bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managing juvenile idiopathic arthritis within the context of their life: What we learnt from children and youth living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and their parents
Authors: Currie G. R. , Kennedy B. L. , S. M. Benseler , R. S. M. Yeung , J. F. Swart , S. J. Vastert , N. M. Wulffraat , M. M. A. Kip , MacKean Gail , Marshall D. A.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatic disease in children and causes short‐ and long‐term disability. Optimal management requires pharmacologic and non‐pharmacologic interventions. Few studies have explored the youth and family experience of the management of JIA. This study's objective was to explore the management experience of youth with JIA and their parents.

Methods

This qualitative study used semi‐structured interviews with youth 12–18 years of age with JIA receiving biological medication and parents of children with JIA on biological medication. Participants were recruited in clinics using convenience sampling. A thematic analysis approach was employed for data analysis.

Results

Nine youth and 14 parents participated. Four themes were identified that encompassed an overarching theme of participants managing JIA within the context of their life: aspects of life affected by JIA and its management, lived experience with JIA management, medication decision‐making, and involvement in decision‐making. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis management is situated within the context of their life but is normally (outside acute events) not central.

Conclusion

Two dimensions were added to those in the literature: parents' overall approaches to health and the sense of urgency surrounding decision‐making. Our findings reinforce the importance of person‐ and family‐centred care in paediatric rheumatology. That is, identifying what matters most to youth and their parents given their current life circumstances to provide a foundation for discussions of how they want to manage their JIA.
Development of a consumer involvement strategy for a small university‐based musculoskeletal research centre
Authors: Nelligan Rachel K. , Haber Travis , Bennell Kim L. , Hinman Rana S. , Bidgood Neil , Marlow Jennifer , Lawford Belinda J.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To develop a Consumer Involvement Strategy which adheres to best practice recommendations and is feasible to implement in a small musculoskeletal research centre funded solely by external grants.

Methods

The Strategy development involved five collaborative and iterative stages: (1) conceptualisation and initial consultation; (2) formation of the Consumer Involvement Strategy Action Group; (3) defining the scope and developing the strategy; (4) consultation and refinement; and (5) presentation and implementation. The final three stages were overseen by a Consumer Involvement Strategy Action Group comprising two post‐doctoral research fellows, a PhD student representative, and two consumers (people with osteoarthritis), all with experience in consumer involvement activities in research.

Results

The final strategy aligns with best practice recommendations and includes five unique levels of consumer involvement that were devised to encompass the wide variety of consumer involvement activities across the research centre. It includes a policy document with five strategic aims, each supported by an implementation plan, and includes a suite of resources for researchers and consumers to support its application.

Conclusion

The Consumer Involvement Strategy and its described development may serve as a template for other research teams facing similar resource constraints, both at a national and international level.
Lake Trout population dynamics in the Northern Refuge of Lake Michigan: Importance of stocking rate
Authors: Madenjian Charles P. , Dieter Patricia M. , Desorcie Timothy J. , Lengnick Stephen A. , O'Brien Timothy P. , Benes Lynn M. , Farha Steven A. , Leonhardt Benjamin S.
Published: August 2023

Objective

The Northern Refuge of Lake Michigan was established under the auspices of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission in 1985 as an additional step toward restoring a self-sustaining Lake Trout Salvelinus namaycush population to the lake. The overall goal of our study was to assess progress toward Lake Trout rehabilitation in the Northern Refuge through 2021.

Methods

We conducted annual (1992–2021) gill-net surveys in the fall to assess the adult population and beam trawl surveys in the spring to assess naturally reproduced age-0 Lake Trout.

Result

Spawner abundance averaged 45 fish • 305 m of gill net−1 • day−1 during 1992–1999, just 4 fish • 305 m of gill net−1 • day−1 during 2000–2014, and then 67 fish • 305 m of gill net−1 • day−1 during 2018–2021. Sea Lamprey Petromyzon marinus wounding rate decreased by nearly 90% between the 2000–2014 and 2015–2021 periods. The average annual mortality rate of adult Lake Trout decreased from 43% during the 1990s and 2000s to 22% during 2015–2021. All of these population dynamics were partly driven by changes in Lake Trout stocking rates, which declined by roughly 50% during 1994–1996 but then increased roughly twofold during 2006–2010 and remained at this higher level during 2010–2018. In 2021, early signs of natural recruitment of Lake Trout became evident. Beam trawling during June 2021 yielded a wild age-0 Lake Trout, the first ever caught since the surveys began in 1992. In addition, 15 (4% of total catch) of the Lake Trout caught in the fall 2021 gill-net survey were unclipped (wild) fish. Estimated ages of these wild fish indicated that natural recruitment had begun sometime around 2015.

