bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Walk‐in Together: A pilot study of a walk‐in online family therapy intervention
Authors: Hartley Eliza , Moore Lynda , Knuckey Aaron , von Doussa Henry , Painter Felicity , Story Karen , Barrington Nick , Young Jeff , McIntosh Jennifer
Published: May 2023

Many Australians are requiring mental health care, including families, leading to long wait times in order to access support. Walk‐in therapy reduces barriers to mental health support services by providing support at the time that families seek help. This paper presents a proof‐of‐concept study investigating the acceptability and short‐term effectiveness of an online walk‐in family therapy service, Walk‐in Together (WIT). Part 1 of the paper describes the experiences of 44 family members from 22 families who presented to a public family therapy clinic for a virtual walk‐in family therapy session. The session was conducted by a team of three experienced family therapists. Family members' experiences were sought pre‐session, post‐session, and at 6 weeks follow‐up via survey and interview. Part 2 of the paper explores therapist perceptions (n = 7) of the WIT approach, through thematic analysis of semi‐structured interview data. Post‐session feedback showed 85% of family members found WIT to be helpful and 50% were optimistic about their future as a family after their WIT session. Six weeks post‐session it was revealed that WIT supported planning for families in equipping them to move forward with 88% of family members reporting that they knew what to do after the session. All therapists uniformly experienced the model as offering a timely and beneficial service, suitable for diverse presentations and constellations of families. These preliminary results suggest the significant utility of this WIT intervention as a well‐received and helpful service for families, who valued the easy access and rapid therapeutic response afforded by the online, walk‐in delivery model. This proof‐of‐concept paper suggests the potential for further development and growth of WIT, as well as other mental health support services using a walk‐in, telehealth model to meet the rising demand for therapeutic support for families in distress.
Effectiveness of the Coral Tree Family Service family inpatient unit: a longitudinal study exploring change in family functioning
Authors: Plunkett Leah J. , Reece John , Symond Matthew P. , Leung Tania
Published: May 2023

Child mental health disorders represent a major burden to public health in Australia due to high prevalence rates, the widespread impact across domains, and the potential for difficulties to persist into adolescence and adulthood. Extensive evidence exists for the use of parent management training and cognitive behavioural therapy to treat difficulties experienced by children; however, a proportion of children do not benefit as expected from these treatments. The use of complementary therapeutic approaches and variations to the mode and intensity of existing intervention is warranted; family inpatient units represent a unique example of this. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a well‐established Australian inpatient unit that admits the whole family, for children aged 12 years and younger referred with mental health, behavioural, or emotional difficulties. This study's longitudinal within‐subject study design utilised routinely collected outcome data from the systemic clinical outcome and routine evaluation, 15 item (SCORE‐15)—a valid and reliable measure of family functioning—from a sample of 980 participants attending the Family Residential Program. This study reported significant improvement in family functioning across all outcome variables between baseline and post‐intervention, with no variables returning to pre‐intervention levels at follow‐up. Clinically significant changes in overall family functioning showed that 37% of participant scores moved from the clinical range at baseline to the nonclinical range post‐intervention. This study represents the first empirical evaluation of the Family Residential Program, and the reported results provide compelling evidence for the program to effect improvement in family functioning for families with long‐standing and severe difficulties. Poor rates of questionnaire completion following intervention frequent the literature base of family inpatient units, with low post‐intervention (56%) and follow‐up (12%) rates evident in this study. This study uniquely contributes to the growing evidence base of family inpatient units using rigorous evaluation methods.
Different cationic functionalized epichlorohydrin modified polyvinyl alcohol based anion exchange membrane
Authors: Jiang Ying , Shen Chunhui , Chen Junjie , Lu Hao , Guo Yichuan , Gao Shanjun
Published: May 2023

Low ionic conductivity and poor alkali resistance have long been the problems of the anion exchange membrane (AEM) of alkaline fuel cell. Herein, epichlorohydrin functionalized by three different cations (piperidine cation, imidazole cation and trimethylammonium cation) are respectively used to modify polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to prepare a series of PVA based AEMs, and the AEMs are cross‐linked by p‐phthalaldehyde. 1H NMR and FT‐IR spectroscopy confirm the successful functionalization of epichlorohydrin and the successful preparation of the AEMs. The ion exchange capacity, water uptake, swelling ratio, mechanical properties, thermal stability, OH− conductivity, morphology and alkaline stability of the AEMs are assessed and compared. The experimental results suggest that the AEM modified by piperidine cation owns continuous ion channels and obvious microphase separation structure, resulting in an OH− conductivity of 94.13 mS cm−1 at 80°C. And its alkali resistance is also relatively good (87.16%, 360 h). Besides, crosslinking by p‐phthalaldehyde effectively lowers the swelling ratio, increases the thermal stability and improves the mechanical properties of the AEMs.
Harmonization of criteria and terminology in fetal rat skeletal evaluations
Authors: Posobiec L. M. , Kopp C. , Murzyn S. M. , Olitan T. , Rendemonti J. , French J. , Tamborini E. , Campey J. , Longo M. , Danberry T. , Vaillancourt M. , Nowland W. , Daoud M. , Qualls C. , Harris S. B.
Published: May 2023

Background

A survey of laboratories in North American and Europe that routinely conduct fetal skeletal examinations was performed with the purpose of (1) understanding current terminology used for classifying skeletal findings in developmental toxicity (DT) studies and (2) understanding the criteria used to identify relatively common findings that sufficiently deviate from normal. The goal was to promote terminology harmonization and improve interlaboratory consistency in the criteria used to identify developmental anomalies.

