bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent population differentiation in the habitat specialist Glossy Antshrike (Aves: Thamnophilidae) across Amazonian seasonally flooded forests
Authors: Silva Sofia Marques , Ribas Camila C. , Aleixo Alexandre
Published: July 2021

We assessed population structure and the spatio‐temporal pattern of diversification in the Glossy Antshrike Sakesphorus luctuosus (Aves, Thamnophilidae) to understand the processes shaping the evolutionary history of Amazonian floodplains and address unresolved taxonomic controversies surrounding its species limits. By targeting ultraconserved elements (UCEs) from 32 specimens of S. luctuosus, we identified independent lineages and estimated their differentiation, divergence times, and migration rates. We also estimated current and past demographic histories for each recovered lineage. We found evidence confirming that S. luctuosus consists of a single species, comprising at least four populations, with some highly admixed individuals and overall similar levels of migration between populations. We confirmed the differentiation of the Araguaia River basin population (S. l. araguayae) and gathered circumstantial evidence indicating that the taxon S. hagmanni may represent a highly introgressed population between three distinct phylogroups of S. luctuosus. Divergences between populations occurred during the last 1.2 mya. Signs of population expansions were detected for populations attributed to subspecies S. l. luctuosus, but not for the S. l. araguayae population. Our results support that S. luctuosus has had a complex population history, resulting from a high dependence on southeastern “clear water” seasonally flooded habitats and their availability through time. Spatial and demographic expansions toward the western “white water” flooded forests might be related to recent changes in connectivity and availability of these habitats. Our study reinforces the view that isolation due to absence of suitable habitat has been an important driver of population differentiation within Amazonian flooded forests, but also that differences between várzeas (“white water” floodplains, mostly in southwestern Amazonia) and igapós (“clear water” floodplains, especially located in the east) should be further explored as drivers of micro‐evolution for terrestrial species.
An In(III)‐Based Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Compound (C3H7NH3)3[InCl5(H2O)]Cl with Dielectric Response Behavior Derived from Order‐Disorder Changes of n‐Propylammonium Cations
Authors: Zhang Yin‐Qiang , Li Min , Xu Guan‐Cheng
Published: July 2021

A new organic‐inorganic hybrid compound (C3H7NH3)3[InCl5(H2O)]Cl (1; C3H7NH3+ is n‐propylammonium), which exhibits a structural phase transition, has been successfully synthesized. The structural phase transition at Tc=188.9 K upon heating has been evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurement. X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction analysis reveals that the structural phase transition is driven by order‐disorder changes of n‐propylammonium cations. And a gentle slope like dielectric anomaly is discovered in the vicinity of the Tc. This work will be helpful to explore the new In‐based phase transition materials.
Lower‐Rim‐Modified Calix[4]arene‐Pyrrolotetrathiafulvalene Molecular Tweezers
Authors: Schlüter Dirk , Korsching Kai R. , Azov Vladimir A.
Published: July 2021

An approach for the lower rim modification of the calix[4]arene‐based molecular tweezes with monopyrrolo‐tetrathiafulvalene (MPTTF) arms attached to the upper rim of calixarenes is described. First, calixarene‐MPTTF conjugates with free hydroxyl on the lower rim are synthesized using the Ullmann reaction, then hydroxyl groups are substituted by propargyl groups, which can be used for further modification by the click reaction. The new calixarene‐TTF derivatives displayed reversible redox processes, as well as demonstrated binding affinity for electron‐deficient molecular guests such as tetracyanoquinodimethane. The described synthetic approach will be used for the modular synthesis of molecular receptors tailored for specific applications.
A comprehensive review of energy blockchain: Application scenarios and development trends
Authors: Teng Fei , Zhang Qi , Wang Ge , Liu Jiangfeng , Li Hailong
Published: July 2021

The disruptive nature of blockchain technology has drawn considerable interest from different types of stakeholders. It is adopted in numerous sectors with the ability to openly and securely verify, track, and exchange data. The energy blockchain, a term used when blockchain technology is applied in the energy sector, is considered as having the potential to develop a decentralized, digitized, and decarbonized energy management system. The article presents an overview of the development progress from three perspectives, including academic research, the deployment of companies and pilot projects, and government support policies. Then a different taxonomy is developed to demonstrate and highlighted the different applications. Finally, the future trends and challenges hindering the effective implementation of energy blockchain are discussed. The results show that energy blockchain is an effective innovation technology to accelerate the transformation of global energy structure. Multinational cooperation and government‐leading are the basis of large‐scale deployment of energy blockchain. The improvement of regulatory mechanisms and standards is the key to the commercial application of energy blockchain. This study is a comprehensive analysis of energy blockchain applications, which is expected to support decision making for its future development.
Dandelion sterol improves diabetes mellitus–induced renal injury in in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Tian Lin , Fu Peng , Zhou Min , Qi Jiping
Published: July 2021

