bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preferences of NIA Alzheimer's Disease Research Center participants regarding remote assessment during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Nunnerley Michael , Mattek Nora , Kaye Jeffrey , Beattie Zachary
Published: November 2022

Introduction

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, in‐person research study visits were moved to an online format using a variety of communication platforms (e.g., Webex and Zoom). Increased technology use among older adults allowed for greater insight regarding the remote research study visit format.

Methods

A survey developed by the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (NACC) was distributed among 12 Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers (ADRCs). The COVID‐19 Technology Accessibility Survey aimed to understand preferences of older adults regarding their research study visits and how they accessed the internet.

Results

Among 12 ADRCs, 2070 responses were received (mean age: 72.8 years [standard deviation (SD) = 10.4], mean education: 16.6 years [SD = 2.6], race/ethnicity: 85% White/non‐Hispanic). Among respondents, those with some form of cognitive impairment were more likely to prefer remote research study visits (mild cognitive impairment [MCI] vs. normal [odds ratio (OR) = 1.40, P = 0.02] and dementia vs. normal [OR = 1.48, P < 0.01]). Respondents with cognitive impairment were also less likely to have interest in smartphone use during at‐home study visits (MCI vs. normal [OR = 0.71, P = 0.02] and dementia vs. normal [OR = 0.63, P < 0.001]). Results were similar regarding tablet use (MCI vs. normal [OR = 0.73, P = 0.04] and dementia vs. normal [OR = 0.72, P = 0.01]). Geographical location was analyzed in terms of the percentage of respondents in each region who preferred remote research study visits: West, 51%; Midwest, 34%; South, 41%; and Northeast, 57% (P < 0.0001).

Discussion

Results from the study suggest that there is a growing interest in the remote research study visit format. Further studies will allow for greater understanding and development of this research format.
Dose‐response association between transportation noise exposure and type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Liu Chengzhi , Li Wenxin , Chen Xia , Liu Mingliang , Zuo Lei , Chen Li , Chen Haiyan , Xu Wenbin , Hao Guang
Published: November 2022

Aims

To examine the longitudinal association between transportation noise exposure (road traffic, aircraft, and railway noise) and T2D in a meta‐analysis.

Materials and Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science published up to February 2022. The GRADE approach was used to evaluate the study quality, and the pooled effect estimate was calculated by the fixed‐effects model or the random‐effects model.

Results

We included 10 prospective studies with a total of 4,994,171 participants and 417,332 T2D cases in the meta‐analysis. According to the Navigation guide, 8 studies out of 10 were rated as having a probably high or high risk of bias. For road noise, the pooled relative risk (RR) per 10 dB higher Lden for developing T2D was 1.06 (95% CI:1.03, 1.09) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 90.1%, p < 0.001). Similar associations were also observed in aircraft and railway noise: the pooled RR were separately were: 1.01 (1.00, 1.01) and 1.02 (1.01, 1.03) separately. A ‘dose‐response’ analysis found a similar linear association between road noise exposure and the risk of T2D.

Conclusions

An overall 6% increase in the risk of T2D per 10 dB increase in road exposure was observed. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings, especially for aircraft and railway noise, and to identify the mechanisms involved.
Constructing Carbon Nanobubbles with Boron Doping as Advanced Anode for Realizing Unprecedently Ultrafast Potassium Ion Storage
Authors: Liang Huanyu , Sun Zining , Zhang Mingrui , Hu Wei , Shi Jing , Chen Jingwei , Tian Weiqian , Huang Minghua , Wu Jingyi , Wang Huanlei
Published: November 2022

Carbonaceous material with favorable K+ intercalation feature is considered as a compelling anode for potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs). However, the inferior rate performance and cycling stability impede their large‐scale application. Here, a facile template method is utilized to synthesize boron doping carbon nanobubbles (BCNBs). The incorporation of boron into the carbon structure introduces abundant defective sites and improves conductivity, facilitating both the intercalation‐controlled and capacitive‐controlled capacities. Moreover, theoretical calculation proves that boron doping can effectively improve the conductivity and facilitate electrochemical reversibility in PIBs. Correspondingly, the designed BCNBs anode delivers a high specific capacity (464 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1) with an extraordinary rate performance (85.7 mAh g−1 at 50 A g−1), and retains a considerable capacity retention (95.2% relative to the 100th charge after 2000 cycles). Besides, the strategy of pre‐forming stable artificial inorganic solid electrolyte interface effectively realizes high initial coulombic efficiency of 79.0% for BCNBs. Impressively, a dual‐carbon potassium‐ion capacitor coupling BCNBs anode displays a high energy density (177.8 Wh kg−1). This work not only shows great potential for utilizing heteroatom‐doping strategy to boost the potassium ion storage but also paves the way for designing high‐energy/power storage devices.
Tuning Structural and Electronic Configuration of FeN4 via External S for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Li Shidong , Xia Lixue , Li Jiantao , Chen Zhuo , Zhang Wei , Zhu Jiexin , Yu Ruohan , Liu Fang , Lee Sungsik , Zhao Yan , Zhou Liang , Mai Liqiang
Published: November 2022

