bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiomyocyte Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells on the Surface of Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Caserta Sergio , Barra Mario , Manganelli Genesia , Tomaiuolo Giovanna , Filosa Stefania , Cassinese Antonio , Guido Stefano
Published: May 2013

Purpose

Electrically active supports provide new horizons for bio-sensing and artificial organ design. Cell-based electrochemical biosensors can be used as bio-microactuators, applied to the biorobotics. Microchip-based bioassay systems can provide real-time cell analysis for preclinical drug design or for intelligent drug delivery devices. In regenerative medicine, electrically active supports can be used as bio-reactors to monitor cell activity, optimize the stem cell differentiation and control cell and tissue morphology. Biocompatibility and direct interaction of the electrically active surface with the cell surface is a critical aspect of this technology.

Methods

In this work embryonic stem cells (AK7 ES) have been cultivated on the surface of thin films achieved through the evaporation of two aromatic compounds (T6 and PDI-8CN2) of particular interest for the fabrication of organic field-effect transistors (OFET). One of the potential advantages offered by the application of OFETs as bio-electronic supports is that they represent a powerful tool for the detection of bio-signals because their electrically active surface is an organic film.

Results

The cell morphology on T6 and PDI-8CN 2 surface shows to be similar to the usual cell appearance, as obtained when standard culture support (petri dish) are employed. Moreover, our experimental results demonstrate that stem cells can be lead to differentiation up to “beating” cardiomyocytes even on these electrically-active organic films.

Conclusions

This investigation encourages the perspective to develop OFET-based biosensors in order to accurately characterize stem cells during the cardiac differentiation process and eventually increase their differentiation efficiency.
Diagnostic Value of NT-ProBNP for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Maoujoud Omar , Asseraji Mohammed , Aatif Taoufiq , Zajjari Yassir , Bahadi Abdelali , Benyahya Mohammed , Tellal Saida
Published: May 2013

We measured NT-proBNP levels in 30 stable patients on maintenance haemodialysis, before and after hemodialysis session with low-flux polysulfone dialyzers, all mesures were done by a third-generation assay (Elecsys Analyzer, Roche Diagnostics, Mannheim, Germany). We hypothesized that serum NT-proBNP cut-off value could serve as a biochemical marker to detect LVH in patients on haemodialysis treatment, regardless of chronic fluid overload. We assessed LV masse using trans-thoracic echocardiography, LVH was defined as an indexed left ventricular mass> 134 g/m2 in man and 110 g/m2 in woman. NT-proBNP levels increased significantly after hemodialysis sessions (5575,93 ± 5509,53 versus 4114,3856,37 ± pg/ml p<0,0001). A significant positive correlation was found between NT-proBNP level and left ventricular mass (r = 0.75, P<0.0001). NT-proBNP was significantly higher in patients with LVH: (5270,35 ± 3410,23 versus 2477,27 ± 1421,91 pg/ml P = 0,045). In the multivariate regression analysis NT-proBNP was the only independent predictor of LVH (r = 0.75, P<0.0001 Our results suggests that NT-proBNP could be a potential marker of LVH in chronic renal failure patients on hemodialysis.
Duplex Ultrasound Volumetric Flow Analysis before and after Hemodialysis in Patients with Brachio-cephalic Fistulae
Authors: Chowdhury Shakila , Goss David , Mistry Hiren , Stephenson Matthew A. , Seed Paul , Deane Colin , Valenti Domenico
Published: May 2013

Purpose

The United Kingdom Renal Association recommends duplex ultrasound to monitor arteriovenous fistula (AVF) flow rates during surveillance. Significant flow rate changes should prompt further investigation or treatment to avoid a failing fistula. Hemodialysis is known to alter the hemorrheologic and physiologic factors with a potential impact on measured flow rates. The aim of this study was to determine the difference in flow rate measured with duplex ultrasound before and after a single hemodialysis session in patients with brachial-cephalic fistulae.

Methods

Patients with brachial-cephalic AVFs in our dialysis populations who were undergoing regular hemodialysis without recent intervention (less than six weeks) were invited to participate. Flow measurements were made pre-and post-hemodialysis using a Zonare ultrasound machine. The vascular scientist was always blinded to the pre-hemodialysis flow.

Results

A total of 157 patients were identified with brachial-cephalic fistulae. Following exclusions, 119 patients were eligible. However, a further 58 were excluded because they declined or did not attend leaving 61 patients in the study. Paired t test showed a statistically significant reduction in flow rate of 105 mL/min (P=0.026) post-hemodialysis which equates to a −6.9% change in flow (95% C.I. −12.7 to −0.8%). Bland-Altman analysis showed limits of flow rate agreement between −599 mL/min and +810 mL/min (+/-1.96 s.d.).

Conclusions

Whilst we have shown a statistically significant change in flow rate post-hemodialysis, this is small and should be taken in the context of previously accepted interobserver variability. Therefore, the practical and financial considerations of implementing an AVF surveillance programme are likely to outweigh the minimal benefit of consistency that would be enabled by strict protocol of pre-hemodialysis flow measurements.
Acute Cardiorenal Syndrome by High Flow Arteriovenous Fistula after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Nickel Peter , Gül Safak , Puhl Gero , Poellinger Alexander , Schindler Ralf
Published: May 2013

Purpose

The aim of this work was to increase recognition of high flow arteriovenous fistulas in kidney transplant patients.

