bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutations involving TGFB and MAPK may be associated with malignancy in granular cell tumors
Authors: Dehner Carina A. , Moon Tyler , Lyu Yang , Zhang Xiaochun , Zhou Zhaohe , Yang Kuangying , Chrisinger John S. A. , Griffin Anthony , Wunder Jay , Dickson Brendan C. , Hirbe Angela C.
Published: January 2023

Granular cell tumors (GrCTs) are mesenchymal neoplasms of presumed schwannian differentiation that may present as solitary or multifocal lesions with excision usually being curative. A minority of cases, however, show histological features associated with an increased risk for metastasis and are highly aggressive leading to death in about a third of cases. While benign and malignant cases have been shown to harbor mutations in the H + ATPase genes, there is only limited data examining molecular aberrations associated with malignancy. The departmental archives were searched for cases of atypical/malignant GrCTs. Clinical and histopathological features were noted. Whole‐exome sequencing was performed. Three cases of malignant GrCTs and one case of atypical GrCTs were included. All three malignant tumors metastasized to distant sites with a median disease‐free survival of 16 months and an overall follow‐up time of 35 months. Whole‐exome sequencing showed mutations involving TGFβ and MAPK pathways in all four tumors. Although the cohort size is small, our preliminary findings suggest that mutations involving the TGFβ and MAPK pathways may be associated with tumor progression or malignant transformation in GrCT pathogenesis.
Late Holocene river dynamics and sedimentation in the Lower Ganga plains, India
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Sujay , Sinha Subhajit , Kumar Anil , Srivastava Pradeep , Jana Narayan Chandra
Published: January 2023

Packages of fluvial systems in the Lower Ganga plains (LGP) archive the changes in stratigraphic architecture induced by perturbations in the climatic system. In some parts of this landscape, where the fluvial sequences predominate, the role of climate in landsculpting is strongly indicated by the presence of sediment architecture. The present study is focused on the formation of alluvial plains of the Ajay River in the Rarh region that represent a region's environmental templates for understanding the landscape of LGP. The sedimentological, geomorphological, and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) chronological investigations were attempted to document sedimentation patterns and the timing of deposition. The stratigraphic data from two exposed cliff sections and three boreholes are compared with proxy records to understand the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) controls on alluvial sedimentation for the last ~2.4 ka. The fluvial packages in the study area correspond to two significant channel phases: Period‐I (2.4–1.3 ka) and Period‐II (800–200 years ago). Period‐I is characterized by the episodes of floodplain development and lateral migration of the trunk river during Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) I, especially around 2 ka corresponding to the Roman Warm (RW) period in the Indian subcontinent. The sediment filling was high during ~2.4 ka due to ISM intensification, but in the later stage, the sedimentation was at a fairly steady rate. Conversely, Period‐II is characterized by flooding phenomena and aggradation of channel bodies across much of the present valley area during the last 800 years. The distinct flood events occurred during the times of significant shifts in ISM, from fluvial dormancy to sudden outbursts of monsoons (end of Little Ice Age [LIA] ~ 19th century), indicating that climatic patterns can be associated with the occurrences of abrupt flood events. The alluvial records fit well with the historical, instrumental, and published proxy data on the ISM validating the chronology and the potential of sedimentary archives for further studies related to the palaeoenvironment and palaeogeography.
Systematic comparison of culture media uncovers phenotypic shift of primary human microglia defined by reduced reliance to CSF1R signaling
Authors: Dorion Marie‐France , Yaqubi Moein , Murdoch Hunter J. , Hall Jeffery A. , Dudley Roy , Antel Jack P. , Durcan Thomas Martin , Healy Luke Michael
Published: January 2023

Efforts to understand microglia function in health and diseases have been hindered by the lack of culture models that recapitulate in situ cellular properties. In recent years, the use of serum‐free media with brain‐derived growth factors (colony stimulating factor 1 receptor [CSF1R] ligands and TGF‐β1/2) have been favored for the maintenance of rodent microglia as they promote morphological features observed in situ. Here we study the functional and transcriptomic impacts of such media on human microglia (hMGL). Media formulation had little impact on microglia transcriptome assessed by RNA sequencing which was sufficient to significantly alter microglia capacity to phagocytose myelin debris and to elicit an inflammatory response to lipopolysaccharide. When compared to immediately ex vivo microglia from the same donors, the addition of fetal bovine serum to culture media, but not growth factors, was found to aid in the maintenance of key signature genes including those involved in phagocytic processes. A phenotypic shift characterized by CSF1R downregulation in culture correlated with a lack of reliance on CSF1R signaling for survival. Consequently, no improvement in cell survival was observed following culture supplementation with CSF1R ligands. Our study provides better understanding of hMGL in culture, with observations that diverge from those previously made in rodent microglia.
Cyclophosphamide etoposide dexamethasone as salvage and bridging therapy in relapsed refractory and extramedullary multiple myeloma
Authors: Kauer Joseph , Sester Lilli Sophie , Kriegsmann Katharina , Weinhold Niels , Ober Michael , Müller‐Tidow Carsten , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Raab Marc‐Steffen , Sauer Sandra
Published: January 2023

Patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) that are triple‐exposed to immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors, and anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibodies have a poor prognosis. Standard treatment for these patients has not been established. Patients with extramedullary disease or secondary plasma cell leukemia often display high tumor cell proliferation and might therefore be susceptible to chemotherapy. While current regimens are often platinum‐based, we present single‐center data on 70 patients with RRMM who were treated with cyclophosphamide, etoposide, and dexamethasone (CED) after a median of four lines of therapy. An overall response rate of 52% was achieved after 1–6 cycles, with 23% of patients having a very good partial response. Comparable response rates and survival were observed in patients with extramedullary disease and high‐risk cytogenetics. Treatment resulted in non‐hematological °III‐IV adverse events in 31% of patients. No treatment‐related deaths occurred. The median progression‐free and overall survival were 6.2 and 10.9 months, respectively. 23% of patients were bridged to autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy. In summary, CED is an effective treatment regimen for RRMM cases with a tolerable safety profile and suitable as bridging therapy to CAR T cell treatment and ASCT.
Prognostic value of prognostic nutritional index on extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma patients: A multicenter propensity score matched analysis of 1022 cases in Huaihai Lymphoma Working Group
Authors: Shen Ziyuan , Zhang Shuo , Chen Xicheng , Zhang Qing , Jiao Yaxue , Shi Yuye , Zhang Hao , Ye Jingjing , Wang Ling , Zhu Taigang , Miao Yuqing , Wang Liang , Cai Guoqi , Sang Wei
Published: January 2023

Prognostic nutritional index (PNI), comprised of serum albumin level and lymphocyte count, is associated with the prognosis of several malignant diseases, while the prognostic value of PNI in extranodal natural killer/T cell lymphoma, nasal type (ENKTL) remains unclear. This retrospective multicenter study aimed to investigate the value of PNI in predicting the prognosis of newly diagnosed ENKTL patients by using propensity score matched analysis (PSM). A total of 1022 newly diagnosed ENKTL patients were retrieved from Huaihai Lymphoma Working Group and clinicopathological variables were collected. MaxStat analysis was used to calculate the optimal cut‐off points of PNI and other continuous variables. The median age at diagnosis was 47 years and 69.4% were males, with the 5‐year OS of 71.7%. According to the MaxStat analysis, 41 was the optimal cut‐off point for PNI. The Pseudo R2 before matching was 0.250, and it decreased to less than 0.019 after matching. Confounding factors of the two groups were well balanced after PSM. Multivariable analysis revealed that PNI, Korean Prognostic Index (KPI), eastern cooperative oncology group performance status (ECOG PS), the prognostic index of natural killer lymphoma (PINK) and hemoglobin were independent prognostic factors for ENKTL. The results of subgroup analysis demonstrated that patients with low PNI could predict worse prognosis and re‐stratify patients in ECOG PS ≥ 2, EBER‐positive, the International Prognostic Index (IPI) (HIR + HR), and PINK (HR) groups. PNI combined with IPI, PINK and KPI could improve the prediction efficiency. In conclusion, PNI could accurately stratify the prognosis of ENKTL by PSM analysis and patients with low PNI had poorer prognosis.
A scoping review of foot and ankle telemedicine guidelines
Authors: Stojmanovski Mercieca Lisa Ann , Formosa Cynthia , Chockalingam Nachiappan
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

The COVID‐19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine in general. Its use has been widely adopted in the healthcare sector, but relatively little research has been conducted on the use of telemedicine for podiatry. This review aimed to explore and compare existing guidelines on telemedicine related to foot and ankle pathologies within a primary care setting.

Methods

The preferred reporting guidelines for the extension of scoping reviews were used in this review, and a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed and implemented. This study made use of both databases and gray literature searches. Between 2012 and 2022, these databases were searched using various subject headings and free‐text terms for the keywords “telemedicine” “foot health” and “guidelines” with appropriate Boolean operators.

Results

The search yielded 356 articles, which were reduced to 283 after removing duplicates. Six more records were discovered through a Google and Google Scholar search and one through an article reference search. Six articles and three institutional practice guidelines were selected for synthesis after screening. The findings were classified according to the level of evidence and research quality, the function of telemedicine and the communication used, the research outcomes sought, and the type of recommendations and guidelines made available.

