bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating sources of bias in pedigree‐based estimates of breeding population size
Authors: White Shannon L. , Sard Nicholas M. , Brundage Harold M. , Johnson Robin L. , Lubinski Barbara A. , Eackles Michael S. , Park Ian A. , Fox Dewayne A. , Kazyak David C.
Published: April 2022

Applications of genetic‐based estimates of population size are expanding, especially for species for which traditional demographic estimation methods are intractable due to the rarity of adult encounters. Estimates of breeding population size (NS) are particularly amenable to genetic‐based approaches as the parameter can be estimated using pedigrees reconstructed from genetic data gathered from discrete juvenile cohorts, therefore eliminating the need to sample adults in the population. However, a critical evaluation of how genotyping and sampling effort influence bias in pedigree reconstruction, and how these biases subsequently influence estimates of NS, is needed to evaluate the efficacy of the approach under a range of scenarios. We simulated a model system to understand the interactive effects of genotyping and sampling effort on error in genetic pedigrees reconstructed from the program COLONY. We then evaluated how errors in pedigree reconstruction influenced bias and precision in estimates of NS using three different rarefaction estimators. Results indicated that pedigree error can be minimal when adequate genetic data are available, such as when juvenile sample sizes are large and/or individuals are genotyped at many informative loci. However, even in cases for which data are limited, using results of the simulation analysis to understand the magnitude and sources of bias in reconstructed pedigrees can still be informative when estimating NS. We applied results of the simulation analysis to evaluate S for a population of federally endangered Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus) in the Delaware River, USA. Our results indicated that NS is likely to be three orders of magnitude lower compared with historic breeding population sizes, which is a considerable advancement in our understanding of the population status of Atlantic sturgeon in the Delaware River. Our analyses are broadly applicable in the design and interpretation of studies seeking to estimate NS and can help to guide conservation decisions when ecological uncertainty is high. The utility of these results is expected to grow as rapid advances in genetic technologies increase the popularity of genetic population monitoring and estimation.
MALDI‐MS/MS of N‐Terminal TMPP‐Acyl Peptides: A Worthwhile Tool to Decipher Protein N‐Termini
Authors: Fernandez Bernard , Armengaud Jean , Subra Gilles , Enjalbal Christine
Published: April 2022

N‐terminal derivatization of proteins with permanently positive charged reagent constitutes a viable mass spectrometry bottom‐up strategy for systematic confident identification of protein N‐termini. Although shotgun nanoLC‐ESI‐MS/MS approaches are commonly applied in that context by dissociating multiply charged molecular ions upon low energy collision‐induced dissociations (CID), we were keen to investigate an alternative sequencing method reckoning on more comprehensive high energy charge remote fragmentations (CRF) available with a MALDI‐Tof/Tof instrument. Hence, two tunable activation methods, i. e. metastable laser‐induced dissociations (LID) and high energy CID, were applied to several synthetic N‐terminal tris(trimethoxyphenyl)phosphonium (TMPP) acetyl peptides and their MS/MS behaviors were compared with low energy CID MS/MS data (LC‐ESI‐QqTof equipment). The amino acid composition was found to play a significant role in the peptide backbone dissociation pathways of these fixed singly charged ions. Proline, arginine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, but also surprisingly aliphatic residues were impacting the expected sequence fragmentation pattern.
Total Synthesis of Bulgarein
Authors: Swieca Patrick , Spiteller Peter
Published: April 2022

Here we report an efficient and short total synthesis of bulgarein (1), a natural compound from Bulgaria inquinans with cytotoxic activity. Key steps in the total synthesis are a Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling reaction of two substituted naphthalene derivates followed by a polyphosphoric acid (PPA) mediated condensation reaction to form the benzo[j]fluoranthene skeleton. Bulgarein (1) was achieved over 4 steps with an overall yield of 25 %.
Dearomatization of Nitro(hetero)arenes through Annulation
Authors: Wang Ning , Ren Jing , Li Kaizhi
Published: April 2022

Dearomatization reactions employing simple aromatic compounds have showcased remarkable progress in the recent decade and have emerged as one of the most straightforward and powerful tools for the creation of highly functionalized, three‐dimensional molecular frameworks commonly encountered in medicinal chemistry and life sciences. Among the aromatic compounds in use, nitro(hetero)arenes, which feature a less pronounced aromatic character due to the presence of highly electron‐withdrawing nitro group, have been extensively used in different types of dearomatization reactions. The dearomative annulation reaction serves as a powerful and versatile method for the construction of complex polycyclic systems. This overview presents a brief summary of recent impressive advances in nitro(hetero)arenes dearomative annulation and provides some inspirations for future research.
Accurately predicting transport properties of porous fibrous materials by machine learning methods
Authors: Cawte Taylr , Bazylak Aimy
Published: April 2022

Machine learning algorithms trained on data gathered from stochastically generated gas diffusion layers (GDLs) were used to predict key transport properties that govern effective mass transport behaviour in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. Specifically, we present the largest database in the present literature of stochastically generated fibrous GDL substrates (containing over 2000 unique materials) and the associated structural and transport properties determined via pore network modelling. Seven established machine learning algorithms were trained to predict the effective single‐phase permeability (ksp) and diffusivity (Dsp), and the relative permeability (kr) and diffusivity (Dr) of the generated materials using well‐defined material properties as input features. Gradient boosting regression (GBR), artificial neural network, and support vector regression were the best performing predictors of the single‐phase properties, all of which exhibited statistically insignificant differences in error. GBR provided the best prediction accuracy of relative transport properties.
Studies on energy storage properties of BFO/WO3 bilayer thin film capacitor
Authors: Lamichhane Shiva , Sharma Savita , Tomar Monika , Chowdhuri Arijit
Published: April 2022

