bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An alcohol extract prepared from the male flower of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. promotes synoviocyte apoptosis and ameliorates bone destruction in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wang Jian-Ying , Wang Hao , Chen Xiao-Yun , Zhang Lei , Yuan Ying
Published: November 2021

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease dominated by synovial hyperplasia and bone destruction. The male flower of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. (EF) has been shown to exert effects on the inflammation caused by RA. However, how EF affects synoviocyte apoptosis and bone destruction on RA have not been investigated thoroughly. The effects of EF on apoptosis of human fibroblast-like synoviocytes-rheumatoid arthritis (HFLS-RA) cells, osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells, and bone destruction in a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model in rats were explored.

Methods

First, the main components of EF were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography. In vitro, we investigated the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of EF on HFLS-RA cells by immunofluorescence assays, flow cytometry, real-time reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and western blotting; we also investigated how EF influenced the differentiation of RAW264.7 cells into osteoclasts. In vivo, we used a rat model of CIA to investigate the effects of EF on anti-arthritis activity, toe swelling, Arthritis Score, serum levels of metabolic bone factors, and pathologic conditions. Micro-computed tomography was used to scan ankle joints. mRNA and protein expression of factors related to the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway were determined by RT-qPCR and western blotting, respectively.

Results

EF inhibited synoviocyte proliferation and promoted apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. EF inhibited osteoclast differentiation by inhibiting activation of the NF-κB pathway. EF reduced articular inflammation in CIA rats, inhibited the expression of pro-angiogenic factors, and delayed the destruction of articular cartilage and bone. Our data indicated that EF acted via a mechanism related to bone metabolism induced by the NF-κB pathway.

Conclusions

EF exerts a potential therapeutic effect upon RA. Our research will help to elucidate the potential pharmacologic mechanisms associated with the beneficial effects of EF, and provide an experimental basis for EF application in clinical treatments.

Graphical Abstract
Characterization of mitochondrial DNA quantity and quality in the human aged and Alzheimer’s disease brain
Authors: Klein Hans-Ulrich , Trumpff Caroline , Yang Hyun-Sik , Lee Annie J. , Picard Martin , Bennett David A. , De Jager Philip L.
Published: November 2021

Background

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a feature of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Changes in the mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and increased mitochondrial DNA mutation burden have both been associated with neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline. This study aims to systematically identify which common brain pathologies in the aged human brain are associated with mitochondrial recalibrations and to disentangle the relationship between these pathologies, mtDNAcn, mtDNA heteroplasmy, aging, neuronal loss, and cognitive function.

Methods

Whole-genome sequencing data from n = 1361 human brain samples from 5 different regions were used to quantify mtDNAcn as well as heteroplasmic mtDNA point mutations and small indels. Brain samples were assessed for 10 common pathologies. Annual cognitive test results were used to assess cognitive function proximal to death. For a subset of samples, neuronal proportions were estimated from RNA-seq profiles, and mass spectrometry was used to quantify the mitochondrial protein content of the tissue.

Results

mtDNAcn was 7–14% lower in AD relative to control participants. When accounting for all 10 common neuropathologies, only tau was significantly associated with lower mtDNAcn in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. In the posterior cingulate cortex, TDP-43 pathology demonstrated a distinct association with mtDNAcn. No changes were observed in the cerebellum, which is affected late by pathologies. Neither age nor gender was associated with mtDNAcn in the studied brain regions when adjusting for pathologies. Mitochondrial content and mtDNAcn independently explained variance in cognitive function unaccounted by pathologies, implicating complex mitochondrial recalibrations in cognitive decline. In contrast, mtDNA heteroplasmy levels increased by 1.5% per year of life in the cortical regions, but displayed no association with any of the pathologies or cognitive function.

Conclusions

We studied mtDNA quantity and quality in relation to mixed pathologies of aging and showed that tau and not amyloid-β is primarily associated with reduced mtDNAcn. In the posterior cingulate cortex, the association of TDP-43 with low mtDNAcn points to a vulnerability of this region in limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy. While we found low mtDNAcn in brain regions affected by pathologies, the absence of associations with mtDNA heteroplasmy burden indicates that mtDNA point mutations and small indels are unlikely to be involved in the pathogenesis of late-onset neurodegenerative diseases.
The promise of microRNA-based therapies in Alzheimer’s disease: challenges and perspectives
Authors: Walgrave Hannah , Zhou Lujia , De Strooper Bart , Salta Evgenia
Published: November 2021

