bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multimodal brain tumor detection and classification using deep saliency map and improved dragonfly optimization algorithm
Authors: Khan Muhammad Attique , Khan Awais , Alhaisoni Majed , Alqahtani Abdullah , Alsubai Shtwai , Alharbi Meshal , Malik Nazir Ahmed , Damaševičius Robertas
Published: December 2022

In the last decade, there has been a significant increase in medical cases involving brain tumors. Brain tumor is the tenth most common type of tumor, affecting millions of people. However, if it is detected early, the cure rate can increase. Computer vision researchers are working to develop sophisticated techniques for detecting and classifying brain tumors. MRI scans are primarily used for tumor analysis. We proposed an automated system for brain tumor detection and classification using a saliency map and deep learning feature optimization in this paper. The proposed framework was implemented in stages. In the initial phase of the proposed framework, a fusion‐based contrast enhancement technique is proposed. In the following phase, a tumor segmentation technique based on saliency maps is proposed, which is then mapped on original images based on active contour. Following that, a pre‐trained CNN model named EfficientNetB0 is fine‐tuned and trained in two ways: on enhanced images and on tumor localization images. Deep transfer learning is used to train both models, and features are extracted from the average pooling layer. The deep learning features are then fused using an improved fusion approach known as Entropy Serial Fusion. The best features are chosen in the final step using an improved dragonfly optimization algorithm. Finally, the best features are classified using an extreme learning machine (ELM). The experimental process is conducted on three publically available datasets and achieved an improved accuracy of 95.14, 94.89, and 95.94%, respectively. The comparison with several neural nets shows the improvement of proposed framework.
Young adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities acquire vocational skills with video prompting
Authors: Schroeder Carly , Ragotzy Steve , Poling Alan
Published: December 2022

Students with intellectual and other developmental disabilities often require substantial support to acquire the skills needed to secure work experience and paid employment. Prior findings suggest that video prompting is likely to be an effective and feasible strategy for establishing such skills. To evaluate this possibility in a special education transition program, we examined the effectiveness of a video prompting procedure in teaching 8 young adults with developmental disabilities to perform job‐related tasks (doing laundry, checking in to work, vacuuming, stripping bed). The intervention was effective with all participants. The skills maintained over 3 months, and the participants performed the tasks accurately in a new setting with different materials. Participants were reportedly satisfied with the intervention and deemed it easy to use.
Bisphenol A exposure induces testicular oxidative damage via FTO/m6A/Nrf2 axis during postnatal development in mice
Authors: Ling Yuanchao , Huang Xiaodi , Li Anlong , Zhang Jinzhi , Chen Jianmei , Ren Jiale , Liu Yanan , Xie Meina
Published: December 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA), a commonly used plasticizer in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, has been shown to induce male reproductive toxicity. However, the effects of BPA exposure on early testicular development have not been thoroughly studied, and the underlying mechanism is yet to be elucidated. In the current study, neonatal male mice were exposed to BPA at 0, 0.1, and 5 mg/kg, respectively, by daily subcutaneous injection during postnatal day (PND) 1–35 to explore its effects on testicular development at PND 36 (the end of the first round of spermatogenesis). Morphological analyses showed that BPA exposure significantly induced apoptosis of testicular cells (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) and reduced the thickness of seminiferous epithelium (p < 0.01). In addition, BPA exposure significantly decreased the total antioxidant capacity of testes and levels of transcription factor Nrf2 as well as its downstream antioxidant molecules of NQO1 and GPx‐1 (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). Furthermore, global m6A modifications of mRNAs were upregulated accompanied by declined m6A demethylase (FTO) in the testes of BPA groups (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). MeRIP‐quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) demonstrated that BPA exposure markedly increased the m6A modification of Nrf2 mRNA (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). These findings suggest that upregulation of m6A induced by inhibited FTO may be involved in BPA‐induced testicular oxidative stress and developmental injury during postnatal development, which provides a new idea to reveal the mechanism underlying BPA interfering with testicular development.
Characterization of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor–Induced Myasthenia Gravis Using the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Niimura Takahiro , Zamami Yoshito , Miyata Koji , Mikami Takahisa , Asada Mizuho , Fukushima Keijo , Yoshino Masaki , Mitsuboshi Satoru , Okada Naoto , Hamano Hirofumi , Sakurada Takumi , Matsuoka‐Ando Rie , Aizawa Fuka , Yagi Kenta , Goda Mitsuhiro , Chuma Masayuki , Koyama Toshihiro , Izawa‐Ishizawa Yuki , Yanagawa Hiroaki , Fujino Hiromichi , Yamanishi Yoshihiro , Ishizawa Keisuke
Published: December 2022

