bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Staphylococcus aureus and Associated Risk Factors in the Adamaoua and Far North Regions of Cameroon
Authors: Mohamadou Mansour , Essama Sarah Riwom , Akwah Lilian , Bamia Aline , Adamou Elie Velhima , Ngonde Marie Chantal , Mbakop Calixte , Bello Damdam Fadimatou , Ndoumwe Jacob , Yafowo Paul Djidere , Njapndounke Rosine , Kamga Hortense Gonsu
Published: February 2021

Background: Infections due to Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) have been recognized as an important public health problem worldwide. Resistant S. aureus strains emerged and its prevalence has been on the rise. Many risk factors were identified as comorbidities and impact seriously the health state of infected individual by resistant Staphylococcus aureus. We focus our study on two of these risk factors (HIV-infection and diabetes) which may constitute high potential health conditions for emergence of resistant S. aureus strains.   

Methods: A Cross sectional study was conducted during 19 months in five laboratories in the northern Cameroon. Collection of clinical samples from nine different types of specimens and first identifications were conducted in the various sites of study. Selected strains were transported in Yaoundé using standard procedure. Identification and drug susceptibility testing was performed using the disk diffusion method. Questionnaires were submitted to all the participants after an approved written and oral consent. HIV and Glycemia test were carried out on each patient in case their status was not known. During the study, 380 strains of Staphylococcus aureus were identified. Antimicrobial test was achieved using 16 different antibiotics.

Results: Result showed that 202/380 (53.2 %) of Staphylococcus aureus were resistant to at least three antibiotics (multiresistant) from three different families. Multiresistant strains displayed high resistance to cotrimoxal (76.7 %) followed by penicillin (66.8 %), tetracyclin (57.4 %) and oxacillin (51.5%). While high rate of sensitivity were obtained for rifampicin (78.7 %), fusidic acid (65.8 %), lincomycin (60.5 %) and minocyclin (58.9 %). Few participants 8.9 % were tested HIV positive and 7.9% were living with diabetes. Strains isolated from participants living with these diseases presented higher rate of resistance to antibiotics.

Conclusion: The rate of multiresistant Staphylococcus aureus are constantly in progress in northern Cameroon, most of the strains originated from community. These strains exhibited high resistance level to cotrimoxazol while displaying high sensitivity to rifampicine. People living with chronic diseases presented high resistance to antibiotic recommended for S. aureus infection treatment.
Assessment of Fungi Associated with Bakery Products in Port Harcourt Metropolis
Authors: Olufunmilayo Williams, Janet , Ibitein Douglas, Salome , Precious White, Sukariba
Published: February 2021

Bakery products such as bread, cakes, etc are staple foods consumed by both the poor and rich. Bread and other bakery products are subject to fungal contamination. This study is aimed at identifying the different fungi associated with bakery products in Port Harcourt metropolis, Nigeria. Sampling was done once monthly for three months, January to March for twenty-three (23) bakery products. Various bakery products were collected from different locations (Abacha Road, Ikwerre Road and Mile 3) in Port Harcourt Metropolis for enumeration, isolation and identification of different fungi that cause spoilage of the bakery products. In the month of January, bread samples had the following fungal counts: 2.0x106sfu/g, 1.0 x106sfu/g, 2.0x106sfu/g, 1.0x106sfu/g, 1.0x106sfu/g and 3.0x106sfu/g. The lowest count was 1.0 x106sfu/g and the highest count was 3.0 x106sfu/g with mean values of 1.07±1.00a and 2.5±0.55a, respectively. During the study, ten (10) different species of fungi were identified. The species are in eight (8) genera, Aspergillus (39.2%),  Fusarium(10.5%), Penicillum(5.7%), Mucor(13.4%), Eurotium (8.1%), Cladosporium (8.1%), Alternaria (3.3%), and Rhizopus (11.5%) species. Statistically, there was a significant difference comparing the growth of the organisms in Abacha Road (2.00±0.89a), Ikwerre Road (5.80±83b) and Mile 3 (4.03±1.23a). It was observed that Abacha Road had the lowest counts of the fungi. There was an increased count in Ikwerre Road as well as Mile 3 compared to Abacha Road. Therefore, Abacha Road < Ikwerre Road ≥ Mile 3 based on the analysis of variance.
Laparoscopic Completion Total Gastrectomy as a Standardized Procedure for Gastric Stump Cancer: A Case Control Study
Authors: Takahashi Tohru , Inaki Noriyuki , Saito Hiroshi , Sakimura Yusuke , Hayashi Kengo , Tsuji Toshikatsu , Yamamoto Daisuke , Kitamura Hirotaka , Kadoya Shinichi , Bando Hiroyuki
Published: February 2021

Objective

Complete gastrectomy for gastric stump cancer (GSC) can be challenging due to severe adhesions; therefore, advanced techniques are required when being performed by laparoscopic surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of laparoscopic completion total gastrectomy (LCTG) for the treatment of GSC.

Methods

Patient records from January 2010 to October 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were classified into 2 groups depending on whether they underwent open or laparoscopic gastrectomy. We compared patient characteristics; operative, clinical, and pathological data between the groups.

