bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Belonging in engineering: Exploring the predictive relevance of social interaction and individual factors on undergraduate students' belonging in engineering
Authors: Polmear Madeline , Hunsu Nathaniel J. , Simmons Denise R. , Olaogun Olanrewaju P. , Lu Laura
Published: May 2024

Background

Belonging in their academic discipline affects students' participation and retention in engineering. While prior studies have conceptualized belonging as a predictor of outcomes, this study examines belonging as an outcome that depends on interpersonal and intrapersonal variables.

Purpose

This quantitative study tested a conceptual model of academic belonging for undergraduate engineering students that hypothesized how intrapersonal and interpersonal variables predict belonging in engineering. The model proposed that engineering students' satisfaction with and valuing of their academic discipline mediate these predictors' effects on belonging.

Design/Methods

This study sampled undergraduate engineering students (n = 849) across six universities and used structural equation modeling to examine the direct and indirect effects of four exogenous variables (achievement striving, grit, peer interaction, faculty interaction) on one endogenous variable (academic belonging). The model included satisfaction with and valuing of their academic discipline as mediator variables.

Results

The direct effects of peer interaction, faculty interaction, as well as passion and perseverance (sub‐constructs of grit) on academic belonging were significant. The direct effects of achievement striving on predicting academic belonging were not significant. Satisfaction mediated the effects of the predictors on students' sense of belonging in engineering.

Conclusions

Peer interaction was the most robust contributor to belonging, while faculty interaction and the value that students ascribe to their academic discipline predicted their sense of belonging in engineering. This work provides a novel model of belonging in engineering and its interpersonal and intrapersonal antecedents with educational, policy, and research implications to improve engineering students' belonging within their academic discipline.
Synthesis of cyclopentane annulated δ‐lactams via diazomethane‐mediated CC bond cleavage of α‐ketoN,O‐hemiaminals
Authors: Gorle Hari Mangeswara Rao , Marok Satwinder Singh
Published: May 2024

Diazomethane‐mediated C‐C bond cleavage of α‐keto N,O‐hemiaminals was investigated for the first time. Diazomethane as a reagent result C‐C bond cleavage of norbornyl α‐keto N,O‐hemiaminals, Grob‐like fragmentation, lead to the formation of cyclopentane annulated δ‐lactams in excellent yields. We have synthesized the precursor norbornyl α‐keto N,O‐hemiaminal by the nucleophilic displacement of halogen of norbornyl α‐diketone with the various amines.
Transient response to high‐dose niacin therapy in a patient with NAXE deficiency
Authors: Al‐Amrani Fatema , Al‐Thihli Khalid , Al‐Ajmi Eiman , Al‐Futaisi Amna , Al‐Murshedi Fathiya
Published: May 2024

Background

NAXE‐encephalopathy or early‐onset progressive encephalopathy with brain edema and/or leukoencephalopathy‐1 (PEBEL‐1) and NAXD‐encephalopathy (PEBEL‐2) have been described recently as mitochondrial disorders causing psychomotor regression, hypotonia, ataxia, quadriparesis, ophthalmoparesis, respiratory insufficiency, encephalopathy, and seizures with the onset being usually within the first three years of life. It usually leads to rapid disease progression and death in early childhood. Anecdotal reports suggest that niacin, through its role in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotinde (NAD) de novo synthesis, corrects biochemical derangement, and slows down disease progression. Reports so far have supported this observation.

Methods

We describe a patient with a confirmed PEBEL‐1 diagnosis and report his clinical response to niacin therapy. Moreover, we systematically searched the literature for PEBEL‐1 and PEBEL‐2 patients treated with niacin and details about response to treatment and clinical data were reviewed. Furthermore, we are describing off‐label use of a COX2 inhibitor to treat niacin‐related urticaria in NAXE‐encephalopathy.

Results

So far, seven patients with PEBEL‐1 and PEBEL‐2 treated with niacin were reported, and all patients showed a good response for therapy or stabilization of symptoms. We report a patient exhibiting PEBEL‐1 with an unfavorable outcome despite showing initial stabilization and receiving the highest dose of niacin reported to date. Niacin therapy failed to halt disease progression or attain stabilization of the disease in this patient.

Conclusion

Despite previous positive results for niacin supplementation in patients with PEBEL‐1 and PEBEL‐2, this is the first report of a patient with PEBEL‐1 who deteriorated to fatal outcome despite being started on the highest dose of niacin therapy reported to date.
Remote monitoring of cardiac implantable electronic devices using smart device interface versus radiofrequency‐based interface: A systematic review
Authors: Tan Vern Hsen , See Tow Hui Xin , Fong Khi Yung , Wang Yue , Yeo Colin , Ching Chi Keong , Lim Toon Wei
Published: May 2024

Background

Guidelines recommended remote monitoring (RM) in managing patients with Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices. In recent years, smart device (phone or tablet) monitoring‐based RM (SM‐RM) was introduced. This study aims to systematically review SM‐RM versus bedside monitor RM (BM‐RM) using radiofrequency in terms of compliance, connectivity, and episode transmission time.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review, searching three international databases from inception until July 2023 for studies comparing SM‐RM (intervention group) versus BM‐RM (control group).