Present work reports the growth of BFO/WO3 bilayer thin film structures over Silicon, corning and ITO coated glass substrates. BFO layer in BFO/WO3 bilayer structure was deposited using Pulsed Laser deposition (PLD) technique at optimized laser energy (200 mJ) while WO3 nanostructured layer was deposited using rf‐magnetron sputtering technique at varying glancing angle from 65° to 80°. For the realization of MBM (metal‐bilayer‐metal) device, top Gold (Au) electrodes have been deposited using thermal evaporation technique. The BFO/WO3 bilayer structure fabricated at 70° glancing angle exhibited the saturation (Ps) and remnant (Pr) polarization as 45.45 μC/cm2 and 21.52 μC/cm2 respectively, which are appreciably higher than the earlier reports for pure BFO thin films. Enhanced energy storage characteristics were obtained in Au/BFO/WO3/ITO structure fabricated at 70° glancing angle with charge‐discharge efficiency (63%) and enlarged recoverable energy density (467 mJ/cm3). Achieved results indicate the utilization of fabricated Au/BFO/WO3/ITO structures towards high energy storage applications.
Effect of nanocomposite alginate‐based film incorporated with cumin essential oil and TiO2 nanoparticles on chemical, microbial, and sensory properties of fresh meat/beef
Authors: Sayadi Mehran , Mojaddar Langroodi Ali , Amiri Sedigheh , Radi Mohsen
Published: April 2022

The environmental problems of synthetic plastics in food packaging have led researchers to synthesize biodegradable films. In this study, nanocomposite alginate‐based films containing TiO2 nanoparticles (1%) and cumin essential oil (CEO, 2%) were fabricated and the potential of these films to protect beef from chemical [pH, total volatile base nitrogen (TVBN), peroxide value, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBA)] and microbial [total viable count, Enterobacteriaceae, lactic acid bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes, and Pseudomonas spp.] spoilage was evaluated during 24 days of storage (4°C). The active films significantly induced the reduction in lipid oxidation, microbial growth, and TVBN values, improved the sensory attributes of treated samples, maintained the redness of meats for a longer time, and increased the shelf life of beef from 4 to 16 days. The results of this study showed that TiO2/CEO alginate‐based nanocomposite film has a great potential for application in meat and meat products.
An overview of factors affecting the quality of beef meatballs: Processing and preservation
Authors: Meng Xiangren , Wu Danxuan , Zhang Zhaoli , Wang Hengpeng , Wu Peng , Xu Zhicheng , Gao Ziwu , Mintah Benjamin Kumah , Dabbour Mokhtar
Published: April 2022

Beef meatball (BM) is a traditional delicious snack with rich nutrition and unique flavor, making it a preferred choice for most consumers. However, the quality of BM is easily affected by many factors, such as the processing, storage, and preservation, which limit the competitive positioning with respect to its market. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to each step during the processing of BMs. Based on previous studies, this systematic review focuses on the effect of key processing factors (including raw materials and ingredients, beating, cooking methods, storage, and preservation) on the quality of BMs. Additionally, this study assessed the effect of each process factor on the physicochemical, sensory, nutritional, and safety attributes of BMs. Finally, the existing review will be beneficial in examining/describing the factors impacting the quality of BMs during processing, which would provide theoretical reference and scientific basis for the standardization and industrialization of BMs.
Intraday liquidity in soybean complex futures markets
Authors: de Boer Thomas A. P. , Gardebroek Cornelis , Pennings Joost M. E. , Trujillo‐Barrera Andres
Published: April 2022

We examine persistence and cross‐market liquidity spillovers in the Chicago Mercantile Exchange soybean complex futures markets. A multidimensional liquidity measure is derived from the limit‐order‐book, and a Vector Heterogeneous Autoregressive model estimates high‐resoluted liquidity from 30 s to one trading day. We find traders' order placement influenced by the liquidity of related markets. Liquidity persistence and positive liquidity spillovers mainly occur within 30 s, whereas spillovers for longer horizons are mostly negative. Findings are important for hedgers that hedge the crush and traders who wish to capitalize on the short‐term deviation of price relationships.
All eyes on the price: An assessment of the willingness‐to‐pay for eyeglasses in rural Burkina Faso
Authors: Grimm Michael , Hartwig Renate
Published: April 2022

Vision impairment is the most common disability worldwide and it is untreated in large parts of the developing world. We assess the willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) for eyeglasses among adults in a resource‐poor rural setting. We elicit the WTP using the Becker‐DeGroot‐Marschak (BDM) method. We combine this approach with a layaway scheme and a video intervention to probe to what extent liquidity constraints and information influence the WTP. Our results show that the average WTP is close to the cost of production for corrective glasses. Nevertheless, we find evidence for information constraints. Our video intervention raises the WTP for corrective glasses by 16 percent. We do not find evidence of screening effects, that is after 6 months, use is unrelated to the initial WTP.
Continuous multidimensional assessment system of medical residents in teaching hospitals
Authors: Yousefi Mehdi , Ebrahimi Zahra , Fazaeli Somayeh , Mashhadi Leila
Published: April 2022

Background and aims

Evaluation of learners is considered as one of the most important principles in education, especially in the clinical fields. Continuous assessment can be used to provide appropriate feedback to students about their strengths and weaknesses. In this regard, this study is aimed to design a system of continuous assessment of medical residents (SCMARs).

