bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression and characterization of Cys374 mutated human β‐actin in two different mammalian cell lines: impaired microfilament organization and stability
Authors: Tsapara A , Kardassis D , Moustakas A , Gravanis A , Stournaras C
Published: July 2002

Previous studies have demonstrated that addition of glutathione at the penultimate Cys374 residue of actin results in filaments with diminished mechanical stability. In the present work substitutions introducing a negatively charged (Asp and Glu) or a neutral (Ala) amino acid at position 374 of the human β‐actin and tagged at the N‐terminus with the flag epitope were studied by transient transfections into Ishikawa human endometrial and opossum kidney cells. Immunofluorescence revealed that microfilaments which incorporated negatively charged mutants were partially to severely disorganized when compared to the almost well‐formed actin‐Ala374 filaments or the wild type actin filaments. Furthermore, microfilaments containing either negatively charged mutant were more sensitive to the destabilizing action of cytochalasin B. In addition, Triton fractionation revealed a considerable reduction of flag‐actin content in the Triton insoluble fraction for cells expressing Asp374 or Glu374 mutant compared to wild type actin. These results demonstrate that negatively charged amino acid residues at the exposed C‐terminal tail strongly affect actin microfilament organization and dynamics in vivo.
Sequence conservation from human to prokaryotes of Surf1, a protein involved in cytochrome c oxidase assembly, deficient in Leigh syndrome
Authors: Poyau Alain , Buchet Karine , Godinot Catherine
Published: July 2002

The human SURF1 gene encoding a protein involved in cytochrome c oxidase (COX) assembly, is mutated in most patients presenting Leigh syndrome associated with COX deficiency. Proteins homologous to the human Surf1 have been identified in nine eukaryotes and six prokaryotes using database alignment tools, structure prediction and/or cDNA sequencing. Their sequence comparison revealed a remarkable Surf1 conservation during evolution and put forward at least four highly conserved domains that should be essential for Surf1 function. In Paracoccus denitrificans, the Surf1 homologue is found in the quinol oxidase operon, suggesting that Surf1 is associated with a primitive quinol oxidase which belongs to the same superfamily as cytochrome oxidase.
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure of the cervix and time of delivery in subsequent pregnancy
Authors: Althuisius S.M , Schornagel I.J , Dekker G.A , van Geijn H.P , Hummel P
Published: July 2002

Objective: To study the effect of the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) on gestational age at delivery in the subsequent pregnancy. Method: Identification of women with LEEP. Chart analysis and inquiry into gestational age at the subsequent delivery. Exclusion of first trimester abortions, multiple gestations, cold knife conizations and women over 40 years during LEEP. For comparison, 40 weeks was used as the mean date of delivery in a normal population. Wilcoxon signed rank test was used and P<0.05 was considered significant. Result: Fifty‐six women delivered after LEEP. Seven delivered preterm of whom three were induced and one had a history of preterm delivery. Deliveries prior to 32 weeks of gestation did not occur. Mean gestational age at delivery was 39 2/7 weeks (95%CI: 38 5/7–39 6/7) which is significantly earlier (P=0.03) than the hypothetical 40 weeks. Conclusion: After LEEP, deliveries prior to 32 weeks did not occur. Gestational age at delivery was only 5 days earlier than expected. LEEP cannot be considered a risk for early preterm delivery.
Rupture of the pregnant uterus — a 21‐year review
Authors: Al Sakka M , Hamsho A , Khan L
Published: July 2002

Objectives: To review the incidence of ruptured uteri at the Women's Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and to analyze the causative factors of uterine rupture with a view to its prevention and to highlight the management approach taken to preserve the patient's reproductive potential. Methods: Case notes were reviewed for all patients (except for eight which were not available) with a ruptured uterus at the Women's Hospital in Doha for a period of 21 years from 1 July 1977 to 30 June 1997, relevant data relating to the clinical features characteristics of labor, operative procedures, and maternal perinatal outcome were assessed. Results: There were 31 cases of ruptured uteri. The incidence of ruptured uteri was calculated to be 0.017%, 23 cases being available for the study. Ten cases (43.5%) occurred in patients with previous cesarean scars, while 13 cases (56.5%) were grand multiparous (para 5 or more). In 10 cases (43.5%) uterine rupture was associated with oxytocin use, and four cases (18.2%) were associated with PGE2 use. The ruptures occurred in the lower segment of 19 cases (90.9%). Fetal heart abnormalities were observed in all cases except one in which the uterus ruptured during labor. Abdominal hysterectomy was performed in 15 cases (65.2%). The remaining eight patients had suture repair, two of them had suture repair with sterilization and the other six cases (26.1%) had suture repair without sterilization. Five of them became pregnant and were delivered by cesarean section. Conclusions: Even though rupture of the uterus was rare in our study, its occurrence should be suspected when there are sudden fetal heart abnormalities during labor or unexpected postpartum shock. Suture repair should be considered whenever possible in order to maintain the patient's future fertility.
Lack of biocytin transfer at gap junctions in the chicken vestibular nuclei
Authors: Arabshahi Alidad , Giaume Christian , Peusner Kenna D.
Published: July 2002

