bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Size dependent local field enhancement factor of CdSe based core@shell spherical nanoparticles
Authors: Bergaga Garoma Dhaba , Ali Belayneh Mesfin , Debela Teshome Senbeta
Published: March 2022

We investigated the size dependent local field enhancement factor (LFEF) of CdSe@Ag and CdSe@ZnSe@Ag core/shell spherical nanoparticles theoretically and numerically within the framework of quasi-static approximation. From the potential distributions in the core, shell(s), and host medium, and using the modified Drude-Sommerfeld model, we separately obtained the expressions for LFEF of core/shell and core/spacer/shell nanocomposites. By changing the sizes of each of the components of the nanocomposites in these expressions, we found that the LFEF of CdSe@Ag increases with a decrease in the size of the core. At the same time, the resonance peaks are red shifted in the inner interface and blue shifted in the outer interface of the shell. The result also reveals that whether the shell radius is kept constant or decreased, increasing the core size produces a lower field enhancement factor showing that the core size is a crucial parameter to change the field enhancement factor of the dielectric core and metal shell nanoparticle (NP). When the spacer (ZnSe) is placed between the core (CdSe) and the shell (Ag), the resonance peaks increased with increase in the size of the core which was not observed in the case of the two layered core/shell nanocomposites having the same core and shell sizes. We also found that placing the spacer and varying the sizes of the core, the spacer, and the shell show different effects on the LFEF of the nanocomposite. The possibility of obtaining size dependent LFEF by adjusting the sizes of nanoparticles makes these nanocomposites attractive for applications in nonlinear optics, photocatalysis, and optoelectronics.
Microhardness and heat-resistance performance of ferromagnetic cobalt-molybdenum nanocrystals electrodeposited from an aqueous solution containing citric acid
Authors: Matsuda Tomoyuki , Saeki Ryusei , Hayashida Masamitsu , Ohgai Takeshi
Published: March 2022

Using a potentiostatic electrodeposition technique, nanocrystalline cobalt-molybdenum (Co-Mo) superalloys containing molybdenum oxide (MoOX) were synthesized from an aqueous solution containing citric acid. Molybdenum content in the alloys was controlled up to approximately 53% by adjusting the cathode potential during the alloy electrodeposition. Based on the XRD profiles and electron diffraction patterns, an amorphous-like nanocrystalline structure was observed in the alloys with high molybdenum content. XPS analysis revealed that the chemical state of electrodeposited molybdenum was almost metallic and the oxide state was also detected partially. According to the magnetization curves, the coercivity of electrodeposited Co-Mo alloys decreased down to approximately 72 Oe with increasing the molybdenum content up to around 53%. The microhardness reached 845 kgf mm−2 in the electrodeposited Co-53%Mo alloy and greatly exceeded that of pure cobalt (ca. 250–300 kgf mm−2). Heat resistance performance of the electrodeposited nanocrystalline Co-53%Mo alloy was improved by the Mo alloying effect because the recrystallization and oxidation behavior were not observed even if the annealing temperature was increased up to 700 °C.
Hydrogen adsorption behavior on AXenes Na2N and K2N: a first-principles study
Authors: Dong Shuping , Zhang Haona , Yu Shiqiang , Huang Baibiao , Dai Ying , Wei Wei
Published: March 2022

It is a consensus that the hydrogen economy has come to a standstill due to the lack of feasible hydrogen storage solutions, especially, the suitable hydrogen storage materials. In this work, the potential of a new kind of two-dimensional (2D) AXenes, Na2N and K2N, as hydrogen storage materials are evaluated by the first-principles calculations. In particular, we find that Na2N in T phase indicates a hydrogen storage capacity as high as 6.25 wt% with a desirable hydrogen adsorption energy of –0.167 eV per H2 molecule and a desorption temperature of 216 K, identifying T-phase Na2N to be a very promising reversible hydrogen storage material. In accordance to our results, H2–Na2N interaction causes H2 charge polarization, which is responsible for the moderate binding strength. In addition, Gibbs adsorption free energy reveals that the system will be more stable as more H2 molecules are loaded on the surface.
Suppressing simulation bias in multi-modal data using transfer learning
Authors: Kustowski Bogdan , Gaffney Jim A , Spears Brian K , Anderson Gemma J , Anirudh Rushil , Bremer Peer-Timo , Thiagarajan Jayaraman J , G Kruse Michael K , Nora Ryan C
Published: March 2022

Many problems in science and engineering require making predictions based on few observations. To build a robust predictive model, these sparse data may need to be augmented with simulated data, especially when the design space is multi-dimensional. Simulations, however, often suffer from an inherent bias. Estimation of this bias may be poorly constrained not only because of data sparsity, but also because traditional predictive models fit only one type of observed outputs, such as scalars or images, instead of all available output data modalities, which might have been acquired and simulated at great cost. To break this limitation and open up the path for multi-modal calibration, we propose to combine a novel, transfer learning technique for suppressing the bias with recent developments in deep learning, which allow building predictive models with multi-modal outputs. First, we train an initial neural network model on simulated data to learn important correlations between different output modalities and between simulation inputs and outputs. Then, the model is partially retrained, or transfer learned, to fit the experiments; a method that has never been implemented in this type of architecture. Using fewer than 10 inertial confinement fusion experiments for training, transfer learning systematically improves the simulation predictions while a simple output calibration, which we design as a baseline, makes the predictions worse. We also offer extensive cross-validation with real and carefully designed synthetic data. The method described in this paper can be applied to a wide range of problems that require transferring knowledge from simulations to the domain of experiments.
Base change and triple product 𝐿-series
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Lun , Yamana Shunsuke
Published: March 2022

