bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of electrostimulation and magnetic stimulation in patients with optic neuropathy: A mechanistic review
Authors: Khalili Mohammad Reza , Shadmani Athar , Sanie‐Jahromi Fatemeh
Published: June 2024

Visual impairment caused by optic neuropathies is irreversible because retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), the specialized neurons of the retina, do not have the capacity for self‐renewal and self‐repair. Blindness caused by optic nerve neuropathies causes extensive physical, financial, and social consequences in human societies. Recent studies on different animal models and humans have established effective strategies to prevent further RGC degeneration and replace the cells that have deteriorated. In this review, we discuss the application of electrical stimulation (ES) and magnetic field stimulation (MFS) in optic neuropathies, their mechanisms of action, their advantages, and limitations. ES and MFS can be applied effectively in the field of neuroregeneration. Although stem cells are becoming a promising approach for regenerating RGCs, the inhibitory environment of the CNS and the long visual pathway from the optic nerve to the superior colliculus are critical barriers to overcome. Scientific evidence has shown that adjuvant treatments, such as the application of ES and MFS help direct thetransplanted RGCs to extend their axons and form new synapses in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, these techniques improve CNS neuroplasticity and decrease the inhibitory effects of the CNS. Possible mechanisms mediating the effects of electrical current on biological tissues include the release of anti‐inflammatory cytokines, improvement of microcirculation, stimulation of cell metabolism, and modification of stem cell function. ES and MFS have the potential to promote angiogenesis, direct axon growth toward the intended target, and enhance appropriate synaptogenesis in optic nerve regeneration.
Trait‐specific sensitive developmental windows: Wing growth best integrates weather conditions encountered throughout the development of nestling Alpine swifts
Authors: Masoero Giulia , Dumas Michela N. , Martin Julien G. A. , Bize Pierre
Published: June 2024

The size and growth patterns of nestling birds are key determinants of their survival up to fledging and long‐term fitness. However, because traits such as feathers, skeleton and body mass can follow different developmental trajectories, our understanding of the impact of adverse weather on development requires insights into trait‐specific sensitive developmental windows. We analysed data from nestling Alpine swifts in Switzerland measured throughout growth up to the age of 50 days (i.e. fledging between 50 and 70 days), for wing length and body mass (2693 nestlings in 25 years) and sternum length (2447 nestlings in 22 years). We show that the sensitive developmental windows for wing and sternum length corresponded to the periods of trait‐specific peak growth, which span almost the whole developmental period for wings and the first half for the sternum. Adverse weather conditions during these periods slowed down growth and reduced size. Although nestling body mass at 50 days showed the greatest inter‐individual variation, this was explained by weather in the two days before measurement rather than during peak growth. Interestingly, the relationship between temperature and body mass was not linear, and the initial sharp increase in body mass associated with the increase in temperature was followed by a moderate drop on hot days, likely linked to heat stress. Nestlings experiencing adverse weather conditions during wing growth had lower survival rates up to fledging and fledged at later ages, presumably to compensate for slower wing growth. Overall, our results suggest that measures of feather growth and, to some extent, skeletal growth best capture the consequences of adverse weather conditions throughout the whole development of offspring, while body mass better reflects the short, instantaneous effects of weather conditions on their body reserves (i.e. energy depletion vs. storage in unfavourable vs. favourable conditions).
Synthesis of Fluorine‐Containing C2‐Tetrasubstituted Indolin–3‐ones via Rapid Incorporation of Difluoroacetate Radical Into 2‐Aryl‐3H‐indol‐3‐ones
Authors: Li Qian , Zhao Shi‐Na , Li Ganpeng , He Yonghui , Zhao Xiao‐Jing
Published: June 2024

Here, we have successfully achieved the addition of difluoroacetate radicals to 2‐aryl‐3H‐indol‐3‐ones, enabling various difluoroalkylations of C2‐tetrasubstituted 2‐aryl indolin‐3‐ones in a highly efficient and economical manner. It is worth mentioning that these difluoroalkylation compounds can be easily transformed into various derivatives under mild reaction conditions. Control experiments suggest the involvement of ethyl difluoroacetate radical species in the reaction.
Impact of failure mode uncertainty on seismic fragility and collapse risk of buildings
Authors: Opabola Eyitayo A. , Liel Abbie , Elwood Kenneth
Published: June 2024

Laboratory tests on nominally identical reinforced concrete (RC) components have demonstrated the existence of failure mode variability and its significant impact on the strength and deformation capacity of RC components. In comparison with record‐to‐record and modeling uncertainties, the impact of failure mode uncertainty on the seismic fragility of RC structural systems has received less attention. This study presents a methodology for propagating failure mode variability in the probabilistic seismic assessment of RC structural systems. In the proposed methodology, strength hierarchy calculations are used to identify the structural system's susceptibility to failure mode variability. Subsequently, a number of segregate models corresponding to the number of failure mode combinations are developed. Nonlinear response history analyses of the segregates are used to quantify each segregate's seismic fragility and risk. Finally, the total probability theorem is used to derive the combined seismic fragility of the structure. The proposed methodology is demonstrated using an older‐type (pre‐1970s) four‐story RC frame building archetype with ground floor columns susceptible to failure mode switch between flexure‐ and flexure‐shear mechanisms. The results show that the seismic fragility and collapse risk of the RC buildings with failure mode variability significantly changes when failure mode variability is propagated. In the example, accounting for component‐level failure mode variability can shift the median collapse fragility by more than 20%. Furthermore, the collapse risk (i.e., probability of collapse in 50 years) of the archetype changed by at least 30%. Similar changes may be observed in other types of structures with significant failure mode uncertainty, not limited to RC structures.
A real‐time hybrid simulation framework for reliability‐based design optimization of structures subjected to pulse‐like ground motions
Authors: Peng Changle , Guo Tong , Chen Cheng , Xu Weijie
Published: June 2024

