bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for self‐reported high symptom cluster burdens in patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy in China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Huang Qingmei , Zong Xuqian , Yuan Changrong , Shang Meimei , Yan Rong , Zheng Yeping , Niu Meie , Yang Yang , Wu Fulei
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Further exploration is needed to recognize symptom clusters and categorize subgroups with distinct cluster patterns and associated risks, focusing on symptoms that are highly self‐reported by patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. This study aimed to identify subgroups and risk factors for self‐reported high symptom cluster burden among patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy.

Methods

A total of 647 participants who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study, with data collected on demographics, disease information, self‐reported symptoms, and psychosocial factors. Latent class analysis was utilized to identify the subgroup, while logistic regression was used to pinpoint predictive risk factors.

Results

Latent class analysis revealed three subgroups: the “high burden of all symptoms group” (n = 107, 16.54%), the “high burden of psychological symptoms group” (n = 103, 15.92%), and the “low burden of all symptoms group” (n = 437, 67.54%). Patients in the high burden of all symptom group and high burden of psychological symptom group exhibited significantly worse function outcomes (p < 0.001). Predictive risk factors for the “high burden of all symptom group” included older age, lower self‐efficacy, worse body image, and a higher financial burden. Similarly, patients with high burden of psychological symptom were more likely to have low self‐efficacy, poor body image, and a high financial burden.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated the importance of giving more attention to patients with breast cancer who are at risk of developing into membership of high symptom cluster burden group.
Modified Hongteng Baijiang decoction enema improves sequelae of pelvic inflammatory disease by regulating the LIF/JAK2/STAT3 pathway and gut microbiota
Authors: Ji Xiaoli , Hu Quan , Yang Chengcheng , Huang Li , Huang Yefang , Deng Linwen , Song Xiaoqing , Zhang Yongqing , Wang Yan
Published: June 2024

Objective

The sequelae of pelvic inflammatory disease (SPID) are major causes of secondary infertility. Modified Hongteng Baijiang decoction (MHTBD) has produced positive results in the treatment of patients with chronic pelvic inflammatory disease; however, its role in SPID remains elusive. Therefore, this study clarified the role of MHTBD in SPID pathogenesis.

Methods

The main components in MHTBD were analyzed by using liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (LC/MS). An SPID rat model was established, and the rats were treated with different doses of MHTBD (0.504 g of raw drug/kg, 1.008 g of raw drug/kg, and 2.016 g of raw drug/kg). Endometrial pinopodes were observed via scanning electron microscopy, endometrial thickness and inflammatory cell infiltration were assessed via HE staining, and the expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), integrin β3 (ITGB3), and CD31 in the endometrium was detected by using immunohistochemistry. Western blot analysis was used to detect the protein expression of LIF, JAK2, p‐JAK2, STAT3, and p‐STAT3 in the endometrium. Moreover, the changes in the gut microbiota were analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results

MHTBD improved endometrial receptivity, attenuated endometrial pathologic damage, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, decreased ER and PR expression in the endometrium, and promoted the expression of LIF, p‐JAK2, and p‐STAT3 in the endometrium (p < .05) in SPID rats. Additionally, MHTBD treatment affected the composition of the gut microbiota in SPID rats. Furthermore, MHTBD attenuated endometrial receptivity and pathological damage in SPID rats by promoting the LIF/JAK2/STAT3 pathway.

Conclusion

MHTBD attenuates SPID in rats by promoting the LIF/JAK2/STAT3 pathway and improving the composition of the gut microbiota. MHTBD may be a valuable drug for SPID therapy.
How does factor market distortion affect green innovation? Evidence from China's sustainable development demonstration belt
Authors: Tan Feifei , Sun Chenyu
Published: June 2024

Green innovation meets the simultaneous demands of green and innovation‐driven development models when it is deemed as a key to realizing a green economic transition. However, factor market distortion impedes China's green development through factor mobility and resource allocation. Under such circumstances, we detect whether and how factor market distortion affects green innovation from various perspectives in the case study of China's Sustainable Development Demonstration Belt. The findings demonstrate that the distortion has a pronounced inhibiting effect on the green innovation growth in the study area. For the eastern and more‐developed cities, factor market distortion considerably inhibits green innovation improvement, while the impact is less pronounced in the western (or central) and less developed cities. Furthermore, the factor market distortion negatively affects green innovation through some effective paths, like energy efficiency and environmental regulation. From a spatial perspective, the green innovation's spillover effect could be reduced by both the distortions of the labor market and capital market. Thus, this study would provide strong theoretical support for enhancing the factor market system and improving the multiregional green innovation power in China, as well as scientific suggestions on transitioning to China's sustainable development.
Developing tyrosine phosphoproteome libraries and dual quantification using a hybrid DIA approach
Authors: Chang Chiao‐Chun , Tai Irene‐Ya , Chan Shen‐Shian , Lin Yu‐Hsuan , Chen Yu‐Ju , Chen Yi‐Ju
Published: June 2024

