bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glial fibrillary acidic protein in cerebrospinal fluid of patients with spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Freigang Maren , Steinacker Petra , Wurster Claudia D. , Schreiber‐Katz Olivia , Osmanovic Alma , Petri Susanne , Koch Jan C. , Rostásy Kevin , Huss André , Tumani Hayrettin , Winter Benedikt , Falkenburger Björn , Ludolph Albert C. , Otto Markus , Hermann Andreas , Günther René
Published: August 2022

Objective

Activated astroglia is involved in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases and has also been described in animal models of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Given the urgent need of biomarkers for treatment monitoring of new RNA‐modifying and gene replacement therapies in SMA, we examined glial fibrillary acidic protein concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid (cGFAP) as a marker of astrogliosis in SMA.

Methods

58 adult patients and 21 children with genetically confirmed 5q‐associated SMA from four German motor neuron disease specialist care centers and 30 age‐ and sex‐matched controls were prospectively included in this study. cGFAP was measured and correlated to motor performance and disease severity. Additionally, we compared cGFAP with neurofilament light chain concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid (cNfL).

Results

cGFAP concentrations did not differ from controls but showed higher levels in more severely affected patients after adjustment for patients' age. Normalized cNfL values were associated with disease severity. Within 14 months of nusinersen treatment, cGFAP concentrations did not change, while cNfL decreased significantly.

Interpretation

cGFAP is not an outstanding biomarker in SMA, but might support the hypothesis that glial activation is involved in SMA pathology. Unlike previously suggested, cNfL may be a promising biomarker also in adult patients with SMA, which should be subject to further investigations.
3D Printing Flexible Sodium‐Ion Microbatteries with Ultrahigh Areal Capacity and Robust Rate Capability
Authors: Ma Jiaxin , Zheng Shuanghao , Chi Liping , Liu Yu , Zhang Ying , Wang Kai , Wu Zhong‐Shuai
Published: August 2022

Rechargeable sodium‐ion microbatteries (NIMBs) constructed using low‐cost and abundant raw materials in planar configuration with both cathode and anode on the same substrate hold promise for powering coplanar microelectronics, but are hindered by the low areal capacity owing to the thin microelectrodes. Here, a prototype of planar and flexible 3D‐printed NIMBs is demonstrated with 3D interconnected conductive thick microelectrodes for ultrahigh areal capacity and boosted rate capability. Rationally optimized 3D printable inks with appropriate viscosities and high conductivity allow the multilayer printing of NIMB microelectrodes reaching a very high thickness of ≈1200 µm while maintaining effective ion and electron‐transfer pathways in them. Consequently, the 3D‐printed NIMBs deliver superior areal capacity of 4.5 mAh cm−2 (2 mA cm−2), outperforming the state‐of‐the‐art printed microbatteries. The NIMBs show enhanced rate capability with 3.6 mAh cm−2 at 40 mA cm−2 and robust long‐term cycle life up to 6000 cycles. Furthermore, the planar NIMB microelectrodes, despite the large thickness, exhibit decent mechanical flexibility under various bending conditions. This work opens a new avenue for the construction of high‐performance NIMBs with thick microelectrodes capable of powering flexible microelectronics.
Mechanically Active Materials and Devices for Bio‐Interfaced Pressure Sensors—A Review
Authors: Nie Zhongyi , Kwak Jean Won , Han Mengdi , Rogers John A.
Published: August 2022

Pressures generated by external forces or by internal body processes represent parameters of critical importance in diagnosing physiological health and in anticipating injuries. Examples span intracranial hypertension from traumatic brain injuries, high blood pressure from poor diet, pressure‐induced skin ulcers from immobility, and edema from congestive heart failure. Pressures measured on the soft surfaces of vital organs or within internal cavities of the body can provide essential insights into patient status and progression. Challenges lie in the development of high‐performance pressure sensors that can softly interface with biological tissues to enable safe monitoring for extended periods of time. This review focuses on recent advances in mechanically active materials and structural designs for classes of soft pressure sensors that have proven uses in these contexts. The discussions include applications of such sensors as implantable and wearable systems, with various unique capabilities in wireless continuous monitoring, minimally invasive deployment, natural degradation in biofluids, and/or multiplexed spatiotemporal mapping. A concluding section summarizes challenges and future opportunities for this growing field of materials and biomedical research.
Constructing “Soft‐Stiff” Structure on the Surface of Carbon Fiber to Enhance the Interfacial Properties of Its Epoxy Composites
Authors: Ma Xiaoyue , Guo Jiaming , Wen Shubao , Liu Yu , Wang Junming , Zhao Lianshuang , Ao Yuhui , Liu Liu , Yan Fei
Published: August 2022