Conclusion

This review highlights the lack of podiatric telemedicine guidelines for foot and ankle pathologies. Although foot and ankle guidelines for orthopedic and musculoskeletal virtual consultations have been mentioned, they do not cover the full range of potential case scenarios that fall within the remit of podiatric consultations in a primary care setting. This review suggests the development of foot and ankle telemedicine guidelines with recommendations on how they can better provide accessible care to their patients, making foot and ankle care management not only a hand‐on‐one but also reachable virtually, where applicable.
Latin America: Knowledge diversity for a sustainable future
Authors: Chiang Gustavo , Umbuzeiro Gisela , Lo Nostro Fabiana
Published: January 2023

National and international collaboration and the incorporation of perspectives from outside academia are essential parts of a paradigm shift in science and are necessary for a sustainable future. The articles in this special series “Diversity of Knowledge for a Sustainable Future in Latin America” exemplify many of these aspects, showcasing the latest research and environmental policies for the protection of water, soil, and human health related to several pollutants, for example, microplastics, hydrocarbons, metals, and pesticides. Knowledge—built in an environment where communities are participants in this construction and not only subjects—helps promote understanding of the transdisciplinary nature of environmental issues provided by a diversity of traditional and nontraditional participants. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:613–614. © 2023 SETAC
Synthesis and Potential of Autoinducer‐2 and Analogs to Manipulate Inter‐Species Quorum Sensing
Authors: Rodrigues Miguel V. , Kis Peter , Xavier Karina B. , Ventura M. Rita
Published: January 2023

Quorum sensing (QS) is enabled by the production of signalling molecules called autoinducers, whose presence in the environment modulates the behavior of bacterial populations. Autoinducer‐2 (AI‐2) is unique as it is recognized by different species of bacteria and fosters signalling across different species. To further understand QS mechanisms and to discover potential novel therapeutics based on the modulation of bacterial behavior many analogs have been synthesized. This review aims to provide a critical analysis of the state‐of‐the‐art of the synthesis of AI‐2 and its analogs. It serves as a non‐exhaustive consolidation of previous studies of analogs, focusing on the synthetic approaches and the structure‐activity relationship conclusions drawn after the analysis of the chemical libraries of the research groups involved in the field. This article is intended to be a strong foundation for the rational planning of synthetic strategies of analogs with specific bioactivities.
Medical misinformation: A primer and recommendations for pharmacists
Authors: Goldwire Micheline Andel , Johnson Steven T. , Abdalla Maha , Advani Ashish , Bernknopf Allison , Colella Angela , Kehr Heather A. , Kier Karen , May Dianne , May J. Russell , Picone Mary Frances , Saad Maha , Thornby Krisy Ann , Ward Kristina
Published: January 2023

Medical misinformation is more pervasive today because of widespread and near instantaneous dissemination of information via the internet and social media platforms. Consequences of medical misinformation may include decreased uptake of needed health care resources, delays in seeking care, vaccine hesitancy, medication non‐compliance, increased disease outbreaks and/or burden, and increased hospitalization and mortality. It disproportionately impacts underserved populations, including Black patients, those who identify as LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and more), and patients with reduced health literacy skills or who are digitally disadvantaged. Medical misinformation challenges health care professionals not only to provide the best care possible, but to assist patients in finding accurate information. Preprint publications, although potentially beneficial in rapidly disseminating new scientific discoveries, often have not undergone peer review and may contribute to the widespread propagation of inaccurate or overstated results, thereby perpetuating the spread of medical misinformation when it exists. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic highlighted the importance of practicing evidence‐based medicine and the need for cautious review of preprint publications and articles from predatory publishers in addition to usual and customary literature evaluation techniques. Everyone plays a role in preventing the spread of medical misinformation, with pharmacists uniquely positioned as trusted and highly accessible professionals who may help combat its spread. The goal of this article is to define medical misinformation and related terms, outline mechanisms by which it is spread, describe its clinical impact, highlight how it disproportionately impacts underserved populations, provide actionable strategies to prevent its spread, and give examples of practical tactics to help identify, correct, and alert individuals about the possible presence of medical misinformation.
Breaking outside the box: Use of escape rooms in pharmacy residency interviews
Authors: Lock Ashley E. , Hand Elizabeth O. , Hall Reed , Robinson Ellen E.
Published: January 2023

Background

The American Society of Health‐System Pharmacists Pharmacy Resident Match continues to be a competitive process. In recent years, postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) applicants have outpaced available positions. An increase in the number of highly qualified applicants has made identification of standout candidates challenging for residency programs. There is a need to assess nonacademic attributes, such as: leadership, communication, teamwork, problem‐solving, and self‐awareness. These are essential to pharmacy resident success, though are not easily elicited with traditional interview questions.

Aims

The purpose of this interview escape room activity was to observe and differentiate PGY1 pharmacy residency candidates' nonacademic attributes and clinical knowledge through real‐time, problem‐based engagement. This descriptive report details the program's use of team‐based escape rooms in the pharmacy residency interview process and provides recommendations for developing and implementing an interview escape room activity.

Materials and Methods

The interview escape room was conducted for a PGY1 program at a large, academic medical center in San Antonio, Texas, during the 2020–2022 residency recruitment seasons. Participants were observed and assessed using the Communication and Teamwork Skills assessment.

Results

The escape room allowed candidates to showcase their academic and nonacademic skills in various ways. Candidates reported feeling more relaxed than in traditional interviews.

Discussion

Elements of developing an interview escape room activity include planning and design, theme selection, knowledge and puzzle pairing, content testing, execution, and feedback.

