bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heat transfer coefficient simulation and temperature distribution prediction of wire loops in the Stelmor air‐cooling system
Authors: Zhao Qianlong , Su Fuyong , Li Bin , Li Cunwang , Fan Guangyan
Published: April 2024

During the Stelmor air‐cooling process, the temperature distribution has a significant impact on the wire loops' final mechanical properties. The temperature distribution during the air‐cooling process is accurately solved by establishing three‐dimensional model and numerical simulations. The heat transfer coefficient at the highly dense region is much smaller than that of wire loops at the low dense region, and changes periodically over time, according to a computational fluid dynamics simulation method. It is also found that the heat transfer coefficient on the cross‐section of the wire loop is very different, with a difference of 70–100 W/m2 K. Finally, the finite difference method is used to calculate the mathematical model of the temperature distribution during the Stelmor air‐cooling process. Comparing the results with the measurement data, the simulation results and measurement data match up well.
Imaging and video of late preterm delivery by midline laparotomy due to incarcerated uterus: A case report and literature review of a rare but morbid condition
Authors: Taylor A. K. L. , Bartels H. C. , Brophy D. P. , O'Brien D. , Corcoran S. M.
Published: April 2024

Incarcerated gravid uterus (IGU) is a rare and serious obstetric complication. IGU is defined as the entrapment of the gravid uterus between the pubic symphysis and the sacral promontory. The incidence of IGU is 1 in 3000–10 000 cases. IGU is associated with significant obstetric complications, including preterm labor, intrauterine fetal death, growth restriction, renal failure, uterine ischemia/rupture and thrombosis. Here, we present the case of a primigravida with urinary retention at 14 weeks. On transabdominal ultrasound at 19+5/7 weeks the cervix was difficult to visualize, and the anterior uterine wall appeared thickened. The bladder was elongated superior to the uterus and the placenta was low‐lying. Initially the patient was managed with intermittent self‐catheterization, and subsequently indwelling catheterization was required from 22 weeks. At 30 weeks, the patient was transferred to a tertiary center and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was preformed due to challenging visualization of the cervix on ultrasound and the patient's continued symptoms of constipation and recurrent urinary infections. The MRI found a retroflexed gravid uterus, with vagina and endocervix displaced anteriorly and compressed by the gravid uterus. The findings were consistent with an incarcerated uterus. The patient subsequently had positive urinary cultures for Pseudomonas and rising creatinine. Given the obstructive uropathy and associated morbidity and mortality, a plan for elective pre‐term delivery at 33+6/7 weeks was made. Delivery was by midline laparotomy, normal anatomy was restored after manual evacuation of the fundus from below the sacral promontory, and an uncomplicated lower segment transverse uterine cesarean section was performed.
Molecular pathway of pancreatic cancer‐associated neuropathic pain
Authors: Giri Shweta Subhash , Tripathi Alok Shiomurti , Erkekoğlu Pınar , Zaki Magdi E. A.
Published: April 2024

The pancreas is a heterocrine gland that has both exocrine and endocrine parts. Most pancreatic cancer begins in the cells that line the ducts of the pancreas and is called pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PDAC is the most encountered pancreatic cancer type. One of the most important characteristic features of PDAC is neuropathy which is primarily due to perineural invasion (PNI). PNI develops tumor microenvironment which includes overexpression of fibroblasts cells, macrophages, as well as angiogenesis which can be responsible for neuropathy pain. In tumor microenvironment inactive fibroblasts are converted into an active form that is cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Neurotrophins they also increase the level of Substance P, calcitonin gene‐related peptide which is also involved in pain. Matrix metalloproteases are the zinc‐associated proteases enzymes which activates proinflammatory interleukin‐1β into its activated form and are responsible for release and activation of Substance P which is responsible for neuropathic pain by transmitting pain signal via dorsal root ganglion. All the molecules and their role in being responsible for neuropathic pain are described below.
Effect of sirolimus on muscle in inclusion body myositis observed with magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy
Authors: Reyngoudt Harmen , Baudin Pierre‐Yves , Caldas de Almeida Araújo Ericky , Bachasson Damien , Boisserie Jean‐Marc , Mariampillai Kubéraka , Annoussamy Mélanie , Allenbach Yves , Hogrel Jean‐Yves , Carlier Pierre G. , Marty Benjamin , Benveniste Olivier
Published: April 2024

Background

Finding sensitive clinical outcome measures has become crucial in natural history studies and therapeutic trials of neuromuscular disorders. Here, we focus on 1‐year longitudinal data from quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P MRS) in a placebo‐controlled study of sirolimus for inclusion body myositis (IBM), also examining their links to functional, strength, and clinical parameters in lower limb muscles.

Methods

Quantitative MRI and 31P MRS data were collected at 3 T from a single site, involving 44 patients (22 on placebo, 22 on sirolimus) at baseline and year‐1, and 21 healthy controls. Assessments included fat fraction (FF), contractile cross‐sectional area (cCSA), and water T2 in global leg and thigh segments, muscle groups, individual muscles, as well as 31P MRS indices in quadriceps or triceps surae. Analyses covered patient‐control comparisons, annual change assessments via standard t‐tests and linear mixed models, calculation of standardized response means (SRM), and exploration of correlations between MRI, 31P MRS, functional, strength, and clinical parameters.

