bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of unmet basic resource needs with frailty and quality of life among older adults with cancer—Results from the CARE registry
Authors: Williams Grant R. , Fowler Mackenzie , Giri Smith , Dai Chen , Harmon Christian , Al‐Obaidi Mustafa , Stephenson Coryn , Bona Kira , Landier Wendy , Bhatia Smita , Wolfson Julie
Published: May 2023

Background

Basic resource needs related to transportation, housing, food, and medications are important social determinants of health and modifiable indicators of poverty, but their role in modifying the risk of frailty and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) remains unknown. The goal of our study was to examine the prevalence of unmet basic needs and their association with frailty and HRQoL in a cohort of older adults with cancer.

Methods

The CARE registry prospectively enrolls older adults (≥60 years) with cancer. Assessments of transportation, housing, and material hardship were added to the CARE tool in 8/2020. The 44‐item CARE Frailty Index was used to define frailty, and subdomains of physical and mental HRQoL were assessed using the PROMIS® 10‐global. Multivariable analysis examined the association between unmet needs with frailty and HRQoL subdomains, adjusting for covariates.

Results

The cohort included 494 participants. Median age of 69 years, 63.6% were male and 20.2% were Non‐Hispanic (NH) Black. Unmet basic needs were reported in 17.8% (transportation 11.5%, housing 2.8%, and material hardship 7.5%). Those with unmet needs were more often NH Black (33.0% vs. 17.8%, p = 0.006) and less educated (<high school: 19.5% vs. 9.7%, p = 0.023). Compared to those without unmet needs, unmet needs were associated with higher odds of frailty (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.3, 95% CI 1.8–5.9), low physical (aOR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.8) and low mental (aOR = 2.5, 95% CI 1.4–4.4) HRQoL.

Conclusions

Unmet basic needs represent a novel exposure that is independently associated with frailty and low HRQoL and warrants the development of targeted interventions.
Components and effectiveness of patient navigation programmes to increase participation to breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening: A systematic review
Authors: Mosquera Isabel , Todd Adam , Balaj Mirza , Zhang Li , Benitez Majano Sara , Mensah Keitly , Eikemo Terje Andreas , Basu Partha , Carvalho Andre L.
Published: May 2023

Background

Inequalities in cancer incidence and mortality can be partly explained by unequal access to high‐quality health services, including cancer screening. Several interventions have been described to increase access to cancer screening, among them patient navigation (PN), a barrier‐focused intervention. This systematic review aimed to identify the reported components of PN and to assess the effectiveness of PN to promote breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening.

Methods

We searched Embase, PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection databases. The components of PN programmes were identified, including the types of barriers addressed by navigators. The percentage change in screening participation was calculated.

Results

The 44 studies included were mainly on colorectal cancer and were conducted in the USA. All described their goals and community characteristics, and the majority reported the setting (97.7%), monitoring and evaluation (97.7%), navigator background and qualifications (81.4%) and training (79.1%). Supervision was only referred to in 16 studies (36.4%). Programmes addressed mainly barriers at the educational (63.6%) and health system level (61.4%), while only 25.0% reported providing social and emotional support. PN increased cancer screening participation when compared with usual care (0.4% to 250.6% higher) and educational interventions (3.3% to 3558.0% higher).

Conclusion

Patient navigation programmes are effective at increasing participation to breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening. A standardized reporting of the components of PN programmes would allow their replication and a better measure of their impact. Understanding the local context and needs is essential to design a successful PN programme.
3D motion analysis of kick start motion−Effects of upper limb movements on the body when leaving the platform−
Authors: Hyodo Hiroki , Wada Tadashi
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of the presence or absence of upper limb movement on the propulsion direction body velocity (TPV) leaving the platform at kick start. The first trial (Standard trial) is a normal kick start, and the second trial (Lower trial) is the same as a normal kick start. The force from the upper limb movement at the time was set so that the start table was not applied, and the start movement calculated the 3D coordinates of the marker attached to the body by 3D movement analysis. As a result, in the movement speed at the time of leaving the platform, the standard trial had a significantly higher value in the propulsion direction and a significantly lower value in the vertical movement speed than the lower trial. In addition, since the standard trial had a significantly lower value in the jumping angle when leaving the platform, the role of the upper limb movement in kick start is to promote by making the jumping angle closer to the horizontal when leaving the platform. It was suggested that it may affect the directional velocity.
Recent advances of cellular stimulation with triboelectric nanogenerators
Authors: Zhou Xingyu , Li Gaocai , Wu Di , Liang Huaizhen , Zhang Weifeng , Zeng Lingli , Zhu Qianqian , Lai Puxiang , Wen Zhen , Yang Cao , Pan Yue
Published: May 2023

