bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between cortical gene expression and resting‐state functional network centrality in healthy young adults
Authors: Zhu Dan , Yuan Tengfei , Gao Junfeng , Xu Qiang , Xue Kaizhong , Zhu Wenshuang , Tang Jie , Liu Feng , Wang Junping , Yu Chunshui
Published: February 2021

Resting‐state functional connectivity in the human brain is heritable, and previous studies have investigated the genetic basis underlying functional connectivity. However, at present, the molecular mechanisms associated with functional network centrality are still largely unknown. In this study, functional networks were constructed, and the graph‐theory method was employed to calculate network centrality in 100 healthy young adults from the Human Connectome Project. Specifically, functional connectivity strength (FCS), also known as the “degree centrality” of weighted networks, is calculated to measure functional network centrality. A multivariate technique of partial least squares regression (PLSR) was then conducted to identify genes whose spatial expression profiles best predicted the FCS distribution. We found that FCS spatial distribution was significantly positively correlated with the expression of genes defined by the first PLSR component. The FCS‐related genes we identified were significantly enriched for ion channels, axon guidance, and synaptic transmission. Moreover, FCS‐related genes were preferentially expressed in cortical neurons and young adulthood and were enriched in numerous neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Furthermore, a series of validation and robustness analyses demonstrated the reliability of the results. Overall, our results suggest that the spatial distribution of FCS is modulated by the expression of a set of genes associated with ion channels, axon guidance, and synaptic transmission.
How does losing health insurance affect disability claims? Evidence from the Affordable Care Act's dependent care mandate
Authors: Levere Michael , Hock Heinrich , Early Nancy
Published: February 2021

We estimate the impacts of losing access to parental health insurance on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) participation, focusing on the age‐26 limit for dependent coverage. We analyze the age pattern of SSI claims to develop counterfactual predictions that assume no change in access to insurance. Relative to this prediction, we find a 3.4% spike in SSI applications in the months immediately surrounding the 26th birthday, along with a slightly smaller increase in awards. These claims are primarily motivated by losing coverage; there might be more direct ways to address unmet insurance needs without also increasing reliance on cash payments.
The tumor immune contexture of salivary duct carcinoma
Authors: Schvartsman Gustavo , Bell Diana , Rubin Maria Laura , Tetzlaff Michael , Hanna Ehab , Lee Jiun‐Kae Jack , Weber Randal , Phan Jack , Glisson Bonnie S. , Ferrarotto Renata
Published: February 2021

Background

Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) is a rare and aggressive malignancy. Recently, biomarker studies found promising targetable alterations. In this study, we provide a descriptive analysis of tumor and immune biomarkers and survival associations.

Methods

We extracted clinical data and performed immunohistochemistry for AR, AR‐V7, HER‐2, PD‐L1, LAG‐3, and tumor‐infiltrating immune cells.

Results

We included 17 patients. Age ranged from 42 to 85 years old; HER‐2 was overexpressed or amplified in 65%. AR was positive in 88% of patients, while AR‐V7 was positive in 13% by IHC. We found low scores of immune infiltration and a PD‐L1 expression in 53%. We found no clinically significant association between biomarkers and survival outcomes.

Conclusion

In this small series of SDC, biomarkers do not seem to correlate with disease biology, although they provide additional treatment options. SDC may harbor a different immune profile compared to other subtypes, with an indication of T‐cell dysfunction.
Long‐term neck and shoulder function among survivors of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treated with chemoradiation as assessed with the neck dissection impairment index
Authors: Burgin Sarah J. M. , Spector Matthew E. , Pearson Alexander T. , Bellile Emily , Vainshtein Jeffrey M. , Rosko Andrew , Mclean Scott A. , Bradford Carol R. , Wolf Gregory T. , Prince Mark E. , Worden Francis P. , Eisbruch Avraham , Chepeha Douglas B.
Published: February 2021

Background

Of interest is the long‐term neck and shoulder impairment of patients treated with primary chemoradiotherapy (CRT). This is important for counseling patients regarding treatment decisions when discussing primary CRT.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study to identify factors that contribute to neck and shoulder dysfunction in patients treated with primary CRT. We utilized the neck dissection impairment index (NDII). Eighty‐seven patients treated between 2003 and 2010, who were free of disease, responded; 24 of these 87 underwent post‐CRT neck dissection. Mean interval since completion of CRT was over 5 years (62.7 months). Mean age, 63.5 years, male:female 75:12.

Results

Mean NDII score was 87.4 (SD 22.1, range 5–100). Multiple linear regression revealed worse NDII scores for patients with larger pre‐CRT gross tumor nodal volume (GTVnodal), controlled for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and the presence of neck dissection (p = 0.02). There were significant associations with increasing GTVnodal and “low” scores for components of the NDII that assessed neck pain (p = 0.02), neck stiffness (p = 0.01), lifting heavy objects (p = 0.02), reaching overhead (p = 0.02), and ability to do work (p = 0.02). Physical therapy (PT) was evaluated as an “anchor” but it was prescribed “as needed.” Regression revealed participation in PT was associated with higher GTVnodal, lower BMI, presence of neck dissection, and female sex (p = 0.00007).

