bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating serum microRNAs and electronic health records improved the diagnosis of tuberculosis
Authors: Gao Shu‐Hui , Chen Chun‐Guang , Zhuang Chun‐Bo , Zeng Yu‐Ling , Zeng Zhen‐Zhen , Wen Pei‐Hao , Yu Yong‐Min , Ming Liang , Zhao Jun‐Wei
Published: June 2021

Background

To verify the differential expression of miR‐30c and miR‐142‐3p between tuberculosis patients and healthy controls and to investigate the performance of microRNA (miRNA) and subsequently models for the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB).

Methods

We followed up 460 subjects suspected of TB, and finally enrolled 132 patients, including 60 TB patients, 24 non‐TB disease controls (TB‐DCs), and 48 healthy controls (HCs). The differential expression of miR‐30c and miR‐142‐3p in serum samples of the TB patients, TB‐DCs, and HCs were identified by reverse transcription–quantitative real‐time PCR. Diagnostic models were developed by analyzing the characteristics of miRNA and electronic health records (EHRs). These models evaluated by the area under the curves (AUC) and calibration curves were presented as nomograms.

Results

There were differential expression of miR‐30c and miR‐142‐3p between TB patients and HCs (p < 0.05). Individual miRNA has a limited diagnostic value for TB. However, diagnostic performance has been both significantly improved when we integrated miR‐142‐3p and ordinary EHRs to develop two models for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. The AUC of the model for distinguishing tuberculosis patients from healthy controls has increased from 0.75 (95% CI: 0.66–0.84) to 0.96 (95% CI: 0.92–0.99) and the model for distinguishing tuberculosis patients from non‐TB disease controls has increased from 0.67 (95% CI: 0.55–0.79) to 0.94 (95% CI: 0.89–0.99).

Conclusions

Integrating serum miR‐142‐3p and EHRs is a good strategy for improving TB diagnosis.
Interpreting ambiguous emotional information: Convergence among interpretation bias measures and unique relations with depression severity
Authors: O'Connor Cliodhna E. , Everaert Jonas , Fitzgerald Amanda
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to examine the convergence among interpretation bias measures and their associations with depressive symptom severity. Research into interpretation biases employs measures of interpretation bias interchangeably, however, little is known about the relationship between these measures. Participants (N = 82 unselected undergraduate students; 59 female) completed four computer‐based interpretation bias tasks in a cross‐sectional design study. Indirect measures, based on participants' reaction times, were not correlated with each other and had poor split‐half reliability. Direct measures were more strongly correlated with depressive symptoms than indirect measures, but only the Scrambled Sentences Task explained a reliable unique portion of the variance in depressive symptoms. Interpretation bias tasks may not measure the same cognitive process and may differ in the extent to which they are a cognitive marker of depression‐linked interpretation bias. These findings help to improve the measurement of and theory underlying interpretation bias and depressive symptoms.
Small molecule‐mediated modulation of ubiquitination and neddylation improves HSC function ex vivo
Authors: Albayrak Esra , Uslu Merve , Akgol Sezer , Tuysuz Emre Can , Kocabas Fatih
Published: June 2021

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are particularly characterized by their quiescence and self‐renewal. Cell cycle regulators tightly control quiescence and self‐renewal capacity. Studies suggest that modulation of ubiquitination and neddylation could contribute to HSC function via cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs). S‐phase kinase‐associated protein 2 (SKP2) is responsible for ubiquitin‐mediated proteolysis of CDKIs. Here, we modulated overall neddylation and SKP2‐associated ubiquitination in HSCs by using SKP2‐C25, an SKP2 inhibitor, and MLN4924 (Pevonedistat) as an inhibitor of the NEDD8 system. Treatments of SKP2‐C25 and MLN4924 increased both murine and human stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) compartments. This is associated with the improved quiescence of murine HSC by upregulation of p27 and p57 CDKIs. A colony‐forming unit assay showed an enhanced in vitro self‐renewal potential post inhibition of ubiquitination and neddylation. In addition, MLN4924 triggered the mobilization of bone marrow HSPCs to peripheral blood. Intriguingly, MLN4924 treatment could decrease the proliferation of murine bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells or endothelial cells. These findings shed light on the contribution of SKP2, and associated ubiquitination and neddylation in HSC maintenance, self‐renewal, and expansion.
Signed analogue of line graphs and their smallest eigenvalues
Authors: Gavrilyuk Alexander L. , Munemasa Akihiro , Sano Yoshio , Taniguchi Tetsuji
Published: June 2021

In this article, we show that every connected signed graph with smallest eigenvalue strictly greater than and large enough minimum degree is switching equivalent to a complete graph. This is a signed analogue of a theorem of Hoffman. The proof is based on what we call Hoffman's limit theorem which we formulate for Hermitian matrices, and also the extension of the concept of Hoffman graph and line graph for the setting of signed graphs.
Shedding light onto the spectra of lime—Part 2: Raman spectra of Ca and Mg carbonates and the role of d‐block element luminescence
Authors: Schmid Thomas , Kraft Ronja , Dariz Petra
Published: June 2021

