bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organized Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A Condition Presenting Mixed-Density Hematoma without Gradation Density on Brain CT
Authors: Akaishi Tetsuya , Karibe Hiroshi , Endo Toshiki , Ishii Tadashi
Published: October 2021

Organized chronic subdural hematoma is a neurological condition characterized by organized clot formation inside the hematoma. Unlike nonorganized chronic subdural hematoma with persistent bleeding inside, organized subdural hematoma is often a nonurgent condition that does not require emergency drainage, unless progressive cerebral compression with neurological disturbances is present. However, as the CT values in organized clot formation and active bleeding fall in similar ranges, distinguishing these 2 conditions with different emergency levels based on brain CT alone is sometimes difficult. Here, we describe the case of a 78-year-old man with persistent nocturia who was referred to our hospital. He had a history of head trauma on the left side about 1 year ago, followed by neurosurgery at another hospital. Brain CT revealed a multiseptated subdural space and a mixed-density hematoma without gradation density on the contralateral side of the past head trauma region. Based on the lack of progressive neurological disturbances and the absence of gradation density in CT values inside the hematomas, his condition was judged as nonurgent, and emergency drainage was spared. One year after his first visit to our hospital, the patient experienced a normal life without any neurological disturbances, except for nocturia. The absence of gradation density in CT values along the gravity direction inside the organized hematoma may be a clue to estimate nonurgency without persistent active bleeding inside.
6-Shogaol Exerts a Neuroprotective Factor in Offspring after Maternal Immune Activation in Rats
Authors: da Rosa Naiana , de Medeiros Fabiana Durante , de Oliveira Juliana , Laurentino Ana Olívia Martins , Peretti Eduardo de Medeiros , Machado Richard Simon , Lourenço Millena Pais , da Silva Thatiany Igreja , Fernandes Tamires da Cunha , Reis Patrícia Alves , de Castro Faria Neto Hugo Caire , Prophiro Josiane Somariva , Fortunato Jucélia Jeremias , Petronilho Fabrícia
Published: October 2021

6-Shogaol is one of the main active phenolic components of ginger and has neuroprotective effects by protecting brain against the oxidative stress and regulate the levels of neurotrophic factors. The objective of the present study was to verify the effect of 6-shogaol on neurochemical parameters in offspring after maternal immune activation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rats. Twelve pregnant Wistar rats received 100 μg/kg of LPS or saline solution on the gestational day 9.5. Male offspring participated in the study and from the postnatal days (PND) 30 and 55, respectively, they were supplemented with 6-shogaol or saline solution, by gavage at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day, orally for 5 days. In PND 37 and 62, analysis of kinase signaling regulated by extracellular signal 1/2 (ERK 1/2), levels of neurotrophic factor derived from the brain (BDNF), and neuron-specific enolase (NSE), lipid and protein oxidative damage was evaluated by 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE) and 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT), respectively, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was performed in the hippocampus. Prenatal exposure to LPS significantly decreased ERK and BDNF levels in PND 37 and 62, increased NSE levels and lipid damage in rats in PND 37, and increased 3-NT level in rats in PND 62. With treatment using 6-shogaol, an increase in ERK and BDNF levels was identified in PND 37 and 62 and a reduction in HNE and MPO activity in rats in PND 37 and 62, respectively. 6-Shogaol positively increased markers of neuronal growth, plasticity and synaptic activity and reduced oxidative damage in the hippocampus in an animal model of autism by maternal immune activation.
Schlaf‘, Kindlein, schlaf‘: Schlafverhalten von Säuglingen unter Propranolol-Therapie
Authors: Hamm Henning
Published: October 2021

Sleep problems are frequently reported in infants treated with propranolol for infantile hemangiomas, possibly serving as a marker for a negative impact on central nervous system function. In this cohort study, we objectively investigate the sleep behavior of infants with infantile hemangiomas on propranolol compared to a healthy, untreated control group. Sleep of propranolol-treated infants and controls was investigated using ankle actigraphy and a 24-h diary for 7–10 days at ages 3 and 6 months. The main outcome measures were the Number of Nighttime Awakenings and Sleep Efficiency. The main secondary outcome measures included 24-hour Total Sleep, daytime sleep behavior, and parent-rated infant sleep quality and behavioral development based on the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire (BISQ) and the age-appropriate Ages-and-Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), respectively. Fifty-four term-born infants were included in each cohort. No group difference in any investigated parameter was seen at age 3 months. At age 6 months, the propranolol group exhibited a decrease in Sleep Efficiency and a trend towards an increased Number of Nighttime Awakenings compared to the control group. Treated infants at 6 months also had shorter daytime waking periods. 24-hour Total Sleep was unaffected by propranolol. No negative impact of propranolol on subjective sleep quality and behavioral development was noted. Conclusion: Propranolol exerts a measurable yet mild impact on objectively assessed infants’ sleep measures. Behavioral developmental scores were unaffected. Our results support propranolol as first-line therapy for complicated infantile hemangiomas. What is Known: •Sleep disorders are frequently reported in infants with infantile hemangiomas treated with propranolol and often lead to treatment discontinuation. • Investigations of the sleep pattern in this patient group using objective measures are lacking. What is New: • The sleep pattern of propranolol-treated infants is assessed using actigraphy and a 24-h sleep diary and compared to healthy, untreated controls. • Propranolol leads to a decreased sleep efficiency at night and an increased demand of daytime sleep, yet effects are mild overall.
Eosinopenie als Biomarker des Schweregrads einer COVID-19-Infektion
Authors: Xanthouli Panagiota
Published: October 2021