Case

Here, we report the case of a 22-year-old man with repeated hospitalizations for cardiomegaly and chronic pericardial effusion after kidney transplantation. Eventually, high flow of his arteriovenous fistula was recognized 5.5 years after transplantation when he developed acute cardiorenal syndrome. Access flow reduction markedly improved kidney graft function along with reversion of cardiomegaly, which was impressively demonstrated by follow-up chest-x-rays.

Conclusion

Arteriovenous fistulas should be monitored regularly after kidney transplantation to avoid congestive heart failure and other serious complications.
SPECTRAL INDICES OF VEGETATION TO CAATINGA OF THE AREA OF SEMI-ARID OF RIO GRANDE OF NORTE, BRAZIL
Authors: Bezerra Joel Medeiros , Vasconcelos Rochele Sheila , Moura Geber Barbosa de Albuquerque , Sobrinho José Espínola
Published: May 2013

The Caatinga is an exclusively Brazilian vegetation, predominantly in the Northeast, which covers 10% of the country, being an environment understudied, especially in view of remote sensing. Thus, the aim of this study is to analyze the spatial and temporal changes in vegetation of Caatinga, in the period from 2008 to 2011, through products and techniques of remote sensing data from the Landsat 5 TM, combined with weather data. The study was conducted in the area of the proposed National Park of Furna Feia located in the municipalities of Mossoró and Baraúna in the state of Rio Grande of Norte, situated in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil. We used three images from Landsat 5 TM satellite orbit point 63 and 216 on the following dates: 13 August 2008, 01 September 2009 and 06 August 2011. The image processing for calculating the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index values (NDVI) was performed with ERDAS Imagine 9.1 and ArcGIS 9.3. The junction of products from remote sensing with weather data allowed a coherent and reasoned, where they subsidize an understanding of physical phenomena relating to rainfall variability of the response timeline of Caatinga vegetation. There was an increase in NDVI values over the years studied, noting the direct relationship with the occurrence of rainfall.
USING THE METEOSAT-9 IMAGES TO THE DETECTION OF DEEP CONVECTIVE SYSTEMS IN BRAZIL
Authors: Barbosa Humberto Alves , Ertük Aydin Gürol , Silva Leandro Rodrigo Macedo da
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this article is to present a simple method of identification of deep convective clouds using water vapor (WV) and thermal infrared (IR) brightness temperature differences from the multispectral images of Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infra-Red Imager (SEVIRI) sensor. The use of this method is part of an international effort to calibrate the radiances of SEVIRI sensor for microphysical properties of deep convective systems. This approach was applied to the image from 08 September 2009 for the demonstration of its efficacy analysis. The results show that the difference values larger than –2º C for BT Differences (WV6.2 μm – WV7.3 μm) and + 50º C (IR3.9 μm –IR10.8 μm) were associated with areas of intense precipitation. The method can be easily implemented and effectively utilized in operational basis to monitor deep convective cloud clusters over Brazil.
GIS APPLIED TO THE STUDY OF TEMPORAL RECOVERY OF BURNED AREAS IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF PAI PEDRO LOCATED IN REGION NORTH OF THE STATE OF MINAS GERAIS
Authors: Nascimento Cristina Rodrigues
Published: May 2013

The northern region of Minas Gerais is considered a transition area between the biomes Caatinga and Savanna, with predominance of the Savanna and its variations. It is common to the occurrence of fires, which can be caused naturally or by anthropogenic actions, resulting in changes in the landscape. In this sense, the study aims to evaluate from time series of LANDSAT-5/TM and MODIS/TERRA images the process of natural recovery of vegetation after the identification of operational pixels corresponding to the burned areas. The results of the research are based on the response of the municipality test of Pai Pedro/MG. We can observe that was detected a hotspots pixel on the day 08/04/2008 through images MOD14A1, which validation was performed from the survey of burned areas conducted by INPE - National Institute of Space Research. From the identification of operational pixel of burned was evaluated the dynamics of recovery of the area through the vegetation index NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), generated by images MODIS/TERRA, product MOD13Q. The scars of burned analyzed, approximately 52% were detected. Despite this limitation, much of the area impacted was identified. The errors of omission were considered satisfactory, with a view to the technical limitations of spatial resolution of the sensors used.
SPACE TEMPORAL VARIABILITY NORMALIZED DIFFERENCE VEGETATION INDEXIN THE SEMIARID PERNAMBUCANO BASED ON IMAGE TM / LANDSAT 5
Authors: Silva Madson T.
Published: May 2013

