bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and evaluation of fish eDNA metabarcoding assays facilitate the detection of cryptic seahorse taxa (family: Syngnathidae)
Authors: Nester Georgia M. , De Brauwer Maarten , Koziol Adam , West Katrina M. , DiBattista Joseph D. , White Nicole E. , Power Matthew , Heydenrych Matthew J. , Harvey Euan , Bunce Michael
Published: June 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding methods have demonstrated their potential as noninvasive techniques for the monitoring and conservation of marine fishes, including rare and endangered taxa. However, the majority of these investigations have focused on large‐bodied taxa such as sharks and sturgeons. In contrast, eDNA studies on small‐bodied cryptic taxa are much less common. As a case in point, seahorses (members of the Syngnathidae family) have never been detected by eDNA, despite the fact that globally there are 14 species classified as “Threatened” by the IUCN. Here, we critically evaluate the ability of two existing broad‐spectrum fish metabarcoding assays (MiFish and 16S Fish) and explore the efficacy of two newly designed fish metabarcoding assays (16S_FishSyn_Short and 16S_FishSyn_Long) to detect Syngnathidae amidst a wide spectrum of fish species. Furthermore, a custom Western Australian 16S rRNA fish database was created to increase the likelihood of correct taxonomic assignments. With the newly designed assays, we detected four Syngnathidae species in a targeted eDNA survey of the Perth metropolitan area (Western Australia). These detections include the seahorse species Hippocampus subelongatus and Hippocampus breviceps, which represents the first time seahorse species have been detected using eDNA. The existing MiFish and 16S Fish assays did not detect any Syngnathidae. This evaluation of all four fish metabarcoding assays reinforces the view that every PCR assay has “blind spots”. In the context of complex environmental samples, no assay is universal and false negatives will occur due to a combination of PCR efficacy, primer binding, assay sensitivity, degeneracies in the primers, template competition, and amplicon length. Taken together, these data indicate that eDNA methodologies, with ongoing optimizations, will become an integral part of monitoring small‐bodied cryptic taxa such as seahorses, gobies, and blennies and can assist in mapping species’ distributions and prioritizing conservation areas.
Toward the Design of High‐performance Supercapacitors by Prussian Blue, its Analogues and their Derivatives
Authors: Lin Yueqiang , Zhang Longhai , Xiong Ya , Wei Tong , Fan Zhuangjun
Published: June 2020

Supercapacitors (SCs) with high power output have attracted increasing attention as efficient and environmentally friendly energy storage devices. Prussian blue and its analogues (PB/PBAs) are simple coordination polymers with tunable chemical compositions and open framework. Prussian blue can act as electrode materials in its pristine form and has also been utilized to derive various metallic nanostructures for electrochemical applications due to their simple fabrication process, non‐toxic characteristics, and low price. Here, we firstly describe the charge storage mechanisms of SCs briefly followed by an introduction of the fabrication methods of PB/PBAs and their derivatives. Then, a comprehensive review on recent studies of the use of PB/PBAs and their derivatives as the electrode materials for SCs are given with a focus on strategies to improve their electrochemical performances. Finally, we discuss critical challenges in this research area and propose some general ideas for future research.
The three‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in distinguishing between ischaemic and non‐ischaemic aetiology of heart failure
Authors: Vachalcova Marianna , Valočik Gabriel , Kurečko Marián , Grapsa Julia , Taha Viktória Ali , Michalek Peter , Jankajová Monika , Sabol František , Kubikova Lucia , Orban Marek , Uher Tomas , Böhm Allan
Published: June 2020

Aims

The aim of this pilot study was to compare selected three‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (3D STE) parameters in patients with ischaemic and non‐ischaemic aetiology of heart failure (HF) and to identify indices that can differentiate the two pathologies.

Methods and results

Forty patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% were included to the study: 20 patients (age 63 ± 9.0 years, LVEF 29.0 ± 11.3%) with ischaemic cardiomyopathy and 20 patients (age 64.0 ± 11.0 years, LVEF 27.3 ± 7.5%) with non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy. All patients underwent two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) transthoracic echocardiography. Standard echocardiographic parameters, global longitudinal strain, and rotational parameters of left ventricle (LV) were assessed using 3D speckle tracking (3D STE). There were no differences in standard and STE parameters between the two groups. Among rotational parameters, the LV apical rotation (4.9 ± 3.5° vs. 2.3 ± 2.4°, P = 0.0022) was significantly higher in patients with ischaemic HF. Among all echocardiographic parameters, a cut‐off value of 3.28° (area under the curve 0.78; 95% confidence interval, 0.62 to 0.93) was able to distinguish the ischaemic and non‐ischaemic aetiology of HF with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 75%.

