bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic potential of pregnenolone and pregnenolone methyl ether on depressive and CDKL5 deficiency disorders: Focus on microtubule targeting
Authors: Barbiero Isabella , Bianchi Massimiliano , Kilstrup‐Nielsen Charlotte
Published: August 2021

Pregnenolone methyl‐ether (PME) is a synthetic derivative of the endogenous neuroactive steroid pregnenolone (PREG), which is an important modulator of several brain functions. In addition to being the precursor of steroids, PREG acts directly on various targets including microtubules (MTs), the functioning of which is fundamental for the development and homeostasis of nervous system. The coordination of MT dynamics is supported by a plethora of MT‐associated proteins (MAPs) and by a specific MT code that is defined by the post‐translational modifications of tubulin. Defects associated with MAPs or tubulin post‐translational modifications are linked to different neurological pathologies including mood and neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review, we describe the beneficial effect of PME in major depressive disorders (MDDs) and in CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), two pathologies that are joint by defective MT dynamics. Growing evidence indeed suggests that PME, as well as PREG, is able to positively affect the MT‐binding of MAP2 and the plus‐end tracking protein CLIP170 that are both found to be deregulated in the above mentioned pathologies. Furthermore, PME influences the state of MT acetylation, the deregulation of which is often associated with neurological abnormalities including MDDs. By contrast to PREG, PME is not metabolised into other downstream molecules with specific biological properties, an aspect that makes this compound more suitable for therapeutic strategies. Thus, through the analysis of MDDs and CDD, this work focuses attention on the possible use of PME for neuronal pathologies associated with MT defects.
Regional variation in lateral and medial gastrocnemius muscle fibre lengths obtained from diffusion tensor imaging
Authors: Aeles Jeroen , Bolsterlee Bart , Kelp Nicole Y. , Dick Taylor J. M. , Hug François
Published: August 2021

Assessment of regional muscle architecture is primarily done through the study of animals, human cadavers, or using b‐mode ultrasound imaging. However, there remain several limitations to how well such measurements represent in vivo human whole muscle architecture. In this study, we developed an approach using diffusion tensor imaging and magnetic resonance imaging to quantify muscle fibre lengths in different muscle regions along a muscle's length and width. We first tested the between‐day reliability of regional measurements of fibre lengths in the medial (MG) and lateral gastrocnemius (LG) and found good reliability for these measurements (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.79 and ICC = 0.84, respectively). We then applied this approach to a group of 32 participants including males (n = 18), females (n = 14), young (24 ± 4 years) and older (70 ± 2 years) adults. We assessed the differences in regional muscle fibre lengths between different muscle regions and between individuals. Additionally, we compared regional muscle fibre lengths between sexes, age groups, and muscles. We found substantial variability in fibre lengths between different regions within the same muscle and between the MG and the LG across individuals. At the group level, we found no difference in mean muscle fibre length between males and females, nor between young and older adults, or between the MG and the LG. The high variability in muscle fibre lengths between different regions within the same muscle, possibly expands the functional versatility of the muscle for different task requirements. The high variability between individuals supports the use of subject‐specific measurements of muscle fibre lengths when evaluating muscle function.
Relationship between rosacea and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Demirbaş Abdullah , Yümer Yusuf , Elmas Ömer Faruk , Ulutaş Demirbaş Gözde , Atasoy Mustafa , Türsen Ümit , Dursun Recep , Lotti Torello
Published: August 2021

Background

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that has been reported to be associated with many systemic disorders including respiratory diseases.

Aims

This study aims to investigate respiratory function in patients with rosacea.

Patients/Methods

Patients with rosacea and age‐ and gender‐matched healthy volunteers were included in this cross‐sectional study. Spirometric pulmonary function tests including the percentage of forced vital capacity (FVC%), percentage of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV 1%), forced expiratory flow at 25–75% of FVC (FEF 25–75%), and FEV 1/FVC ratio was assessed in both patient and controls. The potential relationship between rosacea severity and pulmonary functions was assessed.

Results

A total of 120 patients with rosacea and 120 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Compared to the controls, FEV 1%, FEV 1/FVC%, and FEF 25–75% values were significantly lower in patients with rosacea. Lower FEV 1/FVC% values were found to be associated with disease severity. FEV 1%, FEV 1/FVC%, and FEF 25–75% values were found to be more useful in differentiating the patients from healthy subjects.

Conclusions

This study showed that patients with rosacea may have abnormal respiratory function compared to healthy subjects. Besides, disease severity was associated with worse respiratory functions. We believe that patients with rosacea, particularly those with additional risk factors, should be screened for respiratory disorders.
Radical hysterectomy versus simple hysterectomy and brachytherapy for stage II endometrial cancer
Authors: Wang Ming , Ran Ran , Wu Yumei
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To compare the survival outcome between radical hysterectomy and simple hysterectomy with radiation therapy in patients with stage II endometrial cancer.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study based on the SEER database from January 1, 1988 to December 31, 2015.