Rainfall is one of climate elements that influence the spatial and temporal variation of plant cover in any region and, in particular, in the caatinga semiarid  Northeast. Before this, there was a need to examine relations of seasonal rainfall in the semiarid  region of the State of Pernambuco with classes of use and soil cover and changes in vegetation Index (NDVI) for Normalized Difference, using principal component analysis and remote sensing techniques, being these determinations the main goals of this work. Four images of the Thematic Mapper (TM) sensor, the satellite Landsat 5, dated 12/12/1991, 12/9/1996, 12/13/2003 and 11/27/2009, formed the experimental unit, whose variables were estimated using the algorithm Surface Energy Balance Algorithms for Land (SEBAL), in addition to the daily rainfall data of 1996 and 2009 and the series 1975 to 2010. The main results indicated that the amount and distribution of rain influenced on the surface temperature and the values of the indexes of reflection and NDVI, excelling by high recovery power plant, as the coverage that occurred in the year 1996, and expressed by the greatest value of NDVI. It is concluded that remote sensing techniques associated with those of main components were efficient to quantify the spatio-temporal variability of climate and vegetation index of the normalized difference of semiarid  conditions.
Assessment the Quality of Life in Karachi City through the Integration of Space and Spatial Technologies
Authors: Sheeba Afsar  , Syed Shahid Ali  , Syed Jamil Hassan Kazmi
Published: May 2013

This study is an attempt to map and measure the quality of life in the urban area of Karachi, Pakistan, by using Landsat-7 sensor, Enhanced Thematic Mapper (ETM+) combined with Census data through the state-of-the-art Geographic Information System (GIS). For this purpose, the physical environment of the city is determined by the variables of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), surface temperature and land cover/use. These are extracted from the satellite image data through various techniques of remote sensing. On the other hand, the socioeconomic variables were obtained from the 2000 Karachi District Census Reports, to represent the living environment of the city. Finally, the integration of the physical variables with the socioeconomic variables was conducted in a GIS framework using an aggregated Z Sum score approach, in order to derive the quality of life scores for the city of Karachi on the basis of Administrative-Spatial Units called Union Councils (UCs). The results effectively demonstrated the efficiency of the Index raster techniques to evaluate and map the quality of life over the study area. In addition, the GIS techniques also isolated the contributing variables that may be responsible for the spatial variability in the quality of life.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Rodriguez Luis A. , Schmittdiel Julie A. , Liu Liyan , Macdonald Brock A. , Balasubramanian Sreepriya , Chai Krisna P. , Seo Suk I. , Mukhtar Nizar , Levin Theodore R. , Saxena Varun
Published: July 2024

Importance

In the US, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been the most rapidly increasing cancer since 1980, and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is expected to soon become the leading cause of HCC.

Objective

To develop a prediction model for HCC incidence in a cohort of patients with MASLD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prognostic study was conducted among patients aged at least 18 years with MASLD, identified using diagnosis of MASLD using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) or International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) diagnosis codes; natural language processing of radiology imaging report text, which identified patients who had imaging evidence of MASLD but had not been formally diagnosed; or the Dallas Steatosis Index, a risk equation that identifies individuals likely to have MASLD with good precision. Patients were enrolled from Kaiser Permanente Northern California, an integrated health delivery system with more than 4.6 million members, with study entry between January 2009 and December 2018, and follow-up until HCC development, death, or study termination on September 30, 2021. Statistical analysis was performed during February 2023 and January 2024.

Exposure

Data were extracted from the electronic health record and included 18 routinely measured factors associated with MASLD.

Main Outcome and Measures

The cohort was split (70:30) into derivation and internal validation sets; extreme gradient boosting was used to model HCC incidence. HCC risk was divided into 3 categories, with the cumulative estimated probability of HCC 0.05% or less classified as low risk; 0.05% to 0.09%, medium risk; and 0.1% or greater, high risk.

Results

A total of 1 811 461 patients (median age [IQR] at baseline, 52 [41-63] years; 982 300 [54.2%] female) participated in the study. During a median (range) follow-up of 9.3 (5.8-12.4) years, 946 patients developed HCC, for an incidence rate of 0.065 per 1000 person-years. The model achieved an area under the curve of 0.899 (95% CI, 0.882-0.916) in the validation set. At the medium-risk threshold, the model had a sensitivity of 87.5%, specificity of 81.4%, and a number needed to screen of 406. At the high-risk threshold, the model had a sensitivity of 78.4%, a specificity of 90.1%, and a number needed to screen of 241.

Conclusions and Relevance

This prognostic study of more than 1.8 million patients with MASLD used electronic health record data to develop a prediction model to discriminate between individuals with and without incident HCC with good precision. This model could serve as a starting point to identify patients with MASLD who may need intervention and/or HCC surveillance.
Prevalence of Independence at Home–Qualifying Beneficiaries in Traditional Medicare, 2014-2021
Authors: Lally Tom , Johnson Emily , Deligiannidis Konstantinos E. , Taler George , Boling Peter , Yao Aaron , Kubisiak Joanna , Lee Angelina , Kinosian Bruce
Published: July 2024

Importance

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Innovation Center Independence at Home (IAH) demonstration, a test of home-based primary care operating in a value-based shared-savings payment model, ended December 2023 after a decade of consistently showing savings to Medicare. It is important to assess whether high-need, IAH-qualified beneficiaries continue to pose a growing challenge to traditional Medicare (TM) or if Medicare Advantage (MA), with programmatic features favorable to caring for this subset of the general Medicare population, can disproportionately provide such care.