Background: Studies on the role of eosinophils in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are scarce, though available findings suggest a possible association with disease severity. Our study analyzes the relationship between eosinophils and COVID-19, with a focus on disease severity and patients with underlying chronic respiratory diseases. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 3,018 subjects attended at two public hospitals in Madrid (Spain) with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection from January 31 to April 17, 2020. Patients with eosinophil counts less than 0.02 × 109/L were considered to have eosinopenia. Individuals with chronic respiratory diseases (n = 384) were classified according to their particular underlying condition, i.e., asthma, chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, or obstructive sleep apnea. Results: Of the 3018 patients enrolled, 479 were excluded because of lack of information at the time of admission. Of 2539 subjects assessed, 1,396 patients presented an eosinophil count performed on admission, revealing eosinopenia in 376 cases (26.93%). Eosinopenia on admission was associated with a higher risk of intensive care unit (ICU) or respiratory intensive care unit (RICU) admission (OR:2.21; 95% CI:1.42–3.45; p < 0.001) but no increased risk of mortality (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Eosinopenia on admission conferred a higher risk of severe disease (requiring ICU/RICU care), but was not associated with increased mortality. In patients with chronic respiratory diseases who develop COVID-19, age seems to be the main risk factor for progression to severe disease or death.
Clinicopathological Features of 19 Eyelid Pilomatrixomas
Authors: Siadati Sepideh , Campbell Ashley A. , McCulley Timothy , Eberhart Charles G.
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Pilomatrixoma is a relatively rare, benign tumor arising from the hair root matrix. It is found frequently on the head and neck, with most involving the eyebrow in the periocular region. In contrast, eyelid pilomatrixoma is less common, and often clinically misdiagnosed. Here, we present clinical and histological data from 19 pilomatrixomas arising in the eyelid. Methods: The study represents a retrospective study of eyelid pilomatrixoma diagnosed at our institution since 1981. All slides were reviewed, and demographic as well as clinical data were obtained. Results: Patient ages ranged from 2 to 63 years (mean 24 years), including 12 (63%) females and 7 (37%) males. Eight (42%) and 4 (21%) cases arose in the first and second decades of life, respectively. Upper eyelid involvement was found in 14 (74%) of cases. Microscopically, the tumors were characterized by basaloid and shadow cells accompanied by calcification and foreign body giant cells. Conclusions: Eyelid pilomatrixoma is rarely suspected clinically, and can be mistaken for cyst, chalazion, sebaceous carcinoma, and other tumors. Physicians should consider the possibility of pilomatrixoma in the eyelid area, especially in children or young female patients. Complete excision is curative, and diagnosis can generally be established by histopathological examination.
Current State of Multidisciplinary Treatment in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Ben Khaled Najib , Jacob Sven , Rössler Daniel , Bösch Florian , De Toni Enrico N. , Werner Jens , Ricke Jens , Mayerle Julia , Seidensticker Max , Schulz Christian , Fabritius Matthias P.
Published: October 2021

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly aggressive malignancy, and its incidence seems to be increasing over the last years. Given the high rate of irresectability at the time of initial diagnosis, new treatment approaches are important to achieve better patient outcomes. Our review provides an overview of current multimodal therapy options across different specialties of gastroenterology/oncology, surgery, and interventional radiology. Summary: CCA is subdivided into clinically and molecularly distinct phenotypes. Surgical treatment currently is the only potentially curative therapy, but unfortunately, the majority of all patients are not eligible for resection at the time of initial diagnosis due to anatomic location, inadequate hepatic reserve, metastatic disease, or limiting comorbidities. However, multimodal treatment options are available to prolong survival, relieve symptoms, and maintain life quality. Key Messages: The treatment of CCA is complex and requires close interdisciplinary collaboration and individualized treatment planning to ensure optimal patient care at specialized centers. Molecular profiling of patients and inclusion into clinical trials is highly recommended.
Primate Selfies and Anthropozoonotic Diseases: Lack of Rule Compliance and Poor Risk Perception Threatens Orangutans
Authors: Molyneaux Andrea , Hankinson Emma , Kaban Mbra , Svensson Magdalena S. , Cheyne Susan M. , Nijman Vincent
Published: October 2021

