bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the effect of 3D porous Chitosan‐alginate scaffold stiffness on breast cancer proliferation and migration
Authors: Le Minh‐Chau N. , Xu Kailei , Wang Zi , Beverung Sean , Steward Robert L. , Florczyk Stephanie J.
Published: April 2021

Breast cancer (BCa) is one of the most common cancers for women and metastatic BCa causes the majority of deaths. The extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffens during cancer progression and provides biophysical signals to modulate proliferation, morphology, and metastasis. Cells utilize mechanotransduction and integrins to sense and respond to ECM stiffness. Chitosan‐alginate (CA) scaffolds have been used for 3D culture, but lack integrin binding ligands, resulting in round cell morphology and limited cell‐material interaction. In this study, 2, 4, and 6 wt% CA scaffolds were produced to mimic the stages of BCa progression and evaluate the BCa response to CA scaffold stiffness. All three CA scaffold compositions highly porous with interconnected pores and scaffold stiffness increased with increasing polymer concentration. MDA‐MB‐231 (231) cells were cultured in CA scaffolds and 2D cultures for 7 d. All CA scaffold cultures had similar cell numbers at 7 d and the 231 cells formed clusters that increased in size during the culture. The 2 wt% CA had the largest clusters throughout the 7 d culture compared with the 4 and 6 wt% CA. The 231 cell migration was evaluated on 2D surfaces after 7 d culture. The 6 wt% CA cultured cells had the greatest migration speed, followed by 4 wt% CA, 2D cultures, and 2 wt% CA. These results suggest that 231 cells sensed the stiffness of CA scaffolds without the presence of focal adhesions. This indicates that a non‐integrin‐based mechanism may explain the observed mechanotransduction response.
An organic dye containing electron‐rich cyclopentadithiophene for dye‐sensitized solar cells with an efficiency over 28% at 6,000 lux
Authors: Wubie Gebremariam Zebene , Desta Mekonnen Abebayehu , Weldekirstos Hulugirgesh Degefu , Lee Mandy M. , Wu Wen‐Ti , Li Sie‐Rong , Sun Shih‐Sheng
Published: April 2021

Two new dyes MA1114 and GZ152 were synthesized to study the effect of conjugated π‐spacers on a D‐A‐π‐A structural framework for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The thiophene and cyclopentadithiophene (CPDT) units were introduced as an extended π‐conjugation for MA1114 and GZ152 dyes, respectively. The DSSCs based on GZ152 dye achieved an efficiency of 8.61% under standard one sun irradiation and 28.31% under 6,000 lux illumination. Introducing an electron‐rich CPDT as the extended π‐conjugated spacer prevails a broad absorption spectral profile, a high dye loading, and an excellent injection efficiency, which all contribute to excellent device performance.
Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling and Simulations of Imipenem in Burn Patients With and Without Continuous Venovenous Hemofiltration in the Military Health System
Authors: Por Elaine D. , Akers Kevin S. , Chung Kevin K. , Livezey Jeffrey R. , Selig Daniel J.
Published: April 2021

Continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) is a life‐sustaining procedure in patients with severe burns and acute kidney injury. Physiologic changes from burn injury and use of CVVH may alter imipenem pharmacokinetics (PK). We aimed to compare imipenem clearance (CL) in burn patients with and without CVVH, determine the effect of burn on imipenem volume of distribution (CVVH, n = 12; no CVVH, n = 11), in combination with previously published models. Model qualification was performed with standard diagnostics and comparing predicted PK parameters/time‐concentration profiles with those in the existing literature. Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to evaluate the probability of target attainment. A 2‐compartment model best described the data. Utilizing albumin as a covariate on volume parameters and leveraging the clearance model from prior literature, our model predicted imipenem central volume and CL within a 10% margin of error across healthy, renally impaired, and burn populations. We provide direct comparison of imipenem CL in burn patients with and without CVVH. Notably, there was no significant difference. Large imipenem Vd in patients with severe burns is likely explained by increased capillary permeability, for which serum albumin may be a reasonable surrogate. Dosing 500 mg every 6 hours is adequate for burn patients on renally dosed CVVH; however, suspicion of augmented renal clearance or patients placed on CVVH without renal impairment may necessitate dosing of 1000 mg every 6 hours.
Benefits and limitations of telegenetics: A literature review
Authors: Gorrie Anita , Gold Judy , Cameron Carolyn , Krause Molly , Kincaid Helen
Published: April 2021

