bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Customizable, biocompatible implants for dorsal nasal augmentation: An in vivo pilot study of eight polylactic acid scaffold designs
Authors: O'Connell Gillian M. , Vernice Nicholas , Matavosian Alicia A. , Slyker Leigh , Bender Ryan J. , Dong Xue , Bonassar Lawrence J. , Shin James , Spector Jason A.
Published: June 2024

Augmentation of the nasal dorsum often requires implantation of structural material. Existing methods include autologous, cadaveric or alloplastic materials and injectable hydrogels. Each of these options is associated with considerable limitations. There is an ongoing need for precise and versatile implants that produce long‐lasting craniofacial augmentation. Four separate polylactic acid (PLA) dorsal nasal implant designs were 3D‐printed. Two implants had internal PLA rebar of differing porosities and two were designed as “shells” of differing porosities. Shell designs were implanted without infill or with either minced or zested processed decellularized ovine cartilage infill to serve as a “biologic rebar”, yielding eight total treatment groups. Scaffolds were implanted heterotopically on rat dorsa (N = 4 implants per rat) for explant after 3, 6, and 12 months followed by volumetric, histopathologic, and biomechanical analysis. Low porosity implants with either minced cartilage or PLA rebar infill had superior volume retention across all timepoints. Overall, histopathologic and immunohistochemical analysis showed a resolving inflammatory response with an M1/M2 ratio consistently favoring tissue regeneration over the study course. However, xenograft cartilage showed areas of degradation and pro‐inflammatory infiltrate contributing to volume and contour loss over time. Biomechanical analysis revealed all constructs had equilibrium and instantaneous moduli higher than human septal cartilage controls. Biocompatible, degradable polymer implants can induce healthy neotissue ingrowth resulting in guided soft tissue augmentation and offer a simple, customizable and clinically‐translatable alternative to existing craniofacial soft tissue augmentation materials. PLA‐only implants may be superior to combination PLA and xenograft implants due to contour irregularities associated with cartilage degradation.
Molecular epidemiology and risk factors associated with BK and JC polyomavirus urinary shedding after kidney allograft
Authors: Demey Baptiste , Aubry Aurélien , Descamps Véronique , Morel Virginie , Le My Hanh Hillary , Presne Claire , Brazier François , Helle François , Brochot Etienne
Published: June 2024

Polyomaviruses BK (BKPyV) and JC (JCPyV), belonging to the Polyomaviridae, are responsible for human pathologies. In kidney transplant recipients, BKPyV replication can lead to irreversible nephron damage whereas JCPyV replication remains asymptomatic. Concomitant replication is rare and potential competition between the infections has been described. The aim of this retrospective case‐control study was to describe the molecular epidemiology and risk factors associated with BKPyV and JCPyV replication in a cohort of kidney transplant recipients. In total, 655 urine samples from 460 patients were tested for BKPyV and JCPyV DNA. Positive samples were submitted to strain genotyping. Demographic and clinical characteristics were also compared. Isolated JCPyV and BKPyV was found in 16.5% and 23.3% of patients, respectively; co‐replication was rare (3.9%). BKPyV strains Ib‐2, Ib‐1, and IVc‐2 were the most prevalent. JCPyV strains mostly belonged to genotypes 4 and 1B. During follow‐up, JCPyV shedding significantly reduced the risk of BKPyV DNAuria, with an odds ratio of 0.57 (95% confidence interval: 0.35–0.99), and was associated with better prognosis than BKPyV replication, based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate. Molecular epidemiology of BKPyV and JCPyV strains in our region was similar to previous studies. This study suggests that JCPyV is benign and appears to limit damaging BKPyV replication. JCPyV DNAuria screening could thus be a useful strategy to predict BKPyV‐related outcomes.
‘You can be as vigilant as you can, yet they make their way in’: A descriptive study of parent and caregiver perspectives towards keeping children safe from button batteries
Authors: Girardi Anna M. , Long David N. , Austin Gavin
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Button batteries pose a significant threat to young children, and parents and caregivers play an important role in keeping children safe from button batteries, especially in the home environment. However, little is known regarding parent or caregiver perspectives on button battery safety, in particular, the threat they pose to children. The aim of this study was to examine perspectives on button battery safety to enable tailored prevention strategies and to examine parent and caregiver perspectives on button battery safety in the home.

Methods

One hundred and seventy‐four parents and caregivers of children aged 0–5 completed a cross‐sectional online survey. Distribution occurred via social media. The survey contained multiple‐choice questions pertaining to button battery knowledge and attitudes.

Results

Most respondents recognised the dangers of button battery ingestion, yet only 37% knew of button battery ingestion symptoms. While 68% knew of household items containing button batteries, 21% were aware of product‐recall information sources. Approximately 64% understood immediate post‐ingestion steps, but only 31% were familiar with first‐aid procedures. From an attitudinal standpoint, 95% understood the importance of child supervision around button batteries, 78% prioritised battery safety in toy purchases, and 17% found current safety labels unsatisfactory. This study provides a foundation for ongoing investigation of parent and caregiver perspectives on button battery home safety.

