bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dimensional changes after horizontal and vertical guided bone regeneration without membrane fixation using the retentive flap technique: A 1‐year retrospective study
Authors: Park Jin‐Young , Chung Hye‐Min , Strauss Franz‐Josef , Lee Jung‐Seok
Published: June 2023

Aim

To evaluate the dimensional changes after horizontal and vertical guided bone regeneration (GBR) without membrane fixation using the retentive flap technique.

Methods

This study retrospectively examined two cohorts that received vertical or horizontal ridge augmentations (VA or HA groups). GBR was performed using particulate bone substitutes and resorbable collagen membranes. The augmented sites were stabilized using the retentive flap technique without any additional membrane fixation. The augmented tissue dimensions were assessed using cone‐beam computed tomography at preoperative, immediately postoperative (IP), 4 months (4M), and 1 year (1Y).

Results

Postoperative vertical bone gain in 11 participants of VA group amounted to 5.96 ± 1.88 mm at IP, which decreased to 5.53 ± 1.62 at 4M and to 5.26 ± 1.52 mm at 1Y (intragroup p < 0.05). The horizontal bone gain at IP in 12 participants amounted to 3.98 ± 2.06 mm, which decreased to 3.02 ± 2.06 at 4M and to 2.48 ± 2.09 mm at 1Y (intragroup p < 0.05). The mean implant dehiscence defect height after 1Y was 0.19 ± 0.50 mm in the VA group, and 0.57 ± 0.93 mm in the HA group.

Conclusion

GBR without membrane fixation using the retentive flap technique seems to preserve the radiographic bone dimensions of vertically augmented sites. This technique may be less effective at preserving the width of the augmented tissue.
Exosomal miR‐6733‐5p mediates cross‐talk between glioblastoma stem cells and macrophages and promotes glioblastoma multiform progression synergistically
Authors: Huang Shilu , Liu Liang , Xu Zhipeng , Liu Xinglei , Wu Anyi , Zhang Xiaopei , Li Zengyang , Li Suwen , Li Yongdong , Yuan Jiaqi , Cheng Shan , Li Haoran , Dong Jun
Published: June 2023

Aim

Exosomal miRNAs derived from glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) are important mediators of immunosuppressive microenvironment formation in glioblastoma multiform (GBM), especially in M2‐like polarization of tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs). However, the exact mechanisms by which GSCs‐derived exosomes (GSCs‐exo) facilitate the remodeling of the immunosuppressive microenvironment of GBM have not been elucidated.

Methods

Transmission electron microscopy (TME) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) were applied to verify the existence of GSCs‐derived exosomes. Sphere formation assays, flow cytometry, and tumor xenograft transplantation assays were performed to identify the exact roles of exosomal miR‐6733‐5p. Then, the mechanisms of miR‐6733‐5p and its downstream target gene regulating crosstalk between GSCs cells and M2 macrophages were further investigated.

Results

GSCs‐derived exosomal miR‐6733‐5p induce macrophage M2 polarization of TAMs by positively targeting IGF2BP3 to activate the AKT signaling pathway, which further facilitates the self‐renewal and stemness of GSCs.

Conclusion

GSCs secrete miR‐6733‐5p‐rich exosomes to induce M2‐like polarization of macrophages, as well as enhance GSCs stemness and promote malignant behaviors of GBM through IGF2BP3 activated AKT pathway. Targeting GSCs exosomal miR‐6733‐5p may provide a potential new strategy against GBM.
Differences in survival prognosticators between children and adults with H3K27M‐mutant diffuse midline glioma
Authors: Gong Xuan , Kuang Shuwen , Deng Dongfeng , Wu Jun , Zhang Longbo , Liu Chao
Published: June 2023

Aims

H3K27M‐mutant diffuse midline glioma (DMG) is a rare and aggressive central nervous system tumor. The biological behavior, clinicopathological characteristics, and prognostic factors of DMG have not yet been completely uncovered, especially in adult patients. This study aims to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics and identify prognostic factors of H3K27M‐mutant DMG in pediatric and adult patients, respectively.

Methods

A total of 171 patients with H3K27M‐mutant DMG were included in the study. The clinicopathological characteristics of the patients were analyzed and stratified based on age. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to determine the independent prognostic factors in pediatric and adult subgroups.

Results

The median overall survival (OS) for the entire cohort was 9.0 months. Significant differences were found in some clinicopathological characteristics between children and adults. The median OS was also significantly different between the pediatric and adult subgroups, with 7.1 months for children and 12.3 months for adults (p < 0.001). In the overall population, the multivariate analysis identified adult patients, single lesion, concurrent chemoradiotherapy/radiotherapy, and intact ATRX expression as independent favorable prognostic factors. In the age‐stratified subgroups, the prognostic factors varied between children and adults, with intact ATRX expression and single lesion being independent favorable prognostic factors in adults, while infratentorial localization was significantly associated with worse prognosis in children.

