoing total hip/knee replacement: The PNDABLE study
Authors: Lin Xu , Pan Ming‐Jing , Wu Xiao‐Yue , Liu Si‐Yu , Wang Fei , Tang Xin‐Hui , Wang Jia‐Han , Wang Bin , Bi Yan‐Lin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a usual complication after total hip/knee replacement, which may be affected by sleep characteristics. However, up to now, preoperative sleep characteristics have not been evaluated as risk factors of POD. The relationship between self‐reported sleep characteristics and POD in patients has been investigated in this study.

Patients and Methods

We recruited 495 cognitively intact individuals in the final analysis from the Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorder and Biomarker Lifestyle study. Sleep characteristics were tested by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Mini‐mental state examination was applied to assess preoperative mental status of patients. Postoperatively, we used confusion assessment method and memorial delirium assessment scale to evaluate the incidence of POD and POD severity, respectively. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of T‐tau, P‐tau, Aβ40, and Aβ42 were detected by enzyme‐linked immune‐sorbent assay before the operation. Logistic regression, multiple linear regression, and mediation effects were performed to analyze the relationship between self‐reported sleep characteristics and POD.

Results

POD was detected in 11.31% (56/495) of the patients, with logistic regression analysis showing that daytime dysfunction, P‐tau, and T‐tau were risk factors of POD, and Aβ42 was a protective factor of POD. Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that daytime dysfunction was positively correlated with P‐tau in patients with POD. Meanwhile, compared to the patients with no postoperative delirium, the CSF levels of P‐ and T‐tau were higher in patients with POD. Furthermore, mediation analysis showed that it was probable that daytime dysfunction mediated POD through P‐tau (proportion: 12.90%) partially.

Conclusion

Daytime dysfunction is a risk factor of POD preoperatively. To sum up, CSF P‐tau protein might partially mediate the influence of daytime dysfunction on POD.

Clinical trial registration

This study was registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000033439).
Interactions of Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase‐expressing LAMP3+ dendritic cells with CD4+ regulatory T cells and CD8+ exhausted T cells: synergistically remodeling of the immunosuppressive microenvironment in cervical cancer and therapeutic implications
Authors: Qu Xinyu , Wang Yumeng , Jiang Qian , Ren Tingting , Guo Chenyan , Hua Keqin , Qiu Junjun
Published: October 2023

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. Although immunotherapy has been applied in clinical practice, its therapeutic efficacy remains far from satisfactory, necessitating further investigation of the mechanism of CC immune remodeling and exploration of novel treatment targets. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of CC immune remodeling and explore potential therapeutic targets.

Methods

We conducted single‐cell RNA sequencing on a total of 17 clinical specimens, including normal cervical tissues, high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, and CC tissues. To validate our findings, we conducted multicolor immunohistochemical staining of CC tissues and constructed a subcutaneous tumorigenesis model in C57BL/6 mice using murine CC cell lines (TC1) to evaluate the effectiveness of combination therapy involving indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) inhibition and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). We used the unpaired two‐tailed Student's t‐test, Mann‐Whitney test, or Kruskal‐Wallis test to compare continuous data between two groups and one‐way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test to compare data between multiple groups.

Results

Malignant cervical epithelial cells did not manifest noticeable signs of tumor escape, whereas lysosomal‐associated membrane protein 3‐positive (LAMP3+) dendritic cells (DCs) in a mature state with immunoregulatory roles were found to express IDO1 and affect tryptophan metabolism. These cells interacted with both tumor‐reactive exhausted CD8+ T cells and CD4+ regulatory T cells, synergistically forming a vicious immunosuppressive cycle and mediating CC immune escape. Further validation through multicolor immunohistochemical staining showed co‐localization of neoantigen‐reactive T cells (CD3+, CD4+/CD8+, and PD‐1+) and LAMP3+ DCs (CD80+ and PD‐L1+). Additionally, a combination of the IDO1 inhibitor with an ICB agent significantly reduced tumor volume in the mouse model of CC compared with an ICB agent alone.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that a combination treatment consisting of targeting IDO1 and ICB agent could improve the therapeutic efficacy of current CC immunotherapies. Additionally, our results provided crucial insights for designing drugs and conducting future clinical trials for CC.
Pulmonary artery aneurysm in a young female with Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Yingchoncharoen Pitchaporn , Eshak Nouran , Thongpiya Jerapas , Benjanuwattra Juthipong , Abdelnabi Mahmoud
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

In suspected cases of systemic vasculitis, imaging studies should include the pulmonary artery. This is a rare case of Takayasu arteritis with a large pulmonary aneurysm. Medical management is the first line and vascular intervention if fails prior.

