bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The death burden of colorectal cancer attributable to modifiable risk factors, trend analysis from 1990 to 2019 and future predictions
Authors: Zhu Ning , Zhang Yan , Mi Mi , Ding Yuwei , Weng Shanshan , Zheng Jia , Tian Yang , Yuan Ying
Published: March 2024

Background

The death burden attributable to modifiable risk factors is key to colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and regional distribution of attributable CRC death burden worldwide from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

We extracted data from the Global Burden of Disease Study in 2019 and assessed the mortality, age‐standardized death rate (ASDR), population attributable fractions, and time trend in CRC attributable to risk factors by geography, socio‐demographic index (SDI) quintile, age, and sex.

Results

Over the past 30 years, from high to low SDI region, the number of deaths increased by 46.56%, 103.55%, 249.64%, 231.89%, 163.11%, and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) for ASDR were −1.06%, −0.01%, 1.32%, 1.19%, and 0.65%, respectively. ASDR in males was 1.88 times than in females in 2019; ASDR in males showed an increasing trend (AAPC 0.07%), whereas ASDR in females showed a decreasing trend (AAPC −0.69%) compared to figures in 1990. In 2019, from high to low SDI region, the 15–49 age group accounted for 3%, 6%, 10%, 11%, and 15% of the total population; dietary and metabolic factors contributed 43.4% and 20.8% to CRC‐attributable death worldwide. From high to low SDI region, ASDRs caused by dietary and metabolic factors increased by −23.4%, −5.5%, 25.8%, 29.1%, 13.5%, and 1.4%, 33.3%, 100.8%, 128.4%, 77.7% respectively, compared to 1990.

Conclusions

The attributable CRC death burden gradually shifted from higher SDI to lower SDI regions. The limitation in males was more significant, and the gap is expected to be further expanded. In lower SDI regions, the death burden tended to affect younger people. The leading cause of CRC‐attributable deaths was the inadequate control of dietary and metabolic risk factors.
Trauma plays an important role in acral melanoma: A retrospective study of 303 patients
Authors: Huang Rong , Zhao Mengke , Zhang Guiying , Yang Yueling , Wang Jiayu , Zheng Kelin , Li Lin , Su Xinyu , Zhao Lianjun , Wu Yirong , Zou Zhengyun
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Acral melanoma (AM) is the most common subtype of malignant melanoma in China, with a very poor prognosis. Despite the frequent reporting of trauma events in AM cases, the precise etiology of AM remains elusive.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a cohort of 303 AM patients at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital. The patients were categorized into four distinct groups based on different patterns of disease onset: trauma type (Type 1), pigmented nevus type (Type 2), pigmented nevi with trauma (Type 3), and pigmented nevi with natural ulceration (Type 4). Differences in clinicopathological features, genetic alterations, and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) were analyzed.

Results

Traumatic events accounted for a large proportion of AM cases. Among these categories, Type 1 patients displayed the least favorable pathological traits and an immunosuppressive TIME. Common copy number variations (CNVs) were observed in CCND1, RB1, FGF19, and IL7R, while CNVs in CDK4 and TERT occurred less frequently in patients with a history of trauma (Type 1 and Type 3). Type 2 patients exhibited the most favorable pathological characteristics and genetic profiles, and demonstrated the lowest incidence of CCDN1 and RB1 CNVs but had the highest CDK4 CNVs. In contrast, the pathological behavior of Type 3 and Type 4 patients was in between Type 1 and Type 2. And patients in Type 3 and Type 4 displayed a more favorable overall microenvironment.

Conclusion

This study provides a clinical classification of Chinese AM based on diverse clinical onset characteristics and highlights the important role of trauma in AM. These findings may help to guide the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of AM patients. Further investigations are imperative to elucidate the underlying mechanisms governing the association between trauma and AM.
Synthesis and Molecular Docking of some new Thiazolidinone and Thiadiazole Derivatives as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Saeed Ali , Soliman Ahbarah M. , Abdullah Mahmood M. S. , Abdel‐Latif Ehab , El‐Demerdash Amr
Published: March 2024

New sets of functionalized thiazolidinone and thiadiazole derivatives were synthesized, and their cytotoxicity was evaluated on HepG2, MCF‐7, HTC‐116, and WI38 cells. The synthetic approach is based on the preparation of 4‐(4‐acetamidophenyl)thiosemicarbazide (4) and their thiosemicarbazones 5 a–e, which are converted to the corresponding thiazoldin‐4‐one compounds 6 a–e upon cyclization with ethyl bromoacetate. The thiadiazole compounds 9 and 12 were obtained by reacting 4‐(4‐acetamidophenyl)thiosemicarbazide with isothiocyanates and/or ethyl 2‐cyano‐3,3‐bis(methylthio)acrylate, respectively. The thiazolidinone compounds 6 c and 6 e exhibited strong cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells, with an IC50 (6.70±0.5 μM) and IC50 (7.51±0.8 μM), respectively, very close to that of doxorubicin (IC50: 4.17±0.2 μM). In addition, the anti‐cancer properties of the tested thiazolidinone and thiadiazole scaffolds were further explored by the molecular docking program (MOE)‐(PDB Code‐1DLS). Compounds 5 d, 5 e, 6 d, 6 e, and 7 have the best binding affinity, ranging from −8.5386 kcal.mol−1 to −8.2830 kcal.mol−1.
Glutamic Acid Modified Gold Nanorod Sensor for the Detection of Calcium ions in Neuronal Cells
Authors: Pathiriparambath Muhammed Shafeeque Rahman , Joseph Merin , Manog Mithun , Thomas Vinoy , Tharayil Hanas , Nair Lakshmi V.
Published: March 2024