Conclusions

This is the first study that compares 3D STE parameters between patients with ischaemic and non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy. It was proved that the apical rotation was significantly higher in patients with ischaemic cardiomyopathy. Our findings suggest that 3D STE might be useful in non‐invasive differentiation between ischaemic and non‐ischaemic aetiology of HF.
Halogenation of Electron‐Deficient Vicinal Substituted Alkenes: Regio‐ and Stereoselectivity
Authors: Zubkov Ilya N. , Ushakov Igor A. , Chipanina Nina N. , Rulev Alexander Yu.
Published: June 2020

The halogenation of electron‐deficient vicinal substituted alkenes leads mainly to the mixture of regio‐ and stereoisomers of monohalogenated derivatives. Their ratio depends on the stability of the intermediate anionic complex and is determined by properties of both electron‐withdrawing groups.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Reductive Esterification Using Carbon Monoxide as a Reducing Agent
Authors: Ostrovskii Vladimir S. , Runikhina Sofiya A. , Afanasyev Oleg I. , Chusov Denis
Published: June 2020

Carbon monoxide used to have a limited number of applications in organic chemistry, but it gradually increases its role as a mild and selective reducing agent. It can be applied for the carbon–heteroatom single bond formation via the reductive addition of hydrogen‐containing nucleophiles to carbonyl compounds. In this paper, rhodium‐catalyzed reductive esterification is described, and a comparative study of the rhodium and ruthenium catalysis in the reductive addition reactions is provided. Rhodium performs better on highly nucleophilic substrates and ruthenium is better for compounds with less nucleophilicity.
Trading protocols and price discovery: Implicit transaction costs in Indian single stock futures
Authors: Curran Edward , Hunt Jack , Mollica Vito
Published: June 2020

We show how trading protocols impede the price discovery process in single stock futures as implicit trade costs outweigh explicit costs. Despite the trade volume dominance, trade costs advantage and leverage efficiency in futures markets, single stock futures account for only 35% of the price discovery vis‐á‐vis the spot market. Futures market's informational efficiency is adversely affected by market frictions in the form of marketwide position limits, minimum contract values, and margin requirements.
A simple method for extracting the probability of default from American put option prices
Authors: Chang Bo Young , Orosi Greg
Published: June 2020

We present a novel method for extracting the risk‐neutral probability of default (PD) of a firm from American put option prices. Building on the idea of a default corridor proposed by Carr and Wu, we derive a parsimonious closed‐form formula for American put option prices from which the PD can be inferred. The method is easy to implement. Our empirical results based on seven large US firms for the period 2002–2010 show that, in some cases, our option‐implied PD can provide a more accurate estimate of default probability than the estimates implied from credit default swaps.
Prospective longitudinal evaluation of cytokines in mild cognitive impairment due to AD and Lewy body disease
Authors: Thomas Alan J. , Hamilton Calum A. , Donaghy Paul C. , Martin‐Ruiz Carmen , Morris Chris M. , Barnett Nicola , Olsen Kirsty , Taylor John‐Paul , O'Brien John T.
Published: June 2020

Objectives

We conducted a prospective longitudinal study of plasma cytokines during the Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) stage of Lewy body disease and Alzheimer's disease, hypothesizing that cytokine levels would decrease over time and that this would be correlated with decline in cognition.

Methods

Older (≥60) people with MCI were recruited from memory services in healthcare trusts in North East England, UK. MCI was diagnosed as due to Alzheimer's disease (MCI‐AD) or Lewy body disease (MCI‐LB). Baseline and repeat annual clinical and cognitive assessments were undertaken and plasma samples were obtained at the same time. Cytokine assays were performed on all samples using the Meso Scale Discovery V‐Plex Plus Proinflammatory Panel 1, which included IFNγ, IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐12p70, IL‐13 and TNFα.

Results

Fifty‐six patients (21 MCI‐AD, 35 MCI‐LB) completed prospective evaluations and provided samples up to 3 years after baseline. Six cytokines (IFNγ, IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐6 and IL‐10) showed highly significant (P < .002) decreases over time. AD and LB did not differ in rate of decrease nor were there any effects related to age or general morbidity. Decrease in five of these cytokines (IFNγ, IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐4, and IL‐10) was highly correlated with decrease in cognition (P < .003).

Conclusions

Peripheral inflammation decreased in both disease groups during MCI suggesting this may be a therapeutic window for future anti‐inflammatory agents.
Evaluation of lymph node ratio and lymph node yield as prognosticators of locoregional recurrence in p16‐associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Nurimba Margaret , Hines William , Sinha Uttam , Mathew Anna , Kokot Niels , Swanson Mark
Published: June 2020

Background

The prognostic value of lymph node yield (LNY) and lymph node ratio (LNR), or the ratio of number of metastatic LNs to total number dissected, has not been well established in p16‐associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study evaluated locoregional disease‐free survival (LRDFS) in 82 patients with p16+ OPSCC who underwent neck dissection at a single institution from 2009 to 2017. LNR and LNY cutoffs were estimated using time‐dependent receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves. Prognostic significance of these cutoffs was compared with Eighth Edition AJCC Nodal Staging.

Results

An increased LNR ≥ 0.129 was associated with worse 2‐year LRDFS (66.9% vs 96.8%, P = .005). LNY was not significantly associated with LRDFS (P = .304). An LNR‐based risk model was a better prognosticator than Eighth Edition AJCC Nodal Staging (Harrell's C, 0.9065 vs 0.7668).

Conclusions

LNR has good prognostic utility in predicting LRDFS in p16+ OPSCC, but further evaluation of this measure is warranted.
Added value of metastatic cervical lymph node group V in nodal staging of nasopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Setakornnukul Jiraporn , Thephamongkhol Kullathorn , Chaysiri Panid
Published: June 2020

Background

Prognostic significance of posterior cervical lymph node metastasis in nasopharyngeal cancer is largely unknown. This study aims to determine the added prognostic significance of cervical lymph node group V to the standard American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system (eighth edition AJCC) of nasopharyngeal patients with cancer treated with intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in terms of overall survival (OS), distant metastatic‐free survival (DMFS), and disease‐free survival (DFS).

