bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrostatically embedded molecules‐in‐molecules approach and its application to molecular clusters
Authors: Tripathy Vikrant , Saha Arjun , Raghavachari Krishnan
Published: February 2021

We report the application of our fragment‐based quantum chemistry model MIM (Molecules‐In‐Molecules) with electrostatic embedding. The method is termed “EE‐MIM (Electrostatically Embedded Molecules‐In‐Molecules)” and accounts for the missing electrostatic interactions in the subsystems resulting from fragmentation. Point charges placed at the atomic positions are used to represent the interaction of each subsystem with the rest of the molecule with minimal increase in the computational cost. We have carefully calibrated this model on a range of different sizes of clusters containing up to 57 water molecules. The fragmentation methods have been applied with the goal of reproducing the unfragmented total energy at the MP2/6‐311G(d,p) level. Comparative analysis has been carried out between MIM and EE‐MIM to gauge the impact of electrostatic embedding. Performance of several different parameters such as the type of charge and levels of fragmentation are analyzed for the prediction of absolute energies. The use of background charges in subsystem calculations improves the performance of both one‐ and two‐layer MIM while it is noticeably important in the case of one‐layer MIM. Embedded charges for two‐layer MIM are obtained from a full system calculation at the low‐level. For one‐layer MIM, in the absence of a full system calculation, two different types of embedded charges, namely, Geometry dependent (GD) and geometry independent (GI) charges, are used. A self‐consistent procedure is employed to obtain GD charges. We have further tested our method on challenging charged systems with stronger intermolecular interactions, namely, protonated ammonia clusters (containing up to 30 ammonia molecules). The observations are similar to water clusters with improved performance using embedded charges. Overall, the performance of NPA charges as embedded charges is found to be the best.
U7 snRNA: A tool for gene therapy
Authors: Gadgil Ankur , Raczyńska Katarzyna Dorota
Published: February 2021

Most U‐rich small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) are complexes that mediate the splicing of pre‐mRNAs. U7 snRNP is an exception in that it is not involved in splicing but is a key factor in the unique 3′ end processing of replication‐dependent histone mRNAs. However, by introducing controlled changes in the U7 snRNA histone binding sequence and in the Sm motif, it can be used as an effective tool for gene therapy. The modified U7 snRNP (U7 Sm OPT) is thus not involved in the processing of replication‐dependent histone pre‐mRNA but targets splicing by inducing efficient skipping or inclusion of selected exons. U7 Sm OPT is of therapeutic importance in diseases that are an outcome of splicing defects, such as myotonic dystrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, β‐thalassemia, HIV‐1 infection and spinal muscular atrophy. The benefits of using U7 Sm OPT for gene therapy are its compact size, ability to accumulate in the nucleus without causing any toxic effects in the cells, and no immunoreactivity. The risk of transgene misregulation by using U7 Sm OPT is also low because it is involved in correcting the expression of an endogenous gene controlled by its own regulatory elements. Altogether, using U7 Sm OPT as a tool in gene therapy can ensure lifelong treatment, whereas an oligonucleotide or other drug/compound would require repeated administration. It would thus be strategic to harness these unique properties of U7 snRNP and deploy it as a tool in gene therapy.
Quantitative assessment of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia and outcome in patients with coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Tang Kefu , Wu Lei , Luo Ying , Gong Bo
Published: February 2021

The disease spectrum of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) varies from asymptomatic infection to critical illness and death. Identification of prognostic markers is vital for predicting progression and clinical practice. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) RNA, known as RNAemia, has been detected in the blood. However, the potential clinical value of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia remains unknown. We, therefore, conducted a meta‐analysis using a random‐effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia as well as summary strength of RNAemia in association with disease severity and unfavorable clinical outcomes. A total of 21 studies involving 2181 patients were included. SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia in COVID‐19 patients varied from 9.4% to 74.1%, with a pooled estimate of 34% (95% confidene interval [CI]: 26%–43%). Overall, SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia was associated with COVID‐19 severity with odds ratio (OR) of 5.43 (95% CI: 3.46–8.53). In addition, SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia was a significant risk factor for unfavorable clinical outcomes (OR = 6.54, 95% CI: 3.82–11.21). The summary OR was 4.28 (95% CI: 2.20–8.33) for intensive care unit (ICU) admission, 11.07 (95% CI: 5.60–21.88) for mortality. Furthermore, RNAemia was also a significant risk factor for invasive mechanical ventilation and multiple organ failure. SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia is associated with disease severity, ICU admission, death in COVID‐19, and may serve as a clinical predictor. More prospective trials in evaluating the potential of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNAemia as a prognostic indicator are necessary.
Understanding the career and job outcomes of contemporary career attitudes within the context of career environments: An integrative meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Christina S. , Goering Daniel D. , Montanye Michael R. , Su Rong
Published: February 2021

