bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metformin for pregnancy and beyond: the pros and cons
Authors: Newman Christine , Dunne Fidelma P
Published: September 2021

Context and Aim

Metformin has been used in pregnancy since the 1970s. It is cheap, widely available and is acceptable to women. Despite its increasing use, controversy remains surrounding its benefits and risks. Metformin effectively reduces hyperglycaemia for the mother during pregnancy and it reduces rates of macrosomia and neonatal hypoglycaemia. However, concern exists surrounding an increase in the rate of SGA births and obesity in childhood. We aim to review the evidence and expert opinion behind metformin in pregnancy through to the post‐partum period.

Methods

We performed a literature review of relevant studies from online databases using a combination of keywords. We also searched the references of retrieved articles for pertinent studies.

Results

There is strong evidence that metformin is safe in early pregnancy with no risk of congenital malformations. If used throughout pregnancy, it is likely to lead to reduced maternal weight gain and reduced insulin dose in women with type 2 diabetes. In infants, metformin reduces hypoglycaemia and macrosomia but may increase the rate of infants born SGA. There is some evidence of an increased risk of obesity and altered fat distribution in offspring. Metformin appears well tolerated in pregnancy and is more acceptable to women than insulin therapy.

Conclusion

Due to increasing rates of maternal obesity, GDM and type 2 diabetes, metformin use in pregnancy is increasing. Overall, it appears safe and effective but further research is needed to examine mechanisms linking metformin to obesity reported during childhood in some follow‐up studies.
Differences in insulin sensitivity in the partial remission phase of childhood type 1 diabetes; a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Mørk Freja C. B. , Madsen Jens Otto B. , Jensen Andreas K. , Hall Gerrit V. , Pilgaard Kasper A. , Pociot Flemming , Johannesen Jesper
Published: September 2021

Aims

Studies suggest that type 1 diabetes (T1D) contributes to impaired insulin sensitivity (IS). Most children with T1D experience partial remission but the knowledge regarding the magnitude and implications of impaired IS in this phase is limited. Therefore, we investigate the impact of IS on the partial remission phase.

Methods

In a longitudinal study of children and adolescents, participants were seen at three clinical visits during the first 14.5 months after diagnosis of T1D. Partial remission was defined as IDAA1c (HbA1c (%) + 4*daily insulin dose) ≤ 9. Beta‐cell function was considered significant by a stimulated c‐peptide > 300 pmol/L. Participants were characterized by (i) remission or non‐remission and (ii) stimulated c‐peptide levels above or below 300 pmol/L. IS, body mass index (BMI), total body fat, sex, age, pubertal status and ketoacidosis at onset were compared.

Results

Seventy‐eight children and adolescents aged 3.3–17.7 years were included. At 14.5 months post‐diagnosis, 54.5% of the participants with stimulated c‐peptide > 300 pmol/L were not in partial remission. Participants not in remission had significant lower IS 2.5 (p = 0.032), and 14.5 (p = 0.022) months after diagnosis compared to participants in partial remission with similar c‐peptide levels. IS did not fluctuate during the remission phase.

Conclusions

A number of children and adolescents have impaired IS in the remission phase of paediatric T1D and are not in remission 14.5 months after diagnosis despite stimulated c‐peptide > 300 pmol/L.
Characteristics and recognition of early infections in patients treated with commercial anti‐CD19 CAR‐T cells
Authors: Beyar‐Katz Ofrat , Kikozashvili Nino , Bar On Yael , Amit Odelia , Perry Chava , Avivi Irit , Gold Ronit , Herishanu Yair , Benyamini Noam , Duek Adrian , Ben‐Ami Ronen , Shasha David , Ram Ron
Published: September 2021

The characteristics of infections following chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR‐T) cells targeting CD19 in real‐word population are obscure. We analyzed infections' characteristics in the first month among consecutive patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (n = 60, median age, 69.3 years), treated with commercial CAR‐T cells. ECOG performance status (PS) was 2‐3 in most patients (58%). Infections were observed in 45% of patients (16, 27%, bacterial infections, and 14, 23%, viral infections). Bacterial infection included clinically documented infection in 7 (Pneumonia, n = 5; periodontal infection, n = 1; and cellulitis, n = 1) and microbiology documented infection (MDI) in 9 patients (Gram‐negative rod, n = 5; Gram‐positive cocci, n = 3, bacteremia; polymicrobial, n = 1). The most common viral infection was cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation (n = 10, 17%) leading to initiation of anti‐CMV treatment in 6 (60%) among these patients. None had CMV disease. In univariate analysis, immune effector cell‐associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) was associated with higher incidence of bacterial infection (OR=4.5, P = .018), while there was a trend for lower incidence of bacterial infections in patients with chemosensitive disease to bridging therapy (OR=0.375, P = .074). Age or PS was not associated with increased risk of bacterial infection. Increase in C‐reactive protein (CRP) prior to fever onset was associated with microbiologically documented infections. We conclude that infections are common in the first month following CAR‐T‐cell administration, however, were not increased in elderly patients or those presenting with poorer PS. Increase in CRP prior to fever onset could support infection over cytokine release syndrome.
Sex differences in the Norwegian Tenecteplase Trial (NOR‐TEST)
Authors: Ihle‐Hansen Håkon , Sandset Else Charlotte , Ihle‐Hansen Hege , Hagberg Guri , Thommessen Bente , Rønning Ole Morten , Kvistad Christopher Elnan , Novotny Vojtech , Næss Halvor , Waje‐Andreassen Ulrike , Thomassen Lars , Logallo Nicola
Published: September 2021

Background and purpose

Sex differences in acute ischemic stroke is of increasing interest in the era of precision medicine. We aimed to explore sex disparities in baseline characteristics, management and outcomes in patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis included in the Norwegian Tenecteplase trial (NOR‐TEST).

