bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UAV Automation Control System Based on an Intelligent Sensor Network
Authors: Jia Feng , Song Yang
Published: August 2022

With the widespread use of UAVs, it is gradually difficult for single UAV to meet the needs of increasingly complex scenarios. At the same time, the problems of low autonomy and high dependence on control stations in central UAV cluster networks are gradually highlighted. In this paper, we analyze the theoretical conditions of network topology establishment and network connectivity, design a series of UAV distributed cluster automation control algorithm frameworks, and achieve certain research results, taking the distributed clusters of flight self-organizing networks as the background and using mathematical tools such as algebraic graph theory and random geometry to build a vibration sensor array model based on multiple intelligent sensor management. Based on this, a distributed connectivity maintenance algorithm based on the importance of nodes is designed to realize the “self-healing” of the flight’s self-organizing network. This study also improves the Mavlink flight control communication protocol customization and Zigbee wireless networking mode design to solve the UAV swarm communication link collision problem. Compared with the existing distributed spectrum estimation-based node importance algorithm, the proposed algorithm further analyzes the topological changes caused by the removal of associated edges by failed nodes and the reconstruction of new associated edges between neighboring nodes, so that the theoretical results are closer to the actual topological dynamics of the flight self-organizing network.
Structure-Based Virtual Screening, Docking, ADMET, Molecular Dynamics, and MM-PBSA Calculations for the Discovery of Potential Natural SARS-CoV-2 Helicase Inhibitors from the Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Metwaly Ahmed M. , Elwan Alaa , El-Attar Abdul-Aziz M. M. , Al-Rashood Sara T. , Eissa Ibrahim H.
Published: August 2022

Continuing our antecedent work against COVID-19, a set of 5956 compounds of traditional Chinese medicine have been virtually screened for their potential against SARS-CoV-2 helicase (PDB ID: 5RMM). Initially, a fingerprint study with VXG, the ligand of the target enzyme, disclosed the similarity of 187 compounds. Then, a molecular similarity study declared the most similar 40 compounds. Subsequently, molecular docking studies were carried out to examine the binding modes and energies. Then, the most appropriate 26 compounds were subjected to in silico ADMET and toxicity studies to select the most convenient inhibitors to be: (1R,2S)-ephedrine (57), (1R,2S)-norephedrine (59), 2-(4-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)phenyl)acetic acid (84), 1-phenylpropane-1,2-dione (195), 2-methoxycinnamic acid (246), 2-methoxybenzoic acid (364), (R)-2-((R)-5-oxopyrrolidin-3-yl)-2-phenylacetic acid (405), (Z)-6-(3-hydroxy-4-methoxystyryl)-4-methoxy-2H-pyran-2-one (533), 8-chloro-2-(2-phenylethyl)-5,6,7-trihydroxy-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrochromone (637), 3-((1R,2S)-2-(dimethylamino)-1-hydroxypropyl)phenol (818), (R)-2-ethyl-4-(1-hydroxy-2-(methylamino)ethyl)phenol (5159), and (R)-2-((1S,2S,5S)-2-benzyl-5-hydroxy-4-methylcyclohex-3-en-1-yl)propane-1,2-diol (5168). Among the selected 12 compounds, the metabolites, compound 533 showed the best docking scores. Interestingly, the MD simulation studies for compound 533, the one with the highest docking score, over 100 ns showed its correct binding to SARS-CoV-2 helicase with low energy and optimum dynamics. Finally, MM-PBSA studies showed that 533 bonded favorably to SARS-CoV-2 helicase with a free energy value of −83 kJ/mol. Further, the free energy decomposition study determined the essential amino acid residues that contributed favorably to the binding process. The obtained results give a huge hope to find a cure for COVID-19 through further in vitro and in vivo studies for the selected compounds.
Energy Saving Control of District Heating System Based on MATLAB
Authors: Sun Yu , Liu Yadan , Su Hui , Tao Xiaoxia
Published: August 2022

In order to offset the lag and delay in the heating process and solve the problem of excessive heating in the heating season, an energy-saving control method of district heating system based on MATLAB is proposed. Based on MATLAB/SIMULINK software, the simulation model of district heating system is established to study its dynamic characteristics. The short-term load forecasting method is introduced to guide the system to conduct centralized regulation and observe the dynamic response of indoor temperature and operating energy consumption. Compared with the constant water supply temperature and the outdoor temperature compensation method, the results show that the proposed method can reduce the indoor temperature fluctuation range to 20 ± 1°C, and the energy saving rate of the whole heating season can reach 14.5% compared with the conventional regulation method.
The Construction of English Smart Classroom Teaching Mode Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Niu Jianing , Liu Yang
Published: August 2022