Takayasu arteritis (TA) should be suspected in young women presented with hypertension, carotidynia, and claudications. Pulmonary artery involvement is frequent, occurring in 20%–50% of patients with TA. However, this case highlights the rare presentation of TA with a large pulmonary aneurysm and minimal aortic involvement. Medical management including immunosuppressive agents and biological therapies remains an important role, with vascular intervention remains as an option if medical therapy failed.
Multidisciplinary strategies for managing acute watery diarrhea in children with congenital anorectal malformation and colostomy: A case study
Authors: Amin Mohammad Ashraful , Manna Ridwana Maher , Nahin Sabrina , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: October 2023

Key clinical message

Congenital anorectal malformation (ARM) is a diverse group of anomalies affecting the development of the anal and rectal regions, with an estimated incidence of one in every 5000 live births. The colostomy is commonly performed as part of the staged management of children with ARM to prevent complications. However, the presence of acute watery diarrhea in children with ARM and colostomy poses significant management challenges due to the altered anatomy and physiology affecting stool regulation and absorption, exacerbated by various factors including infections, dietary issues, medication side effects, and underlying gastrointestinal complications.This case study explores the complexities involved in managing acute watery diarrhea in children with congenital ARM and colostomy. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to examine the existing evidence on the subject. The study highlights the multidisciplinary approach required, involving pediatricians, surgeons, and other specialists, to provide comprehensive care and support for these children. Effective management of acute watery diarrhea in children with congenital ARM and colostomy necessitates collaboration between pediatricians and surgeons. Pediatricians play a crucial role in assessing hydration status, monitoring electrolyte balance, and providing appropriate fluid and nutritional management. Surgeons address the surgical aspects of care and coordinate interventions with the management of acute diarrhea. The study underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to deliver comprehensive care, optimize outcomes, and improve the quality of life for affected children. The management of acute watery diarrhea in children with congenital ARM and colostomy presents significant challenges due to the complex interplay of anatomical, physiological, and clinical factors. A multidisciplinary approach involving pediatricians, surgeons, and other specialists is vital for providing comprehensive care and support. This case study emphasizes the need for further research, guidelines, and collaborative efforts to enhance the management strategies for this vulnerable population.
A combined experimental and theoretical study of a novel corrosion inhibitor derived from thiophen
Authors: Resen Ali M. , Jasim Ayad N. , Qasim Heba S. , Hanoon Mahdi M. , Al‐Kaabi Mohammed H. H. , Al‐Amiery Ahmed A. , Al‐Azzawi Waleed K.
Published: October 2023

In this study, we synthesized a novel corrosion inhibitor derived from thiophene and conducted a comprehensive evaluation of its inhibitory properties through both experimental and theoretical approaches. Our investigation encompassed experimental assessments employing Mass loss tests and electrochemical techniques. Additionally, we performed computational studies to delve into the electronic structure and bonding characteristics of the inhibitor, aiming to elucidate its inhibitory mechanism. Our findings revealed that the synthesized inhibitor displayed remarkable inhibitory efficiency, demonstrating its effectiveness in preventing the corrosion of mild steel. Specifically, the thiophene derivative exhibited an impressive inhibitory efficiency of 92.8%, underscoring its potential as a robust corrosion inhibitor for mild steel. Furthermore, this study delved into optimizing the conditions for employing the thiophene derivative as a corrosion inhibitor. Our investigation revealed that the most effective inhibition was achieved at a concentration of 0.5 mM and a temperature of 303 K. To elucidate the interaction between the inhibitor and the mild steel surface, we applied the Langmuir adsorption isotherm concept, shedding light on both the physical and chemical adsorption processes of the thiophene derivative on the metal's surface. Our investigations demonstrated that the addition of the inhibitor significantly reduced the corrosion rate of the metal. Our computational results further reinforced these experimental findings, indicating that the inhibitor formed stable adsorption complexes on the metal surface. This dual confirmation from experimental and computational approaches strengthens the confidence in the inhibitor's efficacy in mitigating corrosion.
Pseudocapacitance‐Dominated MnNb2O6‐C Nanofiber Anode for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cao Kangzhe , Wang Sitian , Ma Jiahui , Xing Xiaobing , Liu Xiaogang , Jiang Yong , Fan Yang , Liu Huiqiao
Published: October 2023

