bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antifungal Potential of Some Nigerian Indigenous Plants: A Remedy for Candidiasis
Authors: Aboh Mercy I. , Yakubu Japhet G. , U. Eze Jude , Khalid-Salako Fahd , Oladosu Peters O.
Published: January 2022

Background: Invasive candidiasis has been recognized as a major cause of mortality and morbidity in hospital settings across the globe. Aside from C. albicans, other Candida species (C. glabarata, C. parapsilosis, and C. tropicalis) associated with invasive candidiasis have been reported as a public health challenge.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activities of extracts of some indigenous plants using the agar disc diffusion method.

Methods: Fresh samples of the plant parts were collected, identified, air dried, pulverized and extracted using standard methods. The extracts were screened against clinical isolates of  C. albicans, C. glabarata, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis using agar disc diffusion method.

Results: All plant extracts exhibited varying inhibition zones ranging from 8.0 - 24.0 mm against the tested isolates. Fractions of Acalypha wilkesiana Macrophylla (AWRF5) showed the lowest activities against all the test isolates with zones of inhibition ranging from 10.0-13.0 mm while AWRF6 fraction of the same plant demonstrated highest antifungal activities against all the test isolates with zones of inhibition ranging from 14.0-24 mm followed by fractions of Acalypha wilkesiana Hoffmanii (AWGF6), which demonstrated high (14.0 - 20.0 mm) antifungal activities.

Conclusion: The Plants understudied possessed antifungal potentials and can serve as lead in the development of phytomedicines to combat candidiasis decrease medical as well as financial burden, hence improving the management of cirrhotic patients. These predictors, however, need further work to validate reliability.
Cognitive Impairment within Patients of Schizophrenia and Mood Disorder: A Comparative Study
Authors: Patil Swaroopa V. Lunge , Behere Prakash B.
Published: January 2022

Background: Memory dysfunction, deficits in attention and executive functions as well impairment in cognition is found among patient suffering from Schizophrenia and Mood Disorder throughout the course of illness. All these significantly impact various domains of life in them. It also affects the patient’s insight into the illness and thus impairs therapeutic compliance.

Objectives:

To evaluate Cognitive functions in patients with Schizophrenia and Mood Disorder.

To compare both groups to see whether cognitive dysfunction varies between them.

Methodology:

Study Design: Cross-sectional study which is Hospital-based.

Study-Setting: The IPD and OPD of Psychiatry Department, AVBRH, Sawangi (M), Wardha.

Sample Size: 240 (120 patients with Schizophrenia and Mood Disorder each).

Patients clinically diagnosed having Schizophrenia and Mood disorder using ICD-10 criteria of age group 18-55 years, with at least 8 years of schooling will be included in the study after taking written informed consents. After collecting socio-demographic data and screening the patients with the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, the PGI Battery of Brain Dysfunction will be applied to the patients.

Results: This study will assess of impairment of Cognitive functions Schizophrenia as well as Mood Disorder patients would tell whether the cognitive impairment is the same or different in both groups.

Conclusion: Comparison of impairment in cognitive functions in Schizophrenia as well as Mood Disorder patients would be done. Co-relation of Cognitive impairment with Metabolic syndrome in both groups can be established.
An Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) towards Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Rao M. Varaprasanna , Yugaprasanth T.
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is an endocrine metabolic disorder whereas Diabetic retinopathy is a major complication of diabetes. Diabetes occurs due to defect in insulin secretion, action, or both which in turn leads to chronic hyperglycemia with disturbances of carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism and is associated with long-term damage, dysfunction, and failure of different organs (eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels). DR is a progressive alteration in the microvasculature that lead to retinal ischemia, altered retinal permeability, neovascularisation, macular edema.

Methods and Materials: It was a prospective cross-sectional study, which was carried out over a period of 6 months (December-2020 to May-2021). The knowledge, attitude and practice were assessed in diabetic patients on diabetes and diabetic retinopathy by using questionnaires. A total of 362 diabetic patients are included in this study. The completed questionnaires were collected and analysed using SPSS software (version 19) and results were expressed in percentages.

Results and Discussion: In the study, majority of the patient were male and in the age group of 46-55 years. Patients had good knowledge on diabetes when compared to diabetic retinopathy, positive attitude was seen towards diabetes than diabetic retinopathy and good practice patterns were observed in diabetes retinopathy than diabetes.

Conclusion: Our study concluded that the patients had good knowledge on about diabetes and a very poor knowledge on diabetic retinopathy. Positive attitude was seen in diabetes than diabetic retinopathy where as good practice patterns was seen in diabetic retinopathy than diabetes patients.
Efficacy of Modified Putikadi Ointment and Ketoconazole in the Treatment of Dadru (Tinea Corporis)
Authors: Urkude Minakshi A. , Chalakh Sonali , Pargaonkar Akshay
Published: January 2022

