bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of severe adverse events, modes of action and drug treatments for COVID-19’s complications
Authors: Astore Courtney , Zhou Hongyi , Jacob Joshy , Skolnick Jeffrey
Published: October 2021

Following SARS-CoV-2 infection, some COVID-19 patients experience severe host driven adverse events. To treat these complications, their underlying etiology and drug treatments must be identified. Thus, a novel AI methodology MOATAI-VIR, which predicts disease-protein-pathway relationships and repurposed FDA-approved drugs to treat COVID-19’s clinical manifestations was developed. SARS-CoV-2 interacting human proteins and GWAS identified respiratory failure genes provide the input from which the mode-of-action (MOA) proteins/pathways of the resulting disease comorbidities are predicted. These comorbidities are then mapped to their clinical manifestations. To assess each manifestation’s molecular basis, their prioritized shared proteins were subject to global pathway analysis. Next, the molecular features associated with hallmark COVID-19 phenotypes, e.g. unusual neurological symptoms, cytokine storms, and blood clots were explored. In practice, 24/26 of the major clinical manifestations are successfully predicted. Three major uncharacterized manifestation categories including neoplasms are also found. The prevalence of neoplasms suggests that SARS-CoV-2 might be an oncovirus due to shared molecular mechanisms between oncogenesis and viral replication. Then, repurposed FDA-approved drugs that might treat COVID-19’s clinical manifestations are predicted by virtual ligand screening of the most frequent comorbid protein targets. These drugs might help treat both COVID-19’s severe adverse events and lesser ones such as loss of taste/smell.
Thermodynamic stability, in-vitro permeability, and in-silico molecular modeling of the optimal Elaeis guineensis leaves extract water-in-oil nanoemulsion
Authors: Romes Nissha Bharrathi , Abdul Wahab Roswanira , Abdul Hamid Mariani , Oyewusi Habeebat Adekilekun , Huda Nurul , Kobun Rovina
Published: October 2021

Nanoemulsion is a delivery system used to enhance bioavailability of plant-based compounds across the stratum corneum. Elaeis guineensis leaves are rich source of polyphenolic antioxidants, viz. gallic acid and catechin. The optimal E. guineensis leaves extract water-in-oil nanoemulsion was stable against coalescence, but it was under significant influence of Ostwald ripening over 90 days at 25 °C. The in-vitro permeability revealed a controlled and sustained release of the total phenolic compounds (TPC) of EgLE with a cumulative amount of 1935.0 ± 45.7 µgcm−2 after 8 h. The steady-state flux and permeation coefficient values were 241.9 ± 5.7 µgcm−2 h−1 and 1.15 ± 0.03 cm.h−1, respectively. The kinetic release mechanism for TPC of EgLE was best described by the Korsmeyer–Peppas model due to the highest linearity of R2 = 0.9961, indicating super case II transport mechanism. The in-silico molecular modelling predicted that the aquaporin-3 protein in the stratum corneum bonded preferably to catechin over gallic acid through hydrogen bonds due to the lowest binding energies of − 57.514 kcal/mol and − 8.553 kcal/mol, respectively. Thus, the in-silico study further verified that catechin could improve skin hydration. Therefore, the optimal nanoemulsion could be used topically as moisturizer to enhance skin hydration based on the in-silico prediction.
Antimicrobial resistance in colonizing group B Streptococcus among pregnant women from a hospital in Vietnam
Authors: Van Du Vu , Dung Pham Thai , Toan Nguyen Linh , Van Mao Can , Bac Nguyen Thanh , Van Tong Hoang , Son Ho Anh , Thuan Nghiem Duc , Viet Nguyen Thanh
Published: October 2021

Few studies have been conducted on group B Streptococcus (GBS) in Vietnam. We determined the GBS colonization and antimicrobial resistance vaginal-rectal profile of 3863 Vietnamese pregnant women over 5 years. Maternal GBS colonization was characterized by antibiotic susceptibility. Overall, the GBS colonization rate was 8.02% (95% CI: 7.20–8.94%). Compared to sampling ≥ 35 weeks of gestation, the GBS colonization rate was statistically higher (p = 0.004) with sampling < 35 weeks. Among 272 antimicrobial susceptibility testing isolates, all were susceptible to ampicillin, penicillin, ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, vancomycin, and quinupristin/dalfopristin. Resistance was highest for tetracycline (89.66%), followed by erythromycin (76.23%) and clindamycin (58.21%). Multidrug resistance and resistance to ≥ 6 different antibiotics were 60.66% and 8.82%, respectively. Resistance to clindamycin but not erythromycin (L phenotype) was 2.2%. The clindamycin resistance rate was significantly increased (p = 0.005) during the study period. These data demonstrate a low rate of maternal GBS colonization. The high rate of erythromycin, clindamycin, and multidrug resistance to GBS that can be transmitted to neonates is an important risk factor to consider. β-lactams continue to be appropriate for first-line treatment and prophylaxis in the study area. Ongoing monitoring should be considered in the future.
Why animals swirl and how they group
Authors: Nuzhin Egor E. , Panov Maxim E. , Brilliantov Nikolai V.
Published: October 2021

