bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemodynamic Effects of Intravenous Famotidine in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Wagner Bertil K.J. , DiFazio Louis T. , Amory David W. , Scott Gregory E. , Spotnitz . Alan J.
Published: October 2023

Study Objective. To determine the hemodynamic effects of famotidine in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Design. A prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study.

Setting. A large university teaching hospital.

Patients. Twenty‐one patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass.

Interventions. The patients received a rapid intravenous bolus injection of famotidine 20 mg or saline placebo after anesthesia induction. A second dose was given 12 hours after surgery in the intensive care unit.

Measurements and Main Results. Serial hemodynamic measurements (heart rate, arterial blood pressure, cardiac index, pulmonary arterial pressure, central venous pressure, systemic vascular resistance) were obtained after each famotidine or placebo dose and analyzed by ANOVA. The values were not altered (p>0.05) after intraoperative or postoperative famotidine or placebo administration.

Conclusions. Rapid intravenous bolus administration of famotidine does not alter patient hemodynamics after anesthesia induction or in the intensive care unit after cardiac surgery.
Effects of Pravastatin on Plasma Lipid Concentrations in Poloxamer 407‐Induced Hyperlipidemic Rats
Authors: Porter Julie A. , Carter Barry L. , Johnston Thomas P. , Palmer Warren K.
Published: October 2023

A new animal model of hyperlipidemia is being developed using the nonionic surfactant poloxamer 407 (P‐407). We investigated the impact of pravastatin on P‐407‐induced hyperlipidemia. Twenty rats received P‐407 300 mg intraperitoneally to induce hyperlipidemia, and 20 control rats received saline injection. Pravastatin was administered orally to an equal number of rats in both groups using three different regimens. A fourth group did not receive pravastatin. At 24 hours after injection, total cholesterol levels in two of the pravastatin groups were 28% and 34% lower than those in animals that did not receive pravastatin (p≤0.01). At 48 hours, triglyceride levels were significantly lower in all pravastatin groups (21–44%) versus animals not receiving pravastatin. Pravastatin diminished the effects of P‐407 on lipoproteins. This new animal model may be useful in screening for investigational antihyperlipidemic agents.
Lymphocyte β2‐Receptor Activity, Metoprolol Kinetics, and Response to Metoprolol in Hypertensive Black Men
Authors: Johnson Julie A. , Akers Wendell S. , Miller Stephen T. , Applegate William B.
Published: October 2023

Study Objectives. To evaluate whether variability in S‐metoprolol kinetics and lymphocyte β2‐receptor‐mediated cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) accumulation is related to the variability in antihypertensive response to metoprolol of black men.

Design. Prospective, unblinded study.

Setting. University‐based preventive medicine clinic.

Patients. Twelve hypertensive black men.

Measurements and Main Results. Ambulatory blood pressure was measured over 24 hours before and after metoprolol administration. Ex vivo responsiveness of lymphocyte β2‐receptors to isoproterenol was established for each subject before initiating metoprolol therapy. Plasma samples were collected over 12 hours at the conclusion of the study, from which metoprolol enantiomer concentrations were determined by chiral high‐performance liquid chromatography, and kinetic values were calculated. The 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure responses to metoprolol were highly variable, with systolic blood pressure responses ranging from −13 to +33 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure responses ranging from −15 to +15 mm Hg. There was a significant relationship between the metoprolol‐induced change in systolic blood pressure and the maximum lymphocyte β2‐receptor cAMP production (y = 0.47x −7.79; r2 = 0.49, p<0.05) such that those with the highest maximum cAMP production had the greatest blood pressure increases during metoprolol therapy. There was no relationship between S‐metoprolol concentration and blood pressure response. Mean oral clearance values for S‐ and R‐metoprolol were 1320 and 2346 ml/minute, respectively.

Conclusions. Lymphocyte β2‐receptor data suggest that individuals most responsive to β‐receptor stimulation may be at greatest risk of blood pressure elevation during β2‐receptor blockade. The metoprolol enantiomer kinetic data are markedly different from previously published data and may represent racial differences in pharmacokinetics.
Current Patterns of Prescribing and Administering Morphine in Trauma Patients
Authors: Whipple Julianne K. , Lewis Kelly S. , Quebbeman Edward J. , Esser Michael J. , Gottlieb Mark S. , McKindley David S. , Hess Mary , Boucher Bradley A. , Jancik Jon T. , Wesley Linda C. , Erstad Brian , Ausman Robert K.
Published: October 2023

We attempted to characterize the current prescribing practices and administration patterns for intravenous intermittent morphine in trauma patients in a multicenter, open prospective, observational study. The subjects were 141 patients admitted to the surgical intensive care units (ICU) of five United States trauma centers within 12 hours of injury who received intermittent intravenous morphine for pain relief. The study was conducted from April 15, 1992, to February 15, 1993. Data obtained during the first 32 hours of the ICU stay included morphine regimen, doses administered, and time between doses. One hundred sixty‐one orders were prescribed by surgeons. The most frequently ordered dose was 2–4 mg and the most frequently ordered interval was every hour as necessary. There was no relationship between the severity of injury and the minimum dose ordered. During the 492 nursing shifts studied, 1257 doses were administered. Of these, 44% were at or below the minimum amount prescribed by the surgeons. Thirty‐three percent of the patients received a dose at an interval of more than 3 hours. We concluded that small amounts of narcotic analgesics are given to severely injured patients, and amount ordered is not affected by the severity of injury.
Update on Talc, Bleomycin, and the Tetracyclines in the Treatment of Malignant Pleural Effusions
Authors: Schafers Stephen J. , Dresler Carolyn M.
Published: October 2023