Reliability‐based design optimization (RBDO) traditionally relies primarily on high‐fidelity and computationally expensive simulations to search for and evaluate design solutions. However, significant disparities could emerge for complex nonlinear behavior that are challenging for numerical modeling. In contrast to mitigating the impact of inaccurate numerical modeling through optimization algorithms, laboratory experiments realistically capture the complex nonlinear behavior of structures or their components. Real‐time hybrid simulation (RTHS) is widely considered as an efficient and cost‐effective technique for integrating numerical modeling with experimental testing for structural response evaluation. This study proposes an innovative framework that utilizes RTHS for the performance assessment of candidate designs to enable RBDO of structures subjected to pulse‐like ground motions. RTHS tests are conducted to physically evaluate structural responses through realistically replicating complex nonlinear behavior of experimental substructures. This study introduces a novel penalty function‐based efficient global optimization (P‐EGO) method to minimize the required number of laboratory tests through surrogating the response quantities of interest derived from RTHS. The proposed framework is experimentally evaluated for design optimization of a two‐story four‐bay steel moment‐resisting frame with self‐centering viscous dampers subjected to pulse‐like ground motions. The results demonstrate innovative application of RTHS in dynamic optimal design to account for uncertainties. It offers an effective and efficient alternative for traditional RBDO through pure computational simulation, particularly when structural components pose challenges for numerical modeling.
Green hospitals: Mitigating water footprint and greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable menu planning in Turkish state university hospitals
Authors: Oruçoğlu Betül , Kemaloğlu Mehmetcan , Kemaloğlu Emine
Published: June 2024

Considering the importance of sustainable nutrition, it is important that hospitals' meal menus are planned to ensure the lowest possible environmental footprint. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the environmental effects of hospital menus and the changes that may occur when these menus are planned according to the Turkey Dietary Guidelines and Mediterranean diet recommendations. In this context, first, the yearly environmental footprints of the standard meal menus of the state university hospitals in Turkey (n = 42), including water footprint (WF) and greenhouse gas emission (GHGE) values, were determined. Second, changes in the environmental footprint as a result of arranging the standard meal menus of state university hospitals according to the Turkey Dietary Guidelines and Mediterranean nutritional models were evaluated. It was determined that the average WF and GHGE values of hospital menus were 137,280 ± 18537.2 L/month and 140.0 ± 18.4 kg CO2‐eq/month, respectively. Adjusting state university hospitals' standard meal menus according to Turkey Dietary Guidelines and Mediterranean nutritional models reduced WF by 24.8% to 103206.7 L/month and 37.8% to 85420.5 L/month, and GHGEs by 31.7% to 95.5 kg CO2‐eq/month and 49% to 71.3 kg CO2‐eq/month, respectively. In addition, it was determined that hospital meal menus planned according to the Turkey Dietary Guidelines and the Mediterranean nutritional model contained lower saturated fat and cholesterol and higher dietary fiber. In conclusion, planning hospital menus according to the Turkey Dietary Guidelines and Mediterranean nutritional recommendations can reduce the environmental footprint of hospital food services.
Foreign institutional investors and equity share decisions in cross‐border mergers and acquisitions
Authors: Wajda Dennis , Bu Juan , Shi Wei
Published: June 2024

Research Summary

This study examines the role of foreign institutional investors in shaping acquiring firms' equity share decisions in cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (M&As). We argue that foreign institutional ownership (FIO) from a given country is positively associated with the share of equity sought in the target firm in this country because foreign institutional investors can help reduce information asymmetry between the acquiring and target firms. Moreover, this positive relationship is stronger if target firms are in countries with weaker institutional development because acquiring firms suffer from higher information asymmetry and thus are more inclined to rely on foreign institutional investors for information. Findings from a sample of 4166 cross‐border M&As by US firms lend support to our arguments.

Managerial Summary

Can foreign institutional investors influence acquiring firms' equity share decisions in cross‐border M&As? We posit that local knowledge and information foreign institutional investors provide to acquiring firms can reduce uncertainty in the M&A process. Using data on cross‐border M&As by US firms, we find that high levels of FIO are positively associated with the equity sought in target firms by acquirers. This effect is stronger when target firms are located in countries with weak institutions. Our study highlights the beneficial role of FIO that firm executives should be aware of and has practical implications for how firms manage the M&A process.
Safety and effectiveness of mogamulizumab in relapsed or refractory CC chemokine receptor 4‐positive peripheral T‐cell lymphoma and relapsed or refractory cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma: A post‐marketing surveillance in Japan
Authors: Ishitsuka Kenji , Yasukawa Tomoharu , Tsuji Yukie
Published: June 2024