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are new energy collection devices that have the characteristics of high efficiency, low cost, miniaturization capability, and convenient manufacture. TENGs mainly utilize the triboelectric effect to obtain mechanical energy from organisms or the environment, and this mechanical energy is then converted into and output as electrical energy. Bioelectricity is a phenomenon that widely exists in various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, senescence, apoptosis, as well as adjacent cells’ communication and coordination. Therefore, based on these features, TENGs can be applied in organisms to collect energy and output electrical stimulation to act on cells, changing their activities and thereby playing a role in regulating cellular function and interfering with cellular fate, which can further develop into new methods of health care and disease intervention. In this review, we first introduce the working principle of TENGs and their working modes, and then summarize the current research status of cellular function regulation and fate determination stimulated by TENGs, and also analyze their application prospects for changing various processes of cell activity. Finally, we discuss the opportunities and challenges of TENGs in the fields of life science and biomedical engineering, and propose a variety of possibilities for their potential development direction.
Hydrogenated silicene nanosheet functionalized scaffold enables immuno‐bone remodeling
Authors: Lin Zixuan , Chen Zhixin , Chen Yiwei , Yang Nan , Shi Jianlin , Tang Zhongmin , Zhang Changqing , Lin Han , Yin Junhui
Published: May 2023

An ideal implant needs to have the ability to coordinate the foreign body response and tissue regeneration. Here, Hydrogenated‐silicon nanosheets (H‐Si NSs) with favorable biodegradability are integrated and functionalized into a β‐tricalcium phosphate scaffold (H‐Si TCP) for bone defect healing. H‐Si TCP can greatly improve bone regeneration through osteoimmunomodulation‐guided biodegradation in vivo. The spatiotemporal regulation of degradation products replenishes sufficient nutrients step by step for the entire process of bone repair. Extracellular and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) are first downregulated by reaction with H‐Si NSs, followed by marked M2 polarization, remodeling the micro‐environment timely for immune‐bone regeneration. The release of primary reaction products awakened bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), which are converted into osteoblasts anchored on scaffolds. Subsequently, biomineralization is promoted by the final degradation products. The intrinsic ROS‐responsive, immunoregulatory, and osteo‐promotive capability of 2D H‐Si NSs makes such composite H‐Si TCP scaffold a highly potential alternative for the treatment of critical bone defect.
Effect of walnut peptide‐ZnO nanocomposites on the colon adhesion behavior of Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRa05
Authors: Liang Ming , Wang Min , Zhou Miao , Nie Shiying , Xu Yongzhao , Yang Xinquan , Yuan Erdong , Ren Jiaoyan
Published: May 2023

When the nanoparticles (NPs) in food contact materials are exposed, they may be ingested with the food matrix, resulting in unknown impacts. Here, the biological response of the nanocomposites of nano zinc oxide (nZnO) and walnut protein‐derived peptides (i.e., PW5, WN5, AE6, and WE7) on the Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRa05 growth and adhesion was studied. In an in vitro mouse intestinal adhesion model, we first spotted that the probiotics LRa05 primarily adhered to and colonized the colonic segment. nZnO effectively inhibited the growth and adhesion properties of LRa05 at high concentrations (≥ 1000 μg/mL). Fortunately, when compared to the individual nZnO, the nZnO‐walnut‐derived peptides nanocomposites significantly increased the growth of LRa05. It was found that the alterations in the adhesion ability of LRa05 after treatment with various substances (nZnO and nanocomposites of nZnO‐walnut peptides) were related to the auto‐aggregating property on the LRa05 surface. These results shed light on the effect of food matrices on the safety of nanomaterials in food, and they may have far‐reaching implications for the use of nanomaterials in the food industry.
Rationally designed graphene channels for real‐time sodium ion detection for electronic tongue
Authors: Lee Chung Won , Jun Sang Eon , Kim Seung Ju , Lee Tae Hyung , Lee Sol A. , Yang Jin Wook , Cho Jin Hyuk , Choi Shinyoung , Kim Cheol‐joo , Kim Soo Young , Jang Ho Won
Published: May 2023

Monitoring taste‐inducing ions and molecules continuously in liquids or solutions is of great considerable matter for the realization of the electronic tongue (E‐tongue). Particularly from the five major tastes, the highly selective, sensitive detection of Na+ in real‐time is prioritized. Prioritization is due to the saltiness of food is the key ingredient in most meals. Nevertheless, existing Na+ detecting devices have relatively low performances of selectivity, sensitivity, and lack of on–off functions. Additionally, conventional devices significantly deteriorate in capacity due to repetitive usage or lifetime shortage by degradation of the sensing material. Herein, a graphene‐based channel was rationally designed by the facile decoration of Calix[4]arene and Nafion to address this issue. They act as a receptor and a molecular sieve, respectively, to enhance selectivity and sensitivity and elongate the life expectancy of the device. This device was merged with a microfluidic channel to control the injection and withdrawal of solutions to fulfill dynamic on–off functions. The fabricated device has highly selective, sensitive Na+ detection properties compared to other 10 molecule/ionic species. Dynamic on–off functions of the device were available, also possesses a long lifespan of at least 220 days. Additionally, it can precisely discriminate real beverages containing Na+, which can be observed by principal component analysis plot. These features offer the possibility of ascending to a platform for E‐tongues in near future.

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Bidirectional relationship between bullying victimization and functions of aggression in adolescents: The mediating effect of teacher justice
Authors: Ren Ping , Wang Yue , Liang Yiting , Li Simeng , Wang Quanquan
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Bullying victimization and aggression are frequent phenomena among adolescents and have been linked to various mental health problems. Although the correlation between bullying victimization and aggression is well‐documented, the direction between the two has been debated. Moreover, the underlying mechanism through which victimization influences aggression or vice versa has gained little attention. The current study used data across two‐time points to address this gap and explore the reciprocal relationships between victimization and aggression. The mediating role of teacher justice and related gender differences were also examined.

