bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does individual educational attainment affect educational homogamy?—Evidence from CGSS
Authors: Huo Congjia , Chen Lingming
Published: July 2022

Family is the basic unit that constitutes social relations, and marriage‐matching determines the development trajectory of a household. Education has become one of the most important ingredients of marriage in modern society, and the proportion of homogamy is increasing day by day. This article employs the data from the Chinese General Social Survey to research the mechanism of educational attainment on the educational homogamy. To eliminate the effect of endogeneity, we use the Probit model and instrumental variables for testing. The empirical results indicate that social members with higher educational backgrounds are more likely to choose educational homogamy. After controlling for other variables, social members and female members with lower ages are more likely to choose spouses with similar educational backgrounds.
Compatibility and function of human induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes on an electrospun nanofibrous scaffold, generated from an ionomeric polyurethane composite
Authors: Chen Yizhou , Chan Jennifer P. Y. , Wu Jun , Li Ren‐Ke , Santerre J. Paul
Published: July 2022

Synthetic scaffolds are needed for generating organized neo‐myocardium constructs to promote functional tissue repair. This study investigated the biocompatibility of an elastomeric electrospun degradable polar/hydrophobic/ionic polyurethane (D‐PHI) composite scaffold with human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CMs). The composite material was electrospun to generate scaffolds, with nanofibres oriented in aligned or random directions. These features enabled the authors to evaluate the effect of characteristic elements which mimic that of the native extracellular matrix (alignment, chemical heterogeneity, and fiber topography) on hiPSC‐CMs activity. The functional nature of the hiPSC‐CM cultured on gelatin and Matrigel‐coated scaffolds were assessed, investigating the influence of protein interactions with the synthetic substrate on subsequent cell phenotype. After 7 days of culture, high hiPSC‐CM viability was observed on the scaffolds. The cells on the aligned scaffold were elongated and demonstrated aligned sarcomeres that oriented parallel to the direction of the fibers, while the cells on random scaffolds and a tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) control did not exhibit such an organized morphology. The hiPSC‐CMs cultured on the scaffolds and TCPS expressed similar levels of cardiac troponin‐T, but there was a higher expression of ventricular myosin light chain‐2 on the D‐PHI composite scaffolds versus TCPS, indicating a higher proportion of hiPSC‐CM exhibiting a ventricular cardiomyocyte like phenotype. Within 7 days, the hiPSC‐CMs on aligned scaffolds and TCPS beat synchronously and had similar conductive velocities. These preliminary results show that aligned D‐PHI elastomeric scaffolds allow hiPSC‐CMs to demonstrate important cardiomyocytes characteristics, critical to enabling their future potential use for cardiac tissue regeneration.
Comparative analysis on characteristics of two activated partial thromboplastin time reagents
Authors: Yasui Yutaro , Ishii Toshiaki , Tatebe Junko , Morita Toshisuke
Published: July 2022

Background

For the lack of standardized activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), it has been pointed out that there are differences in values among several reagents. Recently, we have performed a parallel measurement on two reagents, Thrombocheck APTT‐SLA and Coagpia APTT‐n, and resulted with some dissociated samples. The purpose of this study is to clarify the possible factors related to ΔAPTT, the difference in measured values between the two reagents.

Materials and Methods

In order to clarify the factors related to ΔAPTT, multiple regression analysis was performed on 8324 samples, using clinical laboratory data of all test items requested simultaneously with APTT. To confirm the items extracted from the multiple regression analysis, the target substance was spiked to pooled plasma and measured with two APTT reagents. Additionally, by spiking phospholipids, the effect on APTT measurement system was assessed.

Result

Multiple regression analysis detected albumin–globulin ratio (AGR), C‐reactive protein (CRP), hematocrit, and prothrombin time as factors related to ΔAPTT (p < 0.001). Results revealed no significant differences when albumin was added to change the AGR. Whereas with the addition of CRP, prolongation of APTT was observed in Coagpia APTT‐n compared to Thrombocheck APTT‐SLA (p < 0.001). This prolongation was canceled by the addition of phospholipids, suggesting the interaction of CRP with phospholipids leads to the pseudo‐prolongation.

Conclusion

It is considered that the pseudo‐prolongation of APTT is triggered by the interaction of CRP on the phospholipid in Coagpia APTT‐n, which contributed to the APTT dissociation.
Sphingomyelinase activity promotes atrophy and attenuates force in human muscle fibres and is elevated in heart failure patients
Authors: Olsson Karl , Cheng Arthur J. , Al‐Ameri Mamdoh , Tardif Nicolas , Melin Michael , Rooyackers Olav , Lanner Johanna T. , Westerblad Håkan , Gustafsson Thomas , Bruton Joseph D. , Rullman Eric
Published: July 2022

Background

Activation of sphingomyelinase (SMase) as a result of a general inflammatory response has been implicated as a mechanism underlying disease‐related loss of skeletal muscle mass and function in several clinical conditions including heart failure. Here, for the first time, we characterize the effects of SMase activity on human muscle fibre contractile function and assess skeletal muscle SMase activity in heart failure patients.