The Fe–N–C material represents an attractive oxygen reduction reaction electrocatalyst, and the FeN4 moiety has been identified as a very competitive catalytic active site. Fine tuning of the coordination structure of FeN4 has an essential impact on the catalytic performance. Herein, we construct a sulfur‐modified Fe–N–C catalyst with controllable local coordination environment, where the Fe is coordinated with four in‐plane N and an axial external S. The external S atom affects not only the electron distribution but also the spin state of Fe in the FeN4 active site. The appearance of higher valence states and spin states for Fe demonstrates the increase in unpaired electrons. With the above characteristics, the adsorption and desorption of the reactants at FeN4 active sites are optimized, thus promoting the oxygen reduction reaction activity. This work explores the key point in electronic configuration and coordination environment tuning of FeN4 through S doping and provides new insight into the construction of M–N–C‐based oxygen reduction reaction catalysts.
Infant heart transplantation with extremely oversized donor heart: is the donor–recipient size matching too conservative?
Authors: Wen Shuyu , Zhou Ying , Qiao Weihua , Wang Yixuan , Zhang Jing , Dong Nianguo
Published: November 2022

Heart transplantation (HTx) remains the gold standard treatment for end‐stage heart failure in children but is restricted due to the limitation of donors. The donor–recipient weight ratio (DRWR) of 0.8–2.5 was the main selection criterion, and reports were particularly scarce in cases of DRWR > 3.0. We present an infant HTx case with DRWR of 6.5. The recipient was a 66‐day‐old female infant, weighing 3 kg, diagnosed with complex congenital heart disease and refractory severe heart failure, whereas the donor was a 4‐year‐old girl weighing 19.5 kg. The phased delayed sternal closure was performed and accomplished on the 23rd day after operation without wound infection. After treating complications with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, peritoneal dialysis, and mechanical ventilation, the patient was successfully discharged. After 1 year of follow‐up, the patient was still in optimal condition. Extending DRWR range may help enlarge the donor pool and shorten recipients' waiting time.
Effects of haemodynamically atrio‐ventricular optimized His bundle pacing on heart failure symptoms and exercise capacity: the His Optimized Pacing Evaluated for Heart Failure (HOPE‐HF) randomized, double‐blind, cross‐over trial
Authors: Whinnett Zachary I. , Shun‐Shin Matthew J. , Tanner Mark , Foley Paul , Chandrasekaran Badri , Moore Philip , Adhya Shaumik , Qureshi Norman , Muthumala Amal , Lane Rebecca , Rinaldi Aldo , Agarwal Sharad , Leyva Francisco , Behar Jonathan , Bassi Sukh , Ng Andre , Scott Paul , Prasad Rachana , Swinburn Jon , Tomson Joseph , Sethi Amarjit , Shah Jaymin , Lim Phang Boon , Kyriacou Andreas , Thomas Dewi , Chuen Jenny , Kamdar Ravi , Kanagaratnam Prapa , Mariveles Myril , Burden Leah , March Katherine , Howard James P. , Arnold Ahran , Vijayaraman Pugazhendhi , Stegemann Berthold , Johnson Nicholas , Falaschetti Emanuela , Francis Darrel P. , Cleland John G.F. , Keene Daniel
Published: November 2022

Aims

Excessive prolongation of PR interval impairs coupling of atrio‐ventricular (AV) contraction, which reduces left ventricular pre‐load and stroke volume, and worsens symptoms. His bundle pacing allows AV delay shortening while maintaining normal ventricular activation. HOPE‐HF evaluated whether AV optimized His pacing is preferable to no‐pacing, in a double‐blind cross‐over fashion, in patients with heart failure, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤40%, PR interval ≥200 ms and either QRS ≤140 ms or right bundle branch block.

Methods and results

Patients had atrial and His bundle leads implanted (and an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator lead if clinically indicated) and were randomized to 6 months of pacing and 6 months of no‐pacing utilizing a cross‐over design. The primary outcome was peak oxygen uptake during symptom‐limited exercise. Quality of life, LVEF and patients' holistic symptomatic preference between arms were secondary outcomes. Overall, 167 patients were randomized: 90% men, 69 ± 10 years, QRS duration 124 ± 26 ms, PR interval 249 ± 59 ms, LVEF 33 ± 9%. Neither peak oxygen uptake (+0.25 ml/kg/min, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.23 to +0.73, p = 0.3) nor LVEF (+0.5%, 95% CI −0.7 to 1.6, p = 0.4) changed with pacing but Minnesota Living with Heart Failure quality of life improved significantly (−3.7, 95% CI −7.1 to −0.3, p = 0.03). Seventy‐six percent of patients preferred His bundle pacing‐on and 24% pacing‐off (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

His bundle pacing did not increase peak oxygen uptake but, under double‐blind conditions, significantly improved quality of life and was symptomatically preferred by the clear majority of patients. Ventricular pacing delivered via the His bundle did not adversely impact ventricular function during the 6 months.
Incidence and clinical correlates of de‐novo aortic regurgitation with a fully magnetically levitated left ventricular assist device: a MOMENTUM 3 trial portfolio analysis
Authors: Uriel Nir , Milano Carmelo , Agarwal Richa , Lee Sangjin , Cleveland Joseph , Goldstein Daniel , Wang AiJia , Crandall Daniel , Mehra Mandeep R.
Published: November 2022

Aims

We assessed the incidence, predictors and clinical correlates of de‐novo aortic regurgitation (AR), which physiologically reduces left ventricular assist device (LVAD) effectiveness due to recirculation syndrome, in the MOMENTUM 3 trial portfolio of the fully magnetically levitated HeartMate 3 (HM3) pump using the randomized pivotal trial (PT) and post‐trial continued access protocol (CAP).