Mogamulizumab is a humanized antibody targeting CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4). This post‐marketing surveillance was conducted in Japan as a regulatory requirement from 2014 to 2020 to ensure the safety and effectiveness of mogamulizumab in patients with relapsed or refractory (r/r) CCR4‐positive peripheral T‐cell lymphoma (PTCL) or r/r cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL). Safety and effectiveness data were collected for up to 31 weeks after treatment initiation. A total of 142 patients were registered; safety was evaluated in 136 patients. The median number of doses was 8.0 (range, 1–18). The main reasons for treatment termination were insufficient response (22.1%) and adverse events (13.2%). The frequency of any grade adverse drug reaction was 57.4%, including skin disorders (26.5%), infections and immune system disorders (16.2%), and infusion‐related reactions (13.2%). Graft‐versus‐host disease, grade 2, developed in one of two patients who underwent allogeneic‐hematopoietic stem cell transplantation after receiving mogamulizumab. Effectiveness was evaluated in 131 patients (103 with PTCL; 28 with CTCL). The best overall response rate was 45.8% (PTCL, 47.6%; CTCL, 39.3%). At week 31, the survival rate was 69.0% (95% confidence interval, 59.8%–76.5%) [PTCL, 64.4% (54.0%–73.0%); CTCL, 90.5% (67.0%–97.5%)]. Safety and effectiveness were comparable between patients <70 and ≥ 70 years old and between those with relapsed and refractory disease. The safety and effectiveness of mogamulizumab for PTCL and CTCL in the real world were comparable with the data reported in previous clinical trials.

Clinical Trial Registration
Numerical study of droplet impact on a superheated surface under an electric field based on perfect and leaky dielectric theories
Authors: Ghadami Reza , Pournaderi Pedram
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the hydrothermal behavior of leaky dielectric and perfect dielectric droplets impacting a superheated wall within a specific range of Weber numbers under an electric field. Through this investigation, we aim to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics involved in droplet‐superheated surface interactions under electric fields, which can be useful in various applications, such as the design of cooling systems and combustion chambers. The study utilizes the level‐set and ghost fluid techniques to capture the interface accurately. Under an electric field, different behaviors are observed during the impact process, depending on the electrical properties of the droplet. A perfect dielectric droplet experiences a reduction in spreading extent and an increase in contact time. However, no remarkable enhancement in total heat removal occurs in this case. For the leaky dielectric droplet exhibiting prolate deformation at the stationary state, increasing the electric field magnitude results in a slight decrease in the droplet spreading extent, while the droplet contact time and total heat removal from the surface increase. At an electric capillary number of 1.55E − 2 and a Weber number of 25, the enhancement in the contact time and total heat removal is about 43% and 15%, respectively. For the leaky dielectric droplet with oblate deformation at the stationary state, the spreading extent and total heat removal increase, with negligible changes in contact time. At the above‐mentioned electric capillary and Weber numbers, the enhancement in the spreading extent and total heat removal is about 7.5% and 15%, respectively.
RNAs in tumour‐derived extracellular vesicles and their significance in the tumour microenvironment
Authors: Bugajova Maria , Raudenska Martina , Masarik Michal , Kalfert David , Betka Jan , Balvan Jan
Published: June 2024

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) secreted by various types of cells serve as crucial mediators of intercellular communication within the complex tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour‐derived small extracellular vesicles (TDEs) are massively produced and released by tumour cells, recapitulating the specificity of their cell of origin. TDEs encapsulate a variety of RNA species, especially messenger RNAs, microRNAs, long non‐coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, which release to the TME plays multifaced roles in cancer progression through mediating cell proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. sEVs act as natural delivery vehicles of RNAs and can serve as useful targets for cancer therapy. This review article provides an overview of recent studies on TDEs and their RNA cargo, with emphasis on the role of these RNAs in carcinogenesis.
Dietary intake, obesity, and physical activity in association with biliary tract cancer risk: Results from meta‐analyses of individual‐level data from prospective cohort studies of 723,326 adults
Authors: Gunchick Valerie , Wen Wanqing , Jia Guochong , Roberts Lewis R. , Koshiol Jill , Shu Xiao‐Ou , Zheng Wei
Published: June 2024

Biliary tract cancer (BTC) is a rare and aggressive malignancy with increasing incidence. Most BTC cases are diagnosed with metastatic disease which carries a 5‐year survival rate of <5%. Physical activity, diet, and obesity might be associated with BTC risk, but studies have been limited particularly in African descendants. We addressed this knowledge gap by evaluating associations of BTC risk with obesity, physical activity, and dietary intakes in 723,326 adult participants in four cohort studies conducted in China, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in each cohort; results were combined using meta‐analysis. All cohorts had ≥11 median follow‐up years with 839 incident BTC cases combined. BTC risk was positively associated with body mass index (BMI) and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) whereas physical activity, fruit intake, and fish intake were inversely associated. HR and (95% CI) comparing BMI >35.0 to 18.5–24.9: 1.71 (1.26, 2.31), p‐trend <.0001; comparing BMI‐adjusted WHR top to bottom quartile: 1.20 (0.94, 1.53), p‐trend = .05; comparing ≥15–0 metabolic equivalent task‐hours/week 0.76 (0.61, 0.94), p‐trend = .009; comparing highest to lowest intake tertile for fruit and fish 0.79 (0.66, 0.95), p‐trend = .01; 0.82 (0.68, 0.98), p‐trend = .04, respectively. Associations were, in general, similar across ancestry groups. Our study provides strong evidence for important roles of obesity, diet, and physical activity in BTC etiology and stresses the need for lifestyle modification to combat the rising incidence of this fatal malignancy.
Engineered immunologic niche monitors checkpoint blockade response and probes mechanisms of resistance
Authors: Raghani Ravi M. , Urie Russell R. , Ma Jeffrey A. , Escalona Guillermo , Schrack Ian A. , DiLillo Katarina M. , Kandagatla Pridvi , Decker Joseph T. , Morris Aaron H. , Arnold Kelly B. , Jeruss Jacqueline S. , Shea Lonnie D.
Published: June 2024

