bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personalizing homelessness prevention: Evidence from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Phillips David C. , Sullivan James X.
Published: November 2023

Through a randomized controlled trial, we test whether providing personalized case management alongside emergency financial assistance more effectively prevents homelessness than financial assistance alone. For a sample of young adults and families with children who are at risk of homelessness, our results indicate that participants assigned to case management and financial assistance are more likely to access other homeless programs and no less likely to be evicted. Downstream outcomes are mostly unchanged, though arrests increase. Using non‐experimental variation across staff, we find that case management is associated with better outcomes when it is more intensive and pays financial assistance quickly.
Synthesis and characterization of polyfuran/polythiophene oligomers: Oligomer–protein interaction studies
Authors: Farooq Aaliyah , Nabi Nuzhat , Alam Javed , Riaz Ufana
Published: November 2023

Water‐soluble polyfuran (PF), polythiophene (PTh), and their co‐oligomers were synthesized and the formation of the oligomers was confirmed by FTIR, UV–visible, and SEM techniques. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum albumin (HSA) were used to study the biophysical interaction of these oligomers with proteins. Molecular docking studies confirmed that the interaction with HSA was higher than that for BSA and was found be via hydrogen bonding and π‐alkyl interaction. The co‐oligomers showed high binding affinity toward HSA as compared to BSA which could be utilized for developing protein sensors.
Balancing anticoagulation and hemostasis in an infant with severe hemophilia A during cardiac transplantation: Review of the literature and development of a surgical protocol
Authors: Regling Katherine , Sehgal Swati , Hollon Wendy , Rayner Patricia , Stricker Lori , Sarnaik Ajit , Sassalos Peter , Al‐Ahmadi Mamdouh , Rajpurkar Madhvi , Chitlur Meera B.
Published: November 2023

Hemophilia A is a disorder resulting in a deficiency of clotting factor VIII that can lead to life‐threatening bleeding. Evidence‐based guidelines for surgical interventions like cardiac surgery are limited. Anticoagulation is necessary for cardiac bypass, thus risk of bleeding in a patient with hemophilia is increased and requires careful attention to maintain hemostasis. We report the first infant with severe hemophilia A and dilated cardiomyopathy who underwent successful cardiac transplantation, and review the literature on previous cardiac transplant cases in congenital hemophilia. To ensure safe and effective management, a multidisciplinary approach was used to develop the surgical protocol for transplant.
Plastic composite of bamboo charcoal stabilized polyethylene glycol with thermal energy storage and temperature regulation for building energy efficiency
Authors: Ji Xianjun , Liu Pengwei , Qiu Chendong , Weng Lu , Hu Jiajun , Wei Renzhong , Zhang Yi , Sun Weisheng , Guo Xi
Published: November 2023

Phase change materials (PCMs) are often used as building materials to reduce the energy consumption. However, conventional PCMs are susceptible to leakage and have a short service life. To solve this problem, thermal energy storage (TES) composites were fabricated by using bamboo charcoal (BC) encapsulating polyethylene glycol (PEG) as the PCM and low density polyethylene (LDPE) as the matrix. The shape and structure of BC and BC‐plastic composites were examined using scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffractometry, and mercury intrusion porosimetry. Differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry (TG), and infrared thermography were used to characterize the manufactured TES composites. Physical and mechanical strength assessments were also conducted. The results demonstrated that: (1) BC possessed a rich void structure with a porosity of 61.4%, which could be used to adsorb PEG and the composites was a combination of PEG, BC, and LDPE with no chemical reaction; (2) thermal tests demonstrated that the composites exhibited favorable temperature regulation properties, featuring a maximum latent heat capacity of 29.1 J/g along with suitable phase change temperatures, yet thermal durability needs to be improved much further, addition of PEG reduced thermal conductivity of the composite from 0.38 to 0.34 W/mK; (3) the addition of PEG was beneficial for the impact strength but had a negative impact on the flexural and tensile properties; and (4) due to their satisfactory thermal performance and acceptable mechanical properties, these TES composites can be effectively utilized as building materials for temperature control purposes.

Highlights

Bamboo charcoal (BC) had a large number of pores that can encapsulate polyethylene glycol (PEG).

PEG/BC performed satisfactory latent heat.

Low density polyethylene was used as the matrix to realize the second encapsulation of phase change material.

Thermal energy storage composites had excellent stability and good heat storage capacity.

PEG incorporation negatively affected flexural and tensile properties.
Impact of silanization on the characterization of Corchorus olitorius particle‐based composites for sustainable applications
Authors: Mahakur Vijay Kumar , Bhowmik Sumit , Patowari Promod Kumar
Published: November 2023