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare but fatal adverse event of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We assessed whether patient characteristics differed between those with ICI‐related myasthenia gravis and those with idiopathic myasthenia gravis. Reports from the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System were analyzed. Multivariate analyses were conducted to evaluate the associations between age, sex, and ICI treatment and the reporting rate of myasthenia gravis. Among 5 464 099 cases between 2011 and 2019, 53 447 were treated with ICIs. Myasthenia gravis was reported more often in ICI users. Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that the reporting rate of ICI‐related myasthenia gravis did not differ significantly between men and women; however, it was higher in older people than in younger people (adjusted odds ratio, 2.4 [95%CI, 1.84–3.13]). We also investigated useful signs for the early detection of myositis and myocarditis, which are fatal when overlapping with ICI‐related myasthenia gravis. Patients with elevated serum creatine kinase or troponin levels were more likely to have concurrent myositis and myocarditis. Unlike idiopathic myasthenia gravis, there was no sex difference in the development of ICI‐related myasthenia gravis, which may be more common in older people. Considering the physiological muscle weakness that occurs in the elderly, it may be necessary to monitor ICI‐related myasthenia gravis more closely in older people.
Short‐term effects of therapeutic hypothermia following hypoxia–ischemia in neonatal male and female rats
Authors: Zang Janaína , Colucci Anna Clara Machado , Tassinari Isadora D'Ávila , Nunes Ricardo Ribeiro , Andrade Mirella Kielek Galvan , Spies Francielle Fernandes , de Oliveira Maikel Rosa , Durán‐Carabali Luz Elena , Rigon Paula , Netto Carlos Alexandre , Paz Ana Helena , de Fraga Luciano Stürmer
Published: December 2022

Nowadays, the only treatment for human babies suffering from hypoxia–ischemia (HI) is therapeutic hypothermia (TH). However, a better understanding of the specific effects of TH in males and females is important to improve its clinical application. The present study evaluated the short‐term effects of TH on the brain injury and behavioral outcomes in male and female neonatal rats submitted to neonatal HI. Seven‐day‐old Wistar rats underwent a surgery for unilateral occlusion of the right common carotid artery and were exposed to a hypoxic atmosphere (8% oxygen) for 75 min. Then, the animals in the TH group were submitted to TH (scalp temperature of 32°C) for 5 h. In the behavioral tests, no remarkable differences triggered by HI or TH were observed relative to SHAM animals. Only females of the HI group presented lower latency to complete the righting reflex test. TH reduced the volume of brain injury in males, but not in females. The animals of the HI group showed a reduction in the number of neurons in the CA1 and dentate gyrus (DG) regions of the hippocampus and TH partially prevented neuronal death. In the CA1 region of the hippocampus, animals from the HI group showed more degenerating cells relative to the SHAM, which was reversed by TH. In the DG, animals from the HI group showed an increase in the number of degenerating neurons, which was partially reversed by TH only in males. Our data show that HI leads to a brain injury, which was attenuated by TH in a sex‐dependent way and clarify the importance of the assessment of males and females in order to outline specific strategies for the treatment of each sex in newborns suffering from HI.
Meet changes with constancy: Defence, antagonism, recovery, and immunity roles of extracellular vesicles in confronting SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Chen Xiaohang , Li Huifei , Song Haoyue , Wang Jie , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Han Pengcheng , Wang Xing
Published: December 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), has wrought havoc on the world economy and people's daily lives. The inability to comprehensively control COVID‐19 is due to the difficulty of early and timely diagnosis, the lack of effective therapeutic drugs, and the limited effectiveness of vaccines. The body contains billions of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which have shown remarkable potential in disease diagnosis, drug development, and vaccine carriers. Recently, increasing evidence has indicated that EVs may participate or assist the body in defence, antagonism, recovery and acquired immunity against SARS‐CoV‐2. On the one hand, intercepting and decrypting the general intelligence carried in circulating EVs from COVID‐19 patients will provide an important hint for diagnosis and treatment; on the other hand, engineered EVs modified by gene editing in the laboratory will amplify the effectiveness of inhibiting infection, replication and destruction of ever‐mutating SARS‐CoV‐2, facilitating tissue repair and making a better vaccine. To comprehensively understand the interaction between EVs and SARS‐CoV‐2, providing new insights to overcome some difficulties in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of COVID‐19, we conducted a rounded review in this area. We also explain numerous critical challenges that these tactics face before they enter the clinic, and this work will provide previous ‘meet change with constancy’ lessons for responding to future similar public health disasters.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) provide a ‘meet changes with constancy’ strategy to combat SARS‐CoV‐2 that spans defence, antagonism, recovery, and acquired immunity.

Targets for COVID‐19 diagnosis, therapy, and prevention of progression may be found by capture of the message decoding in circulating EVs.

Engineered and biomimetic EVs can boost effects of the natural EVs, especially anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2, targeted repair of damaged tissue, and improvement of vaccine efficacy.
Transactional sex among adolescent girls and young women enrolled in a cash plus intervention in rural Tanzania: a mixed‐methods study
Authors: Ranganathan Meghna , Quinones Sarah , Palermo Tia , Gilbert Ulrike , Kajula Lusajo ,   Tanzania Cash Plus Evaluation Team
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Transactional sex or material exchange for sex is associated with HIV infection among adolescent girls and young women in sub‐Saharan Africa. The motivations for engaging in transactional sex vary from the fulfilment of basic needs, to enhancing social status or for romantic reasons with the expectation that men should provide. Transactional sex is also associated with HIV risk behaviours, such as multiple sexual partners and other determinants of HIV risk, including partner violence and abuse, alcohol consumption and inconsistent condom use.