Methods and results

De‐novo aortic regurgitation incidence at 2 years was analysed in the randomized PT and validated in the first 1000 implanted patients of the CAP. Patients with concomitant/prior aortic valve surgery or without baseline or post‐implant echocardiograms were excluded from this analysis. AR severity was assessed qualitatively by site‐adjudicated echocardiograms (significant AR was defined as moderate or severe grade on echocardiogram). Of 1028 patients enrolled in the PT, 918 were eligible for inclusion in this analysis (HM3, n = 465; HMII, n = 453). At 2 years of LVAD support, freedom from significant AR was greater in the HM3 (92%) than HMII (82%) (hazard ratio 0.45, 95% confidence interval 0.27–0.75, p < 0.01). Of 907 HM3 patients analysed from the first 1000 implanted CAP patients, the rate of freedom from significant AR was 90%, consistent with the PT (p = 0.3). In the combined HM3 group (n = 1372), multivariable Cox modelling identified increasing age and female sex as significant predictors. Survival free of urgent transplant or AR corrective procedure was similar between HM3 patients with and without significant de‐novo AR.

Conclusions

The development of moderate or severe grade de‐novo AR is reduced with the fully magnetically levitated HM3 LVAD compared to the axial‐flow HMII pump. The occurrence of significant de‐novo AR with the HM3 pump is not associated with a worse outcome at 2 years of follow‐up.
Solvent‐Free Synthesis of Quaternary Oxazolidine‐2‐thione β3‐Amino Ester Analogs
Authors: Soddu Francesco , Devoto Federico , Marras Valentina , Caboni Pierluigi , Secci Francesco , Aitken David J. , Frongia Angelo
Published: November 2022

A solvent‐free organocatalyzed intermolecular cyclization reaction starting from β‐substituted γ‐hydroxy‐α,β‐unsaturated esters and aryl isothiocyanates proceeds via an aza‐Michael addition to provide previously unknown quaternary oxazolidine‐2‐thione β3‐amino ester analogs. A panel of diversely‐substituted esters was investigated, including β,γ‐disubstituted examples which provided the target molecules with very high cis diastereoselectivity.
Low‐cost, high‐throughput and rapid‐prototyped 3D‐integrated dielectrophoretic channels for continuous cell enrichment and separation
Authors: Faraghat Shabnam A. , Fatoyinbo Henry O. , Hoettges Kai F. , Hughes Michael Pycraft
Published: November 2022

Microfluidic devices for dielectrophoretic cell separation are typically designed and constructed using microfabrication methods in a clean room, requiring time and expense. In this paper, we describe a novel alternative approach to microfluidic device manufacture, using chips cut from conductor–insulator laminates using a cutter plotter. This allows the manufacture of microchannel devices with micron‐scale electrodes along every wall. Fabrication uses a conventional desktop cutter plotter, and requires no chemicals, masks or clean‐room access; functional fluidic devices can be designed and constructed within a couple of hours at negligible cost. As an example, we demonstrate the construction of a continuous dielectrophoretic cell separator capable of enriching yeast cells to 80% purity at 10 000 cells/s.
Devices: A location for feminist analytics and praxis
Authors: Ballestero Andrea , Oyarzun Yesmar
Published: November 2022

This article offers the device as a methodological tool and concrete space for feminist praxis that can challenge the order of a world that is patriarchal, racist, and organized around capital extraction. Material or immaterial in form, a device is a tool through which different actors ground, produce, and concretize technological, legal, scientific, and political work. Many objects can become devices when pragmatically activated toward a particular effect; the challenge is to grasp them as such in the field and assess them for their political power and potential to bring forth possible worlds. Through examples from anthropology and adjacent literatures, we show how people accomplish three kinds of political work through their devices. Devices are sometimes used to solidify a domain of social life, such as the economy, the population, or race. Devices can constellate and produce a patterned effect, such as anti‐Blackness. Moreover, devices can be used to clear space for new and maybe unexpected possibilities. We end by articulating how the device, by way of its artificiality, offers potential pathways for furthering ethnographic and analytic practices and performing feminist political work.
Comparative study on comprehensive quality of Xinhui chenpi by two main plant propagation techniques
Authors: Tan E‐yu , Li Fang , Lin Xinheng , Ma Shaofeng , Zhang Guanghua , Zhou Hua , Ouyang Yue , Tang Ziyu , Cheng Qiqing
Published: November 2022

Xinhui chenpi (XHCP), the sun‐dried peel of the mandarin orange, Citrus reticulata “Chachi,” is the most famous crude drug, as well as a traditional seasoning in Chinese cooking. The main cultivation methods of XHCP are cutting and grafting, but it is generally considered that the quality of XHCP after cutting is superior to that obtained from plants propagated by graftings, which had a negative impact on the marketing of the finished product. In our study, a total of 25 samples of XHCP obtained from plants cultivated by either traditional methods (i.e., from cuttings) or by grafting were collected to compare the contents of four types of metabolites (essential oils, flavonoids, synephrine, and total polysaccharides) as well as antioxidant activity. The results revealed that the quality of XHCP did not decline after cutting, and marked individual differences between XHCP samples, even when prepared from plants grown in the same way. In general, grafting had no significant effect on the most essential oils components, total polysaccharides, synephrine, total flavonoids, total polymethoxylated flavones, hesperidin, nobiletin, tangeretin content, and antioxidant activity. Nevertheless, five volatile compounds can be used as potential chemical markers (p < 0.05) to distinguish between cutting XHCP and grafted XHCP, while four volatile compounds showed high content in grafted XHCP. Our study is expected to provide a theoretical basis for XHCP breeding and cultivation, and thereby further standardize the market of XHCP.
Campylobacterspp. isolated from poultry in Iran: Antibiotic resistance profiles, virulence genes, and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Mousavinafchi Seyedeh Bita , Rahimi Ebrahim , Shakerian Amir
Published: November 2022