Conclusions

The differences in clinicopathological features and prognostic factors between pediatric and adult patients with H3K27M‐mutant DMG suggest the need for further clinical and molecular stratification based on age.
A spatiotemporal gene expression and cell atlases of the developing rat ovary
Authors: Shi Yong , Guo Yanjie , Zhou Jiayi , Cui Guanshen , Cheng Jung‐Chien , Wu Ying , Zhao Yong‐Liang , Fang Lanlan , Han Xiao , Yang Yun‐Gui , Sun Yingpu
Published: June 2023

Normal ovarian development is necessary for the production of healthy oocytes. However, the characteristics of oocytes development at different stages and the regulatory relationship between oocytes and somatic cells remain to be fully explained. Here, we combined scRNA‐seq and spatial transcriptomic sequencing to profile the transcriptomic atlas of developing ovarian of the rat. We identified four components from developing granulosa cells including cumulus, primitive, mural, and luteal cells, and constructed their differential transcriptional regulatory networks. Several novel growth signals from oocytes to cumulus cells were identified, such as JAG1‐NOTCH2 and FGF9‐FGFR2. Moreover, we observed three cumulus sequential phases during follicle development determined by the key transcriptional factors in each cumulus phase (Bckaf1, Gata6, Cebpb, etc.), as well as the potential pinpointed roles of macrophages in luteal regression. Altogether, the single‐cell spatial transcriptomic profile of the ovary provides not only a new research dimension for temporal and spatial analysis of ovary development, but also valuable data resources and a research basis for in‐depth excavation of the mechanisms of mammalian ovary development.
Endothelial Stat3 activation promotes osteoarthritis development
Authors: Li Jiadong , Zhang Wencai , Liu Xinru , Li Guangfeng , Gu Yuyuan , Zhang Kun , Shen Fuming , Wu Xiang , Jiang Yingying , Zhang Qin , Zhou Fengjin , Xu Ke , Su Jiacan
Published: June 2023

The mechanism of the balance between subchondral angiogenesis and articular damage within osteoarthritis (OA) progression remains a mystery. However, the lack of specific drugs leads to limited clinical treatment options for OA, frequently failing to prevent eventual joint destruction in patients. Increasing evidence suggests that subchondral bone angiogenesis precedes cartilage injury, while proliferating endothelial cells (ECs) induce abnormal bone formation. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) is triggered by multiple cytokines in the OA microenvironment. Here, we observed elevated Stat3 activation in subchondral bone H‐type vessels. Endothelial Stat3 activation will lead to stronger cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis by simulating ECs in OA. In contrast, either Stat3 activation inhibition or knockdown of Stat3 expression could relieve such alterations. More interestingly, blocking Stat3 in ECs alleviated angiogenesis‐mediated osteogenic differentiation and chondrocyte lesions. Stat3 inhibitor reversed surgically induced subchondral bone H‐type vessel hyperplasia in vivo, significantly downregulating vessel volume and vessel number. Due to the reduced angiogenesis, subchondral bone deterioration and cartilage loss were alleviated. Overall, our data suggest that endothelial Stat3 activation is an essential trigger for OA development. Therefore, targeted Stat3 blockade is a novel promising therapeutic regimen for OA.
Gel immersion endoscopic mucosal resection for intussuscepted small bowel polyp in a patient with Peutz–Jeghers syndrome
Authors: Kawaguchi Daiki , Takada Kazunori , Hotta Kinichi
Published: June 2023

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Small interference (RNAi) technique: Exploring its clinical applications, benefits and limitations
Authors: Redhwan Moqbel Ali Moqbel , M.G. Hariprasad , Samaddar Suman , Hard Sumaia Abdulbari Ahmed Ali , Yadav Vidyabhushan , Mukherjee Apurbo , Kumar Rahul
Published: June 2023

Background

Small interference RNA (siRNA) has emerged as the most desired method for researchers and clinicians who wish to silence a specific gene of interest and has been extensively developed as a therapeutic agent. This review points to collecting all clinical trials on siRNA and understanding its benefits, pharmacokinetics and safety by reading articles published in the last 5 years.

Materials and Methods

Searching in the PubMed database using ‘siRNA’ and ‘in vivo’ with limits to articles published in the previous 5 years, article type ‘clinical trials’ and language ‘English’ to acquire papers on in vivo studies on siRNA approaches. Features of siRNA clinical trials registered at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ were analysed.

Results

So far, 55 clinical studies have been published on siRNA. Many published clinical trials on siRNA showed tolerability, safety and effectiveness in treating cancers like breast, lung, colon, and other organs and other diseases like viral infections and hereditary diseases. Many different routes of administration can silence many genes at the same time. Limitations and uncertainties associated with siRNA treatment include the effectiveness of cellular uptake, precise targeting of the intended tissue or cell and prompt elimination from the body.

Conclusions

The siRNA or RNAi method will be one of the most critical and influential techniques to fight against many different diseases. Although the RNAi approach has certain advantages, it also has limitations concerning clinical applications. Overcoming these limitations remains a daunting challenge.
Central nervous system tumours among users of vaginal oestradiol tablets: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Pourhadi Nelsan , Meaidi Amani , Friis Søren , Torp‐Pedersen Christian , Mørch Lina S.
Published: June 2023

Background and purpose

It is currently unknown whether vaginal oestradiol is associated with development of meningioma and glioma. The aim of this study was to examine associations between cumulative use and treatment intensity of vaginally administered oestradiol tablets and incidence of meningioma and glioma in a nationwide, population‐based study.

Methods

We conducted a nested case–control study within a nationwide cohort of Danish women followed from 2000 to 2018. The cohort consisted of 590,676 women aged 50–60 years at study start, without prior cancer diagnosis or use of systemic hormone therapy. Information on cumulative dose, duration, and intensity of vaginal oestradiol tablet use was assessed from filled prescriptions. Conditional logistic regression provided adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for the association between vaginal oestradiol use and diagnosis of meningioma or glioma.

