bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fibrillar α-synuclein induces neurotoxic astrocyte activation via RIP kinase signaling and NF-κB
Authors: Chou Tsui-Wen , Chang Nydia P. , Krishnagiri Medha , Patel Aisha P. , Lindman Marissa , Angel Juan P. , Kung Po-Lun , Atkins Colm , Daniels Brian P.
Published: July 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the death of midbrain dopamine neurons. The pathogenesis of PD is poorly understood, though misfolded and/or aggregated forms of the protein α-synuclein have been implicated in several neurodegenerative disease processes, including neuroinflammation and astrocyte activation. Astrocytes in the midbrain play complex roles during PD, initiating both harmful and protective processes that vary over the course of the disease. However, despite their significant regulatory roles during neurodegeneration, the cellular and molecular mechanisms that promote pathogenic astrocyte activity remain mysterious. Here, we show that α-synuclein preformed fibrils (PFFs) induce pathogenic activation of human midbrain astrocytes, marked by inflammatory transcriptional responses, downregulation of phagocytic function, and conferral of neurotoxic activity. These effects required the necroptotic kinases RIPK1 and RIPK3, but were independent of MLKL and necroptosis. Instead, both transcriptional and functional markers of astrocyte activation occurred via RIPK-dependent activation of NF-κB signaling. Our study identifies a previously unknown function for α-synuclein in promoting neurotoxic astrocyte activation, as well as new cell death-independent roles for RIP kinase signaling in the regulation of glial cell biology and neuroinflammation. Together, these findings highlight previously unappreciated molecular mechanisms of pathologic astrocyte activation and neuronal cell death with implications for Parkinsonian neurodegeneration.
Combining conventional QTL analysis and whole-exome capture-based bulk-segregant analysis provides new genetic insights into tuber sprout elongation and dormancy release in a diploid potato population
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev Kumar , McLean Karen , Colgan Richard J. , Rees Debbie , Young Stephen , Sønderkær Mads , Terry Leon A. , Turnbull Colin , Taylor Mark A. , Bryan Glenn J.
Published: July 2021

Tuber dormancy and sprouting are commercially important potato traits as long-term tuber storage is necessary to ensure year-round availability. Premature dormancy release and sprout growth in tubers during storage can result in a significant deterioration in product quality. In addition, the main chemical sprout suppressant chlorpropham has been withdrawn in Europe, necessitating alternative approaches for controlling sprouting. Breeding potato cultivars with longer dormancy and slower sprout growth is a desirable goal, although this must be tempered by the needs of the seed potato industry, where dormancy break and sprout vigour are required for rapid emergence. We have performed a detailed genetic analysis of tuber sprout growth using a diploid potato population derived from two highly heterozygous parents. A dual approach employing conventional QTL analysis allied to a combined bulk-segregant analysis (BSA) using a novel potato whole-exome capture (WEC) platform was evaluated. Tubers were assessed for sprout growth in storage at six time-points over two consecutive growing seasons. Genetic analysis revealed the presence of main QTL on five chromosomes, several of which were consistent across two growing seasons. In addition, phenotypic bulks displaying extreme sprout growth phenotypes were subjected to WEC sequencing for performing BSA. The combined BSA and WEC approach corroborated QTL locations and served to narrow the associated genomic regions, while also identifying new QTL for further investigation. Overall, our findings reveal a very complex genetic architecture for tuber sprouting and sprout growth, which has implications both for potato and other root, bulb and tuber crops where long-term storage is essential.
Prodrug strategy for enhanced therapy of central nervous system disease
Authors: Xia Xue , Zhou Yang , Gao Huile
Published: July 2021

Prodrug strategies to overcome BBB.
Designing an alkali-metal-like superatom Ca3B for ambient nitrogen reduction to ammonia
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Ling , Ye Ya-Ling , Zhang Li , Li Xiang-Hui , Yu Dan , Chen Jing-Hua , Sun Wei-Ming
Published: July 2021

An alkali-metal-like superatom Ca3B was theoretically designed and further used as a potential catalyst for nitrogen reduction under mild conditions.
SnNb2O6/NiCo-LDH Z-scheme heterojunction with regulated oxygen vacancies obtained by engineering the crystallinity for efficient and renewable photocatalytic H2 evolution
Authors: Li Hui , Zhang Jingyu , Yang Ting , Wang Yinshu , Gao Hongyu , Wang Xiaojing , Chai Zhanli
Published: July 2021

SnNb2O6/NiCo-LDH Z-scheme heterojunction with abundant oxygen vacancies exhibited highly activity and stability toward photocatalytic H2 evolution, ascribed to the regeneration of oxygen vacancy by engineering the crystallinity.
Synergistically enhanced performance of transition-metal doped Ni2P for supercapacitance and overall water splitting
Authors: Ayom Gwaza Eric , Khan Malik Dilshad , Choi Jonghyun , Gupta Ram Krishna , van Zyl Werner E. , Revaprasadu Neerish
Published: July 2021

Ni, Co and Fe dithiophosphonate complexes were synthesized to prepare pristine Ni2P, Co-Ni2P and Fe-Ni2P nanoparticles. The potential of synthesized materials was tested for supercapacitance and overall water splitting and the materials showed excellent activity.
DFT studies on Ni-catalyzed intermolecular cycloaddition of diynes with methyleneaziridines
Authors: Lai Xiaoling , Hu Mengwei , Li Yang
Published: July 2021

