bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder resources for educators: A scoping review
Authors: Lees Briana , Riches Julia , Mewton Louise , Elliott Elizabeth J. , Allsop Steve , Newton Nicola , Thomas Sue , Rice Lauren J. , Nepal Smriti , Teesson Maree , Stapinski Lexine A.
Published: January 2022

Children with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) can experience neurodevelopmental, physical, psychological and behavioural impairments that can result in a disrupted school experience. However, educators often have limited knowledge or experience in the identification and support of students with FASD, and there is a critical need for effective tools and resources to ensure students with FASD are supported in their ongoing learning and development. This scoping review aimed to identify and evaluate publicly available educator resources that aid in the identification, and support of students with FASD in primary/elementary school. In addition, educators and FASD experts were consulted to obtain feedback on currently available resources, and key issues and priorities for FASD resources. In total, 124 resources were identified by searching peer‐reviewed and grey literature databases, app stores, podcast services and contacting FASD experts. Information was found on identification (23 resources) and support of students with FASD (119 resources). No resources provided information on the referral. Most resources were average (40%) to good (33%) quality, as measured by a composite tool based on adaptions of the NHMRC FORM Framework and iCAHE Guideline Quality Checklist. A minority of resources had been formally evaluated (7%). Review findings and consultations with experts and educators indicate a critical need for referral guides, evidence‐based short‐format resources and centralised access for school communities to high‐quality resources. Taken together, this study has identified key areas for future resource development and research to better support primary school students with FASD.
Significance of the lncRNAs MALAT1 and ANRIL in occurrence and development of glaucoma
Authors: Huang Guoqiang , Liang Dong , Luo Lidan , Lan Chenghong , Luo Chengfeng , Xu Hongwang , Lai Jiangfeng
Published: January 2022

Background

Primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) is the commonest form of glaucoma which is estimated to cause bilaterally blind within 11.1 million people by 2020. Therefore, the primary objectives of this study were to investigate the clinical significance of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the lncRNAs MALAT1 and ANRIL in a Chinese Han POAG cohort.

Methods

Three hundred and forty‐six glaucoma patients and 263 healthy controls were recruited, and totally 14 SNPs in MALAT1 and ANRIL were genotyped between the two populations.

Results

The MALAT1 SNPs rs619586 (A>G), rs3200401 (C>T), and rs664589 (C>G) were associated with POAG risk, and the ANRIL SNPs rs2383207 (A>G), rs564398 (A>G), rs2157719 (A>G), rs7865618 (G>A), and rs4977574 (A>G) were associated with POAG (p < 0.05). The MALAT1 haplotypes ACG and ATC, comprised rs619586, rs3200401, and rs664589, increased POAG risk, and the ANRIL haplotype AAGAA, made up of rs2383207, rs7865618, rs4977574, rs564398, and rs2157719, show a significantly increased risk of POAG. In addition, rs619586 (A>G) of MALAT1 and rs564398/rs2157719 of ANRIL were associated with a smaller vertical cup‐to‐disc ratio, while rs619586 of MALAT1 and rs2383207/rs4977574 of ANRIL were associated with higher intraocular pressure in the POAG population.

Conclusion

Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms and haplotypes in ANRIL and MALAT1 were associated with POAG onset in our study population, which provide more possibilities to POAG diagnosis and treatment.
Immunomodulatory potential of natural products from herbal medicines as immune checkpoints inhibitors: Helping to fight against cancer via multiple targets
Authors: Zhong Zhangfeng , Vong Chi Teng , Chen Feiyu , Tan Horyue , Zhang Cheng , Wang Ning , Cui Liao , Wang Yitao , Feng Yibin
Published: January 2022

Immunotherapy sheds new light to cancer treatment and is satisfied by cancer patients. However, immunotoxicity, single‐source antibodies, and single‐targeting stratege are potential challenges to the success of cancer immunotherapy. A huge number of promising lead compounds for cancer treatment are of natural origin from herbal medicines. The application of natural products from herbal medicines that have immunomodulatory properties could alter the landscape of immunotherapy drastically. The present study summarizes current medication for cancer immunotherapy and discusses the potential chemicals from herbal medicines as immune checkpoint inhibitors that have a broad range of immunomodulatory effects. Therefore, this review provides valuable insights into the efficacy and mechanism of actions of cancer immunotherapies, including natural products and combined treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors, which could confer an improved clinical outcome for cancer treatment.
Chinese nurses' self‐expression media image during COVID‐19 pandemic: A qualitative media image analysis
Authors: Cao Huili , Chen Yangjie , He Xingyue , Song Yejun , Wang Qiaohong , Yang Hui
Published: January 2022

Aim

To explore and describe nurses' self‐expression media image during COVID‐19 pandemic in China.

Background

Nurses play an important role in COVID‐19 pandemic. Although nurses were widely reported by the media, which included praise for nurses and nursing work, the researches on how nurses expressed their self‐images were limited.

Design

Qualitative media analysis.

Methods

Qualitative media analysis was conducted from January to April 2020, the researchers collected images and texts of 16 Chinese nurses who take care of COVID‐19 patients. These images and texts were published on WeChat Moments by themselves. After analysed each image and text, researchers identified the denotative and connotative elements in each image and summarized each image in narrative way.

