bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myoinhibitory peptides in the central complex of the locust Schistocerca gregaria and colocalization with locustatachykinin‐related peptides
Authors: Hensgen Ronja , Dippel Stefan , Hümmert Sophie , Jahn Stefanie , Seyfarth Jutta , Homberg Uwe
Published: June 2022

The central complex in the brain of insects provides a neural network for sensorimotor processing that is essential for spatial navigation and locomotion and plays a role in sleep control. Studies on the neurochemical architecture of the central complex have been performed especially in the fruit fly Drosophila melangoaster and the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria. In several insect species, myoinhibitory peptides (MIPs) are involved in circadian control and sleep‐wake regulation. To identify neurons that might underlie these functions, we investigated the distribution of MIPs in the central complex of the locust. In silico transcript analysis suggests the presence of eight different MIPs in the desert locust. Through immunolabeling, we identified five systems of central‐complex neurons that express MIP‐like peptides. Two systems constitute columnar neurons of the protocerebral bridge and the lower division of the central body, while the other three systems are columnar neurons (two systems) and tangential neurons (one system) of the upper division of the central body. The innervation pattern and cell count of two systems of columnar neurons revealed the existence of 18 instead of 16 columns of the protocerebral bridge. Immunostaining of preparations containing intracellularly stained single cells allowed us to further specify subtypes of labeled columnar neurons. Double‐label experiments showed that three systems of MIP‐immunostained columnar neurons are also locustatachykinin‐immunoreactive. No colocalization was found with serotonin immunostaining. The data provide novel insights into the architecture of the locust central complex and suggest that MIPs play a prominent role within the central‐complex network.
Calcitonin gene‐related peptide: An intra‐articular therapeutic target for TMJ disorders
Authors: Brouxhon Sabine M. , O'Banion M. Kerry , Dickerson Ian M. , Kyrkanides Stephanos
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The goal of this project was to evaluate the role of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) in the development of arthritis.

Methods

Herein, we employed somatic mosaic analysis in two different joints by FIV(CGRP) intra‐articular inoculation in the knees or temporomandibular joints (TMJ) of young adult male C57/BL6 mice. FIV(CGRP) is a feline immunodeficiency virus over‐expressing full‐length CGRP. Joint pathology and function were evaluated at the histopathological and behavioral levels. In addition, CGRP signaling was inhibited by intra‐articular inoculation using FIV(CGRP8‐37), such that the inhibitory peptide CGRP(8‐37) was overexpressed 4 weeks after induction of joint inflammation in the TMJ of IL‐1βXAT transgenic mouse model. The mice were evaluated for behavior and killed for evaluation of knee and TMJ pathology.

Results

Overexpression of CGRP in the joints of wild‐type mice induced the development of joint anomalies, including meniscal hypertrophy and articular pathology, associated with nocifensive behavior. Intriguingly, overexpression of the CGRP(8‐37) inhibitory peptide in the knee and TMJ of IL‐1βXAT transgenic mice with joint inflammation resulted in partial amelioration of the attendant joint pathology.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that CGRP is sufficient and necessary for the development of joint pathology and may serve as an intra‐articular therapeutic target using gene therapy or monoclonal antibody‐based therapies.
A fully integrated soft switched high frequency resonant DC‐DC voltage regulator
Authors: Meshkat Amin , Dehghani Rasoul , Farzanehfard Hosein
Published: June 2022

Fully integrated 750‐MHz resonant voltage regulator is presented. Providing soft switching conditions for the transistors has prevented degradation of the converter efficiency at this high switching frequency. High switching frequency has reduced volume of the passive on‐chip components and thus increased the converter current density. Due to the limitations of the CMOS processes, control and gate drive circuits are designed to increase chip reliability. One of the major challenges of the fully integrated voltage regulators is the on‐chip inductor realization. Based on the mathematical models for inductance and resistance of spiral on‐chip inductor, the geometric dimensions of the employed inductor are optimally designed to have maximum quality factor and minimum chip area. The power switches are optimized to achieve maximum efficiency. All post layout parasitic elements of MOSFETs and metal routings including inductive effects are extracted using 3‐D EM simulation and finite element method for 0.18‐
m standard CMOS technology. Maximum output voltage ripple is 5.2% at maximum load current. Peak efficiency of the proposed on‐chip power supply is 82% when input/output voltage is 1.8 V/1.48 V and load current is 120 mA. Maximum value of the efficiency enhancement factor is 42% for output input/voltage of 1.8 V/0.55 V. Current density of the proposed converter is 574 mA/mm2. In the worst case, the load step causes an overvoltage/undervoltage smaller than 15.56% at the output voltage.
NIS‐Mediated Intramolecular sp3 C−H Oxidation of 2‐Alkyl‐Substituted Benzamides**
Authors: Sun Lei , Cui Jichun , Nie Shaozhen , Xie Lei , Wang Yanlan , Wu Lingang
Published: June 2022

In this work, we describe the N‐iodosuccinimide‐mediated benzyl sp3 C−H oxidation of 2‐alkyl‐substituted benzamide derivatives. This Hofmann‐Löffler‐Freytag (HLF) type reaction involving intramolecular sp3 C−O bond formation differs from the construction of the C−N bond in the classic and modified HLF reactions. This reaction proceeded smoothly via 1,5‐hydrogen atom transfer of N‐centered radicals directly afforded by in situ N−I bond generation, providing iminoisobenzofuran derivatives in moderate to excellent yields with exclusive chemoselectivity.
Advancing research into the social psychology of sexual orientations and gender identities: Current research and future directions
Authors: Salvati Marco , Koc Yasin
Published: June 2022

