bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analog-to-digital converters: a review of existing architectures and a new proposal for high resolution sensors
Authors: Bashir Saima , Hakim Najeeb-ud-din , Rather G.M.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

As technology advances the demand for an analog-to digital converter has increased, as every application demands a converter as per its parameters. Currently, work is done on improvement of data converters at three levels of design – architectural, circuit and physical level. This paper aims to review the work done in the field of analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) at architectural and circuit level and discusses the achievements in this field. Furthermore, a new architecture is proposed, which works at higher resolution and provides optimum design parameters at low power consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

A hybrid architecture combining the features of synthetic approximation register and sigma-delta ADC is presented. The validity of the proposed design at architectural level is verified using MATLAB SIMULINK simulations.

Findings

The design simulation was tested for a sinusoidal wave of 1 V at the test frequency of 60 Hz. The design consumes least power, and is found to yield an error of the order less than 10–3 V, thus providing highly accurate digital output.

Originality/value

The design is applicable in many applications including biomedical systems, Internet-of-Things and earthquake engineering. This architecture can be further optimized to obtain better performance parameters.
Do bone elasticity and postmortem interval affect forensic fractographic analyses?
Authors: Skinner Jessica , Langley Natalie , Joseph Malin , Herrick James , Brown Robert , Waletzki Brian , Goguen Peter , Shyamsunder Loukham , Rajan Subramaniam
Published: April 2023

Forensic fractographic features of bone reliably establish crack propagation in perimortem injuries. We investigated if similar fracture surface features characterize postmortem fractures. Experimentally induced peri‐ and postmortem fractures were used to assess if fractographic features vary as bone elasticity decreases during the postmortem interval (PMI). Thirty‐seven unembalmed, defleshed human femoral shafts from males and females aged 33–81 years were fractured at varying PMIs with a drop test frame using a three‐point bending setup and recorded with a high‐speed camera. Vital statistics, cause of death, PMI length, temperature, humidity, collagen percentage, water loss, fracture energy, and fractography scores were recorded for each sample. Results showed that fractographic features associated with perimortem fractures were expressed in PMIs up to 40,600 accumulated degree hours (ADH), or 60 warm weather days. Hackle was the most consistently expressed feature, occurring in all fractures regardless of ADH. The most variable characteristics were wake features (78.4%) and arrest ridges (70.3%). Collagen percentage did not correlate strongly with ADH (r = −0.04, p = 0.81); however, there was a strong significant correlation between ADH and water loss (r = 0.74, p < 0.001). Multinomial logistic regression showed no association between fractographic feature expression and ADH or collagen percentage. In conclusion, forensic fractographic features reliably determine initiation and directionality of crack propagation in experimentally induced PMIs up to 40,600 ADH, demonstrating the utility of this method into the recent postmortem interval. This expression of reliable fractographic features throughout the early PMI intimates these characteristics may not be useful standalone features for discerning peri‐ versus postmortem fractures.
Clinical impact of a novel lipoprotein apheresis treatment on no‐option chronic limb‐threatening ischemia: Result from the REDUCTION VISCOSITY study
Authors: Kojima Shunsuke , Nakama Tatsuya , Suzuki Toshihiko , Obunai Kotaro , Watanabe Hiroyuki
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Lipoprotein apheresis (LA) is a possible adjunct treatment for no‐option chronic limb‐threatening ischemia (CLTI). This study aimed to assess the impact of a novel LA for no‐option CLTI.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed 19 patients with no‐option CLTI treated using the novel LA. The primary outcome was a change in the skin perfusion pressure (SPP) after treatment with LA, and the secondary outcomes were changes in the viscosity‐related laboratory parameters.

Results

The wound‐healing rate was 68.4%. The SPP at 2–3 weeks after series of LA were significantly higher both in the dorsal (41 vs. 53 mmHg, p = 0.037) and plantar (50.0 vs. 61.0 mmHg, p = 0.018) sides, compared to those at baseline. The viscosity‐related laboratory markers were also significantly improved after the treatment; low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (57.0 vs. 43.0 mg/dL, p = 0.002), fibrinogen (333 vs. 258 mg/dL, p < 0.001), and C‐reactive protein (0.99 vs. 0.42 mg/dL, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The novel LA significantly increased the SPP and improved relevant laboratory findings.
Impact of COVID‐19 on maintenance peritoneal dialysis patients and providers: A review
Authors: Painter David F. , Vogt Braden , Lokhande Anagha , Berreta Rodrigo Saad , Shah Ankur D.
Published: April 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic exerted complex pressures on the nephrology community. Despite multiple prior reviews on acute peritoneal dialysis during the pandemic, the effects of COVID‐19 on maintenance peritoneal dialysis patients remain underexamined. This review synthesizes and reports findings from 29 total cases of chronic peritoneal dialysis patients with COVID‐19, encompassing 3 case reports, 13 case series, and 13 cohort studies. When available, data for patients with COVID‐19 on maintenance hemodialysis are also discussed. Finally, we present a chronological timeline of evidence regarding the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 in spent peritoneal dialysate and explore trends in telehealth as they relate to peritoneal dialysis patients during the pandemic. We conclude that the COVID‐19 pandemic has underscored the efficacy, flexibility, and utility of peritoneal dialysis.
CAGE‐B and SAGE‐B models better predict the hepatitis B virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma after 5‐year entecavir treatment than PAGE‐B
Authors: Chon Hye Yeon , Lee Han Ah , Park Soo Young , Seo Yeon Seok , Kim Sang Gyune , Lee Chang Hun , Lee Tae Hee , Ahn Sang Hoon , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun , Yip Terry Cheuk‐Fung , Liang Lilian Yan , Kim In Hee , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Kim Seung Up
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The PAGE‐B model consists of variables at the initiation of antiviral therapy (AVT), whereas the SAGE‐B and CAGE‐B models consist of variables after 5 years of AVT. We aimed to compare the predictive accuracy of three risk prediction models for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development after 5 years of AVT in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