The number of empirical studies on contemporary career attitudes (e.g., protean and boundaryless career orientation) has grown in volume, and yet our understanding of how these attitudes relate to career and job outcomes is rather limited. There are inconsistent findings on these career attitudes and their outcomes. The purpose of this review is to integrate the two core arguments that explain this inconsistency: (1) there is a need for greater construct clarity in the attitudes, and (2) the current career environment has not seen a complete dissolution of the conditions underlying traditional, employer‐centric careers. We begin to develop an integrative conceptual framework to explain the effects of contemporary career attitudes and conducted a comprehensive meta‐analysis of these attitude constructs with their outcomes and correlates. Results of the meta‐analysis generally provided support for the explanation that the current career environment is a blend of employer‐ and employee‐centric elements, and the greater conceptual distance a contemporary career attitude dimension has from this blended environment and is towards a more purely employee‐centric environment, the less beneficial it will be to outcomes. Drawing from our findings, we provide a systematic guide highlighting the areas where additional research is needed on the study of contemporary career attitudes.
The phosphorus status of German cropland—An inventory of top‐ and subsoils
Authors: Gocke Martina I. , Don Axel , Heidkamp Arne , Schneider Florian , Amelung Wulf
Published: February 2021

Background: In search for more sustainable crop production, the subsoil has recently come into focus as considerable reservoir of nutrients and water.

Aims: Dimensions of subsoil phosphorus (P) reserves are yet largely unknown but crucial for identifying regions suitable to include subsoil into sustainable management strategies.

Methods: We analyzed stocks of total and plant‐available (calcium acetate lactate‐extractable) P in 96 representative soil profiles of German arable land down to 1 m depth.

Results: We found that the German arable soils stored, on average, 8 t ha−1 of total P, of which nearly 500 kg ha−1 were readily plant‐available. Notably, one third of plant‐available P was located below the plow layer and one fifth even at depths below 0.5 m. The depth gradients of plant‐available P stocks were affected more by major reference soil group than by texture. Generally, Chernozem but also Anthrosol, Gleysol and Fluvisol exhibited the largest P stocks in German cropland. The contribution of plant‐available P to total P stocks was larger in sandy and extremely acidic (pH < 4.5) soils compared with more fine‐grained and slightly acidic to alkaline soils, possibly because fertilization compensated for overall lower total P stocks at these sites. Generally, the more P was stored in topsoils, the more P was stored also in subsoils.

Conclusions: A hypothetical crop utilization of 10% from plant‐available P stocks and 0.1% from total P stocks from shallow subsoil could compensate for P fertilization by ca. 8 kg ha−1, but the rate of plant‐available P replenishment in subsoil likely remains the crucial factor for the role of subsoil P stocks in crop nutrition. Generally, the large P reserves found in subsoil could act as an ‘insurance' system for crops.
Potassium isotherm partitioning based on modified quantity‐intensity relation and potassium buffering characterization of soils of North India
Authors: Bangroo Shabir A. , Kirmani Nayar A. , Bhat Mohammad A. , Wani Javaid A. , Iqbal Asif M. , Dar Zahoor A. , Mahdi Syed Sheraz , Malik Ajaz A.
Published: February 2021

Background: Potassium (K) availability in soil and plant uptake is restrained by the dynamic interactions among the different pools of K.

Aims: To understand these interactions, a study was undertaken to assess the quantity–intensity (Q/I) and buffering characteristics of rainfed maize (Zea maysL.) growing soils. Ten contrasting soils were evaluated for K partitioning changes in exchangeable K (ΔEK) and non‐exchangeable K (ΔNEK) pools in the soil‐solution phase and buffering characteristics using a modified version of Q/I approach.

Results: The partitioned Q/I isotherms showed strong adsorption with the increase in K concentration ratio (CRK) and the changes due to ΔEK were higher than changes due to ΔNEK. Total buffering capacity (PBCK) significantly correlated (r= 0.92,p<0.01) with clay content with a major share contributed by buffering capacity owing to non‐exchangeable K () rather than exchangeable K (). The fixation capacity (β) factor, the magnitude of added K converted into a non‐exchangeable pool, ranged from 41 to 63%, whereas release (α) factor, the magnitude of added K converted to the exchangeable pool, ranged from 19 to 36%. Both threshold solution K (CKr) and threshold exchangeable K (EKr) values were found to be high in Satran clay loam (S2) and lower in Doon silty clay loam (S3) soils. The equilibrium exchangeable K (EKo) was found close to minimum exchangeable K (Emin) in Doon silty clay loam (S3) and Babaweyl sandy clay loam (S1) soils and overall Eminconstituted about 8.94 to 0.57% of the EKo.

Conclusion: It may be concluded that K Q/I isotherm partitioning provides a valuable insight to assess the dynamic relations. The ratio of α/β (K recharge index) could be used to evaluate the K enrichment capacity of soil to K additions while EKrand Emincan be potentially useful in the elucidation of exchangeable K as K fertility index especially in soils with poor K fertilizer management.
More on the identification of fish bones from southeast Arabia
Authors: Yeomans Lisa , Beech Mark Jonathan
Published: February 2021