A “soft‐stiff” structure is equipped onto carbon fiber (CF) surface by hydrothermal and self‐assembly methods, in which MnO2 nanosheets and natural polysaccharide chitosan (CS) act as “stiff” phase and “soft” phase, respectively, leading to strong interfacial phase in CF/epoxy composite. The roughness, polar functional group content, and wettability of the CF surface are significantly promoted by this protocol. Moreover, the unique structure also serves as a buffer area to relieve stress concentration and change the direction of crack propagation, thus enhancing the interfacial properties of the composites. The strengthening effect of the “soft‐stiff” structure is verified by interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and flexural strength tests, which are improved by 47.4% and 48.2%, respectively compared with pristine CF/epoxy composites. This work provides a potential reinforcement strategy to access high‐performance CF composites.
Chronic interleukin‐13 expression in mouse olfactory mucosa results in regional aneuronal epithelium
Authors: Saraswathula Anirudh , Liu Melissa M. , Kulaga Heather , Lane Andrew P.
Published: August 2022

Background

Olfactory dysfunction is highly associated with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), and the severity of loss has been linked with biomarkers of type 2 inflammation. The ability of dupilumab to rapidly improve the sense of smell prior to improvement in polyp size suggests a direct role of IL‐4/IL‐13 receptor signaling in the olfactory epithelium (OE).

Methods

We created a transgenic mouse model in which IL‐13 is inducibly expressed specifically within the OE. Gene expression analysis and immunohistology were utilized to characterize the effect of IL‐13 on the structure of the OE.

Results

After induction of olfactory IL‐13 expression, there is a time‐dependent loss of neurons from OE regions, accompanied by a modest inflammatory infiltrate. Horizontal basal cells undergo morphologic changes consistent with activation and demonstrate proliferation. Mucus production and increased expression of eotaxins is observed, with marked expression of Ym2 by sustentacular cells.

Discussion

Chronic IL‐13 exposure has several effects on the OE that are likely to affect function. The neuronal loss is in keeping with other models of allergic type 2 nasal inflammation. Future studies are needed to correlate cellular and molecular alterations in olfactory cell populations with findings in human CRSwNP, as well as to assess olfactory function in behavioral model systems.
Elevated temperature mechanical behavior of nano Al2O3 embedded interpenetrating polymer network/glass fiber composites
Authors: Gupta K B. N. V. S. Ganesh , Patnaik Satyaroop , Ray Bankim Chandra , Rai Rajesh Kumar , Prusty Rajesh Kumar
Published: August 2022

Two methods of enhancing the mechanical performance of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites, namely the formation of an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) of two thermoset polymers (epoxy and vinyl ester) and the addition of nanofillers (nano Al2O3) have been implemented simultaneously. The content of nano Al2O3 (0.1, 0.4, and 0.7 wt% of the polymer matrix) in the glass fiber reinforced epoxy‐vinyl ester IPN (GEVIPN) composite significantly affected its mechanical performance. Incorporation of 0.1 wt% nano Al2O3 in GEVIPN composite exhibited 17.69% and 27.64% improvement in flexural strength and toughness, respectively. Additionally, when the composites were subjected to elevated temperature testing, their mechanical performance was drastically affected. However, the test results revealed that nano Al2O3/GEVIPN composites possessed significantly improved mechanical degradation resistance at elevated temperatures. This new composite material could be utilized as structural materials in the civil, automotive, and marine industries. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis was performed to assess the composites' thermomechanical behavior. Fractography analysis of tested samples revealed the underlying phenomena, which dictate the mechanical performance at each testing temperature. A constitutive deformation model assessed the reliability of this new material at ambient and elevated test temperatures.
Fabrication strategy for long‐chain branched polypropylene foams with high resilience and compressive strength
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Wang Yaqiao , Wang Xiangdong
Published: August 2022

A flexible and controllable is proposed for fabricating long‐chain branched polypropylene (LCBPP) foams with high resilience and strength. LCBPP was blended with thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) using polyethylene octene elastomer grafted glycidyl methacrylate (POE‐g‐GMA) as a compatibilizer at different mass ratios, and the blends were then used to prepare foams at different temperatures by the supercritical CO2 batch foaming method. The foams were then tested for their compressive permanent strain and compressive strength. The results showed that introducing TPEE and POE‐g‐GMA increased the resilience. In particular, the permanent strain of the LCBPP/TPEE/POE‐g‐GMA foam at a ratio of 90/10/7 decreased from an initial 14.5% for the original LCBPP foam to 5% after five compression cycles. However, the compressive strength decreased from 65.59 to 39.82 kPa. Therefore, the foam density (ρ) and cell size (d) were adjusted to balance the resilience and strength. Increasing ρ/d from 0.32 to 3.10 increased the compressive strength significantly from 39.82 to 91.67 kPa while the permanent strain only increased 3.5%. Thus, the proposed strategy realized LCBPP foams with high resilience and compressive strength.
Microfluidic single‐cell scale‐down bioreactors: A proof‐of‐concept for the growth of Corynebacterium glutamicum at oscillating pH values
Authors: Täuber Sarah , Blöbaum Luisa , Steier Valentin , Oldiges Marco , Grünberger Alexander
Published: August 2022