Deep learning has an increasingly far-reaching impact on classroom teaching and is an important trend driving the application of educational technology in schools. In the traditional lecture-style teaching process, students are mostly in a passive listening and memorizing state. Simple memorization and repeated training have a certain hindering effect on promoting the transfer and application of the learner’s knowledge, and it is not suitable to exert the learner’s subjectivity. This research uses the current rapidly developing wireless communication technology to transmit data to the English teaching management platform, so as to realize the information exchange between the English classroom monitoring terminal and the English teaching management platform. The monitoring terminal of the system is mainly responsible for data collection of information, such as student campus card information, the location of the monitoring terminal, and terminal equipment parameters, and uses wireless communication information technology to upload it to the English teaching management platform according to the communication protocol agreed between the terminal and the platform, and the English teaching management platform can issue instructions to the monitoring terminal, so as to realize the control and management functions of the monitoring terminal. The design of the English teaching management platform of this system is a Web system designed based on B/S architecture. The interface of the system is diverse, and English teachers can easily view the monitoring data on the platform through this system. The main function of the English teaching management platform is to receive the data collected from the monitoring terminal, parse the information, and display the processing results to the English teacher in the form of a page. In order to facilitate the storage of data, MySQL database is used for the background data storage of the English teaching management platform. Through the design of the hardware terminal module and the development of the English teaching management platform, a deep learning-based English smart classroom management prototype system is realized.
Molecular Detection and Characterization of Pasteurella multocida Infecting Camels in Marsabit and Turkana Counties, Kenya
Authors: Kasivalu Justus K. , Omwenga George I. , Aboge Gabriel O.
Published: August 2022

Pasteurella multocida infection is common in Kenya though there is little knowledge of the genetic diversity of the pathogen. P. multocida is part of the normal flora in the respiratory tract of camels, but it becomes pathogenic when the resistance of the camel body is diminished by bad ecological conditions. This study was conducted to detect, characterize, and determine the genetic diversity of P. multocida infecting camels in Marsabit and Turkana Counties. The KMT1 gene was targeted as the marker gene for P. multocida and hyaD-hyaC, bcbD, dcbF, ecbJ, and fcbD as marker genes for capsular serogroups A, B, D, E, and F, respectively. Out of 102 blood and 30 nasal swab samples, twenty-one samples (16%) were confirmed to be positive for P. multocida and only capsular group E was detected in both counties. The P. multocida sequences were highly conserved and were related to strains from other parts of the world. Our study has confirmed that camels in Marsabit and Turkana Counties of Kenya are infected by P. multocida of capsular type E. Farmers should not underfeed camels, ensure appropriate medication and vaccination programs, and minimize herding of camels in crowded areas especially in wet conditions in order to slow the spread of P. multocida infection.
miR-33a-5p Targets RAP2A to Mediate the Sensitivity of Gastric Cancer Cells to 5-FU
Authors: Ti Gang , Guo Zongliang , Li Lili , Lv Yongqiang , Yang Bin , Wang Jian , Guo Rui , Chen Yunqing , Meng Debin , Li Feng
Published: August 2022

Objective. The objective of this study is to explore the effects of microRNA-33a-5p (miR-33a-5p)-ras-related protein Rap-2a (RAP2A) on biological functions of gastric cancer (GC) and to find the potential functional mechanism. Methods. We measured the miR-33a-5p expression in 30 GC tissues and cellular level and 30 adjacent normal tissues as control. Besides, the expression of miR-33a-5p was checked at cell level as well. To screen the possible targets of miR-33a-5p, prediction software was used and gene RAP2A attracted our attention. Through a series of experiments including real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), luciferase assay, and western blotting (WB), we verified RAP2A as a potential target of miR-33a-5p. The impacts of miR-33a-5p and RAP2A on biological functions of GC cell lines (BGC-823 and MGC-803) were analyzed by subsequent experiments. Cell invasion was tested by invasion assays. Cell proliferation was measured by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell clone was measured by clone formation assays. Finally, the expression of RAP2A protein was analyzed by WB assay. Results. We found miR-33a-5p was expressed lowly in GC tissues and cells. Overexpression of miR-33a-5p in BGC-823 and MGC-803 cells greatly inhibited the cell invasion and colony number. Furthermore, compared to sh-control (shControl), RAP2A knockdown (sh-RAP2A/shRAP2A) raised the sensitivity of GC cells to 5-FU significantly, characterized as reducing cell apoptosis. Conclusions. The expression of miR-33a-5p was lower in GC cell lines and tissues obviously, indicating that miR-33a-5p served as the antitumor gene in GC. The expression of RAP2A regulated negatively the sensitivity of GC cells to 5-FU. According to our in vitro experiments, miR-33a-5p/RAP2A was likely to become a new therapeutic target for GC.
Activation of Adaptive and Innate Immune Cells via Localized IL2 Cytokine Factories Eradicates Mesothelioma Tumors
Authors: Nash Amanda M. , Aghlara-Fotovat Samira , Castillio Bertha , Hernandez Andrea , Pugazenthi Aarthi , Lee Hyun-Sung , Jang Hee-Jin , Nguyen Annie , Lu Alexander , Burt Bryan M. , Ghanta Ravi K. , Veiseh Omid
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

IL2 immunotherapy has the potential to elicit immune-mediated tumor lysis via activation of effector immune cells, but clinical utility is limited due to pharmacokinetic challenges as well as vascular leak syndrome and other life-threatening toxicities experienced by patients. We developed a safe and clinically translatable localized IL2 delivery system to boost the potency of therapy while minimizing systemic cytokine exposure.