Protein tyrosine phosphorylation plays a critical role in initiating upstream cellular signaling transduction. However, the challenge in biological samples is the variability in relative concentrations (0.1%) of site‐specific tyrosine phosphorylation on proteins. To navigate these fluctuations and accurately quantify the absolute levels of tyrosine phosphosites among different samples, we reported a hybrid data‐independent acquisition‐parallel reaction monitoring (DIA‐PRM) MS technique for the robust identification and quantification of the phosphoproteome, the establishment of a comprehensive library of tyrosine phosphosites, and the specific assessment of changes in tyrosine phosphorylation. In our model study on non‐small cell lung cancer cells, our PRM strategy accomplished by a spiked‐in synthetic heavy phosphopeptide demonstrated reliable targeted quantification of the pY1197 on EGFR, revealing levels of 2.5, 4.9, and 5.3 fmol in pervanadate (PV)‐treated cells at 0, 15, and 30 min, respectively. Additionally, DIA‐extensive phosphoproteomic analysis provided 2765 tyrosine phosphosites within 14,961 global phosphosites corresponding to 1536 phosphoproteins, contributing to the phospho‐library establishment and relative quantification of phosphorylation level, especially in the PV‐treated time‐dependent increase of ErbB signaling pathway. This hybrid DIA‐PRM approach will advance the application of precise measurement of changes in multiple phosphotyrosine residues and enhance our understanding of phosphoproteomic dynamics in drug‐resistant cascades.
Performance of iron – doped activated carbon synthesised from cocoa husk as a cathode catalyst in microbial fuel cell powered Fenton process
Authors: John Juliana , Ajit Karnapa , Krishnan Haribabu , Kizhakkethil Youseph Ahammed Sherief
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Bio‐electro‐Fenton (BEF) systems, specifically microbial fuel cell (MFC) driven electro‐Fenton (EF) systems, have gained significant attention in wastewater treatment in recent years. The role of the cathode catalyst in BEF is crucial, as it undergoes O2 reduction via a 2e− oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) to produce H2O2. In this study, we have harnessed the abundant lignocellulosic composition of cocoa pod husk (CPH) to prepare a novel iron‐doped heterogeneous Fenton catalyst for the BEF system. Cocoa is typically grown for its wet beans, which constitute only one third of cocoa fruit by weight, while CPH makes up about two‐thirds of the weight and is often discarded as by‐product or waste. As a result, approximately 10 million tons of CPH are produced globally each year, highlighting the potential for transforming it into a value‐added product. To date, CPH has been utilised as a natural fertiliser, soil amendment, biomass fuel, poultry and livestock feed ingredient, and more.

RESULTS

The presence of mesoporous structure, iron content, oxygen containing functional groups, and prominent reduction peaks in cyclic voltammetry validated the Fe‐doped cocoa husk biochar's (Fe‐CHB) potential to act as an ORR catalyst. The BEF system achieved an open circuit voltage, current, and power densities of 0.697 V, 0.15 A/m2, and 0.040 W/m2, respectively, at an optimum resistance of 350 Ω. Optimisation of the process parameters using RSM and ANN predicted maximum dye removal efficiencies of 93.34% and 92.45%, respectively, at dye and substrate concentrations of 10 mg/L and 1 g/L. These predictions closely aligned with the experimental findings of 92.5%.

CONCLUSION

The synthesised catalyst provided large surface area, electrical conductivity, superior ORR catalytic efficiencies, and ample sites for H2O2 activation. Hence, Fe‐CHB can serve as a highly effective electrocatalyst in BEF systems. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The amount of femorotibial alignment correction through total knee arthroplasty may affect postoperative hindfoot alignment
Authors: Nakayama Tsutomu , Tsukada Sachiyuki , Kagami Yuya , Numajiri Shingo , Kurosaka Kenji , Nishino Masahiro , Hirasawa Naoyuki
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study was performed to investigate the relationship between the amount of femorotibial alignment correction and the amount of improvement of hindfoot alignment in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

A total of 159 knees undergoing TKA in 120 patients were assessed preoperatively and at 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months postoperatively. Standing hindfoot alignment was evaluated using the leg‐heel angle (LHA). The amount of change in hindfoot alignment was compared between patients with severe varus knee (Group 1) and those with moderate varus, neutral or valgus knee (Group 2).

Results

The mean values of pre‐ and postoperative hip‐knee‐ankle (HKA) angle were −14 ± 4° and −1 ± 3° in Group 1 and −7 ± 5° and −1 ± 3° in Group 2, respectively. The differences between pre‐ and postoperative LHA were significantly larger in Group 1 than in Group 2 at 2 weeks, 1 month and 3 months postoperatively (p = 0.006, 0.001 and 0.03, respectively). At 6 months postoperatively, no differences were observed between the two groups (p = 0.31).

Conclusion

The amount of change in hindfoot alignment was larger in Group 1 than in Group 2 at 2 weeks, 1 month and 3 months after TKA, but there was no significant difference between the two groups at 6 months after TKA.

