bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The development, implementation, and evaluation of a medical student peer teaching training curriculum during a high‐fidelity prehospital trauma simulation
Authors: Rudinsky Sherri L. , Spalding Carmen , Conley Sean P. , Everett Lauren , Cole Rebekah
Published: August 2022

Objectives

While peer teaching has been found to be an effective technique during simulation, no peer teaching training curriculum (PTTC) has been developed for simulation‐based learning. The objective of this study, therefore, was to develop, implement, and evaluate a PTTC during a high‐fidelity trauma simulation.

Methods

When developing the PTTC, we combined several validated learning models for teaching and learning procedural skills. We then implemented it over 6 days in two phases: instructional (learning how to teach) and experiential (practicing teaching). Our research team conducted a qualitative evaluation to evaluate the effectiveness of the PTTC. We analyzed written self‐reflections from 20 second‐year medical students who completed the PTTC. Using an iterative inductive approach to data analysis, our research team first individually coded the reflection papers. We then met to define and categorize the codes into themes. Finally, we compared these themes to the PTTC's objectives to evaluate the curriculum's effectiveness.

Results

The following themes emerged from the data: 1) learning through teaching; 2) self‐actualization as an educator; and 3) role of physician as leader, advocate, and educator. The students described how the peer teaching experience improved their own procedural knowledge and skills. They also reported an increase in their leadership and communication skills as they effectively provided guidance and feedback to their peers, which led to their self‐actualization as an educator. This self‐actualization inspired the peer teachers' professional identity formation as leaders and educators in medicine.

Conclusions

Based on these themes, we found our PTTC to be an effective curricular design. Our results reinforce previously described benefits to both peer teachers and learners in regard to medical knowledge and skills acquisition and furthers the academic emergency medicine community's understanding of how students' involvement as peer teachers in simulation‐based education impacts their professional development.
Automated image analysis as a tool to measure individualised growth and population structure in Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Authors: Tuckey Nicholas P. L. , Ashton David T. , Li Jiakai , Lin Harris T. , Walker Seumas P. , Symonds Jane E. , Wellenreuther Maren
Published: August 2022

Selective breeding programmes depend on high‐quality measurements of phenotype and genotype with repeated individualised phenotype measurements throughout the life cycle being optimal. Recent advances in electronics and computer vision technologies offer opportunities to improve both the quality, quantity and individualisation of repeated phenotypic measurements, but remain underutilised in aquaculture breeding programmes. In this study, we compare manual measurements of phenotypic traits of Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) with digital images and an automated software analysis pipeline written in the Python® programming language using the OpenCV machine vision library. Manual measurements of length, girth and weight of passive integrated transponder‐tagged individuals were compared with image‐based measures of 738 individuals over a time span from June–December 2019. Linear regressions showed strong correlations between manual and automated measurements for fork length, girth and weight (R2 = 0.989, R2 = 0.918, R2 = 0.987, respectively). Image‐based software measurements proved powerful for tracking general population changes in growth over the study period while retaining insights about subpopulations deviating from the average (e.g. losing weight). Taken together, our study demonstrates that image‐analysis can be used to estimate fish growth traits with a high degree of precision, requires reduced labour and demonstrates that additional knowledge can be gained through tracking individuals throughout production to harvest.
Classification of spatio‐temporal patterns in charging and discharging of Li‐ion batteries
Authors: Sheintuch Moshe , Nekhamkina Olga
Published: August 2022

We classify the dynamic patterns that emerge in charging or discharging of Li‐ion batteries, under galvanostatic conditions, using simulations of the two‐phase one‐dimensional (1D) porous electrode model. This work examines the effect of the exchange current function, R0(X), which expresses the nature of kinetics. This extends our previous study with R0 = 1 where the same pattern emerges in charging or discharging, whether as a homogeneous or a step‐wise process made of multiple symmetry breaking events. With commonly‐used asymmetric R0(X), the emerging patterns may be one of the two above or as fronts that follow single SB event and the lithiation/delithiation behaviors are different. These effects are clear when parameters are uniform; nonuniformity leads to noise that mask the behavior. The full four‐variable model exhibits SB, even in absence of noise, since the liquid potential gradient () works like a perturbation. This similarity allows us to derive approximations to the full model behavior.
Super tough interpenetrating polymeric network of styrene butadiene rubber‐poly(methyl methacrylate) incorporated with general purpose carbon black (N660)
Authors: James Jose , Thomas George Vazhathara , Sisanth Krishanagegham Sidharathan , Maria Hanna Joseph , Rouxel Didier , Strankowski Michal , Kalarikkal Nandakumar , Laroze David , Oluwafemi Oluwatobi Samuel , Volova Tatiana , Thomas Sabu
Published: August 2022

