bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exomeres and supermeres: Monolithic or diverse?
Authors: Tosar Juan Pablo , Cayota Alfonso , Witwer Kenneth
Published: June 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, are far from being the only RNA‐containing extracellular particles (EPs). Recently, new 35‐nm‐sized EPs were discovered by asymmetric‐flow field‐flow fractionation and termed ‘exomeres’. Purification of exomeres was later performed by differential ultracentrifugation as well. More recently, the supernatant of the high‐speed ultracentrifugation used to collect exomeres was further centrifuged to collect a new class of EP, termed ‘supermeres’. Supermeres contain high quantities of extracellular RNA and are enriched in miR‐1246. They are also replete in disease biomarkers and can induce metabolic and adaptive changes in recipient cells. Here, we reanalysed proteomic and transcriptomic data obtained in this exciting study to obtain further insights into the molecular composition of exomeres and supermeres. We found that the top‐ranking RNAs in supermeres correspond to the footprints of extracellular protein complexes. These complexes protect fragments of the small nuclear RNA U2 and the 28S rRNA from extracellular ribonucleases (exRNases). We suggest that intracellular nanoparticles such as the U2 ribonucleoprotein, ribosomes and LGALS3BP ring‐like decamers are released into the extracellular space. These heterogeneous EPs might be further processed by exRNases and co‐isolate by ultracentrifugation with other components of exomeres and supermeres. We look forward to continuing progress in defining exRNA carriers, bridging process definitions with molecular composition and function.
Efficacy of intraductal placement of nonflared fully‐covered metal stent for refractory perihilar benign biliary strictures: A multicenter prospective study with long‐term observation
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuyuki , Kato Hironari , Fujii Masakuni , Ueki Toru , Saragai Yosuke , Tsugeno Hirofumi , Mannami Tomohiko , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: June 2022

Background

Endoscopic fully‐covered self‐expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs) are used to treat benign biliary strictures (BBSs); however, treatment for perihilar BBSs is technically challenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of an unflared FCSEMS designed for intraductal placement in patients with refractory perihilar BBS.

Methods

Twenty‐two consecutive patients with perihilar BBS unresolved by endoscopic plastic stent placement at 13 tertiary medical centers were prospectively enrolled. The FCSEMS was placed above the papilla and removed after 4 months. The primary outcome was stricture resolution at 4 months, and the secondary outcomes were technical success, stent removal, adverse events, and recurrence.

Results

The technical success rate of intraductal FCSEMS placement was 100%, and plastic stent placement at contralateral or side branch was performed in 86% of patients. The rate of successful stent removal at 4 months was 100%, and stricture resolution was observed in 91% of patients. Stent migration or stent‐induced de novo stricture did not occur in any patient. The stricture recurrence rate was 16%, and the median (interquartile range) follow‐up duration was 2.8 (1.6‐3.3) years.

Conclusions

Intraductal placement of unflared FCSEMS is effective treatment for refractory perihilar BBS.
Efficacy and safety of direct peroral cholangioscopy using a new multibending ultra‐slim endoscope for the management of biliary diseases
Authors: Lee Yun Nah , Moon Jong Ho , Lee Tae Hoon , Yoo Hae Won , Yang Jae Kook , Cha Sang‐Woo , Cho Young Deok , Park Sang‐Heum
Published: June 2022

Background/Purpose

Compared with currently available duodenoscopy‐assisted systems, direct peroral cholangioscopy (DPOC) using an ultra‐slim endoscope is limited by technical difficulties. The multibending (MB) ultra‐slim endoscope was introduced as a dedicated cholangioscope for DPOC to challenge the technical problem. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical utility of DPOC using an MB endoscope with free‐hand insertion into the bile duct in patients with biliary diseases.

Methods

A total of 145 patients who underwent DPOC using an MB endoscope were analyzed. The primary outcome was the technical success rate of DPOC using the free‐hand insertion of the MB endoscope. The secondary outcomes were the technical success rates of DPOC‐guided diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, the diagnostic accuracy of DPOC‐guided target biopsy, and adverse events related to DPOC.

Results

Free‐hand biliary insertion of a MB endoscope for DPOC was technically successful in 133 patients (91.7%). DPOC‐guided target biopsy was successful in 36 of 38 patients (94.7%) and had a diagnostic accuracy of 91.7% (95% confidence interval, 82.6‐100). Sixty‐nine therapeutic interventions were performed; technical success was achieved in 65 (94.2%). No severe adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

The MB ultra‐slim endoscope was technically effective to perform a DPOC including various diagnosis and therapeutic interventions without device assistance. MB endoscope is considered to contribute to expanding a role of DPOC in diagnosis and treatment of diverse biliary tract diseases.
IgM+ and IgM– memory B cells represent heterogeneous populations capable of producing class-switched antibodies and germinal center B cells upon rechallenge withP. yoelii
Authors: Brown Susie L , Bauer Jonathan J , Lee Juhyung , Ntirandekura Enatha , Stumhofer Jason S
Published: June 2022

