bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Unusual Case of Radial Club Hand
Authors: WALDRAM M. A.
Published: December 2021

An unusual form of congenital hand deformity is described. It consists of radial club hand deformity with the whole of the radius present but dislocated at proximal and distal ends. This best fits “failure of development” group in the conventional classification. The future management will depend on whether the forearm grows at the same rate on the pre-axial and post-axial sides.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Carpal Tunnel
Authors: HEALY C. , WATSON J. D. , LONGSTAFF A. , CAMPBELL M. J.
Published: December 2021

Eleven wrists in eight patients with carpal tunnel syndrome were investigated by electrophysiological studies and magnetic resonance imaging (M.R.I.). The operative findings in ten wrists correlated with the M.R.I. evidence of synovial disease, carpal tunnel stenosis and median nerve compression.
Psychological Aspects of Hand Injuries their Treatment and Rehabilitation
Authors: HAESE JULIA B.
Published: December 2021

Psychological factors related to the treatment and rehabilitation of hand-injured patients were identified by interviewing of thirty patients under treatment. Findings were compared with those reported in the literature.

Concern for inactivity, desire to return to work, and effort toward recovery were identified as significantly common factors; pain and fear of disfigurement were not. Patients perceived themselves as making the greatest effort toward recovery but not that this was the most important factor in the recovery process. Responsibility varied significantly among the early, middle, and final phases of treatment. The results of the investigation were discussed in relation to hand-rehabilitation and implications for counselling and occupational therapy.
A Simple Device for the Objective Evaluation of Peripheral Nerve Injuries
Authors: WILSON G. R.
Published: December 2021

A quick and simple method of measuring the electrical resistance of the skin is presented as an objective test of peripheral nerve injury. Patterns of altered skin resistance in patients with nerve injuries were found to coincide with operative findings. The method can be used in the preoperative assessment of hand injuries and to monitor the recovery of nerve function.
The Mechanical Properties of Human Flexor Tendons in Relation to Artificial Tendons
Authors: PRING D. J. , AMIS A. A. , COOMBS R. R. H.
Published: December 2021

The continuation of an unacceptable failure rate with tendon repair or grafting procedures, largely due to adhesions, suggested that an artificial flexor tendon could be an attractive alternative. A literature search found no published data of the mechanical properties of fresh human finger flexor tendons, so a study of the strength and extensibility of 153 tendons was carried out. The bone insertion strength of twenty middle finger tendons was also examined. The results showed that an artificial tendon should have a strength of approximately 1500N, and that it should extend 13% at that load, an elongation of 26mm for a tendon 200mm long. The insertion strength was less than a half of the tendon strength. This data will allow an artificial flexor tendon to be designed with sufficient strength and the correct elastic properties to allow its function to integrate reliably with natural tendons in adjacent fingers.
Sensory Reinnervation of Muscles Following Nerve Section and Suture in Cats
Authors: BANKS R. W. , BARKER D. , BROWN H. G.
Published: December 2021

The common peroneal nerve was transected and repaired by epineurial suture in nine cats. In a further nine the nerve was transected twice and similarly repaired so as to produce a short autograft. Recovery of stretch receptors in peroneus brevis was monitored histologically and physiologically from six to fifty weeks. In recovery after single neurotomy functionally identifiable muscle-spindle and tendon-organ afferents were reduced to 25% and 45% of normal, respectively; after double neurotomy (autograft) both were reduced to about 10% of normal. Muscle spindles were reinnervated with annulospiral terminals, or wholly abnormal fine axon terminals, or both. Recovery evidently entails not only a reduction in number of stretch afferents, but also the making of some incorrect reconnections that presumably result in abnormal proprioceptive feedback and reflex action. When a graft is used the sensory impairment is compounded.
Delayed Repair of the Ulnar Nerve
Authors: TRAIL I. A.
Published: December 2021

The case of a fifteen-year-old child where the delay between division and successful repair of the ulnar nerve was nine years is presented. This case and a review of the literature emphasise the importance of repairing nerves in children irrespective of the time interval between division and repair.
Dermofasciectomy and Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Replacement in Dupuytren’s Disease
Authors: TONKIN M. A. , LENNON W. P.
Published: December 2021

A case of Dupuytren’s Disease is presented in which a combination of dermofasciectomy and proximal interphalangeal joint replacement using a Swanson’s prosthesis improved hand function and avoided further digit amputation.
Radical Digital Dermofasciectomy in Dupuytren’s Disease
Authors: LOGAN A. M. , BROWN H. G. , LEWIS-SMITH P.
Published: December 2021

Fifteen dermofasciectomies, the excision extending from the distal palmar crease to the distal interphalangeal crease and carried out to the midaxial line on either side are reviewed, stressing the good take of skin graft in well vascularised fingers. The technique is strongly recommended as the first line of treatment in recurrent digital Dupuytren’s contracture.
Carpal Tunnel Release: Analysis of Suboptimal Results
Authors: EASON S. Y. , BELSOLE R. J. , GREENE T. L.
Published: December 2021