Level of Evidence

Prognostic Level II.
Combination of reduced post‐transplant cyclophosphamide and early tacrolimus initiation increases the incidence of chronic graft‐versus‐host disease in human leukocyte antigen‐haploidentical peripheral blood stem‐cell transplantation
Authors: Terao Toshiki , Kondo Takumi , Nakamura Makoto , Takasuka Hiroki , Fujiwara Hideaki , Asada Noboru , Ennishi Daisuke , Nishimori Hisakazu , Fujii Keiko , Fujii Nobuharu , Maeda Yoshinobu , Matsuoka Ken‐ichi
Published: June 2024

We evaluated the clinical impacts of the concurrent modification of post‐transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) dose and tacrolimus (Tac)‐initiation timing in 61 patients with human leukocyte antigen‐haploidentical transplantation. Reduced‐dose PTCy (80 mg/kg) was associated with a higher incidence of moderate‐to‐severe chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) than standard‐dose PTCy (100 mg/kg) (35.0% vs. 26.6%, p = 0.053). Notably, early‐initiation Tac (day ‐1) increased moderate‐to‐severe chronic GVHD than standard‐initiation Tac (day 5) in the reduced‐dose PTCy group (p = 0.032), whereas Tac‐initiation timing did not impact chronic GVHD in the standard‐dose PTCy group. These data indicate that the combination of reduced‐dose PTCy and early‐initiation Tac can amplify chronic GVHD.
The dynamics of overlapping borrowing in the microcredit sector of Bangladesh
Authors: Osmani Siddiqur Rahman , Khalily Md Abdul Baqui , Hasan Mehadi
Published: June 2024

Overlapping borrowing – i.e., the practice of taking new loans before old loans have been fully repaid – has become an important phenomenon in the microcredit sector in many developing countries, including Bangladesh. This paper examines the rationale for overlapping and investigates its short‐term and long‐term consequences by using a panel data set that is representative of Bangladesh as a whole. The study finds that it is useful to distinguish between two broad groups of overlapping borrowers who differ in terms of both the rationale of overlapping and its consequences. The first group – consisting of more than half of all overlapping borrowers – uses it as a promotional strategy, to improve their economic conditions without incurring a sharp discrete jump in debt burden. The other group uses it as a coping strategy, to deal with contingencies that compel them to take loans of a non‐productive nature, again by avoiding a sharp discrete jump in the debt burden. Econometric analysis, allowing for the possibility of endogeneity bias, shows that the first group is able to achieve stronger financial viability in the long run in comparison with non‐overlapping microcredit borrowers. The second group, in contrast, does not enjoy any significant improvement in their living conditions, but they are able to stave off any decline that otherwise might have befallen them in the face of shocks. Thus, both groups succeed in their respective goals, which are promotion for the first group and protection for the second. Microcredit has always had this duality of promotion and protection; overlapping borrowing serves to strengthen these functions of microcredit.
Comparing immobilisation devices in gynaecological external beam radiotherapy: improving inter‐fraction reproducibility of pelvic tilt
Authors: Prasad Shimon , Bell Linda J. , Zwan Benjamin , Ko Florence , Blackwell Tayla , Connell Kevin , Stanton Cameron , Shepherd Meegan , Atyeo John , Stevens Mark , Morgia Marita
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The aim was to determine which immobilisation device improved inter‐fraction reproducibly of pelvic tilt and required the least pre‐treatment setup and planning interventions.

Methods

Sixteen patients were retrospectively reviewed, eight immobilised using the BodyFIX system (BodyFIX®, Elekta, Stockholm, Sweden) and eight using the Butterfly Board (BB) (Bionix Radiation Therapy, Toledo, OH, USA). The daily pre‐treatment images were reviewed to assess setup variations between each patient and groups for pelvic tilt, pubic symphysis, sacral promontory and the fifth lumbar spine (L5).

Results

Compared with the planning CT, pelvic tilt for most patients was within ±2° using the BodyFIX and ± 4° for the BB. The Butterfly Board had a slightly higher variance both for patient‐to‐patient (standard deviation of the systematic error) and day‐to‐day error (standard deviation of the random error). Variance in position between individual patients and the two stabilisation devices were minimal in the anterior–posterior (AP) and superior–inferior (SI) direction for the pubic symphysis, sacral promontory and L5 spine. Re‐imaged fractions due to pelvic tilt reduced by about half when BodyFIX was used (39.1% BB, 19.4% BodyFIX). One patient treated with the BB required a re‐scan for pelvic tilt. Three patients required a re‐scan for body contour variations (two using BodyFIX and one with the BB).

