bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetic study of an anti‐trypanosome agent with different formulations and administration routes in mice by HPLC–MS/MS
Authors: Li Yaxin , Orahoske Cody M. , Dano Raina , Zhang Wenjing , Li Bibo , Su Bin
Published: May 2021

Previously compound 12 showed great anti‐trypanosome activity without toxicity in an in vivo study. In the current study, a sensitive and rapid high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) method was developed and validated to investigate its pharmacokinetics in mouse plasma. A protein precipitation method was applied to extract the compound, and it was then separated using a Kinetex C18 column with mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile–0.1% formic acid water (50:50, v/v) at a flow rate of 300 μl/min. The analytes were detected with the multiple reaction monitoring in negative electrospray ionization source for quantitative response of the compounds. Compound 12 was detected at m/z 477.0 → 367.2, while the internal standard compound 14 was detected at m/z 499.2 → 268.2. Inter‐ and intra‐day precision was <5.22 and 2.79% respectively, while the accuracy range was within ±9.65%. The method was successfully applied to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of compound 12 in mouse plasma with two formulations (20% Cremophor EL or sesame oil) and drug administration routes (oral and intraperitoneal injection). We observed a better drug serum concentration with the Cremophor formulation, and the two different drug administration routes did not show significant differences from the drug distribution.
Glioma glycolipid metabolism: MSI2–SNORD12B–FIP1L1–ZBTB4 feedback loop as a potential treatment target
Authors: Dong Weiwei , Liu Xiaobai , Yang Chunqing , Wang Di , Xue Yixue , Ruan Xuelei , Zhang Mengyang , Song Jian , Cai Heng , Zheng Jian , Liu Yunhui
Published: May 2021

Abnormal energy metabolism, including enhanced aerobic glycolysis and lipid synthesis, is a well‐established feature of glioblastoma (GBM) cells. Thus, targeting the cellular glycolipid metabolism can be a feasible therapeutic strategy for GBM. This study aimed to evaluate the roles of MSI2, SNORD12B, and ZBTB4 in regulating the glycolipid metabolism and proliferation of GBM cells. MSI2 and SNORD12B expression was significantly upregulated and ZBTB4 expression was significantly low in GBM tissues and cells. Knockdown of MSI2 or SNORD12B or overexpression of ZBTB4 inhibited GBM cell glycolipid metabolism and proliferation. MSI2 may improve SNORD12B expression by increasing its stability. Importantly, SNORD12B increased utilization of the ZBTB4 mRNA transcript distal polyadenylation signal in alternative polyadenylation processing by competitively combining with FIP1L1, which decreased ZBTB4 expression because of the increased proportion of the 3′ untranslated region long transcript. ZBTB4 transcriptionally suppressed the expression of HK2 and ACLY by binding directly to the promoter regions. Additionally, ZBTB4 bound the MSI promoter region to transcriptionally suppress MSI2 expression, thereby forming an MSI2/SNORD12B/FIP1L1/ZBTB4 feedback loop to regulate the glycolipid metabolism and proliferation of GBM cells. In conclusion, MSI2 increased the stability of SNORD12B, which regulated ZBTB4 alternative polyadenylation processing by competitively binding to FIP1L1. Thus, the MSI2/SNORD12B/FIP1L1/ZBTB4 positive feedback loop plays a crucial role in regulating the glycolipid metabolism of GBM cells and provides a potential drug target for glioma treatment.
Development of 100 kHz optical pumped atomic magnetometer module for non‐magnetic shield
Authors: Takeda Shun , Kumagai Hiroshi , Nebuya Satoru
Published: May 2021

In recent years, various sensors for biomagnetic measurement have been researched and developed. These are mainly for low frequency small signals such as magnetocardiography. Optical pumped atomic magnetometer (OPAM) would rather be applicable to this high frequency signal since there is a valid signal at higher frequencies. However, the highly sensitive OPAM uses a magnetic shield and an anti‐vibration table, which makes the OPAM system larger. By packing the optical system in one case, you can develop an OPAM module that can measure even while moving. As a result, by using a phase‐locked loop, we have achieved a sensitivity of 2.548 pT/Hz1/2 for a 100 kHz magnetic signal in the presence of a bias magnetic field and electromagnetic noise.
The Development of Organocatalytic Asymmetric Reduction of Carbonyls and Imines Using Silicon Hydrides
Authors: Chen Wenchao , Tan Choon‐Hong , Wang Hong , Ye Xinyi
Published: May 2021

The asymmetric reduction of prochiral ketones and ketimines represents one of the most important and practical chemical transformations toward the synthesis of valuable chiral alcohols and amines. Among the existing strategies, organocatalyzed asymmetric reduction of carbonyls and imines using silicon hydrides is attractive due to low‐cost, chemical stability, and easy handling in experiments. In this review, we wish to highlight the recent progress made in the past fifteen years in this field. Four catalytic systems of different activation modes are presented and discussed in detail. We aim to help shed light on common features that enable highly enantioselective silicon hydride reductions through organocatalysis and provide the design principles for the development of more effective catalytic systems.
Numerical and experimental study of cedar façade fire
Authors: Zhou Biao , Yoshioka Hideki , Kanematsu Manabu , Noguchi Takafumi
Published: May 2021