Talc has been used to treat malignant pleural effusions (MPE) for over 30 years and is usually considered to be the most effective chemical agent for pleurodesis. Clinicians, aware of limited reports of serious adverse effects attributed to talc, have generally reserved it for selected patients who are refractory to first‐line chemical sclerosants. Tetracycline and bleomycin have therefore been cited as the preferred agents for the treatment of MPE. Clinical studies reported over the last 5 years reflect a continuing interest in talc as a chemical sclerosant and provide evidence of its effectiveness with minimal side effects. Comparisons with other agents are necessary to evaluate further the application of talc insufflation in the thoracoscopy suite and talc slurry at the patients bedside. As clinicians continue to debate the relative merits of various pleurodesis agents, talc appears to be a reasonable choice for the treatment of MPE.
The Future of Cell Therapy
Authors: Yee Gary C.
Published: October 2023

Peripheral blood has replaced bone marrow as a source of hematopoietic stem cells for autologous rescue after high‐dose chemotherapy. Patients who receive peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) transplants experience rapid and sustained hematopoietic reconstitution. As a result, transplant‐related mortality is now less than 5% at many centers, and the cost of high‐dose chemotherapy has decreased considerably. However, the relapse rate continues to be unacceptably high, and the collection of hematopoietic stem cells from peripheral blood is inconvenient, time consuming, and expensive. This article discusses the current status of novel technologies such as positive selection of hematopoietic stem cells, ex vivo expansion of hematopoietic progenitor cells, allogeneic PBSC transplants, and umbilical cord blood transplants. Several companies are actively developing devices that positively select hematopoietic stem cells. Because positive selection reduces the volume of infused cells, patients experience fewer adverse effects related to dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) or lysed cells. These devices may also serve as an ex vivo method to remove (“purge”) residual tumor cells. Positively selected hematopoietic stem cells may be expanded ex vivo to produce a large number of a specific population of hematopoietic cells. By adding cytokines that stimulate and activate lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and other immune effector cells, investigators could expand the number of immune effector cells with antitumor activity and then infuse them into patients as a form of adoptive immunotherapy. Finally, peripheral blood and umbilical cord blood are promising new sources of hematopoietic stem cells for allogeneic transplants.
Importance of Total Motile Oval Count in Interpreting the Hamster Ovum Sperm Penetration Assay
Authors: BRANDEIS VINCENT T.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: A prospective study relating computer‐assisted semen analysis (CASA) and technician‐determined morphology to sperm penetration assay (SPA) outcome in patients with unexplained infertility or male factor was undertaken on 190 males aged 28–45 to determine the value of total motile oval count (TMO), compared to concentration, motility, and morphology considered independently, in predicting the outcome of the SPA. Prewash sperm count ranged 20–1,328 × 106, motility 0–93%, morphology 25–78% oval (%OVAL), and SPA scores 0–100%. Multiple regression analysis yielded two statistical models that identified significant predictors for % penetration (%P). Only TMO in one model and %OVAL in an independent effects model showed statistically significant correlation (P < 0.0001) to %P for all subjects. Discriminant function analysis showed the TMO model 85.4% accurate in classifying %P both in the abnormal range (<20%P) and in the normal range (≥20%P). The independent effects model correctly classified 93% in the abnormal group, but protected 72 false negatives in the 101 subjects with %P ≥20%, correctly classifying only 28.7%. Relative risk analysis showed TMO as a stronger risk factor affecting SPA outcome than %OVAL. It is concluded from this study that below 20%P, both TMO and %OVAL appeared to be comparable as predictive factors. Additionally, the TMO model was equally predictive for SPA ≥20%P, where the independent effects model showed only 28.7% accuracy. SPA outcome appeared to be more profoundly affected by a decrease in TMO than by a decrease in %OVAL alone.
Cryopreservation Reduces the Ability of Equine Spermatozoa to Attach to Oviductal Epithelial Cells and Zonae PellucidaeIn Vitro
Authors: DOBRINSKI INA , THOMAS PHILIP G. A. , BALL BARRY A.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT:Two bioassays were used to evaluate the interaction of fresh and cryopreserved equine semen with oviductal epithelial cells (OEC) and with the zona pelludda (ZP). Split ejaculates were either stored at room temperature or frozen and thawed. In experiment 1, progressive motility and membrane integrity were evaluated for each treatment. Fluorescent labeled spermatozoa were cocultured with monolayers of OEC for 30 minutes, and the number of sperm attached to OEC was counted by fluorescence microscopy and analysis of digitized images. Motility of spermatozoa attached to OEC was observed at 0.5, 3, 6, 18, 24, and 48 hours after insemination. In experiment 2, progressive motility, membrane integrity, and acrosomal integrity were determined. Differential labeling with the fluorochromes fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) or tetra‐methylrhodamine isothiocyanate (TRITC) was used to distinguish fresh and frozen‐thawed spermatozoa. Equal numbers of motile spermatozoa from each treatment were incubated with salt‐stored equine oocytes for 4 hours, and the number of spermatozoa firmly bound to the ZP was counted using dual‐wavelength epifluorescence microscopy. Fewer (P< 0.001) cryopreserved spermatozoa attached to OEC compared to spermatozoa stored at room temperature. The motility of spermatozoa attached to OEC decreased over time within each treatment group (P< 0.001), but this decrease was not different between treatments. The mean number of spermatozoa bound per ZP and percentage of acrosome‐intact spermatozoa were lower (P< 0.05) for frozen‐thawed than for fresh spermatozoa. There was no effect of stallion on acrosomal status of frozen‐thawed spermatozoa; however, the number of spermatozoa bound per ZP was different between stallions within treatments (P< 0.05). These results indicate that the ability of cryopreserved equine spermatozoa to attach to equine OEC or ZPin vitrois reduced compared to fresh extended spermatozoa due to changes other than a reduction in post‐thaw motility or membrane integrity. The decreased ability of frozen‐thawed spermatozoa to attach to OEC or to ZP could explain, in part, the reduced fertility of cryopreserved compared to fresh spermatozoa in the horse.
The long arm of rejection sensitivity and young adults' romantic relationships: An extension and a replication
Authors: Shulman Shmuel , Yonatan‐Leus Refael
Published: October 2023