Conclusions

BodyFIX resulted in a more accurate inter‐fraction setup and efficient treatment and is used as the standard stabilisation for gynaecological patients at our centre. It reduced the pelvic tilt variance and reduced the need for re‐imaging pre‐treatment by half.
Analysis of the prevalence and clinical features of respiratory syncytial virus infection in a pediatric hospital in Zhejiang Province from 2019 to 2023
Authors: Chen Danlei , Ru Xuanwen , Chen Simiao , Shao Qingyi , Ye Qing
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in children in Zhejiang from 2019 to 2023. Data from pediatric patients who visited the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine for RSV infection between 2019 and 2023 were analyzed. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected for RSV antigen detection, and relevant patient information was collected. Factors such as age were analyzed. A total of 673 094 specimens were included from 2019 to 2023, with a rate of positive specimens of 4.74% (31 929/673 094). The highest rate of positive specimens of 10.82%, was recorded in 2021, while the remaining years had a rate of approximately 3%−5%. In terms of seasonal prevalence characteristics, the rate of positive specimens in 2019, 2020, and 2022 peaked in the winter months at approximately 8% and decreased in the summer months, where the rate of positive specimens remained at approximately 0.5%. In contrast, summer is the peak period for RSV incidence in 2021 and 2023, with the rate of positive specimens being as high as 9%−12%. Based on the prevalence characteristics of gender and age, this study found that the detection rate of positive specimens was higher in boys than in girls in 2019−2023. In 2019−2022, among the different age groups, the highest rate of positive specimens was found in children aged 0 to <6 months, and it decreased with age. In 2023, the rate of positive specimens was above 8% in the 0 to <6 months, 6 to <12 months, and 1−2 years age groups, with the highest rate of positive specimens in the 1−2 years age group, and a gradual decrease in the rate of positive specimens with age for children over 3 years of age. Between 2019 and 2023, the epidemiological pattern of RSV changed. A summer peak was observed in 2021 and 2023.
Fabrication of soy protein–polyphenol covalent complex nanoparticles with improved wettability to stabilize high‐oil‐phase curcumin emulsions
Authors: Xu Jingjing , Ji Fuyun , Luo Shuizhong , Jiang Shaotong , Yu Zhenyu , Ye Aiqian , Zheng Zhi
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have shown that the wettability of protein‐based emulsifiers is critical for emulsion stability. However, few studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of varying epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) concentrations on the wettability of protein‐based emulsifiers. Additionally, limited studies have examined the effectiveness of soy protein–EGCG covalent complex nanoparticles with improved wettability as emulsifiers for stabilizing high‐oil‐phase (≥ 30%) curcumin emulsions.

RESULTS

Soy protein isolate (SPI)–EGCG complex nanoparticles (SPIEn) with improved wettability were fabricated to stabilize high‐oil‐phase curcumin emulsions. The results showed that EGCG forms covalent bonds with SPI, which changes its secondary structure, enhances its surface charge, and improves its wettability. Moreover, SPIEn with 2.0 g L −1 EGCG (SPIEn‐2.0) exhibited a better three‐phase contact angle (56.8 ± 0.3o) and zeta potential (−27 mV) than SPI. SPIEn‐2.0 also facilitated the development of curcumin emulsion gels at an oil volume fraction of 0.5. Specifically, the enhanced network between droplets as a result of the packing effects and SPIEn‐2.0 with inherent antioxidant function was more effective at inhibiting curcumin degradation during long‐term storage and ultraviolet light exposure.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study indicate that SPIEn with 2.0 g L −1 EGCG (SPIEn‐2.0) comprises the optimum conditions for fabricating emulsifiers with improved wettability. Additionally, SPIEn‐0.2 can improve the physicochemical stability of high‐oil‐phase curcumin emulsions, suggesting a novel strategy to design and fabricate high‐oil‐phase emulsion for encapsulating bioactive compounds. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The impact of the California state lockdown during the COVID‐19 pandemic on management of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Oviedo Parisa , Burns Shohei , Chen Wen‐Pin , Mandl Hanna K. , Rosso Claudia , Radgoudarzi Niloofar , Crosetti Anna , Zamora Steven , Perry Lauren M. , Bold Richard J. , Labora Amanda N. , Donahue Timothy R. , Maker Ajay , Valerin Jennifer B. , Zell Jason A. , White Rebekah R.
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives

The SARS‐COVID‐19 pandemic significantly limited healthcare access. We sought to evaluate whether California's lockdown in March 2020 affected staging and time to treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We hypothesized that patients diagnosed after the lockdown would have longer time to treatment and higher stage at presentation.

Methods

We retrospectively identified and categorized 1294 patients presenting to five University of California healthcare systems with a new diagnosis of PDAC into “pre‐lockdown” and “post‐lockdown” groups based on timing of pathologic diagnosis.

Results

In the 12 months pre‐lockdown, 835 patients were diagnosed with PDAC, and 459 patients in the 6 months post‐lockdown. Demographics, staging, and treatment type were similar between eras. There was a decreased male:female ratio post‐ versus pre‐lockdown (0.97 vs. 1.25; p = 0.03). Time from symptom onset to first treatment was significantly increased among females post‐lockdown (p = 0.001). However, overall time from diagnosis to first treatment was shorter in the post‐lockdown era (median 23 vs. 26 days, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 lockdown did not significantly delay initial presentation, diagnosis, or treatment of newly diagnosed PDAC patients. Time from diagnosis to first treatment was shorter post‐lockdown. Reduced healthcare utilization for minor complaints and increased telehealth utilization may have contributed.
A Hybrid Lens to Realize Electrical Real‐Time Super‐Resolution Imaging
Authors: Chen Jin , Huang Shao Xin , Chan Ka Fai , Wu Geng‐Bo , Chan Chi Hou
Published: June 2024