Campylobacterspp. genera is one of the most common causes of microbial enteritis worldwide. The objective of this work was to investigate the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns, virulence genes, and genetic variation of thermophilicCampylobacterspecies collected from chicken meat samples in Iran. A total of 255 meat specimens were taken and transferred to the laboratory. Culture methods were utilized to identify theCampylobactergenus, and PCR and sequencing were performed to confirm the organisms. Antimicrobial susceptibility evaluation was performed using broth microdilution for six antimicrobials [ciprofloxacin (CIP), nalidixic acid (NAL), sitafloxacin (SIT), erythromycin (ERY), tetracycline (TET), and gentamicin (GEN)]. By using PCR, AMR and virulence genes were detected. The detection rate ofCampylobacterspp. was 64 (25.09%) out of 255 meat samples, withC. jejuniandC. coliaccounting for 41 (64.06%) and 14 (21.87%), respectively. OtherCampylobacterisolates accounted for 14.06% of the total (nine samples). The antibiotic susceptibility of allCampylobacterisolates was tested using six antibiotics, and all (100%) were resistant to CIP and NAL. However, TET resistance was observed in 93.9% and 83.3% ofC. jejuniandC. coliisolates, respectively. Four (8.2%)C. jejuniisolates were multidrug‐resistant (MDR), while none of theC. coliisolates were MDR. Two of the four MDR isolates were resistant to CIP, NAL, TET, and ERY, whereas the other two isolates were resistant to CIP, NAL, TET, and GEN. The values of the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) were as follows: CIP, 64–256 μg/ml; NAL, 128–512 μg/ml; TET, 2–1024 μg/ml; SIT, 0.25–1 μg/ml; ERY, 1–32 μg/ml; and GEN, 1–256 μg/ml.recR,dnaJ,cdtC,cdtB,cdtA,flaA,ciaB,cadF, andpidAwere discovered in more than 50% ofC. jejuniisolates, althoughwlaN,virbll,cgtB, andceuEwere found in <50%.flaA,cadF,pidA, andciaBwere discovered in more than 50% of theC. colisamples, whereasrecR,cdtC,cdtB,cdtA, andcgtBwere found in less than half. ForC. coli, the percentages forwlaN,dnaJ,virbll, andceuEwere all zero. The results of this study showCampylobacterisolates obtained from poultry have higher resistance to quinolones and TET, pathogenicity potential, and varied genotypes.
Subduction of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate beneath the Jiamusi Block: Constraints from the Late Triassic–Late Jurassic sedimentary records in the eastern Jiamusi Block
Authors: Liang Yunyi , Xu Zhongjie , Zhou Jianbo , Cheng Rihui , Wan Duo
Published: November 2022

The Jiamusi Block is a crucial geological unit joining multiple tectonic regimes, including the Late Palaeozoic Palaeo‐Asian Ocean and the superposition of the Early Mesozoic Palaeo‐Pacific tectonic domain. However, the duration of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate subduction beneath the Jiamusi Block has long been controversial. In this paper, we focus on clastic rocks from the Nanshuangyashan and Yunshan formations on the east margin of the Jiamusi Block and use the modal analysis of sandstones and detrital zircon U–Pb dating to trace the subduction history of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate. Our analysis results suggest that the two groups of samples are characterized by a high content of monocrystalline quartz and a low content of lithic and feldspar, indicating that the sedimentary provenances were stable continental blocks and magmatic arcs. The detrital zircon ages of the Nanshuangyashan Formation have a major peak at ca. 245 Ma and two secondary peaks at ca. 470 and 228 Ma, respectively. The Yunshan Formation has a major peak at ca. 494 Ma and a secondary peak at ca. 265 Ma. The provenances of the Nanshuangyashan Formation were attributed to the Jiamusi Block, Khanka Block, and a Late Triassic magmatic arc. Similarly, the provenances of the Yunshan Formation were attributed to the Jiamusi and Khanka blocks. Detrital zircon analysis results show that the eastern margin of the Jiamusi Block was in the same back‐arc basin settings in the Late Triassic and the Late Jurassic. Thus, we propose that the eastern margin of the Jiamusi Block had been affected by the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate subduction in the Late Triassic and had continued to the Late Jurassic.
Comprehensive shape analysis of the cortex in Huntington's disease
Authors: Stoebner Zachary A. , Hett Kilian , Lyu Ilwoo , Johnson Hans , Paulsen Jane S. , Long Jeffrey D. , Oguz Ipek
Published: November 2022

The striatum has traditionally been the focus of Huntington's disease research due to the primary insult to this region and its central role in motor symptoms. Beyond the striatum, evidence of cortical alterations caused by Huntington's disease has surfaced. However, findings are not coherent between studies which have used cortical thickness for Huntington's disease since it is the well‐established cortical metric of interest in other diseases. In this study, we propose a more comprehensive approach to cortical morphology in Huntington's disease using cortical thickness, sulcal depth, and local gyrification index. Our results show consistency with prior findings in cortical thickness, including its limitations. Our comparison between cortical thickness and local gyrification index underscores the complementary nature of these two measures—cortical thickness detects changes in the sensorimotor and posterior areas while local gyrification index identifies insular differences. Since local gyrification index and cortical thickness measures detect changes in different regions, the two used in tandem could provide a clinically relevant measure of disease progression. Our findings suggest that differences in insular regions may correspond to earlier neurodegeneration and may provide a complementary cortical measure for detection of subtle early cortical changes due to Huntington's disease.
Unintended health benefits of adopting preventive behaviors during a virus outbreak
Authors: Hong Sok Chul , Lee Eunju , Oh Seojung
Published: November 2022

