bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of learning outcomes of first year dental students using an interactive Nearpod educational platform
Authors: Messina Denise M. , Mikhail Sarah S. , Messina Matthew J. , Novopoltseva Irina A.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The impact of COVID‐19 required revisions in curricula, especially among professional programs that have traditionally required hands‐on learning of content. This study endeavored to assess the level of effectiveness of the online presentation of material both qualitatively and quantitatively in a 5‐week module on cariology for first‐year dental students. Quantitative analysis of the assessment data was required to determine if an interactive engagement platform increased student outcomes. Quantitative survey and qualitative student comments were analyzed to determine the students’ preferences for supplemental learning opportunities and utilization trends. The purpose of this study was to measure the learning outcomes of online course delivery with the use of an interactive education platform.

Methods

The dental class of 2023 received the cariology material in a live, in‐person lecture format. The class of 2024 received the same material in a combination of synchronous Zoom lectures and asynchronous interactive presentations utilizing the interactive education platform (Nearpod). The identical midterm examination on cariology was administered to both cohorts at the completion of the 5‐week module.

Results

Quantitatively, the class of 2024 had a significantly higher mean score than the class of 2023 on the midterm examination, collectively and in both female and male cohorts. Qualitatively, the dental students overwhelmingly expressed support for the ease of use and educational value of the Nearpod platform.

Conclusions

This study found that student performance on the identical exam was improved through the use of synchronous Zoom lectures and asynchronous Nearpod review sessions. The application of technology to enhance remote learning can be effective in supporting student mastery of core concepts in dental education.
Ultrastructural changes of donor livers in liver transplantation indicate hepatocytes injury
Authors: Chen Zhitao , Lin Xiaohong , Chen Chuanbao , Liao Yuan , Han Min , He Xiaoshun , Ju Weiqiang , Chen Maogen
Published: February 2022

The use of electron microscopy (EM) can provide details about cells and tissue down to the nanometer level. We aim to observe ultrastructural changes in the donor liver by EM and analyze the relationship with prognosis. Data from 89 liver transplant recipients were collected and analyzed for recovery of graft function. The results revealed significantly higher organelle injury scores in the primary liver graft nonfunction (PNF) group. High‐score group had higher peak alanine aminotransferases, peak aspartate aminotransferases, and peak international normalized ratio (p = .041, .006 and .036, respectively). Warm ischemia time, score of rough endoplasmic reticulum and nucleus was larger in low‐score group (p = .007, .006, and .025, respectively). Patients in high‐score group had a significantly short survival time (60.0% vs. 92.9%, p = .0039). No significant difference was found in the analysis of 3‐year survival rate (60% vs. 84.5%, p = .07). EM is one of feasible and effective strategy for evaluating the quality of donor liver and the patient's prognosis. Ultrastructural changes under EM indicate hepatocytes injury and a high score indicates a worse outcome in early period but does not affect long‐term survival.

Research highlights

We showed that ultrastructural changes in the donor liver by electron microscopy indicate hepatocytes injury and could be a reference for prognosis. A high score indicates a worse outcome in early period but does not affect long‐term survival. It is rare in the current researches.
Neural alterations in working memory of mild‐moderate TBI: An fMRI study in Malaysia
Authors: Chai Wen Jia , Abd Hamid Aini Ismafairus , Omar Hazim , Abdul Rahman Muhammad Riddha , Fitzrol Diana Noma , Idris Zamzuri , Ghani Abdul Rahman Izaini , Wan Mohamad Wan Nor Azlen , Mustafar Faiz , Hanafi Muhammad Hafiz , Kandasamy Regunath , Abdullah Mohd Zaid , Amaruchkul Kannapha , Valdes‐Sosa Pedro A , Bringas‐Vega Maria L , Biswal Bharat , Songsiri Jitkomut , Yaacob Hamwira , Ibrahim Haidi , Sumari Putra , Noh Nor Azila , Musa Kamarul Imran , Ahmad Asma Hayati , Azman Azlinda , Jamir Singh Paramjit Singh , Othman Azizah , Abdullah Jafri Malin
Published: February 2022

Working memory (WM) encompasses crucial cognitive processes or abilities to retain and manipulate temporary information for immediate execution of complex cognitive tasks in daily functioning such as reasoning and decision‐making. The WM of individuals sustaining traumatic brain injury (TBI) was commonly compromised, especially in the domain of WM. The current study investigated the brain responses of WM in a group of participants with mild–moderate TBI compared to their healthy counterparts employing functional magnetic resonance imaging. All consented participants (healthy: n = 26 and TBI: n = 15) performed two variations of the n‐back WM task with four load conditions (0‐, 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐back). The respective within‐group effects showed a right hemisphere‐dominance activation and slower reaction in performance for the TBI group. Random‐effects analysis revealed activation difference between the two groups in the right occipital lobe in the guided n‐back with cues, and in the bilateral occipital lobe, superior parietal region, and cingulate cortices in the n‐back without cues. The left middle frontal gyrus was implicated in the load‐dependent processing of WM in both groups. Further group analysis identified that the notable activation changes in the frontal gyri and anterior cingulate cortex are according to low and high loads. Though relatively smaller in scale, this study was eminent as it clarified the neural alterations in WM in the mild–moderate TBI group compared to healthy controls. It confirmed the robustness of the phenomenon in TBI with the reproducibility of the results in a heterogeneous non‐Western sample.
Oral Zoledronic acid bisphosphonate for the treatment of chronic low back pain with associated Modic changes: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shea Graham K. H. , Zhang Changmeng , Suen Wai S. , Cheung Prudence W. H. , Cheung Jason P. Y. , Maatta Juhani , Karppinen Jaro , Samartzis Dino
Published: February 2022