Real‐time dynamic super‐resolution focusing technology is crucial for various imaging applications. However, the diffraction limit significantly impedes the achievement of real‐time dynamic super‐resolution imaging. Prior studies within this domain, such as super‐resolution fluorescence imaging and structured illumination microscopy, heavily rely on fluorescent labels and intricate algorithms. This article proposes a novel approach to achieving real‐time dynamic super‐resolution imaging at microwave frequency by integrating the Mikaelian lens derived from conformal transformation optics with the space‐time‐coding metasurface antenna. Real‐time dynamic super‐resolution focusing with a resolution ranging from 0.3λ to 0.4λ is demonstrated at the periphery of the Mikaelian lens with a numerical aperture (NA) of 0.54. The proposed hybrid lens exhibits the capacity to discern features separated by about one‐third of a wavelength with high precision. The work offers a universal solution for achieving dynamic real‐time super‐resolution imaging electrically, which can be extended to terahertz waves, visible light, and other wave fields, such as acoustic and flexural waves.
The Complete Inpatient Record Using Comprehensive Electronic Data (CIRCE) project: A team‐based approach to clinically validated, research‐ready electronic health record data
Authors: Schneider Andrea L. C. , Ginestra Jennifer C. , Kerlin Meeta Prasad , Shashaty Michael G. S. , Miano Todd A. , Herman Daniel S. , Mitchell Oscar J. L. , Bennett Rachel , Moffett Alexander T. , Chandler John , Kalanuria Atul , Faraji Zahra , Bishop Nicholas S. , Schmid Benjamin , Chen Angela T. , Bowles Kathryn H. , Joseph Thomas , Kohn Rachel , Kelz Rachel R. , Anesi George L. , Kumar Monisha , Friedman Ari B. , Vail Emily , Meyer Nuala J. , Himes Blanca E. , Weissman Gary E.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The rapid adoption of electronic health record (EHR) systems has resulted in extensive archives of data relevant to clinical research, hospital operations, and the development of learning health systems. However, EHR data are not frequently available, cleaned, standardized, validated, and ready for use by stakeholders. We describe an in‐progress effort to overcome these challenges with cooperative, systematic data extraction and validation.

Methods

A multi‐disciplinary team of investigators collaborated to create the Complete Inpatient Record Using Comprehensive Electronic Data (CIRCE) Project dataset, which captures EHR data from six hospitals within the University of Pennsylvania Health System. Analysts and clinical researchers jointly iteratively reviewed SQL queries and their output to validate desired data elements. Data from patients aged ≥18 years with at least one encounter at an acute care hospital or hospice occurring since 7/1/2017 were included. The CIRCE Project includes three layers: (1) raw data comprised of direct SQL query output, (2) cleaned data with errors removed, and (3) transformed data with standardized implementations of commonly used case definitions and clinical scores.

Results

Between July 1, 2017 and December 31, 2023, the dataset captured 1 629 920 encounters from 740 035 patients. Most encounters were emergency department only visits (n = 965 834, 59.3%), followed by inpatient admissions without an intensive care unit admission (n = 518 367, 23.7%). The median age was 46.9 years (25th–75th percentiles = 31.1–64.7) at the time of the first encounter. Most patients were female (n = 418 303, 56.5%), a significant proportion were of non‐White race (n = 272 018, 36.8%), and 54 625 (7.4%) were of Hispanic/Latino ethnicity.

Conclusions

The CIRCE Project represents a novel cooperative research model to capture clinically validated EHR data from a large diverse academic health system in the greater Philadelphia region and is designed to facilitate collaboration and data sharing to support learning health system activities. Ultimately, these data will be de‐identified and converted to a publicly available resource.
Estrogen influences the transzonal projection assembly of cumulus‐oocyte complexes through G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor during goat follicle development
Authors: Xu Rui , Wen Dongxu , Yin Lu , Tang Yaju , Lu Sihai , Gao Yan , Pan Meng‐Hao , Han Bin , Ma Baohua
Published: June 2024

Estrogen is an important hormone that plays a role in regulating follicle development and oocyte maturation. Transzonal projections (TZPs) act as communication bridges between follicle somatic cells and oocytes, and their dynamic changes are critical for oocyte development and maturation. However, the roles and mechanisms of estrogen in regulating TZPs during follicular development are not yet understood. We found that the proportion of oocytes spontaneously resuming meiosis increases as the follicle grows, which is accompanied by rising estrogen levels in follicles and decreasing TZPs in cumulus‐oocyte complex. To further explore the effect of elevated estrogen levels on TZP assembly, additional estrogen was added to the culture system. The increased estrogen level significantly decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of TZP assembly‐related genes. Subsequent research revealed that TZP regulation by estrogen was mediated by the membrane receptor GPER and downstream ERK1/2 signaling pathway. In summary, our study suggests that estrogen may regulate goat oocyte meiosis arrest by decreasing TZP numbers via estrogen‐mediated GPER activation during follicle development.
Local reduced subspaces of subchannel‐inspired subdomains
Authors: Ruan Shenhui , Yanez Jorge , Class Andreas G.
Published: June 2024

In this article, we study an update of the traditional subchannel approximation utilizing local reduced order bases. Through employing the symmetries and periodicity of a 7‐pin bundle, the global domain is decomposed into numerous repeating subdomains following several dividing strategies. We locally study the reduced basis generated by proper orthogonal decomposition. We analyze the similarities, assessing the truncation error and the distance between the linear subspaces spanned by the reduced bases. We focus on the first stage of building a reduced order model, the generation of the reduced subspace, which is usually not regarded in detail in our application problem. Our assessment related to flow blockage in liquid metal‐cooled nuclear reactors, a postulated high‐risk accident that results in potential fuel damage.
How can we approach preoperative frailty and related factors in patients with cancer? A scoping review
Authors: Jeon Misun , Lee Sang Hwa , Jang Ji Yoon , Kim Sanghee
Published: June 2024

Aim

To identify factors related to preoperative frailty in patients with cancer and map the tools that measure frailty.