This study investigates whether changes in risk perception play a critical role in improving of preventive behaviors and health outcomes by examining the 2009 H1N1 influenza (or swine flu) pandemic in Korea. We employ a difference‐in‐differences estimation strategy by comparing the differential effects of the H1N1 outbreak on the confirmed cases of diseases which can be prevented by preventive behaviors (e.g., intestinal infections) and the cases of diseases which cannot (e.g., injuries). Using unique administrative data from South Korea’s National Health Insurance Service (NHIS), we find that the exogenous increase in health risk reduced the incidence of intestinal infections compared to the injuries during the H1N1 influenza outbreak. The reduction was the most substantial among children under five years of age, with a 25.4% decline in cases of intestinal infections relative to injuries. Our findings are robust across various alternative specifications. We provide suggestive evidence that active adoption of preventive behaviors is one of the channels underlying the unexpected decrease in diarrhea cases. The effects, however, faded away shortly after the end of the pandemic and did not last in the long run.
Discovery of the hidden coding information in cancers: Mechanisms and biological functions
Authors: Zhou Xiaoling , Wu Xiang , Lai Kairan , Zhou Ruiyao , Chen Zhanghui , Yang Zhigang , Gao Xiangwei
Published: November 2022

Most proteins are derived from the translation of coding sequence (CDS) in messenger RNAs (mRNAs). However, accumulating evidence has revealed an unexpected abundance of translation in putative non‐coding genomes, especially 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR) of mRNAs or non‐coding RNA species (ncRNA) such as long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). Notably, many of these UTR‐ or ncRNA‐encoded micropeptides/proteins play important roles in human malignancies. In this review, we describe recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the translation of non‐coding regions or ncRNAs and the methods to discover the hidden coding information. Furthermore, we summarize the biological functions of UTR‐ or ncRNA‐encoded micropeptides/proteins in cancers and discuss their potential as clinical biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and as therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
Crosstalk between tumor acidosis, p53 and extracellular matrix regulates pancreatic cancer aggressiveness
Authors: Czaplinska Dominika , Ialchina Renata , Andersen Henriette Berg , Yao Jiayi , Stigliani Arnaud , Dannesboe Johs , Flinck Mette , Chen Xiaoming , Mitrega Jakub , Gnosa Sebastian Peter , Dmytriyeva Oksana , Alves Frauke , Napp Joanna , Sandelin Albin , Pedersen Stine Falsig
Published: November 2022

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely aggressive malignancy with minimal treatment options and a global rise in prevalence. PDAC is characterized by frequent driver mutations including KRAS and TP53 (p53), and a dense, acidic tumor microenvironment (TME). The relation between genotype and TME in PDAC development is unknown. Strikingly, when wild type (WT) Panc02 PDAC cells were adapted to growth in an acidic TME and returned to normal pH to mimic invasive cells escaping acidic regions, they displayed a strong increase of aggressive traits such as increased growth in 3‐dimensional (3D) culture, adhesion‐independent colony formation and invasive outgrowth. This pattern of acidosis‐induced aggressiveness was observed in 3D spheroid culture as well as upon organotypic growth in matrigel, collagen‐I and combination thereof, mimicking early and later stages of PDAC development. Acid‐adaptation‐induced gain of cancerous traits was further increased by p53 knockout (KO), but only in specific extracellular matrix (ECM) compositions. Akt‐ and Transforming growth factor‐β (TGFβ) signaling, as well as expression of the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE1, were increased by acid adaptation. Whereas Akt inhibition decreased spheroid growth regardless of treatment and genotype, stimulation with TGFβI increased growth of WT control spheroids, and inhibition of TGFβ signaling tended to limit growth under acidic conditions only. Our results indicate that a complex crosstalk between tumor acidosis, ECM composition and genotype contributes to PDAC development. The findings may guide future strategies for acidosis‐targeted therapies.
On the performance of dual IRS‐Aided communication system under Non‐Ideal transceiver over Nakagami‐m fading channels
Authors: Shaikh Mohd Hamza Naim , Bohara Vivek Ashok , Srivastava Anand
Published: November 2022

Intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) is a promising and emerging technology for futuristic networks to realize a software‐controlled wireless environment. In this work, we analyzed a dual IRS‐aided communication system's performance under the non‐ideal transceiver scenario. Specifically, we evaluate the considered scenario's spectral efficiency (SE) and the outage probability (OP). The analytical derivation of the SE and OP is corroborated through the simulations. The result demonstrates that dual IRS outperforms the single IRS scenario for the ideal transceiver case by mitigating the multiplicative pathloss effect by increasing the number of REs. However, for the non‐ideal transceiver case, the distortion noise limits the performance. Further, we have also compared the proposed dual IRS‐aided system with the baseline decode‐and‐forward (DF) relay‐based system.
Exploring adolescent social media and internet gaming addiction: The role of emotion regulation
Authors: Giordano Amanda L. , Schmit Michael K. , McCall John
Published: November 2022