Methods

The survey, designed based on terminology for developmental anomalies recommended by an international collaboration (Makris et al., Congenital Anomalies, 2009;49(3):123–246), was conducted by a subgroup (authors of this publication) of the Royal Society of Biology's International Register of Fetal Morphologists (IRFM).

Results

Individual and summarized anonymized responses are provided here. The authors, who are expert fetal morphologists with experience performing fetal examinations, reviewed the responses and generated recommendations on preferred terminology and criteria for determining when morphological variations deviate from normal and warrant recording of the findings for skeletal observations in Sprague Dawley (SD) fetal rats. The objective of these recommendations is to complement Makris et al. (Congenital Anomalies, 2009;49(3):123–246).

Conclusion

The broad application will improve interlaboratory harmonization of recording fetal skeleton findings in developmental toxicity studies intended for regulatory submissions, including SEND (Standard for Exchange of Nonclinical Data).
Successful endoscopic hemostasis for waterfall‐like gastroduodenal artery hemorrhage
Authors: Jinushi Ryuhei , Koizumi Kazuya , Masuda Sakue , Ryozawa Shomei
Published: May 2023

Key clinical message

Endoscopic hemostasis is the first step in cessation of gastrointestinal bleeding. Although IVR may sometimes be required for preventing rebleeding, prophylactic IVR was not considered necessary in this case because of complete endoscopic hemostasis.
HHV8‐unrelated primary effusion lymphoma in a patient with HBV‐related liver cirrhosis: A case successfully treated with rituximab and lenalidomide
Authors: Liao Peng‐Jun , Yuan Hui , Wei Xiao‐Juan
Published: May 2023

Human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV‐8) unrelated primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) like lymphoma (PEL‐LL) is an exceedingly rare non‐Hodgkin lymphoma with no characteristic symptoms and consensus on the optimal treatment. This case report presents a 55‐year‐old man with prior HBV‐related Child‐Pugh B liver cirrhosis and developing activity‐related dyspnea. A moderate amount of pleural effusion was identified without tumor masses, and cytological studies confirmed a diagnosis of PEL‐LL. The patient received rituximab and lenalidomide, albeit with HBV infection, and is currently on maintenance therapy with resolving symptoms but without HBV reactivation. Hence, the R2 protocol (rituximab and lenalidomide) might be clinically effective and safe for PEL‐LL patients with HBV infection and Child‐Pugh B liver cirrhosis.
Intracranial nasofrontal dermoid cyst and a hair in the nose tip without a sinus tract identified with single‐staged combined approach excision done
Authors: Tam Aurora Ka Yue , Zhu Xian Lun , Chow Samuel Man Wai , Lee Shui Kwong John , Lai Calvin Chee Fung , Chan Kit Ying , Chu Winnie Chiu Wing , Tong Michael Chi Fai
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

This is the first reported case of intracranial nasofrontal dermoid without sinus tract, with complete excision done in single‐staged combined approach frontal craniotomy and open rhinoplasty, and satisfactory nasal reconstruction.
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia complicating a chronic neutrophilic leukemia: A case report of a rare association
Authors: Rakez Rim , Charef Ons , Boufrikha Wiem , Rassas Syrin , Boukhriss Sarra , Laatiri Mohamed Adnene
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

Chronic neutrophilic leukemia is a rare disease with a poor prognosis. Its diagnosis is challenging in the lack of genetic tools. It can infrequently be associated with autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

Chronic neutrophilic leukemia is a rare disease with poor prognosis, characterized by a sustained mature neutrophilic leukocytosis in the absence of monocytosis or basophilia with few or no circulating immature granulocytes, hepatosplenomegaly, and granulocytic hyperplasia of the bone marrow. In addition, no molecular markers for other myeloproliferative neoplasms are detected. The 2016 WHO classification included the presence of the CSF3R mutation as a key diagnostic criterion for this disease. Although anemia may be present at diagnosis, hemolytic one rarely complicates myeloproliferative neoplasms. Treatment is largely based on cytoreductive agents, but bone marrow allograft remains the only curative option. We report the case of a patient with chronic neutrophilic leukemia associated with autoimmune hemolytic anemia. We describe the epidemiological, clinical, prognostic, and therapeutic features of this disease in addition to the difficulties of its diagnosis and management in Tunisia.
Design of Stable 2D Heterostructured Photocatalyst for Drastically Improved Hydrogen Generation and Unravelling the Underlying Charge Carrier Dynamics
Authors: Kumar Niharika , Mrinalini Madoori , Bastia Sweta , Mishra Rajashree P. , Sahoo Manas K. , Chaudhary Yatendra S.
Published: May 2023