Multi-pathway approaches for the treatment of complex polygenic disorders are emerging as alternatives to classical monotarget therapies and microRNAs are of particular interest in that regard. MicroRNA research has come a long way from their initial discovery to the cumulative appreciation of their regulatory potential in healthy and diseased brain. However, systematic interrogation of putative therapeutic or toxic effects of microRNAs in (models of) Alzheimer’s disease is currently missing and fundamental research findings are yet to be translated into clinical applications. Here, we review the literature to summarize the knowledge on microRNA regulation in Alzheimer’s pathophysiology and to critically discuss whether and to what extent these increasing insights can be exploited for the development of microRNA-based therapeutics in the clinic.
Development of colonic transit time and ultrasound imaging tools as objective indicators for assessing abnormal defecation associated with food intake: a narrative review based on previous scientific knowledge
Authors: Okawa Yohei
Published: November 2021

Background

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) involve chronic or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms. Laboratory tests show no organic lesions, and the symptoms are due to dysfunction. The most typical FGID is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In IBS patients, defecation disorders are common and have adverse effects on daily life. The proper evaluation and analysis of colonic transit are important for the management of defecation disorders in IBS patients. In addition, dietary intake and lifestyle affect colonic transit. An accurate assessment of such factors can guide management, leading to improvements in colonic transit and the resolution of defecation disorders.

Main topic

The Rome IV diagnostic criteria for IBS are based on subjective symptoms, which must be communicated and explained by the patient, limiting their application. Colonic transit time and ultrasonography are objective tools that can be used to diagnose IBS. In particular, previous studies used colonic transit to accurately distinguish between constipation and normal stool passage and to assess delayed gastrointestinal motility. Diet and lifestyle modifications can improve colonic transit and ameliorate bowel dysfunction.

Conclusion

Colonic transit can be improved by modifying lifestyle factors. Defecation disorders in IBS patients may be resolved by focusing on such factors. In the future, methods of visualizing defecation disorders due to impaired gastrointestinal motility and objective indicators of the associated abdominal symptoms need to be investigated.
Estimating the number of children in households with substance use disorders in Germany
Authors: Kraus Ludwig , Uhl Alfred , Atzendorf Josefine , Seitz Nicki-Nils
Published: November 2021

Background

Parental substance misuse is reported to endanger the health and psychological development of children and adolescents. The aim of the present study was to address conceptual and methodological problems in estimating the number of children affected by parental substance misuse (CaPSM) and offer a novel approach based on survey data.

Methods

Data came from the 2018 German Epidemiological Survey of Substance Abuse (ESA) among 18- to 64-year-olds (n = 9267) and from population statistics. DSM-IV diagnostic criteria were used to assess substance use disorder (SUD) related to tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, cocaine or amphetamine. Based on the number of household members, the number of children below age 18 years and the information on SUD status of the respondent living in this household, the number of children currently living in households with at least one member with SUD was estimated.

Results

In 2018, there were 13,597,428 children younger than 18 years living in Germany. Of these, 6.9–12.3% (935,522–1,673,103) were estimated to currently live in households where at least one adult had a tobacco use disorder, 5.1–9.2% (688,111–1,257,345) in households where at least one adult had an alcohol use disorder and 0.6–1.2% (87,817–158,401) in households where at least one adult had a disorder related to the use of illicit drugs. The total number of children currently living with SUD adults in their household was estimated at 11.2–20.2% (1,521,495–2,751,796).

Conclusions

Available estimates are difficult to interpret and to compare due to a lack of clear case definitions and methodological approaches with various biases and limitations. Future estimates need to provide precise case definitions and standard approaches.
Prenatal diagnosis of complete paternal uniparental isodisomy for chromosome 3: a case report
Authors: Bu Xiufen , Li Xu , Zhou Shihao , Shi Liangcheng , Jiang Xuanyu , Peng Can , Li Hongyu , He Jun
Published: November 2021

Background

Uniparental disomy (UPD) is defined as an inheritance of two chromosomes from only one of the parents with no representative copy from the other. Paternal-origin UPD of chromosome 3 is a very rare condition, with only five cases of paternal UPD(3) reported.

Case presentation

Here, we report a prenatal case that is only the second confirmed paternal UPD(3) reported with no apparent disease phenotype. The fetus had a normal karyotype and normal ultrasound features throughout gestation. Copy neutral regions of homozygosity on chromosome 3 were identified by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. Subsequent SNP array data of parent–child trios showed that the fetus carried complete paternal uniparental isodisomy (isoUPD) of chromosome 3. The parents decided to continue with the pregnancy after genetic counseling, and the neonate had normal physical findings at birth and showed normal development after 1.5 years.