Methods

A total of 1335 patients who initiated entecavir (ETV) treatment between 2006 and 2011 and were followed up for more than 5 years were enrolled in the study.

Results

At ETV initiation, the median age was 49 years and the median score of the PAGE‐B model was 14. After 5 years of ETV treatment, the median SAGE‐B and CAGE‐B scores were 6 and 6. During the study period, 93 (7.0%) patients developed HCC after 5‐year treatment. In multivariate analysis, PAGE‐B (hazard ratio [HR] 1.151, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.087–1.219), SAGE‐B (HR 1.340, 95% CI 1.228–1.463), and CAGE‐B (HR 1.327, 95% CI 1.223–1.440) models independently predicted HCC development after 5 years of treatment (all P < 0.001). The high‐risk groups of the three risk prediction models showed a significantly higher risk of HCC development compared to the medium‐ and low‐risk groups (both P < 0.05). The AUROC of the SAGE‐B (0.772–0.844) and CAGE‐B (0.785–0.838) models was significantly higher than those of the PAGE‐B model (0.696–0.745) in predicting HCC development after 5 years of treatment (both P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The SAGE‐B and CAGE‐B models might be better than the PAGE‐B model in predicting HCC development after 5 years of ETV treatment.
Sexual activity satisfaction in symptomatic hip osteoarthritis patients: A cross‐sectional, national web‐based study
Authors: Fu Kai , Zhang Di , Metcalf Ben R. , Bennell Kim L. , Zhang Yuqing , Oo Win Min , Deveza Leticia A. , Robbins Sarah R. , Zhang Changqing , Arden Nigel , Hunter David J.
Published: April 2023

Aim

Despite high‐interest rates in sex in people with hip osteoarthritis (OA), clinicians tend not to address sexual issues, especially in older adults. The objective of this study is to evaluate sexual activity and factors associated with sexual activity satisfaction in people with symptomatic hip OA.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 252 participants with symptomatic hip OA in Australia. Quality of sex life was assessed using the online composite of sexual activities and positions questionnaires. A Poisson model with robust variance was used to calculate the prevalence ratio (PR). Factors that showed a univariate association with sexual satisfaction were then included in a multivariable model. PR with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) are reported.

Results

Among the 282 participants registered on the study website, 252 met the inclusion criteria, and 60.3% (152/252) completed the sexual activity questionnaires. Hip OA interfered with sexual activity in 70.0% of the participants. High confidence in completing sexual activity (PR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.77) was associated with an increased prevalence ratio of sexual satisfaction. High anxiety, depression or stress during sexual activity (PR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.60) was associated with an increased prevalence ratio of sexual dissatisfaction after adjusting for hip pain level and perceived partner's orgasm.

Conclusion

Although a large proportion of people with hip OA remain sexually active, a substantial proportion of persons are dissatisfied with their sexual activity. Hip OA interfered with sexual activity in most participants. Psychological factors were found to be associated with sexual activity satisfaction.
Tracing microbial communities associated with archaeological human samples in Latvia, 7–11th centuries AD
Authors: Ķimsis Jānis , Pokšāne Alise , Kazarina Alisa , Vilcāne Antonija , Petersone‐Gordina Elina , Zayakin Pawel , Gerhards Guntis , Ranka Renate
Published: April 2023

In the grave environment, microorganisms are major ecological participants in the successional decomposition of vertebrates and could infiltrate the skeleton/skeletal material during taphonomic processes. The diversity of archaeological skeleton‐associated microbial assemblages and the impact of various factors are poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the taxonomic microbial composition of archaeological human bone and teeth samples from the 7th to 11th centuries AD from two burial sites in Latvia. Samples were analysed by a shotgun metagenomics‐based approach. The results showed a strong presence of the environmental DNA in the samples, and variability in microbial community structure between individual samples. Differences in microbial composition were observed between bone and tooth samples, as well as between different burial sites. Furthermore, the presence of endogenous ancient DNA (aDNA) in tooth samples was detected. Overall, compositions of microbial communities associated with archaeological human remains in Latvia dated 7–11th century AD were influenced by the sample type and burial location. These findings indicate that, while the content of historical DNA in archaeological samples is low, the comparison of archaeological skeleton‐associated microbial assemblages across time and space, along with aDNA damage profile analysis, is important and could help to reveal putative ancient microorganisms.
The kinesin light chain‐2, a target of mRNA stabilizing protein HuR, inhibits p53 protein phosphorylation to promote radioresistance in NSCLC
Authors: Qiao Simiao , Jiang Yuhang , Li Na , Zhu Xiaoxia
Published: April 2023

Background

Radioresistance hinders radiotherapy for the treatment of lung cancer. Kinesin light chain‐2 (KLC2) has been found to be upregulated in lung cancer and also to be associated with poor prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the effect of KLC2 on radiosensitivity in lung cancer.

