bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The cultivation conditions affect the aggregation and functionality of β‐cell lines alone and in coculture with mesenchymal stromal/stem cells
Authors: Petry Florian , Salzig Denise
Published: May 2022

The manufacturing of viable and functional β‐cell spheroids is required for diabetes cell therapy and drug testing. Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are known to improve β‐cell viability and functionality. We therefore investigated the aggregation behavior of three different β‐cell lines (rat insulinoma‐1 cell line [INS‐1], mouse insulinoma‐6 cell line [MIN6], and a cell line formed by the electrofusion of primary human pancreatic islets and PANC‐1 cells [1.1B4]), two MSC types, and mixtures of β‐cells and MSCs under different conditions. We screened several static systems to produce uniform β‐cell and MSC spheroids, finding cell‐repellent plates the most suitable. The three different β‐cell lines differed in their aggregation behavior, spheroid size, and growth in the same static environment. We found no major differences in spheroid formation between primary MSCs and an immortalized MSC line, although both differed with regard to the aggregation behavior of the β‐cell lines. All spheroids showed a reduced viability due to mass transfer limitations under static conditions. We therefore investigated three dynamic systems (shaking multi‐well plates, spinner flasks, and shaking flasks). In shaking flasks, there were no β‐cell‐line‐dependent differences in aggregation behavior, resulting in uniform and highly viable spheroids. We found that the aggregation behavior of the β‐cell lines changed in a static coculture with MSCs. The β‐cell/MSC coculture conditions must be refined to avoid a rapid segregation into distinct populations under dynamic conditions.
Environmental, energy, and economic assessment of bread‐making processes: A case study
Authors: Nadi Fatemeh , Shahi Taher , Chasiotis Vasileios
Published: May 2022

Fifteen million tons of bread is annually produced in Iran of which the 80% of share in production belongs to traditional bakeries. The present study examines the aspects of the energetic, economic, and environmental impacts of production of Iranian breads (Barbari, Lavash, and Sangak). The results showed that energy demand of a typical baking process of Iranian breads is 22.93–26.08 MJ kg−1. The annual energy utilization of these bakeries is 239.57 TJ, accompanied with 13,308 ton year−1 of CO2 emissions. Sangak bread production had the highest energy efficiency, energy productivity, and the lowest rejected energy. In terms of economic aspects, the highest net income, profit to cost, and economic productivity, were related to Barbari bread production. Sangak bread production had the least environmental impacts. Lavash bread production, although it is the thinnest bread, had the highest energy consumption, was responsible for emitting the largest share of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) to the atmosphere and it had the lowest economic return. The flour was the most influential input on the energy efficiency, cost, and GHG emissions among the three examined types of bread production. Therefore, improving wheat cultivars and flour production process, may reduce the energy consumption and the GHG emissions in the bread industry.
Comparative performance of multiple energy storage systems in unified voltage and frequency regulation of power system including electric vehicles
Authors: Ramoji Satish Kumar , Saikia Lalit Chandra
Published: May 2022

Modern power systems are very complicated and have more obligation to uphold the supply of power be reliable, stable, and of decent quality at both the transmission and distribution phases. Preserving grid balance is a significant concern if there is an unforeseen generation deficit or grid disturbance, or intermittent renewable energy sources, such as bio‐diesel, electric vehicles (EVs), and solar power are incorporated into the energy mix. To compensate for this imbalance and enhance the power system's reliability and stability, the energy storage systems (ESS) can be regarded as an appropriate measure. Thus, ESS contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions by successfully integrating more renewable energy sources into the grid. This article presents multiple ESSs, such as pumped hydroelectric storage (PHS), accurate flywheel energy storage (AFES), battery energy storage (BES), capacitive energy storage (CE), and superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMEs) and their comparative performance analysis in unified voltage and frequency control of power system. The proposed interconnected power system includes thermal, solar‐thermal, bio‐diesel‐engine generator, and EVs. In both control systems, a maiden attempt was made to utilize Harris' Hawks optimization‐based fuzzy‐fractional‐order‐tilt‐integral‐derivative (FFOTID) controller. The repercussion of PHS proclaims a substantial amelioration in system performance than other ESSs. Likewise, the system exhibits better dynamics with the coalition of PHS and power system stabilizer (PSS) of AVR compared to their separate intervention. Lastly, sensitivity analysis of proposed controller is analyzed by alteration of load perturbation and nonlinearity of thermal plants, which ensures optimal controller parameters accomplished at nominal conditions are resilient enough.
Progressive cholestasis and associated sclerosing cholangitis are frequent complications of COVID‐19 in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Hartl Lukas , Haslinger Katharina , Angerer Martin , Semmler Georg , Schneeweiss‐Gleixner Mathias , Jachs Mathias , Simbrunner Benedikt , Bauer David Josef Maria , Eigenbauer Ernst , Strassl Robert , Breuer Monika , Kimberger Oliver , Laxar Daniel , Lampichler Katharina , Halilbasic Emina , Stättermayer Albert Friedrich , Ba‐Ssalamah Ahmed , Mandorfer Mattias , Scheiner Bernhard , Reiberger Thomas , Trauner Michael
Published: May 2022

Background and Aims

Cholestasis is associated with disease severity and worse outcome in COVID‐19. Cases of secondary sclerosing cholangitis (SSC) after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection have been described.