Conclusion

Ongoing, comprehensive education and public‐safety campaigns are needed to rectify gaps in knowledge regarding button battery safety, and to reduce the risk of button battery ingestion in children.
Incidence and geographic differences in keratinocyte carcinoma and Bowen's disease in office‐based dermatological practice between 2013 and 2022: A nationwide Danish registry‐based study
Authors: Sieborg Johan , Haedersdal Merete , Lei Ulrikke , Sølvsten Henrik , Olesen Anne Braae , Vinding Gabrielle Randskov , Lamberg Anna Lei , Egeberg Alexander , Wenande Emily
Published: June 2024

Background

Rates of keratinocyte carcinoma (KC) across Europe are impacted by population demographics and geography. Regional differences in KC occurrence exist, but few European studies investigate incidences of specific subtypes in the secondary healthcare sector on a national level.

Objectives

To determine geographical differences in incidence rate and lifetime risk of KC subtypes across Denmark, including nodular and superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and the KC precursor, Bowen's disease (BD), identified in office‐based dermatological practice.

Methods

Based on a nationwide registry (The Danish Skin Cancer Registry), all patients in Denmark's five regions with a histologically‐ or clinically verified KC or BD registered in a state‐funded office‐based dermatology practice between 2013 and 2022 were included. Trends in national‐ and region‐specific age and sex standardised tumour incidence rates (STIR) were calculated. Further, national lifetime risk of each tumour subtype was estimated.

Results

Between 2013 and 2022, the combined STIR for KC/BD rose 172% nationally from 180 to 489 per 100,000 person‐years (PY). This increase reflected rising rates of nodular BCC, SCC, and BD, while superficial BCC incidence was relatively stable. Regional differences in STIR for combined KC/BD were observed, with the Capital Region and North Jutland generally demonstrating higher rates than Zealand, Southern‐ and Central Denmark (e.g., North Jutland vs. Southern Denmark: 714 vs. 405/100,000PY). While the estimated lifetime risk of developing at least one KC or BD tumour was 21.8%, risk varied with tumour subtype, resulting in subtype‐specific risks of 16.4%, 5.1%, 1.9% and 1.3% for nodular BCC, superficial BCC, SCC, and BD, respectively.

Conclusions

In Denmark's secondary dermatological care sector, incidence of nodular BCC, SCC and BD continues to rise with an overall lifetime risk nearing 22%. While KC incidence is increasing in Denmark, the study detected differences in geographical trends and rate increases of specific tumour subtypes.
Designing count‐based studies in a world of hierarchical models
Authors: Latif Quresh S. , Valente Jonathon J. , Johnston Alison , Davis Kayla L. , Fogarty Frank A. , Green Adam W. , Jones Gavin M. , Leu Matthias , Michel Nicole L. , Pavlacky David C. , Rigby Elizabeth A. , Rushing Clark S. , Sanderlin Jamie S. , Tingley Morgan W. , Zhao Qing
Published: June 2024

Advances in hierarchical modeling have improved estimation of ecological parameters from count data, especially those quantifying population abundance, distribution, and dynamics by explicitly accounting for observation processes, particularly incomplete detection. Even hierarchical models that account for incomplete detection, however, cannot compensate for data limitations stemming from poorly planned sampling. Ecologists therefore need guidance for planning count‐based studies that follow established sampling theory, collect appropriate data, and apply current modeling approaches to answer their research questions. We synthesize available literature relevant to guiding count‐based studies. Considering the central historical and ongoing contributions of avian studies to ecological knowledge, we focus on birds as a case study for this review, but the basic principles apply to all populations whose members are sufficiently observable to be counted. The sequence of our review represents the thought process in which we encourage ecologists to engage 1) the research question(s) and population parameters to measure, 2) sampling design, 3) analytical framework, 4) temporal design, and 5) survey protocol. We also provide 2 hypothetical demonstrations of these study plan components representing different research questions and study systems. Mirroring the structure of hierarchical models, we suggest researchers primarily focus on the ecological processes of interest when designing their approach to sampling, and wait to consider logistical constraints of data collection and observation processes when developing the survey protocol. We offer a broad framework for researchers planning count‐based studies, while pointing to relevant literature elaborating on particular tools and concepts.
How Does Lacking a Home Program Impact Otolaryngology Applicants?
Authors: Tu Leona J. , Benjamin William J. , Lenze Nicholas R. , Mihalic Angela P. , Kupfer Robbi A. , Malekzadeh Sonya
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To compare otolaryngology interview and match outcomes between applicants with and without home residency programs.

Methods

Otolaryngology applicants from US allopathic medical schools during the 2019–2023 cycles who responded to the Texas Seeking Transparency in Application to Residency (STAR) survey were identified. Students were stratified based upon whether their medical school had an affiliated otolaryngology residency program. The primary outcomes were number of interviews and match rate. Wilcoxon‐rank sum and χ2 testing was used to assess associations between home program status and interview and match outcomes.

Results

Of the 633 fourth‐year medical students applying to otolaryngology during the 2019–2023 application cycles, 89 had no home program (NHP) and 544 had a home program (HP). Applicants with NHP completed significantly more away rotations than applicants with a HP (2.2 vs. 1.5; p < 0.01). There was no difference in mean number of applications submitted between applicants with NHP and applicants with a HP. However, applicants with a HP received a significantly greater number of interviews (14.7 vs. 11.8; p < 0.01), attended more interviews (12.4 vs. 11.3; p = 0.02), attended a lower percentage of their offered interviews (84.4% vs. 95.8%), and had a higher match rate (81.8% vs. 70.8%; p = 0.02) than applicants with NHP. Applicants with NHP interviewed at (1.9 vs. 1.3; p < 0.01) and matched at (33.7% vs. 23.9%; p = 0.048) significantly more away rotation institutions than applicants with a HP.