Over the past decades, LGBTQ+ issues have been at the centre of politics, social movements, and human rights discussions across the world. Consistent with these developments, there is a growing interest in social psychological research into sexual orientation and gender identities. The emerging research not only taps recent societal developments and the effects of these on LGBTQ+ people; but also focuses on very old research questions of stereotypes and prejudice that are still relevant today. In this special issue, we bring together nine papers addressing several of these issues using qualitative, correlational, and experimental methods with sexual majority and minority samples across different cultural contexts. We discuss the current state of the field and how further research could enhance our understanding of LGBTQ+ issues.
Kirigami‐Based Flexible, High‐Performance Piezoelectric/Triboelectric Hybrid Nanogenerator for Mechanical Energy Harvesting and Multifunctional Self‐Powered Sensing
Authors: Peng Yongwei , Li Yongkang , Yu Wei
Published: June 2022

In recent years, nanogenerators (NGs) have drawn widespread attention from the academic circle as a variety of self‐powered components. Herein, a novel, flexible piezoelectric/triboelectric hybrid nanogenerator based on kirigami (K‐HENG) is first proposed to harvest the human motion energy and serve as a self‐powered strain sensor with high sensitivity. The kirigami‐based electrode allows the device to have excellent tensile properties. By optimizing the electrode structure and simplifying the structure of the device, this K‐HENG can stretch to 100% and collect energy under pressing, stretching, and twisting conditions with higher output than that of a piezoelectric or triboelectric nanogenerator individual. With the assistance of a rectifier to process the circuit, the alternate current generated by K‐HENG can be charged into the capacitor, thus powering microelectronics. In addition, ultrahigh sensitivity makes it applicable in human biological sensing. Therefore, the K‐HENG has massive potential for widespread applications in mechanical energy harvesting and multifunctional self‐powered sensing due to cheap affordability, ease of production, and high performance.
Analyzing interactive call, default, and conversion policies for corporate bonds
Authors: Liu Liang‐Chih , Dai Tian‐Shyr , Zhou Lei , Chang Hao‐Han
Published: June 2022

This paper studies the timings of interactive call and conversion decisions made by bond issuers and holders, respectively, due to the presence of different embedded options. We develop a risk‐neutral‐valuation‐based game option model featuring bondholder–stockholder conflicts of interest. The presence of conversion (call) options possessed by the bondholders (issuers) accelerates the call (conversion) decisions. Granting bondholders additional put options further hastens call decisions and hence conversion decisions in response to call accelerations. Our empirical studies are consistent with past call policy research and support our interactive exercise analyses that explain the rationales behind early call and conversion phenomena.
Alpha‐kinase 1 (ALPK1) agonist DF‐006 demonstrates potent efficacy in mouse and primary human hepatocyte (PHH) models of hepatitis B
Authors: Xu Cong , Fan Jieqing , Liu Danyang , Tuerdi Aimaier , Chen Juanjuan , Wei Yuning , Pan Yanfang , Dang Huaixin , Wei Xiong , Yousif Ashraf Siddig , Yogaratnam Jeysen , Zhou Qiong , Lichenstein Henri , Xu Tian
Published: June 2022

Background and Aims:

In the treatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection, stimulation of innate immunity may lead to hepatitis B virus (HBV) cure. Alpha‐kinase 1 (ALPK1) is a pattern recognition receptor (PRR) that activates the NF‐κB pathway and stimulates innate immunity. Here we characterized the preclinical anti‐HBV efficacy of DF‐006, an orally active agonist of ALPK1 currently in clinical development for CHB.

Approach and Results:

In adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐HBV mouse models and primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) infected with HBV, we evaluated the antiviral efficacy of DF‐006. In the mouse models, DF‐006 rapidly reduced serum HBV DNA, hepatitis B surface antigen, and hepatitis B e antigen levels using doses as low as 0.08 μg/kg, 1 μg/kg, and 5 μg/kg, respectively. DF‐006 in combination with the HBV nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, entecavir, further reduced HBV DNA. Antiviral efficacy in mice was associated with an increase in immune cell infiltration and decrease of hepatitis B core antigen, encapsidated pregenomic RNA, and covalently closed circular DNA in liver. At subnanomolar concentrations, DF‐006 also showed anti‐HBV efficacy in PHH with significant reductions of HBV DNA. Following dosing with DF‐006, there was upregulation of NF‐κB‐targeted genes that are involved in innate immunity.