Methods

The effects of SMase on force production and intracellular Ca2+ handling were investigated in single intact human muscle fibres. Additional mechanistic studies were performed in single mouse toe muscle fibres. RNA sequencing was performed in human muscle bundles exposed to SMase. Intramuscular SMase activity was measured from heart failure patients (n = 61, age 69 ± 0.8 years, NYHA III‐IV, ejection fraction 25 ± 1.0%, peak VO2 14.4 ± 0.6 mL × kg × min) and healthy age‐matched control subjects (n = 10, age 71 ± 2.2 years, ejection fraction 60 ± 1.2%, peak VO2 25.8 ± 1.1 mL × kg × min). SMase activity was related to circulatory factors known to be associated with progression and disease severity in heart failure.

Results

Sphingomyelinase reduced muscle fibre force production (−30%, P < 0.05) by impairing sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release (P < 0.05) and reducing myofibrillar Ca2+ sensitivity. In human muscle bundles exposed to SMase, RNA sequencing analysis revealed 180 and 291 genes as up‐regulated and down‐regulated, respectively, at a FDR of 1%. Gene‐set enrichment analysis identified ‘proteasome degradation’ as an up‐regulated pathway (average fold‐change 1.1, P = 0.008), while the pathway ‘cytoplasmic ribosomal proteins’ (average fold‐change 0.8, P < 0.0001) and factors involving proliferation of muscle cells (average fold‐change 0.8, P = 0.0002) where identified as down‐regulated. Intramuscular SMase activity was ~20% higher (P < 0.05) in human heart failure patients than in age‐matched healthy controls and was positively correlated with markers of disease severity and progression, and with several circulating inflammatory proteins, including TNF‐receptor 1 and 2. In a longitudinal cohort of heart failure patients (n = 6, mean follow‐up time 2.5 ± 0.2 years), SMase activity was demonstrated to increase by 30% (P < 0.05) with duration of disease.

Conclusions

The present findings implicate activation of skeletal muscle SMase as a mechanism underlying human heart failure‐related loss of muscle mass and function. Moreover, our findings strengthen the idea that SMase activation may underpin disease‐related loss of muscle mass and function in other clinical conditions, acting as a common patophysiological mechanism for the myopathy often reported in diseases associated with a systemic inflammatory response.
Incidence of hip fracture in underweight individuals: a nationwide population‐based cohort study in Korea
Authors: Han Sangsoo , Park Jiwon , Jang Hae‐Dong , Nah Sangun , Boo Joonhyeok , Han Kyungdo , Hong Jae‐Young
Published: July 2022

Background

Hip fracture is a major public health problem worldwide and being underweight is a risk factor for fractures. Few studies have investigated the association between being underweight and hip fracture in the general population. The present study investigated the incidence of hip fracture in a large population cohort based on detailed information about the degree of underweight.

Methods

A nationwide retrospective cohort study of adults ≥40 years of age included 962,533 subjects who were not overweight or obese in 2009. The incidence and risk of hip fracture occurring between 2010 and 2018 was assessed based on the degree of underweight. Based on body mass index (BMI), the study population was categorized into normal (18.50–22.99 kg/m2), mild (17.00–18.49 kg/m2), moderate (16.00–16.99 kg/m2), and severe underweight (<16.00 kg/m2) groups. Cox proportional hazards analyses were performed to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) for the hip fracture based on the degree of underweight in reference to the normal weight.

Results

Compared with subjects who were normal weight, those who were classified as mild underweight (1.03/1000 person‐years (PY) increase in incidence rate (IR); adjusted HR (aHR) 1.61; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.48–1.76), moderate underweight (2.04/1000 PY increase in IR; aHR 1.85; 95% CI 1.65–2.08), or severe underweight (4.58/1000 PY increase in IR; aHR 2.33; 95% CI 2.03–2.66) were at significantly increased risk of hip fracture.

Conclusions

The severity of underweight was significantly associated with risk of hip fracture. The subdivision of underweight helps to estimate fracture risk more accurately.
Novel matrix strategies for improved ionization and spatial resolution using IR‐MALDESI mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Kibbe Russell R. , Mellinger Allyson L. , Muddiman David C.
Published: July 2022

In mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) applications of infrared matrix‐assisted laser desorption electrospray ionization (IR‐MALDESI), an exogenous ice layer is the gold standard for an energy‐absorbing matrix. However, the formation of the ice matrix requires additional time and instrument hardware, so glycerol was investigated herein as an alternative to the ice matrix to potentially improve spatial resolution and ionization, while decreasing experiment time. Glycerol solutions of varying concentrations were sprayed over top of rat liver tissue sections for analysis by IR‐MALDESI and compared to the typical ice matrix condition. Additionally, we tested if combining the ice matrix and glycerol matrix would further improve analyses. Matrix conditions were evaluated by comparing ion abundance of six lipid species, the laser ablation spot diameter, and number of METASPACE annotations. The ion abundances were also normalized to the volume of tissue ablated to correct for lower abundance values due to less ablated tissue. It was observed that utilizing a 50% glycerol matrix without ice provides improved spatial resolution with lipid abundances and annotations comparable to the ice matrix standard, while decreasing the time required to complete an IR‐MALDESI tissue imaging experiment.
Raman activity of the longitudinal optical phonons of the LiNbO3 crystal: Experimental determination and quantum mechanical simulation
Authors: A. Nogueira Bernardo , Rérat Michel , Fausto Rui , Castiglioni Chiara , Dovesi Roberto
Published: July 2022