Design

A Scoping review.

Methods

This scoping review based on Arksey and O'Malley's framework. Articles from CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases published between January 2011 and April 2021. The searched keywords were concepts related to ‘cancer’, ‘frailty’ and ‘measurement’.

Results

While 728 records were initially identified, 24 studies were eventually selected. Research on frailty was actively conducted between 2020 and 2021. Factors related to preoperative frailty were age (22.9%), sex (11.4%), body mass index (11.4%) and physical status indicators (54.3%). The most common result of preoperative frailty was postoperative complications (35.0%). 24 instruments were used to measure frailty.

Implications for Patient Care

Selecting an appropriate preoperative frailty screening tool can help improve patient postoperative treatment outcomes.

Impact

There are many instruments for assessing preoperative frailty, each evaluating a multi‐dimensional feature. We identified the frailty screening tools used today, organized the factors that affect frailty, and explored the impact of frailty. Identifying and organizing frailty measurement tools will enable appropriate evaluation.

Reporting Method

PRISMA‐ScR.

Patient Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
The Prognostic Implications of Neutrophil‐to‐Lymphocyte Ratio in Olfactory Neuroblastoma
Authors: Mocharnuk Joseph , Daniels Kelly E. , Filimonov Andrey , North Lauren M. , Gardner Paul A. , Wang Eric W. , Snyderman Carl H.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare sinonasal malignancy with comparatively positive prognosis and survival, but with a range of biological behaviors that can be difficult to prognosticate with current means of risk stratification. Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been found across a diverse range of malignancies to be associated with poorer outcomes. This paper aims to elucidate the relationship of NLR with olfactory neuroblastoma to assess its prognostic value in this setting.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

A single tertiary care academic hospital.

Methods

The study cohort included all patients treated for initial presentation of olfactory neuroblastoma from 2004 to 2020. NLR was calculated from preoperative labs, and each patient was evaluated for Kadish staging, Hyams grade, intraoperative positive margin, use of adjuvant therapy, posttreatment recurrence, and death. All statistical analysis was conducted using R and relationship between NLR and variables was assessed via binomial logistic regression.

Results

Forty‐four patients were included, 24 were male. Average age 52.8, average length of follow‐up was 9.6 years. Patients were grouped by low (Kadish A/B) and advanced (Kadish C/D) stage, n = 23 and n = 21, respectively, and low (Hyams I/II) and high (Hyams III/IV) risk, n = 15 and n = 11, respectively. Advanced Kadish stage was associated with elevated NLR, odds ratio 5.69 [2.30, 20.7], P = .001. No other variables were associated with elevated NLR including Hyams grade, margin status, recurrence, and mortality.

Conclusion

Higher Kadish grade is associated with elevated NLR which may provide novel prognostic value to current risk‐stratifying systems.
SNAP: Supportive non‐invasive ventilation for acute chest syndrome prevention for hospitalized children with sickle cell disease: Perspectives of patients, parents, and the healthcare team
Authors: Cohen Robyn T. , Burrowes Shana A. B. , Williams Christopher J. , Neri Caitlin M. , Klings Elizabeth S. , Jones Kayla C. , Walkey Allan J. , Drainoni Mari‐Lynn
Published: June 2024

Rationale

Acute chest syndrome (ACS) often develops during hospitalizations for sickle cell disease (SCD) vaso‐occlusive episodes and may be triggered by a combination of chest wall splinting, opioid use, hypoventilation, and atelectasis. In 2017, Boston Medical Center's general pediatric inpatient unit instituted the novel use of bi‐level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) as “supportive non‐invasive ventilation for ACS prevention” (SNAP) to prevent ACS and respiratory decompensation.

Objective

The goals of this qualitative study were to identify perceived benefits, harms, facilitators, and barriers to use of SNAP.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured key informant interviews at three sites with different levels of SNAP implementation (Site 1: extensive implementation; Site 2: limited implementation; Site 3: not yet implemented) regarding experiences with and/or perceptions of SNAP. Interviews and coding were guided by the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARiHS) framework.

Results

Thirty‐four participants (physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, child life specialists, psychologists, youth with SCD, and parents) completed interviews. Major themes included: (i) participants perceive BiPAP as effective at preventing ACS, and for those with medically stable ACS, for preventing respiratory decompensation. (ii) BiPAP use is appropriate on the general pediatric inpatient unit for medically stable patients with SCD. (iii) Improving the patient experience is the most important factor to optimize acceptance of BiPAP by patients and families.