Researchers are actively working on developing a long‐term substitute for harmful manmade fibres. Because of their unique qualities that fit diverse applications, natural fibres/fillers are proposed as sustainable reinforcements. Integrating natural fibres, such as Corchorus olitorius particles, into composites provides an environmentally conscious choice for a variety of purposes. This research aims to investigate the influence of silanization, a surface modification technique, on the various characterizations and characteristics of Corchorus olitorius particle‐based composites. The characterizations included morphological, mechanical and thermal investigations to assess the influence of silanization on the characteristics of the composite. The contact layup process is applied to create composite samples by reinforcing multiple weight proportions of treated particles (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10% and 12.5%) in epoxy resins. The findings demonstrate that silanization elevates the interfacial connectivity between Corchorus olitorius particles and the resins, which produces upgraded mechanical and thermal attributes. The composite containing 5 wt% particles generated the most significant tensile and flexural strength, with gains of about 45% and 31%, respectively, compared to the epoxy composite. Because of the higher interfacial connections of the molecules, the viscoelastic features of the composites indicated that the 7.5 wt% particle‐based composite possesses the greatest storage modulus (2.96 GPa), loss modulus (0.4 GPa) and glass transition temperature (90 °C). This study emphasizes the significance of surface alteration procedures such as silanization for boosting the efficiency and long‐term viability of composites containing Corchorus olitorius particles. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
On the Actual Difference between the Nosé and the Nosé–Hoover Thermostats: A Critical Review of Canonical Temperature Control by Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Massobrio Carlo , Essomba Irene Amiehe , Boero Mauro , Diarra Cheick , Guerboub Mohammed , Ishisone Kana , Lambrecht Achille , Martin Evelyne , Morrot-Woisard Icare , Ori Guido , Tugène Christine , Wansi Wendji Steve Dave
Published: November 2023

This article has to be intended both as a review and as an historical tribute to the ideas developed almost 40 years ago by S. Nosé, establishing the theoretical foundations of the implementation and use of thermostats in molecular dynamics (MDs). The original motivation of this work is enriched by an observation related to the connection between the Nosé seminal expression of temperature control and the extension proposed in 1985 by W. G. Hoover, known as the Nosé–Hoover thermostat. By carefully rederiving the equations of motion in both formalisms, it appears that all features of Nosé–Hoover framework (replacement of the Nosé variables by a single friction coefficient in the equations of motion) are already built in the Nosé approach. Therefore, one is able to work directly within the Nosé formalism with the addition of a single variable only, by greatly extending its general impact and simplicity and somewhat making redundant the Nosé–Hoover extension. Having been implicitly (and somewhat inadvertently) put to good use by a multitude of users over the past 40 years (in the context of classical and first‐principles MDs), this finding does not need any specific application to be assessed.
Modulation Mechanism of Transition Elements Fe and Mn on the Interface Bonding Performance of Bronze/Diamond Composites
Authors: Wang Jingchao , Yu Jianwu , Huang Liang , Luo Hong , Liu Xiaopan , Shang Zhentao
Published: November 2023

The modulation mechanism of iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) in transition‐metal elements on the interface bonding and mechanical properties of bronze (Cu3Sn)‐based/diamond composites is investigated through first‐principles calculations. Transition‐elements‐doping scenarios are investigated employing six‐layer slab models. It is revealed that the doping of Fe or Mn can make the Cu3Sn/diamond interface more stable, which effectively improves the wettability of the Cu3Sn/diamond interface based on the calculation results and analysis of interface energy, differential charge density model, and density of states. However, co‐doping with both Fe and Mn weakens the wettability of the Cu3Sn/diamond interface. Finally, wettability tests and microstructure characterizations demonstrate that the doping of Fe and Mn represents an effective approach to controlling the interface bonding performance of bronze/diamond composites.
Formation control scheme with reinforcement learning strategy for a group of multiple surface vehicles
Authors: Nguyen Khai , Dang Van Trong , Pham Dinh Duong , Dao Phuong Nam
Published: November 2023

This article presents a comprehensive approach to integrate formation tracking control and optimal control for a fleet of multiple surface vehicles (SVs), accounting for both kinematic and dynamic models of each SV agent. The proposed control framework comprises two core components: a high‐level displacement‐based formation controller and a low‐level reinforcement learning (RL)‐based optimal control strategy for individual SV agents. The high‐level formation control law, employing a modified gradient method, is introduced to guide the SVs in achieving desired formations. Meanwhile, the low‐level control structure, featuring time‐varying references, incorporates the RL algorithm by transforming the time‐varying closed agent system into an equivalent autonomous system. The application of Lyapunov's direct approach, along with the existence of the Bellman function, guarantees the stability and optimality of the proposed design. Through extensive numerical simulations, encompassing various comparisons and scenarios, this study demonstrates the efficacy of the novel formation control strategy for multiple SV agent systems, showcasing its potential for real‐world applications.
Counting orientations of random graphs with no directed k‐cycles
Authors: Campos Marcelo , Collares Maurício , Mota Guilherme Oliveira
Published: November 2023

For every , we determine the order of growth, up to polylogarithmic factors, of the number of orientations of the binomial random graph containing no directed cycle of length . This solves a conjecture of Kohayakawa, Morris and the last two authors.
From traditional innovation to green innovation: How an occurrence of natural disasters influences sustainable development?
Authors: Ma Yan , Feng Gen‐Fu , Chang Chun‐Ping
Published: November 2023

