bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of the change in burden, strain, mood, and quality of life among caregivers of Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Santos‐García Diego , de Deus Fonticoba Teresa , Cores Bartolomé Carlos , Íñiguez Alvarado Maria Cristina , Feal Panceiras Maria J. , Suárez Castro Ester , Canfield Héctor , Martínez Miró Cristina , Jesús Silvia , Aguilar Miquel , Pastor Pau , Planellas Lluís , Cosgaya Marina , García Caldentey Juan , Caballol Nuria , Legarda Ines , Hernández Vara Jorge , Cabo Iria , López Manzanares Lydia , González Aramburu Isabel , Ávila Rivera Maria A. , Gómez Mayordomo Víctor , Nogueira Víctor , Puente Víctor , Dotor García‐Soto Julio , Borrué Carmen , Solano Vila Berta , Álvarez Sauco María , Vela Lydia , Escalante Sonia , Cubo Esther , Carrillo Padilla Francisco , Martínez Castrillo Juan C. , Sánchez Alonso Pilar , Alonso Losada Maria G. , Ariztegui Nuria López , Gastón Itziar , Kulisevsky Jaime , Blázquez Estrada Marta , Seijo Manuel , Martínez Javier Rúiz , Valero Caridad , Kurtis Mónica , de Fábregues Oriol , González Ardura Jessica , Alonso Redondo Ruben , Ordás Carlos , López DíazL Luis M. , McAfee Darrian , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Mir Pablo ,   COPPADIS Study Group
Published: May 2022

Background and Objective

Caregiver burden in Parkinson's disease (PD) has been studied in many cross‐sectional studies but poorly in longitudinal ones. The aim of the present study was to analyze the change in burden, strain, mood, and quality of life (QoL) after a 2‐year follow‐up in a cohort of caregivers of patients with PD and also to identify predictors of these changes.

Patients and Methods

PD patients and their caregivers who were recruited from January/2016 to November/2017 from 35 centers of Spain from the COPPADIS cohort were included in the study. They were evaluated again at 2‐year follow‐up. Caregivers completed the Zarit Caregiver Burden Inventory (ZCBI), Caregiver Strain Index (CSI), Beck Depression Inventory‐II (BDI‐II), and EUROHIS‐QOL 8‐item index (EUROHIS‐QOL8) at baseline (V0) and at 2‐year follow‐up (V2). General linear model repeated measure and lineal regression models were applied.

Results

Significant changes, indicating an impairment, were detected on the total score of the ZCBI (p < 0.0001), CSI (p < 0.0001), BDI‐II (p = 0.024), and EUROHIS‐QOL8 (p = 0.002) in 192 PD caregivers (58.82 ± 11.71 years old; 69.3% were females). Mood impairment (BDI‐II; β = 0.652; p < 0.0001) in patients from V0 to V2 was the strongest factor associated with caregiver's mood impairment after the 2‐year follow‐up. Caregiver's mood impairment was the strongest factor associated with an increase from V0 to V2 on the total score of the ZCBI (β = 0.416; p < 0.0001), CSI (β = 0.277; p = 0.001), and EUROHIS‐QOL (β = 0.397; p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Burden, strain, mood, and QoL were impaired in caregivers of PD patients after a 2‐year follow‐up. Mood changes in both the patient and the caregiver are key aspects related to caregiver burden increase.
Combination of tofogliflozin and pioglitazone for NAFLD: Extension to the ToPiND randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yoneda Masato , Kobayashi Takashi , Honda Yasushi , Ogawa Yuji , Kessoku Takaomi , Imajo Kento , Nogami Asako , Taguri Masataka , Kirikoshi Hiroyuki , Saito Satoru , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: May 2022

The incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has recently increased and is related to obesity and the associated surge in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndromes. This trial follows up on our previous work and forms part of the ToPiND study. We aimed to combine tofogliflozin and pioglitazone treatment for hepatic steatosis in patients with NAFLD and T2DM. In this open‐label, prospective, single‐center, randomized clinical trial, patients with NAFLD with T2DM and a hepatic fat fraction of ≥10% were assessed based on magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction. Eligible patients received either 20 mg tofogliflozin or 15–30 mg pioglitazone orally, once daily for 24 weeks, followed by combination therapy with both medicines for an additional 24 weeks. The effects on diabetes mellitus and hepatic steatosis were examined at baseline and after the completion of monotherapy and combination therapy. Thirty‐two eligible patients received the combination therapy of tofogliflozin and pioglitazone. The combination therapy showed additional improvement in glycated hemoglobin compared with each monotherapy group and showed improvement in steatosis, hepatic stiffness, and alanine aminotransferase levels compared with the tofogliflozin monotherapy group. Pioglitazone monotherapy–mediated increase in body weight decreased following concomitant use of tofogliflozin. The combination therapy resulted in lower triglyceride, higher high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, higher adiponectin, and higher ketone body levels. Conclusion: In addition to the additive effects of tofogliflozin and pioglitazone in patients with T2DM and NAFLD, combination therapy was suggested to reduce weight gain and induce cardioprotective effect. Further studies with more patients are needed to investigate the combination therapy of various drugs.
Thermal characteristics of hydrated salt blended with Tio2 for thermal energy storage
Authors: Singh Varun Kumar , Kumar Devesh , Sanjay
Published: May 2022

