bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivo comparative study of hemp straw exposure and cannabidiol oil administration in horse urine
Authors: Trevisiol Stéphane , Popot Marie‐Agnès , Garcia Patrice , Boyer Sophie , Caroff Mylène , Drif Laura , Taleb Wafek , Tendon Sophie , Moulard Yves , Bailly‐Chouriberry Ludovic
Published: August 2024

The non‐psychoactive cannabinoids cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) are available on the market in different forms, mostly for their anti‐inflammatory and potential analgesic properties. These substances are prohibited during equine competitions. CBD and CBDA are naturally present in hemp straw, commonly used as a bedding substitute for wheat straw. Unfortunately, horses can eat it, which therefore could lead to a possible risk of positive findings for CBD/CBDA in biological samples after doping control tests. The goals of this study were, first, to provide recommendations on the use of hemp straw before competition and, second, to assess if discrimination between hemp bedding exposure and CBD oil administration is possible. Several CBD equine in vivo studies have been conducted, including one on hemp straw used as bedding and one after administration of CBD oil by topical and sublingual routes. In hemp straw, CBDA was detected in higher quantities than CBD, and other cannabinoids have been observed. After hemp straw exposure, CBDA was also detected in higher quantities than CBD in all urine samples. It appeared that hemp straw should not be used as bedding for equine competition except if a delay of at least 48 h is respected. Regarding the CBD oil product analysis, CBD was the main compound detected. After administration, 7‐hydroxy CBD was identified in the urine. In conclusion, based on these data, we highlighted that it could be possible to discriminate the exposure of a horse to hemp straw from an administration of a CBD oil product thanks to the main presence of CBDA.
Trends in the Reactivity of Pentacyclic Ether Derivatives on Silicon and Germanium Surfaces Revealed by Energy Decomposition Analysis for Extended Systems
Authors: Thiemann Franz , Weiske Hendrik , Tonner-Zech Ralf Ewald
Published: August 2024

We analyze the adsorption and ring‐opening reaction of pentacyclic chalcogen alkyls with chalcogen atoms ranging from oxygen to tellurium using computational analysis. Thus extends our previous investigation of THF on silicon towards germanium surface and towards the heavier chalcogen homologues. We found an increasing dative bond strength of the precursor state with the period of the chalcogen atom on both surfaces. Using energy decomposition analysis for extended systems (pEDA), differences in the trends between silicon and germanium were revealed. Following the dative bound state, subsequent ring‐opening reactions were found to proceed via a nucleophilic back‐side attack, similar to a molecular SN2 reaction. Reaction energies and barrier heights show a maximum for the sulfur derivative. This trend was found to correlate with the position of the transition state in the reaction and agrees with the molecular reactivity. The uniquely low barrier of THF can be attributed to its ring strain. Our findings shed light on the fundamental aspects of surface chemistry and the benefits of using quantitative bonding analysis in this field. It also paves the way for future explorations into the functionalization of semiconductor surfaces using higher‐period ether derivatives.
Retinal vasculopathy with cerebral leukoencephalopathy and systemic manifestations in conjunction with systemic lupus erythematosus: Missed diagnosis or misdiagnosis?
Authors: Wang Xinhui , Su Li , Han Jinming , Han Yilai , Yin Yunsi , Huang Jiancheng , Tang Yi , Zhao Yi , Qin Qi
Published: August 2024

Background

Retinal vasculopathy with cerebral leukoencephalopathy and systemic manifestations (RVCL‐S) is a rare autosomal dominant systemic microvascular disorder attributed to TREX1 (three‐prime repair exonuclease‐1) gene mutations, often proned to misdiagnosed.

Methods

We reported a case of RVCL‐S coexisting with systemic lupus erythematosus due to a mutation in the TREX1 gene. This study provided a summary and discussion of previously documented cases related to TREX1 mutations or RVCL‐S.

Results

A 39‐year‐old female patient visited the clinic due to progressive memory loss and speech difficulties. Magnetic resonance imaging results showed corpus callosum atrophy and multiple subcortical calcifications in both brain hemispheres. Genetic testing revealed a TREX1 gene mutation (c.294dupA). Treatment with immunosuppressive therapy for 2 months led to improvements in communication and mobility. We also summarized previously reported cases providing an overview of TREX1 gene mutation or RCVL‐S.

Conclusion

Our case establishes a compelling foundation for future RVCL‐S diagnosis and treatment paradigms. Notably, conducting systemic immunity screening in patients with RVCL‐S emerges as a strategic approach to prevent potential diagnostic oversights.
Water withdrawal and sustainability concerns in sugarcane cultivation in Western India: An application of the SURE model
Authors: Kingsly Immanuelraj T. , Mohan Balasubramanian , Tamilarasu Arivelarasan , Kumar Sant
Published: August 2024

This study attempts to quantify farmers' response to output and input prices for irrigation water use to examine the issue of sustainability in sugarcane cultivation in Maharashtra, India. We used a seemingly unrelated regression estimator (SURE) to estimate a translog profit function model. Secondary data on production costs covering the period of 1971–2021 were used. The results show that the sugarcane price affects not only production but also irrigation demand. The elasticity of irrigation demand with respect to the output price is highly responsive (i.e. 1.94), which could be the main reason for groundwater extraction. The continuous increase in the guaranteed price of sugarcane and the relatively lower cost of irrigation motivate farmers to continue sugarcane cultivation. The findings of this study justify significant policy interventions for the sustainable production of sugarcane in Maharashtra.
A mediational theory of equivalence relations and transformation of function
Authors: Schlinger Henry D. , Blakely Elbert
Published: August 2024

