bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Student engagement and counseling skill self‐efficacy: Comparing two course formats
Authors: Mason Erin Chase McCarty , Dispenza Franco , Placeres Vanessa , Grad Ramona , Ray Merideth , Robertson Adrianne , Dosal‐Terminel Daniel , Metzler Mike
Published: June 2022

A between‐group, repeated‐measures study compared sections of a career counseling course. One course used a flipped classroom design, while the other used a lecture. The flipped classroom yielded higher ratings of career counseling self‐efficacy and active engagement among students. There were no differences in helping skills self‐efficacy between the courses.
The performance of international small and medium‐sized enterprises: Overview and future research directions
Authors: Lamb Philippe , Darouichi Oussama , Jonczyk Sédès Claudia
Published: June 2022

Our study aims to assess the state of knowledge on the performance of international small and medium‐sized (SME) firms, and formulate a relevant research agenda. We review 231 contributions published between 1993 and 2019, and identify the main theoretical debates, key success factors and measures of international SME performance, and the theoretical and methodological approaches used in this literature. Based on our analysis, we propose a definition of performance factors according to the theoretical frameworks identified, and the overall determinants and performance measures identified. For future research, we suggest a more holistic theoretical and empirical perspective, a qualitative and longitudinal approach, and a greater focus on developing country SMEs.
Prognostic attributes of immune signatures in soft tissue sarcomas show differential dependencies on tumor mutational burden
Authors: Raj Shailaja K. S. , Routh Eric D. , Chou Jeff W. , Votanopoulos Konstantinos I. , Triozzi Pierre L. , Miller Lance D.
Published: June 2022

Background

Cellular and intrinsic markers of sarcoma immunogenicity are poorly understood. To gain insight into whether tumor–immune interactions correlate with clinical aggressiveness, the authors examined the prognostic significance of immune gene signatures in combination with tumor mutational burden (TMB) and cancer–testis antigen (CTA) expression.

Methods

RNA sequencing and clinical data of 259 soft tissue sarcomas from The Cancer Genome Atlas project were used to investigate associations between published immune gene signatures and patient overall survival (OS) in the contexts of TMB, as computed from whole‐exome sequencing data, and CTA gene expression. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models and log‐rank tests were used to assess survival associations.

Results

Immune signature scores that reflected in part the intratumoral abundance of cytotoxic T cells showed significant positive associations with OS. However, the prognostic power of the T‐cell signatures was highly dependent on TMB‐high status, consistent with protective effects of tumor‐infiltrating T cells in tumors with elevated antigenicity. In TMB‐low tumors, a signature of infiltrating plasma B cells was significantly and positively associated with OS, independent of T‐cell signature status. Although tumor subtypes based on differential expression patterns of CTA genes showed different survival associations within leiomyosarcoma and myxofibrosarcoma histologies, neither CTA nor histologic subtype interacted with the T‐cell–survival association.

Conclusions

Signatures of T‐cell and plasma B‐cell infiltrates were associated with a survival benefit in soft tissue sarcomas. TMB, but not CTA expression, influenced the prognostic power of T‐cell–associated, but not plasma B‐cell–associated, survival.

Lay summary

Clinical data and RNA analysis of 259 soft tissue sarcomas from The Cancer Genome Atlas project were used to investigate associations between five published gene immune cell expression signatures and survival in the context of tumor mutations.

Activated T cells had a significant positive association with patient survival.

Although high tumor mutation burden was associated with good survival, the prognostic power of T‐cell signatures was highly dependent on tumor mutational status, consistent with protective effects of tumor‐infiltrating T cells in tumors with high levels of antigens.

In low tumor mutation‐bearing tumors, plasma B cells were positively associated with survival.
Nonstructural carbohydrate content in the stubble per unit area regulates grain yield of the second crop in rice ratooning
Authors: Nakano Hiroshi , Tanaka Ryo , Hakata Makoto
Published: June 2022

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) ratooning has attracted attention due to its higher yield potential. In the present study, a field experiment on rice ratooning using two rice genotypes, near isogenic line (NIL)‐GN1ATakanari and Koshihikari, was conducted in 2019 and 2020 in southwestern Japan to obtain direct evidence for the role of stubble nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) concentration and/or content per unit area on grain yield of the second crop and to determine the effectiveness of a gene producing more spikelets. NIL‐GN1ATakanari is a near isogenic line carrying an allele of GN1A, which is a gene regulating the number of spikelets per unit area derived from an indica cultivar Takanari in the genetic background of a japonica cultivar Koshihikari, and it can produce more spikelets than Koshihikari. NIL‐GN1ATakanari did not produce a higher grain yield of the first crop than Koshihikari in both years because NIL‐GN1ATakanari had more spikelets m−2 but fewer filled spikelets and a lower grain weight. NIL‐GN1ATakanari produced a lower grain yield of the second crop than Koshihikari because NIL‐GN1ATakanari had fewer spikelets m−2 due to the fewer panicles. Also, NIL‐GN1ATakanari had a lower NSC content than Koshihikari due to the lower leaf sheath plus stem weight in the stubble in 2019. Thus, the lower grain yield in the second crop of NIL‐GN1ATakanari may result from the lower NSC content in the stubble. Additionally, the ability to produce more spikelets per unit area of NIL‐GN1ATakanari was not demonstrated in ratoon crop under the condition of low NSC content in the stubble.
Environmental, Social, Governance scores and the Missing pillar—Why does missing information matter?
Authors: Sahin Özge , Bax Karoline , Czado Claudia , Paterlini Sandra
Published: June 2022