The results of carpal tunnel release are generally good, but not all patients obtain complete and long lasting relief. Persistence of signs and symptoms after adequate decompression of the median nerve is uncommon. Forty-seven suboptimal results in thirty-four patients have been evaluated to determine the reasons for failure. Thirty-eight of the suboptimal results (81%) were associated with the persistent neck pain and/or abnormal cervical radiographs (typically narrowing of C5–6 and/or C6–7 disc spaces). This retrospective review supports a “double crush” phenomenon that influences both the manifestations of carpal tunnel syndrome and the outcome of its treatment.
Clinical Fracture of the Carpal Scaphoid— An Illusionary Diagnosis
Authors: DUNCAN D. S. , THURSTON A. J.
Published: December 2021

The management of patients with clinical evidence of a fracture of the carpal scaphoid bone but without radiological evidence of a fracture is based on dogma emphasizing the need to immobilize the wrist in all cases. Because of the apparently high proportion of patients who spend up to six weeks in a plaster cast and in whom no fracture is ever demonstrated radiologically, a study was undertaken to determine the fate of those wrist injuries diagnosed as clinical fractures of the scaphoid.

All patients who presented with clinical or radiological evidence of fractures of the scaphoid over a one year period were reviewed. Of the 108 patients in whom the diagnosis of clinical fracture of the scaphoid was made at the time of presentation none was proved radiologically to have a fracture of the scaphoid subsequently after a period of mobilization. These patients spent an average time of 21.9 days in a plaster cast which represents a significant loss of productivity to the community and inconvenience to the patient.
Translunate, Transmetacarpal, Scapho-Radial Fracture with Perilunate Dislocation A Case Report
Authors: TOFT P. , BERTHEUSSEN K. , OTKJAER S.
Published: December 2021

A case translunate, transmetacarpal, scapho-radial fracture with perilunate dislocation occurred as a young man drove his motorcycle into the side of a car. Closed reduction was performed initially. Open reduction was performed with a screw in the lunate. Eighteen months later the screw was removed and after two and a half years x-rays revealed no signs of avascular necrosis or arthrosis. The patient fully recovered. This case stresses the necessity of open reduction in cases of complicated carpal fracture dislocations.
Isolated Dislocation of Carpal Scaphoid
Authors: AMAMILO S. C. , UPPAL R. , SAMUEL A. W.
Published: December 2021

The functional role of the scaphoid in stabilising the wrist joint is discussed and the literature on scaphoid dislocations reviewed.

A case of isolated dislocation of the scaphoid has been presented with the salient diagnostic features and preferred line of management which includes percutaneous Kirschner-wire fixation to ensure maintenance of the reduction.
Tenosynovial Chondroma of the Hand
Authors: NAVER L. , BAK-JENSEN E. , ANDERSEN S.
Published: December 2021

A case of tenosynovial chondroma of the left middle finger is presented. The treatment of this benign lesion is local excision.
Osteoid Osteoma of the Pisiform
Authors: KERNOHAN J. , BEACON J. P. , DAKIN P. K. , HELAL B.
Published: December 2021

Osteoid osteoma of the pisiform seems not to have been previously reported. In both the cases reported in this paper there was diagnostic difficulty and delay. Complete surgical removal of the nidus was curative.
Chondrosarcoma of the Thumb A case report of treatment with preservation of function
Authors: CALVERT P. T. , MacLELLAN G. E. , SULLIVAN M. F.
Published: December 2021

A case of chondrosarcoma of the thumb treated by excision and reconstruction with a free bone graft is reported. The patient regained excellent function. The indication for this method of conservative resection is discussed.
Outpatient antifungal prescribing patterns in the United States, 2018
Authors: Benedict Kaitlin , Tsay Sharon V. , Bartoces Monina G. , Vallabhaneni Snigdha , Jackson Brendan R. , Hicks Lauri A.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Widespread inappropriate antibiotic prescribing is a major driver of resistance. Little is known about antifungal prescribing practices in the United States, which is concerning given emerging resistance in fungi, particularly to azole antifungal agents.

Objective:

We analyzed outpatient antifungal prescribing data in the United States to inform stewardship efforts.

Design:

Descriptive analysis of outpatient antifungal prescriptions dispensed during 2018 in the IQVIA Xponent database.

Methods:

Prescriptions were summarized by drug, sex, age, geography, and healthcare provider specialty. Census denominators were used to calculate prescribing rates among demographic groups.

Results:

Healthcare providers prescribed 22.4 million antifungal courses in 2018 (68 prescriptions per 1,000 persons). Fluconazole was the most commonly prescribed drug (75%), followed by terbinafine (11%) and nystatin (10%). Prescription rates were higher among females versus males (110 vs 25 per 1,000 population) and adults versus children (82 vs 27 per 1,000 population). Prescription rates were highest in the South (81 per 1,000 population) and lowest in the West (48 per 1,000 population). Nurse practitioners and family practitioners prescribed the most antifungals (43% of all prescriptions), but the highest prescribing rates were among obstetrician-gynecologists (84 per provider).