Development leads to an increment in the demand for energy. Conventional sources of energy are fulfilling our energy demands but they are crossing environmental barriers resulting in adverse climatic change. Renewable source of energy is becoming popular as a solution to the energy crisis. To reduce the gap between energy demand and supply, energy storage methods should be developed more. In this paper, performance improvement of phase change material for energy storage purposes has been investigated. NaNO3/KNO3, which is a salt hydrate, is used as a phase change material. The weight proportion of NaNO3 and KNO3 is 55% and 45%, respectively. TiO2 is used as an additive for performance improvement of phase change material in nanoparticle form with different particle sizes of 10, 20, and 30 nm. All the abovementioned nanoparticles were blended with phase change material (PCM) to make three different samples for testing. The weight percentage of TiO2 is constant in every sample, which is 5%. Specific heat, thermal conductivity, charging, and discharging of PCM have been measured for different particle sizes along with the effects of temperature variation on the abovementioned properties. Specific heat has shown an increment by 16%, 20.5%, and 23.6%, and thermal conductivity has shown a decrement by 13%, 16.5%, and 21.5% for 10, 20, and 30 nm particle sizes, respectively. Blending with TiO2 has increased the rate of heating and decreased the rate of cooling of phase change material.
Performance of HPV E6/E7 mRNA assay as primary screening test: Results from the NTCC2 trial
Authors: Giorgi Rossi Paolo , Ronco Guglielmo , Mancuso Pamela , Carozzi Francesca , Allia Elena , Bisanzi Simonetta , Gillio‐Tos Anna , De Marco Laura , Rizzolo Raffaella , Gustinucci Daniela , Del Mistro Annarosa , Frayle Helena , Confortini Massimo , Iossa Anna , Cesarini Elena , Bulletti Simonetta , Passamonti Basilio , Gori Silvia , Toniolo Laura , Barca Alessandra , Bonvicini Laura , Venturelli Francesco , Benevolo Maria ,   NTCC2 Working Group
Published: May 2022

As the primary screening test, E6/E7 mRNA has shown similar sensitivity for CIN3+ and lower positivity rate than the HPV DNA test. Nevertheless, the overall mRNA positivity is too high for immediate colposcopy, making a triage test necessary. The aim was to estimate the mRNA performance as a primary test with different triage strategies. All HPV DNA‐positives were tested for mRNA, cytology and p16/ki67. A sample of HPV DNA‐negatives was also tested for mRNA to estimate test specificity. We included all CIN3+ histologically diagnosed within 24 months since recruitment. Of the 41 127 participants, 7.7% were HPV DNA‐positive, of which 66.4% were mRNA‐positive. Among the HPV DNA‐negatives, 10/1108 (0.9%) were mRNA‐positive. Overall, 97 CIN3+ were found. If mRNA was used as the primary test, it would miss about 3% of all CIN3+ with a 22% reduction of positivity compared with HPV DNA. The weighted specificity estimate for <CIN2 was 94.5% (95% CI = 93.9%‐94.9%) and sensitivity for CIN3+ was 96.9% (95% CI = 91.3%‐99.1%). If all the weighted estimated 6.0% mRNA‐positive women had been referred to colposcopy, PPV for CIN3+ would have been 4.2%. Cytology or p16/ki67 triage would decrease immediate referral to 1.7% and 2.0%, increasing PPV to 11.2% and 11.7%, respectively; total colposcopy referral would be 4.0% and 3.9%, respectively. As the primary screening test, the mRNA assay showed a positivity rate lower than that of HPV DNA, with a small number of CIN3+ missed. Triage with cytology or p16/ki67 would only marginally decrease overall colposcopy referral.
At the feet of storytellers: Implications for practicing early relational health conversations
Authors: Charlot‐Swilley Dominique , Condon Marie‐Celeste , Rahman Tininka
Published: May 2022

A family‐ and culturally‐centered approach to conversations about early relational health (ERH) can open up opportunities for universal family engagement. The appraisal of family‐baby relational health is more trustworthy and useful when there is attunement to family voice and facilitator bias. Early Relational Health Conversations (ERH‐C) is a model for ERH promotion and intervention. This model has eight components: preparing and entering the ERH‐C space, accessing strength and knowledge in a healing‐centered space, pausing and co‐creating, storytelling, witnessing, mutual reflection, affirming, and claiming their relationship narrative, and mutual insight. It is a paradigm shift in working with African American families and possibly other historically marginalized families who are also impacted by structural racism. The eight components are explained, and examples are given from the perspective of an Africentric worldview. The importance of cultural humility, attuning to and honoring family culture is emphasized. Insights for implementation in primary care and other settings are provided. Healing‐centered engagement practices embedded in ERH‐C have the potential to move ERH work into the social justice arena. The ERH‐C is a family reflection model. Ideas for future directions for ERH‐C are discussed.
Early relational health – A promising approach for equitable systems change in pediatrics: A commentary
Authors: Thomas Kandace
Published: May 2022