Methods

A total of 2462 Chinese adolescents (50.9% boys; Mage  =  13.95 years, SD = 0.60) completed measures on two occasions in 1 year with 6‐month assessment intervals. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the longitudinal relations among the variables.

Results

Results found that bullying victimization significantly and positively predicted both reactive and proactive aggression over time among the total sample. Reactive aggression significantly positively predicted victimization, while proactive aggression negatively predicted victimization in boys. Furthermore, teacher justice mediated the relationships between victimization and both functions of aggression. Mediation was gender‐specific, with a significant mediating effect on girls.

Conclusions

The results reveal the violent cycle of bullying victimization and aggression and underscore the role of teacher justice in this process. These findings have important implications for targeted interventions.
Biofabrication of silver nanoparticles employing biomolecules of Paraclostridium benzoelyticum strain: Its characterization and their in‐vitro antibacterial, anti‐aging, anti‐cancer and other biomedical applications
Authors: Faisal Shah , Ullah Riaz , Alotaibi Amal , Zafar Sania , Rizwan Muhammad , Tariq Muhammad Hamza
Published: May 2023

The current study aims to utilize the bacteria Paraclostridium benzoelyticum strain 5610 to synthesize bio‐genic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Biogenic AgNPs were thoroughly examined using various characterization techniques such as UV‐spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, SEM, and EDX. Synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed by UV–vis analysis resulting in absorption peak at 448.31 nm wavelength. The SEM analysis indicated the morphological characteristics and size of AgNPs which was 25.29 nm. The face centered cubic (FCC) crystallographic structure was confirmed by XRD. Furthermore, FTIR study affirmed the capping of AgNPs by different compounds found in biomass of the Paraclostridium benzoelyticum strain 5610. Later, EDX was used to determine the elemental composition with respective concentration and distribution. Additionally, in the current study the antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, anti‐aging, and anti‐cancer ability of AgNPs was assessed. The antibacterial activity of AgNPs was tested against four distinct sinusitis pathogens: Haemophilus in‐fluenza, Streptococcus pyogenes, Moraxella catarrhalis and Streptococcus pneumonia. AgNPs shows significant inhibition zone against Streptococcus pyogenes 16.64 ± 0.35 followed by 14.32 ± 071 for Moraxella catarrhalis. Similarly, the antioxidant potential was found maximum (68.37 ± 0.55%) at 400 μg/mL and decrease (5.48 ± 0.65%) at 25 μg/mL, hence the significant antioxidant ability was observed. Furthermore, anti‐inflammatory activity of AgNPs shows the strongest inhibitory action (42.68 ± 0.62%) for 15‐LOX with lowest inhibition activity for COX‐2 (13.16 ± 0.46%). AgNPs have been shown to exhibit significant inhibitory actions against the enzyme elastases AGEs (66.25 ± 0.49%), which are followed by AGEs of visperlysine (63.27 ± 0.69%). Furthermore, the AgNPs show high toxicity against HepG2 cell line which shows 53.543% reduction in the cell viability after 24 h of treatment. The anti‐inflammatory activity demonstrated a potent inhibitory effect of the bio‐inspired AgNPs. Overall, the biogenic AgNPs have the ability to be served for the treatments of anti‐aging and also due to their anti‐cancer, antioxidant abilities NPs may be a useful therapy choice for a variety of disorders including cancer, bacterial infections and other inflammatory diseases. Moreover, further studies are required in the future to evaluate their in vivo biomedical applications.

Highlights

Biogenic synthesis of AgNPs using Paraclostridium benzoelyticum Strain for the first time.

FTIR analysis confirmed capping of potent biomolecules which are of great use in applied field especially Nanomedicines.

Notable antimicrobial activity against sinusitis bacteria and cytotoxic potential of synthesized AgNPs on in vitro basis produce a new idea shifting us to treat cancerous cell lines.
Gallic and ferulic acids suppress proteolytic activities and volatile trimethylamine production in the food‐borne spoiler Rahnella aquatilis KM05
Authors: Myszka Kamila , Tomaś Natalia , Wolko Łukasz
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Rahnella aquatilis is a recognised microbial threat that alters the sensory properties of seafood. The high frequency with which R. aquatilis is isolated from fish has prompted a search for alternative preservatives. In the present study, in vitro and fish‐based ecosystem (raw salmon‐based medium) approaches were used to validate the antimicrobial effects of gallic (GA) and ferulic (FA) acids against R. aquatilis KM05. The results were compared with data describing the response of KM05 to sodium benzoate. Bioinformatics data of the whole genome were used to analyse the potential for fish spoilage by KM05 in detail, and the results revealed the main physiological characteristics that underlie reduced seafood quality.

RESULTS

In the KM05 genome, the most abundantly enriched Gene Ontology terms were ‘metabolic process’, ‘organic substance metabolic process’ and ‘cellular process’. Through an evaluation of the Pfam annotations, 15 annotations were found to be directly involved in the proteolytic activity of KM05. Peptidase_M20 was the most abundantly represented (abundance value of 14060). Proteins representing the CutC family (abundance value of 427) indicated the potential for KM05 degradation of trimethyl‐amine‐N‐oxide. Subinhibitory concentrations of GA and FA suppressed the proteolytic activities of KM05 both in vitro and in RS medium by an average of 33–45%. These results were confirmed by quantitative real‐time PCR experiments, which also showed that the expression levels of genes involved in proteolytic activities and volatile trimethylamine production were also decreased.

