bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MRI‐based measurement of in vivo disc mechanics in a young population due to flexion, extension, and diurnal loading
Authors: Meadows Kyle D. , Peloquin John M. , Newman Harrah R. , Cauchy Peter J. K. , Vresilovic Edward J. , Elliott Dawn M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration is often implicated in low back pain; however, discs with structural degeneration often do not cause pain. It may be that disc mechanics can provide better diagnosis and identification of the pain source. In cadaveric testing, the degenerated disc has altered mechanics, but in vivo, disc mechanics remain unknown. To measure in vivo disc mechanics, noninvasive methods must be developed to apply and measure physiological deformations.

Aim

Thus, this study aimed to develop methods to measure disc mechanical function via noninvasive MRI during flexion and extension and after diurnal loading in a young population. This data will serve as baseline disc mechanics to later compare across ages and in patients.

Materials & Methods

To accomplish this, subjects were imaged in the morning in a reference supine position, in flexion, in extension, and at the end of the day in a supine position. Disc deformations and vertebral motions were used to quantify disc axial strain, changes in wedge angle, and anterior–posterior (A‐P) shear displacement. T2 weighted MRI was also used to evaluate disc degeneration via Pfirrmann grading and T2 time. All measures were then tested for effect of sex and disc level.

Results

We found that flexion and extension caused level‐dependent strains in the anterior and posterior of the disc, changes in wedge angle, and A‐P shear displacements. Flexion had higher magnitude changes overall. Diurnal loading did not cause level‐dependent strains but did cause small level‐dependent changes in wedge angle and A‐P shear displacements.

Discussion

Correlations between disc degeneration and mechanics were largest in flexion, likely due to the smaller contribution of the facet joints in this condition.

Conclusion

In summary, this study established methods to measure in vivo disc mechanical function via noninvasive MRI and established a baseline in a young population that may be compared to older subjects and clinical disorders in the future.
Comparison of two methods for ginsenosides quantitation
Authors: Moldoveanu Serban C. , Gan Huamin
Published: January 2023

The present study provides a comparison of two liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry methods for ginsenosides analysis. The two methods have the same liquid chromatography separation procedure, and both use tandem mass spectrometry detection. However, one method uses multiple reaction monitoring transitions commonly recommended in the literature starting with [M + Na]+ as the molecular ions and with detection of specific fragment ions from the molecules M, while the other is an original method using [M + Cs]+ as molecular ions and Cs+ as fragment ion. The method using [M + Cs]+ as molecular ion has a very high sensitivity allowing the measurement of concentrations in the injecting solutions as low as 4 ng/ml with peaks at this concentration showing signal to noise ratio of 20 or higher. The procedures were utilized for the measurement of eight ginsenosides (Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd, Re, Rf (S), Rg1, and Rg2), although the method using [M + Cs]+ has the potential for measuring other ginsenosides. As an application, the ginsenosides were measured in several types of ginseng root, several dietary supplements containing ginseng extracts, four energy drinks, and a sample of ashwagandha.
Clinical prognosis of surgical resection versus transarterial chemoembolization for single large hepatocellular carcinoma (≥5 cm): A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Hsieh Pei‐Min , Hsiao Pojen , Chen Yaw‐Sen , Yeh Jen‐Hao , Hung Chao‐Ming , Lin Hung‐Yu , Ma Ching‐Hou , Tang TaoQian , Huang Yu Wei , Cheng Pin‐Nan , Hsieh Kun‐Chou , Hu Kuang‐Chun , Bair Ming‐Jong , Lin Chih‐Wen
Published: January 2023

Favorable prognostic factors and therapeutic strategies are important for patients with single large hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This retrospective study aimed to investigate the prognostic factors in patients with single large (≥5 cm) HCC with Child‐Pugh (CP) class A patients and to recommend therapeutic strategies. Overall, 298 HCC patients with single and large (≥5 cm) tumors with CP class A, but without distant metastasis and macrovascular invasion were included, and their clinicopathological data, overall survival (OS), and progression‐free survival (PFS) were recorded. OS and PFS was analyzed by the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression analysis. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed. The 298 HCC patients were 79.2% male and median age of 64 years. For the initial treatment, surgical resection (SR) and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) was 50.8% and 49.2%, respectively. The OS and PFS were significantly higher in patients receiving SR than those receiving TACE before and after PSM. Furthermore, in multivariate analysis, cirrhosis (Hazard ratio [HR]: 2.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.35–3.03, p < 0.001, CP class A5/6 [HR: 4.01; 95% CI: 2.43–6.66, p < 0.001], and initial treatment [SR vs. TACE HR = 3.23; 95% CI: 2.13–5.01, p < 0.001]) remained significantly associated with mortality. Moreover, in multivariate analysis, CP class A5/6 (HR: 3.23; 95% CI: 1.89–5.88, p < 0.001), and initial treatment (Resection vs. TACE; HR = 4.17; 95% CI: 1.64–8.33, p = 0.039) remained significantly associated with recurrence. In conclusion, SR was associated with significantly higher OS and PFS rates than TACE before and after PSM for single large HCC patients.
Assessment of a new olfactometer for study of sensory ecology in small aquatic organisms
Authors: Vondriska Clayton , Sikkel Paul C.
Published: January 2023

