bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SARS‐CoV‐2 infection results in upregulation of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor‐1 and Neuroserpin in the lungs, and an increase in fibrinolysis inhibitors associated with disease severity
Authors: Toomer Kevin H. , Gerber Gloria F. , Zhang Yifan , Daou Laetitia , Tushek Michael , Hooper Jody E. , Francischetti Ivo M. B.
Published: February 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection results in coagulation activation although it is usually not associated with consumption coagulopathy. D‐dimers are also commonly elevated despite systemic hypofibrinolysis. To understand these unusual features of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) coagulopathy, 64 adult patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (36 moderate and 28 severe) and 16 controls were studied. We evaluated the repertoire of plasma protease inhibitors (Serpins, Kunitz, Kazal, Cystatin‐like) targeting the fibrinolytic system: Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), Tissue Plasminogen Activator/Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor‐1 complex (t‐PA/PAI‐1), α‐2‐Antiplasmin, Plasmin‐α2‐Antiplasmin Complex, Thrombin‐activatable Fibrinolysis Inhibitor (TAFI)/TAFIa, Protease Nexin‐1 (PN‐1), and Neuroserpin (the main t‐PA inhibitor of the central nervous system). Inhibitors of the common (Antithrombin, Thrombin‐antithrombin complex, Protein Z [PZ]/PZ inhibitor, Heparin Cofactor II, and α2‐Macroglobulin), Protein C ([PC], Protein C inhibitor, and Protein S), contact (Kallistatin, Protease Nexin‐2/Amyloid Beta Precursor Protein, and α‐1‐Antitrypsin), and complement (C1‐Inhibitor) pathways, in addition to Factor XIII, Histidine‐rich glycoprotein (HRG) and Vaspin were also investigated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The association of these markers with disease severity was evaluated by logistic regression. Pulmonary expression of PAI‐1 and Neuroserpin in the lungs from eight post‐mortem cases was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results show that six patients (10%) developed thrombotic events, and mortality was 11%. There was no significant reduction in plasma anticoagulants, in keeping with a compensated state. However, an increase in fibrinolysis inhibitors (PAI‐1, Neuroserpin, PN‐1, PAP, and t‐PA/PAI‐1) was consistently observed, while HRG was reduced. Furthermore, these markers were associated with moderate and/or severe disease. Notably, immunostains demonstrated overexpression of PAI‐1 in epithelial cells, macrophages, and endothelial cells of fatal COVID‐19, while Neuroserpin was found in intraalveolar macrophages only. These results imply that the lungs in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection provide anti‐fibrinolytic activity resulting in a shift toward a local and systemic hypofibrinolytic state predisposing to (immuno)thrombosis, often in a background of compensated disseminated intravascular coagulation.
Imidazolium‐methylene‐trifluoroborate: A novel radioprosthetic group validated with preclinical 18F‐Positron Emission Tomography imaging of Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen in mice
Authors: Lozada Jerome , Kuo Hsiou‐Ting , Lin Wen Xuan , Lin Kuo‐Shyan , Bénard François , Perrin David M.
Published: February 2023

Organotrifluoroborates have gained acceptance as radioprosthetic groups for radiofluorination. Of these, the zwitterionic prosthetic group “AMBF3” with a quaternary dimethylammonium ion dominates the trifluoroborate space. Herein, we report on imidazolium‐methylene trifluoroborate (ImMBF3) as an alternative radioprosthetic group and report on its properties in the context of a PSMA‐targeting EUK ligand that was previously been conjugated to AMBF3. The ImMBF3 is readily synthesized from imidazole and conjugated via CuAAC “click” chemistry to give a structure similar to PSMA‐617. 18F‐labeling proceeded in one step per our previous reports and imaged in LNCaP‐xenograft bearing mice. The [18F]‐PSMA‐617‐ImMBF3 tracer proved to be less polar (LogP7.4 = −2.95 ± 0.03) while showing a significantly lower solvolytic rate (t1/2 = 8100 min) and slightly higher molar activity (Am) at 174 ± 38 GBq/μmol. Tumor uptake was measured at 13.7 ± 4.8%ID/g and a tumor:muscle ratio of 74.2 ± 35.0, tumor:blood ratio of 21.4 ± 7.0, tumor:kidney ratio of 0.29 ± 0.14, and tumor:bone ratio of 23.5 ± 9.5. In comparison with previously reported PSMA‐targeting EUK‐AMBF3 conjugates, we have altered the LogP7.4 value, tuned the solvolytic half‐life of the prosthetic, and increased radiochemical conversion while achieving similar tumor uptake, contrast ratios, and molar activities compared with AMBF3 bioconjugates.
Modeling the impact of techno‐stress and burnout on employees’ work‐life balance and turnover intention: A job demands‐resources theory perspective
Authors: Sharma Indu , Tiwari Vivek
Published: February 2023

In an increasingly digitized work environment, techno‐stress is becoming one of the most important concerns for employees. Based on the premise of job demands‐resources (JD‐R) theory, this study looks to determine how techno‐stressors affect employees’ work‐life balance (WLB) and turnover intention through burnout; and to what level positive psychological capital could moderate this relationship. We gathered data in a time‐lagged approach from 528 employees of Indian IT companies. To test the hypotheses, we applied a moderation‐mediation model. Further, the statistical analysis of the aforementioned associations was carried out using Smart‐partial least squares (PLS). The results suggest that burnout does mediate the relationship between techno‐stress and employees’ WLB. Secondly, psychological capital as a resource does moderate the impact of techno‐stress on burnout. Through these findings, the authors contribute to an extant literature by emphasizing the significance of recognizing techno‐stress, and managing technology‐induced burnout along with theoretical and practical implications offered.
Reduced breeding densities associated with spatially concentrated harvest of willow ptarmigan in Alaska
Authors: Frye Graham G. , Lindberg Mark S. , Merizon Richard A.
Published: February 2023