Telegenetics involves the use of technology (generally video conferencing) to remotely provide genetic services. A telegenetics platform is critical for those with limitations or vulnerabilities compromising their ability to attend clinic in‐person, including individuals in rural areas. As the demand for remote genetics services increases, and amidst the COVID‐19 pandemic with social distancing practices in place, we conducted a literature review to examine the benefits and limitations of telegenetics and explore the views of patients and health professionals utilizing telegenetics. Searches of the PubMed database identified 21 relevant primary studies for inclusion. The majority of studies found acceptability of telegenetics to be high among patients and health professionals and that telegenetics provided access to genetics services for underserved communities. The main benefits cited include cost‐effectiveness and reduction in travel time for genetics services providing outreach clinics and patients who would otherwise travel long distances to access genetics. Patients appreciated the convenience of telegenetics including the reduced wait times, although a minority of patients reported their psychosocial needs were not adequately met. Eight studies compared outcomes between telegenetics and in‐person services; findings suggested when comparing telegenetics patients to their in‐person counterparts, telegenetics patients had a similar level of knowledge and understanding of genetics and similar psychological outcomes. Some studies reported challenges related to establishing rapport and reading and responding to verbal cues via telegenetics, while technical issues were not generally found to be a major limitation. Some service adaptations, for example, counseling strategies, may be required to successfully deliver telegenetics. Further research may be necessary to gather and examine data on how telegenetics outcomes compare to that of in‐person genetic counseling and adapt services accordingly.
Development, validation, and comparison of a nomogram based on radiologic findings for predicting malignancy in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas: An international multicenter study
Authors: Kim Hyeong Seok , Song Wookyeong , Choo Wonho , Lee Sungyoung , Han Youngmin , Bassi Claudio , Salvia Roberto , Marchegiani Giovanni , Wolfgang Christopher L. , He Jin , Blair Alex B. , Kluger Michael D. , Su Gloria H. , Kim Song Cheol , Song Ki‐Byung , Yamamoto Masakazu , Hatori Takashi , Yang Ching‐Yao , Yamaue Hiroki , Hirono Seiko , Satoi Sohei , Fujii Tsutomu , Hirano Satoshi , Lou Wenhui , Hashimoto Yasushi , Shimizu Yasuhiro , Del Chiaro Marco , Valente Roberto , Lohr Matthias , Choi Dong Wook , Choi Seong Ho , Heo Jin Seok , Motoi Fuyuhiko , Matsumoto Ippei , Lee Woo Jung , Kang Chang Moo , Shyr Yi‐Ming , Wang Shin‐E , Han Ho‐Seong , Yoon Yoo‐Seok , Besselink Marc G. , van Huijgevoort Nadine C. M. , Sho Masayuki , Nagano Hiroaki , Kim Sang Geol , Honda Goro , Yang Yinmo , Yu Hee Chul , Yang Jae Do , Chung Jun Chul , Nagakawa Yuichi , Seo Hyung Il , Lee Seungyeoun , Kim Hongbeom , Kwon Wooil , Park Taesung , Jang Jin‐Young
Published: April 2021

Background

Although we previously proposed a nomogram to predict malignancy in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) and validated it in an external cohort, its application is challenging without data on tumor markers. Moreover, existing nomograms have not been compared. This study aimed to develop a nomogram based on radiologic findings and to compare its performance with previously proposed American and Korean/Japanese nomograms.

Methods

We recruited 3708 patients who underwent surgical resection at 31 tertiary institutions in eight countries, and patients with main pancreatic duct >10 mm were excluded. To construct the nomogram, 2606 patients were randomly allocated 1:1 into training and internal validation sets, and area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) was calculated using 10‐fold cross validation by exhaustive search. This nomogram was then validated and compared to the American and Korean/Japanese nomograms using 1102 patients.

Results

Among the 2606 patients, 90 had main‐duct type, 900 had branch‐duct type, and 1616 had mixed‐type IPMN. Pathologic results revealed 1628 low‐grade dysplasia, 476 high‐grade dysplasia, and 502 invasive carcinoma. Location, cyst size, duct dilatation, and mural nodule were selected to construct the nomogram. AUC of this nomogram was higher than the American nomogram (0.691 vs 0.664, P = .014) and comparable with the Korean/Japanese nomogram (0.659 vs 0.653, P = .255).

Conclusions

A novel nomogram based on radiologic findings of IPMN is competitive for predicting risk of malignancy. This nomogram would be clinically helpful in circumstances where tumor markers are not available. The nomogram is freely available at http://statgen.snu.ac.kr/software/nomogramIPMN.
Design of experiments for development and optimization of a liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry bioanalytical assay
Authors: Thorsteinsdóttir Unnur Arna , Thorsteinsdóttir Margrét
Published: April 2021

Design of experiments (DoE) is a valuable tool for the optimization of quantitative bioanalytical methods utilizing liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC–MS) is composed of several processes, including, liquid introduction and analyte ionization. The goal is to transfer analytes from atmospheric pressure to vacuum and maintain conditions that are compatible for both LC and MS. These processes involve many experimental factors which need to be simultaneously optimized to obtain maximum sensitivity and resolution at minimum retention time. In this tutorial, the basic concepts of DoE will be explained with focus on practical use of DoE. Three case studies optimized with DoE for liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) quantitative assays will then be presented.
Molecular and clinical epidemiological features of human astrovirus infections in children with acute gastroenteritis in Shandong province, China
Authors: Huang Deyu , Wang Zheng , Zhang Fengjuan , Wang Ting , Zhang Guanyou , Sai Lintao
Published: April 2021