In large‐scale bioreactors, gradients in cultivation parameters such as oxygen, substrate, and pH result in fluctuating cell environments. pH fluctuations were identified as a critical parameter for bioprocess performance. Traditionally, scale‐down systems at the laboratory scale are used to analyze the effects of fluctuating pH values on strains and thus process performance. Here, we demonstrate the application of dynamic microfluidic single‐cell cultivation (dMSCC) as a novel scale‐down system for the characterization of Corynebacterium glutamicum growth using oscillating pH conditions as a model stress factor. A detailed comparison between two‐compartment reactor (two‐CR) scale‐down experiments and dMSCC was performed for one specific pH oscillation between reference pH 7 (~8 min) and disturbed pH 6 (~2 min). Similar reductions in growth rates were observed in both systems (dMSCC 21% and two‐CR 27%) compared to undisturbed cultivation at pH 7. Afterward, systematic experiments at symmetric and asymmetric pH oscillations, between pH ranges of 4–6 and 8–11 and different intervals from 1 to 20 min, were performed to demonstrate the unique application range and throughput of the dMSCC system. Finally, the strength of the dMSCC application was demonstrated by mimicking fluctuating environmental conditions of a putative large‐scale bioprocess, which is difficult to conduct using two‐CRs.
High‐performance virtual globe GPU terrain rendering using game engine
Authors: Masood Zafar , Jiangbin Zheng , Irfan Muhammad , Ahmad Idrees
Published: August 2022

Virtual globes render planetary‐scale terrain and have limited support for 3D applications development. Game engines provide development environment for interactive 3D applications development and have limited support for world‐scale terrain rendering. The game engine based terrain rendering methods lacks hardware based tessellation for high‐performance. This work presents a novel method for a high‐performance large‐scale terrain rendering for high‐fidelity display systems using game engine. The proposed method performs patch‐based hierarchical culling of a multi‐resolution terrain model to reduce rendering load. A view‐based algorithm simplifies the patches with error control on GPU. Simplified patches are efficiently submitted for drawing using indirect mesh instancing feature of game engine. The proposed method utilizes hardware tessellation feature for high‐performance model tessellation and accurate earth's surface construction using displacement mapping. The proposed method is evaluated by rendering scenes for high‐quality output on consumer‐level hardware. Flights are performed with various settings and results are compared with clipmap‐based and state‐of‐the‐art hardware tessellation based adaptive methods. The proposed method achieved 750, 575, and 540 frames‐per‐second for HD, full‐HD, and ultra‐HD display resolutions.
Cucumis melo var. momordica as a Potent Antidiabetic, Antioxidant and Possible Anticovid Alternative: Investigation through Experimental and Computational Methods
Authors: Yadav Jagat Pal , Grishina Maria , Shahbaaz Mohd , Mukerjee Alok , Singh Sunil Kumar , Pathak Prateek
Published: August 2022

Diabetes mellitus is a typical life threatening of disease, which generate due to the dysfunction of β cells of pancreas. In 2014, WHO stated that 422 million people were infected with DM. The current pattern of management of diabetes included synthetic or plant based oral hypoglycemic drugs and insulin but drug resentence is become a very big issues in antidiabetic therapy. Thus, it's very earnest to discover now medication for this disease. Now the days, it is well acknowledged that diabetic patients are more prone towards covid and related complications. Thus, medical practitioners reformed the methodology of prescribing medication for covid infected antidiabetic therapy and encouraging the medication contains dual pharmacological properties. It is also well know that polyphenols specifically hold a significant role in oxidative stress and reduced the severity of many inflammatory diseases. Cucumis melo has rich history as ethano‐pharmacological use in Indian subcontinent. The fruit and seed are well‐known for the treatment of various diseases due to the presence of phenolics. Therefore, in this study, the combined mixture of flower and seeds were used for the extraction of polyphenolic rich extract and tested for antidiabetic activity through the antioxidant and in vivo experiments. The antioxidant potential measurement exhibited that the selected plant extract has the significant competence to down‐regulate oxidative stress (DPPH scavenging IC50 at 60.7±1.05 μg/mL, ABTS IC50 at 62.15±0.50 μg/mL). Furthermore, the major polyphenolic phyto‐compounds derived from the Cucumis melo were used for in silico anticovid activity, docking, and complementarity studies. The anticovid activity prognosis reflected that selected phyto‐compounds amentoflavone and vanillic acid have optimal possibility to interact with 3C‐like protease and through this moderate anticovid activity can be exhibit. The docking experiments established that the selected compounds have propensity to interact with protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B, 11β‐Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase β‐glucuronidase receptor. In vivo experiments showed that 500 mg/kg, Cucumis melo extract ominously amplified body weight, plasma insulin, high‐density lipoprotein levels, and biochemical markers. Furthermore, extract significantly downregulate the blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low‐density lipoprotein, and very low‐density lipoprotein.
Small intestinal bleeding and stricture caused by Meckel's diverticulum
Authors: Nakatani Shinya , Inoki Kazuya , Tashiro Tomoe , Yamaguchi Sayaka , Gocho Toshihiko , Yanagisawa Fumito , Konda Kenichi , Tojo Masayuki , Kubota Yutaro , Katagiri Atsushi , Yamamura Fuyuhiko , Takeuchi Yoshiaki , Tate Genshu , Komoto Masahiro , Yamazaki Kimiyasu , Murakami Masahiko , Yoshida Hitoshi
Published: August 2022