Objective

To examine the size and share of IAH-qualified beneficiaries in TM and MA.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used all Medicare claims data and MA encounter data for 2014 and 2021. IAH qualifying criteria were applied to the TM populations enrolled in Parts A and B in 2014 and 2021, and to MA enrollees in 2021. Growth in the number of IAH-qualified TM beneficiaries from 2014 to 2021 was calculated, and the proportions and numbers of IAH-qualified enrollees in the total 2021 TM and MA populations were compared. Data were analyzed between April and June 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The number and share of beneficiaries meeting IAH criteria in TM and MA; the share of TM spending among IAH-qualified beneficiaries.

Results

Among 64 million Medicare beneficiaries in 2021, there were 30.55 million beneficiaries in TM with Parts A and B coverage, down from 33.82 million in 2014. The number of IAH-qualified beneficiaries in TM grew 51%, from 2.16 million to 3.27 million, while their proportionate share in TM grew 67% from 6.4% to 10.7% of TM between 2014 and 2021. IAH-qualified beneficiaries represented $155 billion in 2021 Medicare Parts A and B spending, 44% of all TM spending, up from 29% of total spending in 2014. In 2021, 2.15 million IAH-qualified beneficiaries represented 8.0% of Medicare Advantage enrollees. Combining TM and MA, 5.42 million IAH-qualified beneficiaries represented 9.3% of all Medicare beneficiaries, with 3.27 million (60.3%) being insured by TM.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of IAH-qualified Medicare beneficiaries, the share of IAH-qualified beneficiaries in TM grew between 2014 and 2021, with 60% of Medicare high-need beneficiaries accounting for 44% of TM spending. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services should continue to operate value-based programs like IAH that are specifically designed for these high-needs individuals.
Sodium Intake and Incident Atrial Fibrillation in Individuals With Vascular Disease
Authors: Johnson Linda S. , Mente Andrew , Joseph Philip , Conen David , Benz Alexander P. , McIntyre William F. , Drake Isabel , Engström Gunnar , Connolly Stuart J. , Yusuf Salim , Healey Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2024

Importance

Numerous prospective cohort studies have reported a J-shaped association of urinary sodium excretion with cardiovascular events and mortality.

Objective

To study the association between sodium intake and incident atrial fibrillation (AF).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study included participants in the Ongoing Telmisartan Alone and in Combination with Ramipril Global Endpoint Trial (ONTARGET) and Telmisartan Randomised Assessment Study in ACE Intolerant Subjects With Cardiovascular Disease (TRANSCEND) multicenter, randomized clinical trials comparing the effect of ramipril 10 mg daily with telmisartan 80 mg daily, or their combination (ONTARGET) or 80 mg telmisartan daily with placebo (TRANSCEND) for the outcome of death from cardiovascular causes, myocardial infarction, stroke, or hospitalization for heart failure. ONTARGET and TRANSCEND included 31 546 participants with vascular disease or high-risk diabetes, and this study excluded participants without a urine sample for sodium measurement, missing data for key covariates, a history of AF, or AF detected in the first year after enrollment. Analyses were performed in July 2023 to May 2024.

Exposure

Estimated sodium intake from a morning fasting urine sample (Kawasaki formula).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was incident AF. The association between estimated sodium intake and incident AF was modeled using multivariable adjusted Cox regression and cubic splines.

Results

A total of 27 391 participants (mean [SD] age, 66.3 [7.2] years; 19 310 [70.5%] male) were included. Mean (SD) estimated sodium intake was 4.8 (1.6) g/d. During a mean (SD) follow-up of 4.6 (1.0) years, 1562 participants (5.7%) had incident AF. After multivariable adjustment, a J-shaped association between sodium intake and AF risk was observed (P for nonlinearity = .03). Sodium intake of 8 g/d or greater (3% of participants) was associated with incident AF (hazard ratio, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.01-1.74) compared with sodium intake of 4 to 5.99 g/d. Cubic splines showed that sodium intake greater than 6 g/d (19% of participants) was associated with a 10% increased AF risk per additional 1-g/d sodium intake (hazard ratio, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.03-1.18), but with no further lowering of AF risk at lower levels of sodium intake.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of sodium intake and AF risk, there was a J-shaped association between sodium intakes and AF risk in patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Lowering sodium intake for AF prevention is best targeted at individuals who consume high sodium diets.
Geographic Trends in Ophthalmology Resident Physician Compensation and Cost-of-Living Expenses
Authors: Cohen Samuel A. , Sridhar Jayanth , Tseng Victoria L.
Published: July 2024

Importance

Given that resident physician financial strain has been associated with poor outcomes, objective metrics to forecast financial well-being may be useful to (1) applicants when evaluating ophthalmology residency programs and (2) programs when determining resident benefits.