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) scores measure companies' performance concerning sustainability and are organized in three pillars: Environmental, Social, and Governance. These complementary non‐financial ESG scores should provide information about companies' ESG performance and risks. However, the extent of not yet published ESG information makes the reliability of ESG scores questionable. To explicitly capture the not yet published information on ESG category scores, a new pillar, the so‐called Missing (M) pillar, is proposed and added to the new definition of the Environmental, Social, Governance, and Missing (ESGM) scores. By relying on the data provided by Refinitiv, we show that the ESGM scores strengthen the companies' risk relationship. These new scores could benefit investors and practitioners as ESG exclusion strategies using only ESG scores might exclude assets with a low score solely because of their missing information and not necessarily because of a low ESG merit.
Comparison of Fork‐tip and Franseen needles for endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle biopsy in pancreatic solid lesions: A propensity‐matched analysis
Authors: Fujita Akashi , Ryozawa Shomei , Tanisaka Yuki , Ogawa Tomoya , Saito Yoichi , Katsuda Hiromune , Miyaguchi Kazuya , Yasuda Masanori , Araki Ryuichiro , Mashimo Yumi , Tashima Tomoaki , Nakano Yuya , Terada Rie , Jinushi Ryuhei , Mizuide Masafumi
Published: June 2022

Objectives

There is no unanimity regarding the most appropriate needle to use for an endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle biopsy (EUS‐FNB). To date, new types of FNB needles have been designed, including the Fork‐tip and Franseen needles. This study primarily aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy and histological quality between the use of the Franseen and Fork‐tip needles in EUS‐FNB for solid pancreatic lesions.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively analyzed 147 patients at our center for solid pancreatic lesions, 75 of whom underwent EUS‐FNB using a 22‐G Franseen needle, and 72 using a 22‐G Fork‐tip needle, from December 2019 to September 2021. The present study conducted a propensity‐matched analysis and confounder adjustment.

Results

The diagnostic accuracy of the Fork‐tip group (93.3%, 42/45) was the same as that of the Franseen group. For the core tissue and blood scores, no significant difference was observed (p = 0.58, 0.25) between the two groups. The rate of changes in the operator from that of a trainee to an expert was less in the Fork‐tip group (4.4%, 2/45) than in the Franseen group (15.6%, 7/45), but not significantly different (p = 0.16).

Conclusions

In both groups, the diagnostic accuracy and histological quality were not significantly different. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the rate of operator changes. As both needles are useful, the choice of using either of them is equally good.
Evolutionary innovations of human cerebral cortex viewed through the lens of high‐throughput sequencing
Authors: Suzuki Ikuo K.
Published: June 2022

Humans had acquired a tremendously enlarged cerebral cortex containing a huge quantity and variety of cells during evolution. Such evolutionary uniqueness offers a neural basis of our cognitive innovation and human‐specific features of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Since human brain is hardly examined in vivo with experimental approaches commonly applied on animal models, the recent advancement of sequencing technologies offers an indispensable viewpoint of human brain anatomy and development. This review introduces the recent findings on the unique features in the adult and the characteristic developmental processes of the human cerebral cortex, based on high‐throughput DNA sequencing technologies.
How maternal age and environmental cues influence embryonic developmental pathways and diapause dynamics in a North American annual killifish
Authors: Omar Domínguez‐Castanedo , Sharon Valdez‐Carbajal , Alejandra Martínez‐Blancas , M. Muñoz‐Campos Tessy
Published: June 2022

Background

Temporary pools are variable environments with seasonal drought/flood phases. Annual killifish have adapted to life in temporary pools by producing embryos that undergo diapause to traverse the dry phase. To fill existing knowledge gaps about embryo diapause regulation and evolution in annual killifishes, we test the effect of maternal age, incubation temperature, and incubation medium on diapause induction and length in Millerichthys robustus, the only North American fish species that has evolved an annual life history.

Results

All embryos at extreme temperatures follow a defined developmental pathway: skipping diapause at 30°C, and entering diapause at 18°C, both regardless of maternal age, and incubation medium. However, maternal age, and incubation medium influenced whether diapause is entered, and time arrested in diapause for embryos incubated at 25°C. At 25°C, five‐week‐old, and 52‐week‐old females produced more embryos that entered diapause than 26‐week‐old females. Also, embryos incubated in aqueous medium skipped diapause more frequently at this intermediate temperature.

