bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Separation and identification of different therapeutic pharmaceutical drugs on humic acid‐based HPLC column: Method optimization using central composite design
Authors: Ayyildiz Hamide Filiz , Memon Fakhar N. , Mangi Irfan Ali , Kara Huseyin
Published: May 2023

Multimode chromatographic separations are highly desirable in pharmaceutical and environmental sciences. Current study deals with the application of newly developed mixed‐mode end capped‐immobilized humic acid onto an aminopropyl silica based chromatographic column for separation and identification of six drugs belonging to different therapeutic groups for its applicability in pharmaceutical industries. For this, central composite design was used to evaluate the separation and resolution by optimization of three most effective parameters (acetonitrile%, flow rate, and pH of mobile phase). Second‐order quadratic model was used to evaluate their effect on resolution of peaks; the probability value (<0.05) obtained from analysis of variance suggested the best applicability of the model. Desirability function was applied to calculate optimum conditions (44.8% acetonitrile, 1.75 mL/min of flow rate, and 7.5 pH) required to achieve maximum separation with good resolution within 11 min. The method was validated for linearity, precision accuracy, selectivity, and sensitivity. The results revealed a highly precise (coefficient of variance > 1%), linear (R2 = 0.99), and highly selective method. Moreover, the limit of detection/quantification values revealed acceptable sensitivity of the method. The developed column was compared for its efficiency with a commercially available column and found to be highly applicable for industrial applications.
Outcomes of Short‐Term Surgical Trips in Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery: A Scoping Review
Authors: Wiedermann Josh , Douse Dontre' M. , Green Katerina J. , Pang Jonathan C. , Blount Quinton , Yu Karina , Shrime Mark
Published: May 2023

Objective

This scoping review aims to explore the current body of literature to characterize how short‐term surgical trips (STSTs) in Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery (OtoHNS) contribute to surgical, educational, and sustainability‐based outcomes in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). We aim to use these data to synthesize aspects of STSTs that are successful with the hopes of shaping future global efforts.

Data Sources

Data sources included Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus.

Review Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted on several databases from inception to October 14, 2021. We included primary studies exploring any surgical or educational outcomes of global short‐term surgical endeavors within LMICs. Data were then extracted to evaluate the heterogenous body of literature that exists, characterizing the surgical, educational, and sustainability‐based outcomes.

Results

Forty‐Seven studies were included in the final analysis. Most publications were focused on surgical interventions (39 of 47; 82.9%); 13 (27.7%) studies included education as the primary aim and 12 (25.5%) considered sustainability a significant aim. Of the 94 first and last authors, there were zero first authors and only one last author with an LMIC affiliation. Twenty‐six studies (55%) mentioned that any patients were seen in follow‐up, ranging from one day to five years.

Conclusion

Our scoping review demonstrates that most STSTs have focused primarily on surgical procedures with a lack of appropriate long‐term follow‐up. However, the available outcome‐based information presented helps identify factors that characterize a strong short‐term global surgical program.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:32–39, 2024
Depth of Invasion in Carcinoma Tongue: Evaluation of Clinical and Imaging Techniques
Authors: Kumar Rajeev , Sherif Mohammad Ponneth , Manchanda Smita , Barwad Adarsh , Sagar Prem , Khan Maroof Ahmad , Bhalla Ashu Seith , Singh Chirom Amit , Kumar Rakesh
Published: May 2023

Background

“Depth of invasion” is an additional index incorporated in 8th AJCC staging system for oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma based on its prognostic significance. Pre‐operative assessment by clinical palpation and imaging modalities has been used with limitations. The aim of the study is to compare different techniques including clinical palpation, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging with histopathology for assessment of depth of tumor invasion.

Materials

Fifty patients of carcinoma tongue (T1–T3) were enrolled. Clinical palpation, Ultrasound tongue, and Magnetic resonance imaging were used to assess depth of tumor invasion. Microscopic depth of invasion was considered as reference. Statistical analysis was done to assess the level of agreement, reliability, and internal consistency. ROC analysis was done to find the “Area Under Curve” for microscopic depth versus ultrasound, MRI, and gross histopathological “depth of invasion”.

Results

Ultrasound tongue showed highest “area under curve”, Intra class correlation (ICC:0.786) with a good consistency (Cronbach's Alpha:0.880) with histological reference compared to MRI(ICC:0.689;CA:0.816). Clinical palpation showed weak agreement (Kappa:0.43) for assessing depth. To observe the concordance between ultrasound and microscopic depth, Lin's Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC = 0.782) was calculated with 95% limits of agreement. Lin's concordance correlation between ultrasound and microscopic depth showed a good agreement.

Conclusions

Ultrasound tongue is a reliable imaging modality for pre‐operative T staging by assessing tumor “depth of invasion” in carcinoma tongue patients with good internal consistency as per 8th AJCC staging system.