Pediatric primary care plays a critical role in supporting the healthy development of young children. Wisdom and research suggest that every developmental domain is shaped by the quality of close relationships, particularly the caregiver‐child relationship. Therefore, pediatric primary care has a unique opportunity to support and nurture early relationships using the Early Relational Health (ERH) framework and its applications Early Relational Health Screen, and Early Relational Health Conversations. ERH and its applications recognize years of innovation focused on the promotion of the wellbeing of caregiver‐child relationships, and children's long‐term development. Central to enhancing and elevating pediatric practice is intentional effort in using diversity‐informed, anti‐racist, equitable systems of care frameworks. This Commentary offers a call to action for pediatric primary care to create more equitable and inclusive practice via ERH. The call to action includes deepening self and institutional awareness; allocating resources for systems change, including infusing greater equity into departmental structures; and, building authentic relationships with patients, families, and communities. This will result in intentional systems change centered on equitable practice.
School Counselors' Experiences With Lockdown Drills: A Phenomenological Investigation
Authors: Goodman‐Scott Emily , Eckhoff Angela
Published: May 2022

Lockdown drills are used in pre‐K–12 public schools throughout the country; however, little research exists regarding their impact on students and school staff (Ilk, 2018). Because of school counselors' role in both prevention of and response to school gun violence (American Counseling Association, 2018), we used a phenomenological approach to investigate their experiences with lockdown drills (N = 26). Results included the following three themes: (a) school counselors' sense of duty to follow school protocol, (b) unintended emotional consequences related to lockdown drills, and (c) school counselors navigating complexities. Implications for school counselors and corresponding school procedures are discussed.
Depressive symptoms among people living with HIV in permanent supportive housing: Findings from a community‐based participatory study in Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Vorobyova Anna , Braley McKenzie S. , Burgess Heather , Grieve Sean , Lyndon Sharyle , Wesseling Tim , Parashar Surita
Published: May 2022

Permanent supportive housing (PSH) is an intervention addressing housing needs among marginally housed individuals. Little is known about whether and how PSH influences depressive symptoms among people living with HIV (PLHIV). This article shares results from a community‐based study that, in 2016–2017, interviewed 24 residents of a PSH facility designated for PLHIV in Vancouver, Canada. The themes of taking control; social connectedness; conviviality; and relationships and supports described how the PSH environment affected depressive symptoms among the residents.
Modulation of IKs channel–PIP2 interaction by PRMT1 plays a critical role in the control of cardiac repolarization
Authors: An Xue , Lee Jiwon , Kim Ga Hye , Kim Hyun‐Ji , Pyo Hyun‐Jeong , Kwon Ilmin , Cho Hana
Published: May 2022

Recent studies have shown that protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is highly expressed in the human heart, and loss of PRMT1 contributes to cardiac remodeling in the heart failure. However, the functional importance of PRMT1 in cardiac ion channels remains uncertain. The slow activating delayed rectifier K+ (IKs) channel is a cardiac K+ channel composed of KCNQ1 and KCNE1 subunits and is a new therapeutic target for treating lethal arrhythmias in many cardiac pathologies, especially heart failure. Here, we demonstrate that PRMT1 is a critical regulator of the IKs channel and cardiac rhythm. In the guinea pig ventricular myocytes, treatment with furamidine, a PRMT1‐specific inhibitor, prolonged the action potential duration (APD). We further show that this APD prolongation was attributable to IKs reduction. In HEK293T cells expressing human KCNQ1 and KCNE1, inhibiting PRMT1 via furamidine reduced IKs and concurrently decreased the arginine methylation of KCNQ1, a pore‐forming α‐subunit. Evidence presented here indicates that furamidine decreased IKs mainly by lowering the affinity of IKs channels for the membrane phospholipid, phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2), which is crucial for pore opening. Finally, applying exogenous PIP2 to cardiomyocytes prevented the furamidine‐induced IKs reduction and APD prolongation. Taken together, these results indicate that PRMT1 positively regulated IKs activity through channel–PIP2 interaction, thereby restricting excessive cardiac action potential.
TGFBR2 is a novel substrate and indirect transcription target of deubiquitylase USP9X in granulosa cells
Authors: Yang Liu , Wang Siqi , Pan Zengxiang , Du Xing , Li Qifa
Published: May 2022

The ubiquitin‐specific peptidase 9 X‐linked (USP9X) is one of the highly conserved members belonging to the ubiquitin‐specific proteases (USPs) family, which has been reported to control substrates‐mediated biological functions through deubiquitinating and stabilizing substrates. Here, we have found that TGFBR2, the type II receptor of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) signaling pathway, is a novel substrate and indirect transcription target of deubiquitylase USP9X in granulosa cells (GCs). Mechanically, USP9X positively influences the expression of TGFBR2 at different levels through two independent ways: (i) directly targets and deubiquitinates TGFBR2, which maintains the protein stability of TGFBR2 through avoiding degradation mediated by ubiquitin‐proteasome system; (ii) indirectly maintains TGFBR2 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression via SMAD4/miR‐143 axis. Specifically, SMAD4, another substrate of USP9X, acts as a transcription factor and suppresses miR‐143 which inhibits the mRNA level of TGFBR2 by directly binding to its 3′‐untranslated region. Functionally, the maintenance of TGFBR2 by USP9X activates the TGF‐β signaling pathway, which further represses GC apoptosis. Our study highlights a functional micro‐regulatory network composed of deubiquitinase (USP9X), small noncoding RNA (miR‐143) and the TGF‐β signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in the regulation of GC apoptosis and female fertility.
Severe electrolyte derangements from lysozymuria in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Pérez‐Pinzón Juliana , Olin Rebecca L. , Banerjee Rahul
Published: May 2022

