bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusion coefficients of CO2–SO2–water and CO2–N2–water systems and their impact on the CO2sequestration process: Molecular dynamics and dissolution process simulations
Authors: Omrani Sina , Mahmoodpour Saeed , Rostami Behzad , Salehi Sedeh Mehdi , Sass Ingo
Published: May 2021

The high cost of the CO2sequestration in saline aquifers is a barrier to the implementation of them. However, a large portion of the cost is invested to purify and transport the CO2from the flue gas stream of the emission sources. Therefore, the possibility of injecting impure CO2will reduce the costs strongly. The diffusion coefficient is an important factor that plays a significant role in different aspects of the process. In spite of its importance, it is got less attention due to complex experimental procedures and low range of temperature and pressure applicability in the experimental conditions. To shed light on the effects of the impurity on the diffusion coefficient of CO2‐water systems, two types of impurities (SO2and N2) in two levels are considered in this study through the molecular dynamics simulation approach. Simulations are done on a wide range of pressure and temperature conditions to cover a wide range of operational conditions for CO2sequestration projects. The outcomes of these simulations were used in the direct numerical simulations to analyze the effect of the diffusion coefficient matrix changes on the CO2dissolution process such as dissolution flux, the motion and shape of convective fingers, and their patterns. Results indicate that impurity has a great impact on the diffusion coefficient, and consequently on the CO2dissolution behavior. We hope that reported results will pave the way for future studies regarding impure CO2sequestration in saline aquifers. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of smoking on stage‐specific survival in human papilloma virus–associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Horwich Peter , Gundale Abhijit , Patin Stephen , Flores Jose , Moore Medlin Tara , Chang Brent A. , Nathan Cherie‐Ann O.
Published: May 2021

Background

The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) released a new staging system for human papilloma virus (HPV) positive oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) in their eighth edition. The role of smoking in HPV positive oropharyngeal cancer remains controversial and is not factored into the updated staging system.

Methods

Single institutional, retrospective chart review of patients with HPV positive OPC from 2009 to 2017 was completed. Dichotomized smoking data were collected into 0–9 and ≥10 pack‐year histories. Kaplan–Meier survival curves compared overall survival (OS) for smokers and nonsmokers.

Results

Five‐year OS was not statistically different in stage I or stage II HPV positive OPC comparing nonsmokers versus smokers, but worse in stage III smokers (38% vs. 76%, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Greater than 10 pack‐year smoking status may negatively affect survival in late stage HPV positive OPC but not in early stage disease. HPV positive smokers may require additional risk stratification.
Lewis Acid‐Mediated Decarboxylative Allylation of Enol Carbonates
Authors: Dokai Yoichi , Nishizawa Takuma , Saito Kodai , Yamada Tohru
Published: May 2021

A homoallylic ketone can be transformed and functionalized by various synthetic reactions, and thus, is regarded as one of the representative building blocks in organic chemistry. An additional route to access homoallylic ketones, namely, a Lewis acid‐mediated decarboxylative allylation of cyclic enol carbonates, prepared by fixation of carbon dioxide onto propargyl alcohols, was developed in this work. The treatment of a cyclic enol carbonate with a Lewis acid in the presence of an allylsilane resulted in the formation of a homoallylic ketone. It was found that the title reaction proceeded well by the combined use of zirconium tetrachloride with allyltrimethylsilane. The allylation occurred with high regioselectivity and the corresponding homoallylic ketones were obtained in good‐to‐high yields. A reaction mechanism involving the decarboxylative formation of an oxyallyl cation equivalent is proposed.
Sensitization profile to sawtooth oak component allergens and their clinical implications
Authors: Jeong Kyoung Yong , Lee Jongsun , Sang Min Kyu , Lee Yong Seok , Park Kyung Hee , Lee Jae‐Hyun , Park Jung‐Won
Published: May 2021

Objective

The component allergens from sawtooth oak, which is a main cause of tree pollinosis in Korea, have not been extensively characterized except Que ac 1. This study was undertaken to characterize the allergenic components from sawtooth oak pollen and investigate the diagnostic values of each component allergen.

Methods

Transcriptomic analysis was performed to identify the birch pollen allergen homologues from sawtooth oak pollen. Recombinant Que ac 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8 were produced in an E. coli expression system. IgE reactivity to each allergen was examined by ImmunoCAP and ELISA using the sera of 50 Korean tree pollinosis patients.

Results

Six birch pollen allergen homologues were identified using transcriptome analysis, as follows: Que ac 1 (54.8% identity to Bet v 1), Que ac 2 (79.7% to Bet v 2), Que ac 3 (24.9% to Bet v 3), 6 (71.3% to Bet v 6), Que ac 7 (80.9% to Bet v 7), and Que ac 8 (78.9% to Bet v 8). Que ac 1 sIgE was the most frequently recognized (84.0%), followed by Que ac 2 (12.0%), Que ac 3 (6.0%), and three other allergens (2.0% each). Que ac 1 was a dominant allergen affecting 83.7% of patients suffering from allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, and 92.9% of pollen food allergy syndrome patients.

