bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization and effect of B4C/Al2O3 with graphite particulates on tribological properties of Al7075 surface hybrid nanocomposite
Authors: Gobikannan S , Gopalakannan S , Balasubramanian P
Published: July 2022

Aluminium alloy surface hybrid nanocomposite, reinforced with boron carbide (B4C), aluminium oxide (Al2O3), and Graphite (Gr) at different combination mixtures by weight ratio have been fabricated on Al7075-T6 aluminium plate by employing friction stir processing (FSP). The mixtures of definite proportions were packed in an array of blind holes 2.5 mm in diameter and 3 mm deep which are 6 mm apart from each other. FSP was done with processing factors of 750 rpm revolving speed, 20 mm min−1 feed, and tool angle of 3°. The prepared hybrid composites were sectioned for microstructure, macrostructure, wear, and hardness evaluation. In the metal matrix surface composite, the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) depict the homogeneity in the distribution of reinforcement elements, microstructure, and wear behaviour. Under dry sliding conditions, the nanocomposite’s wear behaviour was investigated by adopting a central composite design (CCD) at 3 levels in response surface methodology (RSM) for optimization. The wear characteristics are analyzed using pin on disc apparatus. The wear property of the nanocomposites with distinct reinforcement ratios was evaluated. Higher hardness values (maximum of 191 Hv) were found in hybrid nanocomposite samples than in the plain FSPed samples (149Hv) without reinforcement. It is evident, that the wear loss depends on the relative weight ratio of B4C and Al2O3 with a constant amount of graphite and the minimum wear loss of 2.9421 mm3 is obtained from composite with 30 B4C + 60 Al2O3+10 Gr reinforcement ratio than the wear loss of 8.2292 mm3 obtained from plain FSPed composite. The optimal combination of parameters, Al2O3 60%, load 20 N, and velocity 1 m s−1 was identified from RSM. The hybrid nanocomposite having a reinforcement mixture of 30 B4C + 60 Al2O3 + 10 Gr exhibits a significant wear resistance than other combination ratios. This is endorsed by the enhancement in binding strength of the matrix and the pinning effect of hard reinforcements, which act against the applied shear force.
Ortho-atomic projector assisted DFT+U study of room temperature Ferro- and antiferromagnetic Mn-doped TiO2 diluted magnetic semiconductor
Authors: Begna Wondimagegnehu Beshah , Gurmesa Gamachis Sakata , Geffe Chernet Amente
Published: July 2022

Using ortho-atomic Hubbard-corrected density functional theory, we present magnetic properties, ferromagnetic transition temperature T
c
, Neel temperature T
N
, electronic structure, structural formation energy, and crystal structure of anatase (Ti16−x
Mn
x
O32 for x = 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6). According to the calculated formation energy, an oxygen-rich condition is more structurally stable than a Ti-rich situation. The geometric and lattice parameter optimization result indicates that Mn2+ exists in the system. In addition, when Mn is substituted in the system, some of the bonds that connect oxygen with the Mn ion are broken, and the bond lengths show variation; this results in defects, which cause the formation of oxygen vacancies that enhance both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic properties of the system. According to the structure of electronic bands and PDOS analysis, 2p and 3d hybridization lead to a decrease in the edge of the CB and an increase in the edge of the VB, narrowing the bandgap from 3.23 eV to 2.21 eV(for 4.17% of Mn), 2.13 eV (for 8.33% of Mn) and 1.69 eV (for 12.5% of Mn). Results also showed that both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic properties are energetically favored. Furthermore, the material exhibits antiferromagnetic with predicted T
N
to be 804.13 K for a small concentration of Mn dopant (for 4.17% of Mn), which is higher than room temperature. In contrast, the calculated ferromagnetic temperature (T
c
) was increased from 255.42 K (for 8.33% of Mn) to 385.63 K (for 12.5% of Mn), most likely as a cause of bound magnetic polarons (BMPs) production. Result also reveals oxygen vacancy for the relaxed pristine (Ti16O31) a non-zero magnetic moment and a total magnetization of 2.00 μ

B
which is observed as a result of an ortho-atomic projector. The present findings suggest that TiO2 could be tailored through doping and oxygen vacancy for versatile spintronic applications, inconsistent with previous experimental results.
Endless forms most beautiful 2.0: teleonomy and the bioengineering of chimaeric and synthetic organisms
Authors: Clawson Wesley P , Levin Michael
Published: July 2022