Methods

The radioresistant role of KLC2 was determined by colony formation, neutral comet assay, and γH2AX immunofluorescent staining assay. We further verified the function of KLC2 in a xenograft tumor model. The downstream of KLC2 was identified through gene set enrichment analysis and validated by western blot. Finally, we analyzed clinical data from the TCGA database to reveal the upstream transcription factor of KLC2, which was validated by RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation assay.

Results

Here, we found that downregulation of KLC2 could significantly reduce colony formation, increase γH2AX level, and double‐stranded DNA breaks in vitro. Meanwhile, overexpressed KLC2 significantly increased the proportion of the S phase in lung cancer cells. KLC2 knockdown could activate P53 pathway, and ultimately promoting radiosensitivity. The mRNA of KLC2 was observed to bind with Hu‐antigen R (HuR). The mRNA and protein expression of KLC2 in lung cancer cells was significantly reduced when combined with siRNA‐HuR. Interestingly, KLC2 overexpression significantly increased the expression of HuR in lung cancer cells.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results indicated that HuR‐KLC2 forms a positive feedback loop, which decreases the phosphorylation of p53 and thereby weaken the radiosensitivity of lung cancer cells. Our findings highlight the potential prognosis and therapeutic target value of KLC2 in lung cancer patients treated with radiotherapy.
Agreement between survey‐ and register‐based measures of depression in Denmark
Authors: Weye Nanna , McGrath John J. , Lasgaard Mathias , Momen Natalie C. , Knudsen Ann Kristin , Musliner Katherine , Plana‐Ripoll Oleguer
Published: April 2023

Background

Register‐based studies of major depressive disorder (MDD) do not capture all prevalent cases, as untreated cases and diagnoses made by general practitioners are not recorded in the registers. We examined the prevalence and agreement of survey‐ and register‐based measures of depression, and explored sociodemographic and health‐related factors that may have influenced this agreement.

Methods

All 32,407 participants in the 2017 Central Denmark Region How are you? survey were linked to hospital and prescription records. A checklist for depressive symptoms within the last 14 days (Major Depression Inventory; MDI) from the survey was compared with register‐based assessment of hospital‐diagnosed MDD and/or prescriptions for antidepressants. We estimated agreement between survey‐based and register‐based measures for depression and used logistic regression models to explore selected associated factors.

Results

In total, 5.9% of How are you? survey participants screened positive for current depression on the MDI. Of these, 51.3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 49.0–53.6) filled a prescription for an antidepressant medication during the 10 years prior or 2 years following the administration of the survey, and 14.5% (95% CI: 12.9–16.2) were treated for MDD in a psychiatric hospital‐based setting. When using a higher threshold of the MDI indicating more severe current depression, 22.8% (95% CI: 19.6–26.1) of those who screened positive also received an MDD diagnosis and 63.4% (95% CI: 59.7–67.2) were prescribed antidepressants during this 12‐year period. Among those with current depression, female sex, older age, chronic diseases, hospital‐treated self‐harm, and being permanently outside the workforce were associated with having a register‐based MDD diagnosis or antidepressant prescription. Among those with a register‐based depression record, female sex, younger age, hospital‐treated self‐harm, stress, and severe loneliness were associated with current depression.

Conclusion

We found that as few as 15% of individuals with current depression in the general Danish population were captured by the psychiatric hospital register, while 51% of these individuals were identifiable in the prescription register. These findings demonstrate that register‐based measures significantly underestimate the true prevalence of depression by identifying only the cases that are most severe.
Risky alcohol consumption among women in Australia attending breast screening services: an exploratory cross‐sectional study
Authors: Grigg Jasmin , Manning Victoria , Cheetham Ali , Greenwood Christopher J. , Youssef George , Lockie Darren , Bell Robin , Stragalinos Peta , Bernard Chloe , Lubman Dan I.
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

Alcohol is a major modifiable risk factor for female breast cancer, with breast cancer risk now associated with substantially lower consumption levels than those previously deemed safe. This study sought to measure risky drinking among women attending breast screening services in Australia according to new national alcohol guidelines and to compare daily, weekly and recent (past 12 months) consumption to Australian gender and age population norms.

Design, Setting and Participants

This study was a retrospective analysis of cross‐sectional data from the Lifepool Project (collected October 2011–January 2016) in Victoria, Australia, comprising a convenience sample of women attending breast screening services aged 40+ years.

Measurements

Typical and heavy alcohol consumption patterns over the previous 12 months (frequency, quantity), socio‐demographic (e.g. age, education) and health‐related (e.g. menopause status, breast cancer history) characteristics. Primary outcomes were the proportion of women drinking at a level exceeding new guidelines for weekly and daily alcohol consumption.