Conclusion

Five novel IgE reactive components of sawtooth oak were characterized using transcriptome analysis. Que ac 1 is the single most important component allergen of sawtooth oak pollen.
Engaging unhoused community members in the design of an alternative first responder program aimed at reducing the criminalization of homelessness
Authors: Townley Greg , Sand Kaia , Kindschuh Thea , Brott Holly , Leickly Emily
Published: May 2021

Police are often called to address concerns about people experiencing homelessness, with arrests often resulting from low‐level, nonviolent crimes, and violations of minor nuisance ordinances. In Portland, Oregon, advocates lobbied for a new model of emergency response for 911 calls involving unhoused community members and people experiencing behavioral health crises. To ensure the program reflected the needs and perspectives of people experiencing homelessness, teams of researchers, community volunteers, and people with lived experience interviewed 184 people in camps, shelters, and parks. Teams asked unhoused people how the program should be designed, including who the first responders should be, how they should approach individuals in crisis, what resources they should provide, and how they should be trained. This article describes the methods, findings, and recommendations from our collaborative survey process aimed at ensuring that the voices of people experiencing homelessness informed the development of the Portland Street Response pilot program.
Comparative evaluation of Panbio and SD Biosensor antigen rapid diagnostic tests for COVID‐19 diagnosis
Authors: Pérez‐García Felipe , Romanyk Juan , Moya Gutiérrez Helena , Labrador Ballestero Andrea , Pérez Ranz Inés , González Arroyo Javier , González Ventosa Victoria , Pérez‐Tanoira Ramón , Domingo Cruz Concepción , Cuadros‐González Juan
Published: May 2021

The aim of our study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of two antigen rapid diagnostic tests (Ag‐RDTs) to diagnose severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. We evaluated Panbio and SD‐Biosensor Ag‐RDTs. We employed 186 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) negative samples to evaluate the specificity and 170 PCR positive samples to assess the sensitivity. We evaluated their sensitivity according to Cycle threshold (C
t) values and days post onset of symptoms (d.p.o.). Tests were compared using the McNemar's test. Agreement was evaluated using the kappa score. Specificity was 100% for Panbio and 97.3% for SD‐Biosensor. Sensitivity for samples with C
t ≤ 20 was 100% for both assays and for samples with C
t = 20–25 was 93.0% (Panbio) and 95.3% (SD‐Biosensor) (p =  1.000). Sensitivity decreased for samples wit C
t = 25–30 (Panbio: 41.3%, SD‐Biosensor: 52.2%, p = 0.125) and samples with C
t ≥ 30 (Panbio: 5.0%, SD‐Biosensor: 17.5%, p = 0.063). Sensitivity within seven d.p.o. was 87.7% for Panbio and 90.4% for SD‐Biosensor and notably decreased after seven d.p.o. Agreement with PCR was excellent for high viral load samples (C
t ≤ 25): Panbio, 98.9%, kappa = 0.974; SD‐Biosensor, 97.4%, kappa = 0.940. Agreement between Ag‐RDTs was excellent (94.9%, kappa = 0.882). Panbio and SD‐Biosensor Ag‐RDTs showed excellent agreement and diagnostic performance results for samples with high viral loads (C
t ≤ 25) or samples within seven d.p.o.
Multiband microstrip patch antenna using copper nano radiating element for X band and C band applications
Authors: Chinnagurusamy Balamurugan , Perumalsamy Marichamy
Published: May 2021

Modern wireless applications necessitate compact handheld devices capable of operating at wide range of frequencies with minimum power. A suitable choice and size of the antenna play a role in reducing the power consumption of the transceivers. Microstrip antenna is usually preferred for such transceivers operating at microwave frequencies because of low profile and easy installation. In this paper, a design of microstrip patch antenna using copper nano material fabricated with sputtering process is proposed and analyzed by its performance. The thickness of the microstrip antenna is reduced by 50 times compared to the antenna fabricated using conventional etching process. The performance of the antenna is evaluated using the metrics of Return Loss, VSWR, and Radiation Pattern. The proposed antenna achieves a return loss of −20 dB at 2.4GHz. Further, the return loss is less than −10 dB for the frequencies ranging from 5 to 17 GHz. The maximum gain of 10 dB is achieved at 15.5 GHz.
Melatonin as a plant biostimulant in crops and during post‐harvest: a new approach is needed
Authors: Arnao Marino B , Hernández‐Ruiz Josefa
Published: May 2021

A great amount of data covering a wide variety of plant species and experimental conditions has demonstrated the beneficial actions that melatonin exerts on many aspects of plant development, including germination, photosynthesis and water economy. Melatonin behaves especially well as a plant biostimulator against biotic and abiotic stressors, increasing stress tolerance. The present contribution sets out possible future multidisciplinary studies, in which the impact of using melatonin with respect to agriculture, food technology, human nutrition and the environment needs to be clearly established. In crops, the effective dose and best formulations for individual plant species and cultivation conditions should be studied. As regards post‐harvest, the focus should be on the half‐life time of melatonin in fruits and water‐residue treatments. Detailed studies are lacking on the human intake of phytomelatonin in different diets. Studies on the metabolization of phytomelatonin and the combined effect with other phytonutrients such as carotenoids, chlorophylls, flavonoids, fibers, etc., would also be of interest. In soils, the possible interaction between melatonin and microbiome and non‐vertebrate animals is of primordial interest. In terms of the environment, although melatonin is classified as a non‐hazardous agent, its limitations as a possible animal hormone disruptor have been suggested. Specific studies on the permanence of melatonin in plant tissues, plant by‐products, soil, freshwater and honeybees, amongst others, are proposed to obtain crucial information. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Thyroglobulin as a negative marker for malignancy in canine and human breast tumors
Authors: Hwang Sung‐Hyun , Yang Yeseul , Woo Sang‐Ho , Jung Jae‐Ha , Seo Dansong , Kim Dae‐Yong , Kim Yongbaek
Published: May 2021