Conclusions

These findings provided further evidence to confirm that there were no important imprinted genes on paternal chromosome 3 that caused serious diseases and a reference for the prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling of UPD(3) in the future.
Contradictory roles of lipid metabolism in immune response within the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Yu Weina , Lei Qingyang , Yang Li , Qin Guohui , Liu Shasha , Wang Dan , Ping Yu , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2021

Complex interactions between the immune system and tumor cells exist throughout the initiation and development of cancer. Although the immune system eliminates malignantly transformed cells in the early stage, surviving tumor cells evade host immune defense through various methods and even reprogram the anti-tumor immune response to a pro-tumor phenotype to obtain unlimited growth and metastasis. The high proliferation rate of tumor cells increases the demand for local nutrients and oxygen. Poorly organized vessels can barely satisfy this requirement, which results in an acidic, hypoxic, and glucose-deficient tumor microenvironment. As a result, lipids in the tumor microenvironment are activated and utilized as a primary source of energy and critical regulators in both tumor cells and related immune cells. However, the exact role of lipid metabolism reprogramming in tumor immune response remains unclear. A comprehensive understanding of lipid metabolism dysfunction in the tumor microenvironment and its dual effects on the immune response is critical for mapping the detailed landscape of tumor immunology and developing specific treatments for cancer patients. In this review, we have focused on the dysregulation of lipid metabolism in the tumor microenvironment and have discussed its contradictory roles in the tumor immune response. In addition, we have summarized the current therapeutic strategies targeting lipid metabolism in tumor immunotherapy. This review provides a comprehensive summary of lipid metabolism in the tumor immune response.
Correction to: Apatinib triggers autophagic and apoptotic cell death via VEGFR2/STAT3/PD-L1 and ROS/Nrf2/p62 signaling in lung cancer
Authors: Xie Chunfeng , Zhou Xu , Liang Chunhua , Li Xiaoting , Ge Miaomiao , Chen Yue , Yin Juan , Zhu Jianyun , Zhong Caiyun
Published: November 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Chronic respiratory diseases other than asthma in children: the COVID-19 tsunami
Authors: Di Cicco Maria , Tozzi Maria Giulia , Ragazzo Vincenzo , Peroni Diego , Kantar Ahmad
Published: November 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects all components of the respiratory system, including the neuromuscular breathing apparatus, conducting and respiratory airways, pulmonary vascular endothelium, and pulmonary blood flow. In contrast to other respiratory viruses, children have less severe symptoms when infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). A minority of children experience a post-infectious inflammatory syndrome, the pathology and long-term outcomes of which are poorly understood. The reason for the lower burden of symptomatic disease in children is not yet clear, but several pathophysiological characteristics are postulated. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has brought distinct challenges to the care of children globally. Proper recommendations have been proposed for a range of non-asthmatic respiratory disorders in children, including primary ciliary dyskinesia and cystic fibrosis. These recommendations involve the continuation of the treatment during this period and ways to maintain stability. School closures, loss of follow-up visit attendance, and loss of other protective systems for children are the indirect outcomes of measures to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, COVID-19 has reshaped the delivery of respiratory care in children, with non-urgent and elective procedures being postponed, and distancing imperatives have led to rapid scaling of telemedicine. The pandemic has seen an unprecedented reorientation in clinical trial research towards COVID-19 and a disruption in other trials worldwide, which will have long-lasting effects on medical science. In this narrative review, we sought to outline the most recent findings on the direct and indirect effects of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on pediatric respiratory chronic diseases other than asthma, by critically revising the most recent literature on the subject.
Compounded glycopyrrolate is a compelling choice for drooling children: five years of facility experience
Authors: Zanon Davide , Tumminelli Cristina , Galimberti Anna Maria Chiara , Torelli Lucio , Maestro Alessandra , Barbi Egidio , Maximova Natalia
Published: November 2021

Background

Describe the efficacy of a galenic glycopyrrolate formulation and its impact on patients with sialorrhea Quality of Life (QoL), including costs analysis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective observational study on 21 patients who received a custom-formulated galenic glycopyrrolate syrup for sialorrhea for an average period of 14.3 months. We analyzed the telephone interviews with elaborated and validated questionnaires and the therapy costs comparing the brand marketed drug with the galenic formulation.

Results

Overall, 16 out of 21 patients (76.2%) reported a significant improvement in sialorrhea and QoL. In 14 subjects (66.7%), there was a remarkable decrease in the drooling severity; 10 individuals (47.6%) reported a reduction in drooling frequency. Nine patients experienced at least one adverse effect of glycopyrrolate therapy, and three of them stopped the treatment. No severe side effects were observed. The galenic drug significantly reduced costs for patients.

Conclusions

An oral glycopyrrolate solution easily administered to children with brain injuries is not commercially available in many European countries. This study demonstrates the efficacy of a compounded glycopyrrolate syrup on drooling severity, frequency and ensures a better QoL in patients and their caregivers.
The negative effects of new screens on the cognitive functions of young children require new recommendations
Authors: Eric Osika
Published: November 2021