Human astrovirus (HAstV) is one of the most common causative agents of acute gastroenteritis in children with an infection rate estimated to range from 2% to 9% worldwide. This study was aimed at investigating the molecular and clinical epidemiological features of human astrovirus infections in children under 5 years old with acute gastroenteritis in Shandong province, China from July 2017 to June 2018. In total, 376 fecal samples and the corresponding clinical information were collected and analyzed. HAstV infections were detected in all age groups with an overall positive rate of 8.51%. In addition to acute diarrhea, the main clinical manifestations were fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, and dehydration, in which fever was the most common complication. Infections could be seen throughout the year with a peak in the colder season. Four genotypes were detected in which HAstV‐1 was the most prevalent genotype with a prevalence of 78.12%, followed by HAstV‐5 (9.38%), MLB‐1 (9.38%), and MLB‐2 (3.12%). HAstV‐1 strains were classified as lineage 1a, 1b, and 1d, in which lineage 1a strains were the most prevalent followed by lineage 1b and lineage 1d strains. All HAstV‐5 strains were classified as lineage 5b and no other lineages were detected. The results showed that HAstV infection was an important cause of acute gastroenteritis among children under 5 years old in Shandong province. Given that their disease spectrum had been broadened, HAstVs should be paid more attention, not only as a causative agent of acute gastroenteritis but also as a potential pathogen of unexpected diseases.
Home parenteral nutrition in older vs younger patients: Clinical characteristics and outcomes
Authors: Daoud Dane Christina , Cartagena Elena M. S. , Schwenger Katherine J. P. , Somlaw Nicha , Gramlich Leah , Whittaker Scott , Armstrong David , Jurewitsch Brian , Raman Matreyi , Duerksen Donald R. , McHattie James D. , Allard Johane P.
Published: April 2021

Background

There is a demographic shift toward older patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN), but data on clinical outcomes are limited. The objective of this study was to determine differences between older and younger HPN patients in regard to HPN indications, prescriptions, and outcomes over the first 2 years receiving HPN.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from HPN adult patients entered in the Canadian HPN Registry. New HPN patients enrolled between 2003 and 2017 and receiving HPN for at least 2 years were selected. Data included demographics, PN prescriptions, catheter‐related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) over the past year, survival, and quality of life based on Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS).

Results

Four hundred two patients were included: 184 patients were ≥60 years old, and 219 patients were between 18 and 59 years old. There were no differences in the main indications for HPN, body mass index (BMI), and PN prescriptions at baseline. At 2 years, younger patients received more energy from PN than older patients (27.9 vs 19.6 kcal/kg; P < .001), but BMI remained comparable. There were fewer CRBSIs in the older group (20% vs 36%, P = .0023), but 78% of younger patients remained alive vs 69% in the older group (P = .0401). In those alive, the proportion of patients continuing to receive HPN was comparable and the proportion of patients with a KPS ≥60.

Conclusions

Older HPN patients have similar clinical characteristics as younger patients but have fewer CRBSIs and higher 2‐year mortality.
An optimized organic acid human sensory sourness analysis method
Authors: Mao Yuezhong , Tian Shiyi , Qin Yumei , Cheng Shiwen
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Sour taste perception builds on both chemical and physiological foundations, and plays an important role in food flavor, including that of fruit, beer, wine, and other beverages. A uniform sourness standard and sourness conversion method for researchers and food enterprises is necessary to obtain uniform conclusions.

RESULTS

This study established an optimized organic acid sensory sourness analysis and sourness conversion method. It is based on sour sensory difference strength curves, which consist of an absolute threshold value and sensory difference threshold values. Defining the absolute threshold value of citric acid sourness as 1, sourness could be calculated according to the curve. With a logarithmic curve form, the acid sourness indexes (AI) were calculated as 1, 0.74, 0.77, 1.31, and 1.21 for citric, malic, fumaric, lactic, and tartaric acid samples, respectively. Consequently, each acid's sourness and concentration could be obtained and converted. Single acid and mixed acid sourness comparison evaluation's result implied that the novel method was more accurate (91.7–100%) than the hydrogen ion concentration method.

CONCLUSION

The novel sourness determination and conversion equation would provide more accurate sourness standard and calculation method in food sensory areas. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Analytical capabilities of micellar liquid chromatography and application to residue and contaminant analysis: A review
Authors: Patyra Ewelina , Kwiatek Krzysztof
Published: April 2021

Green chemistry is the use of chemistry to reduce or eliminate the use of generation of feedstocks, products, by‐products, solvents, reagents, etc. that are hazardous to human health or the environment. One of the branches of green chemistry is micellar liquid chromatography. Micellar liquid chromatography is a reversed‐phase liquid chromatographic mode with mobile phases containing a surfactant above its critical micellar concentration. The applications of micellar liquid chromatography for the determination of numerous compounds in pharmaceutical formulation, biological samples, food, environmental samples, and feeds have been growing rapidly. Micellar liquid chromatography technique has several advantages over other chromatographic techniques. Its main advantage is the small amount of organic modifiers used such as acetonitrile and methanol and the safety and recyclability of the mobile phase. In our work, we discuss the development of “green chemistry” and present what micellar liquid chromatography is. This article presents application methods with the use of micellar liquid chromatography for analysis on antibacterial substances, melamine, biogenic amines, plant protection products, flavonoids, as well as peptides in biological matrices such as milk, eggs, tissues, honey, and feed.
Characterization of galacto‐oligosaccharides using high‐performance anion exchange chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen Yongjing , Liu Yan
Published: April 2021

The analysis of complex oligosaccharide mixtures remains a challenge in the field of analytical chemistry. In this work, two commercial galacto‐oligosaccharides samples were characterized using high‐performance anion exchange chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The isomeric oligosaccharides were resolved with high resolution. The structures of the individual isomers with a degree of polymerization up to 6 were analyzed using targeted selected ion monitoring with data‐dependent tandem mass spectrometry, with additional in‐source collision‐induced dissociation.
Inverted Nasal Papilloma Affecting Ears and Pulmonary Parenchyma: Case Report
Authors: Vieira Tiago Fraga , de Castro Denaro Mariana Moreira , da Silva Camila Braz Rodrigues , de Pinho Lilia Gama , Ferreira Luiza Costa Villela , Coelho Luis Eduardo Ribeiro , de Castro Mirian Cabral Moreira
Published: April 2021

Inverted papilloma is a rare sinonasal neoplasm. It can be locally invasive and potentially degenerate to a malignant tumor.

