bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A simple staging system using biomarkers for wild‐type transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy in Japan
Authors: Nakashima Naoya , Takashio Seiji , Morioka Mami , Nishi Masato , Yamada Toshihiro , Hirakawa Kyoko , Ishii Masanobu , Tabata Noriaki , Yamanaga Kenshi , Fujisue Koichiro , Sueta Daisuke , Kanazawa Hisanori , Hoshiyama Tadashi , Hanatani Shinsuke , Araki Satoshi , Usuku Hiroki , Yamamoto Eiichiro , Ueda Mitsuharu , Matsushita Kenichi , Tsujita Kenichi
Published: February 2022

Aims

It has been reported that a staging system combining N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide and high‐sensitivity troponin T (hs‐cTnT) or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is useful in patients with wild‐type transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTRwt‐CM). However, these studies were mainly conducted in Western countries, and their usefulness for the Japanese population is unclear. We examined and validated the staging system using hs‐cTnT, eGFR, and B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in Japanese patients with ATTRwt‐CM.

Methods and results

We retrospectively evaluated 176 patients with ATTRwt‐CM. The cut‐off values of hs‐cTnT and eGFR were selected as 0.05 ng/mL and 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively, based on a previous report. The optimal cut‐off value of BNP was 255.6 pg/mL to predict all‐cause mortality (sensitivity, 75%; specificity, 58%; area under the curve, 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.61–0.78; P < 0.001) based on a receiver operating characteristic curve. We defined the cut‐off value of BNP as 250 pg/mL. Increased hs‐cTnT (>0.05 ng/mL) and BNP (>250 pg/mL) and decreased eGFR (<45 mL/min/1.73 m2) were significant predictors of poor prognosis (P < 0.05). We calculated the score by adding 1 point if hs‐cTnT and BNP levels increased or eGFR decreased by more than the cut‐off value. The hazard ratio of all‐cause death adjusted by age and sex, using score 0 as a reference, was 0.44 (95% CI 0.08–2.49, P = 0.44) for score 1, 3.69 (95% CI 1.21–11.21, P = 0.02) for score 2, and 5.40 (95% CI 1.57–18.54, P = 0.007) for score 3. We divided patients into a low score group (0–1 point) and high score group (2–3 points). Kaplan–Meier analyses revealed significant differences in all‐cause death and rehospitalization for heart failure (log rank test; P < 0.001), and after adjusting for sex and age, the hazard ratio of all‐cause death was 6.96 (95% Cl 2.88–16.83, P < 0.001) and that for rehospitalization for heart failure was 4.27 (95% Cl 2.26–8.07, P < 0.001) in the high‐risk group, compared with those in the low‐risk group. The median survival period was 32.0 months in the high‐risk group.

Conclusions

This simple staging system, which combines hs‐cTnT, BNP, and eGFR, was useful for predicting prognosis in Japanese patients with ATTRwt‐CM. This system can objectively evaluate the disease progression of ATTRwt‐CM and may be useful for patient selection for disease‐modifying therapy.
Taxonomy and distribution of desmids in Karapuzha Dam, Western Ghats, Kerala
Authors: Jose Dhanya , Antony Ignatius , Varghese Anto Puthur , Paul Parappully Tessy
Published: February 2022

During the studies of algae in the Wayanad district, a notable diversity of desmids observed in the Karapuzha dam, Kerala, India. Karapuzha Dam is 700 to 2061 metres above sea level and is a part of Western Ghats. Thirty‐nine taxa of desmids were identified from Karapuzha Dam of Wayanad district from June 2019 to May 2020. The collection comprises ten genera of 39 desmids, including 24 species ofCosmarium, 5Staurastrum, 2Closterium, 2Euastrum, 1Gonatozygon, 1Triplastrum, 1Penium, 1Spondylosium, 1Micrasteriasand 1Arthrodesmus. Among these,Cosmarium regnesivar.montanumis new to India, 8 taxa are new to Kerala and 2 taxa are new to South India. Some rare and high altitude distributed species are found in the study. This desmid diversity relates to the oligotrophic nature of the dam. This paper is a pioneer attempt to document the desmid flora of Karapuzha Dam, Kerala.
A two‐sample robust Bayesian Mendelian Randomization method accounting for linkage disequilibrium and idiosyncratic pleiotropy with applications to the COVID‐19 outcomes
Authors: Wang Anqi , Liu Wei , Liu Zhonghua
Published: February 2022

Mendelian randomization (MR) is a statistical method exploiting genetic variants as instrumental variables to estimate the causal effect of modifiable risk factors on an outcome of interest. Despite wide uses of various popular two‐sample MR methods based on genome‐wide association study summary level data, however, those methods could suffer from potential power loss or/and biased inference when the chosen genetic variants are in linkage disequilibrium (LD), and also have relatively large direct effects on the outcome whose distribution might be heavy‐tailed which is commonly referred to as the idiosyncratic pleiotropy phenomenon. To resolve those two issues, we propose a novel Robust Bayesian Mendelian Randomization (RBMR) model that uses the more robust multivariate generalized ‐distribution to model such direct effects in a probabilistic model framework which can also incorporate the LD structure explicitly. The generalized ‐distribution can be represented as a Gaussian scaled mixture so that our model parameters can be estimated by the expectation maximization (EM)‐type algorithms. We compute the standard errors by calibrating the evidence lower bound using the likelihood ratio test. Through extensive simulation studies, we show that our RBMR has robust performance compared with other competing methods. We further apply our RBMR method to two benchmark data sets and find that RBMR has smaller bias and standard errors. Using our proposed RBMR method, we find that coronary artery disease is associated with increased risk of critically ill coronavirus disease 2019. We also develop a user‐friendly R package RBMR (https://github.com/AnqiWang2021/RBMR) for public use.
The role of intracerebral dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in sleep‐wake cycles and general anesthesia
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Jia , Liu Cheng‐Xi , Gui Huan , Yuan Cheng‐Dong , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2022

