bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A functional long‐term 2D serum‐free human hepatic in vitro system for drug evaluation
Authors: Oleaga Carlota , Bridges L. Richard , Persaud Keisha , McAleer Christopher W. , Long Christopher J. , Hickman James J.
Published: August 2020

Human in vitro hepatic models generate faster drug toxicity data with higher human predictability compared to animal models. However, for long‐term studies, current models require the use of serum and 3D architecture, limiting their utility. Maintaining a functional long‐term human in vitro hepatic culture that avoids complex structures and serum would improve the value of such systems for preclinical studies. This would also enable a more straightforward integration with current multi‐organ devices to study human systemic toxicity to generate an alternative model to chronic animal evaluations. A human primary hepatocyte culture system was characterized for 28 days in 2D and serum‐free defined conditions. Under the studied conditions, human primary hepatocytes maintained their characteristic morphology, hepatic markers and functions for 28 days. The acute and chronic administration of known drugs validated the sensitivity of the system for drug testing. This human 2D model represents a realistic system to evaluate hepatic function for long‐term drug studies, without the need of animal serum, confounding variable in most models, and with less complexity and resultant cost compared to most 3D models. The defined culture conditions can easily be integrated into complex multi‐organ in vitro models for studying systemic effects driven by the liver function for long‐term evaluations.
Dkk1 acts as a negative regulator in the osteogenic differentiation of the posterior longitudinal ligament cells
Authors: Dong Jun , Xu Xiqiang , Zhang Qingyu , Yuan Zenong , Tan Bingyi
Published: August 2020

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is a spinal disorder characterized by progressive ectopic bone formation in the PLL of the spine. Dickkopf‐1 (Dkk1) is a secreted inhibitor of the Wnt pathway that negatively regulates bone formation during skeletal development. However, whether Dkk1 impacts the pathogenesis of OPLL has not been reported. This study is to investigate the role of Dkk1 in the development of OPLL. Our results show that the serum levels of Dkk1 are decreased in OPLL patients compared with non‐OPLL controls. The expression of Dkk1 is also reduced in OPLL ligament cells. Downregulation of Dkk1 in ligament cells is associated with activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling, as indicated by stabilized β‐catenin and increased T‐cell factor‐dependent transcriptional activity. Functionally, Dkk1 exerts a growth‐inhibitory effect by repressing proliferation but promoting apoptosis of ligament cells. Dkk1 also suppresses bone morphogenetic protein 2‐induced entire osteogenic differentiation of ligament cells, and this suppression is mediated via its inhibition of the Wnt pathway. Our results demonstrate for the first time that Dkk1 acts as an important negative regulator in the ossification of the PLL. Targeting the Wnt pathway using Dkk1 may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of OPLL.
Strategies for 1H‐Detected Dynamic Nuclear Polarization Magic‐Angle Spinning NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Concistré Maria , Paul Subhradip , Carravetta Marina , Kuprov Ilya , Williamson Philip T. F.
Published: August 2020

Combining dynamic nuclear polarization with proton detection significantly enhances the sensitivity of magic‐angle spinning NMR spectroscopy. Herein, the feasibility of proton‐detected experiments with slow (10 kHz) magic angle spinning was demonstrated. The improvement in sensitivity permits the acquisition of indirectly detected 14N NMR spectra allowing biomolecular structures to be characterized without recourse to isotope labelling. This provides a new tool for the structural characterization of environmental and medical samples, in which isotope labelling is frequently intractable.
Catalytic oxidation of organic solvent vapour with Pt/Co3O4‐CeO2 supported on a honeycomb carrier
Authors: Inoue Kenichiro , Somekawa Shoichi , Fujiwara Hiroyuki , Kawami Yoshimasa
Published: August 2020

We supported Pt/Co3O4‐CeO2 on a honeycomb carrier and examined the catalytic oxidation activity for organic solvent vapour. The support of platinum on Co3O4‐CeO2 was not necessary if gas containing only ethyl acetate as organic solvent was treated. However, in gas containing both toluene and ethyl acetate, Pt/Co3O4‐CeO2 showed higher activity than both Co3O4‐CeO2 and commercial grade Pt/Al2O3. By first supporting Co3O4‐CeO2 and then platinum on the honeycomb carrier, the platinum was concentrated more toward the surface of the catalyst and the activity increased. A test using sprayed paint thinner exhaust gas in a paint booth was also performed. Even when less platinum was utilized, by combining it with Co3O4‐CeO2, the coexistent organic components of toluene, ethyl acetate, and butyl acetate, etc., in the exhaust gas were completely oxidized at 250°C.
Modelling heterogeneous photocatalytic oxidation using suspended TiO2 in a photoreactor working in continuous mode: Application to dynamic irradiation conditions simulating typical days in July and February
Authors: Plantard Gael , Dezani Chloé , Ribeiro Enrique , Reoyo‐Prats Brice , Goetz Vincent
Published: August 2020