Introduction

In an earlier study, we followed adolescents from age 16 to 23, examining the effect of rejection sensitivity (RS) on the quality of future romantic relationships. Findings showed that RS decreased over time, and the decrease associated with a higher quality of future romantic relationships. In contrast, the effect of the earlier level of RS on the quality of future romantic relationships was minor.

Methods

Extending the earlier study, these 101 Israeli young adults (69 females, mean age = 22.79) were followed again from age 23 to 28. At age 28, the level of RS was assessed again. In addition, participants reported about the quality of their current or most recent romantic relationship.

Results

Contrary to the earlier study, findings of the current study show that the earlier higher level of RS at age 23 was associated with a higher likelihood of maintaining distance and self concealing from one's partner, feeling less certain, and reporting greater tension in future relationships. In contrast, the effect of change in RS between ages 23 and 28 on future relationships was minimal.

Conclusions

Integrating the findings of the current and earlier studies underscores the role of earlier RS and its change over time during different developmental periods. RS decreases during the transition from adolescence to adulthood, and this decrease associates with a future higher quality of romantic relationships. In contrast, during the latter 20s RS stabilizes, and therefore, its earlier level associates with future romantic outcomes.
On the impulsivity path: Examining the unique and conjoint relations between emotion‐ and non‐emotion‐related impulsivity, internalizing symptoms, alcohol use, and physical health parameters
Authors: Javelle Florian , Schlagheck Marit L. , Broos Hannah C. , Timpano Kiara R. , Joormann Jutta , Zimmer Philipp , Johnson Sheri L.
Published: October 2023

Background

Researchers have increasingly differentiated trait‐like tendencies toward impulsivity occurring during emotional states (emotion‐related impulsivity [ERI]) from impulsivity not tied to emotion (non‐ERI). Relative to non‐ERI, ERI has shown robust correlations with psychopathology and mild to moderate associations with physical health parameters (e.g., physical activity, poor sleep quality, body mass index [BMI]). Therefore, we first aimed to investigate the unique contributions of ERI and non‐ERI to psychopathology symptoms while controlling for neuroticism. Second, we sought to explore the combined associations of physical health parameters with several impulsivity forms.

Methods

German‐speaking adults (N = 350, 35.9 ± 14.6 years, 69.1% female, BMI: 24.0 ± 4.8 kg/m2, mostly students or employees) completed measures of impulsivity, psychopathology symptoms, neuroticism, and physical health. We gathered measures of two ERI forms: Feelings Trigger Action and Pervasive Influence of Feelings. As a control comparison, we gathered a measure of non‐ERI, the Lack of Follow‐Through scale. We conducted separate path models for Aims 1 and 2.

Results

For Aim 1, Pervasive Influence of Feelings showed strong links with internalizing symptoms. Feelings Trigger Action and Lack of Follow‐Through showed small links with alcohol use. For Aim 2, poor sleep quality was related to all three impulsivity factors, while physical activity was only related to Pervasive Influence of Feelings and Lack of Follow‐Through. BMI showed a curvilinear association with impulsivity.

Conclusions

ERI is more directly relevant than non‐ERI for psychopathology symptoms, emphasizing the need to differentiate between the two ERI types. The association of ERI and non‐ERI with physical activity and poor sleep quality may serve as potential treatment targets for impulsivity‐related problems.
Intrapersonal dynamics of closeness versus distance: Qualities of the self‐concept distinguish destructive overdependence, dysfunctional detachment, and healthy dependency
Authors: Bornstein Robert F. , Thomson Shannon M.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

People vary in the degree to which they affiliate with others; exaggerated efforts maintain interpersonal closeness versus distance are codified in longstanding categorical models of personality pathology, and in contemporary dimensional frameworks as well.

Objective

To examine associations between destructive overdependence (DO), dysfuntional detachment (DD), and healthy dependency (HD) and qualities of the self‐concept.

Method

A mixed‐sex sample of 229 adults completed the Relationship Profile Test to assess DO, DD, and HD, and the Object Relations Inventory (ORI) to assess qualities of the self‐concept.

