bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between theoretical knowledge and the difference between self‐ and teaching doctor‐assessment
Authors: Goob Janosch , Erdelt Kurt , Nold Ephraim , Liebermann Anja
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The right intuition for self‐assessment without overestimating or underestimating oneself compared to theoretical knowledge is a skill that requires conscious practice and is very often paradoxically opposed to the level of knowledge. Self‐assessment is an essential skill for dental professionals for lifelong learning and improvement. The objective of our study was to assess the correlation between theoretical knowledge and the difference between self‐ and teaching doctor‐assessment.

Methods

The app “digital course organizer” for organization and assessment was used for the self‐ and teaching doctor‐assessment of students for each day of patient treatment during the clinical courses at a university hospital. The difference between the self‐ and teaching doctor‐assessment was compared to the score of an initial theoretical written test at the beginning of the eighth semester to assess the correlation between overestimation or underestimation and theoretical knowledge.

Results

A total of 309 dental students over four semesters in the clinical study phase (fourth and fifth years; eighth and 10th semesters) participated in the investigation. The overall view of all values showed very low correlations (<0.2) of the assessment difference values of both practical courses for the initial written test.

Conclusion

There were very low correlations between the initial written test (theoretical knowledge) and the difference between self‐ and teaching doctor‐assessment as well as no evidence of overestimation and underestimation.
Infantile epileptic spasm syndrome as a new NR2F1 gene phenotype
Authors: Liang Yan , Wan Lin , Liu Xinting , Zhang Jing , Zhu Gang , Yang Guang
Published: November 2023

Introduction

NR2F1 pathogenetic variants are associated with the Bosch–Boonstra–Schaaf optic atrophy syndrome (BBSOAS). Recent studies indicate that BBSOAS patients not only have visual impairments but may also have developmental delays, hypotonia, thin corpus callosum and epileptic seizures. However, reports of BBSOAS occurrence along with infantile epileptic spasm syndrome (IESS) are rare.

Methods

Here, we report three cases involving children with IESS and BBSOAS caused by de novo NR2F1 pathogenetic variants and summarize the genotype, clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of them.

Results

All three children experienced epileptic spasms and global developmental delays, with brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) suggesting abnormalities (thinning of the corpus callosum or widened extracerebral spaces) and two of the children exhibiting abnormal visual evoked potentials.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that new missense NR2F1 pathogenetic variants may lead to IESS with abnormal visual evoked potentials. Thus, clinicians should be aware of the Bosch–Boonstra–Schaaf optic atrophy syndrome and regular monitoring of the fundus, and the optic nerve is necessary during follow‐up.
Cancer cell invasion alters the protein profile of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Luoto Jens C. , Coelho‐Rato Leila S. , Jungarå Cecilia , Bengs Sara H. , Roininen Jannica , Eriksson John E. , Sistonen Lea , Henriksson Eva
Published: November 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important mediators of intercellular communication involved in local and long‐range signalling of cancer metastasis. The onset of invasion is the key step of the metastatic cascade, but the secretion of EVs has remained unexplored at that stage due to technical challenges. In this study, we present a platform to track EVs over the course of invasive development of human prostate cancer cell (PC3) tumoroids utilizing in vivo‐mimicking extracellular matrix‐based 3D cultures. Using this EV production method, combined with proteomic profiling, we show that PC3 tumoroids secrete EVs with previously undefined protein cargo. Intriguingly, an increase in EV amounts and extensive changes in the EV protein composition were detected upon invasive transition of the tumoroids. The changes in EV protein cargo were counteracted by chemical inhibition of invasion. These results reveal the impact of the tumoroids’ invasive status on EV secretion and cargo, and highlight the necessity of in vivo‐mimicking conditions for uncovering novel cancer‐derived EV components.
Prognostic evaluation of the novel blueprint of DNA methylation sites by integrating bulk RNA‐sequencing and methylation modification data in endometrial cancer
Authors: Zhou Huanzhen , Zhang Yingzhi , Jin Jing , Shen Kewei , Yang Yang , Lao Peiwei
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Endometrial cancer (EC) is a prevalent malignancy affecting the female population, with an increasing incidence among younger age groups. DNA methylation, a common epigenetic modification, is well‐established to play a key role in cancer progression. We suspected whether DNA methylation could be used as biomarkers for EC prognosis.

Methods

In the present study, we analyzed bulk RNA‐sequencing data from 544 EC patients and DNA methylation data from 430 EC patients in the TCGA‐UCEC cohort. We applied weighted correlation network analysis to select a key gene set associated with panoptosis. We conducted correlation analysis between transcriptomic data of the selected key genes and DNA methylation data to identify valuable DNA methylation sites. These sites were further screened by Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis. Immune microenvironment differences between high‐risk and low‐risk groups were assessed using single‐sample gene set enrichment analysi, xCell and MCPcounter algorithms.