All aquatic organisms rely on chemical stimuli at some point during their life cycles. These stimuli are typically associated with essential functions such as food‐, mate‐, or habitat‐finding, or predator avoidance. Historically, research on sensory ecology and behavior of aquatic organisms has been conducted using two‐channel choice flumes, which have many limitations when utilized on small organisms. Here, we describe functional features and results of pilot tests of an aquatic olfactometer, adapted from olfactometers used in studies on terrestrial arthropods, which eliminates these limitations. The initial implementation of this olfactometer is described. The structural integrity, hydrodynamics, and basic function of the olfactometer were tested and verified. The ability to clearly record the movements of a small organism within was also tested. Our experiments verify that the flow rate of water within the choice arena was accurate, water behaved as theorized in prior modeling, and chemical concentrations within each “zone” were distributed as expected based on computer simulations. We further show that video data could be obtained and analyzed using Ethovision XT to provide large amounts of raw data, including position, velocity, and acceleration, which can be used to investigate many potential questions associated with behavior. This olfactometer has the potential to become the new standard for research on chemotaxis and chemical ecology of small aquatic organisms.
Remarks on j−$j-$eigenfunctions of operators
Authors: Edmunds David E. , Lang Jan
Published: January 2023

The paper is largely concerned with the possibility of obtaining a series representation for a compact linear map T acting between Banach spaces. It is known that, using the notions of eigenfunctions and eigenvalues, such a representation is possible under certain conditions on T. Particular cases discussed include those in which T can be factorized through a Hilbert space, or has certain s‐numbers that are fast‐decaying. The notion of p‐compactness proves to be useful in this context; we give examples of maps that possess this property.
Asymptotic stability of rarefaction wave for a blood flow model
Authors: Wei Jing , Yao Huancheng , Zhu Changjiang
Published: January 2023

This paper is concerned with nonlinear stability of rarefaction wave to the Cauchy problem for a blood flow model, which describes the motion of blood through axi‐symmetric compliant vessels. Inspired by the stability analysis of classical
‐system, we show the solution of this typical model tends time‐asymptotically toward the rarefaction wave under some suitably small conditions and there are more difficulties in the proof due to the appearance of strong nonlinear terms regarding second‐order derivative of
with respect to the spatial variable
. The main result is proved by employing the elementary
energy methods. This is the first result regarding nonlinear stability of some nontrivial profiles (i.e., non‐constant function patterns) for the blood flow model.
A non‐homogeneous weakly damped Lamé system with time‐dependent delay
Authors: Dattori da Silva Paulo L. , Ma To Fu , Maravi‐Percca Edwin M. , Seminario‐Huertas Paulo N.
Published: January 2023

This paper is concerned with asymptotic stability of the Lamé system, which arises in isotropic elasticity and has remarkable application in seismology. The main feature is the well‐posedness and the energy decay when a time‐dependent delay competes with a frictional damping. Following recent literature for systems with time‐varying delay, our problem is written as a Cauchy problem with time‐dependent operators and apply the so called Kato's CD‐system method. To this regard, we present a simple argument for the needed stability to a family of time‐dependent semigroup generators.
Monte Carlo‐derived 99mTc uptake quantification with commercial planar MBI: Tumor and breast activity concentrations
Authors: Lopez Benjamin P. , Kappadath S. Cheenu
Published: January 2023

Background

Current molecular breast imaging (MBI) images are limited to qualitative evaluation, not absolute measurement, of 99mTc uptake in benign and malignant breast tissues.

Purpose

This work assesses the accuracy of previously‐published and newly‐proposed tumor and normal breast tissue 99mTc uptake MBI measurements using simulations of a commercial dual‐headed planar MBI system under typical clinical and acquisition protocols.

Methods

Quantification techniques were tested in over 4000 simulated acquisitions of spherical and ellipsoid tumors with clinically relevant uptake conditions using a validated Monte Carlo application of the GE Discovery NM750b system. The evaluated techniques consisted of four tumor total activity methodologies (two single‐detector‐based and two geometric‐mean‐based), two tumor MBI volume methodologies (diameter‐based and ROI‐based), and two normal tissue activity concentration methodologies (single‐detector‐based and geometric‐mean‐based). The most accurate of these techniques were then used to estimate tumor activity concentrations and tumor to normal tissue relative activity concentrations (RC).

Results

Single‐detector techniques for tumor total activity quantification achieved mean (standard deviation) relative errors of 0.2% (4.3%) and 1.6% (4.4%) when using the near and far detector images, respectively and were more accurate and precise than the measured 8.1% (5.8%) errors of a previously published geometric‐mean technique. Using these activity estimates and the true tumor volumes resulted in tumor activity concentration and RC errors within 10% of simulated values. The precision of tumor activity concentration and RC when using only MBI measurements were largely driven by the errors in estimating tumor MBI volume using planar images (± 30% inter‐quartile range).