The design of heterostructured photocatalysts comprising of 2‐D mesoporous C3N3 (π‐conjugated bonds with one less nitrogen atom in the ring to promote the better electron transport unlike conventional g‐C3N4) donor coupled with the MoS2 acceptor by a template‐directed thermal synthesis followed by hydrothermal synthesis is presented. The formation and coupling of MoS2 through basal planes on the surface of mpg‐CN has been confirmed by the XRD, XPS (C/N ratio of the order of 1), and lengthening of the C−N bond as revealed by increasing intensity of FTIR peak (1232 cm−1), respectively. Upon optimization, MS‐mpg‐CN exhibits 10‐fold enhancement in hydrogen generation rate and efficiency (∼86500 μmolg−1 h−1, IPCE: ∼64 %) than that of observed for MS‐mpg‐C3N4 photocatalyst (∼8250 μmolg−1 h−1, IPCE: ∼5.6 %). The lower PL emission intensity, average lifetime (1.91 ns) of charge carriers, precise semicircle in Nyquist plot and higher degree of band bending (Efb −0.64 eV), higher ‘g’ value (2.0038) in the EPR imply improved charge carrier separation, transfer kinetics and formation of intimate heterojunction, respectively. Furthermore, hydrogen evolution measured for subsequent days while reusing photocatalyst shows no significant change in the activity (∼1.2 % variation over three consecutive cycles), confirming their photostability and reusability.
Ligand‐Directed H2S Probe and Scavenger for Specific Tumor Imaging
Authors: Cai Xuekang , Zhang Jingming , Ye Haishun , Cui Kai , Hao Tingting , Yi Long , Yang Xing
Published: May 2023

An expanding body of evidence suggests that specifically targeting hydrogen sulfide (H2S) might potentially benefit both tumor diagnosis and treatment, but there is still a lack of cancer‐targeted molecular tools for in vivo applications. Here, we report the first ligand‐directed H2S‐specific near‐infrared fluorescent sensor PSMA‐Cy7‐NBD and scavenger PSMA‐Py‐NBD that target the prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA). PSMA‐Cy7‐NBD displays a 53‐fold off–on fluorescence response to H2S at 803 nm with high specificity. PSMA‐Py‐NBD can scavenge H2S fast (k2=30.8 M−1 s−1 at 25 °C) without interference from biothiols. Both tools are highly water‐soluble and can be transported selectively into PSMA‐expressing prostate cancer cells. Endogenous H2S levels in murine 22Rv1 tumor models can be imaged and downregulated by intravenous injection of PSMA‐Cy7‐NBD and PSMA‐Py‐NBD, respectively. These tools could potentially help to investigate H2S cancer biology and with related therapies.
Picolinaldehyde‐Zinc(II)‐Palladium(0) Catalytic System for the Asymmetric α‐Allylation of N‐Unprotected Amino Esters
Authors: Li Qian , Liu Yan , Li Can
Published: May 2023

Reported in this work is a synergistic ternary achiral picolinaldehyde‐Zn(II)‐chiral palladium complex system for the highly enantioselective α‐allylation of N‐unprotected amino esters. By utilizing a variety of allylic carbonates or vinyl benzoxazinanones as substrates, α‐allyl α‐amino esters were obtained in high yields (up to 96 %) with high enantioselectivities (up to 98 % ee). Control experiments suggest that the coordination of Zn(II) with the Schiff base intermediate enhances the acidity of the α‐C−H bonds of amino esters, thereby favoring α‐allylation over intrinsic N‐allylation. Furthermore, NMR studies reveal an interaction between the chiral palladium complex and the Zn(II)‐Schiff base intermediate, leading to the formation of a picolinaldehyde‐Zn(II)‐Pd(0) catalytic system.
Short‐term and long‐term effect of nutrition intervention in the Linxian Dysplasia Nutrition Intervention Trial and the reason for disappearance of the intervention effect: A cohort study
Authors: Fan Jin‐hu , Sun Wan‐yi , Yang Huan , Wang Xiao‐kun , Abnet Christian C. , Qiao You‐lin
Published: May 2023

Background

The objective of this study was to determine the short‐term and long‐term effects of a nutrition intervention in using 37 years of follow‐up data.

Methods

The Linxian Dysplasia Population Nutrition Intervention Trial was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial with 7 years of intervention and 30 years of follow‐up. The Cox proportional hazard model was used for analyses. Subgroup analyses were conducted in age and sex subgroups, and the 30 years of follow‐up were divided into two 15‐year early and late periods.

Results

The results at 37 years did not indicate any effects on mortality from cancers or other diseases. In the first 15 years, the intervention decreased the overall risk of gastric cancer deaths in all participants (hazard ratio [HR], 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58–1.00) and in the subgroup participants younger than 55 years (HR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.43–0.96). In addition, in the group younger than 55 years (HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.35–0.96), the intervention decreased the risk of death from other diseases; and, in the group aged 55 years and older (HR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.58–0.98), the intervention reduced the risk of death from heart disease. There were no significant results in the later 15 years, which indicated the disappearance of the intervention effect. Comparing demographic characteristics between those who died during the two periods, the participants who died later included more women, had a higher education level, had a lower smoking rate, were younger, and also more had a mild degree of esophageal dysplasia, representing a better lifestyle and health condition.