Results

Our results identified five DNA methylation sites (cg03906681, cg04549977, cg06029846, cg10043253 and cg15658376) with significant prognostic value in EC. We constructed a prognostic model using these sites, demonstrating satisfactory predictive performance. The low‐risk group showed higher immune cell infiltration. Notably, methylation of site cg03906681 was negatively related to CD8 T cell infiltration, whereas cg04549977 exhibited positive correlations with immune infiltration, particularly in macrophages, activated B cells, dendritic cells and myeloid‐derived suppressor cells. PD0325901_1060 was strongly correlated with risk scores, indicating a potential therapeutic response for high‐risk EC patients.

Conclusion

We have developed a robust DNA methylation‐based prognostic model for EC, which holds promise for improving prognosis prediction and personalized treatment approaches. These findings may contribute to better management of EC patients, particularly in identifying those at higher risk who may benefit from tailored interventions.
New thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidine derivatives as EGFRWT and EGFRT790M inhibitors: Design, synthesis, antiproliferative activities, docking studies, ADMET, toxicity, MD simulation studies
Authors: Sobh Eman A. , Dahab Mohammed A. , Elkaeed Eslam B. , Alsfouk Bshra A. , Ibrahim Ibrahim M. , Metwaly Ahmed M. , Eissa Ibrahim H.
Published: November 2023

A series of thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidines were designed and synthesized as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. These compounds were tested for their ability to inhibit MCF‐7 and A549 cancer cells. The most active compound, 12c, inhibited the growth of both cell lines, with IC50 values of 15.67 and 12.16 μM, respectively. It was found that 12c had inhibitory effects on both EGFRWT and EGFRT790M isoforms, with inhibitory partialities of 37.50 and 148.90 nM, respectively. Additionally, 12c was found to be safer than erlotinib against normal cell lines (IC50 = 38.61 μM). Compound 12c induced early and late apoptosis in A549 cells and arrested cell growth at G1 and G2/M phases. 12c was also found to increase caspases 3 and 8 ratios. Molecular docking indicated the correct binding modes of the synthesized compounds. MD simulations, MM‐GBSA, and PLIP studies confirmed the precise binding of 12c to the EGFR protein over 100 ns.
Changes and gaps of global and regional disease burden of hepatitis B infection in children younger than 5 years old between 2015 and 2019: A real‐world data review
Authors: Wang Chao , Zhang Sihui , Zhao Jun , Wang Mingting , Lu Qing‐Bin , Liu Bei , Du Juan , Cui Fuqiang
Published: November 2023

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has been declared an ongoing health threat, especially infections among children. We compared and updated the disease burden of HBV infection and the effectiveness of vaccination among children younger than 5 years to offer indications for hepatitis B prevention across the world. The country‐level data on the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), the coverages of hepatitis B vaccine birth‐dose (HepB‐BD), three‐dose series (HepB3), income level, population density/size, and human development index were collected from open access databases including WHO, UNICEF, and World Bank. Comparison of the prevalence of HBsAg under 5 years old between 2015 and 2019 based on vaccination coverages was conducted by the gamma generalized linear mixed model. Globally, more than 6.3 million HBV infections were estimated in children under 5 years in 2019, compared to 10.1 million in 2015 within the 179 countries involved. The pooled average prevalence of HBsAg among children younger than 5 years decreased from 1.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–1.8) to 0.9% (95% CI: 0.7–1.2). The rate difference or rate ratio was −0.5% (95% CI: −0.6% to −0.3%) or 0.51(95% CI: 0.44–0.58), respectively. Countries from the African region or with lower income/population density/human development indexes bore the most significant disease burden of hepatitis B. Higher coverages of hepatitis B vaccine birth‐dose or primary series correlated with significant HBsAg prevalence decreases and much‐decreased ratio, independently. Hepatitis B prevention among children under 5 years has significantly been achieved while remaining the most life‐threatening disease burden, unequally distributed worldwide. The hepatitis B vaccination should be prioritized for all newborns, especially in those resource‐constrained countries or regions.
The potential of PCNA inhibition as a therapeutic strategy in cervical cancer
Authors: Wendel Sebastian O. , Snow Jazmine A. , Gu Long , Banerjee Nilam Sanjib , Malkas Linda , Wallace Nicholas A.
Published: November 2023

Cervical cancers are the fourth most common and most deadly cancer in women worldwide. Despite being a tremendous public health burden, few novel approaches to improve care for these malignancies have been introduced. We discuss the potential for proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) inhibition to address this need as well as the advantages and disadvantages for compounds that can therapeutically inhibit PCNA with a specific focus on cervical cancer.
Nutritional deficiency anemia and post‐acute sequelae in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection: A six‐month retrospective cohort analysis of 30 892 patients
Authors: Wu Jheng‐Yan , Liu Mei‐Yuan , Hung Kuo‐Chuan , Hsu Wan‐Hsuan , Tsai Ya‐Wen , Liu Ting‐Hui , Huang Po‐Yu , Chuang Min‐Hsiang , Hsieh Ya‐Ling , Lai Chi‐Cheng , Kuo Yu‐Hsuan
Published: November 2023