Memory B cells (MBCs) are essential for maintaining long-term humoral immunity to infectious organisms, including Plasmodium. MBCs are a heterogeneous population whose function can be dictated by isotype or expression of particular surface proteins. Here, aided by antigen-specific B-cell tetramers, MBC populations were evaluated to discern their phenotype and function in response to infection with a nonlethal strain of P. yoelii. Infection of mice with P. yoelii 17X resulted in 2 predominant MBC populations: somatically hypermutated isotype-switched (IgM–) and IgM+ MBCs that coexpressed CD73 and CD80 that produced antigen-specific antibodies in response to secondary infection. Rechallenge experiments indicated that IgG-producing cells dominated the recall response over the induction of IgM-secreting cells, with both populations expanding with similar timing during the secondary response. Furthermore, using ZsGreen1 expression as a surrogate for activation-induced cytidine deaminase expression alongside CD73 and CD80 coexpression, ZsGreen1+CD73+CD80+IgM+, and IgM– MBCs gave rise to plasmablasts that secreted Ag-specific Abs after adoptive transfer and infection with P. yoelii. Moreover, ZsGreen1+CD73+CD80+ IgM+ and IgM– MBCs could differentiate into B cells with a germinal center phenotype after adoptive transfer. A third population of B cells (ZsGreen1–CD73–CD80–IgM–) that is apparent after infection responded poorly to reactivation in vitro and in vivo, indicating that these cells do not represent a canonical population of MBCs. Together these data indicated that MBC function is not defined by immunoglobulin isotype, nor does coexpression of key surface markers limit the potential fate of MBCs after recall.
An Ex‐vivo Model Examining Acoustics and Aerodynamic Effects Following Medialization With and Without Arytenoid Adduction
Authors: Maddox Alexandra , Oren Liran , Farbos de Luzan Charles , Howell Rebecca , Gutmark Ephraim , Khosla Sid
Published: June 2022

Objectives/Hypothesis

Quantify differences in acoustics and intraglottal flow fields between Thyroplasty Type 1 (TT1) with and without arytenoid adduction (AA) using excised canine larynx model.

Study Design

Basic science experiments using excised larynges.

Methods

Surgical procedures were implemented in eight excised canine larynges. Acoustics and intraglottal flow measurements were taken at low and high subglottal pressures in each experimental setup.

Results

In all larynges, vocal efficiency (VE) and cepstrum peak prominence (CPP) were higher, and the mean phonatory flow rate was lower in TT1 with AA than without AA. The glottal asymmetry is reduced with AA and promotes the formation of stronger vortices in the glottal flow during the closing phase of the vibrating folds.

Conclusions

Findings suggest a clear acoustic and aerodynamic benefit to the addition of AA when performing TT1. It shows significant improvement in CPP, translating to decreased breathiness and dysphonia and increased VE, leading to easier and more sustainable phonation. Stronger intraglottal vortices are known to be correlated with the loudness of voice produced by phonation.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 133:621–627, 2023
How and when Narcissism and faith in humanity drive sustainable consumption
Authors: Bowen Karen T. , Musarra Giuseppe , Ou Yi‐Chun
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study is to examine how and when narcissism and faith in humanity simultaneously influence product reuse. Despite its critical role in promoting sustainability, scholars have paid scant attention to product reuse as a reliable aspect of sustainable consumer behavior. Moreover, research on personality traits as drivers of sustainable consumption has mostly focused on the Big Five personality traits. We posit that the effects of consumers' narcissism and faith in humanity on product reuse are explained by social exclusion and are conditional on subjective norms. We test our hypotheses using two experiments and three cross‐sectional surveys. We find that while narcissism has a negative effect on product reuse, faith in humanity has a positive effect on product reuse. We also observe that social exclusion mediates the effects of narcissism and faith in humanity, and that subjective norms positively moderate the relationships between narcissism and product reuse. This study highlights the importance of product reuse as a key indicator of sustainable consumption and offers novel insights into the how and when consumers engage in product reuse.
Older adults' decisions on smart home systems: Better put an age tag on it!
Authors: Tipaldi Petra , Natter Martin
Published: June 2022

Addressing the demands of our aging society, technologies such as smart home systems enhance older adults' independence and enable them to live longer at home. Yet, older adults tend to avoid, delegate, or defer decisions, and smart home systems are rarely used by individuals over the age of 65. Drawing on research on choice overload and age labels, we investigate across four studies how the presentation of smart home systems can influence the decision‐making process of older adults ages 65+ by mitigating choice complexity and, consequently, choice avoidance. We argue that age‐framing of complex systems makes the choice options easier to process for older adults than does price‐framing, the current market standard. We find that age‐framing positively affects the rate of choice, and we identify reduced choice complexity as the underlying process. Our research further demonstrates that family members, as important co‐deciders, evaluate decisions made on age‐framed alternatives more positively, thus making it easier for older adults to justify their decisions. We thus contribute to research on the decision‐making of older adults in general and on age labels in particular, and we identify important practical implications for providers of high investment products for older adults.
Cernunnos defect in an Iranian patient with T− B+NK+ severe combined immunodeficiency: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Jamee Mahnaz , Khakbazan Fard Nasrin , Fallah Shahrzad , Golchehre Zahra , Fallahi Mazdak , Shamsian Bibi Shahin , Sharafian Samin , Chavoshzadeh Zahra
Published: June 2022

Background

Defective Cernunnos gene in nonhomologous end‐joining (NHEJ) pathway of the DNA repair is responsible for radiosensitive severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Herein, presented a new patient with Cernunnos deficiency and summarized the clinical, immunological, and molecular features of reported patients in the literature.

