bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translation of Runge's 1873 publication “On the etiology and treatment of writer's cramp”: The first description of “tennis elbow”
Authors: Stegink‐Jansen Caroline W. , Jung Beate , Somerson Jeremy S.
Published: December 2021

This publication by Dr Ferdinand Runge is ubiquitously credited as first to describe the symptoms, pathology, and treatment of patients with lateral epicondylosis (tennis elbow). However, the main focus of his work was to provide insight into causes of writer's cramp and treatments for the condition, elegantly illustrated in four case reports. This work, recently cited as unavailable, is written in German. Given the high frequency of citations in the English literature, it was considered useful to translate it into English to widen access to a broader readership. The purpose of this project was briefly to introduce the life and clinical expertise of Dr. Ferdinand Runge and the content of his work, followed by a translation of the entire manuscript into English. The paper was translated by the three authors using a process of sequential consensus. All are proficient in German and English, with clinical expertise in both topics. A brief reflection is provided to place Dr Runge's observations, clinical reasoning, and contemporaneously available treatments in the context of current thinking about lateral epicondylalgia. Dr. Runge shares his expertise, carefully reporting pertinent examination findings for each case, sharing hypotheses about the etiology of writer's cramp, and using the effectiveness of his applied treatment as confirmation. He concludes that careful evaluation of the patient's activities that hindered writing prior to the onset of the writer's cramp is key to managing this ailment. The topics addressed in this classic work are still thought‐provoking.
Synthesizing magnetic graphene oxide nanomaterial (GO‐Fe3O4) and kinetic modelling of methylene blue adsorption from water
Authors: Tishbi Pedram , Mosayebi Mehdi , Salehi Zeinab , Fatemi Shohreh , Faegh Ehsan
Published: December 2021

Methylene blue (MB) is a frequently used dye in several industries that is detrimental both to human health and aquatic ecosystems. Graphene oxide (GO) has the application potential for dye removal from wastewater due to its high specific surface area; however, it suffers from a labourious separation step. In this work, magnetic GO nanostructure was prepared by co‐precipitation of ferrous salts in presence of GO to achieve a GO‐Fe3O4 hybrid. By choosing the proper ratio of GO to Fe3O4, the specific surface area of 280.26 m2/g could provide excellent adsorption capacity; the superparamagnetic property of the prepared adsorbent also ensures its magnetic separation from aqueous solutions. The results of adsorption experiments revealed that, within 2 min, 93%, 80%, and 50% of MB were separated from the solutions of 100, 120, 150 mg/L dye concentration, respectively. The adsorption of MB followed a pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model, and the equilibrium isotherm study indicated that experimental data were well fitted to the Langmuir isotherm model. The impact of pH and adsorbent dosage were investigated, and the results showed that the amount of adsorbed MB onto the GO‐Fe3O4 was sharply increased to 231.6 and 246 mg/g by increasing pH and adsorbent dosage up to 6 and 15 g, respectively. Thermodynamic parameters indicated that the adsorption process of MB is endothermic and spontaneous. In addition, GO‐Fe3O4 revealed a good regeneration ability by using ethanol as the desorbent. These results suggest that the proposed adsorbent has promising potential in removing dye from water resources.
Natriuretic peptides to differentiate constrictive pericarditis and restrictive cardiomyopathy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Diaz‐Arocutipa Carlos , Saucedo‐Chinchay Jose , Imazio Massimo , Argulian Edgar
Published: December 2021

Previous studies have shown that natriuretic peptide levels are increased in patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) but not in constrictive pericarditis (CP). We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the diagnostic utility of B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) to differentiate CP and RCM. We searched electronic databases from inception to January 07, 2021. Studies involving adult patients that assessed the utility of natriuretic peptides to differentiate CP and RCM were included. All meta‐analyses were performed using a random‐effects model. Seven studies (four case‐control and three cohorts) involving 204 patients were included. The mean age ranged between 25.7 and 64.1 years and 77% of patients were men. BNP levels were significantly lower (standardized median difference [SMD], −1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], −2.33 to −0.63) in patients with CP compared to RCM. The pooled area under the curve (AUC) of the BNP level was 0.81 (95% CI, 0.70–0.92). NT‐proBNP (SMD, −0.86; 95% CI, −1.38 to −0.33) and log NT‐proBNP (SMD, −1.89; 95% CI, −2.59 to −1.20) levels were significantly lower in patients with CP compared to RCM. Our review shows that BNP and NT‐proBNP levels were significantly lower in patients with CP compared to RCM. The pooled AUC of BNP level showed a good diagnostic accuracy to differentiate both conditions.
Numerical simulation in the abdominal aorta and the visceral arteries with or without stenosis based on 2D PCMRI
Authors: Peng Chen , Liu Junzhen , He Wei , Qin Wang , Yuan Tong , Kan Yuanqing , Wang Keqiang , Wang Shengzhang , Shi Yun
Published: December 2021