To assess the safety and efficacy of oral 50 mg Zoledronic acid (ZA) bisphosphate once‐a‐week for 6‐weeks to placebo among patients with chronic low back pain (cLBP) and Modic changes (MC) on MRI. A parallel, double‐blinded randomized controlled study was performed at a single center, consisted of 25 subjects with cLBP and MC that received ZA (n = 13) or placebo (n = 12). Evaluation was at baseline, 2‐weeks, 4‐weeks, 3‐months and 6‐months for assessment of LBP/leg pain intensity, disability (Oswestry‐Disability‐Index: ODI), health‐related quality‐of‐life (RAND‐36), and mental component summary scores (MCS). Type 2 MC at baseline (56%) were prevalent. In the ZA group, LBP intensity was lower at 4‐weeks in comparison to placebo (5.1 ± 1.9 vs. 6.9 ± 1.8, p = 0.038) (minimal clinically important difference [MCID] = 1.5). LBP intensity reduced at 4‐weeks and 3‐months in the ZA‐treated group in comparison to baseline. Although there was no difference in ODI, subscale RAND‐36 metrics for physical function (p = 0.038), energy/fatigue (p = 0.040) and pain (p = 0.003) were improved at 3‐months compared to placebo, with moderate significant difference for pain at 6‐months (p = 0.051). Correlated MCS scores to baseline also improved at 3‐months (p = 0.035) and 6‐months (p = 0.028) by 6.9 and 6.8, respectively, (MCID = 3.8). A reduction in MC endplate affected area at 6‐month follow‐up was noted in the ZA group (−0.67 ± 0.69 cm2), while in the placebo group no change in size was observed (0.0 ± 0.15; p = 0.041). Three subjects withdrew from the study and no long‐lasting adverse events. Oral ZA was a safe and effective treatment that reduced MC volume, improved LBP symptoms and quality‐of‐life measures in cLBP subjects with MCs.
Fatty acid profile, secondary compounds and antioxidant activities in the fresh forage, hay and silage of sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) and sulla (Hedysarum coronarium)
Authors: Rufino‐Moya Pablo José , Bertolín Juan Ramón , Blanco Mireia , Lobón Sandra , Joy Margalida
Published: February 2022

Background

Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) and sulla (Hedysarum coronarium) are forage legumes usually preserved to optimize their utilization as feedstuffs. However, the method of preservation modifies the chemical composition differently in both legume species. Secondary compounds (such as proanthocyanidins, fatty acids, carotenoids and tocopherols) present in forages affect the quality of animal products. Therefore, the effect of preservation on the contents of secondary compounds should be investigated. Accoridngly, samples of sainfoin and sulla were directly freeze‐dried (fresh), dried at ambient temperature (hay) and vacuum‐packaged for 82 days (silage).

Results

In both legumes, the total fatty acid and C18:3 n‐3 contents decreased and C16:0 increased with preservation (P < 0.001), with a greater effect for the hays than for the silages. For both legumes, the lutein, neoxanthin and violaxanthin contents decreased to a greater extent in the silages than in the hays (P < 0.001). Both hays exhibited the lowest β‐carotene concentrations (P < 0.001). The α‐tocopherol contents decreased in hays, but not in silages, compared to the fresh forages of both legumes (P < 0.001). The antioxidant activities were lower in the silages than in the hays and fresh forages (P < 0.001) and were very strongly related to the contents of polyphenols and proanthocyanidins (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Haymaking affected the fatty acid, carotenoid and α‐tocopherol contents to a greater extent but had a lesser effect on the antioxidant activities than silage‐making, which were very strongly related to their contents of polyphenols and proanthocyanidins. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Identifying trend shifts in vegetation greenness in China from 1982 to 2015
Authors: Jiang Ping , Ding Wen‐guang , Yuan Ye , Hu Liequn , Ye Weifeng
Published: February 2022