Identification of fish bones from archeological sites in southeast Arabia requires access to an extensive reference collection. This is often not possible, and repeated use of these resources when they are available ultimately damages bones. This paper provides a platform from which high‐resolution images of 60 species of marine fishes from southeast Arabia can be downloaded, aiding identification and providing illustrations that other researchers can modify to produce graphics to highlight taphonomic modification to bones or illustrate measurements taken.
The First 2 Years of Biosimilar Epoetin for Cancer and Chemotherapy-Induced Anemia in the U.S.: A Review from the Southern Network on Adverse Reactions
Authors: Bennett Charles L. , Nagai Sumimasa , Bennett Andrew C. , Hoque Shamia , Nabhan Chadi , Schoen Martin W. , Hrushesky William J. , Luminari Stefano , Ray Paul , Yarnold Paul R. , Witherspoon Bart , Riente Josh , Bobolts Laura , Brusk John , Tombleson Rebecca , Knopf Kevin , Fishman Marc , Yang Y. Tony , Carson Kenneth R. , Djulbegovic Benjamin , Restaino John , Armitage James O. , Sartor Oliver A.
Published: February 2021

Biosimilars are biologic drug products that are highly similar to reference products in analytic features, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, immunogenicity, safety, and efficacy. Biosimilar epoetin received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 2018. The manufacturer received an FDA nonapproval letter in 2017, despite receiving a favorable review by FDA's Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) and an FDA nonapproval letter in 2015 for an earlier formulation. We discuss the 2018 FDA approval, the 2017 FDA ODAC Committee review, and the FDA complete response letters in 2015 and 2017; review concepts of litigation, naming, labeling, substitution, interchangeability, and pharmacovigilance; review European and U.S. oncology experiences with biosimilar epoetin; and review the safety of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents. In 2020, policy statements from AETNA, United Health Care, and Humana indicated that new epoetin oncology starts must be for biosimilar epoetin unless medical need for other epoetins is documented. Empirical studies report that as of 2012, reference epoetin use decreased from 40%–60% of all patients with cancer with chemotherapy-induced anemia to <5% of such patients because of safety concerns. Between 2018 and 2020, biosimilar epoetin use varied, increasing to 81% among one private insurer's patients covered by Medicare whose cancer care is administered with Oncology Analytics and to 41% with the same private insurer's patients with cancer covered by commercial health insurance and administered by the private insurer, to 0% in several Veterans Administration Hospitals, increasing to 100% in one large county hospital in California, and with yet-to-be-reported data from most oncology settings. We conclude that biosimilar epoetin appears to have overcome some barriers since 2015, although current uptake in the U.S. is variable. Pricing and safety considerations for all erythropoiesis-stimulating agents are primary determinants of biosimilar epoetin oncology uptake.

Implications for Practice

Few oncologists understand substitution and interchangeability of biosimilars with reference drugs. Epoetin biosimilar is new to the market, and physician and patient understanding is limited. The development of epoetin biosimilar is not familiar to oncologists.
The form and evolution of international migration networks, 1990–2015
Authors: Abel Guy J. , DeWaard Jack , Ha Jasmine Trang , Almquist Zack W.
Published: February 2021

Presently, there is no agreed upon data‐driven approach for identifying the geographic boundaries of migration networks that international migration systems are ultimately manifested in. Drawing from research on community detection methods, we introduce and apply the Information Theoretic Community Detection Algorithm for identifying and studying the geographic boundaries of migration networks. Using a new set of estimates of country‐to‐country migration flows every 5 years from 1990 to 1995 to 2010–2015, we trace the form and evolution of international migration networks over the past 25 years. Consistent with the concept of dynamic stability, we show that the number, size and internal country compositions of international migration networks have been remarkably stable over time; however, we also document many short‐term fluctuations. We conclude by reflecting on the spirit of our work in this paper, which is to promote consensus around tools and best practices for identifying and studying international migration networks.
Magnetoresistance of Nanosized, Granular Sr2FeMoO6–δ–SrMoO4 Core–Shell Structures
Authors: Suchaneck Gunnar , Artiukh Evgenii
Published: February 2021

Herein, for the first time, a model is developed for the description of magnetoresistance in nanosized, granular Sr2FeMoO6–δ–SrMoO4 core–shell structures, which is based on the fluctuation‐induced tunneling model. Parameters of the fluctuation‐induced tunneling model of granular materials are calculated. The magnetic field is considered to affect the tunneling barrier height. The linear and quadratic coefficients of this effect are estimated.
Arctic ocean–sea ice reanalysis for the period 2007–2016 using the adjoint method
Authors: Lyu Guokun , Koehl Armin , Serra Nuno , Stammer Detlef , Xie Jiping
Published: February 2021

We present an Arctic ocean–sea ice reanalysis covering the period 2007–2016 based on the adjoint approach of the Estimating the Circulation and Climate of the Ocean (ECCO) consortium. The spatiotemporal variation of Arctic sea surface temperature (SST), sea ice concentration (SIC), and sea ice thickness (SIT) is substantially improved after the assimilation of ocean and sea ice observations. By assimilating additional World Ocean Atlas 2018 (WOA18) hydrographic data, the freshwater content of the Canadian Basin becomes closer to the observations and translates into changes of the ocean circulation and of transports through the Fram and Davis straits. This new reanalysis compares well with previous filter‐based (TOPAZ4) and nudging‐based (PIOMAS) reanalyses regarding SIC and SST. Benefiting from using the adjoint of the sea ice model, our reanalysis is superior to the ECCOv4r4 product considering sea ice parameters. However, the mean state and variability of the freshwater content and the transport properties of our reanalysis remain different from TOPAZ4 and ECCOv4r4, likely because of a lack of hydrographic observations.
A standardized procedure for upper mediastinal lymph node dissection improves the safety and efficacy of robotic McKeown oesophagectomy
Authors: Chao Yin‐Kai , Tsai Chun‐Yi , Illias Amina M. , Chen Chun‐Yu , Chiu Chien‐Hung , Chuang Wen‐Yu
Published: February 2021

Background

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy is a common complication of upper mediastinal lymph node dissection (UMLND) in the context of oesophageal cancer surgery. In an effort to reduce its occurrence, we developed a standardised surgical procedure that allows flexible suspension of the left RLN during robotic McKeown oesophagectomy.