It is important to obtain accurate boundary conditions (BCs) in hemodynamic simulations. This article aimed to improve the accuracy of BCs in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation and analyze the differences in hemodynamics between healthy volunteers and patients with visceral arterial stenosis (VAS). The geometric models of seven cases were reconstructed using the magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) or computed tomography angiogram (CTA) imaging data. The physiological flow waveforms obtained from 2D Phase Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (PCMRI) were imposed on the aortic inlet and the visceral arteries' outlets. The individualized RCR values of the three‐element Windkessel model were imposed on the aortic outlet. CFD simulations were run in the open‐source software: svSolver. Two specific time points were selected to compare the hemodynamics of healthy volunteers and patients with VAS. The results suggested that blood in the stenotic visceral arteries flowed at high speed throughout the cardiac cycle. The low pressure is distributed at stenotic lesions. The wall shear stress (WSS) reached 4 Pa near stenotic locations. The low time average wall shear stress (TAWSS), high oscillatory shear index (OSI), and high relative residence time (RRT) concentrated in the abdominal aorta. Besides, the ratios of the areas with low TAWSS, high OSI, and high RRT to the computational domain were higher in patients with VAS than which in the healthy volunteers. The individualized BCs were used for hemodynamic simulations and results suggest that patients with stenosis have a higher risk of blood retention and atherosclerosis formation in the abdominal aorta.
Description of longitudinal tumor evolution in a case of multiply relapsed clear cell sarcoma of the kidney
Authors: Yaguchi Tomoki , Kimura Shunsuke , Sekiguchi Masahiro , Kubota Yasuo , Seki Masafumi , Yoshida Kenichi , Shiraishi Yuichi , Kataoka Keisuke , Fujii Yoichi , Watanabe Kentaro , Hiwatari Mitsuteru , Miyano Satoru , Ogawa Seishi , Takita Junko
Published: December 2021

Background

Clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK) is the second most common pediatric renal tumor.

Case

A 2‐year‐old boy was diagnosed with CCSK, which relapsed four times until he yielded to the disease at the age of 7 years. To characterize the longitudinal genetic alterations occurring in the present case, we performed targeted‐capture sequencing by pediatric solid tumors panel (381 genes) for longitudinally sampled tumors, including autopsy samples of metastasis. Internal tandem duplication of BCOR (BCOR‐ITD) was the only truncal mutation, confirming the previously reported role of BCOR‐ITD in CCSK.

Conclusion

Acquisition of additional mutations along tumor relapses and detection of metastasis‐specific mutations were reminiscent of the tumor progression and therapeutic resistance of this case, leading to clonal selection and a dismal fate.
SKI‐G‐801, an AXL kinase inhibitor, blocks metastasis through inducing anti‐tumor immune responses and potentiates anti‐PD‐1 therapy in mouse cancer models
Authors: Synn Chun‐Bong , Kim Sung Eun , Lee Hee Kyu , Kim Min‐Hwan , Kim Jae Hwan , Lee Ji Min , Jo Ha Ni , Lee Wongeun , Kim Dong Kwon , Byeon Youngseon , Kim Young Seob , Yun Mi Ran , Park Chae‐Won , Yun Jiyeon , Lim Sangbin , Heo Seong Gu , Yang San‐Duk , Lee Eun Ji , Lee Seul , Choi Hunmi , Lee You Won , Cho Jae Seok , Kim Do Hee , Park Sungho , Kim Jung‐Ho , Choi Yewon , Lee Sung Sook , Ahn Beung‐Chul , Kim Chang Gon , Lim Sun Min , Hong Min Hee , Kim Hye Ryun , Pyo Kyoung‐Ho , Cho Byoung Chul
Published: December 2021

Objectives

AXL‐mediated activation of aberrant tyrosine kinase drives various oncogenic processes and facilitates an immunosuppressive microenvironment. We evaluated the anti‐tumor and anti‐metastatic activities of SKI‐G‐801, a small‐molecule inhibitor of AXL, alone and in combination with anti‐PD‐1 therapy.

Methods

In vitro pAXL inhibition by SKI‐G‐801 was performed in both human and mouse cancer cell lines. Immunocompetent mouse models of tumor were established to measure anti‐metastatic potential of SKI‐G‐801. Furthermore, SKI‐G‐801, anti‐PD‐1 or their combination was administered as an adjuvant or neoadjuvant in the 4T1 tumor model to assess their potential for clinical application.

Results

SKI‐G‐801 robustly inhibited pAXL expression in various cell lines. SKI‐G‐801 alone or in combination with anti‐PD‐1 potently inhibited metastasis in B16F10 melanoma, CT26 colon and 4T1 breast models. SKI‐G‐801 inhibited the growth of B16F10 and 4T1 tumor‐bearing mice but not immune‐deficient mice. An antibody depletion assay revealed that CD8+ T cells significantly contributed to SKI‐G‐801‐mediated survival. Anti‐PD‐1 and combination group were observed the increased CD8+Ki67+ and effector T cells and M1 macrophage and decreased M2 macrophage, and granulocytic myeloid‐derived suppressor cell (G‐MDSC) compared to the control group. The neoadjuvant combination of SKI‐G‐801 and anti‐PD‐1 therapy achieved superior survival benefits by inducing more profound T‐cell responses in the 4T1 syngeneic mouse model.