Methods and Materials

A retrospective cohort of 199 consecutively diagnosed nasopharyngeal patients with cancer treated with definitive radiotherapy (RT) or concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in the era of IMRT in a large university hospital in endemic area of Southeast Asia. Pre‐treatment imaging studies were thoroughly re‐evaluated and re‐staged by a board‐certified radiologist using radiographic criteria for cervical lymph node metastasis. T and N classifications were reclassified according to the eighth AJCC staging system. Group V (Va and Vb) cervical node was evaluated for its added prognostic significance. Cox's proportional hazard model was used to retrieve hazard ratio (HR), 95% confidence interval and P value for N classification. Harrell's C‐statistic (concordance index) was used for test of discrimination and internal validation was calculated by bootstrap method.

Results

This study demonstrated greater separation of OS with HR of 6.75 (95%CI 1.94‐23.51, P = .003) by using group Vb only as N3 compared to HR of 4.70 (95%CI 1.37‐16.13, P = .014) by using current standard N3 disease (groups IV and Vb). Similarly, N2 with presence of Va shows worsened DFS with HR of 8.70 (95%CI 1.08‐69.67, P = .042) compared to N2 without Va with HR of 5.93 (95%CI 0.76‐46.00, P = .089). After incorporating cervical group V into nodal staging, the HR and 95%CI among each group was better separated than the eighth AJCC staging system but without significant improvement in C‐index.

Conclusion

Cervical lymph node group V is a potentially added prognostic factor to standard TNM staging.
Crafting job demands and employee creativity: A diary study
Authors: Sun Shuhua , Wang Nan , Zhu Jinlong , Song Zhaoli
Published: June 2020

People are more creative on some days than others. Studying how individuals generate creative ideas from day to day could contribute to knowledge regarding the causes of such within‐person variations and have practical implications for improving employee creativity across time. By adopting a dynamic resource allocation perspective and a repeated‐measure diary design, we developed and examined a theoretical model focusing on the within‐person processes of employee creativity. Specifically, we hypothesized that momentary role‐breadth self‐efficacy predicts daily changes in increasing job challenges, which, in turn, predicts daily changes in employee creativity, and that the latter relationship is accentuated by decreasing hindering demands. Results, based on 818 pairs of matched morning–afternoon observations from 91 employees over 10 workdays, provided support for our predictions. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these results for improving employee daily creativity.
Real‐world outcomes of advanced melanoma patients not represented in phase III trials
Authors: van Zeijl Michiel C. T. , Ismail Rawa K. , de Wreede Liesbeth C. , van den Eertwegh Alfonsus J. M. , de Boer Anthonius , van Dartel Maaike , Hilarius Doranne L. , Aarts Maureen J. B. , van den Berkmortel Franchette W. P. J. , Boers‐Sonderen Marye J. , de Groot Jan‐Willem B. , Hospers Geke A. P. , Kapiteijn Ellen , Piersma Djura , van Rijn Rozemarijn S. , Suijkerbuijk Karijn P. M. , ten Tije Albert J. , van der Veldt Astrid A. M. , Vreugdenhil Gerard , Haanen John B. A. G. , Wouters Michel W. J. M
Published: June 2020

The aim was to provide evidence on systemically treated patients with advanced melanoma not represented in phase III trials to support clinical decision‐making. Analysis were performed on advanced melanoma patients diagnosed between 2014 and 2017 in the Netherlands, treated with immune‐ or targeted therapy, who met ≥1 trial exclusion criteria. These criteria were derived from the KEYNOTE‐006 and CHECKMATE‐067/‐066 phase III trials. Prognostic importance of factors associated with overall survival (OS) was assessed with the Kaplan‐Meier method, Cox models, predicted OS probabilities of prognostic subgroups and a conditional inference survival tree (CIST). A nationwide population‐based registry was used as data source. Of 2536 systemically treated patients with advanced melanoma, 1004 (40%) patients were ineligible for phase IIII trials. Ineligible patients had a poorer median OS (mOS) compared to eligible patients (8.8 vs 23 months). Eligibility criteria strongly associated with OS in systemically treated ineligible patients were Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Score (ECOG PS) ≥2, brain metastases (BM) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) of >500 U/L. Patients with ECOG PS of ≥2 with or without symptomatic BM had a predicted mOS of 6.5 and 11.3 months and a 3‐year survival probability of 9.3% and 23.6%, respectively. The CIST showed the strongest prognostic covariate for survival was LDH, followed by ECOG PS. The prognosis of patients with LDH of >500 U/L is poor, but long‐term survival is possible. The prognosis of ineligible patients with advanced melanoma in real‐world was very heterogeneous and highly dependent on LDH value, ECOG PS and symptomatic BM.
Challenges in RNA Regulation in Huntington's Disease: Insights from Computational Studies
Authors: Palomino‐Hernandez Oscar , Margreiter Michael A. , Rossetti Giulia
Published: June 2020

Novel therapeutic approaches are being developed to tackle neurodegenerative diseases, due to the lack of efficiency of the known druggable targets. For Huntington's disease, a promising approach is the regulation of the RNA product. This target would allow for a selective and effective inhibition of the toxic effects exerted by the final nucleic product and the coded protein. In this review, the current state of the art of RNA regulation is discussed, with a brief but insightful view on novel plausible targets. After this, an emphasis on successful computational and experimental approaches tailored in modeling and regulating RNA aberrant behavior are extensively presented. Finally, the application and limitations of current computational methods are discussed, and possible avenues for improvement are outlined.
Testicular sperm extraction in a patient with ejaculatory dysfunction after combined androgen blockade therapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Amano Toshiyasu , Suzuki Chihiro , Shimojima Yuji , Imao Tetsuya , Earle Carolyn
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Prostate cancer is the most prevalent urological cancer for older men. However, there is still a possibility that a few prostate cancer patients may still wish to have children.