Patients and methods

Patients who received robotic McKeown oesophagectomy for cancer were divided into two groups (pre and poststandardisation). Perioperative outcomes were retrospectively compared.

Results

The pre and poststandardisation groups consisted of 44 and 42 patients, respectively. There were no significant intergroup differences in terms of number of dissected lymph nodes. Compared with the prestandardisation group, patients treated after standardisation had a markedly lowered incidence of left RLN palsy (20.5% vs. 4.8%, respectively, p = 0.029) and a reduced mean thoracic operating time (161.05 vs. 131 min, respectively, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our standardised surgical approach is efficient and may increase the safety of UMLND.
Stabilization by delay feedback control for highly nonlinear switched stochastic systems with time delays
Authors: Zhao Ying , Zhu Quanxin
Published: February 2021

This paper firstly discusses the existence and boundedness of unique global solution for highly nonlinear switched stochastic systems (SSSs) with time delays, where the switching signal is deterministic switching signal. Although the existence and boundedness of unique global solution can be obtained under local Lipschitz condition and Khasminskii‐type condition, highly nonlinear SSSs with time delays may not be stable. Therefore, a delay feedback control function can be designed for studying the stability of highly nonlinear SSSs with time delays, whose coefficients do not satisfy the linear growth condition. By using the Mathematical induction, Lyapunov function approach and the average dwell time method, H∞ stability and the pth moment exponential stability are studied for highly nonlinear SSSs with time delays. An explanatory example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the main results.
The effect of dentifrice ingredients on enamel erosion prevention and repair
Authors: Fowler Christabel E. , Creeth Jonathan E. , Paul Alan J. , Carson Clare , Tadesse Gebremedhin , Brown Alan
Published: February 2021

Fluoride is a key dentifrice ingredient for mitigating dental erosion and promoting remineralisation in tooth enamel. A dentifrice formulation (NaF/CL ‐ where C = Copolymer, L = Lactate), optimised for fluoride delivery, containing sodium fluoride, polyvinylmethylether–maleic anhydride (PVM/MA) copolymer and lactate ion at controlled pH of 6.2 is compared with six commercial dentifrices from European and US regulatory regions. The in vitro study utilised white light interferometry (WLI) and dynamic secondary ion mass spectrometry (DSIMS) to assess dental erosion resistance and remineralisation potential of the dentifrices. For WLI, polished enamel samples were immersed in dentifrice slurry (1:3 wt./wt. in artificial saliva, 2 min), brushed, washed in deionised water, acid challenged (1% citric acid, pH 3.8, 5 min), washed and air dried. Surface roughness and bulk tissue loss were measured. DSIMS samples for fluoride uptake were acid challenged (1% citric acid, pH 3.8, 5 min), rinsed, immersed in dentifrice slurry (1:3 wt./wt. in artificial saliva, 2 min), washed and air dried. DSIMS samples for 44Ca uptake were prepared similarly but with 44Ca‐doped artificial saliva. The NaF/CL dentifrice provided highest protection against dental erosion, with highest fluoride and 44Ca uptake in all treatment groups (n = 5 per group). Dentifrices containing other fluoride salts and/or ingredients known to inhibit fluoride uptake (e.g., polyphosphates, sodium lauryl sulfate), performed significantly worse.
Dual Functional Alginate‐Polyethylene Polyamine Composite Aerogel Toward Sensing and Extracting Copper Ions in Water
Authors: Wang Zhuqing , Yang Leilei , Yang Qi , Wang Min
Published: February 2021

In this study, a new type of sodium alginate‐polyethylene polyamine composite aerogel (Alg‐PEMA) was synthesized to detect and remove excess copper ions (Cu2+) in water. First, a classic acylation reaction was used to graft polyethylene polyamine onto alginate, which was then gelatinized in a calcium ion solution and vacuum freeze‐dried to prepare the final Alg‐PEMA adsorbent. Experimental results showed that the as‐prepared Alg‐PEMA can remove 99.2 % of Cu2+ (0.1 mM) in water, and the maximum adsorption capacity for Cu2+ is 46.78 mg/g. Alg‐PEMA can also be used for qualitative colorimetric detection of Cu2+ in aqueous solution. The detection limit for Cu2+ is as low as 0.64 mg/L, which is lower than the WHO standard for drinking water Cu2+ content (2.0 mg/L). Its green and safe raw materials, simple desorption and regeneration process, and stable detection and adsorption performance indicate that the Alg‐PEMA adsorbent has broad application prospects in the treatment of Cu2+‐containing wastewater.
Recent Advances on the s‐Triazine Scaffold with Emphasis on Synthesis, Structure‐Activity and Pharmacological Aspects: A Concise Review
Authors: Majeed Ganai Ab , Khan Pathan Tabasum , Hampannavar Girish A. , Pawar Chandrakant , Obakachi Vincent A. , Kushwaha Babita , Deshwar Kushwaha Narva , Karpoormath Rajshekhar
Published: February 2021