Compared to more conventional techniques, advanced oxidation processes (AOP) hold significant promise in terms of elimination of organic (especially persistent) compounds and microorganisms (disinfection) in wastewater. If the objective is to power these processes using solar energy, we need to be able to manage the intermittency in the solar resource. This is an essential step for design and to ensure efficient operation of the treatment processes. As solar radiation is inherently variable due to day/night cycles, seasonal cycles, and weather meteorological conditions, solar AOP performances are difficult to establish using conventional measures. To address this gap, we carry out experimental campaigns under controlled conditions and develop modelling tools capable of describing dynamic‐mode photocatalytic degradation. Here we develop a way to capture the responses of a photoreactor subjected to various stresses, including irradiation conditions, via an LED panel. Using a model that considers the influence of UV flux density and pollutant concentration made, it was possible to represent photoreactor responses under different irradiation conditions and feeds (concentration or flow at the input). The ultimate objective is to study the photocatalytic capacity of the photoreactor under irradiation conditions simulating a real day of sunshine.
Efforts towards Practical and Sustainable Li/Na‐Air Batteries
Authors: Chen Kai , Huang Gang , Zhang Xin‐Bo
Published: August 2020

The Li‐O2 batteries have attracted much attention due to their parallel theoretical energy density to gasoline. In the past 20 years, understanding and knowledge in Li‐O2 battery have greatly deepened in elucidating the relationship between structure and performance. Our group has been focusing on the cathode engineering and anode protection strategy development in the past years, trying to make full use of the superiority of metal‐air batteries towards applications. In this review, we aim to retrospect our efforts in developing practical, sustainable metal‐air batteries. We will first introduce the basic working principle of Li‐O2 batteries and our progresses in Li‐O2 batteries with typical cathode designs and anode protection strategies, which have together promoted the large capacity, long life and low charge overpotential. We emphasize the designing art of carbon‐based cathodes in this part along with a short talk on all‐metal cathodes. The following part is our research in Na‐O2 batteries including both cathode and anode optimizations. The differences between Li‐O2 and Na‐O2 batteries are also briefly discussed. Subsequently, our proof‐of‐concept work on Li‐N2 battery, a new energy storage system and chemistry, is discussed with detailed information on the discharge product identification. Finally, we summarize our designed models and prototypes of flexible metal‐air batteries that are promising to be used in flexible devices to deliver more power.
Keeping the Pharmacology in Pharmacoepidemiology
Authors: Staffa Judy A.
Published: August 2020

The treatment of many medical conditions requires the use of multiple drugs. A study published recently in this journal nicely illustrates the need to consider the pharmacology of potentially interacting drugs when conducting pharmacoepidemiologic studies of patient safety outcomes associated with such interactions. By examining multiple streams of data, we can piece together the risks and the mechanisms of action underlying those risks, and provide useful information for clinicians and patients to use multiple pharmacotherapies safely.
COVID‐19 diagnostic testing: Technology perspective
Authors: Xu Meng , Wang Dan , Wang Hongye , Zhang Xiaomei , Liang Te , Dai Jiayu , Li Meng , Zhang Jiahui , Zhang Kai , Xu Danke , Yu Xiaobo
Published: August 2020

The corona virus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a highly contagious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). More than 18 million people were infected with a total of 0.7 million deaths in ∼188 countries. Controlling the spread of SARS‐CoV‐2 is therefore inherently dependent on identifying and isolating infected individuals, especially since COVID‐19 can result in little to no symptoms. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the different primary technologies used to test for COVID‐19 infection, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each technology, and highlight the studies that have employed them. We also describe technologies that have the potential to accelerate SARS‐CoV‐2 detection in the future, including digital PCR, CRISPR, and microarray. Finally, remaining challenges in COVID‐19 diagnostic testing are discussed, including (a) the lack of universal standards for diagnostic testing; (b) the identification of appropriate sample collection site(s); (c) the difficulty in performing large population screening; and (d) the limited understanding of SARS‐COV‐2 viral invasion, replication, and transmission.
A Novel Non‐enzymatic Selective and Sensitive Glucose Sensor Based on Nickel‐Copper Oxide@3D‐rGO/MWCNTs
Authors: Taji Zahra , Ensafi Ali A. , Heydari‐Soureshjani Elahe , Rezaei Behzad
Published: August 2020

In this work, a modified 3D‐rGO/MWCNT with nickel and copper oxide nanoparticles were synthesized. The structural properties of this nanocomposite were investigated by several techniques. The fabricated sensor at optimum condition potential of +0.60 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) and a rotational rate of 1800 rpm gave a detection limit of 0.04 μmol L−1 with two dynamic ranges of 0.10–300 and 300–900 μmol L−1 glucose with high stability. The good accuracy of the fabricated sensor was proved in the determination of glucose in a blood sample (with recoveries between 95 % to 105 % and RSDs of 1.2 to 2.5 %).
Virgibacillus halodenitrificans ST‐1 for fermentation of shrimp paste and hydrolysates of its protease
Authors: Liu Xueqin , Feng Yanli , Lai Xiaohua , Deng Tian , Liu Xin , Lyu Mingsheng , Wang Shujun
Published: August 2020