Results

Of 577 patients were enrolled in the study, 117 patients received radical hysterectomy and 460 patients received simple hysterectomy combined with vaginal brachytherapy. All patients received external beam radiation therapy after the surgery. The median follow‐up duration was 82.77 ± 1.44 months. No differences were found on the baseline information between two groups. Both the 5‐year overall survival (62.31% vs. 78.48%, p < 0.001) and 5‐year cause‐specific survival (74.60 vs. 85.38%, p = 0.01) were shorter in radical hysterectomy than in simple hysterectomy combined with vaginal brachytherapy group. However, the positive outcomes were further validated in patients with high‐risk endometrial cancer, not in patients with grade 1–2 low‐risk endometrial cancer both on cause‐specific survival and overall survival. In patients with grade 3 low‐risk endometrial cancer, the tendency was only found with lower overall survival not cause‐specific survival.

Conclusions

This study revealed that in patients' high‐risk stage II endometrial cancer, radical hysterectomy was associated with shorter survival outcome than simple hysterectomy combined with vaginal brachytherapy.
Does preoperative resting genital hiatus size predict surgical outcomes?
Authors: Schmidt Payton , Cox Caroline K. , DeLancey John O. , Suresh Shriya , Horner Whitney , Chen Luyun , Swenson Carolyn W.
Published: August 2021

Aim

To determine whether preoperative genital hiatus at rest is predictive of medium‐term prolapse recurrence.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of women who underwent native tissue prolapse surgery from 2002 to 2017 with pelvic organ prolapse quantification data including resting genital hiatus at one of three time points: preoperatively, 6 weeks, and ≥1 year postoperatively. Demographics and clinical data were abstracted from the chart. Prolapse recurrence was defined by anatomic outcomes (Ba > 0, Bp > 0, and/or C ≥ −4) or retreatment. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

Of the 165 women included, 36 (21.8%) had prolapse recurrence at an average of 1.5 years after surgery. Preoperative resting genital hiatus did not differ between women with surgical success versus recurrence (3.5 cm [interquartile range, IQR 2.25, 4.0) vs 3.5 cm (IQR 3.0, 4.0), p = 0.71). Point Bp was greater in the recurrence group at every time point. Preoperative Bp (odds ratio [OR] 1.24, confidence interval [CI] [1.06–1.45], p = 0.01) and days from surgery (OR 1.001, CI [1.000–1.001], p < 0.01) were independently associated with recurrence. Preoperative genital hiatus at rest and strain were significantly larger among women who underwent a colpoperineorrhaphy (rest: 4.0 [3.0, 4.5] cm vs 3.5 [3.0, 4.0] cm, p < 0.01; strain: 6.0 [4.0, 6.5] cm vs 5.0 [4.0, 6.0] cm, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Preoperative genital hiatus at rest was not associated with prolapse recurrence when the majority of women underwent colpoperineorrhaphy. Preoperative Bp was more predictive of short‐term prolapse recurrence. For every 1 cm increase in point Bp, there is a 24% increased odds of recurrence.
The relationship between Scoville Units and the suprathreshold intensity of sweeteners and Sichuan pepper oleoresins
Authors: Zheng Ying‐Ming , Gao Hai‐Yan , Wang Hou‐Yin , Zhu Bao‐qing , Shi Bo‐Lin , Zhong Kui , Sun Pei , Zhang Lu‐Lu , Zhao Lei
Published: August 2021

Sweetness and pungency sensation are two of common flavors in snack foods and cuisines, and appropriate intake regulates physical and mental health. In this study, 20 panelists were used as the subjects; the rated difference from control method was used to determine the recognition threshold of five kinds of Sichuan pepper oleoresins and sweeteners, while the Taste Activity Value (TAV), Scoville Units (SU), and relative intensity (RI) of different stimuli were obtained using formula conversion. Meanwhile, generalized labeled magnitude scale (gLMS) was used to rate the suprathreshold intensity of the stimuli at five different concentrations. The results showed that the power exponents of the pungent stimuli were between 0.5801 and 0.8081, while the power exponents of the sweet stimuli were between 0.4709 and 0.9020. Moreover, the RI of five different Sichuan pepper oleoresins and sweeteners were calculated based on the power functions. Furthermore, the fitting models for pungency and sweetness were lnRI = 0.8580*lnSPU‐8.5528 (R2 = .5964, p < .01) and lnRI = 0.8230*lnSSU‐4.1574 (R2 = .8998, p < .01), respectively.

Practical Applications

The relative intensity (RI) and the Scoville Unit (SU) methods are typically used to evaluate the intensity of sweetness and pungency, respectively. However, previous studies confirmed that the SU of the stimuli was poorly correlated with its suprathreshold intensity. Furthermore, differences in psychophysical parameters, such as sensory quality and time persistence, limited the determination of the sweetener RI. Therefore, studying the relationship between the SU and RI of sweeteners and Sichuan pepper oleoresins would be useful for predicting suprathreshold intensity according to the SU of sweetness or pungent stimuli, providing a mutual reference for the RI and SU results, while promoting the sensory quality control of sweet and pungent foods.
Infection rate treating radial and ulnar fractures using bone plate fixation without antibiotic prophylaxis
Authors: Schmökel H. , Skytte D. , Barsch M.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness and complication rate of a 1.5‐ and 2.0‐mm titanium locking plate for the treatment of radial and ulnar fractures in small dog breeds and cats without peri‐operative antibiotic prophylaxis in a prospective case series.