Triazine nuclei have occupied a propitious place in pharmaceutical chemistry due to their diverse biological behaviour. The marketed drugs such as Azacitidine, Melarsoprol, Altretamine and Almitrine display broad pharmacological activities like anti‐cancer, anti‐parasitic, anti‐inflammatory, Respiratory stimulant and many more. Literature studies reveal that the 2, 4, and 6 substitution on s‐triazine is important for varied biological activities. This diversity in pharmacological activities of triazine scaffold has fascinated the various researchers to further investigate its applications in the treatment of several diseases. This review is complementary to earlier reports and aims to review the work reported on various synthetic methods and biological activities of substituted s‐triazine derivatives from 2016 to 2020 with a list of patents. The enriched structure‐activity relationship may open the doors for further rational drug development of s‐triazine containing analogues as good clinical candidates.
Benchmarking Phases of Ruthenium Dichalcogenides for Electrocatalysis of Hydrogen Evolution: Theoretical and Experimental Insights
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Jiang Cheng , Li Ping , Yao Keguang , Zhao Zhiliang , Fan Jiantao , Li Hui , Wang Haijiang
Published: February 2021

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a significant cathode step in electrochemical devices, especially in water splitting, but developing efficient HER catalysts remains a great challenge. Herein, comprehensive density functional theory calculations are presented to explore the intrinsic HER behaviors of a series of ruthenium dichalcogenide crystals (RuX2, X = S, Se, Te). In addition, a simple and easily scaled production strategy is proposed to synthesize RuX2 nanoparticles uniformly deposited on carbon nanotubes. Consistent with theoretical predictions, the RuX2 catalysts exhibit impressive HER catalytic behavior. In particular, marcasite‐type RuTe2 (RuTe2‐M) achieves Pt‐like activity (35.7 mV at 10 mA cm−2) in an acidic electrolyte, and pyrite‐type RuSe2 presents outstanding HER performance in an alkaline media (29.5 mV at 10 mA cm−2), even superior to that of commercial Pt/C. More importantly, a RuTe2‐M‐based proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer and a RuSe2‐based anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolyzer are also carefully assembled, and their outstanding single‐cell performance points to them being efficient cathode candidates for use in hydrogen production. This work makes a significant contribution to the exploration of a new class of transition metal dichalcogenides with remarkable activity toward water electrolysis.
Goreisan regulates AQP3 expression and improves diarrhea
Authors: Murakami Kazuhito , Horie Ichiro , Hara‐Chikuma Mariko , Shimizu Tomofumi , Matsumoto Chinami , Isohama Yoichiro
Published: February 2021

Aim

Goreisan (GRS) is often used for gastrointestinal symptoms associated with bacterial and viral infections, to cure diarrhea and to prevent general dehydration. Although several clinical reports have shown the effectiveness of GRS, the pharmacological properties and underlining mechanism of GRS have not been clarified.

Methods

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 10 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to ICR mice and the diarrhea score was measured every 15 min. Goreisan (GRS; 1 g/kg) was administered 30 min before LPS administration, and the tissues were collected 90 min later. Caco‐2 cells were treated with tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α, 10 ng/mL) and GRS (0.1 mg/mL) for 24 h, and the aquaporin‐3 (AQP3) expression level was examined by qPCR.

Results

In this in vivo study, GRS did not affect cytokine production, but markedly improved tissue injury and diarrhea scores. On the other hand, AQP3 mRNA and protein expression in the intestinal epithelium in the LPS‐treated group were significantly reduced, and GRS inhibited this decrease in AQP3. In a similar experiment performed on AQP3‐deficient mice, the diarrhea‐improving and tissue‐improving effects of GRS disappeared. Furthermore, in this in vitro study, GRS suppressed the decrease in AQP3 expression by TNF‐a stimulation, and the mechanism was due to extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) inhibition.

Conclusion

GRS has both an antidiarrhea effect and an intestinal tissue‐protective effect, which it exerts through the inhibition of an inflammation‐induced decrease in intestinal AQP3 expression. Our data strongly support the clinical usefulness of GRS to prevent dehydration in infectious gastroenteritis as well as the pharmacological rationale for using GRS to treat this disease.
Herpesvirus infections, antiviral treatment, and the risk of dementia—a registry‐based cohort study in Sweden
Authors: Lopatko Lindman Karin , Hemmingsson Eva‐Stina , Weidung Bodil , Brännström Jon , Josefsson Maria , Olsson Jan , Elgh Fredrik , Nordström Peter , Lövheim Hugo
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Herpesviruses, including Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) and varicella zoster‐virus (VZV), have been implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) development. Likewise, antiviral treatment has been suggested to protect against dementia development in herpes‐infected individuals.

Methods

The study enrolled 265,172 subjects aged ≥ 50 years, with diagnoses of VZV or HSV, or prescribed antiviral drugs between 31 December 2005 and 31 December 2017. Controls were matched in a 1:1 ratio by sex and birth year.