CONCLUSION

Phenolic compounds can be used as potential food additives for preventing quality deterioration of fish products. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comprehensive quality evaluation of plant‐based cheese analogues
Authors: Fan Mengmeng , Wei Teng , Lu Xiang , Liu Mengge , Huang Yingchao , Chen Fang , Luo Ting , Fan Yawei , Liu Rong , Deng Zeyuan , Li Jing
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for plant‐based cheese analogues, however, the protein content of plant‐based cheeses currently on the market is generally low and cannot meet the nutritional needs of consumers.

RESULTS

Based on the ideal value similarity method (TOPSIS) analysis the best recipe for plant‐based cheese was 15% tapioca starch, 20% soy protein isolate, 7% gelatine as a quality enhancer and 15% coconut oil. The protein content of this plant‐based cheese was170.1 g kg−1, which was close to commercial dairy‐based cheese and significantly higher than commercial plant‐based cheese, The fat content was 114.7 g kg−1, lower than that of commercial dairy‐based cheese. The rheology properties show that the viscoelasticity of the plant‐based cheese is higher than that of dairy‐based cheese and commercial plant‐based. The microstructure results show that the type and content of protein has a significant impact on its microstructure. The Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum of the microstructure shows a characteristic value at 1700 cm−1, because the starch was heated and leached to form a complex with lauric acid under the action of hydrogen bond. It can be inferred that in the interaction between plant‐based cheese raw materials, fatty acids serve as a bridge between starch and protein.

COUCLUSION

This study described the formula of plant‐based cheese and the interaction mechanism between the ingredients, providing a basis for the development of subsequent plant‐based cheese related products. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Excellent response to adalimumab in a patient with Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome: A case report
Authors: Almukhadeb Eman , Alanazi Wael , Alshareef Rahaf , Altukhaim Feras , Albalbeesi Amal
Published: May 2023

Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome (PLS) is a rare autosomal recessive disease that presents clinically with palmoplantar keratoderma and periodontitis and results in early‐onset dental loss. PLS management is difficult. We report a 30‐year‐old female with PLS who had unfavourable response to topical keratolytic creams, oral isotretinoin and narrow‐band ultraviolet‐B (NB‐UVB) phototherapy but showed significant clinical improvement to adalimumab.
Long‐term secukinumab efficacy and safety in bio‐naïve patients with moderate‐to‐severe cutaneous psoriasis: A real‐world retrospective noninterventional multicentric experience (128 patients)
Authors: Melgosa Ramos Francisco Javier , Mateu Puchades Almudena , Guillén Climent Santiago , Galarreta Pascual Marta , Saéz Belló Marina , Martínez Ferrer María Angels , Alberola Fernando Toledo , Magdaleno Tapial Jorge , Sánchez Carazo Jose Luís , Díaz Javier Matáix , Schneller‐Pavelescu Apetrei Luca , García Fernández Laura , González Villanueva Iris , Belinchón Romero Isabel , Martín Jiménez Sergio , Santos Alarcón Sergio
Published: May 2023

Background

There is limited evidence over the real‐life secukinumab survival in psoriatic patients, especially in the long‐term bio‐naïve subjects, and to date biological treatments have been assessed in patients with a chronic and recalcitrant psoriasis. It has been hypothesised that early intensive treatment with biological therapies could decrease pathogenic tissue resident memory (TRm) cells migration and potentially modify the natural course of psoriasis and related comorbidities.

Objectives

To analyze long‐term secukinumab efficacy, safety and survival, and its predictive factors for psoriasis treatment determining also whether early intervention may result in better outcomes for patients.

Methods

Bio‐naïve psoriatic patients under treatment with secukinumab (n = 128 patients) in a daily practice setting were analyzed in a retrospective multicentric study and followed up to 8 years. Drug survival rate, efficacy, posology and safety were reported.

Results

The overall secukinumab survival was 81.9% for an average treatment exposure of 147.9 weeks. The approved posology was the most commonly prescribed regimen (78.7%), and 17.7% could be optimized. An absolut‐PASI ≤3 was reached by 86.6%, 82.6% and 91.7% at the weeks 48,156 and 264, respectively. The incidence of arthritis or psoriasis related comorbidities was low. The response was not influenced by weight, age (>65), gender or the presence of arthritis. No severe adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

In our bio‐naïve series, the high efficacy and long‐term survival rates observed and the low prevalence of arthritis and comorbidities might suggest that early intervention could contribute to modify the course of the disease, but further studies are needed.
RAS‐targeted cancer therapy: Advances in drugging specific mutations
Authors: Liu Cen , Ye Danyang , Yang Hongliu , Chen Xu , Su Zhijun , Li Xia , Ding Mei , Liu Yonggang
Published: May 2023

