bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of Xylocaine spray on suture material degradation
Authors: Jannati Pantea , Sørensen Charlotte Arp , Gommesen Ditte , Glavind‐Kristensen Marianne , Seehafer Peggy , Kindberg Sara Fevre , Hjorth Sarah
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To compare the tensile strength of fast absorbable Polyglactin 910 suture material when impregnated with various agents for local anesthesia and to investigate whether the presence of ethanol in Xylocaine spray could explain a potential reduction in tensile strength after use of Xylocaine spray.

Methods

In all, 120 suture samples of Polyglactin 910 were divided into four groups of 30. These four groups were randomly impregnated with isotonic sodium chloride, isotonic sodium chloride plus Xylocaine spray, isotonic sodium chloride plus Xylocaine gel, or isotonic sodium chloride plus ethanol. After impregnation, the sutures were stored in sealed glass tubes in a heating cabinet at 37°C for 72 h. Thereafter, the tensile strength of these 120 samples was assessed by a universal tensile testing machine. The maximal force needed to break the suture material was recorded in newtons (N).

Results

Fast absorbable Polyglactin 910 suture material impregnated with Xylocaine spray or ethanol showed weakened tensile strength (mean values 11.40 and 11.86 N, respectively), whereas the specimens impregnated with Xylocaine gel or sodium chloride retained their tensile strength better (mean values 13.81 and 13.28 N, respectively; mean difference between Xylocaine gel and Xylocaine spray −2.41 N, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this in vitro experiment, ethanol and Xylocaine spray weakened the tensile strength of fast absorbable Polyglactin 910 sutures. Use of Xylocaine spray, which contains ethanol, for local anesthesia might lead to early breakdown of the suture material and wound rupture. The authors suggest caution when using Xylocaine spray in combination with fast absorbable Polyglactin 910 suture.
Yes, I will do it! Factors promoting the intention to volunteer after COVID‐19 pandemic in Italy
Authors: Gaboardi Marta , Naddeo Davide , Meneghini Anna Maria , Lenzi Michela , Canale Natale , Stanzani Sandro , Santinello Massimo
Published: January 2024

This cross‐sectional study assessed the extent to which the intention to volunteer after the COVID‐19 pandemic is associated with resilience, post‐traumatic growth, and community service self‐efficacy in a representative Italian sample (N = 295; Mage = 44.77; SD = 14.79; range = 18–83 years; 53.22% men). The model tested through a path analysis revealed a positive association between community service self‐efficacy and intention to continue volunteering. Multi‐group comparisons revealed that this relationship was maintained in participants who were active volunteers, while in the group of former volunteers, only a positive association between post‐traumatic growth and intention to volunteer was found. This study contributed to highlight the importance of community service self‐efficacy and post‐traumatic growth in the volunteering experience and the intention to continue volunteering in the future.
Activation of autophagy promotes the inhibitory effect of curcumin analog EF‐24 against MDA‐MB‐231 cancer cells
Authors: Zhao Yin‐Yin , Li Jun , Wang Hao‐Qi , Zheng Hao‐Bo , Ma Shi‐Wei , Zhou Guang‐Zhou
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide. EF‐24, an analog of curcumin, has been shown to possess promising anticancer effects. However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. In the present study, the inhibitory effect of EF‐24 against one breast cancer cell line, MDA‐MB‐231, and its anti‐migration ability were assessed by MTT, wound healing, and Transwell assay. Furthermore, we found that EF‐24 could induce initiation of autophagy as evidenced by fluorescence and electron microscope observation. EF‐24 also induced mitochondrial apoptosis in MDA‐MB‐231 cells as detected by Hoechst 33342 staining, flow cytometry analysis, and western blot analysis. In addition, the early autophagy inhibitor 3‐MA could reduce the cleavage of PARP protein and protect cells from EF‐24‐induced apoptosis, while the autophagy inducer (rapamycin) could enhance the anticancer effect of EF‐24 in MDA‐MB‐231 cells, which suggest that EF‐24 induces crosstalk between autophagy and apoptosis, which herein participate in the antiproliferative effect of EF‐24 in breast cancer cells. Moreover, removal of EF‐24‐activated ROS with NAC significantly reversed migration ability of MDA‐MB‐231 cells, indicating that EF‐24 exerted an inhibitory effect through a ROS‐mediating pathway. These results will help to elucidate the antitumor mechanism of curcumin analogs and to explore future potential clinical applications.
Aromatic and magnetic properties in a series of heavy rare earth‐doped Ge6 cluster anions
Authors: Zhang Jia‐Ming , Wang Huai‐Qian , Li Hui‐Fang , Mei Xun‐Jie , Zeng Jin‐Kun , Qin Lan‐Xin , Zheng Hao , Zhang Yong‐Hang , Jiang Kai‐Le , Zhang Bo , Wu Wen‐Hai
Published: January 2024