Conclusion

GTVnodal was an independent predictor of neck and shoulder impairment. High GTVnodal was associated with increased pain and stiffness, and increased difficulty lifting heavy objects, reaching overhead, overall ability to perform work‐related tasks and was associated with participation in post‐treatment PT.
Cordycepin Ameliorates Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis by Activation of the AMP‐Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lan Tian , Yu Yang , Zhang Jing , Li Haonan , Weng Qiqing , Jiang Shuo , Tian Song , Xu Tonghao , Hu Sha , Yang Guizhi , Zhang Yan , Wang Weixuan , Wang Lexun , Zhu Qing , Rong Xianglu , Guo Jiao
Published: February 2021

Background and Aims

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, especially nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), has become a major cause of liver transplantation and liver‐associated death. NASH is the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome and is characterized by hepatic steatosis, inflammation, hepatocellular injury, and different degrees of fibrosis. However, there is no US Food and Drug Administration–approved medication to treat this devastating disease. Therapeutic activators of the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) have been proposed as a potential treatment for metabolic diseases such as NASH. Cordycepin, a natural product isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine Cordyceps militaris, has recently emerged as a promising drug candidate for metabolic diseases.

Approach and Results

We evaluated the effects of cordycepin on lipid storage in hepatocytes, inflammation, and fibrosis development in mice with NASH. Cordycepin attenuated lipid accumulation, inflammation, and lipotoxicity in hepatocytes subjected to metabolic stress. In addition, cordycepin treatment significantly and dose‐dependently decreased the elevated levels of serum aminotransferases in mice with diet‐induced NASH. Furthermore, cordycepin treatment significantly reduced hepatic triglyceride accumulation, inflammatory cell infiltration, and hepatic fibrosis in mice. In vitro and in vivo mechanistic studies revealed that a key mechanism linking the protective effects of cordycepin were AMPK phosphorylation–dependent, as indicated by the finding that treatment with the AMPK inhibitor Compound C abrogated cordycepin‐induced hepatoprotection in hepatocytes and mice with NASH.

Conclusion

Cordycepin exerts significant protective effects against hepatic steatosis, inflammation, liver injury, and fibrosis in mice under metabolic stress through activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. Cordycepin might be an AMPK activator that can be used for the treatment of NASH.
Hexa Histidine–Tagged Recombinant Human Cytoglobin Deactivates Hepatic Stellate Cells and Inhibits Liver Fibrosis by Scavenging Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Dat Ninh Quoc , Thuy Le Thi Thanh , Hieu Vu Ngoc , Hai Hoang , Hoang Dinh Viet , Thi Thanh Hai Nguyen , Thuy Tuong Thi Van , Komiya Tohru , Rombouts Krista , Dong Minh Phuong , Hanh Ngo Vinh , Hoang Truong Huu , Sato‐Matsubara Misako , Daikoku Atsuko , Kadono Chiho , Oikawa Daisuke , Yoshizato Katsutoshi , Tokunaga Fuminori , Pinzani Massimo , Kawada Norifumi
Published: February 2021

Background and Aims

Antifibrotic therapy remains an unmet medical need in human chronic liver disease. We report the antifibrotic properties of cytoglobin (CYGB), a respiratory protein expressed in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main cell type involved in liver fibrosis.

Approach and Results

Cygb‐deficient mice that had bile duct ligation–induced liver cholestasis or choline‐deficient amino acid–defined diet–induced steatohepatitis significantly exacerbated liver damage, fibrosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. All of these manifestations were attenuated in Cygb‐overexpressing mice. We produced hexa histidine–tagged recombinant human CYGB (His‐CYGB), traced its biodistribution, and assessed its function in HSCs or in mice with advanced liver cirrhosis using thioacetamide (TAA) or 3,5‐diethoxycarbonyl‐1,4‐dihydrocollidine (DDC). In cultured HSCs, extracellular His‐CYGB was endocytosed and accumulated in endosomes through a clathrin‐mediated pathway. His‐CYGB significantly impeded ROS formation spontaneously or in the presence of ROS inducers in HSCs, thus leading to the attenuation of collagen type 1 alpha 1 production and α‐smooth muscle actin expression. Replacement the iron center of the heme group with cobalt nullified the effect of His‐CYGB. In addition, His‐CYGB induced interferon‐β secretion by HSCs that partly contributed to its antifibrotic function. Momelotinib incompletely reversed the effect of His‐CYGB. Intravenously injected His‐CYGB markedly suppressed liver inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative cell damage in mice administered TAA or DDC mice without adverse effects. RNA‐sequencing analysis revealed the down‐regulation of inflammation‐ and fibrosis‐related genes and the up‐regulation of antioxidant genes in both cell culture and liver tissues. The injected His‐CYGB predominantly localized to HSCs but not to macrophages, suggesting specific targeting effects. His‐CYGB exhibited no toxicity in chimeric mice with humanized livers.

