bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lactate transport in canine red blood cells
Authors: Koho Ninna M. , Raekallio Marja , Kuusela Erja , Vuolle Jaana , Pösö A. Reeta
Published: August 2008

Objective—To detect monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) in canine RBC membranes and to determine the distribution of lactate between plasma and RBCs.

Sample population—Blood samples obtained from 6 purpose-bred Beagles.

Procedures—Monocarboxylate transporter isoforms 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, and 8 and CD147 were evaluated in canine RBCs by use of western blot analysis. Lactate influx into RBCs was measured as incorporation of radioactive lactate.

Results—2 MCT isoforms, MCT1 and MCT7, were detected in canine RBC membranes on western blot analysis, whereas anti-MCT2, anti-MCT4, anti-MCT6, and anti-MCT8 antibodies resulted in no signal. No correlation was found between the amount of MCT1 or MCT7 and lactate transport activity, but the ancillary protein CD147 that is needed for the activity of MCT1 had a positive linear correlation with the rate of lactate influx. The apparent Michaelis constant for the lactate influx in canine RBCs was 8.8 ± 0.9mM. Results of in vitro incubation studies revealed that at lactate concentrations of 5 to 15mM, equilibrium of lactate was rapidly obtained between plasma and RBCs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These results indicated that at least half of the lactate transport in canine RBCs occurs via MCT1, whereas MCT7 may be responsible for the rest, although an additional transporter was not ruled out. For practical purposes, the rapid equilibration of lactate between plasma and RBCs indicated that blood lactate concentrations may be estimated from plasma lactate concentrations.
Antimicrobial susceptibility of enteric bacteria recovered from feedlot cattle administered chlortetracycline in feed
Authors: Platt Tammy M. , Loneragan Guy H. , Scott H. Morgan , Norby Bo , Thomson Daniel U. , Brown Michel S. , Ives Samuel E. , Brashears Mindy M.
Published: August 2008

Objective—To evaluate administration of chlortetracycline in feed of cattle as a method to select for tetracycline resistance among enteric bacteria in feedlot settings.

Animals—20 steers.

Procedures—Steers were randomly assigned to an exposed cohort (n = 10) or an unexposed cohort (control cohort; 10). Chlortetracycline (22 mg/kg) in cottonseed meal was administered to the exposed cohort on days 0 through 4, 6 through 10, and 12 through 16. The control cohort was administered only cottonseed meal. Fecal samples were collected from 16 steers on days −7, 0, 2, 6, 8, 12, 14, 19, 22, 26, and 33, and Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp were isolated. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of selected antimicrobials was estimated.

Results—Overall, 56.0% and 31.4% of E coli and Enterococcus isolates, respectively, were resistant to tetracycline. Exposure to chlortetracycline was associated with a significant temporary increase in log2 MIC for both genera but returned to preexposure values by day 33. Averaged across time, the proportion of tetracycline-resistant E coli and Enterococcus isolates was significantly greater in exposed than in unexposed steers. Although all ceftiofur-resistant E coli isolates were coresistant to tetracycline, exposure to chlortetracycline led to a significant decrease in the proportion of E coli resistant to ceftiofur during exposure.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Exposure to chlortetracycline was associated with a temporary increase in the likelihood of recovering resistant bacteria. Exposure to chlortetracycline decreased the likelihood of recovering ceftiofur-resistant E coli isolates, even though isolates were coresistant to tetracycline. These findings warrant further investigation.
Pharmacokinetics of florfenicol in serum and synovial fluid after regional intravenous perfusion in the distal portion of the hind limb of adult cows
Authors: Gilliam John N. , Streeter Robert N. , Papich Mark G. , Washburn Kevin E. , Payton Mark E.
Published: August 2008

Objective—To define the pharmacokinetics of florfenicol in synovial fluid (SYNF) and serum from central venous (CV) and digital venous (DV) blood samples following regional IV perfusion (RIVP) of the distal portion of the hind limb in cows.

Animals—6 healthy adult cows.

Procedures—In each cow, IV catheters were placed in the dorsal common digital vein (DCDV) and the plantar vein of the lateral digit, and an indwelling catheter was placed in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the left hind limb. A pneumatic tourniquet was applied to the midmetatarsal region. Florfenicol (2.2 mg/kg) was administered into the DCDV. Samples of DV blood, SYNF, and CV (jugular) blood were collected after 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 hours, and the tourniquet was removed; additional samples were collected at intervals for 24 hours after infusion. Florfenicol analysis was performed via high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results—In DV blood, CV blood, and SYNF, mean ± SD maximum florfenicol concentration was 714.79 ± 301.93 μg/mL, 5.90 ± 1.37 μg/mL, and 39.19 ± 29.42 μg/mL, respectively; area under the concentration versus time curve was 488.14 ± 272.53 h•μg•mL−1, 23.10 ± 6.91 h•μg•mL−1, and 113.82 ± 54.71 h•μg•mL−1, respectively; and half-life was 4.09 ± 1.93 hours, 4.77 ± 0.67 hours, and 3.81 ± 0.81 hours, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Following RIVP, high florfenicol concentrations were achieved in DV blood and SYNF, whereas the CV blood concentration remained low. In cattle, RIVP of florfenicol may be useful in the treatment of infectious processes involving the distal portion of limbs.
Evaluation of transcutaneous pulmonoscopy for examination and biopsy of the lungs of ball pythons and determination of preferred biopsy specimen handling and fixation procedures
Authors: Stahl Scott J. , Hernandez-Divers Stephen J. , Cooper Tanya L. , Blas-Machado Uriel
Published: August 2008

Objective—To establish a safe and effective technique for the endoscopic examination and biopsy of snake lungs by use of a 2.7-mm rigid endoscope system.

