bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of the transcription factor islet‐1 in the central nervous system of nonteleost actinopterygian fish: Relationship with cholinergic and catecholaminergic systems
Authors: Lozano Daniel , Moreno Nerea , Jiménez Sara , Chinarro Adrián , Morona Ruth , López Jesús M.
Published: April 2023

Islet‐1 (Isl1) is one of the most conserved transcription factors in the evolution of vertebrates, due to its continuing involvement in such important functions as the differentiation of motoneurons, among other essential roles in cell fate in the forebrain. Although its functions are thought to be similar in all vertebrates, the knowledge about the conservation of its expression pattern in the central nervous system goes as far as teleosts, leaving the basal groups of actinopterygian fishes overlooked, despite their important phylogenetic position. In order to assess the extent of its conservation among vertebrates, we studied its expression pattern in the central nervous system of selected nonteleost actinopterygian fishes. By means of immunohistochemical techniques, we analyzed the Isl1 expression in the brain, spinal cord, and sensory ganglia of the cranial nerves of young adult specimens of the cladistian species Polypterus senegalus and Erpetoichthys calabaricus, the chondrostean Acipenser ruthenus, and the holostean Lepisosteus oculatus. We also detected the presence of the transcription factor Orthopedia and the enzymes tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) to better locate all the immunoreactive structures in the different brain areas and to reveal the possible coexpression with Isl1. Numerous conserved features in the expression pattern of Isl1 were observed in these groups of fishes, such as populations of cells in the subpallial nuclei, preoptic area, subparaventricular and tuberal hypothalamic regions, prethalamus, epiphysis, cranial motor nuclei and sensory ganglia of the cranial nerves, and the ventral horn of the spinal cord. Double labeling of TH and Isl1 was observed in cells of the preoptic area, the subparaventricular and tuberal hypothalamic regions, and the prethalamus, while virtually all motoneurons in the hindbrain and the spinal cord coexpressed ChAT and Isl1. Altogether, these results show the high degree of conservation of the expression pattern of the transcription factor Isl1, not only among fish, but in the subsequent evolution of vertebrates.
A new finite element with variable Young's modulus
Authors: Mazur Katarzyna , Krawczuk Marek , Dąbrowski Leszek
Published: April 2023

The Finite Element Method (FEM) is a numerical technique that is well‐established in the field of engineering. However, in biological sciences, it is just taking its first steps. Bone tissue is an example of biological material which is exposed to high loads in its natural environment. Practically every movement of the body results in changing stress levels in the bone. Nature copes with this very well but when human intervention is necessary (e.g., endoprostheses implants) bone strength has to be determined based on experience since bone tissue has a very heterogeneous structure. The goal of this paper is to demonstrate how standard FEM calculations may be readily modified to provide for variable material properties of such materials as, for example, bone or wood.
First‐line cetuximab + platinum‐based therapy for recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A real‐world observational study—ENCORE
Authors: Le Tourneau Christophe , Ghiani Massimo , Cau Maria Chiara , Depenni Roberta , Ronzino Graziana , Bonomo Pierluigi , Montesarchio Vincenzo , Leo Luigi , Schulten Jeltje , Salmio Satu , Messinger Diethelm , Sbrana Andrea , Borcoman Edith , Ghi Maria Grazia
Published: April 2023

Background

ENCORE, an observational, prospective, open‐label study, investigated real‐world treatment practices and outcomes with cetuximab plus platinum‐based therapy (PBT) in first‐line (1L) recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M SCCHN).

Aims

This multinational study aimed to investigate the long‐term use of cetuximab plus PBT for 1L R/M SCCHN in a clinical setting. In particular, this study aimed to explore clinical considerations such as the decision to prescribe cetuximab plus PBT in R/M SCCHN, the mode and duration of treatment, and patient outcomes.

Methods and Results

Previously untreated patients with R/M SCCHN whose planned treatment was cetuximab plus PBT were enrolled from 6 countries. Among 221 evaluable patients, planned treatments included cetuximab plus carboplatin (31.2%), cisplatin plus 5‐fluorouracil (31.7%), or carboplatin plus 5‐fluorouracil (23.1%); 3.2% included a taxane, and 45.2% did not include 5‐fluorouracil. Cetuximab treatment was planned for a fixed duration (≤24 weeks) in 15 patients (6.8%) and until disease progression in 206 (93.2%). Median progression‐free survival and overall survival were 6.5 and 10.8 months, respectively. Grade ≥3 adverse events occurred in 39.8% of patients. Serious adverse events occurred in 25.8% of patients; 5.4% were cetuximab‐related.