Experimental Design:

We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of IL2 cytokine factories in a mouse model of malignant mesothelioma. Changes in immune populations were analyzed using time-of-flight mass cytometry (CyTOF), and the safety and translatability of the platform were evaluated using complete blood counts and serum chemistry analysis.

Results:

IL2 cytokine factories enabled 150× higher IL2 concentrations in the local compartment with limited leakage into the systemic circulation. AB1 tumor burden was reduced by 80% after 1 week of monotherapy treatment, and 7 of 7 of animals exhibited tumor eradication without recurrence when IL2 cytokine factories were combined with anti–programmed cell death protein 1 (aPD1). Furthermore, CyTOF analysis showed an increase in CD69+CD44+ and CD69−CD44+CD62L− T cells, reduction of CD86−PD-L1− M2-like macrophages, and a corresponding increase in CD86+PD-L1+ M1-like macrophages and MHC-II+ dendritic cells after treatment. Finally, blood chemistry ranges in rodents demonstrated the safety of cytokine factory treatment and reinforced its potential for clinical use.

Conclusions:

IL2 cytokine factories led to the eradication of aggressive mouse malignant mesothelioma tumors and protection from tumor recurrence, and increased the therapeutic efficacy of aPD1 checkpoint therapy. This study provides support for the clinical evaluation of this IL2-based delivery system.

See related commentary by Palanki et al., p. 5010
Nodakenetin Alleviates Inflammatory Pain Hypersensitivity by Suppressing NF-κB Signal Pathway
Authors: Lin Yiqin , Chen Yingle , Zeng Jingyang , Li Shunyuan
Published: August 2022

Background: Inflammatory pain mediated by nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signal pathway has become an increasingly important clinical issue in the last decade. As a potent antioxidant, Nodakenetin has been shown to have a prominent inhibitory effect on inflammation. However, the therapeutic effects and underlying pharmacological mechanisms of Nodakenetin for inflammatory pain remain unclear. Methods: Intraplanar injection of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) was used to establish a model of chronic inflammation pain in C57BL/6 mice. The chronic neuropathic pain model was conducted by the sciatic nerve ligation surgery. QRT-PCR was performed to estimate the RNA levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Western blot was used to demonstrated the protein levels of phospho-IkappaBα (IκBα), p50, and p65 in HEK293T cells. Results: The bioactive components of the traditional Chinese medicine Notopterygium forbesii boiss mainly include Nodakenetin, isoimperatorin, and pregnenolone. Nodakenetin significantly alleviated CFA-induced inflammatory pain but showed no significant therapeutic effect on surgically induced neuralgia in a mouse model. In contrast, isoimperatorin and pregnenolone did not relieve CFA-induced inflammatory pain. Mechanistically, Nodakenetin inhibited IL-1β-induced activation of the NF-κB pathway and phosphorylation of IκBα in HEK293T cells. Furthermore, Nodakenetin treatment suppressed the expression of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β in mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages. Conclusion: Nodakenetin alleviates inflammatory pain induced by CFA injection in vivo and modulates NF-κB signal pathway in vitro.
Perceived Stress and Coping Strategies among Nursing Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmed Waled A.M. , Abdulla Yahya Hussein Ahmed , Alkhadher Mugahed Ali , Alshameri Faroq Abdulghani
Published: August 2022

Background and Objective: Stress is common among nursing students, especially during COVID-19, because of direct contact with patients, so they need to cope with the stressors. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the level of perceived stress and coping strategies by nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods: Databases such as MEDLINE, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched using keywords. The authors used keywords (perceived stress, coping strategies or resilience, and nursing students). The language was restricted to English. The studies, conducted between December 2019 and December 2021, were included. The full articles were checked for eligibility. The reference manager software EndNote X4 was used for sorting and managing studies. This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO with a number: CRD42021267791. Results: Five studies were included in this review: the first study, from the Philippines, showed that levels of stress and coping strategies were estimated to be 79% and 76.8%, respectively; the second study, from Saudi Arabia, found that the rate of stress among nursing students was 30.9% with several strategies for coping, while the other study from Saudi Arabia showed that the stress level is 1.32 (low stress) and 1.95 (moderate stress) with different coping strategies (avoidance 1.47, problem solving 2.09, stay optimistic 2.06, and transference 1.87); the fourth study from the USA showed that the rate of stress is high 24.7%, with high levels of resilience among nursing students; and the fifth study showed that the rate of stress is 20.94 in the UK and 21.54 in China, with a resilience of 26.70 in the UK and 25.18 in China. Conclusion: The current systematic review showed that nursing students have a high level of stress in all included countries (the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, the USA, the UK, and China), and they developed appropriate coping strategies to face the situation.
Mulheres no Radiojornalismo: mapeamento da presença de vozes femininas em programas jornalísticos de rádio
Authors: Morales Tania , Ferreira Léslie
Published: August 2022

