bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical detection of bicalutamide in sepiolite clay sensing platform: Its possible electrooxidation mechanism, determination, and DNA interaction
Authors: Bayraktepe Dilek Eskiköy , Polat Kamran , Yıldız Ceren , Yazan Zehra
Published: February 2024

A carbon paste sensor was modified with sepiolite clay particles (SC/CPE) to quantify the bicalutamide (BICA). BICA's probable oxidation mechanism and the interaction between calf thymus DNA (dsDNA) were investigated (in aqueous medium, pH 4.8) for the first time. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used for the investigation of surface morphology and electrochemical characteristics. The effect of the amount of SC, supporting electrolyte, and pH was optimized. Under optimum conditions, the developed sensor exhibited a linear response between 0.223 and 20.0 μM. The detection of the limit was found to be 0.069 μM. The sensor was successfully applied to quantify BICA in biological and pharmaceutical samples. Finally, cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) provided new insight into the interaction between BICA and ds‐DNA. The kinetic parameters for the free DNA, diffusion coefficient (D), heterogeneous rate constant (ks), and electrode surface concentration (Γ) were calculated to be 4.22×10−5 cm2 s−1, 0.57 s−1 and 7.67×10−9 mol cm−2, respectively. The (ds‐DNA)‐BICA complex parameters were 4.56×10−6 cm2 s−1, 0.70 s−1, and 1.61×10−9 mol cm−2. In addition, binding constant (K) and Gibbs free energy change (ΔG°) were 6.02×105 M−1 and −32.97 kJ mol−1, respectively.
Insight into sulfapyridine degradation mechanism and antibacterial activity change using enhanced hydrolysis
Authors: Yao Pengcheng , Wu Hui , You Aiju , Yu Genting
Published: February 2024

Antibiotics in wastewater may inhibit the operation of biological treatment systems. Sulfapyridine (SPY) not only has antibacterial activity, but also chelates with other substances, and its antibacterial activity becomes stronger. An enhanced hydrolysis was applied to remove antibiotics as a promising pretreatment. An increase of 10°C accelerated the SPY hydrolysis rate by 1.98–2.40 fold, and the hydrolysis half‐life of SPY was shortened by 2.92 fold when pH was increased from 3 to 11 at 85°C. Herein, the contribution of hydrolysis to the SPY degradation increased as temperature, and the cleavage of bond is mainly way of SPY hydrolysis. The trend in the TP1 concentration indicate that NC cleavage may occur at the beginning of the reaction. According to result, the contribution of SPY to antibacterial activity decreased as the reaction progressed. The hydrolysis half‐life of SPY was shortened by condition optimization under normal pressure. The optimal conditions are pH = 10.8 and 60°C through response surface methodology (RSM) and EEO value with SPY concentration, antibacterial activity removal efficiency and low energy consumption as targets. Enhanced hydrolysis broken chemical bonds through hydrolysis and oxidation, shortening the hydrolysis half‐life of SPY at high temperature and alkaline. The energy consumption of SPY hydrolysis was calculated for the first time. Under the conditions of pH = 11 and 65°C, the energy consumption of per unit concentration SPY degradation was minimal. The results of this study demonstrated that enhanced hydrolysis is effective and energy conservation as a pretreatment technology for antibiotic.
A mixture of extracts from natural ingredients reduces the neurotoxic polarization of microglia via modulating NF‐κB/NF‐E2‐related factor 2 activation
Authors: Gui Shuge , Ni Junjun , Mizutani Shinsuke , Shigematsu Norihiro , Nakanishi Hiroshi , Kashiwazaki Haruhiko , Wu Zhou
Published: February 2024

Neurotoxic microglia‐provoked neuroinflammation is implicated in cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Supplementation with Ginkgo biloba, phosphatidylserine, Curcuma longa, and propolis is reported to improve the cognitive functions of elderly people; however, the underlying mechanisms of this combination of natural ingredients are unknown. We investigated the effects of a mixture of extracts from propolis, Coffea arabica, Gotu kola, phosphatidylserine, Ginkgo biloba, and Curcuma longa (mixture) on microglia polarization after exposure to amyloid β1‐42 (Aβ1‐42, 1 μM) and lipopolysaccharide from Porphyromonas gingivalis (PgLPS, 1 μg/mL), using MG6 and BV2 microglial cells. Exposure to Aβ1‐42 and PgLPS (AL) raised the mRNA expression of IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and IL‐6, nuclear translocation of p65 NF‐κB in MG6 cells and BV2 cells, and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in MG6 cells. The mixture dramatically suppressed the mRNA expression of IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and IL‐6, but significantly promoted that of IL‐10, TGFβ1, and BDNF in AL‐exposed MG6 and BV2 cells. Furthermore, the mixture significantly suppressed the nuclear translocation of p65 NF‐κB but significantly promoted that of NF‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) in AL‐exposed MG6 and BV2 cells. Furthermore, the mixture significantly ameliorated mitochondrial ROS production but increased mitochondrial membrane potential in MG6 cells. These observations strongly suggest that the mixture demotes the neuropathic polarization of microglia by modulating NF‐κB/Nrf2 activation and improving mitochondrial functions. This study supplies the potential mechanisms of the efficacy of a combination of natural ingredients that can be applied in the prevention of cognitive decline in AD and aging by targeting microglia‐mediated neuroinflammation.
The medieval croft plužina field system in a mountain region of central Europe: The interdisciplinary record of the earthen field boundaries in Debrné, Czechia
Authors: Poledník Mohammadi Sahar , Šitnerová Ivana , Lisá Lenka , Bumerl Jiří , Komárková Veronika , Fanta Václav , Majerovičová Tereza , Marko Ján , Moska Piotr , Beneš Jaromír
Published: February 2024