In vivo experiments were designed to test for functional gap junctions at 'mixed' synapses that were morphologically characterized between the large‐diameter, primary vestibular fibers and second‐order vestibular neurons in the chicken, Gallus gallus. In previous intracellular recordings and dye injections into these neurons from brain slice preparations of chick embryos (E15/16) and also newborn hatchlings (H1‐2), no evidence was obtained for functional gap junctions. Therefore, biocytin, a low molecular weight tracer that permeates gap junction channels, was extracellularly applied to either the ampullary nerves or to the vestibular ganglion of 3–6 day old hatchlings and adult chickens (9 months). This procedure resulted in the uptake of the dye and heavy staining of both the thick and thin fibers composing the vestibular nerve and in loading of vestibular efferent neurons. However, no dye transfer was observed between the large‐diameter, primary vestibular fibers and second‐order vestibular neurons. This observation, which was performed using a relatively non‐invasive approach on intact animals, suggests that the gap junctions at these mixed synapses are probably not functional under the conditions of these experiments.
Ca2 +channel α1 ‐ 1‐Subunit transcripts are differentially expressed in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells following nerve growth factor treatment
Authors: Colston James T. , Valdes James J. , Chambers James P.
Published: July 2002

In this report, we describe the effect of nerve growth factor (NGF) on the transcriptional expression of voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channel α1 subunits, i.e., α1A, α1B, α1C, α1D, and α1E in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells. Using reverse transcriptase‐coupled polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and class‐specific Ca2+ channel oligonucleotide probes, messenger RNA levels were measured and compared to Histone H3.3 transcript which remained relatively constant over the duration of NGF treatment. Although no statistically significant differences in P‐type (α1A) Ca2+ channel transcript levels were observed, N‐type (α1B) Ca2+ channel transcript levels increased 50% over control values (P values < 0.05) at days 7 and 14. In contrast, NGF treatment resulted in decreased levels of L‐type (α1C and α1D) transcripts with α1C decreasing steadily to ∼50% of control (P value < 0.01) by 2 weeks, while α1D decreased to ∼20% of control (P value < 0.01) after 2 days treatment. No α1E Ca2+ channel transcripts were detected in PC12 cells. For comparison, PC12 cells were also treated with another differentiative growth factor, i.e., basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and a nondifferentiative growth factor epidermal growth factor (EGF). In contrast to NGF, bFGF and EGF treatment had no inhibitory effect on L‐type (α1C and α1D) channel transcript levels after 3 days. Like NGF, EGF treatment had no statistically significant effect upon P‐type (α1A) transcript levels but increased in a biphasic manner following bFGF treatment. Presynaptic‐associated α1B (N‐type) Ca2+ channel transcripts were observed decreased following EGF treatment (2 days) while L‐type α1C transcripts decreased after 7 days (P value < 0.01). Although a varied response to differentiative growth factors NGF and bFGF was observed, data presented here indicate that NGF treatment of PC12 cells results in late increased expression of N‐type Ca2+ channel transcripts, while L‐type (α1C and α1D) Ca2+ channel transcripts appear to be down regulated.
Immunolesion of the cholinergic basal forebrain :effects on functional properties of hippocampal and septalneurons
Authors: Bassant Marie‐hélène , Jouvenceau Anne , Apartis Emmanuelle , Poindessous‐jazat Frederique , Dutar Patrick , Billard Jean‐marie
Published: July 2002

Deficits in cholinergic function have been documented in a variety of brain disordersincluding Alzheimers Disease and, to a lesser extent, in normal ageing. In the present article, wehave reviewed our recent findings on the effects of the loss of basal forebrain cholinergic neuronson the functional properties of the septohippocampal pathway. In vivo and ex vivo investigations were performed in rats following basal forebrain cholinergic lesion with thespecific immunotoxin 192 IgG‐saporin. Our results suggest a significant contribution ofcholinergic neurons in the rhythmically bursting activity recorded within the medial septum. Inaddition, they give evidence that acetylcholine may tonically decrease the glutamatergic synapticresponses in the hippocampus whereas the GABAergic mediated inhibitory potentials are notaffected. The possible contribution of these cholinergic mechanisms in the age‐related functionalalterations of the septohippocampal activity is discussed.
Heterogeneous regional expression patterns of matrix metalloproteinases in human malignant gliomas
Authors: Vince Giles H. , Wagner Sven , Pietsch Torsten , Klein Rüdiger , Goldbrunner Roland H. , Roosen Klaus , Tonn Jörg C.
Published: July 2002

The aim of the study was to assess the differential intra‐ and intertumoral heterogeneity and patterns of matrix metalloproteinase expression in human glioblastomas in vivo. 12 glioblastoma samples were analyzed for MMP expression by semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR. A total of 56 samples (8 adjoining regions of 6 glioblastoma tumors) were immunohistochemically examined for the expression and regional distribution of gelatinase‐A (MMP‐2), gelatinase‐B (MMP‐9), matrilysin (MMP‐7) and stromelysin‐1 (MMP‐3). Gelatinase‐A mRNA was detected in all samples, gelatinase‐B was found in numerous samples. Correspondingly, strong expression levels of both gelatinase protein was seen in immunohistochemistry. Gelatinase‐A was expressed by both tumor cells and endothelium while gelatinase‐B was found to be restricted to endothelial cells. Stromelysin‐1 protein was not detected in any of the samples. Matrilysin was found around tumor cells of three samples from one patient only. The strong immunoreactivity seen for gelatinase‐A around tumor cells and blood vessels suggests a role in both tissue degradation and tumor neoangiogenesis which is in accordance with previously published in vitro data. The marked localization of gelatinase‐B to the endothelium and its presence in non‐infiltrative benign lesions, however, makes a direct proteolytic role of gelatinase‐B on ECM components during glioma invasion appear unlikely. Its close association with vascular structures, however, might indicate a link to neoangiogenesis. The significance of matrilysin which was only seen in tumor cells in three samples remains unclear. Stromelysin‐1, though strongly expressed in cell lines, does not appear to play a role in glioblastoma tumors in vivo.
Issues in pharmacoeconomic studies with psychotropics: Some practical
considerations
Authors: Simeon G
Published: July 2002