Antibodies to programmed cell death protein 1 (anti‐PD‐1) have become a promising immunotherapy for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), blocking PD‐L1 signaling from pro‐tumor cells through T cell PD‐1 receptor binding. Nevertheless, only 10%–20% of PD‐L1+ metastatic TNBC patients who meet criteria benefit from immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), and biomarkers to predict patient response have been elusive. We have previously developed an immunological niche, consisting of a microporous implant in the subcutaneous space, that supports tissue formation whose immune composition is consistent with that within vital organs. Herein, we investigated dynamic gene expression within this immunological niche to provide biomarkers of response to anti‐PD‐1. In a 4T1 model of metastatic TNBC, we observed sensitivity and resistance to anti‐PD‐1 based on primary tumor growth and survival. The niche was biopsied before, during, and after anti‐PD‐1 therapy, and analyzed for cell types and gene expression indicative of treatment refractivity. Myeloid cell‐to‐lymphocyte ratios were altered between ICB‐sensitivity and resistance. Longitudinal analysis of gene expression implicated dynamic myeloid cell function that stratified sensitivity from resistance. A niche‐derived gene signature predicted sensitivity or resistance prior to therapy. Analysis of the niche to monitor immunotherapy response presents a new opportunity to personalize care and investigate mechanisms underlying treatment resistance.

Summary: A remote implant identified biomarkers that predict anti‐PD‐1 response before therapy, providing a unique tool to understand heterologous immunotherapy resistance in triple negative breast cancer.
Integration of the key potentially inappropriate drugs in pediatrics list within the electronic health record in a tertiary care children's hospital
Authors: Kapoor Seerat , Mabry William A. , Naik Dhyana , Bobo Kelly S.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The key potentially inappropriate drugs in pediatrics (KIDs) List raises awareness of medications and excipients that should be used cautiously in specific age groups, appropriately monitored, or avoided. This project used the KIDs List to identify opportunities to improve our clinical decision support program and adjust the medication formulary.

Methods

Our team used the Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA) cycle to assess items and take actions that included no change, creation of an alert or task for pharmacists or providers, referral for additional study, inventory modification, and modification of dose range alerts.

Results

Our initial assessment of 34 formulary items identified 10 items (29%) with the recommendations from the KIDs list in place; 72% (24/34) were referred for further study. In the preliminary phase, 15% (5/34) were submitted to pharmacy information technology (IT) to develop an alert, 24% (8/34) needed inventory modifications, 24% (8/34) required dose range alert adjustments, and 9% (3/34) were referred for additional study. Final actions included the development of six new alerts, inventory modification for nine medications, dose range checking for eight medications, and no change for 11 medications.

Discussion

The PDSA cycle was an effective process that allowed the team to assess each medication using a systematic approach and encouraged additional analysis when needed. We were able to compare the KIDs List recommendations to current clinical decision support parameters and make adjustments or develop new alerts within the electronic health record to match the current standard. This initiative had a team‐based approach, included key stakeholders, and is replicable in other institutions.
Plasma C‐terminal agrin fragment concentrations across adulthood: Reference values and associations with skeletal muscle health
Authors: Pratt Jedd , Motanova Evgeniia , Pessanha Ludmilla , Narici Marco , Boreham Colin , De Vito Giuseppe
Published: June 2024

Background

Increasing interest surrounds the utility of blood‐based biomarkers for diagnosing sarcopenia. C‐terminal agrin fragment (CAF), a marker of neuromuscular junction stability, is amongst the most promising candidates; however, a dearth of reference data impedes the incorporation of its use in public health settings. This study aimed to establish reference values for plasma CAF concentrations across adulthood in a large, well‐characterized cohort of healthy adults; and comprehensively examine the association between plasma CAF levels and skeletal muscle health.

Methods

One thousand people aged between 18 and 87 years took part in this study (mean age = 50.4 years; 51% females). Body composition and muscle strength were examined using DXA and hand dynamometry. Plasma CAF concentrations were measured, in duplicate, using commercially available ELISA kits. Sarcopenia and individual sarcopenia signatures [low skeletal muscle index (SMI) only/low grip strength only] were classified using the EWGSOP2 algorithm.