Objectives

To determine and compare the relative value of ophthalmology resident stipends plus benefits when adjusted for cost-of-living expenses and to analyze program characteristics associated with greater resident net incomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cross-sectional study, the American Medical Association’s Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database was used to identify US Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education–accredited ophthalmology residency programs. Resident physician stipends and stipends plus benefits as well as residency program characteristics from the 2023-2024 academic year were noted for all eligible programs. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Living Wage Calculator’s required annual income (RAI) was selected as a surrogate to approximate cost-of-living expenses.

Exposure

Residency program characteristics, including affiliation, size, ranking, presence of housing benefit, and training year.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the annual stipend plus benefits income surplus (SPBIS) for each residency program, defined as the resident’s stipend plus benefits (SPB) minus the RAI for the county in which the residency program is located. Secondary outcomes included income surplus variation by program characteristics.

Results

Of 116 ophthalmology residency programs analyzed, 37 (31.9%) were located in the Northeast, 36 (31.0%) in the South, 29 (25.0%) in the Midwest, and 14 (12.1%) in the West. The mean (SD) postgraduate year 1 resident annual SPB was $65 397 ($8205), and the median (IQR) was $63 986 ($59 992-$69 698). After adjusting for the cost of living, the mean (SD) SPBIS was $27 459 ($5734) and the median (IQR) was $27 380 ($23 625-$31 796). Annual cost-of-living expenses varied by as much as $8628 (95% CI, $6310-$10 947) and SPBIS varied by as much as $6283 (95% CI, $3367-$9198) between regions. Resident SPB increased by a mean (SD) of 3.97% (0.98%) for each subsequent training year (range, 0.93%-7.26%). Annual SPBIS increased by a mean (SD) of 9.48% (3.60%) for each subsequent training year.

Conclusions and Relevance

After adjusting for living costs, intraregional and interregional differences in SPBIS among ophthalmology residents can vary by thousands of dollars, impacting residents’ financial security. Further discussion regarding compensation may lead to innovative strategies that aim to improve resident well-being and performance.
To find out how social media use affects teens, look at depression/anxiety
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2024

There are widespread concerns about the influence of social media on the mental health of adolescents, but the backdrop to this is that most research has not looked at clinical groups, but only the general population. For this study, research reviewed the literature to look at the association between social media use and internalizing symptoms — anxiety and depression. They found that clinical, as against community, samples show an increased risk of internalizing symptoms related to social media use, and that this is correlated with the amount of time spent on social media.
Multivariate Canadian Downscaled Climate Scenarios for CMIP6 (CanDCS‐M6)
Authors: Sobie Stephen R. , Ouali Dhouha , Curry Charles L. , Zwiers Francis W.
Published: July 2024

Canada‐wide, statistically downscaled simulations of global climate models from the Sixth Coupled Model Inter‐comparison Project (CMIP6) have been made available for 26 models using a new multivariate approach and an improved observational target dataset. These new downscaled scenarios comprise daily simulations of precipitation, maximum temperature, and minimum temperature at 1/12° resolution across Canada. Simulations from each of the 26 downscaled global climate models span a historical period (1950–2014), and three future Shared Socio‐economic Pathways (SSPs) representing low (SSP1 2.6), moderate (SSP2 4.5) and high (SSP5 8.5) future emissions from 2015 to 2100. Results from an evaluation of the multivariate downscaling method over Canada yield improved performance in replicating multivariate and compound climate indices compared to previously used univariate downscaling methods. This Multivariate Canadian Downscaled Climate Scenarios for CMIP6 (CanDCS‐M6) dataset is intended to facilitate climate impacts assessments, hydrologic modelling, and analysis tools for presenting climate projections.
Clonal competition assays identify fitness signatures in cancer progression and resistance in multiple myeloma
Authors: Haertle Larissa , Munawar Umair , Hernández Hipólito N. C. , Arroyo‐Barea Andres , Heckel Tobias , Cuenca Isabel , Martin Lucia , Höschle Carlotta , Müller Nicole , Vogt Cornelia , Bischler Thorsten , del Campo Paula L. , Han Seungbin , Buenache Natalia , Zhou Xiang , Bassermann Florian , Waldschmidt Johannes , Steinbrunn Torsten , Rasche Leo , Stühmer Thorsten , Martinez‐Lopez Joaquin , Martin Kortüm K. , Barrio Santiago
Published: July 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a genetically heterogeneous disease and the management of relapses is one of the biggest clinical challenges. TP53 alterations are established high‐risk markers and are included in the current disease staging criteria. KRAS is the most frequently mutated gene affecting around 20% of MM patients. Applying Clonal Competition Assays (CCA) by co‐culturing color‐labeled genetically modified cell models, we recently showed that mono‐ and biallelic alterations in TP53 transmit a fitness advantage to the cells. Here, we report a similar dynamic for two mutations in KRAS (G12A and A146T), providing a biological rationale for the high frequency of KRAS and TP53 alterations at MM relapse. Resistance mutations, on the other hand, did not endow MM cells with a general fitness advantage but rather presented a disadvantage compared to the wild‐type. CUL4B KO and IKZF1 A152T transmit resistance against immunomodulatory agents, PSMB5 A20T to proteasome inhibition. However, MM cells harboring such lesions only outcompete the culture in the presence of the respective drug. To better prevent the selection of clones with the potential of inducing relapse, these results argue in favor of treatment‐free breaks or a switch of the drug class given as maintenance therapy. In summary, the fitness benefit of TP53 and KRAS mutations was not treatment‐related, unlike patient‐derived drug resistance alterations that may only induce an advantage under treatment. CCAs are suitable models for the study of clonal evolution and competitive (dis)advantages conveyed by a specific genetic lesion of interest, and their dependence on external factors such as the treatment.
Mothers' reflections on the diagnosis and birth of their child with Down syndrome: Variability based on the timing of the diagnosis
Authors: Lukowski Angela F. , Bohanek Jennifer G.
Published: July 2024