Conclusions

Long‐term follow‐up indicated no effect of nutrition on deaths in a population with esophageal squamous dysplasia, further supporting the significance of continuous nutritional intervention for cancer protection. The pattern of protective effect of a nutrition intervention on gastric cancer in patients with esophageal squamous dysplasia was similar to that in the general population. Participants who died in the later period had more protective factors than those who died in the earlier period, contributing to the obvious effect of the intervention in early stage disease.
The feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a self‐advocacy serious game for women with advanced breast or gynecologic cancer
Authors: Thomas Teresa Hagan , Bender Catherine , Donovan Heidi S. , Murray Patty Jo , Taylor Sarah , Rosenzweig Margaret , Sereika Susan M. , Brufsky Adam , Schenker Yael
Published: May 2023

Background

Cancer clinicians and systems aim to provide patient‐centered care, but not all patients have the self‐advocacy skills necessary to ensure their care reflects their needs and priorities. This study examines the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a self‐advocacy serious game (an educational video game) intervention in women with advanced breast or gynecologic cancer.

Methods

Women with recently diagnosed (<3 months) metastatic breast or advanced gynecologic cancer were randomized 2:1 to receive a tablet‐based serious game (Strong Together) (n = 52) or enhanced care as usual (n = 26). Feasibility was based on recruitment, retention, data completion, and intervention engagement. Acceptability was assessed via a postintervention questionnaire and exit interview. Preliminary efficacy was assessed on the basis of change scores from baseline to 3 and 6 months in self‐advocacy (Female Self‐Advocacy in Cancer Survivorship Scale) using intention‐to‐treat analysis.

Results

Seventy‐eight women (55.1% with breast cancer; 44.9% with gynecologic cancer) were enrolled. Feasibility was demonstrated by satisfactory recruitment (69% approach‐to‐consent rate; 93% enroll‐to‐randomize rate), retention (90% and 86% at 3 and 6 months, respectively; 85% data completion), and intervention engagement (84% completed ≥75% of the game). Participants endorsed the intervention’s (75%) and trial’s (87%) acceptability. Participants in the intervention group experienced significant improvements in self‐advocacy at 3 and 6 months compared to participants in the control group.

Conclusions

Strong Together is feasible and acceptable among women with advanced breast or gynecologic cancer. This intervention demonstrates promising evidence of clinical efficacy. A future confirmatory trial is warranted to test the efficacy of the intervention for patient and health system outcomes.
Distributed structural clustering on large graph
Authors: Rong Chuitian , Zhou Jinyu
Published: May 2023

Graph clustering is a primitive operation for graph data mining. It plays an important role to reveal community clusters, hubs, and outliers in complex networks. There are several graph clustering algorithms have been proposed based on the well‐studied SCAN algorithm in recent years. However, SCAN and its improved sequential variants are prohibitively slow due to their iterative computations. The parallel variants are focusing on improving the efficiency of graph clustering by utilizing multi‐cores computer architectures on single computing node with complex optimization techniques. Therefore, SCAN and its variants are not suitable for processing very large graphs due to the limitations of memory size and storage volume on a single node. In this article, we proposed a distributed parallel structural clustering algorithm using MapReduce. In order to improve the efficiency further, we proposed optimization techniques including partition based clustering and simplified combination with labels to accelerate the operations. We conducted extensive experiments on real world datasets. The experimental results showed our algorithm is high efficiency and scales well under different settings.
Machine Learning Application Identifies Germline Markers of Hypertension in Patients With Ovarian Cancer Treated With Carboplatin, Taxane, and Bevacizumab
Authors: Polano Maurizio , Bedon Luca , Dal Bo Michele , Sorio Roberto , Bartoletti Michele , De Mattia Elena , Cecchin Erika , Pisano Carmela , Lorusso Domenica , Lissoni Andrea Alberto , De Censi Andrea , Cecere Sabrina Chiara , Scollo Paolo , Marchini Sergio , Arenare Laura , De Giorgi Ugo , Califano Daniela , Biagioli Elena , Chiodini Paolo , Perrone Francesco , Pignata Sandro , Toffoli Giuseppe
Published: May 2023

Pharmacogenomics studies how genes influence a person's response to treatment. When complex phenotypes are influenced by multiple genetic variations with little effect, a single piece of genetic information is often insufficient to explain this variability. The application of machine learning (ML) in pharmacogenomics holds great potential — namely, it can be used to unravel complicated genetic relationships that could explain response to therapy. In this study, ML techniques were used to investigate the relationship between genetic variations affecting more than 60 candidate genes and carboplatin‐induced, taxane‐induced, and bevacizumab‐induced toxicities in 171 patients with ovarian cancer enrolled in the MITO‐16A/MaNGO‐OV2A trial. Single‐nucleotide variation (SNV, formerly SNP) profiles were examined using ML to find and prioritize those associated with drug‐induced toxicities, specifically hypertension, hematological toxicity, nonhematological toxicity, and proteinuria. The Boruta algorithm was used in cross‐validation to determine the significance of SNVs in predicting toxicities. Important SNVs were then used to train eXtreme gradient boosting models. During cross‐validation, the models achieved reliable performance with a Matthews correlation coefficient ranging from 0.375 to 0.410. A total of 43 SNVs critical for predicting toxicity were identified. For each toxicity, key SNVs were used to create a polygenic toxicity risk score that effectively divided individuals into high‐risk and low‐risk categories. In particular, compared with low‐risk individuals, high‐risk patients were 28‐fold more likely to develop hypertension. The proposed method provided insightful data to improve precision medicine for patients with ovarian cancer, which may be useful for reducing toxicities and improving toxicity management.
ATP13A2 activates the pentose phosphate pathway to promote colorectal cancer growth though TFEB‐PGD axis
Authors: Zhang Fan , Wu Zhiwei , Yu Bowen , Ning Zhengping , Lu Zhixing , Li Liang , Long Fei , Hu Qionggui , Zhong Chonglei , Zhang Yi , Lin Changwei
Published: May 2023

Background

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is an important mechanism by which tumour cells resist stressful environments and maintain malignant proliferation. However, the mechanism by which the PPP regulates these processes in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains elusive.