Methods

This study was performed using a combination of qualitative methods, including focus group discussion, expert panel, and Delphi technique. The study population consisted of all the stakeholders involved in the evaluation process of medical residents in Imam Reza Hospital Complex (IRHC) in Iran. This study was conducted in three phases, including identification of subthemes and indicators, production of a primary framework for the SCMAR, and agreement on the subthemes of the SCMAR. The nominal group technique was used for generating priority information. Data analysis was performed during the agreement review stage with the Excel software version 2016.

Results

The finalized SCMAR consisted of 10 main themes and 38 subthemes. The themes included objectives, evaluators, areas, and indicators of evaluation, evaluation periods, evaluation requirements, data collection, data sources, point assignment and data analysis methods, reporting, and feedback dissemination methods. Five areas of evaluation and 11 indicators of evaluation were proposed.

Conclusion

A comprehensive assessment system that continuously evaluates the performance of Medical Residents can be used as a stimulus to improve the quality of educational processes. The present study was aimed to address this need by designing a framework for such a system.
Sparfloxacin: Potential Clinical and Economic Impact in the Treatment of Respiratory Infections
Authors: Stein Gary E. , Havlichek Daniel H.
Published: April 2022

Sparfloxacin is a new oral fluoroquinolone antimicrobial that is highly active against common respiratory pathogens, including multiresistant strains. It is well absorbed and has excellent penetration into upper and lower respiratory tissues. Sparfloxacin is administered once a day and does not interfere with the metabolism of other drugs. The agent is highly effective and safe in the treatment of acute sinusitis, exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, and community‐acquired pneumonia. Due to its activity against multidrug‐resistant respiratory pathogens, it has the potential to prevent hospitalization as well as decrease parenteral antibiotic therapy. Consequently, it may generate significant pharmacoeconomic benefits to patients and payers of medical care.
Predictors of response to ambulatory pharmacist‐led diabetes care
Authors: Palka Samuel J. , Koeller Jim M. , Davidson DeWayne , Zeidan Amina R. , Reveles Kelly R.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Ambulatory care pharmacists have been shown to significantly improve health outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, it is unclear which patients are most likely to benefit from these services. The primary objective of this study was to describe clinical response to pharmacist‐led diabetes care and identify baseline and interventional variables that are independently predictive of clinical response.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with T2DM referred for ambulatory care pharmacist diabetes management at one of two health systems in San Antonio, Texas from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2018. Data were collected at baseline and during 6 months of follow‐up. Clinical response was defined as hemoglobin A1C (A1C) reduction from baseline ≥1% or meeting the documented A1C goal. Predictors of clinical response were identified using multivariable logistic regression, including 25 patient and clinical intervention covariates.

Results

A total of 180 patients were included. Patients were predominantly female (63%) and obese (58%) with a T2DM duration ≥10 years (67%). The median (interquartile range) change in A1C from baseline for responders and non‐responders was −2.2% (−3.7 to 1.3) and 0.4% (−0.4 to 1.05) (P < .001), respectively. Significant predictors of response included baseline A1C (odds ratio [OR] 1.41; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08‐1.85), number of completed visits with the pharmacist (OR 1.65; 95% CI 1.03‐2.64), and medication frequency reduction (OR 10.7; 95% CI 1.04‐109.9). Number of primary care provider visits was a negative predictor of response (OR 0.69; 95% CI 0.49‐0.96).

Conclusion

Pharmacist‐led diabetes management was associated with reduced A1C levels in patients with T2DM. Higher patient baseline A1C, more visits with the pharmacist, and medication frequency reduction were predictive of clinical response and should be considered in future patient referral and management protocols.
Guidelines for therapeutic interchange—2022
Authors:   American College of Clinical Pharmacy, Welty Timothy E. , Hilaire Michelle L. , Frantzen Leah M. , Achey Thomas S. , Minze Molly G. , Japs Kelsey L. , Elliott Amber N. , Brasher Cynthia A. , May Dianne W. , Mosley Scott A. , Johnson Corinne G. , Grimm Derek L. , Huffman Sara
Published: April 2022