Rat sarcoma (RAS), as a frequently mutated oncogene, has been studied as an attractive target for treating RAS‐driven cancers for over four decades. However, it is until the recent success of kirsten‐RAS (KRAS)G12C inhibitor that RAS gets rid of the title “undruggable”. It is worth noting that the therapeutic effect of KRASG12C inhibitors on different RAS allelic mutations or even different cancers with KRASG12C varies significantly. Thus, deep understanding of the characteristics of each allelic RAS mutation will be a prerequisite for developing new RAS inhibitors. In this review, the structural and biochemical features of different RAS mutations are summarized and compared. Besides, the pathological characteristics and treatment responses of different cancers carrying RAS mutations are listed based on clinical reports. In addition, the development of RAS inhibitors, either direct or indirect, that target the downstream components in RAS pathway is summarized as well. Hopefully, this review will broaden our knowledge on RAS‐targeting strategies and trigger more intensive studies on exploiting new RAS allele‐specific inhibitors.
Joint radial trajectory correction for accelerated T2* mapping on an MR‐Linac
Authors: Bano Wajiha , Holmes Will , Goodburn Rosie , Golbabaee Mohammad , Gupta Amit , Withey Sam , Tree Alison , Oelfke Uwe , Wetscherek Andreas
Published: May 2023

Background

T2* mapping can characterize tumor hypoxia, which may be associated with resistance to therapy. Acquiring T2* maps during MR‐guided radiotherapy could inform treatment adaptation by, for example, escalating the dose to resistant sub‐volumes.

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the feasibility of the accelerated T2* mapping technique using model‐based image reconstruction with integrated trajectory auto‐correction (TrACR) for MR‐guided radiotherapy on an MR‐Linear accelerator (MR‐Linac).

Materials and methods

The proposed method was validated in a numerical phantom, where two T2* mapping approaches (sequential and joint) were compared for different noise levels (0,0.1,0.5,1) and gradient delays ([1, ‐1] and [1, ‐2] in units of dwell time for x‐ and y‐axis, respectively). Fully sampled k‐space was retrospectively undersampled using two different undersampling patterns. Root mean square errors (RMSEs) were calculated between reconstructed T2* maps and ground truth. In vivo data was acquired twice weekly in one prostate and one head and neck cancer patient undergoing treatment on a 1.5 T MR‐Linac. Data were retrospectively undersampled and T2* maps reconstructed, with and without trajectory corrections were compared.

Results

Numerical simulations demonstrated that, for all noise levels, T2* maps reconstructed with a joint approach demonstrated less error compared to an uncorrected and sequential approach. For a noise level of 0.1, uniform undersampling and gradient delay [1, ‐1] (in units of dwell time for x‐ and y‐axis, respectively), RMSEs for sequential and joint approaches were 13.01 and 9.32 ms, respectively, which reduced to 10.92 and 5.89 ms for a gradient delay of [1, 2]. Similarly, for alternate undersampling and gradient delay [1, ‐1], RMSEs for sequential and joint approaches were 9.80 and 8.90 ms, respectively, which reduced to 9.10 and 5.40 ms for gradient delay [1, 2]. For in vivo data, T2* maps reconstructed with our proposed approach resulted in less artifacts and improved visual appearance compared to the uncorrected approach. For both prostate and head and neck cancer patients, T2* maps reconstructed from different treatment fractions showed changes within the planning target volume (PTV).

Conclusion

Using the proposed approach, a retrospective data‐driven gradient delay correction can be performed, which is particularly relevant for hybrid devices, where full information on the machine configuration is not available for image reconstruction. T2* maps were acquired in under 5 min and can be integrated into MR‐guided radiotherapy treatment workflows, which minimizes patient burden and leaves time for additional imaging for online adaptive radiotherapy on an MR‐Linac.
Robust online detection in serially correlated directed network
Authors: Yu Miaomiao , Zhou Yuhao , Tsung Fugee
Published: May 2023

As the complexity of production processes increases, the diversity of data types drives the development of network monitoring technology. This paper mainly focuses on an online algorithm to detect serially correlated directed networks robustly and sensitively. First, we consider a transition probability matrix to resolve the double correlation of primary data. Further, since the sum of each row of the transition probability matrix is one, it standardizes the data, facilitating subsequent modeling. Then we extend the spring length based method to the multivariate case and propose an adaptive cumulative sum (CUSUM) control chart on the strength of a weighted statistic to monitor directed networks. This novel approach assumes only that the process observation is associated with nearby points without any parametric time series model, which is in line with reality. Simulation results and a real example from metro transportation demonstrate the superiority of our design.
Exploring the impact of pediatric short bowel syndrome on parent well‐being using a disease‐specific pilot survey
Authors: Neumann Marie L. , Allen Jessica Y. , Ladner Amy , Kakani Swapna , Weaver Meaghann S. , Mercer David F.
Published: May 2023

Background

Children with short bowel syndrome (SBS) have complex care needs, most of which are met in the home by family caregivers who may experience a range of stressors unique to this experience. Prior research suggests that parents of children with SBS have poorer health‐related quality of life than peers parenting children without health needs, but the mechanisms shaping parent outcomes are understudied.

Methods

A pilot survey was developed using a community‐driven research design to measure the impact of disease‐specific items on parent‐perceived well‐being. The cross‐sectional survey, which included both closed‐ended and open‐ended items, was distributed to a convenience sample of parents of children with SBS. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated for a mixed‐methods analysis of how individual items impacted parent well‐being.

Results

Twenty parents completed the survey. Sleep interruptions, lack of support and resources, and psychological stressors and their mental health implications were more frequently reported as stressors than logistics related to caregiving (e.g., managing therapies and preparing specialized meals).