Results

Two matched studies (21 978 patients) were retrieved (SM‐RM arm: 9642 patients, BM‐RM arm: 12 336 patients). There is significantly higher compliance among SM‐RM patients compared with BM‐RM patients in both pacemaker and defibrillator patients. Manyam et al. found that more SM‐RM patients than BM‐RM patients transmitted at least once (98.1% vs. 94.3%, p < .001), and Tarakji et al. showed that SM‐RM patients have higher success rates of scheduled transmissions than traditional BM‐RM methods (SM‐RM: 94.6%, pacemaker manual: 56.3%, pacemaker wireless: 77.0%, defibrillator wireless: 87.1%). There were higher enrolment rates, completed scheduled and patient‐initiated transmissions, shorter episode transmission time, and higher connectivity among SM‐RM patients compared to BM‐RM patients. Younger patients (aged <75) had more patient‐initiated transmissions, and a higher proportion had ≥10 transmissions compared with older patients (aged ≥75) in both SM‐RM and BM‐RM groups.

Conclusion

SM‐RM is a step in the right direction, with good compliance, connectivity, and shorter episode transmission time, empowering patients to be in control of their health. Further research on cost‐effectiveness and long‐term clinical outcomes can be carried out.
Can fertilization of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) with potassium sulfate cause oxidative stress in the plants?
Authors: Hütsch Birgit W. , Heid Annabelle , Keipp Katrin , Schubert Sven
Published: May 2024

Background

Potatoes are regarded very prone to chloride toxicity, and the application of sulfate‐based potassium fertilizers is therefore recommended. However, in several studies, no significant differences between KCl and K2SO4 on tuber yield and starch concentration were found. In addition, plant shoots occasionally showed more pronounced stress symptoms after sulfate compared to chloride treatment.

Aims

This study aimed to identify reasons for enhanced stress occurrence of potato plants after K2SO4 instead of KCl fertilization.

Methods

We conducted a pot experiment with the potato cultivar Marabel, which showed to be chloride‐resistant in our previous study, and applied 1 g K or 2 g K either as K2SO4 or KCl. Plant shoots were analyzed for nutrients, sugars, and antioxidative capacity shortly before start of flowering (intermediate harvest), and tubers were harvested at physiological maturity and their starch concentration and yield were determined.

Results

With sulfate‐based K fertilization, the start of flowering and ripening as well as the achievement of physiological maturity occurred earlier than with KCl supply. However, the accelerated development of K2SO4‐treated plants did not affect shoot fresh and dry mass shortly before flowering and at maturity, showing similar values as in the KCl treatment. With 2 g K as K2SO4, the potato plants produced much larger and less than half the number of tubers compared to 2 g K as KCl, resulting in a significantly reduced tuber fresh mass. Tuber starch concentration as well as starch yield per plant were not significantly affected by the kind of K fertilization. In plant shoots shortly before flowering, calcium and magnesium concentrations were significantly decreased, combined with a significant increase in antioxidative capacity after application of 2 g K as K2SO4 compared to KCl. Sugar concentrations and contents in potato shoots at flowering were mostly unaffected by the kind of K fertilizer.

Conclusions

Stronger toxicity symptoms and growth inhibition after sulfate compared to chloride application, combined with a significant increase in antioxidative capacity, provide evidence for sulfate‐induced oxidative stress. A higher production of organic anions such as succinate may be involved in the stress reaction. This needs to be investigated in more detail in further studies.
The use of fixed study main effects in arm‐based network meta‐analysis
Authors: Piepho Hans‐Peter , Madden Laurence V. , Williams Emlyn R.
Published: May 2024

Methods of network meta‐analysis (NMA) can be classified as arm‐based and contrast‐based approaches. There are several arm‐based approaches, and some of these have been criticized because they recover inter‐study information and hence do not obey the principle of concurrent control. Here, we point out that recovery of inter‐study information in arm‐based NMA can be prevented by fitting a fixed main effect for studies. Advantages of arm‐based NMA are discussed.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is associated with improved disease‐free survival in pancreatic cancer patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy with vascular resection
Authors: Dillon Dustin L. , Park Joon Y. , Mederos Michael A. , Seo Young‐Ji , King Jonathan , Hines Joe , Donahue Timothy , Girgis Mark D.
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is becoming favored for all pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Patients with seemingly resectable disease infrequently still display vascular involvement intraoperatively. Outcomes following NAC versus upfront surgery in patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with vascular resection are unknown.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of PDAC patients who underwent PD with vascular resection between January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2020, within a single academic center. Clinicopathologic characteristics and disease‐free survival (DFS) were compared between NAC versus upfront surgery cohorts using the Kaplan–Meier estimate and Cox proportional‐hazards regression model.