Canine mammary gland tumors (CMTs) are the most common tumor type in female dogs. This study evaluated the expression pattern and role of thyroglobulin (Tg) in CMT and in human breast cancer (HBC). CMT samples were subjected to fine‐needle aspiration, primary cell culture, and histopathology. The expression level of Tg was higher in benign CMT than in malignant CMT (mCMT) primary cells, particularly in the epithelial lineage. Moreover, treatment with Tg enhanced the sensitivity of doxorubicin in mCMT epithelial cells and mitigated proinflammatory response by increasing nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2). The proximal region of the Tg promoter was hypermethylated in mCMT epithelial cells, silencing Tg expression with concurrent downregulation of Nrf2‐mediated antioxidant signaling. An identical pattern of Tg expression was observed in cytological and tissue samples. Tissue microarray analysis showed that Tg was highly expressed in normal and benign tissues when compared with their malignant counterparts, which was diminished along with higher histological grades. The survival rate was significantly higher in HBC patients with high Tg expression than those with low Tg expression. This study also showed that the progression of HBC is accompanied by the reduction of Tg expression along with augmentation of proinflammatory signaling. Our data suggested that Tg could be a negative indicator of malignancy in canine and human breast neoplasia
VGLL4 inhibits YAP1/TEAD signaling to suppress the epidermal squamous cell carcinoma cancer phenotype
Authors: Mickle McKayla , Adhikary Gautam , Shrestha Suruchi , Xu Wen , Eckert Richard L.
Published: May 2021

Epidermal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) develops in response to ultraviolet light exposure and is among the most common cancers. The transglutaminase 2 cancer cell survival protein stimulates the activity of the YAP1/TEAD transcription complex to drive the expression of genes that promote aggressive epidermal SCC cell invasion, migration, and tumor formation. Therefore, we are interested in mechanisms that may inhibit these events. Vestigial‐like protein‐4 (VGLL4) is a transcription cofactor/tumor suppressor that inhibits several pro‐cancer pathways including YAP1 signaling. Our present studies show that VGLL4 inhibits YAP1/TEAD‐dependent transcription to reduce the expression of YAP1 target genes (CCND1, CYR61, and CTGF) and pro‐cancer collagen genes (COL1A2 and COL3A1). We further show that loss of these YAP1 regulated genes is required for VGLL4 suppression of the cancer cell phenotype, as forced CCND1 or COL1A2 expression partially restores the aggressive cancer phenotype in VGLL4 expressing cells. Consistent with these findings, VGLL4 expression reduces tumor formation, and this is associated with reduced CCND1, CYR61, CTGF, COL1A2, and COL1A3 mRNA and protein levels, and reduced EMT marker expression. These findings indicate that VGLL4 suppresses the malignant epidermal SCC cancer phenotype by inhibiting YAP1/TEAD‐dependent pro‐cancer signaling.
α‐Synuclein in Plasma‐Derived Extracellular Vesicles Is a Potential Biomarker of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Stuendl Anne , Kraus Tanja , Chatterjee Madhurima , Zapke Björn , Sadowski Boguslawa , Moebius Wiebke , Hobert Markus A. , Deuschle Christian , Brockmann Kathrin , Maetzler Walter , Mollenhauer Brit , Schneider Anja
Published: May 2021

Background

Extracellular vesicles are small vesicles that are released from many cells, including neurons. α‐Synuclein has recently been described in extracellular vesicles derived from the central nervous system and may contribute to the spreading of disease pathology in α‐synuclein‐related neurodegeneration.

Objectives

We aimed to examine the potential diagnostic value of α‐synuclein in plasma extracellular vesicles from patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

Preanalytical variables were studied to establish an optimized assay for preparation of plasma extracellular vesicles and detection of extracellular vesicle–derived α‐synuclein. Plasma samples were obtained from 2 independent cohorts. The Tübingen cohort contained 96 patients with PD, 50 patients with dementia with Lewy bodies, 50 patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and 42 healthy controls; the Kassel cohort included 47 patients with PD, 43 patients with dementia with Lewy bodies, and 36 controls with secondary parkinsonian syndromes. Extracellular vesicles were prepared from total plasma by size exclusion chromatography and quantified by nanoparticle tracking analysis, α‐synuclein content was measured by an electrochemiluminescence assay.

Results

α‐Synuclein concentration in plasma extracellular vesicles provided the best discrimination between PD, dementia with Lewy bodies, PSP, and healthy controls, with an area under the curve of 0.804 (PD vs dementia with Lewy bodies), 0.815 (PD vs. PSP), and 0.769 (PD vs healthy controls) in the Tübingen cohort. Results were validated in the Kassel cohort.