Television studies have shown that some negative effects of screens could depend on exposure time, but more importantly on the characteristics of the child, the type of content viewed, and the context in which it is viewed. Studies on newer screens show that these factors are still valid but new ones now play a negative role: portable screens increase the duration of exposure and lowered the age at which exposure begins. More worryingly, new screen persuasive designs and dark patterns largely used incite more frequent use, attracting the attention of children and parents, resultantly interfering deeply in parent/child relationships. In this text we suggest that current academic recommendations have to be more broadly shared but also that new recommendations are needed: especially to advise parents not to let their screen interactions compete with real interactions with their child which are the core of learnings (especially language) and emotional regulations but also of their security.
Psychoeducation focused on family accommodation: a practical intervention for parents of children and adolescents with obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Demaria Francesco , Pontillo Maria , Tata Maria Cristina , Gargiullo Prisca , Mancini Francesco , Vicari Stefano
Published: November 2021

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder that is frequently diagnosed in children and adolescents. In pediatric OCD, family plays an important role in the development and maintenance of the disease. In this relationship, both genetic and behavioral factors, such as parental modeling and family accommodation, are significant. Parental modeling concerns the daily enactment of dysfunctional behavioral patterns by a parent with OCD, which may influence children. Family accommodation, in contrast, describes the direct participation of parents in their child’s compulsive rituals, by modifying daily routines or by facilitating avoidance of OCD triggers, to decrease the child’s distress and time spent executing compulsions. Approximately 80–90% of the relatives of OCD patients actively participate in patients’ rituals. The literature demonstrates that a high level of family accommodation is associated with OCD symptom severity, reduced response to cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT), and a higher risk of therapy dropout.

Despite this, no studies have aimed at delineating practical guidance for psychotherapists to support parents in reducing family accommodation.

The main aim of this paper is to propose a psychoeducation intervention focused on cognitive-behavioral strategies to help families to manage their child’s OCD behaviors without enacting dysfunctional family accommodation behaviors in order to support their child’s successful therapy.
Efficacy of abdomen-rubbing qigong exercise for chronic insomnia: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guan Chong , Cheng Ziji , Xie Fangfang , Wang Ruiping , Zhang Jing , Yao Fei , Fang Min
Published: November 2021

Background

Insomnia is a common sleeping disorder which affects the quality of life which can bring harms to physical and mental health of human beings and even economic development. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays an outstanding role in treating chronic diseases and alleviating their symptoms. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess the treatment efficacy in patients with insomnia treated with abdomen-rubbing qigong exercise (ARQE). In addition, the brain function changes of patients will be explored by resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI).

Method/design

This trial is a randomized, single-blind, controlled study planned to transpire between July 1, 2020, and July 31, 2021. A sample size of 114 participants (57 per group) with chronic insomnia will be randomly assigned to receive ARQE or CBTI for 8 weeks. The study duration will be 13 weeks, including a 1-week screening period, 8 weeks of intervention, and another 4 weeks of follow-up. The primary outcome is the Pittsburgh sleep quality index scores. Secondary outcomes include insomnia severity index, gastrointestinal symptom rating scale, the Hamilton Depression Scale, and rs-fMRI scan. The adverse events will be in control.

Discussion

The results of this study will help to clarify the efficacy of ARQE in the treatment of insomnia and try to use rs-fMRI technology to explore the brain function changes of ARQE in improving sleep quality in patients with insomnia disorder. If the results are as expected, this study will provide high-quality evidence for the treatment of insomnia with ARQE.

Trial registration

China Clinical Registration Agency ChiCTR1900028009. Registered on 19 December 2019.
Adding muscle power exercises to a strength training program for people with patellofemoral pain: protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: de Vasconcelos Gabriela Souza , Nunes Guilherme Silva , Barton Christian John , Munhoz Raquel Fantinelli , da Silva Maria Eduarda Chinotti Batista , Pisani Giulia Keppe , Luz Bruna Calazans , Serrão Fábio Viadanna
Published: November 2021

Background

Strong evidence supports the proximal combined with quadriceps strengthening for patellofemoral pain (PFP) rehabilitation. However, most reported rehabilitation programs do not follow specific exercise prescription recommendations or do not provide adequate details for replication in clinical practice. Furthermore, people with PFP have power deficits in hip and knee muscles and it remains unknown whether the addition of power exercises would result in superior or more consistent outcomes. Therefore, this study is designed to verify whether the benefits of a rehabilitation program addressing proximal and knee muscles comprising power and strength exercises are greater than those of a program consisting of strength exercises only.

Method

This study will be a randomized controlled trial that will be conducted at university facilities. A minimum of 74 people with PFP between the ages of 18 and 45 years will be included. The experimental group will engage in a 12-week resistance training program focusing on proximal and knee muscles using power and strength exercises. The control group will engage in a 12-week resistance training program focusing on proximal and knee muscles using strength exercises only. Primary outcomes will be pain intensity and physical function; and secondary outcomes will be kinesiophobia, self-reported improvement, quality of life, peak hip and knee torque, and hip and knee rate of force development. The primary outcomes will be evaluated at baseline, and after 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. The secondary outcomes will be evaluated at baseline and immediately after the interventions. Therapists and participants will not be blinded to group allocation.