We report a possible solution for the long-standing problem of the biological function of swirling motion, when a group of animals orbits a common center of the group. We exploit the hypothesis that learning processes in the nervous system of animals may be modelled by reinforcement learning (RL) and apply it to explain the phenomenon. In contrast to hardly justified models of physical interactions between animals, we propose a small set of rules to be learned by the agents, which results in swirling. The rules are extremely simple and thus applicable to animals with very limited level of information processing. We demonstrate that swirling may be understood in terms of the escort behavior, when an individual animal tries to reside within a certain distance from the swarm center. Moreover, we reveal the biological function of swirling motion: a trained for swirling swarm is by orders of magnitude more resistant to external perturbations, than an untrained one. Using our approach we analyze another class of a coordinated motion of animals—a group locomotion in viscous fluid. On a model example we demonstrate that RL provides an optimal disposition of coherently moving animals with a minimal dissipation of energy.
Fish can use hydrostatic pressure to determine their absolute depth
Authors: Davis Victoria A. , Holbrook Robert I. , de Perera Theresa Burt
Published: October 2021

Hydrostatic pressure is a global cue that varies linearly with depth which could provide crucial spatial information for fish navigating vertically; however, whether fish can determine their depth using hydrostatic pressure has remained unknown. Here we show that Mexican tetras (Astyanax mexicanus) can learn the depth of a food site and consistently return to it with high fidelity using only hydrostatic pressure as a cue. Further, fish shifted their search location vertically as predicted if using pressure alone to signal depth. This study uncovers new sensory information available to fish which allows them to resolve their absolute depth on a fine scale.
Tumor microenvironment and nanotherapeutics: intruding the tumor fort
Authors: Ravi Kiran Ammu V. V. V. , Kusuma Kumari Garikapati , Krishnamurthy Praveen T. , Khaydarov Renat R.
Published: October 2021

The tumor microenvironment is an obstructive fort that hinders the delivery of drugs. Manipulating this fort using nanoparticle-based strategies could aid in effectively managing tumors.
Emerging investigator series: human CYP2A6 catalyzes the oxidation of 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol
Authors: Daramola Oluwadamilola , Rand Amy A.
Published: October 2021

The human polymorphic enzyme CYP2A6 is primarily responsible for catalyzing the oxidation and activation of one PFAS, the 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol.
An overview of the development of EED inhibitors to disable the PRC2 function
Authors: Liu Kai-Lu , Zhu Kongkai , Zhang Hua
Published: October 2021

EED inhibitors to disable the PRC2 function were summarized.
Functional nanomaterials, synergisms, and biomimicry for environmentally benign marine antifouling technology
Authors: Kumar Avishek , AL-Jumaili Ahmed , Bazaka Olha , Ivanova Elena P. , Levchenko Igor , Bazaka Kateryna , Jacob Mohan V.
Published: October 2021

This review outlines recent progress and strategies for highly efficient, environmentally-friendly marine antifouling technology based on nanomaterials and nanocomposites, as well as synergistic and biomimetic approaches.
High magnetoresistance of a hexagonal boron nitride–graphene heterostructure-based MTJ through excited-electron transmission
Authors: Harfah Halimah , Wicaksono Yusuf , Sunnardianto Gagus Ketut , Majidi Muhammad Aziz , Kusakabe Koichi
Published: October 2021

This work presents an ab initio study of a few-layer hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and hBN–graphene heterostructure sandwiched between Ni(111) layers.
Water dissociation and association on mirror twin boundaries in two-dimensional MoSe2: insights from density functional theory calculations
Authors: Joseph T. , Ghorbani-Asl M. , Batzill M. , Krasheninnikov Arkady V.
Published: October 2021

The adsorption and dissociation of water molecules on two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides is expected to be dominated by point defects, such as vacancies, and edges, but mirror twin boundaries also play a role.
Silver-catalyzed decarboxylative radical relay difluoroalkylation–carbocyclization: convenient access to CF2-containing quinolinones
Authors: Zhao Feng , Guo Sa , Zhang Yan , Sun Ting , Yang Bing , Ye Yong , Sun Kai
Published: October 2021

A practical Ag-catalyzed formal decarboxylation and radical difluoroalkylation–carbocyclization–hydrolysis route is established to construct a series of structurally diverse CF2-containing N-heterocycles.
Towards the development of flexible carbon nanotube–parafilm nanocomposites and their application as bioelectrodes
Authors: Gopal N. , Kumar S. , Sahney R.
Published: October 2021

Soft, flexible and conductive interfaces, which can be used as electrode materials integrated with commercial electronic components and the human body for continuous monitoring of different analytes are in high demand in wearable electronics.
A carbon dot-based Co-nanozyme with alkaline phosphatase – mechanism and application
Authors: Fan Haiyan , Dukenbayev Kanat , Sun Qinglei , Khamijan Medina , Turdaliyev Akhrorbek , Ysmaiyl Alibek , Tassanbiyeva Aigerim , Ma Cuiping , Xie Yingqiu
Published: October 2021

