bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical outcomes and postprocedural courses of mucosal incision‐assisted biopsy for possible gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors: A series of 48 cases (with video)
Authors: Koizumi Eriko , Goto Osamu , Nakagome Shun , Habu Tsugumi , Ishikawa Yumiko , Kirita Kumiko , Noda Hiroto , Higuchi Kazutoshi , Onda Takeshi , Akimoto Teppei , Omori Jun , Akimoto Naohiko , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: June 2023

Objective

Mucosal incision‐assisted biopsy (MIAB) has been introduced as an alternative to endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration for tissue sampling of subepithelial lesions. However, there have been few reports on MIAB, and the evidence is lacking, particularly in small lesions. In this case series, we investigated the technical outcomes and postprocedural influences of MIAB for gastric subepithelial lesions 10 mm or greater in size.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed cases with the intraluminal growth type of possible gastrointestinal stromal tumors, in which MIAB was performed at a single institution between October 2020 and August 2022. Technical success, adverse events, and clinical courses following the procedure were evaluated.

Results

In 48 MIAB cases with a median tumor diameter of 16 mm, the success rate of tissue sampling and the diagnostic rate were 96% and 92%, respectively. Two biopsies were considered sufficient for making the definitive diagnosis. Postoperative bleeding occurred in one case (2%). In 24 cases, surgery has performed a median of two months after MIAB, and no unfavorable findings caused by MIAB were seen intraoperatively. Finally, 23 cases were histologically diagnosed as gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and no patients who underwent MIAB experienced recurrence or metastasis during a median observation period of 13 months.

Conclusions

The data indicated that MIAB appears feasible, safe, and useful for histological diagnosis of gastric intraluminal growth types of possible gastrointestinal stromal tumors, even those of a small size. Postprocedural clinical effects were considered negligible.
Reef island evolution in a turbid‐water coral reef province of the Indo‐Pacific
Authors: Bonesso Joshua L. , Cuttler Michael V. W. , Browne Nicola K. , Mather Caroline C. , Paumard Victorien , Hiscock William T. , Callow John N. , O'Leary Michael
Published: June 2023

Coral reef islands are vulnerable landforms to environmental change. Constructed of largely unconsolidated reef‐derived sediments, they are highly sensitive to variations in metocean boundary conditions, raising global concern about their future resilience and stability in the face of increased natural hazards, sea‐level rise and anthropogenic climate change. This study examines the evolution of an inshore turbid reef island from the southern Pilbara region of Western Australia (Indo‐Pacific) using detailed analyses of island chronostratigraphy (composition, texture) and geochronology (21 in‐situ radiometric dates) from Eva Island. Downcore, composition of island‐grade (reef‐derived) sediments were homogenous, dominated by molluscan (37%–42%) and coral (32%–37%) constituents. The 14C radiometric dating of island sediments, beachrock and coral microatolls identified five stages of island formation across changing sea‐level regimes over the mid to late Holocene: (1) limestone platform accretion at ca 6,000 cal yr BP, coinciding with reef decline or ‘give‐up’ on neighbouring Exmouth Gulf reefs; (2) sand cay (i.e. core) initiation and vertical aggregation at ca 5,000 cal yr BP during the point of sea‐level regression to current levels; (3) major accretion and lateral progradation of the island between 3,500 cal yr BP and 2,500 cal yr BP including the modification of island shorelines through alongshore reworking of sediment; (4) lateral accretion and minor expansion to the north and formation of beachrock pavement between 2,500 and 650 cal yr BP; and (5) planform adjustment (erosion of the north‐west island) and backstepping under stabilised sea levels over the past 650 years. While this model is comparative to studies on island formation following incremental sea‐level fall following the mid‐Holocene highstand, it demonstrates active landform readjustment under stabilised sea levels over the past 2,000 years, probably the influence of local‐scale metocean boundary conditions within climate windows across the mid to late Holocene period (i.e. independent of sea‐level fluctuations). Importantly, while sediment production rates are predicted to be lower in turbid‐water reef systems than clear water, Eva Island shows no change in carbonate producers (i.e. proportion of mollusc and coral) over the course of island building, indicating the carbonate factory has not experienced significant adjustments in reef ecology, but has remained stable despite low water quality.
Predicting diabetic foot ulceration using routinely collected data in a foot clinic. What level of prognostic accuracy can be achieved?
Authors: Naemi Roozbeh , Balasubramanian Gayathri , Darvel Tracey , Chockalingam Nachiappan
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of using routinely collected clinical data in predicting the risk of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). The first objective was to develop a prognostic model based on the most important risk factors objectively selected from a set of 39 clinical measures. The second objective was to compare the prediction accuracy of the developed model against that of a model based on only the 3 risk factors that were suggested in the systematic review and meta‐analyses study (PODUS). In a cohort study, a set of 12 continuous and 27 categorical data from patients (n = 203 M/F:99/104) who attended a specialised diabetic foot clinic were collected at baseline. These patients were then followed‐up for 24 months during which 24 (M/F:17/7) patients had DFU. Multivariate logistic regression was used to develop a prognostic model using the identified risk factors that achieved p < 0.2 based on univariate logistic regression. The final prognostic model included 4 risk factors (Adjusted‐OR [95% CI]; p) in total. Impaired sensation (116.082 [12.06–1117.287]; p = 0.000) and presence of callus (6.257 [1.312–29.836]; p = 0.021) were significant (p < 0.05), while having dry skin (5.497 [0.866–34.89]; p = 0.071) and Onychomycosis (6.386 [0.856–47.670]; p = 0.071) that stayed in the model were not significant. The accuracy of the model with these 4 risk factors was 92.3%, where sensitivity and specificity were 78.9%, and 94.0% respectively. The 78.9% sensitivity of our prognostic 4‐risk factor model was superior to the 50% sensitivity that was achieved when the three risk factors proposed by PODUS were used. Also our proposed model based on the above 4 risk factors showed to predict the DFU with higher overall prognostic accuracy. These findings have implications for developing prognostic models and clinical prediction rules in specific patient populations to more accurately predict DFU.
Vulnerability of sea turtle nesting sites to erosion and inundation: A decision support framework to maximize conservation
Authors: Gammon Malindi , Whiting Scott , Fossette Sabrina
Published: June 2023