Let

π
i

\pi _i

be an irreducible cuspidal automorphic representation of

G
L

2

\mathrm {GL}_2

with central character

ω
i

\omega _i

. When

ω
1

ω
2

ω
3

\omega _1\omega _2\omega _3

is trivial, Atsushi Ichino proved a formula for the central value

L
(

1
2

,

π
1

×

π
2

×

π
3

)

L(\frac {1}{2}, \pi _1\times \pi _2\times \pi _3)

of the triple product

L
L

-series in terms of global trilinear forms. We will extend this formula to the case when

ω
1

ω
2

ω
3

\omega _1\omega _2\omega _3

is a quadratic character, giving a non-vanishing criterion of a local trilinear form in terms of the central value of the gamma factor.
Representations of 2-transitive locally compact groups
Authors: Bekes Robert
Published: March 2022

We show that noncompact representations of 2-transitive locally compact groups are irreducible.
Impact of an electronic health record alert on inappropriate prescribing of high-risk medications to patients with concurrent “do not give” orders
Authors: Smith Kirsten , Durant Karin M , Zimmerman Chris
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of clinical decision support (CDS) alerts tied to high-risk medications at a Michigan health system by determining the true prescriber action rate in response to select “do not give” (DNG) alerts.

Methods

A retrospective review of prescriber actions in response to CDS alerts was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of alerts designed to prevent prescribing of high-risk medications to patients with concurrent DNG orders. The primary endpoint was the overall action rate, determined by totaling orders cancelled within the alert display and orders modified shortly after an alert. The overall action rate was hypothesized to significantly exceed the action rate estimated on the basis of alert overrides alone. Following the initial review, changes were made to the alert format and preset documentation choices (“acknowledgement comments”), and it was hypothesized that these changes would increase the overall action rate. A repeat analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of these changes.

Results

Across a total of 506 CDS alerts over 14 months, 78% resulted in prescribers modifying orders to comply with alert recommendations. Prescribers cancelled orders in response to only 26% of alerts, often overriding alerts prior to modifying orders. Documentation of rationale or approval for overrides was inconsistent, and while requiring acknowledgement comments facilitated documentation of prescriber rationale, it did not consistently improve overall action rates.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that override rates alone are not good markers for the true effectiveness of CDS alerts and support the need for frequent evaluation of alerts at the institutional level. CDS alerts remain a valuable tool to prevent inappropriate prescribing of high-risk medications and for promoting patient safety.
Memory Perfectionism is Associated with Persistent Memory Complaints after Concussion
Authors: Picon Edwina L , Todorova Evgenia V , Palombo Daniela J , Perez David L , Howard Andrew K , Silverberg Noah D
Published: March 2022

Objective

The etiology of persistent memory complaints after concussion is poorly understood. Memory perfectionism (highly valuing memory ability and intolerance of minor memory lapses) may help explain why some people report persistent subjective memory problems in the absence of corresponding objective memory impairment. This study investigated the relationship between memory perfectionism and persistent memory complaints after concussion.

Methods

Secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial. Adults (N = 77; 61% women) with persistent symptoms following concussion were recruited from outpatient specialty clinics. Participants completed the National Institutes of Health Toolbox Cognition Battery, Test of Memory Malingering-Trial 1, and questionnaires measuring memory perfectionism (Metamemory in Adulthood-Achievement subscale), forgetfulness and other postconcussion symptoms (Rivermead Postconcussion Symptoms Questionnaire; RPQ), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-2) at M = 17.8 weeks postinjury. Patients with versus without severe memory complaints (based on the RPQ) were compared.

Results

Memory perfectionism was associated cross-sectionally with severe memory complaint, after controlling for objective memory ability, overall cognitive ability, and depression (95% confidence interval for odds ratio = 1.11–1.40). Sensitivity analyses showed that this relationship did not depend on use of specific objective memory tests nor on inclusion of participants who failed performance validity testing. In a control comparison to test the specificity of identified relationships, memory perfectionism was not associated with severe fatigue (95% confidence interval for odds ratio = 0.91–1.07).

Conclusions

Memory perfectionism may be a risk factor for persistent memory symptoms after concussion, with potential relevance to the spectrum of functional cognitive disorders more broadly.
IL10 Secretion Endows Intestinal Human iNKT Cells with Regulatory Functions Towards Pathogenic T Lymphocytes
Authors: Burrello Claudia , Strati Francesco , Lattanzi Georgia , Diaz-Basabe Angelica , Mileti Erika , Giuffrè Maria Rita , Lopez Gianluca , Cribiù Fulvia Milena , Trombetta Elena , Kallikourdis Marinos , Cremonesi Marco , Conforti Francesco , Botti Fiorenzo , Porretti Laura , Rescigno Maria , Vecchi Maurizio , Fantini Massimo C , Caprioli Flavio , Facciotti Federica
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

Invariant natural killer T [iNKT] cells perform pleiotropic functions in different tissues by secreting a vast array of pro-inflammatory and cytotoxic molecules. However, the presence and function of human intestinal iNKT cells capable of secreting immunomodulatory molecules such as IL-10 has never been reported so far. Here we describe for the first time the presence of IL10-producing iNKT cells [NKT10 cells] in the intestinal lamina propria of healthy individuals and of Crohn’s disease [CD] patients.