Results

Twenty open and 17 LCTGs were performed. Laparoscopic gastrectomy resulted in a significantly longer operation time (230 versus 182.5 min; P = 0.026), lower blood loss (14 versus 105 mL; P < 0.001), and shorter period to the first flatus passage (2 versus 3 days; P < 0.001) than open gastrectomy. No significant differences in the number of retrieved lymph nodes, duration of hospital stay, complication rate, and postoperative analgesic usage between the 2 groups were observed. No patients required conversion to open surgery in the laparoscopic-treatment group. Pathologic findings revealed that the laparoscopic group had a smaller tumor size (not pathologic T category) and fewer metastatic lymph nodes than the open group, leading to an earlier distribution of the pathologic stage in the laparoscopic group.

Conclusions

LCTG for the treatment of GSC was safely conducted with fewer complications and mortalities than previously reported results. Advanced technologies and sophistication of laparoscopic skills may further yield minimal invasiveness with better short-term outcome.
As políticas neoliberais na educação: da precarização do trabalho docente e da educação pública às resistências construídas
Authors: Sirmardi Neto Moacir
Published: February 2021

O artigo a seguir visa analisar os desdobramentos do neoliberalismo em seus aspectos político- educacionais, pedagógicos e jurídicos na educação pública, tendo como referência o estado de São Paulo durante a gestão do Partido Social Democrata Brasileiro (PSDB), partido que governa o estado há vinte e cinco anos e demonstra-se alinhado às diretrizes neoliberais. Averiguou-se que, ao lado da implementação de tais políticas, e da precarização que ela engendra nas condições de trabalho e qualidade educacional, lutas sociais e resistências no campo da educação foram constatadas em antítese à implantação do projeto neoliberal, o que pode indicar uma tendência para a próxima década. 
Out‐of‐field doses from radiotherapy using photon beams: A comparative study for a pediatric renal treatment
Authors: Colnot Julie , Zefkili Sofia , Gschwind Régine , Huet Christelle
Published: February 2021

Purpose

First, this experimental study aims at comparing out‐of‐field doses delivered by three radiotherapy techniques (3DCRT, VMAT (two different accelerators), and tomotherapy) for a pediatric renal treatment. Secondly, the accuracy of treatment planning systems (TPS) for out‐of‐field calculation is evaluated.

Methods

EBT3 films were positioned in pediatric phantoms (5 and 10 yr old). They were irradiated according to four plans: 3DCRT (Clinac 2100CS, Varian), VMAT (Clinac 2100CS and Halcyon, Varian), and tomotherapy for a same target volume. 3D dose determination was performed with an in‐house Matlab tool using linear interpolation of film measurements. 1D and 3D comparisons were made between techniques. Finally, measurements were compared to the Eclipse (Varian) and Tomotherapy (Accuray) TPS calculations.

Results

Advanced radiotherapy techniques (VMATs and tomotherapy) deliver higher out‐of‐field doses compared to 3DCRT due to increased beam‐on time triggered by intensity modulation. Differences increase with distance to target and reach a factor of 3 between VMAT and 3DCRT. Besides, tomotherapy delivers lower doses than VMAT: although tomotherapy beam‐on time is higher than in VMAT, the additional shielding of the Hi‐Art system reduces out‐of‐field doses. The latest generation Halcyon system proves to deliver lower peripheral doses than conventional accelerators. Regarding TPS calculation, tomotherapy proves to be suitable for out‐of‐field dose determination up to 30 cm from field edge whereas Eclipse (AAA and AXB) largely underestimates those doses.

Conclusion

This study shows that the high dose conformation allowed by advanced radiotherapy is done at the cost of higher peripheral doses. In the context of treatment‐related risk estimation, the consequence of this increase might be significative. Modern systems require adapted head shielding and a particular attention has to be taken regarding on‐board imaging dose. Finally, TPS advanced dose calculation algorithms do not certify dose accuracy beyond field edges, and thus, those doses are not suitable for risk assessment.
Improving risk‐stratification of natalizumab‐associated PML
Authors: Tugemann Bastian , Berger Joseph R.
Published: February 2021

Based on publicly available data, we reevaluated current algorithms for stratifying the risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in natalizumab‐treated patients with multiple sclerosis, and found that there are a number of issues. First and foremost, our analysis highlights the necessity of separate PML incidence assessments for the U.S. versus Europe, and indicates that the risk in John Cunningham virus (JCV) antibody‐negative patients may be higher than previously communicated. Additionally, we advocate introducing a low‐risk JCV index threshold of 0.45 for individuals with prior exposure to an immunosuppressant, and setting the low‐risk threshold at 0.6 instead of 0.9 for those without such pretherapies. On the other hand, the risk of PML on natalizumab, in general, appears to not only plateau but to actually decrease after about 5 years of continuous dosing.
Type I SMA “new natural history”: long‐term data in nusinersen‐treated patients
Authors: Pane Marika , Coratti Giorgia , Sansone Valeria A. , Messina Sonia , Catteruccia Michela , Bruno Claudio , Sframeli Maria , Albamonte Emilio , Pedemonte Marina , D’Amico Adele , Bravetti Chiara , Berti Beatrice , Palermo Concetta , Leone Daniela , Brigati Giorgia , Tacchetti Paola , Salmin Francesca , De Sanctis Roberto , Lucibello Simona , Pera Maria Carmela , Piastra Marco , Genovese Orazio , Bertini Enrico , Vita Gianluca , Tiziano Francesco Danilo , Mercuri Eugenio ,   the Italian EAP Working Group
Published: February 2021

Objective

The aim of this paper was to report the 2‐year follow‐up in type I patients treated with Nusinersen and to assess whether possible changes in motor function are related to the subtype, age, or SMN2 copy number.