Methods

Closely related PPP genes were obtained from the TCGA and GEO databases. The effect of ATP13A2 on CRC cell proliferation was evaluated by performing in vitro assays. The connection between the PPP and ATP13A2 was explored by assessing proliferation and antioxidative stress. The molecular mechanism by which ATP13A2 regulates the PPP was investigated using chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual luciferase experiments. The clinical therapeutic potential of ATP13A2 was explored using patient‐derived xenograft (PDX), patient‐derived organoid (PDO) and AOM/DSS models.

Findings

We identified ATP13A2 as a novel PPP‐related gene. ATP13A2 deficiency inhibited CRC growth and PPP activity, as manifested by a decrease in the levels of PPP products and an increase in reactive oxygen species levels, whereas ATP13A2 overexpression induced the opposite effect. Mechanistically, ATP13A2 regulated the PPP mainly by affecting phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (PGD) mRNA expression. Subsequent studies showed that ATP13A2 overexpression promoted TFEB nuclear localization by inhibiting the phosphorylation of TFEB, thereby enhancing the transcription of PGD and ultimately affecting the activity of the PPP. Finally, ATP13A2 knockdown inhibited CRC growth in PDO and PDX models. ATP13A2−/− mice had a lower CRC growth capacity than ATP13A2+/+ in the AOM/DSS model.Our findings revealed that ATP13A2 overexpression‐driven dephosphorylation of TFEB promotes PPP activation by increasing PGD transcription, suggesting that ATP13A2 may serve as a potential target for CRC therapy.
Prevention of foot ulcers in persons with diabetes at risk of ulceration: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: van Netten Jaap J. , Raspovic Anita , Lavery Lawrence A. , Monteiro‐Soares Matilde , Paton Joanne , Rasmussen Anne , Sacco Isabel C. N. , Bus Sicco A.
Published: May 2023

Aims

Prevention of foot ulcers in persons with diabetes is important to help reduce the substantial burden on both individual and health resources. A comprehensive analysis of reported interventions is needed to better inform healthcare professionals about effective prevention. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis is to assess the effectiveness of interventions to prevent foot ulcers in persons with diabetes who are at risk thereof.

Materials and Methods

We searched the available scientific literature in PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane databases and trial registries for original research studies on preventative interventions. Both controlled and non‐controlled studies were eligible for selection. Two independent reviewers assessed risk of bias of controlled studies and extracted data. A meta‐analysis (using Mantel‐Haenszel's statistical method and random effect models) was done when >1 RCT was available that met our criteria. Evidence statements, including the certainty of evidence, were formulated according to GRADE.

Results

From the 19,349 records screened, 40 controlled studies (of which 33 were Randomised Controlled Trials [RCTs]) and 103 non‐controlled studies were included. We found moderate certainty evidence that temperature monitoring (5 RCTs; risk ratio [RR]: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.31–0.84) and pressure‐optimised therapeutic footwear or insoles (2 RCTs; RR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.26–1.47) likely reduce the risk of plantar foot ulcer recurrence in people with diabetes at high risk. Further, we found low certainty evidence that structured education (5 RCTs; RR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.37–1.19), therapeutic footwear (3 RCTs; RR: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.24–1.17), flexor tenotomy (1 RCT, 7 non‐controlled studies, no meta‐analysis), and integrated care (3 RCTs; RR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.58–1.06) may reduce the risk of foot ulceration in people with diabetes at risk for foot ulceration.

Conclusions

Various interventions for persons with diabetes at risk for foot ulceration with evidence of effectiveness are available, including temperature monitoring (pressure‐optimised) therapeutic footwear, structured education, flexor tenotomy, and integrated foot care. With hardly any new intervention studies published in recent years, more effort to produce high‐quality RCTs is urgently needed to further improve the evidence base. This is especially relevant for educational and psychological interventions, for integrated care approaches for persons at high risk of ulceration, and for interventions specifically targeting persons at low‐to‐moderate risk of ulceration.
Practical guidelines on the prevention and management of diabetes‐related foot disease (IWGDF 2023 update)
Authors: Schaper Nicolaas C. , van Netten Jaap J. , Apelqvist Jan , Bus Sicco A. , Fitridge Robert , Game Fran , Monteiro‐Soares Matilde , Senneville Eric ,   the IWGDF Editorial Board
Published: May 2023