Calcium (Ca2+) ions play a crucial role in the functioning of neurons, governing various aspects of neuronal activity such as rapid modulation and alterations in gene expression. Ca2+ signaling has a significant impact on the development of diseases and the impairment of neuronal functions. Herein, the study reports a Ca2+ ion sensor in neuronal cells using a gold nanorod. The gold nanorod (GA‐GNR) conjugated glutamic acid developed in the study was used as a nano‐bio probe for the experimental and in vitro detection of calcium. The nanosensor is colloidally stable, preserves plasmonic properties, and shows good viability in neuronal cells, as well as promoting neuron cell line growth. The cytotoxicity and cell penetration of the nanosensor are studied using Raman spectroscopy, brightfield and darkfield microscopy imaging, and MTT assays. The quantification of Ca2+ ions in neuronal cells is determined by monitoring the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of the GA‐GNR. The change in the intensity profile in the presence of Ca2+ incubated neurons was effectively used to develop a portable prototype of an optical Ca2+ sensor, proposing it as a tool for neurodegenerative disease diagnosis and neuromodulation evaluation.
Phosphoramide‐Based Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Effective Gas Adsorption
Authors: Sugamata Koh , Kobayashi Sho , Amanokura Natsuki , Shirai Akihiro , Minoura Mao
Published: March 2024

Cost‐effective and facile synthetic routes to organic ligands, along with porous materials that exhibit exceptional gas‐storage properties, promise significant industrial applications. Here, a two‐step synthesis of novel organophosphorus ligands without metal catalysts is reported. These ligands serve as versatile linkers for the construction of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) incorporating various metal ions, including zinc and copper. One of the zinc‐based MOFs demonstrates remarkable gas‐storage properties, with a hydrogen (H2) capacity exceeding 2.5 wt% at 77 K and 100 kPa as well as a carbon dioxide (CO2) capacity exceeding 20 wt% at 298 K and 100 kPa. Furthermore, this zinc‐based MOF can be synthesized through a solvothermal process on the gram scale that yields high‐quality single crystals.
MiRNA research—The potential for understanding the multiple facets of anorexia nervosa
Authors: Voelz Clara , Trinh Stefanie , Käver Larissa , Tran Mai‐Tam , Beyer Cordian , Seitz Jochen
Published: March 2024

Anorexia nervosa (AN) has a multifaceted and complex pathology, yet major gaps remain in our understanding of factors involved in AN pathology. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a regulatory role in translating genes into proteins and help understand and treat diseases. An extensive literature review on miRNAs with AN and comorbidities has uncovered a significant lack in miRNA research. To demonstrate the importance of understanding miRNA deregulation, we surveyed the literature on depression and obesity providing examples of relevant miRNAs. For AN, no miRNA sequencing or array studies have been found, unlike other psychiatric disorders. For depression and obesity, screenings and mechanistic studies were conducted, leading to clinical studies to improve understanding of their regulatory influences. MiRNAs are promising targets for studying AN due to their role as signaling molecules, involvement in psychiatric‐metabolic axes, and potential as biomarkers. These characteristics offer valuable insights into the disease's etiology and potential new treatment options. The first miRNA‐based treatment for rare metabolic disorders has been approved by the FDA and it is expected that these advancements will increase in the next decade. MiRNA research in AN is essential to examine its role in the development, manifestation, and progression of the disease.

Public Significance

The current understanding of the development and treatment of AN is insufficient. miRNAs are short regulatory sequences that influence the translation of genes into proteins. They are the subject of research in various diseases, including both metabolic and psychiatric disorders. Studying miRNAs in AN may elucidate their causal and regulatory role, uncover potential biomarkers, and allow for future targeted treatments.
Environmental DNA–RNA dynamics provide insights for effective monitoring of marine invasive species
Authors: Scriver Michelle , von Ammon Ulla , Pochon Xavier , Arranz Vanessa , Stanton Jo‐Ann L. , Gemmell Neil J. , Zaiko Anastasija
Published: March 2024