Design—Clinical trial.

Animals—17 adult ball pythons (Python regius).

Procedures—The right lung of each anesthetized snake was transcutaneously penetrated at a predetermined site. Endoscopic lung examination was objectively scored, and 3 lung biopsies were performed. Tissue samples were evaluated histologically for diagnostic quality. One year later, 11 of the 17 snakes again underwent pulmonoscopy and biopsy; specimens were placed in various fixatives to compare preservation quality. All 17 snakes were euthanatized and necropsied.

Results—No major anesthetic, surgical, or biopsy-associated complications were detected in any snake. In 16 of 17 pythons, ease of right lung entry was satisfactory to excellent, and views of the distal portion of the trachea; primary bronchus; intrapulmonary bronchus; cranial lung lobe; and faveolar, semisaccular, and saccular lung regions were considered excellent. In 1 snake, mild hemorrhage caused minor procedural difficulties. After 1 year, pulmonoscopy revealed healing of the previous transcutaneous lung entry and biopsy sites. Important procedure-induced abnormalities were not detected at necropsy. Diagnostic quality of specimens that were shaken from biopsy forceps into physiologic saline (0.9% NaCl) solution before fixation in 2% glutaraldehyde or neutral-buffered 10% formalin was considered good to excellent.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—By use of a 2.7-mm rigid endoscope, lung examination and biopsy can be performed safely, swiftly, and with ease in ball pythons. Biopsy specimens obtained during this procedure are suitable for histologic examination.
The relationship between cheek tooth occlusal morphology, apparent digestibility, and ingesta particle size reduction in horses
Authors: Carmalt James L. , Allen Andrew
Published: August 2008

Objective—To investigate potential relationships between cheek tooth occlusal morphology, apparent feed digestibility, and the reduction in feed particle size that occurs during digestion in horses.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—17 horses of various ages and breeds and either sex.

Procedures—Horses were fed 1 of 3 hay-based diets ad libitum for 14 days prior to euthanasia; nutrient analysis was performed on samples of each of the 3 diets. At the time of postmortem examination, the head was disarticulated, photographs were taken of the occlusal surfaces of the maxillary and mandibular cheek tooth arcades, and samples of stomach and small colon or rectum contents were collected for determination of apparent feed digestibility and particle size determination. An overall oral pathology score was assigned, and morphologic features of the occlusal surfaces of the cheek tooth arcades were determined.

Results—Results of nutrient analyses did not differ among the 3 hay diets, and there was no significant difference in apparent feed digestibility among diets. Feed particle size differed significantly among the 3 diets, but stomach content and fecal particle sizes did not differ among diet groups. No significant correlations were identified between cheek tooth morphologic variables and feed digestibility, and fecal particle size was not significantly associated with oral pathology score.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results did not provide any evidence of associations between cheek tooth morphologic variables, fecal particle size, and apparent digestibility in horses.
Use of intralesional formalin administration for treatment of a subepiglottic cyst in a horse
Authors: Dougherty Sarah S. , Palmer Jan L.
Published: August 2008

Case Description—A 4-year-old horse was evaluated for chronic coughing, mucopurulent nasal discharge, and failure to thrive.

Clinical Findings—Endoscopy was performed on the larynx, pharynx, and trachea and revealed an approximately 2-cm fluctuant subepiglottic cyst.

Treatment and Outcome—The subepiglottic cyst was treated with intralesional formalin administration. Following 2 injections, 2 weeks apart, the cyst was completely resolved with no evidence of scarring or epiglottic deformity.

Clinical Relevance—Findings suggest that intralesional formalin administration for treatment of subepiglottic cysts may be a minimally invasive, economically suitable alternative to surgical treatments.
Changes of microbial indices of water quality in the Vistula and Brda rivers as a result of sewage treatment plant operation
Authors: Walczak Maciej
Published: August 2008

This paper reports the results of studies of microbiological changes in the water quality of the Vistula and Brda rivers after the opening of sewage treatment plants in Bydgoszcz. The study involved determining the microbiological parameters of water quality. Based on the results obtained, it was found that the quality of the water in both rivers had improved decidedly after the opening of the plants, although an increased number of individual groups of microorganisms was found at the treated sewage outlet from one of the plants.
Misidentification and Other Preanalytical Errors
Authors: Bonini Pierangelo , Ceriotti Ferruccio , Mirandola Gaia , Signori Chiara
Published: August 2008

Misidentification and Other Preanalytical Errors

The largest number of laboratory errors occur in the preanalytical phase and are mainly due to educational and organizational reasons. The experience of our institution, as well as the results of an Italian interlaboratory effort to detect and reduce errors/risk of errors in laboratory medicine will be illustrated.
Improving the Preanalytical Process: The Focus on Specimen Quality
Authors: Green Sol
Published: August 2008