Conclusion

SKI‐G‐801 significantly suppressed tumor metastasis and growth by enhancing anti‐tumor immune responses. Our results suggest that SKI‐G‐801 has the potential to overcome anti‐PD‐1 therapy resistance and allow more patients to benefit from anti‐PD‐1 therapy.
Impact of the improved parallel kinetic coefficients on the helium and neon transport in SOLPS‐ITER for ITER
Authors: Makarov S.O. , Coster D.P. , Rozhansky V.A. , Voskoboynikov S.P. , Kaveeva E.G. , Senichenkov I.Y. , Stepanenko A.A. , Zhdanov V.M. , Bonnin X.
Published: December 2021

New Grad–Zhdanov module is implemented in the SOLPS‐ITER code and applied to ITER impurity transport simulations. Significant difference appears in the helium transport due to improved parallel kinetic coefficients. As a result, 30% decrease of the separatrix‐averaged helium relative concentration is observed for the constant helium source and pumping speed. However, for the neon changes are less pronounce. Change of the impurity behaviour is discussed. For the first time the ion distribution functions are studied in the ITER scrape‐off layer conditions to reveal the origin of the kinetic coefficient improvements and theory limitations.
Trauma exposure and mental health outcomes among Central American and Mexican children held in immigration detention at the United States–Mexico border
Authors: Sidamon‐Eristoff Anne Elizabeth , Cohodes Emily M. , Gee Dylan G. , Peña Catherine Jensen
Published: December 2021

We explored the associations between early‐life adversity and migration‐related stress on the mental health of Central American and Mexican migrating children held in United States immigration detention facilities. Migrating children have high rates of trauma exposure prior to and during migration. Early‐life adversity increases risk for developing mental health disorders. Forced separation of migrating children from their parents at the United States–Mexico border potentially exacerbates this risk. We sought to determine whether exposure to trauma prior to immigration and specific features of immigration detention were associated with posttraumatic stress symptomatology. We interviewed parents of 84 migrating children (ages 1–17) after families were released from immigration detention facilities to assess children's migration‐ and detention‐related experiences. A modified version of the University of California Los Angeles Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Reaction Index was administered to assess children's PTSD symptoms and document trauma exposure. A total of 97.4% of children experienced at least one premigration traumatic event. PTSD symptom severity was most strongly predicted by premigration trauma and duration of parent–child separation. This study contributes to a growing empirical literature documenting that early‐life adversity increases risk of developing mental health disorders, particularly following additional stress exposure, and that remaining with parents during immigration detention may help mitigate children's stress response.
Species densities, assembly order, and competence jointly determine the diversity–disease relationship
Authors: Rosenthal Lisa M. , Brooks Wesley R. , Rizzo David M.
Published: December 2021

Since species vary in abundance and host competence (i.e., ability to get infected and transmit a pathogen), changes in species composition caused by biodiversity loss impacts disease dynamics. Forecasting effects of species composition on disease depends on community (dis)assembly, processes determining how species are added to (or lost from) communities. We simulated community assembly by planting mesocosms, nested along a richness gradient, and tested how relationships between richness, species assembly order, and overall density affect disease risk. Mesocosms with up to six crop species of varying competence were inoculated with a soilborne fungal pathogen, Rhizoctonia solani. Disease was measured as species‐level prevalence, community‐level prevalence, and total number of diseased plants. Regardless of metric, richness limited disease when species assembly order negatively correlated with competence and total density remained unchanged with richness. When density increased with richness or species assembled randomly, richness primarily correlated positively or weakly with disease. Our results align with theoretical expectations and represent the first empirical study to test the influence of species densities, assembly order, and competence on diversity–disease relationships.
Population responses of omnivorous arthropods to plant alternative resources suppress prey populations: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Rinehart Shelby , Long Jeremy D.
Published: December 2021

Omnivory is ubiquitous in ecological communities. Yet, we lack a consensus of how plant alternative resources impact the ability of omnivores to suppress prey populations. Previous work suggests that plant alternative resources can increase, decrease, or have no effect on the magnitude of omnivore−prey interactions. This discrepancy may arise from (1) the ability of omnivore populations to respond to plant alternative resources and (2) identity‐specific effects of plant alternative resources. We used a meta‐analysis to examine how omnivore population responses and the identity of plant alternative resources affect (1) omnivore predation rates (mainly reported as per capita predation rate) and (2) omnivore impacts on prey population density. Plant alternative resources reduced omnivore predation rate regardless of identity. The suppression of the predation rate by flowers and flowering plants was magnified when pollen alone was tested as the alternative resource. Surprisingly, plant alternative resource availability reduced prey density, suggesting that omnivore predation increased with plant alternative resources. This discrepancy (plant alternative resources not only decreased omnivore predation rates but also decreased prey density) resulted from experimental differences in the ability of omnivore populations to respond to plant alternative resources. In the presence of plant alternative resources, allowing omnivore population responses decreased prey density, while not allowing population responses increased prey density. Because omnivores commonly suppress prey density in the presence of plant alternative resources when population responses of omnivores are allowed, the effectiveness of biological control may depend upon the availability of such resources and the facilitation of population responses.
Induced Hepatic Glutathione and Metabolomic Alterations Following Mixed Pesticide and Fertilizer Exposures in Juvenile Leopard Frogs (Lithobates sphenocephala)
Authors: Van Meter Robin J. , Glinski Donna A. , Purucker S. Thomas , Henderson W. Matthew
Published: December 2021