Approach and Results

Hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 between 03/2020 and 07/2021 were included. Patients were stratified as having (i) no chronic liver disease (CLD), (ii) non‐advanced CLD (non‐ACLD), or (iii) advanced CLD (ACLD). Patients with CLD and non–COVID‐19 pneumonia were matched to patients with CLD and COVID‐19 as a control cohort. Liver chemistries before (Pre) and at first, second, and third blood withdrawal after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (T1–T3) and at last available time point (last) were recorded. A total of 496 patients were included. In total, 13.1% (n = 65) had CLD (non‐ACLD: 70.8%; ACLD: 29.2%); the predominant etiology was NAFLD/NASH (60.0%). COVID‐19–related liver injury was more common among patients with CLD (24.6% vs. 10.6%; p = 0.001). After SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, patients with CLD exhibited progressive cholestasis with persistently increasing levels of alkaline phosphatase (Pre: 91.0 vs. T1: 121.0 vs. last: 175.0 U/L; p < 0.001) and gamma‐glutamyl transferase (Pre: 95.0 vs. T1: 135.0 vs. last: 202.0 U/L; p = 0.001). A total of 23.1% of patients with CLD (n = 15/65) developed cholestatic liver failure (cholestasis plus bilirubin ≥6 mg/dl) during COVID‐19, and 15.4% of patients (n = 10/65) developed SSC. SSC was significantly more frequent among patients with CLD and COVID‐19 than in patients with CLD and non–COVID‐19 pneumonia (p = 0.040). COVID‐19–associated SSC occurred predominantly in patients with NAFLD/NASH and metabolic risk factors. A total of 26.3% (n = 5/19) of patients with ACLD experienced hepatic decompensation after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Conclusions

About 20% of patients with CLD develop progressive cholestasis after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Patients with NAFLD/NASH and metabolic risk factors are at particular risk for developing cholestatic liver failure and/or SSC after COVID‐19.
Organoids and regenerative hepatology
Authors: Jalan‐Sakrikar Nidhi , Brevini Teresa , Huebert Robert C. , Sampaziotis Fotios
Published: May 2022

The burden of liver diseases is increasing worldwide, with liver transplantation remaining the only treatment option for end‐stage liver disease. Regenerative medicine holds great potential as a therapeutic alternative, aiming to repair or replace damaged liver tissue with healthy functional cells. The properties of the cells used are critical for the efficacy of this approach. The advent of liver organoids has not only offered new insights into human physiology and pathophysiology, but also provided an optimal source of cells for regenerative medicine and translational applications. Here, we discuss various historical aspects of 3D organoid culture, how it has been applied to the hepatobiliary system, and how organoid technology intersects with the emerging global field of liver regenerative medicine. We outline the hepatocyte, cholangiocyte, and nonparenchymal organoids systems available and discuss their advantages and limitations for regenerative medicine as well as future directions.
Quaternary nanoparticles enable sustained release of bortezomib for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Ling , Zhang Yicheng , Zhou Yang , Hu Haijie , Hu Yizong , Georgiades Christos , Mao Hai‐Quan , Selaru Florin M.
Published: May 2022

Background and Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the third leading cause of cancer‐related mortality in the world. Over the past two decades, there has been minimal improvement in therapies as well as clinical outcomes for patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC)‐B. These patients are treated with local interventions, including transarterial chemoembolization. Current methodologies only allow sustained intratumoral release measured in hours. Methodologies to allow sustained local release of the drug cargo over days to weeks are acutely needed. We hypothesize that tumor response as well as outcomes of patients with BCLC‐B can be improved through utilization of a highly cytotoxic agent delivered with a sustained release platform.

Approach and Results

High‐throughput drug screening across 40 HCC patient‐derived organoids identified bortezomib (BTZ) as a highly cytotoxic small molecule for HCC. We designed and manufactured sustained release BTZ nanoparticles (BTZ‐NP) using a flash nanocomplexation/nanoprecipitation process. We quantified the release profile and tested the anti‐tumoral effects in vivo. The BTZ‐NP formulation demonstrated a sustained release of BTZ of 30 days. This BTZ‐NP formulation was highly effective in controlling tumor size and improved survival in vivo in three animal models of HCC, including when delivered via the hepatic artery, as we envision its delivery in patients. In addition, the BTZ‐NP formulation was superior to treatment with doxorubicin‐drug eluting beads.

Conclusions

The BTZ‐NP formulation provides a potent and safe treatment of HCC via a localized delivery approach. These results warrant additional preclinical studies to advance this technology to human clinical trials.
A nurse‐led Asthma Care Team transitioning patients from hospital to home improves asthma control: A pilot study exploring an alternative model of care
Authors: Jayaram Lata , Gillman Andrew , Casanelia Sue , Yee Valerie , Hocking Valerie , Wasgewatta Sanjiwika , Reid‐Price Lynnette , Botlero Roslin , Southcott Anne Marie
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Recurrent asthma admissions are frequent in our patients at a tertiary Australian hospital and are commonly related to poor health literacy and medication adherence. A need exists to improve these asthma self‐management skills within our current model of care, especially during the vulnerable postdischarge period.