The rich variety of biological forms and behaviours results from one evolutionary history on Earth, via frozen accidents and selection in specific environments. This ubiquitous baggage in natural, familiar model species obscures the plasticity and swarm intelligence of cellular collectives. Significant gaps exist in our understanding of the origin of anatomical novelty, of the relationship between genome and form, and of strategies for control of large-scale structure and function in regenerative medicine and bioengineering. Analysis of living forms that have never existed before is necessary to reveal deep design principles of life as it can be. We briefly review existing examples of chimaeras, cyborgs, hybrots and other beings along the spectrum containing evolved and designed systems. To drive experimental progress in multicellular synthetic morphology, we propose teleonomic (goal-seeking, problem-solving) behaviour in diverse problem spaces as a powerful invariant across possible beings regardless of composition or origin. Cybernetic perspectives on chimaeric morphogenesis erase artificial distinctions established by past limitations of technology and imagination. We suggest that a multi-scale competency architecture facilitates evolution of robust problem-solving, living machines. Creation and analysis of novel living forms will be an essential testbed for the emerging field of diverse intelligence, with numerous implications across regenerative medicine, robotics and ethics.
Genetic diversity of the endangered Mongolian saiga antelopeSaiga tatarica mongolica (Artiodactyla: Bovidae) provides insights into conservation
Authors: Rey-Iglesia Alba , Hjort Jeanne , Silva Teresa L , Buuveibaatar Bayarbaatar , Dalannast Munkhnast , Ulziisaikhan Tumendemberel , Chimeddorj Buyanaa , Espregueira-Themudo Gonçalo , Campos Paula F
Published: July 2022

The Saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica) is one of the few megafauna species from the mammoth steppe still living today. Currently, saiga are classified as critically endangered, persisting only in small areas of Central Asian steppe and desert ecosystems. The species is divided into two subspecies: Saiga tatarica mongolica and Saiga tatarica tatarica. In this study, we have for the first time characterized the genetic diversity of the Mongolian saiga (S. t. mongolica) using both mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite markers. We also analysed S. t. tatarica specimens in order to genetically compare both subspecies. The mitochondrial control region was sequenced for a total of 89 individuals: 20 skin, 53 umbilical cord, three placentae and a muscle sample from S. t. mongolica, and a total of 12 hair samples from S. t. tatarica. Additionally, 19 microsatellites developed for saiga antelope were also screened. Our results revealed that the Mongolian saiga presents very low genetic diversity at the mitochondrial level, with no shared mitochondrial haplotype between the two subspecies. Low genetic diversity is also present at the autosomal level, with most loci having low heterozygosity (Ho/He) and a low number of alleles per locus. Despite the low genetic diversity, we found no separation between the subpopulations in Mongolia, indicating that conservation corridors are actually promoting contact between different herds. Our results validate current conservation efforts and inform the implementation of new measures to increase the viability of the S. t. mongolica subspecies.
The human posterior parietal cortex: effective connectome, and its relation to function
Authors: Rolls Edmund T , Deco Gustavo , Huang Chu-Chung , Feng Jianfeng
Published: July 2022

The effective connectivity between 21 regions in the human posterior parietal cortex, and 360 cortical regions was measured in 171 Human Connectome Project (HCP) participants using the HCP atlas, and complemented with functional connectivity and diffusion tractography. Intraparietal areas LIP, VIP, MIP, and AIP have connectivity from early cortical visual regions, and to visuomotor regions such as the frontal eye fields, consistent with functions in eye saccades and tracking. Five superior parietal area 7 regions receive from similar areas and from the intraparietal areas, but also receive somatosensory inputs and connect with premotor areas including area 6, consistent with functions in performing actions to reach for, grasp, and manipulate objects. In the anterior inferior parietal cortex, PFop, PFt, and PFcm are mainly somatosensory, and PF in addition receives visuo-motor and visual object information, and is implicated in multimodal shape and body image representations. In the posterior inferior parietal cortex, PFm and PGs combine visuo-motor, visual object, and reward input and connect with the hippocampal system. PGi in addition provides a route to motion-related superior temporal sulcus regions involved in social interactions. PGp has connectivity with intraparietal regions involved in coordinate transforms and may be involved in idiothetic update of hippocampal visual scene representations.
Winter Cover Crops Reduce Spring Emergence and Egg Deposition of Overwintering Navel Orangeworm (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Almonds
Authors: Wilson Houston , Daane Kent M , Maccaro Jessica J , Scheibner Reva S , Britt Kadie E , Gaudin Amélie C M
Published: July 2022

Habitat diversification has been shown to positively influence a variety of ecosystem services to agriculture, including biological control of arthropod pests. The impact of increased biodiversity tends to be species specific though, and practices therefore need to be developed on a case-by-case basis for each cropping system. In perennial systems, numerous studies have demonstrated that cover crops can have positive impacts on soil quality and other ecosystem services, such as pollination and pest management. However, few studies have focused on the use of cover crops to enhance pest control in almond orchards, especially winter cover crops. The primary pest of almonds in North America is navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella Walker, which overwinter as larva or pupa on remnant nuts, many of which remain on the orchard soil surface. In the spring, first flight adults subsequently use these remnant nuts as reproductive substrate. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the influence of two distinct winter cover crop mixtures on overwintering mortality and spring egg deposition of A. transitella. Remnant nuts placed into cover crop plots produced fewer adult A. transitella in the spring, suggesting increased overwintering mortality. Additionally, spring egg deposition was reduced on remnant nuts in the cover crops, possibly due to the ground covers interfering with host location and access. In this way, winter cover crops appear to contribute to the reduction of A. transitella populations in the orchard by altering abiotic and physical conditions, although studies to document specific mechanisms are still needed.
Characterizing Fragmentation of Polystyrene Foam Debris by Isopods Oniscus asellus (Isopoda: Oniscidae) and Trachelipus rathkii (Isopoda: Trachelipodidae)
Authors: Helmberger Maxwell S , Grieshop Matthew J
Published: July 2022