Methods

NOR‐TEST was an open‐label, randomized, blinded endpoint trial, performed from 2012 to 2016, comparing treatment with tenecteplase to treatment with alteplase within 4.5 h after acute ischemic stroke symptom onset. Sex differences at baseline, treatment and outcomes were compared using multivariable logistic regression models. Heterogeneity in treatment was evaluated by including an interaction term in the model.

Results

Of 1100 patients enrolled, 40% were women, and in patients aged >80 years, the proportion of women was greater than men (19% vs. 14%; p = 0.02). Women had a lower burden of cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes mellitus (11% vs. 15%; p = 0.05) and a higher mean high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol level (1.7 ± 0.6 mmol/L vs. 1.3 ± 0.4 mmol/L; p < 0.001), and a higher proportion of women had never smoked (45% vs. 33%; p < 0.001) compared with men. While there was no sex difference in time from onset of symptoms to admission, door to needle time or in‐hospital workup, women were admitted with more severe stroke (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] score 6.2 ± 5.6 vs. 5.3 ± 5.1; p = 0.01). Stroke mimic diagnosis was more common in women (21% vs. 15%; p = 0.01). There were no significant sex differences in clinical outcome, measured by the NIHSS, the modified Rankin Scale, intracranial hemorrhage and mortality.

Conclusion

Women were underrepresented in number in NOR‐TEST. The included women had a lower cardiovascular risk factor burden and more severe strokes.
Characterization and quantification of alcohol‐related polyneuropathy by magnetic resonance neurography
Authors: Rother Christian , Bumb Jan Malte , Weiler Markus , Brault Anna , Sam Georges , Hayes John M. , Pietsch Adriana , Karimian‐Jazi Kianush , Jende Johann M. E. , Heiland Sabine , Kiefer Falk , Bendszus Martin , Kollmer Jennifer
Published: September 2021

Background

We characterized and quantified peripheral nerve damage in alcohol‐dependent patients (ADP) by magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) in correlation with clinical and electrophysiologic findings.

Methods

Thirty‐one adult patients with a history of excessive alcohol consumption and age‐/sex‐matched healthy controls were prospectively examined. After detailed neurologic and electrophysiologic testing, the patient group was subdivided into ADP with alcohol‐related polyneuropathy (ALN) and without ALN (Non‐ALN). 3T MRN with anatomical coverage from the proximal thigh down to the tibiotalar joint was performed using dual‐echo 2‐dimensional relaxometry sequences with spectral fat saturation. Detailed quantification of nerve injury by morphometric (cross‐sectional area [CSA]) and microstructural MRN markers (proton spin density [ρ], apparent T2‐relaxation‐time [T2app]) was conducted in all study participants.

Results

MRN detected nerve damage in ADP with and without ALN. A proximal‐to‐distal gradient was identified for nerve T2‐weighted (T2w)‐signal and T2app in ADP, indicating a proximal predominance of nerve lesions. While all MRN markers differentiated significantly between ADP and controls, microstructural markers were able to additionally differentiate between subgroups: tibial nerve ρ at thigh level was increased in ALN (p < 0.0001) and in Non‐ALN (p = 0.0052) versus controls, and T2app was higher in ALN versus controls (p < 0.0001) and also in ALN versus Non‐ALN (p = 0.0214). T2w‐signal and CSA were only higher in ALN versus controls.

Conclusions

MRN detects and quantifies peripheral nerve damage in ADP in vivo even in the absence of clinically overt ALN. Microstructural markers (T2app, ρ) are most suitable for differentiating between ADP with and without manifest ALN, and may help to elucidate the underlying pathomechanism in ALN.
Neuroimmune regulation of white adipose tissues
Authors: Qian Xinmin , Meng Xia , Zhang Shan , Zeng Wenwen
Published: September 2021

The white adipose tissues (WAT) are located in distinct depots throughout the body. They serve as an energy reserve, providing fatty acids for other tissues via lipolysis when needed, and function as an endocrine organ to regulate systemic metabolism. Their activities are coordinated through intercellular communications among adipocytes and other cell types such as residential and infiltrating immune cells, which are collectively under neuronal control. The adipocytes and immune subtypes including macrophages/monocytes, eosinophils, neutrophils, group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), T and B cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and natural killer (NK) cells display cellular and functional diversity in response to the energy states and contribute to metabolic homeostasis and pathological conditions. Accumulating evidence reveals that neuronal innervations control lipid deposition and mobilization via regulating lipolysis, adipocyte size, and cellularity. Vice versa, the neuronal innervations and activity are influenced by cellular factors in the WAT. Though the literature describing adipose tissue cells is too extensive to cover in detail, we strive to highlight a selected list of neuronal and immune components in this review. The cell‐to‐cell communications and the perspective of neuroimmune regulation are emphasized to enlighten the potential therapeutic opportunities for treating metabolic disorders.
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION UNDER COSTLY INFORMATION PROCESSING
Authors: Naeher Dominik
Published: September 2021

