bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolomic Study of Normal and Modified Nucleosides in the Urine of Mice with Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Sepsis by LC–MS/MS
Authors: Ji Moongi , Lee Hyeon‐Seong , Kim Youngbae , Seo Chan , Oh Songjin , Jung In Duk , Park Jae‐Hyun , Paik Man‐Jeong
Published: February 2021

Endogenous normal and modified nucleosides have been studied as potential biomarkers of various inflammatory diseases including sepsis. However, no systematic nucleoside profiling and pattern analysis study has been performed in sepsis. In this study, simultaneous liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry profiling of normal and modified nucleosides was performed to characterize altered nucleoside metabolism in sepsis mice.
The antecedents of employees' voluntary proenvironmental behavior at work in developing countries: The role of employee affective commitment and organizational support
Authors: Saifulina Nailya , Carballo‐Penela Adolfo , Ruzo‐Sanmartin Emilio
Published: February 2021

Employees can contribute to organizational greening by engaging in green behaviors voluntarily. This work examines the role of four antecedents from an organizational context in the promotion of employees' voluntary pro‐environmental behavior at work: job satisfaction, perceived organizational support, employee affective commitment (EAC), and perceived organizational environmental support (POES), which are directly and indirectly related to voluntary pro‐environmental behavior at work. We also test the moderating effect of POES. We empirically test the proposed hypotheses using SEM with a sample of 331 banking employees from two countries, Ecuador and Kazakhstan. Results demonstrate statistically significant relationships between the proposed antecedents of voluntary pro‐environmental behavior at work, showing the mediating role of EAC, as well as the moderating role of POES.
Anlotinib for previously treated advanced or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: A double‐blind randomized phase 2 trial
Authors: Huang Jing , Xiao Juxiang , Fang Wentao , Lu Ping , Fan Qingxia , Shu Yongqian , Feng Jifeng , Zhang Shu , Ba Yi , Zhao Yang , Liu Ying , Bai Chunmei , Bai Yuxian , Tang Yong , Song Yan , He Jie
Published: February 2021

Background

Currently, there are no randomized trials on the effect of antiangiogenic therapy in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The following study investigated the efficacy and safety of anlotinib in patients with advanced ESCC who were previously treated with chemotherapy.

Methods

This randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind phase 2 trial (NCT02649361) was conducted in 13 Chinese hospitals. Eligible patients were adults with histologically confirmed recurrent or metastatic ESCC who were previously treated with chemotherapy, and were randomly assigned (2:1) to receive oral anlotinib 12 mg or placebo on days 1–14 (repeated every 21 days). The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS).

Results

One hundred and sixty‐five patients were randomly assigned to the anlotinib (n = 110) or the placebo (n = 55) arm. Median PFS was 3.02 months (95% CI 2.63–3.65) in the anlotinib group and 1.41 months (95% CI 1.38–1.41) in the placebo group (hazard ratio 0.46 [95% CI 0.32–0.66]; p < 0.001). The most common treatment‐related adverse events of grade 3 or 4 were hypertension (17 [16%] patients), decreased appetite (6 [6%] patients), and hyponatremia (4 [4%] patients) in the anlotinib group and decreased appetite (2 [4%] patients) in the placebo group. Three (3%) deaths in the anlotinib group were considered as drug related, while there were no treatment‐related deaths in the placebo group.

Conclusions

The use of anlotinib in previously treated, recurrent, or metastatic ESCC patients significantly improved PFS compared with placebo. Our findings suggest that antiangiogenesis might be an important therapeutic target in advanced ESCC.

Clinical Trials Registration

Study of Anlotinib in Patients With Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (ALTER1102), NCT02649361.
An interventional approach to left ventricular assist device outflow graft obstruction
Authors: Gertz Zachary M. , Trankle Cory R. , Grizzard John D. , Quader Mohammed A. , Medalion Benjamin , Parris Kendall E. , Shah Keyur B.
Published: February 2021

Background

LVADs provide life‐sustaining treatment for patients with heart failure, but their complexity allows for complications. One complication, LVAD outflow graft obstruction, may be misdiagnosed as intraluminal thrombus, when more often it is extraluminal compression from biodebris accumulation. It can often be treated endovascularly with stenting. This case series describes diagnostic and procedural techniques for the treatment of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) outflow graft obstruction.

Methods

We present four patients with LVADs who developed LVAD outflow graft obstruction within the bend relief‐covered segment. All were initially diagnosed with computed tomographic angiography (CTA). All underwent invasive evaluation with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), then were treated with stenting. After misdiagnosing a twist, we developed the technique of balloon “graftoplasty” to ensure suitability for stent delivery in subsequent cases.

Results

All patients presented with low‐flow alarms and symptoms of low output, and were diagnosed with outflow graft obstruction by CTA. In all four, IVUS confirmed an extraluminal etiology. Patient 1 was treated with stenting and had a good outcome. Patient 2's obstruction was from twisting, rather than biodebris accumulation, and had sub‐optimal stent expansion and ultimately required surgery. Balloon “graftoplasty” was used in subsequent cases to ensure subsequent stent expansion. Patients 3 and 4 were successfully stented. All improved after treatment.

