bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Branched Chain Amino Acids, New Target of Germinated Brown Rice against Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wan Wenting , Jiang Xianchen , Zhao Ruifang , Cai Fenfen , Wu Fan , Hu Yunqi , Zhou Xiaoqin , Liu Zhipeng , Shan Yujuan
Published: December 2022

Scope

Adequate intake of whole grain foods is beneficial to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Whether the preventive effects are related with metabolism of branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) is unclear. The study aims to evaluate the effects of germinated brown rice (GBR) intervention on BCAAs metabolism in T2DM patients.

Methods and results

In this randomized controlled trial, subjects with T2DM are instructed to consume 100 g day−1 GBR (GBR group, n=42) or equal staple food (Control group, n=25) for 3 months. Food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) and serum samples are collected before and after the intervention. In the GBR group, fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin (FINS), and serum BCAAs are decreased, and islet function is improved (p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that FBG (odds ratios [OR]: 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–1.84) and energy (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.09–1.30) are positively associated with serum total BCAAs level, while FINS is negatively associated (OR: 0.20, 95% CI: 0.04–0.88). Simultaneously, the key enzymes of BCAAs decomposition, which promotes glycolysis by activating pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), are significantly increased.

Conclusion

GBR improves the indicators of T2DM patients, and the underlying mechanisms include improving insulin resistance and accelerating catabolism of BCAAs.
Whole‐Genome Transcriptomics of PBMC to Identify Biomarkers of Early Metabolic Risk in Apparently Healthy People with Overweight‐Obesity and in Normal‐Weight Subjects
Authors: Costa Andrea , van der Stelt Inge , Reynés Bàrbara , Konieczna Jadwiga , Fiol Miquel , Keijer Jaap , Palou Andreu , Romaguera Dora , van Schothorst Evert M. , Oliver Paula
Published: December 2022

Scope

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) provide a useful and minimally invasive source of biomarkers. Here to identify PBMC transcriptomic biomarkers predictive of metabolic impairment related to increased adiposity is aimed.

Methods and results

The study analyzed the global PBMC transcriptome in metabolically healthy (normoglycemic) volunteers with overweight‐obesity (OW‐OB, n = 12), and in subjects with metabolically obese normal‐weight (MONW, n = 5) phenotype, in comparison to normal‐weight (NW, n = 12) controls. The study identifies 1072 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in OW‐OB versus NW and 992 in MONW versus NW. Hierarchical clustering of the top 100 DEGs clearly distinguishes OW‐OB and MONW from NW. Remarkably, the OW‐OB and MONW phenotypes share 257 DEGs regulated in the same direction. The top up‐regulated gene CXCL8, coding for interleukin 8, with a role in obesity‐related pathologies, is of special interest as a potential marker for predicting increased metabolic risk. CXCL8 expression is increased mainly in the MONW group and correlated directly with C‐reactive protein levels.

Conclusions

PBMC gene expression analysis of CXCL8 or a pool of DEGs may be used to identify early metabolic risk in an apparently healthy population regardless of their BMI, i.e., subjects with OW‐OB or MONW phenotype and to apply adequate and personalized nutritional preventive strategies.
Effect of d‐β‐Hydroxybutyrate‐(R)‐1,3 Butanediol on Appetite Regulation in People with Prediabetes
Authors: Liu Yutong , Bharmal Sakina H. , Kimita Wandia , Petrov Maxim S.
Published: December 2022

Scope

The main aim of the present study is to study the effect of acute ketosis on parameters of appetite regulation in prediabetes.

Methods and results

This is a randomized controlled trial registered under ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03889210. After an overnight fast, 18 adults with prediabetes are assigned to consume a ketone monoester (d‐β‐hydroxybutyrate‐(R)‐1,3 butanediol) drink and a placebo drink in cross‐over fashion. Blood samples are collected every 30 min, from baseline to 150 min. Paired t test is used to compare the total area under the curve (AUC) for the changes in parameters of appetite regulation (acylated ghrelin, peptide YY [PYY], and hunger) following both drinks. Significant elevation in blood β‐hydroxybutyrate from 0.2 to 3.5 mmol L−1 (p < 0.001) is achieved within 30 min. Acute ketosis does not result in statistically significant differences in the AUCs for ghrelin, PYY, and hunger.

Conclusion

Acute ketosis consistently does not affect both objective and subjective parameters of appetite regulation in prediabetes.
Technical note: Noninvasive monitoring of normal tissue radiation damage using spectral quantitative ultrasound spectroscopy
Authors: Rafat Marjan , El Kaffas Ahmed , Swarnakar Ankush , Shostak Anastasia , Graves Edward E.
Published: December 2022

Background

While radiation therapy (RT) is a critical component of breast cancer therapy and is known to decrease overall local recurrence rates, recent studies have shown that normal tissue radiation damage may increase recurrence risk. Fibrosis is a well‐known consequence of RT, but the specific sequence of molecular and mechanical changes induced by RT remains poorly understood.

Purpose

To improve cancer therapy outcomes, there is a need to understand the role of the irradiated tissue microenvironment in tumor recurrence. This study seeks to evaluate the use of spectral quantitative ultrasound (spectral QUS) for real time determination of the normal tissue characteristic radiation response and to correlate these results to molecular features in irradiated tissues.