The effect of anemia on the post‐acute outcome of patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection was unclear. This study aimed to investigate the potential association between nutritional deficiency anemia (NDA) status and post‐acute sequelae of patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. This retrospective cohort study included patients with coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) from January 1, 2022 to November 30, 2022 using the TriNetX research network. The patients were grouped into the NDA group comprising patients diagnosed with NDA and the control group comprising patients without NDA, and propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance the two groups. The primary outcome was a composite of post‐COVID‐19 condition, all‐cause hospitalization, and all‐cause death. The secondary outcomes were any individual outcomes of the primary composite. The follow‐up period was set at 90–180 days after COVID‐19 diagnosis. Two cohorts comprising 15 446 nonhospitalized patients with COVID‐19 in each group with balanced baseline characteristics were created using PSM. During the follow‐up period, the NDA group demonstrated a higher risk of the composite primary outcome, including post‐COVID‐19 condition, all‐cause hospitalization, or all‐cause death (hazard ratio [HR], 1.896; 95% confidence interval [CI] =  1.757–2.045). Regarding secondary outcomes, the NDA group was associated with worse outcomes, including post‐COVID‐19 condition (HR, 1.992; 95% CI = 1.403–2.828), all‐cause hospitalization (HR, 1.856; 95% CI = 1.714–2.009), and all‐cause death (HR, 3.922; 95% CI = 2.910–5.285) compared to the control group. Among nonhospitalized patients with COVID‐19, NDA was associated with a higher risk of post‐COVID‐19 condition, all‐cause hospitalization, and all‐cause death during the 90–180‐day follow‐up period.
Phenolics and spectroscopy: challenges and successful stories in the grape and wine industry
Authors: Cozzolino Daniel
Published: November 2023

Phenolic compounds are considered to have a major role in the quality of grapes and wine. These compounds contribute to the sensory perception of red wine as they are involved in astringency and bitterness as well as in determining the colour intensity of grapes and wine (e.g., anthocyanins content). Several techniques are used to characterise and quantify these compounds in grapes and wine samples such as ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy or high‐performance liquid chromatography. More recently, different applications and reports have shown the value of vibrational spectroscopy techniques to monitor and measure phenolic compounds along the grape and wine value chain. This article summarises as well as discusses challenges and successful stories in relation to the utilisation of vibrational spectroscopy techniques to measure phenolic compounds in grapes and wine. Specifically, content presented at the workshop ‘Outstanding sensors challenge beverage and food future’ organised by the Italian Society of Food Science and Technology and the University of Pisa (Pisa, Italy) is summarised. Although vibrational spectroscopy techniques have been proven to be of importance to measure composition across the grape and wine value chain, the adoption of these technologies has been compromised by the accessibility and price of instruments. Understanding the basic principles of the different vibrational spectroscopy methods (e.g., characteristics, limit of detection) as well as how to effectively use the data generated are still main barriers facing the incorporation of these techniques into the grape and wine industry. Furthermore, is still not clear for many users of these technologies how they will contribute to the sustainability of the wine industry as well as to preserve the identity of the wine making process. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Chemical components characterization and in vivo metabolites profiling of Lingbao Huxin Dan by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Huang Fan , Wang Ziying , Wang Lulu , Liu Ruxia , Ma Chi , Che Yanzhong , He Yiwen , Ye Ji
Published: November 2023

Lingbao Huxin Dan (LBHX) is an effective prescription for treating various cardiovascular diseases. However, its systematic chemical composition analysis and important marker components remain unclear, which hinders the development of standards or guidelines for quality evaluation. Herein, a high‐resolution and efficient method was established to comprehensively investigate the chemical ingredients and metabolites of LBHX by using gas chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. AutoDock Vina was applied to conduct visual screening for identifying potential active compounds targeting two important sick sinus syndrome‐associated proteins. As a result, 53 volatile compounds, as well as 191 non‐volatile chemical components, including bufadienolides, diterpenoids, bile acids, phenolic acids, and triterpenoid saponins, were unambiguously characterized or tentatively identified. Fifty prototypes and 62 metabolites were identified in the plasma of rats, whilst metabolism reactions included phase I reactions (hydrolysis, oxidation, and hydroxylation) and phase II reactions (glucuronidation and methylation). Eleven compounds with good binding affinity have been observed by docking with key proteins. It is the first systematic study on the pharmacodynamic material basis of LBHX and the result consolidates the foundation for further study regarding the mechanism in treating cardiovascular diseases.
Trophic plasticity of omnivorous fishes in natural and human‐dominated landscapes
Authors: Neves Mayara Pereira , Delariva Rosilene Luciana , Perkins Daniel M. , Fialho Clarice Bernhardt , Kratina Pavel
Published: November 2023