Discussion

This randomized clinical trial will investigate if adding power exercises to a progressive resistance training may lead to more consistent outcomes for PFP rehabilitation. The study will provide additional knowledge to support rehabilitation programs for people with PFP.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT 03985254. Registered on 26 August 2019.
Meeting report: South African Medical Research Council Standard of Care in Clinical Research in Low- And Middle-Income Settings Summit, November 2017
Authors: Miner Maurine D. , Bekker Linda-Gail , Kredo Tamara , Bhagwandin Niresh , Corey Lawrence , Gray Glenda E.
Published: November 2021

A cornerstone of HIV prevention clinical trials is providing a combination prevention package to all trial participants. The elements included in that standard of care (SoC) package evolve as new prevention modalities are developed. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) was recommended by the World Health Organization for persons at high risk of acquiring HIV, but not all countries immediately adopted those recommendations. The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) convened a summit to discuss issues relating to SoC and PrEP in HIV prevention clinical trials taking place in lower- to middle-income countries (LMIC). Policymakers, regulators, ethicists, experts in law, researchers, representatives of advocacy groups, and the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) presented a framework within which SoC principles could be articulated. A group of subject matter experts presented on the regulatory, ethical, scientific, and historic framework of SoC in clinical trials, focusing on PrEP in South Africa. Summit participants discussed how and when to include new HIV treatment and prevention practices into existing clinical guidelines and trial protocols, as well as the opportunities for and challenges to scaling up interventions. The summit addressed challenges to PrEP provision, such as inconsistent efficacy amongst different populations and various biological, virological, and immunological explanations for this heterogeneity. Advocates and community members propagated the urgent need for accessible interventions that could avert HIV infection. The meeting recommended supporting access to PrEP in HIV prevention trials by (1) developing PrEP access plans for HIV vaccine trials, (2) creating a PrEP fund that would supply PrEP to sites conducting HIV prevention trials via a central procurement mechanism, and (3) supporting the safety monitoring of PrEP. This report summarizes the presentations and discussions from the summit in order to highlight the importance of SoC in HIV prevention clinical trials.
Chromium-based metal organic framework for pipette tip micro-solid phase extraction: an effective approach for determination of methyl and propyl parabens in wastewater and shampoo samples
Authors: Kaykhaii Massoud , Hashemi Sayyed Hossein , Andarz Fariba , Piri Amin , Sargazi Ghasem
Published: November 2021

Background

A chromium-based metal organic framework was synthesized and employed as an efficient sorbent for pipette tip micro-solid phase extraction and preconcentration of parabens from wastewater and shampoo samples up to sub-ppb level before their spectrophotometric analysis.

Results

Factors affecting preconcentration including volume and type of solvent, amount of sorbent, number of extraction, and volume and pH of samples were optimized employing one-variable-at-a-time and response surface methodology. Obtained analytical characteristics of the method proves its usefulness for analysis of real samples. Linear range of the method for parabens was 1.0–200.0 μg/L. Detection limit of the protocol was 0.24 µg/L for propyl paraben and 0.25 µg/L for methyl paraben. Reproducibility of the protocol defined as % RSD was better than 5.78%. Synthesized adsorbent can be re-used for at least 20 extractions.

Conclusion

The method showed a good detection limit and precision for determination of methyl- and propyl-paraben in wastewater and shampoo samples.
Effect of mast cell stabilization on angiogenesis in primary and secondary experimental Trichinella spiralis infection
Authors: EL-Dardiry Marwa A. , Abdel-Aal Amany A. , Abdeltawab Magda S. A. , El-Sherbini Mona , Hassan Marwa A. , Abdel-Aal Asmaa A. , Badawi Manal , Anis Shady E. , Khaled Bahaa-Eldin A. , Al-Antably Abeer S.
Published: November 2021

Background

Mast cells are known to affect the primary and secondary immune responses against parasites, and this effect is partially mediated through the release of pro-angiogenic mediators. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of the mast cell stabilizer (MCS), ketotifen, with and without albendazole, an anti-parasitic prescription medicine, on the inflammatory response against Trichinella spiralis, with the overall aim to investigate its effect on angiogenesis accompanying nurse cell formation.

Methods

The effect of ketotifen and albendazole was explored in eight groups of female BALB/c mice. Four groups were sensitized with a small dose of T. spiralis larvae. The drug regimen was then applied to both sensitized (challenged) and non-sensitized mice. The parasite load was assessed by histopathological examination of the small intestine and muscle tissue, and angiogenesis was assessed by immunohistochemistry to determine the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

Results

Sensitized mice showed a significantly lower parasite load and a more pronounced inflammatory response than mice receiving a single infective dose of T. spiralis larvae. All treated groups showed a significant reduction in parasite count compared to the control groups (groups IAa and IBa), reaching approximately an 98.8% reduction in adult parasite count in the sensitized group treated with albendazole (groups IIAb and IIBb). MCS significantly decreased the parasite count during both the intestinal or muscular phases, reduced tissue inflammation, and decreased local VEGF expression, both in the non-sensitized and sensitized groups.