Methods

We use data from a mixed‐method, cluster randomised controlled trial of the Ujana Salama cash “plus” intervention in rural Tanzania. The data are from the first and third rounds of data collection (2017–2019). The impact evaluation consisted of a parallel mixed‐methods design where the quantitative and qualitative data collection occurred simultaneously, and integration of the findings was done during the discussion. We first examine contextual factors associated with transactional sex using multivariable logistic regression models and then estimate whether the “plus” intervention reduced transactional sex among adolescent girls and young women using analysis of covariance. We used thematic content analysis for analysing qualitative transcripts.

Results

The prevalence of transactional sex among unmarried adolescent girls and young women at round 3 was 26%. Findings show that increasing age is a risk factor for transactional sex (OR = 1.80; 95% CI: [1.50, 2.17]), staying in school was negatively associated with engagement in transactional sex (OR = 0.24; 95% CI: [0.14, 0.40]). The cash plus intervention showed no impacts on reducing transactional sex (β = 0.003, p = 0.905).

Conclusions

The mechanisms of impact for a cash plus intervention on transactional sex are complex; economic insecurity is an important driver of transactional sex and HIV infection, but psychosocial factors and gendered social norms need consideration in intervention development. Our findings suggest that combination prevention interventions to address the structural drivers of HIV infection should focus on efforts to increase school enrolment and completion.
Finding Growth Zones: Socially Just Leadership Learning, Developmental Readiness, And Zones of Proximal Development
Authors: Taylor Joshua K. , Manning‐Ouellette Amber
Published: December 2022

Socially just leadership learning is critical in developing leaders who can lead in equitable and just fashions. However, students can, both knowingly and unknowingly, participate in injustices by perpetuating dominant narratives and systems that marginalize and oppress others (Foste, 2019). Some students may exhibit resistance when engaging in socially just leadership learning (Cooper & Gause, 2007). To navigate resistance, leadership educators need to consider developmental readiness (Avolio, 2016). The authors adapt Vygotsky's (1978) zones of proximal development as a framework for assessing readiness in socially just leadership education, promoting brave spaces and empathy development as a means to expanding student readiness.
Critically analyzing the field of neuroscience and its therapeutic application with Black populations
Authors: Burt Isaac , Pankey Brianna
Published: December 2022

With the recent proliferation of neuroscience‐backed literature in counseling, the lack of connection to multiculturalism is disquieting. The critique is that there is a dearth on the application of neuroscience with clients of color, specifically Black populations. This article provides a critique of neuroscience and its implications and applicability for Black populations. The rationale for the specificity was to give counselors a concrete method to apply with an underserved populace, coupled with specific clinical considerations/guidelines.
A comprehensive single cell data analysis of lymphoblastoid cells reveals the role of super‐enhancers in maintaining EBV latency
Authors: Yan Bingyu , Wang Chong , Chakravorty Srishti , Zhang Zonghao , Kadadi Simran D. , Zhuang Yuxin , Sirit Isabella , Hu Yonghua , Jung Minwoo , Sahoo Subhransu S. , Wang Luopin , Shao Kunming , Anderson Nicole L. , Trujillo‐Ochoa Jorge L. , Briggs Scott D. , Liu Xing , Olson Matthew R. , Afzali Behdad , Zhao Bo , Kazemian Majid
Published: December 2022

We probed the lifecycle of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) on a cell‐by‐cell basis using single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) data from nine publicly available lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). While the majority of LCLs comprised cells containing EBV in the latent phase, two other clusters of cells were clearly evident and were distinguished by distinct expression of host and viral genes. Notably, both were high expressors of EBV LMP1/BNLF2 and BZLF1 compared to another cluster that expressed neither gene. The two novel clusters differed from each other in their expression of EBV lytic genes, including glycoprotein gene GP350. The first cluster, comprising GP350–LMP1hi cells, expressed high levels of HIF1A and was transcriptionally regulated by HIF1‐α. Treatment of LCLs with Pevonedistat, a drug that enhances HIF1‐α signaling, markedly induced this cluster. The second cluster, containing GP350+LMP1hi cells, expressed EBV lytic genes. Host genes that are controlled by super‐enhancers (SEs), such as transcription factors MYC and IRF4, had the lowest expression in this cluster. Functionally, the expression of genes regulated by MYC and IRF4 in GP350+LMP1hi cells were lower compared to other cells. Indeed, induction of EBV lytic reactivation in EBV+ AKATA reduced the expression of these SE‐regulated genes. Furthermore, CRISPR‐mediated perturbation of the MYC or IRF4 SEs in LCLs induced the lytic EBV gene expression, suggesting that host SEs and/or SE target genes are required for maintenance of EBV latency. Collectively, our study revealed EBV‐associated heterogeneity among LCLs that may have functional consequence on host and viral biology.
Optimizing the synthesis of interleukin‐12‐loaded PLGA nanospheres (rmIL‐12ns) via ultrasonication for treatment of metastatic osteosarcoma
Authors: Lacinski Ryan A. , Markel Justin E. , Pratt Hillary G. , Reinbeau Ryan M. , Stewart Amanda , Santiago Stell P. , Lindsey Brock A.
Published: December 2022