Improving the Preanalytical Process: The Focus on Specimen Quality

Trends in clinical laboratory practice place more demands on the quality of patient specimens. Advances in analytical performance (i.e., increased automation, reduced sample volume, increased assay sensitivity), as well as efficiency and cost reduction gains (i.e., throughput, test turnaround time) have improved medical practice. These changes, however, have caused an increased incidence of preanalytical errors, dictating the need for higher-quality specimens. The following paper addresses these errors in addition to methodologies for improving the quality of the preanalytical phase.
The Significance of Urinary Markers in the Evaluation of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Cvetković Tatjana , Vlahović Predrag , đorđević Vidosava , Zvezdanović Lilika , Pavlović Dušica , Kocić Gordana , Sokolović Dušan
Published: August 2008

The Significance of Urinary Markers in the Evaluation of Diabetic Nephropathy

Oxidative stress is considered to be a unifying link between diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications, including nephropathy (DN). The aim of this study was to determine the parameters of oxidative injury of lipids and proteins as well as the activity of ectoenzymes in the urine of DN patients. The study included 40 individuals: 10 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and microalbuminuria (DMT2-MIA), 10 type 2 diabetic patients with macroalbuminuria (DMT2-MAA), 10 patients with type 1 diabetes and microalbuminuria (DMT1-MIA) and 10 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects (control). In the urine we determined TBA reactive substances (TBARS), reactive carbonyl groups (RCG), and the activity of ectoenzymes N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAG), plasma cell differentiation antigen (PC-1), aminopeptidase N (APN) and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV). A higher concentration of TBARS in the urine was found in DMT2-MIA and DMT1-MIA, compared to the control group (p<0.001 and P<0.05). The urine concentration of RCD shows similar results with a significant elevation in the groups with DMT2-MAA and DMT1-MIA, compared to the DMT2-MIA (p<0.001) and control group (p<0.001). Activities of NAG, APN and DPPIV were significantly higher in the urine of DMT2-MAA, compared to the control (p<0.01). The activity of PC-1 was slightly increased in that group, but not significantly. In conclusion, the level of oxidative stress markers and activities of brush border ectoenzymes in the urine may be a useful non-invasive and easily repeatable test in DN.
Contemporary diagnostic methods for ship engines: a report on scientific research activity of Polish Naval Academy in this field
Authors: Korczewski Zbigniew
Published: August 2008

Contemporary diagnostic methods for ship engines: a report on scientific research activity of Polish Naval Academy in this field

This paper devoted to ship combustion engine diagnostics, presents short characteristics of experimental test techniques applicable to state assessment of piston and gas turbine engines presently being in use in Polish Navy. Some metrological and organizational aspects of realization of necessary diagnostic tests as well as measurements of control parameters of engines of low susceptibility to control, were highlighted. Such engines are installed a.o. on board American origin frigates of Oliver Hazard Perry type as well as Norwegian origin submarines of Kobben type which have been recently incorporated into Polish Navy (i.e.General Electric turbine engines, Detroit Diesel and Mercedes Benz piston engines), as well as older engines of Russian production (Zorya turbine engines, Zvezda piston engines). Applicability of particular diagnostic methods was also assessed from the point of view of their effectiveness in identifying engine failures in conditions of its operation in ship power plant. Recently realized tests have made it possible to conduct operation of all piston and turbine engines used on board Polish Navy ships in accordance with their current technical state. On the average 120-130 diagnostic expertises are yearly issued, and the carried-out tests cover main functional systems of engines together with their control and safety subsystems.
Detection of ferromagnetic objects in local magnetic anomaly of the Baltic Sea
Authors: Wołoszyn Mirosław
Published: August 2008

Detection of ferromagnetic objects in local magnetic anomaly of the Baltic Sea

In geological researches several kinds of methods are applied to discovering the natural resources. Planes, helicopters and UAVs (UnmAnned Vehicle) are used in researches in large areas. The gravity, electromagnetic and magnetic methods, which are used in geological researches, are presented in this paper. The special attention was paid to magnetic systems installed on mobile platforms. The magnetic field of the Earth obtained from mathematical model was compared to the real magnetic field in the selected part of the Baltic Sea. The results of the calculations showed that the mathematical model of the Earth's magnetic field does not consider local magnetic anomalies. The strong local magnetic anomalies cause serious problems with detection of underwater objects. Special problems appear in the magnetic system on a helicopter, which are presented in this paper.
Food industry waste composting in a rotational reactor
Authors: Tronina Przemysław , Bubel Fabiola
Published: August 2008

Food industry waste composting in a rotational reactor

The permanently rising costs of food industry waste management create a real necessity for searching for new economical and environmentally friendly technologies with which such waste can be utilized. The purpose of this study was an evaluation of waste composting using rotational reactor technology with further use of the resultant product as a fertilizer. In order to conduct the research, a rotational reactor was designed and constructed. For the composting process, such waste materials as meat and bone pulp, past its sell-by date dairy and bakery products, sawdust, poultry and cattle manure, were used. The composition of the composted masses was chosen so that their approximate C:N:P proportions and consistency were appropriate for the growth of biodegradating micro-organisms. The efficiency of the presented technology was evaluated based on the inactivation of selected strains of bacteria and the eggs of invasive parasites. The products obtained were tested by the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation in Puławy with regard to its possible environmental usage.
Employing Similarity Measures to Examine the Development of Technical Infrastructure in Polish Counties
Authors: Nermend Kesra
Published: August 2008