Findings

Of 49 240 women, mean age was 59.94 years (standard deviation = 7.14, range = 40–94 years). Most women had consumed alcohol during the past 12 months [41 628, 85.48%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 85.16, 85.79]. One in five women (8464, 18.34%, 95% CI = 17.99, 18.69) were drinking at a level exceeding new national guidelines for weekly consumption (i.e. greater than 10 standard drinks per week), and one in six (7446, 15.60%, 95% CI = 15.28, 15.93) were exceeding new guidelines for consumption on a single day (i.e. greater than four standard drinks on any 1 day, more than once per month). The proportion of women in this sample drinking daily (4.21–11.19%), weekly (34.73–50.71%) and in the past 12 months (74.96–90.81%) was significantly greater among nearly all age groups (by decade), compared with Australian gender and age norms [drinking daily (3.4–9.1%), weekly (27.1–37.6%) and in the past 12 months (64.4–81.9%)].

Conclusions

There appears to be a high prevalence of risky alcohol consumption among a large convenience sample of breast screening service clients in Australia using new national alcohol guidelines introduced in December 2020.
Minero‐petrographic characterization of fine ware from Cales (South Italy)
Authors: Verde Maria , De Bonis Alberto , Renson Virginie , Germinario Chiara , Rispoli Concetta , D'Uva Francesco , Tomeo Antonella , Morra Vincenzo
Published: April 2023

79 samples of black glazed pottery, Terra sigillata, fine common ware, and production indicators were recovered in the archaeological site of Cales and investigated via a multi‐analytical program (polarized light microscopy, thermal analyses, XRPD, XRF, FESEM, FESEM‐EDS). Among the materials, finds of important production indicators, represented by welded pieces of black glazed pottery and spacers, attest a local production.

Polarized light microscopy shows that the inclusions consist of feldspar, quartz, mica, calcite, and lithic fragments of both volcanic and sedimentary nature. Additional information about the mineralogical assemblage comes from the XRPD that revealed the presence of neoformed Ca‐silicates, indicating equivalent firing temperatures ranging from 750 to 1050°C.

All the samples show a Ca‐rich character and an extreme compositional homogeneity, including the production indicators. The comparison with some Ca‐rich Campanian clay raw materials shows a greater affinity with the Mio‐Pliocene marine clay sediments of the Apennine sector, which include local clays. This allowed us to formulate the first hypotheses about clay sources used to produce fine pottery during the third century BCE to the early imperial period in Cales.
Application of population physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelling to optimize target expression and clearance mechanisms of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Reig‐Lopez Javier , Tang Weifeng , Fernandez‐Teruel Carlos , Merino‐Sanjuan Matilde , Mangas‐Sanjuan Victor , Boulton David W. , Sharma Pradeep
Published: April 2023

Aims

To use population physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PopPBPK) modelling to optimize target expression, kinetics and clearance of HER1/2 directed therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Thus, to propose a general workflow of PopPBPK modelling and its application in clinical pharmacology.

Methods

Full PBPK model of pertuzumab (PTZ) was developed in patient population using Simcyp V21R1 incorporating mechanistic targeted‐mediated drug disposition process by fitting known clinical PK and sparse receptor proteomics data to optimize target expression and kinetics of HER2 receptor. Trastuzumab (TTZ) PBPK modelling was used to validate the optimized HER2 target. Additionally, the simulator was also used to develop a full PBPK model for the HER1‐directed mAb cetuximab (CTX) to assess the underlying targeted‐mediated drug disposition‐independent elimination mechanisms.

Results

HER2 final parameterisation coming from the PBPK modelling of PTZ was successfully cross validated through PBPK modelling of TTZ with average fold error (AFE), absolute AFE and percent prediction error values for area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of 1.13, 1.16 and 16, and 1.01, 1.07 and 7, respectively. CTX PBPK model performance was validated after the incorporation of an additional systemic clearance of 0.033 L/h as AFE and absolute AFE showed an acceptable predictive power of AUC and Cmax with percent prediction error of 13% for AUC and 10% for Cmax.

Conclusions

Optimisation of both system and drug related parameters were performed through PBPK modelling to improve model performance of therapeutic mAbs (PTZ, TTZ and CTX). General workflow was proposed to develop and apply PopPBPK to support clinical development of mAbs targeting same receptor.
Sepsis prevalence and associated hospital admission and mortality after ureteroscopy in employed adults
Authors: Bhojani Naeem , Eisner Brian , Monga Manoj , Paranjpe Rutugandha , Cutone Ben , Chew Ben H.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To determine 30‐day inpatient mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, inpatient admissions/readmissions, and yearly trends in sepsis prevalence and inpatient mortality after ureteroscopy (URS) in employed adults.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of the IBM MarketScan Commercial Database to identify employed adults aged 18–64 years who underwent URS between 2015 and 2019. Patients were categorized as having no sepsis (controls), non‐severe sepsis, or severe sepsis within 30 days of URS. The main outcomes included inpatient mortality, ICU admissions, inpatient admissions, readmissions, and annual rates of sepsis and associated inpatient mortality.