Conclusion

The impact of a child's SBS on parent well‐being may stem mainly from three interconnected domains: poor sleep and its consequences, lack of access to support and resources, and a range of psychological stressors that affect parent mental health. Understanding the mechanisms through which SBS shapes parent well‐being is a necessary first step for developing targeted interventions to support parents and provide family‐centered care.
Exposure to a more unhealthy diet impacts sleep microstructure during normal sleep and recovery sleep: A randomized trial
Authors: Brandão Luiz Eduardo Mateus , Popa Alexandru , Cedernaes Erasmus , Cedernaes Christopher , Lampola Lauri , Cedernaes Jonathan
Published: May 2023

Objective

Although intake of specific macronutrients has been associated with sleep parameters, interventional evidence is lacking. Therefore, this randomized trial was conducted to examine how a more unhealthy high‐fat/high‐sugar (HFHS) diet impacts sleep in humans.

Methods

In a crossover study, 15 healthy young men consumed two isocaloric diets in random order for a week: an HFHS and a low‐fat/low‐sugar diet. Following each diet, in‐lab sleep was recorded using polysomnography during a full night of sleep and during recovery sleep after extended wakefulness. Sleep duration, macrostructure, and microstructure (oscillatory pattern and slow waves) were investigated using machine learning‐based algorithms.

Results

Sleep duration did not differ across the diets based on actigraphy and the in‐lab polysomnography. Sleep macrostructure was similar after 1 week on each diet. Compared with the low‐fat/low‐sugar diet, consumption of the HFHS diet resulted in reduced delta power, delta to beta ratio, and slow wave amplitude but increased alpha and theta power during deep sleep. During recovery sleep, similar sleep oscillatory changes were observed.

Conclusions

Short‐term consumption of a more unhealthy diet alters sleep oscillatory features that regulate the restorative properties of sleep. Whether such changes can mediate adverse health outcomes associated with consumption of an unhealthier diet warrants investigation.
Effects of Language, Age, and Hearing Loss on Health‐Related Quality of Life
Authors: Ma Harrison J. , Orozco Francis Reyes , Raj Christine K. , Herrera Kevin , Parsons John C. , Kim Ian , Hur Kevin
Published: May 2023

Objective

To understand the effect of age on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with hearing loss and determine how primary language mediates this relationship.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

General otolaryngology clinic in Los Angeles.

Methods

Demographics, medical records, and HRQoL data of adult patients presenting with otology symptoms were reviewed. HRQoL was measured using the Short‐Form 6‐Dimension utility index. All patients underwent audiological testing. A path analysis was performed to generate a moderated path analysis with HRQoL as the primary outcome.

Results

This study included 255 patients (mean age = 54 years; 55% female; 27.8% did not speak English as a primary language). Age had a positive direct association with HRQoL (p < .001). However, the direction of this association was reversed by hearing loss. Older patients exhibited significantly worse hearing (p < .001), which was negatively associated with HRQoL (p < .05). Primary language moderated the relationship between age and hearing loss. Specifically, patients who did not speak English as a primary language had significantly worse hearing (p < .001) and therefore worse HRQoL (p < .01) than patients who spoke English as a primary language with hearing loss. Increasing age was associated with bilateral hearing loss compared to unilateral hearing loss (p < .001) and subsequently lower HRQoL (p < .001). Polypharmacy (p < .01) and female gender (p < .01) were significantly associated with lower HRQoL.

Conclusion

Among otolaryngology patients with otology symptoms, older age and not speaking English as a primary language were associated with worse hearing and subsequently lower HRQoL.
Evaluation of polyaniline protonation onPLGApolycondensation viaSty‐DVB/Pani catalyst
Authors: Gomes Naylon Barroso , Moura Bruno Henrique Ferraz , Chaves Andréa Rodrigues , Rabelo Denilson
Published: May 2023

This study presents a method to polymerize aniline in styrene‐divinylbenzene copolymer pores using benzoyl peroxide as an initiator. The composites are sulfonated, impregnated with tin oxide (IV) and used as heterogeneous catalysts in the direct polycondensation synthesis of PLGA. Evaluation of parameters such as molar proportion, temperature, time, quantity and type of catalyst were carried out. The characterization of composites and PLGA's were performed by: elemental analysis, DRX, FTIR, nitrogen adsorption–desorption, Brønsted acid site determination, SEM, ICP/OES, and inherent viscosity. The polyaniline deprotonation before thermal treatment enhances crosslinking, increasing surface area and stability of the porous structure. The composite acts as a catalyst, increasing PLGA molar mass, reducing oxidation and tin contamination. The process has several advantages like PLGA production without solvent contamination, lower tin content, and no high‐cost cyclic dimmers use. So far, the results show promising catalytic performance of the developed composite.
Molecularly imprinted polymer preparations for selective detection of C‐reactive protein: Thermodynamic and kinetic studies
Authors: Öter Çiğdem , Tawfeeq Abdulqader
Published: May 2023