Aim

To examine if the addition of a nurse‐led Asthma Care Transition Team (ACTT) compared with usual care alone (UC) (1) improves asthma control at 12 weeks posthospital discharge; the number of patients using a Written Action Plan (WAP), compliance with inhaler therapy at 12 weeks, and readmission rates at 6 months.

Methods

Adults admitted with asthma were randomised to either:UC: involving review of asthma medication and self‐management skills by the ward team prior to discharge; a standard 6‐week post discharge clinic visit and a 12‐week study visit where an independent assessor assessed outcomes; orACTT: In addition to UC, involved ACTT nurse‐led review at 1 week and 6 weeks. Key aspects included a pre defined, structured review reinforcing education and self‐management skills, and telephone support during working hours.

Result

Sixty participants (UC and ACTT) had similar baseline characteristics: Mean age: 41 vs 38 years, asthma duration: 20 vs 18 years, baseline Asthma Control Questionnaire 3.1 vs 3.4. At 12 weeks Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) improved significantly in both groups but more so with ACTT; ACTT group had a higher uptake of WAP and a trend to reduced readmissions.

Conclusion and Practice Implication

A nurse‐led ACTT improves asthma control and self‐management skills following discharge and may lead to fewer readmissions.
High frequency volatility forecasting: A new approach using a hybrid ANN‐MC‐GARCH model
Authors: Jumoorty Aneessa Firdaus , Thoplan Ruben , Narsoo Jason
Published: May 2022

Risk permeates more and more financial markets around the world. It is an essential element that all financial market actors attempt to model and manage. This paper proposes a novel model that improves the predictive accuracy of high frequency volatility forecasts. The ANN‐MC‐GARCH model is therefore developed in this research. The hybrid model enhances the MC‐GARCH conditional variance model by including endogenous market variables in a feed forward network which models volatility in terms of past disturbances and variances. The forecasting accuracy of the novel ANN‐MC‐GARCH is evaluated against the classical MC‐GARCH model. The empirical investigation employs the 1‐min high frequency observations of four exchange rates (USD/EUR, USD/GBP, USD/JPY & AUD/JPY), three market indices (France 40, UK 100 & USA 500) and two metal commodity indices (Spot Gold & Spot Silver). The backtesting method employs the RMSE and MAE performance metrics, the out‐of‐sample , the Diebold‐Mariano test and the Model Confidence Set (MCS) procedure. The empirical findings show that the hybrid model is superior to the MC‐GARCH model for the nine datasets.
Transvesicoscopic ureteral reimplantation and ureteroscopy for management of primary obstructed non‐refluxing megaureter with ureteral calculus
Authors: Kato Taiki , Mizuno Kentaro , Matsumoto Daisuke , Nishio Hidenori , Nakane Akihiro , Kurokawa Satoshi , Kamisawa Hideyuki , Maruyama Tetsuji , Yasui Takahiro , Hayashi Yutaro
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Primary obstructed non‐refluxing megaureter, a type of congenitally dilated ureter, often resolves spontaneously. Surgery may be indicated in symptomatic cases; however, there are no reports of transvesicoscopic ureteral implantation and ureteroscopy for ureteral stones. Therefore, we describe the treatment of primary obstructed non‐refluxing megaureter and ureteral calculi using this technique.

Case presentation

A 6‐year‐old Japanese girl was referred for abdominal pain and gross hematuria due to right megaureter with multiple stones in the renal lower‐pole calyces and ureter. She was diagnosed with primary obstructed non‐refluxing megaureter and ureterovesical junction obstruction. The stones were removed using mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotomy and transvesicoureteroscopic surgery, respectively. A narrow segment of the right ureter was cut, and transvesicoscopic ureteral plication and reimplantation were performed. The procedures were successful without postoperative complications.

Conclusion

Transvesicoscopic ureteral reimplantation with ureteroscopy may be a safe, effective and minimally invasive surgical option for ureterovesical junction obstruction with ureteral stones.
Pharmacist's role in reducing medication‐related racial disparities in African American patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Gray Julie , Hillman Lisa A. , Vivian Eva , St. Peter Wendy L.
Published: May 2022

Racial/ethnic disparities in chronic kidney disease have been well established. African Americans experience faster progression to end‐stage kidney disease and a higher prevalence of kidney‐related diseases due to social determinants of health and systemic racism. As the most accessible health care professionals, pharmacists have a responsibility to diminish racial health disparities by putting efforts into leading diversity initiatives, committees, task forces, and community outreach events. To effectively engage African American communities, pharmacists must first understand the historical context of distrust in health care, kidney‐related health and medication‐related disparities experienced by African Americans, and how socioeconomic deprivation impacts the progression of kidney disease. In this article, we review available literature pertaining to these topics and give suggestions on what pharmacists can do to help reduce health care disparities in African Americans with kidney disease and to build trust with individuals and their communities to improve their health care outcomes.
Hybrid white organic light‐emitting diodes based on platinum complex
Authors: Lee Jian Haur , Chen Chin‐Ti
Published: May 2022