Previous research has examined parents' reflections on their child's Down syndrome diagnosis based on whether the diagnosis was provided prenatally or after birth, revealing few significant differences; by comparison, few studies have examined parents' reflections on the birth of the child in relation to the timing of the diagnosis. This study was conducted to examine whether mothers differentially reported on and rated the diagnosis, birth, and most recent birthday of their child with DS based on when the diagnosis was provided. Forty‐four American mothers of children with DS discussed the birth of their child, when they learned of their child's DS diagnosis, and their child's most recent birthday with a researcher. Participants also completed online questionnaires on which they rated the events and indicated how they felt about the events at the time of their occurrence and at the time of the study. The results revealed that participants who received a prenatal diagnosis of DS for their child reflected differently—and seemingly more positively—on their child's birth relative to participants who received a postnatal diagnosis. These differences were evident when considering participant ratings, emotion language used when discussing the events, and feeling states characterizing how participants felt about the events at the time of their occurrence and at the time of the study. Given these group differences, medical professionals should carefully consider the conditions under which they provide mothers with diagnostic information and support services after a child is born.
Temporal trends in respiratory pathogens following the COVID‐19 pandemic and climate variables: A unicentric retrospective evaluation of 24 pathogens in a temperate subtropical region
Authors: Decker Sérgio Renato da Rosa , Wolf Jonas Michel , Pille Arthur , Freese Luana , Petek Helena , de Oliveira Rocha Bruna , Giannini Gabriela Luchiari Tumioto , Bristot Giovana , Andreis Tiago Finger , de Oliveira Francine Hehn , Hoffmann Emerson dos Santos , Kunde Luciana , Kern Marcelo , Schmitz Paulo , Maccari Juçara , Nedel Wagner , Zavascki Alexandre Prehn , Rosa Regis Goulart , Mutlaq Mohamed Parrini , Nasi Luiz Antônio
Published: July 2024

Temperature and humidity are studied in the context of seasonal infections in temperate and tropical zones, but the relationship between viral trends and climate variables in temperate subtropical zones remains underexplored. Our retrospective study analyzes respiratory pathogen incidence and its correlation with climate data in a subtropical zone. Retrospective observational study at Moinhos de Vento Hospital, South Brazil, aiming to assess seasonal trends in respiratory pathogens, correlating them with climate data. The study included patients of all ages from various healthcare settings, with data collected between April 2022 and July 2023. Biological samples were analyzed for 24 pathogens using polymerase chain reaction and hybridization techniques; demographic variables were also collected. The data was analyzed descriptively and graphically. Spearman tests and Poisson regression were used as correlation tests. Tests were clustered according to all pathogens, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), influenza viruses, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Between April 2022 and July 2023, 3329 tests showed a 71.6% positivity rate. Rhinovirus and RSV predominated, exhibiting seasonal patterns. Temperature was inversely correlated with the viruses, notably rhinovirus, but SARS‐CoV‐2 was positively correlated. Air humidity was positively correlated with all pathogens, RSV, rhinovirus, and atmospheric pressure with all pathogens and rhinovirus. Our results showed statistically significant correlations, with modest effect sizes. Our study did not evaluate causation effects. Despite the correlation between climate and respiratory pathogens, our work suggests additional factors influencing transmission dynamics. Our findings underscore the complex interplay between climate and respiratory infections in subtropical climates.
Reprocessable Polymer Networks Containing Sulfur‐Based, Percolated Dynamic Covalent Cross‐Links and Percolated or Non‐Percolated, Static Cross‐Links
Authors: Fenimore Logan M. , Bin Rusayyis Mohammed A. , Onsager Claire C. , Grayson Matthew A. , Torkelson John M.
Published: July 2024