Conclusions

In patients with LVAD outflow graft obstruction, IVUS can distinguish intraluminal thrombus from extraluminal compression. Balloon “graftoplasty” can ensure that the outflow graft will respond to stenting. Many cases of LVAD outflow graft obstruction should be amenable to endovascular treatment.
Entecavir administration to pregnant Japanese woman with chronic hepatitis B and hepatocellular carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Kakiuchi Toshihiko , Takahashi Hirokazu , Iwane Shinji , Koji Azusa , Matsuo Muneaki
Published: February 2021

Women taking entecavir hydrate (ETV) may not need to consider abortion in the event of an unexpected pregnancy. If a woman with renal dysfunction and taking ETV for chronic hepatitis B becomes pregnant, continuous use of ETV may also be tolerated.
Three‐dimensional mapping discovered arrhythmic substrate missed in the initial diagnosis of idiopathic ventricular fibrillation
Authors: Harano Yoshihiro , Masuda Keita , Inoue Shunsuke , Iioka Yuto , Kowase Shinya , Osada Jun , Yumoto Kazuhiko
Published: February 2021

During an initial diagnosis of IVF, an arrhythmic substrate may be missed for several reasons such as lack of information; thus, a careful follow‐up is important. A three‐dimensional mapping may identify a possible missed arrhythmic substrate in IVF.
Labor induction in pregnancy complicated by myelodysplastic syndrome: A case report
Authors: Peng Changsheng , Cui Tao , Yao Qiang
Published: February 2021

Pregnancy may aggravate myelodysplastic syndrome. Cross‐matched platelets can be used in cases of refractory thrombocytopenia. Vaginal delivery can be attempted if the platelet count is at least 20 × 109/L.
Connectivity‐informed adaptive regularization for generalized outcomes
Authors: Brzyski Damian , Karas Marta , M Ances Beau , Dzemidzic Mario , Goñi Joaquín , W Randolph Timothy , Harezlak Jaroslaw
Published: February 2021

One of the challenging problems in neuroimaging is the principled incorporation of information from different imaging modalities. Data from each modality are frequently analyzed separately using, for instance, dimensionality reduction techniques, which result in a loss of mutual information. We propose a novel regularization method, generalized ridgified Partially Empirical Eigenvectors for Regression (griPEER), to estimate associations between the brain structure features and a scalar outcome within the generalized linear regression framework. griPEER improves the regression coefficient estimation by providing a principled approach to use external information from the structural brain connectivity. Specifically, we incorporate a penalty term, derived from the structural connectivity Laplacian matrix, in the penalized generalized linear regression. In this work, we address both theoretical and computational issues and demonstrate the robustness of our method despite incomplete information about the structural brain connectivity. In addition, we also provide a significance testing procedure for performing inference on the estimated coefficients. Finally, griPEER is evaluated both in extensive simulation studies and using clinical data to classify HIV+ and HIV−individuals.
Is coronary multivessel disease in acute myocardial infarction patients still associated with worse clinical outcomes at 1‐year?
Authors: Puymirat Etienne , Nakache Ariel , Saint Etienne Christophe , Marcollet Pierre , Fichaux Olivier , Decomis Marie‐Pascale , Chassaing Stephan , Commeau Philippe , Danchin Nicolas , Cayla Guillaume , Montalescot Gilles , Benamer Hakim , Koning Rene , Motreff Pascal , Rangé Grégoire
Published: February 2021

Background

ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with multivessel disease (MVD) are associated with a worse prognosis. However, few comparisons are available according to coronary status in the era of modern reperfusion and optimized secondary prevention.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that the difference in prognosis according to number of vessel disease in STEMI patients has reduced.

Methods

All consecutive STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) within 24 h of symptoms onset between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2016 enrolled in the CRAC (Club Régional des Angioplasticiens de la région Centre) France PCI registry were analyzed. Baseline characteristics, management, and outcomes at 1‐year were analyzed according to coronary status (one‐, two‐, and three‐VD).

Results

A total of 1886 patients (mean age 62.2 ± 14.0 year; 74% of male) were included. Patients with MVD (two or three‐VD) represented 53.7%. They were older with higher cardiovascular risk factor profile. At 1 year, the rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, defined as all‐cause death, stroke or re‐MI) was 10%, 12%, and 12% in one‐, two, and three‐VD respectively (p = .28). In multivariable adjusted Cox proportional hazard regression model, two‐ and three‐VD were not associated with higher rate of MACE compared to patients with single VD (HR, 1.09; 95%CI 0.76–1.56 for two‐VD; HR, 0.74; 95%CI 0.48–1.14 for three‐VD).

Conclusions

MVD still represents an important proportion of STEMI patients but their prognoses were not associated with worse clinical outcomes at 1‐year compared with one‐VD patients in a modern reperfusion area and secondary medication prevention.
Plasmid DNA‐Based Bioluminescence‐Activated System for Photodynamic Therapy in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Fan Di , Wang Ting , Hu Jinhui , Zhou Lin , Zhou Jiahong , Wei Shaohua
Published: February 2021

