bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes of patients with cutaneous melanoma toward prognostic testing using the 31‐gene expression profile test
Authors: Ahmed Kelli , Siegel Jennifer J. , Morgan‐Linnell Sonia K. , LiPira Kyleigh
Published: August 2022

Objective

Although most patients diagnosed with early‐stage cutaneous melanoma (CM) have excellent outcomes, because of the large number diagnosed each year, many will experience recurrence or death. Prognostic testing for CM using the 31‐gene expression profile (31‐GEP) test can benefit patients by helping guide risk‐appropriate treatment and surveillance plans. We sought to evaluate patients' attitudes toward prognostic testing with the 31‐GEP and assess whether patients experience decision regret about having 31‐GEP testing.

Methods

A 43‐question survey was distributed by the Melanoma Research Foundation in June–August 2021 to CM patients enrolled in their database. Patients were asked questions regarding their decision to undergo 31‐GEP testing and the extent to which they experienced decision regret using a validated set of Decision Regret Scale questions.

Results

We analyzed responses from patients diagnosed in 2014 or later (n  = 120). Of these, 28 had received 31‐GEP testing. Most respondents (n  = 108, 90%) desired prognostic information when diagnosed. Of those who received 31‐GEP testing, most felt the results were useful (n  = 22 out of 24) and had regret scores significantly less than neutral regret, regardless of their test results (Class 1: p  < 0.001; Class 2: p  = 0.036). Further, decision regret scores were not significantly different between patients who received a Class 1 31‐GEP result and those who received a Class 2 result (mean Class 1 = 1.39 and mean Class 2 = 1.90, p  = 0.058).

Conclusions

Most newly diagnosed CM patients desired prognostic information about their tumors. Patients who received 31‐GEP testing felt it was useful and did not regret their decision to undergo 31‐GEP testing.
Cerebral embolic protection and severity of stroke following transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Isogai Toshiaki , Vanguru Husitha Reddy , Krishnaswamy Amar , Agrawal Ankit , Spilias Nikolaos , Shekhar Shashank , Saad Anas M. , Verma Beni Rai , Puri Rishi , Reed Grant W. , Popović Zoran B. , Unai Shinya , Yun James J. , Uchino Ken , Kapadia Samir R.
Published: August 2022

Background

The cerebral embolic protection (CEP) device captures embolic debris during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, the impact of CEP on stroke severity following TAVR remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to examine whether CEP was associated with reduced severity of stroke following TAVR.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 2839 consecutive patients (mean age: 79.2 ± 9.5 years, females: 41.5%) who underwent transfemoral TAVR at our institution between 2013 and 2020. We categorized patients into Sentinel CEP users and nonusers. Neuroimaging data were reviewed and the final diagnosis of a cerebrovascular event was adjudicated by a neurologist blinded to the CEP use or nonuse. We compared the incidence and severity (assessed by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS]) of stroke through 72 h post‐TAVR or discharge between the two groups using stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) of propensity scores.

Results

Of the eligible patients, 1802 (63.5%) received CEP during TAVR and 1037 (36.5%) did not. After adjustment for patient characteristics by stabilized IPTW, the rate of overall stroke was numerically lower in CEP users than in CEP nonusers, but the difference did not reach statistical significance (0.49% vs. 1.18%, p = 0.064). However, CEP users had significantly lower rates of moderate‐or‐severe stroke (NIHSS ≥ 6: 0.11% vs. 0.69%, p = 0.013) and severe stroke (NIHSS ≥ 15: 0% vs. 0.29%, p = 0.046). Stroke following CEP use (n = 8), compared with stroke following CEP nonuse (n = 15), tended to carry a lower NIHSS (median [IQR], 4.0 [2.0–7.0] vs. 7.0 [4.5–19.0], p = 0.087). Four (26.7%) out of 15 patients with stroke following CEP nonuse died within 30 days, with no death after stroke following CEP use.

Conclusions

CEP use may be associated with attenuated severity of stroke despite no significant difference in overall stroke incidence compared with CEP nonuse. This finding is considered hypothesis‐generating and needs to be confirmed in large prospective studies.
Intravascular lithotripsy in chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention: Insights from the PROGRESS‐CTO registry
Authors: Kostantinis Spyridon , Simsek Bahadir , Karacsonyi Judit , Davies Rhian E. , Benton Stewart , Nicholson William , Rinfret Stephane , Jaber Wissam A. , Raj Leah , Sandesara Pratik B. , Alaswad Khaldoon , Basir Mir Babar , Megaly Michael , Khatri Jaikirshan J. , Young Laura D. , Jaffer Farouc A. , Abi Rafeh Nidal , Patel Mitul P. , Kerrigan Jimmy L. , Haddad Elias V. , Dattilo Phil , Sandoval Yader , Schimmel Daniel R. , Sheikh Abdul M. , ElGuindy Ahmed M. , Goktekin Omer , Mastrodemos Olga C. , Rangan Bavana V. , Burke M. Nicholas , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: August 2022

Background

The use of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) in chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has received limited study.

Methods

We analyzed the baseline clinical and angiographic characteristics and procedural outcomes of 82 CTO PCIs that required IVL at 14 centers between 2020 and 2022.

