bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of quasi-particles in graphene with impurities and sharp edges from the kp-method standpoint
Authors: Kadigrobov A. M.
Published: August 2021

Dynamics of quasi-particles in graphene with an impurity and a sharp edge is considered with the kp-method that allows an unified approach without usage of any models. Dirac and Weyl equations are derived by the above-mentioned method. The wave function and its envelope function together with the scattering amplitude are found in the Born approximation. The wave functions are shown to be a superposition of virtual Bloch functions which exponential decay outward from the impurity and the edge. At distances much greater that the atomic spacing the wave functions are explicitly presented. Green’s functions for Shrödinger and Dirac equations are derived as well. Boundary conditions for the Dirac equation for graphene with a sharp edge are also derived.
Realization of highly rectifying Schottky barrier diodes and pn heterojunctions on κ-Ga2O3 by overcoming the conductivity anisotropy
Authors: Kneiß M. , Splith D. , Schlupp P. , Hassa A. , von Wenckstern H. , Lorenz M. , Grundmann M.
Published: August 2021

Novel devices based on orthorhombic κ-Ga2O3 could enable solar blind infrared detection or high-electron mobility transistors with large two-dimensional electron gas densities. Here, we report on the current transport parallel to the growth direction of κ-Ga2O3 layers grown by pulsed-laser deposition on highly conductive Al-doped ZnO back contact layers. Besides ohmic Ti/Al/Au contact layer stacks, vertical Pt/PtOx/κ-Ga2O3 and Pd/PdOx/κ-Ga2O3 Schottky barrier diodes and NiO/κ-Ga2O3 and ZnCo2O4/κ-Ga2O3 pn-heterodiodes are investigated by current–voltage measurements. While a lateral current transport is severely suppressed to less than 10−9Acm−2 due to rotational domains, we record a significant current flow through the ohmic contacts in the vertical direction of >0.1Acm−2. The Schottky barrier diodes and the pn-heterojunctions exhibit rectification ratios of up to seven orders of magnitude. Room temperature current–voltage characteristics of diode ensembles as well as temperature-dependent measurements for selected Pt-based diodes reveal a mean barrier height of ϕBm≈2.1eV and ideality factors down to η≈1.3.
Improved performance of wide bandwidth neutron-spin polarizer due to ferromagnetic interlayer exchange coupling
Authors: Maruyama R. , Yamazaki D. , Aoki H. , Akutsu-Suyama K. , Hanashima T. , Miyata N. , Soyama K. , Bigault T. , Saerbeck T. , Courtois P.
Published: August 2021

Ferromagnetic (FM) interlayer exchange coupling of ion-beam sputtered Fe/Ge multilayers was investigated by off-specular polarized neutron scattering measurements. We observed a monotonously growing correlation of magnetic moments in the out-of-plane direction with decreasing Ge thickness. The magnetic properties of the multilayers with and without the FM interlayer exchange coupling agree well with the three- and two-dimensional random anisotropy model, respectively, assuming an FM interlayer exchange coupling comparable to the direct exchange interaction within the sample plane. The results of the Fe/Ge multilayers were used to invoke FM interlayer exchange coupling in a neutron polarizing supermirror in order to extend its bandwidth. Typically, the bandwidth is limited due to a Curie temperature close to room temperature of the thinnest Fe layers with less than 3 nm. We propose a modified layer sequence of the neutron polarizing supermirror, where the minimum Fe thickness was set to 3.5 nm, whereas the Ge thickness was reduced. A performance test of the neutron polarizing supermirror showed that the FM interlayer exchange coupling contributed to the presence of the magnetization comparable to the bulk and resulted in a marked extension in the bandwidth.
Climate change and cyanobacteria harmful algae blooms: adaptation practices for developing countries
Authors: Silvarrey Barruffa Alejo , Sposito Victor , Faggian Robert
Published: August 2021

Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) are increasingly being reported worldwide owing to several reasons, including widespread eutrophication and enhanced scientific monitoring. Catchment and water management, organisations, industry, farmers and local governments are all confronting the effects of climate change, which stimulate the growth of cyanobacteria and affect the efficacy of adaptation measures in water systems. To tackle climate change and CyanoHABs growth, actors at different levels require both ‘top-down’ and ‘bottom-up’ assessments to help them in formulating and implementing adaptation measures. Potential solutions must also be assessed locally to limit associated adverse effects, in particular, negative effects on water quality. Thus, having a better understanding of the synergies, conflicts and trade-offs between adaptation practices and climate-change effects on CyanoHABs makes a valuable contribution to a more integrated climate policy and the effective climate-proofing of our water bodies. This article examines adaptation practices focused on tackling CyanoHABs occurrence in a changing climate. It fills an important gap between a major environmental problem and potential solutions. The practices and measures advanced as a result of the analysis can be used by persons with different expertise and skill levels for improving the relevant institutional frameworks and policies to protect their local water bodies.
Genetic diversity and restricted genetic connectivity in an endangered marine fish (
Authors: Appleyard Sharon A. , Lynch Tim P. , Green Mark A. , Encinas-Viso Francisco
Published: August 2021