Results and Conclusion

Analyses indicated that (1) the ORI Strong dimension was uniquely predictive of DO (inversely related); (2) ORI Warm and Nurturing were unique predictors of DD (both inversely related); and (3) ORI Nurturing and Successful were unique predictors of HD. This study illuminates key intrapersonal features of these three personality styles.
Cumulative trauma and perceived community resilience: A serial mediation model
Authors: Cardinali Paola , Olcese Martina , Antichi Lorenzo , Migliorini Laura
Published: October 2023

Communities affected by cumulative trauma can experience negative psychological reactions but also posttraumatic growth and community resilience, which promote adaptation and preparation for future traumatic events. This study aims to investigate the mechanisms that mediate the relationship between traumatic events and perceived community resilience. Participants were 118 Italian adults who experienced cumulative trauma and were recruited to complete an online survey. A serial multiple mediation model was estimated to assess whether the impact of the Morandi bridge collapse and posttraumatic growth mediated the relationship between the psychological impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic and perceived community resilience. The impact of the collapsed bridge and posttraumatic growth in serial partially mediated the relationship between the impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic and perceived community resilience. The impact of cumulative trauma can be considered through an ecological perspective that considers the consequences of these events in relation to community resilience.
Activation of ITLN‐1 attenuates oxidative stress injury via activating SIRT1/PGC1‐α signaling in neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Niu Xiaochen , Di Wencheng , Zhang Zhe , Li Ning , Qiu Zhenye , Shi Wenzhen , Lei Wangrui , Tang Jaiyou , Yang Yang , Xu Biao , Tian Ye
Published: October 2023

Cerebral injury is closely associated with enhanced oxidative stress. A newly discovered secretory adipocytokine, intelectin‐1 (ITLN‐1), has been shown to have beneficial effects in neuroprotection in epidemiological studies. However, the specific molecular mechanism of ITLN‐1 in protecting against cerebral oxidative stress needs further investigation. In this study, we hypothesize that ITLN‐1 plays a protective role against oxidative stress injury through the SIRT1/PGC1‐α signaling pathway in neuromatocytes. We used hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a oxidative stress model to simulate oxidative stress injury. Then, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) was used to knock down SIRT1 in N2a cells with or without ITLN overexpression, followed by H2O2‐induced injury. We observed that H2O2 injury significantly decreased the levels of ITLN‐1, SIRT1, and PGC‐1α. However, ITLN overexpression reversed H2O2‐induced decline in cell viability and rise in apoptosis and intracellular ROS levels in N2a cells, while ITLN siRNA worsened the neurocyte injury. Furthermore, SIRT1 knockdown reversed the positive effect of ITLN overexpression on oxidative stress injury in N2a cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that ITLN‐1 exerts neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress injury primarily through the SIRT1/PGC‐1α axis.
Impact of anthropometric parameters on outcomes in Asians with metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease
Authors: Choi Kyu Yeon , Kim Tae Yeon , Chon Young Eun , Kim Mi Na , Lee Joo Ho , Hwang Seong Gyu , Lee Jiwoo , Kwak Mi Kyung , Hong Eun‐Gyoung , Choi Yun Mi , Ha Yeonjung
Published: October 2023

Background

We examined the incidence and predictors of clinical outcomes in metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), focusing on anthropometric parameters.

Methods

Adult patients with MAFLD were identified in nationwide databases and a hospital cohort. Primary endpoints were atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and advanced fibrosis. Logistic and Cox regression analyses were used to analyse the association between anthropometric parameters and endpoints.

Results

In total, 4407 of 15 256 (28.9%) and 6274 of 25 784 subjects (24.3%) had MAFLD in the nationwide database; of these, 403 (9.2%) and 437 (7.0%) subjects were of lean/normal weight, respectively. Compared to the overweight/obese group, the lean/normal weight group had a significantly lower muscle mass (15.0 vs. 18.9 kg) and handgrip strength (31.9 vs. 35.1 kg) and had a higher ASCVD risk (9.0% vs. 6.3% and 15.9% vs. 8.5%; Ps < 0.001). Sarcopenia (odds ratio [OR], 6.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.79–24.80) and handgrip strength (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.86–0.97; Ps = 0.005) were associated with the ASCVD risk in the lean/normal weight group. In a hospital cohort (n = 1363), the ASCVD risk was significantly higher in the lean/normal weight group than in the overweight/obese group (median follow‐up, 39.1 months). Muscle mass was inversely correlated with the ASCVD risk (hazard ratio [HR], 0.72; 95% CI, 0.56–0.94), while visceral adiposity was associated with advanced fibrosis (HR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.10–1.69; Ps < 0.05).

Conclusions

Muscle mass/strength was significantly associated with the ASCVD risk in patients with MAFLD. Visceral adiposity was an independent predictor of advanced fibrosis.
The clinical value of combining shear wave elastography, VOCAL technique, and T2* MRI of early gestation placenta to predict pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Xie Chuanbo , Man Qin , Wan Xiaomei , Ding Yanyun , Li Min
Published: October 2023

Objective

To investigate the clinical value of combining shear wave elastography (SWE) with the Volumetric Organ Computer‐Aided AnaLysis (VOCAL) technique and T2* magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to predict pre‐eclampsia (PE).