Conclusion

Sensitization with a low dose of T. spiralis larvae was found to confer a partial protective immunity against re-infection and to positively affect the study outcomes, thus underlining the importance of vaccination, but after extensive studies. The anti-angiogenic effect of MCS protects against larval encystation during the muscle phase. The anti-angiogenic potential of albendazole suggests that the action of this anti-helminthic during trichinellosis is not confined to structural damage to the parasite cuticle but includes an effect on host immunopathological response.

Graphical Abstract
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Model and algorithm of innovation performance evaluation for coordination of supply and demand based on wireless sensor network
Authors: Zhao Ye , Li Beiwei
Published: November 2021

In recent years, with the continuous development and progress of wireless communication and sensors, people's production and life have also undergone tremendous changes. This article aims to apply wireless sensor networks to the construction of a supply–demand coordination innovation performance evaluation model, in order to improve its influence and application scope in real life. This paper deeply researches the architecture and node organization structure of wireless sensor network, and strengthens its theoretical foundation in the application of performance evaluation model. This paper designs performance evaluation indicators and compares performance evaluation methods at home and abroad based on the evaluation indicators, compares and analyzes the factor analysis method, fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method, comprehensive index evaluation method, etc., draws the advantages and disadvantages of each method, and uses them reasonably. The performance evaluation model constructed in this paper adopts the production function method and the analytic hierarchy process. According to the principles of scientificity, feasibility, and economy, the performance indicators for evaluating the balance of supply and demand are screened out, and score evaluation and comparison of each indicator are carried out. Finally, this paper analyzes the corporate performance evaluation index composition, model regression, sensor performance and performance evaluation scores, etc., and has a comprehensive application analysis of the model constructed in this paper. As can be seen from the overall score we selected five companies, enterprises composite score is 83.574, ranking first, followed by a score of 78.421.
Efficient binaural rendering of spherical microphone array data by linear filtering
Authors: Arend Johannes M. , Lübeck Tim , Pörschmann Christoph
Published: November 2021

High-quality rendering of spatial sound fields in real-time is becoming increasingly important with the steadily growing interest in virtual and augmented reality technologies. Typically, a spherical microphone array (SMA) is used to capture a spatial sound field. The captured sound field can be reproduced over headphones in real-time using binaural rendering, virtually placing a single listener in the sound field. Common methods for binaural rendering first spatially encode the sound field by transforming it to the spherical harmonics domain and then decode the sound field binaurally by combining it with head-related transfer functions (HRTFs). However, these rendering methods are computationally demanding, especially for high-order SMAs, and require implementing quite sophisticated real-time signal processing. This paper presents a computationally more efficient method for real-time binaural rendering of SMA signals by linear filtering. The proposed method allows representing any common rendering chain as a set of precomputed finite impulse response filters, which are then applied to the SMA signals in real-time using fast convolution to produce the binaural signals. Results of the technical evaluation show that the presented approach is equivalent to conventional rendering methods while being computationally less demanding and easier to implement using any real-time convolution system. However, the lower computational complexity goes along with lower flexibility. On the one hand, encoding and decoding are no longer decoupled, and on the other hand, sound field transformations in the SH domain can no longer be performed. Consequently, in the proposed method, a filter set must be precomputed and stored for each possible head orientation of the listener, leading to higher memory requirements than the conventional methods. As such, the approach is particularly well suited for efficient real-time binaural rendering of SMA signals in a fixed setup where usually a limited range of head orientations is sufficient, such as live concert streaming or VR teleconferencing.
Duality theorems for nondifferentiable semi-infinite interval-valued optimization problems with vanishing constraints
Authors: Wang Haijun , Wang Huihui
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we study the duality theorems of a nondifferentiable semi-infinite interval-valued optimization problem with vanishing constraints (IOPVC). By constructing the Wolfe and Mond–Weir type dual models, we give the weak duality, strong duality, converse duality, restricted converse duality, and strict converse duality theorems between IOPVC and its corresponding dual models under the assumptions of generalized convexity.
Further Spitzer’s law for widely orthant dependent random variables
Authors: Chen Pingyan , Luo Jingjing , Sung Soo Hak
Published: November 2021

The Spitzer’s law is obtained for the maximum partial sums of widely orthant dependent random variables under more optimal moment conditions.
New discussion on nonlocal controllability for fractional evolution system of order $1 < r < 2$
Authors: Mohan Raja M. , Vijayakumar Velusamy , Shukla Anurag , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Rezapour Shahram
Published: November 2021