Conclusion

In patients with R/M SCCHN, first‐line cetuximab plus PBT was feasible and modifiable in a real‐world setting with similar toxicity and efficacy as in the pivotal phase III EXTREME trial. Clinical trial registration number: EMR 062202‐566.
Translating corporate social responsibility into financial performance: Exploring roles of work engagement and strategic coherence
Authors: Kim Byung‐Jik , Chang Youngkyun , Kim Tae‐Hyun
Published: April 2023

This study examines how and why corporate social responsibility (CSR) contributes to firms' financial performance. In particular, we investigate the work engagement of employees as a mediator of CSR and firm's financial performance, as well as the moderating role of strategic coherence. With a three‐wave longitudinal survey data of 3343 organizational members from 518 branches and performance records from one of the largest commercial banks, we have found that employees' work engagement mediates the CSR‐financial performance relationship, and strategic coherence, as captured by customer‐ or competitor‐oriented strategy, differentially moderates the mediated relationship. Specifically, the customer‐oriented strategy strengthens the positive influence of CSR on work engagement and subsequent financial performance, whereas the competitor‐oriented strategy weakens the same. Our findings suggest that organizations can maximize financial returns from CSR through employees' work engagement only when CSR, as a non‐market strategy, aligns with the firm's market strategy.
Effects of new anti‐doping measures on sports performance in elite female athletes
Authors: Bezuglov Eduard , Talibov Oleg , Lazarev Artemii , Waśkiewicz Zbigniew , Iljukov Sergei
Published: April 2023

Studies examining the effects of new anti‐doping measures on sports performance in elite athletes are scarce. During the last decade, a number of new anti‐doping methods for the detection of anabolic androgenic steroids were developed. We hypothesized that the implementation of these methods may cause a decrease of performance in athletic disciplines where given substances are widely used. For this purpose, the performance results for 10 athletic disciplines from country (Country A), which was widely accused of systematic doping use, were gathered and pooled into the 2012–2015 and 2016–2019 periods. These periods were seen as before and following the implementation periods, where the effects of new anti‐doping methods could be manifested. Also, the performance results of their rival athletes from Country B were analyzed for comparison. The incidence of anti‐doping rule violations for both countries was followed. The analysis revealed a decrease in performance results of Country A athletes in eight of 10 disciplines. The performance results of Country B's athletes in seven of 10 disciplines did not and in three disciplines did demonstrate statistically significant change. The decrease in performance of Country A athletes followed a high incidence of steroid detection cases by means of new anti‐doping methods. It is highly likely that the consequent performance decrease is due to the implementation of new anti‐doping methods. The results of the study bring new facts on the effects of new anti‐doping methods implementation and demonstrate following decrease in performance results in population of athletes from the country widely accused of doping use.
Daily ovarian hormone exposure and loss of control eating in adolescent girls: A registered report
Authors: Pang Raina D. , Morales Jeremy C. , Smith Kathryn E. , Murray Stuart B. , Dunton Genevieve F. , Mason Tyler B.
Published: April 2023

Objective

The daily biobehavioral factors that precipitate loss of control eating (LOCE) in adolescent girls are not well known. Ovarian hormone levels are key biological factors associated with the etiology of eating disorders in adolescent girls. Yet, models on how daily ovarian hormone exposure predicts LOCE in adolescent girls are underdeveloped. The goal of this study is to examine the daily patterns and mechanisms of ovarian hormone levels on LOCE across the menstrual cycle in adolescent girls and the mediating roles of food‐related reward anticipation and response inhibition. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) paired with daily hormonal sampling will be used to examine (1) daily associations between within‐person hormones and LOCE, and (2) the mediating role of within‐person food‐related reward anticipation and response inhibition.

Methods

Normally cycling adolescent girls who have reached menarche will provide daily saliva samples for hormone analysis and complete EMA for 35 days. During EMA, girls will report LOCE and will complete task‐based and self‐report measures of food‐related response inhibition and reward anticipation.

Discussion

This work has implications for the development of new real‐world biobehavioral models of LOCE in adolescent girls, which will guide theory improvements and treatment for LOCE. Results will provide preliminary evidence for treatment targets for novel interventions for adolescent girls—for example, a response inhibition intervention.

Public Significance

Adolescent eating disorders are severe mental health conditions, often marked by loss of control eating. Estrogen and progesterone play a role in the development and persistence of loss of control eating. The current study will examine how daily exposure to estrogen and progesterone predicts loss of control eating in adolescent girls and identify possible daily mechanisms linking estrogen and progesterone exposure and loss of control eating.
Physiologically vulnerable or resilient? Tropical birds, global warming, and redistributions
Authors: Monge Otto , Maggini Ivan , Schulze Christian H. , Dullinger Stefan , Fusani Leonida
Published: April 2023

Tropical species are considered to be more threatened by climate change than those of other world regions. This increased sensitivity to warming is thought to stem from the assumptions of low physiological capacity to withstand temperature fluctuations and already living near their limits of heat tolerance under current climatic conditions. For birds, despite thorough documentation of community‐level rearrangements, such as biotic attrition and elevational shifts, there is no consistent evidence of direct physiological sensitivity to warming. In this review, we provide an integrative outlook into the physiological response of tropical birds to thermal variation and their capacity to cope with warming. In short, evidence from the literature suggests that the assumed physiological sensitivity to warming attributed to tropical biotas does not seem to be a fundamental characteristic of tropical birds. Tropical birds do possess the physiological capacities to deal with fluctuating temperatures, including high‐elevation species, and are prepared to withstand elevated levels of heat, even those living in hot and arid environments. However, there are still many unaddressed points that hinder a more complete understanding of the response of tropical birds to warming, such as cooling capacities when exposed to combined gradients of heat and humidity, the response of montane species to heat, and thermoregulation under increased levels of microclimatic stress in disturbed ecosystems. Further research into how populations and species from different ecological contexts handle warming will increase our understanding of current and future community rearrangements in tropical birds.
Biventricular cardiac power reserve in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Alogna Alessio , Omar Massar , Popovic Dejana , Sorimachi Hidemi , Omote Kazunori , Reddy Yogesh N.V. , Pieske Burkert , Borlaug Barry A.
Published: April 2023