Clinical trials exploring bolus intravenous delivery of interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) for treatment of solid tumors ultimately failed due to lack of clinical response and severe dose‐limiting toxicities. The present study was conducted to evaluate whether recombinant murine IL‐12 (rmIL‐12) could be successfully encapsulated within Poly (D, l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) nanospheres (rmIL‐12ns) for safe and effective systemic delivery at pharmacologic scale. Optimal fabrication of rmIL‐12ns occurs with dichloromethane as the organic solvent and emulsion formation via ultrasonication at 50% power (250 W sonicator) for 10 s (50W10s). We then determined whether utilization of synthesis modifiers including fetal bovine serum (FBS), magnesium hydroxide [Mg(OH)2], trehalose, or the surfactants polysorbate 80 and Span 60 alone or in combination could increase the encapsulation efficiency (EE) and/or modify the burst elution profile characteristic of the 50W10s rmIL‐12ns formulation. The greatest EEs compared to the unmodified formulation were measured with modifications containing the surfactants polysorbate 80 and Span 60 (surfactant: 28.3 ± 6.10%, p = 0.29 and Surf/FBS: 85.4 ± 2.19%, p = 0.039). The Surf/FBS formulation was further modified for in vivo murine injection by substituting FBS with mouse serum albumin (MSA). The resulting Surf/MSA rmIL‐12ns were then characterized before delivery at three doses (0.1, 1, and 10 mg rmIL‐12ns) in our established murine model of metastatic osteosarcoma to assess efficacy. Preliminary results suggested no evidence of disease with delivery of the 0.1 mg dose in 75% of mice (3 of 4) versus a nontreated historical control (2 of 34).
Ultrasound‐assisted extraction of tamarind xyloglucan: an effective approach to reduce the viscosity and improve the α‐amylase inhibition of xyloglucan
Authors: Jiang Xiujuan , Yang Tian , Li Yingting , Liu Shuyang , Liu Yuanyuan , Chen Daiwen , Qin Wen , Zhang Qing , Lin Derong , Liu Yuntao , Fang Zhengfeng , Chen Hong
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Water extraction (WE) is the classical extraction method for tamarind xyloglucan (XyG), but its low yield, high viscosity and poor dispersion in aqueous solution are not conducive to the industrial applications. To promote the industrial application of tamarind XyG, an ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE) method for extracting low‐viscosity XyG from tamarind kernel powder was proposed.

RESULTS

The yield of UAE‐XyG was higher (502.33 ± 0.036 g kg−1) than that of WE‐XyG (163.43 ± 0.085 g kg−1). UAE reduced the molecular weight, monosaccharide content and apparent viscosity of XyG. The hypoglycemic experiment in vitro showed that UAE‐XyG had a stronger inhibitory effect on α‐amylase activity than WE‐XyG, but its glucose dialysis retardation index was lower.

CONCLUSION

In sum, UAE is a type of extraction method that could effectively improve the yield of XyG and reduce its viscosity to expand its application without reducing its physiological activity. UAE exhibits an excellent potential in the extraction of XyG. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mapping land degradation and sand and dust generation hotspots by spatiotemporal data fusion analysis: A case‐study in the southern Gobi (Mongolia)
Authors: Kim Jungrack , Dorjsuren Munkhzul , Zucca Claudio , Purevjav Gomboluudev
Published: December 2022

The ongoing desertification and aeolian erosion processes in the southern Gobi Desert are ranked as one of the most significant global environmental disasters. In this study, we analyzed the decadal progress of eolian erosion in the southern Gobi Desert and traced key factors controlling intensified land degradation (LD) and sand and dust (SD) generation employing satellite data and climatic variables. Columnar dust mass density from climatic data re‐analyses as a major SD tracer was combined with the Mann–Kendall (MK) method and the empirical orthogonal function processor. Validation was performed by using ground data sets and field evidence from reference locations. The results revealed that (1) LD/SD patterns and hotspots in the Gobi Desert are significantly controlled by the distribution and trend of precipitation; (2) climatic conditions in the Mongolian Gobi Desert have shifted towards an unfavourable direction with respect to the LD/SD occurrence; (3) surface conditions in southeastern Mongolia have somehow decoupled from the weather factors and the transition zone between the desert and the vegetated terrain has gradually expanded probably due to anthropogenic activities. The correlation analyses between all candidate driving factors of LD/SD indicated that a major control mechanism of spatiotemporal migration of LD/SD in the southern Gobi Desert is the change in precipitation, whereas anthropogenic activity holds a secondary control. The results obtained can be used to prioritize intervention zones in the frame of land use planning processes aimed at adapting to climate change and mitigating LD and SD generation in source areas.
Long‐term changes in dissolved inorganic carbon across boreal streams caused by altered hydrology
Authors: Rehn Lukas , Sponseller Ryan A. , Laudon Hjalmar , Wallin Marcus B.
Published: December 2022