The purpose of our research was to evaluate Dandelion sterol's treatment effects on diabetes mellitus–induced renal injury in in vitro and in vivo study. The rats were divided into five groups as normal control (Ctrl), diabetic nephropathy model (Model), Dandelion sterol low‐dose treated (Dan‐Low), Dandelion sterol middle‐dose treated (Dan‐Middle), and Dandelion sterol high‐dose treated (Dan‐High). Measuring serum TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 concentrations by Elisa assay, evaluate kidney pathology by HE staining, kidney cell apoptosis of TUNEL, TLR4, and NF‐κB(p65) proteins expression by IHC assay, and relative gene expressions by RT‐qPCR assay. In the following step, using HK‐2 treated with high glucose to model DN cell model to discuss the relative mechanisms, evaluate TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 concentrations by Elisa assay, evaluate cell apoptosis by flow cytometry, evaluate TLR4 and NF‐κB(p65) proteins expression by WB assay, relative gene expression by RT‐qPCR assay, and NF‐κB(p65) nuclear volume by cellular immunofluorescence. Compared with Ctrl group, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 concentrations and apoptosis cell number were significantly increased, TLR4/NF‐κB(p65) pathway was significantly stimulated in Model rats and cell groups. With Dan supplement, the diabetic‐induced renal injury was significantly improved (p < .05, respectively). By cell experiment, Dan improved cell apoptosis and inflammatory factors via miR‐140‐5p. Dan improved diabetes mellitus–induced renal injury via regulation of miR‐140‐5p/TLR4 axis in in vitro and in vivo study.
Usefulness of Cell‐Free Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Mutant DNA Quantification in Blood for Predicting Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment Efficacy
Authors: Muraoka Masaru , Maekawa Shinya , Katoh Ryo , Komiyama Yasuyuki , Nakakuki Natsuko , Takada Hitomi , Matsuda Shuya , Suzuki Yuichiro , Sato Mitsuaki , Tatsumi Akihisa , Miura Mika , Amemiya Fumitake , Shindo Hiroko , Takano Shinichi , Fukasawa Mitsuharu , Yamauchi Kozue , Yamaguchi Tatsuya , Nakayama Yasuhiro , Inoue Taisuke , Enomoto Nobuyuki
Published: July 2021

Although the usefulness of liquid biopsy as a biomarker in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been suggested, its usefulness in transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) or tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapies has not been reported in detail. In this study, we investigated the clinical value of a cell‐free (cf)DNA quantification system targeting the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) promoter mutation in advanced HCC treatment. Plasma from 67 patients with advanced HCC, treated with TACE and TKI, was used for extraction of cfDNA. We defined cfDNA with the hTERT promoter C228T mutation as circulating mutant DNA (mutant DNA) and without the mutation as circulating wild‐type DNA (wild‐type DNA). We analyzed the changes in mutant and wild‐type DNA levels during HCC treatment and examined the relationship between changes in the cfDNA level and the clinical course. Mutant DNA was detected in 73.1% (49/67) of the patients during HCC treatment. In univariate analysis, factors associated with detection of mutant DNA before treatment were the intrahepatic maximum tumor diameter (P = 0.015) and protein induced by vitamin K absence (PIVKAII) (P = 0.006). The degree of mutant DNA change after TACE was significantly correlated with tumor volume (P < 0.001), reflecting the treated tumor volume. Responders with peak cfDNA levels within 1 week of TKI initiation had significantly better progression‐free survival than nonresponders (P = 0.004). Conclusion: Changes in blood hTERT promoter mutant DNA levels during TACE or TKI treatment indirectly reflect the amount of HCCs and are useful for predicting long‐term treatment responses.
Impact of a pharmacist‐to‐dose direct oral anticoagulant protocol on medication errors at an academic medical center
Authors: Willeford Andrew , Leiman Victoria , Noel Zachary R.
Published: July 2021

Background

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are considered high‐risk medications and pose a serious threat to patients if mismanaged. Furthermore, medication error rates involving DOACs in the acute care setting range from 25% to 40%. To reduce medication error rates at our institution, we implemented a pharmacist‐driven DOAC protocol that permitted pharmacists to independently order and monitor DOACs pursuant to a consult order.

Objective

To determine the impact of a pharmacist‐to‐dose DOAC protocol on medication errors at an academic medical center.

Methods

This was a retrospective, single‐center cohort study using a pre‐post design to evaluate the impact of a pharmacist‐to‐dose DOAC protocol on rates of medication errors. Patient data were evaluated during a 6‐month period before and after the implementation of the protocol. Patients were excluded if they were receiving a DOAC for an indication other than venous thromboembolism and/or atrial fibrillation.

Results

A total of 502 patients (pre‐phase = 256; post‐phase = 246) admitted to the hospital and receiving a DOAC were included in the study. A total of 41 patients in the pre‐phase received a medication error involving a DOAC compared with 22 patients in the post‐phase (16% vs 8.9%; relative risk reduction 44%; P = .017). Rates of near misses were numerically higher in the post‐phase group (7.4% vs 11.8%; P = .1), and rates of discharge DOAC errors were numerically lower (8.5% vs 4.9%; P = .1). The most common error was underdosing (N = 31).

