bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term persistence of wildlife populations in a pastoral area
Authors: Kiffner Christian , Kioko John , Baylis Jack , Beckwith Camille , Brunner Craig , Burns Christine , Chavez‐Molina Vasco , Cotton Sara , Glazik Laura , Loftis Ellen , Moran Megan , O'Neill Caitlin , Theisinger Ole , Kissui Bernard
Published: August 2020

Facilitating coexistence between people and wildlife is a major conservation challenge in East Africa. Some conservation models aim to balance the needs of people and wildlife, but the effectiveness of these models is rarely assessed. Using a case‐study approach, we assessed the ecological performance of a pastoral area in northern Tanzania (Manyara Ranch) and established a long‐term wildlife population monitoring program (carried out intermittently from 2003 to 2008 and regularly from 2011 to 2019) embedded in a distance sampling framework. By comparing density estimates of the road transect‐based long‐term monitoring to estimates derived from systematically distributed transects, we found that the bias associated with nonrandom placement of transects was nonsignificant. Overall, cattle and sheep and goat reached the greatest densities and several wildlife species occurred at densities similar (zebra, wildebeest, waterbuck, Kirk's dik‐dik) or possibly even greater (giraffe, eland, lesser kudu, Grant's gazelle, Thomson's gazelle) than in adjacent national parks in the same ecosystem. Generalized linear mixed models suggested that most wildlife species (8 out of 14) reached greatest densities during the dry season, that wildlife population densities either remained constant or increased over the 17‐year period, and that herbivorous livestock species remained constant, while domestic dog population decreased over time. Cross‐species correlations did not provide evidence for interference competition between grazing or mixed livestock species and wildlife species but indicate possible negative relationships between domestic dog and warthog populations. Overall, wildlife and livestock populations in Manyara Ranch appear to coexist over the 17‐year span. Most likely, this is facilitated by existing connectivity to adjacent protected areas, effective anti‐poaching efforts, spatio‐temporal grazing restrictions, favorable environmental conditions of the ranch, and spatial heterogeneity of surface water and habitats. This long‐term case study illustrates the potential of rangelands to simultaneously support wildlife conservation and human livelihood goals if livestock grazing is restricted in space, time, and numbers.
Effect of 12‐week continuous positive airway pressure therapy on glucose levels assessed by continuous glucose monitoring in people with type 2 diabetes and obstructive sleep apnoea; a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Banghøj Anne Margareta , Krogager Christoffer , Kristensen Peter Lommer , Hansen Klavs Würgler , Laugesen Esben , Fleischer Jesper , Lebech Cichosz Simon , Poulsen Per Løgstrup , Glymer Kirkegaard Martin , Thorsteinsson Birger , Tarnow Lise
Published: August 2020

Aim

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is frequent in type 2 diabetes (T2D). The aim was to investigate the effect of a 12‐week treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on glycaemic control assessed by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), HbA1c and fasting blood glucose in patients with T2D and newly detected OSA.

Methods

In a randomized controlled multicentre study, 72 participants with T2D and moderate to severe OSA (78% male, age 62 ± 7, AHI 35 ± 15) were recruited from outpatient clinics in three Danish hospitals and were randomized to CPAP intervention or control. The main outcome was glycaemic control assessed by 6 days CGM at baseline and after 12‐week therapy, as well as by HbA1c and fasting blood glucose.

Results

No significant changes were found in average glucose levels, time in glucose range, time with hypoglycaemia, time with hyperglycaemia or coefficient of variability. HbA1c decreased 0.7 mmol/mol (0.07%; P = .8) in the CPAP group and increased 0.8 mmol/mol (0.08%; P = .6) in the control group (intergroup difference, P = .6). Fasting blood glucose increased by 0.2 mmol/L (P = .02) in the CPAP group and by 0.4 mmol/L (P = .01) in the control group (intergroup difference, P = .7). In a prespecified subgroup analysis comparing participants with high adherence (minimum usage of four hours/night for 70% of all nights) to CPAP to the control group, no significant changes were observed either, although these participants had a tendency towards better glycaemic indices.

Conclusions

CPAP treatment for 12 weeks does not significantly change glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes and OSA.
Accounting for false positive detections in occupancy studies based on environmental DNA: A case study of a threatened freshwater fish (Galaxiella pusilla)
Authors: Tingley Reid , Coleman Rhys , Gecse Nathaniel , van Rooyen Anthony , R. Weeks Andrew
Published: August 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling is a promising method for surveying aquatic fauna. Recent eDNA studies have investigated the likelihood of false negative errors in the laboratory and in the field, but the likelihood of false positives remains poorly studied. We investigated the likelihood of both types of errors in eDNA surveys of an Australian threatened freshwater fish (Galaxiella pusilla) using laboratory experiments, field surveys, and recent advances in hierarchical site occupancy‐detection modeling. Laboratory experiments revealed high primer/probe specificity; absence of sample contamination in extraction and qPCR blanks; and rapid accumulation and deterioration of eDNA in aquaria. Hierarchical site occupancy‐detection models fitted to pilot data collected at 13 wetlands revealed that two water samples, each with two qPCRs, would be required to achieve a cumulative detection probability >.95. A more comprehensive survey, in which we simultaneously used dip netting and eDNA sampling at 29 wetlands, revealed similar mean detection probabilities of the two sampling methods (trapping: 0.74 vs. eDNA: 0.68), and low probabilities of false positive errors at the water sample level (0.0080) and at the qPCR level (0.0039) for eDNA sampling. Collectively, our results illustrate that eDNA sampling can be a sensitive and specific method for monitoring the occurrence of freshwater fauna. Detection probabilities of eDNA sampling were comparable to those of a traditional sampling method, and probabilities of laboratory‐induced false positives were low. Future studies employing eDNA sampling should estimate, and properly account for, false positive errors in addition to false negatives.
Copper‐Promoted O‐Arylation of the Phenol Side Chain of Tyrosine Using Triarylbismuthines
Authors: Le Roch Adrien , Hébert Martin , Gagnon Alexandre
Published: August 2020