Sandy beaches provide essential nesting habitats for sea turtles but are threatened globally by a rapidly changing climate. Identifying which nesting sites are at the greatest risk from erosion and inundation remains an important goal of sea turtle conservation globally. Yet, efforts to identify at‐risk sites have been hindered by the ability to model complex processes and incomplete information on nesting distribution and abundance. To assess the erosion and inundation risk to the reproductive success of a discrete genetic stock of flatback turtles (Natator depressus) across its nesting range in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, we used the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade‐offs (InVEST) Coastal Vulnerability Model. A relative exposure index was calculated for 402 nesting beaches in terms of six geophysical variables: wind and wave exposure, surge potential, relief, observed sea level rise, and coastal geomorphology, and coupled with published information on the distribution and abundance of turtle tracks in the region. The majority of beaches (74%) had intermediate to high exposure. In particular, 36% of beaches with a high abundance of flatback tracks (the top 25% of the frequency distribution) had a high exposure (the top 25% of the frequency distribution). This suggests that coastal exposure is a key vulnerability to the reproductive success of sea turtles that nest in this region. Promisingly, five beaches with a high abundance of turtle tracks also had a low exposure (bottom 25% of the frequency distribution), and these beaches may be critical for the long‐term resilience of the stock against sea level rise and severe storms. Exposure varied across nesting sites, and the approach presented here allows for a rapid and broadscale assessment of relative erosion and inundation risks at a scale most relevant to management.
A quantitative model to ensure capacity sufficient for timely access to care in a remote patient monitoring program
Authors: Chang Annie , Gao Michael Z. , Ferstad Johannes O. , Dupenloup Paul , Zaharieva Dessi P. , Maahs David M. , Prahalad Priya , Johari Ramesh , Scheinker David
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Algorithm‐enabled remote patient monitoring (RPM) programs pose novel operational challenges. For clinics developing and deploying such programs, no standardized model is available to ensure capacity sufficient for timely access to care. We developed a flexible model and interactive dashboard of capacity planning for whole‐population RPM‐based care for T1D.

Methods

Data were gathered from a weekly RPM program for 277 paediatric patients with T1D at a paediatric academic medical centre. Through the analysis of 2 years of observational operational data and iterative interviews with the care team, we identified the primary operational, population, and workforce metrics that drive demand for care providers. Based on these metrics, an interactive model was designed to facilitate capacity planning and deployed as a dashboard.

Results

The primary population‐level drivers of demand are the number of patients in the program, the rate at which patients enrol and graduate from the program, and the average frequency at which patients require a review of their data. The primary modifiable clinic‐level drivers of capacity are the number of care providers, the time required to review patient data and contact a patient, and the number of hours each provider allocates to the program each week. At the institution studied, the model identified a variety of practical operational approaches to better match the demand for patient care.

Conclusion

We designed a generalizable, systematic model for capacity planning for a paediatric endocrinology clinic providing RPM for T1D. We deployed this model as an interactive dashboard and used it to facilitate expansion of a novel care program (4 T Study) for newly diagnosed patients with T1D. This model may facilitate the systematic design of RPM‐based care programs.
The high‐frequency phenomenon of copper clad aluminum wires which are lower the alternating current resistance than copper solid wires, and the application of copper clad aluminum wires to the electrical equipment
Authors: Ueda Katsuhiko , Hung Chefen
Published: June 2023

The paper is proposed approximate formulas of the ac resistance of lead wires and coils which made by using copper clad aluminum (CCA) wires. There are the frequency range that the ac resistance of CCA wires is lower than it of cupper solid wires for lead wires and coils of an electrical equipment. It is shown that the application of CCA wires is economical as comparing with copper solid wires, if the design is due to successful calculation in the electrical equipment. The measured resistance is compared with the formula. CCA wires is an example of multiple conductors which shall be expected to apply in future.
Pyrazine Derivative as Supramolecular Host for Immobilization of Palladium Nanoparticles for Efficient Suzuki Coupling
Authors: Sharma Sonia , Kumar Manoj , Bhalla Vandana
Published: June 2023

