bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Long and Winding Road towards FAIR Data as an Integral Component of the Computational Modelling and Dissemination of Chemistry
Authors: Rzepa Henry S.
Published: June 2021

Fifty years of the author‘s activities as a “computational chemist” are described, linked by the theme of scientific data. For the first half of this period, data was often handled in a very impoverished way, appearing as in printed form as supporting information or as appendices in e. g. PhD theses and these methods resulted not only in considerable loss of information but caused severe and error‐prone difficulties in the re‐use of the data. The second period charts the explosive growth of the digital information era and describes the author‘s own involvement in developing some of the required infrastructures that are nowadays often taken for granted. This culminates in the present‐day increasing use of data repositories holding FAIR data, which is now firmly regarded as a first‐class citizen of the scientific processes. Many examples of these experiences are included in the essay for the readers to experiment with themselves.
Anabolic actions of PTH in murine models: two decades of insights
Authors: Zweifler Laura E. , Koh Amy J. , Daignault-Newton Stephanie , McCauley Laurie K.
Published: June 2021

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is produced by the parathyroid glands in response to low serum calcium concentrations where it targets bones, kidneys, and indirectly, intestines. The N-terminus of PTH has been investigated for decades for its ability to stimulate bone formation when administered intermittently (iPTH) and is used clinically as an effective anabolic agent for the treatment of osteoporosis. Despite great interest in iPTH and its clinical use, the mechanisms of PTH action remain complicated and not fully defined. More than 70 gene targets in more than 90 murine models have been utilized to better understand PTH anabolic actions. Because murine studies utilized wild-type mice as positive controls, a variety of variables were analyzed to better understand the optimal conditions under which iPTH functions. The greatest responses to iPTH were in male mice, with treatment starting later than 12 weeks of age, a treatment duration lasting 5–6 weeks, and a PTH dose of 30–60 μg/kg/day. This comprehensive study also evaluated these genetic models relative to the bone formative actions with a primary focus on the trabecular compartment revealing trends in critical genes and gene families relevant for PTH anabolic actions. The summation of these data revealed the gene deletions with the greatest increase in trabecular bone volume in response to iPTH. These included PTH and 1-α-hydroxylase (Pth;1α(OH)ase, 62-fold), amphiregulin (Areg, 15.8-fold), and PTH related protein (Pthrp, 10.2-fold). The deletions with the greatest inhibition of the anabolic response include deletions of: proteoglycan 4 (Prg4, −9.7-fold), low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (Lrp6, 1.3-fold), and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (Lrp5, −1.0-fold). Anabolic actions of iPTH were broadly affected via multiple and diverse genes. This data provides critical insight for future research and development, as well as application to human therapeutics. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
The Effects of Job Demands and Resources on School Counselor Burnout: Self‐Efficacy as a Mediator
Authors: Bardhoshi Gerta , Um Byeolbee
Published: June 2021

This study investigated the predictive factors of school counselor burnout informed by the job demands–resources model. Structural equation modeling was conducted with a nationwide sample of school counselors (N= 993). The results revealed that caseload and perceived organizational support were predictive of school counselor burnout. In addition, job resources indirectly influenced school counselor burnout mediated by self‐efficacy. Implications for preventing school counselor burnout and promoting professional self‐efficacy are discussed.
Early maladaptive schemas in young people who self‐injure
Authors: Nicol Annemarie , Mak Anita S. , Murray Kristen , Kavanagh Phillip S.
Published: June 2021

Background

There is emerging evidence that early maladaptive schemas (EMS) may be a cognitive vulnerability factor in nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI). The current study sought to examine the relationship between EMS and NSSI history, and whether this is moderated by gender, in a community youth sample.

Method

Participants were 403 Australian secondary and university students aged between 16 and 25 years, who completed a survey of NSSI history, EMS, and general emotional distress.

Results

Logistic regression analysis indicated that being female, depression, and EMS scores were useful for differentiating between youth reporting NSSI history and those who did not. High levels of Defectiveness/Shame and Abandonment/Instability schema scores, and low levels of Emotional Inhibition schema scores, were associated with NSSI history. Gender did not moderate the relationships between these EMS scores and NSSI history.

Conclusions

Present results suggest that aspects of the schema domain of Disconnection and Rejection are important for identifying NSSI history beyond young people's emotional distress. This provides researchers and clinicians with an opportunity to better target key EMS, especially beliefs about self‐defectiveness and feelings of shame, that may be driving the regulatory function of self‐injury among youth.
Infection with Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis reduces salamander capacity to mount a cell‐mediated immune response
Authors: Venesky Matthew D. , Laskey Corey A.
Published: June 2021