Methods

Murine mammary fat pads (MFPs) were irradiated to 20 Gy, and spectral QUS was used to analyze tissue physical properties pre‐irradiation as well as at 1, 5, and 10 days post‐irradiation. Tissues were processed for scanning electron microscopy imaging as well as histological and immunohistochemical staining to evaluate morphology and structure.

Results

Tissue morphological and structural changes were observed non‐invasively following radiation using mid‐band fit (MBF), spectral slope (SS), and spectral intercept (SI) measurements obtained from spectral QUS. Statistically significant shifts in MBF and SI indicate structural tissue changes in real time, which matched histological observations. Radiation damage was indicated by increased adipose tissue density and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the potential of using spectral QUS to noninvasively evaluate normal tissue changes resulting from radiation damage. This supports further pre‐clinical studies to determine how the tissue microenvironment and physical properties change in response to therapy, which may be important for improving treatment strategies.
Improved precision of SPECT myocardial blood flow using a net tracer retention model
Authors: Cuddy‐Walsh Sarah G. , deKemp Robert A. , Ruddy Terrence D. , Wells R. Glenn
Published: December 2022

Background

Noninvasive quantification of absolute myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR) provides incremental benefit to relative myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) to diagnose and manage heart disease. MBF can be measured with single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) but the uncertainty in the measured values is high. Standardization and optimization of protocols for SPECT MBF measurements will improve the consistency of this technique. One element of the processing protocol is the choice of kinetic model used to analyze the dynamic image series.

Purpose

This study evaluates if a net tracer retention model (RET) will provide a better fit to the acquired data and greater test‐retest precision than a one‐compartment model (1CM) for SPECT MBF, with (+MC) and without (‐MC) manual motion correction.

Methods

Data from previously acquired rest‐stress MBF studies (31 SPECT‐PET and 30 SPECT‐SPECT) were reprocessed ± MC. Rate constants (K1) were extracted using 1CM and RET, +/‐MC, and compared pairwise with standard PET MBF measurements using cross‐validation to obtain calibration parameters for converting SPECT rate constants to MBF and to assess the goodness‐of‐fit of the calibration curves. Precision (coefficient of variation of test re‐test relative differences, COV) of flow measurements was computed for 1CM and RET ± MC using data from the repeated SPECT MBF studies.

Results

Both the RET model and MC improved the goodness‐of‐fit of the SPECT MBF calibration curves to PET. All models produced minimal bias compared with PET (mean bias < 0.6%). The SPECT‐SPECT MBF COV significantly improved from 34% (1CM+MC) to 28% (RET+MC, P = 0.008).

Conclusion

The RET+MC model provides a better calibration of SPECT to PET and blood flow measurements with better precision than the 1CM, without loss of accuracy.
Virtual Analyzers for MI and Density Based on Neural Networks Improved through an Integrated Strategy Involving a Constructive Algorithm and Definition of Initial Weights
Authors: da Silva Adilton Lopes , Fontes Cristiano Hora , Embiruçu Marcelo
Published: December 2022

This work presents the development and validation of two virtual analyzers (density and Melt Index (MI)) for quality monitoring and control of the final product in an industrial unit of Linear Polyethylene (LPE). Both models are based on Feedforward Neural Networks which are improved through a strategy involving the initial estimation of weights and a constructive algorithm to define the number of hidden units. The initialization strategy is based on linearization of the neural model with only one hidden unit (nonlinear model) and subsequent optimization of this model by maximizing its similarity to the standard linear regression model whose solution is obtained analytically. The Initial Neural Model (INM) is then used as a starting point for a gradual increase in the number of hidden units. In a validation test involving MI and density values collected over 2 years of operation, the neural model is able to predict these properties with mean percentage errors equal to 0.81% (MI) and 0.04% (density) and determination coefficients equal to 0.970 (MI) and 0.983 (density). The population coefficient estimated in all tests involving grade transitions (0.96) shows a strong linear correlation between the proposed model and laboratory measurements.
Visual impairment and the need for vision care services amongst older Finnish people receiving home care
Authors: Pesonen Tiina , Saarela Kaisa‐Mari , Falck Aura , Edgren Johanna , Kyngäs Helvi , Siira Heidi
Published: December 2022

Aim

This study aimed to describe visual performance and the need for vision care services among Finnish older people receiving home care. We evaluated the applicability of the Resident Assessment Instrument of Home Care (RAI HC) in identifying visual impairment (VI) and the need for vision care services among older people.

Design

A descriptive quantitative, cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Visual impairment and the need for vision care services for older people receiving home care (N = 70) were determined by an optometrist's screening examination and vision assessment by home care workers using the RAI HC instrument. In this study, the definition of visual impairment was visual acuity (VA) <0.63 (logMAR >0.2).

Results

According to the distance VA measurements, 41% of the participants showed VI (<0.63) of the better eye, while the RAI HC assessment revealed VI among 36% of the participants. The Kappa value for interrater reliability in classifying VI was 0.137. The optometrist's vision screening examination recognized a previously unknown and unmet need for vision care services more than twice as often as the RAI HC assessment.
An integrative review of resilience among nursing students in the context of nursing education
Authors: Aryuwat Pimwalunn , Asp Margareta , Lövenmark Annica , Radabutr Matanee , Holmgren Jessica
Published: December 2022

Aim

This integrative review aimed to examine empirical research on resilience among nursing students in the context of nursing education. Resilience helps nursing students handle challenges, such as changing learning styles and experiencing their first clinical practice.