The American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) Board of Regents charged the 2020 to 2021 Publications Committee to review and revise the 2004 ACCP guideline statement on therapeutic interchange. The committee reviewed previous guidelines and relevant published literature. After development of new guidelines, the committee and Board of Regents voted in support of the updated guideline. The ACCP reaffirms its support of therapeutic interchange. Additional recommendations for appropriate implementation and practice of therapeutic interchange are provided. Therapeutic interchange is an important tool in optimizing patient care, improving access to care, and reducing the cost of medications.
Osteochondral regeneration in rabbit using xenograft decellularized ECM in combination with different biological products; platelet‐rich fibrin, amniotic membrane extract, and mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Rastegar Adib Fatemeh , Bagheri Fatemeh , Sharifi Ali Mohammad
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to investigate the regenerative effect of decellularized osteochondral ECM xenograft in combination with various biological products in an osteochondral (OC) defect. OC tissue from the sheep femur were obtained and decellularized. The decellularized ECM (dECM) was combined with either platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF), amniotic membrane extract (AME), or rabbit bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (rBMSCs). The hybrid dECM‐biological products were then utilized for the treatment of rabbit OC critical size defects. The regenerative potential of different groups was compared using; MRI, macroscopic assessment, histopathology, and histomorphometry. All characterizations analysis verified successful decellularization. Three months post‐surgery, macroscopic findings indicated that dECM was better compared to controls. Also, dECM in combination with AME, PRF, and rBMSCs showed enhanced OC regeneration compared to only dECM (AME: +100%, PRF: +61%, rBMSCs: +28%). In particular, the dECM+AME group results in the best integration of new cartilage into surrounding cartilage tissue. The histomorphometric evaluations demonstrated enhancement in new cartilage formation and bone tissue (86.5 ± 5.9% and 90 ± 7.7%, respectively) for the dECM+AME group compared to other groups. Furthermore, histological results for the dECM+AME elucidated a mature hyaline cartilage tissue that covered the new and symmetrically formed subchondral bone, exhibiting a significantly higher regenerative effect compared to all other treated groups. This finding was also confirmed with MRI images. The current study revealed that in addition to the benefits of dECM alone, its combination with AME indicated to have a superior regenerative effect on OC regeneration. Overall, dECM+AME may be considered a suitable construct for treating knee OC injuries.
Assessment of extracellular vesicle isolation methods from human stool supernatant
Authors: Northrop‐Albrecht Emmalee J. , Taylor William R. , Huang Bing Q. , Kisiel John B. , Lucien Fabrice
Published: April 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are of growing interest due to their potential diagnostic, disease surveillance, and therapeutic applications. While several studies have evaluated EV isolation methods in various biofluids, there are few if any data on these techniques when applied to stool. The latter is an ideal biospecimen for studying EVs and colorectal cancer (CRC) because the release of tumour markers by luminal exfoliation into stool occurs earlier than vascular invasion. Since EV release is a conserved mechanism, bacteria in stool contribute to the overall EV population. In this study, we assessed five EV separation methods (ultracentrifugation [UC], precipitation [EQ‐O, EQ‐TC], size exclusion chromatography [SEC], and ultrafiltration [UF]) for total recovery, reproducibility, purity, RNA composition, and protein expression in stool supernatant. CD63, TSG101, and ompA proteins were present in EV fractions from all methods except UC. Human (18s) and bacterial (16s) rRNA was detected in stool EV preparations. Enzymatic treatment prior to extraction is necessary to avoid non‐vesicular RNA contamination. Ultrafiltration had the highest recovery, RNA, and protein yield. After assessing purity further, SEC was the isolation method of choice. These findings serve as the groundwork for future studies that use high throughput omics technologies to investigate the potential of stool‐derived EVs as a source for novel biomarkers for early CRC detection.
Secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with Rocky Mountain spotted fever in a toddler: A case report
Authors: Hosahalli Vasanna Smitha , Lim Peter Paul C. , Khan Tanya Saeeda , Dalal Jignesh
Published: April 2022

A three‐year‐old boy presented with fever, maculopapular rash involving palms and soles, and hyponatremia two weeks following a tick bite. Empiric doxycycline that he was on was discontinued following negative initial rickettsial serology based on the non‐endemicity of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in Northeast Ohio. He demonstrated high inflammatory markers and met the criteria for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). With a working diagnosis of macrophage activation syndrome secondary to presumed systemic‐onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (soJIA), he received HLH‐directed therapy. Rising antibody titers in convalescent sera established the diagnosis of RMSF. The patient recovered completely with HLH directed therapy and re‐institution of doxycycline. This is the first pediatric case report of Rickettsia rickettsii induced HLH demonstrating a favorable outcome despite modified therapy.
Incidence of active tuberculosis among people living with HIV receiving long‐term antiretroviral therapy in high TB/HIV burden settings in Thailand: implication for tuberculosis preventive therapy
Authors: Suwanpimolkul Gompol , Gatechompol Sivaporn , Kawkitinarong Kamon , Ueaphongsukkit Thornthun , Sophonphan Jiratchaya , Siriyakorn Nirada , Jirajariyavej Supunnee , Khusuwan Suwimon , Panarat Palakorn , Wannalerdsakun Surat , Saetiew Natcha , Chayangsu Sunee , Wiwatrojanagul Sirichai , Noopetch Preudtipong , Danpornprasert Praniti , Mekviwattanawong Sripetcharat , Fujitnirun Chris , Lertpiriyasuwat Cheewanan , Han Win Min , Kerr Stephen J. , Ruxrungtham Kiat , Avihingsanon Anchalee ,   and the HIV‐TB study team
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Among high tuberculosis (TB) and HIV burden countries in Asia, tuberculosis preventive therapy (TPT) in people living with HIV (PLWH) has been underutilized despite its proven benefits independent of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Therefore, we determined the incidence of active TB and mortality among 9179 adult PLWH who attended and received ART from 15 tertiary care hospitals across Thailand.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in 2018 using follow‐up data from 1999 to 2018. The primary endpoint was incident TB disease after ART initiation. Factors associated with TB incidence were analysed using competing risk regression. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate mortality after ART initiation.

