bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chinook salmon diversity contributes to fishery stability and trade‐offs with mixed‐stock harvest
Authors: Connors Brendan M. , Siegle Matthew R. , Harding Joel , Rossi Steven , Staton Benjamin A. , Jones Michael L. , Bradford Michael J. , Brown Randy , Bechtol Bill , Doherty Beau , Cox Sean , Sutherland Ben J. G.
Published: August 2022

Variation among populations in life history and intrinsic population characteristics (i.e., population diversity) helps maintain resilience to environmental change and dampen interannual variability in ecosystem services. As a result, ecological variation, and the processes that generate it, is considered central to strategies for managing risks to ecosystems in an increasingly variable and uncertain world. However, characterizing population diversity is difficult, particularly in large and remote regions, which often prevents its formal consideration in management advice. We combined genetic stock identification of archived scale and tissue samples with state‐space run‐reconstruction models to estimate migration timing and annual return abundance for eight geographically and genetically distinct Chinook salmon populations within the Canadian portion of the Yukon River. We found that among‐population variation in migration timing and return abundances resulted in aggregate return migrations that were 2.1 times longer and 1.4 times more stable than if they had composed a single homogeneous population. We then fit state‐space spawner–recruitment models to the annual return abundances to characterize among‐population diversity in intrinsic productivity and population size and their consequences for the fisheries they support. Productivity and carrying capacity varied among populations by approximately 2.4‐fold (2.9 to 6.9 recruits per spawner) and three‐fold (8800 to 27,000 spawners), respectively. This diversity implies an equilibrium trade‐off between harvesting of the population aggregate and the conservation of individual populations whereby the harvest rate predicted to maximize aggregate harvests comes at the cost of overfishing ~40% of the populations but with a relatively low risk of extirpating the weakest ones. Our findings illustrate how population diversity in one of the largest salmon‐producing river basins in the world contributes to fishery stability and food security in a region where salmon have high cultural and subsistence value. More generally, our work demonstrates the utility of molecular analyses of archived biological material for characterizing diversity in biological systems and its benefits and consequences for trade‐offs in decision‐making.
Multi‐surveyor capture‐mark‐recapture as a powerful tool for butterfly population monitoring in the pre‐imaginal stage
Authors: Hinneberg Heiko , Döring Jörg , Hermann Gabriel , Markl Gregor , Theobald Jennifer , Aust Ines , Bamann Thomas , Bertscheit Ralf , Budach Daniela , Niedermayer Jana , Rissi Alicia , Gottschalk Thomas K.
Published: August 2022

For many elusive insect species, which are difficult to cover by standard monitoring schemes, innovative survey methods are needed to gain robust data on abundance and population trends. We suggest a monitoring of overwintering larvae for the endangered nymphalid butterfly Limenitis reducta. We tested different removal and capture‐mark‐recapture (CMR) approaches in a field study in the “Alb‐Donau” region, Germany. Classical removal and CMR studies require movement of the organisms under study, but in our approach, we replaced movement of the study organisms by random movement of multiple different surveyors. We tested the validity of the approach by comparing detection frequencies from our field data with simulated detections. Our results indicate that multi‐surveyor removal/CMR techniques are suitable for estimating abundance of overwintering L. reducta larvae. Depending on surveyor experience, the average detection probability ranged between 16% for novices and 35% for experts. The uncertainty of population estimates increased with a decrease in personnel expenditure. Estimated larval densities on a spruce clear‐cut varied between one and three individuals per 100 m2, probably related to habitat conditions. We suggest a CMR approach with three to four trained surveyors for the monitoring of L. reducta populations in the overwintering stage. Compared with previous sampling methods, our approach is a powerful tool with clear advantages: long survey period, estimates of the absolute population size accompanied by uncertainty measures, and estimates of overwinter mortality. The proposed method can be adapted and used for several different butterfly species, other insect taxa with specific immobile life stages, and some sessile organisms, for example, elusive plants, fungi, or corals.
Extensive sharing of chloroplast haplotypes among East Asian Cerris oaks: The imprints of shared ancestral polymorphism and introgression
Authors: Li Yao , Wang Lu , Zhang Xingwang , Kang Hongzhang , Liu Chunjiang , Mao Lingfeng , Fang Yanming
Published: August 2022

Shared ancestral polymorphism and introgression are two main causes of chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) haplotype sharing among closely related angiosperms. In this study, we explored the roles of these two processes in shaping the phylogeographic patterns of East Asian Cerris oaks by examining the geographic distributions of randomly and locally distributed shared haplotypes, which coincide with the expectations of shared ancestry and introgression, respectively. We sequenced 1340 bp of non‐coding cpDNA from Quercus acutissima (n = 418) and Q. chenii (n = 183) and compiled previously published sequence data of Q. variabilis (n = 439). The phylogenetic relationships among haplotypes were examined using a median‐joining network. The geographic patterns of interspecifically shared haplotypes were assessed to test whether nearby populations have a higher degree of interspecific cpDNA sharing than distant ones. We identified a total of 27 haplotypes that were grouped into three non‐species‐specific lineages with overlapping distributions. Ancestral haplotypes were extensively shared and randomly distributed across populations of the three species. Some young haplotypes were locally shared in mountainous areas that may have been shared refugia. The local exchange of cpDNA resulted in an excess of similar haplotypes between nearby populations. Our study demonstrated that the haplotype sharing pattern among East Asian Cerris oaks reflected the imprints of both shared ancestral polymorphism and introgression. This pattern was also associated with the relatively stable climates and complex landscapes in East Asia, which not only allowed the long‐term persistence of ancestral lineages but also connected the survived populations across refugia.
Causes and consequences of variation in early‐life telomere length in a bird metapopulation
Authors: Pepke Michael Le , Kvalnes Thomas , Ranke Peter Sjolte , Araya‐Ajoy Yimen G. , Wright Jonathan , Sæther Bernt‐Erik , Jensen Henrik , Ringsby Thor Harald
Published: August 2022