A general method for the O‐arylation of the side chain of tyrosine using triarylbismuth reagents is reported. The reaction is mediated by copper diacetate, operates at 50 °C under oxygen in dichloromethane in the presence of pyridine, shows excellent functional group compatibility, and retains the integrity of the stereogenic center. The protocol was used to arylate the tyrosine residue of dipeptides and tripeptides.
Catalytic Hydrosilylation of Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs): Synthesis of New Fluorinated Silanes and Diversity of their Synthetic Character
Authors: Pavlenko Natalia V. , Peng Sheng , Petrov Viacheslav , Jackson Andrew , Sun Xuehui , Sprague Lee , Yagupolskii Yurii L.
Published: August 2020

New polyfluorinated silanes were synthesized via the Pt, Rh and Pd catalyzed hydrosilylation of commercially available hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) in moderate to excellent yields. HFO‐1234yf (2,3,3,3‐tetrafluoropropene‐1) and –1234ze (1,3,3,3‐tetrafluoropropene‐1) were reactive with Pt catalyst to form tetrafluoropropylsilanes along with defluorosilylation products. The Z‐ and E‐isomers of HFO‐1336mzz (1,1,1,4,4,4‐hexafluorobut‐2‐ene) gave the desired silanes with Pd catalysis in good to excellent yields, while with Pt catalyst only the dehydrofluorination product CF2=CHCH2CF3 (HFO‐1345czf, 1,1,4,4,4‐pentafluorobut‐1‐ene) was obtained. Synthetic applications of the new polyfluorinated silanes were illustrated by conversion of dichloro(hexafluorobutyl)(methyl)silane to the cyclic trisiloxane, which can serve as a monomer for the preparation of polysiloxanes. In addition, the hexafluorobutylsilanes showed defluorinative reactivity with lithium reagents, thereby demonstrating their synthetic utility as valuable building blocks for further transformations via C–F and C‐Si bond activation.
PhI(OAc)2‐Promoted 1,2‐Diaza‐Cope Rearrangement of β,γ‐Unsaturated Hydrazones with Acetate/H2O: Access to Diacyl/Acyl N‐Allylhydrazines
Authors: Fang Zhuo‐Yue , Qi Lin , Song Jin‐Yan , Ren Pei‐Xing , Hou Cong‐Ying , Ji Shi‐Chao , Wang Li‐Jing , Li Wei
Published: August 2020

A novel metal‐free methodology for the synthesis of diacyl/acyl N‐allylhydrazines based on PhI(OAc)2‐promoted 1,2‐diaza‐Cope rearrangement reaction of β,γ‐unsaturated hydrazones with acetate/H2O has been described. This cascade reaction works efficiently under mild conditions. A possible mechanism involving hydrazonyl radicals and N–I(III) intermediates of β,γ‐unsaturated hydrazones is proposed.
Metal Organic Framework‐235 (MOF‐235) Modified Carbon Paste Electrode for Catechol Determination in Water
Authors: Batista Luiz Carlos Domingos , Santos Thiago Izidoro Silva , Santos José E. Lima , da Silva Djalma Ribeiro , Martínez‐Huitle Carlos A.
Published: August 2020

MOF‐235 is presented as an orange powder, with crystals of the octahedral formation. It was already used as adsorbent to remove different compounds from water; however, no attempts have been published about the exploration of the MOF‐235 application as electrochemical sensor for organic compounds yet. MOF‐235 was synthetized and after that, it was characterized by SEM, XRD and FTIR. Graphite electrodes (GEs) were modified with different MOF‐235 ratio (5 %, 7 %, 10 %, 12 % and 14 %) and these modified GEs were characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements in order to determine the effect of MOF‐235 concentration on the current response. Results indicated that, a significant improvement on the current response was attained at MOF‐235(10 %)/GE respect to unmodified GE. This behavior is related to the pore structure and multiple active sites on the MOF surface. The performance of the MOF‐235(10 %)/GE as electrochemical sensor for detecting catechol was assessed by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Catechol detection response of MOF‐based sensor provided a detection limit of about 12.79 μmol L−1 with a correlation coefficient (R2) of about 0.9928 ranging from 12 to 514 μmol L−1. Finally, MOF‐235(10 %)/GE was used to determine catechol in real water matrixes.
A Highly Sensitive and Selective Non‐enzymatic Hydrogen Peroxide Sensor Based on Nanostructured Co3O4 Thin Films Using the Sol‐gel Method
Authors: Khadhraoui Hanen , Othmani Abdelhak , Kouki Abdessalem , Zouaoui Mouldi
Published: August 2020