Conclusion

In this study, the implementation of a pharmacist‐to‐dose DOAC protocol was associated with a 44% reduction in DOAC‐related medication errors. These findings underscore the impact of a protocolized approach to DOAC management, as well as the role of pharmacists in overseeing inpatient DOAC use and reducing medication errors.
Estradiol exerts a neuroprotective effect on SH‐SY5Y cells through the miR‐106b‐5p/TXNIP axis
Authors: Pan Qiong , Guo Ke , Xue Min , Tu Qiuyun
Published: July 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease. Thioredoxin and thioredoxin‐interacting protein (TXNIP) complexes help sustain cell oxidation/reduction balance. In the present study, we verified the neuroprotective role of estradiol against amyloid‐beta 42 in SH‐SY5Y cells through inhibiting TXNIP expression, promoting cell viability and DNA synthesis ability, inhibiting cell apoptosis, and affecting caspase and Bax/Bcl‐2 apoptotic signaling. miR‐106b‐5p could bind to TXNIP 3′‐untranslated region to inhibit the expression level of TXNIP. Within SH‐SY5Y cells, miR‐106b‐5p inhibition repressed cell viability and DNA synthesis ability and promoted cell apoptosis through caspase and Bax/Bcl‐2 apoptotic signaling, while miR‐106b‐5p overexpression or TXNIP knockdown exerted the opposite effects on SH‐SY5Y cells; TXNIP knockdown remarkably attenuated the roles of miR‐106b‐5p inhibition. In conclusion, estradiol treatment on SH‐SY5Y cells downregulates TXNIP expression and upregulates miR‐106b‐5p expression. miR‐106b‐5p exerts a neuroprotective effect on SH‐SY5Y cells by promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting cell apoptosis through targeting TXNIP.
Gender differences in African Americans' reactions to and coping with discrimination: Results from The National Study of American Life
Authors: Sullivan Jas M. , Harman Moriah , Sullivan Samaah
Published: July 2021

The aim of this paper is to examine coping behaviors in the context of discrimination and possible gender‐specific differences among a national sample of African American adults in the 2001–2003 National Survey of American Life (NSAL). Results show that in multivariable logistic regression models, African American women (vs. African American men) were less likely to accept discrimination as a fact of life but were more likely to get mad about experiences of discrimination, pray about it, and talk to someone. After adjusting for differences in the frequency of discrimination, African American women were also significantly more likely to try to do something about it. African American men were more likely to accept discrimination as a fact of life with higher frequency of day‐to‐day discrimination while women tended to talk to someone with a higher frequency of day‐to‐day discrimination and lifetime discrimination. These findings suggest gender differences in behavior concerning discrimination.
Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate stimulates StAR expression and progesterone production in human granulosa cells through the 67‐kDa laminin receptor‐mediated CREB signaling pathway
Authors: Fang Lanlan , Guo Yanjie , Li Yiran , Jia Qiongqiong , Han Xiaoyu , Liu Boqun , Chen Jiaye , Cheng Jung‐Chien , Sun Ying‐Pu
Published: July 2021

Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant and biologically active catechins extracted from green tea. The health benefits of EGCG have been extendedly studied. Ovarian steroidogenesis plays a pivotal role in maintaining normal reproductive function. Granulosa cells in the ovary are essential for steroid hormone production. To date, the effect of EGCG on steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells remains unclear. In the present study, we examine the physiological concentrations of EGCG on steroidogenesis in a steroidogenic human granulosa‐like tumor cell line, KGN. Our results demonstrate that treatment with EGCG upregulates steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression and increases progesterone (P4) production. EGCG does not affect the expression levels of other steroidogenesis‐related enzymes, such as P450 side‐chain cleavage enzyme, 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and aromatase. In addition, we identify the expression of 67‐kDa laminin receptor (67LR) in KGN cells. Moreover, EGCG‐induced StAR expression and P4 production require the 67LR‐mediated activation of the PKA‐CREB signaling pathway. These results provide a better understanding of the function of EGCG on ovarian steroidogenesis, which may lead to the development of alternative therapeutic approaches for reproductive disorders.
Evaluating the antibacterial effect of synthesized herbal toothpastes and their efficacy for dentine tubule occlusion: Scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis
Authors: Peyro Mousavi Seyedeh Fatemeh , Ganjovi Alireza , Eskandarizadeh Ali , Saidi Ali Reza , Isaei Elham
Published: July 2021

The tubule occlusion of two newly developed herbal toothpastes was examined. They were prepared based on the mixture of pomegranate peel and Equisetum arvense extracts with strontium acetate. The antimicrobial activity of pomegranate peel and E. arvense were determined using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Then, 30 mid‐coronal dentin discs from the human third molars were etched for 30 s with the lemon juice (pH = 2.4). The specimens divided into the three groups. While the control group had 6 specimens, Groups 1 and 2 were including 12 specimens. Group 1 brushed with toothpaste containing 10% strontium acetate and 5% hydroalcoholic extracts of pomegranate peel, and Group 2 brushed with 5% strontium acetate, 5% hydroalcoholic extracts of E. arvense, and 5% hydroalcoholic extracts of pomegranate peel. Brushing was simulated for 6 months with 2 N loading. Then, 50% of discs in each group were immersed in lemon juice for 1 min. Moreover, specimens in control group were brushed with distilled water. Finally, all 30 discs were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDXS). The occluded dentin tubules were counted and statistically evaluated. It was found that the number of open dentin tubules decreases significantly after brushing with both tested toothpastes compared with control group (p < .001). Moreover, a significant difference was observed between two toothpastes before and after acid immersion process (p < .001). The SEM micrographs confirmed the dentin tubule occlusion of both herbal dentifrices. Besides, EDXS analysis approved the strontium and silica presence on the dentin tubules for the toothpaste which was based on E. arvense.
Effective three‐dimensional culture of hepatocyte‐like cells generated from human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Saito Yu , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Tokuda Kazunori , Miyazaki Katsuki , Yamada Shinichiro , Imura Satoru , Miyake Masato , Morine Yuji , Oyadomari Seiichi , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: July 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to clarify the effectiveness of a new three‐dimensional (3D) culture system for hepatocyte‐like cells (HLCs) generated from human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs).