A 44‐year‐old man presented to our hospital with lower gastrointestinal bleeding. We performed balloon‐assisted enteroscopy, which revealed diverticulum and stricture at the ileum. The patient underwent segmental small bowel resection and diagnosed with Meckel's diverticulum. We should keep in mind the possibility of intestinal stricture due to Meckel's diverticulum.
Catalytic Diversification of gem‐Difluorocyclopropanes: Recent Advances and Challenges
Authors: Lv Leiyang , Qian Huijun , Li Zhiping
Published: August 2022

gem‐Difluorocyclopropanes (F2CPs) have aroused considerable attention not only from the structural perspective but also due to their ability to participate in various valuable transformations. This Review summarizes advances in catalytic ring‐opening reactions of gem‐F2CPs, especially emphasizing the reactivities and applications of those non‐activated ones under transition‐metal catalysis. Their achievements, synthetic applications and limitations are discussed with the aim to stimulate enthusiasm for further development.
Low‐tar, highly burnable gas production from the gasification of pelletized palm empty fruit bunch
Authors: Malek Nur Hanina , Alias Rusmi , Syed‐Hassan Syed Shatir A.
Published: August 2022

Gasification is an attractive method to convert lignocellulosic biomass into a combustible gas mixture for electricity and power generation. To control the tar concentration in the produced gas to be within the allowable limit of downstream applications, it is important for a gasification system to be integrated with a tar removal process. In this study, an integrated gasification system consisting of a downdraft gasifier and a secondary catalytic tar‐cracking reactor was designed and tested for the gasification of pelletized oil palm empty fruit bunch. To further purify the producer gas, the system was also integrated with a cyclone, a water scrubber, and a carbon‐bed filter. Biomass was fed at a rate of 5 kg/h, while the air equivalence ratio (ER) and the gasification temperature were set at 0.1 and 800°C, respectively. In total, 5 kg of the specially developed low‐cost Fe/activated carbons (AC) catalyst was used in the hot gas catalytic tar‐cracking reactor. Results indicate that our integrated gasification system was able to produce a clean burnable gas with a lower heating value (LHV) of 9.05 MJ/Nm3, carbon conversion efficiency (CCE) of 79.4%, cold gas efficiency (CGE) of 89.9%, and H2 and CH4 concentrations of 29.5% and 10.3%, respectively. The final outlet gas was found to only contain 32.5 mg/Nm3 of tar, thus making it suitable for internal combustion engine (ICE) application.
The First Class of Small Molecules Potently Disrupting the YAP‐TEAD Interaction by Direct Competition
Authors: Furet Pascal , Bordas Vincent , Le Douget Mickaël , Salem Bahaa , Mesrouze Yannick , Imbach‐Weese Patricia , Sellner Holger , Voegtle Markus , Soldermann Nicolas , Chapeau Emilie , Wartmann Markus , Scheufler Clemens , Fernandez Cesar , Kallen Joerg , Guagnano Vito , Chène Patrick , Schmelzle Tobias
Published: August 2022

Inhibition of the YAP‐TEAD protein‐protein interaction is an attractive therapeutic concept under intense investigation with the objective to treat cancers associated with a dysregulation of the Hippo pathway. However, owing to the very extended surface of interaction of the two proteins, the identification of small drug‐like molecules able to efficiently prevent YAP from binding to TEAD by direct competition has been elusive so far. We disclose here the discovery of the first class of small molecules potently inhibiting the YAP‐TEAD interaction by binding at one of the main interaction sites of YAP at the surface of TEAD. These inhibitors, providing a path forward to pharmacological intervention in the Hippo pathway, evolved from a weakly active virtual screening hit advanced to high potency by structure‐based design.
Growth Mechanism of Chromium Carbide Coating on Porous Carbon Paper
Authors: Zhang Wenjiao , Wu Jiajie , Wang Yanli
Published: August 2022

In this paper, Cr7C3 coating is prepared on porous carbon paper by the disproportionation reaction of Cr2+ in NaCl–KCl molten salt at 800–900 °C for 40–80 min. Effects of the molar ratio of chromium powders, temperature, and reaction time are investigated. The composition and microstructure of the coating are characterized by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Finally, the growth mechanism of Cr7C3 coating from the perspective of thermodynamics and kinetics is discussed.
Projected bioclimatic distributions in Nearctic Bovidae signal the potential for reduced overlap with protected areas
Authors: John Christian , Post Eric
Published: August 2022