Understanding the effects of harvest on wildlife populations is fundamental to theoretical wildlife science and applied wildlife management. Demographic compensation plays a key role in models of wildlife population dynamics and in developing harvest strategies. The degree and form of compensation in a given population depend on its particular ecological and life‐history characteristics and the timing and magnitude of harvest. Consequently, substantial variation exists in compensatory potential among populations, and it cannot be assumed that a particular population is capable of compensating for harvest. This underscores the importance of population‐specific assessments of responses to harvest. We examined the hypothesis that concentrated hunting pressure in road‐accessible areas reduces subsequent breeding season densities of willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus), in Alaska, USA, 2014–2015. We estimated breeding season densities of ptarmigan territories at sites within hunted access corridors and at remote sites with little or no hunting pressure. Estimated densities were substantially higher at remote sites (5.3–5.8 territories/km2) than at accessible sites (1.8–3.7 territories/km2). Two habitat‐proxy covariates, distance to water and elevation (modeled as smoothed effects), exhibited strong associations with the density of ptarmigan territories. These results suggest a possible additive effect of spatially concentrated harvest on local breeding densities.
The Topology of Polymer Brushes Determines Their Nanoscale Hydration
Authors: Vagias Apostolos , Nelson Andrew , Wang Peixi , Reitenbach Julija , Geiger Christina , Kreuzer Lucas Philipp , Saerbeck Thomas , Cubitt Robert , Benetti Edmondo Maria , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: February 2023

Time‐of‐flight neutron reflectometry (ToF‐NR) performed under different relative humidity conditions demonstrates that polymer brushes constituted by hydrophilic, cyclic macromolecules exhibit a more compact conformation with lower roughness as compared to linear brush analogues, due to the absence of dangling chain ends extending at the polymer–vapor interface. In addition, cyclic brushes feature a larger swelling ratio and an increased solvent uptake with respect to their linear counterparts as a consequence of the increased interchain steric repulsions. It is proposed that differences in swelling ratios between linear and cyclic brushes come from differences in osmotic pressure experienced by each brush topology. These differences stem from entropic constraints. The findings suggest that to correlate the equilibrium swelling ratios at different relative humidity for different topologies a new form of the Flory‐like expression for equilibrium thicknesses of grafted brushes is needed.
Emergence and Stability of Hierarchical Structures under Cylindrical Confinement
Authors: Chen Tiancheng , Xu Yuci
Published: February 2023

Focusing on the formation of hierarchical structure under cylindrical confinement, the self‐assembly of A(BC)2B multiblock copolymer of chain length N in a nanopore with size R is studied using the self‐consistent field theory. The hierarchical concentric ring (HCk), hierarchical perforated cylinder (HPk), hierarchical helix (HHk), and even hierarchical disk (HDk) is obtained with different number of mid‐thin layers k via a proposed design principle. The results show that large pore size and χAB favor the hierarchical structure with more k, while χBC prefers hierarchical structure with less k, consistent with the results of hierarchical structure in bulk. By investigating the effect of the volume fraction of the tail A block (fA), the phase transition sequence, HCk → HPk → HHk → HDk is explored, which shares the same transition of multiblock copolymer in bulk with Lk → Gk → Ck → Sk. Finally, the phase diagram with respect to the fA and R is explored, where the stability regime of these hierarchical structures is well understood. The results provide a compelling panacea for the fabrication of hierarchical 3D nanostructures under confinement.
Changes in electrophysiological findings suggestive of demyelination following Guillain‐Barré syndrome: A retrospective study
Authors: Guémy Clément , Durand Marie‐Christine , Brisset Marion , Nicolas Guillaume
Published: February 2023

Introduction/Aims

Acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP) is the most common form of Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) in Western countries. However, electrophysiological descriptions of changes in abnormalities suggestive of demyelination after an AIDP episode are rare. We aimed to describe the clinical and electrophysiological features of AIDP patients after the acute episode, to investigate changes in abnormalities suggestive of demyelination and to compare with electrophysiological features of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP).

Methods

We reviewed the clinical and electrophysiological characteristics of 61 patients followed at regular intervals after the AIDP episode.

Results

We detected early electrophysiological abnormalities from the first nerve conduction studies (NCS) performed before 3 wk. Abnormalities suggestive of demyelination worsened on subsequent examinations. This worsening continued after more than 3 mo of follow‐up for some parameters. We also found the persistence of abnormalities suggestive of demyelination for long periods after the acute episode, beyond 18 mo of follow‐up, despite clinical improvement in most patients.