Dopamine (DA), a monoamine neurotransmitter, is synthesized and released mainly by neurons in the ventral tegmental area and the substantia nigra (SN) pars compacta of the midbrain. DA and its receptors are essential for the regulation of arousal, movement, cognition, reward, and other neurobiological behaviors. Arousal, locomotion, cognition, reward, and other neurobiological functions are all regulated by dopamine and its receptors. Dopamine receptors can be divided into D1‐like receptors (including D1 and D5) or D2‐like receptors (containing D2, D3, and D4), with D1 and D2 receptors (D1Rs, and D2Rs) being the most important. Currently, studies indicated that D1Rs and D2Rs are tightly involved with the process of sleep‐wake and general anesthesia, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. In this review, we compiled the most recent findings, mainly focusing on the structure, distribution, and signal pathway of D1Rs and D2Rs in the central nervous system, as well as the involvement of D1Rs and D2Rs in sleep‐wake and general anesthesia. Thus, the investigations of the D1Rs and D2Rs will benefit not only better knowledge for how sleep‐wake control works but also the mechanism of general anesthesia.
Healthy lifestyle and the risk of conventional adenomas and serrated polyps: Findings from a large colonoscopy screening population
Authors: Li Jiayu , You Liuqing , Xu Zenghao , Bai Hao , Fei Xinglin , Yang Jinhua , Li Qilong , Qian Sangni , Lin Shujuan , Tang Mengling , Wang Jianbing , Chen Kun , Jin Mingjuan
Published: February 2022

Evidence on the link between healthy lifestyle and colorectal cancer (CRC) precursors is limited. Our study aimed to examine and compare the associations of healthy lifestyle with CRC precursors in adenoma (AD)‐carcinoma and serrated pathways. A total of 24 480 participants including 6309 ADs, 1343 serrated polyps (SPs), and 16 828 polyp‐free controls were included. A healthy lifestyle score (HLS) was constructed based on five lifestyle factors including cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, physical activity, diet and body weight, and categorized into least, slightly, moderately and most healthy. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to estimate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Inverse dose‐response associations between the HLS and risk of ADs were observed (OR per 1 score increment for ADs: 0.82 [95% CI 0.79‐0.84]; for SPs: 0.73 [95% CI 0.69‐0.78]), and the association with SPs was more evident than with ADs (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.85‐0.96). Compared to participants with the least healthy lifestyle, those with the most healthy lifestyle had 47% lower risk of ADs (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.47‐0.59) and 70% lower risk of SPs (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.23‐0.39), respectively. These inverse associations were consistent across lesion stage and anatomic subsite and not modified by any stratification factors. The risk advancement periods for the most vs the least healthy lifestyle were −9.49 years for ADs and −20.69 years for SPs. Our findings help confirm the preventive role of healthy lifestyle in colorectal carcinogenesis.
A case of penile self‐mutilation during a suicidal attempt successfully treated using a multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Nagoshi Akihiko , Kijima Toshiki , Suzuki Issei , Sakamoto Kazumasa , Nozaki Fuyo , Fujisawa Daisuke , Sugawara Norio , Shimoda Kazutaka , Asato Hirotaka , Kamai Takao
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Penile self‐mutilation is predominantly associated with psychiatric disorders and rarely occurs during suicide attempts by men with depressive mood disorders. Herein, we have reported a case of penile self‐mutilation by a patient with depression.

Case presentation

A 63‐year‐old man with a 20‐year treatment history of depression presented to our hospital an hour after cutting his penile shaft during a suicide attempt. Hemostasis was achieved by urologists, and his psychiatric condition was evaluated by psychiatrists. The patient and his family hoped for penile replantation. His mood disorders were controllable, and microscopic replantation was performed by plastic surgeons after multidisciplinary discussion. The patient recovered, urinated without any signs of urinary stricture, showed no progression of depression, and did not repeat the mutilation.

