bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First case report of serous otitis media as a complication of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: Case report and literature review
Authors: Santistevan Lucia , Lonergan Devin , Eyvazzadeh Aimee D.
Published: August 2023

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) may be a severe complication of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation during assisted reproductive technology. During OHSS, fluid shifts from the intravascular space to the third‐space compartments as the result of an increase in capillary permeability. This can cause fluid accumulation in peritoneal as well as thoracic cavities. The patient presented with symptoms of severe OHSS (bilateral hydrothorax and pulmonary effusion), requiring bilateral ultrasound‐guided paracentesis and bilateral thoracentesis during her Emergency Room visits and hospitalization. Due to distant effects from the increased capillary permeability, the patient presented fluid in the middle ear, which led to the development of serous otitis media 12 days after egg retrieval. This was resolved 2–3 weeks later after being treated with antihistamines and antibiotics given by her Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor. OHSS risk may be reduced by continuous monitoring of patients undergoing ovulation induction, using an appropriate gonadotropin dosage, and using additional agents known to decrease its risk. If OHSS still occurs, symptomatic treatment and a multidisciplinary team of professionals may be needed to prevent fluid build‐up complications. In contrast to many published articles about OHSS and its complications, this is the first case report of a patient presenting serous otitis media as a complication of severe OHSS.
Dark side ofIT: A misleading expression?
Authors: Masiero Silvia
Published: August 2023

Research on the “dark side” of information technology (IT) is becoming diffused in the information systems (IS) field. Focused on the negative consequences of IT on individuals, organizations and the society, such a literature has, however, neglected the contribution of ICT4D research to the debate. This paper draws on two streams of research—respectively, on digital identity systems for social protection and biometric humanitarianism—to highlight the limits of the notion of a “dark side” of IT. Using a design justice lens, it illuminates how adverse features can be purposefully designed into technology, directly producing the detrimental outcomes that cause harm on its users. Through this perspective, the notion of a “dark side” of IT is contrasted with that of a “dark matter” pointing to the substantial, rather than accidental, nature of harm generated through IT. Implications are drawn for IS research, highlighting how existing works from the ICT4D field support the “dark matter” thesis.
The distinguishing index of graphs with infinite minimum degree
Authors: Stawiski Marcin , Wilson Trevor M.
Published: August 2023

The distinguishing index of a graph is the least number of colors necessary to obtain an edge coloring of that is preserved only by the trivial automorphism. We show that if is a connected ‐regular graph for some infinite cardinal then , proving a conjecture of Lehner, Pilśniak, and Stawiski. We also show that if is a graph with infinite minimum degree and at most vertices of degree for every infinite cardinal , then . In particular, if has infinite minimum degree and order at most .
セルトラリンの大量内服により急性薬剤性肺障害を生じた1例(Drug–induced lung injury caused by sertraline overdose: a case report)
Authors: 愛 栁内 , 縁 後藤 , 太郎 田中 , 喜己 北川
Published: August 2023

セルトラリンは選択的セロトニン再取り込み阻害薬の一つでうつ病の治療に用いられる。我々はセルトラリンの大量内服により急性薬剤性肺障害を生じた症例を経験した。セルトラリンの添付文書に肺障害の記載はなく，本邦での報告もない。症例は36歳の女性。既往はうつ病。自殺目的でセルトラリン100mgを100錠服用し搬送された。来院時，血圧 119/79mmHg，脈拍 96/分，呼吸数 22/分，SpO2 96%，Glasgow coma scale E3V4M6。検査上特異的な異常はなく，急性薬物中毒として入院した。第2病日に発熱，第5病日にSpO2低下を生じ，胸部単純CTで両側全肺野のすりガラス影を認めた。気管支肺胞洗浄液は血性で好中球優位であり肺胞出血を示唆した。膠原病肺を念頭にメチルプレドニゾロン（mPSL）60mg/日を開始したところ，一時的に呼吸状態が改善した。同時にセルトラリンによる薬剤性肺炎も疑いDLSTを提出したが，頻度の低さと中止に伴う離脱症候群などのリスクを考慮し，内服は継続した。第17病日に再び呼吸状態が悪化し，胸部CT上，びまん性肺胞傷害および縦隔気腫・気胸を認めた。DLSTが陽性と判明したため薬剤性肺障害と診断し，薬剤中止とmPSLパルスを施行したところ奏功し，退院に至った。稀だが重症な薬剤性肺障害の原因としてセルトラリンを念頭におくことは，早期診断・治療につながる。
早期に胸腔鏡下食道切除を行った腐食性食道炎による食道狭窄の1例(A case of the early thoracoscopic esophagectomy for esophageal stricture due to corrosive esophagitis)
Authors: 源 鈴木 , 勝伸 勅使河原 , 大輔 山本 , 早紀 坂本 , 昌士 五木田 , 茂正 田口 , 和也 清田
Published: August 2023