Environmental conditions during early‐life development can have lasting effects shaping individual heterogeneity in fitness and fitness‐related traits. The length of telomeres, the DNA sequences protecting chromosome ends, may be affected by early‐life conditions, and telomere length (TL) has been associated with individual performance within some wild animal populations. Thus, knowledge of the mechanisms that generate variation in TL, and the relationship between TL and fitness, is important in understanding the role of telomeres in ecology and life‐history evolution. Here, we investigate how environmental conditions and morphological traits are associated with early‐life blood TL and if TL predicts natal dispersal probability or components of fitness in 2746 wild house sparrow (Passer domesticus) nestlings from two populations sampled across 20 years (1994–2013). We retrieved weather data and we monitored population fluctuations, individual survival, and reproductive output using field observations and genetic pedigrees. We found a negative effect of population density on TL, but only in one of the populations. There was a curvilinear association between TL and the maximum daily North Atlantic Oscillation index during incubation, suggesting that there are optimal weather conditions that result in the longest TL. Dispersers tended to have shorter telomeres than non‐dispersers. TL did not predict survival, but we found a tendency for individuals with short telomeres to have higher annual reproductive success. Our study showed how early‐life TL is shaped by effects of growth, weather conditions, and population density, supporting that environmental stressors negatively affect TL in wild populations. In addition, shorter telomeres may be associated with a faster pace‐of‐life, as individuals with higher dispersal rates and annual reproduction tended to have shorter early‐life TL.
Evolution of tricuspid regurgitation after transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair for secondary mitral regurgitation and its impact on mortality
Authors: Adamo Marianna , Pagnesi Matteo , Ghizzoni Giulia , Estévez‐Loureiro Rodrigo , Raposeiras‐Roubin Sergio , Tomasoni Daniela , Stolfo Davide , Sinagra Gianfranco , Popolo Rubbio Antonio , Bedogni Francesco , De Marco Federico , Giannini Cristina , Petronio Anna Sonia , Stazzoni Laura , Benito‐González Tomás , Fernández‐Vázquez Felipe , Garrote‐Coloma Carmen , Godino Cosmo , Agricola Eustachio , Munafò Andrea , Pascual Isaac , Avanzas Pablo , Léon Victor , Montefusco Antonio , Boretto Paolo , Pidello Stefano , Moñivas‐Palomero Vanessa , Del Trigo Maria , Biagini Elena , Berardini Alessandra , Saia Francesco , Nombela‐Franco Luis , Tirado‐Conte Gabriela , De Augustin Alberto , Caneiro‐Queija Berenice , De Luca Antonio , Branca Luca , Zaccone Gregorio , Lupi Laura , Lipsic Erik , Voors Adriaan , Metra Marco
Published: August 2022

Aim

To evaluate short‐term changes in tricuspid regurgitation (TR) after transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair (M‐TEER) in secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR), their predictors and impact on mortality.

Methods and results

This is a retrospective analysis of SMR patients undergoing successful M‐TEER (post‐procedural mitral regurgitation ≤2+) at 13 European centres. Among 503 patients evaluated 79 (interquartile range [IQR] 40–152) days after M‐TEER, 173 (35%) showed ≥1 degree of TR improvement, 97 (19%) had worsening of TR, and 233 (46%) remained unchanged. Smaller baseline left atrial diameter and residual mitral regurgitation 0/1+ were independent predictors of TR ≤2+ after M‐TEER. There was a significant association between TR changes and New York Heart Association class and pulmonary artery systolic pressure decrease at echocardiographic re‐assessment. At a median follow‐up of 590 (IQR 209–1103) days from short‐term echocardiographic re‐assessment, all‐cause mortality was lower in patients with improved compared to those with unchanged/worsened TR (29.6% vs. 42.3% at 3 years; log‐rank p = 0.034). Baseline TR severity was not associated with mortality, whereas TR 0/1+ and 2+ at short‐term follow‐up was associated with lower all‐cause mortality compared to TR 3/4+ (30.6% and 35.6% vs. 55.6% at 3 years; p < 0.001). A TR ≤2+ after M‐TEER was independently associated with a 42% decreased risk of mortality (p = 0.011).