With the high incidence of extreme events, it is important to examine how the occurrence of natural disasters influences long‐term sustainable development. We give evidence from the changing process of innovation. Using data from OECD countries from 1985 to 2018, we conclude that environmental threats from the occurrence of natural disasters drive countries to pay more attention to sustainable development and promote the change of innovation type from traditional to green innovation. Moreover, for different types of natural disasters, volcanic activities, landslides, and floods show a positive influence, while epidemics dampen it. Based on the sub‐sample analysis, this impact is more pronounced in countries with high levels of economic development, oil exports and right‐wing parties in power. Furthermore, renewable energy consumption acts as a positive moderator, while the moderating effects of government efficiency, corruption and globalization are inhibiting. Our paper provides new insights into natural disaster economics and sustainable development.
A Bayesian phase II proof‐of‐concept design for clinical trials with longitudinal endpoints
Authors: Zhang Wen , Laird Glen , Chen Josh , Yuan Ying
Published: November 2023

Existing phase II clinical trial designs focus on a single scalar endpoint, such as a binary, continuous, or survival endpoint. In some clinical trials, such as pain management studies, the efficacy endpoint of interest is measured longitudinally. We propose a Bayesian phase II design for such clinical trials. We model the longitudinal measurement process using Bayesian hierarchical model, where subject‐specific trajectory shrinks toward the population trajectory to borrow information across subjects. The Bayesian penalized spline is used to model subject‐specific and population trajectories without making strong parametric assumption on their shapes. We use the area under the curve of the trajectory as the summary of the treatment effect over time. The design takes a group sequential approach and takes into account both statistical significance and clinical relevance. Bayesian criteria is proposed to make interim and final decisions based on the evidence of statistical significance and clinical relevance. The proposed design is highly flexible and can accommodate trials with one or multiple longitudinal endpoints, as well as a longitudinal primary endpoint with a secondary endpoint. Simulation study shows that the proposed design is robust with desirable operating characteristics.
Photocatalytic Performance and Degradation Pathways of Z‐Scheme BiO2−X−Ag3PO4 Photocatalysts with Oxygen‐Deficient Structures
Authors: Han Hui , Jiang Sisi , Zhao Qian , Jiang Tingshun
Published: November 2023

It is a practical way to raise the efficiency of photocatalysis by using oxygen vacancy defect modified materials. In this experiment, a Z‐scheme BOA composite photocatalyst with defect structure was prepared by hydrothermal in situ precipitation method. The optimal ratio of 1.5 BOA showed excellent photocatalytic degradation performance for MO, TC and CIP under visible light irradiation, and maintained good structural stability and circulation rate after five cycles. The increased photocatalytic activity of the composite can be explained to the heterojunction interface‘s synergistic effects and the quicker electron hole transit rate caused by the surface oxygen vacancy defect. XPS and EPR confirmed the existence of anoxic structure in the composite, PL and photocurrent confirmed the high electron hole transfer rate. The active species that contributed to the degradation process were validated by the active species capture experiment and ESR. LC–MS speculated the possible degradation path of CIP. Finally speculated the reaction mechanism of Z‐scheme BOA composite photocatalyst. Using the anoxic structure of BiO2−X to form a Z‐scheme heterostructure with Ag3PO4, the oxygen vacancy as the electron capture center and active site is conducive to improving the photogenerated electron transfer rate, thereby improving the structural stability and photocatalytic performance of the complex.
Utilization of Interfacial Films of Organo‐Modified Carbon Nanotubes as Adsorption Templates for a Number of Biomolecules while Maintaining their Activity
Authors: Yamada Yuna , Xu Kai , Fujimori Atsuhiro
Published: November 2023

We investigated the versatility of a monolayer of organo‐modified single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) on a water surface as a template to maintain activity by adsorbing various biomolecules from the subphase. Organo‐modified SWCNTs with amphiphilic properties formed a Langmuir film on the subphase containing biomolecules, and adsorbed and immobilized biomolecules via electrostatic interactions. In this study, the interactions of trypsin, lysozyme, cytochrome C protein, glucose oxidase sugar chain polymer, deoxyribonucleic acid, and chitosan with SWCNTs at the air/water interface were investigated. The uniqueness of this study is that it shows the possibility of wide‐ranging applications by utilizing an organo‐modified SWCNT interfacial film as an adsorption template for various biomolecules. The expansion behavior of the surface pressure‐area isotherms indicated the existence of interactions between the organo‐modified SWCNTs monolayer on the water surface and the biomolecules. The morphology and spectroscopic properties of the films transferred onto solid substrates clearly indicate the adsorption and immobilization of biomolecular groups. DNA and chitosan were not immobilized on the organo‐modified SWCNTs film template; however, the other four enzyme/protein molecules were adsorbed onto the solid substrate and maintained their fine second‐order structures, even under harsh conditions.
Investigation of Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, and Larvicidal Activities of Favipiravir
Authors: Aydın Hasan , Uslu Uğur , Akocak Süleyman , Lolak Nebih , Sait Ahmet , Korkmaz Serol , Parmaksız Ayşe , Ceylan Onur , Aksakal Abdulbaki
Published: November 2023