Conclusions:

Prescribing antifungal drugs in the outpatient setting is common, with enough courses dispensed for 1 in every 15 US residents in 2018. Fluconazole use patterns suggest vulvovaginal candidiasis as a common indication. Regional prescribing differences could reflect inappropriate use or variations in disease burden. Further study of higher antifungal use in the South could help target antifungal stewardship practices.
Increasing personal data contributions for the greater public good: a field experiment on an online education platform
Authors: Ackfeld Viola , Rohloff Tobias , Rzepka Sylvi
Published: December 2021

Personal data increasingly serve as inputs to public goods. Like other types of contributions to public goods, personal data are likely to be underprovided. We investigate whether classical remedies to underprovision are also applicable to personal data and whether the privacy-sensitive nature of personal data must be additionally accounted for. In a randomized field experiment on a public online education platform, we prompt users to complete their profiles with personal information. Compared to a control message, we find that making public benefits salient increases the number of personal data contributions significantly. This effect is even stronger when additionally emphasizing privacy protection, especially for sensitive information. Our results further suggest that emphasis on both public benefits and privacy protection attracts personal data from a more diverse set of contributors.
How employee perceptions of HR practices in schools relate to employee work engagement and job performance
Authors: Van Beurden Jeske , Van Veldhoven Marc , Van De Voorde Karina
Published: December 2021

This study examines how employee perceptions of the availability and the (in)effectiveness of human resource (HR) practices in schools relate to employee performance via work engagement. Incorporating the views of 208 Dutch primary and secondary education teachers, this study's findings show that both the availability and effectiveness of HR practices are positively associated with teacher work engagement and in turn job performance. However, when employees perceive the available HR practices as effective, this has a stronger effect on teacher work engagement compared to when they only perceive the HR practices as available. Moreover, results show that HR practices that are mentioned as available, but considered ineffective, are negatively related to employee engagement and job performance. Finally, our results provide initial evidence for potential differential effects of ability-, motivation- and opportunity-enhancing HR bundles on work engagement and job performance, depending on whether the availability, ineffectiveness or effectiveness of HR practices is studied.
Upland rice intercropped with green manures and its impact on the succession with common bean
Authors: Meirelles F. C. , Cavalcante A. G. , Gonzaga A. R. , Filla V. A. , Roms R. Z. , Coelho A. P. , Arf O. , Lemos L. B.
Published: December 2021

The aim of this work was to verify the possibility of intercropping rice with green manures, as well as the impact of the dry biomass yield of these intercropping systems on common bean in succession, evaluating the agronomic and qualitative performance of grains from both crops. The experiment was conducted in Southeastern Brazil in the years 2018 and 2019, with succession of rice (spring/summer) and common bean (autumn/winter). The treatments were composed of cropping systems with rice as a sole crop and intercropped with forage peanut, calopo, Crotalaria breviflora, Crotalaria spectabilis, stylo, jack bean and dwarf pigeon pea. No intercropping increased the system's yield compared to sole-crop rice, but intercropping of rice with forage peanut and stylo promoted grain yield and quality similar to those of sole-crop rice. Intercropping with C. breviflora affected the agronomic and qualitative performance of rice. Common bean yield after rice intercropped with dwarf pigeon pea, C. spectabilis and C. breviflora was similar in yield after sole-crop rice, while the other intercrops reduced common bean yield. Common bean grain quality was not affected by the cultivation of rice as sole crop and intercropped with green manures. Although none of the intercropping systems increased yield compared to sole-crop rice (control), it can be concluded that the intercropping of upland rice is viable depending on the green manure species, allowing greater biomass production per area that can help long-term soil conservation and increase the system's yield.
Medicine characteristics affecting the time to guidance publication by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the single technology appraisal process
Authors: Takada Shunsuke , Narukawa Mamoru
Published: December 2021

Objective

In England, the time gap between marketing authorization (MA) and guidance publication by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) can limit patients’ access to new medicines. In this study, our aim was to identify medicine characteristics associated with the long time gap between MA and guidance publication and explore the influencing factors.

Methods

We identified 116 single technology appraisals from 2016 to 2020 using publicly available data, and extracted information on the year of appraisal completion, application type, experiences of similar appraisals, orphan medicinal products (OMPs), cancer medicines, and accelerated assessment. Multiple regression analyses were performed to analyze the associations between the medicine characteristics and key time periods related to health technology assessment and MA processes.

Results

OMPs were associated with a long period between MA and guidance publication. Specifically, OMPs and cancer medicines were associated with slow guidance publication after the final scope (FS) development. However, there was no association between OMPs and the period between validation of MA application and FS development. Non-double-blinded randomized clinical trials and the use of comparators not specified in the FS were associated with slow guidance publication after the FS development.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that OMPs are associated with a longer period between MA and guidance publication by the NICE than non-OMPs; this may be attributed to the slow guidance publication after the FS development. These findings indicate the necessity to shorten the appraisal process for OMPs.
Introducing the Networked Music Performance Library
Authors: Pilchen Daniil , Wilson Rebekah
Published: December 2021

In this article we present the Networked Music Performance Library, which documents research and practice in the field of networked music performance. The library was developed in response to the skyrocketing interest in networked music due to social distancing and travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. In this article, we discuss the library’s working environment and briefly describe several similar earlier projects by other researchers. The main goals we set for the library were to collect materials, organise accessible and straightforward ways of navigating the collection, including knowledge from a wider context of time-based arts (theatre, dance and other time-based art forms), and create a community of users and contributors. We describe the main methods we use to find the works for the library and examine the current state of our collection, which has grown in the last year. Through an analysis of the entries’ metadata, we provide several examples of professionals’ use of the library. Current library users include performing musicians, teachers and composers. As the project is ongoing, we outline the scope of our future work as well as analyse several possible post-COVID applications for networked music, which include assisting socially isolated musicians, teaching, travel and new pandemics. We also show how this library could contribute to the development of new electroacoustic approaches.
Students’ perceptions of school sugar-free, food and exercise environments enhance healthy eating and physical activity
Authors: Liu Chieh-Hsing , Chang Fong-Ching , Niu Yu-Zhen , Liao Li-Ling , Chang Yen-Jung , Liao Yung , Shih Shu-Fang
Published: December 2021