Results

We identified 1108 women with meningioma and 835 with glioma. Of these, 19.8% and 14.0% used vaginal oestradiol tablets, respectively. The HRs in those with ever‐use of vaginal oestradiol tablets was 1.14 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.97–1.34) for meningioma and 0.90 (95% CI 0.73–1.11) for glioma. The corresponding HRs for new users exclusively were 1.18 (95% CI 0.99–1.40) for meningioma and 0.89 (95% CI 0.71–1.13) for glioma. Intensity of vaginal oestradiol tablet use according to duration and user status yielded slightly elevated HRs for meningioma without an apparent dose–response pattern, while the HRs for glioma were generally below unity. Among new users, the HR with high intensity of current or recent vaginal oestradiol tablet use for 2+ years was 1.66 (95% CI 1.09–2.55) for meningioma and 0.77 (95% CI 0.41–1.44) for glioma.

Conclusion

Use of vaginal oestradiol tablets was associated with a slightly increased incidence of meningioma but not of glioma. Owing to the observational nature of the study, residual bias cannot be ruled out.
Three to four mRNA COVID‐19 vaccines in multiple sclerosis patients on immunosuppressive drugs: Seroconversion and variant neutralization
Authors: Louapre Céline , Belin Lisa , Marot Stéphane , Hippolyte Amandine , Januel Edouard , Ibrahim Michella , Jeantin Lina , Zafilaza Karen , Malet Isabelle , Charbonnier‐Beaupel Fanny , Rosenzwajg Michelle , Soulié Cathia , Marcelin Anne‐Geneviève , Pourcher Valérie
Published: June 2023

Background and purpose

An enhanced severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccine regimen could improve humoral vaccine response in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated by anti‐CD20. The aim was to evaluate the serological response and the neutralizing activity after BNT162b2 primary and booster vaccination in MS patients, including patients on anti‐CD20 receiving a primary vaccine regimen enhanced with three injections.

Methods

In this prospective longitudinal cohort study of 90 patients (47 on anti‐CD20, 10 on fingolimod, 33 on natalizumab, dimethylfumarate or teriflunomide), anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor binding domain (RBD) immunoglobulin G antibodies were quantified and their neutralization capacity was evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (GenScript) and a virus neutralization test against B.1 historical strain, Delta and Omicron variants, before and after three to four BNT162b2 injections.

Results

After the primary vaccination scheme, the anti‐RBD positivity rate was strongly decreased in patients on anti‐CD20 (28% [15%; 44%] after two shots, 45% [29%; 62%] after three shots) and fingolimod (50% [16%; 84%]) compared to other treatments (100% [90%; 100%]). Neutralization activity was also decreased in patients on anti‐CD20 and fingolimod, and notably low for the Omicron variant in all patients (0%–22%). Delayed booster vaccination was performed in 54 patients, leading to a mild increase of anti‐RBD seropositivity in patients on anti‐CD20 although it was still lower compared to other treatments (65% [43%; 84%] vs. 100% [87%; 100%] respectively). After a booster, Omicron neutralization activity remained low on anti‐CD20 and fingolimod treated patients but was strongly increased in patients on other treatments (91% [72%; 99%]).

Discussion

In MS patients on anti‐CD20, an enhanced primary vaccination scheme moderately increased anti‐RBD seropositivity and anti‐RBD antibody titre, but neutralization activity remained modest even after a fourth booster injection.

Trial registration information

COVIVAC‐ID, NCT04844489, first patient included on 20 April 2021.
The reasonable citizen: A model for bridging ethics and politics in the EU
Authors: Mangini Michele
Published: June 2023

The ethical‐political model of the EU needs normative rethinking after the pandemic. Using Dworkin's ‘thesis of continuity’ between ethics and politics, I argue that a strong model of the citizen, called on to exercise duties and civic virtues, is badly needed by the EU. The legitimacy of EU political institutions is not enough, if we want to promote the participation of citizens to their functioning. The basic point is that of arguing in favour of the model of ‘the reasonable citizen’, aimed to overcome the dominant liberal model of ‘citizenship as rights’. This is shown by the ‘European Social Model’, but its weaknesses need to be supplemented by a republican conception. In order for the reasonable citizen not to be just an abstract ideal, some measure of operationalisation is proposed through ‘progressively increasing constellations of common identities’; these rely on and respect the multiple demoi of the EU.
Topical N‐phosphonacetyl‐l‐aspartate is a dual action candidate for treating non‐melanoma skin cancer
Authors: Mahen Kala K. , Markley Lilian , Bogart Jolie , Klatka Hope , Krishna Vijay , Maytin Edward V. , Stark George R. , McDonald Christine
Published: June 2023