Growing number of deaths due to decreased effects of antibiotics has increased the need for new antimicrobial drugs. Studies on the pharmacological effect and toxicity of favipiravir, a new antiviral drug that was informally recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) for the treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) for a while, are limited and still ongoing. We first aimed to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of favipiravir in silico. A second aim of the manuscript is to examine its antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic, antiviral and larvicidal effects in vitro. In this study, it was determined that favipiravir was effective in terms of in silico antibacterial, in vitro antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxicity, antiviral and larvicidal activities. As a result, potential areas of use can be found in terms of activities under investigation.
In Situ Sodium Chloride Cross‐Linked Fish Skin Collagen Scaffolds for Functional Hemostasis Materials
Authors: Chang Peng , Guo Kai , Li Shijie , Wang Hongtao , Tang Mingqiang
Published: November 2023

Current fish collagen hemostasis for wound healing products is commonly obtained by electrospinning or artificial cross‐linking fish collagen fibers which lacks mechanical properties, and biofunctions. Here, a new bio‐active fish skin scaffold (FSS) is shown using in situ cross‐linked scaleless freshwater fish skin adding adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs)‐produced exosomes for hemostasis and wound healing. The structure, pore size, and the thickness of FSS is studied by swelling test, Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectra, scanning electron microscope (SEM) images, and histological analysis. The biofunctions of the FSS are also tested in vitro and in vivo. FSS keeps two functional layers: The dermis layer collagen forms a sponge like structure after swelling and in situ cross‐linking treatments. The pore size of the FSS is ≈152 ± 23.54 µm, which is suitable for cells growing, angiogenesis and ASCs exosomes accelerate wound healing. The fat‐rich epidermis layer can keep the wound moisty and clean before completely healed. In vitro and in vivo experimental results indicate that FSS+Exosomes enhances rat skin cavity wound healing. In situ sodium chloride cross‐linked FSS+Exosomes provides a new strategy as functional hemostatic dressing scaffold for wound healing.
Using Decellularized Magnetic Microrobots to Deliver Functional Cells for Cartilage Regeneration
Authors: Huang Hanjin , Li Junyang , Wang Cheng , Xing Liuxi , Cao Hui , Wang Chang , Leung Chung Yan , Li Zongze , Xi Yue , Tian Hua , Li Feng , Sun Dong
Published: November 2023

The use of natural cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) has gained widespread attention in the field of cartilage tissue engineering. However, current approaches for delivering functional scaffolds for osteoarthritis (OA) therapy rely on knee surgery, which is limited by the narrow and complex structure of the articular cavity and carries the risk of injuring surrounding tissues. This work introduces a novel cell microcarrier, magnetized cartilage ECM‐derived scaffolds (M‐CEDSs), which are derived from decellularized natural porcine cartilage ECM. Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells are selected for their therapeutic potential in OA treatments. Owing to their natural composition, M‐CEDSs have a biomechanical environment similar to that of human cartilage and can efficiently load functional cells while maintaining high mobility. The cells are released spontaneously at a target location for at least 20 days. Furthermore, cell‐seeded M‐CEDSs show better knee joint function recovery than control groups 3 weeks after surgery in preclinical experiments, and ex vivo experiments reveal that M‐CEDSs can rapidly aggregate inside tissue samples. This work demonstrates the use of decellularized microrobots for cell delivery and their in vivo therapeutic effects in preclinical tests.
Multiscale Design for Robust, Thermal Insulating, and Flame Self‐Extinguishing Cellulose Foam
Authors: Sun Hao , Zheng Dingyuan , Zhu Yeling , Zhu Penghui , Ye Yuhang , Zhang Yifan , Yu Zhengyang , Yang Pu , Sun Xia , Jiang Feng
Published: November 2023

Cellulose foams are in high demand in an era of prioritizing environmental consciousness. Yet, transferring the exceptional mechanical properties of cellulose fibers into a cellulose network remains a significant challenge. To address this challenge, an innovative multiscale design is developed for producing cellulose foam with exceptional network integrity. Specifically, this design relies on a combination of physical cross–linking of the microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) networks by cellulose nanofibril (CNF) and aluminum ion (Al3+), as well as self‐densification of the cellulose induced by ice‐crystal templating, physical cross–linking, solvent exchange, and evaporation. The resultant cellulose foam demonstrates a low density of 40.7 mg cm–3, a high porosity of 97.3%, and a robust network with high compressive modulus of 1211.5 ± 60.6 kPa and energy absorption of 77.8 ± 1.9 kJ m−3. The introduction of CNF network and Al3+ cross–linking into foam also confers excellent wet stability and flame self‐extinguish ability. Furthermore, the foam can be easily biodegraded in natural environments , re‐entering the ecosystem's carbon cycle. This strategy yields a cellulose foam with a robust network and outstanding environmental durability, opening new possibilities for the advancement of high‐performance foam materials.
Anisotropic Multitentacle Janus Particles Synthesized by Selective Asymmetric Growth
Authors: Long Yingchun , Wu Qiuhua , Jiang Chao , Zhang Guolin , Liang Fuxin
Published: November 2023