Palladium nanoparticles (NPs) have been extensively explored as unique catalyst for carbon‐carbon coupling reactions. Nonetheless, because of extreme tendency of nanoparticles to undergo agglomeration, the immobilization of these metal NPs on organic frameworks is an important area of research. The present investigation demonstrates the synthesis of pyrazine derivative PYZ‐TA as a supramolecular host for holding co‐released Pd NPs derived from the original catalyst (Pd(II)) under standard Suzuki coupling. Unprecedent, physical bars are not required to capture Pd NPs within the pores of supramolecular host. The as obtained catalyst PYZ‐TA@Pd exhibits high potential to undergo self‐assembly in solid as well as in liquid state. The PYZ‐TA@Pd ensemble shows high catalytic activity and recyclability (up to seven cycles) in Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling reactions using low palladium loading and provides the corresponding products in excellent yields (up to 98 %). Therefore, this study provides an efficient strategy to develop an easy to synthesize palladium centered solid catalyst through coordination between organic host and Pd NPs.
Planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Fabricated by Aqueous Reverse Sequential Tape‐Casting of the Anode, Electrolyte, and Barrier Layer
Authors: Parvaix Laura , Duluard Sandrine , Ansart Florence , Lenormand Pascal , Rozier Patrick
Published: June 2023

A low‐cost manufacturing procedure has been developed for the fabrication of planar anode‐supported solid oxide fuel cell including only two thermal treatments. This method is also environmental friendly because slurries are water based and use nontoxic additives. Slurries are formulated by optimizing the powder quantity, by minimizing the organic compounds while controlling their stabilities and their rheological properties. Flexible multilayer green tapes have been produced by using the reverse sequential tape‐casting method. After a cosintering thermal treatment under loads, planar anodic half‐cells have been produced allowing the deposition of a La2NiO4+δ cathode by screen printing. After the final consolidation thermal treatment, the cell presents a 30 μm‐thick porous cathode, a 530 μm‐thick NiO‐YSZ porous anode, and a 80 μm‐thick dense electrolyte with a gradient of composition: 10GDC on the cathode side to prevent the apparition of the La2Zr2O7 insulating phase and 8YSZ on the anode side to avoid the reduction of 10GDC with the fuel gas. Power densities present promising performances (319 mW cm−2 at 830 °C) given that electrolyte thickness and electrochemical system measurement may be improved.
Epileptic nystagmus as clinical manifestation of self‐limited focal epilepsy: Rethinking etiology and prognostic value and literature review
Authors: Sara Brunetti , Isabella Cocco , Simona Damioli , Patrizia Accorsi , Laura Tassi , Lucio Giordano
Published: June 2023

Epileptic nystagmus (EN) is an uncommon ictal clinical manifestation characterized by rapid, repetitive eyeballs movements. Few cases of EN have been reported and, in most cases, electro‐clinical correlation showed a focal EEG activity, mainly in the occipital and temporo‐occipital areas. Although EN occurs both in idiopathic and non‐idiopathic epilepsy, the most frequent cause appears to be inborn or acquired alteration of brain structures. We report of a 12‐year‐old girl with EN as ictal manifestation of self‐limited focal seizures. We described clinical manifestations, electroencephalographic features, treatment, and follow‐up, presenting the ictal video‐EEG phenomenon. Alongside, we reviewed the reported clinical features of the few pediatric cases (seven patients) with idiopathic epileptic nystagmus through a systematic literature review. Isolated Epileptic Nystagmus (IEN) is much rarer than EN, as it is more frequently associated with other types of seizures, and can be idiopathic, especially in children. Epilepsy prognosis is usually favorable with appropriate treatment, and ASM discontinuation seems to be successful after few years of treatment.
A random choice scheme for scalar advection
Authors: Gallouët Thierry , Hurisse Olivier , Kokh Samuel
Published: June 2023

This paper is dedicated to a numerical method based on a random choice as proposed in Glimm's scheme. It is applied to the problem of advection of a scalar quantity. The numerical scheme proposed here relies on a fractional step approach for which: the first step is performed using any classical finite‐volume scheme, and the second step is a cell‐wise update. This second step is a projection based on a random choice. The resulting scheme possesses a very low level of numerical diffusion. In order to assess the capabilities of this approach, several test cases have been investigated including convergence studies with respect to the mesh‐size. The algorithm performs very well on one‐dimensional and multi‐dimensional problems. This algorithm is very easy to implement even for multi‐processor computations.
Evolution of depositional environment of the Pliensbachian Stage (Lower Jurassic) coal‐bearing series in the Qaidam Basin, NW China
Authors: Zhou Kai , Wang Wanqing , Yang Minfang , Gao Ran , Liu Haoqing , Shao Longyi , Lu Jing
Published: June 2023