Results

Eighty‐one patients who underwent PD with vascular resection for PDAC were included. Forty‐six patients (56%) received NAC. The NAC cohort more often had pathologic N0 status (47.8% vs. 8.6%, p < 0.001), had decreased vascular invasion (11% vs. 40%, p = 0.002), and completed chemotherapy (80% vs. 40%, p < 0.01). The NAC cohort demonstrated improved DFS (40.5 vs. 14.3 months, p = 0.007). In multivariable analysis, NAC remained independently associated with increased DFS (HR = 0.48, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

NAC was associated with improved clinicopathologic outcomes and DFS in PD with vascular resection. These findings demonstrate the advantage of NAC in PDAC patients undergoing PD with vascular resection.
Triheptanoin Did Not Show Benefit versus Placebo for the Treatment of Paroxysmal Movement Disorders in Glut1 Deficiency Syndrome: Results of a Randomized Phase 3 Study
Authors: De Giorgis Valentina , Bhatia Kailash P. , Boespflug‐Tanguy Odile , Gras Domitille , Marina Adela Della , Desurkar Archana , Toledo Manuel , Miller Ian , Rotstein Michael , Schneider Susanne A. , Tarquinio Daniel C. , Weber Yvonne , Brandabur Melanie , Mayhew Jill , Koutsoukos Tony , De Vivo Darryl C.
Published: May 2024

Background

Paroxysmal movement disorders are common in Glut1 deficiency syndrome (Glut1DS). Not all patients respond to or tolerate ketogenic diets.

Objectives

The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of triheptanoin in reducing the frequency of disabling movement disorders in patients with Glut1DS not receiving a ketogenic diet.

Methods

UX007G‐CL301 was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase 3 crossover study. After a 6‐week run‐in, eligible patients were randomized 1:1 to the first sequence (triheptanoin/placebo or placebo/triheptanoin) titration plus maintenance, followed by washout and the opposite sequence titration plus maintenance. The placebo (safflower oil) matched the appearance, taste, and smell of triheptanoin. Open‐label triheptanoin was administered in the extension. The frequency of disabling paroxysmal movement disorder events per 4 weeks (recorded by diary during maintenance; primary endpoint) was assessed by Wilcoxon rank‐sum test.

Results

Forty‐three patients (children, n = 16; adults, n = 27) were randomized and treated. There was no difference between triheptanoin and placebo in the mean (interquartile range) number of disabling paroxysmal movement disorder events (14.3 [4.7–38.3] vs. 11.8; [3.2–28.7]; Hodges‐Lehmann estimated median difference: 1.46; 95% confidence interval, −1.12 to 4.36; P = 0.2684). Treatment‐emergent adverse events were mild/moderate in severity and included diarrhea, vomiting, upper abdominal pain, headache, and nausea. Two patients discontinued the study because of non‐serious adverse events that were predominantly gastrointestinal. The study was closed early during the open‐label extension because of lack of effectiveness. Seven patients continued to receive triheptanoin compassionately.

Conclusion

There were no significant differences between the triheptanoin and placebo groups in the frequency of disabling movement disorder events during the double‐blind maintenance period. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Qatar's National Mental Health Survey—The World Mental Health Qatar: Sampling design, instrument adaptation, quality control, and fielding procedures
Authors: Khaled Salma M. , Amro Iman , Bader Lina , Lee Holmes John , Le Trung Kien , Diop Abdoulaye
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The World Mental Health Qatar (WMHQ) study, the first national general population mental health survey in Qatar, was conducted as part of the World Health Organization (WHO) World Mental Health (WMH) Survey Initiative. It was one of the few WMH survey conducted during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This paper presents the methodological advances and challenges encountered while conducting the survey by telephone during the pandemic.

Methods

Disproportionate stratified sampling using a national‐level cellular telephone frame selected a representative sample of Arabic‐speaking adults. Participants were initially contacted via Short Message Service text, followed by telephone interviews. WMH training materials supported a comprehensive training program, and data quality was ensured through a quality control indicator system and extensive monitoring.

Results

Over 234 days, 5195 interviews in Arabic were completed, averaging 77 min each. In line with Qatar's population, the majority of participants were non‐Qatari residents living in Qatar (72.2%).

Conclusions

A distributed remote Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing system facilitated centralized quality monitoring and data security. However, the pandemic intensified challenges such as remote management of interviewer productivity, low response rates, and rising survey costs. The findings will inform Qatar's mental health policymakers, and the strategies used to address these challenges offer valuable insights for researchers worldwide.
Clinical reappraisal of the composite international diagnostic interview version 3.3 in Qatar's National Mental Health Study
Authors: Khaled Salma M. , Amro Iman , Abdelkader Menatalla , Al Bahari Dalia , Al Shawwaf Mahmoud , Alabdulla Majid , Alhassan Ahmed , Ali Amal , Aly Sheeren , Amin Asmaa , Chiu Wai Tat , Currie James , El Fakki Hana , First Michael B. , Hassan Mohammed H. O. , Hijawi Zainab , Mohammed Rumaisa , Nofal Marwa , Salman Salma , Sampson Nancy A. , Woodruff Peter W. , Kessler Ronald C.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Lifetime DSM‐5 diagnoses generated by the lay‐administered Composite International Diagnostic Interview for DSM‐5 (CIDI) in the World Mental Health Qatar (WMHQ) study were compared to diagnoses based on blinded clinician‐administered reappraisal interviews.

Methods

Telephone follow‐up interviews used the non‐patient edition of the Structured Clinician Interview for DSM‐5 (SCID) oversampling respondents who screened positive for five diagnoses in the CIDI: major depressive episode, mania/hypomania, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and obsessive‐compulsive disorder. Concordance was also examined for a diagnoses of post‐traumatic stress disorder based on a short‐form versus full version of the PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5 (PCL‐5).