The assessment of quality of life (QoL) and economic outcomes of
psychotropic medications are closely related. Both costs and QoL are
important in establishing the value of new and existing drugs in order to
assist patients, physicians, payors of health care, and society to make
optimal decisions. These parameters may be combined, as in cost-utility
analyses, or analysed separately. Although not a true reflection of normal
practice, clinical trials are most often the setting for measurement of
these parameters. The viability of such analyses, which often necessitate
the inclusion of active comparators and additional work measuring costs and
QoL, within the context of controlled studies must be established early on
in the development process. If ‘registration oriented’ trials are
inappropriate, alternative strategies must be pursued.
Dysthymia and personality
Authors: Angst J
Published: July 2002

Data on dysthymia and personality presented here are derived from the Zurich cohort study, which followed 591 subjects from the ages of 20 to 35. From childhood on, dysthymics experienced themselves as far more anxious and less self-confident than did major depressives or controls. They manifested more behavioural problems and high neuroticism and introversion scores. Dysthymics scored low in terms of quality of life, self-esteem and mastery, whereas they scored high in avoiding/denying behaviours. The hypothesis is advanced that behavioural problems, anxiety, high levels of neuroticism and personality disorders constitute risk factors for chronic depression. Evidence is presented of the existence of bipolar dysthymia.
Description and classification of mental health services: a European perspective
Authors: Johnson S , Salvador-Carulla L
Published: July 2002

Whilst steady progress has been made in the development and dissemination of valid and reliable instruments for evaluation of patient outcomes, progress in establishing standard methodologies for description and classification of mental health services has been limited. Valid and reliable methods of describing and classifying services are needed in mental health services research for purposes including; i) comparison of levels of provision between catchment areas and countries; ii) reaching an understanding of the relationship between socio-demographic indicators and service use; iii) investigation of the degree to which one service may be substituted for another; iv) evaluating programme implementation; and v) understanding why different outcomes are observed from apparently similar treatment programmes. Where programmes of research encompass different countries, the need for methods of comparing the local service contexts is particularly acute. In this paper, the various contributions which have been made to the somewhat fragmented body of research in this area are reviewed, and the problems which have hampered the development of satisfactory instruments are discussed. A set of criteria for satisfactory service measurement methodologies is proposed: these include development of standard nomenclature and operational definitions of service types; clear demonstration of validity and reliability; comprehensiveness; and applicability and similar interpretation in a range of countries.
Discrepancy Between Multibiomarker Disease Activity and Clinical Disease Activity Scores in Patients With Persistently Active Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Fleischmann Roy , Liu Jingyu , Zhu Julie , Segurado Oscar G. , Furst Daniel E.
Published: March 2021

Objective

Responsive assessment of disease activity in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is necessary to evaluate therapeutic efficacy and guide treatment. We compared the utility of the multibiomarker disease activity (MBDA) score in the assessment of RA disease activity with that of the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28‐ESR) score and the Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) in a multicenter, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of repository corticotropin injection (RCI) in patients with persistently active RA.

Methods

Patients received 80 units of RCI twice weekly during a 12‐week open‐label period; those who experienced low disease activity at week 12 were randomly assigned to receive either 80 units of RCI or placebo twice weekly during a 12‐week double‐blind period. Changes in disease activity (measured by DAS28‐ESR, CDAI, and MBDA scores) and correlations between MBDA scores and both DAS28‐ESR and CDAI scores were assessed.

Results

Changes from baseline in DAS28‐ESR and CDAI scores suggested that RCI therapy led to clinically meaningful improvements in disease activity, but improvements from baseline in MBDA scores were below the minimally important difference threshold. For the DAS28‐ESR and CDAI, correlations with total MBDA and individual component scores were generally low (r ≤ 0.3) and occasionally moderate (r > 0.3 but r < 0.5).

Conclusion

The results of the present study suggest overall MBDA scores are not sufficiently responsive for assessing RA disease activity after RCI therapy. These findings are consistent with those seen with other RA drugs and, although they are from a clinical trial, suggest the MBDA should not be a preferred disease activity measure in clinical practice.
Systemic Immunotherapy with Micellar Resiquimod–Polymer Conjugates Triggers a Robust Antitumor Response in a Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Kakwere Hamilton , Zhang Hua , Ingham Elizabeth S. , Nura‐Raie Marina , Tumbale Spencer K. , Allen Riley , Tam Sarah M. , Wu Bo , Liu Cheng , Kheirolomoom Azadeh , Fite Brett Z. , Ilovitsh Asaf , Lewis Jamal S. , Ferrara Katherine W.
Published: March 2021

