bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CNN-Based Brain Tumor Detection Model Using Local Binary Pattern and Multilayered SVM Classifier
Authors: Kolla Morarjee , Mishra Rupesh Kumar , Zahoor ul Huq S , Vijayalata Y. , Gopalachari M Venu , Siddiquee KazyNoor-e-Alam
Published: June 2022

In this paper, an autonomous brain tumor segmentation and detection model is developed utilizing a convolutional neural network technique that included a local binary pattern and a multilayered support vector machine. The detection and classification of brain tumors are a key feature in order to aid physicians; an intelligent system must be designed with less manual work and more automated operations in mind. The collected images are then processed using image filtering techniques, followed by image intensity normalization, before proceeding to the patch extraction stage, which results in patch extracted images. During feature extraction, the RGB image is converted to a binary image by grayscale conversion via the colormap process, and this process is then completed by the local binary pattern (LBP). To extract feature information, a convolutional network can be utilized, while to detect objects, a multilayered support vector machine (ML-SVM) can be employed. CNN is a popular deep learning algorithm that is utilized in a wide variety of engineering applications. Finally, the classification approach used in this work aids in determining the presence or absence of a brain tumor. To conduct the comparison, the entire work is tested against existing procedures and the proposed approach using critical metrics such as dice similarity coefficient (DSC), Jaccard similarity index (JSI), sensitivity (SE), accuracy (ACC), specificity (SP), and precision (PR).
Refractory Mycoplasma Pneumonia in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Laboratory Features and Predictors
Authors: Huang Wanjie , Xu Xianhong , Zhao Wenqi , Cheng Qi
Published: June 2022

Background. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common pathogen of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children. M. pneumoniae infection is usually regarded as a self-limiting disease, but in some special cases, it can also develop into refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP). The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical characteristics of CRP (C-reactive protein), LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), D-dimer, neutrophils (%), lymphocytes (%), and lung consolidation in RMPP and explore their prediction results in the early stage of RMPP, which is important for early treatment. Methods. This systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, Wangfang, and Cqvip, and the date was set until February 23, 2021. For the continuous variables, mean difference (MD) with 95% CI was adopted to evaluate CRP, LDH, ESR, D-dimer, neutrophils (%), lymphocytes (%), and the correlation between lung consolidation and RMPP. Results. 20 studies including 5289 patients were included in the analysis, and the results showed that the CRP of the RMPP group (MD (95% CI): 22.29 (12.20, 32.38),

P
<
0.001

), LDH (MD (95% CI): 145.13 (78.62, 211.64),

P
<
0.001

), neutrophils (%) (MD (95% CI): 7.27 (0.31, 14.23),

P
=
0.04

), and D-dimer (MD (95% CI): 1.79 (-1.17, 4.74),

P
=
0.24

) was higher than that of the NRMPP group; the risk of lung consolidation in the RMPP group (OR (95% CI): 14.29 (4.52, 45.12),

P
<
0.001

) was higher than that in the NRMPP group, and there was no difference in ESR (MD (95% CI): 8.11 (-1.34, 17.56),

P
=
0.09

) and lymphocytes (%) (MD (95% CI): -6.27 (-12.81, 0.27),

P
=
0.06

) between the two groups. Conclusion. So, the available evidence indicates that CRP, LDH, neutrophils (%), D-dimer, and lung consolidation are predictive factors for RMPP.
Pseudogene MSTO2P Interacts with miR-128-3p to Regulate Coptisine Sensitivity of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) through TGF-β Signaling and VEGFC
Authors: Gu Minwei , Wang Xinlian
Published: June 2022

Background. Coptisine has been widely used for treating a variety of cancer types. To date, whether pseudogene is implicated in coptisine resistance of NSCLC remains unknown. Methods. We performed MTT to assess the cell viability of A549 and Calu-1 cells. The transwell assay was used to examine the invasion of cells. TUNEL was used to determine apoptosis. Results. Our data showed that coptisine treatment suppressed cell viability and invasion of NSCLC cells while contributing to apoptosis. MiR-128-3p negatively regulated MSTO2P. miR-128-3p reverted MSTO2P knockdown-attenuated cell viability and invasion, as well as promoted cell apoptosis of A549 cells. Moreover, we identified TGF-β signaling and VEGFC as key downstream effectors for MSTO2P and miR-128-3p in A549 cells. MiR-128-3p mimic inhibited TGF-β pathway-associated genes (TGFBR1, Smad2, Smad5, and Smad9), whereas miR-128-3p inhibitor exerted opposite effect. MSTO2P knockdown led to attenuated expression levels of TGFBR1, Smad2, Smad5 and Smad9. VEGFC overexpression greatly rescued miR-128-3p-modulated cell viability, invasion, and apoptosis of A549 cells. Conclusion. MSTO2P plays a role in coptisine therapy of NSCLC through miR-128-3p. The findings will advance our understanding of NSCLC treatment.
Facts and Hopes in the Relationship of EBV with Cancer Immunity and Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhang Baochun , Choi Il-Kyu
Published: June 2022

