bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In conversation with Nigel Scrutton
Authors: Dhillon Paraminder , Scrutton Nigel S.
Published: December 2020

Nigel Scrutton FRS is Professor of Molecular Enzymology and Biophysical Chemistry at the University of Manchester and former Director of the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB). He obtained a first degree in Biochemistry from King’s College London and followed this with a PhD at the University of Cambridge. His doctoral research, undertaken in Richard Perham’s laboratory, yielded fundamental breakthroughs in enzyme redesign that have stood the test of time. Nigel was awarded a ScD degree by the University of Cambridge in 2003. After faculty positions at the University of Leicester, Nigel was appointed Professor at the University of Manchester in 2005. Over the last 15 years, he has cemented his reputation as a world leader in the fields of enzyme engineering and biocatalysis, synthetic biology, biophysics and biomanufacturing, notably by establishing and directing the Synthetic Biology Research Centre ‘SYNBIOCHEM’ and UK Future Biomanufacturing Research Hub. In recognition of his scientific contributions, he has received many academic awards and accolades, including being elected as Fellow of the Royal Society earlier this year. In this interview, he highlights how fundamental studies of enzymatic catalysis and mechanisms are driving key advances in biotechnology and biomanufacturing, and describes how the experiences and mentors of his formative years helped to shape his successful career at the interface between discovery and application‐focused science.
An overview of the methodology and general findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2018: Older persons’ health in Malaysia
Authors: Sooryanarayana Rajini , Wong Norazizah Ibrahim , Ahmad Noor Ani , Razak Mohammad Aznuddin Abdul , Yusoff Muhammad Fadhli Mohd , Chan Ying Ying , Omar Mohd Azahadi , Abidin Sheleaswani Inche Zainal , Bakar Faridah Abu , Aris Tahir
Published: December 2020

Aim

This article describes the methodology of the 2018 Malaysian National Health and Morbidity Survey, and provides an overview of the sociodemographic details of the respondents and key findings on the health of older adults.

Methods

The survey included 3977 community‐dwelling respondents, aged ≥60 years across Malaysia. Two‐stage stratified random sampling with selection of enumeration blocks from both urban and rural areas ensured the findings were representative of the Malaysian older population.

Results

Complex sampling analyses ensured that findings on various geriatric syndromes, non‐communicable diseases, nutritional status, functional status, social well‐being and quality of life are representative of the Malaysian older population. Among the limitations are that the composition of older persons varied slightly from the general older population.

Conclusions

This article presents the methodology of the survey, and a baseline of the major health issues for older persons in Malaysia to provide clear guidance to researchers, program managers and policymakers to fully utilize the data from the Malaysian National Health and Morbidity Survey toward achieving healthy aging. The findings might stimulate more research on the health problems faced by older people to provide inputs for policymaking and program implementation. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 7–15.
Senescence research from historical theory to future clinical application
Authors: Kameda Masahiro , Mikawa Takumi , Yokode Masayuki , Inagaki Nobuya , Kondoh Hiroshi
Published: December 2020

Historically, the findings from cellular lifespan studies have greatly affected aging research. The discovery of replicative senescence by Hayflick developed into research on telomeres and telomerase, while stress‐induced senescence became known as a telomere‐independent event. Senescence‐inducing signals comprise several tumor suppressors or cell cycle inhibitors, e.g., p53, cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor p16 Ink4a and others. Stress‐induced senescence serves as a physiological barrier to oncogenesis in vivo, while it activates senescence‐associated secretary phenotype, inducing chronic inflammation. Thus, beside telomere length, p16, p53 and inflammatory cytokines have been utilized as biomarkers for cellular senescence. Telomere lengths in human leukocytes correlate well with events of aging‐related lifestyle diseases, indicating the importance of cellular senescence in organismal aging. As such, the development of senescence research will have significant future clinical applications, e.g., senolysis. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 125–130.
Synthesis of β‐MoO3 nanowhiskers from core/shell molybdenum/molybdenum oxide wire by pulsed wire discharge
Authors: Chu Ngo Minh , Duy Hieu Nguyen , Do Thi Mai Dung , Nakayama Tadachika , Niihara Koichi , Suematsu Hisayuki
Published: December 2020

β‐MoO3, the molybdenum oxide phase with the highest catalytic activity, is a promising material in optical, chemical, and electronics applications as a replacement for α‐MoO3. α‐MoO3 1D nanostructures such as whiskers and fibers have been investigated and used in applications. However, difficulties in the synthesis of one‐dimensional β‐MoO3 have obstructed researchers in the study of its properties. In this research, β‐MoO3 nanowhiskers were synthesized from core/shell molybdenum/molybdenum oxide wires by pulsed wire discharge in mixed oxygen and argon gases. X‐ray diffraction analysis identified the main phase in the obtained samples as β‐MoO3. Electron microscopy observations revealed whiskers with an average length and width of 216 nm and 23 nm, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy lattice imaging confirmed the successful synthesis of β‐MoO3 nanowhiskers. Various models were considered to explain the formation of β‐MoO3 nanowhiskers, including mechanical fragmentation of α‐MoO3 layers as well as vapor‐liquid‐solid and vapor‐solid mechanisms. The phase transformation from α to β‐MoO3 under a nucleation process was explained based on the Mo‐O phase diagram. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of β‐MoO3 nanowhisker synthesis.
Tunable‐spectrum Mn2+ doped garnet transparent ceramics for high‐color rendering laser lighting
Authors: Cao Yangfei , Han Tao , Yang Jiayao , Peng Lingling , Cao Shixiu , Liu Bitao , Tian Zhongqing , Gao Wei
Published: December 2020