Conclusion

Penile self‐mutilation during suicide attempts is a rare urological emergency that requires multidisciplinary management involving urologists, psychiatrists, and plastic surgeons.
Gypenoside A attenuates dysfunction of pancreatic β cells by activating PDX1 signal transduction via the inhibition of miR‐150‐3p both in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Li Yue
Published: February 2022

Saponin gypenoside A (GP) has shown its potential to handle diabetes mellitus. MicroRNA‐150‐3p (miR‐150‐3p) is closely related to the dysfunction of pancreatic β cells by targeting PDX1. Given the function of GP is related to its regulation on different miRs, the current study assessed the role of miR‐150‐3p as a therapeutic target for the hypoglycemic effects of GP. Pancreatic β cell dysfunction was induced in mice using the high‐fatty diet (HFD) method and then handled with GP. Changes in insulin release and resistance and the activity of the miR‐150‐3p/PDX1 axis were detected. The expression of miR‐150‐3p was induced to confirm its central in the effects of GP. The results of in vivo tests were then validated with in vitro assays. HFD administration suppressed glucose tolerance, delayed insulin release, and induced insulin resistance and pancreas apoptosis in mice, which was indicative of the dysfunction of β pancreatic cells. Changes in pancreatic β function were associated with the increased expression of miR‐150‐3p and suppressed expression of PDX1. After the administration of GP, the impairments of the pancreas were alleviated and the expression of miR‐150‐3p was inhibited, contributing to the restored level of PDX1. The injection of miR‐150‐3p agomir counteracted the protective effects of GP. In in vitro assays, the pretransfection of miR‐150‐3p mimetics also counteracted the protective effects of GP on pancreatic β cells against palmitic acid. Collectively, miR‐150‐3p played a key role in the protective effects of GP against pancreatic β cell dysfunction by inhibiting PDX1 expression.
Leveraging electronic health records to inform genetic counseling practice surrounding psychiatric disorders
Authors: Richter Lucas D. , Morley Theodore J. , Hooker Gillian W. , Peay Holly L. , Cox Nancy J. , Ruderfer Douglas M.
Published: February 2022

Since nearly one‐fifth of US adults have a psychiatric disorder, genetic counselors (GCs) will see many patients with these indications. However, GCs’ reports of inadequate preparation and low confidence in providing care for patients with psychiatric disorders can limit their ability to meet patient's needs. How frequently psychiatric disorders present in GC sessions is currently unclear. Here, we used deidentified electronic health records (EHR) to estimate the prevalence of 16 psychiatric disorders. In 7,155 GC patients, 34% had a diagnostic code associated with a psychiatric disorder; 23% with anxiety/phobic disorders; 21% with mood disorder/depression; 5% with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); and 1% with psychotic disorders. Compared to 415,709 demographically matched controls, GC patients showed a significantly higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders (GC prevalence: 34%, matched prevalence: 30%, p‐value < 0.0001) driven predominantly by anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and ADHD. Within GC specialties (prenatal: n = 2,674, cancer: n = 1,474, pediatric: n = 465), only pediatric GC patients showed a significant increase in psychiatric disorder prevalence overall (pediatric GC prevalence: 28%, matched prevalence: 13%, p‐value < 0.0001). However, significant evidence of increased prevalence existed for generalized anxiety disorder (prenatal GC prevalence 6.4%, matched prevalence: 4.9%, p‐value < 0.0001), anxiety disorders (cancer GC prevalence: 26%, matched prevalence: 21%, p‐value < 0.0001 and pediatric GC prevalence: 12%, matched prevalence: 5.5%), and ADHD (pediatric GC prevalence: 18%, matched prevalence: 7.9%, p‐value < 0.0001). These results highlight the need for additional guidance around care for patients with psychiatric disorders and the value of EHR‐based research in genetic counseling.
Clashes of cultures in an international aid organisation: Information cultures, languages and the use of information systems
Authors: Frings‐Hessami Viviane , Oliver Gillian
Published: February 2022

International non‐governmental organisations (INGOs) bring together actors from three very different backgrounds: international aid workers, national aid workers generally from the urban middle classes and disadvantaged communities. However, the ways national aid workers negotiate their cultural encounters and use accountability tools and information systems have not been the objects of much research. In this article, we analyse how the Bangladeshi employees of an INGO with headquarters in the United Kingdom and a country branch in Bangladesh are using accountability tools and information systems developed by and for English speakers and how they are coming up with work practices that are more attuned with their cultural and linguistic preferences.
Development of a flavor hop (Humulus lupulus L.) cultivar, ‘Furano Magical’, with cones rich in 4‐methyl‐4‐sulfunylpentan‐2‐one
Authors: Koie Koichiro , Takazumi Koji , Hamaguchi Tetsu , Takoi Kiyoshi , Itoga Yutaka , Uemoto Mitsuhiro , Goto Masanobu , Ogushi Kensuke , Suda Narushi
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Flavor hops (Humulus lupulus L.) are recognized as key raw materials that impart unique flavors to beer, especially in the emerging craft‐beer industry. In this study the sensory evaluation of hop cone aromas using hop water extract by boiling (HWEB) was applied to develop new flavor hop cultivars in a screening from tens of varieties and breeding lines.

RESULTS

The sensory scores of HWEB showed a significant correlation with polyfunctional thiol content in hop cones, including substances such as 4‐methyl‐4‐sulfunylpentan‐2‐one (4MSP) and 3‐sulfunyl‐4‐methylpentan‐1‐ol (3S4MP), which are known to be difficult to analyze mechanically. As a result of the sensory evaluation of HWEB, a breeding line, ‘K906901060’ was found to have a strong fruity note. Subsequent chemical analyses revealed that this cultivar had 80–136 μg kg−1 of 4MSP in its cones, which is similar to the concentration present in current leading flavor hop cultivars, such as Citra (37–114 μg kg−1) and Simcoe (2–112 μg kg−1). Beer late‐hopped with K906901060 provoked a greater tropical flavor impression than beer hopped using Nelson Sauvin hops.