Results

Initial CIDI prevalence estimates differed significantly from the SCID for most diagnoses ( = 6.6–31.4, p = 0.010 < 0.001), but recalibration reduced most of these differences and led to consistent increases in individual‐level concordance (AU‐ROC) from 0.53–0.76 to 0.67–0.81. Recalibration of the short‐form PCL‐5 removed an initially significant difference in PTSD prevalence with the full PCL‐5 (from  = 610.5, p < 0.001 to  = 2.5, p = 0.110) while also increasing AU‐ROC from 0.76 to 0.81.

Conclusions

Recalibration resulted in valid diagnoses of common mental disorders in the Qatar National Mental Health Survey, but with inflated prevalence estimates for some disorders that need to be considered when interpreting results.
Alternating low‐rank tensor reconstruction for improved multiparametric mapping with cardiovascular MR Multitasking
Authors: Cao Tianle , Hu Zheyuan , Mao Xianglun , Chen Zihao , Kwan Alan C. , Xie Yibin , Berman Daniel S. , Li Debiao , Christodoulou Anthony G.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To develop a novel low‐rank tensor reconstruction approach leveraging the complete acquired data set to improve precision and repeatability of multiparametric mapping within the cardiovascular MR Multitasking framework.

Methods

A novel approach that alternated between estimation of temporal components and spatial components using the entire data set acquired (i.e., including navigator data and imaging data) was developed to improve reconstruction. The precision and repeatability of the proposed approach were evaluated on numerical simulations, 10 healthy subjects, and 10 cardiomyopathy patients at multiple scan times for 2D myocardial T1/T2 mapping with MR Multitasking and were compared with those of the previous navigator‐derived fixed‐basis approach.

Results

In numerical simulations, the proposed approach outperformed the previous fixed‐basis approach with lower T1 and T2 error against the ground truth at all scan times studied and showed better motion fidelity. In human subjects, the proposed approach showed no significantly different sharpness or T1/T2 measurement and significantly improved T1 precision by 20%–25%, T2 precision by 10%–15%, T1 repeatability by about 30%, and T2 repeatability by 25%–35% at 90‐s and 50‐s scan times The proposed approach at the 50‐s scan time also showed comparable results with that of the previous fixed‐basis approach at the 90‐s scan time.

Conclusion

The proposed approach improved precision and repeatability for quantitative imaging with MR Multitasking while maintaining comparable motion fidelity, T1/T2 measurement, and septum sharpness and had the potential for further reducing scan time from 90 s to 50 s.
Low‐rank reconstruction for simultaneous double half‐echo 23Na and undersampled 23Na multi‐quantum coherences MRI
Authors: Licht Christian , Reichert Simon , Bydder Mark , Zapp Jascha , Corella Shirley , Guye Maxime , Zöllner Frank G. , Schad Lothar R. , Rapacchi Stanislas
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To develop a new sequence to simultaneously acquire Cartesian sodium (23Na) MRI and accelerated Cartesian single (SQ) and triple quantum (TQ) sodium MRI of in vivo human brain at 7 T by leveraging two dedicated low‐rank reconstruction frameworks.

Theory and Methods

The Double Half‐Echo technique enables short echo time Cartesian 23Na MRI and acquires two k‐space halves, reconstructed by a low‐rank coupling constraint. Additionally, three‐dimensional (3D) 23Na Multi‐Quantum Coherences (MQC) MRI requires multi‐echo sampling paired with phase‐cycling, exhibiting a redundant multidimensional space. Simultaneous Autocalibrating and k‐Space Estimation (SAKE) were used to reconstruct highly undersampled 23Na MQC MRI. Reconstruction performance was assessed against five‐dimensional (5D) CS, evaluating structural similarity index (SSIM), root mean squared error (RMSE), signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), and quantification of tissue sodium concentration and TQ/SQ ratio in silico, in vitro, and in vivo.

Results

The proposed sequence enabled the simultaneous acquisition of fully sampled 23Na MRI while leveraging prospective undersampling for 23Na MQC MRI. SAKE improved TQ image reconstruction regarding SSIM by 6% and reduced RMSE by 35% compared to 5D CS in vivo. Thanks to prospective undersampling, the spatial resolution of 23Na MQC MRI was enhanced from mm3 to mm3 while reducing acquisition time from min to min.

Conclusion

The proposed sequence, coupled with low‐rank reconstructions, provides an efficient framework for comprehensive whole‐brain sodium MRI, combining TSC, T2*, and TQ/SQ ratio estimations. Additionally, low‐rank matrix completion enables the reconstruction of highly undersampled 23Na MQC MRI, allowing for accelerated acquisition or enhanced spatial resolution.
Unwrapping phase contrast MRI by iterative graph cuts
Authors: Berglund Johan , Liljeblad Mio , Baron Tomasz
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To develop and evaluate a phase unwrapping method for cine phase contrast MRI based on graph cuts.

Methods

A proposed Iterative Graph Cuts method was evaluated in 10 cardiac patients with two‐dimensional flow quantification which was repeated at low venc settings to provoke wrapping. The images were also unwrapped by a path‐following method (ROMEO), and a Laplacian‐based method (LP). Net flow was quantified using semi‐automatic vessel segmentation. High venc images were also wrapped retrospectively to asses the residual amount of wrapped voxels.