Diabetes‐related foot disease results in a major global burden for patients and the healthcare system. The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) has been producing evidence‐based guidelines on the prevention and management of diabetes‐related foot disease since 1999. In 2023, all IWGDF Guidelines have been updated based on systematic reviews of the literature and formulation of recommendations by multidisciplinary experts from all over the world. In addition, a new guideline on acute Charcot neuro‐osteoarthropathy was created. In this document, the IWGDF Practical Guidelines, we describe the basic principles of prevention, classification and management of diabetes‐related foot disease based on the seven IWGDF Guidelines. We also describe the organisational levels to successfully prevent and treat diabetes‐related foot disease according to these principles and provide addenda to assist with foot screening. The information in these practical guidelines is aimed at the global community of healthcare professionals who are involved in the care of persons with diabetes. Many studies around the world support our belief that implementing these prevention and management principles is associated with a decrease in the frequency of diabetes‐related lower‐extremity amputations. The burden of foot disease and amputations is increasing at a rapid rate, and comparatively more so in middle to lower income countries. These guidelines also assist in defining standards of prevention and care in these countries. In conclusion, we hope that these updated practical guidelines continue to serve as a reference document to aid healthcare providers in reducing the global burden of diabetes‐related foot disease.
Increasing complexity of opsin expression across stomatopod development
Authors: Palecanda Sitara , Steck Mireille , Porter Megan L.
Published: May 2023

Stomatopods are well studied for their unique visual systems, which can consist of up to 16 different photoreceptor types and 33 opsin proteins expressed in the adults of some species. The light‐sensing abilities of larval stomatopods are comparatively less well understood with limited information about the opsin repertoire of these early‐life stages. Early work has suggested that larval stomatopods may not possess the extensive light detection abilities found in their adult counterparts. However, recent studies have shown that these larvae may have more complex photosensory systems than previously thought. To examine this idea at the molecular level, we characterized the expression of putative light‐absorbing opsins across developmental stages, from embryo to adult, in the stomatopod species Pullosquilla thomassini using transcriptomic methods with a special focus on ecological and physiological transition periods. Opsin expression during the transition from the larval to the adult stage was further characterized in the species Gonodactylaceus falcatus. Opsin transcripts from short, middle, and long wavelength‐sensitive clades were found in both species, and analysis of spectral tuning sites suggested differences in absorbance within these clades. This is the first study to document the changes in opsin repertoire across development in stomatopods, providing novel evidence for light detection across the visual spectrum in larvae.
Long‐term opioid treatment and endocrine measures in chronic non‐cancer pain patients
Authors: Diasso Pernille D. K. , Abou‐Kassem Dalia , Nielsen Susanne D. , Main Katharina M. , Sjøgren Per , Kurita Geana P.
Published: May 2023

Background

The prevalence of chronic non‐cancer pain (CNCP) has increased dramatically the past decades, which combined with indiscriminate use of prescribed opioids has become a public health problem. Endocrine dysfunction may be a complication of long‐term opioid treatment (L‐TOT), but the evidence is limited. This study aimed at investigating the associations between L‐TOT and endocrine measures in CNCP patients.

Methods

Cortisol (spot and after stimulation), thyrotropin (TSH), thyroxin (T4), insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1), prolactin (PRL), 17‐hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS), sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG), total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone (fT) were measured. Group comparisons were done between CNCP patients in L‐TOT and controls as well as between patients on high‐ or low‐dose morphine equivalents.

Results

Eighty‐two CNCP patients (38 in L‐TOT and 44 controls not receiving opioids) were included. Low TT (p = 0.004) and fT concentrations (p < 0.001), high SHBG (p = 0.042), low DEAS (p = 0.017) and low IGF‐1 (p = 0.003) in men were found when comparing those in L‐TOT to controls and high PRL (p = 0.018), low IGF‐1 standard deviation score (SDS) (p = 0.006) along with a lesser, but normal cortisol response to stimulation (p = 0.016; p = 0.012) were found when comparing L‐TOT to controls. Finally, a correlation between low IGF‐1 levels and high opioid dose was observed (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study not only supports previous findings but even more interestingly disclosed new associations. We recommend future studies to investigate endocrine effects of opioids in larger, longitudinal studies. In the meanwhile, we recommend monitoring endocrine function in CNCP patients when prescribing L‐TOT.

Significance

This clinical study found associations between L‐TOT, androgens, growth hormone and prolactin in patients with CNCP compared to controls. The results support previous studies as well as add new knowledge to the field, including an association between high opioid dose and low growth hormone levels. Compared to existing research this study has strict inclusion/exclusion criteria, a fixed time period for blood sample collection, and adjustments for potential confounders, which has not been done before.
Dye adsorbed few‐layer thick Ti3C2Tx‐MXenes for direct electrochemical detection of CD44 proteins
Authors: Jawaid Sana , Hussain Tumrani Sadam , Nafady Ayman , Sirajuddin  , Karakuş Selcan , Tabish Mohammad , Ahmed Nazeer
Published: May 2023