Conclusion:

DF‐006 was efficacious in mouse and PHH models of HBV without any indications of overt toxicity. In mice, DF‐006 localized primarily to the liver where it potently activated innate immunity. The transcriptional response in mouse liver provides insights into mechanisms that mediate anti‐HBV efficacy by DF‐006.
Exploring resting frontal EEG and reflective functioning in maternal substance use
Authors: Ngoh Gwendolyn , Wu Jia , Potenza Marc N. , Mayes Linda C. , Rutherford Helena J. V.
Published: June 2022

Maternal substance use is associated with altered neural activity and poor offspring outcomes, which may be facilitated by suboptimal caregiving in the form of impaired parental reflective functioning (PRF). To investigate these associations, the resting‐state frontal electroencephalography (EEG) power of 48 substance‐using mothers and 37 non‐substance‐using mothers were examined, specifying seven frequency bands: delta, theta, alpha, alpha1, alpha2, beta, and gamma. Substance‐using mothers exhibited enhanced beta and gamma spectral power compared to non‐substance‐using mothers, potentially reflecting higher arousal states in substance‐using mothers. There were no between‐group differences in any component of PRF (i.e., levels of pre‐mentalizing, certainty, and interest and curiosity). Whole‐sample analyses revealed significant positive correlations between pre‐mentalizing and delta spectral power. Taken together, these findings suggest potential neural correlates of maternal substance use and PRF, providing an important next step into examining associations between maternal substance use and poor child outcomes.
Low‐dose rapamycin prevents Ang‐II‐induced toxicity in Leydig cells and testicular dysfunction in hypertensive SHR model
Authors: Kuo Wei‐Wen , Baskaran Rathinasamy , Lin Jing‐Ying , Day Cecilia Hsuan , Lin Yueh‐Min , Ho Tsung‐Jung , Chen Ray‐Jade , Lin Mei‐Yi , Padma Viswanadha Vijaya , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: June 2022

Hypertension is a common chronic cardiovascular disease reported among both men and women. Hypertension in males affects the testis and reproduction function; however, the pathogenesis is poorly understood. Rapamycin has been reported to have a variety of beneficial pharmacological effects; however, high‐doses rapamycin does have side effects such as immunosuppression. The present study investigates whether low‐dose rapamycin can reduce the damage caused by hypertension to the testis of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and further examines molecular mechanism of low‐dose rapamycin in preventing testicular toxicity induced by angiotensin II (Ang II). Low rapamycin dose restores the testicle size, histological alterations, 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β‐HSD) expression, and prevents apoptosis in SHR rats. Ang II downregulates angiotensin‐converting enzyme‐2 (ACE2) expression through AT1R, p‐ERK, and MAS receptor in LC‐540 Leydig cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Low doses of rapamycin effectively upregulate steroidogenic enzymes, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and 3β‐HSD expression in Leydig cells. Rapamycin upregulates ACE2 expression through p‐PKAc and p‐PI3k in Ang II‐treated cells. Further, rapamycin curbs mitochondrial superoxide generation and depleted mitochondrial membrane potential induced by Ang II through activation of Nrf2‐mediated Gpx4 and superoxide dismutase 2 expression. Our results revealed the involvement of ACE2, AT1R, AT2R, PKAc, and oxidative stress in Ang‐II‐induced testicular toxicity, suggesting low‐dose rapamycin could be a potential therapeutic candidate to attenuate testicular toxicity.
PARP‐1 modulates the expression of miR‐223 through histone acetylation to involve in the hydroquinone‐induced carcinogenesis of TK6 cells
Authors: Ling Xiaoxuan , Pan Zhijie , Zhang Haiqiao , Wu Minhua , Gui Zhiming , Yuan Qian , Chen Jialong , Peng Jianming , Liu Zhidong , Tan Qiang , Huang Dongsheng , Xiu Liangchang , Liu Linhua
Published: June 2022

The upstream regulators of microRNAs were rarely reported. Hydroquinone (HQ) is the main metabolite of benzene, one of the important environmental factors contributing to leukemia and lymphoma. In HQ‐induced malignant transformed TK6 (TK6‐HT) cells, the expression of PARP‐1 and miR‐223 were upregulated. When in PARP‐1 silencing TK6‐HT cells, miR‐223 was downregulated and the apoptotic cell number correspondingly increased. In TK6 cells treated with HQ for different terms, the expression of miR‐223 and PARP‐1 were dynamically observed and found to be decreased and increased, respectively. Trichostatin A could increase the expression of miR‐223, then the expression of HDAC1–2 and nuclear factor kappa B were found to be increased, but that of mH2A was decreased. PARP‐1 silencing inhibited the protein expression of H3Ac, mH2A, and H3K27ac. By co‐immunoprecipitation experiment, PARP‐1 and HDAC2 were found to form a regulatory complex. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the upregulation of PARP‐1 mediated activation of acetylation to promote the transcription of miR‐223 possibly via coregulating with HDAC2, an epigenetic regulation mechanism involved in cell malignant transformation resulting from long‐term exposure to HQ, in which course, H3K27ac might be a specific marker for the activation of histone H3, which also gives hints for benzene exposure research.
Advancing access to Medicare‐funded mental health treatment during the opioid epidemic: A counselor advocacy analysis
Authors: Westcott Jordan B. , Fullen Matthew C. , Jordan Justin
Published: June 2022

Although advocacy is a priority for counseling professionals, little is known about counseling advocates’ participation in the legislative advocacy process. Recent legislation to address the opioid crisis allowed counseling advocates to provide public comments to advance counselor inclusion in the Medicare program. A thematic analysis of 548 public comments provided on behalf of the counseling profession yielded four categories: advocacy on behalf of (1) the proposed rule change; (2) broader Medicare inclusion; (3) the proposed rule change with an additional request for broader Medicare reimbursement; and (4) no clear advocacy. Subthemes included increasing access to care, qualifications necessary to provide care, and the urgency of the opioid epidemic, among others. Implications for the counseling profession and counselor advocacy are discussed.
The role of sense of community in improving the health‐related quality of life among Black Americans
Authors: Wippold Guillermo M. , Garcia Kaylyn A. , Frary Sarah Grace
Published: June 2022