Results

The absolute net flow error after unwrapping at venc = 100 cm/s was 1.8 mL, which was 0.83 mL smaller than for LP. The repeatability error at high venc without unwrapping was 2.5 mL. The error at venc = 50 cm/s was 7.5 mL, which was 8.2 mL smaller than for ROMEO and 5.7 mL smaller than for LP. For retrospectively wrapped images with synthetic venc of 100/50/25 cm/s, the residual amount of wrapped voxels was 0.00/0.12/0.79%, which was 0.09/0.26/8.0 percentage points smaller than for LP. With synthetic venc of 25 cm/s, omitting magnitude information resulted in 3.2 percentage points more wrapped voxels, and only spatial/temporal unwrapping resulted in 4.6/21 percentage points more wrapped voxels compared to spatiotemporal unwrapping.

Conclusion

Iterative Graph Cuts enables unwrapping of cine phase contrast MRI with very small errors, except for at extreme blood velocities, with equal or better performance compared to ROMEO and LP. The use of magnitude information and spatiotemporal unwrapping is recommended.
Collagen degradation assessment with an in vitro rotator cuff tendinopathy model using multiparametric ultrashort‐TE magnetization transfer (UTE‐MT) imaging
Authors: Guo Tan , Song Yan , Tong Jinlian , Jiao Sheng , Shen Cheng , Wang Hong , Cui Ju , Dai Dapeng , Ma Jie , Chen Min
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess ultrashort‐TE magnetization transfer (UTE‐MT) imaging of collagen degradation using an in vitro model of rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Methods

Thirty‐six supraspinatus tendon specimens were divided into three groups and treated with 600 U collagenase (Group 1), 150 U collagenase (Group 2), and phosphate buffer saline (Group 3). UTE‐MT imaging was performed to assess changes in macromolecular fraction (MMF), macromolecule transverse relaxation time (T2m), water longitudinal relaxation rate constant (R1m), the magnetization exchange rate from the macromolecular to water pool (Rm0w) and from water to the macromolecular pool (Rm0m), and magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) at baseline and following digestion and their differences between groups. Biochemical and histological studies were conducted to determine the extent of collagen degradation. Correlation analyses were performed with MMF, T2m, R1m, Rm0w, Rm0m, and MTR, respectively. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate combinations of UTE‐MT parameters to predict collagen degradation.

Results

MMF, T2m, R1m, Rm0m, and MTR decreased after digestion. MMF (r = −0.842, p < 0.001), MTR (r = −0.78, p < 0.001), and Rm0m (r = −0.662, p < 0.001) were strongly negatively correlated with collagen degradation. The linear regression model of differences in MMF and Rm0m before and after digestion explained 68.9% of collagen degradation variation in the tendon. The model of postdigestion in MMF and T2m and the model of MTR explained 54.2% and 52.3% of collagen degradation variation, respectively.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the potential of UTE‐MT parameters for evaluation of supraspinatus tendinopathy.
Accelerated 3D multi‐echo spin‐echo sequence with a subspace constrained reconstruction for whole mouse brain T2 mapping
Authors: Trotier Aurélien J. , Corbin Nadège , Miraux Sylvain , Ribot Emeline J.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To accelerate whole‐brain quantitative mapping in preclinical imaging setting.

Methods

A three‐dimensional (3D) multi‐echo spin echo sequence was highly undersampled with a variable density Poisson distribution to reduce the acquisition time. Advanced iterative reconstruction based on linear subspace constraints was employed to recover high‐quality raw images. Different subspaces, generated using exponential or extended‐phase graph (EPG) simulations or from low‐resolution calibration images, were compared. The subspace dimension was investigated in terms of precision. The method was validated on a phantom containing a wide range of and was then applied to monitor metastasis growth in the mouse brain at 4.7T. Image quality and estimation were assessed for 3 acceleration factors (6/8/10).

Results

The EPG‐based dictionary gave robust estimations of a large range of . A subspace dimension of 6 was the best compromise between precision and image quality. Combining the subspace constrained reconstruction with a highly undersampled dataset enabled the acquisition of whole‐brain maps, the detection and the monitoring of metastasis growth of less than 500 .

Conclusion

Subspace‐based reconstruction is suitable for 3D mapping. This method can be used to reach an acceleration factor up to 8, corresponding to an acquisition time of 25 min for an isotropic 3D acquisition of 156 m on the mouse brain, used here for monitoring metastases growth.
A FEM/DEM adaptive remeshing strategy for brittle elastic failure initiation and propagation
Authors: Yahya Farouk , Hubert Cédric , Leconte Nicolas , Dubar Laurent
Published: May 2024

This article presents an adaptive remeshing strategy between the finite element method (FEM) and the discrete element method (DEM). To achieve this strategy, an edge‐to‐edge coupling method based on Lagrange multipliers has been set‐up to ensure the continuity of velocities at the interface. To switch from a computation initially purely FEM to a FEM‐DEM one, a field transfer method was required. In particular, a displacement field transfer method has been set‐up. The switching from a FEM subdomain to a DEM one is activated by a transition criterion. Each time a FEM subdomain is substituted by a DEM one, the DEM subdomain microscopic properties are set‐up with respect to the subdomain geometry and desired particle refinement. This is performed thanks to the linking to the so‐called “Cooker,” a tool distributed along with the GranOO Workbench. Two subdomain remeshing cases were dealt with: that of an initially FEM subdomain that is converted to DEM, and that of DEM subdomains which coalesce. A numerical test case shows that the dynamic remeshing method behaves as expected: FEM subdomains are substituted by DEM ones when the transition criterion is met, and DEM subdomains coalesce when required. The final numerical test case shows a good agreement with a crack propagation experiment of the literature, while a speedup of about 20 was observed when compared to pure DEM computation.
Daily experiences of non‐psychiatric nurses in acute psychiatric wards
Authors: Rangwaneni Mphedziseni Esther , Raliphaswa Ndidzulafhi Selina , Maluleke Mary , Masutha Thingahangwi Cecilia
Published: May 2024