Results

During the study period, IVL was used in 82 of 3301 (2.5%) CTO PCI procedures (0.4% in 2020 and 7% in 2022; p for trend < 0.001). Mean patient age was 69 ± 11 years and 79% were men. The prevalence of hypertension (95%), diabetes mellitus (62%), and prior PCI (61%) was high. The most common target vessel was the right coronary artery (54%), followed by the left circumflex (23%). The mean J‐CTO and PROGRESS‐CTO scores were 2.8 ± 1.1 and 1.3 ± 1.0, respectively. Antegrade wiring was the final successful crossing strategy in 65% and the retrograde approach was used in 22%. IVL was used in 10% of all heavily calcified lesions and 11% of all balloon undilatable lesions. The 3.5 mm lithotripsy balloon was the most commonly used balloon (28%). The mean number of pulses per lithotripsy run was 33 ± 32 and the median duration of lithotripsy was 80  (interquartile range: 40−103) seconds. Technical and procedural success was achieved in 77 (94%) and 74 (90%) cases, respectively. Two (2.4%) Ellis Class 2 perforations occurred after IVL use and were managed conservatively.

Conclusion

IVL is increasingly being used in CTO PCI with encouraging outcomes.
Application of AgPt Nanoshells in Direct Methanol Fuel Cells: Experimental and Theoretical Insights of Design Electrocatalysts over Methanol Crossover Effect
Authors: Rangel de Melo Rodrigues Makson , Machado Ferreira Rayse , dos Santos Pereira Fellipe , Anchieta e Silva Felipe , César Azevedo Silva Augusto , Aguilar Vitorino Hector , de Jesus Gomes Varela Júnior Jaldyr , Atsushi Tanaka Auro , Aurélio Suller Garcia Marco , Silva Rodrigues Thenner
Published: August 2022

Based on theoretical simulations, the best design for obtaining AgPt nanostructures (nanoshells with hollow interior) was unraveled that could exhibit methanol tolerance for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) that occurs during direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) operation. A theoretical investigation of Pt@Ag and Ag@Pt core‐shell nanoparticles and AgPt nanoshells′ interaction with oxygen and methanol revealed that the oxygen interaction is significantly more favorable on AgPt nanoshells′ surface, hindering the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) due to the random arrangement of Ag and Pt atoms. Experimentally, the nanoshells were prepared by a galvanic substitution and immobilized them onto silica, and the material was finely understood by associating electrochemical and physicochemical studies. Cyclic voltammetry showed the reduction and oxidation processes of the catalyst‘s species; however, XPS precisely showed that significant amounts of oxidized species were present (60.5 % of Ag0 and 39.5 % of Ag+, and 55.1 % of Pt0 and 44.9 % of Pt+2), which could affect the performance of the material. Indeed, the catalyst showed an excellent performance to ORR; the system yielded a 4‐electron ORR mechanism with just 1.0 wt.% Pt loading, with significant stability after 1000 runs. In addition, Koutecky‐Levich and Tafel plots assisted in understanding better the mechanism on the catalyst‘s surface, suggesting a first‐electron transfer for the rate‐determining step. Also, the catalyst resistance to the methanol crossover, theoretically simulated and predicted, was tested, showing remarkable tolerance for the alcohol up to a concentration of 2 M. Hence, a cathode catalyst with improved selectivity, low metal loading, high stability, and easy preparation was obtained.
Evaluation of TEMPO‐NH2 and Oxalate Oxidase Enzyme for Complete Ethylene Glycol Oxidation
Authors: Antonio Jesimiel Glaycon R. , Honorio Franco Jefferson , Zaghetto de Almeida Paula , de Lourdes Maria , Polizeli T. M. , Minteer Shelley D. , De Andrade Adalgisa R.
Published: August 2022

This study describes the development of an ethylene glycol (EG) biofuel cell that combines the organic catalyst 4‐amino‐TEMPO (TEMPO‐NH2) and the enzyme oxalate oxidase (OxOx) in solution for complete EG oxidation. Cyclic voltammetric curves recorded in the presence of EG showed that the hybrid TEMPO‐NH2/OxOx catalyst provided 1.2 higher current density than the TEMPO‐NH2 catalyst. Chronoamperometric assays after successive EG injections and long‐term electrolysis at a fixed potential of 0.75 V (vs Ag/AgCl) showed that the hybrid TEMPO‐NH2/OxOx catalyst in the presence of EG promoted 14 % and 58 % increase in the current obtained with the TEMPO‐NH2 catalyst, respectively. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) results confirmed that TEMPO‐NH2 and OxOx respectively acted on EG oxidation and C−C bond cleavage, leading to complete EG oxidation, harvesting all 10 of the EG electrons and high catalytic activity.
Determination of metal contents in aromatic herbs and spices from Algeria: Chemometric approach
Authors: Kachbi Abdelmalek , Arezoug Djoumad , Kara‐Abdelfettah Dalila , Benamor Mohamed , Senhadji‐Kebiche Ounissa
Published: August 2022