The preferred catalytic cycle of Ni-catalyzed intermolecular cycloaddition of diynes with methyleneaziridines shows a combination of the cod dissociative mechanism and the cod associative mechanism.
Catalytic water oxidation by an in situ generated ruthenium nitrosyl complex bearing a bipyridine-bis(alkoxide) ligand
Authors: Liu Yingying , Ng Siu-Mui , Yiu Shek-Man , Lau Tai-Chu
Published: July 2021

A ruthenium(iii) water oxidation catalyst bearing a bipyridine-bis(alkoxide) ligand is readily converted by (NH4)2[Ce(NO3)6] to a ruthenium(ii) nitrosyl complex which is also an active water oxidation catalyst.
Characterization of black carbon aerosols over Indian Antarctic station, Maitri and identification of potential source areas
Authors: Botsa Sathish Mohan , DLLM Tara , Magesh N. S. , Tiwari Anoop Kumar
Published: July 2021

Black carbon measurements at Maitri, Antarctica during XXXVIII Antarctica expedition and found 82 ng m−3 and Patagonia is a definitive BC origin in addition to the day-to-day station related activities.
An arabinogalactan from Lycium barbarum attenuates DSS-induced chronic colitis in C57BL/6J mice associated with the modulation of intestinal barrier function and gut microbiota
Authors: Cao Cui , Zhu Beiwei , Liu Zhengqi , Wang Xue , Ai Chunqing , Gong Guiping , Hu Minghua , Huang Linjuan , Song Shuang
Published: July 2021

LBP-3 is a homogeneous arabinogalactan with an identified structure and a molecular weight of 99.9 ± 4.2 kDa from Lycium barbarum. LBP-3 alleviates DSS-induced chronic colitis by improving the gut barrier and restoring the gut microbiota and its metabolites.
Recent advances in non-precious metal electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction in acidic media and PEMFCs: an activity, stability and mechanism study
Authors: Cui Jiayao , Chen Qingjun , Li Xiaojin , Zhang Suojiang
Published: July 2021

The state-of-the-art PGM-free ORR catalysts for PEMFCs, including their active sites, ORR and deactivation mechanisms are reviewed.
Celery-derived porous carbon materials for superior performance supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Sirui , Xu Yaping , Wu Jinggao , Huang Jing
Published: July 2021

Supercapacitors are of paramount importance for next-generation applications, demonstrating high energy output and an ultra-long cycle life, and utilizing green and sustainable materials.
Base-controlled chemoselectivity: direct coupling of alcohols and acetonitriles to synthesise α-alkylated arylacetonitriles or acetamides
Authors: Li Chen , Bai Liang , Ge Min-Tong , Xia Ai-Bao , Wang Ying , Qiu Yuan-Rui , Xu Dan-Qian
Published: July 2021

[Cp*IrCl2]2 with a phosphine-free ligand α,α,α-terpyridine shows high catalytic performance in chemodivergent synthesis of α-alkylated arylacetonitriles in the presence of K2CO3 and α-alkylated acetamides in the presence of tBuOK, respectively.
N-rich porous carbon catalysts with huge surface areas from bean curd activated by K2CO3
Authors: Yi Chengfeng , Zhang Lushuang , Xiang Ganghua , Chen Xiaoyan , Cheng Na , Liu Zhigang
Published: July 2021

N-rich porous carbon catalysts with huge surface areas were fabricated from bean curd activated by K2CO3for the selective oxidation of ethylbenzene to acetophenone.
An efficient and stable coral-like CoFeS2 for wearable flexible all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor applications
Authors: Tuo Yongxiao , Chen Xiaomeng , Liu Wanli , Di Qian , Chen Chen , Zhou Yan , Zhang Jun
Published: July 2021

CoFeS2 was synthesized by an organic solvothermal method as a positive electrode for flexible asymmetric supercapacitors, which showed high specific capacitance and good stability.
Synthesis, structural characterization, protein binding, DNA cleavage and anticancer activity of fluorophore labelled copper(ii) complexes based on 1,8-naphthalimide conjugates
Authors: Shaikh Sabiha A. , Bhat Satish S. , Hegde Pooja L. , Revankar Vidyanand K , Kate Anup , Kirtani Deepti , Kumbhar Anupa A. , Kumbar Vijay , Bhat Kishore
Published: July 2021

The synthesized copper complexes have good anticancer activity and induce an apoptotic mode of cell death.
Synthesis of 3D flower-like hierarchical NiCo-LDH microspheres with boosted electrochemical performance for hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Jiang Di , Wei Chuan-Ying , Zhu Zi-Yang , Guan Xiao-Hui , Lu Min , Zhang Xiao-Juan , Wang Guang-Sheng
Published: July 2021

3D flower-like NiCo-LDH microspheres synthesized via conformal alkaline hydrolysis strategy possess superior specific capacitance and stability, and the assembled HSC exhibits prominent power/energy density and durability.
Graphite@silicon embedded in a carbon conformally coated tiny SiO2nanoparticle matrix for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Huitian , Liu Xu , Liu Zhaolin , Tao Junyan , Dai Xiaoqian , Yang Qi , Xu Jikai , Shan Zhongqiang
Published: July 2021

Graphite@Si encapsulated in carbon conformally coated tiny SiO2nanoparticle matrix composites (G@Si/SiO2NPs/C) were well-designed as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, which show high specific capacity and remarkable cycling stability.
Strategic synthesis of sponge-like structured SiOx@C@CoO multifunctional composites for high-performance and stable lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Pu , Sun Zhongti , Liu Hui , Gao Zhi-Wen , Hu Jianguo , Yin Wan-Jian , Ke Qingqing , Zhu Hugh Lu
Published: July 2021

