bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and biomechanical effectiveness of foot‐ankle exercise programs and weight‐bearing activity in people with diabetes and neuropathy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: van Netten Jaap J. , Sacco Isabel C. N. , Lavery Lawrence , Monteiro‐Soares Matilde , Paton Joanne , Rasmussen Anne , Raspovic Anita , Bus Sicco A.
Published: May 2023

Background

Most interventions to prevent foot ulcers in people with diabetes do not seek to reverse the foot abnormalities that led to the ulcer. Foot‐ankle exercise programs target these clinical and biomechanical factors, such as protective sensation and mechanical stress. Multiple RCTs exist investigating the effectiveness of such programs, but these have never been summarised in a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

We searched the available scientific literature in PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane databases and trial registries for original research studies on foot‐ankle exercise programs for people with diabetes at risk of foot ulceration. Both controlled and non‐controlled studies were eligible for selection. Two independent reviewers assessed the risk of bias of controlled studies and extracted data. Meta‐analysis (using Mantel‐Haenszel's statistical method and random effect models) was performed when >2 RCTs were available that met our criteria. Evidence statements, including the certainty of evidence, were formulated according to GRADE.

Results

We included a total of 29 studies, of which 16 were RCTs. A foot‐ankle exercise programme of 8–12 weeks duration for people at risk of foot ulceration results in: (a) no increase or decrease risk of foot ulceration or pre‐ulcerative lesion (Risk Ratio (RR): 0.56 (95% CI: 0.20–1.57)); (b) no increase or decrease risk of adverse events (RR: 1.04 (95% CI: 0.65–1.67)); (c) not increase or decrease barefoot peak plantar pressure during walking (Mean Difference (MD): −6.28 kPa (95% CI: −69.90–57.34)); (d) no increase or decrease health‐related quality of life (no meta‐analysis possible). Likely results in increases in ankle joint and first metatarsalphalangeal joint range of motion (MD: 1.49° (95% CI: −0.28–3.26)) may result in improvements in neuropathy signs and symptoms (MD: −1.42 (95% CI: −2.95‐0.12)), may result in a small increase in daily steps in some people (MD: 131 steps (95% CI: ‐492‐754)), and may not increase or decrease foot and ankle muscle strength and function (no meta‐analysis was possible).

Conclusions

In people at risk of foot ulceration, a foot‐ankle exercise programme of 8–12 weeks duration may not prevent or cause diabetes‐related foot ulceration. However, such a programme likely improves the ankle joint and first metatarsalphalangeal joint range of motion and neuropathy signs and symptoms. Further research is needed to strengthen the evidence base, and should also focus on the effects of specific components of foot‐ankle exercise programs.
Maternal provisioning of an obligate symbiont in a sponge
Authors: Carrier Tyler J. , Schmittmann Lara , Jung Sabrina , Pita Lucía , Hentschel Ute
Published: May 2023

The transmission of microbes from mother to offspring is an ancient, advantageous, and widespread feature of metazoan life history. Despite this, little is known about the quantitative strategies taken to maintain symbioses across generations. The quantity of maternal microbes that is provided to each offspring through vertical transmission could theoretically be stochastic (no trend), consistent (an optimal range is allocated), or provisioned (a trade‐off with fecundity). Examples currently come from animals that release free‐living eggs (oviparous) and suggest that offspring are provided a consistent quantity of symbionts. The quantity of maternal microbes that is vertically transmitted in other major reproductive strategies has yet to be assessed. We used the brooding (viviparous) spongeHalichondria paniceato test whether offspring receive quantitatively similar numbers of maternal microbes. We observed thatH. paniceahas a maternal pool of the obligate symbiontCandidatusHalichondribacter symbioticus and that this maternal pool is provisioned proportionally to reproductive output and allometrically by offspring size. This pattern was not observed for the total bacterial community. Experimental perturbation by antibiotics could not reduce the abundance ofCa.H. symbioticus in larvae, while the total bacterial community could be reduced without affecting the ability of larvae to undergo metamorphosis. A trade‐off between offspring size and number is, by definition, maternal provisioning and parallel differences inCa.H. symbioticus abundance would suggest that this obligate symbiont is also provisioned.
Exploring the Coordination Properties of Phosphonium‐Functionalized N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes Towards Gold
Authors: De Marco Riccardo , Giuso Valerio , Achard Thierry , Rancan Marzio , Baron Marco , Armelao Lidia , Mauro Matteo , Bellemin‐Laponnaz Stéphane , Tubaro Cristina
Published: May 2023

Gold(I) complexes with N‐heterocyclic carbene ligands functionalized with a pendant phosphonium moiety were synthesized by simple procedures. In particular, the simple addition of LiBr salt in the reaction media allows the formation of the NHC gold(I) mononuclear complexes, whilst in the absence of excess bromide ions the deprotonation of the methylene group in alpha position to the phosphonium group occurs, allowing the isolation of the dinuclear complexes with two C,C‐bridging NHC‐phosphonium ylide ligands. The complexes were characterized in solution with NMR spectroscopy and ESI‐MS spectrometry, as well as in the solid state by means of single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Mononuclear gold(III) species were also isolated by Br2 oxidative addition to the mononuclear gold(I) species and fully characterized. Preliminary results of the biological effects on MCF7 cancer cells are also reported.
Synthesis and Structures of Ruthena‐octahydrotetraborane Complexes
Authors: Ahmad Asif , Saha Suvam , Zafar Mohammad , Cordier Marie , Ghosh Sundargopal
Published: May 2023