Resiquimod is an immunopotent toll‐like receptor 7/8 agonist with antitumor activity. Despite being potent against skin cancers, it is poorly tolerated systemically due to toxicity. Integrating resiquimod into nanoparticles presents an avenue to circumvent the toxicity problem. Herein, the preparation of degradable nanoparticles with covalently bound resiquimod and their systemic application in cancer immunotherapy is reported. Dispersion in water of amphiphilic constructs integrating resiquimod covalently bound via degradable amide or ester linkages yields immune‐activating nanoparticles. The degradable agonist–nanoparticle bonds allow the release of resiquimod from the carrier nanoparticles. In vitro assays with antigen presenting cells demonstrate that the nanoparticles retain the immunostimulatory activity of resiquimod. Systemic administration of the nanoparticles and checkpoint blockade (aPD‐1) to a breast cancer mouse model with multiple established tumors triggers antitumor activity evidenced by suppressed tumor growth and enhanced CD8+ T‐cell infiltration. Nanoparticles with ester links, which hydrolyze more readily, yield a stronger immune response with 75% of tumors eliminated when combined with aPD‐1. The reduced tumor growth and the presence of activated CD8+ T‐cells across multiple tumors suggest the potential for treating metastatic cancer.
Type‐II C2N/ZnTe Van Der Waals Heterostructure: A Promising Photocatalyst for Water Splitting
Authors: Chen Jingliang , Wei Xing , Zhang Ru , Liu Jian , Tian Ye , Zhang Yan , Guo Tingting , Fan Jibin , Ni Lei , Zhang Mingshuo , Duan Li
Published: March 2021

Based on density functional theory calculations under the framework of first‐principles, the electronic and optical characteristics of C2N/ZnTe van der Waals (vdW) heterostructure are investigated in detail. An inherent type‐II band alignment arises in the heterostructure, which possesses a 1.94 eV direct band gap. With light irradiation, the photogenerated electron‐hole pairs of heterostructure are separated on different monolayers. This helps to extending the lifetime of carriers. Additionally, the lower effective carrier mass is owned for the heterostructure. The heterostructure has suitable band gap and band edge positions, as well as, enhanced visible light absorption capacity, which can facilitate photocatalytic water splitting in acidic conditions. More interestingly, the redox reaction of photocatalytic water splitting can still proceed on the heterostructure after exerting a biaxial tensile strain of 2–6%. These results suggest that C2N/ZnTe vdW heterostructure will be a promising water splitting photocatalyst.
Influence of Wettability on the Impedance of Ion Transport Through Mesoporous Silica Films
Authors: Ochs Maria , Khalil Adnan , Frömling Till , Andrieu‐Brunsen Annette
Published: March 2021

Functionalized nanopores have attracted strong interest in different fields in which nanopore transport is essential. Detailed insights into mass transport through nanopores and its correlation to pore wall properties such as wettability are essential. The potential and challenges using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to analyze mass transport through mesoporous silica thin films with precisely adjusted wettability are discussed. The accessible area of the electrode, the charge transfer or film resistance and the diffusion coefficients of the redox probe [Ru(NH3)6]2+/3+ inside the mesopores are determined. The influence of experimental parameters such as silica film pre‐treatment is evaluated. Hydrophilic mesoporous films display comparable diffusion coefficients around 1*10–8 cm2 s–1 independently of the exact wettability. As expected, hydrophobic films do not exhibit transport due to water exclusion. The sample pre‐treatment strongly influences the transport characteristics. Incubation into aqueous KCl leads to a decrease in the resistance for all tested mesoporous films. This is ascribed to an increase in the silanol group concentration at the pore wall. Besides the insights into mass transport in mesoporous films and on how to measure EIS in such films, this study elucidates the importance of sample pre‐treatment and surface chemistry concerning mesoporous film performance.
Does direct observation happen early in a new competency‐based residency program?
Authors: Landreville Jeffrey M. , Frank Jason R. , Cheung Warren J.
Published: February 2021

Background

A key component of competency‐based medical education is workplace‐based assessment, which includes observation (direct or indirect) of residents. Direct observation has been emphasized as an ideal form of assessment yet challenges have been identified that may limit its adoption. At present, it remains unclear how often direct and indirect observation are being used within the clinical setting. The objective of this study was to describe patterns of observation in an emergency medicine competency‐based program 2 years postimplementation.

Methods

Emergency medicine residents (n = 19) recorded the type of observation they received (direct or indirect) following workplace‐based entrustable professional activity (EPA) assessments from December 15, 2019, to April 30, 2020. Assessment forms were reviewed and analyzed to describe patters of observation.

Results

Assessments were collected on all 19 eligible residents (100% participation). A total of 1,070 EPA assessments were completed during the study period, of which 798 (74.6%) had the type of observation recorded. Of these recorded observations, 546 (68.4%) were directly observed and 252 (31.6%) were indirectly observed. The length of written comments contained within assessments following direct and indirect observation did not differ significantly. There was no significant association between resident gender and observation type or resident stage of training and observation type. Certain EPA assessments showed a clear preference toward either direct or indirect observation.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to report patterns of observation in a competency‐based residency program. The results suggest that direct observation can be quickly adopted as the primary means of workplace‐based assessment. Indirect observation comprised a sizeable minority of observations and may be an underrecognized contributor to workplace‐based assessment. The preference toward either direct or indirect observation for certain EPA assessments suggests that the entrustable professional activity itself may influence the type of observation.
Pathways linking activity, adiposity, and inflammation to bone mineral density in women and men from NHANES 2007 to 2010
Authors: Griffin Jacob S. , Dent Sophia C. , Berger Steph M.
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Age, sedentary activity, central adiposity, and inflammation have all been independently associated with bone mineral density (BMD). We assessed how the effects of sedentary activity and central adiposity on BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck change across early to late adulthood and whether these relationships are mediated by inflammation.