Employing Similarity Measures to Examine the Development of Technical Infrastructure in Polish Counties

The article presents a comparison made with reference to three similarity measures and Minkowski measures, namely urban measure, the Euclidean measure and Chebyshev measure, as well as the variants of the Euclidean measure and square of the Euclidean measure. Their properties were compared and synthetic measures were created on this basis. Infrastructural-technical variables referring to Polish counties were used as data in the creation of measures.
Efffect of Crop Plant Species on the Efficacy of Pheromone Traps for Monitoring of the Turnip Moth (Agrotis Segetum [Schiff.]) (Lep., Noctuidae)
Authors: Garnis Jakub , Dąbrowski Zbigniew
Published: August 2008

Efffect of Crop Plant Species on the Efficacy of Pheromone Traps for Monitoring of the Turnip Moth (Agrotis Segetum [Schiff.]) (Lep., Noctuidae)

Common cutworm (Turnip moth) (Agrotis segetum), a serious polyphagous pest of many agricultural and horticultural crops, attacks a wide range of plant species in their various growth stages. The larvae are nocturnal in habits, spending the day hiding in the litter or in the soil and their presence is often only notice by farmers when the damage already occurred. Therefore development of an effective monitoring of the adults migration into a crop may help in controlling the pest. The pheromone traps are presently considered as the most effective monitoring system of A. segetum moth. Optimization of pheromone traps location will reduce cost of purchasing traps and labour and at the same time assuring collection of reliable information on A. segetum migration. The "on - farm research" with active participation of farmer in planning and execution of the project was carried out in the two growing seasons: 2005 and 2006 on 10 crop fields and natural vegetation of various ecological infrastructures of a selected representative farm in Piaski village, near Warsaw. A Delta type traps were used for monitoring. The relations between the dynamics of trapping month and density of traps per chosen area and characteristics of agrocenosis (type of crop and uncultivated land, drainage ditches, river embankment, etc.) were established. The collected data may be used in improving the present methods of short- and longterm forecasting of A. segetum population dynamics and optimize the pest chemical control.
Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activity of Caraway Roots (Carum Carvi L.)
Authors: Najda Agnieszka , Dyduch Jan , Brzozowski Norbert
Published: August 2008

Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activity of Caraway Roots (Carum Carvi L.)

Zdolność znoszenia rodnika DPPH przez ekstrakty z korzeni kminku zwyczajnego wzrastała wprost proporcjonalnie do długości okresu wegetacji, zawartości flawonoidów i stężenia ekstraktów.
Exit of Safety Waterway Navigational Accident Probability Assessment Model Based on Navigation Cycles Concept
Authors: Gucma Lucjan
Published: August 2008

Exit of Safety Waterway Navigational Accident Probability Assessment Model Based on Navigation Cycles Concept

The paper presents the concept of ships exit of waterway navigational accident probability assessment. Model enables to determine the total probability of accident during ships passage through waterways. Data from simulation trials or real experiments could be used as the input data.
Review of Road Safety Theories and Models
Authors: Jamroz Kazimierz
Published: August 2008

Review of Road Safety Theories and Models

It has been 100 years since the first attempts at trying to explain why road accidents happen. There have been a number of theories and models studying this and road safety has become a field of scientific study. The paper will present how the theories and models of road safety developed and how they are used for road safety management. Four groups of the most advanced theories are distinguished: static theories, causal theories, system and behavioral theories. This division of the theories is followed in the models used for road safety analyses and studies.
Reliability, Availability and Cost Analysis of Large Multi-State Systems with Ageing Components
Authors: Kołowrocki Krzysztof , Soszyńska Joanna
Published: August 2008

Reliability, Availability and Cost Analysis of Large Multi-State Systems with Ageing Components

Basic notions of the system multi-state reliability analysis are introduced. The multi-state series system with degrading components is defined and its exact reliability function is determined. The limit reliability function for large multi-state systems is introduced. An auxiliary theorem on limit reliability function of a large multi-state series system, which is necessary for its approximate reliability evaluation, is presented. On the basis of this auxiliary theorem some corollaries are formulated and proved and then applied to approximate reliability and availability determination of a large multi-state series system. Evaluations are given of a multi-state system reliability function, its mean lifetimes in the state subsets and their standard deviations, mean value and variance of the lifetime up to and the number of exceeding the system reliability critical state and its availability coefficient. The cost analysis of a multi-state series system is performed as well. The results are applied to a large telecommunication network reliability, availability and cost analysis.
Multi-Factor Index of Public Health: Empirical Analysis and Application in Economic Development of Transition Economies
Authors: Iryna Lukianenko , Larysa Krasnikova , Tamara Podvysotskaya
Published: August 2008

Multi-Factor Index of Public Health: Empirical Analysis and Application in Economic Development of Transition Economies