The integration of archaeological, historical and geoarchaeological records represents a significant contribution to research into the medieval landscape. This study focuses on the medieval field system in the deserted village of Debrné, located in northeastern Bohemia, Czechia. The village features a well‐preserved croft plužina field system, a typical historical landscape of central Europe. The main and most visible elements of the field system are the earthen field boundaries, which were the focus of the geoarchaeological investigations. Archaeological excavations in trench S1 revealed a collection of larger stones at a depth of 1 m, potentially serving a drainage function akin to the observed plužina. Additionally, a boulder paving, identified as a remnant of a path between fields, provided insights into the historical use of the area. In trench S2, positioned closer to the village's core, layers with increasing stone content were recorded at a depth of 130 cm. However, the drainage structure observed in trench S1 was not replicated. The dating of earthen field boundaries indicated the creation of the terrace in the second half of the 16th century in trench S1. In trench S2, radiocarbon dating at a depth of 70 to 80 cm ranged from 1025 to 1175 A.D., predating the first written source about Debrné. Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating in trench S2 suggested exposure to sunlight during the third century A.D. Archaeobotanical analysis of charred macroremains from trench S1 revealed 236 plant macroremains belonging to approximately 20 taxa, showcasing wild‐growing, collected useful species such as raspberry, blackberry and elderberry. Trench S2 yielded 23 plant macroremains belonging to 11 taxa, with similar species as trench S1. Pedological and micromorphological examinations displayed distinct layering in both trenches, showing up to six layers. Micromorphological analysis unveiled vuggy microstructures, varying grain sizes and elemental patterns, shedding light on different periods of occupation. Multidisciplinary investigations of the buried soils forming the earthen field boundaries discovered that the original soil cover comprised automorphic lixisols and cambisols, which also form under present conditions. These results underscore the importance of integrating pedological, geoarchaeological, archaeobotanical and physical data to comprehend the intricate nature of anthropogenic landscape changes.
Choice in the Context of Dementia: Emerging Issues for Health Care Practice in Aging Societies
Authors: Berlinger Nancy , Largent Emily A. , Buchbinder Mara , Solomon Mildred Z.
Published: February 2024

This introduction to the special report “Facing Dementia: Clarifying End‐of‐Life Choices, Supporting Better Lives” explains why focused attention to dementia is needed in bioethics and in health care practice in a range of settings. It explains how this strongly age‐associated condition shapes individual lives over years, revealing inequities in how dementia care is financed. The introduction explains the structure of the report, which consists of five essays, a consolidated set of recommendations from these essays, bibliographies, and other resources. The first essay is a landscape review written for health care professionals to support discussion, debate, and deliberation within professional societies and networks concerning a patient's voluntary choice to hasten their own death in the context of a dementia diagnosis. The landscape review is followed by three essays that suggest how several familiar concepts within care for persons with serious illness should be rethought to better support advance care planning, physician‐patient conversations, and access to community‐based palliative care and hospice when a person is facing dementia. The final essay presents a bold, practical argument for supporting better lives for people facing dementia, and for dementia caregivers, through primary care, the usual source of care for people with dementia.
When People Facing Dementia Choose to Hasten Death: The Landscape of Current Ethical, Legal, Medical, and Social Considerations in the United States
Authors: Largent Emily A. , Lowers Jane , Pope Thaddeus Mason , Quill Timothy E. , Wynia Matthew K.
Published: February 2024

Some individuals facing dementia contemplate hastening their own death: weighing the possibility of living longer with dementia against the alternative of dying sooner but avoiding the later stages of cognitive and functional impairment. This weighing resonates with an ethical and legal consensus in the United States that individuals can voluntarily choose to forgo life‐sustaining interventions and also that medical professionals can support these choices even when they will result in an earlier death. For these reasons, whether and how a terminally ill individual can choose to control the timing of their death is a topic that cannot be avoided when considering the dementia trajectory. With a focus on the U.S. context, this landscape review considers the status of provisions that would legally permit people facing dementia to hasten death with appropriate support from medical professionals. This review can be used to plan and guide clinical and legal practitioner discussion and policy development concerning evolving questions not fully covered by existing medical decision‐making provisions.
Serum MYCN as a predictive biomarker of prognosis and therapeutic response in the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence
Authors: Qin Xian‐Yang , Shirakami Yohei , Honda Masao , Yeh Shiou‐Hwei , Numata Kazushi , Lai Ya‐Yun , Li Chiao‐Ling , Wei Feifei , Xu Yali , Imai Kenji , Takai Koji , Chuma Makoto , Komatsu Nagisa , Furutani Yutaka , Gailhouste Luc , Aikata Hiroshi , Chayama Kazuaki , Enomoto Masaru , Tateishi Ryosuke , Kawaguchi Kazunori , Yamashita Tatsuya , Kaneko Shuichi , Nagaoka Katsuya , Tanaka Motohiko , Sasaki Yutaka , Tanaka Yasuhito , Baba Hideo , Miura Kouichi , Ochi Sae , Masaki Takahiro , Kojima Soichi , Matsuura Tomokazu , Shimizu Masahito , Chen Pei‐Jer , Moriwaki Hisataka , Suzuki Harukazu
Published: February 2024