The persistence of diverse communities and functioning ecosystems under increasing anthropogenic pressure relies on food web rewiring and the ability of animals to expand or change their diet in disturbed ecosystems. We combined a suite of diet tracing techniques to study trophic plasticity in omnivorous fishes, ecomorphologically similar species with high competition potential, across different human land uses in subtropical streams. We found that the proportion of native forest cover, associated with intensive land use, altered the isotopic composition of fishes, which were more enriched in 13C, without affecting the carbon isotope ratios of their prey and basal resources. There was also evidence for a nonlinear effect of native forest cover on the δ15N values of basal resources, macroinvertebrates, and omnivorous fishes, indicating that nutrient pollution from agriculture propagated through stream food webs. The most widely distributed fish species shifted their diet from autochthonous resources to terrestrial invertebrates and sedimentary organic matter in disturbed streams. Moreover, the isotopic niche of this fish species was broader in streams with higher fish species richness, indicating the combined impacts of environmental change and competition on species coexistence. Therefore, our findings showed that the dominance and trophic niche breadth of dominant omnivores depend not only on the availability of resources but also on the interactions with their putative competitors.
Biological sources and sinks of dimethylsulfide disentangled by an induced bloom experiment and a numerical model
Authors: Le Gland Guillaume , Masdeu‐Navarro Marta , Galí Martí , Vallina Sergio M. , Gralka Matti , Vincent Flora , Cordero Otto , Vardi Assaf , Simó Rafel
Published: November 2023

Dimethylsulfide (DMS) is a climatically active trace gas promoting cloud formation. The biochemical precursor of DMS, dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), is a phytoplankton metabolite and a source of reduced sulfur for many microbial species. Because of the complex interactions between their many producers and consumers, the dynamics of DMSP and DMS in the ocean are still poorly constrained. In this study we measure particulate DMSP, dissolved DMSP (), and DMS concentrations in seven mesocosms where two consecutive phytoplankton blooms (first, pico‐ and nano‐algae; second, Emiliania huxleyi) were induced by nutrient addition, and we build a mechanistic numerical model to identify the sources and sinks that best account for the observations. The mesocosms were designed as replicates but differ from each other by their E. huxleyi virus abundance due to stochastic differences in initial conditions. The model shows that heterotrophic bacteria cannot be the only consumers of . A fraction of dissolved must be consumed by phytoplankton to avoid excessive accumulation during the first bloom. The induced blooms increase DMS concentration by 220% on average, until an increase in the abundance of DMS‐consuming bacteria brings DMS concentration back to its pre‐bloom value, after 3 weeks of experiment. Therefore phytoplankton blooms can increase DMS emission to the atmosphere, but only during a transient regime of a few weeks. The model also shows that the DMS yield, production and emission are increased when the coccolithophore bloom is terminated by a viral infection, but decreased if the infection occurs several days before the bloom can reach its maximum.
Chitosan microspheres loaded with WJMSCs facilitate the restoration of ovarian function in CTX‐induced premature ovarian failure mice
Authors: Jiao Yiren , Niu Yongxia , Luo Mingxun , Qiu Yanling , Gao Min , Chen Xiaolin , Huang Sunxing , Zhu Jing , Xiao Lin , Liu Haiying , Huang Junjiu
Published: November 2023

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a complex disease affecting an increasing number of young women. Traditional treatments are limited in low efficacy and side effects. Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs) therapy holds promise in the treatment of POF. However, the clinical application of WJMSCs is hindered by challenges such as low cell viability, significant loss, and poor survival rates. In this study, we prepared three‐dimensional chitosan microspheres (CSM). CSM loading substantial improved the proliferative ability and cell viability of WJMSCs. Furthermore, transplantation of CSM loaded with WJMSCs into ovaries of POF mice increased serum levels of Estradiol (E2) and Anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH), alongside decreased levels of follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH). CSM+WJMSCs transplantation enhanced the number of growth follicles while reduced atresia follicles, and effective alleviated the ovarian fibrosis and apoptosis within the ovarian cortex. CSM also prolonged the residence time of WJMSCs in the ovarian capsule. Moreover, superovulation experiments illustrated that CSM+WJMSCs transplantation enhanced the total number of oocytes and reduced oocyte abnormality rates. Overall, CSM+WJMSCs transplantation promotes follicle development and regeneration, restoring ovarian function by inhibiting ovarian cell apoptosis and reducing levels of fibrosis. This study presents a novel therapeutic strategy that combines biomaterial and mesenchymal stem cells for the clinical treatment of premature ovarian failure.
The relationship between anxiety and COVID‐19‐associated isolation and lifestyle changes in the university community as a result of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic
Authors: Leser Felipe Saceanu , Araújo Ribeiro Mirella , Dalsente Romano da Silva Lucas , Garcia Domingues Renato , Fleming Outeiro Tiago , Boyé Kevin , Coelho Cerqueira Eduardo , Lacerda Carvalho Fabiano , do Carmo Gonçalves Phelippe
Published: November 2023

In 2020, the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus outbreak emerged as a public health emergency. Three years later, we are still assessing the effects caused by the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) and by the lifestyle changes due to prevention measures, like social isolation. Here, we assessed the profile of both the anxiety screening scores and anthropometric variables in the university community, associated with the isolation due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. We analyzed social and epidemiological associated factors for anxiety and weight change to address and better identify the physical and mental conditions aggravated during the pandemic. This is a cross‐sectional study based on the 7‐item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale questionnaire applied virtually to university students and professors in the State of Rio de Janeiro (n = 480). In our population cohort, we showed that the majority of individuals showed moderate to severe anxiety and increased body weight during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The major demographic associated factors for higher anxiety levels were young age, female gender, and low family income. The main modifiable associated factors for both anxiety and weight gain were the negative changes in living habits. In addition, there was a trend toward severe anxiety and greater weight change in people with increased time in social isolation. In view of these results, we suggest that bad habits, adopted during the COVID‐19 pandemic, were the main reason for the high anxiety levels found in the studied population.
A linearized approach for solving differentiable vector optimization problems with vanishing constraints
Authors: Antczak Tadeusz
Published: November 2023