Level of Evidence

2 (CEBM‐Level of Evidence‐2.1) Laryngoscope, 134:215–221, 2024
Opening research data contributes to the citations of related research articles: Evidence from Data in Brief
Authors: Fu Jiangyang , Tian Liang , Zhang Chengzhi , Li Jiang
Published: May 2023

This paper explores the effect of publishing a data paper in the Open Access journal Data in Brief (DIB) on the citation counts of the related research paper. Using regression analysis, citation content analysis and a survey method, we investigate whether research papers with a related data paper have higher citation counts and the potential reasons. After controlling variables that correlate with the citation counts, research papers with a related data paper were found to have higher citation counts than those published in the same issue of the same journal. Next, we explored the causal relationship between the two variables by surveying the corresponding authors of 618 papers who shared datasets in DIB from 2014 to 2021. The results show that the authors acknowledge the benefits of sharing data in DIB, including citation increase and career reputation enhancement. We further explored how the data papers in DIB increase the citations of the related research papers by using citation content analysis. We found that scientists co‐cite the data papers and their related research papers for the purpose of reusing the underlying data or portraying a better understanding of the underlying data and related research articles.
Experimental nutrient enrichment of forest streams reduces ecosystem nitrogen and phosphorus storage
Authors: Bumpers Phillip M. , Rosemond Amy D. , Manning David W. P. , Kominoski John S. , Benstead Jonathan P. , Demi Lee M.
Published: May 2023

Streams store nutrients in standing stocks of organic matter (OM) and associated biologically sequestered elements. Unlike standing stocks of autotrophs, detritus is depleted by nutrient enrichment, potentially reducing areal storage of detritus‐associated nutrients. To test effects of nutrient‐loading on storage of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) by autotrophic and detrital‐pool compartments, we quantified the effects of 2 yr of continuous experimental N and P additions on fine benthic organic matter (FBOM), leaves, wood, and biofilms in five forest streams. Our design tested the relative strength of N vs. P on OM nutrient content, areal OM storage, and areal nutrient storage in OM types. Enrichment increased nutrient content of all OM types; %P increased more than %N in leaves, wood, and biofilms, but not FBOM. Biofilm %P and %N increased more than in all detrital types. Areal FBOM and leaf storage declined with nutrient enrichment. Biofilm standing stocks were generally higher with enrichment but were not related to the streamwater N and P gradients. Despite increased OM nutrient content, total areal nutrient storage in leaves and wood decreased due to reduced OM storage. Although annual nutrient storage was stabilized by FBOM, seasonal variation in nutrient storage increased with enrichment. Leaf‐associated nutrient storage was reduced in most seasons, whereas FBOM and biofilm nutrient storage increased in winter and spring, respectively, relative to pretreatment. Overall, the combined responses of all OM types to enrichment resulted in reduced storage and altered seasonal availability of carbon and nutrients, which has implications for consumers and downstream processes.
Reconstructing missing data by comparing interpolation techniques: Applications for long‐term water quality data
Authors: Larson Danelle M. , Bungula Wako , Lee Amber , Stockdill Alaina , McKean Casey , Miller Frederick "Forrest" , Davis Killian , Erickson Richard A. , Hlavacek Enrika
Published: May 2023

Missing data are typical yet must be addressed for proper inferences or expanding datasets to guide our limnological understanding and management of aquatic systems. Interpolation methods (i.e., estimating missing values using known values within the dataset) can alleviate data gaps and common problems. We compared seven popular interpolation methods for predicting substantial missingness in a long‐term water quality dataset from the Upper Mississippi River, U.S.A. The dataset included 80,000 sampling sites collected over 30 yr that had substantial missingness for total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and water velocity. For all three interpolated water quality variables, random forests had very high prediction accuracy and outperformed the methods of ordinary kriging, polynomial regressions, regression trees, and inverse distance weighting. TP had a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.03 mg (L‐TP)−1, TN had a MAE of 0.39 mg (L‐TN)−1, and water velocity had a MAE of 0.10 m s−1. The random forests' error rates were mapped and showed low spatiotemporal variability across the riverscape, indicating high model performance across many habitat types and large spatial scales. In the current era of “big data,” interpolation becomes an imperative step prior to ecological analyses yet remains unfamiliar and underutilized. Our research briefly describes the importance of addressing missingness and provides a roadmap to conduct model intercomparisons of other big datasets. We also share adaptable data analysis scripts, which allows others to readily conduct interpolation comparisons for many limnology applications and contexts.
Regular dynamics of stochastic nondissipative retarded Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equations
Authors: Zhang Qiangheng
Published: May 2023

The theme of this paper is to study the long‐term behavior of stochastic nondissipative Kuramoto–Sivashinsky (KS) equations with time‐dependent force and abstract delays. We first introduce an odd function to overcome the nondissipation of this equation. We then use the spectrum decomposition technique to prove the existence and regularity of a unique pullback random attractor (PRA), and establish the measurability, forward compactness, and long‐time stability of PRAs in the regular space. Finally, we consider the upper semicontinuity of PRAs in the regular space from nonautonomy to autonomy. Moreover, we provide three concrete examples for the general delay term.
Potentiated effects of lactate receptor GPR81 on immune microenvironment in breast cancer
Authors: Guo Shenchao , Zhou Jianliang , Lou Pengrong , Weng Lijuan , Ye Xiaoxian , Guo Jianxin , Liu Huan , Ma Ruishuang
Published: May 2023