Renal dysfunction in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) can be multifactorial. We present the case of a 72‐year‐old male with relapsed myelomonocytic AML who presented with transient acute kidney injury (AKI) and severe persistent electrolyte derangements. In the setting of nephrotic‐range proteinuria and electrolyte wasting without significant albuminuria or glucosuria, a diagnosis of lysozymuria was made. Lysozymuria is a rare paraneoplastic complication of AML and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia characterized by lysozyme. This represents the first case of lysozymuria presenting primarily with refractory electrolyte derangements rather than severe AKI. Lysozymuria portends a poor clinical prognosis even with aggressive management.
A subdomain model for armature reaction field and open‐circuit field prediction in consequent pole permanent magnet machines
Authors: Abbas Ahmed , Iqbal Atif
Published: May 2022

In this paper, the machine quantity, such as electromagnetic torque, self and mutual inductances, and electromotive force, is analytically calculated for non‐overlapping winding consequent pole slotted machine for open‐circuit field and armature reaction. The sub‐domain approach of (2‐D) analytical model is developed using Maxwell's equations and divide the problem into slots, slot‐openings, airgap and magnets region, the magnet flux‐density is calculated and analyzed for both permanent magnet (PM) and armature current reaction (AR) with radial magnetization pattern. The magnetization surface currents (MSCs) are considered at the borders of iron‐pole magnets and the value of MSCs is accurately computed. The result obtained using proposed model compared with that of FEM, (2‐D) analytical model required less computation time and achieve higher accuracy of AR and PM.
Projections of precipitation extremes based on bias‐corrected Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 models ensemble over southern Africa
Authors: Lim Kam Sian Kenny Thiam Choy , Hagan Daniel Fiifi Tawia , Ayugi Brian Odhiambo , Nooni Isaac Kwesi , Ullah Waheed , Babaousmail Hassen , Ongoma Victor
Published: May 2022

The increasing awareness of climate change requires accurate, reliable and timely information on possible precipitation (PRE) changes to build climate resilience. This study uses the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) data to examine the effectiveness of bias correction on simulated historical mean and extreme PRE, and investigates the projected changes in extreme PRE events over southern Africa (SAF). Quantile mapping on a gamma distribution bias correction method is applied to the historical and projected CMIP6 data, with the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC) PRE dataset as reference data. The projection analyses are conducted for the wet (December–March) and dry (May–October) seasons for two shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) scenarios: SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5. The results affirm that the bias correction significantly reduces (by more than 90%) the biases in the modelled mean and extreme PRE. The projected extreme PRE shows a general drying pattern over SAF. In the wet season, wet days (R1mm) are projected to decrease by 1 and 2 days by the end of the 21st century for SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5, respectively, while very heavy PRE days (R20mm) show a slight upward pattern over SAF, reaching 0.1 and 0.4 days for the two scenarios. In contrast, the dry season exhibits a more pronounced drying tendency, with a consistent decrease in R1mm of 2 and 0.1 days by 2100 for SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5, respectively. R20mm is projected to decrease by 4 and 0.2 days for SSP2‐4.5 and SSP5‐8.5, respectively. This implies that SAF is expected to get drier during the dry season while the PRE intensity during the wet season is projected to increase.
A computational model of force within the ligaments and tendons in progressive collapsing foot deformity
Authors: Malakoutikhah Hamed , Madenci Erdogan , Latt Leonard Daniel
Published: May 2022

Progressive collapsing foot deformity results from degeneration of the ligaments and posterior tibial tendon (PTT). Our understanding of the relationship between their failures remains incomplete. We sought to improve this understanding through computational modeling of the forces in these soft tissues. The impact of PTT and ligament failures on force changes in the remaining ligaments was investigated by quantifying ligament force changes during simulated ligament and tendon cutting in a validated finite element model of the foot. The ability of the PTT to restore foot alignment was also evaluated by increasing the PTT force in a foot with attenuated ligaments and comparing the alignment angles to the intact foot. We found that failure of any one of the ligaments led to overloading the remaining ligaments, except for the plantar naviculocuneiform, first plantar tarsometatarsal, and spring ligaments, where removing one led to unloading the other two. The combined attenuation of the plantar fascia, long plantar, short plantar, and spring ligaments significantly overloaded the deltoid and talocalcaneal ligaments. Isolated PTT rupture had no effect on foot alignment but did increase the force in the deltoid and spring ligaments. Moreover, increasing the force within the PTT to 30% of body weight was effective at restoring foot alignment during quiet stance, primarily through reducing hindfoot valgus and forefoot abduction as opposed to improving arch collapse. Our findings suggest that early intervention might be used to prevent the progression of deformity. Moreover, strengthening the PTT through therapeutic exercise might improve its ability to restore foot alignment.
Nerve growth factor receptors in equine synovial membranes vary with osteoarthritic disease severity
Authors: Kendall Anna , Ekman Stina , Skiöldebrand Eva
Published: May 2022