Environmental DNA and RNA (eDNA/eRNA) can serve as molecular tools for biodiversity monitoring and biosecurity surveillance. However, uncertainties still exist regarding the persistence and dynamics of marine nucleic acids in the environment and the effects of post‐sampling storage on species detectability. To bridge these gaps, an experiment was conducted in an Auckland marina, a known New Zealand entry point for marine non‐indigenous species (NIS). We targeted a prominent invader, the Mediterranean fanworm Sabella spallanzanii, for eDNA/eRNA‐based detection. Permeable dialysis bags filled with seawater collected near an S. spallanzanii colony were deployed in the marina to simulate environmental conditions, with a subset of bags stored on ice to mimic field storage conditions. Sabella spallanzanii eDNA/eRNA signal was quantified using droplet digital PCR on samples collected over 24 h of dialysis bag deployment. Results challenged traditional first‐order decay models, showing inconsistent eDNA/eRNA signal patterns and no significant concentration changes between 0 and 24 h. Consequently, total eDNA fragmentation was assessed using the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer® electrophoresis system, which revealed a rise in the number of total eDNA fragments and an unexpected increase in the median fragment size of total eDNA under field conditions over time, likely originating from the ambient microbiome. Additional analysis using long‐read sequencing (Oxford Nanopore Technologies, UK) revealed an increase in microbial eDNA reads within the in‐field samples, suggesting potential microbial growth within the dialysis bags. In contrast, the ice‐stored samples exhibited no significant changes in the number of reads assigned to microbial taxa, implying limited microbial growth in cold storage. These findings provide insights into total eDNA dynamics and its potential impact on targeted eDNA concentration and detection. Further comprehensive research on eDNA/eRNA dynamics, particularly focused on eRNA, is essential, as this understanding is crucial for refining survey interpretation and sampling design for effective environmental management.
Interlaboratory validation of the ToxTracker assay: An in vitro reporter assay for mechanistic genotoxicity assessment
Authors: Hendriks Giel , Adriaens Els , Allemang Ashley , Clements Julie , Cole Gabrielle , Derr Remco , Engel Maria , Hamel Annie , Kidd Darren , Kellum Stephanie , Kiyota Tomomi , Myhre Abby , Naëssens Valerie , Pfuhler Stefan , Roy Marise , Settivari Raja , Schuler Maik , Zeller Andreas , van Benthem Jan , Vanparys Philippe , Kirkland David
Published: March 2024

ToxTracker is a mammalian cell reporter assay that predicts the genotoxic properties of compounds with high accuracy. By evaluating induction of various reporter genes that play a key role in relevant cellular pathways, it provides insight into chemical mode‐of‐action (MoA), thereby supporting discrimination of direct‐acting genotoxicants and cytotoxic chemicals. A comprehensive interlaboratory validation trial was conducted, in which the principles outlined in OECD Guidance Document 34 were followed, with the primary objectives of establishing transferability and reproducibility of the assay and confirming the ability of ToxTracker to correctly classify genotoxic and non‐genotoxic compounds. Reproducibility of the assay to predict genotoxic MoA was confirmed across participating laboratories and data were evaluated in terms of concordance with in vivo genotoxicity outcomes. Seven laboratories tested a total of 64 genotoxic and non‐genotoxic chemicals that together cover a broad chemical space. The within‐laboratory reproducibility (WLR) was up to 98% (73%–98% across participants) and the overall between‐laboratory reproducibility (BLR) was 83%. This trial confirmed the accuracy of ToxTracker to predict in vivo genotoxicants with a sensitivity of 84.4% and a specificity of 91.2%. We concluded that ToxTracker is a robust in vitro assay for the accurate prediction of in vivo genotoxicity. Considering ToxTracker's robust standalone accuracy and that it can provide important information on the MoA of chemicals, it is seen as a valuable addition to the regulatory in vitro genotoxicity battery that may even have the potential to replace certain currently used in vitro battery assays.
Titanium oxide aerogel/graphene oxide based electrode for electrochemical supercapacitors
Authors: Hanif Md. Abu , Kim Young‐Soon , Kwac Lee Ku , Ameen Sadia , Abdullah Abdulmuin M. , Akhtar M. Shaheer
Published: March 2024

In order to build electrochemical energy storage electrodes, carbon composite materials containing nanosized metal oxides might be desirable. This article describes the designing of TiO2 aerogel/graphene oxide (TiO2‐A/GO) composites for electrochemical supercapacitors. TiO2‐A was synthesized by a simple sol‐gel process followed by annealing at 250°C and thereafter, different concentrations of GO were mixed to prepare TiO2‐A/GO composites via sonochemical method. The intermixing of GO and TiO2‐A in composite was confirmed by observing the structural and crystalline characterizations. Two electrode electrochemical system was used to elucidate the capacitive characteristics of TiO2‐A/GO composite electrode by cyclic voltammetry analysis. In comparison with TiO2‐A electrode, high specific capacitances (Cs) were recorded for TiO2‐A/GO composite electrode. TiO2‐A/2GO composite electrode attained the highest Cs value of ~338.2 Fg−1 at 10 mVs−1 with excellent cycle stability after 2000 cycles. Thus, the prepared TiO2‐A/GO composites‐based electrode can be a promising material to achieve good capacitive properties.
The myelination‐associated G protein‐coupled receptor 37 is regulated by Zfp488, Nkx2.2, and Sox10 during oligodendrocyte differentiation
Authors: Schmidt Antonia L. , Kremp Marco , Aratake Takaaki , Cui Siying , Lin Yifeng , Zhong Xiaowen , Lu Q. Richard , Zhang Chengfu , Qiu Mengsheng , Aberle Tim , Wegner Michael
Published: March 2024

Oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination in the central nervous system are controlled and coordinated by a complex gene regulatory network that contains several transcription factors, including Zfp488 and Nkx2.2. Despite the proven role in oligodendrocyte differentiation little is known about the exact mode of Zfp488 and Nkx2.2 action, including their target genes. Here, we used overexpression of Zfp488 and Nkx2.2 in differentiating CG4 cells to identify aspects of the oligodendroglial expression profile that depend on these transcription factors. Although both transcription factors are primarily described as repressors, the detected changes argue for an additional function as activators. Among the genes activated by both Zfp488 and Nkx2.2 was the G protein‐coupled receptor Gpr37 that is important during myelination. In agreement with a positive effect on Gpr37 expression, downregulation of the G protein‐coupled receptor was observed in Zfp488‐ and in Nkx2.2‐deficient oligodendrocytes in the mouse. We also identified several potential regulatory regions of the Gpr37 gene. Although Zfp488 and Nkx2.2 both bind to one of the regulatory regions downstream of the Gpr37 gene in vivo, none of the regulatory regions was activated by either transcription factor alone. Increased activation by Zfp488 or Nkx2.2 was only observed in the presence of Sox10, a transcription factor continuously present in oligodendroglial cells. Our results argue that both Zfp488 and Nkx2.2 also act as transcriptional activators during oligodendrocyte differentiation and cooperate with Sox10 to allow the expression of Gpr37 as a modulator of the myelination process.
Resting‐state effective connectivity is systematically linked to reappraisal success of high‐ and low‐intensity negative emotions
Authors: Morawetz Carmen , Berboth Stella , Bode Stefan
Published: March 2024