Objective:

The objective of this study was to examine the relationships between students’ perceptions of their school policies and environments (i.e. sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) free policy, plain water drinking, vegetables and fruit eating campaign, outdoor physical activity initiative, and the SH150 programme (exercise 150 min/week at school)) and their dietary behaviours and physical activity.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Primary, middle and high schools in Taiwan.

Participants:

A nationally representative sample of 2433 primary school (5th–6th grade) students, 3212 middle school students and 2829 high school students completed the online survey in 2018.

Results:

Multivariate analysis results showed that after controlling for school level, gender and age, the students’ perceptions of school sugar-free policies were negatively associated with the consumption of SSB and positively associated with consumption of plain water. Schools’ campaigns promoting the eating of vegetables and fruit were positively associated with students’ consumption of vegetables. In addition, schools’ initiatives promoting outdoor physical activity and the SH150 programme were positively associated with students’ engagement in outdoor physical activities and daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity.

Conclusions:

Students’ perceptions of healthy school policies and environments promote healthy eating and an increase in physical activity for students.
Whose History?: The Americas and Music Curricula in the United States
Authors: Santana M. Leslie
Published: December 2021

One moment from the much-discussed 2017 curriculum reform in the Music Department at Harvard University has stuck with me and transformed the way I approach teaching music in higher education. In one of the meetings leading up to the revision, graduate students in the department led an activity in which attendees—who included undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty alike—got into small groups and discussed the relative merits of three hypothetical models for the new undergraduate curriculum. Each of the models involved decentering to some extent the existing curriculum's emphasis on the history of Western European music and dominant music theoretical approaches to it. After a short while, we all gathered back together and one person from each group shared a bit about what had transpired. From the circle of desks nearest the door, an undergraduate student rose to speak and expressed enthusiasm for a broadening of curricular coverages. But, they said, their group also had some reservations about jettisoning the overall focus on Western European concert music altogether. “We still need to learn about our history,” they said, while a faculty member nodded behind them.
Teaching Freedom Song as Antiracist Praxis
Authors: Stacks Stephen
Published: December 2021

In the teaching of history, oversimplification is, perhaps, unavoidable. In certain cases, however, that oversimplification can be deadly. There are some lessons that are too complex, some stories that are too nuanced, to be reduced in such a way. By their contours and particularities, they resist easy digestion. In the spirit of this particularity, my contribution to the colloquy is specific, but hopefully applicable to contexts beyond its specificity: I argue that the US Black Freedom Movement (or civil rights movement) and its music is a story that must be taught in all its complexity, for oversimplifying it does concrete harm to the ongoing struggle against white supremacy in the present. Teaching the US Black Freedom Movement and its music is also vital if we hope to enable our students to be forces of understanding, healing, and justice in the world, and should be an integral component of any undergraduate music curriculum that hopes to be antiracist.
In search of James Croll: archives, genealogy, publications and other resources
Authors: EDWARDS Kevin J.
Published: December 2021

Source materials for investigating the life of James Croll are examined and collated. This is organised around the topics of: Croll's Autobiographical sketch and the Memoir of his life and work, both contained within the volume produced by James Campbell Irons; publications by Croll; aspects of his genealogy; manuscript sources in publicly accessible archives and in private ownership; and other published sources.
Association between intake of sodium, potassium, sodium-to-potassium ratio, and blood pressure among US adults
Authors: Bhagavathula Akshaya Srikanth , Refaat Shahd Ayman , Bentley Barry L. , Rahmani Jamal
Published: December 2021

Abstract: High dietary sodium and low potassium intake is associated with high blood pressure (BP). The current study aimed to determine if the sodium-to-potassium ratio is more strongly associated with low (130–139/80–89 mm Hg) and high (≥140/90 mm Hg) BP thresholds among US adults than either sodium or potassium alone. A total of 30,776 patients aged ≥20 years with complete blood pressure participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2003 to 2018. Demographic information and health characteristics were compared between men and women using the chi-square test for categorical variables and independent samples t-test for continuous variables. Logistic regression was performed to investigate the association of the odds ratios (OR) of different levels of sodium, potassium, and sodium-to-potassium ratio. After multivariable adjustment (age, gender, Body mass index, Smoking, education, Race, Alcohol, total energy intake, and physical activity), no relationship has been observed between high versus low sodium-to-potassium ratio and BP threshold of 130–139/80–89 mm Hg (odds ratio [OR]: 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92–1.12). Higher sodium-to-potassium ratio (OR=1.24; CI: 1.11–1.38) and dietary intake of potassium (OR=0.66; CI: 0.55–0.80) showed significant association in reducing the BP threshold of ≥140/90 mm Hg. In dose-response analysis, higher BP ≥140/90 mm Hg was inversely associated with higher potassium intake. Furthermore, the sodium-to-potassium ratio showed higher odds in predicting the BP of patients aged ≤60 years, underweight, nonsmokers, and non-alcohol users. The study confirms an inverse association between higher potassium intake and higher BP threshold. The Doses-response analyses showed sodium-to-potassium ratio is a better predictor of BP thresholds than sodium or potassium alone.
NFAT inhibitor 11R-VIVIT ameliorates mouse renal fibrosis after ischemia-reperfusion-induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Xie Zhi-yong , Dong Wei , Zhang Li , Wang Meng-jie , Xiao Zhen-meng , Zhang Yu-hua , Shi Wan-xin , Huang Ying , Yang Yan , Li Cui-li , Fu Lei , Zhao Xing-chen , Li Rui-zhao , Li Zhi-lian , Chen Yuan-han , Ye Zhi-ming , Liu Shuang-xin , Dong Zheng , Liang Xin-ling
Published: December 2021