Results

Antiviral treatment was associated with decreased risk of dementia (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 0.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.86 to 0.92), while herpes infection without antiviral drugs increased the risk of dementia (adjusted HR 1.50, 95% CI 1.29 to 1.74).

Discussion

Antiviral treatment was associated with a reduced long‐term risk of dementia among individuals with overt signs of herpes infection. This is consistent with earlier findings indicating that herpesviruses are involved in the pathogenesis of AD.
Association between exenatide use and incidence of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zhou Bo , Zissimopoulos Julie , Nadeem Hasan , Crane Matthew A. , Goldman Dana , Romley John A.
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Recent developments suggest that insulin‐sensitizing agents used to treat type II diabetes (T2DM) may also prove useful in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The objective of this study is to analyze the association between exenatide use among Medicare beneficiaries with T2DM and the incidence of AD.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis on claims data from a 20% random sample of Medicare beneficiaries with T2DM from 2007 to 2013 (n = 342,608). We compared rates of incident AD between 2009 and 2013 according to exenatide use in 2007–2008, measured by the number of 30‐day‐equivalent fills. We adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, and use of other drugs. Unmeasured confounding was assessed with an instrumental variables approach.

Results

The sample was mostly female (65%), White (76%), and 74 years old on average. Exenatide users were more likely to be male (38% vs. 35%), White (87% vs. 76%), and younger (by 4.2 years) than non‐users. Each additional 30‐day‐equivalent claim was associated with a 2.4% relative reduction in incidence (odds ratio 0.976; 95% confidence interval 0.963–0.989; P < .001). There was no evidence of unmeasured confounding.

Discussion

Exenatide use is associated with a reduced incidence of AD among Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years or older with T2DM. The association shown in this study warrants consideration by clinicians prescribing insulin sensitizing agents to patients.
Effect of maternal age on cardiac adaptation in pregnancy
Authors: Ling H. Z. , Garcia Jara P. , Nicolaides K. H. , Kametas N. A.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To compare longitudinal maternal hemodynamic changes throughout gestation between different age groups.

Methods

This was a prospective longitudinal study assessing maternal hemodynamics using a bioreactance technique at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6, 19 + 0 to 24 + 0, 30 + 0 to 34 + 0 and 35 + 0 to 37 + 0 weeks' gestation. Women were divided into four groups according to maternal age at the first visit at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks: Group 1, < 25.0 years; Group 2, 25.0–30.0 years; Group 3, 30.1–34.9 years; and Group 4, ≥ 35.0 years. A multilevel linear mixed‐effects model was performed to compare the repeat measurements of hemodynamic variables, correcting for demographics, medical and obstetric history, pregnancy complications, maternal age and gestational‐age window.

Results

The study population included 254 women in Group 1, 442 in Group 2, 618 in Group 3 and 475 in Group 4. Younger women (Group 1) had the highest cardiac output (CO) and lowest peripheral vascular resistance (PVR), and older women (Group 4) had the lowest CO and highest PVR throughout pregnancy. The higher CO seen in younger women was achieved through an increase in heart rate alone and not with a concomitant rise in stroke volume. Although the youngest age group demonstrated an apparently more favorable hemodynamic profile, it had the highest incidence of a small‐for‐gestational‐age neonate. There was no significant difference between the groups in the incidence of pre‐eclampsia.

Conclusion

Age‐specific differences in maternal hemodynamic adaptation do not explain the differences in the incidence of a small‐for‐gestational‐age neonate between age groups. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Effects of AHLs inhibitors and exogenous AHLs on the stability and activity of Anammox granules at low temperatures
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Lin‐hua , Sun Peng , He Jie‐ya , Li Jun
Published: February 2021

This study investigated the relationship between acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs)‐based quorum sensing (QS) and the properties of Anammox granular sludge at low temperatures (11–23°C). Results indicated that adding different concentrations of AHLs inhibitors reduced the content of N‐hexanoyl‐dl‐homoserine lactone (C6‐HSL) and N‐octanoyl‐dl‐homoserinelactone (C8‐HSL) in Anammox granules on different degrees at different operation temperatures, which led to the deterioration of granules stability and activity. The important role of endogenous C6‐HSL and C8‐HSL signals in maintaining Anammox granular sludge stability and activity in low‐temperature conditions was revealed. In addition, in the process of reducing operation temperatures, another type of AHL signal (N‐(3‐oxooctanoyl)‐l‐homoserine lactone, 3OC8‐HSL) was released by Anammox granules. The effects of exogenous C8‐HSL on the strength, average diameter, and density of Anammox granules were closely related to the operation temperature. When the operation temperature ranged from 11°C to 16°C, the stability of granules could be significantly improved by exogenous C8‐HSL. In addition, the addition of C6‐HSL and 3OC8‐HSL promoted the activity of Anammox granules when the operation temperatures of the reactors were 11–23°C. This study proposed a novel approach to improve the properties of Anammox granules at low temperatures from the perspective of QS.

Practitioner points

Endogenous AHLs played an important role in maintaining the activity and stability of Anammox granules at 11–23°C.

Exogenous C8‐HSL improved the granules stability at the low temperature of 11–16°C.