The increasing use of agrochemicals, alone and in combination, has been implicated as a potential causative factor in the decline of amphibians worldwide. Fertilizers and pesticides are frequently combined into single-use tank mixtures for agricultural applications to decrease costs while meeting the food demands of a growing human population. Limited data are available on the effects of increased nitrogen levels in nontarget species, such as amphibians, and therefore investigating alterations in the nitrogen cycle and its impacts on amphibians needs to be considered in best management practices going forward. The objective of the present study was to elucidate the impact of fertilizer (urea) and herbicide (atrazine and/or alachlor) tank mixtures on the hepatic metabolome of juvenile leopard frogs as well as to investigate alterations in oxidative stress by relating these changes to glutathione (GSH) levels. Herbicide exposure only moderately increased this parameter in amphibians, however, urea alone and in combination with either atrazine or alachlor statistically elevated GSH levels. Interestingly, urea also inhibited pesticide uptake: calculated bioconcentration factors were greatly decreased for atrazine and alachlor when urea was present in the exposure mixture. Metabolomic profiling identified fluxes in hepatic metabolites that are involved in GSH and carbohydrate metabolic processes as well as altered intermediates in the urea cycle. Ultimately, understanding the biological impacts of nitrogenous fertilizers alone and in combination with pesticide exposure will inform best management practices to conserve declining amphibian populations worldwide. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:122–133. © 2021 SETAC
Optimization of drying conditions for Jackfruit pulp using Refractance Window Drying technology
Authors: Nansereko Sophie , Muyonga John , Byaruhanga Yusuf B.
Published: December 2021

Refractance window drying is a novel technology with high operational efficiency and high product quality retention compared with conventional drying methods. This study assessed the effect of refractance window dryer water temperature and pulp thickness on nutrient content and the antioxidant activity of jackfruit. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the drying temperature and fruit pulp thickness. Optimal drying temperature and pulp thickness were found to be 93.4°C and 2.56 mm, respectively. The respective values for the response variables drying time (min), ascorbic acid (mg/100 g), antioxidant activity (mg/100 g AA equiv) and total carotenoid content (μg/g) were 60.47, 17.97, 82.34, and 13.34, respectively. Models for prediction of these values had R2 values of .964, .980, .994, and .994, respectively, and nonsignificant lack of fit (p < .05). This indicates the suitability of the model in predicting the RWD operating conditions to produce quality dried jackfruit.
Adatom mediated adsorption of N‐heterocyclic carbenes on Cu(111) and Au(111)
Authors: Jain Mitisha , Gerstmann Uwe , Schmidt Wolf Gero , Aldahhak Hazem
Published: December 2021

The adsorption of N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) on Cu(111) and Au(111) surfaces is studied with density‐functional theory. The role of the molecular side groups as well as the surface morphology in determining the adsorption geometry are explored in detail. Flat‐laying NHCs, as observed experimentally for NHC with relatively small side groups, result from the adsorption at adatoms and give rise to the so‐called ballbot configurations, which are more stable than adsorption on flat surfaces and provide an efficient precursor for the formation of bis(NHC) dimers. On Au(111), the resulting (NHC)2Au complexes are purely physisorbed and thus mobile. On the more reactive Cu(111), in contrast, the central Cu atom in the (NHC)2Cu dimer is still covalently bound to the surface, resulting in a mobility, which has to be thermally activated.
A rapid and highly effective approach for SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acid daily testing in more than four thousand single‐tube samples
Authors: Zhou Yusun , Han Chunhua , Li Hui , Zhou Tingting , Geng Chao , Luan Xingwei , Feng Xiaodong , Sui Junna , Wang Shuai , Yu Teng , Xuan Chao , Tian Qingwu
Published: December 2021

Background

Presently, the global spread of COVID‐19 is still going on, with more than 0.6 million new cases confirmed per day (as of November 20, 2021). However, since China entered a post‐epidemic phase in mid‐March 2020, the daily number of new domestic infections in the Chinese mainland has been maintained at almost zero or single digits, which was attributed to a series of effective measures for COVID‐19 prevention and control adopted by the Chinese government. Among these measures, SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acid testing holds key role for the timely confirmation and isolation of the infections to prevent further transmission.

Methods

Referring to the national policy requirements, since April 30, 2020, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University has conducted SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acid testing in its PCR laboratory for patients and social workers, as well as for environmental monitoring and employee screening. As of mid‐November 2020, the daily amount of single‐tube samples for nucleic acid testing rose above 4,000.

Results

In this article, a rapid and highly effective approach for SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acid daily testing is presented, allowing five technicians to complete nucleic acid testing in 6,500 single‐tube samples in one day with a high level of quality. Using this approach, since the samples entered the PCR laboratory, all testing results were reported in 2.5–3 h with satisfactory quality control and precise reporting criterion as prerequisites.