Sponge-like structured SiOx@C@CoO multifunctional composites improve the conductivity of SiOx, shorten the diffusion length and increase surface areas to enhance Li+ diffusion, and accommodate the volume change, contributing to improved and stable lithium-ion batteries.
A do-it-yourself approach to achieving a flexible pressure sensor using daily use materials
Authors: Duan Zaihua , Jiang Yadong , Huang Qi , Yuan Zhen , Zhao Qiuni , Wang Si , Zhang Yajie , Tai Huiling
Published: July 2021

In order to solve the shortcomings of the complex manufacturing process and high cost of flexible pressure sensors, a low-cost and eco-friendly flexible pressure sensor is achieved using a simple do-it-yourself (DIY) approach.
Iterative attribute augmentation network for face image super resolution
Authors: Teng Zi , Yu Xiaosheng , Wu Chengdong
Published: July 2021

Although recently a series of deep‐learning based methods have promoted the performance of face super resolution (FSR), most of these methods cannot recover essential face attributes accurately, especially to super‐resolve a very low‐resolution (LR) face image ( pixels) to its () high‐resolution (HR) version. To address this issue, a novel alternating optimisation algorithm to estimate facial attributes and restore facial images in a single network is presented . Specifically, two convolutional neural modules (denoted as Restorer and Corrector) are constructed and these two modules are alternated repeatedly to form an end‐to‐end trainable network. The Restorer module reconstructs face images based on estimated facial attributes, while the Corrector module corrects the estimated attributes with the help of restored face image. Since Corrector can utilise information from previous estimated attributes and the FSR image, the estimated attributes are iteratively corrected and gradually approach the ground truth. Moreover, a new attribute transformation scheme is designed to introduce attribution information into Restorer, in which the facial attribute vectors as the control conditions can guide the face image restoration explicitly. By conducting extensive experiments on the well‐known CelebA dataset, it is demonstrated that the proposed method can provide superior FSR performance in both quantitative and qualitative measurements.
Modular DC‐DC auto‐transformer: Topology, operation, and system design
Authors: Chen Yang , Wang Han , Zhu Miao , Liu Ming , Cai Xu
Published: July 2021

Here, a modular DC‐DC auto‐transformer is proposed with a developed scheme of two‐port submodules. The proposed two‐port submodule is composed of six switches and single capacitor, and it is featured with three general working states. In the proposed DC‐DC auto‐transformer, all two‐port submodules are connected in the input‐series‐output‐series structure. Then the general primary and secondary ports of the submodules of the proposed DC‐DC auto‐transformer are connected in series to achieve the auto‐transformer operation capability. All submodule capacitors are actively connected in the transformer to form the primary and secondary side voltages. The capacitor utilization is increased therefore. Different voltage ratios can be achieved by arranging different submodule numbers in each working state simultaneously. The volume is reduced due to the developed two‐port submodule which eliminates of AC transformers. Detailed topology, working principles, modulation method, and control strategy are provided in the paper. Voltage and current fluctuations are analysed, and the system parameter design method is proposed in detail. Both a simulation system with 40 submodules and a down‐scaled experimental system with three submodules were set up and verified the proposed approach.
Retrospective Cross-sectional Analysis of Factors Associated with Asthma in a Pediatric Cohort from Turkey
Authors: Severcan Ezgi Ulusoy , Bal Cem Murat , Tanac Remziye , Gulen Figen , Demir Esen
Published: July 2021

Background It is difficult to identify young children at increased risk of developing asthma amongst those with recurrent wheezing. In this study, we aimed to determine factors associated with asthma in Turkish children.

Methods We performed a retrospective cross-sectional analysis on factors associated with asthma in 651 children (200 girls, 451 boys) admitted for recurrent wheezing.

Results Amongst all included children, asthma frequency was 57.7%. Maturity, consanguinity, family income, passive smoking, father’s, siblings’ asthma were not found to be associated with asthma. Factors associated with asthma were: family’s, parents’, siblings’ atopy, family’s, mother’s asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis, respiratory symptoms between wheezing attacks. The sensitivity (SN) of the modified asthma predictive index (mAPI) was 59.2% with a specificity (SP) of 91.3%, positive predictive index (PPI) of 65.1% and negative predictive index (NPI) of 82.3%. The SN of the modified Prevention and Incidence of Asthma and Mite Allergy (PIAMA) score was 22.9% with a SP of 89.2%, PPI of 84.6%, and NPI of 42.2%. Adjusted odds ratio for mAPI was 12.9, and for the modified PIAMA score 4.