The vertebrate immune system is a costly defense system that is responsible for preventing and eliminating parasites and pathogens. Theory predicts that hosts experience tradeoffs associated with immune deployment and other physiological functions. Although empirical evidence for immune‐physiology tradeoffs are well documented in the literature, fewer studies have examined tradeoffs within the immune system in wild vertebrates. We explored the topic of concomitant immune challenges in amphibians by exposing salamanders (Plethodon cinereus) to a fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (hereafter “Bd”) and then to phytohemagglutinin (hereafter “PHA”). We measured Bd infection using quantitative PCR and used measurements of the tail thickness at the PHA injection site as an estimate of skin swelling. We tested whether Bd reduced the salamander's capacity to mount an immune response towards PHA or whether Bd would stimulate immune activity and thereby increase the response towards PHA. Salamanders that were infected with Bd had a reduced skin‐swelling when injected with PHA compared to noninfected salamanders, a result that is consistent with the hypothesis that Bd‐infected salamanders have lower immunocompetence than noninfected salamanders. We also found that PHA‐induced swelling response was negatively associated with Bd infection abundance (i.e., the infection burden of all exposed salamanders, including those that were exposed but not infected), indicating that salamanders with a higher infection abundance had the lowest swelling response to PHA. Our results suggest that individuals of P. cinereus might experience an energetic tradeoff between successfully fighting off Bd and mounting an immune response towards PHA.
Wheels in planar graphs and Hajós graphs
Authors: Xie Qiqin , Xie Shijie , Yu Xingxing , Yuan Xiaofan
Published: June 2021

It was conjectured by Hajós that graphs containing no ‐subdivision are 4‐colorable. Previous results show that any possible minimum counterexample to Hajós' conjecture, called Hajós graph, is 4‐connected but not 5‐connected. In this paper, we show that if a Hajós graph admits a 4‐cut or 5‐cut with a planar side then the planar side must be small or contains a special wheel. This is a step in our effort to reduce Hajós' conjecture to the Four Color Theorem.
Predicting the individualized risk of poor adherence to ART medication among adolescents living with HIV in Uganda: the Suubi+Adherence study
Authors: Brathwaite Rachel , Ssewamala Fred M , Neilands Torsten B , Okumu Moses , Mutumba Massy , Damulira Christopher , Nabunya Proscovia , Kizito Samuel , Sensoy Bahar Ozge , Mellins Claude A , McKay Mary M
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Achieving optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV) is challenging, especially in low‐resource settings. To help accurately determine who is at risk of poor adherence, we developed and internally validated models comprising multi‐level factors that can help to predict the individualized risk of poor adherence among ALWHIV in a resource‐limited setting such as Uganda.

Methods

We used data from a sample of 637 ALWHIV in Uganda who participated in a longitudinal study, “Suubi+Adherence” (2012 to 2018). The model was developed using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) penalized regression to select the best subset of multi‐level predictors (individual, household, community or economic‐related factors) of poor adherence in one year’s time using 10‐fold cross‐validation. Seventeen potential predictors included in the model were assessed at 36 months of follow‐up, whereas adherence was assessed at 48 months of follow‐up. Model performance was evaluated using discrimination and calibration measures.

Results

For the model predicting poor adherence, five of the 17 predictors (adherence history, adherence self‐efficacy, family cohesion, child poverty and group assignment) were retained. Its ability to discriminate between individuals with and without poor adherence was acceptable; area under the curve (AUC) = 69.9; 95% CI: 62.7, 72.8. There was no evidence of possible areas of miscalibration (test statistic = 1.20;p = 0.273). The overall performance of the model was good.

Conclusions

Our findings support prediction modelling as a useful tool that can be leveraged to improve outcomes across the HIV care continuum. Utilizing information from multiple sources, the risk prediction score tool applied here can be refined further with the ultimate goal of being used in a screening tool by practitioners working with ALWHIV. Specifically, the tool could help identify and provide early interventions to adolescents at the highest risk of poor adherence and/or viral non‐suppression. However, further fine‐tuning and external validation may be required before wide‐scale implementation.
Low complexity multiobjective finite impulse response filter design using Salp swarm algorithm and its improved version
Authors: Srivastava Savita , Dwivedi Atul Kumar , Nagaria Deepak
Published: June 2021

Recent trend indicates that the assessment of low complexity is crucial for an effectual design of digital filter. Earlier the existing algorithms solely focused on reducing the pass band ripples and the stop band ripples in spite of the requirement of low implementation complexity in finite impulse response (FIR) filter design. In this regard, the optimization‐based FIR filter using multiobjective improved Salp swarm optimization algorithm have been designed. The proposed method not only minimizes the ripples of pass band and stop band but also minimizes the transition band, number of sparsity, which is used to implement a FIR filter that abides the specified frequency. The nondominated solution of filter design has a set of an optimum solution as pareto front that maintains the trade‐off between the various specifications. The designed FIR filter has been compared with other reported method to validate the applicability of the proposed method. The evaluation and analysis have been performed regrading minimum pass band ripples, minimum stop band ripple, minimum transition band, and implementation complexity. To prove the practical applicability of the proposed method, the designed FIR filters have been implemented in Xilinx ISE14.7 (Virtex‐VII) environment. The comparison result shows that the proposed method performs better than all other reported method in achieving minimum ripples and implementation complexity.
Heat wave magnitude over India under changing climate: Projections from CMIP5 and CMIP6 experiments
Authors: Das Jew , Umamahesh Nanduri Venkata
Published: June 2021