The nutrition and flavor of shrimp paste came from hydrolyzation by enzymes that were produced by microorganisms. The salt‐tolerant strain Virgibacillus halodenitrificans ST‐1 isolated from shrimp paste was studied and used in the fermentation of shrimp paste. The strain and the protease produced by ST‐1 were investigated. The optimum pH of the protease was 8.0, and the reaction temperature was 30°C. The protease showed high activity in the range of pH (5.0–11.0) and NaCl concentration (1%–15%). Divalent cations such as Ba2+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Mn2+, and Si2+ could enhance the protease activity. Residual activity of protease was more than 90% when it was incubated with PMSF and H2O2. Also, the enzyme retained more than 90% of initial activity after it was incubated with organic solvents. Variety of natural proteins could be substrates of the protease. By analyzing the release rate of free amino acids, it was predicted that the cleavage sites of the protease were mainly Glu, Asp, Gly, Leu, and Lys. Moreover, the hydrolysates of the protease had antioxidant activity, especially for DPPH and superoxide anion radical scavenging. The strain ST‐1 and the protease both were excellent candidates for food industries.
Finding specificity in structural brain alterations through Bayesian reverse inference
Authors: Cauda Franco , Nani Andrea , Liloia Donato , Manuello Jordi , Premi Enrico , Duca Sergio , Fox Peter T. , Costa Tommaso
Published: August 2020

In the field of neuroimaging reverse inferences can lead us to suppose the involvement of cognitive processes from certain patterns of brain activity. However, the same reasoning holds if we substitute “brain activity” with “brain alteration” and “cognitive process” with “brain disorder.” The fact that different brain disorders exhibit a high degree of overlap in their patterns of structural alterations makes forward inference‐based analyses less suitable for identifying brain areas whose alteration is specific to a certain pathology. In the forward inference‐based analyses, in fact, it is impossible to distinguish between areas that are altered by the majority of brain disorders and areas that are specifically affected by certain diseases. To address this issue and allow the identification of highly pathology‐specific altered areas we used the Bayes' factor technique, which was employed, as a proof of concept, on voxel‐based morphometry data of schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. This technique allows to calculate the ratio between the likelihoods of two alternative hypotheses (in our case, that the alteration of the voxel is specific for the brain disorder under scrutiny or that the alteration is not specific). We then performed temporal simulations of the alterations' spread associated with different pathologies. The Bayes' factor values calculated on these simulated data were able to reveal that the areas, which are more specific to a certain disease, are also the ones to be early altered. This study puts forward a new analytical instrument capable of innovating the methodological approach to the investigation of brain pathology.
Effects of inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation of siRNA on polyadenylate‐binding protein‐interacting protein 1 in tongue cell carcinoma
Authors: Xie Huixu , Yang Lisa , Hu Qin , Song Yingqi , Wang Xiaoyi , Zhou Liming , Li Longjiang
Published: August 2020

Background

It has been reported that the polyadenylate‐binding protein‐interacting protein 1 (PAIP1) pathway is closely connected with the progression of some malignant tumors. Here we examined the potential functional mechanism of PAIP1 in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC).

Methods

PAIP1 was knocked down in TSCC cell lines and proliferation and apoptosis in vitro analyzed. The molecular features of TSCC were determined using quantitative proteome and succinylome analyses. The results were confirmed in the mouse model.

Results

PAIP1 promoted cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis. Its knockdown decreased Ki67 and Pcna expressions and increased Bax/Bcl2 index and Caspase‐3 expression. Bioinformatics analysis for proteomics revealed that PAIP1 knockdown correlated with the changes in differential protein expression.

Conclusions

Upregulation of PAIP1 induces cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis in TSCC; PAIP1 might be a diagnostic biomarker and a significant drug target.
Panendoscopy during follow‐up in laryngeal carcinoma patients after radiotherapy
Authors: Stanisz Isabella , Janik Stefan , Grasl Matthäus Christoph , Erovic Boban M.
Published: August 2020

Background

Early detection of a recurrent disease remains essential during follow‐up to improve outcome and reduce morbidity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adequacy of panendoscopy after radiotherapy for recurrent laryngeal carcinoma.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, 623 patients were included. Clinical and radiological examinations were compared to pathohistological results of panendoscopy and clinical outcome.

Results

In the first 6 months after therapy, a negative histopathological result was significantly higher in patients after radiotherapy (n = 394) compared to patients after surgery (n = 195) alone (odds ratio [OR] 0.4424, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.2081‐0.969, P = .05). After radiotherapy, a suspicious radiological result was not significantly linked to recurrence (OR 1.461, 95% CI 0.7126‐3.021, P = .37). Clinical investigation was the best predictive parameter for detecting recurrent disease after radiation therapy (OR 4.061, 95% CI 2.268‐7.113, P = <.0001).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that in the first 6 months after radiotherapy, emphasis should be placed on clinical evaluation during follow‐up.
Field studies on the influence of rainfall intensity, vegetation cover and slope length on soil moisture infiltration on typical watersheds of the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: He Zimiao , Jia Guodong , Liu Ziqiang , Zhang Zhenyao , Yu Xinxiao , Xiao Peiqing
Published: August 2020