The low depth of tissue penetration by therapeutic light sources severely restricts photodynamic therapy (PDT) in treating deep‐seated tumors. Using a luciferase/d‐luciferin bioluminescence system to artificially create internal light sources in cells instead of external light sources is an effective means of solving the above problems. However, high‐efficiency bioluminescence requires a higher concentration of luciferase in the cell, which poses a considerable challenge to the existing system of enzyme loading, delivery, activity and retention of drugs, and dramatically increases the cost of treatment. We loaded the substrate D‐luciferin, and the photosensitizer hypericin into a polyethyleneimine (PEI)‐modified nano‐calcium phosphate (CaP) to solve this problem. Subsequently, the plasmid DNA containing the luciferase gene was loaded onto it using the high‐density positive charge characteristic of PEI from the nanodrug (denoted DHDC). After the DHDC enters the tumor cell, it collapses and releases the plasmid DNA, which uses the intracellular protein synthesis system to continuously and massively express luciferase. Using endogenous ATP, Mg2+, and O2 in cells, luciferase oxidizes d‐luciferin and produces luminescence. The luminescence triggers hypericin excitation to generate ROS and kill cancer cells. This study provides a new strategy for the application of bioluminescence in PDT treatment.
The Acid/Base Characterization of Molecules with Epigenetic Activity
Authors: Santibáñez‐Morán Marisa G. , Medina‐Franco José L.
Published: February 2021

The acidic and basic functional groups in a molecule strongly influence its physicochemical properties, affinity for a macromolecule, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity. For instance, basicity has been correlated with molecular promiscuity, hERG blockade, and phospholipidosis. Nonetheless, no systematic characterization of the acid/base profile of epigenomic databases has been reported. This study describes an analysis of the acidic ionization constant distribution of a library of 7820 compounds with reported activity against epigenetic targets. Furthermore, the epigenomics database's acid/base profile was compared to the reference libraries of food chemicals, natural products, and approved drugs. It was found that the acid/base profile of histone lysine demethylase ligands is more similar to previously approved drugs, and histone acetyltransferase ligands have acidic and basic functional groups largely found in food chemicals and natural products; this support the potential of these libraries for finding new epigenetic inhibitors.
Improved hybrid cuckoo black widow optimization with interval type 2 fuzzy logic system for energy‐efficient clustering protocol
Authors: Sheriba S.T. , Hevin Rajesh D.
Published: February 2021

Recently, due to its excellent performance with the limited resources the wireless sensor network (WSN) is a challenging research area. The WSN consists of the number of nodes and power resources with limited energy parameters, but it comprises few difficulties. The energy‐efficient distributed clustering (HEED) is an efficient routing protocol in recent years. This paper proposes IHCBW with interval type 2 fuzzy logic system‐based HEED (IIT2FLS‐HEED) method. We used the combination of cuckoo search (CS) and improved black widow optimization (IBWO) algorithms (IHCBW) for the selection of optimal residual energy selection. The optimal cluster heads (CHs) are chosen with the help of the interval type 2 fuzzy logic system (IT2FLS). Experimentally, the NS2 software handles the entire proposed work and its performance is evaluated with different kinds of performance evaluation. Moreover, 20 benchmark functions are used to validate the performance of the IHCBW algorithm. Finally, the proposed IIT2FLS‐HEED demonstrates better performance results in terms of homogenous, second, and third stage heterogeneous WSN.
A posterior transition probability‐based model for spectrum sensing in cognitive radio networks for maximized network lifetime and performance enhancement
Authors: Thareja Yogita , Sharma Kamal Kumar
Published: February 2021

Demand of cognitive radio technology and wireless sensor network is increasing in various applications. Currently, the combined cognitive wireless sensor networks have gained attraction by research community due to their extensive applications and advantages. The wireless sensor networks operate in ISM bands where managing the available spectrum is considered as a crucial task. Moreover, the sensor networks are deployed in harsh environment and equipped with limited power supply; hence, replacement of power source is not possible. Hence, efficient spectrum sensing and lifetime management are the challenging task in Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks (CRSNs). In this work, we present a combined approach to enhance the network enactment, i.e., network lifetime, energy depletion, and packet delivery with a novel spectrum sensing approach. In order to handle the issue of energy utilization, we introduce inter‐ and intra‐cluster communication model along with a clustering algorithm. Further, we present a posterior transition probability‐based model for spectrum sensing. We present an experimental study where we measure the network enactment in context of alive node, dead node, enduring energy, and packet to the base station. The experimental study shows that average spectrum sensing performance is obtained as 0.9030, 0.9188, 0.9213, 0.9355, and 0.9628 by using DE, FMODE, NSGA, ODE, and proposed approach, respectively. Experimental analysis shows that proposed approach archives better performance when compared with advanced methods.
Pain, eating behavior, and weight outcomes in adolescent girls
Authors: Goldschmidt Andrea B. , Smith Kathryn E. , Bond Dale S. , Hipwell Alison E. , Stepp Stephanie D. , Keenan Kate
Published: February 2021

Objective

In adults, pain is prospectively associated with overweight/obesity and concurrently associated with dysregulated eating, with evidence for stronger associations in women than men. This study aimed to evaluate whether similar associations among pain response, BMI, and loss of control (LOC) eating are also evident in adolescent girls.

Method

Girls (n = 202) completed the cold pressor test (CPT) at age 10, and BMI and LOC eating were assessed annually from ages 10–16 years. Generalized linear models were used to test associations between pain tolerance (total immersion time) and threshold (latency to highest pain rating), and changes in BMI and LOC eating.