The Qaidam Basin is one of the major coal‐bearing basins in northeastern China with the coal seams mainly preserved in the Lower–Middle Jurassic. The Middle Jurassic sedimentary environment, sequence stratigraphy, paleoclimate, and coal accumulation in the Qaidam Basin have been extensively studied, while the sedimentary characteristics and depositional evolution of the Lower Jurassic coal‐bearing series are less well known. We systematically analysed the facies association, depositional system, basin evolution, and coal accumulation of the Early Jurassic Pliensbachian‐aged coal‐bearing series from the Dameigou section in the northern Qaidam Basin. Five lithological types have been identified, ranging from conglomerates, sandstones, siltstones, and mudstones to combustible organic rocks, which were further subdivided into 12 lithofacies. These lithofacies were grouped into four facies associations, representing the braided fluvial, meandering fluvial, lacustrine, and meandering fluvial‐lacustrine transition deposits, respectively. The Pliensbachian Stage mainly developed as a fluvial‐lacustrine depositional system and an evolution history from braided fluvial to meandering fluvial, then to lacustrine, and finally back to meandering fluvial was reconstructed. We suggest that climate change is the major controlling factor for depositional evolution during the Pliensbachian. The transition of the depositional environment from fluvial to lacustrine in the study area can be attributed to the rapid climatic change induced by volcanism at this interval.
A novel geometry‐based analysis of hippocampal morphometry in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Fischbach Laura , Bauer Tobias , Diers Kersten , Witt Juri‐Alexander , Brugues Mar , Borger Valeri , Schidlowski Martin , Rácz Attila , Baumgartner Tobias , von Wrede Randi , Paech Daniel , Weber Bernd , Radbruch Alexander , Vatter Hartmut , Becker Albert J. , Huppertz Hans‐Jürgen , Helmstaedter Christoph , Surges Rainer , Reuter Martin , Rüber Theodor
Published: June 2023

Hippocampal volumetry is an essential tool in researching and diagnosing mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE). However, it has a limited ability to detect subtle alterations in hippocampal morphometry. Here, we establish and apply a novel geometry‐based tool that enables point‐wise morphometric analysis based on an intrinsic coordinate system of the hippocampus. We hypothesized that this point‐wise analysis uncovers structural alterations not measurable by volumetry, but associated with histological underpinnings and the neuropsychological profile of mTLE. We conducted a retrospective study in 204 individuals with mTLE and 57 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy subjects. FreeSurfer‐based segmentations of hippocampal subfields in 3T‐MRI were subjected to a geometry‐based analysis that resulted in a coordinate system of the hippocampal mid‐surface and allowed for point‐wise measurements of hippocampal thickness and other features. Using point‐wise analysis, we found significantly lower thickness and higher FLAIR signal intensity in the entire affected hippocampus of individuals with hippocampal sclerosis (HS‐mTLE). In the contralateral hippocampus of HS‐mTLE and the affected hippocampus of MRI‐negative mTLE, we observed significantly lower thickness in the presubiculum. Impaired verbal memory was associated with lower thickness in the left presubiculum. In HS‐mTLE histological subtype 3, we observed higher curvature than in subtypes 1 and 2 (all p < .05). These findings could not be observed using conventional volumetry (Bonferroni‐corrected p < .05). We show that point‐wise measures of hippocampal morphometry can uncover structural alterations not measurable by volumetry while also reflecting histological underpinnings and verbal memory. This substantiates the prospect of their clinical application.
Machine learning in laryngeal cancer: A pilot study to predict oncological outcomes and the role of adverse features
Authors: Petruzzi Gerardo , Coden Elisa , Iocca Oreste , di Maio Pasquale , Pichi Barbara , Campo Flaminia , De Virgilio Armando , Francesco Mazzola , Vidiri Antonello , Pellini Raul
Published: June 2023

Background

Laryngeal carcinoma (LC) remains a significant economic and emotional problem to the healthcare system and severe social morbidity. New tools as Machine Learning could allow clinicians to develop accurate and reproducible treatments.

Methods

This study aims to evaluate the performance of a ML‐algorithm in predicting 1‐ and 3‐year overall survival (OS) in a cohort of patients surgical treated for LC. Moreover, the impact of different adverse features on prognosis will be investigated. Data was collected on oncological FU of 132 patients. A retrospective review was performed to create a dataset of 23 variables for each patient.

Results

The decision‐tree algorithm is highly effective in predicting the prognosis, with a 95% accuracy in predicting the 1‐year survival and 82.5% in 3‐year survival; The measured AUC area is 0.886 at 1‐year Test and 0.871 at 3‐years Test. The measured AUC area is 0.917 at 1‐year Training set and 0.964 at 3‐years Training set. Factors that affected 1yOS are: LNR, type of surgery, and subsite. The most significant variables at 3yOS are: number of metastasis, perineural invasion and Grading.

Conclusions

The integration of ML in medical practices could revolutionize our approach on cancer pathology.
COVID‐19 disaster recovery capitals: A conceptual framework to guide holistic and strengths‐based support strategies
Authors: Quinn Phoebe , Munari Stephanie , Block Karen , Walker Shelley , Liberman Jonathan , Wallace Jack , Horyniak Danielle , Oliver Jane , Hellard Margaret , Fletcher‐Lartey Stephanie , Gibbs Lisa
Published: June 2023

Issue Addressed

The COVID‐19 pandemic bears many similarities to other disasters such as bushfires, earthquakes and floods. It also has distinctive features including its prolonged and recurrent nature and the social isolation induced by pandemic responses. Existing conceptual frameworks previously applied to the study of disaster, such as the Recovery Capitals Framework (RCF), may be useful in understanding experiences of the COVID‐19 pandemic and in guiding agencies and governments tasked with supporting communities.