A new explanation for imperfect technology adoption is proposed. In the model, agents allocate scarce attention rationally between actions and decide whether and how to adopt a technology. Introducing constraints to information processing gives rise to attentional barriers to technology adoption, which affect optimal adoption behavior. The model can explain why individuals (i) fail to adopt profitable technologies, (ii) fail to make the best use of adopted technology, (iii) treat complementary technologies as substitutes, and (iv) change their adoption decision back and forth over time. The model complements existing learning models and is consistent with empirical evidence.
An improved analytical method for determination of trans‐resveratrol and related stilbenes in grape skin by QuEChERS coupled with HPLC‐PDA‐MS
Authors: Hua Leng‐Huei , Stephen Inbaraj Baskaran , Chen Bing‐Huei
Published: September 2021

Grape is a popular fruit crop that generates about one‐fourth of total weight as pomace during winemaking and commercial juice production. However, a significant amount of resveratrol and related stilbenes is present in grape skin, and their effective isolation enables the production of functional foods. Herein, an improved analytical method for the determination of trans‐resveratrol and related stilbenes in grape skin waste by QuEChERS method coupled with a high‐performance liquid chromatograph‐photodiode array detector‐mass spectrometer was developed. By employing a Gemini C18 column and a mobile phase of acetic acid in water (pH 3.6) and acetonitrile, a total of five resveratrol and related stilbenes could be separated within 15 min with a flow rate of 0.8 mL min−1 and detection wavelength at 306 nm. The optimised QuEChERS conditions were 10 mL of acetonitrile, 1 mL of grape skin extract and 900 mg of magnesium sulphate plus 25 mg of primary secondary amine. Principal component analysis by two principal components (74.18%, 25.82%) could well describe the trans‐resveratrol recovery at different QuEChERS conditions. A mean recovery, as well as coefficient of variation (CV, %) of repeatability and intermediate precision, ranged from 96.6% to 104.4%, 1.96% to 3.10% and 1.68% to 4.27%, respectively, conforming to the regulation set by Taiwan Food and Drug Administration. Quantitation revealed cis‐piceid to be present in largest amount (2.616 μg mL−1), followed by trans‐piceid (1.027 μg mL−1), trans‐resveratrol (0.967 μg mL−1), ε‐viniferin (0.660 μg mL−1) and cis‐resveratrol (0.183 μg mL−1) in grape skin extract, with their corresponding contents in dried grape skin being 4.185, 1.643, 1.539, 1.056 and 0.293 μg g−1, respectively.
Accurate determination of meat mass fractions using DNA measurements for quantifying meat adulteration by digital PCR
Authors: Temisak Sasithon , Thangsunan Pattanapong , Boonnil Jiranun , Yenchum Watiporn , Hongthong Kanjana , Oss Boll Heloísa , Yata Teerapong , Rios‐Solis Leonardo , Morris Phattaraporn
Published: September 2021

The alarming problem of meat adulteration emphasises the demand for accessible analytical approaches for food regulatory agencies to detect and, specially, to measure altered meat fractions. This study proposes a novel cross‐species triplex droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to simultaneously identify and quantify the ratios of pork/beef meat fractions from a total DNA content, including processed and autoclaved meat, without requiring a standard, achieving high sensitivity with a limit of quantification estimated at 0.1% (w/w) and a limit of detection down to 0.01% (w/w). A single copy nuclear gene, β‐actin, was employed as a target, accompanied with myostatin gene as a cross‐species target to quantify the meat background. The duplex assay provided a simultaneous quantification of pork and myostatin, whereas the triplex assay was able to detect pork, beef and myostatin with a decrease of technical error, cost and time.
Comparison of flow cytometry and next‐generation sequencing in minimal residual disease monitoring of acute myeloid leukemia: One institute’s practical clinical experience
Authors: F. McGowan Paul , D. Hyter Stephen , Cui Wei , Plummer Regina M. , Godwin Andrew K. , Zhang Da
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Monitoring patients with acute myeloid leukemia can be implemented through various techniques such as multiparameter flow cytometry, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and next‐generation sequencing. However, there is scarce studies when comparing the data of next‐generation sequencing and flow cytometry for monitoring disease progression, particularly how they might supplement one another when used in tandem.

Methods

We investigated 107 patients via retrospective analysis using follow‐up MFC and NGS data with a total of 717 MFC and 247 NGS studies to compare these methods in monitoring minimal/measurable residual disease.

Results

197 instances were MFC+/NGS+, 3 were MFC−/NGS−, 44 were MFC−/NGS+, and 3 are MFC+/NGS−. The majority of the MFC−/NGS+cases occurred within 6 months during the post‐treatment phase (64%). Among 44 MFC−/NGS+instances, 13 had similar NGS profiles to their original day 0 diagnosis. The remaining cases showed preleukemic clonal hematopoiesis mutations, “likely pathogenic mutations,” or “variants of uncertain significance.”

Conclusion

Our findings show that flow cytometry has its advantages with comparable sensitivity in detecting minimal/measurable residual disease. Next‐generation sequencing could be used in an increased and more regular capacity in conjunction with flow cytometry to achieve a more comprehensive surveillance of these patients, resulting in improved outcomes.
Potentially preventable hospitalisations in rural community‐dwelling patients
Authors: Ridge Andrew , Peterson Gregory M. , Kitsos Alex , Seidel Bastian M. , Anderson Vinah , Nash Rosie
Published: September 2021

Background

Potentially preventable hospitalisations (PPH) are a common occurrence. Knowing the factors associated with PPH may allow high‐risk patients to be identified and healthcare resources to be better allocated, and these factors may differ between urban and rural locations.