C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a member of the pentraxin protein group. CRP is considered an acute‐phase protein produced by the liver during inflammation in various diseases limited to pathogenic infections. It is very important that serum CRP concentration can be measured quickly, reliably and easily. Therefore, a three‐dimensional crosslinked molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) with selective recognition sites for CRP was synthesized (CRP‐MIP) and characterization analyzes (scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, and thermogravimetric analysis) were performed. The binding abilities of the synthesized polymers by adsorption of CRP in aqueous solution were evaluated in detail and compared with the abilities of an unprinted polymer (CRP‐NIP) used as a reference. It was found that the MIP prepared by the printing effect selectively adsorbed the template molecule CRP. For this effect, the selectivity of MIP toward CRP and various positive acute‐phase reactants such as α1‐antitrypsin and α1‐acid glycoprotein was evaluated and high selectivity toward CRP was obtained. CRP‐MIP was used to remove CRP from crude human serum, and the recovery was up to 91%. Adsorption process of CRP from aqueous solutions on polymeric adsorbents; equilibrium was evaluated in terms of kinetic and thermodynamic conditions and the necessary parameters to describe the process were calculated under these conditions. Adsorption data: the pseudo‐first order kinetic model, the pseudo‐second order kinetic model, the Elovich kinetic model and the intraparticle diffusion model were studied and the thermodynamic parameters ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS° were calculated.
Trends in prostate cancer incidence among Black men in the Caribbean and the United States
Authors: Zeigler‐Johnson Charnita , McDonald Alicia C. , Pinheiro Paulo , Lynch Shannon , Taioli Emanuela , Joshi Shivam , Alpert Naomi , Baudin Jacqueline , Joachim Clarisse , Deloumeaux Jacqueline , Oliver JoAnn , Bhakkan‐Mambir Bernard , Beaubrun‐Renard Murielle , Ortiz Angel G. , Ragin Camille
Published: May 2023

Background

Prostate cancer incidence is highest for Black men of the African diaspora in the United States and Caribbean. Recent changes in recommendations for prostate cancer screening have been shown to decrease overall prostate cancer incidence and increase the likelihood of late stage disease. However, it is unclear how trends in prostate cancer characteristics among high risk Black men differ by geographic region during the changes in screening recommendations.

Methods

In this study, we used population‐based prostate cancer registry data to describe age‐adjusted prostate cancer incidence trends from 2008 to 2015 among Black men from six geographic regions. We obtained data on incident Black prostate cancer patients from six cancer registries (in the United States: Florida, Alabama, Pennsylvania, and New York; and in the Caribbean: Guadeloupe and Martinique). After age standardization, we used descriptive analyses to compare the demographics and tumor characteristics by cancer registry site. The Joinpoint regression program was used to compare the trends in incidence by site.

Results

A total of 59,246 men were analyzed. We found the highest incidence rates (per 100,000) for prostate cancer in the Caribbean countries (181.99 in Martinique and 176.62 in Guadeloupe) and New York state (178.74). Incidence trends decreased significantly over time at all sites except Martinique, which also showed significantly increasing rates of late stage (III/IV) and Gleason score 7+ tumors.

Conclusions

We observed significant differences in prostate cancer incidence trends among Black men after major changes prostate screening recommendations. Future studies will examine the factors that differentially influence prostate cancer trends among the African diaspora.
A CXCR4 inhibitor (balixafortide) enhances docetaxel‐mediated antitumor activity in a murine model of prostate cancer bone metastasis
Authors: Robinson Tyler , Escara‐Wilke June , Dai Jinlu , Zimmermann Johann , Keller Evan T.
Published: May 2023

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) bone metastases have been shown to be more resistant to docetaxel than soft tissue metastases. The proinflammatory chemokine receptor CXCR4 has been shown to confer resistance to docetaxel (DOC) in PCa cells. Balixafortide (BLX) is a protein epitope mimetic inhibitor of CXCR4. Accordingly, we hypothesized that BLX would enhance DOC‐mediated antitumor activity in PCa bone metastases.

Methods

PC‐3 luciferase‐labeled cells were injected into the tibia of mice to model bone metastases. Four treatment groups were created: vehicle, DOC (5 mg/kg), BLX (20 mg/kg), and combo (receiving both DOC and BLX). Mice were injected twice daily subcutaneously with either vehicle or BLX starting on Day 1 and weekly intraperitoneally with DOC starting on Day 1. Tumor burden was measured weekly via bioluminescent imaging. At end of study (29 days), radiographs were taken of the tibiae and blood was collected. Serum levels of TRAcP, IL‐2, and IFNγ levels were measured using ELISA. Harvested tibiae were decalcified and stained for Ki67, cleaved caspase‐3, and CD34 positive cells or microvessels were quantified.

Results

Tumor burden was lower in the combo group compared to the DOC alone group. Treatment with the combination had no impact on the number of mice with osteolytic lesions, however the area of osteolytic lesions was lower in the combo group compared to the vehicle and BLX groups, but not the DOC group. Serum TRAcP levels were lower in the combo compared to vehicle group, but not the other groups. No significant difference in Ki67 staining was found among the groups; whereas, cleaved caspase‐3 staining was lowest in the Combo group and highest in the BLX group. The DOC and combo groups had more CD34+ microvessels than the control and BLX groups. There was no difference between the treatment groups for IL‐2, but the combo group had increased levels of IFNγ compared to the DOC group.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that a combination of BAL and DOC has greater antitumor activity in a model of PCa bone metastases than either drug alone. These data support further evaluation of this combination in metastatic PCa.
Absorption, metabolism and distribution of carbosulfan in maize plants (Zea maysL.)
Authors: Shi Lihong , Lang Hongbin , Shen Jiatao , Shen Fan , Song Jialu , Zhang Luqing , Fang Hua , Yu Yunlong
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The insecticide carbosulfan is usually applied as a soil treatment or seed‐coating agent, and so may be absorbed by crops and pose dietary risks. Understanding the uptake, metabolism and translocation of carbosulfan in crops is conducive to its safe application. In this study, we investigated the distribution of carbosulfan and its toxic metabolites in maize plants at both the tissue and subcellular levels, and explored the uptake and translocation mechanism of carbosulfan.