G protein‐coupled receptor (GPR81), as lactate receptor, is an upstart in immune regulation, however, its mechanisms involved in tumor escape have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we explored the effects of GPR81 activation on triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and macrophages. The expression and relationship with immune infiltration of GPR81 were analyzed with TCGA database. Checkpoints and cytokines were evaluated with flow cytometry or ELISA. The TCGA‐based data showed a marked decrease of GPR81 in breast cancer (BRCA) compared with normal breast, especially in the basal‐like subtype. In normal mammary tissues, GPR81 had negative correlation with various immune checkpoints, nevertheless, this trend weakened accompanied with the reduction of GPR81. GPR81 stimulation had a significantly inhibitory influence on PD‐L1 exposure in BT‐549 and MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines, but not in MDA‐MB‐453 cell line. The pretreatment of siGPR81 to knockdown GPR81 expression resulted in a remitting of PD‐L1 reduction when MDA‐MB‐231 cells were treated with GPR81 agonist 1. However, little effect of GPR81 activation was observed on the expression of PD‐L1 on phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13‐acetate (PMA)‐induced THP‐1 cells. Furthermore, GPR81 agonist 1 exerted no significant impact on the secretion of cytokines in THP‐1 cells. In general, it is suggested that GPR81 may facilitate immune monitoring via the reduction of PD‐L1 in TNBC with glycolytic phenotype. Our results not only provide a novel insight into the effects of GPR81 on immune evasion but a potential therapy targeting GPR81 in BRCA.
Phenotypic Variability in Acquired and Idiopathic Dystonia
Authors: Defazio Giovanni , Gigante Angelo Fabio , Erro Roberto , Belvisi Daniele , Esposito Marcello , Trinchillo Assunta , De Joanna Gabriella , Ceravolo Roberto , Mazzucchi Sonia , Unti Elisa , Barone Paolo , Scannapieco Sara , Cotelli Maria Sofia , Turla Marinella , Bianchi Marta , Bertolasi Laura , Pisani Antonio , Valentino Francesca , Altavista Maria Concetta , Moschella Vincenzo , Girlanda Paolo , Terranova Carmen , Bono Francesco , Spano Giorgio , Fabbrini Giovanni , Ferrazzano Gina , Albanese Alberto , Castagna Anna , Cassano Daniela , Coletti Moja Mario , Pellicciari Roberta , Bentivoglio Anna Rita , Eleopra Roberto , Cossu Giovanni , Ercoli Tommaso , Mascia Marcello Mario , Di Biasio Francesca , Misceo Salvatore , Magistrelli Luca , Romano Marcello , Scaglione Cesa Lorella Maria , Tinazzi Michele , Maderna Luca , Zibetti Maurizio , Berardelli Alfredo
Published: May 2023

Background

To date, a few studies have systematically investigated differences in the clinical spectrum between acquired and idiopathic dystonias.

Objectives

To compare demographic data and clinical features in patients with adult‐onset acquired and idiopathic dystonias.

Methods

Patients were identified from among those included in the Italian Dystonia Registry, a multicenter Italian dataset of patients with adult‐onset dystonia. Study population included 116 patients with adult‐onset acquired dystonia and 651 patients with isolated adult‐onset idiopathic dystonia.

Results

Comparison of acquired and idiopathic dystonia revealed differences in the body distribution of dystonia, with oromandibular dystonia, limb and trunk dystonia being more frequent in patients with acquired dystonia. The acquired dystonia group was also characterized by lower age at dystonia onset, greater tendency to spread, lower frequency of head tremor, sensory trick and eye symptoms, and similar frequency of neck pain associated with CD and family history of dystonia/tremor.

Conclusions

The clinical phenomenology of dystonia may differ between acquired and idiopathic dystonia, particularly with regard to the body localization of dystonia and the tendency to spread. This dissimilarity raises the possibility of pathophysiological differences between etiologic categories.
Using item response theory to develop a shortened practice environment scale of the nursing work index
Authors: Montgomery Aoyjai P. , Campbell Caitlin M. , Azuero Andres , Swiger Pauline A. , Patrician Patricia A.
Published: May 2023

The 31‐item Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index (PES‐NWI) has been frequently used globally to measure the nurse work environment. However, due to its length and subsequent respondent burden, a more parsimonious version of the PES‐NWI may be desirable. Item response theory (IRT) is a statistical technique that assists in decreasing the number of items in an instrument without sacrificing reliability and validity. Two separate samples of nurses in the United States (one called the “internal data source” and the other called “external data source”; sample sizes = 843 and 722, respectively) were analyzed. The internal data source was randomly split into training (n = 531) and validating data sets (n = 312), while a separate whole external data source was used as the final validating data set. Using IRT with training data, we removed nine items; two additional items were removed based on recommendations from a previous study. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the validity of the measurement model with the 20‐item of PES‐NWI in both internal and external validation data sources. The correlations among subscales between 31‐ and 20‐item versions were high magnitude for five subscales in both validation data sets (τ = 0.84–0.89). Ultimately, we identified a 20‐item version of the PES‐NWI which demonstrated adequate validity and reliability properties while decreasing data collection burden yet maintaining a similar factor structure to the original instrument. Additional research may be necessary to update the items themselves on the PES‐NWI.
Uncovering the Mechanism of Azepino‐Indole Skeleton Formation via Pictet–Spengler Reaction by Strictosidine Synthase: A Quantum Chemical Investigation
Authors: Mou Mingqi , Zhang Chenghua , Zhang Shiqing , Chen Fuqiang , Su Hao , Sheng Xiang
Published: May 2023