Anisotropic colloidal particles with asymmetric morphology possess functionally rich heterogeneous structures, thus offering potential for intricate superstructures or nanodevices. However, it is a challenge to achieve controlled asymmetric surface partitioned growth. In this work, an innovative strategy is developed based on the selective adsorption and growth of emulsion droplets onto different regions of object which is controlled by wettability. It is found that the emulsion droplets can selectively adsorb on the hydrophilic surface but not the hydrophobic one, and further form asymmetric tentacle by the interfacial sol–gel process along its trajectory. Janus particles with an anisotropic shape and multitentacle structure are achieved via integration of emulsion droplet (soft) and seed (hard) templates. The size and number of tentacles exhibit tunability mediated by soft and hard templates, respectively. This general strategy can be expanded to a variety of planar substrates or curved particles, further confirming the correlation between tentacle growth and Brownian motion. Most interestingly, it can be employed to selectively modify one region of surface partitioned particles to achieve an ABC three‐component Janus structure.
Engineering Zinc–Organic Frameworks‐Based Artificial Carbonic Anhydrase with Ultrafast Biomimetic Centers for Efficient Hydration Reactions
Authors: Li Lin , Xu Wenjie , Wu Zihe , Geng Wei , Li Shuang , Sun Shudong , Wang Mao , Cheng Chong , Zhao Changsheng
Published: November 2023

Constructing effective and robust biocatalysts with carbonic anhydrase (CA)‐mimetic activities offers an alternative and promising pathway for diverse CO2‐related catalytic applications. However, there is very limited success has been achieved in controllably synthesizing CA‐mimetic biocatalysts. Here, inspired by the 3D coordination environments of CAs, this study reports on the design of an ultrafast ZnN3‐OH2 center via tuning the 3D coordination structures and mesoporous defects in a zinc–dipyrazolate framework to serve as new, efficient, and robust CA‐mimetic biocatalysts (CABs) to catalyze the hydration reactions. Owing to the structural advantages and high similarity with the active center of natural CAs, the double‐walled CAB with mesoporous defects displays superior CA‐like reaction kinetics in p‐NPA hydrolysis (V0 = 445.16 nM s−1, Vmax = 3.83 µM s−1, turnover number: 5.97 × 10−3 s−1), which surpasses the by‐far‐reported metal–organic frameworks‐based biocatalysts. This work offers essential guidance in tuning 3D coordination environments in artificial enzymes and proposes a new strategy to create high‐performance CA‐mimetic biocatalysts for broad applications, such as CO2 hydration/capture, CO2 sensing, and abundant hydrolytic reactions.
An international empirical study on the relationship between decision‐making information complexity and resource‐based view in small and medium‐sized enterprises
Authors: Sipos Norbert , Bányai Edit , Venczel‐Szakó Tímea
Published: November 2023

This study contributes to the topic of small and medium‐sized enterprise (SME) decision‐making peculiarities from a resource‐based view (RBV). It provides empirical evidence on the relationship between the decision of SMEs and a variety of information sources. We analysed a comprehensive dataset drawn from the Global Competitiveness Project on SMEs' competitiveness, including cross‐sectional data of 784 businesses from eight countries. The extent of information used by SMEs is positively affected by the intensity of competition, networking and the existence of formal and informal relationships, the higher level of innovation activity and a more complex compensation system. We could only partially support the fact that the amount of information used by SMEs in decision‐making is positively influenced by their marketing practices. The SME leaders should consider the fact that their business is much smaller than their potential benchmarking counterparts, and a mere imitation of decision‐making‐related information sources is not necessarily leading to the desired outcome.
Nutrition and Hydration
Authors: Roigk Patrick , Graeb Fabian , Geirsdóttir Ólöf Guðný , Bell Jack
Published: November 2023

Nutrition and hydration are fundamental aspects of healthcare, especially in the care of older people, particularly those in hospitals or in long-term care facilities. Worldwide, nurses are ‘best-placed’ coordinators of interdisciplinary nutritional management and care processes. Even so, it is essential that nurses collaborate with other healthcare specialists as an interdisciplinary team to provide high-quality care that reflects patients’ needs for assessment, intervention, and health promotion. When an interdisciplinary team work collaboratively, care is more successful, improves patient outcomes, and reduces the risk of in-hospital and long-term mortality.

The care process begins with screening and monitoring of the nutritional status and fluid intake of all older people within 24 h of admission. In the case of positive screening, comprehensive assessment and involvement of other team members should undertake to understand the underlying problem. Appropriate food and appealing meals, snacks, and drinks should be available and offered with recommended amounts of energy, protein, vitamins, minerals (particularly calcium), and water. This should be complemented with supplementary drinks if intake is not adequate. The prescription of vitamin D and calcium should be discussed.

Patient-centred and evidence-based information should provide and interventions in the case of end-of-life care should be appropriate discussed. Educating, informing, and involving patients and families increases their level of health literacy. Malnutrition and/or dehydration management should be included in the discharge plan.

The aim of this chapter is to increase awareness of nurses’ responsibility, within a multidisciplinary team, for assessment and intervention of nutrition and hydration, examine the issues pertaining to nutrition and fluid balance in older people and outline the nature, assessment and interventions relating to malnutrition and dehydration.
Orthogeriatric Care in the Emergency and Perioperative Setting
Authors: Jensen Charlotte Myhre , Skúladóttir Sigrún Sunna , Palm Henrik , Rogmark Cecilia
Published: November 2023

This chapter explores the perioperative care of older people with significant fragility fractures requiring orthogeriatric care, with a focus on hip fracture as the most common of these injures. Surgery is the preferred treatment for most hip fractures. Perioperative care concerns the pre-, intra- and post-operative phase of the surgery. Principles of care and management include all fundamental aspects of care as well as specialised interventions for older people with a focus on prevention and recognition of complications.