Laser diodes (LDs) packaged with transparent ceramics show the low thermal expansion coefficient and high thermal conductivity, but there is a problem of the low color render index (CRI) owing to the lack of red component in current transparent ceramics. Mn2+ doped garnet transparent ceramics with adjustable color from yellow to red have been prepared via a solid‐state reaction‐vacuum sintering process, which have a high transmittance of 78.6% at 800 nm. Two main emission peaks of this ceramic are monitored at 590 and 749 nm, and the gratifying luminous performance improvement is obtained due to the charge compensation effect, electron cloud expansion effect, and efficient energy transfer. LD system fabricated with the obtained ceramics and blue LD shows a high‐CRI of 80, low correlated color temperature of 4098 K, and good luminous efficiency of 96.91 m/W.
Influence of processing parameters on the microstructure of the eco‐friendly glass foam
Authors: Rangel Eduarda M. , Machado Machado Fernando , Osório Alice G. , Camaratta Rubens , de Andrade Mônica Jung , Pokorny Andrea , Bergmann Carlos P.
Published: December 2020

Eco‐friendly glass foam (GF) with a specific mechanical strength of 5.96 MPa g−1 cm3 and thermal conductivities between 0.131 and 0.282 Wm−1 K−1 was produced using fluorescent lamp glass residue (FLGR) and white eggshell as foaming agent (FA). The influence of the FLGR average diameter particle, the amount of FA, and the heat treatment on the GF final properties were evaluated. The highest expansion (500%) and the lowest density (0.24 g cm−3) were achieved using 32.90 μm mean diameter FLGR particles, 5 wt% FA, and foaming at 700°C. The produced GF showed promising application as porous building materials with load‐bearing function.
Clinical significance of long noncoding RNA maternally expressed gene 3 in acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Jiang Mei , Wang Qiufeng , Yu Ganquan , Wan Jinghua , Liu Shuyuan , Zhang Zhanglin , Le Aiping
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Long noncoding RNA maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) expression was significantly decreased in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, its expression and clinical significance in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) remain unclear. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the expression of MEG3 in APL and explore its clinical value.

Methods

A total of 287 AML patients derived from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Vizome database were enrolled. A development and validation cohort, including APL, AML with AML1/ETO, and other types of AML patients and disease controls, from the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, were also enrolled in this study. The correlation between MEG3 expression and the clinicopathological features in APL was investigated. The diagnostic values of MEG3 expression in APL were analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Result

In the development set, MEG3 expression was significantly increased in APL than AML with AML1/ETO, other types of AML, and disease controls, which was consistent with the results from the database analysis. MEG3 expression in APL was associated with age (P = .0053) but did not correlate with other clinicopathological features (P > .05). ROC curve analysis in the development set and diagnostic test analysis in the validation set suggested that MEG3 expression has a significant value in the diagnosis of APL. Furthermore, the expression of MEG3 decreased during the follow‐up of patients with negative PML/RARα fusion gene.

Conclusion

MEG3 serves as a novel marker for the diagnosis of APL, evaluates the curative effect, and provides a novel direction for further research.
Metaheuristics for the work‐troops scheduling problem
Authors: Barbalho Thiago Jobson , Santos Andréa Cynthia , Aloise Dario José
Published: December 2020

After disasters, such as in the aftermath of a major earthquake, the road network can be blocked by debris from collapsed buildings, impacting accessibility to the affected population. In addition, people move and assemble in various points of the city. In this context, road network accessibility becomes an important issue for logistics operations responsible for the relief and the distribution of supplies to the affected population. We propose metaheuristics for the multi‐period Work‐troops Scheduling Problem (WSP), extending a contribution from the literature. The WSP is an NP‐hard problem. This study brings several contributions to the WSP such as a dedicated local search and two metaheuristics: a Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search procedure and an Iterated Local Search. Results are performed on theoretical instances, and on a realistic instance of Port‐au‐Prince city in Haïti after the 2010 earthquake, where the problem has 16,660 vertices and 19,866 routes representing the urban network, and more than 500 blocked roads. The method developed improved the results from the literature and the results indicate its robustness. Moreover, the best‐known results for the case of the Haïti instances are presented in this study.
Onion extract gel is not better than other topical treatments in scar management: A meta‐analysis from randomised controlled trails
Authors: Yuan Xi , Shen Jie , Chen Li , Wang Liang , Yan Qing , Zhang Jiaping
Published: December 2020