In this paper, two mathematical methods are used for solving a complex multicriteria optimization problem as the considered convex differentiable vector optimization problem with vanishing constraints. First of them is the linearized approach in which, for the original vector optimization problem with vanishing constraints, its associated multiobjective programming problem is constructed at the given feasible solution. Since the aforesaid multiobjective programming problem constructed in the linearized method is linear, one of the existing methods for solving linear vector optimization problems is applied for solving it. Thus, the procedure for solving the considered differentiable vector optimization problems with vanishing constraints is presented in the paper.
Nonlinear parametric vibration analysis of the rotating thin‐walled functionally graded material hyperbolic beams
Authors: Liu Pengpeng , Tang Jie , Jiang Bolong , Li Yinghui
Published: November 2023

This paper presents a nonlinear model for analyzing the behavior of functionally graded material Euler‐Bernoulli thin‐walled beams with varying cross‐sections, while considering periodic perturbations in the rotating speed. The study focuses on an analytical exploration of the natural frequency and amplitude frequency response associated with the nonlinear parametric vibrations within this system. Initially, the governing differential equations for the transverse vibrations of the beams are derived through Hamiltonian principle. Subsequently, the perturbation method is employed to solve the established equations, and Galerkin method is adopted to determine the mode shapes and frequencies. Furthermore, this research extensively examines the influence of significant parameters on the vibration characteristics of the system.
Wire antenna with skew planar wheel structure for generating high‐purity OAM beam
Authors: Mallikharjuna Reddy Y. , Ratna Kumari U. V.
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the generation of an orbital angular momentum (OAM) wave using a wire antenna with a skew planar wheel structure at 5.8 GHz. The wire antenna consists of four arms, each of which behaves like a left‐handed circularly polarized antenna. The orientation and rotation of each arm are adjusted to obtain the desired phase shift, resulting in the generation of an OAM wave. The proposed design is fabricated and tested, and the results demonstrate that the OAM beam produced has high mode purity, with a peak gain of 2.8 dBi, divergence angle of , and high azimuthal symmetry. Both simulated and measured results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed wire antenna in generating an OAM wave. The proposed wire antenna has a wide range of potential applications, including communication systems, remote sensing, and radar imaging. In particular, the azimuthal symmetry of the OAM beam makes it particularly suitable for unmanned aerial vehicle applications.
Feasibility of dynamic T2*‐based oxygen‐enhanced lung MRI at 3T
Authors: Kim Mina , Naish Josephine H. , Needleman Sarah H. , Tibiletti Marta , Taylor Yohn , O'Connor James P. B. , Parker Geoff J. M.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To demonstrate proof‐of‐concept of a T2*‐sensitized oxygen‐enhanced MRI (OE‐MRI) method at 3T by assessing signal characteristics, repeatability, and reproducibility of dynamic lung OE‐MRI metrics in healthy volunteers.

Methods

We performed sequence‐specific simulations for protocol optimisation and acquired free‐breathing OE‐MRI data from 16 healthy subjects using a dual‐echo RF‐spoiled gradient echo approach at 3T across two institutions. Non‐linear registration and tissue density correction were applied. Derived metrics included percent signal enhancement (PSE), ∆R2* and wash‐in time normalized for breathing rate (τ‐nBR). Inter‐scanner reproducibility and intra‐scanner repeatability were evaluated using intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC), repeatability coefficient, reproducibility coefficient, and Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

Simulations and experimental data show negative contrast upon oxygen inhalation, due to substantial dominance of ∆R2* at TE > 0.2 ms. Density correction improved signal fluctuations. Density‐corrected mean PSE values, aligned with simulations, display TE‐dependence, and an anterior‐to‐posterior PSE reduction trend at TE1. ∆R2* maps exhibit spatial heterogeneity in oxygen delivery, featuring anterior‐to‐posterior R2* increase. Mean T2* values across 32 scans were 0.68 and 0.62 ms for pre‐ and post‐O2 inhalation, respectively. Excellent or good agreement emerged from all intra‐, inter‐scanner and inter‐rater variability tests for PSE and ∆R2*. However, ICC values for τ‐nBR demonstrated limited agreement between repeated measures.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate the feasibility of a T2*‐weighted method utilizing a dual‐echo RF‐spoiled gradient echo approach, simultaneously capturing PSE, ∆R2* changes, and oxygen wash‐in during free‐breathing. The excellent or good repeatability and reproducibility on intra‐ and inter‐scanner PSE and ∆R2* suggest potential utility in multi‐center clinical applications.
Disturbance observer‐based PID synchronization control of complex networks with probabilistic interval time‐varying delays and multiple disturbances
Authors: Shi Yujing , Lv Hongyang , Chen Dongyan
Published: November 2023

