bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential role of hybrid positron emission tomography in pre-operative assessment of primary salivary gland carcinomas
Authors: Karimian S , Hüllner M W , Rupp N J , Freiberger S N , Broglie M A , Morand G B
Published: June 2022

Objective

The added value of hybrid positron emission tomography is increasingly recognised in head and neck cancer. However, its potential role in salivary gland carcinomas has been scarcely investigated.

Methods

A consecutive cohort of 45 salivary gland carcinoma patients who underwent pre-therapeutic hybrid positron emission tomography and surgical resection was reviewed. This study investigated whether maximum standardised uptake value correlated with tumour phenotype.

Results

Tumours of high-grade disease on histology (salivary duct carcinoma, carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma) had higher maximum standardised uptake value (Kruskal–Wallis test, p = 0.011) than low-grade tumours (adenoid cystic carcinoma and acinic cell carcinoma). Patients with pathologically confirmed node-positive disease had significantly higher maximum standardised uptake value of the primary tumour than patients with pathologically confirmed node-negative disease (Kruskal–Wallis test, p = 0.012).

Conclusion

Maximum standardised uptake value of the primary tumour may guide clinical decision-making in patients with salivary gland carcinomas, as a high maximum standardised uptake value is associated with high-grade tumour histology and the presence of lymph node metastases. Clinicians may consider more aggressive surgery for these patients.
What's in a name? Common name misuse potentially confounds the conservation of the wild camel Camelus ferus
Authors: Jemmett Anna M. , Groombridge Jim J. , Hare John , Yadamsuren Adiya , Burger Pamela A. , Ewen John G.
Published: June 2022

Common names allow species diversity to be acknowledged by experts and non-specialists alike; they are descriptors with both scientific and cultural implications. However, a lack of clarity when using a common name could risk altering perceptions of threatened species. This is the case for the Critically Endangered wild camel Camelus ferus, which, despite extensive evidence of its species status, is frequently referred to in English as wild Bactrian camel. However, the wild camel (Mongolian: хавтгай, khavtgai; Chinese: 野骆驼, ye luo tuo) is not a wild version of the domestic Bactrian camel Camelus bactrianus but a separate species near extinction, with an estimated population of c. 950. Failure to clearly separate Bactrian and wild camels in name risks masking the plight of the few remaining wild camels with the visible abundance of the domesticated species. Here we advocate the use of the accurate English common name wild camel for C. ferus ideally alongside its Indigenous names to correctly represent its cultural and conservation importance.
Brain glucose metabolism in schizophrenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 18FDG-PET studies in schizophrenia
Authors: Townsend Leigh , Pillinger Toby , Selvaggi Pierluigi , Veronese Mattia , Turkheimer Federico , Howes Oliver
Published: June 2022

Background

Impaired brain metabolism may be central to schizophrenia pathophysiology, but the magnitude and consistency of metabolic dysfunction is unknown.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, PsychINFO and EMBASE between 01/01/1980 and 13/05/2021 for studies comparing regional brain glucose metabolism using 18FDG-PET, in schizophrenia/first-episode psychosis v. controls. Effect sizes (Hedges g) were pooled using a random-effects model. Primary measures were regional absolute and relative CMRGlu in frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital lobes, basal ganglia and thalamus.

Results

Thirty-six studies (1335 subjects) were included. Frontal absolute glucose metabolism (Hedge's g = −0.74 ± 0.54, p = 0.01; I2 = 67%) and metabolism relative to whole brain (g = −0.44 ± 0.34, p = 0.01; I2 = 55%) were lower in schizophrenia v. controls with moderate heterogeneity. Absolute frontal metabolism was lower in chronic (g = −1.18 ± 0.73) v. first-episode patients (g = −0.09 ± 0.88) and controls. Medicated patients showed frontal hypometabolism relative to controls (−1.04 ± 0.26) while metabolism in drug-free patients did not differ significantly from controls. There were no differences in parietal, temporal or occipital lobe or thalamic metabolism in schizophrenia v. controls. Excluding outliers, absolute basal ganglia metabolism was lower in schizophrenia v. controls (−0.25 ± 0.24, p = 0.049; I2 = 5%). Studies identified reporting voxel-based morphometry measures of absolute 18FDG uptake (eight studies) were also analysed using signed differential mapping analysis, finding lower 18FDG uptake in the left anterior cingulate gyrus (Z = −4.143; p = 0.007) and the left inferior orbital frontal gyrus (Z = −4.239; p = 0.02) in schizophrenia.

Conclusions

We report evidence for hypometabolism with large effect sizes in the frontal cortex in schizophrenia without consistent evidence for alterations in other brain regions. Our findings support the hypothesis of hypofrontality in schizophrenia.
Methods and criteria for the assessment of orphan drugs: a scoping review
Authors: Mohammadshahi Marita , Olyaeemanesh Alireza , Ehsani-Chimeh Elham , Mobinizadeh Mohammadreza , Fakoorfard Zeinab , Akbari Sari Ali , Aghighi Mohammad
Published: June 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to identify different criteria for priority setting of rare diseases to help policy makers in making evidence-informed decisions.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted to comprehensively examine the existing various methods and criteria for prioritizing orphan drugs and rare diseases. We performed searching in Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and websites of health technology assessment (HTA) agencies, 2000–21, and data were extracted.