Results

Among 109 496 patients undergoing URS, 5.6% developed sepsis (4.1% non‐severe, 1.5% severe). The 30‐day inpatient mortality rates were 0.03%, 0.3% and 2.5% for controls, non‐severe sepsis and severe sepsis, respectively (P < 0.001). In a multivariable analysis, diagnosis of sepsis regardless of severity (hazard ratio [HR] 17.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 10.5–28.1; P < 0.001) or severe sepsis (HR 49.5, 95% CI 28.9–84.7; P < 0.001) increased the risk of 30‐day inpatient mortality compared to no sepsis (controls). ICU admissions on the day of procedure (1.5%, 19.8% and 52.4%), inpatient admission rates (18.3%, 74.9% and 76.9%) and readmission rates (7.1%, 12.0% and 15.9%) were higher with severe sepsis and non‐severe sepsis vs controls (all P < 0.001). During the study period, the prevalence of sepsis after URS increased from 4.7% to 6.6% (P < 0.001), while the associated mortality rate decreased from 0.7% to 0.2% (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Among working adults aged 18–64 years, sepsis after URS increases the risk of 30‐day inpatient mortality, ICU and hospital admission, and hospital readmission. Although the prevalence of sepsis after URS is increasing over time, associated mortality rates are declining. Urologists should be aware of the potentially deadly consequences of sepsis after URS in younger patients.
NanoBiT‐ and NanoBiT/BRET‐based assays allow the analysis of binding kinetics of Wnt‐3a to endogenous Frizzled 7 in a colorectal cancer model
Authors: Grätz Lukas , Sajkowska‐Kozielewicz Joanna J. , Wesslowski Janine , Kinsolving Julia , Bridge Lloyd J. , Petzold Katja , Davidson Gary , Schulte Gunnar , Kozielewicz Paweł
Published: April 2023

Background and Purpose

Wnt binding to Frizzleds (FZD) is a crucial step that leads to the initiation of signalling cascades governing multiple processes during embryonic development, stem cell regulation and adult tissue homeostasis. Recent efforts have enabled us to shed light on Wnt–FZD pharmacology using overexpressed HEK293 cells. However, assessing ligand binding at endogenous receptor expression levels is important due to differential binding behaviour in a native environment. Here, we study FZD paralogue, FZD7, and analyse its interactions with Wnt‐3a in live CRISPR‐Cas9‐edited SW480 cells typifying colorectal cancer.

Experimental Approach

SW480 cells were CRISPR‐Cas9‐edited to insert a HiBiT tag on the N‐terminus of FZD7, preserving the native signal peptide. These cells were used to study eGFP‐Wnt‐3a association with endogenous and overexpressed HiBiT‐FZD7 using NanoBiT/bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) and NanoBiT to measure ligand binding and receptor internalization.

Key Results

With this new assay the binding of eGFP‐Wnt‐3a to endogenous HiBiT‐FZD7 was compared with overexpressed receptors. Receptor overexpression results in increased membrane dynamics, leading to an apparent decrease in binding on‐rate and consequently in higher, up to 10 times, calculated Kd. Thus, measurements of binding affinities to FZD7 obtained in overexpressed cells are suboptimal compared with the measurements from endogenously expressing cells.

Conclusions and Implications

Binding affinity measurements in the overexpressing cells fail to replicate ligand binding affinities assessed in a (patho)physiologically relevant context where receptor expression is lower. Therefore, future studies on Wnt–FZD7 binding should be performed using receptors expressed under endogenous promotion.
Detection of male 2+0 and 1+0 carriers for spinal muscular atrophy by digital PCR
Authors: Gao Shanshan , Wu Dongping , Liu Shuai , Shen Yanlong , Zhao Zhehao , Wang Yanhua , Kong Xiangdong
Published: April 2023

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive disease with a high carrier frequency. While current screening methods can identify 1+0 carriers, detecting 2+0 genotypes remains challenging, highlighting the need for additional research. Herein, we applied Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction (dPCR) to develop a novel approach for the detection of male carriers (DMC), especially for those with a 2+0 genotype. The clinical utility of DMC was evaluated in 39 semen samples. Multiple ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and pedigree analysis were performed on genomic DNA from 111 males and their family members. DMC identified 1+1, 2+1, and 1+0 genotypes in 21, 1, and 8 subjects. Importantly, seven men were identified as 2+0 carriers, while two men were excluded from the 2+0 carrier status. The results of DMC were consistent with those of MLPA and pedigree analysis. DMC provides an inexpensive and accurate method for determining the 2+0 and 1+0 genotypes.
Evaluation of surgical placement accuracy of customized CAD/CAM titanium mesh using screws‐position‐guided template: A retrospective comparative study
Authors: Chen Dan , Zheng Lingling , Wang Chao , Huang Yuanding , Huang Haitao , Apicella Antonio , Hu Guiping , Wang Lizhen , Fan Yubo
Published: April 2023

Background

Customized computer‐aided‐design/computer‐aided‐manufacturing (CAD/CAM) titanium meshes have been adopted for alveolar bone augmentation. But the inaccuracies between planned and created bone volume/contour are quite common, and the surgical placement of the customized mesh was considered as the first critical factor. However, the evaluation of surgical placement accuracy of customized mesh is currently lacking.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the surgical placement of customized meshes.

Methods

A total of 30 cases, 20 without the screws‐position‐guided template and 10 with the screws‐position‐guided template, were included in this study. The cone beam CT (CBCT) data sets of pre‐ and postoperative were converted into 3D models and digitally aligned. Then the actual placement of customized mesh and retainer titanium screws was compared to the virtual one to assess the surgical placement accuracy of customized mesh. At least 6 months after surgery, a new CBCT was taken and converted into 3D models. Planned bone volume, created bone volume, vertical bone augmentation, healing complications rate, pseudo‐periosteum rate, exposure rate, and infection rate were all evaluated.