Conclusions

His‐CYGB could have antifibrotic clinical applications for human chronic liver diseases.
coreNASH: Multi-stakeholder Consensus on Core Outcomes for Decision Making About Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Treatment
Authors: Clearfield Elizabeth , Miller Veronica , Nadglowski Joseph , Barradas Katherine , Al Naber Jennifer , Sanyal Arun J. , Neuschwander-Tetri Brent A. , Messner Donna A. , Baldyga William , Balp Maria-Magdalena , Brun-Strang Catherine , Carson Robyn , Eskridge Wayne , Gurusamy Kurinchi , Hansen Lars , Hansen Morten , Harrison Katy , Harsanyi Andras , Hvelplund Anders , Kaló Zoltán , Korenjak Marko , Milne EJ , McLeod Euan , Mocarski Michelle , Musaeus Joachim , Ntanios Fady , Noureddin Mazen , Ollendorf Daniel , Oscarsson Jan , Rossi Stephen , Ratziu Vlad , Rotman Yaron , Ruiz-Casas Leonardo , Sandy Lewis , Schattenberg Jörn M , Siddiqui Mohammad Shadab , Steinberg Gregory , Weiss Ethan , White Keith , Willemse José , Wright Kathy , Zemel Michael
Published: February 2021

The increasing prevalence and burden of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has spurred the development of new treatments and a need to consider outcomes used for NASH treatment decision making. Development of a NASH core outcome set (COS) can help prioritize outcomes of highest importance by incorporating the perspectives from a variety of decision makers. coreNASH was an initiative to develop a COS for NASH using a modified Delphi consensus process with a multi-stakeholder voting panel. A candidate outcome list was created based on a literature review and key informant interviews. The candidate outcome list was then condensed and prioritized through three rounds of online voting and through discussion at an in-person meeting. Outcomes were retained or eliminated based on predetermined consensus criteria, which included special weighting of patients’ opinions in the first two voting rounds. The coreNASH Delphi panel included 53 participants (7 patients, 10 clinicians and researchers, 7 health technology assessors, 22 industry representatives, 2 regulators, and 5 payers) who considered outcomes for two NASH-related COS: one for NASH without cirrhosis (F2-F3) and one for NASH with cirrhosis (F4). The initial candidate outcome list for both disease stages included 86 outcomes. The panel agreed on including two core outcomes for NASH without cirrhosis and nine core outcomes for NASH with cirrhosis in the COS. Conclusion: A consensus-based COS has been developed that can be used across the life cycle of NASH treatments. Outcomes included can contribute to decision making for regulatory, market access, and on-market decision making. Including the coreNASH COS in clinical development programs will facilitate improved comparisons and help decision makers assess the value of new products.
A systematic review on the impacts of Covid‐19 on work: Contributions and a path forward from the perspectives of ergonomics and psychodynamics of work
Authors: Sigahi Tiago F. A. C. , Kawasaki Bruno C. , Bolis Ivan , Morioka Sandra N.
Published: February 2021

Work is a major issue in the discussions on the Covid‐19 pandemic, whose consequences impair the capacities of workers at all organizational levels and impose unexpected challenges on managers. Nevertheless, the scientific literature still lacks an overview of how researchers have been covering the issue. This article presents a systematic review to investigate the impact of Covid‐19 on work and workers of all occupations, reveal research gaps, and help managers to adapt to organizations amid the pandemic. This review is based on a sample of 258 papers from Web of Science and Scopus databases. Quantitative and qualitative analysis indicated a vast majority of studies focused on frontline healthcare workers and a lack of empirical investigation on managers' work. We show how literature has been addressing different aspects of work (e.g., workers' health, working conditions, procedures, protection equipment, remote working, etc.) in the various economic sectors. We discuss the results in light of ergonomics and psychodynamics of work, two disciplines that conceive work and organization as intimately connected, and that can assist managers in meeting the difficulties brought by the pandemic. We highlight that considering the construction of health, interindividual variability, subjective relation to work, supportive workplace environment, and organizational and individual capabilities can play a key role in successfully adapting and transforming organizations in the current scenario.
Multi‐institutional validation of novel models for predicting the prognosis of patients with huge hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Hui , Liu Qing‐Bo , Xiang Cai‐Ling , Mao Xian‐Hai , Yang Bing , Li Qiang , Zhou Qun‐Fang , Li Shao‐Qiang , Zhou Zhong‐Guo , Chen Min‐Shan
Published: February 2021

The population of patients with huge hepatocellular carcinoma (H‐HCC diameter > 10.0 cm) is an odd group that is not well adjudicated in the current staging systems, whose prognosis after curative resection varies. We aimed to develop novel models to predict the long‐term outcomes of patients with H‐HCC without portal vein tumor thrombus after hepatectomy. There were 1076 H‐HCC patients enrolled who underwent curative liver resection in five institutions in China. In total, 670 patients were recruited from our center and randomly divided into the training cohort (n = 502) and internal validation (n = 168) cohorts. Additionally, 406 patients selected from other four centers as the external validation cohort. Novel models were constructed based on independent preoperative and postoperative predictors of postsurgical recurrence (PSR) and postsurgical mortality (PSM) determined in multivariable cox regression analysis. The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability of the model were measured using Harrell's concordance index (C index) and calibration curve and compared with five conventional HCC staging systems. PSR model and PSM model were constructed based on tumor number, microscopic vascular invasion, tumor differentiation, preoperative alpha‐fetoprotein level, albumin‐bilirubin grade, liver segment invasion, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio or platelet‐to‐neutrophil ratio, and surgical margin or intraoperative blood transfusion. The C‐indexes were 0.84 (95% CI, 0.78‐0.90) and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.78‐0.91) for the PSR and PSM models, respectively, which were substantially higher than those of the five conventional HCC staging systems (0.63‐0.75 for PSR; 0.66‐0.77 for PSM). The two novel models achieved more accurate prognostic predictions of PSR and PSM for H‐HCC patients after curative liver resection.
Effects of environmental, social and surgical factors on ovarian reserve: Implications for age‐relative female fertility
Authors: Wang Ying , Yuan Yuncang , Meng Dan , Liu Xiaona , Gao Yucui , Wang Fang , Li Yuyan , He Wei
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate new risk factors for female fertility by analyzing the effects of environmental, social, and surgical factors on antral follicle counts (AFC) and anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels.