Results

From the 1,580 identified publications, eleven articles were included. Multicriteria decision analysis was the most frequent method (seven out of eleven studies) used for priority setting. The extracted criteria for priority setting of orphan products were analyzed based on six main categories as follows: health outcomes and clinical implications (six subsets which showed clinical implications), economic aspects (four subsets that indicated the economic effects of orphan drugs and rare diseases), disease and population characteristics (six subsets that included the characteristics of the rare diseases), therapeutic alternatives and uniqueness of orphan technologies (two subsets which discussed the alternatives and uniqueness of orphan technologies), evidence (three subsets which regarded the quality and availability of evidence), and other criteria (three subsets dealing with social and organizational criteria). Cost-effectiveness, budget impact, and disease severity were the most frequent criteria in the studies.

Conclusions

Because of the high price of orphan drugs and limitations of using HTA for reimbursement of them, it is critical to explore them by precise technical methods like multiple criteria decision making in priority setting.
Joint programmes in paediatric cardiac surgery: an update and descriptive analysis
Authors: Toomey Nikia T. , Ulysse James , DeCampli William M.
Published: June 2022

Objective:

Joint programmes are an alternative model that may aid in improving congenital cardiac surgery outcomes while avoiding the potential resource and accessibility challenges that could result from regionalisation. This study aims to characterise current joint programmes, identify factors that are associated with joint programme success and failure, and gauge attitudes within the profession regarding joint programmes as an alternative.

Methods:

A multiple choice survey with 23 standard questions for all programmes and additional 42 additional questions for each participant hospital in a joint programme was addressed to paediatric cardiac surgeons in the United States of America. Questions were designed to qualitatively and quantitatively characterise congenital cardiac surgery joint programmes.

Results:

Of the 34 unique congenital cardiac surgery programmes identified in this survey, 14 have participated in a joint programme and 50% of those joint programmes existed for more than 10 years. Most joint programmes (86%) participate or participated in a model where the hospital participants are engaged in a “mother–daughter” relationship in both perception and case volume distribution. In three out of four defunct joint programmes, there were case complexity limitations placed on partner institutions, but the now independent partner institutions operate with no limitation on complexity. Most (71%) hospital participants in a joint programme felt that the joint programme produced better outcomes than two separate programmes; however, among those who participate or have participated in a joint programme, only 18% felt that joint programmes were the optimal model for delivery of congenital cardiac surgical care.
Quality of life after Ross procedure in children
Authors: Chau Peter , Uzark Karen C. , Goldberg Caren S. , Donohue Janet E. , Schumacher Kurt R.
Published: June 2022

Introduction:

Health-related quality of life in children who have undergone the Ross procedure has not been well characterised. The aim of this study was to characterise health-related quality of life in this cohort and compare to children with other CHD.

Method:

In this cross sectional, single-centre study, health-related quality of life was assessed in patients who underwent a non-neonatal Ross procedure using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Ross cohort scores were compared with healthy norms, patients with CHD requiring no surgical intervention or had curative surgery (Severity 2, S2) and patients who were surgically repaired with ≥1 surgical procedure and with significant residual lesion or need for additional surgery (Severity 3, S3). Associations between Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory score and patient factors were also examined.

Results:

68 patients completed surveys. Nearly one-sixth of patients had overall scores below the cut-off for at-risk status for impaired health-related quality of life. There was no difference in overall health-related quality of life score between the Ross cohort and healthy children (p = 0.56) and S2 cohort (p = 0.97). Health-related quality of life was significantly higher in the Ross cohort compared to S3 cohort (p = 0.02). This difference was driven by a higher psychosocial health-related quality of life in the Ross cohort as compared to S3 cohort (p = 0.007). Anxiety scores were significantly worse in the Ross cohort compared to both S2 (p = 0.001) and S3 (p = 0.0017), respectively.

Conclusion:

Children who have undergone a Ross procedure report health-related quality of life equivalent to CHD not requiring therapy and superior to CHD with residual lesions. Despite these reassuring results, providers should be aware of potential anxiety among Ross patients.
Practices Make Pertinent: Prospecting and Histories of the Present
Authors: Shepard Todd
Published: June 2022

Most historians let collective memories guide their work, with what needs to be studied already understood to matter. This is particularly true for histories of the recent past, in which primary-source research serves, to quote Michel Foucault, “to refresh memory.” Memorial histories are of different types—including nationalist histories, militant histories, and family or group histories—and useful. There are other approaches to studying the past, however, that can help even those committed to memorial practices. This article draws from work by Bonnie G. Smith, Laura Doan, and Foucault to home in on two key historical practices: “primary-source work” and “historiography.” A sharper awareness of what these practices are, their possibilities, and, of pressing importance, their limits—what they cannot or tend not to reveal, what they in fact render more difficult to see—could help make debates about presentism more convincing. The article proposes “prospecting” as a way to identify research topics that might stimulate present-day discussions and also engage other scholars.
Sex and gender in treatment response to dialectical behaviour therapy: current knowledge, gaps, and future directions
Authors: Penta S. , Correia S. , Schneider M.A. , Holshausen K. , Nicholson A.A. , Haefner S.A. , Mutschler C. , Ferdossifard A. , Boylan K. , Hewitt J. , Roth S.L. , Wilson R. , Hatchard T.
Published: June 2022

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition characterized by emotion dysregulation, interpersonal impairment, and high suicidality. Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is the most widely studied psychotherapeutic treatment for BPD. To date, the vast majority of DBT research has focused on cisgender women, with a notable lack of systematic investigation of sex and/or gender differences in treatment response. In order to encourage effective, equitable treatment of BPD, further investigation into treatment targets in this population is critical. Here, we employed a systematic strategy to delineate gaps in the DBT literature pertaining to sex and gender differences and propose directions for future research. Findings demonstrate a significant discrepancy in measurement of sex and gender, particularly among gender-diverse individuals. Exploring DBT treatment response across the full spectrum of genders will facilitate the provision of more tailored, impactful care to all individuals who suffer from BPD.