The proto‐oncogene MYCN expression marked a cancer stem‐like cell population in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and served as a therapeutic target of acyclic retinoid (ACR), an orally administered vitamin A derivative that has demonstrated promising efficacy and safety in reducing HCC recurrence. This study investigated the role of MYCN as a predictive biomarker for therapeutic response to ACR and prognosis of HCC. MYCN gene expression in HCC was analyzed in the Cancer Genome Atlas and a Taiwanese cohort (N = 118). Serum MYCN protein levels were assessed in healthy controls (N = 15), patients with HCC (N = 116), pre‐ and post‐surgical patients with HCC (N = 20), and a subset of patients from a phase 3 clinical trial of ACR (N = 68, NCT01640808). The results showed increased MYCN gene expression in HCC tumors, which positively correlated with HCC recurrence in non‐cirrhotic or single‐tumor patients. Serum MYCN protein levels were higher in patients with HCC, decreased after surgical resection of HCC, and were associated with liver functional reserve and fibrosis markers, as well as long‐term HCC prognosis (>4 years). Subgroup analysis of a phase 3 clinical trial of ACR identified serum MYCN as the risk factor most strongly associated with HCC recurrence. Patients with HCC with higher serum MYCN levels after a 4‐week treatment of ACR exhibited a significantly higher risk of recurrence (hazard ratio 3.27; p = .022). In conclusion, serum MYCN holds promise for biomarker‐based precision medicine for the prevention of HCC, long‐term prognosis of early‐stage HCC, and identification of high‐response subgroups for ACR‐based treatment.
Primary fallopian tube carcinoma diagnosed 29 years after bilateral partial salpingectomy: A case report
Authors: Nguyen Bao T. , Lundeberg Kathleen R. , Lo Nancy W. , Findley Austin , Riggs McKayla J. , Nagy Kelly E.
Published: February 2024

Synopsis

Salpingectomy has a reported theoretical decreased risk of tubal and ovarian cancers. Here we describe a case 29 years after partial salpingectomy.
Preoperative rapid growth of inferior vena cava tumor thrombus in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Katsu Akifumi , Yanagi Masato , Yoshioka Masato , Motoda Norio , Takata Hideyuki , Kono Hiroyoshi , Kimata Ryoji , Hamasaki Tsutomu , Kondo Yukihiro
Published: February 2024

Introduction

We present the case of a rapidly growing inferior vena cava tumor thrombus in renal cell carcinoma.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 66‐year‐old woman with right renal cell carcinoma with a tumor thrombus extending 2 cm into the inferior vena cava on an initial Imaging. Radical surgery was performed 6 weeks after the first visit. Intraoperatively, the tumor thrombus was confirmed to have grown near the diaphragm. The tumor was resected using an inferior vena cava clamping just below the diaphragm. The tumor thrombus and renal cell carcinoma were completely removed. There was no recurrence 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusion

Inferior vena cava tumor thrombus in renal cell carcinoma can grow in a short period, suggesting that preoperative imaging evaluation at the appropriate time is important. Once inferior vena cava tumor thrombus of renal cell carcinoma occurs, surgery should not be delayed unless there is an urgent reason.
Assessment of the change in the pH of water in a flow electric activator
Authors: Storchevoy Vladimir , Belov Mikhail , Gurov Dmitry , Sudnik Yuri , Kabdin Nikolai
Published: February 2024

Soil pH is important for favourable plant growth. The water used for irrigation must have an optimal pH value. Such water can be prepared by passing it through a flow electric activator. An experimental setup with a flow electric activator was created to control the pH value of the activated water. A mathematical model was developed to establish the relationship between the activated water pH value and the power supply voltage and the performance of the anode and cathode chambers. The pH value of activated water varies in direct proportion to the power supply voltage and is inversely proportional to the performance of the set chambers. The pH value of activated water can be adjusted by two parameters: the voltage of the power source and the water supply.
Sperm morphology of Tingidae Laporte, 1833 (Miroidea: Cimicomorpha)
Authors: Rezende Paulo Henrique , Costa Dayvson Ayala , da Silva Paulo Mauricio , Dias Glenda , Lupetti Pietro , Lino‐Neto José , Dallai Romano
Published: February 2024

Here, we describe for the first time the sperm morphology of Tingidae (Heteroptera). They are small insects presenting lacy patterns on their pronotum and hemielytra and are exclusively phytophagous, with many economically important species. We studied five species of the tribe Tingini (Tinginae): Teleonemia scrupulosa, Vatiga illudens, Gargaphia lunulata, Leptopharsa sp., and Corythucha arcuata. Their spermiogenesis process is similar to other Heteroptera, with some differences in the formation of the centriole adjunct. This structure extends in the anteroposterior spermatid axis, flanking the nucleus, possibly contributing to nucleus remodeling and sperm elongation. The mature sperm of Tingidae is also similar to that of other Heteroptera, with features that corroborate the group's monophyly. Our data support previous results for their sister family, Miridae, which exhibits some characteristics exclusive to this taxon, not present in Tingidae or other Heteroptera. They also support the sister relationship of the genera Gargaphia and Leptopharsa and suggest closer relationship between Vatiga and Corythucha. Overall, this study sheds light on the sperm ultrastructure of Tingidae and provides information for understanding the evolution and diversity of Heteroptera.