腐食性食道炎は時間の経過に伴って，食道と周囲組織の癒着が進行するため，手術を行う場合には操作が困難になると考えられる。我々は，早期に鏡視下切除を行った腐食性食道炎による食道狭窄の症例を経験したため報告する。症例は50歳の男性。自殺企図で濃度不明の硝酸25mLほど内服し，救急要請された。造影CTと上部消化管内視鏡検査（esophagogastroduodenoscopy: EGD）で，腐食性食道炎・胃炎の診断となり，経過観察の方針で入院とした。EGDのフォローアップで胸部食道に狭窄を認めた。第33病日には胸部下部食道の内腔は5mm以下となった。狭窄は進行性であり第35，40病日にバルーン拡張術を実施するも効果は一時的であった。また，嚥下障害も合併した。第44病日に胸腔鏡下胸部食道切除，頚部食道唾液瘻造設，腹腔鏡下胃瘻造設術を行った。食道周囲の剥離の際に癒着や瘢痕形成は認めず，容易に剥離を行うことができた。嚥下障害が改善したため，2期的再建として，第84病日に大弯側胃管を用いた食道再建（胸骨後経路）を行い，第134病日に独歩退院とした。早期に手術を行うことで比較的難易度が低い状態で，低侵襲な胸腔鏡下食道切除術を安全に行うことが可能であった。
Analysis of the Correlation and Prognostic Significance of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures in Breast Cancer: A Radiomics‐Clinical Integration Approach
Authors: Li Kezhen , Ji Juan , Li Simin , Yang Man , Che Yurou , Xu Zhu , Zhang Yiyao , Wang Mei , Fang Zengyi , Luo Liping , Wu Chuan , Lai Xin , Dong Juan , Zhang Xinlan , Zhao Na , Liu Yang , Wang Weidong
Published: August 2023

Background

Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) are potential prognostic indicators. Radiomics may help reduce unnecessary invasive operations.

Purpose

To analyze the association between TLSs and prognosis, and to establish a nomogram model to evaluate the expression of TLSs in breast cancer (BC) patients.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Two hundred forty‐two patients with localized primary BC (confirmed by surgery) were divided into BC + TLS group (N = 122) and BC − TLS group (N = 120).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T; Caipirinha‐Dixon‐TWIST‐volume interpolated breath‐hold sequence for dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI and inversion‐recovery turbo spin echo sequence for T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI).

Assessment

Three models for differentiating BC + TLS and BC − TLS were developed: 1) a clinical model, 2) a radiomics signature model, and 3) a combined clinical and radiomics (nomogram) model. The overall survival (OS), distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS), and disease‐free survival (DFS) were compared to evaluate the prognostic value of TLSs.

Statistical Tests

LASSO algorithm and ANOVA were used to select highly correlated features. Clinical relevant variables were identified by multivariable logistic regression. Model performance was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), and through decision curve analysis (DCA). The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate the survival rate.

Results

The radiomics signature model (training: AUC 0.766; test: AUC 0.749) and the nomogram model (training: AUC 0.820; test: AUC 0.749) showed better validation performance than the clinical model. DCA showed that the nomogram model had a higher net benefit than the other models. The median follow‐up time was 52 months. While there was no significant difference in 3‐year OS (P = 0.22) between BC + TLS and BC − TLS patients, there were significant differences in 3‐year DFS and 3‐year DMFS between the two groups.

Data Conclusion

The nomogram model performs well in distinguishing the presence or absence of TLS. BC + TLS patients had higher long‐term disease control rates and better prognoses than those without TLS.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Overcoming uncertainty: A framework to guide the implementation of Australian radiation therapy advanced practitioners
Authors: Matthews Kristie , Duchesne Gillian
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The implementation of radiation therapy advanced practice in Australia has not yet been broadly realised. With anticipated growing demands on cancer services, it is imperative to understand why this is the case, and to strategise a way forward. As a result, we explored the factors influencing the implementation of advanced practitioner radiation therapists (APRT) in Australia. The research outcome was a complex process of Navigating Uncertainty, which described the contextual, social and personal factors surrounding implementation successes and challenges. Further synthesis of the findings was undertaken to highlight the fundamental features influencing this process, with the intention to provide a useful understanding for practitioners seeking APRT implementation.

Methods

Data were collected through national online focus groups and case studies with 53 participants. Analysis identified a constructivist grounded theory process of Navigating Uncertainty. Further analysis of the categories and properties of the process was undertaken to synthesise findings at a higher level of abstraction.

Results

Four overarching and intertwined factors were influencing the implementation of APRT. Uncertainty occurred when practitioners attempted to conceptualise and assimilate the new role into the workplace. Power was apparent in the advocacy and legitimisation of the APRT by centre leaders. Value was vital to achieving purposeful outcomes. Identity was evident in the personal transition of the APRT, and in the boundary work with others.

Conclusion

Recognising and negotiating uncertainty, power, value and identity is essential for APRT implementation strategies to succeed. A framework to guide practitioners towards the implementation of APRT has been described that embodies these factors.
Immunovirology of cytomegalovirus infection in allogeneic stem cell transplant recipients undergoing prophylaxis with letermovir: A narrative review
Authors: Solano Carlos , Giménez Estela , Albert Eliseo , Piñana José L. , Navarro David
Published: August 2023

On November 7, 2017, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the use of letermovir (LMV) for prophylaxis of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in adult CMV‐seropositive allogeneic stem cell transplant recipients. After 6 years of use, a large body of real‐world experience has been accumulated that validates the Phase III clinical trial results, in which LMV was shown to significantly reduce the risk of clinically significant CMV infection—defined as CMV end‐organ disease or CMV DNAemia requiring pre‐emptive antiviral therapy (PET)—and increase survival up to Week 24 after treatment inception. Notwithstanding, several issues still need to be settled, thus further investigation is required. First, since viral DNA may accumulate as a result of LMV‐driven abortive CMV infection, what is the optimal viral load threshold in the blood that would prompt LMV prophylaxis interruption and PET inception? Should this be adapted to the patient's risk? Second, what is the impact of LMV prophylaxis on the reconstitution of functional CMV‐specific T‐cell responses? Would it be a wise approach to individually tailor the duration of LMV treatment according to the number of peripheral blood CMV‐specific T cells at the end of regular prophylaxis? Third, how frequently do LMV‐resistant strains arise while patients are on LMV prophylaxis and how could this be minimized? Here, we discuss the literature addressing these topics.
Nonenzymatic hydrolysis of 1,2:3,4‐diepoxybutane: A kinetic study including pH, temperature, and ion effects
Authors: Romański Michał , Mikołajewski Jakub , Główka Franciszek
Published: August 2023