Understanding vegetation evolution is critical for exploring changes in terrestrial ecosystems and identifying future challenges. However, analyses that simultaneously examine trend shifts in vegetation greenness at the national, regional, biome, and pixel scales in China are still rare. Using long‐term (1982–2015) satellite data and the breaks for additive season and trend (BFAST) technique, we identified breakpoints in normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) in China. The results showed that the annual mean NDVI gradually increased. A total of 68.8% of the vegetated area exhibited upward trends in NDVI, most of which was distributed in Southeast China and the Loess Plateau. Changes in NDVI trends occurred in 78.7% of the total vegetated areas, while hotspots were concentrated in Northwest and North China. A rapid increase in breakpoints was detected after 1999, mainly concentrated in North and Northwest China, and corresponding to the times and areas with the highest ecological engineering efforts. Positive shifts in NDVI trends were more common and generally distributed on the eastern side of the Hu Huanyong line, while browning (negative) shifts were mainly distributed on the western side and were gradually expanding, indicating a possible tendency toward environmental degradation. Although unstable vegetation areas that underwent land cover type changes had higher frequencies of breakpoints, the proportion of stable vegetation experiencing NDVI trend shifts was higher after 2000, probably because human intervention buffered external disturbances in unstable areas. Identifying hotspot areas of shifts in vegetation greenness can help setting priorities when taking measures for ecosystem conservation, thus provide scientific reference for sustainable land development.
Stenting versus balloon dilatation in patients with tracheal benign stenosis: The STROBE trial
Authors: Marchioni Alessandro , Andrisani Dario , Tonelli Roberto , Andreani Alessandro , Cappiello Gaia Francesca , Ori Margherita , Gozzi Filippo , Bruzzi Giulia , Nani Chiara , Feminò Raimondo , Manicardi Linda , Baroncini Serena , Mattioli Francesco , Fermi Matteo , Fantini Riccardo , Tabbì Luca , Castaniere Ivana , Presutti Livio , Clini Enrico
Published: February 2022

Background

It is well known that benign tracheal stenosis represents an obstacle to open surgery, and that its treatment could be challenging. Two endoscopic techniques have so far been adopted to restore tracheal patency: balloon dilatation (BA) through laryngoscopy, and tracheal stenting (ST) with rigid bronchoscopy. The main objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of BA and ST to treat benign tracheal stenosis not eligible for surgery. We also compared the rate of adverse events in the two treatment groups.

Methods

A retrospective, observational cohort study was carried out at the University Hospital of Modena (Italy) from November 2012 to November 2017 in two separate departments. Patients were considered to be “stabilized” (primary outcome) if they did not report significant respiratory symptoms, or restenosis in the long‐term (2 years) following the endoscopic procedure.

Results

Sixty‐six patients were included in the study (33 in the BA and 33 in the ST group, respectively). Unadjusted Kaplan–Meier estimates showed a greater therapeutic effect of ST compared to BA at 2 years (hazard ratio = 3.9 95%CI [1.5–9.8], p = .01). After adjusting for confounders, stratified analyses showed that this effect was significant in patients with complex stenosis, idiopathic etiology, and degree of stenosis >70%. Compared with BA, ST showed a higher rate of adverse events (p = .01).

Conclusions

Compared to BA, ST seems to be more effective in achieving stabilization of tracheal patency in complex benign tracheal stenosis, although burdened with a significantly higher number of adverse effects. These findings warrant future prospective study for confirmation.

Level of evidence: 3.
Applying empirical dynamic modeling to distinguish abiotic and biotic drivers of population fluctuations in sympatric fishes
Authors: Wasserman Ben A. , Rogers Tanya L. , Munch Stephan B. , Palkovacs Eric P.
Published: February 2022

Fluctuations in the population abundances of interacting species are widespread. Such fluctuations could be a response to abiotic factors, biotic interactions, or a combination of the two. Correctly identifying the drivers is critical for effective population management. However, such effects are not always static in nature. Nonlinear relationships between abiotic factors and biotic interactions make it difficult to parse true effects. We used a type of nonlinear forecasting, empirical dynamic modeling, to investigate the context‐dependent species interaction between a common fish (three‐spine stickleback) and an endangered one (northern tidewater goby) in a fluctuating environment: a central California bar‐built estuary. We found little evidence for competition, instead both species largely responded independently to abiotic conditions. Stickleback were negatively affected by sandbar breaching. The strongest predictor of tidewater goby abundance was stickleback abundance; however, this effect was not a uniform negative effect of stickleback on goby as would be hypothesized under interspecific competition. The effect of stickleback on gobies was positive, though it was temporally restricted. Tidewater goby abundance in the summer was strongly positively correlated to stickleback abundance in the spring, which represents an offset in the reproductive and recruitment peaks in the two species that may help minimize competition and promote coexistence. Our study demonstrates how empirical dynamic modeling can be applied to understand drivers of population abundance in putative competitors and inform management for endangered species.
How long can the sperm wait? Effect of incubation time on ICSI outcomes
Authors: Torra‐Massana Marc , Quintana‐Vehí Andreu , Barragán Montserrat , Bellido Raquel , Rodríguez Amelia , Vassena Rita
Published: February 2022