The main focus of the paper is empirical investigation of health factor influence on economic growth in transition economies. Extending production function model of economic growth by constructed health indices the influence of health factor on the real output was examined. The main finding is that under majority of specifications health indices were found to be positive and significant. The influence of health on productivity growth in transition countries does not differ much from the health influence on productivity in the other countries groups.
Selected Problems of Description and Estimation of Durability
Authors: Smalko Zbigniew
Published: August 2008

Selected Problems of Description and Estimation of Durability

The subject of this paper deals with different aspects of durability: physically, technical, safely, innovative and economic. Likewise is presented the basis reasons of usable characteristics losses and some selected durability coefficients.
Damage Hazard Model for Chosen Element of the Aircraft Structure Taking Into Account Fatigue Crack Development Stages
Authors: Tomaszek Henryk , Żurek Józef , Jasztal Michał
Published: August 2008

Damage Hazard Model for Chosen Element of the Aircraft Structure Taking Into Account Fatigue Crack Development Stages

The subject of the present paper is the modeling of aircraft structure fatigue processes which endanger flight safety. It is assumed that the simple course of the process of aircraft structure elements fatigue encompasses the following stages: initiation of cracks, crack development to the limit value, destruction of the element of structure. These stages can be taken as random incidents or random processes. The paper provides a description of the two initial stages as random processes. The relations obtained allow to define the reliability of the structure element and to evaluate the damage hazard in given time period.
Customs Security in the European Union – Authorised Economic Operator (AEO)
Authors: Janowska-Bucka Edyta
Published: August 2008

Customs Security in the European Union – Authorised Economic Operator (AEO)

The 1st January 2008 came into force the institution of an Authorised Economic Operator (abbreviation - AEO). By obtaining an AEO certificate, the Authorised Economic Operator becomes reliable in the European Community in the field of its customs operations and has right to take benefit because of this.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Used for Security Over the Baltic Sea
Authors: Nowakowski Mirosław , Rykaczewski Dariusz , Sabak Ryszard
Published: August 2008

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Used for Security Over the Baltic Sea

The paper presents new unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) design for Regional and The Local Marine Fishery Inspectorates. Its specific design and maintenance specification allows to increase control abilities and will be the reason for increasing security of the sea sailing.
Risk in Water Supply System Crisis Management
Authors: Tchórzewska-Cieślak Barbara
Published: August 2008

Risk in Water Supply System Crisis Management

Water supply system belongs to the so called critical infrastructure of cities, and it should be a priority task for waterworks and even for the local authorities to ensure the suitable level of its safety. This system is characterised by its continuous work and requires high reliability level for its operating as well as for its safety, it is unique and its particular elements have different functions and simultaneously they interact forming an integral whole. The main aim of this paper is to present problems associated with water supply system safety management in a crisis situation.
Risk Acceptation Principles in Transport
Authors: Szymanek Andrzej
Published: August 2008

Risk Acceptation Principles in Transport

In this paper are presented few methodological problems related to valuing and acceptation risk in transport. In this lecture are presented such problems as: 1. philosophical, ethical and practical rules of risk acceptation. 2. ALARP, ALARA, GAMAB, MEM principles in relation to risk in transport.
Intravascular Microaxial Left Ventricular Assist Device Manufacturer Payments to Cardiologists and Use of Devices
Authors: Dhruva Sanket S. , Ross Joseph S. , Steinman Michael A. , Gan Siqi , Muluk Sruthi , Anderson Timothy S.
Published: April 2024

This study examines whether payments from a left ventricular assist device manufacturer to cardiologists performing percutaneous coronary intervention were associated with any use of the devices.
Guselkumab for Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris and Dysregulation of IL-23/IL-17 and NFkB Signaling
Authors: Velasco Rose C. , Shao Connie , Cutler Brett , Strunck Jennifer , Kent Gail , Cassidy Pamela B. , Choate Keith , Greiling Teri M.
Published: April 2024

Importance

There is no US Food and Drug Administration–approved treatment for pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP), and it is common for patients to fail to experience improvement with several systemic options. Involvement of interleukin (IL) 23 suggests a potential therapeutic target.

Objective

To determine whether guselkumab, an IL-23p19 inhibitor, provides clinical improvement for participants with PRP and better understand gene and protein dysregulation in PRP.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This single-arm, investigator-initiated nonrandomized trial was conducted from October 2019 to August 2022 at a single-center academic university with participants from 8 states in the US. In total, 14 adults with moderate to severe PRP were enrolled; 12 completed the trial. Age-matched and sex-matched healthy controls provided skin and blood for proteomic and transcriptomic studies. The primary outcome was observed at 24 weeks, and additional follow-up occurred at 36 weeks.

Intervention

Guselkumab is a fully human immunoglobulin G1 λ monoclonal antibody that selectively binds and inhibits the p19 subunit of IL-23. Subcutaneous injections were given at the US Food and Drug Administration–approved dosing schedule for psoriasis over a 24-week period.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the mean change in the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) score at week 24. Secondary outcomes included pruritus, Dermatology Life Quality Index score, clinical response at week 36, and association with transcriptomics and proteomics expression.