Methods

A total of 1513 women aged 20–47 years who underwent in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic injection treatment in Southwest Hospital from December 2017 to December 2019 were included. Women were assessed for AFC and AMH levels, and completed a questionnaire. Ordinal logistic regression analyses with generalized linear mixed models were used to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (OR) for diminished ovarian reserve.

Results

Adnexal surgery was the only risk factor associated with low AFC in women aged 20–30 years. Younger age at menarche, alcohol drinking, and adnexal surgery are three independent risk factors for AMH decline in women aged 20–30 years. Intense exercise, sleep quality, and adnexal surgery are three independent risk factors for a low AFC in women aged 31–36 years. Alcohol drinking and adnexal surgery are two independent risk factors for AMH decline in women aged 31–36 years.

Conclusion

With age, female fertility becomes sensitive to high‐intensity exercise and poor sleep quality. Adnexal surgery and alcohol drinking are two important risk factors for female fertility in women under age 37 years.
There is no such thing as a bad boy: The Circumstances View of problem behavior
Authors: Friman Patrick C.
Published: February 2021

From the beginning of recorded time human beings have assigned blame to persons who misbehave. The first prominent person to make an alternative case was Father Edward J. Flanagan, the founder of Boys Town, who proclaimed there was “no such thing as a bad boy, only bad environment, bad modeling, and bad teaching” (Oursler & Oursler, 1949, p. 7) in other words, bad circumstances. This paper will refer to this perspective as the Circumstances View of problem behavior and anchor it as the foundational idea for the field of behavior analysis. This paper will discuss the origins of the Circumstances View, the benefits that result from its adoption, reasons why its adoption is not more widespread, and suggestions for disseminating it more widely.
Development of an imaging device for label‐free parathyroid gland identification and vascularity assessment
Authors: Mannoh Emmanuel A. , Parker Logan B. , Thomas Giju , Solórzano Carmen C. , Mahadevan‐Jansen Anita
Published: February 2021

During thyroid surgeries, it is important for surgeons to accurately identify healthy parathyroid glands and assess their vascularity to preserve their function postoperatively, thus preventing hypoparathyroidism and hypocalcemia. Near infrared autofluorescence detection enables parathyroid identification, while laser speckle contrast imaging allows assessment of parathyroid vascularity. Here, we present an imaging system combining the two techniques to perform both functions, simultaneously and label‐free. An algorithm to automate the segmentation of a parathyroid gland in the fluorescence image to determine its average speckle contrast is also presented, reducing a barrier to clinical translation. Results from imaging ex vivo tissue samples show that the algorithm is equivalent to manual segmentation. Intraoperative images from representative procedures are presented showing successful implementation of the device to identify and assess vascularity of healthy and diseased parathyroid glands.
Application of artificial neural network and global optimization techniques for high throughput modeling of the crystal structure of stannites and kesterites
Authors: Matyszczak Grzegorz , Zberecki Krzysztof
Published: February 2021

This study aims to apply artificial neural networks for the prediction of the lattice parameters of materials with stannite‐ and kesterite‐type structure, and to compare the results of predictions with that obtained in the calculations exploiting the density functional theory. Crystallographic data for 49 compounds with stannite‐type structure and for four compounds with the kesterite‐type structure are found and, based on it, crystal structures are calculated using the density functional theory (DFT) method in a two‐step relaxation procedure for all compounds. An multilayer Perceptron is constructed, which then is trained on gathered crystallographic data. Values predicted by a neural network (lattice parameters) are compared with experimental data and with results of DFT calculations. Moreover, a global optimization method (the Uspex code) is used to find potentially novel crystal structures for investigated chemical compositions. The results are discussed in the term of advantages and disadvantages of each method.
Mitoflash generated at the Qo site of mitochondrial Complex III
Authors: Gao Meng , Qin Yuan , Li Anqi , Wei Sailei , Liu Bilin , Tian Xiangang , Gong Guohua
Published: February 2021

The previous research has shown that mitochondrial flash (mitoflash) genesis are functionally and mechanistically integrated with mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) energy metabolism. However, the response of mitoflash to superoxide is not entirely consistent with the response of MitoSOX Red. The generation mechanism of mitoflash is still unclear. Here, we investigated mitoflash activities, using the different combinations of ETC substrates and inhibitors, in permeabilized cardiomyocytes or hearts. We found that blocking the complete electron flow, from Complex I to IV, with any one of ETC inhibitors including rotenone (Rot), antimycin A (AntA), myxothiazol (Myxo), stigmatellin, and sodium cyanide, will lead to the abolishment of mitoflashes triggered by substrates in adult permeabilized cardiomyocytes. However, Myxo boosted mitoflashes triggered by the reverse electron of N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethyl‐p‐phenylenediamine/ascorbate. Moreover, Rot and AntA furtherly enhanced mitoflash activity rather than depressed it, suggesting that mitoflashes generated at the Complex III Qo site. Meanwhile, the inhibition of Complex III protein expression resulted in the activity of Complex III decrease, which decreased mitoflash frequency. The function defect (no change of protein level) of the Qo site of Complex III in aging hearts augmented mitoflash generation confirmed the Qo site function was critical to mitoflash genesis. Thus, our results indicate that mitoflash detected by circularly permuted yellow fluorescent protein is generated at the Qo site of Complex III.
GDF‐15: Diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic significance in glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Hasanpour Segherlou Zahra , Nouri‐Vaskeh Masoud , Noroozi Guilandehi Sama , Baghbanzadeh Amir , Zand Ramin , Baradaran Behzad , Zarei Mohammad
Published: February 2021