Aim

To explore and describe the daily experiences of non‐psychiatric nurses working in selected acute psychiatric wards in South Africa.

Design

A qualitative explorative and descriptive study design was used.

Methods

Individual face‐to‐face semi‐structured interviews were used to gather data from fifteen non‐psychiatric nurses with a minimum of one month of experience working in acute psychiatric wards in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Data were analysed using eight Tech techniques. The study is reported following consolidation criteria for reporting qualitative research.

Results

Findings on non‐psychiatric nurses' daily experience revealed three themes: (1) Unsafe working environment, (2) Managing difficulties due to lack of skills and (3) Strategies to support non‐psychiatric nurses in acute psychiatric wards.

Findings suggested institutional and managerial interventions in the form of orientation, in‐service training and workshops and resource provision. Future studies should be done to develop a model for supporting non‐psychiatric nurses in Limpopo Province, South Africa's acute psychiatric wards.
Impact of trade and investment on income surge in Bangladesh: Evidence from trade liberalization regime
Authors: Maitra Biswajit , Hossain Tafajul , Chakraborty Moutushi , Ganguli Dhritiman
Published: May 2024

Trade and investment are crucial drivers of economic growth. Successful execution of trade and investment policy can elevate a developing country to a sustained growth path and make it self‐reliant. Bangladesh implemented a trade liberalization policy in the 1980s, deviating much from its conservative trade policy. This article assesses the impacts of trade, investment in physical as well as human capital, and a few trade policy variables on income surge for the liberalized regime. The econometric analysis finds that export, import, and domestic investment stimulate income. The impact of foreign investment is not conducive. Public spending on education also contributes to the income surge. Among the policy variables, trade openness and currency depreciation produce a beneficial impact. Population growth retards economic growth. The baseline results hold in the estimations involving several specifications of variables and testified as robust. The article views that a comprehensive approach to trade and investment policy would ensure the comparative advantage of trade and the well‐being of Bangladesh.
The psychological factors mediating/moderating the association between body‐image disturbance and depression: A systematic review
Authors: Wang Yiyi , Chen Yuqi , Lu Chenxuan , Kwan Angela T. H. , McIntyre Roger S. , Yang Fahui , Cao Bing
Published: May 2024

Available evidence demonstrates that individuals with body‐image disturbance (BID) are prone to suffer from depression. This systematic review provides, to our knowledge, the first synthesis of the psychological mechanism of the association between BID and depression. We conducted a thorough search of online databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO, for articles published up until February 2024. The final analysis comprised a total of 23 studies that focused on the mediating or moderating effects of psychological factors between depression and BID. This review identifies self‐esteem and social support as both mediators and moderators of the relationship between BID and depression, while perceived stress acted only as a mediator. High self‐esteem and strong social support as well as low levels of perceived stress may help individuals experience lower levels of BID, thereby contributing to a decreased likelihood of depression. Interventions aimed at increasing self‐esteem, developing strong support, and decreasing perceived stress may hold promise to reduce the risk of depression in those with BID.
Single‐cell proteomics by mass spectrometry: Advances and implications in cancer research
Authors: Tan Yong Chiang , Low Teck Yew , Lee Pey Yee , Lim Lay Cheng
Published: May 2024

Cancer harbours extensive proteomic heterogeneity. Inspired by the prior success of single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) in characterizing minute transcriptomics heterogeneity in cancer, researchers are now actively searching for information regarding the proteomics counterpart. Therefore recently, single‐cell proteomics by mass spectrometry (SCP) has rapidly developed into state‐of‐the‐art technology to cater the need. This review aims to summarize application of SCP in cancer research, while revealing current development progress of SCP technology. The review also aims to contribute ideas into research gaps and future directions, ultimately promoting the application of SCP in cancer research.
Enhancement of thermoelectric performance of thienoisoindigo based D‐A conjugated polymers through the incorporation of 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene as donor unit
Authors: Zhang Yuhang , Lin Ting , Gao Yifei , Xu Chao , Li Hui , Li Pengcheng , Gao Xiang , Liu Zhitian
Published: May 2024