The reactivity ofκ2‐N,S‐chelated ruthenium borate complexes, [Ru(PPh3)(κ2‐N,S‐(NC7H4S2)Ru{κ3‐H,S,S′‐H2B (NC7H4S2)2}] (1 a) and [Ru(PPh3)(κ2‐N,S‐(NC5H4S){κ3‐H,S,S′‐H2B(NC5H4S)2}] (1 b) with monoboranes have been explored. The prolonged room temperature reaction of [Ru(PPh3){κ2‐N,S‐(NC7H4S2)}{κ3‐H,S,S′‐H2B(NC7H4S2)2}],1 awith an excess of [BH3 ⋅ THF] led to the formation of hydrogen‐rich complex,arachno‐[PPh3(κ2‐B3H8)Ru{κ3‐H,S,S′‐H2B(NC7H4S2)2] (2). In a similar fashion, the isomeric ruthenatetraborane complexes of [Ru(PPh3)(κ2‐N,S‐(B3H8){κ3‐H,S,S′‐H2B(NC5H4S)2}],4and5were isolated from the room temperature reaction of1 bwith [BH3 ⋅ THF]. In complex2, the borate ligand, [H2B(NC5H4S)2] and the PPh3occupy theendoandexosites of the butterfly‐shaped RuB3core, respectively. In contrast, the borate unit [H2B(NC5H4S)2] in4sits on theexoposition of the butterfly core, while the phosphine ligand occupies theendosite. Multinuclear spectroscopic analyses were done to characterize all new complexes and the structures were further confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to probe into the bonding modes of these complexes.
Atypical “Masked” Frustrated Lewis Pair Character in a Geminal‐Linked Phosphine‐Borane
Authors: Dokken Hannah J. , Frenette Brandon L. , Ferguson Michael J. , Rivard Eric
Published: May 2023

We report the synthesis and reactivity of the geminal‐linked fluorene‐derived P/B frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) iPr2P(C13H8)BCy2 (1). Compound 1 displays anomalous behavior towards small molecules, acting as a “masked” FLP. This behavior stems from significant polarization of the B−C(fluorene) bond in 1, as identified by density functional theory (DFT) computations. We exploit this B−C bond polarity through reactions with PhPCl2, H3N ⋅ BH3, and iPrNH2, demonstrating P−Cl and N−H bond activation, respectively.
Quantifying biodiversity impacts of livestock using life‐cycle perspectives
Authors: McClelland Shelby C , Haddix Jill D , Azad Shefali , Boughton Elizabeth H , Boughton Raoul K , Miller Ryan S , Swain Hilary M , Dillon Jasmine A
Published: May 2023

Biodiversity impacts are rarely included in systems analyses of livestock production. We piloted two approaches toward quantifying biodiversity impacts, pressure‐state‐response (PSR) and potential species loss (PSL), at a cow–calf operation in Florida for which extensive environmental data were available. Using these approaches, we compared livestock production on two vegetation types, semi‐native pasture (SNP) and improved pasture (IMP), and we found fewer deleterious effects on biodiversity associated with SNP (characterized by low stocking rates and no fertilizer) than with IMP, as evidenced by a lower PSL and greater biotic integrity under PSR. Both approaches agreed in the direction of the outcome, but we argue that, when possible, they should be applied complementarily to inform both absolute and per‐unit product biodiversity impacts of livestock production. This research demonstrates how to incorporate biodiversity into life‐cycle perspectives of livestock sustainability assessments when data availability varies, supporting the expansion of multi‐metric, holistic evaluations that are absent from most livestock system analyses.
Commodity network and predictable returns
Authors: Xu Qi , Ye Yang
Published: May 2023

We investigate the lead–lag relation in the cross‐section of commodity returns. We estimate dynamic and directional networks for 32 commodities and then construct a new predictor termed commodity network momentum, exploring cross‐commodity information spillover. Network momentum positively and significantly predicts future commodity returns, controlling for existing commodity characteristics. Unlike previous lead–lag studies, the predictive relation is consistent with overreaction rather than underreaction. The relation is stronger for attention‐grabbing commodities and commodities with lottery‐like properties and with higher limits to arbitrage. Extrapolation from connected commodities contributes to this predictive relation. Overall, our paper highlights the role of information spillover in commodity return predictability.
Neonatal osteoblastic tumor with a novel PTBP1::FOSB fusion
Authors: Blackburn Patrick R. , Douglass David P. , Ramakrishnaiah Raghu H. , Montgomery Corey O. , Shi Zonggao , Wheeler David A. , Koo Selene C.
Published: May 2023

Congenital/neonatal bone neoplasms are extremely rare. We present the case of a patient with a neonatal bone tumor of the fibula that had osteoblastic differentiation and a novel PTBP1::FOSB fusion. FOSB fusions are described in several different tumor types, including osteoid osteoma and osteoblastoma; however, these tumors typically present in the second or third decade of life, with case reports as young as 4 months of age. Our case expands the spectrum of congenital/neonatal bone lesions. The initial radiologic, histologic, and molecular findings supported the decision for close clinical follow‐up rather than more aggressive intervention. Since the time of diagnosis, this tumor has undergone radiologic regression without treatment.
Evaluation of apathy among institutionalized older persons: Its mediating role between cognitive functioning and lack of awareness
Authors: Farrié Audric Joël , Jacus Jean‐Pierre , Cuervo‐Lombard Christine Vanessa
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The main objective of this study was to determine the directions of the relationships between apathy, cognitive deficits and lack of awareness.