Each year, 3.3 million Americans are diagnosed with non‐melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) and an additional 40 million individuals undergo treatment of precancerous actinic keratosis lesions. The most effective treatments of NMSC (surgical excision and Mohs surgery) are invasive, expensive and require specialised training. More readily accessible topical therapies currently are 5‐fluorouracil (a chemotherapeutic agent) and imiquimod (an immune modulator), but these can have significant side effects which limit their efficacy. Therefore, more effective and accessible treatments are needed for non‐melanoma cancers and precancers. Our previous work demonstrated that the small molecule N‐phosphonacetyl‐L‐aspartate (PALA) both inhibits pyrimidine nucleotide synthesis and activates pattern recognition receptor nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain 2. We propose that topical application of PALA would be an effective NMSC therapy, by combining the chemotherapeutic and immune modulatory features of 5‐fluorouracil and imiquimod. Daily topical application of PALA to mouse skin was well tolerated and resulted in less irritation, fewer histopathological changes, and less inflammation than caused by either 5‐fluorouracil or imiquimod. In an ultraviolet light‐induced NMSC mouse model, topical PALA treatment substantially reduced the numbers, areas and grades of tumours, compared to vehicle controls. This anti‐neoplastic activity was associated with increased expression of the antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin and increased recruitment of CD8+ T cells and F4/80+ macrophages to the tumours, demonstrating both immunomodulatory and anti‐proliferative effects. These findings indicate that topical PALA is an excellent candidate as an effective alternative to current standard‐of‐care NMSC therapies.
Effect of L‐T and S‐T orientations on fatigue crack growth in an aluminum 7050‐T7451 plate
Authors: Borges Micael F. , Antunes Fernando V. , Jesus Joel , Branco Ricardo , Prates Pedro , Neto Diogo M.
Published: June 2023

This study is focused on the anisotropic fatigue crack growth (FCG) behavior of an aluminum AA7050‐T7451 plate. L‐T and S‐T orientations were studied in M(T) samples with W = 50 mm, in mode I loading, with R‐ratio of +0.05. A numerical approach was used, assuming that crack tip plastic strain is the crack driving force. A purely kinematic elastic–plastic model was calibrated using experimental data from low cycle fatigue tests of smooth specimens in L and S orientations. The predicted FCG rates agree well with experimental trends in the Paris' regime, suggesting that cyclic plastic deformation is the main damage mechanism. The numerical model was used to estimate the stress ratio effect for both orientations, which was found to be linked with crack closure variations. However, the closure free predicted trends for both microstructural orientations at R = 0.05 are not overlapped, suggesting an effect of microstructure not linked to crack closure.
Interactions between intradialytic central venous oxygen saturation, relative blood volume, and all‐cause mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients
Authors: Preciado Priscila , Rosales Merlo Laura , Zhang Hanjie , Kooman Jeroen P. , van der Sande Frank M. , Kotanko Peter
Published: June 2023

Introduction

In maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients, low central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2) and small decline in relative blood volume (RBV) have been associated with adverse outcomes. Here we explore the joint association between ScvO2 and RBV change in relation to all‐cause mortality.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study in maintenance HD patients with central venous catheters as vascular access. During a 6‐month baseline period, Crit‐Line (Fresenius Medical Care, Waltham, MA) was used to measure continuously intradialytic ScvO2 and hematocrit‐based RBV. We defined four groups per median change of RBV and median ScvO2. Patients with ScvO2 above median and RBV change below median were defined as reference. Follow‐up period was 3 years. We constructed Cox proportional hazards model with adjustment for age, diabetes, and dialysis vintage to assess the association between ScvO2 and RBV and all‐cause mortality during follow‐up.

Findings

Baseline comprised 5231 dialysis sessions in 216 patients. The median RBV change was −5.5% and median ScvO2 was 58.8%. During follow‐up, 44 patients (20.4%) died. In the adjusted model, all‐cause mortality was highest in patients with ScvO2 below median and RBV change above median (HR 6.32; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37–29.06), followed by patients with ScvO2 below median and RBV change below median (HR 5.04; 95% CI 1.14–22.35), and ScvO2 above median and RBV change above median (HR 4.52; 95% CI 0.95–21.36).

Discussion

Concurrent combined monitoring of intradialytic ScvO2 and RBV change may provide additional insights into a patient's circulatory status. Patients with low ScvO2 and small changes in RBV may represent a specifically vulnerable group of patients at particularly high risk for adverse outcomes, possibly related to poor cardiac reserve and fluid overload.
COVID‐19 in Western Australia: ‘The last straw’ and hopes for a ‘new normal’ for parents of children with long‐term conditions
Authors: Smith Stephanie , Tallon Mary , Smith James , Jones Lauren , Mörelius Evalotte
Published: June 2023

Background

Children with long‐term conditions are vulnerable due to the treatments required for their conditions. Since the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, Western Australians experienced restrictions that changed daily life activities but were able to return to some of their previous routines due to the restrictions.

Aim

The study explored the stress experiences of parents caring for children with long‐term conditions during COVID‐19 in Western Australia.

Design and Participants

The study was codesigned with a parent representative caring for children with long‐term conditions to ensure essential questions were targeted. Twelve parents of children with various long‐term conditions were recruited. Ten parents completed the qualitative proforma, and two parents were interviewed in November 2020. Interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were anonymised and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings

Two themes were produced: (1) ‘Keep my child safe’ describes the children's vulnerabilities due to their long‐term conditions, the adjustments parents' made to keep their children safe and the various consequences faced. (2) ‘COVID‐19's silver lining’ covers the positives of the COVID‐19 pandemic, including their children having fewer infections, the availability of telehealth appointments, relationship improvements and the parent's hopes for a new normal where behaviours prevent transmission of infectious (e.g., hand sanitising).

