bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lung‐derived exosomes regulate the function of mesenchymal stem cells and alleviate phosgene‐induced lung injury via miR‐34c‐3p
Authors: Jiang Zhi‐Feng , Shao Yiru , Zhang Lin , Shen Jie
Published: July 2021

Phosgene may induce acute lung injury (ALI) when a person is exposed to it. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were affirmed to have therapeutic effects on phosgene‐induced ALI. In a previous study, ALI exosomes have been confirmed to promote the proliferation and migration of MSCs. However, the mechanism of this phenomenon is still unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential in the physiological process of cells. In this study, lung‐derived exosomes were isolated from phosgene‐exposed and normal rats, respectively, through ultracentrifugation and cultured MSCs with these exosomes. We found that rno‐miR‐34c‐3p was downregulated in MSCs cocultured with ALI exosomes. MiR‐34c‐3p inhibitor promoted the proliferation and migration of MSCs. Moreover, the dual‐luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that miR‐34c‐3p regulated Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) expression. The miR‐34c‐3p inhibitor also significantly activated the JAK1/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway. In conclusion, ALI exosomes decrease the miR‐34c‐3p expression levels, influencing MSCs via the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway.
How to improve clotting factors depletion in double‐filtration plasmapheresis
Authors: Naciri Bennani Hamza , Marlu Raphael , Terrec Florian , Motte Lionel , Seyve Landry , Chevallier Eloi , Malvezzi Paolo , Jouve Thomas , Rostaing Lionel , Noble Johan
Published: August 2021

Background

Double‐filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP), a selective therapeutic apheresis, can deplete pathogenic antibodies/substances, but also important coagulation factors.

Aim

To determine if the use of a separator filter with different characteristics (CascadefloEC‐50 W) as compared to the reference filter (PlasmafloOP‐08 W) is as efficient in terms of immunoglobulin loss, but can reduce coagulation factor losses and have similar tolerability.

Patients/Methods

This is a single‐center prospective study including 14 patients divided into two groups (7 each): that is, group1 = CascadefloEC‐50 W and group2 = PlasmafloOP‐08 W. We measured immunoglobulins, lipid profiles, blood‐cell counts, hemostasis (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time), coagulation factors, and natural anticoagulants at before and after the first DFPP‐session.

Results

In group 1, the loss of coagulation factors was significantly reduced as compared to group 2 for proteins with a molecular weight of >150 kDa: there was, respectively, an average decrease of 70% vs 31% for fibrinogen (P = 0.004), 66% vs 21% for factor V (P = 2.16e−07), 60% vs 32% for factor XI (P = 6.96e−06), 75% vs 17% for XIII‐antigen (P = 0.0002), and 47% vs 0% for VWF‐antigen(P = 0.02). The decrease in post‐session IgG was, on average, 45% in group 1 and 50% in group 2 (P = 0.13). Those results remained significant even when adjusted to the treated‐plasma volume and the pre‐DFPP factor values.

Conclusion

DFPP, using a CascadefloEC‐50W as a first‐filter, reduces efficiently IgGs similarly to PlasmafloOP‐08W but spares clotting factors.
Effects of 3‐nitrooxypropanol manure fertilizer on soil health and hydraulic properties
Authors: Owens Jennifer , Hao Xiying , Thomas Ben W. , Stoeckli Jessica , Soden Courtney , Acharya Surya , Lupwayi Newton
Published: July 2021

Supplementing beef cattle with 3‐nitrooxypropanol (3‐NOP) decreases enteric methane production, but it is unknown if fertilizing soil with 3‐NOP manure influences soil health. We measured soil health indicators 2 yr after manure application to a bromegrass (Bromus L.) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) mixed crop. Treatments were: composted conventional manure (without supplements); stockpiled conventional manure; composted manure from cattle supplemented with 3‐NOP; stockpiled 3‐NOP manure; composted manure from cattle supplemented with 3‐NOP and monensin (3‐NOP+Mon), a supplement that improves digestion; stockpiled 3‐NOP+Mon manure; inorganic fertilizer (150 kg N ha–1 and 50 kg P ha–1); and an unamended control. Select chemical (K+, Mg2+, Mn+, Zn+, pH, and Olsen‐P), biological (soil organic matter, active C, respiration, and extractable protein), physical (wet aggregate stability, bulk density, total porosity, and macro‐, meso‐, and micro‐porosity), and hydraulic (saturation, field capacity, wilting point, water holding capacity, and hydraulic conductivity) variables were measured. The inclusion of monensin decreased soil Zn+ concentrations by 70% in stockpiled 3‐NOP+Mon compared with stockpiled conventional manure. Active C and protein in composted conventional manure were 37 and 92% higher compared with stockpiled manure, respectively, but did not vary between 3‐NOP treatments. 3‐Nitrooxypropanol did not significantly alter other soil health indicators. Our results suggest that composted and stockpiled 3‐NOP manure can be used as a nutrient source for forage crops without requiring changes to current manure management because it has minimal influence on soil health.
Ecological adaptations of Amazonian fishes acquired during evolution under environmental variations in dissolved oxygen: A review of responses to hypoxia in fishes, featuring the hypoxia‐tolerantAstronotusspp.
Authors: Braz‐Mota Susana , Almeida‐Val Vera M. F.
Published: August 2021