Materials and Methods

Medical records and radiographs of closed radial and ulnar fractures treated using internal fixation with a 1.5‐ or 2.0‐mm titanium locking plate without antibiotic prophylaxis were collected prospectively. Patients were clinically followed up until radiographical fracture healing was complete.

Results

Thirty‐two fractures in small breed dogs and cats with an average bodyweight of 3.9 kg met the inclusion criteria. The follow‐up time radiographically and clinically was 4–35 weeks. All fractures showed radiographical fracture union, and all patients had a good clinical outcome. The superficial infection rate in this case series was 0%; the deep infection rate involving the implant/bone was 3.1%.

Clinical Significance

The novel 1.5‐ and 2.0‐mm titanium locking plate system was successfully used to treat simple closed radial and ulnar fractures in small breed dogs and cats without peri‐operative antibiotic prophylaxis, resulting in good clinical outcome and a low infection rate.
Clinical characteristics, magnetic resonance imaging features, treatment, and outcome for presumed intracranial coccidioidomycosis in 45 dogs (2009‐2019)
Authors: Kelley Ashley J. , Stainback Laura B. , Knowles Kim E. , Moore Trevor W. , Plummer Scott B. , Shoup Olivia R.
Published: August 2021

Background

Knowledge of the clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of intracranialCoccidioidesinfection in dogs is essential for prompt diagnosis to limit disease‐associated morbidity and death.

Objectives

To describe the MRI appearance of intracranial coccidioidomycosis in dogs, identify associated clinical and clinicopathologic findings, and report outcomes of medical treatment.

Animals

Forty‐five client‐owned dogs with presumed intracranialCoccidioidesinfection.

Methods

Retrospective case series. Medical records and images were reviewed. Clinical history, examination findings, serology, imaging characteristics, treatment, and outcome were recorded. Included cases had an abnormal brain MRI and positiveCoccidioidesserology by agar‐gel‐immunodiffusion (AGID).

Results

Median age was 7‐years. Generalized tonic‐clonic seizures were the most common presenting sign (25/45). Two lesion categories were identified: a granulomatous form with 1 or more distinct, intra‐axial, contrast‐enhancing foci (37/45), and a second variation with diffuse, bilateral, symmetrical lesions of the caudate nuclei and frontal lobes (8/45). Serum IgG titers ranged from 1 : 1 to ≥ 1 : 256; 2 dogs had positive IgM titers at 1 : 2. All dogs with follow‐up serology (34/45) had a reduction in titer. Mean duration of follow‐up was 22.4 ± 20.5 months (median 16 months). Six dogs were lost to follow‐up <1‐year after diagnosis (median 9 months). Five dogs were clinically well but had yet to be followed for >1‐year. Of the remaining 34 dogs, 28 (82%) were alive ≥ 1‐year after diagnosis. Thirteen of these dogs had follow‐up times ≥ 2‐years.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The prognosis for intracranialCoccidioidesinfection is generally more favorable with medical treatment than in earlier reports.
Effects of dietary creatine on juvenile hybrid striped bass in low‐salinity and brackish waters
Authors: Burns Alton F. , Gatlin Delbert M.
Published: August 2021

A 12‐week, two‐part feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the potential benefits of creatine supplementation in the diet of hybrid striped bass (HSB) under different water salinity and osmoregulatory conditions. A basal diet was formulated to contain 40% crude protein, contributed equally by menhaden fishmeal and soy protein concentrate, and 10% lipid. Three isonitrogenous experimental diets were prepared by supplementing 1, 2, and 4% creatine to the basal diet replacing cellulose and adjusting a 50/50 aspartate/glutamate premix. During the first 7 weeks, salinity of the recirculating system was maintained at 3 g/L (low salinity), then, for an additional 5 weeks, switched to 15 g/L (brackish water). No discernable differences in weight gain, feed efficiency, or survival of HSB were observed during the low‐salinity phase. However, significant improvements in weight gain were exhibited by fish fed diets supplemented with 2 and 4% creatine compared to those fed basal and 1% creatine diets during the brackish water phase. Muscle creatine levels significantly increased with dietary creatine supplementation during both culture phases. The positive effects of dietary creatine supplementation on HSB appeared to be due to increased energetic demands of the brackish water environment.
Biting kinematics do not differ between ecologically divergent populations of Trinidadian guppies
Authors: Cohen H. E. , Kane E. A.
Published: August 2021

Performance, the ability to complete an ecologically relevant task, serves as a link between underlying morphology and the maximum functional capacity and fitness of an individual. Performance can vary within species due to environmental context and the trait of interest, but this is less understood compared with variation across species. Trinidadian guppy (Poecilia reticulata) populations are separated by waterfall barriers that result in repeated selection for predator avoidance in high predation environments and resource competition in low predation environments. An array of locally adapted traits results from these shifts, however, the role of these local adaptations in prey capture performance traits remains unclear. We examined biting kinematics in replicate populations of adult female guppies collected from natural high and low predation habitats. We expected that competition in low predation populations would drive performance differences compared with fish from high predation populations. Using high‐speed videos of fish feeding on an agar substrate, we did not find support for differences in jaw or approach kinematics between populations, suggesting a lack of local adaptation in our sample. To gain further insight, we examined four representative, whole‐body morphometric traits previously shown to be divergent in guppies. Again, differences were not discovered in our sample, which may indicate limitations in the use of shape traits. We suggest that female guppies are kinematic generalists and that selection on prey capture may act on traits other than performance, such as feeding behaviors (e.g., consumption rates, kinematic integration, and prey preference).
Guideline for in vivo assessment of adherent and rolling leukocytes in human skin microvasculature via reflectance confocal videomicroscopy
Authors: Zhao Zijun , Patrinely James Randall , Saknite Inga , Byrne Michael , Tkaczyk Eric R.
Published: August 2021

Objective

To develop a guideline that reliably identifies cutaneous adherent and rolling leukocytes from mimicking scenarios via in vivo reflectance confocal videomicroscopy.