A classic set of polymeric interpenetrating polymeric network (IPN) micro‐composites has been fabricated using an elastomer—styrene butadiene rubber [SBR], a thermoplastic poly(methyl methacrylate)‐PMMA and with carbon black (CB)‐N660 as a filler and reinforcing agent. This synthesized IPN composite can be promisingly employed as a toughened plastic and vibrational damper in a wide service range with excellent thermal stability, optimum storage modulus, and co‐continuous morphological pattern. transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and Raman imaging are successfully employed for the morphological characterization. Mechanical, thermal, viscoelastic, and damping features of IPN composites have been carefully studied in detail and compared with parent polymers, corresponding IPN, and composites. The double network formation of filler CB and plastic component PMMA form an intercalated morphological pattern in the SBR matrix with 20 times enhancement in toughness value compared with neat SBR. The fabrication and characterization adopted in this work can definitely act as a platform for the design of new toughened material with excellent performance and cost‐effectiveness.
Atypical structural connectivity of language networks in autism spectrum disorder: A meta‐analysis of diffusion tensor imaging studies
Authors: Li Min , Wang Yide , Tachibana Masaya , Rahman Shafiur , Kagitani‐Shimono Kuriko
Published: August 2022

Patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often show pervasive and complex language impairments that are closely associated with aberrant structural connectivity of language networks. However, the characteristics of white matter connectivity in ASD have remained inconclusive in previous diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies. The current meta‐analysis aimed to comprehensively elucidate the abnormality in language‐related white matter connectivity in individuals with ASD. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Medline databases to identify relevant studies. The standardized mean difference was calculated to measure the pooled difference in DTI metrics in each tract between the ASD and typically developing (TD) groups. The moderating effects of age, sex, language ability, and symptom severity were investigated using subgroup and meta‐regression analysis. Thirty‐three DTI studies involving 831 individuals with ASD and 836 TD controls were included in the meta‐analysis. ASD subjects showed significantly lower fractional anisotropy or higher mean diffusivity across language‐associated tracts than TD controls. These abnormalities tended to be more prominent in the left language networks than in the right. In addition, children with ASD exhibit more pronounced and pervasive disturbances in white matter connectivity than adults. These results support the under‐connectivity hypothesis and demonstrate the widespread abnormal microstructure of language‐related tracts in patients with ASD. Otherwise, white matter abnormalities in the autistic brain could vary depending on the developmental stage and hemisphere.

Lay Summary

This meta‐analysis explored abnormalities in white matter connectivity in language networks of individuals with ASD. Significantly reduced white matter integrity was found in all language‐associated tracts in subjects with ASD compared with TD controls. In addition, structural disturbances of language networks in the autistic brain exhibit a leftward tendency, and more prominent abnormalities are observed in younger people with ASD than in adults.
A TGF‐α and TGF‐β1 Poloxamer‐based micelle/hydrogel composite: A promising novel candidate for the treatment of anosmia
Authors: Moradi Salah , Alizadeh Rafieh , Yazdian Fatemeh , Farhadi Mohammad , Kamrava Seyed Kamran , Simorgh Sara
Published: August 2022

Anosmia is the inability to smell or loss of the sense of smell. It can reduce your ability to detect the smell of smoke, gas leaks, or spoiled food, as well as hinder the quality of life related to social interactions and feelings of well‐being. In the current study, a drug delivery composite was designed to cure anosmia and its efficiency in delivering transforming growth factor alpha (TGF‐α) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF‐β1) to the nasal cavity was evaluated. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was used as a model protein for encapsulation into Poloxamers 407 micelles. For the optimization of the BSA‐micelle formulation, a two‐parameter five‐level central composite design (CCD) was applied. The BSA‐micelle was optimized with a particle size of 41 nm, drug loading of 8%, and encapsulation efficiency of 74%. Further, the BSA‐micelle was characterized by FESEM, TEM, and FTIR. The analysis of release profile suggested high‐paced free BSA release compared to the gradual and prolonged release of BSA‐micelle/hydrogel and BSA‐micelles. The cytotoxicity assay demonstrated the safety of TGF‐α and TGF‐β1‐micelles/hydrogel. Moreover, it was observed that TGF‐α and TGF‐β1 within the hydrogels promote cellular viability and human olfactory ectomesenchymal stem cell OE‐MSCs proliferation. In conclusion, According to the results of our study, the TGF‐α and TGF‐β1‐micelle/hydrogel‐based delivery system provides a suitable alternative for anosmia treatment.
Pivotal roles of tumor‐draining lymph nodes in the abscopal effects from combined immunotherapy and radiotherapy
Authors: Liu Zhaoyun , Yu Zhiyong , Chen Dawei , Verma Vivek , Yuan Chenxi , Wang Minglei , Wang Fei , Fan Qing , Wang Xingwu , Li Yang , Ma Yuequn , Wu Meng , Yu Jinming
Published: August 2022

Background

Currently, due to synergy enhancement of anti‐tumor effects and potent stimulation of abscopal effects, combination therapy with irradiation and programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐1/PD‐L1) immune checkpoint inhibition (immuno‐radiotherapy, iRT) has revolutionized the therapeutic guidelines. It has been demonstrated that tumor‐draining lymph nodes (TDLN) are essential for effective antitumor immunity induced by radiotherapy, immunotherapy, or iRT. Given that the function of TDLN in iRT remains unclear, this study aimed to investigate the function and mechanism of TDLN in iRT‐induced abscopal effects.

Methods

The function of TDLN was evaluated using unilateral or bilateral MC38 and B16F10 subcutaneous tumor models with or without indicated TDLN. The flow cytometry, multiple immunofluorescence analysis, and NanoString analysis were utilized to detect the composition and function of the immune cells in the primary and abscopal tumor microenvironment. Additionally, we tempted to interrogate the possible mechanisms via RNA‐sequencing of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes and TDLN.