Soil moisture is a key process in the hydrological cycle. During ecological restoration of the Loess Plateau, soil moisture status has undergone important changes, and infiltration of soil moisture during precipitation events is a key link affecting water distribution. Our study aims to quantify the effects of vegetation cover, rainfall intensity and slope length on total infiltration and the spatial variation of water flow. Infiltration data from the upper, middle and lower slopes of a bare slope, a natural grassland and an artificial shrub grassland were obtained using a simulated rainfall experiment. The angle of the study slope was 15° and rainfall intensity was set at 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 mm/hr. The effect these factors have on soil moisture infiltration was quantified using main effect analysis. Our results indicate that the average infiltration depth (ID) of a bare slope, a grassland slope and an artificial shrub grassland slope was 46.7–73.3, 60–80, and 60–93.3 cm, respectively, and average soil moisture storage increment was 3.5–5.7, 5.0–9.4, and 5.7–10.2 mm under different rainfall intensities, respectively. Heavy rainfall intensity and vegetation cover reduced the difference of soil infiltration in the 0–40 cm soil layer, and rainfall intensity increased surface infiltration differences on the bare slope, the grassland slope and the artificial shrub grassland slope. Infiltration was dominated by rainfall intensity, accounting for 63.03–88.92%. As rainfall continued, the contribution of rainfall intensity to infiltration gradually decreased, and the contribution of vegetation cover and slope length to infiltration increased. The interactive contribution was: rainfall intensity * vegetation cover > vegetation cover * slope length > rainfall * slope length. In the grass and shrub grass slopes, lateral flow was found at a depth of 23–37 cm when the slope length was 5–10 m, this being related to the difference in soil infiltration capacity between different soil layers formed by the spatial cross‐connection of roots.
Mass production of active recombinant Chryseobacterium proteolyticum protein glutaminase in Escherichia coli using a sequential dual expression system and one‐step purification
Authors: Lu Xin , Poon Terence Chuen Wai , Zhang Hongmin
Published: August 2020

Protein glutaminase (PG) is an enzyme that specifically catalyzes the deamidation of glutamine residues on proteins or peptides, remarkably improving the solubility, emulsification and foaming properties of food proteins and, thereby, conferring great potential in food industry applications. PG is primarily produced from wild strains of Chryseobacterium proteolyticum and the low enzyme production yield restricts large‐scale industrial applications. In this context, by evaluating different cleavage site insertions between the pro‐region and mature domain of PG as well as different linkers flanking the cleavage site, an E. coli expression and purification protocol has been developed to produce active recombinant PG. To simplify the production workflow, we developed a sequential dual expression system. More than 15 mg of pure and active PG was obtained from 1 L of shaking‐flask bacteria culture by one‐step nickel affinity chromatography purification. The enzymatic characteristics of the recombinant PG protein were similar to those of native PG. For the deamidation effect of recombinant PG, the deamidation degree (DD) of gliadin reached up to 67% and the solubility increased 84‐fold. Thus, this study provides a practical approach to mass producing active PG proteins and investigates its potential applications on food proteins.
Identification and characterization of a novel isoform of heparin cofactorIIin human liver
Authors: Bano Shadabi , Fatima Sana , Ahamad Shahzaib , Ansari Shoyab , Gupta Dinesh , Tabish Mohammad , Rehman Sayeed ur , Jairajpuri Mohamad Aman
Published: August 2020

Heparin cofactor II (HCII) is predominantly expressed in the liver and inhibits thrombin in blood plasma to influence the blood coagulation cascade. Its deficiency is associated with arterial thrombosis. Its cleavage by neutrophil elastase produces fragment that helps in neutrophil chemotaxis in the acute inflammatory response in human. In the present study, we have identified a novel alternatively spliced transcript of the HCII gene in human liver. This novel transcript includes an additional novel region in continuation with exon 3 called exon 3b. Exon 3b acts like an alternate last exon, and hence its inclusion in the transcript due to alternative splicing removes exon 4 and encodes for a different C‐terminal region to give a novel protein, HCII‐N. MD simulations of HCII‐N and three‐dimensional structure showed a unique 51 amino acid sequence at the C‐terminal having unique RCL‐like structure. The HCII‐N protein purified from bacterial culture showed a protein migrating at lower molecular weight (MW 55 kDa) as compared to native HCII (MW 66 kDa). A fluorescence‐based analysis revealed a more compact structure of HCII‐N that was in a more hydrophilic environment. The HCII‐N protein, however, showed no inhibitory activity against thrombin. Due to large conformational variation observed in comparison with native HCII, HCII‐N may have alternate protease specificity or a non‐inhibitory role. Western blot of HCII purified from large plasma volume showed the presence of a low MW 59 kDa band with no thrombin activity. This study provides the first evidence of alternatively spliced novel isoform of the HCII gene.
Fluorescence cross‐correlation spectroscopy as a valuable tool to characterize cationic liposome‐DNA nanoparticle assembly
Authors: Gómez‐Varela Ana I. , Gaspar Ricardo , Miranda Adelaide , Assis Juliane L. , Valverde Rafael H.F. , Einicker‐Lamas Marcelo , Silva Bruno F. B. , De Beule Pieter A.A.
Published: August 2020