In this work we report an easy and efficient way to fabricate nanostructured cobalt oxide (Co3O4) thin films as a non‐enzymatic sensor for H2O2 detection. Co3O4 thin films were grown on ITO glass substrates via the sol‐gel method and characterized with several techniques including X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and optical absorbance. The Co3O4 thin films’ performance regarding hydrogen peroxide detection was studied in a 0.1 M NaOH solution using two techniques, cyclic voltammetry (CV) and amperometry. The films exhibited a high sensitivity of 1450 μA.mM−1.cm−2, a wide linear range from 0.05 μM to 1.1 mM, and a very low detection limit of 18 nM. Likewise, the Co3O4 thin films produced showed an exceptional stability and a high selectivity.
Genetic factors increasing barley grain yields under soil waterlogging
Authors: Liu Ke , Harrison Matthew Tom , Ibrahim Ahmed , Manik S. M. Nuruzzaman , Johnson Peter , Tian Xiaohai , Meinke Holger , Zhou Meixue
Published: August 2020

In‐crop soil waterlogging can be caused by extreme rainfall events, high ground water tables, excessive irrigation, lateral ground water flow, either individually or in concert, and together these factors inhibit potential grain yields. However, the extent to which yield is influenced by the timing and duration of waterlogging relative to crop phenology is unknown. To investigate this, we conducted a range of waterlogging treatments on modern barley genotypes differing in their waterlogging tolerance, with tolerance conferred through aerenchyma formation under oxygen deficit conditions. Experiment 1 was conducted in a controlled environment using four waterlogging treatments: waterlogging at Zadoks stage (ZS) 12.5 for 1 or 2 months (WL1 and WL2, respectively), waterlogging at ZS 15 for 2 months (WL3), and waterlogging initiated 1 day before heading for 15 days (WL4). Experiment 2 was conducted in the field with WL2. Averaged across experiments, yield was reduced by 35% in W1 to 52% in WL3 due to fewer spikes/m2 and kernels/spike. WL4 had the greatest impact on yield (70% reduction) due to its effect on spikelet fertility and grain filling. Phenology was delayed 1–8 ZS at the end of waterlogging treatments, with the waterlogging‐susceptible cultivar Franklin showing the greatest delays, and waterlogging tolerant genotypes (Macquarie+, TAMF169) capable of aerenchyma formation under waterlogging having the least delays (0–4 ZS). Genotypes with aerenchyma formation QTL (Macquarie+) showed nonsignificant yield reduction compared with nonwaterlogged controls, preventing 23% yield loss under early phenological waterlogging stress. Late growth stage waterlogging substantially reduced average final grain yield by 70%.
Knowledge co-production: A pathway to effective fisheries management, conservation, and governance
Authors: Cooke Steven J , Nguyen Vivian M , Chapman Jacqueline M , Reid Andrea J , Landsman Sean J , Young Nathan , Hinch Scott G , Schott Stephan , Mandrak Nicholas E , Semeniuk Christina AD
Published: August 2020

Although it is assumed that the outcomes from scientific research inform management and policy, the so-called knowledge–action gap (i.e., the disconnect between scientific knowledge and its application) is a recognition that there are many reasons why new knowledge is not always embraced by knowledge users. The concept of knowledge co-production has gained popularity within the environmental and conservation research communities as a mechanism of bridging the gap between knowledge and action, but has yet to be fully embraced in fisheries research. Here we describe what co-production is, outline its benefits (relative to other approaches to research) and challenges, and provide practical guidance on how to embrace and enact knowledge co-production within fisheries research. Because co-production is an iterative and context-dependent process, there is no single way to do it, but there are best practices that can facilitate the generation of actionable research through respectful and inclusive partnerships. We present several brief case studies where we describe examples of where co-production has worked in practice and the benefits it has accrued. As more members of the fisheries science and management community effectively engage in co-production, it will be important to reflect on the processes and share lessons with others. We submit that co-production has manifold benefits for applied science and should lead to meaningful improvements in fisheries management, conservation, and governance.
Bean‐based nutrient‐enriched puffed snacks: Formulation design, functional evaluation, and optimization
Authors: Natabirwa Hedwig , Nakimbugwe Dorothy , Lung'aho Mercy , Tumwesigye Kashub S. , Muyonga John H.
Published: August 2020

School‐age children frequently consume snacks. However, most of the snacks they consume are of low nutritional quality. The objective of this study was to develop a nutrient‐rich and acceptable extruded bean‐based snack, which could contribute to improved nutrient intake, especially for school‐age children. Snack formulations developed from Roba1 beans, maize, orange‐fleshed sweet potato, and amaranth mixtures, and processed in a twin‐screw extruder, were evaluated and optimized for nutritional, textural and sensory properties. High proportion of beans in the formulation was associated with high protein, iron, zinc, and dietary fiber content. An optimal formulation (82.03:10: 5:2.97; beans, maize, OFSP, amaranth), containing 20.38 g, 4.12 g, 4.83 mg, and 1.51 mg per 100 g, of protein, dietary fiber, iron, and zinc, respectively, was obtained. The snacks were crunchy and moderately acceptable with average sensory scores of 6 on a 9‐point hedonic scale, and hardness 26.6 N. Nutrient contribution 43, 19, and 12% for protein, iron, and zinc, respectively, to children aged 6 to 8 years; and 24, 19, and 7.6%, respectively, to children aged 9 to 12 years from a 40 g serving was estimated from the snack. The results demonstrate the potential of using extrusion to produce nutrient enriched value‐added food products from blends of iron‐rich beans and common staples.
Preventive use of gabapentin to decrease pain and systemic symptoms in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing chemoradiation
Authors: Smith Derek K. , Cmelak Anthony , Niermann Ken , Ghiam Michael , Lou Diane , Gilbert Jill , Gibson Michael K. , Hawkins Deborah , Murphy Barbara A.
Published: August 2020

Background

Radiation for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) is associated with painful mucositis that impacts the delivery of treatment and contributes to high symptom burden.