1,3‐Butadiene is a carcinogenic and mutagenic air pollutant metabolized to butane epoxides, among which 1,2:3,4‐diepoxybutane (DEB) exhibits the highest genotoxicity. DEB is also formed by 1,3‐butadiene oxidation in the air, producing a direct environmental and occupational exposure. In this paper, we studied the kinetics of the nonenzymatic hydrolysis of DEB at a wide range of pH and temperature, including the catalytic effect of ionic species. The compound degradation involved a general and specific acid‐base catalysis of the epoxide ring hydrolysis. DEB had the greatest stability at pH 5–9, when the rates of acid‐catalyzed and base‐catalyzed hydrolysis are negligible and the neutral hydrolysis predominates. The capability of the buffer anions to accelerate the DEB decay increased in the order H2PO4− < HCO3− < CH3COO− < HPO42− < and CO32−. The Arrhenius equation well described the influence of temperature on the acid‐catalyzed, base‐catalyzed, and neutral hydrolysis rate constants. According to the obtained hydrolysis model coupled with the found thermodynamic parameters, the half‐life of DEB in natural fresh waters spans from 2 days at 30°C to 31 days at 0°C, but in the laboratory waste adjusted to pH 1or 13, the half‐life shortens to 2–3 h at 20°C. Therefore, the results of the paper help to assess the risk of exposure to the genotoxic action of DEB.
Sustainable use of gully agricultural land and water resources for sustainable development goals: A case study in the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Qu Lulu , Liu Yansui , Li Yurui , Wang Jieyong , Yang Feng , Wang Yongsheng
Published: August 2023

In the context of global advocacy for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), agriculture and rural areas as the main carrying place of human production activities, is not only the focus area of SDGs, but also the focus point for the implementation of SDGs. Gully agricultural land and water resources (GALWR) sustainable use in China's Loess Plateau is vital to the evolution law of human–earth relationships and agricultural multi‐functional transformation for SDGs. However, the characteristics and patterns of GALWR and the optimization strategy are still unclear. Here, we identified the spatial distribution characteristics of GALWR and evaluated the carrying capacity of GALWR in the loess hilly and gully region (LHGR). We further investigated the driving factors for GALWR sustainable use and the optimization strategy of the dual guidance of economy and society as well as resources and ecology. The following results were obtained: (1) The distribution of cultivated land in the LHGR largely differed among districts and counties, with a higher distribution in the middle and a lower one on both sides. The matching degree of the GALWR was low, and the sensitivity analysis showed that the per capita water resources, the proportion of primary production, the drought index, and the vegetation coverage were the sensitive factors affecting the sustainable use of the GALWR in the LHGR. (2) There were obvious differences in the coupling and coordination of GALWR in the LHGR in 2020, and was a lack of synchronization regarding the GALWR use. (3) In order to form a gully rural regional functionalized and structured spatial structure system, the optimized strategy of GALWR for SDGs in the Loess Plateau was proposed according to adaptive management and the multi‐element coupling process of “water‐land‐climate‐crop” to protect gullies, rivers, forests, farmlands, and lakes in a coordinated way and in combination with land engineering control measures. This study provides a guideline for the transformation of agriculture and the construction of a new pattern of high‐quality agricultural development in the Loess Plateau.
Design and selection of carbon quota mechanisms from the perspective of carbon trading
Authors: Yu Xiaodong , Sun Fangcheng , Zhao Hongmei , Dai Jiahong , Shu Yuxin , Chen Xin
Published: August 2023

The research shows that when the initial carbon emission per unit product and the emission reduction cost coefficient achieve a certain combination range, the two carbon quota mechanisms will be effective, and its feasible range will be larger. Further, compared with the carbon quota mechanism based on output, manufacturers and retailers will always increase the sales price and wholesale price of products under the carbon quota mechanism based on emission reduction technology but will reduce the emission reduction per unit product. The government will also reduce its total carbon quota under the carbon quota mechanism based on emission reduction technology.
An effective analytical method for fractional Brusselator reaction–diffusion system
Authors: Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Jagatheeshwari R. , Ravichandran C. , Veeresha P.
Published: August 2023

In recent years, reaction–diffusion models have attracted researchers for their wide applications. In this article, we consider Brusselator reaction–diffusion system (BRDS), which is known for its cross diffusion and pattern formations in biology and chemistry. We derive an analytical solution of the fractional Brusselator reaction–diffusion system (FBRDS) with the help of the initial condition by a novel method, residual power series method (RPSM). The system solution has been analyzed by graph.
Modifying the trajectory of epicardial leads can substantially reduce MRI‐induced RF heating in pediatric patients with a cardiac implantable electronic device at 1.5T
Authors: Jiang Fuchang , Bhusal Bhumi , Nguyen Bach , Monge Michael , Webster Gregory , Kim Daniel , Bonmassar Giorgio , Popsecu Andrada R. , Golestanirad Laleh
Published: August 2023

Purpose

After epicardial cardiac implantable electronic devices are implanted in pediatric patients, they become ineligible to receive MRI exams due to an elevated risk of RF heating. We investigated whether simple modifications in the trajectories of epicardial leads could substantially and reliably reduce RF heating during MRI at 1.5 T, with benefits extending to abandoned leads.