We discovered an enhancement of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity upon the addition of cauliflower-derived carbon dots (CFCDs), which can be applied as a sensor for ALP.
New carvacrol and thymol derivatives as potential insecticides: synthesis, biological activity, computational studies and nanoencapsulation
Authors: Natal Carolina M. , Fernandes Maria José G. , Pinto Nuno F. S. , Pereira Renato B. , Vieira Tatiana F. , Rodrigues Ana Rita O. , Pereira David M. , Sousa Sérgio F. , Fortes A. Gil , Castanheira Elisabete M. S. , T. Gonçalves M. Sameiro
Published: October 2021

Thymol and carvacrol derivatives were synthesised. Two of them proved to be mildly active againstSf9insect cell line and one has presented selectivity by proving to be less toxic to human cells than the naturally derived starting materials.
Synergistic effect of aluminum diethylphosphinate/sodium stearate modified vermiculite on flame retardant and smoke suppression properties of amino coatings
Authors: Li Siwei , Wang Jihu , Wen Shaoguo , Chen Yabo , Zhang Jijia , Wang Changrui
Published: October 2021

Schematic illustration of the flame retardant and smoke suppression mechanism of ANE coatings during the combustion process.
Photoluminescence properties of cuprous phosphide prepared through phosphating copper with a native oxide layer
Authors: Peng Xue , Lv Yanfei , Fu Li , Chen Fei , Su Weitao , Li Jingzhou , Zhang Qi , Zhao Shichao
Published: October 2021

The presence of cuprous oxide results in band bending at the interface between cuprous phosphide and cuprous oxide, forming carrier traps, which improves the fluorescence properties of cuprous phosphide.
Self-trapped exciton emission and piezochromism in conventional 3D lead bromide perovskite nanocrystals under high pressure
Authors: Shi Yue , Zhao Wenya , Ma Zhiwei , Xiao Guanjun , Zou Bo
Published: October 2021

We first achieved self-trapped exciton emission with outstanding white-light chromaticity coordinates of (0.330, 0.325) in conventional 3D halide perovskite nanocrystals through pressure engineering.
Piezoelectric nanogenerator based on flexible PDMS–BiMgFeCeO6 composites for sound detection and biomechanical energy harvesting
Authors: Hajra Sugato , Oh Yumi , Sahu Manisha , Lee Kyungtaek , Kim Hang-Gyeom , Panigrahi Basanta Kumar , Mistewicz Krystian , Kim Hoe Joon
Published: October 2021

Piezoelectric nanogenerators are dependent on a piezoelectric material for the conversion of mechanical stress into useful electrical energy.
Coumarin-embedded MOF UiO-66 as a selective and sensitive fluorescent sensor for the recognition and detection of Fe3+ ions
Authors: Feng Danyang , Zhang Tian , Zhong Tianyuan , Zhang Chi , Tian Yuyang , Wang Guang
Published: October 2021

A new fluorescent HCAA@UiO-66 composite consisting of 7-hydroxycoumarin-4-acetic acid and UiO-66 was prepared, which exhibited highly selective and sensitive fluorescence sensing ability for Fe3+ ions.
On the mechanisms involved in the tensile strength of a dissimilar Ti6Al4V/316L laser welded assembly
Authors: Mannucci Antoine , Bolot Rodolphe , Tomashchuk Iryna , Mathieu Alexandre , Cicala Eugèn , Lafaye Sébastien
Published: October 2021

The aim of the present work is to analyze the thermomechanical behavior of dissimilar laser seams by means of FE modeling. The case of a Ti6Al4V/316L assembly with vanadium insert was considered. Effective mechanical properties of the main materials and cords were first estimated from NHT measurements. Modeling of the double pass laser welding process was performed first by considering shrinking of the two weld seams during manufacturing, to get the residual stress state in the welded assembly. Modeling of the tensile test was performed in a second step to study the assembly behavior during loading. In these modeling results, the mesh was the cross-section of the micrograph of the assembly itself. The corresponding stress/strain curve was calculated and results were reported for the residual stress state after manufacturing as well as a stress state close to the Ultimate Tensile Strength.
Belastung und Beanspruchung in der stationären Altenpflege – Eine Analyse als Grundlage in der betrieblichen Gesundheitsförderung
Authors: Huber Gerhard , Köppel Maximilian , Peters Stefan
Published: October 2021

Durch den demografischen Wandel und die alternde Gesellschaft stehen die bereits jetzt schon durch Fachkräftemangel gezeichneten Pflegeberufe vor einer stetig wachsenden Herausforderung. Hinzu kommt, dass Pflegekräfte im Vergleich mit den Durchschnittswerten anderer Branchen geringere Verweildauern in ihrem Beruf, überdurchschnittlich viele Arbeitsunfähigkeitstage sowie einen um 40% höheren Krankenstand berichten. Dies sind alles Indikatoren dafür, dass Pflegekräfte einer hohen körperlichen wie psychischen Belastung ausgesetzt sind. Studiendaten bestätigen diese Schlussfolgerung, wonach Pflegekräfte mit 2,5 MET etwa den doppelten Energieverbrauch aufweisen wie Menschen in sitzenden Berufen (1,3 MET). Auch hinsichtlich der Bewegungsqualität sind die Pflegeberufe fordernd, so gibt die Mehrheit der Pflegekräfte an, regelmäßig Lasten von mehr als 20 kg heben zu müssen und derartigen Belastungen über Jahre ausgesetzt zu sein. Damit Pflegekräfte dem begegnen können, ohne sich selbst zu überbeanspruchen, sollte ihre Resilienz durch Maßnahmen zur betrieblichen Gesundheitsförderung gestärkt werden. Dank des Pflegepersonalstärkungsgesetzes liegt seit 2019 ein Statement seitens der Bundesregierung vor, wodurch dieser Forderung proaktiv begegnet werden kann.
Ein Einstieg zu digitalen Möglichkeiten im POLKA-Projekt – der Adventskalender 2020
Authors: Gassert Janina , Baldus Franz-Josef , Streber René
Published: October 2021