The development of nonviral gene delivery vehicles for therapeutic applications requires methods capable of quantifying the association between the genes and their carrier counterparts. Here we investigate the potential of fluorescence cross‐correlation spectroscopy (FCCS) to characterize and optimize the assembly of nonviral cationic liposome (CL)‐DNA complexes based on a CL formulation consisting of the cationic lipid DOTAP and zwitterionic lipid DOPC. We use a DNA plasmid for lipoplex loading encoding the Oct4 gene, critically involved in reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells. We demonstrate that FCCS is able to quantitatively determine the extent of the association between DNA and the liposomes and assess its loading capacity. We also establish that the cationic lipid fraction, being proportional to the liposome membrane charge density, as well as charge ratio between the CLs and anionic DNA play an important role in the degree of interaction between the liposomes and DNA.
Time‐gated luminescence imaging of positively charged poly‐l‐lysine‐coated highly microporous silicon nanoparticles in living Hydra polyp
Authors: Schiattarella Chiara , Moretta Rosalba , Defforge Thomas , Gautier Gaël , Della Ventura Bartolomeo , Terracciano Monica , Tortiglione Claudia , Fardella Federica , Maddalena Pasqualino , De Stefano Luca , Velotta Raffaele , Rea Ilaria
Published: August 2020

The development of non‐toxic fluorescent agents alternative to heavy metal‐based semiconductor quantum dots represents a relevant topic in biomedical research and in particular in the bioimaging field. Herein, highly luminescent Si─H terminal microporous silicon nanoparticles with μs‐lived photoemission are chemically modified with a two step process and successfully used as label‐free probes for in vivo time‐gated luminescence imaging. In this context, Hydra vulgaris is used as model organism for in vivo study and validity assessment. The application of time gating allows to pursue an effective sorting of the signals, getting rid of the most common sources of noise that are fast‐decay tissue autofluorescence and excitation scattering within the tissue. Indeed, an enhancement by a factor ~ 20 in the image signal‐to‐noise ratio can be estimated.
Short‐term biological variation and Reference change values of urinary 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydro‐2'‐deoxyguanosine and 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydroguanosine
Authors: Zhang Ruiping , Yu Songlin , Wang Danchen , Yin Yicong , Yu Jialei , Cao Yongtong , Qiu Ling
Published: August 2020

Aim

The DNA and RNA oxidative damage products urinary 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydro‐2'‐deoxyguanosine (8‐odGsn) and 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydroguanosine (8‐oGsn) have potential use in clinical practice. However, biological variation (BV) and reference change values (RCVs) have not been established. The aim of this study was to establish the short‐term between‐subject BV(CVG), within‐subject BV(CVI), and RCVs for urinary 8‐odGsn and 8‐oGsn.

Methods

First‐morning midstream urine specimens were collected from 20 apparently healthy subjects(ten males and ten females) on five consecutive days. 8‐odGsn and 8‐oGsn were measured using LC‐MS/MS, while urine creatinine (U‐Cr) was also measured to correct their results. A two‐level nested ANOVA was used to estimate the CVI and CVG.

Results

The values of CVG for 8‐odGsn, 8‐odGsn/U‐Cr, 8‐oGsn, and 8‐oGsn/U‐Cr were 31.2%, 39.6%, 35.3%, and 28.8%, respectively, while CVI for them were 40.5%, 9.0%, 33.5%, and 12.1%, respectively. The RCVs for 8‐odGsn, 8‐odGsn/U‐Cr, 8‐oGsn, and 8‐oGsn/U‐Cr were 112.5%, 26.7%, 93.7%, and 36.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

BV and RCVs were firstly established for 8‐oxo‐dGsn and 8‐oGsn, and can be used in clinical practice.
Changes in lung ultrasound of symptomatic healthcare professionals with COVID‐19 pneumonia and their association with clinical findings
Authors: Mafort Thiago Thomaz , Lopes Agnaldo José , da Costa Cláudia Henrique , da Cal Mariana Soares , Lopes Mariana Carneiro , da Silva Bruno Rangel Antunes , Faria Luana Fortes , Faria Anamelia Costa , Costa Walter , Salles Raquel Esteves Brandão , de Castro Marcos César Santos , Rufino Rogério
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To evaluate ultrasound signs of coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19) pneumonia in symptomatic healthcare professionals and to correlate those changes with clinical findings.

Methods

All patients underwent real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), lung ultrasound (LUS) and clinical evaluation on the same day. In each of the 12 areas evaluated in the LUS, the LUS signs were scored to generate the aeration score.

Results

A total of 409 participants had positive PCR, with a median age of 41 (35‐51) years. All participants had clinical symptoms, with cough in 84.1%, fever in 69.7%, and dyspnea in 36.2% of cases. In the LUS, 72.6% of participants had B‐lines >2, 36.2% had coalescent B‐lines, and 8.06% had subpleural consolidations. The median aeration score was 3 (2‐7). The aeration score differed significantly regarding the presence of cough (P = .002), fever (P = .001), and dyspnea (P < .0001). The finding of subpleural consolidations in the LUS showed significant differences between participants with or without dyspnea (P < .0001).