Methods

Human ADSCs (2 × 104) with or without 0.1 mg/mL human recombinant peptide μ‐piece per well were seeded in a 96‐well U‐bottom plate and then our three‐step differentiation protocol was applied for 21 days. At each step, cell morphology and gene expression were investigated. Mature hepatocyte functions were evaluated after HLC differentiation. These parameters were compared between 2D‐ and 3D‐cultured HLCs, and, DNA microarray analysis was also performed. Finally, HLCs were transplanted in to CCl4 induced acute liver failure model mice.

Results

Two‐dimensional‐cultured HLCs at day 21 did not have a spindle shape and had formed spheroids after day 6, which gradually increased in size for 3D‐cultured HLCs. Definitive endoderm, hepatoblast, and hepatocyte genes showed significantly higher expression in the 3D culture group. Three‐dimensional‐cultured HLCs also had higher albumin expression, CYP3A4 activity, urea synthesis, and ammonium metabolism, and much higher expression of ion transporter, blood coagulation, and cell communication genes. HLC transplantation improved serum liver function, especially in T‐Bil levels, and engrafted into immunodeficient mice with HLA class I positive staining.

Conclusion

Our new 3D culture protocol is effective to improve hepatocyte functions. Our HLCs might be promising for clinical cell transplantation to treat metabolic disease.
Surgical navigation for challenging recurrent or pretreated intra‐abdominal and pelvic soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Reijers Sophie J. M. , Heerink Wouter J. , Van Veen Ruben , Nijkamp Jasper , Hoetjes Nikie J. , Schrage Yvonne , Van Akkooi Alexander , Beets Geerard L. , Van Coevorden Frits , Ruers Theo J. M. , Groen Harald C. , Van Houdt Winan J.
Published: July 2021

Background

This study assessed whether electromagnetic navigation can be of added value during resection of recurrent or post‐therapy intra‐abdominal/pelvic soft tissue sarcomas (STS) in challenging locations.

Materials and Methods

Patients were included in a prospective navigation study. A pre‐operatively 3D roadmap was made and tracked using electromagnetic reference markers. During the operation, an electromagnetic pointer was used for the localization of the tumor/critical anatomical structures. The primary endpoint was feasibility, secondary outcomes were safety and usability.

Results

Nine patients with a total of 12 tumors were included, 7 patients with locally recurrent sarcoma. Three patients received neoadjuvant radiotherapy and three other patients received neoadjuvant systemic treatment. The median tumor size was 4.6 cm (2.4–10.4). The majority of distances from tumor to critical anatomical structures was <0.5 cm. The tumors were localized using the navigation system without technical or safety issues. Despite the challenging nature of these resections, 89% were R0 resections, with a median blood loss of 100 ml (20–1050) and one incident of vascular damage. Based on the survey, surgeons stated navigation resulted in shorter surgery time and made the resections easier.

Conclusion

Electromagnetic navigation facilitates resections of challenging lower intra‐abdominal/pelvic STS and might be of added value.
Topological Alterations in White Matter Structural Networks in Blepharospasm
Authors: Guo Yaomin , Peng Kangqiang , Liu Ying , Zhong Linchang , Dang Chao , Yan Zhicong , Wang Ying , Zeng Jinsheng , Zhang Weixi , Ou Zilin , Liu Gang
Published: July 2021

Background

Accumulating evidence indicates regional structural changes in the white matter (WM) of brains in patients with blepharospasm (BSP); however, whether large‐scale WM structural networks undergo widespread reorganization in these patients remains unclear.

Objective

We investigated topology changes and global and local features of large‐scale WM structural networks in BSP patients compared with hemifacial spasm (HFS) patients or healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study applied graph theoretical analysis to assess deterministic diffusion tensor tractography findings in 41 BSP patients, 41 HFS patients, and 41 HCs. WM structural connectivity in 246 cortical and subcortical regions was assessed, and topological parameters of the resulting graphs were calculated. Networks were compared among BSP, HFS, and HCs groups.