Findings

This study analysed 219 pictures and 15 short videos of 16 nurses' self‐expression in WeChat moments. In this study, the media image self‐expression of nurses were mostly positive. The images expressed by nurses in this study included care image; hero image; soldier image; female image; hope image and team image. Nurses rarely showed negative images in the media; The negative nurses image were expressed in hidden way, which included exhausted nurses image and fragile nurses image. Moreover, the nurse self‐expression media image emphasized the nursing professionalism, but less showed the nursing connotation.

Conclusions

The positive media image self‐expression of nurses should be encouraged. Nurse Managers should pay attention to the deficiency of nursing image expression and guide nurses to show the essence and connotation of nursing.
Probing protein nanopores with poly(ethylene glycol)s
Authors: Liu Wenxing , Nestorovich Ekaterina M.
Published: January 2022

Neutral water‐soluble poly(ethylene glycol)s (PEGs) have been extensively explored in protein nanopore research for the past several decades. The principal use of PEGs is to investigate the membrane protein ion channel physical characteristics and transport properties. In addition, protein nanopores are used to study polymer–protein interactions and polymer physicochemical properties. In this review, we focus on the biophysical studies on probing protein ion channels with PEGs, specifically on nanopore sizing by PEG partitioning. We discuss the fluctuation analysis of ion channel currents in response to the PEGs moving within their confined geometries. The advantages, limitations, and recent developments of the approach are also addressed.
Tools and techniques for solution‐phase structural understanding of SmI2–additive complexes
Authors: Maity Sandeepan
Published: January 2022

SmI2 is a versatile reducing agent for organic synthesis. Additive‐induced tailoring of reaction mechanisms and products is one of the most promising aspects of this multifaceted reagent. In most instances, additives form a coordination complex with SmI2. Insight on the solution‐phase structure of SmI2 in the presence of additives is significant to decipher possible reaction mechanisms and predict reactivity of SmI2 in the presence of an entirely new additive. A series of experimental and computational tools are used to unravel the solution‐phase structure of SmI2–additive complex. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how different analytic tools are employed, and data are analyzed to arrive at a possible solution‐phase structure of SmI2–additive complex. Understanding of SmI2–additive solution‐phase structure in predicting SmI2 reactivity and plausible reaction mechanism is also discussed.
Quantitative systems pharmacology model for Alzheimer’s disease to predict the effect of aducanumab on brain amyloid
Authors: Lin Lin , Hua Fei , Salinas Cristian , Young Carissa , Bussiere Thierry , Apgar Joshua F. , Burke John M. , Kandadi Muralidharan Kumar , Rajagovindan Rajasimhan , Nestorov Ivan
Published: January 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that impairs memory and cognitive function. Dysregulation of the amyloid‐β (Aβ) pathway and amyloid plaque accumulation in the brain are hallmarks of AD. Aducanumab is a human, immunoglobulin gamma 1 monoclonal antibody targeting aggregated forms of Aβ. In phase Ib and phase III studies, aducanumab reduced Aβ plaques in a dose dependent manner, as measured by standard uptake value ratio of amyloid positron emission tomography imaging. The goal of this work was to develop a quantitative systems pharmacology model describing the production, aggregation, clearance, and transport of Aβ as well as the mechanism of action for the drug to understand the relationship between aducanumab dosing regimens and changes of different Aβ species, particularly plaques in the brain. The model was used to better understand the pharmacodynamic effects observed in the clinical trials of aducanumab and assist in the clinical development of future Aβ therapies.
A simple CO2 equilibration method for measuring blood oxygen isotope compositions
Authors: Green Daniel R. , Olack Gerard , Tütken Thomas , Leichliter Jennifer , Winkler Daniela E. , Clauss Marcus , Vonhof Hubert , Colman Albert S.
Published: January 2022

Rationale

Blood water oxygen isotope compositions can provide valuable insights into physiological processes and ecological patterns. While blood samples are commonly drawn for medical or scientific purposes, blood fractions are infrequently measured for oxygen isotopic compositions (δ18O) because such measurements are time consuming and expensive.

Methods

We sampled blood from sheep, goats, and iguanas raised in field and animal laboratories into serum, EDTA, heparin, and uncoated plastic vials commonly used in medical and scientific research, then separated red blood cell (RBC) and plasma or serum blood fractions. These were injected into helium‐flushed Exetainer tubes where they naturally outgassed endogenous CO2 (goat blood), or into He‐ and CO2‐flushed tubes (iguana blood). The CO2 gas was sampled on a GasBench II system, and δ18O was measured by an isotope ratio mass spectrometer (IRMS).

Results

Repeated δ18O measurements were stable over multiple days. The addition of desiccated blood solids to water standards had little impact on their δ18O measurements, suggesting that organic molecular constituents within blood serum and plasma do not interfere with blood water δ18O values. We observed slight but statistically significant δ18O offsets between plasma, serum and RBC fractions. Mass‐dependent body water turnover times for iguanas were derived from the data.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that a simple blood‐CO2 equilibration method using the GasBench can quickly, reliably and accurately characterize water δ18O in the plasma, RBC, and whole blood fractions of mammalian and reptilian blood samples (precision ≤ 0.1‰). This method will expand the application of blood stable isotope analysis in physiological and medical research.
Multicomponent incompressible fluids—An asymptotic study
Authors: Bothe Dieter , Dreyer Wolfgang , Druet Pierre‐Etienne
Published: January 2022

This paper investigates the asymptotic behavior of the Helmholtz free energy of mixtures at small compressibility. We start from a general representation for the local free energy that is valid in stable subregions of the phase diagram. On the basis of this representation we classify the admissible data to construct a thermodynamically consistent constitutive model. We then analyze the incompressible limit, where the molar volume becomes independent of pressure. Here we are confronted with two problems:

Our study shows that the physical system at hand cannot remain incompressible for arbitrary large deviations from a reference pressure unless its volume is linear in the composition.