CONCLUSION

The sensory evaluation of HWEB was indicated to be useful to search for hops containing polyfunctional thiols. The plant was registered, as ‘Furano K906901060 Go’ in Japan, in the EU, and in the USA, and the cultivar was given the commercial name ‘Furano Magical’. This cultivar was derived from a cross performed in 1989 and had been kept as a mid‐mother plant from 1997, until being selected in 2014, as described here. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Simulation analysis and freshness prediction of eggs laid at room temperature
Authors: Wang Jiaojiao , Wang Qiaohua , Cao Rui , Liu Xiaoqing , Ma Meihu
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Respiration is an important physiological activity of eggs and is closely related to their freshness. To further observe the diffusion of carbon dioxide released by egg respiration, we used a respirometer to measure the respiration parameters of eggs stored at room temperature and performed a respiration simulation using Fluent software. This paper also explores the relationship between respiratory intensity, freshness, and storage period.

RESULTS

The results demonstrate that the diffusion of carbon dioxide released from the respiration of eggs is related to the characteristics of heavy gas diffusion. By comparison, the simulated value (0.0199 m s−1) is close to the experimental value (0.0208 m s−1), which indicates that the simulation and analysis results are valid. In addition, the logarithmic model was used to assess the relationship between respiration intensity, Haugh unit, and the yolk index (R2 values 0.89 and 0.87). The R2 of the relationship between the real and the predicted Haugh unit value and the yolk index are 0.9 and 0.84 respectively, indicating that the model is a good fit. The equivalent egg age model was established using nonlinear regression, where the correlation coefficient R was 0.888 and P < 0.01, indicating it was both stable and reliable.

CONCLUSION

The standard k–ε model is suitable for egg respiration simulation analysis. Respiratory intensity can be used as a potential index for nondestructive testing of egg freshness, which is a new method for nondestructive testing of egg freshness and storage period. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Downstream processing of virus‐like particles with aqueous two‐phase systems: Applications and challenges
Authors: Leong Hui Yi , Fu Xiao‐Qian , Show Pau Loke , Yao Shan‐Jing , Lin Dong‐Qiang
Published: February 2022

The advancement of recombinant virus‐like particle‐based vaccines has attracted global attention owing to substantially safety and high efficacy in provoking a protective immunity against various chronic and infectious diseases in humans and animals. A robust, low‐cost, and scalability separation and purification technology is of utmost importance in the downstream processing of recombinant virus‐like particles to produce affordable and safe vaccines. Being a relatively simple, environmentally friendly, and efficient biomolecules recovery approach, aqueous two‐phase systems have received great attention from researchers worldwide. This review aims to highlight the challenges and outlook in addition to the current applications of aqueous two‐phase systems in downstream processing of virus‐like particles. The efforts will confidently reinforce scholars’ knowledge and fill in the valuable research gap in the aspect of concerning recombinant virus‐like particle‐based vaccines development, particularly related to the virus‐like particles downstream production processes.
Applicability of Transnasal Echography for Identification of Internal Carotid Artery
Authors: Katz Uriel , Nakache Gabriel , Alon Eran E. , Yakirevitch Arkadi
Published: February 2022

Objective

To study the applicability of transnasal echography for the internal carotid artery (ICA) imaging during endoscopic procedures, primarily nasopharyngectomy.

Study Design

Non‐randomized controlled cohort.

Methods

The tip of a pediatric transducer for transesophageal echography was inserted into each nostril under endoscopic control and placed in the ipsilateral Rosenmuller's fossa. The ICA's internal diameter and distance between the nasopharyngeal wall and the artery's closest point were measured on each side. Two independent examiners measured the same parameters on the axial plane of the skull base computer tomography (CT). Agreement between CT and echography measurements was estimated by the Bland–Altman approach.

Results

Twenty‐seven ICAs (sides) were available for the echography‐CT agreement analysis. Inter method agreement for both parameters was similar to the inter examiner agreement for the CT measurements.

Conclusions

Our first study on endoscopic echography demonstrated that this method is applicable, potentially allowing safer transnasal surgery in the ICA vicinity.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:1184–1188, 2022
Genetic analysis and clinical significance of a rare t(1;12)(q21;p13) in a patient with high‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Fang Fang , Jia Ru , Liu Congyan , Zhao Hong , Sun Wanling
Published: February 2022

To explore the genetic and clinical features of a rare t(1;12)(q21;p13) in a patient with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). A 53‐year‐old male was diagnosed as high‐risk MDS, and died in a short period. A complete cytogenetic analysis of bone marrow by conventional G‐banding karyotyping was performed at the time of initial evaluation. On the basis of chromosome karyotype, interphase and metaphase fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH) were carried out to further confirm the abnormal karyotypes. Reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was performed to determine ETV6/ARNT fusion gene status. G‐banding revealed karyotype 47, XY, +8, der(12) t(1;12)(q21;p13). FISH with the centromere 8 probe verified the trisomy 8, and the ETV 6 break‐apart probe suggested heterozygous loss of ETV6 allele located in short arm of chromosome 12. Subsequently, the painting probe of whole chromosome 12 further confirmed the part break of short arm of chromosome 12, and the 1q21/1p36 probe yielded three signals of 1q21 and two signals of 1p36. The results of FISH were in accordance with the karyotype completely. No ETV6/ARNT fusion gene was detected by PCR. T(1;12)(q21;p13) is a rare abnormal karyotype, and the limited reports cannot supply definite clinical significance. Rapid deterioration of our case suggests this translocation of chromosome might have a poor effect on the survival of MDS.
Adult‐onset Niemann–Pick disease type C masquerading as spinocerebellar ataxia
Authors: Vo Mary L. , Levy Tess , Lakhani Shenela , Wang Chengbing , Ross M. Elizabeth
Published: February 2022