Behavioral addictions such as social media addiction and internet gaming disorder are prevalent among adolescent populations. Although studies have investigated predictors of these addictive behaviors with international samples of adolescents, less is known about American adolescents. In this study, we investigated the predictive nature of emotion regulation after controlling for age, gender, and race with regard to social media addiction and internet gaming disorder severity. Results indicate that gender and emotion regulation significantly predicted both forms of behavioral addictions with small to moderate effects. Specifically, female gender and lower emotion regulation significantly predicted social media addiction and male gender and lower emotion regulation significantly predicted internet gaming disorder severity. Implications for mental health professionals are discussed.
A dual‐action nitric oxide‐releasing slippery surface for extracorporeal organ support: Dynamic in vitro hemocompatibility evaluation
Authors: Roberts Teryn R. , Harea George T. , Zang Yanyi , Devine Ryan P. , Maffe Patrick , Handa Hitesh , Batchinsky Andriy I.
Published: November 2022

Numerous biomaterials have been developed for application in blood‐contacting medical devices to prevent thrombosis; however, few materials have been applied to full‐scale devices and evaluated for hemocompatibility under clinical blood flow conditions. We applied a dual‐action slippery liquid‐infused (LI) nitric oxide (NO)‐releasing material modification (LINO) to full‐scale blood circulation tubing for extracorporeal lung support and evaluated the tubing ex vivo using swine whole blood circulated for 6 h at a clinically relevant flow. LINO tubing was compared to unmodified tubing (CTRL) and isolated LI and NO‐releasing modifications (n = 9/group). The primary objective was to evaluate safety and blood compatibility of this approach, prior to progression to in vivo testing of efficacy in animal models. The secondary objective was to evaluate coagulation outcomes relevant to hemocompatibility. No untoward effects of the coating, such as elevated methemoglobin fraction, were observed. Additionally, LINO delayed platelet loss until 6 h versus the reduction in platelet count in CTRL at 3 h. At 6 h, LINO significantly reduced the concentration of platelets in an activated P‐selectin expressing state versus CTRL (32 ± 1% decrease, p = .02). Blood clot deposition was significantly reduced on LINO blood pumps (p = .007) and numerically reduced on tubing versus CTRL. Following blood exposure, LINO tubing continued to produce a measurable NO‐flux (0.20 ± 0.06 × 10−10 mol cm−2 min−1). LINO is a potential solution to reduce circuit‐related bleeding and clotting during extracorporeal organ support, pending future extended testing in vivo using full‐scale extracorporeal lung support devices.
Therapeutic plasma‐exchange improves short‐term, but not long‐term, outcomes in patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Swaroop Shekhar , Arora Umang , Biswas Sagnik , Vaishnav Manas , Pathak Piyush , Agarwal Ankit , Golla Rithvik , Thakur Bhaskar , Coshic Poonam , Andriyas Vijay , Gupta Kamini , Elhence Anshuman , Nayak Baibaswat , Kumar Ramesh , Shalimar
Published: November 2022

Background

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is associated with a high short‐term mortality rate in the absence of liver transplantation. The role of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in improving the outcomes of ACLF and acute decompensation (AD) is unclear. In this retrospective analysis, we aimed to determine the impact of TPE on mortality in patients with ACLF.

Methods

ACLF patients receiving TPE with standard medical treatment (SMT) were propensity score matched (PSM) with those receiving SMT alone (1:1) for sex, grades of ACLF, CLIF C ACLF scores, and the presence of hepatic encephalopathy. The primary outcomes assessed were mortality at 30 and 90 days. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan Meier survival curves.

Results

A total of 1151 patients (ACLF n = 864 [75%], AD [without organ failure] n = 287 [25%]) were included. Of the patients with ACLF (n = 864), grade 1, 2, and 3 ACLF was present in 167 (19.3%), 325 (37.6%), and 372 (43.0%) patients, respectively. Thirty‐nine patients received TPE and SMT, and 1112 patients received only SMT. On PSM analysis, there were 38 patients in each group (SMT plus TPE vs SMT alone). In the matched cohort, the 30‐days mortality was lower in the TPE arm compared to SMT (21% vs 50%, P = .008), however, the 90‐day mortality was not significantly different between the two groups (36.8% vs 52.6%, P = .166); HR, 0.82 (0.44‐1.52), P = .549.

Conclusion

TPE improves short‐term survival in patients with ACLF, but has no significant impact on long‐term outcomes. Randomized control trials are needed to obtain a robust conclusion in this regard.
Gender differences in Alzheimer's may be associated with TLR4‐LYN expression in damage associated microglia and neuronal phagocytosis
Authors: Islam Rezwanul , Rajan Robin , Choudhary Hadi , Vrionis Frank , Hanafy Khalid A.
Published: November 2022

The role of Aβ plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis have recently come into question due to failure of many pharmaceutical agents targeting these deposits and detection of these misfolded proteins in normal human brains. Therefore, we investigated correlations between microglial activation and toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) and Lck/Yes novel tyrosine (LYN) kinase signaling in an AD mouse model.

In this study, we used 5–6‐month‐old 5XFAD and wild type (WT) male and female mice. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and flow cytometry (FC) were performed on their brains. Cognitive performance was assessed with the Barnes‐Maze.

IHC showed more Ab aggregation in microglia of female 5XFAD mice compared to their male counterparts. Increased co‐localization of microglial TLR4 and LYN was also observed in AD more than WT and females more than males. IHC also suggests microglial phagocytosis of neurons in AD mice, which is supported by FC data. Our FC data also support the involvement of disease associated microglia (DAMs) in this process based on cytokine secretion. Cognitive assessment by the Barnes maze showed 5XFAD females performed worse than males.