Aims

Cardiac and extracardiac abnormalities play important roles in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Biventricular cardiac power output (BCPO) quantifies the total rate of hydraulic work performed by both ventricles, suggesting that it may help to identify patients with HFpEF and more severe cardiac impairments to better individualize treatment.

Methods and results

Patients with HFpEF (n = 398) underwent comprehensive echocardiography and invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Patients were categorized as low BCPO reserve (n = 199, < median of 1.57 W) or preserved BCPO reserve (n = 199). As compared to those with preserved BCPO reserve, those with low reserve were older and leaner, with more atrial fibrillation, higher N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels, worse renal function, more impaired left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain, worse LV diastolic function and right ventricular longitudinal function. Cardiac filling pressures and pulmonary artery pressures at rest were higher in low BCPO reserve, but central pressures were similar during exercise to those with preserved BCPO reserve. Exertional systemic and pulmonary vascular resistances were higher and exercise capacity was more impaired in those with low BCPO reserve. Reduced BCPO reserve was associated with increased risk for the composite endpoint of heart failure hospitalization or death over 2.9 (interquartile range 0.9–4.5) years of follow‐up (hazard ratio 2.77, 95% confidence interval 1.73–4.42, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Inability to enhance BCPO during exercise is associated with more advanced HFpEF, increased systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance, reduced exercise capacity and increased adverse events in patients with HFpEF. Novel therapies that enhance biventricular reserve merit further investigation for patients with this phenotype.
The phenol efficient degradation using co‐culture coupled with enhanced electricity generation capability
Authors: Zhan Yue , Ma Yamei , Cai Ting , Gao Shengchao , Zhang Zhen , Gao Tianpeng , Liu Ying
Published: April 2023

The co‐culture of strain Citrobacter sp. RDC and Geobacter sulfurreducens PCA was used in this study and it was found that the co‐culture using 200 mg/L phenol as carbon source exhibited higher maximum current density than using the single strain RDC and G. sulfurreducens PCA, respectively. Meanwhile, the co‐culture was used to generate electricity by degrading phenol with the current density of 699.07 μA/cm2 by using 200 mg/L phenol as the sole carbon source, which was higher than that only using G. sulfurreducens PCA (236.20 μA/cm2). Especially, the degradation efficiency of 200 mg/L phenol by co‐culture can reach 55.16 % within 36 h being 4.16‐fold higher than the single strain G. sulfurreducens PCA. Furthermore, the component ratio of two strains was optimized for increasing electricity generation using 500 mg/L phenol as carbon source. The maximum current density was 501.54 μA/cm2 under the ratio of 3 : 1 for strain RDC to G. sulfurreducens PCA. These results highlight that phenol is good carbon source for co‐culture to produce electricity. The co‐culture system provides a promising application pathway for phenol degradation treatment coupled with electricity generation in the future.
HBCU renaissance: Schools gain enrollment, funding, and donations
Authors: D'Orio Wayne
Published: April 2023

ALEXANDRIA, VA — HBCUs have been on a roll recently. Federal funding has risen significantly, enrollments for many of the schools are up, and donations have surged.
Leverage Title V grant funding to scale student success projects on campus
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2023

CHICAGO — Waubonsee Community College, a Hispanic‐serving institution an hour west of Chicago, has been awarded three consecutive Title V grants, starting in 2010, for building equity and helping scale projects that lead to increased completion rates for Latinx and adult students.
Association of ictal aphasia with hypoperfusion in language areas in temporal lobe epilepsy patients
Authors: Damian Andrés , Legnani Mariana , Braga Patricia , Ferrando Rodolfo
Published: April 2023

Ictal clinical phenomenology, including aphasia, is usually associated with increased regional cerebral perfusion. We present an unusual pattern of ictal cerebral perfusion in three patients with pharmacoresistant, lesional temporal lobe epilepsy and ictal/postictal aphasia studied with prolonged video‐EEG, ictal, and interictal SPECT and MRI for pre‐surgical evaluation. Subtraction of ictal‐interictal SPECT images co‐registered with MRI (SISCOM) showed ictal hyperperfusion in the temporal epileptogenic area in all patients. In addition, hypoperfusion of Broca's area in one case, Wernicke's area in other patient, and both areas in the remaining one were observed. Ictal aphasia in these patients may be explained by functional inhibition of a primary language area, driven by the epileptogenic network. This pattern can contribute to understand the pathophysiology of some ictal signs, with an impact on the evaluation of individual surgical risks.
Role of EEG as a monitoring tool in patients with glucose transporter type I deficiency syndrome (GLUT1‐DS) on ketogenic diet
Authors: Toro‐Perez Juan , Healy Sarah , Sell Erick , Bulusu Srinivas , Whiting Sharon
Published: April 2023