Methods

This paper presents an analysis of interviews conducted with residents of the Australian state of Victoria in 2020–2021. The RCF was used to analyse how participant experiences and well‐being were influenced by seven forms of capital—social, human, natural, financial, built, cultural and political—with particular focus on the interactions between these capitals.

Results

Social capital featured most prominently in participants' accounts, yet the analysis revealed important interactions between social and other capitals that shaped their pandemic experiences. The RCF supported a strengths‐based and holistic analysis while also revealing how inequities and challenges were compounded in some cases.

Conclusions

Findings can be leveraged to develop effective and innovative strategies to support well‐being and disrupt patterns of compounding inequity. Applying the RCF in the context of COVID‐19 can help to link pandemic research with research from a wide range of disasters.

So What?

In an increasingly complex global landscape of cascading and intersecting disasters including pandemics, flexible and nuanced conceptual approaches such as the RCF can generate valuable insights with practical implications for health promotion efforts.
How can we deliver on the promise of precision medicine in oncology and beyond? A practical roadmap for action
Authors: Baird Anne‐Marie , Westphalen C. Benedikt , Blum Sandra , Nafria Begonya , Knott Tanya , Sargeant Ify , Harnik Helena , Brooke Nicholas , Wicki Nicole , Wong‐Rieger Durhane
Published: June 2023

Background

Precision medicine (PM) is a form of personalized medicine that recognizes that individuals with the same condition may have different underlying factors and uses molecular information to provide tailored treatments. This approach can improve treatment outcomes and transform lives through favorable risk/benefit ratios, avoidance of ineffective interventions, and possible cost savings, as evidenced in the field of lung cancer and other oncology/therapeutic settings, including cardiac disease, diabetes, and rare diseases. However, the potential benefits of PM have yet to be fully realized.

Discussion

There are many barriers to the implementation of PM in clinical practice, including fragmentation of the PM landscape, siloed approaches to address shared challenges, unwarranted variation in availability and access to PM, lack of standardization, and limited understanding of patients' experience and needs throughout the PM pathway. We believe that a diverse, intersectoral multistakeholder collaboration, with three main pillars of activity: generation of data to demonstrate the benefit of PM, education to support informed decision‐making, and addressing barriers across the patient pathway, is necessary to reach the shared goal of making PM an accessible and sustainable reality. Besides healthcare providers, researchers, policymakers/regulators/payers, and industry representatives, patients in particular must be equal partners and should be central to the PM approach―from early research through to clinical trials and approval of new treatments―to ensure it represents their entire experience and identifies barriers, solutions, and opportunities at the point of delivery.

Conclusion

We propose a practical and iterative roadmap to advance PM and call for all stakeholders across the healthcare system to employ a collaborative, cocreated, patient‐centered methodology to close gaps and fully realize the potential of PM.
Minced skin grafts for chronic wounds compared to conventional mesh grafts
Authors: Sanches‐Pinto Débora C. , Eriksson Elof , Gomez David S. , Nunes Maria P. T. , Gemperli Rolf , Soriano Francisco G.
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

Skin grafting is the single most effective method to close a chronic wound. The current standard of care is to use meshed split thickness skin grafts. This entails the use of surgical instruments that need to be autoclaved and to have a power source, which usually requires an OR facility. The minced skin technique uses single use, presterilized instruments and the procedure can be done under local anesthesia, by a wound care practitioner, in a wound clinic, a physician's office or even at the bedside. The current study was designed to determine if the results from micrografting were non inferior to conventional mesh grafting.

Methods

In a prospective non inferiority study, 26 chronic ulcers were treated with micrografting (MSG) and 24 with conventional mesh grafts 1:3 (control group‐CG) in a total of 21 patients, 10 male and 11 female. The donor site areas in the MSG group were predetermined to 2.5 × 5 cm and the mesh grafts expansion was set at 1:3.

Results

In the first weeks postoperatively, micrograft healing initially lagged behind the conventional mesh grafts but at 60 days after grafting, all MSG wounds were healed. The MSG wounds had better pigmentation, less itching, and less scarring. The micrografting procedure was easy to learn and expeditious to perform. The MSG mean expansion was 9.1 compared to three times (CG).

Conclusion

The MSG procedure is not inferior to conventional mesh grafting, requires smaller donor sites, and can be done with single use instruments, under local anesthesia, with early discharge.
An extensive review on antifungal approaches in the treatment of mucormycosis
Authors: Chaudhari Hrushikesh S. , Palkar Omkar S. , Abha Mishra KM , Sethi Kalyan K.
Published: June 2023