Conclusions

In healthcare professionals with COVID‐19, LUS plays a key role in the characterization of lung involvement. Although B‐lines are the most common ultrasound sign, subpleural consolidations are those that most impact the respiratory condition.
“Follow the Fallopian tube”: A technique to improve sonographic identification of ovaries in children
Authors: Kitami Masahiro , Aoki Hidekazu , Saito Mioko
Published: August 2020

Ovary detection is the first step in confirming ovarian lesions. The daughter cyst sign is widely used for this purpose; however, it is not always applicable. Recent improvements in image resolution allow Fallopian tube delineation, which can serve as a guide to identify the ovary. This anatomical approach (“follow the Fallopian tube” technique) comprises three steps: (1) confirm the uterus; (2) follow the Fallopian tube; and (3) find the ovary. Other applications of this approach include the differentiation between nonovarian and ovarian masses and ruling out ovarian torsion and an auto‐amputated ovary.
Daikenchuto attenuates visceral pain and suppresses eosinophil infiltration in inflammatory bowel disease in murine models
Authors: Kogure Yoko , Kanda Hirosato , Wang Shenglan , Hao Yongbiao , Li Junxiang , Yamamoto Satoshi , Noguchi Koichi , Dai Yi
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim

Daikenchuto (DKT), a traditional Japanese formula, comprises four herbal medicines and is used for abdominal pain. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) and is characterized by colonic inflammation and chronic abdominal pain. The present study aimed to investigate whether DKT suppresses colonic hypersensitivity and inflammation associated with IBD in animal models.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley rats were administered 4% sodium dextran sulfate (DSS) or trinitrobenzene sulfate (TNBS) in the colon to establish UC or CD models, respectively. DKT and 5‐aminosalicylic acid (5‐ASA) were administered orally once a day from Days 3 to 7 after induction of colitis. On Day 7, visceral pain and inflammation were evaluated by measuring the visceromotor response (VMR) to colorectal distention (CRD) and inflammatory indicators, including histological score, length of leukocyte infiltration, MPO activity, and eosinophil count.

Results

DSS and TNBS increased VMR to CRD and the inflammation indicators. DKT, but not 5‐ASA, suppressed the VMR to CRD in DSS‐ and TNBS‐treated rats. DKT and 5‐ASA decreased the eosinophil count in both IBD models. In DSS‐treated rats, 5‐ASA, but not DKT, suppressed the MPO activity. In TNBS‐treated rats, neither 5‐ASA nor DKT suppressed MPO activity.

Conclusion

These results suggest that DKT is beneficial for abdominal pain associated with IBD. The anti‐inflammatory effect of DKT on IBD may involve inhibition of eosinophils. The mechanism of anti‐inflammatory effect of DKT partially differs from that of 5‐ASA. Coapplication of DKT and conventional medicine may produce a positive synergy effect for IBD treatment.
Synthesis of glycolurils and hydantoins by reaction of urea and 1, 2‐dicarbonyl compounds using etidronic acid as a “green catalyst”
Authors: Bakibaev Abdigali A. , Uhov Artur , S. Malkov Victor , Yu. Panshina Svetlana
Published: August 2020

Most of the known methods for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds have disadvantages, such as a long reaction time and aggressive conditions. We have developed a new, rather simple and efficient method for the synthesis of a number of glycoluryls and hydantoins in water using a etidronic acid (HEDP) as “Green catalyst.” So, for the first time, the condensation reaction of ureas with 1, 2‐dicarbonyl compounds was carried out in the presence of HEDP. Also based on NMR studies, a chemism of these reactions, which is stepwise, is proposed. It has been established that the optimal conditions for the synthesis of glycoluryls and hydantoins using HEDP are: temperature 80°C‐90°C, 40‐20 minutes, and the ratio of urea and HEDP is 1:1. In all cases, the remaining aqueous filtrate containing HEDP after the reaction can be reused for other cycles synthesis of glycoluril and other compounds, because HEDP is not converted during the reaction.
Low‐Field MRI of Stroke: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Bhat Seema S. , Fernandes Tiago T. , Poojar Pavan , da Silva Ferreira Marta , Rao Padma Chennagiri , Hanumantharaju Madigondanahalli Chikkamaraiah , Ogbole Godwin , Nunes Rita G. , Geethanath Sairam
Published: August 2020

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. The reasons for increased stroke burden in developing countries are inadequately controlled risk factors resulting from poor public awareness and inadequate infrastructure. Computed tomography and MRI are common neuroimaging modalities used to assess stroke with diffusion‐weighted MRI, in particular, being the recommended choice for acute stroke imaging. However, access to these imaging modalities is primarily restricted to major cities and high‐income groups. In the case of stroke, the time‐window of treatment to limit the damage is of a few hours and needs a point‐of‐care diagnosis. A low‐cost MR system typically achieved at the ultra‐low‐ and very‐low‐field would meet the need for a geographically accessible and portable solution. We review studies focused on accessible stroke imaging and recent developments in MR methodologies, including hardware, to image at low fields. We hypothesize that in the absence of a formal, rapid stroke triaging system, the value of timely on‐site delivery of the scanner to the stroke patient can be significant. To this end, we discuss multiple recent hardware and methods developments in the low‐field regime. Our review suggests a compelling need to explore further the trade‐offs between high signal, contrast, and accessibility at low fields in low‐income communities.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