In this study, the
and the two equivalent
/
polarized Raman spectra of a LiNbO3 single crystal have been recorded and used as a benchmark test for the density functional theory (DFT) calculation of the longitudinal modes and of their Raman activity. The theoretical approach, based on periodic boundary conditions and a linear combination of atomic orbitals (LCAO), provides excellent predictions of phonon wavenumbers and relative bands intensities for both A1 and E Longitudinal Optical (LO) modes and complements a previous paper limited to the study of Transverse Optical (TO) modes. Overall, the present investigation demonstrates that the LCAO approach, as implemented in the CRYSTAL software, gives results of similar accuracy for the TO and the LO phonons features. By means of a band deconvolution scheme applied to the experimental spectra, we present, for the first time, a quantitative comparison between experimental and theoretically predicted polarized Raman band intensities of LiNbO3 LO modes. This analysis highlights the role of the suitable determination of the static and high‐frequency dielectric matrices that are needed for the prediction of the TO/LO frequency split but also the first nonlinear electric susceptibility tensor for an accurate description of the Raman intensity pattern.
Tyrosinase covalently immobilized on carboxyl functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for fishing of the enzyme's ligands from Prunellae Spica
Authors: Zhao Yan , Yuan Li , Bai Xiao‐Lin , Jiang Xin‐Xin , Zhang Yi , Fang Qiong , Zhang Qin , Liao Xun
Published: July 2022

In this study, tyrosinase was immobilized on carboxyl functionalized silica‐coated magnetic nanoparticles for the first time to be used for fishing of tyrosinase's ligands present in complex plant extract. The immobilized tyrosinase was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermo‐gravimetric analyzer, and atomic force microscopy. The reusability and thermostability of the immobilized tyrosinase were found significantly superior to its free counterpart. Two tyrosinase's ligands, that is, caffeic acid (1) and rosmarinic acid (2), were fished out from extract of the traditional Chinese medicine Prunellae Spica by the immobilized tyrosinase. Compound 1 was found to be an activator of the enzyme with the half maximal effective concentration value of 0.27 ± 0.06 mM, while compound 2 was an inhibitor with the half maximal inhibitory concentration value of 0.14 ± 0.03 mM. Taking advantage of the convenience of magnetic separation and specific extraction ability of ligand fishing, the proposed method exhibited great potential for screening of bioactive compounds from complex matrices.
Patients of stage I oral cancer with pathologically low‐risk feature managed by primary tumor resection alone: Impact of depth of invasion and a nomogram analysis
Authors: Tsai Ming‐Hsien , Huang Hui‐Shan , Chuang Hui‐Ching , Lin Yu‐Tsai , Yang Kun‐Lin , Lu Hui , Chien Chih‐Yen
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the importance of depth of invasion (DOI) in patients with pathologically low‐risk feature stage I oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) managed by primary tumor resection alone.

Methods

Patients with stage I OSCC, at pathologically low risk, underwent primary tumor resection without neck dissection were enrolled retrospectively between 2007 and 2015. Low risk was defined as the absence of positive or close margins, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, worst pattern of invasion‐5, and poor differentiation in histologic grade. The primary endpoints included overall survival (OS), cancer specific survival (CSS), local recurrence free survival (LRFS), and regional recurrence free survival (RRFS). A nomogram based on the DOI was established for predicting RRFS.

Results

A total of 198 patients were enrolled in this study. DOI was the only prognosticator to achieve statistical significance in all primary endpoints according to univariate analysis. Patients with DOI <3 mm tumor showed better five‐year OS, CSS, LRFS, and RRFS than those with DOI ≥3 mm tumor. The concordance index of the nomogram model without DOI was 0.684, which could increase to 0.733 when DOI was included in the calculation.

Conclusion

Patients with pathologically low‐risk stage I OSCC correlate with a higher chance in occult neck metastasis if increasing DOI (≥3 mm) is noticed. Indeed, the chance of occult neck metastasis is significantly higher in this group (14% vs. 2%) than in those with DOI <3 mm. Elective neck dissection is advised if DOI is ≥3 mm to achieve better clinical outcomes.

Level of Evidence

4.
Highly Integrated Dual‐Modality Microwave Frequency Identification System
Authors: Yao Yuhan , Zhao Yuhe , Wei Yanxian , Zhou Feng , Chen Daigao , Zhang Yuguang , Xiao Xi , Li Ming , Dong Jianji , Yu Shaohua , Zhang Xinliang
Published: July 2022