Results

Compared to HCs, both BSP and HFS patients showed alterations in network integration and segregation characterized by increased global efficiency and modularity and reduced shortest path length. Moreover, increased nodal efficiency in multiple cortical and subcortical regions was found in BSP and HFS patients compared with HCs. However, these differences were not found between BSP and HFS patients. Whereas all participants showed highly similar hub distribution patterns, BSP patients had additional hub regions not present in either HFS patients or HCs, which were located in the primary head and face motor cortex and basal ganglia.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the large‐scale WM structural network undergoes an extensive reorganization in BSP, probably due to both dystonia‐specific abnormalities and facial hyperkinetic movements. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A novel mutation in COL3A1 associates to vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome with predominant musculoskeletal involvement
Authors: Ruscitti Federica , Trevisan Lucia , Rosti Giulia , Gotta Fabio , Cianflone Annalia , Geroldi Alessandro , Origone Paola , Pichiecchio Anna , Viglio Simona , Iascone Maria , Mandich Paola
Published: July 2021

Background

Vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is a heritable connective tissue disorder caused by defects in the type III collagen protein. It is generally considered the most severe form of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) due to an increased risk of spontaneous artery or organ rupture. vEDS has an extremely heterogeneous presentation and muscle rupture is considered a minor diagnostic criterium.

Methods

A patient with a long history of inconclusive examinations and investigations was referred to our unit. The clinical picture was mainly characterized by muscle ruptures, whereas the cardiovascular involvement was limited to mitral regurgitation. We performed a panel analysis of genes associated with inheritable heart diseases using the TruSight Cardio kit (Illumina). A skin biopsy was then performed for functional studies to analyze the different forms of collagen molecules produced in vitro by cutaneous fibroblasts.

Results

The patient presented the novel variant c.3478A>G (p.Ile1160Val) in COL3A1 (NM_000090.3), whose pathogenicity was supported by biochemical analysis of type III collagen.

Conclusion

In this report, we describe a case of vEDS with predominant and severe musculoskeletal involvement. Our findings provide insight into genetic variants and clinical expression of vEDS, broadening the clinical scenario of the syndrome.
Activation of cAMP‐dependent phosphorylation pathways is independent of ROS production during mouse sperm capacitation
Authors: Takei Gen L. , Tourzani Darya A. , Paudel Bidur , Visconti Pablo E.
Published: July 2021

Mammalian sperm have to undergo capacitation to fertilize the egg. At the molecular level, capacitation involves cAMP synthesis, protein kinase A activation, and downstream increase in tyrosine phosphorylation. In addition, during capacitation, mammalian sperm actively generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). It has been proposed that ROS modulate phosphorylation pathways; however, the crosstalk between these signaling processes is not well‐understood. In the present study, we used loss‐ and gain‐of‐function approaches to evaluate the interconnection between ROS and phosphorylation. We showed that BSA and HCO3−, but not Ca2+, in the capacitation media are required for ROS production. The synergic effect of these compounds was neither mediated by HCO3− stimulation of cAMP synthesis nor by BSA‐induced cholesterol efflux. The capacitation‐induced ROS generation was blocked in the presence of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and apocynin. However, none of these compounds affected cAMP‐dependent or tyrosine phosphorylation. On the other hand, the addition of NADPH to the media induced ROS generation in sperm incubated in the absence of BSA and HCO3− without upregulating cAMP‐dependent or tyrosine phosphorylation signaling. Most interestingly, catalase, but not SOD, blocked in vitro fertilization suggesting a role for H2O2 in this process.
In vivo evidence of differential frontal cortex metabolic abnormalities in progressive and relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Swanberg Kelley M. , Prinsen Hetty , DeStefano Katherine , Bailey Mary , Kurada Abhinav V. , Pitt David , Fulbright Robert K. , Juchem Christoph
Published: July 2021

The pathophysiology of progressive multiple sclerosis remains elusive, significantly limiting available disease‐modifying therapies. Proton MRS (1H‐MRS) enables in vivo measurement of small molecules implicated in multiple sclerosis, but its application to key metabolites glutamate, γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), and glutathione has been sparse. We employed, at 7 T, a previously validated1H‐MRS protocol to measure glutamate, GABA, and glutathione, as well as glutamine,N‐acetyl aspartate, choline, and myoinositol, in the frontal cortex of individuals with relapsing‐remitting (N = 26) or progressive (N = 21) multiple sclerosis or healthy control adults (N = 25) in a cross‐sectional analysis. Only individuals with progressive multiple sclerosis demonstrated reduced glutamate (F2,65 = 3.424,p = 0.04; 12.40 ± 0.62 mM versus control 13.17 ± 0.95 mM,p = 0.03) but not glutamine (F2,65 = 0.352,p = 0.7; 4.71 ± 0.35 mM versus control 4.84 ± 0.42 mM), reduced GABA (F2,65 = 3.89,p = 0.03; 1.29 ± 0.23 mM versus control 1.47 ± 0.25 mM,p = 0.05), and possibly reduced glutathione (F2,65 = 0.352,p = 0.056; 2.23 ± 0.46 mM versus control 2.51 ± 0.48 mM,p < 0.1). As a group, multiple sclerosis patients demonstrated significant negative correlations between disease duration and glutamate or GABA (ρ = −0.4,p = 0.02) but not glutamine or glutathione. Alone, only relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis patients exhibited a significant negative correlation between disease duration and GABA (ρ = −0.5,p = 0.03). Taken together, these results indicate that frontal cortex metabolism is differentially disturbed in progressive and relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis.
Predictors of short‐term outcomes of burn in a newly established burn centre in Iran
Authors: Jafaryparvar Zakiyeh , Adib Masoomeh , Ghanbari Atefeh , Ali Yazdanipour Mohammad
Published: July 2021

Aim

This study aimed to determine the predictors of hospital stay and mortality in patients with burns.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional, retrospective study.