Determining the genetic diversity and differentiation among populations is a critical element of conservation biology, but for many aquatic, data-deficient species with small population sizes, this is not possible. Closely related species may therefore provide a model. For the first time, using over 4000 single-nucleotide polymorphism loci, we characterise the population genetic diversity and structure of one of the world’s rarest marine fish, the spotted handfish (Brachionichthys hirsutus), a species which is also a member of the most threatened marine bony fish family (Brachionichthyidae). Fin clips were taken from 170 live spotted handfish across seven disjunct sites within the only known estuary (in Tasmania, Australia) where multiple populations of the species are found. Spatially discrete populations clustered into three genetic groupings and a significant variance in allele frequencies among populations (overall FST = 0.043), even at the small scale of the estuary, was observed. Furthermore, low contemporary migration rate estimates suggest low genetic homogeneity between locations. Because of the low genetic connectivity, population clusters of spotted handfish within the estuary should be considered as separate conservation management units. This insight should be considered for management and conservation strategies of other data-deficient and threatened species in the family.
Efficient quantum algorithm for dissipative nonlinear differential equations
Authors: Liu Jin-Peng , Kolden Herman Øie , Krovi Hari K. , Loureiro Nuno F. , Trivisa Konstantina , Childs Andrew M.
Published: August 2021

Significance

Nonlinear differential equations appear in many domains and are notoriously difficult to solve. Whereas previous quantum algorithms for general nonlinear differential equations have complexity exponential in the evolution time, we give the first quantum algorithm for dissipative nonlinear differential equations that is efficient provided the dissipation is sufficiently strong relative to nonlinear and forcing terms and the solution does not decay too rapidly. We also establish a lower bound showing that differential equations with sufficiently weak dissipation have worst-case complexity exponential in time, giving an almost tight classification of the quantum complexity of simulating nonlinear dynamics. Furthermore, numerical results for the Burgers equation suggest that our algorithm may potentially address complex nonlinear phenomena even in regimes with weaker dissipation.
Dynamical system model predicts when social learners impair collective performance
Authors: Yang Vicky Chuqiao , Galesic Mirta , McGuinness Harvey , Harutyunyan Ani
Published: August 2021

Significance

In collective decision-making systems, such as committees and governments, many individuals follow others instead of evaluating the options on their own. Can a group settle on the option with higher merit when social learners prevail? Previous research has reached mixed conclusions because collective decisions emerge from a complex interaction of cognitive and social factors, which are rarely studied together. This paper develops a simple yet general mathematical framework to study this interaction and predicts a critical threshold for the proportion of social learners, above which an option may prevail regardless of its merit. The results suggest predictable limits to the proportion of social learners in collective situations from teamwork to democratic elections, beyond which the collective performance is affected negatively.
Up-regulation of the manganese transporter SLC30A10 by hypoxia-inducible factors defines a homeostatic response to manganese toxicity
Authors: Liu Chunyi , Jursa Thomas , Aschner Michael , Smith Donald R. , Mukhopadhyay Somshuvra
Published: August 2021

Significance

Manganese is an essential metal, but elevated levels cause incurable parkinsonism. A major limitation in treating manganese-induced parkinsonism is a lack of understanding of the mechanisms that regulate levels of manganese in the body. This manuscript defines a homeostatic regulatory pathway for manganese in mammalian systems. Elevated manganese levels increase expression of SLC30A10, a protein that mediates manganese excretion, thereby reducing the body burden of manganese. Findings also define the involved mechanisms by showing that manganese enhances SLC30A10 expression by activating the hypoxia-inducible factor transcription cascade. Finally, the study reveals that hypoxia-inducible factor stabilizing drugs reduce manganese levels to protect cells and mice against manganese toxicity, providing a means to treat manganese-induced parkinsonism in humans.
Structures and topological defects in pressure-driven lyotropic chromonic liquid crystals
Authors: Zhang Qing , Zhang Rui , Ge Baoliang , Yaqoob Zahid , So Peter T. C. , Bischofberger Irmgard
Published: August 2021

Significance

Many driven and active nematic fluids exhibit complex microstructures, but their characteristics and dynamics are poorly understood. We explore the structures emerging in a pressure-driven nematic lyotropic chromonic liquid crystal in a microfluidic channel. We show that twist-type topological defects spontaneously emerge under flow. Our single-shot quantitative polarization imaging method allows us to quantify the fluctuations of these defects, which we show to reflect the tumbling character of the liquid crystal. We report how the defect size is governed by the balance between nucleation and annihilation forces, a balance that can be tuned by the flow rate. Such control over the microstructure opens pathways for using these nematic materials in optical devices and to control assembly of biological systems.
Asymmetric misfit nanotubes: Chemical affinity outwits the entropy at high-temperature solid-state reactions
Authors: Sreedhara M. B. , Hettler Simon , Kaplan-Ashiri Ifat , Rechav Katya , Feldman Yishay , Enyashin Andrey , Houben Lothar , Arenal R. , Tenne Reshef
Published: August 2021

Significance

Materials with the absence of inversion symmetry are fundamentally interesting. The synthesis of such asymmetric structures remains a critical challenge in material science. Despite the large interest in Janus nanotubes, no report of synthesized nanotubes with asymmetric structure has been published. Here, we demonstrate a successful synthesis of a family of asymmetric misfit nanotubes LaS-Ta(S,Se)
2
and LaS-(TaSe
2
)
2
and flakes, in which Se atoms exclusively bind to Ta and La atoms bind to S. Theoretical calculations show that these materials possess very high electrical dipoles compared to simple Janus SeMoS layers. The lack of inversion and time-reversal symmetry in chiral asymmetric nanotubes can induce nonlinear physical properties such as bulk photovoltaics, superconducting Little–Parks oscillations, chiral selective photosynthesis, and so on.
Hyperspectral stimulated Raman scattering microscopy facilitates differentiation of low-grade and high-grade human prostate cancer
Authors: Chen Xun , Cui Sishan , Yan Shuai , Zhang Shuo , Fan Yu , Gong Yanqing , Zhou Liqun , Wang Ping , Yao Lin , Yue Shuhua
Published: August 2021