This article presents a large eddy simulation and experimental study of cedar façade behavior exposed to a 900 kW window spilled flame. The experiments used for validation were carried out in the Building Research of Institute of Japan in Tsukuba according to JIS A 1310 method. The compartment fire was modeled by using the modified eddy dissipation model with a diffusion mixing time scale for the near wall laminar region of combustion model, oneEqEddy model of turbulence model, pyrolysis chemistry mode of pyrolysis model, and finite volume discrete ordinates method of radiation model. The fire flame is treated as optically thin, and a fixed radiant fraction 0.35 is used to calculate the radiation source term. The pyrolysis model of cedar was modeled and optimized according to the results of fire propagation apparatus test. The influence of cedar parameters on time‐to‐pHRR (peak HRR), pHRR, and (total heat release rate) THR curves of facade fire were clarified by a series of simulation varying from thermal density, conductivity, heat capacity, and pyrolysis reaction parameters. It indicates the simulation results show a reasonable good quantitative agreement with experimental measurements. The activation energy of cedar pyrolysis shows a great influence on the time‐to‐pHRR, low pHRR, and THR of cedar facade.
Developing a competency framework for managers to address suicide risk in the workplace
Authors: O'Brien Sinéad , Galavan Eoin , O'Shea Deirdre
Published: May 2021

Employee mental health, and in particular, suicide risks, are things that managers often do not feel comfortable in addressing, leading to lack of knowledge, awareness, and support within an organization. The purpose of this research was to investigate the competencies required by managers to enable them to effectively address suicide risks arising with employees. Suicide‐related ideations are thought to be characterized by experiences of burdensomeness and thwarted connectedness. Drawing on clinical, managerial, and adaptive performance competencies, we examined competencies related to creating meaningfulness (as a counter to burdensomeness) and addressing employee's need for relatedness (as a counter to thwarted connectedness) in terms of how managers assist employees presenting with suicide‐related ideations in the workplace. To investigate this and develop a competency framework, we conducted qualitative interviews with 18 managers, drawing on existing interview protocols of critical incidents and behavioral event interviews for the elicitation of competencies. Competencies in adaptive performance (and particularly crisis management) emerged as important for facilitating managers’ interactions with employees who may present with suicidality. This research provides a first step in developing resources to equip managers with the necessary competencies that are needed to deal with employees experiencing suicide‐related ideations (i.e. perceived burdensomeness and thwarted connectedness). The framework is also useful as an initial step to support human resource development (HRD) professionals develop interventions such as training and/or mentoring programs for managers to address this very important issue.
A simple, sensitive, and low‐cost FACS assay for detecting antibodies against the native SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein
Authors: Hambach Julia , Stähler Tobias , Eden Thomas , Wendt Dorte , Tode Natalie , Haag Friedrich , Tolosa Eva , Altfeld Marcus , Fathi Anahita , Dahlke Christine , Addo Marylyn M. , Menzel Stephan , Koch‐Nolte Friedrich
Published: May 2021

Background: Hamburg is a city state of approximately 1.9 Mio inhabitants in Northern Germany. Currently, the COVID‐19 epidemic that had largely subsided during last summer is resurging in Hamburg and in other parts of the world, underlining the need for additional tools to monitor SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody responses.

Aim: We aimed to develop and validate a simple, low‐cost assay for detecting antibodies against the native coronavirus 2 spike protein (CoV‐2 S) that does not require recombinant protein or virus.

Method: We transiently co‐transfected HEK cells or CHO cells with expression vectors encoding CoV‐2 S and nuclear GFP. Spike protein‐specific antibodies in human serum samples bound to transfected cells were detected with fluorochrome conjugated secondary antibodies by flow cytometry orimmunofluorescence microscopy. We applied this assay to monitor antibody development in COVID‐19 patients, household contacts, and hospital personnel during the ongoing epidemic in the city state of Hamburg.

Results: All recovered COVID‐19 patients showed high levels of CoV‐2 S‐specific antibodies. With one exception, all household members that did not develop symptoms also did not develop detectable antibodies. Similarly, lab personnel that worked during the epidemic and followed social distancing guidelines remained antibody‐negative.

Conclusion: We conclude that high‐titer CoV‐2 S‐specific antibodies are found in most recovered COVID‐19 patients and in symptomatic contacts, but only rarely in asymptomatic contacts. The assay may help health care providers to monitor disease progression and antibody responses in vaccination trials, to identify health care personnel that likely are resistant to re‐infection, and recovered individuals with high antibody titers that may be suitable asplasma and/or antibody donors.
Urine‐derived stem cells loaded onto a chitosan‐optimized biphasic calcium‐phosphate scaffold for repairing large segmental bone defects in rabbits
Authors: Liu Guoming , Sun Jiachen , Gong Min , Xing Fei , Wu Shuang , Xiang Zhou
Published: May 2021