Conclusion

More than one third of patients with SMR undergoing successful M‐TEER experienced an improvement in TR. Pre‐procedural TR was not associated with outcome, but a TR ≤2+ at short‐term follow‐up was independently associated with long‐term mortality. Optimal M‐TEER result and a small left atrium were associated with a higher likelihood of TR ≤2+ after M‐TEER.
NaZnAlP2O8: A New KZnBP2O8‐Type Congruent‐Melting Microporous Zincoaluminophosphate Accessed by Substitution Design Strategy and Molten Salt Method
Authors: Duan Meihong , Ma Peixin , Li Chaoqian , Ma Wenhua , Wang Baichuan , Ling Jia , Li Yanbo , Li Jun , Fang Zhi
Published: August 2022

A new KZnBP2O8‐type open‐frame zincoaluminophosphate, NaZnAlP2O8 (NZAPO), was obtained by a substitution design strategy and synthesized by a high temperature molten salt method. The structure of NZAPO was constructed by [ZnAlP2O8]∞ tetrahedral frame and Na+ ions, which is similar to those of KZnBP2O8 (KZBPO). With the remixing of Zn and Al in the new 4×8×8 network, NZAPO was characterized by enlarged eight‐membered loops as compared with those of KZBPO, indicating the high flexibility of [ZnAlP2O8]∞ tetrahedral frame and the validity of substitution design strategy to the access of fascinating open‐frame KZBPO‐type crystals. Remarkably, NZAPO not only exhibited similar optical properties with KZBPO but also featured a fascinating congruent melting behaviour, confirming the superiority of NZAPO in the family of KZBPO‐type crystals.
Chemical Bonding in the Intermetallic Compounds LaBeGe and ThBeGe
Authors: Kohout Miroslav , Gumeniuk Roman , Leithe‐Jasper Andreas
Published: August 2022

The bonding situation in the intermetallic compounds LaBeGe and ThBeGe were investigated using the wavefunctions generated from the all‐electron relativistic density functional calculations. Following the quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) the atomic basins were determined from the electron density and the effective charges computed. These were also compared to corresponding charges for the procrystal density. The bonding was analyzed utilizing the delocalization indices (DIs) computed from the overlap integrals over the QTAIM basins. The analysis was extended by the evaluation of the electron localizability indicator (ELI‐D) and completed by the calculation of DIs for the ELI‐D basins.
Asymmetric Cycloaddition/Annulation Reactions by Chiral Phosphoric Acid Catalysis: Recent Advances
Authors: Woldegiorgis Alemayehu Gashaw , Suleman Muhammad , Lin Xufeng
Published: August 2022

Asymmetric cycloaddition/annulation reactions have contributed greatly to the synthesis of a variety of novel cyclic compounds used in organic synthesis, natural product synthesis, material science, and chemical biology. Thus, chiral phosphoric acid‐catalyzed asymmetric cycloaddition reactions have received the attention of the synthetic community to design new vital asymmetric reactions and synthesize complex molecules for the past two decades. Although several review articles on organocatalyzed asymmetric cycloaddition reactions can be found in the literature, there has been no specific review on CPA‐catalyzed asymmetric cycloaddition/annulation reactions. Herein, the most recent research progress on chiral phosphoric acid catalyzed asymmetric [3+2], [4+2], [2+2], [3+3], [4+3], [4+1] annulation, and 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions have been compiled and analyzed to demonstrate the importance of chiral phosphoric acid catalysis in asymmetric cycloaddition or annulation reactions.
Multicomponent Functionalization of the Octreotide Peptide Macrocyclic Scaffold
Authors: Vasco Aldrin V. , Ceballos Leonardo G. , Wessjohann Ludger A. , Rivera Daniel G.
Published: August 2022

The replacement of the disulfide bridge by other types of side chain linkages has been a continuous endeavor in the development of cyclic peptide drugs with improved metabolic stability. Octreotide is a potent and selective somatostatin analog that has been used as an anticancer agent, in radiolabeled conjugates for the localization of tumors and as targeting moiety in peptide‐drug conjugates. Here, we describe an on‐resin methodology based on a multicomponent macrocyclization that enables the substitution of the disulfide bond by a tertiary lactam bridge functionalized with a variety of exocyclic moieties, including lipids, fluorophores, and charged groups. Conformational analysis in comparison with octreotide provides key information on the type of functionalization permitting the conformational mimicry of the bioactive peptide.
Classic concentration: Productivity and organization tools for remote and hybrid marketers
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: August 2022

My article in the July issue featured resources for remote and hybrid higher education marketing teams that focused on three areas: communication, collaboration, and camaraderie.
Extracapsular dissection by the sternocleidomastoid muscle–parotid space approach reduces the risks of postparotidectomy sialocele and salivary fistula
Authors: Lan Lin , Wang Diancan , Ma Ruohan , Wang Wei
Published: August 2022

Background

Postoperative sialoceles and fistulas are frequent surgical complications of parotid tumor resection. Extracapsular dissection by the sternocleidomastoid muscle–parotid space approach (ECD‐SMPSA) is a minimally invasive technique. To our knowledge, the characteristics of sialoceles and fistulas secondary to ECD‐SMPSA have not been reported.

Methods

This prospective study enrolled 52 patients who underwent ECD‐SMPSA without sialocele/fistula prevention measures. Postoperative sialoceles and fistulas were evaluated during 2 months of follow‐up.

Results

Among the 52 patients, only one male patient developed a mild sialocele. No salivary fistulas occurred. The overall rate of sialocele/fistula formation was 1.92%.