Methods

We used a clinical reflectance confocal microscope, the VivaScope 1500, to acquire 1522 videos of the upper dermal microcirculation from 12 healthy subjects and 60 patients after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Blinded to clinical information, two trained raters independently counted the number of adherent and rolling leukocytes in 88 videos. Based on discrepancies in the initial assessments, we developed a guideline to identify both types of leukocyte‐endothelial interactions via a modified Delphi method (without anonymity). To test the guideline's ability to improve the inter‐rater reliability, the two raters assessed the remaining 1434 videos by using the guideline.

Results

We demonstrate a guideline that consists of definitions, a step‐by‐step flowchart, and corresponding visuals of adherent and rolling leukocytes and mimicking scenarios. The guideline improved the inter‐rater reliability of the manual assessment of both interactions. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of adherent leukocyte counts increased from 0.056 (95% confidence interval: 0–0.236, n = 88 videos, N = 10 subjects) to 0.791 (0.770–0.809, n = 1434, N = 67). The ICC of rolling leukocyte counts increased from 0.385 (0.191–0.550, n = 88, N = 10) to 0.626 (0.593–0.657, n = 1434, N = 67). Intra‐rater ICC post‐guideline was 0.953 (0.886–0.981, n = 20, N = 12) and 0.956 (0.894–0.983, n = 20, N = 12) for adherent and rolling, respectively.

Conclusion

The guideline aids in the manual identification of adherent and rolling leukocytes via in vivo reflectance confocal videomicroscopy.
RNA‐binding protein Hfq downregulates locus of enterocyte effacement‐encoded regulators independent of small regulatory RNA in enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli
Authors: Sudo Naoki , Lee Kenichi , Sekine Yasuhiko , Ohnishi Makoto , Iyoda Sunao
Published: August 2021

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) causes severe human diseases worldwide. The type 3 secretion system and effector proteins are essential for EHEC infection, and are encoded by the locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE). RNA‐binding protein Hfq is essential for small regulatory RNA (sRNA)‐mediated regulation at a posttranscriptional level and full virulence of many pathogenic bacteria. Although two early studies indicated that Hfq represses LEE expression by posttranscriptionally controlling the expression of genes grlRA and/or ler, both of which encode LEE regulators mediating a positive regulatory loop, the detailed molecular mechanism and biological significance remain unclear. Herein, we show that LEE overexpression was caused by defective RNA‐binding activity of the Hfq distal face, which posttranscriptionally represses grlA and ler expression. In vitro analyses revealed that the Hfq distal face directly binds near the translational initiation site of grlA and ler mRNAs, and inhibits their translation. Taken together, we conclude that Hfq inhibits grlA and ler translation by binding their mRNAs through the distal face in an sRNA‐independent manner. Additionally, we show that Hfq‐mediated repression of LEE is critical for normal EHEC growth because all suppressor mutations that restored the growth defect in the hfq mutant abolished hfq deletion‐induced overexpression of LEE.
Endocrine‐disrupting chemicals and obesity risk: A review of recommendations for obesity prevention policies
Authors: Lobstein Tim , Brownell Kelly D.
Published: August 2021

Emerging evidence indicates that industrially produced endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may be as obesogenic as poor dietary patterns and should be considered in obesity prevention policies. The authors conducted two reviews: (a) a systematic search of four electronic databases for papers published since January 2010 to identify the policy recommendations contained in scientific reviews of EDC exposure and obesity risk and (b) a narrative review of obesity policy documents published since January 2012 to identify the recommendations of national and international agencies. A search of four electronic databases found 63 scientific reviews with policy recommendations, of which 26 suggested individual responsibility to avoid exposure, 11 suggested medical interventions to counter the effects of exposure, and 42 suggested regulatory control of hazardous chemicals. Of sixty policy documents examined, six mentioned pollutants as a possible risk factor for obesity, and only one made explicit reference to strategies for reducing exposure to EDCs. The UN Sustainable Development Goals include targets to prevent ill health from hazardous chemicals (Targets 3.9 and 12.4) and to remove unsafe industrial chemicals from the environment (Targets 6.3, 11.6, 12.4, and 14.1). The authors suggest these should be explicitly linked to World Health Assembly targets to halt the rise in obesity.
Species identity and the functioning of ecosystems: the role of detritivore traits and trophic interactions in connecting of multiple ecosystem responses
Authors: Hines Jes , Eisenhauer Nico
Published: August 2021