Results

The quadriceps and gastrocnemius medialis muscles had the highest FF values, displaying notable heterogeneity and asymmetry, particularly in the quadriceps. In the placebo group, the median 1‐year FF increase in the quadriceps was 3.2% (P < 0.001), whereas in the sirolimus group, it was 0.7% (P = 0.033). Both groups experienced a significant decrease in cCSA in the quadriceps after 1 year (P < 0.001), with median changes of 12.6% for the placebo group and 5.5% for the sirolimus group. Differences in FF and cCSA changes between the two groups were significant (P < 0.001). SRM values for FF and cCSA were 1.3 and 1.4 in the placebo group and 0.5 and 0.8 in the sirolimus group, respectively. Water T2 values were highest in the quadriceps muscles of both groups, significantly exceeding control values in both groups (P < 0.001) and were higher in the placebo group than in the sirolimus group. After treatment, water T2 increased significantly only in the sirolimus group's quadriceps (P < 0.01). Multiple 31P MRS indices were abnormal in patients compared to controls and remained unchanged after treatment. Significant correlations were identified between baseline water T2 and FF at baseline and the change in FF (P < 0.001). Additionally, significant correlations were observed between FF, cCSA, water T2, and functional and strength outcome measures.

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated that quantitative MRI/31P MRS can discern measurable differences between placebo and sirolimus‐treated IBM patients, offering promise for future therapeutic trials in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies such as IBM.
Prognostic impact of muscle mass loss in elderly patients with oesophageal cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy
Authors: Jang Jeong Yun , Oh Dongryul , Noh Jae Myoung , Sun Jong‐Mu , Kim Hong Kwan , Shim Young Mog
Published: April 2024

Background

We aimed to identify the impact of muscle mass on locally advanced oesophageal cancer (LAEC) in elderly patients receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (NACRT).

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 345 patients diagnosed with LAEC who underwent NACRT and surgery. Physical variables, including height, weight, skeletal muscle mass, and laboratory values, were obtained before and after NACRT. Body mass index (BMI, kg/m2), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) were calculated as height/(weight)2, ANC/ALC, platelet count/ALC, and (10 × albumin + 0.05 × ALC), respectively. The cutoff for low muscle mass was 43.0 cm2/m2 for BMI below 25 kg/m2 and 53.0 cm2/m2 for BMI 25 kg/m2 or higher. The skeletal muscle index (SMI) was defined as skeletal muscle area/(height)2 (cm2/m2). The ΔSMI (%/50 days) was defined as (SMI after NACRT − SMI before NACRT)/interval (days) × 50 (days) to compare changes over the same period. The excessive muscle loss (EML) group was defined as patients with ΔSMI ≤−10% following NACRT. An elderly patient was defined as aged ≥65 years. The primary outcome measure was overall survival (OS).

Results

During a median follow‐up of 32.8 months (range, 2.0–176.2), 192 patients died, with a median OS of 50.2 months. Elderly patients did not show inferior OS (young vs. elderly, 57.7% vs. 54.0% at 3 years, P = 0.247). 71.0% and 87.2% of all patients had low muscle mass before and after NACRT, respectively, which was not associated with OS (P = 0.270 and P = 0.509, respectively). Inflammatory (NLR and PLR) and nutritional index (PNI) values or their changes did not correlate with OS. However, the EML group had worse OS (41.6% vs. 63.2% at 3 years, P < 0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, EML was also a significant prognostic factor for OS. In the subgroup analysis by age, EML was a strong prognostic factor for OS in the elderly group. The 3‐year OS was 36.8% in the EML group and 64.9% in the non‐EML group (P < 0.0001) in elderly patients, and 47.4% and 62.1% (P = 0.063) in the young patients. In multivariate analysis of each subgroup, EML remained prognostic only in the elderly group (P = 0.008).

Conclusions

EML may be strongly associated with a deteriorated OS in elderly patients undergoing NACRT, followed by surgery for LAEC. The strategies for decreasing muscle loss in these patients should be investigated.
Variables influencing students’ course quality evaluation: A cross‐sectional study for a bachelor's degree dental program
Authors: Abuljadayel Jameel , Abed Hassan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This cross‐sectional study aimed to evaluate and predict variables that influence the Students’ Course Evaluation Surveys (SCES) in a bachelor's degree of dental medicine and surgery program.

Materials and methods

Data from the Faculty of Dental Medicine for the academic year 2021–2022 were analyzed including 39 course reports, students' course evaluation surveys, students’ academic performance data, and the program specification. The survey contains 24 statements that evaluate five main domains of the courses, which are course syllabus, staff performance through the course, course learning resources, course execution, and course quality.