As a consequence of the 2 law of thermodynamics, the incompressible limit implies that the molar volume becomes independent of temperature as well. Most applications, however, reveal the non‐appropriateness of this property.

According to our mathematical treatment, the free energy as a function of temperature and partial masses tends to a limit in the sense of epi– or Gamma–convergence. In the context of the first problem, we study the mixing of two fluids to compare the linearity with experimental observations. The second problem will be treated by considering the asymptotic behavior of both a general inequality relating thermal expansion and compressibility and a PDE‐system relying on the equations of balance for partial masses, momentum and the internal energy.
E-Scooter‑, E-Bike- und Fahrradverletzungen im gleichen Zeitraum – eine prospektive Vergleichsstudie eines Level-1-Traumazentrums
Authors: Meyer Heinz-Lothar , Kauther Max Daniel , Polan Christina , Abel Benedikt , Vogel Carsten , Mester Bastian , Burggraf Manuel , Dudda Marcel
Published: January 2022

Hintergrund

Die tatsächliche Anzahl verunglückter E‑Scooter-Fahrer in Deutschland scheint deutlich höher zu sein, als es die aktuellen Zahlen des Statistischen Bundesamtes vermuten lassen. Diese epidemiologische Studie untersucht E‑Scooter-Verletzungen und vergleicht diese mit E‑Bike- und Fahrradverletzungen.

Fragestellung

Zur Schaffung einer vergleichbaren Datenlage über die Gefahren von E‑Scootern, E‑Bikes und Fahrrädern wurden die typischen Verletzungsmuster analysiert und daraus Präventionsmöglichkeiten abgeleitet.

Material und Methode

Es wurden alle Patienten, die sich nach Unfällen mit Beteiligung von E‑Scootern, E‑Bikes und Fahrrädern über die universitäre Notaufnahme eines Level-1-Traumazentrums im Zeitraum vom 15. Juni 2019 bis 31. Oktober 2020 vorstellten, prospektiv untersucht.

Ergebnisse

Es wurden 68 verunglückte E‑Scooter-Fahrer erfasst. Davon waren signifikant mehr männlich als weiblich (p = 0,032). Das mittlere Alter betrug 31,1 (±13) Jahre, und lediglich 11,8 % (n = 8) der Unfälle wurden polizeilich registriert. Im gleichen Zeitraum wurden 34 verunglückte E‑Bike- und 356 Fahrradfahrer erfasst. In allen 3 Gruppen waren die meisten Verletzungen im Kopfbereich, gefolgt von Verletzungen an den oberen Extremitäten. Signifikant mehr E‑Scooter-Fahrer hatten einen ISS ≥ 16 als in der Gruppe der verunglückten Fahrradfahrer (p = 0,016). Verunglückte E‑Scooter-Fahrer hatten eine signifikant längere Krankenhausverweildauer (KHVD) als E‑Bike-Fahrer (p = 0,003) und als Fahrradfahrer (p = 0,001). Einen Helm trugen 52,9 % (n = 18) der E‑Bike- und 53,3 % (n = 113) der Fahrradfahrer, dagegen nur 1,5 % (n = 1) der E‑Scooter-Fahrer. Die häufigste Unfallursache bei E‑Bike- (17,7 %; n = 6) und Fahrradfahrern (10,4 %; n = 37) war das Wegrutschen auf Straßenbahnschienen, bei E‑Scooter-Fahrern die Kollision mit einem Bordstein (7,4 %; n = 5).

Diskussion

Die 3 untersuchten Patientenkollektive zeigten differierende Verletzungsursachen und -profile. Als Ursachen für einen erhöhten Anteil von Schwerverletzten im Vergleich zu Fahrradfahrern sind die Elektromobilität, Fahren unter Alkoholeinfluss und das unzureichende Tragen eines Helms bei E‑Scootern bei Dominanz von Kopfverletzungen zu nennen. Da 73,5 % (n = 50) der erfassten E‑Scooter-Unfälle nicht polizeilich registriert wurden, ist von einer sehr viel höheren Anzahl von E‑Scooter-Unfällen auszugehen als bisher angenommen. Präventive Maßnahmen könnten die Einführung einer Helmpflicht, eine höhere Anzahl von Verkehrskontrollen, Fahrsicherheitstrainings und der Ausbau von Fahrradwegen sein.
Schnittbilddiagnostik im InEK‑Benchmark
Authors: Wienicke V. , Denecke T. , Henkelmann J. , Jacob R. , von Dercks Nikolaus
Published: January 2022

Hintergrund

Anhand der vom Institut für das Entgeltsystem im Krankenhaus (InEK) kalkulierten Fallpauschalen ist ein Vergleich der eigenen Leistungsdaten gegenüber allen nach der DRG („diagnosis-related groups“, diagnosebezogene Gruppen) abrechnenden Kliniken in Deutschland möglich. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist es, Über- oder Unterschreitungen von CT- oder MRT-Untersuchungen im Vergleich mit den InEK-Daten zu ermitteln und mögliche Verbesserungspotenziale zu erschließen.