Emotion regulation is a process by which individuals modulate their emotional responses to cope with different environmental demands, for example, by reappraising the emotional situation. Here, we tested whether effective connectivity of a reappraisal‐related neural network at rest is predictive of successfully regulating high‐ and low‐intensity negative emotions in an emotion‐regulation task. Task‐based and resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) data of 28 participants were collected using ultra‐high magnetic field strength at 7 Tesla during three scanning sessions. We used spectral dynamic causal modeling (spDCM) on the rs‐fMRI data within brain regions modulated by emotion intensity. We found common connectivity patterns for both high‐ and low‐intensity stimuli. Distinctive effective connectivity patterns in relation to low‐intensity stimuli were found from frontal regions connecting to temporal regions. Reappraisal success for high‐intensity stimuli was predicted by additional connections within the vlPFC and from temporal to frontal regions. Connectivity patterns at rest predicting reappraisal success were generally more pronounced for low‐intensity stimuli, suggesting a greater role of stereotyped patterns, potentially reflecting preparedness, when reappraisal was relatively easy to implement. The opposite was true for high‐intensity stimuli, which might require a more flexible recruitment of resources beyond what is reflected in resting state connectivity patterns. Resting‐state effective connectivity emerged as a robust predictor for successful reappraisal, revealing both shared and distinct network dynamics for high‐ and low‐intensity stimuli. These patterns signify specific preparatory states associated with heightened vigilance, attention, self‐awareness, and goal‐directed cognitive processing, particularly during reappraisal for mitigating the emotional impact of external stimuli. Our findings hold potential implications for understanding psychopathological alterations in brain connectivity related to affective disorders.
Characteristics and outcome of patients with malaria presented to a Hong Kong emergency department—A retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Yeung Chi Yeung , Yang Marc L. C. , Kwong Yan W. Y. , Rainer Timothy Hudson
Published: March 2024

Background

Malaria remains a significant cause of illness for return travellers in Hong Kong. However, the lack of experience of local healthcare providers in tropical medicine and non‐specific presenting symptoms may lead to underdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of the disease. We evaluate patients presenting with malaria to a local emergency department to understand the disease presentation and outcome.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients diagnosed with malaria presenting to the emergency department from January 2009 to December 2019 was conducted. Information about patient demographics, travel history, presenting vital signs and blood results, how the diagnosis is made, clinical features and outcomes were analysed. Subgroup analysis was also performed for comparison.

Results

Among the 70 patients diagnosed with malaria, most of them were imported cases (98.6%). Most were infected with Plasmodium Falciparum (50%) and Plasmodium vivax (45.7%). The common presenting symptoms included fever (100%), nausea or vomiting (42.9%) and headache (38.6%). 43 out of 70 cases had a diagnosis made in the emergency department, either by malarial blood smear (34.3%) or incidental haematological findings (27.1%). Most cases could be discharged uneventfully (90%), with six cases requiring Intensive Care Unit admission during the stay (8.6%). Patients with diagnoses not made in AED had a significantly lower mean arterial pressure (p = 0.009) and haemoglobin level (p = 0.004). Significantly lower platelet count (p = 0.002) and higher bilirubin level (p = 0.041) were found in patients who required ICU admission. For those who had AED reattendance before diagnosis was made, their creatinine levels were significantly higher (p = 0.022) and had a longer length of stay (p = 0.021).

Conclusions

The clinical presentation of imported malaria cases is non‐specific, and high suspicion of malaria should be raised when diagnosing febrile patients with a travel history. The history of taking malarial chemoprophylaxis is essential and should have been included in most cases. Malarial‐specific treatments were rarely given in the emergency department despite diagnosis.
Use of in vitro ADME methods to identify suitable analogs of homosalate and octisalate for use in a read‐across safety assessment
Authors: Grégoire Sébastien , Moustié Anne , Lereaux Guillaume , Roussel‐Berlier Laurène , Hewitt Nicky
Published: March 2024