Case presentation

A 49‐year‐old male was diagnosed with low‐risk prostate cancer. Combined anti‐androgen blockade therapy was performed for 8 months prior to radiation therapy. However, he suffered from ejaculatory dysfunction and wished to conceive with his partner. Hormonal therapy was discontinued and he was referred to our clinic for sperm preservation. His ejaculatory function did not recover after 4 months discontinuation of hormonal therapy, subsequently micro‐testicular sperm extraction for sperm preservation was successfully performed.

Conclusion

Sperm preservation in patients with prostate cancer is unusual but it should be considered if the patient’s fertility is an issue.
Structural and electronic properties of defective 2D transition metal dichalcogenide heterostructures
Authors: Pecoraro Adriana , Schiavo Eduardo , Maddalena Pasqualino , Muñoz‐García Ana B. , Pavone Michele
Published: June 2020

We present a first‐principles study on the structure‐property relationships in MoS2 and WS2 monolayers and their vertically stacked hetero‐bilayer, with and without Sulfur vacancies, in order to dissect the electronic features behind their photocatalytic water splitting capabilities. We also benchmark the accuracy of three different exchange‐correlation density functionals for both minimum‐energy geometries and electronic structure. The best compromise between computational cost and qualitative accuracy is achieved with the HSE06 density functional on top of Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof minima, including dispersion with Grimme's D3 scheme. This computational approach predicts the presence of mid‐gap states for defective monolayers, in accordance with the present literature. For the heterojunction, we find unexpected vacancy‐position dependent electronic features: the location of the defects leads either to mid‐gap trap states, detrimental for photocatalyst or to a modification of characteristic type II band alignment behavior, responsible for interlayer charge separation and low recombination rates.
Vaccine development and therapeutic design for 2019‐nCoV/SARS‐CoV‐2: Challenges and chances
Authors: Ghaebi Mahnaz , Osali Abdolreza , Valizadeh Hamed , Roshangar Leila , Ahmadi Majid
Published: June 2020

The ongoing outbreak of the recently emerged 2019 novel coronavirus (nCoV), which has seriously threatened global health security, is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) with high morbidity and mortality. Despite the burden of the disease worldwide, still, no licensed vaccine or any specific drug against 2019‐nCoV is available. Data from several countries show that few repurposed drugs using existing antiviral drugs have not (so far) been satisfactory and more recently were proven to be even highly toxic. These findings underline an urgent need for preventative and therapeutic interventions designed to target specific aspects of 2019‐nCoV. Again the major factor in this urgency is that the process of data acquisition by physical experiment is time‐consuming and expensive to obtain. Scientific simulations and more in‐depth data analysis permit to validate or refute drug repurposing opportunities predicted via target similarity profiling to speed up the development of a new more effective anti‐2019‐nCoV therapy especially where in vitro and/or in vivo data are not yet available. In addition, several research programs are being developed, aiming at the exploration of vaccines to prevent and treat the 2019‐nCoV. Computational‐based technology has given us the tools to explore and identify potentially effective drug and/or vaccine candidates which can effectively shorten the time and reduce the operating cost. The aim of the present review is to address the available information on molecular determinants in disease pathobiology modules and define the computational approaches employed in systematic drug repositioning and vaccine development settings for SARS‐CoV‐2.
Asprosin promotes β‐cell apoptosis by inhibiting the autophagy of β‐cell via AMPK‐mTOR pathway
Authors: Wang Rui , Hu Wenchao
Published: June 2020

Asprosin is a newly discovered adipokine. A recent study showed that asprosin promoted the β‐cell apoptosis of MIN6 cells. This study aims to determine whether asprosin induces the apoptosis in β‐cell via regulating autophagy. Mouse insulinoma MIN6 cells were divided into the following four groups: control, vehicle, high glucose, and asprosin groups. MIN6 cells in the asprosin group were transfected with recombinant asprosin‐T2A‐GFP vector. MIN6 cells in the vehicle group were transfected with vector only. Then the apoptosis of MIN6 cells was detected using flow cytometry. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were used to determine the expression of caspase 3, LC3‐I, LC3‐II, beclin 1, P62, AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK), and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). AMPK pathway was enhanced using AMPK agonist AICAR. High glucose and asprosin induced the apoptosis of MIN6 cells and elevated expression of caspase 3. In addition, high glucose and asprosin resulted in reduced expression of LC3‐II/LC3‐I, beclin 1, and increased expression of P62. p‐AMPK expression was decreased and p‐mTOR expression was increased after high glucose and asprosin treatment. AMPK agonist AICAR was used to activate the AMPK pathway. Treatment with AICAR significantly partly restored decreased autophagy and increased apoptosis of β‐cell, which was induced by asprosin. Asprosin promotes the apoptosis of β‐cell by inhibiting the autophagy of β‐cell via AMPK‐mTOR pathway.
A Comprehensive Review of Tocilizumab in COVID‐19 Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Khiali Sajad , Khani Elnaz , Entezari‐Maleki Taher
Published: June 2020