Our understanding of the transmission of anthropozoonotic diseases between humans and non-human primates, particularly great apes due to their close genetic relationship with humans, highlights a serious potential threat to the survival of these species. This is particularly the case at tourism sites where risk of disease transmission is increased. We focus on the interaction between tourists and the Critically Endangered Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii) at Bukit Lawang in the Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia, before and after the park was closed due to the threat of COVID-19 in April 2020. Through analysis of posts on Instagram we determine the extent of compliance by visitors with the rule to keep a minimum distance of 10 m from orangutans and assess the positional behaviours of the orangutans. Of the 2,229 photographs we assessed between November 2019 and July 2020, 279 depicted one or more orangutans. Forty-two of these contained both a human and an orangutan, and of these all showed inappropriate behaviours (direct contact, feeding orangutans, close proximity <5 m) providing direct evidence of non-compliance with the 10-m distance rule. Most of these photographs additionally showed orangutans performing abnormal positional behaviours such as being low to or on the ground rather than their natural high position in the canopy; being near the ground and in close proximity to humans increases the risk of anthropozoonotic disease transmission. As expected, we found a significant decrease in number of photographs that were posted following the closure, and a decrease in the proportion of photographs that showed orangutans, or tourists feeding orangutans. Tourists do not seem to perceive that they pose risks to the orangutans and therefore increased awareness, education and enforcement of rules by all stakeholders, tourism bodies and government officials need to be actioned in order to safeguard this important population, which is crucial to the future survival of the Sumatran orangutan.
Percepção de pós-graduandos sobre os motivos que contribuiriam para a evasão de estudantes dos cursos stricto sensu em Contabilidade
Authors: Pereira Victor Hugo , Cunha Jacqueline Veneroso Alves da , Avelino Bruna Camargos , Cornacchione Junior Edgard Bruno
Published: October 2021

Este estudo teve como objetivo principal identificar a percepção de pós-graduandos sobre os motivos que contribuiriam para a evasão de estudantes dos cursos de pós-graduação stricto sensu em Contabilidade. Participaram da pesquisa 619 pós-graduandos que responderam ao questionário disponibilizado online. Os resultados evidenciaram que, para os discentes matriculados nos cursos de Mestrado em Contabilidade, as dificuldades para acompanhar o curso devido ao tempo necessário para os estudos foi indicado como o motivo que mais contribuiria para a evasão. Os estudantes matriculados nos cursos de Doutorado não indicaram motivos que representassem uma contribuição de alto grau na propensão para a evasão. De um modo geral, destacaram que um motivo que contribuiria fortemente para a evasão seria as dificuldades para acompanhar o curso devido ao tempo necessário para os estudos. Isto reforça a necessidade de discussões sobre o tema, com o intuito de apoiar os estudantes ao longo da realização de suas atividades acadêmicas. Ao reconhecerem possíveis dificuldades relatadas pelos discentes, os membros das instituições de ensino têm a oportunidade de buscar alternativas para auxiliar o estudante a lidar com situações de desconforto na universidade.
Special Considerations for Healthy Lifestyle Promotion Across the Life Span in Clinical Settings: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association
Authors: Kris-Etherton Penny M. , Petersen Kristina S. , Després Jean-Pierre , Braun Lynne , de Ferranti Sarah D. , Furie Karen L. , Lear Scott A. , Lobelo Felipe , Morris Pamela B. , Sacks Frank M. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Stroke Council; Council on Clinical Cardiology; Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; and Council on Hypertension
Published: October 2021

At a population level, engagement in healthy lifestyle behaviors is suboptimal in the United States. Moreover, marked disparities exist in healthy lifestyle behaviors and cardiovascular risk factors as a result of social determinants of health. In addition, there are specific challenges to engaging in healthy lifestyle behaviors related to age, developmental stage, or major life circumstances. Key components of a healthy lifestyle are consuming a healthy dietary pattern, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding use of tobacco products, habitually attaining adequate sleep, and managing stress. For these health behaviors, there are guidelines and recommendations; however, promotion in clinical settings can be challenging, particularly in certain population groups. These challenges must be overcome to facilitate greater promotion of healthy lifestyle practices in clinical settings. The 5A Model (assess, advise, agree, assist, and arrange) was developed to provide a framework for clinical counseling with consideration for the demands of clinical settings. In this science advisory, we summarize specific considerations for lifestyle-related behavior change counseling using the 5A Model for patients across the life span. In all life stages, social determinants of health and unmet social-related health needs, as well as overweight and obesity, are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and there is the potential to modify this risk with lifestyle-related behavior changes. In addition, specific considerations for lifestyle-related behavior change counseling in life stages in which lifestyle behaviors significantly affect cardiovascular disease risk are outlined. Greater attention to healthy lifestyle behaviors during every clinician visit will contribute to improved cardiovascular health.
Cardiovascular Progerin Suppression and Lamin A Restoration Rescue Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome
Authors: Sánchez-López Amanda , Espinós-Estévez Carla , González-Gómez Cristina , Gonzalo Pilar , Andrés-Manzano María J. , Fanjul Víctor , Riquelme-Borja Raquel , Hamczyk Magda R. , Macías Álvaro , del Campo Lara , Camafeita Emilio , Vázquez Jesús , Barkaway Anna , Rolas Loïc , Nourshargh Sussan , Dorado Beatriz , Benedicto Ignacio , Andrés Vicente
Published: October 2021

Background:

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare disorder characterized by premature aging and death mainly because of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure. The disease is provoked by progerin, a variant of lamin A expressed in most differentiated cells. Patients look healthy at birth, and symptoms typically emerge in the first or second year of life. Assessing the reversibility of progerin-induced damage and the relative contribution of specific cell types is critical to determining the potential benefits of late treatment and to developing new therapies.