Methodik

Die InEK-Kalkulationsdaten für 2021 wurden zur Bildung von Vergleichskennzahlen der CT- und MRT-Diagnostik auf DRG-Ebene herangezogen. Auf Fallebene wurden Daten eines universitären Maximalversorgers auf Gesamthaus‑, Klinik‑, DRG- und Hauptdiagnosen-Ebene gegenübergestellt.

Ergebnis

Auf Gesamthausebene zeigt sich eine Überschreitung der MRTs um 1025 und der CTs um 371 gegenüber InEK. Die Analyse nach Fachabteilungen ergab am Beispiel der Neurologie eine Überschreibung der MRTs gegenüber InEK um 489 sowie eine Unterschreitung der CTs um $$-$$
-
620. Der Benchmark der DRGs zeigte in beiden Untersuchungsmodalitäten insbesondere die DRG B70B als Treiber der Abweichungen (MRT + 42,7; CT − 273). Die identifizierten Abweichungen lassen sich auf Hauptdiagnosen-Ebene weiter herunterbrechen.

Diskussion

Das Bewusstsein über eine überdurchschnittliche Schnittbilddiagnostik kann einen wichtigen Anstoß zur Weiterentwicklung der Behandlungspfade einer Klinik bilden. Die Methodik des InEK-Benchmarks ist für jedes Krankenhaus anwendbar und identifiziert valide bereits erbrachte Leistungen und Prozesse mit einem Verbesserungspotenzial. Die Prüfung beeinflussender Faktoren sowie die Bewertung durch Mediziner und Kaufleute bildet die Voraussetzung für Akzeptanz und Erfolg der daraus generierten Maßnahmen.
Development of a sample preparation procedure for Sr isotope analysis of Portland cements
Authors: Kazlagić Anera , Russo Francesco F. , Vogl Jochen , Sturm Patrick , Stephan Dietmar , Gluth Gregor J. G.
Published: January 2022

The 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratio can, in principle, be used for provenancing of cement. However, while commercial cements consist of multiple components, no detailed investigation into their individual 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios or their influence on the integral 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratio of the resulting cement was conducted previously. Therefore, the present study aimed at determining and comparing the conventional 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios of a diverse set of Portland cements and their corresponding Portland clinkers, the major component of these cements. Two approaches to remove the additives from the cements, i.e. to measure the conventional 87Sr/86Sr isotopic fingerprint of the clinker only, were tested, namely, treatment with a potassium hydroxide/sucrose solution and sieving on a 11-µm sieve. Dissolution in concentrated hydrochloric acid/nitric acid and in diluted nitric acid was employed to determine the 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios of the cements and the individual clinkers. The aim was to find the most appropriate sample preparation procedure for cement provenancing, and the selection was realised by comparing the 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios of differently treated cements with those of the corresponding clinkers. None of the methods to separate the clinkers from the cements proved to be satisfactory. However, it was found that the 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios of clinker and cement generally corresponded, meaning that the latter can be used as a proxy for the clinker 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratio. Finally, the concentrated hydrochloric acid/nitric acid dissolution method was found to be the most suitable sample preparation method for the cements; it is thus recommended for 87Sr/86Sr isotope analyses for cement provenancing.

Graphical abstract
Automatic quantitative computed tomography measurement of longitudinal lung volume loss in interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Si-Mohamed Salim A. , Nasser Mouhamad , Colevray Marion , Nempont Olivier , Lartaud Pierre-Jean , Vlachomitrou Anna , Broussaud Thomas , Ahmad Kais , Traclet Julie , Cottin Vincent , Boussel Loic
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To compare the lung CT volume (CTvol) and pulmonary function tests in an interstitial lung disease (ILD) population. Then to evaluate the CTvol loss between idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and non-IPF and explore a prognostic value of annual CTvol loss in IPF.

Methods

We conducted in an expert center a retrospective study between 2005 and 2018 on consecutive patients with ILD. CTvol was measured automatically using commercial software based on a deep learning algorithm. In the first group, Spearman correlation coefficients (r) between forced vital capacity (FVC), total lung capacity (TLC), and CTvol were calculated. In a second group, annual CTvol loss was calculated using linear regression analysis and compared with the Mann–Whitney test. In a last group of IPF patients, annual CTvol loss was calculated between baseline and 1-year CTs for investigating with the Youden index a prognostic value of major adverse event at 3 years. Univariate and log-rank tests were calculated.

Results

In total, 560 patients (4610 CTs) were analyzed. For 1171 CTs, CTvol was correlated with FVC (r: 0.86) and TLC (r: 0.84) (p < 0.0001). In 408 patients (3332 CT), median annual CTvol loss was 155.7 mL in IPF versus 50.7 mL in non-IPF (p < 0.0001) over 5.03 years. In 73 IPF patients, a relative annual CTvol loss of 7.9% was associated with major adverse events (log-rank, p < 0.0001) in univariate analysis (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Automated lung CT volume may be an alternative or a complementary biomarker to pulmonary function tests for the assessment of lung volume loss in ILD.

Key Points

• There is a good correlation between lung CT volume and forced vital capacity, as well as for with total lung capacity measurements (r of 0.86 and 0.84 respectively, p < 0.0001).

• Median annual CT volume loss is significantly higher in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis than in patients with other fibrotic interstitial lung diseases (155.7 versus 50.7 mL, p < 0.0001).