Die Idee für einen digitalen Adventskalender kam auf, um die Mitarbeiter in den Pflegeeinrichtungen gerade in der Vorweihnachtszeit zu unterstützen. Durch die steigenden Zahlen, die Mehrbelastung und die sozialen Einschränkungen wurde in diesen schweren Zeiten psychisch wie physisch mehr abverlangt als zuvor. Die Übermittlung der digitalen Inhalte sollte die Interessenten auf einfachem Weg erreichen und Informationen und Tipps für einen gesünderen Arbeitsalltag vermitteln. Die technische Vorbereitung und die Details der Übermittlung werden im Folgenden beschrieben. Mit Kreation und Produktion der einzelnen Adventskalender-Türchen haben wir unsere Kurzvideoagentur, die Snack-Content Company (SCC) Deutschland GmbH, beauftragt. Von ihr wurde folgendes Konzept erarbeitet und umgesetzt.
Co-solvented solution filling and interfacial phenomena of sublimation transferred emitting layer for high-resolution OLED fabrication
Authors: Lee Jun Yeub , Ju Byeong-Kwon , Cho Kwan Hyun
Published: October 2021

We investigated co-solvented solution properties and relations in the sublimation transfer process and optimized intense pulse light (IPL) using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) analysis. The capillary force induced co-solvented solution into the microchannel, with the co-solvented solution properties influencing the thickness and morphology of the sublimation transferred patterns of the emitting layer. The sublimation transferred pattern was optimized by tuning the ratio of solvents that were mixtures of chlorobenzene and ortho-dichlorobenzene. In addition, an analysis of the interface between pre-deposited layers and the evaporated layer fabricated by variation of IPL energy was conducted by means of ToF-SIMS depth profiling. Host emissions or the occurrence of the intermixing of layers was detected due to insufficient or excessive IPL energy exposure. With the optimized IPL energy, the current efficiency and external quantum efficiency were maximized without a recombination zone shift or intermixing during the IPL evaporation process.
Pilot demonstration of correlation-domain LiDAR for high-speed vibration detection
Authors: Kiyozumi Takaki , Miyamae Tomoya , Noda Kohei , Lee Heeyoung , Nakamura Kentaro , Mizuno Yosuke
Published: October 2021

Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology has recently been attracting considerable attention, but it is still difficult to achieve distributed reflectivity sensing and vibration detection simultaneously at high speed. To tackle this issue, we develop a new LiDAR configuration by extending fiber-optic correlation-domain reflectometry to the spatial system and demonstrate its fundamental operations. We experimentally show that the random accessibility unique to this configuration enables high-speed measurement of the vibration frequency and the position of a mirror oscillating at up to 100 kHz. This LiDAR may be applicable to visualization of flow velocity distributions, especially to distributed detection of turbulence, which induces vibration of dust particles in air.
Characterization and performance of the Apollon short-focal-area facility following its commissioning at 1 PW level
Authors: Burdonov K. , Fazzini A. , Lelasseux V. , Albrecht J. , Antici P. , Ayoul Y. , Beluze A. , Cavanna D. , Ceccotti T. , Chabanis M. , Chaleil A. , Chen S. N. , Chen Z. , Consoli F. , Cuciuc M. , Davoine X. , Delaneau J. P. , d’Humières E. , Dubois J.-L. , Evrard C. , Filippov E. , Freneaux A. , Forestier-Colleoni P. , Gremillet L. , Horny V. , Lancia L. , Lecherbourg L. , Lebas N. , Leblanc A. , Ma W. , Martin L. , Negoita F. , Paillard J.-L. , Papadopoulos D. , Perez F. , Pikuz S. , Qi G. , Quéré F. , Ranc L. , Söderström P.-A. , Scisciò M. , Sun S. , Vallières S. , Wang P. , Yao W. , Mathieu F. , Audebert P. , Fuchs J.
Published: October 2021

We present the results of the first commissioning phase of the short-focal-length area of the Apollon laser facility (located in Saclay, France), which was performed with the first available laser beam (F2), scaled to a nominal power of 1 PW. Under the conditions that were tested, this beam delivered on-target pulses of 10 J average energy and 24 fs duration. Several diagnostics were fielded to assess the performance of the facility. The on-target focal spot and its spatial stability, the temporal intensity profile prior to the main pulse, and the resulting density gradient formed at the irradiated side of solid targets have been thoroughly characterized, with the goal of helping users design future experiments. Emissions of energetic electrons, ions, and electromagnetic radiation were recorded, showing good laser-to-target coupling efficiency and an overall performance comparable to that of similar international facilities. This will be followed in 2022 by a further commissioning stage at the multi-petawatt level.
Phase change of Ge2Sb2Te5 under terahertz laser illumination
Authors: Zhou Kang , Nan Junyi , Shen Jiabin , Li Ziping , Cao J. C. , Song Zhitang , Zhu Min , He Boqu , Yan Ming , Zeng Heping , Li Hua
Published: October 2021

Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) is the typical phase change material (PCM) that can reversibly transform between the amorphous (a) and crystalline (c) states. Because the optical properties are phase-dependent, GST has been widely used in various photonic applications, such as optical switches and non-volatile memories. Currently, the photonic applications of the GST PCM have been demonstrated by employing lasers in visible and infrared wavelengths. Extending the photonic applications into other wavelengths is much demanded. Here, we investigate the phase change of the GST material illuminated by using a terahertz quantum cascade laser emitting around 2.5 THz. A finite-element simulation is employed to study the temperature and transmission changes induced by terahertz irradiation. It reveals that the phase change can be achieved and the transmission is reduced by 30% when the GST material is irradiated by the 2.5 THz laser light. Furthermore, a z-scan technique experimentally presents the phase change behaviors of GST illuminated by the terahertz light, which is visually proved by transmission electron microscopy. Our work paves a way for the applications of GST materials in the terahertz optical components, e.g., modulators and switches.
Excitonic effect in black phosphorus oxides
Authors: Chi Longxing , Lee Ming-Hsien , Chu Ta-Ya , Tao Ye
Published: October 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) few-layer black phosphorus (BP) with extraordinary electronic and optical properties is an excellent candidate for optoelectronic applications. However, rapid surface oxidation under ambient environment significantly restricts its practicability. Here, we investigate excitonic effect in few-layer BP oxides via first-principle calculation and effective mass approximation. Influence of layer numbers and degree of oxidation on exciton binding energy (EBE) is discussed in detail for the first time. It is found that EBE in BP oxides decreases exponentially with increasing sample thickness and becomes almost oxygen independent over six layers with values similar to that of pristine BP. Instead, oxidation alters excitation probability of excitons in few-layer BP via a direct/indirect bandgap transition.
Serotonin electrochemical detection in tomatoes at MWCNT-AONP nanocomposite modified electrode
Authors: Motsaathebe Pholoso C , Fayemi Omolola E
Published: October 2021

This work reports on the successful synthesis of antimony oxide nanoparticles (AONPs) by hydrothermal method, acid treatment of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (f-MWCNTs), and fabrication of a MWCNT-AONP nanocomposite on screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) to detect serotonin (5-HT) in tomatoes. The synthesized nanomaterials were all characterized with x-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The electro-analytic and electrocatalytic experiments were performed utilizing square wave voltammetry (SWV) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) methods. The SPCE-MWCNT-AONP modified electrodes showed better electron transport and improved current response towards detection of 5-HT when compared to other electrodes studied. The current response decreased in this manner, the SPCE-MWCNT-AONP (84.13 μA) > SPCE-fMWCNTs (33.49 μA) > SPCE-AONPs (24.40 μA) > SPCE-bare (2.89 μA). The sensitivity, limit of detection (LoD) and limit of quantification (LoQ) for the SPCE-MWCNT-AONP modified electrode towards 5-HT detection was 0.2863 μA μM−1, 24 .6 nM, and 74 nM respectively, with linearity from 0.016–0.166 μM (R2 = 0.9851) utilizing SWV. The acquired LoD value for the proposed sensor compared favorably with other chemically modified electrodes from literature. Furthermore, the proposed sensor showed good reproducibility and excellent anti-interference behavior. Real-sample analysis of 5-HT in tomatoes showed excellent recoveries ranging from 91.32 to 108.28%, with an average RSD (%) value of 2.57 (n = 3). The obtained results strongly suggest that the proposed novel sensor could be applicable in diagnosing point-of-care diseases and therapeutics.
NAA80 bi-allelic missense variants result in high-frequency hearing loss, muscle weakness and developmental delay
Authors: Muffels Irena J J , Wiame Elsa , Fuchs Sabine A , Massink Maarten P G , Rehmann Holger , Musch Jiska L I , Van Haaften Gijs , Vertommen Didier , van Schaftingen Emile , van Hasselt Peter M
Published: October 2021

The recent identification of NAA80/NAT6 as the enzyme that acetylates actins generated new insight into the process of post-translational actin modifications; however, the role of NAA80 in human physiology and pathology has not been clarified yet. We report two individuals from a single family harbouring a homozygous c.389T>C, p.(Leu130Pro) NAA80 genetic variant. Both individuals show progressive high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss, craniofacial dysmorphisms, developmental delay and mild proximal and axial muscle weakness. Based on the molecular structure, we predicted and confirmed the NAA80 c.389T>C, p.(Leu130Pro) variant to result in protein destabilization, causing severely decreased NAA80 protein availability. Concurrently, individuals exhibited a ∼50% decrease of actin acetylation. NAA80 individual derived fibroblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells showed increased migration, increased filopodia counts and increased levels of polymerized actin, in agreement with previous observations in NAA80 knock-out cells. Furthermore, the significant clinical overlap between NAA80 individuals and individuals with pathogenic variants in several actin subtypes reflects the general importance of controlled actin dynamics for the inner ear, brain and muscle. Taken together, we describe a new syndrome, caused by NAA80 genetic variants leading to decreased actin acetylation and disrupted associated molecular functions. Our work suggests a crucial role for NAA80-mediated actin dynamics in neuronal health, muscle health and hearing.
The birth hour of mammals: insights from intra-specific variation in wild blue monkeys
Authors: Cords Marina , Gometz Emma
Published: October 2021