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the commonest primary malignant brain tumor and has a remarkably weak prognosis. According to the aggressive form of GBM, understanding the accurate molecular mechanism associated with GBM pathogenesis is essential. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF‐15) belongs to transforming growth factor‐β superfamily with important roles to control biological processes. It affects cancer growth and progression, drug resistance, and metastasis. It also can promote stemness in many cancers, and also can stress reactions control, bone generation, hematopoietic growth, adipose tissue performance, and body growth, and contributes to cardiovascular disorders. The role GDF‐15 to develop and progress cancer is complicated and remains unclear. GDF‐15 possesses tumor suppressor properties, as well as an oncogenic effect. GDF‐15 antitumorigenic and protumorigenic impacts on tumor development are linked to the cancer type and stage. However, the GDF‐15 signaling and mechanism have not yet been completely identified because of no recognized cognate receptor.
Activation of RAGE leads to the release of glutamate from astrocytes and stimulates calcium signal in neurons
Authors: Kamynina Anna , Esteras Noemi , Koroev Dmitry O. , Angelova Plamena R. , Volpina Olga M. , Abramov Andrey Y.
Published: February 2021

The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a signal receptor first shown to be activated by advanced glycation end products, but also by a variety of signal molecules, including pathological advanced oxidation protein products and β‐amyloid. However, most of the RAGE activators have multiple intracellular targets, making it difficult to unravel the exact pathway of RAGE activation. Here, we show that the cell‐impermeable RAGE fragment sequence (60–76) of the V‐domain of the receptor is able to activate RAGE present on the plasma membrane of neurons and, preferentially, astrocytes. This leads to the exocytosis of vesicular glutamate transporter vesicles and the release of glutamate from astrocytes, which stimulate NMDA and AMPA/kainate receptors, resulting in calcium signals predominantly in neurons. Thus, we show a specific mechanism of RAGE activation by the RAGE fragment and propose a mechanism by which RAGE activation can contribute to the neuronal‐astrocytic communication in physiology and pathology.
Consumer Wisdom for Personal Well‐Being and the Greater Good: Scale Development and Validation
Authors: Luchs Michael Gerhard , Mick David Glen , Haws Kelly L.
Published: February 2021

Historically, wisdom has been considered a leading character strength for guiding personal well‐being and the greater good. It has also been routinely considered domain‐specific. Hence, consumer researchers should not just borrow conceptualizations or measures of general wisdom from the social sciences or measures of specific wisdom from nonconsumption contexts. Drawing from recent exploratory research on consumer wisdom by Luchs and Mick (Journal of Consumer Psychology, 2018, 28(3), 365‐392), we use survey data to test and refine their multidimensional framework as we develop a Consumer Wisdom Scale (CWS). Across five studies, we demonstrate the discriminant, nomological, predictive, and incremental validity of our CWS. We show that it explains unique variance across a variety of indicators of well‐being (e.g., satisfaction with life) in comparison to other measures previously associated with well‐being (e.g., relationship support). Further, we show that our CWS, versus a general wisdom measure, is more associated with select behaviors relevant to personal well‐being and the greater good (e.g., exercise, healthy eating, and financial savings). Closing discussion summarizes our findings and limitations, and suggests future research.
Effect of multi‐professional education on the perceptions and awareness of oral health care among undergraduate nursing students in a nursing school
Authors: Haresaku Satoru , Kubota Keiko , Yoshida Rie , Aoki Hisae , Nakashima Fuyuko , Iino Hidechika , Uchida Souhei , Miyazono Mami , Naito Toru
Published: February 2021

Objective

This study investigates the effects of a study course in oral health care on the perceptions of nursing students. The course was designed and evaluated by a multi‐professional team at a Japanese nursing school.

Method

The subjects were 119 nursing students. They participated in the oral health course that comprised 45h of training in 4 years. These were designed and taught by oral health professionals, a certified speech‐hearing therapist, and nurses. Questionnaires were distributed to subjects to compare their perceptions and awareness about oral health care before, in between, and after the courses. A chi‐square test was used to compare the data.

Results

After completing the courses, more than 95% of the participants were interested in the oral health care practice and expected to collaborate with oral health professionals after getting qualified. Additionally, they understood the effectiveness of oral health care for the prevention of aspiration pneumonia and perceived that oral health care should be provided to hospitalized patients and community‐dwelling older adults. Their awareness of the need to learn techniques for tooth brushing support, salivary gland massage, oral management, swallowing training, removing tongue coating, and gargling, both in theory and practice, was significantly improved.