Conclusion

With Alewife Alosa pseudoharengus abundance in Lake Michigan at record low levels, Sea Lamprey wounding rate greatly reduced, and Lake Trout spawner abundance at relatively high levels, the outlook for Lake Trout rehabilitation in the Northern Refuge holds promise.
Spatiotemporal vaccine allocation policies for epidemics with behavioral feedback dynamics
Authors: Barth Julius , Li Su , Aprahamian Hrayer , Gupta Diwakar
Published: August 2023

Motivated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, we study how a public health authority may allocate vaccines from a limited stockpile to different jurisdictions over time. We propose an epidemiological model with time‐varying contact rates determined by a stylized behavioral feedback mechanism to reflect multi‐wave transmission dynamics. We evaluate the performance of various information‐sensitive allocation policies (e.g., allocation proportional to local incidence) as alternatives to the widely used pro‐rata policy. We also obtain optimized allocation strategies under the proposed epidemiological model with fairness and implementable freeze‐period constraints. For the case of a multi‐wave epidemic as represented by our compartmental model with behavioral feedback, we find that none of the alternative policies offers consistently more efficient allocations than a simple pro‐rata policy across a broad range of behavioral parameter settings. In fact, in some cases the alternative policies may actually result in less efficient allocations than the pro‐rata policy. Thus our results support the conclusion that the widely used pro‐rata policy can be well justified because it is simple to explain/implement and does not cause unexpected adverse effects. However, if policy makers are willing to invest in more tailored strategies based on numerical optimization, then the identified optimized strategies are a more favorable option as they allow for a more efficient allocation of vaccines.
Optimizing vaccine distribution in developing countries under natural disaster risk
Authors: Seranilla Bonn Kleiford , Löhndorf Nils
Published: August 2023

For many developing countries, COVID‐19 vaccination roll‐out programs are not only slow but vaccination centers are also exposed to the risk of natural disaster, like flooding, which may slow down vaccination progress even further. Policy‐makers in developing countries therefore seek to implement strategies that hedge against distribution risk in order for vaccination campaigns to run smoothly and without delays. We propose a stochastic‐dynamic facility location model that allows policy‐makers to choose vaccination facilities while accounting for possible facility failure. The model is a multi‐stage stochastic variant of the classic facility location problem where disruption risk is modelled as a binary multivariate random process–a problem class that has not yet been studied in the extant literature. To solve the problem, we propose a novel approximate dynamic programming algorithm which trains the shadow price of opening a flood‐prone facility on historical data, thereby alleviating the need to fit a stochastic model. We trained the model using rainfall data provided by the local government of several major cities in the Philippines which are exposed to multiple flooding events per year. Numerical results demonstrate that the solution approach yields approximately 30%–40% lower cost than a baseline approach that does not consider the risk of flooding. Recommendations based on this model were implemented following a collaboration with two large cities in the Philippines which are exposed to multiple flooding events per year.
Antiproliferative Activities and SwissADME Predictions of Physicochemical Properties of Carbonyl Group‐Modified Rotenone Analogues
Authors: Hernandez Rajelle D. , Genio Frances Abygail F. , Casanova Jannelle R. , Conato Marlon T. , Paderes Monissa C.
Published: August 2023

Rotenone is a naturally occurring compound shown to exhibit antiproliferative activity against various cancer cell lines, indicating its potential as a lead anticancer agent. However, its toxicity against normal cells has prompted further investigation and chemical modifications. In this study, a library of carbonyl group‐modified rotenone derivatives was synthesized and evaluated for their antiproliferative activities against MCF‐7 breast cancer cells, A549 human lung carcinoma cells, and HCT116 human colorectal cancer cells using 3‐(4, 5‐dimethylthiazolyl‐2)‐2, 5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The results showed several promising compounds that inhibited cell proliferation. Specifically, the oxime and alcohol rotenone derivatives exhibited antiproliferative activities against all 3 cancer cell lines, while the ethoxy, carbamate, and alkene derivatives are selective against MCF‐7 (IC50=5.72 μM), HCT116 (IC50=8.86 μM), and A549 (IC50=0.11 μM), respectively. SwissADME analysis showed that the physicochemical properties and drug‐likeness of the synthesized rotenone derivatives were within the set limits, suggesting the favorable characteristics of these compounds for drug development. The findings obtained in this work highlight the potential of rotenone derivatives as promising chemotherapeutic candidates.
Tools of digital innovation in public affairs management: A practice‐oriented analysis
Authors: Bitonti Alberto
Published: August 2023

While the literature on digital transformation is growing in several fields, research on the effects of digital innovation in the practice of public affairs is still scattered and unsystematic, mostly focusing on interest groups' social media strategies. However, digital innovation has begun to change the practice of public affairs management in many areas, especially in the form of datafication, AI analytics, and cloud‐based knowledge management platforms. Growing possibilities in the use of data science and evidence‐informed strategic decision‐making have arisen in domains traditionally shaped by intuitions and non‐codified professional experience. Based on desk research of case studies and hands‐on analyses of three increasingly popular public affairs management software platforms (FiscalNote, Quorum, KMIND), this article develops a practice‐oriented analysis of various digital tools and functionalities available to public affairs practitioners today, tackling a gap in the literature on how digital innovation can impact the management of several activities along the different phases of a public affairs campaign (monitoring and analysis, strategy design, action, assessment). The article thus highlights how digital innovation goes way beyond the sheer use of social media in communication activities, impacting the practice of public affairs on a deeper and more strategic level.
An analysis of the resource use and costs of febrile neutropenia events in pediatric cancer patients in Australia
Authors: Vargas Constanza , Haeusler Gabrielle M. , Slavin Monica A. , Babl Franz E. , Mechinaud Francoise , Phillips Robert , Thursky Karin , Lourenco Richard De Abreu ,   the Australian PICNICC Study Group
Published: August 2023