Research Highlights

The spermiogenesis process and mature sperm are similar to other Heteroptera

The centriole adjunct is derived from a strip of a pericentriolar material extending from the centriole

Tingidae and Miridae are distinguishable using sperm morphology.
Trends in the synthetic polymer delivery of RNA
Authors: Friesen Josh J. , Blakney Anna K.
Published: February 2024

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) has emerged as one of the most promising therapeutic payloads in the field of gene therapy. There are many unique types of RNA that allow for a range of applications including vaccination, protein replacement therapy, autoimmune disease treatment, gene knockdown and gene editing. However, RNA triggers the host immune system, is vulnerable to degradation and has a low proclivity to enter cells spontaneously. Therefore, a delivery vehicle is required to facilitate the protection and uptake of RNA therapeutics into the desired host cells. Lipid nanoparticles have emerged as one of the only clinically approved vehicles for genetic payloads, including in the COVID‐19 messenger RNA vaccines. While lipid nanoparticles have distinct advantages, they also have drawbacks, including strong immune stimulation, complex manufacturing and formulation heterogeneity. In contrast, synthetic polymers are a widely studied group of gene delivery vehicles and boast distinct advantages, including biocompatibility, tunability, inexpensiveness, simple formulation and ease of modification. Some classes of polymers enhance efficient transfection efficiency, and lead to lower stimulation of the host immune system, making them more viable candidates for non‐vaccine‐related applications of RNA medicines. This review aims to identify the most promising classes of synthetic polymers, summarize recent research aimed at moving them into the clinic and postulate the future steps required for unlocking their full potential.
Integrating methadone into primary care settings in Ukraine: effects on provider stigma and knowledge
Authors: Bromberg Daniel J. , Machavariani Eteri , Madden Lynn M. , Dumchev Konstantin , LaMonaca Katherine , Earnshaw Valerie A. , Pykalo Iryna , Filippovych Myroslava , Haddad Marwan S. , Dvoriak Sergii , Altice Frederick L.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Stigma has undermined the scale‐up of evidence‐based HIV prevention and treatment. Negative beliefs influence clinicians’ discriminatory behaviour and ultimately have wide‐ranging effects across the HIV prevention and treatment continuum. Stigma among clinicians can be mitigated in several ways, including through interpersonal contact. In this study, we test whether interactions with people who inject drugs (PWID) influence attitudes of both direct and indirect providers of opioid agonist therapies (OATs) within the same primary care clinics (PCCs) where OAT is newly introduced.

Methods

In a cluster randomized controlled trial integrating OAT and HIV care into PCCs in Ukraine, clinicians at 24 integrated care sites (two sites in 12 regions) from January 2018 to August 2022 completed a structured survey at baseline, 12 and 24 months. The survey included feeling thermometers and standardized scales related to clinician attitudes towards patients and evidence‐based care. Nested linear mixed‐effects models were used to examine changes in mean scores over three timepoints for both direct and indirect clinicians.

Results

There were fewer significant changes in any of the scales for direct providers (n = 87) than for indirect providers (n = 155). Direct providers became less tough‐minded about substance use disorders (p = 0.002), had less negative opinions about PWID (p = 0.006) and improved their beliefs regarding OAT maintenance (p<0.001) and medical information (p = 0.004). Indirect providers reported improvements in most stigma constructs, including a significant decrease in prejudice (p<0.001), discrimination (p = 0.001), shame (p = 0.007) and fear (p = 0.001) towards PWID.

Conclusions

Integrating OAT services within primary settings was associated with significantly reduced stigma constructs and improved attitudes towards PWID, possibly through increased intergroup contact between PWID and general clinical staff. Unlike most stigma reduction interventions, re‐engineering clinical processes so that PWID receive their care in PCCs emerges as a multilevel stigma reduction intervention through the integration of specialized services in PCCs. Integration influences different types of stigma, and has positive effects not only on health outcomes, but also improves clinician attitudes and efficiently reduces clinician stigma.
Effect of inactivated vaccine boosters against severe and critical COVID‐19 during the Omicron BA.5 wave: A retrospective analysis of hospitalized patients in China
Authors: Gan Jiadi , Zhang Huohuo , Wu Jiaxuan , Liu Yi , Liu Pingping , Cheng Ruixin , Tang Xiumei , Yang Linhui , Luo Wenxin , Li Weimin
Published: February 2024