Results

Detailed reference CAF values, according to sex and age, are presented. A significant but modest age‐related increase in plasma CAF concentration was observed (P = 0.018). Across adulthood, CAF concentrations were negatively associated with grip strength and SMI (both P < 0.001). In people ≥50 years old, CAF concentrations were 22.6% higher in those with sarcopenia (P < 0.001), 11.3% higher in those with low SMI (P = 0.006) and 9.6% higher in those with low grip strength (P = 0.0034), compared with controls. People in the highest CAF concentration quartile, had 3.25 greater odds for sarcopenia (95% CI = 1.41–7.49, P = 0.005), 2.76 greater odds for low SMI (95% CI = 1.24–5.22, P = 0.012), and 2.56 greater odds for low grip strength (95% CI = 1.07–5.57, P = 0.037), compared with those in the lowest quartile. People with a CAF Z‐score ≥2 had 9.52 greater odds for sarcopenia (95% CI = 3.01–30.05, P < 0.001) compared with a Z‐score <1. Plasma CAF concentration had an acceptable level of diagnostic accuracy for sarcopenia (AUC = 0.772, 95% CI = 0.733–0.807, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The reference values presented herein may guide the clinical interpretation of circulating CAF and help identify people at risk of poor skeletal muscle outcomes for inclusion in therapeutic interventions. Our findings add clarity to existing data, demonstrating a robust relationship between circulating CAF and skeletal muscle integrity in the largest adult cohort to date, and support the use of CAF as an accessible, cost‐effective screening tool for sarcopenia. However, further research into the prognostic utility of plasma CAF, and the establishment of normative data from other populations, are urgently needed if routine CAF screening is to be embedded into public healthcare settings.
Insights into the heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment in lung adenocarcinoma and squamous carcinoma through single‐cell transcriptomic analysis: Implications for distinct immunotherapy outcomes
Authors: Fang Xinyun , Li Dianke , Wan Shiyue , Hu Junjie , Zhang Peng , Jie Dai , Chen Linsong , Jiang Gening , Song Nan
Published: June 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint blockade has emerged as a key strategy to the therapy landscape of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, notable differences in immunotherapeutic outcomes exist between the two primary NSCLC subtypes: lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). This disparity may stem from the tumor immune microenvironment's heterogeneity at the transcriptome level.

Methods

By integrative analysis of transcriptomic characterization of 38 NSCLC patients by single‐cell RNA sequencing, the present study revealed a distinct tumor microenvironment (TME) between LUAD and LUSC, with relevant results further confirmed in bulk transcriptomic and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) validation cohort of neoadjuvant immunotherapy patients.

Results

LUAD exhibited a more active immune microenvironment compared to LUSC. This included highly expression of HLA I/II in cancer cells, reinforced antigen presentation potential of dendritic cells and enhanced cytotoxic activity observed in T/NK cells. In LUSC, cancer cells highly expressed genes belonging to the aldo‐keto reductases, glutathione S‐transferases and aldehyde dehydrogenase family, negatively correlating with immunotherapy outcomes in the validation cohort of our center. Further analysis revealed elevated infiltrated cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in LUSC, which was corroborated in The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort. Corresponding increased infiltration of ADH1B+ CAFs in major pathologic response (MPR) patients and the higher presence of FAP+ CAFs in non‐MPR patients were demonstrated by multiplex mIF. Moreover, upregulating immunosuppressive extracellular matrix remodeling was identified in LUSC.

Conclusions

These comprehensive analyses advance the understanding of the differences in TME between LUAD and LUSC, offering insights for patient selection and developing subtype‐specific treatment strategies.
Ramsey‐type problems on induced covers and induced partitions toward the Gyárfás–Sumner conjecture
Authors: Chiba Shuya , Furuya Michitaka
Published: June 2024

Gyárfás and Sumner independently conjectured that for every tree , there exists a function such that every ‐free graph satisfies , where and are the chromatic number and the clique number of , respectively. This conjecture gives a solution of a Ramsey‐type problem on the chromatic number. For a graph , the induced SP‐cover number (resp. the induced SP‐partition number ) of is the minimum cardinality of a family of induced subgraphs of such that each element of is a star or a path and (resp. ). Such two invariants are directly related concepts to the chromatic number. From the viewpoint of this fact, we focus on Ramsey‐type problems for two invariants and , which are analogies of the Gyárfás‐Sumner conjecture, and settle them. As a corollary of our results, we also settle other Ramsey‐type problems for widely studied invariants.
Multi‐centre digital radiography reject analysis for different clinical room use types: The establishment of local reject reference levels for public hospital departments
Authors: Serra Daniel , Neep Michael J , Ryan Elaine
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Reject analysis in digital radiography helps guide the training of staff to reduce patient radiation dose and improve department efficiency. The purpose of this study was to perform a multi‐centre, vendor agnostic reject analysis across different room usage types, and to provide benchmarks for comparison.

Methods

Retrospective reject and exposure log data were collected via USB from fixed general X‐ray systems across multiple Australian sites, for collation and analysis. The overall reject rate, local reject reference level, absolute and relative reject rates for body part categories, reject rates by room usage types and the reject rate for each reason of rejection were calculated.