Results

During a median of 5.1 years of ART (IQR 2.2–9.5 years), 442 (4.8%) PLWH developed TB (TB/HIV), giving an overall incidence of 750 (95% CI 683–823) per 100,000 persons‐year of follow up (PYFU). In multivariate analysis, lower CD4 at ART initiation (≤100 cells/mm3, adjusted sub‐distribution hazard ratio [aSHR]: 2.08, 95% CI, 1.47–2.92; 101–200 cells/mm3, aSHR: 2.21, 95% CI, 1.54–3.16; 201–350 cells/mm3, aSHR: 1.59, 95% CI, 1.11–2.28 vs. >350 cells/mm3), male sex (aSHR: 1.40, 95% CI, 1.11–1.78), lower body weight (<50 kg, aSHR: 1.52, 95% CI, 1.17–1.95) and prior TB event (aSHR: 3.50, 95% CI, 2.72–4.52) were associated with TB incidence. PLWH with HIV RNA ≥50 copies/ml had 5–9 times higher risk of active TB disease higher than those with HIV RNA <50 copies/ml at the same CD4 level. The risk for developing TB was remarkably high during the initial period of ART (175,511 per 100,000 PYFU at<3 months) and was comparable to the general population after 10 years of ART (151 per 100,000 PYFU). TB/HIV had higher mortality (10% vs. 5%) and poorer HIV treatment outcomes: HIV RNA <50 copies/ml (63.8% vs. 82.8%), CD4 cells count (317 vs. 508 cells/mm3) at the most recent visit.

Conclusions

In this high TB burden country, TB incidence was remarkably high during the first few years after ART initiation and thereafter decreased significantly. Rapid ART initiation and appropriate TPT can be potential key interventions to tackle the TB epidemic and reduce mortality among PLWH in TB/HIV high burden settings.
Cross-reactive cellular, but not humoral, immunity is detected between OC43 and SARS-CoV-2 NPs in people not infected with SARS-CoV-2: Possible role of cTFH cells
Authors: García-Jiménez Álvaro Fernando , Cáceres-Martell Yaiza , Fernández-Soto Daniel , Martínez Fleta Pedro , Casasnovas José M , Sánchez-Madrid Francisco , Frade José Miguel Rodríguez , Valés-Gómez Mar , Reyburn Hugh T
Published: April 2022

Multiple questions about SARS-CoV-2 humoral and cellular immunity remain unanswered. One key question is whether preexisting memory T or B cells, specific for related coronaviruses in SARS-CoV-2-unexposed individuals, can recognize and suppress COVID-19, but this issue remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 antigens are restricted to serum samples from COVID-19 convalescent individuals. In contrast, cross-reactive T cell proliferation and IFN-γ production responses were detected in PBMCs of around 30% of donor samples collected prepandemic, although we found that these prepandemic T cell responses only elicited weak cTFH activation upon stimulation with either HCoV-OC43 or SARS-CoV-2 NP protein. Overall, these observations confirm that T cell cross-reactive with SARS-CoV-2 antigens are present in unexposed people, but suggest that the T cell response to HCoV-OC43 could be deficient in some important aspects, like TFH expansion, that might compromise the generation of cross-reactive TFH cells and antibodies. Understanding these differences in cellular responses may be of critical importance to advance in our knowledge of immunity against SARS-CoV-2.
An exploration of teens’ perspectives of poverty through photovoice: Implications for counselors
Authors: Sackett Corrine R. , Rapa Luke J. , De Alba Rachel E.
Published: April 2022

Researchers explored teens’ perspectives of poverty in their environments through a qualitative participatory action research method called photovoice. Six themes emerged from the data reflecting teens’ experiences with poverty: (1) materialistic world and discrepancies, (2) ability to care for self and others, (3) racism and discrimination, (4) vandalism and abandonment, (5) community responses, both helpful and not helpful, and (6) ignoring issues and lack of awareness. The authors address implications of these findings for counselors.
Identification of potential plasma markers for hepatitis B virus‐related chronic hepatitis and liver fibrosis/cirrhosis
Authors: Zhao Dandan , Yu Songhao , Guo Peilin , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Tang Yuhui , Dong Chen , Zhao Suxian , Li Lu , Al‐Dhamin Zaid , Ai Rong , Xue Ningning , Dong Shiming , Nan Yuemin
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to identify potential plasma biomarkers for hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related liver diseases. High‐throughput transcriptome sequencing analysis was performed on five patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), five patients with HBV‐associated liver fibrosis/liver cirrhosis (LF/LC), and four healthy participants. By short time‐series expression miner and functional analysis, aquaporin 1 (AQP1), dystroglycan 1 (DAG1), and hemoglobin subunit beta (HBB) were identified as potential biomarkers. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the expression levels of AQP1, DAG1, and HBB were upregulated in the three groups. Subsequent enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay tests on the training cohort (n = 150) indicated that the plasma levels of AQP1 and DAG1 were highest in LF/LC patients, followed by those in CHB patients, and the lowest in healthy controls. APAD model, a diagnostic panel incorporating age, platelet, AQP1, and DAG1 levels, exhibited the strongest stratification ability to distinguish LF/LC patients from CHB patients, and to differentiate CHB patients from healthy controls. Furthermore, the diagnostic accuracies of the biomarkers and APAD model were verified in an independent cohort consisting of 230 participants. In conclusion, both AQP1 and DAG1 have good diagnostic values and APAD model greatly enhances the diagnostic accuracy for HBV‐related hepatic diseases.
Percutaneously introduced wireless intramuscular near‐infrared spectroscopy device detects muscle oxygenation changes in porcine model of lower extremity compartment syndrome
Authors: Westman Amanda M. , Guo Hexia , Xu Yameng , Bai Wubin , Liu Yiming , Ouyang Wei , Moritz William , Jacobson Lauren , Weng Yang , Zang Hao , Wu Changsheng , Hu Ziying , Li Shuo , Lu Di , Arafa Hany M. , MacEwan Matthew R. , Tatman Lauren , Rogers John A. , Pet Mitchell A.
Published: April 2022