Rationale

Glucose transporter type I deficiency syndrome (GLUT1‐DS) is the fourth most frequent single‐gene epilepsy refractory to standard antiepileptic drugs. Multiple seizure types and variable electrographic findings are reported. Ketogenic diet is expected to result in the complete resolution of the epileptiform activity.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients with GLUT1‐DS on ketogenic diet between December 2012 and February 2022 was done. Analysis of the EEGs prior to and during the ketogenic diet was done.

Results

34 patients on ketogenic diet were reviewed. Ten had clinical diagnosis of GLUT1‐DS, and seven of them had genetic confirmation. 71% were female. The average age at seizure onset was 13.85 m.o. (range: 3–60, SD ±20.52), at diagnosis was 44.57 m.o (range: 19–79), and at the onset of ketogenic diet was 46.43 m.o. (range: 20–83). 29 months (range: 13–38) delay between symptoms onset until diagnosis was noticed. At the diagnosis 100% reported seizures: 71% myoclonic, 57% generalized motor, 57% absence, 28% atonic, and 14% focal motor. Also, 71% abnormal eye movements, 57% ataxia, and 28% intolerance to fasting. 86% had normal brain MRI. 71% had abnormal EEG. All were on ketogenic diet, and four on classical (1.75:1–2.25:1 ratio). Six were clinically seizure‐free after the ketogenic diet. EEG features included notch delta, focal spike and wave, and generalized spike/polyspike and wave. One patient had bilateral independent centrotemporal spikes. Spikes showed high and very high amplitude in all of them (>200 μV). The variation of the spike index decreased in three patients but increased in two.

Conclusion

Ketogenic diet is the choice treatment for patients with GLUT1‐DS. Electrographic features could show worsening after initiation of the ketogenic diet even with seizure control. EEG did not prove to be a reliable tool for adjusting KD in our cohort. Centrotemporal spikes have not been reported in patients with GLUT‐1 DS.
Multifactor analysis of roof deformation and reasonable determination of the unsupported distance of a coal roadway heading face based on response surface method
Authors: Su Chao , Li Peng , Gong Peilin , Liu Chang
Published: April 2023

This paper is aimed at the problems of multiple factors influencing the roof stability near a heading face and unreasonable values of the unsupported distance leading to a slow excavation speed. The behavior of the direct roof subsidence in the unsupported area is analyzed, and numerical simulation and the response surface method are used to study the key factors affecting the roof deformation and their interaction relations. The results indicate that roof strength is the most critical factor affecting deformation and failure, followed by soft rock thickness, unsupported distance, and support strength. The interaction analysis in Zhaozhuang Coal Mine's 33082 lane shows that it is difficult to control the roof subsidence when the unsupported distance is more than 2 m and the soft rock thickness is more than 4 m. After the unsupported distance is set to about 2 m and the support strength is increased to 0.25 MPa, the excavation speed approximately doubles, and the overall roadway is stable and controllable. By implementing field applications, the rationality of the research approach was confirmed.
High‐performance flexible supercapacitor based on morphology tuned polypyrrole/molybdenum disulfide nanocomposites
Authors: Yadav Rimjhim , Saini Ayushi , Choudhary Jyoti , Sardana Silki , Ohlan Anil , Singh Kuldeep , Singh Surinder P.
Published: April 2023

Polypyrrole (PPy) is the most studied material among the conducting polymers for high‐performance supercapacitors. However, due to morphology collapse, polypyrrole exhibits poor cycling ability and lower charge storage capacity, limiting its real‐world applications. To address these issues herein, the binary nanocomposites of PPy with MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide) NSs (nanostructures) in two different morphologies, that is, cenosphere (PPyC) and nanotubes (PPyNTs), have been prepared through in situ polymerization technique. The electrochemical performances of PPyC/MoS2 and PPyNTs/MoS2 nanocomposite are compared to define the most favorable morphology when PPy nanostructures are utilized as the electrode materials for creating flexible supercapacitors. The rational design of PPyNTs/MoS2 nanocomposite consisting of dense wrapping of PPyNTs on MoS2 leads to high specific capacitance (Csp) up to 481 F/g at 0.5 A/g. After 2000 charge‐discharge cycles, a decline of 5.6% in the specific capacitance of PPyNTs/MoS2 nanocomposite was observed, primarily attributed to the presence of chemically active sites on MoS2 nanosheets. This led to a strong alignment with the nitrogen group of pyrrole rings in the polymer chain to form a robust interconnected framework between tubular PPy and sheet‐like MoS2. This outstanding performance of PPyNTs/MoS2 nanocomposite resulted in designing futuristic flexible supercapacitors.
Perception and attitudes of street food vendors toward the healthiness of meals prepared and sold in Dodoma
Authors: Basheikh Zalia Omary , Jumbe Theresia , Kulwa Kissa
Published: April 2023