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of onion extract (OE) gel on scar management, a systematic review was performed by searching Embase, PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Library databases, and a meta‐analysis was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses statement guidelines. Finally, 13 randomised controlled trails were enrolled for meta‐analysis. OE gel increased the total improvement scores assessed by investigators (P < .00001) and patients (P < .00001) than no treatment, but no differences were detected between OE gel and other commonly used topical treatments assessed by investigators (P = .56) and patients (P = .39). Moreover, OE in silicone gel increased the total improvement scores assessed by investigators (P < .00001) and patients (P = .0007) than other treatments. OE gel increased the incidence of total adverse effects compared with no treatment (P < .0001) and other treatments (P = .008) by a fixed‐effects model, and increased the incidence of dropping out caused by intolerance of treatments (P = .0002). OE gel not only has no superiority to commonly used topical treatments, but also has the potential to increase the incidence of adverse effects on scar management; OE in silicone gel might be the optimal topical choice for scar treatment; however, more evidences are needed to strength these conclusions.
Good dielectric performance and broadband dielectric polarization in Ag, Nb co‐doped TiO2
Authors: Liang Pengfei , Zhu Jie , Wu Di , Peng Hui , Chao Xiaolian , Yang Zupei
Published: December 2020

Due to the demand of miniaturization and integration for ceramic capacitors in electronic components market, TiO2‐based ceramics with colossal permittivity has become a research hotspot in recent years. In this work, we report that Ag+/Nb5+ co‐doped (Ag1/4Nb3/4)xTi1−xO2 (ANTOx) ceramics with colossal permittivity over a wide frequency and temperature range were successfully prepared by a traditional solid–state method. Notably, compositions of ANTO0.005 and ANTO0.01 respectively exhibit both low dielectric loss (0.040 and 0.050 at 1 kHz), high dielectric permittivity (9.2 × 103 and 1.6 × 104 at 1 kHz), and good thermal stability, which satisfy the requirements for the temperature range of application of X9R and X8R ceramic capacitors, respectively. The origin of the dielectric behavior was attributed to five dielectric relaxation phenomena, i.e., localized carriers' hopping, electron–pinned defect–dipoles, interfacial polarization, and oxygen vacancies ionization and diffusion, as suggested by dielectric temperature spectra and valence state analysis via XPS; wherein, electron‐pinned defect–dipoles and internal barrier layer capacitance are believed to be the main causes for the giant dielectric permittivity in ANTOx ceramics.
Can permanent His bundle pacing be safely started by operators new to this technique? Data from a multicenter registry
Authors: Chaumont Corentin , Auquier Nathanael , Milhem Antoine , Mirolo Adrian , Al Arnaout Alain , Popescu Elena , Viart Guillaume , Godin Bénédicte , Gillibert André , Savouré Arnaud , Eltchaninoff Hélène , Anselme Frédéric
Published: December 2020

Background

Right ventricular pacing (RVP) induces ventricular asynchrony in patients with normal QRS and increases the risk of heart failure and atrial fibrillation in long term. His bundle pacing (HBP) is a physiological alternative to RVP, and could overcome its drawbacks. Recent studies assessed the feasibility and safety of HBP in expert centers with a vast experience of this technique. These results may not apply to less experienced centers. We aim to evaluate the feasibility and safety of permanent HBP performed by physicians who are new to this technique.

Methods

We included all patients who underwent pacemaker implantation with attempt of HBP in three hospitals between September 2017 and January 2020. Indication for HBP was left to operators' discretion. All the operators were new for HBP. His bundle (HB) electrical parameters were recorded at implant, 3‐ and 12‐month follow‐up.

Results

HBP was successful in 141 of 170 patients (82.9%); selective HBP was obtained in 96 patients and nonselective HBP in 45. The mean procedure and fluoroscopy durations were 67.0 ± 28.8 min, and 7.3 ± 8.1 min (3.1 ± 4.1 Gy·cm2), respectively. The mean HB paced QRS duration was 106 ± 18 ms. The mean HB capture threshold was 1.29 ± 0.77 V and did not increase at 3‐ and 12‐month follow‐up. The ventricular lead revision was required in five patients. Our results showed a rapid technical learning allowing a high procedure success rate (89.8%) after 15 procedures.

Conclusion

HBP performed by operators new to this technique appeared feasible and safe. This should encourage HBP to be performed in patients expected to experience high RVP burden.
Under‐recognition of pediatric hypertension diagnosis: Examination of 1 year of visits to community health centers
Authors: Moin Anoosh , Mohanty Nivedita , Tedla Yacob G. , Carroll Allison J. , Padilla Roxane , Langman Craig B. , Smith Justin D.
Published: December 2020