Serial examination and direct measurement of intracompartmental pressure (ICP) are suboptimal strategies for the detection of acute compartment syndrome (CS) because they are operator‐dependent and yield information that only indirectly reflects intracompartmental muscle perfusion. As a result, instances of unnecessary fasciotomy and unrecognized CS are relatively common. Recently, near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)‐based systems for compartment monitoring have generated interest as an adjunct tool. Under ideal conditions, NIRS directly measures the oxygenation of intracompartmental muscle (StO2), thereby obviating the challenges of interpreting equivocal clinical examination or ICP data. Despite these potential advantages, existing NIRS sensors are plagued by technical difficulties that limit clinical utility. Most of these limitations relate to their transcutaneous design that makes them susceptible to both interference from intervening skin/subcutaneous tissue, underlying hematoma, and instability of the skin‐sensor interface. Here, we present a flexible, wireless, Bluetooth‐enabled, percutaneously introducible intramuscular NIRS device that directly and continuously measures the StO2 of intracompartmental muscle. Proof of concept for this device is demonstrated in a swine lower extremity balloon compression model of acute CS, wherein we simultaneously track muscle oxygenation, ICP, and compartment perfusion pressure (PP). The observed StO2 decreased with increasing ICP and decreasing PP and then recovered following pressure reduction. The mean change in StO2 as the PP was decreased from baseline to 30 mmHg was −7.6%. The mean difference between baseline and nadir StO2 was −17.4%. Cross‐correlations (absolute value) describing the correspondence between StO2 and ICP were >0.73. This novel intramuscular NIRS device identifies decreased muscle perfusion in the setting of evolving CS.
Preparation and Characterization of Phosphoric Acid Doped Polyacrylamide/β‐Cyclodextrin High‐Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane
Authors: Chen Xiaoling , Wang Tian , Shi Caixin , Wang Guanhua , Zhao Yansheng , Liu Yongmei , Zhang Ding
Published: April 2022

The development of high‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells calls for better membrane, and a polyacrylamide/β‐cyclodextrin hydrogel proton exchange membrane is prepared by solution polymerization of β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and acrylamide (Am), for which ammonium persulfate (APS) and N, N″‐(methylene)bisacrylamide (MBA) is used as initiator and crosslinking agent, respectively. The observed proton conductivity of the membrane reaches 12.3 S m−1 at room temperature, when the ratio of β‐CD, APS, MBA to Am monomer is 0.42 mol%, 0.37 mol%, and 0.14 mol%, respectively, and the primary concentration of doped phosphoric acid is 8 mol L−1. The observed proton conductivity evolution on temperature obeys Arrhenius' law, indicating that the proton conduction mainly follows the hopping mechanism. In addition, the prepared PAM/β‐CD proton exchange membrane has a mass loss of only 8.47% at 205 °C, showing good thermal stability compared with PBI membrane. It also has good antioxidative stability as well as promising potential application in high‐temperature fuel cells.
CircTCF25 serves as a sponge for miR‐206 to support proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioma via the Jak2/p‐Stat3/CypB axis
Authors: Yin Hang , Wang Hongyu , Wang Maolin , Yan Yunji , Dong Qiang , Li Qiao , Liu Yang , Wang Xiaoqing , Guo Tianxue , Niu Liang , Zhang He , Wang Bo , Yao Xuan , Yuan Guoqiang , Pan Yawen
Published: April 2022

Glioma is the most common primary malignant intracranial tumor in humans, and glioblastoma (GBM) has been associated with a more aggressive histology and poorer prognosis. There is growing evidence that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the progression of various malignancies; however, the role and molecular mechanism of circRNAs in glioma remain elusive. In the present study, we screened for differentially expressed circRNAs in gliomas by using a bioinformatics method. Significant upregulation in glioma tissues was verified by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), and the prognostic value was evaluated. The potential oncogenic role of circular RNA TCF25 (circTCF25) in glioma was assessed both in vivo and in vitro. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assays confirmed the interaction among circTCF25, microRNA‐206 (miR‐206), and its target gene Cyclophilin B (CypB). circTCF25 was predominantly located in the cytoplasm; the combination of mir‐206 and circTCF25 reverses the effects of knockdown of circTCF25 on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis of glioma cells. Competitive binding between circTCF25 and miR‐206 mainly upregulates target gene CypB expression by preventing its inhibition of the Jak2/p‐stat3 pathway. In addition, knockdown of circTCF25 reduced CypB expression by inhibiting JAK2/p‐stat3, which was rescued by treatment with a miR‐206 inhibitor. In summary, our findings demonstrate that the circTCF25/miR‐206/CypB axis plays a vital role in glioma progression, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis.
Efficacy of Caffeine in ADCY5‐Related Dyskinesia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Méneret Aurélie , Mohammad Shekeeb S. , Cif Laura , Doummar Diane , DeGusmao Claudio , Anheim Mathieu , Barth Magalie , Damier Philippe , Demonceau Nathalie , Friedman Jennifer , Gallea Cécile , Gras Domitille , Gurgel‐Giannetti Juliana , Innes Emily A. , Necpál Ján , Riant Florence , Sagnes Sandrine , Sarret Catherine , Seliverstov Yury , Paramanandam Vijayashankar , Shetty Kuldeep , Tranchant Christine , Doulazmi Mohamed , Vidailhet Marie , Pringsheim Tamara , Roze Emmanuel
Published: April 2022