Results

Chi‐squared Test revealed no significant association between the total average students’ evaluation score of the course against factors such as student's level, term, main mode of instruction, course category, department, and course director's gender, academic experiences, and nationality. On the other hand, pairwise comparisons revealed that grades from A+ to C were predictors of the total average SCES scores (p ≤ 0.004). Using the Paired Samples T‐Test, the student's evaluation scores for their course were found to be significantly higher for females than males (mean ± SD = 50.56 ± 24.3 vs. 41.00 ± 26.3, p = 0.042). Using Pearson correlations, results showed a significant association of total average students’ course evaluation scores against factors such as average course syllabus, staff performance, course learning resources, course execution, and course quality (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Average course syllabus, staff performance, course learning resources, course execution, and course quality are major predictor variables that influence SCES scores in the examined program. Enhancing these domains will be of great importance to improve the quality of the courses at the dental bachelor level.
Evaluating the impact of an interdisciplinary integrated limb preservation service operating concurrently with a single‐specialty service
Authors: Bazikian Sebouh , Pyun Alyssa J. , Zheng Hanke , Padula William , Khan Tanzim , Ziegler Kenneth , Shin Laura , Magee Gregory A. , Rowe Vincent L. , Armstrong David G.
Published: April 2024

Background

This study examined the efficacy of an interdisciplinary limb preservation service (LPS) in improving surgical outcomes for diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) patients compared to traditional care.

Methods

Data from January 1, 2017 to September 30, 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. An interdisciplinary LPS clinic began on August 1, 2018, coexisting with a preexisting single specialty service. Primary outcomes were major/minor amputation rates and ratios and hospital length of stay. Surgical endpoints pre‐ and post‐LPS launch were compared.

Results

Among 976 procedures for 731 unique DFU patients, most were male (80.4%) and Hispanic (89.3%). Patient demographics were consistent before and after LPS initiation. Major amputation rates decreased by 45.5% (15.4%–8.4%, p = 0.001), with outpatient procedures increasing over 5‐fold (3.3% pre‐LPS to 18.7% post‐LPS, p < 0.001). Hospital stay reduced from 10.1 to 8.5 days post‐LPS (p < 0.001). The major to minor amputation ratio declined from 22.4% to 12.7%.

Conclusions

The interdisciplinary LPS improved patient outcomes, marked by fewer major amputations and reduced hospital stays, suggesting the model's potential for broader application.
Accepting or declining preconception expanded carrier screening: An exploratory study with 407 couples
Authors: Van Tongerloo Ariane J. A. G. , Verdin Hannah , Steyaert Wouter , Coucke Paul J. , Janssens Sandra
Published: April 2024

Rapidly evolving genomic technologies have made genetic expanded carrier screening (ECS) possible for couples considering a pregnancy. The aim of ECS is to identify couples at risk of having a child affected with a severe disorder and to facilitate their reproductive decision‐making process. The ECS test we offer at our center, called BeGECS (Belgian Genetic ECS), consists of 1268 autosomal recessive (AR) and X‐linked pathogenic genes, including severe childhood‐onset disorders. However, thus far data are scarce regarding the actual uptake of preconception ECS in a clinical setting. Therefore, our aim was to describe the characteristics of 407 couples to whom ECS was offered at the Center for Medical Genetics of the University Hospital Ghent (CMGG). In addition, we aimed to identify their reasons for accepting or declining BeGECS. Between October 2019 and January 2023, 407 preconception couples were offered BeGECS and were asked to fill in a questionnaire after their decision. Of the 407 couples participating in the survey, 270 (66%) decided to take the test and 137 (34%) declined. We observed that age, highest education level as well as indication for consultation were statistically different between the group that accepted to take the test and the group that declined (p = 0.037). In particular, age and education level were substantially higher in the group that accepted the test. Major reasons for taking BeGECS include prevention, wishing to obtain all information possible, helping preparing their future reproductive decision and increasing their sense of control by being informed. However, couples that do not chose to take BeGECS stated that too much information would make them anxious, that the result would not change their decision to have children, that they do not want to spend money on something that will not happen and that they do not worry about their family history. These findings show that the majority of preconception couples that were offered ECS, accepted the test.
Medical students' impression of a generalist in Japan: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kinoshita Kai , Kaneko Makoto
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite the increasing global demand, few medical students aspire to become generalists. To address this shortage, we investigated medical students' impressions of generalists in Japan.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used a web‐based questionnaire from a previous study. The participants chose the impression of a generalist from four categories based on the previous report: family physician, hospital family physician, hospitalist, and general internal medicine.

Results

Medical students' impressions were as follows: family physicians (32%), hospitalists (28%), general internal medicine staff (20%), and hospital family physicians (18%). Students considered reasonable working hours, research opportunities, a clinical clerkship in generalist medicine, and information from university faculty as essential for making career choices.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that the number of Japanese medical students who considered generalists to be family physicians/hospital family physicians and the number of those who considered generalists to be hospitalists/general internal medicine were almost equal. To increase the number of medical students who consider and choose to become generalists, understanding their impressions of generalist practice and their needs regarding work settings in that role is crucial.
Hypertriglyceridemia‐induced acute necrotizing pancreatitis: Poor clinical outcomes requiring revisiting management modalities
Authors: Abboud Yazan , Shah Meet , Simmons Benjamin , Mandava Kranthi , Morales John E M , Jaber Fouad , Alsakarneh Saqer , Ismail Mohamed , Hajifathalian Kaveh
Published: April 2024

Hypertriglyceridemia‐induced acute pancreatitis (HTG‐AP) is the third most common cause of AP after gallstones and alcohol. Supportive measures, intravenous insulin, and plasmapheresis are possible treatment modalities for HTG‐AP; however, definitive guidelines evaluating the best therapeutic approach are not clearly established. We present a rare case of a 42‐year‐old male without known comorbidities who was found to have HTG‐AP. Despite early initiation of intravenous insulin and plasmapheresis and the initial decline in his triglycerides level, his condition was complicated by necrotizing pancreatitis and subsequent multi‐organ failure. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the role of plasmapheresis in HTG‐AP and its efficacy.
Intra‐ and Peri‐tumoral Radiomics Based on Dynamic Contrast Enhanced‐MRI to Identify Lymph Node Metastasis and Prognosis in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Pan Yi‐Jun , Wu Sun‐jie , Zeng Yan , Cao Zi‐Rui , Shan Yan , Lin Jiang , Xu Peng‐Ju
Published: April 2024

Background

Lymph node metastasis (LNM) in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) affects treatment strategies and prognosis. However, preoperative imaging is not reliable enough for identifying LNM.