Conclusion

Interview escape rooms provide insight into the skillset of candidates in the areas of communication, leadership, and teamwork, and create a memorable interview experience for both candidates and residency leadership.
Intersectional microaggressions, depressive symptoms, and the role of LGBTQ‐specific parental support in a sample of Latinx sexual and gender minority youth
Authors: Abreu Roberto L. , Tyler Lefevor G. , Barrita Aldo M. , Gonzalez Kirsten A. , Watson Ryan J.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Latinx and sexual and gender minority (SGM) youth experience higher incidents of racism, cissexism, and heterosexism in the forms of overt discrimination and microaggressions. These experiences could in part explain increased negative mental health outcomes, such as depressive symptoms. Evidence points to the possibility that LGBTQ‐specific parental support buffers the effects of intersectional microaggressions on depressive symptoms among Latinx SGM youth.

Methods

In a sample of 1292 Latinx SGM youth (ages 13–17), we assessed: a) the association between LGBTQ‐specific parental support and depressive symptoms, b) the associations between three forms of intersectional microaggressions and depressive symptoms, and c) whether parental LGBTQ‐specific parental support moderated the relationship between three forms of intersectional microaggressions and depressive symptoms. Main effect and moderation analyses examined interactions between LGBTQ‐specific parental support with each of the three forms of intersectional microaggressions on depressive symptoms.

Results

We found that Latinx transgender youth experienced higher intersectional microaggressions compared to their cisgender counterparts and that Latinx SGM youth who reported lower LGBTQ‐specific parental support experienced higher depressive symptoms. We also identified a significant interaction between intersectional microaggressions and LGBTQ‐specific parental support, suggesting that parental support was more protective at low rather than high levels of intersectional microaggressions.

Conclusions

Findings suggest a need for future work examining culturally appropriate approaches to foster a supportive parent‐child relationship among Latinx SGM youth and their parental figures.
Peptide grafting on intraosseous transcutaneous amputation prostheses to promote sealing with skin cells: Potential to limit infections
Authors: Ghribi Nawel , Guay‐Bégin Andrée‐Anne , Bilem Ibrahim , Chevallier Pascale , Auger François A. , Ruel Jean , Laroche Gaétan
Published: January 2023

The long‐term success of intraosseous transcutaneous amputation prostheses (ITAPs) mainly relies on dermal attachment of skin cells to the implant. Otherwise, bacteria can easily penetrate through the interface between the implant and the skin. Therefore, infection at this implant/skin interface remains a significant complication in orthopedic surgeries in which these prostheses are required. Two main strategies were investigated to prevent these potential infection problems which consist in either establishing a strong sealing at the skin/implant interface or on eradicating infections by killing bacteria. In this work, two adhesion peptides, either KRGDS or KYIGSR and one antimicrobial peptide, Magainin 2 (Mag 2), were covalently grafted via phosphonate anchor arms to the surface of the Ti6Al4V ELI (extra low interstitials) material, commonly used to manufacture ITAPs. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, contact angle, and confocal microscopy analyses enabled to validate the covalent and stable grafting of these three peptides. Dermal fibroblasts cultures on bare Ti6Al4V ELI surfaces and functionalized ones displayed a good cell adhesion and proliferation on all samples. However, cell spreading and viability appeared to be improved on grafted surfaces, especially for those conjugated with KRGDS and Mag 2. Moreover, the dermal sheet attachment, was significantly higher on surfaces functionalized with Mag 2 as compared to the other surfaces. Therefore, the surface functionalization with the antimicrobial peptide Mag 2 seems to be the best approach for the targeted application, as it could play a dual role, inducing a strong skin adhesion while limiting infections on Ti6Al4V ELI materials.
Informing measurement of gender differences in suicide risk and resilience: A national study of United States military veterans
Authors: Smolenski Derek J. , McDonald Katie L. , Hoffmire Claire A. , Britton Peter C. , Carlson Kathleen F. , Dobscha Steven K. , Denneson Lauren M.
Published: January 2023

Objective

To inform measure selection when examining gender differences in suicide risk, this paper evaluates measure performance for a set of gender‐relevant constructs and examines gender differences in mean scores.

Methods

A national sample of veterans (n = 968) who had recently attempted suicide (past 6 months) completed measures assessing life experience‐, psychosocial‐, and health‐related constructs. A multigroup latent variable model was used to assess similarity of measurement properties between women and men.

Results

Metric and scalar invariance indicated that the latent variables functioned similarly between women and men. Women had higher scores on negative coping, institutional betrayal, and social rejection; men had higher scores on self‐compassion, autonomy, and suicide ideation.

Conclusions

Measurement properties and gender differences in mean values support the use of these measures for research on gender differences. Findings also suggest further investigation of social rejection, institutional betrayal, and negative coping among women veterans at risk for suicide.
Dysregulated cholesterol regulatory genes as a diagnostic biomarker for cancer
Authors: Kuldeep Seema , Soni Sneha , Srivastava Anubhav , Mishra Anjali , Sharma Lokendra Kumar , Mandal Chandi C.
Published: January 2023

Background

A dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis is often seen in various cancer cell types, and elevated cholesterol content and that of its metabolites appears to be crucial for cancer progression and metastasis. Cholesterol is a precursor of various steroid hormones and a key plasma membrane component especially in lipid‐rafts, also modulating many intracellular signaling pathways.