Atmospheric warming is expected to increase the magnitude and frequency of extreme climatic events namely floods, droughts, heat waves, and so on. Thus, the present study attempts to answer the following research questions; (i) What are the possible implications on future heat wave events due to the projected temperature? (ii) What are the expected changes in heat wave properties under different classifications of heat wave events under different climate scenarios? (iii) Whether the future projection of heat wave events differ significantly under CMIP5 and CMIP6 experiments over India? To answer the above questions, the present study uses the bias‐corrected future projections of maximum temperature (Tmax) from 26 GCMs that is, 13 from CMIP5 and 13 from CMIP6 experiments. In addition, two RCPs (4.5 and 8.5) under CMIP5 and four SSPs (126, 245, 370, and 585) under CMIP6 scenarios are considered. The Heat Wave Magnitude Index (HWMI) is used to characterize the heat wave over India. The essential findings from the study indicate that the Tmax anomaly is likely to increase (SSP126 < SSP245 < SSP370 < SSP585 and RCP4.5 < RCP8.5) in future causing more intense, high frequency, and long duration heat wave events over India. Presently unaffected large regions of southern, northeast, and western parts are expected to be severely affected by heat wave events. More intense heat wave events are likely to occur under RCP8.5 scenario as compared to SSP585 scenario. The percentage of affected area is projected to increase significantly from SSP126 to SSP585 under extreme and very extreme heat wave events. Under RCP8.5 scenario, the average duration of heat wave events for very extreme, and super extreme classifications is significantly higher than SSP585 scenario. Our findings suggest the paramount necessity of adaptation strategies to address the adverse consequences of foreseen heat wave events.
Enhanced moisture transport associated with the interdecadal change in winter precipitation over Northwest China
Authors: Yin Xiaoxue , Zhou Lian‐Tong
Published: June 2021

In this study, the interdecadal increase in winter precipitation in northwest China (NWC) since the late 1980s and the associated moisture flux transport are investigated. The results show that an interdecadal change in moisture flux transport also occurred in the late 1980s, resulting in anomalous moisture transport convergence over NWC. The examination of boundary moisture transport shows enhanced incoming net moisture flux transport over NWC after the late 1980s. The zonal and meridional components both play a key role in the net moisture flux transport, with increased incoming transport from the western boundary dominated and followed by increased incoming transport from the southern boundary. The circulation responsible for the moisture flux transport anomalies is a Eurasian (EU)‐like teleconnection over mid‐to‐high latitudes of the Eurasian continent. The EU teleconnection pattern transformed from a positive phase to a negative phase in the late 1980s. The related anomalous cyclone over central Asia and the anomalous anticyclone over Japan result in westerly anomalies to the west of NWC and southeasterly anomalies to the east, respectively. Together, these anomalies enable an enhanced net gain of moisture transport and the anomalous moisture transport convergence over NWC. The enhanced moisture supply, strengthened upward movement and anomalous convergence result in an interdecadal increase in winter precipitation in NWC. In addition, the transition of the EU teleconnection is likely attributed to changes in the zonal mean wind. Sea surface temperature warming in the North Atlantic and northwestern Pacific regions also play a role in the change in the EU teleconnection pattern.
Project managers' breadth of experience, project complexity, and project performance
Authors: Salvador Fabrizio , Alba Constantin , Madiedo Juan Pablo , Tenhiälä Antti , Bendoly Elliot
Published: June 2021

Research has found that a project manager's experience is a driver of project performance. However, whether specialist or generalist project managers are more effective remains an open question to date. In this paper, we examine how project managers' breadth of experience influences project completion time under different levels of project complexity. Using longitudinal data from 9,765 enterprise resource planning (ERP) system projects executed by a software services organization, we find that managers' breadth of experience has a U‐shaped impact on project completion time. We also find that while we can identify an optimal level of breadth of experience that minimizes project completion time on the U‐curve, this optimal level becomes lower (the U‐curve shifts to the left) as project complexity increases. As project complexity decreases, the U‐curve flattens and tends to become monotonically decreasing, signifying that diseconomies from project managers' breadth of experience are less apparent in simpler projects. From a practical standpoint, these findings suggest that project managers' breadth of experience is a critical driver of project performance that should be a key consideration in the selection of managers to lead knowledge work, especially for complex projects.
Gait asymmetries are exacerbated at faster walking speeds in individuals with acute anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Garcia Steven A. , Brown Scott R. , Koje Mary , Krishnan Chandramouli , Palmieri‐Smith Riann M.
Published: June 2021

Previous research suggests more biomechanically demanding tasks (e.g., stair descent, hopping) magnify biomechanical asymmetries compared with walking after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, it is unclear if modifying task‐specific constraints, like walking speed also elicits greater biomechanical asymmetries in this population. We examined the effects of manipulating walking speed on ground reaction force (GRF) asymmetries in individuals with ACL reconstruction and uninjured controls. Thirty individuals with ACL reconstruction (age = 20.6 ± 5.4 years, body mass index [BMI] = 23.9 ± 3.3 kg/m2) and 15 controls (age = 23.1 ± 4.5 years, BMI = 23.6 ± 2.7 kg/m2) were tested on an instrumented treadmill at three speeds (100%, 120%, and 80% self‐selected speed). Bilateral vertical and posterior‐anterior GRFs were recorded at each speed. GRF asymmetries were calculated by subtracting the uninjured from the injured limb at each percent of stance. Statistical parametric mapping was used to evaluate the effects of speed on GRF asymmetries across stance. We found vertical and posterior GRF asymmetries were exacerbated at faster speeds and reduced at slower speeds in ACL individuals but not controls (p < .05). No differences in anterior GRF asymmetries were observed between speeds in either group (p > .05). Our results suggest increasing walking speed magnifies GRF asymmetries in individuals with ACL reconstruction. Statement of Clinical Significance: Evaluating both preferred and fast walking speeds may aid in characterizing biomechanical asymmetries in individuals with ACL reconstruction which may be valuable in earlier rehabilitative time points when more difficult tasks like hopping and running are not feasible.
Determination of selenite and selenomethionine in kefir grains by reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography–inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectrometry
Authors: Bodur Süleyman , Öner Miray , Erarpat Sezin , Bakırdere Sezgin
Published: June 2021

A new and efficient reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography–inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry method was developed for the simultaneous separation and determination of SeO32– and seleno‐dl‐methionine in kefir grains. For the system, limits of detection and quantitation values for SeO32– and seleno‐dl‐methionine were calculated as 0.52/1.73 mg/kg (as Se) and 0.26/0.87 mg/kg (as Se), respectively. After performing the system analytical performance, recovery experiment was done for kefir grains and percent recovery results for SeO32– and seleno‐dl‐methionine were calculated as 98.4 ± 0.8% and 93.6 ± 1.0%, respectively. It followed by the feeding studies that the kefir grains were exposed to three different concentrations of SeO32– (20, 30, and 50 mg/kg) for approximately 4 days at room temperature to investigate the conversion/non‐conversion of SeO32– to seleno‐dl‐methionine. Next, the fed grains were extracted with tetramethylammonium hydroxide pentahydrate solution (20%, w/w) and then sent to the developed system. There was no detectable seleno‐dl‐methionine found in fed kefir grains at different concentrations of SeO32– while inorganic or elemental selenium in the fed kefir grains was determined between 1579.5 – 3116.0 mg/kg (as Se). Selenium species in the kefir grains samples was found in the form of SeO32– proved by using an anion exchange column.
On‐Site Laser Photobiomodulation Treatment of Crushed Muscle Due to Prolonged Pressure in Rats
Authors: Almog Mara , Nissan Moshe , Koifman Igal , Wollman Yoram , Rochkind Shimon
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

Crush injuries and prolonged pressure on muscles lead to bruises and sprains and, in most of the cases, cause distraction of the muscle and release of particles into the blood stream, causing renal and systemic complications in severe cases. Laser photobiomodulation treatment (i.e., laser phototherapy) is a method suggested to decrease the pressure damage in the first 24–48 hours after muscle injury, allowing a faster and more complete physical rehabilitation. We studied the efficacy of non‐invasive laser photobiomodulation treatment as an on‐site treatment for crush‐injured gastrocnemius muscles, developing a moderate muscle crush injury model and aiming at decreasing damage extent while regaining physical competence faster.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Muscle crush injury was performed on 30 female Wistar rats using direct pressure for 10 minutes on the gastrocnemius muscle in both left and right hindlimbs. Immediately after the injury, only the left hindlimb were irradiated for 16 minutes (with 780 nm laser with a power of 250 mW, the energy at the target was 240 J, and the fluence was 1019 J/cm2) for 1, 3, or 7 consecutive days, and sacrificed accordingly. During the follow‐up period, 1, 3, or 7 days, both gastrocnemius muscles (of the treated and untreated hindlimbs) were evaluated for electrophysiology and functionality.

Results

The laser photobiomodulation treatment showed a significant electrophysiological and functional recovery of the gastrocnemius muscle during the first 3 days after injury, in comparison with the untreated hindlimb.

Conclusions

These preliminary results are promising, showing a significant effect of the laser photobiomodulation treatment during the first 3 days after the induction of the muscle crush injury, which is the most critical period in the clinical aspect. These findings suggest a therapeutic approach, which may help restore the muscle after crush injury.
Effect of tempering temperature on the microstructure, corrosion resistance, and antibacterial properties of Cu‐bearing martensitic stainless steel
Authors: Hao Xinxin , Xi Tong , Xu Zhiqiang , Liu Lichu , Yang Chunguang , Yang Ke
Published: June 2021

In this study, the effects of tempering temperature on the microstructure, hardness, antibacterial performance and corrosion resistance of Cu‐bearing 5Cr15MoV martensitic stainless steel (5Cr15MoV‐Cu MSS) were investigated using an optical microscope, a scanning electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction, a transmission electron microscope, an antibacterial test, electrochemical measurements, and the salt spray test. The results showed that the hardness curve had a saddle shape and its values reached the peak value after tempering at 500°C, due to the secondary hardening effect by the precipitation of tiny secondary carbides and Cu‐rich precipitates. In addition, the antibacterial results also showed excellent antibacterial performance against Escherichia coli at 500°C because of the formation of Cu‐rich precipitates. Results of corrosion tests indicated that the corrosion resistance decreased gradually with an increase of the tempering temperature. In particular, the passivation did not occur when the tempering temperature was above 500°C, which may be related to the Cu‐rich precipitates and Cr depletion.
Peripheral Immune Profile and Neutrophil‐to‐Lymphocyte Ratio in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Muñoz‐Delgado Laura , Macías‐García Daniel , Jesús Silvia , Martín‐Rodríguez Juan Francisco , Labrador‐Espinosa Miguel Ángel , Jiménez‐Jaraba María Valle , Adarmes‐Gómez Astrid , Carrillo Fátima , Mir Pablo
Published: June 2021

Background

The neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in peripheral blood is a well‐established inflammatory marker, but its role in Parkinson's disease (PD) remains unclear.