Histopathology currently acts as a gold standard for human prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis. However, the subjective nature of histopathology leads to inevitable discordance among pathologists. Specifically, the inter-observer discordance could be up to 40% for the differentiation between Gleason score 6 (low-grade) and 7 (high-grade) of PCa. According to clinical guidelines, patients with high-grade PCa need to be actively treated, while patients with low-grade PCa could undergo active surveillance due to its slowly growing feature. Therefore, differentiating high-grade and low-grade PCa is an urgent clinical need. By integrating stimulated Raman scattering microscopy and confocal Raman spectroscopy, our previous study found the aberrant cholesteryl ester (CE) accumulation in human PCa tissues. However, no significant difference in CE accumulation between the low-grade and high-grade PCa was found, primarily because the previous study only analyzed the composition of manually selected lipid droplets (LDs) without quantitative analysis of the whole field of view. Here, we employed hyperspectral stimulated Raman scattering (HSRS) microscopy to test the hypothesis of CE as a marker for differentiation of low-grade and high-grade human PCa. First, lipid, lipofuscin, and protein were quantitatively mapped in human prostate tissues based on HSRS imaging of C–H vibrational region and multivariate curve resolution analysis. Then, within the lipid channel, CE percentage and unsaturation level of LDs were quantitatively mapped according to the height ratio between Raman bands at 2870 and 2850 cm−1, and between Raman bands at 3006 and 2850 cm−1, respectively. In total of 6 normal prostate tissues, 9 low-grade and 9 high-grade PCa tissues from patients, we found lipofuscin accumulation in all the normal prostate but none in PCa. While all the high-grade PCa tissues had LD accumulation, only 3 low-grade PCa tissues had LD accumulation. Notably, among all the PCa tissues with LD accumulation, no significant difference in LD amount was found between low-grade and high-grade PCa. Fortunately, both CE percentage and unsaturation level of the LDs were significantly different between low-grade and high-grade PCa. Furthermore, it was shown that CE percentage could differentiate low-grade and high-grade PCa with high sensitivity and specificity. Taken together, our study may provide a new opportunity towards more accurate PCa diagnosis.
The Lawyer's Duty to Arbitrate in Good Faith and with Civility
Authors: Sheppard Audley
Published: August 2021

Van Vechten (Johnny) Veeder delivered the 2001 Goff Lecture in Hong Kong on the topic of ‘The Lawyer’s Duty to Arbitrate in Good Faith’. He was especially concerned that there should be a ‘level playing field’ for advocates who come from different jurisdictions and who are subject to different national deontological rules. His concerns were echoed and amplified by other leading voices. This led to the issue being addressed in guidelines drafted by some arbitral institutions and organisations (such as the LCIA, the IBA arbitration committee and ICCA). While not addressed in his Goff lecture, Veeder was also concerned that advocates should treat each other with civility. This article, written as a tribute to Veeder, explores the extent to which various ethical codes of conduct, changes in law firm culture, issues of mental wellbeing, and effective advocacy, require lawyers to treat each other with courtesy, respect and civility.
ABX464 Decreases the Total Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Reservoir and HIV Transcription Initiation in CD4+ T Cells From Antiretroviral Therapy–Suppressed Individuals Living With HIV
Authors: Moron-Lopez Sara , Bernal Silvia , Wong Joseph K , Martinez-Picado Javier , Yukl Steven A
Published: August 2021

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) intensification and disruption of latency have been suggested as strategies to eradicate HIV. ABX464 is a novel antiviral that inhibits HIV RNA biogenesis. We investigated its effect on HIV transcription and total and intact HIV DNA in CD4+ T cells from ART-suppressed participants enrolled in the ABIVAX-005 clinical trial (NCT02990325).

Methods

Peripheral CD4+ T cells were available for analysis from 9 ART-suppressed participants who were treated daily with 150 mg of ABX464 for 4 weeks. Total and intact HIV DNA and initiated, 5’elongated, unspliced, polyadenylated, and multiply-spliced HIV transcripts were quantified at weeks 0, 4, and 8 using ddPCR.

Results

We observed a significant decrease in total HIV DNA (P = .008, median fold change (mfc) = 0.8) and a lower median level of intact HIV DNA (P = not significant [n.s.], mfc = 0.8) after ABX464 treatment. Moreover, we observed a decrease in initiated HIV RNA per million CD4+ T cells and per provirus (P = .05, mfc = 0.7; P = .004, mfc = 0.5, respectively), a trend toward a decrease in the 5’elongated HIV RNA per provirus (P = .07, mfc = 0.5), and a lower median level of unspliced HIV RNA (P = n.s., mfc = 0.6), but no decrease in polyadenylated or multiply-spliced HIV RNA.