In this article, the disturbance observer‐based proportional–integral–derivative (PID) control protocol is investigated for synchronization of complex networks with probabilistic interval time‐varying delays and multiple disturbances. For the sake of reducing conservatism, a method of probabilistic interval time‐varying delay is proposed by introducing two certain intervals with known probability distributions. Moreover, two different disturbances are taken into account. One of the disturbances is produced by an exogenous system which acts through the input channel, while the other is usual norm‐bounded disturbance. Simultaneously, a disturbance observer is designed to estimate and compensate the disturbance generated by the exogenous system. By constructing an appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii function, a sufficient criterion is obtained to ensure both the exponential synchronization and prescribed performance index. Finally, the simulation examples are employed to demonstrate the validity of the theoretical results.
Assessment frequency and equity of the property tax: Latest evidence from Philadelphia
Authors: Hou Yilin , Ding Lei , Schwegman David J. , Barca Alaina G.
Published: November 2023

Philadelphia's Actual Valuation Initiative adopted in 2013 creates a unique opportunity for us to test whether improved reassessments at short intervals to true market value improve property tax equity. Based on a difference‐in‐differences framework using parcel‐level data matched with transactions in Philadelphia and 15 comparable cities, this study finds positive evidence on equity outcomes from more regular reassessments. The quality of property assessment improves substantially after 2014, although the extent of improvement varies across communities. Cross‐city comparisons confirm Philadelphia's improvement in the quality and equity of property assessments after adopting the initiative. These results highlight the importance of regular reassessment in places where property values increase quickly, and they shed light on the disparate impacts of reassessment across property value and across neighborhood income, race, and gentrification status. The paper makes the case that the property tax, if designed well, can be an equitable tax instrument.
Image‐guided core‐needle or surgical biopsy for neuroblastoma diagnosis in children: A systematic review and meta‐analysis from the International Society of Pediatric Surgical Oncology (IPSO)
Authors: Pio Luca , Brisse Hervé J. , Alaggio Rita , Zambaiti Elisa , Stenman Jacob , Giuliani Stefano , Montano Valentina , Hinojosa Alexander Siles , Hoel Anders Toel , Pevere Andrea , Abu‐Zaid Ahmed , Franchi‐Abella Stephanie , Abdelhafeez Abdelhafeez H. , Davidoff Andrew M. , Losty Paul D.
Published: November 2023

Background

Image‐guided core‐needle biopsy (IGCNB) is a widely used and valuable clinical tool for tissue diagnosis of pediatric neuroblastoma. However, open surgical biopsy remains common practice even if children undergo more invasive and painful procedures. This review aims to determine the diagnostic accuracy and safety of IGCNBs in pediatric patients with neuroblastoma.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of peer‐reviewed original articles published between 1980 and 2023, by searching “pediatric oncology,” “biopsy,” “interventional radiology,” and “neuroblastoma.” Exclusion criteria were patients older than 18 years, studies concerning non‐neurogenic tumors, case reports, and language other than English. Both the systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Results

A total of 533 abstracts articles were analyzed. Of these, eight retrospective studies met inclusion criteria (490 infants, 270 surgical biopsies [SB], 220 image‐guided biopsies). Tissue adequacy for primary diagnosis (SB: n = 265, 98%; IGCNB: n = 199, 90%; p = .1) and biological characterization (SB: n = 186, 95%; IGCNB: n = 109, 89%; p = .15) was similar with both biopsy techniques, while intraoperative transfusion rate (SB: n = 51, 22%; IGCNB: n = 12, 6%; p = .0002) and complications (%) (SB: n = 58, 21%; IGCNB: n = 14, 6%; p = .005) were higher with surgical biopsy. Length of stay was similar in both groups; however, no additional data about concurrent diagnostic or treatment procedures were available in the analyzed studies.

Conclusions

IGCNB is a safe and effective strategic approach for diagnostic workup of NB and should be considered in preferance to SB wherever possible.
Damage evolution monitoring and failure level evaluation of composite bolted joints by MXene/CNTs sensors
Authors: Zhang Lu , Zhang Binbin , Lu Shaowei , Jiang Xiaowei , Li Wei , Liu Xingmin , Ma Chengkun , Wang Xiaoqiang
Published: November 2023

The composite bolted joints are the weak points of overall structure, lacking an effective and accurate monitoring method. In this paper, a novel MXene/CNTs film sensor with high sensitivity and stability was synthesized for the damage evolution monitoring of composite bolted joints. The correlation between the response signals of the sensors and the mechanical behaviors of the composite structures is established. Based on this research, the damage evolution monitoring and failure level evaluation of composite bolted joints were studied. The damage properties of the composite bolted joints can be reflected in real‐time by the resistance change rates of the sensors. The experimental results show that the failure level of composite bolted joints can be divided into four levels (I‐II‐III‐IV) according to the resistance change rates of sensors. Especially when the damage extended to the III stage, the surged from 0.3 to 0.75. The time point of this step signal occurred about 1 min earlier than the time point of max bearing strength, which can effectively warn the occurrence of structural failure.