Strictosidine synthase (STR) catalyzes the Pictet–Spengler (PS) reaction of tryptamine and secologanin to produce strictosidine. Recent studies demonstrated that the enzyme can also catalyze the reaction of non‐natural substrates to form new alkaloid skeletons. For example, the PS condensation of 1H‐indole‐4‐ethanamine with secologanin could be promoted by the STR from Rauvolfia serpentina (RsSTR) to generate a rare class of skeletons with a seven‐membered ring, namely azepino‐[3,4,5‐cd]‐indoles, which are precursors for the synthesis of new compounds displaying antimalarial activity. In the present study, the detailed reaction mechanism of RsSTR‐catalyzed formation of the rare seven‐membered azepino‐indole skeleton through the PS reaction was revealed at the atomic level by quantum chemical calculations. The structures of the transition states and intermediates involved in the reaction pathway were optimized, and the energetics of the complete reaction were analyzed. Based on our calculation results, the most likely pathway of the enzyme‐catalyzed reaction was determined, and the rate‐determining step of the reaction was clarified. The mechanistic details obtained in the present study are important in understanding the promiscuous activity of RsSTR in the formation of the rare azepino‐indole skeleton molecule and are also helpful in designing STR enzymes for the synthesis of other new alkaloid skeleton molecules.
Healthcare utilization and cost barriers among U.S. childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Nghiem Van T. , Alanaeme Chibuike J. , Mennemeyer Stephen T. , Wong F. Lennie
Published: May 2023

Background

To evaluate healthcare utilization and cost barrier patterns among childhood cancer survivors (CCS) compared with noncancer controls.

Procedure

Using the 2014‐2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, we identified CCS < 50 years and matched controls. We used chi‐squared tests to compare characteristics between the two groups. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess the likelihood of having a checkup, receiving influenza vaccine, and experiencing healthcare cost barriers (being unable to see the doctor due to cost) during the past 12 months. Conditional models accounted for the matching.

Results

We included 231 CCS and 692 controls. CCS had lower household income (p < 0.001), lower educational attainment (p = 0.021), more chronic health conditions (p < 0.001), and a higher proportion of being current smokers (p = 0.005) than controls. Both groups had similar rates of having a checkup and influenza vaccine; however, a quarter of CCS experienced healthcare cost barriers compared with 13.9% in controls (p = 0.001; regression findings: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.72, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.11‐2.65). Compared with the youngest CCS group (18‐24 years), CCS ages 25‐29 years were five times more likely to experience healthcare cost barriers (aOR = 4.79; 95% CI, 1.39‐16.54). Among CCS, current smokers were less likely to have a checkup (aOR = 0.46; 95% CI, 0.23‐0.94). Uninsured CCS were less likely to have a checkup (aOR = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.14‐0.75) and ∼8 times more likely to experience healthcare cost barriers (aOR = 8.28; 95% CI, 3.45‐19.88).

Conclusion

CCS being 25‐29 years, uninsured, or current smokers encounter inferior outcomes in healthcare utilization and cost barriers. We suggest emphasis on programs on care transition and smoking cessation for CCS.
The effect of alternating the sequence of variable‐energy repeated impact on the residual strength and damage evolution of composite laminates
Authors: Saeedifar Milad , Saleh Mohamed Nasr
Published: May 2023

This article investigates the effect of alternating the sequence of variable‐energy repeated low‐velocity impact on the residual strength of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates. Quasi‐isotropic CFRP specimens were impacted using three impact energy levels, that is, Low (L), Medium (M), and High (H). Every group, out of three groups in total, was impacted consecutively using one of three sequences: LMH, HML, and MLH. Delamination and its growth after each impact was quantified using a phased‐array ultrasonic probe. The impacted specimens were then subjected to compression after impact loading with in situ acoustic emission (AE) and digital image correlation (DIC) measurement. Mechanical results showed that the residual strength of the specimens was not significantly affected by alternating the impacts sequence. However, the AE, sentry function and DIC results revealed that the impact‐induced damage in HML configuration was activated much earlier than MLH, and the damage induced in LMH configuration was activated later than both.
Identifying patients with diabetes in a day‐case systemic anti‐cancer therapy population: the Belfast Regional Oncology Centre experience
Authors: Waterworth Adam , Hamilton Ashleigh , Johnston Philip , Todd Anna , Connolly Grainne , Nugent Ailish , Scullin Paula , McKenna Sarah , Lawless Sarah , Wallace Helen , Wallace Ian
Published: May 2023

Patients undergoing systemic anti‐cancer treatment (SACT) often receive short courses of high dose steroids which may cause hyperglycaemia and potentially impact negatively on clinical outcomes. In this study we aimed to ascertain the prevalence of diabetes in a day‐case SACT cohort and secondly to compare practical methods of identifying patients with diabetes in a busy oncology service.

We performed two prospective snapshots of all patients attending for day‐case SACT at the Regional Oncology Centre, Belfast, over two separate week‐long periods. In the first snapshot we evaluated laboratory random serum glucose concentration. Data from 221 patients identified 14 patients with elevated random serum glucose (≥11.1mmol/L). In the second snapshot we added a patient questionnaire asking if the patient had diabetes alongside laboratory random serum glucose concentrations. We obtained 242 completed questionnaires from a potential of 299 (81% response rate) patients; 54 (22%) had known diabetes. By laboratory data, only 17 of 242 (7%) had a random serum glucose concentration ≥11.1mmol/L. All 17 would have been identified by asking the patient if they had diabetes. Diabetes is common in this cohort (22%). In a busy oncology clinic, the most effective way to identify patients with diabetes is to ask them first if they have diabetes.