Results

TDLN deficiency impaired the control of tumor growth by monotherapy. Bilateral TDLN removal rather than unilateral TDLN removal substantially curtailed iRT‐stimulated anti‐tumor and abscopal effects. Furthermore, in the absence of TDLN, the infiltration of CD45+ and CD8+ T cells was substantially reduced in both primary and abscopal tumors, and the anti‐tumor function of CD8+ T cells was attenuated as well. Additionally, the polarization of tumor‐associated macrophages in primary and abscopal tumors were found to be dependent on intact bilateral TDLN. RNA‐sequencing data indicated that impaired infiltration and anti‐tumor effects of immune cells partially attributed to the altered secretion of components from the tumor microenvironment.

Conclusions

TDLN play a critical role in iRT by promoting the infiltration of CD8+ T cells and maintaining the M1/M2 macrophage ratio.
Synthesis, Biological Activity and Molecular Docking Studies of Heterocyclic Chalcones
Authors: Kamra Nisha , Rani Suman , Thakral Sumit , Singh Ajeet , Sangwan Payare L. , Singh Shashank K. , Thakral Samridhi , Singh Vikramjeet , Kumar Devinder
Published: August 2022

Nineteen heterocyclic chalcones were synthesized from 4‐acetyl‐5‐methylquinolylpyrazole and heteroaryl (imidazole, pyrazole, thiophene, indole and triazole) aldehydes and were screened in vitro using four tumor cell lines for their cytotoxic capability and for antimicrobial activity. The chalcone 5b exhibited the highest activity with IC50 values 2.14 μM against colon (HCT‐116) and 5.0 μM, against prostate (PC‐3) cancer cell lines and also displayed good activity against fungal strain (A. niger) with MIC value 9.1 μM. The chalcones 5q and 5p displayed good activity against bacterial strains (S. aureus) having MIC value 2.6 μM and fungal strain (C. albicans) having MIC value 5.4 μM, respectively. The molecular docking outcome revealed that the synthesized heterocyclic chalcones demonstrated hydrogen bond, hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions with their respective biochemical targets.
Ultrathin Pd‐Based Perforated Nanosheets for Fuel Cells Electrocatalysis
Authors: Guo Jingchun , Jiao Shilong , Ya Xiuying , Zheng Huiling , Wang Ran , Yu Jiao , Wang Huanyu , Zhang Zhilin , Liu Wei , He Congxiao , Fu Xucheng
Published: August 2022

With intriguing physiochemical properties and widespread promising applications, ultrathin nanosheets (NSs) with only atomic thickness have drawn increasing attention. The ultrathin Pd, Pd‐based alloy and intermetallic perforated nanosheets (PNSs) have been extensively studied in fuel cells (FCs)‐related reactions, including the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and anodic methanol, ethanol, and formic acid oxidation reactions (MOR, EOR, and FAOR). In this review, we briefly summarize the preparation of ultrathin Pd, Pd‐based alloy and intermetallic PNSs, as well as their advantages in electrocatalytic applications including ORR, MOR, EOR, and FAOR. Finally, the major challenges and perspectives for future development of ultrathin Pd, Pd‐based alloy and intermetallic PNSs electrocatalysts are proposed to accelerate the commercialization of future promising FCs.
A unified interaction model for multiphase flows with the lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Lourenço Ramon G. C. , Constantino Pedro H. , Tavares Frederico W.
Published: August 2022

The lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) has been increasingly adopted for modelling multiphase fluid simulations in engineering problems. Although relatively easy to implement, the ubiquitous Shan–Chen pseudopotential model suffers from limitations such as thermodynamic consistency and the formation of spurious currents. In the literature, the Zhang–Chen, Kupershtokh et al., the β‐scheme, and the Yang–He alternative models seek to mitigate these effects. Here, through analytical manipulations, we call attention to a unified model from which these multiphase interaction forces can be recovered. Isothermal phase‐transition simulations of single‐component in stationary and oscillating droplet conditions, as well as spinodal decomposition calculations, validate the model numerically and reinforce that the multiphase forces are essentially equivalent. Parameters are selected based on the vapour densities at low temperatures in the Maxwell coexistence curve, where there is a narrow range of optimal values. We find that expressing the model parameters as functions of the reduced temperature further enhances the thermodynamic consistency without losing stability or increasing spurious velocities.
Systematic study of tissue factor expression in solid tumors
Authors: de Bono Johann S. , Harris Jeffrey R. , Burm Saskia M. , Vanderstichele Adriaan , Houtkamp Mischa A. , Aarass Saida , Riisnaes Ruth , Figueiredo Ines , Nava Rodrigues Daniel , Christova Rossitza , Olbrecht Siel , Niessen Hans W. M. , Ruuls Sigrid R. , Schuurhuis Danita H. , Lammerts van Bueren Jeroen J. , Breij Esther C. W. , Vergote Ignace
Published: August 2022

Background

Elevated tissue factor (TF) expression, although restricted in normal tissue, has been reported in multiple solid cancers, and expression has been associated with poor prognosis. This manuscript compares TF expression across various solid tumor types via immunohistochemistry in a single study, which has not been performed previously.