We previously described the observation of a characteristic narrowband red luminescence emission of burnt lime (CaO), whose reason was unknown so far. This study presents Raman spectra of Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2·4H2O, Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2, MgCO3, CaMgCO3 and CaCO3 (in limestone powder) as well as luminescence spectra of their calcination products. Comparison of the latter revealed MgO:Cr3+ as the source of the red lime luminescence in all studied samples, containing magnesium oxide as major component, minor component or trace. Spectral characteristics and theoretical background of the luminescence emission of d‐block elements integrated in crystal lattices are discussed with the aim of sharpening the awareness for this effect in the Raman community and promoting its application in materials analysis. The latter is demonstrated by the Raman microspectroscopic imaging of the distributions of both Raman‐active and Raman‐inactive phases in clinker remnants in a 19th‐century meso Portland cement mortar sample, which contain relatively high amounts of free lime detected in the form of both luminescing CaO and Raman‐scattering Ca(OH)2, owing to exposure of the surface of the thin section to humid air. A combination of light and Raman spectroscopy revealed a calcium–magnesium–iron sulphide phase, indicating sulphurous raw materials and/or solid fuels employed in the calcination process, which in contrast to previously described morphologies of sulphides in cement clinker form extensive greenish black layers on free lime crystals.
Towards standardization of management of gallbladder carcinoma with obstructive jaundice: Analysis of 113 cases over 10 years at a single institution
Authors: Goel Mahesh , Gupta Amit M. , Patkar Shraddha , Parray Amir M. , Shetty Nitin , Ramaswamy Anant , Patil Prachi , Chopra Supriya , Ostwal Vikas , Kulkarni Suyash , Engineer Reena , Mehta Shaesta
Published: June 2021

Background

Presence of jaundice in gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) is considered a sign of inoperability with no defined treatment pathways.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of all surgically treated GBC patients from January 2010 to December 2019 was performed for evaluating etiology of obstructive jaundice, resectability, postoperative morbidity, mortality, disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Out of 954 patients, 521 patients (54.61%) were locally advanced gallbladder carcinoma (LAGBC: Stage III and IV) and 113 patients (11.84%) had jaundice at presentation. Thirty‐four (30%) patients had benign cause of obstructive jaundice. Median OS of the whole cohort (n=113) was 22 months (16.5–27.49 months) with resectability rate of 62% (70/113). Median OS of curative resection group (n=70) was 32 months and DFS was 25 months. Treatment completion was achieved in 30% (n= 21/70) patients with median OS of 46 months and median DFS of 27 months. Isolated bile duct infiltration subgroup fared the best with median OS of 74 months with a 5‐year survival of 66.7%.

Conclusion

Surgical resection as a part of multimodality treatment improves survival in carefully selected locally advanced gallbladder cancer patients with jaundice. Early introduction of systemic therapy is the key in the management of this disease with aggressive tumor biology.
The Nasoseptal Flap for Reconstruction of Lateral Oropharyngectomy Defects: A Clinical Series
Authors: Turner Meghan T. , Geltzeiler Mathew N. , Ramadan Jad , Moskovitz Jessica M. , Ferris Robert L. , Wang Eric W. , Kim Seungwon
Published: June 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

To study use of the nasoseptal flap (NSF) to reconstruct lateral transoral robotic surgery (TORS) oropharyngectomy defects.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

A clinical series of six patients undergoing NSF reconstruction of lateral TORS oropharyngectomy defects was retrospectively studied. All patients underwent TORS for the treatment of intermediate‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma of the lateral pharyngeal wall between January and June 2017. All patients underwent NSF reconstruction of lateral TORS defects with retrospective analysis of outcomes and complications.

Results

Six patients underwent NSF reconstruction of lateral TORS defects. Operative times decreased from 180 minutes to 90 minutes over the study period. There were two cases of partial flap dehiscence and partial necrosis. There were no major donor site complications. All patients had temporary nasal obstruction and crusting. Two experienced temporary aural fullness. In all patients, the lateral wall was mucosalized in 1–3 weeks. Cephalometric analysis of preoperative imaging revealed that patients with high‐arched palates (>3 cm) and defect lengths that are longer than NSF flap lengths are poor candidates for this technique.

Conclusions

This NSF is a vascularized, locoregional rotational flap that can reconstruct lateral TORS defects in salvages cases or those where the parapharyngeal carotid or mandibular bone are exposed. Postoperative morbidity is limited to temporary nasal dyspnea, aural fullness, and crusting. Preoperative imaging can determine which patient will have successful defect coverage.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:53–60, 2022
Vertical migration timing illuminates the importance of visual and nonvisual predation pressure in the mesopelagic zone
Authors: Benoit‐Bird Kelly J. , Moline Mark A.
Published: June 2021