This study is timely given the recent publication of Joint British Diabetes Societies and United Kingdom Chemotherapy Board guidance to improve the glycaemic control of patients with cancer. Earlier diagnosis and subsequent intervention to improve glycaemic control have the potential to improve clinical outcomes. Copyright © 2023 John Wiley & Sons.
Adding psychology to the diabetes service ‘new patient’ pathway: an evaluation
Authors: Heath Jennifer
Published: May 2023

Promotion of psychology as an integrated aspect of the diabetes team has been encouraged, with the aims of: reducing stigma felt by service users accessing this aspect of the multidisciplinary team, allowing for a biopsychosocial overview of patient care, and timely advising on appropriate signposting and onwards referral where necessary. To this end, a new care pathway was trialled, with psychology appointments offered as the third step in a new nurse‐ and dietitian‐led clinic structure.

For a five‐month trial period, all new patients (newly diagnosed or new to the service, n=30) were allocated a 30‐minute‐long remote psychology assessment appointment. The attendance rate was 66.7% and comparable with traditional opt‐in psychology appointments. Attendance at psychology appointments was not influenced by diabetes type; however, patients were more likely to attend if they were female or of British ethnicity.

The trial suggested that psychology appointments can be integrated into the preliminary assessment and annual review system without the need for specific referral. Such assessments can offer space for patients to reflect on their experience of living with diabetes and the identification of any psychosocial support needs, enabling timely information sharing and referral for support within and beyond the multidisciplinary team. Further evaluation is necessary to ascertain whether integrated psychological assessments in the usual care pathway can promote better awareness of, and engagement with, psychology while patients are under the care of the diabetes team. Copyright © 2023 John Wiley & Sons.
Investigating the association of school type and gender with adolescent's mindsets
Authors: Kim Jung Hoon , Kwon Jongkyum , Ryoo Ji Hoon
Published: May 2023

Mindset is a key factor affecting personality and learning for adolescents, especially those living in countries focusing heavily on human resources, such as Korea, Singapore, and Hong Kong. We examined associations of fixed intelligence mindset, fixed creative mindset, students' gender and school type via a structural equation modeling. The sample included 301 Korean adolescents: students in their second year at a gifted high school, general high school students, and vocational high school students. To confirm construct validity and examine the associations of gender and school type with both fixed intelligent and creative mindsets, we fit a two‐factor model within the structural equation model. We found significant associations of school type and gender with students' fixed intelligence mindset and fixed creative mindset. Three paths—gender → fixed intelligence mindset, school type → fixed intelligence mindset, and school type → fixed creative mindset—were significant. In Western countries where mindset research originated and developed, there have already been efforts to manage students' mindsets with policies. However, Asian countries still lack understanding of and basic research on mindset management. Therefore, these countries should pay closer attention to policies regarding students' mindset management. Simultaneously, a practical school‐level program is required to address the associations of school type and gender with student's mindsets revealed through this study.
The effect of student race/ethnicity on the diagnostic accuracy of the Social, Academic, and Emotional Behavior Risk Screener (SAEBRS)
Authors: Eklund Katie , Kilgus Stephen P. , Barber Alexandra , Dubose Kortni , Collins Bri'Anna , Eikenmeyer Madison
Published: May 2023