Methods

To provide an insight of dysregulated cholesterol regulatory genes, their transcript levels were analyzed in different cancers and their influence was correlated with the overall survival of cancer patients using cancer database analysis.

Results

This analysis found a set of genes (e.g., ACAT1, RXRA, SOAT1 and SQLE) that were not only often dysregulated, but also had been associated with poorer overall survival in most cancer types. Quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed elevated SQLE and SOAT1 transcript levels and downregulated expression of RXRA and ACAT1 genes in triple negative breast cancer tissues compared to adjacent control tissues, indicating that this dysregulated expression of the gene signature is a diagnostic marker for breast cancer.

Conclusion

For the first time, the present study identified a gene signature associated with the dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis in cancer cells that may not only be used as a diagnostic marker, but also comprise a promising drug target for the advancement of cancer therapy.
Validation of a targeted metabolomics panel for improved second‐tier newborn screening
Authors: Mak Justin , Peng Gang , Le Anthony , Gandotra Neeru , Enns Gregory M. , Scharfe Curt , Cowan Tina M.
Published: January 2023

Improved second‐tier assays are needed to reduce the number of false positives in newborn screening (NBS) for inherited metabolic disorders including those on the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP). We developed an expanded metabolite panel for second‐tier testing of dried blood spot (DBS) samples from screen‐positive cases reported by the California NBS program, consisting of true‐ and false‐positives from four disorders: glutaric acidemia type I (GA1), methylmalonic acidemia (MMA), ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD), and very long‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCADD). This panel was assembled from known disease markers and new features discovered by untargeted metabolomics and applied to second‐tier analysis of single DBS punches using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) in a 3‐min run. Additionally, we trained a Random Forest (RF) machine learning classifier to improve separation of true‐ and false positive cases. Targeted metabolomic analysis of 121 analytes from DBS extracts in combination with RF classification at a sensitivity of 100% reduced false positives for GA1 by 83%, MMA by 84%, OTCD by 100%, and VLCADD by 51%. This performance was driven by a combination of known disease markers (3‐hydroxyglutaric acid, methylmalonic acid, citrulline, and C14:1), other amino acids and acylcarnitines, and novel metabolites identified to be isobaric to several long‐chain acylcarnitine and hydroxy‐acylcarnitine species. These findings establish the effectiveness of this second‐tier test to improve screening for these four conditions and demonstrate the utility of supervised machine learning in reducing false‐positives for conditions lacking clearly discriminating markers, with future studies aimed at optimizing and expanding the panel to additional disease targets.
Systemic corticosteroids for the treatment of acute episodes of rhabdomyolysis in lipin‐1‐deficient patients
Authors: Tuchmann‐Durand Caroline , Roda Célina , Renard Perrine , Mortamet Guillaume , Bérat Claire‐Marine , Altenburger Lucile , de Larauz Marie Hug , Thevenet Eloise , Cottart Charles‐Henry , Moulin Florence , Bouchereau Juliette , Brassier Anais , Arnoux Jean‐Baptiste , Schiff Manuel , Bednarek Nathalie , Lamireau Delphine , Garros Alexa , Mention Karine , Cano Aline , Finger Lionel , Pelosi Michele , Brochet Cécile Sergent , Caccavelli Laure , Raphalen Jean‐Herlé , Renolleau Sylvain , Oualha Mehdi , de Lonlay Pascale
Published: January 2023

Mutations in the LPIN1 gene constitute a major cause of severe rhabdomyolysis (RM). The TLR9 activation prompted us to treat patients with corticosteroids in acute conditions. In patients with LPIN1 mutations, RM and at‐risk situations that can trigger RM have been treated in a uniform manner. Since 2015, these patients have also received intravenous corticosteroids. We retrospectively compared data on hospital stays by corticosteroid‐treated patients vs. patients not treated with corticosteroids. Nineteen patients were hospitalized. The median number of admissions per patient was 21 overall and did not differ when comparing the 10 corticosteroid‐treated patients with the 9 patients not treated with corticosteroids. Four patients in the non‐corticosteroid group died during a RM (mean age at death: 5.6 years). There were no deaths in the corticosteroid group. The two groups did not differ significantly in the number of RM episodes. However, for the six patients who had RM and occasionally been treated with corticosteroids, the median number of RM episodes was significantly lower when intravenous steroids had been administered. The peak plasma creatine kinase level and the area under the curve were or tended to be higher in patients treated with corticosteroids—even after the exclusion of deceased patients or focusing on the period after 2015. The median length of stay (10 days overall) was significantly longer for corticosteroid‐treated patients but was similar after the exclusion of deceased patients. The absence of deaths and the higher severity of RM observed among corticosteroid‐treated patients could suggest that corticotherapy is associated with greater survival.
Molecular advances in mycoremediation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: Exploring fungal bacterial interactions
Authors: Bokade Priyanka , Bajaj Abhay
Published: January 2023