Pediatric hypertension is associated with significant target organ damage in children and cardiovascular morbidity in adulthood. Appropriate diagnosis and management per guideline recommendations are inconsistent. In this study, we determined the proportion of missed diagnosis of hypertension and prehypertension and appropriate follow‐up in pediatric patients, stratified by sex, age, race/ethnicity, and weight status. Based on the electronic health record (EHR) data from eight federally qualified health centers, among 62,982 children aged 3 to 18 years, 6233 (10%) had at least one abnormal blood pressure (BP) measurement over twelve months. Among those children whose recorded BPs met the criteria for prehypertension (N = 6178), 14.6% had a diagnosis in the EHR. These children were more likely to be White and have obesity compared with children who met the criteria but were not diagnosed with prehypertension. Among those who met the criteria for hypertension (N = 55), 41.8% had a diagnosis of hypertension in the EHR. Being diagnosed with hypertension was not associated with any examined patient characteristics. Over eleven months, 2837 children had BP ≥ 95th percentile on ≥ 1 visit. Only 13% had guideline‐adherent follow‐up within 1 month and were more likely to be older, female, and of Hispanic ethnicity or “other” race. Over six months, 2902 children had BP ≥ 90th percentile on one visit. 41% had guideline‐adherent follow‐up within 6 months and were more likely to be older, of either White, Hispanic, Asian race, or Hispanic ethnicity. In a community‐based setting, pediatric hypertension and prehypertension were persistently underdiagnosed with low adherence to recommended follow‐up.
Factors associated with Diaphorina citri immigration into commercial citrus orchards in São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Zorzenon Fernando P. F. , Tomaseto Arthur F. , Daugherty Matthew P. , Lopes João R. S. , Miranda Marcelo P.
Published: December 2020

Seasonality often influences multiple aspects of vector‐borne plant diseases. With respect to the management of plant disease vectors, an understanding of the factors driving seasonal changes in vector flight activity may improve management outcomes by facilitating more proactive application of control measures. One of the most challenging issues for citrus Huanglongbing management is to forecast when disease primary spread by bacteriliferous Diaphorina citri will occur. We monitored the temporal patterns of immigrating psyllids, using upwards of 1,200 traps spread among 9 citrus farms and checked on a weekly basis over 4 years. This dataset was analysed with a set of hierarchical models to estimate the effect of climatic variables on citrus foliage production (i.e. flush), and effects of climatic variables and citrus foliage dynamics on D. citri catches over the season. The results showed substantial seasonal variability in immigrating D. citri abundance, with the critical dispersal/migration period occurring between end of winter and spring. During this period, 65% of the total psyllids were collected on sticky traps. Seasonality of immigrating D. citri coincided with changes in certain climate variables, with negative effects of humidity and daily maximum temperatures, and a positive effect of rainfall amount in prior weeks. Maximum temperature and both daily minimum temperature and rainfall during prior weeks were also associated with new citrus flush production, which itself was positively related to immigrating D. citri abundance. Based on these results, citrus growers should be aware and intensify the frequency of psyllid control tactics (i.e. insecticide and/or kaolin sprays) during this period in order to prevent Ca. L. asiaticus transmission. These results are an important step towards developing the predictive framework needed to refine D. citri and huanglongbing management.
Modeling and optimization of drying conditions of dog rose for preparation of a functional tea
Authors: Pashazadeh Hojjat , Zannou Oscar , Koca Ilkay
Published: December 2020

Dog rose (Rosa caninaL.) is a rosehip used for domestic and industrial purposes. It has great antioxidant compounds such as lycopene and phenolic compounds. In the present study, technological processing was investigated to formulate a functional tea with great nutraceutical compounds. The drying conditions were optimized to have maximum antioxidant properties. The optimum conditions were 68°C and 1 m s−1, providing the values of 40751.17 mg GAE/kg, 14.17 mg EGC E/100 g, 278.87 mmol TE/g, 44.62 mmol ISE/g, 3051.36 mg/kg, and 13.28 mg/kg for TPC, TFC, DPPH radical scavenging, FRAP, ascorbic acid, and lycopene, respectively. Midilli model described well the drying behavior of Dog rose and, Peleg, Weibull and Vega‐galves models predicted well the rehydration kinetics. A two‐factor and central composite design was applied to evaluate the effects of decoction time and solid‐to‐liquid ratio. At the optimal conditions, the Dog rose tea had 98141.28 mg GAE/kg, 2720.66 mg EGC E/100 g, 8616.57 mmol TE/g, 728.24 mmol ISE/g; and 3,358 for TPC, TFC, DPPH radical scavenging, FRAP, and ascorbic acid content, respectively. The findings showed that Dog rose fruit is a great source of nutraceutical compounds and a potential industrial product.

Practical application

The drying conditions to have a dried fruit with high antioxidant properties were determined. The dried Dog rose fruit is stable for long storage period and be afforded in off‐seasons. Optimization and mathematical models were successfully applied to determine the optimum drying conditions and to predict the drying and rehydration kinetics, respectively. Midilli model was the most fitted model to predict the drying kinetics, while, Peleg, Vegas‐gálves and Weibull models depicted better the rehydration kinetics at 20, 40, and 60°C. The dried fruit can be used in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries for many purposes. A functional fruit tea was formulated and optimized for its nutraceutical properties. This tea is a functional food used as a natural preventive remedy for flu, cancer, anemia, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes as well.
Use of phenomenological rheology methods to analyze the viscoelastic properties of bee honeys
Authors: Orczykowska Magdalena , Olejnik Tomasz P. , Rosicka‐Kaczmarek Justyna , Miśkiewicz Karolina , Kowalska Gabriela
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of temperature on the rheological properties of natural Polish honeys. We used phenomenological rheology methods to assess the elasticity and crosslinking ability of the structure of the honeys, as well as to investigate both the possibility of slowing down the aging process and the damping factor of the network oscillations. Dynamic tests of buckwheat, clover, and honeydew honeys were performed by measuring the storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G′′) in the angular frequency range of 0.1 rad/s to 100 rad/s across a wide temperature range (−20°C to 70°C). The honeys were found to have a typical structure for viscoelastic quasi‐solid bodies, with a tendency to form a pseudo‐gel. Phenomenological rheology methods were shown to be suitable for assessing changes in the structures of bioproducts, such as bee honeys.