Conclusions

When treating clinically benign tumors that involve the sternocleidomastoid muscle–parotid space, ECD‐SMPSA may prevent postoperative formation of sialoceles and salivary fistulas.
Student reflections on an interdisciplinary pandemics course utilising systems thinking
Authors: Shelley Karen , Osborne Nicholas J. , Reid Simon , Willemsen Angela , Lawler Sheleigh
Published: August 2022

Issue addressed

The complexity and uncertainty of the COVID‐19 pandemic highlights the need to change training of public health professionals in higher education by shifting from siloed specialisations to interdisciplinary collaboration. At the end of 2020 and 2021, public health professionals collaboratively designed and delivered, a week‐long intensive course—Public Health in Pandemics. The aim of this research study was to understand whether the use of systems thinking in the design and delivery of the course enabled students to grasp the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary health promotion and public health practice.

Research methods

Two focus group interviews (n = 5 and 3/47) and a course opinion survey (n = 11/47) were utilised to gather information from students regarding experiences and perceptions of course design and delivery, and to determine if students felt better able to understand the complex nature of pandemics and pandemic responses.

Major findings

Students provided positive feedback on the course and believed that the course design and delivery assisted in understanding the complex nature of health problems and the ways in which health promotion and public health practitioners need to work across sectors with diverse disciplines for pandemic responses.

Conclusions

The use of an integrated interdisciplinary approach to course design and delivery enabled students used systems thinking to understand the complexity in preparing for and responding to a pandemic. This approach may have utility in preparing an agile, iterative and adaptive health promotion and public health workforce more capable of facing the challenges and complexity in public health.
Autoimmune conditions and pancreatic cancer risk in older American adults
Authors: Yuan Fangcheng , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Julián‐Serrano Sachelly , Arjani Simran , Barrett Michael J. , Koshiol Jill , Stolzenberg‐Solomon Rachael Z.
Published: August 2022

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is highly fatal, and its incidence is increasing in the United States. Population‐based registry studies suggest associations between a few autoimmune conditions and PC risk, albeit based on a relatively small number of cases. We conducted a population‐based, nested case‐control study to examine the associations between autoimmune conditions and PC risk within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER)‐Medicare population. Incident primary malignant PC cases (n = 80 074) were adults ≥66 years and diagnosed between 1992 and 2015. Controls (n = 320 296) were alive at the time cases were diagnosed and frequency‐matched to cases (4:1 ratio) by age, sex, and year of diagnosis. We used multivariable‐adjusted, unconditional logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for 45 autoimmune conditions identified from Medicare claims. Eight autoimmune conditions including ankylosing spondylitis (OR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.14‐1.84), Graves' disease (OR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.03‐1.34), localized scleroderma (OR = 1.27; 95% CI: 1.06‐1.52), pernicious anemia (OR = 1.08; 95% CI: 1.02‐1.14), primary sclerosing cholangitis (OR = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.18‐1.59), pure red cell aplasia (OR = 1.31; 95% CI: 1.16‐1.47), type 1 diabetes (OR = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.07‐1.15), and ulcerative colitis (OR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.07‐1.31) were associated with increased PC risk (false discovery rate‐adjusted P values <.10). In subtype analyses, these conditions were associated with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, whereas only ulcerative colitis was associated with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Our results support the hypothesis that autoimmune conditions may play a role in PC development.
Fathers’ help seeking behavior and attitudes during their transition to parenthood
Authors: Ghaleiha Amin , Barber Carrie , Tamatea Armon J. , Bird Amy
Published: August 2022

New fathers face multiple changes as they take on this complex, demanding, and continually shifting role. The current study aimed to understand these experiences, especially the ways fathers seek help and information while facing stressful situations. Eleven fathers completed a semi‐structured interview about their transition to fatherhood and whether and how they sought help and advice through that process. Results were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. Fathers viewed themselves as supportive figures and sources of financial and emotional stability for their families. Fathers experienced anxiety and uncertainty in their transition to parenthood, and utilized a variety of ways to cope with their stress; these were categorized into individual and interpersonal coping strategies. Most relied on their partner for emotional support, but some felt uncomfortable relying on her and using her for support while she was coping with pregnancy and new parenting. This study found that fathers tended to see themselves in a rather traditional role of provider and supporter of their partners and children, and this created some stresses for work‐life balance, and, for some, created a dilemma where they felt unable to seek emotional support from the person—their partner—on whom they would typically rely. These findings have important implications for fathers’ wellbeing and providing support programs for new fathers.
Sharpening Students' Racial Literacies through Multimodal Subversion
Authors: Howell Emily , Dyches Jeanne
Published: August 2022

This case study shares the experiences of 24 students in an urban high school in the U.S. Midwest who spent 6 weeks learning about, and applying tenets of, critical race theory (CRT) to their analysis of the canonicalThe Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Students created a visual essay reflecting their understanding of CRT in the novel and in their broader social milieu. Drawing from, and sharing possibilities for, merging theoretical principles from CRT, multiliteracies, and the writing process, we/the authors ask: How can students utilize multiple perspectives to sharpen racial literacies through multimodal design? These findings include three points of integration: (a) overt instruction, Whiteness, and organizing; (b) critical framing, intersectionality, and address; and (c) transformed practice, critical stance, and revise and survey again.
JNK pathway‐associated phosphatase illustrates low expression and negative correlations with inflammation, disease activity, and T‐helper 17 cells in inflammatory bowel disease children
Authors: Wang Caixia , Bai Cui , Mao Chenggang , Leng Xuefei , Wang Fang , Guo Xingqing
Published: August 2022

Background

C‐Jun N‐terminal kinase pathway‐associated phosphatase (JKAP) modulates the T cell receptor and mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway‐mediated autoimmunity, thus participating in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. This study aimed to explore the clinical implication of JKAP in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) children.