Results

Data were collected from 44 X‐ray systems, across 11 hospitals. A total of 2,031,713 acquired images and 172,495 rejected images were included. The median reject rate was 9.1%. The local reject reference level (LRRL), set as the 75th percentile of all reject rates, was 10.6%. Median reject rates by room type were emergency (7.4%), inpatients + outpatients (9.6%), outpatients (9.2%), and hybrid (10.1%). The highest absolute reject rates by body part were chest (2.1%) and knee (1.4%). The highest relative rates by body part were knee (18.1%) and pelvis (17.2%). The most frequent reasons for image rejection were patient positioning (76%) and patient motion (7.5%).

Conclusions

The results compare well with previously published data. The range of reject rates highlights the need to analyse typical reject rates in different ways. With analysis feedback to participating sites and the implementation of standardised reject reasons, future analysis should monitor whether reject rates reduce.
Treatment of hydrocarbon marine pollution with cloud point extraction
Authors: Ghouas H. , Haddou B. , Canselier J. P. , Kameche M.
Published: June 2024

The release of hydrocarbons (HC) into the marine environment has serious consequences, both economically and ecologically. This work presents an efficient process to remove HC pollution from seawater: cloud point extraction (CPE), considered to be a reliable, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly method, using the readily biodegradable nonionic surfactants Lutensol ON30 and Tergitol 15‐S‐7. A real salt water sample with a high chemical oxygen demand (COD = 1700 mg O2/L) was thus treated. First, the phase diagrams of the binary systems (water–surfactant), and the pseudo‐binary systems (water–surfactant–HC), were determined. Second, after a 24 h settling time, considered as optimal, the extraction results, that is, residual soluble COD, residual percentage of surfactant in the dilute phase and volume fraction of coacervate at equilibrium, were expressed in terms of temperature and initial surfactant concentration. For each parameter, the results obtained were modeled using the response surface methodology and represented on three‐dimensional diagrams. They show that the COD can be reduced to 10 and 15 mg O2/L, using Lutensol ON30 and Tergitol 15‐S‐7, respectively, under seawater temperature conditions. Finally, it was shown that the surfactant can be recycled. The present work demonstrates that CPE can reduce the HC content of seawater on a laboratory scale.
Design of double‐core‐shell structural materials for the extraction of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Dang Shihao , Ye Baogui , Fan Hua , Tao Caihong
Published: June 2024

In this work, core‐shell material with a special structure was designed and applied in solid‐phase extraction (SPE) for non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography. Based on the advantages of core‐shell ZIF‐8@ZIF‐67 (Zeolite imidazole ester framework materials [ZIFs]), effective derivatization treatment was carried out to partially vulcanize the original ZIFs, resulting in a special and new double‐core‐shell structural material CoS/ZIF‐67/ZnS/ZIF‐8 (ZIFs@ZnS@CoS) with porous surface and center hollow. The multiple forces caused by the rich chemical structure, the large specific surface area caused by the special pore structure, and the effective protection of the ZIFs core by sulfide shell make the designed material have higher extraction efficiency and longer service life, compared with ZIF‐8@ZIF‐67 and ZIF‐8. At the same time, the established analytical method for non‐steroidal drugs had a high recovery rate (98.93%–102.10%), low detection limit (0.11–0.27 µg/L), and wide linear range (1–200 µg/L) within a good correlation coefficient R2 (0.9978–0.9993). Satisfactory results were also obtained from the extraction of NSAIDs from the Yellow River water samples. These results indicate that the designed double‐core‐shell structure material can effectively exert its structural advantages and become a promising extraction material.
Association between metabolically healthy obesity and risk of dementia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Su Yanyi , Li Yuecai , Ding Rongqi , Zheng Ziyi , Wang Jiaqi , Fu Qixiang , Deng Jialin , Zhou Hong
Published: June 2024

Background

Some studies suggest that the metabolic alterations linked to obesity in humans may increase the likelihood of developing dementia. However, there are currently no existing meta‐analyses exploring the possible occurrence of dementia in patients with metabolically healthy obesity (MHO). In the present study, we aimed to investigate a potential correlation between individuals with MHO and the likelihood of developing dementia.

Method

Our research focused on searching three databases to locate pertinent studies starting from January 10, 2023. We used sensitivity analysis, the Egger's test, and a visual funnel plot to separately assess the reliability of the research results and publication bias. We conducted this study according to a pre‐established protocol in the PROSPERO registry (CRD42023449459).

Results

We incorporated three potential cohort investigations. Individuals with good metabolic health and obesity showed a decreased likelihood of developing dementia compared with those who were metabolically healthy but not obese (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.79; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–0.92). In contrast, individuals who were metabolically unhealthy and nonobese had an increased likelihood of developing dementia (HR = 1.33; 95% CI 1.25–1.42), whereas the population with metabolically unhealthy obesity did not exhibit a notable association with dementia onset (HR = 1.06; 95% CI 0.83–1.37).