Aim

To determine factors associated with PPH in an Australian rural population.

Methods

A retrospective review of admitted patients' demographic and clinical data was used to describe and model the factors associated with PPH, using an age‐ and sex‐matched control group of non‐admitted patients. This study is based in a multi‐site rural general practice, Tasmania. The study included patients aged ≥18 years residing in the Huon‐Bruny Island region of Tasmania, who were active patients at a rural general practice and were admitted to a public hospital for a PPH between 1 July 2016 and 30 June 2019. Main outcome measure is overnight admission to hospital for a PPH.

Results

Predictors with a significant odds ratio (OR) in the final model were being single/unmarried (OR 2.43; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.38–4.28), higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score (OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.13–1.74) and the number of general practice visits in the preceding 12 months (OR 1.09; 95% CI 1.05–1.14).

Conclusions

This study found that being single and having a higher comorbidity burden were the strongest independent risk factors for PPH in a rural population. Demographic and socioeconomic factors appeared to be as, if not more, important than medical factors and warrant attention when considering the design of programmes to reduce PPH risk in rural communities.
Comparative evaluation of various herbal extracts on biofilms of Streptococcus mutans and Scardovia wiggsiae: An in vitro study
Authors: Demirez Bircan Zeynep , Aydinoglu Sema , Arslan Ipek , Alpay Karaoglu Sengul , Yurteri Emine , Bozdeveci Arif
Published: September 2021

Background

Owing to their strong antimicrobial properties, Helichrysum arenarium (HA), Anzer thyme (AT), and Stevia rebaudiana (SR) have been commonly used in medicine.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate antimicrobial activities of HA, AT, and SR against S. mutans and S. wiggsiae in biofilms formed on primary teeth.

Design

Fifty enamel samples were divided into two groups: mono‐species biofilm and two‐species biofilm. Each biofilm group was divided into five subgroups (n = 5): group 1, HA; group 2, AT; group 3, SR; group 4, CHX (positive control); and group 5, distilled water (negative control). Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were determined. The number of viable microorganisms was counted. The presence of microorganisms was examined using a scanning electron microscope, and mineral analysis was performed using energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis.

Results

In the mono‐species biofilm, CHX was significantly more effective against S. mutans than other groups (p < .001). Furthermore, HA, AT, and SR groups showed significantly lower colony counts of S. mutans than distilled water (p < .05). In the two‐species biofilm group, AT, SR, and CHX were significantly more effective against S. wiggsiae than distilled water (p < .05).

Conclusions

HA, AT, and SR have been suggested as effective natural alternatives to CHX against cariogenic bacteria.
Utilization of palm oil mill effluent as a novel substrate for the production of antifungal compounds by Streptomyces philanthi RM-1-138 and evaluation of its efficacy in suppression of three strains of oil palm pathogen
Authors: Boukaew Sawai , Cheirsilp Benjamas , Yossan Siriporn , Khunjan Uraiwan , Petlamul Wanida , Prasertsan Poonsuk
Published: September 2021

Aims

This study aimed to use palm oil mill effluent (POME) as a renewable resource for the production of antifungal compounds by Streptomyces philanthi RM-1-138 against Ganoderma boninense, Ceratocystis paradoxa and Curvularia oryzae.

Methods and results

The efficacy of antifungal compounds RM-1-138 against the three strains of fungal oil palm pathogen was evaluated both in vitro and on oil palm leaf segments. In vitro studies using confrontation tests on glucose yeast-malt extract (GYM) agar plates indicated that the strain RM-1-138 inhibited the growth of all three fungal pathogenic strains. The antifungal compounds produced in the GYM medium exhibited significantly higher inhibition (79%–100%) against the three fungal pathogens than using the diluted POME (50%) medium (80%–83% inhibition). The optimum condition for the production of antifungal compounds from the strain RM-1-138 was as following: POME of 47,966 mg L−1 chemical oxygen demand (COD), the initial pH at 7.0 and supplemented with yeast extract (0.4%). Meanwhile, severe morphological and internal abnormalities in C. oryzae hyphae were observed under a scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. In vivo experiment on oil palm leaf segments indicated that the efficacy of the antifungal compounds RM-1-138 (DSI = 1.3) were not significantly difference in the suppression of Curvularia leaf spot compared with the two commercial chemical fungicides of mancozeb® (DSI = 1.0) and tetraconazole® (DSI = 1.3).

Conclusions

Antifungal compounds produced by S. philanthi RM-1-138 grown in POME have the potential to inhibit fungal pathogens.

Significance and impact of the study

The POME (about 47 mg L−1 COD) with the initial pH of 7.0 and supplementation of 0.4% nitrogen could be used as a culture medium for the growth and production of antifungal compounds of S. philanthi RL-1-138. In addition, the antifungal compound RM-1-138 could suppress the three strains of oil palm fungal pathogen tested on oil palm leaf segment.
Effects of Ganfule capsule on microbial and metabolic profiles in anti-hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xu Fei , Li Hanyin , Pan Yu , Zeng Yangli , Li Juan , Li Shunxiang
Published: September 2021

Aims

Based on the gut microbiota and plasma metabolites, the underlying mechanism was analysed for the anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) effects of Ganfule capsule (GFL) in the study.