Results

The 3D digital reconstruction/registration analysis showed that the average difference between actual placement and planned one of customized mesh in positive and negative directions was 2.69 ± 0.70 mm and −1.41 ± 0.90 mm, respectively, without the screws‐position‐guided template. And the mean difference values between the actual and planned placement of the screws on the X and Y axes were 0.74 ± 0.85 mm and 0.89 ± 0.84 mm. In contrast, with the screws‐position‐guided template, the results were 2.38 ± 0.69 mm and −1.30 ± 1.13 mm. Accordingly, the mean difference values of screws were 0.76 ± 0.84 mm and 0.94 ± 0.72 mm. There was no statistical difference between the two groups, and the noninferiority of the control group compared to the test group was also confirmed by the comparative analysis.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that there is a certain deviation between the planned surgical placement and actual one of customized mesh, and using screws‐position‐guided template is of limited help for its accurate placement. Further research is needed to achieve precise surgical placement of the customized mesh to achieve precise alveolar bone augmentation.
LRH‐1 activation alleviates diabetes‐induced podocyte injury by promoting GLS2‐mediated glutaminolysis
Authors: Hu Jijia , Zhang Zongwei , Hu Hongtu , Yang Keju , Zhu Zijing , Yang Qian , Liang Wei
Published: April 2023

Alteration of metabolic phenotype in podocytes directly contributes to the development of albuminuria and renal injury in conditions of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). This study aimed to identify and evaluate liver receptor homologue‐1 (LRH‐1) as a possible therapeutic target that alleviates glutamine (Gln) metabolism disorders and mitigates podocyte injury in DKD. Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses were performed to characterize amino acid metabolism changes in the glomeruli of diabetic mice. Next, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry assays, and immunofluorescence staining were used to detect the expression of different genes in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, Gln and glutamate (Glu) content as well as ATP generation were examined. A decrease in LRH‐1 and glutaminase 2 (GLS2) expression was detected in diabetic podocytes. Conversely, the administration of LRH‐1 agonist (DLPC) upregulated the expression of GLS2 and promoted glutaminolysis, with an improvement in mitochondrial dysfunction and less apoptosis in podocytes compared to those in vehicle‐treated db/db mice. Our study indicates the essential role of LRH‐1 in governing the Gln metabolism of podocytes, targeting LRH‐1 could restore podocytes from diabetes‐induced disturbed glutaminolysis in mitochondria.
EWSR1::NR4A3 gene fusion in a cutaneous atypical myoepithelial neoplasm
Authors: Scholl Ashley Rose , Kliassov Evelyna , Cardona Diana M. , Bentley Rex , Al‐Rohil Rami N.
Published: April 2023

Myoepithelial neoplasms of the skin and soft tissue are rare and share histopathologic features with their salivary gland counterpart. We present a case of an atypical myoepithelial neoplasm from the back of a 72‐year‐old female. This lesion harbored an EWSR1::NR4A3 gene fusion, a genetic signature characteristically seen in extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma. To our knowledge, this is a unique case of an atypical cutaneous myoepithelial neoplasm harboring EWSR1::NR4A3 fusion.
Causal inference and large‐scale expert validation shed light on the drivers of SDM accuracy and variance
Authors: Boyd Robin J. , Harvey Martin , Roy David B. , Barber Tony , Haysom Karen A. , Macadam Craig R. , Morris Roger K. A. , Palmer Carolyn , Palmer Stephen , Preston Chris D. , Taylor Pam , Ward Robert , Ball Stuart G. , Pescott Oliver L.
Published: April 2023

Aim

To develop a causal understanding of the drivers of Species distribution model (SDM) performance.

Location

United Kingdom (UK).

Methods

We measured the accuracy and variance of SDMs fitted for 518 species of invertebrate and plant in the UK. Our measure of variance reflects variation among replicate model fits, and taxon experts assessed model accuracy. Using directed acyclic graphs, we developed a causal model depicting plausible effects of explanatory variables (e.g. species' prevalence, sample size) on SDM accuracy and variance and quantified those effects using a multilevel piecewise path model.

Results

According to our model, sample size and niche completeness (proportion of a species' niche covered by sampling) directly affect SDM accuracy and variance. Prevalence and range completeness have indirect effects mediated by sample size. Challenging conventional wisdom, we found that the effect of prevalence on SDM accuracy is positive. This reflects the facts that sample size has a positive effect on accuracy and larger sample sizes are possible for widespread species. It is possible, however, that the omission of an unobserved confounder biased this effect. Previous studies, which reported negative correlations between prevalence and SDM accuracy, conditioned on sample size.