Methods

One hundred and twenty‐one older persons living in nursing homes, aged between 65 and 99 years old, participated in the study. Cognitive functioning, autonomy, depressive and anxious symptoms, general self‐efficacy, self‐esteem and apathy were evaluated through tests and questionnaires. Lack of awareness was calculated using the patient‐caregiver discrepancy method. The sample was divided into two groups (n1 = 60, n2 = 61) depending on cognitive functioning level (Dementia Rating Scale < median score: 120). We first explored the characteristics of each group. Then, we compared the mode of evaluation of apathy. Finally, we investigated the direction of relationships by applying mediation analyses.

Results

Older persons in the low cognitive functioning group were less autonomous, had a lower cognitive functioning level, higher caregiver‐rated apathy and higher lack of awareness than the high cognitive functioning group (ps < 0.05). Evaluation differences were found only in the low cognition group. Caregiver‐rated apathy totally mediated the relationship between cognitive functioning (predictor) and lack of awareness (dependent variable) for the whole sample (90%) and for the low cognitive functioning group (100%).

Conclusions

Cognitive deficits should be taken into account when evaluating apathy. Interventions should combine cognition training and emotion intervention to reduce lack of awareness. Future research should develop a therapy dedicated to apathy among older persons without pathologies.
The role of long‐ and short‐run correlation networks in international portfolio selection
Authors: Li Mengting , Xu Qifa , Jiang Cuixia , Liu Yezheng
Published: May 2023

By considering the effect of long‐ and short‐run correlation (LS) networks, we propose an LS network‐augmented parametric portfolio selection model (LSNA‐PP). First, we combine the dynamic conditional correlation‐mixed data sampling (DCC‐MIDAS) model with the planar maximally filtered graph (PMFG) method to construct LS networks and extract network topological characteristics. Second, we design portfolio weights as a function of these topological characteristics to construct the LSNA‐PP model. Third, we apply the model to construct an international portfolio from 2010 to 2021. The empirical results illustrate the efficacy of the LSNA‐PP model in two ways. First, the LSNA‐PP model clarifies the economic interpretation of topological characteristics in portfolio selection, such as the positive effect of the long‐run correlation network and the negative effect of the short‐run correlation network on the weights. Second, the LSNA‐PP model performs well in terms of return expectations, risk diversification, and attractive risk‐adjusted returns, which are especially useful for stakeholders such as regulators, managers, and investors.
Saying thanks and meaning it: Expressing gratitude for social gain
Authors: Kearns Peter O. , Schaffer Emily B.
Published: May 2023

People sometimes give thanks as a true expression of their feeling but also sometimes because they know gratitude expression helps to make a certain social impression. That is, some gratitude is expressed because of intrinsic motivations or extrinsic motivations. Such motivations affect the outcomes of behaviour. The present work assessed gratitude, trait tendency to manage socially desirable expressions and well‐being across two studies (combined n = 398). Motivations to express gratitude were also measured and impression management goals were manipulated in Study 2. Results show that gratitude expression is highest when people want to make a good impression and extrinsic motives to express gratitude can moderate the relationship between gratitude and well‐being. Implications for the measurement of gratitude and theoretical understanding of gratitude's social function are discussed.
A precise and timely graph‐based approach to identify SARS Covid19 infection from medical imaging data using IsoCovNet
Authors: Bagwan Faraz , Pise Nitin
Published: May 2023

More than 100 million individuals have been infected by the COVID19 virus since 2019. Even if the vaccination procedure has already begun, it will take time to attain an adequate supply. There have been several efforts by computer scientists to filter COVID19 from CXR or CT scans due to the disease's extensive prevalence. These patients' CT and CXR scans are utilized to identify COVID19 using IsoCovNet, a Graph‐Isomorphic‐Network, that is, GIN‐based model for detecting COVID19. A GIN‐based design dictates that our suggested model only takes data in the form of graphs. At the outset, the input image undergoes a conversion into an unordered network, that is, a graph that considers only the links between elements rather than the entire image. This approach significantly reduces the model's processing time. We verified the effectiveness of our proposed IsoCovNet network by using four datasets, which consist of both x‐ray and CT‐scan images, from five standard sources that are publicly available on platforms like Kaggle and GitHub. The network achieved an accuracy of 99.51% on binary datasets and a higher accuracy of 99.84% on the multi‐classification task of detecting Covid19.
Monkeypox: Virology, laboratory diagnosis and therapeutic approach
Authors: Siami Haleh , Asghari Arghavan , Parsamanesh Negin
Published: May 2023