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), the first identified human tumor virus, infects and takes up residency in almost every human. However, EBV genome–positive tumors arise in only a tiny minority of infected people, presumably when the virus-carrying tumor cells are able to evade immune surveillance. Traditional views regard viral antigens as the principal targets of host immune surveillance against virus-infected cells. However, recent findings indicate that EBV-infected/-transformed B cells elicit both cytotoxic CD8+ and CD4+ T-cell responses against a wide range of overexpressed cellular antigens known to function as tumor-associated antigens (TAA), in addition to various EBV-encoded antigens. This not only broadens the ways by which the immune system controls EBV infection and prevents it from causing cancers, but also potentially extends immune protection toward EBV-unrelated cancers by targeting shared TAAs. The goal of this review is to incorporate these new findings with literature data and discuss future directions for improved understanding of EBV-induced antitumor immunity, as well as the hopes for rational immune strategies for cancer prevention and therapy.
TGFβ and CIS Inhibition Overcomes NK-cell Suppression to Restore Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Souza-Fonseca-Guimaraes Fernando , Rossi Gustavo R. , Dagley Laura F. , Foroutan Momeneh , McCulloch Timothy R. , Yousef Jumana , Park Hae-Young , Gunter Jennifer H. , Beavis Paul A. , Lin Cheng-Yu , Hediyeh-Zadeh Soroor , Camilleri Tania , Davis Melissa J. , Huntington Nicholas D.
Published: June 2022

Antibodies targeting “immune checkpoints” have revolutionized cancer therapy by reactivating tumor-resident cytotoxic lymphocytes, primarily CD8+ T cells. Interest in targeting analogous pathways in other cytotoxic lymphocytes is growing. Natural killer (NK) cells are key to cancer immunosurveillance by eradicating metastases and driving solid tumor inflammation. NK-cell antitumor function is dependent on the cytokine IL15. Ablation of the IL15 signaling inhibitor CIS (Cish) enhances NK-cell antitumor immunity by increasing NK-cell metabolism and persistence within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME has also been shown to impair NK-cell fitness via the production of immunosuppressive transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), a suppression which occurs even in the presence of high IL15 signaling. Here, we identified an unexpected interaction between CIS and the TGFβ signaling pathway in NK cells. Independently, Cish- and Tgfbr2-deficient NK cells are both hyperresponsive to IL15 and hyporesponsive to TGFβ, with dramatically enhanced antitumor immunity. Remarkably, when both these immunosuppressive genes are simultaneously deleted in NK cells, mice are largely resistant to tumor development, suggesting that combining suppression of these two pathways might represent a novel therapeutic strategy to enhance innate anticancer immunity.
Evaluation of the DLL3-targeting Antibody–Drug Conjugate Rovalpituzumab Tesirine in Preclinical Models of Neuroblastoma
Authors: Krytska Kateryna , Casey Colleen E. , Pogoriler Jennifer , Martinez Daniel , Rathi Komal S. , Farrel Alvin , Berko Esther R. , Tsang Matthew , Sano Renata R. , Kendsersky Nathan , Erickson Stephen W. , Teicher Beverly A. , Isse Kumiko , Saunders Laura , Smith Malcolm A. , Maris John M. , Mossé Yael P.
Published: June 2022

Neuroblastomas have neuroendocrine features and often show similar gene expression patterns to small cell lung cancer including high expression of delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3). Here we determine the efficacy of rovalpituzumab tesirine (Rova-T), an antibody–drug conjugated (ADC) with a pyrrolobenzodiazepine dimer toxin targeting DLL3, in preclinical models of human neuroblastoma.

We evaluated DLL3 expression in RNA-sequencing datasets and performed IHC on neuroblastoma patient-derived xenograft (PDX), human neuroblastoma primary tumor and normal childhood tissue microarrays. We then evaluated the activity of Rova-T against 11 neuroblastoma PDX models using varying doses and schedules and compared antitumor activity with expression levels.

DLL3 mRNA was differentially overexpressed in neuroblastoma at comparable levels to small cell lung cancer, as well as Wilms and rhabdoid tumors. DLL3 protein was robustly expressed across the neuroblastoma PDX array, but membranous staining was variable. The human neuroblastoma array, however, showed staining in only 44% of cases, whereas no significant staining was observed in the normal childhood tissue array. Rova-T showed a clear dose–response effect across the 11 models tested, with a single dose inducing a complete or partial response in 3 of 11 and stable disease in another 3 of 11 models. No overt signs of toxicity were observed, and there was no treatment-related mortality. Strong membranous staining was necessary, but not sufficient, for antitumor activity.

Rova-T has activity in a subset of neuroblastoma preclinical models, but heterogeneous expression in these models and the near absence of expression seen in human tumors suggests that any DLL3-targeting clinical trial should be only performed with a robust companion diagnostic to evaluate DLL3 expression for patient selection.