Methods:

We used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to generate
Lmna

HGPSrev/HGPSrev

(
HGPSrev
) mice engineered to ubiquitously express progerin while lacking lamin A and allowing progerin suppression and lamin A restoration in a time- and cell type–specific manner on Cre recombinase activation. We characterized the phenotype of
HGPSrev
mice and crossed them with Cre transgenic lines to assess the effects of suppressing progerin and restoring lamin A ubiquitously at different disease stages as well as specifically in vascular smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes.

Results:

Like patients with HGPS,
HGPSrev
mice appear healthy at birth and progressively develop HGPS symptoms, including failure to thrive, lipodystrophy, vascular smooth muscle cell loss, vascular fibrosis, electrocardiographic anomalies, and precocious death (median lifespan of 15 months versus 26 months in wild-type controls,
P
<0.0001). Ubiquitous progerin suppression and lamin A restoration significantly extended lifespan when induced in 6-month-old mildly symptomatic mice and even in severely ill animals aged 13 months, although the benefit was much more pronounced on early intervention (84.5% lifespan extension in mildly symptomatic mice,
P
<0.0001, and 6.7% in severely ill mice,
P
<0.01). It is remarkable that major vascular alterations were prevented and lifespan normalized in
HGPSrev
mice when progerin suppression and lamin A restoration were restricted to vascular smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes.

Conclusions:

HGPSrev
mice constitute a new experimental model for advancing knowledge of HGPS. Our findings suggest that it is never too late to treat HGPS, although benefit is much more pronounced when progerin is targeted in mice with mild symptoms. Despite the broad expression pattern of progerin and its deleterious effects in many organs, restricting its suppression to vascular smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes is sufficient to prevent vascular disease and normalize lifespan.
Endothelial GTPCH (GTP Cyclohydrolase 1) and Tetrahydrobiopterin Regulate Gestational Blood Pressure, Uteroplacental Remodeling, and Fetal Growth
Authors: Chuaiphichai Surawee , Yu Grace Z. , Tan Cheryl M.J. , Whiteman Christopher , Douglas Gillian , Dickinson Yasmin , Drydale Edward N. , Appari Mahesh , Zhang Wei , Crabtree Mark J. , McNeill Eileen , Hale Ashley B. , Lewandowski Adam J. , Alp Nicholas J. , Vatish Manu , Leeson Paul , Channon Keith M.
Published: October 2021

Abnormal uteroplacental remodeling leads to placental hypoperfusion, causing fetal growth restriction and pregnancy-related hypertension, which are associated with endothelial dysfunction and markers of reduced vascular NO bioavailability and oxidative stress. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is a redox cofactor for eNOS (endothelial NO synthase) with a required role in NO generation. Using mice models and human samples, we investigated the physiological requirement for endothelial cell BH4 in uteroplacental vascular adaptation and blood pressure regulation to pregnancy. In pregnant mice, selective maternal endothelial BH4 deficiency resulting from targeted deletion of
Gch1
caused progressive hypertension during pregnancy and fetal growth restriction. Maternal endothelial cell
Gch1
deletion caused defective functional and structural remodeling in uterine arteries and in spiral arteries, leading to placental insufficiency. Using primary endothelial cells isolated from either normal or hypertensive pregnancies, we found that hypertensive pregnancies are associated with reduced endothelial cell BH4 levels, impaired eNOS activity, and reduced endothelial cell proliferation, mediated by reduced GTPCH (GTP cyclohydrolase 1) protein. In rescue experiments, high blood pressure and fetal growth restriction in pregnant endothelial cell
Gch1
deficient mice was not rescued by oral BH4 supplementation, due to systemic oxidation of BH4 to dihydrobiopterin. However, the fully reduced folate, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate prevented BH4 oxidation, reduced blood pressure to normal levels, and normalized fetal growth. We identify a critical requirement for maternal endothelial cell BH4 biosynthesis in uteroplacental vascular remodeling in pregnancy. Restoration of endothelial cell BH4 with reduced folates identifies a novel therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of pregnancy-related hypertension such as preeclampsia.
Using Well-Understood Single-Objective Functions in Multiobjective Black-Box Optimization Test Suites
Authors: Brockhoff Dimo , Auger Anne , Hansen Nikolaus , Tušar Tea
Published: October 2021

Several test function suites are being used for numerical benchmarking of multiobjective optimization algorithms. While they have some desirable properties, such as well-understood Pareto sets and Pareto fronts of various shapes, most of the currently used functions possess characteristics that are arguably underrepresented in real-world problems such as separability, optima located exactly at the boundary constraints, and the existence of variables that solely control the distance between a solution and the Pareto front. Via the alternative construction of combining existing single-objective problems from the literature, we describe the bbob-biobj test suite with 55 bi-objective functions in continuous domain, and its extended version with 92 bi-objective functions (bbob-biobj-ext). Both test suites have been implemented in the COCO platform for black-box optimization benchmarking and various visualizations of the test functions are shown to reveal their properties. Besides providing details on the construction of these problems and presenting their (known) properties, this article also aims at giving the rationale behind our approach in terms of groups of functions with similar properties, objective space normalization, and problem instances. The latter allows us to easily compare the performance of deterministic and stochastic solvers, which is an often overlooked issue in benchmarking.
Effects of Microwave Irradiation on the Synthesis of ZnFe2O4 Nanopowders with Hydrated Compounds
Authors: Shin So-Young , Yun Han-Sol , Kim Su-Yeon , Shim Jae-Hyun , Park Kwon-Jin , You Chun-Yeol , Cho Nam-Hee
Published: October 2021