We present a case report of a 36‐year‐old woman who was treated for nasal inverted papilloma for over 10 years and presented bilateral temporal bone, and pulmonary involvement. Several procedures were performed to completely remove the tumor. Even without evidence of malignant degeneration, the patient continued battling tumor recurrences. To the best of our knowledge, this report presents the first case of a multicentric inverted papilloma with nasal, bilateral temporal bone, and pulmonary metachronous localization. Laryngoscope, 131:E2640–E2642, 2021
Knowledge production on predatory publishing: A systematic review
Authors: Mertkan Sefika , Onurkan Aliusta Gulen , Suphi Nilgun
Published: April 2021

The systematic review of the research reported in this paper was conducted within the context of efforts to understand and combat predatory publishing, a new but fast‐growing area of research. It synthesizes the trends observed in knowledge production in predatory publishing, with a particular focus on the volume and distribution over time within different journals. It also looks at the composition of the predatory publishing literature in terms of the type of study, methods, topics, field of study, and contexts where research was conducted. Data were extracted from ERIC, Web of Science, and Scopus and identified 228 articles for evaluation published in 171 journals. The results demonstrate that the literature on predatory publishing is new but fast growing, with 88.6% of studies published since 2016. Only 37.3% reported empirical research, and the majority of these were quantitative studies with weak statistical tests. Medical journals carried the most articles. We conclude that scholarship on predatory publishing is in the early stages of development, and it is thinly distributed across journals, fields, and research contexts. It was surprising to find no studies in leading higher education journals, and this study reveals a research area that is still developing.
Dynamic macromolecular composition and high exudation rates in Prochlorococcus
Authors: Roth‐Rosenberg Dalit , Aharonovich Dikla , Omta Anne Willem , Follows Michael J. , Sher Daniel
Published: April 2021

Every living cell is composed of macromolecules such as proteins, DNA, RNA, and pigments. The ratio between these macromolecular pools depends on the allocation of resources within the organism to different physiological requirements, and in turn affects biogeochemical cycles of elements such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Here, we present detailed measurements of the macromolecular composition of Prochlorococcus MIT9312, a representative strain of a globally abundant marine primary producer, as it grows and declines due to nitrogen starvation in laboratory batch cultures. As cells reached stationary stage and declined, protein per cell decreased by ~ 30% whereas RNA per cell and pigments per cell decreased by ~ 75%. The decline stage was associated with the appearance of chlorotic cells, which had higher forward scatter (a proxy for cell size) but lower chlorophyll autofluorescence, as well as with changes in photosynthetic pigment composition. Specifically, during culture decline divinyl‐chlorophyll‐like pigments emerged, which were not observed during exponential growth. These divinyl‐chlorophyll‐like pigments were also observed in natural samples from the Eastern Mediterranean. Over 90% of the carbon fixed by Prochlorococcus MIT9312 (but not of a different strain, NATL2A) was released into the growth media under these laboratory conditions. Variations in RNA/protein indicate that, broadly defined, the macromolecular composition of Prochlorococcus MIT9312 is more similar to eukaryotic phytoplankton than to marine heterotrophic bacteria, possibly due to the significant investment in photosynthetic machinery of phototrophs.
Acceleration Effect of Dynamic Covalent Chains in a Hard Epoxy Resin on Its Thermally Induced Deformation and Healing Behavior
Authors: Fu Jiajia , Zhao Yang , Zhang Lei , Fu Feiya , Liu Xiangdong
Published: April 2021

The dynamic covalent chain polyester oligomer PCG5 is prepared and applied to epoxy thermoset. Preliminary tests including pattern stamping, healing, shape memory, indentation, and adhesion test of the cured epoxy resin show that PCG5 can accelerate deformation, crack‐healing, and transesterification rates at high temperatures. The transesterification rate and activation energy are quantitatively determined by a newly developed TGA method in the authors' group. This method is used to further realize a virtual acceleration mechanism of PCG5 in the transesterification reaction with cured epoxy resins, pointing out that the increase in cross‐link density and ester concentration improves the mobility of structure units and collision of ester groups. Moreover, introduction of PCG5 doesn't sacrifice glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the cured epoxy resin and strengthens the fiber composites. An 85% recovery in storage modulus and an 88% recovery in tensile strength are achieved after 10 000 cycle's fatigue tests.
Riemann problem for a two‐dimensional steady pressureless relativistic Euler equations
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhang Yanyan
Published: April 2021

We consider the Riemann problem for a two‐dimensional steady pressureless relativistic Euler equations. The delta shock wave is discovered in the Riemann solutions. It is shown that Dirac delta function develops in the state variable describing the number density of particles. By virtue of a suitable generalized Rankine–Hugoniot relation and entropy condition, we establish the existence and uniqueness for delta‐shock solution. Furthermore, we analyze in detail the interactions of delta shock waves and vacuum states.
Factors Associated with Headache and Nausea During Magnetic Resonance–Guided Focused Ultrasound for Tremor
Authors: Cacho‐Asenjo Elena , Honorato‐Cia Cristina , Nuñez‐Cordoba Jorge M. , Fernandez‐Martinez Miguel , Gonzalez‐Quarante Lain H. , Aviles‐Olmos Iciar , Gorospe María Aranzazu , Panadero Alfredo , Rodríguez‐Oroz María Cruz , Guridi Jorge , Martinez‐Simon Antonio
Published: April 2021

Background

During magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound for essential or parkinsonian tremor, adverse events (headache, nausea/vomiting, or anxiety) may alter the outcome of the procedure despite being mostly transient and mild.