The care of the orthogeriatric patient following hip fracture and subsequent surgery presents significant challenges for the healthcare team. Assessment and subsequent care are best provided by effective interdisciplinary team working based on sound orthogeriatric principles. Nurses are often not only the caregivers, but also the coordinators of that care, and need to understand different types of hip fracture and their management so that they can deliver evidence-based acute and perioperative care to patients based on each person’s specific needs.

Acquiring a hip fracture is experienced as a life-changing event with severe and frightening consequences for the individual. Although physical care attracts the most attention, patients’ existential worries and concerns must be considered as achieving good outcomes in rehabilitation after a hip fracture requires significant motivation and effort from the person.

The aim of this chapter is to outline the fundamental care principles across the three perioperative phases. Effective evidence-based nursing care is crucial in optimising patient outcomes following hip fracture. Even once the patient has recovered from surgery, there remains the need to comprehensively prepare them for discharge.
Early Mobilisation and Exercise After Fragility Fracture
Authors: Kristensen Morten Tange , Keene David J. , Queirós Carmen
Published: November 2023

The aim of this chapter is to promote the role of the nurse and other practitioners in patients’ early mobilisation and exercise after fragility fractures. The importance of early mobilisation and exercise is highlighted, along with practical information on assessment, pain and weight bearing and tips on how to facilitate early mobilisation. There is a focus on early mobilisation after hip fracture as this is the most common significant fragility fracture requiring hospitalisation and surgery. However, many of the issues covered are in common with other types of fragility fracture.
Marrow stimulation procedures for high‐grade cartilage lesions during surgical repair of medial meniscus root tear yielded suboptimal outcomes, whilst small lesions showed surgical eligibility
Authors: Moon Hyun‐Soo , Jung Min , Choi Chong‐Hyuk , Yoo Je‐Hyun , Nam Bum‐Joon , Lee Seung‐Hun , Shin Seung‐Hwan , Kim Dong‐Ki , Kim Sung‐Hwan
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To investigate the surgical outcomes of arthroscopic pull‐out repair for medial meniscus root tear (MMRT) combined with the marrow stimulation procedures (MSP) for accompanying high‐grade cartilage lesions.

Methods

Patients who underwent arthroscopic pull‐out repair for MMRT between 2010 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who had at least 3 years of follow‐up were included and classified into two groups according to whether MSP (microfracture or microdrilling) were performed on cartilage lesions in the medial tibiofemoral joint (group 1, patients with International Cartilage Repair Society [ICRS] grade 0–3a lesions and did not undergo MSP; group 2, patients with ICRS grade 3b–3d lesions and underwent MSP). Comparative analyses, including non‐inferiority trials, were conducted between groups for subjective and objective outcomes. In addition, group 2 was further divided into two subgroups according to cartilage lesion size and compared with group 1 (group S, ≤ 2.0 cm2; group L, > 2.0 cm2).

Results

A total of 94 patients were included (group 1, 68 patients; group 2, 26 patients). There were no significant differences in clinical scores at postoperative 3 years and final follow‐up between groups 1 and 2, but group 2 failed to satisfy the non‐inferiority criteria compared to group 1 overall. In objective outcomes, group 2 did not meet the non‐inferiority criteria for the rate of osteoarthritis progression compared to group 1, and it also showed a significantly higher proportion of high‐grade osteoarthritis at final follow‐up (P = 0.044) and a higher degree of osteoarthritis progression than group 1 (P = 0.03 for pre‐ to postoperative 3 years, and P = 0.006 for pre‐ to final follow‐up). In additional evaluations comparing the subgroups of group 2 and group 1, group S showed relatively favourable results compared to group L in objective outcomes at final follow‐up.

Conclusion

Patients who underwent arthroscopic pull‐out repair for MMRT combined with MSP for accompanying high‐grade cartilage lesions showed suboptimal outcomes compared to those with no or low‐grade lesions at mid‐term follow‐up. High‐grade cartilage lesions ≤ 2.0 cm2 may be candidates for the surgical repair of MMRT if MSP are performed, but those with larger lesions may require alternative treatment strategies.