• In idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a relative annual CT volume loss higher than 9.4% is associated with a significantly reduced mean survival time at 2.0 years versus 2.8 years (log-rank, p < 0.0001).
Dietary protein intake and health-related outcomes: a methodological protocol for the evidence evaluation and the outline of an evidence to decision framework underlying the evidence-based guideline of the German Nutrition Society
Authors: Kroke Anja , Schmidt Annemarie , Amini Anna M. , Kalotai Nicole , Lehmann Andreas , Haardt Julia , Bauer Jürgen M. , Bischoff-Ferrari Heike A. , Boeing Heiner , Egert Sarah , Ellinger Sabine , Kühn Tilman , Louis Sandrine , Lorkowski Stefan , Nimptsch Katharina , Remer Thomas , Schulze Matthias B. , Siener Roswitha , Stangl Gabriele I. , Volkert Dorothee , Zittermann Armin , Buyken Anette E. , Watzl Bernhard , Schwingshackl Lukas ,   the German Nutrition Society
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The present work aimed to delineate (i) a revised protocol according to recent methodological developments in evidence generation, to (ii) describe its interpretation, the assessment of the overall certainty of evidence and to (iii) outline an Evidence to Decision framework for deriving an evidence-based guideline on quantitative and qualitative aspects of dietary protein intake.

Methods

A methodological protocol to systematically investigate the association between dietary protein intake and several health outcomes and for deriving dietary protein intake recommendations for the primary prevention of various non-communicable diseases in the general adult population was developed.

Results

The developed methodological protocol relies on umbrella reviews including systematic reviews with or without meta-analyses. Systematic literature searches in three databases will be performed for each health-related outcome. The methodological quality of all selected systematic reviews will be evaluated using a modified version of AMSTAR 2, and the outcome-specific certainty of evidence for systematic reviews with or without meta-analysis will be assessed with NutriGrade. The general outline of the Evidence to Decision framework foresees that recommendations in the derived guideline will be given based on the overall certainty of evidence as well as on additional criteria such as sustainability.

Conclusion

The methodological protocol permits a systematic evaluation of published systematic reviews on dietary protein intake and its association with selected health-related outcomes. An Evidence to Decision framework will be the basis for the overall conclusions and the resulting recommendations for dietary protein intake.
Sexual quality of life assessment in young women with breast cancer during adjuvant endocrine therapy and patient-reported supportive measures
Authors: Bobrie Angelique , Jarlier Marta , Moussion Aurore , Jacot William , D’Hondt Veronique
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Sexual quality of life (QoL) is affected during and after breast cancer (BC) treatment. The purpose was to investigate sexual and global QoL and patient-reported measures to address this issue in young women (< 51 years) with BC after the acute treatment phase, during adjuvant endocrine therapy.

Methods

Three EORTC questionnaires and an additional specific questionnaire, developed for the study, were used to assess sexual and global QoL and patient-reported supportive measures in BC patients who had received their endocrine therapy for at least 24 months. Among the 54 eligible patients, 45 (83%) agreed to participate in the study.

Results

We showed a deterioration in sexual QoL and poor communication with healthcare professionals. Most patients (88.9%) declared that it was important that sexuality should be discussed with caregivers and that the partner should also be involved. Most patients (60%) had taken at least one action to overcome their sexual problems. Most of these interventions (63%) originated from the patient herself.

Conclusions

Sexual QoL is a major issue in young BC patients and is poorly addressed by healthcare professionals. Most of the supportive methods used by the patients to overcome these side effects were on their own initiative. Communication and counseling on sexuality by healthcare professionals need to be improved during BC treatment. Patients suggested supportive measures they would find useful and appropriate to develop in the clinic. The final goal is to improve the sexual QoL of BC patients with the appropriate intervention and support.
Green preparation and characterization of silver nanocolloids used as antibacterial material in soap
Authors: Nowak M. , Tolińska A. , Marciniak L. , Skrobańska M. , Tylkowski B. , Frankowski M. , Kaczmarek M. T. , Jastrzab R.
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to assess the characteristics, including morphology, physicochemical properties, and antibacterial properties, of silver nanocolloids obtained by D-glucose reduction. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized in accordance with the principles of green chemistry using D-glucose as a reductor. The obtained nanostructures were characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. Stability tests performed after 1 month of storage revealed that the colloids prepared with and without polyvinylpyrrolidone as a stabilizer had the same properties. Distribution of the nanoparticles was tested using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry by doping the silver colloids into a natural soap mass. The antibacterial activity of the soap containing silver nanoparticles was tested on dirty hands. The antibacterial activity test demonstrated that the novel green soap materials improved with D-glucose-reduced silver nanoparticles possessed better antibacterial properties than a pure soap, and thus, they could be recommended for quotidian use by dermatological patients.
Formation and availability of methylmercury in mercury-contaminated sediment: effects of activated carbon and biochar amendments
Authors: Sørmo Erlend , Silvani Ludovica , Braaten Hans Fredrik Veiteberg , Bryntesen Tina , Eek Espen , Cornelissen Gerard
Published: January 2022

Purpose

As the formation of toxic and bioaccumulative methylmercury (MeHg) in Hg-contaminated sediments is of great concern worldwide, suitable remediation options are needed. Activated carbon (AC) amendment is a contested alternative due to uncertainties surrounding sorption efficiency and its potential role in aiding MeHg formation. The purpose of this study was therefore to demonstrate AC performance under favourable conditions for Hg-methylation and to further understand the role AC plays in the methylation process.

Materials and methods

Mercury-contaminated sediment (57.1 mg kg−1) was sampled from the Gunneklev fjord, a site known as the most heavily contaminated fjord in Norway. In a laboratory experiment, lignite AC (A-AC, 5%) or activated biochar (A-BC, 5%) along with dried algae biomass, serving as an excess source of easily degradable organic matter (OM) and sulphate, were added to sediment samples that were kept anoxic and dark over a period of 12 months.