In this study, we investigated the relationship between microglial TLR4 and LYN kinase in 5XFAD male and females. Our data reveals a correlation between microglial TLR4 and LYN co‐localization and AD pathogenesis, more in females than males. Targeting microglial TLR4 and Lyn in DAMs may offer new therapeutic opportunities in the treatment of AD.
Glioblastoma‐derived extracellular vesicle subpopulations following 5‐aminolevulinic acid treatment bear diagnostic implications
Authors: Hsia Tiffaney , Yekula Anudeep , Batool S. Maheen , Rosenfeld Yulia B. , You Dong Gil , Weissleder Ralph , Lee Hakho , Carter Bob S. , Balaj Leonora
Published: November 2022

Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive alternative to surgical biopsy, encompassing different analytes including extracellular vesicles (EVs), circulating tumour cells (CTCs), circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), proteins, and metabolites. EVs are released by virtually all cells, but at a higher rate by faster cycling, malignant cells. They encapsulate cargo native to the originating cell and can thus provide a window into the tumour landscape. EVs are often analysed in bulk which hinders the analysis of rare, tumour‐specific EV subpopulations from the large host EV background. Here, we fractionated EV subpopulations in vitro and in vivo and characterized their phenotype and generic cargo. We used 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) to induce release of endogenously fluorescent tumour‐specific EVs (EVPpIX). Analysis of five different subpopulations (EVPpIX, EVCD63, EVCD9, EVEGFR, EVCFDA) from glioblastoma (GBM) cell lines revealed unique transcriptome profiles, with the EVPpIX transcriptome demonstrating closer alignment to tumorigenic processes over the other subpopulations. Similarly, isolation of tumour‐specific EVs from GBM patient plasma showed enrichment in GBM‐associated genes, when compared to bulk EVs from plasma. We propose that fractionation of EV populations facilitates detection and isolation of tumour‐specific EVs for disease monitoring.
Hazardous alcohol use and HIV indicators in six African countries: results from the Population‐based HIV Impact Assessments, 2015–2017
Authors: Chang Gregory C. , West Christine A. , Kim Evelyn , Low Andrea J. , Lancaster Kathryn E. , Behel Stephanie S. , Hong Steven Y. , Miller Leigh Ann , Silver Rachel , Mgomella George S. , Imaa Jennifer , Maokola Werner M. , Carpino Thomas , Hrusa Gili , Bray Rachel M. , Mwila Annie , Musuka Godfrey , O'Connell Christopher , McCracken Stephen , Voetsch Andrew C.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Hazardous alcohol use (HAU), defined as a pattern of alcohol consumption that increases the risk of harmful consequences for the user or others, is associated with an elevated risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and poor health outcomes. We describe the association between people living with HIV (PLHIV) who report HAU and key HIV indicators. Gaps in current literature in estimating HAU on HIV outcomes at the regional level of Eastern and Southern Africa still exist and our analysis aims to address this issue.

Methods

We used weighted pooled data (2015–2017) from the nationally representative Population‐based HIV Impact Assessments among adults who provided written consent aged 18–59 years from Eswatini, Malawi, Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. We estimated differences in the prevalence of HIV infection and The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) 90‐90‐90 indicators between PLHIV by HAU status using log‐binomial regression, stratified by sex. HAU was determined using the Alcohol Use Identification Test—Consumption.

Results

Among the 9755 women and 4444 men who tested HIV positive, 6.6% of women and 21.8% of men engaged in HAU. Women who reported HAU were more likely to be HIV positive (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.18–1.46) compared to those who did not report HAU. For the UNAIDS 90‐90‐90 targets, women who engaged in HAU were more likely to be unaware of their HIV‐positive status (aPR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.01–1.47) and not on antiretroviral therapy (ART) (aPR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.26–2.37). Men who engaged in HAU were more likely to be unaware of their HIV‐positive status (aPR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.39–1.76) and not on ART (aPR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.30–2.29). No difference in viral load suppression, defined as <1000 copies/ml of HIV RNA, was seen by sex.

Conclusions

PLHIV who engage in HAU were more likely to have suboptimal outcomes along the HIV care continuum when compared to those who did not engage in HAU. Targeted interventions, such as alcohol screening for HAU in HIV testing and treatment settings and HIV prevention efforts in alcohol‐based venues, may help countries reach HIV epidemic control by 2030.
Functional and Morphological Brain Alterations in Dysthyroid Optic Neuropathy: A Combined Resting‐State fMRI and Voxel‐Based Morphometry Study
Authors: Wu Hongyu , Luo Ban , Wang Qiuxia , Zhao Yali , Yuan Gang , Liu Ping , Zhai Linhan , Lv Wenzhi , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2022

Background

Increasing evidence has indicated that the entire visual pathway from retina to visual cortex may be involved in dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) pathological mechanisms.

Purpose

To explore the functional and morphological brain characteristics in DON and their relationship with ophthalmologic performance.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 30 DON patients, 40 thyroid‐associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) without DON patients and 21 healthy‐controls (HCs).

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3.0 T, 3D T1‐weighted spoiled gradient‐recalled echo and gradient‐recalled echo‐planar imaging.

Assessment

Functional and structural alterations in brain regions were evaluated with fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations, degree centrality (DC), and gray matter volume (GMV). Clinical activity score (CAS) is assessed across patients.