Level of evidence

III.
Analysis of the mechanism of curcumin against osteoarthritis using metabolomics and transcriptomics
Authors: Deng Wenxiang , He Qinghu , Zhang Wenan
Published: November 2023

Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa), has been extensively studied for its anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. The safety and efficacy of curcumin have been thoroughly validated. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanism for treating osteoarthritis remains ambiguous. This study aims to reveal the potential mechanism of curcumin in treating osteoarthritis by using metabolomics and transcriptomics. Firstly, we validated the effect of curcumin on inflammatory factors in human articular chondrocytes. Secondly, we explored the cellular metabolism mechanism of curcumin against osteoarthritis using cell metabolomics. Thirdly, we assessed the differences in gene expression of human articular chondrocytes through transcriptomics. Lastly, to evaluate the essential targets and elucidate the potential mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of curcumin in osteoarthritis, we conducted a screening of the proteins within the shared pathway of metabolomics and transcriptomics. Our results demonstrated that curcumin significantly decreased the levels of inflammatory markers, such as IL-β, IL-6, and TNF-α, in human articular chondrocytes. Cell metabolomics identified 106 differential metabolites, including beta-aminopropionitrile, 3-amino-2-piperidone, pyrrole-2-carboxaldehyde, and various other components. The transcriptomic analysis yielded 1050 differential mRNAs. Enrichment analysis showed that the differential metabolites and mRNAs were significantly enriched in seven pathways, including glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism; pentose and glucuronate interconversions; glycerolipid metabolism; histidine metabolism; mucin-type o-glycan biosynthesis; inositol phosphate metabolism; and cysteine and methionine metabolism. A total of 23 key targets were identified to be involved in these pathways. We speculate that curcumin may alleviate osteoarthritis by targeting key proteins involved in glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism; inhibiting pyruvate production; and modulating glycolysis.
High contrast cartilaginous endplate imaging in spine using three dimensional dual-inversion recovery prepared ultrashort echo time (3D DIR-UTE) sequence
Authors: Athertya Jiyo S. , Lo James , Chen Xiaojun , Shin Soo Hyun , Malhi Bhavsimran Singh , Jerban Saeed , Ji Yang , Sedaghat Sam , Yoshioka Hiroshi , Du Jiang , Guma Monica , Chang Eric Y. , Ma Yajun
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility and application of a novel imaging technique, a three-dimensional dual adiabatic inversion recovery prepared ultrashort echo time (3D DIR-UTE) sequence, for high contrast assessment of cartilaginous endplate (CEP) imaging with head-to-head comparisons between other UTE imaging techniques.

Method

The DIR-UTE sequence employs two narrow-band adiabatic full passage (AFP) pulses to suppress signals from long T2 water (e.g., nucleus pulposus (NP)) and bone marrow fat (BMF) independently, followed by multispoke UTE acquisition to detect signals from the CEP with short T2 relaxation times. The DIR-UTE sequence, in addition to three other UTE sequences namely, an IR-prepared and fat-saturated UTE (IR-FS-UTE), a T1-weighted and fat-saturated UTE sequence (T1w-FS-UTE), and a fat-saturated UTE (FS-UTE) was used for MR imaging on a 3 T scanner to image six asymptomatic volunteers, six patients with low back pain, as well as a human cadaveric specimen. The contrast-to-noise ratio of the CEP relative to the adjacent structures—specifically the NP and BMF—was then compared from the acquired images across the different UTE sequences.

Results

For asymptomatic volunteers, the DIR-UTE sequence showed significantly higher contrast-to-noise ratio values between the CEP and BMF (CNRCEP-BMF) (19.9 ± 3.0) and between the CEP and NP (CNRCEP-NP) (23.1 ± 1.7) compared to IR-FS-UTE (CNRCEP-BMF: 17.3 ± 1.2 and CNRCEP-NP: 19.1 ± 1.8), T1w-FS-UTE (CNRCEP-BMF: 9.0 ± 2.7 and CNRCEP-NP: 10.4 ± 3.5), and FS-UTE (CNRCEP-BMF: 7.7 ± 2.2 and CNRCEP-NP: 5.8 ± 2.4) for asymptomatic volunteers (all P-values < 0.001). For the spine sample and patients with low back pain, the DIR-UTE technique detected abnormalities such as irregularities and focal defects in the CEP regions.

Conclusion

The 3D DIR-UTE sequence is able to provide high-contrast volumetric CEP imaging for human spines on a clinical 3 T scanner.
The dysfunctional immune response in renal cell carcinoma correlates with changes in the metabolic landscape of ccRCC during disease progression
Authors: Annels Nicola E. , Denyer M. , Nicol D. , Hazell S. , Silvanto A. , Crockett M. , Hussain M. , Moller-Levet Carla , Pandha Hardev
Published: November 2023

Renal cell carcinoma is an immunogenic tumour with a prominent dysfunctional immune cell infiltrate, unable to control tumour growth. Although tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immunotherapy have improved the outlook for some patients, many individuals are non-responders or relapse despite treatment. The hostile metabolic environment in RCC affects the ability of T-cells to maintain their own metabolic programme constraining T-cell immunity in RCC. We investigated the phenotype, function and metabolic capability of RCC TILs correlating this with clinicopathological features of the tumour and metabolic environment at the different disease stages. Flow cytometric analysis of freshly isolated TILs showed the emergence of exhausted T-cells in advanced disease based on their PD-1high and CD39 expression and reduced production of inflammatory cytokines upon in vitro stimulation. Exhausted T-cells from advanced stage disease also displayed an overall phenotype of metabolic insufficiency, characterized by mitochondrial alterations and defects in glucose uptake. Nanostring nCounter cancer metabolism assay on RNA obtained from 30 ccRCC cases revealed significant over-expression of metabolic genes even at early stage disease (pT1-2), while at pT3-4 and the locally advanced thrombi stages, there was an overall decrease in differentially expressed metabolic genes. Notably, the gene PPARGC1A was the most significantly down-regulated gene from pT1-2 to pT3-4 RCC which correlated with loss of mitochondrial function in tumour-infiltrating T-cells evident at this tumour stage. Down-regulation of PPARGC1A into stage pT3-4 may be the ‘tipping-point’ in RCC disease progression, modulating immune activity in ccRCC and potentially reducing the efficacy of immunotherapies in RCC and poorer patient outcomes.
Primary immunodeficiency diseases of adults: a review of pulmonary complication imaging findings
Authors: Grenier Philippe A. , Brun Anne Laure , Longchampt Elisabeth , Lipski Madeleine , Mellot François , Catherinot Emilie
Published: November 2023