Methods

Sixty‐eight patients, with ages ranging from 0.20 to 15.92 years (mean: 3.96; standard deviation: +3.90) were enrolled in the study. All patients were assessed using the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP INTEND) and the developmental section of the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE‐2) at the time they started treatment and 12 and 24 months after that.

Results

For both CHOP and HINE‐2 repeated measures analysis of variance showed a significant difference (P < 0.001) between baseline and 12 months, 12 months and 24 months, and baseline and 24‐month scores for the whole group. When age subgroups (<210 days, <2 years, 2–4 years, 5–11 years, 12–18 years) were considered, on the CHOP INTEND the difference was significant between baseline and 24 months in all age subgroups. On the HINE‐2, the difference between baseline and 24 months was significant in all the subgroups before the age of 4 years. Age was predictive of changes on both scales (P < 0.05), whereas SMN2 copy number and decimal classification were not.

Interpretation

Our results suggest that some improvement of motor function can be observed even after the first year of treatment. This is more obvious in the infants treated in the first 2 years but some improvement can also be found in older children.
Intrathecal dexamethasone therapy for febrile infection‐related epilepsy syndrome
Authors: Horino Asako , Kuki Ichiro , Inoue Takeshi , Nukui Megumi , Okazaki Shin , Kawawaki Hisashi , Togawa Masao , Amo Kiyoko , Ishikawa Junichi , Ujiro Atsushi , Shiomi Masashi , Sakuma Hiroshi
Published: February 2021

Objective

Increasing reports suggest a role for immunological mechanisms in febrile infection‐related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES). The objective of this study was to elucidate the efficacy and safety of intrathecal dexamethasone therapy (IT‐DEX).

Methods

We assessed six pediatric patients with FIRES who were administered add‐on IT‐DEX in the acute (n = 5) and chronic (n = 1) phases. We evaluated clinical courses and prognosis. We measured cytokines/chemokines in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from FIRES patients at several points, including pre‐ and post‐IT‐DEX, and compared them with control patients with chronic epilepsy (n = 12, for cytokines/chemokines) or with noninflammatory neurological disease (NIND, n = 13, for neopterin).

Results

Anesthesia was weaned after a median of 5.5 days from IT‐DEX initiation (n = 6). There was a positive correlation between the duration from the disease onset to the introduction of IT‐DEX and the length of ICU stay and the duration of mechanical ventilation. No patient experienced severe adverse events. Seizure spreading and background activities on electroencephalography were improved after IT‐DEX in all patients. The levels of CXCL10, CXCL9, IFN‐γ, and neopterin at pre‐IT‐DEX were significantly elevated compared to levels in epilepsy controls, and CXCL10 and neopterin were significantly decreased post‐IT‐DEX, but were still higher compared to patients with chronic epilepsy. IL‐6, IL‐8, and IL‐1β were significantly elevated before IT‐DEX compared to epilepsy controls, though there was no significant decrease post‐treatment.

Interpretation

IT‐DEX represents a therapeutic option for patients with FIRES that could shorten the duration of the critical stage of the disease. The effect of IT‐DEX on FIRES might include cytokine‐independent mechanisms.
Human Leukocyte Antigen Class II associations in late‐onset Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Spagni Gregorio , Todi Laura , Monte Gabriele , Valentini Mariagrazia , Di Sante Gabriele , Damato Valentina , Marino Mariapaola , Evoli Amelia , Lantieri Francesca , Provenzano Carlo
Published: February 2021

Objective

Genetic factors predisposing to late‐onset myasthenia gravis (LOMG) have not been clearly defined yet. However, genome‐wide association studies identified Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Class II alleles as a hotspot in this disease subtype. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlations of HLA Class II alleles with clinical data and titin antibodies in this patient subgroup.

Methods

This study consecutively enrolled anti‐acetylcholine receptor antibody‐positive, non‐thymoma patients with generalized LOMG. All patients were of Italian ancestry. HLA‐DRB1 and ‐DQB1 genotyping and serum titin antibody testing were performed in this population.

Results

A total of 107 patients (females: 28/107, 26.2%; median age of onset: 68 years, range: 50‐92) were included. We found a positive association with HLA‐DRB1*07 (P = 1.1 × 10‐5), HLA‐DRB1*14 (P = 0.0251) and HLA‐DQB1*02 (P = 0.0095). HLA‐DRB1*03, HLA‐DRB1*11, and HLA‐DQB1*03 were protective alleles (P = 7.9 × 10‐5, P = 0.0104, and P = 0.0067, respectively). By conditional haplotype analysis, HLA‐DRB1*07‐DQB1*02 was found to be the major risk haplotype (OR = 4.10; 95% C.I.: 2.80‐5.99; P = 6.01 × 10‐11). The mean age at onset was 73.4 years in DRB1*07 homozygotes, 69.7 years in heterozygotes, and 66.6 in non‐carriers (P = 0.0488). DRB1*07 carriers and non‐carriers did not differ in disease severity and response to therapy. Titin antibodies were detected in 61.4% of the cases, having no association with HLA alleles or specific clinical characteristics.