Exogenous C6‐HSL or 3OC8‐HSL promoted the granules activity at 11–23°C.

Supply a novel way to improve the Anammox granules performance at low temperatures.
Complementary MA‐XRF and μ‐Raman results on two Leonardo da Vinci drawings
Authors: Bicchieri Marina , Biocca Paola , Caliri Claudia , Romano Francesco Paolo
Published: February 2021

In 2018 all of Leonardo's drawings and manuscripts belonging to the Biblioteca Reale di Torino were moved to ICRCPAL for a complete scientific characterisation in preparation for the celebrations of the 500th anniversary of the artist's death. Except for the famous Autoritratto that was already studied twice in this manner (2012, 2015), the other drawings and documents had never been subjected to scientific investigations. This paper reports the results of the non‐destructive analysis of two drawings: Studi di gambe virili and Autoritratto. The use of three complementary techniques, namely macro‐X Ray Fluorescence (MA‐XRF), μ‐Raman spectroscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), that have different penetration into the material, allowed for the complete chemical characterisation of the artworks. The analyses evidenced the artist's versatility and his mastery in the use of metal points, even unusual ones, such as the pure copper‐point described in literature but never previously revealed in Leonardo's drawings and, to the knowledge of the authors, also in other artists of the 15th century. MA‐XRF also showed the presence of pentimenti in the Studi di gambe virili and highlighted that the Autoritratto was drawn without a metal point preparatory sketch. AFM topographies also revealed that the Autoritratto urgently requires chemical stabilisation. The data collected underline the need to reconsider and reassess the historic‐artistic descriptions of the drawings and that further investigation of other works by Leonardo is necessary to obtain more information supported by scientific studies on the artist's techniques and materials.
Legal and Ontological Pluralism: Recognising Rivers as More-Than-Human Entities
Authors: Parsons Meg , Fisher Karen , Crease Roa Petra
Published: February 2021

We explore the ways in which the formal recognition (to some extent) of Indigenous knowledge systems within environmental governance and the role of reconcilition in achieving environmental justice. We examine whether recent agreements between the New Zealand Crown (Crown) and Māori tribal groups (iwi), known as Treaty ‘settlements’, to establish shared co-governance and management over rivers encapsulate and are capable of achieving environmental justice for Māori. We draw on schoalrship on legal and ontological pluralism to consider questions of how to remedy environmental injustice and what reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples means in settler societies. Rather than seek to provide a singular definition of Indigenous environmental justice (IEJ), we instead examine how Indigenous peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand and other colonial societies are engaged in efforts to negotiate with and challenge the colonial legal orders, develop their laws, policies, and governance frameworks to achieve justice within the freshwater realm.
Pharmacotherapy in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Authors: Rao Latha P.
Published: February 2021

The field of pharmacology has always fascinated medical professionals—the ability to cure a disease by prescribing medicine is very tempting. Medical and surgical specialties benefit from the correct use of drugs, and oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) is no exception. Antibiotics, analgesics, and anti-inflammatory drugs are among commonly prescribed medicines in a maxillofacial surgical practice. Umpteen number of literature studies are available on the usage of these medicines in maxillofacial surgery. A review of literature is attempted in this chapter to reach a consensus in matters pertaining to these drugs. The task was in no way an easy one as no two studies compared the same group of medicines or similar pharmacological properties. The key facts, which have emerged from this literature search, have been projected in this chapter.
Management of Impacted Third Molars
Authors: Varghese George
Published: February 2021

Third molar impactions is one of the commonest minor oral surgical procedures in the realm of the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Many basic principles of minor oral surgery have to be applied in a logical manner to attain a good healing. The assessment, clinical and radiographic evaluation plays an important role in selecting the right technique to ensure good results. This chapter aims to go through the basics of third molar impactions in a sequential way to guide the clinician to take the right decisions.
Maxillary Sinusitis
Authors: Ganesan Kandasamy , Rathod Neelam
Published: February 2021

Maxillary sinusitis is a debilitating condition for patients due to the proximity of this anatomical structure to the dentition, oropharynx and orbital cavity and thus of paramount consideration for the oral and maxillofacial clinician. The etiopathology, when not due to oral antral communication and thus often secondary to an upper respiratory tract infection, can be multifactorial. It is the result of a detailed clinical assessment with appropriate investigations that an accurate diagnosis attained. Management of symptoms is the first course of action and provides the greatest perceived relief for the patient. Surgical management has multidisciplinary overlap and each specialism should work in harmony in their respective fortes for an optimum outcome. This chapter provides a detailed overview of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation and management of patients presenting with suspected maxillary sinusitis in the absence of oral antral communication.
Reactive Lesions of Oro-Maxillofacial Region
Authors: Gali Raja Sekhar
Published: February 2021

A plethora of pathologies occurs in the skeletal and soft tissues of the oro-facial region that are reactive. These arise as a result of chronic low-grade inflammation, trauma, hormonal influence and other causes. Varied types of clinical, radiological and histological presentations are often associated with these lesions that pose a diagnostic dilemma to the clinician. This chapter describes in detail the common reactive lesions of the maxillofacial region with an emphasis on correlating the clinical and investigational findings to arrive at the correct diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment.
Vascular Anomalies of the Oro-Maxillofacial Region
Authors: Nair Sanjiv , Shroff Sunil S.
Published: February 2021