6
COVID‐19 Pandemic – considerations and challenges for the management of medical imaging departments in Queensland
Authors: Eastgate Patrick , Neep Michael J. , Steffens Tom , Westerink Adam
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this commentary was to outline several key considerations and challenges for medical imaging departments during a global pandemic. Five public hospital medical imaging departments were identified in South‐East Queensland, Australia, to provide insight into their response to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Common themes were identified, with the four considered most pertinent documented in this commentary. Similar operational considerations and challenges were identified amongst all sites. This commentary intends to serve as a starting point for medical imaging departments in considering the planning and implementation of services in a pandemic scenario.
Punicalagin is a neuraminidase inhibitor of influenza viruses
Authors: Li Ping , Du Ruikun , Chen Zinuo , Wang Yanyan , Zhan Peng , Liu Xinyong , Kang Dongwei , Chen Zhaoyu , Zhao Xiujuan , Wang Lin , Rong Lijun , Cui Qinghua
Published: August 2020

Influenza A virus (IAV) causes great morbidity and mortality worldwide every year. However, there are only a limited number of drugs clinically available against IAV infection. Further, emergence of drug‐resistant strains can render those drugs ineffective. Thus there is an unmet medical need to develop new anti‐influenza agents. In this study, we show that punicalagin from plants possesses strong anti‐influenza activity with a low micromolar IC50 value in tissue culture. Using a battery of bioassays such as single‐cycle replication assay, neuraminidase (NA) inhibition assay, and virus yield reduction assay, we demonstrate that the primary mechanism of action (MOA) of punicalagin is the NA‐mediated viral release. Moreover, punicalagin can inhibit replication of different strains of influenza A and B viruses, including oseltamivir‐resistant virus (NA/H274Y), indicating that punicalagin is a broad spectrum antiviral against both IAV and IBV. Further, although punicalagin targets NA like oseltamivir, it has a different MOA. These results suggest that punicalagin is an influenza NA inhibitor that may be further developed as a novel antiviral against influenza viruses.
Downscaling of seasonal ensemble forecasts to the convection‐permitting scale over the Horn of Africa using the WRF model
Authors: Mori Paolo , Schwitalla Thomas , Ware Markos Budusa , Warrach‐Sagi Kirsten , Wulfmeyer Volker
Published: August 2020

The new SEAS5 global ensemble forecast system was dynamically downscaled over the Horn of Africa for summer (June‐July‐August) 2018. For this purpose, a multi‐physics ensemble was designed with a grid increment of 3 km and without any intermediate nest based on the Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF). The WRF and the SEAS5 model output were compared with each other and reference datasets to assess the biases in 4 different regions of Ethiopia. Also, the WRF ensemble variability was investigated in relation to model parameterization and lateral boundary conditions. Over the summer, the SEAS5 has a positive temperature bias of 0.17°C compared to ECMWF analysis average for the study domain, while the WRF bias is +1.14°C. Concerning precipitation, the WRF model had average accumulated values of 264 mm, compared to 248 mm for SEAS5 and 236 mm for the observations. Over south Ethiopia, however, the downscaling produced over 50% more precipitation than the other datasets. The maximum northward extension of the tropical rain belt was reduced by about 2° in both models when compared to observations. Downscaling increased reliability for precipitation, correcting the SEAS5 underdispersion: ensemble spread for precipitation was increased by about 70% in the WRF ensemble in three of the four Ethiopian sub‐regions, whereas the very dry Somali region remained unaffected. The WRF ensemble analysis revealed that the ensemble spread is mainly caused by the perturbed boundary conditions, as their effect is often 50% larger than the physics‐induced variability in the mountainous part of Ethiopia for precipitation and temperature.
High‐resolution dynamically downscaled rainfall and temperature projections for ecological life zones within Puerto Rico and for the U.S. Virgin Islands
Authors: Bowden Jared H. , Terando Adam J. , Misra Vasu , Wootten Adrienne , Bhardwaj Amit , Boyles Ryan , Gould William , Collazo Jaime A. , Spero Tanya L.
Published: August 2020