Discussion

In AIDP, NCS findings continue to worsen several weeks or even months after the onset of symptoms, and “CIDP‐like” abnormalities suggestive of demyelination may persist for a long period of time, in contrast to the existing literature and the usually favorable clinical course. Thus, the discovery of conduction abnormalities on NCS performed long after an AIDP should always be interpreted according to the clinical context and not systematically lead to a diagnosis of CIDP.
The impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 immunization on COVID‐19 disease course in people with myasthenia gravis
Authors: Bakirtzis Christos , Boziki Marina‐Kleopatra , Karakasi Maria‐Valeria , Moysiadis Theodoros , Grigoriadis Nikolaos
Published: February 2023

Introduction/Aims

There is limited knowledge regarding the impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccines οn coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) disease course in people with myasthenia gravis. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination influences hospitalization and mortality due to COVID‐19 in this population.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of administrative data extracted from the Greek nationwide database that holds the COVID‐19 disease and vaccination registry, as well as all medical prescription records. The study period extended from the onset of the pandemic (February 2020) until the 10th of January 2022.

Results

We identified 278 people with myasthenia gravis (mean age 58.1 ± 17.2, 47.5% males) who tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2. Of those, 139 (50%) were not vaccinated at the time of infection. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis showed that the probability of hospitalization increased with age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.058; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.036–1.080; p < .001) and immunosuppressive treatment (OR: 2.872; 95% CI 1.412–5.839; p = .004), and decreased with vaccination (OR: 0.244; 95% CI 0.132–0.453; p < .001). The probability of a fatal outcome increased with age (OR: 1.085; 95% CI 1.043–1.129; p < .001) and decreased with vaccination (OR: 0.315; 95% CI 0.125–0.791; p = .014).

Discussion

SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination significantly reduces hospitalization and mortality due to COVID‐19 in people with myasthenia gravis. This study regarding the efficacy of these vaccines, together with previous studies regarding their safety, provide evidence to support their use in people with myasthenia gravis.
Trends in Timing and Provision of Pediatric Cochlear Implant Care During COVID‐19
Authors: Noij Kimberley S. , Huang Emily Y. , Walsh Jonathan , Creighton Francis X. , Galaiya Deepa , Bowditch Stephen P. , Stewart C. Matthew , Jenks Carolyn M.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To identify trends in timing of pediatric cochlear implant (CI) care during COVID‐19.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Methods

Patients under 18 years of age who underwent CI between 1/1/2016 and 2/29/2020 were included in the pre‐COVID‐19 group, and patients implanted between 3/1/2020 and 12/31/2021 comprised the COVID‐19 group. Revision and sequential surgeries were excluded. Time intervals between care milestones including severe‐to‐profound hearing loss diagnosis, initial CI candidacy evaluation, and surgery were compared among groups, as were the number and type of postoperative visits.

Results

A total of 98 patients met criteria; 70 were implanted pre‐COVID‐19 and 28 during COVID‐19. A significant increase in the interval between CI candidacy evaluation and surgery was seen among patients with prelingual deafness during COVID‐19 compared with pre‐COVID‐19 (µ = 47.3 weeks, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 34.8‐59.9 vs µ = 20.5 weeks, 95% CI: 13.1‐27.9; p < .001). Patients in the COVID‐19 group attended fewer in‐person rehabilitation visits in the 12 months after surgery (µ = 14.9 visits, 95% CI: 9.7‐20.1 vs µ = 20.9, 95% CI: 18.1‐23.7; p = .04). Average age at implantation in the COVID‐19 group was 5.7 years (95% CI: 4.0‐7.5) versus 3.7 years in the pre‐COVID‐19 group (95% CI: 2.9‐4.6; p = .05). The time interval between hearing loss confirmation and CI surgery was on average 99.7 weeks for patients implanted during COVID‐19 (95% CI: 48.8‐150) versus 54.2 weeks for patients implanted pre‐COVID (95% CI: 39.6‐68.8), which was not a statistically significant difference (p = .1).

Conclusion

During the COVID‐19 pandemic patients with prelingual deafness experienced delays in care relative to patients implanted before the pandemic.
Nasal Swell Body Characteristics in Patients With Septal Perforation
Authors: Brake Daniela A. , Snider Sam , Miglani Amar , Hamilton Grant S. , Bansberg Stephen F.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To determine whether septal perforations have an effect on nasal swell body (NSB) size.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Two tertiary academic medical centers.

Methods

Computed tomography maxillofacial scans of 126 patients with septal perforation and 140 control patients from November 2010 to December 2020 were evaluated. Perforation etiology was determined. Measurements included perforation length and height and swell body width, height, and length. Swell body volume was calculated.

Results

The width and volume of the NSB are significantly smaller in perforation patients when compared to controls. The swell body is significantly smaller and thinner in perforations exceeding 14 mm in height compared to small perforations. Perforation etiology groupings into prior septal surgery, septal trauma, septal inflammatory, and mucosal vasoconstriction categories all demonstrated decreased swell body volume and width compared to controls. Inflammatory etiology had the greatest decrease in swell body size. The hemi‐swell body on the contralateral side of a septal deviation is significantly thicker than the ipsilateral side.

Conclusion

The NSB is smaller in patients with septal perforation regardless of perforation size or etiology.
Social determinants of neurocognitive and academic performance in sickle cell disease
Authors: Heitzer Andrew M. , Okhomina Victoria I. , Trpchevska Ana , MacArthur Erin , Longoria Jennifer , Potter Brian , Raches Darcy , Johnson Ayanna , Porter Jerlym S. , Kang Guolian , Hankins Jane S.
Published: February 2023

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with poor neurocognitive outcomes due to biomedical and psychosocial factors. The aims of this study were to investigate associations between household and neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES) with cognitive and academic outcomes in SCD and to determine if these relationships were modified by sickle genotype, fetal hemoglobin, or age.