Each day, motile pelagic organisms of all sizes undergo vertical movements tied to sunset and sunrise. Diel migration of animals is thought to result from the competing need to feed in energy rich surface waters while avoiding visual predators. Previous study using a newly adapted autonomous vehicle to measure individual characteristics in scattering layers provided the first measures of the internal layer structure, demonstrating that deep scattering layers can be made up of many topologically scaled, mono‐specific aggregations, or “schools.” Follow‐up measurements presented here show these schools of mesopelagic animals remain coherent during upward migration at dusk. We found that groups of smaller animals began migrating sooner each night than larger individuals, consistent with their relatively lower detectability by visual predators. We also found a correlation with taxonomic differences in swimming capabilities, suggesting that the ability to avoid predators if they are encountered also plays a role in the patterns of migration observed. The presence of acoustic predators, Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus), however, altered this pattern for their primary prey, causing squid to remain at depth for approximately 40 min longer than others. The risk of predation by this air‐breathing predator decreases with depth, making delaying migration an appropriate response to this largely nonvisual predation risk. Understanding the timing of individual migration patterns provides insights into the bioenergetic and predator–prey processes in the mesopelagic zone that are critical for understanding the ecological and biogeochemical impacts of these high biomass layers in the ocean.
Breather Molecular Complexes in a Passively Mode‐Locked Fiber Laser
Authors: Peng Junsong , Zhao Zihan , Boscolo Sonia , Finot Christophe , Sugavanam Srikanth , Churkin Dmitry V. , Zeng Heping
Published: June 2021

Breathing solitons are nonlinear waves in which the energy concentrates in a localized and oscillatory fashion. Similarly to stationary solitons, breathers in dissipative systems can form stable bound states displaying molecule‐like dynamics, which are frequently called breather molecules. So far, the experimental observation of optical breather molecules and the real‐time detection of their dynamics are limited to diatomic molecules, that is, bound states of only two breathers. In this work, the observation of different types of breather complexes in a mode‐locked fiber laser: multibreather molecules, and molecular complexes originating from the binding of two breather‐pair molecules or a breather pair molecule and a single breather is reported. The intermolecular temporal separation of the molecular complexes attains several hundreds of picoseconds, which is more than an order of magnitude larger than that of their stationary soliton counterparts and is a signature of long‐range interactions. Numerical simulations of the laser model support the experimental findings. Moreover, nonequilibrium dynamics of breathing solitons are also observed, including breather collisions and annihilation. This work opens the possibility of studying the dynamics of many‐body systems in which breathers are the elementary constituents.
Optical Fiber Optofluidic Bio‐Chemical Sensors: A Review
Authors: Li Like , Zhang Ya‐nan , Zhou Yifan , Zheng Wanlu , Sun Yutong , Ma Guoming , Zhao Yong
Published: June 2021

Optofluidic, as an emerging technology that combines photons and microfluidics, has become a powerful, intelligent, and universal sensing platform in the field of bio‐chemical sensing. Optical fiber optofluidic (OFOF), as a branch of optofluidic technology, has stimulated a host of remarkable achievements in the field of bio‐chemical sensing due to its superiority of compact structure, immunity to electromagnetic interference, low sample consumption, high sensitivity, and real‐time dynamic response. In this paper, an overview of OFOF bio‐chemical sensors is presented. The OFOF system architectures are introduced and some advanced functional materials and coating technologies that can be utilized in the OFOF sensing platform to achieve high‐performance biochemical sensing are summarized. Research progress and current status of OFOF bio‐chemical sensors based on various sensing mechanisms are summarized and analyzed, with emphases on their sensing principles, sensing structures, sensing applications, advantages, and disadvantages. Lastly, the existing challenges and future development trends of OFOF biochemical sensors are briefly discussed.
Efficacy and Safety of Topical Silymarin Versus Low Fluence 1064‐nm Q Switched Nd:YAG Laser in the Treatment of Melasma: A Comparative Randomized Trial
Authors: Ibrahim Shady M. A. , Farag Asmaa S. , Ali Mona S. , El‐Gendy Wafaa M.A.F.
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

The management of melasma is challenging and requires multiple uses of available therapeutic options. To compare the short‐term efficacy and safety of topical silymarin and low fluence 1064‐nm Q‐switched ND:YAG laser for treatment of melasma with dermoscopic follow‐up.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Fifty female patients with melasma were included in this study. They were randomly divided into two groups. Group A: 25 patients were treated with six sessions of low fluence Q switched ND:YAG 1064‐nm laser, and group B: 25 patients were treated with topical silymarin cream 1.4% with a 3‐month treatment duration. Patients were evaluated clinically by the modified melasma area and severity index (mMASI) score. Dermoscopic examinations were performed before and after the treatment sessions.

Results

The severity of melasma, as evaluated dermoscopically and clinically by mMASI score, was significantly reduced after treatment in all patients with no recorded side effects. There was no statistically significant difference between both studied groups regarding the change in mMASI score and dermoscopic assessment of the patients after the treatment sessions.