Case

The patient was a 6‐month‐old female born to consanguineous parents. She presented with long‐lasting fever, diarrhea, poor feeding, and restlessness. She had suffered from recurrent fever of unknown origin and multiple episodes of oral candidiasis. In the physical examination, microcephaly, failure to thrive, oral candidiasis, pustular rash on fingers, and perianal ulcers, but no dysmorphic feature were observed. The immunologic workup revealed lymphopenia, neutropenia, normocytic anemia, low T‐ but normal B‐ and natural killer (NK)‐ cells, low immunoglobulin (Ig)G, and normal IgA, IgM, and IgE. The T‐cell receptor excision circle (TREC) was low and the lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) was abnormal to mitogens and antigens. She was diagnosed with T− B+ NK+ SCID and improved by intravenous immunoglobulin along with antimicrobials. A homozygous splice site variant, c.390 + 1G > T, at the intron 3 of the NHEJ1, was identified and the diagnosis of Cernunnos deficiency was established. However, while a candidate for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, she developed sepsis and died at 11 months of age.

Conclusions

Cernunnos deficiency should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients with microcephaly, growth retardation, recurrent infections, T‐cell defects, and hypogammaglobulinemia. The normal B‐cell level in the index patient is an unexpected finding in Cernunnos deficiency which requires further evaluation.
Panel‐based next‐generation sequencing identifies novel mutations in Bulgarian patients with inherited retinal dystrophies
Authors: Kamenarova Kunka , Mihova Kalina , Veleva Nevyana , Mermeklieva Elena , Mihaylova Bilyana , Dimitrova Galina , Oscar Alexander , Shandurkov Iliyan , Cherninkova Sylvia , Kaneva Radka
Published: June 2022

Background

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based method is being used broadly for genetic testing especially for clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorders, such as inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) but still not routinely used for molecular diagnostics in Bulgaria. Consequently, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a molecular diagnostic approach, based on targeted NGS for the identification of the disease‐causing mutations in 16 Bulgarian patients with different IRDs.

Methods

We applied a customized NGS panel, including 125 genes associated with retinal and other eye diseases to the patients with hereditary retinopathies.

Results

Systematic filtering approach coupled with copy number variation analysis and segregation study lead to the identification of 16 pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants in 12/16 (75%) of IRD patients, 2 of which novel (12.5%): ABCA4‐c.668delA (p.K223Rfs18) and RР1‐c.2015dupA (p.K673Efs*25). Mutations in the ABCA4, PRPH2, USH2A, BEST1, RР1, CDHR1, and RHO genes were detected reaching a diagnostic yield between 42.9% for Retinitis pigmentosa cases and 100% for macular degeneration, Usher syndrome, and cone‐rod dystrophy patients.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the usefulness of targeted NGS approach based on frequently mutated genes as a comprehensive and successful genetic diagnostic tool for IRDs with significant impact on patients counseling.
Two novel AMHR2 gene variants in monozygotic twins with persistent Müllerian duct syndrome: A case report and functional study
Authors: Chen Hong , Lin Peng , Yuan Xin , Chen Ruimin
Published: June 2022

Background

Persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS) is an autosomal recessive congenital abnormality in which Müllerian derivatives, uterus, cervix, upper two‐thirds of the vagina, and fallopian tubes persist in otherwise normally virilized males. Mutations in anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) and AMH receptor type II (AMHR2) genes have been identified as causative. However, functional experimental analysis of AMHR2 or AMH variants that cause PMDS is still lacking.

Materials and Methods

A Chinese Han family affected by PMDS was identified. To assess the history and clinical manifestations of PMDS, physical, operational, ultrasonographical, pathological, and other examinations were performed on family members. The variant screening was conducted using trio whole‐exome sequencing (trio WES) and Sanger sequencing. Complementation‐based NanoLuciferase Binary Technology (NanoBiT) was used to examine the interaction between AMH and AMHR2 variants in vivo. The effect of the two variants on the transcriptional activity of the TGFβ/BMP pathway was evaluated using a luciferase assay.

Results

Classic phenotypic manifestations of PMDS in a pair of identical twins were described and confirmed by genetic sequence analysis. Molecular studies revealed two novel variants c.118G > C [p.(Gly40Arg)], c.1222G > C [p.(Ala408Pro)] in the AMHR2 gene. The AMHR2 p.Gly40Arg variant reduces its ability to bind to AMH, while the p.Ala408Pro variant alters the kinase domain structure. Both variants significantly reduce TGFβ/BMP signaling.