Procedure

We prospectively recruited patients to complete a battery of neurocognitive and academic measures. Household SES was measured using the Barratt Simplified Measure of Social Status, a composite index of parent education and occupation. The Social Vulnerability Index was used to classify individuals based on social vulnerabilities at the neighborhood level.

Results

Overall, 299 patients between the ages of 4 and 18 (mean = 11.4, standard deviation = 4.3) years diagnosed with SCD (57% SS/SB0‐thalassemia) completed testing. Stepwise multivariate models demonstrated that patients with low social vulnerability (i.e., high SES) at the neighborhood level displayed intelligence and math scores that were 4.70 and 7.64 points higher than those living in areas with moderate social vulnerability, respectively (p < .05). Reading performance did not differ based on neighborhood SES; however, the effect of neighborhood SES was dependent on age, such that older participants living in neighborhoods with moderate or high levels of social vulnerability displayed poorer reading scores than those with low social vulnerability (p < .05).

Conclusions

This study identified patients with SCD at higher risk of poor academic performance based on SES. Interventions addressing academic difficulties should be offered to all children with SCD, but should be emergently offered to this subpopulation.
Performance analysis of polycrystalline floating photovoltaic array: The concept and prototype development for irrigation purpose
Authors: Anbarasu P. , Suresh Kumar R.
Published: February 2023

The concept and design of the 2 kWp polycrystalline floating photovoltaic (PV) system for agricultural irrigation purposes are presented in this paper. The well‐known major advantage of the floating PV system is its installation in the presence of water, which leads to cooling of the PV system that improves its efficiency. In addition to that, the floating PV system reduces the wastage of cultivation area required for its installation, and also, it reduces evaporation of water (for 20% of float cover) by the factor of 22.23 cm/year. But the floating PV systems face some confrontations such as low electrical reliability and reduced life of the mechanical structure due to nearby water surface. As an attempt to overcome the above issues, a small‐scale floating PV system prototype in a water reservoir at Kothavadi village, Tamil Nadu, India has been developed. The system comprises of a floater, mechanical structure, PV module, supporting anchor, under water cable, and motor. The power generated out of this proposed system is utilized for pumping the water from a nearby bore well, and pumped water is stored in the same reservoir where the floating PV system is installed. The water in the reservoir can be used by the farmer for their necessity. In this study, the energy production (month by month) is monitored. Furthermore, the economic analysis and PV modeling have been performed along with some maintenance aspects. The study helps the scientists and engineers to comprehend the performance and commercial viability of floating PV for rural farmers. It is anticipated that this work will inspire and direct farmers to install a floating PV irrigation system as a perfect alternate for the conventional systems.
Design, synthesis and screening of herbicidal activity for new phenyl pyrazole‐based protoporphyrinogen oxidase‐inhibitors (PPO) overcoming resistance issues
Authors: Mattison Rebecca L. , Beffa Roland , Bojack Guido , Bollenbach‐Wahl Birgit , Dörnbrack Christine , Dorn Nicole , Freigang Jörg , Gatzweiler Elmar , Getachew Rahel , Hartfiel Claudia , Heinemann Ines , Helmke Hendrik , Hohmann Sabine , Jakobi Harald , Lange Gudrun , Lümmen Peter , Willms Lothar , Frackenpohl Jens
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Whilst there are several methods to control weeds, which continuously plague farmers around the globe, the application of small molecular compounds is still the most effective technology to date. Plants can evolve to become resistant to PPO‐inhibitors, a class of herbicides in commercial use since the 1960s. It is therefore essential to continuously develop new herbicides based on this mode‐of‐action with enhanced intrinsic activity, an improved resistance profile and favourable physicochemical properties. Based on an Amaranthus PPO crystal structure and subsequent modelling studies, halogen‐substituted pyrazoles have been investigated as isosteres of uracil‐based PPO‐inhibitors.

RESULTS

By combining structural features from the commercial PPO‐inhibitors tiafenacil and pyraflufen‐ethyl and by investigating receptor‐binding properties, we identified new promising pyrazole‐based lead structures showing strong activityin vitroandin vivoagainst economically important weeds of theAmaranthusgenus:A. retroflexus, and resistantA. palmeriandA. tuberculatus.

CONCLUSION

The present work covers a series of novel PPO‐inhibiting compounds that contain a pyrazole ring and a substituted thioacetic acid sidechain attached to the core phenyl group. These compounds show good receptor fit in line with excellent herbicidal activity against weeds that plague corn and rice crops with low application rates. This, in combination with promising selectivity in corn, have the potential to mitigate and affect weeds that have become resistant to some of the current market standards. Remarkably, some of the novel PPO‐inhibitors outlined herein show efficacies against economically important weeds that were superior to recently commercialized and structurally related tiafenacil. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Simulation of Grover Search with Polar CH3CN Molecules by Optimal Control Fields
Authors: Zhang Zuo‐Yuan , Sun Zhaoxi , Hu Jie‐Ru , Liu Jin‐Ming
Published: February 2023