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized pilot trial. Eligible patients received primary or adjuvant chemoradiation. Patients were randomized to usual care vs usual care plus gabapentin titrated to drug tolerance during radiation. Patients completed a symptom survey at baseline and weekly during therapy.

Results

Seventy‐nine patients were enrolled in the study (38 control, 41 treatment). At interim analysis, gabapentin use resulted in a decrease in pain (P= .004), with the biggest decreases being in the latter weeks of therapy. By week 7, the median pain score in the treatment group was below the 0.25 quantile of the control group.

Conclusion

Prophylactic use of gabapentin during chemoradiation for HNC patients resulted in a decrease in pain, neurosensory symptoms, and general systemic symptoms.
Investigating primary preservice teachers’ ultraviolet radiation awareness and perceived ability to teach sun safety
Authors: Scott Joseph J. , Johnston Robyn , Blane Sally , Strickland Mark , Darby Jill , Gray Elin
Published: August 2020

Issue addressed

Sun protection practices in Australian primary schools remain inconsistent. Therefore, this study investigates primary PSTs sun protective sun behaviours, ultraviolet (UV) radiation awareness and perceived ability to teach sun safety.

Methods

A convenience sample of undergraduate PSTs (N = 275; mean age = 23.13 years) enrolled at one Western Australian university completed an online survey. Descriptive analyses provided features of the data. Factors associated with sun protection behaviours and perceived knowledge and skill to teach sun safety were explored using multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Lesser than 10% of participants reported using sun protective measures daily (midday shade use: 6.5%; sunscreen: 7.6%; hat: 4.4%). Only 56.3% reported they understand the UV index, with 68.0% rarely/never using it to aid sun protection. Under half the participants reported they felt they had the knowledge (38.5%) or skills (40%) to effectively teach sun safety in primary schools. Regression analysis revealed gender, undergraduate, year and skin sensitivity were not predictors of UV index use (P > .05) or perceived knowledge of sun safety (P > .05). Skin sensitivity was the strongest predictor for shade usage (P = .02), hat usage (P = .05) and perceived skill to teach sun safety (P = .02).

Conclusions

Survey data indicate UV radiation is inconsistently understood by PSTs. Many felt that they did not have the required knowledge or skill to teach sun safety effectively.

So what?

Improving PSTs UV radiation knowledge while at university is a potential opportunity to improve sun safety delivery in primary schools. A targeted intervention for PSTs is warranted.
Efficient mammal biodiversity surveys for ecological restoration monitoring
Authors: Green Nicholas S. , Wildhaber Mark L. , Albers Janice L. , Pettit Thomas W. , Hooper Michael J.
Published: August 2020

Efficient biodiversity surveys are critical for successful restoration monitoring and management. We studied the effect of varying sampling effort on the observed species richness of surveys of small mammals (trapping transects), bats (passive acoustic detection), and medium to large mammals (trail cameras). Field studies provided mammalian biodiversity data for 4 bottomland hardwood restoration sites in northeastern Indiana. Subsampled data were used to simulate monitoring surveys with a range of levels of effort. We then used hierarchical Bayesian nonlinear mixed models to analyze how different components of sampling effort affected observed species richness, a key monitoring outcome. We found that observed small mammal richness increased with the increased number of transects in a survey, while observed bat and medium to large mammal richness increased with the increased duration of sampling. Variation between sites was important for the observed richness of small mammals and bats but not for medium to large mammals. The key driver of richness observed in simulated surveys was related to the spatial scale at which target fauna interact with the habitat, with decreasing richness accompanied by a greater spatial scale of animal–habitat interactions. Our findings suggest taxon-specific recommendations for efficiently quantifying the mammalian diversity of managed sites. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1969–1981. © 2020 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC)

Key Points

Hierarchical subsampling was used to simulate how different levels of sampling effort affected the observed biodiversity of mammals. Observed small mammal species richness increased with number of samples (i.e., transects). For bats and medium to large mammals the duration of sampling, not number of samples, had the greatest effect on observed species richness. The spatial scale at which a species interacts with the habitat determined which component of sampling effort had the greatest effect.
A family cluster of diagnosed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) kidney transplant recipient in Thailand
Authors: Sakulkonkij Parichart , Bruminhent Jackrapong , Pankongngam Charan , Chalermphunchai Nipon
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) causes an ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). The clinical course could be ranging from mild to severe illness especially the individuals with an immunocompromised condition such as solid organ transplant recipients.

Method

We described a family cluster of COVID‐19 patients who were admitted during 3rd April 2020 to 30th April 2020. COVID‐19 was confirmed by a presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 ribonucleic acid in the respiratory specimens detected by a qualitative, real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. The study focused on the clinical course and management of our cases.