Methods and results

The UPLC-Q-TOF/MS results showed that 13 key compounds were identified in GFL and the major active ingredients included amygdalin, saikosaponin A, astragaloside I, etc. The nude mice received HepG2 injection, and GFL showed lower volume and weight of the tumour. In addition, the apoptosis proteins (Bax and Bcl2) were altered in response to GFL treatment, and apoptosis cells were increased, indicating an anti-HCC effect. Interestingly, 16S rDNA results showed that GFL treatment improved gut microbiota diversity and compositions, especially for the beneficial bacteria, such as Bacilli, Lactobacillales, Lactobacillus, Lactobacillaceae, Firmicutes, Lactobacillus_reuteri and Lactobacillus_gasseri. Metabonomics further identified 426 metabolites and 343 metabolites variation in the positive and negative ion modes after GFL treatment, which might be associated with amino acid, lipid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism pathways, indicating these metabolites might involve in the protective role of GFL in HCC. Correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between gut microbiota and plasma metabolites.

Conclusion

In conclusion, GFL exerted an anti-HCC effect in the nude murine model, which might be associated with microbial and metabolic improvements.

Significance and impact of the study

This study is the first to report the anti-HCC effect of GFL associated with gut microbiota and plasma metabolites. GFL may improve the gut microbiota structure, such as increasing probiotics – Lactobacillus. It also provides a new strategy for the scientific demonstration of the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine.
Werner syndrome presenting as early‐onset diabetes: A case report
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Liu Siruo , Qin Fengye , Liu Qian , Wang Qiuyue
Published: September 2021

Werner syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive premature progeroid syndrome caused by mutations in the WRN gene. It is characterized by early onset of age‐related diseases, such as cataracts, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis and malignancies, in which diabetes often onset in patients’ 30–40s. Herein, we report a Chinese patient with Werner syndrome with uncommon early‐onset diabetes at 18 years‐of‐age, who had low body mass index, insulin resistance, negative antibodies of diabetes and early onset of cataracts. Genome sequencing and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction confirm the diagnosis. A novel heterozygous splice‐site mutation in the WRN gene (c.1270‐2A>T) was identified. The present case reminds clinicians that when young diabetes patients are encountered, if they are accompanied by premature aging, attention should be paid to identifying the possibility of Werner syndrome based on diagnostic criteria.
Validity and reliability of the Japanese version of the diabetes knowledge test among in‐patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Minami Taichi , Shirakawa Jun , Hiiragi Hiroko , Yamada Taku , Suzuki Youichi , Shirabe Shinitiro , Maeda Hajime , Terauchi Yasuo
Published: September 2021

Aims/Introduction

The diabetes knowledge test (DKT) is unavailable in Japan. In this study, we developed and evaluated a Japanese version of the DKT (J‐DKT) for in‐patients with type 2 diabetes before and after receiving diabetes education.

Materials and Methods

The J‐DKT contains 12 questions (0–12 points) to assess knowledge regarding diabetes, its complications, and diabetic nutrition therapy. During the median 10 days of hospitalization, 107 patients with type 2 diabetes received diabetes education (20 min private lessons every day from physicians, two nutrition counselling programs from dietitians, and a 2 h group session conducted by physicians, dietitians, and nurses). The J‐DKT was administered on admission and before discharge. To confirm the J‐DKT’s reliability, we assessed the internal consistency using Cronbach’s α (≥0.70 was considered acceptable). To evaluate its validity, we investigated changes in the J‐DKT total scores after the education programs and examined the differences in the scores among groups classified based on patient characteristics such as age, diabetes‐related hospitalization history, and hospitalization duration.

Results

The J‐DKT total scores increased from 5 to 8 (P ˂ 0.01) after the education programs. The J‐DKT before and after the program showed a Cronbach’s α of 0.48 and 0.73, respectively. Except for age, baseline characteristics such as history and period of hospitalization for diabetes were not associated with the J‐DKT scores after the education program.

Conclusions

The validity and reliability of the J‐DKT after the diabetes education program were acceptable in this study.
Diaphorina communis: Molecular identification, development on Citrus reticulata, and acquisition and transmission of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’
Authors: Om Namgay , Beattie George Andrew Charles , Donovan Nerida J. , Holford Paul
Published: September 2021

The black curry leaf psyllid, Diaphorina communis, is a host of the citrus pathogen, ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (‘CLas’). However, there is a paucity of information on its biology; hence, this study was conducted to evaluate survival and development on citrus, in this instance mandarin (Citrus reticulata) and curry leaf (Bergera koenigii), and transmission of ‘CLas’. Given its similarity with the Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri), sequences of the COI and 16S genes were examined to see if they could distinguish molecularly between nymphs of these two species. Field and laboratory experiments showed that D. communis nymphs transferred to mandarin branches failed to survive. Adults could survive on flush growth of ‘CLas’‐infected mandarin trees; however, little oviposition took place, and the single resulting nymph did not survive to the second instar. These observations suggest that D. communis does not develop, or rarely develops on mandarin and possibly other Citrus spp. Curry leaf appears to be its preferred host, and complete development can take place, possibly exclusively, on this species. Studies on acquisition of ‘CLas’ by D. communis and possible transmission assessed in 2014 and 2015 using greenhouse‐grown curry leaf and mandarin seedlings with naturally infected mandarin stumps as a source of ‘CLas’ indicated a low acquisition rate of ‘CLas’. In addition, although D. communis can acquire ‘CLas’, it either cannot transmit it or transmission is limited, and the pathogen may not multiply within the insect. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that differences in COI and 16S regions may prove useful for differentiating between early instar D. communis and D. citri nymphs when fifth instar nymphs and adults are not present on host plants.
Immune response of silver pomfret (Pampus argenteus) to Amyloodinium ocellatum infection
Authors: Zhang Youyi , Hu Jiabao , Li Yaya , Zhang Man , Jacques Kimran Jean , Gu Weiwei , Sun Yibo , Sun Jiachu , Yang Yang , Xu Shanliang , Wang Yajun , Yan Xiaojun
Published: September 2021