Assumptions about factors such as climate in shaping species' realized and potential distributions underlie much of conservation planning and wildlife management. Climate and climatic change lead to shifts in species distributions through both direct and indirect ecological pressures. Distributional shifts may be particularly important if range overlap is altered between interacting species, or between species and protected areas. The cattle family (Bovidae) represents a culturally, economically, and ecologically important taxon that occupies many of the world's rangelands. In contemporary North America, five wild bovid species inhabit deserts, prairies, mountains, and tundra from Mexico to Greenland. Here, we aim to understand how future climate change will modify environmental characteristics associated with North American bovid species relative to the distribution of extant protected areas. We fit species distribution models for each species to climate, topography, and land cover data using observations from a citizen science dataset. We then projected modeled distributions to the end of the 21st century for each bovid species under two scenarios of anticipated climate change. Modeling results suggest that suitable habitat will shift inconsistently across species and that such shifts will lead to species‐specific variation in overlap between potential habitat and existing protected areas. Furthermore, projected overlap with protected areas was sensitive to the warming scenario under consideration, with diminished realized protected area under greater warming. Conservation priorities and designation of new protected areas should account for ecological consequences of climate change.
Evaluating the summer landscapes of predation risk and forage quality for elk (Cervus canadensis)
Authors: Paterson John Terrill , Proffitt Kelly M. , DeCesare Nicholas J. , Gude Justin A. , Hebblewhite Mark
Published: August 2022

The recovery of carnivore populations in North American has consequences for trophic interactions and population dynamics of prey. In addition to direct effects on prey populations through killing, predators can influence prey behavior by imposing the risk of predation. The mechanisms through which patterns of space use by predators are linked to behavioral response by prey and nonconsumptive effects on prey population dynamics are poorly understood. Our goal was to characterize population‐ and individual‐level patterns of resource selection by elk (Cervus canadensis) in response to risk of wolves (Canis lupus) and mountain lions (Puma concolor) and evaluate potential nonconsumptive effects of these behavioral patterns. We tested the hypothesis that individual elk risk‐avoidance behavior during summer would result in exposure to lower‐quality forage and reduced body fat and pregnancy rates. First, we evaluated individuals' second‐order and third‐order resource selection with a used‐available sampling design. At the population level, we found evidence for a positive relationship between second‐ and third‐order selection and forage, and an interaction between forage quality and mountain lion risk such that the relative probability of use at low mountain lion risk increased with forage quality but decreased at high risk at both orders of selection. We found no evidence of a population‐level trade‐off between forage quality and wolf risk. However, we found substantial among‐individual heterogeneity in resource selection patterns such that population‐level patterns were potentially misleading. We found no evidence that the diversity of individual resource selection patterns varied predictably with available resources, or that patterns of individual risk‐related resource selection translated into biologically meaningful changes in body fat or pregnancy rates. Our work highlights the importance of evaluating individual responses to predation risk and predator hunting technique when assessing responses to predators and suggests nonconsumptive effects are not operating at a population scale in this system.
Incremental prognostic value of left atrial strain in patients with heart failure
Authors: Bo Kairui , Gao Yifeng , Zhou Zhen , Gao Xuelian , Liu Tong , Zhang Hongkai , Li Qing , Wang Hui , Xu Lei
Published: August 2022

Aims

The present study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of atrial strain and strain rate (SR) parameters derived from cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) feature tracking (FT) in patients with ischaemic and non‐ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) but without atrial fibrillation.

Methods and results

A total of 300 patients who underwent CMR with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% and ischaemic or non‐ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy were analysed in this retrospective study. Major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) include cardiovascular death, heart transplantation, and rehospitalization for worsening HF. Ninety‐four patients had MACEs during median follow‐up of 3.84 years. Multivariate Cox regression models adjusted for common clinical and CMR risk factors detected a significant association between LA‐εs and MACE in ischaemic (HR = 0.94/%; P = 0.002), non‐ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy (HR = 0.88/%; P = 0.001), or all included patients (HR = 0.87; P < 0.001). LA‐εs provided incremental prognostic value over conventional outcome predictors (Uno C statistical comparison model: from 0.776 to 0.801, P < 0.0001; net reclassification improvement: 0.075, 95% CI: 0.0262–0.1301). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the risk of MACE occurrence increased significantly with lower tertiles of left atrial reservoir strain (LA‐εs) (log‐rank P < 0.0001). Patients in the worst LA‐εs tertile faced a significantly increased risk of MACEs irrespective of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) (log‐rank P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

LA‐εs derived from CMR FT has a significant prognostic impact on patients with ischaemic or non‐ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy, incremental to common clinical and CMR risk‐factors.
A systematic review: Solutions to problems caused by age transition between eating disorder services
Authors: Wade Tracey D.
Published: August 2022

Objective

This systematic review examines age transition issues specific to young people with eating disorders, including the extent of, and reasons for, problematic transition. Suggested solutions are examined, with focus on age‐integrated services.

Method

PsycINFO, Medline and SCOPUS databases were searched on 4 April, 2022 using two inclusion criteria: (1) a peer‐reviewed journal article in English, (2) focus on service transition caused by moving from childhood to adulthood for people with eating disorders. A narrative integration of the content was used.

Results

Of the 17 non‐overlapping studies located in the review, 6 involved quantitative data. Problematic transition between age‐based services was indicated, where a substantial minority of young people who still require help lose contact with speciality services. A variety of reasons for this problematic transition were identified, including differing and sometimes adversarial cultures between age‐based services. While a variety of solutions have been suggested, the least explored was the development of age integrated services; only 3 papers focussed primarily on this.