Trace metals (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, Sr, and Zn) in acid digests of some aromatic herbs and spices (basil, fennel, laurel, mint, oregano, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, cinnamon, coriander, and cumin) were determined quantitatively using ICP‐AES method. The highest concentrations (μg g−1 dry matter) of each of the 11 investigated metals were found as follows: As (0.42) and Pb (1.6) in rosemary samples; Cd (0.1) in basil; Co (0.62), Cu (12.13), and Zn (52.26) in oregano; Cr (2.95) and Mg (3110) in fennel, Fe (494) and Ni (7.61) in cumin; Mn (192) in black pepper; and finally Sr (60.68) in mint. Some chemometric techniques such as principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) were used on metallic concentrations data in an attempt to classify these aromatic herbs and spices. The unsupervised pattern recognition PCA and HCA models gave the same result about similarities and differences between the studied plant samples, and five clusters of similar aromatic herbs and spices samples were formed. In order to verify the results of this clustering, we used a supervised pattern recognition method called partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA). Classes were groups or clusters of similar plants obtained previously. A hierarchical model builder (HMB) based on four PLS‐DA models was used to simultaneous determination of the class of each sample. It was found that all samples were correctly classified by PLS‐DA in their original groups as determined by PCA and HCA.
Iron controls T helper cell pathogenicity by promoting glucose metabolism in autoimmune myopathy
Authors: Lai Yimei , Zhao Siyuan , Chen Binfeng , Huang Yuefang , Guo Chaohuan , Li Mengyuan , Ye Baokui , Wang Shuyi , Zhang Hui , Yang Niansheng
Published: August 2022

Background

T helper cells in patients with autoimmune disease of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are characterized with the proinflammatory phenotypes. The underlying mechanisms remain unknown.

Methods

RNA sequencing was performed for differential expression genes. Gene expression in CD4+ T‐cells was confirmed by quantitative real‐time PCR. CD4+ T‐cells from IIM patients or healthy controls were evaluated for metabolic activities by Seahorse assay. Glucose uptake, T‐cell proliferation and differentiation were evaluated and measured by flow cytometry. Human CD4+ T‐cells treated with iron chelators or Pfkfb4 siRNA were measured for glucose metabolism, proliferation and differentiation. Signalling pathway activation was evaluated by western blot and flow cytometry. Mouse model of experimental autoimmune myositis (EAM) were induced and treated with iron chelator or rapamycin. CD4+ T‐cell differentiation and muscle inflammation in the EAM mice were evaluated.

Results

RNA‐sequencing analysis revealed that iron was involved with glucose metabolism and CD4+ T‐cell differentiation. IIM patient‐derived CD4+ T‐cells showed enhanced glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration, which was inhibited by iron chelation. CD4+ T‐cells from patients with IIM was proinflammatory and iron chelation suppressed the differentiation of interferon gamma (IFNγ)‐ and interleukin (IL)‐17A‐producing CD4+ T‐cells, which resulted in an increased percentage of regulatory T (Treg) cells. Mechanistically, iron promoted glucose metabolism by an upregulation of PFKFB4 through AKT‐mTOR signalling pathway. Notably, the knockdown of Pfkfb4 decreased glucose influx and thus suppressed the differentiation of IFNγ‐ and IL‐17A‐producing CD4+ T‐cells. In vivo, iron chelation inhibited mTOR signalling pathway and reduced PFKFB4 expression in CD4+ T‐cells, resulting in reduced proinflammatory IFNγ‐ and IL‐17A‐producing CD4+ T‐cells and increased Foxp3+ Treg cells, leading to ameliorated muscle inflammation.

Conclusions

Iron directs CD4+ T‐cells into a proinflammatory phenotype by enhancing glucose metabolism. Therapeutic targeting of iron metabolism should have the potential to normalize glucose metabolism in CD4+ T‐cells and reverse their proinflammatory phenotype in IIM.
Promote a campus culture where students with disabilities feel they belong
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2022

Michelle Heinig Resnick, M.A., Ed.M., observed that in higher education, most of the focus about disability is on compliance. There isn't much discussion of culture. Professionals tend to view disability through the medical model, rather than seeing it as a point of identity.
Review research, recommendations on student mental health effects of the pandemic
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2022

Most disability services providers are reporting an increase in students with mental health disorders since the start of the pandemic. In their article “The COVID‐19 pandemic and students’ mental health” in New Directions for Student Services, Krista M. Soria, Bonnie Horgos, and Brayden J. Roberts outline the prevalence of these disorders among students during the pandemic and provide recommendations for campuses to support students’ mental health.
Termination
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2022

An overview of the key topics faced by disability services providers with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Relationship between brook charr (Salvelinus fontinalis) eDNA concentration and angling data in structured wildlife areas
Authors: Gaudet‐Boulay Maxime , García‐Machado Erik , Laporte Martin , Yates Matthew , Bougas Bérénice , Hernandez Cécilia , Côté Guillaume , Gilbert Amélie , Bernatchez Louis
Published: August 2022