Conclusion

Applicants with NHP received fewer interviews and had lower match rates. Away rotations may be especially important for applicants with NHP.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:4494–4500, 2024
Development of a Novel Airway‐Exchange Broncholaryngoscope
Authors: Boles Roger W. , Kim Wihan , O'Dell Karla
Published: June 2024

Objective

The purpose of this project was to develop a novel airway‐exchange broncholaryngoscope (AEBLScope) to improve the efficiency and accuracy of airway‐exchange procedures.

Methods

The AEBLScope was designed to combine a bronchoscope and airway‐exchange catheter (AEC) into a single device and to reduce the blind placement of AECs. The prototype was constructed by modifying an existing distal‐chip bronchoscope. A custom AEC was procured to fit concentrically over the flexible portion of the scope. The catheter was connected to the scope handpiece by a customized push–pull locking attachment. The AEBLScope was used to perform airway‐exchange procedures with both tracheostomy and endotracheal tubes using two different airway models. Experimental procedures were recorded with still photography to evaluate the exchange of tubes and placement of AECs.

Results

In two airway models using the AEBLScope, both tracheostomy and endotracheal tubes were successfully exchanged on first‐pass attempt, and AECs were accurately placed under visual guidance.

Conclusion

The AEBLScope combines a bronchoscope and AEC into a single tool. Based on these first results, this novel scope has the potential to perform airway‐exchange procedures more safely compared with standard procedures by increasing the accuracy of placement, decreasing procedural time, and reducing the morbidity and mortality that can occur from blind placement of AECs.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:4488–4493, 2024
Novel Sprayable Antioxidative Dressing Based on Fullerene and Curdlan for Accelerating Chronic Wound Healing
Authors: Pan Yiwen , Qi Yuxuan , Fei Chenglong , Feng Zihang , Ma Yuguo , Wang Chunru , Han Jingfen
Published: June 2024

The effective treatment of chronic wounds represents a critical global medical challenge demanding urgent attention. Persistent inflammation, driven by an excess of reactive oxygen radicals, sets in motion a detrimental cycle leading to chronic wounds and impeding the natural healing process. This study develops a sprayable wound dressing by covalently grafting amino fullerene to carboxymethylated curdlan (CMC‐C). This novel dressing exhibits excellent biocompatibility, antioxidant, and reactive oxygen species scavenging properties. Furthermore, it demonstrates a targeted affinity for HEK‐a cells, efficiently reducing the inflammatory response while promoting cell proliferation and migration in vitro. Moreover, the animal experiment investigations reveal that CMC‐C significantly accelerates chronic wounds healing by regulating the inflammatory process, promoting collagen deposition, and improving vascularization. These results demonstrate the potential of the sprayable dressing (CMC‐C) in curing the healing of chronic wounds through the modulation of the inflammatory microenvironment. Overall, the sprayable hydrogel dressing based on water‐soluble derivative of fullerene and curdlan emerges as a potential approach for clinical applications in the treatment of chronic wounds.
AURKB targets DHX9 to promote hepatocellular carcinoma progression via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway
Authors: Zhu Guoqing , Luo Laihui , He Yongzhu , Xiao Yongqiang , Cai Ziwei , Tong Weilai , Deng Wei , Xie Jin , Zhong Yanxin , Hu Zhigao , Shan Renfeng
Published: June 2024

Aurora kinase B (AURKB) is known to play a carcinogenic role in a variety of cancers, but its underlying mechanism in liver cancer is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of AURKB in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its underlying molecular mechanism. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that AURKB was significantly overexpressed in HCC tissues and cell lines, and its high expression was associated with a poorer prognosis in HCC patients. Furthermore, downregulation of AURKB inhibited HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, induced apoptosis, and caused cell cycle arrest. Moreover, AURKB downregulation also inhibited lung metastasis of HCC. AURKB interacted with DExH‐Box helicase 9 (DHX9) and targeted its expression in HCC cells. Rescue experiments further demonstrated that AURKB targeting DHX9 promoted HCC progression through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Our results suggest that AURKB is significantly highly expressed in HCC and correlates with patient prognosis. Targeting DHX9 with AURKB promotes HCC progression via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
Cinnamaldehyde targets SarA to enhance β‐lactam antibiotic activity against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Li Jianguo , Lu Tingyin , Chu Yuefei , Zhang Yuejun , Zhang Jing , Fu Wenzhen , Sun Jian , Liu Yahong , Liao Xiao‐Ping , Zhou Yu‐Feng
Published: June 2024

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a current global public health problem due to its increasing resistance to the most recent antibiotic therapies. One critical approach is to develop ways to revitalize existing antibiotics. Here, we show that the phytogenic compound cinnamaldehyde (CIN) and β‐lactam antibiotic combinations can functionally synergize and resensitize clinical MRSA isolates to β‐lactam therapy and inhibit MRSA biofilm formation. Mechanistic studies indicated that the CIN potentiation effect on β‐lactams was primarily the result of inhibition of the mecA expression by targeting the staphylococcal accessory regulator sarA. CIN alone or in combination with β‐lactams decreased sarA gene expression and increased SarA protein phosphorylation that impaired SarA binding to the mecA promoter element and downregulated virulence genes such as those encoding biofilm, α‐hemolysin, and adhesin. Perturbation of SarA–mecA binding thus interfered with PBP2a biosynthesis and this decreased MRSA resistance to β‐lactams. Furthermore, CIN fully restored the anti‐MRSA activities of β‐lactam antibiotics in vivo in murine models of bacteremia and biofilm infections. Together, our results indicated that CIN acts as a β‐lactam adjuvant and can be applied as an alternative therapy to combat multidrug‐resistant MRSA infections.
Skin dose investigations on a 0.5 T parallel rotating biplanar linac‐MR using Monte Carlo simulations and measurements
Authors: Oliver Patricia A. K. , Yip Eugene , Tari Shima Y. , Wachowicz Keith , Reynolds Michael , Burke Ben , Warkentin Brad , Fallone B. Gino
Published: June 2024