Conclusions

In this substudy, ABX464 had a dual effect of decreasing total HIV DNA (and possibly intact proviruses) and HIV transcription per provirus. To further characterize its specific mechanism of action, long-term administration of ABX464 should be studied in a larger cohort.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT02990325.
Vitamin D Concentrations in Infancy and the Risk of Tuberculosis Disease in Childhood: A Prospective Birth Cohort in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Martinez Leonardo , Ncayiyana Jabulani R , Goddard Elizabeth , Botha Maresa , Workman Lesley , Burd Tiffany , Myer Landon , Nicol Mark P , Zar Heather J
Published: August 2021

Background

Low vitamin D levels may increase the risk of tuberculosis disease; however, previous observational cohort studies showed variable results. We investigated the relationship between vitamin D levels in infancy and subsequent development of tuberculosis disease throughout childhood.

Methods

We enrolled pregnant women at 20–28 weeks’ gestation attending antenatal care in a periurban South African setting in the Drakenstein Child Health Study. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were measured in newborn infants aged 6–10 weeks. Children were followed prospectively for tuberculosis infection and disease using annual tuberculin skin testing, radiographic examinations, and microbiological diagnosis with GeneXpert, culture, and smear testing. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression was performed and HRs with 95% CIs were calculated.

Results

Children were followed for tuberculosis disease for a median of 7.2 years (IQR, 6.2–7.9). Among 744 children (<1% with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), 21% HIV-exposed without HIV), those who were vitamin D deficient in early infancy were not at increased risk of developing tuberculosis disease (adjusted HR, .8; 95% CI, .4–1.6). Infants in the lowest vitamin D concentration tertile were at similar risk of tuberculosis as the highest tertile (adjusted HR, .7; 95% CI, .4–1.4). Vitamin D deficiency was associated with tuberculin conversion ≤2 years of age at a <30-nmol/L (adjusted OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.2–3.2), but not <50-nmol/L (adjusted OR, 1.5; 95% CI, .8–2.9), cutoff.

Conclusions

In a setting with hyperendemic rates of tuberculosis, vitamin D concentrations in infancy did not predict tuberculosis disease at any point in childhood. However, very low vitamin D levels were associated with tuberculin conversion in young children.
Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol During Adolescence Reprograms the Nucleus Accumbens Transcriptome, Affecting Reward Processing, Impulsivity, and Specific Aspects of Cocaine Addiction-Like Behavior in a Sex-Dependent Manner
Authors: Orihuel Javier , Capellán Roberto , Roura-Martínez David , Ucha Marcos , Ambrosio Emilio , Higuera-Matas Alejandro
Published: August 2021

Background

Cannabis exposure during adolescence is associated with emotional and motivational alterations that may entail an enhanced risk of developing psychiatric disorders. In rodent models, exposure to cannabinoids during adolescence leads to increased self-administration of opiates and cocaine, however, the psychological and neural mechanisms and the sex-specificity of this phenomenon are largely unknown.

Methods

We exposed male and female adolescent rats to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and studied at adulthood the effects of such treatment on psychological processes related to reward, such as Pavlovian conditioned approach, Pavlovian to instrumental transfer, habit formation and waiting impulsivity. In the light of these data and given the involvement of the nucleus accumbens in the processes examined, we performed an RNASeq transcriptomic study and assessed cocaine addiction-like behavior.

Results

THC exposure increased goal-tracking (in males and females) and enhanced Pavlovian to instrumental transfer (especially in males) but did not affect habit formation. THC-exposed rats exhibited subtle, state-dependent changes in premature responding in the 2-CSRTT task. RNASeq data showed gene expression alterations in a marked sex-specific manner. While no effects were found on the acquisition of cocaine self-administration or punished drug-seeking, rats exposed to THC self-administered more cocaine under a progressive ratio schedule (males), had a higher rebound upon returning to continuous access to the drug (females) and showed reduced drug-seeking after 30 days of withdrawal (females).

Conclusions

Adolescent THC affects specific aspects of reward- (and cocaine-) guided behavior and the function of a key brain region mediating these effects, in a remarkable sex-specific manner.
‘Mini-Max’ knotless acetabular labrum repair: repair construct rationale and allocation in a consecutive case series with minimum 1-year clinical outcomes
Authors: Christoforetti John J , Bucci Gabriella , Nickel Beth , Singleton Steven B , McGovern Ryan P
Published: August 2021

To describe the ‘mini-Max’ approach to labrum repair using non-absorbable 2.4-mm knotless suture anchors and report objective clinical outcomes with a large single-surgeon cohort. Level 3 retrospective case series. A retrospective review was conducted to report the use and allocation of non-absorbable 2.4-mm knotless suture anchors during ‘mini-Max’ labral repair from 2015 to 2018. Descriptive analysis of the labral damage severity, size and number of anchors used to arthroscopically repair the acetabular labrum was performed. Paired-samples t-tests were performed to evaluate whether preoperative and 1-year follow-up patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were statistically significant. An analysis of variance was performed comparing PROs with categorized number of labral anchors. A total of 390 patients were queried in this study, with 330 (85%) diagnosed intraoperatively with acetabular labral tears. A total of 245 patients (137 females and 108 males) with a mean age of 30.1 ± 11.6 years (mean ± SD) at the time of surgery underwent ‘mini-Max’ labral refixation. Of the 245 labral tears, 88 (35.9%) were graded as mild, 113 (46.1%) as moderate and 44 (18.0%) as severe. Labral repairs required an average of 2.1 ± 0.67 anchors across all patients included. Forty-one repairs (16.7%) required one anchor, 139 (56.7%) required two anchors, 63 (25.7%) required three anchors and 2 (0.8%) required four anchors. Significant improvements were reported for all PROs (P ≤ .001) at a minimum of 1-year follow-up. Arthroscopic ‘mini-Max’ labral repair using non-absorbable knotless suture anchors is a safe and effective technique for improving the lives of patients suffering from symptomatic acetabular labrum tears.
Complexome profiling on the Chlamydomonas lpa2 mutant reveals insights into PSII biogenesis and new PSII associated proteins
Authors: Spaniol Benjamin , Lang Julia , Venn Benedikt , Schake Lara , Sommer Frederik , Mustas Matthieu , Geimer Stefan , Wollman Francis-André , Choquet Yves , Mühlhaus Timo , Schroda Michael
Published: August 2021