The direct electrochemical detection of cancer biomarkers using single single‐component platforms is challenging. Herein, we propose constructing an efficient screen‐printed electrode (SPE) based platform for selective detection of CD44 proteins, a non‐kinase transmembrane glycoprotein. A sensing platform, MB‐MX/HA/SPE, was developed by incorporating few‐layered Ti3C2Tx nanosheets pre‐loaded with methylene blue (MB) dye. The nanosheets were subsequently immobilized with hyaluronic acid (HA), which served as a ligand for the specific recognition of CD44. The simple electrode configuration and the highly conductive Ti3C2Tx facilitated the electrochemical oxidation of MB, generating a reference SWV signal that declined proportionally with the increasing concentration of CD44 owing to ligand (HA)‐protein interaction. The sensor could register a sensitive inhibition response in the concentration range of 0.1 to 7.25 ng.mL−1 with a detection limit of 1.2×10−2 ng.mL−1 for CD44 proteins. Moreover, the synergistic combination of the highly conductive/adsorptive Ti3C2Tx nanosheets and hyaluronic acid (HA) led to strong antifouling characteristics even in the presence of other common proteins, such as bovine serum albumin (BSA), haemoglobin (Ig), immunoglobulin G (IgG), prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), and neuron‐specific enolase (NSE). The proposed strategy eliminates the need for additional components in the electrode modification procedure. In addition, incorporating MXenes as electrode material paves the way for developing sensitive biosensors with prospective applications in cancer diagnosis.
Hyper contour cryptography with master Birch‐Brown Paruvala‐SLSTM model for enhanced healthcare security
Authors: Angelin P. Blessed , Franklin S. Wilfred
Published: May 2023

Blockchain is a reliable ledger database that may be used to store various private healthcare data, but uploading and sharing data is difficult due to privacy concerns. Hence, to overcome these issues, a novel HCCLO with master Birch‐Brown Paruvala‐SLSTM model has been proposed to store various patients' medical data and shield it from threats. Hyper Contour Cryptography with Lepidoptera Optimization (HCCLO) has been proposed in this model, which encrypts data to reduce unwanted time stamp creation and prevent private key theft. Also, the Master Birch‐Brown‐Parulava NN design is introduced to prevent a false identity that leads to a data breach, and it allows for private exchange and enhances framework reconciliation, acting as an immune response to information breaks in the chain and preventing data breaches from spreading further. Then, the SLSTM layer implant RF Classifier is introduced to categorize data as user requests and attacks, safeguarding the blocks against changeability caused by malware attacks. The proposed approach offers minimal block mine time, maximum accuracy, and healthcare data security.
Protective effects of Althaea officinalis L. extract against N‐diethylnitrosamine‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma in male Wistar rats through antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, mitochondrial apoptosis and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways
Authors: Wang Zhenqian , Jiang Xiao , Zhang Long , Chen Han
Published: May 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the fourth cause of death due to cancer and includes 90% of liver tumors. Therefore, in this study, it was tried to show that Althaea officinalis L. flower extract (ALOF) can protect hepatocytes against N‐diethylnitrosamine (DEN)‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma. Totally, 70 Wistar rats were divided into seven groups (n = 10/group) of sham, DEN, treatment with silymarin (SIL; DEN + SIL), treatment with ALOF (DEN + 250 and 500 ALOF), and cotreatment with SIL and ALOF (DEN + SIL + 250 and 500 ALOF). At the end of the study, the serum levels of liver indices (albumin, total protein, bilirubin, C‐reactive protein, ALT, AST, and ALP), inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐1β, IL‐10, and TNF‐α), and oxidants parameters (glutathione peroxidase [GPx], superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT] activity along with nitric oxide [NO] levels) were evaluated. The level of Bax, Bcl‐2, Caspase‐3, p53, PI3K, mTOR, and AKT genes were measured. ALOF in cotreatment with SIL was able to regulate liver biochemical parameters, improve serum antioxidant indices, and decrease the level of proinflammatory cytokines significantly (p < .05). ALOF extract in both doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg in cotreatment with SIL caused a significant (p < .05) decrease in the p53‐positive cells and a significant (p < .05) increase in Bcl‐2‐positive cells. Therefore, ALOF was able to modulate the proliferation of cancer cells and protect normal cells through the regulation of Bax/Bcl‐2/p53 and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. It seems that ALOF can be used as a prodrug or complementary treatment in the protection of hepatocytes in induced damages caused by carcinogens.
Stock market liberalisation and acquisition outcomes: Evidence from a natural experiment
Authors: Lin Yanyan , Hou Xipei
Published: May 2023

Taking the Shanghai/Shenzhen‐Hong Kong stock connect policy as a natural experiment, we use a difference‐in‐differences approach to investigate how stock market liberalisation affects M&A outcomes. Employing a sample of Chinese listed firms from 2011 to 2020, we find that the stock market liberalisation leads to more positive M&A announcement returns. The positive effect on M&A announcement returns is the result of increased investor sentiment after market liberalisation. It is the investor sentiment mechanism through which stock market liberalisation has effects on M&A short‐term returns. Further analysis indicates that stock market liberalisation does not impose positive effects on long‐term M&A outcomes. We do not find evidence that M&As initiated by connected firms to be more value‐added.
Reducing urinary tract infection in female pelvic surgery: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mann Gurkiran K. , Koenig Nicole A. , Lee Terry , Geoffrion Roxana
Published: May 2023

Objective

To compare prebundle versus postbundle implementation urinary tract infection (UTI) rates among inpatients within 6 weeks of clean‐contaminated pelvic reconstructive surgery.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective cohort study from September 2019 to December 2021 at a tertiary hospital. The bundle strategy included the following: universal preoperative UTI check with treatment if positive, replacing prolonged postoperative voiding trials on the ward with earlier discharge and indwelling catheter removal by a nurse continence advisor the next day, and daily cranberry extract for 6 weeks postoperatively. UTI was defined as positive urine culture (≥100 000 colony‐forming unit per mL) in a symptomatic patient. Data analysis involved hypothesis testing and logistic regression.