Design

An integrative review.

Methods

The search terms focused on resilience and health in nursing students and nursing education. The database used in this review were CINAHL Plus, PubMed and MEDLINE. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool appraised the studies' quality.

Results

This study explored 52 records and revealed three current research focuses related to nursing students' resilience: (1) the concept and description of resilience, (2) the characteristics affecting resilience and (3) the mediating role of resilience in maintaining holistic health. Recommendations include adding a resilience topic to the nursing curriculum, providing resilience enhancement programs, examining the relationship between resilience and holistic health and exploring the influence of resilience about global health crises.

Public Contribution

Resilience among nursing students plays a vital role in helping them to overcome adversities during their nursing education. Additionally, after graduation, nursing students can continue contributing to society as resilient Registered Nurses in the future.
Factors contributing to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients' functional performance: Structural equation modelling based on theory of unpleasant symptoms
Authors: Jun Hye Suk , Kang Younhee
Published: December 2022

Aim

This study aimed to predict the functional performance of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by clarifying the relationship among disease severity, uncertainty, social support, symptom experience, coping, and functional performance.

Design

A model‐testing design was used.

Methods

The subjects of this study were outpatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who visited the respiratory clinic of a general hospital in Seoul, Korea. The data were collected using validated instruments from July 2018 to April 2019, of which 202 questionnaires in total were used for data analysis. Collected data were analysed by using IBM SPSS v27.0 and Mplus 8.0.

Results

The severity of the disease, uncertainty, and symptom experience should be reduced to improve the functional performance of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Furthermore, reduced uncertainty can improve functional performance by reducing symptom experience. Nursing interventions for the improvement of pulmonary function and reduction of symptom experience should be developed.
The effect of age on entheseal changes: A study of modifications at appendicular attachment sites in a large sample of identified human skeletons
Authors: Villotte Sébastien , Santos Frédéric
Published: December 2022

Entheseal changes (EC) are frequent in older individuals, and age at death is the main variable explaining the distribution of EC stages in adult skeletal samples. While this is already well known, the underlying process has not been studied in biological anthropology to date. The aim of the article is to describe the relationship between age and stages of EC in detail for 30 appendicular entheses in a large sample of adult skeletons (N = 721) with known age at death and sex, using several statistical tools (such as Spearman's rank correlation coefficients, logistic regression models, adjusted standardized residuals, and generalized odds ratios). The analyses indicate a moderate to strong relationship between age at death and EC for all the appendicular attachment sites, but also striking differences between fibrous and fibrocartilaginous entheseal attachment sites. These differences are discussed in light of the available biomedical data.
National advisory panels for childhood cancer in the United Kingdom: An evaluation of current practice and a best practice statement for the future
Authors: Brown Sarah , Chowdhury Tanzina , Collin Matthew , Grundy Richard G. , Howell Lisa , Ramanujachar Ramya , Rees Helen , Vora Ajay , Gray Juliet C. , Bate Jessica
Published: December 2022

Background

National advisory panels (NAPs) have been established for the care of children and young people (CYP) with cancer in the United Kingdom since 2011, with an increase in panel number in recent years. Their practice has not previously been reviewed; therefore, we sought to evaluate the role, practice and impact of six selected NAPs offering expertise in ependymoma, histiocytosis, leukaemia, neuroblastoma, renal tumours and sarcoma.

Procedure

This service evaluation used mixed methodology, including review of NAP documentation, semi‐structured interviews with the NAP chairs and an analysis of the cases referred for discussion.

Results

Total 1110 referrals were analysed. Results demonstrated the significant scope and amount of work undertaken by the NAPs, largely testament to the commitment of the panel members. Specific roles fulfilled have been highlighted, and NAP recommendations have been shown to influence clinical decision‐making and be implemented in the majority of cases. Despite widespread good practice, areas to address have been identified; these include clarity regarding NAP membership, consistency in recommendations, the consideration of holistic information to promote personalised management and the exploration of wider multidisciplinary team roles.

Conclusions

In the context of increasing demand and the escalating number of NAPs, it is timely to consider how service improvement can be facilitated. Best practice guidelines have been formulated as a product of this study, to promote a sustainable and effective model for NAPs. Review and benchmarking national panel performance against these guidelines will drive high standards of care going forward and they should be embedded as standard practice.
Bending properties and design strength of reconstituted bamboo at different temperatures
Authors: Zhao Kunpeng , Wei Yang , Chen Si , Lin Yu , Huang Linjie
Published: December 2022