Methods

From December 2022 to March 2023, we recruited 31 pregnant women diagnosed with PE at our hospital as the observation group and 85 normal pregnant women as the control group. Differences in placental elasticity, vascularization index (VI), flow index (FI), vascularization flow index (VFI), and T2* MRI perfusion fraction (f) were compared between the two groups. Received operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic value of placental elasticity, VI, FI, VFI, f, and their combination for predicting PE.

Results

Placental elasticity was higher in the observation group than in the control group, while VI, FI, VFI, and f were lower in the observation group (all p < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) for placental elasticity, VI, FI, VFI, f, and their combination for predicting PE were 0.85, 0.77, 0.78, 0.84, 0.65, and 0.94, respectively. The sensitivity was 71%, 55%, 94%, 65%, 55%, and 81%. The specificity was 92%, 91%, 60%, 92%, 79%, and 98%. The combined prediction model had a higher AUC than the individual predictors (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

SWE combined with VOCAL technique and T2* MRI has high value for predicting PE and can provide reference information for clinical diagnosis.
Ear‐decompositions, minimally connected matroids and rigid graphs
Authors: Jordán Tibor
Published: October 2023

We prove that if the two‐dimensional rigidity matroid of a graph on at least seven vertices is connected, and is minimal with respect to this property, then has at most edges. This bound, which is best possible, extends Dirac's bound on the size of minimally 2‐connected graphs to dimension two. The bound also sharpens the general upper bound of Murty for the size of minimally connected matroids in the case when the matroid is a rigidity matroid of a graph. Our proofs rely on ear‐decompositions of connected matroids and on a new lower bound on the size of the largest circuit in a connected rigidity matroid, which may be of independent interest. We use these results to determine the tight upper bound on the number of edges in a minimally redundantly rigid graph in two dimensions. Furthermore, as an application of our proof methods, we give a new proof for Murty's theorem.
Feasibility of social network analysis to study outcomes of children with medical complexity
Authors: Coller Ryan J. , Green Harold D. , Kaminski Patrick C. , Howell Kristina , Alfaro Elena , Nelson Cassandra , Warner Gemma , Werner Nicole E.
Published: October 2023

Since most care for children with medical complexity (CMC) is delivered daily in communities by multiple caregiving individuals, that is, caregiving networks, tools to assess and intervene across these networks are needed. This study evaluated the feasibility of applying social network analysis (SNA) to describe caregiving networks. Because hospitalization is among the most frequently used outcomes for CMC, exploratory correlations between network characteristics and CMC hospital use were evaluated. Within 3 weeks, the goal network enrollment was achieved, and all feasibility measures were favorable. Network characteristics correlated with hospital use, that is, smaller, denser networks, with more closed‐loop communication correlated with fewer hospital days. Networks with more professional caregivers also correlated with fewer hospital days. SNA is a feasible tool to study CMC caregiving networks. Preliminary data support rigorous hypothesis testing using SNA methods. Network‐based interventions to improve CMC health may be an important future direction.
The risk assessment of uveitis after COVID‐19 diagnosis: A multicenter population‐based study
Authors: Hsia Ning‐Yi , Hsu Alan Y. , Wang Yu‐Hsun , Li Jing‐Xing , Chen Huan‐Sheng , Wei James Cheng‐Chung , Lin Chun‐Ju , Tsai Yi‐Yu
Published: October 2023

Reports on uveitis after COVID‐19 have been limited. Our objective was to examine the risk of uveitis among COVID‐19 patients. This was a retrospective cohort study based on the TriNetX platform. The exposure group was patients with positive laboratory test result for SARS‐CoV‐2 and the comparison group was those tested negative for COVID‐19 throughout the study period. The endpoint is the new diagnoses of uveitis. This study composed of 2 105 424 patients diagnosed with COVID‐19 (55.4% female; 62.5% white; mean age at index 40.7 years) and 2 105 424 patients (55.4% female; 62.4% white; mean age at index 40.7 years) who never had COVID‐19. There was significantly increased risk of new diagnosis of uveitis since the first month after diagnosis of COVID‐19 compared with matched controls (HR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.03–1.34) up to 24 months (HR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.09–1.22). Our findings strengthen those previously raised by case series with a larger and multicenter study. We found that uveitis was significantly associated with COVID‐19 infection. Our findings reiterate the need for careful investigation as well as increased awareness from ophthalmologists in considering the possibility of COVID‐19 in vulnerable patients with new presentation of uveitis.
Identification of a new polyomavirus in distinct human populations and tissues
Authors: Torres Carolina , Correa Rita M. , Picconi María A. , Buck Christopher B. , Mbayed Viviana A.
Published: October 2023

Several human polyomaviruses (HPyVs) have been described in the last 15 years. This work aimed to characterize a novel HPyV with cutaneous tropism. Swabs of healthy skin (forehead) of 75 immunocompetent individuals from Argentina were screened for HPyV through sequence amplification techniques. Publicly available metagenomic data sets were also analyzed. A previously unknown polyomavirus sequence was detected in two skin swab samples. A nearly identical sequence was detected in public data sets representing metagenomic surveys of human skin and feces. Further analyses showed that the new polyomavirus diverges from its nearest relative, human polyomavirus 6 (HPyV6), by 17.3%–17.7% (in nucleotides for the large T antigen), which meets criteria for a new species designation in the genus Deltapolyomavirus. The screening also revealed more distant HPyV6 relatives in macaque genital and chimpanzee fecal data sets. Since polyomaviruses are generally thought to cospeciate with mammalian hosts, the high degree of similarity to HPyV6 suggests the new polyomavirus species is human‐tropic. Therefore, a novel polyomavirus was identified and characterized from samples of distinct populations and tissues. We suggest the common name human polyomavirus 16 (HPyV16).
Characterization of hybrid organo‐silica monoliths for possible application in the gradient elution of peptides
Authors: Kosmáková Anna , Zajickova Zuzana , Urban Jiří
Published: October 2023