In sperm processing for IVF/ICSI incubation times differ considerably both between and within assisted reproduction facilities. There is no established consensus on the optimal sperm incubation timings to maximize pregnancy rates, and the few studies addressing this association rely on manual and operator‐dependent methods for time recording. The present retrospective cohort study includes 1169 ICSI cycles using fresh semen processed by swim‐up. An operator‐independent, radiofrequency‐based system was used to record sperm incubation times: from sample collection to swim‐up (T1, 0.35 ± 0.26); from swim‐up to ICSI (T2, 3.30 ± 2.2); and total time from sample collection to ICSI (T, 3.66 ± 2.26). In oocyte donation cycles, we observed a significant negative effect of T1 on fertilization rate (FR; generalized linear modelling regression, coeff. −0.20, p = 0.001); however, after analysing all times by deciles and by adjusted logistic regression, none of the time intervals had a significant effect on pregnancy (biochemical, clinical, and ongoing) and live birth (LB) rates (p > 0.05 for all outcomes). In cycles using the patient's oocytes, we observed a negative effect of T2 (ordinal regression, coeff. −0.25, p = 0.011) and T (−0.33, p = 0.005) on the mean morphological score of the embryo cohort. In these cycles, a trend associating longer values of T with higher LB rates was identified (OR = 1.47, p = 0.050), although this difference is likely not clinically significant. In conclusion, while longer sperm incubation in vitro may impact slightly both FRs and embryo morphology after ICSI, no adverse effects were detected on the reproductive outcomes.
Application of ethylene‐regulating packaging in post‐harvest fruits and vegetables storage: A review
Authors: Zhang Haozheng , Han Miaomiao , Xie Yao , Wang Mengjun , Cao Chongjiang
Published: February 2022

Ethylene is a key hormone to promote the ripening of fruits and vegetables (F&V). It is detrimental to the transportation, storage, and sale of F&V. In order to control the maturation of F&V and reduce their losses, many ethylene‐regulating packaging (ERP) have been developed. In this review, we first introduced the synthesis pathway of ethylene. Next, we divided ERP into four categories: ethylene‐degrading packaging, ethylene‐adsorbing packaging, modified atmosphere packaging, and bioactive packaging according to the way of regulating ethylene, clarifying the regulation mechanism and characteristics of various types of packaging. Finally, we predicted the future development direction of ERP.
Local influence analysis for the sliced average third‐moment estimation
Authors: Rao Weidong , Liu Xiaofei , Chen Fei
Published: February 2022

Sliced average third‐moment estimation (SATME) is a typical method for sufficient dimension reduction (SDR) based on high‐order conditional moment. It is useful, particularly in the scenarios of regression mixtures. However, as SATME uses the third‐order conditional moment of the predictors given the response, it may not as robust as some other SDR methods that use lower order moments, say, sliced inverse regression (SIR) and slice average variance estimation (SAVE). Based on the space displacement function, a local influence analysis framework of SATME is constructed including a statistic of influence assessment for the observations. Furthermore, a data‐trimming strategy is suggested based on the above influence assessment. The proposed methodologies solve a typical issue that also exists in some other SDR methods. A real‐data analysis and simulations are presented.
Advances in Flexible Metallic Transparent Electrodes
Authors: Nguyen Viet Huong , Papanastasiou Dorina T. , Resende Joao , Bardet Laetitia , Sannicolo Thomas , Jiménez Carmen , Muñoz‐Rojas David , Nguyen Ngoc Duy , Bellet Daniel
Published: February 2022

Transparent electrodes (TEs) are pivotal components in many modern devices such as solar cells, light‐emitting diodes, touch screens, wearable electronic devices, smart windows, and transparent heaters. Recently, the high demand for flexibility and low cost in TEs requires a new class of transparent conductive materials (TCMs), serving as substitutes for the conventional indium tin oxide (ITO). So far, ITO has been the most used TCM despite its brittleness and high cost. Among the different emerging alternative materials to ITO, metallic nanomaterials have received much interest due to their remarkable optical‐electrical properties, low cost, ease of manufacturing, flexibility, and widespread applicability. These involve metal grids, thin oxide/metal/oxide multilayers, metal nanowire percolating networks, or nanocomposites based on metallic nanostructures. In this review, a comparison between TCMs based on metallic nanomaterials and other TCM technologies is discussed. Next, the different types of metal‐based TCMs developed so far and the fabrication technologies used are presented. Then, the challenges that these TCMs face toward integration in functional devices are discussed. Finally, the various fields in which metal‐based TCMs have been successfully applied, as well as emerging and potential applications, are summarized.
Lack of association between bridging integrator 1 (BIN1) rs744373 polymorphism and tau‐PET load in cognitively intact older adults
Authors: Schaeverbeke Jolien , Luckett Emma S , Gabel Silvy , Reinartz Mariska , De Meyer Steffi , Cleynen Isabelle , Sleegers Kristel , Van Broeckhoven Christine , Bormans Guy , Serdons Kim , Van Laere Koen , Dupont Patrick , Vandenberghe Rik ,   and the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative**
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The bridging integrator 1(BIN1) rs744373 risk polymorphism has been linked to increased [18F]AV1451 signal in non‐demented older adults (ie., mild cognitive impairment [MCI] plus cognitively normal [CN] individuals). However, the association of BIN1 with in vivo tau, amyloid beta (Aβ) burden, and cognitive impairment in the asymptomatic stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains unknown.

Methods

The BIN1 effect on [18F]AV1451 binding was evaluated in 59 cognitively normal (CN) participants (39% apolipoprotein E [APOE ε4]) from the Flemish Prevent AD Cohort KU Leuven (F‐PACK), as well as in 66 Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) CN participants, using voxelwise and regional statistics. For comparison, 52 MCI patients from ADNI were also studied.