Conclusions

The concentration of α‐synuclein in plasma extracellular vesicles may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker for PD. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Fractional dynamics of huanglongbing transmission within a citrus tree
Authors: Kumar Pushpendra , Suat Ertürk Vedat , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy
Published: May 2021

The citrus epidemic huanglongbing (HLB), allied with an uncultured bacterial pathogen, is blusterous the industry of citrus worldwide. In this research work, we analysed a fractional huanglongbing model to study the transmission dynamics of the disease. We considered Caputo and new generalized form of Caputo type fractional derivatives to solve the proposed HLB model using two different methods. We exemplified the all necessary graphical observations by the call of real numerical data to show the nature of the given model classes. The analysis regarding to existence of the solution are mentioned with the help of theorems. We observed that the given numerical techniques are strong and worked well to show the dynamics of the model against the time variable.
Radio frequency identification in internet of underground things using a soil dielectric attenuator and microstrip antenna as tag sensor
Authors: de Melo Reuber R. , da Silva José P. , Queiroz Idalmir S.
Published: May 2021

This work proposes an underground things (UT) based on radio frequency identification for internet of UT (IoUT) systems. The UT is formed by a microstrip antenna encapsulated in a soil dielectric attenuator (SDA). The dimensions of the antenna and SDA are designed through simulations and a prototype is manufactured for experimentation in two types of soil. Reflection coefficient (S11) and received signal strength indicator (RSSI) measurements were performed to verify the viability of the prototype. The measured results of S11 showed satisfactory agreement with the simulations and the antenna encapsulated in the SDA has small variations in the resonance frequency in the presence of moisture. The RSSI results indicated the potential of UT as a soil moisture sensor.
Is a 50% improvement threshold adequate to justify progression from sacral neuromodulation testing to implant?
Authors: Charles David K. , Everett Ross G. , Prebay Zachary J. , Landowski Truman P. , O'Connor R. Corey , Guralnick Michael L.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

A ≥50% subjective improvement in urinary symptoms during sacral neuromodulation testing (SNM‐I) is currently used as the indication for progression to second‐stage implantation (SNM‐II). While most patients will have successful SNM‐I and proceed to SNM‐II, deterioration in efficacy over time has been reported. It remains unclear if the durability of efficacy is related to the initial symptom reduction. We sought to determine if the degree of improvement after SNM‐I is sufficient to predict long‐term success.

Methods

The records of all patients who underwent sacral neuromodulation (SNM) for overactive bladder were reviewed. Subjects were divided into those who reported 50%–75% improvement (Group 1) and more than 75% improvement (Group 2) after SNM‐I. Differences in clinical variables and long‐term device efficacy were compared between groups.

Results

Of 213 patients who underwent SNM‐I, 137 underwent permanent device implantation. A total of 76 (55%) and 61 (45%) patients reported 50%–75% (Group 1) and more than 75% (Group 2) symptomatic improvement, respectively. With a mean follow‐up of 46 months, 44% of Group 1 patients and 68% of Group 2 patients still had a functioning device providing the symptomatic benefit (p = 0.007). Univariate analyses identified the presence of stress urinary incontinence at baseline and having a more than 75% improvement after SNM‐I as predictors of long‐term functional success.

Conclusions

Compared to patients reporting 50%–75% symptomatic reduction after SNM‐I, individuals with a more than 75% improvement during SNM‐I were more likely to maintain device efficacy over time. Additional study is warranted to determine if the improvement threshold for progression to SNM‐II should be increased.
Relationship between the types of urinary incontinence, handgrip strength, and pelvic floor muscle strength in adult women
Authors: Bag Soytas Rabia , Soytas Mustafa , Danacioglu Yavuz O. , Citgez Sinharib , Yavuzer Hakan , Can Gunay , Onal Bulent , Doventas Alper
Published: May 2021

Aim

To investigate the relationship between handgrip strength with types of urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic floor muscle strength (PFMS) in women.

Methods

Ninety‐two women, who presented to the geriatric and urology outpatient clinics complaining of UI between July 2019 and February 2020 and had indicated to undergo urodynamic assessment after basic neurourological evaluation, were included in this cross‐sectional study. The presence and types of UI were identified by clinical examination and urodynamic studies. Demographic parameters, anthropometric data, comorbidities and medications were recorded. The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form was applied. Handgrip strength (HGS) was measured by a hand dynamometer. The PFMS was subjectively assessed via vaginal digital palpation and measured quantitatively by the vaginal probe of the perineometer.

Results

Thirty‐eight urodynamic stress, 28 detrusor overactivity, 26 urodynamic mixed UI patients were reported. Perineometer measurements were significantly lower in the urodynamic stress UI group compared to the other two groups (p = 0.020). There was no relationship between the types of urinary incontinence and HGS. However, a positive correlation was found between PFMS and HGS (p = 0.045, r = 0.298).

Conclusion

The positive correlation between HGS and PFMS indicates that low HGS may be a marker for PFMS weakness. Furthermore, the association between sarcopenia and UI may be explained by this condition.
Treatment Patterns and Outcomes in Chinese Patients with Gastric Cancer by HER2 Status: A Noninterventional Registry Study (EVIDENCE)
Authors: Qin Shukui , Ji Jiafu , Xu Rui-Hua , Wang Wei , Tang Yong , Bi Feng , Li Jin , Wang Kang , Xu Jian-ming , Fan Qingxia , Su Wuyun , Shen Lin
Published: May 2021

Background

Real-world safety and effectiveness data for trastuzumab plus chemotherapy treatment of patients with HER2-positive metastatic gastric cancer (mGC) in China are lacking.