Key learning aims

(1)

To date, DBT treatment literature has focused almost exclusively on cisgender women, with only two of 253 DBT studies in current literature accounting for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals.

(2)

Recognize how gender minority stress may impact the prevalence of BPD among TGD individuals.

(3)

Learn how future research initiatives can be employed to rectify this gap in the DBT literature.
Increasing Frequency of Mid‐Depth Salinity Maximum Intrusions in the Middle Atlantic Bight
Authors: Gawarkiewicz G. , Fratantoni P. , Bahr F. , Ellertson A.
Published: June 2022

Shelfbreak exchange processes have been studied extensively in the Middle Atlantic Bight. An important process occurring during stratified conditions is the Salinity Maximum Intrusion. These features are commonly observed at the depth of the seasonal pycnocline, and less frequently at the surface and bottom. Data collected from NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service Ecosystem Monitoring program as well as data collected from the fishing industry in Rhode Island show that the middepth intrusions are now occurring much more frequently than was reported in a previous climatology of the intrusions (Lentz, 2003, https://doi.org/10.1029/2003JC001859). The intrusions have a greater salinity difference from ambient water and penetrate large distances shoreward of the shelf break relative to the earlier climatology. The longer term data from the Ecosystem Monitoring program indicates that the increase in frequency occurred in 2000, and thus may be linked to a recent regime shift in the annual formation rate of Warm Core Rings by the Gulf Stream. Given the increased frequency of these salty intrusions, it will be necessary to properly resolve this process in numerical simulations in order to account for salt budgets for the continental shelf and slope.
Modeling the Transport and Deposition of 10Be Produced by the Strongest Solar Proton Event During the Holocene
Authors: Spiegl T. C. , Yoden S. , Langematz U. , Sato T. , Chhin R. , Noda S. , Miyake F. , Kusano K. , Schaar K. , Kunze M.
Published: June 2022

Prominent excursions in the number of cosmogenic nuclides (e.g., 10Be) around 774 CE/775 document the most severe solar proton event (SPE) throughout the Holocene. Its manifestation in ice cores is valuable for geochronology, but also for solar‐terrestrial physics and climate modeling. Using the ECHAM/MESSy Atmospheric Chemistry (EMAC) climate model in combination with the Warning System for Aviation Exposure to SEP (WASAVIES), we investigate the transport, mixing, and deposition of the cosmogenic nuclide 10Be produced by the 774 CE/775 SPE. By comparing the model results to the reconstructed 10Be time series from four ice core records, we study the atmospheric pathways of 10Be from its stratospheric source to its sink at Earth's surface. The reconstructed post‐SPE evolution of the 10Be surface fluxes at the ice core sites is well captured by the model. The downward transport of the 10Be atoms is controlled by the Brewer‐Dobson circulation in the stratosphere and cross‐tropopause transport via tropopause folds or large‐scale sinking. Clear hemispheric differences in the transport and deposition processes are identified. In both polar regions the 10Be surface fluxes peak in summertime, with a larger influence of wet deposition on the seasonal 10Be surface flux in Greenland than in Antarctica. Differences in the peak 10Be surface flux following the 774 CE/775 SPE at the drilling sites are explained by specific meteorological conditions depending on the geographic locations of the sites.
OTUB1 augments hypoxia signaling via its non-canonical ubiquitination inhibition of HIF-1α during hypoxia adaptation
Authors: Liu Xing , Deng Hongyan , Tang Jinhua , Wang Zixuan , Zhu Chunchun , Cai Xiaolian , Rong Fangjing , Chen Xiaoyun , Sun Xueyi , Jia Shuke , Ouyang Gang , Li Wenhua , Xiao Wuhan
Published: June 2022

As a main regulator of cellular responses to hypoxia, the protein stability of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α is strictly controlled by oxygen tension dependent of PHDs-catalyzed protein hydroxylation and pVHL complex-mediated proteasomal degradation. Whether HIF-1α protein stability as well as its activity can be further regulated under hypoxia is not well understood. In this study, we found that OTUB1 augments hypoxia signaling independent of PHDs/VHL and FIH. OTUB1 binds to HIF-1α and depletion of OTUB1 reduces endogenous HIF-1α protein under hypoxia. In addition, OTUB1 inhibits K48-linked polyubiquitination of HIF-1α via its non-canonical inhibition of ubiquitination activity. Furthermore, OTUB1 promotes hypoxia-induced glycolytic reprogramming for cellular metabolic adaptation. These findings define a novel regulation of HIF-1α under hypoxia and demonstrate that OTUB1-mediated HIF-1α stabilization positively regulates HIF-1α transcriptional activity and benefits cellular hypoxia adaptation.
Chronic inhibition of the mitochondrial ATP synthase in skeletal muscle triggers sarcoplasmic reticulum distress and tubular aggregates
Authors: Sánchez-González Cristina , Herrero Martín Juan Cruz , Salegi Ansa Beñat , Núñez de Arenas Cristina , Stančič Brina , Pereira Marta P. , Contreras Laura , Cuezva José M. , Formentini Laura
Published: June 2022