Purpose

To develop and validate a radiomics nomogram based on dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE)‐MR images for identifying LNM and prognosis in iCCA.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Two hundred four patients with pathologically proven iCCA who underwent curative‐intent resection and lymphadenectomy (training cohort: N = 107, internal test cohort: N = 46, and external test cohort: N = 51).

Field Strength/Sequence

T1‐ and T2‐weighted imaging, diffusion‐weighted imaging and DCE imaging at 1.5 T or 3.0 T.

Assessment

Radiomics features were extracted from intra‐ and peri‐tumoral regions on preoperative DCE‐MR images. Imaging features were evaluated by three radiologists, and significant variables in univariable and multivariable regression analysis were included in clinical model. The best‐performing radiomics signature and clinical characteristics (intrahepatic duct dilatation, MRI‐reported LNM) were combined to build a nomogram. Patients were divided into high‐risk and low‐risk groups based on their nomogram scores (cutoff = 0.341). Patients were followed up for 1–102 months (median 12) after surgery, the overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) were calculated.

Statistical Tests

Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration, decision curve, Delong test, Kaplan–Meier curves, log rank test. Two tailed P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The nomogram incorporating intra‐ and peri‐tumoral radiomics features, intrahepatic duct dilatation and MRI‐reported LNM obtained the best discrimination for LNM, with areas under the ROC curves of 0.946, 0.913, and 0.859 in the training, internal, and external test cohorts. In the entire cohort, high‐risk patients had significantly lower RFS and OS than low‐risk patients. High‐risk of LNM was an independent factor of unfavorable OS and RFS.

Data Conclusion

The nomogram integrating intra‐ and peri‐tumoral radiomics signatures has potential to identify LNM and prognosis in iCCA.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Enhancing drug development and clinical studies with patient‐centric sampling using microsampling techniques: Opportunities, challenges, and insights into liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry strategies
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Goudarzi Christopher C. , Sikorski Timothy W. , Weng Naidong
Published: April 2024

Microsampling has revolutionized pharmaceutical drug development and clinical research by reducing sample volume requirements, allowing sample collection at home or nontraditional sites, minimizing animal and patient burden, and enabling more flexible study designs. This perspective paper discusses the transformative impact of microsampling and patient‐centric sampling (PCS) techniques, emphasizing their advantages in drug development and clinical trials. We highlight the integration of liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC–MS) strategies for analyzing PCS samples, focusing on our research experience and a review of current literatures. The paper reviews commercially available PCS devices, their regulatory status, and their application in clinical trials, underscoring the benefits of PCS in expanding patient enrollment diversity and improving study designs. We also address the operational challenges of implementing PCS, including the need for bridging studies to ensure data comparability between traditional and microsampling methods, and the analytical challenges posed by PCS samples. The paper proposes future directions for PCS, including the development of global regulatory standards, technological advancements to enhance user experience, the increased concern of sustainability and patient data privacy, and the integration of PCS with other technologies for improved performance in drug development and clinical studies. By advancing microsampling and PCS techniques, we aim to foster patient‐centric approaches in pharmaceutical sciences, ultimately enhancing patient care and treatment efficacy.
Correlating neighborhood‐level deprivation and pediatric metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Hickman Nicole E. , Price Mason , Crespo Noe C. , Feldstein Ariel E.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The primary objective of this study is to further explore associations between social influencers of health and markers of disease severity at the time of presentation of patients with pediatric metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) using neighborhood‐level Area Deprivation Index (ADI) scores.

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional study was conducted among 344 pediatric MASLD patients. Each patient received an ADI score based on their 9‐digit zip code. Groups were defined as low (≤5) and high (6≥) ADI. Associations between ADI and symptomatology and laboratory values at presentation, as well as initial liver biopsy pathology were tested via analyses of covariance, χ2 testing, and logistic regressions.

Results

The mean ADI was 6.54 (standard deviation = 2.09). ADI groups did not significantly differ in age of presentation, type of presentation, or associated conditions, except for the higher ADI group having on average lower vitamin D levels (26.70 vs. 29.91, p = 0.02) and being two times more likely to also be diagnosed with low high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) levels (p = 0.04, 95% CI 1.04–3.89). Mean transaminases and histopathologic nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) Activity Scores did not significantly differ between ADI groups.