Conclusion

Western Australia provided a unique context for the COVID‐19 pandemic due to no transmission of the virus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 at the time of the study. The tend and befriend theory aids in explaining the parents' stress experiences, and the application highlights a unique aspect of this theory. Parents tended to their children during COVID‐19, but many could no longer rely on others for connection, support and respite, and became further isolated in attempting to protect their children due to COVID‐19 consequences. The findings highlight that some parents of children with long‐term conditions need specific attention during times of pandemics. Further review is recommended to support parents through the impact of COVID‐19 and similar crises.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study was codesigned with an experienced parent representative who was part of the research team and involved throughout the research process to ensure meaningful end‐user engagement and ensure essential questions and priorities were addressed.
THE COUNTED TIME: TECHNICAL TEMPORALITIES AND THEIR CHALLENGES TO HISTORY
Authors: SILVEIRA PEDRO TELLES DA
Published: June 2023

One of the main debates regarding historical representation within digital media concerns narrative, particularly the difficulty in articulating it. Digital technologies are usually presented as opposed to linear, written narratives, which is of consequence to historical writing. Despite the many merits of scholarly approaches that try to circumvent this difficulty, the lack of theoretical understanding of the categories implied in such discussions is noticeable. To counter this, this article addresses the relationship between time, technics, and narrative. I contend that the challenges of crafting narratives in digital media conceal a problem pertaining to the relationship between time and technics. Drawing on Paul Ricoeur's work on narrative, Jimena Canales's studies of the history of science, Wolfgang Ernst's and Yuk Hui's discussions of technical temporality, and Bernard Stiegler's understanding of the relationship between time and technics, I argue that it is the temporality imbued in the workings of technical objects (such as computers) that renders them averse to narrative. In making this argument, I employ the notion of “counted time” (in contrast to Ricoeur's “narrative time”) to denote a temporal mode that, despite its intersections with social, human temporality, is alien to narrative.
A novel scheelite‐type LiCaGd(WO4)3:Eu3+ red phosphors with prominent thermal stability and high quantum efficiency
Authors: Wang Dong , Guan Xufeng , Li Guifang
Published: June 2023

A series of LiCaGd(WO4)3: xEu3+ (0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) red phosphors with tetragonal scheelite structure were synthesized via the conventional solid‐state reaction. Their crystal structure, photoluminescence excitation (PLE), and photoluminescence (PL) spectra, thermal stability and quantum efficiency were investigated. The phosphors exhibit a typical red light upon 395 nm near ultraviolet excitation, and the strongest emission peak at 617 nm is dominated by the 5D0→7F2 transition of Eu3+ ions. The PL intensity of the phosphors gradually increases with the increase of Eu3+ doping concentration, and the concentration quenching phenomenon is hardly observed. The quantum efficiency and the color purity of the phosphor reach maximum values of about 94.2 and 96.6% at x = 1.0, respectively. More importantly, LiCaGd(WO4)3:xEu3+ phosphors have prominent thermal stability. The temperature‐dependent PL intensity of the phosphors at 423 K is only reduced to 89.1% of the PL intensity at 303 K, which is superior to that of commercial red phosphors Y2O3:Eu3+. Finally, LiCaGd(WO4)3:Eu3+ phosphor is packaged with near ultraviolet InGaN chips to fabricate white light emitting diodes, which has a low color temperature (CCT = 4622 K) and a high color rendering index (CRI= 89.6).
Retrospective analysis of patients with severe combined immunodeficiency and alternative diagnostic criteria: A 20‐year single centre experience
Authors: Korkmaz Sevim Busra , Karaselek Mehmet Ali , Aytekin Selma Erol , Tokgoz Huseyin , Reisli Ismail , Guner Sukru , Keles Sevgi
Published: June 2023

Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is an inborn errors of immunity (IEI) disorder characterized by impairment in the development and function of lymphocytes and could be fatal if not treated with hematopoietic stem cell transplant in the first 2 years of life. There are various diagnostic criteria for SCID among different primary immunodeficiency societies. We retrospectively evaluated clinical and laboratory findings of 59 patients followed up with the diagnosis of SCID at our clinic over the past 20 years in order to develop an algorithm that would help diagnosis of SCID for the countries where a high ratio of consanguineous marriage is present because these countries have not launched TREC assay in their newborn screening programs. The mean age at diagnosis was 5.80 ± 4.90 months, and the delay was 3.29 ± 3.99 months. The most common complaint and physical examination findings were cough (29.05%), eczematous rash (63%) and organomegaly (61%). ADA (17%), Artemis (14%), RAG1/2 (15%), MHC Class II (12%) and IL‐2R (12%) deficiencies were the most common genetic defects. Lymphopenia (87.5%) was the most frequent abnormal laboratory finding and below 3000/mm3 in 95% of the patients. The CD3+ T cell count was 300/mm3 and below in 83% of the patients. As a result, a combination of low lymphocyte count and CD3 lymphopenia for SCID diagnosis would be more reliable for countries with high rate of consanguineous marriage. Physicians should consider diagnosis of SCID in a patient presenting with severe infections and lymphocyte counts below 3000/mm3 under 2 years of age.
Potential modifications of the PLASMIC scoring system for predicting thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: Sometimes, less is more
Authors: Orhan Bedrettin , Özkocaman Vildan , Akdemir Çiğdem , Ersal Tuba , Pınar İbrahim Ethem , Yalçın Cumali , Candar Ömer , Çubukçu Sinem , Koca Tuba Güllü , Ambarcıoğlu Pınar , Ali Rıdvan , Özkalemkaş Fahir
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a life‐threatening occlusive disease of the microcirculation characterized by systemic platelet plugs, organ ischemia, deep thrombocytopenia, and fragmentation of erythrocytes. One of the widely used scoring system to determine the clinical probability of TTP is the PLASMIC scoring system. This study aimed to evaluate the contribution of PLASMIC score modifications to sensitivity and specificity in patients with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) undergoing plasma exchange with a prediagnosis of TTP at our center.