Conclusions

Planar MBI images were shown to accurately and reliably be used to estimate tumor total activities and normal tissue activity concentrations in this simulation study. However, volumetric tumor uptake measurements (i.e., absolute and relative concentrations) are limited by inaccuracies in MBI volume estimation using two‐dimensional images, highlighting the need for either tomographic MBI acquisitions or anatomical volume estimates for accurate three‐dimensional tumor uptake estimates.
The role of occupational therapy in providing vocational rehabilitation for inflammatory arthritis: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Somerville Susan , Codd Yvonne , Gowran Rosemary Joan
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Inflammatory arthritis (IA) significantly impacts people's ability to continue in work roles, despite advances in medical management. Employment is acknowledged as important for health and wellbeing. Facilitating work participation and employment reduces social welfare dependence for income, minimising societal cost. Internationally, pathways and processes are developing to maintain people with acquired conditions in the workplace. Occupational Therapy supports this process, with its biopsychosocial approach, giving a framework to consider the complex dynamic of a person's vocational rehabilitation (VR) needs. A scoping review framework was chosen to explore the diverse VR process and emerging focus on Occupational Therapy's role in providing VR for the IA population.

Methods

The methodological framework for scoping reviews will be used to guide the process and structure of the scoping review. A search strategy will be implemented in all the major peer reviewed databases along with grey literature repositories for English language studies. Study selection will use the PRISMA‐ScR flow chart against an agreed eligibility criteria by two independent reviewers. Data extraction from the final selection will be mapped out using tables and a supporting descriptive review reflecting on the original scoping review aim and objectives completed.

Dissemination

Findings will be disseminated at all levels and in various formats to bring them to the attention of clinicians, researchers and policy makers as VR pathways are established and prioritised for the early IA population.
Comprehensive pelvic muscle assessment: Developing and testing a dual e‐Learning and simulation‐based training program
Authors: Newman Diane K. , Lowder Jerry L. , Meister Melanie , Low Lisa K. , Fitzgerald Colleen M. , Fok Cynthia S. , Geynisman‐Tan Julia , Lukacz Emily S. , Markland Alayne , Putnam Sara , Rudser Kyle , Smith Ariana L. , Miller Janis M. ,   the Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (PLUS) Research Consortium
Published: January 2023

Objective

The Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (PLUS) research consortium launched the RISE FOR HEALTH (RISE) national study of women's bladder health which includes annual surveys and an in‐person visit. For the in‐person exam, a standardized, replicable approach to conducting a pelvic muscle (PM) assessment was necessary. The process used to develop the training, the products, and group testing results from the education and training are described.

Methods

A comprehensive pelvic muscle assessment (CPMA) program was informed by literature view and expert opinion. Training materials were prepared for use on an electronicLearning (e‐Learning) platform. An in‐person hands‐on simulation and certification session was then designed. It included a performance checklist assessment for use by Clinical Trainers, who in collaboration with a gynecology teaching assistant, provided an audit and feedback process to determine Trainee competency.

Results

Five discrete components for CPMA training were developed as e‐Learning modules. These were: (1) overview of all the clinical measures and PM anatomy and examination assessments, (2) visual assessment for pronounced pelvic organ prolapse, (3) palpatory assessment of the pubovisceral muscle to estimate muscle integrity, (4) digital vaginal assessment to estimate strength, duration, symmetry during PM contraction, and (5) pressure palpation of both myofascial structures and PMs to assess for self‐report of pain. Seventeen Trainees completed the full CPMA training, all successfully meeting the a priori certification required pass rate of 85% on checklist assessment.

Conclusions

The RISE CPMA training program was successfully conducted to assure standardization of the PM assessment across the PLUS multicenter research sites. This approach can be used by researchers and healthcare professionals who desire a standardized approach to assess competency when performing this CPMA in the clinical or research setting.
Perceptual blindless in nutrition: We are in a critical time to be connected
Authors: Lanuza Fabian , Zamora‐Ros Raul , Petermann‐Rocha Fanny , Andrés‐Lacueva Cristina
Published: January 2023

Our health and well‐being are affected by our food systems. The new nutrition reality has been linked to complex food systems, interrelated with several pathways and determinants, including physical, socioeconomic, environmental, and ecological, and lately, has been strongly associated with population health, the increase in chronic diseases, and climate change. We briefly comment on four pillars, namely food environments, food security, food supply, and safety and nutritional epidemiology, all of which are key determinants of food systems. We overview some highlights, challenges, and methodologies with a view to advancing food and nutrition science as an integrated field of research. By modifying food systems, we are able to improve the aging and well‐being of populations and the health of the planet. Trusted science, nutritional education, new scientific‐public communication, integrated policy, investment, food availability, and cultural strategies are all essential for creating better food systems. Perceptual blindness in nutrition must be transformed.
Should we reduce routine surveillance imaging in pediatric germ cell tumors?
Authors: Terenziani Monica , Barretta Francesco , Gattuso Giovanna , Bisogno Gianni , Conte Massimo , Crocoli Alessandro , De Pasquale Maria Debora , Biasoni Davide , Spreafico Filippo , D'Angelo Paolo
Published: January 2023

This paper retrospectively investigated the site and the detection method of relapses in children and adolescents with malignant germ cell tumors enrolled in the TCGM‐AIEOP‐2004 Study and subsequently developed a relapse, in order to evaluate a possible reduction in radiological exposure during follow‐up. Including all malignant cases, serum tumor markers identified a relapse in more than 70% and, according to the selection criteria published by Children Oncology Group in 2018, in more than 90% of cases. These results confirm the importance of serum tumor markers as a relapse detection method, with possible reduction of radiology exams in specific subgroups.
Adequate diagnosis of the cause of Parkinsonism and treatment in an elderly patient with schizophrenia: A case report
Authors: Yoshioka Daisuke , Yamanashi Takehiko , Iwata Masaaki
Published: January 2023