Methods

Frequency and phenotype of NKT10 cells were analysed ex vivo from intestinal specimens of Crohn’s disease [n = 17] and controls [n = 7]. Stable CD-derived intestinal NKT10 cell lines were used to perform in vitro suppression assays and co-cultures with patient-derived mucosa-associated microbiota. Experimental colitis models were performed by adoptive cell transfer of splenic naïve CD4+ T cells in the presence or absence of IL10-sufficient or -deficient iNKT cells. In vivo induction of NKT10 cells was performed by administration of short chain fatty acids [SCFA] by oral gavage.

Results

Patient-derived intestinal NKT10 cells demonstrated suppressive capabilities towards pathogenic CD4+ T cells. The presence of increased proportions of mucosal NKT10 cells associated with better clinical outcomes in CD patients. Moreover, an intestinal microbial community enriched in SCFA-producing bacteria sustained the production of IL10 by iNKT cells. Finally, IL10-deficient iNKT cells failed to control the pathogenic activity of adoptively transferred CD4+ T cells in an experimental colitis model.

Conclusions

These results describe an unprecedentd IL10-mediated immunoregulatory role of intestinal iNKT cells in controlling the pathogenic functions of mucosal T helper subsets and in maintaining the intestinal immune homeostasis.
Association between stressful life events and non-optimal lipid levels among women with hyperlipidaemia
Authors: Kuo Wan-chin , Ersig Anne L , Johnson Heather M , Brown Roger L , Oakley Linda D , Hagen Erika W , Barnet Jodi H , Peppard Paul E
Published: March 2022

Aims

Psychological stress has been linked to lipid dysregulation with noticeable gender differences, but it remains unclear whether women are more susceptible to non-optimal lipid levels than men, when experiencing stressful life events. This study aims to examine the association between stressful life events and non-optimal lipid levels among persons with hyperlipidaemia and whether the association differs between men and women.

Methods and results

A nested case–control study was performed using data from the Wisconsin Sleep Cohort (WSC) Study from 2011 to 2015, including 224 participants with hyperlipidaemia and without a history of myocardial infarction or heart failure. Among them, 63 participants with non-optimal LDL cholesterol or triglyceride levels were identified as cases, and 161 participants with optimal LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels were identified as controls. Cases and controls were traced back to their self-reported life events collected through the Retirement and Sleep Trajectories study during 2010–11. The association between stressful life events and non-optimal lipid levels was examined using multivariable logistic regression; confounding effects were addressed using propensity score weighting and Mahalanobis distance matching; gender differences were examined using subgroup analysis. Results showed that a higher number of stressful life events during 2010–11 was associated with greater odds of non-optimal lipid levels during 2011–15 (odds ratio = 1.45, P = 0.03) among women with hyperlipidaemia, whereas the association was not significant among men with hyperlipidaemia (P = 0.910).

Conclusion

Future studies are needed to examine the underlying mechanisms that explain gender differences in the association between stressful life events and non-optimal lipid levels.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00005557
Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly of the Bioluminescent Cardinalfish Siphamia tubifer: An Emerging Model for Symbiosis Research
Authors: Gould A. L. , Henderson J. B. , Lam A. W.
Published: March 2022

The bioluminescent symbiosis involving the sea urchin cardinalfish Siphamia tubifer and the luminous bacterium Photobacterium mandapamensis is an emerging vertebrate model for the study of microbial symbiosis. However, little genetic data are available for the host, limiting the scope of research that can be implemented with this association. We present a chromosome-level genome assembly for S. tubifer using a combination of PacBio HiFi sequencing and Hi–C technologies. The final assembly was 1.2 Gb distributed on 23 chromosomes and contained 32,365 protein coding genes with a BUSCO score of 99%. A comparison of the S. tubifer genome to that of another nonluminous species of cardinalfish revealed a high degree of synteny, whereas a comparison to a more distant relative in the sister order Gobiiformes revealed the fusion of two chromosomes in the cardinalfish genomes. The complete mitogenome of S. tubifer was also assembled, and an inversion in the vertebrate WANCY tRNA genes as well as heteroplasmy in the length of the control region were discovered. A phylogenetic analysis based on whole the mitochondrial genome indicated that S. tubifer is divergent from the rest of the cardinalfish family, highlighting the potential role of the bioluminescent symbiosis in the initial divergence of Siphamia. This high-quality reference genome will provide novel opportunities for the bioluminescent S. tubifer–P. mandapamensis association to be used as a model for symbiosis research.
The Mnn10/Anp1-dependent N-linked outer chain glycan is dispensable for Candida albicans cell wall integrity
Authors: Dean Neta , Jones Rachel , DaSilva Justin , Chionchio Gregory , Ng Henry
Published: March 2022