Objectives

Our aim was to analyze the relationship between demographic, procedural, and anesthetic characteristics with magnetic resonance/ultrasound‐related events.

Methods

This was a retrospective study at the Clinica Universidad de Navarra of patients undergoing thalamotomy with magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound between September 2018 and October 2019. The anesthesia protocol included headache and nausea/vomiting prophylaxis and rescue therapy. Dexmedetomidine was used for anxiolysis in some patients after thorough multidisciplinary assessment.

Results

A total of 123 patients were included. Headache was directly related to skull density ratio (P < 0.001) and skull thickness (P = 0.02). Patients with a skull density ratio less than 0.48 had 3 times the odds of experiencing moderate or severe headache (odds ratio [OR], 3.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21–7.82) and had a higher odds of aborting sonication due to pain. Sex was associated with increased nausea (P = 0.007). Women had 4 times the odds of nausea than men (OR, 4.4; 95% CI, 1.61–12.11). Dexmedetomidine did not reduce headache or nausea incidence. Patients who received dexmedetomidine had a higher number (P = 0.01) and total minutes of sonication (P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Patients with lower skull density ratios and higher skull thicknesses could benefit from an aggressive analgesic prophylaxis. Women are more likely to experience nausea. Dexmedetomidine did not reduce headache and nausea, but increased the number and duration of sonications. Its exact effect on tremor is still unclear.
Recycling water and sludge disposal efficiency in China's sewage treatment industry
Authors: Li Xiao‐Ning , Feng Ying , Chiu Yung‐Ho , Lin Tai‐Yu , Chiu Shih‐Yung
Published: April 2021

This study uses the modified dynamic SBM (slack‐based measures) method to evaluate the wastewater treatment efficiency and sludge treatment efficiency of various province regions in China. Findings show that although the efficiency of reclaimed water and sludge disposal in China's sewage treatment industry continued to increase, it was still insufficient, meaning this industry has a lot of room for improvement here. From the regional perspective, the treatment efficiency of reclaimed water and sludge in this industry in the eastern region is the best, whereas the performances in the western region are better than those in the central region.
Comparing digital replantation versus revision amputation patient reported outcomes for traumatic digital amputations of the hand: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Stone Nicholas , Shah Ajay , Chin Brian , McKinnon Victoria , McRae Matthew
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Adults with traumatic digital amputation (TDA) of the hand may be managed with replantation or revision amputation. To date, there is no systematic review evaluating patient reported outcomes (PROs) comparing replantation versus revision amputation.

Methods

Three databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed) were systematically searched in duplicate from inception until June 13, 2019 using Covidence software. Studies comparing replantation versus revision amputation outcomes were considered for inclusion. Methodological quality was assessed using Methodologic Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. Data were pooled in a random‐effects meta‐analysis model using Revman software. Certainty of evidence was evaluated using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE).

Results

Of 4350 studies identified, 12 retrospective cohort studies met inclusion criteria and compared TDA outcomes for replantation (n = 717; 82.9% male; mean age 40.3) versus revision amputation (n = 1046; 79.8% male; mean age 41.7). The overall replantation survival rate was 85.3%. The average MINORS score was 57% (13.75/24). Replantation of the thumb had a superior Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) score (+11.88, 95% CI [7.78–15.99], I2 = 21%) compared with revision amputation. Replantation of single non‐thumb digits had a superior MHQ score (+5.31, 95% CI [3.10–7.51], I2 = 67%) and Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score (−5.16, 95% CI [−8.27 to −2.06], I2 = 0%) compared with revision amputation. Most patients in the meta‐analysis were from Asian populations (87.9%).

Conclusion

There is low‐quality evidence that thumb replantation achieves superior PROs compared with revision amputation, which may be clinically important. Replantation of single non‐thumb digits also yielded superior PROs, which is likely not clinically important and based on very low‐quality evidence. Future studies with populations outside Asia are required to determine if PROs vary based on cultural differences toward digital amputation.
High‐power, continuous‐wave optical parametric oscillator based on MgO:sPPLT crystal
Authors: Deng Lihua , Yu Yongji , Chang Aolei , Chen Jiansheng , Wang Peng , Tan Huiming , Wu Xiaodong , Yao Wenming , Gao Jing
Published: April 2021

A high power, high‐conversion‐efficiency, and tunable continuous‐wave external cavity pump singly resonant optical parametric oscillator (OPO) was proposed in this article. This OPO was based on multi‐grating MgO‐doped stoichiometric periodically poled LiTaO3 (MgO:sPPLT) and pumped with 532 nm continuous wave fiber laser. The MgO:sPPLT‐OPO could provide near‐infrared radiation across 821–879 nm in the signal and 1352–1515 nm in the idler within four grating periods of 8.3–8.6 μm. When the pump power was 5.4 W, the maximum pump‐to‐signal conversion efficiency could reach 57.5% at 821 nm. The output power extended to 5.9 W in each period when the pump power reaches 13.6 W.
Quantification of lung water density with UTE Yarnball MRI
Authors: Meadus William Quinn , Stobbe Robert W. , Grenier Justin G. , Beaulieu Christian , Thompson Richard B.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

An efficient Yarnball ultrashort‐TE k‐space trajectory, in combination with an optimized pulse sequence design and automated image‐processing approach, is proposed for fast and quantitative imaging of water density in the lung parenchyma.