Dadru is one of the most common but miserable Twak Vikar affecting all the ages of population. Increasing urbanization and industrialization have posted greater danger due to pollution and contamination with toxic, allergic and chemicals in our daily life, this fungal infection is commonly found in higher society and also in lower society due to unhygiene. According to Ayurveda, Dadru kushtha is Kapha-pitta predominance disease. It is managed by Shodhana, Shamana and Local application which may be called as Bahiparimarjan chikitsa. In today’s fast life no one has spent so much time, they want quick relief so Local application is the best line of treatment. It works fast due to its physiological effect on external skin in the form of Lepa or ointment. Putikadi Lepa which is mentioned in Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya includes fresh leaves of Karanja (Putik), Arka, Aragwadha, Snuhi and Jati with Gomutra reduces the symptoms of Dadru. All the drugs of Putikadi Lepa are kushtaghna, kandughna, and krimighna type. So it is more effective in Dadru kushta. But it is not possible every time to give fresh Lepa to the patients, so formulation was prepared in the form of ointment for convenience of patients in previous study. When the pilot study was carried out on Putikadi ointment, it was observed that the ointment has pungent smell after application due to Gomutra, so to remove this drawback some drugs should be added like Manjistha and Yashtimadhu to enhance the complexion of skin. This study should be taken to evaluate the efficacy of modified Putikadi ointment in the treatment of Dadru.
Isolation and Identification of Bacillus Cereus and Escherichia coli from Food Sample Sold Within, Kaduna Town
Authors: Mato D. B. , Orukotan A. A. , Dadah A. J. , Peter F. Y. , Alfa A. A.
Published: January 2022

This study was carried out to isolate and identify Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli. Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli were isolated and identified from food samples sold from local food vendors within Kaduna town, Nigeria. This was done using conventional standard method. The molecular characteristics were confirmed by the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique. The results of the microscopic characteristics of the isolates revealed that B. cereus is a Gram positive, rod shaped bacterium. The colony of the bacteria appeared rough with dried pink background surrounded by egg yolk precipitate on MYP medium while E. coli appeared Gram negative rod shaped under the microscope. And its colony on plate appeared flat with green metallic sheen on Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) agar. The biochemical identification showed that B. cereus is positive to haemolysis, catalase, citrate, Vouges Proskauer, motility and spore tests. While E. coli is positive to catalase, indole, methyl red and motility tests and showed a green sheen characteristics on Eosin Methylene blue agar. The PCR showed band at 204bp amplicons of 16S rDNA primer targeting bacterial DNA templates V3 hyper-variable region for B. cereus and E. coli respectively. The amplified DNA was sequenced and BLAST and accession number of KY962911.1 and KY009556.1 were obtained for B. cereus and E. coli respectively
A method for time‐independent film dosimetry: Can we obtain accurate patient‐specific QA results at any time postirradiation?
Authors: Dunn Leon , Godwin Guy , Hellyer James , Xu Xiaolei
Published: January 2022

Aim

The aim of this work was twofold. (1) To investigate and present a comparison between EBT3 and EBT‐XD in terms of postirradiation color changes. (2) Create an automated workflow to allow radiochromic film (EBT3/XD) to be scanned and converted to dose accurately at any postirradiation time.

Materials and Methods

Ten GafChromic EBT‐XD calibration films were exposed in 2 Gy increments up to 18 Gy. Calibrates were then scanned at 5‐min intervals postirradiation over 24 h using an AutoHotKey script, resulting in 288 TIFF images. Following the 24‐h scanning period, a MATLAB script was used to automatically read the tiff images and create a series of 288 calibration curves distinct in time which is termed as the “Temporal Calibration Model” (TCM). The model is saved as a series of polynomial fit coefficients to net optical density as a function of dose, timestamped in 5‐min increments. Ten patient‐specific film measurements (5 × EBT‐XD and 5 × EBT3) were then carried out and scanned using the same 5‐min scan intervals from 5 min postirradiation to 24 h postirradiation. The TCM was then automatically applied using eFilmQA software to convert the patient‐specific QA films to dose by applying the relevant calibration curve from the TCM, corresponding to the arbitrary postirradiation time that the film was scanned. Each dose plane at postirradiation scan intervals of 5 min up to 20 h was then compared to the ground‐truth dose plane using gamma analysis.

Results

Gamma pass rates using the TCM at time t, normalized to the pass rate after 20 h postirradiation, were found to have a maximum coefficient of variation of 3% over any postirradiation time. Conversely, not using the TCM resulted in coefficients of variation of up to 39%. Clinical implementation of this method showed an average accuracy of 2.8% when comparing the clinical result to the TCM result.

Conclusions

We have developed a methodology that allows radiochromic film to be accurately used as a dosimeter at any arbitrary scan postirradiation time, whereas previously, waiting periods of 16–24 h before readout were needed to ensure the postirradiation changes had stabilized. The creation of a TCM can enable results from radiochromic film measurements to be obtained quickly postirradiation. Using a conventional single calibration curve generated at 20 h postirradiation can result in gamma pass‐rate difference of up to 75% for measurement films scanned at a much shorter postirradiation time.
Site‐Engineered Tetragonal ZrO2 Nanoparticles: A Promising Oxygen Reduction Catalyst with High Activity and Chemical Stability in Alkaline Medium
Authors: Veettil Vineesh Thazhe , Mohankumar Meera , Zitoun David
Published: January 2022

Practical implementation of anion exchange membrane fuel cells mainly relies on the choice of highly active and stable oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts. Transition metal oxides based on Group 4 and 5 are well known for their chemical stability and corrosion‐resistance and they are earth‐abundant too. Among them, zirconia (ZrO2) has exceptional chemical stability, but its poor conductivity and less active sites hinder the application of zirconia‐based materials toward ORR. In order to bring out the best activity from ZrO2, careful site engineering without losing the phase purity and chemical stability is essential. In this context, nitrogen doping on tetragonal zirconia (t‐ZrO2) as a viable method to obtain a highly active ORR catalyst is adopted. The temperature for the phase pure synthesis of t‐ZrO2 is optimized by crystallographic study. The nitrogen doping in the zirconia lattice is confirmed by various microscopy and spectroscopy analysis. The N doped tetragonal zirconia nanoparticles on N doped carbon (N:ZrO2–NC) show much improved ORR activity than pristine zirconia counterparts in terms of onset potential, current density, and 4e_ selectivity in alkaline medium. The ORR activity of N:ZrO2‐NC is approaching the one of Pt/C with excellent chemical and electrochemical stability.
Ferromagnetic Double Perovskite Semiconductors with Tunable Properties
Authors: Jin Lun , Ni Danrui , Gui Xin , Straus Daniel B. , Zhang Qiang , Cava Robert J.
Published: January 2022