Methods

C‐Jun N‐terminal kinase pathway‐associated phosphatase, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐23, interferon‐γ (T‐helper 1 secreted cytokine), and interleukin‐17A (T‐helper 17 secreted cytokine) in serum samples from 140 IBD children (including 60 Crohn's disease (CD) children and 80 ulcerative colitis (UC) children) were detected by ELISA. Meanwhile, JKAP from serum samples of 10 healthy controls (HCs) was also detected by ELISA.

Results

C‐Jun N‐terminal kinase pathway‐associated phosphatase was reduced in CD children (median (interquartile range (IQR)): 51.6 (36.8–69.5) pg/ml) and UC children (median (IQR): 57.5 (43.4–78.5) pg/ml) compared with HCs (median (IQR): 101.8 (70.0–143.2) pg/ml) (bothp < 0.05). In CD children, JKAP was negatively correlated with C‐reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.016) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (p = 0.029); while in UC children, JKAP was also negatively correlated with CRP (p = 0.006) and ESR (p = 0.022). Regarding the correlation of JKAP with disease activity, it presented negative correlations with PCDAI (p = 0.001) and PUCAI (p = 0.002). Besides, JKAP was negatively related to TNF‐α (bothp < 0.05) but not interleukin‐23 (bothp>0.05) in CD and UC children. Additionally, JKAP was not correlated with interferon‐γ in CD or UC children (bothp>0.05), while negatively correlated with interleukin‐17A in CD and UC children (bothp < 0.05).

Conclusion

C‐Jun N‐terminal kinase pathway‐associated phosphatase shows low expression and negative correlations with inflammation, disease activity, and T‐helper 17 cells in IBD children.
Correlation analysis between vitamin A, D, and E status with altitude, seasonal variation, and other factors, among children aged 0–6 years in a Chinese population living in the Tibetan plateau of Ganzi prefecture
Authors: Huang Ping , Ke Gang , Lin Xinmei , Wang Quansheng , Lu Wei , Zeng Li , Xu Shiying
Published: August 2022

Objective

We attempted to understand the status of vitamin (Vit) A, D, and E in children aged 0–6 living in the Tibetan plateau areas of Ganzi prefecture, to provide the basis for relevant government departments to carry out physical examinations of these children and to prevent and cure four key diseases (Infantile diarrhea, nutritional anemia, rickets, and infantile pneumonia).

Methods

Serum retinol and tocopherol levels were detected using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Serum levels of 25‐(OH)D were detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS). The polynomial logistic regression was used to analyze the effects of age, season, altitude, and gender on Vit A, D, and E levels.

Results

Vit A and D had the lowest mean serum levels before the age of 1 year and with the most significant deficiency rates. The lowest Vit E levels were seen in the Toddlerhood group. The rates of deficiency and insufficiency were the highest. Vit A, D, and E levels were significantly affected by seasonal changes and were significantly higher in the summer than in any other season. Vit A and D were significantly affected by altitude, and their levels were lowest above 4 km.

Conclusion

The overall levels of Vit A, D, and E in children aged 0–6 in the Tibetan plateau areas of Ganzi prefecture were lower than those in the plain's areas.
Identify an innovative ferroptosis‐related gene in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hu Gangfeng , Huang Xia , Zhang Bo , Gao Pingfa , Wu Wei , Wang Jun
Published: August 2022

Background

SLC1A5 has been demonstrated to be associated with the progression of other tumors; however, studies are lacking in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we identify SLC1A5, as a novel ferroptosis factor, for HCC patients.

Methods

The core biomarkers were identified by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, and the genes present in liver cancer were validated using the public database. Then, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. In addition, we explore the relationship between SLC1A5 and clinical factors. Finally, we determine the effect of SLC1A5 on HCC cells using real‐time PCR, cell scratch analysis, transwell analysis, and CCK8 analysis in molecular biology experiments.

Results

Cox regression model shows that SLC1A5 was an independent risk factor for HCC patients. GSEA results indicated high expression of SLC1A5 related to the fatty acid metabolism pathway. Clinical correlation analysis demonstrates that alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) expression was positively correlated with SLC1A5 (p = 8e−05), and the higher tumor stage means the higher expression of SLC1A5 (p = .02). In addition, SLC1A5 expression was also positively correlated with vascular infiltration of HCC (p = .04). Furthermore, the SLC1A5 function deficiency experiment explored its underlying impact on the biological function of HCC. qPCR, also called quantitative polymerase chain reaction, confirmed that SLC1A5 was highly expressed in liver cancer when compared with normal tissues. Studies have also shown that downregulation of SLC1A5 can inhibit wound healing, invasion, and proliferation of HCC cells.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ferroptosis factor SLC1A5 is a new therapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma.
Identification of cuproptosis‐related subtypes and characterization of the tumor microenvironment landscape in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Huang Juntao , Xu Ziqian , Yuan Zhechen , Cheng Lixin , Zhou Chongchang , Shen Yi
Published: August 2022

Background

Cuproptosis is considered a novel copper‐dependent cell death model. In this study, we established a novel scoring system based on 10 cuproptosis‐related genes (CRGs) to predict the prognosis and immune landscape of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

The RNA‐seq data of HNSCC patients were downloaded from the GEO and TCGA databases and were merged into a novel HNSCC cohort. Multiomics landscape analyses were conducted, including tumor mutation burden (TMB), copy number variations and the interaction network of CRGs. Patients were then divided into different cuproptosis subtypes based on the expression of 10 CRGs and subsequently regrouped into novel gene clusters referring to differentially expressed genes. A cuproptosis score (CS) system was established using principal component analysis. The CIBERSORT, ssGSEA and ESTIMATE algorithms were used to assess the tumor immune microenvironment. Moreover, the immunotherapeutic and chemotherapeutic responses were assessed.