A series of pentagonal bipyramidal anionic germanium clusters doped with heavy rare earth elements, (RE = Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, and Lu), have been identified at the PBE0/def2‐TZVP level using density functional theory (DFT). Our findings reveal that the centrally doped pentagonal ring structure demonstrates enhanced stability and heightened aromaticity due to its uniform bonding characteristics and a larger charge transfer region. Through natural population analysis and spin density diagrams, we observed a monotonic decrease in the magnetic moment from Gd to Yb. This is attributed to the decreasing number of unpaired electrons in the 4f orbitals of the heavy rare earth atoms. Interestingly, the system doped with Er atoms showed lower stability and anti‐aromaticity, likely due to the involvement of the 4f orbitals in bonding. Conversely, the systems doped with Gd and Tb atoms stood out for their high magnetism and stability, making them potential building blocks for rare earth‐doped semiconductor materials.
Neurobiology of cognitive abilities in early childhood autism
Authors: Denisova Kristina
Published: January 2024

This perspective considers complexities in the relationship between impaired cognitive abilities and autism from a maturational, developmental perspective, and aims to serve as a helpful guide for the complex and growing investigation of cognitive abilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Low Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and ASD are frequently co‐occurring. About 37% of 8‐year old children and 48% of 4‐year old children diagnosed with ASD also have Intellectual Disability, with IQ below 70. And, low IQ in early infancy, including below 1 year of age, carries a 40% greater chance of receiving ASD diagnosis in early childhood. We consider the evidence that may explain this co‐occurrence, including the possibility that high IQ may “rescue” the social communication issues, as well as the possible role of critical periods during growth and development. We consider how early low IQ may subsume a part of a subgroup of individuals with ASD, in particular, those diagnosed with autism in very early childhood, and we provide neurobiological evidence in support of this subtype. Moreover, we distinguish the concept of early low IQ from the delay in speech onset in preschool and school‐aged children, based on (i) age and (ii) impairments in both verbal and non‐verbal domains. The etiology of these early‐diagnosed, early low IQ ASD cases is different from later‐diagnosed, average or higher‐IQ cases, and from children with speech delay onset. Given recent interest in formulating new subtypes of autism, rather than continuing to conceive of ASD as a spectrum, as well as new subtypes that vary in the degree of severity along the spectrum, we identify gaps in knowledge and directions for future work in this complex and growing area.
Phosphorus removal from agricultural tile drainage effluent with activated alumina in novel adsorption reactors
Authors: Husk Barry , Balch Gordon , Sanchez Juan Sebastian , Ejack Leanne , Whalen Joann K.
Published: January 2024

Subsurface tile drains under agricultural field crops are a major source of phosphorus (P) discharge to aquatic ecosystems, contributing to the eutrophication of surface waters. Adsorption reactors for P removal from drainage water (P‐reactors) could reduce P outflow from agricultural land but were rarely studied in cold, temperate climates. In our study, four low‐cost P‐reactors were installed in agricultural fields in south‐central Québec, Canada. Activated alumina (AA) beads were used as P‐adsorptive material, and the reactors were connected to tile drain outlets. Paired water samples (39 events) from reactor inlets and outlets were analyzed for P species and other physicochemical parameters during one calendar year to assess the P removal from tile drain effluent in the P‐reactors. Collectively, the P‐reactors retained approximately half (48%) of the total mass of P flowing through the tile drains, mostly (92%) as particulate P. The mass of AA beads adsorbed 11% of the dissolved‐P fractions. Results are interpreted in the context of the field drainage area and will require adjustments to the P‐reactor design to accommodate larger fields. The P‐reactors remained structurally intact throughout all four seasons in a cold temperate climate, showing the potential of simple, inexpensive P‐reactors to reduce P concentration in tile drain effluent.
Wall‐mounted folding chairs to promote resident physician sitting at the hospital bedside
Authors: Golden Blair P. , Tackett Sean , Kobayashi Kimiyoshi , Nelson Terry S. , Agrawal Alison M. , Zhang Jerry , Jackson Nicole A. , Mills Geron , Lorigiano Ting‐Jia , Hirpa Meron , Lin Jessica S. , Johnson Trent , Sajja Aparna , Disney Sarah , Huang Shanshan , Nayak Juhi , Lautzenheiser Matthew , Berry Stephen A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Sitting at the bedside may improve patient‐clinician communication; however, many clinicians do not regularly sit during inpatient encounters.

Objective

To determine the impact of adding wall‐mounted folding chairs inside patient rooms, beyond any impact from a resident education campaign, on the patient‐reported frequency of sitting at the bedside by internal medicine resident physicians.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prospective, controlled pre‐post trial between 2019 and 2022 (data collection paused 2020–2021 due to COVID‐19) at an academic hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Folding chairs were installed in two of four internal medicine units and educational activities were delivered equally across all units.

Main Outcome and Measures

Patient‐reported frequency of sitting at bedside, assessed as means on Likert‐type items with 1 being “never” and 5 being “every single time.” We also examined the frequency of other patient‐reported communication behaviors.

Results

Two hundred fifty six and 206 patients enrolled in the pre and post‐intervention periods, respectively. The mean frequency of patient‐reported sitting by resident physicians increased from 1.8 (SD 1.2) to 2.3 (1.2) on education‐only units (absolute difference 0.48 [95% CI: 0.21–0.75]) and from 2.0 (1.3) to 3.2 (1.4) on units receiving chairs (1.16, [0.87–1.45]). Comparing differences between groups using ordered logistic regression adjusting for clustering within residents, units with added chairs had greater increases in sitting (odds ratio 2.05 [1.10–3.82]), spending enough time at the bedside (2.43 [1.32–4.49]), and checking for understanding (3.04 [1.44–6.39]). Improvements in sitting and other behaviors were sustained on both types of units.