Theoretical schemes for the implementation of the Grover search algorithm are proposed based on ultracold polar molecules in an electric field. The molecular qubits and qudit are chosen as the field‐dressed states formed by the rotational modes of CH3CN. With the help of multi‐target optimal control theory, the microwave pulses for the elementary logic operations including the one‐qubit Hadamard gates and the conditional phase gates in a dipole‐dipole system are designed and the factorized Grover algorithm demonstrated using two coupled CH3CN molecules. To reduce the accumulation of imprecision and decoherence resulting from the combination of multiple elementary gates, the optimal pulses that can achieve the two‐qubit Hadamard gate and diffusion operation in one step are designed successfully. In this way, the probabilities to find the states corresponding to the desired elements in an unsorted database are enhanced to some extent. Moreover, the optimal pulse sequence suitable for a four‐level molecular qudit, which can be used to simulate the quantum search on a single CH3CN molecule with high fidelity, is designed. These results can shed some light on the physical realization of quantum computing based on ultracold polyatomic molecules.
Evaluation of the efficacy of creatine chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging in assessing testicular maturity
Authors: Kuribayashi Sohei , Fukuhara Shinichiro , Tsujimura Go , Imanaka Takahiro , Okada Koichi , Ueda Norichika , Takezawa Kentaro , Kiuchi Hiroshi , Saito Shigeyoshi , Takahashi Yusuke , Kioka Hidetaka , Oura Seiya , Shimada Keisuke , Ikawa Masahito , Nonomura Norio
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Microscopic testicular sperm extraction is the most effective treatment for NOA, but the sperm retrieval rate is low and depends on testicular maturity. However, there are limited useful tests to assess testicular maturity. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging is a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique that can image the distribution of trace substances in vivo. We focused on the potential role of creatine (Cr) in testes and hypothesized that Cr‐CEST could indicate intratesticular spermatogenesis.

Methods

We performed Cr‐CEST by using 7T MRI on wild‐type C57B6/J mice and several types of male infertility models such as Sertoli‐cell only (SCO) (Kitw/Kitwv), maturation arrest (MA) (Zfp541 knockout mouse and Kctd19 knockout mouse), and teratozoospermia (Tbc1d21 knockout mouse). After performing Cr‐CEST, histological analysis was performed.

Results

The SCO and MA models showed decreased CEST signal intensity (p < 0.05), while no reduction was observed in the teratozoospermia model (p = 1.0). CEST signal intensity increased as the spermatogenesis stage progressed from the SCO model to the MA and teratozoospermia models. Furthermore, CEST signal intensity was reduced in 4‐week‐old wild‐type mice with immature testes (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study suggests that Cr‐CEST evaluates intratesticular spermatogenesis noninvasively and provides a new therapeutic strategy for treating male infertility.
Improvement of oocyte quality through the SIRT signaling pathway
Authors: Vo Kim Cat Tuyen , Sato Yorino , Kawamura Kazuhiro
Published: February 2023

Background

Oocyte quality is one of the major deciding factors in female fertility competence.

Methods

PubMed database was searched for reviews by using the following keyword “oocyte quality” AND “Sirtuins”. The methodological quality of each literature review was assessed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement.

Main Findings

Oxidative stress has been recognized as the mechanism attenuating oocyte quality. Increasing evidence from animal experiments and clinical studies has confirmed the protective roles of the sirtuin family in improving oocyte quality via an antioxidant effect.

Conclusion

The protective roles in the oocyte quality of the sirtuin family have been increasingly recognized.
Ranking of average treatment effects with generalized random forests for time‐to‐event outcomes
Authors: Rytgaard Helene C. W. , Ekstrøm Claus T. , Kessing Lars V. , Gerds Thomas A.
Published: February 2023

Linkage between drug claims data and clinical outcome allows a data‐driven experimental approach to drug repurposing. We develop an estimation procedure based on generalized random forests for estimation of time‐point specific average treatment effects in a time‐to‐event setting with competing risks. To handle right‐censoring, we propose a two‐step procedure for estimation, applying inverse probability weighting to construct time‐point specific weighted outcomes as input for the generalized random forest. The generalized random forests adaptively handle covariate effects on the treatment assignment by applying a splitting rule that targets a causal parameter. Using simulated data we demonstrate that the method is effective for a causal search through a list of treatments to be ranked according to the magnitude of their effect on clinical outcome. We illustrate the method using the Danish national health registries where it is of interest to discover drugs with an unexpected protective effect against relapse of severe depression.
A Fluorinated‐Polyimide‐Based Composite Nanofibrous Separator with Homogenized Pore Size for Wide‐Temperature Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Qian Yushan , Chen Kai , Feng Zhixin , Ouyang Yue , Lan Qianqian , Zhang Chao , Feng Wei , Miao Yue-E , Liu Tianxi
Published: February 2023

Lithium (Li) is known for excellent theoretical specific capacity and most negative electrochemical potential, while still restricted by the irregular lithium dendrites and safety risks in practical applications of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) due to thermal runaway. Herein, a fluorinated‐polyimide (F‐PI)‐based composite nanofibrous separator containing poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) component, which is designed as PVDF/F‐PI, is developed via a facile electrospinning strategy for wide‐temperature LMBs. First, abundant polar trifluoromethyl (–CF3) groups in F‐PI create an electronegative environment to facilitate rapid Li‐ions (Li+) transport. Meanwhile, the PVDF component, acting as both the physical linker between F‐PI nanofibers and the regulator of homogenized pore size, simultaneously improves the mechanical properties and homogenizes the Li+ flux on the electrode surface. Therefore, a steady circulation of 2400 h is achieved for the symmetric cell using PVDF/F‐PI separator, which still displays a stable cycle life with a low voltage polarization of 15 mV in 1000 h even under 60 °C. Therefore, the fluorinated‐PI‐based composite nanofibrous separator with high ionic conductivity and uniform pore structure offers a practical method for design of functionalized separators in wide‐temperature LMB applications.
Obsessive‐compulsive disorder and men's health. Part 2: Treatment and related sexual dysfunction
Authors: Conti Dario , Pellegrini Luca , Riaz Maham , Mpavaenda David , Sim Alex , Fineberg Naomi
Published: February 2023

Obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) commonly affects males and can manifest with a range of urological symptoms directly linked to the content of the OCD. In Part 1 of this article, the authors discussed the recognition and diagnosis of OCD. In Part 2 here, they consider its treatment and related sexual dysfunction.
The Komagatella phaffii ACG1 gene, encoding β‐1,6‐N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase, is involved in the autophagy of cytosolic and peroxisomal proteins
Authors: Zazulya Anastasiya Z. , Semkiv Marta V. , Stec Maxim , Cyske Zuzanna , Gaffke Lidia , Pierzynowska Karolina , Węgrzyn Grzegorz , Sibirny Andriy A.
Published: February 2023

The methylotrophic yeast Komagataella phaffii is considered one of the most effective producers of recombinant proteins of industrial importance. Effective producers should be characterized by the maximal reduction of degradation of the cytosolic recombinant proteins. The mechanisms of degradation of cytosolic proteins in K. phaffii have not been elucidated; however, data suggest that they are partially degraded in the autophagic pathway. To identify factors that influence this process, a developed system for the selection of recombinant strains of K. phaffii with impaired autophagic degradation of the heterologous model cytosolic protein (yeast β‐galactosidase) was used for insertional tagging of the genes involved in cytosolic proteins degradation. In one of the obtained strains, the insertion cassette disrupted the open reading frame of the gene encoding β‐1,6‐N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase. A recombinant strain with deletion of this gene was also obtained. The rate of degradation of the β‐galactosidase enzyme was two times slower in the insertion mutant and 1.5 times slower in the deletion strain as compared to the parental strain with native β‐1,6‐N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase. The rate of degradation of native K. phaffii cytosolic and peroxisomal enzymes, formaldehyde dehydrogenase, formate dehydrogenase, and alcohol oxidase, respectively, showed similar trends to that of β‐galactosidase—slower degradation in the deletion and insertional mutants as compared to the wild‐type strain, but faster protein degradation relative to the strain completely defective in autophagy. We conclude that K. phaffii gene designated ACG1, encoding β‐1,6‐N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase, is involved in autophagy of the cytosolic and peroxisomal proteins.
$$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM, (super)-polynomial rings and emergent quantum mechanical symmetries
Authors: de Mello Koch Robert , Ramgoolam Sanjaye
Published: February 2023

Abstract

The structure of half-BPS representations of psu(2, 2|4) leads to the definition of a super-polynomial ring $$ \mathcal{R} $$
R
(8|8) which admits a realisation of psu(2, 2|4) in terms of differential operators on the super-ring. The character of the half-BPS fundamental field representation encodes the resolution of the representation in terms of an exact sequence of modules of $$ \mathcal{R} $$
R
(8|8). The half-BPS representation is realized by quotienting the super-ring by a quadratic ideal, equivalently by setting to zero certain quadratic polynomials in the generators of the super-ring. This description of the half-BPS fundamental field irreducible representation of psu(2, 2|4) in terms of a super-polynomial ring is an example of a more general construction of lowest-weight representations of Lie (super-) algebras using polynomial rings generated by a commuting subspace of the standard raising operators, corresponding to positive roots of the Lie (super-) algebra. We illustrate the construction using simple examples of representations of su(3) and su(4). These results lead to the definition of a notion of quantum mechanical emergence for oscillator realisations of symmetries, which is based on ideals in the ring of polynomials in the creation operators.
Ergebnisse eines monozentrischen Gefäßscreeningprogramms in Deutschland
Authors: Passek K. , Ronellenfitsch U. , Meisenbacher K. , Peters A. , Böckler D.
Published: February 2023

Hintergrund

Kardiovaskuläre Erkrankungen sind die häufigste Todesursache in Europa mit relevanter sozioökonomischer Belastung. Ein Screeningprogramm für Gefäßerkrankungen bei asymptomatischen Personen mit definierter Risikokonstellation kann zu einer frühen Diagnose führen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Die Studie untersucht ein Screeningprogramm auf Karotisstenosen, periphere arterielle Verschlusskrankheit (pAVK) und abdominelle Aortenaneurysmen (AAA) bei Menschen ohne anamnestisch bekannte arterielle Gefäßerkrankungen hinsichtlich demografischer Daten, Risikofaktoren, Vorerkrankungen, Medikamenteneinnahme sowie Detektion und Therapie pathologischer Befunde.

Material und Methoden

Probanden wurden durch verschiedene Informationsmaterialien eingeladen, ein Fragebogen erfasste kardiovaskuläre Risikofaktoren. Das Screening erfolgte mit ABI-Messung und Duplexsonographie als monozentrische, prospektive, einarmige Studie innerhalb eines Jahres. Endpunkte waren die Prävalenz von Risikofaktoren, pathologische und/oder behandlungsbedürftige Befunde.