We characterized thermally polymerized organo‐silica hybrid monolithic capillaries to test their applicability in the gradient elution of peptides. We have used a single‐pot approach utilizing 3‐(methacryloyloxy)propyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS), ethylene dimethacrylate (EDMA), and n‐octadecyl methacrylate (ODM) as functional monomers. The organo‐silica monolith containing MPTMS and EDMA was compared with the stationary phase prepared by adding ODM to the original polymerization mixture. Column prepared using a three‐monomer system provided a lower accessible volume of flow‐through pores, a higher proportion of mesopores, and higher efficiency. We utilized isocratic and gradient elution data to predict peak widths in gradient elution. Both protocols provided comparable results and can be used for peptide peak width prediction. However, applying gradient elution data for peak width prediction seems simpler. Finally, we tested the effect of gradient time on achievable peak capacity in the gradient elution of peptides with a column prepared with a three‐monomer system providing a higher peak capacity. However, the performance of hybrid organo‐silica monolithic stationary phases in gradient elution of peptides must be improved compared to other monolithic stationary phases. The limiting factor is column efficiency in highly aqueous mobile phases, which needs to be focused on.
The interactions between patient preferences, expectancies, and stigma contribute to posttraumatic stress disorder treatment outcomes
Authors: Moring John C. , Peterson Alan L. , Straud Casey L. , Ortman Jordan , Mintz Jim , Young‐McCaughan Stacey , McGeary Cindy A. , McGeary Donald D. , Litz Brett T. , Macdonald Alexandra , Roache John D. , Resick Patricia A. , for the STRONG STAR Consortium
Published: October 2023

Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is an effective treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); however, some patients do not improve to the same extent as others. It is important to understand potential factors that can be modified for better patient outcomes. This clinical trial implemented a three‐arm, equipoise‐stratified randomization design to allow for the accommodation of patient preference before randomization to one of three CPT treatment modalities: in‐home, in‐office, or telehealth. This study examined whether satisfaction with the modality, perceived stigma, expectations of therapy, and credibility of the therapist differed between modalities and whether these factors impacted treatment outcomes. We hypothesized that the contributions of these variables would depend upon whether participants opted out of any treatment arms and that these factors would predict treatment outcomes. Participants who endorsed less perceived stigma demonstrated larger reductions in PTSD symptom severity than those with similar levels of perceived stigma in the telehealth and in‐office conditions, η2 = .12–.18. Participants who endorsed lower satisfaction with their treatment modality and were assigned to the in‐home condition experienced larger PTSD symptom reductions than those with similar dissatisfaction in the telehealth and in‐office conditions, η2 = .20. The results show the robustness of evidence‐based therapies for PTSD given that dissatisfaction did not impede treatment success. In addition, they demonstrate that it is important for clinicians to address stigma before initiating evidence‐based therapies for PTSD. Strategies to address these factors are discussed.
Fe‐modified biochar improved the stability of soil aggregates and organic carbon: Evidence from enzymatic activity and microbial composition
Authors: Chen Mengmeng , Wu Lipeng , Ding Xiaodong , Liu Lu , Li Yuyi , Fei Chao , Zhang Shirong
Published: October 2023

Biochar modifications are used to improve soil organic carbon (SOC) content, while its effects on soil structure stability and carbon (C) mineralization are less known especially in saline–alkaline soils. A 5 years field experiment was arranged with organic amendments addition in the Yellow River Delta, including (i) NPK, only 255, 56, and 190 kg ha−1 N, P, and K each year, (ii) RS, NPK + rice straw, (iii) BC, NPK + straw‐derived biochar, and (iv) FeBC, NPK + biochar modified with ferric chloride. Relative to NPK treatment, the mean weight diameter was significantly increased with organic amendments addition, which was the highest in FeBC treatment. Meanwhile, SOC content in the soil added with organic amendment was increased by 2%–18%. Compared with the RS and BC, FeBC addition increased the content of stable humin (HU), crystalline Fe oxides (Fed), and amorphous Fe oxides (Feo). There was a positive correlation between HU and Feo/Fed, indicating HU and Fe oxides might form organic mineral complexes to limit SOC biodegradation. While the mineralization rate of SOC in FeBC treatment was decreased by more than 30.4% than that in BC treatment. This might be due to the decrease of soil β‐glucosidase and cellobiohydrolase activities, as well as the abundance of Gammaproteobacteria and Actinobacteria. These results were the mechanism of soil enzyme activity and bacterial community regulating C stability. Therefore, Fe‐modified biochar is a better organic amendment to improve the stability of aggregates structure and SOC in saline–alkaline paddy soil.
A descriptive analysis of spontaneous reports of antipsychotic‐induced tardive dyskinesia and other extrapyramidal symptoms in the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report database
Authors: Saga Yosuke , Chiang Chih‐Lin , Wakamatsu Akihide
Published: October 2023

AimThe aim of this study is to summarize the spontaneous reports of tardive dyskinesia (TD) and extrapyramidal symptoms (EPSs) that occurred in Japan over the past decade.