Black Americans have the lowest life expectancy and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL; a strong predictor of premature mortality) of any racial/ethnic group in the United States. Low rates of physical activity and engagement in healthy eating are two known contributors to low HRQoL. Black Americans are more likely to live in environments that inhibit engagement in these two contributors. The present study examined sense of community as a buffer against the adverse effects of low physical activity and healthy eating on HRQoL among Black Americans. A sample of 290 Black American adults were recruited for the present study. Results indicate that sense of community buffers against the adverse effects of low physical activity on HRQoL. The results of the present study can be used by health promotion interventionists and policy‐makers to improve HRQoL and reduce premature mortality among Black Americans.
What works? Lessons from a pretrial qualitative study to inform a multi‐component intervention for refugees and asylum seekers: Learning Through Play and EMDR Group Traumatic Episode Protocol
Authors: Kaptan Safa Kemal , Yilmaz Betul , Varese Filippo , Andriopoulou Panoraia , Husain Nusrat
Published: June 2022

Almost half of the trials failed to recruit their targeted sample size of which 89% could be preventable. Successful implementation of mental health trials in a context of forcibly displaced individuals can be even more challenging. Mental health difficulties have the potential to impact parenting skills, which are linked to poor development in children, while parenting interventions can improve parents' mental health and parenting behaviors. However, the evidence on parenting interventions for refugees is limited. A parenting intervention, Learning Through Play Plus Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Group Treatment Protocol, has been designed to address parental mental health. This pretrial qualitative study, conducted with refugees, asylum seekers and professionals, aimed to explore their perceptions of the intervention and to identify barriers and recommendations for better engagement, recruitment, and delivery. Three themes were generated from thematic analysis: the content of the intervention, suggestions for improvement and implementation, and understanding the role of the facilitator. These themes provided insights into the issues that might predict the barriers for delivery of the intervention and offered several changes, including destigmatization strategies to improve engagement.
3D printed controllable microporous scaffolds support embryonic development in vitro
Authors: Guo Jia , Li Yuanyuan , Gao Zili , Lyu Jiawei , Liu Wenli , Duan Yongchao , Zhou Lixun , Gu Qi
Published: June 2022

Little is known about the complex molecular and cellular events occurring during implantation, which represents a critical step for pregnancy. The conventional 2D culture could not support postimplantation embryos' normal development, and 3D conditions shed light into the “black box”. 3D printing technology has been widely used in recapitulating the structure and function of native tissues in vitro. Here, we 3D printed anisotropic microporous scaffolds to culture embryos by manipulating the advancing angle between printed layers, which affected embryo development. The 30° and 60° scaffolds promote embryo development with moderate embryo‐scaffold attachments. T‐positive cells and FOXA2‐positive cells were observed to appear in the posterior region of the embryo and migrated to the anterior region of the embryo on day 7. These findings demonstrate a 3D printed stand that supports embryonic development in vitro and the critical role of 3D architecture for embryo implantation, in which additive manufacturing is a versatile tool.
COVID‐19 outcomes in haematopoietic cell transplant recipients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lim Yeong Jer , Khan Umair , Karpha Indrani , Ross Andrew , Saif Muhammad , Remberger Mats , Kalakonda Nagesh , Pettitt Andrew R. , Floisand Yngvar
Published: June 2022

Up‐to‐date information on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outcomes and risk factors in haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) recipients is required to inform on decisions about cancer treatment and COVID‐19 mitigation strategies. We performed a meta‐analysis to address this knowledge gap. All studies with at least five patients who reported COVID‐19‐related deaths in HCT recipients were included. The primary outcome was COVID‐19‐related death. Secondary outcomes were COVID‐19‐related mechanical ventilation (MV) and intensive care unit (ITU) admission. The cumulative COVID‐19‐related death rate among HCT recipients was 21% (95% confidence interval [CI] 18%–24%), while MV and ITU admission rates were 14% (95% CI 11%–17%) and 18% (95% CI 14%–22%), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed higher death rates in patients who developed COVID‐19 within 12 months of HCT (risk ratio [RR] 1.82, 95% CI 1.09–3.03), within 6 months of receiving immunosuppressant drugs (RR 2.11, 95% CI 1.38–3.20) or in the context of active graft‐versus‐host disease (RR 2.38, 95% CI 1.10–5.16). Our findings support the idea that HCT should remain an integral part of cancer treatment during the COVID‐19 pandemic but also highlight the need to prioritise preventative measures in those patients who are at increased risk of adverse COVID‐19 outcomes.
Convective precipitation over a Mediterranean area: From identification to trend analysis starting from high‐resolution rain gauges data
Authors: Treppiedi Dario , Cipolla Giuseppe , Noto Leonardo Valerio
Published: June 2022