While most mammals show birth hour peaks at times of the 24-h cycle when they are less active, there are exceptions to this general pattern. Such exceptions have been little explored, but may clarify evolutionary reasons for the diel timing of births. We investigated intraspecific variation in birth hour in wild blue monkeys Cercopithecus mitis stuhlmanni, a diurnal primate, to identify factors that differentiated daytime versus nighttime births. Behavioral and life history data from 14 groups over 14 years revealed that 4% of 484 births occurred during the day. Probability of daytime birth varied with mother’s age, peaking at 15.7 years. Births whose annual timing deviated most from the population’s peak birth months were 5 times more likely to occur during daytime than those that deviated less. There was no evidence that mother’s rank or infant sex influenced birth hour, and mixed evidence that daytime births were more probable in larger groups. Survivorship did not differ significantly for infants born during the day versus night. Prime-aged mothers may be able to handle the consequences of an unusual birth hour more successfully than mothers with less experience or those weakened by age. Daytime birth may be more advantageous in the off-season because nights are colder at that time of year. These findings are consistent with hypotheses relating birth hour to the risk of losing social protection in group-living animals, but are not consistent with those emphasizing risk of conspecific harassment. Patterns of within-species variation can help in evaluating evolutionary hypotheses for non-random birth hour.
Acoustic signal dominance in the multimodal communication of a nocturnal mammal
Authors: Zhang Chun-Mian , Sun Cong-Nan , Lucas Jeffrey R , Feng Jiang , Jiang Ting-Lei
Published: October 2021

Multimodal communication in animals is common, and is particularly well studied in signals that include both visual and auditory components. Multimodal signals that combine acoustic and olfactory components are less well known. Multimodal communication plays a crucial role in agonistic interactions in many mammals, but relatively little is known about this type of communication in nocturnal mammals. Here, we used male Great Himalayan leaf-nosed bats Hipposideros armiger to investigate multimodal signal function in acoustic and olfactory aggressive displays. We monitored the physiological responses (heart rate [HR]) when H. armiger was presented with 1 of 3 stimuli: territorial calls, forehead gland odors, and bimodal signals (calls + odors). Results showed that H. armiger rapidly increased their HR when exposed to any of the 3 stimuli. However, the duration of elevated HR and magnitude of change in HR increased significantly more when acoustic stimuli were presented alone compared with the presentation of olfactory stimuli alone. In contrast, the duration of elevated HR and magnitude of change in HR were significantly higher with bimodal stimuli than with olfactory stimuli alone, but no significant differences were found between the HR response to acoustic and bimodal stimuli. Our previous work showed that acoustic and chemical signals provided different types of information; here we describe experiments investigating the responses to those signals. These results suggest that olfactory and acoustic signals are non-redundant signal components, and that the acoustic component is the dominant modality in male H. armiger, at least as it related to HR. This study provides the first evidence that acoustic signals dominate over olfactory signals during agonistic interactions in a nocturnal mammal.
Culprit-plaque morphology and residual SYNTAX score for predicting cardiovascular events in acute myocardial infarction: an optical coherence tomography study
Authors: Wang Y , Zhao X X , Zhou P , Liu C , Li J N , Zhou J Y , Chen R Z , Chen Y , Song L , Zhao H J , Yan H B
Published: October 2021

Background

Previous studies reported that different culprit-plaque morphologies [plaque rupture (PR) and plaque erosion (PE) identified by optical coherence tomography (OCT)] might influence clinical outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Moreover, residual SYNTAX score (rSS) was proved to be related to worse prognosis.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic implication of culprit-plaque morphologies and rSS for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

A total of 369 STEMI patients undergoing preintervention optical coherence tomography examination were included and divided into 4 groups based on PR and rSS: PE/low-rSS (n=92), PE/high-rSS (n=82), PR/low-rSS (n=80) and PR/high-rSS (n=115). The rSS was determined as the SYNTAX score remaining after completion of planned PCI. MACE was defined as the composite of all-cause death, recurrence of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke and unplanned revascularization of any coronary artery. K-M survival analysis and cox regression with adjustments for multiple covariates was used for outcome analysis.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 2.2 years, MACE occurred in 58 (15.7%) patients: 7.6% (7 patients) among patients with PE/low-rSS, 13.4% (11 patients) among patients with PE/high-rSS, 6.3% (5 patients) among patients with PR/low-rSS and 25.2% (29 patients) among patients with PR/high-rSS (p=0.001). In fully adjusted analyses, patients with PR/high-rSS presented higher MACE risk than patients with PE/low-rSS (HR: 3.17, 95% CI: 1.37–7.33, P=0.007).