One method to improve the properties of covalent adaptable networks (CANs) is to reinforce them with a fraction of permanent cross‐links without sacrificing their (re)processability. Here, a simple method to synthesize poly(n‐hexyl methacrylate) (PHMA) and poly(n‐lauryl methacrylate) (PLMA) networks containing static dialkyl disulfide cross‐links (utilizing bis(2‐methacryloyl)oxyethyl disulfide, or DSDMA, as a permanent cross‐linker) and dynamic dialkylamino sulfur‐sulfur cross‐links (utilizing BiTEMPS methacrylate as a dissociative dynamic covalent cross‐linker) is presented. The robustness and (re)processability of the CANs are demonstrated, including the full recovery of cross‐link density after recycling. The authors also investigate the effect of static cross‐link content on the stress relaxation responses of the CANs with and without percolated, static cross‐links. As PHMA and PLMA have very different activation energies of their respective cooperative segmental mobilities, it is shown that the dissociative CANs without percolated, static cross‐links have activation energies of stress relaxation that are dominated by the dissociation of BiTEMPS methacrylate cross‐links rather than by the cooperative relaxations of backbone segments, i.e., the alpha relaxation. In CANs with percolated, static cross‐links, the segmental relaxation of side chains, i.e., the beta relaxation, is critical in allowing for large‐scale stress relaxation and governs their activation energies of stress relaxation.
Energy-Saving Theory, Technology, and Double Carbon Target
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

Excessive carbon emissions lead to global warming and threaten human survival. On November 13, 2021, at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, all parties completed the implementation details of the Paris Agreement. The agreement is signed by 178 parties around the world. The long-term goal is to limit the increase in global average temperature to less than 2 degrees Celsius compared with the pre-industrial period, and strive to limit the increase in temperature to less than 1.5 degrees Celsius. So far, the “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality” (“double carbon”) strategy with the goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions has become the consensus of all mankind.
Energy Efficiency Optimization of Multi-Unit System
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

Multi-unit systems refer to those systems that are composed of more than one device to complete the same task.
Efficiency Optimization of Scraper Conveyors and Paper Machines
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

Multiple motors are used to drive long scraper conveyors or the wire section of paper machines, mainly to make long chains and long belts evenly stressed. This type of system does not have the problem of optimal switching of the number of drive motors. However, the system has the problem of how to distribute the load so that the system operates efficiently.
Speed Regulation Method in Energy Saving System
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

In the energy-saving control system, in many occasions, it is necessary to use the method of speed regulation to distribute the load of the equipment and to start and stop the equipment. These speed regulation methods are both mechanical and electrical. Due to the rapid development of high-voltage and high-current electronic devices, the application of frequency converter speed regulation of AC motors is becoming more and more common.
Simple Usage Method of Frequency Converter and Expanding Knowledge
Authors: Yao Fulai , Yao Yaming
Published: July 2024

Since AC motors do not have brushes, the vulnerable parts of DC motors, and are easy to maintain, coupled with the rapid decline in the price of frequency converters, AC speed regulation has developed rapidly.
Vascular galectins in tumor angiogenesis and cancer immunity
Authors: Thijssen Victor L. J. L.
Published: July 2024

Sustained tumor angiogenesis, i.e., the induction and maintenance of blood vessel growth by tumor cells, is one of the hallmarks of cancer. The vascularization of malignant tissues not only facilitates tumor growth and metastasis, but also contributes to immune evasion. Important players in all these processes are the endothelial cells which line the luminal side of blood vessel. In the tumor vasculature, these cells are actively involved in angiogenesis as well in the hampered recruitment of immune cells. This is the result of the abnormal tumor microenvironment which triggers both angiostimulatory and immune inhibitory gene expression profiles in endothelial cells. In recent years, it has become evident that galectins constitute a protein family that is expressed in the tumor endothelium. Moreover, several members of this glycan-binding protein family have been found to facilitate tumor angiogenesis and stimulate immune suppression. All this has identified galectins as potential therapeutic targets to simultaneously hamper tumor angiogenesis and alleviate immune suppression. The current review provides a brief introduction in the human galectin protein family. The current knowledge regarding the expression and regulation of galectins in endothelial cells is summarized. Furthermore, an overview of the role that endothelial galectins play in tumor angiogenesis and tumor immunomodulation is provided. Finally, some outstanding questions are discussed that should be addressed by future research efforts. This will help to fully understand the contribution of endothelial galectins to tumor progression and to exploit endothelial galectins for cancer therapy.
Do ceiling fans in rooms help to reduce or disperse the transmission of breathing aerosols?
Authors: Nazari Ata , Anvari Alireza , Chakheirlou Saeed Hazrati , Afnan Mohammadreza Abdoli
Published: July 2024

The main focus of this study is the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through virus-laden aerosols in enclosed spaces that utilize ceiling fans. The impact of an air circulation of ceiling fans on virus transmission is not clear. Computational modeling is employed to investigate aerosol transmission within an enclosed space that features ceiling fans. The aerosol concentration is modeled using a transport equation, and the probability of infection distribution across individuals’ breathing zones is assessed. The particle removal efficiency for two ceiling fan speeds of 10 and 35 rad/s is calculated to evaluate the effect of the ceiling fan’s shear flows on the spread of breathing aerosols. The simulated breathing aerosol considers various environmental situations, including thermal gradients, thermally active surface interaction, and deformability. The results indicate that increasing the ceiling fan speed within an enclosed space causes the aerosol cloud to circulate within the room rather than exiting it. Therefore, ceiling fans may not effectively suppress breathing aerosols and could increase transmissibility. Understanding aerosol behavior is essential in reducing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in enclosed spaces.
Molecular detection of sub-microscopic infections and Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein-2 and 3 gene deletions in pre-elimination settings of South Africa
Authors: Oyegoke Olukunle O. , Akoniyon Olusegun P. , Maharaj Leah , Adewumi Taiye S. , Malgwi Samson A. , Aderoju Samuel A. , Fatoba Abiodun J. , Adeleke Matthew A. , Maharaj Rajendra , Okpeku Moses
Published: July 2024