Significance:

GD2-directed antibody therapy is standard of care for high-risk neuroblastoma; therapy is toxic, and relapses often occur. DLL3, an inhibitory Notch ligand, is overexpressed in several neuronal cancers. A DLL3-targeting ADC showed objective activity only in neuroblastoma models with high DLL3 expression. These data provide vigilance about clinical development of DLL3 immunotherapies for neuroblastoma.
Varicella-Zoster Virus Encephalitis in an Immunocompetent Adult with Disseminated Cutaneous Herpes Zoster after Testosterone Booster Supplements: Case Report
Authors: Alhayaza Ghada , Al-Omair Abdullah , Almohanna Hind M.
Published: June 2022

Disseminated zoster affects immunocompromised individuals and has a nondermatomal distribution. We report a 28-year-old male who initially presented to the dermatology clinic with pinprick sensation over the right side of his face that was followed by vesicular eruption. Upon which he was diagnosed with herpes zoster and discharged on topical mupirocin ointment three times a day for 7 days and valacyclovir 1 g oral three times a day. A few hours later, he presented to the emergency department with drowsiness and an episode of loss of consciousness. He was then admitted by neurology and found to have herpetic encephalitis. During admission, he was started on intravenous acyclovir 10 mg/kg three times a day. After 3 weeks of intravenous acyclovir, the patient improved clinically; and all the vesicular lesions have crusted. Up to this date, there are only a few cases of immunocompetent adult patients with disseminated cutaneous herpes zoster (DCHZ), most of whom were over the age of 65 years or taking immunosuppressive medication. We report a case of DCHZ and varicella-zoster virus encephalitis in a young immunocompetent patient using daily testosterone supplements and a history of emotional and physical stress, in contrast to all previously reported cases, which presented significant risk.
Growth Arrest-Specific 6 in Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mikuteit Marie , Zschäbitz Stefanie , Erlmeier Maximilian , Autenrieth Michael , Weichert Wilko , Hartmann Arndt , Steffens Sandra , Erlmeier Franziska
Published: June 2022

Background: Overexpression of tumor-associated growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6) is found in many tumor entities. The prognostic value of Gas6 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), especially in non-clear cell RCC, is still unclear. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of Gas6 expression in a large cohort of patients with chromophobe RCC (chRCC). Material and Methods: Patients who underwent renal surgery due to chRCC were retrospectively evaluated. Tumor specimens were analyzed for Gas6 expression by immunohistochemistry. Results: Eighty-one chRCC patients were eligible for analysis; of these, 24 (29.6%) patients were positive for Gas6. No significant associations were found for Gas6 expression and clinical attributes in patients with chRCC. The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no differences in 5-year overall survival for Gas6− compared to Gas6+ (89.6% vs. 100.0%; p = 0.288) tumors. Conclusion: In chRCC, Gas6 expression is not associated with survival and other parameters of aggressiveness. Due to the rare incidence of chRCC, further studies with larger cohorts are warranted.
Rare Case of Pediatric Disseminated Choroid Plexus Papilloma: Literature Review and Call for Reclassification
Authors: Mazur-Hart David J. , Yaghi Nasser K. , Larson Erik W. , Pang Brandi W. , Woltjer Randy L. , Pettersson David R. , Sayama Christina M.
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Choroid plexus tumors are rare neuroectodermal tumors that arise from the choroid plexus. Choroid plexus papillomas (CPPs) represent the lowest grade of these types of tumors and have a WHO grade I designation. Despite their typical low grade, some CPPs can exhibit aggressive behaviors including parenchymal invasion and dissemination throughout the neuro-axis. Due to their association with the choroid plexus, patients with CPP commonly present with signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus and increased intracranial pressure. Case Presentation: A 2-year-old male presented in extremis with acute hydrocephalus and seizure. He was found to have a large left intraventricular mass with innumerable intraparenchymal and extra-axial cysts throughout his neuro-axis. A literature review revealed five similar disseminated CPP cases with innumerable lesions. This is the youngest reported patient with disseminated CPP and the first with multiple compressive lesions. Following cranial resection and thoracic decompression, the patient’s lesions have remained stable (2 years of follow-up). A literature search of the PubMed/Medline databases was performed using the search terms [“disseminated choroid plexus papilloma” OR “choroid plexus papilloma” OR “metastatic choroid plexus papilloma”] up to March 2021. Articles were then screened for similar patient radiographic presentation and histological diagnosis. To mitigate publication bias, referenced articles were utilized to identify other case reports and case series. Discussion/Conclusion: We describe a rare case of a lateral ventricle CPP with widespread leptomeningeal dissemination causing acute obstructive hydrocephalus and compressive myelopathy requiring cerebrospinal fluid diversion and intracranial resection followed by thoracic spine decompression. This case report serves to broaden knowledge of disseminated CPP and to encourage complete neuro-axis imaging for choroid plexus tumors. Additionally, we propose a naming paradigm refinement that includes radiographic characteristics.
Carotid Sources of Stroke
Authors: Mohr J.P.
Published: June 2022

The ancient Greeks used the term karotides for the great arteries in the neck, compression of which could plunge the victim into karoun: deep sleep or stupor. The artery name aside, studies of the patterns of brain infarction and their clinical severity have been an unbroken chain of growing sophistication in the past 150 years. Two main patterns emerged: perfusion failure with high-convexity infarction from hemodynamically important ipsilateral carotid stenosis or embolism from nonstenosing carotid plaque.
Decision‐Making in Seeking Emergency Care for Stroke Symptoms
Authors: Andersson Jenny , Jakobsson Sofie , Rejnö Åsa , Hansson Per‐Olof , Nielsen Susanne J. , Björck Lena
Published: June 2022

Background

Previous studies have shown that rapid treatment for stroke, especially ischemic stroke, reduces mortality and disability. The focus has mainly been on reducing time from arrival at hospital to start of treatment. However, the main reason for delay is often time from symptom onset to arrival at hospital. This study therefore aimed to explore decision‐making processes after the onset of stroke symptoms in patients experiencing a first‐time stroke.