Background

Parkinsonism is frequently observed in patients with schizophrenia, and most patients are diagnosed with drug‐induced parkinsonism. However, comorbidity with idiopathic Parkinson's disease or Parkinson‐plus syndrome is also possible. The pathophysiology and treatment for each of these are entirely different, thus an appropriate diagnosis is required. However, distinguishing them based on clinical symptoms alone is often difficult, and many cases are misdiagnosed. Additionally, Parkinsonism is frequently mistaken for negative symptoms.

Case Description

We report a case of 68‐year‐old woman diagnosed with schizophrenia, who was admitted to a welfare center. At approximately age 60, the patient experienced motivation reduction, a loss of appetite, and pain in the extremities. In her mid‐60s, tremor and muscle rigidity appeared; nuclear medicine testing was performed for a detailed examination, resulting in a diagnosis of levodopa‐responsive Parkinson's syndrome. Notably, the patient's parkinsonism and emotional symptoms, which had been considered negative symptoms thus far, improved with levodopa treatment.

Conclusion

This case report illustrates the importance of properly diagnosing the cause of parkinsonism in patients with schizophrenia.
Expanded carrier screening: What conditions should we screen for?
Authors: Goldberg James D. , Pierson Summer , Johansen Taber Katherine
Published: January 2023

Carrier screening tests reproductive couples for their risk of having children affected by serious monogenic conditions. Carrier screening has historically been offered for certain conditions in high‐risk populations. However, more recent evidence has shown that offering carrier screening to all patients, regardless of their ethnicity, more effectively and equitably identifies at‐risk couples. Coupled with technology that enables screening for a nearly unlimited number of conditions, this expanded carrier screening (ECS) approach is now supported by professional society guidelines. Despite recent recommendations by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics to screen all patients who are pregnant or considering pregnancy for 113 conditions, questions remain about what conditions should be included on a core ECS panel. Here, we briefly review the history of carrier screening and guidelines on criteria for panel design. We then suggest which of these criteria are most critical, as well as thresholds to identify which conditions meet these criteria. Based on these interpretations, we recommend a core panel of 64 conditions that would identify the vast majority of at‐risk couples. Widespread adoption of a core panel such as this would result in a marked improvement in the number of patients currently receiving comprehensive carrier screening.
Restrictive resuscitation in patients with sepsis and mortality: A systematic review and meta‐analysis with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Reynolds Paul M. , Stefanos Sylvia , MacLaren Robert
Published: January 2023

Study Objective

Although fluid resuscitation is recommended by the Society of Critical Care Medicine Surviving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines, risks of volume overload persist.The objective of this systematic review is to assess the effects of a restrictive fluid resuscitation approach in the septic patient both during and after the initial resuscitation period (30  ml/kg).

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis with trial sequential analysis (TSA) of randomized controlled trials was conducted. Two blinded reviewers independently assessed and included studies that evaluated adult patients with sepsis involving a comparator group with an effective restrictive fluid resuscitation approach. The primary outcome was mortality. Secondary outcomes included rates of acute kidney injury (AKI), renal replacement therapy (RRT), ventilator days, intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay (LOS), duration of vasopressor therapy, and limb (or digital) ischemia.

Setting

PubMed and Medline databases were queried for the search.

Patients

A total of eight trials in 2375 patients were included.

Intervention

Effective restrictive fluid resuscitation compared with standard of care.

Measurements and Main Results

The risk of bias was high in six studies and low in two studies, and all studies implemented fluid restriction after a 30‐ml/kg infusion of fluids. Fluid restriction did not significantly reduce mortality in all studies compared to usual care (37% vs. 40% with usual care; risk ratio [RR] 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76–1.06, p = 0.23, I2 = 24%) or by TSA findings. There were no significant differences in rates of AKI or RRT (5 studies), LOS in ICU (4 studies) or hospital (3 studies), duration of vasopressor therapy (6 studies), or incidence of limb or digital ischemia (3 studies). However, fluid restriction significantly reduced ventilator days as evaluated in seven studies (mean difference − 1.25 days, 95% CI −1.92 to −0.58  days, p = 0.0003, I2 = 90%).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that a restrictive resuscitation strategy in sepsis resulted in no difference in mortality but may reduce ventilator days. Larger randomized trials are required to determine the optimal management of fluids in patients with sepsis.
Extrusion for pharma applications: An update
Authors: Gallas Maël , Boulet Pascal , de Margerie Victoire
Published: January 2023