Our objective in this review is to familiarize radiologists with the spectrum of initial and progressive CT manifestations of pulmonary complications observed in adult patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases, including primary antibody deficiency (PAD), hyper-IgE syndrome (HIES), and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). In patients with PAD, recurrent pulmonary infections may lead to airway remodeling with bronchial wall-thickening, bronchiectasis, mucus-plugging, mosaic perfusion, and expiratory air-trapping. Interstitial lung disease associates pulmonary lymphoid hyperplasia, granulomatous inflammation, and organizing pneumonia and is called granulomatous-lymphocytic interstitial lung disease (GLILD). The CT features of GLILD are solid and semi-solid pulmonary nodules and areas of air space consolidation, reticular opacities, and lymphadenopathy. These features may overlap those of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, justifying biopsies. In patients with HIES, particularly the autosomal dominant type (Job syndrome), recurrent pyogenic infections lead to permanent lung damage. Secondary infections with aspergillus species develop in pre-existing pneumatocele and bronchiectasis areas, leading to chronic airway infection. The complete spectrum of CT pulmonary aspergillosis may be seen including aspergillomas, chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA)-like pattern, mixed pattern, and invasive. Patients with CGD present with recurrent bacterial and fungal infections leading to parenchymal scarring, traction bronchiectasis, cicatricial emphysema, airway remodeling, and mosaicism. Invasive aspergillosis, the major cause of mortality, manifests as single or multiple nodules, areas of airspace consolidation that may be complicated by abscess, empyema, or contiguous extension to the pleura or chest wall.

Clinical relevance statement

Awareness of the imaging findings spectrum of pulmonary complications that can occur in adult patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases is important to minimize diagnostic delay and improve patient outcomes.

Key Points

• Unexplained bronchiectasis, associated or not with CT findings of obliterative bronchiolitis, should evoke a potential diagnosis of primary autoantibody deficiency.

• The CT evidence of various patterns of aspergillosis developed in severe bronchiectasis or pneumatocele in a young adult characterizes the pulmonary complications of hyper-IgE syndrome.

• In patients with chronic granulomatous disease, invasive aspergillosis is relatively frequent, often asymptomatic, and sometimes mimicking or associated with non-infectious inflammatory pulmonary lesions.
Mammographic features and risk of breast cancer death among women with invasive screen-detected cancer in BreastScreen Norway 1996–2020
Authors: Moshina Nataliia , Backmann Heinrich A. , Skaane Per , Hofvind Solveig
Published: November 2023

Objectives

We explored associations between mammographic features and risk of breast cancer death among women with small (<15 mm) and large (≥15 mm) invasive screen-detected breast cancer.

Methods

We included data from 17,614 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer as a result of participation in BreastScreen Norway, 1996–2020. Data on mammographic features (mass, spiculated mass, architectural distortion, asymmetric density, density with calcification and calcification alone), tumour diameter and cause of death was obtained from the Cancer Registry of Norway. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for breast cancer death by mammographic features using spiculated mass as reference, adjusting for age, tumour diameter and lymph node status. All analyses were dichotomised by tumour diameter (small versus large).

Results

Mean age at diagnosis was 60.8 (standard deviation, SD=5.8) for 10,160 women with small tumours and 60.0 (SD=5.8) years for 7454 women with large tumours. The number of breast cancer deaths was 299 and 634, respectively. Mean time from diagnosis to death was 8.7 (SD=5.0) years for women with small tumours and 7.2 (4.6) years for women with large tumours. Using spiculated mass as reference, adjusted HR for breast cancer death among women with small tumours was 2.48 (95% CI 1.67–3.68) for calcification alone, while HR for women with large tumours was 1.30 (95% CI 1.02–1.66) for density with calcification.

Conclusions

Small screen-detected invasive cancers presenting as calcification and large screen-detected cancers presenting as density with calcification were associated with the highest risk of breast cancer death.

Clinical relevance statement

Small tumours (<15 mm) presented as calcification alone and large tumours (≥ 15 mm) presented as density with calcification were associated with the highest risk of breast cancer death among women with screen-detected invasive breast cancer diagnosed 1996–2020.

Key Points

• Women diagnosed with invasive screen-detected breast cancer 1996–2020 were analysed.

• Small screen-detected cancers presenting as calcification alone resulted in the highest risk of breast cancer death.

• Large screen-detected cancers presenting as density with calcification resulted in the highest risk of breast cancer death.