Background

The Alberta rotating biplanar linac‐MR has a 0.5 T magnetic field parallel to the beamline. When developing a new linac‐MR system, interactions of charged particles with the magnetic field necessitate careful consideration of skin dose and tissue interface effects.

Purpose

To investigate the effect of the magnetic field on skin dose using measurements and Monte Carlo (MC) simulations.

Methods

We develop an MC model of our linac‐MR, which we validate by comparison with ion chamber measurements in a water tank. Additionally, MC simulation results are compared with radiochromic film surface dose measurements on solid water. Variations in surface dose as a function of field size are measured using a parallel plate ion chamber in solid water. Using an anthropomorphic computational phantom with a 2 mm‐thick skin layer, we investigate dose distributions resulting from three beam arrangements. Magnetic field on and off scenarios are considered for all measurements and simulations.

Results

For a 20 × 20 cm2 field size, (the minimum dose to the hottest contiguous 0.2 cc volume) for the top 2 mm of a simple water phantom is 72% when the magnetic field is on, compared to 34% with magnetic field off (values are normalized to the central axis dose maximum). Parallel plate ion chamber measurements demonstrate that the relative increase in surface dose due to the magnetic field decreases with increasing field size. For the anthropomorphic phantom, (minimum skin dose in the hottest 1 × 1 × 1 cm3 cube) shows relative increases of 20%–28% when the magnetic field is on compared to when it is off. With magnetic field off, skin is 71%, 56%, and 21% for medial‐lateral tangents, anterior‐posterior beams, and a five‐field arrangement, respectively. For magnetic field on, the corresponding skin values are 91%, 67%, and 25%.

Conclusions

Using a validated MC model of our linac‐MR, surface doses are calculated in various scenarios. MC‐calculated skin dose varies depending on field sizes, obliquity, and the number of beams. In general, the parallel linac‐MR arrangement results in skin dose enhancement due to charged particles spiraling along magnetic field lines, which impedes lateral motion away from the central axis. Nonetheless, considering the results presented herein, treatment plans can be designed to minimize skin dose by, for example, avoiding oblique beams and using a larger number of fields.
Metabolic syndrome is common in adults with 5q‐spinal muscular atrophy and impacts quality of life and fatigue
Authors: Bjelica Bogdan , Wohnrade Camilla , Osmanovic Alma , Schreiber‐Katz Olivia , Schuppner Ramona , Greten Stephan , Petri Susanne
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Aims

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a multisystem disorder. We assessed metabolic syndrome (MetS) prevalence in adults with SMA and its association with motor function, quality of life (QoL), fatigue, and depression.

Methods

MetS was diagnosed using 2009 consensus criteria. Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE), Revised Upper Limb Module (RULM), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and 36‐Item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36) were recorded and correlations between muscle function, depression, fatigue, QoL, and MetS were analyzed.

Results

We included 36 individuals (18 males; mean age: 38.7 ± 14.6 years). MetS was present in 25.0%. The most common component of MetS was central obesity (69.7%). Nearly half of the SMA individuals exhibited at least one abnormal lipid level result. Individuals with MetS more frequently were SMA type 3 (77.8% vs. 37.0%, p = .02) and had higher levels of fatigue (48.4 ± 6.7 vs. 39.5 ± 11.6, p = .03) than those without MetS. No associations of the presence of MetS with ambulatory status or HFMSE/RULM scores were observed. SMA individuals with MetS scored significantly lower in mental and social domains of QoL and total SF‐36 score (p = .04). We observed weak to moderate correlations between the presence of MetS and SMA type, presence of comorbidities, QoL, and fatigue.

Discussion

The frequency of MetS was modestly higher among adults with SMA than in the general population, particularly in SMA type 3. MetS was associated with reduced QoL and increased fatigue. Larger studies are needed to fully understand the significance of MetS in adults with SMA.
The hepatocyte epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway regulates the cellular interactome within the liver fibrotic niche
Authors: Gonzalez‐Sanchez Ester , Vaquero Javier , Caballero‐Diaz Daniel , Grzelak Jan , Fusté Noel P , Bertran Esther , Amengual Josep , Garcia‐Saez Juan , Martín‐Mur Beatriz , Gut Marta , Esteve‐Codina Anna , Alay Ania , Coulouarn Cedric , Calero‐Perez Silvia , Valdecantos Pilar , Valverde Angela M , Sánchez Aránzazu , Herrera Blanca , Fabregat Isabel
Published: June 2024