A major challenge for predicting future landscape carbon (C) balances is to understand how environmental changes affect the transfer of C from soils to surface waters. Here, we evaluated 14 yr (2006–2019) of stream dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) concentration and export data for 14 nested boreal catchments that are subject to climatic changes, and compared long‐term patterns in DIC with patterns in dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Few streams displayed significant concentration or export trends in DIC at annual time scales. However, most streams showed decreasing DIC concentrations during spring flood over this 14‐yr period, and about half showed declines during summer. Although annual runoff has generally not changed during this period, an intra‐annual redistribution in runoff, with increases in spring flood discharge, explained much of the seasonal changes in DIC concentration. We observed negative DIC–discharge relationships in most streams, suggesting source limitation of DIC, whereas DOC mostly showed chemostatic behavior. The different trends and patterns observed for DIC vs. DOC underpin intra‐annual changes in the composition of the total C pool (i.e., the DIC/DOC ratio) and reflect fundamental differences in how these C forms are produced, stored in riparian soils, and mobilized by hydrological events. Collectively, our results highlight the sensitivity of riverine DIC to the intra‐annual distribution of runoff, but also important heterogeneity across the network that suggests local processes can also modify the mobilization of DIC in boreal landscapes.
Effect of copper nanoparticle concentration on tribological performances of cylinder liner piston ring
Authors: Yin Huabing , Zhang Xuecheng , Guo Zhiwei , Liu Zhongzhi , Rao Xiang , Yuan Chengqing
Published: December 2022

The performance of cylinder liner piston ring (CLPR) that worked under harsh conditions significantly affected the reliability of diesel engines. Nano‐copper lubricant additives have recently been introduced due to their good anti‐wear properties. This study aims to gain insights into the interactions between concentrations of nano‐copper lubricant additives and the tribological performance of CLPR. Tests are performed on a reciprocating sliding test rig under different operating conditions, and the tribological performances are characterized by the friction coefficient, wear mass losses, and morphologies of worn surface. The experimental results indicated that the optimal concentration of nano‐copper additives is 2 wt%. Additionally, deposition of the Cu nanoparticles on the worn surface during the friction process facilitates the formation of the mending layer. These findings would aid to provide a technical reference for the application of nano‐copper additives in diesel engines.
Bearing capacity factors of cone‐shaped footing in meshfree
Authors: Phuor Ty , Ganz Avshalom , Trapper Pavel A.
Published: December 2022

Unlike the flat base foundations, the determination of the bearing resistance of the cone‐shaped footing in finite element analysis (FEA) might not be carried out without considering the interface model. In addition, the simulations of the FEA is hardly achieved with a large system due to the assembly technique. So, the alternative should be considered. Therefore, this paper proposes a new method for computing the , and factors of the bearing capacity of the rough and smooth cone‐shaped foundations by combining the skew boundary condition as the interface model incorporated with the viscoplastic strain method‐based meshfree obeying the yield equation of the Mohr‐Coulomb (MC). Thus, the factors can be determined exclusively and reported to reach a close agreement with the published data; nevertheless, the discrepancies are also provided. The plastic flow of the soil mechanics is discussed thoroughly. In addition, the effects of soil friction angle (ϕ) and cone‐shaped angle (β) on the factors are inspected systematically. Accordingly, the conservation of the Terzaghi's superposition assumption is confirmed, and the bearing capacity factor charts can be established for various combinations of 5o – 45o and 30o – 180o. Therefore, it may conclude that the results produced by these techniques and the techniques themselves may be applied confidently for solving geotechnical problems, especially for computing the bearing resistance of the soil.
Integrating multimodality magnetic resonance imaging to the Allen Mouse Brain Common Coordinate Framework
Authors: Wang Nian , Maharjan Surendra , Tsai Andy P. , Lin Peter B. , Qi Yi , Wallace Abigail , Jewett Megan , Liu Fang , Landreth Gary E. , Oblak Adrian L.
Published: December 2022

High‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) affords unique image contrasts to nondestructively probe the tissue microstructure; validation of MRI findings with conventional histology is essential to better understand the MRI contrasts. However, the dramatic difference in the spatial resolution and image contrast of these two techniques impedes accurate comparison between MRI metrics and traditional histology. To better validate various MRI metrics, we acquired whole mouse brain multigradient recalled‐echo and multishell diffusion MRI datasets at 25‐μm isotropic resolution. The recently developed Allen Mouse Brain Common Coordinate Framework (CCFv3) provides opportunities to integrate multimodal and multiscale datasets of the whole mouse brain in a common three‐dimensional (3D) space. The T2*, quantitative susceptibility mapping, diffusion tensor imaging, and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging parameters were compared with both serial two‐photon tomography images and 3D Nissl staining images in the CCFv3 at the same spatial resolution. The correlation between MRI and Nissl staining strongly depends on different metrics and different regions of the brain. Integrating different imaging modalities to the same space may substantially improve our understanding of the complexity of the brain at different scales.
Patients', relatives' and nurses' experiences of palliative care on an advanced care ward in a nursing home setting in Norway
Authors: Mæhre Kjersti Sunde , Bergdahl Elisabeth , Hemberg Jessica
Published: December 2022

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients, relatives and nurses were involved in this study.

Aim

The aim was to explore patients', relatives' and nurses' experiences of palliative care on an advanced care ward in a nursing home setting after implementation of the Coordination Reform in Norway.

Design

Secondary analysis of qualitative interviews.

Methods

Data from interviews with 19 participants in a nursing home setting: severely ill older patients in palliative care, relatives and nurses. Data triangulation influenced by Miles and Huberman was used.