The Amazon Basin presents a dynamic regime of dissolved oxygen (DO) oscillations, which varies among habitats within the basin, including spatially, daily, and seasonally. Fish species inhabiting these environments have developed many physiological adaptations to deal with the frequent and periodic events of low (hypoxia), or no (anoxia) DO in the water. Cichlid fishes, especially the genusAstronotus(A. ocellatusandA. crassipinnis), are hypoxic‐tolerant species that can survive in very low DO levels for long periods, while adults often inhabit places where DO is close to zero. The present review will focus on some metabolic adjustments that Amazonian fish use in response to hypoxic conditions, which include many strategies from behavioral, morphological, physiological, and biochemical strategies. These strategies include ASR (aerial surface respiration), lip expansion, branchial tissue remodeling, increases in glycolytic metabolism with the increase of blood glucose levels, and increases in anaerobic metabolism with increases of plasma lactate levels. Other groups over evolutionary time developed obligate aerial respiration with changes in pharyngeal and swim bladder vascularization as well as the development of a true lung. However, most species are water‐breathing species, such asA. ocellatusandA. crassipinnis, which are detailed in this study because they are used as hypoxia‐tolerant model fish. Herein, we draw together the literature data of the physiological mechanisms by which these species decrease aerobic metabolism and increase anaerobic metabolism to survive hypoxia. This is the first attempt to synthesize the physiological mechanisms of the hypoxia‐tolerantAstronotusspecies.
Sources of anxiety in young rural physicians working alone on remote islands: A qualitative study
Authors: Kuroda Kaku , Kuroda Moe , Ohta Ryuichi
Published: August 2021

Background

We aimed to examine the sources of anxiety for young rural physicians working alone on remote islands.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted on six physicians who worked on remote islands. The Steps for Coding and Theorization method was used to analyze the content of the interviews.

Results

Twelve concepts were generated and categorized into four themes: solo practice, the tight‐knit community, limited human and medical resources, and future career.

Conclusion

Young rural physicians' anxieties in solo practice on a remote island are complicated and include multiple dilemmas. Recognizing these anxieties helps with metacognition and professional development in these individuals.
Individual health behaviours to combat the COVID‐19 pandemic: lessons from HIV socio‐behavioural science
Authors: Haberer Jessica E , van der Straten Ariane , Safren Steven A , Johnson Mallory O , Amico K Rivet , del Rio Carlos , Andrasik Michele , Wilson Ira B , Simoni Jane M
Published: August 2021

Introduction

COVID‐19 parallels HIV in many ways. Socio‐behavioural science has been critical in elucidating the context and factors surrounding individual levels of engagement with known effective prevention and treatment tools for HIV, thus offering important lessons for ongoing efforts to combat the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Discussion

Non‐adherence to effective disease mitigation strategies (e.g. condoms for HIV and masks for COVID‐19) can be attributed in part to prioritizing comfort, convenience and individual autonomy over public health. Importantly, misinformation can fuel denialism and conspiracies that discredit scientific knowledge and motivate nonadherence. These preferences and the extent to which individuals can act on their preferences may be constrained by the structures and culture in which they live. Both HIV and COVID‐19 have been politicized and influenced by evolving recommendations from scientists, clinicians, policymakers and politically motivated organizations. While vaccines are vital for ending both pandemics, their impact will depend on availability and uptake. Four decades of experience with the HIV epidemic have shown that information alone is insufficient to overcome these challenges; interventions must address the underlying, often complex factors that influence human behaviour. This article builds from socio‐behavioural science theory and describes practical and successful approaches to enable and support adherence to prevention and treatment strategies, including vaccine adoption. Key methods include reframing tools to enhance motivation, promoting centralized sources of trusted information, strategic development and messaging with and within key populations (e.g. through social media) and appealing to self‐empowerment, altruism and informed decision making. Orchestrated evidence‐based activism is needed to overcome manipulative politicization, while consistent transparent messaging around scientific discoveries and clinical recommendations are critical for public acceptance and support. Ultimately, the effectiveness of COVID‐19 vaccines will depend on our ability to engender trust in the communities most affected.

Conclusions

Many lessons learned from socio‐behavioural science in the HIV pandemic are applicable to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Individual behaviour must be understood within its interpersonal and societal context to address the current barriers to adherence to disease‐mitigating strategies and promote an effective response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, which is likely to be endured for the foreseeable future.
Three‐Dimensional (3D) Breath‐Hold Zoomed MR Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP): Evaluation of Additive Value to Conventional 3D Navigator Triggering MRCP in Patients With Branch Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms
Authors: Tanabe Masahiro , Onoda Hideko , Higashi Mayumi , Morooka Ryoko , Ihara Kenichiro , Tanabe Masaya , Matsukuma Miwa , Iida Etsushi , Furukawa Matakazu , Ito Katsuyoshi
Published: July 2021

Background

To resolve drawbacks of navigator triggering (NT) three‐dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), several approaches were proposed to obtain 3D MRCP within a single breath‐hold (BH). However, reduced field‐of‐view technique in the phase‐encoding direction combined with two‐dimensional spatially selective radiofrequency excitation pulses has not yet been applied to 3D BH MRCP.