Methods

Three‐dimensional Yarnball k‐space trajectories (TE = 0.07 ms) were designed at 3 T for breath‐hold and free‐breathing navigator acquisitions targeting the lung parenchyma (full torso spatial coverage) with minimal T1 and weighting. A composite of all solid tissues surrounding the lungs (muscle, liver, heart, blood pool) was used for user‐independent lung water density signal referencing and B1‐inhomogeneity correction needed for the calculation of relative lung water density images. Sponge phantom experiments were used to validate absolute water density quantification, and relative lung water density was evaluated in 10 healthy volunteers.

Results

Phantom experiments showed excellent agreement between sponge wet weight and imaging‐derived water density. Breath‐hold (13 seconds) and free‐breathing (~2 minutes) Yarnball acquisitions in volunteers (2.5‐mm isotropic resolution) had negligible artifacts and good lung parenchyma SNR (>10). Whole‐lung average relative lung water density values with fully automated analysis were 28.2 ± 1.9% and 28.6 ± 1.8% for breath‐hold and free‐breathing acquisitions, respectively, with good test–retest reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.86 and 0.95, respectively).

Conclusions

Quantitative lung water density imaging with an optimized Yarnball k‐space acquisition approach is possible in a breath‐hold or short free‐breathing study with automated signal referencing and segmentation.
Use of isotonic contrast solution in the artificial urinary sphincter does not impact device longevity
Authors: Inouye Brian M. , Boysen William R. , Barton Gregory J. , Peterson Andrew C.
Published: April 2021

Aims

The artificial urinary sphincter (AUS), the gold standard for treatment of male stress urinary incontinence, can be filled with normal saline (NS) or isotonic contrast solution. Surgeons have voiced concerns about the impact on device malfunction and longevity, but no studies address this issue. We used industry data to identify differences in outcomes between NS and contrast‐filled AUS.

Methods

Our analysis included all men patients in the industry who maintained the AUS database (Boston Scientific) from 2001 to 2016. Patients were divided into two groups: AUS filled with NS or contrast. Patient demographics and device characteristics were compared. Device survival was defined as time to the need for reoperation. We compared device survival between AUS filled with NS versus contrast using a Kaplan–Meier curve adjusted for age, cuff size, and pressure regulating balloon (PRB) size.

Results

A total of 39,363 patients were included. 34,674 (88.1%) devices were filled with NS. The reoperation rate overall was 24.5%, with no difference between groups. The mean time to reoperation overall was 3 years (±3.0). After adjustment for age, cuff size, and PRB size, Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated a similar time to reoperation between the two groups.

Conclusion

The use of contrast in the AUS does not appear to change rates of the device malfunction, fluid loss, or need for reoperation. Since filling the device with contrast does not appear inferior to saline in terms of longevity, we feel this should be considered a safe tool for the implanting surgeon.
High prevalence of lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with Prader–Willi syndrome
Authors: Chao Tze‐Chen , Yang Stephen S.‐D. , Chang Shang‐Jen , Tsai Li‐Ping
Published: April 2021

Aims

To report the first noninvasive urodynamic screening of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in children, adolescents, and young adults with Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS).

Methods

We recruited 37 PWS patients with/without lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) from our hospital. Uroflowmetry was performed in 36 patients. In addition, 20 patients underwent postvoid residual urine (PVR) measurement by transabdominal ultrasound. LUTD is defined as abnormal uroflow patterns, low peak flow rate (Qmax), or elevated PVR by age. Videourodynamic study (VUDS) was performed in selected cases.

Results

Mean and median age of the patients were 17.7 ± 7.8 years and 16 years. Male to female ratio was 15/22. Two patients were excluded from the following analysis because of voided volume less than or equal to 50 ml. Of the remaining 34 uroflowmetry examination, normal voiding pattern (bell shape) was observed in 22 (64.7%) patients. Abnormal uroflowmetry pattern were obstructive in 6 (17.6%), staccato in 3 (8.8%), intermittent in 2 (5.8%), tower in 1 (2.9%), and plateau in 0 patients. Ten (29.4%) patients had a Qmax less than 15 ml/s. Of 20 patients undergoing PVR tests 10 (50%) had elevated PVR by age ( > 6% of estimated bladder volume). In all, 17/34 (50.0%) PWS patients had at least one abnormality of the noninvasive tests. Of the three cases undergoing VUDS all showed detrusor sphincter dyssynergia.