Microplastics present a novel and potentially unique threat to soil ecosystems, one whose effects may be mediated by soil organisms themselves. We investigated fragmentation of polystyrene (PS) foam into microplastic particles by two isopods, Oniscus asellus L. and Trachelipus rathkii Brandt, in laboratory arena experiments. First, we examined the temporal dynamics of fragmentation across a time span of 96 h. O. asellus produced more fragments than T. rathkii, and neither species significantly fragmented the PS foam until 48 h had passed. Second, we asked whether O. asellus would still fragment PS foam in the presence of an alternate, more natural substrate like wood. Wood did not significantly affect fragmentation rates, in line with the few other studies examining the effect of alternate food on soil invertebrates’ propensity to consume and/or fragment plastics. Our results provide additional characterization of PS foam fragmentation by isopods and indicate that laboratory experiments involving soil invertebrates and plastic debris can take place over relatively short timespans of four or fewer days, but do not necessarily need to provide alternate food to prove that plastic consumption would still occur in its presence.
Uptake of proven bycatch reduction fishing gear: perceived best practices and the role of affective change readiness
Authors: Jenkins Lekelia D , Eayrs Stephen , Pol Michael V , Thompson Katie R
Published: July 2022

This paper identifies, critiques, and offers suggestions for successful fisheries change initiatives to reduce bycatch. Through analysis of interviews and a workshop with fisheries change agents, we identified six themes. The first theme is that definitions of success varied between change initiatives. The other five themes relate to perceptions of best practices for change initiatives. They are the importance of (1) engaging diverse, motivated stakeholders in the initiative, in addition to fishers, (2) identifying and articulating clear benefits to fishers, (3) communicating with fishers early and throughout the initiative, particularly through face-to-face interactions and videos, (4) demonstrating positive change agent qualities, and (5) executing an appropriate and well-timed project. These best practices are widely recognized but have not consistently yielded widespread change. We hypothesize this is partly due to fisheries change agents being financially constrained, not measuring outcomes, and not having the proper training, such as knowledge of change management and human behaviour theories. We highlight one especially promising theory, change readiness, which includes cognitive and affective change readiness. We discuss the need to develop affective change readiness among fishers, given that change management research shows that emotions play an important role in the uptake of new ideas and changes.
Geographic Structuring and Divergence Time Frame of Monkeypox Virus in the Endemic Region
Authors: Forni Diego , Molteni Cristian , Cagliani Rachele , Sironi Manuela
Published: July 2022

Background

Monkeypox is an emerging zoonosis endemic to Central and West Africa. Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is genetically structured in 2 major clades (clades 1 and 2/3), but its evolution is poorly explored.

Methods

We retrieved MPXV genomes from public repositories and we analyzed geographic patterns using STRUCTURE. Molecular dating was performed using a using a Bayesian approach.

Results

We show that the population transmitted in West Africa (clades 2/3) experienced limited drift. Conversely, clade 1 (transmitted in the Congo Basin) possibly underwent a bottleneck or founder effect. Depending on the model used, we estimated that the 2 clades separated ∼560–860 (highest posterior density: 450–960) years ago, a period characterized by expansions and contractions of rainforest areas, possibly creating the ecological conditions for the MPXV reservoir(s) to migrate. In the Congo Basin, MPXV diversity is characterized by 4 subpopulations that show no geographic structuring. Conversely, clades 2/3 are spatially structured with 2 populations located West and East of the Dahomey Gap.

Conclusions

The distinct histories of the 2 clades may derive from differences in MPXV ecology in West and Central Africa.
Assessing the impact of patient access to clinical notes on clinician EHR documentation
Authors: Holmgren A Jay , Apathy Nate C
Published: July 2022

Recent policy changes have required health care delivery organizations provide patients electronic access to their clinical notes free of charge. There is concern that this could have an unintended consequence of increased electronic health record (EHR) work as clinicians may feel the need to adapt their documentation practices in light of their notes being accessible to patients, potentially exacerbating EHR-induced clinician burnout. Using a national, longitudinal data set consisting of all ambulatory care physicians and advance practice providers using an Epic Systems EHR, we used an interrupted time-series analysis to evaluate the immediate impact of the policy change on clinician note length and time spent documenting in the EHR. We found no evidence of a change in note length or time spent writing notes following the implementation of the policy, suggesting patient access to clinical notes did not increase documentation workload for clinicians.
A typology of social media rituals
Authors: Trillò Tommaso , Hallinan Blake , Shifman Limor
Published: July 2022

Given its massive volume and rapid development of new trends, the universe of user-generated content may seem utterly chaotic. Yet the flow of content is underlined by deep-rooted patterns of communication. In this article, we present the first systematic attempt to identify these patterns using the concept of social media rituals. Understood as typified communicative practices that formalize and express shared values, rituals offer a productive path to categorize popular genres of content and trace the values they convey. Integrating theoretical literature on rituals with empirical studies of social media genres, we develop a typology of 16 rituals that express diverse values, ranging from respect and responsibility to materialism and pleasure. Furthermore, we show that rituals embed different notions of good communication, as reflected in the values of authenticity, persuasion, affiliation, and demonstration. Finally, we discuss how our framework can facilitate comparative investigations of user-generated content and platform values.
Interaction between malnutrition and physical disability in older adults: is there a malnutrition-disability cycle?
Authors: Nishioka Shinta , Wakabayashi Hidetaka
Published: July 2022