Conclusions

Adding wall‐mounted folding chairs may help promote effective patient‐clinician communication.
Association between inpatient team continuity and clerkship student academic performance
Authors: Sawicki Jonathan G. , Sriram Karishma , Hansen Ivy , Good Brian
Published: January 2024

Objective

To determine the association between inpatient team continuity, defined as the maximum number of days the same student, resident, and attending worked together on the inpatient wards, and the academic performance of students in a pediatric block clerkship.

Methods

We retrospectively identified students who rotated in the pediatric clerkship at a single institution from 2020 to 2022. We used multiple linear regression models to adjust for multiple confounders and used a one‐way analysis of variance to compare adjusted outcomes across quartiles of inpatient team continuity.

Results

A total of 227 students were included in the analysis. Students' preceptor ratings increased by 0.04 on a scale of 0–4 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01–0.06; p = .001), and their final pediatric grade increased by 0.02 on a scale of 0–4 (95% CI 0.01–0.02; p < .001) with each 1‐day increase in inpatient team continuity. There was no statistically significant association between team continuity and shelf exam scores or observed structured clinical examination scores. Preceptor ratings and final clerkship grades increased across quartiles of team continuity, with the greatest increase being between the second, 6–7 days of continuity, and third, 8–10 days of continuity, quartiles.

Conclusions

Increased inpatient team continuity is associated with students receiving higher preceptor ratings and achieving a higher final pediatric clerkship grade. While the mechanisms driving these associations remain unknown, the results add to the literature base supporting the importance of preceptor continuity in undergraduate medical education.
Development and evaluation of best practice advisory alert for patient eligibility in a hospital‐at‐home program: A multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Maniaci Michael J. , Torres‐Guzman Ricardo A. , Avila Francisco R. , Maita Karla , Garcia John P. , Forte Antonio J. , Rutledge Rachel , Dugani Sagar B. , Campbell Shannon M. , Pritchard Ingrid J. , Paulson Margaret R.
Published: January 2024

Background

Hospital‐at‐home (HaH) is a growing model of care that has been shown to improve patient outcomes, satisfaction, and cost‐effectiveness. However, selecting appropriate patients for HaH is challenging, often requiring burdensome manual screening by clinicians. To facilitate HaH enrollment, electronic health record (EHR) tools such as best practice advisories (BPAs) can be used to alert providers of potential HaH candidates.

Objective

To describe the development and implementation of a BPA for identifying HaH eligible patients in Mayo Clinic's Advanced Care at Home (ACH) program, and to evaluate the provider response and the patient characteristics that triggered the BPA.

Design, Setting, and Participants

We conducted a retrospective multicenter study of hospitalized patients who triggered the BPA notification for ACH eligibility between March and December 2021 at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL and Mayo Clinic Health System in Eau Claire, WI. We extracted demographic and diagnosis data from the patients as well as characteristics of the providers who received the BPA notification.

Intervention

The BPA was developed based on the ACH inclusion and exclusion criteria, which were derived from clinical guidelines, literature review, and expert consensus. The BPA was integrated into the EHR and displayed a pop‐up message to the provider when a patient met the criteria for ACH eligibility. The provider could choose to refer the patient to ACH, dismiss the notification, or defer the decision.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcomes were the number and proportion of BPA notifications that resulted in a referral to ACH, and the number and proportion of referrals that were accepted by the ACH clinical team and transferred to ACH. We also analyzed the factors associated with the provider's decision to refer or not refer the patient to ACH, such as the provider's role, location, and specialty.

Results

During the study period, 8962 notifications were triggered for 2847 patients. Providers opted to refer 711 (11.4%) of the total notifications linked to 324 unique patients. After review by the ACH clinical team, 31 of the 324 referrals (9.6%) met clinical and social criteria and were transferred to ACH. In multivariable analysis, Wisconsin nurses, physician assistants, and in‐training personnel had lower odds of referring the patients to ACH when compared to attending physicians.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Potential of Multiparametric Renal MRI in Kidney Transplant Patients
Authors: Echeverria‐Chasco Rebeca , Martin‐Moreno Paloma L. , Aramendía‐Vidaurreta Veronica , Garcia‐Ruiz Leyre , Mora‐Gutiérrez José María , Vidorreta Marta , Villanueva Arantxa , Cano David , Bastarrika Gorka , Garcia‐Fernandez Nuria , Fernández‐Seara Maria A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Multiparametric MRI provides assessment of functional and structural parameters in kidney allografts. It offers a non‐invasive alternative to the current reference standard of kidney biopsy.

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic utility of MRI parameters in the assessment of allograft function in the first 3‐months post‐transplantation.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

32 transplant recipients (54 ± 17 years, 20 females), divided into two groups according to estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at 3‐months post‐transplantation: inferior graft function (IGF; eGFR<45 mL/min/1.73 m2, n = 10) and superior graft function (SGF; eGFR ≥ 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, n = 22). Further categorization was based on the need for hemodialysis (C1) and decrease in s‐creatinine (C2) at 1‐week post‐transplantation: delayed‐graft‐function (DGF: n = 4 C1, n = 10 C2) and early graft‐function (EGF: n = 28 C1, n = 22 C2).