Consumption of street meals among urban dwellers has become inevitable, especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries. It has been linked to higher incidence of dietary‐related diseases. Vendors' perceptions and attitudes toward the healthiness of meals can influence nutritional quality of the offered meals. Therefore, the study aimed to assess perceptions and attitudes of vendors toward healthy and unhealthy meals as well as the healthiness of meals they prepare and sell. A cross‐sectional study was carried out among 384 street food vendors. Face‐to‐face interviews were conducted using semistructured questionnaire. Pearson Chi‐square test and logistic regression analysis were used in comparing and testing for the association of perceptions and attitudes to vendors' characteristics. Street food vendors that took part in this study demonstrated good perceptions based on what they perceived to be healthy meals (58.33%) and positive attitudes (95.57%) toward preparation and provision of healthy meals. Perceptions were associated with sex (p = .007), education level (p = .002), and investment cost (p = .000). Results from logistic regression showed that better perceptions of healthy meals were associated with being female (OR = 2.46, p‐value < .031), having higher education (OR = 11.88, p‐value < .042), and vending experience of 1–5 years and more than 5 years (OR = 3.17, 2.95, p‐value < .019, .039, respectively) while having moderate investment cost showed significant lower chances of having better perceptions (OR = 0.33, p‐value < .001). Attitudes were associated with sex (p = .002), age (p = .002), marital status (p = .013), education (p = .009), and vending experience (p = .008). Female vendors, having 25 years of age and above, living with partners, with tertiary education, and having vending experience of more than 1 year had shown to have more positive attitudes toward healthy meals. Generally, street food vendors had good perceptions and attitudes toward healthy meals. This implies possible room for change and adoption of better ways of preparing meals. These findings could be used as a stepping stone in improving nutritional and healthy quality of street meals. Increased efforts are needed on the inclusion of nutritional aspects of healthy meals as they were merely considered by vendors. Future interventions on these vendors should focus more on male vendors, vendors with little vending experience, and little education as they had shown to have relatively poorer attitudes and perceptions compared to other groups.
Development of machine learning and multivariable models for predicting blood transfusion in head and neck microvascular reconstruction for risk‐stratified patient blood management
Authors: Puladi Behrus , Ooms Mark , Rieg Annette , Taubert Max , Rashad Ashkan , Hölzle Frank , Röhrig Rainer , Modabber Ali
Published: April 2023

Background

Although blood transfusions have adverse consequences for microvascular head and neck reconstruction, they are frequently administered. Pre‐identifying patients would allow risk‐stratified patient blood management.

Methods

Development of machine learning (ML) and logistic regression (LR) models based on retrospective inclusion of 657 patients from 2011 to 2021. Internal validation and comparison with models from the literature by external validation. Development of a web application and a score chart.

Results

Our models achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC‐AUC) of up to 0.825, significantly outperforming LR models from the literature. Preoperative hemoglobin, blood volume, duration of surgery and flap type/size were strong predictors.

Conclusions

The use of additional variables improves the prediction for blood transfusion, while models seems to have good generalizability due to surgical standardization and underlying physiological mechanism. The ML models developed showed comparable predictive performance to an LR model. However, ML models face legal hurdles, whereas score charts based on LR could be used after further validation.
Effectiveness of interventions to contain out‐of‐pocket‐expenditure in lower‐middle income countries: A systematic review and synthesis
Authors: Sugunan Aswin , Rajasekharan Pillai K , George Anice
Published: April 2023

The extant literature on myriad interventional strategies to contain the adverse financial impacts of soaring out‐of‐pocket expenditures commands systematic auditing and knowledge synthesis. The purpose of this study is to answer these specific questions. What are the interventions present in lower‐middle‐income countries? How effective are those interventions in reducing the household's out‐of‐pocket expenditure? Are the studies suffering from any methodological bias? The imprints for this systematic review are obtained from Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest and CINAHL. These manuscripts are identified in full compliance with PRISMA guidelines. The documents identified have undergone quality assessment checks using the ‘Effective Public Health Practice Project’. The review identified Interventions that are found to reduce out‐of‐pocket expenditure are patient educational programs, a combination of financial assistance, healthcare facility quality upgrade measures, and early disease detection strategies. However, these reductions represented marginal changes in the total health expenditure of patients. The role of non‐health insurance interventions and the combination of health insurance and non‐health insurance measures are highlighted. This review concludes by emphasising the need for further research to fill the knowledge gap by building on the suggestions put forward.
Flow resistance of flexible vegetation in real‐scale drainage channels
Authors: Nicosia Alessio , Carollo Francesco Giuseppe , Palmeri Vincenzo , Ferro Vito
Published: April 2023