Methods

Electromagnetic simulations were performed to assess RF heating of two common 35‐cm epicardial lead trajectories exhibiting different degrees of coupling with MRI incident electric fields. Experiments in anthropomorphic phantoms implanted with commercial cardiac implantable electronic devices confirmed the findings. Both electromagnetic simulations and experimental measurements were performed using head‐first and feet‐first positioning and various landmarks. Transfer function approach was used to assess the performance of suggested modifications in realistic body models.

Results

Simulations (head‐first, chest landmark) of a 35‐cm epicardial lead with a trajectory where the excess length of the lead was looped and placed on the inferior surface of the heart showed an 87‐fold reduction in the 0.1 g–averaged specific absorption rate compared with the lead where the excess length was looped on the anterior surface. Repeated experiments with a commercial epicardial device confirmed this. For fully implanted systems following low–specific absorption rate trajectories, there was a 16‐fold reduction in the average temperature rise and a 28‐fold reduction for abandoned leads. The transfer function method predicted a 7‐fold reduction in the RF heating in 336 realistic scenarios.

Conclusion

Surgical modification of epicardial lead trajectory can substantially reduce RF heating at 1.5 T, with benefits extending to abandoned leads.
Thin slab quantitative susceptibility mapping
Authors: Naji Nashwan , Wilman Alan
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Susceptibility maps reconstructed from thin slabs may suffer underestimation due to background‐field removal imperfections near slab boundaries and the increased difficulty of solving a 3D‐inversion problem with reduced support, particularly in the direction of the main magnetic field. Reliable QSM reconstruction from thin slabs would enable focal acquisitions in a much‐reduced scan time.

Methods

This work proposes using additional rapid low‐resolution data of extended spatial coverage to improve background‐field estimation and regularize the inversion‐to‐susceptibility process for high resolution, thin slab data. The new method was tested using simulated and in‐vivo brain data of high resolution (0.33 × 0.33 × 0.33 mm3 and 0.54 × 0.54 × 0.65 mm3, respectively) at 3T, and compared to the standard large volume approach.

Results

Using the proposed method, in‐vivo high‐resolution QSM at 3T was obtained from slabs of width as small as 10.4 mm, aided by a lower‐resolution dataset of 24 times coarser voxels. Simulations showed that the proposed method produced more consistent measurements from slabs of at least eight slices. Reducing the mean ROI error to 5% required the low‐resolution data to cover ˜60 mm in the direction of the main field, have at least 2‐mm isotropic resolution that is not coarser than the high‐resolution data by more than four‐fold in any direction.

Conclusion

Applying the proposed method enabled focal QSM acquisitions at sub‐millimeter resolution within reasonable acquisition time.
Recommendations to improve maternal health equity among Black women in “The South”: A position paper from the SNRS minority health research interest & implementation group
Authors: Eapen Doncy , Mbango Catherine , Daniels Glenda , Mathew Joseph Nitha , Mary Annapoorna , Mathews Nisha , Carr Kathryn Kravetz , Wells Cheryl , Suriaga Armiel , Saint Fleur Angeline
Published: August 2023

Black women in the United States experience a higher maternal mortality rate compared to other racial groups. The maternal mortality rate among non‐Hispanic Black women is 3.5 times that of non‐Hispanic White women and is higher in the South compared to other regions. The majority of pregnancy‐related deaths in Black women are deemed to be preventable. Healthy People 2030 directs healthcare providers to advance health equity through societal efforts to address avoidable inequalities, historical and contemporary injustices, and the elimination of health and healthcare disparities. The Southern Nursing Research Society has put forward this position paper to provide recommendations to improve maternal health equity among Black women. Recommendations for nurses, multidisciplinary healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers are discussed.
Improvement of the tensile properties of laminated composites reinforced with Heli‐Coil forms of carbon nanotubes
Authors: Sritharan Ramanan , Askari Davood
Published: August 2023

The traditional composite laminated structures suffer from the absence of reinforcements in the thickness direction between the laminae and microfibers, which will result in poor interaction between the laminae, individual microfiber filaments, and the resin. In addition, out‐of‐the‐plane properties are generally dominated and controlled by poor matrix properties (e.g., mechanical, electrical, and thermal). Most prior investigations were focused on the use of straight carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, or nanomaterials in particle forms to improve the resin properties. Our previous research has shown that CNTs with helical (Heli‐Coil) geometries (HCNTs) are more effective as a nanoscale reinforcement to improve the properties of polymeric resins. Because of their inertness, the interfacial bonding between CNTs and the resin is generally weak, and they can be easily pulled out of the resin (inefficient load transfer) if the CNTs are in their straight forms. However, the helical geometries of HCNTs can provide unique mechanical‐interlocking mechanisms between the constituents that can substantially improve their effectiveness as a nanoscale reinforcement, leading to improvements in composite performance, properties, and multifunctionality. In this research, HCNTs at low concentrations below 0.1 wt% were processed and then used to fabricate nanocomposite laminates. Tensile test specimens were carefully prepared following the ASTM D3039/D3039M standard and then tested, analyzed, and evaluated. Additionally, the fractured test specimens were inspected and analyzed using optical and 3D scanning laser‐confocal‐microscopy imaging. The test results showed improvements of 12.3%, 11.3%, and 17.5% for the tensile strength, modulus, and strain‐to‐failure, respectively. In conclusion, traditional fiber‐reinforced composites can considerably benefit from the helical forms of HCNTs.