Background

ADCY5‐related dyskinesia is characterized by early‐onset movement disorders. There is currently no validated treatment, but anecdotal clinical reports and biological hypotheses suggest efficacy of caffeine.

Objective

The aim is to obtain further insight into the efficacy and safety of caffeine in patients with ADCY5‐related dyskinesia.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted worldwide in 30 patients with a proven ADCY5 mutation who had tried or were taking caffeine for dyskinesia. Disease characteristics and treatment responses were assessed through a questionnaire.

Results

Caffeine was overall well tolerated, even in children, and 87% of patients reported a clear improvement. Caffeine reduced the frequency and duration of paroxysmal movement disorders but also improved baseline movement disorders and some other motor and nonmotor features, with consistent quality‐of‐life improvement. Three patients reported worsening.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that caffeine should be considered as a first‐line therapeutic option in ADCY5‐related dyskinesia. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Variants of Mandelbrot and Julia fractals for higher‐order complex polynomials
Authors: Tomar Anita , Prajapati Darshana J. , Antal Swati , Rawat Shivam
Published: April 2022

We establish some escape criteria via Jungck–Mann fixed point iteration system with
‐convexity for complex‐valued polynomials of higher orders. As a result, we point out errors in the corresponding existing criterion and develop a correct technique to obtain the escape criterion for analogous fixed point iterations equipped with
‐convexity. Further, we derive a novel escape radius for visualizing the alluring fractals. Toward the end, we utilize our conclusions to generate some variants of classical Mandelbrot and Julia sets. We observe that the visualized fractals are similar to beautiful objects found in nature and each point in Mandelbrot set includes a massive image data of a Julia set. Some examples are also provided to demonstrate the variation in images and discuss the impact of parameters on the deviation of color and appearance of fractals.
Quercetin Impedes Th17 Cell Differentiation to Mitigate Arthritis Involving PPARγ‐Driven Transactivation of SOCS3 and Redistribution Corepressor SMRT from PPARγ to STAT3
Authors: Yang Yan , Shi Gao‐na , Wu Xin , Xu Min , Chen Cheng‐juan , Zhou Yu , Wei Ya‐zi , Wu Lei , Cui Fen‐fang , Sun Lan , Zhang Tian‐tai
Published: April 2022

Scope

Quercetin (QU) is one of the most abundant flavonoids in plants and has attracted the attention of researchers because of its remarkable antirheumatoid arthritis (RA) effects and extremely low adverse reactions. However, the underlying mechanism needs further study.

Methods and results

Flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）, and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction （qRT‐PCR） reveal the obvious inhibitory effects of QU on Th17 cell differentiation in arthritic mice. More importantly, QU markedly limits the development of Th17 cell polarization, which is virtually compromised by the treatment with peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) inhibitor GW9662 and knockdown of PPARγ. Additionally, molecular dynamics simulation and immunofluorescence exhibit QU directly binds to PPARγ and increases PPARγ nuclear translocation. Besides, QU confers its moderation effect on suppressor of cytokine signaling protein (SOCS3)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) axis partially depending on PPARγ. Furthermore, coimmunoprecipitation shows QU redistributes the corepressor silencing mediator for retinoid and thyroid‐hormone receptors (SMRT) from PPARγ to STAT3. Finally, the inhibition of Th17 response and the antiarthritic effect of QU are nullified by GW9662 treatment in arthritic mice.

Conclusion

QU targets PPARγ and consequently inhibits Th17 cell differentiation by dual inhibitory activity of STAT3 to exert antiarthritic effect. The findings facilitate its development and put forth a stage for uncovering the mechanism of other naturally occurring compounds with chemical structures similar to QU.
Comparison of multicenter MRI protocols for visualizing the spinal cord gray matter
Authors: Cohen‐Adad Julien , Alonso‐Ortiz Eva , Alley Stephanie , Lagana Maria Marcella , Baglio Francesca , Vannesjo Signe Johanna , Karbasforoushan Haleh , Seif Maryam , Seifert Alan C. , Xu Junqian , Kim Joo‐Won , Labounek René , Vojtíšek Lubomír , Dostál Marek , Valošek Jan , Samson Rebecca S. , Grussu Francesco , Battiston Marco , Gandini Wheeler‐Kingshott Claudia A. M. , Yiannakas Marios C. , Gilbert Guillaume , Schneider Torben , Johnson Brian , Prados Ferran
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Spinal cord gray‐matter imaging is valuable for a number of applications, but remains challenging. The purpose of this work was to compare various MRI protocols at 1.5 T, 3 T, and 7 T for visualizing the gray matter.