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous high global concern environmental pollutants and tend to bioaccumulate due to hydrophobic properties. These xenobiotics, having variable concentrations along different matrices, gradually undergo various physical, chemical, and biological transformation processes. Myco‐remediation aids accelerated degradation by effectively transforming complex ring structures to oxidized/hydroxylated intermediates, which can further funnel to bacterial degradation pathways. Exploitation of such complementing fungal−bacterial enzymatic activity can overcome certain limitations of incomplete bioremediation process. Furthermore, high‐throughput molecular methods can be employed to unveil community structure, taxon abundance, coexisting community interactions, and metabolic pathways under stressed conditions. The present review critically discusses the role of different fungal phyla in PAHs biotransformation and application of fungal−bacterial cocultures for enhanced mineralization. Moreover, recent advances in bioassays for PAH residue detection, monitoring, developing xenobiotics stress‐tolerant strains, and application of fungal catabolic enzymes are highlighted. Application of next‐generation sequencing methods to reveal complex ecological networks based on microbial community interactions and data analysis bias in performing such studies is further discussed in detail. Conclusively, the review underscores the application of mixed‐culture approach by critically highlighting in situ fungal−bacterial community nexus and its role in complete mineralization of PAHs for the management of contaminated sites.
Differential effects of rhizobacteria from uninfected and infected tomato on Meloidogyne incognita under protected cultivation
Authors: Gowda Manjunatha T. , Prasanna Radha , Kundu Aditi , Rana Virendra Singh , Rao Uma , Chawla Gautam
Published: January 2023

Intermingled uninfected and root‐knot nematode‐infected tomato plants are commonly observed under protected cultivation. To understand the role of rhizobacteria underlying the susceptibility to nematode infectivity in these tomato plants, 36 rhizobacteria (18 from each type) with morphologically distinct colony characteristics were isolated from the rhizosphere of uninfected and root‐knot nematode‐infected tomato plants. The in vitro nematicidal potential of rhizobacteria from the uninfected rhizosphere was significantly higher than that from the infested rhizosphere. The three most effective antagonists were identified as Microbacterium laevaniformans, Staphylococcus kloosii, Priestia aryabhattai from root‐knot‐nematode‐infected tomato rhizosphere and Staphylococcus sciuri, Bacillus pumilus, and Priestia megaterium from the rhizosphere of uninfected tomato. Volatile organic compounds from these rhizobacteria were characterized. Except for S. kloosi, the soil drenching with other rhizobacteria significantly reduced juvenile penetration (>60%) in tomato roots. Furthermore, the application of a single or consortium of these rhizobacteria affected nematode reproduction in tomato. Four consortia of rhizobacteria (S. sciuri + B. pumilus + P. megaterium), (B. pumilus + P. megaterium), (S. sciuri + B. pumilus), and (S. sciuri + P. megaterium) from uninfested rhizosphere and two consortia (M. laevaniformans + P. aryabhattai), (M. laevaniformans + S. kloosii + P. aryabhattai) from infested rhizosphere (IRh) effectively reduced M. incognita reproduction and considerably enhanced plant growth and yield in tomato. The nematicidal efficacy, however, decreased when S. kloosii was applied in the consortium. These distinctive effects illustrate how the plant susceptibility to nematode infectivity is modulated under natural conditions.
Inflammation and micronutrient deficiency as major risk factors for anemia in children with intestinal failure: A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Leite Heitor P. , Hatanaka Eduardo F. , Galati Sabio Giovana S. , Carvalho de Camargo Maria F.
Published: January 2023

Background

Most data on anemia in children with intestinal failure (IF) have been obtained from studies in which the data were collected at a single point in time. We aimed to identify the frequency of anemia and factors associated with hemoglobin levels in children with IF during their course of home parenteral nutrition.

Methods

We performed a longitudinal cohort study of patients with IF followed up at a pediatric intestinal rehabilitation center. Outcome variables were hemoglobin levels and prevalence of anemia during the follow‐up period. The exposure variables were age, duration of parenteral nutrition, chronic disease, and serum concentrations of C‐reactive protein, iron, copper, selenium, vitamins A, D, B12, and folic acid.

Results

Twenty‐five children with a median time of receiving parenteral nutrition of 40.7 months were included. A median (and interquartile range) of 40.7 (25.2–58) hemoglobin measurements were performed per patient. Mean (SD) hemoglobin was 10.7 (1.8) g/dL at baseline and 11.6 (0.9) g/dL in the last observation (paired t test, P = 0.07); 32% of patients had mean hemoglobin values below the lower limit for age. In a multivariable predictive model, having C‐reactive protein >1 mg/dL was associated with a decrease of 0.57 g/dL in hemoglobin (95% CI, −0.90 to −0.24, P = 0.01), and an increase of 1 mg/L in vitamin A concentration was associated with the increase of 0.93 g/dL in Hb level (95% CI, 0.24–1.61; P = 0.008).