Results

Patients were divided into three cuproptosis subtypes and subsequently regrouped into three gene clusters, reflecting different immune infiltration. Assessed by the CS system, those with higher CSs exhibited worse prognosis and higher TMB frequency. Nevertheless, the immune‐related analysis revealed patients in the low‐CS group appeared immunosuppressive and easily suffered from immune escape. High CSs possibly show high expression of immune checkpoint genes and enhance chemotherapy sensitivity to cisplatin, docetaxel, and gemcitabine.

Conclusion

We established a novel scoring system to predict the prognosis and immune landscape of HNSCC patients. This signature exhibits satisfactory predictive effects and the potential to guide comprehensive treatment for patients.
Illustrating routine outcomes monitoring at different points in a patient's journey: Inpatient then daypatient treatment of a patient with depressive and borderline symptoms
Authors: Hooke Geoff R. , Savani Prachi , Stewart Brent , Araujo Suzanne , Page Andrew C.
Published: August 2022

Routine outcomes monitoring (ROM), combined with a psychotherapeutic intervention, can improve outcomes by assisting therapists in supporting patients who are off track to achieve a better treatment endpoint. While many ROM systems are suitable for particular clinical contexts, psychotherapy delivered in a hospital setting presents unique challenges. People can be treated as inpatients and daypatients, and psychotherapy may be delivered in multiple formats (e.g., closed and open groups; group and individual). The present case study will illustrate the adaptation of ROM to this environment with an 18‐year‐old woman with Borderline Personality Disorder. The patient was successfully treated with Dialectical Behavior Therapy as both an inpatient and daypatient. The case demonstrates the use of ROM systems and illustrate they are sufficiently flexible to accommodate these complexities of routine care.
Clinical utility of thiopurine metabolite monitoring in inflammatory bowel disease and its impact on healthcare utilization in Singapore
Authors: Yeo Jia Qi , Cheen Hua Heng McVin , Wong Amanda , Lim Teong Guan , Chowbay Balram , Leong Wai Fook , Wang Chunyan , Salazar Ennaliza , Chan Webber Pak Wo , Kong San Choon , Ong Wan Chee
Published: August 2022

Background and Aim

Thiopurines are recommended for maintenance of steroid‐free remission (SFR) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Thiopurine metabolite monitoring (MM) is increasingly used in the West but remains novel in Singapore, with limited information on its therapeutic and economic benefits. Hence, this study aims to investigate MM's clinical utility and its impact on healthcare resource utilization in Singaporean IBD patients.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted at Singapore General Hospital outpatient IBD Centre. Patients with IBD, baseline MM during 2014–2017, and weight‐based thiopurine doses for ≥4 weeks were followed up for 1 year. Actions were taken to optimize therapy, and metabolite levels before and after the first action were documented. Outcomes assessed included SFR, no therapy escalation or surgery, healthcare resource utilization, and direct healthcare costs.

Results

Ninety IBD patients (50 Crohn's disease, 40 ulcerative colitis) were included. Among them, 40% had baseline metabolite levels within therapeutic range, 31.1% sub‐therapeutic, 21.1% supra‐therapeutic, and 7.8% shunters. Repeated MM with subsequent dose optimization helped 67.2% of patients achieve therapeutic levels after 1 year. Overall, 87.8% of patients achieved SFR and 90% had no therapy escalation or surgery. Despite greater outpatient visits and laboratory investigations with MM, the median total healthcare costs at 1 year only increased marginally (S$6407.66 [shunters] vs S$5215.20 [supra‐therapeutic] vs S$4970.80 [sub‐therapeutic] vs S$4370.48 [control (within therapeutic range)], P = 0.592).

Conclusion

MM guided timely therapy escalation for non‐responders, identification of non‐adherence, and reversal of shunting. Therefore, it is a useful clinical tool to optimize thiopurines without significantly increasing healthcare costs.
本邦における医療用麻薬が抱える問題を考察する契機となったオピオイド中毒の1例(A case of opioid addiction providing an opportunity to consider the issues of medical narcotics in Japan)
Authors: (Shun Muramatsu) 村松 俊 , (Hidetaka Suzuki) 鈴木 秀鷹 , (Yumiko Shiba) 芝 裕美子 , (Hideshi Takano) 高野 日出志 , (Nobutaka Matsuura) 松浦 暢孝 , (Kosuke Yoshida) 吉田 耕輔 , (Manato Watanabe) 渡辺 真那斗
Published: August 2022