Ecosystems world‐wide experience changes in species composition in response to natural and anthropogenic changes in environmental conditions. Research to date has greatly improved our understanding of how species affect focal ecosystem functions. However, because measurements of multiple ecosystem functions have not been consistently justified for any given trophic group, it is unclear whether interpretations of research syntheses adequately reflect the contributions of consumers to ecosystems. Using model communities assembled in experimental microcosms, we examined the relationship between four numerically dominant detritivore species and six ecosystem functions that underpin fundamental aspects of carbon and nitrogen cycling above‐ and below‐ground. We tested whether ecosystem responses to changes in detritivore identity depended upon species trait dissimilarity, food web compartment (aboveground, belowground, mixed) or number of responses considered (one to six). We found little influence of detritivore species identity on brown (i.e. soil‐based) processes. Only one of four detritivore species uniquely influenced decomposition, and detritivore species did not vary in their influence on soil nitrogen pools (NO3− and NH4+), or root biomass. However, changes in detritivore identity influenced multiple aboveground ecosystem functions. That is, by serving as prey, ecosystem engineers and occasionally also as herbivores as well as detritivores, these species altered the strength of aboveground predator–herbivore interactions and plant–shoot biomass. Yet, dissimilarity of detritivore functional traits was not associated with dissimilarity of ecosystem functioning. These results serve as an important reminder that consumers influence ecosystem processes via multiple energy channels and that food web interactions set important context for consumer‐mediated effects on multiple ecosystem functions. Given that species are being lost, gained and redistributed at unprecedented rates, we can anticipate that changes in species identity will have additional ecosystem consequences beyond those predicted by species' primary functional role.
Skin concerns in patients with trisomy 21 (Down syndrome): A Mayo Clinic 22‐year retrospective review
Authors: Wentworth Ashley B. , Hand Jennifer L. , Davis Dawn M. , Tollefson Megha M.
Published: August 2021

Background/Objectives

Trisomy 21 has known associated clinical phenotypes, including skin and soft tissue concerns. However, the overall prevalence and types of findings are largely unclear.

Methods

A retrospective review of children with trisomy 21 and one or more dermatologic diagnoses, seen from 1/1/1994 to 7/1/2016, was performed to record dermatologic diagnoses. If one or more diagnoses were confirmed, further data were collected, including demographics, medical specialty, referrals to dermatology, treatment, complications, and follow‐up.

Results

One hundred and seventy‐four patients with a diagnosis of trisomy 21 aged 18 years or younger were confirmed to have one or more dermatologic diagnoses. In a total of 479 dermatologic diagnoses, superficial mycoses (12%), skin and soft tissue infections (10%), dermatitis (8%), and folliculitis (8%) were most common. Diagnoses were most commonly made as an outpatient (91%) and by general pediatrics (45%) or dermatology (25%). A significant difference (P < .05) in the frequency of various diagnoses made by different specialties was observed. A significant difference (P < .05) in the treatments recommended by different specialties was also observed. Referrals to dermatology were infrequent (6%). However, a frequent change in diagnosis (61%) or treatment (68%) for patients referred to dermatology was observed.

Conclusions

Children with trisomy 21 are most commonly diagnosed with superficial mycoses, skin and soft tissue infections, dermatitis, and folliculitis. The majority of diagnoses were made by general pediatricians and although dermatology referral was rarely necessary, consultations often resulted in change of diagnosis and/or treatment, supporting consideration of early and frequent dermatology referral.
Poor response to intravenous immunoglobulin in patients with a parental history of Kawasaki disease
Authors: Iwasa Mitsuji , Inukai Sachiko
Published: August 2021

Background

Patients whose parents had a history of Kawasaki disease (KD) often show a poor response to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). There are very few reports describing the clinical characteristics and no reports on changes in C‐reactive protein (CRP) level after IVIG administration in such cases.

Methods

A single‐center cohort study including 950 patients hospitalized for KD and treated with IVIG was conducted. The patients were divided into two groups: patients whose parents had a history of KD (PHK) (N = 16) and patients whose parents had no history of KD (NPHK) (N = 934). The clinical characteristics and responsiveness to IVIG were compared between the two groups.

Results

The PHK group had higher CRP levels before administering IVIG than the NPHK group (P = 0.0010). CRP levels after IVIG administration were higher in the PHK group than in the NPHK group (P = 0.0094). The percentage of patients who received a second administration of IVIG on day 2 after the initial IVIG therapy was higher in the PHK group than in the NPHK group (P = 0.0016). The percentage of patients who required plasma exchange therapy in the PHK group was significantly higher than that in the NPHK group (P = 0.0010).

Conclusions

Patients in the PHK group had severe KD before IVIG administration, and these patients showed poor responsiveness to IVIG therapy.
Delayed Expulsion of biliary cast after hepaticojejunostomy for post‐liver transplantation biliary stricture—better cut than canulate?
Authors: Krishnan Sathish Kumar , Varghese Joy , Patcha Rajanikanth , Hosaagrahara Ramakrishna Somashekara , Reddy Mettu Srinivas
Published: August 2021

Background

Biliary strictures after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) are a significant cause of post‐transplant morbidity. Endoscopic therapy is usually the first choice of treatment though surgical treatment may provide better biliary drainage.

Methods

We report a case of LDLT performed in a child for acute liver failure who developed an anastomotic biliary stricture with biliary cast formation. We performed a Roux en Y hepaticojejunostomy to treat the stricture.