Acute kidney injury (AKI) with maladaptive tubular repair leads to renal fibrosis and progresses to chronic kidney disease (CKD). At present, there is no curative drug to interrupt AKI-to-CKD progression. The nuclear factor of the activated T cell (NFAT) family was initially identified as a transcription factor expressed in most immune cells and involved in the transcription of cytokine genes and other genes critical for the immune response. NFAT2 is also expressed in renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) and podocytes and plays an important regulatory role in the kidney. In this study, we investigated the renoprotective effect of 11R-VIVIT, a peptide inhibitor of NFAT, on renal fibrosis in the AKI-to-CKD transition and the underlying mechanisms. We first examined human renal biopsy tissues and found that the expression of NFAT2 was significantly increased in RTECs in patients with severe renal fibrosis. We then established a mouse model of AKI-to-CKD transition using bilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury (Bi-IRI). The mice were treated with 11R-VIVIT (5 mg/kg, i.p.) on Days 1, 3, 10, 17 and 24 after Bi-IRI. We showed that the expression of NFAT2 was markedly increased in RTECs in the AKI-to-CKD transition. 11R-VIVIT administration significantly inhibited the nuclear translocation of NFAT2 in RTECs, decreased the levels of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, and attenuated renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis but had no toxic side effects on the heart and liver. In addition, we showed that 11R-VIVIT administration alleviated RTEC apoptosis after Bi-IRI. Consistently, preapplication of 11R-VIVIT (100 nM) and transfection with NFAT2-targeted siRNA markedly suppressed TGFβ-induced HK-2 cell apoptosis in vitro. In conclusion, 11R-VIVIT administration inhibits IRI-induced NFAT2 activation and prevents AKI-to-CKD progression. Inhibiting NFAT2 may be a promising new therapeutic strategy for preventing renal fibrosis after IR-AKI.
An empirical study on quality of life and related factors of Pakistani breast cancer survivors
Authors: Azam Muhammad , Aslam Muhammad , Basharat Javeria , Mughal Muhammad Anwar , Nadeem Muhammad Shahid , Anwar Firoz
Published: December 2021

A comprehensive understanding of the quality of life (QoL) is essential to establish long-term survivor care plans. The present study was aimed at the assessment of QoL of BC survivors with special emphasis on post-treatment physical, emotional, social, and spiritual challenges. We have assessed the QoL of 250 female BC survivors of all age groups through demographic factors. Volunteer BC survivors were registered in the present study who had got treatment from the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology (INMOL) hospital and Mayo hospital Lahore. An informed consent form was signed by each participant. The physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being was evaluated by a questionnaire filled with the help of respondents. The average age of BC survivors was 52 ± 7.8 years. Most of them (83%) complained of fatigue during daily life activities, 75.1% body pain or headache, 77.1% had problems with appetite, 63.2% reported weight loss, 77.1% had sleep problems, and 90.5% were feeling general weakness. Only 16.2% were satisfied with their physical health and 2% were not satisfied with their medication. Psychologically, 74.4% were feeling different levels of anxiety, only 10% of them were hoping to achieve a desired life. Age group 21 to 40 years reported better physical health, those with 40–50 years of age and family history of BC have shown better mental strength. The physical and psychological health of survivors from rural areas was comparatively better than those from urban areas. The BC survivor women have to face several physical, psychological and social challenges. The majorities of them complain of anxiety, body pain, fatigue, sleep problems, general weakness, and fear about the future. Our findings suggest the need for psychological support, physical activity a comprehensive post-diagnosis and post-treatment physical and mental health assistance plan for all BC survivors. Implications for Cancer Survivors. Survivors of breast cancer experience various challenges including anxiety, sleep problems, body pain, fatigue, and fear about the future. The psychological, physical and social factors make a great difference in their quality of life.
The bacterial promoter spacer modulates promoter strength and timing by length, TG-motifs and DNA supercoiling sensitivity
Authors: Klein Carlo A. , Teufel Marc , Weile Carl J. , Sobetzko Patrick
Published: December 2021