In this article, we describe a mediational theory of emergent or derived relations resulting from matching‐to‐sample procedures that produce equivalence and transformation of function. According to a mediational theory, behaviors that occur at the time of reinforcement mediate subsequent behavioral relations referred to as “derived” or “emergent.” Such relations have been documented for decades in studies using mostly matching‐to‐sample procedures with humans and nonhumans. In both verbal human and nonhuman participants, the mediating behaviors consist of differential responding to the sample stimulus. In humans, such behaviors are mostly, but not necessarily, verbal; in nonhumans they include a variety of sample‐specific responses, sometimes called “coding.” The proposed mediational theory, based only on the four‐term contingency and the basic principles of operant learning, makes specific predictions and explains results from a broad range of experiments. There are at least three important implications of a mediational theory. First, if by “derived” or “emergent” one means untrained or unreinforced, then derived relations may not exist. Second, if there are no derived relations, then theories of such relations may not be necessary. Third, a mediational theory of relational responding has potentially important implications for clinical practice.
The mechanism of lovastatin in suppressing the proliferation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma based on proteomics
Authors: Peng Feng , Zhu Lili , Fan Jiang , Yang Fu
Published: August 2024

Background

Lovastatin, a type of statin usually considered as a lipid‐lowering drug that lowers blood cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, has been rediscovered to have anticancer activity. Fewer studies exist regarding the effect of lovastatin on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

Here, we report that lovastatin shows anticancer effect on ESCC By affecting the mitochondrial autophagy pathway. Moreover, based on proteomics and computer molecular simulations found that RAB38 and RAB27A may be a target of lovastatin.

Results

We observed that autophagy of mitochondria is inhibited by lovastatin, affecting esophageal squamous cell proliferation. There is a possible link between the expression of RAB38, RAB27A and immune cell invasion in esophageal cancer.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the huge potential of lovastatin as an RAB38, RAB27A inhibitor in esophageal cancer chemotherapy and chemoprevention.
Continuous pulse oximetry monitoring in children hospitalized with bronchiolitis: A qualitative analysis of clinicians' justifications
Authors: Ruppel Halley , Bonafide Christopher P. , Beidas Rinad S. , Albanowski Kimberly , Parlar‐Chun Raymond , Rajbhandari Prabi , Kern‐Goldberger Andrew S. , Stoeck Patricia A. , Snow Kathleen , House Samantha A. , Lucey Kate E. , Brady Patrick W. , Schondelmeyer Amanda C. ,   For the Pediatric Research in Inpatient Settings (PRIS) Network
Published: August 2024

Continuous pulse oximetry (cSpO2) monitoring use outside established guidelines is common in children hospitalized with bronchiolitis. We analyzed clinicians' real‐time rationale for continuous monitoring in stable children with bronchiolitis not requiring supplemental oxygen. Data for this study were collected as part a multicenter deimplementation trial for cSpO2 in children hospitalized with bronchiolitis. We analyzed 371 clinician responses across 36 hospitals; 258 (70%) responses did not include a clinical reason for monitoring (“nonclinical”; e.g., respondent forgot to discontinue monitoring, did not know why the patient was monitored, or was following an order). The remaining 113 (30%) responses contained a clinical reason for monitoring (“clinical”; e.g., recently requiring oxygen, physical exam concerns, or concerns relating to patient condition or history). Strategies to reduce unnecessary monitoring should include changes in workflow to facilitate shared understanding of monitoring goals and timely discontinuation of monitoring.
Assessing the HIV care continuum among transgender women during 11 years of follow‐up: results from the Netherlands’ ATHENA observational cohort
Authors: Jongen Vita W. , Daans Ceranza , van Sighem Ard , Schim van der Loeff Maarten , Hage Kris , Welling Camiel , von Vaupel‐Klein Alex , den Heijer Martin , Peters Edgar J. G. , van der Valk Marc , Reiss Peter , Prins Maria , Hoornenborg Elske ,   the ATHENA observational HIV cohort
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Transgender women are at increased risk of acquiring HIV. Earlier studies reported lower retention in HIV care, antiretroviral therapy uptake, adherence and viral suppression. We assessed the stages of the HIV care continuum of transgender women in the Netherlands over an 11‐year period. In addition, we assessed new HIV diagnoses and late presentation, as well as disengagement from care, between 2011 and 2021.

Methods

Using data from the Dutch national ATHENA cohort, we separately assessed viral suppression, as well as time to achieving viral suppression, among transgender women for each year between 2011 and 2021. We also assessed trends in new HIV diagnoses and late presentation (CD4 count of <350 cells/µl and/or AIDS at diagnosis), and disengagement from care.

Results

Between 2011 and 2021, a total of 260 transgender women attended at least one HIV clinical visit. Across all years, <90% of transgender women were virally suppressed (207/239 [87%] in 2021). The number of new HIV diagnoses fluctuated for transgender women (ptrend = 0.053) and late presentation was common (ranging between 10% and 67% of new HIV diagnoses). Of the 260 transgender women, 26 (10%) disengaged from care between 2011 and 2021 (incidence rate = 1.10 per 100 person‐years, 95% confidence interval = 0.75−1.61).