Results

Allograft function improved after surgery with no further episodes of cholangitis. Two months after the surgery, the child passed a large biliary cast in the stools. This reiterates the advantage of wide biliary drainage provided through surgical therapy.

Conclusions

Surgery for biliary strictures following LDLT may provide superior long term biliary drainage‐ especially when biliary casts are present.
Light‐responsive and Protic Ruthenium Compounds Bearing Bathophenanthroline and Dihydroxybipyridine Ligands Achieve Nanomolar Toxicity towards Breast Cancer Cells†
Authors: Oladipupo Olaitan E. , Brown Spenser R. , Lamb Robert W. , Gray Jessica L. , Cameron Colin G. , DeRegnaucourt Alexa R. , Ward Nicholas A. , Hall James Fletcher , Xu Yifei , Petersen Courtney M. , Qu Fengrui , Shrestha Ambar B. , Thompson Matthew K. , Bonizzoni Marco , Webster Charles Edwin , McFarland Sherri A. , Kim Yonghyun , Papish Elizabeth T.
Published: August 2021

We report new ruthenium complexes bearing the lipophilic bathophenanthroline (BPhen) ligand and dihydroxybipyridine (dhbp) ligands which differ in the placement of the OH groups ([(BPhen)2Ru(n,n′‐dhbp)]Cl2 with n = 6 and 4 in 1A and 2A, respectively). Full characterization data are reported for 1A and 2A and single crystal X‐ray diffraction for 1A. Both 1A and 2A are diprotic acids. We have studied 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B (B = deprotonated forms) by UV‐vis spectroscopy and 1 photodissociates, but 2 is light stable. Luminescence studies reveal that the basic forms have lower energy 3MLCT states relative to the acidic forms. Complexes 1A and 2A produce singlet oxygen with quantum yields of 0.05 and 0.68, respectively, in acetonitrile. Complexes 1 and 2 are both photocytotoxic toward breast cancer cells, with complex 2 showing EC50 light values as low as 0.50 μM with PI values as high as >200 vs. MCF7. Computational studies were used to predict the energies of the 3MLCT and 3MC states. An inaccessible 3MC state for 2B suggests a rationale for why photodissociation does not occur with the 4,4′‐dhbp ligand. Low dark toxicity combined with an accessible 3MLCT state for 1O2 generation explains the excellent photocytotoxicity of 2.
Particulate matter‐induced atmospheric skin aging is aggravated by UVA and inhibited by a topical l‐ascorbic acid compound
Authors: Kim Soomin , Kim Jihee , Lee Young In , Jang Seulgi , Song Seung Yong , Lee Won Jai , Lee Ju Hee
Published: August 2021

Ambient particulate matter (PM) is a major contributor to environmental air pollution‐associated skin damage. However, most published studies are observational or epidemiologic and have not mechanistically investigated the effects of air pollutants on cellular senescence and aging, particularly in combination with ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Herein, we analyzed whether UVA aggravates the PM‐induced inflammatory cascade, which contributes to the aging of skin‐derived cells. We hypothesized that cellular senescence is involved in PM&UVA‐induced aging and tested whether an l‐ascorbic acid compound (LAC), containing vitamin E and ferulic acid, can inhibit PM&UVA‐induced aging. PM&UVA‐exposed HDFs showed further elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels detected by flow cytometry. We then demonstrated that PM induces MAPK signaling activation and the expression of AhR and NF‐κB, responses that are both exacerbated by UVA. The levels of inflammatory cytokines, IL‐1β and IL‐6, were significantly higher in the PM&UVA‐exposed group which resulted in increased transcription of MMPs, causing downregulation of type I collagen. Meanwhile, treatment with LAC reduced the levels of ROS and inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, PM&UVA‐induced SA‐β‐gal production (staining assay) was reduced by LAC. These findings suggest a role of atmospheric pollution and UVA radiation in cellular senescence induction. Our findings also suggest a possible role of AhR inhibition by topical antioxidants to prevent atmospheric pollution‐induced skin aging.
Fusarium rosicola sp. nov. causing vascular wilt on Rosa chinensis
Authors: He Jiao , Li De‐Wei , Zhang Yu , Ju Yun‐Wei , Huang Lin
Published: August 2021

Chinese rose (Rosa chinensis) is one of the most popular and widely cultivated flowers worldwide and has extremely high economic and ornamental value. In 2020 wilt disease on R. chinensis was discovered in Pukou District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China. Fungal isolates were obtained from the stems of the rose. According to morphological characteristics and multilocus phylogenetic analyses with the sequences of the rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS), translation elongation factor 1‐α gene (TEF1‐α), and part of the RNA polymerase II gene (RPB2), the isolates YJ1 to YJ4 were determined as a new species of Fusarium solani species complex, and named as Fusarium rosicola sp. nov., which is hereby described and illustrated. Pathogenicity of the isolate YJ1 was verified by Koch's postulates. The fungus was determined as the pathogen causing rose vascular wilt. The isolate YJ1 was labelled with green fluorescent protein (GFP), and roots of R. chinensis were inoculated. The result showed that the fungus infected the vascular tissue of the host plants and caused withering of the above‐ground parts, resulting in the death of the whole plant. The GFP‐labelled pathogen was reisolated from the stems and foliage, proving that this is a newly emerged systemic disease on R. chinensis in the world.
A simple model of the Hukou system and Chinese exports
Authors: Zhao Laixun
Published: August 2021