Patients and Methods

EVIDENCE was a prospective, multicenter, noninterventional registry study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of trastuzumab in five cohorts of Chinese patients with gastric cancer, stratified by HER2 status and trastuzumab treatment. Effectiveness was analyzed for cohorts I (HER2-positive, trastuzumab treated), II (HER2-positive, trastuzumab untreated), and IV (HER2-negative, trastuzumab untreated); trastuzumab-related adverse events (AEs) were analyzed for cohort I.

Results

Cohorts I, II, and IV included 174, 113, and 422 patients, respectively. Most patients received first-line chemotherapy (87.6%). Median overall survival (OS1) for first-line treatment was 22.3, 17.2, and 17.4 months in cohorts I, II, and IV, respectively. After excluding patients who had surgery, respective median OS1 was 19.9, 15.3, and 12.9 months. Respective first-line progression-free survival (PFS1) was 8.2, 6.9, and 6.2 months; and respective first-line response rates (RR) were 51.7%, 18.4%, and 32.8%. Cohort I was significantly favored over cohort II for propensity score–matched first-line median OS1 (hazard ratio [HR], 0.61), PFS1 (HR, 0.64), and RR (odds ratio, 4.93). Trastuzumab-related AEs, grade 3–5 AEs, serious AEs, and AEs with a fatal outcome occurred in 23.6%, 3.4%, 2.3%, and 0.6% of cohort I patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Safety profiles were consistent with those known for trastuzumab and chemotherapy; trastuzumab treatment improved outcomes. Our study provides real-world data supporting first-line trastuzumab plus chemotherapy in Chinese patients with HER2-positive mGC.

Implications for Practice

This prospective, noninterventional registry study aimed to provide safety and effectiveness data for the use of trastuzumab in combination with chemotherapy in Chinese patients with HER2-positive metastatic gastric cancer (mGC) from the real-world clinical setting. Trastuzumab plus first-line chemotherapy was shown to be safe and to improve outcomes when compared with patients treated with chemotherapy alone. Trastuzumab was effective within a range of treatment regimens; subgroup analysis showed that trastuzumab paired most effectively with the XELOX regimen. This study provides real-world clinical safety and effectiveness data supporting the use of trastuzumab in the treatment of Chinese patients with HER2-positive mGC.
ε‐Aminocaproic acid versus tranexamic acid in children undergoing complex cranial vault reconstruction for repair of craniosynostosis
Authors: Borst Alexandra J. , Bonfield Christopher M. , Deenadayalan Poornachanda S. , Le Chi H. , Xu Meng , Sobey Jenna H. , Reddy Srijaya K.
Published: May 2021

Complex cranial vault reconstruction (CCVR) for pediatric craniosynostosis is a high blood loss surgery, for which antifibrinolytic agents have been shown to reduce bleeding and transfusion requirements. The relative efficacy of ε‐aminocaproic acid (EACA) versus tranexamic acid (TXA) has not yet been evaluated in this population. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare perioperative blood loss and transfusion in CCVR patients receiving EACA versus TXA. In a CCVR cohort of 95 children, 47 received EACA and 48 received TXA. We found no differences in demographics, adverse outcomes, calculated blood loss (CBL), or transfusion requirements between the two antifibrinolytic groups.
Decision making for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients with a hemoglobinopathy—Shared or not?
Authors: Mekelenkamp Hilda , Smiers Frans , Camp Nomie , Stubenrouch Fabienne , Lankester Arjan , de Vries Martine
Published: May 2021

Background

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) offers an established curative option for sickle cell disease (SCD) and thalassemia patients but is associated with significant risks. Decision making is a complex process and shared decision making (SDM) could be a fitting approach in case of such preference‐sensitive decisions. This study investigated what level of SDM is used in conversations with hemoglobinopathy patients and/or their caregivers considering HSCT as a curative treatment option.

Methods

Longitudinal, descriptive study using the Observing‐Patient‐Involvement‐in‐Decision‐Making scale (OPTION5) scale to determine the level of SDM in conversations with 26 hemoglobinopathy patients and/or their caregivers.

Results

The total mean OPTION5 score was 43%, which is a moderate SDM approach. There was no difference between conversations with thalassemia patients and SCD patients. Conversations needing an interpreter scored worse than nontranslated conversations. The best scoring OPTION5 item was item 3: “informing about the various treatment options” (mean score 2.3 on scale 0–4). For OPTION5 item 4: “eliciting patients’ preferences” a more skilled effort was measured for SCD patients compared to thalassemia patients.