Background

Febrile neutropenia (FN) in children with cancer generally requires in‐hospital care, but low‐risk patients may be successfully managed in an outpatient setting, potentially reducing the overall healthcare costs. Updated data on the costs of FN care are lacking.

Methods

A bottom‐up microcosting analysis was conducted from the healthcare system perspective using data collected alongside the Australian PICNICC (Predicting Infectious Complications of Neutropenic sepsis In Children with Cancer) study. Inpatient costs were accessed from hospital administrative records and outpatient costs from Medicare data. Costs were stratified by risk status (low/high risk) according to the PICNICC criteria. Estimated mean costs were obtained through bootstrapping and using a linear model to account for multiple events across individuals and other clinical factors that may impact costs.

Results

The total costs of FN care were significantly higher for FN events classified as high‐risk ($17,827, 95% confidence interval [CI]: $17,193–$18,461) compared to low‐risk ($10,574, 95% CI: $9818–$11,330). In‐hospital costs were significantly higher for high‐risk compared to low‐risk events, despite no differences in the cost structure, mean cost per day, and pattern of resource use. Hospital length of stay (LOS) was the only modifiable factor significantly associated with total costs of care. Excluding antineoplastics, antimicrobials are the most commonly used medications in the inpatient and outpatient setting for the overall period of analysis.

Conclusion

The FN costs are driven by in‐hospital admission and LOS. This suggests that the outpatient management of low‐risk patients is likely to reduce the in‐hospital cost of treating an FN event. Further research will determine if shifting the cost to the outpatient setting remains cost‐effective overall.
A novel shell‐based hierarchical multiscale model for studying three‐dimensional four‐directional braided composite shafts
Authors: Wang Ya , Li Zhi‐Jian , Liu Zheng‐Guo , Yi Yun‐Peng
Published: August 2023

The mechanical properties of three‐dimensional (3D) braided composites are related to damage evolution. However, the multi‐scale damage mechanism of 3D braided composite shafts remains unclear. The main purpose of this article is to propose a shell‐based multiscale finite element model for effectively predicting the compressive and torsional properties of 3D four‐directional (3D4d) braided composite shafts. Considering the relation between equivalent ply angles and yarn structures, the multiscale model was developed based on a universal tubular unit cell. The equivalent ply angle was derived through the yarns' local braiding and horizontal orientation angles, and the elastic properties of each equivalent ply were derived through the stiffness averaging method. Both derivations were achieved by creatively utilizing deformation gradient theory and Nanson's formula from continuum mechanics. LaRC04 failure criteria and energy‐based damage evolution law were implemented to characterize the equivalent UD‐ply's damage behaviors. The proposed model was validated experimentally, and good agreements were observed between the failure morphologies and load–displacement curves of FEA and experimental results. The results show that the fiber tension and compression damages are the major failure modes of 3D4d braided composite shafts under compressive and torque loads, respectively. Finally, a parametric study was carried out and compared with that from other literature to clarify the meaning of this article in relevant studies. It provides an efficient and useful tool for the design and manufacturing of 3D4d braided composite shafts with desirable mechanical properties.

Highlights

A shell‐based hierarchical multiscale model is developed for 3D braided composite shafts.

An analyzing method is developed to investigate the tubular yarn structures.

A large‐scale torsional experimental scheme is developed.
The utility of gene sequencing in identifying an underlying genetic disorder in prenatally suspected lower urinary tract obstruction
Authors: Brar Bobby K. , Blakemore Karin , Hertenstein Christine , Miller Jena L. , Miller Kristen A. , Shamseldin Hanan , Maddirevula Sateesh , Hays Thomas , Lianoglou Billie , Dukhovny Stephanie , Baker Linda A. , Sparks Teresa N. , Wapner Ronald , Alkuraya Fowzan S. , Norton Mary E. , Jelin Angie C. ,   Fetal Sequencing Consortium
Published: August 2023

Objective

Fetal megacystis generally presents as suspected lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO), which is associated with severe perinatal morbidity. Genetic etiologies underlying LUTO or a LUTO—like initial presentation are poorly understood. Our objectives are to describe single gene etiologies in fetuses initially ascertained to have suspected LUTO and to elucidate genotype‐phenotype correlations.

Methods

A retrospective case series of suspected fetal LUTO positive for a molecular diagnosis was collected from five centers in the Fetal Sequencing Consortium. Demographics, sonograms, genetic testing including variant classification, and delivery outcomes were abstracted.