Photonic‐assisted microwave frequency identification systems have been extensively explored and widely applied for civil and defense applications. Full integration of this system is a promising candidate in attempts to meet the requirements of reduction in size, weight, and power. Although many integrated photonic chips have been reported in different technologies, none has monolithically integrated all the main active and passive optoelectronic components. Furthermore, previous approaches could identify either a single frequency signal instantaneously or multiple frequency signals statistically, but not both, hindering the practical applications. Here, a highly integrated dual‐modality microwave frequency identification system on a single chip is reported. All critical components including a modulator, a sweeping‐frequency filter, a frequency‐selected filter, an amplitude comparison function, and parallel photodetectors, are monolithically integrated on the silicon‐on‐insulator platform. Thanks to the dual‐modality scheme, the chip is able to identify different types of microwave signals, including single‐frequency, multiple‐frequency, chirped, and frequency‐hopping microwave signals, as well as discriminate instantaneous frequency variation among the frequency‐modulated signals. This demonstration exhibits a highly integrated solution and fully functional microwave frequency identification, which can meet the requirements in reduction of size, weight, and power for future advanced microwave photonic processor.
Accounting for Temperature Effects When Predicting Molecular Weight and Composition Distribution for Gas‐Phase Polyethylene Produced using a Multisite Catalyst
Authors: Gibson Lauren A. , Aiello Jennifer P. , Jiang Yan , Boller Timothy , McAuley Kimberley B.
Published: July 2022

A dynamic model is developed for gas‐phase ethylene/1‐hexene polymerization with a three‐site hafnocene catalyst. The model accurately predicts molecular weight and comonomer composition distributions for 15 lab‐scale copolymerization runs performed at different temperatures. The experimental runs used to fit this model are performed at temperatures between 60 and 85 °C. Gas‐phase concentrations are measured every 2.7 min throughout each run. Predicted chain‐length distributions are discretized to aid model development, keeping the number of ordinary differential equations manageable. Kinetic parameters at the reference temperature of 81 °C and activation energies are estimated. Using parameter subset selection techniques, it is determined that 53 of the 60 model parameters should be estimated using the product characterization and reactor data. An additional data set obtained at 85 °C is used for model validation, confirming the predictive power of the model. The proposed model and its parameter estimates can aid selection of operating conditions to achieve targeted polymer properties.
Intermediate and Expanded HTT Alleles and the Risk for α‐Synucleinopathies
Authors: Pérez‐Oliveira Sergio , Álvarez Ignacio , Rosas Irene , Menendez‐González Manuel , Blázquez‐Estrada Marta , Aguilar Miquel , Corte Daniela , Buongiorno Mariateresa , Molina‐Porcel Laura , Aldecoa Iban , Martí María J. , Sánchez‐Juan Pascual , Infante Jon , González‐Aramburu Isabel , García‐González Pablo , Rosende‐Roca Maitée , Boada Mercè , Ruiz Agustín , Periñán María Teresa , Macías‐García Daniel , Muñoz‐Delgado Laura , Gómez‐Garre Pilar , Mir Pablo , Clarimón Jordi , Lleo Alberto , Alcolea Daniel , De la Casa‐Fages Beatriz , Duarte Israel , Álvarez Victoria , Pastor Pau
Published: July 2022

Background

Previous studies suggest a link between CAG repeat number in the HTT gene and non‐Huntington neurodegenerative diseases.

Objective

The aim is to analyze whether expanded HTT CAG alleles and/or their size are associated with the risk for developing α‐synucleinopathies or their behavior as modulators of the phenotype.

Methods

We genotyped the HTT gene CAG repeat number and APOE‐Ɛ isoforms in a case‐control series including patients with either clinical or neuropathological diagnosis of α‐synucleinopathy.

Results

We identified three Parkinson's disease (PD) patients (0.30%) and two healthy controls (0.19%) carrying low‐penetrance HTT repeat expansions whereas none of the dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) or multisystem atrophy (MSA) patients carried pathogenic HTT expansions. In addition, a clear increase in the number of HTT CAG repeats was found among DLB and PD groups influenced by the male gender and also by the APOE4 allele among DLB patients. HTT intermediate alleles' (IAs) distribution frequency increased in the MSA group compared with controls (8.8% vs. 3.9%, respectively). These differences were indeed statistically significant in the MSA group with neuropathological confirmation. Two MSA HTT CAG IAs carriers with 32 HTT CAG repeats showed isolated polyQ inclusions in pons and basal nuclei, which are two critical structures in the neurodegeneration of MSA.

Conclusions

Our results point to a link between HTT CAG number, HTT IAs, and expanded HTT CAG repeats with other non‐HD brain pathology and support the hypothesis that they can share common neurodegenerative pathways. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
A multiscale LBM–TPM–PFM approach for modeling of multiphase fluid flow in fractured porous media
Authors: Chaaban Mohamad , Heider Yousef , Markert Bernd
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we present a reliable micro‐to‐macroscale framework to model multiphase fluid flow through fractured porous media. This is based on utilizing the capabilities of the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) within the phase‐field modeling (PFM) of fractures in multiphase porous media. In this, we propose new physically motivated phase‐field‐dependent relationships for the residual saturation, the intrinsic as well as relative permeabilities. In addition, an anisotropic, phase‐field‐dependent intrinsic permeability tensor for the fractured porous domains is formulated, which relies on the single‐ and multiphasic LBM flow simulations. Based on these results, new relationships for the variation of the macroscopic theory of porous media (TPM)–PFM model parameters in the transition zone are proposed. Whereby, a multiscale concept for the coupling between the multiphasic flow through the crack on one hand and the porous ambient, on the other hand, is achieved. The hybrid model is numerically applied on a real microgeometry of fractured porous media, extracted via X‐ray microcomputed tomography data of fractured Berea Sandstone. Moreover, the model is utilized for the calculation of the fluid leak‐off from the crack to the intact zones. Additionally, the effects of the depth of the transition zone and the orientation of the crack channels on the amount of leakage flow rates are studied. The outcomes of the numerical model proved the reliability of the multiscale model to simulate multiphasic fluid flow through fractured porous media.
Measuring contact angles on hydrophilic porous scaffolds by implementing a novel raised platform approach: A technical note
Authors: Paxton Naomi C. , Woodruff Maria A.
Published: July 2022