MethodsThe study analyzed TD and EPS cases reported in the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report database between April 2011 and March 2021. The cases were stratified by the diagnoses of schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and depressive disorders.

ResultsIn total, 800 patients including a total of 171 TD cases and 682 EPS cases were reported in the JADER database across psychiatric diagnosis. The cases were caused by first‐generation antipsychotics (FGA, TD: n = 105, EPS: n = 245) and second‐generation antipsychotics (SGA, TD: n = 144, EPS: n = 598). The SGA were categorized based on Neuroscience‐based Nomenclature (NbN) regarding pharmacological domain and mode of action, which were reported evenly as the offending agents. Among reported treatment and outcome in TD cases (n = 67, 37.6%) and EPS cases (n = 405, 59.3%), the relatively limited number of TD cases were reported as recovered/improved was also limited (n = 32, 47.8%) compared to those of EPS cases (n = 266, 65.7%). Some cases still had residual symptoms or did not recover fully (TD: n = 21, 31.3%, EPS: n = 77, 19.0%).

Conclusion

Tardive dyskinesia and EPS have been widely reported in Japan over the past decade across psychiatric diagnoses and antipsychotic classes.

Limitations

It is important to acknowledge the presence of reporting bias and the lack of comparators to accurately assess risks. Owing to the nature of spontaneous reporting, the estimation of prevalence is not feasible.
Intravenous iron for critically ill children. Comparison of three dose regimens
Authors: Butragueño‐Laiseca Laura , de la Mata Navazo Sara , Sánchez Galindo Amelia Caridad , Santiago Lozano María José
Published: October 2023

Background

Anemia is extremely common among patients admitted to pediatric intensive care. Alternative treatments to transfusions such as intravenous iron must be considered. There are no published data for a prospective intravenous (IV) iron study focused in the critically ill children. The objective is to examine the safety and efficacy of intravenous iron sucrose infusion to manage anemia in pediatric critical care. A secondary objective is to examine the effect of different dose regimens of iron sucrose (3, 5, and 7 mg/kg dose).

Procedure

Prospective investigation of intravenous iron sucrose utilization at a tertiary pediatric intensive care unit between October 2017 and November 2022.

Results

In all 115 patients received a total of 616 infusions of IV iron. Transferrin saturation index (TSI) was the most common altered iron deficiency biomarker (91.8%). After IV iron treatment, hemoglobin showed a significant increase within a 30‐day follow‐up (9.2 vs. 11.6 g/dL, p < .001). There was also a significant improvement in TSI and serum iron (p < .001). Iron deficit replacement was higher in the 7 mg/kg dose group (94%) compared to 85.9% in the 5 mg/kg regimen and 77.5% in the lower dose group (p = .008), requiring less doses and a shorter time. Very few mild adverse reactions were reported (1.3% of infusions), with no differences between groups. The most frequent adverse effect was gastrointestinal in three cases. There were no anaphylaxis‐like or other serious/life‐threatening adverse effects.

Conclusions

This is the first study to evaluate intravenous iron therapy in pediatric critical care, providing preliminary evidence of safety and efficacy of IV iron sucrose. The 7 mg/kg dose regimen showed higher iron deficit replacement in a shorter time, which could be beneficial in critically ill children.
The halotolerant rizhobacterium Glutamicibacter sp. alleviates salt impact on Phragmites australis by producing exopolysaccharides and limiting plant sodium uptake
Authors: Hidri Rabaa , Metoui‐Ben Mahmoud Ouissal , Zorrig Walid , Azcon Rozario , Abdelly Chedly , Debez Ahmed
Published: October 2023

Salinity is a widespread abiotic stress, which has strong adverse effects on plant growth and crop productivity. Exopolysaccharides (EPS) play a crucial role in plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR)‐mediated improvement of plant stress tolerance. This study aimed to assess whether Glutamicibacter sp. strain producing large amounts of EPS may promote tolerance of common reed, Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud., towards salt stress. This halotolerant rizhobacterium showed tolerance to salinity (up to 1 M NaCl) when cultivated on Luria‐Bertani (LB) medium. Exposure to high salinity (300 mM NaCl) significantly impacted the plant growth parameters, but this adverse effect was mitigated following inoculation with Glutamicibacter sp., which triggered higher number of leaves and tillers, shoot fresh weight/dry weight, and root fresh weight as compared to non‐inoculated plants. Salt stress increased the accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), polyphenols, total soluble sugars (TSSs), and free proline in shoots. In comparison, the inoculation with Glutamicibacter sp. further increased shoot polyphenol content, while decreasing MDA and free proline contents. Besides, this bacterial strain increased tissue Ca+ and K+ content concomitant to lower shoot Na+ and root Cl− accumulation, thus further highlighting the beneficial effect of Glutamicibacter sp. strain on the plant behavior under salinity. As a whole, our study provides strong arguments for a potential utilization of EPS‐producing bacteria as a useful microbial inoculant to alleviate the deleterious effects of salinity on plants.
Proteomics analysis of C2C12 myotubes treated with atrophy inducing cancer cell‐derived factors
Authors: Marzan Akbar L. , Chitti Sai V. , Gummadi Sriram , Kang Taeyoung , Ang Ching‐Seng , Mathivanan Suresh
Published: October 2023