Heavy rainfall events are likely to become more frequent and severe in the next future, under the effects of a changing climate. In this context, the scientific literature is characterized by a relevant number of studies trying to identify the convective component of precipitation, since this kind of phenomena, due to their short duration and high intensity, may lead to an increased risk of flash floods or debris flows and, consequently, human life losses and economic damages. In this study, a separation between the convective and stratiform precipitation, starting from the subhourly precipitation time series recorded over Sicily (Italy), is provided on a monthly scale. Results show that the percentage of convective precipitation increases as the associated intensity increases, following what is generally known about convective events. Moreover, during the summer months, higher percentages of convective rainfall are generally reached for lower values of intensity, since this season favours the occurrence of these phenomena due to high temperature and relative humidity. In addition to the regional analysis, even an at‐site analysis has been carried out, through the definition of a critical intensity threshold to identify the predominant convective component for each rain gauge. This analysis has pointed out that such convective events have occurred mainly in the east part of the island mainly due to the complex orography of this area, which favours the occurrence not only of such phenomena but of flash floods and debris flows as well.
The power of sharing meaningful moments: A Buberian analysis of a counseling intervention
Authors: van de Goor Jacky , Sools Anneke M. , Smits Micole M. , Westerhof Gerben J.
Published: June 2022

“All real living is meeting”. This study presents an empirical study of the way a sense of meaning‐as‐connectedness is brought about in a group counseling intervention in which meaningful moments are shared. Results from a thematic analysis exemplify and at one point extend Buber's philosophy of meeting.
Ice‐sheet deglaciation and Loch Lomond Readvance in the eastern Cairngorms: implications of a Lateglacial sediment record from Glen Builg
Authors: Carter‐Champion Alice , Abrook Ashley M. , Pike Joshua H. , Matthews Ian P. , Palmer Adrian P. , Lowe J. John
Published: June 2022

We present new lithostratigraphic, pollen‐stratigraphic and tephrochronological data obtained from a sediment sequence in a small lake basin in Glen Builg, eastern Cairngorms, with mapping of the surrounding glacial geomorphological features. The collective evidence indicates that basin organic sediment accumulation started during the Windermere Interstadial at ~14.3 ka. The new results reaffirm the conclusions of Clapperton et al. (1975), that any occupation of the eastern Cairngorms by Loch Lomond (‘Younger Dryas’) Stadial glacier ice was spatially restricted. The record also suggests that harsh climatic conditions prevailed throughout the Windermere Interstadial, probably due to the relatively high altitude of the site (~460 m) and its proximity to major Cairngorm peaks. Our new, more comprehensive study provides a robust chronology, and reveals several palaeoenvironmental signals congruent with other recently reported Scottish Highlands records. Key similarities with regional records are: (i) a short climatic reversal corresponding to GI‐1d in the Greenland stratotype sequence; (ii) a two‐phased Loch Lomond Stadial, with a transition around the Vedde Ash, dating to ~12.1 ka; and (iii) a delayed response to Early Holocene climatic warming of ~250 years, before soils were sufficiently stabilised to permit shrub vegetation establishment.
Diagnostic laparoscopy is underutilized in the staging of gastric adenocarcinoma regardless of hospital type: An US safety net collaborative analysis
Authors: Leder Macek Aleeza J. , Wang Annie , Turgeon Michael K. , Lee Rachel M. , Russell Maria C. , Porembka Matthew R. , Alterio Rodrigo , Ju Michelle , Kronenfeld Joshua , Goel Neha , Datta Jashodeep , Maker Ajay V. , Fernandez Manuel , Richter Harry , Berman Russell S. , Correa‐Gallego Camilo , Lee Ann Y.
Published: June 2022

Background

Diagnostic laparoscopy (DL) is a key component of staging for locally advanced gastric adenocarcinoma (GA). We hypothesized that utilization of DL varied between safety net (SNH) and affiliated tertiary referral centers (TRCs).

Methods

Patients diagnosed with primary GA eligible for DL were identified from the US Safety Net Collaborative database (2012–2014). Clinicopathologic factors were analyzed for association with use of DL and findings on DL. Overall survival (OS) was analyzed by Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Among 233 eligible patients, 69 (30%) received DL, of which 24 (35%) were positive for metastatic disease. Forty percent of eligible SNH patients underwent DL compared to 21.5% at TRCs. Lack of insurance was significantly associated with decreased use of DL (OR 0.48, p < 0.01), while African American (OR 6.87, p = 0.02) and Asian race (OR 3.12, p ≤ 0.01), signet ring cells on biopsy (OR 3.14, p < 0.01), and distal tumors (OR 1.62, p < 0.01) were associated with increased use. Median OS of patients with a negative DL was better than those without DL or a positive DL (not reached vs. 32 vs. 12 months, p < 0.005, Figure 1).

Conclusions

Results from DL are a strong predictor of OS in GA; however, the procedure is underutilized. Patients from racial minority groups were more likely to undergo DL, which likely accounts for higher DL rates among SNH patients.
Patterns of disease relapse and posttreatment follow‐up of patients with resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A single‐center analysis
Authors: Gonzales Beatriz A. , Diniz Alessandro L. , Torres Silvio M. , Salvador de Castro Ribeiro Héber , Correia de Farias Igor , Luís de Godoy André , Coimbra Felipe J. F. , Fonseca de Jesus Victor H.
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives

To describe the patterns of disease relapse and follow‐up of patients with resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Additionally, we looked at patients' characteristics at relapse and survival.

Methods

We included patients with potentially resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma diagnosed from 2008 to 2018 who were submitted to resection with clear macroscopic margins and started posttreatment surveillance.