Malnutrition and physical disability are urgent issues in super-aging societies and the 2 phenomena are closely linked in older adults. Both conditions have common underlying causes, including physiological changes due to aging and burdens imposed by disease or injury. Accordingly, a concept of the malnutrition-disability cycle was generated and a comprehensive literature search was performed. There was insufficient evidence to prove an interrelationship between malnutrition and physical disabilities, because of the study design and poor quality, among other factors. However, some evidence exists for the interaction between low body mass index and swallowing disorders, and the effects of some malnutrition and disability components. This review provides the rationale for this interaction, the concept of a malnutrition-disability cycle is proposed, and the available evidence is critically appraise.
Focus on the Role of the Abiotic Environment on Interactions Between Plants and Microbes
Authors: Harris Jeanne M. , Bede Jacqueline , Tsuda Kenichi
Published: July 2022

Interactions between plants and microbes are shaped by the physical world that surrounds them. In nature, the abiotic environment is complex, and factors such as nutrient and water availability, humidity, wind, carbon dioxide levels, salt, pollutants, and temperature all affect the growth and physiology of plants and microbes as well as their interactions. Much of our mechanistic understanding of plant-microbe interactions comes from experiments done in carefully controlled conditions. This Focus Issue looks at how aspects of the abiotic environment affect these plant-microbe interactions, and, conversely, how plant-microbe interactions affect host response to abiotic stress.

[Formula: see text] The author(s) have dedicated the work to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 “No Rights Reserved” license by waiving all of his or her rights to the work worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law, 2022.

Additional content is available on the Focus on the Role of the Abiotic Environment on Interactions Between Plants and Microbes.

Complete Genome Sequence of Curtobacterium sp. C1, a Beneficial Endophyte with the Potential for In-Plant Salinity Stress Alleviation

Proteasomal Degradation of JAZ9 by Salt- and Drought-Induced Ring Finger 1 During Pathogen Infection
The Impact of COVID-19 on Universal Newborn Hearing Screening
Authors: Gallus Roberto , Melis Andrea , De Luca Laura Maria , Rizzo Davide , Palmas Sara , Degni Emilia , Piras Antonio , Bussu Francesco
Published: July 2022

Objectives:

To report the direct and indirect impact of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening program of our institution (Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Sassari).

Design:

Monocentric retrospective study whose target population included all the newborns born in or referred to our hospital in 2019 and 2020.

Results:

There is no statistically significant difference in time to retest or loss to follow-up rate between the 2 years considered (2019 to 2020). Referral rate is not higher for newborns born to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 polymerase chain reaction positive mothers.

Conclusions:

In relation to the analyzed variables, coronavirus disease 2019 seems to have a limited impact on our screening program. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 did not behave as an audiological risk factor in our series.
Tibialis anterior tendon transfer using bone anchor for dynamic supination in congenital talipes equinovarus
Authors: Ayub Anouska A.A. , Firth Gregory B. , Green Gemma L. , Bijlsma Paulien , Ramachandran Manoj
Published: July 2022

Tibialis anterior tendon transfer (TATT) is a recognised procedure for the treatment of recurrent congenital talipes equinovarus. The most common technique in use requires three skin incisions and breaching of the plantar tissues, risking pressure areas and damage to neurovascular structures. There have been no studies showing the clinical results of the use of a bone anchor to secure the tendon without drilling through the lateral cuneiform. This study presents the largest series of outcomes for such a procedure. Retrospective case series. Electronic records for all children under 18 undergoing TATT with anchor fixation included. Outcomes recorded were a failure of the tendon transfer and complications. Seventy-seven feet were identified in 61 children with a male-to-female ratio of 2.5:1, the average age at surgery of 5.6 years, and an average follow-up of 4.4 years. There were no cases of pullout of the anchor. Seventy-six cases (98.7%) had no recurrence of dynamic supination on follow-up. No revision surgery was required. Consistently reliable, reproducible and safe fixation of the tibialis anterior tendon in TATT can be achieved using a bone anchor for the treatment of dynamic supination in children with clubfeet following correction using the Ponseti method and is a quick and straightforward alternative method to traditional techniques.
Incidence and Outcomes of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in ICUs: Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Zajic Paul , Hallmann Barbara , Honnef Gabriel , Fellinger Tobias , Metnitz Barbara , Posch Martin , Rief Martin , Zoidl Philipp , Metnitz Philipp G. H.
Published: July 2022

OBJECTIVES:

We aim to describe incidence and outcomes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) efforts and their outcomes in ICUs and their changes over time.

DESIGN:

Retrospective cohort analysis.

SETTING:

Patient data documented in the Austrian Center for Documentation and Quality Assurance in Intensive Care database.