This paper aims to give an overview of our current research and development on hot‐melt extrusion (HME) for pharmaceutical formulation and drug delivery. Unfortunately, a large percentage of marketed drugs (40%) and those in the development pipeline (90%) are poorly water soluble. We use a few examples to show that solubility of APIs can be drastically improved by using HME to mix them with different biocompatible polymers and playing with the various process parameters (extrusion temperature, screw speed, screw configuration, etc.). The advantages of this technique are then presented as well as the further development needed to make this process fully industrial for pharmaceutical purposes.
Combination of size‐exclusion chromatography and ion exchange adsorption for improving the proteomic analysis of plasma‐derived extracellular vesicles
Authors: Wang Yaojie , Zhang Ying , Li Zhi , Wei Sisi , Chi Xiuping , Yan Xi , Lv Huilai , Zhao Libo , Zhao Lianmei
Published: January 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid membrane vesicles released by live cells that carry a variety of biomolecules, including nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. Recently, proteins in plasma‐derived EVs have emerged as novel biomarkers with essential functions in the diagnosis and prognosis of human diseases. However, the current methods of isolating EVs from plasma often lead to coisolated impurities in biological fluids. Therefore, before performing any research protocol, the process of extracting EVs from plasma for proteomic analysis must be optimized. In this study, two EV isolation strategies, size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and SEC combined with ion exchange adsorption (SEC + IEA), were compared in terms of the purity and quantity of protein in EVs. Our results demonstrated that, compared to single‐step SEC, SEC combined with IEA could produce plasma‐derived EVs with a higher purity by decreasing the abundance of lipoprotein. Additionally, with MS analysis, we demonstrated that the combination approach maintained the stability and improved the purity of EVs in many plasma samples. Furthermore, by combining SEC with IEA, more cancer‐associated proteins were detected in the plasma of various cancer samples.
Global profiling of protein lysine lactylation and potential target modified protein analysis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hong Han , Chen Xi , Wang Honggang , Gu Xiangqian , Yuan Yin , Zhang Zixiang
Published: January 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of primary liver cancer, often metastasizes to the lungs. The implications of lysine lactylation (Kla), a recently identified histone post‐translational modification (PTM), in the pathology of HCC remain unclear. Here, we report the first proteomic survey of this specific modification in HCC (with no metastasis during 3 years of follow‐up), normal liver tissues, and lung metastasis samples of HCC. Of the 2045 modification sites detected on 960 proteins, 1438 sites on 772 proteins contained quantitative information. Subsequently, we analyzed the differentially modified proteins among the different groups. Differentially lactylated proteins were found to be involved in several biological processes, including‐but not limited to‐amino acid metabolism, ribosomal protein synthesis, and fatty acid metabolism. In addition, we identified numerous highly valuable lactate‐modified proteins from the literature. Among them, we verified the lactate modification levels of the following two tumor‐related proteins and obtained similar results: USP14 and ABCF1. These two modified proteins will be further investigated in our future studies. This paper is the first report on the lactylome of HCC and it provides a reliable foundation for further research on Kla in HCC.
Relationship between enhancement of PEDOT:PSS conductivity by solvent treatment and PSS chain reorganization
Authors: Tounakti Chaima , Decorse Philippe , Kouki Fayçal , Lang Philippe
Published: January 2023

The treatment of water‐soluble PEDOT:PSS copolymer film by DMSO or DMF considerably enhances its electrical conductivity. The mechanism leading to a new molecular conformation in the PEDOT:PSS layer was investigated by in situ ATR, PM‐IRRAS and XPS spectroscopies. The release of PSS chains containing excess [Na+, (−Φ‐SO3−)‐] and (−Φ‐SO3H)‐] moieties by the solvent treatment and the implications of this process are discussed. By comparison with a NaPSS/HPSS adduct, the essential role of the conformational reorganization of the poly(styrene sulfonic/sulfonate) chains via hydrogen bonds between SO3H functions is demonstrated. Residual water molecules play a fundamental role both in the removal of excess sulfonates or sulfonic groups, the separation of the (Na, H, PSS) chains, which can then be extracted, and the establishment of the suitable PEDOT conformation.
Effects of the Jokela type of spinal muscular atrophy‐related G66V mutation on the structural ensemble characteristics of CHCHD10
Authors: Alici Hakan , Uversky Vladimir N. , Kang David E. , Woo Junga Alexa , Coskuner‐Weber Orkid
Published: January 2023

The G66V pathological variant of the coiled‐coil‐helix‐coiled‐coil‐helix domain‐containing protein 10 (CHCHD10), mitochondrial, plays a role in Jokela type spinal muscular atrophy. The wild‐type and G66V mutant‐type CHCHD10 proteins contain intrinsically disordered regions, and therefore, their structural ensemble studies have been experiencing difficulties using conventional tools. Here, we show our results regarding the first characterization of the structural ensemble characteristics of the G66V mutant form of CHCHD10 and the first comparison of these characteristics with the structural ensemble properties of wild‐type CHCHD10. We find that the structural properties, potential of mean force surfaces, and principal component analysis show stark differences between these two proteins. These results are important for a better pathology, biochemistry and structural biology understanding of CHCHD10 and its G66V genetic variant and it is likely that these reported structural properties are important for designing more efficient treatments for the Jokela type of spinal muscular atrophy disease.
A High‐Q Terahertz Metamaterials Absorber for Refractive Index Sensing
Authors: Bai Jinjun , Shen Pengyan , Wang Shasha , Xu Wei , Shen Wei , Chang Shengjiang
Published: January 2023