The authors successfully dope the magnetically silent double perovskite semiconductor Sr2GaSbO6 to induce ferromagnetism and tune its bandgap, with Ga3+ partially substituted by the magnetic trivalent cation Mn3+, in a rigid cation ordering with Sb5+. The new ferromagnetic semiconducting Sr2Ga1−xMnxSbO6 double perovskite, which crystallizes in tetragonal symmetry (space group I4/m) and has tunable ferromagnetic ordering temperature and bandgap, suggests that magnetic ion doping of double perovskites is a productive avenue toward obtaining materials for application in next‐generation oxide‐based spintronic devices.
Atomic Chromium Coordinated Graphitic Carbon Nitride for Bioinspired Antibiofouling in Seawater
Authors: Luo Qiang , Li Yilan , Huo Xiaobing , Li Linqian , Song Yinqiao , Chen Shipeng , Lin Hong , Wang Ning
Published: January 2022

Artificial nanozymes exerting enzyme functionality are recognized as promising alternatives of natural enzymes in biomimetic chemistry. Natural haloperoxidases that utilize hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to catalytically convert halide into strong biocidal hypohalous acid hold great promise for thwarting biofouling, while their practical application remains highly questionable as instability of natural enzymes and inadequate H2O2. Herein a semiconducting nanozyme consisting of chromium single atoms coordinated on carbon nitride (Cr‐SA‐CN) that performs bifunctional roles of nonsacrificial H2O2 photosynthesis and haloperoxidase‐mimicking activity for antibiofouling is constructed. Such nanozyme is capable of generating H2O2 from water and O2 upon visible‐light illumination, and then sustainably self‐supplying H2O2 for haloperoxidase‐mimicking reaction in a sequential manner. This dual‐activity Cr‐SA‐CN overcomes H2O2 dilemma and yields hypobromous acid continuously, inducing remarkable bactericidal capability. When used as an eco‐friendly coating additive, it is successfully demonstrated that Cr‐SA‐CN enables an inert surface against marine biofouling. Thereby, this study not only illustrates an attractive strategy for antibiofouling but also opens an avenue to construct valuable nanoplatform with multifunctionality for future applications.
A Comparison of Immobilised Triphenylphosphine and 1‐Hydroxybenzotriazole as Mediators of Catch‐and‐Release Acylation Under Flow Conditions
Authors: Tadros Joseph , Dankers Christian , Jurisinec Ashley , Menti‐Platten Maria , Aldrich‐Wright Janice R. , Gordon Christopher P.
Published: January 2022

Described herein is a comparative study of immobilised triphenylphosphine (PS‐PPh3) and 1‐hydroxybenzotriazole (PS‐HOBt) to mediate amide couplings under continuous flow. Compared to Appel‐type amidations (PS‐PPh3), the developed ‘catch‐and‐release’ approach (PS‐HOBt) afforded near‐quantitative amide conversions. Utilising this strategy, sulfonyl chloride amenability enabled facile access to an expanded library of sulfonate and sulfonamides. Post‐constructional peptide modification was also demonstrated, affording two Nβ‐functionalised pentapeptides in high yields and purities. In contrast to frequently utilised coupling agents, the PS‐HOBt resin could be recycled six times without a reduction in efficacy or regeneration requirements.
Study on luminescence properties of Ce3+ and Eu3+ ions in a nanocrystalline hexagonal Zn4Al22O37 novel system
Authors: Bobade Dinesh S. , Parauha Yatish R. , Dhoble Sanjay J. , Undre Prabhakar B.
Published: January 2022

The present communication is strongly focused on the investigation of synthesis, structural and luminescence properties of cerium (Ce3+)‐ and europium (Eu3+)‐activated Zn4Al22O37 phosphors. Ce3+‐ and Eu3+‐doped Zn4Al22O37 novel phosphors were prepared using a solution combustion synthesis route. Structural properties were studied using powder X‐ray diffraction and high‐resolution transverse electron microscopy. The optical properties were studied using ultraviolet–visible light spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; luminescence properties were studied using a photoluminescence (PL) technique. The crystal structure of the prepared Zn4Al22O37 host and Ce3+‐ and Eu3+‐activated Zn4Al22O37 phosphors was investigated and was found to have a hexagonal structure. The measured PL emission spectrum of the Ce3+‐doped Zn4Al22O37 phosphor showed an intense and broad emission band centred at 421 nm under a 298 nm excitation wavelength. By contrast, the Eu3+‐doped Zn4Al22O37 phosphor exhibited two strong and intense emission bands at approximately 594 nm (orange) and 614 nm (red), which were monitored under 395 nm excitation. The Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage (CIE) colour coordinates of the Ce3+‐doped Zn4Al22O37 were investigated and found to be x = 0.1567, y = 0.0637 (blue) at 421 nm and for Eu3+‐doped Zn4Al22O37 were x = 0.6018, y = 0.3976 (orange) at 594 nm and x = 0.6779, y = 0.3219 (red) at 614 nm emission. The luminescence behaviour of the synthesized phosphors suggested that these phosphors may be used in lighting applications.
Fatal air embolism: A grave complication during diagnostic flexible bronchoscopy
Authors: Bilali Sokol , Bilali Valbona , Saraci Blerina , Zekja Ilirjana , Nina Helidon
Published: January 2022