Liver fibrosis is the consequence of chronic liver injury in the presence of an inflammatory component. Although the main executors of this activation are known, the mechanisms that lead to the inflammatory process that mediates the production of pro‐fibrotic factors are not well characterized. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in hepatocytes is essential for the regenerative processes of the liver; however, its potential role in regulating the fibrotic niche is not yet clear. Our group generated a mouse model that expresses an inactive truncated form of the EGFR specifically in hepatocytes (ΔEGFR mice). Here, we have analyzed the response of WT and ΔEGFR mice to chronic treatment with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), which induces a pro‐inflammatory and fibrotic process in the liver. The results indicated that the hallmarks of liver fibrosis were attenuated in CCl4‐treated ΔEGFR mice when compared with CCl4‐treated WT mice, coinciding with a faster resolution of the fibrotic process and ameliorated damage. The absence of EGFR activity in hepatocytes induced changes in the pattern of immune cells in the liver, with a notable increase in the population of M2 macrophages, more related to fibrosis resolution, as well as in the population of lymphocytes related to eradication of the damage. Transcriptome analysis of hepatocytes, and secretome studies of extracellular media from in vitro experiments, allowed us to elucidate the specific molecular mechanisms regulated by EGFR that mediate hepatocyte production of both pro‐fibrotic and pro‐inflammatory mediators; these have consequences for the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, as well as for the immune microenvironment. Overall, our study uncovered novel mechanistic insights regarding EGFR kinase‐dependent actions in hepatocytes that reveal its key role in chronic liver damage. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Obsessive–compulsive disorder after traumatic injury to the right frontal and left temporal lobes: A case report
Authors: Yoshioka Daisuke , Yamanashi Takehiko , Hayashi Teruaki , Iwata Masaaki
Published: June 2024

Background

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common neuropsychiatric disorder affecting many behaviors in daily life. Hyperactivity of the fronto‐striato‐thalamic circuit via the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) is assumed to play a major role in the pathophysiology of OCD; however, its pathogenesis is not fully understood. Several reports have described the development of OCD after traumatic brain injury (TBI); however, the pathogenesis of post‐TBI OCD remains unknown. Moreover, patients with TBI often have a variety of sequelae, including cognitive dysfunction and mood disorders, which make the diagnosis and treatment of OCD more complex.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 17‐year‐old Japanese male who developed OCD after traffic trauma. The patient developed a fear of contamination and checking compulsion after injuring his right OFC and left temporal lobe when he ran into a running truck during a suicide attempt. We believe that the patient's fear of contamination can be diagnosed as true post‐TBI OCD. However, his memory impairment was significant, and we considered his checking compulsion to be strongly influenced by cognitive dysfunction due to TBI. We attempted behavioral therapy for OCD; however, sufficient results were not achieved because of the interference from the sequelae of TBI.

Conclusion

It is not rare for OCD symptoms to appear after TBI. Differentiating the OCD symptoms induced by brain injury or cognitive dysfunction associated with TBI is important to determine a treatment strategy.
Vitamin A deficiency triggers colonic methylation potentially impairing colonic neuron via downregulation SGK1/FOXO pathway
Authors: Tong Bei , Yan Junyan , Sun Zhujun , Luo Ruifang , Lin Fang , Hu Riqiang , Yang Ting , Wang Yuting , Chen Jie
Published: June 2024

DNA methylation is widely involved in the modification of intestinal function, but the methylation mechanism in the enteric nervous system has not been studied in vitamin A deficiency (VAD). Herein, we firstly found that in the VAD group, gastrointestinal transit time was delayed compared with the vitamin A normal (VAN) group. RNA sequencing between VAD and VAN rats identified enriched pathways associated with enteric nerves and methylation transferase complexes. Then expression levels of DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b) were validated to significant increase in the VAD group. Representative reduced bisulfate sequencing showed that the VAD rats had high levels of DNA methylation in promoters and exons compared with the VAN rats. A combined methylomic and transcriptomic analysis identified that methylation levels of Sgk1, a key gene associated with enteric neural development, were elevated in the VAD group, and the activity of the SGK1/FOXO signaling axis was reduced. Furthermore, the colonic neuronal morphology and synaptic architecture were impaired in the VAD offspring. Interestingly, the above alterations in the VAD group were alleviated by vitamin A (VA) supplementation in the early postnatal period. These data suggest that VAD triggers colonic hypermethylation, which probably downregulates the SGK1/FOXO signaling pathway to cause colonic transfer dysfunction.
Gas‐free initiation for free‐radical frontal polymerization through charge transfer complexes
Authors: Gary Daniel P. , Al Mahmud Md Abdullah , Dawson Madison G. , Pojman John A.
Published: June 2024

Frontal polymerization is a process in which a localized reaction zone propagates through the coupling of thermal transport and the Arrhenius kinetics of exothermic polymerization. Most initiators that have been used produce volatile by‐products, which create bubbles and voids. Tetraalkyl ammonium persulfates have been used but these require synthesis and do not have long shelf lives. A charge transfer complex (CTC) composed of an iodonium salt, and a phosphine compound has been identified as a gas‐free initiator for free‐radical thermal frontal polymerization. This CTC has 4‐(dimethylamino)phenyldiphenly phophine (DMAPDP) as the donor and p‐(octyloxyphenyl)phenyliodonium hexafluoroantimonate as the acceptor (IOC‐8). The CTC was tested with several acrylates, and all were found to support bubble‐free fronts. We determined the CTC mole ratio for some monomers at which the front velocity reaches a plateau.
Association between Ureaplasma colonization and bronchopulmonary dysplasia defined by different criteria in very low birth weight infants: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ji Fengjuan , Gu Xunke , Bao Yingying , Zhang Qi , Xu Chuncai , Zhu Jiajun
Published: June 2024

Objective

To study the association between Ureaplasma colonization and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) with different definitions in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed with VLBW infants admitted from January 2019 to October 2021. Neonates with a positive respiratory tract Ureaplasma culture were included in the study group. Control group infants, matched for gestational age (±1 week), birth weight (±100 g), and birth year, had a negative respiratory tract Ureaplasma culture during the same period. The primary outcomes included the incidence and severity of BPD, defined by various criteria.