Herein, a high‐Q terahertz metamaterials perfect absorber is proposed. The absorption, physical mechanism, and refractive index sensing are investigated by using the finite element method. The results indicate that for B‐mode and D‐mode, the Q values are as high as 1160.41 and 1276.31, which are at least one order of magnitude higher than previously reported. The sensitivity S and the figure of merit (FOM) are 1078.00 GHz RIU−1, 170.03 and 518.00 GHz RIU−1, 75.29, respectively. It can be seen that the B‐mode is more suitable for sensing application than the D‐mode. The effective sensitivity Seff is presented to characterize the effect of the analyte thickness h on the sensing sensitivity. The study finds that the Seff of the B‐mode is greater than one when h is in the range of 9–10 μm, namely, the sensor has the highest sensitivity. In view of the aforementioned advantages, the proposed sensor has potential applications in nondestructive testing and biosensors.
Bayesian hierarchical models for adaptive basket trial designs
Authors: Chen Chian , Hsiao Chin‐Fu
Published: January 2023

Basket trials evaluate a single drug targeting a single genetic variant in multiple cancer cohorts. Empirical findings suggest that treatment efficacy across baskets may be heterogeneous. Most modern basket trial designs use Bayesian methods. These methods require the prior specification of at least one parameter that permits information sharing across baskets. In this study, we provide recommendations for selecting a prior for scale parameters for adaptive basket trials by using Bayesian hierarchical modeling. Heterogeneity among baskets attracts much attention in basket trial research, and substantial heterogeneity challenges the basic assumption of exchangeability of Bayesian hierarchical approach. Thus, we also allowed each stratum‐specific parameter to be exchangeable or nonexchangeable with similar strata by using data observed in an interim analysis. Through a simulation study, we evaluated the overall performance of our design based on statistical power and type I error rates. Our research contributes to the understanding of the properties of Bayesian basket trial designs.
Impact of pretransplant asplenia vaccination on anti‐A/B antibody titers in prospective ABO incompatible kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Bongetti Elisa , Sandrin Mauro S. , Mulley William R.
Published: January 2023

Background

Asplenia vaccination is employed before ABO‐incompatible (ABOi) transplantation in case splenectomy is needed. Pneumococcal vaccines have been reported, in different patient groups, to increase anti‐A/B titers, through cross‐reactivity to shared polysaccharide epitopes. We investigated the impact of pretransplant asplenia vaccinations on anti‐A/B antibody titers in prospective ABOi renal transplant recipients.

Methods

Published asplenia vaccine microbial structures were reviewed to assess expression of A/B antigens. All patients who underwent ABOi transplantation at Monash Medical Centre with anti‐A/B titers taken either side of asplenia vaccination were included in a retrospective cohort study between 2007 and 2021. Patients with paired titers without intervening vaccination were included as controls. Paired titers were compared within groups.

Results

A and B antigens were found to be expressed by vaccine specific pneumococcal serotypes. Thirty‐nine ABOi renal transplant recipients received vaccination including at least one pneumococcal vaccine. The most common donor to recipient combination was A1 to O. The median pre‐ and postvaccination anti‐A/B titers were 1:32 and there was no significant change in titers following vaccination (median change in titer 0 dilutions, range –2 to 3, P = 0.43). The same findings were apparent in the control group (n = 20). There was no significant change in titer by donor blood group or vaccine type. No transplants were canceled or delayed by a rise in anti‐A/B titers postvaccination.

Conclusion

Pneumococcal vaccination had no clinically relevant impact on anti‐A/B titers before ABOi transplantation in this cohort. These results provide reassurance regarding the safety of asplenia vaccination before ABOi transplantation.
Real‐time fundus reconstruction and intraocular mapping using an ophthalmic endoscope
Authors: Zhou Dongbo , Takeyama Hayato , Nakao Shintaro , Sonoda Koh‐Hei , Tadano Kotaro
Published: January 2023

Background

Robotic ophthalmic endoscope holders allow surgeons to execute dual‐hand operations in eye surgery. To prevent needle‐like endoscopes from invading the retina when moving, surgeons expect visual and real‐time information about the relative special relationship between the endoscope and fundus.

Methods

This study develops a real‐time fundus reconstruction method. First, using deep learning, the method estimates the distance between the fundus part corresponding to every pixel of the RGB endoscopic image and the endoscope. Then, by combining the estimated distance with the kinematics of a robotic holder, the point cloud representing the present fundus area is generated, and by which the size and position of the eyeball are estimated.

Results

This method shows a real‐time frequency of 10 Hz, which is robust to eyeball movement. The error of fundus reconstruction is about 0.5 mm, and the error of eyeball estimation is about 1 mm.