Statistical Test

One‐way analysis of variance with post hoc two sample t‐tests (GRF‐corrected, voxel level: P < 0.005, cluster level: P < 0.05) and correlation analysis (significance level: P < 0.05).

Results

Compared to HCs, DON patients had significantly decreased DC values in the bilateral BA17 and BA18 regions. Compared to the TAO group, DON patients had decreased GMV in the left anterior cingulate cortex, left middle frontal gyrus, left lingual gyrus, left parietal gyrus, right Rolandic operculum, left supplementary motor area, and right middle temporal gyrus. In addition, GMV in the right Rolandic operculum was significantly positively correlated with CAS (correlation coefficient: r = 0.448).

Data Conclusion

This study showed significant morphological and functional alterations in visual cortex and morphological alterations in partial default mode network regions of DON patients, which may provide insights into the mechanism of vision loss and may facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of DON.

Evidence Level

3.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3.
Azoxystrobin alters the dynamics of short‐term phosphorus uptake of mycorrhizal potato plants associated to Rhizophagus irregularis
Authors: Rodriguez‐Morelos Victor Hugo , Declerck Stéphane , Calonne‐Salmon Maryline
Published: November 2022

Background

Azoxystrobin is widely used in crops against several fungal diseases, but may have potential negative effects on soil microorganisms beneficial to plants such as arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. To date, the impact of azoxystrobin has been studied on the growth and healing capacity of AM fungi, but not on the inorganic phosphorus (Pi) uptake dynamics.

Aims

The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of azoxystrobin on the dynamics of Pi uptake by potato plants associated or not to Rhizophagus irregularis. Additionally, fungal root colonization, plant growth, and P accumulation were assessed.

Methods

A semi‐hydroponic cultivation system was used using mycorrhizal (M) and nonmycorrhizal (NM) plants growing in presence/absence of azoxystrobin. The percentage of Pi depletion in the nutrient solution was determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy after 30 and 60 days of circulation.

Results

Whatever the presence/absence of the AM fungus, azoxystrobin decreased Pi uptake by plants after 30 days of growth. Conversely, after 60 days in absence of azoxystrobin, a larger Pi uptake was measured in the M plants, while the reverse was noticed in presence of azoxystrobin.

Conclusions

The M plants were more affected by azoxystrobin than those growing in absence of the fungicide, suggesting a direct effect of azoxystrobin on the AM fungus and an indirect effect on the plant–fungus associates via a potential imbalance in the transfer of nutrients. Although it is difficult to extrapolate our results to field, fungicide toxicity on crops inoculated with selected AM fungi deserves to be explored.
Older people, medication safety, and the role of the community pharmacist: a longitudinal ethnographic study
Authors: Collier Aileen , Balmer Deborah , Dai Linda , Hikaka Joanna , Bloomfield Katherine , Boyd Michal
Published: November 2022

Background

Older people with frailty and multimorbidity are at high risk of problematic polypharmacy. Community pharmacists have a key role in medication safety for older people.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the perspectives of older people with frailty, multimorbidity, and polypharmacy, and their family caregivers or whānau on the role of community pharmacists, including in situ pharmacist care practices.

Method

This study was part of a larger video reflexive ethnography (VRE) study to explore medication safety and wellbeing for older people with frailty across care transitions including hospital, home, aged residential care, primary care, and outpatient care. This paper reports data from the interview, participant observation, and filming phases of the study.

Results

Community pharmacists play a significant role in the medication safety of older people with frailty and polypharmacy. Analysis resulted in three main themes: (1) the older person–determined role of the pharmacist, (2) the ‘taken for granted’ safety work of the pharmacist, and (3) collective agency and medication safety.

Conclusion

In circumstances where older people and their family caregivers or whānau had a trusted relationship with a community pharmacist, the pharmacist played a key role as mediator of medication safety and was central to older people's care. This key role as a member of the multidisciplinary team in the care of older people with frailty and multimorbidity should be better recognised and legitimised by clinicians and policy makers and resourced accordingly.
Precise measurement of 1,4‐dioxane concentration in cleaning products: A review of the current state‐of‐the‐art
Authors: Hayes Douglas G. , Williams Michael , Pechacek Nathan , Hebert Britney , Stanton Kathleen
Published: November 2022

1,4‐Dioxane, a co‐product that forms during the preparation of ethoxylated surfactants, particularly sulfated and phosphorylated ethoxylates, is classified as a potential human carcinogen whose occurrence in surface water and groundwater is of particular concern. As a result, the US state of New York has passed laws that will limit the concentration of 1,4‐dioxane to ppm levels in household cleansing, personal care and cosmetics products, all of which commonly employ ethoxylated fatty alcohol sulfate surfactants and California is considering such laws. This review first assesses the methodologies used to quantify 1,4‐dioxane in surface water and drinking water, then extends the assessment to commercially available products, which are more complex sample matrices than water. Our assessment indicates that gas chromatography using conventional capillary columns and mass spectrometric detection, and the employment of an internal standard, particularly 1,4‐dioxane‐d8, is the best approach. A means of isolating and concentrating 1,4‐dioxane from the commercial samples is critical to achieve resolution at the sub‐ppm level and to minimize interference from contaminants present in the sample matrix. We review the different concentration approaches, such as headspace analysis, liquid–liquid and solid‐phase extraction, purge‐and‐trap, and solid‐phase microextraction, and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages for the robust long‐term assessment of 1,4‐dioxane levels in commercial products.