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility and the complementary value of 3D BH zoomed MRCP to conventional 3D NT MRCP in patients with branch duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (BD‐IPMNs) of the pancreas.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 221 patients (116 male and 105 female, median age 73 years) with BD‐IPMNs.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T/3D turbo spin echo

Assessment

MR images were analyzed by three radiologists (R.M., H.O., M.T., with 1, 13, and 17 years of experience) to compare blurring and motion artifacts, background suppression, visualization of main pancreatic duct (MPD), conspicuity of BD‐IPMN, and overall image quality.

Statistical Tests

Wilcoxon‐signed rank, Mann–Whitney U, chi‐squared or Fisher's exact tests (P < 0.05).

Results

Image quality was significantly higher on 3D NT MRCP images than on 3D BH zoomed MRCP (median (interquartile range); background suppression, 4 (4–4) vs. 3 (3–4); visualization of MPD, 4 (3–4) vs. 4 (3–4), conspicuity of BD‐IPMN, 4 (3–4) vs. 3 (3–4); and overall image quality, 3 (3–4) vs. 3 (3‐3)). However, in 32 (14%) patients, 3D NT MRCP showed a score of 1 or 2 in overall image quality. Regarding the conspicuity of BD‐IPMN, a conspicuity score of 1 or 2 was rendered in 31 (14%) patients in 3D NT MRCP group. Conversely, 3D BH zoomed MRCP showed a score of 3 or 4 in 29 (94%) of these 31 patients.

Data Conclusion

3D BH zoomed MRCP plays a complementary role to 3D NT MRCP, and may improve the conspicuity of BD‐IPMNs in patients with irregular breathing pattern.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Development and validation of a simplified risk score for the prediction of critical COVID‐19 illness in newly diagnosed patients
Authors: Werfel Stanislas , Jakob Carolin E. M. , Borgmann Stefan , Schneider Jochen , Spinner Christoph , Schons Maximilian , Hower Martin , Wille Kai , Haselberger Martina , Heuzeroth Hanno , Rüthrich Maria M. , Dolff Sebastian , Kessel Johanna , Heemann Uwe , Vehreschild Jörg J. , Rieg Siegbert , Schmaderer Christoph ,   the LEOSS study group
Published: July 2021

Scores to identify patients at high risk of progression of coronavirus disease (COVID‐19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), may become instrumental for clinical decision‐making and patient management. We used patient data from the multicentre Lean European Open Survey on SARS‐CoV‐2‐Infected Patients (LEOSS) and applied variable selection to develop a simplified scoring system to identify patients at increased risk of critical illness or death. A total of 1946 patients who tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 were included in the initial analysis and assigned to derivation and validation cohorts (n = 1297 and n = 649, respectively). Stability selection from over 100 baseline predictors for the combined endpoint of progression to the critical phase or COVID‐19‐related death enabled the development of a simplified score consisting of five predictors: C‐reactive protein (CRP), age, clinical disease phase (uncomplicated vs. complicated), serum urea, and D‐dimer (abbreviated as CAPS‐D score). This score yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.81 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.77–0.85) in the validation cohort for predicting the combined endpoint within 7 days of diagnosis and 0.81 (95% CI: 0.77–0.85) during full follow‐up. We used an additional prospective cohort of 682 patients, diagnosed largely after the “first wave” of the pandemic to validate the predictive accuracy of the score and observed similar results (AUC for the event within 7 days: 0.83 [95% CI: 0.78–0.87]; for full follow‐up: 0.82 [95% CI: 0.78–0.86]). An easily applicable score to calculate the risk of COVID‐19 progression to critical illness or death was thus established and validated.
Induced sulfur metabolism by sulfur dioxide maintains postharvest quality of ‘Thompson Seedless’ grape through increasing sulfite content
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Wei Jia , Wang Man , Zhang Jian , Wu Bin
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

The commercial preservation of table grapes largely depends on the application of sulfur dioxide (SO2). However, little is known about whether SO2 participates in sulfur metabolism to improve the postharvest quality of table grapes. In this study, the contents of sulfur‐containing compounds, activities of enzymes, and expression of genes involved in sulfur metabolism in table grapes (Vitis vinifera cv. Thompson Seedless) were evaluated.

RESULTS

The results indicated that SO2 treatment maintained the postharvest quality of table grapes. The sulfite content in rachises and berries, but not the sulfate content, increased in response to SO2 treatment. SO2 caused high activities of sulfite reductase, O‐acetylserine (thiol)‐lyase, and γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase, thereby increasing the contents of cysteine, hydrogen sulfide, and glutathione in the rachises and berries. The expression of VvSURTL, VvATPS1, VvATPS2, and VvAPR3 decreased in response to SO2 treatment; however, the transcript levels of VvSiR1 and VvOASTL exhibited the opposite tendency.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicated that the sulfite converted from SO2 participated in sulfur metabolism and maintained the postharvest quality of table grapes by modulating the contents of metabolites, activities of enzymes, and expression of genes related to sulfur metabolism. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
The c.863A>G (p.Glu288Gly) variant of the CTSD gene is not associated with CLN10 disease
Authors: Yang Juan , Ding Xiaoting , Meng Shasha , Cai Jinhua , Zhou Weihui
Published: July 2021

Background

Cathepsin D is a lysosomal aspartic protease encoded by the CTSD gene. It plays important roles in many biological processes. Biallelic loss‐of‐function mutation of CTSD is considered a cause of CLN10 disease. CLN10 is a rare autosomal recessive disorder that is one of 14 types of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs). To date, only a few cases of CLN10 and 12 disease‐causing mutations have been reported worldwide.