Results

A family cluster of four laboratory‐confirmed COVID‐19 patients, one of those carried an underlying kidney transplant (KT) receiving immunosuppressants. Clinical presentation and severity of our case series are variable depending on each individual immune status. By far, a KT recipient seems to develop more severity despite antiviral therapy, cessation of immunosuppressant, and aggressive intensive care support.

Conclusion

Our case series plausibly affirmed a person‐to‐person transmission and potentially severe disease in the transplant population. Clinicians who are encountering with transplant recipients should be aware of possible transmission among family members.
Assessment of bone healing using (Ti,Mg)N thin film coated plates and screws: Rabbit femur model
Authors: Sabouni Kenda , Ozturk Yetkin , Kacar Erkan , Mutlu Hasan Serdar , Solakoglu Seyhun , Kose Gamze Torun , Kok Fatma Nese , Kazmanli Muhammet Kursat , Urgen Kamil Mustafa , Onder Sakip
Published: August 2020

Magnesium (Mg) based implants such as plates and screws are often preferred to treat bone defects because of the positive effects of magnesium in bone growth and healing. Their low corrosion resistance, however, leads to fast degradation and consequently failure before healing was completed. Previously, we developed Mg doped titanium nitrate (TiN) thin film coatings to address these limitations and demonstrated that <10 at% Mg doping led to enhanced mineralization in vitro. In the present study, in vivo performance of (Ti,Mg)N coated Ti6Al4V based plates and screws were studied in the rabbit model. Bone fractures were formed on femurs of 16 rabbits and then fixed with either (Ti,Mg)N coated (n = 8) or standard TiN coated (n = 8) plates and screws. X‐ray imaging and μCT analyses showed enhanced bone regeneration on fracture sites fixed with (Ti,Mg)N coated plates in comparison with the Mg free ones. Bone mineral density, bone volume, and callus volume were also found to be 11.4, 23.4, and 42.8% higher, respectively, in accordance with μCT results. Furthermore, while TiN coatings promoted only primary bone regeneration, (Ti,Mg)N led to secondary bone regeneration in 6 weeks. These results indicated that Mg presence in the coatings accelerated bone regeneration in the fracture site. (Ti,Mg)N coating can be used as a practical method to increase the efficiency of existing bone fixation devices of varying geometry.
Inhibition of programmed death‐1 decreases neointimal hyperplasia after patch angioplasty
Authors: Bai Hualong , Wang Zhiwei , Li Mingxing , Sun Peng , Wei Shunbo , Wang Wang , Wang Zhiju , Xing Ying , Li Jingan , Dardik Alan
Published: August 2020

Neointimal hyperplasia remains an obstacle after vascular interventions. Programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) antibody treatment decreases tumor cell proliferation and secretion of inflammatory factors, and several antineoplastic drugs show efficacy against neointimal hyperplasia. We hypothesized that inhibition of PD‐1 inhibits neointimal hyperplasia in a rat patch angioplasty model. In a rat aorta patch angioplasty model, four groups were compared: the control group without treatment, a single dose of humanized PD‐1 antibody (4 mg/kg) injected immediately after patch angioplasty, PD‐1 antibody‐coated patches, and BMS‐1 (PD‐1 inhibitor)‐coated patches. Patches were harvested (Day 14) and analyzed. After patch angioplasty, PD‐1‐positive cells were present. Inhibition of PD‐1 using both intraperitoneal injection of humanized PD1 antibody as well as using patches coated with humanized PD1 antibody significantly decreased neointimal thickness (p = 0.0199). There were significantly fewer PD‐1 (p = 0.0148), CD3 (p = 0.0072), CD68 (p = 0.0001), CD45 (p = 0.001), and PCNA (p < 0.0001)‐positive cells, and PCNA/α‐actin dual positive cells (p = 0.0005), in the treated groups. Patches coated with BMS‐1 showed similarly decreased neointimal thickness and accumulation of inflammatory cells. Inhibition of PD‐1 using PD‐1 antibody or its inhibitor BMS‐1 can significantly decrease neointimal thickness in vascular patches. Inhibition of the PD‐1 pathway may be a promising therapeutic strategy to inhibit neointimal hyperplasia.
Update to the ASFA guidelines on the use of therapeutic apheresis in ANCA‐associated vasculitis
Authors: Balogun Rasheed A. , Sanchez Amber P. , Klingel Reinhard , Witt Volker , Aqui Nicole , Meyer Erin , Padmanabhan Anand , Pham Huy P. , Schneiderman Jennifer , Schwartz Joseph , Wu Yanyun , Zantek Nicole D. , Connelly‐Smith Laura , Dunbar Nancy M.
Published: August 2020

Since 1986, the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) has published practice guidelines on the use of therapeutic apheresis in the Journal of Clinical Apheresis (JCA) Special Issue. Since 2007, updated guidelines have been published every 3 years to reflect current evidence based apheresis practice with the most recent edition (8th) published in 2019. With each edition, the guidelines are reviewed and updated based on any newly published literature since the last review. The PEXIVAS study, an international, randomized controlled trial comparing therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) vs no TPE and standard vs reduced dose steroid regimen on the primary composite outcome of end stage renal disease or death in patients with ANCA‐associated vasculitis (AAV), was published in February 2020. This study represents the largest study on the role of therapeutic apheresis in AAV published to date and prompted the JCA Special Issue Writing Committee to reassess the current AAV fact sheet for updates based on this newly available evidence. This interim fact sheet summarizes current ASFA recommendations for the evidence‐based use of therapeutic apheresis in AAV and supersedes the recommendations published in the 2019 guidelines.
A study of outcomes, technical safety, and feasibility of D‐2 lymphadenectomy in gastric cancer
Authors: Talukdar Abhijit , Bannoth Srinivas , Purkayastha Joydeep , Borthakur Bibhuti B , Kalita Deepjyoti , Das Gaurav , Pegu Niju , Singh Pritesh
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim

Lymph node dissection in gastric cancer had been controversial, but recent data have led us to the conclusion that D‐2 dissection should be the standard of care for potentially curable advanced gastric carcinoma. In this study, we present our single‐institution experience of D‐2 lymph node dissection.

Methods

From January 2013 to September 2018, 115 patients of gastric cancer were treated with D‐2 gastrectomy, 91 of whom met the criteria for study analysis. Data were statistically described as frequencies and percentages where appropriate. Survival curves were plotted using the Kaplan–Meier method, and Cox regression was used to assess the risk among groups. A P value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant at 95% confidence interval.

Results

The majority of patients (86.8%) had Clavien‐Dindo grade I postoperative surgical complications; 90‐day mortality was seen in five (5.5%) patients. Patients with stages I, II, and III had survival rates of 100%, 71.4%; 53.2%, 44.4%; and 27.8%, 28.1%, respectively, for ages <55 and >55 years. Overall recurrence free survival rates were 26 and 28% for <55 years and >55 years, respectively, with a P value of 0.570. On multivariate analysis, positive distal margin and multivisceral resection had a statistically significant hazard ratio.

Conclusions

This retrospective study conducted in our institute on patients with gastric cancer undergoing D‐2 lymphadenectomy has shown that the addition of D‐2 lymph node dissection, when performed at high‐volume centers, have acceptable morbidity and mortality rates. This can be seen from our grades of postoperative surgical complications, 90‐day mortality, and overall 5‐year survival.
Rare complication of endoscopic band ligation for colonic diverticular bleeding
Authors: Tominaga Naoyuki , Ogata Shinichi , Esaki Motohiro
Published: August 2020

A 79‐year‐old female patient receiving maintenance hemodialysis was referred to our hospital because of massive hematochezia. Abdominal enhanced computed tomography (CT) demonstrated extravasation of contrast medium in the descending colon. We then performed urgent colonoscopy, and successful endoscopic hemostasis was achieved using endoscopic band ligation (EBL) for a bleeding colonic diverticulum. However, the patient unexpectedly complained of severe abdominal pain and fever 5 days after EBL, and abdominal CT revealed free air and mesenteric panniculitis. Emergency surgery was performed, and delayed colonic perforation at the EBL site was confirmed. Although rare, delayed perforation after EBL for colonic diverticular bleeding should be considered.
NOGO‐A immunolabeling is present in glial cells and some neurons of the recovering lumbar spinal cord in lizards
Authors: Alibardi Lorenzo
Published: August 2020

The transected lumbar spinal cord of lizards was studied for its ability to recover after paralysis. At 34 days post‐lesion about 50% of lizards were capable of walking with a limited coordination, likely due to the regeneration of few connecting axons crossing the transection site of the spinal cord. This region, indicated as “bridge”, contains glial cells among which oligodendrocytes and their elongation that are immunolabeled for NOGO‐A. A main reactive protein band occurs at 100–110 kDa but a weaker band is also observed around 240 kDa, suggesting fragmentation of the native protein due to extraction or to physiological processing of the original protein. Most of the cytoplasmic immunolabeling observed in oligodendrocytes is associated with vesicles of the endoplasmic reticulum. Also, the nucleus is labeled in some oligodendrocytes that are myelinating sparse axons observed within the bridge at 22–34 days post‐transection. This suggests that axonal regeneration is present within the bridge region. Immunolabeling for NOGO‐A shows that the protein is also present in numerous reactive neurons, in particular motor‐neurons localized in the proximal stump of the transected spinal cord. Ultrastructural immunolocalization suggests that NOGO is synthesized in the ribosomes of these neurons and becomes associated with the cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum, probably following a secretory pathway addressed toward the axon. The present observations suggest that, like for the regenerating spinal cord of fish and amphibians, also in lizard NOGO‐A is present in reactive neurons and appears associated to axonal regeneration and myelination.
Renin Angiotensin System Inhibitors Reduce Aortic Stiffness and Flow Reversal After a Cryptogenic Stroke
Authors: Soulat Gilles , Jarvis Kelly , Pathrose Ashitha , Vali Alireza , Scott Michael , Syed Amer A. , Kinno Menhel , Prabhakaran Shyam , Collins Jeremy D. , Markl Michael
Published: August 2020

Background

Blood flow reversal is a possible mechanism for retrograde embolism in the setting of high‐risk atherosclerotic plaques in the descending aorta (DAo). Evidence suggests that pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a determinant of blood flow reversal and can be reduced by the destiffening effect of renin‐angiotensin system inhibitors (RASI).