Results

The overall theme was “Being in an unfamiliar and uncaring culture leaves end‐of‐life patients in desperate need of holistic, person‐centred and co‐creative care”. The main themes were: “Desire for engaging palliative care in a hopeless and lonely situation”, “Patients seeking understanding of end‐of‐life care in an unfamiliar setting” and “Absence of sufficient palliative care and competence creates insecurity”. The patients and relatives included in this study experienced an uncaring culture, limited resources and a lack of palliative care competence, which is in direct contrast to that which is delineated in directives, guidelines and recommendations. Our findings reveal the need for policymakers to be more aware of the challenges that may arise when healthcare reforms are implemented. Future research on palliative care should include patients', relatives' and nurses' perspectives.
Triangulation study of needs assessment of people with severe mental illness in “follow‐up” day hospital settings
Authors: Torkar Tanja , Homar Vesna , Švab Vesna
Published: December 2022

Aim

The aim of research was to assess the needs of patients with severe mental illness (SMI) attending follow‐up day hospital (DH) programmes from the patients', relatives' and experts' perspective.

Design

This triangulation research relies on three sources of information and two techniques of data collection.

Methods

Qualitative research was conducted comprising semi‐structured interviews (n = 15) and focus groups (n = 4) in three sequential rounds, triangulating patients', relatives' and experts' views. A content analysis was carried out.

Results

Study reveals a diverse spectrum of needs of SMI patients in follow‐up DH programmes. The analysis yielded six themes: optimal daily functioning, work and educational activities, social network inclusion, continuous treatment, support and guidance, long‐term care. DH programmes should assess the needs of patients with SMI and be adapted according to the findings. In addition to clinical treatment, requirements for continuous treatment, psychological and social needs, therapeutic relationship in less‐restrictive settings should be considered.
Positivity‐preserving scheme without separated method for 2D convection–diffusion equations on polygonal meshes
Authors: Lan Bin , Li Haiyan , Dong Jianqiang
Published: December 2022

We present a finite volume scheme for 2D steady convection–diffusion equations on arbitrary convex polygonal meshes. The method uses auxiliary unknowns on the cell‐edge and cell‐node of the mesh, and the continuous flux is computed to be a two‐point nonlinear flux. Since the transpose of the coefficient matrix is an M‐matrix, it is guaranteed that the scheme is positive. We propose a new strategy, which aims that providing a scheme without separated method to compute the value on the cell‐edge without previous reconstruct. Numerical results show that our scheme is positive on polygonal meshes for both diffusion‐dominated and convection‐dominated problems and has second‐order accuracy for solutions.
Understanding the role of parents' social connectedness in children's behavioral wellbeing in low‐income communities: A study protocol
Authors: Plesko Corinne M. , Tobin Karin , Gross Deborah
Published: December 2022

Group‐based parent‐training (PT) is one of the most common and well‐established approaches for strengthening parenting skills and reducing child behavior problems. When offered in school settings, the social connections formed among participants may generate additional benefits for parents, schools, and children. However, to date there has been limited research on the potential benefits or harms associated with social connectedness (SC) in group‐based PT. This paper describes the study protocol for an ongoing National Institute of Nursing Research‐funded mixed‐methods study that aims to examine the extent to which group‐based PT, delivered in elementary schools serving families from predominantly low‐resource communities, generates SC among parents and if SC is associated with greater (a) reduction in child behavior problems and (b) engagement in their child's education. Using a prospective descriptive design, the study is nested within an ongoing quasi‐experimental parent study evaluating the group‐based PT intervention, the Chicago Parent Program (CPP) in Baltimore City schools. Challenges for this study include recruitment and retention of parents with constraints caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic. The study uses multiple methods and informants to understand the potential mechanisms underlying PT group effects and results have the potential to serve as an important foundation for future studies focused on SC, its impacts on parent‐child outcomes in low‐resource settings, and strategies for strengthening SC in health promotion interventions.

Patient or Public Contribution

Chicago Parent Program was developed with input from an advisory board of parents. Additionally, the parent study protocol was written and is co‐led in partnership with a community organization.
COVID‐19 Infodemic: A study on the Fragile Five countries
Authors: Boyacı Yıldırım Merve
Published: December 2022

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, many rumors and conspiracy theories spread in various media outlets. The purpose of this study is to reveal the nature of the misinformation detected by fact check platforms that spread in the Fragile Five countries. To determine the themes of misinformation about COVID‐19 and from which media it is disseminated are a possible way to prevent it. The data of the study were obtained from International Fact‐checking Network's CoronaVirusFacts database. One thousand seven hundred thirty‐four piece of misinformation collected by web scraping method during the period January 24, 2020 to November 14, 2020 and analyzed with MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2020. As a result of the research, it was found that rumors (96.3%) spread more in the Fragile Five countries than conspiracy theories (3.7%). While the main theme of the rumors is about illness (26.9%) and diagnosis‐treatment (25%), conspiracy theories are mostly related to the cause of the disease (68.8%). 53.06% of misinformation was spread through the Facebook platform. 15.32% on Twitter; 13.34% on WhatsApp. Misinformation has been heavily false (85.12%) in both rumor and conspiracy theories. In the second place, misleading (10.09%) news spread.
Extracranial germ cell tumours in children and adolescents: Results from the French TGM13 protocol
Authors: Faure‐Conter Cecile , Orbach Daniel , Sudour‐Bonnange Hélène , Verité Cecile , Mansuy Ludovic , Rome Angelique , Dumesnil Cecile , Thebaud Estelle , Renard Marleen , Hameury Frederic , Flechon Aude , Blanc Ellen , Dijoud Frederique , Fresneau Brice , Chabaud Sylvie
Published: December 2022

Background

Chemotherapy for non‐seminomatous germ cell tumours (NSGCT) exposes to dose‐dependent toxicities. The TGM13‐NS protocol (EudraCT 2013‐004039‐60) aimed to decrease the chemotherapy burden compared to the previous TGM95 protocol while maintaining the 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) at 80% or more.