PATIENTS:

Adult patients (age ≥ 18 yr) admitted to Austrian ICUs between 2005 and 2019.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS ANDN MAIN RESULTS:

Information on CPR was deduced from the Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System. End points were overall occurrence rate of CPR in the ICU and CPR for unexpected cardiac arrest after the first day of ICU stay as well as survival to discharge from the ICU and the hospital. Incidence and outcomes of ICU-CPR were compared between 2005 and 2009, 2010 and 2014, and 2015 and 2019 using chi-square test. A total of 525,518 first admissions and readmissions to ICU of 494,555 individual patients were included; of these, 72,585 patients (14.7%) died in hospital. ICU-CPR was performed in 20,668 (3.9%) admissions at least once; first events occurred on the first day of ICU admission in 15,266 cases (73.9%). ICU-CPR was first performed later during ICU stay in 5,402 admissions (1.0%). The incidence of ICU-CPR decreased slightly from 4.4% between 2005 and 2009, 3.9% between 2010 and 2014, and 3.7% between 2015 and 2019 (p < 0.001). A total of 7,078 (34.5%) of 20,499 patients who received ICU-CPR survived until hospital discharge. Survival rates varied slightly over the observation period; 59,164 (12.0%) of all patients died during hospital stay without ever receiving CPR in the ICU.

CONCLUSIONS:

The incidence of ICU-CPR is approximately 40 in 1,000 admissions overall and approximately 10 in 1,000 admissions after the day of ICU admission. Short-term survival is approximately four out of 10 patients who receive ICU-CPR.
Associations between PFAS occurrence and multimorbidity as observed in an electronic health record cohort
Authors: Ward-Caviness Cavin K , Moyer Joshua , Weaver Anne , Devlin Robert , Diaz-Sanchez David
Published: July 2022

Background:

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are associated with health outcomes ranging from cancer to high cholesterol. However, there has been little examination of how PFAS exposure might impact the development of multiple chronic diseases, known as multimorbidity. Here, we associated the presence of one or more PFAS in water systems serving the zip code of residence with chronic disease and multimorbidity.

Methods:

We used data from the unregulated contaminant monitoring rule 3 to estimate exposure to PFAS for a random sample of 10,168 patients from the University of North Carolina Healthcare System. The presence of 16 chronic diseases was determined via. their electronic health records. We used a logistic regression model in a cross-sectional study design to associate the presence of one or more PFAS with multimorbidity. Models were adjusted for age, race, sex, smoking status, socioeconomic status, and 20 county-level confounders.

Results:

There were four PFAS found in water systems that served at least one zip code represented in our patient data: PFOA, PFHpA, PFOS, and PFHxS. Exposure to any PFAS was associated with a odds ratio of 1.25 for multimorbidity (95% confidence interval = 1.09, 1.45). Among the chronic diseases with at least 300 cases, we observed associations with dyslipidemia, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and osteoporosis.

Conclusion:

Exposure to PFAS is associated with a range of chronic diseases as well as multimorbidity. Accounting for the joint impacts of PFAS on multiple chronic conditions may give an increasingly clear picture of the public health impacts of PFAS.
The History of Otology and What We Can Learn from It: Putting Historical Research in Context
Authors: Krishnan Pavan S. , Andresen Nicholas S. , Ward Bryan K.
Published: July 2022

Why study the history of scientific discovery in otology and neurotology? This is an especially important question in our surgical field, where standard mechanisms of medical science such as the randomized controlled trial are not feasible. Here, we discuss the benefits of engaging with the history of science including 1) gaining a fuller understanding of scientific methodology, 2) becoming critically aware of current knowledge and its gaps, 3) aiding diagnostic and therapeutic discovery, and 4) humanizing innovative thinking. Science is a human endeavor, and it is subject to the constraints inherent to humans. Knowledge of history provides a greater perspective of these limitations and can help extend the boundaries of our field.
Challenging treatment for refractory acquired haemophilia A complicated with severe severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 infection
Authors: Cives Tamara Lado , Docampo Marta Fernández , Fernández María Teresa Fernández , Señarís Diana Martínez , Carmona Alejandro Hevilla , Pérez-Rodríguez Almudena , Solano María del Carmen Gómez del Castillo , Fernández María Fernanda López
Published: July 2022

Immunosuppressive treatment and bypassing agents are used to treat acquired haemophilia A (AHA). On the other hand, COVID-19 infection induces a hypercoagulable state. Managing bleeding, risk of thrombosis, bypassing agents, active infection and immunosuppressive treatment can be challenging. A 72-year-old man was diagnosed with acquired hemophilia A. He received steroids, rituximab and recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa). He developed severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Due to thrombotic risk, he received low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and developed an iliopsoas hematoma. Because of the risk of thrombosis, treatment with recombinant porcine FVIII (rpFVIII) was requested. Tocilizumab was administered for treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection and unexpected improvement of FVIII levels was noted. Concluding, rpFVIII treatment was well tolerated and effective, easy to monitor and to administer. Tocilizumab may play a role as immunosuppressive treatment for AHA. The role of LMWH remains to be established in patients with coagulopathies.
Labeling fibrin fibers with beads alter single fibrin fiber lysis, external clot lysis, and produce large fibrin aggregates upon lysis
Authors: Rimi Najnin , Helms Christine Carlisle
Published: July 2022