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of antihypertensive therapy on in vivo changes in PWV and flow reversal in patients with cryptogenic stroke.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Sixteen patients (69 ± 9 years; 10 males) included after cryptogenic stroke.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T. 4D flow sequence (temporal resolution = 19.6 msec)

Assessment

Patients underwent aortic MRI at baseline and at 6‐month follow‐up. Patients received standard‐of‐care antihypertensive therapy that were classified as RASI vs. non‐RASI medications (ie, destiffening vs. nondestiffening).We compared aortic PWV, flow reversal fraction (FRF), aortic measurements, cardiac function, and other aortic and cardiac measurements in the antihypertensive therapy groups.

Statistical Tests

Two‐tailed paired or unpaired Student's t‐tests (normal distributions) or Wilcoxon tests (nonnormal distribution). Univariate correlations using Pearson correlation coefficients.

Results

There was a significant decrease in PWV in the RASI (n = 10) group (9.4 ± 1.6 m/s vs. 8.3 ± 1.9 m/s; P < 0.05), as well as FRF (18.6% ± 4.1% vs. 16.3% ± 4.0%; P < 0.05) between baseline and the 6‐month MRI studies. There were no changes in PWV or FRF in the non‐RASI (n = 6) group (P = 0.146 and P = 0.32). A decrease in FRF was significantly correlated with a decrease in PWV (r = 0.53; P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

The findings of our study suggest that RASI therapy after cryptogenic stroke resulted in a decrease of blood flow reversal and aortic stiffness.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy Stage

4
Evaluation of Chronic Pancreatitis With T1ρ MRI: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Sun Shuangshuang , Zhou Nan , Feng Yongjing , Lv Ying , He Jian , Liu Song , Chen Weibo , Kong Wentao , Zhou Zhengyang
Published: August 2020

Background

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) can result in persistent damage to the endocrine and exocrine tissues of the pancreas. There is an unmet need for quantitative methods to evaluate CP noninvasively.

Purpose

To investigate the utility of T1ρ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the assessment of CP.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Twenty patients with CP and 24 healthy volunteers.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T MRI including T1ρ sequence (spin lock time = 0, 1, 10, 20, 40, 60 msec).

Assessment

Pancreatic T1ρ values and anterior–posterior (AP) diameters in the head, body, and tail were measured in all participants. Regions of interest with circle (ROIcircle) and free‐hand (ROIFH) were drawn for T1ρ value measurements.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U‐test; Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test; receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve; and Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

The T1ρ values of pancreatic tail and the mean T1ρ values for ROIcircle and the T1ρ values of pancreatic tail for ROIFH in patients with CP were significantly higher than those in healthy volunteers (all P < 0.05). Pancreatic head AP diameter significantly increased, while pancreatic tail AP diameter significantly decreased in patients with CP compared with healthy volunteers (both P < 0.05). The areas under the ROC curves (AUCs) of pancreatic tail T1ρ values with ROIcircle and tail AP diameter in diagnosing CP were 0.744 and 0.798, respectively. A combination of pancreatic tail T1ρ values with ROIcircle and tail AP diameter achieved good performance for diagnosing CP (AUC = 0.838).

Data Conclusion

T1ρ MRI might be a potential technique for the noninvasive evaluation of CP.

Level of Evidence 2

Technical Efficacy Stage 2

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2021;53:577–584.
Signal enhancement in desorption nanoelectrospray ionization by custom‐made inlet with pressure regulation
Authors: Nytka Marianna , Borovcová Lucie , Fryčák Petr , Barták Petr , Lemr Karel
Published: August 2020

The efficiency of desorption/ionization becomes more critical as the sampled surface area decreases. Desorption electrospray and desorption nanoelectrospray belong to ambient ionizations and enable direct surface analysis including mass spectrometric imaging. Lateral resolution in tens of micrometers was demonstrated for desorption nanoelectrospray previously, but sensitivity of the surface scan can be an issue. For desorption electrospray, the drag force in the source is driven by the flow of used gases and vacuum suction. Ion signal intensity can be improved by controlling the nebulizing gas flow rate or auxiliary pumping of a closed compartment in front of the mass spectrometer inlet. Because nanoelectrospray generates charged droplets without the assistance of a nebulizing gas, only vacuum suction drives the gas flow. In this study, the effect of pressure drop between the atmospheric and evacuated region of a mass spectrometer on the ion signal intensity was investigated for desorption nanoelectrospray. A modification of the commercial inlet was designed. An auxiliary pump was directly connected to an inner compartment of the modified mass spectrometer inlet through a needle valve that enabled the regulation of the reduced pressure. Adjustment of the pressure drop significantly increased signal intensity (more than one order of magnitude in some cases). To a lesser extent, the temperature of a heated capillary (an integral part of the inlet) also influenced the signal intensity. The applicability of desorption nanoelectrospray equipped with pressure regulation was demonstrated by the analysis of synthetic cathinones or a pill of paracetamol. Because pressure in the inlet depends on the diameters of orifices and the power of vacuum systems of mass spectrometers, the effect of the pressure regulation can be different for different instruments. Nevertheless, the presented results confirmed the importance of pressure drop‐driven transport for desorption nanoelectrospray efficiency and can encourage its new applications.
The role of DBP gene polymorphisms in the prevalence of new coronavirus disease 2019 infection and mortality rate
Authors: Karcioglu Batur Lutfiye , Hekim Nezih
Published: August 2020