Methods

This study was performed on 626 medical records in Velayat Subspecialty Burn and Plastic Surgery Center in Rasht, Iran, during 2008–2013.

Results

Men comprised 78.4% of the study population. Overall, 50.2% of the participants lived in rural areas, and 72.5% were married. The majority of burns occurred at home (49.5%), and thermal factor (87.4%) was the major cause of burn injuries. Also, 6.9% of the patients died after burns. The mean length of hospital stay was 12.62 ± 13 days. Age (OR = 1.07), total body surface area (TBSA%) (OR = 1.12) and length of ICU stay (OR = 1.06) were the strongest predictors of mortality. Gender (IRR = 0.85), TBSA% (IRR = 1.01), location of burn (IRR = 1.1), skin graft (IRR = 2.12), length of ICU stay (IRR = 1.04), re‐hospitalization (IRR = 1.77) and burn degree (IRR = 1.09) were the predictors of the length of hospital stay.

Conclusion

BSA is still an important predictor of mortality and length of hospital stay, as the most important short‐term outcomes of burns.
Heat loss coefficients computed for floating PV modules
Authors: Lindholm Dag , Kjeldstad Torunn , Selj Josefine , Marstein Erik Stensrud , Fjær Hallvard Gustav
Published: July 2021

For floating PV (FPV), the operating temperature of the PV modules has been a major source of uncertainty. As the operating temperature of PV modules affects their efficiency, knowledge of this parameter is critical in order to perform accurate energy yield assessment (EYA). This uncertainty is reflected in the scientific literature but has also hampered the bankability and realization of commercial FPV projects. Our work proposes a model that computes both the efficiency of heat loss to the environment for a given FPV technology and the operational cell temperature, needed to compute the module efficiency. The suggested model is applicable to different FPV technologies. We show that PV modules that are not in direct thermal contact with water have similar heat loss behavior as land‐based PV. We thereafter investigate a specific technology in which the modules are mounted on a membrane resting directly on the water body. The model is validated against actual production and weather data from deployed FPV systems. Our results show that the water temperature impacts both FPV technologies, however to a smaller degree for the air‐cooled system, where the wind is of greater influence. When in direct thermal contact with water, the water body provides superior cooling, and the resulting U‐value of about 86.5 W/m2K is significantly larger than typical values reported for land‐based modules.
Energetic Derivatives of Nitroguanidine – Synthesis and Properties
Authors: Gratzke Mateusz , Cudziło Stanisław
Published: July 2021

Nitroguanidine is an individual explosive with an established reputation. It is widely used as a component of gunpowder, rocket propellants, and high explosives. Less known and appreciated, however, is its importance as a substrate in the synthesis of other explosive compounds with even better properties. In this work available information on synthetic methods, structure, and properties of compounds containing the nitroguanidine moiety was collected and analyzed. The most attention was paid to compounds that have already found practical applications and those with unique properties (high‐performance, low‐sensitivity), as well as compounds that can be further functionalized with energetic functional groups. The results of our literature search indicate that the nitroguanidine moiety should be treated as a particularly interesting building block from the point of view of the synthesis of new high‐energy compounds.
Rates and trends in stage‐specific prostate cancer incidence by age and race/ethnicity, 2000–2017
Authors: Cao Yubo , Zhang Wei , Li Yue , Fu Jia , Li Hongyuan , Li Xiulin , Gao Xue , Zhang Kaiyu , Liu Sa
Published: July 2021

Background

The 2008 and 2012 United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations against prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screening have led to changes in the incidence pattern of prostate cancer. We sought to examine rates and trends in stage‐specific prostate cancer incidence by age and race/ethnicity using the most recent data obtained from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program.

Methods

SEER*Stat version 8.3.6 was used to analyze annual prostate cancer incidence rates between 2000 and 2017 according to the SEER summary stage, age group, and race/ethnicity group. Incidence rates per 100,000 men were calculated and age‐adjusted to 2000 US standard population. Annual percentage change (APC) was performed to identify the trend in prostate cancer incidence.

Results

Between 2008 and 2012, trends in incidence of overall and localized prostate cancer significantly declined in comparison with between 2000 and 2007 (APC, −5.4 and −6.0, respectively). However, there was an increase in the incidence rate of both overall and localized prostate cancer from 2014 to 2017 (43.3–46 and 34–34.9 per 100,000 men, respectively). The incidence of regional prostate cancer significantly increased between 2013 and 2017 (5.9–6.8 per 100,000 men; APC, 4.3). Distant disease incidence increased continually between 2008 and 2012 (2.9–3.3 per 100,000 men; APC, 2.3) and between 2013 and 2017 (3.4–4.3 per 100,000 men; APC, 6.0). In addition, these increases in incidence occurred in men of all stratified age and race/ethnicity groups, except for men aged <50 years and American Indian/Alaska Native men.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the longer‐term effects of USPSTF recommendations against PSA screening may have resulted in a reversal of downtrend in prostate cancer incidence, as incidence rates of overall and localized prostate cancer gradually increased from 2014 to 2017. Meanwhile, the trend in stage migration toward advanced disease increased incrementally.
4‐Methylumbelliferone treatment and hyaluronan inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for chronic prostatitis
Authors: Chen Jing , Meng Jialin , Jin Chen , Mo Fan , Ding Yang , Gao Xiaomei , Zhang Li , Zhang Meng , Liang Chaozhao
Published: July 2021

Background

Hyaluronan (HA), an extracellular matrix component, accumulates in most chronic inflammatory tissues. Here, we studied the impact of HA on the pathogenesis of chronic prostatitis.