Methods

We included 36 patients aged 18 and older, all of whom were hospitalized with a first‐time stroke between October 2018 and April 2020. All patients were interviewed once within 4 weeks of symptom onset and before hospital discharge. Eligible patients were identified retrospectively through a targeted review of medical records. The data were collected and analyzed according to the grounded theory methodology.

Results

In total, 43 potential patients were identified and asked to participate. Overall, 36 patients were included in the study: 17 women (median age 77.0 years, interquartile range 17.5) and 19 men (median age 65.7 years, interquartile range 17.2). All interviewees felt fear, and this affected their decision to seek emergency care. The decision‐making processes were described by the core category of “Acting on fear.” The reason for feeling frightened determined the actions taken. The reasons were sorted into 3 main categories: (1) “seeking care”–recognized stroke symptoms and acted immediately; (2) “pending and reluctance”–suspected stroke but awaited to seek care; and (3) “seeking an explanation”–confused by symptoms.

Conclusion

We found that decision‐making when experiencing stroke symptoms was complex. All patients felt fear, which determined their actions. Some patients knew about stroke symptoms and acted immediately. Others suspected stroke but still chose to wait, whereas others were confused and tried to find answers. These results could contribute to form future awareness campaigns.
Reassessing Moscow Conceptualism: The View from the Nest
Authors: Nicholas Mary A.
Published: June 2022

This essay argues for a radical reassessment of Moscow Conceptualism to incorporate the underappreciated Nest, the group of artists Gennady Donskoy, Mikhail Roshal, and Victor Skersis active in Moscow from 1974 to 1979. The Nest's emphasis on models of shared artistic investigation, audience autonomy, and unconstructed aesthetic response helped reshape Moscow Conceptualism in the late 1970s and early 1980s, making their experience essential to understanding both the era and the works of particular artists they influenced, including Yuri Albert, Vadim Zakharov, Nadezhda Stolpovskaya, and others. The Nest's focus on alternative media and new genres, particularly on unstructured performative works, helped transform Moscow's unofficial art world, freeing it from lingering insularity and modernist conventions.
Neo-Aramaic as a source of hitherto unattested Aramaic words and meanings
Authors: Mutzafi Hezy
Published: June 2022

The spectrum of Neo-Aramaic languages and dialects, spoken in an arch of language-islets that stretch from south-western Syria to south-western Iran, exhibits rich lexical repositories inherited from early layers of the Aramaic language. Within this wealthy lexical legacy, some genuine Aramaic lexical items are not attested in any of the literary Aramaic sources, hence it is only by virtue of these modern lexical manifestations that the existence of the ancient Aramaic antecedents of these words can be inferred or reconstructed. Such historical lacunae concern also meanings that must be of considerable antiquity, yet these meanings, pertaining to well-known Aramaic words, have no evidence in literary Aramaic, having surfaced only in the modern era. This article discusses ten selected cases of pre-modern Aramaic words and meanings that were discovered by etymological and comparative examination of their modern reflexes in North-Eastern Neo-Aramaic (NENA), Western Neo-Aramaic and Ṭuroyo.
Going Mobile to Address Emerging Climate Equity Needs in the Heterogeneous Urban Environment
Authors: Lamer Katia , Luke Edward P. , Walsh Brian , Andrade Steven , Mages Zackary , Zhu Zeen , Leghart Erin , Treserras Bernat P. , Emrick Ann , Kollias Pavlos , Vogelmann Andrew , Schoonen Martin
Published: June 2022

The Brookhaven National Laboratory Center for Multiscale Applied Sensing (CMAS) aims to address environmental equity needs in the context of a changing climate. As a first step toward this goal, the center developed a one-of-a-kind observatory tailored to the study of highly heterogeneous urban environments. This article describes the features of the mobile observatory that enable its rapid deployment either on or off the power grid, as well as its instrument payload. Beyond its unique design, the observatory optimizes data collection within the obstacle-laden urban environment using a new smart sampling paradigm. This setup facilitated the collection of previously poorly documented environmental properties, including wind profiles throughout the atmospheric column. The mobile observatory captured unique observations during its first few intensive observation periods. Vertical air motion and infrared temperature measurements collected along the faces of the supertall One Vanderbilt skyscraper in Manhattan, NY, reveal how solar and anthropogenic heating affect wind flow and thus the venting of heat, pollution, and contaminants in urban street canyons. Also, air temperature measurements collected during travel along a 150-km transect between Upton and Manhattan, NY, offer a high-resolution view of the urban heat island and reveal that temperature disparities also exist within the city across different neighborhoods. Ultimately, the datasets collected by CMAS are poised to help guide equitable urban planning by highlighting existing disparities and characterizing the impact of urban features on the urban microclimate with the goal of improving human comfort.
The Association Between Anxiety and Time to Community Release in a Sample of Incarcerated Women
Authors: Pflugradt Dawn M. , Allen Bradley P. , Butler Stephanie
Published: June 2022