Interpretation

In our study, we identified the HLA DRB1*07‐DQB1*02 haplotype as a predisposing factor for the development of generalized LOMG in the Italian population.
Powering Implantable and Ingestible Electronics
Authors: Yang So‐Yoon , Sencadas Vitor , You Siheng Sean , Jia Neil Zi‐Xun , Srinivasan Shriya Sruthi , Huang Hen‐Wei , Ahmed Abdelsalam Elrefaey , Liang Jia Ying , Traverso Giovanni
Published: February 2021

Implantable and ingestible biomedical electronic devices can be useful tools for detecting physiological and pathophysiological signals, and providing treatments that cannot be done externally. However, one major challenge in the development of these devices is the limited lifetime of their power sources. The state‐of‐the‐art of powering technologies for implantable and ingestible electronics is reviewed here. The structure and power requirements of implantable and ingestible biomedical electronics are described to guide the development of powering technologies. These powering technologies include novel batteries that can be used as both power sources and for energy storage, devices that can harvest energy from the human body, and devices that can receive and operate with energy transferred from exogenous sources. Furthermore, potential sources of mechanical, chemical, and electromagnetic energy present around common target locations of implantable and ingestible electronics are thoroughly analyzed; energy harvesting and transfer methods befitting each energy source are also discussed. Developing power sources that are safe, compact, and have high volumetric energy densities is essential for realizing long‐term in‐body biomedical electronics and for enabling a new era of personalized healthcare.
Bright‐Multicolor, Highly Efficient, and Addressable Phosphorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Fibers: Toward Wearable Textile Information Displays
Authors: Hwang Yong Ha , Kwon Seonil , Shin Jeong Bin , Kim Hyuncheol , Son Young Hyun , Lee Ho Seung , Noh Byeongju , Nam Minwoo , Choi Kyung Cheol
Published: February 2021

Fiber‐based light‐emitting devices, which can be directly integrated into daily clothes, have emerged as a next‐generation display form factor that can provide informational hyper‐connections between humans and devices. However, although various approaches have provided advanced wearability, challenges remain for visualizing information, such as high power consumption resulting from high driving voltage and low current efficiency (CE), limited brightness making information difficult to recognize, and lack of addressability for displaying information. Here, a novel fiber‐based textile display that can surmount those challenges by successfully introducing phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (phOLEDs) based on a dip‐coating method and an addressable structure on cylinder‐shaped fiber is reported. The fiber phOLEDs exhibit unprecedented optoelectronic performance, including brightness, CE, and driving voltages comparable to those of conventional glass‐based OLEDs. Particularly, they show the highest CE values of 16.3, 60.7, and 16.9 cd A–1 for red, green, and blue, respectively, among results reported thus far. Also, the fiber phOLEDs with an addressable structure implementing independent pixels can be operated by the matrix‐addressable scheme. Based on unique deformability which is confirmed by flexibility tests, the performance capabilities, and addressability, letter information can be successfully visualized on daily clothes, demonstrating the potential for realizing truly wearable textile displays.
Bimodal Plasmonic Color Filters Enable Direct Optical Imaging of Ion Implantation in Thin Films
Authors: Sadatnajafi Catherine , Balaur Eugeniu , Abbey Brian
Published: February 2021

Optical metamaterials offer precise control over the properties and interactions of light at the nanoscale, attracting interest in many new fields of research including chemical and molecular sensing, magnetic antennas, and photovoltaic elements. By utilizing the phenomenon of extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) plasmonic devices enable the detection of minute changes in the local, near‐surface, dielectric properties of materials, opening up a wide range of different applications. Characterization of the optoelectronic properties of ultra‐thin films is of paramount importance for a wide range of electronic applications including integrated circuit production. However, it is often extremely difficult to achieve using conventional imaging techniques. Here, it is demonstrated that plasmonic color filters can be used for the direct optical imaging and characterization of ion implantation in thin films. A model system consisting of variable doses of gallium ions implanted within titanium oxide thin films is used. It is observed that the ion implantation dose leads to a variation in the measured plasmon resonance spectra, which can be further enhanced through the use of bimodal nanopixel arrays. Using Monte Carlo simulations and the Maxwell‐Garnett relation, the observed plasmon resonance spectra in terms of the gallium ion implantation dose is quantitatively interpreted.
Intramolecular‐Locked High Efficiency Ultrapure Violet‐Blue (CIE‐y <0.046) Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Emitters Exhibiting Amplified Spontaneous Emission
Authors: Khan Aziz , Tang Xun , Zhong Cheng , Wang Qiang , Yang Sheng‐Yi , Kong Fan‐Cheng , Yuan Shuai , Sandanayaka Atula S. D. , Adachi Chihaya , Jiang Zuo‐Quan , Liao Liang‐Sheng
Published: February 2021

Rational manipulation of frontier orbital distribution and singlet‐triplet splitting is crucial to exploit the luminescent properties of organic molecules. To realize ultra‐blue luminescence, both blue‐shifted wavelength peak (λpeak) and narrow full‐width at half‐maximum (FWHM) are required. Herein, a new thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) skeleton by inserting the diphenyl methylene intramolecular‐lock to adjust the torsion angles and restrict the intramolecular relaxation is developed. Two rigid emitters, incorporating phenoxazine (PXZN‐B) and acridine (DMACN‐B) as donors and mesitylboron as an acceptor, exhibit narrow FWHMs (<50 nm) with deep‐blue (0.133, 0.147) and violet‐blue emission (0.151, 0.045), respectively. In particular, the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of a DMACN‐B‐based device closely approach the Rec.2020 standard (0.131, 0.046). Moreover, both of the organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) based on PXZN‐B and DMACN‐B show TADF character, with high external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) exceeding 10%. Furthermore, owing to the large orbital overlap, these TADF emitters own a fast S1–S0 transition rate exceeding 108 s–1, thereby exhibiting marked amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) with low thresholds. Therefore, the intramolecular‐lock strategy provides not only innovation for realizing high‐efficiency deep‐blue TADF emission with high color purity but also an avenue for a TADF‐based ASE and lasing application.
Muscle Fibers Inspired High‐Performance Piezoelectric Textiles for Wearable Physiological Monitoring
Authors: Su Yuanjie , Chen Chunxu , Pan Hong , Yang Ye , Chen Guorui , Zhao Xun , Li Weixiong , Gong Qichen , Xie Guangzhong , Zhou Yihao , Zhang Songlin , Tai Huiling , Jiang Yadong , Chen Jun
Published: February 2021