Conclusions

Between 2011 and 2021, less than 90% of transgender women linked to HIV care were virally suppressed. Late presentation at the time of diagnosis and disengagement from care were common. Efforts are needed to identify barriers to early HIV diagnosis and to optimize the different steps across the care continuum for transgender women.
Acceptability, usability, and willingness to pay for HIV self‐test kits distributed through community‐based, PLHIV network‐led and private practitioners models in India: Results from the STAR III Initiative
Authors: Laxmeshwar Chinmay , Hegde Asha , Dange Alpana , Mariyappan Kannan , Soosai Manish , Mane Sandeep , Sivasubramanian Murugesan , Doddamane Mahesh , Mukherjee Madhuri , Shreenivas G. S. , Pardesi Manoj , Jambhale Vinod , Rao Pakkela Venkateswara , Arumugam Vijayaraman , Rungta Vedant , Bansal Yashika , Chaudary Jatin , Yeldandi Vijay , Periasamy Mahalingam , Uthappa Chengappa , Chawla Sudhir , Upadhyaya Sunita , Nyendak Melissa , Chakrapani Venkatesan , Godbole Sheela , Verma Vinita , Singh Kushwaha Bhawani , Das Chinmoyee , Rajan Shobini , Kumar Puri Anoop , Prasada Rao J. V. R. , Bhatnagar Tarun , Reddy D. C. S. , Green Kimberly
Published: August 2024

Introduction

HIV self‐testing (HIVST) has been shown to increase the uptake of HIV testing and help achieve the UNAIDS 95‐95‐95 targets. This study assessed the acceptability, usability (ease of use and result interpretation) and the willingness to pay for HIVST kits distributed through three distribution models, namely the community‐based, PLHIV network‐led and private practitioners models, in India.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was implemented across 14 states in India between September 2021 and June 2022. All participants could choose between blood‐based or oral‐fluid‐based test kits. Participants were shown a test‐kit usage demonstration video, and pre‐ and post‐test counselling was provided for all. Participants were followed‐up after testing, and if reported reactive, were further supported for linkage to confirmatory testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation.

Results

Among the 90,605 participants found eligible, 88,080 (97%) accepted an HIVST kit. Among the 87,976 who reported using an HIVST kit, 45,207 (51%) preferred a blood‐based kit, and 42,120 (48%) reported testing for the first time. For future testing, 77,064 (88%) reported preferring HIVST over other HIV testing methods. Among those who used the kit, 83,308 (95%) found the kit easy to use, and 83,237 (95%) reported that the test results were easy to interpret. Among those who preferred HIVST for future use, 52,136 (69%) were willing to pay for the kit, with 35,854 (69%) of those willing to pay less than US$ 1.20. Only one instance of social harm was reported, with a participant reporting suicidal tendencies due to discord with their partner.

Out of 328 participants (0.4%) who tested reactive with HIVST, 291 (89%) were linked to confirmatory testing; of these, 254 were confirmed HIV positive, and 216 (85%) successfully initiated ART.

Conclusions

Overall, we report that nearly all participants were willing to accept HIVST, found the test kits easy to use and interpret, and about two‐thirds were willing to pay for HIVST. Given the high levels of acceptance and the ability to reach a large proportion of first‐time testers, HIVST in India could contribute to achieving the UNAIDS first 95 and ending the HIV epidemic.
Satellite and in situ measurements of water vapour in the Brazil‐Malvinas Confluence region
Authors: Freitas Rose Ane Pereira de , de Souza Ronald Buss , do Nascimento Reis Rafael Afonso , de Mendonça Luis Felipe Ferreira , da Silva Lindemann Douglas
Published: August 2024

This decade‐long study from the INTERCONF programme addresses the data gap on ocean dynamics in the Southern Hemisphere. Focusing on the Brazil‐Malvinas Confluence (BMC), we investigated the effect of temperature differences between the warm Brazil Current (BC) and the cold Malvinas Current (MC) on water vapour in the marine atmospheric boundary layer (MABL). Our results show a clear distinction: warmer BMC waters have 32% more water vapour (2 kg·m−2 on average) compared to the MC. This highlights the direct link between ocean temperatures and atmospheric processes. Analysis of radiosonde data alongside satellite measurements showed better agreement over cooler waters with lower water vapour, leading to lower variability. This suggests less atmospheric turbulence and improved data compatibility, especially for satellite retrievals such as AIRS. Comparisons between reanalysis data (CFSR), satellite sounders (AIRS) and radiosondes (RS) showed consistent air temperature profiles, with average errors within the 10% threshold for satellite measurements. While capturing humidity variations remains a challenge, especially at high concentrations (indicated by higher mean squared error values), our study highlights the reliability of satellite data, particularly over the cold BMC region. This research highlights the importance of studying the interactions between ocean fronts and atmospheric phenomena for a complete picture of Southern Hemisphere ocean dynamics. It offers valuable insights for scientists across disciplines, providing a broad perspective on the results and their significance in different contexts.
In vivo MRI of hyperpolarized silicon‐29 nanoparticles
Authors: Kwiatkowski Grzegorz , von Witte Gevin , Däpp Alexander , Kocic Jovana , Hattendorf Bodo , Ernst Matthias , Kozerke Sebastian
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The objective of the present work was to test the feasibility of in vivo imaging of hyperpolarized 50‐nm silicon‐29 (29Si) nanoparticles.