A presença feminina com posição de destaque em programas jornalísticos de rádio é um fenômeno recente que parece romper a histórica hegemonia de vozes masculinas. Este estudo mapeou as mulheres que ocuparam ou ocupam posição de apresentadoras ou debatedoras na faixa nobre das emissoras de radiojornalismo de alcance nacional. Os resultados apontam para um aumento gradual que se consolida em 2020, quando todos os programas da faixa nobre passaram a contar com mulheres apresentadoras. O avanço feminino, no entanto, não representa, por ora, equidade de gênero na condução dos programas. Os estereótipos vocais de gênero tornam desafiador para as mulheres atingirem o mesmo padrão de aceitação dos homens no radiojornalismo.
Detection of G Protein–Coupled Receptor Autoantibodies in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome Using Standard Methodology
Authors: Hall Juliette , Bourne Kate M. , Vernino Steven , Hamrefors Viktor , Kharraziha Isabella , Nilsson Jan , Sheldon Robert S. , Fedorowski Artur , Raj Satish R.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a disorder of orthostatic intolerance that primarily affects women of childbearing age. The underlying pathophysiology of POTS is not fully understood, but it has been suggested that autoimmunity may play a role. The aim of this study was to compare concentrations of autoantibodies to cardiovascular G protein–coupled receptors between patients with POTS and healthy controls.

Methods:

Sera were collected from 116 patients with POTS (91% female; medium age, 29 years) and 81 healthy controls (84% female; medium age, 27 years) from Calgary, Canada, and Malmö, Sweden. Samples were evaluated for autoantibodies to 11 receptors (adrenergic, muscarinic, angiotensin II, and endothelin) using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

Autoantibody concentrations against all of the receptors tested were not significantly different between controls and patients with POTS. The majority of patients with POTS (98.3%) and all controls (100%) had α1 adrenergic receptor autoantibody concentrations above the seropositive threshold provided by the manufacturer (7 units/mL). The proportion of patients with POTS versus healthy controls who fell above the diagnostic thresholds was not different for any tested autoantibodies. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed a poor ability to discriminate between patients with POTS and controls.

Conclusions:

Patients with POTS and healthy controls do not differ in their enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay–derived autoantibody concentrations to cardiovascular G protein–coupled receptors. These findings suggest that these tests are not useful for establishing the role of autoimmunity in POTS.
The Public Futures of the Humanities
Authors: Butler Judith
Published: August 2022

The challenge of demonstrating the value of the humanities can never be fully accomplished by showing that the humanities serve other disciplines. That argument assumes the value of those other disciplines, especially STEM fields, and relegates the humanities to a secondary position whose value is, at most, instrumental. The task is to show the distinctive contribution that the humanities can make to all fields of knowledge by keeping alive values that are irreducible to both instrumentality and profitability. The public humanities stand the best chance of accomplishing this task since it not only shows what the humanities have to offer the public sphere, but how various publics are framing what the humanities do within the university. Further, the public humanities have the potential to reorient the mission of the university. One reason the humanities are underfunded is that they have the power to challenge the hegemony of neoliberalism, its market metrics and financial rationality. Universities should be more fully engaged with public art, including literary and arts events, and the public for open debate as a way of demonstrating why the public requires the humanities, and is already engaged in its practices.
Why Public Humanities?
Authors: Smulyan Susan
Published: August 2022

This essay maps the nature, scope, and implications of the field of “public humanities” as practiced within the university. Calling for a public humanities that is collaborative, process-centered, and committed to racial and social justice, the essay considers the challenges and possibilities the new field brings to university teaching, scholarship, and administration. The author draws from her work at Brown University, her experience as the editor of a book of case studies, Doing Public Humanities, and her time as a participant-researcher at New Urban Arts, a Providence arts group, to review the organizations and resources devoted to public humanities. Describing why (and what, when, where, and how) a new humanities field began and where it stands now, the essay traces possible lessons for the humanities brought by the evolution of public humanities.
Planetary Humanities: Straddling the Decolonial/Postcolonial
Divide
Authors: Chakrabarty Dipesh
Published: August 2022

This essay argues that while the science of climate change treats the Earth as one, political responses to climate change are marked profoundly by the fact that humanity can never speak as one. Questions of climate justice and sustainable human futures have deepened fractured and contested histories of modernity in which the West/non-West division intersects with emergent distinctions between postcolonial and decolonial approaches. But none of these distinctions are absolute. By discussing the works of Déborah Danowski and Eduardo Viveiros de Castro, I seek to show how traditions of European and non-European thought remain entangled even as we seek, intellectually, to decolonize the world. In a connected world, the not-one-ness of humanity acts as a ground for dissension within the humanities but not for any absolute differences.
Scientific Inquiry: From Metaphors to Abstraction
Authors: Carrillo Natalia , Martínez Sergio
Published: August 2022