The treatment of large segmental bone defects can be challenging for orthopedic surgeons. The development of bone tissue engineering technology, including the selection of seeding cells and the construction of scaffolds, provides a promising solution. In this study, we investigated osteogenic differentiation of human urine‐derived stem cells (hUSCs, a newly identified class of stem cells), and developed a novel porous hybrid scaffold using biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) bioceramic ornamented with chitosan sponges (CS). We combined hUSCs with a CS/BCP hybrid scaffold to construct tissue‐engineered bone and evaluated whether the combination promotes bone regeneration in large segmental bone defects in rabbits. The study showed that hUSCs can differentiate into osteoblasts, and the hUSCs adhered, proliferated, and differentiated on CS/BCP hybrid scaffolds. Micro–computed tomography measurements, biomechanical detection, and histological analyses revealed that the combination of hUSCs and the CS/BCP hybrid scaffold enhanced bone regeneration more effectively compared with conventional pure BCP scaffolds, indicating that hUSCs can be used as a cell source for bone tissue engineering and that cell‐scaffold–based biomimetic bone may be a promising approach to the repair of bone defects.
ModelingUV–Visspectra of low dimensional materials using electrostatic embedding: The case ofCdSe
Authors: Luise Davide , Wilbraham Liam , Labat Frédéric , Ciofini Ilaria
Published: May 2021

We present a generalization of a self‐consistent electrostatic embedding approach (SC‐Ewald) devised to investigate the photophysical properties of 3D periodic materials, to systems in one‐ or two‐dimensional (2D) reduced periodicity. In this approach, calculations are carried out on a small finite molecular cluster extracted from a periodic model, while the crystalline environment is accounted for by an array of point charges which are fitted to reproduce the exact electrostatic potential (at ground or the excited state) of the infinite periodic system. Periodic density functional theory (DFT) calculations are combined with time dependent DFT calculations to simulate absorption and emission properties of the extended system under investigation. We apply this method to compute the UV–Vis. spectra of bulk and quantum‐confined 0D quantum dots and 2D extended nanoplatelets of CdSe, due to their relevance as sensitizers in solar cells technologies. The influence of the size and shape of the finite cluster model chosen in the excited state calculations was also investigated and revealed that, although the long‐range electrostatics of the environment are important for the calculation of the UV–Vis, a subtle balance between short‐ and long‐range effects exists. These encouraging results demonstrate that this self‐consistent electrostatic embedding approach, when applied in different dimensions, can successfully model the photophysical properties of diverse material classes, making it an attractive low‐cost alternative to far more computationally demanding electronic structure methods for excited state calculations.
How prevalent is workplace mistreatment? A meta‐analytic investigation
Authors: Dhanani Lindsay Y. , LaPalme Matthew L. , Joseph Dana L.
Published: May 2021

Organizations, researchers, and policymakers rely on estimates of the prevalence of workplace mistreatment in numerous ways, including assessing the need for legal or organizational intervention. However, despite the importance of having accurate prevalence rate estimates, there has not been a systematic attempt to estimate the proportion of employees who encounter mistreatment. This study thus sought to meta‐analytically estimate the prevalence of a comprehensive set of forms of workplace mistreatment. In doing so, we reconcile the substantial variability in prevalence rates reported across studies by exploring factors that may influence prevalence rates. Results showed an average of 34% of employees experienced mistreatment and 44% of employees witnessed mistreatment. Estimates ranged from 16% to 75% for specific forms of experienced mistreatment and 20% to 79% for witnessed mistreatment. Prevalence rates also varied as a function of measurement characteristics. We next used our meta‐analytic prevalence rate estimates to infer the financial cost of mistreatment due to increased sickness absences and productivity loss. The estimated cost ranged from $691.70 billion to $1.97 trillion annually. Finally, results suggest that prevalence rates are lowest in countries where greater legal protections are offered to workers, illustrating the utility of legal efforts in mitigating mistreatment. Recommendations for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers are discussed.
Reduction in Pediatric Ambulatory Adenotonsillectomy Length of Stay Using Clinical Care Guidelines
Authors: Lavin Jennifer , Studer Abbey , Thompson Dana , Ida Jonathan , Rastatter Jeff , Manisha Patel , Huetteman Patricia , Hoeman Erin , Duggan Sarah , Birmingham Patrick , King Michael R. , Billings Kathleen
Published: May 2021

Objective

Standardization of postoperative care using clinical care guidelines (CCG) improves quality by minimizing unwarranted variation. It is unknown whether CCGs impact patient throughput in outpatient adenotonsillectomy (T&A). We hypothesize that CCG implementation is associated with decreased postoperative length of stay (LOS) in outpatient T&A.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team was assembled to design and implement a T&A CCG. Standardized discharge criteria were established, including goal fluid intake and parental demonstration of medication administration. An order set was created that included a hard stop for discharge timeframe with choices “meets criteria,” “4‐hour observation,” and “overnight stay.” Consensus was achieved in June 2018, and the CCG was implemented in October 2018. Postoperative LOS for patients discharged the same day was tracked using control chart analysis with standard definitions for centerline shift being utilized. Trends in discharge timeframe selection were also followed.

Results

Between July 2015 and August 2017, the average LOS was 4.82 hours. This decreased to 4.39 hours in September 2017 despite no known interventions and remained stable for 17 months. After CCG implementation, an initial trend toward increased LOS was followed by centerline shifts to 3.83 and 3.53 hours in March and October 2019, respectively. Selection of the “meets criteria” discharge timeframe increased over time after CCG implementation (R2 = 0.38 P = .003).