Ergebnisse

Es nahmen 391 Personen teil, bei 36,0 % bestand mindestens ein kardiovaskulärer Risikofaktor, 35,5 % wiesen zwei und 14,4 % drei oder mehr auf. Aus der Sonographie der Karotiden resultierte bei 9 % ein kontrollbedürftiger Befund mit einer < 50%igen bis > 75%igen Stenose oder eines Verschlusses. Ein AAA mit einem Durchmesser von 3,0–4,5 cm wurde bei 0,9 % nachgewiesen, ein pathologischer ABI < 0,9 oder > 1,3 bei 12,3 %. Bei 17,0 % bestand befundbasiert die Indikation einer Pharmakotherapie, bei keinem die einer Operation.

Diskussion

Es zeigte sich die Durchführbarkeit eines Screeningprogramms auf das Vorliegen einer Karotisstenose, einer pAVK und eines AAA bei definierten Risikopersonen. Es wurden kaum behandlungsbedürftige Gefäßpathologien im Einzugsgebiet der Klinik nachgewiesen, sodass ein Einsatz des Programms in Deutschland in dieser Form derzeit auf Basis der Daten nicht empfohlen werden kann.
Neonatale Herpesinfektion mit akutem Leberversagen
Authors: Tavakolipoor Pulad , Kleiner Svea , Sasse Michael
Published: February 2023

Weltweit beträgt die Inzidenz neonataler Herpes-simplex-Virus(HSV)-Infektionen 10/100.000 Lebendgeburten. Schwere Infektionen bei Neonaten treten in erster Linie bei einer mütterlichen Primärinfektion während der Schwangerschaft auf. In der Literatur wird eine Mortalität unbehandelter disseminierter neonataler HSV-Infektionen bis zu 85 % beschrieben. Die frühe differenzialdiagnostische Einbeziehung einer HSV-Infektion beim kranken Neugeborenen und bei neonatalem Leberversagen sowie der niederschwellige Beginn einer hochdosierten Aciclovirtherapie sind von essenzieller Bedeutung. Dieser Fallbericht beschreibt einen Patienten mit einer schweren disseminierten HSV-Infektion und primärer Leberbeteiligung, der in unserem Zentrum behandelt wurde und ohne Lebertransplantation überlebt hat.
Cancellous compression bone grafting using headless screw as a strut in scaphoid nonunion by a single volar approach
Authors: Bhat Anil K. , Shetty Sourab , Acharya Ashwath M.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

An array of fixation and grafting techniques for scaphoid nonunion have been described over time, achieving varied results pertaining to union and scaphoid alignment. The aim of this study was to check for union rates and correction of scaphoid parameters achieved by our technique of using screw as a strut and cancellous compression grafting harvested from the distal radius by a single volar approach.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of all patients operated by the said technique was done from 2013 to 2019. Thirty-eight patients including 36 males and two females in the age range of 20–56 years were analyzed. Union rates, change in scaphoid alignment parameters and graft site characteristics were documented.

Results

Of the patients analyzed, 5/38 were nonunions of proximal pole, 19/38 of waist and 14/38 were of distal pole which included nonunions of cystic type or with humpback deformity. Patients were followed up for an average of 22.2 months and union was achieved in all cases with a mean period of 15.7 ± 3.7 weeks. There was significant improvement in the scaphoid alignment postoperatively. One case of implant migration and one case of scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse were noted. The mean duration of donor site healing was noted to be 16.9 ± 2.5 weeks except two outliers which took longer time. There were no cases of donor site fracture or other complications.

Conclusion

Union rates, correction of scaphoid parameters and minimal complications justifies this technique as a novel one in the management of scaphoid nonunion at all levels, with minimal donor site morbidity and attained by the single volar approach.
Opinions, training and requirements regarding ICT of educators in Florence and Granada for students with functional diversity
Authors: Gallardo-Montes Carmen del Pilar , Caurcel Cara María Jesús , Rodríguez Fuentes Antonio , Capperucci Davide
Published: February 2023

Information and communication technology (ICT) is a means of learning for people with functional diversity (FD), in the context of both formal and non-formal education. These digital options favor their inclusion, participation and motivation, so having competent professionals in the field of educational technology is crucial for the full development of this population. Within this framework, the opinion, training and requirements regarding ICT of 809 educators in Florence (Italy) and Granada (Spain) were analyzed, following a quantitative study, with a non-experimental, descriptive, cross-sectional and comparative design. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation and mode) and frequencies were used. After checking the normality of the data (Kolmogórov–Smirnov test), inferential analyses were performed, applying Student's t- test and one-factor ANOVA, calculating the effect size (Cohen’s d and eta squared). Statistically significant differences were found according to city of origin, gender, and years of experience with students with FD. The results point to the need for different educators to have sufficient technological training, as despite being aware of the functionalities of ICT and having a favorable opinion of them, resources and knowledge about their use fall short of what is desirable.
Hygieia model: development of a three-dimensional model for the standardized analysis of infection control protocols
Authors: Sakschewski Thomas , Winkelmann Claudia
Published: February 2023

Aim

Until now, there have been no standardized guidelines for the content of infection control protocols. The aim of this research project is therefore to develop a standardized model for the evaluation and analysis of three dimensions: setting, protection targets, and precautions.