Universal screening has emerged as one strategy within schools for identifying students who demonstrate social emotional and behavioral (SEB) concerns to provide appropriate support. However, research has demonstrated little evidence of equity around diagnostic accuracy; that is, how students might be differentially identified as at‐risk for SEB concerns based on race/ethnicity. The current study examined the diagnostic accuracy of the Social, Academic, and Emotional Behavior Risk Screener (SAEBRS) teacher screening measure as affected by student race/ethnicity, drawing from a sample of 730 students and 54 teachers from four urban, Midwestern elementary schools. Data were analyzed using nonparametric receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses, as well as ROC regression tests incorporating student race/ethnicity status as a covariate. Results indicated the SAEBRS (1) demonstrated borderline to optimal sensitivity and specificity across student racial/ethnic subgroups in predicting student SEB risk status, and (2) diagnostic accuracy did not vary across racial/ethnic subgroups to a statistically significant degree. Results highlight the need for further research on this topic.
Fucoidan derived from Sargassum pallidum alleviates metabolism disorders associated with improvement of cardiac injury and oxidative stress in diabetic mice
Authors: Lin Zhiyong , Wang Fengwei , Yan Yawei , Jin Jiabao , Quan Zijiao , Tong Haibin , Du Jie
Published: May 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications have become a serious global health epidemic. Cardiovascular complications have considered as a major cause of high mortality in diabetic patients. Fucoidans from brown algae have diverse medicinal activities, however, few studies reported pharmacological activity of Sargassum. pallidum fucoidan (Sp‐Fuc). Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Sp‐Fuc on diabetic symptoms and cardiac injury in spontaneous diabetic db/db mice. SP‐Fuc at 200 mg/(kg/d) was administered intragastrically to db/db mice for 8 weeks, the effects on hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and cardiac damage, as well as oxidative stress, inflammation, Nrf2/ARE, and NF‐κB signaling pathways, were investigated. Our data demonstrated that Sp‐Fuc significantly (p < 0.05) decreased body weights, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia in db/db mice, along with improved insulin sensitivity. Additionally, Sp‐Fuc significantly (p < 0.05) alleviated cardiac dysfunction and pathological morphology of cardiac tissue. Sp‐Fuc also significantly (p < 0.05) decreased lipid peroxidation, increased antioxidant function, as well as reduced cardiac inflammation, possibly through Nrf2/ARE and NF‐κB signaling. Sp‐Fuc can ameliorate the metabolism disorders of glucose and lipid in diabetic mice by activating Nrf2/ARE antioxidant signaling, simultaneously reducing cardiac redox imbalance and inflammatory damage. The present findings provide a perspective on the therapy strategy for T2DM and its complications.
DSC‐based finite‐time adaptive resilient control for a class of nonstrict‐feedback switched nonlinear systems with deception attacks
Authors: Xie Jing , Yan Shiyu , Yang Dong
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the finite‐time adaptive resilient control problem for a class of switched nonlinear systems with deception attacks by using the dynamic surface control (DSC) strategy is addressed. A more general class of uncertain nonstrict‐feedback switched nonlinear systems with the sensor and actuator deception attacks are considered. Deception attacks can damage sensor, control and switching data, which results in the switching signal and the finite‐time control gains unknown, meanwhile the conventional dynamic surface errors inacessible. To overcome the difficulty, first, the approximation technique of neural networks (NNs) is used to deal with the unknown nonlinear terms and compensate the sensor and actuator deception attacks. Secondly, a new coordinate transformation and a novel switched adaptive finite‐time filter are designed to mitigate the effects caused by the sensor attacks and avoid the problem of “explosion of complexity”. Thirdly, Nussbaum technology is exploited to handle the unknown finite‐time control gains problem caused by deception attacks. Then, by the proposed control strategy, the practical finite‐time stability analysis is presented. Finally, a simulation example is provided to validate the feasibility of the proposed control method.
Molecular Dynamics and Free Energy Landscape Study of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron Mpro Boswellic acid Compounds of Boswellia Serrata Inhibitors
Authors: Sandhya K. S. , Arunkumar B. , Shiny L. P. , Nair Achuthsankar S.
Published: June 2023

This work sheds light on the effect of boswellic acid compounds (Alpha boswellic acid, Beta boswellic acid, 11‐keto beta boswellic acid and 3‐Acetyl‐11‐keto beta boswellic acid) upon inhibiting SARS‐CoV‐2 Mpro and O‐Mpro (Main protease). A good docking score (−8.4 kcal/mol) is found in the case of 3‐Acetyl‐11‐keto beta boswellic acid as compared to the reference and three other boswellic acid compounds. ADMET results suggest that all these compounds are nontoxic and their pharmacokinetic properties are satisfactory. Moreover, a stability analysis with Mpro/O‐Mpro through RMSD, RMSF, hydrogen bonds and Rg parameters in MD simulations is made and we found better values than the reference case. Pre and post‐MD structures of Ligands‐Mpro show a similar binding site whereas a drift can be noted for L‐O‐Mpro. 3‐Acetyl‐11‐keto beta boswellic acid shows an average of five hydrogen bonds and it remains stable within the binding pocket of Mpro during the simulation period in comparison to other boswellic acids compounds. Various metastable conformations are observed for all compounds in FEL (free energy landscape), however, Acyclovir‐Mpro, Alpha boswellic acid‐Mpro and Beta boswellic acid‐O‐Mpro display only one global minimum. The results suggest that these compounds can be used as potential lead molecules for breakthroughs in drug discovery.
A Conformal Protective Skin Producing Stable Cathode‐Electrolyte Interface for Long‐Life Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Huang Yan , Zhang Xinyuan , Chen Nan , Tian Ruiyuan , Zeng Yi , Du Fei
Published: June 2023

The development of K‐based layered oxide cathodes is essential for boosting the competitiveness of potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) in grid‐scale energy storage. However, their service life is dramatically limited by interfacial instability issues, which is still poorly understood. In this work, amorphous FePO4 (a‐FP) is built on K0.5Ni0.1Mn0.9O2 (KNMO) as the protective skin, whose elasticity for strain relaxation and the K‐conducting nature guarantee its integrity during fast and constant K‐ion insertion/extraction. The conformal coating leads to a robust interphase on the cathode surface, which qualifies excellent K‐transport ability and significantly suppresses the mechanical cracking and transition metal dissolution. Breakthrough in cycle life of the K‐based layered cathodes is therefore achieved, which of the amorphous FePO4 coated K0.5Ni0.1Mn0.9O2 (KNMO@a‐FP) reaches 2500 cycles. The insights gained from the surface protection layer construction and the in‐depth analysis of its working mechanism pave the way for further development of K‐based layered cathodes with both bulk structural and interfacial stability.
Combining Structural Modification and Electrolyte Regulation to Enable Long‐Term Cyclic Stability of MoO3‐x@TiO2 as Cathode for Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Huang Wenjie , Wang Hui , Hu Renzong , Liu Jun , Yang Lichun , Zhu Min
Published: June 2023