Conclusion

Anemia affects almost one‐third of children with IF and its frequency decreases during the follow‐up period. Hemoglobin levels are associated with inflammatory response and serum micronutrient concentrations.
Impact of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy on pediatric bone marrow transplantation outcomes: Retrospectice single‐center cohort study
Authors: Kairiene Igne , Vaisvilas Mantas , Vasciunaite Agnija , Tubutyte Geiste , Nedzelskiene Irena , Pasauliene Ramune , Muleviciene Audrone , Rascon Jelena
Published: January 2023

Background

Parenteral nutrition is commonly used to ensure nutrition support and prevent the harmful effects of malnutrition, which frequently occurs after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT). Nevertheless, enteral nutrition supports the restoration of the gut barrier and microbiome as well as protects against infectious complications and acute graft‐vs‐host disease. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) may also be beneficial for gastric decompression and drug administration.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study to evaluate the impact of PEG on treatment outcomes in 75 children who underwent aHSCT with (n = 34) or without (n = 41) PEG from 2005 to 2016.

Results

In 34 patients, PEG was used to ensure enteral nutrition support (n = 30), oral drug intake (n = 28), and abdominal decompression (n = 2). During the study period, we observed a beneficial association between PEG placement and transplant‐related mortality as well as 5‐year overall survival compared with the non‐PEG group (12.9% vs 59.0%, P = 0.000; 85.3% vs 35.1%, P = 0.000, respectively). The beneficial impact of PEG was most prominent on 5‐year overall survival in older children (12–17 years) with grafts from matched unrelated donors.

Conclusions

PEG placement had a positive association with transplant outcomes in pediatric patients undergoing aHSCT. To confirm these results, larger prospective studies are needed.
Extraction, identification, and starch‐digestion inhibition of phenolics from Euryale ferox seed coat
Authors: Zhang Li , Zeng Jiacheng , Yuan En , Chen Jiguang , Zhang Qingfeng , Wang Zongde , Yin Zhongping
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Euryale ferox is an important cash crop and valuable tonic in traditional medicine. The seeds of E. ferox are rich in starch, which is hard to digest, and the digestion speed is significantly slower than that of rice starch. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of E. ferox seed‐coat phenolics (EFCPs) on the digestion of E. ferox seed starch.

RESULTS

EFCPs were extracted and identified by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. We optimized the extraction parameters, and the final extraction yield was about 1.49%. We identified seven phenolics from the E. ferox seed‐coat extracts: gallic acid, digalloylhexoside, catechin, procyanidin B2, epicatechin, ellagic acid, and epicatechin gallate. Quantitative analysis results showed that the E. ferox seed phenolics mainly distributed in the seed coat and the gallic acid, digalloylhexoside, and epicatechin gallate were three main phenolic compounds. The phenolics displayed strong inhibitory activities on α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase with an IC50 of 3.25 μg mL−1 and 1.36 mg mL−1 respectively. Furthermore, these phenolics could interact with starch by hydrogen bonds, which might make its starch more difficult to digest.

CONCLUSION

Our investigation suggests that the EFCPs can strongly inhibit the digestion of E. ferox seed starch by inhibiting the α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase activities and interacting with starch by hydrogen bonds; therefore, E. ferox seeds have a promising application prospect in foods for hypoglycemia. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Direct chiral separation of abscisic acid by high‐performance liquid chromatography with a phenyl column and a mobile phase containing γ‐cyclodextrin
Authors: Terashima Hiroyuki , Mutoh Yui , Aizawa Sen‐ichi , Taga Atsushi , Mikami Ikko , Itabashi Yutaka , Tsutsumiuchi Kaname , Yamamoto Atsushi , Kodama Shuji
Published: January 2023

Abscisic acid (2‐cis,4‐trans‐abscisic acid) is a plant hormone that has an asymmetric carbon atom. We tried to separate the enantiomers of native abscisic acid by HPLC using a phenyl column and a chiral mobile phase containing γ‐cyclodextrin. The optimum mobile phase conditions were found to be 0.8% (w/v) γ‐cyclodextrin, 4% (v/v) acetonitrile, and 20 mM phosphate buffer (pH 6.0). It was found that (R)‐abscisic acid was earlier detected than (S)‐abscisic acid. Since γ‐cyclodextrin is hardly retained on a phenyl column, it was suggested that (R)‐abscisic acid formed a more stable complex with γ‐cyclodextrin than the (S)‐abscisic acid. Abscisic acid in an acacia honey sample was successfully enantioseparated with the proposed method and only (S)‐abscisic acid was detected. A biologically inactive 2‐trans,4‐trans‐abscisic acid, which was prepared by irradiation of abscisic acid with a light‐emitting diode lamp at 365 nm, was partially enantioseparated by the proposed method. Since the irradiation of (S)‐abscisic acid‐induced cis‐to‐trans isomerization to produce one 2‐trans,4‐trans‐abscisic acid enantiomer, it is reasonable that racemization did not proceed during the cis‐to‐trans isomerization. (S)‐Abscisic acid and probably (S)‐2‐trans,4‐trans‐abscisic acid were detected in a honey sample, where the peak area of (S)‐abscisic acid was 7 times larger than that of (S)‐2‐trans,4‐trans‐abscisic acid.
Primary amide‐functionalized cyclotricatechylene covalent organic frameworks membrane for efficient enrichment of melamine and its derivatives in migration solution of food contact materials
Authors: Lin Jiana , Ouyang Xiaoyan , Hu Yuling , Li Gongke , Zhong Qisheng
Published: January 2023