Conclusion

In STEMI patients, patients with PR/high-rSS had worse prognosis, indicating culprit-plaque morphology and residual atherosclerosis burden should be taken into account in risk stratification and management of patients with STEMI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences FlowchartSurvival curves
Sex and age differences in patients with acute coronary syndrome and non-obstructive coronary arteries: presentation and outcome
Authors: Williams M G L , Dastidar A , Liang K , Johnson T W , Baritussio A , Strange J W , Joshi N , Dorman S , De Garate E , Spagnoli L , Fiori E , Lawton C B , Biglino G , Plein S , Bucciarelli-Ducci C
Published: October 2021

Aims

A substantial number of patients present with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and non-obstructive coronary arteries. Sex and age differences in these patients are not well understood. This study aims to evaluate the impact of sex and age on clinical presentation and outcome in patients with ACS and non-obstructive coronary arteries, with either an ischaemic or non-ischaemic cause.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients with an ACS and non-obstructive coronary arteries (n=719) from a single tertiary centre underwent comprehensive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. CMR was performed at a median time of 30 days after presentation and identified a diagnosis in 74% of patients. Patients with an ischaemic or non-ischaemic aetiology (n=529) on CMR were followed prospectively. All-cause mortality was 11% over a median follow up of 4.9 years, with no significant difference between sexes (11% versus 11% p=0.732). Women were more likely to have an ischaemic aetiology on CMR (40% v 31%, p=0.037). Age group (HR 1.48, p=0.002), log peak troponin (HR 0.78, p=0.033) and LVEF (HR 0.98, p=0.032) were independent predictors of mortality. Men aged >60 years with a non-ischaemic aetiology on their CMR were at higher risk of death than women >60 years (p=0.003).

Conclusions

There is no difference in all-cause mortality between sexes in patients presenting with ACS and non-obstructive coronary arteries but increasing age is an important predictor of mortality in both sexes.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Sex differences in CMR diagnosisSex, age and mortality
Massive open online learning in basic life support and automated external defibrillation: an efficient way to improve confidence and readiness of lay people to provide help
Authors: Birkun A , Dantanarayana V
Published: October 2021

Background

Education of lay people in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is recognised as an important contributor to increased survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Nowadays, due to the increased risk of COVID-19, it is recommended to withhold traditional face-to-face training in CPR [1]. Whereas Internet-based distance learning is suggested as a suitable alternative to instructor-led training, little is currently known about the effectiveness of the online learning in resuscitation.

Purpose

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of self-learning in basic life support (BLS) and automated external defibrillation (AED) utilising a massive open online course (MOOC) on lay people's self-confidence and willingness to provide help.

Methods

Lay trainees of the brief (approximately one hour long) theoretical self-paced Russian-language MOOC in BLS/AED were inquired to rate their knowledge of resuscitation and readiness to attempt CPR on a stranger both in the beginning and after completion of the course based on a five-point rating scale. A retrospective analysis of data obtained for one year (July 2018 – July 2019) was conducted.

Results

During the studied period, 11,924 persons joined the MOOC, and 3,445 (29%) trainees have finished the course. Of those who completed the course, 42% had some form of previous training in resuscitation, 45% were males; median age – 23 years. When compared to the pre-training levels, after mastering the course material the average levels of self-perceived knowledge and readiness to attempt CPR on a stranger improved significantly (p<0.001): from 2.2 points to 4.0 points, and from 3.3 points to 4.2 points, respectively. After the training, the proportion of people who expressed a high level of willingness to give CPR (4–5 points) was almost two times higher than at baseline (81% vs. 44%; p<0.001). Completion of the course curriculum and higher levels of self-confidence and readiness to provide CPR were strongly associated with previous resuscitation training (p<0.001).

Conclusions

To the best of the authors' knowledge, no previous study has investigated and demonstrated the motivating effect of online learning in CPR. This study suggests that the free-of-charge massive online course in BLS/AED represent an effective tool for increasing coverage of the population with resuscitation training, improving self-confidence of potential rescuers and their willingness to provide the life-saving help. The distant theoretical training provides an important way to enhance and support laypeople's motivation to attempt CPR during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research could be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the Internet-based massive self-directed learning supplemented with synchronous or asynchronous hands-on practice.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Smoky heart: cardiovascular manifestations of carbon monoxide poisoning
Authors: Butt N , Chaus A , Ratnani P , Stewart A
Published: October 2021

Background

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is one of the most critical health concerns worldwide due to severe clinical effects with high morbidity and mortality. Tissue hypoxia and cellular damage from CO poisoning results in oxidative stress. Organs and tissues with high O2 demand including central nervous system (CNS) and cardiovascular (CV) system are the most susceptible to this oxidative stress. We investigate and describe the cardiovascular manifestations in 350 patients who were admitted for moderate to severe CO poisoning and treated with hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy.

Purpose

This study was conducted to identify the common cardiovascular manifestations of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data on 350 consecutive adult patients treated for CO poisoning between January 2011 to April 2018. Cardiac biomarkers, EKG and carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels were obtained from pre-hospital sources including EMS (emergency medical services) and from outside hospital records at the time of transfer. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) measurements were obtained at initial pre-hospital evaluation and upon arrival to the emergency room. Patient demographics, CV, CNS history and cardiac risk factors including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking history were obtained from electronic medical record. Myocardial injury was defined by cardiac troponin I level of ≥0.05 ng/mL.