Conclusions

Half of PWS patients with/without LUTS had LUTD. Noninvasive study such as uroflowmetry and postvoid residual urine by ultrasound is recommended to all patients with PWS.
Submodeling in wear predictive finite element models with multipoint contacts
Authors: Curreli Cristina , Viceconti Marco , Di Puccio Francesca
Published: April 2021

The application of the submodeling technique to finite element (FE) wear analyses has been recently proposed as an efficient solution to reduce the computational cost of the simulations and provide accurate numerical results. However, the method was validated only on single point contact cases. The present study proposes a generalization of the wear submodeling procedure that can be used to speed up FE wear simulations with multipoint contacts. The modified global–local procedure is applied and evaluated on a double contact pin on plate wear test using three‐dimensional models developed in Ansys® mechanical APDL. Three different model geometries with different curvature radii at the contact regions were considered in order to replicate possible critical scenarios. Results suggest that an additional wear simulation step where the global model is used to simulate the first wear cycles is needed to correctly transfer the boundary conditions to the local models. The new proposed strategy demonstrates the possibility to extend the method to more general FE wear simulations by significantly reducing their computational cost.
Institutional antecedents of public service motivation: Administrative regime and sector of economy
Authors: Prysmakova Palina
Published: April 2021

New findings on public service motivation in the public sector often contradict the previous ones. Such deviations are regularly explained by the uniqueness of the institutional settings of the sample. Yet, only few studies have compared PSM across different institutional environments; even less is known about nonprofit employees. We can only speculate that their institutional antecedents of PSM resemble their public counterparts because of the public benefit orientation of their work. Utilizing a Most Similar Systems Design method to test the institutional propositions on a sample of public and nonprofit employees from two different institutional environments, the present study confirms that (a) PSM variation of public employees across different countries can be explained by a state‐level institutional variation, and (b) for PSM of nonprofit employees, the institutional environment of a country may be irrelevant. The results confirm earlier propositions of the sectoral differences of PSM and urge us to revisit the generalizability of the previous findings of PSM relationships because they can be limited by the similarity of the observed systems.
It Can Wait
Authors: Duma Narjust
Published: April 2021

Prioritizing self-care over the ever-present to-do list is important, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as this narrative describes.
Tailoring fineness and content of nylon‐6 nanofibers for reinforcing optically transparent poly(methyl methacrylate) composites
Authors: Li Biyun , Wei Shuo , Xuan Hongyun , Xue Ye , Yuan Huihua
Published: April 2021

Nanofibers offer great potential for improving the mechanical performance of optically transparent composites without compromising transparency. To achieve this, the reinforcing nanofibers must be thinner than the low end of the visible light spectrum (400 nm). Herein, a self‐mixing co‐electrospinning approach was employed to prepare electrospun meshes of well‐blended nylon‐6 (PA‐6) nanofibers and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) fibers, from which composite films containing PA‐6 nanofibers with varied diameters (approximately 100–800 nm) and mass fractions (1–7 wt%) were fabricated by hot‐press molding. When the PA‐6 nanofiber content was less than 5 wt%, the mechanical properties of the PA‐6/PMMA composite remarkably improved compared to those of neat PMMA, without considerably influencing its transparency. Furthermore, the thermal stability of the PA‐6/PMMA composite was clearly improved compared to that of neat PMMA. These results suggest that this material has the potential for wider adoption in applications requiring both transparency and high mechanical properties.
The effect of carbon nanotube addition on the mechanical properties and biological functionality of poly‐ether‐ether‐ketone–hydroxyapatite composites
Authors: Rashidi Elham , Rezaie Hamidreza , Ghassai Hossein
Published: April 2021

This study examines the effect of functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotube (CNTs) dispersion on mechanical properties of poly‐ether‐ether‐ketone–hydroxyapatite–carbon nanotubes (PEEK‐HAP‐CNTs) nanocomposite. The nanocomposites have been fabricated for biomedical applications using a melt processing at 400°C. The results showed that CNTs increase the effective contact area between PEEK and HAP in the nanocomposite. The addition of 0.1 wt% CNTs to the composite led to an elastic modulus and compressive strength improvement for 13% and 31% compared to PEEK‐HAP. The scanning electron microscopy images showed the microstructure of the composites. The results of cell attachment, alkaline phosphatase, spreading, proliferation, and alizarin red tests showed that adding CNT into the composite improved the function of MG‐63 cells. In conclusion, PEEK‐HA‐CNT is more suitable to be used as an implant material than PEEK and PEEK‐HA composites.
First trimester fetal proportion volumetric measurements using a Virtual Reality approach
Authors: Wiertsema Clarissa J. , Erkamp Jan S. , Mulders Annemarie G. M. G. J. , Steegers Eric A. P. , Duijts Liesbeth , Koning Anton H. J. , Gaillard Romy , Jaddoe Vincent W. V.
Published: April 2021

Objective

To establish feasibility and reproducibility of fetal proportion volumetric measurements, using three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound and a Virtual Reality (VR) system.

Methods

Within a population‐based prospective birth cohort, 3D ultrasound datasets of 50 fetuses in the late first trimester were collected by three ultrasonographers in a single research center. V‐scope software was used for volumetric measurements of total fetus, extremities, head‐trunk, head, trunk, thorax, and abdomen. All measurements were performed independently by two researchers. Intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility were analyzed using Bland and Altman methods.

Results

Intraobserver and interobserver analyses of volumetric measurements of total fetus, head‐trunk, head, trunk, thorax and abdomen showed intraclass correlation coefficients above 0.979, coefficients of variation below 7.51% and mean difference below 3.44%. The interobserver limits of agreement were within the ±10% range for volumetric measurements of total fetus, head–trunk, head and trunk. The interobserver limits of agreement for extremities, thorax and abdomen were −26.09% to 4.77%, −14.14% to 10.00% and −14.47% to 8.83%, respectively.