Subject and methods

Events are part of social life and, as such, have a direct or indirect impact on the physical, mental, and social health of all involved groups (employees, artists, subcontractors, visitors, etc.). Valid infection control protocols for events must reduce the risk of infection in general, not only in a pandemic. A range of handouts and recommendations are available, mostly focusing on the visitors.

For the present study, a total of 46 infection control protocols for events, hosted in the period between 2020 and 2021 in Germany, were analyzed from June to December 2021. The infection control protocols provide what was needed to realize events.

Results

For the first time, a standardized model, called the Hygieia model, is presented for the evaluation and analysis of three dimensions: setting, protection targets of the involved groups, and precautions. Taking all three dimensions into account enables the assessment of existing pandemic safety protocols as well as the development of valid protocols in terms of effectiveness and efficiency.

Conclusion

The Hygieia model can be used for risk assessment of events from conferences to concerts, especially for infection prevention under pandemic conditions.
The ‘lawnification’ of Australia’s eastern grassy woodlands: the past, current and likely future spread of an invasive perennial grass, Bothriochloa pertusa
Authors: Lebbink Gabrielle , Fensham Rod
Published: February 2023

Many of today’s damaging invasive plants were intentionally introduced for pasture development and amenity. By examining the introduction history and consequent spread of these species, we can identify factors associated with their successful establishment and dominance. Using collated presence/absence and cover data, alongside a review of the literature and discussions with land managers, we present a comprehensive analysis of the introduction history and spread of the environmental and agricultural grassy weed, Bothriochloa pertusa (L.) A.Camus (Indian couch) throughout Queensland, Australia. Using this data, we also perform habitat suitability models to predict its potential distribution and local-scale cover across Queensland in relation to key environmental variables. We found that B. pertusa was introduced on multiple occasions and across a large area of Queensland, despite re-occurring doubts and poor evidence for its benefit to livestock production. Livestock grazing, associated disturbances (i.e. land clearing, soil erosion) and climatic extremes were commonly associated with its spread throughout the landscape. In 2020 the main area of B. pertusa invasion as indicated by occurrence records spanned 28,537,600 ha. Results from the habitat suitability models suggest the occurrence and local-scale cover of B. pertusa is largely determined by climate variables and the foliage projective cover of trees. Based on these results B. pertusa still has considerable capacity to spread and increase in dominance across many areas of Queensland, particularly further west and south of its current range. The introduction and spread history of B. pertusa suggests propagule pressure, traits, climate, land management and cultural perceptions are all key factors implicated in the spread of B. pertusa. Where B. pertusa has become dominant there has been a major shift in lifeform from native perennial tussock species to a grazing tolerant stoloniferous species. To slow this process of ‘lawnification’ we recommend more conservative grazing strategies and strategically selected protected areas to maintain cover of grazing sensitive native tussock grass species.
The Treatise on Waters by Cornaro (1560) and a quantitative assessment of the historical sea surges “Acqua Alta” in Venice
Authors: Camuffo Dario
Published: February 2023

In the sixteenth century, Cornaro wrote a Treatise on Waters with personal observations and conclusions regarding the Lagoon of Venice, e.g., the sea level rise over the centuries, the difference between normal tides for astronomical forces and storm surges driven by meteorological factors, and water exchanges between the Lagoon and the Sea. He witnessed the continuous rise of the sea level since the Middle Ages and listed some public works made to adapt to this challenge, i.e., raising city paving and floors, and rebuilding bridges that had become too low. Cornaro dealt with the mark left by the algae on walls that was kept as an official (zero) reference of sea level. Using this key to measure flooding depths, and knowing the relationship between the algae front and mean sea level, a revision of the historical floods (from 1240 to 1867) is made to assess precise depths. During the deepest floods, it was possible to reach San Marco square by gondola and float on the square. The draught of past gondola types has been another key to interpret flood depths. From 1200 to 1500, the most extreme flooding depths were higher than that of 1966, i.e., the highest in the instrumental record since 1871; from 1500 to 1799, they have been quite homogeneous, close to the value observed in 1966; in the nineteenth century, they returned to be higher than that in 1966. Over eight centuries, the deepest historical floods exceeded 7 times by 40 cm the 1966 extreme depth. The city should be prepared to face this risk.
Breaking the climate spiral of silence: lessons from a COP26 climate conversations campaign
Authors: Ettinger Joshua , McGivern Alexis , Spiegel Marcus P. , King Brittany , Shawoo Zoha , Chapin Arielle , Finnegan William
Published: February 2023

Conversations about climate change are crucially important for mobilizing climate action, as well as for processing emotions and finding meaning in times of crisis. However, limited guidance exists on how to successfully facilitate these discussions, especially among individuals with a wide range of beliefs, knowledge levels, and opinions about climate change. Here, we describe the Talk Climate Change project — an Oxford University student-led climate conversation campaign associated with the 2021 United Nations COP26 meeting. Over 1000 individuals across 40 countries held climate-related discussions. They then described their discussions in submissions to an interactive conversation map (www.talkclimatechange.org), along with messages to COP26. We reflect on the campaign’s outcomes and offer advice on overcoming barriers to effective climate dialogue; how to handle emotional responses; and other considerations for catalyzing meaningful and productive climate discussions. We call for a stronger focus on training conversational skills, providing context-specific discussion resources, and empowering diverse people to have conversations about climate change among their families, friends, coworkers, and communities.