Materials and Methods

First, we sorted demographic characteristics and peripheral blood serum samples from patients with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) to assess the relationship between the levels of HA in peripheral blood serum and the severity of inflammation in patients. Second, we induced an experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) mouse model and treated the mice with 4‐methylumbelliferone (4‐MU) (200 mg/kg/day). After the mice were sacrificed, RNA from Th1 cells of the mouse spleens was extracted for RNA sequencing. We used weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) to identify co‐expressed gene modules and hub‐gene related to the pathogenesis of EAP. The expression of critical genes associated with the identified pathway was confirmed by using western blot analysis.

Results

HA was significantly more highly expressed in CP/CPPS patients than in healthy volunteers and positively correlated with the severity of pain, urination symptoms, and quality of life. Besides, the protein expression of HA was significantly higher in prostate tissues derived from EAP models than in those derived from controls. 4‐MU, an oral inhibitor of HA synthesis, relieved immunocyte infiltration to the prostate and significantly reduced the proportion of Th1 cells. Based on the WGCNA, we identified 18 co‐expression modules and identified that the Grey60 and brown modules were positively associated with the EAP and negatively associated with the Control and 4‐MU‐treated groups. Pathway enrichment analyses and western blot assays proved that HA potentially activated the cell cycle pathway, increasing the proportion of Th1 cells promoting chronic prostatitis pathogenesis, while these processes were reversed by 4‐MU treatment.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that HA is elevated in patients with CP/CPPS compared with healthy controls and that targeting HA through 4‐MU suppresses the activity of the cell cycle‐related pathway, potentially by decreasing the proportion of Th1 cells and relieving chronic prostatitis. Our findings might inspire the clinical treatment of chronic prostatitis.
Pharmacometrics meets statistics—A synergy for modern drug development
Authors: Ryeznik Yevgen , Sverdlov Oleksandr , Svensson Elin M. , Montepiedra Grace , Hooker Andrew C. , Wong Weng Kee
Published: July 2021

Modern drug development problems are very complex and require integration of various scientific fields. Traditionally, statistical methods have been the primary tool for design and analysis of clinical trials. Increasingly, pharmacometric approaches using physiology‐based drug and disease models are applied in this context. In this paper, we show that statistics and pharmacometrics have more in common than what keeps them apart, and collectively, the synergy from these two quantitative disciplines can provide greater advances in clinical research and development, resulting in novel and more effective medicines to patients with medical need.
Adaptive event‐triggered control for a class of uncertain hyperbolic PDE‐ODE cascade systems
Authors: Li Xia , Liu Yungang , Li Jian , Li Fengzhong
Published: July 2021

This article investigates the event‐triggered stabilization for a class of hyperbolic PDE‐ODE cascade systems with nonlocal term. The presence of unknown parameters in the system brings technical challenges from design to analysis. This compels us to integrate certain powerful dynamic compensation into event‐triggering control mechanism. To solve the problem, by adaptive technique, a compensation strategy is developed to counteract the parametric uncertainties. Then, a desired event‐triggered controller is delicately designed to guarantee that all the signals in the closed‐loop system are bounded and the original system states converge to zero in the norm. Particularly, the event‐triggering mechanism with an additional dynamic signal in the threshold is devised to overcome the negative influence of execution error, while ensuring a positive lower bound for the interexecution intervals. Finally, a simulation example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Structure and Interface Modification of Carbon Dots for Electrochemical Energy Application
Authors: Cheng Ruiqi , Xiang Yinger , Guo Ruiting , Li Lin , Zou Guoqiang , Fu Chaopeng , Hou Hongshuai , Ji Xiaobo
Published: July 2021

Carbon dots (CDs) as new nanomaterials have attracted much attention in recent years due to their unique characteristics. Notably, structure and interface modification (carbon core, edge, defects, and functional groups) of CDs have been considered as valid methods to regulate their properties, which contain electron transfer effect, electrochemical activity, fluorescence luminescent, and so on. Additionally, CDs with ultrasmall size, excellent dispersibility, high specific surface area, and abundant functional groups can guarantee positive and extraordinary effects in electrical energy storage and conversion. Therefore, CDs are used to couple with other materials by constructing a special interface structure to enhance their properties. Here, diverse structural and interfacial modifications of CDs with various heteroatoms and synergy effects are systematically analyzed. And not only several main syntheses of CDs‐based composites (CDs/X) are summarized but also the merit and demerit of CDs/X in electrical energy storage are discussed. Finally, the applications of CDs/X in energy storage devices (supercapacitors, batteries) and electrocatalysts for practical applications are discussed. This review mainly provides a comprehensive summary and future prospect for synthesis, modification, and electrochemical applications of CDs.
Functionalized Masks: Powerful Materials against COVID‐19 and Future Pandemics
Authors: Seidi Farzad , Deng Chao , Zhong Yajie , Liu Yuqian , Huang Yang , Li Chengcheng , Xiao Huining
Published: July 2021