Results

Forty‐four percent of F‐PACK participants were BIN1 rs744373 risk‐allele carriers, 21% showed high amyloid burden, and 8% had elevated [18F]AV1451 binding. In ADNI, 53% and 50% of CNs and MCIs, respectively, carried the BIN1 rs744373 risk‐allele. Amyloid positivity was present in 23% of CNs and 51% of MCIs, whereas 2% of CNs and 35% of MCIs showed elevated [18F]AV1451 binding. There was no significant effect of BIN1 on voxelwise or regional [18F]AV1451 in F‐PACK or ADNI CNs, or in the pooled CN sample. No significant association between BIN1 and [18F]AV1451 was obtained in ADNI MCI patients. However, in the MCI group, numerically higher [18F]AV1451 binding was observed in the BIN1 risk‐allele group compared to the BIN1 normal group in regions corresponding to more progressed tau pathology.

Discussion

We could not confirm the association between BIN1 rs744373 risk‐allele and elevated [18F]AV1451 signal in CN older adults or MCI. Numerically higher [18F]AV1451 binding was observed, however, in the MCI BIN1 risk‐allele group, indicating that the previously reported positive effect may be confounded by group. Therefore, when studying how the BIN1 risk polymorphism influences AD pathogenesis, a distinction should be made between asymptomatic, MCI, and dementia stages of AD.
Treatment with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and incidence of dementia: Data from pooled double‐blind randomized controlled trials and nationwide disease and prescription registers
Authors: Nørgaard Caroline Holm , Friedrich Sarah , Hansen Charlotte Thim , Gerds Thomas , Ballard Clive , Møller Daniel Vega , Knudsen Lotte Bjerre , Kvist Kajsa , Zinman Bernard , Holm Ellen , Torp‐Pedersen Christian , Mørch Lina Steinrud
Published: February 2022

Introduction

People with type 2 diabetes have increased risk of dementia. Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonists (RAs) are among the promising therapies for repurposing as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease; a key unanswered question is whether they reduce dementia incidence in people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We assessed exposure to GLP‐1 RAs in patients with type 2 diabetes and subsequent diagnosis of dementia in two large data sources with long‐term follow‐up: pooled data from three randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled cardiovascular outcome trials (15,820 patients) and a nationwide Danish registry‐based cohort (120,054 patients).

Results

Dementia rate was lower both in patients randomized to GLP‐1 RAs versus placebo (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.47 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.25–0.86) and in the nationwide cohort (HR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.86–0.93 with yearly increased exposure to GLP‐1 RAs).

Discussion

Treatment with GLP‐1 RAs may provide a new opportunity to reduce the incidence of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes.
PICaSSO virtual electronic chromendoscopy accurately reflects combined endoscopic and histological assessment for prediction of clinical outcomes in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Nardone Olga Maria , Bazarova Alina , Bhandari Pradeep , Cannatelli Rosanna , Daperno Marco , Ferraz Jose , Goetz Martin , Gui Xianyong , Hayee Bu , De Hertogh Gert , Lazarev Mark , Li Ji , Parra‐Blanco Adolfo , Pastorelli Luca , Panaccione Remo , Occhipinti Vincenzo , Rath Timo , Smith Samuel C. L. , Shivaji Uday N. , Tontini Gian Eugenio , Vieth Michael , Villanacci Vincenzo , Zardo Davide , Bisschops Raf , Kiesslich Ralf , Ghosh Subrata , Iacucci Marietta
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims

A composite endoscopic‐histologic remission is increasingly explored as an important endpoint in ulcerative colitis (UC). We investigated combined endoscopic‐histologic remission for predicting clinical outcomes at 12 months compared with endoscopic remission alone using the high definition virtual chromoendoscopy (VCE) Paddington International virtual ChromoendoScopy ScOre (PICaSSO) and histology scores.

Methods

Ulcerative colitis patients, prospectively enrolled from 11 international centres, underwent VCE with targeted biopsies and followed up for 12 months. Endoscopic activity was assessed by Mayo Endoscopic Score (MES), Ulcerative Colitis Endoscopic Index Severity (UCEIS) followed by VCE‐PICaSSO. Robarts Histopathological Index|Robarts Histological index≤3 without neutrophils in mucosa, and Nancy Histological index (NHI)≤ 1 were used to define histologic remission. Combined endoscopic‐histologic remission was compared with endoscopic remission alone by Cox proportional hazards model and by two‐ and three‐proportion analysis using pre‐specified clinical outcomes.

Results

307 patients were recruited and 302 analysed. There was no difference in survival without specified clinical outcomes between PICaSSO defined endoscopic remission alone and endoscopic plus histologic remission in the rectum (HR 0.42, 95%CI 0.16‐1.11 and HR 1.03, 95%CI 0.42‐2.52 for Robarts Histological index and NHI respectively) at 12 months. There was however a significant survival advantage without specified clinical outcome events for UCEIS combined with histology compared with UCEIS alone (HR 0.30, 95%CI 0.12‐0.75, p = 0.02) at 12 months (but not combined with NHI). For MES there was no advantage for predicting specified clinical outcomes at 12 months for endoscopy alone versus endoscopy plus histology, but there were differences in two and three proportion analysis at 6 months.