Although the sociocultural factors impeding successful community re-integration for incarcerated women have been researched extensively, few studies have examined associated psychological influences. This study explored if there was a relationship between self-reported symptoms of anxiety and time to release from prison for a sample of incarcerated women. The results revealed that total self-reported symptoms of anxiety increased as time to release from prison decreased for all offenders regardless of the independent/predictor variable with the exception of age at index offense. The total scores of the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) increased as the participants’ age at time of index offenses decreased.
The Road to Routinization: A Functional Collective Action Approach for Local Sustainability Planning and Performance Management
Authors: Deslatte Aaron , Krause Rachel M. , Hawkins Christopher V.
Published: June 2022

When confronting complex challenges, governments use basic bureaucratic design heuristics -- centralization and specialization. The complexity of environmental and climate issues has drawn recent attention to the ways in which fragmented authority influences, and often challenges, the policy choices and institutional effectiveness of local governments. Sustainability planning and improved performance are potential benefits stemming from the integration of responsibilities across silos. Our central proposition is that institutionalized collective-action mechanisms, which break down siloed decision-making, foster more successful implementation of sustainability policies. We empirically examine this using two surveys of U.S. cities and find evidence that formal collective-action mechanisms positively mediate the relationship between broader agency involvement and more comprehensive performance information collection and use. However, we identify limits to the role of planning in fostering a performance culture. Specifically, cities that have engaged in broader planning conduct less-comprehensive performance management, likely due to measurement difficulty and goal ambiguity.
The International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) classification is more informative than the Tönnis classification
Authors: Sand Adam , Tiderius Carl Johan , Düppe Henrik , Wenger Daniel
Published: June 2022

Background

A new, supposedly more reproducible radiographic classification, set to replace the Tönnis classification of hip dislocations, was proposed in 2015: the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) classification.

Purpose

To compare the IHDI classification with the Tönnis classification when evaluating the severity of hip dislocations as well as their respective inter- and intra-observer reliability.

Material and Methods

Since January 2000, Swedish-born children with a hip dislocation were prospectively registered. From this registry, radiographs of 97 hips in 79 patients (91% girls; median age = 7 months), born in 2000–2009, were analyzed. Two observers, one consultant and one resident, classified each hip both by IHDI and Tönnis twice.

Results

The IHDI classification had a more even distribution of grades with the majority in grade 2–3. The Tönnis classification graded the majority (77%) of the patients as grade 2 and equally among the other grades. There was moderate inter-observer agreement using both methods calculated with Kappa, 0.61 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.44–0.79) for Tönnis and 0.62 (95% CI = 0.49–0.74) for IHDI. The resident calculated Tönnis with weak intra-observer reliability of 0.57 (95% CI = 0.40–0.74) compared to high intra-observer reliability of 0.86 (95% CI = 0.74–0.98) for the consultant. Both observers graded IHDI with high intra-observer reliability.

Conclusion

IHDI is more discriminative than the Tönnis classification when evaluating the severity of a hip dislocation in infants.
Parameter optimization for enhancing tribological properties of sol–gel alumina and aluminum silicate-coated aluminum alloy: Grey–Taguchi method
Authors: Vijay Renjish , Kumar VN Aju , Sadiq A , Sasidharan Baiju , Arif M Mohammed , Rani S
Published: June 2022

The degradation of materials by wear is reduced by the wet chemical technique, where a thin film is coated over the surface susceptible to wear. The sol–gel coating method is one of the wet chemical techniques normally employed to improve tribological and anti-corrosive properties. This paper deals with evaluating tribological properties such as coefficient of friction, volumetric wear loss, and corrosive stability of alumina and aluminum silicate-coated aluminum alloy A356. The coating parameters affecting the tribological properties are identified and the experiments are designed using Taguchi orthogonal array and optimized using the Grey relation analysis technique. The tribological characteristics at room temperature are evaluated using a pin on disc tribometer. Among the sol–gel coating parameters chosen for minimizing the effect of wear and coefficient of friction between surfaces, the temperature for heat treatment and pH of the sol–gel are identified as the critical parameters that affect the tribological characteristics. The corrosive stability of the samples has been evaluated by corrosion current, corrosion potential, and corrosive stability methods. It is found that tribological properties and corrosive stability are improved for the coated sample compared with the uncoated sample. It is also observed that alumina coating provides better tribological properties and aluminum silicate coating provides better corrosive stability.
Form-finding of shells containing both tension and compression using the Airy stress function
Authors: Miki Masaaki , Adiels Emil , Baker William , Mitchell Toby , Sehlström Alexander , Williams Chris J. K.
Published: June 2022