Conclusion

The consideration of the advantages of integration and the similarities between age‐based services suggested that these potentially outweigh the barriers to integration. An implementation science research agenda is required to test this hypothesis.
Out‐of‐Pocket expenditure and patient experience of care under‐Indonesia's national health insurance: A cross‐sectional facility‐based study in six provinces
Authors: Couturier Viktoria , Srivastava Swati , Hidayat Budi , De Allegri Manuela
Published: August 2022

Background

Low‐ and middle‐income countries worldwide are striving to achieve universal health coverage (UHC), frequently through expansion of statutory health insurance schemes. However, oftentimes evidence is lacking on progress towards quality patient‐centred care and out‐of‐pocket expenditure (OOPE), particularly for poor population groups. We contribute patient‐centred evidence examining patient experience and OOPE under JKN, the Indonesian social health insurance.

Methods

Using data from 2526 patient exit interviews conducted among JKN beneficiaries in 2015, we computed a summative patient experience measure from 14 experience items. We used descriptive statistics to assess patient experience and the probability, amount and components of OOPE. We applied a two‐part model to examine the relationships between socio‐demographics, facility types, and OOPE and an OLS regression on patient experience determinants.

Results

The mean patient experience measure was 11.7 out of 14 maximal points. Differences were observed between single items, with highest ratings on ease of understanding providers' language (97%) and lowest on waiting time (54%).

OOPE were reported by 20% of patients with a mean equivalent to US$40, the most prevalent reason being medicines (61% of all OOPE). Considerable OOPE heterogeneity occurred by province and facility type. We found differentials in OOPE by gender (females paying more likely, but less) and subsidised JKN membership (same likelihood as non‐subsidised, but paying less).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that during its early implementation, patients under JKN reported mostly positive patient experience yet a fifth incurred OOPE, mostly on medicines. Further patient‐centred research is needed to ensure JKN's progress towards UHC.
Early-Onset Osteoporosis: Rare Monogenic Forms Elucidate the Complexity of Disease Pathogenesis Beyond Type I Collagen
Authors: Costantini Alice , Mäkitie Riikka E. , Hartmann Markus A. , Fratzl-Zelman Nadja , Zillikens M. Carola , Kornak Uwe , Søe Kent , Mäkitie Outi
Published: August 2022

Early-onset osteoporosis (EOOP), characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) and fractures, affects children, premenopausal women and men aged <50 years. EOOP may be secondary to a chronic illness, long-term medication, nutritional deficiencies, etc. If no such cause is identified, EOOP is regarded primary and may then be related to rare variants in genes playing a pivotal role in bone homeostasis. If the cause remains unknown, EOOP is considered idiopathic. The scope of this review is to guide through clinical and genetic diagnostics of EOOP, summarize the present knowledge on rare monogenic forms of EOOP, and describe how analysis of bone biopsy samples can lead to a better understanding of the disease pathogenesis. The diagnostic pathway of EOOP is often complicated and extensive assessments may be needed to reliably exclude secondary causes. Due to the genetic heterogeneity and overlapping features in the various genetic forms of EOOP and other bone fragility disorders, the genetic diagnosis usually requires the use of next-generation sequencing to investigate several genes simultaneously. Recent discoveries have elucidated the complexity of disease pathogenesis both regarding genetic architecture and bone tissue-level pathology. Two rare monogenic forms of EOOP are due to defects in genes partaking in the canonical WNT pathway: LRP5 and WNT1. Variants in the genes encoding plastin-3 (PLS3) and sphingomyelin synthase 2 (SGMS2) have also been found in children and young adults with skeletal fragility. The molecular mechanisms leading from gene defects to clinical manifestations are often not fully understood. Detailed analysis of patient-derived transiliac bone biopsies gives valuable information to understand disease pathogenesis, distinguishes EOOP from other bone fragility disorders, and guides in patient management, but is not widely available in clinical settings. Despite the great advances in this field, EOOP remains an insufficiently explored entity and further research is needed to optimize diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Effect of Discordant Hip Bone Density on Incident Fracture Risk: A Registry-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Leslie William D. , Morin Suzanne N. , Lix Lisa M. , McCloskey Eugene V. , Johansson Helena , Harvey Nicholas C. , Kanis John A.
Published: August 2022