Aims

To increase insight in the prevalence and cellular localization of TF expression across solid cancer types, we performed a detailed and systematic analysis of TF expression in tumor tissue obtained from patients with ovarian, esophageal, bladder, cervical, endometrial, pancreatic, prostate, colon, breast, non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and glioblastoma. The spatial and temporal variation of TF expression was analyzed over time and upon disease progression in patient‐matched biopsies taken at different timepoints. In addition, TF expression in patient‐matched primary tumor and metastatic lesions was also analyzed.

Methods and Results

TF expression was detected via immunohistochemistry (IHC) using a validated TF‐specific antibody. TF was expressed in all cancer types tested, with highest prevalence in pancreatic cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, glioblastoma, HNSCC, and NSCLC, and lowest in breast cancer. Staining was predominantly membranous in pancreatic, cervical, and HNSCC, and cytoplasmic in glioblastoma and bladder cancer. In general, expression was consistent between biopsies obtained from the same patient over time, although variability was observed for individual patients. NSCLC biopsies of primary tumor and matched lymph node metastases showed no clear difference in TF expression overall, although individual patient changes were observed.

Conclusion

This study shows that TF is expressed across a broad range of solid cancer types, and expression is present upon tumor dissemination and over the course of treatment.
Early post‐induction augmented therapy improves outcome in children and adolescents with T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Abu Shanap Mayada , Al Jabour Haytham , Rihani Rawad , Hashem Hasan , Abu Ghosh Amal , Tbakhi Abdelghani , Kamal Nazmi , Sultan Iyad , Madanat Faris
Published: August 2022

Introduction

T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) accounts for approximately 15% of all newly diagnosed ALL in children and adolescents and is associated with worse outcomes compared to pre‐B ALL. We aimed to decrease T‐ALL relapses by intensifying our regimen.

Methods

Patients with T‐ALL were treated using two different regimens; before September 2014, patients were treated per St. Jude Total XV protocol; subsequently, a major change was adopted by adding two intensive blocks: FLAG and Reintensification. Cranial radiation was limited to patients with WBC ≥ 100 k/μl at diagnosis and/or patients with CNS2/CNS3 status.

Results

Between June 2005 and April 2020, a total of 100 patients (76 males) were treated and followed up for a median of 70 months (range 14–181). Median age at diagnosis was 9 years (range 0.5–17.8). Forty‐eight patients were diagnosed after September 2014 and received the augmented regimen; their median follow up was 46 months (range 14–74). The 5‐year‐EFS estimates for patients who received the augmented regimen versus standard regimen were 87% ± 4.9% versus 67% ± 6.8% (p = .03); and the 5‐year‐OS estimates were 87% ± 5.1% versus 71% ± 6.3% (p = .06), respectively. Treatment related mortality (TRM) was reported in two patients treated per standard regimen but none for patients who received the augmented regimen.

Conclusions

We implemented a novel approach with early intensification added to a backbone of modified St. Jude Total‐XV regimen for patients with T‐ALL that resulted in improved outcome with no treatment related mortality.
Novel current feedback operational amplifier‐based configuration that realizes a single‐input multiple‐output‐type universal active filter and a single‐resistance‐controlled oscillator
Authors: Bhaskar Data Ram , Raj Ajishek , Senani Raj
Published: August 2022

A new configuration employing five current feedback operational amplifiers (CFOAs), six resistors, and two grounded capacitors is proposed, which realizes a single‐input‐multiple‐output (SIMO)‐type voltage‐mode (VM) universal active filter and a single‐resistance‐controlled oscillator (SRCO) and simultaneously provides the following novel features: (i) realizability of all the five generic filter functions namely, low pass filter (LPF), high pass filter (HPF), band pass filter (BPF), band reject filter (BRF), and all pass filter (APF) at the five output terminals of the five CFOAs; (ii) infinite input impedance and zero output impedance in all the realizations; (iii) availability of orthogonal tunability of the filter parameters (pole frequency, quality factor/BW, and gain); (iv) realizability of an SRCO exhibiting independent control of the condition of oscillation (CO) and frequency of oscillation (FO) by the simple artifice of changing one circuit connection; and (v) use of both grounded capacitors, as preferred for IC implementation. To demonstrate the workability of the proposed configuration, SPICE simulation results and experimental results have been included.
Foraging habitat selection of shrubland bird community in tropical dry forest
Authors: Deshwal Anant , Stephenson Steven L. , Panwar Pooja , DeGregorio Brett A. , Kannan Ragupathy , Willson John D.
Published: August 2022