Materials and Methods

The data of patients who were hospitalized with a previous diagnosis of MAHA and TTP and underwent plasma exchange at Bursa Uludag University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Hematology between January 2000 and January 2022 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Overall, 33 patients (including 15 and 18 with and without TTP, respectively) were included in this study. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that the area under the curve (AUC) for the original PLASMIC score was 0.985 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.955–1.000), and AUC for the PLASMIC score without mean corpuscular volume (MCV) was 0.967 (95% CI: 0.910–1.000), which is close to the original AUC. With the removal of MCV from the scoring system, the sensitivity decreased from 100% to 93%, whereas the specificity increased from 33% to 78%.

Conclusions

Based on the results of this validation study, removing MCV from the PLASMIC score led to the categorization of eight non‐TTP cases in the low‐risk category, and this could avoid unnecessary plasma exchange. However, in our study increasing the specificity was at the expense of the sensitivity by missing one patient with this new scoring system without MCV. Further multicenter studies with large sample sizes are required owing to the fact that different parameters may be effective in TTP prediction among different populations.
A positive psychology intervention to foster economic integration of Syrian refugees in the Netherlands
Authors: Muller‐Dugic José , Beckers Pascal J. , Braakman Mario H.
Published: June 2023

Research shows that the labour market integration of refugees is often problematic. Little is known about what kind of measures are effective to help them integrate into the labour market. In the Netherlands, a positive psychology intervention “Mosaic” for Syrian refugees was developed to support their economic participation. This study aims to assess the effect of “Mosaic” on the economic participation and work‐related attitudes of Syrian refugees. “Mosaic” was implemented in six municipalities by conducting an RCT with a waiting list control group. The results show that in the short term, the intervention group realizes a significantly larger increase in hours spent on an internship as well as substantially larger gains in confidence to find work in the future. In the long term, the intervention group experiences larger confidence gains related to finding a job that fits their education and experience.
Nursing assistants' perceptions and experiences with the emotional impact of providing palliative care: A qualitative interview study in nursing homes
Authors: Dijxhoorn Anne‐Floor Q. , Heijnen Yanouk , van der Linden Yvette M. , Leget Carlo , Raijmakers Natasja J. H. , Brom Linda
Published: June 2023

Aim

To gain insight into the perceived emotional impact of providing palliative care among nursing assistants in Dutch nursing homes, their strategies in coping with this impact and associated needs.

Design

Exploratory qualitative study.

Methods

In 2022, 17 semistructured interviews with nursing assistants working in Dutch nursing homes were conducted. Participants were recruited via personal networks and social media. Interviews were open‐coded by three independent researchers following the thematic analysis approach.

Results

Three themes emerged regarding the elements that contribute to the emotional impact of providing palliative care in nursing homes: impactful situations (e.g. witnessing suffering and sudden deaths), interactions (e.g. close relationship and receiving gratitude) and reflection on provided care (e.g. feeling fulfilment or feeling inadequate in caring). Nursing assistants used different strategies to cope, including emotional processing activities, their attitude towards death and work and gaining experience. Participants experienced a need for more education in palliative care and organized peer group meetings.

Conclusion

Elements that play a role in how the emotional impact of providing palliative care is perceived by nursing assistants can have a positive or negative impact.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Nursing assistants should be better supported in coping with the emotional impact of providing palliative care.

Impact

In nursing homes, nursing assistants are most involved in providing daily care to residents and have a signalling role in recognizing the deteriorating conditions of residents. Despite their prominent role, little is known about the emotional impact of providing palliative care among these professionals. This study shows that although nursing assistants already undertake various activities to reduce the emotional impact, employers should be aware of the unmet needs in this area and the responsibility they have in this regard.

Reporting Method

The QOREQ checklist was used for reporting.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Migratory geese allow plants to disperse to cooler latitudes across the ocean
Authors: Lovas‐Kiss Ádám , Martín‐Vélez Víctor , Brides Kane , Wilkinson David M. , Griffin Larry R. , Green Andy J.
Published: June 2023

Aim

How plants can disperse in response to global change is a critical question, yet major knowledge gaps persist about long‐distance dispersal (LDD) mechanisms. We studied the potential a migratory waterfowl has for LDD of flowering plants via gut passage of seeds (endozoochory), comparing spring and autumn migration.

Location

United Kingdom and Iceland.

Taxon

Pink‐footed Goose (Anser brachyrhynchus, Baillon) and Angiosperma.

Methods

We studied endozoochory by Pink‐footed geese migrating within and between the UK and Iceland by faecal sampling and GPS tracking. We collected 614 faecal samples from 14 areas in the UK and one in Iceland. Using GPS tracks to and from these areas, we estimated how far seeds can be dispersed by Pink‐footed geese, and where to or from.