Conclusions

Pediatric patients with MASLD in this study span the entire spectrum of neighborhood deprivation. There were no differences in presentation characteristics or severity of MASLD, aside from lower HDL‐cholesterol and vitamin D values in the high ADI group. Area deprivation was not predictive of more severe disease as assessed by serum transaminases and liver biopsy NAFLD activity scores.
Generalised exanthematous pustular dermatophytids during Trichophyton violaceum tinea capitis
Authors: Kluger Nicolas
Published: April 2024

Dermatophytids are defined as the acute occurrence of noninfectious secondary lesions at distance from a primary dermatophytic infection. They are well‐known after intertrigo of the toes. We report an 8‐year‐old boy, who developed generalised pustular lesions during the treatment of tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton violaceum. He had a rapid response to local corticosteroid ointment, while oral terbinafine was efficient on the scalp condition. Dermatophytids are the result of a type IV delayed hypersensitivity reaction to dermatophytic antigens. They may occur after initiation of an antifungal treatment. Generalised exanthematous pustular dermatophytids is a clinical variant of dermatophytids. They present as nonfollicular, nonconfluent pustules with an erythematous base, of abrupt onset. Main differential diagnoses are acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis and pustular psoriasis. Medical history, clinical presentation, laboratory findings and, if necessary, biopsy will help to distinguish between those conditions. Evolution is rapidly favourable under local or oral corticotherapy and antifungal treatments should not be withdrawn. Dermatophytids are a differential diagnostic of acute generalised pustulosis during tinea capitis.
Blood, Sweat, and Tonsils: Bleeding After Abscess Tonsillectomy for Quinsy‐A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Mughal Zahir , Gupta Keshav Kumar , Yeo Justin Jui Yuan , Metcalfe Christopher , Weller Matthew
Published: April 2024

Objective

Abscess tonsillectomy is performed during an active episode of quinsy. Apprehensions regarding an elevated bleeding risk have hindered its widespread acceptance. This study aims to assess the prevalence of post‐tonsillectomy bleeding (PTB) associated with abscess tonsillectomy.

Data Sources

A search was performed on August 27, 2023 in Medline, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Web of Science databases.

Review Methods

The systematic review was conducted in adherence to the PRISMA guidelines. Pooled PTB rate was determined using a meta‐analysis of proportions. The JBI tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies.

Results

Of the 525 search records, 18 studies met the eligibility criteria for final analysis. These comprised of retrospective single‐center analyses. The pooled prevalence of PTB was 6.65% (95% C.I. 4.01–9.81), and the return‐to‐theatre rate was 2.35% (95% C.I. 1.48–3.37). There was no difference in PTB rate between unilateral and bilateral tonsillectomy. However, the bipolar technique was associated with a higher PTB rate compared to cold steel dissection. The overall quality of the body of evidence was moderate.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the complications associated with abscess tonsillectomy. These findings contribute valuable insights into this potential treatment option for quinsy.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:4186–4195, 2024
Ppomicsdb: A Multi‐Omics Database for Genetic and Molecular Breeding Applications in Pigeonpea
Authors: Singh Nisha , Ujinwal Megha , Singh Nagendra Kumar
Published: April 2024

Cajanus cajan, commonly known as Arhar or tur in India, is a highly treasured plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family. Pigeonpea is a drought‐tolerant legume crop produced in the world's tropics and subtropics areas, rich source of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and minerals. It is considered as “meat for vegetarian people” and addresses malnutrition issues globally. Despite its nutritional and economic importance, the lack of comprehensive knowledge about its genomic resources prevents it from being used wisely through molecular breeding programs and biotechnological intervention. Several genomic repositories on pigeonpea are available; however, there is no cohesive integrated multi‐omics database available for C. cajan. Here, we present a first report on comprehensive pigeonpea omics database, named as Ppomics database (db) available at https://ppomics.multiwebx.com/, which provides up‐to‐date various aspects of multi‐omics information devoted to the catalogs phenomics (both qualitative and quantitative), genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics data. Ppomics db is an integrated multi‐omics platform for discovering important regulators of several qualitative and quantitative traits in pigeonpea, which can be utilized for superior breed development. Ppomics db has been made available to researchers to acquire the related omics information and perform multi‐omics data analysis.
Using oxygen isotopes in phosphate to assess biological phosphorus cycling in a small and shallow freshwater lake system
Authors: Yi Rong , Ishida Takuya , Song Peixue , Ikeya Tohru , Okuda Noboru , Paytan Adina , Ban Syuhei
Published: April 2024

Reducing excess phosphorus (P) loads that cause eutrophication in aquatic systems is essential for meeting water quality standards. The oxygen isotopic composition of phosphate (δ18Op) is a powerful tool for tracking P sources and cycling in diverse natural ecosystems. Here, we use δ18Op distribution in a small freshwater body (a lagoon–lake system) with high biological activity. We report δ18Op values seasonally along the water flow path in lagoon–lake system adjacent to Lake Biwa, Japan. The δ18Op values of inflowing water originating as agricultural runoff were constant throughout the study period at +16.3‰ ± 0.2‰. The δ18Op values in the system were generally offset from temperature‐dependent isotopic equilibrium with the surrounding water, ranging from +11.1‰ to +17.8‰. The δ18Op values of the lake water approached equilibrium values in July and October, when dissolved inorganic P (DIP) retention rates were high, consistent with extensive biologically mediated phosphate cycling. A δ18Op two end‐member mixing model, involving inflowing P and biologically recycled P, suggests that P turnover rates in the lagoon–lake system were high during the productive seasons. In contrast, the longer lake water residence time in the non‐irrigation season (winter) allowed δ18Op values to deviate toward lower values relative to both equilibrium and agricultural source δ18Op values, suggesting that P metabolism was dominated by extracellular/ecto‐enzymatic hydrolysis of dissolved organic P under low DIP concentrations. This work highlighted the utility of δ18Op for understanding P dynamics in shallow lake ecosystems.
Polyphosphate phosphorus in the Great Lakes
Authors: Yang Xingyu , Gao Rixuan , Huff Audrey , Katsev Sergei , Ozersky Ted , Li Jiying
Published: April 2024