Objectives

To determine whether a different peripheral immune profile and NLR were present in PD patients.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study that included 377 PD patients and 355 healthy controls (HCs). Leukocytes, subpopulations, and the NLR were measured. Multivariate linear regression analyses were applied to determine the differences between groups and the association between NLR and clinical characteristics in PD. A meta‐analysis was performed to clarify the association between NLR and PD.

Results

In our case–control study, the NLR was significantly higher in PD patients compared with HCs (2.47 ± 1.1 vs. 1.98 ± 0.91, P < 0.001). No association between NLR and age at onset, disease severity, or disease duration was found. The meta‐analysis showed that the NLR was likely to be higher in PD patients.

Conclusions

PD patients had an altered peripheral immune profile and a higher NLR compared with HCs. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Atremorine in Parkinson's disease: From dopaminergic neuroprotection to pharmacogenomics
Authors: Cacabelos Ramón , Carrera Iván , Martínez Olaia , Alejo Ramón , Fernández‐Novoa Lucía , Cacabelos Pablo , Corzo Lola , Rodríguez Susana , Alcaraz Margarita , Nebril Laura , Tellado Iván , Cacabelos Natalia , Pego Rocío , Naidoo Vinogran , Carril Juan C.
Published: June 2021

Atremorine is a novel bioproduct obtained by nondenaturing biotechnological processes from a genetic species of Vicia faba. Atremorine is a potent dopamine (DA) enhancer with powerful effects on the neuronal dopaminergic system, acting as a neuroprotective agent in Parkinson's disease (PD). Over 97% of PD patients respond to a single dose of Atremorine (5 g, p.o.) 1 h after administration. This response is gender‐, time‐, dose‐, and genotype‐dependent, with optimal doses ranging from 5 to 20 g/day, depending upon disease severity and concomitant medication. Drug‐free patients show an increase in DA levels from 12.14 ± 0.34 pg/ml to 6463.21 ± 1306.90 pg/ml; and patients chronically treated with anti‐PD drugs show an increase in DA levels from 1321.53 ± 389.94 pg/ml to 16,028.54 ± 4783.98 pg/ml, indicating that Atremorine potentiates the dopaminergic effects of conventional anti‐PD drugs. Atremorine also influences the levels of other neurotransmitters (adrenaline, noradrenaline) and hormones which are regulated by DA (e.g., prolactin, PRL), with no effect on serotonin or histamine. The variability in Atremorine‐induced DA response is highly attributable to pharmacogenetic factors. Polymorphic variants in pathogenic (SNCA, NUCKS1, ITGA8, GPNMB, GCH1, BCKDK, APOE, LRRK2, ACMSD), mechanistic (DRD2), metabolic (CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP3A4/5, NAT2), transporter (ABCB1, SLC6A2, SLC6A3, SLC6A4) and pleiotropic genes (APOE) influence the DA response to Atremorine and its psychomotor and brain effects. Atremorine enhances DNA methylation and displays epigenetic activity via modulation of the pharmacoepigenetic network. Atremorine is a novel neuroprotective agent for dopaminergic neurons with potential prophylactic and therapeutic activity in PD.
Genetic variations in DNA repair gene NEIL1 associated with radiation pneumonitis risk in lung cancer patients
Authors: Zheng Yuming , Zheng Leizhen , Yu Jiahua , Jiang Mawei , Zhang Songfang , Cai Xuwei , Zhu Meiling
Published: June 2021

Background

Radiation pneumonitis (RP) is a common side effect in lung cancer patients who received radiotherapy. Our previous study found genetic variations in DNA repair gene NEIL1 may be a predictor of RP in patients with esophageal cancer. So, we hypothesis genetic variations in NEIL1 gene could affect the risk of RP in lung cancer patients following radiotherapy.

Methods

Genetic variations rs4462560 G>C and rs7402844 C>G in NEIL1 gene were genotyped in 174 lung cancer patients received radio(chemo)therapy. Luciferase assay, real‐time PCR and Western blot were used to access the effect of the variants on NEIL1 in HELF and HEF cell lines which were transfected with plasmids containing rs4462560 G>C and rs7402844 C>G.

Results

Patients with rs4462560 CC genotype had a lower risk of RP grade ≥2 than GG genotype. Compared with the CC genotype, rs7402844 GG genotype was associated with an increased RP grade ≥2 risk. What is more, rs4462560 G decreased the relative luciferase activity of NEIL1 gene promoter compared with the negative control in vitro, while rs4462560 C can increase the relative luciferase activity. The mRNA and protein level of the NEIL1 gene in rs4462560 G were lower than rs4462560 C.