Contact angle (CA) analysis is a widely employed technique to assess the surface properties of solid samples, including in tissue engineering research where scaffolds are typically designed to be both porous and hydrophilic to enable cell and tissue infiltration. Paradoxically, the types of scaffolds that possess the most optimal hydrophilic surface properties for cell attachment are the most challenging surfaces to attain accurate CA measurements. Here, we propose the use of a small 3D printed platform to elevate samples above the CA measurement substrate and demonstrate reproducible and accurate CA measurements on a range of popular polymer scaffolds that had undergone 5 min plasma treatment to instigate hydrophilicity. Using four polycaprolactone or high‐density polyethylene scaffolds with porosity ranging from 35.8%–93.1%, 0° CAs were reproducibly observed by measuring the CA while the scaffolds were elevated on the 3D printed platform, compared to the highly variable false‐positive results when measuring the scaffolds while directly sitting on measurement substrates of various materials. This versatile, low‐cost modification to CA hardware overcomes the challenges associated with measuring the surface properties of porous, hydrophilic scaffolds and provides a simple tool for tissue engineering researchers to perform CA measurements for any biomaterial scaffolds to ascertain hydrophilicity which is used to infer the suitability of scaffold surfaces for cell attachment.
State‐of‐the‐art review on the high‐performance poly (ether ether ketone) composites for mechanical, tribological and bioactive characteristics
Authors: Siraj Naved , Hashmi Syed Azhar Rashid , Verma Sarika
Published: July 2022

Poly‐ether‐ether‐ketones (PEEK) exhibit a distinctive combination of thermo‐oxidative stability, chemical and solvent resistance, toughness, stiffness, and other mechanical properties, flame resistance at elevated temperatures. The promising applications in different fields evolved on several modifications, incorporating functional fillers, nanoparticles, fibers, etc. The incorporation of carbon fiber, carbon nanotubes, and graphene improves remarkably the mechanical, electrical and structural performance, precisely thermal stability, mechanical properties, thermal and electrical conductivity. The inorganic nanoparticles such as WS2, SiO2, or Al2O3 improve the matrix's tribological properties; particularly wear resistance and the coefficient of friction. Poly‐ether‐ether‐ketones is a biocompatible polymer that has gained a lot of attention as a replacement of metallic implants and other orthopedic, spinal, trauma, and dentistry applications. It has recently been used in cranioplasty to provide better protection. Bioactive surface modification of carbon–PEEK composites has only been documented in a few researches. PEEK is preferred because of its similar biocompatibility, elasticity to the bone, and radiolucency; however, due to its inert properties, it fails to integrate with the bone. Titanium (Ti) and Ti‐alloys are widely used in many intraosseous implants due to their biocompatibility and ability to osseointegrate. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the research on PEEK‐based composites, mainly mechanical, tribological and bioactive performance. PEEK and PEEK‐based composites are also explored in terms of additive manufacturing. The impact of the preparation conditions, processing parameters, type of reinforcement, and the functional filler's concentration level on the structure and properties of the resultant materials are discussed. Finally, the current and potential applications and the future prospective recommendations are proposed in the last section.
Antenatal findings and early postnatal outcomes in pregnancies with trisomy 21: a 10 year retrospective review at a tertiary centre
Authors: Stott Daniel , Dos Santos Francois , Rodgers Anna , Holgado Elaine , Pandya Pranav P.
Published: July 2022

Objective

To examine the antenatal imaging features, intrapartum findings and early postpartum course of pregnancies with trisomy 21 (T21) at a tertiary hospital in the United Kingdom.

Methods

Women with pregnancies diagnosed with T21 on antenatal or post‐mortem/postnatal karyotyping, from February 2010–2020. Outcome measures included antenatal imaging findings, fetal growth restriction (FGR), birthweight, mode of delivery and early neonatal outcomes.

Results

76 women were included. There were six intrauterine deaths and 70 livebirths. Thirty‐eight (50%) had an antenatal diagnosis and twenty‐five (33%) had a suspected diagnosis but declined further testing. The diagnosis was unanticipated in 13 (17%). Cardiac anomalies (35.5%) were the most common antenatal anomaly. Doppler abnormalities were apparent in 48/73 (68%). Eighteen (25.7%) had antenatal FGR. The majority were delivered by Caesarean section, and 21.4% of babies weighed <third percentile at delivery. Fifty‐eight (82%) were admitted to the neonatal unit. Forty‐three (61%) required respiratory support and fifty‐five (78%) needed naso‐gastric feeding or were nil by mouth. Mean PAPP‐A values were significantly lower in cases with abnormal Dopplers, FGR, congenital anomalies and birthweight <10th percentile.