Polyphosphate (polyP) is important to phytoplankton ecology, but a unified view of its variability and roles in ecosystem‐scale phosphorus (P) cycling is lacking. We study polyP in the world's largest freshwater ecosystem, the Laurentian Great Lakes, covering pelagic to nearshore areas across a wide nutrient gradient. We show that polyP (average 10.99 ± 3.90 nmol L−1) constitutes 3.8–30.2% (average 18.1 ± 7.2%) of total particulate P (TPP). PolyP accumulation is higher in low‐P pelagic waters compared with more productive nearshore areas. PolyP is preferentially degraded in the water column of the Great Lakes, enhancing P recycling and relieving the nitrogen (N) : P imbalance. Our data enables a coherent large‐scale freshwater‐to‐oceanic comparison. We show that while different plankton groups accumulate different levels of polyP with smaller plankton accumulating more, P availability is the key driver of polyP variability within and across systems.
Bioinspired All‐Polyester Diblock Copolymers Made from Poly(Pentadecalactone) and Poly(3,4‐Ethylene Furanoate): Synthesis and Polymer Film Properties
Authors: Saar Julia S. , Lienkamp Karen
Published: April 2024

Bio‐based, fully degradable aliphatic‐aromatic block copolymers are synthesized from ω‐pentadecalatone and cyclic oligo(3,4‐ethylene furanoate). In the first approach, the ring‐opening polymerization of the cyclic oligo(3,4‐ethylene furanoate) is initiated by a poly(pentadecalactone) macroinitiator with a terminal hydroxy group. The reaction temperatures of the melt polymerization are 210–230 °C due to the high melting points of the oligo(3,4‐ethylene furanoate). Under these conditions, transesterification is observed. The blockiness of the reaction products depends on the reaction temperature and on the ratio of pentadecalactone to 3,4‐ethylene furanoate repeat units, which is 50:50, 80:20, and 90:10. At lower temperatures and more pentadecalactone content, the blockiness is larger. The number average molar mass of the block copolymers remains smaller than 20 000 g mol−1. In the second approach, poly(pentadecalactone) is functionalized with an alkyne group, and the OH group of the oligo(3,4‐ethylene furanoate) (molar mass 1900 g mol−1) is converted into an azide group. Connecting the two polymers in a copper‐catalyzed 1,3‐dipolar addition reaction (“click reaction”) yields block copolymers with a number average molar mass of 12 400 g mol−1. The mechanical properties of the polymer films are intermediate between those of the parent homopolymers.
Powerful Protein Nanoreservoirs Based on Stellate Mesoporous Silica Embedded in Composite Hydrogels: From Burst Release to Retention
Authors: Bizeau Joëlle , Rabineau Morgane , Buisson Julie , Lucante Théo , Leuvrey Cédric , Parkhomenko Ksenia , Lavalle Philippe , Mertz Damien
Published: April 2024

In the biomaterials field, one major issue with hydrogels (HGs) loaded with active therapeutics is the spontaneous leaking of the cargo occurring rapidly, usually over several hours. However, biological processes involved in regenerative medicine would require to have a sustained drug delivery lasting over weeks/months or be triggered only when a specific biochemical stimulus (enzymatic, cellular, or antimicrobial) is applied. In this work, this challenge is addressed by demonstrating that the spontaneous protein release from an agarose HG (used as model HG) can be partially or totally blocked by the incorporation of stellate mesoporous silica (STMS) nanoparticles (NPs, ≈150 ± 28 nm size, 15 nm pore) within the HG. It is shown here that the porous silica NPs act as sub‐micrometer size reservoirs ensuring precise level retention simply by playing on the amount of STMS embedded in the HG. Further, this effect is shown for various proteins demonstrating the versatility of this concept.
Real and In Silico Microgels Show Comparable Bulk Moduli Below and Above the Volume Phase Transition
Authors: Höfken Tom , Gasser Urs , Schneider Stefanie , Petrunin Alexander V. , Scotti Andrea
Published: April 2024

The compressibility of soft colloids influences their phase behavior and flow properties, especially in concentrated suspensions. Particle compressibility, which is proportional to the reciprocal of the bulk modulus K, is a key parameter for soft polymer‐based particles that can be compressed in crowded environments. Here, microgels with different degrees of cross‐linking, i.e., softness, are investigated below and above their volume phase transition temperature (VPTT). By combining molecular dynamics simulations with small‐angle neutron scattering with contrast variation, a change in the particle bulk moduli of two orders of magnitude is observed. The degree of cross‐linking has a significant impact on the bulk modulus of the swollen microgel, while above the VPTT the values of K are almost independent of the cross‐linking density. The excellent agreement between experimental results and simulations also highlight that the model microgels from computer simulations possess both the internal architecture and the elastic properties of real polymeric networks. This paves the way to a systematic use of simulations to investigate the behavior of dense microgel suspensions below and above their VPTT.
Quantitative Structure‐Property Relations for Polyester Materials via Statistical Learning
Authors: McCoy Stephen , Ojedeji Damilola , Abolins Brendan , Brown Cameron , Doxastakis Manolis , Sgouralis Ioannis
Published: April 2024