While the composition and function of the major thylakoid membrane complexes are well understood, comparatively little is known about their biogenesis. The goal of this work was to shed more light on the role of auxiliary factors in the biogenesis of photosystem II (PSII). Here we have identified the homolog of LOW PSII ACCUMULATION 2 (LPA2) in Chlamydomonas. A Chlamydomonas reinhardtii lpa2 mutant grew slower in low light, was hypersensitive to high light, and exhibited aberrant structures in thylakoid membrane stacks. Chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm) was reduced by 38%. Synthesis and stability of newly made PSII core subunits D1, D2, CP43, and CP47 were not impaired. However, complexome profiling revealed that in the mutant CP43 was reduced to ~23% and D1, D2, and CP47 to ~30% of wild type levels. Levels of PSI and the cytochrome b6f complex were unchanged, while levels of the ATP synthase were increased by ~29%. PSII supercomplexes, dimers, and monomers were reduced to ~7%, ~26%, and ~60% of wild type levels, while RC47 was increased ~6-fold and LHCII by ~27%. We propose that LPA2 catalyses a step during PSII assembly without which PSII monomers and further assemblies become unstable and prone to degradation. The LHCI antenna was more disconnected from PSI in the lpa2 mutant, presumably as an adaptive response to reduce excitation of PSI. From the co-migration profiles of 1734 membrane-associated proteins, we identified three novel putative PSII associated proteins with potential roles in regulating PSII complex dynamics, assembly, and chlorophyll breakdown.
OsATL38 mediates mono-ubiquitination of the 14-3-3 protein OsGF14d and negatively regulates the cold stress response in rice
Authors: Cui Li Hua , Min Hye Jo , Yu Seong Guan , Byun Mi Young , Oh Tae Rin , Lee Andosung , Yang Hee Woong , Kim Woo Taek
Published: August 2021

One of the major regulatory pathways that permits plants to convert an external stimulus into an internal cellular response within a short period of time is the ubiquitination pathway. In this study, OsATL38 was identified as a low temperature-induced gene that encodes a rice homolog of Arabidopsis Tóxicos en Levadura RING-type E3 ubiquitin (Ub) ligase, which was predominantly localized to the plasma membrane. OsATL38-overexpressing transgenic rice plants exhibited decreased tolerance to cold stress as compared with wild-type rice plants. In contrast, RNAi-mediated OsATL38 knockdown transgenic progeny exhibited markedly increased tolerance to cold stress relative to that of wild-type plants, which indicated a negative role of OsATL38 in response to cold stress. Yeast two-hybrid, in vitro pull-down, and co-immunoprecipitation assays revealed that OsATL38 physically interacted with OsGF14d, a rice 14-3-3 protein. An in vivo target ubiquitination assay indicated that OsGF14d was mono-ubiquitinated by OsATL38. osgf14d knockout mutant plants were more sensitive to cold stress than wild-type rice plants, indicating that OsGF14d is a positive factor in the response to cold stress. These results provide evidence that the RING E3 Ub ligase OsATL38 negatively regulates the cold stress response in rice via mono-ubiquitination of OsGF14d 14-3-3 protein.
Serum matrix metalloproteinase 7 and accelerated glomerular filtration rate decline in a general non-diabetic population
Authors: Enoksen Inger T , Svistounov Dmitri , Norvik Jon V , Stefansson Vidar T N , Solbu Marit D , Eriksen Bjørn O , Melsom Toralf
Published: August 2021

Background

Age-related reduction of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a major contributor to the global chronic kidney disease (CKD) epidemic. We investigated whether baseline serum levels of the pro-fibrotic matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), MMP7 and their inhibitor, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1), which mediates fibrosis development in aging animals, were associated with GFR decline in a general non-diabetic population.

Methods

In the Renal Iohexol Clearance Survey, we measured GFR using iohexol clearance in 1627 subjects aged 50–64 years without self-reported diabetes, kidney or cardiovascular disease. After a median of 5.6 years, 1324 had follow-up GFR measurements. Using linear mixed models and logistic regression analyses, we evaluated the association of MMP7, MMP2 and TIMP1 with the mean GFR decline rate, risk of accelerated GFR decline (defined as subjects with the 10% steepest GFR slopes: ≥1.8 mL/min/1.73 m2/year) and incident CKD [GFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and/or urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR) ≥3.0 mg/mmol].