Practical Applications

The presence of so many different chemical compounds in honey makes it a material with heterogeneous and variable molecular structure, which depends on the way it is stored and the individual operations performed during processing (liquefaction, pumping, transport, etc.). Temperature is among many factors influencing the properties and structure of honey during technological operations. Phenomenological rheology methods have been shown to be an appropriate tool for assessing changes in the structure of bioproducts such as bee honeys. Their use makes it possible to determine changes in the rheological parameters of the tested honeys, resulting from temperature changes during storage or transport. The analysis of the mechanical state of the structure honeys carried out this way can be useful to properly design (predict) the course of processing processes of such a medium, which is particularly important from the point of view of utility characteristics and physicochemical properties of the final product obtained with the use of honey.
COVID‐19 Infection Prevention and Control Adherence in Long‐Term Care Facilities, Atlanta, Georgia
Authors: Telford Carson T. , Bystrom Cyndra , Fox Teresa , Holland David P. , Wiggins‐Benn Sherry , Mandani Anjum , McCloud Meshell , Shah Sarita
Published: December 2020

Background/Objective

Recommendations for infection prevention and control (IPC) of COVID‐19 in long‐term care settings were developed based on limited understanding of COVID‐19 and should be evaluated to determine their efficacy in reducing transmission among high‐risk populations.

Design and Setting

Site visits to 24 long‐term care facilities (LTCFs) in Fulton County, Georgia, were conducted between June and July 2020 to assess adherence to current guidelines, provide real‐time feedback on potential weaknesses, and identify specific indicators whose implementation or lack thereof was associated with higher or lower prevalence of COVID‐19.

Participants

Twenty‐four LTCFs were visited, representing 2,580 LTCF residents, among whom 1,004 (39%) were infected with COVID‐19.

Measurements

Overall IPC adherence in LTCFs was analyzed for 33 key indicators across five categories: Hand Hygiene, Disinfection, Social Distancing, PPE, and Symptom Screening. Facilities were divided into Higher‐ and Lower‐prevalence groups based on cumulative COVID‐19 infection prevalence to determine differences in IPC implementation.

Results

IPC implementation was lowest in the Disinfection category (32%) and highest in the Symptom Screening category (74%). Significant differences in IPC implementation between the Higher‐ and Lower‐prevalence groups were observed in the Social Distancing category (Higher‐prevalence group 54% vs Lower‐prevalence group 74%, P < .01) and the PPE category (Higher‐prevalence group 41% vs Lower‐prevalence group 72%, P < .01).

Conclusion

LTCFs with lower COVID‐19 prevalence among residents had significantly greater implementation of IPC recommendations compared to those with higher COVID‐19 prevalence, suggesting the utility in adhering to current guidelines to reduce transmission in this vulnerable population.
Isolation and characterization of exosomes from adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: González‐Cubero Elsa , González‐Fernández María Luisa , Gutiérrez‐Velasco Laura , Navarro‐Ramírez Eliezer , Villar‐Suárez Vega
Published: December 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are the subject of intense research as they are a potential therapeutic tool for several clinical applications. The new MSCs action models are focused on the use of MSC‐derived secretome which contains several growth factors, cytokines, microRNAs, and extracellular vesicles such as exosomes. Exosomes have recently emerged as a component with great potential involved as mediators in cellular communication. The isolation and identification of exosomes has made it possible for them to be used in cell‐free therapies. The purposes of this study are: (i) to detect exosomes released into adipose‐derived MSC conditioned cell culture medium, (ii) to identify exosome morphology, and (iii) to carry out a complete characterization of said exosomes. Moreover, it is aimed at determining which method for exosome isolation would be best to use. Precipitation has been identified as a highly useful method of exosome isolation since it provides higher efficiency and purity values than other methods. A broad characterization of the exosomes present in the MSC‐conditioned medium was also carried out. This work fills a gap in the existing literature on bioactive molecules which have attracted a great deal of interest due to their potential use in cellular therapies.
Exploring the macrostructural anatomy of dendrochirotid sea cucumber’s (Echinodermata) calcareous rings under micro‐computed tomography and its bearing on phylogeny
Authors: Martins Luciana , Souto Camilla , Tavares Marcos
Published: December 2020