Conclusion

Multi‐professional education has the potential to improve the awareness of nursing students of oral health care and promote collaborative oral health care in the future.
Pollen micromorphology of eastern Chinese Polygonatum and its role in taxonomy by using scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Ali Maroof , Liu Yu‐Jun , Xia Qi‐Ping , Bahadur Saraj , Hussain Abrar , Shao Jian‐Wen , Shuaib Muhammad
Published: February 2021

Although considerable progress has recently been made in the taxonomic study of Asparagaceae, but the Polygonatum remains one of the most poorly investigated genus. Therefore, the present study was designed with the aim, to document the pollen micromorphology of closely related Polygonatum taxa and its taxonomic significance. Pollen micro‐morphological features were observed using scanning electron microscopy—SEM). The pollen grains are monad, navicular, monocolpate, and radially symmetrical. A significant variation was observed in the exine sculpturing. Moreover, most of the Polygonatum taxa have perforate pollen while some of them were mixed with psilate to perforate, perforate to microreticulate, sometimes scabrate, gemmate with baculate. Hence, this study documented the pollen morphology of Polygonatum taxa and strengthens the taxonomic identification of the genus Polygonatum based on pollen characters, which helps and can be used as an additional tool for the correct identification and discrimination of the species of Polygonatum at generic and species level.
Leaf anatomy of two medicinal Croton species: Contribution to plant recognition
Authors: Rosa Aline Camargo , Ferraro Alexandre , da Silva Rosa Helena , Pott Vali Joana , Victório Cristiane Pimentel , Arruda Rosani do Carmo de Oliveira
Published: February 2021

Croton L. (Euphorbiaceae) is the second largest genus of the Euphorbiaceae s.l. family, which is composed of about 1,200 taxa. Several species are widely used medicinally in various parts of the world to treat cancer, digestive problems, skin diseases, malaria, ulcers, and obesity. The leaves and stems are sold as dehydrated fragments, or in powder form, and used in the preparation of teas and various types of formulations. The aim of this study was to accurately characterize the leaf anatomy of Croton bonplandianus Baill. and Croton gracilipes Baill. and to perform histochemical analysis of laticifers to provide subsidies for botanical certification. To accomplish this, leaf blade and petiole samples were fixed and prepared following standard techniques for scanning electron and light microscopy. Histochemical tests were carried out on sections to detect the compounds present in the secretions. Results showed neutral and acidic lipids, as well as phenolic compounds, in the latex. In addition, leaf anatomical structures of these two species were studied for specific identification of morphological characters and for quality assessment of these medicinal plants.
Structure of the Eurasian moorhen spleen: A comprehensive study using gross anatomy, light, and transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Abdellatif Ahmed M.
Published: February 2021

The spleen is the largest secondary lymphoid organ with major roles in the removal of blood‐borne antigens. The Eurasian moorhen is a wild aquatic bird that revealed the adaptation to harsh environmental conditions. Information regarding the structural features of moorhen's spleen is lacking. The present study aimed to describe the composition of moorhen's spleen using anatomical dissection, histology, histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy. The spleen appeared as a brownish red sickle‐shaped organ close to the proventriculus and gizzard. The splenic capsule was very thin, and the trabeculae were poorly developed. The white pulp formed of the periarteriolar lymphoid sheath, lymphoid follicles, and periellipsoidal lymphatic sheath. The red pulp composed of sinusoids and cords and contained various types of blood cells. Blood vessels were observed within the splenic capsule and inside the parenchyma. Notably, penicillar capillaries (PCs) appeared branched and surrounded by well‐developed ellipsoids. Direct connections were observed between PCs and splenic sinusoids suggesting a closed type of circulation. Ultrastructurally, intercellular spaces and vascular channels were evident in the wall of PCs. Ellipsoid‐associated cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, and heterophils were observed within splenic ellipsoids. Ellipsoids were thus suggested as a crucial component of moorhen's spleen. Numerous MafB‐immunoreactive (IR) macrophages were seen within the red pulp. Splenic cords contained the highest number of PHH3‐IR cells, while CCASP3‐IR cells were exclusive to follicles of the white pulp. In conclusion, the structure of moorhen's spleen revealed species‐specific features. The findings of the present study could help to improve the immunity of domestic birds.
Pollen morphology of different species of Iris barbata and its systematic significance with scanning electron microscopy methods
Authors: Zhang Jingwei , Huang Dazhuang , Zhao Xiaojie , Hou Xueyan , Di Dongliu , Wang Shaokun , Qian Jinsen , Sun Pai
Published: February 2021

Forty‐eight cultivars of Iris barbata were used as research materials, and observations of their pollen morphologies were made using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The pollen of I. barbata consisted of a single grain, which was subspheroidal or subprolate and boat‐shaped in equatorial view and oval or nearly round in polar view. The pollen was symmetrical or radially symmetrical on both sides, and there were five types of germination furrows: monocolpate, dicolpate, monocolpate‐colpoidal, 2‐syncolpate, and parasyncolpate. The exine ornamentation was mostly crass‐reticulate and occasionally verrucate or pilate. Variation in the equatorial axis length of I. barbata pollen was the lowest, and variation in pollen morphology was stable. Q‐type cluster analysis was conducted using seven indexes: polar axis length (P), equatorial axis length (E), P/E, mesh diameter (D), net ridge width (W), D/W, and germination furrow width (WG). The 48 cultivars were divided into three groups. Three dwarf cultivars were clustered in one group, and the degree of evolution of this group was higher than that of the other two groups. This paper systematically describes the characteristics of I. barbata for the first time, and thus provides important palynological insights into the classification and cross‐breeding of I. barbata.
Proteomic profile of melanoma cell‐derived small extracellular vesicles in patients’ plasma: a potential correlate of melanoma progression
Authors: Pietrowska Monika , Zebrowska Aneta , Gawin Marta , Marczak Lukasz , Sharma Priyanka , Mondal Sujan , Mika Justyna , Polańska Joanna , Ferrone Soldano , Kirkwood John M. , Widlak Piotr , Whiteside Theresa L.
Published: February 2021