Accurate management of exploited fish populations is essential to ensure their long‐term sustainability. The use of eDNA as a tool for providing information on population relative abundance offers much potential although few examples in a fishery context have been documented. In this study, we collected 600 water samples from 30 lakes in Québec (Canada) to document the relationship between brook charr (Salvelinus fontinalis) angling data and their lake's eDNA concentration. Model selection with angling data and environmental parameters was used to find the best predictive model for eDNA concentration. We found a strong correlation between the average fish density from current and previous years (fish harvested/ha, adj. R2 = 0.76) with the mean eDNA concentration among lakes, supporting the growing trends in the literature. We observed very similar levels of correlation either when eDNA and angling data were from the same year or different years. We also found a pronounced inter‐year difference in lakes' eDNA quantity measured in 2019 and 2020. We hypothesize that the main drivers for this difference were inter‐seasonal variation including water temperature and associated variation in fish behavior. These results support the usefulness of eDNA as a quantitative tool for exploited fish populations.
Electrostatic Interaction‐directed Construction of Hierarchical Nanostructured Carbon Composite with Dual Electrical Conductive Networks for Zinc‐ion Hybrid Capacitors with Ultrastability
Authors: Leng Changyu , Zhao Zongbin , Wang Xuzhen , Fedoseeva Yuliya V. , Bulusheva Lyubov G. , Okotrub Alexander V. , Xiao Jian , Qiu Jieshan
Published: August 2022

Metal–organic framework (MOF)‐derived carbon composites have been considered as the promising materials for energy storage. However, the construction of MOF‐based composites with highly controllable mode via the liquid–liquid synthesis method has a great challenge because of the simultaneous heterogeneous nucleation on substrates and the self‐nucleation of individual MOF nanocrystals in the liquid phase. Herein, we report a bidirectional electrostatic generated self‐assembly strategy to achieve the precisely controlled coatings of single‐layer nanoscale MOFs on a range of substrates, including carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene oxide (GO), MXene, layered double hydroxides (LDHs), MOFs, and SiO2. The obtained MOF‐based nanostructured carbon composite exhibits the hierarchical porosity (Vmeso/Vmicro: 2.4), ultrahigh N content of 12.4 at.% and “dual electrical conductive networks.” The assembled aqueous zinc‐ion hybrid capacitor (ZIC) with the prepared nanocarbon composite as a cathode shows a high specific capacitance of 236 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, great rate performance of 98 F g−1 at 100 A g−1, and especially, an ultralong cycling stability up to 230 000 cycles with the capacitance retention of 90.1%. This work develops a repeatable and general method for the controlled construction of MOF coatings on various functional substrates and further fabricates carbon composites for ZICs with ultrastability.
Base‐Mediated C4‐Selective C−H‐Sulfonylation of Pyridine**
Authors: Friedrich Marius , Manolikakes Georg
Published: August 2022

The direct regioselective C−H‐functionalization of simple, unfunctionalized pyridines is considered a long‐standing challenge in heterocyclic chemistry. Herein, we report a novel one‐pot protocol for the C4‐selective sulfonylation of pyridines via triflic anhydride (Tf2O) activation, base‐mediated addition of a sulfinic acid salt, and subsequent elimination/re‐aromatization. Contrary to previous approaches employing tailored blocking groups, positional selectivity can be controlled by usingN‐methylpiperidine as simple, readily available external base. This method offers a highly modular and streamlined access to C4‐sulfonylated pyridines.
Protein adsorption on a nanoparticle with a nanostructured surface
Authors: Canpolat Cetin , Tatlisoz Mehmet Melih
Published: August 2022

In the present study, the adsorption of a protein on a nanoparticle with a nanostructured surface, which is created using successively patterned Gaussian pillars (GPs), is simulated by considering the charge regulation within the electrical double layer of a silica nanoparticle (NP). Namely, the mathematical models for the adsorption mechanism, such as classical Langmuir model, extended Langmuir model, and two‐state model, are coupled with charge regulation model. By this means, size and pH variables are able to included to the calculations. Moreover, free space, surface curvature, and conformational changes are also taken into account. For systematic investigation, the solution's pH, surface charge density, initial protein concentration, electrostatic charge of the protein, and the diameter of the spherical NP are varied. As a result, the vital properties of a nanoparticle, such as protonation/deprotonation, polarization, topography, and morphology, are considered in the current simulations. The surface charge density and surface chemistry change with NP and GP sizes. The present results reveal that the protein adsorption on an NP with a smooth surface reaches a faster complete surface coverage than an NP with a nanostructured surface. Both states of conformational changes are also affected by the presence of the GP.
Enhanced Hydrogen Production during Electro‐Oxidation of Ethanol using Plasmonic Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Mahanta Jiwajyoti , Basak Mitali , Parmar Prathu Raja , Saha Devi Rupa , Mandal Tapas Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar
Published: August 2022

Electrochemical reforming of alkaline ethanol through nonfossil fuel resources is an attractive single‐step method at room temperature and pressure for hydrogen production. Herein, solar panels are used to generate and allow low‐voltage current to flow into screen‐printed electrodes with milliscale spacing to produce a high‐intensity electric field, engendering electrolysis of alkaline ethanol into H2. The introduction of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) with diameters between 20 and 100 nm into the electrolyte results in an enhanced capacity of the electrolyzer to produce H2 under an illumination equivalent to solar irradiance. The plasmonic Au NPs facilitate faster electro‐oxidation of the alkaline ethanol. The solar irradiance serves dual purposes—generation of a high‐intensity electric field in the electrolyte and plasmonic effects for a faster rate of H2 production. The results show current densities as high as 135, 240, and 118 A m−2 with independent variations in sizes of Au NPs, wavelength of solar radiation, and irradiance of light, respectively. Furthermore, a high Faradaic efficiency of 82% is obtained for the electrolyte solution containing Au NPs of size 50 nm. Integration of multiple screen‐printed electrodes shows further enhancement of H2 throughput, leaving a niche for the prototype to scale‐up H2 production.
Differential role of neuronal glucose and PFKFB3 in memory formation during development
Authors: Cruz Emmanuel , Bessières Benjamin , Magistretti Pierre , Alberini Cristina M.
Published: August 2022