Candida albicans cell wall glycoproteins, and in particular their mannose-rich glycans, are important for maintaining cellular integrity as well as host recognition, adhesion, and immunomodulation. The asparagine (N)-linked mannose outer chain of these glycoproteins is produced by Golgi mannosyltransferases (MTases). The outer chain is composed of a linear backbone of ∼50 α1,6-linked mannoses, which acts as a scaffold for addition of ∼150 or more mannoses in other linkages. Here, we describe the characterization of C. albicans OCH1, MNN9, VAN1, ANP1, MNN10, and MNN11, which encode the conserved Golgi MTases that sequentially catalyze the α1,6 mannose outer chain backbone. Candida albicans och1Δ/Δ, mnn9Δ/Δ, and van1Δ/Δ mutants block the earliest steps of backbone synthesis and like their Saccharomyces cerevisiae counterparts, have severe cell wall and growth phenotypes. Unexpectedly, and in stark contrast to S. cerevisiae, loss of Anp1, Mnn10, or Mnn11, which together synthesize most of the backbone, have no obvious deleterious phenotypes. These mutants were unaffected in cell morphology, growth, drug sensitivities, hyphal formation, and macrophage recognition. Analyses of secreted glycosylation reporters demonstrated that anp1Δ/Δ, mnn10Δ/Δ, and mnn11Δ/Δ strains accumulate glycoproteins with severely truncated N-glycan chains. This hypo-mannosylation did not elicit increased chitin deposition in the cell wall, which in other yeast and fungi is a key compensatory response to cell wall integrity breaches. Thus, C. albicans has evolved an alternate mechanism to adapt to cell wall weakness when N-linked mannan levels are reduced.
Evaluating the Working With Older Adults Scale With Clinical Psychology Doctoral Students
Authors: Graham Kirsten L , King Katherine D
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives

The ongoing workforce shortage in geropsychology requires continued efforts to understand the factors that influence whether or not students choose to enter this field. The current study builds on prior research by replicating the Working with Older Adults Scale (WOAS) model. Further, the scale was expanded to add professional attitudes, adultist concerns, and number of known professionals in the field of aging.

Research Design and Methods

Graduate students in clinical psychology (n = 117) completed the WOAS and new items as part of a larger survey of graduate students in an American Psychological Association-accredited doctoral program. Structural equation modeling was used to first replicate the existing WOAS model and then expanded to include new antecedents in a second model.

Results

Results were largely similar to past research validating the WOAS, with the exception that Perceived Behavioral Control was not a significant predictor of Intention in this population. In the expanded model, new items improved the overall model fit and exhibited significant indirect paths to predict intention to work with older adults.

Discussion and Implications

These findings further validate use of the WOAS and expand scholarly understanding of the factors influencing the choice of a career in aging. Individuals positioned to encourage careers in aging may wish to address adultist concerns, explore attitudes about such careers, challenge unhelpful assumptions, and provide greater exposure and access to mentors in the field as part of recruitment efforts.
Autophagic pathway contributes to low-nitrogen tolerance by optimizing nitrogen uptake and utilization in tomato
Authors: Cao Jiajian , Zheng Xuelian , Xie Dongling , Zhou Hui , Shao Shujun , Zhou Jie
Published: March 2022

Autophagy is a primary process involved in the degradation and reuse of redundant or damaged cytoplasmic components in eukaryotes. Autophagy has been demonstrated to facilitate nutrient recycling and remobilization by delivering intracellular materials to the vacuole for degradation in plants under nutrient starvation. However, the role of autophagy in nitrogen (N) uptake and utilization remains unknown. Here, we report that the ATG6-dependent autophagic pathway regulates N utilization in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) under low-nitrogen (LN) conditions. Autophagy-disrupted mutants exhibited weakened biomass production and N accumulation compared with wild-type (WT), while ATG6 overexpression promoted autophagy and biomass production under LN stress. The N content in atg6 mutants decreased while that in ATG6-overexpressing lines increased due to the control of N transporter gene expression in roots under LN conditions. Furthermore, ATG6-dependent autophagy enhanced N assimilation efficiency and protein production in leaves. Nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase activities and expression were compromised in atg6 mutants but were enhanced in ATG6-overexpressing plants under LN stress. Moreover, ATG6-dependent autophagy increased plant carbon fixation and photosynthetic capacity. The quantum yield of photosystem II, photosynthetic N use efficiency and photosynthetic protein accumulation were compromised in atg6 mutants but were restored in ATG6-overexpressing plants. A WT scion grafted onto atg6 mutant rootstock and an atg6 scion grafted onto WT rootstock both exhibited inhibited LN-induced autophagy and N uptake and utilization. Thus, ATG6-dependent autophagy regulates not only N uptake and utilization as well as carbon assimilation but also nutrient recycling and remobilization in tomato plants experiencing LN stress.
Construction of a collection of introgression lines of “Texas” almond DNA fragments in the “Earlygold” peach genetic background
Authors: Kalluri Naveen , Serra Octávio , Donoso José Manuel , Picañol Roger , Howad Werner , Eduardo Iban , Arús Pere
Published: March 2022