Conclusion

Both low fluence Q switched ND:YAG 1064‐nm laser and topical silymarin cream appear to be safe and effective modalities in the treatment of melasma. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Synthesis of Photo, Oxidation, Reduction Triple‐Stimuli‐Responsive Interface‐Cross‐Linked Polymer Micelles as Nanocarriers for Controlled Release
Authors: Guo Qiong , Liu Jiangtao , Yang Hong , Lei Zhongli
Published: June 2021

Stimuli‐responsive chemical bonds have already been widely applied to construct nanomaterials, however, such materials rarely have great amounts of responsive groups and stable structures. Herein, a triple‐stimuli‐responsive interface‐cross‐linked (ICL) copolymer which is synthesized via Cu(I)‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition click polymerization and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), is reported. N, N′‐bis(bromoacetyl) cystamine is used for intramolecular crosslinking of the linear polymer chains. The ο‐nitrobenzyl groups, peroxalate ester bonds, disulfide bonds, and triazole units are regularly and repeatedly arranged in the hydrophobic blocks, therefore enabling the polymer a large amount of responsive chemical bonds. The polymer self‐assembles into spherical micelles with uniform size in deionized water. Using hydrophobic dye Nile red (NR) as a model drug to evaluate the effect of release in vitro, the multi‐stimuli‐sensitive release properties of the ICL micelles are investigated in detail by means of UV–vis, transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and fluorescence spectrophotometry, and the results indicate the ICL micelles can respond to the photo, oxidation, or reduction responsiveness either independently or synergistically. Furthermore, the cross‐linked structure enhances the stability of the micelles and rarely impacts the total amount of drug release. The research may have applications in the field of drug delivery systems for cancer therapy.
Social good or self‐interest: Incentivizing consumer social media engagement behaviour for health messages
Authors: Siuki Helen , Webster Cynthia M.
Published: June 2021

This study investigates the impact of incentive type and ad appeal on consumers' social media engagement in health‐related ads. The aim is to determine whether self‐oriented incentives versus other‐oriented social incentives encourage (crowd in) or discourage (crowd out) consumers to engage in health‐related ads on social media. Four experimental studies examine the level of social media consumer engagement under three different incentive conditions for two types of ad appeals and two different health issues. Findings show among incentives, the social good incentive has a significantly greater impact on social media consumer engagement for alcohol ads, with the social good incentive triggering people's intrinsic motivations and encouraging social media engagement. For smoking ads, the social good incentive again promotes engagement, although not significant, This study finds that overall people are significantly more likely to engage in emotional health‐related ads on social media compared to rational ads. This study also sheds light on the moderating role of gender on social media engagement for health campaigns. Finally, this study provides insights on the interaction effect of ad appeal and incentives in generating social media engagement.
Anticancer activities of parthenolide in primary effusion lymphoma preclinical models
Authors: Karam Louna , Abou Staiteieh Soumaiah , Chaaban Rady , Hayar Berthe , Ismail Bassel , Neipel Frank , Darwiche Nadine , Abou Merhi Raghida
Published: June 2021

The sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide is a major component of the feverfew medicinal plant, Tanacetum parthenium. Parthenolide has been extensively studied for its anti‐inflammatory and anticancer properties in several tumor models. Parthenolide's antitumor activities depend on several mechanisms but it is mainly known as an inhibitor of the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathway. This pathway is constitutively activated and induces cell survival in primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), a rare aggressive AIDS‐related lymphoproliferative disorder that is commonly caused by the human herpesvirus 8 (HHV‐8) infection. The aim of this study is to evaluate the targeted effect of Parthenolide both in vitro and in vivo. Herein, parthenolide significantly inhibited cell growth, induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, and induced massive apoptosis in PEL cells and ascites. In addition, parthenolide inhibited the NF‐ĸB pathway suppressing IĸB phosphorylation and p65 nuclear translocation. It also reduced the expression of the DNA methylase inhibitor (DNMT1). Parthenolide induced HHV‐8 lytic gene expression without inhibiting latent viral gene expression. Importantly, DMAPT, the more soluble parthenolide prodrug, promoted delay in ascites development and prolonged the survival of PEL xenograft mice. This study supports the therapeutic use of parthenolide in PEL and encourages its further clinical development.
Padovan and Perrin generalized quaternions
Authors: İşbilir Zehra , Gürses Nurten
Published: June 2021

In this study, we investigate the Padovan (or Cordonnier) and Perrin generalized quaternions. We obtain the new identities for these special quaternions related to matrix forms. We also introduce Binet‐like formulae, generating functions, several summation, and binomial properties concerning these quaternions.
Photonic digital‐to‐analog converter based on spectral encoding
Authors: Zhang Qiulin , Chi Hao
Published: June 2021

A photonic digital‐to‐analog converter with a parallel structure based on spectral encoding using a mode‐locked laser is proposed in this article. The key of the method lies in the spectral segmentation, weighting and parallel modulation. The proposed scheme can effectively realize the conversion while ensures a stable coherent superposition. A proof‐of‐concept experiment is successfully demonstrated. Further simulation results are presented to show the potentials of the proposed approach.
Report of AAPM Task Group 155: Megavoltage photon beam dosimetry in small fields and non‐equilibrium conditions
Authors: Das Indra J. , Francescon Paolo , Moran Jean M. , Ahnesjö Anders , Aspradakis Maria M. , Cheng Chee‐Wai , Ding George X. , Fenwick John D. , Saiful Huq M. , Oldham Mark , Reft Chester S. , Sauer Otto A.
Published: June 2021