Amyloodinium ocellatum (AO) infection in silver pomfret (Pampus argenteus) causes extensive mortality. Insufficient information exists on the molecular immune response of silver pomfret to AO infestation, so herein we simulated the process of silver pomfret being infected by AO. Translucent trophosomes were observed on the gills of AO‐infected fish. Transcriptome profiling was performed to investigate the effects of AO infection on the gill, kidney complex and spleen. Overall, 404,412,298 clean reads were obtained, assembling into 96,341 unigenes, which were annotated against public databases. In total, 2730 differentially expressed genes were detected, and few energy‐ and immune‐related genes were further assessed using RT‐qPCR. Moreover, activities of three immune‐related (SOD, AKP and ACP) and three energy‐related (PKM, LDH and GCK) enzymes were determined. AO infection activated the immune system and increased interleukin‐1 beta and immunoglobulin M heavy chain levels. Besides, the PPAR signalling pathway was highly enriched, which played a role in improving immunity and maintaining homeostasis. AO infection also caused dyspnoea, leading to extensive lactic acid accumulation, potentially contributing towards a strong immune response in the host. Our data improved our understanding regarding the immune response mechanisms through which fish coped with parasitic infections and may help prevent high fish mortality in aquaculture.
Mechanistic support of traditional Persian medicine for the treatment of acne vulgaris: A scoping review
Authors: Pasalar Mehdi , Tabatabaei Fatemeh , Bradley Ryan , Tajadini Haleh , Kamali Mohadese , Hasheminasab Fatemeh Sadat , Parvizi Mohammad Mahdi
Published: September 2021

Background

Acne vulgaris is one of the most prevalent skin diseases, which also contributes to many psychological problems. Despite the recent progress in the treatment of acne vulgaris, the necessity for discovering more effective solutions has motivated many lines of research on natural and medicinal plants. The Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM) introduced some plants and remedies for acne treatment. Given the universal welcome for herbal medicine, this review was performed to formally assess the evidence for herbal medicines for acne vulgaris in TPM.

Methods

The medicinal plants used in this study for treating acne vulgaris were selected based on common references to the plants in five famous textbooks of TPM from different time periods. Then, the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐microbial effects of these medicinal plants were investigated according to the recent literature available in five electronic databases including Scopus, Web of Sciences, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct.

Results

Twenty‐one herbs were commonly references in traditional TPM texts as helpful for topical treatment of acne vulgaris. The data collected from the electronic databases demonstrated most of these plants (eg, Astragalus sarcocolla, Ficus carica, and Hordeum vulgare) have both anti‐inflammatory and anti‐microbial mechanisms, which may assist to treat acne vulgaris.

Conclusion

This scoping review demonstrated many medicinal plants recommended by TPM books have therapeutic potential for acne vulgaris via multiple mechanisms.
Thiol/disulfide homeostasis and its relationship with insulin resistance in patients with rosacea
Authors: Demir Pektas Suzan , Cinar Nese , Pektas Gokhan , Akbaba Gulhan , Kara Ahmet , Hancer Hilal Semra , Demircioglu Duman Deniz , Neselioglu Salim , Erel Ozcan , Yazgan Aksoy Duygu
Published: September 2021

Background

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory cutaneous disease that can be associated with cardiometabolic disorders. Oxidative stress is included in the pathogenesis of rosacea, and thiol‐disulfide homeostasis (TDH) acts as antioxidants.

Objective

To evaluate the TDH and metabolic parameters in patients with rosacea.

Material and Methods

A total of 42 rosacea patients and 50 controls participated in this prospective study. Demographic data, clinical entities, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory findings were recorded. Additionally, TDH was measured by an automated spectrophotometric method.

Results

Rosacea patients had greater body mass index values (27.9 ± 5.2 kg/m² vs. 23 ± 1.4 kg/m², p < 0.001), waist‐hip ratios (0.87 ± 0.1 vs. 0.77 ± 0.8, p < 0.001), and insulin resistance (3.0 ± 2.0 vs. 1.3 ± 0.5, p < 0.001) compared with controls. Disulfide levels, the disulfide/native thiol ratio (DNTR), and the disulfide/total thiol ratio (DTTR) were increased (p < 0.05) in rosacea patients. Native thiol and total thiol levels and the native/total thiol ratio (NTTR) were decreased in rosacea patients (p < 0.05). Different rosacea subtypes had no effect on oxidative stress markers. The duration of illness and insulin resistance values significantly correlated with DNTR and DTTR in the rosacea group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Rosacea has a metabolic milieu with increased oxidative stress and insulin resistance.
Inflammatory and fibrotic mechanisms in NAFLD—Implications for new treatment strategies
Authors: Lee Youngmin A. , Friedman Scott L.
Published: September 2021