Background

Adult‐onset Nieman–Pick disease type C (NPC) is a rare progressive ataxia caused by lysosomal accumulation of unesterified cholesterol resulting in severe disability and death. The diagnosis of NPC can be challenging as clinical features overlap with other more common hereditary ataxias. This study pursued the molecular genetic basis of adult‐onset cerebellar ataxia manifesting in two siblings. A prior diagnosis of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) based on an ataxia gene panel was questioned when the younger sibling developed similar symptoms but had discordant genetic results.

Methods

Neurologic examination, whole exome sequence (WES), targeted sequence to establish genome phasing, and cytochemical and biochemical studies of fibroblast cultures were employed.

Results

The pedigree and neurological examinations suggested a recessive or possibly dominant cerebellar ataxia. WES showed the siblings were both compound heterozygous for two rare variants in the NPC1 gene—one pathogenic, stop gain at p.Arg934Ter (NM_000271.4), and a missense change, p.Pro471Leu (NM_000271.4), of uncertain significance. Filipin staining of fibroblast cultures showed lysosomal cholesterol accumulation and biochemical assay demonstrated impaired cholesterol esterification.

Conclusions

The study established the correct molecular diagnosis of biallelic, adult‐onset NPC in a patient initially diagnosed with SCA. Additionally, the p.Pro471Leu variant was identified as likely pathogenic. Inaccurate molecular diagnosis will deprive NPC patients of treatment options. Investigation using WES is justified when a detected expansion size is in the borderline range for pathogenicity.
Technical note: Controlling the attenuation of 3D‐printed physical phantoms for computed tomography with a single material
Authors: Tong Huayu , Pegues Hope , Samei Ehsan , Lo Joseph Y. , Wiley Benjamin J.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this work was to characterize and improve the ability of fused filament fabrication to create anthropomorphic physical phantoms for CT research. Specifically, we sought to develop the ability to create multiple levels of X‐ray attenuation with a single material.

Methods

CT images of 3D printed cylinders with different infill angles and printing patterns were assessed by comparing their 2D noise power spectra to determine the conditions that produced minimal and uniform noise. A backfilling approach in which additional polymer was extruded into an existing 3D printed background layer was developed to create multiple levels of image contrast.

Results

A print with nine infill angles and a rectilinear infill pattern was found to have the best uniformity, but the printed objects were not as uniform as a commercial phantom. An HU dynamic range of 600 was achieved by changing the infill percentage from 40% to 100%. The backfilling technique enabled control of up to eight levels of contrast within one object across a range of 200 HU, similar to the range of soft tissue. A contrast detail phantom with six levels of contrast and an anthropomorphic liver phantom with four levels of contrast were printed with a single material.

Conclusion

This work improves the uniformity and levels of contrast that can be achieved with fused filament fabrication, thereby enabling researchers to easily create more detailed physical phantoms, including realistic, anthropomorphic textures.
A heat transfer problem with exponential memory and the associated thermal stresses
Authors: Avcı Derya , İskender Eroğlu Beyza Billur , Özdemir Necati
Published: February 2022

In this study, a heat transfer problem defined by the Caputo–Fabrizio derivative, which is known to behave by the exponential decaying law, is addressed in an axially symmetric cylindrical region. Thus, the fundamental solutions of the heat diffusion process and the associated thermal stresses are aimed to find. For this purpose, Laplace and finite Hankel integral transforms are applied according to the geometry of the region. To obtain the thermal stresses, constitutive relations of the classical thermoelasticity theory are used. The effects of fractional orders on the diffusion process are illustrated graphically using MATLAB.
Alcohol Dehydrogenases with anti‐Prelog Stereopreference in Synthesis of Enantiopure Alcohols
Authors: Musa Musa M.
Published: February 2022

Biocatalytic production of both enantiomers of optically active alcohols with high enantiopurities is of great interest in industry. Alcohol dehydrogenases (ADHs) represent an important class of enzymes that could be used as catalysts to produce optically active alcohols from their corresponding prochiral ketones. This review covers examples of the synthesis of optically active alcohols using ADHs that exhibit anti‐Prelog stereopreference. Both wild‐type and engineered ADHs that exhibit anti‐Prelog stereopreference are highlighted.
Multilocation proteins in organelle communication: Based on protein–protein interactions
Authors: Xiong Erhui , Cao Di , Qu Chengxin , Zhao Pengfei , Wu Zhaokun , Yin Dongmei , Zhao Quanzhi , Gong Fangping
Published: February 2022