The next‐generation wearable biosensors with highly biocompatible, stretchable, and robust features are expected to enable the change of the current reactive and disease‐centric healthcare system to a personalized model with a focus on disease prevention and health promotion. Herein, a muscle‐fiber‐inspired nonwoven piezoelectric textile with tunable mechanical properties for wearable physiological monitoring is developed. To mimic the muscle fibers, polydopamine (PDA) is dispersed into the electrospun barium titanate/polyvinylidene fluoride (BTO/PVDF) nanofibers to enhance the interfacial‐adhesion, mechanical strength, and piezoelectric properties. Such improvements are both experimentally observed via mechanical characterization and theoretically verified by the phase‐field simulation. Taking the PDA@BTO/PVDF nanofibers as the building blocks, a nonwoven light‐weight piezoelectric textile is fabricated, which hold an outstanding sensitivity (3.95 V N−1) and long‐term stability (<3% decline after 7,400 cycles). The piezoelectric textile demonstrates multiple potential applications, including pulse wave measurement, human motion monitoring, and active voice recognition. By creatively mimicking the muscle fibers, this work paves a cost‐effective way to develop high‐performance and self‐powered wearable bioelectronics for personalized healthcare.
Selective Release of Different Neurotransmitters Emulated by a p–i–n Junction Synaptic Transistor for Environment‐Responsive Action Control
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Guo Kexin , Sun Lin , Ni Yao , Liu Lu , Xu Wenlong , Yang Lu , Xu Wentao
Published: February 2021

The design of the first p–i–n junction synaptic transistor (JST) based on n‐type TiO2 film covered with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and with a p‐type P3HT/PEO nanowire (NW) on top. Except for basic synaptic functions that can be realized by a single neurotransmitter, the electronic device emulates the multiplexed neurotransmission of different neurotransmissions, i.e., glutamate and acetylcholine, for fast switching between short‐ and long‐term plasticity (STP and LTP). This is realized by the special p–i–n junction with hole transport in the p‐type P3HT NW to form STP, and electron transport in the n‐type TiO2 layer and trapped under the PMMA inversion layer to form LTP. Altering the external input induces changes of the polarity of the charge carriers in the conductive channel, promoting fast switching between STP and LTP modes. When stimulated using two parallel inputs, the response of PMMA/TiO2 emulates the synergistic effect of taste and aroma on the control of food‐intake in the brain. Because of the bipolarity, the p–i–n JST has excellent reconfigurability, which importantly is attributed to simulate the plasticity of synapses and to mimic how distinct types of gustatory receptor neurons respond to different concentrations of salt. The electronic device lays the technical foundation for the realization of the future complex artificial neural networks.
Encapsulating Sn(OH)4 Nanoparticles in Micropores of Mesocarbon Microbeads: A New Anode Material for High‐Performance Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zhou Juncheng , Sun Xiaoxuan , Luo Birong , Li Dejun , Gu Xingxing , Zhao Yang
Published: February 2021

A novel Sn(OH)4/mesocarbon microbeads (MCMB) anode material has been successfully prepared by skillfully encapsulating the Sn(OH)4 nanoparticles into the micropores of MCMB via a simple vapor deposition approach. The electrochemical results demonstrate that the Sn(OH)4/MCMB anode exhibits a high reversible capacity of 904 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g−1, which is far higher than that of the SnO2/MCMB (501 mAh g−1) and Sn/MCMB (364 mAh g−1). Such transcendence can be attributed to the ultrasmall sizes of Sn(OH)4 nanoparticles and rapid lithium ions transport channels provided by micropores on the surface of MCMB. More importantly, the encapsulated Sn(OH)4 particles inside the micropores decrease the exposure to the electrolyte to ensure the formation of stable solid electrolyte interphase films as well as accommodating electrode expansion during charge–discharge, which is beneficial to achieve a stable cycling performance. Therefore, the unique nanostructures of Sn(OH)4/MCMB ensure it becomes a novel promising anode material for the high‐performance lithium ion batteries.
Stretchable, Fully Polymeric Electrode Arrays for Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Cuttaz Estelle A. , Chapman Christopher A. R. , Syed Omaer , Goding Josef A. , Green Rylie A.
Published: February 2021

There is a critical need to transition research level flexible polymer bioelectronics toward the clinic by demonstrating both reliability in fabrication and stable device performance. Conductive elastomers (CEs) are composites of conductive polymers in elastomeric matrices that provide both flexibility and enhanced electrochemical properties compared to conventional metallic electrodes. This work focuses on the development of nerve cuff devices and the assessment of the device functionality at each development stage, from CE material to fully polymeric electrode arrays. Two device types are fabricated by laser machining of a thick and thin CE sheet variant on an insulative polydimethylsiloxane substrate and lamination into tubing to produce pre‐curled cuffs. Device performance and stability following sterilization and mechanical loading are compared to a state‐of‐the‐art stretchable metallic nerve cuff. The CE cuffs are found to be electrically and mechanically stable with improved charge transfer properties compared to the commercial cuff. All devices are applied to an ex vivo whole sciatic nerve and shown to be functional, with the CE cuffs demonstrating superior charge transfer and electrochemical safety in the biological environment.
Essential updates 2019/2020: Perioperative and surgical management of gastric cancer
Authors: Irino Tomoyuki , Matsuda Satoru , Wada Norihito , Kawakubo Hirofumi , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: February 2021