Peach [Prunus persica L. Batsch] is one of the major temperate fruit tree species, the commercial materials of which have a low level of genetic variability. Almond [P. dulcis (Mill) DA Webb], a close relative of peach cultivated for its kernels, has a much higher level of diversity. The species are inter-compatible and often produce fertile hybrids, almond being a possible source of new genes for peach that could provide biotic and abiotic stress tolerance traits. In this paper we describe the development of a collection of peach-almond introgression lines (ILs) having a single fragment of almond (cv. Texas) in the peach background (cv. Earlygold). Lines with few introgressions were selected with markers from successive generations from a “Texas” × “Earlygold” F1 hybrid, initially using a set of SSRs and later with the 18 k peach SNP chip, allowing for the final extraction of 67 lines, 39 with almond heterozygous introgressions covering 99% of the genome, and 28 with homozygous introgressions covering 83% of the genome. As a proof of concept, four major genes and four quantitative characters were examined in the selected ILs giving results generally consistent with previous information on the genetics of these characters. This collection is the first of its kind produced in a woody perennial species and promises to be a valuable tool for genetic analyses, including dissection of quantitative traits, positional cloning, epistasis and as prebreeding material to introgress almond genes of interest into the peach commercial gene pool.
Clinical challenges treatingStenotrophomonas maltophiliainfections: an update
Authors: Mojica Maria F. , Humphries Romney , Lipuma John J. , Mathers Amy J. , Rao Gauri G. , Shelburne Samuel A. , Fouts Derrick E. , Van Duin David , Bonomo Robert A.
Published: March 2022

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a non-fermenting, Gram-negative bacillus that has emerged as an opportunistic nosocomial pathogen. Its intrinsic multidrug resistance makes treating infections caused by S. maltophilia a great clinical challenge. Clinical management is further complicated by its molecular heterogeneity that is reflected in the uneven distribution of antibiotic resistance and virulence determinants among different strains, the shortcomings of available antimicrobial susceptibility tests and the lack of standardized breakpoints for the handful of antibiotics with in vitro activity against this microorganism. Herein, we provide an update on the most recent literature concerning these issues, emphasizing the impact they have on clinical management of S. maltophilia infections.
Usability of HIV-1 Assay Using DBS for Early Infant Diagnosis in Field Settings in Kenya
Authors: Wandera Gloria , Bwana Priska , Mwau Matilu
Published: March 2022

Background

The Xpert HIV-1 Qualitative assay has been in use in Kenya since 2016 for infant diagnosis of HIV. Recently, the assay has been improved and its impact of this on ease of use is yet to be determined. We sought to determine the usability of Xpert® HIV-1 Qual XC assay using dried blood spots (DBS) for early infant diagnosis following this improvement.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional usability study undertaken in 2 selected health facilities in Kenya from October 2020 to February 2021. The laboratory technicians were retrained for this study. HIV-exposed infants were recruited with the consent of their parents. Patient data were recorded, and DBS samples were collected from the infants and tested for HIV on the improved assay. Each laboratory technician performing the assay documented usability characteristics on the provided questionnaire. Data on test errors were collected from the machine logs and analyzed using STATA for Windows.

Results

Of 313 test cartridges, 265 (84.66%) were successfully tested on the GeneXpert platform, and 263 valid outcomes were used for comparison with the Roche CAP/CTM HIV-1 Qualitative assay. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the Xpert HIV-1 Qualitative assay on DBS was 100%. Overall, 48 (15.34%) errors were recorded; 40 (83.33%) were user related and 8 (16.67%) were hardware related. All 4 (4/4, 100%) participating laboratory technicians said the assay had a simple workflow, was easy to use, the tests results were easy to interpret, and the assay throughput was sufficient for their workload.

Conclusions

The improved Xpert HIV-1 Qual XC assay is highly accurate, has a simple workflow, and is easy to use and easy to interpret. Both hardware- and user- related errors are common.
Effects of supplementation rate of an extruded dried distillers’ grains cube fed to growing heifers on voluntary intake and digestibility of bermudagrass hay
Authors: Adams Jordan M , Robe Jeff , Grigsby Zane , Rathert-Williams Abigail , Major Mike , Lalman David L , Foote Andrew P , Tedeschi Luis O , Beck Paul A
Published: March 2022