In philosophy of science, abstraction tends to be subsumed under representation, often being described as the omission of a target’s features when it is represented. This approach to abstraction sidesteps cognitive aspects of abstraction processes. However, cognitive aspects of abstraction are important in understanding the role of historically grounded epistemic criteria supporting modeling in science. Drawing on recent work on the relation between metaphor and abstraction, we introduce the concept of paths of abstraction, and use historical and contemporary examples to point to their role in guiding the development of relevance criteria which support modeling strategies in science.
Least Squares and Robust Rank-Based Double Bootstrap Analyses for Time-Series Intervention Designs
Authors: Zhang Shaofeng , McKean Joseph W. , Huitema Bradley E.
Published: August 2022

Time-series intervention designs that include two or more phases have been widely discussed in the healthcare literature for many years. A convenient model for the analysis of these designs has a linear model part (to measure changes in level and trend) plus a second part that measures the random error structure; the error structure is assumed to follow an autoregressive time-series process. Traditional generalized linear model approaches widely used to estimate this model are less than satisfactory because they tend to provide substantially biased intervention tests and confidence intervals. We describe an updated version of the original double bootstrap approach that was developed by McKnight et al. (2000) to correct for this problem. This updated analysis and a new robust version were recently implemented in an R package (McKean & Zhang, 2018). The robust method is insensitive to outliers and problems associated with common departures from normality in the error distribution. Monte Carlo studies as well as published data are used to demonstrate the properties of both versions. The R code required to perform the analyses is provided and illustrated.
Single-port laparoscopic appendectomy using a needle-type grasping forceps compared with conventional three-port laparoscopic appendectomy for patients with acute uncomplicated appendicitis: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Chen Yang , Guo Shigang , Liu Yanjie , Yuan Jieqing , Fan Zongqi
Published: August 2022

Objective

To compare the clinical outcomes between single-port laparoscopic appendectomy using a needle-type grasping forceps (SLAN) and conventional three-port laparoscopic appendectomy (CLA) for patients with uncomplicated appendicitis.

Methods

We retrospectively collected clinical data of patients with uncomplicated appendicitis who underwent SLAN or CLA from May 2019 to May 2021 in our center. The patients’ baseline characteristics, perioperative outcomes, and follow-up data were compared between the two groups. Additionally, baseline characteristics were compared with postoperative outcomes in the SLAN group.

Results

Ninety-six patients were enrolled (SLAN group, n = 32; CLA group, n = 64). The SLAN group had a shorter hospital stay, lower 24-hour postoperative visual analogue scale scores, shorter postoperative fasting time, lower frequency of antibiotic administration, and longer operative time than the CLA group. In the SLAN group, younger patients had a longer appendix and male patients had a thicker appendix; additionally, patients with an appendiceal diameter of 0.6 to 1.0 cm had a longer postoperative hospital stay and higher frequency of antibiotic administration.

Conclusions

Compared with CLA, SLAN may be less invasive, provide faster postoperative recovery, and result in better cosmesis for patients with uncomplicated appendicitis. Further research should be performed to evaluate the long-term outcomes.
Autonomy of art and the limits of aesthetics: Sreten Petrović’s contribution to Marxist aesthetics
Authors: Hočevar Marko
Published: August 2022

The paper explores Sreten Petrović’s contribution to Marxist aesthetics. Petrović developed his theory within the framework of the Yugoslav Praxis School, although he was not a member of it. Petrović followed Danko Grlić, a prominent member of the Praxis School, in explaining art as a specific emanation of praxis – free, creative, autonomous and self-emancipatory activity beyond the commodity form of capitalist society. Art was thus understood as the liberation and emancipation of Being and its essence. However, Petrović also introduced a novelty – he claimed that art can never be fully understood nor explained. According to him, the only true Marxist aesthetics, given our limited cognitive abilities and the capitalist imperative of producing commodities, would be to limit aesthetics to meta-aesthetics and affirm the ‘critique of the aesthetic mind’. We argue that by limiting aesthetics to meta-aesthetics Petrović is following the young Wittgenstein and his proposition that the world is unintelligible to philosophy. Accordingly, we claim that Petrović’s contribution should be seen as an important contribution to Marxist aesthetics.
Intervention Adaptation and Implementation Method for Real-World Constraints and Using New Technologies
Authors: Wu Elwin , Lee Yong Gun , Vinogradov Vitaliy , Kali Sultana , Yelkeyev Aidar , Goddard-Eckrich Dawn A. , Dasgupta Anindita , Hess Leona
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Rigorous adaptation methods are needed to revise existing evidence-based behavioral interventions for implementation for new target populations, revised/updated outcomes, new delivery modalities, recent advances, and new technologies. We describe an adaptation method designed to overcome the real-world challenges of having very limited existing expertise, resources, and time. Method: This adaptation method and accompanying visualization tool (“Deconstruction/Reconstruction Matrix”) preserves theoretical mechanisms of behavior change, accounts for challenges in utilizing new technologies, and strengthens clinical processes, with an emphasis on safety. Results: The adaptation of an in-person HIV behavioral intervention for sexual and gender diverse men in Kazakhstan to one delivered remotely via telecommunication and social media technologies exemplifies the process and strengths of the method, concomitantly resulting in recommendations for adaptation and implementation of mobile health (mHealth) and digital health interventions. Discussion: This method allows researchers and clinicians to adapt interventions rapidly and rigorously and to benefit from new technologies.
The determination of the regularization parameter based on signal-to-noise ratio in load identification
Authors: Tang Zhonghua , Zhang Zhifei , Zan Ming , Xu Zhongming , Xu Enyong
Published: August 2022