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling, T1‐mapping, and diffusion‐weighted imaging.

Assessment

Multiparametric MRI was evaluated at 1‐week in all patients and 3‐months after transplantation in 28 patients. Renal blood flow (RBF), diffusion coefficients (ADC, ΔADC, D, D, D*, flowing fraction f), T1 and T1 were calculated in cortex and medulla. The diagnostic and prognostic value of these parameters, obtained at 3‐months and 1‐week post‐transplantation, respectively, was evaluated in the cortex to discriminate between DGF and EGF, and between SGF and IGF.

Statistical Tests

Logistic regression, receiver‐operating‐characteristics, area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC), confidence intervals (CIs), analysis‐of‐variance, t‐test, Wilcoxon‐Mann–Whitney test, Fisher's exact test, Pearson's correlation. P‐value<0.05 was considered significant.

Results

DGF patients exhibited significantly lower cortical RBF and f and higher D*. The diagnostic value of MRI for detecting DGF was excellent (AUC = 100%). Significant differences between patients with IGF and SGF were found in RBF, ∆T1, and ∆D. Multiparametric MRI showed higher diagnostic (AUC = 95.32%; CI: 88%–100%) and prognostic (AUC = 97.47%, CI: 92%–100%) values for detecting IGF than eGFR (AUC = 89.50%, CI: 79%–100%).

Data Conclusion

Multiparametric MRI may show high diagnostic and prognostic value in transplanted patients, yielding better results compared to eGFR measurements.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
AI‐Enhanced Detection of Clinically Relevant Structural and Functional Anomalies in MRI: Traversing the Landscape of Conventional to Explainable Approaches
Authors: Khosravi Pegah , Mohammadi Saber , Zahiri Fatemeh , Khodarahmi Masoud , Zahiri Javad
Published: January 2024

Anomaly detection in medical imaging, particularly within the realm of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), stands as a vital area of research with far‐reaching implications across various medical fields. This review meticulously examines the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in anomaly detection for MR images, spotlighting its transformative impact on medical diagnostics. We delve into the forefront of AI applications in MRI, exploring advanced machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) methodologies that are pivotal in enhancing the precision of diagnostic processes. The review provides a detailed analysis of preprocessing, feature extraction, classification, and segmentation techniques, alongside a comprehensive evaluation of commonly used metrics. Further, this paper explores the latest developments in ensemble methods and explainable AI, offering insights into future directions and potential breakthroughs. This review synthesizes current insights, offering a valuable guide for researchers, clinicians, and medical imaging experts. It highlights AI's crucial role in improving the precision and speed of detecting key structural and functional irregularities in MRI. Our exploration of innovative techniques and trends furthers MRI technology development, aiming to refine diagnostics, tailor treatments, and elevate patient care outcomes.

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1.
Aggravation of global maize yield loss risk under various hot and dry scenarios using multiple types of prediction approaches
Authors: Yin Xiaomeng , Leng Guoyong , Huang Shengzhi , Peng Jian
Published: January 2024

High temperature and drought are widely known to cause a reduction of crop yield, but the simultaneously occurring risks in major producing countries and the associated uncertainty across various climate change scenarios remain unclear at the global scale. Here, we evaluate global maize yield loss risk (i.e., the probability of yield reduction by over 10% relative to historical trend yield during 1981–2010) across 30 hot and dry scenarios using regression, machine learning and process‐based models. Besides examining yield loss risk in a single country, we predict the potential risks simultaneously occurring in the top two and top ten producing countries. The three approaches agree on the aggravation of yield loss risk under dry and hot scenarios, but show large discrepancy in the magnitude and sensitivities. Specifically, 2°C warming alone could lead to a global yield loss risk of 73%, 100% and 62% based on regression, long‐short term memory (LSTM) and process‐based models, respectively, and warming‐induced risks can be further aggravated by droughts especially in process models. Global yield loss by over 10% would even become the new norm (i.e., yield loss probability is 100%) when temperature increases by over 2°C in some models. Importantly, the probabilities of yield loss simultaneously occurring in the top two countries (i.e., United States and China) and top ten countries are unexpectedly high and could even become 100% under extreme hot and dry scenarios. Our results highlight the large risks that future climate change may bring to multiple exporting and importing countries simultaneously, thus threating global food market and security. We also emphasize the important value of using different types of prediction approaches for yield projection under hot and dry scenarios, which enables more realistic estimation of uncertainty range than a single type of model.
Bioactive foamulsion gels: a unique structure prepared with gellan gum and Acanthophyllum glandulosum extract
Authors: Sabeghi Yeganeh , Varidi Mehdi , Nooshkam Majid
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Foamulsions have become increasingly popular in the food industry due to their ability to enhance the textural, sensory and health‐promoting properties of food products. This study was therefore aimed to design and prepare a novel gelled structure, foamulsion gel containing 0–600 g L−1 oil, with gellan gum (GG; 7, 10 and 13 g L−1) and saponin‐rich antioxidant Acanthophyllum glandulosum extract (AGE; 2, 6 and 10 g L−1).