Transcription, the first step to gene expression, is a central coordination process in all living matter. Besides a plethora of regulatory mechanisms, the promoter architecture sets the foundation of expression strength, timing and the potential for further regulatory modulation. In this study, we investigate the effects of promoter spacer length and sequence composition on strength and supercoiling sensitivity in bacteria. Combining transcriptomics data analysis and standardized synthetic promoter libraries, we exclude effects of specific promoter sequence contexts. Analysis of promoter activity shows a strong variance with spacer length and spacer sequence composition. A detailed study of the spacer sequence composition under selective conditions reveals an extension to the -10 region that enhances RNAP binding but damps promoter activity. Using physiological changes in DNA supercoiling levels, we link promoter supercoiling sensitivity to overall spacer GC-content. Time-resolved promoter activity screens, only possible with a novel mild treatment approach, reveal strong promoter timing potentials solely based on DNA supercoiling sensitivity in the absence of regulatory sites or alternative sigma factors.
Identification of a glucose-insensitive variant of Gal2 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae exhibiting a high pentose transport capacity
Authors: Rojas Sebastian A. Tamayo , Schadeweg Virginia , Kirchner Ferdinand , Boles Eckhard , Oreb Mislav
Published: December 2021

As abundant carbohydrates in renewable feedstocks, such as pectin-rich and lignocellulosic hydrolysates, the pentoses arabinose and xylose are regarded as important substrates for production of biofuels and chemicals by engineered microbial hosts. Their efficient transport across the cellular membrane is a prerequisite for economically viable fermentation processes. Thus, there is a need for transporter variants exhibiting a high transport rate of pentoses, especially in the presence of glucose, another major constituent of biomass-based feedstocks. Here, we describe a variant of the galactose permease Gal2 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Gal2N376Y/M435I), which is fully insensitive to competitive inhibition by glucose, but, at the same time, exhibits an improved transport capacity for xylose compared to the wildtype protein. Due to this unique property, it significantly reduces the fermentation time of a diploid industrial yeast strain engineered for efficient xylose consumption in mixed glucose/xylose media. When the N376Y/M435I mutations are introduced into a Gal2 variant resistant to glucose-induced degradation, the time necessary for the complete consumption of xylose is reduced by approximately 40%. Moreover, Gal2N376Y/M435I confers improved growth of engineered yeast on arabinose. Therefore, it is a valuable addition to the toolbox necessary for valorization of complex carbohydrate mixtures.
Proteomic mapping of atrial and ventricular heart tissue in patients with aortic valve stenosis
Authors: Barbarics Boris , Eildermann Katja , Kaderali Lars , Cyganek Lukas , Plessmann Uwe , Bodemeyer Julius , Paul Thomas , Ströbel Philipp , Urlaub Henning , Tirilomis Theodorus , Lenz Christof , Bohnenberger Hanibal
Published: December 2021

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is one of the most common valve diseases in the world. However, detailed biological understanding of the myocardial changes in AVS hearts on the proteome level is still lacking. Proteomic studies using high-resolution mass spectrometry of formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) human myocardial tissue of AVS-patients are very rare due to methodical issues. To overcome these issues this study used high resolution mass spectrometry in combination with a stem cell-derived cardiac specific protein quantification-standard to profile the proteomes of 17 atrial and 29 left ventricular myocardial FFPE human myocardial tissue samples from AVS-patients. In our proteomic analysis we quantified a median of 1980 (range 1495–2281) proteins in every single sample and identified significant upregulation of 239 proteins in atrial and 54 proteins in ventricular myocardium. We compared the proteins with published data. Well studied proteins reflect disease-related changes in AVS, such as cardiac hypertrophy, development of fibrosis, impairment of mitochondria and downregulated blood supply. In summary, we provide both a workflow for quantitative proteomics of human FFPE heart tissue and a comprehensive proteomic resource for AVS induced changes in the human myocardium.
Correlation of ACE2 with RAS components after Losartan treatment in light of COVID-19
Authors: Zaheer Javeria , Kim Hyeongi , Kim Jin Su
Published: December 2021

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an important factor in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) interactions. Losartan (LOS) belongs to the angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) family. Additionally, the protective role of ACE2 restored by LOS has been suggested and clinically examined in the treatment of COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, clinical trials with LOS have been conducted. However, the mechanism through which LOS enhances ACE2 expression remains unclear. In addition, the response of ACE2 to LOS differs among patients. Our LOS-treated patient data revealed a correlated mechanism of ACE2 with components of the renin-angiotensinogen system. We observed a significant positive regulation of MAS1 and ACE2 expression. In the context of LOS treatment of COVID-19, ACE2 expression could depend on LOS regulated MAS1. Thus, MAS1 expression could predict the COVID-19 treatment response of LOS.
Reactivity of molybdenum–nitride complex bearing pyridine-based PNP-type pincer ligand toward carbon-centered electrophiles
Authors: Itabashi Takayuki , Arashiba Kazuya , Kuriyama Shogo , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: December 2021

A molybdenum–nitride complex bearing a pyridine-based PNP-type pincer ligand derived from dinitrogen is reacted with various kinds of carbon-centered electrophiles to functionalize the nitride ligand in the molybdenum complex.
Release of microplastic fibres and fragmentation to billions of nanoplastics from period products: preliminary assessment of potential health implications
Authors: Munoz Leonardo Pantoja , Baez Alejandra Gonzalez , Purchase Diane , Jones Huw , Garelick Hemda
Published: December 2021