Tubular aggregates (TA) are honeycomb-like arrays of sarcoplasmic-reticulum (SR) tubules affecting aged glycolytic fibers of male individuals and inducing severe sarcomere disorganization and muscular pain. TA develop in skeletal muscle from Tubular Aggregate Myopathy (TAM) patients as well as in other disorders including endocrine syndromes, diabetes, and ageing, being their primary cause unknown. Nowadays, there is no cure for TA. Intriguingly, both hypoxia and calcium dyshomeostasis prompt TA formation, pointing to a possible role for mitochondria in their setting. However, a functional link between mitochondrial dysfunctions and TA remains unknown. Herein, we investigate the alteration in muscle-proteome of TAM patients, the molecular mechanism of TA onset and a potential therapy in a preclinical mouse model of the disease. We show that in vivo chronic inhibition of the mitochondrial ATP synthase in muscle causes TA. Upon long-term restrained oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), oxidative soleus experiments a metabolic and structural switch towards glycolytic fibers, increases mitochondrial fission, and activates mitophagy to recycle damaged mitochondria. TA result from the overresponse of the fission controller DRP1, that upregulates the Store-Operate-Calcium-Entry and increases the mitochondria-SR interaction in a futile attempt to buffer calcium overloads upon prolonged OXPHOS inhibition. Accordingly, hypoxic muscles cultured ex vivo show an increase in mitochondria/SR contact sites and autophagic/mitophagic zones, where TA clusters grow around defective mitochondria. Moreover, hypoxia triggered a stronger TA formation upon ATP synthase inhibition, and this effect was reduced by the DRP1 inhibitor mDIVI. Remarkably, the muscle proteome of TAM patients displays similar alterations in mitochondrial dynamics and in ATP synthase contents. In vivo edaravone treatment in mice with restrained OXPHOS restored a healthy phenotype by prompting mitogenesis and mitochondrial fusion. Altogether, our data provide a functional link between the ATP synthase/DRP1 axis and the setting of TA, and repurpose edaravone as a possible treatment for TA-associated disorders.
Association between DNA methylation variability and self-reported exposure to heavy metals
Authors: Freydenzon Anna , Nabais Marta F. , Lin Tian , Williams Kelly L. , Wallace Leanne , Henders Anjali K. , Blair Ian P. , Wray Naomi R. , Pamphlett Roger , McRae Allan F.
Published: June 2022

Individuals encounter varying environmental exposures throughout their lifetimes. Some exposures such as smoking are readily observed and have high personal recall; others are more indirect or sporadic and might only be inferred from long occupational histories or lifestyles. We evaluated the utility of using lifetime-long self-reported exposures for identifying differential methylation in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cases-control cohort of 855 individuals. Individuals submitted paper-based surveys on exposure and occupational histories as well as whole blood samples. Genome-wide DNA methylation levels were quantified using the Illumina Infinium Human Methylation450 array. We analyzed 15 environmental exposures using the OSCA software linear and MOA models, where we regressed exposures individually by methylation adjusted for batch effects and disease status as well as predicted scores for age, sex, cell count, and smoking status. We also regressed on the first principal components on clustered environmental exposures to detect DNA methylation changes associated with a more generalised definition of environmental exposure. Five DNA methylation probes across three environmental exposures (cadmium, mercury and metalwork) were significantly associated using the MOA models and seven through the linear models, with one additionally across a principal component representing chemical exposures. Methylome-wide significance for four of these markers was driven by extreme hyper/hypo-methylation in small numbers of individuals. The results indicate the potential for using self-reported exposure histories in detecting DNA methylation changes in response to the environment, but also highlight the confounded nature of environmental exposure in cohort studies.
High efficacy of intensive immunochemotherapy for primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma with prolonged follow up
Authors: Romejko-Jarosinska Joanna , Ostrowska Beata , Dabrowska-Iwanicka Anna , Domanska-Czyz Katarzyna , Rymkiewicz Grzegorz , Paszkiewicz-Kozik Ewa , Konecki Robert , Borawska Anna , Druzd-Sitek Agnieszka , Lampka Elzbieta , Osiadacz Wlodzimierz , Osowiecki Michal , Popławska Lidia , Swierkowska Monika , Targonski Lukasz , Tajer Joanna , Lapinska Grazyna , Smorczewska Malwina , Walewski Jan
Published: June 2022

Primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBL) is currently curable in 85–95% of patients. Treatment regimens frequently used include RCHOP ± radiotherapy, DAEPOCH-R, or occasionally more intensive protocols. Here we present results of treatment of 124 patients with PMBL over a period between 2004 and 2017 with the use of a protocol designed for aggressive B-cell lymphoma GMALL/B-ALL/NHL2002 including 6 cycles of alternating immunochemotherapy with intermediate-dose methotrexate in each cycle, and reduced total doxorubicin dose (100 mg/m2 for whole treatment). Majority of patients (77%) received consolidative radiotherapy. A median (range) age of patients was 30 (18–59) years, and 60% were female. With a median (range) follow up of 9 (1–17) years, 5-year overall survival (OS) and 5-year progression free survival (PFS) were 94% and 92%, respectively. Positron emission tomography—computed tomography (PET-CT) results at the end of chemotherapy were predictive for outcome: OS and PFS at 5 year were 96% and 94% in PET-CT negative patients, respectively, and 70% and 70% in PET-CT-positive patients (p = 0.004 for OS, p = 0.01 for PFS). Eight (6%) patients had recurrent/refractory disease, however, no central nervous system (CNS) relapse was observed. Acute toxicity included pancytopenia grade 3/4, neutropenic fever, and treatment related mortality rate of 0.8%. Second malignancies and late cardiotoxicity occurred in 2.4% and 2.4% of patients, respectively. Intensive alternating immunochemotherapy protocol GMALL/B-ALL/NHL2002 is curative for more than 90% of PMBL patients and late toxicity in young patients is moderated. The attenuated dose of doxorubicin and intermediate dose of methotrexate may contribute to low incidence of late cardiotoxicity and effective CNS prophylaxis.
Association between migraine and risk of ocular motor cranial nerve palsy
Authors: Rhiu Soolienah , Han Kyungdo , Yoo Juhwan , Park Kyung-Ah , Oh Sei Yeul
Published: June 2022

To assess association between migraines and development of ocular motor cranial nerve palsy (CNP) and finding risk factors using the National Sample Cohort database from the Korea National Health Insurance Service. Data was analyzed from 4,234,341 medical screening examinees aged 20–90 years in 2009. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to the adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for ocular motor CNP according to presence of migraine. Subgroup analysis was performed to evaluate effect of other factors on association of migraine with ocular motor CNP. A total of 5806 participants (0.14% of subjects) developed ocular motor CNP and were assigned to CNP group, 4,048,018 were assigned to control group, with an average of 8.22 ± 0.93 years of follow-up. Incidence of ocular motor CNP increased in migraine group compared to control. After adjusting potential confounding variables, HR for ocular motor CNP was 1.166 (confidence interval [CI] 1.013–1.343) in migraine group. Subgroups of relatively younger age less than 65 years (HR = 1.267, 95% CI 1.067–1.504), male gender (HR = 1.228, 95% CI 1.000–1.122), smokers (HR 1.426, 95% CI 1.127–1.803), and diabetes mellitus patients (HR = 1.378, 95% CI 1.045–1.378) showed a stronger association between migraines and development of ocular motor CNP. Our population-based cohort study demonstrated a significant association between presence of migraines and incidence of ocular motor CNP. Especially, relatively younger age, males, smokers, and diabetes patients with migraines could have a higher risk of developing ocular motor CNP.
Quercetin and luteolin are single-digit micromolar inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase
Authors: Munafò Federico , Donati Elisa , Brindani Nicoletta , Ottonello Giuliana , Armirotti Andrea , De Vivo Marco
Published: June 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has rapidly become a global health pandemic. Among the viral proteins, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) is responsible for viral genome replication and has emerged as one of the most promising targets for pharmacological intervention against SARS-CoV-2. To this end, we experimentally tested luteolin and quercetin for their ability to inhibit the RdRp enzyme. These two compounds are ancestors of flavonoid natural compounds known for a variety of basal pharmacological activities. Luteolin and quercetin returned a single-digit IC50 of 4.6 µM and 6.9 µM, respectively. Then, through dynamic docking simulations, we identified possible binding modes of these compounds to a recently published cryo-EM structure of RdRp. Collectively, these data indicate that these two compounds are a valid starting point for further optimization and development of a new class of RdRp inhibitors to treat SARS-CoV-2 and potentially other viral infections.
Dimensional stability and mechanical properties of extruded-compression biopolymer composites made from selected Nigerian grown wood species at varying proportions
Authors: Oladimeji A. O. , Agboola F. Z. , Oguntayo D. O. , Aina K. S.
Published: June 2022

250 µm particle size of wood and polyethylene (PE) materials were compounded at mixing proportions of 60/40, 70/30, and 80/20 (with an increase in polymer to decrease in wood content) and extruded using a single screw extruder at a temperature range of 110–135 °C. The particles of Gmelina Arborea, Tectona grandis, Cordiamilleni, and Nauclea diderichii with recycled Polyethylene were compounded and compressed at 175 N/mm to produce biopolymer composites. The biopolymer composites were subjected to dimensional stability test at 24 h of the water soak method and the ability to withstand load-bearing capacity was investigated. The outcome of the results shows that extruded-compressive biopolymer composites had values ranging from 0.06–1.43 g/cm3, 0.38–3.41%, and 0.82–6.85% for observed density, water absorption, and thickness swelling at 24 h of a water soak test. The mechanical properties values ranged from 0.28 Nmm−2–21.35 Nmm−2 and 0.44–550.06 Nmm−2 for flexural modulus and strength; and 191.43 Nmm−2–1857.24 Nmm−2 and 0.35 Nmm−2–243.75 Nmm−2 for tensile modulus and strength respectively. It was observed that moisture uptake and strength displayed by the composites vary accordingly in values obtained for wood species at different mixing proportions. As observed that the more polyethylene content is compounded to wood, the better its dimensional stability, and flexural and tensile properties. The wood particles of Cordiamilleni compounded at a proportion of 60 to 40 (polyethylene/wood) performed best in dimensional stability and load-bearing capacity. This study confirmed the effect of methods on wood species and recycled PE for manufacturing wood polymer-based composite for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Two octaves spanning photoacoustic microscopy
Authors: Nteroli Gianni , Dasa Manoj K. , Messa Giulia , Koutsikou Stella , Bondu Magalie , Moselund Peter M. , Markos Christos , Bang Ole , Podoleanu Adrian , Bradu Adrian
Published: June 2022