Tikhonov regularization is frequently used to solve the ill-conditioned inverse problem in load identification, and the regularization parameter which plays a significant role in Tikhonov regularization is usually determined by L-curve method. However, two corners appear on the L-curve at some situations, which cause the L-curve method to fail to determine a proper regularization parameter. To improve the accuracy of load identification, a new form of regularization parameter which is based on the largest singular value of the impulse response function matrix and signal-to-noise ratio is developed, and a modified L-curve is plotted. When the norm of the solution and the norm of the residual are balanced, a proper regularization parameter is determined through the modified L-curve. Both simulation and experimental results show that the identified load by the modified L-curve is closer to the actual load than L-curve. It also reveals that the modified L-curve is reasonable and the new regularization parameter is correct, and the accuracy of load identification is improved effectively.
A general theory for anisotropic Kirchhoff–Love shells with in-plane bending of embedded fibers
Authors: Duong Thang X , Khiêm Vu N , Itskov Mikhail , Sauer Roger A
Published: August 2022

This work presents a generalized Kirchhoff–Love shell theory that can explicitly capture fiber-induced anisotropy not only in stretching and out-of-plane bending, but also in in-plane bending. This setup is particularly suitable for heterogeneous and fibrous materials such as textiles, biomaterials, composites and pantographic structures. The presented theory is a direct extension of classical Kirchhoff–Love shell theory to incorporate the in-plane bending resistance of fibers. It also extends existing second-gradient Kirchhoff–Love shell theory for initially straight fibers to initially curved fibers. To describe the additional kinematics of multiple fiber families, a so-called in-plane curvature tensor—which is symmetric and of second order—is proposed. The effective stress tensor and the in-plane and out-of-plane moment tensors are then identified from the mechanical power balance. These tensors are all second order and symmetric in general. Constitutive equations for hyperelastic materials are derived from different expressions of the mechanical power balance. The weak form is also presented as it is required for computational shell formulations based on rotation-free finite element discretizations. The proposed theory is illustrated by several analytical examples.
Free energy perturbation–based large-scale virtual screening for effective drug discovery against COVID-19
Authors: Li Zhe , Wu Chengkun , Li Yishui , Liu Runduo , Lu Kai , Wang Ruibo , Liu Jie , Gong Chunye , Yang Canqun , Wang Xin , Zhan Chang-Guo , Luo Hai-Bin
Published: August 2022

As a theoretically rigorous and accurate method, FEP-ABFE (Free Energy Perturbation-Absolute Binding Free Energy) calculations showed great potential in drug discovery, but its practical application was difficult due to high computational cost. To rapidly discover antiviral drugs targeting SARS-CoV-2 M pro and TMPRSS2, we performed FEP-ABFE–based virtual screening for ∼12,000 protein-ligand binding systems on a new generation of Tianhe supercomputer. A task management tool was specifically developed for automating the whole process involving more than 500,000 MD tasks. In further experimental validation, 50 out of 98 tested compounds showed significant inhibitory activity towards M pro, and one representative inhibitor, dipyridamole, showed remarkable outcomes in subsequent clinical trials. This work not only demonstrates the potential of FEP-ABFE in drug discovery but also provides an excellent starting point for further development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs. Besides, ∼500 TB of data generated in this work will also accelerate the further development of FEP-related methods.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic in the diagnosis and management of colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Domper-Arnal María José , Hijos-Mallada Gonzalo , Lanas Ángel
Published: August 2022

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed an unprecedented challenge to healthcare systems worldwide, causing downscaling of almost all other activities, especially in its early stages. Currently, the availability of vaccines along with the spread of new viral variants has modified the epidemiology of the disease, and the previous activity is being gradually resumed in most healthcare facilities. In this review, we have summarized the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic in the diagnosis and management of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Population-based screening with either colonoscopy or fecal occult blood tests has proven to reduce CRC incidence and mortality, so screening programs have been implemented in most western countries. However, during the first COVID-19 wave, most of these programs had to be disrupted temporarily. In this review, we have thoroughly analyzed the consequences of these disruptions of screening programs as well as of the forced delays in diagnostic and therapeutic services on CRC prognosis, although its exact impact cannot be exactly measured yet. In any way, strategies to minimize its effect, such as catch-up strategies expanding the colonoscopy capacity or using fecal occult blood concentration and other risk factors to prioritize patients, are urgently needed. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to a change in CRC patient presentation, with an overall temporary decreased incidence due to postponed diagnoses, but with more patients presenting in need of an emergency admission or with symptoms. Finally, changes in treatment approaches in CRC patients have been reported during the pandemic, namely a drop in the proportion of laparoscopic surgeries or a rise in short-term radiotherapy courses. We have therefore aimed to summarize the available evidence to guide the healthcare professionals treating CRC patients to choose the best treatment options in the current pandemic situation.
Anti-inflammatory Effect of (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate on Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Grown on 316L Stainless Steel via STAT3/NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Xu Kun , Liu Yi , Wang Jinpeng , Wang Yue , Zhao Yuyi , Zhao Jinbin , Zhang Beilin , Shao Guoxi
Published: August 2022