The consumption of glucose in the brain peaks during late childhood; yet, whether and how glucose metabolism is differentially regulated in the brain during childhood compared to adulthood remains to be understood. In particular, it remains to be determined how glucose metabolism is involved in behavioral activations such as learning. Here we show that, compared to adult, the juvenile rat hippocampus has significantly higher mRNA levels of several glucose metabolism enzymes belonging to all glucose metabolism pathways, as well as higher levels of the monocarboxylate transporters MCT1 and MCT4 and the glucose transporters endothelial‐GLUT1 and GLUT3 proteins. Furthermore, relative to adults, long‐term episodic memory formation in juvenile animals requires significantly higher rates of aerobic glycolysis and astrocytic‐neuronal lactate coupling in the hippocampus. Only juvenile but not adult long‐term memory formation recruits GLUT3, neuronal 6‐phosphofructo‐2‐kinase/fructose‐2,6‐biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) and more efficiently engages glucose in the hippocampus. Hence, compared to adult, the juvenile hippocampus distinctively regulates glucose metabolism pathways, and formation of long‐term memory in juveniles involves differential neuronal glucose metabolism mechanisms.
Extracellular S100B inhibits A‐type voltage‐gated potassium currents and increases L‐type voltage‐gated calcium channel activity in dopaminergic neurons
Authors: Bancroft Eric A. , De La Mora Martha , Pandey Gauri , Zarate Sara M. , Srinivasan Rahul
Published: August 2022

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with an increase in secreted S100B within the midbrain and cerebrospinal fluid. In addition, S100B overexpression in mice accelerates the loss of substantia nigra pars compacta dopaminergic (DA) neurons, suggesting a role for this protein in PD pathogenesis. We found that in the mouse SNc, S100B labeled astrocytic processes completely envelop the somata of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expressing DA neurons only in male mice. These data suggest that an increase in S100B secretion by astrocytes within the midbrain could play a role in DA dysfunction during early PD. We therefore asked if acute exposure to extracellular S100B alters the activity of identified TH expressing DA neurons in primary mouse midbrain cultures. Acute exposure to 50 pM S100B specifically inhibited A‐type voltage‐gated potassium currents in TH+, but not TH− neurons. This was accompanied by ~2‐fold increases in the frequency of both intrinsic firing, as well as L‐type voltage‐gated calcium channel (VGCC)‐mediated calcium fluxes only in TH+ neurons. Further, exposure to 100 μM 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP), an A‐type voltage‐gated potassium channel inhibitor, mimicked the S100B mediated increase in intrinsic firing and L‐type VGCC‐mediated calcium fluxes in TH+ neurons. Taken together, our finding that extracellular S100B alters the activity of native DA neurons via an inhibition of A‐type voltage‐gated potassium channels has important implications for understanding the pathophysiology of early PD.
Recurrence risk stratification and treatment strategies of patients with stage IVa‐b hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Heng Yu , Xu Chengzhi , Lin Hanqing , Zhu Xiaoke , Zhou Liang , Zhang Ming , Li Ji , Tao Lei
Published: August 2022

Background

Optimal treatment strategies for patients with stage IVa‐b hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) remain controversial. This study aimed to examine the high‐risk factors of postoperative tumor recurrence after surgical resection of HSCC and devise individualized postoperative adjuvant treatment (POAT).

Methods

Overall, 218 patients with stage IVa‐b HSCC who received surgery as initial treatment and with negative surgical margins were evaluated. Independent risk factors of recurrence were identified, and survival outcomes were compared according to recurrence risk and POAT use.

Results

POAT significantly improved recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) only in the high‐risk patients (p = 0.003 and 0.018, respectively). Compared with postoperative radiotherapy alone, postoperative chemoradiotherapy (pCRT) achieved significantly better RFS (p = 0.035) and OS (p = 0.048).

Conclusions

POATs are recommended for high‐risk patients with stage Iva‐b HSCC, with pCRT achieving superior outcomes. Regular re‐examination after tumor resection is sufficient for low‐risk patients.
Combined taxane, platinum, and cetuximab as a first‐line treatment for recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Retrospective study
Authors: Liu Yizhen , Xue Liqiong , Xia Zuguang , Zhang Qunling , Guo Ye
Published: August 2022

Background

There is limited evidence supporting the use of taxane‐based chemotherapy combined with cetuximab to treat recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC). This retrospective study aimed to explore treatment efficacy and safety in a first‐line setting.

Methods

Fifty‐nine patients received ≤6 cycles of combined cetuximab, platinum compounds, and taxane (median follow‐up, 352 days). Kaplan–Meier survival curves were constructed.

Results

The median patient age was 54 years (23–75 years; 50 males and 9 females). The most common distant metastatic site was the lung. Patients received ≥2 cycles chemotherapy (33 [55.9%] received cetuximab, paclitaxel, and carboplatin; 21 [35.5%] received cetuximab maintenance; median progression‐free survival, 7 months; overall survival, 12 months). The most common hematological toxicity was Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, which was successfully managed through growth‐stimulating factors and dose modifications. No treatment‐associated deaths occurred.