Results

Higher MMP7 levels (per standard deviation increase of MMP7) were associated with steeper GFR decline rates [−0.23 mL/min/1.73 m2/year (95% confidence interval −0.34 to −0.12)] and increased risk of accelerated GFR decline and incident CKD [odds ratios 1.58 (1.30–1.93) and 1.45 (1.05–2.01), respectively, in a model adjusted for age, sex, baseline GFR, ACR and cardiovascular risk factors]. MMP2 and TIMP1 showed no association with GFR decline or incident CKD.

Conclusions

The pro-fibrotic biomarker MMP7, but not MMP2 or TIMP1, is associated with increased risk of accelerated GFR decline and incident CKD in middle-aged persons from the general population.
Monoclonal Antibodies: New Drugs, New Indications
Authors: Aschenbrenner Diane S.
Published: August 2021

The newest indications for monoclonal antibodies are as treatment for homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, advanced triple-negative breast cancer, advanced urothelial cancer, relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma, and non–small cell lung cancer with epidermal growth factor receptor exon 20 insertion mutations.
Minimum Nurse-to-Patient Ratios Improve Staffing, Patient Outcomes
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: August 2021

According to this study:

Minimum nurse-to-patient staffing ratios not only improve nurse staffing and patient outcomes but also yield a good return on investment.

Staffing improvements of one fewer patient per nurse led to improvements in mortality, readmissions, and length of stay.
Clinical features related to lymphatic metastasis in grade 3 endometroid endometrial cancer: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Qian , Shi Yue , Shao Wen-Yu , Liao Jiong-Bo , Luo Xue-Zhen , Chen Xiao-Jun , Wang Chao
Published: August 2021

Background

Endometrial cancer (EC) has been one of the most general cancers with respect to gynecological malignancies; however, there are debates on clinical strategies concerning treatments especially for patients with grade 3 (G3) endometroid endometrial cancer (EEC). Present study aimed to evaluate the lymphatic metastasis (LM) related factors and figure out the necessity of lymphadenectomy for G3 EEC patients.

Methods

From January 2009 to April 2019, 3751 EC patients were admitted to Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University. Clinical characteristics include age, grade, stage, and clinical pathological features. A total of 1235 EEC patients were involved in the multivariable analysis. Three hundred and eighty-one patients were involved in the survival analysis and the data attributed to sufficient follow-up information. Kaplan-Meier curve and log-rank test were utilized to analyze the survival rate.

Results

Among the 1235 EEC patients, 181 (14.7%) were categorized as G3 and 1054 (85.3%) were grade 1 to grade 2 (G1-2). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that lymphovascular space invasion, adnexal involvement, and cervical stroma involvement were independent risk factors of LM in G3 cohort with odds ratio 3.4, 5.8, and 8.9; 95% confidence interval 1.1–10.6, 1.5–22.4, and 2.8–28.0, respectively. LM rates increased from 3.3% (3/92) to 75% (9/12) for G3 EEC cohort as related factor numbers increased from one to three. There were no differences between G3 and G1-2 EEC in overall survival and progression free survival. Additionally, no survival advantage was observed for G3 EEC patients at early stage with different plans of adjuvant treatment.

Conclusions

For G3 EEC patients without other pathological positive factor, the LM rate is lower than those with other pathological positive factor. Survival analysis showed no difference between G3 cohort and G1-2 cohort. Also, different adjuvant treatments had no impact on the overall survival for G3 EEC patients.
When Technology Enters at Home
Authors: Asgari Parvaneh , Dehghan Nayeri Nahid , Bahramnezhad Fatemeh , Fattah Ghazi Samrand , Esmaeili Maryam
Published: August 2021

The number of patients with chronic diseases requiring invasive mechanical ventilation at home is increasing. Thus, identifying the challenges of this valuable type of care can be an elective step for achieving health-related goals. This study was conducted to determine the challenges faced by home health care providers. Three themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) hospital-based challenges with 2 subthemes: the family unpreparedness for home care and the lack of continuous education; (2) home health care agency challenges with 2 subthemes: home health care workers and the deficiency in organizational policies; and (3) economic challenges. Three themes of hospital-related challenges, home health care agency challenges, and economic challenges that emerged in the study showed that support from the insurance system, improvement of home care agency policies, and holistic care for patients through a multidisciplinary team approach are essential for addressing the current challenges of care for patients under invasive mechanical ventilation at home.
The Use of Personal Protective Equipment in a Biosafety Level 2 Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Hrdinová Natálie , Saibertová Simona , Pokorná Andrea
Published: August 2021

Adequate safety precautions and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in hospitalized patients with health care–associated infections (HAIs) are the most effective preventions in their spread. Observational study was conducted in one inpatient facility in the Czech Republic before the COVID-19 pandemic (April 2019 to February 2020). Data were analyzed using Minitab at a significance level of .05. The execution of preventative measures in patients hospitalized with a HAI (n = 44) and the use of PPE by health care workers (n = 514) have been observed. The presence of defined PPE items usage differs on the basis of the department type (P = .0004). The correctness of PPE use differs on the basis of profession (P < .001), hand disinfection before PPE use (P < .001), use of all PPE (P < .001), and hand hygiene after PPE use (P < .001). General nurses had a higher observed frequency of hand hygiene (53.3%) than physicians (42.4%). The correct order of operations when using PPE differs on the basis of the department type (P < .001) and their architecture arrangement (open, semiopen, box) (P < .001). Critical preventative measures shortage was found at all units. Insufficient execution of the correct procedure of actions in the use of PPE was observed among health care workers. The best results have been observed among nurses.
Nurses Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Toward Pain Assessment and Management of Patients Unable to Communicate Verbally
Authors: Younis Mohammad Bani
Published: August 2021