Conclusions

Implementation of a CCG with standardized discharge criteria was associated with shortened postoperative LOS in outpatient T&A. Concurrently, surgeons shifted practice to discharge patients upon meeting criteria rather than after a designated timeframe.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:2610–2615, 2021
Early pediatric Cochlear implantation: An update
Authors: Naik Akash N. , Varadarajan Varun V. , Malhotra Prashant S.
Published: May 2021

The criteria and candidacy for pediatric cochlear implantation (CI) has significantly transformed over the past few decades and continues to evolve with technological advancements, and recognition of benefit in more diverse populations. Prolonged auditory deprivation among patients with profound sensorineural hearing loss has been shown to cause widespread degeneration in the central auditory system. Thus, there is increasing evidence advocating for earlier implantation within a critical neuroplastic window. However, there is a lack of consensus on this optimal age of implantation. Historically, there were concerns regarding surgical feasibility and safety, anesthesia risk, and logistical considerations in very young infants <12 months. Recent literature has investigated surgical safety and anesthesia risk as well speech and language outcomes with early implantation, resulting in the long‐awaited reduction in approved age by the FDA (<9 months for certain devices). This article reviews logistical considerations, surgical safety, anesthesia risk, and language developmental outcomes associated with early CI (<12 months).
Evaluation of novel AI‐based extended field‐of‐view CT reconstructions
Authors: Fonseca Gabriel Paiva , Baer‐Beck Matthias , Fournie Eric , Hofmann Christian , Rinaldi Ilaria , Ollers Michel C , van Elmpt Wouter J.C. , Verhaegen Frank
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Modern computed tomography (CT) scanners have an extended field‐of‐view (eFoV) for reconstructing images up to the bore size, which is relevant for patients with higher BMI or non‐isocentric positioning due to fixation devices. However, the accuracy of the image reconstruction in eFoV is not well known since truncated data are used. This study introduces a new deep learning‐based algorithm for extended field‐of‐view reconstruction and evaluates the accuracy of the eFoV reconstruction focusing on aspects relevant for radiotherapy.

Methods

A life‐size three‐dimensional (3D) printed thorax phantom, based on a patient CT for which eFoV was necessary, was manufactured and used as reference. The phantom has holes allowing the placement of tissue mimicking inserts used to evaluate the Hounsfield unit (HU) accuracy. CT images of the phantom were acquired using different configurations aiming to evaluate geometric and HU accuracy in the eFoV. Image reconstruction was performed using a state‐of‐the‐art reconstruction algorithm (HDFoV), commercially available, and the novel deep learning‐based approach (HDeepFoV). Five patient cases were selected to evaluate the performance of both algorithms on patient data. There is no ground truth for patients so the reconstructions were qualitatively evaluated by five physicians and five medical physicists.

Results

The phantom geometry reconstructed with HDFoV showed boundary deviations from 1.0 to 2.5 cm depending on the volume of the phantom outside the regular scan field of view. HDeepFoV showed a superior performance regardless of the volume of the phantom within eFOV with a maximum boundary deviation below 1.0 cm. The maximum HU (absolute) difference for soft issue inserts is below 79 and 41 HU for HDFoV and HDeepFoV, respectively. HDeepFoV has a maximum deviation of −18 HU for an inhaled lung insert while HDFoV reached a 229 HU difference. The qualitative evaluation of patient cases shows that the novel deep learning approach produces images that look more realistic and have fewer artifacts.

Conclusion

To be able to reconstruct images outside the sFoV of the CT scanner there is no alternative than to use some kind of extrapolated data. In our study, we proposed and investigated a new deep learning‐based algorithm and compared it to a commercial solution for eFoV reconstruction. The deep learning‐based algorithm showed superior performance in quantitative evaluations based on phantom data and in qualitative assessments of patient data.
Optimal strategy in managing product quality risk for a risk‐averse manufacturer: Prevention or mitigation?
Authors: Chen Jing , Wei Hang , Xie Lei
Published: May 2021

We explore a single‐period manufacturing system in which component quality is random and a risk‐averse manufacturer decides whether to procure these components from an upstream supplier. We find that product recall insurance could significantly relieve financial pressure for a manufacturer with a high or medium risk aversion. Interestingly, as external failure cost becomes larger, the manufacturer should invest more in inspecting components than enlarging the coverage of insurance. Conversely, when component quality level becomes higher, the manufacturer would purchase an insurance with a larger coverage and set a smaller inspection level. We also find that product recall insurance and incoming inspection are substitutes when the manufacturer has a low risk aversion. While, for a manufacturer with a medium risk aversion, product recall insurance and incoming inspection become complements if the cost of product recall insurance is high.
Anxiety and stress severity are related to greater fear of missing out on rewarding experiences: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Elhai Jon D. , Yang Haibo , Montag Christian
Published: May 2021

The fear of missing out on rewarding social experiences (FOMO) is an increasingly studied psychological construct, related to negative affectivity and increased online social engagement. Yet the heterogeneity of FOMO across individuals is not known. We conducted a latent profile analysis (LPA) of FOMO self‐report ratings to determine sample heterogeneity and uncover underlying subgroups (profiles) of participants. We recruited 920 undergraduate participants through a Chinese university for an online survey, administering the FOMO Scale and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale‐21. Results demonstrated support for a four‐profile LPA model based on FOMO ratings. Using multinomial logistic regression, more severe latent profiles (i.e., those with the greatest amount of FOMO endorsed) were associated with female sex, and higher stress and anxiety severity. Results suggest four distinct latent profiles based on FOMO ratings; findings are discussed in the context of self‐determination theory.
Clinical outcomes, management, and treatment patterns in patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer treated with radium‐223 in community compared to academic settings
Authors: Sartor Oliver , Appukkuttan Sreevalsa , Weiss Jeffrey , Tsao Che‐Kai
Published: May 2021

Background

The most common site of disease in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is the bone. The ALSYMPCA study demonstrated that radium‐223 significantly improved overall survival (OS) in mCRPC patients with symptomatic bone metastases and without visceral metastases. However, administration requires a multidisciplinary approach and an infrastructure that supports coordination of care, which may differ by practice site. We aimed to evaluate practice patterns and treatment outcomes in patients with mCRPC treated at a community practice (CP) compared with those treated at an academic center (AC).