Health effects related to the plastic content of disposable period products have not been recognized or scientifically addressed.
Emergent hydrogen bonding in dense LiOD
Authors: Ridley Christopher J. , Bull Craig L. , Funnell Nicholas P.
Published: December 2021

Lithium hydroxide transforms to an extensively hydrogen-bonded structure under applied pressure. The first direct structural evidence of this is presented.
Multi-omic characterisation ofStreptomyces hygroscopicusNRRL 30439: detailed assessment of its secondary metabolic potential
Authors: Barry Craig P. , Gillane Rosemary , Talbo Gert H. , Plan Manual , Palfreyman Robin , Haber-Stuk Andrea K , Power John , Nielsen Lars K , Marcellin Esteban
Published: December 2021

A multi-omic approach gives a detailed time-resolved insight into the secondary metabolic capacity ofStreptomyces hygroscopicus.
Revisiting the outstanding questions in cancer nanomedicine with a future outlook
Authors: Sudheesh M. S. , Pavithran K. , M Sabitha
Published: December 2021

EPR, enhanced permeability and retention effect; ABC, accelerated blood clearance; TME, tumour microenvironment.
Microwave-assisted palladium catalysed C–H acylation with aldehydes: synthesis and diversification of 3-acylthiophenes
Authors: Santiago Carlos , Jiménez-Aberasturi Xabier , Leicea Eztizen , Lete Marta G. , Sotomayor Nuria , Lete Esther
Published: December 2021

A variety of 3-acylthiophenes were obtainedviaradical Pd(ii)-catalysed acylation under microwave irradiation. Further diversification led to potentially active compounds (e.g.thiazolylhydrazones) or fluorescent 4H-thieno[2,3-a]indolizinium salts.
One-step synthesis of indolizino[3,4,5-ab]isoindoles by manganese(i)-catalyzed C–H activation: structural studies and photophysical properties
Authors: Cembellín Sara , Maisuls Iván , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Osthues Helena , Doltsinis Nikos L. , Strassert Cristian A. , Glorius Frank
Published: December 2021

A selective synthesis of relevant fluorescent compounds, indolizino[3,4,5-ab]isoindoles (INIs), through a Mn(i)-catalyzed C–H activation on readily available 2-phenylpyridines is described.
Pd-Catalyzed direct C–H arylation of pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines
Authors: Hao Di , Yang Zhen , Liu Yali , Li Yang , Li Chuntian , Gu Yanlong , Vaccaro Luigi , Liu Jichang , Liu Ping
Published: December 2021

An efficient Pd-catalyzed direct C–H arylation of pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines with aryl iodides is described, providing a series of 1-arylated and 1,3-diarylated pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines in good yields.
Synthesis of 2-hydroxytetrahydrofurans by Wacker-type oxidation of 1,1-disubstituted alkenes
Authors: Tanaka Rina , Komori Saki , Shimizu Yuhei , Kataoka Yasutaka , Ura Yasuyuki
Published: December 2021

2-Hydroxytetrahydrofurans were synthesized by Wacker-type oxidation of 3-methyl-3-buten-1-ols with high stereoselectivity, using a PdCl2(MeCN)2/NO/BQ catalyst system under O2.
A novel electrochemical conducting polymer sensor for the rapid, selective and sensitive detection of biothiols
Authors: Zhu Bicheng , Bryant Devon T. , Akbarinejad Alireza , Travas-Sejdic Jadranka , Pilkington Lisa I.
Published: December 2021

A rapid, selective and sensitive, novel conducting-polymer sensing platform for the detection and analysis of biothiols.
Synthesis and photobiological applications of naphthalimide–benzothiazole conjugates: cytotoxicity and topoisomerase IIα inhibition
Authors: Singh Iqubal , Luxami Vijay , Choudhury Diptiman , Paul Kamaldeep
Published: December 2021

Conjugates of naphthalimide, benzothiazole, and indole moieties are synthesized that show excellent cytotoxicity against A549 (lung), MCF7 (breast), and HeLa (cervix) cancer cell lines with IC50 values in the range of 0.14–8.59 μM.
Light-responsive metal–organic framework sheets constructed smart membranes with tunable transport channels for efficient gas separation
Authors: Xin Qingping , Zhao Meixue , Guo Jianping , Huang Dandan , Zeng Yinan , Zhao Yuhang , Zhang Teng , Zhang Lei , Wang Shaofei , Zhang Yuzhong
Published: December 2021

New light-responsive MOF sheets were synthesized to fabricate a smart membrane, which displays switchable gas separation performance stimulated with UV-Vis light.
Enhancing the photocatalytic hydrogen production activity of BiVO4 [110] facets using oxygen vacancies
Authors: Pan Jing , Ma Xiaoxue , Zhang Wannian , Hu Jingguo
Published: December 2021

An oxygen-vacancy-induced internal electric field enhances the photocatalytic hydrogen production activity of a BiVO4 [110] facet.
A novel colorimetric and fluorescent probe based on a core-extended perylene tetra-(alkoxycarbonyl) derivative for the selective sensing of fluoride ions
Authors: Ma Yongshan , Xia Yanzhao , Zhu Yanyan , Zhang Fengxia , Cui Jingcheng , Jiang Tianyi , Jia Xiangfeng , Li Xuemei
Published: December 2021