This review article surveys the hybrid white organic light‐emitting diodes (WOLEDs) based on phosphorescent platinum complexes and fluorescence blue emitters developed in the last 20 years. Emission, either photoluminescence (PL) or electroluminescence (EL), properties of the materials, and the evolution of the configuration of devices in achieving the high performance WOLEDs are elaborated in the article.
Efficacy of autoantibodies combined with tumor markers in the detection of lung cancer
Authors: Mu Yinyu , Li Jing , Xie Fuyi , Xu Lin , Xu Guodong
Published: May 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to explore the detection value of seven autoantibodies (TAAbs): p53, PGP9.5, SOX2, GBU4‐5, MAGE A1, CAGE, and GAGE7 and three tumor markers: CYFRA21‐1, NSE, and SCCA in the diagnosis of lung cancer.

Methods

ELISA was used to detect the levels of the TAAbs, and chemiluminescence immunoassay was used to test the levels of the tumor markers. The diagnostic efficacy of the TAAbs combined with the tumor markers for lung cancer was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

The positive rate of the combined detection of seven TAAbs and three tumor markers in lung cancer (37.8%) was higher than that in other three groups. The positive rates of SOX2, GAGE7, MAGE A1, CAGE, CYFRA21‐1, and SCCA had differences among the four groups. Compared with the benign lung disease group, only GAGE7, CYFRA21‐1, and SCCA differed among the groups. The combined sensitivity of the TAAbs was 29.07% (AUC, 0.594), the combined sensitivity of all the markers was 37.76% (AUC, 0.660 [p < 0.05]), and Youden's index was 0.196. In the lung cancer group, CYFRA21‐1 had a significant difference in age and sex, and SOX2, MAGE A1, CYFRA21‐1, NSE, and SCCA were significantly different in pathological type and TNM. In contrast, p53 and GBU4‐5 showed no significant differences in age, sex, pathological type, and TNM.

Conclusions

The combined detection of seven TAAbs and three tumor markers could be useful in early diagnosis of lung cancer.
Analytical performances of a glycated albumin assay that is traceable to standard reference materials and reference range determination
Authors: Tao Xinran , Koguma Ryosuke , Nagai Yoko , Kohzuma Takuji
Published: May 2022

Background

Glycated albumin (GA) is an intermediate‐term marker for monitoring glycemic control (preceding 2–3 weeks) in patients with diabetes mellitus. We evaluated the performance of Lucica Glycated Albumin‐L, a new GA assay that is traceable to standard reference materials and determined the reference range in healthy subjects without diabetes.

Methods

The performance and reference range studies were conducted in accordance with Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) Guidelines. The traceability was established using reference material recommended by the Japan Society of Clinical Chemistry (JSCC).

Results

The coefficient of variation (CV) of overall repeatability, within‐laboratory precision, and overall reproducibility values of GA values were not more than 2.6%, 3.3%, and 1.6%, respectively, among laboratories. The GA values showed good linearity from 173 to 979 mmol/mol (9.4%–54.9%) across the assay range. The GA reference range in 262 healthy subjects was between 183 and 259 mmol/mol (9.9%–14.2%) while that of subjects with diabetes was 217–585 mmol/mol (11.8–32.6%). The reagent was stable for 2 months on the bench at room temperature. The limits of blank, detection, and qualification were 6.9, 7.9, and 9.7 μmol/L for GA concentration, and 3.8, 7.0, and 21.8 μmol/L for albumin concentration, respectively. Hemoglobin slightly affected the assay, while other classical interfering substances had no significant impact.

Conclusions

The present GA assay shows comparable performance to current clinical assays and could be used for intermediate‐term monitoring of glycemic control in diabetes patients.
Ethanol dehydration performance of three types of commercial‐grade zeolite permselective membranes
Authors: Vane Leland , Alvarez Franklin , Namboodiri Vasudevan , Abar Michael
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Many organic solvents form difficult‐to‐separate mixtures with water and have an affinity for water, making drying a potential reuse prerequisite. Pervaporation (PV) and vapor permeation (VP) membrane technologies hold promise for energy‐efficient solvent drying. Several water‐selective membrane materials are commercially available, but performance data is limited, particularly for two recently commercialized membrane materials: chabazite (CHA) and T‐type zeolites. In this work, commercial‐grade samples of CHA and T‐type membranes, along with a NaA zeolite membrane, were evaluated for the removal of water from ethanol.

RESULTS

The CHA sample had the highest initial PV water permeance (6820 GPU) and water permselectivity (3430) with 5 wt% water in ethanol at 50 °C. Initial NaA membrane performance was slightly lower (6060 GPU and 3260), while the T‐type membrane had the lowest initial permeance and selectivity (4260 GPU and 1090). Performance declined over time, most notably for the NaA membrane, for which water permeance fell over 50% through 39 days of testing. The T‐type membrane exhibited the steadiest PV water permeance, but the most variable ethanol permeance.