Stainless steel (316L SS) is commonly used to build coronary artery stents for the treatment of occluded arteries. However, tissues in contact with the stent may develop inflammation that can lead to restenosis. The natural substances derived from normal diet provide a pool of candidates that have potential to treat cardiovascular diseases. (-)-Epigallocatechin-3- O-gallate (EGCG), a polyphenolic flavonoid present in green tea, has antioxidant, antithrombogenic, and anti-inflammatory effects, and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to investigate whether EGCG has an anti-inflammatory effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) attached to the surface of 316L SS. We evaluated cell proliferation using the dimethyl thiazolyl tetrazolium bromide method in HUVECs after treatment with EGCG. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assessed the level of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in HUVECs. We further investigated the regulatory mechanisms of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)/NF-κB signaling pathway in HUVECs by Western-blot analysis. We found that HUVECs cultured on 316L SS had increased cell proliferation and inflammation, and these can be inhibited by treatment with EGCG. EGCG reduced the secretion of IL-6 and TNF and decreased the expression of STAT3 and NF-κB in HUVECs cultured on 316L SS. Consequently, our study demonstrated that EGCG treatment ameliorates the proliferation of HUVEC when cultured with 316L SS, potentially by modulating the inflammation responses via the STAT3/NF-κB signaling pathways.
Drug-related problems and associated factors among adult psychiatric inpatients in Northwest Ethiopia: Multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Dagnew Ephrem Mebratu , Ayalew Mohammed Biset , Alemnew Mekonnen Gizework , Geremew Alehegn Bishaw , Abdela Ousman Abubeker
Published: August 2022

Objective:

To determine the prevalence of drug-related problems and the factors influencing them among adult psychiatric inpatients.

Methods:

A multi-centre cross-sectional observational study was conducted from April to July 2021 at five randomly selected hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia. A total of 325 consecutively sampled patients participated in the study. Clinical pharmacists assessed the drug-related problems based on clinical judgement supported by updated evidence-based disease guidelines. We used the Medscape drug-interactions checker to check drug-to-drug interactions. The results were summarised using descriptive statistics, including frequency, mean, and standard deviation. For each variable, an odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was calculated, as well as the related p-value. The value of p ⩽ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

From the total number of 325 study participants, more than half of them (52.9%) were females, and the mean age ± (standard deviation) was 30.8 ± 11.3 years. At least one drug-related problem was recorded by 60.9% to 95% confidence interval (55.7–65.8) of study participants, with a mean of 0.6 ± 0.49 per patient. Additional drug therapy was the most common drug-related problem (22.8%) followed by non-adherence to medicine (20.6%) and adverse drug reactions (11%), respectively. Factors independent associated with drug-related problems were rural residence (adjusted odds ratio = 1.96, 95% confidence interval: 1.01–2.84, p-value = 0.046), self-employed (adjusted odds ratio = 6.0, 95% confidence interval: 1.0–36.9, p-value = 0.035) and alcohol drinkers (adjusted odds ratio = 6.40, 95% confidence interval: 1.12–37.5, p-value = 0.034).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of drug-related problems among adult psychiatric patients admitted to psychiatric wards was high. Healthcare providers give more attention to tackling these problems. Being a rural resident, self-employed, and alcohol drinkers were associated with drug-related problems.
Caregiving burden and social support in family caregivers of patients with cancer: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Karimollahi Mansoureh , Abazari Malek , Tazakori Zahra , Ramazanzadeh Nargess
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Providing care for patients by family caregivers causes in several consequences known as “Caregiving Burden”, which affects the caregiver's health and the whole family process, considered in holistic healthcare/nursing. This study aimed to evaluate the caregiving burden and social support in family caregivers of patients with cancer and their influencing factors in a local area in Iran.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 190 family members of patients with cancer were studied through convenient sampling method. Data were collected using demographic data sheet enriched with Karnofsky Performance Status Scale and Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADL), and Zarit Burden Inventory and Medical Outcomes Social Support Survey questionnaires.

Results

The results indicated intermediate performance status and moderate independence in ADL in patients. The mean score of caregiving burden was 43.95 ± 17.48 which indicates moderate to severe burden. The average social support in the caregivers was 60.25 ± 23.81% which shows above the average social support. Both performance status and dependence in ADL of patient had statistically significant effect on the caregiving burden in caregivers. Also a statistically significant negative relationship was observed between caregiving burden and social support in primary family caregivers of patients with cancer.