Molecular profiling of small extracellular vesicles (sEV) isolated from plasma of cancer patients emerges as promising strategy for biomarkers discovery. We investigated the proteomic profiles of sEV immunoselected using anti‐CSPG4 antibodies from 15 melanoma patients’ plasma. The proteomes of sEV separated into melanoma cell‐derived (MTEX) and non‐malignant cell‐derived (NMTEX) were compared using high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Paired analysis identified the MTEX‐associated profile of 16 proteins that discriminated MTEX from NMETEX. We also identified the MTEX profile that discriminated between seven patients with no evidence of melanoma (NED) after therapy and eight with progressive disease (PD). Among 75 MTEX proteins overexpressed in PD patients, PDCD6IP (ALIX) had the highest discriminating value, while CNTN1 (contactin‐1) was upregulated only in MTEX of NED patients. This is the first report documenting that proteomes of tumour‐derived sEV in patients’ plasma discriminate cancer from non‐cancer and identify proteins with potential to serve as prognostic biomarkers in melanoma.
Copper‐mediated nucleophilic radiofluorination of [18F]β‐CFT for positron emission tomography imaging of dopamine transporter
Authors: Yu Hung‐Man , Li Ching‐Yun , Liu Shiu‐Wen , Yang Chun‐Hung , Chang Yu
Published: February 2021

[18F]β‐CFT is a positron emission tomography (PET) ligand for imaging of dopamine transporter. It was proved to be a sensitive PET marker to detect presynaptic dopaminergic hypofunction in Parkinson's disease. In recent years, copper‐mediated 18F‐fluorination of aryl boronic esters has been successful in some molecules containing aromatic groups. In this study, we describe the novel synthetic strategy of [18F]β‐CFT by copper‐mediated nucleophilic radiofluorination with pinacol‐derived aryl boronic esters upon reaction with [18F]KF/K222 and Cu (OTf)2(py)4. The radiolabeling protocol was optimized with [18F]fluoride elution method and amount of copper catalyst used. [18F]β‐CFT is obtained from boronic ester precursors in 2.2% to 10.6% non‐isolated radiochemical yield (RCY). Purified [18F]β‐CFT with >99% radiochemical purity (RCP) and high molar activity was obtained in validation runs. The radiolabeling procedure is straightforward and can easily be adapted for clinical use.
Process validation, current good manufacturing practice production, dosimetry, and toxicity studies of the carbonic anhydrase IX imaging agent [111In]In‐XYIMSR‐01 for phase I regulatory approval
Authors: De Silva Ravindra A. , Gorin Michael A. , Mease Ronnie C. , Minn Il , Lisok Ala , Plyku Donika , Nimmagadda Sridhar , Allaf Mohamad E. , Yang Xing , Sgouros George , Rowe Steven P. , Pomper Martin G.
Published: February 2021

[111In]In‐XYIMSR‐01 is a promising single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging agent for identification of tumors that overexpress carbonic anhydrase IX. To translate [111In]In‐XYIMSR‐01 to phase I trials, we performed animal toxicity and dosimetry studies, determined the maximum dose for human use, and completed the chemistry, manufacturing, and controls component of a standard regulatory application. The production process, quality control testing, stability studies, and specifications for sterile drug product release were based on United States Pharmacopeia chapters <823> and <825>, FDA 21 CFR Part 212. Toxicity was evaluated by using nonradioactive [113/115In]In‐XYIMSR‐01 according to 21 CFR Part 58 guidelines. Organ Level INternal Dose Assessment/EXponential Modeling (OLINDA/EXM) was used to calculate the maximum single dose for human studies. Three process validation runs at starting radioactivities of ~800 MBq were completed with a minimum concentration of 407 MBq/ml and radiochemical purity of ≥99% at the end of synthesis. A single intravenous dose of 55 μg/ml of [113/115In]In‐XYIMSR‐01 was well tolerated in male and female Sprague–Dawley rats. The calculated maximum single dose for human injection from dosimetry studies was 390.35 MBq of [111In]In‐XYIMSR‐01. We have completed toxicity and dosimetry studies as well as validated a manufacturing process to test [111In]In‐XYIMSR‐01 in a phase I clinical trial.
Cytomegalovirus reactivation after hematopoietic stem cell transplant with CMV‐IG prophylaxis: A monocentric retrospective analysis
Authors: Gilioli Andrea , Messerotti Andrea , Bresciani Paola , Cuoghi Angela , Pioli Valeria , Colasante Corrado , Bettelli Francesca , Giusti Davide , Forghieri Fabio , Potenza Leonardo , Donatelli Francesca , Giubbolini Rachele , Galassi Laura , Marasca Roberto , Banchelli Federico , D'Amico Roberto , Pecorari Monica , Gennari William , Trenti Tommaso , Comoli Patrizia , Luppi Mario , Narni Franco
Published: February 2021