Reconstituted bamboo is a unidirectional fiber adhesive material with strong temperature sensitivity. The bending strength and deformation of reconstituted bamboo beams at different temperatures were measured using a three‐point bending test. At 10°C, 30°C, and 50°C, the samples showed a brittle tensile fracture, simple tensile fracture, and splintering tensile fracture modes respectively, the bending failure pattern of reconstituted bamboo was intensified with increasing temperature. The results show that with increasing temperature, the degree of interlaminar debonding cracking and longitudinal tensile fracture is aggravated, accompanied by shearing. The ultimate bearing capacity of the reconstituted bamboo decreased from 182.25 MPa to 124.89 MPa (a reduction of 31.47%) and the flexural modulus decreased from 11,329.25 MPa to 8679.90 MPa (a reduction of 23.39%) as the temperature increased from 10°C to 50°C. The temperature has little effect on the initial stiffness, and the postelastic stiffness decreases significantly (by 53.01%) with increasing temperature. The thermal softening effect has a significant influence on the plastic behavior of bamboo. A model of the design value of bending strength considering the temperature was established, and the design value of bending strength was evaluated.
Reflecting the energy transition from a European perspective and in the global context—Relevance of solar photovoltaics benchmarking two ambitious scenarios
Authors: Breyer Christian , Bogdanov Dmitrii , Ram Manish , Khalili Siavash , Vartiainen Eero , Moser David , Román Medina Eduardo , Masson Gaëtan , Aghahosseini Arman , Mensah Theophilus N. O. , Lopez Gabriel , Schmela Michael , Rossi Raffaele , Hemetsberger Walburga , Jäger‐Waldau Arnulf
Published: December 2022

Multiple energy‐related crises require a fast transition towards a sustainable energy system. The European Green Deal aims for zero CO2 emission by 2050, while accelerating climate change impacts obligate a faster phase‐out of fossil fuels. Energy transition studies for Europe at and near 100% renewable energy are used as a benchmark for two newly introduced scenarios for Europe reaching zero CO2 emissions by 2050 and 2040. A technology‐rich energy system model was applied in hourly resolution for Europe in 20 interconnected regions and in full sector coupling covering all energy demands. The results reveal a cost‐neutral energy transition towards 2050 based on declining levelised cost of electricity and a pathway with 9% higher energy costs leading to 17% lower total CO2 emissions with an accelerated energy transition by 2040. The two scenarios find shares of solar photovoltaic (PV) in total generation of 61%–63% by 2050, the highest ever estimated for Europe, still below the highest global average shares ranging between 75% and 77% form three independent studies. The central energy system components are solar PV, wind power, batteries, electrolysers and CO2 direct air capture for carbon capture and utilisation. The core characteristic of the European energy future may be best described by a power‐to‐X economy, which may evolve on the global scale to a solar‐to‐X economy.
Influence of personality traits, gender, and socio‐economic factors in obesity in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Diop Modou , Ruiz‐Adame Manuel , Gaggero Alessio
Published: December 2022

Obesity is a chronic disorder associated with high mortality rates and high morbidity. The risk of obesity is associated with certain personality traits (PTs). Some studies have found correlations among some PTs and gender. Additionally, obesity implies higher costs in daily living. The aim of this paper is to overcome this problem in the literature and estimate the association between PTs and obesity by taking into account the economic situation of the individual. This study employs data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). We focus on waves 5 and 6 of the ELSA with a sample of 6562 individuals. The results suggests that the traits of agreeableness (
) and openness (
) are positively and significantly associated with obesity. On the other hand, consciousness has a negative and statistically significant effect on obesity
. Results are robust to the inclusion/exclusion of different regressors.
Actigraphic and nursing sleep log measures in moderate‐to‐severe traumatic brain injury: Identifying discrepancies in total sleep time
Authors: Weppner Justin L. , Hillaker Emily , Boomgaardt Jacob , Tan Stephen , Holum Parker , Li Felix , Tu Justin , Sheppard Michael
Published: December 2022

Background

Sleep disturbances are common in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). In an inpatient rehabilitation setting, clinicians often use information from sleep logs filled out by trained nurses to identify and treat sleep disturbances. However, there are limited data related to accuracy of sleep logs, and patient‐reported sleep diaries are poor predictors of total sleep time, which raises concern about the accuracy of sleep logs filled out by a third party.

Objective

To examine the reliability of sleep logs for participants with TBI by comparing total sleep time determined by sleep logs versus actigraphy.

Design

Prospective, cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Free‐standing, academic inpatient rehabilitation facility.

Participants

Thirty individuals (n = 30) participated in the study. Inclusion criteria were (1) diagnosis of moderate‐to‐severe TBI; (2) age ≥ 18 years at the time of TBI; and (3) participating in inpatient rehabilitation with no prior inpatient rehabilitation admissions.

Interventions

Actigraph monitoring using ActiGraph GT9X Link devices was initiated within 72 hours of admission and continued for 7 consecutive days. Sleep logs were concurrently filled out by trained nurses.

Main Outcome Measures

Sleep parameter correspondence between actigraphy and sleep logs in moderate‐to‐severe TBI.

Results

Only 51.4% of participants' sleep logs and actigraph total sleep time measurements were within 1 hour of each other, and only 23.8% were within 30 minutes. On average, sleep logs overestimated actigraphy‐determined total sleep time by 60 minutes compared to actigraphic measurement.