Vascular anomalies is a diverse group of disorders involving the vasculature (arteries,veins and lymphatics). These lesions in the head and neck can present since birth or later in life causing functional, cosmetic and bleeding problems. They can sometimes co-exist with a wide array of other pathologies and components of various syndromes. The different types, classifications, clinical features, imaging characteristics, treatment options and complications will be discussed in detail, with accordance to guidelines and principles in current literature. The author has designed a widely accepted anatomical classification for surgical management of these complex lesions, which is discussed in depth. Tailoring therapy depending on the anomaly is the key to successful treatment. Hemangiomas tend to proliferate and then involute , hence treated with systemic medication or alternate therapy for residual lesions. Vascular Malformations essentially would require aggressive management with surgery or embolisation and surgery. The concept of ‘corset suturing’ is explained and described, which is thought to be the ideal management for large venous malformations.
Medicolegal Issues in Maxillofacial Surgery
Authors: Paul George , Rai Manjunath
Published: February 2021

Every profession is governed by a set of rules and regulations, and the same applies to the field of maxillofacial surgery. The young surgeon must therefore be aware of what legal requirements he/she must fulfil while practising the profession. Maxillofacial surgery is a challenging field that straddles both medicine and surgery, and therefore surgeons must be very aware of the legal scope of this field. Record keeping such as the informed consent and procedure notes are important legal requirements and must be maintained to provide legal proof of service and respect patient’s rights Maxillofacial surgeons play an important role as expert witnesses in cases of violence that have affected the head and neck region. In addition to all these legal requirements, the maxillofacial surgeon is also extremely vulnerable to civil or criminal litigation in the form of negligence. Surgeons must be aware of their duties and rights. They must also be familiar with legal issues like negligence and how to deal with it.
Research and Publishing in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Authors: Dimitroulis George
Published: February 2021

We have all been too quick to make up our minds and too slow to change them. In Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, our opinions are slaves to our prior experience. Ignorant confidence is what defined early Surgery as there was a distinct lack of interest in proving and promoting what was effective. The “God complex” among early Surgeons meant that what they thought was true did not need scientific evidence. It is only in more recent times that Surgical practice has embraced evidence to guard against rumour, bias, misconceptions and misunderstandings. Indeed, just in the last few decades we have witnessed the gradual evolution of Surgery from eminence-based practice, the idea that senior experienced Surgeons held all the knowledge, to evidence-based practice, where fair tests are employed to compare one treatment against the other in order to find what works best. History has taught us that clinical research leads to reforms in the practice of Surgery while basic research leads to revolutions in Medicine.
Obstructive Salivary Gland Disease and Sialendoscopy
Authors: Bachalli Prithvi S. , Moorthy Aditya
Published: February 2021

Obstructive salivary pathologies most commonly manifest as salivary stones (sialoliths), mucous plugs and sometimes due to narrowing of the duct (stricture/stenosis). Saliva produced by salivary glands flows into oral cavity by means of ducts. Blockage of these ducts due to the reasons mentioned above leads to sialadenitis (inflammation).

Sialendoscopy is a minimally invasive technique to manage salivary duct pathologies, including sialolithiasis, sialadenitis & strictures. It is fast becoming the investigating procedure of choice for such conditions.

In the last 25 years, Sialoendoscopy has gradually seen a rise in popularity for diagnostic and therapeutic means of dealing with obstructive salivary gland pathologies.
Fractures of the Mandible
Authors: Rai Anshul
Published: February 2021

Fracture of Mandible is the most common occurrence in comparison to any other bone of the maxillofacial region. Various classifications are put forward which are helpful in diagnosing the mandible fracture. This chapter focuses on the general and clinical examination of the maxillofacial region which helps in clinical diagnosis, different radiographic techniques, various approaches, emergency as well as surgical management and outcome with various modalities of treatment.
Panfacial Fractures
Authors: Gadre Kiran S. , Kumar Balasubramanya , Gadre Divya P.
Published: February 2021

Most panfacial fractures occur with concomitant injuries to other organs. Management of panfacial fractures is challenging and requires proper planning and sequencing along with adequate knowledge of its anatomy and management.. Airway, breathing, circulation, disability and exposure (ABCDE) always remain the primary care in any trauma setting. Maxillofacial surgeons play a key role in initial stabilisation of fractures, control of local hemorrharage to facial areas and estlabishment of definitive airway in special situations. Definitive treatment is usually done after stabilisation of the patient and systematic evaluation of all systemic injuries. Panfacial fractures demand a lot more planning towards their management. The understanding of same is described in this chapter, in a methododical manner starting from the philosophy, indications, clinical findings to its management in adults and children including the commonly seen complications. This should give the reader adequate knowledge to learn from the authors experiences and comprehensively be able to manage these injuries after having achieved a level of experience and excellence in maxillofacial surgery.
Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation
Authors: Krishnakumar Raja V. B.
Published: February 2021

Temporomandibular joint dislocation is one of the most common disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint. Sometimes it may be severe that it affects the daily activities of a person. Numerous treatment methods have been described in the literature with varying ranges of success. It is important to have a good knowledge about all the management techniques available so that it can be selected based upon the etiology of the condition.