Conclusion Our analysis confirmed previously described factors associated with asthma. Although the SN is limited, the mAPI and PIAMA risk scores can be used to predict asthma in Turkish children. Differential diagnoses and overlaps with other chronic pediatric diseases such as immunodeficiencies need to be carefully excluded when confirming the diagnosis asthma.
Phytogenic Compounds for Enhancing Intestinal Barrier Function in Poultry–A Review
Authors: Latek Urszula , Chłopecka Magdalena , Karlik Wojciech , Mendel Marta
Published: July 2021

After the European Union ban of antibiotic growth promoters, works on different methods of improving gut health have intensified. The poultry industry is struggling with problems that were previously controlled by antibiotic growth promoters, therefore the search for optimal solutions continues. Simultaneously, there is also increasing social pressure to minimize the use of antibiotics and replace them with alternative feed additives. A variety of available alternatives is considered safe by consumers, among which phytogenics play a significant role. However, there are still some limitations that need to be considered. The most questionable are the issues related to bioavailability, metabolism of plant derivatives in birds, and the difficulty of standardizing commercial products. There is still a need for more evidence-based recommendations for the use of phytogenics in livestock. On the other hand, a positive influence of phytogenic compounds on the health of poultry
has been previously described by many researchers and practical application of these compounds has auspicious perspectives in poultry production. Supplementation with phytogenic feed additives has been shown to protect birds from various environmental threats leading to impaired intestinal barrier function. Phytogenic feed additives have the potential to improve the overall structure of intestinal mucosa as well as gut barrier function on a molecular level. Recognition of the phytogenicsʼ effect on the components of the intestinal barrier may enable the selection of the most suitable ones to alleviate negative effects of different agents. This review aims to summarize current knowledge of the influence of various phytogenic constituents on the intestinal barrier and health of poultry.
Exploring The Interactions of a Natural Gamma-Oryzanol with Human
Serum Albumin: Surface Plasmon Resonance, Fluorescence, and Molecular Modeling
Studies
Authors: Maleki Somaiyeh , Arabzadeh AmirAhmad , Nejati Kazem , Fathi Farzaneh
Published: July 2021

γ-oryzanol (ORY) is the vital bioactive compound, which is a mixture of
ferulic acid ester and plant sterols. In the present work, the binding of ORY to
human serum albumin (HSA) was investigated at the molecular level using
fluorescence spectroscopy and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) as well as
molecular modeling studies. Based on the fluorescence data analysis, ORY can
form a non-fluorescent complex with HSA and induce static quenching of the
emission intensity of HSA. Also, the high value of K

SV

(34.69 × 104 M−1) confirmed a high
sensitivity of HSA toward ORY. The real-time monitoring of the binding of ORY to
HSA was carried out using the SPR technique. The small
K

D
value (1.23 × 10−6 M)
calculated by SPR analysis indicated a high affinity of ORY toward HSA. The
molecular modeling studies confirmed that ORY has only one binding site on HSA
and binds HSA in a cavity between subdomain IIA and IIIA.
Benzoylcyclopropane Derivatives from Hypoxis hemerocallidea Corms
Authors: Zulfiqar Fazila , Pandey Pankaj , Tripathi Siddharth K. , Ali Zulfiqar , Chittiboyina Amar G. , Khan Ikhlas A.
Published: July 2021

Two monobenzoylcyclopropane (hypoxhemerol A (1) and hypoxhemeroloside G (2)) and three dibenzoylcyclopropane (hypoxhemerol B (3), hypoxhemeroloside H (4), and hypoxhemeroloside I (5)) derivatives were isolated from the hydro-alcoholic extract of Hypoxis hemerocallidea corms. This is the first instance where benzoylcyclopropane analogs were isolated from any natural source. Structure elucidation was mainly based on 1D- and 2D-NMR and HRESIMS data. The absolute configuration (2R, 4R) of 1 was determined via NOESY NMR and experimental and calculated ECD data analyses. Compounds 1–5 and 11 recently reported metabolites (hypoxoside, obtuside A, interjectin, acuminoside, curcapicycloside, and hypoxhemerolosides A – F) were screened for in vitro antimicrobial activity against various bacterial and fungal strains. Curcapicycloside and acuminoside exhibited antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli with 78 and 79% inhibition at 20 µg/mL, respectively. Hypoxhemeroloside A showed mild antifungal activity against Cryptococcus neoformans with 63% inhibition at 20 µg/mL.
Monströser solitärer fibröser Tumor der Pleura
Authors: Prisadov Georgi , Hendrix Holger , Kamlak Vladimir , Welcker Katrin
Published: July 2021

Lokalisierte, solitäre fibröse Tumoren sind eine seltene Entität und finden sich meist im Thorax, können aber auch in Leber, Haut, Meningen, am Peritoneum und Perikard auftreten. Aufgrund des vielgestaltigen mikromorphologischen Erscheinungsbildes ist die Sicherung der Diagnose oftmals schwierig. Entscheidend ist die histopathologische Begutachtung mit differenzierter Immunhistochemie. Die chirurgische Resektion der lokalisierten, solitären fibrösen Tumoren ist die Therapie der Wahl. Die Rezidiv- und Metastasenrate ist abhängig von der histologischen Dignität insgesamt sehr gering. Kontinuierliche Nachsorgeuntersuchungen sind indiziert.

Wir berichten über eine 76-jährigen Patientin mit einem monströsen solitären fibrösen Tumor der Pleura, die seit einigen Wochen über Belastungsdyspnoe und stechende Schmerzen rechts thorakal klagte. Computertomografisch zeigte sich eine heterogene Raumforderung mit ca. 22 cm Durchmesser im Mittel- und Unterfeld des Thorax mit Kompression des Zwerchfells und des Mediastinums. Der Tumor wurde über eine doppelte Thorakotomie im 5. und im 8. Interkostalraum vollständig reseziert. Intraoperativ zeigte sich der Tumor zum Mittellappen gestielt. Um den Tumor vollständig zu entfernen, wurde zusätzlich eine Keilresektion aus dem Mittellappen durchgeführt. Der Tumor wog 2,4 kg. Die Diagnose eines solitären fibrösen Tumors der Pleura wurde histologisch und immunhistochemisch gestellt. Postoperativ hat sich die Lunge vollständig entfaltet. Bei der 3-monatigen Nachuntersuchung zeigte sich kein Nachweis eines Rezidivs. Die klinische Symptomatik, Diagnosestellung, Therapieoptionen, Rezidivrisiko und die Prognose dieser Tumore werden aufgezeigt und entsprechend der Literatur diskutiert.
Effect Modification of Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Obesity, and
Physical Activity in Adults
Authors: do Socorro Morais Pereira Simoes Maria , Wehrmeister Fernando Cesar , Romiti Marcello , de Toledo Gagliardi Antonio Ricardo , Arantes Rodolfo Leite , Dourado Victor Zuniga
Published: July 2021