Few real‐world analyses of the ability of vaccines to protect against severe COVID‐19 have been published. In this real‐world study, we compared the prevalence of severe or critical COVID‐19 between patients at our hospital who were not vaccinated against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) or who had been vaccinated partial, full, or booster course with the CoronaVac, containing inactivated virus propagated in Vero cells. Data from electronic health records were retrospectively analyzed for 4090 inpatients with COVID‐19 who were treated at West China Hospital, Chengdu between December 6, 2022 and February 14, 2023. Clinicodemographic characteristics and COVID‐19 severity were compared among patients who had been vaccinated 0, 1, 2 or more times with inactivated vaccine CoronaVac. To evaluate vaccine effectiveness over time, we plotted Kaplan−Meier curves with the percentage of patients with the outcome of severe or critical COVID‐19 from the time of their last vaccine dose according to vaccination status. Ordinal logistic regression was used to assess associations between vaccination status and COVID‐19 severity. Cox regression was used to identify risk factors for severe or critical COVID‐19. Among the 4090 patients, 171 had been vaccinated partial and 423 twice with the full CoronaVac regimens, while 905 had been vaccinated three times (boosted). The prevalence of severe or critical COVID‐19 among patients was 11 percentage points lower among those vaccinated (40%) at least twice than among those unvaccinated (51%) (p＜0.001), while it was 10% points lower among those who had received a booster (41%) than among those unvaccinated (51%) (p＜0.001). Protection against severe or critical COVID‐19 due to vaccination was significantly weakened by being older than 65 years, being male, or having diabetes, chronic heart disease, autoimmune disease, or chronic lung disease. Completing a full course of immunization with inactivated vaccine CoronaVac against SARS‐CoV‐2 can reduce the risk of severe or critical COVID‐19 due to the Omicron BA.5 subvariant.
The effect of job stress on the quality of life of commercial pilots: Testing the mediating effects of mindfulness and job satisfaction
Authors: Kim Jinok Susanna , Jo WooMi , Oh Hyunghwa , Feng Yan
Published: February 2024

The commercial pilots responsible for aircraft and passenger safety are exposed to various environmental job stresses. This study investigates the relationship between job stress and the quality of life of commercial pilots, and examines the mediating effects of mindfulness and job satisfaction in the relationship between job stress and quality of life. The results show that the job stress aced by commercial pilots has a negative impact on quality of life, and that mindfulness and job satisfaction partially mediates this stress. However, despite the mediating effects of mindfulness and job satisfaction, there is a need for a way to reduce job stress more directly. These results indicate the need for various strategies, including direct and indirect methods, to reduce job stress among commercial pilots, as this is directly related to safety.
A practical guide to over‐the‐counter treatments for hyperpigmentation
Authors: Jafry Mustufa , Guan Linna L. , Mohammad Tasneem F.
Published: February 2024

Hyperpigmentation of the skin, defined as increased melanin in the epidermis, is a common condition associated with psychosocial impairment and decreased quality of life. Prescription options are often not covered by insurance and can be cost prohibitive. As such, many turn to over‐the‐counter (OTC) products for treatment. However, a plethora of options are available, which can be confusing. This review aims to evaluate the evidence for common ingredients found in OTC products for management of hyperpigmentation and provide guidance for optimal use to clinicians and consumers. To perform this review, a comprehensive literature search utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted to identify relevant studies on the clinico‐epidemiological aspects of hyperpigmentation, including postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma and maturational hyperpigmentation, as well as on relevant OTC treatments. The efficacy and safety of OTC products were assessed based on available evidence, clinical trials and expert recommendations. Our results showed hyperpigmentation is more prevalent among individuals with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick skin phototypes III–VI). Due to limited insurance coverage and the high cost of prescription options, over‐the‐counter (OTC) treatments are widely used for managing postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). However, the lack of strict regulation by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raises concerns about the safety and efficacy of these products. By critically evaluating the existing literature, this review offers practical, evidence‐based guidance for the selection and utilization of OTC products for the treatment of hyperpigmentation.
Survival and behavior of Mojave desert tortoises head‐started with and without outdoor rearing
Authors: Glass M. Susanna , Todd Brian D. , Buhlmann Kurt A. , Rushing Clark S. , Tuberville Tracey D.
Published: February 2024

Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) populations in some regions have declined by >50% since 2004, prompting the need for more research on ways to recover populations. One possible recovery tool is head‐starting (i.e., the act of protecting and raising juvenile tortoises to sizes that increase survival upon release); however, head‐starting can have high start‐up and maintenance costs that can limit its feasibility. Strategies that reduce cost and rearing duration may foster broader and more effective use. We released and radio‐tracked 60 juvenile tortoises in the Mojave National Preserve in California, USA, that had been reared under 2 treatments: those reared 1 year indoors after hatching, then 1 year outdoors (combo) and those reared just 1 year indoors (indoor‐only). We tested whether indoor‐only rearing alone could be a more efficient means of producing robust head‐started tortoises. We examined the behavior, movement, and survival of tortoises after release into the wild from 2020 to 2021 to determine whether these outcomes differed between husbandry treatments. Combo tortoises tended to perform settling behaviors (mean ± 1 SE days to building first burrow = 6.7 ± 0.8, entering dormancy = 23.3 ± 2.1, and emerging from dormancy = 189.6 ± 4.4) earlier than indoor‐only tortoises (7.4 ± 0.9, 31.5 ± 2.6, and 193.9 ± 5.9, respectively), but this difference was not significant, suggesting the rearing method did not greatly alter settling behavior. Indoor‐only tortoises dispersed at least twice as far from their release site (156.2 ± 26.3 m compared with 77.3 ± 20.6 m for combo tortoises), had larger mean use areas (3.7 ± 0.1 ha compared with 2.8 ± 0.3 ha for combo tortoises for 95% Brownian bridge movement model estimates), and greater variability in their movements than combo tortoises (daily average step length post‐emergence: 4.3 ± 0.2 m compared with 2.8 ± 0.1 m for combo tortoises). Despite differences in their movements, indoor‐only and combo tortoises had similar survival rates over the study, 51% versus 42%, respectively, during a period of extreme drought in 2021. The similarity in survival between groups gives head‐starting practitioners freedom in their rearing methods. The indoor‐only group had lower site fidelity, which should be considered when this is an undesirable trait for released tortoises.
Environmental Impact of a Direct Laryngoscopy: Opportunities for Pollution Mitigation
Authors: Filley Grace I. , Kayastha Darpan , Hayes Wesley , Mehra Saral , Sherman Jodi D. , Eckelman Matthew J.
Published: February 2024