Methods

In vivo data of the cervical spinal cord were collected from nine different imaging centers. Data processing consisted of automatically segmenting the spinal cord and its gray matter and co‐registering back‐to‐back scans. We computed the SNR using two methods (SNR_single using a single scan and SNR_diff using the difference between back‐to‐back scans) and the white/gray matter contrast‐to‐noise ratio per unit time. Synthetic phantom data were generated to evaluate the metrics performance. Experienced radiologists qualitatively scored the images. We ran the same processing on an open‐access multicenter data set of the spinal cord MRI (N = 267 participants).

Results

Qualitative assessments indicated comparable image quality for 3T and 7T scans. Spatial resolution was higher at higher field strength, and image quality at 1.5 T was found to be moderate to low. The proposed quantitative metrics were found to be robust to underlying changes to the SNR and contrast; however, the SNR_single method lacked accuracy when there were excessive partial‐volume effects.

Conclusion

We propose quality assessment criteria and metrics for gray‐matter visualization and apply them to different protocols. The proposed criteria and metrics, the analyzed protocols, and our open‐source code can serve as a benchmark for future optimization of spinal cord gray‐matter imaging protocols.
Adherence to a caloric budget and body weight change vary by season, gender, and BMI: An observational study of daily users of a mobile health app
Authors: Labonté Katherine , Knäuper Bärbel , Dubé Laurette , Yang Nathan , Nielsen Daiva E.
Published: April 2022

Objective

Self‐monitoring, one of the most important behaviors for successful weight loss, can be facilitated through mobile health applications (mHealth apps). Therefore, it is of interest to determine whether consistent users of these apps succeed in achieving their weight goals. This study used data from an mHealth app that enabled tracking of caloric intake, body weight, and physical activity and provided a caloric budget depending on weight goal. The primary objective was to evaluate adherence to caloric budget and body weight change among the most consistent (i.e., daily) trackers of caloric intake over a calendar year (n = 9372, 50% male).

Methods

Gender‐stratified linear mixed models were conducted to examine the effects of quarter of year (Q1–Q4 as season proxies) and body mass index (BMI) group (normal weight, overweight, obesity) on adherence to a caloric budget (kcal/day). Change in body weight was analyzed using a subset of users (n = 5808) who entered their weight in the app at least once per week, once per month, or once in Q1 and Q4. Physical activity entries were evaluated in exploratory analyses.

Results

Only users with obesity met their caloric budget in Q1. Deviation from budget increased for all groups from Q1 to Q2 (mean change[±standard error of the mean]: +23.7[±1.8] and +39.7[±2.2] kcal/day for female and male users, p < 0.001), was stable between Q2 and Q3, and fluctuated thereafter depending on gender and BMI, with greater deviation among males with overweight. Users with obesity with weight entries at least once per month lost the most weight (−6.1[±0.3] and −4.5[±0.3] kg for females and males, p < 0.001). Physical activity was highest in the summer months.

Conclusions

Among consistent calorie trackers, adherence to a caloric budget and body weight vary by season, gender, and BMI. Self‐monitoring of body weight in addition to calorie tracking may lead to improved weight loss outcomes.
Factors affecting COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy in parents of children with cancer
Authors: Skeens Micah A. , Hill Kylie , Olsavsky Anna , Buff Kimberly , Stevens Jack , Akard Terrah Foster , Shah Nilay , Gerhardt Cynthia A.
Published: April 2022

Aim

Little research exists on coronavirus (COVID‐19) vaccine hesitancy among caregivers of children with cancer. We aimed to (a) describe vaccine hesitancy in parents of children with cancer for both their child and self, and (b) examine the mediating role of parent‐reported COVID impact on the association between COVID exposure and vaccine hesitancy.

Procedure

We conducted a national survey of parents of children with cancer via Facebook and Momcology, a pediatric cancer community‐based organization recruited February–May 2021. Parents completed standardized measures online. A series of mediation models assessed the role of COVID‐19 impact (e.g., effects on parenting and well‐being) on associations between COVID‐19 exposure (e.g., direct/indirect exposure) and vaccine hesitancy. Moderation models examined the role of treatment status, COVID‐19 exposure, impact, and vaccine hesitancy.

Results

Parents (n = 491; 90% mothers; 93% White) reported moderate vaccine hesitancy (M = 2.08, SD = 0.76). Specifically, 18.5% (n = 90) reported they would not vaccinate their child, and 24.4% (n = 119) would only consider vaccination. Parents expressed higher concerns about vaccine side effects for their children (M = 3.01, SD = 0.95) than for themselves (M = 2.61, SD = 1.03; t[479] = 9.07, p < .01). Mediation analysis revealed a significant indirect effect of impact (95% CI [−0.013, −0.001]) on the association between higher exposure and higher vaccine hesitancy (b = .02, p = .06). There was no moderating effect of treatment status. Income remained a significant covariate (b = −.11, p < .01).

Conclusion

Lower parent‐reported COVID exposure, higher COVID impact, concern for side effects, and lower income may be important factors related to vaccine hesitancy among parents of children with cancer. Providers of childhood cancer survivors should address vaccine hesitancy and potential health risks.