Pure-compression shells have been the central topic in the form-finding of shells. This study investigated tension-compression mixed-type shells by utilizing a NURBS-based isogeometric form-finding approach that analyses Airy stress functions to expand the possible plan geometry. A complete set of smooth version graphic statics tools is provided to support the analyses. The method is validated using examples with known solutions, and a further example demonstrates the possible forms of shells that the proposed method permits. Additionally, a guideline to configure a proper set of boundary conditions is presented through the lens of asymptotic lines of the stress functions.
Polyurethane and its composites derived from bio-sources: Synthesis, characterization and adsorption studies
Authors: Vijayan Jyothy G , Chandrashekar Akshatha , AG Jineesh , Prabhu T Niranjana , Kalappa Prashantha
Published: June 2022

Polyols from chaulmoogra seed oil and grape seed oil were prepared by epoxidation and ring opening of oxirane ring using lactic acid in nitrogen atmosphere with a control over their functionality. Nanocellulose was derived from Desmostachya Bipinnata grass leaves and further surface functionalized. Modified nanocellulose was used as filler to prepare porous flexible bio-based polyurethane nanocomposites via in-situ polymerization. Adsorption of malachite green (MG) dye from wastewater using the prepared polyurethane composites was carried out. The effect of varying factors such as weight percentage of filers (modified nanocellulose), dosage of the adsorbent, pH, temperature and time on the MG adsorption have been studied experimentally. Material characterization for prepared materials was carried out using FTIR, NMR, TGA, DSC, and SEM along with other physical and chemical methods. FTIR results indicated the presence of peaks at 1704 cm−1 for –C=O stretching vibrations from urethane groups, 1531 cm−1 for –NH bending, 1232 cm−1 for –C–N stretching and 1105 cm−1 for –C–O stretching in the urethane group (–NHCOO–) thus, indicating the formation of urethane linkage in the polyurethane. Polyols with functionality around 2.8 were obtained from the oils, which has contributed to forming flexible polyurethanes. Morphological studies indicate the nano fibrillation of cellulose and closed-cell porosity in polyurethane and its composites. The flexible porous PU and its nanocellulose composites displayed improved thermal stability from 256.3°C to 270.5°C. Taguchi’s L27 orthogonal array have been applied for experimental design and optimization and the results were analyzed using ANOVA for raw and S/N ratio. It was found that pH is the most influential factor for adsorption lead by quantity of nanocellulose, time, dosage of the adsorbent and temperature.
Corporate Governance and Quality of Financial Reporting in Emerging Markets: A Structured Literature Review
Authors: Rajpurohit Punita Dhansingh , Rijwani Parag Rajkumar
Published: June 2022

This article is a structured literature review (SLR) on the role of corporate governance (CG) in ensuring/improving the quality of financial reporting (FRQ) in emerging markets and identify avenues for future research. A rigorous search strategy applied across several databases resulted in 51 articles. A detailed analytical framework is used to analyse and synthesise these articles. SLR reveals five major themes of research: regulation, comparative analysis, specificities of country, political connections, and religion. These themes are examined by the selected articles using archival data of non-financial listed firms. This SLR contributes to academia and practice by providing a comprehensive descriptive analysis of the characteristics of articles; synthesising the existing research using a detailed categorisation analysis based on a comprehensive review of themes researched, measurement of CG and FRQ, methodology used, findings and use of interaction terms; and suggesting the avenues for future research. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to take a detailed account of the role of CG to ensure FRQ in emerging markets.
Development of a Self-Management Intervention for Memory Changes Linked to Androgen Deprivation Therapy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Mobeen Marya , Grunfeld Elizabeth A. , Newby Katie , Turner Andrew
Published: June 2022

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a hormone treatment for prostate cancer and is linked to altered cognition, including memory changes, which can have detrimental effects on quality of life (QOL). The aim of this research was to develop an intervention to support men with memory changes associated with ADT. The Intervention Mapping framework guided intervention development through a series of rigorous steps. A self-management booklet called MEMORY MANager was developed, which incorporated education, self-assessment, compensatory strategies and techniques to improve mood. It was found to be an acceptable means of supporting men. This booklet could be valuable to healthcare professionals and patients as a means of improving QOL among men who undergo ADT. This is the first reported self-management intervention developed for managing cognitive changes in men who undergo ADT. Although preliminary, findings appear promising. More research is needed to evaluate effectiveness of the intervention and its implementation.
Ethically important moments: Researching the intimate lives of adults labeled/with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Santinele Martino Alan
Published: June 2022

People labeled/with intellectual disabilities are rarely given the opportunity to “speak” about their sexual and romantic experiences on their own behalf. Persisting stereotypes and (over)protectionism sometimes serve as social mechanisms that silence disabled people in knowledge creation. Although further protections need to be implemented, people labeled/with intellectual disabilities must have an opportunity to share their perspectives and experiences with love and intimacy. This research note discusses some of the “ethically important moments” I have encountered as a researcher looking at the romantic and sexual lives of adults labeled/with intellectual disabilities, as well as how my embodied experience in the field led me to reflect on my own positionality as a researcher and sexual being.
EEG Resting-State Functional Networks in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Caravaglios G. , Muscoso E. G. , Blandino V. , Di Maria G. , Gangitano M. , Graziano F. , Guajana F , Piccoli T.
Published: June 2022