In this study, we investigated the effect of microwave irradiation on the synthesis of ZnFe2O4 (ZFO) nanopowders. The structural, chemical, and physical features of the powders prepared via microwave-assisted heating (MWH) were analyzed with variation in the initial
precursors and synthesis temperatures. Three different types of source batches, namely Zn(CH3CO2)2 · 2H2O and FeC2O4 · 2H2O (ZAHFOH), Zn(NO3)3 · 6H2O and Fe(NO3)2
· 9H2O (ZNHFNH), and ZnO and Fe2O3 (ZOFO), were prepared. The formation of ZFO compounds was achieved at 100 °C for ZAHFOH using MWH, which is much lower than the synthesis temperature of 700 °C using conventional heating (CH). The value of the
activation energy (Q) for the ZAHFOH source in synthesis using MWH was approximately 7.9 kJ/mol, which is approximately one-tenth of the Q value (100.7 kJ/mol) for ZOFO using CH. It was determined that the inversion factors were approximately 5.4, 4.3, and 4.0, and the crystallite sizes
were 57.7, 72.5, and 78.9 nm for the ZAHFOH, ZNHFNH, and ZOFO, respectively. The ZFO powders exhibited superparamagnetism for ZAHFOH and paramagnetism for ZNHFNH and ZOFO. Based on the crystallite size-related surface effects, redistribution of the Zn and Fe ions occurred. This phenomenon
is attributed to the magnetic transformation of ZFO. Based on these results, it is expected that a sensitively tunable size and magnetic properties can be achieved using MWH.
Loess Classification by Region Using Machine Learning Property Values and Reliability Assessment Methods
Authors: Jang Hongseok , Xing Shuli , Kim Juhee , So Seungyoung
Published: October 2021

Majority of the loess in Korea is the soil that is formed during rock weathering, and its characteristics vary widely depending on the bedrock type, degree of weathering, and climatic conditions. Consequently, it is necessary to acquire objective data on loess based on its location
of production and corresponding properties. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess the basic properties of nine representative loess samples. The amount of water required to knead each of these samples was calculated using the standard cement leading method; further, properties
including hardness, cohesiveness, springiness, adhesiveness, fracturability, chewi-ness, gumminess and resilience were measured using a texture analyzer. Three machine learning approaches were adopted to classify the samples based on the measured features, namely: support vector machine (SVM),
k-nearest neighbors (KNN), and deep neural network (DNN). The results showed that SVM produced the highest training and test classification accuracy; meanwhile, DNN presented the best generalization ability.
Preparation of Dopamine Nanoparticles and Its Application in the Treatment of Neonatal Scleredema
Authors: Chen Guoping , Jin Dongmei , Jiang Xuesong , Qiu Yushan
Published: October 2021

The polydopamine (PDA) nanoparticles were prepared by the aqueous phase oxidation, and doxorubicin (DOX) was applied on surface of PDA under appropriate temperature and Pondus Hydrogenii (pH) conditions. The human umbilical vein-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUV-MSCs) were sub-cultured,
and then destroyed by lysing and freeze-thaw to obtain the stem cell membrane (SSM) fragments, which were squeezed using the polycarbonate porous membrane and then wrapped in the surfaces of the PDA nanoparticles by means of water bath ultrasound. In this way, the biomimetic nano medicine
was synthesized. In the experiment, the DOX release amount of the nanomedicine under different conditions was analyzed. Under the precondition that the concentration of the drug was changed, and it was used to explore proliferation activity of human esophageal cancer cell (Eca-109). Mice with
sclerosed skin caused by scleredema were selected as the test subjects to observe the inhibitory effect of the prepared drugs on its fibrosis. In addition, 90 cases of neonatal scleredema were selected and grouped to verify the improvement effect of nano-medicine injection on their symptoms.
The results relaved that average particle size (APS) of synthesized drug was 77.6±8.5 nm, and the drug loading of DOX loaded on the surface of PDA was 18.4%. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) displayed that surface of prepared drug was structured with cell membrane, and the
release of DOX was correlated with the pH of the drug solution. Under the condition of a certain DOX concentration, the prepared nano-drug could kill the Eca-109 cells strongly (P < 0.05). In the sclerosing phase, the skin thickness and collagen index of the mice could be reduced
by injecting different doses of the drug solutions (P < 0.05), while the content of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)/platelet-derived growth factor A-chain (PDGFA) was decreased (P < 0.05). The severity score of newborn children was greatly reduced
after drug injection treatment; and the temperature recovery time, sclerosis disappearance time, and hospitalization time were shortened to a great extent (P < 0.05).
Preparation of Titanium Nano Dental Implant Modified by Chitosan/Si Casein Kinase 2 Interacting Protein 1 and Its Adoption in Osteogenesis and Accelerated Osseointegration
Authors: Zhang Liangfu , Zhang Xu , Zhang Shusheng
Published: October 2021