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease is comprised of either simple steatosis (non‐alcoholic fatty liver) or a more advanced inflammatory and fibrogenic stage (non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH]). NASH affects a growing proportion of the global adult and pediatric population, leading to rising rates of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is a multifactorial disease that is part of a systemic metabolic disorder. Here, we provide an overview of the metabolic underpinnings of NASH pathogenesis and established drivers of inflammation and fibrosis. Clarification of underlying fibrogenic and inflammatory mechanisms will advance the development of novel treatment strategies as there are no approved therapies at present. We discuss emerging experimental approaches and potential novel investigational strategies derived from animal models including the inflammasome, epigenetic reprogramming, Hippo signaling, Notch signaling, engineered T cells to remove fibrogenic HSCs, and HSC‐specific targeting therapies. Recently completed and ongoing clinical trials and antifibrotics are discussed, illuminating the growing expectation that one or more therapies will yield clinical benefit in NASH in the coming years.
Automatic detection of impact craters on Al foils from the Stardust interstellar dust collector using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Jaeger Logan , Butterworth Anna L. , Gainsforth Zack , Lettieri Robert , Zevin Dan , Ardizzone Augusto , Capraro Michael , Burchell Mark , Wozniakiewicz Penny , Ogliore Ryan C. , De Gregorio Bradley T. , Stroud Rhonda M. , Westphal Andrew J.
Published: September 2021

NASA's Stardust mission utilized a sample collector composed of aerogel and aluminum foil to return cometary and interstellar particles to Earth. Analysis of the aluminum foil begins with locating craters produced by hypervelocity impacts of cometary and interstellar dust. Interstellar dust craters are typically less than one micrometer in size and are sparsely distributed, making them difficult to find. In this paper, we describe a convolutional neural network based on the VGG16 architecture that achieves high specificity and sensitivity in locating impact craters in the Stardust interstellar collector foils. We evaluate its implications for current and future analyses of Stardust samples.
Drosophila versus Mycobacteria: A model for mycobacterial host–pathogen interactions
Authors: Marshall Eleanor K. P. , Dionne Marc S.
Published: September 2021

Animal models have played an essential role in understanding the host–pathogen interactions of pathogenic mycobacteria, including the Mycobacterium tuberculosis and emerging nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) species such as M. avium and M. abscessus. Drosophila melanogaster has become a well‐established model for the study of innate immunity and is increasingly being used as a tool to study host–pathogen interactions, in part due to its genetic tractability. The use of D. melanogaster has led to greater understanding of the role of the innate immune system in response to mycobacterial infection, including in vitro RNAi screens and in vivo studies. These studies have identified processes and host factors involved in mycobacterial infection, such as those required for cellular entry, those required to control or resist non‐pathogenic mycobacteria, or factors that become dysregulated as a result of mycobacterial infection. Developments in genetic tools for manipulating mycobacterial genomes will allow for more detailed studies into how specific host and pathogen factors interact with one another by using D. melanogaster; however, the full potential of this model has not yet been reached. Here we provide an overview of how D. melanogaster has been used to study mycobacterial infection and discuss the current gaps in our understanding.
Arabidopsis aldehyde oxidase 3, known to oxidize abscisic aldehyde to abscisic acid, protects leaves from aldehyde toxicity
Authors: Nurbekova Zhadyrassyn , Srivastava Sudhakar , Standing Dominic , Kurmanbayeva Assylay , Bekturova Aizat , Soltabayeva Aigerim , Oshanova Dinara , Turečková Veronica , Strand Miroslav , Biswas Md. Sanaullah , Mano Jun’ichi , Sagi Moshe
Published: September 2021

The Arabidopsis thaliana aldehyde oxidase 3 (AAO3) catalyzes the oxidation of abscisic aldehyde (ABal) to abscisic acid (ABA). Besides ABal, plants generate other aldehydes that can be toxic above a certain threshold. AAO3 knockout mutants (aao3) exhibited earlier senescence but equivalent relative water content compared with wild‐type (WT) during normal growth or upon application of UV‐C irradiation. Aldehyde profiling in leaves of 24‐day‐old plants revealed higher accumulation of acrolein, crotonaldehyde, 3Z‐hexenal, hexanal and acetaldehyde in aao3 mutants compared with WT leaves. Similarly, higher levels of acrolein, benzaldehyde, crotonaldehyde, propionaldehyde, trans‐2‐hexenal and acetaldehyde were accumulated in aao3 mutants upon UV‐C irradiation. Aldehydes application to plants hastened profuse senescence symptoms and higher accumulation of aldehydes, such as acrolein, benzaldehyde and 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal, in aao3 mutant leaves as compared with WT. The senescence symptoms included greater decrease in chlorophyll content and increase in transcript expression of the early senescence marker genes, Senescence‐Related‐Gene1, Stay‐Green‐Protein2 as well as NAC‐LIKE, ACTIVATED‐BY AP3/P1. Notably, although aao3 had lower ABA content than WT, members of the ABA‐responding genes SnRKs were expressed at similar levels in aao3 and WT. Moreover, the other ABA‐deficient mutants [aba2 and 9‐cis‐poxycarotenoid dioxygenase3‐2 (nced3‐2), that has functional AAO3] exhibited similar aldehydes accumulation and chlorophyll content like WT under normal growth conditions or UV‐C irradiation. These results indicate that the absence of AAO3 oxidation activity and not the lower ABA and its associated function is responsible for the earlier senescence symptoms in aao3 mutant.
Speculative attacks and investor attention
Authors: Piccoli Pedro
Published: September 2021