Methods

We analyzed data from 7135 women and men 20 years of age and older from NHANES 2007 to 2010. Anthropometrics, sedentary activity (min/day), serum CRP (mg/dl), and BMD (gm/cm2 measured by DXA scans) at the femoral neck and lumbar spine. Data were compared by age and sex groups and through causal mediation analysis.

Results

The effect of waist circumference on BMD was significantly mediated by serum CRP at both skeletal sites in men and at the femoral neck in women. Sedentary activity did not have a direct relationship to BMD but was mediated by waist circumference in men. Least square means differed significantly by sex and age groups with a general age‐related decline in BMD at both skeletal sites.

Conclusions

We found that central adiposity, independent of overall body size and composition as measured through BMI, has an inverse relationship with BMD that is mediated by serum CRP. In addition, the negative impact of increased sedentism acted through changes in central adiposity (waist circumference) but only in men. Although low bone density and osteoporosis are often considered degenerative diseases that primarily impact postmenopausal women, our findings show that sedentary activity and central adiposity impact bone density beginning in early adulthood in both women and men.
A Genetically Encoded Two‐Dimensional Infrared Probe for Enzyme Active‐Site Dynamics
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Jia , Han Ming‐Jie , Zhang Lu , Chen Chao , Huang Aiping , Xie Ruipei , Wang Guosheng , Zhu Jiangrui , Wang Yuchuan , Liu Xiaohong , Zhuang Wei , Li Yunliang , Wang Jiangyun
Published: March 2021

While two‐dimensional infrared (2D‐IR) spectroscopy is uniquely suitable for monitoring femtosecond (fs) to picosecond (ps) water dynamics around static protein structures, its utility for probing enzyme active‐site dynamics is limited due to the lack of site‐specific 2D‐IR probes. We demonstrate the genetic incorporation of a novel 2D‐IR probe, m‐azido‐L‐tyrosine (N3Y) in the active‐site of DddK, an iron‐dependent enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of dimethylsulfoniopropionate to dimethylsulphide. Our results show that both the oxidation of active‐site iron to FeIII, and the addition of denaturation reagents, result in significant decrease in enzyme activity and active‐site water motion confinement. As tyrosine residues play important roles, including as general acids and bases, and electron transfer agents in many key enzymes, the genetically encoded 2D‐IR probe N3Y should be broadly applicable to investigate how the enzyme active‐site motions at the fs–ps time scale direct reaction pathways to facilitating specific chemical reactions.
Metal‐to‐Ligand Charge Transfer Induced Valence Tautomeric Forms of Non‐Innocent 2,2′‐Azobis(benzothiazole) in Ruthenium Frameworks
Authors: Singh Aditi , Panda Sanjib , Dey Sanchaita , Lahiri Goutam Kumar
Published: March 2021

The impact of metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer towards the redox noninnocence of 2,2′‐azobis(benzothiazole) (abbt) has been highlighted on coordination to {RuII(acac)2} (acac=2,4‐pentanedionato). It led to the authentication of a series of mononuclear and dinuclear complexes incorporating variable oxidation states of abbt (abbt0/.−/2−). Mononuclear 1 was identified as [RuIII(abbt.−)], a MLCT excited state of [RuII(abbt)]. Dinuclear 2 was however recognized as two discrete redox isomers: (i) radical bridged mixed‐valent meso‐[Ru2.5(μ‐abbt.−)Ru2.5] (2a) and (ii) dianionic ligand bridged isovalent meso‐[RuIII(μ‐abbt2−)RuIII] (2b), demonstrating unprecedented structural confirmation of valence tautomerism in azo‐based ligand systems. A crystal structure of [2]ClO4 validated the formation of [RuIII(μ‐abbt.−) RuIII]ClO4. Analysis of electronic structural forms of 1 and 2 in accessible redox states via spectroelectrochemistry and DFT revealed their electron reservoir feature.
Highly Curved Nanostructure‐Coated Co, N‐Doped Carbon Materials for Oxygen Electrocatalysis
Authors: Liang Zuozhong , Kong Ningning , Yang Chenxi , Zhang Wei , Zheng Haoquan , Lin Haiping , Cao Rui
Published: March 2021

Nitrogen‐doped graphene could catalyze the electrochemical reduction and evolution of oxygen, but unfortunately suffers from sluggish catalytic kinetics. Herein, for the first time, we report an onion‐like carbon coated Co, N‐doped carbon (OLC/Co‐N‐C) material, which possesses multilayers of highly curved nanostructures that form mesoporous architectures. These unique nanospheres are produced when surfactant micelles are introduced to synthesis precursors. Owing to the combined electronic effect and nanostructuring effect, our OLC/Co‐N‐C materials exhibit high bifunctional oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER) activity, showing a promising application in rechargeable Zn‐air batteries. Experimental results are rationalized by theoretical calculations, showing that the curvature of graphitic carbon plays a vital role in promoting activities of meta‐carbon atoms near graphitic N and ortho/meta carbon atoms close to pyridinic N.
The conservation of the endangered Mediterranean common dolphin (Delphinus delphis): Current knowledge and research priorities
Authors: Vella Adriana , Murphy Sinéad , Giménez Joan , de Stephanis Renaud , Mussi Barbara , Vella Joseph G. , Larbi Doukara Kamel , Pace Daniela Silvia
Published: March 2021

Preservation of endangered species is now recognized as a relevant component of regional and global conservation actions achieved through the maintenance of the remaining populations in a favourable conservation status. The Mediterranean common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) is listed as an Endangered subpopulation in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, with declining numbers in some of the areas where it has been studied for numerous years. Prey depletion, fisheries bycatch, pollution, health risks, and climate change are among the recognized threats that the species is facing in the region.