RESULTS

Carbosulfan was mainly taken up by maize roots via the apoplast pathway, was preferentially distributed in cell walls (51.2%–57.0%) and most (85.0%) accumulated in roots with only weak upward translocation. Carbofuran, the main metabolite of carbosulfan in maize plants, was primarily stored in roots. However, carbofuran could be upwardly translocated to shoots and leaves because of its greater distribution in root‐soluble components (24.4%–28.5%) compared with carbosulfan (9.7%–14.5%). This resulted from its greater solubility compared with its parent compound. The metabolite 3‐hydroxycarbofuran was found in shoots and leaves.

CONCLUSION

Carbosulfan could be passively absorbed by maize roots, mainly via the apoplastic pathway, and transformed into carbofuran and 3‐hydroxycarbofuran. Although carbosulfan mostly accumulated in roots, its toxic metabolites carbofuran and 3‐hydroxycarbofuran could be detected in shoots and leaves. This implies that there is a risk in the use of carbosulfan as a soil treatment or seed coating. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The UPHILL study: A nutrition and lifestyle intervention to improve quality of life for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Kwant Chermaine T. , de Man Frances , van der Horst Frans A. L. , Bogaard Harm J. , Vonk Noordegraaf Anton
Published: May 2023

The aim of the UPHILL study (a nutrition and lifestyle intervention in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension [PAH]: effect on quality of life [QoL]), was to determine the effect of innovative nutritional interventions on adjustments in nutritional intake and QoL. In this study a group of prevalent PAH patients at a single center in Amsterdam (the Netherlands) was informed about healthy nutrition using a newly designed video e‐learning. They were subsequently instructed to follow a healthy diet during dietary intervention. Nutritional intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire (HELIUS) and QoL by the short‐form (SF)‐36 questionnaire. Nutritional parameters were determined in blood samples. Seventeen patients stable under treatment, who had been diagnosed with PAH 7.0 [3.0−14.0] years before, started and completed the intervention (2 males, 15 females; 45.35 ± 13.57 years). Since all patients in the intervention group made behavioral changes in nutritional intake, during study and follow‐up, nutritional and lifestyle adaptations persisted. Despite the fact that patients had already high mean scores at baseline for both mental (74.10 [60.51−84.25]) and physical QoL (66.46 [50.21−73.84]), scores improved further during e‐learning. Furthermore, patients who realized most nutritional adaptations, had the best improvement in QoL. This pilot study showed that e‐learning modules on nutrition provide an unique opportunity to change nutritional intake in PAH patients and by that improve QoL.
Sustainable development goals in the European Union and its regions: Are we moving forward in economic, social, and environmental dimensions?
Authors: Gracia‐de‐Rentería Pilar , Ferrer‐Pérez Hugo , Drabik Dušan
Published: May 2023

We build a framework using Markov transition matrices to develop comparative analyses of the dynamics of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals across 20 EU Member States and three sustainability dimensions—economic, social, and environmental—over the period of 2011–2019. The results indicate that the European Union has significantly progressed in achieving sustainable development, and that this progress has been achieved in all dimensions of sustainability and all EU regions. Nevertheless, we have detected different dynamics of sustainability across some countries and dimensions. This can help policymakers identify where greater emphasis should be placed on putting global goals back on track.
Local government competition, environmental regulation, and green development in China: Empirical analysis based on regional heterogeneity and path mechanisms
Authors: Yang Liu , Yu Zhiqian , Zhu Ning , Wu Xueli , Jin Yao
Published: May 2023

Using China's interprovincial panel data from 2007 to 2019, this paper empirically investigates the relationship between environmental regulation and green development efficiency (GDE) by examining the local governments competition behavior. The main instruments of local government competition, involving taxation, government spending and attracting investment, are considered as well as the institutional context. Following the “performance‐output‐performance” to clarify the role of local government competition and environmental regulation on GDE, it is found that fiscal spending competition increases GDE, while tax and capital attraction competition play the opposite role; performance promoted inter‐governmental competition makes local governments' strategic choices between economic catch‐up and environmental protection volatile, and this volatility brings about fluctuations and losses in GDE. The study by regions finds that government competition and environmental regulation have a greater impact on GDE in the eastern and developed regions, while the impact on other regions is relatively small. Further, the mechanism setting and institutional improvement of environmental governance achieved significant results after 2013, but the function of local government competition mechanisms in improving environmental quality has not yet emerged in China. The findings based on the heterogeneity of regional economic development and path mechanisms provide a reference for social planners to carry out top‐level design in taxation, fiscal spending, and investment attraction, as well as to formulate differentiated regional environmental regulation policies.