Conclusion

Two missense AMHR2 variants associated with PMDS were identified. These findings provide novel insights toward better clinical evaluation and further understanding of the molecular basis of PMDS.
C, X, and Ku three‐band tunable metamaterial absorber based on varactor diodes
Authors: Li Zihan , Jiang Yannan , Liang Yulin , Tian Shuo , Chen Mingsong
Published: June 2022

A three‐band tunable polarization‐insensitive metamaterial absorber is proposed in this paper. The unit cell of the absorber is composed of a dielectric substrate, a metal patch, and four varactor diodes welded on the top layer. A simple metal via bias network is designed to facilitate the absorption frequency tuning of the absorber. The simulation results show that when there is no bias voltage (0 V), the proposed absorber has three absorption peaks of 88%, 99.5%, and 99.8% under normal incidence at 7.27, 10.93, and 15.84 GHz, respectively. Furthermore, by adjusting the reverse bias voltage (0–19 V) of the varactor, the first absorption peak of the absorber can be tuned from 7.27 to 8.2 GHz and the second absorption peak tuned from 10.93 to 11.4 GHz. Meanwhile, the tuning range for the third absorption peak is 15.84–16.1 GHz. Furthermore, the three‐band absorption and frequency tunable characteristics of the absorber are confirmed by experimental tests.
Dual mode dielectric resonator filter with a new source coupling slot approach
Authors: Ekici Saim , Yazgan Erdem
Published: June 2022

In this study, a Ka‐band dual‐mode dielectric resonator filter is studied. As a new approach, to mount the dielectric resonator on the input coupling slot, a mechanical protrusion is designed. By use of this structure, controlled source coupling and excitation via waveguide can be allowed. Compared with coaxial cable excitation, waveguide excitation allows high power handling capacity and less insertion loss.
Efficient approach for modeling substrate integrated waveguides
Authors: Liu Yuanzhi , Mu Hongyu , Yagoub Mustapha C. E. , Bai Guo
Published: June 2022

In this letter, a highly accurate surrogate model of substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) is proposed. This model allows designers to design SIW structures more efficiently compared to existing complex and CPU‐intensive fine approaches. Based on the multivariate linear regression technique, an accurate equation linking the physical parameters of the proposed surrogate but simple model to the fine but complex model was obtained. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed modeling procedure were demonstrated through a practical design example.
Development of a novel 10‐echo multi‐contrast sequence based on EPIK to deliver simultaneous quantification of T2 and T2* with application to oxygen extraction fraction
Authors: Küppers Fabian , Yun Seong Dae , Shah N. Jon
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The simultaneous quantification of T2 and T2* maps based on fast sequences for combined GE and SE acquisition has rekindled research and clinical interest by offering a wide range of attractive applications, e.g., dynamic tracking of oxygen extraction fraction (OEF). However, previously published methods based on EPI‐readouts have been hindered by resolution and the number of acquired echoes.

Methods

This work presents a novel 10‐echo GE‐SE EPIK (EPI with keyhole) sequence for the rapid quantification of T2'. T2/T2* maps from the GE‐SE EPIK sequence were validated using three phantoms and 15 volunteers at 3T. The incorporation of a sliding window approach, combined with the full sampling of the k‐space center inherent to EPIK, enables a high effective temporal resolution. That is, for an eight‐slice breath‐hold experiment, a temporal sampling rate of eight reconstructed slices per 1.1 s.

Results

In comparison with repeated single‐echo SE, multi‐echo GE, and spectroscopy methods, the GE‐SE EPIK sequence shows good agreement in quantifying T2/T2* values, while the gray matter/white matter separation yielded the expected contrast differentiation. The OEF was calculated with a view to an initial application with clinical relevance, producing results comparable to those in the literature and with good sensitivity in breath‐hold experiments.

Conclusions

GE‐SE EPIK provides increased resolution and more echoes, including two SEs, than comparable sequences. Moreover, GE‐SE EPIK achieves this within an acquisition time of 57 s for 20 slices (matrix size = 128×128; FOV = 24 cm) and with a reasonably short TE for the final echo (114 ms). The sequence can dynamically track OEF changes in a breath‐hold experiment.
Multi‐phase‐field microporomechanics model for simulating ice‐lens growth in frozen soil
Authors: Suh Hyoung Suk , Sun WaiChing
Published: June 2022

This article presents a multi‐phase‐field poromechanics model that simulates the growth and thaw of ice lenses and the resultant frozen heave and thaw settlement in multi‐constituent frozen soils. The growth of segregated ice inside the freezing‐induced fracture is implicitly represented by the evolution of two‐phase fields that indicate the locations of segregated ice and the damaged zone, respectively. The evolution of two‐phase fields is induced by their own driving forces that capture the physical mechanisms of ice and crack growths, respectively, while the phase‐field governing equations are coupled with the balance laws such that the coupling among heat transfer, solid deformation, fluid diffusion, crack growth, and phase transition can be replicated numerically. Unlike phenomenological approaches that indirectly capture the freezing influence on the shear strength, the multiphase‐field model introduces an immersed approach where both the homogeneous freezing and the ice‐lens growth are distinctively captured by the freezing characteristic function and the driving force accordingly. Verification and validation examples are provided to demonstrate the capacities of the proposed models.
Estimating Monthly Poverty Rates in the United States
Authors: Parolin Zachary , Curran Megan , Matsudaira Jordan , Waldfogel Jane , Wimer Christopher
Published: June 2022