Conclusions

Combined cetuximab, platinum, and taxane is effective and tolerable in R/M HNSCC.
Developmental psychologists should adopt citizen science to improve generalization and reproducibility
Authors: Li Wei , Germine Laura Thi , Mehr Samuel A. , Srinivasan Mahesh , Hartshorne Joshua
Published: August 2022

Widespread failures of replication and generalization are, ironically, a scientific triumph, in that they confirm the fundamental metascientific theory that underlies our field. Generalizable and replicable findings require testing large numbers of subjects from a wide range of demographics with a large, randomly‐sampled stimulus set, and using a variety of experimental parameters. Because few studies accomplish any of this, meta‐scientists predict that findings will frequently fail to replicate or generalize. We argue that to be more robust and replicable, developmental psychology needs to find a mechanism for collecting data at a greater scale and from more diverse populations. Luckily, this mechanism already exists as follows: Citizen science, in which large numbers of uncompensated volunteers provide data. While best‐known for its contributions to astronomy and ecology, citizen science has also produced major findings in neuroscience and psychology, and increasingly in developmental psychology. We provide examples, address practical challenges, discuss limitations, and compare to other methods of obtaining large datasets. Ultimately, we argue that the range of studies where it makes sense *not* to use citizen science is steadily dwindling.
Using population health‐based strategies to optimize use of direct‐acting oral anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Nigro Stefanie C. , Boemio Nicholas
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Pharmacists deploy a variety of population‐health strategies to identify needs related to pharmacotherapy. One area that deserves closer attention is medication management in atrial fibrillation (AF) since managing stroke prevention in older adults with AF requires delicately balancing the risk of thrombosis with the risk of bleeding.

Objective(s)

Evaluate direct‐acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) prescribing trends and explore strategies for mitigating gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) risk in older adults prescribed a DOAC for stroke prevention in AF.

Methods

A quality improvement project was conducted and included Managed‐Medicare patients from a single primary care organization prescribed a DOAC for AF. Pharmacists estimated risk of benefit and harm from the prescribed DOAC using established algorithms and patient characteristics documented in the medical record. They then forecasted the change in net clinical benefit if the prescribed DOAC was switched to a different DOAC.

Results

Overall, 200 patients met the inclusion criteria. Based on distribution of DOACs in the original study population, 52% of patients were in the definitive benefit group (benefit in reducing stroke risk outweigh risk of bleeding by 2‐fold or greater), with 37% and 10.5% in the leaning benefit (reduction in stroke risk was up to 2‐fold greater than bleeding risk) and leaning risk (bleeding risk was up to 2‐fold greater than stroke risk reduction) groups, respectively. Calculation of risk should the prescribed DOAC be changed from rivaroxaban to apixaban was estimated to improve the net clinical benefit and reduce the risk of a patient falling in a negative clinical benefit group when compared to rivaroxaban and the original study population, respectively; 92% (relative risk [RR] 0.08 [0.026‐0.277; P < 0.0001]) and 81% (RR 0.19 [0.067‐0.545; P = 0.0002]).

Conclusion

Population health‐based strategies centered on DOAC use in older adults can help identify prescribing trends and allow organizations to explore ways to mitigate risk of GIB. Preferential use of apixaban could reduce bleeding risk among older adults requiring anticoagulation for AF.
Associations between dynapenia, cardiovascular hospitalizations, and all‐cause mortality among patients on haemodialysis
Authors: Yoshikoshi Shun , Yamamoto Shohei , Suzuki Yuta , Imamura Keigo , Harada Manae , Osada Shiwori , Kamiya Kentaro , Matsunaga Atsuhiko
Published: August 2022

Background

Low muscle strength is associated with adverse clinical outcomes in patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD). No studies have reported the association between dynapenia, defined by both low handgrip strength (HGS) and quadriceps isometric strength (QIS), and long‐term clinical outcomes in patients on HD. We examined the associations between dynapenia, cardiovascular (CV) hospitalizations, and all‐cause mortality in the HD population.

Methods

This retrospective study used data from outpatients undergoing HD at two dialysis facilities between October 2002 and March 2020. We defined low muscle strength as an HGS of <28 kg for men and <18 kg for women and a QIS of <40% dry weight. Furthermore, we categorized dynapenia into three groups: robust (‘high HGS and high QIS’), either low HGS or low QIS (‘low HGS only’ or ‘low QIS only’), and dynapenia (‘low HGS and low QIS’). The outcomes were all‐cause mortality and a composite of CV hospitalizations and mortality. Cox proportional hazards and negative binomial models were used to examine these associations.

Results

A total of 616 patients (mean age, 65.4 ± 12.2 years; men, 61%) were included in the analyses. During the follow‐up (median, 3.0 years), a total of 163 deaths and 288 CV hospitalizations occurred. Patients with the either low HGS or low QIS [hazard ratio (HR), 1.75; 95% confidence intervals (CIs), 1.46–2.10] and dynapenia (HR, 2.80; 95% CIs, 2.49–3.14) had a higher risk of mortality than those in the robust group. When compared with the robust group, the either low HGS or low QIS [incidence rate ratio (IRR): 1.41, 95% CI: 1.00–1.99] and dynapenia (IRR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.44–2.89) groups were associated with a significantly higher incident risk of CV hospitalizations.