This paper presents the first evidence that the investor attention can be used to forecast currency prices in a speculative attack. Investigating the attacks that affected several emerging economies in the second semester of 2018, I document a strong influence of investor attention on the price and risk of the currency under attack, and this influence monotonically rises with the increase of the attacks’ severity. Moreover, this association is absent outside of the attacks or for those emerging currencies that did not experience an attack in the sample period. These findings are robust to several alternative explanations and provide further support for the importance of retail investors to asset pricing.
HDD by Intersection Technique (Case Study): A Novel Approach
Authors: Mazumdar Dipanjan , Singh Akhilesh Kumar , Kishore Raj
Published: September 2021

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is a trenchless construction technique used extensively in the installation of pipeline carrying hydrocarbons, water, sewage, cables etc., across obstructions where conventional trench and lay method or jacking-boring method cannot be suitably applied. HDD technique also minimises the impact of installation activities in densely populated and ecologically sensitive areas. HDD technique, however, has its inherent shortcomings which render it unsuitable in many real-world scenarios. The torque available at the mud-motor for driving and steering of the drill is fairly reduced for long length crossings. Also, maintaining the directional control of the drill bit becomes increasingly difficult for such long crossings. These shortcomings can be overcome using “Intersect Technique” by utilising electromagnetic steering technology for precise real-time tracking, wherein pilot holes are drilled from both ends using two separate drilling arrangements. On reaching the predefined intersection range, a virtual handshake between the drill bits is achieved. Thereafter, the primary rig continues the bore to the end of the design path to reach at the secondary rig side.

The present case study discusses at length the execution of HDD crossing of 18”- 2523 metre multi-product pipeline alongwith 6” CS conduit for OFC of M/s BPCL across the Thane-Vashi Creek in Mumbai, India. The length of the crossing combined with the presence of numerous pipelines of various operators made the execution of this pipeline crossing by “Intersection Technique” as the most suitable methodology. The pipeline was laid at an average depth of 15 m below the lowest creek bed level in geology which primarily included weathered basalt rock. The pilot hole for the crossing was completed utilising ParaTrack® drilling guidance and tracking system.
Manufacturing of LSAW Pipes Using Hot Rolled Sheets for Sour-Service Application
Authors: Goyal Rajesh Kumar , Gajjar Mahesh , Joshi Ashok , Tamhane Anupkumar
Published: September 2021

The exploration and transportation of fluids from corrosive fields or reserves demand corrosion-resistant pipelines. The pipelines for sour-service application demand higher resistance to H2S corrosion because of higher sulphur content observed in the geographical locations. The pipelines laid in the corrosive and marshy lands demand high wall thickness to allow for wall thinning due to corrosion. The linepipes manufactured using TMCP plates are widely accepted for sour-service applications. The use of cut-to-length sheets from hot rolled coils for the manufacturing of LSAW pipes is economical but having limited acceptance by the pipeline operators.

Welspun took an initiative to develop the linepipes for an onshore sour-service application using API 5L X60MS grade cut-to-length sheets from TMCP hot rolled coils procured from an approved steel mill. The LSAW pipes of 24” OD × 14.27 mm WT were manufactured by the JCO-E press at Welspun Pipes Mill in Anjar-Gujarat-India. The experience of 24”OD × 14.30 mm WT, API 5L X60MO grade pipes manufacturing using TMCP plates procured from another approved steel mill, was used to decide factors such as alloy design, cleanliness, strength, DWTT, hardness, HIC, SSCC, CVN for the selection of cut-to-length sheets. This paper deals with sheet-to-pipe behavioural changes in properties before and after cold mechanical expansion. Wherever possible, the comparison was also made with plate-pipe behavioural changes in properties.
Investigation of Ultrasonic Testing Failure in ERW Line Pipe of API 5L X52M Grade
Authors: Patel R. S. , Sharma Mayank , Chauhan Dhrumil , Makvana Hiral
Published: September 2021

Electric resistance welding (ERW) is conventional manufacturing technology for production of linepipe. ERW is known for its low cost, high efficiency & reliability. Investigation was performed on Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) pipes having Ultrasonic Test (UT) indication observed during in-process inspection. The location of indication was adjacent to weld fusion line. The study was done on pipe size 168 mm (6.6 inch) outside diameter and 6.4 mm wall thickness of API 5L X52M grade to verify the cause of UT failure related to pipe manufacturing process and/or steel making process. The samples were drawn from UT indicated area and analysis is carried out by chemical testing, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy. From systematical research by Why-Why analysis, it is clear that the reason of sub-surface defects on ERW pipe is due to presence of non-metallic inclusions. On the basis of the composition of observed non metallic inclusion, possible sources are identified. The countermeasures for each source cause were verified and successfully implemented the affected one.
Genome-Wide CRISPR Screen Identifies RACK1 as a Critical Host Factor for Flavivirus Replication
Authors: Shue Byron , Chiramel Abhilash I. , Cerikan Berati , To Thu-Hien , Frölich Sonja , Pederson Stephen M. , Kirby Emily N. , Eyre Nicholas S. , Bartenschlager Ralf F. W. , Best Sonja M. , Beard Michael R.
Published: September 2021

Cellular factors are critical in all facets of viral lifecycles, where overlapping interactions between the virus and host can be exploited as possible avenues for the development of antiviral therapeutics. Using a genome-wide CRISPR knockout screening approach to identify novel cellular factors important for flavivirus replication we identified RACK1 as a pro-viral host factor for both mosquito- and tick-borne flaviviruses in addition to SARS-CoV-2.