Results

Lower pain tolerance and threshold at age 10 were associated with increases in LOC eating from age 10 to 16 (tolerance: B < −.01, SE < .01, p = .005; threshold: B = −.03, SE = .01, p = .0118). No significant associations were observed between pain tolerance/threshold and increasing BMI.

Discussion

Pain responsivity in childhood is associated with increases in dysregulated eating from childhood to adolescence. These findings provide support for the early development of an interface between pain and eating behaviors.
Differential geographic patterns in song components of male Albert’s lyrebirds
Authors: Backhouse Fiona , Dalziell Anastasia H. , Magrath Robert D. , Rice Aaron N. , Crisologo Taylor L. , Welbergen Justin A.
Published: February 2021

Geographic variation in bird song has received much attention in evolutionary studies, yet few consider components within songs that may be subject to different constraints and follow different evolutionary trajectories. Here, we quantify patterns of geographic variation in the socially transmitted “whistle” song of Albert's lyrebirds (Menura alberti), an oscine passerine renowned for its remarkable vocal abilities. Albert's lyrebirds are confined to narrow stretches of suitable habitat in Australia, allowing us to map likely paths of cultural transmission using a species distribution model and least cost paths. We use quantitative methods to divide the songs into three components present in all study populations: the introductory elements, the song body, and the final element. We compare geographic separation between populations with variation in these components as well as the full song. All populations were distinguishable by song, and songs varied according to the geographic distance between populations. However, within songs, only the introductory elements and song body could be used to distinguish among populations. The song body and final element changed with distance, but the introductory elements varied independently of geographic separation. These differing geographic patterns of within‐song variation are unexpected, given that the whistle song components are always produced in the same sequence and may be perceived as a temporally discrete unit. Knowledge of such spatial patterns of within‐song variation enables further work to determine possible selective pressures and constraints acting on each song component and provides spatially explicit targets for preserving cultural diversity. As such, our study highlights the importance for science and conservation of investigating spatial patterns within seemingly discrete behavioral traits at multiple levels of organization.
Rapid and scalable fabrication of ultra‐stretchable, anti‐freezing conductive gels by cononsolvency effect
Authors: Wu Shuwang , Alsaid Yousif , Yao Bowen , Yan Yichen , Zhao Yusen , Hua Mutian , Wu Dong , Zhu Xinyuan , He Ximin
Published: February 2021

With the emergence of soft electronic devices, the requirements for conductive soft materials are unprecedentedly high. Among various soft materials, hydrogels are gaining tremendous attention for their superior softness, wetness, responsiveness, and biocompatibility. However, hydrogels inevitably lose elasticity and ionic conductivity at subzero temperature because of water freezing in the polymer matrices, severely limiting applications at low temperatures. Herein, we propose a rapid fabrication strategy to produce anti‐freezing conductive gels with poly(vinyl alcohol) on a large scale within minutes (vs hours/days in conventional methods) using a water/DMSO binary liquid system, which serves as gelation inducer via cononsolvency and anti‐freezing solvents simultaneously. The gel with 60 wt% DMSO shows the best anti‐freezing performance, remaining unfrozen at temperatures lower than −50°C, while also maintaining the highest mechanical properties with a tensile strength of 1.1 MPa, toughness of 10.9 MJ/m3, and elongation of 1500% outperforming the most previous reports. After incorporating H2SO4, the gels exhibit a high ionic conductivity of 5.25 S/m and maintain 1.65 S/m even at −50°C. Furthermore, an all‐in‐one supercapacitor is fabricated to demonstrate the potential of the anti‐freezing gel in soft device applications with good performance at subzero temperatures. A full recyclability of the material was also demonstrated.

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A Simple Method for Developing a Hand‐Drawn Paper‐Based Sensor for Mercury; Using Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles and Smartphone as a Hand‐Held‐Device for Colorimetric Assay
Authors: Mavaei Maryamosadat , Chahardoli Azam , Fattahi Ali , Khoshroo Alireza
Published: February 2021

Mercury ions are highly toxic at trace levels, and its pollution has posed a significant threat to the environment and public health, where current detection methods mainly require laborious operation and expensive instrumentation. Herein, a simple, cost‐effective, instrument‐free approach for selective detection of Hg2+ based on a hand‐drawn paper‐based naked‐eye colorimetric device is developed. To develop a hand‐drawn paper‐based device, a crayon is used to build hydrophobic barriers and a paper puncher is applied to obtain patterns as a sensing zone. A green method for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is applied using Achillea Wilhelmsii (Aw) extract. The sensing ability of Aw‐AgNPs toward Hg2+ is investigated in both solution‐phase and paper substrate loaded with Aw‐AgNPs using colorimetric methods. For the paper‐based sensor, the quantification of the target relies on the visual readout of a color‐changed sensing zone modified with Aw‐AgNPs. Under optimal conditions, the color of Aw‐AgNPs in aqueous solution and on the coated paper substrate can change from brown to colorless upon addition of target, with a detection limit of 28 × 10−9 m and 0.30 × 10−6 m, respectively. In conclusion, the present study indicates the potential of this hand‐drawn eco‐friendly paper‐based sensor for monitoring of mercury.
Petrogenesis and tectonic evolution of the Palaeozoic to Mesozoic Niuxinshan granitoids in the North Qilian orogen, NW China
Authors: Yang Fan , Xue Fei , Santosh M. , Qian Zesheng , Zhang Cun , Tu Jiarun
Published: February 2021