Despite descending from heavily calcified ancestors, the holothuroid skeleton is fully internal and composed of microscopic ossicles and a ring of plates bound by connective tissue, the calcareous ring. The calcareous ring exhibits a complex and poorly understood morphology; as a result, establishing unambiguous homology statements about its macrostructure has been challenging and phylogenetic studies have had to simplify this important structure. Here, we provide the first broad comparative study of Dendrochirotida calcareous rings using micro‐computed tomography (μCT). A detailed description of the three‐dimensional macrostructure of the calcareous ring of 10 sea cucumber species, including rare and type specimens, is presented. The structures observed were highly variable at the subfamily level, especially at the point of tissue attachment. The relationship between the calcareous ring and its associated organs, and their functional morphology are discussed. To aid future phylogenetic studies, we listed 22 characters and performed a preliminary cladistic analysis. The topology obtained supports the idea that the simple, cucumariid ring is ancestral to the mosaic‐like phyllophorid ring; however, it did not support the monophyly of the cucumariids. It also did not support the family Sclerodactylidae, which was described based on the ring morphology. Differently from the dermal ossicles, which are highly homoplastic, the general homoplasy index of the calcareous ring characters was relatively low. This result highlights the importance of this structure for phylogenetic inference. Unfortunately, time since collection, rough collection methods and fixation can damage the skeleton, and the calcareous ring is often overlooked in taxonomic descriptions. The data presented here will improve our understanding of holothuroid relationships and facilitate studies on holothuroid functional morphology and biomechanics.
Development of a multiphasic, cryptic screening protocol for body dysmorphic disorder in cosmetic dermatology
Authors: Fletcher Leslie
Published: December 2020

Background

The incidence of body dysmorphic disorder in cosmetic dermatology is high. Even though treating patients with this disorder may worsen symptoms and is fraught with potential complications, screening is low, due in part to lack of knowledge of the disorder, as well as inadequate screening tools.

Objectives

To verify the probability of body dysmorphic disorder in a nonsurgical esthetic setting and determine the effect of a multiphasic screening protocol on mitigating poor outcomes in high‐risk patients.

Methods

A multiphasic screening protocol for body dysmorphic disorder was distributed to a total of eight esthetic clinics in the United States. Practitioners administered an anonymous, cryptic prescreening form to all new, incoming patients aged ≥ 18 to ≤ 65 years from June 1, 2019, through September 1, 2019, followed by a second, more extensive screening questionnaire. Patients with suspected or subclinical body dysmorphic disorder could be refused treatment.

Results

A total of 734 initial screenings were recorded over 16 weeks. Of these, 4.2% (31/734) proceeded to the secondary screening phase; 29% (9/31) subsequently screened positive for body dysmorphic disorder. Practitioners refused to treat 77.8% (7/9) of positive screenings. Two patients out of seven who tested positive underwent a third screening and were subsequently treated with positive outcomes.

Conclusions

Use of a cryptic screening protocol enables identification of individuals at risk for BDD and encourages open and continuous communication between patient and provider.
Retrospective analysis of the use of two recombinant follitropin alfa injections in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment with the gonadotropin‐releasing hormone antagonist protocol
Authors: Šprem Goldštajn Marina , Dumančić Stipe , Mikuš Mislav
Published: December 2020

Aim

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of biosimilar (Ovaleap) compared with the referenced follitropin alfa (Gonal‐f), within the context of antagonistic multiple doses protocol of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) for in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) techniques.

Methods

A retrospective, monocentric study included 229 infertile women aged 22 to 43 years who underwent their first cycle of COH for the purpose of the IVF or ICSI during the period of 2017. Eligible patients underwent ovarian stimulation with either Ovaleap (n = 152) or Gonal‐f (n = 77) starting at Cycle Day 2 and were receiving gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist in either fixed or flexible antagonist protocol manner.

Results

Ovaleap‐treatment resulted in fewer number of oocytes retrieved in regard to Gonal‐f‐treatment, with the median of seven oocytes retrieved in the Ovaleap group versus nine in the Gonal‐f group (U = 5369.5, P = 0.3079). Clinical pregnancy rate was 24.3% in the overall study sample and 31.9% in women with embryo transfer, in the Ovaleap group. Similarly, in the Gonal‐f group these rates were 25.0% and 34.5%, respectively. Only four patients experienced ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, with one case in Ovaleap‐treatment group and three cases in Gonal‐f‐treatment group.

Conclusion

While the clinical efficacy profile favored using Gonal‐f formulation of follitropin alfa, this analysis showed that there is no significant difference in the number of oocytes retrieved between Ovaleap and Gonal‐f follitropin alfa formulations, used within GnRH antagonist protocols of COH.
Antimicrobial therapy during cancer treatment: Beyond antibacterial effects
Authors: Ghanem S. , Kim C.J. , Dutta D. , Salifu M. , Lim S.H.
Published: December 2020

Cancer treatment options have evolved to include immunotherapy and targeted therapy, in addition to traditional chemoradiation. Chemoradiation places the patient at a higher risk of infection through a myelosuppressive effect. High clinical suspicion and early use of antimicrobials play a major role in decreasing any associated morbidity and mortality. This has led to a widespread use of antimicrobials in cancer patients. Antimicrobial use, however, does not come without its perils. Dysbiosis caused by antimicrobial use affects responses to chemotherapeutic agents and is prognostic in the development and severity of certain cancer treatment‐related complications such as graft‐versus‐host disease and Clostridioides difficile infections. Studies have also demonstrated that an intact gut microbiota is essential in the anticancer immune response. Antimicrobial use can therefore modulate responses and outcomes with immunotherapy targeting immune checkpoints. In this review, we highlight the perils associated with antimicrobial use during cancer therapy and the importance of a more judicious approach. We discuss the nature of the pathologic changes in the gut microbiota resulting from antimicrobial use. We explore the effect these changes have on responses and outcomes to different cancer treatment modalities including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, as well as potential adverse clinical consequences in the setting of stem cell transplant.
Relative risk of positional and dynamic temporomandibular disc abnormality for osteoarthritis—magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Takaoka Ryota , Yatani Hirofumi , Senzaki Yuki , Koishi Yukiko , Moriguchi Daisuke , Ishigaki Shoichi
Published: December 2020