Results

Seven cases of initially prenatally suspected LUTO‐positive for a molecular diagnosis were identified. In no case was the final diagnosis established as urethral obstruction that is, LUTO. All variants were classified as likely pathogenic or pathogenic. Smooth muscle deficiencies involving the bladder wall and interfering with bladder emptying were identified in five cases: MYOCD (2), ACTG2 (2), and MYH11 (1). Other genitourinary and/or non‐genitourinary malformations were seen in two cases involving KMT2D (1) and BBS10 (1).

Conclusion

Our series illustrates the value of molecular diagnostics in the workup of fetuses who present with prenatally suspected LUTO but who may have a non‐LUTO explanation for their prenatal ultrasound findings.
Non‐invasive assessment of cultivar and sex of Cannabis sativa L. by means of hyperspectral measurement
Authors: Matros Andrea , Menz Patrick , Gill Alison R. , Santoscoy Armando , Dawson Tim , Seiffert Udo , Burton Rachel A.
Published: August 2023

Cannabis sativa L. is a versatile crop attracting increasing attention for food, fiber, and medical uses. As a dioecious species, males and females are visually indistinguishable during early growth. For seed or cannabinoid production, a higher number of female plants is economically advantageous. Currently, sex determination is labor‐intensive and costly. Instead, we used rapid and non‐destructive hyperspectral measurement, an emerging means of assessing plant physiological status, to reliably differentiate males and females. One industrial hemp (low tetrahydrocannabinol [THC]) cultivar was pre‐grown in trays before transfer to the field in control soil. Reflectance spectra were acquired from leaves during flowering and machine learning algorithms applied allowed sex classification, which was best using a radial basis function (RBF) network. Eight industrial hemp (low THC) cultivars were field grown on fertilized and control soil. Reflectance spectra were acquired from leaves at early development when the plants of all cultivars had developed between four and six leaf pairs and in three cases only flower buds were visible (start of flowering). Machine learning algorithms were applied, allowing sex classification, differentiation of cultivars and fertilizer regime, again with best results for RBF networks. Differentiating nutrient status and varietal identity is feasible with high prediction accuracy. Sex classification was error‐free at flowering but less accurate (between 60% and 87%) when using spectra from leaves at early growth stages. This was influenced by both cultivar and soil conditions, reflecting developmental differences between cultivars related to nutritional status. Hyperspectral measurement combined with machine learning algorithms is valuable for non‐invasive assessment of C. sativa cultivar and sex. This approach can potentially improve regulatory security and productivity of cannabis farming.
A comprehensive review on poly(vinylidene fluoride) from a theoretical and multimodal applications perspective
Authors: Sk Asadullah , Adhikary Prakriti , Rahman Wahida , Haldar Prabir Kr.
Published: August 2023

With the fast paced development of electronic devices in the past few decades, self powered, biocompatible, flexible small but easy to fabricate devices are becoming more and more desirable. Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and its co‐polymers are being used to make such devices because those devices have those characters. In this study we presented brief history regarding piezoelectricity in general and piezoelectricity in PVDF and its copolymers in particular. We have discussed the theoretical understanding about the piezoelectric properties in these piezoelectric materials and the unsolved open questions. We have presented many different applications of PVDF and its copolymers. Here, we tried to cover all the dimensions of study around PVDF and its copolymers. The intention here is to help anyone who wants to work on this field with an overall brief map of this field.

Highlights

This is a comprehensive review on the topic.

Historical development of this field of research is discussed.

Theoretical developments and the unsolved open questions are also included.

Some of the important applications of piezoelectric polymers like P(VDF‐HFP) are discussed.

Future direction of research in this field is also indicated.
Low‐flammability epoxy resins with short solidification time and good mechanical properties
Authors: Ma Menghua , Zhao Liangbing , Wang Guangrui , Song Cheng , Chen Rui
Published: August 2023

A novel fire‐resistant epoxy resin (EP) material has been prepared using EP, 9, 10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO), maleic anhydride, and 2‐aminobenzothiazole. Maleithiazolephosphaphenanthrene (MSD) was synthesized and its chemical structure was characterized using infrared spectroscopy (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Fire‐resistant additive MSD was introduced into EP. The flammability and mechanical properties of the modified EP materials were then investigated using limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL‐94 vertical burning, cone calorimeter (CC), tensile, three‐point bending, and izod unnotched impact tests. EP blend containing 4%MSD displayed a UL‐94 V‐0 rating and an LOI value of 32.2%. Heat release and smoke release determined using cone calorimeter for the sample containing 4% MSD were lower than the sample of EP alone. Further, introduction of 4% MSD to EP material improved its izod impact, tensile strength, and flexural strength by 13.3%, 13.9%, and 21.6%, respectively. Inferences for the mode of fire‐resistant action were available from MSD, XPS, SEM, Raman, and Py‐GC/MS. MSD has a positive effect on fire resistance in both the condensed phase and gas phase.

Highlights

A novel flame‐retardant (MSD) was synthesized.