We investigated if cardiorespiratory fitness modifies the association between
obesity and the level of physical activity. In this cross-sectional study, we
analyzed data from 746 adults, free of diagnosed cardiorespiratory or locomotor
diseases. We analyzed sociodemographic and clinical information, cardiovascular
risk factors, cardiorespiratory fitness, anthropometry, and level of physical
activity (time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity). Those that
spent more time in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were younger, male,
with lower body mass index, without self-reported arterial blood hypertension,
diabetes and dyslipidemia, non-smokers, and presented with better
cardiorespiratory fitness. The linear regression coefficients showed that
cardiorespiratory fitness changes according to the level of physical activity
and body mass index (obesity in low cardiorespiratory fitness: β 6.0,
p=0.213, 95%CI-3.5 to 15.6; in intermediate cardiorespiratory
fitness: β 6.3, p=0.114, 95%CI-1.5 to 14.2; in high
cardiorespiratory fitness: β-6.3, p=0.304, 95%CI-18.4 to
5.8). This effect modification trend was present after adjusting the model by
covariates. Cardiorespiratory fitness potentially modifies the association
between body mass index and the level of physical activity. It should be
routinely assessed to identify persons with overweight/ obesity with
low/ intermediate cardiorespiratory fitness to prescribe individualized
training.
A Simple, Readily Accessible, and Effective Apparatus for the ­Photoisomerization of cis-Cyclooctenes to trans-Cyclooctenes
Authors: Pickel Thomas C. , Genung Nathan E. , Guckian Kevin M. , Shi Xianglin
Published: July 2021

A simple, cost effective, and readily accessible apparatus for the photoisomerization of cis-cyclooctenes to trans-cyclooctenes is described. Utilizing only FEP tubing, aluminum vent pipe, a household germicidal lamp, and a flash chromatography system, trans-cyclooctenes can be prepared in good yield.
Investigation on the Stoichiometry of Carbon Dioxide in Isotope-Exchange Reactions with Phenylacetic Acids
Authors: Audisio Davide , Talbot Alex , Sallustrau Antoine , Goudet Amélie , Taran Frédéric
Published: July 2021

The functionalization of carbon dioxide (CO2) as a C1 building block has attracted enormous attention. Carboxylation reactions, in particular, are of major interest for applications in isotope labeling. Due to the inexpensive nature of CO2, information about its stoichiometric use is generally unavailable in the literature. Because of the rarity and limited availability of CO2 isotopomers, this parameter is of concern for applications in carbon-isotope labeling. We investigated the effects of the stoichiometry of labeled CO2 on carbon isotope exchange of phenyl­acetic acids. Both thermal and photocatalytic procedures were studied, providing insight into product outcome and isotope incorporation. Preliminary results on isotope-dilution effects of carbonate bases in photocatalytic carboxylation reactions have also been obtained.
Cor Triatriatum Dexter with Noncompaction of Right Ventricle and Complete Heart Block: An Unholy Trinity
Authors: Bhandari Monika , Pradhan Akshyaya , Vishwakarma Pravesh , Sethi Rishi
Published: July 2021

Cor triatriatum (CT) or a triatrial heart is a rare congenital anomaly in which one of the atrial chambers is divided by a fibromuscular membrane. Of the two variants, CT dexter (right-sided CT) is still further rare than CT sinister (left-sided CT). Although CT sinister presents with features of left heart obstructive disease mimicking mitral stenosis, CT dexter is usually asymptomatic and is found incidentally on imaging. Here, we present a patient with an unusual case of complete heart block who was found to have CT dexter along with right ventricular noncompaction on imaging.
Long-Term Seizures Outcome in Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME): A Retrospective Cohort Study in an Indian Population
Authors: Viswanathan Lakshminarayanapuram Gopal , Mundlamuri Ravindranadh Chowdary , Raghavendra Kenchaiah , Asranna Ajay , Chatterjee Aparajita , Gautham Bhargava , Satishchandra Parthasarathy , Sinha Sanjib
Published: July 2021

Objectives Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) is the most prevalent form of generalized epilepsy in the community. Though the response to medication is good in most patients, long-term medication usage may lead to poor compliance, side effects, and other epilepsy-related social issues. The aim of this study was to describe the demography, clinical features, and therapeutic response in patients with JME who have had at least 10 years of duration of epilepsy.

Materials and Methods A retrospective study of 56 patients (M:F=26:30; mean age: 14.5 ± 5.1 years) with JME attending neurological services in a tertiary care neurological center in South India with more than 10 years disease duration was performed.

Results All patients had myoclonic jerks, 94% had generalized tonic–clonic seizure, and only 7.1% had features of absence seizures. Seizures were controlled in 60% of cases at the end of 10 years of epilepsy. Thirty-eight patients (67.8%) were on valproate. Control of seizures at the end of the first and fifth years of epilepsy, frequent myoclonic jerks at the onset, and treatment with valproate in the first year of disease resulted in controlled seizures at the end of 10 years. No patient was off medications at the end of 10 years of epilepsy or at the last follow-up.