Highlights

The helical geometry of CNTs (HCNTs) is more effective for composite reinforcement.

HCNTs provide unique interlocking mechanisms between the composite constituents.

HCNTs can considerably improve the multifunctional characteristics of the composites.

HCNTs can considerably improve the tensile properties of composite laminates.

Traditional composites can substantially benefit from the helical forms of HCNTs.
Pathogenic roles of microRNAs and competing endogenous RNAs in Hirschsprung disease (HSCR): Potential diagnostic markers for HSCR
Authors: Hou Lian , Kang Quan
Published: August 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous small non‐coding single‐stranded RNAs. They can bind to the 3′‐untranslated region (3′UTR) of mRNAs and regulate the expression of their target genes by inducing degradation or translation inhibition of the corresponding mRNAs. Competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) can disable miRNAs by combining miRNAs response elements (MREs) with miRNAs. Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is a common pediatric surgical disease in which cells derived from the enteric neural crest fail to colonize the distal colon, but its pathogenesis is not very clear. In recent years, with more and more studies on miRNAs in HSCR, miRNAs seem to be involved in the pathogenesis of HSCR. miRNAs in HSCR affect the proliferation and migration of enteric neural crest cells mainly through target genes, and ceRNAs inhibit miRNAs, thus participating in the pathogenesis of HSCR. It was reported that some miRNAs in the serum of children with HSCR were significantly higher than those in the control group. Therefore, miRNAs are expected to be a new noninvasive early screening biomarker and targeted therapy point for HSCR. Here, we provide a summary of the understanding of miRNAs and ceRNAs in regulating enteric nervous system proliferation and migration and their roles in the pathogenesis of HSCR.
Sex disparities in treatment patterns after metformin initiation among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Oktora Monika P. , de Vos Stijn , de Vries Sieta T. , Hak Eelko , Denig Petra
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To assess sex differences in treatment patterns after metformin initiation among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) patients.

Methods

A cohort study was conducted using the Groningen Initiative to ANalyze Type 2 diabetes Treatment (GIANTT) primary care database. Patients aged ≥18 years initiating metformin were followed 2–5 years. Markov modeling was conducted to estimate treatment transition rates and calculate adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) comparing men with women adjusted for age, HbA1c level at initiation, and cardiovascular disease history. Kaplan–Meier analyses and Cox proportional‐hazards models were used to determine the time to and likelihood of getting treatment intensification. HbA1c levels at initiation and intensification were compared using Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results

In total, 11 508 metformin initiators were included (50.1% women). The most common transition after initiation was a dose increase (probability women 0.52, men 0.59, no significant difference). Women were more likely than men to switch to any other non‐insulin hypoglycemic agent after initiation (aHR 1.66; 95% CI 1.31–2.12), after dose increase (aHR 1.48; 95% CI 1.10–1.98) and after dose decrease (aHR 2.64; 95% CI 1.28–5.46). Time to intensification was longer, time to switching was shorter, and HbA1c levels at initiation and intensification were lower for women than men.

Conclusions

Sex disparities were observed in treatment transitions after metformin initiation. Women more often switched treatment than men, which suggest that prescribers acknowledge more tolerance or other problems for metformin in women. Men intensified treatment earlier and at higher HbA1c levels, indicative of a higher need for treatment intensification.
Proteome of urticating setae of Ochrogaster lunifer, a processionary caterpillar of medical and veterinary importance, including primary structures of putative toxins
Authors: Walker Andrew A. , Perkins Lynda E. , Battisti Andrea , Zalucki Myron P. , King Glenn F.
Published: August 2023

Ochrogaster lunifer (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae) is an Australian processionary caterpillar with detachable urticating setae that have a defensive function. These true setae induce inflammation when they contact human skin, and equine foetal loss syndrome if they are accidentally ingested by gravid horses. We used transcriptomics and proteomics to identify proteins and peptides present in and on urticating setae, which may include toxins that contribute to inflammation and/or foetal loss syndromes. This process identified 37 putative toxins, including multiple homologues of the honeybee venom peptide secapin, and proteins with similarity to odorant binding proteins, arylphorins, and the insect immune modulator Diedel. This work identifies candidate molecules that may contribute to the adverse effects of processionary caterpillar setae on human and animal health.
Efficacy of platelet‐rich plasma and platelet‐rich fibrin in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Peng Yundong , Du Liang , Yang Bowen , Fan Donghao , Jia Shaohui , Zheng Cheng
Published: August 2023

Objective

Basic scientific studies have demonstrated positive effects of platelet‐rich therapies, such as platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF), on tendon repair. However, clinical evidence indicating improved prognosis is controversial. In this study, we aimed to determine whether augmentation of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with PRP and PRF improves outcomes compared to arthroscopic repair alone.

Literature Survey

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library databases were comprehensively searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published until June 2022 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. No language restriction was applied.

Methodology

The primary outcomes were the rate of repeat tears after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (retear rate) and clinical function scores (Constant‐Murley Score, University of California, Los Angeles Score), and the extracted data were assessed for quality. Statistical analyses were performed using Review manager 5.3, and p < .05 was considered statistically significant.