Flexible fiber‐optic bronchoscopy is used to determine diagnoses in pulmonary diseases. It is considered as a safe procedure, although some complications might occur, one of which is cerebral air embolism. In this case, we present the air embolism after the bronchoscopy procedure, ending in fatality. We strongly recommend that bronchoscopists should keep this complication in mind and be aware of early symptoms pertaining to the patient's state of consciousness during bronchoscopy examination. Early treatment is essential in this situation.
Cardiac MRI predictors of adverse outcomes in adults with a systemic right ventricle
Authors: Lewis Matthew J. , Van Dissel Alexandra , Kochav Jonathan , DiLorenzo Michael P. , Ginns Jonathan , Zemer‐Wassercug Noa , Groenink Maarten , Mulder Barbara , Rosenbaum Marlon
Published: January 2022

Aims

Predicting risk in individuals with a systemic right ventricle (SRV) remains difficult. We assessed the value of cardiac MRI (CMR) for predicting death, heart transplantation (HT), or need for a ventricular assist device (VAD) in adults with D‐transposition of the great arteries (DTGA) post Mustard/Senning and in adults with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (ccTGA) at two large academic centres.

Methods and results

Between December 1999 and November 2020, 158 adult patients with an SRV underwent CMR. Indexed right ventricular end‐diastolic volume (RVEDVI), indexed right ventricular end‐systolic volume (RVESVI), right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF), and right ventricular mass (RV mass) were determined by a core laboratory. Receiver operating curves, area under the curve (AUC), and cut‐points maximizing sensitivity and specificity for the endpoint for each CMR parameter were calculated. Over a median of 8.5 years, 21 patients (13%) met a combined endpoint of HT referral, VAD, or death. Each CMR parameter was significantly associated with the endpoint in both cohorts. The AUCs for RVEDVI, RVESVI, RVEF, and RV mass to predict the endpoint were 0.93, 0.90, 0.73, and 0.84 for DTGA and 0.76, 0.74, 0.71, and 0.74 for ccTGA, respectively. Optimized cut‐points for RVEDVI were calculated for DTGA and ccTGA and were 132 and 126 mL/m2, respectively. RVEDVI cut‐points were simplified to 130 mL/m2 for survival analysis, which was significantly associated with survival in both cohorts.

Conclusions

Cardiac MRI parameters are associated with an increased risk of death, HT, or VAD in patients with an SRV and should be considered to facilitate risk stratification.
Blood pressure trajectories in early adulthood and myocardial structure and function in later life
Authors: Zhou Haobin , Zhang Hao , Zhan Qiong , Bai Yujia , Liu Shenrong , Yang Xi , Li Jiaying , Ma Zhuang , Huang Xingfu , Zeng Qingchun , Ren Hao , Xu Dingli
Published: January 2022

Aims

This study sought to investigate the association between blood pressure (BP) trajectories from early to middle adulthood and echocardiographic indices of structure and function in middle age.

Methods and results

This prospective cohort study included 4717 black and white adults aged 18–30 years at baseline (1985–86) who were followed over 30 years in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. Trajectories of systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and pulse pressure (PP) from the Year 0 examination to Year 30 examination were identified using latent mixture modelling. Echocardiographic indices of myocardial structure, systolic function, and diastolic function were assessed at the Year 30 examination. Five distinct SBP trajectory groups were identified: low‐stable [1110 participants (23.5%)], moderate‐stable [2188 (46.4%)], high‐stable [850 (18.0%)], moderate‐increasing [416 (8.8%)], and high‐increasing [153 (3.2%)]. After adjustment for clinical variables, a significant decreasing trend was observed from the high‐increasing and moderate‐increasing groups through to the low‐stable group for left ventricular (LV) mass index [mean (SE): high‐increasing, 112.3 (3.4); moderate‐increasing, 99.3 (2.6); high‐stable, 88.9 (2.5); moderate‐stable, 86.1 (2.3); low‐stable, 82.1 (2.4), P trend < 0.01], as well as LV end‐diastolic dimension, left atrial volume index, and E/e′, while an increasing trend was apparent for LV longitudinal strain, E/A ratio, and average e′ velocities. Results were generally consistent for trajectories of DBP and PP.

Conclusions

Higher BP trajectories from early to middle adulthood were associated with worse indices of myocardial modelling and LV systolic and diastolic function at middle age.
Associations between aflatoxin B1‐albumin adduct levels with metabolic conditions in Guatemala: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Alvarez Christian S. , Rivera‐Andrade Alvaro , Kroker‐Lobos María F. , Florio Andrea A. , Smith Joshua W. , Egner Patricia A. , Freedman Neal D. , Lazo Mariana , Guallar Eliseo , Dean Michael , Graubard Barry I. , Ramírez‐Zea Manuel , McGlynn Katherine A. , Groopman John D.
Published: January 2022

Background and Aims

Metabolic conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are highly prevalent in Guatemala and increase the risk for a number of disorders, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) levels are also notably elevated in the population and are known to be associated with HCC risk. Whether AFB1 also contributes to the high prevalence of the metabolic disorders has not been previously examined. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the association between AFB1 and the metabolic conditions.