Methods

Exome sequencing was performed on a 15‐year‐old girl with pervasive brain developmental disorder. The effects of the identified variants were investigated through multiple functional experiments.

Results

There were no differences in mRNA and protein expression, intracellular localization, maturation, and proteolytic activity between the cells with the mutant CTSD gene and those with the wild‐type CTSD gene.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the c.863A>G (p.Glu288Gly) homozygous variant is not a pathogenic variation, but a benign variant.
Benzodiazepine high‐doses: The need for an accurate definition
Authors: Cloos Jean‐Marc , Lim Cow Christopher Y. S. , Bocquet Valéry
Published: July 2021

Objectives

A clear definition of what we understand of high‐dose misuse or of a ‘markedly increased dose’ (as stated by the DSM‐5) is important and past definitions may be inadequate. The aim of this review is to describe the different definitions used and to test these definitions for their accuracy.

Methods

A narrative PubMed literature review was conducted based on articles published between 1 January 1990 and 31 December 2020 describing benzodiazepines (in MeSH Terms or MeSH Major Topic) and high‐dose (or high‐dosage). Specific definitions were applied to a population sample to show how definitions affect high‐dose benzodiazepine prevalence.

Results

Multiples of an equivalent‐diazepam dose or of the World Health Organization ‘defined daily dosage’ were used more frequently than the overstep of the recommended maximum therapeutic dosage as a cut‐off point.

Conclusion

High‐dose use is rare but the prevalence in the general population varies among studies, mainly due to different definitions, making both clinical and epidemiological comparisons between studies difficult. Defining a high‐dose user as a person who takes at least a higher dose than the maximum usual therapeutic dose over a defined period of time therefore appears to be clinically more consistent.
Sensitivity and resolution improvement for in vivo magnetic resonance current‐density imaging of the human brain
Authors: Göksu Cihan , Scheffler Klaus , Gregersen Fróði , Eroğlu Hasan H. , Heule Rahel , Siebner Hartwig R. , Hanson Lars G. , Thielscher Axel
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Magnetic resonance current‐density imaging (MRCDI) combines MRI with low‐intensity transcranial electrical stimulation (TES; 1‐2 mA) to map current flow in the brain. However, usage of MRCDI is still hampered by low measurement sensitivity and image quality.

Methods

Recently, a multigradient‐echo–based MRCDI approach has been introduced that presently has the best‐documented efficiency. This MRCDI approach has now been advanced in three directions and has been validated by phantom and in vivo experiments. First, the importance of optimum spoiling for brain imaging was verified. Second, the sensitivity and spatial resolution were improved by using acquisition weighting. Third, navigators were added as a quality control measure for tracking physiological noise. Combining these advancements, the optimized MRCDI method was tested by using 1 mA TES for two different injection profiles.

Results

For a session duration of 4:20 min, the new MRCDI method was able to detect TES‐induced magnetic fields at a sensitivity level of 84 picotesla, representing a twofold efficiency increase against our original method. A comparison between measurements and simulations based on personalized head models showed a consistent increase in the coefficient of determination of ΔR2= 0.12 for the current‐induced magnetic fields and ΔR2= 0.22 for the current flow reconstructions. Interestingly, some of the simulations still clearly deviated from the measurements despite the strongly improved measurement quality. This highlights the utility of MRCDI to improve head models for TES simulations.

Conclusion

The achieved sensitivity improvement is an important step from proof‐of‐concept studies toward a broader application of MRCDI in clinical and basic neuroscience research.
Role of electrodiagnosis in nerve transfers for focal neuropathies and brachial plexopathies
Authors: Robinson Lawrence R. , Binhammer Paul
Published: July 2021

Over the past 2 decades, the surgical treatment of brachial plexus and peripheral nerve injuries has advanced considerably. Nerve transfers have become an important surgical tool in addition to nerve repair and grafting. Electrodiagnosis has traditionally played a role in the diagnosis and localization of peripheral nervous system injuries, but a different approach is needed for surgical decision‐making and monitoring recovery. When patients have complete or severe injuries they should be referred to surgical colleagues early after injury, as outcomes are best when nerve transfers are performed within the first 3 to 6 mo after onset. Patients with minimal recovery of voluntary activity are particularly challenging, and the presence of a few motor unit action potentials in these individuals should be interpreted on the basis of timing and evidence of ongoing reinnervation. Evaluation of potential recipient and donor muscles, as well as redundant muscles, for nerve transfers requires an individualized approach to optimize the chances of a successful surgical intervention. Anomalous innervation takes on new importance in these patients. Communication between surgeons and electrodiagnostic medicine specialists (EMSs) is best facilitated by a joint collaborative clinic. Ongoing monitoring of recovery post‐operatively is critical to allow for decision making for continued surgical and rehabilitation treatments. Different electrodiagnostic findings are expected with resolution of neurapraxia, distal axon sprouting, and axonal regrowth. As new surgical techniques become available, EMSs will play an important role in the assessment and treatment of these patients with severe nerve injuries.
Controlling hydrocarbon transport and electron beam induced deposition on single layer graphene: Toward atomic scale synthesis in the scanning transmission electron microscope
Authors: Dyck Ondrej , Lupini Andrew R. , Rack Philip D. , Fowlkes Jason , Jesse Stephen
Published: July 2021

Focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID) is a direct write technique for depositing materials on a support substrate akin to 3D printing with an electron beam (e‐beam). Opportunities exist for merging this existing technique with aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy to achieve molecular‐ or atomic‐level spatial precision. Several demonstrations have been performed using graphene as the support substrate. A common challenge that arises during this process is e‐beam‐induced hydrocarbon deposition, suggesting greater control over the sample environment is needed. Various strategies exist for cleaning graphene in situ. One of the most effective methods is to rapidly heat to high temperatures, for example, 600℃ or higher. While this can produce large areas of what appears to be atomically clean graphene, mobile hydrocarbons can still be present on the surfaces. Here, we show that these hydrocarbons are primarily limited to surface migration and demonstrate an effective method for interrupting the flow using e‐beam deposition to form corralled hydrocarbon regions. This strategy is effective for maintaining atomically clean graphene at high temperatures where hydrocarbon mobility can lead to substantial accumulation of unwanted e‐beam deposition.
Importance of addressing malnutrition in cancer and implementation of a quality improvement project in a gastrointestinal cancer clinic
Authors: Levonyak Nicholas S. , Hodges Mary P. , Haaf Nicole , Brown Timothy J. , Hardy Shelli , Mhoon Verca , Kainthla Radhika , Beg Muhammad Shaalan , Kazmi Syed M.
Published: August 2021

Malnutrition is exceedingly common in cancer patients, with some of the highest rates seen in gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies. Malnutrition and cachexia in cancer patients is associated with worse quality of life, poor treatment tolerance, and increased morbidity and mortality. The importance of early recognition of malnutrition in cancer patients is key, and numerous screening tools have been validated to aid practitioners in this diagnosis. In this paper, we summarize the importance of identifying and managing malnutrition in GI cancer patients as well as its impact on clinical outcomes. We then focus on presenting our own novel quality improvement project that aims to expand access to dietitian services in a GI cancer clinic at a large safety‐net hospital system. Utilizing evidence‐based quality improvement methodologies including the Model for Improvement and Plan‐Do‐Study‐Act cycles, we increased the proportion of GI oncology patients seen by a dietitian from 5% to 20% from October 2018 to July 2019. In particular, we outline the challenges faced in the implementation process of a malnutrition screening tool built into the electronic medical record in an outpatient oncology clinic. We focus on the tool's ability to capture a greater number of patients with malnutrition and its clinical impact.
Obesity as an isolated contraindication to kidney transplantation in the end‐stage renal disease population: A cohort study
Authors: Orandi Babak J. , Lewis Cora E. , MacLennan Paul A. , Qu Haiyan , Mehta Shikha , Kumar Vineeta , Sheikh Saulat S. , Cannon Robert M. , Anderson Douglas J. , Hanaway Michael J. , Reed Rhiannon D. , Killian A. Cozette , Purvis Joshua W. , Terrault Norah A. , Locke Jayme E.
Published: August 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to characterize end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients with obesity as their only contraindication to listing and to quantify wait‐list and transplant access.

Methods

Using the US Renal Data System, a retrospective cohort study of incident dialysis cases (2012 to 2014) was performed. The primary outcomes were time to wait‐listing and time to transplantation.

Results

Of 157,572 dialysis patients not already listed, 39,844 had BMI as their only demonstrable transplant contraindication. They tended to be younger, female, and Black. Compared with patients with BMI < 35, those with BMI 35 to 39.9, 40 to 44.9, and ≥45 were, respectively, 15% (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.85; 95% CI: 0.83‐0.88; p < 0.001), 45% (aHR 0.55; 95% CI: 0.52‐0.57; p < 0.001), and 71% (aHR 0.29; 95% CI: 0.27‐0.31; p < 0.001) less likely to be wait‐listed. Wait‐listed patients with BMI 35 to 39.9 were 24% less likely to achieve transplant (aHR 0.76; 95% CI: 0.72‐0.80; p < 0.0001), BMI 40 to 44.9 were 21% less likely (aHR 0.79; 95% CI: 0.72‐0.86; p < 0.0001), and BMI ≥ 45 were 15% less likely (aHR 0.85; 95% CI: 0.75‐0.95; p = 0.004) compared with patients with BMI < 35.

Conclusions

Obesity was the sole contraindication to wait‐listing for 40,000 dialysis patients. They were less likely to be wait‐listed. For those who were, they had a lower likelihood of transplant. Aggressive weight‐loss interventions may help this population achieve wait‐listing and transplant.
Natural and synthetic functional materials for broad spectrum applications in antimicrobials, antivirals and cosmetics
Authors: Shinde Dasharath B. , Pawar Ranjitsinh , Vitore Jyotsna , Kulkarni Deepak , Musale Shubham , S. Giram Prabhanjan
Published: July 2021