Fluorescent beads are often used as a tool for visualizing fibrin fibers in single fiber mechanics studies and studies of single fiber lysis. Here we investigate the effect of beads on fibrin fiber lysis and extensibility to enhance understanding of this common research technique. We selected beads of the same diameter as those used in previous studies, as well as, beads of similar size to microparticles in the bloodstream. We used fluorescence microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to quantify changes in fiber lysis, fiber extensibility, and clot structure in the presence and absence of beads. Fibrin clot structure and lysis were altered in the presence of beads. Fibrin clots formed with beads had a higher fiber density, smaller diameter fibers, and smaller pores. The rate of lysis for clots was reduced when beads were present. Lysis studies of bead-labeled individual fibers showed that beads, at concentrations similar to those reported for microparticles in the blood, cause a subset of fibers to resist lysis. In the absence of beads, all fibers lyse. These results demonstrate that beads alter fiber lysis through both a change in fibrin clot structure as well as changes to individual fiber lysis behavior. Additionally, the lysis of clots with beads produced large fibrin aggregates. This data encourages researchers to use careful consideration when labeling fibrin fibers with fluorescent beads and suggests that particles binding fibrin(ogen) in the bloodstream may be an underappreciated mechanism increasing the risk of thrombosis.
Prognostic Analysis of Distal Pancreatectomy for Pancreatic Body and/or Tail Cancer Involving the Portal Vein
Authors: Yamamoto Yusuke , Sugiura Teiichi , Okamura Yukiyasu , Ito Takaaki , Ashida Ryo , Ohgi Katsuhisa , Aramaki Takeshi , Notsu Akifumi , Uesaka Katsuhiko
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To the best of our knowledge, the prognostic impact of distal pancreatectomy (DP) for pancreatic body and/or tail cancer involving portal vein (PV) has not been analyzed.

Methods

A total of 155 patients with pancreatic body and/or tail cancer who were eligible candidates for resection between 2002 and 2017 were analyzed.

Results

Twenty-seven patients had PV contact ≤180°. Fifteen patients underwent preoperative treatment; finally, 132 patients underwent DP, and 21 underwent DP with celiac axis resection. The overall survival (OS) of the PV contact group (n = 27, median survival time [MST], 25.6 months) was worse than the non-PV contact group (n = 128; MST, 58.4 months; P = 0.002); however, it was better than the unresectable group (MST, 14.2 months; P = 0.011). The OS of the PV contact with preoperative chemotherapy group (MST, not available) was comparable to the non-PV contact group and better than the PV contact without preoperative chemotherapy group (MST, 13.4 months; P = 0.017). The multivariate analysis identified PV contact (P = 0.046) as one of the independent prognostic factors of OS.

Conclusions

Pancreatic body and/or tail cancer contact with PV ≤180° should be considered borderline resectable because of poor survival.
Racial/Ethnic Variation in White Matter Hyperintensity Progression in the ACCORDION MIND Study
Authors: Herman Alison L. , de Havenon Adam , Falcone Guido J. , Prabhakaran Shyam , Sheth Kevin N.
Published: July 2022

Background:

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are linked to cognitive decline and stroke. We investigate the impact of race on WMH progression in the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Memory in Diabetes (ACCORDION MIND) trial.

Materials and Methods:

The primary outcome is WMH progression in milliliters, evaluated by fitting linear regression to WMH volume on the month 80 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and including the WMH volume on the baseline MRI. The primary predictor is patient race, with the exclusion of patients defined as “other” race. We also derived predicted probabilities of our outcome for systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels.

Results:

We included 276 patients who completed the baseline and month 80 MRI, of which 207 (75%) were White, 48 (17%) Black, and 21 (8%) Hispanic. During follow-up, the mean number of SBP, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and A1c measurements per patient was 21, 8, and 15. The median (IQR) WMH progression was 1.5 mL (0.5 to 3.9) for Black patients, 1.0 mL (0.4 to 4.0) for Hispanics, and 1.3 mL (0.5 to 2.7) for Whites (Kruskal-Wallis test, P=0.59). In the multivariate regression model, Black, compared with White, patients had significantly more WMH progression (β Coefficient 1.26, 95% confidence interval 0.45 to 2.06, P=0.002). Hispanic, compared with White, patients neither have significantly different WMH progression (P=0.392), nor was there a difference when comparing Hispanic to Black patients (P=0.162). The predicted WMH progression was significantly higher for Black compared with White patients across a mean SBP of 117 to 139 mm Hg.

Conclusions:

Black diabetic patients in Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Memory in Diabetes (ACCORDION MIND) have a higher risk of WMH progression than White patients across a normal range of SBP.
Exploring Gastrostomy Care-Related Information Needs in Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Their Families
Authors: Chu Hyeon Sik , Tak Young Ran
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to explore gastrostomy care-related information needs in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients and their families. This was a quantitative content analysis. Data were collected from a major online patient community in Korea by analyzing posted free texts. A total of 173 posted free texts from January 2010 to July 2020 from the “question and answer” bulletin board were analyzed. Questions were mostly asked by the adult children of patients, and the most frequent question period was “after hospital discharge.” The commonly mentioned topics related to gastrostomy and G-tube complications. Patients with ALS and their families have a high requirement for gastrostomy care and enteral feeding information. These findings indicate that there is a need to support decision-making for gastrostomy in hospitals and to provide information about G-tube care and enteral nutrition after leaving the hospital. This information and coaching/support for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their families currently appears to be obtained mainly through online patient communities. Both hospital and home care nurses could play a greater role in providing this information.
The Effectiveness of a Low-Cost Personalized Educational Program on the Quality of Bowel Cleansing Among Patients Undergoing a Colonoscopy
Authors: Mohammed Ribwar A. , Lafi Samir Y.
Published: July 2022