Dynamic articular disc abnormality (wR, with reduction; woR, without reduction) is well known as the risk factor for temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA). However, there are few speculations on the potential risk of positional disc abnormalities for TMJOA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relative risk of positional abnormality and dynamic abnormality of the temporomandibular disc for OA after the three‐dimensional interpretation of all the sagittal and coronal planes of magnetic resonance (MR) data in a large dataset of consecutive subjects. Experimental samples consisted of images of 1356 TMJs of patients. A diagnosis of disc state was established in each TMJ utilising a 1.5T MR imaging scanner. A binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the significant associations between the outcome (dependent variable: the presence of OA) and the predictors (covariates: age, sex, dynamic disc state [the presence of woR], and 5 categories of the positional disc state [NA, no abnormality; SW, sideways; pADD, partial anterior; cADD, complete anterior; PDD, posterior]). Based on the result of the binary logistic regression analysis, the presence of woR showed an odds ratio of 14.1 (P < .05). In addition, compared with the joints NA, those with SW and cADD showed odds ratios of 5.62 and 10.88, respectively (P < .05). Despite the limitations of the study, in the positional disc abnormalities, sideways disc displacement and complete anterior disc displacement could be associated with the occurrence of TMJOA. All the coronal and sagittal MR images should be evaluated to assess intra‐articular joint disorders accurately.
The Effects of High‐Information Environments on Legislative Behavior in the US House of Representatives
Authors: Trussler Marc
Published: December 2020

I show in this article how changes in the information environment have contributed to the nationalization of legislative behavior. Access to technologies like broadband have eroded local news media resources and led to a more partisan electorate. As such, increased connectivity causes legislators to prioritize national interests over the interests of their constituencies, behavior that is traditionally seen as an electoral liability. I use data on the rollout of broadband to relate changes in the information environment faced by legislators due to the 2002 redistricting to their behavior. I find that legislators who faced more informationally connected environments post‐redistricting voted more in line with their parties, the president, and aligned interest groups. The results are robust to a specification examining within‐member changes in the 108th–111th Congresses. Taken together, these results provide strong evidence that a major contributor to the increasing nationalization of politics is the expansion of access to information.
Pleistocene climate fluctuations drove demographic history of African golden wolves (Canis lupaster)
Authors: Sarabia Carlos , vonHoldt Bridgett , Larrasoaña Juan C. , Uríos Vicente , Leonard Jennifer A.
Published: December 2020

Pleistocene climate change impacted entire ecosystems throughout the world. In the northern hemisphere, the distribution of Arctic species expanded during glacial periods, while more temperate and mesic species contracted into climatic refugia, where isolation drove genetic divergence. Cycles of local cooling and warming in the Sahara region of northern Africa caused repeated contractions and expansions of savannah‐like environments which connected mesic species isolated in refugia during interglacial times, possibly driving population expansions and contractions; divergence and geneflow in the associated fauna. Here, we use whole genome sequences of African golden wolves (Canis lupaster), a generalist mesopredator with a wide distribution in northern Africa to estimate their demographic history and past episodes of geneflow. We detect a correlation between divergence times and cycles of increased aridity‐associated Pleistocene glacial cycles. A complex demographic history with responses to local climate change in different lineages was found, including a relict lineage north of the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco that has been isolated for more than 18,000 years, possibly a distinct ecotype.
Self‐consciousness in autism: A third‐person perspective on the self
Authors: Arnaud Sarah
Published: December 2020

This paper suggests that autistic people relate to themselves via a third‐person perspective, an objective and explicit mode of access, while neurotypical people tend to access the different dimensions of their self through a first‐person perspective. This approach sheds light on autistic traits involving interactions with others, usage of narratives, sensitivity and interoception, and emotional consciousness. Autistic people seem to access these dimensions through comparatively indirect and effortful processes, while neurotypical development enables a more intuitive sense of self.
Lenticular nucleus volume predicts performance in real‐time strategy game: cross‐sectional and training approach using voxel‐based morphometry
Authors: Kowalczyk‐Grębska Natalia , Skorko Maciek , Dobrowolski Paweł , Kossowski Bartosz , Myśliwiec Monika , Hryniewicz Nikodem , Gaca Maciej , Marchewka Artur , Kossut Małgorzata , Brzezicka Aneta
Published: December 2020