Conclusions

For those with moderate‐to‐severe TBI undergoing inpatient rehabilitation, sleep logs are poor predictors of sleep time because they overestimate total sleep time compared to actigraphy. Therefore, clinicians should use caution when using sleep log data to make decisions regarding treatment for sleep disturbances in TBI.
Heart transplantation and the role of inpatient rehabilitation: A narrative review
Authors: Rydberg Leslie , Barker Kim , Lanphere Julie , Malmut Laura , Neal Jacqueline , Eickmeyer Sarah
Published: December 2022

Heart transplantation is a definitive treatment option for patients with end‐stage heart failure. Medical and functional complications are common after this procedure, and rehabilitation is often needed postoperatively. Physiatrists caring for persons who have received a donor heart must appreciate the surgical background, the physiologic changes expected, as well as the potential medical complications for which they are at risk after heart transplantation. This review summarizes various topics in heart transplantation including the history of the procedure, exercise physiology and functional outcomes, postoperative medical therapy, medical complications, and special considerations for inpatient rehabilitation in this patient population.
High flow nasal cannula therapy in the pediatric home setting
Authors: Ehrlich Shay , Golan Tripto Inbal , Lavie Moran , Cahal Michal , Shonfeld Tommy , Prais Dario , Levine Hagit , Mei‐Zahav Meir , Bar‐On Ophir , Gendler Yulia , Zalcman Jonatan , Sarsur Eahab , Aviram Micha , Goldbart Aviv , Stafler Patrick
Published: December 2022

Background

High‐flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy may be better tolerated than traditional noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and is rapidly gaining acceptance in pediatric acute care. In Israel, HFNC is approved for domestic use. We aim to describe its indications, efficacy, parental satisfaction, and safety.

Methods

Retrospective study of children treated with home HFNC therapy in three pediatric centers. Data included demographic parameters, indication of use, weight and days of hospitalization before and after initiation. Safety, tolerability, and parental satisfaction were assessed via standardized telephone questionnaire.

Results

Median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of initiating home HFNC in 75 children was 8.3 (2.2, 29.6) months. Indications were obstructive sleep apnea (33; 44%), airway malacia (19; 25%), chronic lung disease (15; 20%), neuromuscular disease (4; 5%), and postextubation support (4; 5%). Weight standard deviation score rose from −2.3 pre‐HFNC to −1.7 at 6.7 months post‐HFNC initiation,p < 0.001. Hospital admission days during the 2 months pre‐ versus post‐HFNC initiation were 22 (5.5, 60) and 5 (0, 14.7) respectively,p < 0.008. Median (IQR) parental satisfaction score was 5/5 (4, 5). Fifty of 60 (83%) respondents would recommend home HFNC to other families in a similar situation. There were no serious adverse events.

Conclusion

In our population, domestic HFNC appeared safe and well tolerated for a variety of indications. Its introduction was associated with improved weight gain, fewer hospitalization days and high parental satisfaction. Further work is required to characterize groups of children most likely to benefit from HFNC, as opposed to traditional modes of NIV.
Importance of magnetic resonance imaging and prostate‐specific membrane antigen PET‐CT in patients treated with salvage radical prostatectomy for radiorecurrent prostate cancer
Authors: Rajwa Pawel , Pfister David , Rieger Constantin , Heidenreich Julian , Drzezga Alexander , Persigehl Thorsten , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Heidenreich Axel
Published: December 2022

Background

Accurate staging and identification of optimal candidates for local salvage therapy, such as salvage radical prostatectomy (SRP), is necessary to ensure optimal care in patients with radiorecurrent prostate cancer (PCa). We aimed to analyze performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA)‐positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) for predicting pathologic nonorgan confined disease (pT3) and lymph node involvement (pN+) in patients treated with SRP for radiorecurrent PCa.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the institutional database to identify patients who underwent MRI or 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT before SRP for radiorecurrent PCa. The diagnostic estimates of MRI and PSMA‐PET/CT for pT3 and pN+, were calculated.

Results

We identified 113 patients with radiorecurrent PCa who underwent preoperative MRI followed by SRP; 53 had preoperative 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT. For the detection of pT3 disease, the overall accuracy of MRI was 70% (95% confidence interval [CI] 61−78), sensitivity 40% (95% CI 26−55) and specificity 94% (95% CI 85−98); PSMA‐PET/CT had slightly higher accuracy of 77% (95% CI 64−88), and higher sensitivity of 90% (95% CI 68−99), but lower specificity of 70% (95% CI 51−84). For pN+ disease, MRI had poor sensitivity of 14% (95% CI 3−36), specificity of 50 (95% CI 39−61) and total accuracy of 43% (95% CI 34−53); PSMA‐PET/CT had an accuracy of 85% (95% CI 72−93), sensitivity of 27% (95% CI 6−61), and specificity of 100% (95% CI 92−100).