Results

The study included 302 neonates (151 in the study group and 151 in the control group). After adjusting for confounders, Ureaplasma colonization was not associated with BPD as defined by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2001 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.820, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.362–1.860, p = .635). However, it was associated with BPD as defined by the NIH in 2018 (aOR: 2.490, 95% CI: 1.128–5.497, p = .024) and the Neonatal Research Network (NRN) in 2019 (aOR: 2.352, 95% CI: 1.077–5.134, p = .032). Additionally, VLBW infants with Ureaplasma colonization had a higher risk of moderate‐severe BPD according to the NIH 2001 (aOR: 2.352, 95% CI: 1.077–5.134, p = .032), NIH 2018 (aOR: 6.339, 95% CI: 1.686–23.836, p = .006), and NRN 2019 definitions (aOR: 3.542, 95% CI: 1.267–9.904, p = .016).

Conclusions

Ureaplasma colonization is not associated with BPD by the NIH 2001 definition, but is associated with an increased incidence by the NIH 2018 or NRN 2019 definitions.
Design and evaluation of an efficient mosquito trap
Authors: Wu Jing , Cai Lijun , Hu Ke , Cai Yiquan , Lai Zetian , Zhao Siyu , Liu Hongkai , Li Bin , Rong Yuchao , Gan Lu , Chen Xiao‐Guang
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Vector mosquito control is important for preventing and controlling mosquito‐borne infectious diseases. This study designed and developed a mosquito killer (MK) with a specific light wavelength, simulated human body temperature, human odor, and a photocatalyst to stimulate CO2 based on the physiological characteristics and ecological habits of mosquitoes. We tested the trapping effect of individual and multiple mosquito‐trapping elements of the MK through two‐way selection experiments and compared them with several commercial mosquito traps.

RESULTS

The 365 nm wavelength MK was significantly more effective than the 395 nm (Cx. quinquefasciatus: 62.00% vs. 34.25%; Ae. albopictus: 50.75% vs 45.00%, An. sinensis: 49.75% vs 39.00%). Mosquitoes captured by the MK with heaters at 365 nm were significantly more than those captured by the MK without heaters at 365 nm. A trap with a 365 nm wavelength, heating element, and lure showed significantly better capture effectiveness than MK with a 365 nm wavelength, heating element, but without lure (Cx. quinquefasciatus: 67.00% vs. 29.75%, Ae. albopictus: 60.25% vs 36.25%, An. sinensis: 49.75% vs 39.75%). The coated photocatalyst trap with a 365 nm wavelength, heating element, and lure showed significantly better capture effectiveness than the trap without coating (Cx. quinquefasciatus: 54.25% vs. 42.50%; Ae. albopictus: 53.50% vs 44.00%, An. sinensis: 50.00% vs 41.25%). This trap demonstrated a significantly better capture advantage for Cx. quinquefasciatus and Ae. albopictus compared to the three commercial products.

CONCLUSION

The developed mosquito trap with multiple attractant factors significantly enhanced the capture effectiveness of common mosquitoes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Stock returns and earnings persistence following equity financing and earnings announcement: Considering managerial characteristics
Authors: Chen Jing‐Chi , Liao Li‐Kai (Connie)
Published: June 2024

This study examines whether future stock returns and earnings persistence decline when a firm has issued equity within 1 month of its earnings announcement (post‐EA equity financing), considering managerial ability and overconfidence. The results show that when overconfident managers engage in post‐EA equity financing, buy‐and‐hold returns significantly decrease in the subsequent month and earnings persistence is low within the subsequent year. However, firms with overconfident, high‐ability managers do not experience lower returns following post‐EA equity financing and have larger earnings variability within the subsequent 3 years. The decline in returns in the month during post‐EA equity financing is more pronounced for firms with high financial constraints or low financial flexibility with overconfident managers. Overall, our results highlight the managerial traits of firms that engage in equity issuance after information release.
A Hydrogel‐coated Wood Membrane with Intelligent Oil Pollution Detection for Emulsion Separation
Authors: Chen Dafan , Bao Mutai , Ge Hongwei , Chen Xiuping , Ma Wen , Wang Zhining , Li Yiming
Published: June 2024