Procedure

Patients less than 19 years of age with disseminated NSGCT were enrolled (May 2014 to May 2019) and stratified into four groups: two intermediate‐risk (IR: localised tumour with low tumour markers [TM]) groups treated with VBP (vinblastine–bleomycin–cisplatin): three courses for IR1 (ovarian tumour any age/testis tumour less than or equal to 10 years) and four courses for IR2 (extragonadal tumour 10 years or less) groups, and two high‐risk (HR: metastatic and/or high TM) groups treated with etoposide–cisplatin and either ifosfamide (VIP) or bleomycin (BEP): three courses for HR1 (ovarian tumour any age/testis tumour less than or equal to 10 years and low TM/testis tumour more than 10 years and very low TM) groups and four courses for HR2 (remainder) groups.

Results

One hundred fifteen patients were included: median age of 12.8 years (0.4–18.9); tumour sites: 44 ovaries, 37 testes and 34 extragonadal. The 5‐year EFS and overall survival (OS) were 87% (95% CI: 80–92) and 95% (89–98), respectively (median follow‐up: 3.5 years, range: 0.2–5.9), similar to those of the TGM95 protocol (5‐year EFS 89% (84–93), 5‐year OS 93% (89–95), p = .561). The 5‐year EFS were 93% (95% CI: 80–98), 88% (71–95) and 79% (62–90) for ovarian, testicular and extragonadal tumours, respectively. The 5‐year EFS varied (p = .02) according to the risk groups: 90% (66–97), 64% (30–85), 95% (72–99) and 87% (74–94) for IR1, IR2, HR1 and HR2, respectively. TM decline adjusted to tumour site, and alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) level revealed a prognostic impact of time to normalisation on EFS: HR = 1.03 (1.003–1.007).

Conclusion

Risk‐adapted and globally decreased chemotherapy burden maintains excellent outcomes, exclusive of the IR2 group, which warrants more intensive chemotherapy.
Tribological properties of cyclic phenylene sulfide heat‐treated carbon fiber/polyphenylene sulfide composites
Authors: Qiu Xiaotao , Gu Aiqun , Tang Siqi , Tang Wenjian , Yu Zili
Published: December 2022

High‐performance self‐lubricating polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)/carbon fiber (CF) composites were obtained by treating the CF surface with heat‐treated cyclic phenylene sulfide oligomers (CPS). The influence of CPS treat conditions on the structure and properties such as mechanical and tribological performance of the composites were studied in detail. The results indicate that the PPS/CPS‐sized CF composites exhibit higher mechanical strength and better tribological performance than the PPS/original CF composites, especially under the condition of higher loads and speeds (300 N × 200 rpm and 200 N × 200 rpm). The performance enhancement is reasonably ascribed to the improved compatibility of the modified CF with the PPS matrix. Further structural analysis reveals that the modified CF treated at 300°C under N2(CF‐300N) has the most similar structure to the PPS matrix, which makes the comprehensive performances of PPS/CF‐300N composites superior to the products obtained under the other heat‐treatment conditions.
Nanotechnology approach for exploring the enhanced bioactivities, biochemical characterisation and phytochemistry of freshly prepared Mentha arvensis L. nanosuspensions
Authors: Sahar Pakiza , Ali Tayyab , Naeem Muhammad , Hussain Fatma
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Mentha arvensis L. is the most valuable medicinal plant that possesses anti‐inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. There are few studies available in the literature about M. arvensis L nanoparticles, but their nanosuspensions‐based information remains unclear and needs further study.

Objective

This study was designed to explore the nanotechnology approach for biochemical characterisation, enhanced bioactivities, and photochemistry of freshly prepared M. arvensis L. nanosuspensions.

Methodology

Nanosuspensions of M. arvensis L. leaves were prepared by following the nanoprecipitation method. In this study, we performed structural and biochemical characterisation through analyses of Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), phase contrast microscopy and enhanced bioactivities; antioxidant, alpha‐amylase inhibition, glycation inhibition and cytotoxicity assays.

Results

FTIR analysis revealed the presence of phenols, amines hydroxyl, carboxylic acid, alkenes, alkenes and alkynes. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of chlorogenic acid, a principal phenolic component. Biofilm inhibition activity revealed that the growth formation of Escherichia coli inhibited up to 62.4% and 53.35% by leaves extract and nanosuspension, respectively. However, the growth of Staphylococcus aureus was not inhibited by nanosuspension and extract. Nanosuspension and extract exhibited 155.92 mg, 108.11 mg gallic acids per 100 g of dry weight total phenolic content and 233.44 mg, 163.933 mg catechin per 100 g of dried weight total flavonoid content in extract and nanosuspension, respectively. Antioxidant activity revealed the scavenging potential of nanosuspensions and extract was 41.01% and 12.07%, respectively. Alpha‐amylase inhibiting activity of nanosuspension and extract was 36% and 33%, while, the antiglycation potential of nanosuspension and extract were 41.68% and 35.18%, respectively. Nanosuspensions and extract showed maximum hemolytic activity at 12.91% and 17.18%, respectively.