Casein kinase 2 interacting protein 1 (Ckip-1) is involved in bone metabolism. It was utilized to modify dental implants and its application prospects in the field of denture implants were analyzed. Chitosan (CS), as a gene carrier, forms a CS/siCkip-1 complex with Ckip-1 siRNA by means
of electrostatic interaction. Pure titanium implants (PT) took hydrofluoric acid (HF) acid etching plus anodizing to form nano implants, which then formed alkali heat-treated nano-titanium (NTA) after being heated with NaOH solution. CS/siCkip-1 complex was loaded on the surface of NTA to
form NTA-CS/siCkip-1 implants. Then, the prepared CS/siCkip-1 implants were characterized and their effects on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow mes-enchymal stem cells (rBMMSCs) were evaluated. In addition, a rat model of osteoporosis was established, and
the effect of NTA-CS/siCkip-1 implants on early osseointegration was explored under osteoporotic conditions. NTA-CS/siCkip-1 implants were utilized in the clinical treatment of dental restoration, and its therapeutic effect in osteogenesis and dental integration was explored. The results showed
that the NTA formed by alkali heating had a porous fibrous network structure. The composite was uniformly loaded on the surface of the NTA implant to form a siCkip-1 layer with a thickness of about 1,700 nm. There was no remarkable difference in the level of cell proliferation among NTA nano
implants (NTA, NTA/CS, NTA-CS/siNC, and NTA-CS/siCkip-1) (P > 0.05). Moreover, siCkip-1 exerted RNA interference effect in cells and promoted alkaline phosphatase (ALP) expression, collagen secretion, and extracellular matrix mineralization. The bone mechanical properties of the
NTA-CS/siCkip-1 implant group were significantly superior to those of other NTA-grade material groups in the rat osteoporosis model (P < 0.05). Clinical trials revealed that the survival rate of prepared implants exceeded 99%, and the soft tissues around the implants were healthy
and stable. Therefore, the implant can form good osseointegration with the alveolar bone.
In-Situ Grown Sheet-Like Nanostructure of NiCo2S4 for High Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhao Yan , Li Yucai , Zhang Dong , Song Shiwei , Wang Jian , Ke Yunjie
Published: October 2021

NiCo2S4 nanosheet electrode material for supercapacitor is prepared by a facile hydrothermal method. The as-prepared samples are characterized through XRD, SEM and XPS techniques. The synthesized NiCo2S4 nanosheet electrodes deliver a mass
specific capacitance of 744 C/g at 1 A/g. The as-fabricated device shows a high specific capacitance. After 10000 times of charge and discharge, the capacitance retention rate kept almost 100%, demonstrating that NiCo2S4 nanowire electrode materials can be used in advanced
electrode materials.
The Implications of Executive Functioning on Community Adversity and Violence and Mental Health Outcomes
Authors: Irsheid Sireen B. , Garthe Rachel C. , Gorman-Smith Deborah , Schoeny Michael
Published: October 2021

Exposure to community adversities and violence can be associated with a cascade of neurocognitive, mental health, and behavioral challenges among urban adolescents. Influenced by the bio-ecological framework, this study examines if problems with executive functioning (EF) exacerbate the relation between exposure to community adversity and violence and internalizing symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms) and externalizing behaviors (e.g., hyperactivity and attention problems) for males and females. Participants included 300 primarily African American and Latine adolescents ( Mage = 15.42, SD = 1.21; 51% female) who reside in 30 census tracts from urban neighborhoods historically and systematically divested from, located on the West and South sides of Chicago. Pending the radical reconfiguration of power, systems, and community to fundamentally challenge the systemic policies and processes that contribute to these adverse experiences, findings from this study provide important implications for clinical practice and school-based interventions that could support adolescents’ psychological, behavioral, and emotional needs.
No typical care story: How do care-experienced young people and foster carers understand fostering relationships?
Authors: Sprecher Eva A , Tuitt Ikesha , Hill Debbie , Midgley Nick , Sleed Michelle
Published: October 2021

Although an understanding of the lived experience of foster care relationships can provide valuable information to guide social work practice and policy, few such studies have been carried out. This article presents findings from a qualitative investigation exploring experiences of relationships between foster carers and the young people in their care. Eight care-experienced young people and nine foster carers participated in interviews and focus groups. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to explore their experiences. The insider’s perspective was further amplified through engaging peer researchers with experience of fostering relationships – one a young person who had been in care, the other a long-term carer. Two overarching themes were identified. Firstly, participants made sense of fostering relationships through comparisons with birth family ones, particularly in relation to the impact of care systems, continuing biological family relationships and foster care language. Secondly, previous experiences created barriers to forming positive fostering relationships, but when these were overcome the experience could be life changing. The implications of these findings for social care policy regarding foster carer support, training and matching guidelines are discussed.
Systemic lupus erythematosus and pregnancy: A retrospective single-center study of 215 pregnancies from Portugal
Authors: Braga António , Barros Tânia , Faria Raquel , Marinho António , Carvalheira Graziela , Rocha Guilherme , Farinha Fátima , Neves Esmeralda , Vasconcelos Carlos , Braga Jorge
Published: October 2021