Case studies are needed to demonstrate the use of human‐relevant New Approach Methodologies in cosmetics ingredient safety assessments. For read‐across assessments, it is crucial to compare the target chemical with the most appropriate analog; therefore, reliable analog selection should consider physicochemical properties, bioavailability, metabolism, as well as the bioactivity of potential analogs. To complement in vitro bioactivity assays, we evaluated the suitability of three potential analogs for the UV filters, homosalate and octisalate, according to their in vitro ADME properties. We describe how technical aspects of conducting assays for these highly lipophilic chemicals were addressed and interpreted. There were several properties that were common to all five chemicals: they all had similar stability in gastrointestinal fluids (in which no hydrolysis to salicylic occurred); were not substrates of the P‐glycoprotein efflux transporter; were highly protein bound; and were hydrolyzed to salicylic acid (which was also a major metabolite). The main properties differentiating the chemicals were their permeability in Caco‐2 cells, plasma stability, clearance in hepatic models, and the extent of hydrolysis to salicylic acid. Cyclohexyl salicylate, octisalate, and homosalate were identified suitable analogs for each other, whereas butyloctyl salicylate exhibited ADME properties that were markedly different, indicating it is unsuitable. Isoamyl salicylate can be a suitable analog with interpretation for octisalate. In conclusion, in vitro ADME properties of five chemicals were measured and used to pair target and potential analogs. This study demonstrates the importance of robust ADME data for the selection of analogs in a read‐across safety assessment.
Identification and validation of extracellular vesicle reference genes for the normalization of RT‐qPCR data
Authors: Pinheiro Cláudio , Guilbert Niké , Lippens Lien , Roux Quentin , Boiy Robin , Fischer Suzanne , Van Dorpe Sofie , De Craene Bram , Berx Geert , Boterberg Tom , Sys Gwen , Denys Hannelore , Miinalainen Ilkka , Mestdagh Pieter , Vandesompele Jo , De Wever Olivier , Hendrix An
Published: March 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) contain a plethora of biomolecules, including nucleic acids, with diverse diagnostic and therapeutic application potential. Although reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) is the most widely applied laboratory technique to evaluate gene expression, its applicability in EV research is challenged by the lack of universal and stably present reference genes (RGs). In this study, we identify, validate and establish SNRPG, OST4, TOMM7 and NOP10 as RGs for the normalization of EV‐associated genes by RT‐qPCR. We show the stable presence of SNRPG, OST4, TOMM7 and NOP10 in multiple cell lines and their secreted EVs (n = 12) under different (patho)physiological conditions as well as in human‐derived biofluids (n = 3). Enzymatic treatments confirm the presence of SNRPG, OST4, TOMM7 and NOP10 inside EVs. In addition, the four EV‐associated RGs are stably detected in a size‐range of EV subpopulations. RefFinder analysis reveals that SNRPG, OST4, TOMM7 and NOP10 are more stable compared to RGs established specifically for cultured cells or tissues such as HMBS, YWHAZ, SDHA and GAPDH. In summary, we present four universal and stably present EV‐associated RGs to enable normalization and thus steer the implementation of RT‐qPCR for the analysis of EV‐associated RNA cargo for research or clinical applications.
Machine Learning Approaches to Identify Affected Brain Regions in Movement Disorders Using MRI Data: A Systematic Review and Diagnostic Meta‐analysis
Authors: Ghaderi Sadegh , Mohammadi Mahdi , Sayehmiri Fatemeh , Mohammadi Sana , Tavasol Arian , Rezaei Masoud , Ghalyanchi‐Langeroudi Azadeh
Published: March 2024

Background

Movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease are associated with structural and functional changes in specific brain regions. Advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques combined with machine learning (ML) are promising tools for identifying imaging biomarkers and patterns associated with these disorders.

Purpose/Hypothesis

We aimed to systematically identify the brain regions most commonly affected in movement disorders using ML approaches applied to structural and functional MRI data. We searched the PubMed and Scopus databases using relevant keywords up to June 2023 for studies that used ML approaches to detect brain regions associated with movement disorders using MRI data.

Study Type

A systematic review and diagnostic meta‐analysis.

Population/Subjects

Sixty‐seven studies with 6,285 patients were included.

Field Strength/Sequence

Studies utilizing 1.5T or 3T MR scanners and the acquisition of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), structural MRI (sMRI), functional MRI (fMRI), or a combination of these were included.

Assessment

The authors independently assessed the study quality using the CLAIM and QUADAS‐2 criteria and extracted data on diagnostic accuracy measures.

Statistical Tests

Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve were pooled using random‐effects models. Q statistics and the I2 index were used to evaluate heterogeneity, and Begg's funnel plot was used to identify publication bias.

Results

sMRI showed the highest sensitivity (93%) and mixed modalities had the highest specificity (90%) for detecting regional abnormalities. sMRI had a 94% sensitivity for identifying subcortical changes. The support vector machine (93%) and logistic regression (91%) models exhibited high diagnostic accuracies.

Data Conclusion

The combination of advanced MR neuroimaging techniques and ML is a promising approach for identifying brain biomarkers and affected regions in movement disorders with subcortical structures frequently implicated. Structural MRI, in particular, showed strong performance.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Risk of Pseudomonas aeruginosa antimicrobial resistance using time series analysis of antibiotic usage
Authors: Papacostas Geordan , Grant Gary D. , Hall Susan
Published: March 2024

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is emerging as one of the most potentially disastrous threats of the 21st century. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is a leading resistant pathogen and is clinically significant due to its limited available treatment using antibiotics. Rising resistance of P. aeruginosa is of increasing concern and it is currently listed as one of the top three critically resistant pathogens by the World Health Organization. It is currently known that resistance in P. aeruginosa is significantly linked with the consumption of all antibiotics, making usage surveillance of particular concern.

Aim

The aim of the current study was to model current and future antibiotic usage using available prescription data for antipseudomonal antibiotics.

Method

A time‐series analysis was performed on Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme/Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme data from January 2000–June 2020 using Facebook Prophet time‐series methods in Python 3.9.14 to analyse and forecast trends to 2025. Ethical approval was not required for this research article as it used publicly available data and did not involve human subjects.