Protein–protein interaction (PPI) plays a crucial role in most biological processes, including signal transduction and cell apoptosis. Importantly, the knowledge of PPIs can be useful for identification of multimeric protein complexes and elucidation of uncharacterized protein functions. Arabidopsis thaliana, the best‐characterized dicotyledonous plant, the steadily increasing amount of information on the levels of its proteome and signaling pathways is progressively enabling more researchers to construct models for cellular processes for the plant, which in turn encourages more experimental data to be generated. In this study, we performed an overview analysis of the 10 major organelles and their associated proteins of the dicotyledonous model plant Arabidopsis thaliana via PPI network, and found that PPI may play an important role in organelle communication. Further, multilocation proteins, especially phosphorylation‐related multilocation proteins, can function as a “needle and thread” via PPIs and play an important role in organelle communication. Similar results were obtained in a monocotyledonous model crop, rice. Furthermore, we provide a research strategy for multilocation proteins by LOPIT technique, proteomics, and bioinformatics analysis and also describe their potential role in the field of plant science. The results provide a new view that the phosphorylation‐related multilocation proteins play an important role in organelle communication and provide new insight into PPIs and novel directions for proteomic research. The research of phosphorylation‐related multilocation proteins may promote the development of organelle communication and provide an important theoretical basis for plant responses to external stress.
Commentary on “compatibility of rapid enteral feeding advances and noninvasive ventilation in preterm infants—an observational study”
Authors: Buck Catherine O. , Taylor Sarah N.
Published: February 2022

Nutritional support is essential in the critical care of the very preterm infant, however, the study of the potential role of nutrition in the multifactorial pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is limited. Achievement of full enteral feeding faster has not been shown to be harmful and may be of benefit in extremely preterm infants. This commentary discusses the studied risk and potential benefits of more rapid enteral feeding advancement in extremely preterm infants.
Selection and characterization of thermotolerant Beauveria bassiana isolates and with insecticidal activity against the cotton‐melon aphid Aphis gossypii (Glover) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Mseddi Jihen , Ben Farhat‐Touzri Dalel , Azzouz Hichem
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Cotton‐melon aphid Aphis gossypii (Glover) causes severe damage mainly to cucurbits. Twenty‐two Beauveria sp. isolates were simultaneously assessed for their pathogenicity and heat tolerance. The selected isolates were identified molecularly and characterized in terms of conidial germination rate, mycelial growth, conidial yield and endophytic activity.

RESULTS

Screening bioassays showed that the B. bassiana isolates B3, B7, B9 and B12 were the most toxic, inducing mortality equal to or slightly higher than the commercialized strain B. bassiana BNat (70.7%). Median lethal concentration (LC50) bioassays revealed that only isolate B12 had a significantly lower LC50 value (5.4 × 105 conidia ml−1) than strain BNat (5 × 106 conidia ml−1). The heat tolerance screening test (1 h of exposure to 45°C) allowed us to select isolates B3, B7, B9 and B12 with germination rates of 57.5% to 80.1% after 24 h incubation at 25°C, all significantly higher than strain BNat (22.1%). The germination rates of all isolates decreased significantly after 2 h of exposure to 45°C, with the exception of isolate B12 which displayed the highest thermotolerance (72% germination). The four selected isolates were able to endophytically colonize cucumber leaves when applied to the foliage. Inoculation of cucumber plants with isolate B12 did not affect cucumber plant growth. However, several plant growth parameters were improved 5 weeks after root inoculation.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of its potent toxicity and thermotolerance, isolate B12 is a good candidate for further development as a biopesticide for use in integrated pest management strategies for aphid control. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Covariate analysis of tusamitamab ravtansine, a DM4 anti‐CEACAM5 antibody‐drug conjugate, based on first‐in‐human study
Authors: Pouzin Clemence , Tod Michel , Chadjaa Mustapha , Fagniez Nathalie , Nguyen Laurent
Published: February 2022

Tusamitamab ravtansine is an anti‐CEACAM5 antibody‐drug conjugate indicated in patients with solid tumors. Based on a previous developed semimechanistic model describing simultaneously pharmacokinetic (PK) of SAR408701, two of its active metabolites: DM4 and methyl‐DM4 and naked antibody, with integration of drug‐to‐antibody data, the main objective of the present analysis was to evaluate covariate’s impact in patients from phase I/II study (n = 254). Demographic and pathophysiologic baseline covariates were explored to explain interindividual variability on each entity PK parameter. Model parameters were estimated with good precision. Five covariates were included in the final PK model: body surface area (BSA), tumor burden, albumin, circulating target, and gender. Comparison of BSA‐adjusted dosing and flat dosing supported the current BSA‐based dosing regimen, to limit under and over exposure in patients with extreme BSA. Overall, this model characterized accurately the PKs of all entities and highlighted sources of PK variability. By integrating mechanistic considerations, this model aimed to improve understanding of the SAR408701 complex disposition while supporting key steps of clinical development.
Magnetostructural Dependencies in 3d2Systems: The Trigonal Bipyramidal V3+Complex
Authors: Georgiev Miroslav , Chamati Hassan
Published: February 2022

We introduce a multiconfigurational approach to study the magnetostructural correlations in systems. The theoretical framework represents a restricted active space self‐consistent field method, with active space optimized to the number of all non‐bonding orbitals. To demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the method, we explore the physical properties of the trigonal bipyramidal spin‐one single‐ion magnet . The obtained theoretical results show good agreement with the experimental data available in the literature. This includes measurements for the magnetization, low‐field susceptibility, continuous wave electron paramagnetic resonance, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The proposed method may be reliably applied to a variety of magnetic systems. To this end, and for the sake completeness, we provide detailed analytical and numerical representations for the generic Hamiltonian's effective matrix elements related to the crystal field, exchange, spin–orbit, and Zeeman interactions.
Partially Auxetic Properties of Face‐Centered Cubic Hard‐Sphere Crystals with Nanochannels of Different Sizes, Parallel to [001]‐Direction and Filled by Other Hard Spheres
Authors: Narojczyk Jakub W. , Tretiakov Konstantin V. , Wojciechowski Krzysztof W.
Published: February 2022