Results

The authors reviewed 132 postbundle inpatient charts and retained 93 for analyses. The results were compared with 204 prebundle inpatient charts. The rate of postoperative UTI decreased from 17.6% in the prebundle group to 6.5% after bundle implementation (P = 0.01). The adjusted odds ratio for postbundle versus prebundle likelihood of UTI was 0.35 (95% confidence interval, 0.13–0.98; P = 0.045). Significantly more postbundle patients compared with prebundle patients were discharged home on the first day postoperatively (76.3% vs. 37.7%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A clinical bundle can significantly decrease both UTI rates and hospital stay after pelvic reconstructive surgery.
Coaxial microbial electrolysis cell for cost‐effective bioenergy production and wastewater treatment of potato industry effluent
Authors: Muddasar Muhammad , Liaquat Rabia , Rahman Muhammad Zia Ur , Khoja Asif Hussain , Aslam Ayesha , Basit Abdul
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The increase in energy and water demand due to industrialization and urbanization requires prioritized solutions for a sustainable future. Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) have shown huge potential for biohydrogen production along with wastewater treatment. This study examined the effectiveness of employing nickel foam as an anode material for biohydrogen production from the widely available potato industry effluent.

RESULTS

Hydrogen production rate increases exponentially with the increase in applied voltage. A maximum hydrogen production rate of 0.69 ± 0.02 m3H2 m−3reactor volume d−1was achieved at 0.9 V with a maximum chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency of 97% at 0.8 V. The effluent of the 0.8 V cycle had the least salinity, low total dissolved solids, 84% reduced total hardness, highest effluent clarity (4.30 NTU, and negligible quantity of heavy metals.

CONCLUSION

This study successfully produced biohydrogen from potato wastewater within 5 days of operation along with wastewater treatment of the substrate. The improved performance of the system can be attributed to the unique characteristics of nickel foam, such as high porosity, large surface area and excellent conductivity. The findings of this study have implications for the sustainable treatment of domestic and agro‐industrial wastewater and the development of efficient and low‐cost bio‐electrochemical systems for renewable energy production. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Homologous recombination repair gene‐based risk model predicts prognosis and immune microenvironment for primary lung cancer after previous malignancies
Authors: Wang Haoran , Gong Fangxiao , Kong Weicheng , Chen Yanyan , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2023

Background

Homologous recombination repair (HRR) plays an important role in cancer development, drug resistance, and immune escape, but the role of HRR genes in primary lung cancer (PLC) after previous malignancies is unclear.

Methods

We used HRR‐related score constrcted by HRR genes to classify patients into two groups and compared clinical progression, differential genes, and their functions between them. Then, we constructed a prognostic risk model based on HRR‐related score and screened key differentially expressed genes. We evaluated the potential roles, mutational information, and immune correlations of key genes. Finally, we compared the long‐term prognosis and immune correlations of different prognostic risk subgroups.

Results

We found that HRR‐related score was associated with T‐stage, immunotherapy sensitivity, and prognosis of PLC after previous malignancies. Differential genes between HRR‐related low‐score and high‐score groups are mainly involved in DNA replication and repair processes, such as the cell cycle. We identified three key genes, ABO, SERPINE2, and MYC, by machine learning, and MYC had the highest amplification mutation frequency. We verified that the key gene‐based prognostic model can better assess the prognosis of patients. The risk score of the prognostic model was associated with immune microenvironment and efficacy of immunotherapy.

Conclusions

Overall, we identified three key genes ABO, SERPINE2, and MYC associated with HRR status in PLC after previous malignancies. The risk model based on key genes is associated with immune microenvironment and can well predict the prognosis for PLC after previous malignancies.
HTLV‐1 cell‐free DNA in plasma as a potential biomarker in HTLV‐1 carriers and adult T‐cell leukemia‐lymphoma
Authors: Katsuya Hiroo , Nakamura Hideaki , Maeda Aya , Ishii Keitaro , Nagaie Toshiaki , Sano Haruhiko , Sano Haruna , Itamura Hidekazu , Okamoto Sho , Ando Toshihiko , Watanabe Toshiki , Uchimaru Kaoru , Satou Yorifumi , Sueoka Eisaburo , Kimura Shinya
Published: May 2023

Viral cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) in plasma has been widely evaluated for detecting cancer and monitoring disease in virus‐associated tumors. We investigated whether the amount of cfDNA of human T‐cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) correlates with disease state in adult T‐cell leukemia‐lymphoma (ATL). HTLV‐1 cfDNA in aggressive ATL was significantly higher than that in indolent ATL and asymptomatic carriers. Notably, patients with lymphoma type represented higher HTLV‐1 cfDNA amount than chronic and smoldering subtypes, though they had no abnormal lymphocytes in the peripheral blood. HTLV‐1 cfDNA can be a universal biomarker that reflects the expansion of ATL clones.