Synthesis

Ten RCTs with 628 patients were included. The results showed that augmenting surgery with PRP reduces retear rates compared to surgery alone (risk ratio [RR] = 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.23–0.69, p = .001), whereas PRF has no effect on retear rates (p = .92). Regarding clinical function, PRP improves Constant‐Murley scores (mean difference [MD] = 2.03, 95% CI 0.13–3.93, p = .04) and University of California, Los Angeles scores (MD = 1.30, 95% CI 0.36–2.24, p = .007), whereas PRF improves only Constant‐Murley scores (MD = 3.93, 95% CI 1.50–6.36, p = .002). However, these differences were small and below the minimum clinically important difference threshold.

Conclusions

This study showed that compared to arthroscopic rotator cuff repair alone, the application of PRP in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair reduces retear rate and improves clinical function scores, whereas the application of PRF has no clinically meaningful benefit. The small number and heterogeneity of studies as well as methodological limitations and risk of bias limit confidence in the true effect.
Cannabidiol tempers alcohol intake and neuroendocrine and behavioural correlates in alcohol binge drinking adolescent rats. Focus on calcitonin gene‐related peptide's brain levels
Authors: Tringali Giuseppe , Lavanco Gianluca , Castelli Valentina , Pizzolanti Giuseppe , Kuchar Martin , Currò Diego , Cannizzaro Carla , Brancato Anna
Published: August 2023

Alcohol binge drinking is common among adolescents and may challenge the signalling systems that process affective stimuli, including calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) signalling. Here, we employed a rat model of adolescent binge drinking to evaluate reward‐, social‐ and aversion‐related behaviour, glucocorticoid output and CGRP levels in affect‐related brain regions. As a potential rescue, the effect of the phytocannabinoid cannabidiol was explored. Adolescent male rats underwent the intermittent 20% alcohol two‐bottle choice paradigm; at the binge day (BD) and the 24 h withdrawal day (WD), we assessed CGRP expression in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), nucleus accumbens (NAc), amygdala, hypothalamus and brainstem; in addition, we evaluated sucrose preference, social motivation and drive, nociceptive response, and serum corticosterone levels. Cannabidiol (40 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered before each drinking session, and its effect was measured on the above‐mentioned readouts. At BD and WD, rats displayed decreased CGRP expression in mPFC, NAc and amygdala; increased CGRP levels in the brainstem; increased response to rewarding‐ and nociceptive stimuli and decreased social drive; reduced serum corticosterone levels. Cannabidiol reduced alcohol consumption and preference; normalised the abnormal corticolimbic CGRP expression, and the reward and aversion‐related hyper‐responsivity, as well as glucocorticoid levels in alcohol binge‐like drinking rats. Overall, CGRP can represent both a mediator and a target of alcohol binge‐like drinking and provides a further piece in the intricate puzzle of alcohol‐induced behavioural and neuroendocrine sequelae. CBD shows promising effects in limiting adolescent alcohol binge drinking and rebalancing the bio‐behavioural abnormalities.
Perspective on Solid‐State Single‐Photon Sources in the Infrared for Quantum Technology
Authors: Castelletto Stefania , Boretti Alberto
Published: August 2023

Solid‐state single‐photon sources in the infrared region are crucial for advancing quantum technologies, in particular long‐distance fiber or on‐chip quantum communication, quantum key distribution, quantum computing, quantum sensing and metrology, and fundamental research. The ability to generate and manipulate individual photons in the infrared spectrum is an area of expansion due to the availability of advanced material quality or new emerging materials. The latest advancements in the discovery and utilization of single‐photon sources in various material platforms and their foreseeable future development are here summarized.
Dynamic Electronic and Ionic Transport Actuated by Cobalt‐Doped MoSe2/rGO for Superior Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Tao Song , Zhang Xinyue , Gao Zhaoyang , Chen Tsung‐Yi , Min Huihua , Yang Hao , Chen Han‐Yi , Shen Xiaodong , Wang Jin , Yang Hui
Published: August 2023

Molybdenum selenium (MoSe2) has tremendous potential in potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) due to its large interlayer distance, favorable bandgap, and high theoretical specific capacity. However, the poor conductivity and large K+ insertion/extraction in MoSe2 inevitably leads to sluggish reaction kinetics and poor structural stability. Herein, Coinduced engineering is employed to illuminate high‐conductivity electron pathway and mobile ion diffusion of MoSe2 nanosheets anchored on reduced graphene oxide substrate (Co‐MoSe2/rGO). Benefiting from the activated electronic conductivity and ion diffusion kinetics, and an expanded interlayer spacing resulting from Co doping, combined with the interface coupling with highly conductive reduced graphene oxide (rGO) substrate through Mo‐C bonding, the Co‐MoSe2/rGO anode demonstrates remarkable reversible capacity, superior rate capability, and stable long‐term cyclability for potassium storage, as well as superior energy density and high power density for potassium‐ion capacitors. Systematic performance measurement, dynamic analysis, in‐situ/ex‐situ measurements, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations elucidate the performance‐enhancing mechanism of Co‐MoSe2/rGO in view of the electronic and ionic transport kinetics. This work offers deep atomic insights into the fundamental factors of electrodes for potassium‐ion batteries/capacitors with superior electrochemical performance.
ChArmTelo Enables Large‐Scale Chromosome Arm‐Level Telomere Analysis across Human Populations and in Cancer Patients
Authors: Guo Mengbiao , Songyang Zhou , Xiong Yuanyan
Published: August 2023