Results

A per-protocol analysis was performed for the cohort of 4 female and 8 male patients who had a mean (SD) age of 56.5 (18.7) years. The mean improvement in PASI score, pruritus, and Dermatology Life Quality Index score was 61.8% (P < .001), 62.3% (P = .001), and 60.2% (P < .001), respectively. Nine participants (75%) achieved a 50% improvement in PASI. Among these clinical responders, at week 36, 8 of 9 achieved PASI75, and 6 of 9 achieved PASI90. No participants had pathogenic CARD14 gene variations. There was 1 serious adverse event that was not associated with the study drug. Proteomics and gene expression profiles identified dysregulation of a predominance of inflammatory pathways (such as T helper 17 and nuclear factor κ B) in participants with PRP who later responded well to treatment with guselkumab and stronger dysregulation of keratinocyte development pathways in individuals who did not respond to guselkumab.

Conclusion and Relevance

The results of this nonrandomized trial suggest that guselkumab has efficacy in treating refractory moderate to severe adult PRP.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03975153
Willingness of Pharmacists to Prescribe Medication Abortion in California
Authors: Cohen Cathren , Hunter Lauren A. , Beltran Raiza M. , Serpico Jaclyn , Packel Laura , Ochoa Ayako Miyashita , McCoy Sandra I. , Conron Kerith J.
Published: April 2024

Importance

Nearly half of US states have restricted abortion access. Policy makers are exploring pathways to increase access to abortion and reproductive health care more broadly. Since 2016, California pharmacists could prescribe hormonal birth control, providing an opportunity to learn about the implementation of pharmacist-provided reproductive health care.

Objective

To explore the feasibility of broadening pharmacist scope of practice to include prescribing medication abortion.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from October 11 to December 20, 2022, among a convenience sample of California licensed community pharmacists to examine their attitudes toward, knowledge of, and confidence in prescribing hormonal birth control and reports of pharmacy-level practices.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Descriptive analyses and log-binomial regression models were used to compare medication abortion and contraceptive provision attitudes by pharmacist and pharmacy characteristics.

Results

Among the 316 pharmacists included in the analysis who worked at community pharmacies across California (mean [SD] age, 40.9 [12.0] years; 169 of 285 [59.3%] cisgender women; and 159 of 272 [58.5%] non-Hispanic Asian individuals), most (193 of 280 [68.9%]) indicated willingness to prescribe medication abortion to pharmacy clients if allowed by law. However, less than half were confident in their knowledge of medication abortion (139 of 288 [48.3%]) or their ability to prescribe it (115 of 285 [40.4%]). Pharmacists who indicated that providing access to hormonal birth control as a prescribing provider was important (263 of 289 [91.0%]) and were confident in their ability to prescribe it (207 of 290 [71.4%]) were 3.96 (95% CI, 1.80-8.73) times and 2.44 (95% CI, 1.56-3.82) times more likely to be willing to prescribe medication abortion and to express confidence in doing so, respectively. Although most pharmacists held favorable attitudes toward hormonal birth control, less than half (144 of 308 [46.8%]) worked in a pharmacy that provided prescriptions for hormonal birth control, and 149 who did not reported barriers such as lack of knowledge or training (65 [43.6%]), insufficient staff or time to add new services (58 [38.9%]), and lack of coverage for services (50 [33.6%]).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cross-sectional survey study of California pharmacists suggest that most pharmacists were willing to prescribe medication abortion. However, future efforts to expand pharmacists’ scope of practice should include training to increase knowledge and confidence in prescribing medication abortion. Pharmacy-level barriers to hormonal birth control prescription, such as insurance coverage for pharmacist effort, should also be addressed, as they may serve as barriers to medication abortion access.
Mitigating the Overheat of Stretchable Electronic Devices Via High‐Enthalpy Thermal Dissipation of Hydrogel Encapsulation
Authors: Cao Can , Ji Shaobo , Jiang Ying , Su Jiangtao , Xia Huarong , Li Haicheng , Tian Changhao , Wong Yi Jing , Feng Xue , Chen Xiaodong
Published: April 2024

The practical application of flexible and stretchable electronics is significantly influenced by their thermal and chemical stability. Elastomer substrates and encapsulation, due to their soft polymer chains and high surface‐area‐to‐volume ratio, are particularly susceptible to high temperatures and flame. Excessive heat poses a severe threat of damage and decomposition to these elastomers. By leveraging water as a high enthalpy dissipating agent, here, a hydrogel encapsulation strategy is proposed to enhance the flame retardancy and thermal stability of stretchable electronics. The hydrogel‐based encapsulation provides thermal protection against flames for more than 10 s through the evaporation of water. Further, the stretchability and functions automatically recover by absorbing air moisture. The incorporation of hydrogel encapsulation enables stretchable electronics to maintain their functions and perform complex tasks, such as fire saving in soft robotics and integrated electronics sensing. With high enthalpy heat dissipation, encapsulated soft electronic devices are effectively shielded and retain their full functionality. This strategy offers a universal method for flame retardant encapsulation of stretchable electronic devices.
Electron Delocalization and Electrochemical Potential Distribution Phenomena in Faradaic Electrode Materials for Understanding Electrochemical Behavior
Authors: Zhu Yachao , Deebansok Siraprapha , Deng Jie , Wang Xuanze , Brousse Thierry , Favier Frédéric , Fontaine Olivier
Published: April 2024