Orthorhombic MoO3 (α‐MoO3) with multivalent redox couple of Mo6+/Mo4+ and layered structure is a promising cathode for rechargeable aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (AZIBs). However, pure α‐MoO3 suffers rapid capacity decay due to the serious dissolution and structural collapse. Meanwhile, the growth of byproduct and dendrite on the anode also lead to the deterioration of cyclic stability. This article establishes the mechanism of proton intercalation into MoO3 and proposes a joint strategy combining structural modification with electrolyte regulation to enhance the cyclic stability of MoO3 without sacrificing the capacity. In ZnSO4 electrolyte with Al2(SO4)3 additive, TiO2 coated oxygen‐deficient α‐MoO3 (MoO3‐x@TiO2) delivers a reversible capacity of 93.2 mA h g−1 at 30 A g−1 after 5000 cycles. The TiO2 coating together with the oxygen deficiency avoids structural damage while facilitating proton diffusion. Besides, the additive of Al2(SO4)3, acting as a pump, continuously supplements protons through dynamic hydrolysis, avoiding the formation of Zn4SO4(OH)6·xH2O byproducts at both MoO3‐x@TiO2 and Zn anode. In addition, Al2(SO4)3 additive facilitates uniform deposition of Zn owing to the tip‐blocking effect of Al3+ ion. The study demonstrates that the joint strategy is beneficial for both cathode and anode, which may shed some light on the development of AZIBs.
Tela‐choroidea‐to‐anterior‐cerebral‐artery distance (TACAD): novel marker on color Doppler to identify fetuses with complete or partial agenesis of corpus callosum
Authors: Karl K. , Chaoui R.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To assess objectively the course of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) by measuring its distance to the tela choroidea in the midsagittal view, and to compare this distance in normal fetuses with that in those with agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC), a condition known to be associated with an abnormal course of the ACA.

Methods

The tela‐choroidea‐to‐anterior‐cerebral‐artery distance (TACAD) was measured in the midsagittal view of the brain on color Doppler, between the anterior border of the tela choroidea and the ACA at the level of the callosal genu. Reference ranges in relation to gestational age were established in a prospective, cross‐sectional study of 253 normal healthy fetuses between 19 and 36 weeks of gestation. The study group included fetuses with complete ACC (n = 28) or partial ACC (n = 18).

Results

TACAD of normal fetuses showed an increase during the second half of pregnancy, with a mean value of 10.1 mm and 14.2 mm at 22 and 30 weeks of gestation, respectively. All (28/28) fetuses with complete ACC and 83% (15/18) of those with partial ACC had significantly shorter TACAD, with mean values of 3.9 mm and 6.6 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

TACAD is a measurement that is simple to obtain during fetal color Doppler neurosonography, which enables quantification of the course of the ACA and pericallosal artery. TACAD is shorter in fetuses with complete or partial ACC than in normal fetuses and provides an objective, quantifiable value, rather than merely descriptive information. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Almost-Instantaneous PPP-RTK Without Atmospheric Corrections
Authors: Brack Andreas , Männel Benjamin , Schuh Harald
Published: May 2023

Ambiguity resolution enabled precise point positioning (PPP-RTK) can provide fast, potentially even instantaneous, centimeter-level positioning results, given that the phase ambiguities are correctly resolved. Without external ionospheric corrections, a time-to-first-fix the ambiguities of around 30 min is often reported for GPS-only solutions. In this contribution we investigate the capabilities of almost-instantaneous PPP-RTK without any a-priori ionospheric information. The key aspects are the mean square error-optimal best integer-equivariant estimator, a multi-GNSS solution using GPS, Galileo, BDS, and QZSS, and a proper weighting of the satellite clock and bias corrections with their inverse covariance matrix in order to obtain realistic observation models. Real data experiments with dual-frequency observations show that centimeter-level horizontal positioning errors are reached within one and two epochs in 87.6% and 99.7% of the cases, thereby demonstrating that almost-instantaneous PPP-RTK without atmospheric corrections is indeed possible with the current constellations.
Introduction: Before E-Cigarettes—The Pre-history of Public Health, Tobacco and Nicotine in the UK, Australia and the US
Authors: Berridge Virginia , Fairchild Amy L. , Morphett Kylie , Gartner Coral , Hall Wayne , Bayer Ronald
Published: May 2023

The comparative study arose from our curiosity about why policies towards e-cigarettes were so different in the UK and Australia, two countries with a shared public health history. The US was added as a case study to see how its unique history of tobacco activism and anti-tobacco activism prefigured and influenced its e-cigarette policy. We outline the history of tobacco policy in the context of public health in each country, showing that a major change occurred after World War II, when tobacco became a key issue of public health concern. All the countries developed stances hostile to tobacco smoking and to the tobacco industry, but differences in the way this was done helped to inform their policies towards e-cigarettes, which cover a spectrum of tolerance. An important source of divergence between the three countries was a history of policy in the UK favouring a harm reduction approach to nicotine. In the US and Australia, while nicotine was used as individual therapy, it was in pursuit of a cession-only strategy.
The Development of E-cigarette Policy in Australia: The Policy, How It Came About and How It Is Justified
Authors: Morphett Kylie , Hall Wayne , Gartner Coral
Published: May 2023