Habitat loss due to increasing anthropogenic disturbance is the major driver for bird population declines across the globe. Within the Eastern Ghats of India, shrubland bird communities are threatened by shrinking of suitable habitats due to increased anthropogenic disturbance and climate change. The development of an effective habitat management strategy is hampered by the absence of data for this bird community. To address this knowledge gap, we examined foraging sites for 14 shrubland bird species, including three declining species, in three study areas representing the shrubland type of forest community in the Eastern Ghats. We recorded microhabitat features within an 11 m radius of observed foraging points and compared these data with similar data from random plots. We used chi‐square to test the association between plant species and bird species for sites where they were observed foraging. We observed significant differences between foraging sites of all the study species and random plots, thus indicating selection for foraging habitat. Using linear discriminant analysis, we found that the microhabitat features important for the bird species were shrub density, vegetational height, vertical foliage stratification, grass height, and percent rock cover. Our results show that diet guild and foraging strata influence the foraging microhabitat selection of a species (e.g., ground‐foraging species differed significantly from other species). Except for two species, all focal birds were associated with at least one plant species. The plant‐bird association was based on foraging, structural, or behavioral preferences. Several key factors affecting foraging habitat such as shrub density can be actively managed at the local scale. Strategic and selective harvesting of forest products and a spatially and temporally controlled livestock grazing regime may allow regeneration of scrubland and create conditions favorable to birds.
Alpine butterflies want to fly high: Species and communities shift upwards faster than their host plants
Authors: Kerner Janika M. , Krauss Jochen , Maihoff Fabienne , Bofinger Lukas , Classen Alice
Published: August 2022

Despite sometimes strong codependencies of insect herbivores and plants, the responses of individual taxa to accelerating climate change are typically studied in isolation. For this reason, biotic interactions that potentially limit species in tracking their preferred climatic niches are ignored. Here, we chose butterflies as a prominent representative of herbivorous insects to investigate the impacts of temperature changes and their larval host plant distributions along a 1.4‐km elevational gradient in the German Alps. Following a sampling protocol of 2009, we revisited 33 grassland plots in 2019 over an entire growing season. We quantified changes in butterfly abundance and richness by repeated transect walks on each plot and disentangled the direct and indirect effects of locally assessed temperature, site management, and larval and adult food resource availability on these patterns. Additionally, we determined elevational range shifts of butterflies and host plants at both the community and species level. Comparing the two sampled years (2009 and 2019), we found a severe decline in butterfly abundance and a clear upward shift of butterflies along the elevational gradient. We detected shifts in the peak of species richness, community composition, and at the species level, whereby mountainous species shifted particularly strongly. In contrast, host plants showed barely any change, neither in connection with species richness nor individual species shifts. Further, temperature and host plant richness were the main drivers of butterfly richness, with change in temperature best explaining the change in richness over time. We concluded that host plants were not yet hindering butterfly species and communities from shifting upwards. However, the mismatch between butterfly and host plant shifts might become a problem for this very close plant–herbivore relationship, especially toward higher elevations, if butterflies fail to adapt to new host plants. Further, our results support the value of conserving traditional extensive pasture use as a promoter of host plant and, hence, butterfly richness.
4E analysis of the horizontal axis wind turbine with LCA consideration for different climate conditions
Authors: Jahromi Sina , Moosavian Seyed F. , Yaghoubirad Maryam , Azizi Narjes , Ahmadi Abolfazl
Published: August 2022

Rising concerns about greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels have made it important to pay attention to renewable energy sources. In this regard, using wind turbines to use the potential of wind energy as a source of clean energy is being developed. This study developed a numerical model of a horizontal axis wind turbine in MATLAB software. A multicriteria analysis based on energy, exergy, economic, and environmental analysis has been performed to policy‐making and evaluate the potential of wind energy systems. Six cities of Buenos Aires, Harare, Madrid, Melbourne, Shiraz, and Washington have also been analyzed as a case study to examine the impact of different climates on the result of these criteria. According to energy analysis, Melbourne is the best choice with Temperate Oceanic Climates and average energy efficiency of 17.1%. From an exergy point of view, Harare, which has Oceanic Subtropical Highland Climates, is the best choice, with an average exergy efficiency of 11.6%. In terms of the Levelized cost of energy, Melbourne is also known as the most economical city, with an energy cost of $0.14 per kWh. Also, based on the environmental aspect of the analysis, which represents the carbon footprint, Shiraz, with the Cold–Summer Mediterranean Climate and the lowest carbon emission per year, is the most optimal option.
Maturity assessment of solid bitumen in the Sinian carbonate reservoirs of the eastern and central Sichuan Basin, China: Application for hydrocarbon generation modelling
Authors: Chen Jiaxu , Guo Xiaowen , He Zhiliang , Tao Ze , Zhu Huahui , Luo Tao , Zhang Dianwei , Sun Ziming
Published: August 2022