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) represents the most common viral infection after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), mainly occurring as reactivation from latency in seropositive patients, with a different prevalence based on the extent and timing of seroconversion in a specific population. Here, we retrospectively analyzed a cohort of patients who underwent HSCT at our Institution between 2013 and 2018, all of whom were prophylactically treated with CMV‐IG (Megalotect Biotest®), to define the incidence and clinical outcomes of CMV reactivation and clinically significant infection. CMV infection occurred in 69% of our patient series, mainly resulting from reactivation, and CMV clinically significant infection (CS‐CMVi) occurred in 48% of prophylactically treated patients. CMV infection and CS‐CMVi impacted neither on relapse incidence nor on overall survival nor on relapse‐free survival. Moreover, a very low incidence of CMV end‐organ disease was documented. CMV‐IG used alone as prophylactic therapy after HSCT does not effectively prevent CMV reactivation.
Altered intrinsic brain activity in patients with hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Cao Yuan , Wu Baolin , Chen Taolin , Diao Wei , Jia Zhiyun
Published: February 2021

Neuropsychiatric deficits are common in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC), especially in those with hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Previous studies reveal abnormalities in brain activity underlying the neuropsychiatric deficits in LC patients; however, the results are inconsistent. We conducted a meta‐analysis of resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging studies using anisotropic effect‐size signed differential mapping software on LC patients to characterize the most consistent regional activity alterations, and to evaluate the potential effect of liver transplantation (LT) on brain function. Meta‐regression analyses were performed to explore the relationship between brain alterations and clinical variables. Compared with healthy controls, the typical patterns of increased regional activity in the fronto‐striato‐cerebellar network and decreased activity in the visuo‐sensorimotor network and cingulate gyrus were identified in LC patients, which remained significant in the subgroup meta‐analyses of minimal HE (MHE) and overt HE (OHE) patients. Functional deficits in the default mode network (DMN) were found in OHE patients compared with MHE patients. Ammonia level positively correlated with brain activity in the right middle temporal gyrus, and the completion time of number connection test A negatively correlated with brain activity in the left anterior cingulate gyrus. In addition, patients showed increased activity in the visuo‐sensorimotor network and precuneus after LT. Our study suggests that alterations in the fronto‐striato‐cerebellar and visuo‐sensorimotor networks may be the potential pathophysiological mechanisms underlying HE, and deficits in the DMN may indicate the progression of HE. LT may improve brain function in the visuo‐sensorimotor network. This study has registered in the PROSPERO (CRD42020212758).
Protective role of l‐threonine against cadmium toxicity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Huang Linru , Fang Zhijia , Gao Jian , Wang Jingwen , Li Yongbin , Sun Lijun , Wang Yaling , Liao Jianmeng , Gooneratne Ravi
Published: February 2021

Environment and food contamination with cadmium (Cd) can cause serious toxicity, posing a severe threat to agricultural production and human health. However, how amino acids contribute to defenses against oxidative stress caused by Cd in cells is not fully understood. As a model eukaryote with a relatively clear genetic background, Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been commonly used in Cd toxicity research. To gain insight into Cd toxicity and cell defenses against it, 20 amino acids were screened for protective roles against Cd stress in S. cerevisiae. The results showed that threonine (Thr, T) had the strongest protective effect against Cd‐induced mortality and membrane damage in the cells. Compared to the antioxidant vitamin C (VC), Thr exhibited a higher efficacy in restoring the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity that was inhibited by Cd but not by H2O2 in vivo. Thr exhibited evident DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) activity but weak ABTS (2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐9 sulfonic acid)) scavenging activity, giving it a weaker effect against Cd‐induced lipid peroxidation and superoxide radical O2−, compared to VC. More importantly, compared to the chelating agent EDTA, Thr showed stronger chelation of Cd, giving it a stronger protective effect on SOD against Cd than VC in vitro. The results of the in vivo and in vitro experiments revealed that the role Thr plays in cell defenses against Cd may be attributed to its protection of the SOD enzyme, predominantly through the preferential chelation of Cd. Our results provide insights into the protective mechanisms of amino acid Thr that ameliorate Cd toxicity and suggest that a supplement of Thr might help to reduce Cd‐induced oxidative damage.
Artificial intelligence and CT‐based 3D statistical modeling to assess transsacral corridors and plan implant positioning
Authors: Kamer Lukas , Noser Hansrudi , Arand Charlotte , Handrich Kristin , Rommens Pol Maria , Wagner Daniel
Published: February 2021

Transsacral corridors at levels S1 and S2 represent complex osseous spaces allowing percutaneous fixation of non‐ or minimally‐displaced fragility fractures of the sacrum. To safely place transsacral implants, they must be completely intraosseous. However, standard radiographs and CT do not properly demonstrate the corridor's intricate configuration. Our goal was to facilitate the three‐dimensional assessment of transsacral corridors using artificial intelligence and the planning of transsacral implant positioning. In total, 100 pelvic CTs (49 women, mean age: 58.6 ± SD 14.8 years; 51 men, mean age: 60.7 ± SD 13 years) were used to compute a 3D statistical model of the pelvic ring. On the basis of morphologic features (=predictors) and principal components scores (=response), regression learners were interactively trained, validated, and tuned to predict/sample personalized 3D pelvic models. They were matched via thin‐plate spline transformation to a series of 20 pelvic CTs with fragility fractures of the sacrum (18 women and 2 men, age: 69–9.5 years, mean age: 78.65 ± SD 8.4 years). These models demonstrated the availability, dimension, cross‐section, and symmetry of transsacral corridors S1 and S2, as well as the planned implant position, dimension, axes, and entry and exit points. The complete intraosseous pathway was controlled in CT reconstructions. We succeeded to establish a workflow determining transsacral corridors S1 and S2 using artificial intelligence and 3D statistical modeling.