Telomeres are structures protecting chromosome ends. However, a scalable and cost‐effective method to investigate chromosome arm‐level (ChArm) telomeres (Telos) in large‐scale projects is still lacking, hindering intensive investigation of high‐resolution telomeres across cancers and other diseases. Here, ChArmTelo, the first computational toolbox to analyze telomeres at chromosome arm level in human and other animal species, using 10X linked‐read and similar technologies, is presented. ChArmTelo currently consists of two algorithms, TeloEM and TeloKnow, for arm‐level telomere length (TL) analysis. The algorithms are demonstrated by comprehensive analysis of chromosome arm‐level telomere lengths (chArmTLs) in nearly 400 whole genome sequencing samples (WGS) from human populations and animals, including healthy and cancer samples. Notably, considerable performance improvement contributed by using the latest complete telomere‐to‐telomere reference genome (CHM13v2), compared to hg38, is shown. ChArmTelo reveals population‐specific chArmTL differences and liver cancer signatures of chArmTLs and that DNA replication origin disruption may contribute to cancer by affecting TLs. Importantly, ChArmTelo can be readily applied to tens of thousands of cancer and healthy samples with published WGS data.
The Voltage‐Adaptive Effect in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries Integrated with an Electron‐Conductive Interlayer
Authors: Wang Junzhang , Xu Yunkai , Xu Zhou , Shan Yunpeng , Yang Jingting , Luo Zhongkuan , Yang Hui , Guo Xingzhong , Lu Jun
Published: August 2023

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are considered as one of the top competitors to go beyond Li‐ion batteries. However, the shuttle effect triggered by soluble lithium polysulfides (LPSs) brings great troubles for understanding the solid–liquid–solid conversion process of the sulfur cathode. Herein, a new characterization technique is developed to deepen the understanding of such soluble LPSs shuttling, by integrating an electron‐conductive interlayer. The voltage of the interlayer exhibits a voltage‐adaptive effect to the cathode, indicating the true dependence of the open‐circuit voltages on the LPSs instead of on the solid cathodes. Furthermore, a quantitative method can be introduced to monitor the shuttling LPSs by such interlayer design, and it shows great potential to be a new standard technique, providing direct comparison of the shuttle effect between different studies. The newly developed interlayer design paves an avenue to gain new insight into the reaction process and improve the performance of Li–S batteries.
Genetically Engineered Biomimetic Nanoparticles for Targeted Delivery of mRNA to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Chen Jianhai , Tan Jianwei , Li Jian , Cheng Wenxiang , Ke Liqing , Wang Anqiao , Wang Qiqing , Lin Sien , Li Gang , Wang Benguo , Chen Jingqin , Zhang Peng
Published: August 2023

In addition to inhibiting persistent inflammation, phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted from chromosome 10 (PTEN) is known as an important therapeutic target for alleviating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms. Modulation of PTEN gene expression in synovial tissue using messenger RNA (mRNA) is a promising approach to combat RA. However, mRNA therapeutics are often hampered by unsatisfactory stability and inefficient localization in synovial tissue. In this study, a genetically engineered biomimetic membrane‐coated mRNA (MR@P‐mPTEN) carrier that effectively delivers mRNA‐PTEN (mPTEN) directly to the RA joint is presented. By overexpressing tumor necrosis factor (TNF‐α) receptors on macrophage biomimetic membranes via plasmid transfection, decoys that reduce inflammatory pathway activation are prepared for TNF‐α. The resulting construct, MR@P‐mPTEN, shows good stability and RA targeting based on in vivo fluorescence imaging. It is also found that MR@P‐mPTEN competitively binds TNF‐α and activates the PTEN pathway in vitro and in vivo, thereby inhibiting synovitis and joint damage. Clinical micro‐computed tomography and histological analyses confirm the treatment effects. These results suggest that the genetically engineered biomimetic therapeutic platform MR@P‐mPTEN both inhibits pro‐inflammatory cytokines and upregulates PTEN protein expression to alleviate RA damage, providing a new a new combination strategy for RA treatment.
Combining root and soil hydraulics in macroscopic representations of root water uptake
Authors: Vanderborght Jan , Leitner Daniel , Schnepf Andrea , Couvreur Valentin , Vereecken Harry , Javaux Mathieu
Published: August 2023

Plant water uptake and plant and soil water status are important for the soil water balance and plant growth. They depend on atmospheric water demand and the accessibility of soil water to plant roots, which is in turn related to the hydraulic properties of the root system and the soil around root segments. We present a simulation model that describes water flow in the soil–plant system mechanistically considering both root and soil hydraulic properties. We developed an approach to upscale three‐dimensional (3D) flow in the soil toward root segments of a 3D root architecture to a model that considers one‐dimensional flow between horizontal soil layers and radial flow to root segments in that layer. The upscaled model couples upscaled linear flow equations in the root system with an analytical solution of the nonlinear radial flow equation between the soil and roots. The upscaled model avoids simplifying assumptions about root hydraulic properties and water potential drops near roots made in, respectively, soil‐ and root‐centered models. Xylem water potentials and soil–root interface potentials are explicitly simulated and show, respectively, large variations with depth and large deviations from bulk soil water potentials under dry soil conditions. Accounting for hydraulic gradients in the soil around root segments led to an earlier but slower reduction of transpiration during a drought period and a better plant water status with higher nighttime plant water potentials.
Plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria mediate soil hydro‐physical properties: An investigation with Bacillus subtilis and its mutants
Authors: Kaniz Fatema , Zheng Wenjuan , Bais Harsh , Jin Yan
Published: August 2023

Plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria and other soil bacteria have the potential to improve soil hydro‐physical properties and processes through the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). However, the mechanisms by which EPS mediates changes in soil properties and processes remain incompletely understood, partly due to variations in EPS composition produced under different environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated the influence of different bacterial traits on intrinsic soil properties and processes of evaporation and infiltration using sand treated with the wild‐type Bacillus subtilis variant (UD1022) and its two mutant variants, – and srf. The – mutant suppresses EPS production through alterations in the eps and tasA genes, while the srf mutant lacks the gene for surfactin production. Experimental results confirmed that the solution viscosity of the – mutant was the lowest and the solution surface tension of the srf mutant was the highest among the three tested bacteria strains. The distinct intrinsic properties of EPS produced by these bacterial strains resulted in varied hydro‐physical responses in the treated sand. Key influences included modifications in wettability, hydraulic decoupling (or mixed wettability), and aggregation, which collectively led to reduced evaporation rates and heterogeneous water distribution during infiltration in the bacteria‐treated sands. Our findings advance the understanding of the role bacterial EPS play in vadose zone hydrology and offer insights for the development of sustainable strategies for increasing water retention, supporting crop production in arid regions, and facilitating land restoration.
Grundlagen: Output
Authors: Schrills Tim
Published: August 2023

Neben den bereits vorgestellten Inputs und der Funktionsweise sind vor allem die Ergebnisse von KI-Systemen entscheidend. Sie bieten die Grundlage für alle weiteren Verarbeitungen und Handlungen, sei es durch Mensch oder Maschine. Dieses Kapitel macht Unterschiede zwischen den verschiedenen Kategorien von Outputs deutlich, bspw. inwiefern ein System nur Kategorien kennt oder einen kontinuierlichen Wert bereitstellt. Dazu werden verschiedene Arten von KI-Outputs, sowie das Konzept von Metadaten an zwei Fallbeispielen vorgestellt und durchexerziert.
Prozessautomatisierung
Authors: Dhungel Anna-Katharina
Published: August 2023

Es gibt unterschiedliche Ansätze, Prozesse und Abläufe in öffentlichen Verwaltungen zu verbessern, etwa durch ein kontinuierliches Prozess-Verbesserungsmanagement oder regelmäßige strukturierte Reflexions-Workshops. Aus technischer Sicht können auch hier gegebenenfalls KI-Systeme zum Einsatz kommen. In diesem Kapitel werden entsprechende Einsatzmöglichkeiten vorgestellt. Zunächst wird erörtert, inwiefern Assistenzsysteme Prozesse unterstützen und betroffende Mitarbeitende entlastet werden können (9.2). Anschließend wird ein Überblick über das sogenannte Business Process Management geliefert (9.3). Darauf aufbauend werden Grundlagen zu Robotic Process Automation (9.4) und dessen arbeitspsychologische Auswirkungen bei einem möglichen Einsatz vorgestellt (9.5). Schließlich wird diskutiert, wie sich ein Einsatz von Robotic Process Automation in der Verwaltung gestalten könnte und welche Vor- und Nachteile damit einhergehen (9.6). Das angeeignete Wissen kann in einer Übung reflektiert (9.7) und im eigenen Anwendungsfall eingesetzt werden (9.8).
Three relativistic neutrons in a finite volume
Authors: Draper Zachary T. , Hansen Maxwell T. , Romero-López Fernando , Sharpe Stephen R.
Published: August 2023

Abstract

We generalize the relativistic field-theoretic (RFT) three-particle finite-volume formalism to systems of three identical, massive, spin-1/2 fermions, such as three neutrons. This allows, in principle, for the determination of the three-neutron interaction from the finite-volume spectrum of three-neutron states, which can be obtained from lattice QCD calculations.
Spacetime topology from holographic entanglement
Authors: Cantcheff Marcelo Botta
Published: August 2023

Abstract

An asymptotically AdS geometry connecting two or more boundaries is given by a entangled state, that can be expanded in the product basis of the Hilbert spaces of each CFT living on the boundaries. We derive a prescription to compute this expansion for states describing spacetimes with general spatial topology in arbitrary dimension. To large N, the expansion coincides with the Schmidt decomposition and the coefficients are given by n-point correlation functions on a particular Euclidean geometry.

We show that this applies to all spacetime that admits a Hartle-Hawking type of wave functional, which via a standard hypothesis on the spatial topology, can be (one to one) mapped to CFT states defined on the asymptotic boundary. It is also observed that these states are endowed with quantum coherence properties.

Applying this as holographic engineering, one can to construct an emergent space geometry with certain predetermined topology by preparing an entangled state of the dual quantum system. As an example, we apply the method to calculate the expansion and characterize a spacetime whose initial spatial topology is a (genus one) handlebody.
Z2-odd Polonyi field in twin Higgs model
Authors: Choi Gongjun , Harigaya Keisuke
Published: August 2023

Abstract

We consider a supersymmetric mirror Twin Higgs model in a gravity-mediated supersymmetry-breaking scenario. We point out that the Polonyi field can be odd under the Z2 symmetry exchanging the Standard Model with the mirror sector while gaugino masses are generated at tree-level. We discuss the dynamics of the Polonyi field during and after inflation and show that the Polonyi problem is absent. The Polonyi field couples to the two sectors with opposite signs, which may serve as origin of the Z2-breaking of the Higgs potential in Twin Higgs models. We also estimate the Z2-breaking in soft masses of supersymmetric particles.