患者は88歳の女性。当院来院前日，構音障害，上肢の麻痺を認めていたが様子をみていた。来院当日意識障害を認めたため，当院へ救急搬送された。本人のそばにオキシコドン塩酸塩水和物の複数の空包を認めた。救急外来受診時，徐呼吸であり瞳孔は縮瞳していた。ナロキソンを静脈注射したところ，徐呼吸および意識障害は改善したのでオピオイド中毒と診断した。頭部CT・MRIでは右中大脳動脈・右後下小脳動脈領域に脳梗塞を認め，集中治療室での治療を続けた。オキシコドン塩酸塩水和物は他界した配偶者の癌性疼痛に対して処方されていたものである。一般に麻薬は麻薬および向精神薬取締法で厳密に管理されているが，未使用麻薬の返却については麻薬診療施設または麻薬小売業者に持参するように指導するのみである。アメリカ合衆国では，オピオイド中毒が大きな社会問題になっているが，現状では本邦における発生件数は少ない。一方で，慢性疼痛に対しての麻薬処方が解禁され，加えて一部のover the counter（OTC）薬にもオピオイドが含まれていることから今後オピオイド中毒の増加が懸念される。本症例は医療用麻薬によって生じた急性中毒であり，今後のこれらの取り扱いについてさらなる議論が必要であり報告した。
Climatology and the dynamic mechanism of the Levar wind and dust events in eastern Iran
Authors: Alizadeh Omid , Abniki Marzieh , Babaei Morteza , Irannejad Parviz
Published: August 2022

Dust storms in eastern Iran have a wide range of socioeconomic impacts, yet long‐term numerical model analysis of the mechanism of strong winds and dust events in this region is limited. The regional climate model version 4 (RegCM4) coupled with a dust module is used to understand the climatology, climatic change, and the dynamic mechanism of the Levar wind and dust events in eastern Iran for the period 1991–2017. It is found that the strong Levar wind is the main driver of dust events in eastern Iran, particularly from June to September. Both model simulation and observations indicate that the Levar wind is strongest on the border between South Khorasan Province in Iran and Afghanistan. Our analysis indicates that the Levar wind is caused by the development of anomalous surface high pressure in Central Asia extending toward northeastern Iran and anomalous surface low pressure on the border between western Afghanistan and Pakistan. The strong pressure gradient force associated with these anomalous high‐ and low‐pressure systems is responsible for the strong northerly Levar wind on the border between Iran and Afghanistan. Dust activity in eastern Iran exhibits a distinct seasonality. The highest dust emission occurs on the border between eastern South Khorasan Province in Iran and western Afghanistan from June to September, where near‐surface winds are also the strongest. Relatively less dust emission occurs in dry beds of Jazmourian from June to September, south of Saravan in May, and Rig‐e Yalan in June. The removal of dust particles from the atmosphere is mainly by dry deposition in eastern Iran. The main sink of dust is located in the western parts of the Sistan Basin. Dust emission and burden in the main source of dust in eastern Iran have significantly decreased during the period 1991–2017, while near‐surface wind speed has remained nearly unchanged.
M2 macrophages with inflammation tropism facilitate cementoblast mineralization
Authors: Huang Xin , Wang Xiaoxuan , Ma Li , Wang Huiyi , Peng Yan , Liu Heyu , Xiao Junhong , Cao Zhengguo
Published: August 2022

Background

Cementum regeneration was regarded as the critical goal for periodontal regeneration, and M2 macrophage‐based therapy was expected to be a promising strategy. However, little is known about the effects of M2 macrophages on cementoblast mineralization and tropism, especially under inflammation. Here we investigated for the first time the crosstalk between M2 macrophages and Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg)‐stimulated cementoblasts.

Methods

M2 macrophages were induced with interleukin (IL)‐4, and identified. CC‐chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) expression and secretion of inflammatory cementoblasts were detected by reverse transcription quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry for apical periodontitis (AP) mice, and by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Crystal violet staining was used to observe macrophage migration. Conditional medium (CM) and transwell coculture methods were applied to evaluate the effects of M2 macrophages on cementum mineralization with or without Pg, and to explore the mechanism. Mineralization‐related markers and pathway‐related proteins were measured by RT‐qPCR and WB.

Results

M2 macrophages were identified successfully. We found an increase of CCL2 in cementoblasts and their supernatant. Also, higher CCL2 in cementoblasts was observed in the AP model. Superior recruitment of M2 macrophages to supernatant from Pg‐stimulated cementoblasts or CCL2‐containing medium was verified. Moreover, CM2 and Trans‐M2 showed better mineralization‐accelerating and rescuing effects when compared to their controls, and application of p38 inhibitor partially blocked the promotion.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated the inflammation‐targeting and mineralization‐promoting effects of M2 macrophages on cementoblasts, which may provide evidence for M2 macrophage‐based cementum regeneration.
Hertwig's epithelial root sheath cells show potential for periodontal complex regeneration
Authors: Bi Fei , Tang Huilin , Zhang Zhijun , Lyu Yun , Huo Fangjun , Chen Guoqing , Guo Weihua
Published: August 2022

Background

Although researchers have been exploring therapeutic strategies of treating serious periodontal tissue loss, including the application of stem cells, tissue regeneration of the periodontal complex involving cementum, periodontium, and alveolar bone has hardly been achieved. Aiming at tackling the problem of severely damaged periodontal complex, it is worth trying to make advantages of Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS) cells to tissue regeneration mimicking the physiological developmental process with their ability of cementum, bone, and periodontium formation.

Methods

HERS cells and dental follicle cells (DFCs) were acquired from Sprague Dawley rats’ molar germs and identified by immunofluorescence. Alizarin red assay, ALP staining, AKP test, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and Western blot were conducted to confirm the osteogenic potential, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) character of harvested HERS cells and epithelial‐mesenchymal interaction (EMI) with DFCs. An animal model of periodontal defect was constructed to testify the tissue regeneration ability in vivo. Micro‐CT and histological examinations were interpreted to unveil the tissue repair outcomes.