Objective

To quantify the environmental impact of standard direct laryngoscopy surgery and model the environmental benefit of three feasible alternative scenarios that meet safe decontamination reprocessing requirements.

Study Design

This is a life cycle assessment (LCA) modeling study.

Setting

Yale‐New Haven Hospital (YNHH), a 1541‐bed tertiary medical center in New Haven, Connecticut, USA.

Methods

We performed cradle‐to‐grave LCA of DLS at Yale New Haven Hospital in 2022, including global warming potential (GWP), water consumption, and fine particulate matter formation. Three alternative scenarios were modeled: disinfecting surgical tools using high‐level disinfection rather than steam sterilization, substituting non‐sterile for sterile gloves and gowns; and reducing surgical towel and drape sizes by 30%.

Results

Changes in disinfection practices would decrease procedure GWP by 11% in each environmental impact category. Substituting non‐sterile gowns and gloves reduced GWP by 15%, with nominal changes to water consumption. Linen size reduction resulted in 28% less procedure‐related water consumption. Together, a nearly 30% reduction across all environmental impact categories could be achieved.

Conclusions

Not exceeding minimum Center for Disease Control (CDC) decontamination standards for reusable devices and optimizing non‐sterile consumable materials could dramatically reduce healthcare‐associated emissions without compromising safety, thereby minimizing the negative consequences of hospital operations to environmental and human health. Findings extend to other non‐sterile surgical procedures.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:3206–3214, 2024
Vitamin D supplementation in preventing the recurrence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Kong Tae Hoon , Jung Su Young , Seo Young Joon , Shim Dae Bo
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the recurrence rate of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

Methods

A single‐center, prospective, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group randomized controlled trial was conducted between November 2018 and May 2020. After successful treatment with canalith repositioning maneuvers, patients diagnosed with BPPV were randomized to either the vitamin D (n = 20) or placebo (n = 18) group. Only patients with serum vitamin D levels <20 ng mL−1 were included. The vitamin D group received 7000 IU of vitamin D weekly for a year, while the placebo group received a matching placebo drug. The final endpoint was the BPPV recurrence rate and correlation with serum vitamin D levels after 6 and 12 months in both groups.

Results

Among 38 patients, 37 were followed up for 6 months and 30 for 12 months. Significantly higher serum vitamin D levels were observed in the vitamin D group compared to the placebo group at both the 6‐month and 1‐year follow‐ups (p < .001 at each timepoint). The recurrence rate was lower in the vitamin D group than in the placebo group after 6 months (p = .008) and 1 year (p = .003).

Conclusion

Vitamin D supplementation, in the absence of calcium, may be beneficial for patients prone to recurrent BPPV episodes, particularly when serum vitamin D levels are suboptimal (PRE20181024‐001, Clinical Research Information Service, South Korea).

Level of Evidence

1b.
FTO promotes the progression of retinoblastoma through YTHDF2‐dependent N6‐methyladenosine modification in E2F3
Authors: Xie Weiwei , Shao Yongqing , Bo Qingyun , Li Zhen , Yu Qihua , Wang Layi , Wu Guohai
Published: February 2024

Early treatment of retinoblastoma (RB) has significantly improved clinical outcomes. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is crucial for cancer progression. Thus, we investigated the role of FTO‐dependent demethylation in RB and its underlying mechanisms. The biological behavior of RB cells was analyzed using cell counting kit‐8, colony formation analysis, transwell assay, flow cytometry, and western blot analysis. m6A modification was evaluated using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation and dual‐luciferase reporter assays, and E2F3 stability was assessed using Actinomycin D. The roles of FTO and E2F3 were also elucidated in vivo. These results indicated that FTO was highly expressed in RB cells with low m6A levels. FTO knockdown inhibited RB cell growth, migration, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. Mechanistically, FTO interference promoted m6A methylation of E2F3, which was recognized by YTHDF2, thereby reducing mRNA stability. E2F3 overexpression partially rescued the effects of FTO knockdown on biological behavior. Moreover, FTO knockdown reduced tumor weight, tumor volume, ki67 expression, and tumor cell infiltration by mediating E2F3. Taken together, FTO silencing inhibited the malignant processes of RB by suppressing E2F3 in an m6A‐YTHD2‐dependent manner. These findings suggest that FTO is a novel therapeutic target for RB.
Systematical identification of key genes and regulatory genetic variants associated with prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Gu Linglong , Yue Xinying , Niu Siyuan , Ma Jialing , Liu Shasha , Pan Miaoxin , Song Lina , Su Qianqian , Tan Yuqian , Li Yueping , Chang Jiang
Published: February 2024