Conclusion

These cost‐effective nanoformulations could serve as a platform for therapeutic purposes in controlling the high risk of infectious diseases and designing efficient plant nanosuspensions by discovering novel bioactive compounds in an adequate manner.
Comparison of Lycium barbarum fruits polysaccharide from different regions of China by acidic hydrolysate fingerprinting‐based HILIC‐ELSD‐ESI‐TOF‐MS combined with chemometrics analysis
Authors: Zhao Hengqiang , Wang Ling , Yu Yi , Yang Jian , Zhang Xiaobo , Zhao Zhiguo , Ma Fangli , Hu Minghua , Wang Xiao
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Lycium barbarum is an edible fruit widely used in herbal medicines and as a functional food. Polysaccharide is one of the most important active ingredients. Only L. barbarum grown in the Ningxia region of China are officially recognised as suitable for use in traditional Chinese medicine, but the systematic comparison of L. barbarum polysaccharide between Ningxia and the other growing regions of China has been rarely reported.

Objective

To compare the difference of L. barbarum polysaccharide from different grown regions of China.

Methods

A chemical fingerprint of L. barbarum polysaccharide hydrolysates was established based on controlled acidolysis combined with hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography‐evaporative light scattering detection‐electrospray ionisation‐time‐of‐flight‐mass spectrometry (HILIC‐ELSD‐ESI‐TOF‐MS). Then, it was employed for the comparison of L. barbarum samples from different geographical origins of China combined with chemometrics analysis.

Results

Six monosaccharides [rhamnose (Rha), xylose (Xyl), arabinose (Ara), mannose (Man), glucose (Glu), galactose (Gal)] were qualitatively and quantitatively determined and four glycoconjugates were preliminarily identified from the hydrolysates. Content determination for the polysaccharide and monosaccharide indicated obvious geographical features. The HILIC‐ELSD fingerprint combined with partial least squares‐discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) was able to differentiate L. barbarum samples from Ningxia, Xinjiang, Gansu and Qinghai regions with 89.19% classification accuracy. Orthogonal projection to latent structure discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) was able to differentiate between samples from Ningxia and those from the other three growing regions, polysaccharide and Ara were the potential chemical markers.

Conclusions

These findings form the basis of a reliable method to trace the region of origin of L. barbarum sample and thereby, improve the quality control of L. barbarum therapeutic polysaccharides.
Unveiling the effect of solvent polarity on the excited state intramolecular proton transfer and hydrogen bond mechanisms of DHP
Authors: Song Yao‐Dong , Wang Qian‐Ting , Chen Li
Published: December 2022

In this present work, using density functional theory and time‐dependent density functional theory, the mechanism of excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) of 2‐(4′‐diethylamino‐2′‐hydroxyphenyl)‐1Himidazo‐[4,5‐b] pyridine (DHP) in ether, 1‐butanol, 1‐propanol, and acetonitrile phases was systematically studied. The optimized geometry includes both normal and tautomeric structure. The fluorescence spectrum and absorption spectrum calculated based on geometric structure agree with the experimental data. The data of bond lengths and bond angles related to hydrogen bonds indicate that hydrogen bonds are strengthened in the S1 state. Frontier molecular orbital analysis combined with Hirshfeld's method shows a redistribution of electron density in different solvents. The infrared vibrational spectra show that the hydrogen bond strength decreases with the increase of solvent polarity. Finally, through the analysis of the potential energy surface, it is found that the excited state intramolecular proton transfer becomes more and more difficult as the polarity of the solvent increases.
Web based resource for Statistical Consultants in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Phillips Alan , Smith Karen
Published: December 2022

The intention of this article is to highlight sources of web‐based reference material and software that will aid consulting statisticians when designing clinical trials. The article includes websites that provide links to explanation of statistical concepts for non‐statisticians, regulatory guidelines, and free statistical study design software.
Comparative QSAR modeling of 2‐phenylindol derivatives for predicting the anticancer activity using genetic algorithm multiple linear regression and back‐propagation‐artificial neural network techniques
Authors: Bahrami Samira , Shafiei Fatemeh , Marjani Azam , Isfahani Tahereh Momeni
Published: December 2022

Quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) studies on a series of 2‐phenylindole derivatives as anticancer drugs were performed to choice the important descriptor, which is responsible for their anticancer activity (expressed as pIC50). The geometry optimizations were performed on the structures using Gaussian software with the density functional B3LYP and 6‐311G(d,p) basis sets. Dragon software was used to calculate molecular descriptors, and the genetic algorithm (GA) procedure and backward regression were used to proper selection of the most relevant descriptors. The backward multiple linear regression (BW‐MLR) and backpropagation‐artificial artificial neural network (BP‐ANN) were carried out to design QSAR models. The squared correlation coefficient (R2) and the root mean squared error (RMSE) values of the GA‐MLR model were calculated to be 0.2843 and 0.7001, respectively. The BP‐ANN model was the most powerful, with the square of predictive correlation coefficient R2pred, root mean square error (RMSE), and absolute average deviation (AAD) which was equal to 0.9416, 0.0238, and 0.0099, respectively.