MnNb2O6 anode has attracted much attention owing to its unique properties for holding Li ions. Unluckily, its application as a Li‐ion battery anode is restricted by low capacity because of the inferior electronic conductivity and limited electron transfer. Previous studies suggest that structure and component optimization could improve its reversible capacity. This improvement is always companied by capacity increments, however, the reasons have rarely been identified. Herein, MnNb2O6‐C nanofibers (NFs) with MnNb2O6 nanoparticles (~15 nm) confined in carbon NFs, and the counterpart MnNb2O6 NFs consisting of larger nanoparticles (40–100 nm) are prepared by electrospinning for clarifying this phenomenon. The electrochemical evaluations indicate that the capacity achieved by the MnNb2O6 NF electrode presents an activation process and a degradation in subsequence. Meanwhile, the MnNb2O6‐C NF electrode delivers high reversible capacity and ultra‐stable cycling performance. Further analysis based on electrochemical behaviors and microstructure changes reveals that the partial structure rearrangement should be in charge of the capacity increment, mainly including pseudocapacitance increment. This work suggests that diminishing the dimensions of MnNb2O6 nanoparticles and further confining them in a matrix could increase the pseudocapacitance‐dominated capacity, providing a novel way to improve the reversible capacity of MnNb2O6 and other intercalation reaction anodes.
Framing, classification, and conceptual linkages: What can interdisciplinary practice in small secondary schools contribute to the curriculum conversation?
Authors: Termaat Annie
Published: October 2023

This article reports on the design of interdisciplinary units in five International Baccalaureate schools in Norway and Denmark, each with fewer than 100 students in their Middle Years Programme. The mixed methods study describes subject combinations and time frames of 37 enacted units and 111 hypothetical interdisciplinary units, and the qualitative perspectives of nine teachers, representative of the curriculum frameworks' eight subject groups, on the contribution of these school‐based units to student learning. In the special context of schools with logistically simple staffing structures, interdisciplinary units were consistently conceived and enacted as substantial units, typically implemented over 8 weeks. Subjects were usually paired using a common Key Concept and differentiated by Related Concepts. Although framing and classification were considerations in interdisciplinary planning, the quantitative data found nearly every pairing of the subject groups was feasible. Interdisciplinary units were consistently valued by teachers for helping students connect disciplinary knowledge and developing metacognitive skills that supported their future learning, and for enriching teachers' own pedagogical practice. As a pragmatic, sustainable approach that resolves the tensions posed by assessment of disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives, the strategies reported in this study suggest a ‘middle way’ for countering the disciplinary fragmentation associated with junior secondary education.
Process optimization of IC engine testing: SiO2 nanoparticle dosed Azolla methyl ester
Authors: Kannan T. R. , Roji S. Sheeju Selva
Published: October 2023

Nanoparticles are now widely used in biodiesel‐diesel combinations for improving the engine performance and reduction of emissions. This present study investigates the Bio‐silica (Silicon‐dioxide, SiO2). The statistical and experimental study demonstrates the utilization of various levels of SiO2 in Azolla Biodiesel blend (ABD) with appropriate engine parameters such as fuel injection pressure, fuel injection timing and compression ratio for minimal emissions and optimal performance employing response surface approach. In a mixture of Azolla biodiesel and diesel, SiO2 nanoparticles were utilized at quantities of 25, 50, and 75 ppm. To determine the existence of Silicon‐dioxide, the produced nanoparticles were subjected to tests such as XRD, SEM, TEM, and EDS. The Response Surface optimizer was used with DOE L29 array and the engine predictors with a desirability value of 0.6180, were18.5°bTDC (IT), 238 Bar (IP), 17.1237 (CR), and 45.885 ppm SiO2 nanoparticle. The results were determined to be fit statistically and with high assurance levels. Thus, the addition of SiO2 nanoadditives along with aquatic fern Azolla oil methyl ester reduced the emission without affecting the engine performance.
Wireless monitoring of cell cultures based on light scattering: A novel optical scheme and portable prototype
Authors: Litunenko Daria N. , Moskalensky Alexander E.
Published: October 2023