Conclusion

This testing approach provides a referable workflow for other testing institutions and is expected to play an important role in COVID‐19 prevention and control.
Persistent reversed end‐diastolic flow of the middle cerebral artery: A rare and concerning finding
Authors: Chainarong Natthicha , Suwanrath Chitkasaem , Suksai Manaphat
Published: December 2021

Fetal reversed end‐diastolic flow of the middle cerebral artery is a rare ultrasound finding associated with pathological fetal conditions. Herein, we report the case of a fetus presenting with reversed end‐diastolic flow of the middle cerebral artery caused by extensive intracranial hemorrhage from maternal warfarin therapy. From a literature review, we present the clinical findings, etiologies, and outcomes of cases with fetal reversed end‐diastolic flow of the middle cerebral artery.
Structural abnormalities in paediatric moyamoya disease revealed by clinical magnetic resonance imaging, regionally distributed relative signal intensities and volumes
Authors: Ijner Prahar , Tompkins Grace , Shiohama Tadashi , Takahashi Emi , Levman Jacob
Published: December 2021

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare, progressive cerebrovascular disorder, with an unknown aetiology and pathogenesis. It is characterized by steno‐occlusive changes at the terminal portion of the internal carotid artery (ICA), which is accompanied by variable development of the basal collaterals called moyamoya vessels. In this study, we investigate the potential for structural T1 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to help characterize MMD clinically, with the help of regionally distributed relative signal intensities (RRSIs) and volumes (RRVs). These RRSIs and RRVs provide the ability to characterize aspects of regional brain development and represent an extension to existing automated biomarker extraction technologies. This study included 269 MRI examinations from MMD patients and 993 MRI examinations from neurotypical controls, with regional biomarkers compared between groups with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results demonstrate abnormal presentation of RRSIs and RRVs in the insula (15‐ to 20‐year old cohort, left AUC: 0.74, right AUC: 0.71) and the lateral orbitofrontal region (5‐ to 10‐year old cohort, left AUC: 0.67; 15–20 year cohort, left AUC: 0.62, right AUC: 0.65). Results indicate that RRSIs and RRVs may help in characterizing brain development, assist in the assessment of the presentation of the brains of children with MMD and help overcome standardization challenges in multiprotocol clinical MRI. Further investigation of the potential for RRSIs and RRVs in clinical imaging is warranted and supported through the release of open‐source software.
Groebke–Blackburn–Bienaymé multicomponent reaction coupled with unconventional Pictet–Spengler cyclization for the synthesis of imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine fused polycyclic heterocycles
Authors: Singh Rahul , Kumar Ravinder , Kaur Manpreet , Patil Madhuri T. , Sahoo Subash Chandra , Salunke Deepak B.
Published: December 2021

A diverse library of fused tetracyclic and pentacyclic imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine scaffolds was synthesized using an unconventional strategy, involving Groebke–Blackburn–Bienaymé (GBB) multicomponent reaction coupled with Pictet–Spengler (PS) cyclization. The reaction strategy involves the use of 2‐aminoazine, aldehyde, and 1,1,3,3‐tetramethyl butyl isocyanide in the GBB reaction followed by the dealkylation to generate a free amine, which on PS cyclization with another aldehyde generated a fused polycyclic heterocycle. A small set of 15 diverse polycyclic heterocycles were synthesized and their structures were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectrometric analyses. In addition, a single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction of one of the library members established the three‐dimensional structure of the polycyclic skeleton.
Initial evaluation of 99mTc‐labeled anti‐carcinoembryonic antigen single‐chain fragment variable for micro‐single‐photon emission computed tomography imaging in mice with colorectal cancer
Authors: Qin Xue , Meng Xiangxi , Xiong Yao , Guo Xiaoyi , Ren Yanan , Wen Li , Zhang Qian , Zhu Hua , Yang Zhi
Published: December 2021

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) has emerged as an important molecular target for several neoplastic diseases, including colorectal cancer with CEA over‐expression. In this study, we report the production and radiolabeling of a novel anti‐CEA single‐chain fragment variable (scFv‐96NRT, concentration for 50% of maximal effect 46 ng/ml), and evaluation of [99mTc]Tc‐scFv‐96NRT in non‐invasive detection of CEA expression. [99mTc]Tc‐scFv‐96NRT was synthesized by one step reduction in labeling yield of >95% with radiochemical purity of >98% and molar activity of 10–11 GBq/μmol. [99mTc]Tc‐scFv‐96NRT showed high stability in 0.01 M phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) and 5% human serum albumin (HSA). It exhibited elevated uptake in CEA over‐expressing cells. Biodistribution studies in BALB/c mice revealed that the probe was cleared from blood rapidly, and the highest retention was observed in the kidneys. The micro‐single‐photon emission computed tomography (micro‐SPECT) imaging of [99mTc]Tc‐scFv‐96NRT showed a specific accumulation pattern, as blocking experiment with excess scFv‐96NRT suppressed the tumor uptake. These preliminary results suggest that [99mTc]Tc‐scFv‐96NRT is a potential non‐invasive molecular probe for imaging tumors with CEA over‐expression.
The neutrophil elastase‐upregulated placenta growth factor promotes the pathogenesis and progression of periodontal disease
Authors: Tseng Hsiu‐Yang , Chen Yi‐Wen , Lee Bor‐Shiunn , Chang Po‐Chun , Wang Yi‐Ping , Lin Chun‐Pin , Cheng Shih‐Jung , Kuo Mark Yen‐Ping , Hou Hsin‐Han
Published: December 2021

Background

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease. Given its high prevalence, especially in aging population, the detailed mechanisms about pathogenesis of periodontal disease are important issues for study. Neutrophil firstly infiltrates to periodontal disease‐associated pathogen loci and amplifies the inflammatory response for host defense. However, excessive neutrophil‐secreted neutrophil elastase (NE) damages the affected gingival. In lung and esophageal epithelium, NE had been proved to upregulate several growth factors including placenta growth factor (PGF). PGF is an angiogenic factor with proinflammatory properties, which mediates the progression of inflammatory disease. Therefore, we hypothesize excessive NE upregulates PGF and participates in the pathogenesis and progression of periodontal disease.