Conclusion About 40% of our patients continued to have seizures even 10 years after the onset of epilepsy. Regular and long-term medication may be required in JME. Early control of seizures, response to valproate, and frequent myoclonia at onset were found to confer better prognosis.
Effect of Nicotine and Porphyromonas gingivalis on the Differentiation Properties of Periodontal Ligament Fibroblasts
Authors: Panpradit Naruemon , Nilmoje Thanapoj , Kasetsuwan Julalux , Sangkhamanee Sujiwan Seubbuk , Surarit Rudee
Published: July 2021

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Porphyromonas gingivalis and nicotine on the in vitro osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament (PDL) fibroblasts.

Materials and Methods PDLs were cultured in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum at 37°C under 5% CO2 and 100% humidified atmosphere. Cells were incubated with various concentrations of nicotine and P. gingivalis extracts, and cell viability was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. To study cell differentiation, PDLs (5 × 104cells) were treated with the osteogenic differentiation medium containing 10 mM β-glycerophosphate, 10 nM dexamethasone, 50 mg/mL ascorbic acid, 1 μM nicotine, and 50 µg/mL P. gingivalis lysate. mRNA samples were collected at 0, 7, and 14 days. Odontogenic-related gene expression, namely, Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), collagen type I (COL1A1), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was determined by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Calcified nodule formation was determined on day 28 using Alizarin Red S. Analysis of variance and Tukey’s test were used to compare the difference among groups at significant level of p < 0.05.

Results It showed that 50 µg/mL of P. gingivalis lysate and 1 µM of nicotine showed no toxicity to PDLs. Runx2, COL1A1, and ALP expression were found to decrease significantly after 7 days of treatment, while osteocalcin expression was found to decrease after 14 days. The nodule formation in the control group was much greater in both number and size of nodules than in experimental groups, which implied a positive sign of calcium deposition in controls.

Conclusion The results indicated that nicotine and P. gingivalis showed adverse effect on osteogenic differentiation properties of PDLs.
Right Ventricle Embolization of IVC Filter Fragments: An Incidental Finding
Authors: Miyara Santiago J. , Guevara Sara , Shore-Lesserson Linda , Shoaib Muhammad , Kirsch Claudia , Metz Christine N. , Nair Vinay , Lau Lawrence , Choudhary Rishabh C. , McCann-Molmenti Alexia , Baez Anthony M. , Hayashida Kei , Takegawa Ryosuke , Shinozaki Koichiro , Aoki Tomoaki , Nishikimi Mitsuaki , Cho Young Min , Morell Alexis , Zafeiropoulos Stefanos , Zanos Stavros , Watt Stacey , Montorfano Lisandro , Bartoc Cristian D. , Lumermann Claudio M. , Aronsohn Judith , Becker Lance B. , Molmenti Ernesto P.
Published: July 2021

This case report describes a 52-year-old male patient, with the incidental finding of inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) fragments impacted into the right ventricle, secondary to IVCF fragmentation and subsequent embolization. While IVCFs are prescribed to prevent pulmonary embolizations when anticoagulation is either contraindicated, or has failed, IVCF embolizations to the heart represent an extremely rare, but potentially life-threatening complication. Of note, at the time of writing, the utility and effectiveness of IVCF are not fully established. Intracardiac embolizations of IVCF typically present with complications such as hypotension, cardiac tamponade, arrhythmias, ventricle perforation, bleeding, cardiac arrest, and death. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of an asymptomatic kidney transplant recipient found to have right ventricle embolizations of IVCF fragments through routine assessment. Additionally, this is also the first report of an asymptomatic patient who presented IVCF fragments embolized to the right ventricle and left gonadal vein in the same clinical setting.
Secondary Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) Associated with ChAdOx1 Covid-19 Vaccination – A Case Report
Authors: Koch Martin , Fuld Sybille , Middeke Jan M. , Fantana Julia , von Bonin Simone , Beyer-Westendorf Jan
Published: July 2021

Novel mRNA and vector-based covid-19 vaccinations have shown high efficacy in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infections. Compared with the number of performed vaccinations, rates of severe side effects seem low. Rare prothrombotic coagulation disorders with suspected association to ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (AstraZeneca) have been reported. These cases have gathered considerable media attention and caused a temporary pause of usage of the AstraZeneca vaccine in Europe and several other countries and are currently discussed as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). However, hemorrhagic complications from ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination have also been reported but, so far, received less public attention despite considerable potential for life-threatening complications. Here we present a case of severe immune thrombocytopenia after ChAdOx1 covid-19 vaccination and its successful primary management.
The Action of Efflux Pump Genes in Conferring Drug Resistance to Klebsiella Species and Their Inhibition
Authors: Ashwath Priyanka , Sannejal Akhila Dharnappa
Published: July 2021