Cell cultures are widely used in scientific research, biomedicine, and industry. When culturing, it is important to maintain certain conditions, including the concentration of cells. Monitoring of the culture growth and cell counting is an urgent task for the optimization of technological processes. Most existing methods require sampling from a culture flask. This procedure is time‐consuming and associated with the risks of contamination. We present a device able to monitor the growth of cells number in a suspension noninvasively. The device uses a laser beam that pass through the culture flask and measures the intensity of scattered light as a function of coordinate along the beam. This optical scheme allows one to obtain accurate results for both high‐ and low‐scattering samples. We constructed the wireless portable prototype for monitoring of cell culture growth directly in the incubator and demonstrated the applicability of the device for Jurkat cells and Escherichia coli bacteria.
On the order of antipodal covers
Authors: Wang Jianfeng , Zhang Wenqian , Wang Yiqiao , Stanić Zoran
Published: October 2023

A noncomplete graph of diameter is called an antipodal ‐cover if its vertex set can be partitioned into the subsets (also called fibres) of vertices each, in such a way that two vertices of are at distance if and only if they belong to the same fibre. We say that is symmetric if for every , there exist such that , where . In this paper, we prove that, for , an antipodal ‐cover which is not a cycle, has at least vertices provided , and at least vertices provided it is symmetric. Our results extend those of Göbel and Veldman.
Raman spectroscopy as a tool for monitoring osteoporosis therapy in postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Beattie J. Renwick , Towler Mark R.
Published: October 2023

Bisphosphonate‐based pharmacological therapy of osteoporosis reduces risk of fracture, but modulation of bone mineral density does not solely explain this. Additional bone quality aspects affecting fragility need to be better understood, alongside methods to monitor them. Systemic factors that influence bone collagen remodelling also remodel keratin in parallel processes. In this study, human fingernail clippings from subjects with and without bone active pharmaceutical intervention are compared. A discriminant model was able to distinguish between the nails from patients that were treatment‐naive and treated with an area under the curve of 71% in the test set. A time series of changes relative to baseline revealed that after 1 year, the scores of the treated group (95 confidence interval 37% to 377% change) differed from both the 12 week measurements (−198% to 34%) and scores from untreated subjects (−92% to −674%). Analysis of the spectral differences and model coefficients revealed features that were inverse to those observed in three previous osteoporosis models, indicating that treatment was reverting damaged protein structure. This study provides preliminary evidence that bone active medication systemically influences keratin structure in humans and provides some discussion on the underlying mechanism. The study demonstrates that bisphosphonates have a direct influence on protein structure, warranting further investigation of these effects.
Well‐posedness and exponential stability for a nonlinear wave equation with acoustic boundary conditions
Authors: Bautista George J. , Límaco Juan , Potenciano‐Machado Leyter
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we prove the well‐posedness of a nonlinear wave equation coupled with boundary conditions of Dirichlet and acoustic type imposed on disjoints open boundary subsets. The proposed nonlinear equation models small vertical vibrations of an elastic medium with weak internal damping and a general nonlinear term. We also prove the exponential decay of the energy associated with the problem. Our results extend the ones obtained in previous results to allow weak internal dampings and removing the dimensional restriction
. The method we use is based on a finite‐dimensional approach by combining the Faedo‐Galerkin method with suitable energy estimates and multiplier techniques.
Job strain, occupation, and bladder health among women
Authors: Brady Sonya S. , Arguedas Andrés , Huling Jared D. , Hellemann Gerhard , Lewis Cora E. , Fok Cynthia S. , Van Den Eeden Stephen K. , Markland Alayne D.
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common among employed women. An underexplored topic is whether characteristics of women's occupations may influence LUTS. The present study examined whether job strain and its individual components (psychological demands, decision latitude) were associated with greater LUTS and their impact and whether, compared to managerial and professional occupations, occupations characterized by manual labor, sales, service, nursing, and teaching were associated with greater LUTS and their impact.

Methods

Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults cohort study data were analyzed. Job strain and occupation were assessed in 1987–88 and 1995–96. In 2012–13, LUTS and their impact were assessed. LUTS/impact category (a composite variable ranging from bladder health to mild, moderate, and severe LUTS/impact) was regressed on job strain and occupation in separate analyses, adjusting for age, race, parity, education, and financial hardship (n = 1006).