Conclusions

The mean OPTION5 score of “moderate” was achieved mainly by giving information on available options, which is primarily a one‐way communication. The SDM process can be improved by actively inviting patients to deliberate about options and including their elicited preferences in decision making.
Radiogenomics prediction for MYCN amplification in neuroblastoma: A hypothesis generating study
Authors: Di Giannatale Angela , Di Paolo Pier Luigi , Curione Davide , Lenkowicz Jacopo , Napolitano Antonio , Secinaro Aurelio , Tomà Paolo , Locatelli Franco , Castellano Aurora , Boldrini Luca
Published: May 2021

Background

MYCN amplification represents a powerful prognostic factor in neuroblastoma (NB) and may occasionally account for intratumoral heterogeneity. Radiomics is an emerging field of advanced image analysis that aims to extract a large number of quantitative features from standard radiological images, providing valuable clinical information.

Procedure

In this retrospective study, we aimed to create a radiogenomics model by correlating computed tomography (CT) radiomics analysis with MYCN status. NB lesions were segmented on pretherapy CT scans and radiomics features subsequently extracted using a dedicated library. Dimensionality reduction/features selection approaches were then used for features procession and logistic regression models have been developed for the considered outcome.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients were included in this study, as training dataset, of which 24 presented MYCN amplification. In total, 232 radiomics features were extracted. Eight features were selected through Boruta algorithm and two features were lastly chosen through Pearson correlation analysis: mean of voxel intensity histogram (p = .0082) and zone size non‐uniformity (p = .038). Five‐times repeated three‐fold cross‐validation logistic regression models yielded an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.879 on the training set. The model was then applied to an independent validation cohort of 21 patients, of which five presented MYCN amplification. The validation of the model yielded a 0.813 AUC value, with 0.85 accuracy on previously unseen data.

Conclusions

CT‐based radiomics is able to predict MYCN amplification status in NB, paving the way to the in‐depth analysis of imaging based biomarkers that could enhance outcomes prediction.
The role of sex, age and genetic polymorphisms of CYP enzymes on the pharmacokinetics of anticholinergic drugs
Authors: Trenaman Shanna C. , Bowles Susan K. , Andrew Melissa K. , Goralski Kerry
Published: May 2021

There is evidence that use of drugs with anticholinergic properties increases the risk of cognitive impairment, and increased exposure to these drugs potentiates this risk. Anticholinergic drugs are commonly used even with associated risk of adverse events. Aging, sex, and genetic polymorphisms of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes are associated with alterations in pharmacokinetic processes, which increase drug exposure and may further increase the risk of adverse drug events. Due to the increasing burden of cognitive impairment in our aging population and the future of personalized medicine, the objective of this review was to provide a critical clinical perspective on age, sex, and CYP genetic polymorphisms and their role in the metabolism and exposure to anticholinergic drugs. Age‐related changes that may increase anticholinergic drug exposure include pseudocapillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, an approximate 3.5% decline in CYP content for each decade of life, and a reduction in kidney function. Sex‐related differences that may be influenced by anticholinergic drug exposure include women having delayed gastric and colonic emptying, higher gastric pH, reduced catechol‐O‐methyl transferase activity, reduced glucuronidation, and reduced renal clearance and men having larger stomachs which may affect medication absorption. The overlay of poor metabolism phenotypes for CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 may further modify anticholinergic drug exposure in a significant proportion of the population. These factors help explain findings of clinical trials that show older adults and specifically older women achieve higher plasma concentrations of anticholinergic drugs and that poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 experience increased drug exposure. Despite this knowledge neither age, sex nor CYP phenotype are routinely considered when making decisions about the use or dosing of anticholinergic medications. Future study of anticholinergic medication needs to account for age, sex and CYP polymorphisms so that we may better approach personalized medicine for optimal outcomes and avoidance of medication‐related cognitive impairment.
Prevalence and determinants of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication use during pregnancy: Results from the Quebec Pregnancy/Children Cohort
Authors: Lemelin Maxim , Boukhris Takoua , Zhao Jin‐Ping , Sheehy Odile , Bérard Anick
Published: May 2021

Aims

The use of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications has grown over the past decade among pregnant women, but these treatments are not without risk. Updated prevalence of ADHD medication use and whether prescribed dosages follow guidelines are needed. The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence of ADHD medication use among pregnant women—dosages and switches—and identify determinants of ADHD medication use.

Method

A population‐based longitudinal cohort study within the Quebec Pregnancy/Children Cohort (QPC). Women aged 15–45 years old covered by the RAMQ prescription drug plan for at least 12 months before and during pregnancy from 1998 to 2015. ADHD medication exposure was assessed before and during pregnancy. We estimated odds ratios (ORs) for determinants of ADHD medication use during pregnancy with generalized estimating equations.

Results

Among 428,505 included pregnant women, 1,130 (0.26%) used ADHD medication. A 14‐fold increase in the prevalence of ADHD medication use in pregnant women was observed, from 1998 (0.08%) to 2015 (1.2%). Methylphenidate was the most prevalent medication at 70.1%. ADHD medication fillings were at optimal dosage 91.8% of the time based on guidelines and 18.1% of women switched to another ADHD medication class during gestation. Main determinants of ADHD medication use during pregnancy were psychiatric disorders (aOR 2.19; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.57, 2.96), mood and anxiety disorders (aOR 1.74; 95% CI 1.32, 2.24), and calendar year.