Statistical learning is employed to present a principled framework for the establishment of quantitative structure‐property relationships (QSPR). Property predictions of industrial polymers formed by multiple reagents and at varying molecular weights are focused. A theoretical description of QSPR as well as a rigorous mathematical method is developed for the assimilation of experimental data. Results show that these methods can perform exceptionally well at establishing QSPR for glass transition temperature and intrinsic viscosity of polyesters.
3D Kinematics Quantifies Gait Response to Levodopa earlier and to a more Comprehensive Extent than the MDS‐Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale in Patients with Motor Complications
Authors: Barbosa Raquel , Mendonça Marcelo , Bastos Paulo , Pita Lobo Patrícia , Valadas Anabela , Correia Guedes Leonor , Ferreira Joaquim J. , Rosa Mário Miguel , Matias Ricardo , Coelho Miguel
Published: April 2024

Background

Quantitative 3D movement analysis using inertial measurement units (IMUs) allows for a more detailed characterization of motor patterns than clinical assessment alone. It is essential to discriminate between gait features that are responsive or unresponsive to current therapies to better understand the underlying pathophysiological basis and identify potential therapeutic strategies.

Objectives

This study aims to characterize the responsiveness and temporal evolution of different gait subcomponents in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients in their OFF and various ON states following levodopa administration, utilizing both wearable sensors and the gold‐standard MDS‐UPDRS motor part III.

Methods

Seventeen PD patients were assessed while wearing a full‐body set of 15 IMUs in their OFF state and at 20‐minute intervals following the administration of a supra‐threshold levodopa dose. Gait was reconstructed using a biomechanical model of the human body to quantify how each feature was modulated. Comparisons with non‐PD control subjects were conducted in parallel.

Results

Significant motor changes were observed in both the upper and lower limbs according to the MDS‐UPDRS III, 40 minutes after levodopa intake. IMU‐assisted 3D kinematics detected significant motor alterations as early as 20 minutes after levodopa administration, particularly in upper limbs metrics. Although all “pace‐domain” gait features showed significant improvement in the Best‐ON state, most rhythmicity, asymmetry, and variability features did not.

Conclusion

IMUs are capable of detecting motor alterations earlier and in a more comprehensive manner than the MDS‐UPDRS III. The upper limbs respond more rapidly to levodopa, possibly reflecting distinct thresholds to levodopa across striatal regions.
Manufacturer encroachment under distributional fairness concerns
Authors: Luo Yuanyuan , Sun Xiaojie
Published: April 2024

Dominant retailers' squeeze results in very low profits for manufacturers in the traditional reselling channel, which raises manufacturers' significant concerns about profit fairness. This paper studies the manufacturer's encroachment strategy under fairness concerns by virtue of a game‐theoretical model, in which a manufacturer sells its products to a dominant retailer who resells them to consumers in the traditional reselling channel. Besides, the manufacturer can sell its products through a direct channel, i.e., manufacturer encroachment. The equilibrium solutions and profits under different scenarios are derived to check the interplay between fairness concerns and manufacturer encroachment. Some interesting results are obtained. First, fairness concerns can reduce the motivation of the manufacturer to encroach the market. Second, manufacturer encroachment always harms the retailer in the absence of fairness concerns, while it can benefit the retailer in the presence of fairness concerns. Third, the manufacturer's profit always decreases with the direct selling cost in the case without fairness concerns, while it may increase in the case with fairness concerns. These results obtained are robust when the decision timing or fairness concerns model is changed.
GPNMB Biomarker Levels in GBA1 Carriers with Lewy Body Disorders
Authors: Brody Eliza M. , Seo Yunji , Suh EunRan , Amari Noor , Hartstone Whitney G. , Skrinak R. Tyler , Zhang Hanwen , Diaz‐Ortiz Maria E. , Weintraub Daniel , Tropea Thomas F. , Van Deerlin Vivianna M. , Chen‐Plotkin Alice S.
Published: April 2024

Background

The GPNMB single‐nucleotide polymorphism rs199347 and GBA1 variants both associate with Lewy body disorder (LBD) risk. GPNMB encodes glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB), a biomarker for GBA1‐associated Gaucher's disease.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine whether GPNMB levels (1) differ in LBD with and without GBA1 variants and (2) associate with rs199347 genotype.

Methods

We quantified GPNMB levels in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from 124 individuals with LBD with one GBA1 variant (121 plasma, 14 CSF), 631 individuals with LBD without GBA1 variants (626 plasma, 41 CSF), 9 neurologically normal individuals with one GBA1 variant (plasma), and 2 individuals with two GBA1 variants (plasma). We tested for associations between GPNMB levels and rs199347 or GBA1 status.

Results

GPNMB levels associate with rs199347 genotype in plasma (P = 0.022) and CSF (P = 0.007), but not with GBA1 status.