Results

Job strain and its individual components were not associated with LUTS/impact. In comparison to managerial and professional occupations, service occupations in 1987–88 and 1995–96 were both associated with greater odds of LUTS/impact in proportional odds logistic regression analyses. Employment as a nurse, health assistant, or health aide in 1995‐96 was associated with greater odds of any LUTS/impact versus bladder health. Support positions in 1987–88 and sales positions in 1995–96 were associated with greater odds of moderate or severe LUTS/impact versus bladder health or mild LUTS/impact.

Conclusions

Future research should examine characteristics of workplaces that may promote or constrain bladder health (e.g., time and autonomy to void when desired, infrastructure to void).
Understanding nonprofit leader engagement and turnover: A story of job demands and resources
Authors: Thomas Benjamin J.
Published: October 2023

Nonprofit groups deeply rely on their executives to fulfill a demanding, often isolated, role leading the group in carrying out its mission. Although much research has focused on the effects of these leaders and great investment has been made in developing a talent pool to fill nonprofit leadership needs, almost no research has explored the experiences of nonprofit executives themselves. For nonprofit boards and nonprofit leadership development programs, this is a serious deficit in understanding the factors that drive engagement or withdrawal from the job. This paper reports the results of a two‐phase mixed methods research study that applied the Job‐Demands Resources (JD‐R) Model to understanding the energizing and depleting elements of professional life as a nonprofit executive. Phase 1 featured in‐depth, firsthand interviews with nonprofit executives from a variety of groups. Phase 2 progressed the research with a quantitative analysis of survey responses from more than 100 active nonprofit leaders. The results of both studies reveal important insights to supportively motivate and retain these critical executives: (1) leaders fulfill very unique jobs, although the JD‐R model can provide an organizing framework for understanding their depleting demands and energizing resources; (2). Boards of Directors can act as a demand or a resource, and executives' (dis)satisfaction with their Boards importantly predicts turnover and burnout; (3) executives need more social support in doing a sometimes lonely job. Limitations and future directions for research are also discussed.
Comparison of modelling approaches for the bending behaviour of fibre‐reinforced thermoplastics in finite element forming analyses
Authors: Kabala Philipp , Middelhoff Jan , Voigt Dominik , Dröder Klaus , Hürkamp André
Published: October 2023

In the forming of thermoplastic composite laminates, the temperature‐dependent bending behaviour plays a significant role, in addition to in‐plane tension, in‐plane shear and ply/ply as well as tool/ply friction. The bending properties are decoupled from the in‐plane properties. Classical beam theories are therefore not valid for laminates, as they significantly overestimate the bending stiffness, especially in the molten state. Various approaches to modelling the bending behaviour have been presented in the literature, which can be used to model the out‐of‐plane properties for simulation. With these approaches, a parameter optimisation based on experimental deflection curves is performed through cantilever beam tests. A comparative analysis is then carried out to evaluate the suitability of a temperature and direction dependent modelling of the bending behaviour, the influence of the in‐plane properties and the computation time.
Meflin is a marker of pancreatic stellate cells involved in fibrosis and epithelial regeneration in the pancreas
Authors: Ando Ryota , Shiraki Yukihiro , Miyai Yuki , Shimizu Hiroki , Furuhashi Kazuhiro , Minatoguchi Shun , Kato Katsuhiro , Kato Akira , Iida Tadashi , Mizutani Yasuyuki , Ito Kisuke , Asai Naoya , Mii Shinji , Esaki Nobutoshi , Takahashi Masahide , Enomoto Atsushi
Published: October 2023

Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are stromal cells in the pancreas that play an important role in pancreatic pathology. In chronic pancreatitis (CP) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), PSCs are known to get activated to form myofibroblasts or cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that promote stromal fibroinflammatory reactions. However, previous studies on PSCs were mainly based on the findings obtained using ex vivo expanded PSCs, with few studies that addressed the significance of in situ tissue‐resident PSCs using animal models. Their contributions to fibrotic reactions in CP and PDAC are also lesser‐known. These limitations in our understanding of PSC biology have been attributed to the lack of specific molecular markers of PSCs. Herein, we established Meflin (Islr), a glycosylphosphatidylinositol‐anchored membrane protein, as a PSC‐specific marker in both mouse and human by using human pancreatic tissue samples and Meflin reporter mice. Meflin‐positive (Meflin+) cells contain lipid droplets and express the conventional PSC marker Desmin in normal mouse pancreas, with some cells also positive for Gli1, the marker of pancreatic tissue‐resident fibroblasts. Three‐dimensional analysis of the cleared pancreas of Meflin reporter mice showed that Meflin+ PSCs have long and thin cytoplasmic protrusions, and are localised on the abluminal side of vessels in the normal pancreas. Lineage tracing experiments revealed that Meflin+ PSCs constitute one of the origins of fibroblasts and CAFs in CP and PDAC, respectively. In these diseases, Meflin+ PSC‐derived fibroblasts showed a distinctive morphology and distribution from Meflin+ PSCs in the normal pancreas. Furthermore, we showed that the genetic depletion of Meflin+ PSCs accelerated fibrosis and attenuated epithelial regeneration and stromal R‐spondin 3 expression, thereby implying that Meflin+ PSCs and their lineage cells may support tissue recovery and Wnt/R‐spondin signalling after pancreatic injury and PDAC development. Together, these data indicate that Meflin may be a marker specific to tissue‐resident PSCs and useful for studying their biology in both health and disease. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
A Scale of Parent‐to‐Child Emotions (SPCE): Development and validation of a short form
Authors: Hada Ayako , Ohashi Yukiko , Usui Yuriko , Kitamura Toshinori
Published: October 2023

Aim

Parents' emotions towards a child are extremely important. The Scale of Parent‐to‐Child Emotions (SPCE) consists of five basic and four self‐conscious emotion domains for assessment of parental emotional states. Abridgement of the SPCE is needed for research and clinical settings.

Methods

Our previous investigational data for SPCE development were used in this study. The sample of 2336 fathers and 2264 mothers, whose eldest child's age was up to 12 years old, was analyzed. Total information for each pair (form) of items corresponding to a latent trait (θ) was calculated. The form with the greatest amount of total information was selected as the best for each domain. In addition, relative efficiency for each form and correlations of raw sum scores in classical test theory (CTT) for short forms with factor scores in item response theory (IRT) were calculated.

Results

The SPCE was shortened to 18 items by selecting two items each for nine domains. Correlations of raw sum scores in CTT for short forms with factor scores in IRT were correlated strongly and significantly.

Conclusion

This abridged form of the scale, the SPCE‐18, may be applicable in a busy clinical setting or research works to investigate the trajectory of parent‐to‐child emotions across a long span of time.
Pathogenicity analysis and comparative genomics reveal the different infection strategies between the generalist Metarhizium anisopliae and the specialist Metarhizium acridum
Authors: Du Yanru , Li Jun , Chen Shaopeng , Xia Yuxian , Jin Kai
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

The fungal genera Metarhizium contain many important multiple species that are used as biocontrol agents and as model organisms for exploring insect–fungal interactions. Metarhizium spp. exhibit different traits of pathogenicity, suggesting that the pathogenesis can be quite distinctive. However, the underlying differences in their pathogenesis remain poorly understood.

RESULTS

Pathogenicity analysis showed that Metarhizium anisopliae (strain CQMa421) displayed higher virulence against oriental migratory locusts, Locusta migratoria manilensis (Meyen), than the acridid‐specific specie Metarhizium acridum (strain CQMa102). Relative to M. acridum, M. anisopliae possessed a higher conidial hydrophobicity, increased ability to penetrate the host, accelerated growth under hypoxia and enhanced ability for the utilization of different carbon sources. Different distributions of carbohydrate epitopes at cell wall surface of M. anisopliae might also contribute to successful evasion of host immune defenses. Comparative genomics showed that M. anisopliae has 98 more virulence‐related secreted proteins (133) than M. acridum (35), which can be functionally classified as hydrolases, virulence effectors, cell wall degradation and stress tolerance‐related proteins, and helpful to the cuticle penetration and host internal environment adaption. In addition, differences in genomic clusters specifically related to secondary metabolites, including the clusters of Indole‐NRPS hybrid, T1PKS‐NRPS like hybrid, Betalactone, Fungal‐Ripp and NRPS‐Terpene hybrid, may lead to differences in core virulence‐related secondary metabolite genes in M. acridum (18) and M. anisopliae (36).