We construct a simple model of hukou reform for the transition period (specifically, 1984–2010) when peasants were allowed to migrate to cities for work only. We show that reform recovers some of the deadweight losses from Mao's strict hukou control, but the gains from reform are unevenly distributed. Using the basic model, we illustrate two factors that contribute to China's trade boom and export pattern reversal, namely, the rural–urban migration caused by the institutional reform in the labor market and the demographic dividend China has enjoyed for the past 40 years. We apply the model to examine the impacts of various policies such as special economic zones, export‐tax refund, urbanization, etc., which should provide directions for empirical and quantitative research.
Reduced knee extensor torque production at low to moderate velocities in postmenopausal women with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Rodriguez‐Lopez Carlos , Beckwée David , Luyten Frank P. , Van Assche Dieter , Van Roie Evelien
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to determine deficits in knee extensor muscle function through the torque‐time and torque‐velocity relationships and whether these deficits are associated with reduced functional performance in postmenopausal women with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). A clinical sample of postmenopausal women with established KOA (n = 18, ≥55 years) was compared to an age‐matched healthy control sample (CON) (n = 26). The deficits in different parameters of the knee extensor torque‐time (maximal isometric torque and rate of torque development) and torque‐velocity relationship (maximum muscle power, maximal velocity and torque at 0–500°·s−1) were assessed through a protocol consisting of isometric, isotonic and isokinetic tests. Functional performance was evaluated with sit‐to‐stand and stair‐climbing tasks using a sensor‐based technology (ie, time‐ and power‐based outcomes). Postmenopausal women with KOA showed reduced maximal isometric torque (Hedge's g effect size (g) = 1.05, p = 0.001) and rate of torque development (g = 0.77‒1.17, all p ≤ 0.02), combined with impaired torque production at slow to moderate velocities (g = 0.92‒1.70, p ≤ 0.004), but not at high or maximal velocities (g = 0.16, p > 0.05). KOA were slower (g = 0.81‒0.92, p ≤ 0.011) and less powerful (g = 1.11‒1.29, p ≤ 0.001) during functional tasks. Additionally, knee extensor deficits were moderately associated with power deficits in stair climbing (r = 0.492‒0.659). To conclude, knee extensor muscle weakness was presented in postmenopausal women with KOA, not only as limited maximal and rapid torque development during isometric contractions, but also dynamically at low to moderate velocities. These deficits were related to impaired functional performance. The assessment of knee extensor muscle weakness through the torque‐time and torque‐velocity relationships might enable individual targets for tailored exercise interventions in KOA.
Identifying patterns behind the changes in skin pores using 3‐dimensional measurements and K‐means clustering
Authors: Lee Seongwoo , Cherel Marie , Gougeon Sarah , Jeong Euitaek , LIM Jun‐Man , Park Sun Gyoo
Published: August 2021

Background

Skin pores are structural features of the skin, which tend to change as the skin ages. Since previous studies measured pores two‐dimensionally, precise measurements using three‐dimensional imaging were needed to comprehensively understand skin pores. This study aimed to determine the patterns behind the changes in skin pores during one's lifetime and to identify new characteristics of the pores in aged.

Materials and Methods

Skin surface profiles were measured three‐dimensionally from the cheeks of 101 Korean women from February to March 2020 to analyze the exact state of their pores. The researchers performed K‐means clustering to classify the skin pores, and topographical features of pores were analyzed as well. Statistical analyses were performed to verify the differences in the skin pore characteristics among clusters and the correlation between clusters and ages.

Results

Skin pores were classified into five groups based on size, density, and elongation. The skin conditions of the cluster groups were well correlated with aging, despite excluding age as a factor in pore classification. Adjacent skin pores tend to connect in the elderly.

Conclusion

Skin pores become larger and longer over time. Skin pores connect together in the elderly, which might be related to wrinkle formation. This phenomenon strongly suggests skin pores as a characteristic of aging skin and as a potential target for anti‐aging treatment.
Do social constructions and gender mainstreaming in policy design affect the evaluation of the policy process? An analysis of a policy intervention in a postconflict society
Authors: Mendez Nathalie
Published: August 2021

Objective

The theory of social constructionism has been consolidated as an appropriate tool for understanding policy design, implementation, and evaluation. However, there is little empirical research about the implications of social construction on policy evaluation. The objective of the article is to contribute to the literature in public policy and gender studies by defining the impact of gender as a social construct and gender mainstreaming in public policy on beneficiaries' evaluation of the policy process.

Methods

I conducted a study of the institutional design of Colombia's policy of assistance to victims of civil war and a quantitative analysis, through ordered logit and logistic regression models, to identify how gender mainstreaming and social constructions affect the evaluation of the policy process measured as the satisfaction levels with the process of application to policy assistance.

Results

The article confirms the hypothesis that positive social constructions‐in this case, the construction of women victims‐reinforced by a strong institutional design make bureaucrats administer the policy differently to specific groups. As expected, women have more levels of satisfaction with the policy process. However, this effect is not significant for other social constructions such as ethnicity and the elderly.