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophin that has been implicated in pain signaling, apoptosis, inflammation and proliferation. The resultant effects depend on interaction with two different receptors; tyrosine kinase A (TrkA) and p75NTR. NGF increases in synovial fluid from osteoarthritic joints, and monoclonal antibody therapy is trialed to treat osteoarthritis (OA)‐related pain. Investigation of the complex and somewhat contradictory signaling pathways of NGF is conducted in neural research, but has not followed through to orthopaedic studies. The objectives of this study were to compare the expression of NGF receptors and the downstream regulator BAX in synovial membranes from joints in various stages of OA. The horse was used as a model. Synovial membranes were harvested from five healthy horses postmortem and from clinical cases with spontaneous OA undergoing arthroscopic surgery for lameness. Four horses with synovitis without gross cartilage changes, four horses with synovitis and cartilage damage, and four horses with synovitis and intracarpal fractures were included. Samples were investigated by immunohistochemistry and results showed that nuclear staining of TrkA, p75NTR and BAX increases in OA‐associated synovitis. TrkA expression increased in early disease stages whereas increases in p75NTR were most prominent in later disease stages with cartilage damage and fibrosis. Clinical significance: Suppression of NGF may result in varied effects depending on different stages of the osteoarthritic disease process.
A graphene pH sensor fabrication process for a nanotechnology laboratory course
Authors: Suh Yeonjoon , Wen Chengyu , Shah Shrey , Watson George Patrick
Published: May 2022

A laboratory course experiment is described that combines traditional semiconductor fabrication techniques with the application of a nanotechnology‐relevant material, graphene. Sensor devices made with graphene are integrated with a microfluidic device in order to introduce students to new applications of this technology in biology and medicine. The fabrication and test process for a pH sensor is used as a tangible example, exhibiting a changing resistance across graphene strips immersed in different pH buffer solutions. The processing and test equipment required is available in many Si device fabrication educational laboratories.
The effect of histologic grade on neoadjuvant treatment outcomes in esophageal cancer
Authors: Pointer David T. , McDonald Jordan A. , Naffouje Samer A. , Mehta Rutika , Fleming Jason B. , Fontaine Jacques P. , Lauwers Gregory Y. , Frakes Jessica M. , Hoffe Sarah E. , Pimiento Jose M.
Published: May 2022

Background and Objectives

The gold standard for locoregional esophageal cancer (LEC) treatment includes preoperative chemoradiation and surgical resection, with possible perioperative or adjuvant systemic therapy. With few data associating histologic grade and prognosis in LEC patients receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by resection, we seek to evaluate this association.

Methods

Our institutional esophagectomy database between 1999 and 2019 was queried, selecting esophageal adenocarcinoma patients who completed neoadjuvant therapy (NAT), followed by esophagectomy. Propensity‐score matching of low‐ and high‐histologic grade groups was performed to assess survival metrics using initial clinical grade (cG) and final pathologic grade (pG). We performed a multivariable logistic regression to study predictors of pathologic complete response as a secondary objective.

Results

A total of 518 patients met the inclusion criteria. Kaplan–Meier analysis of the matched dataset showed no difference in initial or 5‐year recurrence‐free survival or overall survival (OS) between cG1 and cG2 versus cG3 based on original grade. When matched according to pG, cG1–2 had improved median survival parameters compared to cG3, with 5‐year OS for cG1–2 of 45% versus 27% (p = 0.001). Higher pG, pathologic N stage, and poor response to NAT are predictors of poor survival.

Conclusion

Patients with post‐NAT pG1–2 demonstrated improved survival. Integrating histologic grade into postneoadjuvant staging may be warranted.
Lymphadenectomy and margin‐negative resection for biliary tract cancer surgery in the United States—Differential technical performance by approach
Authors: Kim Bradford J. , Newhook Timothy E. , Tzeng Ching‐Wei D. , Ikoma Naruhiko , Chiang Yi‐Ju , Chun Yun Shin , Vauthey Jean‐Nicolas , Tran Cao Hop S.
Published: May 2022

Background

As minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches to biliary tract cancers become more commonplace, understanding the adequacy of their oncologic performance is key.

Methods

The National Cancer Database 2010–2016 was queried for patients who underwent hepatectomy for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHC) and T1b or more advanced gallbladder cancer (GBC). Patients were grouped by approach: open (OA), laparoscopic (LA), and robotic (RA). Margin status, rate of lymph node (LN) dissection, and yield of LN dissection were evaluated.

Results

This cohort of 8612 patients, including 4034 patients with IHC (OA: 3281, LA: 675, RA: 78) and 4578 patients with GBC (OA: 1893, LA: 2588, RA: 97), MIS was used 40% of the time. R0 resection was achieved in 82% OA, 84% LA, and 91% RA, p = 0.004. Rate of LN dissection was 53% (OA: 60%, LA: 42%, RA: 51%, p < 0.001). Among patients who underwent lymphadenectomy, 6 + LN were retrieved less commonly with a LA (OA: 27%, LA: 20%, and RA: 30%, p < 0.001). High‐volume MIS hepatectomy centers were more likely to perform a lymphadenectomy (odds ratio [OR]: 1.41) and a sampling of 6 + LN (OR: 1.18).