The existing national, regional, and international legislation pertinent to Mediterranean countries should aid greater science–policy–management integration and support innovative research and monitoring towards effective conservation. The challenges inherent in studying the pelagic D. delphis should not preclude the use of long‐term, year‐round, multiplatform surveys, side by side with the latest molecular tools, which aid our understanding of its populations' genetic diversity, resistance to diseases, and resilience in a semi‐enclosed fast‐changing sea.

Addressing the multiplicity of problems confronting the species requires collaborative effort at all levels to share and merge resources, data, and expertise more efficiently. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the Mediterranean common dolphin, the main threats, and knowledge gaps that are priorities for addressing its conservation, while providing clear recommendations for effectively safeguarding the species and its habitat at both local and regional levels.
Placenta accreta after postpartum tubal sterilisation and Novasure® endometrial ablation
Authors: Igbokwe Nnadozie , Glackin Kevin , Kaur Harpreet
Published: February 2021

Although rare, pregnancy can still occur after both tubal sterilization and endometrial ablation. The resulting pregnancy is often complicated by ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and adherent placenta. Endometrial ablation is not a contraceptive.
All‐alkoxide based deposition and properties of a multilayer La0.67Sr0.33MnO3/CoFe2O4/La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 film
Authors: Kumar P. Anil , Lashgari Koroush , Naim Katea Sarmad , Karis Olof , Jansson Kjell , Sarma D. D. , Westin Gunnar
Published: March 2021

Single and multilayer films of La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 and CoFe2O4 were deposited by spin‐coating. The all‐alkoxide precursors allowed inorganic gel films of extreme homogeneity to be formed and converted to phase pure complex oxides at low temperatures. La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 films were made with La‐ and Ca‐methoxy‐ethoxides and Mn19O12(moe)14(moeH)10 as precursors at 800 °C. The CoFe2O4 films were obtained at extremely low 275 °C, using a new CoFe2‐methoxyethoxide precursor. The decomposition and microstructural development on heating was described by TG, TEM, XRD and IR spectroscopy. XRD showed no spurious phases and the unit‐cell dimensions coincided quite well with literature values of the targeted phases. The structural, magnetic and electronic properties of these films established their phase purity and high quality with physical properties comparable to films deposited by physical deposition methods. The magnetic and magneto transport results are presented for single, bi‐ and tri‐ layer structures. The magnetically soft La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 layer was exchange coupled to the magnetically hard CoFe2O4 layer, giving rise to interesting switching behaviour in magnetism and magneto‐transport properties.
SPECTRE—A novel dMRI visualization technique for the display of cerebral connectivity
Authors: Reisert Marco , Kaller Christoph P. , Reuter Marvin , Urbach Horst , Sajonz Bastian E. , Reinacher Peter C. , Coenen Volker A.
Published: February 2021

The visualization of diffusion MRI related properties in a comprehensive way is still a challenging problem. We propose a simple visualization technique to give neuroradiologists and neurosurgeons a more direct and personalized view of relevant connectivity patterns estimated from clinically feasible diffusion MRI. The approach, named SPECTRE (Subject sPEcific brain Connectivity display in the Target REgion), is based on tract‐weighted imaging, where diffusion MRI streamlines are used to aggregate information from a different MRI contrast. Instead of using native MRI contrasts, we propose to use continuous template information as the underlying contrast for aggregation. In this respect, the SPECTRE approach is complementary to normative approaches where connectivity information is warped from the group level to subject space by anatomical registration. For the purpose of demonstration, we focus the presentation of the SPECTRE approach on the visualization of connectivity patterns in the midbrain regions at the level of subthalamic nucleus due to its importance for deep brain stimulation. The proposed SPECTRE maps are investigated with respect to plausibility, robustness, and test–retest reproducibility. Clear dependencies of reliability measures with respect to the underlying tracking algorithms are observed.
Vascular origins of low‐frequency oscillations in the cerebrospinal fluid signal in resting‐state fMRI: Interpretation using photoplethysmography
Authors: Attarpour Ahmadreza , Ward James , Chen J. Jean
Published: February 2021