CONCLUSION

The PV performance of the three membranes largely overlapped the predicted range for T‐type membranes. That performance generally exceeds the anticipated ethanol drying performance of non‐zeolitic PV membranes but is less than that predicted for NaA and CHA membranes. The present CHA membrane results, along with other recent reports, refine earlier predictions of the ethanol dehydration performance of that type of zeolite. The changing performance with time should be understood to properly design a solvent dehydration system. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
The impact of obesity‐related neuroinflammation on postpartum depression: A narrative review
Authors: da Cruz Kenia Lourdes de Oliveira , Salla Daniele Hendler , de Oliveira Mariana Pacheco , da Silva Larissa Espindola , Dela Vedova Larissa Marques , Mendes Talita Farias , Bressan Catarina Barbosa Chaves , Costa Ana Beatriz , da Silva Mariella Reinol , Réus Gislaine Zilli , de Mello Aline Haas , Rezin Gislaine Tezza
Published: May 2022

Obesity is currently one of the most serious health problems, affecting 13% of the world's adult population. Obesity is characterized by persistent low‐grade chronic inflammation that assumes systemic proportions and triggers several associated metabolic diseases. Furthermore, obesity has been associated with an increased occurrence of central disorders such as impaired cognitive function, reward system dysfunction, and depression. In summary, there is a quantitative reduction in the release of neurotransmitters in depression. Postsynaptic cells capture lower concentrations of neurotransmitters, which leads to a functional reduction in the central nervous system (CNS). Globally, approximately 15–65% of women experience depressive symptoms during pregnancy, depending on their location. Depressive symptoms persist in some women, leading to postpartum depression (PPD). Thus, obesity may be considered a risk factor for PPD development. This study aimed to synthesize studies on the impact of obesity‐related neuroinflammation and PPD. We conducted a narrative review of the relevant literature. The search was performed in electronic databases, specifically PubMed, selecting articles in English published from 2014 to 2021 using the narrative review methodology.
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition influences fibroblast phenotype in colorectal cancer by altering miR‐200 levels in extracellular vesicles
Authors: Bhome Rahul , Emaduddin Muhammad , James Victoria , House Louise M. , Thirdborough Stephen M. , Mellone Massimiliano , Tulkens Joeri , Primrose John N. , Thomas Gareth J. , De Wever Olivier , Mirnezami Alex H. , Sayan A. Emre
Published: May 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) with a mesenchymal gene expression signature has the greatest propensity for distant metastasis and is characterised by the accumulation of cancer‐associated fibroblasts in the stroma. We investigated whether the epithelial to mesenchymal transition status of CRC cells influences fibroblast phenotype, with a focus on the transfer of extracellular vesicles (EVs), as a controlled means of cell–cell communication. Epithelial CRC EVs suppressed TGF‐β‐driven myofibroblast differentiation, whereas mesenchymal CRC EVs did not. This was driven by miR‐200 (miR‐200a/b/c, ‐141), which was enriched in epithelial CRC EVs and transferred to recipient fibroblasts. Ectopic miR‐200 expression or ZEB1 knockdown, in fibroblasts, similarly suppressed myofibroblast differentiation. Supporting these findings, there was a strong negative correlation between miR‐200 and myofibroblastic markers in a cohort of CRC patients in the TCGA dataset. This was replicated in mice, by co‐injecting epithelial or mesenchymal CRC cells with fibroblasts and analysing stromal markers of myofibroblastic phenotype. Fibroblasts from epithelial tumours contained more miR‐200 and expressed less ACTA2 and FN1 than those from mesenchymal tumours. As such, these data provide a new mechanism for the development of fibroblast heterogeneity in CRC, through EV‐mediated transfer of miRNAs, and provide an explanation as to why CRC tumours with greater metastatic potential are CAF rich.
Suppression of TGF‐β/Smad2 signaling by GW788388 enhances DENV‐2 clearance in macrophages
Authors: Teixeira Gabrielly Sbano , Andrade Audrien Alves , Torres Lauana Ribas , Couto‐Lima Dinair , Moreira Otacilio C. , Abreu Rayane , Waghabi Mariana Caldas , de Souza Elen Mello
Published: May 2022

Dengue fever, caused by the dengue virus (DENV‐1, −2, −3, and −4), affects millions of people in the tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Severe dengue is correlated with high viraemia and cytokine storm, such as high levels of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) in the patient's serum. Here, the TGF‐β1 signaling was investigated in the context of in vitro viral clearance. Macrophages were infected with DENV‐2 at MOI 5 and treated with the TGF‐β receptor 1 and 2 inhibitor, GW788388. TGF‐β1 expression, signal transduction and viral load were evaluated 48 h after DENV‐2 infection by enzyme‐linked immunoassay, immunofluorescence, and RT‐qPCR assays. Total TGF‐β1 level was reduced in 15% after DENV‐2 infection, but the secretion of its biologically active form increased threefold during infection, which was followed by the phosphorylation of Smad2 protein. Phosphorylation of Smad2 was reduced by treatment with GW788388 and it was correlated with reduced cytokine production. Importantly, treatment led to a dose‐dependent reduction in viral load, ranging from 6.6 × 105 RNA copies/ml in untreated cultures to 2.3 × 103 RNA copies/ml in cultures treated with 2 ng/ml of GW788388. The anti‐TGF‐β1 antibody treatment also induced a significant reduction in viral load to 1.6 × 103 RNA copies/ml. On the other hand, the addition of recombinant TGF‐β1 in infected cultures promoted an increase in viral load to 7.0 × 106 RNA copies/ml. These results support that TGF‐β1 plays a significant role in DENV‐2 replication into macrophages and suggest that targeting TGF‐β1 may represent an alternative therapeutic strategy to be explored in dengue infection.
Performance assessment of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 models in tropical South America using TOPSIS‐based method
Authors: da Silva Maria Leidinice , de Oliveira Cristiano Prestrelo , de Araújo João Medeiros , Silva Cláudio Moisés Santos e
Published: May 2022