In relation to endoscopic practices, particularly a colonoscopy, patient education is required to maximize the quality of bowel preparation. Thus, the intention of this study is to examine how personalized patient education prior to a colonoscopy influences the quality of bowel preparation. A quasi-experimental post-test design was employed at the Kurdistan Center for Gastroenterology Hepatology and the Ebin Sina Center in Iraq from December 21, 2019, to September 30, 2020. Of 270 participants, 219 were selected for data analysis. The mean age (SD) of the participants was 41.18 (15.22), with a median of 41 years and a slightly higher percentage (58.4%) of females in comparison with males (41.6%). The bowel preparation quality of the control and intervention groups in the two centers was based on the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale scores and there was a significant difference (p < .001) of M ± SD between the control (5.79 ± 1.123) and experimental (7.52 ± 1.225) groups. Findings suggest a personalized educational program is having a significant impact on increasing the quality of bowel preparation.
Impact of Prophylactic Corticosteroid Use on In-hospital Mortality and Respiratory Failure After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Hirano Yuki , Konishi Takaaki , Kaneko Hidehiro , Itoh Hidetaka , Matsuda Satoru , Kawakubo Hirofumi , Uda Kazuaki , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Daiko Hiroyuki , Itano Osamu , Yasunaga Hideo , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: July 2022

Objective:

To assess the effect of preoperative prophylactic corticosteroid use on short-term outcomes after oncologic esophagectomy.

Background:

Previous studies have shown that prophylactic corticosteroid use may decrease the risk of respiratory failure following esophagectomy by attenuating the perioperative systemic inflammation response. However, its effectiveness has been controversial, and its impact on mortality remains unknown.

Methods:

Data of patients who underwent oncologic esophagectomy between July 2010 and March 2019 were extracted from a Japanese nationwide inpatient database. Stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting, propensity score matching, and instrumental variable analyses were performed to investigate the associations between prophylactic corticosteroid use and short-term outcomes, such as in-hospital mortality and respiratory failure, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results:

Among 35,501 eligible patients, prophylactic corticosteroids were used in 22,620 (63.7%) patients. In-hospital mortality, respiratory failure, and severe respiratory failure occurred in 924 (2.6%), 5440 (15.3%), and 2861 (8.1%) patients, respectively. In stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting analyses, corticosteroids were significantly associated with decreased in-hospital mortality [odds ratio (OR)=0.80; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.69–0.93], respiratory failure (OR=0.84; 95% CI: 0.79–0.90), and severe respiratory failure (OR=0.87; 95% CI: 0.80–0.95). Corticosteroids were also associated with decreased postoperative length of stay and total hospitalization costs. The proportion of anastomotic leakage did not differ with the use of Propensity score matching and instrumental variable analysis demonstrated similar results.

Conclusions:

Prophylactic corticosteroid use in oncologic esophagectomy was associated with lower in-hospital mortality as well as decreased respiratory failure and severe respiratory failure, suggesting a potential benefit for preoperative corticosteroid use in esophagectomy.
The diagnostic accuracy of prehysterectomy curettage in determining tumor type and grade in patients with endometrial cancer
Authors: Mhmed Ali Rihan
Published: July 2022

Objectives:

This study aims to evaluate the reliability of endometrial curettage in determining tumor grade and type in patients of endometrial cancer, and to study correlations between histologic and clinical findings.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2014 and December 2020 at obstetrics and gynecology university hospital. A total of 75 cases of endometrial curettage with total hysterectomy using H&E stains were studied. Inter-rater reliability test was done.

Results:

The most common category in this study was endometrioid carcinoma in the sixth decade with second grade and first stage. Sensitivity was 93%. Positive predictive value was 93%.

Conclusion:

Endometrial curettage is a reliable investigation in evaluating endometrial cancer. Determining tumor grade and type are possible on the initial report of endometrial curettage thus, using it for therapeutic management for patients of endometrial cancer.
Hospital admissions and mortality for acute exacerbations of COPD during the COVID-19 pandemic: a nationwide study in France
Authors: Poucineau Jonas , Delory Tristan , Lapidus Nathanael , Hejblum Gilles , Chouaïd Christos , Cœur Sophie Le , Khlat Myriam
Published: July 2022

Background

A global reduction in hospital admissions for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) was observed during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Large-scale studies covering the entire pandemic period are lacking. We investigated hospitalizations for AECOPD and the associated in-hospital mortality at the national level in France during the first two years of the pandemic.

Methods

We used the French National Hospital Database to analyse the time trends in (1) monthly incidences of hospitalizations for AECOPD, considering intensive care unit (ICU) admission and COVID-19 diagnoses, and (2) the related in-hospital mortality, from January 2016 to November 2021. Pandemic years were compared with the pre-pandemic years using Poisson regressions.