Small‐field dosimetry used in advance treatment technologies poses challenges due to loss of lateral charged particle equilibrium (LCPE), occlusion of the primary photon source, and the limited choice of suitable radiation detectors. These challenges greatly influence dosimetric accuracy. Many high‐profile radiation incidents have demonstrated a poor understanding of appropriate methodology for small‐field dosimetry. These incidents are a cause for concern because the use of small fields in various specialized radiation treatment techniques continues to grow rapidly. Reference and relative dosimetry in small and composite fields are the subject of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) dosimetry code of practice that has been published as TRS‐483 and an AAPM summary publication (IAEA TRS 483; Dosimetry of small static fields used in external beam radiotherapy: An IAEA/AAPM International Code of Practice for reference and relative dose determination, Technical Report Series No. 483; Palmans et al., Med Phys 45(11):e1123, 2018). The charge of AAPM task group 155 (TG‐155) is to summarize current knowledge on small‐field dosimetry and to provide recommendations of best practices for relative dose determination in small megavoltage photon beams. An overview of the issue of LCPE and the changes in photon beam perturbations with decreasing field size is provided. Recommendations are included on appropriate detector systems and measurement methodologies. Existing published data on dosimetric parameters in small photon fields (e.g., percentage depth dose, tissue phantom ratio/tissue maximum ratio, off‐axis ratios, and field output factors) together with the necessary perturbation corrections for various detectors are reviewed. A discussion on errors and an uncertainty analysis in measurements is provided. The design of beam models in treatment planning systems to simulate small fields necessitates special attention on the influence of the primary beam source and collimating devices in the computation of energy fluence and dose. The general requirements for fluence and dose calculation engines suitable for modeling dose in small fields are reviewed. Implementations in commercial treatment planning systems vary widely, and the aims of this report are to provide insight for the medical physicist and guidance to developers of beams models for radiotherapy treatment planning systems.
Fully automated segmentation of brain tumor from multiparametric MRI using 3D context deep supervised U‐Net
Authors: Lin Mingquan , Momin Shadab , Lei Yang , Wang Hesheng , Curran Walter J. , Liu Tian , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Owing to histologic complexities of brain tumors, its diagnosis requires the use of multimodalities to obtain valuable structural information so that brain tumor subregions can be properly delineated. In current clinical workflow, physicians typically perform slice‐by‐slice delineation of brain tumor subregions, which is a time‐consuming process and also more susceptible to intra‐ and inter‐rater variabilities possibly leading to misclassification. To deal with this issue, this study aims to develop an automatic segmentation of brain tumor in MR images using deep learning.

Method

In this study, we develop a context deep‐supervised U‐Net to segment brain tumor subregions. A context block which aggregates multiscale contextual information for dense segmentation was proposed. This approach enlarges the effective receptive field of convolutional neural networks, which, in turn, improves the segmentation accuracy of brain tumor subregions. We performed the fivefold cross‐validation on the Brain Tumor Segmentation Challenge (BraTS) 2020 training dataset. The BraTS 2020 testing datasets were obtained via BraTS online website as a hold‐out test. For BraTS, the evaluation system divides the tumor into three regions: whole tumor (WT), tumor core (TC), and enhancing tumor (ET). The performance of our proposed method was compared against two state‐of‐the‐arts CNN networks in terms of segmentation accuracy via Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and Hausdorff distance (HD). The tumor volumes generated by our proposed method were compared with manually contoured volumes via Bland–Altman plots and Pearson analysis.

Results

The proposed method achieved the segmentation results with a DSC of 0.923 ± 0.047, 0.893 ± 0.176, and 0.846 ± 0.165 and a 95% HD95 of 3.946 ± 7.041, 3.981 ± 6.670, and 10.128 ± 51.136 mm on WT, TC, and ET, respectively. Experimental results demonstrate that our method achieved comparable to significantly (p < 0.05) better segmentation accuracies than other two state‐of‐the‐arts CNN networks. Pearson correlation analysis showed a high positive correlation between the tumor volumes generated by proposed method and manual contour.

Conclusion

Overall qualitative and quantitative results of this work demonstrate the potential of translating proposed technique into clinical practice for segmenting brain tumor subregions, and further facilitate brain tumor radiotherapy workflow.
Changes in motor function in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients after travel restrictions due to COVID‐19
Authors: Nishizawa Hitomi , Nakamura Akinori
Published: June 2021

Introduction/Aim

This retrospective study aimed to quantify the changes in motor function in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) due to the government‐imposed travel restrictions associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic.

Methods

Twelve DMD patients were enrolled in this investigation (mean ± SD age: 9.8 ± 3.6 y). Their physical characteristics and motor function were evaluated approximately 3 mo before, immediately before, and approximately 3 mo after the travel restrictions were decreed. Statistical comparisons were performed of the changes in motor function before and after the travel restrictions.

Results

The change in range of motion (ROM) of ankle dorsiflexion was significantly decreased after the travel restrictions. Changes in body mass index and other motor function parameters were not significant.