Conclusions

T21 fetuses have high rates of placental insufficiency, FGR and Doppler abnormalities. Postnatally, most require respiratory and feeding support. Antenatal counselling should reflect these risks.
The long road of functional recruitment—The evolution of a gene duplicate to pyrrolizidine alkaloid biosynthesis in the morning glories (Convolvulaceae)
Authors: Prakashrao Arunraj Saranya , Beuerle Till , Simões Ana Rita G. , Hopf Christina , Çiçek Serhat Sezai , Stegemann Thomas , Ober Dietrich , Kaltenegger Elisabeth
Published: July 2022

In plants, homospermidine synthase (HSS) is a pathway‐specific enzyme initiating the biosynthesis of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which function as a chemical defense against herbivores. In PA‐producing Convolvulaceae (“morning glories”), HSS originated from deoxyhypusine synthase at least >50 to 75 million years ago via a gene duplication event and subsequent functional diversification. To study the recruitment of this ancient gene duplicate to PA biosynthesis, the presence of putative hss gene copies in 11 Convolvulaceae species was analyzed. Additionally, various plant parts from seven of these species were screened for the presence of PAs. Although all of these species possess a putative hss copy, PAs could only be detected in roots of Ipomoea neei (Spreng.) O'Donell and Distimake quinquefolius (L.) A.R.Simões & Staples in this study. A precursor of PAs was detected in roots of Ipomoea alba L. Thus, despite sharing high sequence identities, the presence of an hss gene copy does not correlate with PA accumulation in particular species of Convolvulaceae. In vitro activity assays of the encoded enzymes revealed a broad spectrum of enzyme activity, further emphasizing a functional diversity of the hss gene copies. A recently identified HSS specific amino acid motif seems to be important for the loss of the ancestral protein function—the activation of the eukaryotic initiation factor 5A (eIF5A). Thus, the motif might be indicative for a change of function but allows not to predict the new function. This emphasizes the challenges in annotating functions for duplicates, even for duplicates from closely related species.
Unveiling the dehydrogenation mechanism of dihydrogen‐bonded phenol‐borane‐dimethylamine complex in the ground and excited states
Authors: Li Chaozheng , Hu Bo , Cao Yonghua , Li Yongfeng
Published: July 2022

In this work, the density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) methods were adopted to explore the dehydrogenation mechanism of phenol‐borane‐dimethylamine (phenol‐BDMA) complex in ground (S0) and excited (S1) states. The analysis of the geometric parameters and infrared (IR) vibrational spectra indicate that the dihydrogen bond H1···H2is significantly strengthened in S1state and the dehydrogenation process may occur along the dihydrogen bond H1···H2. Upon photo‐excitation, the electronic density of phenol‐BDMA complex is redistributed and the redistribution of the electronic density can provide driving force for the dehydrogenation process in S1state. The potential energy curves reveal that the dehydrogenation process in S1state is easier than that in S0state. The charge redistribution in S1state is beneficial to the dehydrogenation process. Furthermore, it has been found that the dihydrogen bond can promote the dehydrogenation process, while the hydrogen bond can hinder the dehydrogenation process. In addition, the dehydrogenation mechanisms were described in detail. First, the H1and H2atoms gradually approach each other, and the O and H3atoms are also getting closer to each other. Subsequently, the O‐H1and B‐H2bonds break, and the H1and H2atoms dissociate from the O and B atoms, respectively. Hydrogen molecular is formed by combing the H1and H2atoms after crossing the energy barrier hopping point. In the meantime, the H3atoms dissociate from the N atom and transfer to the O atom.
Elexacaftor–Tezacaftor–Ivacaftor improves exercise capacity in adolescents with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Causer Adam J. , Shute Janis K. , Cummings Michael H. , Shepherd Anthony I. , Wallbanks Samuel R. , Pulsford Richard M. , Bright Victoria , Connett Gary , Saynor Zoe L.
Published: July 2022

Objective

Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor is a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator with the potential to improve exercise capacity. This case series of three adolescents with CF aimed to investigate whether 6 weeks treatment with Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor could improve exercise capacity in CFTR modulator naive adolescents with CF.

Methods

Three adolescents (14.0 ± 1.4 years) with CF (FEV1% predicted: 62.5 ± 17.1; F508del/F508del genotype) completed an exhaustive maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test on a cycle ergometer to determine peak oxygen uptake (O2peak) and measure changes in gas exchange and ventilation during exercise at 6 weeks. We also analyzed wrist‐worn device‐based physical activity (PA) data in two of the three cases. Validated acceleration thresholds were used to quantify time spent in each PA intensity category.

Results

Clinically meaningful improvements in O2peak were observed in all three cases (+17.6%, +52.4%, and +32.9%, respectively), with improvements greatest in those with more severe lung disease and lower fitness at baseline. Although lung function increased in all cases, inconsistent changes in markers of ventilatory and peripheral muscle efficiency likely suggest different mechanisms of improvement in this case group of adolescents with CF. Device‐based analysis of PA was variable, with one case increasing and one case decreasing.