It is unclear why some people learn faster than others. We performed two independent studies in which we investigated the neural basis of real‐time strategy (RTS) gaming and neural predictors of RTS game skill acquisition. In the first (cross‐sectional) study, we found that experts in the RTS game StarCraft® II (SC2) had a larger lenticular nucleus volume (LNV) than non‐RTS players. We followed a cross‐validation procedure where we used the volume of regions identified in the first study to predict the quality of learning a new, complex skill (SC2) in a sample of individuals who were naive to RTS games (a second (training) study). Our findings provide new insights into how the LNV, which is associated with motor as well as cognitive functions, can be utilized to predict successful skill learning and be applied to a much broader context than just video games, such as contributing to optimizing cognitive training interventions.
Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation in situs inversus dextrocardia: Challenge, improved procedure, outcomes, and literature review
Authors: Zhao Xin , Su Xin , Long De‐Yong , Sang Cai‐Hua , Bai Rong , Tang Ri‐Bo , Liu Nian , Jiang Chen‐Xi , Li Song‐Nan , Guo Xue‐Yuan , Wang Wei , Xin Du , Dong Jian‐Zeng , Yu Rong‐Hui , Ma Chang‐Sheng
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF‐CA) in patients with situs inversus dextrocardia (SID) can be challenging because of the contrary anatomy and associated anomalies. Cases and literature regarding AF‐CA in SID are rare and provide little information. Our study aims to present an improved procedure, ablation strategies, and evaluate the safety and outcomes of AF‐CA in patients with AF and SID.

Methods

A total of 10 patients with AF‐SID (mean age, 60.4 ± 15.7 years; six paroxysmal AF, four persistent atrial fibrillation [PeAF]) were enrolled. For the improved procedure, images obtained by preacquired computed tomography and three‐dimensional electroanatomical mapping, integrating intracardiac echocardiography, and x‐ray imaging data are necessary to optimize the transseptal puncture and ablation procedure.

Results

All patients successfully underwent 13 AF‐CA procedures without complications, including three patients received repeat procedures. However, two PeAF patients presented sick sinus syndrome (SSS) after the AF‐CA procedure, and one underwent permanent pacemaker implantation therapy during hospitalization. During the follow‐up period (6‐72 months), the outcomes were not favorable: three patients (30%) maintained sinus rhythm (SR) after the initial procedure; after repeated procedures, the overall SR rate was 40% (four patients).

Conclusion

With the improved strategy, AF‐CA can be safely and effectively performed with low radiation exposure in patients with SID. However, the long‐term outcomes were not favorable, even when managed at a tertiary center by a team of specialists. Moreover, patients with PeAF might also have masked SSS, which should be carefully considered.
Predictors of permanent pacemaker implantation after ACURATE neo transcatheter heart valve implantation
Authors: Kim Won‐Keun , Möllmann Helge , Walther Thomas , Hamm Christian W.
Published: December 2020

Background

Rates of permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) have been low using the self‐expanding ACURATE neo device, but data regarding risk factors of PPI for this specific device are scarce.

Methods

The study cohort consisted of patients (n = 1000) with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) using the ACURATE neo prosthesis in our center between May 2012 and December 2019. For the present analysis, we excluded patients with previous permanent pacemaker (n = 110), high‐grade AV block prior to TAVI (n = 3), and patients requiring conversion to surgical valve replacement (n = 4) or the implantation of a second prosthesis as valve‐in‐valve (n = 15). Preexisting conduction abnormalities were determined, and the implantation depth of the prosthesis was measured on final angiography. Differences across quartiles based on the original consecutive cohort were analyzed with respect to implantation depth and PPI rate. Predictors of PPI were identified using logistic regression.

Results

The PPI rate was 10%. Preexisting AV block I°, right bundle branch block (RBBB), and the implantation depth were independent predictors of PPI. Across quartiles, the implantation depth differed significantly with lowest values in the last quartile, whereas differences of PPI rates across quartiles were not statistically significant, but showed a notable decrease in the last quartile.

Conclusion

Preexisting RBBB, AV block I°, and low implantation depth were independent predictors of PPI following TAVI using the ACURATE neo device. Instead of deliberately aiming at a high position, avoidance of a low implantation depth may represent a reasonable compromise to reduce the rate of PPI without increasing the risk of malpositioning.
Burdens, Sludge, Ordeals, Red tape, Oh My!: A User's Guide to the Study of Frictions
Authors: Madsen Jonas K. , Mikkelsen Kim S. , Moynihan Donald P.
Published: December 2020

Recent years have seen a dramatic growth in the study of frictions that individuals experience, especially in their interactions with the public sector, creating both the potential for new research opportunities and conceptual confusion. We seek to head off the latter by providing, in one place, a definition, description of the development, and comparison of four dominant conceptions of frictions: ordeal mechanisms, red tape, administrative burden, and sludge. In particular, we discuss the four concepts' definitions and use in terms of their objectivity, distributive effects, object and domain, and deliberate design. This article helps researchers to understand the overlap and distinctions between these concepts and the role of public administration in these different traditions. Comparisons of the different approaches' thinking also suggest opportunities for mutual learning.
Nevocentric erythema multiforme in a child
Authors: Di Brizzi Eugenia Veronica , Tartari Federico , Filippi Federica , Virdi Annalucia , Gurioli Carlotta , Neri Iria
Published: December 2020

A 9‐year‐old girl presented with multiple, ring‐shaped, erythematous, nonscaly plaques on the trunk, face and arms, most surrounding preexisting melanocytic nevi. She had experienced recurring episodes of herpes simplex labialis over several years (average 4/year), the last occurring 10 days prior.