Monkeypox infection outbreaks have been observed sporadically in Africa, usually as a result of interaction with wildlife reservoirs. The genomes of the new strain range in size from 184.7 to 198.0 kb and are identified with 143–214 open reading frames. Viral cores are rapidly carried on microtubules away from the cell's perimeter and deeper into the cytoplasm once the virus and cell membranes fuse. Depending on the kind of exposure, patients with monkeypox may experience a febrile prodrome 5–13 days after exposure, which frequently includes lymphadenopathy, malaise, headaches, and muscle aches. A different diagnostic approach is available for monkeypox, including histopathological analysis, electron microscopy, immunoassays, polymerase chain reaction, genome sequencing, microarrays, loop‐mediated isothermal amplification technology and CRISPR (i.e., “clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats”). There are currently no particular, clinically effective treatments available for the monkeypox virus. An initial treatment is cidofovir. As a monophosphate nucleotide analog, cidofovir is transformed into an inhibitor of viral DNA polymerase by cellular kinases, which is analogous to cidofovir's function in inhibiting viral DNA synthesis. The European Medicine Agency and the Food and Drug Administration have both granted permission for IMVAMUNE, a replication‐deficient, attenuated third‐generation modified vaccinia Ankara vaccine, to be used for the prevention of smallpox and monkeypox in adults.
Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Diffusion‐Weighted MR Imaging and Venous Tumor Thrombus Consistency in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Jian , Wang Meifeng , Ding Xiaohui , Fu Yonggui , Peng Cheng , Kang Huanhuan , Guo Huiping , Bai Xu , Huang Qingbo , Zhou Shaopeng , Zhang Xiaojing , Liu Kan , Li Lin , Ye Huiyi , Zhang Xu , Ma Xin , Wang Haiyi
Published: May 2023

Background

Venous tumor thrombus (VTT) consistency of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is an important consideration in nephrectomy plus thrombectomy. However, evaluation of VTT consistency through preoperative MR imaging is lacking.

Purpose

To evaluate VTT consistency of RCC through intravoxel incoherent motion‐diffusion weighted imaging (IVIM‐DWI) derived parameters (Dt, Dp, f, and ADC) and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

One hundred and nineteen patients (aged 55.8 ± 11.5 years, 85 male) with histologically‐proven RCC and VTT who underwent radical resection.

Field Strength/Sequences

3.0‐T; two‐dimensional single‐shot diffusion‐weighted echo planar imaging sequence at 9 b‐values (0–800 s/mm2).

Assessment

IVIM parameters and ADC values of the primary tumor and the VTT were calculated. The VTT consistency (friable vs. solid) was determined through intraoperative findings of two urologists. The accuracy of VTT consistency classification based on the individual IVIM parameters of primary tumors and of VTT, and based on models combining parameters, was assessed. Type of operation, intra‐operative blood loss, and operation length were recorded.

Statistical Tests

Shapiro–Wilk test; Mann–Whitney U test; Student's t‐test; Chi‐square test; Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Statistical significance level was P < 0.05.

Results

Of the enrolled 119 patients, 33 patients (27.7%) had friable VTT. Patients with friable VTT were significantly more likely to experience open surgery, have significantly more intraoperative blood loss, and significantly longer operative duration. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) values of Dt of the primary tumor and VTT in classifying VTT consistency were 0.758 (95% CI 0.671–0.832) and 0.712 (95% CI 0.622–0.792), respectively. The AUC value of the model combining Dp and Dt of VTT was 0.800 (95% CI 0.717–0.868). Furthermore, the AUC of the model combining Dp and Dt of VTT and Dt of the primary tumor was 0.886 (95% CI 0.814–0.937).

Conclusion

IVIM‐derived parameters had the potential to predict VTT consistency of RCC.

Evidence Level: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2
Clinical validation of novel dried blood spot based collecting device using serum separation for measuring SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies
Authors: Schuurmans Stekhoven Sophie Jolien , Winkel Kirsten Gerdien te , Souverein Dennis , Sondermeijer Brigitte Marlene , van Houten Marianne A. , Euser Sjoerd M. , van Lelyveld Steven Ferdinand Lodewijk
Published: May 2023

Accurate surveillance of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) incidence includes large‐scale antibody testing of the population. Current testing methods require collection of venous blood samples by a healthcare worker, or dried blood spot (DBS) collection using finger prick, however this might have some logistic and processing limitations. We investigated the performance of the Ser‐Col device for detecting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) antibodies using a finger prick: DBS‐like collection system that includes a lateral flow paper for serum separation and allows for automated large scale analysis. For this prospective study, adult patients with moderate to severe COVID‐19 were included 6 weeks post‐symptom onset. Healthy, adult volunteers were included as a negative control group. Venous blood and capillary blood using the Ser‐Col device were collected and the Wantai SARS‐CoV‐2 total antibody ELISA was performed on all samples. We included 50 subjects in the study population and 49 in the control group. Results obtained with venous blood versus Ser‐Col capillary blood showed 100% sensitivity (95% CI: 0.93−1.00) and 100% specificity (95% CI: 0.93−1.00). Our study shows the feasibility of SARS‐CoV‐2 total antibody screening using a standardized DBS technique with semiautomated processing for large scale analysis.
VARMA model parameterization using MLLE approach for intraday wind power forecasting application
Authors: Vijayvargia Archita , Sharma Kailash Chand , Bhakar Rohit
Published: May 2023