Results

The usage of antipseudomonal antibiotics decreased by 14.3% from 2014 to 2020 (95% confidence interval [CI] −30.4% to 2.3%) and is projected to further decrease by 11.7% by 2025 (95% CI −30.6% to 7.3%).

Conclusion

The current study showed a decline in the use of certain antipseudomonal antibiotics in Australia since 2015 and projects that their use will continue to decline. This is likely due to an increased judicious use of these antibiotics.
Development and Characterization of Poly(butylene succinate‐co‐adipate)/Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) with Cowpea Lignocellulosic Fibers as a Filler via Injection Molding and Extrusion Film‐Casting
Authors: Masanabo Mondli Abednicko , Tribot Amélie , Luoma Enni , Virkajärvi Jussi , Sharmin Nusrat , Sivertsvik Morten , Ray Suprakas Sinha , Keränen Janne , Emmambux M. Naushad
Published: March 2024

Biodegradable poly(butylene succinate‐co‐adipate)/Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydoxyvalerate) (PBSA/PHBV) filled with lignocellulosic sidestream/fibers from cowpea, a neglected and underutilized African crop are produced by injection molding and extrusion film casting. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) suggests that the fibers have more affinity and interfacial interaction with PBSA than PHBV. This is shown by a decrease in dampening of PBSA and an increase in dampening of PHBV with fiber addition. In addition, fiber addition results in more homogeneous crystal morphology of PBSA, while resulting in more heterogeneous crystal morphology of PHBV. The tensile strength of injection molded bio‐composites increases with fiber addition due to good interfacial adhesion between the matrix and fibers revealed by scanning electron microscope. In contrast, the tensile strength of bio‐composite films decreases with fiber addition due to the high‐volume fraction of pores in bio‐composite films that act as stress raisers. The stiffness of both injection molded, and bio‐composite films increase with fiber addition, as revealed by an increase in Young's modulus and storage modulus, while the tensile strain decreases. In conclusion, low‐value cowpea sidestream can be used as a filler to produce injection molded bio‐composites and bio‐composite films for potential application as rigid and flexible packaging.
Phosphoserine aminotransferase deficiency diagnosed by whole‐exome sequencing and LC–MS/MS reanalysis: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Li Jiaci , Wei Xinping , Sun Yuchen , Chen Xiaofang , Zhang Ying , Cui Xiaoyu , Shu Jianbo , Li Dong , Cai Chunquan
Published: March 2024

Background

Phosphoserine aminotransferase deficiency (PSATD) is an autosomal recessive disorder associated with hypertonia, psychomotor retardation, and acquired microcephaly. Patients with PSATD have low concentrations of serine in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid.

Methods

We reported a 2‐year‐old female child with developmental delay, dyskinesia, and microcephaly. LC–MS/MS was used to detect amino acid concentration in the blood and whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was used to identify the variants. PolyPhen‐2 web server and PyMol were used to predict the pathogenicity and changes in the 3D model molecular structure of protein caused by variants.

Results

WES demonstrated compound heterozygous variants in PSAT1, which is associated with PSATD, with a paternal likely pathogenic variant (c.235G>A, Gly79Arg) and a maternal likely pathogenic variant (c.43G>C, Ala15Pro). Reduced serine concentration in LC–MS/MS further confirmed the diagnosis of PSATD in this patient.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the importance of WES combined with LC–MS/MS reanalysis in the diagnosis of genetic diseases and expand the PSAT1 variant spectrum in PSATD. Moreover, we summarize all the cases caused by PSAT1 variants in the literature. This case provides a vital reference for the diagnosis of future cases.
A novel variant in ASNS gene responsible for syndromic intellectual disability and microcephaly: Case report and literature review
Authors: Jahanpanah Mohammad , Mokhtari Diana , Mokaber Haleh , Arish Sara , Ahmadabadi Farzad , Davarnia Behzad
Published: March 2024

Background

The ASNS (ASNS, MIM 108370) gene variations are responsible for asparagine synthetase deficiency (ASNSD, MIM 615574), a very rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by cerebral anomalies. These patients have congenital microcephaly, progressive encephalopathy, severe intellectual disability, and intractable seizures.

Method

Clinical characteristics of the patient were collected. Exome sequencing was used for the identification of variants. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the variant in the target region. The structure of the protein was checked using the DynaMut2 web server.

Results

The proband is an 11‐year‐old Iranian‐Azeri girl with primary microcephaly and severe intellectual disability in a family with a consanguineous marriage. Symptoms emerged around the 10–20th days of life, when refractory epileptic gaze and unilateral tonic–clonic seizures initiated without any provoking factor such as fever. A brain MRI revealed no abnormalities except for brain atrophy. The karyotype was normal. Using exome sequencing, we identified a novel homozygous variant of thymine to adenine (NM_001673.5:c.538T>A) in the ASNS gene. Both parents had a heterozygous variant in this location. Subsequently, Sanger sequencing confirmed this variant. We also reviewed the clinical manifestations and MRI findings of the previously reported patients.