Methods

Commercially available, crystalline 50‐nm nanoparticles were hyperpolarized using dynamic polarization transfer via the endogenous silicon oxide–silicon defects without the addition of exogenous radicals. Phantom experiments were used to quantify the effect of sample dissolution and various surface coating on T1 and T2 relaxation. The in vivo feasibility of detecting hyperpolarized silicon‐29 was tested following intraperitoneal, intragastric, or intratumoral injection in mice and compared with the results obtained with previously reported, large, micrometer‐size particles. The tissue clearance of SiNPs was quantified in various organs using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy.

Results

In vivo images obtained after intragastric, intraperitoneal, and intratumoral injection compare favorably between small and large SiNPs. Improved distribution of small SiNPs was observed after intraperitoneal and intragastric injection as compared with micrometer‐size SiNPs. Sufficient clearance of nanometer‐size SiNPs using ex vivo tissue sample analysis was observed after 14 days following injection, indicating their safe use.

Conclusion

In vivo MRI of hyperpolarized small 50‐nm SiNPs is feasible with polarization levels and room‐temperature relaxation times comparable to large micrometer‐size particles.
An assessment of narrative operative reports for Wilms tumor resection using consensus component criteria
Authors: Morrison Zachary D. , Rajesh Niharika , Davidoff Andrew M. , Abdelhafeez Hafeez
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Precision in surgical documentation is essential to avoid miscommunication and errors in patient care. Synoptic operative reports are more precise than narrative operative reports, however they have not been widely implemented in pediatric surgical oncology. To assess the need for implementation of synoptic operative reports in pediatric surgical oncology, we examined the completeness of narrative operative reports in patients undergoing resection of Wilms tumor.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of narrative operative reports for resection of Wilms tumor at a single pediatric oncology center from January 2022 through July 2023. Primary outcomes were the presence or absence of 11 key operative report components. Inclusion rates were calculated as simple percentages. Unilateral and bilateral operations were considered.

Results

Thirty‐five narrative reports for Wilms tumor resection were included. The most consistently documented operative report components were estimated blood loss, indication for surgery, intraoperative complications, and specimen naming (100% documentation rates). Documentation of lymph node sampling was present in 94.3% of reports. The least consistently documented components were assessment of intraoperative tumor spillage, completeness of resection, metastatic disease, and assessment of vascular involvement (each ≤40% documentation rate). All 11 key components were documented in three reports.

Conclusions

Even at a large tertiary pediatric oncology referral center, narrative operative reports for pediatric Wilms tumor resection were found to be frequently missing important components of surgical documentation. Often, these were omissions of negative findings. Utilization of synoptic operative reports may be able to reduce these gaps.
Investigation of the effect of mass percentage concentration of polystyrene–toluene solution on the surface properties of the plasma‐treated polystyrene thin films
Authors: Aliabadizadeh Farzad , Siahpoush Vahid , Pashabeiki Zadeh Asal , Eivazpour Taher Ataollah
Published: August 2024

Polystyrene (PS) finds diverse applications across various fields, often necessitating a hydrophilic PS surface. In this study, the PS films were prepared using PS–toluene solutions of 15, 20, and 25 mass percentage concentrations (% w/v). Here, the main focus is on the influence of concentration on the hydrophilization of the prepared PS thin films under atmospheric pressure air dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatment. The contact angle, surface energy measurements, atomic force microscopy, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analysis were conducted to evaluate the PS surface properties. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, the significant role of concentration in altering surface properties; the lower concentration of PS films leads to the most hydrophilic surface. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirms an increase in the OH functional group on the PS surface. atomic force microscopy analysis reveals needle‐shaped surface morphology, increased roughness and an expanded effective surface area. Surface energy analysis confirms an increase in the polar sector of surface energy. Overall, the findings from this research underscore the increase in film hydrophilicity with a decrease in PS–toluene concentration.

Highlights

Polystyrene (PS)–toluene solutions with different concentrations were prepared.

PS–toluene films were spin‐coated and were been treated with dielectric barrier discharge plasma.

The contact angle, surface energy measurements, atomic force microscopy, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analysis were conducted.

PS films with lower concentration have more impact from plasma treatment.

Concentration, impact the hydrophilicity and roughness of treated PS films.
Interaction of H, H2, and MgH2 With Graphene and Possible Application to Hydrogen Storage—A Density Functional Computational Investigation
Authors: Iyakutti K. , Reji Rence P. , Ajaijawahar K. , Lakshmi I. , Rajeswarapalanichamy R. , Surya V. J. , Karthigeyan A. , Kawazoe Y.
Published: August 2024

The interaction of H, H2, and MgH2 with graphene is investigated using the density functional theory to explore the possibility of exploiting graphene or functionalized graphene as a hydrogen storage medium. The H atom is positioned at various distances from the graphene surface and the energetics are computed in detail. The extent of interaction of the s electron of H with graphene's pz electrons is well brought out. Similar investigations are carried out for H2, MgH2. In the case of H atom, a HC covalent bond is formed. This process turns out to be a prerequisite for proton transfer through graphene. Interactions of H2 and MgH2 with graphene are different from that of H. It leads to the conclusion that functionalized graphene will better substrate/candidate for applications like hydrogen storage.
Understanding natural isotopic variations in cultured cancer cells
Authors: Mantha Olivier L. , Mahé Marie , Mahéo Karine , Fromont Gaëlle , Guéguinou Maxime , Tea Illa , Hankard Régis , De Luca Arnaud
Published: August 2024

Rationale

Natural variations in the abundance of the stable isotopes of nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C) offer valuable insights into metabolic fluxes. In the wake of strong interest in cancer metabolism, recent research has revealed δ15N and δ13C variations in cancerous compared to non‐cancerous tissues and cell lines. However, our understanding of natural isotopic variations in cultured mammalian cells, particularly in relation to metabolism, remains limited. This study aims to start addressing this gap using metabolic modulations in cells cultured under controlled conditions.

Methods

Prostate cancer cells (PC3) were cultured in different conditions and their δ15N and δ13C were measured using isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Isotopic variations during successive cell culture passages were assessed and two widely used cell culture media (RPMI and DMEM) were compared. Metabolism was modulated through glutamine deprivation and hypoxia.

Results

Successive cell culture passages generally resulted in reproducible δ15N and δ13C values. The impact of culture medium composition on δ15N and δ13C of the cells highlights the importance of maintaining a consistent medium composition across conditions whenever possible. Glutamine deprivation and hypoxia induced a lower δ13C in bulk cell samples, with only the former affecting δ15N. Gaps between theory and experiments were bridged and the lessons learned throughout the process are provided.

Conclusions

Exposing cultured cancer cells to hypoxia allowed us to further investigate the relation between metabolic modulations and natural isotopic variations, while mitigating the confounding impact of changing culture medium composition. This study highlights the potential of natural δ13C variations for studying substrate fluxes and nutrient allocation in reproducible culture conditions. Considering cell yield and culture medium composition is pivotal to the success of this approach.
Protective Effect of Hibifolin on Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Acute Lung Injury Through Akt Phosphorylation and NFκB Pathway
Authors: Ng Yan‐Yan , Ho Yung‐Chuan , Yen Chi‐Hua , Lee Shiuan‐Shinn , Tseng Ching‐Chi , Wu Sheng‐Wen , Kuan Yu‐Hsiang
Published: August 2024

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a difficult condition to manage, especially when it is complicated by bacterial sepsis. Hibifolin, a flavonoid glycoside, has anti‐inflammatory properties that make it a potential treatment for ALI. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness in LPS‐induced ALI. In this study, male ICR mice were treated with hibifolin before LPS‐induced ALI. Protein content and neutrophil count in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were measured by BCA assay and Giemsa staining method, respectively. The levels of proinflammatory cytokines and adhesive molecules were detected by ELISA assay. The expression of NFκB p65 phosphorylation, IκB degradation, and Akt phosphorylation was assessed by western blot assay. Hibifolin pre‐treatment significantly reduced pulmonary vascular barrier dysfunction and neutrophil infiltration into the BAL fluid in LPS‐induced ALI mice. In addition, LPS‐induced expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α) and adhesive molecules (ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1) within the BAL fluid were markedly reduced by hibifolin in LPS‐induced ALI mice. More, hibifolin inhibited LPS‐induced phosphorylation of NFκB p65, degradation of IκB, and phosphorylation of Akt in lungs with ALI mice. In conclusion, hibifolin shows promise in improving the pathophysiological features and proinflammatory responses of LPS‐induced ALI in mice through the NFκB pathway and its upstream factor, Akt phosphorylation.
Using a customizable L stent for laryngotracheal stenosis: Patterns of success and failure
Authors: Casellas Nicolas J. , Keidar Eytan , Anis Mursalin M. , Rosow David E.
Published: August 2024

Background

A recent innovation in the management of tracheostomy‐dependent patients with laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) has been the customizable laryngotracheal stent, made by dividing a T‐tube in half (“L stent”). These L stents can be placed into the subglottis as well as the posterior glottis to prevent rapid re‐stenosis following surgery, and they are easily removed in the office. We sought to review our experience with these stents and analyze patterns of success and failure.

Methods

Retrospective chart review was performed of all tracheostomy‐dependent patients who underwent L stent placement from January 2019 through February 2024. Clinical and demographic data were reviewed, with decannulation as the primary endpoint. Patients were assessed as having comorbid conditions (diabetes, coronary artery disease, morbid obesity, prior radiation) or not.

Results

A total of 16 patients underwent stent placement. Six patients had posterior glottic stenosis (PGS), six had subglottic stenosis (SGS), and four had multilevel stenosis. Of these 16 patients, 9 were ultimately decannulated (56.2%). Three of the successes were PGS (33.3%), four were SGS (44.4%), and two had both SGS and PGS (22.2%). Patients who were decannulated were statistically less likely to have comorbid conditions than patients who failed decannulation (p = 0.0350).

Conclusion

For tracheostomy‐dependent patients who have failed first‐line therapy, endoscopic surgery paired with L stent placement offers a reasonable alternative to open airway reconstruction or more destructive arytenoidectomy or cordotomy procedures. As with most airway surgeries, patient selection is important, as the presence of multilevel stenosis and/or comorbid conditions can predict a higher failure rate.
Holographic turbulence from a random gravitational potential
Authors: Oz Yaron , Waeber Sebastian , Yarom Amos
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study the turbulent dynamics of a relativistic (2 + 1)-dimensional fluid placed in a stochastic gravitational potential. We demonstrate that the dynamics of the fluid can be obtained using a dual holographic description realized by an asymptotically Anti-de Sitter black brane driven by a random boundary metric. Using the holographic duality we study the energy power spectrum of a fluid with an inverse energy cascade and show that it is compatible with that of a compressible fluid flow. We calculate the local energy dissipation and the local fluid velocity distribution which provide other measures of the holographic fluid turbulence.
Endokrine Therapie und Fertilitätsprotektion bei Transgenderpersonen
Authors: Feil Katharina , Jallali Thara , Lanbach Julia , Toth Bettina
Published: August 2024

Bei Personen mit einer Geschlechtsinkongruenz besteht eine Diskrepanz zwischen dem bei Geburt zugewiesenen Geschlecht und der empfundenen Geschlechtsidentität. Mit Einsetzen der Pubertät erleben viele trans Personen eine deutliche Verminderung der Lebensqualität. Studien belegen, dass eine Geschlechtsinkongruenz häufig mit erheblichen negativen Auswirkungen auf die psychische Gesundheit assoziiert ist. Eine geschlechtsangleichende Hormontherapie (GAHT) kann zu einer Linderung der psychischen Symptome führen und die Lebensqualität steigern. Eine GAHT sollte nach den Bedürfnissen der einzelnen Person geplant werden, eine ausführliche Aufklärung über Möglichkeiten und Grenzen der GAHT ist empfehlenswert. Aufgrund der weitreichenden Auswirkungen einer geschlechtsangleichenden Therapie auf die Fertilität sollte bereits vor Beginn einer GAHT eine Aufklärung und Beratung hinsichtlich der Möglichkeiten der Fertilitätsprotektion für einen späteren Kinderwunsch erfolgen.
Calibration of Aseptic Loosening Simulation for Coatings Osteoinductive Effect
Authors: Baroni Sofia , Oliviero Sara , La Mattina Antonino Amedeo , Maglio Melania , Martini Lucia , Fini Milena , Viceconti Marco
Published: August 2024

The risk of aseptic loosening in cementless hip stems can be reduced by improving osseointegration with osteoinductive coatings favoring long-term implant stability. Osseointegration is usually evaluated in vivo studies, which, however, do not reproduce the mechanically driven adaptation process. This study aims to develop an in silico model to predict implant osseointegration and the effect of induced micromotion on long-term stability, including a calibration of the material osteoinductivity with conventional in vivo studies. A Finite Element model of the tibia implanted with pins was generated, exploiting bone-to-implant contact measures of cylindrical titanium alloys implanted in rabbits’ tibiae. The evolution of the contact status between bone and implant was modeled using a finite state machine, which updated the contact state at each iteration based on relative micromotion, shear and tensile stresses, and bone-to-implant distance. The model was calibrated with in vivo data by identifying the maximum bridgeable gap. Afterward, a push-out test was simulated to predict the axial load that caused the macroscopic mobilization of the pin. The bone-implant bridgeable gap ranged between 50 μm and 80 μm. Predicted push-out strength ranged from 19 N to 21 N (5.4 MPa–3.4 MPa) depending on final bone-to-implant contact. Push-out strength agrees with experimental measurements from a previous animal study (4 ± 1 MPa), carried out using the same implant material, coated, or uncoated. This method can partially replace in vivo studies and predict the long-term stability of cementless hip stems.
CircRNA Arf3 suppresses glomerular mesangial cell proliferation and fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy via miR-107-3p/Tmbim6 axis
Authors: Zhang Linping , Jin Gang , Zhang Wei , Wang Qiong , Liang Yan , Dong Qianlan
Published: August 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of microvascular complication associated with diabetes. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been shown to be involved in DN pathogenesis. Hence, this work aimed to explore the role and mechanism of circ_Arf3 in DN. Mouse mesangial cells (MCs) cultured in high glucose (HG) condition were used for functional analysis. Cell proliferation was determined using 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine (EdU) and cell counting kit-8 assays. Western blotting was used to measure the levels of proliferation indicator PCNA and fibrosis-related proteins α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I (Col I), fibronectin (FN), and collagen IV (Col IV). The binding interaction between miR-107-3p and circ_Arf3 or Tmbim6 (transmembrane BAX inhibitor motif containing 6) was confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter and pull-down assays. Circ_Arf3 is a stable circRNA, and the expression of circ_Arf3 was decreased after HG treatment in MCs. Functionally, ectopic overexpression of circ_Arf3 protected against HG-induced proliferation and elevation of fibrosis-related proteins in MCs. Mechanistically, circ_Arf3 directly bound to miR-107-3p, and Tmbim6 was a target of miR-107-3p. Further rescue assay showed miR-107-3p reversed the protective action of circ_Arf3 on MCs function under HG condition. Moreover, inhibition of miR-107-3p suppressed HG-induced proliferation and fibrosis, which were attenuated by Tmbim6 knockdown in MCs. CircRNA Arf3 could suppress HG-evoked mesangial cell proliferation and fibrosis via miR-107-3p/Tmbim6 axis, indicating the potential involvement of this axis in DN progression.
Interlayer ferromagnetic coupling in nonmagnetic elements doped CrI3 thin films
Authors: Li Xuqi , Chen Xuyan , Sun Shiyang , Zhang Huihui , Sang Haidan , Wang Xiaonan , Qi Shifei , Qiao Zhenhua
Published: August 2024

The exploration of magnetism in two-dimensional layered materials has attracted extensive research interest. For the monoclinic phase CrI3 with interlayer antiferromagnetism, finding a static and robust way of realizing the intrinsic interlayer ferromagnetic coupling is desirable. In this work, we study the electronic structure and magnetic properties of the nonmagnetic element (e.g., O, S, Se, N, P, As, and C) doped bi-and triple-layer CrI3 systems via first-principles calculations. Our results demonstrate that O, P, S, As, and Se doped CrI3 bilayer can realize interlayer ferromagnetism. Further analysis shows that the interlayer ferromagnetic coupling in the doped few-layer CrI3 is closely related to the formation of localized spinpolarized state around the doped elements. Further study presents that, for As-doped tri-layer CrI3, it can realize interlayer ferromagnetic coupling. This work proves that nonmagnetic element doping can realize the interlayer ferromagnetically-coupled few-layer CrI3 while maintaining its semiconducting characteristics without introducing additional carriers.
Safety first? Sicherheitsrelevante Ereignisse aus Patientenperspektive
Authors: Brust Larissa , Koch Amelie , Weigl Matthias
Published: August 2024

Hintergrund

Die WHO fordert die Einbeziehung von Patient:innen zur Förderung der Patientensicherheit. Ein unterschiedliches Verständnis von Patientensicherheit zwischen Patient:innen und Expert:innen kann die effektive Implementierung solcher Maßnahmen erschweren. In Deutschland fehlte bislang eine explorative, also erste und vorläufige qualitative Evidenz des Verständnisses von Patientensicherheit aus der Perspektive der Patient:innen.

Zielstellung

Ziel war die Exploration des Verständnisses sowie der Erfahrungen von Patient:innen zu patientensicherheitsrelevanten Ereignissen. Zudem war von Interesse, wie Gesundheitsexpert:innen diese Perspektive von Patient:innen einschätzen.

Methode

Es wurden semistrukturierte Einzelinterviews mit Patient:innen, ihren Vertreter:innen und Gesundheitsexpert:innen (u. a. Ärzt:innen, Qualitätsmanagement und Krankenkassen) durchgeführt. Mithilfe einer qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse erfolgte eine explorative Analyse, Interpretation und Klassifikation der Aussagen.

Ergebnisse

Es wurden 34 Teilnehmende (22 Patient:innen, 12 Expert:innen) rekrutiert. Das Verständnis von Patientensicherheit aus der Perspektive von Patient:innen und die diesbezügliche Einschätzungen von Expert:innen wurden in 3 Handlungsbereiche klassifiziert: (1) medizinische Aspekte, (2) Patientenorientierung und soziale Interaktion, (3) Versorgungsmanagement und Servicequalität. Handlungsbereich (1) umfasst u. a. die Diagnostik, Behandlung, Hygiene, Kompetenzen sowie Folgen sicherheitsrelevanter Ereignisse. Die Bereiche (2) und (3) thematisieren Kommunikation, Respekt und Patientenbeteiligung sowie Koordination und Zugang zur Versorgung, systembedingte Faktoren, Wartezeiten, Personalmangel und Service.

Schlussfolgerung

Kollaborative Anstrengungen und Maßnahmen zur Patientensicherheit können nur gelingen, wenn ein gemeinsames Verständnis von Patientensicherheit besteht. Unsere explorativen Ergebnisse zeigen die Vielfalt von Erfahrungen zur Patientensicherheit aus Patientenperspektive und die unterschiedlichen auslösenden Bedingungen für das Verständnis von Patientensicherheit. Die Ergebnisse können für die Planung und Implementation von Maßnahmen zur Patientensicherheit und -einbeziehung herangezogen werden.
Sex Disparities in Opioid Prescription and Administration on a Hospital Medicine Service
Authors: Yang Nancy , Fang Margaret C. , Rambachan Aksharananda
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Decisions to prescribe opioids to patients depend on many factors, including illness severity, pain assessment, and patient age, race, ethnicity, and gender. Gender and sex disparities have been documented in many healthcare settings, but are understudied in inpatient general medicine hospital settings.

Objective

We assessed for differences in opioid administration and prescription patterns by legal sex in adult patient hospitalizations from the general medicine service at a large urban academic center.

Designs, Setting, and Participants

This study included all adult patient hospitalizations discharged from the acute care inpatient general medicine services at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Helen Diller Medical Center at Parnassus Heights from 1/1/2013 to 9/30/2021.

Main Outcome and Measures

The primary outcomes were (1) average daily inpatient opioids received and (2) days of opioids prescribed on discharge. For both outcomes, we first performed logistic regression to assess differences in whether or not any opioids were administered or prescribed. Then, we performed negative binomial regression to assess differences in the amount of opioids given. We also performed all analyses on a subgroup of hospitalizations with pain-related diagnoses.

Results

Our study cohort included 48,745 hospitalizations involving 27,777 patients. Of these, 24,398 (50.1%) hospitalizations were female patients and 24,347 (49.9%) were male. Controlling for demographic, clinical, and hospitalization-level variables, female patients were less likely to receive inpatient opioids compared to male patents (adjusted OR 0.87; 95% CI 0.82, 0.92) and received 27.5 fewer morphine milligram equivalents per day on average (95% CI - 39.0, - 16.0). When considering discharge opioids, no significant differences were found between sexes. In the subgroup analysis of pain-related diagnoses, female patients received fewer inpatient opioids.