The use if the general circulation model (GCM) as a boundary condition for the dynamic regionalization process, without robust technical criteria, is one of the problems responsible for increasing the uncertainties of simulations and projections of climate scenarios, mainly affecting the observed trends and consequently the representation of future trends. Based on this premise, the present study evaluated the historical ability of 30 models that make up phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project using the Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. The meteorological variables used in this assessment were precipitation and near‐surface air temperature from 1975 to 2005 in the southern sectors of the Amazon Basin (SAMZ), Eastern Northeast Brazil (ENEB), and the intersection area between these regions, called MATOPIBA, was used to select the best GCM. The annual cycle, Taylor diagram and TOPSIS method were used as metrics of similarity between the models and the reference dataset. In general, the models simulated the temperature more accurately than the precipitation, with lower dispersions. According to the TOPSIS, over SAMZ, the HadGEM2‐ES (MIROC5) model was ranked with greater (less) ability to represent precipitation. In turn, for temperature the ensmean_cmip5 (IPSL‐CM5A‐MR) was the best (worst). Over ENEB, the model that showed the greatest (lowest) ability to simulate precipitation was CSIRO‐ACESS1.0 (HadGEM2‐AO). For temperature, the NorESM‐ME model (INMCM4) was ranked first (last). Over MATOPIBA, the CSIRO‐ACESS1.0 (NorESM‐ME) model was selected as having the best performance and the MPI‐ESM‐LR (MPI‐ESM‐LR) as the worst performance when representing precipitation (temperature). The similarities and discrepancies in the capacity of the GCM presented in the different metrics covered in this study can assist in the selection of more appropriate climate models in other regions for future studies of climate change.
In‐situ sorbent formation for the extraction of pesticides from honey
Authors: Nemati Mahboob , Altunay Nail , Tuzen Mustafa , Farajzadeh Mir Ali , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2022

An organic polymer was re‐precipitated in solution to use as an adsorbent in dispersive solid‐phase extraction of some pesticides from honey samples prior to their determination by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. In this approach, different deep eutectic solvents were prepared using lysine and their ability in elution of the analytes from the adsorbent surface was tested. A diluted honey solution was transferred into a glass test tube and then a solution of polystyrene dissolved in dimethylformamide was injected into the solution. By doing this, polystyrene is re‐precipitated in the solution and dispersed in whole parts of it as many tiny particles. Then the mixture was centrifuged and the adsorbed analytes on the particles were eluted using a proper hydrophilic deep eutectic solvent. The central composite design approach was used for the optimization of effective parameters. The limits of detection and quantification were in the ranges of 0.06–0.20 and 0.22–0.69 ng/g, respectively. The calibration curves obtained by matrix‐matched standard solutions were linear in the range of 0.69–500 ng/g with a coefficient of determinations ≥0.9962. The method provided high extraction recoveries (70–99%) and enrichment factors (140–198), and an acceptable precision (relative standard deviations ≤7.1%).
Does corporate governance moderate the relationship between intellectual capital and firm's performance?
Authors: Van Loan Thi Hong , Vo Duc Hong , Hoang Hien Thi Thu , Tran Ngoc Phu
Published: May 2022

Previous studies examined the relationship between intellectual capital and a firm's performance. However, the moderating role of corporate governance—a fundamental factor leading to improved firm performance and increased intellectual capital accumulation—has largely been ignored, particularly in an emerging market such as Vietnam. As such, this study examines the moderating role of corporate governance on the intellectual capital–performance nexus in Vietnam. This study uses a sample of 45 listed firms in Vietnam from 2011 to 2018. The generalized method of moments (GMM) technique is utilized in this paper to enhance the robustness of the findings. The modified value‐added intellectual coefficient (MVAIC) model is used to measure intellectual capital. A firm's performance is proxied by both returns on assets and equity. Our results indicate that intellectual capital components such as capital employed efficiency, human capital efficiency and structural capital efficiency provide a significant and positive effect on a firm's performance. In addition, the results reveal that the inclusion of corporate governance as a moderating factor affects the relationship between intellectual capital and a firm's performance in Vietnam. Findings from this paper provide a valuable framework and implications for executives and policymakers in creating and managing intellectual capital within the Vietnamese context. Besides, improving corporate governance is critical to improving intellectual capital accumulation. To the authors' best knowledge, our literature review indicates that this is the first empirical study that examines the relationship between intellectual capital and a firm's performance using corporate governance as a moderating factor in Vietnam.
Management and outcome of parotid mucoepidermoid carcinoma by histological grade: A 21‐year review
Authors: Taniuchi Masataka , Kawata Ryo , Terada Tetsuya , Higashino Masaaki , Nishimura Hiromi , Kurisu Yoshitaka , Kuwabara Hiroko , Hirose Yoshinobu
Published: May 2022

Objective

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most common malignancy of the parotid gland, but the outcome depends on the histological grade. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate MEC on the basis of histological grade.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of data from patients whose initial treatment for MEC of the parotid gland was performed at our department between 1999 and 2021. We examined the association between the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) grade and outcome.