The definition of simple and accurate methods to estimate flow resistance in vegetated channels is still a challenging issue in soil bioengineering practices and programming riparian vegetation management to control channel conveyance capacity, sediment deposition, and flooding propensity. In this paper, measurements collected by Errico et al. (2018, 2019) in drainage channels colonized by common reed (Phragmites australis) were used to study the effect of flexible vegetation and its management in flow resistance estimate. At first, a theoretical flow resistance equation, obtained applying dimensional analysis and incomplete self‐similarity condition for the velocity distribution of an open channel flow, was briefly summarized. Then, this flow resistance equation was calibrated and tested by open‐field hydraulic experiments carried out by Errico et al. (2018, 2019) at the real scale of existing vegetated drainage channels. In particular, the Γ function of the power velocity profile was empirically related to the slope energy and the flow Froude number by using the available measurements. Taking into account the hydrological regime of the flow in the investigated channels, the original data set was divided into two sub‐data sets (calibrating and testing data set) exploring the same range of measured discharges. The calibration and testing of the flow resistance equation were carried out without distinguishing measurements corresponding to different vegetation conditions (full‐vegetated, half‐vegetated, non‐vegetated, central vegetation cut, extensive vegetation cut). The analysis demonstrated that the theoretical flow resistance equation allows an accurate estimate of the Darcy‐Weisbach friction factor which is characterized by errors that are always less than 10% and less than or equal to 5% for 90.9% of the investigated cases. The finding of this study also allowed to evaluate the effects of different vegetation management scenarios on flow resistance.
A case of repeat oligoprogressive castration‐resistant prostate cancer treated with pulmonary metastasectomy
Authors: Soma Takahiko , Yoshida Soichiro , Wakejima Ryo , Taguchi Towako , Fukuda Shohei , Tanaka Hajime , Yokoyama Minato , Ohashi Kenichi , Okubo Kenichi , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Several retrospective studies have demonstrated the efficacy of progressive site‐directed therapy for oligoprogressive castration‐resistant prostate cancer. However, eligible patients for progressive site‐directed therapy in these studies were limited to oligoprogressive castration‐resistant prostate cancer with bone or lymph node metastases without visceral metastases, and little is known about the efficacy of progressive site‐directed therapy for oligoprogressive castration‐resistant prostate cancer with visceral metastases.

Case presentation

We report a case with castration‐resistant prostate cancer previously treated with enzalutamide and docetaxel, in which only a solitary lung metastasis was identified throughout the course of treatment. The patient underwent thoracoscopic pulmonary metastasectomy with a diagnosis of repeat oligoprogressive castration‐resistant prostate cancer. Only androgen deprivation therapy was continued and his prostate‐specific antigen levels remained undetectable for 9 months after surgery.

Conclusion

Our case suggests that progressive site‐directed therapy may be effective for carefully selected repeat OP‐CRPC with a lung metastasis.
Treatment of nail clippings with ethyl alcohol improves the efficacy of Raman spectroscopy in the diagnosis of Trichophyton rubrum onychomycosis
Authors: Petrokilidou Chrysoula , Gaitanis Georgios , Velegraki Aristea , Bassukas Ioannis D. , Kourkoumelis Nikolaos
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this work was to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of nail Raman spectroscopy for fungal nail infections, specifically onychomycosis caused by Trichophyton rubrum. The study assessed the different ethyl alcohol retention rates between control and infected nails after soaking nail clippings in ethanolic solutions and drying. Results revealed that ethyl alcohol completely evaporated from infected nail samples, while significant amounts were still present in control samples. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to discriminate control from infected nails and showed superior group separation when nails were treated with ethyl alcohol. PCA loadings plot attributed the efficient classification to the νs(CCO) Raman vibrational mode of ethyl alcohol. As Raman spectroscopy can detect minute concentration changes of ethyl alcohol in nails and the deterioration caused by onychomycosis accelerates its evaporation, a simple and rapid method for detecting T. rubrum onychomycosis is proposed.
Role of galectin‐3 in the elastic response of radial growth phase melanoma cancer cells
Authors: Herrera‐Reinoza Nataly , Tortelli Junior Tharcisio Citrangulo , Teixeira Fernanda de Sá , Chammas Roger , Salvadori Maria Cecília
Published: April 2023

Melanoma is originated from the malignant transformation of the melanocytes and is characterized by a high rate of invasion, the more serious stage compromising deeper layers of the skin and eventually leading to the metastasis. A high mortality due to melanoma lesion persists because most of melanoma lesions are detected in advanced stages, which decreases the chances of survival. The identification of the principal mechanics implicated in the development and progression of melanoma is essential to devise new early diagnosis strategies. Cell mechanics is related with a lot of cellular functions and processes, for instance motility, differentiation, migration and invasion. In particular, the elastic modulus (Young's modulus) is a very explored parameter to describe the cell mechanical properties; most cancer cells reported in the literature smaller elasticity modulus. In this work, we show that the elastic modulus of melanoma cells lacking galectin‐3 is significantly lower than those of melanoma cells expressing galectin‐3. More interestingly, the gradient of elastic modulus in cells from the nuclear region towards the cell periphery is more pronounced in shGal3 cells.