Results

The study population consists of 73 patients. The median interval between imaging studies was 3.2 months during the first 2 years of follow‐up and 5.1 months thereafter. Forty‐eight patients (65.8%) experienced disease relapse. The most frequent single site of relapse was locoregional (N = 21; 43.8%). At relapse, 31 patients (64.6%) were symptomatic and forty‐two patients (87.6%) had Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 or 1. Most patients were able to undergo additional anticancer therapy (N = 41; 85.4%). Patients with asymptomatic relapses experienced longer median postrelapse survival (25.4 vs. 11.3 months; p = 0.015).

Conclusions

A follow‐up protocol that included imaging studies every 3 months in the first 2 years and every 6 months thereafter is able to diagnose disease relapse when patients have adequate performance status and are still able to undergo additional anticancer treatment.
A Nomogram to Predict Nodal Response after Induction Chemotherapy for Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Li Feiran , Hsueh Chiyao , Huang Huiying , Gong Hongli , Tao Lei , Zhou Liang , Zhang Ming
Published: June 2022

Background

For hypopharyngeal carcinoma, metastatic neck nodes with a low response to induction chemotherapy (ICT) should not be managed with concomitant chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), and the prediction of chemosensitivity before ICT could prevent adverse events from occurring during chemotherapy. In this study, we developed a nomogram to predict the regional response to ICT.

Methods

A total of 153 hypopharyngeal carcinoma patients with regional metastasis treated with ICT in our institution from January 2010 to September 2020 were retrospectively studied. According to ICT response evaluated by RECIST 1.1, patients were divided into chemo‐insensitive (PR < 70%/SD/PD) (group 1) and chemosensitive (CR/PR ≥ 70%) (group 2) groups. Patients' clinical, image, and hematologic data before ICT were collected. The nomogram was built based on multivariate analysis and stepwise logistic regression and was evaluated from the aspects of discrimination and calibration.

Results

A nomogram based on five critical predictors, namely, tumor differentiation degree, T classification, metastatic lymph node size, number of lymph node metastases, and cervical nodal necrosis, was developed. The areas under the curve (AUC) values were 0.76 and 0.70 after adjusting the results using bootstrap methods. The calibration curve showed relatively good agreement between the predicted and observed probabilities.

Conclusions

Our nomogram yielded good accuracy in predicting the regional ICT response and will be a useful tool to assist clinicians in decision making.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:849–855, 2023
Clinical impact of p16 positivity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Shimizu Yuri , Murakami Naoya , Mori Taisuke , Takahashi Kana , Kubo Yuko , Yoshimoto Seiichi , Honma Yoshitaka , Nakamura Satoshi , Okamoto Hiroyuki , Iijima Kotaro , Takahashi Ayaka , Kaneda Tomoya , Kashihara Tairo , Inaba Koji , Okuma Kae , Nakayama Yuko , Igaki Hiroshi , Itami Jun
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The clinical characteristics and prognosis of HPV‐related nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) remain controversial. The relationship between p16 status and outcome was retrospectively investigated in the NPC patients.

Materials and Methods

Between May 2009 and May 2019, 81 NPC patients who received definitive radiation therapy, in a hospital in Japan, were identified and the prognosis was investigated. p16, p53, and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) status were assessed. Also, circumferential tumor extent in the nasopharyngeal cavity was assessed on a 5‐point scale.

Results

Nine and 72 patients were p16‐positive and p16‐negative, respectively. Fewer patients were EBV‐encoded RNA in situ hybridization (EBER‐ISH)‐positive in the p16‐positive group than in the p16‐negative group (p < .01). Seventy‐five patients were nonkeratinizing NPCs, and six patients were keratinizing NPCs. There were two p16‐positive patients among the keratinizing NPCs.

The mean circumferential tumor extent scores of 16‐positive and p16‐negative NPCs were 4.2 and 3.2, respectively with a statistically significant difference (p = .02). Two‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) of p16‐positive and p16‐negative patients undergoing chemoradiation therapy were 100% and 69%, respectively (p = .13).

Conclusion

In this study conducted in Japan, p16‐positive NPC patients are minor but not very low, and the proportion of keratinizing NPCs was small. p16‐positive NPCs were seen both in keratinizing and nonkeratinizing NPCs. P16‐positive NPC had a tendency of better PFS than p16‐negative NPC. This better prognosis might be due to the higher radiosensitivity of the p16‐positive cell. Additionally, p16‐positive NPCs seemed to spread more extensively in circumference along the nasopharyngeal mucosa than p16‐negative NPCs.
Reduction of optimal calibration dimension with a new optimal auxiliary vector for calibrated estimators of the distribution function
Authors: Martínez Sergio , Rueda María del Mar , Illescas María Dolores
Published: June 2022

The calibration method has been widely used to incorporate auxiliary information in the estimation of various parameters. Specifically, some authors adapted this method to estimate the distribution function, although their proposal is computationally simple, its efficiency depends on the selection of an auxiliary vector of points. This work deals with the problem of selecting the calibration auxiliary vector that minimizes the asymptotic variance of the calibration estimator of distribution function. The optimal dimension of the optimal auxiliary vector is reduced considerably with respect to previous studies so that with a smaller set of points, the minimum of the asymptotic variance can be reached, which in turn allows to improve the efficiency of the estimates.
Q‐switched Nd:YVO4 laser with TiS2 saturable absorber
Authors: Zhou Yu , Leng Weifeng , Sui Chao , Yang Hui , Li Mingxin
Published: June 2022