Main conclusions

Our model explicates the causal basis of previously reported correlations between SDM performance and species/data characteristics. It also suggests that niche completeness has similarly large effects on SDM accuracy and variance as sample size. Analysts should consider niche completeness, or proxies thereof, in addition to sample size when deciding whether modelling is worthwhile.
Sintering and characterization of in situ formed porous cordierite ceramics with nano boehmite additions
Authors: Mansour T. S. , Wahsh M. M. S. , Othman A. G. M.
Published: April 2023

In this study, we investigated the effect of sintering temperature and nano boehmite additions on the phase composition, densification, and mechanical properties of porous cordierite ceramics. Ceramic samples were sintered at temperatures ranging from 1200 to 1400°C. Carbon powder was used as a pore forming agent to improve the porosity of the ceramic structure. Nano boehmite and carbon additions significantly enhanced ceramic porosity and average pore size in sintered samples. The bulk density and apparent porosity of the sintered samples were found to be 0.96–1.53 g/cm3 and 42.3%–65.6%, respectively. Sintered samples had cold crushing strengths of 1.5–14.3 MPa. The microstructure obtained by scanning electron microscopy was used to measure average pore size in sintered samples and was found to be 41.93 µm for stoichiometric composition (SC), 67.72 µm for SC and nano boehmite, and 102.98 µm for SC, nano boehmite, and carbon. The microstructure of the sintered samples revealed that the crystallinity of the in situ formed phases increased with the increase in nano boehmite additions.
Inventions on keeping properties and non‐reactive ingredients in chemical leavening
Authors: Gélinas Pierre
Published: April 2023

Bakery foods may be leavened by gas originating from the reaction of specific ingredients in chemical leavening or so‐called baking powder. The latter contains alkaline‐ and acid‐reacting compounds that are activated when water is added to make the dough. Care should be taken to prevent premature cross‐reaction of active ingredients. The aim of this study was to review keeping properties and non‐reactive ingredients in chemical leavening. Information was mainly found in 160 patents, not in the scientific literature. Inventors proposed neutral fillers, anticaking agents and household packaging to control moisture absorption in powders. Chemical leavening carried dough processing aids, nutrients and flavour improvers. Miscellaneous coating materials were introduced to delay gas production in dough refrigerated over prolonged periods. Neutral fillers like corn starch and, more recently, coatings for leavening acids were the most popular solutions for extending the shelf‐life of chemical leavening.
Improving grindability and bioaccessibility of chicken bone by in situ steam explosion
Authors: Kong Feng , Li Yue , Li Pengfei , Qiu Xinru , Guo Xingfeng , Chen Jinfa , Wang Wenhao
Published: April 2023

The impacts of in situ steam explosion (ISE) on the particle size, protein solubility and digestibility, calcium release and structural characteristics of chicken bone powder were analysed. ISE significantly reduced the average particle size from 142.62 to 84.47–105.10 μm, while maintained the proximate compositions. The Fourier transforms infrared spectra and X‐ray diffraction further illustrated that there were no marked differences in the functional groups between native and ISE bone powders. Moreover, soluble protein content in chicken bone powder was remarkably enhanced by the ISE from 3.28 to 3.73 mg g−1. ISE powder (at 121 °C for 90 min) had higher protein digestibility (48.63%) than that of native (30.82%). Finally, ISE powder showed a higher calcium release and 2,2′‐azino‐bis (3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical scavenging activity of digestive juice. The results proposed the feasibility of using ISE as an effective strategy to improve the nutritional quality of chicken bone.
Black garlic production: The influence of ageing temperature and duration on some physicochemical and antioxidant properties, and sugar content
Authors: Aoudeh Eyad , Oz Emel , Kelebek Hasim , Brennan Charles , Ahmad Naushad , Elobeid Tahra , Oz Fatih
Published: April 2023

Herein, some quality characteristics (water content, pH, antioxidant activity and sugar contents) of fresh garlic (Taşköprü, Türkiye) and black garlic, which were produced under various ageing temperatures (60 °C, 70 °C and 80 °C) and durations (30, 45 and 60 days), and the effect of ageing processes on these quality characteristics were determined. The ageing process caused a reduction (P < 0.01) in the water content and pH value of the samples, while enhanced (P < 0.01) antioxidant activity and increased (P < 0.01) the content of glucose, fructose, sucrose and reducing sugar. Both the water content and pH value of the black garlic declined significantly with increasing ageing temperature, while only pH value of the black garlic declined significantly with increasing ageing duration. Ageing samples at 60 °C and 70 °C exhibited higher antioxidant activity than those aged at 80 °C, which had similar activity to the fresh samples. A similar status was observed when the ageing temperature was prolonged to 60 days. Sucrose concentration of the black garlic samples raised with elevating the ageing temperature and declined with prolonging the duration. While a remarkable decline in the reducing sugars of the black garlic samples was observed with elevating the ageing temperature, the maximum concentration was recorded on the 45th day of the ageing process. However, the black garlic samples produced at 60 °C for 60 days or 70 °C for 30 days could be recommended to get a final product with good antioxidant capacity, adequate amount of free sugars, pH value and water content.
Recent advances in ultrasound application in fermented and non‐fermented dairy products: antibacterial and bioactive properties
Authors: Kaveh Shima , Gholamhosseinpour Aliakbar , Hashemi Seyed Mohammad Bagher , Jafarpour Dornoush , Castagnini Juan M. , Phimolsiripol Yuthana , Barba Francisco J.
Published: April 2023