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a life-threatening disorder that affects women at reproductive age. We evaluate the clinical impact of pregnancy in a cohort of Portuguese SLE patients and the risk factors associated with maternal and fetal adverse outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective observational study that included all pregnant women with SLE managed at a Portuguese tertiary hospital, between January 1993 and December 2019. Baseline maternal information was collected, and maternal–fetal and neonatal outcomes were evaluated. Disease activity before and during pregnancy was assessed.

Results

We included 215 pregnancies from 143 patients. Lupus nephritis was present in 20.0% and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) in 21.9% of the cases. Preconception consultation was performed in 86.9% of the pregnancies, and 92.5% of the patients had no or low disease activity at conception. During gestation, 79.6% of the patients were under treatment, and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) was the most commonly used drug (63.7%). Low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) was prescribed at conception in 87.9% of the patients. The live birth rate was 84.2%. An adverse pregnancy outcome (APO) occurred in 41.4% of the pregnancies. A miscarriage rate of 15.3% and a preterm delivery rate of 15.4% were found. Preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction complicated 13.1% and 14.0% of the gestations, respectively. Neonatal lupus occurred in 7.1% of the newborns, and there were 2 cases of congenital heart block. Significant risk factors for the development of AOP were disease activity at conception, lupus flare, hypocomplementemia, positivity for lupus anticoagulant, and APS. The use of ASA was significantly associated with a reduced incidence of miscarriage. An SLE flare was diagnosed in 16.3% of the cases. We identified as risk factors for lupus flares the presence of active disease at conception, a previous history of lupus nephritis, and the use of chronic medication. HCQ use during pregnancy was associated with a significant reduction of flare incidence during pregnancy and postpartum.

Conclusions

Pregnancy in an SLE patient is associated with an increased incidence of adverse obstetric outcomes. Good disease control before pregnancy and adequate treatment, especially with HCQ, is crucial to achieving the best obstetric results.
Unpacking context in realist evaluations: Findings from a comprehensive review
Authors: Nielsen Steffen Bohni , Lemire Sebastian , Tangsig Stinne
Published: October 2021

Realist evaluation is an established approach in evaluation. The main question driving realist evaluation is to uncover how, for whom, and under what conditions an intervention works. This is accomplished by empirically examining the inner mechanisms by which an intervention generates outcomes within a particular context—explicating the underlying context–mechanism–outcome configurations. Despite the central role of context in realist evaluation, systematic knowledge about how context is conceptualized and applied in realist evaluation is limited. Informed by the findings of a comprehensive review, the aim of this article is to unpack how context is conceptualized in realist evaluations, the types of contextual factors examined as part of context–mechanism–outcome configurations, and the methodological challenges experienced by evaluators when examining these in realist evaluations. The article concludes with a discussion of conceptual and practical developments for future applications of realist evaluations.
Data monitoring committee interim reports: We must get there soon!
Authors: DeMets David L , Wittes Janet
Published: October 2021

Currently, too many Data Monitoring Committee Reports for interim review of trial progress are quite inadequate for Data Monitoring Committees to make informed decisions about risks and benefits. Immediate serious improvement is necessary for Data Monitoring Committees to meet their ethical, clinical, and scientific responsibility to trial participants, investigators, sponsors, and participating institutions. To achieve this critical goal, all parties involved in the Data Monitoring Committee process including sponsors, investigators, Data Monitoring Committee members, and the independent statistical reporting group need to have a better understanding of the structure, function, and needs of a Data Monitoring Committee and the content of a Data Monitoring Committee Report. Training modules through the Society for Clinical Trials are now available on their website to facilitate this.
Aneurysmal Bone Cysts of the Craniofacial Origin: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rehman Rafey , Dekhou Antonio , Osto Muhammad , Agemy Jacob , Chaaban Amneah , Yuhan Brian , Thorpe Eric
Published: October 2021

Objective

Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are blood‐filled, locally destructive, benign bone tumors. Our objective was to conduct a systematic review outlining patient demographics, clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of those with ABCs of the craniofacial bones.

Data Sources

Using PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases, 116 studies were included.

Review Methods

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines, a systematic review was conducted. Data including patient demographics, clinical characteristics, treatment strategies, and patient outcomes were collected.

Results

A total of 127 patients from 116 studies were identified. Age ranged from 8 months to 90 years, with a mean age of 19.0 years. The most commonly affected craniofacial locations were the mandible (n = 31, 24.4%), temporal bone (n = 21, 16.5%), and occipital bone (n = 14, 11.0%). The most common presenting symptoms included a nontender mass (n = 51, 40.2%), a tender mass (n = 31, 24.4%), and generalized headache (n = 30, 23.6%). Imaging modalities included computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (n = 77, 60.6%), CT alone (n = 31, 24.4%), and MRI alone (n = 8, 6.2%). All patients underwent surgical resection, with 1 patient requiring adjuvant radiation in addition to surgery. In total, 121 patients were disease‐free and symptom‐free without evidence of recurrence (17.4‐month mean follow‐up, 5.4 months average time to first recurrence).