Electrochemical energy storage devices are built upon the foudations of batteries and supercapacitors. In the past decade, new pseudocapacitor‐like electrodes are intensively developed to obtain superior energy storage performance. Pseudocapacitive matarials store charge through Faradaic processes, while the electrochemical signal remains like electrochemical double‐layer capacitors (EDLCs). To address this controversy, an analytical model is introduced for evaluating the voltammograms of electrode materials. Given this, the work focuses on understanding the origin of the pseudocapacitive phenomena in the cyclic voltammetry (CV) electrochemical signal. Based on electron transfer mechanism and tunnelling effect within the atomic structure, pseudocapacitive matarials possess a high electron delocalization possibility related to the redox centers number and initiates the electrochemical potential distribution among neighboring redox sites, which is consequently observed in the electrochemical signal as the plateau feature in CV, like EDLC. First, the determination of the capacitive tendency of various electrode materials is proposed, which turns out to be relative to the redox centers number (n) and total charge (Z). Here, when this number is large, electron hopping will very likely happen. The developed model is versatile to predict rate/potential regimes for the maximum faradaic storage, and then well differentiates the pseudocapacitive and battery materials.
Inverse Designing Surface Curvatures by Deep Learning
Authors: Guo Yaqi , Sharma Saurav , Kumar Siddhant
Published: April 2024

Smooth and curved microstructural topologies found in nature—from soap films to trabecular bone—have inspired several mimetic design spaces for architected metamaterials and bio‐scaffolds. However, the design approaches so far are ad hoc, raising the challenge: how to systematically and efficiently inverse design such artificial microstructures with targeted topological features? Herein, surface curvature is explored as a design modality and a deep learning framework is presented to produce topologies with as‐desired curvature profiles. The inverse design framework can generalize to diverse topological features such as tubular, membranous, and particulate features. Moreover, successful generalization beyond both the design and data space is demonstrated by inverse designing topologies that mimic the curvature profile of trabecular bone, spinodoid topologies, and periodic nodal surfaces for application in bio‐scaffolds and implants. Lastly, curvature and mechanics are bridged by showing how topological curvature can be designed to promote mechanically beneficial stretching‐dominated deformation over bending‐dominated deformation.
KCNJ3 is a novel candidate gene for autosomal dominant pure hereditary spastic paraplegia identified using whole genome sequencing
Authors: Lee Woong‐Woo , Lee Cha Gon , Ki Chang‐Seok
Published: April 2024

Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is a group of familial diseases characterized by progressive corticospinal tract degeneration. Clinically, patients present with lower‐limb spasticity and weakness. To date, more than 80 genetic HSP types have been identified. Despite advances in molecular genetics, novel HSP gene discoveries are ongoing, with a low genetic diagnostic yield. In this study, we aimed to determine pathogenic variants in a family with HSP, which was not diagnosed through conventional genetic testing. We clinically characterized a large family and conducted whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis of four affected and three unaffected individuals in the family to identify the genetic cause of HSP. This family had autosomal dominant pure (uncomplicated) late childhood‐onset HSP. The patients' symptoms accelerated between the ages of 20 and 30. Brain magnetic resonance images typically showed white matter changes, a thin corpus callosum, and cerebellar atrophy. We identified a heterozygous missense variant, KCNJ3 c.1297T>G (p.Leu433Val), through WGS and family genetic analysis, confirmed by Sanger sequencing. We suggest that the identification of KCNJ3 c.1297T>G (p.Leu433Val) constitutes the discovery of a potential novel gene responsible for HSP in this family. This is the first study to report the possible role of a KCNJ3 variant in HSP pathogenesis. Our findings further expand the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of HSP.
Breaking the Scaling Relationship in C−N Coupling via the Doping Effects for Efficient Urea Electrosynthesis
Authors: Lv Liyang , Tan Hao , Kong Yuan , Tang Bing , Ji Qianqian , Liu Yuying , Wang Chao , Zhuang Zechao , Wang Huijuan , Ge Min , Fan Minghui , Wang Dingsheng , Yan Wensheng
Published: April 2024

Electrochemical C−N coupling reaction based on carbon dioxide and nitrate have been emerged as a new “green synthetic strategy” for the synthesis of urea, but the catalytic efficiency is seriously restricted by the inherent scaling relations of adsorption energies of the active sites, the improvement of catalytic activity is frequently accompanied by the decrease in selectivity. Herein, a doping engineering strategy was proposed to break the scaling relationship of intermediate binding and minimize the kinetic barrier of C−N coupling. A thus designed SrCo0.39Ru0.61O3−δ catalyst achieves a urea yield rate of 1522 μg h−1 mgcat.−1 and faradic efficiency of 34.1 % at −0.7 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode. A series of characterizations revealed that Co doping not only induces lattice distortion but also creates rich oxygen vacancies (OV) in the SrRuO3. The oxygen vacancies weaken the adsorption of *CO and *NH2 intermediates on the Co and Ru sites respectively, and the strain effects over the Co−Ru dual sites promoting the occurrence of C−N coupling of the two monomers instead of selective hydrogenating to form by‐products. This work presents an insight into molecular coupling reactions towards urea synthesis via the doping engineering on SrRuO3.
Preparation of agar‐silica nanofilms through melt mixing: Extending beef shelf life through biodegradable packaging
Authors: Untoro Yovilianda Maulitiva , Nurhamiyah Yeyen , Firdiana Bonita , Nissa Rossy Choerun , Syamani Firda Aulya , Fateha Fateha , Fransiska Dina , Abdullah Akbar Hanif Dawam , Arcana I Made
Published: April 2024