Maturity assessment of solid bitumen is significant for the reconstruction of the thermal evolution history and obtaining the key periods of hydrocarbon generation for the Qiongzhusi source rocks in the eastern and central Sichuan Basin because of the absence of vitrinite in the marine mudstones. Based on the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy analyses of solid bitumen, the thermal maturity of solid bitumen in the Sinian reservoir was evaluated, which was used to calibrate the thermal maturation history modelling results of the Qiongzhusi source rocks. The FTIR spectrums of solid bitumen are characterized by depleted aliphatic carbon and CO group, and enrichment of aromatic carbon, which indicates that the vitrinite reflectance equivalent (VReq) values of solid bitumen in the Sichuan Basin exceed at least 1.3%. The calculated VReq values of solid bitumen inferred by Raman spectroscopy analysis are 3.8%–4.09% and 3.51%–3.77% in the eastern and central Sichuan Basin, respectively. The calculated VReq values of bitumen in fluorite and calcite inclusions of the central Sichuan Basin vary from 3.54% to 3.64%. The thermal evolution history of the Qiongzhusi source rocks can be divided into two heating–cooling stages. At the end of the second heating stage, which is the Late Cretaceous, the Qiongzhusi source rocks reached the highest temperature of 250 and 225°C in the eastern and central Sichuan Basin, respectively. The different burial and thermal history of the Qiongzhusi source rocks controls their key periods of hydrocarbon generation in the eastern and central Sichuan Basin. Two episodes of intense oil generation of the Qiongzhusi source rocks were determined at 440–380 Ma and 290–260 Ma, and one phase of gas generation from oil cracking was from 260 to 85 Ma in the eastern Sichuan Basin. The intense oil generation of the Qiongzhusi source rocks occurred at 240–185 Ma and the oil cracking phase was from 185 to 90 Ma in the central Sichuan Basin.
Co‐payment and adolescents' use of psychologist treatment: Spill over effects on mental health care and on suicide attempts
Authors: Kruse Marie , Olsen Kim Rose , Skovsgaard Christian Volmar
Published: August 2022

The literature around co‐payment shows evidence of increasing consumption following reduced co‐payment. We apply difference‐in‐difference methods to assess the effect of abolishing the co‐payment on psychologist treatment of anxiety and depression in 18 to 21‐year olds. We apply nationwide individual level data with individuals close to this age interval as control group. The population amounts to approximately 1.2 million individuals and a total of 51 million patient months of observations. We show that after removing co‐payment, the use of psychologist treatment almost doubles. We find that this increase involves moderately positive spill over effects on outpatient psychiatric care and on prescriptions of antidepressants. In the heterogeneity analysis we find evidence of higher effects on adolescents from families with lower income, indicating that reduced co‐payments may increase equality in access. We also see that effects are higher for individuals listed with general practitioners (GPs) with a reluctant referral style; indicating that these GPs' behavior is affected by patient co‐payment rates. Interestingly, we find evidence of significant reductions in suicide attempts – primarily among high‐income women and low‐income men. This indicates that better access to mental health care for adolescents may have a positive impact on their mental health and well‐being.
Numerical analysis of the two‐phase steam‐air heat transfer flow induced in smooth and corrugated channel using the VOF model
Authors: Koulali Aimad
Published: August 2022

In this paper, heat transfer induced in smooth and wavy channels in the presence of two phases (air and steam) was conducted and discussed. Two configurations have been studied according to the geometrical shape of the channel walls. The thermal and hydrodynamic fields in the channel have been predicted using the single‐fluid approach with a solver based on the finite volume method. Explicit formulation of the volume of fluid was used to track the interface between both fluids. The mesh in the wavy channel was treated with a curvilinear mesh grid. Local Nusselt evolution, isothermal distribution, streamlines, and other parameters have been shown at different times of simulation. It was found that weak air phase velocities and wave patterns of the channel walls play a destabilizing role in the interface evolution between both fluid phases. In addition, results show that channels with wavy walls can be an effective solution to ensure higher heat transfer in two‐phase flows.
Brain structure analysis of different age groups of Diannan small‐ear pigs
Authors: Liu Yi‐Fan , Fang Chang‐Le , Pi Yu , Ke Teng‐Fei , Chu Ji‐Xiang , Tang Lin‐Na , Zhang Lan‐Chun , Wanchana Somjit , Liao Cheng‐De
Published: August 2022

The objective of the study is to investigate the brain development and atrophy of Diannan small‐ear pigs in different ages using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A total of 12 Diannan small‐ear pigs were included and divided into the young group, adult group, and middle‐and‐old age (M&O) group according to their age. The brain structure of pigs was scanned using MRI, and the brain data obtained were statistically analyzed by signal conversion and image reconstruction. Compared with the young group, the signals of most brain structures in the adult group and M&O group were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Compared with the adult group, the signal intensity of the right caudate nucleus and the right lateral ventricle in the M&O group was significantly increased, while the signal intensity of other regions was almost significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Compared with the young group, both adult and M&O groups had some degree of brain atrophy. Brain atrophy in the precuneus and the inferior temporal gyrus was more predominant in the M&O group in comparison with the adult group. The present study demonstrated that the brain signal of Diannan small‐ear pigs gradually diminished with age, while the degree of brain atrophy was the opposite, providing the basic data on the brain of Diannan small‐ear pigs.
Comprehensive characterization of genomic and radiologic features reveals distinct driver patterns of RTK/RAS pathway in ground‐glass opacity pulmonary nodules
Authors: Yu Fenglei , Peng Muyun , Bai Jing , Zhu Xiuli , Zhang Bingyu , Tang Jingqun , Liu Wenliang , Chen Chen , Wang Xiang , Chen Mingjiu , Tan Sichuang , Sun Yi , Liang Qingchun , Li Jina , Hu Yan , Liao Aihui , Hu Huali , He Yu , Xiao Xiao , Wang Bin , Xing Guanlan , Xu Yaping , Chen Rongrong , Xia Xuefeng , Chen Xiaofeng
Published: August 2022