Conclusion

Using this fundus reconstruction method can map the position of the endoscope inside the eyeball when using a robotic endoscope holder in eye surgery. The overall accuracy level meets the ophthalmologists' accuracy requirements of ophthalmologists.
Adaptive control for unknown HOFA nonlinear systems without overparametrization
Authors: Liu Cungen , Liu Xiaoping , Wang Huanqing , Zhou Yucheng , Gao Chuang
Published: January 2023

The problem of adaptive control is investigated for unknown mixed high‐order fully actuated (HOFA) nonlinear systems. To deal with the parametric uncertainties, the tuning function is utilized to design an adaptive update law without parameter overestimation. Based on the full‐actuation feature of HOFA nonlinear systems and Lyapunov stability theory, an adaptive controller is constructed and its stability is analyzed. Finally, the effectiveness of the control strategy is verified by simulation results.
Finite‐horizon H∞ output fault‐tolerant consensus for multi‐agent systems with switching topology and deception attacks
Authors: Chen Yang‐Jie , Li Jian‐Ning , Wu Lan
Published: January 2023

This article investigates the output fault‐tolerant consensus problem for multi‐agent systems with switching topology and deception attacks. In order to reduce the effects of switching topology, the differences between topologies can be modeled as topology uncertainties. In practice, the deception attack may occur in a random way and assumed to satisfy Bernoulli distributions. The purpose of this research is to design an output fault‐tolerant controller such that, in the presence of switching topology, actuator faults, and deception attacks, the finite‐horizon output fault‐tolerant consensus can be achieved under a prespecified performance. An initial‐state‐based performance requirement is constructed, and this bypasses the need for the zero initial condition in the conventional theory. After this, the controller gains are computed by employing an iterative linear matrix inequality scheme. Finally, a numerical example is provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Effect of Acridine Orange on Improving the Electrochemical Performance of Tyrosinase Adsorbed Sulfide Minerals Based Catechol Biosensor
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wang Yue , Dong Yan , Zhang Zhiqiang , Hasebe Yasushi , Zhu Jianmin , Liu Zhaobin , Gao Enjun
Published: January 2023

A highly sensitive and selective electrochemical biosensor for catechol (CC) detection was developed by immobilizing tyrosinase (TYR) on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with sulfide minerals (SFMs) in the co‐adsorption of acridine orange (AO). The sensor employed natural SFMs as the substrate material and utilized AO as a molecular recognition probe to create synergy effect for TYR to detect catechol. The developed TYR/AO/SFMs/GCE biosensors were characterized by scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive analysis of X‐rays spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectra, X‐ray fluorescence, and electrochemical analysis. The results show that the sensors have excellent electrochemical activity for the detection of catechol (CC) under optimized conditions. The linear ranges were 0.1–50 μM, 0.1–10 μM, 0.1–50 μM and 0.1–100 μM for galena, pyrite, chalcopyrite and sphalerite, respectively, with the detection limits of 1.18 μM, 0.29 μM, 0.54 μM and 0.68 μM, respectively. The sensors also have good reproducibility, stability, repeatability and anti‐interference ability. AO is essential to increase the adsorbed amount and provides suitable orientation of the adsorbed TYR on these sulfide minerals’ surfaces. In consideration of cost‐effective and rich resources of sulfide minerals, easily physical adsorption method, combination of organic dye, minerals and enzymes, this strategy paves a new way to design other novel electrochemical biosensors.
High‐Flux and High‐Selectivity Graphene Oxide Membrane Prepared by a Two‐step Reduction Method for Metal Ion Separation
Authors: Zhao Zeyuan , Ni Shuainan , Zhi Hailan , Zhang Hepeng , Su Xiang , Sun Xiaoqi
Published: January 2023

Aiming at the problems of the graphene oxide (GO) membrane‘s water swelling and low ion selectivity, a two‐step reduction method was designed to prepare the interlayer positive charge modified two‐step reduced graphene oxide (TS‐rGO) membrane. Modified stable polyamino molecules onto GO, such as ethylenediamine (EDA), piperazine (PIP) and melamine (MA), provided the membrane interlayer with positive charge to enhance ion selectivity and maintained the stability of the interlayer channel at the same time. The moderate reduced graphene oxide (RGO) membrane was obtained by two‐step reduction process of hydrothermal reduction and heat treatment reduction, which enhanced the stability in water environment and increased the water flux. The permeability of TS‐rGO membrane, represented by PIP‐rGO, to monovalent metal ions (K+, Na+, Li+) was similar to that of GO membrane, but its rejection effect on trivalent metal ion (the penetration rate of La3+ is as low as 4.65×10−5 mol m−2 h−1.) was enhanced by nearly two orders of magnitude. The TS‐rGO membrane could have high ion selectivity, high low‐valent ion permeability, and high water flux simultaneously. In the process of ion permeation, due to the successful modification of interlayer positive charge, the charge effect and size effect synergistically improve the ion selectivity of TS‐rGO membrane.
Delayed Polarization Saturation Induced Superior Energy Storage Capability of BiFeO3‐Based Ceramics Via Introduction of Non‐Isovalent Ions
Authors: Zhao Jinghao , Hu Tengfei , Fu Zhengqian , Pan Zhongbin , Tang Luomeng , Chen Xiqi , Li Huanhuan , Hu Jiawen , Lv Ling , Zhou Zhixin , Liu Jinjun , Li Peng , Zhai Jiwei
Published: January 2023