Our objectives were to 1) investigate the difference in chemical composition and disappearance kinetics between loose dried distillers’ grains (DDG) and extruded DDG cubes and 2) evaluate the effects of supplementation rate of extruded DDG cubes on voluntary dry matter intake (DMI), rate and extent of digestibility, and blood parameters of growing beef heifers offered ad libitum bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) hay. To characterize the changes in chemical composition during the extrusion process, loose and extruded DDG were evaluated via near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy, and dry matter (DM) disappearance kinetics were evaluated via time point in situ incubations. Extruded DDG cubes had greater (P ≤ 0.01) contents of fat, neutral detergent insoluble crude protein, and total digestible nutrients, but lower (P ≤ 0.01) neutral and acid detergent fiber than loose DDG. Additionally, the DM of extruded DDG cubes was more immediately soluble (P < 0.01), had greater (P < 0.01) effective degradability and lag time, and tended (P = 0.07) to have a greater disappearance rate than loose DDG. In the 29-d supplementation rate study, 23 Charolais-cross heifers were randomly assigned to one of four supplemental treatments: 1) control, no supplement; 2) low, 0.90 kg DDG cubes per d; 3) intermediate, 1.81 kg DDG cubes per d; or 4) high, 3.62 kg DDG cubes per d. Titanium dioxide was used as an external marker to estimate fecal output and particulate passage rate (Kp). Blood was collected from each animal to determine supplementation effects on blood metabolites. Indigestible neutral detergent fiber was used as an internal marker to assess the rate and extent of hay and diet DM digestibility (DMD). Increasing supplementation rate increased Kp and total diet DMI linearly (P < 0.01), yet linearly decreased (P < 0.01) hay DMI. Hay DMD decreased quadratically (P < 0.01), while total diet DMD increased linearly (P < 0.01) with increased DDG cube inclusion. Supplemented heifers had greater (P = 0.07) blood urea nitrogen concentrations than control animals 4 h post-supplementation. Intermediate and high rates of supplementation resulted in lower (P < 0.01) serum nonesterified fatty acid concentrations post-supplementation than control heifers. Concentrations of serum glucose and lactate were greatest (P ≤ 0.06) 8 h post-supplementation. Our results suggest that extruded DDG cubes may be an adequate supplement for cattle consuming moderate-quality forage, and further research is warranted.
Pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of bovine primary myoblasts through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Jian , Huang Yongzhen , Xu Jiawei , Yue Binglin , Wen Yifan , Wang Xiao , Lei Chuzhao , Chen Hong
Published: March 2022

Pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) is a transcription factor involved in various cellular processes in organismal growth and development. However, its role in muscle function is unclear. This work investigated the roles of PLAG1 in muscle development and explored its regulatory mechanisms. The PLAG1 was proved to promote the proliferation of bovine primary myoblasts using the cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay (P < 0.001), 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine (EdU) proliferation assay (P = 0.005), quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) (P = 0.028), western blot, and flow cytometry (P < 0.05), and to inhibit apoptosis of bovine primary myoblasts using qRT-PCR (P = 0.038), western blot, and flow cytometry (P < 0.001). Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and western blot showed PLAG1 upregulated phosphorylated (p)-PI3K, PI3K, p-Akt, Akt, Cyclin D1, and CDK2 and inhibited the expression of p21 and p27 to enhance myoblast proliferation, and increased expression of Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL to inhibit apoptosis. Additionally, PLAG1 was identified as a target of miR-1 using dual-luciferase assay (P < 0.001), qRT-PCR (P < 0.001), and western blot. Furthermore, miR-1 might be a potential mediator of the positive feedback regulation relationship between PLAG1 and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.
T3 Pharmacogenetic Gene-drug Associations in Pediatric Burn and Surgery Patients
Authors: Grimsrud Kristin N , Davis Ryan , Tepper Clifford , Palmieri Tina L
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Management of critically ill patients requires simultaneous administration of many medications. These patients may have co-morbidities and drug-drug interactions which may result in decreased drug efficacy or increased risk of adverse reactions. Children are of particular concern as they may be even more sensitive to adverse drug reactions. Current practices rely on a one-size-fits-all approach for most medication dosing. Alternatively, precision medicine evaluates an individual’s genetic profile and adjusts individual therapeutic dosing. Pharmacogenetic testing is not generally implemented but is reserved for addressing an established problem rather than being used proactively to optimize clinical care. A greater understanding of the frequency of clinically significant genetic variants in drug pathways and identification of the drugs most commonly impacted by genetic makeup is needed to incorporate pharmacogenetics into medical care. We hypothesize several patients will have one or more genetic variants in drug metabolizing pathways used by one or more medications administered during hospitalization. The aims of this study are to determine the frequency of abnormal genetic variants in the primary drug pathways and assess what medications may be impacted.

Methods

Genetic data from 30 pediatric burn and surgery patients was collected to identify genetic variants in drug metabolizing pathways. We also evaluated drugs potentially impacted by these variants that were administered during the hospitalization. 19 whole exome and 11 whole genome sequencing datasets were analyzed using Aldy allelic decomposition software to identify haplotypes in cytochrome P450 (CYP) metabolizing enzyme genes.

Results

17 patients were identified with predicted altered function in 1 or more of the following CYP genes: 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 3A4 and 3A5. The majority had decreased function, except for several patients with CYP2C19 variants with rapid or ultrarapid phenotypes. Drugs administered during hospitalization that rely on these pathways for primary metabolism include hydrocodone, oxycodone, methadone, ibuprofen, ketorolac, celebrex, diazepam, famotidine, diphenhydramine and glycopyrrolate.