Perioperative and surgical management of gastric cancer have been changing as pivotal phase II trials and landmark phase III trials offer new insights to the existing knowledge. The results of many landmark trials have been published or presented in the past year, many of which have changed or will change current clinical practice. For example, FLOT4 has completely changed the regimen of perioperative chemotherapy in Europe. Furthermore, evidence for minimally invasive surgery for clinical Stage I was firmly established by KLASS‐01 and JCOG0912 for distal gastrectomy and CLASS‐02, KLASS‐03, and JCOG1401 for total gastrectomy. Moreover, promising results were provided by CLASS‐01 and KLASS‐02 for locally advanced gastric cancer. For adjuvant chemotherapy, JACCRO GC‐07 (START‐2) has provided a new doublet regimen for pathological Stage III, which is often refractory to chemotherapy. Conversely, JCOG0501 poses a significant challenge for advanced tumors, such as large type 3 and scirrhous (type 4) tumors. In this review, we briefly review recent updates and discuss future perspectives of gastric cancer treatment.
A modified physiological strain index for workplace‐based assessment of heat strain experienced by agricultural workers
Authors: Mac Valerie V. , Elon Lisa , Smith Daniel J. , Tovar‐Aguilar Antonio , Economos Eugenia , Flocks Joan , Hertzberg Vicki , McCauley Linda
Published: February 2021

Background

As global temperatures rise, increasing numbers of individuals will work in hot environments. Interventions to protect their health are critical, as are reliable methods to measure the physiological strain experienced from heat exposure. The physiological strain index (PSI) is a measure of heat strain that relies on heart rate and core temperature but is challenging to calculate in a real‐world occupational setting.

Methods

We modified the PSI for use in field settings where resting temperature and heart rate are not available and used the modified physiological strain index (mPSI) to describe risk factors for high heat strain (mPSI ≥ 7) experienced by agricultural workers in Florida during the summers of 2015 through 2017. mPSI was calculated for 221 workers, yielding 465 days of data.

Results

A higher heat index (β = 0.185; 95% CI: 0.064, 0.307) and higher levels of physical activity at work (0.033; 95% CI: 0.017, 0.050) were associated with a higher maximum mPSI. More years worked in US agriculture (−0.041; 95% CI: −0.061, −0.020) were protective against a higher maximum mPSI. Out of 23 workdays that a participant experienced a maximum mPSI ≥ 7, 22 were also classified as strained by at least one other measure of high heat strain (core temperature [Tc] >38.5°C, sustained heart rate >(180 − age), and mean heart rate > 115 bpm).

Conclusions

This study provides critical information on risk factors for elevated heat strain for agricultural workers and suggests a practical approach for using PSI in field‐based settings.
The point‐of‐care use of a facial phenotyping tool in the genetics clinic: Enhancing diagnosis and education with machine learning
Authors: Marwaha Ashish , Chitayat David , Meyn M. Stephen , Mendoza‐Londono Roberto , Chad Lauren
Published: February 2021

Computer‐assisted pattern recognition platforms, such as Face2Gene® (F2G), can facilitate the diagnosis of children with rare genetic syndromes by comparing a patient's features to known genetic diagnoses. Our work designed, implemented, and evaluated an innovative model of care in clinical genetics in a heterogeneous and multicultural patient population that utilized this facial phenotyping software at the point‐of‐care. We assessed the performance of F2G by comparing the suggested diagnoses to the patient's confirmed molecular diagnosis. Providers' overall experiences with the technology and trainees' educational experiences were assessed with questionnaires. We achieved an overall diagnostic yield of 57%. This increased to 82% when cases diagnosed with syndromes not recognized by F2G were removed. The mean rank of a confirmed diagnosis in the top 10 was 2.3 (CI 1.5–3.2) and the mean gestalt score 37.6%. The most commonly suggested diagnoses were Noonan syndrome, mucopolysaccharidosis, and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Our qualitative assessment revealed that clinicians and trainees saw value using the tool in practice. Overall, this work helped to implement an innovative patient care delivery model in clinical genetics that utilizes a facial phenotyping tool at the point‐of‐care. Our data suggest that F2G has utility in the genetics clinic as a clinical decision support tool in diverse populations, with a majority of patients having their eventual diagnosis listed in the top 10 suggested syndromes based on a photograph alone. It shows promise for further integration into clinical care and medical education, and we advocate for its continued use, adoption and refinement along with transparent and accountable industrial partnerships.
Neurodevelopmental disorder in an Egyptian family with a biallelic ALKBH8 variant
Authors: Saad Ahmed K. , Marafi Dana , Mitani Tadahiro , Du Haowei , Rafat Karima , Fatih Jawid M. , Jhangiani Shalini N. , Coban‐Akdemir Zeynep ,   Baylor‐Hopkins Center for Mendelian Genomics, Gibbs Richard A. , Pehlivan Davut , Hunter Jill V. , Posey Jennifer E. , Zaki Maha S. , Lupski James R.
Published: February 2021