Methods

This retrospective review included 200 adult mCRPC patients receiving radium‐223 between January 2014 and June 2017. The primary endpoint, OS, was estimated from the date of radium‐223 initiation. Secondary outcomes included a comparison of baseline characteristics, reasons for initiation and discontinuation of radium‐223, and treatment sequencing. A subset analysis of OS based on the number of radium‐223 doses and on sequencing of radium‐223 either before or after chemotherapy was also conducted.

Results

Most patients were treated at a CP (57%). Patients treated at CP sites were significantly older (74.9 vs. 71.9 years; p = .031) and had more comorbidities (Klabunde score 1.1 vs. 0.7; p = .020) than those in an AC but initiated treatment within a shorter period of time from diagnosis of mCRPC (1.3 vs. 1.9 years; p < .001) and received a greater mean number of radium‐223 doses (5.4 vs. 4.8; p = .001). There were no observed differences in OS between CPs versus ACs (21.6 vs. 20.7 months; p = .306). Overall, patients who received 5–6 doses versus 1–4 doses of radium‐223 had a longer median OS (23.3 vs. 6.4 months; p < .001). The most common reason for discontinuation in patients who did not complete treatment was disease progression. Overall, 43% of patients received radium‐223 monotherapy and 57% concurrently with other agents.

Conclusions

Most patients received radium‐223 concurrently with abiraterone acetate or enzalutamide and were able to complete 5–6 doses of radium‐223. Despite differences in the populations and treatment patterns, no survival differences between patients treated in ACs versus CPs were observed. Additional real‐world data are needed to validate these findings.
Regio and stereochemical probes of iodine interactions in diiodocyclododecanes
Authors: Martins Francisco A. , Freitas Matheus P.
Published: May 2021

Cyclododecane preferentially adopts a square‐like geometry, giving rise to corner and edge methylene (CH2) groups, whose hydrogens assume different orientations. In edge CH2 groups, hydrogens can be inward‐ (endo) and outward‐looking (exo) the ring. Herein, we have quantum‐chemically studied the replacement of two hydrogens in cyclododecane with iodines at the relative positions 1,4, 1,5, 1,6, and 1,7. Intramolecular interactions are only slightly unfavorable in 1,7‐diiodocyclododecane containing the organic iodines in the edge/endo positions, less than expected from steric considerations. This behavior was discussed in terms of transannular interactions, and a numerical estimation for the magnitude of the intramolecular interaction energy has been performed based on an isodesmic reaction scheme and by natural energy decomposition analysis. 1,5‐Diiodocyclododecane with both edge iodines in the endo orientation (occupying opposite faces of the ring) is strongly favored (by ca. 2.0 kcal mol−1) compared to the respective monosubstituted counterparts, due to highly stabilizing hyperconjugative interactions. Although halogen bonding involving anionic species is widely known, we show that organic halogens, in particular iodine, can be useful for stereochemical control in macrocycles.
Ovarian tissue grafting: Lessons learnt from our experience with 55 grafts
Authors: Rozen Genia , Sii Stephanie , Agresta Franca , Gook Debra , Polyakov Alex , Stern Catharyn
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Uncertainties remain regarding the clinical efficacy of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and grafting. We report a retrospective analysis of reproductive outcomes and lessons learnt following 55 ovarian tissue transplant procedures at our center from 2006 to 2019.

Methods

We analyzed variables related to graft success such as tissue volume, follicular density, total follicular volume, and age on the duration of graft function.

Results

Follicular density and total follicular volume correlate positively with duration of graft function. All clinical pregnancies in our cohort occurred in women who were aged 35 or less at the time of ovarian tissue cryopreservation.

Conclusion

Graft success, as determined by eventual pregnancy and the longevity of graft function, may be impacted by factors including age at cryopreservation, follicular density, and total follicular volume.
Tobramycin Liquid Crystal Nanoparticles Eradicate Cystic Fibrosis‐Related Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilms
Authors: Thorn Chelsea R. , Carvalho‐Wodarz Cristiane de Souza , Horstmann Justus C. , Lehr Claus‐Michael , Prestidge Clive A. , Thomas Nicky
Published: May 2021

Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms cause persistent and chronic infections, most known clinically in cystic fibrosis (CF). Tobramycin (TOB) is a standard anti‐pseudomonal antibiotic; however, in biofilm infections, its efficacy severely decreases due to limited permeability across the biofilm matrix. Herewith, a biomimetic, nanostructured, lipid liquid crystal nanoparticle‐(LCNP)‐formulation is discovered to significantly enhance the efficacy of TOB and eradicate P. aeruginosa biofilm infections. Using an advanced, biologically‐relevant co‐culture model of human CF bronchial epithelial cells infected with P. aeruginosa biofilms at an air–liquid interface, nebulized TOB‐LCNPs completely eradicated 1 × 109 CFU mL−1 of P. aeruginosa after two doses, a 100‐fold improvement over the unformulated antibiotic. The enhanced activity of TOB is not observed with a liposomal formulation of TOB or with ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic that readily penetrates biofilms. It is demonstrated that the unique nanostructure of the LCNPs drives the enhanced penetration of TOB across the biofilm barrier, but not through the healthy lung epithelium barrier, significantly increasing the available antibiotic concentration at the site of infection. The LCNPs are an innovative strategy to improve the performance of TOB as a directed pulmonary therapy, enabling the administration of lower doses, reducing the toxicity, and amplifying the anti‐biofilm activity of the anti‐pseudomonal antibiotic.
Comparative Study on the Effects of Citric Acid Modification and Hydroxypropylation on the Physiochemical and Digestibility Characteristics of Acid‐Hydrolyzed Corn and Sorghum Starches
Authors: Shaikh Faiza , Ali Tahira Mohsin , Mustafa Ghulam , Hasnain Abid
Published: May 2021

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) crop is of great importance as it can be grown in drought‐hit areas. The starch extracted from sorghum has properties similar to corn (Zea mays L.) starch and is therefore considered as a productive future alternative. Starch has many technological constraints and the modifications help in improving the properties. Corn and sorghum starches are acid‐thinned prior to citric acid modification and hydroxypropylation. The acid‐hydrolyzed citrate and hydroxypropylated starches are characterized for their functional and digestibility characteristics. The modifications help in maintaining the resistant starch fraction of acid‐thinned starches. The resistant starch fraction ranges between 59–64% and 53–68% for corn and sorghum starch, respectively. The Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy results show decrease in crystalline to amorphous ratio (R = 1047 cm−1/1022 cm−1) for sorghum starch citrates. The X‐ray diffraction pattern exhibits a decrease the proportion of crystallinity of acid‐hydrolyzed esterified starches. Differential scanning calorimetry curves exhibit decreased gelatinization enthalpy for both modifications. A significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in peak viscosity is also observed for hydroxypropylated starches. The modifications increase the slowly digestible fraction of corn and sorghum starches from 12.7% to 24.4% and from 16.7% to 28.9%, respectively.
Temperature Management Methods for Selective Brain Hypothermia in Variable Metabolism
Authors: Honma Satoru , Wakamatsu Hidetoshi , She Jinhua
Published: May 2021

Brain hypothermia is widely operated to prevent peripheral healthy brain tissue from secondary damage, caused by increased brain temperature due to hypermetabolism around the damaged areas. Selective brain hypothermia is a new clinical technique of brain hypothermia for a brain disorder. Appropriate solution in a controlled temperature is directly infused into the artery to cool down a brain tissue through some catheters. While the brain temperature is controlled quickly, the body temperature has to be kept within a prescribed range by re‐warmed cerebrovascular blood return to the systemic circulation. As metabolic changes in the brain is variable due to the complex behavior of the disease state with the treatment effect. . In the present study two adaptive control methods as adaptive‐gain control and Fuzzy‐adaptive control are provided to carry out for precise temperature control for selective brain hypothermia. Several kinds of mathematical brain models with cerebrovascular damage are specially used to evaluate our temperature control methods. The effectiveness of the management of the brain temperature is demonstrated for four kinds control laws and five mathematical clinical brain models. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
How we decide what to eat: Toward an interdisciplinary model of gut–brain interactions
Authors: Plassmann Hilke , Schelski Daniela Stephanie , Simon Marie‐Christine , Koban Leonie
Published: May 2021

Everyday dietary decisions have important short‐term and long‐term consequences for health and well‐being. How do we decide what to eat, and what physiological and neurobiological systems are involved in those decisions? Here, we integrate findings from thus‐far separate literatures: (a) the cognitive neuroscience of dietary decision‐making, and (b) growing evidence of gut–brain interactions and especially influences of the gut microbiome on diet and health outcomes. We review findings that suggest that dietary decisions and food consumption influence nutrient sensing, homeostatic signaling in the gut, and the composition of the gut microbiome. In turn, the microbiome can influence host health and behavior. Through reward signaling pathways, the microbiome could potentially affect food and drink decisions. Such bidirectional links between gut microbiome and the brain systems underlying dietary decision‐making may lead to self‐reinforcing feedback loops that determine long‐term dietary patterns, body mass, and health outcomes.

This article is categorized under:

Economics > Individual Decision‐Making

Psychology > Brain Function and Dysfunction

Psychology > Reasoning and Decision Making
Scenarios for offshore wind power production for Central California Call Areas
Authors: Wang Yi‐Hui , Walter Ryan K. , White Crow , Kehrli Matthew D. , Ruttenberg Benjamin
Published: May 2021