Official poverty estimates for the United States are presented annually, based on a family unit's annual resources, and reported with a considerable lag. This study introduces a framework to produce monthly estimates of the Supplemental Poverty Measure and official poverty measure, based on a family unit's monthly income, and with a two‐week lag. We argue that a shorter accounting period and more timely estimates of poverty better account for intra‐year income volatility and better inform the public of current economic conditions. Our framework uses two versions of the Current Population Survey to estimate monthly poverty while accounting for changes in policy, demographic composition, and labor market characteristics. Validation tests demonstrate that our monthly poverty estimates closely align with observed trends in the Survey of Income & Program Participation from 2004 to 2016 and trends in hardship during the COVID‐19 pandemic. We apply the framework to measure trends in monthly poverty from January 1994 through September 2021. Monthly poverty rates generally declined in the 1990s, increased throughout the 2000s, and declined after the Great Recession through the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Within‐year variation in monthly poverty rates, however, has generally increased. Among families with children, within‐year variation in monthly poverty rates is comparable to between‐year variation, largely due to the average family with children receiving 37 percent of its annual income transfers in a single month through one‐time tax credit payments. Moving forward, researchers can apply our framework to produce monthly poverty rates whenever more timely estimates are desired.
Nonpenetrating repeated impact effect to the damage behavior of prestressed glass/epoxy composite pipes
Authors: Kepir Yusuf , Gunoz Alper , Kara Memduh
Published: June 2022

Glass‐reinforced plastic (GRP) composite pipes, the use of which has been increasing rapidly in many areas in recent years, may be exposed to the impact of different objects during assembly, operation, repair, and maintenance. Since composite materials are sensitive to impacts, it is vital to examine damage to the material. In this study, the repeated impact response of GRP composite pipes under internal hydrostatic pressure was investigated. In order to simulate different operating conditions on the GRP samples, a prestress was created by applying 4, 16, and 32 bar internal hydrostatic pressure. Then, the prestressed pipes were subjected to low velocity repeated impact tests. As a result of repeated impact tests at low velocity, changes in maximum displacement amount, maximum contact force, energy absorption capacity, and impact velocity were evaluated depending on the number of impacts applied to the samples. The changes in the strength of the samples subjected to repeated impact tests at different internal pressure levels were determined by the hoop tensile tests performed according to the ASTM D2290 standard. As a result of the hoop tensile tests, the variation of the material's tangential tensile strength and damage behavior according to impacts' number and the prestress were investigated.
Fabrication of electroactive poly(γ‐glutamic acid) coating for improving corrosion resistance and cytocompatibility of magnesium alloy
Authors: Dai Miao , Li Siyuan , Cui Yan , Zhang Wei , Shi Hui , Pan Kai , Wei Wei , Liu Xiaoya , Li Xiaojie
Published: June 2022

Although magnesium (Mg) and its alloys are promising biodegradable materials for orthopedic implants, rapid and uncontrollable degradation of Mg is still a challenge for clinical applications. In this work, electroactive polymer coatings were prepared to improve the corrosion resistance and cytocompatibility of Mg alloys. Amphiphilic electroactive tetraaniline (TANi)‐conjugated poly(γ‐glutamic acid) (γ‐PGA) with various TANi modification rates (γ‐PGA–TANi10, γ‐PGA–TANi20, γ‐PGA–TANi27) were first synthesized. γ‐PGA–TANi colloidal particles, prepared by a self‐assembly method, were then coated on Mg alloys by electrophoretic deposition. The prepared γ‐PGA–TANi coatings showed a homogeneous surface and good adhesion on AZ31 Mg alloys. Electrochemical analysis and in vitro immersion tests revealed that γ‐PGA–TANi‐coated Mg exhibited superior corrosion resistance, which was mainly attributed to the electroactivity of the γ‐PGA–TANi coatings, leading to the rapid formation of a passivation layer to prevent the further corrosion of Mg alloys. Furthermore, the γ‐PGA–TANi alloy coatings efficiently regulated Mg2+ release and pH value of coated Mg alloy during immersion for 40 days. In comparison with bare Mg alloy, the coated Mg alloy also showed better cytocompatibility, where L929 cells emerged with a good cell adhesion and viability. These results indicate that electroactive γ‐PGA–TANi coatings have promising potential for corrosion resistance of Mg alloys. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Hygroscopic fluorine‐doped silicon oxide thin‐film‐based large‐area three‐layered moisture barrier using a roll‐to‐roll microwave plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition system
Authors: Lee Won Jae , Cho Tae‐Yeon , Eom Ji‐Ho , Park Jae‐Seong , Ryu Juwhan , Cho Seong‐Keun
Published: June 2022

In this study, we fabricated an optically transparent and flexible SiNx/SiOF/SiNx (NFN) moisture barrier film using a highly hygroscopic fluorine‐doped silicon oxide (SiOF) thin film and a low moisture permeable silicon nitride (SiNx) thin film. The NFN three‐layered moisture barrier with SiOF (SiF4/N2O gas ratio, R = 1) was deposited in an in‐situ process to eliminate contamination in the atmosphere between the SiNx and SiOF thin films. The NFN moisture barrier achieved a water‐vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of approximately 3.94 × 10−4 g m−2 day−1 at R = 1. Additionally, the NFN three‐layered thin film showed a very high visible light transmittance of approximately 93.32% that is can be used in optical applications like display, solar cells, and so on.
Clinical implications of homologous recombination repair mutations in prostate cancer
Authors: Cresta Morgado Pablo , Mateo Joaquin
Published: June 2022