With the good planarity of conjugated backbone and high charge carrier mobilities, thienoisoindigo (TIIG)‐based polymers show great potential in organic electronic devices. In this work, two TIIG‐based D‐A conjugated polymers (PTIIG‐3T and PTIIG‐2T‐EDOT) were designed and synthesized, which exhibit high lying highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy level and can be facilely doped by FeCl3. Compared with PTIIG‐3T, one thiophene unit in the donor building block is replaced by 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) in PTIIG‐2T‐EDOT, and PTIIG‐2T‐EDOT shows a higher HOMO level with slightly higher coplanarity than PTIIG‐3T, which induce an enhancement in electrical conductivity after oxidation doping. After proper doping, doped PTIIG‐2T‐EDOT film achieved a higher TE power factor of 17.9 μW m−1 K−2 than that of PTIIG‐3T due to its higher conductivity. The results indicate that TIIG unit is a promising building block for future high‐performance conjugated polymers for thermoelectric applications, and incorporation of the EDOT unit into D‐A conjugated polymers could be an effective way to develop high performance thermoelectric polymers.
Chain branching during the polycondensation of isophthalic aldehyde and 1,1′‐diacetylferrocene by the Claisen–Schmidt reaction
Authors: Dvorikova Raisa , Khrustalev Victor , Ionova Irina , Mezhuev Yaroslav
Published: May 2024

N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone‐soluble ferrocene‐containing polychalcones, which are promising as a platform for the formation of ferromagnetic coatings after pyrolysis in an inert atmosphere is synthesized through the polycondensation of isophthalic aldehyde and 1,1′‐diacetylferrocene by the Claisen–Schmidt reaction. The structure and the molecular weight distribution of the polychalcones is characterized by NMR, IR spectroscopy, and size exclusion chromatography. It is shown that the formation of polychalcones is accompanied by chain branching via the Michael reactions and the aldol‐croton condensation. The structure of the linear fragments of the polychalcone chains is simulated with a tailored low‐molecular model compound, that is 1,3‐bis(3‐ferrocenyl‐1‐propen‐2‐one)benzene, which is characterized by the NMR and IR spectroscopy as well as the X‐ray diffraction analysis. The obtained results indicate an increasing tendency for polychalcone chain branching with the temperature growth during the Claisen–Schmidt reaction. The weight loss and the increase in magnetization under the conditions of pyrolysis of polychalcones at different temperatures is studied. The assumptions regarding the possible mechanisms of thermal destruction of ferrocene‐containing macromolecules are put forward.
Synthesis, optical properties, and dual‐color halochromic fluorescence of novel π‐conjugated polymers bearing coumarin unit in the main chain
Authors: Kaneko Yuya , Wang Aohan
Published: May 2024

A series of novel π‐conjugated polymers bearing alternating coumarin and phenylene units in the main chain backbone was synthesized via Sonogashira coupling reaction. The red‐shifts in the absorption maxima of the polymers indicate the expansion of π‐conjugated system in the polymer main chains. These polymers exhibited strong green fluorescence in organic solvents. Clearly perceptible dual‐color halochromic fluorescence was confirmed for the polymers by the significantly reversible changes of emission color from green to blue during alkalization and acidification processes. The lactone ring opening and closing property in the coumarin molecule functioned as a controllable switch, broadening the applications of the coumarin‐based π‐conjugated polymers as acid–base responsive fluorescence materials.
Stereotactic body radiotherapy takes on Lung Oligometastases: Latest breakthroughs
Authors: Liu Xin , Wu Lei , Guo Tian , Huang Zhifeng , Chen Sen , Li ChenYang , Liu Qiufang , Wang Fenggang
Published: May 2024

Lung oligometastases represent an intermediate state of cancer dissemination between localized and widespread metastases. Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) has emerged as an effective treatment option, with an efficacy comparable to that of surgical resection. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the latest advancements and controversial issues regarding SBRT for lung oligometastases. It focuses on four crucial perspectives: efficacy of SBRT, optimal patient selection criteria, technological innovations, and synergistic effects of SBRT combined with systemic therapy. Relevant clinical trials investigating SBRT for lung oligometastases have been conducted, with median 1‐ and 5‐year local control rates of 90% and 79%, respectively. The origin of the primary tumor, size and number of lesions, and biomarker profiles were highlighted as pivotal considerations in patient selection. The precise dose delivery was enhanced using robotic SBRT and optimized dose fractionation schemes. Evidence suggests that dose escalation above 100 Gy biologically effective dose may improve tumor control. Combined immunotherapy and SBRT have demonstrated synergistic effects in prolonging progression‐free survival and overall survival. This review provides valuable insights into the precise treatment of oligometastatic lung diseases using SBRT. Further multicenter randomized trials are warranted to develop definitive patient selection criteria and optimize the integration with systemic therapies.
Quercetin prevented diabetic nephropathy by inhibiting renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis via the PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Liu Fang , Feng Qianqian , Yang Mengna , Yang Yichi , Nie Jiaqi , Wang Suqing
Published: May 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the most common and serious complication of diabetes, posing a significant threat to human health. Currently, safe and effective preventive strategies for DN are lacking. The study aimed to explore the preventive effect and the underlying mechanism of quercetin against DN. In the in vivo experiments, we established a mouse model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) induced by a combination of high‐fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) to explore the preventive effect of quercetin on DN and its protective role against renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis. Subsequently, in vitro experiments using human tubular epithelial cells (HK‐2 cells) were conducted to further validate the protective effects of quercetin on renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis. Additionally, we employed RNA sequencing analysis (RNA‐seq) and network pharmacology analysis to comprehensively elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved. In vivo, we observed a significant increase in the ratio of urinary microalbumin to creatinine in diabetic mice compared to control mice, accompanied by the activation of renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis. Remarkably, all of these changes were reversed after quercetin treatment. In vitro, high‐glucose‐induced apoptosis in HK‐2 cells was significantly attenuated by quercetin. Subsequent RNA sequencing analysis and network pharmacology analysis revealed that quercetin was most likely to inhibit high‐glucose‐induced HK‐2 cell apoptosis through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Western Blotting results further demonstrated that quercetin could inhibit the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in HK‐2 cells induced by high glucose. Our results supported that quercetin could prevent DN by inhibiting tubular epithelial cell apoptosis via the PI3K/AKT pathway. Quercetin might be a promising candidate for the prevention of DN.
Effects of sulfur‐ and Fe‐deficient defects on the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide H2O2 on pyrite surface
Authors: Feng Xinglong , Li Yuqiong , Luo Baolong , Liu Yingchao , Chen Jianhua
Published: May 2024