Conclusion

According to our meta‐analysis, patients with MHO had a reduced likelihood of developing general dementia and Alzheimer disease. Maintaining a well‐functioning metabolism can provide advantages in reducing the occurrence of dementia.
Study: Digital strategies may help reduce anxiety, depression
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2024

Observing that the health care workforce continues to experience high rates of depression and anxiety, particularly given the “upending” of the health care system during the COVID‐19 pandemic, University of Pennsylvania researchers established a well‐being and mental health platform with targeted content to support their mental health.
Linear analytical model for the seismic response of a straight‐jointed shield tunnel
Authors: Lu Jian‐Fei , Shi Meng‐Qin , Miao Yong‐Hong
Published: June 2024

In this study, the segment joint and ring joint of the lining of the straight‐jointed tunnel are simplified as an equivalent open cylindrical shell with a small central angle and an equivalent closed cylindrical shell with a small width, and the lining of the straight‐jointed tunnel is thus simplified as an equivalent continuous periodic shell (ECPS) described by the cylindrical shell theory. Since the ECPS lining is periodic along the longitudinal direction, the tunnel‐soil system can thus be treated as a periodic system, which is referred to as the periodic tunnel‐soil system (PTSS) in this study. Based on the proposed ECPS lining model, an analytical method for the tunnel with the ECPS lining (ECPS tunnel) under seismic waves is established in this study. By employing the periodicity condition for the PTSS as well as the wave function expansion method, the representation for the wave field in the soil is established. With the aforementioned cylindrical shell theory and Fourier series expansion method, the convolution type constitutive relation for the ECPS lining and the Fourier space equations of motion are derived. By using the soil‐lining continuity condition and aforementioned formulations for the ECPS lining and soil, the coupled Fourier space equations of motion for the PTSS are established, with which the response of the ECPS lining and scattered waves in the soil can be determined.
Effect of curing agents n‐octylamine and m‐xylene diamine on the mechanical and memory properties of E51 epoxy resin
Authors: Wan Tao , Wang Bo , Wang Yujiang , Han Qing , Liu Kuiren , Chen Jianshe , Li Binchuan , Fu Daxue , Wei Shicheng
Published: June 2024

The effects of curing agents n‐octylamine (OA) and m‐xylene diamine (MXDA) on the mechanical and memory properties of E51 epoxy resin (EP) are investigated in this work. The curing mechanism and thermal stability of OA and MXDA with EP are also investigated via Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis, the influence of curing agent ratios on the thermo‐dynamic mechanical properties of EP are investigated through dynamic thermo‐mechanical analysis, and the relationship between the storage modulus, the hysteresis phase angle and the temperature are constructed. Moreover, the cross‐linking densities of the EP with different curing agent ratios are calculated using Archimedes's method. Besides, the effects of different proportions of curing agents on the mechanical properties of EP are studied. The results show that with the increases of MXDA ratio, the phase transition temperature, crosslink density, recovery temperature, recovery rate, the tensile strength, tensile modulus, strain strength, and strain modulus are enhanced, however, the hysteresis phase angle MXDA ratio and the tenacity decrease. Finally, the shape memory mechanism of E51 is discussed.
Multi‐regional sequencing reveals the genetic and immune heterogeneity of non‐cancerous tissues in gastric cancer
Authors: Zhou Yong , Li Shen , Hu Yingqi , Xu Xiao , Cui Jiantao , Li Shuaicheng , Li Ziyu , Ji Jiafu , Xing Rui
Published: June 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most heterogeneous tumors. However, research on normal tissue adjacent to the tumor (NAT) is very limited. We performed multi‐regional omics sequencing on 150 samples to assess the genetic basis and immune microenvironment in NAT and matched primary tumor or lymph node metastases. NATs demonstrated different mutated genes compared with GC, and NAT genomes underwent independent evolution with low variant allele frequency. Mutation profiles were predominated by aging and smoking‐associated signatures in NAT instead of signatures associated with genetic instability. Although the immune microenvironment within NATs shows substantial intra‐patient heterogeneity, the proportion of shared TCR clones among NATs is five times higher than that of tumor regions. These findings support the notion that subclonal expansion is not pronounced in NATs. We also demonstrated remarkable intra‐patient heterogeneity of GCs and revealed heterogeneity of focal amplification of CD274 (encoding PD‐L1) that leads to differential expression. Finally, we identified that monoclonal seeding is predominant in GC, which is followed by metastasis‐to‐metastasis dissemination in individual lymph nodes. These results provide novel insights into GC carcinogenesis. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Low‐dose immune tolerance induction for severe hemophilia A inhibitor patients: Immunosuppressants are generally not necessary for inhibitor‐titer below 200 BU/mL
Authors: Li Zhengping , Sun Jie , Li Zekun , Chen Zhenping , Liu Guoqing , Yao Wanru , Cheng Xiaoling , Li Gang , Zhen Yingzi , Ai Di , Zhou Yaohan , Mao Qianqian , Poon Man‐Chiu , Wu Runhui
Published: June 2024

Importance

It remained unclear that the efficacy comparison between low‐dose immune tolerance induction (LD‐ITI) incorporating immunosuppressants (IS) when severe hemophilia A (SHA) patients had inhibitor‐titer ≥200 Bethesda Units (BU)/mL (LD‐ITI‐IS200 regimen) and LD‐ITI combining with IS when SHA patients had inhibitor‐titer ≥40 BU/mL (LD‐ITI‐IS40 regimen).

Objective

To compare the efficacy of the LD‐ITI‐IS200 regimen with that of the LD‐ITI‐IS40 regimen for SHA patients with high‐titer inhibitors.