Conclusions

The number of pregnancies exposed to ADHD medications has increased similarly to the increase reported in other countries between 1998 and 2015. In addition to the current literature, the use of ADHD medications during pregnancy is consistent with Canadian guidelines recommendations on dosage.
Selection bias, investment decisions and treatment effect distributions
Authors: Wiklund Stig Johan , Burman Carl‐Fredrik
Published: May 2021

When making decisions regarding the investment and design for a Phase 3 programme in the development of a new drug, the results from preceding Phase 2 trials are an important source of information. However, only projects in which the Phase 2 results show promising treatment effects will typically be considered for a Phase 3 investment decision. This implies that, for those projects where Phase 3 is pursued, the underlying Phase 2 estimates are subject to selection bias. We will in this article investigate the nature of this selection bias based on a selection of distributions for the treatment effect. We illustrate some properties of Bayesian estimates, providing shrinkage of the Phase 2 estimate to counteract the selection bias. We further give some empirical guidance regarding the choice of prior distribution and comment on the consequences for decision‐making in investment and planning for Phase 3 programmes.
On the daily cycle of mesoscale cloud organization in the winter trades
Authors: Vial Jessica , Vogel Raphaela , Schulz Hauke
Published: May 2021

How spatial organization of clouds at the mesoscale contributes to the daily cycle of shallow cumulus clouds and precipitation is here explored, for the first time, using three years of high‐frequency satellite‐ and ground‐based observations. We focus on the four prominent patterns of cloud organization – Sugar, Gravel, Flowers and Fish – which were found recently to characterize well the variability of the North Atlantic winter trades. Our analysis is based on a simple framework to disentangle the parts of the daily cycle of trade‐wind cloudiness that are due to changes in (a) the occurrence frequency of patterns, and (b) cloud cover for a given pattern. Our investigation reveals that the contribution of mesoscale organization to the daily cycle in cloudiness is largely mediated by the frequency of pattern occurrence. All forms of mesoscale organization exhibit a pronounced daily cycle in their frequency of occurrence, with distinct 24‐hr phasing. The patterns Fish and Sugar can be viewed as daytime patterns, with a frequency peak around noon for Fish and towards sunset for Sugar. The patterns Gravel and Flowers appear instead as night‐time patterns, with a peak occurrence around midnight for Gravel and before sunrise for Flowers. The cloud cover for a given pattern, however, always maximizes at night‐time (between 0000 and 0300 hr), regardless of the specific pattern. Analyses of the role of large‐scale environmental conditions shows that the near‐surface wind speed can explain a large part of the diurnal variability in pattern frequency and cloudiness.
Robot‐assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal Mainz Ⅱ rectosigmoid pouch for muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Wang Pengchao , Xiao Shuwei , Fu Weijun , Song Yong , Sun Shengkun , Zhang Fan , Shen Dan , Zhu Jie , Wang Zhongxin , Chen Jie , Qiao Jianguo , Zhang Xu
Published: May 2021

Background

To report the surgical techniques and results of robot‐assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal Mainz Ⅱ rectosigmoid pouch at our centre.

Methods

Two female patients were treated with this procedure. Construction of the pouch was divided into four main steps: incision of the rectum and sigmoid colon, closure of the posterior wall of the pouch, reimplantation of the ureters at the bottom of pouch in an anti‐reflux manner, and closure of the anterior wall. Surgical results and perioperative complications were assessed.

Results

The operations were performed completely intracorporeally. No perioperative complications were observed. Postoperatively, high‐grade invasive urothelial carcinoma was detected. On postoperative day 60, no bilateral ureteral dilation was detected. Two patients demonstrated total continence. Clinical recurrence was not observed during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

With careful patient selection, robot‐assisted intracorporeal Mainz Ⅱ rectosigmoid pouch might be a simple minimally invasive surgical technique to be evaluated in repeated applications.
Revisiting and generalizing the dual iteration for static and robust output‐feedback synthesis
Authors: Holicki Tobias , Scherer Carsten W.
Published: May 2021

The dual iteration was introduced in a conference paper in 1997 by Iwasaki as an iterative and heuristic procedure for the challenging and non‐convex design of static output‐feedback controllers. We recall in detail its essential ingredients and go beyond the work of Iwasaki by demonstrating that the framework of linear fractional representations allows for a seamless extension of the dual iteration to output‐feedback designs of practical relevance, such as the design of robust or robust gain‐scheduled controllers. In the paper of Iwasaki, the dual iteration is solely based on, and motivated by algebraic manipulations resulting from the elimination lemma. We provide a novel control theoretic interpretation of the individual steps, which paves the way for further generalizations of the powerful scheme to situations where the elimination lemma is not applicable. As an illustration, we extend the dual iteration to a design of static output‐feedback controllers with multiple objectives. We demonstrate the approach with numerous numerical examples inspired from the literature.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Synthesis of 1‐Indanone Skeleton: A Brief Update
Authors: Das Suven
Published: May 2021

Transition‐metal‐free carbon‐carbon bond forming reactions have drawn great interest because they are operationally simple, cost‐effective and environmentally benign. However, the construction of indanone core under metal‐free condition has been long‐standing challenges to organic chemists. In this article, recent advances (2015–2021) in transition‐metal‐free strategies towards 1‐indanone skeletons are reviewed and they are classified as acid‐catalyzed, base‐catalyzed, organocatalytic and catalyst‐free methods. In most cases, mechanisms for the transformations and stereochemical aspects of the product formation have been demonstrated.
Analysis, Design and Implementation of a Non‐isolated Switched Inductor/Capacitor Converter with Low Voltage Spikes
Authors: Jiang Wei , Zhang Shaoru , Du Xiuju , Yang Wenxiu , Luo Fang Lin
Published: May 2021