Highlights

Research used high‐sensitivity MXene/CNTs sensor to monitor bolt structure

Sensor array can be integrated with the composite bolted structure

Structural damage of composite bolted joints was accurately monitored

Failure level evaluation of composite bolted structure was achieved
Styrene–butadiene rubber‐based nanocomposites toughened by carbon nanotubes for wide and linear electromechanical sensing applications
Authors: Alam Md Najib , Kumar Vineet , Lee Dong‐Joo , Park Sang‐Shin
Published: November 2023

The contribution from specific interactions between rubber and filler sometimes plays a crucial role in the mechanical reinforcement and electromechanical sensitivities of rubber composites. This research explores the physical, mechanical, and electromechanical properties of styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Mechanical, thermodynamic, and scanning electron microscopy studies reveal that CNTs primarily enhance the mechanical properties through physical interactions with the rubber. Notably, π‐stacking interactions between the aromatic π‐electrons in SBR and the delocalized π‐electrons in CNTs contribute to significant improvements in mechanical strength. For instance, adding 4 phr (per hundred grams of rubber) of CNTs results in an impressive 871% increase in fracture toughness compared to unfilled rubber. These composites also exhibit remarkable stress and strain improvements even with small amounts of CNTs, making them suitable for robust strain sensing applications. Specifically, the composite containing 3 phr of CNTs demonstrates superior strain sensitivity (2.87 < GF < 48.62), a wide detection range (0% < Δε < 187%), and excellent linearity (0.927 < R2 < 0.995). Lower CNT content enhances sensitivities but reduces overall linearity, while higher CNT content improves linearity but decreases sensitivity. Moreover, these composites perform exceptionally well under compressive forces, even at a 0.5 N applied force. Given their excellent response to mechanical forces and strain, these composites hold promise for applications like electronic skin, strain sensors, and energy‐harvesting devices.

Highlights

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were used as reinforcing fillers in SBR composites.

CNTs significantly improve physical, mechanical, and electrical properties.

Primarily, π‐stacking may be involved in enhancing these properties.

The composites exhibit strong strain and force‐sensing capabilities.

These composites could be valuable for wearable electronics in the future.
Prenatal diagnosis and postnatal outcome of closed spinal dysraphism
Authors: Bedei Ivonne , Krispin Eyal , Sanz Cortes Magdalena , Lombaard Hennie , Zemet Roni , Whitehead William E. , Belfort Michael A. , Huisman Thierry A. G. M.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate the prenatal diagnosis of closed dysraphism (CD) and its correlation with postnatal findings and neonatal adverse outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study including pregnancies diagsnosed with fetal CD by prenatal ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at a single tertiary center between September 2011 and July 2021.

Results

CD was diagnosed prenatally and confirmed postnatally in 12 fetuses. The mean gestational age of prenatal imaging was 24.2 weeks, in 17% the head circumference was ≤fifth percentile and in 25% the cerebellar diameter was ≤fifth percentile. US findings included banana sign in 17%, and lemon sign in 33%. On MRI, posterior fossa anomalies were seen in 33% of cases, with hindbrain herniation below the foramen magnum in two cases. Mean clivus‐supraocciput angle (CSA) was 74°. Additional anomalies outside the CNS were observed in 50%. Abnormal foot position was demonstrated prenatally in 17%. Neurogenic bladder was present in 90% of patients after birth.

Conclusion

Arnold Chiari II malformation and impaired motor function can be present on prenatal imaging of fetuses with CD and may be associated with a specific type of CD. Prenatal distinction of CD can be challenging. Associated extra CNS anomalies are frequent and the rate of neurogenic urinary tract dysfunction is high.
Versatile implied open‐circuit voltage imaging method and its application in monolithic tandem solar cells
Authors: Fischer Oliver , Bui Anh Dinh , Schindler Florian , Macdonald Daniel , Glunz Stefan W. , Nguyen Hieu T. , Schubert Martin C.
Published: November 2023

As the efficiency of perovskite silicon tandem solar cells is increasing, the upscaling for industrial production is coming into focus. Spatially resolved, quantitative, fast, and reliable contactless measurement techniques are demanded for quality assurance and to pinpoint the cause of performance losses in perovskite silicon tandem solar cells. In this publication, we present a measurement method based on spectrally integrated photoluminescence (PL) imaging to extract subcell‐selective implied open‐circuit (
) images from monolithic perovskite silicon tandem solar cells. We validate the approach using spectrally resolved absolute PL measurements based on an integrating sphere for the perovskite top cell and PL‐calibrated carrier lifetime images for the silicon bottom cell. Additionally,
measurements of solar cells with low contact losses are used to validate the new measurement technique. We find a good agreement of the
images with the validating measurements with a maximum deviation of well below 1% compared to the validation measurements.
Knowledge, attitude, and practices among caregivers of children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Tiwari Surya Kant , Sharma Rimple , Joshi Poonam , Lodha Rakesh , Kabra Sushil Kumar
Published: November 2023

Background

Caregivers have crucial role in the care of the children with Cystic Fibrosis (CF), but there is limited knowledge about their knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding chronic disease. This pilot study aimed to validate a self‐developed KAP questionnaire for caregivers of young children with CF in India and determine factors associated with KAP.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 95 caregivers of children with CF attending the specialty clinic of the pediatric outpatient department (OPD) in Northern India. Participants possessing certain characteristics such as willingness to participate and ability to understand Hindi or English language were enrolled in the study. Caregivers of children reported to the OPD with acute exacerbation requiring immediate hospitalization were excluded from the study.