Conclusions

Millerichthys developmental dynamics associated with maternal age under intermediate range of temperatures are likely adapted to the particular patterns of flood/drought in North American temporary pools. Millerichthys also exhibits developmental patterns largely comparable with other annual fishes, probably due to common seasonal patterns in temporary pools.
Causal associations between sleep traits and four cardiac diseases: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yang Yongli , Fan Jingwen , Shi Xuezhong , Wang Yuping , Yang Chaojun , Lian Jiao , Wang Nana , Zhao Chenyu , Zhao Yang , Jia Xiaocan
Published: June 2022

Aims

Previous studies investigated the associations between sleep traits and cardiac diseases, but the evidence for the causal inferences was unclear. This study aimed to explore the causal relationship between sleep and cardiac diseases by virtue of Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods and results

Summary‐level data for exposure variables (sleep duration, chronotype, and insomnia) and outcome variables (ischaemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and heart failure) were derived from UK Biobank. Data from the FinnGen consortium was used as a robustness check. In MR analysis, the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was applied to infer causality between exposure and outcome. MR‐Egger regression was used to identify pleiotropy, and MR‐PRESSO outlier test was used to remove the pleiotropy of the genetic instruments. Based on UK Biobank, MR analysis suggested that sleep duration was weakly associated with atrial fibrillation (OR = 0.9999, 95% CI: 0.9998–0.9999) and ischaemic heart disease (OR = 0.9997, 95% CI: 0.9995–0.9998). Insomnia was associated with ischaemic heart disease (OR = 1.0117, 95% CI: 1.0051–1.0183) and myocardial infarction (OR = 1.0049, 95% CI: 1.0019–1.0079). No associations were found between chronotype and cardiac diseases (P > 0.05). We did not find pleiotropy except for insomnia with ischaemic heart disease and myocardial infarction using MR‐Egger regression, and MR‐PRESSO analysis consistent with IVW. Finally, we obtained the same direction as with UK Biobank using the FinnGen data.

Conclusions

Sleep duration and insomnia might be the potential causal risk factors of cardiac diseases. As the OR was small, these associations are probably not clinically relevant. Further validation studies are needed.
A holistic green system coupling hydrogen production with wastewater valorisation
Authors: Jiang Lixue , Pan Jian , Li Qiyuan , Chen Han , Zhou Shujie , Yu Zhichun , Jiang Shuaiyu , Yin Huajie , Guan Jing , Taylor Robert A. , Fisher Ruth , Leslie Greg , Scott Jason , Zhao Huijun , Wang Da‐Wei
Published: June 2022

Green hydrogen represents a critical underpinning technology for achieving carbon neutrality. Although researchers often fixate on its energy inputs, a truly ‘green’ hydrogen production process would also be sustainable in terms of water and materials inputs. To address this holistic challenge, we demonstrate a new green hydrogen production system which can utilize secondary wastewater as the input (preserving scarce fresh water supplies for drinking and sanitation). The enabling feature of the proposed system is a self‐grown bifunctional CoNi electrode which consists of ultrathin, spontaneously deposited CoNi nanosheets on a three‐dimensional nickel foam. As such, a green synthesis process was developed using an immersion procedure at room‐temperature with zero net energy input. Testing revealed that the synthesized CoNi electrodes can reach a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at a small overpotential of 197 mV for the hydrogen evolution reaction and 315 mV for the oxygen evolution reaction in alkalified wastewater. The values are ~16.5% and ~6.5% smaller than that from precious catalysts (20 wt% Pt/C and RuO2, respectively). Importantly, this CoNi catalyst offers outstanding durability for overall wastewater splitting. A prototype solar‐energy‐powered rooftop wastewater splitting system was constructed and can produce more than 100 L hydrogen on a sunny day in Sydney, Australia. Taken together, these results indicate that it is promising to unlock holistically green routes for hydrogen production by wastewater uplifting with regards to water, energy, and materials synthesis.

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Growth hormone deficiency and NAFLD: An overlooked and underrecognized link
Authors: Doycheva Iliana , Erickson Dana , Watt Kymberly D.
Published: June 2022

Growth hormone and its mediator insulin‐like growth factor‐1 exert their effect on different organs and control various physiologic metabolic processes. Adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD) presents with one or more components of metabolic syndrome and can be associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). AGHD is present in spectrum of hypothalamic/pituitary disorders as well as cranial radiation of brain tumors and often remains underdiagnosed or untreated due to its nonspecific symptoms, relatively difficult diagnosis in some clinical scenarios, and various barriers to treatment. NAFLD usually develops soon after diagnosis of AGHD and might progress rapidly to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with advanced fibrosis, eventually requiring liver transplantation. A timely initiation of growth hormone replacement therapy might be important, although studies so far have demonstrated controversial results on NAFLD, primarily due to small sample size and different diagnostic methods of NAFLD. Increased awareness of the association between AGHD and NAFLD would facilitate early diagnosis of NAFLD and NASH if present. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach involving hepatology and endocrinology should become a standard of care for these patients.
Structure‐based study to identify alkaloids as promising cytochrome P450 (CYP1A1) inhibitors: An in silico approach using virtual screening, molecular dynamic simulations, and binding free energy calculation
Authors: Verma Ved Vrat , Bhargava Lalit , Sajid Mohammad , Kumar Amit , Singh Harpreet , Bharadwaj Mausumi
Published: June 2022