Methods

A prospective cohort study on patients receiving LD‐ITI‐IS200 compared to those receiving LD‐ITI‐IS40 from January 2021 to December 2023. Both received LD‐ITI [FVIII 50 IU/kg every other day]. IS (rituximab + prednisone) was added when peak inhibitor tier ≥200 BU/mL in the LD‐ITI‐IS200 regimen and ≥40 BU/mL in the LD‐ITI‐IS40 regimen. Success is defined as a negative inhibitor plus FVIII recovery ≥66% of the expected.

Results

We enrolled 30 patients on LD‐ITI‐IS200 and 64 patients on LD‐ITI‐IS40, with similar baseline clinical characteristics. A lower IS‐use rate was discovered in the LD‐ITI‐IS200 regimen compared to the LD‐ITI‐IS40 regimen (30.0% vs. 62.5%). The two regimens (LD‐ITI‐IS200 vs. LD‐ITI‐IS40) had similar success rate (70.0% vs. 79.7%), median time to success (9.4 vs. 10.6 months), and annualized bleeding rate during ITI (3.7 vs. 2.8). The cost to success was lower for LD‐ITI‐IS200 than for LD‐ITI‐IS40 (2107 vs. 3256 US Dollar/kg). Among patients with peak inhibitor‐titer 40–199 BU/mL, 10 non‐IS‐using (on LD‐ITI‐IS200 regimen) and 28 IS‐using (on LD‐ITI‐IS40 regimen) had similar success rates (70.0% vs. 78.6%) and time to success (9.0 vs. 8.8 months).

Interpretation

In LD‐ITI, IS are not necessary for inhibitor titer <200 BU/mL.
Years of running, chronic diseases, and allergies are associated with gradual onset Achilles tendon injuries in 61,252 running race entrants: SAFER XXXIX study
Authors: Young Jonah , Wood Paola , Schwellnus Martin , Jordaan Esmè , Swanevelder Sonja
Published: June 2024

Background

Gradual‐onset Achilles tendon injuries (GoATIs) in runners are common. Data show that chronic diseases are associated with GoATI.

Objective

To determine risk factors associated with a history of GoATIs among long‐distance runners (21.1 and 56 km) entering a mass community‐based running event.

Methods

Online pre‐race medical screening questionnaire data from 76,654 consenting Two Ocean Marathon race entrants (71.8% entrants) were collected prospectively over 4 years (2012–2015); this cross‐sectional study is a retrospective analysis of these data. A total of 617 entrants (0.8%) reported a GoATI in the last 12 months; 60,635 entrants reported no history of any running injury (controls). Categories of factors associated with GoATI were explored (univariate and multiple regression analyses): demographics (age group, sex, race, distance), training/racing history, and history of allergy, history of chronic disease, and Composite Chronic Disease Score. Prevalence and prevalence ratios (PRs; 95% CI) are reported.

Results

Factors associated with a higher prevalence of a history of GoATI (univariate analysis vs. controls) were older age (>31 years) (p < .001), male sex (PR = 1.76; p < .001), and longer race distance (56 km vs. 21.1 km) (PR = 2.06; p < .001). Independent factors associated with a history of GoATI (multiple regression) were increased years of recreational running (PR = 1.17 for every 5‐year increase, p < .001), higher Composite Chronic Disease Score (PR = 2.07 for every 2‐unit increase, p < .001), and allergy history (PR = 1.98 p < .001).

Conclusion

Novel independent factors associated with a history of GoATI in distance runners were increased years of recreational running, chronic disease history, and allergy history. Runners at risk for GoATI could be targeted for injury prevention interventions. Future studies should focus on establishing a causal relationship.
The use of cell and larval assays to identify target genes for RNA interference‐meditated control of the Australian sheep blowfly (Lucilia cuprina)
Authors: Yang Yunjia , Zhang Bing , Yong Jiaxi , James Peter , Xu Zhi Ping , Mitter Neena , Mahony Timothy J , Mody Karishma T
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Flystrike, primarily caused by Lucilia cuprina, is a major health and welfare issue for sheep wool industries. Current chemical‐based controls can have limited effectiveness due to the emergence of resistance in the parasite. RNA interference (RNAi), which uses double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) as a trigger molecule, has been successfully investigated for the development of innovative pest control strategies. Although RNAi offers great potential, the efficient identification, selection of target genes and delivery of dsRNA represent challenges to be overcome for the successful application of RNAi for control of L. cuprina.

RESULTS

A primary L. cuprina (blowfly) embryo cell line (BFEC) was established and confirmed as being derived from L. cuprina eggs by PCR and amplicon sequencing. The BFECs were successfully transfected with plasmids and messenger RNA (mRNA) expressing fluorescent reporter proteins and dsRNA using lipid‐based transfection reagents. The transfection of dsRNA into BEFC in this study suggested decreased mRNA levels of target gene expression, which suggested RNAi‐mediated knockdown. Three of the dsRNAs identified in this study resulted in reductions of in target gene mRNA levels in BFEC and loss of biological fitness by L. cuprina larvae in a feeding bioassay.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that the novel BFEC cell line can be used to improve the efficacy of dsRNA‐mediated screening to accelerate the identification of potential target genes in the development of RNAi mediated control approaches for L. cuprina. The research models established in this study are encouraging with respect to the use of RNAi as a blowfly control method, however further improvement and validation are required for field applicationsnot prefect, and could be ongoing developing. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.