Results

HERS cells expressed strong epithelial cell markers CK14 and E‐cadherin. The in vitro experiments overall showed the concretely enhanced osteogenic differentiation ability in either HERS group or HERS+DFC group. Meanwhile, the in vivo conduction of rat mandibular periodontal repair experiment showed regenerative effectiveness of periodontal complex structure in both HERS and HERS+DFC group in situ, testified by Micro‐CT and histological analysis.

Conclusions

HERS cells show potential for periodontal tissue regeneration which suggests the future possibilities of being considered as one of the cell choices for severely damaged periodontal tissue repair.
Elevated preoperative controlling nutritional status (CONUT) scores as a predictor of postoperative recurrence in gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Authors: Yang Weili , Shou Chunhui , Yu Jiren , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Qing , Yu Hang , Lin Xianke
Published: August 2022

Background

The controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score is associated with the postoperative outcomes in various types of tumors, and its prognostic role in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) needs to be clarified.

Methods

Patients with completely resected primary GISTs in the absence of imatinib adjuvant therapy were included. Recurrence‐free survival (RFS) was estimated with the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using log‐rank test. Prognostic factors were compared using Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

A total of 455 patients were included. The median follow‐up time was 132.0 months (range: 7.0–253.0). Recurrence/metastasis developed in 92 (20.2%) patients. Patients were assigned to three groups: 219 (48.1%) were in normal nutrition group (CONUT = 0–1), 196 (43.1%) were in mild malnutrition group (CONUT = 2–4) and 40 (8.8%) were in moderate–severe malnutrition group (CONUT ≥ 5). Nongastric primary tumor site, large tumor size, high mitotic index, tumor rupture and high CONUT score were independent prognostic factors for shorter RFS using multivariate analysis (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Elevated preoperative CONUT score was a predictor of recurrence for patients with resected GIST. The clinical application of the CONUT score is simple and feasible, and might contribute to the individualized treatment of GIST patients.
Allergic Rhinitis Seasonality, Severity, and Disease Control Influence Anxiety and Depression
Authors: Rodrigues Jorge , Pinto João V. , Alexandre Pedro L. , Sousa‐Pinto Bernardo , Pereira Ana M. , Raemdonck Kristof , Vaz Ricardo P.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Allergic rhinitis (AR) has been associated with anxiety and depression. A possible influence of frequency and intensity of the AR symptoms has remained unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the association between AR, as well as its control, seasonality and severity, and the presence of anxiety and depression.

Methods

Participants were selected from a preexistent national database and consecutively contacted by phone. AR was classified according to Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma. Presence of anxiety and depression was identified by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Beck Depression Inventory‐II (BDI‐II). We built linear regression models assessing the association between any of the assessed anxiety or depression scores and the occurrence, degree of control, seasonality or severity of AR.

Results

We analyzed 115 participants with AR and 38 participants with no respiratory symptoms. Patients with AR presented higher scores of anxiety (HADS: 3.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.9; 4.3; p < 0.001) and depression (HADS: 3.8; 95% CI = 2.5; 5.0; p < 0.001). Poorer AR control was positively associated with higher prevalence and scores of anxiety (HADS: 3.0; 95% CI = 1.5; 4.5; p < 0.001) and depression (HADS: 1.8; 95% CI = 0.2; 3.4; p = 0.031). Similar results were obtained with BAI and BDI‐II scales. A moderate/severe presentation of AR were also related with higher scores of anxiety (HADS: 1.7; 95% CI = 0.1; 3.2; p = 0.040) and depression (HADS: 1.7; 95% CI = 0.1; 3.3; p = 0.037).

Conclusion

The presence of AR, a poorer control, and a moderate/severe presentation of the disease were significantly associated with higher scores of anxiety and depression. Thus, it is important to alert to this association to allow a quick diagnosis of AR‐associated pathologies. Laryngoscope, 133:1321–1327, 2023
Increasing corrosion resistance of AISI 1010 steel by boride coatings
Authors: Bayça Salih U. , Bican Osman
Published: August 2022

Boriding is the process of coating the metal surface with a ceramic metal boride layer by the diffusion method. Iron borides, one of the metal borides, are called ceramics because they are covalently bonded compounds. Iron boride coatings contain strong Fe–B and B–B covalent bonds. In this study, the effect of boronizing on the corrosion resistance of AISI 1010 steel was investigated. Baybora‐1 which has recently been patented was used as boronizing agent. AISI 1010 steel was borided at 950°C for 2, 4, and 6 h using the solid method. The microstructure, hardness, and corrosion rate of the samples were investigated. The change in the corrosion rate of the samples was determined by the corrosion test specified in the ASTM G31‐72 standard. The results showed that the hardness of the iron boride layer formed on the surface as a result of the boronizing process was greater than that of the matrix. As a result of the boriding process, the hardness of the iron boride layer on the steel surface reached approximately eight times the hardness of the substrate matrix. The thickness of the iron boride layer on the steel sample surface was measured at 950°C for 2 and 6 h, respectively, as 45 ± 12 and 155 ± 13 µm. It was concluded that the boriding process increased the corrosion resistance of steel.