Discussion

An apparent decrease in the amount of physical activity due to travel restrictions in response to COVID‐19 negatively affected ankle dorsiflexion ROM but not other motor functions. A more sedentary lifestyle and lack of regular physical therapy services most likely contributed to this reduction. The use of remote rehabilitation tools with the involvement of physiotherapists may help mitigate such changes and prevent more severe physical decline.
Systematic review and appraisal of clinical practice guidelines on pelvic organ prolapse using the AGREE II tool
Authors: Tsiapakidou Sofia , Nygaard Christiana Campani , Falconi Gabriele , Pape Janna , Betschart Cornelia , Doumouchtsis Stergios K ,   CHORUS: An International Collaboration for Harmonising Outcomes, Research and Standards in Urogynaecology and Women's Health (i-chorus.org)
Published: June 2021

Aims

To systematically evaluate the content and quality of national and international clinical guidelines on pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Methods

We searched medical databases and organizations websites, to identify national and international guidelines on diagnosis and management of POP. Five authors independently assessed guidelines using the validated AGREE II tool. Its six domains include (1) scope and purpose, (2) stakeholder involvement, (3) rigor of development, (4) clarity of presentation, (5) applicability, and (6) editorial independence.

Results

Eight guidelines met the inclusion criteria. Three hundred and thirteen different recommendations were identified. One hundred and ninety‐nine recommendations were comparable across guidelines. Thirty‐one recommendations were not supported by research evidence. Assessment by history and physical examination using the POP quantification system and consideration of imaging were recommendations featuring in all guidelines. Conservative treatment recommendations namely pelvic floor muscle training and vaginal pessaries were also found in all guidelines. Regarding surgical management, patient counseling, treating only symptomatic POP, consideration of apical fixation during surgical treatment, and use of biological or synthetic implants in recurrent cases were recommendations in all guidelines. Overall, the highest median scores were in the domains “scope and purpose” and “rigor of development”. The lowest median score was for applicability (28.3%). Although the median score of “editorial independence” was high (85.4%), variability was also substantial (interquartile range: 12.5–100).

Conclusion

We identified variations in quality and deficiencies in certain areas, especially “applicability” and “editorial independence.” Improvements in these key domains may enhance the quality and clinical impact of clinical practice guidelines.
Urodynamic characterization of giggle incontinence in children
Authors: Mohan Kunnath Sharon , Clothier Joanna , Solomon Eskinder , Wright Anne J. , Taghizadeh Arash
Published: June 2021

Aims

Giggle incontinence is a rare condition resulting in excessive urinary incontinence with laughter, where bladder function is otherwise “normal.” Urodynamic descriptions of the condition to date are limited. We believe that giggle incontinence has characteristic urodynamic findings. We tested this hypothesis.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the urodynamic investigations of patients with giggle incontinence managed in a tertiary regional bladder unit between February 2014 and November 2019.

Results

We identified the studies of seven patients, median age 13.5 years (10.4–15.7) of whom 6 were female. All had videourodynamics. Two went on to have further invasive investigation; one had urethral pressure profile and one had ambulatory urodynamics.

Detrusor overactivity (DO) was observed in six. DO was asensate in all. In five DO was triggered by laughter and was associated with laughter induced incontinence in four. Six had DO that was not provoked by laugher. In one amplitude of DO was proportional to vigour of laughter. In three patients there was identification of sudden pelvic floor relaxation during laughter resulting in incontinence. Stress urinary incontinence was not observed in any.

Conclusions

Giggle incontinence is a complex phenomenon. Urodynamic diagnosis is challenging and is dependent on eliciting laughter. We present the first urodynamic demonstration that giggle incontinence is associated with laughter‐induced, asensate DO and concurrent, momentary pelvic floor relaxation. We hope this will provide a more consistent basis for defining this condition in the future.
Comparative effectiveness of liquid human milk fortifiers: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bridges Kayla M. , Newkirk Melanie , Byham‐Gray Laura , Chung Mei
Published: June 2021

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of liquid human milk fortifiers (HMFs) derived from exclusive HM or hydrolyzed protein on growth, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), or late‐onset sepsis in North American very low‐birth‐weight (VLBW) infants compared with powder HMFs (control).

Methods

Prospective trials published between 2009 and 2020 were systematically reviewed, and meta‐analysis was conducted by using a random‐effects model.

Results

Five studies were identified for up to 591 participants across 39 centers. Study treatments included whey or casein hydrolysate HMF and exclusive HM HMF. Infants fed whey or casein hydrolysate HMF had growth differences compared with the control. No differences were found across treatments in regard to NEC or sepsis.

Conclusion

Very low‐quality evidence suggests greater linear growth in VLBW infants fed whey hydrolysate liquid HMF, as well as greater weight gain in those fed casein hydrolysate HMF, compared with the control. Additional prospective, multicenter randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these estimates because of sparsity of evidence. There is insufficient evidence to support HMF decisions regarding NEC or late‐onset sepsis prophylaxis.
Postpartum depression and family function in Chinese women within 1 year after childbirth: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Guan Ziyao , Wang Yuwei , Hu Xin , Chen Jiarui , Qin Chunxiang , Tang Siyuan , Sun Mei
Published: June 2021