The outbreak of COVID‐19 revealed the vulnerability of commercially available face masks. Without having antibacterial/antiviral activities, the current masks act only as filtering materials of the aerosols containing microorganisms. Meanwhile, in surgical masks, the viral and bacterial filtration highly depends on the electrostatic charges of masks. These electrostatic charges disappear after 8 h, which leads to a significant decline in filtration efficiency. Therefore, to enhance the masks’ protection performance, fabrication of innovative masks with more advanced functions is in urgent demand. This review summarizes the various functionalizing agents which can endow four important functions in the masks including i) boosting the antimicrobial and self‐disinfectant characteristics via incorporating metal nanoparticles or photosensitizers, ii) increasing the self‐cleaning by inserting superhydrophobic materials such as graphenes and alkyl silanes, iii) creating photo/electrothermal properties by forming graphene and metal thin films within the masks, and iv) incorporating triboelectric nanogenerators among the friction layers of masks to stabilize the electrostatic charges and facilitating the recharging of masks. The strategies for creating these properties toward the functionalized masks are discussed in detail. The effectiveness and limitation of each method in generating the desired properties are well‐explained along with addressing the prospects for the future development of masks.
Sensitivity of subcellular components of neuromuscular junctions to decreased neuromuscular activity
Authors: Deschenes Michael R. , Trebelhorn Audrey M. , High Madeline C. , Tufts Hannah L. , Oh Jeongeun
Published: July 2021

Muscle unloading imparts subtotal disuse on the neuromuscular system resulting in reduced performance capacity. This loss of function, at least in part, can be attributed to disruptions at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). However, research has failed to document morphological remodeling of the NMJ with short term muscle unloading. Here, rather than quantifying cellular components of the NMJ, we examined subcellular active zone responses to 2 weeks of unloading in male Wistar rats. It was revealed that in the plantaris, but not the soleus muscles, unloading elicited significant (P ≤ 0.05) decrements in active zone staining as measured by Bassoon, and calcium channel expression. It was also discovered that unloading decreased the area of calcium channels staining relative to active zone areas of staining suggesting potential interference in the ability of calcium influx to trigger the release of vesicles docked at the active zone. Post‐synaptic adaptations of the motor endplate were not evident. This presynaptic subcellular size reduction was not associated with atrophy of the underlying plantaris muscle fibers, although atrophy of the weight‐bearing soleus fibers, where no subcellular remodeling was evident, was noted. These results suggest that the active zone is highly sensitive to alterations in neuromuscular activity, and that morphological adaptation of excitatory and contractile components of the NMJ can occur independently of each other.
Therapeutic potential of ubaien for refractory gastrointestinal diseases: Japanese case reports and literature review
Authors: Uneda Kazushi , Kayo Takumi , Akiba Shuichiro , Saito Ryuji , Ueno Takaharu , Suzuki Masao , Mitsuma Tadamichi
Published: July 2021

Case

Patient 1 was a 56‐year‐old woman with systemic sclerosis; her symptoms were nausea and vomiting. Patient 2 was a 63‐year‐old woman with irritable bowel syndrome; her symptoms were diarrhea and abdominal pain. Both patients had been treated with various Kampo medicines for several years. However, their symptoms and signs had not improved. On admission, we observed an objective feeling of heat on the abdominal surface of both patients, although they both reported a subjective cold feeling in their limbs.

Outcome

After the administration of ubaien, the gastrointestinal symptoms promptly began to decrease in both patients. The general condition continued to improve after hospital discharge in both cases.

Conclusion

Ubaien may be effective for treating refractory gastrointestinal disorders in patients with tangled cold and heat.
Learning molecular potentials with neural networks
Authors: Gokcan Hatice , Isayev Olexandr
Published: July 2021

The potential energy of molecular species and their conformers can be computed with a wide range of computational chemistry methods, from molecular mechanics to ab initio quantum chemistry. However, the proper choice of the computational approach based on computational cost and reliability of calculated energies is a dilemma, especially for large molecules. This dilemma is proved to be even more problematic for studies that require hundreds and thousands of calculations, such as drug discovery. On the other hand, driven by their pattern recognition capabilities, neural networks started to gain popularity in the computational chemistry community. During the last decade, many neural network potentials have been developed to predict a variety of chemical information of different systems. Neural network potentials are proved to predict chemical properties with accuracy comparable to quantum mechanical approaches but with the cost approaching molecular mechanics calculations. As a result, the development of more reliable, transferable, and extensible neural network potentials became an attractive field of study for researchers. In this review, we outlined an overview of the status of current neural network potentials and strategies to improve their accuracy. We provide recent examples of studies that prove the applicability of these potentials. We also discuss the capabilities and shortcomings of the current models and the challenges and future aspects of their development and applications. It is expected that this review would provide guidance for the development of neural network potentials and the exploitation of their applicability.

This article is categorized under:

Data Science > Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

Molecular and Statistical Mechanics > Molecular Interactions

Software > Molecular Modeling