Conclusion

In this case series, we have observed, for the first time, improvements in exercise capacity following 6 weeks of treatment with Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor. Improvements were greatest in the presence of more severe CF lung disease and lower aerobic fitness at baseline. The mechanism(s) responsible for these changes warrant further investigation in larger trials.
A Review on 3D Zinc Anodes for Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Guo Na , Huo Wenjie , Dong Xiaoyu , Sun Zhefei , Lu Yutao , Wu Xianwen , Dai Lei , Wang Ling , Lin Haichen , Liu Haodong , Liang Hanfeng , He Zhangxing , Zhang Qiaobao
Published: July 2022

Zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) have been gradually developed in recent years due to their abundant resources, low cost, and environmental friendliness. Therefore, ZIBs have received a great deal of attention from researchers, which are considered as the next generation of portable energy storage systems. However, poor overall performance of ZIBs restricts their development, which is attributed to zinc dendrites and a series of side reactions. Constructing 3D zinc anodes has proven to be an effective way to significantly improve their electrochemical performance. In this review, the challenges of zinc anodes in ZIBs, including zinc dendrites, hydrogen evolution and corrosion, as well as passivation, are comprehensively summarized and the energy storage mechanisms of the zinc anodes and 3D zinc anodes are discussed. 3D zinc anodes with different structures including fiberous, porous, ridge‐like structures, plated zinc anodes on different substrates and other 3D zinc anodes, are subsequently discussed in detail. Finally, emerging opportunities and perspectives on the material design of 3D zinc anodes are highlighted and challenges that need to be solved in future practical applications are discussed, hopefully illuminating the way forward for the development of ZIBs.
Plastic ingestion in an emaciated red kite (Milvus milvus) in England
Authors: Gerard Georgina , Common Sophie M. , Jaffe Jenny E. , Shadbolt Tammy , Sainsbury Anthony W.
Published: July 2022

The red kite (Milvus milvus) was successfully re‐introduced into England in 1989, although the population continues to face anthropogenic threats. In this report, we describe evidence of plastic ingested in the ventriculus of an adult male red kite that was emaciated. In addition, dried blood was found on the feathers overlying both wings, and subcutaneous haemorrhage was identified. Toxicology tests revealed toxic levels (>100 ng/g) of second‐generation anticoagulant rodenticides (difenacoum 3.0 ng/g, brodifacoum 734.9 ng/g) in the liver of this red kite. Three possible contributors to mortality were considered: starvation from the ingestion of plastic preventing normal digestion, collision‐related trauma and second‐generation anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning. This is the first report of plastic ingestion in a red kite. The case highlights the importance of carrying out postmortem examinations as part of post‐release health surveillance and identifies plastic ingestion as a potential anthropogenic threat facing the red kite population in England.
PIWI‐interacting RNAs and human testicular function
Authors: Saritas Gülizar , Main Ailsa Maria , Winge Sofia Boeg , Mørup Nina , Almstrup Kristian
Published: July 2022

Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) are pieces of RNA with a length below 200 bp and represent a diverse group of RNAs having many different biological functions. The best described subtype is the microRNAs which primarily function in posttranscriptional gene regulation and appear essential for most physiological processes. Of particular interest for the germline is the PIWI‐interacting RNAs (piRNAs) which are a class of sncRNA of 21–35 bp in length that are almost exclusively found in germ cells. Recently, it has become clear that piRNAs are essential for testicular function, and in this perspective, we outline the current knowledge of piRNAs in humans. Although piRNAs appear unique to germ cells, they have also been described in various somatic cancers and biofluids. Here, we discuss the potential function of piRNAs in somatic tissues and whether detection in biofluids may be used as a biomarker for testicular function.

This article is categorized under:

Reproductive System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
Decay estimates for a class of non‐Newtonian 3D magneto‐micropolar fluids
Authors: Kim Jae‐Myoung
Published: July 2022

We characterize the decay rate of strong solutions to a class of 3D magneto‐micropolar equations fluid flows of non‐Newtonian type in terms of the decay character of the initial datum. Moreover, we also obtain a sharper decay estimate for the micro‐rotation velocity.
A Feynman integral depending on two elliptic curves
Authors: Müller Hildegard , Weinzierl Stefan
Published: July 2022

Abstract

We study a two-loop four-point function with one internal mass. This Feynman integral is one of the simplest Feynman integrals depending on two elliptic curves. We transform the associated differential equation into an ε-form. We study the entries of the differential equation, and in particular the entries which depend on both elliptic curves.
Radical Transhiatal Esophagectomy with Two‐Field Lymphadenectomy and Endodissection for Distal Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Bumm Rudolf , Feussner Hubertus , Bartels Holger , Stein Hubert , Dittler Hans , Höfler Heinz , Siewert J. Rüdiger
Published: July 2022