Prostate cancer is a disease with significant interpatient genomics, with a proportion of patients presenting mutations in key homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene aberrations, particularly in late‐stage disease. A better understanding of the genomic landscape of prostate cancer and the prognostic and predictive value of HRR mutations could lead to more precise care for prostate cancer patients.BRCA1/2mutations are associated with a more aggressive disease course and higher risk of developing lethal prostate cancer, but also identify patients who could benefit from directed therapeutic strategies with PARP inhibitors. Other HRR mutations are also frequent but their prognostic and predictive value for prostate cancer patients is less clear. Moreover, a proportion of these mutations are associated with inherited germline defects, being relevant for the patients' risk of second malignancies but also to inform their relatives' risk of cancer through cascade testing. In this manuscript, we review current knowledge of the prognostic and predictive value for different HHR alterations across the different prostate cancer disease states. Additionally, we assess the challenges to implement genomic testing in clinical practice for prostate cancer patients.
Hybridization of ResNet with YOLO classifier for automated paddy leaf disease recognition: An optimized model
Authors: Ganesan Gangadevi , Chinnappan Jayakumar
Published: June 2022

Paddy is the most significant crop utilized by more than 2.6 billion people. The paddy crops are affected by various diseases that are unidentified and reduced the production of crop yield. Nowadays, the plants diseases and pests spread increasingly due to the climate change, trade, and globalization. The plant pathogens can be viral, fungal, nematodes or bacterial that affects all parts of the plants. The challenging tasks are to determine the symptoms and identify the controlling measures of the plant diseases. The plant leaves can be affected by numerous diseases, which results in destruction in terms of crop field to various social and economic aspects. The deep structured architectures and machine learning are implemented in the conventional models for detecting the leaf diseases. Hence, the main intention of this study is to develop the novel model for paddy leaf disease recognition using the hybrid deep learning. Initially, the input paddy leaf images are collected from standard sources that undergo filtering and contrast enhancement approaches. Further, the segmentation of the abnormal region of the paddy leaf is done by “adaptive K‐means clustering.” This is also accomplished by the Fitness Sorted‐Shark Smell Optimization (FS‐SSO). With the segmented images, the recognition of the disease is performed by the hybrid deep learning using the Resnet and YOLO classifier. As the modification, the fully connected layer of the ResNet model is replaced by the YOLO classifier for disease recognition. The significant parameters of the hybrid deep learning are optimized by the FS‐SSO for attaining the high recognition rate. Experimental analysis is performed for computing the performance metrics and the accuracy of the classification for evaluating the efficiency of the suggested method.
Ti3C2TX MXene Modified with ZnTCPP with Bacteria Capturing Capability and Enhanced Visible Light Photocatalytic Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Cheng Hao , Wang Jiameng , Yang Yongqiang , Shi Huixian , Shi Jing , Jiao Xiong , Han Peide , Yao Xiaohong , Chen Weiyi , Wei Xiaochun , Chu Paul K , Zhang Xiangyu
Published: June 2022

Light‐assisted antibacterial therapy is a promising alternative to antibiotic therapy due to the high antibacterial efficacy without bacterial resistance. Recent research has mainly focused on the use of near‐infrared light irradiation to kill bacteria by taking advantage of the synergistic effects rendered by hyperthermia and radical oxygen species. However, photocatalytic antibacterial therapy excited by visible light is more convenient and practical, especially for wounds. Herein, a visible light responsive organic‐inorganic hybrid of ZnTCPP/Ti3C2TX is designed and fabricated to treat bacterial infection with antibacterial efficiency of 99.86% and 99.92% within 10 min against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. The porphyrin‐metal complex, ZnTCPP, is assembled on the surface of Ti3C2TX MXene to capture bacteria electrostatically and the Schottky junction formed between Ti3C2TX and ZnTCPP promotes visible light utilization, accelerates charge separation, and enhances the mobility of photogenerated charges, and finally increases the photocatalytic activity. As a result of the excellent bacteria capturing ability and photocatalytic antibacterial effects, ZnTCPP/Ti3C2TX exposed to visible light has excellent antibacterial properties in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, organic‐inorganic materials that have been demonstrated to possess good biocompatibility and enhance wound healing have large potential in bio‐photocatalysis, antibacterial therapy, as well as antibiotics‐free treatment of wounds.
Three‐dimensional transvaginal ultrasound vs magnetic resonance imaging for preoperative staging of deep myometrial and cervical invasion in patients with endometrial cancer: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Spagnol G. , Noventa M. , Bonaldo G. , Marchetti M. , Vitagliano A. , Laganà A. S. , Cavallin F. , Scioscia M. , Saccardi C. , Tozzi R.
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To evaluate and compare the diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) of three‐dimensional transvaginal ultrasound (3D‐TVS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for deep myometrial infiltration (DMI) and cervical invasion for preoperative staging and surgery planning in patients with endometrial cancer (EC).

Methods

This systematic review and meta‐analysis investigated the DTA of MRI and 3D‐TVS for DMI and cervical invasion in patients with EC. A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, The Cochrane library,
ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EU Clinical Trials Register and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform to identify relevant studies published between January 2000 and December 2021. Study quality was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies‐2 (QUADAS‐2) tool.