In this study, for the first time, a Photoacoustic Microscopy instrument driven by a single optical source operating over a wide spectral range (475–2400 nm), covering slightly more than two octaves is demonstrated. Xenopus laevis tadpoles were imaged in vivo using the whole spectral range of 2000 nm of a supercontinuum optical source, and a novel technique of mapping absorbers is also demonstrated, based on the supposition that only one chromophore contributes to the photoacoustic signal of each individual voxel in the 3D photoacoustic image. By using a narrow spectral window (of 25 nm bandwidth) within the broad spectrum of the supercontinuum source at a time, in vivo hyper-spectral Photoacoustic images of tadpoles are obtained. By post-processing pairs of images obtained using different spectral windows, maps of five endogenous contrast agents (hemoglobin, melanin, collagen, glucose and lipids) are produced.
Deciphering the genetic basis of male fertility in Italian Brown Swiss dairy cattle
Authors: Pacheco Hendyel A. , Rossoni Attilio , Cecchinato Alessio , Peñagaricano Francisco
Published: June 2022

Improving reproductive performance remains a major goal in dairy cattle worldwide. Service sire has been recognized as an important factor affecting herd fertility. The main objective of this study was to reveal the genetic basis of male fertility in Italian Brown Swiss dairy cattle. Dataset included 1102 Italian Brown Swiss bulls with sire conception rate records genotyped with 454k single nucleotide polymorphisms. The analysis included whole-genome scans and gene-set analyses to identify genomic regions, individual genes and genetic mechanisms affecting Brown Swiss bull fertility. One genomic region on BTA1 showed significant additive effects. This region harbors gene RABL3 which is implicated cell proliferation and motility. Two genomic regions, located on BTA6 and BTA26, showed marked non-additive effects. These regions harbor genes, such as WDR19 and ADGRA1, that are directly involved in male fertility, including sperm motility, acrosome reaction, and embryonic development. The gene-set analysis revealed functional terms related to cell adhesion, cellular signaling, cellular transport, immune system, and embryonic development. Remarkably, a gene-set analysis also including Holstein and Jersey data, revealed significant processes that are common to the three dairy breeds, including cell migration, cell–cell interaction, GTPase activity, and the immune function. Overall, this comprehensive study contributes to a better understanding of the genetic basis of male fertility in cattle. In addition, our findings may guide the development of novel genomic strategies for improving service sire fertility in Brown Swiss cattle.
Fecobionics characterization of female patients with fecal incontinence
Authors: Futaba Kaori , Chen Ssu-Chi , Leung Wing Wa , Wong Cherry , Mak Tony , Ng Simon , Gregersen Hans
Published: June 2022

Defecatory disorders including fecal incontinence (FI) are diagnosed on the symptom pattern supplemented by anorectal manometry (ARM), the balloon expulsion test (BET), and endo-anal ultrasonography. In this study, we used a simulated stool named Fecobionics to study distinct defecation patterns in FI patients using preload-afterload diagrams and to provide comparative data on defecation indices (DIs) between passive and urge incontinent patients. All subjects had Fecobionics, endo-anal ultrasonography and ARM-BET done. The Fecobionics bag was distended in rectum until urge in 37 female patients (64.1 ± 1.5 yrs) and a group of normal subjects (NS, 12F, age 64.8 ± 2.8 yrs). Rear-front pressure (preload-afterload) diagrams and DIs were compared between groups. The FISI score in the patients was 8.6 ± 0.6. The NS did not report FI-related symptoms. All patients and NS defecated Fecobionics and ARM-BET within 2 min. The urge volume was 46.1 ± 3.6 and 35.3 ± 5.9 mL in the FI and normal groups (P > 0.1). The expulsion duration was 14.8 ± 2.4 and 19.8 ± 5.1 s for the two groups (P > 0.1). The preload-afterload diagrams demonstrated clockwise loops that clearly differed between the FI subtypes and NS. The DIs showed profound difference between patients and NS. Fecobionics data showed higher correlation with symptoms in FI patients than ARM-BET. Fecobionics obtained novel pressure signatures in subtypes of FI patients and NS. Fecobionics provides DI data that cannot be obtained with ARM-BET.
SERS nanotags for folate receptor α detection at the single cell level: discrimination of overexpressing cells and potential for live cell applications
Authors: Verdin Alexandre , Sloan-Dennison Sian , Malherbe Cedric , Graham Duncan , Eppe Gauthier
Published: June 2022