Antimicrobial resistance is the leading cause of burden on healthcare sector. There is scientific challenge of developing new functional material as a platform to prevent and treat viral and microbial infection and cosmetic utility. In material chemistry, there is progress in the development of functional material with advent of nanotechnology with aid of synthetic organic chemistry. The properties and application of material can be changed significantly by modification of the surface functional groups (namely, COOH, HO, NH2OH, SO4,), formation of composite with inorganic material and incorporation of active pharmaceutical agents. In antibacterial application functional material of copper, silver, gold, platinum, tin, iron, cobalt, ruthenium, zinc and pharmaceutical antimicrobial agents found utility in the treatment of bacterial and hospital acquired infection with different resistant strains of microorganisms. In antiviral application many functional materials have been shown to possess remarkable antiviral ability like quantum dots, gold and silver nanoparticles, nanoclusters, carbon dots, graphene oxide and silicon materials. The polymers and dendrimers functionalized with USFDA approved antiviral agent also has potential therapeutic outcomes. Despite their difference in antiviral mechanism and inhibition efficacy, these functional material structures have unique features as potential antiviral candidates. In cosmetic applications functional material based on mica, sericite, fullerene, charcoal, peptides, mineral, lipids, glucocorticoid, nanocellulose hybrid material are extensively used. In this review, we have highlighted early promise and prospects of functional material for cosmetics, antibacterial and antiviral applications, advantages and disadvantages, Patent scenario, current challenges for translation into commercial products.
Recent developments in biodegradable block copolymers
Authors: Tekale Sunil U. , Rottenberg Yakir , Ingle Rajita D. , Domb Abraham J. , Pawar Rajendra P.
Published: July 2021

Block copolymers consist of two or more segments of polymer chains in a typical arrangement through connected covalent bonds. Biodegradable block copolymers have emerged as useful carriers for controlled drug release, tissue engineering, and other biomedical applications due to their ability to form colloidal systems and tunable properties. This review focuses on recent advancements in the synthesis, characterization, and biomedical applications of biodegradable block copolymers.
Effects of hydroxyurea on brain function in children with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Wang Winfred C. , Zou Ping , Hwang Scott N. , Kang Guolian , Ding Juan , Heitzer Andrew M. , Schreiber Jane E. , Helton Kathleen , Hankins Jane S.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) results in numerous adverse effects on the brain, including neurocognitive dysfunction. Hydroxyurea has been utilized extensively for management of SCA, but its effects on brain function have not been established.

Methods

We examined prospectively the effects of 1 year of treatment with hydroxyurea on brain function in children with SCA (HbSS/HbSβ0‐thalassemia) by baseline and exit evaluations, including comprehensive neurocognitive testing, transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD), and brain MRI (silent cerebral infarcts [SCI], gray matter cerebral blood flow [GM‐CBF], and blood oxygen level‐dependent [BOLD] signal from visual stimulation).

Results

Nineteen patients with SCA, mean age 12.4 years (range 7.2–17.8), were evaluated. At baseline, subjects had these mean values: full‐scale IQ (FSIQ) 82.8, TCD velocity 133 cm/s, GM‐CBF 64.4 ml/100 g/min, BOLD signal 2.34% increase, and frequency of SCI 47%. After 1 year of hydroxyurea, there were increases in FSIQ (+2, p = .059) and reading passage comprehension (+4, p = .033), a significant decrease in TCD velocity (−11 cm/s, p = .007), and no significant changes in GM‐CBF, BOLD, or SCI frequency. Hemoglobin F (HbF) was associated with passage comprehension, hemoglobin with lower TCD velocity, and lower GM‐CBF with greater working memory. Higher BOLD signal was associated with higher processing speed and lower TCD velocity with higher math fluency.

Discussion

Improvements in neurocognition and decreased TCD velocity following 1 year of treatment support hydroxyurea use for improving neurocognitive outcomes in SCA. Understanding the mechanisms of benefit, as indicated by relationships of neurocognitive function with HbF, hemoglobin, and CBF, requires further evaluation.
Hydroxyapatite integrated with cellulose acetate/polyetherimide composite membrane for biomedical applications
Authors: Sivasankari Selvam , Kalaivizhi Rajappan , Gowriboy Natesan , Ganesh Munuswamy Ramanujam , Shazia Anjum Musthafa
Published: August 2021

In this study, we describe the experience of a simple, cost‐efficient preparation and characterization of hydroxyapatite (HA) nanomaterial incorporated cellulose acetate/polyetherimide membrane for adsorption and biomedical applications. A simple chemical precipitation technique has been used for the synthesis of HA nanoparticles. The membrane was then developed by incorporating nanoparticles into different compositions of cellulose acetate and polyetherimide by using a phase inversion technique. Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy were used to characterize the structural analysis and morphology of the nanoparticles and polymer membrane. Thermo gravimetric analysis was used to describe thermal characteristics. The contact angle value and wettability test were used to determine the hydrophilicity of the polymer membrane. The images from the scanning electron microscope analysis indicate that the addition of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles causes significant morphological changes in the membrane's surface and cross section. When compared with a control membrane, the presence of inorganic nanoparticles elucidated the impact on thermal and hydrophilic properties. The CA/PEI/HA membrane can be used as an adsorbent material in dye adsorption experiments with model dyes such as Malachite green, Methylene blue as cationic dyes, and Eriochrome black T, Congo red as anionic dyes. In addition, the biocompatibility of the CA/PEI/HA membrane was tested using cell cytotoxicity against THP‐1 human monocytic leukemia cells.
Emotional Barriers to Bowel Screening in Italy: Scale psychometric properties and effects on screening attendance
Authors: Scaglioni Giulia , Cavazza Nicoletta
Published: July 2021

Objective

To assess a three‐factor version of the Emotional Barriers to Bowel Screening (EBBS) scale; analyze the scale's psychometric properties; and investigate the associations of fecal disgust, embarrassment, and fear with colorectal cancer (CRC) screening avoidance.