During the period of COVID‐19, the occurrences of mucormycosis in immunocompromised patients have increased significantly. Mucormycosis (black fungus) is a rare and rapidly progressing fungal infection associated with high mortality and morbidity in India as well as globally. The causative agents for this infection are collectively called mucoromycetes which are the members of the orderMucorales. The diagnosis of the infection needs to be performed as soon as the occurrence of clinical symptoms which differs with types ofMucoralesinfection. Imaging techniques magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography scan, culture testing, and microscopy are the approaches for the diagnosis. After the diagnosis of the infection is confirmed, rapid action is needed for the treatment in the form of antifungal therapy or surgery depending upon the severity of the infection. Delaying in treatment declines the chances of survival. In antifungal therapy, there are two approaches first‐line therapy (monotherapy) and combination therapy. Amphotericin B (1) and isavuconazole (2) are the drugs of choice for first‐line therapy in the treatment of mucormycosis. Salvage therapy with posaconazole (3) and deferasirox (4) is another approach for patients who are not responsible for any other therapy. Adjunctive therapy is also used in the treatment of mucormycosis along with first‐line therapy, which involves hyperbaric oxygen and cytokine therapy. There are some drugs like VT‐1161 (5) and APX001A (6), Colistin, SCH 42427, and PC1244 that are under clinical trials. Despite all these approaches, none can be 100% successful in giving results. Therefore, new medications with favorable or little side effects are required for the treatment of mucormycosis.
Platelet‐rich plasma ameliorates neurotoxicity induced by silver nanoparticles in male rats via modulation of apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress
Authors: Elmongy Noura Fathy , Meawad Samah Baleegh , Elshora Shimaa Zakaria , Atwa Asmaa Huessiny , Hammad Amal Mahmoud , Mehanna Osama Mahmoud , Ashry Walaa Mohamed
Published: June 2023

The widespread use of silver in various forms raises concerns about its potential adverse effects. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can enter the brain and subsequently induce neurotoxicity. As a source of diverse growth factors and for its cytoprotective properties, platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has received considerable attention in regenerative medicine. Our aim was to estimate the toxic effects of AgNPs on the rat brain and assess the possible protective effects of PRP against AgNPs induced neurotoxicity. A total of 40 adult male rats were divided into four groups (n = 10), namely the control, AgNPs, AgNPs+PRP, and auto‐recovery groups. AgNPs were given intraperitoneally (i.p.) at a 10 mg/kg dose.bw daily for 28 days. PRP was given (a day after AgNPs treatment) i.p. at a dose of 0.5 mL/kg.bw twice weekly for 3 weeks. Rats in the auto‐recovery group were left without treatment for 3 weeks after AgNP toxicity. Serum and brain tissue samples were collected for assessment of proinflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, as well as the expression levels of apoptotic markers. Brain histopathological and immunohistochemistry examinations were done. AgNPs significantly increased oxidative stress markers and proinflammatory cytokines, decreased antioxidant defense markers, and induced apoptosis and histopathological brain injuries. However, PRP treatment restored brain oxidant/antioxidant balance, attenuated the inflammatory state, prevented apoptosis, and improved the brain histopathological lesions induced by AgNPs, with no significant improvements shown by auto‐recovery group. Our data provided a novel protective effect for PRP against AgNPs‐induced neurotoxicity due to its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects.
Chemical bonding of HF, HCl, and H2O onto YF3 surfaces: Quantification by first principles
Authors: Anders Jennifer , Wiedenhaupt Henrik , Kreuter Florian , Tonner‐Zech Ralf , Paulus Beate
Published: June 2023

The surfaces of waimirite β‐have been studied for their fluorine and chlorine versus water affinity. Bonding patterns of HF, HCl, and chemically adsorbed onto surfaces of (010), (100), (011), and (101) have been quantified by density functional theory applying energy decomposition analysis. We found that the adsorption of is dominated by about 65% of electrostatics, which causes a low surface sensitivity and weak interactions. On the contrary, the adsorptions of HF and HCl are driven by strong hydrogen bonds resulting in a highly surface‐dependent ratio of 30–60% electrostatic versus orbital contribution. Among the stoichiometric surfaces, the shortest and strongest hydrogen bonds and consequently most covalent bonding patterns are found within HCl. However, when including the preparation energy, each surface favors the adsorption of HF over HCl, which reproduces the higher affinity of yttrium towards fluoride over chloride, previously known for solutions, also for the solid state.
Squawks as an important physical finding for differentiation of diffuse panbronchiolitis from asthma in children: A case report
Authors: Okumura Hisatoshi , Kawashima Atsushi , Hanamoto Akiko
Published: June 2023

Diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB) is an idiopathic chronic inflammatory pulmonary disease clinically characterized by cough, sputum, and chronic sinusitis. Although the average age of onset is 40 years, DPB occasionally occurs in children and is often misdiagnosed as asthma. Long‐term therapy with macrolide antibiotics significantly improves survival in DPB. Herein, we report the case of a 16‐year‐old man who had been treated for asthma and was referred to our department as transition from the Department of Pediatrics. Adequate auscultation to detect squawks and history taking of purulent sputum led to the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which improved his quality of life.
Ontogenetic morphometry of the brown smoothhound sharkMustelus henleiwith implications for ecology and evolution
Authors: Gayford Joel H. , Godfrey Hana , Whitehead Darren A.
Published: June 2023