Conclusion

In the present study, a novel homozygous variant was recognized in the ASNS gene in an Iranian‐Azeri girl manifesting typical ASNSD symptoms, particularly intellectual disability and microcephaly. This study expands the mutation spectrum of ASNSD and reviews previously reported patients.
Charitable versus commercial crowdfunding: Which is more successful on StartLab?
Authors: Svidroňová Mária Murray , Kaščáková Alena , Muthová Nikoleta Jakuš
Published: March 2024

Crowdfunding is currently one of the funding options for charitable non‐profit projects created by non‐governmental organizations (NGOs). This paper aims to analyse the charity projects created by NGOs and individuals on crowdfunding platforms and then compare them with commercial crowdfunding, emphasizing the success factors of charity campaigns. The data is from the crowdfunding portal StartLab from 2015 to 2022. The main methods are comparison, descriptive and correlation analysis concerning project categories and seasonality. From the investigation results, it can be concluded that charity projects are more successful in conducting crowdfunding campaigns than commercial projects. For practitioners, it might be of interest that the length of the campaign and seasonality significantly influence the project's success. In the case of Slovakia, it is recommended to set a shorter campaign and run it from October to December.
A systematic literature review of TALIS secondary research: Trends and future directions
Authors: Veletić Jelena , Mejía‐Rodríguez Ana María , Olsen Rolf Vegar
Published: March 2024

The Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) collects data from representative samples of teachers and principals across the world about their practices and work conditions, school and classroom contexts, and attitudes, motivation, and satisfaction with their profession and jobs. Given the growth of participating countries, the number of constructs assessed, and the volume of publications based on secondary analyses of the freely available data, it is reasonable to claim that TALIS represents one of the major data sources in the field of international educational research. This study provides a systematic literature review of secondary analyses of TALIS data, summarising the past 15 years of TALIS research. The review includes a synthesis of 238 peer‐reviewed journal articles, providing bibliographical information about articles as well as the scope and impact of analysis of TALIS data across time, countries, and populations. Moreover, the article summarises information about the most prevalent research themes that have been investigated. The findings highlight the importance of TALIS data in the broader educational research scope, emphasising themes such as teacher characteristics, and teacher professional practices. Lastly, the review provides insights into methodological approaches to study and analyse TALIS data and calls for more caution in analysing complex survey data with respect to how clustering and multigroup design are handled.
Sample size adaptation designs and efficiency comparison with group sequential designs
Authors: Cui Lu
Published: March 2024

This study is to give a systematic account of sample size adaptation designs (SSADs) and to provide direct proof of the efficiency advantage of general SSADs over group sequential designs (GSDs) from a different perspective. For this purpose, a class of sample size mapping functions to define SSADs is introduced. Under the two‐stage adaptive clinical trial setting, theorems are developed to describe the properties of SSADs. Sufficient conditions are derived and used to prove analytically that SSADs based on the weighted combination test can be uniformly more efficient than GSDs in a range of likely values of the true treatment difference . As shown in various scenarios, given a GSD, a fully adaptive SSAD can be obtained that has sufficient statistical power similar to that of the GSD but has a smaller average sample size for all in the range. The associated sample size savings can be substantial. A practical design example and suggestions on the steps to find efficient SSADs are also provided.
Robust Superhydrophobic Composite Fabric with Self‐Healing and Chemical Durability
Authors: Tao Jing , Liu Yuanfa , Li Minghan , Li Zheng , Zhang Yihang , Song Xuecui , Yang Qiang , Guan Fucheng , Guo Jing
Published: March 2024

Superhydrophobic fabrics with multiple functions have become a research hotspot. However, it is challenging to make self‐healing mechanically robust and eco‐friendly superhydrophobic fabrics, which are limited by complex fabrication processes and excessive use of environmentally unfriendly solvents during fabrication. Herein, inspired by the secretion of a waxy substance from the surface of lotus leaves to restore water repellency, self‐healing superhydrophobic composite fabrics (as‐synthesized PA66/6‐PET@Tico) are obtained by constructing a papillary TiO2 and tentacle‐like fluorinated acrylate polymer (FCB015) coating on polyester‐nylon composite fabrics using two‐step hydrothermal method. The result indicates that PA66/6‐PET@Tico with hierarchical micro/nanostructure exhibits excellent superhydrophobic and self‐healing properties. Compared with FCB015 coated fabric, the contact angles (CA) of water and soybean oil rise to 172.2° and 166.8° from 137.4° and 98.8°, respectively. After mechanical abrasion, PA66/6‐PET@Tico recovers a water contact angle (WCA) of 165.6° at room temperature. The WCA remains higher than 155° after 18 h of chemical corrosion. Furthermore, the bacterial inhibition rates of PA66/6‐PET@Tico for Staphylococcus Aureus and Escherichia Coli are 99.90 and 98.38%, respectively. In this work, a new idea is proposed for designing a simple and effective self‐healing superhydrophobic coating, expecting to promote the large‐scale industrial production and application of functional surfaces.
Nephroprotective effects of silymarin and its fabricated nanoparticles against aluminum‐induced oxidative stress, hyperlipidemia, and genotoxicity
Authors: El‐Demerdash Fatma M. , Ahmed Manal M. , El‐Sayed Raghda A. , Mohemed Tarek M. , Gerges Marian N.
Published: March 2024

Background

Aluminum (Al) is a ubiquitous element with proven nephrotoxicity. Silymarin (SM) is a mixture of polyphenolic components extracted fromSilybum marianumand exhibited protective influences. However, SM bioactivity can be enhanced by its incorporation in chitosan (CS) through the use of nanotechnology. This work proposed to assess the protective influence of SM and its loaded chitosan nanoparticles (SM‐CS‐NPs) on aluminum chloride (AlCl3)‐induced nephrotoxicity.