Results

There were 350 patients admitted for CO poisoning from 2011 to 2018. 72% of the patients received HBO treatment due to severity of their symptoms. The mean age was 47.3 years with 60% men, 89% of the admissions were accidental exposure. Cardiac biomarkers were elevated in 40% of the patients and with 21% having sinus tachycardia. 6% had ischemic EKG changes with 23% having regional wall motion abnormalities on echocardiogram. In terms of intervention, 83% of the patients with elevated cardiac biomarkers received HBO treatment, 9% underwent coronary angiogram out of which 50% were candidate for either percutaneous intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). In hospital mortality amongst this population was 2%.

Conclusion

Myocardial injury is common and widely seen with CO poisoning as seen by elevated cardiac biomarkers in 40% of the tested population. Initial work up for patients with CO poisoning should include evaluation with an EKG and serial biomarkers. If an abnormality is detected, patient should undergo an echocardiogram. Further evaluation with coronary angiography may be warranted in patients with new left ventricular dysfunction or wall motion abnormalities, especially in patients with risk factors.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Mobile versus fixed automated external defibrillators (AED deployment in a geographically dispersed population: analysis of the girona territori cardioprotegit project
Authors: Llongueras Espi P , Pons Monne M , Salvans Cirera M , Graterol Torres F , Singh M , Ramos Polo R , Vinas Fernandez D , Kassem Perez H , Pascual Mayans J , Badosa Gali E , Nunez Torras M , Aboal Vinas J , Loma-Osorio Ricon P , Brugada Tarradellas R
Published: October 2021

Introduction/Aim

Public defibrillation doubles out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival. However, the best way to provide public defibrillation coverage to geographically dispersed populations remains unknown. The aim of this study is to compare usage rates and effectivity between mobile versus fixed Automated External Defibrillators (AED).

Methods

This project is a prospective registry of the usage rate of public AED (542 fixed AED, 241 mobile AED) and the analysis of the electrocardiographic traces, from June 2011 until December 2019. We compared the usage rate, the proportion of shockable rhythms and defibrillation success between fixed versus mobile AED.

Results

Of 566 registered usages, we obtained 494 electrocardiographic traces, of which 108 (21%) were from fixed AED. The usage rate of fixed and mobile AED were 0.022use/AED-year and 0.177use/AED-year respectively. In Fixed AED group we observed a higher proportion of shockable rhythms (34.2% vs. 20.3%, p=0,01) and higher defibrillation success (79% vs. 63%, p=0,02). The proportion of patients with shockable rhythms who were transferred to a hospital were 62.1% and 50% in Fixed AED and Mobile AED group respectively (p=0,306).

Conclusions

In Fixed AED group we observed more shockable rhythms and higher defibrillation success rates. Mobile AED were 8 times more used.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest – an insight from multi-centre data
Authors: Mughal M , Kaur I , Waxman S , Gandhi H , Kakadia M , Khakwani Z , Okoh A , Shah K , Obaid A , Sirpal V , Azad S , Jaffery A , Jagdey H , Tawfik I , Alam M
Published: October 2021

Background

In general, rates of in-hospital cardiac arrest are reportedly 9 to 10 arrests per 1000 admissions, with survival rates of approximately 20–25%. Data regarding clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with COVID-19 who received in-hospital CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) are limited. This information can help guide end-of-life care conversations between families and health care workers based on real-world experience.

Purpose

To observe the outcomes (survival to discharged alive from the hospital) in critically sick COVID-19 patients who experienced in-hospital cardiac arrest.

Methods

This is a multi-centre institutional review board (IRB) approved retrospective study. The RT-PCR confirmed adult COVID-19 patients consecutively admitted from March 1st to April 30, 2020, were included. Data were extracted manually using the hospital's electronic medical record. The final date of follow-up to monitor clinical outcomes was January 2021.

Results

A total of 721 patients were admitted to the hospital. Of these, only 64 (8.87%) patients had “no CPR” orders.Cardiac arrest occurred in 141 (19.5%) patients. The mean duration of beginning of resuscitation was less than a minute and the mean duration of CPR was 19 minutes. The median age was 65 years; 62.4% were male. The most common co-morbidities were hypertension (66%) and diabetes mellitus (56%). The initial rhythm was non-shockable in 93.7% of patients [asystole in 48.4% and Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) in 45.3% of patients]. Only six (4.2%) patients had pulseless ventricular tachycardia and three (2.1%) patients had ventricular fibrillation. A total of eight patients (5.6%) survived and were discharged from the hospital; six (4.25%) had non-shockable and two (0.82%) had shockable initial rhythms. The median age of those who survived was 60 years (Figure 1).

Conclusions

Our study showed that critically sick patients with COVID-19 have a high rate of cardiac arrest and poor outcomes in those who received CPR. A non-shockable initial rhythm indicates that non-cardiac reasons might be playing a major role. These include acute respiratory insufficiency, severe sepsis, or multiorgan failure. These data should inform end-of-life care discussions between providers and patients' families.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.