In response to the growing interest in offshore wind energy development in California, the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management delineated three Call Areas for potential leasing. This study provides a comprehensive characterization and comparison of offshore wind power potential within the two Central California Call Areas (Diablo Canyon and Morro Bay) using 12‐ and 15‐MW turbines under different inter‐turbine spacing and wind farm size scenarios. Our analysis shows similar daily and seasonal patterns of wind power produced within the Call Areas, which peak in spring and during evening hours. Per‐turbine power production is higher in the Morro Bay Call Area due to slightly higher hub‐height wind speeds, whereas total power production is higher in the Diablo Canyon Call Area due to its larger size. Turbine type had a negligible impact on average power production per‐unit‐area because while larger turbines produce more power, they require greater inter‐turbine spacing. Combined power production from the two fully built out Call Areas could equal nearly a quarter of California's current annual electrical energy production. A commercial‐scale wind farm with a realized power output of 960 MW would require a footprint of at least half of the Morro Bay Call Area or at least a quarter of the Diablo Canyon Call Area. These results provide guidance on offshore wind development over the Central California Coast, and the framework demonstrated here could be applied to other wind data sets in other regions.
Toxicological impacts of roadway deicers on aquatic resources and human health: A review
Authors: Honarvar Nazari Mehdi , Mousavi S. Zeinab , Potapova Anna , McIntyre Jenifer , Shi Xianming
Published: May 2021

During winter, snow and ice on roads in regions with cold weather can increase traffic crashes and casualties, resulting in travel delays and financial burdens to society. Anti‐icing or deicing the roads can serve a cost‐effective method to significantly reduce such risks. Although traditionally the main priorities of winter road maintenance (WRM) have been level of service, cost‐effectiveness, and corrosion reduction, it is increasingly clear that understanding the environmental impacts of deicers is vital. One of the most important problems in this regard is environmental contamination caused by cumulative use of deicers, which has many detrimental effects on the aquatic systems. Among the deicers, the chloride‐based ones raise the most toxicological concerns because they are highly soluble, can migrate quickly in the environment and have cumulative effects over time. In this review, we summarize and organize existing data, including the latest findings about the adverse effects of deicers on surface water and groundwater, aquatic species, and human health, and identify future research priorities. In addition, the data provided can be used to develop a framework for quantifying some of the variables that stakeholders and agencies use when preparing guidelines and standards for WRM programs.

Practitioner points

Pollution from the increasing use of roadway deicers may have detrimental effects on the environment.

Of particular concern are the acute and cumulative risks that chloride salts pose to aquatic species.

Chloride salts are water‐soluble, very difficult to remove, highly mobile, and non‐degradable.

Deicers cause water stratification, change the chemicophysical properties of water, and affect aquatic species and human health.

Current guidelines may not be appropriate for environmental protection and need to be revised.
Superconformal index of low-rank gauge theories via the Bethe Ansatz
Authors: Benini Francesco , Rizi Giovanni
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We study the Bethe Ansatz formula for the superconformal index, in the case of 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 super-Yang-Mills with gauge group SU(N). We observe that not all solutions to the Bethe Ansatz Equations (BAEs) contribute to the index, and thus formulate “reduced BAEs” such that all and only their solutions contribute. We then propose, sharpening a conjecture of Arabi Ardehali et al. [1], that there is a one-to-one correspondence between branches of solutions to the reduced BAEs and vacua of the 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1* theory. We test the proposal in the case of SU(2) and SU(3). In the case of SU(3), we confirm that there is a continuous family of solutions, whose contribution to the index is non-vanishing.
Correction to: Clinical benefit of glasdegib plus low-dose cytarabine in patients with de novo and secondary acute myeloid leukemia: long-term analysis of a phase II randomized trial
Authors: Heuser Michael , Smith B. Douglas , Fiedler Walter , Sekeres Mikkael A. , Montesinos Pau , Leber Brian , Merchant Akil , Papayannidis Cristina , Pérez-Simón José A. , Hoang Caroline J. , O’Brien Thomas , Ma Weidong Wendy , Zeremski Mirjana , O’Connell Ashleigh , Chan Geoffrey , Cortes Jorge E.
Published: May 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00277-021-04545-5
Passively Q-switched 8.5-ns Pr3+:YLF laser at 640 nm
Authors: Badtke Moritz , Tanaka Hiroki , Ollenburg Lenn J. , Kalusniak Sascha , Kränkel Christian
Published: May 2021

We report on short pulse generation from a passively Q-switched Pr3+:LiYF4 laser operating at 640 nm. By reducing the cavity length and utilizing Co:MgAl2O4 as the saturable absorber, we obtain the shortest pulse durations from any Q-switched Pr3+ laser. Under pumping with a frequency-doubled optically pumped semiconductor laser at a wavelength of 479.05 nm we realized (8.5 ± 1) ns long pulses at a repetition rate of 0.78 MHz from a 7.5 mm long cavity at an average output power of 1.0 W. In that case, the laser pulse energy and duration were 1.3 µJ and 8.5 ns, respectively. The highest pulse energy amounts to 1.8 µJ at a pulse peak power of 0.19 kW in 9.2 ns pulses at a repetition rate of 0.48 MHz.
Survival advantage of Asian metastatic prostate cancer patients treated with external beam radiotherapy over other races/ethnicities
Authors: Würnschimmel Christoph , Wenzel Mike , Collà Ruvolo Claudia , Nocera Luigi , Tian Zhe , Saad Fred , Briganti Alberto , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Mandel Philipp , Chun Felix K. H. , Tilki Derya , Graefen Markus , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To assess the effect of race/ethnicity in cancer-specific mortality (CSM) adjusted for other-cause mortality (OCM) in metastatic prostate cancer patients (mPCa) treated with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) to the prostate.