Methods

Six groups were created randomly from 42 male Wistar rats and each one contains 7 rats (n = 7). Group I, acted as a control and received water. Group II received SM (15 mg/kg/day) and group III administered with SM‐CS‐NPs (15 mg/kg/day). Group IV received AlCl3(34 mg/kg) and groups V and VI were treated with SM and SM‐CS‐NPs with AlCl3respectively for 30 days.

Results

AlCl3administration significantly elevated TBARS, H2O2, and kidney function levels besides LDH activity. Whereas GSH, CAT, SOD, GPx, GST, and GR values were all substantially reduced along with protein content, and ALP activity. Additionally, significant alterations in lipid profile, hematological parameters, and renal architecture were observed. Moreover, TNF‐α, TGF‐β, and MMP9 gene expression were upregulated in kidney tissues. The administration of SM or its nanoparticles followed by AlCl3intoxication attenuated renal dysfunction replenished the antioxidant system, and downregulated TNF‐α, TGF‐β, and MMP9 gene expression in renal tissues compared to the AlCl3group.

Conclusion

SM‐CS‐NPs have more pronounced appreciated protective effects than SM and have the proficiency to balance oxidant/antioxidant systems in addition to their anti‐inflammatory effect against AlCl3toxicity.
Immunotoxicity of ionic liquid [C14mim]BF4 in rats
Authors: Shu Manyu , Tan Pengzhen , Ge Yueyue , Tian Xingxing , Xu Hongmei
Published: March 2024

Ionic liquid tetrafluoroborated‐1‐tetradecyl‐3‐methylimidazole salt ([C14mim]BF4) immunotoxicity was investigated in rats using three exposure groups (12.5, 25, and 50 mg kg−1), one recovery group (50 mg kg−1), and a control group without any treatment. The findings demonstrated that, at low doses, [C14mim]BF4 could raise WBC, NEU, and MID and lysozyme levels as well as spleen T‐lymphocyte stimulation index in rats, however at high doses, the aforementioned indices were dramatically lowered. As the dose was raised, the proportion of RBC and PLT in the blood as well as CD4+ and CD8+ in the spleen increased, but the quantity of immunoglobulin IgG, IgA, and IgM in the serum as well as the number of NK cells in the spleen considerably dropped. Even though there were varying degrees of improvement 30 days after ceasing exposure, all these changes were unable to return to normal, and the number of NK cells was further decreased. The study demonstrates that [C14mim]BF4 can damage the specific immunity and non‐specific immunity of rats, and cause immune dysfunction.
Biosurfactant production by a crude oil‐utilizing bacterium towards petroleum hydrocarbon biodegradation applications
Authors: Kieu Thi Quynh Hoa , Nguyen Thi Yen , Nguyen Van Tho , Nguyen Thi Ngoc Quynh
Published: March 2024

Biosurfactants produced by microorganisms are green amphiphilic biomolecules. They have numerous advantages compared to chemical surfactants including a lower toxicity, better environmental compatibility and effective and stable properties under extreme conditions such as a wide range of temperature, pH and salinity. A highly bio‐surfactant‐producing strain of Bacillus, VTVK15 was selected among the Bacillus isolates from marine environment and oil contaminated sites in Ba Ria‐Vung Tau. Sequence analysis of 16S rDNA showed that the VTVK15 strain was 99% similar with 16s rDNA sequence of Bacillus megaterium. The suitable conditions for the bio‐surfactant production by the strain VTVK15 were 37 °C, pH 7; 2% w/v and 0.4% w/v for temperature, initial solution pH, concentration of carbon substrate (crude oil), and concentration of nitrogen substrate ((NH4)2SO4), respectively. The emulsification index (E24) increased from 51.8% to 67.7% with suitable conditions. The petroleum hydrocarbon degradation (TPH) efficiency by the strain Bacillus megaterium VTVK15 in crude oil estimated using TPH analysis was 72% after 14 days. These results revealed that the strain VTVK15 exhibited a tremendous potential for bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbon contaminants.
Regression analysis of horizontal magnetic field in thermophysical convective flow of nanofluid
Authors: Rauf Amar , Aslam Nimra , Mushtaq Tahir , Siddiq Muhammad Kamran , Mustafa Fakhar , Shehzad Sabir Ali
Published: March 2024

The existence of magnetic field is beneficial to stabilize the fluid flow patterns in modern era industrial implications and engineering problems. A constant horizontal magnetized field is implemented to stabilize the swirl viscous fluid flow created by disk rotation. The heat transmission equation is expressed by the variable fluid property that the thermal conductivity is dependent on temperature. Buongiorno nanofluid model is applied to express the role of thermophoresis and Brownian movement. The flow governing equations are normalized through the von Kármán classical similarity variables. The impacts of magnetic and other physical parameters on velocity, thermal and concentration fields are investigated in numerical way using RKF‐45 (Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg) built‐in procedure. The critical part of horizontal magnetic field and dimensionless parameters onto physical quantities such as wall shears, thermal rate, and concentration rate are highlighted. Regression analysis is also performed to evaluate the impact of obtained numerical values of such physical quantities on flow rates. Unlike the familiar impacts of a uniformly applied transverse magnetic field that concerns the velocity field stabilizing and decreasing the thermal rate, it is established that the horizontal magnetized field is valuable for stabilizing/destabilizing the flow phenomenon. The results also matched with the published work in limiting case.