Background. Alzheimer’s cognitive-behavioral syndrome is the result of impaired connectivity between nerve cells, due to misfolded proteins, which accumulate and disrupt specific brain networks. Electroencephalography, because of its excellent temporal resolution, is an optimal approach for assessing the communication between functionally related brain regions. O bjective. To detect and compare EEG resting-state networks (RSNs) in patients with amnesic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), and healthy elderly (HE). Methods. We recruited 125 aMCI patients and 70 healthy elderly subjects. One hundred and twenty seconds of artifact-free EEG data were selected and compared between patients with aMCI and HE. We applied standard low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA)-independent component analysis (ICA) to assess resting-state networks. Each network consisted of a set of images, one for each frequency (delta, theta, alpha1/2, beta1/2). Results. The functional ICA analysis revealed 17 networks common to groups. The statistical procedure demonstrated that aMCI used some networks differently than HE. The most relevant findings were as follows. Amnesic-MCI had: i) increased delta/beta activity in the superior frontal gyrus and decreased alpha1 activity in the paracentral lobule (ie, default mode network); ii) greater delta/theta/alpha/beta in the superior frontal gyrus (i.e, attention network); iii) lower alpha in the left superior parietal lobe, as well as a lower delta/theta and beta, respectively in post-central, and in superior frontal gyrus(ie, attention network). Conclusions. Our study confirms sLORETA-ICA method is effective in detecting functional resting-state networks, as well as between-groups connectivity differences. The findings provide support to the Alzheimer’s network disconnection hypothesis.
When Resilience Becomes Risk: A Latent Class Analysis of Psychosocial Resources and Allostatic Load Among African American Men
Authors: Tobin Courtney S. Thomas , Gutiérrez Ángela , Erving Christy L. , Norris Keith C. , Thorpe Roland J.
Published: June 2022

There is a well-established link between psychosocial risks and psychological health among African American (AA) men. Yet, the psychosocial sources and physical health consequences of resilience (i.e., the ability to maintain good health despite adversity) remain underexplored. Using data from 283 AA men in the Nashville Stress and Health Study, the present study investigated the links between psychosocial resilience and allostatic load (AL), a biological indicator of physiological dysregulation. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified distinct resilience profiles comprising eight psychosocial resources across four categories: coping strategies, sense of control, racial identity, and social support. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests determined significant class differences in men’s AL scores. LCA results confirm a four-class model was the best fit: Class 1 (high resources, 32%), Class 2 (high coping but low control, 13%), Class 3 (low resources but high racial identity, 20%), and Class 4 (low resources but high mastery, 34%). Results reveal lower AL (better health) among Classes 1 ( m = 0.35) and 4 ( m = 0.31) and higher AL (worse health) among Classes 2 ( m = 0.44) and 3 ( m = 0.44). Findings indicate that the “quality” rather than the “quantity” of psychosocial resources matters for physical health among AA men, as positive health outcomes were observed among both low- and high-resource classes. Results suggest different resource combinations produce distinct patterns of resilience among AA men and underscore the need to further elucidate complex resilience processes among this population.
An harmonic equivalent excitation method for random vibration response
Authors: Wu Kaiwei , Ren Chuanbo , Li Lianzheng
Published: June 2022

Many loads on engineering structures had obvious randomness, such as earthquakes, wind, sea waves, uneven pavement, etc. The calculation and analysis of random vibration were complicated and inefficient, which has perplexed the development of engineering technology for a long time. To solve the above problems, this paper proposed a harmonic equivalent excitation method for structural random vibration analysis. The excitation force of multi-frequency action in continuous time interval was converted into harmonic excitation force with the same effect as superposition excitation in each discrete time interval by a harmonic equivalent method. The frequency and amplitude of harmonic excitation force in discrete-time intervals were calculated, which were then taken as the deterministic load input of the structure. The response of the structure was calculated by the conventional structural dynamic analysis method. Finally, the harmonic equivalent excitation method was used to analyze random pavement excitation and its application in the control of time-delay vibration reduction. The results show that the harmonic equivalent excitation method simplifies the calculation form of random vibration analysis without reducing the accuracy, and provides an effective method for analyzing random vibration in the engineering field.
Impact of closed-incision negative pressure wound dressings on surgical site infection following groin incisions in vascular surgery; a single-centre experience
Authors: Barry Ian Patrick , Turley Luke P , Gwilym Brenig L , Bosanquet David C , Richards Toby
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common complication in vascular surgery, and is associated with increased patient morbidity, readmission and reintervention. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of closed-incision negative pressure wound therapy (CiNPWT) upon rate of SSI and length of hospital stay.

Methods

This study was reported in line with the STROBE guidelines. We assessed the baseline incidence of SSI from a 12-month retrospective cohort and, following a change in practice intervention with CiNPWT, compared to a 6-month prospective cohort. The primary endpoint was incidence of SSI (according to CDC-NHSN guidelines) while secondary endpoints included length of hospital stay, readmission, reintervention and Days Alive and Out of Hospital (DAOH) to 90-days.