Carcinogens present in smokeless tobacco (SLT) like tobacco‐specific nitrosamines can be metabolized by the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme. Functionally, the CYP450 enzyme resides in a heme pigment to perform the catalytic activity. The CYP1A1 is one of the main extrahepatic CYP450 enzymes known to detoxify toxic substances and activate carcinogens. The CYP1A1 inhibition by potential inhibitors reduce the chance of oral cancer. The current study aimed to explore more about the inhibitor binding site and identification of lead alkaloids, that could work as putative inhibitors against target CYP1A1. In respect, we have performed docking studies, virtual screening of alkaloids, and natural product libraries against CYP1A1 followed by molecular dynamic simulations and binding free energy calculations. Docking studies of tobacco‐specific nitrosamine (TSNA) products and their similar carcinogen analogs revealed that the heme group is bound to the floor of the bowl‐shaped cavity whereas carcinogens are bound to the roof of the rounded shape cavity. Furthermore, virtual screening and binding free energy calculations revealed Tomatidine as a putative inhibitor against CYP1A1. On the basis of altogether outcomes of the current study, we have concluded that the addition of lead‐hit alkaloid Tomatidine and others in SLT products may be working as a supplement that could be able to reduce the expression of human CYP1A1 and suppresses carcinogenic by‐products formations.
Treatment of metabolic disorders using genomic technologies: Lessons from methylmalonic acidemia
Authors: Venturoni Leah E. , Venditti Charles P.
Published: June 2022

Hereditary methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) caused by deficiency of the enzyme methylmalonyl‐CoA mutase (MMUT) is a relatively common and severe organic acidemia. The recalcitrant nature of the condition to conventional dietary and medical management has led to the use of elective liver and combined liver‐kidney transplantation in some patients. However, liver transplantation is intrinsically limited by organ availability, the risks of surgery, procedural and life‐long management costs, transplant comorbidities, and a remaining underlying risk of complications related to MMA despite transplantation. Here, we review pre‐clinical studies that present alternative approaches to solid organ transplantation as a treatment for MMUT MMA, including adeno‐associated viral gene addition therapy, mRNA therapy, and genome editing, with and without nuclease enhancement.
Aging and macrophages: Not standing the test of time?
Authors: Sureshchandra Suhas , Messaoudi Ilhem
Published: June 2022

The underlying mechanism of immunosenescence and compromised responses to environmental stressors in alveolar macrophages is a result of epigenetic dysregulation, rather than loss of subtypes.
Dynamic immune ecosystem of dengue infection revealed by single-cell sequencing
Authors: Xu Gang , Gao Yueying , Pan Tao , Li Si , Zhang Ya , Guo Jing , Tian Zhanyu , Xu Juan , Li Yongsheng , Li Xia
Published: June 2022

Dengue is the most common human arboviral disease worldwide, which can result in severe complications. A dysfunctional immune response in dengue infective patients is a recurrent theme impacting symptoms and mortality, but the heterogeneity and dynamics of immune infiltrates during dengue infection remain poorly characterized. Here, we identified the immune cell types in scRNA-seq data from 13127 cells of 10 dengue infective patients and discovered the dynamic immune ecosystems of dengue infection. Notably, genes that exhibited higher expression in specific cell types play important roles in response to virus infection in a module manner. Transcription factors (TFs) are the major regulators (i.e., PAX5, IRF7, KLF4, and IRF8) that can potentially regulate infection-related genes. We demonstrated that the dynamic rewired regulatory network during dengue infection. Moreover, our data revealed the complex cell–cell communications from control to fever and severe dengue patients and prevalent cell–cell communication rewiring was observed. We further identified the IFN-II and CXCL signaling pathways that medicated the communications and play important roles in dengue infection. Together, our comprehensive analysis of dynamic immune ecosystem of dengue infection provided novel insights for understanding the pathogenesis of and developing effective therapeutic strategies for dengue infection.
Effects of molecular weight of polyaspartic acid on nitrogen use efficiency and crop yield
Authors: Liu Tai , Yang Jinhui , Wang Hongyuan , Chen Yanxue , Ren Jie , Lin Xiaobo , Zhao Junchai , Chen Bingyi , Liu Hongbin
Published: June 2022

Background

In the past decades, ever‐increasing fertilizer use has led to a continuous increase in agricultural output. However, serious waste of resources occurs because of the low utilization of fertilizers. Polyaspartic acid (PASP) is a biodegradable polymer that can be used as a fertilizer synergist in agricultural production to improve the nutrient utilization capacity of plants. For polymers, the molecular weight (MW) often affects their effectiveness. However, little information is available on the effects of PASP MW in agriculture, especially on nitrogen leaching and plant element uptake.

Results

This work was conducted to identify the effect of PASPs with three different MWs – PASP‐1 (MW: 5517), PASP‐2 (MW: 6934), and PASP‐3 (MW: 7568) – on nitrogen leaching, lettuce growth, and wheat cultivation. The results revealed that PASP favored plant growth and nitrogen accumulation in the soil, independent of crop species. PASP with a higher MW improved yields and the agronomic characteristics of lettuce and wheat. Furthermore, apparent amelioration of nitrogen use efficiency for lettuce (7.6%, 12.8%, and 15.0%) and wheat (4.6%, 8.1%, and 9.2%) was observed in the treatments with PASP addition. The effects and merits of PASPs on preventing ammonium nitrogen leaching and improving lettuce and wheat productivity were as follows: PASP‐3 > PASP‐2 > PASP‐1.

Conclusion

The MW of PASP is an essential factor affecting inorganic nitrogen leaching and crop productivity, and PASP with a higher MW (7568) is recommended for application in agriculture. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pregnancy complications and intimate partner violence: The moderating role of prenatal posttraumatic stress symptoms
Authors: Gilliam Hannah C. , Howell Kathryn H. , Paulson Julia L. , Napier Taylor R. , Miller‐Graff Laura E.
Published: June 2022

Intimate partner violence (IPV) and posttraumatic stress disorder increase the risk of poor pregnancy outcomes, but associations among IPV exposure, mental health, and pregnancy complications remain underexplored. This study assessed the interaction between three types of IPV exposure (i.e., physical, sexual, psychological) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) on prenatal complications (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes) among pregnant women exposed to IPV. Participants included 137 IPV‐exposed pregnant women (Mage = 27.29, SD = 6.00; 66.9% African American/Black). Three regression models were run to test the main effect of each type of IPV and PTSS on pregnancy complications, and the moderating effect of PTSS on the association between IPV and pregnancy complications, controlling for socioeconomic status, gestational age, and childhood trauma. Main effects were observed for sexual coercion, β = .32, p = .010, R2part = .050, and PTSS, β = 0.19, p = .039, R2part = .026, with more frequent sexual IPV and higher levels of PTSS associated with more pregnancy complications. Moderating effects were also evident, with the IPV x PTSS interaction significant for all three IPV domains: psychological aggression, f2 = .046; sexual coercion, f2 = .079; and physical assault, f2 = .048. PTSS strengthened the positive association between psychological and sexual IPV and pregnancy complications. Physical IPV and pregnancy complications were inversely related for participants with low‐level PTSS. Results provide novel information on how IPV types and PTSS function together during pregnancy. Findings highlight the need for evidence‐based prenatal interventions that successfully address both IPV exposure and PTSS severity.
Does Cystocele Type Vary Between Vaginally Parous and Nulliparous Women?
Authors: Vereeck Sascha , Pacquée Stefaan , Jacquemyn Yves , Neels Hedwig , De Wachter Stefan , Weeg Natalie , Dietz Hans Peter
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To evaluate whether cystocele type varies with vaginal parity.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 464 vaginally nulliparous women seen at 2 urogynecology units between November 2006 and November 2019. A control group consisted of 871 vaginally parous women seen between July 2017 and November 2019. Patients underwent a standardized interview, POPQ, urodynamic testing, and translabial ultrasound. On imaging, significant cystocele was defined as bladder descent to ≥10 mm below symphysis pubis. Volume datasets were analyzed offline and blinded against clinical data.

Results

Of 5266 women seen during the inclusion period, 464 were vaginally nulliparous. Three were excluded due to missing data, leaving 461. A control group of 871 parous women was generated from patients seen during the last 2.5 years of the inclusion period. Vaginally nulliparous women were presented at a younger age compared to vaginally parous women (P < .001). Symptoms of prolapse were reported in 104 (22%) nulliparae and 489 (56%) parous women (P < .0001). Vaginally parous women demonstrated more bladder descent (P < .0001) and more cystocele (418/871 versus 43/461, P < .0001), with a higher proportion of type III cystocele (cystocele with intact retrovesical angle) (20/43 versus 273/ 418, P < .0001). Cystourethrocele (Green type II) was more common in nulliparae and cystocele type III in parous women (P = .015). On multivariate analysis, these differences in proportions remained significant (P = .049).

Conclusions

Nulliparity was associated with a higher proportion of Green type II cystoceles. Green type III cystocele was more common in vaginally parous women, suggesting that the latter may be more likely to be due to childbirth‐related pelvic floor trauma.
Hypothyroidism After Using Superior Thyroid Artery as A Recipient Artery
Authors: Nakamura Ryota , Takanari Keisuke , Hanai Nobuhiro , Suzuki Hidenori , Nishikawa Daisuke , Okumura Seiko , Maruyama Yoko , Hyodo Ikuo
Published: June 2022

Objective

Superior thyroid artery (SThA) is a common recipient artery in free tissue transfer even after total pharyngolaryngoesophagectomy (TPLE) with hemithyroidectomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of SThA as a recipient vessel affect thyroid function in patients undergoing TPLE with hemithyroidectomy.

Methods

From 2011 to 2020, 91 patients who underwent free jejunum transfer after TPLE with hemithyroidectomy were divided into two groups. In Group1 (n = 47), the contralateral SThA was used for the anastomosis. In Group2 (n = 44), other vessels were used. Retrospective chart review was performed comparing postoperative thyroid function between two groups.

Results

In group1, 17 patients presented hypothyroidism, 21 presented latent hypothyroidism and 9 presented no thyroid dysfunction comparing 15, 19, and 10 respectively in group 2. There were no significant differences between the two groups.

Conclusion

Even after hemithyroidectomy, with inferior thyroid arteries are preserved, the SThA can be used as a recipient vessel.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:557–561, 2023
Improvement of corrosion and stress corrosion properties of magnesium alloys by coating aluminum with the electric arc spray method
Authors: Catar Recep , Altun Hikmet
Published: June 2022

In this study, corrosion and stress corrosion behaviors of AZ31, AZ61, and AZ91 magnesium alloys coated with aluminum by the electric arc spray method were investigated in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. Structural properties of coated materials were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, and X‐ray diffraction. Electrochemical properties were determined using the potentiodynamic polarization method in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. Potentiodynamic polarization curves showed that corrosion current density values did not change with coating in aluminum‐coated samples by the electric arc spray method. In contrast, corrosion potential value increased toward positive values. Slow strain rate test (SSRT) was used to determine the stress corrosion behavior and stress corrosion indexes (ISCC), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and elongation of AZ31, AZ61, and AZ91 magnesium (Mg) alloys were determined. As a result of the SSRT, the aluminum coating process decreased significantly the stress corrosion indexes of AZ31, AZ61, and AZ91 Mg alloys. The fracture of surface images was also examined in the SEM, and both intergranular and transgranular stress corrosion cracking were observed in all three alloys.
Porous Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐Based Electrodes for Detecting Stress Biomarkers in Artificial Urine and Sweat
Authors: Borras Nuria , Sánchez‐Jiménez Margarita , Casanovas Jordi , Alemán Carlos , Pérez‐Madrigal Maria M.
Published: June 2022

When danger is perceived, the human body responds to overcome obstacles and survive a stressful situation; however, sustained levels of stress are associated with health disorders and diminished life quality. Hence, stress biomarkers are monitored to control stress quantitatively. Herein, a porous sensor (4l‐COP/p) composed of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene‐co‐N‐methylpyrrole) (COP), which is prepared in a four‐layered fashion to detect dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5‐HT), is presented. Specifically, the detection is conducted in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), as well as artificial urine and sweat, by applying cyclic voltammetry. The limit of detection values obtained are as low as 5.7 × 10−6 and 1.4 × 10−6 m for DA and 5‐HT, respectively, when assessed individually in artificial urine. When mixed in PBS, 4l‐COP/p detects both biomarkers with a resolution of 0.18 V and a sensitivity of 40 and 30 µA mm−1 for DA and 5‐HT, respectively. Additionally, by theoretical calculations, the interaction pattern that each stress biomarker establishes with the PEDOT outer layer is elucidated. Whereas DA interacts with the π‐system of PEDOT, 5‐HT forms specific hydrogen bonds with the conducting polymer chains. The resolution value obtained depends upon such interactions. Overall, 4l‐COP/p electrodes display potential as stress sensing devices for healthcare technologies.
Internally Functionalized Dendrimers Based on Fully Substituted 1,2,3‐Triazoles
Authors: Niu Lijiao , Song Ningning , Wang Xiaojun , Ding Shengtao
Published: June 2022

Being one important class in dendrimer chemistry, internally functionalized dendrimers (IFDs) are still exiguous. Here, the first construction of IFDs involving fully substituted 1,2,3‐triazole rings as interior functionality carriers is demonstrated. Through divergent or convergent synthetic protocols established on the efficient iridium‐catalyzed annulation of internal 1‐thioalkynes with organic azides, sequence‐controlled heterolayered dendrimers with different branched structures are achieved in a convenient manner. 1H NMR, mass spectrometry, and size exclusion chromatography characterizations well identify their architecture and high purity.
Striatal Blood–Brain Barrier Opening in Parkinson's Disease Dementia: A Pilot Exploratory Study
Authors: Pineda‐Pardo José A. , Gasca‐Salas Carmen , Fernández‐Rodríguez Beatriz , Rodríguez‐Rojas Rafael , del Álamo Marta , Obeso Ignacio , Hernández‐Fernández Frida , Trompeta Clara , Martínez‐Fernández Raúl , Matarazzo Michele , Mata‐Marín David , Guida Pasqualina , Duque Alicia , Albillo David , Plaza de las Heras Isabel , Montero Juan I. , Foffani Guglielmo , Toltsis Gabriella , Rachmilevitch Itay , Blesa Javier , Obeso José A.
Published: June 2022

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) exhibits a high prevalence of dementia as disease severity and duration progress. Focused ultrasound (FUS) has been applied for transient blood–brain barrier (BBB) opening of cortical regions in neurodegenerative disorders. The striatum is a primary target for delivery of putative therapeutic agents in PD.

Objective

Here, we report a prospective, single‐arm, nonrandomized, proof‐of‐concept, phase I clinical trial (NCT03608553 amended) in PD with dementia to test the safety and feasibility of striatal BBB opening in PD patients.

Methods

Seven PD patients with cognitive impairment were treated for BBB opening in the posterior putamen. This was performed in two sessions separated by 2 to 4 weeks, where the second session included bilateral putamina opening in 3 patients. Primary outcome measures included safety and feasibility of focal striatal BBB opening. Changes in motor and cognitive functions, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 18F‐fluorodopa (FDOPA), and β‐amyloid PET (positron emission tomography) images were determined.

Results

The procedure was feasible and well tolerated, with no serious adverse events. No neurologically relevant change in motor and cognitive (battery of neuropsychological tests) functions was recognized at follow‐up. MRI revealed putamen BBB closing shortly after treatment (24 hours to 14 days) and ruled out hemorrhagic and ischemic lesions. There was a discrete but significant reduction in β‐amyloid uptake in the targeted region and no change in FDOPA PET.

Conclusions

These initial results indicate that FUS‐mediated striatal BBB opening is feasible and safe and therefore could become an effective tool to facilitate the delivery of putative neurorestorative molecules in PD. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
The application of predefined weather patterns over India within probabilistic medium‐range forecasting tools for high‐impact weather
Authors: Neal Robert , Guentchev Galina , Arulalan T , Robbins Joanne , Crocker Ric , Mitra Ashis , Jayakumar A.
Published: June 2022

A method is presented for deriving probabilistic medium‐range (1‐to‐2‐week) weather pattern forecasts for India. This method uses an existing set of 30 objectively derived daily weather patterns, which provide climatological representations for unique states in the large‐scale circulation over India. Weather pattern forecast probabilities are based on the number of ensemble members objectively assigned to each weather pattern. Two summer monsoon case studies illustrate the best use of the forecasting tool within medium‐range guidance, such as highlighting the most likely weather pattern transitions and relating these to the likelihood of weather impacts. Forecast skill is evident out to at least 10–15 days. Winter dry period weather patterns have the highest forecast skill, closely followed by retreating monsoon weather patterns. In contrast, monsoon onset and break monsoon weather patterns have the lowest forecast skill. Finally, a prototype weather pattern forecast climatology application is presented for use in highlighting when extreme rainfall is more likely than normal. This application is based on weather pattern empirical probabilities of threshold exceedances using a high‐resolution regional reanalysis. The transitional pre‐ and post‐monsoon seasons have the greatest variability in rainfall across all possible weather patterns, with a slight dip in variability during the main summer monsoon season. In contrast, very little variability across weather patterns is evident during the relatively dry winter months. This highlights the times of year when a climatology‐based weather pattern forecasting approach may have its greatest benefits over that of a basic daily climatology.
Efficient reliability‐based design of slope angles in spatially variable soils with field data
Authors: Jiang Shui‐Hua , Liu Xian , Huang Jinsong , Zhou Chuang‐Bing
Published: June 2022

Deterministic single factor of safety method cannot explicitly account for the influences of various sources of uncertainties (e.g., spatial variability of geomaterials, measurement and transformation uncertainties) in stability design of slopes. Many probabilistic methods have been applied to the reliability‐based design (RBD) of slopes, but they typically require performing numerous deterministic slope stability analyses. In this paper, an efficient reliability‐based design method for spatially varying slopes based on field data is proposed. Here, the RBD of a slope angle is concerned. Reliability‐based design is implemented using an inverse First Order Reliability Method (inverse FORM ‐ IFORM). A sandy slope and a cohesive slope are investigated as examples, respectively, to illustrate the proposed method. The results indicate that the proposed method can quickly obtain rational design schemes of slope angles accounting for the spatial variability of soil properties, measurement and transformation uncertainties based on the field data. It can act as a practical and effective tool for the RBD of slopes in two‐dimensional spatially variable soils. Additionally, it is found that the random field mesh size affects the RBD results significantly, while the probability distribution and horizontal autocorrelation of soil parameters have slight influences on the RBD results.
A fully second‐order homogenization formulation for the multi‐scale modeling of heterogeneous materials
Authors: Rodrigues Lopes Igor A. , Andrade Pires Francisco M.
Published: June 2022

A homogenization‐based multi‐scale model at finite strains is proposed linking the micro‐scale to the macro‐scale level through a second‐gradient constitutive theory. It is suitable for modeling localization and size effects in multi‐phase materials. The macroscopic deformation gradient and second gradient are enforced on a microstructural representative volume element (RVE). The coupling between the scales is defined by means of kinematical insertion and homogenization operators, carefully postulated to ensure kinematical conservation in the scale transition, according to the method of multi‐scale virtual power. From the solution of the micro‐scale equilibrium, the macroscopic stress tensors are derived based on the principle of multi‐scale virtual power. The kinematical constraints at the RVE level are enforced with Lagrange multipliers. A mixed finite element approach is adopted for the numerical solution of the micro and macro second gradient equilibrium problems. It conveniently leads to a formulation where the Lagrange multipliers are the homogenized stresses, and the macroscopic consistent tangent operators for FE2 simulations can be directly derived. The Newton–Raphson scheme is employed to solve the non‐linear systems of equations. The numerical results demonstrate the predictive capability of the proposed model. A systematic analysis of the influence of RVE length and the micro‐constituent size is performed.
A robust, stretchable, transparent, solvent‐resistant, and fluorescent composite: Anchoring carbon dots in polyurethane to obtain new photoluminescent emissions
Authors: Li Na , Wu Sha , Luo Dan , Liang Guangming , Xiao Yulong , Xu Lei , Wang Rui , Xiao Yao , He Ping
Published: June 2022

Carbon dots (CDs) exhibit vivid photoluminescence in solutions, but show no or weak photoluminescent emissions in solid state. In this paper, we prepared a polyurethane (PU)/CD composite with solid‐state fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation by anchoring oil‐soluble CDs in a crosslinked PU matrix through chemical reaction. This polymer composite has high robustness, transmittance, and organic solvent resistance, as well as good stretching ability. Interestingly, since the chemical reaction between the CDs and the PU matrix changes the UV absorption feature of the CDs, the PU/CD composite has blue (near 405 nm), cyan (near 470 nm), and green (near 495 nm) fluorescent emissions, even though the CD solution just possesses green (near 530 nm) fluorescent emissions. This PU/CD composite shows the possibility of application in optoelectronic devices.
Secondary trauma, burnout, and teacher self‐care during COVID19: A mixed‐methods case study
Authors: McMakin Deborah , Ballin Amy , Fullerton Diana
Published: June 2022

Manifestations of teacher burnout have been negatively associated with students' academic achievement, school satisfaction, and perceived teacher support. The 2020–2021 school year presented unique challenges for teachers, who had to find new ways to support their students, their families, and themselves. This study examined teachers' experiences with secondary trauma, burnout, and self‐care during COVID‐19 at one K‐5 trauma‐informed school, the Wellington (pseudonym). We chose a mixed‐methods convergent design utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data to support the findings. Using three measures, the Professional Quality of Life Scale, Mindful Self‐Care Scale, and Teaching Self‐Efficacy Scale, in fall 2020 and spring 2021, we examined 19 faculty and educational staff members' perceptions of and experiences with secondary trauma, burnout, and self‐care. In spring 2021 we interviewed 13 of these teachers. Teachers noted how COVID‐19 brought increased responsibilities at home and school, as well as disrupted self‐care routines. However, data indicate stable compassion satisfaction, low secondary trauma, and average range burnout. Notably, faculty reported self‐care in the form of supportive relationships and sense of purpose. These findings suggest that a trauma‐informed approach may foster a supportive work environment, mitigating burnout.
Optimizing use of written peer support as a supportive resource in cancer: Focus group insights
Authors: Rini Christine , Waltz Margaret , Bovbjerg Katrin , Farrell David , Yanez Betina , Chicaiza Anthony , Hartstein Madison L. , Omar Rahma , Thompson Rebecca , Rowley Scott D. , Stanton Annette L. , Valdimarsdottir Heiddis , Austin Jane , Van Denburg Alyssa N. , Graves Kristi D.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Cancer survivors frequently describe wanting to learn from others who have had similar diagnoses or treatments (peer support). We conducted focus groups to investigate hematopoietic stem cell transplant survivors' attitudes and preferences regarding accessing written peer support through a website. Although written peer support does not allow for interpersonal interactions with peers, it could increase transplant recipients' access to evidence‐based benefits of informational and emotional peer support.

Methods

We conducted four videoconference focus groups with 34 adult transplant survivors who were diverse in their medical and sociodemographic characteristics and geographic location. Discussions were recorded, transcribed, and content analyzed.

Results

Many participants reported need for information about transplant beyond what they received from their healthcare providers. Needs varied across participants, as did preferences for characteristics and timing of information optimally provided through peer support. Participants were enthusiastic about the value of written peer support but emphasized that it should be delivered in a way that accommodates variation in transplant experiences, underscores its trustworthiness, and pairs it with useful psychoeducational content.

Conclusions

Findings provide guidance for making written peer support an accessible, supportive resource for transplant survivors. Future research should evaluate personalized online delivery of written peer support paired with psychoeducational content that enhances its benefits.

Implications for Cancer Survivors: Written peer support delivered online could be a useful, valued resource for transplant survivors.
Elevated serum CEA is associated with liver metastasis and distinctive circulating tumor DNA alterations in patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Bray Alexander W. , Duan Rong , Malalur Pannaga , Drusbosky Leylah M. , Gourdin Theodore S. , Hill Elizabeth G. , Lilly Michael B.
Published: June 2022

Background

Elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is used to identify “treatment emergent” forms of castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) such as aggressive variant prostate cancer (AVPC). However, its individual utility as a prognostic marker and the genetic alterations associated with its expression have not been extensively studied in CRPC.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed clinical outcomes and circulating tumor DNA profiles in 163 patients with CRPC and elevated or normal serum CEA. These same patients were then classified as AVPC or non‐AVPC and compared to determine the uniqueness of CEA‐associated gene alterations.

Results

Patients with elevated CEA demonstrated higher rates of liver metastasis (37.5% vs. 19.1%, p = 0.02) and decreased median overall survival from CRPC diagnosis (28.7 vs. 73.2 mo, p < 0.0001). In addition, patients with elevated CEA were more likely to harbor copy number amplifications (CNAs) in AR, PIK3CA, MYC, BRAF, CDK6, MET, CCNE1, KIT, RAF1, and KRAS. Based on variant allele frequency we also defined “clonal” single‐nucleotide variants (SNVs) thought to be driving disease progression in each patient and found that CEA expression was negatively correlated with clonal AR SNVs and positively correlated with clonal TP53 SNVs. Of these genetic associations, only the increases in clonal TP53 SNVs and KRAS amplifications were recapitulated among patients with AVPC when compared to patients without AVPC.

Conclusions

Together these findings suggest that CEA expression in CRPC is associated with aggressive clinical behavior and gene alterations distinct from those in AVPC.
Improving early phase oncology clinical trial design: A case study
Authors: Phillips Alan J. , Clark Timothy P.
Published: June 2022

This short communication presents a first in human Bayesian Optimal Interval design case study. The study design and associated operating characteristics are discussed, together with study amendments proposed whilst the study was ongoing. Simulations investigating the impact of the amendments on the operating characteristics of the study design are presented. Lessons learnt from the case study, including providing practical advice when designing smarter early phase oncology trials to identify the maximum tolerate dose are also summarised. It is argued that model‐assisted designs are simple to implement, flexible and perform significantly better than the commonly used “3 + 3” design, and thus should become the go to design for statisticians when limited information is known about the dose toxicity curve.