MSD endowed EP with excellent fire safety and improved mechanical properties.

MSD shortened solidification time of EP during preparation.

MSD plays a flame‐retardant role in both condensed and gaseous phases.
Emotion regulation, resilience, and mental health: A mediation study with university students in the pandemic context
Authors: Brites Rute , Brandão Tânia , Hipólito João , Ros Antónia , Nunes Odete
Published: August 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic had a huge impact on people's lives due to the fear of getting infected and having the disease, as well as the necessary prevention and containment measures. University students were one of the most affected groups, as they were forced to cope with significant life changes. However, not all displayed symptoms of psychological distress, which means that internal resources such as emotional regulation and resilience may have acted as protective variables. This cross‐sectional study aimed to examine the extent to which the relationship between emotion regulation and stress, anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms was mediated by resilience in a sample of university students. Results showed that emotion regulation strategies were positively associated with lower mental health. Some resilience dimensions mediated these relationships, with perception‐of‐self mediating all associations. Planned future mediated the association between emotion regulation and depression, family cohesion mediated the relation between emotion regulation and stress, and social resources mediated the association of cognitive reappraisal with anxiety and PTSD by suppressing the direct positive relationship. These results highlight the relevance of resilience as a key resource in coping effectively with the uncertainties, and changes that arise during stressful periods such as a pandemic.
Exome‐based new allele‐specific PCR markers and transferability for sodicity tolerance in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Bhoite Roopali , Smith Rosemary , Bansal Urmil , Dowla Mirza , Bariana Harbans , Sharma Darshan
Published: August 2023

Targeted exome‐based genotype by sequencing (t‐GBS), a sequencing technology that tags SNPs and haplotypes in gene‐rich regions was used in previous genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) for sodicity tolerance in bread wheat. Thirty‐nine novel SNPs including 18 haplotypes for yield and yield‐components were identified. The present study aimed at developing SNP‐derived markers by precisely locating new SNPs on ~180 bp allelic sequence of t‐GBS, marker validation, and SNP functional characterization based on its exonic location. We identified unknown locations of significant SNPs/haplotypes by aligning allelic sequences on to IWGSC RefSeqv1.0 on respective chromosomes. Eighteen out of the target 39 SNP locations fulfilled the criteria for producing PCR markers, among which only eight produced polymorphic signals. These eight markers associated with yield, plants m−2, heads m−2, and harvest index, including a pleiotropic marker for yield, harvest index, and grains/head were validated for its amplification efficiency and phenotypic effects in focused identification germplasm strategy (FIGS) wheat set and a doubled haploid (DH) population (Scepter/IG107116). The phenotypic variation explained by these markers are in the range of 4.1–37.6 in the FIGS population. High throughput PCR‐based genotyping using new markers and association with phenotypes in FIGS wheat set and DH population validated the effect of functional SNP on closely associated genes—calcineurin B‐like‐ and dirigent protein, basic helix–loop–helix (BHLH‐), plant homeodomain (PHD‐) and helix–turn–helix myeloblastosis (HTH myb) type ‐transcription factor. Further, genome‐wide SNP annotation using SnpEff tool confirmed that these SNPs are in gene regulatory regions (upstream, 3′‐UTR, and intron) modifying gene expression and protein‐coding. This integrated approach of marker design for t‐GBS alleles, SNP functional annotation, and high‐throughput genotyping of functional SNP offers translation solutions across crops and complex traits in crop improvement programs.
Upcycling of thermoplastic polyurethane into covalent adaptable networks via chain breaking‐crosslinking strategy
Authors: Wang Binbo , Wang Yi , Li Falin , Du Shuai , Zhu Jin , Ma Songqi
Published: August 2023

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), as one of the most widely used elastomers, has received rapid development, and its recycling becomes increasingly urgent. In this work, a TPU is upcycled to PU covalent adaptable networks (CANs) via chain breaking‐crosslinking strategy of being extruded with polyol and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) on a micro twin‐screw extruder. The carbamate exchange between the polyol and TPU breaks the chain of TPU and introduces plenty of reactive hydroxyl groups, which activates the TPU chain. Long‐chain‐branched TPU with hydroxyl groups is obtained during the chain‐breaking step and then crosslinked with IPDI to obtain highly crosslinked networks. PU‐CANs exhibit improved mechanical properties and elastic recovery rate, which is propitious to elastomers. Moreover, the crosslinked network greatly enhances the creep resistance and solvent resistance of the material. PU‐CANs maintain favorable reprocessability, suitable for screw extrusion and hot‐press processing. This work provides a simple and efficient method to upcycle TPU into reprocessable highly‐crosslinked polymers and improve the properties of polymers.
Histologic inflammation and collagen content are not positively correlated in human BPH
Authors: Schneider Andrew J. , Serrell Emily C. , Grimes Matthew , Wang Sijian , Bushman Wade
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Recent clinical studies have implicated prostate inflammation and fibrosis in the development of bladder outlet obstruction and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Studies utilizing rodent models, including work in our laboratory, have shown prostate fibrosis to occur as a consequence of inflammation. However, the relationship between collagen content and inflammation in human tissue samples obtained from surgical treatment of benign prostatic hypererplasia (BPH)/LUTS has not to our knowledge been previously examined.