Discussion

Considering the increasing importance of primary care provided by families, developing strategies for providing caregiver's needs through family care in cancer nursing is essential. So supporting caregivers through family nursing in holistic healthcare by providing social support, can play a significant role in reducing caregiving burden in healthcare services considering the qualified holistic healthcare/nursing.
The Mongrel Mob or Head Hunters? The association between neighbourhood-level factors on different types of gang membership in Aotearoa/New Zealand
Authors: Breetzke Gregory D , Curtis-Ham Sophie , Gilbert Jarrod , Tibby Che
Published: August 2022

Previous research has shown that gang members typically emerge from more socially disorganised neighbourhoods. What is less known however is whether members of different types of gangs emerge from the same types of neighbourhoods. In this study, we use the social disorganisation theory as a framework to examine the spatial risk factors associated with two different types of gangs in New Zealand: Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs and New Zealand Adult Gangs. Overall, we found some consistency in spatial risk factors associated with gang membership by type in New Zealand; however, certain variables were significantly predictive of one type of gang membership but not of the other. The overall performance of our models also differed marginally depending on the type of gang being examined. In fact, our findings suggest some non-uniformity in the extent to which the various social disorganisation factors impact gang membership rates by type. The implications of this finding are discussed in the context of an ever-changing gang landscape in the country.
Blue growth zones caused by Fe2+ in tourmaline crystals from the San Piero in Campo gem-bearing pegmatites, Elba Island, Italy
Authors: Altieri Alessandra , Pezzotta Federico , Skogby Henrik , Hålenius Ulf , Bosi Ferdinando
Published: August 2022

Two tourmaline crystals with a blue growth zone at the analogous pole, respectively from the San Silvestro and the Fucili pegmatites, located in the San Piero in Campo village, Elba Island (Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy), have been described for the first time using compositional and spectroscopic data to define their crystal-chemical aspects and the causes of the colour. Compositional data obtained by electron microprobe analysis indicate that both tourmalines belong to the elbaite–fluor-elbaite series. The upper part of each crystal is characterised by an increased amount of Fe (FeO up to ~1 wt.%) and a Ti content below the detection limit. Optical absorption spectra recorded on the blue zone of both samples show absorption bands caused by spin-allowed d-d transitions in [6]-coordinated Fe2+, and no intervalence charge transfer Fe2+-Ti interactions, indicating that Fe2+ is the only chromophore. Mössbauer analysis of the blue zone of the Fucili sample confirmed the Fe2+ oxidation state, implying that the redox conditions in the crystallisation environment were relatively reducing. The presence of colour changes at the analogous termination during tourmaline crystal growth suggests a change in the composition of the crystallisation environment, probably associated with a partial opening of the system.
The role of iron in chronic inflammatory diseases: from mechanisms to treatment options in anemia of inflammation
Authors: Marques Oriana , Weiss Günter , Muckenthaler Martina U.
Published: August 2022

Anemia of inflammation (AI) is a highly prevalent comorbidity in patients affected by chronic inflammatory disorders, such as chronic kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer, that negatively affect disease outcome and quality of life. The pathophysiology of AI is multifactorial, with inflammatory hypoferremia and iron-restricted erythropoiesis playing a major role in the context of disease-specific factors. Here, we review the recent progress in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms contributing to iron dysregulation in AI, the impact of hypoferremia and anemia on the course of the underlying disease, and (novel) therapeutic strategies applied to treat AI.
Plating versus elastic stable intramedullary nailing for displaced pediatric midshaft clavicular fractures
Authors: Hong Pan , Liu Ruikang , Rai Saroj , Ze Renhao , Tang Xin , Li Jin
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Traditionally, operative treatment for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in adolescents has been achieved by using a plate and screws. However, a minimally invasive trend has led surgeons to use the elastic stable intramedullary nail (ESIN) for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures. This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes of adolescent patients who were operated on with an ESIN vs. a plate.

Methods

All patients aged between 10 and 14 years with displaced midshaft clavicle fractures who were operated on at our institute between January 2014 and January 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. The preoperative data, including baseline information on the patients, and types of surgical procedure were collected from the hospital database. The postoperative data, including clinical outcome and complications, were collected during the follow-up visits. Clinical outcome was evaluated during outpatient visits using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score. The scar problem was evaluated according to the Scar Cosmesis Assessment and Rating (SCAR) scale.

Results

A total of 73 patients were included. Patients were categorized into two groups: ESIN (n = 45; 27 males, 18 females) and plate (n = 28; 17 males, 11 females), according to surgical technique. The average age of the patients in the ESIN group was 12.2 ± 1.5 years, and that in the plate group was 12.2 ± 1.4 years. The ESIN group presented significantly less operative time (31.1 vs. 59.8 min), a shorter hospital stay (1.5 vs. 2.5 days), and a smaller incision (2.4 vs. 5.4 cm) as compared to the plate group (P < .001). The rate of scar concern was much higher in the plate group (71.4%) than the ESIN group (22.2%) (P < .001). There was no statistically significant difference in shoulder function between the ESIN group and the plate group at different time points.

Conclusion

A conservative approach remains the first choice for a pediatric clavicle fracture. Both the ESIN and the plate are safe and effective treatment methods for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in adolescents. The ESIN is superior to the plate given its shorter operative time, shorter hospital stay, lower rate of scar concern, and easier implant removal.

Level of evidence

III, retrospective observational study.