Conclusion

Regardless of approach, lymphadenectomy is underperformed nationwide for biliary tract tumors, particularly with LA. As the use of MIS grows for the treatment of biliary tract cancers, scrutiny of oncologic outcomes is required.
Genomic variation associated with carcinoma showing thymus‐like elements (CASTLE) in thyroid gland
Authors: Jiang Lin , Zheng Wei‐Hui , Chen Chao
Published: May 2022

Background

Carcinoma showing thymus‐like elements (CASTLE) is a rare kind of malignant tumor of thyroid gland. The genetic mutation characteristics of CASTLE are not clear.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed seven patients diagnosed as CASTLE tumor in our hospital, and performed whole exome sequencing (WES) in five cases to analyze the genomic variation of CASTLE in thyroid gland.

Results

The diagnosis of CASTLE was confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical results. Immunohistochemical staining showed that cell membranes of tumor samples in all cases were moderately to strongly positive for CD5 and CD117. WES presented a large number of single nucleotide variants (SNVs), insertions and deletions (InDel), and copy number variations (CNVs). By comparing with the TCGA database, we found novel mutations in significantly mutated genes such as FBXL16, PAQR7, LEFTY1, UBA52, and FLNA, as well as in potential disease‐related driver genes such as MLLT10, FLNA, CYLD, HLA‐B, KMT2D, SFPQ, MUC16, EEF2, and KMT2C.

Conclusions

CASTLE tumors contain unique tumor driver gene mutations. The information about mutations in several novel genes obtained in this study may contribute to unraveling the molecular mechanisms responsible for the emergence of thyroid CASTLE tumors and help formulating possible in‐roads for treatment.
Angiogenic Hydrogels to Accelerate Early Wound Healing
Authors: Kim KaKyung , Siddiqui Zain , Acevedo‐Jake Amanda M. , Roy Abhishek , Choudhury Marwa , Grasman Jonathan , Kumar Vivek
Published: May 2022

Diabetes mellitus affects an increasing proportion of the population, and is projected to double by 2060. Comorbidities contribute to an interrupted healing process which is delayed, prolonged, and associated with increased susceptibility to infection and unresolved inflammation. This leads to chronic nonhealing wounds and potential amputation. Here, the use of a bioactive angiogenic peptide‐based hydrogel, SLan, is examined to improve early wound healing in diabetic rats, and its performance is compared to clinically utilized biosynthetic peptide‐based materials such as Puramatrix. Streptozotocin‐treated diabetic rats underwent 8 mm biopsy wounding in their dorsum. Wounds are treated with either Low (1 w%) SLan, High (4 w%) SLan, phosphate buffered saline (PBS), Puramatrix, or K2 (an unfunctionalized nonbioactive control sequentially similar to SLan), covered with Tegaderm, and monitored on for a month; animals are sacrificed for histomorphic analyses and immunostaining. Pharmacokinetic analysis showing no trafficking of peptides from the wound into the circulation. SLan groups show similar wound contraction as control groups (Puramatrix, PBS, and K2), however, showing marked improvement in healing in earlier time points, including increased deposition of new mature blood vessels. Altogether the results suggest this material can be used to “jumpstart” the diabetic wound healing process.
Bioinspired Rubber Composites with Mechanical Robustness, Recyclability, and Shape Memory Properties
Authors: Zhang Jihua , Qin Junhong , Feng Huadong , Wang Hao , Zao Weitao , Yang Yuan , Liang Zi
Published: May 2022

Vitrimers display great potential for application in various industries thanks to their high strength, reprocessability, and multi‐functions. However, it is still quite a challenge to fabricate rubber vitrimers as the facile designs in reversible crosslinking networks are always critical. Herein, inspired by mussel byssus, heterogeneous coordination networks are constructed in nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) to develop novel vitrimeric structures composed of metal‐phenolic network (MPN) granules with dense zinc ions (Zn2+)–tea polyphenol (TP) bonds and a soft matrix containing few Zn2+cyano group (CN) coordination bonds. The resulting NBR composites show tunable reinforcement simply by altering the amount of Zn2+ ions. The reversibility of complexations endows the composites with good plasticity, recyclability, and stable shape memory properties. Plasticity at high temperatures changes vitrimeric networks, producing larger and spindle‐like MPN granules owing to their secondary self‐assembly. Despite these variations, the vitrimeric composites still maintain engineering plasticity‐based shape memory properties at a relatively large strain. Therefore, it is believed that the biomimetic strategies can well fabricate rubber composites with high strength, reprocessable, and shape‐memory performance.
How a blurry background in product presentation influences product size perception
Authors: Meng Lu (Monroe) , Kou Sining , Duan Shen , Jiang Yushi , Lü Kevin
Published: May 2022