RESULTS

The interaction between components was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. The overrun and porosity of the foamulsion gels increased with antioxidant AGE (1.30 times) and reduced with oil (up to ca 70% and 30%, respectively) and GG levels. The systems were highly stable, and no water or oil was released during the physical stability experiments. Microscopic images showed that the size of air cells was significantly larger than that of oil droplets. The foamulsion gels based on 13 g L−1 GG and 10 g L−1 AGE had markedly higher elastic (G′) and viscous (G′′) moduli than other samples, and exhibited an elastic and solid‐like behavior (G′ > G′′). The highest gel firmness was found in oil‐free sample, and the presence of oil resulted in a lower firmness induced by the larger size and lubrication effect of oil droplets.

CONCLUSION

As a result, the interactions between AGE, GG and oil could lead to the creation of new aerated structures known as bioactive foamulsion gels. These gels exhibit excellent foamability, stability and viscoelasticity and may find applications in the development of novel, healthy and low‐calorie aerated foods. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
How do leisure activities impact leisure domain and life domain satisfaction and subjective well‐being?
Authors: Kim Dohee , Park Jeongdoo , Park Byung‐Jin
Published: January 2024

This study examines the impact of leisure activities on leisure domain and life domain satisfactions and subjective well‐being (SWB) and explores the differences between genders in these associations, using data from 316 middle‐aged adults. The results suggest that sports and travel & outdoor activities have the greatest impact on physiological, psychological, and relaxing satisfactions. Social activities are key ingredients in social, psychological, and physiological satisfactions as seen by men, whereas cultural activities and hobbies are important in women's psychological satisfaction. While relaxing and social satisfactions are important in men's SWB, psychological satisfaction is the most important factor in women's SWB.
Domestic midscale chain hotel brands' effectiveness in research and development: An exploratory study
Authors: Lin Michael S. , Lin Wanyu , Xiao Qu
Published: January 2024

While many midscale chain hotel brands in China's domestic market have developed rapidly since 2010, it is still unclear how a new midscale chain hotel brand can be most effectively researched and developed. Drawing from resource‐advantage theory, this study aimed to understand the effectiveness of six key attributes of new domestic midscale chain hotel brands and map them onto a research and development (R&D) competitive position matrix. The results show that the actual R&D process lasts beyond the opening of the first hotel of the new brand and requires a further 2‐year maturation period. This study contributes to the literature by creating a maturation system that could play a key role in the effectiveness of the R&D underlying a chain hotel's brand development. It also provides a compelling tool for monitoring the effectiveness of domestic midscale chain hotel brands' R&D.
Left Ventricular Vortex Characteristics in Fetuses With Coarctation of the Aorta by Blood Speckle‐Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: Zhou Dan , Xu Ran , Liu Yushan , Yang Yang , Wu Zhongshi , Luo Yuanchen , Zeng Shi
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The aims of this study were to assess the vortex characteristics of left ventricle (LV) in fetuses with coarctation of the aorta (CoA) using high–frame rate ultrasound with blood speckle‐tracking (BST) and explore its relationships with cardiac function and morphology parameters.

Methods

Thirty fetuses with CoA and 30 gestational‐age matched normal fetuses were included in this cross‐sectional study. The area, length, width, and position of the vortex in the LV were recorded and quantitatively analyzed by BST echocardiography. The associations of vortex properties with ventricular function and morphology were also determined.

Results

Based on BST imaging, the LV vortex can be observed in 93% of the fetuses. The fetuses with CoA exhibited significantly larger and wider vortex than the controls (P < .05). Linear regression analysis indicated that vortex area was positively related to sphericity index of LV as well as isovolumic relaxation time (r = .52, P = .003 and r = .42, P = .021). There was a negative correlation between vortex area and mitral valve size (r = −.443, P = .014). No significant association was found between vortex area and myocardial performance index and aortic isthmus size.

Conclusions

It is feasible to quantitatively evaluate the left ventricular vortex in fetuses by BST. The fetuses with CoA exhibited greater vortex area and width, and the altered vortex property is associated with geometry of LV. This will facilitate our comprehension of the unique flow patterns and early cardiac remodeling in fetuses with CoA.
Circulating TWEAK levels in patients with acne vulgaris: Effect of oral isotretinoin therapy
Authors: Ibrahim Hassan M. , Hassan Mohammed H. , El‐Taieb Moustafa A. , Abdel‐Hamid Soheir , Younis Ali , Ali Mahmoud , Amer Mohammed , Hegazy Eisa M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Updates on the aetiopathogenesis of acne vulgaris, particularly the inflammatory process, are becoming more and more clear. The TNF superfamily includes tumor necrosis factor (TNF) related weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK). It plays a significant part in a variety of inflammatory skin conditions, including psoriasis, alopecia areata and many others. However, its role in acne vulgaris remains questionable.

Objectives

We aim in this research to evaluate the circulating levels of TWEAK in various severities of acne vulgaris patients and their blood levels before and after oral treatment with isotretinoin.

Methods

This study includes 100 acne vulgaris patients and 100 healthy controls in a case‐control design. All cases, ranging in severity, were treated for 3 months with oral isotretinoin. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique was used to measure serum TWEAK before and after 3 months of isotretinoin treatment.