Results

The self‐developed KAP questionnaire had good content validity (CVI‐ 0.87−1.0) and internal consistency (Cronbach's α coefficient = 0.70, 0.71, 0.75 respectively). The majority of participants belonged to the Good KAP group (85.3%), while the remaining were in the Poor KAP group (14.7%). A χ2 test showed that KAP clusters vary significantly with sociodemographic variables like gender, marital status, educational status and monthly family income (p < .05). A weak negative correlation was found between knowledge and attitude scores in the Good KAP group (p < .001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the KAP of the caregivers was significantly influenced by knowledge related to clinical manifestation and complications, and attitude.

Conclusion

All three sections of the KAP tool demonstrated good content validity and internal consistency. Caregivers had good knowledge, a positive attitude, and appropriate practices related to CF. However, targeted interventions are necessary to address specific areas for improvement, particularly for male caregivers with lower educational levels belonging to poor socioeconomic strata.
Home‐spirometry exacerbation profiles in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Bouteleux Benoit , Beaufils Fabien , Fayon Michael , Bui Stéphanie
Published: November 2023

Background

Pulmonary exacerbations (PEx) are strong predictors of respiratory disease progression in children with cystic fibrosis (CwCF) and may be associated with persistent decreased lung function after acute management. Telemonitoring devices can be used for early detection and monitoring of PEx, but its utility is debated.

Research Question

Which symptoms and telemonitoring spirometry characterics are related to outcome dynamics following initial PEx management?

Methods

This retrospective study included CwCF followed at Bordeaux University Hospital, France. All severe PEx episodes treated with intravenous (IV) antibiotics (ATB) between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2021 in CwCF using home telemonitoring were analyzed. Symptoms and home spirometry data were collected 45 days before and up to 60 days after each IV ATB course. We defined three response profiles based on terciles of baseline forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) recovery.

Results

A total of 346 IV ATB courses for PEx were administered to 65 CwCF during the study period. The drop in FEV1 became significant 8 days before IV ATB initiation. Forty‐one percent of IV ATB courses failed to restore baseline FEV1. The magnitude of FEV1 drop and a greater delay in the initiation of treatment correlated with a low response level. On the 14th day of the IV treatment, a FEV1 recovery less than 94% of baseline was associated with a nonresponder profile.

Interpretation

Home spirometry may facilitate the early recognition of PEx to implement earlier interventions. This study also provides an outcome lung function threshold which identifies low responders to IV ATB.
Reliability analysis of a loading dependent system with cascading failures considering overloads
Authors: Zhao Yixin , Sun Tianqi , Liu Yiliu
Published: November 2023

In many production facilities, multiple components have to work together to share the overall workload on the entire system, leading to loading dependence and higher vulnerability to cascading failures. Additionally, overloading of one component can expedite the failures of others, exemplifying another form of loading dependence. In this study, we develop a system reliability analysis model for loading dependent systems considering overloads based on the Multi‐state CASCADE model. By incorporating a time variable, the tailor‐made model is able to characterize the duration of each generation in the cascading process, along with the cumulative time of the whole cascading process until the system collapse. A combination of analytical and simulation techniques is then employed to investigate how various potential influencing factors of loading dependence and cascading processes influence the system reliability. The results demonstrate that the effectiveness of proposed method in estimating the system reliability of the loading dependent system considering overloads. Such findings can improve the decision‐makings of reliability prediction, system design, and maintenance optimization, especially in scenarios involving the loading dependent with cascading failures.
Distributed observer‐based tracking of multi‐agent systems with bounded input amplitudes and rates
Authors: Ke Jin , Xu Tao , Zeng Jianping , Duan Zhisheng
Published: November 2023

This work solves the distributed tracking problem for multi‐agent systems with bounded inputs over directed networks. Unlike existing results focusing only on the input amplitude saturation, both input amplitude and input rate saturation are taken into account, which are more challenging due to the coupled evolutions of input amplitudes and input rates. Firstly, relative disturbance observers are developed using relative state measurements to estimate the relative disturbances, where the estimation errors converge to zero within a finite time horizon. Subsequently, distributed tracking error observers are proposed by means of a novel bounded function to estimate the tracking errors, where the estimation errors will converge to zero. Then, an observer‐based saturated control strategy is designed to achieve the distributed tracking objective. Finally, simulations of DC‐DC buck converters tracking and vehicles formation are provided to verify the effectiveness of the control scheme.