Results

The AFIP grades were as follows: low, 26 cases; intermediate, 9 cases; and high, 31 cases. About 50% of cases were correctly diagnosed as malignant, and both grade and histology were accurately determined by fine‐needle aspiration cytology in 20% of cases. The 5‐year disease‐free survival rate was 95.5% and 53.8% in the low‐/intermediate‐ and high‐grade cases, respectively. In the high‐grade group, cases with recurrence were found to have a higher rate of lymph nodes metastasis than cases without recurrence. Furthermore, in this high‐grade group, total sacrifice of the facial nerve did not reduce local recurrence. However, radical resection in the cases without tumor invasion to the nerve has decreased the local recurrence rate. The CRTC1‐MAML2 fusion gene was expressed in 42.3% of low‐/intermediate‐ and 14.3% of high‐grade cases.

Conclusions

The survival rate in MEC was quite different between the low‐/intermediate‐ and high‐grade cases. However, the rate of correct assessment of the grade by fine‐needle aspiration cytology was poor. In high‐grade cases, total sacrifice of the facial nerve may improve the rate of local recurrence in cases without invasion of the main trunk of the nerve. Expression of the CRTC1‐MAML2 fusion gene could be helpful in not only the assessment of grade but the prediction of recurrence.

Level of Evidence

4
A framework for understanding, designing, developing and evaluating learning health systems
Authors: Foley Tom , Vale Luke
Published: May 2022

Introduction

A Learning Health System is not a technical project. It is the evolution of an existing health system into one capable of learning from every patient. This paper outlines a recently published framework intended to aid the understanding, design, development and evaluation of Learning Health Systems.

Methods

This work extended an existing repository of Learning Health System evidence, adding five more workshops. The total was subjected to thematic analysis, yielding a framework of elements important to understanding, designing, developing and evaluating Learning Health Systems. Purposeful literature reviews were conducted on each element. The findings were revised following a review by a group of international experts.

Results

The resulting framework was arranged around four questions:

What is our rationale for developing a Learning Health System?

There can be many reasons for developing a Learning Health System. Understanding these will guide its development.

What sources of complexity exist at the system and the intervention level?

An understanding of complexity is central to making Learning Health Systems work. The non‐adoption, abandonment, scale‐up, spread and sustainability framework was utilised to help understand and manage it.

What strategic approaches to change do we need to consider?

A range of strategic issues must be addressed to enable successful change in a Learning Health System. These include, strategy, organisational structure, culture, workforce, implementation science, behaviour change, co‐design and evaluation.

What technical building blocks will we need?

A Learning Health System must capture data from practice, turn it into knowledge and apply it back into practice. There are many methods to achieve this and a range of platforms to help.

Discussion

The results form a framework for understanding, designing, developing and evaluating Learning Health Systems at any scale.

Conclusion

It is hoped that this framework will evolve with use and feedback.
Use of preprocurement biopsy in donation after circulatory death liver transplantation
Authors: Bolognese Alexandra C. , Foley David P. , Sparks Carrie J. , Schneider Adam K. , D'Alessandro Anthony M. , Neidlinger Nikole A.
Published: May 2022

We perform routine preprocurement image‐guided percutaneous liver biopsies on potential donation after circulatory death (DCD) liver donors. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of preprocurement liver biopsy on the use of livers from DCD donors. We retrospectively reviewed demographics, liver histology, and disposition of DCD liver donors within a single organ procurement organization (OPO) who underwent preprocurement liver biopsy from January 2000 through December 2019. A total of 212 potential donors underwent prerecovery biopsy. No donors were lost as a result of complications of biopsy. Of these, 183 (86.3%) had acceptable biopsies: 146 (79.8%) were successfully transplanted and 37 (20.2%) were deemed not suitable for transplant. In contrast, of 120 DCD livers recovered with the intent to transplant that were not biopsied prior to recovery, 59 (49.2%) were successfully transplanted, and 61 (50.8%) were deemed not suitable for transplant. A total of 14 donors were ruled out for transplant based on prerecovery histology. Successfully transplanted livers that underwent preprocurement biopsy were more likely to come from donors aged older than 50 years or with body mass index more than 30 kg/m2 compared with successfully transplanted livers without a prerecovery biopsy. Biopsy excluded 6.6% of DCD donor livers for transplant prior to recovery and facilitated the successful recovery and transplant of two‐thirds of potential DCD donor livers. Livers intended for transplant at the time of recovery that did not undergo preprocurement biopsy were more likely to not be recovered or to be discarded. Preprocurement biopsy provides additional histologic information prior to deploying resources and helps to identify usable livers that might otherwise be declined for transplant. Consideration of liver biopsy in this group benefits OPOs and transplant centers by maximizing organ use and optimizing resource deployment.
3D‐Printed Electroactive Hydrogel Architectures with Sub‐100 µm Resolution Promote Myoblast Viability
Authors: Keate Rebecca L. , Tropp Joshua , Collins Caralyn P. , Ware Henry Oliver T. , Petty Anthony J. , Ameer Guillermo A. , Sun Cheng , Rivnay Jonathan
Published: May 2022