Conclusion

The current literature’s characterization of ABCs in craniofacial bones is limited to case reports and case series. Given the rarity of these tumors, head and neck surgeons may rely on systematic reviews such as the present analysis to guide management.
Cost‐effective Analysis of Subcutaneous vs Sublingual Immunotherapy From the Payor’s Perspective
Authors: Hardin Frances Mei , Eskander Peter N. , Franzese Christine
Published: October 2021

Objective

Compare the cost‐effectiveness of subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and aqueous sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) as treatment modalities for adult patients with allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis who undergo testing and qualify for allergen immunotherapy (AIT).

Methods

A systematic review was performed to identify key statistics for analysis, including the compliance and efficacy rates for each treatment. The body of literature on this topic is highly heterogeneous, so ranges were obtained and assumptions stated clearly where they were made. Charges were derived from average commercial payor charges from a single hospital institution. A hypothetical 100 patients are examined for the study.

Results

A cost‐effectiveness sensitivity analysis was then performed using a decision tree model to compare the modalities. A sensitivity and threshold analysis was then performed to assess the strength of recommendations after identifying results at baseline.

Discussion

Assuming an 80% compliance rate with allergen immunotherapy and an estimated efficacy (assumed to be clinically significant improvement in symptoms) of 70% for SLIT and 80% for SCIT, at the 12‐month mark, the baseline total cost to the payor of SLIT per successful treatment outcome is $1196 while the charge of SCIT per successful treatment outcome is $2691. Our analysis favors SLIT as the more cost‐effective modality per successful outcome.

Implications for Practice

When compared to SCIT, SLIT is economically favorable and should be considered the financially conscious option for patients with >40% adherence to therapy.
Global connectivity in genome-scale metabolic networks revealed by comprehensive FBA-based pathway analysis
Authors: Gao Yajie , Yuan Qianqian , Mao Zhitao , Liu Hao , Ma Hongwu
Published: October 2021

Background

Graph-based analysis (GBA) of genome-scale metabolic networks has revealed system-level structures such as the bow-tie connectivity that describes the overall mass flow in a network. However, many pathways obtained by GBA are biologically impossible, making it difficult to study how the global structures affect the biological functions of a network. New method that can calculate the biologically relevant pathways is desirable for structural analysis of metabolic networks.

Results

Here, we present a new method to determine the bow-tie connectivity structure by calculating possible pathways between any pairs of metabolites in the metabolic network using a flux balance analysis (FBA) approach to ensure that the obtained pathways are biologically relevant. We tested this method with 15 selected high-quality genome-scale metabolic models from BiGG database. The results confirmed the key roles of central metabolites in network connectivity, locating in the core part of the bow-tie structure, the giant strongly connected component (GSC). However, the sizes of GSCs revealed by GBA are significantly larger than those by FBA approach. A great number of metabolites in the GSC from GBA actually cannot be produced from or converted to other metabolites through a mass balanced pathway and thus should not be in GSC but in other subsets of the bow-tie structure. In contrast, the bow-tie structural classification of metabolites obtained by FBA is more biologically relevant and suitable for the study of the structure-function relationships of genome scale metabolic networks.

Conclusions

The FBA based pathway calculation improve the biologically relevant classification of metabolites in the bow-tie connectivity structure of the metabolic network, taking us one step further toward understanding how such system-level structures impact the biological functions of an organism.
Circulating adipsin is associated with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis in obese adults
Authors: Zhang Jinhua , Teng Fei , Pan Lingling , Guo Dan , Liu Jianfang , Li Kangli , Yuan Youwen , Li Wenyuan , Zhang Huijie
Published: October 2021

Background

Adipsin has been identified as a secreted adipokine that plays a critical pathogenic role in metabolic disorders. However, it is not clear regarding the association of circulating adipsin with cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study will explore the association between circulating adipsin and asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis in Chinese obese adults.

Methods

A total of 483 obese adult subjects (aged 40 years or older) were enrolled in this study. Serum adipsin concentrations and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) were measured to determine these associations.

Results

Individuals with increased CIMT and asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis had lower levels of circulating adipsin than controls (both p < 0.05). The prevalence of asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis was significantly higher in subjects with lower levels of serum adipsin than those with higher values (42.5% vs. 36.7%, p < 0.05). Notably, subjects in the lowest quartile of serum adipsin were 1.94 times (p = 0.059) more likely to have increased CIMT and 2.91 times (p = 0.03) more likely to have asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis than those in the highest quartile in multivariable logistic regression analyses, adjusting for age, gender, current smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, BMI, systolic BP, fasting glucose, total cholesterol, HDL-c, and HOMA-IR. However, such associations with circulating adipsin were not noted for atherosclerotic plaque.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that circulating adipsin concentrations are a potential marker of risks of increased CIMT and asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis in obese Chinese adults.