Conclusion/future directions

SNAP is perceived as effective and appropriate for hospitalized pediatric patients with SCD. Improving the patient experience is the biggest challenge. These data will inform a future protocol for a multicenter hybrid effectiveness/implementation trial of SNAP.
Psychological impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on infertile patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Yu , Su Yiyao , Li Xiaoshan
Published: June 2024

The present study aimed to examine the psychological impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on infertile patients. We adopted a comparison design and searched articles published from 1 September 2016 to 31 December 2019 as the control group, while articles published from 1 January 2020 to 31 April 2023 were treated as the pandemic group. Specifically, Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, PsycArticle, CNKI and PsycINFO were searched to identify potential eligible records. Risk of bias was assessed, and random‐effects meta‐analyses were conducted to estimate the prevalence of specific mental health problems. Forty studies with a total of 19,480 participants were included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence of anxiety in the pandemic group was significantly higher than that in the control group. The depression and stress prevalence in the pandemic group was higher than that in the control group, yet did not reach statistical significance. A subgroup analysis revealed region differences with developed countries exhibiting higher rates of anxiety and depression in the pandemic group, but the result was the opposite in the control group. Physiological factors, psychological factors and social factors correlated with infertile patients' mental health were identified. The COVID‐19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on infertile patients' mental health, emphasizing the importance of ways to mitigate the risks during the pandemic.
Validation and determining an optimal cut‐off score of the Infant Behavior Checklist for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Takeda Toshinobu , Osada Hirokazu , Tsuji Yui , Kurita Hiroshi
Published: June 2024

Aim

Given the escalating prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the persistent paucity of child psychiatrists in Japan, and the need to prepare for unforeseen situations, such as the COVID‐19 pandemic, it is essential to establish a reliable screening tool. This study aims to validate the Infant Behavior Checklist (IBC) developed by Japanese experts and determine its appropriate cut‐off score.

Methods

A total of 354 clinic‐referred children, along with their caregivers, participated in this research. Clinical records, including diagnoses established through the sub‐structured diagnostic interviews, and the IBC assessments, were subjected to rigorous statistical analysis.

Results

Among the 24 items, six failed to reach significance to differentiate ASD from non‐ASD cases. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the IBC was calculated at 0.77. The IBC total score for ASD cases was significantly higher than that of non‐ASD cases. With the chosen cut‐off score, the IBC demonstrated an area under the ROC curve of 0.803, along with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 8.03, 0.79, 0.69, 0.34, and 0.94, respectively.

Conclusion

The IBC exhibits satisfactory internal consistency and content and discriminant validity. The high sensitivity and other associated indices for the optimal cut‐off score of the IBC affirm its validity as a screening instrument for ASD. Nevertheless, further investigations are warranted to ascertain the clinical utility of the IBC.
Extrusion‐printing additive manufacturing of composite solid propellant by fast curing isocyanated‐HTPB and HTPB blending‐extruded via a static mixer
Authors: Ren Liyuan , Jiang Licong , Chen Kang , Guo Qirui , Xiao Leqin , Zhou Weiliang
Published: June 2024

This article studied a novel method for extrusion‐printing additive manufacturing (AM) of composite solid propellant by fast curing isocyanated‐HTPB and HTPB, which were blended and extruded via a static mixer. The gel time and tack‐free time of isocyanated‐HTPB with HTPB or diamines were extensively studied to screen for the potential formulation of extrusion‐printing. Upon the results of computational fluid dynamics simulation on the mixing effect of the static mixer, the formulation with 7 min gel time and 2.5 h tack‐free time was selected for extrusion‐printing experiment. The shape retaining characteristic of the formulations with 72 wt %, 75 wt %, 80 wt %, and 85 wt % solid content was qualitatively studied by printing the points, fibers, fiber arrays, and multilayer samples under fixed printing parameters, such as the slurry flux, the nozzle moving speed, and air pressure etc. The results showed that the curing rate and solid content play an important role in the free standing property of the slurry printed. A 3D sample with a complex geometric shape, which has 15 layers,18.5 mm in height, and 20.1 mm in outer diameter, was successfully extrusion‐printed by fast curing the slurry with the formulation of 85 wt % solid content. Its tensile strength and elongation at break are 0.33 MPa and 39.9 %, respectively. SEM observation showed that the internal morphology of the sample printed is dense and uniform. The results demonstrated that extrusion‐printing AM by fast curing two components is a potential candidate AM method for composite solid propellants with high solid content.
Mutating the arginine residue within the FRNK motif of telosma mosaic virus (TelMV) HC‐Pro protein attenuates viral infection and confers effective protection against TelMV in passion fruit (Passiflora edulis)
Authors: Wang Linxi , Shi Wei , Aziz Asma , Wang Xiaoqing , Liu Haobin , Shen Wentao , Cui Hongguang , Dai Zhaoji
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Telosma mosaic virus (TelMV, Potyvirus, Potyviridae) is an emerging viral pathogen that threatens passion fruit plantations worldwide. However, an efficient strategy for controlling such a virus is not yet available. Cross protection is a phenomenon in which pre‐infection of a plant with one mild strain prevents or delays subsequent infection by the same or closely related virus. HC‐Pro is the potyviral encoded multifunctional protein involved in several steps of viral infection, including multiplication, movement, transmission and RNA silencing suppression. In this study, we tested whether it is possible to generate attenuated viral strains capable of conferring protection against severe TelMV infection by manipulating the HC‐Pro gene.