p < 0.05). The overallrate of R0 resections was 87.2% (82.2% RTE, 87.1% THE). Overallsurvival was similar within the two study groups. Complete tumorremoval, T and N stages, and the lymph node ratio were identified asprognostic factors for long‐term survival. Overall survival was betterafter RTE than after conventional THE in patients with involved lymphnodes. The mean number of resected lymph nodes per patient in the RTEgroup was 26.7. Positive lymph nodes were most common in theparacardial region and at the lesser curvature (72%/10.8% of allinvaded abdominal nodes). In the mediastinum positive nodes were mostcommon in the paraesophageal and paraaortal region (48%/27% of all mediastinal nodes). Patients with positive abdominal and mediastinallymph nodes had a poor long‐term prognosis. Distal adenocarcinoma ofthe esophagus can be safely resected by RTE with two‐fieldlymphadenectomy and endodissection. This technique allows radical |P`enbloc|P' resection of the tumor‐bearing distal third of the esophagus, which includes the primary area of lymph node metastasis ofadenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus: the lower mediastinum andparacardial region. The analysis showed that RTE incurred fewer cardiaccomplications and a better overall survival in N1‐positive patientswhen compared retrospectively to THE. Intraoperative mediastinoscopy allows controlled dissection of the upper mediastinum and biopsy of several mediastinal lymph nodes, with the advantage of providingadditional staging information.
Fruits of their labour: biotransformation reactions of yeasts during brewery fermentation
Authors: Svedlund Natalia , Evering Simon , Gibson Brian , Krogerus Kristoffer
Published: July 2022

There is a growing appreciation for the role that yeast play in biotransformation of flavour compounds during beverage fermentations. This is particularly the case for brewing due to the continued popularity of aromatic beers produced via the dry-hopping process. Here, we review the current literature pertaining to biotransformation reactions mediated by fermentative yeasts. These reactions are diverse and include the liberation of thiols from cysteine or glutathione-bound adducts, as well as the release of glycosidically bound terpene alcohols. These changes serve generally to increase the fruit and floral aromas in beverages. This is particularly the case for the thiol compounds released via yeast β-lyase activity due to their low flavour thresholds. The role of yeast β-glucosidases in increasing terpene alcohols is less clear, at least with respect to fermentation of brewer’s wort. Yeast acetyl transferase and acetate esterase also have an impact on the quality and perceptibility of flavour compounds. Isomerization and reduction reactions, e.g. the conversion of geraniol (rose) to β-citronellol (citrus), also have potential to alter significantly flavour profiles. A greater understanding of biotransformation reactions is expected to not only facilitate greater control of beverage flavour profiles, but also to allow for more efficient exploitation of raw materials and thereby greater process sustainability.

Key points

•Yeast can alter and boost grape- and hop-derived flavour compounds in wine and beer

•β-lyase activity can release fruit-flavoured thiols with low flavour thresholds

•Floral and citrus-flavoured terpene alcohols can be released or interconverted
How to make students satisfied with digital teaching? Investigative results from teaching evaluations in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Authors: Tietz Steffen , Bodenbeck Laura , Riedel Fabian , Wallwiener Markus , Hennigs André , Heublein Sabine
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate whether students’ attitude towards online learning in Gynecology and Obstetrics changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. We further examined which variables impacted students’ satisfaction with digital learning.

Methods

A specifically developed questionnaire was used from June 2020–July 2021 for N = 234 medical students participating in the course “Gynecology and Obstetrics” at University of Heidelberg. Thirty-five items were repeatedly applied in different cohorts to assess structure- and content-related quality of teaching. In addition, their influence on overall satisfaction with digital teaching was analyzed by applying investigative analyses like multiple regression and extreme group comparisons.

Results

Especially items associated with content-related quality of teaching (β = 0.24), organization of teaching (β = 0.25) and subjective learning success (β = 0.27) seemed to be relevant predictors for overall satisfaction with courses. Fears and changes due to the pandemic situation also played a role for a subgroup of students. Aspects linked to technical quality of teaching, interactions with teachers and students or advantages of web-based learning appeared to play a subordinate role for overall satisfaction with digital teaching. Comparisons of ratings over time revealed that teaching evaluations almost remained the same.

Conclusion

Our results give several hints regarding how digital teaching should be designed and how it can be improved. Further studies are needed to validate our results and to develop methods to improve digital teaching in medicine.
Lateral neck cyst surgery without ipsilateral tonsillectomy: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Schwan Franziska E. , Künzel Julian , Weber Florian , Vielsmeier Veronika , Bohr Christopher , Andorfer Kornelia E. C.
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Several theories have been proposed regarding the origin of lateral neck cysts (LNC). Besides complete surgical resection ipsilateral tonsillectomy and dissection of a tract or its remnants is sometimes recommended. In this retrospective trial we wanted to evaluate if patients, who received LNC resection only, develop complications or recurrence to justify this surgical strategy.

Methods

Patients who received LNC resection between 2004 and 2017 at the Ear Nose and Throat Department of a university hospital were included. Data was collected from the clinic database and through a structured telephone interview.

Results

A total of 126 patients met the inclusion criteria. In this collective, the diagnosis of a lateral neck cyst was confirmed histologically. Mean age at time of operation was 38 years (± 14.6). The median follow-up time was 7 years (range 3–18). None of the participants experienced recurrent unilateral pharyngitis or tonsillitis during follow-up. Furthermore, there was no case of postoperative peritonsillar, neck phlegmon or neck abscess. No patient reported recurrence of LNC.

Conclusions

Sole complete resection of LNCs is sufficient to avoid postoperative infections and recurrences. Therefore, ipsilateral tonsillectomy and tract dissection is not necessary in routine cases of LNC surgery.