Methods

Prostate tissue specimens from 53 patients (ages 47−88, mean 65.1) treated by open simple prostatectomy or transurethral resection of the prostate for BPH/LUTS were stained to quantitatively assess prostate inflammation and collagen content. Patients with prostate cancer present in greater than 5% of the surgical specimen were excluded. Prostate volume was determined from pelvic CT scan obtained within 2 years of surgery.

Results

Analysis of the data showed that inflammation was inversely correlated with collagen content (r = −0.28, p = 0.04). In men with prostates less than 75 cm3 inflammation increases and collagen content decreases with prostate volume (p = 0.002 and p = 0.03, respectively) while in men with prostate volume over 75 cm3 inflammation decreases and collagen content increases with prostate volume (p = 0.30 and p = 0.005, respectively).

Conclusions

Our data do not support the assumed positive association of prostate inflammation with collagen content. Coordinated analysis of scatter plots of inflammation and collagen content with prostate volume revealed a subset of prostates with volumes >50 cm3 prostate characterized by intense inflammation and low collagen content and it is this subgroup that appears most responsible for the inverse correlation of inflammation and collagen.
The role of microRNAs in muscle wasting and recovery during critical illness: a systematic review
Authors: Borja‐Gonzalez Maria , Coyne Sarah , Fagan Sarah , Casas‐Martinez Jose C. , Sannicandro Anthony J. , McNicholas Bairbre , O'Connell Kevin , Laffey John G. , O'Caoimh Rónán , McDonagh Brian , Goljanek‐Whysall Katarzyna
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Critical illness associated with intensive care unit (ICU) admission often results in persistent skeletal muscle wasting and may lead to frailty in older and patients with multi‐morbidity. Early recognition of patients at high‐risk of long‐term complications could provide opportunities to minimize the impact of critical illness and improve health and quality of life. MicroRNAs (miRs) are short, non‐coding RNAs that regulate approximately two‐thirds of the human genome and are involved in most biological processes. Multiple studies have demonstrated their role in muscle development and disease and their potential as biomarkers of muscle wasting.

Aim and methods

This systematic review examined the potential of miRs as biomarkers and therapeutics for muscle wasting during and following critical illness. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for terms associated with critical illness, ICU, muscle wasting, frailty and microRNAs from inception to June 2022 (PROSPERO number CRD42022339531).

Results

Out of 537 articles, seven studies met the inclusion criteria and examined skeletal muscle and circulating miRs in the context of muscle wasting and/or frailty related to critical illness. Across the seven studies, 27 different miRs were identified that were reported to be dysregulated in the muscle and four in the blood, plasma or serum of critically ill patients. Four miRs were reported to be altered in both muscle and blood during critical illness and their levels moderately correlated with parameters of muscle function. These included canonical muscle‐enriched miRs (myomiRs), such as miR‐133, miR‐1 and miR‐181, which correlated with muscle strength in critically ill patients. However, most of the miRs reported to be dysregulated in the muscle following critical illness were examined in one article only.

Conclusions

This systematic review highlights the potential of miRs as biomarkers of skeletal muscle wasting and ICU‐associated weakness following critical illness, suggesting the need for larger validation studies using unbiased techniques. We have described circulating and muscle microRNAs, which correlated with muscle parameters during critical illness. However, the limited number of studies in this area highlights the requirement for further studies before these could be considered in clinical practice.
Evaluation of the adsorption behavior of mixed perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances onto granular activated carbon and styrene‐divinylbenzene resins
Authors: Sukeesan Suratsawadee , Boontanon Narin , Fujii Shigeo , Boontanon Suwanna Kitpati
Published: August 2023

Because of the remarkable chemical structure of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), as well as the complex conditions of water, selecting an appropriate adsorbent for treating PFAS is critical. Adsorption needs to be environmentally friendly, low cost, and consider the types of adsorbents that work well in mixed PFAS solutions. In the present study, we used mixed PFAS to estimate the PFAS activity. This research aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of the adsorption of PFAS from water using different adsorbents: granular activated carbon (GAC), IRA 910 (strong anion resin), and DOWEX MB‐50 (mixed exchange resin). Batch adsorption isotherms and kinetic studies were performed for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS). Freundlich models consistently described the kinetic behavior with a high correlation coefficient (R2 > 0.98). PFAS adsorption capacities on GAC and IRA910 were dependent on the chain length (PFOS > PFOA > PFHxS). The adsorption capacity of DOWEX MB‐50 decreased because of the sulfonate effects (PFOS > PFHxS > PFOA). The rate constants (k2) that represented the adsorption of PFAS on different adsorbents observed within 96 h were accurately determined by the pseudo‐second‐order (PSO) model. GAC achieved followed the relationship k2(PFOS) > k2(PFOA) > k2(PFHxS). Furthermore, k2 of IRA910 decreased in the order of k2(PFOA) > k2(PFOS) > k2(PFHxS), implying that IRA910 promoted hydrophobicity more significantly on the adsorption of PFCAs than perfluoroalkane (‐alkyl) sulfonic acids. The kinetics of DOWEX MB‐50 revealed k2(PFHxS) > k2(PFOS) > k2(PFOA) because gel‐type resins like DOWEX MB‐50 are more suitable for shorter‐chain PFAS. Further investigation is needed to determine the effect of organic matter under natural conditions and evaluate adsorptive selection caused by operational complexities.
Fully predefined‐time distributed observer design for second‐order strict‐feedback nonlinear systems
Authors: Lv Jixing , Kao Yonggui , Wang Changhong , Wang Feifei
Published: August 2023