Cancer‐associated cachexia is a wasting syndrome that results in dramatic loss of whole‐body weight, predominantly due to loss of skeletal muscle mass. It has been established that cachexia inducing cancer cells secrete proteins and extracellular vesicles (EVs) that can induce muscle atrophy. Though several studies examined these cancer‐cell derived factors, targeting some of these components have shown little or no clinical benefit. To develop new therapies, understanding of the dysregulated proteins and signaling pathways that regulate catabolic gene expression during muscle wasting is essential. Here, we sought to examine the effect of conditioned media (CM) that contain secreted factors and EVs from cachexia inducing C26 colon cancer cells on C2C12 myotubes using mass spectrometry‐based label‐free quantitative proteomics. We identified significant changes in the protein profile of C2C12 cells upon exposure to C26‐derived CM. Functional enrichment analysis revealed enrichment of proteins associated with inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, muscle catabolism, ROS production, and ER stress in CM treated myotubes. Furthermore, strong downregulation in muscle structural integrity and development and/or regenerative pathways were observed. Together, these enriched proteins in atrophied muscle could be utilized as potential muscle wasting markers and the dysregulated biological processes could be employed for therapeutic benefit in cancer‐induced muscle wasting.
Trajectories of psychosocial environmental factors and their associations with asthma symptom trajectories among children in Australia
Authors: Shahunja K. M. , Sly Peter D. , Mamun Abdullah
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Several psychosocial factors, such as maternal mental health and parents' financial hardship, are associated with asthma symptoms among children. So, we aim to investigate the changing patterns of important psychosocial environmental factors and their associations with asthma symptom trajectories among children in Australia.

Methods

We considered asthma symptoms as wheezing (outcome) and psychosocial environmental factors (exposures) from 0/1 year to 14/15 years of the participants from the “Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC)” for this study. We used group‐based trajectory modeling to identify the trajectory groups for both exposure and outcome variables. Associations between psychosocial factors and three distinct asthma symptom trajectories were assessed by multivariable logistic regression.

Results

We included 3917 children from the LSAC birth cohort in our study. We identified distinct trajectories for maternal depression, parents' financial hardship, parents' stressful life events and parents' availability to their children from birth to 14/15 years of age. Compared to the “low/no” asthma symptom trajectory group, children exposed to a “moderate & increasing” maternal depression, “moderate & declining” parents' financial hardship, and “moderate & increasing” parents' stressful life events were significantly associated (relative risk ratio [RRR]: 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27, 1.91; RRR: 1.40, 95%; CI: 1.15, 1.70; RRR: 1.77, 95%; CI: 1.45, 2.16) with “persistent high” asthma symptom trajectory.

Conclusion

Several psychosocial factors that are potential stressors for mental health increase the risk of having an adverse asthma symptom trajectory during childhood. Further attention should be given to reducing exposure to maternal depression, parents' financial hardship, and parents' stressful live events for long‐term asthma control in children.
A CUSUM control chart for gamma distribution with guaranteed performance
Authors: Madrid‐Alvarez Harold Manuel , García‐Díaz Juan Carlos , Tercero‐Gómez Víctor G.
Published: October 2023

Even though most control chart developments have revolved around the normal distribution, productive operations, in fact, often use non‐normal data, and some even use skewed distributions. This occurs with cycle times and many processes with a single specification limit. Under these conditions, gamma distributions often offer a better characterization where CUSUM schemes provide optimal performance to detect changes of a known in‐control (IC) parameter. In practice, gamma parameters have to be estimated, and limited phase I samples have undesirable effects on the phase II average run length (ARL) that has not been examined. To address this situation, this study uses Markovian models to assess the ARL of a CUSUM developed to monitor scale changes when IC parameters are estimated. This paper discusses the conditional ARL performance and proposes an adaptation of a stochastic estimation algorithm to guarantee a minimum performance. IC and out‐of‐control performance is compared with the conditional performance of a traditional approach where no corrections are made to guarantee a specific behavior. To demonstrate the practical application of this new approach, an implementation was made in a packaging process using multihead weighing machines. Practitioners interested in using reliable monitoring schemes will find, in this proposal, several implementation guidelines such as algorithms and look up tables to facilitate their implementations.
Fixed‐time adaptive neural tracking control for nonlinear multiagent systems with communication link faults
Authors: He Cheng , Qi Ruiyun , Jiang Bin
Published: October 2023

This paper addresses the fixed‐time adaptive neural distributed control problem of uncertain nonlinear multiagent systems (MASs) with unknown communication link faults. To handle the unknown terms caused by communication link faults and the unknown functions in each agent, a radial basis function neural network (RBF NN) is employed. In contrast to existing methods that focus solely on practical finite‐/ fixed‐time stability of nonlinear systems, the control scheme developed in this paper goes beyond by not only mitigating the effects of unknown communication link faults in nonlinear MASs but also addressing the singularity problem of fixed‐time controllers. These advancements are realized through the design of new power exponent functions and the introduction of new lemmas. This way, the tracking error of MASs converges to a preset range within a fixed time and achieves better control performance. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed scheme is verified through two simulations.