Methods

Four‐hundred twenty‐three individuals were included in the study, in which AFB1‐albumin adduct levels were measured in sera. Metabolic conditions included diabetes, obesity, central obesity, metabolic syndrome, and NAFLD. Crude and adjusted prevalence odds ratios (PORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated for the associations between the metabolic conditions and AFB1‐albumin adduct levels categorized into quartiles.

Results

The study found a significant association between AFB1‐albumin adduct levels and diabetes (Q4 vs Q1 POR = 3.74, 95%CI: 1.71‐8.19; P‐trend .003). No associations were observed between AFB1‐albumin adduct levels and the other conditions.

Conclusions

As diabetes is the metabolic condition most consistently linked to HCC, the possible association between AFB1 exposure and diabetes may be of public health importance. Further studies are warranted to replicate the findings and examine potential mechanisms.
Alcohol metabolism genes and risks of site‐specific cancers in Chinese adults: An 11‐year prospective study
Authors: Im Pek Kei , Yang Ling , Kartsonaki Christiana , Chen Yiping , Guo Yu , Du Huaidong , Lin Kuang , Kerosi Rene , Hacker Alex , Liu Jingchao , Yu Canqing , Lv Jun , Walters Robin G. , Li Liming , Chen Zhengming , Millwood Iona Y. ,   the China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) Collaborative Group
Published: January 2022

Two genetic variants that alter alcohol metabolism, ALDH2‐rs671 and ADH1B‐rs1229984, can modify oesophageal cancer risk associated with alcohol consumption in East Asians, but their associations with other cancers remain uncertain. ALDH2‐rs671 G>A and ADH1B‐rs1229984 G>A were genotyped in 150 722 adults, enrolled from 10 areas in China during 2004 to 2008. After 11 years' follow‐up, 9339 individuals developed cancer. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for site‐specific cancers associated with these genotypes, and their potential interactions with alcohol consumption. Overall, the A‐allele frequency was 0.21 for ALDH2‐rs671 and 0.69 for ADH1B‐rs1229984, with A‐alleles strongly associated with lower alcohol consumption. Among men, ALDH2‐rs671 AA genotype was associated with HR of 0.69 (95% confidence interval: 0.53‐0.90) for IARC alcohol‐related cancers (n = 1900), compared to GG genotype. For ADH1B‐rs1229984, the HRs of AG and AA vs GG genotype were 0.80 (0.69‐0.93) and 0.75 (0.64‐0.87) for IARC alcohol‐related cancers, 0.61 (0.39‐0.96) and 0.61 (0.39‐0.94) for head and neck cancer (n = 196) and 0.68 (0.53‐0.88) and 0.60 (0.46‐0.78) for oesophageal cancer (n = 546). There were no significant associations of these genotypes with risks of liver (n = 651), colorectal (n = 556), stomach (n = 725) or lung (n = 1135) cancers. Among male drinkers, the risks associated with higher alcohol consumption were greater among ALDH2‐rs671 AG than GG carriers for head and neck, oesophageal and lung cancers (Pinteraction < .02). Among women, only 2% drank alcohol regularly, with no comparable associations observed between genotype and cancer. These findings support the causal effects of alcohol consumption on upper aerodigestive tract cancers, with ALDH2‐rs671 AG genotype further exacerbating the risks.
The association between bromodomain proteins and cancer stemness in different solid tumor types
Authors: Czerwinska Patrycja , Jaworska Anna Maria , Wlodarczyk Nikola Agata , Cisek Małgorzata , Karwacka Marianna , Lipowicz Julia , Ostapowicz Julia , Rosochowicz Monika , Mackiewicz Andrzej Adam
Published: January 2022

Cancer stemness, which covers the stem cell‐like molecular traits of cancer cells, is essential for tumor development, progression and relapse. Both transcriptional and epigenetic aberrations are essentially connected with cancer stemness. The engagement of bromodomain (BrD) proteins—a family of epigenetic factors—has been presented in the pathogenesis of several tumor types, although their association with cancer stemness remains largely unknown. Here, we harnessed TCGA and GEO databases and used several bioinformatic tools (ie, Oncomine, PrognoScan, GEPIA2, TIMER2.0, TISIDB, GSEA, R2 platform) to characterize the association between the BrD family members' expression and cancer stemness in solid tumors. Our results demonstrate that significant upregulation of ATAD2 and SMARCA4, and downregulation of SMARCA2 is consistently associated with enriched cancer stem cell‐like phenotype, respectively. Especially, higher‐grade tumors that display stem cell‐like properties overexpress ATAD2. In contrast to most BrD members, the gene expression profiles of ATAD2HIGH expressing tumors are strongly enriched with known markers of stem cells and with specific targets for c‐Myc transcription factor. For other BrD proteins, the association with cancer de‐differentiation status is rather tumor‐specific. Our results demonstrate for the first time the relation between distinct BrD family proteins and cancer stemness across 27 solid tumor types. Specifically, our approach allowed us to discover a robust association of high ATAD2 expression with cancer stemness and reveal its' versatility in tumors. As bromodomains are attractive targets from a chemical and structural perspective, we propose ATAD2 as a novel druggable target for de‐differentiated tumors, especially those overexpressing MYC.
IFRS 8 and the cost of capital in Europe
Authors: Saleh Ahmed , Aboud Ahmed , Eliwa Yasser
Published: January 2022