Distributed observer is an effective tool to deal with leader‐following control problems. This article investigates the fully predefined‐time distributed observer (FPTDO) design problem of a generalized second‐order strict‐feedback nonlinear leader system. Firstly, given the system parameters and the upper bounds of the system nonlinearities, an FPTDO is proposed to provide the state estimates. Secondly, considering that the time‐varying system parameters and nonlinear functions of the leader system are unknown to each follower, an FPTDO is developed to estimate the time‐varying system parameters, nonlinearities and full state of the leader. The proposed FPTDOs exhibit the following advantages: (1) the observation errors converge to zero within a finite time that is predefined by only one design parameter independent of the initial conditions; (2) the designs of the FPTDOs do not require any information of the communication topology (Laplacian matrix); and (3) the exact models of the nonlinear functions are not required by each follower. Finally, simulation examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed FPTDOs.
Application of NEXRAD precipitation data for assessing the implications of low development practices in an ungauged basin
Authors: Aryal Abhiru , Kalra Ajay
Published: August 2023

Hydrologic analysis in watersheds lacking rain gauge stations has been a challenge and even those with stations that do not contain the required amount of data create problems in model verification. So, the study integrates the Next Generation Weather RadarIII precipitation data and the Personal Computer Storm Water Management Model (PCSWMM) for evaluating the model's effectiveness. The study further integrates 100‐year return period precipitation intensity and PCSWMM to generate a one‐dimensional flood risk zone map, which shows the major sub‐catchments under risk zones. Based on the identification of risk zones from PCSWMM, three different low‐impact developments (LIDs), street plants, infiltration trenches, and green roofs are applied independently and uniformly to compare the decrease in flow. Thereafter, the prioritized list of critical sub‐catchments from hydraulic modeling is compared with the compromise programming method, an approach for studying the decrement in flow by increasing LID application (infiltration trench) in the first five critical sub‐catchments, suggesting planners and researchers identify the most critical sub‐catchments and develop future potential strategies.
A neutral zone classifier for three classes with an application to text mining
Authors: Friel Dylan C. , Li Yunzhe , Ellis Benjamin , Jeske Daniel R. , Lee Herbert K. H. , Kass Philip H.
Published: August 2023

A classifier may be limited by its conditional misclassification rates more than its overall misclassification rate. In the case that one or more of the conditional misclassification rates are high, a neutral zone may be introduced to decrease and possibly balance the misclassification rates. In this paper, a neutral zone is incorporated into a three‐class classifier with its region determined by controlling conditional misclassification rates. The neutral zone classifier is illustrated with a text mining application that classifies written comments associated with student evaluations of teaching.
Trade openness helps move towards carbon neutrality—Insight from 114 countries
Authors: Wang Qiang , Wang Lili , Li Rongrong
Published: August 2023

In order to better understand the impact of trade openness and foreign direct investment (FDI) on carbon neutrality (economic growth without increasing carbon emissions), linear fully modified ordinary least squares model and non‐linear panel threshold regression model are applied to explore the impact of trade openness and FDI on economic growth and carbon emissions in 114 countries. The results of the Tapio decoupling model showed that the decoupling between economic growth and carbon emissions is an M‐shaped from 2002‐2015, and a strong decoupling exists between them after 2015. The results from the linear model showed that FDI promotes both economic growth and carbon emissions. Trade openness promotes economic growth, but curbs the increase in carbon emissions. In other word, trade openness contributes to economic without increasing carbon emissions, which is conducive to achieving carbon neutrality. The results of the non‐linear model showed that when FDI crosses the threshold, the effect of FDI on economic growth first promotes and then inhibits and then promotes, the effect of FDI on promoting carbon emissions first increases and then decreases. When trade openness crosses the threshold, the promotion effect of trade openness on economic growth increases, while the inhibitory effect of trade openness on carbon emissions decreases. Finally, the policy implications are proposed.
Bayesian design and analysis of two‐arm cluster randomized trials using assurance
Authors: Wilson Kevin J.
Published: August 2023