The central tenet of ecomorphology links ecological and morphological variation through the process of selection. Traditionally used to rationalise morphological differences between taxa, an ecomorphological approach is increasingly being utilised to study morphological differences expressed through ontogeny. Elasmobranchii (sharks, rays and skates) is one clade in which such ontogenetic shifts in body form have been reported. Such studies are limited to a relatively small proportion of total elasmobranch ecological and morphological diversity, and questions remain regarding the extent to which ecological selection are driving observed morphometric trends. In this study, we report ontogenetic growth trajectories obtained via traditional linear morphometrics from a large data set of the brown smoothhound shark (Mustelus henlei). We consider various morphological structures including the caudal, dorsal and pectoral fins, as well as several girth measurements. We use an ecomorphological approach to infer the broad ecological characteristics of this population and refine understanding of the selective forces underlying the evolution of specific morphological structures. We suggest that observed scaling trends inM. henleiare inconsistent with migratory behaviour, but do not contradict a putative trophic niche shift. We also highlight the role of predation pressure and sex‐based ecological differences in driving observed trends in morphometry, a factor which has previously been neglected when considering the evolution of body form in sharks.
Relationship between SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination and cases, program breakthrough cases, and deaths in Dois Vizinhos, Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Vasconcelos Marina Wust , de Barros Flavia Regina Oliveira , Pilonetto Jéssica Cousseau , Rosa Schelder Gabriel Bertoncello , Gonçalves Sandrieli , Kuhn Betty Cristiane , De Assis Leite Deborah Catharine , Perseguini Juliana Morini Küpper Cardoso , Gabiatti Naiana Cristine , Wendt Simone Neumann , Ghisi Nédia de Castilhos
Published: June 2023

Several vaccines have been produced in 2 years of the COVID‐19 pandemic to control the infection outbreak. This study demonstrated the success of vaccination in controlling COVID‐19 cases and deaths in a small city (41 424 people) with a low population density in Brazil. This study was based on a 1‐year dataset since the application of the first dose in January 2021. The results show a reduction in positive cases and deaths as the vaccination coverage increased in the city, mainly after 15 000 inhabitants were vaccinated (35.21% of the population) in July 2021. At the time, 49.06% of administered vaccines were ChAdOx1‐S recombinant, 39.80% inactivated SARS‐CoV‐2 virus (CZ02 strain), 9.70% Tozinameran, and 1.44% Ad26.COV2‐S recombinant. From August 2021, a marked reduction in daily positive cases and deaths was observed, and incidence (≤2.49 per 1000 inhabitants) and mortality (≤0.02 per 1000 inhabitants) rates remained stabilized until January 2022, when a new outbreak occurred upon the emergence of the Omicron variant. However, the mortality rate (0.07 per 1000 inhabitants) remained low regardless of the Omicron high incidence rate (68.41 per 1000 inhabitants). These data demonstrate the COVID‐19 vaccination effectiveness with a threshold of 35.21% of the population vaccinated in this city model.
Nationwide epidemiologic and genetic surveillance of hepatitis E in Japan, 2014–2021
Authors: Sugiyama Ryuichi , Takahara Osamu , Yahata Yuichiro , Kanou Kazuhiko , Nagashima Mami , Kiyohara Tomoko , Li Tian‐Cheng , Arima Yuzo , Shinomiya Hiroto , Ishii Koji , Muramatsu Masamichi , Suzuki Ryosuke
Published: June 2023

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging causative agent of acute hepatitis. To clarify the epidemiology of HEV and characterize the genetic diversity of the virus in Japan, nationwide enhanced surveillance and molecular characterization studies of HEV in Japan were undertaken from 2014 to 2021. In total, 2770 hepatitis E cases were reported, of which 88% were domestic cases, while only 4.1% represented cases following infection abroad. In addition, 57% of domestic infections occurred in males aged in their 40s–70s. For domestic cases, infection via pork meat consumption continued to be the most reported route. Analysis of the 324 sequences detected between 2016 and 2021 showed that the majority of domestic HEV strains belong to Genotype 3a (G3a) and G3b. In contrast, six of eight cases of G1 HEV reflected infection abroad. Our results suggest that HEV is circulating widely in Japan, with genotypes G3a and G3b being most prevalent. Continued surveillance is necessary to monitor future trends and changes in the epidemiology of HEV in Japan.
Nutrition in the intensive care unit and early recovery influence functional outcomes for survivors of critical illness: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Jubina Lindsey E. , Locke Alleyna , Fedder Kelly R. , Slone Stacey A. , Soper Melissa K. , Kalema Anna G. , Montgomery‐Yates Ashley A. , Mayer Kirby P.
Published: June 2023

Background

Patients who are critically ill may receive suboptimal nutrition that leads to weight loss and increased risk of functional deficits.

Methods

Our overarching hypothesis is that nutrition in the intensive care unit (ICU) and the early recovery phase associates with functional outcomes at short‐term follow‐up. We enrolled adult patients who attended the University of Kentucky ICU recovery clinic (ICU‐RC) from November 2021 to June 2022. Patients participated in muscle and functional assessments. Nutrition intake and status during the ICU stay were analyzed. The Subjective Global Assessment and a nutrition questionnaire were used to identify changes in intake, ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms, and patient's access to food at the ICU‐RC appointment.

Results

Forty‐one patients enrolled with a median hospital length of stay (LOS) of 23 days. Patients with 0 days of nil per os (NPO) status throughout hospitalization had a shorter LOS (P = 0.05), were able to complete the five times sit‐to‐stand test (P = 0.02), and were less likely to experience ICU‐acquired weakness (P = 0.04) at short‐term follow‐up compared with patients with ≥1 day of NPO status. Twenty (48%) patients reported changes in nutrition intake in early recovery compared with before hospitalization. Eight (20%) patients reported symptoms leading to decreased intake and four (10%) reported access to food as a barrier to intake.