In this manuscript, we deal with the nonlocal controllability results for the fractional evolution system of $1< r<2$
1
<
r
<
2
in a Banach space. The main results of this article are tested by using fractional calculations, the measure of noncompactness, cosine families, Mainardi’s Wright-type function, and fixed point techniques. First, we investigate the controllability results of a mild solution for the fractional evolution system with nonlocal conditions using the Mönch fixed point theorem. Furthermore, we develop the nonlocal controllability results for fractional integrodifferential evolution system by applying the Banach fixed point theorem. Finally, an application is presented for drawing the theory of the main results.
Well-posed conditions on a class of fractional q-differential equations by using the Schauder fixed point theorem
Authors: Samei Mohammad Esmael , Ahmadi Ahmad , Selvam A. George Maria , Alzabut Jehad , Rezapour Shahram
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we propose the conditions on which a class of boundary value problems, presented by fractional q-differential equations, is well-posed. First, under the suitable conditions, we will prove the existence and uniqueness of solution by means of the Schauder fixed point theorem. Then, the stability of solution will be discussed under the perturbations of boundary condition, a function existing in the problem, and the fractional order derivative. Examples involving algorithms and illustrated graphs are presented to demonstrate the validity of our theoretical findings.
A terrorism-based differential game: Nash differential game
Authors: Megahed Abd El-Monem A.
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we investigate the problem of combating terrorism by the government, which is one of the most serious problems that direct governments and countries. We formulate the problem and use the Nash approach of a differential game to obtain the optimal strategies for combating terrorism. We study the relationship between each of the government’ strategies and terrorism when the government is on the defensive (reactive), and we study when the government expects terrorist attacks and develops its strategies to combat terrorism. Also, we study the relationship between government activity and its strategies as well as government activity and the strategy of terrorist organizations.
Mathematical analysis of a fractional resource-consumer model with disease developed in consumer
Authors: Mezouaghi Abdelheq , Benali Abdelkader , Kumar Sunil , Djilali Salih , Zeb Anwar , Rezapour Shahram
Published: November 2021

The research presents a qualitative investigation of a fractional-order consumer-resource system with the hunting cooperation interaction functional and an infection developed in the resources population. The existence of the equilibria is discussed where there are many scenarios that have been distinguished as the extinction of both populations, the extinction of the infection, the persistence of the infection, and the two populations. The influence of the hunting cooperation interaction functional is also investigated where it can influence the existence of equilibria and their stability. A proper numerical scheme is used for building a proper graphical representation for the goal of confirming the theoretical results.
Non-genetic inheritance of environmental exposures: a protocol for a map of systematic reviews with bibliometric analysis
Authors: Macartney Erin L. , Drobniak Szymon M. , Nakagawa Shinichi , Lagisz Malgorzata
Published: November 2021

Background

Over the last few decades, we increasingly see examples of parental environmental experiences influencing offspring health and fitness. More recently, it has become clear that some non-genetic effects can be conferred across multiple generations. This topic has attracted research from a diversity of disciplines such as toxicology, biomedical sciences, and ecology, due to its importance for environmental and health issues, as well as ecological and evolutionary processes, with implications for environmental policies. The rapid accumulation of primary research has enabled researchers to perform systematic reviews (SRs), including meta-analyses, to investigate the generality of and sources of variation in non-genetic effects. However, different disciplines ask different questions and SRs can vary substantially in scope, quality, and terminology usage. This diversity in SRs makes it difficult to assess broad patterns of non-genetic effects across disciplines as well as determine common areas of interest and gaps in the literature. To clarify research patterns within the SR literature on non-genetic inheritance, we plan to create a map of systematic reviews as well as conduct bibliometric mapping (referred to as ‘research weaving’). We will address four key questions: first, what are the broad research patterns unifying the SR literature on non-genetic inheritance across disciplines? Second, are there discipline-specific research patterns, including terminology use, between disciplines? Third, how are authors of the SR literature connected? Fourth, what is the reliability of the SR literature?

Methods

We will systematically collect reviews within the SR ‘family’ that examine non-genetic inheritance arising from parental and ancestral environment by searching databases for journal articles and grey literature, as well as conducting backwards and forwards searching. Search hits will be double screened using ‘decision trees’ that represent the inclusion criteria. All relevant data elements on the review’s topic, as well as a critical appraisal of the review’s approach and reporting, will be extracted into Excel flat sheets. Bibliometric data will be directly extracted from Scopus. We will then query all relevant data elements to address our objectives and present outcomes in easily interpretable tables and figures, accompanied by a narrative description of results.
Efficacy of integrating short-course chemotherapy with Chinese herbs to treat multi-drug resistant pulmonary tuberculosis in China: a study protocol
Authors: Zhang Shun-Xian , Qiu Lei , Li Cui , Zhou Wei , Tian Li-Ming , Zhang Hui-Yong , Ma Zi-Feng , Wu Xian-Wei , Huang Xing , Jiang Yu-Wei , Zhang Shao-Yan , Lu Zhen-Hui
Published: November 2021

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) caused Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) is one of infectious disease that lead a large number of morbidity and mortality all over the world. Although no reliable evidence has been found, it is considered that combining chemotherapeutic drugs with Chinese herbs can significantly improves the cure rate and the clinical therapeutic effect.