Methods

In gingival epithelial cells (GEC), growth factors array demonstrated NE‐increased growth factors and further be corroborated by Western blot assay and ELISA. The GEC inflammation was evaluated by ELISA. In mice, the immunohistochemistry results demonstrated ligature implantation‐induced neutrophil infiltration and growth factor upregulation. By multiplex assay, the ligature‐induced proinflammatory cytokines level in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were evaluated. Finally, alveolar bone absorption was analyzed by micro‐CT images and H & E staining.

Results

NE upregulated PGF expression and secretion in GEC. PGF promoted GEC to secret IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in GCF In periodontal disease animal model, ligature implantation triggered NE infiltration and PGF expression. Blockade of PGF attenuated the ligature implantation‐induced IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α and MIP‐2 secretion and ameliorated the alveolar bone loss in mice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the NE‐induced PGF triggers gingival epithelium inflammation and promotes the pathogenesis and progression of periodontal disease.
Diagnostic Performance of Strain and Shear Wave Elastography for the Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Jin Jian , Liu Yong Hong , Zhang Bo
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To investigate the diagnostic performance of strain and shear wave elastography for the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in breast cancer patients.

Methods

Relevant studies were searched in the databases of PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library until October 2021. The diagnostic performance of ultrasonic elastography for the response to NAC were estimated by calculating the area under the curve (AUC) with sensitivity and specificity using Stata 14.0.

Results

A total of 15 studies that comprise 1147 breast cancer patients were included in this meta‐analysis. The pooled AUC of strain elastography in diagnosing responses were 0.89 (95% CI = 0.86–0.91) with 87% (95% CI = 75–94%) of sensitivity and 80% (95% CI = 72–84%) of specificity. The pooled AUC of shear wave elastography in diagnosing response were 0.82 (95% CI = 0.78–0.85) with 79% (95% CI = 72–84%) of sensitivity and 81% (95% CI = 71–88%). No publication bias was observed across the studies using Deek's funnel plot.

Conclusions

Based on current evidence, this meta‐analysis confirmed that strain and shear wave elastography exhibited favorable performance for predicting responses to NAC. Strain and shear wave elastography may be a useful, noninvasive method for the assessment of response to NAC in breast cancer patients.
A chemical kinetic mechanism for combustion and flame propagation of CH2F2/O2/N2 mixtures
Authors: Burgess Donald R. , Babushok Valeri I. , Manion Jeffrey A.
Published: December 2021

In this work, we compiled and evaluated rate expressions for reactions relevant to the decomposition and combustion of CH2F2 (difluoromethane, refrigerant R‐32) in CH2F2/O2/N2 flames. The recommended values have been used in premixed flame calculations, reported elsewhere, to model experimentally derived burning velocities determined using a constant volume spherical flame method. In this work, we also provide a detailed description of the reaction pathways for decomposition and combustion of CH2F2. This work is part of a larger effort at NIST to characterize and predict the flammability of new refrigerant working fluids and their blends for consideration as replacements of current refrigerants with high global warming potentials.
Time decay for porosity problems
Authors: Baldonedo Jacobo , Fernández José R. , Quintanilla Ramón
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we numerically study porosity problems with three different dissipation mechanisms. The root behavior is analyzed for each case. Then, by using the finite element method and the Newmark‐β scheme, fully discrete approximations are introduced and some numerical results are described to show the energy evolution depending on the viscosity coefficient.
A fractional‐order mathematical model for analyzing the pandemic trend of COVID‐19
Authors: Agarwal Praveen , Ramadan Mohamed A. , Rageh Abdulqawi A. M. , Hadhoud Adel R.
Published: December 2021

Many countries worldwide have been affected by the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID‐19) that was first reported in China. To understand and forecast the transmission dynamics of this disease, fractional‐order derivative‐based modeling can be beneficial. We propose in this paper a fractional‐order mathematical model to examine the COVID‐19 disease outbreak. This model outlines the multiple mechanisms of transmission within the dynamics of infection. The basic reproduction number and the equilibrium points are calculated from the model to assess the transmissibility of the COVID‐19. Sensitivity analysis is discussed to explain the significance of the epidemic parameters. The existence and uniqueness of the solution to the proposed model have been proven using the fixed‐point theorem and by helping the Arzela–Ascoli theorem. Using the predictor–corrector algorithm, we approximated the solution of the proposed model. The results obtained are represented by using figures that illustrate the behavior of the predicted model classes. Finally, the study of the stability of the numerical method is carried out using some results and primary lemmas.
Non‐invasive exhaled breath diagnostic and monitoring technologies
Authors: Ma Pengze , Li Jiaqi , Chen Yongxing , Zhou Montano Baiyang Antonio , Luo Huijian , Zhang Di , Zheng Huadan , Liu Yihua , Lin Haoyang , Zhu Wenguo , Zhang Guanfeng , Mao Hua , Yu Jianhui , Chen Zhe
Published: December 2021