Results of constant pressure and temperature Monte Carlo (MC) simulations with varying shapes of the periodic box are presented for face‐centered cubic (FCC) hard‐sphere crystals with periodic inclusions––arrays of channels parallel to the crystalline axis and forming a square lattice with and axes in the plane. The channels, referred to as nanochannels because their diameters do not exceed a few lattice constants of the matrix crystal, are filled by hard spheres of slightly different diameters from the spheres forming the matrix crystal. Fourteen types of nanochannels with different sizes, formed by the spheres lying on the nanochannel axis and up to those being their thirteenth nearest neighbor, are simulated. The nanochannel axes are distanced by six lattice constants of the monoatomic FCC crystal and arranged in a square lattice with main axes parallel to one of the main axes of the FCC lattice, formed by identical spheres. It is shown that small differences in: 1) channel sizes, 2) their geometry; and 3) diameter ratios of inclusion to matrix spheres can lead to large differences in the elastic properties of the studied nanocomposite structures. This is well seen in the minimum and maximum values of Poisson's ratio.
Amyloidosis with recurrent oral and peptic ulcers mimicking Behcet's syndrome: A case report
Authors: Peng Jiajing , Liu Tian
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Amyloidosis and Behcet's syndrome (BS) are systemic diseases that affect multiple systems. Similar mucocutaneous damage occurs in amyloidosis and BS, thus causing a delayed or incorrect diagnosis. The prognosis of patients with amyloidosis is poor. Therefore, exclusion of other diagnoses is important before confirming the presence of BS.

Case Report

We report a case of a 43‐year‐old woman who initially presented with peptic ulcers, recurrent oral ulcers, and suspicious genital ulcers resembling BS. She was treated with systemic steroids at the local hospital for approximately 2 years. However, her symptoms were not relieved, and the gradual presence of macroglossia, hoarseness, periorbital purpura, proteinuria, and cardiac involvement strongly suggested amyloidosis. She was diagnosed with immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis (lambda type) after extensive examinations, including an elevated monoclonal protein concentration, Congo red staining, and immunohistochemical staining of abdominal fat. She was then treated with a chemotherapy regimen (melphalan and dexamethasone).

Conclusion

Recurrent oral ulcers can be the first manifestation of amyloidosis. The diagnosis of BS requires the exclusion of other diseases, and amyloidosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis.
Validation of supercritical water oxidation to destroy perfluoroalkyl acids
Authors: McDonough Jeffrey T. , Kirby John , Bellona Christopher , Quinnan Joseph A. , Welty Nicklaus , Follin John , Liberty Ken
Published: February 2022

Some of the same unique physical and chemical properties that make per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) desirable for a wide range of commercial applications render them recalcitrant to many liquid treatment technologies. As developments in PFAS‐related toxicological studies increasingly suggest potential adverse human health effects, our industry has made great progress in the past several years on concentrating PFAS into small volume waste streams via adsorption and separation mechanisms. Coupled with residual PFAS‐containing commercial products that are being phased out, management of these concentrated waste streams presents an urgent need for the development and validation of destructive treatment technologies. Here, we field‐validate supercritical water oxidation to treat a concentrated waste stream of 12 perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) with liquid and gaseous analysis, adhering to the recent Other Test Method 45 for stack emission sampling from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and USEPA Method 537.1, with quality control and quality assurance protocols from the Department of Defense/Department of Energy Quality Systems Manual 5.3. Results generated suggest greater than 99.999% destruction and removal efficiency of these 12 PFAAs after two ∼120‐min continuous flow trials, with an overall defluorination percentage of approximately 62.6%.
Caffeine and canopy cover interact to alter biofilm nutrient content, benthic invertebrates, and insect emergence
Authors: Marshall Melanie M. , Metzner Gabrielle K. , McCluney Kevin E.
Published: February 2022