Accurate intraday wind power forecasting (WPF) is required by system operators to mitigate challenges arising from small‐scale grid integration of intermittent wind power. This low‐level integration of wind energy into the system urges quality deterministic forecast. Multivariate statistical models considering spatiotemporal correlations are commonly used for such WPF. However, prudent parameterization is a necessity to improve deterministic forecasts even in smaller datasets. This article proposes a computationally efficient vector autoregressive moving average (VARMA) based intraday WPF model that uses the novel maximum log‐likelihood estimation (MLLE) approach to estimate the best‐fit model parameters. MLLE approach reduces the spatiotemporal fitting error by approximately 15% with computational time deduction by more than 25%. Furthermore, an advanced accuracy in parameter estimation (AIPE) technique supports the MLLE approach to obtain the optimal training window length for computing distribution parameters with narrow confidence intervals. Proposed centralized forecast model is implemented on a group of Wind Farms (WFs) in SE Australia. Pre‐processing of wind power generation data is ensured using the Yeo–Johnson transformation and stationarity concept. Proposed model is accurate and computationally efficient as compared to benchmark models in terms of accuracy and computational time. An appreciated forecast quality is achieved using the proposed model having only 0.20 MW and 0.29 MW mean normalized RMSE for 3 and 10 WFs studies, respectively. Possible applicability of the proposed model includes an overall improvement in intraday decision‐making of wind energy producers and system operators.
The spatiotemporal electrogram dispersion ablation targeting rotors is more effective for elderly patients than non‐elderly population
Authors: Sakata Kensuke , Tanaka Tomomi , Yamashita Soichiro , Kobayashi Masanori , Ito Mitsuaki , Yamashiro Kohei
Published: May 2023

Background

Modulating atrial fibrillation (AF) drivers has been proposed as one of the effective ablation strategies for non‐paroxysmal AF (non‐PAF). However, the optimal non‐PAF ablation strategy is still under debate because the exact mechanisms of AF persistence including focal activity and/or rotational activity, are not well‐understood. Recently, spatiotemporal electrogram dispersion (STED) assumed to indicate rotors in the form of rotational activity is proposed as an effective target for non‐PAF ablation. We aimed to clarify the effectiveness of STED ablation for modulating AF drivers.

Methods

STED ablation plus pulmonary vein isolation was applied in 161 consecutive non‐PAF patients not undergoing previous ablation. STED areas within the entire left and right atria were identified and ablated during AF. After the procedures, the STED ablation's acute and long‐term outcomes were investigated.

Results

(1) Despite a more effective acute outcome of the STED ablation for both AF termination and non‐inducibility of atrial tachyarrhythmias (ATAs), Kaplan–Meier curves showed that the 24‐month freedom ratio from ATAs was 49%, which resulted from the higher recurrence ratio of atrial tachycardia (AT) rather than AF. (2) A multivariate analysis showed that the determinant of ATA recurrences was only a non‐elderly age, not long‐standing persistent AF, and an enlarged left atrium, which were conventionally considered as key factors.

Conclusions

STED ablation targeting rotors was effective in elderly non‐PAF patients. Therefore, the main mechanism of AF persistency and the component of the fibrillatory conduction might vary between elders and non‐elders. However, we should be careful about post‐ablation ATs following substrate modification.
Inter‐joint coordination variability is associated with pain severity and joint loading in persons with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Huang Chun‐Hao , James Khara , Lanois Corey , Corrigan Patrick , Yen Sheng‐Che , Stefanik Joshua
Published: May 2023

As the lower extremity is a linked‐joint system, the contribution of movements at the hip and ankle, in addition to the knee, to gait patterns should be considered for persons with knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, the relationships of joint coordination variability to OA symptoms, particularly knee pain, and joint loading is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of joint coordination variability to knee pain severity and joint loading in persons with knee OA. Thirty‐four participants with knee OA underwent gait analysis. Vector coding was used to assess coordination variability during the early, mid, and late stance phase. Hip–knee coupling angle variability (CAV) during midstance was associated with Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) pain (r = −0.50, p = 0.002) and Visual Analog Scale pain (r = 0.36, p = 0.04). Knee–ankle CAV during midstance was associated with KOOS pain (r = −0.34, p = 0.05). Hip–knee CAV during early and midstance were associated with knee flexion moment (KFM) impulses (r = −0.46, p = 0.01). Knee–ankle CAV during early and midstance were associated with peak KFM (r = −0.51, p < 0.01; r = −0.70, p < 0.01). Moreover, knee–ankle CAV during early, mid, and late stance phase were associated with KFM impulses (r = −0.53, p < 0.01; r = −0.70, p < 0.01; r = −0.54, p < 0.01). These findings suggest that joint coordination variability may be a factor that influences pain and knee joint loading in persons with knee OA. Statement of Clinical Significance: Movement coordination of the hip, knee, and ankle should be considered in the clinical management and future research related to knee OA.
Moderate mechanical stimulation antagonizes inflammation of annulus fibrosus cells through YAP‐mediated suppression of NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Wang Huan , Zhang Weidong , Cai Yan , Guo Qianping , Pan Liangbin , Chu Genglei , Chen Jianquan , Yuan Zhangqin , Li Bin
Published: May 2023