Results and discussion

The amount of MeHg in sediment and porewater of the amended samples were measured at 0, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months and compared to an unamended control. A net increase of MeHg in the sediment was observed in both control and amended samples, but contrary to expectations, sediment MeHg was 5 and 3 times higher in the A-AC and A-BC treatments, respectively, relative to the control after 12 months. As the stimulation of Hg-methylation could not be attributed to the sorbents supplying more available OM or sulphate for dissimilatory sulphate reduction, it is speculated that the sorbents rather aid this process through shuttling of electrons between the substrates involved. Meanwhile, the A-AC and A-BC amendments strongly reduced the available MeHg-concentration in porewater (by 87% for A-AC and by 93% for A-BC after 12 months), confirming that AC sorbents can be used to effectively limit the transport of MeHg from sediments.

Conclusion

When considering remediation of OM-rich Hg-contaminated sediments with AC, caution is thus warranted, as the overall effect of reducing MeHg-transport out of the sediment could partly be offset by an increased fraction of MeHg in the sediment. Thin-layer capping with AC might therefore be preferable to complete mixing of AC and sediment.
Emerging Opportunities in Manufacturing Bulk Soft-Magnetic Alloys for Energy Applications: A Review
Authors: Kustas Andrew B. , Susan Donald F. , Monson Todd
Published: January 2022

Soft-magnetic alloys exhibit exceptional functional properties that are beneficial for a variety of electromagnetic applications. These alloys are conventionally manufactured into sheet or bar forms using well-established ingot metallurgy practices that involve hot- and cold-working steps. However, recent developments in process metallurgy have unlocked opportunities to directly produce bulk soft-magnetic alloys with improved, and often tailorable, structure–property relationships that are unachievable conventionally. The emergence of unconventional manufacturing routes for soft-magnetic alloys is largely motivated by the need to improve the energy efficiency of electromagnetic devices. In this review, literature that details emerging manufacturing approaches for soft-magnetic alloys is overviewed. This review covers (1) severe plastic deformation, (2) recent advances in melt spinning, (3) powder-based methods, and (4) additive manufacturing. These methods are discussed in comparison with conventional rolling and bar processing. Perspectives and recommended future research directions are also discussed.
Genetic and genomic characterization followed by single-step genomic evaluation of withers height in German Warmblood horses
Authors: Vosgerau Sarah , Krattenmacher Nina , Falker-Gieske Clemens , Seidel Anita , Tetens Jens , Stock Kathrin F. , Nolte Wietje , Wobbe Mirell , Blaj Iulia , Reents Reinhard , Kühn Christa , von Depka Prondzinski Mario , Kalm Ernst , Thaller Georg
Published: January 2022

Reliability of genomic predictions is influenced by the size and genetic composition of the reference population. For German Warmblood horses, compilation of a reference population has been enabled through the cooperation of five German breeding associations. In this study, preliminary data from this joint reference population were used to genetically and genomically characterize withers height and to apply single-step methodology for estimating genomic breeding values for withers height. Using data on 2113 mares and their genomic information considering about 62,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), analysis of the genomic relationship revealed substructures reflecting breed origin and different breeding goals of the contributing breeding associations. A genome-wide association study confirmed a known quantitative trait locus (QTL) for withers height on equine chromosome (ECA) 3 close to LCORL and identified a further significant peak on ECA 1. Using a single-step approach with a combined relationship matrix, the estimated heritability for withers height was 0.31 (SE = 0.08) and the corresponding genomic breeding values ranged from − 2.94 to 2.96 cm. A mean reliability of 0.38 was realized for these breeding values. The analyses of withers height showed that compiling a reference population across breeds is a suitable strategy for German Warmblood horses. The single-step method is an appealing approach for practical genomic prediction in horses, because not many genotypes are available yet and animals without genotypes can by this way directly contribute to the estimation system.
Tuning of frictional properties in torsional contact by means of disk grading
Authors: Costagliola Gianluca , Bosia Federico , Pugno Nicola M.
Published: January 2022

The contact of two surfaces in relative rotating motion occurs in many practical applications, from mechanical devices to human joints, displaying an intriguing interplay of effects at the onset of sliding due to the axisymmetric stress distribution. Theoretical and numerical models have been developed for some typical configurations, but work remains to be done to understand how to modify the emergent friction properties in this configuration. In this paper, we extend the two-dimensional (2D) spring-block model to investigate friction between surfaces in torsional contact. We investigate how the model describes the behavior of an elastic surface slowly rotating over a rigid substrate, comparing results with analytical calculations based on energy conservation. We show that an appropriate grading of the tribological properties of the surface can be used to avoid a non-uniform transition to sliding due to the axisymmetric configuration.
A literature review of smart warehouse operations management
Authors: Zhen Lu , Li Haolin
Published: January 2022

E-commerce, new retail, and other changes have highlighted the requirement of high efficiency and accuracy in the logistics service. As an important section in logistics and supply chain management, warehouses need to respond positively to the increasing requirement. The “smart warehouse” system, which is equipped with emerging warehousing technologies, is increasingly attracting the attention of industry and technology giants as an efficient solution for the future of warehouse development. This study provides a holistic view of operations management problems within the context of smart warehouses. We provide a framework to review smart warehouse operations management based on the characteristics of smart warehouses, including the perspectives of information interconnection, equipment automation, process integration, and environmental sustainability. A comprehensive review of relevant literature is then carried out based on the framework with four perspectives. This study could provide future research directions on smart warehouses for academia and industry practitioners.
Elements of ∞-Category Theory
Authors: Riehl Emily , Verity Dominic
Published: January 2022