Currently, the world is facing the pandemic of a novel strain of beta‐coronavirus known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the most devastating complication of SARS‐CoV‐2. It was indicated that cytokine‐release syndrome and dominantly interleukin (IL)‐6 play a central role in the pathophysiology of ARDS related to the novel 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID‐19). Despite the global emergency of the disease, at this time, there are no proven therapies for the management of the disease. Tocilizumab is a potential recombinant monoclonal antibody against IL‐6 and currently is under investigation for the management of ARDS in patients with COVID‐19. Given these points, we reviewed the current evidence regarding the potential therapeutic role of tocilizumab and its important clinical issues in the treatment of ARDS related to COVID‐19.
Subtypes of physical frailty and their long‐term outcomes: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Huang Shih‐Tsung , Tange Chikako , Otsuka Rei , Nishita Yukiko , Peng Li‐Ning , Hsiao Fei‐Yuan , Tomida Makiko , Shimokata Hiroshi , Arai Hidenori , Chen Liang‐Kung
Published: June 2020

Background

Components of physical frailty cluster into subtypes, but it remains unknown how these might be associated with age‐related functional declines and multimorbidities. This study aims to investigated associations of physical frailty subtypes with functional declines and multimorbidity in a 10 year longitudinal cohort survey.

Methods

Complementary longitudinal cohort study used group‐based multitrajectory modelling to verify whether frailty subtypes discovered in Taiwan are presented in another aging cohort, then investigated associations of these subtypes with cognitive decline and multimorbidity. Participants aged ≥50 years were recruited from the third to sixth waves (May 2002 to July 2010) of the National Institute for Longevity Sciences‐Longitudinal Study of Aging, in Japan. People with incomplete data, pre‐frail/frail status before their index wave, and those with incomplete data or who died during follow‐up, were excluded. Group‐based trajectory analysis denoted five established physical frailty criteria as time‐varying binary variables in each wave during follow‐up. Incident frailty was classified as mobility subtype (weakness/slowness), non‐mobility subtype (weight loss/exhaustion), or low physical activity subtype. General linear modelling investigated associations of these frailty subtypes with activities of daily living, digit symbol substitution test (DSST) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) at 2 year follow‐up.

Results

We identified four longitudinal trajectories of physical frailty, which corroborated the distinct subtypes we discovered previously. Among 940 eligible participants, 38.0% were robust, 18.4% had mobility subtype frailty, 20.7% non‐mobility subtype, and 20.1% low physical activity subtype. People with mobility subtype frailty were older than those with other frailty subtypes or robust status and had higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and heart failure. In the multivariable‐adjusted general linear models, mobility‐subtype frailty was associated with a significantly lower DSST score (point estimate −2.28, P = 0.03) and higher CCI (point estimate 0.82, P < 0.01) than the other groups.

Conclusions

Mobility‐subtype frailty was associated with functional declines and progression of multimorbidity; the long‐term effects of physical frailty subtypes deserve further investigation.
COMMD8 changes expression during initial phase of wasp venom immunotherapy
Authors: Kempiński Karol , Romantowski Jan , Maciejewska Agnieszka , Pawłowski Ryszard , Chełmińska Marta , Jassem Ewa , Niedoszytko Marek
Published: June 2020

Background

Hymenoptera venom allergy (HVA) is of great concern because of the possibility of anaphylaxis, which may be fatal. Venom immunotherapy (VIT) is the only disease‐modifying treatment in HVA and, although efficient, its mechanism remains partially unknown. Gene expression analysis may be helpful for establishing a proper model of tolerance induction during the build‐up phase of VIT. The present study aimed to analyze how the start of VIT changes the expression of 15 selected genes.

Methods

Forty‐five patients starting VIT with a wasp venom allergy were enrolled. The diagnosis was established based on anaphylaxis history (third or fourth grade on the Mueller scale) and positive soluble immunoglobulin E and/or skin tests. Two blood collections were performed in the patient group: before and after 3 months of VIT. One sample was taken in the control group. Gene expression analysis was performed using a reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction with microfluidic cards and normalized to the 18S housekeeping gene.

Results

Commd8 was the only gene that changed expression significantly after the start of VIT (p = 0.012). Its expression decreased towards the levels observed in the healthy controls. Twelve out of 15 genes (commd8, cldn1, cngb3, fads1, hes6, hla‐drb5, htr3b, prlr, slc16a4, snx33, socs3 and twist2) revealed a significantly different expression compared to the healthy controls.