Results

Five studies, including a total of 450 patients, were included in the systematic review. All five studies compared the DTA of 3D‐TVS vs MRI for DMI, and three studies compared the DTA of 3D‐TVS vs MRI for cervical invasion. Pooled sensitivity, positive likelihood ratio and negative likelihood ratio for detecting DMI using 3D‐TVS were 77% (95% CI, 66–85%), 4.57 and 0.31, respectively. The respective values for detecting DMI on MRI were 80% (95% CI, 73–86%), 4.22 and 0.24. Bivariate metaregression indicated a similar DTA of 3D‐TVS and MRI (P = 0.80) for the correct identification of DMI. Pooled ln diagnostic odds ratio for detecting cervical invasion was 3.11 (95% CI, 2.09–4.14) for 3D‐TVS and 2.36 (95% CI, 0.90–3.83) for MRI. The risk of bias was low for most of the four domains assessed in QUADAS‐2.

Conclusion

3D‐TVS demonstrated good diagnostic accuracy in terms of sensitivity and specificity for the evaluation of DMI and cervical invasion, with results comparable with those of MRI. Thus, we confirmed the potential role of 3D‐TVS in the preoperative staging and surgery planning in patients with EC. © 2022 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Owner demographic factors are associated with suitable pet rabbit housing provision in the United Kingdom
Authors: Mee Grace , Tipton Emma , Oxley James A. , Westgarth Carri
Published: June 2022

Background

Rabbits are popular pets, but research into their welfare is limited. This study analysed the potential association(s) between the provision of suitable housing and owner demographic factors.

Methods

Data from 2017, 2018 and 2019 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) report surveys gave a sample of 1333 UK rabbit owners. Whether the rabbit housing was adequate or inadequate was ascertained by asking owners to indicate images of hutch and run size or indoor environment type that were similar to their own. The owner demographic factors collected included gender, education, household income and deprivation. Chi‐squared tests and binary logistic regression (univariable and multivariable) were used to investigate factors associated with adequate/inadequate housing.

Results

One‐third (31.2%) of rabbits lived in inadequate housing and half were housed alone (51.4%). Male owners were more likely to report providing inadequate housing than females (odds ratio [OR] = 1.795, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.319–2.441, p < 0.001). Compared to owners over 55 years old, those aged 25–34 years were more likely to house their rabbits inadequately (OR = 2.050, 95% CI 1.286–3.267, p = 0.003). Owners with a household income below average were more likely to report providing inadequate housing compared to those with a household income above average (OR = 1.406, 95% CI 1.025–1.928, p = 0.035).

Conclusion

The findings identify that inadequate rabbit housing is provided by owners of all ages, genders and deprivation levels but highlight some particular owner demographics that could be useful to target if resources are limited.
Getting the public on side with gene editing
Authors: Loeb Josh
Published: June 2022

Legislation to move forwards on gene editing of crops and potentially livestock has been introduced in parliament, but what does the public think? Are people opposed to gene editing? Should the public have the final say? Can scientists win hearts and minds, and, if so, how? Josh Loeb investigates
Surveillance Focus; Causes of mortality in feral wild boar in the Forest of Dean
Authors: Man Cat , Williamson Susanna
Published: June 2022

This focus article has been prepared by Cat Man, veterinary lead of the APHA Wildlife Expert Group, and Susanna Williamson, veterinary lead of the APHA Pig Expert Group.
Philip Kirk Kilkenny
Authors: Hanlon Philip , Burke Rory
Published: June 2022

Universally liked, he was a caring, patient and knowledgeable vet with a passion for football. His sense of humour was matched by his sense of fun. He was a devoted family man.
‘What a great bunch of people animals have advocating for their welfare!’
Authors: Ritchie Eve
Published: June 2022

For the first time since 2019, the AWF Discussion Forum was held in person last month. Eve Ritchie from AWF looks back at some highlights of the event.
Marking the Queen's Platinum Jubilee
Authors: Ryan Mandy
Published: June 2022

BVA is fortunate to have the Queen as our royal patron. Mandy Ryan, BVA's head of media, outlines our plans for congratulating her and celebrating her 70‐year reign.
Committee vacancies 2022 – get involved
Authors: Findon Amelia
Published: June 2022

BVA policy and governance director Amelia Findon invites applications for BVA's latest round of committee vacancies.
My faith is the foundation to my life
Authors: Anderson Jonathan
Published: June 2022

Jonathan Anderson is one of four equine surgeons at Rainbow Equine Hospital in North Yorkshire. He is also one of the clinical directors responsible for running the business.
Locating Race in Migration and Diversity Studies
Authors: Aquino Kristine , Kathiravelu Laavanya , Mitchell Emma
Published: June 2022

Since race was scientifically invalidated in the aftermath of the Holocaust, there has been extensive academic debate about its conceptual significance particularly in the ‘Global North’ where alternative terms and concepts have been offered up to classify group differences and understand forms of inequality in societies once structured explicitly by racial regimes. In earlier debates, an alternative focus on ethnicity, culture, class, and nationality drew criticism from scholars who saw the abandonment of race discourse as glossing over enduring power structures that perpetuated racism. Today, debates about the salience of race now also grapple with how different kinds of human mobility (and immobility) are further making complex relations of power and inequality especially in diverse immigrant-receiving societies. While older forms of migration, including the forced and violent movements of people in the transatlantic slave trade through to indentured labour migrations, came to underlie a colour-line created by nation-states principally formed around racial logics, newer forms of South to North migrations either forced or voluntary and as well accelerated South to South border crossings, now make even more complex the terms of difference. This chapter locates conceptualisations of race in migration and diversity studies, drawing from intersecting fields of scholarship such as studies of race and ethnicity, critical race theory, comparative migration studies and diversity research. It traces the wider genealogical history of the term in the ‘Global North’ then discusses how race as a concept is applicable to the ‘Global South’ where existing understandings about race are reaffirmed and unsettled. This chapter demonstrates the continued importance of considering race not just as a variable, but a key discursive framework in understandings of migration and diversity.
The Governance of Migration-Related Diversity
Authors: Huddleston Thomas , Scholten Peter
Published: June 2022