Alkylated DNA repair protein AlkB homolog 8 (ALKBH8) is a member of the AlkB family of dioxygenases. ALKBH8 is a methyltransferase of the highly variable wobble nucleoside position in the anticodon loop of tRNA and thus plays a critical role in tRNA modification by preserving codon recognition and preventing errors in amino acid incorporation during translation. Moreover, its activity catalyzes uridine modifications that are proposed to be critical for accurate protein translation. Previously, two distinct homozygous truncating variants in the final exon of ALKBH8 were described in two unrelated large Saudi Arabian kindreds with intellectual developmental disorder and autosomal recessive 71 (MRT71) syndrome (MIM# 618504). Here, we report a third family—of Egyptian descent—harboring a novel homozygous frame‐shift variant in the last exon of ALKBH8. Two affected siblings in this family exhibit global developmental delay and intellectual disability as shared characteristic features of MRT71 syndrome, and we further characterize their observed dysmorphic features and brain MRI findings. This description of a third family with a truncating ALKBH8 variant from a distinct population broadens the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of MRT71 syndrome, affirms that perturbations in tRNA biogenesis can contribute to neurogenetic disease traits, and firmly establishes ALKBH8 as a novel neurodevelopmental disease gene.
Fragile X syndrome full mutation in cognitively normal male identified as part of an Australian reproductive carrier screening program
Authors: Jarmolowicz Anna I. , Baker Emma K. , Bartlett Essra , Francis David , Ling Ling , Gamage Dinusha , Delatycki Martin B. , Godler David E.
Published: February 2021

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is caused by CGG expansions of ≥200 repeats (full mutation: FM). Typically, FM causes abnormal methylation of the FMR1 promoter and silencing of FMR1, leading to reduction of FMRP, a protein essential for normal neurodevelopment. However, if unmethylated, these alleles cause over‐expression of FMR1 mRNA which has been associated with Fragile X Tremor and Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS), a late onset disorder. This report details the molecular and clinical profile of an asymptomatic male (29 years) identified as a result of cascade testing who was found to have a rare unmethylated FM (UFM) allele, as well as premutation (PM: 55–199 CGG) size alleles in multiple tissues. Full‐scale IQ was within the normal range and minimal features of autism were observed. Southern blot analysis identified FM smears in blood (220–380 CGG) and saliva (212–378 CGG). A PM of 159 CGG was identified in blood and saliva. FMR1 promoter methylation analysis showed all alleles to be unmethylated. FMR1 mRNA levels were greater than fivefold of median levels in typically developing controls and males with FXS mosaic for PM and FM alleles. Issues raised during genetic counseling related to risk for FXTAS associated with UFM and elevated FMR1 mRNA levels, as well as, reproductive options, with implications for future practice.
Total body and regional surface area: Quantification with low‐cost three‐dimensional optical imaging systems
Authors: Dechenaud Marcelline E. , Kennedy Samantha , Sobhiyeh Sima , Shepherd John , Heymsfield Steven B.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Body surface area (SA) is a widely used physical measure incorporated into multiple thermophysiology and evolutionary biology models currently estimated in humans either with empirical prediction equations or costly whole‐body laser imaging systems. The introduction of low‐cost 3D scanners provides a new opportunity to quantify total body (TB) and regional SA, although a critical question prevails: can these devices acquire the quality of depth information and process this initial data to form a mesh that has the fidelity needed to generate accurate SA estimates?

Materials and methods

This question was answered by comparing SA estimates calculated using images from four commercial 3D scanners in 108 adults to corresponding estimates acquired with a whole‐body laser system. This was accomplished by processing initial mesh data from all devices, including the laser system, with the same universal software adapted specifically for repairing mesh gaps, identifying landmarks, and generating SA measurements.

Results

TB SA measured on all four 3D scanners was highly correlated with corresponding laser system estimates (R2s, 0.98–0.99; all p < 0.001) with some small but significant mean differences (−0.19 to 0.06 m2); root‐mean square errors (RMSEs) were small (0.02–0.03 m2); and significant bias was present for one device. Qualitatively similar results (e.g., R2s, 0.78–0.95; mean Δs, −0.05 to 0.02 m2; RMSEs, 0.01–0.03 m2) were present for trunk, arm, and leg SA comparisons.

Discussion

The current study observations demonstrate that low‐cost and practical 3D optical scanners are capable of accurately quantifying TB and regional SA, thus opening new opportunities for evaluating human phenotypes and related physiological characteristics.
Inflammatory Cytokine Patterns Associated with Neurological Diseases in Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Espíndola Otávio M. , Gomes Yago C. P. , Brandão Carlos Otávio , Torres Rafael C. , Siqueira Marilda , Soares Cristiane N. , Lima Marco Antonio S. D. , Leite Ana Claudia C. B. , Venturotti Carolina O. , Carvalho Ana Julia C. , Torezani Guilherme , Araujo Abelardo Q. C. , Silva Marcus Tulius T.
Published: February 2021

Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) can present with distinct neurological manifestations. This study shows that inflammatory neurological diseases were associated with increased levels of interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐12, chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 8 (CXCL8), and CXCL10 in the cerebrospinal fluid. Conversely, encephalopathy was associated with high serum levels of IL‐6, CXCL8, and active tumor growth factor β1. Inflammatory syndromes of the central nervous system in COVID‐19 can appear early, as a parainfectious process without significant systemic involvement, or without direct evidence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 neuroinvasion. At the same time, encephalopathy is mainly influenced by peripheral events, including inflammatory cytokines. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:1041–1045
Sulfur in Amorphous Silica for an Advanced Room‐Temperature Sodium–Sulfur Battery
Authors: Zhou Jiahui , Yang Yue , Zhang Yingchao , Duan Shuaikang , Zhou Xia , Sun Wei , Xu Shengming
Published: February 2021

The room‐temperature (RT) Na/S battery is a promising energy storage system owing to suitable operating temperature, high theoretical energy density, and low cost. However, it has a poor cycle life and low reversible capacity. In this work, we report a long‐life RT‐Na/S battery with amorphous porous silica as a sulfur host. The sulfur is loaded into amorphous silica by a dipping method; the optimal sulfur loading is up to 73.48 wt %. Molecular dynamics simulation and first‐principles calculations suggest that the complex pores, acting as micro‐containers and the formation of Na‐O chemical bonds between amorphous silica and sodium polysulfide, give the electrodes a strong ability to inhibit sodium polysulfide shuttle. This would give rise to effectively avoiding the loss of active sulfur, corresponding to a superior capacity and an excellent cyclability even at 10 A gsulfur−1 (nearly 100 % coulomb efficiency and high reversible capacity of 955.8 mAh gsulfur−1 after 1460 cycles).
Enantioselective Synthesis of Cyclic Nitrones by Chemoselective Intramolecular Allylic Alkylation of Oximes
Authors: Sandmeier Tobias , Carreira Erick M.
Published: February 2021

The enantio‐ and chemoselective iridium‐catalyzed N‐allylation of oximes is described for the first time. Intramolecular kinetic resolution provides access to cyclic nitrones and enantioenriched aliphatic allylic alcohols. Salient features of this transformation are its ability to employ E/Z‐isomeric mixtures of oxime starting materials convergently and high functional group tolerance. The implementation of N‐allylation/1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction sequences furnishes tricyclic isoxazolidines in highly enantio‐ and diastereoselective fashion. The synthetic utility of the approach is demonstrated by the efficient, formal synthesis of the marine natural product (+)‐halichlorine.
Divergent, Strain‐Release Reactions of Azabicyclo[1.1.0]butyl Carbinols: Semipinacol or Spiroepoxy Azetidine Formation
Authors: Gregson Charlotte H. U. , Noble Adam , Aggarwal Varinder K.
Published: February 2021

The azetidine moiety is a privileged motif in medicinal chemistry and new methods that access them efficiently are highly sought after. Towards this goal, we have found that azabicyclo[1.1.0]butyl carbinols, readily obtained from the highly strained azabicyclo[1.1.0]butane (ABB), can undergo divergent strain‐release reactions upon N‐activation. Treatment with trifluoroacetic anhydride or triflic anhydride triggered a semipinacol rearrangement to give keto 1,3,3‐substituted azetidines. More than 20 examples were explored, enabling us to evaluate selectivity and the migratory aptitude of different groups. Alternatively, treatment of the same alcohols with benzyl chloroformate in the presence of NaI led to iodohydrin intermediates which gave spiroepoxy azetidines upon treatment with base. The electronic nature of the activating agent dictates which pathway operates.
In vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity and antimetastatic properties of novel arene ruthenium(II)‐tetrazolato compounds on human cancer cell lines
Authors: Vyas Komal M. , Sharma Deepu , Magani Sri Krishna Jayadev , Mobin Shaikh M. , Mukhopadhyay Suman
Published: February 2021

Two new arene ruthenium(II) complexes with chemical formula [Ru2(η6‐p‐cymene)2(μ‐L1)(μ‐Cl)Cl2][Ru]‐1and [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(L2)Cl2][Ru]‐2(L1 =5‐phenyl‐2H‐tetrazole andL2= 2‐(2H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)pyridine) were synthesized by the reaction of [{(η6‐p‐cymene)RuCl2}2] with two bidentate ligands L1 and L2. Both the complexes were structurally characterized using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and other analytical techniques. The X‐ray crystal structures of both the complexes revealed the coordination of tetrazolate ligands to two Ru(II) centres in bridging mode in[Ru]‐1, whereas one Ru(II) centre in[Ru]‐2in chelating fashion, with overall pseudo‐octahedral geometry. The resulted complexes were screened for their cytotoxic activity against three different cancer cell lines, HCT116 (colon cancer), HepG2 (liver cancer) and MCF7 (breast cancer) under in vitro conditions. Interestingly,[Ru]‐1showed much higher cytotoxicity with respect to[Ru]‐2against all the screened cancer cell lines and even better than cisplatin. For exploring the mechanism of action of[Ru]‐1, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential and gene expression profiling of apoptosis related genes (Bcl2, caspase‐3 and caspase‐9) were also evaluated. The cancerous cells treated with[Ru]‐1showed an increase in intracellular ROS levels, disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, up‐regulation of proapoptotic caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 and down‐regulation of antiapoptotic Bcl2. The results concluded that[Ru]‐1induced apoptosis through oxidative stress mediated activation of intrinsic pathway by generating intracellular ROS, loss of MMP and alteration of expression of apoptosis related genes. In addition, antimetastatic activity of[Ru]‐1was observed by wound healing assay showing anti‐migratory property. The dual properties, antimetastatic activity and high cytotoxicity make[Ru]‐1potent platform for the development of new anticancer agents.