Numerous granitoid suites exposed in the Qilian orogen, NE Tibetan Plateau preserve important records of the tectonic evolution of this orogen. Here we present zircon U–Pb, zircon rare earth elements (REEs), and whole‐rock geochemical and Sr–Nd–Hf isotopic data on Niuxinshan granitoids in the North Qilian orogen, with a view to constrain their petrogenesis and timing of emplacement, as well as to gain new insights into the Early Palaeozoic tectonic evolution of the Qilian orogen. Zircon U–Pb data show multiple concordant ages of ~517, 455–425, 397–389, and 351–319 Ma for syenogranite, and ages of ~758 and 724 Ma together with some scattered Early Mesozoic discordant ages for porphyritic granite, suggesting episodic magmatism from Neoproterozoic to Early Mesozoic. Zircon ∑REEs range from 276.43 to 4,582.32 ppm, and are characterized by depletion of light REEs (LREEs) and enrichment heavy REEs (HREEs) with negative Eu anomalies, indicating a mixture of magmatic and hydrothermal zircons. Whole‐rock geochemical data show similar variation of LREEs, large‐ion lithophile elements (LILEs), HREEs, and high‐field‐strength elements (HFSEs) with zircon REEs, with Eu, Ba, P, and Ti negative anomalies and Rb, U, and Pb positive anomalies. Based on their formation ages, two groups of granitoids are identified. Group I rocks (Early Palaeozoic) are represented by I‐type granites whereas Group II rocks (Early Mesozoic) are of S‐type. Whole‐rock Sr–Nd–Hf isotopes display (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios of 0.707085–0.709591, εNd(t) values of −5.3 to −2.3, εHf(t) values of −2.2 to 0, and two‐stage model (Nd and Hf) ages of 1.6–1.4 Ga for Group I rocks, and of 0.728156–0.734113, −9.4 to −9.3, −10.6 to −6.9, and 2.1–1.9 Ga for Group II rocks. Accordingly, we infer that the magma for Group I was sourced from the partial melting of basaltic protoliths in the mafic lower crust and underwent fractional crystallization. Group II was derived from metasedimentary protoliths through reworking of ancient Palaeoproterozoic crustal components. Integrating the results from this study with those from previous studies on Niuxinshan granitoids, we argue that the southward subduction model of the North Qilian Ocean beneath the Qilian Block during the Early Palaeozoic might be a more reasonable scenario. However, the Early Mesozoic magmatic event reported here remains equivocal in the North Qilian orogen.
Long‐term antidepressant use in a cohort of older people
Authors: O'Neill Aoife , McFarland John , Kelly Dervla
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Depression is the most common mental health problem in older adults and untreated is associated with significant burden of illness for patients. This study aimed to examine longitudinal patterns of antidepressant use in older adults and determine which factors were associated with changes in use.

Methods

Adults aged 50 and over, from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), who participated at any one of the four TILDA waves (n = 8175) were included in the analysis. Repeated measures latent class analysis (RMLCA) is the model‐based approach we used to identify underlying subgroups in a population.

Results

We found antidepressant use ranged from 6% to 10%, over a 6‐year period. RMLCA identified three distinct classes of antidepressant use. Notably, 6% of older adults were categorised in a ‘long‐term antidepressant use’ class, with consistent use across all four waves, and 6% were categorised in an ‘Intermittent/Developing Use’ class. We found long‐term antidepressant use to be a characteristic of older adults with chronic conditions at baseline of study and striking low uptake of psychological and psychiatric services.

Conclusions

These findings provide evidence of the complex presentations of depression with comorbidities in long‐term antidepressant users. While prolonged use of antidepressants in an older cohort is often rationalised due to recurrent depression and comorbidities, this study suggests little deprescribing of antidepressants and a need for greater access and provision of psychological services tailored to later life seem necessary improve management of this condition.
Rapid recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma at a lymphocele after nephroureterectomy: A rare case report
Authors: Ogawa Kosuke , Shimizu Yousuke , Uketa Shoko , Utsunomiya Noriaki , Asai Satsuki , Ishihara Misa , Hashimoto Kimio , Kanamaru Sojun
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Lymphoceles are sometimes formed after pelvic lymph node dissection. However, recurrence at lymphoceles has not been reported previously. Here, we report a case of rapid prognosis of the recurrence at a lymphocele after nephroureterectomy.

Case presentation

A 78‐year‐old man underwent retroperitoneoscopic radical nephroureterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy for left ureteral urothelial carcinoma. The histopathological diagnosis was high‐grade invasive urothelial carcinoma with squamous differentiation. Follow‐up computed tomography at 3 months postoperatively showed a lymphocele with a small solid component, in the left pelvic region. At 7 months postoperatively, he presented with severe fatigue, and computed tomography showed a solid tumor had replaced the lymphocele. Computed tomography‐guided biopsy was performed and histopathological diagnosis was squamous cell carcinoma.