The weather research and forecasting (WRF) model and a combination of the regional spectral model (RSM) and the Japanese Meteorological Agency Non‐Hydrostatic Model (NHM) were used to dynamically downscale selected CMIP5 global climate models to provide 2‐km projections with hourly model output for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Two 20‐year time slices were downscaled for historical (1986–2005) and future (2041–2060) periods following RCP8.5. Projected changes to mean and extreme temperature and precipitation were quantified for Holdridge life zones within Puerto Rico and for the U.S. Virgin Islands. The evaluation reveals a persistent cold bias for all islands in the U.S. Caribbean, a dry bias across Puerto Rico, and a wet bias on the windward side of mountains within the U.S. Virgin Islands. Despite these biases, model simulations show a robust drying pattern for all islands that is generally larger for Puerto Rico (25% annual rainfall reduction for some life zones) than the U.S. Virgin Islands (12% island average). The largest precipitation reductions are found during the more convectively active afternoon and evening hours. Within Puerto Rico, the model uncertainty increases for the wetter life zones, especially for precipitation. Across the life zones, both models project unprecedented maximum and minimum temperatures that may exceed 200 days annually above the historical baseline with only small changes to the frequency of extreme rainfall. By contrast, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, there is no consensus on the location of the largest drying relative to the windward and leeward side of the islands. However, the models project the largest increases in maximum temperature on the southern side of St. Croix and in higher elevations of St. Thomas and St. John.
Nanotechnology and Osteoarthritis. Part 1: Clinical landscape and opportunities for advanced diagnostics
Authors: Lawson Taylor B. , Mäkelä Janne T.A. , Klein Travis , Snyder Brian D. , Grinstaff Mark W.
Published: August 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease of the entire joint, often triggered by cartilage injury, mediated by a cascade of inflammatory pathways involving a complex interplay among metabolic, genetic, and enzymatic factors that alter the biochemical composition, microstructure, and biomechanical performance. Clinically, OA is characterized by degradation of the articular cartilage, thickening of the subchondral bone, inflammation of the synovium, and degeneration of ligaments that in aggregate reduce joint function and diminish quality of life. OA is the most prevalent joint disease, affecting 140 million people worldwide; these numbers are only expected to increase, concomitant with societal and financial burden of care. We present a two‐part review encompassing the applications of nanotechnology to the diagnosis and treatment of OA. Herein, part 1 focuses on OA treatment options and advancements in nanotechnology for the diagnosis of OA and imaging of articular cartilage, while part 2 (10.1002/jor.24842) summarizes recent advances in drug delivery, tissue scaffolds, and gene therapy for the treatment of OA. Specifically, part 1 begins with a concise review of the clinical landscape of OA, along with current diagnosis and treatments. We next review nanoparticle contrast agents for minimally invasive detection, diagnosis, and monitoring of OA via magnetic resonace imaging, computed tomography, and photoacoustic imaging techniques as well as for probes for cell tracking. We conclude by identifying opportunities for nanomedicine advances, and future prospects for imaging and diagnostics.
Reaming of femoral fractures with different reaming irrigator aspirator systems shows distinct effects on cardiac function after experimental polytrauma
Authors: Lackner Ina , Weber Birte , Miclau Theodore , Holzwarth Nina , Baur Meike , Gebhard Florian , Teuben Michel , Halvachizadeh Sascha , Cinelli Paolo , Pfeifer Roman , Lipiski Miriam , Cesarovic Nikola , Haffner‐Luntzer Melanie , Pape Hans‐Christoph , Kalbitz Miriam ,   TREAT Research Group
Published: August 2020

Cardiac injuries are recorded after multiple trauma and are associated with a poor patient outcome. Reaming prior to locked intramedullary nailing is a frequently used technique to stabilize femoral diaphysis fractures. However, in polytraumatized patients, complications such as fat emboli and acute respiratory distress syndrome have been associated with reaming. The reaming irrigator aspirator (RIA) system provides concomitant irrigation and suction of the intramedullary contents, and should, therefore, reduce reaming‐associated complications. The aim of the study was to investigate cardiac function after multiple trauma with regard to two different RIA devices (RIAI vs RIAII). 15 male pigs were included in the study. Pigs received either sham treatment or multiple trauma (chest trauma, femur fracture, liver laceration, and hemorrhagic shock), followed by intramedullary nailing after reaming with either the RIAI or RIAII system (RIAII: reduced diameter of the reamer, improved control of irrigation and suction). Cardiac function was assessed by transesophageal echocardiography and systemic inflammation as well as local cardiac damage examined. Pigs of both treatment groups showed impaired cardiac function, valvular insufficiency, and cardiac damage. Systemic inflammation and local cardiac alterations were observed which might contribute to early myocardial damage in vivo. Multiple trauma including long‐bone fracture and subsequent intramedullary reaming induces cardiac dysfunction and valvular insufficiency, which might be linked to both mechanical cardiac injury and increased systemic inflammation. 6 hours after trauma there are less differences between RIAI and RIAII treatment with regard to post‐traumatic cardiac consequences in multiple injured pigs, indicating no beneficial effect of RIAII over RIAI.
FDA public workshop: Orthopaedic sensing, measuring, and advanced reporting technology (SMART) devices
Authors: Baumann Andrew P. , O'Neill Colin , Owens Michael C. , Weber Stephen C. , Sivan Shiril , D'Amico Reid , Carmody Seth , Bini Stefano , Sawyer Aenor J. , Lotz Jeffrey C. , Goel Vijay , Dmitriev Anton E.
Published: August 2020

Traditional orthopaedic devices do not communicate with physicians or patients post‐operatively. After implantation, follow‐up of traditional orthopaedic devices is generally limited to episodic monitoring. However, the orthopaedic community may be shifting towards incorporation of smart technology. Smart technology in orthopaedics is a term that encompasses a wide range of potential applications. Smart orthopaedic implants offer the possibility of gathering data and exchanging it with an external reader. They incorporate technology that enables automated sensing, measuring, processing, and reporting of patient or device parameters at or near the implant. While including advanced technology in orthopaedic devices has the potential to benefit patients, physicians, and the scientific community, it may also increase the patient risks associated with the implants. Understanding the benefit‐risk profile of new smart orthopaedic devices is critical to ensuring their safety and effectiveness. The 2018 FDA public workshop on orthopaedic sensing, measuring, and advanced reporting technology (SMART) devices was held on April 30, 2018, at the FDA White Oak Campus in Silver Spring, MD with the goal of fostering a collaborative dialogue amongst the orthopaedic community. Workshop attendees discussed four key areas related to smart orthopaedic devices: engineering and technology considerations, clinical and patient perspectives, cybersecurity, and regulatory considerations. The workshop presentations and associated discussions highlighted the need for the orthopaedic community to collectively craft a responsible path for incorporating smart technology in musculoskeletal disease care.