Methods

Retrospective design: We asked participants to rate negative emotions associated with CRC screenings as well as whether they had ever attended a fecal occult blood test. Sample: 268 Italian adults aged 45−74 years. Measures: negative emotions, screening knowledge, CRC risk perception, demographic and background data, and hypothetical medical help‐seeking. Analyses: Confirmatory factor analyses, correlations, logistic regressions.

Results

The EBBS scale is a multidimensional instrument and, at least where fecal tests are of interest, can be used without the insertion disgust subscale. The analyzed negative emotions were negatively correlated with screening attendance and positively correlated with intention to delay seeking medical help. However, logistic regression models showed that, of the three analyzed emotions, fear about outcome was the only significant predictor of screening behavior and delaying medical care.

Conclusions

Further studies can adopt the version of the EBBS scale that is most suitable for their research contexts. Interventions must be designed to reassure patients.
Effects of ZSM‐5 Treatment on the Properties of Gd2Ti2O7‐nHZSM‐5 Composites for RBR‐X3B Degradation
Authors: Li Xikun , Yang Jiao , Zhang Wenjie
Published: August 2021

Gd2Ti2O7‐nHZSM‐5 (GTO‐nZ) composites are prepared using HZSM‐5 zeolite via a sol–gel route. The hydrochloric acid concentration in zeolite treatment can affect the properties of GTO‐nZ composites. GTO has a typical pyrochlore phase Gd2Ti2O7, and HZSM‐5 zeolite does not have noticeable influences on GTO crystal formation. The bandgap energies are 3.77, 3.73, 3.67, 3.65, and 3.64 eV for GTO‐nZ composites when hydrochloric acid concentration is 0, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5, and 1 mol L−1, respectively. The isotherms of GTO‐nZ composites are classified as IUPAC type IV of mesoporous material, while the adsorbed nitrogen quantities on GTO‐nZ composites are much larger than the nitrogen quantity on GTO. The small amount of HZSM‐5 zeolite can improve the porosity of GTO in the composites, and the surface area of GTO in the composites is significantly enlarged. The hydrochloric acid concentration has an apparent influence on the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of GTO‐nZ composites. RBR‐X3B (Reactive Brilliant Red‐X3B) degradation efficiency is enhanced with increasing hydrochloric acid concentration to the maximum value at 0.3 mol L−1. The reaction rate constants are 2.03 × 10−2, 9.1 × 10−3, and 3.1 × 10−3 min−1 for GTO‐0.3Z, GTO‐0Z, and GTO, respectively.
Molecular dynamics simulations reveal the disruption mechanism of a 2,4‐thiazolidinedione derivative C30 against tau hexapeptide (PHF6) oligomer
Authors: Liu Hongli , Zhong Haiyang , Liu Huanxiang , Yao Xiaojun
Published: July 2021

Derivatives of 2,4‐thiazolidinedione have been reported to inhibit the aggregation of tau protein, in which compound 30 (C30) not only inhibit 80% of paired helical filament 6 (PHF6) aggregation, but also inhibit K18 and full‐length tau aggregation. However, its inhibitory mechanism is unclear. In this study, to investigate the effect of C30 on tau protein, all‐atom molecular dynamics simulation was performed on the PHF6 oligomer with and without C30. The results show that C30 can cause significant conformational changes in the PHF6 oligomer. The nematic order parameter P2 and secondary structure analyses show that C30 destroys the ordered structure of PHF6 oligomer, reduces the content of β‐sheet structure, and transforms β‐sheet into random coil structure. By clustering analysis, it was found that C30 has four possible binding sites on the PFH6 oligomer, and the binding ability order is S1 > S2 > S4 > S3. Following a more in‐depth analyses of each site, it was determined that the S1 site is the most possible binding site mainly located between layers of L1 and L3. The hydrophobic interaction is the driving force for the binding of C30 to PHF6 oligomer. In addition, L1P4_Y310, L1P5_Y310, L3P1_V309, and L3P2_V309 are key residues for C30 binding to oligomer. Moreover, π‐π interaction formed by L1P4_Y310 and L1P5_Y310 with C30 and the hydrogen bonding interaction formed by C30 with L3P3_Q307 are beneficial to the combination of C30 and oligomer. The fully understanding disrupt the mechanism of 2,4‐thiazolidinedione derivative on PHF6 oligomer and the identification of binding sites will help design and discover new AD inhibitors in the future.
Effects of sevoflurane and adenosine receptor antagonist on the sugammadex‐induced recovery from rocuronium‐induced neuromuscular blockade in rodent phrenic nerve–hemidiaphragm tissue specimens
Authors: Kim Yong Beom , Choi Jae‐Moon , Park Chungon , Choi Hey‐Ran , In Junyong , Yang Hong‐Seuk
Published: August 2021

Sevoflurane affects on the A1 receptor in the central nervous system and potentiates the action of neuromuscular blocking agents. In the present study, we investigated whether sevoflurane (SEVO) has the ability to potentiate the neuromuscular blocking effect of rocuronium and if the specific antagonist of adenosine receptor (SLV320) can reverse this effect. In this study, phrenic nerve–hemidiaphragm tissue specimens were obtained from 40 Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. The specimens were immersed in an organ bath filled with Krebs buffer and stimulated by a train‐of‐four (TOF) pattern using indirect supramaximal stimulation at 20 s intervals. The specimens were randomly allocated to control, 2‐chloroadenosine (CADO), SEVO, or SLV320 + SEVO groups. In the CADO and SLV320 + SEVO groups, CADO and SLV320 were added to the organ bath from the start to a concentration of 10 μM and 10 nM, respectively. We then proceeded with rocuronium‐induced blockade of >95% depression of the first twitch tension of TOF (T1) and TOF ratio (TOFR). In the SEVO and SLV320 + SEVO groups, SEVO was added to the Krebs buffer solution to concentration of 400–500 μM for 10 min. Sugammadex‐induced T1 and TOFR recovery was monitored for 30 min until >95% of T1 and >0.9 of TOFR were confirmed, and the recovery pattern was compared by plotting these data. T1 recovery in the SEVO and CADO groups was significantly delayed compared with the control and SLV320 + SEVO groups (p < .05). In conclusion, sevoflurane affects on the A1 receptor at the neuromuscular junction and delays sugammadex‐induced recovery from neuromuscular blockade.
Spontaneous and Induced Ferroelectricity in the BiFe1−xScxO3 Perovskite Ceramics
Authors: Shvartsman Vladimir V. , Khalyavin Dmitry D. , Olekhnovich Nikolai M. , Pushkarev Anatoli V. , Radyush Yuri V. , Salak Andrei N.
Published: August 2021

High‐pressure synthesis method allows obtaining single‐phase perovskite BiFe1−x
Sc
x
O3 ceramics in the entire concentration range. As‐prepared compositions with x from 0.30 to 0.55 have the antipolar orthorhombic Pnma structure but can be irreversible converted into the polar rhombohedral R3c or the polar orthorhombic Ima2 phase via annealing at ambient pressure. Microstructure defects and large conductivity of the high‐pressure‐synthesized ceramics make it difficult to study and even verify their ferroelectric properties. These obstacles can be overcome using piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) addressing ferroelectric behavior inside single grains. Herein, the PFM study of the BiFe1−x
Sc
x
O3 ceramics (0.30 ≤ x ≤ 0.50) is reported. The annealed samples show a strong PFM contrast. Switching of domain polarity by an electric field confirms the ferroelectric nature of these samples. The as‐prepared BiFe0.5Sc0.5O3 ceramics demonstrate no piezoresponse in accordance with the antipolar character of the Pnma phase. However, application of a strong enough electric field induces irreversible transition to the ferroelectric state. The as‐prepared BiFe0.7Sc0.3O3 ceramics show coexistence of ferroelectric and antiferroelectric grains without poling. It is assumed that mechanical stress caused by the sample polishing can be also a driving force of phase transformation in these materials alongside temperature and external electric field.
Parameter‐dependent observer‐based feedback compensator design of a space‐time‐varying PDE with application to a class of steelmaking processes
Authors: Wang Jun‐Wei , Yang Yang
Published: August 2021

This article deals with the problem of observer‐based feedback compensator design for a linear reaction–advection–diffusion equation subject to a time‐varying diffusion coefficient, a time‐varying advection coefficient, and a space‐time‐varying reaction coefficient. To solve such a problem, these coefficients are written in parametric forms under their boundedness assumptions. By considering these parametric forms of the coefficients and the distribution functions for control actuation and non‐collocated measurement, a parameter‐dependent observer‐based feedback compensator is constructed such that the resulting closed‐loop coupled equation exponentially converges to a bounded set of the equilibrium profile in the spatial norm. With the aid of the Lyapunov technique and variants of Poincaré–Wirtinger's inequality, a sufficient condition for the existence of such feedback compensator is presented in the form of convex constraints. Finally, extensive simulation results for a numerical example and a class of steelmaking processes are presented to support the proposed design method. For the collocated measurement case, both theoretical and simulation results show that the proposed observer‐based feedback compensator can provide a better control performance than the static feedback compensator in the presence of measurement disturbances.
Determinants of Black families’ access to a community‐based STEM program: A latent class analysis
Authors: King Natalie S. , Collier Zachary , Johnson Bridgette G. , Acosta Melanie , Southwell Charisse N.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study was to uncover determinants of Black families’ access to STEM enrichment, specifically focusing on I AM STEM—a community‐based program. Our research examined the association between class membership and how families learned about I AM STEM, to provide a more nuanced understanding about how family dynamics influence Black parents’ access to educational enrichment programs for their children. This study draws from Bronfenbrenner's (1979) ecological systems theory (EST) and Coleman's (1988) definition of social capital to explore the ways in which Black families across socioeconomic backgrounds access and use the community‐based STEM program. A latent class analysis was employed to identify determinants based on specific predictors (e.g., parents’ highest level of education, free/reduced lunch status, and grade level of registered children). The latent class model extracted three distinct classes. Our findings revealed that all parents were likely to enroll their elementary‐aged children, but the likelihood of enrolling middle or high school children increased with parents who were college educated. This study also uncovered that regardless of income or neighborhood lines, Black parents of all social classes, and family dynamics learned about the program through information sharing. Furthermore, the program's location increased access to informal STEM learning opportunities for parents who experienced poverty, while the program's curriculum attracted middle‐class Black families who were not residents of that particular community. Collectively, I AM STEM promoted educational and economic inclusion, which broadened participation in STEM programming.