Development of nanotags based on Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) for the discrimination of cancer cells overexpressing folate receptor α. Nanotags are also applicable for live cell measurements.
Access to high value sp3-rich frameworks using photocatalyzed [2 + 2]-cycloadditions of γ-alkylidene–γ-lactams
Authors: Kalaitzakis Dimitris , Kampouropoulos Ioannis , Sofiadis Manolis , Montagnon Tamsyn , Vassilikogiannakis Georgios
Published: June 2022

By harnessing an energy transfer process, new photocatalyzed [2 + 2]-cycloadditions occurring between γ-alkylidene–γ-lactams and unsaturated substrates have been developed.
Low-frequency dynamics in ionic liquids: comparison of experiments and the random barrier model
Authors: Wang Yangyang
Published: June 2022

The derivative spectrum of ionic liquids broadens at low frequencies when the glass transition is approached from above, which is associated with high activation energy conduction pathways according to the random barrier model.
Facile synthesis of Mn2+ doped ultrathin (n = 2) NPLs and their application in anti-counterfeiting
Authors: Tao Jia qi , Zhang Hu , Bi Wengang , Liu Xiaohui , Fan Chao , Sun Chun
Published: June 2022

Here, we reported the synthesis of Mn2+ doped ultrathin perovskite nanoplatelets (NPLs) by a room temperature method. The highest PLQY is up to 71% when the Mn2+ doping level is 38.6%.
Effect of the substituent on C–H activation catalyzed by a non-heme Fe(iv)O complex: a computational investigation of reactivity and hydrogen tunneling
Authors: Katoch Akanksha , Mandal Debasish
Published: June 2022

Electron-donating substituent on the metal enhances the C–H activation reactivity due to the consequence of quantum mechanical tunneling, which increases with the anti-electrophilicity of the central metal.
Facile synthesis and phase stability of Cu-based Na2Cu(SO4)2·xH2O (x = 0–2) sulfate minerals as conversion type battery electrodes
Authors: Singh Shashwat , Neveu Audric , Jayanthi K. , Das Tisita , Chakraborty Sudip , Navrotsky Alexandra , Pralong Valérie , Barpanda Prabeer
Published: June 2022

Mineral exploration forms a key approach for unveiling functional battery electrode materials.
Decoupling of ion pairing and ion conduction in ultrahigh-concentration electrolytes enables wide-temperature solid-state batteries
Authors: Xu Shengjun , Xu Ruogu , Yu Tong , Chen Ke , Sun Chengguo , Hu Guangjian , Bai Shuo , Cheng Hui-Ming , Sun Zhenhua , Li Feng
Published: June 2022

The S-LHCE strategy with the decoupling of ion pairing and ion conduction is proposed via a freeze-drying method, which realizes the recycling of solvents used and enables solid-state lithium-metal batteries with excellent electrochemical performance.
The impact of the physical state and the reaction phase in the direct mechanocatalytic Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction
Authors: Yoo Kwangho , Fabig Sven , Grätz Sven , Borchardt Lars
Published: June 2022

The direct mechanocatalytic Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction, utilizing palladium milling balls as active catalysts, was investigated regarding the physical state of the reagents and the reaction phase.
Naphthofluorescein-based organic nanoparticles with superior stability for near-infrared photothermal therapy
Authors: An Jing , Tang Shanliang , Feng Erting , Tian Mingyu , Chen Wenlong , Chen Miaomiao , Hong Gaobo , Peng Xiaojun , Song Fengling
Published: June 2022

Photothermal agents (PTAs) based on organic small molecules with near-infrared (NIR) absorption (700–900 nm) have attracted increasing attention in cancer photothermal therapy (PTT).
Tailoring intermolecular interactions in ion gels with rationally designed phosphonic acid polymers
Authors: Kang Sejong , Park Moon Jeong
Published: June 2022

Design strategies of phosphonic acid polymers established advanced ion gels with high ionic conductivity, mechanical strength, and self-healing ability via a configurable balance of ionic and hydrogen bonding interactions at the molecular level.
Molecular and cellular regulation of psoriatic inflammation
Authors: Macleod Tom , Bridgewood Charles , Hyde Isabel , Heague Megan , Helliwell Philip , Stacey Martin , Wittmann Miriam
Published: June 2022

This review highlights the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying psoriatic inflammation with an emphasis on recent developments which may impact on treatment approaches for this chronic disease.

We consider both the skin and the musculoskeletal compartment and how different manifestations of psoriatic inflammation are linked. This review brings a focus to the importance of inflammatory feedback loops that exist in the initiation and chronic stages of the condition, and how close interaction between the epidermis and both innate and adaptive immune compartments drives psoriatic inflammation. Furthermore, we highlight work done on biomarkers to predict the outcome of therapy as well as the transition from psoriasis to psoriatic arthritis.
A review of fault diagnosis, prognosis and health management for aircraft electromechanical actuators
Authors: Yin Zhengyang , Hu Niaoqing , Chen Jiageng , Yang Yi , Shen Guoji
Published: June 2022