In vivo mapping of cerebrovascular oscillations in the 0.05–0.15 Hz remains difficult. Oscillations in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) represent a possible avenue for noninvasively tracking these oscillations using resting‐state functional MRI (rs‐fMRI), and have been used to correct for vascular oscillations in rs‐fMRI functional connectivity. However, the relationship between low‐frequency CSF and vascular oscillations remains unclear. In this study, we investigate this relationship using fast simultaneous rs‐fMRI and photoplethysmogram (PPG), examining the 0.1 Hz PPG signal, heart‐rate variability (HRV), pulse‐intensity ratio (PIR), and the second derivative of the PPG (SDPPG). The main findings of this study are: (a) signals in different CSF regions are not equivalent in their associations with vascular and tissue rs‐fMRI signals; (b) the PPG signal is maximally coherent with the arterial and CSF signals at the cardiac frequency, but coherent with brain tissue at ~0.2 Hz; (c) PIR is maximally coherent with the CSF signal near 0.03 Hz; and (d) PPG‐related vascular oscillations only contribute to ~15% of the CSF (and arterial) signal in rs‐fMRI. These findings caution against averaging all CSF regions when extracting physiological nuisance regressors in rs‐fMRI applications, and indicate the drivers of the CSF signal are more than simply cardiac. Our study is an initial attempt at the refinement and standardization of how the CSF signal in rs‐fMRI can be used and interpreted. It also paves the way for using rs‐fMRI in the CSF as a potential tool for tracking cerebrovascular health through, for instance, the potential relationship between PIR and the CSF signal.
Insufficient Radiofrequency Ablation Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Metastasis Through N6‐Methyladenosine mRNA Methylation‐Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Su Tianhong , Huang Manling , Liao Junbin , Lin Shuibin , Yu Peng , Yang Jianhua , Cai Yuhong , Zhu Shenghua , Xu Lixia , Peng Zhenwei , Peng Sui , Chen Shuling , Kuang Ming
Published: February 2021

Background and Aims

The dynamic N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) mRNA modification is essential for acute stress response and cancer progression. Sublethal heat stress from insufficient radiofrequency ablation (IRFA) has been confirmed to promote HCC progression; however, whether m6A machinery is involved in IRFA‐induced HCC recurrence remains open for study.

Approach and Results

Using an IRFA HCC orthotopic mouse model, we detected a higher level of m6A reader YTH N6‐methyladenosine RNA binding protein 1‐3 (YTHDF1) in the sublethal‐heat–exposed transitional zone close to the ablation center than that in the farther area. In addition, we validated the increased m6A modification and elevated YTHDF1 protein level in sublethal‐heat–treated HCC cell lines, HCC patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) mouse model, and patients’ HCC tissues. Functionally, gain‐of‐function/loss‐of‐function assays showed that YTHDF1 promotes HCC cell viability and metastasis. Knockdown of YTHDF1 drastically restrains the tumor metastasis evoked by sublethal heat treatment in tail vein injection lung metastasis and orthotopic HCC mouse models. Mechanistically, we found that sublethal heat treatment increases epidermal factor growth receptor (EGFR) m6A modification in the vicinity of the 5′ untranslated region and promotes its binding with YTHDF1, which enhances the translation of EGFR mRNA. The sublethal‐heat–induced up‐regulation of EGFR level was further confirmed in the IRFA HCC PDX mouse model and patients’ tissues. Combination of YTHDF1 silencing and EGFR inhibition suppressed the malignancies of HCC cells synergically.

Conclusions

The m6A‐YTHDF1‐EGFR axis promotes HCC progression after IRFA, supporting the rationale for targeting m6A machinery combined with EGFR inhibitors to suppress HCC metastasis after RFA.
Evaluating quality of life in frailty: applicability and clinimetric properties of the SarQoL® questionnaire
Authors: Geerinck Anton , Locquet Médéa , Bruyère Olivier , Reginster Jean‐Yves , Beaudart Charlotte
Published: March 2021

Background

The SarQoL® questionnaire was specifically designed to measure quality of life (QoL) in sarcopenia. Frailty and sarcopenia have areas of overlap, notably weak muscle strength and slow gait speed, which may mean that the SarQoL could provide a measure of QoL in frailty. This study aimed to evaluate the clinimetric properties of the SarQoL questionnaire in physical frailty using the Fried criteria.

Methods

Analyses were carried out on data from the Sarcopenia and Physical impairment with advancing Age study. Frailty was assessed with the Fried criteria and QoL with the SarQoL, the Short‐Form 36‐Item, and the EuroQoL 5‐Dimension (EQ‐5D) questionnaires. We evaluated discriminative power (with the Kruskal–Wallis analysis of variance test), internal consistency (with Cronbach's alpha), construct validity (through hypotheses testing), test–retest reliability (with the intraclass correlation coefficient), measurement error (calculating standard error of measurement and smallest detectable change), and responsiveness (through hypotheses testing and standardized response mean).

Results

In total, 382 participants were included for the validation and 117 for the responsiveness evaluation. They had a median age of 73 (69–79) years, took 5 (3–8) drugs, and had 4 (3–5) co‐morbidities. There were more women (n = 223; 58.4%) than men and, in total, 172 (45%) robust, 167 (44%) pre‐frail, and 43 (11%) frail participants. Discriminative power was confirmed when significantly lower (P < 0.001) overall SarQoL scores, and thus also worse QoL, were observed between robust [77.1 (64.35–85.90)], pre‐frail [62.54 (53.33–69.57)], and frail [49.99 (40.45–56.06)] participants. Six of the SarQoL domains performed likewise, with significantly lower scores according to frailty status with Domain 7 (fears) being the exception. Internal consistency was good (α = 0.866). Convergent (using Short‐Form 36‐Item and EQ‐5D) and divergent construct validity (using EQ‐5D) was confirmed. Test–retest reliability was excellent [intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.918 (0.834–0.961)], with a standard error of measurement of 3.88 and a smallest detectable change of 10.76 points. We found moderate responsiveness when five of the nine hypotheses were confirmed, coupled with a large effect size for the overall SarQoL score (corrected standardized response mean of −1.44).