Conclusion

In patients with radiorecurrent PCa, both, MRI, and 68Ga‐PSMA PET/CT are valuable tools for the pre‐SRP staging and should be integrated into the standard workup. For lymph node metastases, 68Ga‐PSMA PET/CT is a strong rule‐in test with nearly perfect specificity; in contrast MRI had a low accuracy for lymph node metastases.
Oncolytic viral kinetics mechanistic modeling of Talimogene Laherparepvec (T‐VEC) a first‐in‐class oncolytic viral therapy in patients with advanced melanoma
Authors: Ahamadi Malidi , Kast Johannes , Chen Po‐Wei , Huang Xiaojun , Dutta Sandeep , Upreti Vijay V.
Published: December 2022

Talimogene Laherparepvec (T‐VEC) is a first‐in‐class oncolytic virotherapy approved for the treatment of unresectable melanoma recurrent after initial surgery. Biodistribution data from a phase II study was used to develop a viral kinetic mechanistic model describing the interaction between cytokines such as granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), the immune system, and T‐VEC treatment. Our analysis found that (1) the viral infection rate has a great influence on T‐VEC treatment efficacy; (2) an increase in T‐VEC dose of 102 plaque‐forming units/ml 21 days and beyond after the initial dose of T‐VEC resulted in an ~12% increase in response; and (3) at the systemic level, the ratio of resting innate immune cells to the death rate of innate immune impact T‐VEC treatment efficacy. This analysis clarifies under which condition the immune system either assists in eliminating tumor cells or inhibits T‐VEC treatment efficacy, which is critical to both efficiently design future oncolytic agents and understand cancer development.
Structure‐Induced Tunable Multipolar Moments and the Associated Purcell Enhancement in Silicon‐Like Metasurfaces
Authors: Khokhar Megha , Inam Faraz A. , Nair Rajesh V.
Published: December 2022

The recent breakthrough in integrating single quantum emitters to dielectric metasurfaces opens up avenues in quantum technologies with the possibility to obtain on‐demand single photon sources and efficient spin–photon interface. All‐dielectric metasurfaces with unprecedented possibilities of generating directional light scattering instigated a novel concept of the Kerker effect that led to applications in nanophotonics. Here, an all‐dielectric metasurface consisting of silicon‐like nanodisks with square lattice symmetry that exhibits Kerker condition governed by constructive interference of multipoles optimized for the zero‐phonon line (ZPL) of negatively charged nitrogen‐vacancy (NV‐) center at a wavelength of 640 nm is discussed. The phase and amplitude of excited multipolar moments are manipulated by varying the geometrical parameters of the metasurfaces. The constructive interference between multipolar moments generates a Kerker condition, which is tunable by varying the diameter, thickness, refractive index of nanodisks, and substrate refractive index. The Kerker condition is further used to control the emission from a single NV‐ center and a Purcell enhancement of 300 times is achieved at 640 nm. The study profoundly explores new insights into quantum metasurfaces and paves a new way to utilize dielectric resonators with emitters as on‐chip quantum light sources at Kerker condition.
Coupled atmosphere–ocean observations of a cold‐air outbreak and its impact on the Iceland Sea
Authors: Renfrew Ian A. , Huang Jie , Semper Stefanie , Barrell Christopher , Terpstra Annick , Pickart Robert S. , Våge Kjetil , Elvidge Andrew D. , Spengler Thomas , Strehl Anna‐Marie , Weiss Alexandra
Published: December 2022

Marine cold‐air outbreaks (CAOs) are vigorous equatorward excursions of cold air over the ocean, responsible for the majority of wintertime oceanic heat loss from the subpolar seas of the North Atlantic. However, the impact of individual CAO events on the ocean is poorly understood. Here we present the first coupled observations of the atmosphere and ocean during a wintertime CAO event, between 28 February and 13 March 2018, in the subpolar North Atlantic region. Comprehensive observations are presented from five aircraft flights, a research vessel, a meteorological buoy, a subsurface mooring, an ocean glider, and an Argo float. The CAO event starts abruptly with substantial changes in temperature, humidity and wind throughout the atmospheric boundary layer. The CAO is well mixed vertically and, away from the sea‐ice edge, relatively homogeneous spatially. During the CAO peak, higher sensible heat fluxes occupy at least the lowest 200 m of the atmospheric boundary layer, while higher latent heat fluxes are confined to the surface layer. The response of the ocean to the CAO is spatially dependent. In the interior of the Iceland Sea the mixed layer cools, while in the boundary current region it warms. In both locations, the mixed layer deepens and becomes more saline. Combining our observations with one‐dimensional mixed‐layer modelling, we show that in the interior of the Iceland Sea, atmospheric forcing dominates the ocean response. In contrast, in the boundary current region lateral advection and mixing counteract the short‐term impact of the atmospheric forcing. Time series observations of the late‐winter period illustrate a highly variable ocean mixed layer, with lateral advection and mixing often masking the ocean's general cooling and deepening response to individual CAO events.
Gas chromatography coupled to time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry using parallel electron and chemical ionization with permeation tube facilitated reagent ion control for material emission analysis
Authors: Bräkling Steffen , Hinterleitner Christina , Cappellin Luca , Vetter Marleen , Mayer Ingo , Benter Thorsten , Klee Sonja , Kersten Hendrik
Published: December 2022

Rationale

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by an artificial leather part for car interiors are determined using GC–MS (gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer) using simultaneous electron and chemical ionization (EI&CI). A device for swift reagent ion switching in CI mode between consecutive runs is presented.

Methods

VOCs emitted from the investigated material were sampled onto Tenax® absorption tubes using micro emission chambers and subsequently injected into the GC through thermal desorption. The detector was a time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer (TOFMS) simultaneously operating in EI and CI modes during a single chromatographic run. A custom permeation tube setup allowed for swift selection between various reagent ions in CI mode, e.g., [N2H]+, [H3O]+, [(H2O)2H]+, and [NH4]+.