Conclusions

Dynapenia (muscle weakness in both upper and lower extremities) was associated with increased risks of all‐cause mortality and CV hospitalizations among patients on HD. Screening for dynapenia using both HGS and QIS may be useful for prognostic stratification in the HD population.
Prenatal effects of alprazolam treatment on the immature cerebellum of rats
Authors: Mascarenhas Fernanda Naves Araújo do Prado , Silva Natália Ferreira , Menezes‐Reis Lorena Tannús , Vieira Lucélia Gonçalves , Hirano Líria Queiroz Luz , Botelho Françoise Vasconcelos , Ribeiro Daniele Lisboa , Zanon Renata Graciele
Published: August 2022

The use of benzodiazepines (BZDs) during pregnancy, especially alprazolam, is common and its impact on the fetal neural tissue is not known. In this sense, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of prenatal treatment with alprazolam on the cerebellum of Wistar rat pups. Thirty animals (24 females and six males, CEUA protocol 014/17) were separated into pairs for copulation. Females were divided into three groups: Control (CT), treatment 1 (T1, 1.25 mg per animal), and treatment 2, which is an overdose (T2, 30 mg per animal). Alprazolam was administered 10 days before copulation and throughout pregnancy. We evaluated the number and weight of pups and the macroscopic changes in the brain. Eight neonates (n = 8) from each group were used in the following analyses: Cellular and chromatin density, gliosis, synaptic density, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The results showed no significant differences regarding the number of pups, body weight, and macroscopic changes. The morphological study focused on the external granular layer (EGL) that is presented only in the immature cerebellum. Here, we detected more cells after alprazolam treatment; the T2 group showed large nuclei and some pyknotic nuclei; also, both treated groups presented an increase in the euchromatin density compared with the control. The molecular and biochemical analyses used the total protein extract of the entire cerebellum and showed an increased expression of Iba‐1 and NF‐κBp65 but without indication of inflammation or degeneration in the T1 group. Overdose of alprazolam presented an increased level of oxidative degradation of lipids. The treatment with alprazolam during pregnancy involved cellular and molecular changes in the immature cerebellum.
Examining interests and goals as predictors of gender differences in engineers' pursuit of managerial roles
Authors: Cardador M. Teresa , Hill Patrick L. , Lopez‐Alvarez Grisel
Published: August 2022

Background

Given the gendering of engineering roles and competencies, the evidence that the skills required for engineering management are widely referred to as social, and the fact that men engineers are stereotyped as more technical, and women as more social, it might be theorized that (a) those that occupy managerial (vs. technical) roles in engineering are more socially oriented, and (b) that this will especially be the case for women. However, no research has empirically tested the relationship between having socially oriented characteristics and being in managerial roles within the engineering profession, nor have gender differences been examined.

Purpose

We test whether social interests and communal goal strivings are linked to engineers' positioning in managerial roles and explore gender as a moderator of these relationships. Additionally, because enterprising interests and agentic goal strivings have been linked to managerial roles in other occupations, we test these as additional predictors of engineers' positioning in managerial roles.

Method

In a field survey of 274 industry engineers from multiple organizations and subfields, we tested the relationships described using hierarchical linear regression analysis.

Results

Enterprising interests and agentic goals, but not social interests and communal goals, were associated with being in managerial roles, and there were no gender differences in these relationships.

Conclusions

Our findings challenge perceptions that managerial roles in engineering, and particularly women's positioning in these roles, are associated with socially oriented tendencies. Findings have implications for research on gender stereotyping and intraoccupational gender segregation in engineering and hold educational implications for curriculum, instruction, and advising.
Automatic analysis system for abnormal red blood cells in peripheral blood smears
Authors: Gil Taeyeon , Moon Cho‐I , Lee Sukjun , Lee Onseok
Published: August 2022

The type and ratio of abnormal red blood cells (RBCs) in blood can be identified through peripheral blood smear test. Accurate classification is important because the accompanying diseases indicated by abnormal RBCs vary. In clinical practice, this task is time‐consuming because the RBCs are manually classified. In addition, because the classification depends on the subjective criteria of pathologists, objective classification is difficult to achieve. In this paper, an automatic classification method that is solely based on images of RBCs captured under a microscope and processed using machine learning (ML) is proposed. The size and hemoglobin abnormalities of RBCs were classified by optimizing the criteria used in clinical practice. For morphologically abnormal RBCs classification, used seven geometric features information (major axis, minor axis, ratio of major and minor axis, perimeter, circularity, number of convex hulls, difference between area and convex area) and five types of multiple classifiers (Support Vector Machine, Decision Tree, K‐Nearest Neighbor, Random Forest, and Adaboost models). Among was categorized using SVM, highly accurate results (99.9%) were obtained. The classification is performed simultaneously, and results are provided to the user through a graphical user interface (GUI).
When 3D genome technology meets viral infection, including SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Liang Weizheng , Wang Shuangqing , Wang Hao , Li Xiushen , Meng Qingxue , Zhao Yan , Zheng Chunfu
Published: August 2022