Conclusion

Endoscopic remission by VCE‐PICaSSO alone was similar to combined endoscopic and histologic remission for predicting specified clinical outcomes at 12 months. Larger studies with specific therapeutic interventions are required to further confirm the findings.
Curing inflammatory diseases using phosphorous dendrimers
Authors: Caminade Anne‐Marie , Turrin Cédric‐Olivier , Poupot Rémy
Published: February 2022

Different types of water‐soluble phosphorous dendrimers have been synthesized and display many different biological properties. It has been shown in particular that phosphorous dendrimers of first generation functionalized with azabisphosphonate terminal functions are able to stimulate the human immune system ex vivo. These dendrimers are internalized by monocytes within a few seconds, and induce their anti‐inflammatory activation. The presence of the dendrimers induces also the inhibition of the differentiation of monocytes into osteoclasts, the maturation of dendritic cells, and inhibits the proliferation of the proinflammatory CD4+ T lymphocytes. Finally, after 2–3 weeks of culture of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, amplifications by several tens of natural killer cells is observed. In view of all these properties, the influence of these azabisphosphonate‐dendrimers has been tested in vivo with several animal models, against different chronic or acute inflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, uveitis, and psoriasis, but also against myeloid leukemia, a hematological cancer. The hematological safety has been demonstrated in mice, as there is no platelet aggregation, no hemolysis, and no disturbance in the hematological formula. The safety of the azabisphosphonate‐dendrimer has been assessed also with non‐human primates (cynomolgus monkeys) which received repeated injections, as a de‐risking pre‐clinical test. Biochemical, hematological, and all immunological parameters in peripheral blood remained within a normal physiological range throughout the study, and all survived well. Other phosphorous dendrimers also display anti‐inflammatory properties in vivo, in particular dendrimers functionalized with mannose derivatives, which prevent acute lung diseases when given orally (per os) to mice.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease
Outer membrane vesicles as biomimetic vaccine carriers against infections and cancers
Authors: Mat Rani Nur Najihah Izzati , Alzubaidi Zahraa M. , Butt Adeel Masood , Mohammad Faizal Nur Dini Fatini , Sekar Mahendran , Azhari Hanisah , Mohd Amin Mohd Cairul Iqbal
Published: February 2022

In the last decade, nanoparticle‐based therapeutic modalities have emerged as promising treatment options for cancer and infectious diseases. To improve prognosis, chemotherapeutic and antimicrobial drugs must be delivered selectively to the target sites. Researchers have increasingly focused their efforts on improving drug delivery, with a particular emphasis on cancer and infectious diseases. When drugs are administered systemically, they become diluted and can diffuse to all tissues but only until the immune system intervenes and quickly removes them from circulation. To enhance and prolong the systemic circulation of drugs, nanocarriers have been explored and used; however, nanocarriers have a major drawback in that they can trigger immune responses. Numerous nanocarriers for optimal drug delivery have been developed using innovative and effective biointerface technologies. Autologous cell‐derived drug carriers, such as outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), have demonstrated improved bioavailability and reduced toxicity. Thus, this study investigates the use of biomimetic OMVs as biomimetic vaccine carriers against infections and cancers to improve our understanding in the field of nanotechnology. In addition, discussion on the advantages, disadvantages, and future prospects of OMVs will also be explored.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease

Biology‐Inspired Nanomaterials > Protein and Virus‐Based Structures
Hadronization via gravitational confinement of fast neutrinos: Mechanics at fm distances
Authors: Vayenas Constantinos G. , Tsousis Dionysios , Grigoriou Dimitrios , Parisis Kostas , Aifantis Elias C.
Published: February 2022