Results

Different reagent ions are swiftly selectable between single GC runs without hardware changes. Differences in precursor ion survival yields and the selectivity of the various reactants were carefully assessed. Several examples for the improved identification of unknown compounds with the available complementary and comprehensive EI&CI data set are demonstrated for a relevant material emission application.

Conclusion

The presented technique provides additional value to the standard GC‐EI/MS procedure commonly used for material emission characterization. It allows for a non‐targeted analysis approach with moderate analysis time.
Covalent organic framework film–based laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry for rapid and sensitive quantification of homocysteine in human serum
Authors: Chen Zihan , Wu Yijing , Ouyang Dan , Lin Zian
Published: December 2022

Rationale

Homocysteine (hcy) is a metabolite in the human body and an important determinant of cardiovascular health. To assist in the assessment of human cardiovascular safety, a rapid and accurate quantitative analysis method must be developed. Laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI‐MS) has been widely used in biological, chemical, and medical analyses due to its excellent characteristics of high throughput, low sample consumption, and high speed. Here, an LDI‐MS method based on covalent organic framework (COF) film was developed for the rapid and sensitive determination of hcy in human serum using an isotope‐labeled internal standard.

Methods

We tried to cultivate COFs on indium−tin oxide substrate at room temperature to form a thin film, which was used in LDI‐MS. Compared with the traditional organic matrices, the COF film had a clean background and a high signal response for the detection of hcy. In addition, using COF film as the substrate, with a high signal intensity and a clean background, can be helpful to analyze a series of small molecules such as amino acids, bisphenols (Bps), estrogens, and drugs. We evaluated the limit of detection (LOD) and the reproducibility of this method. Finally, the calibration curve was constructed for the quantification of serum hcy using an isotope‐labeled internal standard and was applied for the rapid determination of hcy in clinical human serum.

Results

COF film–assisted LDI‐MS had a higher response signal and a cleaner background compared to four conventional organic matrices. The LOD of the method for hcy was 0.5 μmol/L, equivalent to 500 fmol. This method exhibited excellent performance for small‐molecule compounds, including amino acids, Bps, drugs, and estrogens. The reproducibilities of this method for shot‐to‐shot and dot‐to‐dot were determined to be good. This method was applied for the rapid analysis of hcy in clinical human serum, showing good correlation with those obtained by hospital testing.

Conclusion

The COF film–based LDI‐MS method had simple sample preparation, short analysis time, clean background, and good reproducibility for hcy analysis. As an important indicator of human health, the detection of serum hcy is of great significance to human health.
Asymptotic stability for a class of switched stochastic delayed differential systems
Authors: Hu Wei , Zhu Quanxin
Published: December 2022

Several novel th moment asymptotic stability criteria are established for switched stochastic delayed differential systems (SSDDSs) under the framework that the time‐delay is unbounded. These criteria are obtained by constructing some special sets and using the Lyapunov function approach. The features of the criteria show that the form of the unbounded delay plays an important role in keeping the stability of the related systems. As a corollary, if the number of subsystems is only one, the system is reduced to stochastic delayed differential systems (SDDSs), and the criterion of the th moment asymptotic stability for this system is also obtained, which can improve the existing results for SDDSs with unbounded delays. Finally, two numerical examples are given to show the significance of our results.
Learning‐based adaptive‐scenario‐tree model predictive control with improved probabilistic safety using robust Bayesian neural networks
Authors: Bao Yajie , Chan Kimberly J. , Mesbah Ali , Velni Javad Mohammadpour
Published: December 2022

Scenario‐based model predictive control (MPC) methods can mitigate the conservativeness inherent to open‐loop robust MPC. Yet, the scenarios are often generated offline based on worst‐case uncertainty descriptions obtained a priori, which can in turn limit the improvements in the robust control performance. To this end, this paper presents a learning‐based, adaptive‐scenario‐tree model predictive control approach for uncertain nonlinear systems with time‐varying and/or hard‐to‐model dynamics. Bayesian neural networks (BNNs) are used to learn a state‐ and input‐dependent description of model uncertainty, namely the mismatch between a nominal (physics‐based or data‐driven) model of a system and its actual dynamics. We first present a new approach for training robust BNNs (RBNNs) using probabilistic Lipschitz bounds to provide a less conservative uncertainty quantification. Then, we present an approach to evaluate the credible intervals of RBNN predictions and determine the number of samples required for estimating the credible intervals given a credible level. The performance of RBNNs is evaluated with respect to that of standard BNNs and Gaussian process (GP) as a basis of comparison. The RBNN description of plant‐model mismatch with verified accurate credible intervals is employed to generate adaptive scenarios online for scenario‐based MPC (sMPC). The proposed sMPC approach with adaptive scenario tree can improve the robust control performance with respect to sMPC with a fixed, worst‐case scenario tree and with respect to an adaptive‐scenario‐based MPC (asMPC) using GP regression on a cold atmospheric plasma system. Furthermore, closed‐loop simulation results illustrate that robust model uncertainty learning via RBNNs can enhance the probability of constraint satisfaction of asMPC.
Efficient sampling and counting algorithms for the Potts model on ℤd at all temperatures
Authors: Borgs Christian , Chayes Jennifer , Helmuth Tyler , Perkins Will , Tetali Prasad
Published: December 2022