The addition of trace contaminants to surface waters is recognized as a rising environmental concern and caffeine is among those most commonly detected. Classic toxicological analyses of single organisms have described some of the impacts of caffeine on freshwater organisms, but few have examined ecological interactions, food webs, or aquatic‐terrestrial linkages, especially in natural aquatic systems. This study used an in situ manipulative experiment to effects of caffeine addition on aquatic biofilms and biomass of aquatic and emergent insects. We used chemical diffusing substrata to introduce small concentrations of caffeine to streams and analyzed effects on downstream biofilm nutrient content, benthic macroinvertebrates, and emergent insects. We found that caffeine addition decreased the biomass of emergent insects by 56% and altered biofilm nutrient content in complex ways that interact with canopy cover, with stronger effects of caffeine addition under low canopy cover (higher light). Thus, the impacts of this common aquatic contaminant may influence the linked riparian food web by decreasing emergent insects, an important food source for riparian insectivores.
Effect of nature‐based physical activity on post‐traumatic growth among healthcare providers with post‐traumatic stress
Authors: Noushad Shamoon , Ansari Basit , Ahmed Sadaf
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this randomized control trial was to observe the effect of nature‐based physical activity in achieving post traumatic growth and to estimate the combined effect of nature and physical activity on the psychophysiological outcomes. A 3‐month therapy was provided to participants meeting eligibility criteria to receive the walk‐in nature (experimental group) or sit‐in nature (control group) in the 1:1 ratio. At baseline and 3‐month follow‐up, participants were assessed with Trauma Symptom Checklist 40, Traumatic Stress Scale, Post‐Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), Cortisol, C‐Reactive Protein (CRP), Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), Brain‐Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) and heart rate variability. There was a significant effect of nature‐based physical activity on traumatic stress and post‐traumatic growth in comparison with the sit‐in control. A significant post‐interventional difference was observed in the mean PTGI score [F = 5.412, p = 0.022] between the experimental and control groups after 3 months of intervention. All the biochemical estimates, including CRP, BDNF, IL‐6, and cortisol levels, were significantly altered in both post‐intervention study groups (p < 0.01). Taken together, these results show that nature‐based physical activity significantly improves psychophysiological outcomes induced as a result of post‐traumatic growth and also reduces traumatic stress.
Local tumour response to neoadjuvant therapy with 2‐aminoethyl dihydrogen phosphate in dogs with soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: de Castro Patrícia Ferreira , Maria Durvanei Augusto , de Campos Fonseca Pinto Ana Carolina Brandão , Patricio Geni Cristina Fonseca , Matera Julia Maria
Published: February 2022

Background

In cases of soft tissue sarcoma (STS), neoadjuvant therapy is indicated to downstage the tumour prior to surgery to achieve enhanced local tumour control. The antineoplastic phospholipid compound 2‐aminoethyl dihydrogen phosphate (2‐AEH2F) is an alkyl phosphate ester capable of inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing cell death by modifying the asymmetry of phospholipids in the cytoplasmic membrane

Objectives

This clinical study was designed to investigate local antitumoural effects of neoadjuvant therapy with 2‐AEH2F in dogs with naturally occurring STS

Material and methods

Dogs (n = 11) received four consecutive weekly intravenous injections of 2‐AEH2F (70 mg/kg) prior to tumour resection. Tomographic (CT) and thermal (TE) images were used to investigate changes in tumour size and local temperature in response to treatment

Results

Comparative analysis of CT images (n = 9/11) failed to reveal complete or partial remission according to selected assessment criteria (RECIST, WHO and volumetric). Comparative analysis of TE images (n = 10/11) revealed significantly (p = 0.01416) lower temperatures in tumoural areas relative to surrounding tissues over the course of treatment

Conclusions

2‐AEH2F had no cytoreductive effects when used at doses and intervals described in this study. However, significant drop in skin temperatures recorded in tumoural areas suggest induction of physiological changes.
Proactive interference and the development of working memory
Authors: Hamilton Mollie , Ross Ashley , Blaser Erik , Kaldy Zsuzsa
Published: February 2022

Working memory (WM), the ability to maintain information in service to a task, is characterized by its limited capacity. Several influential models attribute this limitation in a large extent to proactive interference (PI), the phenomenon that previously encoded, now‐irrelevant information competes with relevant information. Here, we look back at the adult PI literature, spanning over 60 years, as well as recent results linking the ability to cope with PI to WM capacity. In early development, WM capacity is even more limited, yet an accounting for the role of PI has been lacking. Our Focus Article aims to address this through an integrative account: since PI resolution is mediated by networks involving the frontal cortex (particularly, the left inferior frontal gyrus) and the posterior parietal cortex, and since children have protracted development and less recruitment of these areas, the increase in the ability to cope with PI is a major factor underlying the increase in WM capacity in early development. Given this, we suggest that future research should focus on mechanistic studies of PI resolution in children. Finally, we note a crucial methodological implication: typical WM paradigms repeat stimuli from trial‐to‐trial, facilitating, inadvertently, PI and reducing performance; we may be fundamentally underestimating children's WM capacity.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Memory

Neuroscience > Cognition

Neuroscience > Development
Automating Data Science
Authors: Brazdil Pavel , van Rijn Jan N. , Soares Carlos , Vanschoren Joaquin
Published: February 2022

It has been observed that, in data science, a great part of the effort usually goes into various preparatory steps that precede model-building. The aim of this chapter is to focus on some of these steps. A comprehensive description of a given task to be resolved is usually supplied by the domain expert. Techniques exist that can process natural language description to obtain task descriptors (e.g., keywords), determine the task type, the domain, and the goals. This in turn can be used to search for the required domain-specific knowledge appropriate for the given task. In some situations, the data required may not be available and a plan needs to be elaborated regarding how to get it. Although not much research has been done in this area so far, we expect that progress will be made in the future. In contrast to this, the area of preprocessing and transformation has been explored by various researchers. Methods exist for selection of instances and/or elimination of outliers, discretization and other kinds of transformations. This area is sometimes referred to asdata wrangling. These transformations can be learned by exploiting existing machine learning techniques (e.g., learning by demonstration). The final part of this chapter discusses decisions regarding the appropriate level of detail (granularity) to be used in a given task. Although it is foreseeable that further progress could be made in this area, more work is needed to determine how to do this effectively.