There is still a lack of research on the effect of the S and Fe vacancy on the adsorption mechanism of peroxide (H2O2) on the pyrite surface. In this work, the adsorption of H2O2 molecules on the perfect and defective pyrite surface is simulated based on density functional theory (DFT). The results indicated that the adsorption energy of H2O2 molecules on the S‐vacancy surface is relatively lower than that on the perfect surface and dissociative adsorption entirely occurs, while the adsorption behavior of H2O2 molecules on the S‐rich pyrite surface has not occurred. When the H2O2 molecules are adsorbed on the Fe‐rich pyrite surface, two products appear, one with two OH− species and the other with an H2O molecule and an O atom. The analysis of the transition state (TS) found that the dissociation of the H2O2 molecule producing two OH− species that bond with two Fe atoms is more likely to occur. In addition, based on the coordination chemistry, it is demonstrated that Fe atoms are more reactive around an S vacancy than on a perfect surface.
Concentrically expanded reversed halo sign caused by nivolumab‐related pneumonia
Authors: Tokuyasu Hirokazu , Sato Yoshitoshi , Sueda Yuriko , Sakai Hiromitsu , Esumi Chika , Yamasaki Akira
Published: May 2024

Key message

Among immune‐related adverse events, pneumonitis is relatively uncommon, and nivolumab‐related pneumonitis may present with a reversed halo sign.
Habitat persistency analysis with HEM‐PEAK: A novel approach for the assessment of hydropeaking impacts and mitigation measure design
Authors: Hauer C. , Unfer G. , Holzapfel P. , Tritthart M.
Published: May 2024

Hydropeaking is one of the most severe pressures of hydropower on aquatic ecosystems. The discharge fluctuations due to turbine operations cause frequent shifts in hydraulic habitat characteristics such as flow velocity and water depth. Those rapid changes on a daily or sub daily basis, however, are beyond the possibilities of evolutionary adaptations of aquatic organisms, especially for fish in their sensitive early life stages. Thus, one central aim in terms of the evaluation of hydropeaking impacts or the design of mitigation measures is the analysis or establishment of hydraulically stable habitat conditions. This study presents a novel habitat assessment tool to quantify hydraulically stable habitat conditions in the form of a persistency of suitable habitats in hydropeaking reaches. The HEM‐PEAK tool determines areas that contain equal ranges of depth‐averaged flow velocity and water depth for both base flow and peak flow in three categories. Those areas also exclude dewatering sites, which have to be seen as ‘residual risk for stranding’. In the present study, the model was used to evaluate the YOY habitats of brown trout and grayling. The model was tested for 14 hydropeaking reaches to evaluate the quantity of habitat persistency for different morphological characteristics, such as straight, winding, alternating gravel bars and bifurcation reaches. The findings reveal that there is no relationship between hydraulically stable habitat conditions with reach scale bed slope or the magnitude of dewatering areas. However, the changes in specific discharge in relation to bankfull width could be negatively related to the magnitude of hydraulically stable habitat conditions independent of the morphological type. This relationship is minor for summer scenarios compared to spring, as the initial habitat quality during the increased base flow conditions is already limiting the availability of suitable habitats which might have persistency during peak flow. In detail, several self‐forming bars like point bars and artificial structures like groins and coarse rip‐rap could be determined, which could be explicitly addressed in terms of mitigation measure design based on the application of the HEM‐PEAK tool.
Value‐centric analysis of user adoption for sustainable urban micro‐mobility transportation through shared e‐scooter services
Authors: Çallı Levent , Çallı Büşra Alma
Published: May 2024

Micro‐mobility services, which are considered a sustainable alternative to traditional transportation modes, have gained substantial popularity due to advancements in mobile technology. As one of those modes of transportation, shared e‐scooter services have encouraged several startups in urban areas, allowing them to reach massive numbers of consumers in a highly competitive environment. This study aims to explore gains and barriers that affect the intention of consumers to use shared e‐scooter services, all within the framework of sustainability‐driven considerations. The Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) Algorithm was used to analyse 24.798 reviews from the Google Play Store, uncovering eight topics. Those topics were used to discover customer value perceptions in the shared e‐scooter context and compare them with the related literature on perceived value. Besides, their impact on user ratings on the mobile application platform was measured using machine learning algorithms. The study's findings are expected to contribute to developing regulations for shared e‐scooter services, which have gained popularity as an eco‐friendly mode of transportation sustainability in urban areas by introducing a novel perspective.