For and all we give an efficient algorithm to approximately sample from the ‐state ferromagnetic Potts and random cluster models on finite tori for any inverse temperature . This shows that the physical phase transition of the Potts model presents no algorithmic barrier to efficient sampling, and stands in contrast to Markov chain mixing time results: the Glauber dynamics mix slowly at and below the critical temperature, and the Swendsen–Wang dynamics mix slowly at the critical temperature. We also provide an efficient algorithm (an FPRAS) for approximating the partition functions of these models at all temperatures. Our algorithms are based on representing the random cluster model as a contour model using Pirogov–Sinai theory. The main innovation of our approach is an algorithmic treatment of unstable ground states, which is essential for our algorithms to apply to all inverse temperatures .
Power analyses for stepped wedge designs with multivariate continuous outcomes
Authors: Davis‐Plourde Kendra , Taljaard Monica , Li Fan
Published: December 2022

Multivariate outcomes are common in pragmatic cluster randomized trials. While sample size calculation procedures for multivariate outcomes exist under parallel assignment, none have been developed for a stepped wedge design. In this article, we present computationally efficient power and sample size procedures for stepped wedge cluster randomized trials (SW‐CRTs) with multivariate outcomes that differentiate the within‐period and between‐period intracluster correlation coefficients (ICCs). Under a multivariate linear mixed model, we derive the joint distribution of the intervention test statistics which can be used for determining power under different hypotheses and provide an example using the commonly utilized intersection‐union test for co‐primary outcomes. Simplifications under a common treatment effect and common ICCs across endpoints and an extension to closed‐cohort designs are also provided. Finally, under the common ICC across endpoints assumption, we formally prove that the multivariate linear mixed model leads to a more efficient treatment effect estimator compared to the univariate linear mixed model, providing a rigorous justification on the use of the former with multivariate outcomes. We illustrate application of the proposed methods using data from an existing SW‐CRT and present extensive simulations to validate the methods.
Exploring the Electronic Influence of β‐Br Substitutions in CuTPP on Electrochemical Overall Water Splitting in Alkaline Medium
Authors: Ahmad Lone Ishfaq , Kumar Ravi
Published: December 2022

Beta substitution has a marked influence on the electronic environment of porphyrin ring atoms and the structure of the substituted porphyrin. In this work, we explore the influence of the bromo (Br) substitution at the β‐positions of copper tetraphenylporphyrin (CuTPP) and its consequent influence on the electrocatalytic alkaline overall water splitting. The β‐Br substitution is expected to exercise a strong influence on the electronic environment of central Cu through the electronic effects of Br. The overall influence of electronic effects is seen to lead to the net increase in the electron density of the central Cu (observed from XPS shifts) which is ultimately reflected in their different HER and OER performance in the alkaline medium. We observe the HER overpotentials (for 10 mA cm−2) of 697 mV, 760 mV, 838 mV, and 883 mV for the unsubstituted, bisubstituted, tetrasubstituted, and octasubstituted [Cu(TPP)]. The OER performance on the contrary depicts the reverse order with the overpotentials of 1118 mV, 827 mV, 637 mV, and 420 mV respectively for unsubstituted, bisubstituted, tetrasubstituted, and octasubstituted [Cu(TPP)]. The observed shifts in the catalytic performance can directly be attributed to increasing charge density on the central metal Cu2+ with the increase in the number of Br groups which in turn has opposite consequences for HER and OER performance.
Two‐Dimensional FePS3 Nanosheets as an Integrative Sonosensitizer/Nanocatalyst for Efficient Nanodynamic Tumor Therapy
Authors: Lin Shiyang , Yang Mai , Chen Jiajie , Feng Wei , Chen Yu , Zhu Yufang
Published: December 2022

As the emerging modalities for tumor therapy, sonodynamic therapy (SDT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT) can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), typically inducing tumor cell apoptosis. However, the construction of more efficient sonosensitizers integrated with excellent Fenton/Fenton‐like catalytic activity to improve the synergistic therapeutic effect of SDT and CDT is still highly challenging. In this study, 2D semiconductor FePS3 nanosheets (NSs), as one of the metal phosphorus trichalcogenides for both sonosensitizer and Fenton catalyst, are successfully synthesized via an ultrasonic‐assisted liquid phase exfoliation method from bulk FePS3 and further modified with lipoic acid‐polyethylene glycol (LA‐PEG) to obtain FePS3‐PEG NSs with desirable biocompatibility. The in vitro and in vivo results demonstrate that the engineered FePS3‐PEG NSs induce the combinatorial SDT/CDT effect attributing to the enhanced ROS generation and significant glutathione depletion, which can conduct highly efficient and safe tumor inhibition and prolong the life span of tumor‐bearing mice. This work provides the paradigm of semiconductor FePS3 NSs as the integrative sonosensitizer/Fenton nanocatalyst for dual nanodynamic tumor therapy, paving the new way for exploring other 2D metal phosphorus trichalcogenides in biomedicine.