Critically ill patients usually experience a significant level of pain during rest or during routine care such as turning, wound care, and endotracheal suctioning. Pain assessment is the cornerstone of pain management. Adequate pain assessment and management are major responsibilities of critical care nurses. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward pain assessment and management of the intensive care unit (ICU) patients who are unable to communicate verbally. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used in this study. The study was conducted at ICUs in 5 hospitals from the north, middle, and south areas of Jordan. A self-administered questionnaire developed by Rose was used in this study. The most important finding in this study was that a large number of ICU nurses do not use assessment tools to evaluate the level of pain in patients who are unable to communicate verbally. Moreover, the nurses have inadequate knowledge about pain assessment and management. As perceived by the nurses, “restlessness” was the highest rated routine indicator of pain (25.1%), followed by “not following commands” (24%). Half of the participants (50%) answered that nurses were the persons who provide the most accurate rating of pain intensity. However, the participants showed positive attitude toward pain assessment and management.
The mineralocorticoid receptor blocker spironolactone lowers plasma interferon-γ and interleukin-6 in patients with type 2 diabetes and treatment-resistant hypertension
Authors: Thangaraj Sai Sindhu , Oxlund Christina Stolzenburg , Fonseca Micaella Pereira Da , Svenningsen Per , Stubbe Jane , Palarasah Yaseelan , Ketelhuth Daniel F.J. , Jacobsen Ib. Abildgaard , Jensen Boye L.
Published: August 2021

Background:

The mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist spironolactone lowers blood pressure in patients with resistant hypertension despite antihypertensive treatment with angiotensin-converting inhibitors (ACEi) and angiotensin-II receptor blockers (ARB). In preclinical studies, spironolactone suppresses pro-hypertensive interleukin 17A (IL-17A).

Objectives:

Plasma samples were analysed from a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial with spironolactone given to patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and resistant hypertension on three antihypertensive drugs. We tested the hypothesis that spironolactone-induced antihypertensive effects are associated with suppression of IL-17A and related cytokines.

Methods:

Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-17A, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6, IL-1β and IL-10 were assessed in plasma with immunoassay in samples before and after 16 weeks of treatment with placebo or spironolactone (12.5-25–50 mg/day).

Results:

Spironolactone significantly reduced plasma IFN-γ and IL-6 while IL-17A, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 were unchanged. IL-6 was more sensitive to higher doses of spironolactone. At baseline, serum aldosterone correlated positively with diastolic night blood pressure. Urine albumin/creatinine-ratios correlated positively with plasma IL-6 at baseline. There were no relations between aldosterone and cytokine concentrations at baseline; between cytokine concentration and blood pressure at baseline; and between cytokine concentration decrease and blood pressure decrease, except for IFN-γ, after treatment. The spironolactone-induced elevation in plasma potassium related inversely to blood pressure but not to changes in cytokines. In macrophages in vitro, spironolactone suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and IL-10 levels.

Conclusion:

The antihypertensive action of spironolactone in resistant hypertensive patients is associated with suppressed IFN-γ and IL-6 and not IL-17A. Spironolactone exerts anti-inflammatory actions in vivo on macrophages and T-cells.
Practices and Reflections of Experienced, Expert Early Childhood Coaches
Authors: Thompson Paula J. , Marvin Christine A. , Knoche Lisa L.
Published: August 2021

The qualities and practices of two experienced, expert early childhood (EC) coaches, working with Early Head Start teachers, were explored through analyses of 24 audio-recorded EC coach–teacher conversations and coach interview data. Audio-recordings from 2 years of coaching sessions were reviewed, identifying the coaches' use of specific conversation behaviors, modified from Early Childhood Coaching Conversations (ECCC; Knoche & Bainter, 2012). Coaches used all 12 ECCC behaviors. Conversational behaviors associated with establishing relationships and sharing observations were used at similar rates in beginning (first year) and established (second year) coaching relationships. Coaches in established relationships however used higher rates of behaviors associated with acknowledging and affirming teachers' feelings and behaviors, and planning next steps. EC coaches' reflections on behaviors they used in coaching sessions with the teachers provided an opportunity to further examine EC coaching principles and practices. Interviews revealed coaches' perceived benefits of coaching, as well as a value in advancing relationships, and using key conversation behaviors, documentation, and a structured coaching approach. A focus on evidenced-based strategies teachers have been previously trained to use in their work with at-risk infants, toddlers, and their families was important in the coaches' work with teachers.
Effects of opioid rotation to buprenorphine/naloxone on pain, pain thresholds, pain tolerance, and quality of life in patients with chronic pain and opioid use disorder
Authors: Veldman Stijn , van Beek Maria , van Rijswijk Steffie , Ellerbroek Hannah , Timmerman Hans , van der Wal Selina , Steegers Monique , Schellekens Arnt
Published: August 2021