CONCLUSION

The comparative study provided new insights into the different infection strategies between M. anisopliae and M. acridum, and further facilitate the identification of virulence‐related genes for the improvement of mycoinsecticides. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The role of vitamin D in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Li Mengxi
Published: October 2023

Hypoxia pulmonary hypertension (PH) belongs to the third major category in PH classification. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common cause of hypoxia PH. Low serum vitamin D concentration is considered to be a possible risk factor for chronic lung disease; epidemiological studies have found that vitamin D deficiency increases pulmonary artery pressure. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the role of vitamin D levels in COPD and chronic hypoxic PH. This retrospective study selected three groups of people as research subjects, including: Group N: normal control group (people without any chronic lung disease or PH); Group C: patients with COPD, but without PH; Group C + PH: patients with COPD and PH. Vitamin D levels and pulmonary artery pressure were observed in the three groups. Vitamin D levels of the three groups showed statistical differences in every pairwise comparison; the vitamin D level of Group C (20.27 ng/mL) was lower than Group N (23.48 ng/mL), Group C + PH was the lowest (14.92 ng/mL). The levels of vitamin D in the three groups in this study were generally low. Vitamin D is negatively correlated with pulmonary artery systolic blood pressure. Low vitamin D levels may have a certain relationship with the occurrence and development of COPD. Further reductions in vitamin D levels may influence the development of PH in COPD.
AdS3 orbifolds, BTZ black holes, and holography
Authors: Martinec Emil J.
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Conical defects of the form (AdS3 × $$ {\mathbbm{S}}^3 $$

S
3

)/ℤk have an exact orbifold description in worldsheet string theory, which we derive from their known presentation as gauged Wess-Zumino-Witten models. The configuration of strings and fivebranes sourcing this geometry is well-understood, as is the correspondence to states/operators in the dual CFT2. One can analytically continue the construction to Euclidean AdS3 (i.e. the hyperbolic ball $$ {\mathbb{H}}_3^{+} $$

ℍ
3
+

) and consider the orbifold by any infinite discrete (Kleinian) group generated by a set of elliptic elements γi ∈ SL(2, ℂ), $$ {\gamma}_i^{{\textrm{k}}_i} $$

γ
i

k
i

= 𝟙, i = 1, . . . , K. The resulting geometry consists of multiple conical defects traveling along geodesics in $$ {\mathbb{H}}_3^{+} $$

ℍ
3
+

, and provides a semiclassical bulk description of correlation functions in the dual CFT involving the corresponding defect operators, which is nonperturbatively exact in α′. The Lorentzian continuation of these geometries describes a collection of defects colliding to make a BTZ black hole. We comment on a recent proposal to use such correlators to prepare a basis of black hole microstates, and elaborate on a picture of black hole formation and evaporation in terms of the underlying brane dynamics in the bulk.
Stereoscopic X-ray image and thermo-optical surface guidance for breast cancer radiotherapy in deep inspiration breath-hold
Authors: Buschmann Martin , Kauer-Dorner Daniela , Konrad Stefan , Georg Dietmar , Widder Joachim , Knäusl Barbara
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of a thermo-optical surface imaging (SGRT) system combined with room-based stereoscopic X‑ray image guidance (IGRT) in a dedicated breast deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) irradiation workflow. In this context, benchmarking of portal imaging (EPID) and cone-beam CT (CBCT) against stereoscopic X‑rays was performed.

Methods

SGRT + IGRT data of 30 left-sided DIBH breast patients (1 patient with bilateral cancer) treated in 351 fractions using thermo-optical surface imaging and X-ray IGRT were retrospectively analysed. Patients were prepositioned based on a free-breathing surface reference derived from a CT scan. Once the DIBH was reached using visual feedback, two stereoscopic X‑ray images were acquired and registered to the digitally reconstructed radiographs derived from the DIBH CT. Based on this registration, a couch correction was performed. Positioning and monitoring by surface and X-ray imaging were verified by protocol-based EPID or CBCT imaging at selected fractions and the calculation of residual geometric deviations.

Results

The median X‑ray-derived couch correction vector was 4.9 (interquartile range [IQR] 3.3–7.1) mm long. Verification imaging was performed for 134 fractions (216 RT field verifications) with EPID and for 37 fractions with CBCT, respectively. The median 2D/3D deviation vector length over all verification images was 2.5 (IQR 1.6–3.9) mm/3.4 (IQR 2.2–4.8) mm for EPID/CBCT, both being well within the planning target volume (PTV) margins (7 mm). A moderate correlation (0.49–0.65) was observed between the surface signal and X-ray position in DIBH.

Conclusion

DIBH treatments using thermo-optical SGRT and X-ray IGRT were feasible for breast cancer patients. Stereoscopic X‑ray positioning was successfully verified by standard IGRT techniques.