Conclusion

This report provides support for possible recurrence at the lymphocele after nephroureterectomy. If lymphocele occurs after surgery for malignant disease, it is recommended to follow up with the possibility of recurrence in the lymphatic cysts in mind.
Early on‐demand drainage or standard management for acute pancreatitis patients with acute necrotic collections and persistent organ failure: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ke Lu , Dong Xiaowu , Chen Tao , Doig Gordon S. , Li Gang , Ye Bo , Zhou Jing , Xiao Xiaojia , Tong Zhihui , Li Weiqin ,   for the Chinese Acute Pancreatitis Clinical Trials Group (CAPCTG)
Published: February 2021

Background/Purpose

The current standard care for acute pancreatitis with acute necrotic collections (ANC) is to postpone invasive intervention for 4 weeks when indicated. However, in patients with persistent organ failure (POF), this delayed approach may prolong organ failure. In this study, we aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of earlier drainage for acute pancreatitis patients with ANC and POF.

Methods

A single‐center, randomized controlled trial was conducted. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to either the early on‐demand (EOD) group or the standard management (SM) group. Within 21 days of randomization, early drainage was triggered by unremitted or worsening organ failure in the EOD group. The primary endpoint was a composite of major complications/death during 90‐days follow‐up.

Results

Thirty patients were randomized. Within 21 days of randomization, eight of the 15 patients (53%) in the EOD group underwent percutaneous drainage compared to four of the 15 patients (27%) in the SM group (P = 0.26). The primary outcome occurred in three of the 15 (20%) patients in the EOD group and seven of the 15(46.7%) in the controls (P = 0.25, relative risk 0.43, 95%CI 0.14 to 1.35).

Conclusions

Although the EOD approach did not result in significant differences between groups, the primary outcome assessed in this trial demonstrated the potential for clinical benefits favoring early drainage.
Quantification of 1.5 T T1 and T2* Relaxation Times of Fetal Tissues in Uncomplicated Pregnancies
Authors: Sethi Simran , Giza Stephanie A. , Goldberg Estee , Empey Mary‐Ellen E.T. , de Ribaupierre Sandrine , Eastabrook Genevieve D.M. , de Vrijer Barbra , McKenzie Charles A.
Published: February 2021

Background

Despite its many advantages, experience with fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is limited, as is knowledge of how fetal tissue relaxation times change with gestational age (GA). Quantification of fetal tissue relaxation times as a function of GA provides insight into tissue changes during fetal development and facilitates comparison of images across time and subjects. This, therefore, can allow the determination of biophysical tissue parameters that may have clinical utility.

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of quantifying previously unknown T1 and T2* relaxation times of fetal tissues in uncomplicated pregnancies as a function of GA at 1.5 T.

Study Type

Pilot.

Population

Nine women with singleton, uncomplicated pregnancies (28–38 weeks GA).

Field Strength/Sequence

All participants underwent two iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least‐squares estimation (IDEAL‐IQ) acquisitions at different flip angles (6° and 20°) at 1.5 T.

Assessment

Segmentations of the lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, muscle, and adipose tissue (AT) were conducted using water‐only images and proton density fat fraction maps. Driven equilibrium single pulse observation of T1 (DESPOT1) was used to quantify the mean water T1 of the lungs, intraabdominal organs, and muscle, and the mean water and lipid T1 of AT. IDEAL T2* maps were used to quantify the T2* values of the lungs, intraabdominal organs, and muscle.

Statistical Tests

F‐tests were performed to assess the T1 and T2* changes of each analyzed tissue as a function of GA.

Results

No tissue demonstrated a significant change in T1 as a function of GA (lungs [P = 0.89]; liver [P = 0.14]; spleen [P = 0.59]; kidneys [P = 0.97]; muscle [P = 0.22]; AT: water [P = 0.36] and lipid [P = 0.14]). Only the spleen and muscle T2* showed a significant decrease as a function of GA (lungs [P = 0.67); liver [P = 0.05]; spleen [P < 0.05]; kidneys [P = 0.70]; muscle [P < 0.05]).

Data Conclusion

These preliminary data suggest that the T1 of the investigated tissues is relatively stable over 28–38 weeks GA, while the T2* change in spleen and muscle decreases significantly in that period.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
COVID‐19 infection in patients with intestinal failure: UK experience
Authors: Allan P. J. , Ambrose T. , Mountford C. , Bond A. , Donnellan C. , Boyle R. , Calvert C. , Cernat E. , Clarke E. , Cooper S. C. , Donnelly S. , Evans B. , Glynn M. , Hewett R. , Holohan A. S. , Leitch E. F. , Louis‐Auguste J. , Mehta S. , Naik S. , Nightingale J. , Rafferty G. , Rodrigues A. , Sharkey L. , Small M. , Teubner A. , Urs A. , Wyer N. , Lal S.
Published: February 2021

Background

The direct effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on patients with intestinal failure (IF) has not been described.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide study of UK IF centers to evaluate the infection rates, presentations, and outcomes in patients with types 2 and 3 IF.

Results

A total of 45 patients with IF contracted COVID‐19 between March and August 2020; this included 26 of 2191 (1.2%) home parenteral nutrition (HPN)–dependent adults and 19 of 298 (6.4%) adults hospitalized with type 2 IF. The proportion of patients receiving nursing care for HPN administration was higher in those with community‐acquired COVID‐19 (66.7%) than the proportion in the entire HPN cohort (26.1%; P < .01). Two HPN‐dependent and 1 hospitalized patient with type 2 IF died as a direct consequence of the virus (6.7% of 45 patients with types 2 or 3 infected).