With the rapid development of laser technology, information technology, and materials, the detection of trace gas has been taken to a new level. Advanced analytical methods were invented, for example, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, chemical sensors, absorption spectrum, and so forth. With the detailed data gathered from new high‐tech equipment, we can predict and diagnose diseases such as diabetic ketoacidosis, irritable bowel syndrome, lung cancer and so on. However, there is still a large amount of exhaled gas that has not been discovered, which means that breath analysis of exhaled gas is a very promising field in the future. Non‐invasive breath diagnosis and monitoring technology have attracted huge attention from all over the world. Using exhaled gas to diagnose and monitor human disease has numerous advantages for being non‐invasive, convenient and environment friendly.
Probe distance error analysis for phased array calibration based on BTM
Authors: Lu Yangyi , Shi Suyang , Cui Mantang , Zhou Lei
Published: December 2021

Based on backward transformation method (BTM), the probe distance error analysis in z‐axis for phased array calibration is described. When BTM is employed in phased array calibration to obtain the electric field over the radiation aperture of antenna, the Taylor expansion of probe distance error is used for analyzing the accuracy of reconstructed aperture field. It is found that probe distance error less than 1/35 of a wavelength is recommended. To verify this conclusion, the measured results demonstrate the validation of this analysis, which is helpful in the near‐field calibration for phased array.
Free‐breathing three‐dimensional isotropic‐resolution MR sequence for simultaneous vessel wall imaging of bilateral renal arteries and abdominal aorta: Feasibility and reproducibility
Authors: Ning Zihan , Zhang Nan , Qiao Huiyu , Han Hualu , Shen Rui , Yang Dandan , Chen Shuo , Zhao Xihai
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Many diseases can simultaneously involve renal arteries and the adjacent abdominal aorta. This study proposed a free‐breathing three‐dimensional (3D) isotropic‐resolution magnetic resonance sequence for simultaneous vessel wall imaging (VWI) of bilateral renal arteries and adjacent abdominal aorta.

Methods

A respiratory‐triggered isotropic‐resolution sequence that combined the improved motion‐sensitized driven‐equilibrium (iMSDE) preparation with the spoiled gradient recalled (SPGR) readout (iMSDE‐SPGR) was proposed for simultaneous VWI of renal arteries and abdominal aorta. The proposed iMSDE‐SPGR sequence was optimized by positioning spatial saturation pulses (i.e., REST slabs) elaborately to further alleviate respiratory and gastrointestinal motion artifacts and selecting appropriate first‐order gradient moment (m1) of the iMSDE preparation. Thirteen healthy subjects and 13 patients with renal artery stenosis underwent simultaneous VWI with the optimized iMSDE‐SPGR sequence at 3.0 T. Signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), and morphology of renal arterial wall and aortic wall were measured. Reproducibility of intra‐observer, inter‐observer, and scan–rescan (n = 13 healthy subjects) in measuring SNR, CNR, and morphology was evaluated. For the reproducibility test, the agreement was determined using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and the differences were compared using paired t‐test or nonparametric Wilcoxon test when appropriate. Bland–Altman plots were used to calculate the bias between observers and between scans.

Results

The proposed iMSDE‐SPGR sequence was feasible for simultaneous VWI both in the healthy subjects and the patients. The sequence showed good to excellent inter‐observer (ICC: 0.615‐0.999), excellent intra‐observer (ICC: 0.801‐0.998), and scan–rescan (ICC: 0.768‐0.998) reproducibility in measuring morphology, SNR, and CNR. There were no significant differences in SNR, CNR, and morphology measurements between observers and between scans (all p > 0.05). Bland–Altman plots showed small bias in assessing SNR, CNR, and morphology.

Data conclusion

The proposed free‐breathing 3D isotropic‐resolution iMSDE‐SPGR technique is feasible and reproducible for simultaneous VWI of bilateral renal arteries and adjacent abdominal aorta.
Effects of echo time on IVIM quantifications of locally advanced breast cancer in clinical diffusion‐weighted MRI at 3 T
Authors: Egnell Liv , Jerome Neil P. , Andreassen Maren M. S. , Bathen Tone F. , Goa Pål Erik
Published: December 2021

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of echo time dependence in IVIM quantification of the pseudo‐diffusion fraction in breast cancer and whether correcting for the echo time dependence offers added clinical value.

Materials and methods: Fifteen patients with biopsy‐proven breast cancer underwent a 3 T MRI examination with an extended DWI protocol at two different echo times (TE = 53 ms, b = 0, 50 s/mm2; TE = 77 ms, b = 0, 50, 120, 200, 400, 700 s/mm2). Volumes of interest were delineated around the tumors. In addition, simulated MRI data were generated for different levels of signal‐to‐noise ratio and two values for the blood T2 relaxation time (T2p = 100 ms and 150 ms). The pseudo‐diffusion signal fraction was estimated from the simulated and in vivo tumor data using both the standard IVIM model and an extended IVIM model that accounts for the echo time dependence arising from distinct transverse relaxation times.