Since December 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has given rise to emerging respiratory infections with pandemic diffusion. The vitamin D binding protein (DBP) with emphasis on its regulation of total and free vitamin D metabolite levels participate in various clinical conditions. The main goal of this study was to evaluate if there was any association between the DBP gene polymorphism at rs7041 and rs4588 loci and the prevalence of COVID‐19 and its mortality rates caused among populations of 10 countries including Turkey. Positive significant correlations were found between the prevalence (per million) and mortality rates (per million), and GT genotype (P < .05) while there was a negative significant correlation between prevalence (per million) and mortality rates (per million), and TT genotype at rs7041 locus among all populations (P < .05). However, no significant correlation was found at rs4588 locus. GT genotype was found to confer this susceptibility to the populations of Germany, Mexico, Italy, Czech, and Turkey. The variations in the prevalence of COVID‐19 and its mortality rates among countries may be explained by Vitamin D metabolism differed by the DBP polymorphisms of rs7041 and rs4588.
Clinical and radiological diagnosis of non–SARS‐CoV‐2 viruses in the era of COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Alpaydin Aylin O. , Gezer Naciye S. , Simsek Gokçen O. , Tertemiz Kemal C. , Kutsoylu Oya O. E. , Zeka Arzu N. , Guzel Irmak , Soyturk Mujde , Sayiner Ayca A. , Oguz Vildan A.
Published: August 2020

Following the announcement of the first coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) case on 11 March 2020 in Turkey, we aimed to report the coinfection rates, and the clinical, laboratory, radiological distinctive features of viral pneumonia caused by viruses other than severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). A cross‐sectional study was conducted between 18 and 31 March 2020. COVID‐19 suspected cases admitted to pandemic policlinic, who had nasopharyngeal swab specimens tested for both SARS‐CoV‐2 and other respiratory viral pathogens, were included. Among 112 patients, SARS‐CoV‐2 was detected in 34 patients (30%). Among the non–SARS‐CoV‐2 viruses (n = 25, 22%), metapneumovirus (n = 10) was the most frequent agent. There were two coinfections with SARS‐CoV‐2. Sputum was less in the SARS‐CoV‐2 group (P = .003). The leukocyte, lymphocyte, and thrombocyte count and C‐reactive protein levels were the lowest in the SARS‐CoV‐2 group (P < .001, P = .04, P < .001, P = .007, respectively). Peripheral involvement (80% vs 20%; P ≤ .001), pure ground‐glass opacity (65% vs 33%; P = .04), apicobasal gradient (60% vs 40%; P = .08), involvement of greater than or equal to three lobes (80% vs 40%; odds ratio: 6.0; 95% confidence interval: 1.33‐27.05; P = .02), and consolidation with accompanying ground‐glass opacity (4% vs 33%; P = .031) were more common in SARS‐CoV‐2 group. Some clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings may help in the differential diagnosis of non–SARS‐CoV‐2 viruses from COVID‐19. However, coinfections may occur, and a non–SARS‐CoV‐2 pathogen positivity does not exclude accompanying COVID‐19.
Pain‐induced alterations in the dynorphinergic system within the mesocorticolimbic pathway: Implication for alcohol addiction
Authors: Lorente Jesús David , Cuitavi Javier , Campos‐Jurado Yolanda , Hipólito Lucía
Published: August 2020

Latest studies have revealed that pain negatively impacts on reward processing and motivation leading to negative affective states and stress. These states not only reduce quality of life of patients by increasing the appearance of psychiatric comorbidities, but also have an important impact on vulnerability to drug abuse, including alcohol. In fact, clinical, epidemiological but also preclinical studies have revealed that the presence of pain is closely related to alcohol use disorders (AUDs). All this evidence suggests that pain is a factor that increases the risk of suffering AUD, predicting heavy drinking behavior and relapse drinking in those patients with a previous history of AUD. The negative consequences of chronic pain and its impact on stress and AUD are likely mediated by alterations in the central nervous system, especially in the stress and reward systems. Therefore, pain and stress impact on dopaminergic mesolimbic pathway can lead to an increase in drug abuse liability. In this mini review we analyze the interaction between pain, stress, and alcohol addiction, and how dynamic changes in the kappa opioid system might play a crucial role in the development of compulsive alcohol drinking in chronic pain patients.
A multilevel investigation of predictors and outcomes of shared leadership
Authors: Klasmeier Kai N. , Rowold Jens
Published: August 2020

For modern organizations, shared leadership becomes increasingly important. Knowledge on shared leadership may be limited, as past research often relies on cross‐sectional data or student samples, and most studies neglect the multilevel nature of shared leadership. Our research model includes transformational leadership, trust, and organizational support as predictors of shared leadership. Furthermore, we analyze the influence of shared leadership on team performance and team creativity. In total, 160 teams with 697 employees participated in our field study. Data collection took place at three time points. To test our hypotheses, we used multilevel modeling with a Bayesian estimator. We found relationships of transformational leadership and trust with shared leadership at the team level and of transformational leadership, trust, and organizational support with shared leadership at the individual level. Furthermore, shared leadership fully mediated the effect of the three input factors on team performance and team creativity. This study contributes to the understanding of the antecedents and outcomes of shared leadership. Furthermore, the dynamic development of team processes based on an input–mediator–output model is explored. On the basis of the results, organizations can increase shared leadership behavior by focusing on transformational leadership and trust building.