Results

We recorded 5507 intact seeds of 35 species (27 terrestrial) from 15 plant families, with lower seed abundance per dropping when birds were migrating northwards in the UK during spring than upon their arrival in autumn. Species richness of plant seeds was highest in Iceland and in autumn. Only four plant species dispersed had an “endozoochory syndrome”. GPS movements showed that seeds retained in guts for up to 24 h can be readily dispersed in both directions between the UK and Iceland, with maximum distances exceeding 2000 km, as well as between UK localities separated by 100 s of km. Movements northwards of ≤400 km were even recorded in autumn. While at stopover sites, daily movements between roost and feeding sites often exceed 20 km.

Main Conclusions

Pink‐footed geese are LDD vectors for plants previously assumed to lack an LDD mechanism. Spring migration is not the only period when geese move plants to cooler latitudes. The pink‐footed goose can allow terrestrial and aquatic plants to cross the ocean and to keep pace with climate change.
Long non‐coding ribonucleic acid zinc finger E‐box binding homeobox 1 antisense RNA 1 regulates myocardial fibrosis in diabetes through the Hippo–Yes‐associated protein signaling pathway
Authors: Wu Jing , Lyu Rui , Chen Shumin , Wang Xiaoguang
Published: June 2023

Aims/Introduction

Fibrosis is the principle reason for heart failure in diabetes. Regarding the involvement of long non‐coding ribonucleic acid zinc finger E‐box binding homeobox 1 antisense 1 (ZEB1‐AS1) in diabetic myocardial fibrosis, we explored its specific mechanism.

Materials and Methods

Human cardiac fibroblasts (HCF) were treated with high glucose (HG) and manipulated with plasmid cloning deoxyribonucleic acid 3.1‐ZEB1‐AS1/microribonucleic acid (miR)‐181c‐5p mimic/short hairpin RNA specific to sirtuin 1 (sh‐SIRT1). ZEB1‐AS1, miR‐181c‐5p expression patterns, cell viability, collagen I and III, α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), fibronectin levels and cell migration were assessed by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, cell counting kit‐8, western blot and scratch tests. Nuclear/cytosol fractionation assay verified ZEB1‐AS1 subcellular localization. The binding sites between ZEB1‐AS1 and miR‐181c‐5p, and between miR‐181c‐5p and SIRT1 were predicted and verified by Starbase and dual‐luciferase assays. The binding of SIRT1 to Yes‐associated protein (YAP) and YAP acetylation levels were detected by co‐immunoprecipitation. Diabetic mouse models were established. SIRT1, collagen I, collagen III, α‐SMA and fibronectin levels, mouse myocardium morphology and collagen deposition were determined by western blot, and hematoxylin–eosin and Masson trichrome staining.

Results

Zinc finger E‐box binding homeobox 1 antisense 1 was repressed in HG‐induced HCFs. ZEB1‐AS1 overexpression inhibited HG‐induced HCF excessive proliferation, migration and fibrosis, and diminished collagen I, collagen III, α‐SMA and fibronectin protein levels in cells. miR‐181c‐5p had targeted binding sites with ZEB1‐AS1 and SIRT1. SIRT1 silencing/miR‐181c‐5p overexpression abrogated ZEB1‐AS1‐inhibited HG‐induced HCF proliferation, migration and fibrosis. ZEB1‐AS1 suppressed HG‐induced HCF fibrosis through SIRT1‐mediated YAP deacetylation. ZEB1‐AS1 and SIRT1 were repressed in diabetic mice, and miR‐181c‐5p was promoted. ZEB1‐AS1 overexpression improved myocardial fibrosis in diabetic mice, and reduced collagen I, collagen III, α‐SMA and fibronectin protein levels in myocardial tissues.

Conclusion

Long non‐coding ribonucleic acid ZEB1‐AS1 alleviated myocardial fibrosis through the miR‐181c‐5p–SIRT1–YAP axis in diabetic mice.
Finding a meaning for pain: Definitions, sense‐making, and philosophical health
Authors: Djordjevic Charles M.
Published: June 2023

Pain has proven to be a refractory problem in US healthcare. This paper argues that starting to address this requires viewing pain‐assessment as a form of sense‐making that occurs between patients and providers. Section I argues that two standard definitions of ‘pain’ that are thought to subtend pain assessment are not viable. Section II proffers a very different way to think about the meaning of ‘pain’. Section III develops this novel account by pairing Rorty's account of hermeneutics with recent developments in the pain‐assessment literature. Finally, section four moves beyond Rorty by linking sense‐making to philosophical health. Should this prove persuasive, I will have shown an area in biomedicine where philosophy is not an ‘optional add on’, but a vitally important part of what should be clinical practice.
Active chitosan/gelatin‐based films and coatings containing eugenol and oregano essential oil for fresh cheese preservation
Authors: Reyes Méndez Laura María , Méndez Morales Paula Andrea , López‐Córdoba Alex , Ortega‐Toro Rodrigo , Gutiérrez Tomy J.
Published: June 2023