As More/All Electric Aircraft gradually become a research hotspot, electromechanical actuators (EMAs), which can directly convert electrical energy into mechanical energy, have gained more and more attention. However, since the reliability of EMA cannot meet the requirements of actual aircrafts, the practical application of EMA is severely limited. Therefore, fault diagnosis, prognosis and health management (DPHM), which can realise condition‐based maintenance (CBM), has become the key technology in the application of EMA. The aim is to summarise the research on EMA fault modes, fault diagnosis, prognosis and health management systematically and comprehensively. First, the basic structure and common fault modes of EMAs are introduced, and the failure mechanism of EMA is studied. Then, the algorithms of DPHM for EMAs are reviewed in detail. The perception strategies of data acquisition are analysed, and the EMA fault diagnosis methods, including model‐based and data‐driven methods, are reviewed. The research of remaining useful life (RUL) prediction and fault‐tolerant control are introduced. After that, some problems of the existing research on EMA DPHM and their potential solutions are put forward. Finally, several possible developing directions of research on EMA DPHM are predicted.
Towards transactive energy: An analysis of information‐related practical issues
Authors: Chen Yue , Yang Yu , Xu Xiaoyuan
Published: June 2022

The development of distributed energy resources, such as rooftop photovoltaic (PV) panels, batteries, and electric vehicles (EVs), has decentralized the power system operation, where transactive energy markets empower local energy exchanges. Transactive energy contributes to building a low‐carbon energy system by better matching the distributed renewable sources and demand. Effective market mechanisms are a key part of transactive energy market design. Despite fruitful research on related topics, some practical challenges must be addressed. This review surveys three practical issues related to information exchange in transactive energy markets: asynchronous computing, truthful reporting, and privacy preservation. The state‐of‐the‐art results are summarized and relevant multidisciplinary theories are introduced. Based on these findings, several potential research directions are suggested that could provide insights for future studies.
An improved point feature‐based sparse stereo vision
Authors: Chen Changhao , Song Bifeng , Bu Shuhui , He Lei
Published: June 2022

Since the limitation on the onboard equipment, the sparse stereo vision is becoming a suitable choice for the deployment of micro air vehicles (MAV) and small robots. However, for the point feature‐based sparse stereo, most of the current stereo algorithms ignore the similarity between feature points, so it is hard to achieve high accuracy. In addition, the problem of clustered feature distribution will still affect the performance of point feature‐based algorithms in the application. To make up for these deficiencies, the authors propose an improved features from accelerated segment test (FAST) feature detector to suppress the point detection in complex texture regions. Most importantly, the authors present a novel census transform (CT)‐based algorithm that contains two encoders ‘texture orientation’ and ‘texture gradient’ to get a more efficient census bit string for the feature point. Instead of randomly selecting pixels to calculate the bit string, we combine the texture characteristics of the census windows where feature points are located. Compared with the original CT, the processing speed of our method is improved, and the average error of our method is reduced by 18.05%. The evaluation results show the presented improved point feature‐based sparse stereo algorithm has a great value in engineering applications.
A novel detail weighted histogram equalization method for brightness preserving image enhancement based on partial statistic and global mapping model
Authors: Li Yu , Yuan Zifeng , Zheng Kun , Jia Luheng , Guo Huaqiu , Pan Hongyuan , Guo Jingjing , Huang Lidong
Published: June 2022

Histogram equalization (HE) is a classic and widely used image contrast enhancement algorithm for its good performance and high efficiency. However, over‐enhancement caused by high peak in the histogram affects the subjective quality of the image processed by HE to a large extent. In this paper, a detail weighted histogram equalization (DWHE) method is proposed based on a novel histogram modification (HM) model named partial statistic and global mapping (PSGM) to alleviate high peak and suppress over‐enhancement. Moreover, the authors implement a refined version of gamma correction (GC) named texture enhancement function (TEF) on high‐frequency images to reduce the noise amplification effect. At last, the authors propose a novel adaptively weighted pixel‐level image fusion method to further reduce the phenomenon of over‐enhancement and improve brightness distribution. Both subjective and quantitative evaluations are conducted on images containing a variety of scenes. Compared with several state‐of‐the‐art image enhancement methods, the proposed framework obtained generally the best performance in aspects of both subjective appearance and objective evaluation indices. Therefore, it is proved that the proposed methods can effectively alleviate the over‐enhancement, enrich image details, and efficiently improve the visual quality while preserving the brightness of the image.
Two‐stage planning of synchronous distributed generations in distribution network considering protection coordination index and optimal operation situation
Authors: Sadeghi S. Mohsen , Daryalal Mehdi , Abasi Mahyar
Published: June 2022

This paper presents economic planning of synchronous distributed generations (SDGs) constrained to protection and operation indices in the distribution network. The proposed scheme has a two‐stage formulation. In the first stage, optimal protection coordination (OPC) is modelled in the first phase in a network without SDGs. This phase considers the total operating time of all overvoltage relays in primary and backup protective modes for different fault locations constrained to the coordination interval and setting parameters of the relays. Then, candidate buses and maximum installable size of SDGs are extracted in the second phase in proportion to preserving the OPC based on calculating the protection coordination index (PCI). In the second stage, bi‐objective planning of SDGs is modelled based on the results extracted in the first stage. In this stage, minimization of the weighted sum of planning cost of SDGs is presented by taking into account optimal AC power flow constraints and operation‐planning model of SDGs. By implementing the scheme on standard distribution networks, numerical results verify the validity of the suggested scheme in maintaining the protection coordination when placing SDGs in distribution network and enhancing economic and operation indices in comparison to power flow studies.