In this paper, the liquid‐phase ultrasonic stripping preparation method was used to fabricate a TiS2 saturable absorber (SA). A Q‐switched Nd:YVO4 laser was demonstrated using the TiS2 SA. The modulation depth and saturation power intensity of TiS2 SA were 4.5% and 19.7 MW/cm2, respectively. The maximum output power was 322 mW under 4.5 W with T = 10%, and the corresponding conversion efficiency was 7.16%. The pulse width was 476 ns with a repetition rate of 72.4 kHz, and the corresponding single pulse energy was 4.45 μJ. Thus, TiS2 nanosheet is a suitable SA material for Q‐switched lasers.
Tele‐medicine and improvement of mental health problems in COVID‐19 pandemic: A systematic review
Authors: Hatami Hossein , Deravi Niloofar , Danaei Bardia , Zangiabadian Moein , Shahidi Bonjar Amir Hashem , kheradmand Ali , Nasiri Mohammad Javad
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Tele‐medicine services have been developed in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, which disrupts mental health services. The present study investigates the effectiveness of telephone‐delivered services for psychological disorders in the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

We searched PubMed/Medline, Embase and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials for relevant clinical studies up to February 1, 2022. Following terms were used: “severe acute respiratory syndrome”, “Coronavirus”, “Coronavirus infection”, “SARS‐CoV‐2”, “COVID‐19”, “mental disorder”, “mental health”, “mental health program”, “mental health service”, “psychiatric service”, “telemedicine”, “Telehealth”, “Tele‐health”, “Telecare”, “Mobile health”.

Results

Twelve relevant clinical articles were included in our study. Eight articles were parallel randomized controlled trials (RCTs), two were Quasi‐experimental, and one was a multicenter retrospective cohort study. A total of 1900 adults (18 years old or above that) were included. Online telecommunication methods like online apps and videoconference were the most common interventions. The most prevalent measured outcome was levels of anxiety and depression among participants. Eleven out of 12 articles showed a significant association between telemedicine and mental health improvement.

Conclusions

The included studies in the current systematic review reported the probable efficacy of telemedicine in improving mental health disorders during the COVID‐19 pandemic. But it is not possible to determine the best telecommunication method for each mental disorder in different populations and the preference of patients is still face to face therapy. So RCTs in different populations with previous mental disorders or chronic diseases are required to investigate the further telemedicine's efficacy on managing mental problems.
Metabolism of oxygen via T2 and interleaved velocity encoding: A rapid method to quantify whole‐brain cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen
Authors: Deshpande Rajiv S. , Langham Michael C. , Cheng Cheng‐Chieh , Wehrli Felix W.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) is an important biomarker of brain function. Key physiological parameters required to quantify CMRO2 include blood flow rate in the feeding arteries and venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) in the draining vein. Here, a pulse sequence, metabolism of oxygen via T2 and interleaved velocity encoding (MOTIVE), was developed to measure both parameters simultaneously and enable CMRO2 quantification in a single pass.

Methods

The MOTIVE sequence interleaves a phase‐contrast module between a nonselective saturation and a background‐suppressed T2‐prepared EPI readout (BGS‐EPI) to measure T2 of blood water protons and cerebral blood flow in 20 s or less. The MOTIVE and standalone BGS‐EPI sequences were compared against TRUST (“T2 relaxation under spin tagging”) in the brain in healthy subjects (N = 24). Variants of MOTIVE to enhance resolution or shorten scan time were explored. Intrasession and intersession reproducibility studies were performed.

Results

MOTIVE experiments yielded an average SvO2 of 61 ± 6% in the superior sagittal sinus of the brain and an average cerebral blood flow of 56 ± 10 ml/min/100 g. The bias in SvO2 of MOTIVE and BGS‐EPI to TRUST was +2 ± 4% and +1 ± 3%, respectively. The bias in cerebral blood flow of MOTIVE to Cartesian phase‐contrast reference was +1 ± 6 ml/min/100 g.

Conclusions

The MOTIVE sequence is an advance over existing T2‐based oximetric methods. It does not require a control image and simultaneously measures SvO2 and flow velocity. The measurements agree well with TRUST and reference phase‐contrast sequences. This noninvasive technique enables CMRO2 quantification in under 20 s and is reproducible for in vivo applications.
Physical therapists' perceptions of and satisfaction with delivering telerehabilitation sessions to patients with knee osteoarthritis during the Covid‐19 pandemic: Preliminary study
Authors: Alrushud Asma , Alamam Dalyah , Alharthi Ameerah , Shaheen Afaf , Alotaibi Nada , AlSabhan Rand , Alharbi Shatha , Ali Nour , Mohammed Elaf , Sweeh Joud
Published: June 2022

Objective

This preliminary study was conducted to explore physical therapists' (PT) perceptions of and satisfaction with delivering telerehabilitation sessions to patients with knee osteoarthritis during the Covid‐19 pandemic.

Study design

An exploratory preliminary study using an internet‐based survey followed by focus group sessions.

Methods

A programme of sessions was administered by 12 PTs from the Physical Therapy Department at Prince Sultan Military Medical City. An internet‐based survey containing 17 statements was completed by the PTs.

Results

With regard to telephone‐delivered care, four statements related to patients' privacy, programme convenience, safe patients time and money achieved consensus agreement (≥75% agreed or strongly agreed), there was majority agreement (≥50% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed) with seven of the statements regarding the effectiveness, affordability and safety of the programme, but there was no consensus with regard to the remaining five statements. In addition, most of the participants (84.6%) believed that a telephone consultation should cost 25% or 50% less than a face‐to‐face session.