In order to take the advantage of boost capability and filtering characteristics of the switched inductor/capacitor, a non‐isolated switched inductor/capacitor (NSI/C) converter is proposed. The topological structure of the non‐isolated switched inductor/capacitor converter is analyzed in detail, and the DC steady‐state model is established in continuous conduction mode (CCM). The voltage gain of the converter and the stress of the switch in the converter are theoretically deduced and compared with the existing converters; the parameter design of the inductance and capacitance is calculated. The simulation model was built in MATLAB/Simulink, and the correctness of the theoretical calculation for the proposed converter was verified by simulation results. Finally, the experimental prototypes of the proposed converter and the non‐isolated high step‐up (NHS) converter were built. Through the comparison of experimental results, the feasibility and validity of the design scheme for the proposed converter are verified. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
First tick and tick damage perception survey among sedentary and transhumant pastoralists in Burkina Faso and Benin
Authors: Zannou Olivier M. , Ouedraogo Achille S. , Biguezoton Abel S. , Yao Kouassi Patrick , Abatih Emmanuel , Farougou Souaïbou , Lenaert Marc , Lempereur Laetitia , Saegerman Claude
Published: May 2021

Background

Transhumance, a main ancestral animal production strategy of the West African Countries (WAC), can favour the spread of vectors and vector‐borne diseases within and/or across countries. Transhumance has been implicated in such spread as well as that of related tick‐borne diseases (TBD).

Methods and principal findings

Using a questionnaire survey and statistical modelling, this study explores the perception of herders about ticks and TBD in cattle, their practices in tick control and the social groups involved in cattle farming in eastern Burkina Faso (46 random herds) and in the northern Benin (44 random herds). Results show that most of the herders (79%) are from the Fulani social group. The principal and secondary activities of herders are respectively cattle farming and agriculture. The mean age of pastoralists is between 40 and 50 years depending on the province of origin and 60% of the surveyed herds practice internal or transboundary transhumance. Herders have a clear knowledge of different genus of ticks except the genus Rhipicephalus. Their knowledge of TBD is very limited. These results also reveal that herders in Benin use less acaricides treatment calendar compared with those in Burkina Faso. Transhumant pastoralists (i.e. transhumant cattle farmers) plan more acaricide treatment and have more cows with lost teats (i.e. tick damage) than the sedentary ones. In addition, amitraz appears to be the main acaricide compound used by herders for tick control (68%) but its use is inappropriate and its source is frequently the unregulated market.

Conclusions and significance

All of these findings can induce acaricide resistance especially as the inefficacy of amitraz against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus has already been reported in previous studies. Such results would help to elaborate suitable strategies of control and prevention of ticks and TBD in Burkina Faso and Benin.
Validity and utility of Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP): II. Externalizing superspectrum
Authors: Krueger Robert F. , Hobbs Kelsey A. , Conway Christopher C. , Dick Danielle M. , Dretsch Michael N. , Eaton Nicholas R. , Forbes Miriam K. , Forbush Kelsie T. , Keyes Katherine M. , Latzman Robert D. , Michelini Giorgia , Patrick Christopher J. , Sellbom Martin , Slade Tim , South Susan C. , Sunderland Matthew , Tackett Jennifer , Waldman Irwin , Waszczuk Monika A. , Wright Aidan G.C. , Zald David H. , Watson David , Kotov Roman ,   HiTOP Utility Workgroup
Published: May 2021

The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) is an empirical effort to address limitations of traditional mental disorder diagnoses. These include arbitrary boundaries between disorder and normality, disorder co‐occurrence in the modal case, heterogeneity of presentation within dis­orders, and instability of diagnosis within patients. This paper reviews the evidence on the validity and utility of the disinhibited externalizing and antagonistic externalizing spectra of HiTOP, which together constitute a broad externalizing superspectrum. These spectra are composed of elements subsumed within a variety of mental disorders described in recent DSM nosologies, including most notably substance use disorders and “Cluster B” personality disorders. The externalizing superspectrum ranges from normative levels of impulse control and self‐assertion, to maladaptive disinhibition and antagonism, to extensive polysubstance involvement and personality psychopathology. A rich literature supports the validity of the externalizing superspectrum, and the disinhibited and antagonistic spectra. This evidence encompasses common genetic influences, environmental risk factors, childhood antecedents, cognitive abnormalities, neural alterations, and treatment response. The structure of these validators mirrors the structure of the phenotypic externalizing superspectrum, with some correlates more specific to disinhibited or antagonistic spectra, and others relevant to the entire externalizing superspectrum, underlining the hierarchical structure of the domain. Compared with traditional diagnostic categories, the externalizing superspectrum conceptualization shows improved utility, reliability, explanatory capacity, and clinical applicability. The externalizing superspectrum is one aspect of the general approach to psychopathology offered by HiTOP and can make diagnostic classification more useful in both research and the clinic.