Ground‐glass opacity (GGO)‐associated pulmonary nodules have been known as a radiologic feature of early‐stage lung cancers and exhibit an indolent biological behavior. However, the correlation between driver genes and radiologic features as well as the immune microenvironment remains poorly understood. We performed a custom 1021‐gene panel sequencing of 334 resected pulmonary nodules presenting as GGO from 262 Chinese patients. A total of 130 multiple pulmonary nodules were sampled from 58 patients. Clinical‐pathologic and radiologic parameters of these pulmonary nodules were collected. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and multiplex immunofluorescent staining (mIF) were applied to analyze proliferation and immune cell markers of GGO‐associated pulmonary nodules. Compared with pure GGO nodules, mixed GGO nodules were enriched for invasive adenocarcinoma (IAC) (182/216 vs 73/118, P < .001). Eighty‐eight percent (294/334) of GGO‐associated nodules carried at least one mutation in EGFR/ERBB2/BRAF/KRAS/MAP2K1 of the RTK/RAS signaling pathway, and the alterations in these driver genes were mutually exclusive. The analysis of multifocal pulmonary nodules from the same patient revealed evidence of functional convergence on RTK/RAS pathways. Nodules with ERBB2/BRAF/MAP2K1 mutations tended to be more indolent than those with EGFR and KRAS mutations. IHC and mIF staining showed that KRAS‐mutant GGO nodules displayed higher infiltration of CD4+ T cell and CD8+ T cell as well as stronger proliferation and immune inhibitory signals. Our study demonstrates a driver landscape of radiologically detectable GGO‐associated pulmonary nodules in Chinese patients and supports that different driver patterns in RTK/RAS pathway are corresponding to different radiologic features.
Ongoing need for education in abortion care
Authors: Eogan Maeve , Murphy Cliona , Higgins Mary
Published: August 2022

A commentary on the Irish experience of extended abortion care, emphasizing the importance of ongoing medical education.
Robotic surgery for pelvic organ prolapse with complete bladder eversion
Authors: Ichino Manabu , Sasaki Hitomi , Takenaka Masashi , Ichihara Keiichiro , Kawai Akihiro , Fukaya Kosuke , Zennami Kenji , Takahara Kiyoshi , Sumitomo Makoto , Shiroki Ryoichi
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Pelvic organ prolapse with complete bladder eversion is extremely rare.

Case presentation

An 82‐year‐old woman was diagnosed with uterine prolapse 3 years ago and underwent occasional urethral catheter placement for difficulty in micturition. She presented with vulvar bleeding and prolapsed uterus from the vagina. Pelvic examination revealed uterine prolapse and a 65 × 65‐mm red mass ventrally with urinary outflow. Contrast medium leakage from the vulvar mass and guidewire observed on antegrade pyeloureterography indicated pelvic organ prolapse with complete bladder eversion. Manual reduction of the everted bladder, robotic sacrocolpopexy, and bladder neck reconstruction was performed. However, eversion recurred 10 months postoperatively. Subsequently, robotic Burch colposuspension, cystopexy to the rectus fascia, bladder neck reconstruction, colpoclesis, and cystostomy were performed. There was no recurrence postoperatively.

Conclusion

Robotic Burch colposuspension, cystopexy to the rectus fascia, bladder neck reconstruction, colpoclesis, and cystostomy were performed for complete bladder eversion.
An apparatus for qualitative assessment of the shading ratio of oblique illumination and real‐time high‐contrast imaging
Authors: Shao Meng , Wang Ke , Wang Zixin , Peng Tao , Zhang Shuhe , Zhang Juanlin , Fang Shu , Wang Fengsong , Zhang Shengzhao , Zhong Min‐Cheng , Wang Yi , Zhong Zhensheng , Zhou Jinhua
Published: August 2022

Oblique illumination imaging can significantly improve the contrast of transparent thin samples. However, in traditional oblique illumination methods, either the condenser is offset or a block is added to the condenser, which makes it complicated and challenged to build a stable oblique illumination imaging. Herein, we present a method to measure the optimal shading ratio of oblique illumination in an inverted microscope, and develop an apparatus for stable high‐speed high‐contrast imaging with uniform brightness. At optimal shading ratio, the oblique illumination imaging has better imaging quality than differential interference contrast, which characteristic is independent on sample. In oblique illumination with low magnification objective, the images have uneven brightness. According to target brightness, we have developed a brightness unevenness correction algorithm to form uniform background brightness for oblique illumination. Integrating the algorithm with imaging acquisition, corrected oblique illumination microscopy is appropriate to observe living cells with high contrast.
Lower‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes: Current treatment options for anemia
Authors: Meunier Mathieu , Park Sophie
Published: August 2022

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematological disorders. Treatment options are classified and defined by prognostic risk based on the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) and, more recently, the revised IPSS (IPSS‐R). The treatment goal for lower‐risk MDS is to correct cytopenias or their consequences, with the goal of maintaining or improving quality of life. Erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESAs) play an important role in treating anemia. Individuals with MDS who have a 5q deletion are particularly sensitive to treatment with lenalidomide; however, this comprises the minority of patients with MDS. Luspatercept was recently approved in the United States and the European Union for the treatment of ESA‐refractory MDS with ring sideroblasts. Research into new treatment options, especially after ESA failure, is needed. In this review, we will focus on the current therapeutic options for MDS‐related anemia.
Identifying trajectories of fatigue in patients with primary mitochondrial disease due to the m.3243A > G variant
Authors: Klein Inge‐Lot , Verhaak Christianne M. , Smeitink Jan A. M. , de Laat Paul , Janssen Mirian C. H. , Custers José A. E.
Published: August 2022