Results

The database included 565,890 hospitalizations for AECOPD during the study period. The median age at admission was 74 years (interquartile range 65–83), and 37% of the stays concerned women. We found: (1) a dramatic and sustainable decline in hospitalizations for AECOPD over the pandemic period (from 8,899 to 6,032 monthly admissions, relative risk (RR) 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65–0.66), and (2) a concomitant increase in in-hospital mortality for AECOPD stays (from 6.2% to 7.6% per month, RR 1.24, 95% CI 1.21-1.27). The proportion of stays yielding ICU admission was similar in the pre-pandemic and pandemic years, 21.5% and 21.3%, respectively. In-hospital mortality increased to a greater extent for stays without ICU admission (RR 1.39, 95% CI 1.35–1.43) than for those with ICU admission (RR 1.09, 95% CI 1.05–1.13). Since January 2020, only 1.5% of stays were associated with a diagnosis of COVID-19, and their mortality rate was nearly 3-times higher than those without COVID-19 (RR 2.66, 95% CI 2.41–2.93).

Conclusion

The decline in admissions for AECOPD during the pandemic could be attributed to a decrease in the incidence of exacerbations for COPD patients and/or to a possible shift from hospital to community care. The rise in in-hospital mortality is partially explained by COVID-19, and could be related to restricted access to ICUs for some patients and/or to greater proportions of severe cases among the patients hospitalized during the pandemic.
Individual Variation in Risky Decisions Is Related to Age and Gender but not to Mental Health Symptoms
Authors: Talwar Anahita , Cormack Francesca , Huys Quentin J. M. , Roiser Jonathan P.
Published: July 2022

Risky decisions involve choosing between options where the outcomes are uncertain. Cognitive tasks such as the CANTAB Cambridge Gamble Task (CGT) have revealed that patients with depression make more conservative decisions, but the mechanisms of choice evaluation underlying such decisions, and how they lead to the observed differences in depression, remain unknown. To test this, we used a computational modelling approach in a broad general-population sample (N = 753) who performed the CANTAB CGT and completed questionnaires assessing symptoms of mental illness, including depression. We fit five different computational models to the data, including two novel ones, and found that a novel model that uses an inverse power function in the loss domain (contrary to standard Prospect Theory accounts), and is influenced by the probabilities but not the magnitudes of different outcomes, captures the characteristics of our dataset very well. Surprisingly, model parameters were not significantly associated with any mental health questionnaire scores, including depression scales; but they were related to demographic variables, particularly age, with stronger associations than typical model-agnostic task measures. This study showcases a new methodology to analyse data from CANTAB CGT, describes a noteworthy null finding with respect to mental health symptoms, and demonstrates the added precision that a computational approach can offer.
SMALL MOLECULE CLPP AGONISTS INDUCE SENESCENCE AND ALTER TRAIL-MEDIATED APOPTOTIC RESPONSE OF TRIPLE-NEGATIVE BREAST CANCER CELLS
Authors: Aponte-Collazo Lucas J. , Fennell Emily M. J. , East Michael P. , Gilbert Thomas S. K. , Graves Paul R. , Ashamalla Hani , Iwanowicz Edwin J. , Greer Yoshimi Endo , Lipkowitz Stanley , Graves Lee M.
Published: July 2022

Imipridones are a novel class of anticancer drugs with promising antiproliferative effects in several cancer cell types, including breast cancer. Recent studies identified the mitochondrial ATP-dependent caseinolytic peptidase P (ClpP) as the target for imipridones and related analogs. Despite these findings, the specific processes by which ClpP activators inhibit cancer cell growth remain poorly understood. Here we report that two structurally distinct ClpP activators, ONC201 and TR-57, promote senescence in SUM159 and MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines. Induction of senescence was measured through β-galactosidase assays and confirmed by the increase of H2A.X phosphorylation, hypophosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein (Rb), upregulation of multiple interleukin mRNAs and other markers. The level of senescence induced by these compounds was equivalent to that observed with the CDK4/6 inhibitor and positive control abemaciclib. To confirm the crucial role of ClpP activation in senescence induction, we generated ClpP null TNBC cell lines using CRISPR interference (CRISPRi). Neither ONC201 nor TR-57 induced senescence in the ClpP null models. Incubation of WT cells with ClpP activators led to a reduction in the levels of apoptosis-related proteins like XIAP, SMAC/DIABLO, Survivin, DR4 and DR5, which correlated with the lack of apoptosis observed in these cells. Interestingly, treatment with TR-57 strongly reduced apoptosis induced by staurosporine but increased sensitivity to tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). To investigate the enhanced effects of TRAIL, we examined the expression of Wee1 in senescent cells and found that both TR-57 and abemaciclib down-regulated Wee1. Addition of a Wee1 inhibitor partially sensitized cells to TRAIL suggesting the importance of Wee1 in this process. In summary, we show that ClpP activators induce senescence in a ClpP-dependent manner and that combined treatment of ClpP activators with TRAIL provides an effective approach to eliminate malignant senescent cells in vitro.

HIGHLIGHTS

Treatment of TNBC cells with ClpP activators induces senescence in vitro

Induction of senescence is ClpP dependent

Activation of ClpP leads to changes in mRNA levels of senescence associated cytokines

Senescent TNBC cells are sensitized to TRAIL mediated apoptosis