A highly chemically stable primary amide‐functionalized cyclotricatechylene covalent organic framework was synthesized by an irreversible reaction and a post‐synthetic modification. It possessed a rod‐like morphology and exhibited strong solvent stability owing to the polyether bonds. The material showed good adsorption performance for melamine and its derivatives and adsorption mechanism was investigated by molecular simulations. The adsorbent was coated on the nylon‐66 membrane to prepare the enrichment membrane. Under optimized conditions, an in‐syringe membrane‐based extraction method, combined with ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry was developed for the analysis of melamine and six melamine derivatives in the migration solution. A good linearity was obtained with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.9924 to 0.9995. The limits of detection were 1–200 ng/L and the limits of quantification were 3–500 ng/L. This method was successfully applied to the migration solution of sushi bamboo rolling mats with spiked recoveries of 73.2%–115% and relative standard deviations of 0.9%–9.9%. This work shows a practical and perspective approach for the efficient enrichment of food contact material hazards.
The Incidence of Diaphragmatic Dysfunction in Patients Presenting With Dyspnea in the Emergency Department
Authors: Puchongmart Chanokporn , Nakornchai Tanyaporn , Leethotsarat Kewalin , Monsomboon Apichaya , Prapruetkit Nattakarn , Ruangsomboon Onlak , Riyapan Sattha , Surabenjawong Usapan , Chakorn Tipa
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Diaphragmatic dysfunction has been reported as a cause of dyspnea, and its diagnosis can be made using ultrasound. Diaphragmatic ultrasound is mainly used to predict respiratory failure in chronic conditions. The use of diaphragmatic ultrasound has also risen in acute settings, such as emergency departments (EDs). However, the number of studies on its use still needs to be increased. The present study aimed to find the incidence of diaphragmatic dysfunction in the ED.

Methods

This prospective cohort study was conducted in an ED. We enrolled patients aged greater than 18 years who presented with dyspnea. Diaphragmatic excursion and diaphragmatic thickness techniques were performed. The primary outcome was the incidence of diaphragmatic dysfunction. The secondary outcomes were the associations between diaphragmatic dysfunction and the composition of respiratory therapies within 24 hours, intubation within 24 hours, and 7‐day mortality.

Results

A total of 237 patients were analyzed. The incidences of diaphragmatic dysfunction assessed by diaphragmatic excursion and diaphragm thickness were 22.4 and 32.1%, respectively. Patients with sepsis and cancer had the highest incidences. Diaphragmatic dysfunction assessed by both techniques was not associated with the composition of respiratory support therapies within 24 hours, intubation within 24 hours, or 7‐day mortality.

Conclusions

The incidence of diaphragmatic dysfunction in dyspneic patients in the ED ranged from 22.4 to 32.1%, depending on the ultrasound technique. Diaphragmatic dysfunction was not associated with the composition of respiratory support therapies, intubation, or mortality.
Performance investment decision and pricing strategy for platforms considering two‐sided users' different preferences
Authors: Zhang Zhuoning , Hua Zhongsheng
Published: January 2023

This paper examines a hybrid strategy of pricing control and performance investment for two‐sided platforms. While many studies have investigated performance improvement in two‐sided markets, few studies have noticed that users may have different investment preferences. We build a strategic model to explore how platforms can make a trade‐off between investing in high performance to satisfy customer preferences versus reducing investment to facilitate service provider participation. We provide insights on the optimum investment strategy and the corresponding charging or subsidizing controls and demonstrate how ignoring the opposite preferences can lead to errors in investing in platform performance.
Cross‐Cultural Differences in Patient Perceptions of Dyskinesia in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Kaasinen Valtteri , Luo Sheng , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Goetz Christopher G. , Stebbins Glenn T.
Published: January 2023

Background

The prevalence of levodopa‐induced dyskinesia (LID) in Parkinson's disease (PD) varies among geographical regions. Cultural differences in patient‐based perceptions of LID have not been studied.

Objective

We compared patient and clinician evaluations of LID severity across multiple cultures in patients with PD.

Methods

The data set included the Unified Dyskinesia Rating (UDysRS) scores from 16 language translation programs (3566 patients). We defined the Perception Severity Index (PSI) as the ratio between normalized patient‐based subjective ratings (UDysRS Part 1B) and normalized clinician examination (Parts 3 and 4) scores (Part 1B/Parts 3 + 4) and compared the PSI across languages.

Results

The mean PSI for the Chinese language (2.16) was higher than those of all other languages, whereas the ratio for the Korean language (0.73) was lower than those for Japanese, German, Turkish, Greek, Polish, and Finnish languages (corrected P values <0.05).

Conclusions

Culture, as represented by language, affects the subjective perception of LID and needs to be considered in multinational clinical PD trials on dyskinesia. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.