Severe fatigue is a common complaint in patients with primary mitochondrial disease. However, less is known about the course of fatigue over time. This longitudinal observational cohort study of patients with the mitochondrial DNA 3243 A>G variant explored trajectories of fatigue over 2 years, and characteristics of patients within these fatigue trajectories. Fifty‐three adult patients treated at the Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen were included. The majority of the patients reported consistent, severe fatigue (41%), followed by patients with a mixed pattern of severe and mild fatigue (36%). Then, 23% of patients reported stable mild fatigue levels. Patients with a stable high fatigue trajectory were characterized by higher disease manifestations scores, more clinically relevant mental health symptoms, and lower psychosocial functioning and quality of life compared to patients reporting stable low fatigue levels. Fatigue at baseline and disease manifestation scores predicted fatigue severity at the 2‐year assessment (57% explained variance). This study demonstrates that severe fatigue is a common and stable complaint in the majority of patients. Clinicians should be aware of severe fatigue in patients with moderate to severe disease manifestation scores on the Newcastle Mitochondrial Disease Scale, the high prevalence of clinically relevant mental health symptoms and overall impact on quality of life in these patients. Screening of fatigue and psychosocial variables will guide suitable individualized treatment to improve the quality of life.
Proportion of asymptomatic infection and nonsevere disease caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant: A systematic review and analysis
Authors: Yu Weien , Guo Yifei , Zhang Shenyan , Kong Yide , Shen Zhongliang , Zhang Jiming
Published: August 2022

SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant seemed to cause milder disease compared to previous predominated variants. We aimed to conduct a meta‐analysis to assess the pooled proportion of nonsevere disease and asymptomatic infection among COVID‐19 patients infected with Omicron and Delta. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases. We included studies of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron infection from November 1, 2021, to April 18, 2022, and studies of Delta infection from October 1, 2020, to June 30, 2022. Studies without corresponding data, with less than 50 patients, or obviously biased concerning main outcome were excluded. Meta‐analysis was performed in R 4.2.0 with the “meta” package. Subgroup analyses were conducted by study group and vaccination status. The pooled proportion of asymptomatic infection and nonsevere disease with Omicron were 25.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.0%–38.2%) and 97.9% (95% CI 97.1%–98.7%), significantly higher than those of Delta with 8.4% (95% CI 4.4%–16.2%) and 91.4% (95% CI 87.0%–96.0%). During Omicron wave, children and adolescents had higher proportion of asymptomatic infection, SOTR and the elderly had lower proportion of nonsevere disease, vaccination of a booster dose contributed to higher proportion of both asymptomatic infection and nonsevere disease. This study estimates the pooled proportion of asymptomatic infection and nonsevere disease caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron compared to other predominant variants. The result has important implications for future policy making.
Faveleira (Cnidoscolus quercifolius Pohl) seed press cake flour: production, characterization and application for use in cookies
Authors: Ribeiro Penha Patrícia Cabral , Junior Francisco Humberto Xavier , do Nascimento Silva Camilla Gleyse , da Silva Thainar Michelle Bezerra , Corrêa Bianca Batista Mota , de Veras Bruno Oliveira , de Magalhães Cordeiro Angela Maria Tribuzy , de Andrade Vieira Érica , de Sousa Júnior Francisco Canindé , da Silva Chaves Damasceno Karla Suzanne Florentino , Stamford Thayza Christina Montenegro
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Food processing produces large volumes of waste that can be transformed into useful and relevant ingredients. The by‐product of oil extraction from faveleira seeds is a potentially low‐cost raw material that can be used for obtaining functional foods. This study aimed to analyze the physicochemical properties, chemical composition, and antioxidant activity of faveleira (Cnidoscolus quercifolius Pohl) seed press cake flour (FSPCF). Additionally, the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and physical, microbiological, and sensory aspects of cookies with 0, 25%, or 50% substitution of refined wheat flour (RWF) with FSPCF (0‐FSPCF, 25‐FSPCF, and 50‐FSPCF cookies, respectively) were evaluated.

RESULTS

FSPCF exhibited good physicochemical properties, high antioxidant activity (0.45 ± 0.00 and 42.83 ± 1.30 g TE g−1 for the DPPH and ABTS methods, respectively), and high polyphenol content (particularly gallic acid at 21015.85 ± 4981.76 g kg−1) and is also rich in minerals and fiber (359.40 ± 1.10 g kg−1). Replacement of RWF with FSPCF increased the activity of antioxidants and the levels of polyphenols, ash, lipids, proteins, and fibers. The 50‐FSPCF cookie possessed the highest linoleic acid content (97.50 ± 8.47 g kg−1). Flour replacement influenced the weight of the cookies without affecting the other physical characteristics. The cookies yielded good sensory acceptance and purchase intentions. Contamination was not detected.

CONCLUSION

Faveleira flour possesses high nutritional and bioactive value and can be used as a functional ingredient in cookies and possibly in other bakery products such as bread, cakes, and pastas. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.