Nosocomial infections caused by Klebsiella species are characterized by high rates of morbidity and mortality. The emergence of the multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensive drug-resistant (XDR) Gram-negative bacteria reduces the antibiotic efficacy in the treatment of infections caused by the microorganisms. Management of these infections is often difficult, due to the high frequency of strains resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents. Multidrug efflux pumps play a major role as a mechanism of antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative pathogens. Efflux systems are significant in conferring intrinsic and acquired resistance to the bacteria. The emergence of increasing drug resistance among Klebsiella pneumoniae nosocomial isolates has limited the therapeutic options for treatment of these infections and hence there is a constant quest for an alternative. In this review, we discuss various resistance mechanisms, focusing on efflux pumps and related genes in conferring resistance to Klebsiella. The role of various efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs) in restoring the antibacterial activity has also been discussed. In specific, antisense oligonucleotides as alternative therapeutics in combatting efflux-mediated resistance in Klebsiella species have focused upon.
A Descriptive Analysis of Capsule Endoscopy Events in the FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) Database
Authors: Ji Hangyu , Wang Shaoli , Gong Yang
Published: July 2021

Introduction The malfunction of capsule endoscopy (CE) devices is a significant reason for the failure of CE procedures, which could hinder and prevent diagnosis. Unfortunately, malfunction-related adverse events (AEs) caused by CE devices are rarely reported in publications. Although most malfunction-related AEs could not lead to physical harm, they could reduce the efficiency of medical care and increase medical costs. The manufacturer and user facility device experience (MAUDE) database, a publicly accessible resource for patient safety, contains not only the common complications of CE but also valuable malfunction-related AEs, which have been underutilized. Therefore, the study aims to discover and analyze the possible AEs associated with CE and demonstrate the utility of the MAUDE reports to promote patient safety.

Materials and Methods We acquired MAUDE reports of CE systems from January 01, 2008, to July 31, 2020, through a systematic search strategy. We utilized the manufacturers, brand names, and product codes as search terms from which medical device reports including structured data and narrative texts were extracted, followed by a manual review of the narrative texts, reporter occupation, device involved, event type and the phase of the event; finally, patient outcomes were recorded and analyzed as per CE categories and characteristics.

Results A total of 377 CEs medical device reports were retrieved, and 342 reports were included after reviewing. There were 327 mandatory reports (96%) and 15 voluntary reports (4%). These reports referred to capsule endoscope (n = 213), sensing system (n = 66), patency capsule (n = 38), and capsule delivery device (n = 26). A total of 349 CE-related AEs were identified, including complications (n = 228), malfunction-related AEs (n = 109), and other events (n = 12). The composition of AEs was not the same for the CE devices. Complications were major AEs of capsule endoscope and patency capsule, but malfunction-related AEs were the most common in AEs of sensing systems and capsule delivery devices.

Conclusion MAUDE serves as an invaluable data source for investigating malfunction-related AEs. In addition to common complications, malfunction of CE devices could threaten patient safety in CE procedures. Improving awareness of the malfunction of CE devices and raising adequate training for staff working in gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopic units could be critical and beneficial in preventing malfunction-related AEs.
Detection of Colon Polyps in India—A Large Retrospective Cohort Study (DoCPIr)
Authors: Jagtap Nitin , Singh Aniruddha Pratap , Inavolu Pradev , Tandan Manu , Godbole Shubhankar , Ambardekar Pranav , Sekaran Anuradha , Lakhtakia Sundeep , Ramchandani Mohan , Kalapala Rakesh , Gupta Rajesh , Reddy P. Manohar , Nabi Zaheer , Chavan Radhika , Rao G. Venkat , Reddy D. Nageshwar
Published: July 2021

Objective Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an emerging public health problem in Asia and India. However, there is scarcity of data on CRC and adenoma. We aimed to study prevalence and characteristics of colonic polyps in a large retrospective cohort.

Methods For this retrospective single center study, all patients with age > 18 years undergoing colonoscopy from January 2018 to December 2019 were included. Age, gender, and polyp characteristics were collected from endoscopy and histology database. Patients with incomplete histology reports and anal canal polyps were excluded. Based on histology, polyps were divided into adenocarcinoma, adenoma with advanced pathology (AAP; size > 10 mm, villous morphology or high-grade dysplasia), nonadvanced adenomas (nAAP), and nonadenomas.

Results Overall colon polyp prevalence was 10.18% (3551/34893). The mean age (standard deviation [SD]) was 51.51 (14.84) with 75.4% males, of which 128 (3.6%) were adenocarcinoma. A total of 1514 (42.64%) were adenomas; 344 (9.7%) were AAP and 1170 (32.9%) were nAAP. The remaining 1909 (53.8%) were nonadenomas. Colonic adenoma prevalence after excluding adenocarcinoma was 4.35% (1514/34893). Adenocarcinoma (68.8% vs. 31.2%), AAP (70.6% vs. 29.4%), other adenomas (75.4% vs. 24.6%), and nonadenomas (76.7% vs. 23.3%) were significantly higher in male compared with female (p < 0.05). Adenomas and adenocarcinomas were more common in left colon and rectum than right colon (p < 0.05). The mean age (SD) were significantly lower in nonadenomas than adenocarcinomas, AAP, and other adenomas (p 0.0001; 49.25 [14.84] vs. 55.97 [12.47], 54.78 [16.40], 53.76 [13.71]).