The use of active substance‐containing biodegradable and edible coatings has become a potentially viable alternative for food preservation, especially to retard oxidative processes and the growth of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms on the surface of the foodstuffs. In this context, the objective of this research was to develop and characterize gelatin (GL)/chitosan (CH)‐based active, biodegradable, and edible films and coatings containing eugenol (EU) and oregano (Origanum vulgare) essential oil (OEO) in different OEO:EU ratios, and obtained via casting for application in fresh cheese. More soluble, wetter, yellower, and opaque films than the control film system were obtained as a consequence of a higher OEO:EU ratio. Although, the water vapor barrier properties in OEO‐containing films were markedly enhanced with respect to control film system. All the films displayed a slight phase separation, but this was more noticeable when increasing the OEO:EU ratio. This could explain the higher moisture content and water solubility values as the OEO:EU ratio increased. The films containing EU and OEO showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The best film systems were selected and tested as coatings for the preservation of fresh cheese. In particular, the coating F4 (0.5% wt/wt of OEO + 0.5% wt/wt of EU) displayed the best conservation capacity of fresh cheese during 14 days of storage at 4°C. This predominantly through the reduction of the colony‐forming units of S. aureus, total coliforms, and mesophilic aerobic.

Practical applications

The addition of EU and OEO in CH/GL‐based coatings presented a synergistic effect in terms of their antimicrobial activity. These food packaging materials would be an alternative for the preservation of foods susceptible to contamination by pathogenic and/or spoilage microorganisms during storage. Besides, the addition of OEO improved particularly the barrier properties of active, biodegradable, and edible films, which allows their use as a protection mechanism for high‐moisture and medium‐moisture foods, such as fresh cheese. Overall, assessed coatings could increase the shelf life of fresh cheese in terms of food safety, but not its quality in terms of maintaining its freshness.
EBSD patterns simulating multilayer twins based on dynamical theory of electron diffraction
Authors: Li Xinglin , Li Xiangcheng , Wu Tao , Lv Chenglong , Cai Canying
Published: June 2023

Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) can be employed to determine crystal structures but has not been used alone to identify defects at the atom scale due to the lack of understanding of the EBSD patterns generated by various structure defects. In the present work, the EBSD patterns of FCC‐Fe with 9‐layer, 6‐layer and 3‐layer twin structures are simulated, respectively, using the revised real space (RRS) method and compared with the counterpart of perfect crystals. Our results show that when the electron beam is incident along a direction parallel to the twin plane, the pattern appears symmetrical with respect to the corresponding Kikuchi band of the twin plane, and the diffraction details within the Kikuchi band also exhibit symmetry with respect to the middle line of the Kikuchi band. Moreover, the overall clarity of the patterns decreases, and the pattern becomes more blurred with increasing the distance from the Kikuchi band corresponding to the twin plane. By contrast, the incident electron beam along the direction perpendicular to the twin plane results in diffraction superposition of the matrix region and the shear region, which shows twofold rotational symmetry with respect to the Kikuchi pole corresponding to the normal to the twin plane. In addition, some extra Kikuchi bands appear in the EBSD patterns due to the long‐period structures of the multilayer twins. As the number of multilayer twins decreases, the number of extra Kikuchi bands decreases and the area of the blurring pattern increases. The correlation between twin structures and EBSD patterns provides theoretical insights for identifying twin structures by the EBSD technique.
Follicular unit extraction megasession treatment of high‐grade androgenetic alopecia in Asians: Introducing novel principles for surgical design
Authors: Di Meihua , Liu Qian , Liu Chi , Zhu Siyuan , Jiang Bo , Wu Wei
Published: June 2023

Background

Male androgenetic alopecia (MAGA) has been one of the most common reasons for hair consultation, which affects more than half of men under the age of 50. Recently, follicular unit extraction (FUE) megasession has been an attractive treatment option for patients with severe AGA. However, compared with hair transplant surgery by traditional FUE or follicular unit transplantation (FUT), a megasession lacks a suitable surgical design solution for Asian high‐grade AGA patients. Therefore, we introduced novel principles for surgical design into FUE megasession for Asians.

Objective

The goal was to investigate the naturalness of hair, patient and doctor satisfaction level, and safety assessment of FUE megasession with the specific surgical design, to explore a novel technique for an efficient, satisfactory, and safe FUE megasession procedure.

Methods

Thirty‐six Asian male patients with AGA in Hamilton Grade V–VI were enrolled in the research. All participants underwent FUE megasession treatment with the specific surgical design. The investigators observed the patients' general conditions, surgical information, naturalness of hair, and patient and doctor satisfaction level and adverse reactions.

Results

Before surgery, the average age of patients was 36.8 ± 9.6 years, and average duration of disease was 8.3 ± 3.8 years. During surgery, we harvested an average of 3705 ± 383 grafts. Recipient density ranged from 30 FUs/cm2 to 50 FUs/cm2, and the total operation time was 10.6 ± 0.9 h. After surgery, patient‐rated Likert score for naturalness of hair was as high as 4.72, and the doctor rated 4.61. Patient satisfaction score was up to 4.64, and the doctor scored 4.75. No serious side effects occurred in the study.

Conclusion

FUE megasession with the introduced surgical design is a satisfactory treatment option for patients with high‐grade AGA in Asians, with few side effects. The application of the novel design method can effectively lead to relatively natural density and appearance in one operation. Due to its remarkable effect, high satisfaction level, and few postoperative complications, FUE megasession with the introduced surgical design has great potential for Asian high‐grade AGA patients.