Conclusions

The present study shows that commd8 changes significantly its expression during initial phase of VIT. This gene might be a candidate for VIT biomarker in future studies.
Epstein‐Barr virus‐immortalized B lymphocytes exacerbate experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in xenograft mice
Authors: Polepole Pascal , Bartenslager Alison , Liu Yutong , Petro Thomas M. , Fernando Samodha , Zhang Luwen
Published: June 2020

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common autoimmune disorder affecting the central nervous system. Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) is a causative agent for infectious mononucleosis (IM) that is associated with MS pathogenesis. However, the exact mechanism by which EBV, specifically in IM, increases the risk for MS remains unknown. EBV immortalizes primary B lymphocytes in vitro and causes excessive B lymphocyte proliferation in IM in vivo. In asymptomatic carriers, EBV‐infected B lymphocytes still proliferate to certain degrees, the process of which is tightly controlled by the host immune systems. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mimics key features of MS in humans and is a well‐established rodent model for human MS. We have found that xenografts of EBV‐immortalized B lymphocytes, which partially resemble the hyperproliferation of EBV‐infected cells in IM, exacerbate autoimmune responses in myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein‐induced EAE in C57BL/6 mice. After remission, an additional challenge with EBV‐immortalized cells induces a relapse in EAE. Moreover, xenografts with EBV‐immortalized cells tighten the integrity of the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) in the thalamus and hypothalamus areas of the mouse brains. Genomic sequences of prokaryotic 16S ribosomal RNA presented in the feces reveal that EBV‐immortalized cells significantly change the diversities of microbial populations. Our data collectively suggest that EBV‐mediated proliferation of B lymphocytes may be a risk factor for the exacerbation of MS, which are associated with gut microbiome changes and BBB modulations. Furthermore, multiple xenografts of EBV‐immortalized cells into C57BL/6 mice could serve as a useful model for human relapsing‐remitting MS with predictable severity and timing.
A case series of COVID‐19 patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Li Yang , Li Chunyang , Wang Jian , Zhu Chuanwu , Zhu Li , Ji Fang , Liu Longgen , Xu Tianmin , Zhang Biao , Xue Leyang , Yan Xiaomin , Huang Rui , Wu Chao , Yan Xuebing
Published: June 2020

Previous studies reported that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) was likely to result in liver injury. However, few studies reported the impacts of COVID‐19 on liver function in patients with chronic liver diseases. We aimed to describe a case series of COVID‐19 patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Confirmed hospitalized COVID‐19 patients from hospitals in 10 cities of Jiangsu province, China, were retrospectively included between 18 January 2020 and 26 February 2020. Demographic information, epidemiologic data, clinical features, and treatment data were extracted from medical records. Seven COVID‐19 patients with chronic HBV infection were included. Six (85.7%) patients were male. The patients aged from 33 to 49 years. Two patients had HBV‐related cirrhosis. One patient (14.3%) was positive for serum HBV e‐antigen. On admission, 1 (14.3%) patient had mildly elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level (>40 U/L) and 1 (14.3%) had elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level (>40 U/L). The serum albumin level and platelet counts were decreased in two patients with HBV‐related liver cirrhosis. Three (42.9%) patients had elevated ALT level and 2 (28.6%) patients had elevated AST level in hospitalization. However, the peak ALT and AST level during hospitalization was 51 U/L and 44 U/L, respectively. As of 29 February 2020, all patients were discharged. No patient was admitted to the intensive care units or developed liver failure during hospitalization. The abnormalities of liver function are not uncommon on COVID‐19 patients with chronic HBV infection in our case series. However, no patient developed severe liver‐related complications during hospitalization.
High‐density mapping of multiple atypical atrial flutter. First HD GRID mapping experience among The Commonwealth of Independent States
Authors: Bakytzhanuly Abay , Abdrakhmanov Ayan , Seisembekov Telman , Smagulova Aliya , Blyalova Dariga
Published: June 2020

Mapping of multiple atrial tachycardias after previous cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolations and multiple radiofrequency ablations can be challenging even for experienced specialists. HD Grid high‐density mapping catheter is one of the catheters, which helps not only to precisely identify the mechanisms of macro‐reentry tachycardia but also to avoid unnecessary radiofrequency applications. Accordingly, we present two cases of complex atrial arrhythmia with the use of HD Grid, which showed clear visualization of mechanisms and target ablations with the termination of tachycardia.
Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction reinitiates an inflammatory and chondrodegenerative process in the knee joint
Authors: Hunt Emily R. , Jacobs Cale A. , Conley Caitlin E.‐W. , Ireland Mary L. , Johnson Darren L. , Lattermann Christian
Published: June 2020

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury leads to a sustained increase in synovial fluid concentrations of inflammatory cytokines and biomarkers of cartilage breakdown. While this has been documented post‐injury, it remains unclear whether ACL reconstruction surgery contributes to the inflammatory process and/or cartilage breakdown. This study is a secondary analysis of 14 patients (nine males/five females, mean age = 9, mean BMI = 28) enrolled in an IRB‐approved randomized clinical trial. Arthrocentesis was performed at initial presentation (mean = 6 days post‐injury), immediately prior to surgery (mean = 23 days post‐injury), 1‐week post‐surgery, and 1‐month post‐surgery. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay kits were used to determine concentrations of carboxy‐terminal telopeptides of type II collagen (CTXII), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and IL‐1β in the synovial fluid. The log‐transformed IL‐1β was not normally distributed; therefore, changes between time points were evaluated using a non‐parametric Kruskal‐Wallis one‐way ANOVA. IL‐1β concentrations significantly increased from the day of surgery to the first postoperative time point (P ≤ .001) and significantly decreased at the 4‐week postoperative visit (P = .03). IL‐1β concentrations at the 4‐week postoperative visit remained significantly greater than both preoperative time points (P > .05). IL‐6 concentrations at 1‐week post‐surgery were significantly higher than at initial presentation (P = .013), the day of surgery (P < .001), and 4 weeks after surgery (P = .002). CTX‐II concentrations did not differ between the first three‐time points (P > .99) but significantly increased at 4 weeks post‐surgery (P < .01). ACL reconstruction appears to reinitiate an inflammatory response followed by an increase in markers for cartilage degradation. ACL reconstruction appears to initiate a second “inflammatory hit” resulting in increased chondral breakdown suggesting that post‐operative chondroprotection may be needed.
A Randomized, Controlled Trial of Exercise for Parkinsonian Individuals With Freezing of Gait
Authors: Silva‐Batista Carla , de Lima‐Pardini Andrea Cristina , Nucci Mariana Penteado , Coelho Daniel Boari , Batista Alana , Piemonte Maria Elisa Pimentel , Barbosa Egberto Reis , Teixeira Luis Augusto , Corcos Daniel M. , Amaro Edson , Horak Fay B. , Ugrinowitsch Carlos
Published: June 2020