Conclusions

Female patients were less likely to receive inpatient opioids and received fewer opioids when prescribed. Future work to promote equity should identify strategies to ensure all patients receive adequate pain management.
Wer steuert hier wen und was? Die Übersetzung von Paradoxien in Schulentwicklungsprozessen
Authors: Dimai Bettina , Rathgeb Gabriele , Jesacher-Rößler Livia
Published: August 2024

Dieser Beitrag in der Zeitschrift „Gruppe. Interaktion. Organisation. (GIO)“ stellt im Kontext von Bildungsorganisationen ein aus der poststrukturalistischen Akteur-Netzwerk-Theorie stammendes Übersetzungsmodell vor, welches die Perspektive auf Machtverhältnisse und den Umgang mit Paradoxien in Veränderungsprozessen erweitert. Das Modell kann unterschiedlichen Veränderungsakteur/-innen, wie Führungspersonen, Teams oder externer Entwicklungsberatung als analytisch-heuristisches Wahrnehmungsraster dienen. Im Zuge des Autonomiediskurses erhalten Schulen einerseits Freiheit in ihrer konkreten Entwicklungsarbeit, andererseits wird diese durch Monitoring- und Controlling-Instrumente überwacht und begrenzt. Der Steuerungslogik solcher Educational-Governance-Ansätze liegt ein konstitutives Spannungsfeld zugrunde, das durch die pädagogischen Tätigkeiten innewohnenden Antinomien verstärkt wird. Anhand von zwei Fallstudien zu Schulen, die durch multiprofessionelle Teams über mehrere Jahre beraten wurden, wird der Frage nachgegangen, wie die beteiligten Akteur/‑innen – die Schulleitungen und Lehrende auf der einen, die Berater/‑innen auf der anderen Seite – mit den Spannungsfeldern und Widersprüchen, die sich aus der Anlage sowie der Umsetzung des verordneten Entwicklungsprojekts ergeben haben, umgegangen sind: Ist es gelungen, die Antinomien soweit zu übersetzen, dass ein konstruktiver Entwicklungsprozess auf den Weg gebracht wurde? Oder sind Spannungsfelder zu Zerreißproben geworden, an denen der Beratungsprozess scheiterte? Anhand des Übersetzungsmodells werden charakteristische Paradoxien in Bildungsorganisationen aufgezeigt, sowie exemplarisch Praktiken des Umgangs mit diesen nachgezeichnet.
Evaluations of Mechanical Properties and Functionalities of the Al- and Zr-Tailored Ti–5.5Mo Shape Memory Alloys for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Chiu Wan-Ting , Hayakawa Ryunosuke , Nohira Naoki , Tahara Masaki , Inamura Tomonari , Hosoda Hideki
Published: August 2024

Due to the critical world population aging issue, biomaterials are important topics in the biomedical community. Among the biomedical materials, shape memory alloys (SMAs) are considered to be promising materials owing to their functionalities, such as shape memory effect (SME) and superelasticity (SE). Ti–Mo–Al-based alloys, which are biocompatible materials, are basic materials in the Ti-based SMAs due to the evaluation of the phase stability through the calculations of Mo and Al equivalents. This study, in addition, introduced Zr into the Ti–Mo–Al-based alloys for its highly biocompatibility and being a fine modifier to tune the phase stability. The mechanical (i.e., strength and elongation) and functional (i.e., SME and SE) properties have been investigated in this study to reveal the practicability of the biomedical applications for human usage. It was found that addition of Zr to the Ti–Mo alloy shows slight influence on the mechanical properties of the binary Ti–Mo alloy. With the addition of Al, that is, ternary Ti–Mo–Al alloys, two-stage yielding was found in the tensile examinations. Among all the alloys, the Ti–5.5Mo–4Al, the Ti–5.5Mo–4Al–6Zr, and the Ti–5.5Mo–8Al–6Zr (mol pct) alloys performed excellent shape recovery of about 100 pct in the bending and heating tests. Especially, the Ti–5.5Mo–4Al–6Zr and the Ti–5.5Mo–8Al–6Zr alloys further show high strength. Results in this study could be a guideline for the design of the fundamental Ti–Mo–Al-based SMAs.
Next-Generation Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging Techniques for Characterization of Myocardial Disease
Authors: Simkowski Julia , Eck Brendan , Wilson Tang W. H. , Nguyen Christopher , Kwon Deborah H.
Published: August 2024

Purpose of the Review

Many novel cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMR) techniques have been developed for diagnosis, risk stratification, and monitoring of myocardial disease. The field is changing rapidly with advances in imaging technology. The purpose of this review is to give an update on next-generation cMR techniques with promising developments for clinical translation in the last two years, and to outline clinical applications.

Recent Findings

There has been increasing widespread clinical adoption of T1/T2 mapping into standard of care clinical practice. Development of auto segmentation has enabled clinical integration, with potential applications to minimize the use of contrast. Advances in diffusion tensor imaging, multiparametric mapping with cardiac MRI fingerprinting, automated quantitative perfusion mapping, metabolic imaging, elastography, and 4D flow are advancing the ability of cMR to provide further quantitative characterization to enable deep myocardial disease phenotyping. Together these advanced imaging features further augment the ability of cMR to contribute to novel disease characterization and may provide an important platform for personalized medicine.

Next-generation cMR techniques provide unique quantitative imaging features that can enable the identification of imaging biomarkers that may further refine disease classification and risk prediction. However, widespread clinical application continues to be limited by ground truth validation, reproducibility of the techniques across vendor platforms, increased scan time, and lack of widespread availability of advanced cardiac MRI physicists and expert readers. However, these techniques show great promise in minimizing the need for invasive testing, may elucidate novel pathophysiology, and may provide the ability for more accurate diagnosis of myocardial disease.