Conclusions

rs199347 is a protein quantitative trait locus for GPNMB. GPNMB levels are unaltered in individuals carrying one GBA1 variant. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Galectin‐8 inhibition and functions in immune response and tumor biology
Authors: Purić Edvin , Nilsson Ulf J. , Anderluh Marko
Published: April 2024

Galectins are among organisms' most abundantly expressed lectins (carbohydrate‐binding proteins) that specifically bind β‐galactosides. They act not only outside the cell, where they bind to extracellular matrix glycans, but also inside the cell, where they have a significant impact on signaling pathways. Galectin‐8 is a galectin family protein encoded by the LGALS8 gene. Its role is evident in both T‐ and B‐cell immunity and in the innate immune response, where it acts directly on dendritic cells and induces some pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Galectin‐8 also plays an important role in the defense against bacterial and viral infections. It is known to promote antibacterial autophagy by recognizing and binding glycans present on the vacuolar membrane, thus acting as a danger receptor. The most important role of galectin‐8 is the regulation of cancer growth, metastasis, tumor progression, and tumor cell survival. Importantly, the expression of galectins is typically higher in tumor tissues than in noncancerous tissues. In this review article, we focus on galectin‐8 and its function in immune response, microbial infections, and cancer. Given all of these functions of galectin‐8, we emphasize the importance of developing new and selective galectin‐8 inhibitors and report the current status of their development.
Genotype and phenotype in patients with ACAN gene variants: Three cases and literature review
Authors: Tang Wei , Wu Ke‐Mi , Zhou Qiong , Tang Yan‐Fei , Fu Jun‐Fen , Dong Guan‐Ping , Zou Chao‐Chun
Published: April 2024

Objective

To characterize the phenotype spectrum, diagnosis, and response to growth‐promoting therapy in patients with ACAN variants causing familial short stature.

Methods

Three families with ACAN variants causing short stature were reported. Similar cases in the literature were summarized, and the genotype and phenotype were analyzed.

Results

Three novel heterozygous variants, c.757+1G>A, (splicing), c.6229delG, p.(Asp2078Tfs*1), and c.6679C>T, p.(Gln2227*) in the ACAN gene were identified. A total of 314 individuals with heterozygous variants from 105 families and 8 individuals with homozygous variants from 4 families were confirmed to have ACAN variants from literature and our 3 cases. Including our 3 cases, the variants reported comprised 33 frameshift, 39 missense, 23 nonsense, 5 splicing, 4 deletion, and 1 translocation variants. Variation points are scattered throughout the gene, while exons 12, 15, and 10 were most common (25/105, 11/105, and 10/105, respectively). Some identical variants existing in different families could be hot variants, c.532A>T, p.(Asn178Tyr), c.1411C>T, p.(Gln471*), c.1608C>A, p.(Tyr536*), c.2026+1G>A, (splicing), and c.7276G>T, p.(Glu2426*). Short stature, early‐onset osteoarthritis, brachydactyly, midfacial hypoplasia, and early growth cessation were the common phenotypic features. The 48 children who received rhGH (and GnRHa) treatment had a significant height improvement compared with before (−2.18 ± 1.06 SD vs. −2.69 ± 0.95 SD, p < 0.001). The heights of children who received rhGH (and GnRHa) treatment were significantly improved compared with those of untreated adults (−2.20 ± 1.10 SD vs. −3.24 ± 1.14 SD, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study achieves a new understanding of the phenotypic spectrum, diagnosis, and management of individuals with ACAN variants. No clear genotype–phenotype relationship of patients with ACAN variants was found. Gene sequencing is necessary to diagnose ACAN variants that cause short stature. In general, appropriate rhGH and/or GnRHa therapy can improve the adult height of affected pediatric patients caused by ACAN variants.
Nebraska providers brace as funds are removed from state budget
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: April 2024

Mental health organizations in Nebraska look to be among the entities in the state that will feel the pinch from an effort to retrieve unspent funds in the state budget. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen this month signed a budget adjustments bill that removes $15 million in state behavioral health aid.
Psychedelic therapists, pharma collaborate on clinical trial
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2024

A New York‐based organization, considered a global leader in professional education and training for psychedelic therapy research, is collaborating with a biotechnology company to develop an FDA‐approved botanical psilocybin pharmaceutical candidate to support an upcoming randomized clinical trial.
Normalized frequency for noncircular dielectric waveguides
Authors: Teh Chin Hui , Kumar Deepak , Thiagarajah Siva Priya
Published: April 2024

This paper points out that the commonly used normalized frequency for noncircular dielectric waveguides, which is based on the semiminor axis, causes the cross‐sectional area to vary with the cross‐sectional shape. Consequently, the shape effects described with the conventional normalized frequency are not due to the shape alone but the combined effects of the shape and area. Our numerical results show that the area effect is greater than the shape effect. An improved definition of normalized frequency based on an equivalent radius is proposed in this paper. Conversion formulas to convert from the conventional normalized frequency to the proposed normalized frequency are provided for elliptical and rectangular waveguides. Our numerical results show that the shape effects described by the proposed normalized frequency are free from the area effect. Consequently, the proposed normalized frequency is more accurate than the conventional normalized frequency in describing the shape effect of noncircular dielectric waveguides.