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a leading cause of low back pain. The inflammatory responses caused by aberrant mechanical loading are one of the major factors leading to annulus fibrosus (AF) degeneration and IDD. Previous studies have suggested that moderate cyclic tensile strain (CTS) can regulate anti‐inflammatory activities of AF cells (AFCs), and Yes‐associated protein (YAP) as a mechanosensitive coactivator senses diverse types of biomechanical stimuli and translates them into biochemical signals controlling cell behaviors. However, it remains poorly understood whether and how YAP mediates the effect of mechanical stimuli on AFCs. In this study, we aimed to investigate the exact effects of different CTS on AFCs as well as the role of YAP signaling involving in it. Our results found that 5% CTS inhibited the inflammatory response and promoted cell growth through inhibiting the phosphorylation of YAP and nuclear localization of NF‐κB, while 12% CTS had a significant proinflammatory effect with the inactivation of YAP activity and the activation of NF‐κB signaling in AFCs. Furthermore, moderate mechanical stimulation may alleviate the inflammatory reaction of intervertebral discs through YAP‐mediated suppression of NF‐κB signaling in vivo. Therefore, moderate mechanical stimulation may serve as a promising therapeutic approach for the prevention and treatment of IDD.
Assessing the surveillance use of 2018 EFP/AAP classification of periodontitis: A validation study and clustering analysis
Authors: Du Mi , Mo Yuanqiu , Li An , Ge Shaohua , Peres Marco A.
Published: May 2023

Background

The performance of the 2018 European Federation of Periodontology/American Academy of Periodontology (EFP/AAP) classification of periodontitis for epidemiology surveillance purposes remains to be investigated. This study assessed the surveillance use of the 2018 EFP/AAP classification and its agreement with the unsupervised clustering method compared with the 2012 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC)/AAP case definition.

Methods

Participants (n = 9424) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were staged by the 2018 EFP/AAP classification and classified into subgroups via k‐medoids clustering. Concordance levels between periodontitis definitions and the clustering method were evaluated through the multiclass area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (multiclass AUC) among “periodontitis cases” and the general population, respectively. The multiclass AUC of the 2012 CDC/AAP definition versus clustering was used as a reference. The associations of periodontitis with chronic diseases were estimated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

All the participants were identified as “periodontitis cases” by the 2018 EFP/AAP classification, and the prevalence of stage III–IV was 30%. The optimal numbers of clusters were three and four. The 2012 CDC/AAP definition versus clustering yielded a multiclass AUC of 0.82 and 0.85 among the general population and “periodontitis cases,” respectively. The multiclass AUC of the 2018 EFP/AAP classification versus clustering was 0.77 and 0.78 for different target populations. Similar patterns prevailed in associations with chronic diseases between the 2018 EFP/AAP classification and clustering.

Conclusions

The validity of the 2018 EFP/AAP classification was verified by the unsupervised clustering method, which performed better in distinguishing “periodontitis cases” than classifying the general population. For surveillance purposes, the 2012 CDC/AAP definition showed a higher agreement level with the clustering method than the 2018 EFP/AAP classification.
Polysaccharides from sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) berries ameliorate cognitive dysfunction in AD mice induced by a combination of d‐gal and AlCl3 by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation reaction
Authors: Zhao Hong , Liu Jiayue , Wang Yanyan , Shao Mengting , Wang Lihong , Tang Weiwei , Wang Yuliang , Li Xiaoliang
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic properties of Hippophae rhamnoides L. were known in Ancient Greece and in Tibetan and Mongolian medicine, which commonly used it for the treatment of heart ailments, rheumatism, and brain disorders. Modern studies have indicated that Hippophae rhamnoides L. polysaccharide (HRP) can improve cognitive impairment in mice with Alzheimer's disease (AD) but the specific mechanisms of the protective effect of HRP have not been elucidated fully.

RESULTS

Our results showed that Hippophae rhamnoides L. polysaccharide I (HRPI) improved pathological behaviors related to memory and cognition, and reduced 1Beta‐amyloid (Aβ) peptide deposition and neuronal cell necrosis. Pretreatment with Hippophae rhamnoides L. polysaccharide I (HRPI) also decreased the level of Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and Myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), and reduced the release of inflammatory factors Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin 6 (IL‐6) in the brains of mice with AD. Treatment with HRPI also suppressed the expression level of Recombinant Kelch Like ECH Associated Protein 1 (KEAP1), and increased the levels of Nuclear factor erythroid 2‐Related Factor 2 (Nrf2), antioxidant enzymes Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) in the brains of AD mice.

CONCLUSIONS

On the whole, these findings revealed that HRPI could improve the learning and memory ability and attenuate pathologic impairment in AD mice, and the underlying mechanisms may involve mediating oxidative stress and inflammation, possibly through the regulation of the Keap1/Nrf2 and TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathways. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The effect of anastomotic leakage on the incidence of recurrence after tri‐modality therapy for esophageal adenocarcinomas
Authors: Stam Wessel T. , Schuring Nannet , Hulshof Maarten , van Laarhoven Hanneke , Derks Sarah , van Berge Henegouwen Mark I. , van der Peet Donald L. , Gisbertz Suzanne S. , Daams Freek
Published: May 2023

Background

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRTx) reduces the incidence of recurrence, while anastomotic leakage has shown increase the risk of recurrence. The primary objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the incidence and pattern of recurrence and secondary median recurrence‐free interval and post‐recurrence survival in patients with and without anastomotic leakage after multimodal therapy for esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Patients with recurrence after multimodal therapy between 2010 and 2018 were included.