Results

A total of 127 groin incisions were performed: 76 (65 patients) within the retrospective analysis and 51 (42 patients) within the prospective analysis (of whom 69% received CiNPWT). The primary endpoint of SSI was seen in 21.1% of the retrospective cohort and 9.8% of the prospective cohort ( p = .099). Readmission was found to be significantly associated with the retrospective cohort ( p = .016) while total admission (inclusive of re-admission) was significantly longer in those in the retrospective cohort ( p = .013). DAOH-90 was 83 days (77–85) following introduction of the CiNPWT protocol as compared to the retrospective cohort (77 days (64–83), p = .04).

Conclusion

Introduction of CiNPWT was associated with a reduced length of hospital stay and improved DAOH-90. Further trials on CINPWT should include patient-centred outcomes and healthcare cost analysis.
Real-life short-term effectiveness of anti-osteoporotic treatments: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Adami Giovanni , Gavioli Irene , Rossini Maurizio , Viapiana Ombretta , Orsolini Giovanni , Benini Camilla , Bertoldo Eugenia , Fracassi Elena , Gatti Davide , Fassio Angelo
Published: June 2022

Introduction:

Randomized clinical trials have shown that anti-osteoporotic treatments can increase bone mineral density (BMD) and reduce the incidence of fragility fractures. However, data on the real-life effectiveness of anti-osteoporotic medications are still scarce.

Methods:

We conducted a cohort study on women at high risk of fracture. We retrieved clinical and densitometric data from the DeFRA database, which derives from the DeFRA tool, a web-based fracture risk assessment tool. Multivariable Cox regression survival models were employed to analyze the effectiveness of different anti-osteoporotic drugs on fracture. In sensitivity analyses, we conducted 1:1 propensity score matching analyses.

Results:

Data on 50,862 women were available. Among these, 3574 individuals had at least two consecutive visits. The crude fracture rate was 91.9/1000 person-year for non-treated patients. The crude fracture rate in bisphosphonate users was 72.1/1000 person-year, in denosumab users was 58.2/1000 person-year, and in teriparatide users was 19.3/1000 person-year. Overall, we found that bisphosphonate use was associated with a 30% lower risk of fracture compared to no treatment [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.50–0.98]. Treatment with denosumab and teriparatide were associated with 60% and 90% lower risk of fracture, respectively (aHR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.24–0.75 and aHR: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.01–0.70). Bisphosphonate use was associated with a lower risk of fracture only after 1 year of treatment.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, we found that all anti-osteoporotic medications considered in the study effectively reduced the risk of fracture in the real-life. The effect of bisphosphonate on fracture risk was apparent only after the first year of treatment. Our findings do not support the use of bisphosphonates in patients at imminent risk of fracture.
Pesticidal Activities of Callicarpa and Premna Essential Oils From Vietnam
Authors: Hung Nguyen Huy , Dai Do Ngoc , Cong Truong Nguyen , Dung Nguyen Anh , Linh Le Duy , Hoa Vo Van , Hien Tran Thu , Chuong Nguyen Thi Hong , Hien Vu Thi , Nguyen Bui Van , Setzer William N.
Published: June 2022

Mosquito-borne diseases are a consistent problem in Vietnam. Additionally, freshwater snail species are agricultural pests and are known to be intermediate hosts for several parasitic worms. There is a need for new and complementary botanical pesticidal agents for controlling these pests and essential oils have shown promise. In this work, essential oils from 2 species of Callicarpa ( C. rubella and C. sinuata) and 4 species of Premna ( P. chevalieri, P. corymbosa, P. maclurei, and P. tomentosa) were screened for mosquito larvicidal activity against Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus and for molluscicidal activity against 3 freshwater snail species, Gyraulus convexiusculus, Pomacea canaliculata, and Tarebia granifera. Callicarpa rubella essential oil showed exceptional larvicidal activity against Cx. quinquefasciatus with 24-h LC50 of 9.8 μg/mL. In addition to C. rubella, the essential oils of P. chevalieri and P. tomentosa showed notable molluscicidal activities against P. canaliculata with LC90 values ≤ 20 μg/mL. These Callicarpa and Premna essential oils were all rich in sesquiterpenes and should be considered for continued investigation as botanical pesticidal agents.
How Social Network Influences the Growth of Entrepreneurial Enterprises: Perspective on Organizational and Personal Network
Authors: Peng Huatao , Li Bingbing , Liu Yang
Published: June 2022

Network size, network density, and tie strength together determine the function of social network and affect the growth of entrepreneurial enterprises. However, how the role of network size, network density, and tie strength on the growth of entrepreneurial enterprises remains inconsistent, as well as the effect of organizational and personal network remains unclear. To solve these relationships, we employ meta-analysis to reach study goals by researching 31 independent samples from 28 references with 5,259 observations. Results have shown two main findings: (1) Both network size and tie strength have a positive and significant impact on the growth of entrepreneurial enterprises, while network density does not correlate with the growth. (2) Organizational network mainly plays a positive effect between network size and growth, while personal network plays a more significant role in the relationship of tie strength and growth than organizational network. These results promote managers to take productive strategies for entrepreneurial enterprises’ growth. Our study provides a meta-analysis to merge different sounds about the relationship of network properties to the growth of entrepreneurial enterprises, emphasizing moderators of organizational and personal networks among these above relationships. Thus, these findings make significant contributions to the field of entrepreneurship.