Long-term opioid use in patients with chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) can lead to opioid use disorder (OUD) and has been associated with hyperalgesia and reduced quality of life (QoL). Studies suggest antihyperalgesic properties of buprenorphine, and buprenorphine or naloxone (BuNa) has shown beneficial effects on QoL in patients with OUD without CNCP. This study investigated the added value of BuNa in patients with CNCP with OUD on self-reported pain, pain thresholds, pain tolerance, and QoL. In the current study, 43 outpatients with CNCP and OUD were included for inpatient conversion from full μ-receptor agonist opioids to BuNa. Self-reported pain, pain thresholds, pain tolerance, and QoL were determined at baseline and after 2 months of follow-up, using, respectively, a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS-pain and VAS-QoL), quantitative sensory testing, and EuroQol-5 dimensions. In total, 37 participants completed the protocol, and their data were analyzed. The mean VAS-pain score decreased from 51.3 to 37.2 (27.5%, F = 3.3; P = 0.044), whereas the pressure pain threshold and electric pain threshold or tolerance increased after substitution (F = 7.8; P = 0.005 and F = 44.5; P < 0.001, respectively), as well as QoL (EuroQol-5 dimensions questionnaire: F = 10.4; P = 0.003 and VAS-QoL: F = 4.4; P = 0.043). We found that conversion of full μ-receptor agonists to BuNa, in patients with CNCP with OUD, was accompanied with lower self-reported pain, higher pain thresholds, higher pain tolerance, and improved QoL. Despite several study limitations, these data suggest that BuNa might be of value in patients with CNCP with OUD. Future studies should investigate long-term effects of BuNa in randomized trials.
A Comparison of Anticoagulation Strategies in Veno-venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Shah Aakash , Pasrija Chetan , Kronfli Anthony , Essien Eno-Obong , Zhou Ya , Brigante Francis , Bittle Gregory , Menaker Jay , Herr Daniel , Mazzeffi Michael A. , Deatrick Kristopher B. , Kon Zachary N.
Published: August 2021

Bleeding remains a major source of morbidity associated with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO). Moreover, there remains significant controversy, and a paucity of data regarding the ideal anticoagulation strategy for VV-ECMO patients. All patients undergoing isolated, peripheral VV-ECMO between January 2009 and December 2014 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. Patients (n = 123) were stratified into one of three sequential eras of anticoagulation strategies: activated clotting time (ACT: 160–180 seconds, n = 53), high-partial thromboplastin time (H-PTT: 60–80 seconds, n = 25), and low-PTT (L-PTT: 45–55 seconds, n = 25) with high-flow (>4 L/min). Pre-ECMO APACHE II scores, SOFA scores, and Murray scores were not significantly different between the groups. Patients in the L-PTT group required less red blood cell units on ECMO than the ACT or H-PTT group (2.1 vs. 1.3 vs. 0.9; p < 0.001) and patients in the H-PTT and L-PTT group required less fresh frozen plasma than the ACT group (0.33 vs. 0 vs. 0; p = 0.006). Overall, major bleeding events were significantly lower in the L-PTT group than in the ACT and H-PTT groups. There was no difference in thrombotic events. In this single-institution experience, a L-PTT, high-flow strategy on VV-ECMO was associated with fewer bleeding and no difference in thrombotic events than an ACT or H-PTT strategy.
Implementation and Evaluation of Gradient Strip Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing in US Public Health Laboratories to Respond to Resistant Gonorrhea
Authors: Raphael Brian H. , Pham Cau D. , Sharpe Samera , Mauk Kerry , Harvey Alesia , Khubbar Manjeet , Triplett Laura , Soge Olusegun O. , Denny Michael , Palavecino Elizabeth L. , Finney Rose , Olsen Aaron , Carlson Jonathan , St. Cyr Sancta B. , Schlanger Karen , Kersh Ellen N. ,   for the Strengthening the US Response to Resistant Gonorrhea Working Group
Published: August 2021

Background

Gradient strip antimicrobial susceptibility testing using Etest is conducted by local public health jurisdictions participating in the Strengthening the US Response to Resistant Gonorrhea (SURRG) program to inform public health responses to resistant gonorrhea. Proficiency testing results across the participating laboratories were analyzed and a comparison of Etest with the agar dilution method was conducted.

Methods

Laboratories participating in SURRG performed Etest for azithromycin (AZM), cefixime (CFX), and ceftriaxone (CRO). Concurrence between minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) obtained with Etest versus the agar dilution method using corresponding isolates was defined as ±1 double dilution. Specific levels of reduced susceptibility were termed “alerts” and included isolates with the following MICs: ≥2.0 μg/mL (AZM), ≥0.25 μg/mL (CFX), and ≥0.125 μg/mL (CRO). Categorical (alert/nonalert) agreement was calculated for MICs determined using Etest and agar dilution methods.

Results

Strengthening the US Response to Resistant Gonorrhea laboratories had high proficiency testing scores (≥98%) and low levels of interlaboratory variations in MICs. The overall concurrence of MICs (essential agreement) determined using agar dilution, and Etest was 96% (CRO), 96% (CFX), and 95% (AZM). Depending on the antibiotic tested, between 27% and 66% of isolates with alert MICs determined by Etest also had alert MICs using the reference agar dilution methodology; however, most of these alert MICs were detected at threshold levels.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that MICs produced by SURRG laboratories using Etest have a high level of concurrence with agar dilution. Although confirmation of specific alert MICs varied, Etest facilities rapid detection and response to emerging resistant gonorrhea.