Family‐related factors are reported to influence the development of postpartum depression (PPD), but limited studies have considered the role of family function in this condition. This study aimed to describe the proportion of people with probable or suspected PPD and to determine the relationships among PPD, family function, and obstetric factors. A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 630 women who attended six integrated teaching and scientific research communities in Changsha, China. Instruments included the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale and the Family Assessment Device (FAD). A multivariate logistic regression model was used to determine the risk factors of PPD. The prevalence of probable or suspected PPD was 37% in this sample. We found communication (odds ratio [OR] = 3.795, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.619–8.897), affective responsiveness (OR = 2.685, 95% CI = 1.642–4.301), role (OR = 2.483, 95% CI = 1.041–5.922), and general functioning (OR = 5.704，95% CI = 2.233–14.569) dimensions of FAD, and type of feeding (OR = 2.700, 95% CI = 1.285–5.671) influenced PPD in the context of Chinese culture. To decrease the prevalence of PPD, interventions such as health education programs and cognitive behavior therapy to strengthen family function are recommended among couples during and after pregnancy.
Foraminifera—A new find in the microtaphonomical characterization of bones from marine archaeological excavations
Authors: Guareschi Edda E. , Haig David W. , Tobe Shanan S. , Nicholls Philip K. , Magni Paola A.
Published: June 2021

Foraminifera are marine single‐celled organisms, ubiquitous in marine environments, present in brackish waters and absent in terrestrial locations. Their presence has been associated with archaeological and forensic studies only rarely and just once and superficially with bones of terrestrial mammals. In this study, a new association is presented between foraminifera enclosed in the dissolving trabecular spaces of terrestrial mammalian bones, recovered in underwater archaeological excavations between 1968 and 1980.

Research on the new association aims to detail the micro‐characterization of bone in underwater environments, leading to a better understanding of bone taphonomic trajectories, the chronological sequences of changes occurring between death and the incorporation of the remains of an organism within the depositional environment. The analysis of taphonomic trajectories is known to hold relevance in distinct disciplines, such as archaeology, paleontology, and forensic sciences.

Different foraminiferal taxa are linked to different marine environments, characterized by specific ranges of water depth, amount of light and oxygen, temperature, and composition of sediment. The association between foraminifera and terrestrial mammalian bones indicates deposition in a marine or brackish environment; thus, the analysis of the specific ecology of the identified foraminiferal taxa can point to a specific environment, adding information to paleontological, archaeological, or forensics casework.
Identification of anti‐Parkinson's Disease Lead Compounds from Aspergillus ochraceus Targeting Adenosin Receptors A2A
Authors: Hu Linzhen , Tian Shuying , Wu Rongrong , Tong Zhou , Jiang Wen , Hu Ping , Xiao Xueyang , Zhang Xueke , Zhou Hui , Tong Qingyi , Lu Yuanyuan , Huang Zhiyong , Chen Yong , Zhang Yonghui
Published: June 2021

Two novel alkaloids compounds together with fifteen know metabolites were identified from Aspergillus ochraceus. The stereochemistry features of the new molecules were determined via HRESIMS, NMR, ECD, and XRD analyses. Amongst these, compounds two compounds exhibited potential efficacy as anti‐Parkinson's disease with the EC50 values of 2.30 and 2.45 μM, respectively. ADMET prediction showed that these compounds owned favorable drug‐like characteristics and safe toxicity scores towards CNS drugs. Virtual screening analyses manifested that the compounds exhibited not only robust and reliable interactions to adenosine receptors A2A, but also higher binding selectivity to A2A receptors than to A1 and A3 receptors. Molecular dynamics simulation demonstrated the reliability of molecular docking results and the stability of the complexes obtained with the novel compounds and A2A receptors in natural environments. It is the first time that anti‐PD lead compounds have been identified from Aspergillus ochraceus and targeting adenosine A2A receptors.
Cardiac time intervals and myocardial performance index for prediction of twin–twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Gijtenbeek Manon , Eschbach Sanne J. , Middeldorp Johanna M. , Klumper Frans J. C. M. , Slaghekke Femke , Oepkes Dick , Haak Monique C.
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To explore whether intertwin discordance in myocardial performance index (MPI) or cardiac time intervals enables the prediction of twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) in monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) pregnancies with amniotic fluid discordance.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of MCDA pregnancies with amniotic fluid discordance ≥4 cm. Serial ultrasound examinations consisted of evaluation of amniotic fluid, fetal Dopplers and fetal cardiac function.

Results

We included 21 “future‐TTTS” (group I), 18 selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR; group II) and 20 uncomplicated MCDA twin pairs (group III). Group I had a higher intertwin difference in left ventricle (LV) MPI and right ventricle (RV) MPI compared to group II and III. The intertwin difference in global heart relaxation time was significantly higher in group I compared to group III. Future recipient twins had significantly higher contraction times of the global heart and RV and lower relaxation times of the global heart and RV compared to the “expected recipients” in group II and III.