Methods

Multi-drug resistant pulmonary tuberculosis (MDR-PTB, n = 258) patients with Qi-yin deficiency syndrome will be randomly assigned into a treatment group (n = 172) or control/placebo group (n = 86). The treatment group will receive the chemotherapeutic drugs combined with Chinese herbs granules (1 + 3 granules), while the control group will receive the chemotherapeutic drugs combined with Chinese herbs placebo (1 + 3 placebo granules). In addition, MDR-PTB (n = 312) patients with Yin deficiency lung heat syndrome will be randomly assigned to a treatment (n = 208) or control/placebo (n = 104) group. The treatment group will receive the chemotherapeutic regimen combined with Chinese herbs granules (2 + 4 granules), while the control group will receive the chemotherapeutic drugs and Chinese herbs placebo (2 + 4 placebo granules). The primary outcome is cure rate, the secondary outcomes included time to sputum culture conversion, lesion absorption rate and cavity closure rate. BACTEC™ MGIT™ automated mycobacterial detection system will be used to evaluate the M.tb infection and drug resistance. Chi-square test and Cox regression will be conducted with SAS 9.4 Statistical software to analyze the data.

Discussion

The treatment cycle for MDR-PTB using standardized modern medicine could cause lengthy substantial side effects. Chinese herbs have been used for many years to treat MDR-PTB, but are without high-quality evidence. Hence, it is unknown whether Chinese herbs enhances the clinical therapeutic effect of synthetic drugs for treating MDR-PTB. Therefore, this study will be conducted to evaluate the clinical therapeutic effect of combining Chinese herbs and chemotherapeutic drugs to treat MDR-PTB cases. It will assist in screening new therapeutic drugs and establishing treatment plan that aims to improve the clinical therapeutic effect for MDR-PTB patients.

Trial registration

This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ChiCTR1900027720) on 24 November 2019 (prospective registered).

Graphical Abstract
BRAFV600E mutation is associated with aggressive features in papillary thyroid carcinomas ≤ 1.5 cm
Authors: Silver Jennifer A. , Bogatchenko Mariya , Pusztaszeri Marc , Forest Véronique-Isabelle , Hier Michael P. , Yang Ji Wei , Tamilia Michael , Payne Richard J.
Published: November 2021

Background

While some studies suggest that the BRAF V600E mutation correlates with a high-risk phenotype in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC), more evidence is necessary before this mutation can be used to help guide decision making in the management of small thyroid nodules. This study investigated whether BRAF V600E mutation is associated with aggressive features in PTMC (≤ 1 cm) and small PTC (1–1.5 cm).

Methods

Retrospective chart review was performed on 121 patient cases. Patients who underwent thyroid surgery for PTMC (≤ 1 cm) or small PTC (1–1.5 cm) were included if molecular testing was done for BRAF V600E mutation. Two study groups were created based on tumour size: PTMC (n = 55) and small PTC (n = 66). The groups were analysed for the presence of a BRAF V600E mutation and aggressive features, including macroscopic extrathyroidal extension (ETE), lymph node metastasis (LNM), and high-risk histological features (tall cell, columnar cell, hobnail, solid/trabecular, and diffuse sclerosing). The Fischer exact test was used to calculate statistical significance.

Results

BRAF V600E mutations were detected in 43.6% of PTMC and 42.4% of small PTC. Of the mutated PTMC nodules, 54.1% demonstrated aggressive characteristics as compared to 19.4% of the non-mutated PTMCs ( p = 0.010). Of the mutated small PTC tumours, 82.1% had aggressive features. In contrast, 28.9% of the non-mutated small PTCs showed aggressive features ( p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate an association between a BRAF V600E mutation and aggressive features in PTMC (≤ 1 cm) and small PTC (1–1.5 cm). Therefore, determining the molecular status of these thyroid nodules for the presence of BRAF V600E can help guide patient management.

Graphical Abstract
Smart education framework
Authors: Demir Kadir Alpaslan
Published: November 2021

Advances in information technologies present opportunities for novel approaches, methods, and tools for new or improved education and training practices. Furthermore, these technologies are enabling a shift in the education paradigm. Based on an investigation of a wide range of information technologies supporting smart education, we developed a Smart Education Framework. The framework conceptually structures the information technologies in a layered architecture. We also developed a smart education design approach based on the framework. Furthermore, we show how to use the framework and design approach to develop a specific course or lecture design. To validate the smart education framework, we examined smart education systems reported in the literature. To identify smart education systems, we conducted a systematic literature search. The literature search results show that the smart education framework has the ability to describe smart education systems. This study contributes to the current literature with a smart education framework. The smart education framework will guide future smart education system designs.