Conclusions

The SarQoL questionnaire has adequate clinimetric properties for use with frail patients in clinical practice and trials and could provide data that are more appropriate and detailed than the generic questionnaires currently used.
Real‐time bowel sound analysis using newly developed device in patients undergoing gastric surgery for gastric tumor
Authors: Namikawa Tsutomu , Yamaguchi Sachi , Fujisawa Kazune , Ogawa Maho , Iwabu Jun , Munekage Masaya , Uemura Sunao , Maeda Hiromichi , Kitagawa Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Michiya , Matsuda Kenichi , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: February 2021

Background and Aim

Objective measurements are not available for determining bowel sounds. The present study sought to evaluate the efficacy of a novel bowel sound monitoring system for perioperative use in patients undergoing gastric surgery.

Methods

The study enrolled 14 patients who underwent surgery for gastric cancer at Kochi Medical School from 2017 to 2018. Preoperative and postoperative bowel sounds were recorded using a newly developed real‐time analysis system in the operating theater and recovery room. Clinical information and bowel sound count data were obtained to compare preoperative and postoperative measures.

Results

The median preoperative and postoperative bowel sound counts across all patients were 1.4 and 2.5 counts per minute (cpm), respectively. In patients who underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy, the postoperative bowel sound count was significantly higher than that recorded preoperatively (2.3 vs. 1.6 cpm, P = 0.005). The findings also revealed a significant negative correlation between postoperative bowel sound count and operation time (r = −0.714, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

The real‐time bowel sound analysis system tested herein presents a promising diagnostic tool to quantitatively evaluate bowel movements associated with surgery. Our results suggested a need for shorter operation times for gastric procedures with respect to peristalsis recovery and supported the use of minimally invasive surgery.
Infrapyloric lymph node dissection in right hemicolectomy for colon cancer: Should prophylactic resection be recommended?
Authors: Sun Yueming , Zhang Dongsheng , Feng Yifei , Wang Yong , Xu Ziwei , Tang Junwei , Huang Yuanjian , Zhang Chuan
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

Infrapyloric lymph node dissection in right colon cancer patients remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the pattern of infrapyloric lymph node metastasis in right colon cancer patients.

Methods

Clinical and pathological data of 140 colon cancer patients who underwent radical right hemicolectomy and infrapyloric lymph node dissection were retrospectively examined. Patient characteristics, intraoperative conditions, postoperative recovery information, postoperative pathological findings, and follow‐up data were examined.

Results

About 19, 44, 73, and 4 patients had tumors located in the cecum, ascending colon, hepatic flexure, and right side of the transverse colon, respectively. The median number of harvested lymph nodes and that of positive lymph nodes were 24 (16–30) and 1 (0–7.75), respectively. The lymph node metastasis rate was 41.43% (58/140). The corresponding values for infrapyloric lymph nodes were 3 (1–4), 0 (0–0), and 0.71% (1/140), respectively. The median follow‐up duration was 19 (0–65) months in 131 (93.6%) patients. The 5‐year overall and disease‐free survival rates were 86.3% and 73.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

Given the low rate of infrapyloric lymph node metastasis in right colon cancer, lymph node dissection is recommended in patients with locally advanced colon cancer at the hepatic flexure and those with suspected infrapyloric lymph node metastasis.
Wound Healing Profile After 1064‐ and 532‐nm Picosecond Lasers With Microlens Array of In Vivo Human Skin
Authors: O′Connor Kelly , Cho Sung Bin , Chung Hye Jin
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study is to histologically characterize the wound healing process of in vivo human skin treated with 1064‐ and 532‐nm microlens array (MLA)‐type picosecond lasers.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Three patients (Fitzpatrick skin types II–IV), who were undergoing future cosmetic abdominoplasties, were treated with 1064‐ and 532‐nm MLA‐type lasers under different fluence settings. Treatments were performed 2 weeks, 1 week, and immediately prior to surgery. Skin samples were harvested from the resected tissue with 8 mm punch biopsies immediately after the abdominoplasties were performed.

Results

The study demonstrates that intraepidermal vacuoles, created from tissue damage induced by the laser, are histologically resolved within 1 week without persistent damage to the dermoepidermal junction or vasculature. After 2 weeks, all foci of microscopic epidermal necrotic debris had either resolved or migrated to more superficial levels in the stratum corneum. There was no evidence of persistent vascular damage, increased melanophages, or accumulation of melanin in the dermis at 2 weeks. Furthermore, the 1064‐nm picosecond laser with the high fluence setting demonstrated the capacity to fractionally ablate the epidermis and induce multifocal fibrosis in the papillary dermis in lighter skin types.

Conclusion

This is the first study to demonstrate the wound healing profile of in vivo human skin after treatment with the picosecond 1064‐ and 532‐nm MLA‐type lasers. It shows that laser‐induced tissue damage is histologically resolved within 2 weeks, clinically reflecting a favorable safety profile and short downtime. The study also shows that the picosecond laser can be used to induce either fractional ablative or non‐ablative effects, depending on the fluence settings used. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC