bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The anticancer effect of statins in obese esophageal cancer patients undergoing esophagectomy
Authors: Abdelfatah Eihab , Kukar Moshim , Mukherjee Sarbajit , Groman Adrienne , Yendamuri Sai
Published: April 2022

Background

In addition to treating hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis, statins have demonstrated anti‐inflammatory and antitumor activity in various cancers. We evaluate this effect in esophageal cancer patients undergoing esophagectomy.

Methods

Esophageal cancer patients undergoing esophagectomy at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center between March 2007 and December 2015 were included. Association between presurgery statin use and relevant variables with overall survival (OS), disease‐specific survival (DSS), and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) was analyzed using Cox hazards. Survival analyses were independently performed for body mass index (BMI)‐based subgroups.

Results

There was no significant association between statin use and outcomes overall. However, in subgroup analysis, there was significant association between statin use and outcomes in patients with BMI ≥ 30. Multivariable analysis in obese patients demonstrated the association of statins with improved OS (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.46, p = 0.025), DSS (HR: 0.39, p = 0.015), and RFS (HR: 0.38, p = 0.022). The only other variable significantly associated with all three outcome measures was stage.

Conclusions

Statin use is associated with improved OS, DSS, and RFS of obese patients in resected esophageal cancer. BMI could be investigated as a biomarker for adjunctive statin use in future studies.
Side‐to‐end reanastomosis after low‐anterior resection (STELAR): Outcomes, feasibility, and description of procedure performed by a gynecologic oncology service
Authors: Khetan Varun U. , Muderspach Laila I. , Miller Heather A. , Licon Ernesto , Adams Crystal L. , Brunette Laurie L. , Pham Huyen Q. , Yessaian Annie A. , Roman Lynda D. , Matsuo Koji , Ciccone Marcia A.
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives

Low anterior rectosigmoid resection for a gynecologic disease is usually performed in concert with other procedures and can result in significant morbidity should anastomotic complication occur. This study examined surgical outcomes of side‐to‐end reanastomosis after low anterior resection (STELAR) performed by gynecologic oncology service.

Methods

This is a case series examining consecutive patients who underwent STELAR for gynecologic indications by a single gynecologic oncology group from 2009 to 2018. Prospectively collected institutional surgical database was searched for STELAR, and standard descriptive statistics were used to describe intraoperative and postoperative complications specific to reanastomosis.

Results

A total of 69 women underwent STELAR, with median age and body mass index of 54 years and 24 kg/m2, respectively. 63.8% of patients had ovarian cancer and 84.4% had stage III–IV disease. The median estimated blood loss was 875 ml. Four (5.8%) women underwent protective loop colostomy at the time of STELAR. Postoperatively, there was 1 (1.4%) case of abscess formation within 30 days and 1 (1.4%) case of anastomotic leak 5 weeks after STELAR that required reoperation and diversion. No cases of fistula were clinically identified.

Conclusion

Side‐to‐end reanastomosis may be a safe and feasible procedure to accomplish low rectosigmoid anastomosis in women with gynecologic disease.
Hepatorenal Index by B‐Mode Ratio Versus Imaging and Fatty Liver Index to Diagnose Steatosis in Alcohol‐Related and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Kjaergaard Maria , Lindvig Katrine Prier , Hansen Camilla Dalby , Detlefsen Sönke , Krag Aleksander , Thiele Maja
Published: April 2022

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the hepatorenal index by B‐mode ratio to diagnose hepatic steatosis, compared to ultrasound steatosis score, controlled attenuation parameter, and the fatty liver index using histology as the gold standard.

Methods

We prospectively included participants with alcohol‐related or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease for same‐day noninvasive investigations and liver biopsy.

Results

We included 137 participants, 72% male, median age 60 years (53–65) and body mass index 32 kg/m2 (28–38). Eighty percent had steatosis (S0/S1/S2/S3 = 20/37/24/19%). B‐mode ratio had moderate diagnostic accuracy for any steatosis (≥S1, area under the receiver operating characteristics curve [AUROC] = 0.79; 95% confidence interval 0.70–0.88), significant steatosis (≥S2, AUROC = 0.76; 0.66–0.85), and severe steatosis (=S3, AUROC = 0.74; 0.62–0.86), independent of disease etiology. The cutoff values to rule‐out and rule‐in any steatosis were 1.09 and 1.45. While B‐mode ratio and controlled attenuation parameter correlated poorly, their diagnostic accuracies were comparable to each other and to ultrasound steatosis scoring. Fatty liver index did not differ from B‐mode ratio in detecting any steatosis but had poor accuracy to detect higher steatosis grades. B‐mode ratio measurements failed in 12% of patients, compared to 1% for ultrasound steatosis scoring and 2% for controlled attenuation parameter.

Conclusion

The hepatorenal index by B‐mode ratio diagnose steatosis with moderate accuracy in patients with alcohol‐related or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, comparable to B‐mode ultrasound steatosis scoring and controlled attenuation parameter. However, its clinical use is limited by a high failure rate.
Kinetics and mechanism of antioxidant action of polysubstituted tetrahydroquinolines in liquid‐phase oxidation reactions of organic compounds by oxygen
Authors: Sharipova Gulnaz M. , Safarova Irina V. , Khairullina Veronika R. , Gerchikov Anatoly Ya , Zimin Yuri S. , Savchenko Rimma G. , Limantseva Regina M.
Published: April 2022

The antioxidant properties of a series of biologically active polysubstituted tetrahydroquinolines containing chromanyl fragments have been experimentally studied in the liquid phase. Probed was the ability of the substrates to kinetically retard the initiator‐induced radical chain oxidation by O2 of the model compounds 1,4‐dioxane or isopropyl alcohol. The oxidation reactions were monitored at 348 K using a manometric technique, measuring under various initial conditions the time‐dependent concentration of oxygen in the gas phase above a reaction mixture containing the radical‐chain initiator azobisisobutylnitrile and the substrates under study. When tetrahydroquinolines were present, the kinetic curves of oxygen absorption exhibited characteristic induction periods (τ) wherein the reaction rate is immeasurably small. The dependence of τ on the initial concentration of the introduced antioxidants has been determined and the results interpreted within the framework of a classical scheme describing the radical‐chain oxidation of organic compounds in the presence of an inhibitor. Values of the stoichiometric coefficient of inhibition, f, which is related to the number of chain propagating radicals destroyed by each antioxidant molecule, is >>2 for all the studied antioxidants. Consistent with the existing literature, it is inferred that the original antioxidant molecule is regenerated from its radical inhibition product during reaction. Previous studies suggest that oxyperoxy radicals play an important role in the inhibitor regeneration process due to their ability to act either as an oxidizer (in chain propagation) or as a reducing agent (in regeneration of the inhibitor from its corresponding radical). In the presently studied systems containing 1,4‐dioxane, it is argued that the source of oxyperoxy radicals is 2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐dioxane. A reaction mechanism that includes the stages of inhibitor regeneration and that is quantitatively consistent with the present results has been developed. It is suggested that the high antioxidant capacity of the tetrahydroquinoline derivatives is due to their large chain breaking rate constants in conjunction with regeneration of the inhibitor during chain termination processes. The relationship of the studied chemical structures and their antioxidant capacity is discussed.
The prevalence and risk factors for perceived voice disorders in public school teachers
Authors: Feng Shuxiu , Weng Chingfeng , Cai Shaofang , Yang Zijiang , Wu Meina , Kang Ning
Published: April 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and risk factors in public kindergarten and elementary school teachers in the Jimei district in Xiamen. We took particular interest in the relationship between work‐related factors and voice disorders.

Study Design

A cross‐sectional investigation; a General Investigation.

Methods

This study was conducted from September 14 to 18, 2020 at public kindergarten and elementary schools in Xiamen, China. A total of 3140 teachers were separated into a perceived voice disorder group (PVD) and no perceived voice disorder group (NPVD) according to the Voice Handicap Index. The chi‐square test was applied to explore the differences between the PVD and NPVD groups. The univariate logistic regression models were used to identify the risk factors in terms of unadjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. Stepwise logistic regression was then used to ascertain independent determinants.

Results

We found that the prevalence of PVD was 47.52%. The results showed that risk factors of PVD included being female (OR = 1.574), middle‐rank technical title and higher (OR = 2.199), continuous lecturing for more than 3 classes (OR = 3.034), lectured more than 10 classes a week (OR = 1.436) and taught art or physical education (OR = 1.742).

Conclusions

Teachers' work‐related characteristics were associated with PVD. This proves that a preventive voice care program for teachers, administered by the school or education bureau, is urgent. This could include components such as the reasonable arrangement of timetables and recruitment of a sufficient number of kindergarten and elementary school teachers.

Level of evidence: Case‐series
FUELING LEADERS TO LEAD: FIVE WAYS TO REFILL AT THE FILLING STATION
Authors: McNeal Delatorro
Published: April 2022

The author writes about the strong motivation that can come for leaders if they slow down, reassess where they are going and how they plan on getting there, and taking care of their physical and mental health. He uses the metaphor of The Filling Station to refill rather than to stubbornly keep pushing, which can lead to burnout. In his words, there are five key areas revolving around these thoughts: Fill up on your ability to Shift! Fill up on your need to live! Fill up on your ability to repurpose! Fill up on your right to eliminate! Fill up on your attitude of gratitude! Within point 3 he offers that “Leaders will find purpose in everything, even if the purpose is merely a lesson.” Leaders should not try to tough it out, or proceed when they are metaphorically running on empty. The author states that “You are not obligated to pretend that you are ok when you are not. You owe it to yourself to get refilled. Creation is waiting for you and there are people who need to know that it’s ok to take care of yourself. This does not make you weak; it makes you strong, necessary, and unstoppable.”
Insights into the Sustainable Development of Lignin‐Based Textiles for Functional Applications
Authors: Raman Akhila , Sankar Avani , S. D. Abhirami , Anilkumar Abhirami , Saritha Appukuttan
Published: April 2022

The modification of textiles by the incorporation of nanofillers to incorporate multifunctional properties is emerging as an active area of research. The use of lignin, a biowaste material in textiles to create properties like UV blocking, flame retardancy, antimicrobial properties, etc. paves the way toward creating sustainable textiles with an additional advantage of utilizing a biowaste into a value‐added product. The futuristic tailoring of lignin chemistry through functionalization is an entrancing field of research. It incorporates the inherent properties of lignin with the extraneous characteristics of attached matrix polymers. Such modifications aid to enhance the miscibility of lignin with various polymeric matrices, which help to magnify the capabilities of lignin/polymer composites. The review throws light on how lignin can be explored to tailor the properties of textiles in an effective manner. The UV blocking efficiency, flame retardancy as well as antimicrobial properties imparted to textiles by the presence of lignin are discussed in detail. An outlook on the durability and comfort of lignin incorporated textiles is also discussed. An effort is also taken to compare lignin with other commonly used fillers in textile materials. All the available data on lignin‐based textiles are consolidated in a comprehensive manner in this review.
Mass spectrometry‐based “omics” technologies for the study of gestational diabetes and the discovery of new biomarkers
Authors: Roverso Marco , Dogra Raghav , Visentin Silvia , Pettenuzzo Silvia , Cappellin Luca , Pastore Paolo , Bogialli Sara
Published: April 2022

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is one of the most common complications occurring during pregnancy. Diagnosis is performed by oral glucose tolerance test, but harmonized testing methods and thresholds are still lacking worldwide. Short‐term and long‐term effects include obesity, type 2 diabetes, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The identification and validation of sensitidve, selective, and robust biomarkers for early diagnosis during the first trimester of pregnancy are required, as well as for the prediction of possible adverse outcomes after birth. Mass spectrometry (MS)‐based omics technologies are nowadays the method of choice to characterize various pathologies at a molecular level. Proteomics and metabolomics of GDM were widely investigated in the last 10 years, and various proteins and metabolites were proposed as possible biomarkers. Metallomics of GDM was also reported, but studies are limited in number. The present review focuses on the description of the different analytical methods and MS‐based instrumental platforms applied to GDM‐related omics studies. Preparation procedures for various biological specimens are described and results are briefly summarized. Generally, only preliminary findings are reported by current studies and further efforts are required to determine definitive GDM biomarkers.
Molecular and neurological features of MELAS syndrome in paediatric patients: A case series and review of the literature
Authors: Seed Lydia M. , Dean Andrew , Krishnakumar Deepa , Phyu Poe , Horvath Rita , Harijan Pooja Devi
Published: April 2022

Background

Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke‐like episodes (MELAS) syndrome is one of the most well‐known mitochondrial diseases, with most cases attributed to m.3243A>G. MELAS syndrome patients typically present in the first two decades of life with a broad, multi‐systemic phenotype that predominantly features neurological manifestations––stroke‐like episodes. However, marked phenotypic variability has been observed among paediatric patients, creating a clinical challenge and delaying diagnoses.

Methods

A literature review of paediatric MELAS syndrome patients and a retrospective analysis in a UK tertiary paediatric neurology centre were performed.

Results

Three children were included in this case series. All patients presented with seizures and had MRI changes not confined to a single vascular territory. Blood heteroplasmy varied considerably, and one patient required a muscle biopsy. Based on a literature review of 114 patients, the mean age of presentation is 8.1 years and seizures are the most prevalent manifestation of stroke‐like episodes. Heteroplasmy is higher in a tissue other than blood in most cases.

Conclusion

The threshold for investigating MELAS syndrome in children with suspicious neurological symptoms should be low. If blood m.3243A>G analysis is negative, yet clinical suspicion remains high, invasive testing or further interrogation of the mitochondrial genome should be considered.
Exponential stabilization of the transmission wave equation with dynamical boundary conditions and a delay term
Authors: Guo Zhiling , Chai Shugen
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we consider stabilization of transmission of the wave equation with dynamical boundary conditions that include a delay term acts on the boundary. By introducing suitable energy function, we prove under some assumptions that the closed‐loop system is exponentially stable. In addition, we also consider the situation where the above system is controlled by distributed feedback near the transmission boundary and can also obtain exponential stability estimates with fewer assumptions.
Plum Prevents Intestinal and Hepatic Inflammation in the Acute and Chronic Models of Dextran Sulfate Sodium‐Induced Mouse Colitis
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Jin , Eom Jung‐Young , Choi Sang‐Hun , Seo Hyun‐Ju , Kwun In‐Sook , Chun Ik‐Jo , Sung Jeehye , Lim Jae‐Hwan , Kim Jihoon , Song Byoung‐Joon , Lee Chan‐Hyeong , Kim Do‐Kyun , Baek Moon‐Chang , Cho Young‐Eun
Published: April 2022

Scope

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC), is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease of the digestive tract and increases the risk of colon cancer.

Method and Results

This study evaluates the effects of dietary intervention with freeze‐dried plum (FDP), a natural antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory fruit with no toxicity on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced acute and chronic experimental colitis in a mouse model and studies the molecular mechanisms of protection through the gut–liver axis. The results show that FDP decreases the levels of inflammatory mediators, which is a nitrative stress biomarker in both acute and chronic models. FDP markedly reduces DSS‐induced injury to the colonic epithelium in both acute and chronic models. In addition, FDP significantly decreases the levels of pro‐oxidant markers such as CYP2E1, iNOS, and nitrated proteins (detected by anti‐3‐NT antibody) in DSS‐induced acute and chronic colonic injury models. Furthermore, FDP markedly reduces markers of liver injury such as serum ALT/AST, antioxidant markers, and inflammatory mediators in DSS‐induced acute and chronic colonic injury.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that the FDP exhibits a protective effect on DSS‐induced acute and chronic colonic and liver injury through the gut–liver axis via antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties.
Cannabinoids in rheumatology: Friend, foe or a bystander?
Authors: Jain Nibha , Moorthy Arumugam
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Cannabinoids have gained popularity recently with special emphasis on their use for chronic pain. Although NICE guidelines advise against their usage for management of chronic pain, almost all rheumatologists encounter a few patients in their daily practice who either use them or are curious about them.

We reviewed the mechanism of action of cannabinoids, current knowledge about their role in rheumatology and potential drug interactions with common drugs used in Rheumatology.

We attempted to answer the question “If cannabinoids are friend, foe or just a mere bystander?”

Methods

We adhered to a search strategy for writing narrative reviews as per available guidelines. We searched PubMed with the search terms “Cannabinoids”, “Rheumatology” and “Chronic pain” for published articles and retrieved 613 articles. The abstracts and titles of these articles were screened to identify relevant studies focusing on mechanism of actions, adverse effects and drug interactions. We also availed the services of a musculoskeletal librarian.

Results

Despite the NHS guidelines against the usage of cannabinoids and associated significant stigma, cannabinoids are increasingly used for the management of pain in rheumatology without prescription. Cannabinoids act through two major receptors CB1 and CB2, which are important modulators of the stress response with potential analgesic effects. Their role in various rheumatological diseases including Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis and Fibromyalgia have been explored with some benefits. However, in addition to the adverse effects, cannabinoids also have some potential interactions with common drugs used in rheumatology, which many users are unaware of.

Conclusion

While the current studies and patient reported outcomes suggest cannabinoids to be a “friend” of rheumatology, their adverse events and drug interactions prove to be a “Foe”. We were unable to arrive at a definite answer for our question posed, however on the balance of probabilities we can conclude cannabinoids to be a “foe”. Under these circumstances, a disease and drug focussed research is need of the hour to answer the unresolved question.
Body composition and myokines in a cohort of patients with Becker muscular dystrophy
Authors: Barp Andrea , Carraro Elena , Goggi Giovanni , Lizio Andrea , Zanolini Alice , Messina Carmelo , Perego Silvia , Verdelli Chiara , Lombardi Giovanni , Sansone Valeria Ada , Corbetta Sabrina
Published: April 2022

Introduction/Aims

Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) is an X‐linked disease leading to muscle wasting and weakness. The decrease in lean body mass (LBM) in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, has shown correlation with loss of muscle function and bone density (BD). Myokines (including irisin) are hormones secreted by skeletal muscle that allow crosstalk between muscle and bone. The present study analyzed body composition and circulating myokine levels in a cohort of BMD patients; moreover, the association between dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) parameters, functional motor assessments, and myokine levels was investigated.

Methods

All patients underwent DXA, blood samples for myokine assays, and functional motor assessments. A group of healthy controls (HCs) was also included.

Results

Thirty BMD patients, median age at evaluation 36.0 y [26.0–41.0], were included. Twenty‐nine patients underwent whole‐body DXA. Median value of total body Z‐score was −0.70. The prevalence of low skeletal muscle mass defined as appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMMI) < 7.59 kg/m2 was 83%. Irisin levels were significantly lower in BMD compared to HCs (p = .03). All DXA parameters showed significant correlation with the functional motor assessments, in particular the h2‐standardized lean mass lower limb index (p = .0006); h2‐standardized total fat mass showed negative correlations with North Star Ambulatory Assessment and 6 min walk test (p = .03).

Discussion

DXA is a useful tool to evaluate body composition in BMD patients; the decrease in BD and LBM is associated with a reduction of motor function in BMD.
Developmental trajectory of magnetic susceptibility in the healthy rhesus macaque brain
Authors: Wu Jing , Peng Siyue , Zhang Yuhua , Pan Boyang , Chen Honghua , Hu Xintian , Gong Nan‐Jie
Published: April 2022

Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) is used to quantify iron deposition in non‐human primates in our study. Although QSM has many applications in detecting iron deposits in the human brain, including the distribution of iron deposits in specific brain regions, the change of iron deposition with aging, and the comparison of iron deposits between diseased groups and healthy controls, few studies have applied QSM to non‐human primates, while most animal brain experiments focus on biochemical and anatomical results instead of non‐invasive experiments. Additionally, brain imaging in children's research is difficult, but can be substituted using young rhesus monkeys, which are very similar to humans, as research animals. Therefore, understanding the relationship between iron deposition and age in rhesus macaques' brains can offer insights into both the developmental trajectory of magnetic susceptibility in the animal model and the correlated evidence in children's research. Twenty‐three healthy rhesus macaque monkeys (23 ± 7.85 years, range 2–29 years) were included in this research. Seven regions of interest (ROIs—globus pallidus, substantia nigra, dentate nucleus, caudate nucleus, putamen, thalamus, red nucleus) have been analyzed in terms of QSM and R2* (apparent relaxation rate). Susceptibility in most ROIs correlated significantly with the growth of age, similarly to the results for R2*, but showed different trends in the thalamus and red nucleus, which may be caused by the different sensitivities of myelination and iron deposition in R2* and QSM analysis. By assessing the correlation between iron content and age in healthy rhesus macaques' brains using QSM, we provide a piece of pilot information on normality for advanced animal disease models. Meanwhile, this study also could serve as the normative basis for further clinical studies using QSM for iron content quantification. Due to the comparison of the susceptibility on the same experimental objects, this research can also provide practical support for future research on characteristics for QSM and R2*.
Influence of consolidating process on the properties of composites from thermosetting carbon fiber reinforced tapes
Authors: Stadler Hannes , Kiss Peter , Stadlbauer Wolfgang , Plank Bernhard , Burgstaller Christoph
Published: April 2022

Carbon fiber reinforced tapes are a feasible option to tailor material properties of composite structures and to reduce waste due to cut‐offs. But composite properties are not only influenced by the selected material, but also via the applied curing process. The aim of this experimental investigation is a comparison of the mechanical properties of thermosetting carbon fiber reinforced tapes, which are cured in different curing processes. In the composites industry the autoclave curing process is considered to be the highest quality process for handling preimpregnated semifinished‐products, so called prepregs. Alongside the autoclave process there are several alternative routes, named “out‐of‐autoclave”–processes, which can also be chosen for prepreg curing. One option is prepreg hot‐pressing, a process which is intended for large part quantities and easy process control. The development of fast curing thermosetting resin systems with the possibility of complete curing in the range of minutes introduced snap‐cure prepregs, recommended to be used solely in hot presses. For this reason this type of prepreg, in form of unidirectional tapes, was used for the following experiments. Two additional curing processes were investigated for process‐comparison, namely oven‐curing and in‐situ consolidation. The placement of the prepreg tapes for the laminate build‐up was done by an automated fiber placement unit followed by the curing processes as mentioned before. During the characterization of the material properties the general accepted statement of the excellent autoclave laminate quality could be confirmed. Strengths of around 930 MPa and even above were achieved with three‐point coupon bending tests for laminates cured in the autoclave. The fiber volume fraction was slightly above 58% and the laminate porosity was 0.5%. In comparison oven cured and hot pressed laminates strength values were lower at around 675–775 MPa. Hot pressed laminate porosity content was about 1.3% and the fiber volume fraction of these laminates was 52%. Oven cured laminates showed a higher porosity content above 4% and a fiber volume fraction of 51%. The new approach for prepreg curing, the in‐situ consolidation process provided fairly good results which were comparable to those of the oven cured laminates. In this process the unidirectional prepreg tape is directly cured at the surface of a heatable table during automated fiber placement without subsequent curing under a vacuum bag. The positive testing outcome of in‐situ consolidated laminates shows a big potential for future research and development of this process.
Experimental and numerical investigation on the mechanical and electrical properties of multiwalled carbon nanotube/waterborne polyurethane coated 3D printing carbon fiber reinforced composites
Authors: Li Lijun , Liu Wenyao , Hu Tao , Sun Lingyu
Published: April 2022

Mechanical–electrical properties and failure behavior of 3D printed carbon fiber reinforced composites with multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/waterborne polyurethane (WPU) conductive coating were studied to develop a performance monitoring method for composites. The results indicated that the coating materials could obtain good mechanical–electrical properties and sensitivity factor. Scanning electron microscopy images show that multiple conductive channels exist in the coating. The coating is well bonded to the composites. In order to obtain more details, mechanical–electrical coupling simulation was conducted. The experiment and simulation are in good agreement. The correlation between the strain of composite part and the electrical resistance change rate of the coating is validated. Furthermore, the multi‐scale observations reveal the failure mechanism including composite‐coating debonding, brittle fracture of polyamide matrix, fiber breakage, and pull‐out in the composite part, as well as ductile fracture of WPU matrix and MWCNT pull‐out in the coating part. This study can provide some insights for structural health monitoring of composites.
Information is power: The experiences, attitudes and needs of individuals who chose to have prenatal genomic sequencing for fetal anomalies
Authors: Kernie Catherine G. , Wynn Julia , Rosenbaum Allison , de Voest Jessica , Galloway Stephanie , Giordano Jessica , Stover Samantha , Westerfield Lauren , Gilmore Kelly , Wapner Ronald J. , Van den Veyver Ignatia B. , Vora Neeta L. , Clifton Rebecca G. , Caughey Aaron B. , Chung Wendy K.
Published: April 2022

Objective

This study sought to evaluate the experiences of individuals who chose to participate in a study and receive prenatal genomic sequencing (pGS) for fetuses with congenital structural anomalies.

Method

Individuals who received research results of prenatal sequencing were invited to participate in semi‐structured interviews about their experiences. A constructivist grounded theory approach was used to code and analyze interviews.

Results

Thirty‐three participants from 27 pregnancies were interviewed. Participants were motivated to enroll in the study to find out more about their fetus' condition and prepare for the future. The waiting period was a time of significant anxiety for participants. Most participants felt relief and closure upon receiving results, regardless of the category of result, and had a clear understanding of the implications of the results.

Conclusion

Participants' experiences with pGS were often intertwined with the experience of having a fetus with an abnormality. Participants were satisfied with the decision to participate in research and the support they received from the healthcare team, although waiting for results was associated with anxiety. The healthcare team plays an integral role in setting expectations and validating feelings of anxiety, fear and uncertainty.
Factors that impact on women's decision‐making around prenatal genomic tests: An international discrete choice survey
Authors: Buchanan James , Hill Melissa , Vass Caroline M. , Hammond Jennifer , Riedijk Sam , Klapwijk Jasmijn E. , Harding Eleanor , Lou Stina , Vogel Ida , Hui Lisa , Ingvoldstad‐Malmgren Charlotta , Soller Maria Johansson , Ormond Kelly E. , Choolani Mahesh , Zheng Qian , Chitty Lyn S. , Lewis Celine
Published: April 2022

Objective

We conducted a survey‐based discrete‐choice experiment (DCE) to understand the test features that drive women's preferences for prenatal genomic testing, and explore variation across countries.

Methods

Five test attributes were identified as being important for decision‐making through a literature review, qualitative interviews and quantitative scoring exercise. Twelve scenarios were constructed in which respondents choose between two invasive tests or no test. Women from eight countries who delivered a baby in the previous 24 months completed a DCE presenting these scenarios. Choices were modeled using conditional logit regression analysis.

Results

Surveys from 1239 women (Australia: n = 178; China: n = 179; Denmark: n = 88; Netherlands: n = 177; Singapore: n = 90; Sweden: n = 178; UK: n = 174; USA: n = 175) were analyzed. The key attribute affecting preferences was a test with the highest diagnostic yield (p < 0.01). Women preferred tests with short turnaround times (p < 0.01), and tests reporting variants of uncertain significance (VUS; p < 0.01) and secondary findings (SFs; p < 0.01). Several country‐specific differences were identified, including time to get a result, who explains the result, and the return of VUS and SFs.

Conclusion

Most women want maximum information from prenatal genomic tests, but our findings highlight country‐based differences. Global consensus on how to return uncertain results is not necessarily realistic or desirable.
Greek teachers' resilience levels during the COVID‐19 pandemic lockdown and its association with attitudes towards emergency remote teaching and perceived stress
Authors: Papazis Filippos , Avramidis Elias , Bacopoulou Flora
Published: April 2022

The mandatory closure of schools due to the Covid‐19 pandemic affected the mental health, and, by extension, the personal and professional life of teachers. This study explored their level of resilience during the pandemic and its association with attitudes towards emergency remote teaching and perceived stress. Data were collected through the administration of three self‐report instruments: (a) the “Teachers' Professional Attitudes and Behaviors Scale”, (b) the “Teachers' Resilience Scale”, and (c) the “Perceived Stress Scale”. The sample consisted of 1415 general teachers from central Greece. Teachers were found to possess neutral attitudes towards emergency remote teaching, moderate levels of resilience, and experienced slightly increased levels of stress. The examined constructs were largely influenced by some of the teachers' demographic and professional characteristics. Teachers' perceptions of resilience predicted their attitudes to emergency remote teaching and stress levels during the pandemic. The study has reaffirmed the importance of holding sufficient levels of resilience to cope with adverse circumstances and has offered clear directions about which groups of teachers are in most need for counselling and professional support so that their resilience is strengthened.
A single‐center PICU present status survey of pediatric sepsis‐related acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Zhou Liang , Li Shaojun , Tang Tian , Yuan Xiu , Tan Liping
Published: April 2022

Background

To describe the incidence, clinical features, outcomes, and mortality risk factors of sepsis associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in pediatric patients.

Methods

Patients were included in the study if they met the 2005 version of the International Pediatric Sepsis Consensus Conference and met the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference (PALICC) definition within 48 h of sepsis diagnosis. Patients were classified as mild, moderate, and severe by the worst oxygenation index (OI) within 72 h of sepsis‐related ARDS diagnosis.

Results

Between January 1, 2015 and March 13, 2020, 9836 patients were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of the Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University and 828 (8.4%) were identified with sepsis and 203 (24.5%) met the PALICC definition with a PICU mortality rate of 24.6% (50/203) and a 90‐day mortality rate of 40.9% (83/203). After adjusting for septic shock, the pediatric logistic organ dysfunction 2 (PELOD‐2), high‐frequency oscillation ventilation (HFOV), and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), the variables that retained an independent association with increased 90‐day mortality in pediatric sepsis‐related ARDS included ARDS severity, the pediatric risk of mortality III (PRISM III), number of organ dysfunctions and use of vasoactive drug types during PICU stay.

Conclusions

PICU mortality in pediatric sepsis‐related ARDS was high (24.6%) and severity of hypoxemia based on the worst OI value 72 h after meeting the PALICC definition accurately stratified the patient outcomes. ARDS severity, PRISM III score, comorbid multiorgan dysfunction, and use of multiple vasoactive drugs during PICU stay were independent risk factors for 90‐day mortality in pediatric sepsis‐related ARDS.
Dimeric assembly of human Suv3 helicase promotes its RNA unwinding function in mitochondrial RNA degradosome for RNA decay
Authors: Jain Monika , Golzarroshan Bagher , Lin Chia‐Liang , Agrawal Sashank , Tang Wei‐Hsuan , Wu Chiu‐Ju , Yuan Hanna S.
Published: April 2022

Human Suv3 is a unique homodimeric helicase that constitutes the major component of the mitochondrial degradosome to work cooperatively with exoribonuclease PNPase for efficient RNA decay. However, the molecular mechanism of how Suv3 is assembled into a homodimer to unwind RNA remains elusive. Here, we show that dimeric Suv3 preferentially binds to and unwinds DNA–DNA, DNA–RNA, and RNA–RNA duplexes with a long 3′ overhang (≥10 nucleotides). The C‐terminal tail (CTT)‐truncated Suv3 (Suv3ΔC) becomes a monomeric protein that binds to and unwinds duplex substrates with ~six to sevenfold lower activities relative to dimeric Suv3. Only dimeric Suv3, but not monomeric Suv3ΔC, binds RNA independently of ATP or ADP, and is capable of interacting with PNPase, indicating that dimeric Suv3 assembly ensures its continuous association with RNA and PNPase during ATP hydrolysis cycles for efficient RNA degradation. We further determined the crystal structure of the apo‐form of Suv3ΔC, and SAXS structures of dimeric Suv3 and PNPase–Suv3 complex, showing that dimeric Suv3 caps on the top of PNPase via interactions with S1 domains, and forms a dumbbell‐shaped degradosome complex with PNPase. Overall, this study reveals that Suv3 is assembled into a dimeric helicase by its CTT for efficient and persistent RNA binding and unwinding to facilitate interactions with PNPase, promote RNA degradation, and maintain mitochondrial genome integrity and homeostasis.
The impact of cardiovascular comorbidities associated with risk for left heart disease on idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension: Data from the Hellenic Pulmonary Hypertension Registry (HOPE)
Authors: Arvanitaki Alexandra , Vrana Elena , Boutsikou Maria , Anthi Anastasia , Apostolopoulou Sotiria , Avgeropoulou Aikaterini , Demerouti Eftychia , Patrianakos Alexandros , Karyofyllis Panagiotis , Mitrouska Ioanna , Mouratoglou Sophia A. , Naka Katerina K. , Orfanos Stylianos E. , Panagiotidou Evangelia , Pitsiou Georgia , Rammos Spyridon , Stanopoulos Ioannis , Thomaidi Adina , Frogoudaki Alexandra , Boutou Afroditi , Anastasiadis George , Brili Styliani , Tsangaris Iraklis , Tsiapras Dimitrios , Voudris Vassilios , Manginas Athanasios , Giannakoulas George
Published: April 2022

Whereas younger female patients were diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) in 1980s, it is now frequently encountered in elderly patients with cardiovascular comorbidities (CVCs) associated with increased risk for left heart disease. We present data until November 2019 regarding specific features and clinical outcomes of IPAH population from the Hellenic Pulmonary Hypertension Registry (HOPE). Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of ≥ or <3 CVCs, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, presence of coronary artery disease, or atrial fibrillation. Overall, 77 patients with IPAH (55.1 [interquartile range, IQR: 24.1] years, 62.8% women) have been recorded. Fifteen patients (19.2%) had ≥3 CVCs, while 25 (32%) were over 65 years old. Patients with ≥3 CVCs were older, presented an almost equal female to male ratio, walked less in 6‐min walk test, and had lower mean arterial pulmonary pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance at baseline than patients with less CVCs. Fewer patients with ≥3 CVCs received PAH‐specific treatment compared to patients with less comorbidities (n = 11 [73.3%] versus n = 58 [95.5%], p = 0.02). During a median follow‐up period of 3.8 (IQR: 2.7) years, 18 patients died (all‐cause mortality 24.3%). Male sex and older age were independent predictors of mortality and/or lung transplantation, while CVCs did not have a significant impact on clinical outcomes. In this nationwide, register‐based study, the epidemiology of IPAH involves older patients with CVCs, who seem to have less hemodynamic compromise, but worse functional impairment and are treated less aggressively with PAH pharmacotherapy.
Structures, electronic and thermodynamic properties of NiB2n (n = 7–11) and their anions: A theoretical study
Authors: Li Chenggang , Cui Yingqi , Tian Hao , Shao Qinqin , Zhang Jie , Shen Zigang , Ren Baozeng
Published: April 2022

Particle Swarm Optimization (CALYPSO) searching method and density functional theory (DFT) were used to study structures, electronic, and thermodynamic properties of NiB2n0/− (n = 7–11) clusters at the TPSSh/6‐311 + G(d) level of theory. Results found that the lowest energy structures possess a Ni atom‐centered double ring tubular boron structures, NiB180/− except. Relative stabilities were analyzed via computing their vertical ionization potentials (VIP), vertical electronic affinity (VEA), adiabatic electronic affinity (AEA), HOMO‐LUMO gaps and hardness. The infrared spectra, Raman spectra and photoelectron spectra were computationally simulated to facilitate their experimental characterizations. At last, aromatic properties (nucleus independent chemical shift and anisotropy of the current induced density) and thermodynamic properties (enthalpy and entropy) with temperature were discussed in detail for studied systems.
Application of 5G technology to conduct tele‐surgical robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy
Authors: Yang Xuecheng , Wang Yonghua , Jiao Wei , Li Jianmin , Wang Bingqiang , He Long , Chen Yongjian , Xuesong Gao  , Li Zhaoyu , Zhang Yu , Li Huanting , Wang Chen , Luo Lei , Song Mengqi , Lijiang Sun  , Zheng Jilu , Weidong Guo  , Yu Cao  , Zongyi Yu  , Xiao Hu  , Xuemei Ding  , Fengju Guan  , Wei Feng  , Kun Li  , Linlin Li  , Xinjuan Kong  , Lili Wei  , Hao Wang  , Bin Wei  , Hongmei Xue  , Wang Xinsheng , Zhang Guiming , Dong Qian , Niu Haitao
Published: April 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness, safety and stability of the 5G communication technology in clinical laparoscopic telesurgery.