This study examines segment reporting information usefulness after the adoption of IFRS 8 in 18 European Union countries. Specifically, 1) we introduce a new comprehensive measure of segment reporting quality that reflects four different dimensions of segment information, 2) we investigate the impact of segment reporting quality on the cost of equity and debt capital after the adoption of IFRS 8, and 3) we investigate the moderating role of the country‐level enforcement system on the association between segment reporting quality and the cost of equity and debt capital after the adoption of IFRS 8. Using a self‐constructed segment reporting quality measure and a sample of 884 firm‐year observations over the period of 2007 to 2011, we provide evidence that investors and lending institutions find no change in the usefulness of segment reporting after the adoption of IFRS 8. Our study is original in using a comprehensive measure of segment reporting quality. Furthermore, our study is the first to examine the relationship between segment reporting quality and the cost of debt capital after the adoption of IFRS 8 and the moderating role of the country‐level enforcement system. Our findings provide useful insights to regulator and accounting standard‐setting bodies about segment reporting.
Red blood cell distribution width: A severity indicator in patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Wang Zhong‐hua , Fu Bing‐qi , Lin Ying‐wen , Wei Xue‐biao , Geng Heng , Guo Wei‐xin , Yuan Hui‐qing , Liao You‐wan , Qin Tie‐he , Li Fei , Wang Shou‐hong
Published: January 2022

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) was frequently assessed in COVID‐19 infection and reported to be associated with adverse outcomes. However, there was no consensus regarding the optimal cutoff value for RDW. Records of 98 patients with COVID‐19 from the First People's Hospital of Jingzhou were reviewed. They were divided into two groups according to the cutoff value for RDW on admission by receiver operator characteristic curve analysis: ≤11.5% (n = 50) and >11.5% (n = 48). The association of RDW with the severity and outcomes of COVID‐19 was analyzed. The receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that the RDW was a good discrimination factor for identifying COVID‐19 severity (area under the curve = 0.728, 95% CI: 0.626–0.830, p < 0.001). Patients with RDW > 11.5% more frequently suffered from critical COVID‐19 than those with RDW ≤ 11.5% (62.5% vs. 26.0%, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed RDW to be an independent predictor for critical illness due to COVID‐19 (OR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.27−4.55, p = 0.007). A similar result was obtained when we included RDW > 11.5% into another model instead of RDW as a continuous variable (OR = 5.41, 95% CI: 1.53−19.10, p = 0.009). RDW, as an inexpensive and routinely measured parameter, showed promise as a predictor for critical illness in patients with COVID‐19 infection. RDW > 11.5% could be the optimal cutoff to discriminate critical COVID‐19 infection.
Tannins as interphase corrosion inhibitors for aluminum in near‐neutral chloride solutions
Authors: Byrne Christian , D'Alessandro Oriana , Deyá Cecilia
Published: January 2022

The addition of tara and quebracho colorado tannins remarkably reduces the corrosion rate of aluminum in near‐neutral and naturally aerated NaCl solutions. The experimental results (potentiodynamic polarization curves, corrosion potential measurements, scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy [SEM‐EDS] analysis on exposed surfaces) show that both tannins behave as a mixed‐type corrosion inhibitor of aluminum. In the absence of tannins, the SEM‐EDS analysis of the exposed samples demonstrates the accumulation of corrosion products and the existence of chlorinated compounds adsorbed on the metal surface. In the samples immersed in both tannins solutions, a more homogenous and compact layer is formed over the aluminum surface. Furthermore, in these layers chlorine was not found, revealing a high blocking capacity of the chloride adsorption when the tannins are present. Taking into account these findings, an inhibitory mechanism of aluminum corrosion is proposed. This mechanism is interphase inhibition, which involves the adsorption and incorporation of tannin molecules during the corrosion products passive layer formation, resulting in a protective three‐dimensional structure that retards both anodic and cathodic reactions.
Differential Phospho‐Signatures in Blood Cells Identify LRRK2 G2019S Carriers in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Garrido Alicia , Santamaría Enrique , Fernández‐Irigoyen Joaquín , Soto Marta , Simonet Cristina , Fernández Manel , Obiang Donina , Tolosa Eduardo , Martí María‐José , Padmanabhan Shalini , Malagelada Cristina , Ezquerra Mario , Fernández‐Santiago Rubén
Published: January 2022

Background

The clinicopathological phenotype of G2019S LRRK2‐associated Parkinson's disease (L2PD) is similar to idiopathic Parkinson's disease (iPD), and G2019S LRRK2 nonmanifesting carriers (L2NMCs) are at increased risk for development of PD. With various therapeutic strategies in the clinical and preclinical pipeline, there is an urgent need to identify biomarkers that can aid early diagnosis and patient enrichment for ongoing and future LRRK2‐targeted trials.

Objective

The objective of this work was to investigate differential protein and phospho‐protein changes related to G2019S mutant LRRK2 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from G2019S L2PD patients and G2019S L2NMCs, identify specific phospho‐protein changes associated with the G2019S mutation and with disease status, and compare findings with patients with iPD.

Methods

We performed an unbiased phospho‐proteomic study by isobaric label–based mass spectrometry using peripheral blood mononuclear cell group pools from a LRRK2 cohort from Spain encompassing patients with G2019S L2PD (n = 20), G2019S L2NMCs (n = 20), healthy control subjects (n = 30), patients with iPD (n = 15), patients with R1441G L2PD (n = 5), and R1441G L2NMCs (n = 3) (total N = 93).