Methods

We relied on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to identify Caucasian, African-American, Hispanic/Latino and Asian mPCa patients treated by EBRT between 2004 and 2016. Cumulative incidence plots displayed CSM after adjustment for OCM according to race/ethnicity. Propensity score matching accounted for patient age, prostate-specific antigen, clinical T and N stages, Gleason Grade Groups and M1 substages. OCM adjusted multivariable analyses tested for differences in CSM in African-Americans, Hispanic/Latinos and Asians relative to Cauacasians.

Results

After 3:1 propensity score matching and OCM adjustment, Asians exhibited lower CSM at 60 and 120 months (48.2 and 60.0%, respectively) compared to Caucasians (66.7 and 79.4%, respectively, p < 0.001). In OCM adjusted multivariable analyses, Asian race/ethnicity was associated with lower CSM (HR 0.66, CI 0.52–0.83, p < 0.001). Conversely, African-American and Hispanic/Latino race/ethnicity did not affect CSM. OCM rates were comparable between examined races/ethnicities.

Conclusion

In the setting of mPCa treated with EBRT, Asians exhibit lower CSM than Caucasians, African-Americans and Hispanic/Latinos. This observation may warrant consideration in prognostic stratification schemes for newly diagnosed mPCa patients.
Strukturmerkmale und Voraussetzungen zur ambulanten Implantation von implantierbaren Defibrillatoren, Geräten zur kardialen Resynchronisation und Ereignisrekordern
Authors: Helms Thomas M. , Bosch Ralph , Hansen Claudius , Willhöft Cord , Zippel-Schultz Bettina , Karle Christoph , Schwab Jörg Otto
Published: May 2021

Die Möglichkeiten der ambulanten Implantation von Defibrillatoren, Geräten zur kardialen Resynchronisation und Ereignisrekordern („cardiac implantable electronic devices“, CIEDs) gewinnen zunehmend an Bedeutung. In Deutschland existieren aktuell vereinzelte Möglichkeiten zur ambulanten Implantation. Es fehlt allerdings an einheitlichen, anerkannten und verbindlichen Qualitätskriterien sowie an Grundzügen vertraglicher Gestaltungen. Der vorliegende Artikel stellt einen Einblick in die aktuellen Vertragskonstellationen zur ambulanten Operation bereit und definiert ein erstes, holistisches Qualitätskonzept für ambulante Implantationen von CIEDs. Im Zentrum steht das Ziel, einen Diskurs in der Fachgesellschaft anzustoßen, um ein abgestimmtes, verbindliches Qualitätskonzept zu definieren. Dieses sollte als Grundlage für zukünftige Leistungen der ambulanten Implantation dienen, die Leistungen vergleichbar machen und einen Beitrag zum langfristigen Nachweis der Evidenz leisten.
Introduction of a Scaling Factor for Fracture Toughness Measurement of Rocks Using the Semi-circular Bend Test
Authors: Ghouli Saeid , Bahrami Bahador , Ayatollahi Majid R. , Driesner Thomas , Nejati Morteza
Published: May 2021

This article discusses the scale dependence of the mode $$\mathrm {I}$$
I
fracture toughness of rocks measured via the semi-circular bend (SCB) test. An extensive set of experiments is conducted to scrutinise the fracture toughness variations with size for three distinct rock types with radii ranging from 25 to 300 mm. The lengths of the fracture process zone (FPZ) for different sample sizes are measured using the digital image correlation (DIC) technique. A theoretical model is also established that relates the value of fracture toughness to the sample size. This theorem is based on the strip-yield model to estimate the length of FPZ, and the energy release rate concept to relate the FPZ length to the fracture toughness. This theoretical model does not rely on any experimental-based curve-fitting parameter, but only on the tensile strength of the rock type as well as the fracture toughness at a specific sample size. The size effects predicted by the theoretical model is in a good agreement with the experimental data on both fracture toughness and the FPZ length. Finally, theoretical correction factors are introduced for various geometrical configurations of the SCB specimen, using which a scale-independent mode $$\mathrm {I}$$
I
fracture toughness of the rock material can be estimated from the results of experiments performed on small samples.
Emergence of complex dynamics of choice due to repeated exposures to extinction learning
Authors: Donoso José R. , Packheiser Julian , Pusch Roland , Lederer Zhiyin , Walther Thomas , Uengoer Metin , Lachnit Harald , Güntürkün Onur , Cheng Sen
Published: May 2021

Extinction learning, the process of ceasing an acquired behavior in response to altered reinforcement contingencies, is not only essential for survival in a changing environment, but also plays a fundamental role in the treatment of pathological behaviors. During therapy and other forms of training involving extinction, subjects are typically exposed to several sessions with a similar structure. The effects of this repeated exposure are not well understood. Here, we studied the behavior of pigeons across several sessions of a discrimination-learning task in context A, extinction in context B, and a return to context A to test the context-dependent return of the learned responses (ABA renewal). By focusing on individual learning curves across animals, we uncovered a session-dependent variability of behavior: (1) during extinction, pigeons preferred the unrewarded alternative choice in one-third of the sessions, predominantly during the first one. (2) In later sessions, abrupt transitions of behavior at the onset of context B emerged, and (3) the renewal effect decayed as sessions progressed. We show that the observed results can be parsimoniously accounted for by a computational model based only on associative learning between stimuli and actions. Our work thus demonstrates the critical importance of studying the trial-by-trial dynamics of learning in individual sessions, and the power of “simple” associative learning processes.