Conclusion

Barriers to nutrition exist during critical illness and persist after discharge, with almost half of patients reporting a change in intake. Inpatient nutrition intake is associated with functional outcomes and warrants further exploration.
Complementary effects of sorption and biochemical processing of dissolved organic matter for emerging structure formation controlled by soil texture
Authors: Bucka Franziska B. , Felde Vincent J. M. N. L. , Peth Stephan , Kögel‐Knabner Ingrid
Published: June 2023

Background

Percolating dissolved organic matter (DOM) from the topsoil is considered the main source of subsoil organic carbon (OC) in temperate soils, but knowledge about its influence on OC storage and structure‐forming processes is limited.

Aims

We conducted a 30‐day incubation experiment with artificial soils to study the effects of percolating DOM and soil texture on OC turnover and initial structure formation.

Methods

Artificial soils with contrasting texture, but identical mineral composition, were used to mimic subsoil conditions, where mineral surfaces free of OM come into contact with percolating DOM. After the incubation, we assessed the solution exchange, OM covers on minerals, microbial community and OC turnover, and aggregate formation and stability.

Results

A higher sand content caused a lower porosity, accompanied by a lower moisture content. In contrast, the OC retention (21% of the OC input), microbial activity, and community size were unaffected by soil texture. The OM covered 10% of the mineral surfaces within an otherwise OC‐free mineral matrix. The formation of large, water‐stable aggregates occurred in all soils, but was pronounced in the clay‐rich soils (58% mass contribution), which also supported a higher mechanical stability of the aggregates.

Conclusions

The initial retention and microbial mineralization of DOM are decoupled from pore sizes and soil solution exchange but are driven by the mineral composition and OC input. The biochemical processing of the percolating DOM can induce large aggregates. Here, the presence of fine mineral particles enhances the formation and mechanical stability of the aggregates, irrespective of their surface charge or sorptive properties.
Raman spectroscopy of yellow organic pigments of large Korean Buddhist paintings from the late Joseon dynasty (17th–19th centuries)
Authors: Lee Na Ra , Yun Ji Hyeon , Kim So Jin
Published: June 2023

The yellow coloring of the organic and inorganic pigments used in large Buddhist paintings during the late Joseon dynasty (17th–19th centuries) is herein analyzed using Raman spectroscopy and non‐invasive component analysis via p‐XRF. p‐XRF analyses of 194 yellow points on 12 large Buddhist paintings confirmed the use of gold, orpiment, and organic pigments; however, the yellow chromophoric elements of the organic pigments were not detected. The confirmed colors ranged from light yellow (close to white) to bright and dark yellow, but microscopic analysis revealed no particles or crystals. Accurate identification of pigments comprising light elements or organic compounds is challenging, which limits their identification via p‐XRF. In contrast, Raman spectroscopy of the samples presumed to be organic pigments detected gamboge in the samples, either alone, mixed with a white inorganic pigment such as lead white to express yellow, or overlaid upon such a pigment. These results demonstrate the utility of Raman spectroscopy in the analysis of organic pigments and provide a guide for the identification of coloring materials used in cultural heritage artifacts.
Inhibitory effects of the anthocyanins from Lycium ruthenicum Murray on angiotensin‐I‐converting enzyme: in vitro and molecular docking studies
Authors: Lu Lu , Mi Jia , Jin Bo , Zhang Lutao , Luo Qing , Li Xiaoying , Yan Yamei , Cao Youlong
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Lycium ruthenicum Murray (LRM), a perennial shrub plant belonging to the Solanaceae family, is rich in anthocyanins, which have anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, lipid‐lowering, intestinal flora regulating, and other pharmacological qualities. This study was primarily aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of different anthocyanin purities from LRM on angiotensin‐I‐converting enzyme (ACE) activity in vitro. Moreover, the inhibitory mechanism was further analyzed by molecular docking technology.

RESULTS

Two main anthocyanin isomers were identified by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and proton/carbon‐13 nuclear magnetic resonance, namely petunidin‐3‐O‐[rhamnopyranosyl‐(trans‐p‐coumaroyl)]‐5‐O‐(β‐d‐glucopyranoside) (trans‐Pt3R5G) and petunidin‐3‐O‐[rhamnopyranosyl‐(cis‐p‐coumaroyl)]‐5‐O‐(β‐d‐glucopyranoside) (cis‐Pt3R5G), with a molar ratio of 9:1. Three purification grades of Pt3R5G all showed excellent inhibitory effects on ACE, with the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values being 0.562, 0.421, and 0.106 mg·mL−1. Increasing the purity may reduce the IC50 within a certain concentration range. An enzymatic kinetic experiment showed that the inhibitory effect of Pt3R5G on ACE was reversible and non‐competitive: Pt3R5G and substrate were not in competition for the active sites of ACE. Molecular docking technology further revealed the possible mechanism was that Pt3R5G and ACE amino acid residues were interacting by hydrogen bonds to exert the inhibitory effect.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that Pt3R5G from LRM was highly effective at inhibiting ACE activity in vitro, with the hydrogen bonds of Pt3R5G and ACE amino acid residues exerting the inhibition. As a potential plant‐based ACE inhibitor, Pt3R5G can be used as a functional ingredient for antihypertensive effects. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.