South Africa’s efforts toward eliminating malaria have positioned the country in the pre-elimination stage. Imported and sub-microscopic cases still contribute to the persistence of malaria in regions of low transmission as identified in this study where diagnostics is built largely on the use of Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT). However, the presence of Pfhrp2/3 gene deletion is known to interfere with the accuracy of diagnosis with the use of RDT. Malaria elimination and detection of Pfhrp2/3 gene deletion in the pre-elimination setting requires accurate molecular surveillance. With the core objective of this study being the determination of the presence sub-microscopic malaria cases and deleted Pfhrp2/3 gene markers, a total of 354 samples were collected from five districts of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. These samples were prepared for molecular analysis using primers and PCR conditions specific for amplification of 18S rRNA and msp-1gene. Positive amplicons were analysed for the presence of Pfhrp2/3 and flanking genes, along with Sanger sequencing and phylogenetic studies. Out of 354 samples collected 339 were tested negative with PfHRP2 based RDTs. Of these Pfhrp2 and Pfhrp3 gene deletions were confirmed in 94.7% (18/19) and 100% (19/19) respectively. High migration rate (75%) among the study participants was noted and phylogenetic analysis of sequenced isolates showed close evolutionary relatedness with India, United Kingdom, Iran, and Myanmar and China isolates. Molecular-based test is recommended as an essential surveillance tool for malaria management programs as the target focuses on elimination.
Understanding global perspectives for the acceptance of community sanitation welfare schemes through a localised qualitative survey in Kho Nagorian, Jaipur, India
Authors: Gupta Vinayak , Gonzales Hazel B. , Hungwe Douglas , Kanokwan Yamsomphong , Takahashi Fumitake
Published: July 2024

Community sanitation is a fundamental human right and need. Every year, as per the World Bank, total cost of providing sanitation services is estimated at around 114 billion USD per year. In India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA), a public welfare scheme (PWS), is aimed at addressing community sanitation problems. Despite the successful implementation of SBA, local communities still practise open defaecation. To deduce the behavioural patterns governing communal toilet use, interviews were conducted with the local communities in the Kho Nagorian area of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. This qualitative survey examined attitudes towards the construction of a toilet, awareness towards the SBA scheme, and the willingness to use excreta-based pit humus. The study then discusses the factors that increase the local community’s willingness to use these toilets. Results show that open defaecation is still prevalent in society. One way to foster the adoption of toilets is that the construction materials should mainly consist of local materials. As a recourse, places of worship could be used to influence people’s perception of hygiene. In addition, community toilets should be cleaned often as well. PWS should not be made accessible at no cost to prevent a sense of entitlement among the people. A small sum should be charged to increase social responsibility towards the PWS. Another way to curb open defaecation is to tap into the sense of entitlement by making effective use of social campaign programs. Further, cross-table analysis revealed that the locals were inclined to use a toilet if they have invested in it. Advertisements were found to be ineffective, and proposals were made to make them effective. These findings aid in understanding public perceptions and can guide the development of public policies. The findings also assist in making tax distribution decisions that reflect public concerns, attitudes, and values.
Relevance of instrumented gait analysis in the prediction of the rebound phenomenon after guided growth intervention
Authors: Stief Felix , Holder Jana , Braun Sebastian , Brenneis Marco , van Drongelen Stefan , Byrnes S. Kimberly , Layher Frank , Dussa Chakravarthy U. , Meurer Andrea , Böhm Harald
Published: July 2024

Predictors of rebound after correction of coronal plane deformities using temporary hemiepiphysiodesis (TH) are not well defined. The following research questions were tested: (1) Is the dynamic knee joint load useful to improve rebound prediction accuracy? (2) Does a large initial deformity play a critical role in rebound development? (3) Are BMI and a young age risk factors for rebound? Fifty children and adolescents with idiopathic knee valgus malalignment were included. A deviation of the mechanical femorotibial angle (MFA) of ≥ 3° into valgus between explantation and the one-year follow-up period was chosen to classify a rebound. A rebound was detected in 22 of the 50 patients (44%). Two predictors of rebound were identified: 1. reduced peak lateral knee joint contact force in the first half of the stance phase at the time of explantation (72.7% prediction); 2. minor initial deformity according to the MFA (70.5% prediction). The best prediction (75%) was obtained by including both parameters in the binary logistic regression method. A TH should not be advised in patients with a minor initial deformity of the leg axis. Dynamic knee joint loading using gait analysis and musculoskeletal modeling can be used to determine the optimum time to remove the plates.