Conclusion

Intertwin discordance in LV‐MPI and RV‐MPI differentiate between TTTS and MCDA pregnancies with transient discordant amniotic fluid volume. Cardiac time intervals identify future recipient twins. The clinical utility of cardiac time intervals and MPI should be investigated in large prospective studies.
Chitosan‐based nanocomposites for medical applications
Authors: Murugesan Selvakumar , Scheibel Thomas
Published: June 2021

Chitosan as a biobased polymer is gaining increasing attention due to its extraordinary physico‐chemical characteristics and properties. While a primary use of chitosan has been in horticultural and agricultural applications for plant defense and to increase crop yield, recent research reports display various new utilizations in the field of advanced biomedical devices, targeted drug delivery, and as bioimaging sensors. Chitosan possesses multiple characteristics such as antimicrobial properties, stimuli‐responsiveness, tunable mechanical strength, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and water‐solubility. Further, chitosan can be processed into nanoparticles, nano‐vehicles, nanocapsules, scaffolds, fiber meshes, and 3D printed scaffolds for a variety of applications. In recent times, nanoparticles incorporated in chitosan matrices have been identified to show superior biological activity, as cells tend to proliferate/differentiate faster when they interact with nanocomposites rather than bulk or micron size substrates/scaffolds. The present article intents to cover chitosan‐based nanocomposites used for regenerative medicine, wound dressings, drug delivery, and biosensing applications.
The governance of the Kafala system and the punitive control of migrant domestic workers
Authors: Parreñas Rhacel Salazar , Silvey Rachel
Published: June 2021

In the United Arab Emirates, the kafala system binds migrant domestic workers to employment with one employer‐sponsor. While various studies have identified the labour conditions elicited by the kafala system, research has paid less attention to the forces that underpin workers' interest in accommodating the constraints of the kafala. This article examines the effects of two punitive legal mechanisms that discipline domestic workers to remain within the kafala: cancellation and illegalisation. To be cancelled means to have one's contract revoked by one's employer‐sponsor and consequently be forcibly deported; illegalisation is the consequence that migrants face if they choose to “abscond” from their sponsor‐employer without permission. By examining the punitive legal system in which the kafala system is embedded, this article contributes to understanding the legal mechanisms that discipline migrant domestic workers into servitude in the UAE.
Scientific and regulatory evaluation of mechanistic in silico drug and disease models in drug development: Building model credibility
Authors: Musuamba Flora T. , Skottheim Rusten Ine , Lesage Raphaëlle , Russo Giulia , Bursi Roberta , Emili Luca , Wangorsch Gaby , Manolis Efthymios , Karlsson Kristin E. , Kulesza Alexander , Courcelles Eulalie , Boissel Jean‐Pierre , Rousseau Cécile F. , Voisin Emmanuelle M. , Alessandrello Rossana , Curado Nuno , Dall’ara Enrico , Rodriguez Blanca , Pappalardo Francesco , Geris Liesbet
Published: June 2021

The value of in silico methods in drug development and evaluation has been demonstrated repeatedly and convincingly. While their benefits are now unanimously recognized, international standards for their evaluation, accepted by all stakeholders involved, are still to be established. In this white paper, we propose a risk‐informed evaluation framework for mechanistic model credibility evaluation. To properly frame the proposed verification and validation activities, concepts such as context of use, regulatory impact and risk‐based analysis are discussed. To ensure common understanding between all stakeholders, an overview is provided of relevant in silico terminology used throughout this paper. To illustrate the feasibility of the proposed approach, we have applied it to three real case examples in the context of drug development, using a credibility matrix currently being tested as a quick‐start tool by regulators. Altogether, this white paper provides a practical approach to model evaluation, applicable in both scientific and regulatory evaluation contexts.
Quercetin and metabolic syndrome: A review
Authors: Hosseini Azar , Razavi Bibi Marjan , Banach Maciej , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: June 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex of diseases that lead to mortality due to the development of cardiovascular problems. Quercetin, as an important flavonoid, has various properties such as decreasing blood pressure, anti‐hyperlipidemia, anti‐hyperglycemia, anti‐oxidant, antiviral, anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐microbial, neuroprotective, and cardio‐protective effects. In this review article, we collected original articles from different sources such as Google Scholar, Medline, Scopus, and Pubmed, which is related to the effect of quercetin on the improvement of the signs of MetS, including elevated glucose level, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and blood pressure. According to these data, quercetin may also have a role in the management of metabolic disorders via different mechanisms such as increasing adiponectin, decreasing leptin, anti‐oxidant activity, reduction of insulin resistance, the elevation of insulin level, and blocking of calcium channel. We have attempted to make some recommendations on the quercetin application in patients. However, it needs to do further clinical trials and more investigations to show the real clinical value of quercetin on metabolic syndrome.
Effects of resveratrol on female reproduction: A review
Authors: Sirotkin Alexander V.
Published: June 2021

The present review summarizes the current knowledge concerning physiological effects of resveratrol (RSV) with emphasis on the RSV action on female reproductive processes. The review outlines provenance, properties, mechanisms of action, physiological and therapeutic actions of RSV on female reproduction and other physiological processes, as well as areas of possible application of R. This review is based on the search for the related full papers indexed in Medline/Pubmed, Web of Science and SCOPUS databases between the year 2000 and 2021 according to the criteria of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses extension for scoping reviews and other relatedguidelines. The analysis of the available information suggests that RSV has a number of properties which enable its influence on various physiological processes including female reproduction at various regulatory levels via various extra‐ and intracellular signalling pathways. Despite some contradictions and limitations in the available data, they indicate applicability of both stimulatory and inhibitory effects of RSV for control and influence of various reproductive and non‐reproductive processes and treatment of their disorders in phytotherapy, animal production, medicine, biotechnology and assisted reproduction. To establish the clinical efficacy of RSV, further high quality studies are needed.