Ultrasound, as an innovative approach, is a suitable alternative for dairy heat processing and can effectively inactivate microorganisms. Its capacity in improving the bioactive and functional properties of fermented dairy products has been stated in several studies. Increase in the amplitude of ultrasound up to 60% provided significantly increase in peptide content. This review provides comprehensive information of ultrasound in the production of both fermented and non‐fermented dairy products. In‐depth discussion of the effect of ultrasound on the bioactive properties of dairy products, linking the anticancer, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory effects with the content of bioactive peptides, exopolysaccharides, and the activity of enzymes were also discussed. Ultrasound pre‐treatment induces proteolysis and production of bioactive compounds such as peptides and exopolysaccharides that are responsible for antibacterial and health beneficial properties of these products including antioxidants, anticancer, anti‐hypertensive, and anti‐diabetic activities. The application of ultrasound at optimum conditions is a promising way to produce functional fermented and non‐fermented dairy products with various health‐beneficial activities.
Predictors of anxiety among pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus and their partners: The mediating role of marital satisfaction
Authors: Han Rong‐rong , Xiang Zhi‐xuan , Zhang Shu‐han , Gao Ling‐ling
Published: April 2023

Aims

This study aims to examine the prevalence of anxiety symptoms and identify predictors of anxiety among pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus and their partners and explore the mediating role of marital satisfaction between maternal and paternal anxiety.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in Guangzhou, China, from July 2021 to May 2022.

Methods

A total of 306 dyads of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus and their partners completed the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, Locke–Wallace Marital Adjustment Test and the socio‐demographic and clinical data sheet.

Results

The prevalence of anxiety symptoms was 32.4% and 36.6% in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus and their partners, respectively. The predictors of maternal anxiety were paternal anxiety, maternal marital satisfaction, maternal monthly salary, fasting glucose value and 1‐h glucose value. By contrast, the predictors of paternal anxiety were maternal anxiety, paternal marital satisfaction and paternal monthly salary. Moreover, the relationship between maternal and paternal anxiety was mediated by marital satisfaction.

Conclusions

The anxiety symptoms of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus and their partners influence each other, and this relationship was mediated by marital satisfaction. Every couple should be screened for anxiety symptoms and treated as a team rather than focusing solely on the pregnant woman.
Gregory Palamas, Essence and Energy: Eradicating Falsehood and Establishing Truth
Authors: Weinandy Thomas G.
Published: April 2023

This essay examines Gregory Palamas's distinction between God's essence and his energies. His position has been controversial down to the present day – some scholars supporting his distinction and others severely criticizing it. I demonstrate that the distinction between God's essence and his energies is indeed fallacious – scripturally, philosophically, and theologically. I offer, in its place, a scriptural, philosophical, and theological position that not only adequately addresses Gregory's concerns, but also one that is true to who God is as a trinity of persons. My essay is divided into five sections. The first briefly provides the historical circumstances that prompted Gregory to defend the distinction between God's essence and his energies. Second, I present Palamas's arguments on behalf of his distinction between God's essence, the manner in which he exists in himself, and his uncreated energies, the manner in which he acts in relation to what is not God. Third, I critically examine the various interpretations offered by those who support Gregory's distinction, particularly Vladimir Lossky, John Meyendorff, Norman Russell, and A.N. Williams. Fourth, I offer my own critique of Palamas's position. Finally, I propose an alternative understanding of the issues involved, an interpretation that addresses Gregory's concerns. In so doing, I will conceive and articulate a position that is more faithful to biblical revelation, the conciliar magisterial tradition, and one that is more philosophically and theologically coherent.
Migration information campaigns: How to analyse their impact?
Authors: Cham Omar N. , Trauner Florian
Published: April 2023

Information campaigns aim at discouraging potential migrants from leaving their countries irregularly. This article discusses how to analyse the impact of such campaigns by identifying different research lines in the literature. The impact of migration information campaigns may be explored by, firstly, focusing on transnational migratory data and inter‐state relations (the macro‐level); secondly, by investigating their impact on narratives within societies (the meso‐level); and, finally, by investigating the micro‐level of their influence on migratory decision‐making. At each level, scholars face considerable methodological challenges to filter out the impact of campaigns. This article suggests that a promising research avenue is to analyse more widely the narratives and information sources upon which (potential) migrants rely. Opening up the research focus may avoid the risk of over‐emphasising the impact of information campaigns by only looking at them. It allows to better understand which sources of information actually influence migratory behaviour.
Integer programming formulations for the k$k$‐in‐a‐tree problem in graphs
Authors: Ferreira Lucas Saldanha , Santos Vinicius Fernandes dos , Valle Cristiano Arbex
Published: April 2023

Chudnovsky and Seymour proposed the Three‐in‐a‐tree algorithm which solves the following problem in polynomial time: given three fixed vertices in a simple finite graph, check whether an induced tree containing these vertices exists. In this paper, we deal with a generalization of this problem, referred to henceforth as ‐in‐a‐tree. The ‐in‐a‐tree checks whether a graph contains an induced tree spanning given vertices. When is part of the input, the problem is known to be NP‐complete. If is a fixed given number, its complexity is an open question, although there are efficient algorithms for restricted cases such as claw‐free graphs, graphs with a girth of at least and chordal graphs. We present mixed‐integer programming formulations for this problem, and we show that instances with up to 25,000 vertices can be solved in reasonable computational time.