RESULTS

By introducing point mutation into the conserved motif FRNK of HC‐Pro that is essential for RNA silencing suppression, we have successfully obtained three attenuated mutants of TelMV (R181K, R181D, and R181E, respectively). These attenuated TelMV mutants could systemically infect passion fruit plants without noticeable symptoms. Pre‐inoculation of one of these attenuated mutants confers efficient protection against subsequent infection by severe TelMV strain. Moreover, we demonstrated that the HC‐Pros harbored by the attenuated mutants exhibit reduced RNA silencing suppression activity in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves.

CONCLUSION

The attenuated TelMV mutants developed in this study that are suitable for cross protection offer a practical, powerful tool to fight against TelMV for sustainable passion fruit production. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Adjuvant use for the management of pesticide drift, leaching and runoff
Authors: Hewitt Andrew J
Published: June 2024

Adjuvants are included in many pesticide spray mixtures to enhance the performance of the applied chemical. Many adjuvants which modify the emulsion or extensional viscosity of the tank‐mixture have been found to offer benefits in drift management, primarily by eliminating or reducing the ‘Fine’ droplets included in the spray with diameters <100–200 μm that can move off‐target in unfavorable conditions during ground, airblast and aerial pesticide applications. Among wind tunnel and field studies conducted around the world, there is consensus that while some adjuvants are effective for drift management, the performance varies on a case‐by‐case basis, requiring verification for each adjuvant which could be achieved through a programme such as certification based on showing a reduction in Fine droplets and/or a reduction in airborne drift. These can be measured in wind tunnel studies according to international standards. This article provides a review of the current science in this subject area, from the approaches to data collection to a review of existing data and regulatory application for encouraging and rewarding the use of appropriate adjuvants that have been demonstrated to reduce airborne spray drift potential and therefore the size of no‐spray buffer zones appropriate to protect nontarget sensitive areas from drift exposure. Some adjuvants can offer the same reduction in drift as offered by hooded sprayer retrofits. A drift reduction programme based on adjuvant use could include testing candidate adjuvants for their effect on droplet size and reduction in Fine droplets when sprayed through reference nozzles and compared against sprays without the adjuvant. Testing could also be based alternatively on measurements of drift potential on collectors such as monofilament line in wind tunnel or field studies. Once shown to be effective in reducing ‘Fines’ or spray drift, adjuvants could be certified and then referenced on pesticide labels and/or regulatory or best management practice schemes to encourage their use and offer reductions in use restrictions or no‐spray buffer zone sizes based on drift management. Studies have shown that some adjuvants can reduce pesticide leaching into soils and contamination of groundwater, as well as runoff of active ingredients from plants into the environment. Performance depends on the adjuvant type, the pesticide with which it is used, the soil or plant type, the timing and mass of water input from rainfall and climatic factors. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
A case of pulmonary transthyretin amyloidosis with concurrent mycobacterial tuberculosis infection
Authors: Siu Hanson , Mond Ari , Shaw James , Chin Ruth , Hosking Patrick , Wimaleswaran Hari
Published: June 2024

Amyloidosis is a pathological deposition disease that causes a spectrum of organ dysfunction. Pulmonary involvement is generally associated with immunoglobulin light chain type (AL) amyloid. Transthyretin (ATTR) amyloid build up in the lung is thought to be a senile disease observed usually as a finding at autopsy. We describe a case of pulmonary ATTR amyloidosis with concurrent mycobacterial tuberculosis infection.
Memory event‐triggered mechanism based switching‐like control for CPSs under DoS attack
Authors: Geng Qing , Li Jinling , Li Li
Published: June 2024

In this article, a memory event‐triggered mechanism (METM) based switching‐like control method is designed for a cyber‐physical system (CPS), maintain control performance and improve the communication efficiency under denial of service (DoS) attack. In order to obtain better control effect at small sampling periods, a sampler contains the explicit sampling period is designed by using delta operator approach. First of all, a METM based on an acknowledgement character (ACK) mechanism is proposed, which can reduce event triggered data calculations, increase the transmission instants at the crest or trough of the responses and reduce the negative impact of DoS attack. Next, a switching‐like control strategy for the delta operator system converted from the CPS is designed to prevent DoS attack resulting in open‐loop unstable operation of the system. Further, a switching law is designed to maintain the concealment of the secure channel. Then, sufficient conditions are derived for the CPS in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, the effectiveness of the designed method is verified by a simulation example.
Word Learning Opportunities in Preschool Storybook Apps
Authors: Bruner Lori
Published: June 2024

In this study, I examined preschool storybook apps for the affordances they may provide for young children's vocabulary development. Specifically, I sought to understand (a) the degree to which storybook apps introduce new words, (b) the types of words children can learn, and (c) the degree to which digital enhancements align with new words in the story. To do so, I conducted a content analysis of 26,744 words in 70 best‐selling storybook apps in the United States. Results indicate that approximately 7.5% of words in preschool storybook apps might be considered new words for preschool children—which is comparable to the number of new words in preschool printed books. Furthermore, approximately 25% of new words in storybook apps are aligned with digital enhancements. These findings contribute new information about vocabulary in preschool storybook apps and the extent to which digital enhancements might support children's word learning on screen.