Conclusion

Despite the lack of physical contact with patients, the PTs agreed that telerehabilitation would offer patients an easy method of being prescribed a therapeutic programme, save time and money, and maintain patient privacy. Further, the PTs reported barriers and suggested adaptations for this method of service delivery.
Reliability and validity of the Arabic version of the biological rhythms interview of assessment in neuropsychiatry
Authors: Murad Odeh S. , Al‐Dassean Khaled A.
Published: June 2022

Background

Disruptions in biological rhythm (BR) are considered a factor in the spread of many chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and depression. It has been shown that imbalance in BR disrupts the body’s physiological timings; therefore, it is essential to have a tool for BR evaluation.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted on a sample of 403 Jordanian participants (200 depressed people and 203 control groups). Classical test theory (CTT) was used to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of BRIAN. We aimed to validate the Arabic version of Biological Rhythms Interview Assessment in Neuropsychiatry (BRIAN) by investigating its internal consistency and validity, assessing its factor structure, and exploring its relationships with depression and sleep disorders.

Results

The internal consistency (α) was 0.91. The concurrent validity was supported by the severity of depression and sleep disorders (r = 0.87, r = 0.83, p < 0.001). The BRIAN’s ability to differentiate between depressed people and the control group supported its discriminant validity (t = 21.2, p = 0.001). With a sensitivity of 75 and a specificity of 95.57, BRIAN revealed good accuracy in distinguishing between depressed and non‐depressed persons at cutoff 44. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) analyses supported its proposed three‐factor solutions.

Conclusions

The results demonstrated that the BRIAN‐A has acceptable validity in detecting BR and could be useful in examining the impact of circadian disturbance on the Arabic population.
Fabrication and mechanical characterization of hybrid composite reinforced with nanoparticles of alumina and zirconia
Authors: Vij Vivek , Agarwal Raj , Garg Mohinder Pal , Khanna Rajesh , Gupta Vishal
Published: June 2022

Metal matrix composites are rapidly gaining high attention in the automobile and aerospace industry due to their high performance, lightweight, and great mechanical strength. In this present study, metal matrix composite reinforced with nanoparticles is fabricated using the stir‐casting technique. The matrix of the aluminum is reinforced with the nanoparticles of alumina and zirconia in the weight percentage of 6.6% and 3.3%, respectively. For microscopic and mechanical characterization, different specimens were prepared following the standard of fabrication. The microstructural, elemental composition, and distribution along with the interaction of the reinforcement particles with the aluminum matrix are observed using energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The mechanical properties of fabricated nanocomposite are compared with that of the monolithic aluminum metal. The microhardness of the specimen is investigated using a Vickers hardness testing machine. The tensile strength and flexural strength are evaluated using the universal testing machine. It was observed that the reinforcement particles were uniformly and homogeneously distributed in the aluminum matrix. It was witnessed that the mechanical strength was significantly improved during the tensile strength (54.32%) and hardness (114.28%) of the nanocomposite compared to the pure rolled aluminum. However, the flexural strength is reduced by 3.33% with the addition of the reinforcement particles.
A review on elastic graphene aerogels: Design, preparation, and applications
Authors: Xia Yuxing , Gao Chao , Gao Weiwei
Published: June 2022

Graphene aerogels with unique properties, such as ultralow density, super‐elasticity, high specific surface area, and excellent thermal stability, have undergone great progress in the past decades. Especially, super‐elastic graphene aerogels provide a highly attention‐catching platform for developing advanced energy devices, pressure sensors, contaminates adsorbents, and electromagnetic wave shielding and absorption materials, and so forth. In this review, we begin with the introduction and discussion of various fabrication techniques and compare their advantages and disadvantages, focusing on the template‐free assembly process and template‐assisted assembly process. Then, we summarize the factors influencing the compressibility and elasticity of graphene aerogels, including intrinsic properties of building blocks, constituent materials, and structure design, and their wide applications. At the end, we discuss the current challenges and future prospects of this field.
Antisynthetase syndrome with rare EJ‐1 antibodies with antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Chhor Louis , Tu Steven , Fogarty Paul , Fong Christopher
Published: June 2022

We describe the first case of antisynthetase syndrome (ASS) with antibodies to anti‐glycyl tRNA synthetase (EJ‐1) with antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS). A 66‐year‐old man presented with progressive dyspnoea, fever, dry cough and proximal muscle weakness over several months on a background of cryptogenic organizing pneumonia. Examination revealed bibasal fine chest crackles, proximal muscle weakness of the upper and lower limbs, digital skin thickening and facial telangiectasias. Creatine kinase was elevated and autoimmune screening was positive for anti‐EJ‐1, anti‐beta‐2‐glycoprotein, anti‐Ro and anti‐La antibodies. Computed tomography of the chest revealed a usual interstitial pneumonia pattern and a ventilation–perfusion scan demonstrated scintigraphic evidence of bilateral pulmonary emboli. A diagnosis of ASS and APLS was made. Immunosuppressive therapy including pulsed methylprednisolone, rituximab and mycophenolate was commenced with improvement in symptoms. This case highlights the importance of evaluation for ASS in idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, and APLS in ASS patients.