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) stands as a highly lethal malignancy characterized by pronounced recurrence and metastasis, resulting in a bleak 5‐year survival rate. Despite extensive investigations, encompassing genome‐wide association studies, the identification of robust prognostic markers has remained elusive. In this study, leveraging four independent data sets comprising 404 ESCC patients, we conducted a systematic analysis to unveil pivotal genes influencing overall survival. our meta‐analysis identified 278 genes significantly associated with ESCC prognosis. Further exploration of the prognostic landscape involved an examination of expression quantitative trait loci for these genes, leading to the identification of six tag single nucleotide polymorphisms predictive of overall survival in a cohort of 904 ESCC patients. Notably, functional annotation spotlighted rs11227223, residing in the enhancer region of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1), as a crucial variant likely exerting a substantive biological role. Through a series of biochemistry experiments, we conclusively demonstrated that the rs11227223‐T allele, indicative of a poorer prognosis, augmented NEAT1 expression. Our results underscore the substantive role of NEAT1 and its regulatory variant in prognostic predictions for ESCC. This comprehensive analysis not only advances our comprehension of ESCC prognosis but also unveils a potential avenue for targeted interventions, offering promise for enhanced clinical outcomes.
Seasonality, distribution, and harvest trends of Crevalle Jack in Texas
Authors: Getz Ethan , Walker Lily , Eckert Catherine , Downey Charles
Published: February 2024

Objective

Crevalle Jack Caranx hippos are important coastal predators and support an increasingly popular catch-and-release sport fishery. However, population declines have recently been perceived by stakeholders in parts of the species' range. Here, we aimed to provide distribution and harvest trends for Crevalle Jack in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico.

Methods

Long-term fishery-independent and fishery-dependent data were collected by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department from 1983 to 2021. Bag seine, bay trawl, and gill-net samples were collected in conjunction with angler creel surveys. Crevalle Jack that were observed in fishery-independent sampling were used to assess patterns in both juvenile and adult relative abundance, distribution, and seasonality. In addition, boosted regression tree models were used to highlight important predictors of Crevalle Jack presence. Crevalle Jack harvest observed during angler surveys was used to describe the fishery, including differences in inshore and offshore catch patterns. Relative abundance of both juveniles and adults was variable across years but displayed no trend throughout the time series.

Result

Crevalle Jack of all sizes were found within inshore waters, with subadults and large adults particularly reliant on estuarine systems. Recruitment peaked in early summer, with juveniles occupying all major estuaries along the coast. Shifts in recruitment were evident in bag seines, as the mean date of catch trended almost 2 weeks earlier over the study period. The Crevalle Jack fishery was spread across inshore and offshore waters, with significantly larger fish harvested offshore during summer. The majority of anglers who harvested Crevalle Jack stated that they were specifically targeting other species, thus supporting the notion that the targeted fishery is mainly catch and release.

Conclusion

As Crevalle Jack declines have been noted elsewhere in the species' range, these results could help to inform future management decisions in Texas.
Patient perception of group consultations for knee osteoarthritis and influence of area‐level deprivation: A service evaluation in a physiotherapy musculoskeletal setting
Authors: Blatgé Hugo , Shanmugam Sivaramkumar , Slattery Brian , Lewis Olivia , Nicol Zoe
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Group consultations are considered valuable for managing musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. This service evaluation aimed to assess the perception of knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients regarding group consultations in NHS Lanarkshire's MSK service. It also explored the impact of area‐level deprivation on patient engagement.

Methods

Surveys were developed to gauge patient satisfaction, preferences, and experiences in virtual and face‐to‐face (FTF) group consultations. Patients were categorised into opt‐out, did not attend (DNA), or opt‐in groups. We used the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation for area‐level deprivation analysis. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data, while qualitative data were thematically analysed.

Results

A total of 84 patients participated, and area‐level deprivation was similar across groups. Common engagement barriers included disinterest and transportation issues in opt‐out and DNA groups, and IT problems in the DNA virtual group. Most patients expressed a preference for one‐on‐one consultations. FTF opt‐in patients reported high satisfaction and increased confidence in managing their condition post‐consultation. Virtual opt‐in patients had a more neutral satisfaction level and mixed confidence. They were also less comfortable interacting with others during the consultation. Thematic analysis revealed positive experiences, and areas for improvement such as individual privacy concerns and additional resources.

Conclusion

Overall, patients were generally satisfied with group consultations for knee OA. The evaluation identified strategies to enhance engagement. Area‐level deprivation did not significantly impact patient participation in group consultations.
Association between TV and/or video time and nocturia in adults: An analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Wang Junwei , Zhang Aiwei , Ye Miaoyong , Zhang Cunming
Published: February 2024

Aims

This study aimed to examine the correlation between television (TV) and/or video viewing time and the occurrence of nocturia in adults.

Methods

An analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for 2011–2016 was conducted, involving 13 294 adults aged 20 and older. The main outcome was specified as nocturia, which refers to the requirement of urinating two or more times during the night. Initially, baseline characteristics were contrasted between individuals with and without nocturia. The effects of TV and/or video viewing time on nocturia were further explored using multivariable logistic regression models. To acknowledge the variation in baseline data regarding the prevalence of nocturia, subgroup analyses were performed.