Conclusions

Genetic variants of NEIL1 are associated with RP risk through regulation of NEIL1 expression and serve as independent biomarkers for prediction of RP in patients treated with thoracic radiotherapy.
Genital lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) and leg LVA to prevent the recurrence of genital acquired lymphangiectasia
Authors: Hara Hisako , Mihara Makoto
Published: June 2021

Background

Genital acquired lymphangiectasia (GAL) commonly recurs after simple resection. This study aimed to elucidate the efficacy of lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) in the genital region or legs for preventing GAL recurrence after resection.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated 25 female patients who underwent GAL resection and LVA, lymphoscintigraphy, and indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography. Isotope or ICG was injected into the leg. Medicine accumulating in the genitals indicates lymphatic flow from the legs to the genitals (type 1). In some cases, we injected ICG into the anus to detect lymphatic flow from the anus to the genitals (type 2). Based on the findings, we selected LVA site (genital or leg).

Results

The mean patient age was 61.4 (range, 42–81) years. Seventeen patients underwent leg LVA only, while eight patients underwent genital LVA. The mean follow‐up period was 285 (range, 87–365) days. GAL recurrence was observed in 10 patients (40.0%): three of eight (37.5%) who underwent genital LVA versus seven of 17 (41.2%) who underwent leg LVA. Among patients with type 2 lymphatic vessels, GAL recurrence was observed in two of six (33.3%) who underwent genital LVA versus five of nine (55.6%) who underwent leg LVA.

Conclusion

Genital LVA prevented GAL recurrence in patients with type 2 lymphatic flow. Detecting the direction of lymphatic flow around GAL is essential to its successful treatment.
Large deflection of functionally graded carbon nanotube reinforced composite cylindrical shell exposed to internal pressure and thermal gradient
Authors: Golmakani Mohammad E. , Rahimi Elnaz , Sadeghian Mostafa
Published: June 2021

In this paper, the nonlinear bending of functionally graded carbon nanotube‐reinforced composite (FG‐CNTRC) shell exposed to thermomechanical loading is perused. It is assumed that the composite shell is reinforced in the longitudinal axis and is also made from a polymeric matrix. Mechanical features of the constituents are obtained based on the modified rule of mixture, and they are considered to be temperature dependent (TD). Using the first‐order shear deformation shell theory (FSDT) as well as von Kármán type of geometrical nonlinearity, the equilibrium mathematical relations are derived. Utilizing the dynamic relaxation (DR) procedure combined with the central finite difference method, these mathematical relations are solved in diverse boundary conditions. Finally, roles of carbon nanotube (CNT) distributions, boundary conditions, shell radius, thickness‐to‐radius ratios, volume fraction of CNTs, mechanical loads, thermal gradient, and temperature dependency are examined on the results. From the numerical results, it can be inferred that in the shell with the CC boundary condition, the FG‐O distribution of nanotubes has the maximum deflection, and the lowest deflection belongs to the uniform distribution. However, in the SS boundary condition, the highest and lowest values of deflections are related to V and uniform distributions, respectively.
A patient‐focused survey to assess the effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic and social guidelines on people with muscular dystrophy
Authors: Eichinger Katy , Lewis Leann , Dilek Nuran , Higgs Kiley , Walker Michaela , Palmer David , Cooley John M. , Johnson Nicholas , Tawil Rabi , Statland Jeffrey
Published: June 2021

Introduction/Aims

In this study, we examined the social and health impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic and social guidelines on people with muscular dystrophies.

Methods

A prospective de‐identified electronic survey was distributed to adults with self‐reported facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), myotonic dystrophy (DM), and limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) enrolled in national registries or with patient advocacy groups.

The COVID‐19 Impact Survey was developed by muscular dystrophy experts in association with patient collaborators and advocacy groups. The Perceived Stress Scale was used to measure perceived stress.

Results

Respondents (n = 774: 56% FSHD; 35% DM, and 9% LGMD) were mostly women and middle‐aged (range 19–87 y). Rates of COVID‐19 infections were low (<1%), compliance with local social distancing guidelines and policies high (98%). Major challenges reported during the pandemic included: obtaining treatment (40%), managing stress (37%), social distancing (36%), and obtaining essentials (34%). The majority reported a slight worsening in their disease state. Respondents reported moderate stress levels (stress score = 15.4; range = 0–35), with higher stress levels reported by women and those under age 30 y. Three‐quarters of participants who participated in telemedicine visits were satisfied with the encounters; however, most reported a preference for in‐person visits.

Discussion

People with muscular dystrophy reported moderate stress and challenges during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Interventions such as exercise and stress‐coping strategies, including strategies specific to women or individuals <30 y, may be important. Further investigation is needed into the role of telemedicine in the care of individuals with muscular dystrophy.
Dynamic site response analysis in the face of uncertainty–an approach based on response surface method
Authors: Liu Wenxin , Juang C. Hsein , Chen Qiushi , Chen Guoxing
Published: June 2021