Results

The serum TWEAK levels were significantly higher in patients than the healthy volunteers (p < 0.001). There were significantly higher serum TWEAK levels with increasing acne vulgaris severity. Additionally, a significant decrease in serum TWEAK level after treatment by oral isotretinoin of AV patients (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

TWEAK may play an important role in aetiopathogenesis and the severity of acne vulgaris. Also, oral isotretinoin may target TWEAK in the treatment and alleviate the acne vulgaris.
Tinea capitis due to Trichophyton soudanense and Microsporum audouinii: A surprising finding
Authors: Krefting Frederik , Livingstone Elisabeth , Sondermann Wiebke , Thielmann Carl M. , Placke Jan‐Malte , Schadendorf Dirk , Polan Christina , Rath Peter Michael , Scharmann Ulrike , Uhrlaß Silke , Nenoff Pietro
Published: January 2024

Tinea capitis is a prevalent dermatophyte infection among German children, primarily caused by Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton benhamiae. Other pathogens, such as T. soudanense and M. audouinii, have also been identified in Germany. This case report describes a 10‐year‐old Angolan girl with chronic osteomyelitis who was brought to Germany for treatment, which was organized by the Friedensdorf International (Peacevillage International). In addition to chronic osteomyelitis of the lower leg, the patient presented with alopecic areas of the scalp with adherent scales, which raised the suspicion of tinea capitis. Fungal cultivation and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) diagnostics revealed a coinfection of T. soudanense and M. audouinii, which, to the best of our knowledge, has not been previously reported in Europe. After 4 weeks of systemic terbinafine treatment and topical use of ciclopirox solution and clotrimazole cream, there was a marked improvement in the patient's condition. This was confirmed by a negative fungal culture and PCR; no adverse events were reported. This report highlights a rare dual dermatophyte infection caused by T. soudanense and M. audouinii in Europe, and the successful response to treatment with systemic terbinafine and topical ciclopirox solution as well as clotrimazole cream.
Evodiamine inhibits EPRS expression to regulate glutamate metabolism and proliferation of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Lin Li‐Qi , Lv Si‐Yi , Ren Hao‐Zhe , Li Rong‐Rong , Li Lin , Pang Yun‐Qing , Wang Jing
Published: January 2024

The effects of evodiamine (EVO) on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are not yet understood. Based on our earlier findings, we hypothesized that evodiamine may affect OSCC cell proliferation and glutamate metabolism by modulating the expression of EPRS (glutamyl‐prolyl‐tRNA synthetase 1). From GEPIA, we obtained EPRS expression data in patients with OSCC as well as survival prognosis data. An animal model using Cal27 cells in BALB/c nude mice was established. The expression of EPRS was assessed by immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and quantitative PCR. Glutamate measurements were performed to evaluate the impact of evodiamine on glutamate metabolism of Cal27 and SAS tumor cells. transient transfection techniques were used to knock down and modulate EPRS in these cells. EPRS is expressed at higher levels in OSCC than in normal tissues, and it predicts poor prognosis in patients. In a nude mouse xenograft model, evodiamine inhibited tumor growth and the expression of EPRS. Evodiamine impacted cell proliferation, glutamine metabolism, and EPRS expression on Cal27 and SAS cell lines. In EPRS knockdown cell lines, both cell proliferation and glutamine metabolism are suppressed. EPRS's overexpression partially restores evodiamine's inhibitory effects on cell proliferation and glutamine metabolism. This study provides crucial experimental evidence supporting the potential therapeutic application of evodiamine in treating OSCC. Evodiamine exhibits promising anti‐tumor effects by targeting EPRS to regulate glutamate metabolism.
Supporting the planning and management of biodiversity through the development of a geospatial decision support system
Authors: Mileti Florindo Antonio , Russo Danilo , Fraissinet Maurizio , Langella Giuliano , Ferraro Giuliano , Terribile Fabio
Published: January 2024

Today, the issue of biodiversity conservation is, more than ever before, one of primary importance since it has become common knowledge that biodiversity provides many services that are relevant to the sustaining of ecological integrity and, so, for the benefit of humanity. Within this framework, rural areas are particularly exposed to degradation threats and, therefore, biodiversity loss due to their lying between and interlinking with urban and natural areas. The European Commission underlines the relevance of this conservation in its Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, which identifies a series of needs for conserving biodiversity in Europe, among which is the need for more operational tools to support biodiversity management. This paper aims to demonstrate that a geoSpatial decision support system (S‐DSS), developed through focused interdisciplinary research and implemented over a Geospatial Cyberinfrastructure, might provide a powerful web‐based operational tool to encourage both the engagement of a large range of end‐users and stakeholders and the better implementation of the Habitats Directive as indicated by the Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The platform supports data visualization and on‐the‐fly computer applications for modeling, all via a web browser. The S‐DSS tool brings together knowledge of soil and environmental sciences, biodiversity and information technology. The S‐DSS tool is demonstrated through three use cases in the Campania region (Southern Italy) from different users' perspectives. The connection of data and model aims to provide information that will improve knowledge and awareness of biodiversity. In just a few clicks, the production of maps, results and statistics provides an overview of the biodiversity over a personalized area drawn by the user. The approach is highly transferable to other areas, from other administrative regions to the whole European territory, because it is based on general algorithms that are easily applied elsewhere, providing there is the necessary data availability.
The behaviour change technique: Profile of a multimodal lifestyle intervention
Authors: Englund Anja , Sommar Johan Nilsson , Krachler Benno
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The behaviour change technique taxonomy version 1 was developed to identify the smallest active ingredients of a lifestyle intervention, that is, behaviour change techniques (BCTs) based on a written description. By participation and direct observation of an intervention, we intend to not only identify BCTs but also assess exposure time for each BCT. Adding the dimension of exposure time should enable us to make quantitative comparisons between the different BCTs employed. We intend to demonstrate this by studying the hypotheses that exposure to information‐related BCTs is similar for all targeted lifestyle modalities but decreases in the course of the intervention.