The governance of migration-related diversity encompasses a broad range of topics, such as integration policies, anti-discrimination and anti-racism strategies, diversity policies, and various others. In this chapter we will limit ourselves to governance by government bodies (local, national, other) and focus explicitly on migration-related diversities (ethnic, cultural, religious, racial, other). We will discuss various theoretical models for the governance of migration-related diversity, but will also discuss empirical material on how and why governments choose very different perspectives and approaches, for instance either focusing on integration, or inclusion, or anti-discrimination, or not having an explicitly focused policy on migration-related diversities at all.
Public Opinion and the Politics of Migration
Authors: Dennison James , Vrânceanu Alina
Published: June 2022

Identifying and describing attitudes to immigration, let alone explaining them and their effects, is not a simple matter. In this chapter, we first outline the major scholarly works explaining attitudes to immigration. We identify six broad theoretical categories: economic interests, socialisation, psychological explanations, cueing, contact and context, and finally ’attitudinal embeddedness’. For each of these we present the key findings and consider the strengths and shortcomings of the literature, where applicable. We also sketch out existing research on the politics of immigration and the effects of attitudes to immigration on democratic politics, which we categorise as research on policy responsiveness, effects on party family support (notably the radical right), party competition, and polarisation. We end by considering future avenues for research.
Humanitarian Migration
Authors: Talleraas Cathrine , Brekke Jan-Paul , Buhr Franz
Published: June 2022

Humanitarian migration relates to the movement of people who feel somehow forced to move. Yet, distinguishing which migration forms fall under the label of humanitarian migration is not straightforward. Migration research has a history of separating between ‘forced’ and ‘voluntary’ migration flows, however, this distinction has been challenged since the 1990s. This chapter includes an overview of research in the broad area of ‘humanitarian migration’, and summarises key research trends concerning refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced people, victims of trafficking and unaccompanied migrant minors.
Transcription factor networks in trophoblast development
Authors: Papuchova Henrieta , Latos Paulina A.
Published: June 2022

The placenta sustains embryonic development and is critical for a successful pregnancy outcome. It provides the site of exchange between the mother and the embryo, has immunological functions and is a vital endocrine organ. To perform these diverse roles, the placenta comprises highly specialized trophoblast cell types, including syncytiotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast. The coordinated actions of transcription factors (TFs) regulate their emergence during development, subsequent specialization, and identity. These TFs integrate diverse signaling cues, form TF networks, associate with chromatin remodeling and modifying factors, and collectively determine the cell type-specific characteristics. Here, we summarize the general properties of TFs, provide an overview of TFs involved in the development and function of the human trophoblast, and address similarities and differences to their murine orthologs. In addition, we discuss how the recent establishment of human in vitro models combined with -omics approaches propel our knowledge and transform the human trophoblast field.
Analysis and validation of silica-immobilised BST polymerase in loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for malaria diagnosis
Authors: Seevaratnam Dushanth , Ansah Felix , Aniweh Yaw , Awandare Gordon A. , Hall Elizabeth A. H.
Published: June 2022

Bacillus stearothermophilus large fragment (BSTLF) DNA polymerase is reported, isolated on silica via a fused R5 silica-affinity peptide and used in nucleic acid diagnostics. mCherry (mCh), included in the fusion construct, was shown as an efficient fluorescent label to follow the workflow from gene to diagnostic. The R5 immobilisation on silica from cell lysate was consistent with cooperative R5-specific binding of R52-mCh-FL-BSTLF or R52-mCh-H10-BSTLF fusion proteins followed by non-specific protein binding (including E. coli native proteins). Higher R5-binding could be achieved in the presence of phosphate, but phosphate residue reduced loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) performance, possibly blocking sites on the BSTLF for binding of β- and γ-phosphates of the dNTPs. Quantitative assessment showed that cations (Mg2+ and Mn2+) that complex the PPi product optimised enzyme activity. In malaria testing, the limit of detection depended on Plasmodium species and primer set. For example, 1000 copies of P. knowlesi 18S rRNA could be detected with the P.KNO-LAU primer set with Si-R52-mCh-FL-BSTLF , but 10 copies of P. ovale 18S rRNA could be detected with the P.OVA-HAN primer set using the same enzyme. The Si-immobilised BSTLF outperformed the commercial enzyme for four of the nine Plasmodium LAMP primer sets tested. Si-R52-mCh-FL-BSTLF production was transferred from Cambridge to Accra and set up de novo for a trial with clinical samples. Different detection limits were found, targeting the mitochondrial DNA or the 18S rRNA gene for P. falciparum. The results are discussed in comparison with qPCR and sampling protocol and show that the Si-BSTLF polymerase can be optimised to meet the WHO recommended guidelines.

Graphical abstract