Conclusions

This research demonstrates that approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of patients have functionally impactful haplotypes in the primary drug metabolizing pathways. There is great need for future clinical research to further evaluate the clinical relevance of these haplotypes and the additional impact of drug-drug interactions and other clinical confounders that additionally impact drug efficacy.
12 The Influence of Female Sex Hormones on Outcomes After Burn Injury
Authors: Corona Kassandra K , Song Juquan , De La Tejera Giovanna , Huang Lyndon G , Wermine Kendall , Gotewal Sunny , Efejuku Tsola A , Joglar Alejandro A , Keys Phillip H , Villarreal Elvia L , Chokshi Shivan N , Chaij Jasmine M , Palackic Alen , El Ayadi Amina , Golovko George , Wolf Steven E
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The pathophysiological response to major trauma has gender dimorphism in outcomes associated with sex hormones levels. However, little is known of the effects of female hormones on outcomes in burn patients. Previous studies demonstrated exogenous estrogen alleviates hyper-inflammation after burn. We thus posit that female patients have fewer comorbidities depending on female hormone levels. We had two objectives: to investigate the role of female hormones on outcomes after burn and to investigate potential protective properties of exogenous hormone treatment on burned post-menopausal women.

Methods

This study obtained data from the TriNetX research network with electronic medical records of de-identified patients. Both male and female patients who suffered burns were included from 2002-2020. The population was stratified to only include women over 45 on estrogen or progestin hormones taken within 6 months prior to injury and 1 month after injury to assure a menopausal state which occurs at age 45-55. Outcomes for mortality, sepsis, acute myocardial infarction, and acute kidney injury were measured within one day of injury to one month following injury. Odds ratios, risk difference, and risk ratios were calculated for outcome analysis after propensity-matched for race and ethnicity. A z-test for risk difference was performed. Statistical significance was defined at p < 0.05.

Results

Compared to males, females grossly had a 28% risk reduction of 30-day mortality and a relative risk reduction for sepsis (26%), acute kidney failure (30), and myocardial infarction (29%) (p< .05). Additionally, female burns younger than the age 45 had risk reductions for mortality 5.4-fold within 3 months, 2.9-fold lower for sepsis, 17.5-fold lower for myocardial infarction, and 7.7-fold lower for acute kidney injury (p< .001). TriNetX identified 169,566 female burn patients, of which 2,683 were on estrogen and progestin and above 45 years old. Women over 45 on exogenous hormones had a 37% significant risk reduction in acute kidney failure when compared to the women over 45 not prescribed estrogen or progestin (p< .05).

Conclusions

Female burn patients had better outcomes, while women over 45 had worse outcomes indicating the role of female sex hormone correlated to burn patient progress. The administration of estrogen and progestins for females above age 45 resulted in reduced risks for acute kidney failure after burn injury.
14 Prognostic Factors for In-hospital Mortality of Geriatric Burns from the US National Inpatient Sample 2016-2018
Authors: Yi Yangtian , Vrouwe Sebastian Q , Gottlieb Lawrence J , Rubin Daniel S
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Older adults experience a disproportionately higher rate of hospitalization and mortality due to burns. However, national estimates of in-hospital mortality in geriatric patients with acute burns outside of the recognized burn centers are lacking. The purpose of this study is to characterize such national estimates and identify the prognostic factors associated with in-hospital mortality in elderly patients with acute burn injuries.

Methods

Patients ≥50 years with an acute burn diagnosis in the United States National Inpatient Sample from 2016 to 2018 were identified by using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes (T20.0-T31; initial encounters only). Trend weights were used from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to generate national estimates. Factors associated with in-hospital mortality were evaluated by multivariable logistic regression.

Results

A total of 60,515 weighted discharges met inclusion criteria. For age groups 50-64 (reference category), 65-74, 75-84, and ≥85, the numbers of discharges were 33,100, 15,295, 7,880, and 4,240, respectively; the in-hospital mortality rates were 3.3%, 5.3%, 6.6%, and 9.9%, respectively. The full list of significant variables of the multivariable regression can be seen in Table 1. Specifically, variables associated with increased in-hospital mortality include age 75-84 (odds ratio [OR], 3.91; p< 0.001), age ≥85 years (OR, 11.94; p< 0.001), total body surface area (%TBSA) 10-19% (OR, 2.93; p=0.017), and %TBSA ≥20% (OR, 27.78; p< 0.001). Intentional burns were associated with an increased risk of mortality (OR, 7.86; p=0.005), whereas hot liquids and vapor burns were associated with a decreased risk of mortality (OR, 0.33; p=0.043). Respiratory distress/failure (OR, 5.78; p< 0.001), aspiration pneumonia/pneumonitis (OR, 5.01; p=0.004), shock (OR, 4.58; p=0.004), and acute renal failure (OR, 2.85; p=0.005) were associated with an increased risk of mortality. One or more surgical excisions were associated with a reduced risk of mortality (OR, 0.26; p< 0.001).