The current study used the melt mixing approach to create a variety of agar/SiO2 nanoparticle (AG/Si) nanocomposites films. Silica nanoparticles were included as a filler in different proportions, varying from 0% to 5% (w/w). The study examined how the composition impacted the chemical properties, mechanical characteristics, thermal properties, water vapor barrier, surface color, and antimicrobial capabilities. After the addition of SiO2, the tensile strength increased significantly from 30.77 to 40.97 MPa at 4% SiO2. Moreover, the presence of SiO2 was improved the contact angle from 53.81° to 63.24°, brightness of the film (L*) from 70.63 ± 3.34 up to 84.80 ± 2.26, maximum degradation temperature (Tdmax) from 315 to 317°C and melting temperature (Tm) from 109 to 125°C. In the meantime, following the integration of SiO2 content, the density of agar film dropped from 1.27 to 1.16 kg/m3. The AG/Si film effectively prevented bacterial growth and extended the shelf life of fresh beef, suggesting a novel biobased option for antimicrobial packaging film.
What is the relationship between the local population change and cancer incidence in patients with dyslipidemia: Evidence of the impact of local extinction in Korea
Authors: Jeong Wonjeong , Choi Dong‐Woo , Kim Woorim , Han Kyu‐Tae
Published: April 2024

Background

Changes in the local population are intricately linked to healthcare infrastructure, which subsequently impacts the healthcare sector. A decreasing local population can result in lagging health infrastructure, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes as patients may be at risk of not receiving optimal care and treatment. While some studies have explored the relationship between chronic diseases and local population decline, evidence regarding cancer is insufficient. In this study, we focused on how deteriorating management of chronic diseases such as dyslipidemia could influence the risk of cancer. We investigated the relationship between changes in the local population and cancer incidence among patients with dyslipidemia.

Methods

This cohort study was conducted using claims data. Data from adult patients with dyslipidemia from the National Health Insurance Service–National Sample Cohort conducted between 2002 and 2015 were included. Population changes in each region were obtained from the Korean Statistical Information Service and were used to link each individual's regional code. Cancer risk was the dependent variable, and Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the target associations.

Results

Data from 336,883 patients with dyslipidemia were analyzed. Individuals who resided in areas with a decreasing population had a higher risk of cancer than those living in areas with an increasing population (decrease: hazard ratio (HR) = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.03–1.10; normal: HR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02–1.09). Participants living in regions with a low number of hospitals had a higher risk of cancer than those in regions with a higher number of hospitals (HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.12–1.29).

Conclusion

Patients in regions where the population has declined are at a higher risk of cancer, highlighting the importance of managing medical problems caused by regional extinction. This could provide evidence for and useful insights into official policies on population decline and cancer risk.
Child Fostering and the Question of Child Labour in Northern Ghana's Alleged Witches' Camps
Authors: Musah Baba Iddrisu , Achanso Adams Sulemana , Mutaru Saibu
Published: April 2024

Among the Dagbamba of northern Ghana, the customary practice of child fostering is not the sole responsibility of biological parents, but rather a collective responsibility of the extended family and the larger society. This makes child fostering an age‐old, informal socio‐cultural practice and an integral aspect of social life. Even though the intentions behind child fostering are often good, fostering may also be associated with some dangers such as child labour. In recent years, the debate as to whether child fostering amounts to child labour has been extended to northern Ghana's alleged witches' camps; places where elderly women accused of witchcraft are sheltered. Drawing on one‐to‐one interviews with selected children, alleged witches and community elders, and supplemented by personal experiences growing up in Dagbambaland, this article examines child fostering in relation to child labour in these settlements. Using qualitative ethnographic data, our findings show that what is described as child labour in these settlements is a necessary evil for the category of children who live in these settlements.
Covered self‐expandable metallic stent placement for tumor bleeding from duodenal invasion in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Shibuki Taro , Fukushi Ko , Inoue Kanae , Taira Tomonao , Satake Tomoyuki , Watanabe Kazuo , Sasaki Mitsuhito , Imaoka Hiroshi , Mitsunaga Shuichi , Ikeda Masafumi
Published: April 2024

Patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer often present with duodenal bleeding, a potentially life‐threatening complication. In our case series of six unresectable pancreatic cancer patients with tumor bleeding, we explored the efficacy and safety of placement of a covered self‐expandable metallic stent in the duodenum as a treatment option; we achieved a hemostasis rate of 67% (4/6), with a rebleeding rate of 50% (2/4). No complications occurred with stent placement, except for food impaction in one patient. Covered self‐expandable metallic stent placement is a moderately effective treatment option for tumor bleeding in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer. Although its hemostatic efficacy is limited, covered self‐expandable metallic stent placement is safe and beneficial in some cases, warranting consideration in this disease setting with limited treatment options.