Methods

During 5‐week intensive multimodal lifestyle interventions at a Swedish clinic for lifestyle medicine, we identified BCTs according to behaviour change technique taxonomy version 1 and noted exposure times to BCTs in all mandatory parts of the behaviour change intervention.

Results

Two hundred thirty‐one independent intervention components were evaluated. BCTs 8.1 Behavioural practice/rehearsal (126 h), 4.1 Instruction on how to perform the behaviour (98 h) and 6.1 Demonstration of the behaviour (65 h) were the most common in terms of exposure time. Relative exposure to BCTs with an informative nature was similar for the different treatment phases (33%−37%−28%; p = 0.09) but higher for physical activity compared to food habits, stress management and unspecific lifestyle medicine (63%−25%−22%−25%; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The behaviour change technique taxonomy version 1 can be extended by adding exposure time for different BCTs. The resulting BCT–exposure profile can be used for assessing the relative importance of different behaviour change strategies.
Treatment outcome and prognostic factors of external auditory canal squamous cell carcinoma: A retrospective study in a tertiary center
Authors: Huang Yi‐Ting , Wu Jiunn‐Liang , Chao Wen‐Yuan , Lee Wei‐Ting
Published: January 2024

Objective

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the external auditory canal (EAC) is a rare malignancy with various treatment strategies and outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics and survival outcomes and identify prognostic factors in patients with SCC of EAC.

Methods

Twenty‐one patients with SCC of EAC treated in a single tertiary center between 2009 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. The modified Pittsburgh classification system was applied for staging. Factors associated with survival were identified by univariate survival analysis.

Results

The mean age at diagnosis was 61 years (range: 41–79 years). Early‐stage (T1 + T2) accounts for 38.1% of the series and advanced‐stage (T3 + T4) accounts for 61.9%. Eighteen (85.7%) patients underwent primary surgery with curative intent. The 5‐year overall survival rate of the 21 patients was 67.4%. Tumor invasion to the otic capsule, eustachian tube, sigmoid sinus, and dura were associated with poor prognosis in univariate analysis (p = .046; .008; .027; and .08, respectively).

Conclusions

Factors predictive of less favorable survival include the history of COM, tumor invasion to the otic capsule, eustachian tube, sigmoid sinus, and dura. It is important to make a precise and systemic preoperative evaluation of disease extent.

Level of Evidence

4
Polymer Waste Valorization into Advanced Carbon Nanomaterials for Potential Energy and Environment Applications
Authors: Pattanshetti Akshata , Koli Amruta , Dhabbe Rohant , Yu Xiao‐Ying , Motkuri Radha Kishan , Chavan Vijay D. , Kim Deok‐kee , Sabale Sandip
Published: January 2024

The rise in universal population and accompanying demands have directed toward an exponential surge in the generation of polymeric waste. The estimate predicts that world‐wide plastic production will rise to ≈590 million metric tons by 2050, whereas 5000 million more tires will be routinely abandoned by 2030. Handling this waste and its detrimental consequences on the Earth's ecosystem and human health presents a significant challenge. Converting the wastes into carbon‐based functional materials viz. activated carbon, graphene, and nanotubes is considered the most scientific and adaptable method. Herein, this world provides an overview of the various sources of polymeric wastes, modes of build‐up, impact on the environment, and management approaches. Update on advances and novel modifications made in methodologies for converting diverse types of polymeric wastes into carbon nanomaterials over the last 5 years are given. A remarkable focus is made to comprehend the applications of polymeric waste‐derived carbon nanomaterials (PWDCNMs) in the CO2capture, removal of heavy metal ions, supercapacitor‐based energy storage and water splitting with an emphasis on the correlation between PWDCNMs' properties and their performances. This review offers insights into emerging developments in the upcycling of polymeric wastes and their applications in environment and energy.
The impact of technology transfer on managerial delegation under vertical product differentiation
Authors: Wang Xingtang
Published: January 2024

This paper analyzes the impact of technology transfer on managerial delegation contracts. Under price competition, if technology transfer occurs, it increases the level of managerial delegation of a firm producing low‐quality product. When the degree of technology transfer is relatively high, technology transfer improves the managerial delegation of producing high‐quality products. When the degree of technology transfer is relatively low, technology transfer reduces the managerial delegation of firms producing high‐quality products. Under quantity competition, technology transfer reduces the managerial delegation coefficient of all firms. We further analyze the Stackelberg competition and the royalty situation.
Will technological innovation uncertainty affect the distribution of benefits from low‐carbon innovation activities in industrial clusters?—A study based on gray Shapley values
Authors: Tang Xi , Feng Junwen , Mao Xiangyu , Feng Bo , Wu Junmin
Published: January 2024