3D‐printed hydrogel scaffolds functionalized with conductive polymers have demonstrated significant potential in regenerative applications for their structural tunability, physiochemical compatibility, and electroactivity. Controllably generating conductive hydrogels with fine features, however, has proven challenging. Here, micro‐continuous liquid interface production (μCLIP) method is utilized to 3D print poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) hydrogels. With a unique in‐situ polymerization approach, a sulfonated monomer is first incorporated into the hydrogel matrix and subsequently polymerized into a conjugated polyelectrolyte, poly(4‐(2,3‐dihydro‐thieno[3,4‐b][1,4]dioxin‐2‐ylmethoxy)‐butane‐1 sulfonic acid sodium salt (PEDOT‐S). Rod structures are fabricated at different crosslinking levels to investigate PEDOT‐S incorporation and its effect on bulk hydrogel electronic and mechanical properties. After demonstrating that PEDOT‐S does not significantly compromise the structures of the bulk material, pHEMA scaffolds are fabricated via μCLIP with features smaller than 100 µm. Scaffold characterization confirms PEDOT‐S incorporation bolstered conductivity while lowering overall modulus. Finally, C2C12 myoblasts are seeded on PEDOT‐pHEMA structures to verify cytocompatibility and the potential of this material in future regenerative applications. PEDOT‐pHEMA scaffolds promote increased cell viability relative to their non‐conductive counterparts and differentially influence cell organization. Taken together, this study presents a promising new approach for fabricating complex conductive hydrogel structures for regenerative applications.
Serum Inflammatory Markers and Progression of Nonmotor Symptoms in Early Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Kim Ryul , Kim Han‐Joon , Shin Jung Hwan , Lee Chan Young , Jeon Seung Ho , Jeon Beomseok
Published: May 2022

Background

The influence of peripheral inflammation on nonmotor symptoms (NMSs) in Parkinson's disease (PD) remains unclear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore whether serum inflammatory marker profiles are associated with the progression of NMSs in early PD.

Methods

We included 45 patients with early PD and 20 healthy control subjects. Six inflammatory markers, including interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐10, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, were measured. NMSs were assessed using the Non‐Motor Symptoms Scale, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Composite Autonomic Symptom Score‐31 at baseline and after 3 years.

Results

Principal component (PC) analysis showed that only PC3 scores, mainly loaded by IL‐2 and IL‐6, were significantly elevated in the PD group compared with the control group. Higher PC3 scores in the PD group were associated with faster progression of Non‐Motor Symptoms Scale total and mood/apathy domain scores. There were no significant associations of PC scores with Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Composite Autonomic Symptom Score‐31 score changes.

Conclusions

Peripheral inflammation may be related to the evolution of NMSs, particularly mood symptoms, in the early stages of PD. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Mental health groups, state leaders push to restore Wit decision following reversal
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2022

Less than two weeks ago, a whirlwind of activity occurred among advocates and lawmakers around efforts to protect mental health and substance use disorder coverage. The American Psychological Association (APA), the National Association for Behavioral Healthcare, the Federation of American Hospitals, the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers, and state attorneys general representing Connecticut, Illinois and Rhode Island have all taken action and submitted amicus briefs in order to reverse an overturned ruling in the landmark Wit v. United Behavioral Health (UBH) case.
Report: Medicaid an essential tool for averting youth homelessness
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: May 2022

States can do more to leverage Medicaid to avoid adverse outcomes for youths with mental health needs who are exiting institutional care, suggests a new report from consulting firm Manatt Health. An author of the report told MHW that states also can accomplish much by using Medicaid to shore up community‐based services that, in most cases, can replace the need for an institutional stay.
MH diagnosis can lead to dementia in people at younger ages
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2022

Mental disorders early in life increase the risk for developing dementia, and developing it at a younger age, according to a study funded in part by the National Institutes of Health and published in JAMA Psychiatry. Researchers followed more than one million residents of New Zealand over 30 years in this longitudinal study.
MH, suicide prevention leaders address 988 implementation
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2022

The countdown to the new national crisis response 988 implementation system is fast approaching, and with it, the need for more awareness and education, a pivotal role that will fall on the media, according to the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention (Action Alliance) and the Education Development Center, organizers of a press call for leaders and experts to respond to questions.
Psychiatrists collaborate with YouTube to develop MH content
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2022

Noting that for the better part of a decade, health‐related searches on social media platforms have increased exponentially, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) announced May 18 its collaboration with YouTube to develop fact‐based mental health content. YouTube has more than two billion monthly logged‐in users, a news release stated. Every day, people watch more than a billion hours of video and generate billions of views, APA officials said.