Conclusions The prevalence of colonic adenoma in India is 4.35%. Male gender and increased age were associated with increased risk of colonic adenoma and adenocarcinoma, which is more common in left colon and rectum. Prospective multicenter studies are required for evaluation of other risk factors of CRC and colonic adenomas.
Assessment and Management of Acute Volar Rim Fractures
Authors: Heifner John J. , Orbay Jorge L.
Published: July 2021

The volar rim of the distal radius is the only bony restraint to volar carpal subluxation. Higher loads across the volar rim require stable and rigid fixation to maintain reduction and allow healing while rehabilitation begins. Volar marginal fragments are not amenable to buttressing by fixed angle volar locking plates. Appropriate management of volar marginal fragments comprises two steps—recognition of their presence and rigid anatomical repair. The best opportunity for success in the presence of a volar marginal fragment is its adequate initial treatment. The purpose of this review is to reinforce the importance of a complete preoperative and intraoperative evaluation of distal radius fractures. Volar marginal fragments can easily be overlooked even following initial reduction and fixation. Understanding the relevant anatomy and loading parameters can facilitate intraoperative decisions on approach and fixation, which are integral to achieving optimal clinical outcomes.
Clinico-radio-pathological Features and Biological Behavior of Breast Cancer in Young Indian Women: A Prospective Study
Authors: Sudhir Rashmi , Sannapareddy Kamala , Potlapalli Alekya , Penmetsa Vidhatri
Published: July 2021

Aims The aim of the study is to evaluate the characteristic imaging features of breast cancer on mammogram, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in women less than 40 years of age and to assess the degree of correlation between clinico-radio-pathological features and biological behavior.

Methods and Materials A prospective observational study on consecutive women under 40 years of age evaluated with ultrasound of breast, digital mammogram, or contrast-enhanced breast MRI, diagnosed with breast cancer on histopathology and molecular analysis done at our center between January and December 2019 were included. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, family history, BRCA mutation status, imaging, pathological findings, and molecular status were determined.

Results Out of 2,470 women diagnosed with breast cancer, 354 (14.3%) were less than 40 years of age who were included in this study. Mammography showed positive findings in 85%, ultrasonography in 94.3%, and MRI in 96.4% of women. Majority of the women (69.6%) presented in the late stage (Stage III and IV) with high-grade carcinoma in 39.5% and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in 45.7%. Tumors with human epidermal growth factor-2neu expression were associated with the presence of microcalcifications (p-value = 0.006), and TNBC with circumscribed margins or BI-RADS 3/4a category on imaging (p-value = 0.007) and high-grade invasive carcinoma compared with others (p-value <0.0001).

Conclusion The incidence of breast cancer in Indian women less than 40 years of age is relatively high as compared with the West. The detection of breast cancer in young women remains challenging due to dense breast tissue, lower incidence rate, and lack of regular breast screening. While ultrasound is the recommended imaging method for evaluation of breast under the age of 40 years, we found a better characterization of lesions and higher cancer detection rates when they were also evaluated with mammography and MRI.
Detecting mechanical breakpoints during treadmill‐based graded exercise test: Relationships to ventilatory thresholds
Authors: Li Siu Nam , Peeling Peter , Hansen Clint , Van Alsenoy Ken , Ryu Joong Hyun , Girard Olivier
Published: July 2021

Background: While changes in cardio‐respiratory variables during graded exercise tests (GXTs) are well described, less is known about running mechanical alterations. Purpose: We determined mechanical breakpoints during GXT and compared their temporal location with thresholds in ventilation. Methods: Thirty‐one recreational male runners completed continuous GXT on an instrumented treadmill, starting at 2.5 m.s−1 with velocity increases of +0.14 m.s−1 every 30 s. Subsequently, the first and second ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2) were determined from expired gases. Spatio‐temporal and antero‐posterior force variables, and spring‐mass model characteristics were averaged for each stage. Mechanical breakpoints were detected using a linear fit process that partitioned the timeseries into two regions and minimised the error sum of squares. All measurements were normalised to % GXT duration for subsequent comparisons. Results: Fifteen out of 16 mechanical variables (all except leg stiffness) displayed breakpoints occurring between 61.9% and 82.3% of GXT duration; these occurred significantly later than VT1 (46.9 ± 6.4% of GXT duration, p < .05). Mechanical breakpoints for eight variables (step frequency, aerial time, step length, peak push‐off force, braking impulse, peak vertical force, maximal downward vertical displacement and leg compression) occurred at a time point not different to VT2 (75.3 ± 6.2% of GXT duration; all p > .05). Relationships between mechanical breakpoints and either VT1 or VT2 were weak (all r < 0.25). Conclusion: During treadmill GXT, breakpoints can be detected for the vast majority of mechanical variables (except leg stiffness), yet these are not related with ventilatory thresholds.
Elucidating mutual mate choice: effects of trial design on preferences of male zebra finches
Authors: Martin John O , Burley Nancy Tyler
Published: July 2021

Understanding the dynamics of mutual mate choice requires investigation of mate preferences of both sexes using a variety of designs, but fewer studies have focused on male choice in avian models. Here we conducted two experiments on preferences of male zebra finches to study the impact of trial design on results. Experimental design varied in number of trial participants, inclusion of observer (“audience”) males, and housing design for stimulus females. Females were reared on one of two diets to enhance variation in mating quality: those reared on a protein-supplement diet (HI-diet) were predicted to be more attractive to males than (LO-diet) females that did not receive supplements. Results differed among trial types. Notably, males showed the predicted preference for HI-diet females only in the Group Choice experiment, where two male subjects simultaneously chose from a field of four females, and all six birds interacted freely. In the Dyadic Preference (DP) experiment, a single male was allowed to interact with two stimulus females that were physically isolated; in half of these trials, audience males were present. In DP trials without audience males, test males did not express a preference consensus; however, with audience males present, test males preferred LO-diet females. Results are consistent with a small but growing literature indicating that results of mate choice experiments can be highly sensitive to design considerations.