Technological innovation of industrial cluster is an important measure to realize low‐carbon development. However, the uncertainty associated with new technologies can have a significant impact on the earnings of enterprises. This paper examines the benefit distribution of collaborative technological innovation in industrial clusters through the gray Shapley value, which makes up for the problem that existing research ignores the impact of the uncertainty of technological innovation on the distribution of benefits and provides a new research perspective. In addition, this paper also provides some countermeasures for the Chinese government to encourage enterprises in industrial clusters carry out low‐carbon innovation activities.
The “educational capital” of corporate boards and initial public offering pricing: Evidence from the US initial public offerings
Authors: Wu Shuai , Tang Wei , Fu Qiang , Xu Yu
Published: January 2024

We unravel the conditions under which the type of education found among board members mitigates the uncertainty in new equity markets. Our results indicate that issuers in low R&D industries—as well as those faced with complex organizational structures—leave less money on the table when their boards are dominated by executives with managerial skills. Conversely, boards with highly specialized members in small and knowledge‐intensive firms reduce underpricing. Finally, we document that both types of board education lessen initial public offering share–price volatility in the immediate post‐issue period. This research is the first to derive conclusive evidence that more executives in the boards with managerial skills and boards with highly specialized members facilitate price discovery in signaling issuer reputation on the first trading day. This study has implications that we provide investors with unique non‐financial information, boards' “education capital,” that can be considered before making investment decisions.
Assessing electrofishing effort required to estimate species richness of fishes in nonwadeable rivers of Alabama, USA
Authors: Sammons Steven M. , Dattilo Jason E. , Rider Steven J.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Much of the fish biodiversity in the southeastern USA is found in lotic systems, but assessment of fish community structure in large nonwadeable rivers has lagged compared to streams. Sampling designs that adequately estimate species richness are a prerequisite to creating bioassessment metrics but thus far has not been attempted in highly biodiverse rivers in the southeastern USA east of the Mississippi River.

Methods

Fish communities in four nonwadeable rivers across Alabama spanning catchments of 2046–57,415 km2 were sampled using electrofishing in summer and fall of 2015 and 2016. All rivers were sampled during day; two rivers were also sampled at night to assess diel changes in species accumulation.

Result

In total, 55,239 fishes were collected across rivers, representing 106 species in 24 families. Species collected continued to increase as sampling increased in all river-season combinations, rarely displaying an asymptote. Species generally accrued more quickly and accumulation curves showed more tendency to asymptote in fall than summer in all but the largest river. Species accumulated faster at night than during the day in both rivers during summer but was similar between diel periods in fall. On average, 95% of the species observed were collected in eight subreaches in fall but not until nine during summer; however, observed number of species was generally one to six species lower than mean estimates of true species richness. Sampling efforts collected approximately similar species assemblages across transects, years, season, and diel periods. Extrapolation of species accumulation curves suggested that 6–17 km of sampling distance would be required to collect all species present.

Conclusion

Results of this study demonstrate that assessing fish communities in species nonwadeable rivers requires an inordinate amount of sampling effort, which may be unattainable for many agencies. Further study is warranted to develop innovative solutions to overcome these logistical challenges.
Reproducibility of 3D pH‐weighted chemical exchange saturation transfer contrast in the healthy cervical spinal cord
Authors: Cronin Alicia E. , Liebig Patrick , Detombe Sarah A. , Duggal Neil , Bartha Robert
Published: January 2024

Spinal cord ischemia and hypoxia can be caused by compression, injury, and vascular alterations. Measuring ischemia and hypoxia directly in the spinal cord noninvasively remains challenging. Ischemia and hypoxia alter tissue pH, providing a physiologic parameter that may be more directly related to tissue viability. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) is an MRI contrast mechanism that can be made sensitive to pH. More specifically, amine/amide concentration independent detection (AACID) is a recently developed endogenous CEST contrast that has demonstrated sensitivity to intracellular pH at 9.4 T. The goal of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of AACID CEST measurements at different levels of the healthy cervical spinal cord at 3.0 T incorporating B1 correction. Using a 3.0 T MRI scanner, two 3D CEST scans (saturation pulse train followed by a 3D snapshot gradient‐echo readout) were performed on 12 healthy subjects approximately 10 days apart, with the CEST volume centered at the C4 level for all subjects. Scan–rescan reproducibility was evaluated by examining between and within‐subject coefficients of variation (CVs) and absolute AACID value differences. The C4 level of the spinal cord demonstrated the lowest within‐subject CVs (4.1%–4.3%), between‐subject CVs (5.6%–6.3%), and absolute AACID percent difference (5.8–6.1%). The B1 correction scheme significantly improved reproducibility (adjusted p‐value = 0.002) compared with the noncorrected data, suggesting that implementing B1 corrections in the spinal cord is beneficial. It was concluded that pH‐weighted AACID measurements, incorporating B1‐inhomogeneity correction, were reproducible within subjects along the healthy cervical spinal cord and that optimal image quality was achieved at the center of the 3D CEST volume.