Research Highlights

AFM imaging and force spectroscopy were used to investigate the morphology and elasticity properties of healthy HaCaT cells and melanoma cells WM1366, with (shSCR) and without (shGal3) expression of galectin‐3.

It is shown the effect of galectin‐3 protein on the elastic properties of cells: the cells without expression of galectin‐3 presents lower elastic modulus.

By the results, we suggest here that galectin‐3 could be used as an effective biomarker of malignancy in both melanoma diagnostic and prognosis.
Performance of the shared decision‐making process scale for use in evaluation of hereditary cancer genetic testing decisions
Authors: Gore Moses Rachel , Nieters Amanda , Valentine K. D. , Wooters Mackenzie , Wynn Julia , Wardyn Amy , Amendola Laura , Sepucha Karen R. , Shannon Kristen M.
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to evaluate feasibility, acceptability, reliability, and validity of the existing four‐item Shared Decision Making (SDM) Process Scale for use in evaluating genetic testing decisions. Patients from a large hereditary cancer genetics practice were invited to participate in a two‐part survey after completing pre‐test genetic counseling. The online survey included the SDM Process Scale and the SURE scale, a measure of decisional conflict. SDM Process scores were compared to SURE scores to test convergent validity, and respondents were sent a second survey 1 week later to assess retest reliability. The response rate was 65% (n = 259/398) and missing data was low (<1%). SDM scores ranged from zero to four with a mean of 2.3 (SD = 1.1). Retest reliability was good, with intraclass correlation of 0.84, 95% confidence interval (0.79, 0.88). No relationship was found between SDM Process scores and decisional conflict (p = 0.46), likely because 85% of participants reported no decisional conflict. The four‐item SDM Process Scale demonstrated feasibility, acceptability, and retest reliability, but not convergent validity with decisional conflict. These findings provide initial evidence for use of this scale to measure patient perceptions of SDM in pre‐test counseling for hereditary cancer genetic testing.
Examining Complex Problem Solving in Communities Through the Lens of Kirton'S Adaption‐Innovation Theory
Authors: Rodriguez Mary T. , Bush Sarah A.
Published: April 2023

The current philosophical paper brings the concepts of community, complex adaptive systems, wicked problems, and Kirton's (2011) adaption‐innovation (A‐I) theory together as a model to encourage practitioners to recognize the importance of cognitive diversity for sustainable and impactful solutions. Leadership and change practitioners often face the complexity of addressing community based wicked problems. A‐I theory offers an additional perspective to help teams foster structural changes in these complex adaptive systems.
Implicit Social Cognition: The Hidden Element Affecting Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging on Diverse Collaborative Teams
Authors: Anderson James C.
Published: April 2023

Currently, organizations are working to create a culture that embraces diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. However, as these organizations become more diverse, implicit social cognition or unconscious bias increases, leading to unproductive behaviors and organizational inefficiencies. Yet, diverse teams can be more productive, creative, and increase opportunities to expand into diverse markets if they are managed properly. Accordingly, Kirton's Cognitive Function Schema, a useful framework that leaders can use to identify and address barriers to collaboration among diverse teams will be discussed. Further, considerations for recognizing, appreciating, and utilizing the unique talents of each team member will be introduced.
Working with Adaption‐Innovation in Leadership Practice: What Works and What's Missing?
Authors: Sheffield Rob
Published: April 2023

The current paper reviews examples of working with organizational leaders and integrating adaption‐innovation (A‐I) theory and its associated psychometric, the Kirton's Adaption‐Innovation Inventory (KAI; Kirton, 1985). Three specific in‐depth cases are reviewed and analyzed, and a series of learning insights are shared. A set of key enabling factors are argued to transform A‐I related insights to valuable actions. These include emotional intelligence capabilities focused on self‐and‐others; the role of a structured learning process to aid reflection and action; effective coping behavior that sustains the options for action; and examples of the sourcing and use of diversity. Areas for further research into practice are also described.
Poleward migration of tropical cyclones in the western North Pacific and its regional impacts on rainfall in Asia
Authors: Zhang Long , Ma Tianfang , Yoon Sun‐Kwon , Lee Taesam , Kim Jong‐Suk , Chen Jie , Xiong Lihua
Published: April 2023

The region of Asia, which is surrounded by the western North Pacific (WNP), is one of the areas most affected by tropical cyclones (TCs). Since the 20th century, the characteristics and regional impact of TCs in this area have changed significantly, possibly due to global warming. However, the relationships between changes in the translation speed of TCs, poleward migration and TC‐induced rainfall in the WNPs have not been well investigated. Using daily precipitation and TC data from 1979 to 2020, this diagnostic study explored the poleward migration of TCs, changes in their TC translation speeds and the effects of TCs on countries along the Pacific Rim. Over the 42‐year study period, TCs experienced a decrease in intensity, lifespan, frequency and translation speeds and a northwestward migration in the genesis position, recurving position and tracks. However, the intensity and lifespan of high‐intensity TCs, which are defined as those with intensities exceeding 75% of all TCs, have increased significantly. Consequently, daily maximum precipitation of TCs decreased significantly with a τ value ranging from 0.294 to 0.442 for the M‐K test on inland China, the Philippines and Myanmar, but increased significantly with a τ value ranging from −0.410 to −0.615 in coastal areas of East Asia, especially China and northern Kalimantan Island, as confirmed by the distribution of TC‐induced precipitation. Our findings indicate that coastal East Asian countries are becoming increasingly vulnerable to high‐intensity TCs.
Ethanol lock therapy increases mechanical catheter complications in a pediatric intestinal failure population: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Fligor Scott C. , Hirsch Thomas I. , Tsikis Savas T. , Joiner Malachi M. , Mitchell Paul D. , Carbeau Sarah , McClelland Jennifer , Carey Alexandra , Gura Kathleen M. , Puder Mark
Published: April 2023