Results

Comparing G2019S carriers with healthy controls, we identified phospho‐protein changes associated with the G2019S mutation. Moreover, we uncovered a specific G2019S phospho‐signature that changes with disease status and can discriminate patients with G2019S L2PD, G2019S L2NMCs, and healthy controls. Although patients with iPD showed a differential phospho‐proteomic profile, biological enrichment analyses revealed similar changes in deregulated pathways across the three groups.

Conclusions

We found a differential phospho‐signature associated with LRRK2 G2019S for which, consistent with disease status, the phospho‐profile from PD at‐risk G2019S L2NMCs was more similar to healthy controls than patients with G2019S L2PD with the manifested disease. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Tap Water Aesthetics: The Tail That Wags the Dog
Authors: Adams Hunter , Burlingame Gary A. , Furatian Laith , Chowdhury Zaid K.
Published: January 2022

Over the years, aesthetic problems have been a widespread nuisance that comes and goes and is forgotten until the problems arise again. The taste, odor, and appearance of water that consumers enjoy affects their perceptions of water safety and reliability.
Research Sheds New Light on Gate Valve Bypasses
Authors: Scott Derek B. , Helf John R.
Published: January 2022

Features used to operate newer resilient‐seated gate valves have eliminated the need for traditional valve bypasses. Recent research suggests bypasses may not be required.
Epitaxially crystallized polyethylene exhibiting near‐equilibrium melting temperatures*
Authors: Wang Yucheng , Liu Jason X. , Gu Kaichen , Soman Anishkumar , Gu Tingyi , Arnold Craig B. , Register Richard A. , Loo Yueh‐Lin , Priestley Rodney D.
Published: January 2022

The morphology and orientation of polymer crystals are important factors which determine the performance of thin‐film, polymer‐based technologies such as organic electronic devices and gas separation membranes. Here, we utilize polymer‐substrate epitaxy to achieve a highly oriented crystalline morphology during thin‐film processing. To accomplish this, we employ matrix‐assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE), a slow physical vapor deposition process, to deposit linear polyethylene epitaxially atop a graphene substrate. Via MAPLE, we demonstrate the ability to achieve a film morphology comprised of well‐aligned, edge‐on crystalline lamellae. Furthermore, we show that MAPLE can be exploited to grow crystalline lamellae composed entirely of extended polymer chains which exhibit a near‐equilibrium melting temperature. Our study demonstrates that MAPLE, as a bottom‐up approach, can deposit polymer thin films with improved control over crystalline morphology.
Anionic ring‐opening polymerization behavior of trans‐cyclohexene carbonate using metal tert‐butoxides: Construction of living anionic ring‐opening polymerization by lithium tert‐butoxide
Authors: Kawamoto Masato , Mori Yasuyuki , Tsuge Akihiko , Endo Takeshi
Published: January 2022

Anionic ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) behavior of trans‐cyclohexene carbonate (CHC) using metal alkoxides as initiators was investigated. As a result, lithium tert‐butoxide‐initiated ROP of CHC with a high‐monomer concentration (10 M) at low temperature (−15 to −10°C) proceeded to afford a poly(trans‐cyclohexene carbonate) (PCHC) without undesired side reactions such as mainly backbiting. The suppression of side reactions enables the control of the molecular weight (Mn = 2400–6100) of PCHC with low molar‐mass dispersity values (Mw/Mn = 1.16–1.22). Furthermore, by increasing the feed ratio of the monomer to the initiator, the molecular weight increases proportionally, indicating a controllable polymerization. The results of a matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry analysis, a kinetic study, and a chain extension experiment suggested a living nature of this ROP using lithium tert‐butoxide.
Structures of plasmepsin X from Plasmodium falciparum reveal a novel inactivation mechanism of the zymogen and molecular basis for binding of inhibitors in mature enzyme
Authors: Kesari Pooja , Deshmukh Anuradha , Pahelkar Nikhil , Suryawanshi Abhishek B. , Rathore Ishan , Mishra Vandana , Dupuis John H. , Xiao Huogen , Gustchina Alla , Abendroth Jan , Labaied Mehdi , Yada Rickey Y. , Wlodawer Alexander , Edwards Thomas E. , Lorimer Donald D. , Bhaumik Prasenjit
Published: January 2022

Plasmodium falciparum plasmepsin X (PfPMX), involved in the invasion and egress of this deadliest malarial parasite, is essential for its survival and hence considered as an important drug target. We report the first crystal structure of PfPMX zymogen containing a novel fold of its prosegment. A unique twisted loop from the prosegment and arginine 244 from the mature enzyme is involved in zymogen inactivation; such mechanism, not previously reported, might be common for apicomplexan proteases similar to PfPMX. The maturation of PfPMX zymogen occurs through cleavage of its prosegment at multiple sites. Our data provide thorough insights into the mode of binding of a substrate and a potent inhibitor 49c to PfPMX. We present molecular details of inactivation, maturation, and inhibition of PfPMX that should aid in the development of potent inhibitors against pepsin‐like aspartic proteases from apicomplexan parasites.
CircFAM64A enhances cellular processes in triple‐negative breast cancer by targeting the miR‐149‐5p/CDT1 axis
Authors: Maimaiti Yusufu , Zhang Ning , Zhang Yunke , Zhou Jing , Song Haiping , Wang Shuntao
Published: January 2022