Conclusion

This is the first study to describe the outcomes of COVID‐19 in a large cohort of patients requiring long‐term PN. Methods to reduce hospital and community nosocomial spread would likely be beneficial.
Are Spanish‐Speaking Families Less Satisfied with Care in Pediatric Otolaryngology?
Authors: Wandell Grace M. , Wang Xing , Whitlock Kathryn B. , Weber Alizabeth K. , Sie Kathleen C. Y. , Bonilla‐Velez Juliana
Published: February 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Language barriers may impact family experience, which is a key measure of healthcare quality. We compared family satisfaction between Spanish‐speaking families (SSF) and English‐speaking families (ESF) in pediatric otolaryngology.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Responses from the Family Experience Survey (FES), a hospital quality benchmarking survey, were analyzed from 2017 to 2019 at one academic pediatric otolaryngology practice. Question responses were compared between SSF versus ESF using mixed effect logistic regression models, adjusting for patient age, medical complexity, and insurance.

Results

A total of 4,964 FES survey responses were included (14% SSF). In multivariate analysis adjusting for age, medical complexity, and insurance, SSF were 1.7 times more likely than ESF to rate their provider with the highest rating (i.e. 9–10/10; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24–2.22). However, SSF were less likely than ESF to provide the highest rating on many individual aspects of care, including whether providers explained things intelligibly (odds ratio [OR] 0.43, 95% CI 0.25–0.74), listened carefully (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.28–0.47), knew their medical child's history (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.44–0.64), provided understandable information (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.16–0.83), spent sufficient time with them (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.31–0.48), allowed them to discuss their questions (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.47–0.70), or had enough input in their children's' care (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26–0.80).

Conclusions

In a large cohort of pediatric otolaryngology patients, SSF rated many individual aspects of their child's care less positively compared to ESF, despite rating their provider highly. Further research is needed to explore the reasons for these differences and how they can be improved.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E2393–E2401, 2021
Effects of residue mulching amounts on metabolic footprints based on production and respiration of soil nematodes in a long‐term no‐tillage system
Authors: Luo Jingmei , Zhang Xiaoke , Kou Xinchang , Xie Hongtu , Bao Xuelian , Mahamood Mohammad , Liang Wenju
Published: February 2021

Residue mulching has been adopted to improve soil organic carbon and to prevent soil erosion and degradation, which in turn promote the sustainable development of soil ecosystems. Nematode metabolic footprints provide information about the responses of nematodes to resources and also help in quantifying the contributions of nematodes to ecosystem functions and services. However, how production and respiration components of nematode metabolic footprints vary in different mulching amounts is less clear. Therefore, to explore the impact of different mulching amounts on the production and respiration of nematode trophic groups, soil samples were collected from four mulching treatments (without mulching, with 33%, 67%, and 100% mulching of the stover remaining at harvest) at the depths of 0–5 cm and 5–10 cm in a 12‐year long no‐tillage system. Our results proved that the mulching effect on the production and respiration of fungivores was significant, and the production was 71.8%, 62.7%, 71.5% higher and respiration was 67.7%, 61.9%, 70% higher in 100% mulching treatment than without mulching, 33% and 67% mulching, respectively. More basal C flowed into the fungal decomposition pathways and fungivores contributed more to soil carbon sequestration through the decomposition of recalcitrant nutrients from residue at the end of crop growth. There was higher production than respiration in bacterivores and an opposite trend was observed in fungivores. Residue mulching increased the metabolic footprints of nematode communities and carbon use efficiency of fungivores and omnivores and predators and then enhanced the potential of soil carbon sequestration through the metabolic process of different nematode trophic groups.
Microwave‐Assisted Solvothermal Controlled Synthesis of Fe‐Co Composite Material
Authors: Rizzuti Antonino , Leonelli Cristina , Dell'Anna Maria Michela , Romanazzi Giuseppe , Mali Matilda , Catauro Michelina , Mastrorilli Piero
Published: February 2021

Syntheses of cobalt‐iron oxide composites starting from cobalt acetate and iron acetylacetonate are carried out by microwave‐assisted solvothermal process, using ethylene glycol as the solvent and (polyvinylpyrrolidone) PVP, as the stabilizer. Indeed, the reaction mechanism in the presence of ethylene glycol is well understood with the role of PVP being the inhibitor of nanoparticle growth. However, the control of the morphology of the synthetized nanoparticles is still a great challenge. Herein, it is demonstrated that by adding amines to the reaction mixture, it is possible to control the morphology of the prepared bimetallic cobalt‐iron materials. Thus, different Fe‐Co oxide micro‐particles are synthetized by an innovative microwave‐assisted solvothermal synthesis, which allows to considerably reduce reaction time from 12 h to 15 min, with respect to conventional methods. The procedure is optimized by varying several parameters, such as amount of PVP, in the presence or in the absence of amines, reaction temperature. The dark brown powders of the product are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and thermal analysis, confirming the beneficial effect of the presence of the amine on the morphology of the obtained composites. These results open a new scenario for further studies on the possibility to control the morphology of composite materials.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Sorafenib Anti‐Cancer Drug: Inclusion Complex in Amphiphilic Cyclodextrin
Authors: Raffaini Giuseppina , Mazzaglia Antonino , Catauro Michelina
Published: February 2021