Mammalian chromosomes undergo varying degrees of compression to form three‐dimensional genome structures. These three‐dimensional structures undergo dynamic and precise chromatin interactions to achieve precise spatial and temporal regulation of gene expression. Most eukaryotic DNA viruses can invade their genomes into the nucleus. However, it is still poorly understood how the viral genome is precisely positioned after entering the host cell nucleus to find the most suitable location and whether it can specifically interact with the host genome to hijack the host transcriptional factories or even integrate into the host genome to complete its transcription and replication rapidly. Chromosome conformation capture technology can reveal long‐range chromatin interactions between different chromosomal sites in the nucleus, potentially providing a reference for viral DNA‐host chromatin interactions. This review summarized the research progress on the three‐dimensional interaction between virus and host genome and the impact of virus integration into the host genome on gene transcription regulation, aiming to provide new insights into chromatin interaction and viral gene transcription regulation, laying the foundation for the treatment of infectious diseases.
Do political ties facilitate operational efficiency? A contingent political embeddedness perspective
Authors: Shen Lu , Zhou Kevin Zheng , Wang Kui , Zhang Chuang
Published: August 2022

Although the significance of relational ties with supply chain partners to firms' operations management has been frequently studied, it is unclear how political ties, which represent another form of relational ties that is especially important in emerging economies, relate to operational efficiency. Drawing on the political embeddedness perspective, we propose a negative association between political ties and operational efficiency and examine how this association is moderated by environmental and firm‐level factors. Using panel data of listed private firms in China, we show that political ties are negatively correlated with operational efficiency. In addition, this negative relationship is stronger when firms operate in regions with less developed factor markets and in highly competitive industries. However, the negative relationship is weaker for firms with high levels of foreign shareholding and customer concentration. These findings caution against the downsides of political ties for operations management and highlight strategies for reducing their negative effect.
Implementing pharmacist‐led deprescribing in the haemodialysis unit: a quality use of medicine activity in the Queensland hospital setting
Authors: Scuderi Carla , Rice Michelle , Hendy Anna , Anning Nicolas , Perks Stephen , Antonel Melissa , Brown Leeane , Rawlings Cassandra , Ratanjee Sharad
Published: August 2022

Background

Polypharmacy in haemodialysis patients can not only manifest as the continued prescribing of unnecessary medications but also has the potential to increase medication‐related hospital admissions, morbidity, and mortality. A validated deprescribing algorithm has recently been developed, specifically targeted at dialysis patients. This paper audits the experience of implementing this algorithm in Australian dialysis settings.

Aim

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the usefulness and applicability of the pharmacist‐led Toronto deprescribing tool in Australian haemodialysis settings.

Method

The pharmacist‐led deprescribing algorithm was implemented across two metropolitan sites and one rural site. The audit focused on five medications that could potentially be deprescribed in the target patient group (diuretics, alpha blockers, statins, proton pump inhibitors [PPIs], and quinine). Between 1 and 12 months later, a reaudit was conducted, with patients followed up to confirm if medications remained deprescribed.

Results

Two hundred and eleven patients across three sites were reviewed. Application of the algorithm resulted in 168 medications deemed appropriate to deprescribe. Of these 168 medications, 56 (33%) were initially deprescribed, with 50 medications (30%) remaining deprescribed on reaudit. The deprescribing rates varied between the three different services, with initial deprescribing rates ranging from 18% to 61%. After follow‐up, deprescribing changes across target medications were fairly static, with only a small number of patients restarting either their diuretic or PPI.

Conclusion

The pharmacist‐led deprescribing algorithm resulted in substantial deprescribing across the three sites. Deprescribing rates varied between the sites due to differences in the team model that the pharmacist worked within and the method of the rollout. Further studies should draw on aspects such as finding enablers to overcome prescriber and patient concerns about deprescribing and the aspects of which team models lead to higher rates of successful deprescribing.
Evaluation of the effect of background electrolyte composition and independence of parameters in determining binding constants of betulin derivatives to β‐ and dimethyl‐β‐cyclodextrins by affinity capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Sursyakova Viktoria V. , Levdansky Vladimir A. , Rubaylo Anatoly I.
Published: August 2022

The values of the apparent binding constants for β‐cyclodextrin complexes of betulin derivatives determined by mobility shift affinity capillary electrophoresis were found to be independent of the composition of the two background electrolytes used (tetraborate buffer, pH 9.18, and phosphate buffer, pH 8.00, both of them with 20 mM ionic strength). It has been found that if there is not a constant plateau on the binding curve then four independent parameters can be determined: binding constants (also referred to as stability, association, or formation constants) and ionic mobilities of 1:1 and 1:2 complexes. However, at least 10–12 data points in the binding curve should be used to reliably estimate the parameters. For the first time, the apparent binding constants for complexes of ester betulin derivatives with dimethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin have been determined by mobility shift affinity capillary electrophoresis. The logarithms of the constants for 1:1 and 1:2 complexes at 25°C for betulin 3,28‐diphthalate with a 95% confidence interval are 4.98 (4.95–5.01) and 7.52 (7.26–7.68); for betulin 3,28‐disulfate, the values are 4.97 (4.89–5.03) and 8.24 (6.82–8.52). It has been found that betulin 3,28‐disuccinate forms only a 1:1 complex and the binding constant logarithm is 5.25 ± 0.02.