This study demonstrates a visual phenomenon in online product presentation: product size perception is influenced by the depth of field of the presentation image. Depth of field refers to how blurry or sharp the background around the focused subject is a shallow depth‐of‐field image result in a clear focused subject and a blurry background, while in a deep depth‐of‐field image, both the subject and the background are clear. One eye‐tracking study, three behavioral experiments, and one field study show that a shallow (vs. deep) depth‐of‐field product presentation (i.e., a clear product with a blurry background) increases consumers' product size perceptions. This effect is mediated by the greater attention allocated to the product and is moderated by product familiarity. Specifically, when product familiarity is low, consumer attention mediates the significant effect of depth of field on product size perception. However, when product familiarity is high, the effects of depth of field and consumer attention decrease. The current research contributes to the previous research on product presentation and product size perception by investigating the effect of a novel factor, the depth of field, on consumers' estimations of product size. Overall, the findings encourage online retailers to carefully adapt the depth of field technique in their product presentation according to their objectives (e.g., attract consumers' interest vs. provide accurate information) and consumers' familiarity with their products.
Lie symmetries and exact solutions for a fourth‐order nonlinear diffusion equation
Authors: Márquez Almudena del Pilar , Garrido Tamara María , Recio Elena , de la Rosa Rafael
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we consider a fourth‐order nonlinear diffusion partial differential equation, depending on two arbitrary functions. First, we perform an analysis of the symmetry reductions for this parabolic partial differential equation by applying the Lie symmetry method. The invariance property of a partial differential equation under a Lie group of transformations yields the infinitesimal generators. By using this invariance condition, we present a complete classification of the Lie point symmetries for the different forms of the functions that the partial differential equation involves. Afterwards, the optimal systems of one‐dimensional subalgebras for each maximal Lie algebra are determined, by computing previously the commutation relations, with the Lie bracket operator, and the adjoint representation. Next, the reductions to ordinary differential equations are derived from the optimal systems of one‐dimensional subalgebras. Furthermore, we study travelling wave reductions depending on the form of the two arbitrary functions of the original equation. Some travelling wave solutions are obtained, such as solitons, kinks and periodic waves.
Initial experience using the Axonics sacral neuromodulation system in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Chen Annie , Kapur Anjali , Mossack Spencer , Weissbart Steven J. , Kim Jason M.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is third‐line therapy approved for urge urinary incontinence (UUI) and urgency, and nonobstructive urinary retention. Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients often suffer from neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). The utility of SNM in the MS population is limited by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) incompatibility as routine MRIs to evaluate for disease progression are required. The Axonics System is the first Food and Drug Administration‐approved SNM device that is 1.5/3 T full‐body MRI‐conditionally safe. This study seeks to investigate the symptomatic improvement in MS patients after implantation of the Axonics System.

Methods

All MS patients who elected for Axonics SNM from December 2019 to January 2021 were included. Demographics and scores were queried for urogenital distress inventory (UDI‐6), incontinence impact questionnaire (IIQ‐7), and global response assessment (GRA).

Results

Fifteen MS patients with UUI were included. The time to follow‐up averaged 121 days. On UDI‐6, 12 patients reported improvement, 1 worsening, and 2 no change. Average UDI‐6 scores before and after implantation were 56.6 and 25.2 (p < 0.0001). Improvements were significant for all questions under stress urinary incontinence, UUI, and voiding difficulty subcategories. On IIQ‐7, 14 patients reported improvement and 1 reported worsening. Average IIQ‐7 scores before and after implantation were 59.0 and 22.2 (p < 0.001). Improvements were significant for travel, social, and emotional subcategories, but not for physical activity. The average GRA score was 6 (“moderately improved”).

Conclusion

The majority of MS patients reported significant initial improvement in UUI and associated quality of life measures on validated questionnaires after implantation of the Axonics System. Future studies are needed to determine the long‐term outcomes and durability of this MRI full‐body conditionally‐safe system.
Characteristics of immersive citizen science experiences that drive conservation engagement
Authors: Day Georgia , Fuller Richard A. , Nichols Cassandra , Dean Angela J.
Published: May 2022

The biodiversity crisis poses a real and present global threat to humanity. The acceleration of species and ecosystem decline coupled with climate change suggests that as it stands, nature cannot absorb the pressure humanity is placing on the planet. Bold new approaches to biodiversity conservation are needed.

Promoting an engaged community is an important part of achieving conservation outcomes. Research shows that citizen science has the potential to elicit conservation engagement. However, research has not specifically explored how intensive citizen science expedition programs contribute to change.

Here we use transformative learning theory as a tool to investigate how participation in citizen science programs influences conservation engagement. We analysed evaluation surveys of Earthwatch Institute citizen science participants (N = 608) and conducted in‐depth interviews (N = 11), to examine the links between citizen science experiences and engagement outcomes.

We discovered that while nature‐based components of citizen science programs attract participants and create a salient environment for transformation, these are not objectively associated with engagement outcomes. Strengthened awareness was associated with learning, social interactions and cultural experiences, whereas intentions to engage in conservation action was only influenced by experiencing a sense of contribution.

Rather than focusing only on learning and nature experiences, our results suggest that the elements of citizen science programs which support social change may require allowing participants to develop a sense of contribution amid an interactive social environment.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Precisely nanostructured HfO2 rear passivation layers for ultra‐thin Cu(In,Ga)Se2
Authors: Anacleto Pedro , Hägglund Carl , Chen Wei‐Chao , Kovačič Milan , Krč Janez , Edoff Marika , Sadewasser Sascha
Published: May 2022