Results

Six hundred and eighteen patients were included, 91 (14.7%) had leakage and 278 (45.0%) recurrence. Patients with leakage did not develop recurrence more often (48.4%) than those without (44.4%, [p = 0.484]). Recurrence‐free interval for patients with (n = 44) and without leakage (n = 234) was 39 and 52 weeks, respectively (p = 0.049). Post‐recurrence survival was 11 and 16 weeks, respectively (p = 0.702). Specified by recurrence site, post‐recurrence survival for loco‐regional recurrences was 27 versus 33 weeks (p = 0.387) for patients with and without leakage, for distant 9 versus 13 (p = 0.999), and for combined 11 versus 18 weeks (p = 0.492).

Conclusion and Discussion

No higher incidence of recurrent disease was observed in patients with anastomotic leakage, however it is associated with a shorter recurrence‐free interval. This could have implications for surveillance, as early detection of recurrent disease could influence therapeutic options.
Amphiphilic polymers facilitated solid‐phase extraction coupled with ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry for direct extraction and analysis of zearalenone and zearalanone in corn juice samples
Authors: Wu Zhuqiang , Jiang Xiangqiong , Yang Yanqun , Shi Rui , Ruan Guihua , Huang Yipeng
Published: May 2023

In this work, amphiphilic polymers synthesized from carboxylated carbon nanotubes stabilized high internal phase emulsions are demonstrated to be capable of direct extracting zearalenone and zearalanone in samples consisting of an oil‐water emulsion system. Under optimal conditions, the maximum adsorption capacities for zearalenone and zearalanone are 17.27 and 13.26 mg/g. The adsorption is mainly attributed to π‐π interaction, hydrophobic interaction, and hydrogen‐bonding interaction for zearalenone and zearalanone. The adsorption isotherms reveal that the adsorption of zearalenone and zearalanone on amphiphilic polymers synthesized from carboxylated carbon nanotubes stabilized high internal phase emulsions follows Freundlich model with multilayer and heterogeneous adsorption due to the presence of multiple kinds of adsorption sites. The relative recoveries of the spiked zearalenone and zearalanone in corn juice samples range from 85% to 93% with relative standard deviations lower than 3.52%. The results manifest the high efficiency of amphiphilic polymers synthesized from carboxylated carbon nanotubes stabilized high internal phase emulsions for the adsorption and separation of analytes in the oil‐water emulsion system. This study provides a new perspective on adsorbent engineering for the adsorption application in heterogeneous media.
Decomposition reaction kinetics of double‐base propellant catalyzed with graphene oxide–copper oxide nanocomposite
Authors: Louafi Elamine , Boulkadid Moulai Karim , Belgacemi Raouf , Touidjine Sabri , Akbi Hamdane , Belkhiri Samir , Benaliouche Fouad
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this paper is the investigation of the catalytic effect of graphene oxide–copper oxide nanocomposite (GCNC) on the thermal comportment and decomposition reaction kinetics of a double‐base propellant (DBP) formulation. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to conduct the thermal analysis. Using well‐known iso‐conversional kinetics methods, namely, Vyazovkin's nonlinear integral with compensatory effect (VYA/CE), Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), and Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO), the thermokinetic parameters for the investigated propellant, including activation energy and frequency factor, were estimated. Additionally, based on the results obtained from the kinetic analysis, the critical ignition temperature was calculated. The results showed that after the addition of GCNC, the activation energy barrier is lowered by 18%, and the critical ignition temperature is reduced.
Prediction of spring agricultural drought using machine learning algorithms in the southern Songnen Plain, China
Authors: Chen Xiuxue , Li Xiaofeng , Jiang Bo , Su Jiajia , Zheng Xingming , Wang Guangrui
Published: May 2023

Winter climate conditions have a great effect on spring soil moisture (SM) in cold regions. The frequent occurrence of spring drought events in the Songnen Plain poses a significant threat to food security. In this study, we selected the random forest (RF) algorithm from three currently popular machine learning algorithms to predict the spatial pattern of average SM for the period of April 1–15 and April 16–30 with 1 km resolution in the dry cropland of southern Songnen Plain (SSNP) using 0–10 cm SM data for each April from 81 agro‐meteorological stations and winter climate data (e.g., temperature, snowfall), soil properties and topographic relief. Compared to the existing ERA5_Land and SMAP SM products, we obtain higher precision SM data (April 1–15: r = 0.74, RMSE = 0.050 m3 m−3; April 16–30: r = 0.73, RMSE = 0.051 m3 m−3). Drought grades were classified based on predicted SM data, and the results indicate agricultural drought was mainly influenced by the change of winter snowfall/snow depth, with western SSNP being more susceptible to drought because of soil properties. Compared with current SM data products, the RF model proposed in this study can implement more accurate prediction of spring soil drought based on winter climate, provide important information for agricultural management departments to prepare for spring cropping and irrigation, and avoid further soil salinization caused by drought.
Formulation and tribological performance of engine oil blended with various non‐edible vegetable oils
Authors: Basiron Juliana , Abdollah Mohd Fadzli Bin , Abdullah Muhammad Ilman Hakimi Chua , Amiruddin Hilmi
Published: May 2023