Considering the potential threats posed by oily wastewater to the ecosystem, it is urgently in demand to develop efficient, eco‐friendly, and intelligent oil/water separation materials to enhance the safety of the water environment. Herein, an intelligent hydrogel‐coated wood (PPT/PPy@DW) membrane with self‐healing, self‐cleaning, and oil pollution detection performances is fabricated for the controllable separation of oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions and water‐in‐oil (W/O) emulsions. The PPT/PPy@DW is prepared by loading polypyrrole (PPy) particles on the delignified wood (DW) membranes, further modifying the hydrogel layer as an oil‐repellent barrier. The layered porous structure and selective wettability endow PPT/PPy@DW with great separation performance for various O/W emulsions (≥98.69% for separation efficiency and ≈1000 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 for permeance). Notably, the oil pollution degree of PPT/PPy@DW can be monitored in real‐time based on the changed voltage generated during O/W emulsion separation, and the oil‐polluted PPT/PPy@DW can be self‐cleaned by soaking in water to recover its separation performance. The high affinity of PPT/PPy@DW for water makes it effective in trapping water from the mixed surfactant‐stabilized W/O emulsions. The prepared eco‐friendly and low‐cost multifunctional hydrogel wood membrane shows promising potential in on‐demand oil/water separation and provides new ideas for the functional improvement of new biomass oil/water separation membrane materials.
Lead Iodide Redistribution Enables In Situ Passivation for Blading Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells with 24.5% Efficiency
Authors: Wang Xin , Fang Jun , Li Sibo , Xie Guanshui , Lin Dongxu , Li Huan , Wang Daozeng , Huang Nuanshan , Peng Haichen , Qiu Longbin
Published: June 2024

Blade‐coating stands out as an alternative for fabricating scalable perovskite solar cells. However, it demands special control of the precursor composition regarding nucleation and crystallization and currently exhibits lower performance than the spin‐coating process. It is mainly the resulting film morphology and excess lead iodide (PbI2) distribution that influences the optoelectronic properties. Here, the effectiveness of introducing N‐Methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) to regulate the structure of the perovskite layer and the redistribution of PbI2 is found. The introduction of NMP leads to the accumulation of excess PbI2, mainly on the top surface, reducing residual PbI2 at the perovskite buried interface. This not only facilitates the passivation of perovskite grain boundaries but also eliminates the potential degradation of the PbI2 triggered by light illumination in the perovskite buried interface. The optimized NMP‐modified inverted perovskite solar cell achieves a champion efficiency of 24.5%, among the highest reported blade‐coated perovskite solar cells. Furthermore, 13.68 cm2 blading perovskite solar modules are fabricated and demonstrate an efficiency of up to 20.4%. These findings underscore that with proper modulation of precursor composition, blade‐coating can be a feasible and superior alternative for manufacturing high‐quality perovskite films, paving the way for their large‐scale applications in photovoltaic technology.
Zum Beultragverhalten von Kreiszylinderschalen aus hochfesten Stählen unter Axial‐ und Umfangsdruck
Authors: Azizi Esmaeil , Stranghöner Natalie , Mott Marcel , Ruff Daniel , Ummenhofer Thomas
Published: June 2024

Schalentragwerke in Stahlbauweise wurden in der Vergangenheit weitestgehend aus normalfesten Baustählen oder nichtrostenden austenitischen Stählen mit niedrigen Festigkeiten gefertigt. Vermehrt kommen allerdings hochfeste nichtrostende Duplex‐Stähle nach DIN EN 10088‐4, ‐5 zum Einsatz, z. B. in Biogasfermentern. Der Einsatz hochfester Stähle reduziert nicht nur den Materialeinsatz und die Fertigungskosten, sondern auch den Montageaufwand und erhöht somit die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit von Tank‐ und Silobehältern in Stahlbauweise. Eine Voraussetzung ist jedoch, dass das Stabilitätsversagen in Form von Schalenbeulen ausgeschlossen werden kann. Die europäischen Bemessungsnormen für Schalentragwerke DIN EN 1993‐1‐6, ‐4‐1, ‐4‐2 sind auf normalfeste Baustähle ausgelegt und berücksichtigen abschließende Nachweisformate weder für ring‐ und axialversteifte Kreiszylinderschalen noch für hochfeste Baustähle und nichtrostende Stähle mit einem bereits unterhalb der 0,2%‐Dehngrenze auftretenden nichtlinearen Materialverhalten. Im Rahmen des IGF‐Forschungsvorhabens Nr. 21719N „Tragverhalten axial‐ und ringversteifter Tank‐ und Silobehälter aus hochfesten (Duplex‐)Stählen und kaltzähen Druckbehälterstählen“ werden daher systematische Untersuchungen an (un‐)versteiften Kreiszylinderschalen am Institut für Metall‐ und Leichtbau (IML) der Universität Duisburg‐Essen (UDE) und an der Versuchsanstalt für Stahl, Holz und Steine (VAKA) am Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT) durchgeführt. Die ersten gewonnenen Erkenntnisse dieses Forschungsvorhabens werden hier vorgestellt.
Blood Coagulation Efficacy of Enzyme‐Modified Cassava Starch by α‐Amylase, Glucoamylase, and Their Combination
Authors: Hu Qian , Chitrakar Bimal , Li Zhaofeng , Gu Zhengbiao , Ban Xiaofeng , Hong Yan , Cheng Li , Li Caiming
Published: June 2024