Background

Ethanol lock therapy (ELT) decreases central line–associated bloodstream infections; however, the effect on mechanical catheter complications is unclear. In recent years, ELT has become unavailable for many patients, often resulting in high‐risk patients switching back to heparin locks. We investigated the impact of ELT on mechanical catheter complications during this period.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of the Boston Children's Hospital intestinal rehabilitation program from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2020. Pediatric patients with a central venous catheter requiring parenteral support for 3 months were included. The primary outcome was the composite rate of mechanical catheter complications (repairs and replacements).

Results

The pediatric intestinal failure cohort consisted of 122 patients. Forty‐four percent received ELT for the entirety of the study period, 29% used only heparin locks, and 27% used ELT and heparin locks at different periods. During ELT use, there was 1.65 times the risk of mechanical catheter complications (composite outcome of repairs and replacements) compared with heparin locks (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR] = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.18–2.31). Current ELT use was associated with 2.3 times the risk of catheter repairs (aIRR = 2.30, 95% CI = 1.36–3.89) but no significant increase in catheter replacement risk (aIRR = 1.41, 95% CI = 0.91–2.20).

Conclusion

In the largest pediatric intestinal failure cohort evaluated to date, the use of ELT, compared with heparin locks, increased the risk of mechanical catheter complications. Mechanical complications carry morbidity requiring urgent clinic or emergency department visits and additional procedures. The investigation of alternative lock solutions is warranted.
Ultrasound‐Guided Suprascapular Nerve Block at Suprascapular Notch‐Do We Really Target Suprascapular Notch or Not? Where Is Our Real Target?
Authors: Keles Aslinur , Ozkan Feyza Unlu , Giray Esra , Keles Papatya , Karip Burak , Kahraman Ahmet Nedim , Aktas İlknur
Published: April 2023

Ultrasound (US)‐guided suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) is a widely used procedure and while describing the US‐guided SSNB in the suprascapular notch, the suprascapular fossa is often visualized and injection is performed in that location. Although it can be done in both location, to inject the right area, the terminology should be settled and the visualization of these areas which are unclear and confusing in the literature should be clarified. In this sense, we showed the course of the nerve on a cadaver and briefly describe a protocol to correctly visualize the suprascapular notch with US.
Insectivorous bat foraging tracks the availability of aquatic flies (Diptera)
Authors: Metcalfe Anya N. , Fritzinger Carol A. , Weller Theodore J. , Dodrill Michael J. , Muehlbauer Jeffrey D. , Yackulic Charles B. , Holton P. Brandon , Szydlo Cheyenne M. , Durning Laura E. , Sankey Joel B. , Kennedy Theodore A.
Published: April 2023

Rivers and their adjacent riparian zones are model ecosystems for observing cross‐ecosystem energy transfers. Aquatic insects emerging from streams, for example, are resource subsidies that support riparian consumers such as birds, spiders, lizards, and bats. We collaborated with recreational river runners in Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA, to record acoustic bat activity and sample riparian insects using light traps at dusk from April through October 2017–2020. River runners collected these data on 1,428 events over 611 sampling nights at 410 sites throughout a 470‐km segment of the Colorado River. We documented 71 insect taxa in light traps and recorded 19 bat species with acoustic detectors. We hypothesized that bat activity along this highly regulated river segment would be influenced primarily by variation in prey availability, as compared to other habitat descriptors. We predicted that bat activity would be positively related to aquatic insect catch rates and unrelated to terrestrial insect abundance. We fit Bayesian regression models to test these hypotheses and to quantify the relationship between bat activity and a suite of environmental variables: time of year, time of day, distance from perennial tributaries, distance from rapids, channel width, geomorphic reach, tall vegetation cover, air temperature, and lunar phase. Bat activity was positively related to the abundance of aquatic flies (Diptera), which outcompeted all other prey categories and structural habitat descriptors in our models. Within our dusk sampling period, activity of small myotis (California myotis [Myotis californicus] and Yuma myotis [M. yumanensis]) was high late in the evening and canyon bats (Parastrellus hesperus), conversely, were more active early in the evening. Activity of canyon bats varied seasonally, with peak activity in August. Our results support the hypothesis that aquatic prey, specifically aquatic flies, are key predictors of bat activity along a large, regulated river corridor and demonstrate the power of community science as a tool for ecosystem monitoring.