Results

Adjusted multivariate analysis revealed that individuals in the group with the longest TV and/or video viewing time had a significantly 48% higher risk of experiencing nocturia compared to those with the shortest TV and/or video viewing time. The results of subgroup analyses revealed no significant differences in the interaction tests between TV and/or video viewing time and nocturia.

Conclusions

Our research showed that individuals who spent 5 or more hours a day watching TV and/or videos were significantly more likely to develop nocturia.
Target‐decoy false discovery rate estimation using Crema
Authors: Lin Andy , See Donavan , Fondrie William E. , Keich Uri , Noble William Stafford
Published: February 2024

Assigning statistical confidence estimates to discoveries produced by a tandem mass spectrometry proteomics experiment is critical to enabling principled interpretation of the results and assessing the cost/benefit ratio of experimental follow‐up. The most common technique for computing such estimates is to use target‐decoy competition (TDC), in which observed spectra are searched against a database of real (target) peptides and a database of shuffled or reversed (decoy) peptides. TDC procedures for estimating the false discovery rate (FDR) at a given score threshold have been developed for application at the level of spectra, peptides, or proteins. Although these techniques are relatively straightforward to implement, it is common in the literature to skip over the implementation details or even to make mistakes in how the TDC procedures are applied in practice. Here we present Crema, an open‐source Python tool that implements several TDC methods of spectrum‐, peptide‐ and protein‐level FDR estimation. Crema is compatible with a variety of existing database search tools and provides a straightforward way to obtain robust FDR estimates.
Single layered soft skin actuated with twisted and mandrel coiled actuators for soft robotics
Authors: Matharu Pawandeep Singh , Singh Abhishek Pratap , Song Yuyang , Gandhi Umesh , Tadesse Yonas
Published: February 2024

Soft silicone‐based artificial skin is essential in soft robotics because of high elongation, safe human interaction, low energy requirements and ease of manufacturing. Inspired by nature, several attempts have been made to fabricate morphing structures using synthetic soft skin. In this study, a novel elastomeric skin is demonstrated featuring embedded actuators and micro‐fluidic channels, that is capable of grasping objects. The actuators are twisted, and mandrel coiled nylon artificial muscles, with nichrome heaters that overcome key challenges in developing synthetic soft skin. The desired properties of a morphing skin are being low‐cost, lightweight, highly deformable, compact size, silent cyclic actuation, fast response, and long life. The actuators are fabricated from 160 μm diameter resistance wires wrapped on twisted nylon 6 fishing line precursor fibers of 800 μm diameter. The wrapped nichrome (0.42 mm pitch) along with the twisted precursor fibers are coiled on a 1.4 mm diameter mandrel rod to obtain high strain. This muscle termed twisted, and mandrel coiled polymer fishing line muscle with nichrome is embedded in soft skin samples and tested. Characterization results on the actuators (3.2 mm in diameter) showed remarkable tensile actuation of ~36% strain from loaded length at 0.99 MPa for an input power of 4.9 W, a blocked stress of 1.27 MPa, an actuation frequency of 0.04 Hz, and a lifecycle >22,000 cycles. These actuators, when embedded in the soft skin of 4 mm thick, showed ~50% bending strain within 10s and a cyclic behavior with active water cooling. A soft gripper fabricated with embedded soft skin is integrated to our child‐sized humanoid robot (HBS Robot) demonstrating its potential in grasping unconventional and deformable objects, hence advancing the progress in soft robotics.
Structural insights into peptidoglycan glycosidase EtgA binding to the inner rod protein EscI of the type III secretion system via a designed EscI‐EtgA fusion protein
Authors: Boorman J. , Zeng X. , Lin J. , van den Akker F.
Published: February 2024

Bacteria express lytic enzymes such as glycosidases, which have potentially self‐destructive peptidoglycan (PG)‐degrading activity and, therefore, require careful regulation in bacteria. The PG glycosidase EtgA is regulated by localization to the assembling type III secretion system (T3SS), generating a hole in the PG layer for the T3SS to reach the outer membrane. The EtgA localization was found to be mediated via EtgA interacting with the T3SS inner rod protein EscI. To gain structural insights into the EtgA recognition of EscI, we determined the 2.01 Å resolution structure of an EscI (51–87)‐linker‐EtgA fusion protein designed based on AlphaFold2 predictions. The structure revealed EscI residues 72–87 forming an α‐helix interacting with the backside of EtgA, distant from the active site. EscI residues 56–71 also were found to interact with EtgA, with these residues stretching across the EtgA surface. The ability of the EscI to interact with EtgA was also probed using an EscI peptide. The EscI peptide comprising residues 66–87, slightly larger than the observed EscI α‐helix, was shown to bind to EtgA using microscale thermophoresis and thermal shift differential scanning fluorimetry. The EscI peptide also had a two‐fold activity‐enhancing effect on EtgA, whereas the EscI‐EtgA fusion protein enhanced activity over four‐fold compared to EtgA. Our studies suggest that EtgA regulation by EscI could be trifold involving protein localization, protein activation, and protein stabilization components. Analysis of the sequence conservation of the EscI EtgA interface residues suggested a possible conservation of such regulation for related proteins from different bacteria.