The language of
∞-categories provides an insightful new way of expressing many
results in higher-dimensional mathematics but can be challenging
for the uninitiated. To explain what exactly an ∞-category is
requires various technical models, raising the question of how
they might be compared. To overcome this, a model-independent
approach is desired, so that theorems proven with any model
would apply to them all. This text develops the theory of
∞-categories from first principles in a model-independent
fashion using the axiomatic framework of an ∞-cosmos, the
universe in which ∞-categories live as objects. An ∞-cosmos is a
fertile setting for the formal category theory of ∞-categories,
and in this way the foundational proofs in ∞-category theory
closely resemble the classical foundations of ordinary category
theory. Equipped with exercises and appendices with background
material, this first introduction is meant for students and
researchers who have a strong foundation in classical 1-category
theory.
Can the unmodified incus be used for a simpler, more cost-effective functional ossicular chain reconstruction? A retrospective clinical study
Authors: Borgstein J A , Grech R W , Celikkol R
Published: January 2022

Objective

To evaluate patients’ hearing outcomes after ossicular chain reconstruction using unmodified autologous incus.

Methods

A single-centred, retrospective study of patients who underwent incus interposition between June 2010 and October 2017 was conducted at a Dutch secondary referral centre. This paper describes a chart review of patients who presented with erosion of the long process of the incus due to atelectasis or cholesteatoma who were treated with an unmodified incus interposition. The main outcome measures were: post-operative air–bone gap and level of air–bone gap closure.

Results

Thirty-three ears of 32 patients were included. Follow-up duration ranged from six weeks to seven years. A mean post-operative air–bone gap under 25 dB was considered successful; this was achieved in 25 patients (76 per cent), 20 (91 per cent) in the partial ossicular reconstruction prosthesis group and 5 (45 per cent) in the total ossicular reconstruction prosthesis group. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Successful preservation and improvement of hearing was observed in most patients. As expected, the closure rate in the partial ossicular reconstruction prosthesis group was better. Longer follow-up studies with larger case numbers are needed to assess whether further reconstruction techniques are necessary.
Lacydonia shohoensis (Annelida, Lacydoniidae) sp. nov. – a new lacydonid species from deep-sea sunken wood discovered at the Nishi-Shichito Ridge, North-western Pacific Ocean
Authors: Hookabe Natsumi , Jimi Naoto , Yokooka Hiroyuki , Tsuchida Shinji , Fujiwara Yoshihiro
Published: January 2022

Lacydonia Marion & Bobretsky, 1875 is the sole genus in the family Lacydoniidae Bergström, 1914. We herein describe the new species of Lacydonia shohoensis sp. nov. from 2042-m deep bottoms at Shoho Seamount of the Nishi-Shichito Ridge, the Northwest Pacific Ocean. It is most similar to L. anapaulae Rizzo et al., 2016 in having a depression on the median anterior region and lacking lateral lobes on the posterior margin of prostomium whereas it is distinguished by possessing pygidium dorsally pigmented with three reddish spots and non-pigmented pygidial lateral cirri equally elongated.
Prospective evaluation of 92 serum protein biomarkers for early detection of ovarian cancer
Authors: Mukama Trasias , Fortner Renée Turzanski , Katzke Verena , Hynes Lucas Cory , Petrera Agnese , Hauck Stefanie M. , Johnson Theron , Schulze Matthias , Schiborn Catarina , Rostgaard-Hansen Agnetha Linn , Tjønneland Anne , Overvad Kim , Pérez María José Sánchez , Crous-Bou Marta , Chirlaque María-Dolores , Amiano Pilar , Ardanaz Eva , Watts Eleanor L. , Travis Ruth C. , Sacerdote Carlotta , Grioni Sara , Masala Giovanna , Signoriello Simona , Tumino Rosario , Gram Inger T. , Sandanger Torkjel M. , Sartor Hanna , Lundin Eva , Idahl Annika , Heath Alicia K. , Dossus Laure , Weiderpass Elisabete , Kaaks Rudolf
Published: January 2022

Background

CA125 is the best available yet insufficiently sensitive biomarker for early detection of ovarian cancer. There is a need to identify novel biomarkers, which individually or in combination with CA125 can achieve adequate sensitivity and specificity for the detection of earlier-stage ovarian cancer.

Methods

In the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohort, we measured serum levels of 92 preselected proteins for 91 women who had blood sampled ≤18 months prior to ovarian cancer diagnosis, and 182 matched controls. We evaluated the discriminatory performance of the proteins as potential early diagnostic biomarkers of ovarian cancer.

Results

Nine of the 92 markers; CA125, HE4, FOLR1, KLK11, WISP1, MDK, CXCL13, MSLN and ADAM8 showed an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of ≥0.70 for discriminating between women diagnosed with ovarian cancer and women who remained cancer-free. All, except ADAM8, had shown at least equal discrimination in previous case-control comparisons. The discrimination of the biomarkers, however, was low for the lag-time of >9–18 months and paired combinations of CA125 with any of the 8 markers did not improve discrimination compared to CA125 alone.