Australia has banned the sale of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes as consumer goods. Australian policy allows their use on prescription, but it has been very difficult for Australian smokers to legally access them for smoking cessation. Regulatory changes introduced in October 2021 may allow smokers’ easier access to these products via a medical prescription, but Australian policy still differs markedly from that of other high-income English-speaking countries where e-cigarettes can be legally purchased as consumer goods (e.g. UK, US, Canada and New Zealand). This chapter discusses the history of Australian regulatory approaches to e-cigarettes. It begins by describing how Australian tobacco control policies influenced policy on e-cigarettes and then outlines the rationale that regulators and health organisations have used for the policy. We then discuss the factors that played a crucial role in producing an e-cigarette policy in Australia which is so starkly different from that in UK, Australia’s original colonial power and a major model for other Australian public health policies.
Communication Climate
Authors: Kvalnes Øyvind
Published: May 2023

Every organisation or group has a communication climate. It manifests in the way members talk to each other in work settings. This chapter positions the concept in relation to those of voice climate and psychological safety and defines it in a way that is wider than both in that it encompasses the climate for voicing concerns and critical issues as well as the climate for expressing support, praise, and appreciation. The chapter also introduces the structure of the book, which has 15 chapters organised in three parts. Part 1 (Chaps. 1–6) addresses why the communication climate is important in organisations. Part 2 (Chaps. 7–11) presents five qualities found in well-functioning communication climates. Part 3 (Chaps. 12–14) highlights communication ethics. The book ends with a chapter containing suggestions for further academic work on the topic.
Further Studies
Authors: Kvalnes Øyvind
Published: May 2023

Researchers and those studying communication climate can seek out narratives from working life. Collecting and interpreting such narratives can provide a better understanding of what constitutes a well-functioning communication climate, and what it takes to establish and maintain it. This final chapter provides suggestions for further investigation of critical quality moments, friendly friction, psychological safety, and other concepts from the book. Rich and vivid narratives from organisational life are the empirical gold that can help us study and understand the communication climate. Interviews and conversations are a primary data source. The interviewer needs to guide the interviewee beyond generalisations and probe for details about unfolding events. Reflections that begin as narratives can generate ideas for small-scale improvements in how people communicate and collaborate at work.
Theoretischer und empirischer Hintergrund
Authors: Becker-Hingst Nadine
Published: May 2023

Die Lebenserwartung in Deutschland ist im Verlauf der letzten Jahrzehnte gestiegen. Im Jahr 2014 betrug der Anteil der Personen über 60 Jahre 27 % an der Gesamtbevölkerung. Schätzungsweise wird der Anteil im Jahr 2030 auf 35 % und im Jahr 2050 auf 38 % ansteigen.
Ergebnisse
Authors: Becker-Hingst Nadine
Published: May 2023

Der Ergebnisteil ist analog zur Struktur der Fragestellungen und Hypothesen gegliedert. Die Hypothesentests wurden entsprechend der in Abschnitt 3.6 aufgeführten Reihenfolge beschrieben. In Abschnitt 5.1 wird der Zusammenhang zwischen Emotionsregulationskompetenz, spezifischen Emotionsregulationsstrategien und verschiedenen Affektvariablen (positiver & negativer Affekt, Depression und Wohlbefinden) in der Allgemeinbevölkerung (Gruppe 2) untersucht.
MR-based follow-up after brachytherapy and proton beam therapy in uveal melanoma
Authors: Tang Michael C. Y. , Ferreira Teresa A. , Marinkovic Marina , Jaarsma-Coes Myriam G. , Klaassen Lisa , Vu T. H. Khanh , Creutzberg Carien L. , Rodrigues Myra F. , Horeweg Nanda , Klaver Yvonne L. B. , Rasch Coen R. N. , Luyten Gre P. M. , Beenakker Jan-Willem M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

MRI is increasingly used in the diagnosis and therapy planning of uveal melanoma (UM). In this prospective cohort study, we assessed the radiological characteristics, in terms of anatomical and functional imaging, of UM after ruthenium-106 plaque brachytherapy or proton beam therapy (PBT) and compared them to conventional ultrasound.

Methods

Twenty-six UM patients were evaluated before and 3, 6 and 12 months after brachytherapy (n = 13) or PBT (n = 13). Tumour prominences were compared between ultrasound and MRI. On diffusion-weighted imaging, the apparent diffusion value (ADC), and on perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI), the time-intensity curves (TIC), relative peak intensity and outflow percentages were determined. Values were compared between treatments and with baseline.

Results

Pre-treatment prominences were comparable between MRI and ultrasound (mean absolute difference 0.51 mm, p = 0.46), but larger differences were observed post-treatment (e.g. 3 months: 0.9 mm (p = 0.02)). Pre-treatment PWI metrics were comparable between treatment groups. After treatment, brachytherapy patients showed favourable changes on PWI (e.g. 67% outflow reduction at 3 months, p < 0.01). After PBT, significant perfusion changes were observed at a later timepoint (e.g. 38% outflow reduction at 6 months, p = 0.01). No consistent ADC changes were observed after either treatment, e.g. a 0.11 × 10−3mm2/s increase 12 months after treatment (p = 0.15).

Conclusion

MR-based follow-up is valuable for PBT-treated patients as favourable perfusion changes, including a reduction in outflow, can be detected before a reduction in size is apparent on ultrasound. For brachytherapy, a follow-up MRI is of less value as already 3 months post-treatment a significant size reduction can be measured on ultrasound.