We consider the design of a two‐arm superiority cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a continuous outcome. We detail Bayesian inference for the analysis of the trial using a linear mixed‐effects model. The treatment is compared to control using the posterior distribution for the treatment effect. We develop the form of the assurance to choose the sample size based on this analysis, and its evaluation using a two loop Monte Carlo sampling scheme. We assess the proposed approach, considering the effect of different forms of prior distribution, and the number of Monte Carlo samples needed in both loops for accurate determination of the assurance and sample size. Based on this assessment, we provide general advice on each of these choices. We apply the approach to the choice of sample size for a cluster RCT into poststroke incontinence, and compare the resulting sample size to that from assurance based on a Wald test for the treatment effect. The Bayesian approach to design and analysis developed in this article can offer advantages in terms of an increase in the robustness of the chosen sample size to parameter mis‐specification and reduced sample sizes if prior information indicates the treatment effect is likely to be larger than the minimal clinically important difference.
Polymer Template Synthesis of CuOx/Clay Nanocomposites with Controllable CuOx Formation
Authors: Takeuchi Yuki , Ohkubo Takahiro
Published: August 2023

Metal oxides have the excellent functions including high thermal stability, electrical properties, catalytic performance, and adsorption properties of acid gases such as CO2 via the acid‐base interactions. However, they suffer from low reserves, porosity control, and low adsorption efficiency per weight compared with lightweight materials including carbon and silica. To solve these issues, various methods for supporting metal oxides on porous carriers, such as decomposition‐precipitation and impregnation, have been investigated, but controlling the formation of metal oxide on clay nanosheets remains as a challenge. Herein, we developed a soft‐template method for supporting metal oxide (CuOx) nanoparticles on activated clay nanosheets. The intercalation of polyethyleneimine (PEI)−Cu2+ complexes between the layers of clay nanosheets followed by calcination to construct CuOx and remove the PEI templates afforded CuOx/clay nanocomposites. The constructed CuOx/clay nanocomposites had the close porosity to that of clay. Tuning the Cu2+/PEI ratio in PEI−Cu2+ complex allowed to control CuOx states (loadings, particle sizes, etc.). Tuning of the supporting conditions allowed constructing a structure suitable for CO2 uptake. These findings will contribute to the development of the material science of metal oxide nanoparticles and their hybrid materials in diverse fields including CO2 adsorbents, energy devices, and catalysts.
Functional COFs for Electrochemical Sensing: From Design Principles to Analytical Applications
Authors: Wei Yuli , Yang Wu , Guo Hao
Published: August 2023

At present, applications of covalent organic frameworks (COFs), a class of novel crystalline porous materials fabricated by organic structural blocks only containing light elements such as C, H, N, O and B through strong covalent bonds, in electrochemical sensing have entered a period of rapid development and showed great potential in various analytical fields such as environmental analysis, food analysis, pharmaceutical analysis, biological and clinical analysis owing to their unique advantages including regular porosity, large specific surface area, periodical ordered structure, extended π‐conjugated system, abundant functional groups and outstanding thermal and chemical stability. But there are still many concerns that need to be urgently solved for further electrochemical sensing application including improvement of electric conductivity and enhancement of selectivity. Limited by poor conductivity and low recognition ability of primitive COFs, they always need to be further functionalized. To further promote the development of COFs‐based electrochemical sensing technology, here, we summarize and review the recent advances on construction of two‐dimensional functional COFs materials for electrochemical sensing applications and related sensing device setups in detail, including design strategies, preparation methods, modification considerations, sensing principles and analytical applications, and tentatively propose development prospects and outlooks in future.
In Vitro Release Kinetics of Nystatin and Tannic Acid in Artificial Body Fluids from Hydrogels Prepared by Using Polyvinylpyrrolidone Crosslinked with Tannic Acid
Authors: Patel Tejesvi , Lata Roselyn , Sharma Reeha , Rohindra David
Published: August 2023

Biocompatible hydrogels of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) with tannic acid (TA) in the weight ratios of 1 : 0.70 (70 %)–1 : 0.60 (60 %) were prepared and loaded with the antifungal drug, nystatin (NYS). The hydrogel is expected to exhibit a two‐fold (anti‐bacterial and anti‐fungal) characteristics. Infrared spectroscopy (IR), viscometry and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to investigate interactions between PVP and TA. In vitro release kinetics of NYS in simulated body fluid (SBF) and sweat (SS) were studied using ultra‐violet spectroscopy (UV) and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). An increase in the glass transition temperature (Tg) of PVP accompanied with changes observed in the OH stretching, C=O and the C−O−C regions in the IR spectrum in dried PVP/TA hydrogel suggested physical crosslinking. The swelling of the hydrogels in distilled deionized water (DDW), SBF and SS decreased with increasing TA concentration and showed pH sensitivity. TA release followed the Korsmeyer‐Peppas kinetic model regardless of swelling media while NYS followed the Korsmeyer‐Peppas and Hixson‐Crowell cube root law in SS and SBF respectively. TA was active against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus while NYS against Candida albicans. A topical patch was prepared by adhering the drug loaded PVP/TA hydrogel onto silicone strips.