Results: Simulations showed that the standard IVIM model overestimated the pseudo‐diffusion fraction by 25% (T2p = 100 ms) and 60 % (T2p = 150 ms) (p < 0.0001 at SNR = 50). In vivo, the estimated apparent T2 value at b = 50 s/mm2 was around 8% lower than at b = 0 s/mm2 (p = 0.01) demonstrating a removal of the signal contribution from blood with long T2 associated with pseudo‐diffusion. Using two different fixed values for T2p = 100, 150 ms, the pseudo‐diffusion fraction was 15% and 46% higher in the standard model compared with the echo‐time‐corrected model (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: The standard IVIM model was found to overestimate the pseudo‐diffusion fraction by 15% to 46% compared with the echo‐time‐corrected model in breast tumor DWI data acquired at 3 T. Our results suggest that a corrected model may give more accurate results in terms of signal fractions, but may not justify the added time needed to acquire the additional data in terms of clinical value.
“It is hard to say ‘no’ to someone who wants to help”: An exemplary model of corporate volunteer management and its challenges
Authors: Liang Xiaoyan , Amarakoon Upamali , Bird Susan , Pearson David
Published: December 2021

Despite the growth and popularity of corporate volunteering, a small, albeit growing stream of studies representing the nonprofit's perspectives focus on either “why” or “triple win” outcome of the corporate volunteer programs, not much is known about the process of internal management and strategy development of corporate volunteering programs. This study aims to examine the understudied strategy and management process of nonprofits in corporate volunteer‐related partnerships. Based on interview and observation data collected from 2018 to 2019 from an Australian nonprofit organization specializing in food rescue, the authors investigate its exemplary corporate volunteering management practices and the challenges it faces. Findings reveal three dimensions of management imperatives and two sets of management challenges that have not been addressed in the literature. This study advances corporate volunteer management literature from the nonprofit's perspective by providing a promising model for designing and implementing an effective corporate volunteer management program. It also highlights the ensuing challenges this model might face.
Stochastic electrical resistivity tomography with ensemble smoother and deep convolutional autoencoders
Authors: Aleardi Mattia , Vinciguerra Alessandro , Stucchi Eusebio , Hojat Azadeh
Published: December 2021

To reduce both the computational cost of probabilistic inversions and the ill‐posedness of geophysical problems, model and data spaces can be reparameterized into low‐dimensional domains where the inverse solution can be computed more efficiently. Among the many compression methods, deep learning algorithms based on deep generative models provide an efficient approach for model and data space reduction. We present a probabilistic electrical resistivity tomography inversion in which the data and model spaces are compressed through deep convolutional variational autoencoders, while the optimization procedure is driven by the ensemble smoother with multiple data assimilation, an iterative ensemble‐based algorithm. This method iteratively updates an initial ensemble of models that are generated according to a previously defined prior model. The inversion outcome consists of the most likely solution and a set of realizations of the variables of interest from which the posterior uncertainties can be numerically evaluated. We test the method on synthetic data computed over a schematic subsurface model, and then we apply the inversion to field measurements. The model predictions and the uncertainty assessments provided by the presented approach are also compared with the results of a Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling working in the compressed domains, a gradient‐based algorithm and with the outcomes of an ensemble‐based inversion running in the uncompressed spaces. A finite‐element code constitutes the forward operator. Our experiments show that the implemented inversion provides most likely solutions and uncertainty quantifications comparable to those yielded by the ensemble‐based inversion running in the full model and data spaces, and the Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling, but with a significant reduction of the computational cost.
Survival of pediatric patients requiring admission in the intensive care unit post hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: Prognostic factors associated with mortality
Authors: Zaidman Irina , Mohamad Hadhud , Shalom Lidor , Ben Arush Myriam , Even‐Or Ehud , Averbuch Dina , Zilkha Amir , Braun Jacques , Mandel Asaf , Kleid David , Attias Ori , Ben‐Ari Josef , Brooks Rebecca , Gefen Aharon , Stepensky Polina
Published: December 2021

Background

Although hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative option for some children with malignant and nonmalignant disorders, the procedure itself carries a high risk of complications. A proportion of children undergoing HSCT develop severe transplant‐related complications requiring hospitalization in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study included 793 children with malignant and nonmalignant diseases that underwent 963 HSCTs in two large pediatric hospitals over 15 years. Ninety‐one patients needed 105 (11%) PICU admissions. The objective of the study was to analyze the risk factors associated with morbidity and mortality in children post HSCT who were admitted to the PICU.

Results

Survival rate of a single PICU hospitalization was 43%. Long‐term survival rate (classified as 1 year and 3 years) was 29.1% and 14.9% among PICU hospitalized patients compared with 74.6% and 53.3% among patients who had undergone HSCT and did not require PICU hospitalization. Factors found to have a significant negative association with PICU survival were respiratory failure as indication for PICU admission, neutropenia, graft‐versus‐host disease, mechanical ventilation, inotropic support, need for dialysis, and multiple‐organ failure (MOF) with more than one systemic intensive intervention. The strongest prognostic factors associated with mortality were MOF (p < .001) and the need for inotropic support (p = .004).

Conclusions

Neutropenia was found to be negatively associated with survival, suggesting non‐engraftment and late engraftment are important risk factors for HSCT patients hospitalized in PICU. MOF and inotropic support were found to be the main negatively associated predictive factors with survival.