Although advanced modeling techniques such as the finite element method (FEM) have been used successfully in dynamic site response analysis, the high computational expense has hindered the incorporation of input parameter uncertainty in such analysis. Thus, when the variation of the peak ground acceleration (PGA) at the ground surface, which is the outcome of the site response analysis, has to be evaluated in the face of uncertainty, a surrogate model such as Response Surface Method (RSM) model is often used in lieu of the FEM model. In this paper, the RSM surrogate model was implemented in the context of seismic site response analysis to evaluate the variation (or uncertainty) of the PGA due to the propagation of input parameter uncertainty. The engineering implication of the variation of the surface PGA is significant as this knowledge is required for such tasks as reliability analysis of soil liquefaction and probabilistic seismic risk analysis. To derive the RSM model specifically for a site response analysis, a parametric study of the dynamic site responses using FEM code ABAQUS with the modified Davidenkov soil constitutive model implemented as a user‐defined material subroutine is first conducted. The input parameters, including the soil profile, soil properties, and input ground motion, in a typical dynamic site response analysis are then characterized and screened for their suitability to be included in the RSM model. For a given site response problem in the face of uncertainty, representative “samples” are taken for site response analysis using ABAQUS, and the analyses are carried out and finally the response surface is constructed using the outcomes of the ABAQUS numerical experimentations. The accuracy of the developed RSM model is then validated using the results of ABAQUS on cases not used in the development of the RSM model. Once the RSM model is deemed satisfactory, the reliability‐based formulation for evaluating the mean and standard deviation of the surface PGA is established. Example is provided to illustrate the RSM approach for dynamic site response analysis in the face of input parameter uncertainty.
Enhanced recovery protocols in patients undergoing pancreatic surgery: An umbrella review
Authors: Li Jing , Lin Frances , Yu Shuhui , Marshall Andrea P.
Published: June 2021

Aim

To identify, synthesize and appraise the systematic reviews of ERAS for patients undergoing pancreatic surgery and facilitate ERAS implementation.

Design

An umbrella review was used to identify systematic reviews.

Methods

A systematic search following the PRISMA guidelines was used to search databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, CNKI, WanFang and VJIP. AMSTAR 2 was used to appraise the quality of included reviews.

Results

Ten systematic reviews were included. The quality of all included systematic reviews was rated as “critically low.” The most frequently reported ERAS elements were epidurals analgesia/PCA (9/10), goal‐directed mobilization (9/10) and early removal of drains (9/10). Only one review mentioned audit protocol compliance. None of the included reviews reported discharge standards. Ten reviews reported decreased length of stay, seven reviews reported lower hospital costs, and six reviews reported decreased total complications rate. There were no adverse effects reported.
A narrative review of paracetamol‐induced hypotension: Keeping the patient safe
Authors: Young Tricia L.
Published: June 2021

Aim

To understand the prevalence and epidemiology of paracetamol‐induced hypotension and clinical implications for contemporaneous practice.

Design

Narrative review.

Methods

In May and June 2020, an open‐date literature search of English publications indexed in ProQuest, PubMed, and EBSCO was conducted with the search terms ‘acetaminophen’ and ‘hypotension’ and related search combinations (‘paracetamol’, ‘propacetamol’, ‘low blood pressure’, ‘fever’, ‘sepsis’, and ‘shock’) to identify peer‐reviewed publications of blood pressure changes after paracetamol administration in humans.

Results

A pattern of blood pressure reduction following the administration of paracetamol is demonstrated in the 27 studies included in this review. Haemodynamic intervention often followed persistent blood pressure reduction, and was greatest in febrile critically ill patients who received parenteral paracetamol.
Polymer‐Supported Liquid Layer Electrolyzer Enabled Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to CO with High Energy Efficiency
Authors: Li Shangyu , Ma Yiwen , Zhao Tiancheng , Li Jiaxin , Kang Xinyue , Guo Wen , Wen Yunzhou , Wang Liping , Wang Yurui , Lin Renxing , Li Tiantian , Tan Hairen , Peng Huisheng , Zhang Bo
Published: June 2021

The electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to carbon monoxide (CO) is a favorable approach to reduce CO2 emission while converting excess sustainable energy to important chemical feedstocks. At high current density (>100 mA cm−2), low energy efficiency (EE) and unaffordable cell cost limit the industrial application of conventional CO2 electrolyzers. Thus, a crucial and urgent task is to design a new type of CO2 electrolyzer that can work efficiently at high current density. Here we report a polymer‐supported liquid layer (PSL) electrolyzer using polypropylene non‐woven fabric as a separator between anode and cathode. Ag based cathode was fed with humid CO2 and potassium hydroxide was fed to earth‐abundant NiFe‐based anode. In this configuration, the PSL provided high‐pH condition for the cathode reaction and reduced the cell resistance, achieving a high full cell EE over 66 % at 100 mA cm−2.
Friendship quality and ethnocultural boys: An exploratory evaluation of the WiseGuyz Program
Authors: Exner‐Cortens Deinera , Claussen Caroline , Lewis Stefan , Orukpe Abimbola M. , Coupland Kerry
Published: June 2021

Tier 1 school mental health programs for middle school youth often focus on healthy relationships promotion. However, the vast majority of these programs take a gender‐ and race‐neutral approach (i.e., content that does not focus on the way that gender, race, and ethnicity intersect to shape relationships and mental health). Embedding these intersections into Tier 1 programs is critical to equitably advancing mental health for middle school youth. This article specifically explores associations between participation in a Tier 1 gender‐transformative healthy relationships program and friendship quality for Ethnocultural boys. Data were drawn from 278 White and Ethnocultural boys who participated in the program in 2016–2017 or 2017–2018 in a Western Canadian province. Data were analyzed using three‐level multilevel models. In these data, we found that Ethnocultural boys who participated in WiseGuyz reported improved friendship quality with their closest same‐sex friend following the end of the program. We also found that Ethnocultural boys who reported a positive change in male role norms related to emotional restriction reported significant improvements to friendship quality from pre‐ to post‐test. Findings suggest the importance of embedding equity into Tier 1 school mental health programming through a specific focus on intersections between gender, race, and ethnicity.
Families’ experiences of child and adolescent brain tumor: A systematic review and synthesis of qualitative research
Authors: Young Kate , Bowers Alison , Bradford Natalie
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Brain tumors are the most common and fatal of all solid tumors for children and adolescents; those who survive live with long‐term physical and emotional consequences, as do their families. We aimed to synthesize relevant qualitative evidence on families’ experiences and psychosocial service needs across the lifespan to identify gaps in care delivery and research.

Methods

Searches were conducted in Medline, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Embase, and Web of Science. Identified papers were assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool. Data were extracted into NVivo12 and analyzed by qualitative description and, where appropriate, thematic analysis.

Results

The search yielded 628 papers, of which 40 (33 studies) were eligible (6%). Although the methodological quality of the papers was low, we identified concerns that were consistently reported over time and from different perspectives. Individual family members had varying psychosocial needs to be addressed within healthcare, schooling, and public policy. These include for survivor’s mental health (particularly for body image), and to the disproportionate biopsychosocial burden faced by mother‐caregivers.

Conclusions

Addressing the biological aspects of brain tumor cannot be our only focus. We have an obligation to provide services that meet the needs of families across diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, palliative care, and bereavement.
Primary ciliary dyskinesia due to CCNO mutations—A genotype‐phenotype correlation contribution
Authors: Henriques Ana Raquel , Constant Carolina , Descalço Andreia , Pinto Andreia , Moura Nunes J , Sampaio Pedro , Lopes Susana S , Pereira Luísa , Bandeira Teresa
Published: June 2021

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is genetically and clinically heterogeneous. CCNO mutations are associated with chronic destructive lung disease and were first described in 2014. Early reports suggest that CCNO is mutated more frequently than expected, however, these are considered rare. We report on three eleven‐year‐old children with PCD due to CCNO mutations. All children presented early‐onset respiratory symptoms, no cardiac or situs anomalies and moderate to severe clinical courses. Patients 1 and 3 were admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit due to respiratory distress. Patients 1 and 2 had atelectasis and lobar collapse, for which lobectomy was performed for patient 1. Patient 3 also presented otitis media with effusion with conductive hearing loss, requiring tympanostomy tube insertion twice. Diagnosis of PCD for all three required repeated nasal brushings, delaying diagnostic confirmation. Microscopy analysis revealed severely decreased numbers of cilia, but normal ultrastructure and uncoordinated beat pattern in the residual cilia. Surprisingly, the prevalence of pathogenic CCNO variants in our centre is higher than expected (three out of sixteen patients). Pathogenic variants in PCD‐causing genes lead to specific ultrastructural defects, and there is a suggestion for genotype‐phenotype association. However, there are little longitudinal data evaluating the impact of specific defects on disease progression, but a recent study showed a worse lung disease and poorer nutritional status. Concluding, this report underlies the importance of patient‐oriented diagnosis and management in highly experienced PCD centres.
Long‐term overall survival of radical prostatectomy patients is often superior to the general population: A comparison using life‐table data
Authors: Würnschimmel Christoph , Wenzel Mike , Wang Nuowei , Tian Zhe , Karakiewicz Pierre I. , Graefen Markus , Huland Hartwig , Tilki Derya
Published: June 2021

Background

To examine overall survival rates within a large cohort of German prostate cancer (PCa) patients and to compare these with life‐expectancy (LE) predictions derived from German life tables. We hypothesized that the advantage of good general health in radical prostatectomy (RP) patients combined with favorable cancer outcomes might lead to even higher overall survival rates over 10 years compared to the LE of a general population.

Methods

A total of 6483 patients were treated with RP between 1992 and 2007 at the Martini‐Klinik Prostate Cancer Center. Preoperative risk classification was performed according to D'Amico. Postoperative risk classification was performed according to the Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment score (CAPRA‐S). A simulated cohort was created that resembled the exact age distribution of the RP population using Monte Carlo simulation which was based on data derived from official male German life tables (1992–2017). Markov chain was used to represent natural age progression of the simulated cohort. Kaplan–Meier plots were created to display the differences between 10‐year observed overall survival (OS) and the simulated, predicted LE.

Results

For D'Amico low risk and intermediate risk, 10‐year OS was 12.0% and 9.2% above predicted LE in the simulated cohort, respectively. For D'Amico high risk, OS was virtually the same as predicted LE (0.8% difference in favor of RP treated patients). For CAPRA‐S low and intermediate risk, OS was 11.8% and 9.7% above predicted LE. For CAPRA‐S high risk, OS was virtually the same as predicted LE (0.3% difference in favor of the simulated cohort).

Conclusions

Low‐ and intermediate risk PCa patients treated with RP can expect a very favorable overall survival, that even exceeds LE predictions. High risk patients' overall survival perfectly aligns with LE predictions.