Conclusion

First trimester fetal proportion volumetric measurements using 3D ultrasound and VR are feasible and reproducible, except volumetric measurements of the fetal extremities. These novel volumetric measurements may be used in future research to enable detailed studies on first trimester fetal development and growth.
Resourcing, annotating, and analysing synthetic peptides of SARS‐CoV‐2 for immunopeptidomics and other immunological studies
Authors: Li Chen , Revote Jerico , Ramarathinam Sri H. , Chung Shan Zou , Croft Nathan P. , Scull Katherine E. , Huang Ziyi , Ayala Rochelle , Braun Asolina , Mifsud Nicole A. , Illing Patricia T. , Faridi Pouya , Purcell Anthony W.
Published: April 2021

SARS‐CoV‐2 has caused a significant ongoing pandemic worldwide. A number of studies have examined the T cell mediated immune responses against SARS‐CoV‐2, identifying potential T cell epitopes derived from the SARS‐CoV‐2 proteome. Such studies will aid in identifying targets for vaccination and immune monitoring. In this study, we applied tandem mass spectrometry and proteomic techniques to a library of ∼40,000 synthetic peptides, in order to generate a large dataset of SARS‐CoV‐2 derived peptide MS/MS spectra. On this basis, we built an online knowledgebase, termed virusMS (https://virusms.erc.monash.edu/), to document, annotate and analyse these synthetic peptides and their spectral information. VirusMS incorporates a user‐friendly interface to facilitate searching, browsing and downloading the database content. Detailed annotations of the peptides, including experimental information, peptide modifications, predicted peptide‐HLA (human leukocyte antigen) binding affinities, and peptide MS/MS spectral data, are provided in virusMS.
Stereotactic body radiotherapy for pulmonary oligometastases as an initial metastasis‐directed therapy: patterns of relapse and predictive factors for early mortality
Authors: Yamamoto Takaya , Niibe Yuzuru , Aoki Masahiko , Onishi Hiroshi , Yamada Kazunari , Shintani Takashi , Yamashita Hideomi , Kobayashi Mitsuru , Oh Ryoong‐Jin , Jingu Keiichi
Published: April 2021

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the early mortality rates and patterns of relapse after stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) as an initial metastasis‐directed therapy.

Methods

Patients with pulmonary oligometastases initially treated with SBRT were included in this retrospective multicenter study. SBRT was performed between 2004 and 2015, and the primary lesion was controlled at the time of SBRT. Multivariate logistic regression was used for early mortality analyses.

Results

A total of 720 patients with 793 oligometastatic tumors for whom the median follow‐up period was 24.6 months were enrolled. The median overall survival period was 53.2 months. The 90‐, 180‐, and 360‐day mortality rates were 1.1% (8 deaths), 2.4% (17 deaths), and 10.8% (71 deaths), respectively. During follow up, 422 patients relapsed. Over 329 patients had single‐site relapse, the most frequent site was the lung in 176; 49 had local failure; and 42 had lymph node metastases. The maximum tumor diameter was significantly related to 90‐day mortality. Maximum tumor diameter, biological effective dose, and performance status were significantly related to 180‐day mortality, whereas maximum tumor diameter, performance status, and pathology were significantly related to 360‐day mortality.

Conclusion

Our results showed good survival outcomes and low rates of early mortality after SBRT. The patterns of relapse and factors affecting early mortality were revealed.
Knockout of c‐Cbl slows EGFR endocytic trafficking and enhances EGFR signaling despite incompletely blocking receptor ubiquitylation
Authors: Crotchett Brandon L. M. , Ceresa Brian P.
Published: April 2021

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activity is necessary and sufficient for corneal epithelial homeostasis. However, the addition of exogenous Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) does not reliably restore the corneal epithelium when wounded. This is likely due to high levels of endogenous EGF in tear fluid as well as desensitization of the EGFR following ligand stimulation. We hypothesize that preventing receptor downregulation is an alternative mechanism to enhance EGFR signaling and promote the restoration of compromised corneas. Ligand‐dependent EGFR ubiquitylation is associated with the targeted degradation of the receptor. In this manuscript, we determine whether knockout of c‐Cbl, an E3 ubiquitin ligase that ubiquitylates the EGFR, is sufficient to prolong EGFR phosphorylation and sustain signaling. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, we generated immortalized human corneal epithelial (hTCEpi) cells lacking c‐Cbl. Knockout (KO) cells expressed the other E3 ligases at the same levels as the control cells, indicating other E3 ligases were not up‐regulated. As compared to the control cells, EGF‐stimulated EGFR ubiquitylation was reduced in KO cells, but not completely abolished. Similarly, EGF:EGFR trafficking was slowed, with a 35% decrease in the rate of endocytosis and a twofold increase in the receptor half‐life. This resulted in a twofold increase in the magnitude of EGFR phosphorylation, with no change in duration. Conversely, Mitogen Activating Protein Kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation did not increase in magnitude but was sustained for 2–3 h as compared to control cells. We propose antagonizing c‐Cbl will partially alter receptor ubiquitylation and endocytic trafficking but this is sufficient to enhance downstream signaling.