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a breast cancer subtype without targeted treatment options. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the roles of circular RNAs in cancer. This study aimed to investigate the expression and function of circFAM64A in TNBC. The GSE101124 dataset from the GEO database was examined to identify the differentially expressed circular RNAs in TNBC. RT‐qPCR and western blot analyses were performed to measure gene expression. TNBC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and cell cycle were assessed using cell counting kit‐8, EdU, flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell invasion experiments. Bioinformatics analysis, RIP, RNA pulldown, and luciferase reporter assays were used to investigate the regulatory mechanism of circFAM64A. In this study, CircFAM64A expression was significantly upregulated in TNBC tissues and cells compared with normal tissues and cells. Overexpression of circFAM64A increased the proliferative, migratory, and invasive capacities of TNBC cells and promoted cell cycle progression. Mechanistically, circFAM64A acted as a molecular sponge for miR‐149‐5p, and miR‐149‐5p directly targeted the Cdc10‐dependent transcript 1 (CDT1) 3′UTR. Moreover, the high expression of CDT1 is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer. Rescue experiments demonstrated that circFAM64A sponged miR‐149‐5p to increase CDT1 expression, thereby promoting cellular processes in TNBC. Overall, CircFAM64A plays an oncogenic role in TNBC by interacting with miR‐149‐5p to increase CDT1 expression.
Transforming Practice for Educational Impact
Authors: Torres Lynette , Salisbury Fiona , Yazbeck Barbara , Karasmanis Sharon , Pinder Janice , Ondracek Caroline
Published: January 2022

It cannot be disputed that the difficulty facing academic libraries in connecting Information Literacy (IL) theory and practice in the curriculum prevails as a long-standing concern.
Risk and prognostic factors of replantation failure in patients with severe traumatic major limb mutilation
Authors: Gao Chang , Yang Ling , Ju Jihui , Gao Ye , Zhang Keran , Wu Mingming , Yang Lijuan , Lu Xiaoting , Hou Ruixing , Guo Qiang
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Traumatic mutilation of major limbs can result in limb loss, motor disability, or death. Patients who had replantation failure needed to undergo additional surgeries (even amputation) and had a longer length of hospital stay. Here, we determined the risk and prognostic factors of replantation failure in patients with traumatic major limb mutilation.

Methods

This retrospective study included adult inpatients with severed traumatic major limb mutilation who underwent replantation from Suzhou Ruixing Medical Group from October 18, 2016 to July 31, 2020. Demographic, and clinical characteristics including traumatic conditions, laboratory findings, mangled extremity severity scores (MESS), treatments, and outcomes of the patients were collected. Data were used to analyze predictors and risk factors for replantation failure.

Results

Among the 66 patients, 48 (72.7%) were males, the median age was 47.0 years old. Replantation failure occurred in 48 patients (72.7%). The area under the curve of the joint prediction of lactic acid on admission, 72-h cumulative fluid balance, and albumin level immediately postoperatively was 0.838 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.722–0.954; P < 0.001) with a sensitivity of 89.7% and a specificity of 69.2%. Lower limb trauma (odds ratio [OR] 8.65, 95% CI 1.64–45.56, P = 0.011), mangled extremity severity scores (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.25–4.01, P = 0.007), and first 72-h cumulative fluid balance > 4885.6 mL (OR 10.25, 95% CI 1.37–76.93, P = 0.024) were independent risk factors for replantation failure.

Conclusions

Lower limb trauma, mangled extremity severity scores, and cumulative water balance were associated with replantation failure, implying that fluid management is necessary for major limb salvage. More studies are needed to explore the predictive power of indicators related to tissue oxygenation and wound healing for replantation failure.
Role of renin–angiotensin system antagonists on long-term mortality post-percutaneous coronary intervention in reduced and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Prosser Hamish C. , Peck Kah Yong , Dinh Diem , Roberts Louise , Chandrasekhar Jaya , Brennan Angela , Duffy Stephen J. , Clark David , Ajani Andrew E. , Oqueli Ernesto , Sebastian Martin , Reid Christopher M. , Freeman Melanie , Sajeev Jithin K. , Teh Andrew W.
Published: January 2022

Aims

The use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) or angiotensin II-receptor blockers (ARBs) post-myocardial infarction (MI) is supported by evidence based on trials performed in the thrombolysis era. This was prior to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) being routine practice, and with little direct evidence for the use of these medications in patients with preserved left ventricular (LV) function. This study sought to determine whether there is an association between ACEi/ARB use after PCI for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and long-term all-cause mortality, with a particular focus on patients with preserved LV function.

Methods

This multicentre, observational study evaluated prospectively collected data of 21,388 patients (> 18 years old) that underwent PCI for NSTEMI and STEMI between 2005 and 2018, and were alive at 30 day follow-up.

Results

In total, 83.8% of patients were using ACEi/ARBs. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated ACEi/ARB use was associated with a significantly lower mortality in the entire cohort (15.0 vs. 22.7%; p < 0.001) with a mean follow-up of 5.58 years; and independently associated with 24% lower mortality by Cox proportional hazards modelling (HR 0.76, CI 0.67–0.85, p < 0.001). ACEi/ARB therapy was also associated with significantly lower mortality in patients with reduced or preserved LV function, with greater survival benefit with worse LV dysfunction.

Conclusion

ACEi/ARB therapy post-PCI is associated with significantly lower long-term mortality in patients with reduced and preserved LV function. These findings provide contemporary evidence for using these agents in the current era of routine primary PCI, including those with preserved EF.

Graphical abstract