Conclusions

Age ≥75 years, %TBSA ≥10%, intentional burn as the mechanism of injury, and certain comorbidities and complications were significant risk factors for in-hospital mortality in geriatric burn patients.
19 Minced Skin Grafts Can Be Expanded up to 500 Times to Re-epithelialize Full-thickness Burns
Authors: Nuutila Kristo , Varon David E , Broomhead Michael , Eriksson Elof
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Deep and large burns require hospitalization and, without exception, surgical treatment. Skin graft expansion in major burns currently is restricted to a 1:6 expansion ratio (possibly 1:9) by current methods. For this reason, skin transplants are limited by donor site availability for patients with extensive burns, who may have only small areas of healthy skin for use as donor sites. The objective of this project is to demonstrate the efficacy of pixel grafting, to produce split-thickness skin grafts (STSG) and dermal grafts which can be expanded at least 100 times (1 cm2 donor skin will cover 100 cm2). Pixel grafts are skin grafts that are prepared from split-thickness donor skin that is 0.3 mm (12/1000 of an inch) thick and minced into pieces that are 0.3 x 0.3 mm. The methodology relies on mincing a small area of donor skin using a hand-held mincer to create uniform skin pieces, each of which will serve as a small center of skin regeneration.

Methods

Deep partial-thickness burns were created on the dorsum of Yorkshire pigs. Three days post injury the burns were debrided and grafted with epidermal/dermal and dermal pixel grafts using expansion ratios from 1:2 to 1:500. The pixel grafts were prepared by harvesting 0.3 mm thick skin grafts from the same donor site going down in depth (Layer 1: STSG; Layer 2: dermal graft). Subsequently, the grafts were minced to 0.3 x 0.3 x 0.3 mm pixel grafts, suspended in a small volume of hydrogel and transplanted onto debrided porcine burn wounds. Healing was monitored up to 28 days and biopsies were collected on days 6, 10 and 14. The wounds were excised and fixed in formalin for histologic analysis. In addition, to measure wound area reduction and wound depth, wound images were taken. Multiple wound healing parameters were used to assess the quality of healing and the results were compared to STSG (standard of care treatment).

Results

Histology demonstrated that when both STSG pixel grafts and dermal grafts were transplanted onto porcine full-thickness wounds in a 1:2 ratio they were able to fully re-epithelialize the wounds in 14 days. At day 14, re-epithelialization-% using other expansion ratios varied from 46 % (1:500) to 64 % (1:10) and by day 28 all the wounds were fully re-epithelialized. Wound images obtained at different time points showed that by day 28 all the pixel graft grafted wounds had reduced in area efficiently, from 70 % (dermal pixel grafts 1:50) to 81% (STSG 1:100). No statistically significant differences were observed between the pixel graft study groups and STSG (standard of care).

Conclusions

This study concluded that both epidermal/dermal and dermal pixel grafts can be suspended in a hydrogel and transplanted onto wounds regardless of orientation (dermal side up or down), making the transplantation greatly simplified.
25 The Association Between Pain and Sleep Post-burn Injury: A Preschool LIBRE1-5 Study
Authors: Surette Kate E , Rodríguez-Mercedes Silvanys L , Ni Pengsheng , Patel Khushbu F , Rencken Camerin A , McGwin Madeleine , Fabia Renata , Tully Carrie , Palmieri Tina L , Romanowski Kathleen S , Warner Petra , Stoddard Frederick J J , Schneider Jeffrey C , Kazis Lewis E , Ryan Colleen M
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Quality sleep is an essential part of post-injury recovery. Sleep deprivation, including that due to pain, may hinder and slow recovery progression. Therefore, it is vital to assess long-term sleep outcomes post-burn injury. This study examined the association of sleep items with the severity of pain in pediatric burn survivors one to five years of age, using Preschool LIBRE1-5 (Life Impact Burn Recovery Evaluation) parent-reported data.

Methods

The Preschool LIBRE1-5 was administered to 426 parents of burn survivors during field-testing. Three sleep-specific items within the psychological domain were assessed: “My child had frightening dreams or nightmares,” “My child had trouble staying asleep,” and “My child had trouble falling asleep at night.” Each item was scored on a 5-point Likert scale from 0 = never to 4 = always. Pain was assessed on a 4-point severity scale, from 0 = not severe to 3 = very severe and dichotomized (1= not severe and 0 = mild, moderate, and very severe). For sleep items, higher scores denote better functioning. Odds ratios for each of the three items were calculated using logistic regression to measure the association between pain severity with sleep. Lower odds ratios denote that greater pain severity is associated with more sleep problems. The multiple logistic and linear regression analysis included covariates for age at time of survey, gender, race, total body surface area burned (TBSA), Hispanic (yes/no), wound dressings, and burns to critical areas (hands, face, foot). Multiple imputations were used for missing values.

Results

The sample characteristics included: mean age of 3.1 + 1.4 years, mean time since burn injury of 1.2 + 1.3 years, mean TBSA of 4.2 + 7.9, 55.2% male, and 74.2% white. In the multiple logistic regression analyses, burn survivors with severe pain had significant trouble falling asleep (OR = 0.44, 95% CI [0.24, 0.81]) and staying asleep at night (OR = 0.45, 95% CI [0.24, 0.83]). No association was found with pain severity and frightening dreams or nightmares (OR = 0.8, 95% CI (0.37, 1.75). The multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher scores on pain scales were associated with poor sleep outcomes (R²= 9.5%, p = 0.0016). As pain scores increased, the sleep summed score decreased by 0.46 standard deviation.

Conclusions

There are important associations between pain severity and sleep outcomes. Pain management and interventions for sleep improvement may lead to better outcomes in the pediatric burn population.