Conclusion

Using pre-diagnostic serum samples, this study identified markers with good discrimination for the lag-time of 0–9 months. However, the discrimination was low in blood samples collected more than 9 months prior to diagnosis, and none of the markers showed major improvement in discrimination when added to CA125.
Heme-stress activated NRF2 skews fate trajectories of bone marrow cells from dendritic cells towards red pulp-like macrophages in hemolytic anemia
Authors: Vallelian Florence , Buzzi Raphael M. , Pfefferlé Marc , Yalamanoglu Ayla , Dubach Irina L. , Wassmer Andreas , Gentinetta Thomas , Hansen Kerstin , Humar Rok , Schulthess Nadja , Schaer Christian A. , Schaer Dominik J.
Published: January 2022

Heme is an erythrocyte-derived toxin that drives disease progression in hemolytic anemias, such as sickle cell disease. During hemolysis, specialized bone marrow-derived macrophages with a high heme-metabolism capacity orchestrate disease adaptation by removing damaged erythrocytes and heme-protein complexes from the blood and supporting iron recycling for erythropoiesis. Since chronic heme-stress is noxious for macrophages, erythrophagocytes in the spleen are continuously replenished from bone marrow-derived progenitors. Here, we hypothesized that adaptation to heme stress progressively shifts differentiation trajectories of bone marrow progenitors to expand the capacity of heme-handling monocyte-derived macrophages at the expense of the homeostatic generation of dendritic cells, which emerge from shared myeloid precursors. This heme-induced redirection of differentiation trajectories may contribute to hemolysis-induced secondary immunodeficiency. We performed single-cell RNA-sequencing with directional RNA velocity analysis of GM-CSF-supplemented mouse bone marrow cultures to assess myeloid differentiation under heme stress. We found that heme-activated NRF2 signaling shifted the differentiation of bone marrow cells towards antioxidant, iron-recycling macrophages, suppressing the generation of dendritic cells in heme-exposed bone marrow cultures. Heme eliminated the capacity of GM-CSF-supplemented bone marrow cultures to activate antigen-specific CD4 T cells. The generation of functionally competent dendritic cells was restored by NRF2 loss. The heme-induced phenotype of macrophage expansion with concurrent dendritic cell depletion was reproduced in hemolytic mice with sickle cell disease and spherocytosis and associated with reduced dendritic cell functions in the spleen. Our data provide a novel mechanistic underpinning of hemolytic stress as a driver of hyposplenism-related secondary immunodeficiency.
Inhibition of Rac1 attenuates radiation-induced lung injury while suppresses lung tumor in mice
Authors: An Ni , Li Zhenjie , Yan Xiaodi , Zhao Hainan , Yang Yajie , Liu Ruling , Yang Yanyong , Gao Fu , Li Bailong , Liu Hu , Yuan Hongbin
Published: January 2022

The lung is one of the most sensitive tissues to ionizing radiation, thus, radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) stays a key dose-limiting factor of thoracic radiotherapy. However, there is still little progress in the effective treatment of RILI. Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate1, Rac1, is a small guanosine triphosphatases involved in oxidative stress and apoptosis. Thus, Rac1 may be an important molecule that mediates radiation damage, inhibition of which may produce a protective effect on RILI. By establishing a mouse model of radiation-induced lung injury and orthotopic lung tumor-bearing mouse model, we detected the role of Rac1 inhibition in the protection of RILI and suppression of lung tumor. The results showed that ionizing radiation induces the nuclear translocation of Rac1, the latter then promotes nuclear translocation of P53 and prolongs the residence time of p53 in the nucleus, thereby promoting the transcription of Trp53inp1 which mediates p53-dependent apoptosis. Inhibition of Rac1 significantly reduce the apoptosis of normal lung epithelial cells, thereby effectively alleviating RILI. On the other hand, inhibition of Rac1 could also significantly inhibit the growth of lung tumor, increase the radiation sensitivity of tumor cells. These differential effects of Rac1 inhibition were related to the mutation and overexpression of Rac1 in tumor cells.
Dynamics of skeletal muscle-resident stem cells during myogenesis in fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva
Authors: Stanley Alexandra , Tichy Elisia D. , Kocan Jacob , Roberts Douglas W. , Shore Eileen M. , Mourkioti Foteini
Published: January 2022

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic disease in which extraskeletal (heterotopic) bone forms within tissues such as skeletal muscles, often in response to injury. Mutations in the BMP type I receptor ACVR1/ALK2 cause FOP by increasing BMP pathway signaling. In contrast to the growing understanding of the inappropriate formation of bone tissue within the muscle in FOP, much is still unknown about the regenerative capacity of adult diseased muscles. Utilizing an inducible ACVR1R206H knock-in mouse, we found that injured Acvr1R206H/+ skeletal muscle tissue regenerates poorly. We demonstrated that while two resident stem cell populations, muscle stem cells (MuSCs) and fibro/adipogenic progenitors (FAPs), have similar proliferation rates after injury, the differentiation potential of mutant MuSCs is compromised. Although MuSC-specific deletion of the ACVR1R206H mutation does not alter the regenerative potential of skeletal muscles in vivo, Acvr1R206H/+ MuSCs form underdeveloped fibers that fail to fuse in vitro. We further determined that FAPs from Acvr1R206H/+ mice repress the MuSC-mediated formation of Acvr1R206H/+ myotubes in vitro. These results identify a previously unrecognized role for ACVR1R206H in myogenesis in FOP, via improper interaction of tissue-resident stem cells during skeletal muscle regeneration.