Background

Exercises with motor complexity induce neuroplasticity in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD), but its effects on freezing of gait are unknown. The objective of this study was to verify if adapted resistance training with instability — exercises with motor complexity will be more effective than traditional motor rehabilitation — exercises without motor complexity in improving freezing‐of‐gait severity, outcomes linked to freezing of gait, and brain function.

Methods

Freezers were randomized either to the adapted resistance training with instability group (n = 17) or to the active control group (traditional motor rehabilitation, n = 15). Both training groups performed exercises 3 times a week for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes were freezing of gait ratio (turning task), cognitive inhibition (Stroop‐III test), motor signs (Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part‐III [UPDRS‐III]), quality of life (PD Questionnaire 39), anticipatory postural adjustment (leg‐lifting task) and brain activation during a functional magnetic resonance imaging protocol of simulated anticipatory postural adjustment task. Outcomes were evaluated before and after interventions.

Results

Only adapted resistance training with instability improved all the outcomes (P < 0.05). Adapted resistance training with instability was more effective than traditional motor rehabilitation (in improving freezing‐of‐gait ratio, motor signs, quality of life, anticipatory postural adjustment amplitude, and brain activation; P < 0.05). Our results are clinically relevant because improvement in the New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (−4.4 points) and UPDRS‐III (−7.4 points) scores exceeded the minimally detectable change (traditional motor rehabilitation group data) and the moderate clinically important difference suggested for PD, respectively. The changes in mesencephalic locomotor region activation and in anticipatory postural adjustment amplitude explained the changes in New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire scores and in freezing‐of‐gait ratio following adapted resistance training with instability, respectively.

Conclusions

Adapted resistance training with instability is able to cause significant clinical improvement and brain plasticity in freezers. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Study examines risk of suicide by first‐time handgun owners
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2020

Researchers examining the link between handgun ownership and suicide have found that first‐time handgun owners are at higher risk of firearm‐related suicide. The findings were published in the June 4 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
Isolation, in vitro study, and stem cell markers for type A spermatogonia in a Characiformes species
Authors: Dias Gisele C. M. , Batlouni Sérgio R. , Cassel Mônica , Chehade Chayrra , De Jesus Lázaro W. O. , Branco Giovana S. , Camargo Marília P. , Borella Maria I.
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to establish a protocol for the characterization, isolation, and culture of type A spermatogonia using specific molecular markers for these cells in fish. To this end, adult Prochilodus lineatus testes were collected and digested enzymatically and the resulting testicular suspension was separated using a discontinuous Percoll gradient, followed by differential plating. The cell cultures obtained were monitored for 15 days and analyzed using the immunofluorescence method with anti‐Vasa, anti‐GFRα1, and anti‐OCT4 antibodies. Spermatogonial enrichment was also performed using flow cytometry. Although discontinuous Percoll gradient centrifugation followed by differential plating enabled the removal of differentiated germ cells and somatic cells, enriching the pool of type A spermatogonia, the enrichment of type A spermatogonia through flow cytometry of samples without Percoll proved to be more efficient. Prominent cell agglomerates that were characterized according to different stem cell markers as type A spermatogonia were observed during the 15 days of the cell culture. The use of immunoperoxidase and western blot analysis methods confirmed the specificity of the markers for type A spermatogonia of P. lineatus. When combined with specific cell culture conditions, the positive characterization of these molecular markers clarified certain aspects of spermatogonial regulation, such as survival and proliferation. Finally, understanding the regulation of the in vitro germ cell maintenance process may contribute to the enhancement of in vivo and in vitro reproduction techniques of endangered or aquaculture fish species.
Relationship between protégés’ self‐concordance and life purpose: The moderating role of mentor feedback environment
Authors: Gong Zhenxing , Van Swol Lyn M. , Hou Wenli , Zhang Na
Published: June 2020

Aim

To deepen our research on how to develop a more positive life purpose, this study investigates the role of protégés’ self‐concordance and mentor feedback environment in shaping protégés’ life purpose.

Method

This study was a cross‐sectional study using a sample of nurses. 700 valid questionnaires were collected. Jamovi and Process Macro were used for analysis.

Results

The positive association between self‐concordance and protégés’ life purpose is stronger when mentor feedback environment is high than when mentor feedback environment is low.