We present a summary of the rotating Lepton model (RLM) of composite particles which is a Bohr‐type model using gravity rather than electrostatic attraction as the centripetal force and examines the formation of hadrons via the rotational motion of three gravitating relativistic neutrinos. Model solution via the use of Special or General relativity and of the de Broglie wavelength equation shows that the three neutrinos can get confined in circular orbits of fm radii with velocities extremely close to the speed of light. The computed Lorentz factor is which, via energy conversation, implies that the mass of the composite particle (e.g., of a neutron) is a factor of γ larger than the rest mass of the three rotating neutrinos (∼0.14 eV/c2), and equal (within 1%) with the experimental neutron mass value (∼ 939 MeV/c2). The computed rotational radius (0.63 fm) is also in quantitative agreement with the experimental value. The application of the RLM to compute the masses of heavier composite particles, such as hadrons, bosons and mesons is then briefly oulined, together with its use to compute the masses of neutrinos from hadron masses and to relate the Strong and Weak nuclear forces with relativistic gravity.
Constrained superfields in dynamical background
Authors: Aoki Shuntaro , Terada Takahiro
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We study the nonlinear realization of supersymmetry in a dynamical/cosmological background in which derivative terms like kinetic terms are finite. Starting from linearly realized theories, we integrate out heavy modes without neglecting derivative terms to obtain algebraic constraints on superfields. Thanks to the supersymmetry breaking contribution by the kinetic energy, the validity of constrained superfields can be extended to cosmological regimes and phenomena such as reheating after inflation, kinetic-energy domination, and the kinetic and standard misalignment of axion.
Quantum backreaction on chronology horizons
Authors: Emparan Roberto , Tomašević Marija
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We extend in two directions our recent investigation of strongly interacting quantum fields in a class of spacetimes with chronology horizons (Misner spacetimes). First, we generalize to arbitrary dimensions the holographic mechanism of chronology protection in the absence of gravitational backreaction. The AdS geometry dual to a conformal field theory in these spacetimes shows, in every dimension, an entire separation between the bulk duals of the chronal and non-chronal regions, with the former being complete, regular geometries. In some instances the protection requires the inclusion of non-planar CFT corrections, which we obtain using double holography. Second, we compute the gravitational backreaction of the quantum fields in the Misner-AdS3 spacetime, and show that the null chronology horizon turns into a strong, spacelike curvature singularity. This is one of the few controlled, explicit examples where we can see quantum effects change a Cauchy horizon into a spacelike singularity.
Meromorphic modular forms and the three-loop equal-mass banana integral
Authors: Broedel Johannes , Duhr Claude , Matthes Nils
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We consider a class of differential equations for multi-loop Feynman integrals which can be solved to all orders in dimensional regularisation in terms of iterated integrals of meromorphic modular forms. We show that the subgroup under which the modular forms transform can naturally be identified with the monodromy group of a certain second-order differential operator. We provide an explicit decomposition of the spaces of modular forms into a direct sum of total derivatives and a basis of modular forms that cannot be written as derivatives of other functions, thereby generalising a result by one of the authors form the full modular group to arbitrary finite-index subgroups of genus zero. Finally, we apply our results to the two- and three-loop equal-mass banana integrals, and we obtain in particular for the first time complete analytic results for the higher orders in dimensional regularisation for the three-loop case, which involves iterated integrals of meromorphic modular forms.
Temporal-spatial decays for the Stokes flows in half spaces
Authors: Bui The Anh
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we prove new estimates on temporal-spatial decays in $$L^1$$

L
1

for solutions to the Stokes equations in the half spaces. Our approach is based on the Ukai’s solution formula of the Stokes equations and heat kernel estimates.
Towards hot levelling strategies for steel heavy plates: analysis of flatness evolution in accelerated cooling, hot levelling, and final air cooling via thermo-mechanical FE modelling
Authors: Laugwitz Marvin , Jochum Martin , Scheffer Tobias , Lohmar Johannes
Published: February 2022

In the production of heavy plates, the flatness of the products is an essential feature that must be set within narrow tolerances. Thus, the understanding of the flatness evolution throughout all relevant production steps in the rolling mill is paramount for high-quality products. It is known that most flatness defects arise either due to roll gap deviations in rolling or because of changing thermal conditions in the subsequent cooling processes. Severe defects induced during rolling are treated by a pre-leveller while the final heavy plate flatness after cooling is set in a dedicated hot leveller. Consequently, thermally induced defects need to be removed in this dedicated hot leveller as well. However, it is not yet feasible to model the flatness evolution throughout the relevant processing sequence consisting of accelerated cooling after hot rolling, hot levelling, and final air cooling. In order to close this gap and to analyse the process sequence with regard to flatness evolution, within this study, two cooling and a levelling model were developed and coupled with respect to thermal history, deformation, and residual stresses. These coupled thermo-mechanical finite element (FE) models were successfully applied to predict the flatness evolution in heavy plate production. Firstly, the formation of centre waves caused by inhomogeneous cooling conditions was captured. Secondly, the change in flatness during hot levelling was predicted. Thirdly, a transition from centre to edge waves was observed during final air cooling after levelling. This phenomenon (sometimes observed in industrial heavy plate production) was successfully reproduced in a sequence of coupled simulations for the first time. Finally, the hot levelling process was analysed via a parameter study to understand the root cause of this transition and to propose alternative hot levelling strategies that avoid it.
Drug-handling problems and expectations of the ideal pediatric drug—reported by children and their parents
Authors: Herziger Birthe , Jeschke Sarah , Müller Ruth Melinda , Neininger Martina Patrizia , Bertsche Thilo , Bertsche Astrid
Published: February 2022

Experienced drug-handling problems and inadequately considered expectations for drug therapy have an unfavorable influence on therapy. We performed a questionnaire survey in (i) parents of 0–5-year-old children and (ii) 6–17-year olds and their parents. We assessed (A) experienced drug-handling problems and (B) expectations for drug therapy. (i) Forty-six parents and (ii) 103 children and their parents participated in the study. Experienced drug-handling problems were described by (i) 100% of parents and (ii) 62% of children and 70% of parents. Problems concerned with the preparation of the drug, dosing, compliance with the time interval, and acceptance. (i) Sixty-five percent of parents preferred a peroral route of drug administration, while (ii) 74% of children and 86% of parents did so. Preferred characteristics of peroral drug formulations, e.g., liquid versus solid drug formulations or flavor, were highly heterogeneous. Preferences of 6–17-year-old children and their parents matched in 43 to 66%.

   Conclusion: Most children and their parents had already experienced drug-handling problems. Preferences concerning the ideal pediatric drug were highly heterogeneous and in about half of cases, preferences of children and their parents differed. Thus, the children should be approached directly. If information is solely gained from parents, the children’s needs might remain unmet.