This present study formulated eco‐friendly lubricants by combining non‐edible vegetable oils with a mineral oil and investigated their efficacy on the friction and wear characteristics of four AISI 52100 chrome steel balls. Multiple formulations containing varying combinations of 0 to 100 vol% of a mineral oil SAE 15W40 (S100), castor oil (C100), and jatropha oil (J100) were prepared using the sonification technique in an ultrasonic homogeniser. A fourier transform spectrometer (FTIR) was then used to investigate the molecular vibrations of each formulation. A tribological test was also performed with a four‐ball tribometer according to ASTM D4172‐94 engineering standards. Finally, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscope (EDX) was used to examine surface morphologies. The 80% S100, 10% C100, and 10% J100 (S80C10J10) formulation provided excellent tribological performance as it contained fatty acids composed of carbohydrates and carbonyl groups, particularly polysaccharides and glycerols.
Translation, cross‐cultural adaptation and evaluation of the Iranian Persian version of student survey on writing nursing care plan
Authors: Ramazanzadeh Nargess , Ghahramanian Akram , Zamanzadeh Vahid , Onyeka Tonia C. , Valizadeh Leila , Ghaffarifar Saeideh
Published: May 2023

Aim

The objective of this study was to validate the Iranian translation and cross‐cultural adaptation of the Student Survey on Writing Nursing Care Plan (SSW‐NCP).

Background

To provide supporting evidence about the nursing students' skill in planning and documenting nursing care plans based on nursing process, Salvador et al. developed the SSW‐NCP to measure the extent to which nursing students are qualified in writing nursing care plans. However, an Iranian version of the SSW‐NCP is presently not available.

Method

The cross‐cultural adaptation and linguistic translation of the SSW‐NCP adhered to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The reliability and validity process followed the COSMIN checklist.

Results

The survey was well translated to Persian language and culturally adapted through confirming the relevancy, appropriateness and logical representation of all aspects on nursing process by bilingual experts and pre‐tested on Persian‐speaking nursing students. The Cronbach's Alpha coefficient (α) and test–retest stability assessing affirmed the reliability, and convergent validity of the adapted survey was confirmed through comparison to Influencing Factors of Nursing Students' Clinical Judgment (IFNSCJ). The adaptation process of the SSW‐NCP resulted in a conceptually equivalent translated version, which is comparable to the original version and is acceptably valid and reliable.

Implications for Nursing Management

Knowing the proficiency of nursing students as future nurses in writing nursing care plans can provide accurate professional information for better educational and practical level programming and management that can enhance nursing practice.

Patient or Public Contribution

The target group of survey was nursing students who contributed and participated in the current study.
Toxicity and feasibility of vincristine, etoposide, and carboplatin alternating with vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide in children with advanced retinoblastoma in Guatemala
Authors: Graff Zachary , Giron Veronica , Miller Kristen , Pixtun Dyna , Alejos Amanda , Luna‐Fineman Sandra
Published: May 2023

Retinoblastoma is highly curable, with event‐free survival (EFS) of greater than 95% in high‐income countries. However, in lower middle‐income countries, outcomes of EFS are 30%–60% due to delayed diagnosis and lack of resources resulting in extra‐ocular disease. We report the toxicity profile and outcomes of intensified therapy for advanced retinoblastoma: vincristine, etoposide, carboplatin (VEC) alternating with vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide (VDoCx) in Guatemala. Compared to VEC alone, similar rates of neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia were seen, with no toxic deaths. Although survival was not a primary objective, a modest survival benefit supports further investigation of VEC+VDoCx for advanced retinoblastoma.
Mechanical and fracture properties of carbon nano fibers/short carbon fiber epoxy composites
Authors: Nimbagal Vijayakumar , Banapurmath N. R. , Umarfarooq M. A. , Revankar Suraj , Sajjan Ashok M. , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M. , Shahapurkar Kiran , Alamir Mohammed A. , Alarifi Ibrahim M. , Elfasakhany Ashraf
Published: May 2023

This work investigated the influence of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) and aggregate of CNFs with micro‐sized short carbon fibers (SCFs) on the mechanical, thermal, and fracture properties of epoxy (80%) ‐ Polylactic acid (PLA) (20%) composite. Epoxy‐PLA composite loaded with CNFs (0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 wt.%) and a combination of CNFs and SCFs (0.2 and 0.4 wt.% with equal content of each filler) were manufactured by sonication and manual casting. The synergistic effects of CNFs and SCFs in the epoxy matrix were investigated through mechanical and fracture characterization of nanocomposites. In comparison to CNF‐reinforced nanocomposites, the composites reinforced with integrated multiscale fillers have higher tensile, flexural, impact strength, and fracture toughness. Tensile, flexural and impact strength increased by 17.18–25.72%, 39.24–44.07%, and 39.87–97.05% respectively with the incorporation of both CNFs and SCFs into epoxy‐PLA matrices. An improvement in fracture toughness in the range of 37.93–38.77% was observed in hybrid nanocomposites in comparison to pristine epoxy‐PLA composite. The synergetic mechanism of nano and micro fillers was studied by using the fracture surfaces from tensile tests using scanning electron microscopy. The numerical analysis was also carried out to simulate the effects of filler concentration on the tensile and bending strength of nanocomposites through representative volume element using an ANSYS workbench.