The quest for material‐efficient Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells encourages the development of ultra‐thin absorbers. Their use reduces material consumption and energy usage during production by increasing the throughput. Thereby, both the bill of materials as well as the energy and capital costs are reduced. However, because thin absorbers are prone to increase back contact recombination, back surface passivation schemes are necessary to reach a similar or higher conversion efficiency than for absorbers with conventional thickness. Here, we investigate nanostructured hafnium oxide (HfO2) rear passivation layers for ultra‐thin CIGS solar cells. We fabricate regular arrays of point contacts with 200 nm diameter through HfO2 layers with thicknesses between 7 and 40 nm using electron beam lithography and reactive ion etching. The current–voltage curves of solar cells with a 500 nm thick CIGS absorber layer and the nanostructured passivation layer show improved performance concerning Voc and Jsc compared to non‐passivated reference devices. Furthermore, external quantum efficiency and optical reflection confirm an effective passivation behavior, with an average efficiency increase of up to 1.2% for the cells with the 40 nm thick HfO2 layer. In addition, simulation work shows that even 40 nm thick HfO2 passivation layers have only a minimal effect on the optical properties of ultra‐thin CIGS solar cells, and hence, the photocurrent increase verified experimentally stems from electrical improvements caused by the HfO2 layer passivation effect. We also investigate the impact of ultra‐thin (0.3, 0.6, 1.3, and 2.5 nm) non‐patterned HfO2 passivation layers on the same type of solar cells. However, these results showed no improvement in solar cell performance, despite an increase in the current density with layer thickness.
Research to practice to research: Examining who, how, what, when, and where for early literacy interventions within tiered frameworks
Authors: Stuckey Adrienne , Albritton Kizzy , Cruz Kenia
Published: May 2022

Tiered frameworks, such as Response to Intervention (RtI), have become a primary approach within K‐12 settings for identifying children who may need additional intervention. Recent literature suggests RtI is also occurring in many early childhood programs, and early literacy is often an area of focus. While there are data indicating improved outcomes for children who received early literacy intervention, we had many unanswered questions regarding the characteristics of early literacy interventions implemented with young children within RtI frameworks. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of the literature to understand who the studies were about, how the researchers identified children in need of higher tiers of support, what content was emphasized through which intervention methods, and where and when the interventions occurred. Our findings indicate that intervention studies overwhelmingly occurred with young children from racially and ethnically minoritized communities and economically marginalized backgrounds. Interventions focused on early literacy skill areas related to later reading achievement and were often delivered by members of research teams. We discuss implications for practitioners striving to implement research‐based interventions in their classrooms. We also discuss implications for researchers seeking to design and implement early literacy intervention studies with practical applicability.
Computational systems approach towards phosphoproteomics and their downstream regulation
Authors: Xiao Di , Chen Carissa , Yang Pengyi
Published: May 2022

Protein phosphorylation plays an essential role in modulating cell signalling and its downstream transcriptional and translational regulations. Until recently, protein phosphorylation has been studied mostly using low‐throughput biochemical assays. The advancement of mass spectrometry (MS)‐based phosphoproteomics transformed the field by enabling measurement of proteome‐wide phosphorylation events, where tens of thousands of phosphosites are routinely identified and quantified in an experiment. This has brought a significant challenge in analysing large‐scale phosphoproteomic data, making computational methods and systems approaches integral parts of phosphoproteomics. Previous works have primarily focused on reviewing the experimental techniques in MS‐based phosphoproteomics, yet a systematic survey of the computational landscape in this field is still missing. Here, we review computational methods and tools, and systems approaches that have been developed for phosphoproteomics data analysis. We categorise them into four aspects including data processing, functional analysis, phosphoproteome annotation and their integration with other omics, and in each aspect, we discuss the key methods and example studies. Lastly, we highlight some of the potential research directions on which future work would make a significant contribution to this fast‐growing field. We hope this review provides a useful snapshot of the field of computational systems phosphoproteomics and stimulates new research that drives future development.
Respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants of less than 32 weeks: What difference does giving 100 or 200 mg/kg of exogenous surfactant make?
Authors: Lanciotti Lucia , Correani Alessio , Pasqualini Matteo , Antognoli Luca , Dell'Orto Valentina G. , Giorgetti Chiara , Colombo Sara , Palazzi Maria L. , Rondina Clementina , Burattini Ilaria , Carnielli Virgilio P.
Published: May 2022

Background

Surfactant dosing and effective delivery could affect continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP)‐failure. Nevertheless, information on exogenous surfactant dosing with current administration methods is limited.

Objective

To describe the effect of 100 or 200 mg/kg of surfactant as first‐line treatment of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants of less than 32 weeks gestation.

Study Design

A retrospective single‐center cohort study comparing two epochs, before and after switching from 100 to 200 mg/kg surfactant therapy.

Results

Six hundred and fifty‐eight of the 1615 infants of less than 32 weeks were treated with surfactant: 282 received 100 mg/kg (S‐100) and 376 received 200 mg/kg (S‐200). There were no differences between S‐100 and S‐200 in perinatal data including prenatal corticosteroids, medication use, age at first surfactant administration and respiratory severity before surfactant.

The S‐200 vs. S‐100 had fewer retreatments (17.0% vs. 47.2%, p < 0.001) and a shorter duration of oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation (315 vs. 339 h, p = 0.018; 37 vs. 118 h, p = 0.000, respectively). There was no difference in postnatal corticosteroid use (S‐200 10.0% vs. S‐100 11.0%, p = 0.361). Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) was significantly lower in S‐200 vs. S‐100 when comparing either the 4 and 6‐year periods before and after the dose switch (29.4% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.003, and 18.7% vs. 27.3%, p = 0.024, respectively)

Conclusions

The switch from 100 to 200 mg/kg was associated with a marked reduction in the need for surfactant redosing, respiratory support, and BPD. This information could be important when designing a study in the modern era of less invasive administration as surfactant dosing and its effective delivery may affect the outcome.