The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) combines clinical risk factors and optionally femoral neck bone density to estimate major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture probability. Hip dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) simultaneously measures the trochanter and total hip, but these regions are not considered by FRAX. Our aim was to determine whether discordance in trochanter and total hip bone density (defined as ≥1 T-score difference from the femoral neck) affects fracture risk adjusted for fracture probability. Using the Manitoba bone density registry, we identified 84,773 women and men age 40 years or older undergoing baseline hip DXA. The outcomes were incident MOF and hip fracture. Cox regression hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted for baseline fracture probability were used to test the association between hip T-score discordance and incident fractures. Hip T-score discordance affected more than one in five subjects (trochanter lower in 3.9%, higher in 14.2%; total hip lower in 0.3%, higher in 14.9%). After mean 8.8 years there were 8444 incident MOF including 2664 hip fractures. Discordantly lower trochanter and lower total hip T-score (≥1 below femoral neck) was associated with increased risk for MOF (adjusted HRs 1.47 and 1.60) and hip fracture (HRs 1.85 and 2.12), while discordantly higher trochanter and total hip T-score (≥1 above femoral neck) was associated with lower risk for MOF (HRs 0.83 and 0.71) and hip fracture (HRs 0.79 and 0.68). In models that examined the trochanter and total hip simultaneously, discordantly lower trochanter T-score was associated with increased incident MOF and hip fracture risk (HRs 1.43 and 1.79) whereas discordantly higher total hip T-score was associated with lower risk (HRs 0.73 and 0.75). In conclusion, trochanter and total hip regions frequently show T-scores that are discordant with the femoral neck. This information strongly affects incident fracture risk independent of fracture probability scores computed with femoral neck bone density. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Decreased Mortality and Subsequent Fracture Risk in Patients With a Major and Hip Fracture After the Introduction of a Fracture Liaison Service: A 3-Year Follow-Up Survey
Authors: Vranken Lisanne , de Bruin Irma J.A. , Driessen Annemariek H.M. , Geusens Piet P.M. , Eisman John A. , Center Jacqueline R. , van der Velde Robert Y. , Janzing Heinrich M.J. , Kaarsemaker Sjoerd , van den Bergh Joop P. , Wyers Caroline E.
Published: August 2022

Fracture liaison services (FLS) are considered to be the most effective organizational approach for secondary fracture prevention. In this study, we evaluated whether FLS care was associated with reduced subsequent fracture and mortality risk over 3 years of follow-up. In total, 8682 consecutive patients aged 50–90 years with a recent fracture were included. Before FLS introduction, regular fracture treatment procedures were followed (pre-FLS). After FLS introduction, patients were invited to the FLS and FLS attenders were assessed for osteoporosis, prevalent vertebral fractures, metabolic bone disorders, medication use, and fall risk, and treatment for fracture prevention was initiated according to Dutch guidelines. All fractures were radiographically confirmed and categorized into major/hip (pelvis, proximal humerus or tibia, vertebral, multiple rib, distal femur) and non-major/non-hip (all other fractures). Mortality risk was examined using age and sex adjusted Cox proportional hazard models. For subsequent fracture risk, Cox proportional hazard models were adjusted for age, sex, and competing mortality risk (subdistribution hazard [SHR] approach). The pre-FLS group consisted of 2530 patients (72% women), of whom 1188 (46.9%) had major/hip index fractures, the post-FLS group consisted of 6152 patients (69% women), of whom 2973 (48.3%) had major/hip index fractures. In patients with a non-major/non-hip fracture there was no difference in subsequent non-major/non-hip fracture risk or mortality between pre-FLS and post-FLS. In patients with a major/hip index fracture, mortality risk was lower post-FLS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73–0.96) and subsequent major/hip fracture risk was lower in the first 360 days after index fracture post-FLS compared to pre-FLS (SHR 0.67; 95% CI, 0.52–0.87). In conclusion, FLS care was associated with a lower mortality risk in the first 3 years and a lower subsequent major/hip fracture risk in the first year in patients with a major/hip index fracture but not in patients with a non-major/non-hip fracture. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Optimisation of ciprofloxacin removal by using polymer inclusion membrane and its multivariate analysis with half‐fractional factorial design
Authors: Olasupo Ayo , Sadiq Abubakar Chadi , Suah Faiz Bukhari Mohd
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

In this study, the use of polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) to attenuate the recalcitrant contaminant of ciprofloxacin (CIP) in an aquatic system is presented. Poly(vinyl)chloride (PVC) was used as the base polymer, bis−2‐(Ethylhexyl) phosphate (B2EHP) as the carrier, and dioctyl phthalate (DOP) as the plasticizer. Optimisation of the experiment was conducted using multivariate analysis of half‐fractional factorial design, focusing on parameters like pH of the source solution, the source solution's concentration, carrier composition, the concentration of the receiving solution, and extraction time.

RESULTS

It was found that PIMs with the composition of PVC 45%: B2EHP 25%: DOP 30% were the best suited for this purpose. The optimal removal efficiency of CIP was ˃99% at pH 6, 90% at pH 12, and 85% removal at neutral pH (7). After various optimisation steps, the method was applied to actual environmental wastewater and river samples with an average percentage removal efficiency of ˃97%.

CONCLUSION

This study has successfully demonstrated the feasibility of using PIMs for the removal of CIP antibiotics. Hence, it may be considered a practical treatment approach for other pharmaceutical residues in the aquatic system. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Measuring ramp use in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus)
Authors: Begum‐Diamond Zaimah , Neuhauser Johanna E. , Cameron Kristie E.
Published: August 2022

To investigate the utility of ramps as enrichment and as a method for establishing demand for commodities, the latency to climb a ramp of increasing slope to obtain food was measured in four guinea pigs. The average height where guinea pigs failed to climb was 29.1 cm (slope 14.2 degrees). In addition, the increasing slope altered climbing behavior; when climbing speed was tested using the same slope for all trials within a single session, the guinea pigs maintained their climbing speed as the gradient increased across sessions. In comparison, when the slope was increased with each successful climb within a session, climbing speed was not maintained. Installing the maximum slope climbed can promote increased exercise and foraging but avoid physical harm or barriers to resources. Furthermore, these results indicate that climbing, a simple behavior with measurable differences as a function of slope and thus, effort, could be used as a method for testing the demand for commodities, such as food type or enrichment items, to be included in the husbandry of guinea pigs to improve welfare of the small cavy.
Scanning electron microscopic studies of the antennal sensilla of Aplosonyx chalybaeus (Hope) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Marwein Cynthia Bansara , Das Khirod Sankar , Lyngdoh Nonglait Kasomhung Chanreila , Kharthangmaw Joycy Mary , Choudhury Sudipta
Published: August 2022

Aplosonyx chalybaeus is a major insect pest of the plant Colocasia which is commonly found in the North‐Eastern region of India. The antenna of A. chalybaeus is filiform, composed of a scape, a pedicel, and a flagellum with nine flagellomeres. The type, structure, and distribution of sensilla, on the antennae of the adult A. chalybaeus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Eight different types of sensilla were observed on the antennae using scanning electron microscopy, that is, sensilla trichodea, sensilla chaetica, sensilla basiconica, multiporous grooved pegs, sensilla auricillica, sensilla styloconica, glandular plates, and Böhm sensilla based on their external morphology. Distribution of all the antennal sensilla observed was discussed on the antenna. In addition, we discussed the putative functions of all the sensilla observed based on their external morphological and distributional characteristics on the antenna of the species.

Research Highlights

• External morphology and distribution of various antennal sensilla in male and female of Aplosonyx chalybaeus were described.

• Eight types with 17 subtypes of antennal sensilla were observed.

• Distinct sexual dimorphism was observed in occurrence and distribution of various sensilla.
Are genetic counselors prepared to counsel active‐duty service members? A survey of genetic counselors' self‐efficacy, counseling techniques, and knowledge of military policy
Authors: Kamen Michael , Hellwig Lydia D. , Maloney Kristin A. , Scott Jessica , Turner Clesson , Dixon Shannan
Published: August 2022

Given the expected rise in genomic sequencing projects within the US Military and the increased availability of genetic testing to the United States as a whole, current and prospective active‐duty service members (SMs) may undergo genetic counseling services in the civilian sector for pre‐test and post‐test counseling. The overall goal of this study was to better understand genetic counselors' preparedness to address military‐specific policies and psychosocial needs of patients from this underrepresented population. Members of the National Society of Genetic Counselors were asked to complete a four‐part survey including demographic information, Likert scale questions to separately rate self‐efficacy when working with civilians and SMs, case scenarios with multiple‐choice options and open‐ended responses to assess knowledge of military policy, and open‐ended questions regarding psychosocial scenarios related to military service. Eighty‐eight responses were analyzed using Microsoft Office Excel for the qualitive thematic analysis and SPSS/RStudio for the quantitative data. While over 75% (n = 69/88, SD = 0.48) of surveyed genetic counselors scored 4 of 4 on knowledge of military policy and reported similarly high levels of self‐efficacy when working with SMs (mean = 26.77 out of 30, SD = 4.15) and the general population (mean = 27.99 out of 30, SD = 4.31), the qualitative data suggested an alternative perspective. Up to 57% (n = 50/88) of responses were scored as expressing low confidence concerning knowledge of military policy. One potential explanation for this uncertainty may be due to participants reporting that they never (69.32% (n = 61/88]) or are unsure if (12.50% (n = 11/88]) they received training related to providing counseling services to SMs. We suggest the establishment of educational initiatives for genetic counselors focusing on how to discuss genetic testing with SMs in relation to their health and safety, well‐being, and potential employment implications.
Dynamic Prediction of Survival for Sinonasal Extranodal Natural Killer/T‐cell Lymphoma
Authors: Wang Taiqin , Qiu Yanyan , Shi Liangwen , Chen Dongxu , Chen Xiaoqiang , Liu Jianzhi , Liu Tingbo
Published: August 2022

Background

Extranodal natural killer/ T‐cell lymphoma (ENKTL) is a rare malignant tumor. This study aimed to develop a predictive nomogram and a web‐based survival rate calculator for dynamically predicting the survival of patients with sinonasal ENKTL (SN‐ENKTL).

Methods

This study investigated patients (n = 134) with SN‐ENKTL who had been initially treated in our hospital between Jan 2008 and Dec 2016. The patients were randomly divided into training and validation cohorts, in a 7:3 ratio. Independent prognostic factors were identified and integrated to build a predictive nomogram and a web‐based calculator using the Cox‐regression model. The nomogram was evaluated by consistency index and calibration curve.

Results

Age, lactate dehydrogenase, hemoglobin, Epstein–Barr virus DNA, and Ann Arbor stage were identified as independent risk factors. We constructed a predictive nomogram for survival and a web‐based calculator (https://taiqinwang.shinyapps.io/DynNomapp/).

Conclusion

This study developed a prognostic model and a web‐based calculator specifically focused on SN‐ENKTL for otolaryngologists to use to facilitate timely treatment decisions for the disease.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:1645–1651, 2023