Enzymatically modified starch offers a potential biodegradable coagulating agent. However, most of the research in this area mainly focuses on corn starch, leaving cassava starch underexplored. This study investigates the coagulation efficacy of cassava starch modified by α‐amylase (AA), glucoamylase (GA), and their combination. The results show that the dual‐enzyme modified starch demonstrates excellent coagulation performance, compared to the single‐enzyme counterparts as well as the unmodified native starch. It reduces the coagulation time of the whole blood by 3.47 min and exhibits a 90.1% increase in liquid absorption rate. The average micrometer‐level pore size and specific surface area (SBET) also increase by 1.72 µm and 9.37 m2 g−1, respectively. Furthermore, the coagulation time of enzyme‐modified starch displays a negative correlation with liquid absorption rate, average micrometer‐level pore size, and SBET. This suggests that larger pores efficiently guided blood into starch micropores, while higher SBET enhances the coagulation factor aggregation. Additionally, DSC results indicate a synergistic effect of AA and GA on cassava starch. This investigation presents a promising effect of dual‐enzyme on cassava starch for potential wound hemostasis applications.
Expert assessment of infiltration depth and recommendation of endoscopic resection technique in early Barrett cancer
Authors: Younis Fadi , Rösch Thomas , Beyna Torsten , Ebigbo Alanna , Faiss Siegbert , May Andrea , Pech Oliver , Dautel Philip , Anders Mario , Clauditz Till , Zimmermann‐Fraedrich Katharina , Sehner Susanne , Schachschal Guido
Published: June 2024

Background

Early Barrett cancer can be curatively treated by endoscopic resection. The choice of the resection technique, however—endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or submucosal dissection (ESD)—largely depends on the assumed infiltration depth as judged by the endoscopist. However, the accuracy of endoscopic diagnosis of the degree of cancer infiltration is not known.

Methods

Three to four high‐quality images (both in overview and close‐up) from 202 of early Barrett esophagus cancer cases (82% men, mean age 66.9 years) were selected from our endoscopy database (73.3% stage T1a and 26.7% in stage T1b). Images were shown to 9 Barrett esophagus experts, with patients' clinical data (age, sex, Barrett esophagus length) and biopsy results. The experts were asked to predict infiltration depth (T1b vs. T1a), and to suggest the appropriate endoscopic resection technique (EMR or ESD, or surgery). Interobserver variability (kappa values) was also determined for these parameters.

Results

Overall positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) to diagnose T1b versus T1a infiltration were 40.7% (95% CI: 36.7, 44.8) and 79.8% (95% CI: 77.5, 81.9), respectively; kappa value was 0.41. Paris classification (kappa 0.51) and suggested treatment also varied between experts. In a post hoc analysis, only the correlation between lesions classified as invisible or flat according to the Paris classification (IIB; 25% of all cases) and the suggested resection technique was better: In this subgroup, EMR was recommended in >80% of cases, with a high complete (basal R0) resection rate (mean of 88.1%).

Conclusions

Precise endoscopic distinction between mucosal and submucosal involvement of Barrett esophagus cancer by experts as a basis for choosing the resection technique has limited predictive values and high interobserver variability. It seems that mainly invisible/flat lesions may result in good resection outcomes when treated by EMR, but this stratification strategy has to be assessed in further studies.
The MAPK homolog, Smk1, promotes assembly of the glucan layer of the spore wall in S. cerevisiae
Authors: Lee‐Soety Julia Y. , Resch Gwendolyn , Rimal Abhimannyu , Johnson Erica S. , Benway Jonathan , Winter Edward
Published: June 2024

Smk1 is a MAPK homolog in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae that controls the postmeiotic program of spore wall assembly. During this program, haploid cells are surrounded by a layer of mannan and then a layer of glucan. These inner layers of the spore wall resemble the vegetative cell wall. Next, the outer layers consisting of chitin/chitosan and then dityrosine are assembled. The outer layers are spore‐specific and provide protection against environmental stressors. Smk1 is required for the proper assembly of spore walls. However, the protective properties of the outer layers have limited our understanding of how Smk1 controls this morphogenetic program. Mutants lacking the chitin deacetylases, Cda1 and Cda2, form spores that lack the outer layers of the spore wall. In this study, cda1,2∆ cells were used to demonstrate that Smk1 promotes deposition of the glucan layer of the spore wall through the partially redundant glucan synthases Gsc2 and Fks3. Although Gsc2 is localized to sites of spore wall assembly in the wild type, it is mislocalized in the mother cell cytoplasm in the smk1∆ mutant. These findings suggest that Smk1 controls assembly of the spore wall by regulating the localization of Gsc2 during sporogenesis.
Top-philic ALP phenomenology at the LHC: the elusive mass-window
Authors: Blasi Simone , Maltoni Fabio , Mariotti Alberto , Mimasu Ken , Pagani Davide , Tentori Simone
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We study the LHC phenomenology of an Axion Like Particle (ALP) that couples only derivatively with the top quark at tree level. We inspect the radiatively induced couplings with the SM fermions and (gauge) bosons and the associated production and decay mechanisms of the ALP. We focus on the most challenging mass window that remains open for a top-philic ALP, i.e., the range between tens and hundreds of GeV. Not only ALP production processes but also virtual ALP contributions to final states with top quarks are considered in detail. We show how searches through resonant production, such as ALP production in association with a $$ t\overline{t} $$
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pair, are complementary to precision measurements of $$ t\overline{t} $$
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and $$ t\overline{t}t\overline{t} $$
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final states, the latter being competitive or even more powerful for a top-philic ALP in this mass window. Finally, we explore the scenario where the top-philic ALP acts as a mediator to a dark-matter sector, resulting in missing energy signatures at the LHC. We find that the LHC constraints from $$ t\overline{t} $$
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, $$ t\overline{t}t\overline{t} $$
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t
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and ALP + jet production, together with those from $$ t\overline{t} $$
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+ ALP production, can already exclude a large fraction of the parameter space leading to the correct relic abundance.