Conclusion

Protégés’ life purpose can be enhanced by self‐concordance, especially for protégés who work in supportive mentor feedback environment.

Implications for nursing management

It is important to build a supportive mentor feedback environment. Further, protégés should promote the transformation of extrinsic motivation to intrinsic motivation.
Review your agreements with online course providers to ensure FERPA compliance
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: June 2020

Thank goodness the spring 2020 term is over! If your institution plans to evaluate its response to the COVID‐19 emergency that led to the mass migration of in‐person education to online classes, why not assess whether the method of delivery complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act? The following issues can be the starting point for your institution's evaluation.
Film veteran diversifies skillset during COVID‐19
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: June 2020

Jessica Miller knew she wanted to work in film since she was a child. “I saw Edward Scissorhands as a kid, and it made me want to work in film,” Miller said.
A micromechanical model for loading and unloading behavior of fiber reinforced plastics under cyclic loading
Authors: Rozo Lopez Nicolas , Chen Jiuheng , Hopmann Christian
Published: June 2020

The high fatigue resistance and low weight features make the unidirectional‐carbon fiber reinforced plastics (UD‐CFRP) attractive for cyclic loading applications. However, the complex damage mechanisms within the composite hinder the understanding of its fatigue response. An energy‐based fatigue model has been proposed for the fatigue behavior of epoxy polymers. However, this kind of approaches dependent on the accurate description of the material's behavior. Our work aims to build a representative volume element model (RVE) for the simulation of the cyclic shear loading behavior of UD‐CFRP, which could support the later extension of an energy‐based fatigue model. To precisely reproduce the micromechanical stress‐strain distribution within the matrix, a nonlinear viscoelastic model has been implemented and validated against experimental data. As a result, the simulated UD‐CFRP hysteresis, as well as the stiffness and strain energy density were accurately reproduced for two load ratios (R = 0.1 and R =  − 1). Additionally, the cyclic strain accumulation observed in the UD‐CFRP can be accurately described by the proposed model.
Electrostatic potential fluctuations and light‐soaking effects in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cells
Authors: Nikolaeva Aleksandra , Krause Maximilian , Schäfer Norbert , Witte Wolfram , Hariskos Dimitrios , Kodalle Tim , Kaufmann Christian A. , Barreau Nicolas , Abou‐Ras Daniel
Published: June 2020

In Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) thin‐film solar cells, laterally inhomogeneous distributions of point defects may induce electrostatic potential fluctuations and thus reduce the open‐circuit voltage (Voc). In the present work, we investigate possible origins of fluctuating potentials and estimate the amplitude of fluctuations and Voc losses in solar cells with various [Ga] in the CIGS absorber, with different buffer layers and with different durations of an RbF postdeposition treatment (PDT). Electron‐beam‐induced current measurements were employed to study the local difference in the width of the space‐charge region (wSCR). It is shown that the amplitude of fluctuations in the wSCR depends significantly on the choice of buffer system and on the duration of the RbF PDT. In addition, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and cathodoluminescence measurements reveal that band‐gap fluctuations do not have substantial impact on the device performance. Finally, some of the investigated cells were exposed to light soaking, which was found to be a means to reduce the detected electrostatic potential fluctuations and also to increase the effective electron diffusion length in the CIGS absorber for a part of the investigated cells.
Immune‐related factors associated with pneumonia in 127 children with coronavirus disease 2019 in Wuhan
Authors: Li Yi , Deng Wenyue , Xiong Hao , Li Hui , Chen Zhi , Nie Yingming , Wang Zhuo , Li Kaili , Li Jianxin
Published: June 2020

Objective

Information regarding the association of immune‐related factors with pneumonia in children with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is scarce. This study aims to summarize the immune‐related factors and their association with pneumonia in children with COVID‐19.

Methods

Children with COVID‐19 at Wuhan Children's Hospital from 28 January to 12 March 2020 were enrolled. Pneumonia due to causes other than COVID‐19 were excluded. The clinical and laboratory information including routine blood tests, blood biochemistry, lymphocyte subsets, immunoglobulins, cytokines, and inflammatory factors were analyzed retrospectively in 127 patients. Normal ranges and mean values of laboratory markers were applied as parameters for logistic regression analyses of their association with pneumonia.

Results

In nonintensive care unit patients, 48.8% and 22.4% of patients had increased levels of procalcitonin and hypersensitive C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) respectively. A total 12.6% and 18.1% of patients had decreased levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and interleukin 10 (IL‐10), respectively. Approximately 65.8% of patients had pneumonia. These patients had decreased levels of globulin (odds ratio [OR], 3.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.41‐6.93; P = .005), IgA (OR, 4.00; 95% CI, 1.13‐14.18; P = .032), and increased levels of hs‐CRP (OR, 3.14; 95% CI, 1.34‐7.36; P = .008), procalcitonin (OR, 3.83; 95% CI, 2.03‐7.24; P < .001), IL‐10 (OR, 7.0; 95% CI, 1.59‐30.80; P = .010), and CD4+ CD25+ T lymphocyte less than 5.0% (OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.04‐3.61; P = 0.038).

Conclusion

Decreased IgA and CD4+ CD25+ T lymphocyte percentage, and increased hs‐CRP, procalcitonin, and IL‐10 were associated with pneumonia, suggesting that the immune‐related factors may participate in the pathogenesis of pneumonia in children with COVID‐19.