Methods

An ultra‐remote radical cystectomy (network communication distance of nearly 3000 km) was performed on patient diagnosed with T2N0M0 stage bladder cancer using a domestically produced “MicroHand” surgical robot.

Results

The network delay, operative time, blood loss, intraoperative complications, postoperative recovery, and hospitalisation time were recorded. The 5G network was used throughout the operation, with an average total delay of 254 ms. The operation went well and the patient recovered smoothly.

Conclusions

Ultra‐remote clinical laparoscopic surgery can be performed safely and smoothly. More importantly, our model can provide insights for promoting the future development of telesurgery in China.
The relationship of sense of school belonging to physics attitude among high school students in advanced physics courses
Authors: Smith Thomas J. , Hong Zuway‐R , Hsu Wen‐Yi , Lu Ying‐Yan
Published: April 2022

This study examined how high school students' attitudes toward advanced physics were predicted by their sense of school belonging, and how gender moderated this relationship. The Trends in International Math and Science (TIMSS) 2015 Advanced data, consisting of responses from 12th grade students enrolled in advanced physics courses among nine countries were used for analysis. Results indicated that students' sense of school belonging significantly predicted the extent that students liked learning advanced physics and their valuing of advanced physics and, among Lebanese students, it was the most important predictor. Additionally, the relationship between students' sense of school belonging and liking advanced physics was stronger for males than for females in Norway and Sweden, while the relationship between the sense of school belonging and valuing advanced physics was stronger for males than females in France and Sweden.
Penalized likelihood estimation of a mixture cure Cox model with partly interval censoring—An application to thin melanoma
Authors: Webb Annabel , Ma Jun , Lô Serigne N.
Published: April 2022

Time‐to‐event data in medical studies may involve some patients who are cured and will never experience the event of interest. In practice, those cured patients are right censored. However, when data contain a cured fraction, standard survival methods such as Cox proportional hazards models can produce biased results and therefore misleading interpretations. In addition, for some outcomes, the exact time of an event is not known; instead an interval of time in which the event occurred is recorded. This article proposes a new computational approach that can deal with both the cured fraction issues and the interval censoring challenge. To do so, we extend the traditional mixture cure Cox model to accommodate data with partly interval censoring for the observed event times. The traditional method for estimation of the model parameters is based on the expectation‐maximization (EM) algorithm, where the log‐likelihood is maximized through an indirect complete data log‐likelihood function. We propose in this article an alternative algorithm that directly optimizes the log‐likelihood function. Extensive Monte Carlo simulations are conducted to demonstrate the performance of the new method over the EM algorithm. The main advantage of the new algorithm is the generation of asymptotic variance matrices for all the estimated parameters. The new method is applied to a thin melanoma dataset to predict melanoma recurrence. Various inferences, including survival and hazard function plots with point‐wise confidence intervals, are presented. An R package is now available at Github and will be uploaded to R CRAN.
Recent Advances in Bimetallic Catalysts for Hydrogen Production from Ammonia
Authors: Khan Wasim U , Alasiri Hassan S , Ali Syed A , Hossain Mohammad M
Published: April 2022

The emerging concept of the hydrogen economy is facing challenges associated with hydrogen storage and transport. The utilization of ammonia as an energy (hydrogen) carrier for the on‐site generation of hydrogen via ammonia decomposition has gained attraction among the scientific community. Ruthenium‐based catalysts are highly active but their high cost and less abundance are limitations for scale‐up application. Therefore, combining ruthenium with cheaper transition metals such as nickel, cobalt, iron, molybdenum, etc., to generate metal‐metal (bimetallic) surfaces suitable for ammonia decomposition has been investigated in recent years. Herein, the recent trends in developing bimetallic catalyst systems, the role of metal type, support materials, promoter, synthesis techniques, and the investigations of the reaction kinetics and mechanism for ammonia decomposition have been reviewed.
A Review on SAPO‐34 Zeolite Materials for CO2 Capture and Conversion
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Ghanem Akram S. , Niaz Ali Shah Syed , Garba Mustapha D. , Yusuf Khan Mohd , Khan Sikandar , Humayun Muhammad , Laeeq Khan Asim
Published: April 2022

Among several known zeolites, silicoaluminophosphate (SAPO)‐34 zeolite exhibits a distinct chemical structure, unique pore size distribution, and chemical, thermal, and ion exchange capabilities, which have recently attracted considerable research attention. Global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are a serious environmental issue. Current atmospheric CO2 level exceeds 414 parts per million (ppm), which greatly influences humans, fauna, flora, and the ecosystem as a whole. Zeolites play a vital role in CO2 removal, recycling, and utilization. This review summarizes the properties of the SAPO‐34 zeolite and its role in CO2 capture and separation from air and natural gas. In addition, due to their high thermal stability and catalytic nature, CO2 conversions into valuable products over single metal, bi‐metallic, and tri‐metallic catalysts and their oxides supported on SAPO‐34 were also summarized. Considering these accomplishments, substantial problems related to SAPO‐34 are discussed, and future recommendations are offered in detail to predict how SAPO‐34 could be employed for greenhouse gas mitigation.