Electrostatic capacitors are emerging as a highly promising technology for large‐scale energy storage applications. However, it remains a significant challenge to improve their energy densities. Here, an effective strategy of introducing non‐isovalent ions into the BiFeO3‐based (BFO) ceramic to improve energy storage capability via delaying polarization saturation is demonstrated. Accordingly, an ultra‐high energy density of up to 7.4 J cm−3 and high efficiency ≈ 81% at 680 kV m−1 are realized, which is one of the best energy storage performances recorded for BFO‐based ceramics. The outstanding comprehensive energy storage performance is attributed to inhibiting the polarization hysteresis resulting from generation ergodic relaxor zone and random field, and generating highly‐delayed polarization saturation with continuously‐increased polarization magnitudes with the electric field of supercritical evolution. The contributions demonstrate that delaying the polarization saturation is a consideration for designing the next generation of lead‐free dielectric materials with ultra‐high energy storage performance.
Recent Progress of Three‐dimensionally Ordered Macroporous (3DOM) Materials in Photocatalytic Applications: A Review
Authors: Guo Rui‐tang , Hu Xing , Chen Xin , Bi Zhe‐xu , Wang Juan , Pan Wei‐guo
Published: January 2023

In recent years, three‐dimensionally ordered macroporous (3DOM) materials have attracted tremendous interest in the field of photocatalysis due to the periodic spatial structure and unique physicochemical properties of 3DOM catalysts. In this review, the fundamentals and principles of 3DOM photocatalysts are briefly introduced, including the overview of 3DOM materials, the photocatalytic principles based on 3DOM materials, and the advantages of 3DOM materials in photocatalysis. The preparation methods of 3DOM materials are also presented. The structure and properties of 3DOM materials and their effects on photocatalytic performance are briefly summarized. More importantly, 3DOM materials, as a supported catalyst, are extensively employed to combine with various common materials, including metal nanoparticles, metal oxides, metal sulfides, and carbon materials, to enhance photocatalytic performance. Finally, the prospects and challenges for the development of 3DOM materials in the field of photocatalysis are presented.
Metal Organic Framework Glasses: A New Platform for Electrocatalysis?
Authors: Rao Yu , Kou Zongkui , Zhang Xianghua , Lu Ping
Published: January 2023

Metal organic framework (MOF) glasses are a coordination network of metal nodes and organic ligands as an undercooled frozen‐in liquid, and have therefore broadened the potential of MOF materials in the fundamental research and application scenarios. On the road to deploying MOF glasses as electrocatalysts, it remains several basic scientific hurdles although MOF glasses not only inherit the structural merits of MOFs but also endow with active catalytic features including concentrated defects, metal centers and disorder structure etc. The research on the ionic conductivity, catalytic stability and reactivity of MOF glasses has yielded scientific insights towards its electrocatalytic applications. Here, we first comb the history, definition and basic properties of MOF glasses. Then, we identify the main synthetic methods and characterization techniques. Finally, we advance the potentials and challenges of MOF glasses as electrocatalysts in furthering the understanding of these themes.
Computed tomographic findings in dogs with multiple myeloma
Authors: Hõim Sven‐Erik , Fitzgerald Ella , Mapletoft Emma , Purzycka Katarzyna
Published: January 2023

Background

Computed tomography (CT) is considered the first‐line imaging modality for human patients with suspected multiple myeloma (MM). Recently the diagnostic criteria for human MM have been updated.

Objectives

To describe and provide a baseline of the CT features and distribution of osseous lesions in dogs diagnosed with MM and to describe the change of initial osseous lesions after the start of treatment in a subset of dogs.

Methods

Single‐centre, retrospective, descriptive, case series. Dogs were included when they met the updated MM criteria and if a staging CT was performed at the time of diagnosis and prior to initiation of treatment. When available, change of osseous lesions was assessed on serial imaging studies.

Results

Thirteen dogs met the inclusion criteria. All dogs had involvement of the axial skeleton and 9/13 (69%) had concurrent involvement of the appendicular skeleton. Large (≥1 cm), lytic, ‘punched out’ or expansile bony lesions and regions of permeative lysis were most common and mainly affected the vertebral column. Discrete intramedullary soft tissue attenuating lesions of the proximal appendicular skeleton were observed in 8/13 dogs (61%) and bilateral involvement of both humeri and femurs was seen in 4/9 dogs (44%). A subset of dogs underwent serial imaging and progressive replacement of the contrast‐enhancing lesions with fat attenuating tissue was observed for all dogs, corresponding with clinical improvement.

Conclusions

This case series provides a baseline knowledge of the initial and follow‐up CT features in dogs diagnosed with MM based on updated criteria.
18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography findings of peripheral nerve sheath tumour of the nasal cavity in a dog
Authors: Lee Dohee , Yun Hyejin , Yun Taesik , Koo Yoonhoi , Chae Yeon , Nam Hyeyeon , Kang Seonggweon , Lee Hayoon , Chang Dongwoo , Yang Mhan‐Pyo , Kang Byeong‐Teck , Kim Hakhyun
Published: January 2023

An 8‐year‐old Miniature Poodle presented with chronic sneezing and unilateral epistaxis. A left‐sided intranasal mass was identified on computed tomography. 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) was performed to evaluate the metabolic activity of the mass. The intranasal mass showed mildly increased 18F‐FDG uptake. The maximal and mean standardized uptake values (SUVs) of the mass were 3.4 and 2.6, respectively. The maximal SUV of the mass/mean SUV of the normal liver was 2.5. The 7‐cm soft, pink mass was easily removed through rhinoscopy, with subsequent dramatic improvement in clinical signs. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses determined that the mass was an intermediate‐grade malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (PNST). This is the first report of 18F‐FDG PET findings in a PNST in dogs.