Conclusion

Research in this topic should consider the differential effect of certain social constructions on policy evaluation based on how policy design crystallizes symbolic and material messages that benefit some groups.
“Visualization” of SDGs-related Patent Technologies by Natural Language Processing Technology
Authors: MAEHARA Yoshiaki , KUKU Atsushi , OSABE Yoshiyuki
Published: August 2021

SDGs is an abbreviation for “Sustainable Development Goals”, which were adopted at the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit in September 2015. They were set as goals to be achieved by the 193 United Nations Member States during the 15-year period from 2016 to 2030. Technological innovation is indispensable for the realization of the SDGs, but at present, it is unclear where (countries and companies) and to what extent SDG-related technologies are available. For this reason, we used BERT, a natural language processing technology, and Japanese patent publications we own and worked on the "visualization" of the SDGs technologies in Japan. The results show that out of the 17 SDGs goals, patents can contribute to Goals 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, 11 and 13.
Functional stability of CFTR depends on tight binding of ATP at its degenerate ATP‐binding site
Authors: Yeh Han‐I , Yu Ying‐Chun , Kuo Pei‐Lun , Tsai Chun‐Kuang , Huang Hsin‐Tuan , Hwang Tzyh‐Chang
Published: August 2021

Opening of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel is coupled to the motion of its two nucleotide‐binding domains: they form a heterodimer sandwiching two functionally distinct ATP‐binding sites (sites 1 and 2). While active ATP hydrolysis in site 2 triggers rapid channel closure, the functional role of stable ATP binding in the catalysis‐incompetent (or degenerate) site 1, a feature conserved in many other ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter proteins, remains elusive. Here, we found that CFTR loses its prompt responsiveness to ATP after the channel is devoid of ATP for tens to hundreds of seconds. Mutants with weakened ATP binding in site 1 and the most prevalent disease‐causing mutation, F508del, are more vulnerable to ATP depletion. In contrast, strengthening ligand binding in site 1 with N6‐(2‐phenylethyl)‐ATP, a high‐affinity ATP analogue, or abolishing ATP hydrolysis in site 2 by the mutation D1370N, helps sustain a durable function of the otherwise unstable mutant channels. Thus, tight binding of ATP in the degenerate ATP‐binding site is crucial to the functional stability of CFTR. Small molecules targeting site 1 may bear therapeutic potential to overcome the membrane instability of F508del‐CFTR.

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Key points

During evolution, many ATP‐binding cassette transporters – including the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) chloride channel, whose dysfunction causes cystic fibrosis (CF) – lose the ability to hydrolyse ATP in one of the two ATP‐binding sites.

Here we show that tight ATP binding at this degenerate site in CFTR is central for maintaining the stable, robust function of normal CFTR.

We also demonstrate that membrane instability of the most common CF‐causing mutant, F508del‐CFTR, can be rescued by strengthening ATP binding at CFTR's degenerate site.

Our data thus explain an evolutionary puzzle and offer a potential therapeutic strategy for CF.
Seca e determinismo: a gênese do discurso do semi-árido nordestino
Authors: Ribeiro Rafael Winter
Published: August 2021

The recent material published in the press concerning Northeast region of Brazil (Nordeste) shows a direct association between the region's low levels of social and economic development and its semi-arid nature. This perspective reveals a deterministic treatment of the matter. This article investigates both the origins and the avatars of such a deterministic view based on the works of the members of Instituto do Ceará, created in 1887. The analysis of this material has shown that, in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, a group of authors emphasized the climate as a conditioning factor to the region's progress. During the same period, another set of articles describes the previous periods of drought ("secas") accentuating their tragic aspects. Yet they do not establish any direct relationship between the climate and the region's poverty or wealth. In the first half of this century these views were overwhelmed by another one, that identifies the environment and the aridness as the causes of the region's underdevelopment. Since then, this last one has become the hegemonic
Impact of carrier wafer on etch rate, selectivity, morphology, and passivation during GaN plasma etching
Authors: Frye Clint D. , Donald Scott B. , Reinhardt Catherine , Voss Lars F. , Harrison Sara E.
Published: August 2021

The choice of carrier wafer was found to significantly influence etch rates, selectivity, and morphology in GaN micropillar etching in a Cl2-Ar high-density inductively coupled plasma. 7 × 7 mm2 GaN on sapphire chips with a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition SiO2 hard mask was etched on top of 4-in. fused silica, silicon carbide, silicon, sapphire, aluminum nitride, and high purity aluminum carriers. Silicon and silicon carbide carriers reduced GaN:SiO2 selectivity because incidental SiClx and CClx etch products from the carriers attack the SiO2 mask. Aluminum nitride and high-purity aluminum carriers yielded the highest GaN:SiO2 selectivities due to the deposition of Al-based etched by-products, while the highest GaN etch rate was achieved using the sapphire carrier since it was the most inert carrier and did not sink any Cl2. Results indicate that SiO2 and Al may be used as passivation materials during GaN etching, as vertical profiles were achieved when SiO2 or Al is redeposited from the fused silica and aluminum carriers, respectively. Floor pitting, trenching, sidewall roughness, and faceting were all influenced by carrier wafer type and will be discussed.