What is Known:• Pediatric drug administration is complex and therefore error-prone.•Experiences and expectations of children and their parents should be considered.

What is New:•Most pediatric patients and their parents have already experienced drug-handling problems.• Expectations concerning the ideal pediatric drug are highly heterogeneous. Parents are often insufficiently aware of those expectations in their children.
Tree Automata and Pigeonhole Classes of Matroids: I
Authors: Funk Daryl , Mayhew Dillon , Newman Mike
Published: February 2022

Hliněný’s Theorem shows that any sentence in the monadic second-order logic of matroids can be tested in polynomial time, when the input is limited to a class of $${\mathbb {F}}$$
F
-representable matroids with bounded branch-width (where $${\mathbb {F}}$$
F
is a finite field). If each matroid in a class can be decomposed by a subcubic tree in such a way that only a bounded amount of information flows across displayed separations, then the class has bounded decomposition-width. We introduce the pigeonhole property for classes of matroids: if every subclass with bounded branch-width also has bounded decomposition-width, then the class is pigeonhole. An efficiently pigeonhole class has a stronger property, involving an efficiently-computable equivalence relation on subsets of the ground set. We show that Hliněný’s Theorem extends to any efficiently pigeonhole class. In a sequel paper, we use these ideas to extend Hliněný’s Theorem to the classes of fundamental transversal matroids, lattice path matroids, bicircular matroids, and $$H$$
H
-gain-graphic matroids, where H is any finite group. We also give a characterisation of the families of hypergraphs that can be described via tree automata: a family is defined by a tree automaton if and only if it has bounded decomposition-width. Furthermore, we show that if a class of matroids has the pigeonhole property, and can be defined in monadic second-order logic, then any subclass with bounded branch-width has a decidable monadic second-order theory.
Etiologies and treatments of chronic intestinal failure-short bowel syndrome (SBS) in Japanese adults: a real-world observational study
Authors: Mizushima Tsunekazu , Udagawa Eri , Hasegawa Miyuki , Tazuke Yuko , Okuyama Hiroomi , Fernandez Jovelle , Nakamura Shiro
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) with intestinal failure (SBS-IF) requires long-term parenteral nutrition (PN). This study investigated the real-world etiologies of SBS, treatment patterns, and PN-related outcomes among adult patients with SBS-IF in Japan.

Methods

This retrospective, observational cohort study was based on data from April, 2008 to January, 2020 from one of the largest hospital-based claim databases in Japan. Analyzed patients were aged ≥ 16 years, had received continuous PN for ≥ 6 months, and had SBS or undergone SBS-related surgery with a diagnosis of a causative disease. The primary endpoint was PN weaning.

Results

We analyzed data for 393 patients. The most frequent causes of SBS-IF were ileus (31.8%), Crohn’s disease (20.1%), and mesenteric ischemia (16.0%). Of 144/393 (36.6%) patients who were weaned off their PN, 48 (33.3%) were subsequently restarted on PN. Of 276/393 (70.2%) patients whose PN was initiated in hospital, 156 (56.5%) transitioned to home management. The mean duration of initial PN was 450.4 and 675.5 days for patients who were able or unable to be weaned off PN, respectively. Sepsis (67.4%), catheter-related bloodstream infections (49.1%), and liver disorders (45.0%) were the most reported PN-related complications.

Conclusions

Most patients with SBS-IF in Japan could not be weaned off PN and suffered life-threatening complications.
Introduced predators and nest competitors shape distribution and breeding performance of seabirds: feral pigeons as a new threat
Authors: Rodríguez Beneharo , Rodríguez Airam , Siverio Felipe , Martínez Juan M. , Sacramento Enrique , Acosta Yarci
Published: February 2022

Petrels are particularly sensitive to predation by introduced species. Many populations have reduced their breeding ranges, currently mainly occupying predator-free sites. Breeding range reduction leads to interspecific competition for nesting sites, which can be detrimental to petrels. Here, we evaluate how the presence of introduced mammals (catsFelis catusand ratsRattusspp.) and potential competitors for nest sites (Cory’s shearwatersCalonectris borealisand feral rock pigeonsColumba livia) shape the distribution, breeding density, and breeding performance of Bulwer’s petrelBulweria bulweriion Tenerife, the largest and most densely human populated of the Canary Islands. We estimated nest density, assessed the role of nest location and physical characteristics of nests on breeding success, and determined causes of breeding failure by introduced predators and competitors. Nest density was higher in predator-free colonies on marine rocks. Cat presence was the best predictor of nest density, but it was not correlated with either presence or abundance of competitors. Breeding success varied between years and colonies but was not related to nest characteristics. Pigeon competition for nests was the most frequent cause of breeding failure (7.3%), followed by rat predation (6.3%). We also compared petrel and pigeon nest cavities and found considerable overlap in the physical size of nest sites. Our study provides insights into an overlooked impact of the invasive rock pigeon: nest competition with small seabirds. We encourage more research on the effects of pigeons on nest density, as well as disease and pathogen transmission, and vegetation changes within seabird colonies.