A colorimetric and fluorescent probe based on a nuclear extended perylene tetra-(alkoxycarbonyl) derivative can be used for the detection of F− in liquid, solid and living cells.
In situ nanoscale evaluation of pressure-induced changes in structural morphology of phosphonium phosphate ionic liquid at single-asperity contacts
Authors: Li Zixuan , Morales-Collazo Oscar , Chrostowski Robert , Brennecke Joan F. , Mangolini Filippo
Published: December 2021

In this work, we perform atomic force microscopy (AFM) experiments to evaluate in situ the dependence of the structural morphology of trihexyltetradecylphosphonium bis(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate ([P6,6,6,14][DEHP]) ionic liquid (IL) on applied pressure.
Synthesis, crystal structures and spectroscopic properties of pure YSb2O4Br and YSb2O4Cl as well as Eu3+- and Tb3+-doped samples
Authors: Locke Ralf J. C. , Goerigk Felix C. , Schäfer Martin J. , Höppe Henning A. , Schleid Thomas
Published: December 2021

The oxygen atoms of the two new compounds belong to ψ1-tetrahedral [SbO3]3− units, which are either vertex-connected to four-membered rings in YSb2O4Cl or to endless chains in YSb2O4Br. Eu3+- and Tb3+-doped samples show red or green luminescence.
Constructing DNA logic circuits based on the toehold preemption mechanism
Authors: Xing Cuicui , Zheng Xuedong , Zhang Qiang
Published: December 2021

Preemptor blocks the strand displacement reaction by acting on DNA complex, not by directly hybridizing with the worker.
Recent advances in heterostructured cathodic electrocatalysts for non-aqueous Li–O2batteries
Authors: Xia Qing , Li Deyuan , Zhao Lanling , Wang Jun , Long Yuxin , Han Xue , Zhou Zhaorui , Liu Yao , Zhang Yiming , Li Yebing , Adam Abulgasim Ahmed Abbaker , Chou Shulei
Published: December 2021

The structure–function relationships between heterostructures and their catalytic properties were discussed in detail, and the challenges and improvement strategies for heterostructure based cathodes towards Li–O2catalysis were also summarized.
Solvent coordination to palladium can invert the selectivity of oxidative addition
Authors: Elias Emily K. , Rehbein Steven M. , Neufeldt Sharon R.
Published: December 2021

In the presence of the bulky monophosphine PtBu3, palladium usually prefers to react with Ar–Cl over Ar–OTf bonds. However, strongly coordinating solvents can bind to palladium, inducing a reversal of selectivity.
Polyoxometalates as chemically and structurally versatile components in self-assembled materials
Authors: Gao Yanting , Choudhari Manjiri , Such Georgina K. , Ritchie Chris
Published: December 2021

Polyoxometalates are anionic molecular metal oxides with diversity in composition, structure, nuclearity and charge. Their adaptable chemistry leads to potential for self-assembly with other building blocks into a variety of hybrid structures.
Recyclable and re-usable smart surfactant for stabilization of various multi-responsive emulsions alone or with nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Pei , Zhang Sheng , Pei Xiaomei , Song Binglei , Jiang Jianzhong , Cui Zhenggang , Binks Bernard P.
Published: December 2021

A novel smart surfactant convertible between amphiphilic and bola form triggered by pH and CO2/N2 was synthesized. As an O/W emulsifier alone or combined with charged nanoparticles, the inferior bola form returns to aqueous phase after demulsification enabling it to be recycled and re-used.
Atmospheric water harvester-assisted solar steam generation for highly efficient collection of distilled water
Authors: Dong Suwei , Xu Yunfan , Wang Chenjie , Liu Cihui , Zhang Jinlei , Di Yunsong , Yu Liyan , Dong Lifeng , Gan Zhixing
Published: December 2021

Solar steam generation (SSG) is developed as a promising way for seawater desalination and wastewater purification, bringing new opportunities for solving the shortages of freshwater.
Mussel-inspired injectable chitosan hydrogel modified with catechol for cell adhesion and cartilage defect repair
Authors: Zhou Siqi , Bei Zhongwu , Wei Jian , Yan Xinxin , Wen Haiyan , Cao Yiping , Li Haohuan
Published: December 2021

Catechol-modified chitosan cell adhesive hydrogels were synthesised for cartilage defect repair.
Bio-inspired antibacterial coatings on urinary stents for encrustation prevention
Authors: Yao Qin , Chen Binghai , Bai Jiaxiang , He Wenbo , Chen Xu , Geng Dechun , Pan Guoqing
Published: December 2021

Mussel-inspired antibacterial and anti-encrustation coatings on urinary stents could in situ inhibit bacterial growth and biofilm formation, and finally reduce deposition of struvite and hydroxyapatite crystals both in vitro and in vivo.
Magnetic cellulose: does extending cellulose versatility with magnetic functionality facilitate its use in devices?
Authors: Nypelö Tiina
Published: December 2021

The preparation, properties and use of magnetic cellulose are reviewed with focus on use in devices.
Theoretical study on the controllable preparation of superhard BC2N under high pressure
Authors: Gao Qi , Luo Kun , Ling Feifei , Huang Quan , Zhu Li , Han Qiaoyi , Zhang Yang , Gao Yufei , He Julong , Yu Dongli
Published: December 2021

Variable speed pressurization has a great influence on structural phase transition.