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are cyclic oligosaccharides able to solubilize hydrophobic drugs in water enhancing their bioavailability. Sorafenib (SOR) is a lipophilic oral multikinase inhibitor that impedes proliferation, angiogenesis, and invasion of cancer cells with low water‐solubility. Recently, amphiphilic cyclodextrins (aCDs) have been investigated as possible nanocarrier for systemic administration of SOR increasing its bio‐availability. A theoretical study about inclusion complexes of SOR drug and a model of aCD system using molecular mechanics (MM) and molecular dynamics (MD) methods is here reported. At first, the single molecule aCD (SC6OH, heptakis(2‐O‐oligo(ethylene oxide)‐6‐hexylthio)‐β‐CD bearing 14 units of ethylene‐oxide at the CD secondary rim) and SOR drug are studied. Then, the interaction between aCD and SOR is investigated. The theoretical results display different types of interaction geometries. The most stable geometry of the host‐guest complex showed the lowest potential and favorable interaction energy and the fluorine atoms of SOR drug molecule are directed toward the hydrophobic primary rim of the aCD, while the part of the SOR rich in oxygen atoms is directed toward the hydrophilic secondary rim. This theoretical result is in a good agreement with NMR data in literature about same aCD as host of Sorafenib anti‐cancer drug.
Cytocompatibility of Caffeic Acid‐Silica Hybrid Materials on NIH‐3T3 Fibroblast Cells
Authors: Catauro Michelina , Poggetto Giovanni Dal , Crescente Giuseppina , Piccolella Simona , Pacifico Severina
Published: February 2021

The hydroxycinnamoyl compound caffeic acid (CA), broadly occurring in plants, is receiving special attention in materials science thanks to its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities that make it promising for application use in various sectors. In this context, CA–based peptide biomaterials are recently developed as eco‐friendly and multifunctional free radical scavengers useable in a wide range of consumer manufacture, ranging from cosmetics to household products, as well as clinical applications, including imaging, drug delivery, and disinfection. Furthermore, a water‐soluble chitosan‐caffeic acid conjugate, effective in delaying lipid oxidation, is also synthetized. Herein, exploiting sol‐gel route versatility, CA/silica materials are synthetized. Hybrids, chemically characterized mainly through spectroscopic techniques, varied in their relative CA content, which represented 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% of materials’ weight. The synthetized materials are able to elicit anti‐radical properties. The CA amount appeared to be determinant in anti‐radical activity, as well as in biocompatibility assessment. To this latter purpose, mouse embryonic fibroblast cell line NIH‐3T3 cells are utilized and directly exposed to hybrid materials. Redox mitochondrial activity is evaluated by means of the MTT test, whose results are in accordance with the materials’ biocompatibility.
A novel SiO2/Polyetherimide (PEI) Composite Synthesized by Sol‐Gel Route: Characterization and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Poggetto Giovanni Dal , Fiorentino Marika , D'angelo Antonio , Catauro Michelina
Published: February 2021

Polyetherimide (PEI), an amorphous thermoplastic material, is a promising candidate for wide applications due to its high heat stability and its biocompatibility in human tissues. In the present paper, PEI (4 wt%) is added to SiO2 inorganic matrix in order to obtain a novel composite biomaterial through sol‐gel route. Structural characterization by means of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed, through hydrogen bond interactions, the presence of both organic and inorganic components in the structure. Concerning the compatibility in the biological systems, a study of antibacterial properties is carried out, analyzing the effect of SiO2/PEI composite on Escherichia coli (gram‐negative) and Enterococcus faecalis (gram‐positive).
Shear Characterization of Additively Manufactured Short Carbon Fiber‐Reinforced Polymer
Authors: Striemann Patrick , Bulach Simon , Hülsbusch Daniel , Niedermeier Michael , Walther Frank
Published: February 2021

The additive manufacturing (AM) techniques Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM™) or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) are all based on material extrusion and are one of the most widely used AM methods. Serial production with this technology requires a deep understanding for the process and the effects of the process parameters on the mechanical properties. In literature tensile, compression, or flexural properties are often considered. However, the basic structure of a FFF part is strongly anisotropic and therefore similar to a composite material. The characterization of a carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) involves additional material properties. One of the most informative quality values for CFRP is the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) in the midplane direction. The ILSS can be handled in an equivalent way for AM parts in form of the interlayer shear strength. The literature shows various approaches, but no existing standard to determine the interlayer shear strength for FFF parts. The aim of the study is a suitable experimental setup for identifying the interlayer shear strength of AM parts. The experimental setup and the specimen geometry in accordance with DIN 65148 are adapted to ensure an interlayer failure mode between two layers. The newly developed test approach is validated with a test series showing a decrease in ILSS of up to 40% by increasing the layer height.
Correlation Between Composites Behavior and the Manufacturing Process Used
Authors: Hammiche Dalila , Boukerrou Amar , Duchet‐Rumeau Jannick , Gerard Jean‐François
Published: February 2021

In this work, alfa fiber reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composites treated with PVC‐g‐MA (5%), used as a compatibilizer, are prepared using three processing techniques: calendering, Brabender, and injection molding. The morphology, the tensile and thermal properties of PVC/alfa composites with and without compatibilizer obtained through these three processes are compared. The results showed, to a great extent, that the injection molding process is more effective for the manufacturing of PVC/alfa composites.