bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the glycemic control, eating habits, and body compositions of people with diabetes mellitus: A retrospective longitudinal observational study
Authors: Sawada Mika , Ohkuma Kanako , Aihara Masakazu , Doi Shunsuke , Sekine Rie , Kaneko Tetsuji , Iimuro Satoshi , Ichi Ikuyo , Usami Satoshi , Ohe Kazuhiko , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Kubota Naoto
Published: November 2022

Aims/Introduction

To evaluate the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the glycemic control, eating habits, and body composition of people with diabetes mellitus; to identify the determinants of worsening glycemic control in people with diabetes mellitus.

Materials and methods

This retrospective, longitudinal observational study was performed in outpatients with diabetes mellitus who visited our hospital between April 2019 and March 2020 (pre‐COVID‐19 period) and continued for follow up from April 2020 to March 2021 (COVID‐19 period). We compared the glycemic control, nutritional intakes, and body composition of people with diabetes mellitus between the two periods. The changes in the HbA1c values (ΔHbA1c) and other study variables were compared between the two periods. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with the increase of HbA1c levels.

Results

A significant increase of HbA1c was observed during the COVID‐19 period. The percent fat mass (FM) also increased, while the percent skeletal muscle mass (SMM) decreased during the COVID‐19 period. After adjustments for age and sex, the ΔBMI (OR:2.33), ΔFM (OR:1.45), and ΔSMM (OR:0.51) were identified as being associated with elevated levels of HbA1c.

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 pandemic had a negative impact on the glycemic control and body composition of people with diabetes mellitus. The increased body weight and FM and decreased SMM observed during the pandemic were associated with poor glycemic control in people with diabetes mellitus.
Changes of HbA1c variability after the switch to a longer‐acting insulin analog in people with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Watanabe Hirotaka , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Katakami Naoto , Shimomura Iichiro
Published: November 2022

This study investigated whether longer‐acting basal analogs (insulin degludec and insulin glargine U300) could reduce visit‐to‐visit hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) variability in patients with type 1 diabetes. Ninety adults with type 1 diabetes for whom the basal insulin was switched to a longer‐acting insulin analog were analyzed retrospectively. The coefficient of variation of HbA1c levels (CV‐HbA1c) during the year before and after the switch was compared. The CV‐HbA1c after the switch was not significantly different from that before the switch (4.39 ± 2.24% vs 4.25 ± 2.07%; P = 0.506). The linear regression model revealed that CV‐HbA1c before the switch was independently associated with the change of CV‐HbA1c (regression coefficient per standard deviation = −0.568, P < 0.001), whereas the other variables were not (all P > 0.05). In conclusion, CV‐HbA1c remained unchanged after the switch on average, but CV‐HbA1c before the switch was associated with the decrease of CV‐HbA1c in individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Evaluation of insecticidal properties of botanicals for sustainable management of sucking pests of horticultural crops
Authors: Prasannakumar Nagalapura Ramakrishnappa , Rao Vala Keshava , Jyothi Nagendraiah , Saroja Sarikonda , Lokesha Ankanahalli Naranayanashetty , Ramkumar Govindaraju
Published: November 2022

Aphids, thrips, whiteflies, mealy bugs and mites could cause significant yield losses in horticultural crops. Many synthetic chemicals highly hazardous to non‐target organisms and the environment are in use in their management. Botanicals are ideal for safe sustainable pest management by keeping synthetic chemical use at a minimum. We studied the insecticidal properties of three botanicals viz., Annona squamosa, Ricinus communis and Sapindus mukorossi seed extracts against sucking pests viz., aphids (Aphis gossypii and Aphis craccivora) on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and bittergourd (Momordica charantia), thrips (Scirtothrips dorsalis) on chilli (Capsicum frutescens), whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) on eggplant (Solanum melongena), mealy bugs (Maconellicoccus hirsutus) on betel vine (Piper betle) and mites (Tetranychus urticae) on eggplant (Solanum melongena) under laboratory conditions. The bioassay showed that A. squamosa seed extract has potent insecticidal properties on all sucking pests, except T. urticae. Though S. mukorossi seed extract exhibited no insecticidal property, had a significant acaricidal property. A. squamosa and S. mukorossi seed extracts will therefore be additional botanicals for use in organic farming for managing the sucking pests effectively.
Serum amyloid A1 recruits neutrophils to the invasive front of T1 colorectal cancers
Authors: Yoshido Ayano , Sudo Gota , Takasawa Akira , Aoki Hironori , Kitajima Hiroshi , Yamamoto Eiichiro , Niinuma Takeshi , Harada Taku , Kubo Toshiyuki , Sasaki Hajime , Ishiguro Kazuya , Yorozu Akira , Kai Masahiro , Katanuma Akio , Yamano Hiro‐o , Osanai Makoto , Nakase Hiroshi , Suzuki Hiromu
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim

The tumor microenvironment plays an essential role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). We recently reported that crosstalk between CRC cells and tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) via serum amyloid A1 (SAA1) promotes invasion by T1 CRCs. In the present study, we aimed to clarify the role of neutrophils in early CRCs.

Methods

Immunohistochemical analysis of CD66b, chemokine CXC motif ligand 8 (CXCL8 or interleukin‐8, IL‐8) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) was performed using primary T1 CRCs (n = 49). The HL‐60 human promyelocytic leukemia cell line and THP‐1 human monocytic leukemia cell line were used to obtain neutrophil‐like and macrophage‐like cells, respectively. Boyden chamber assays were used to analyze cell migration and invasion, and quantitative RT‐PCR was used to analyze gene expression.

Results

Immunohistochemical analysis revealed accumulation of neutrophils at the SAA1‐positive invasive front of T1 CRCs. Experiments using HL‐60 cells suggested that treatment with SAA1 induced neutrophil migration and expression of CXCL8 and MMP‐9 in neutrophils and that neutrophils promote CRC cell migration and invasion. Immunohistochemistry confirmed accumulation of CXCL8‐ or MMP‐9‐positive neutrophils at the SAA1‐positive invasive front of T1 CRCs. Moreover, co‐culture experiments using CRC, THP‐1 and HL‐60 cells suggested that CRC cells activated by macrophages upregulate CXCL8 and MMP‐9 in neutrophils.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that interplay between macrophages and CRC cells leads to recruitment of neutrophils to the invasive front of T1 CRCs and that SAA1 secreted by CRC cells activate neutrophils to promote invasion.
Effects of moxibustion on cognition and activities of daily living in post‐stroke cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Fang , Lyu Zecai , Lin Shaohong , Li Zhuangmiao , Xiu Huoqin
Published: November 2022

Background

Post‐stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) imposes a huge burden on patients and society as a whole; however, unequivocally effective treatments for PSCI are still lacking. Therefore, the exploration of effective and safe non‐pharmacological treatment modalities for PSCI is a key imperative. Moxibustion has been widely used for cognitive rehabilitation; however, there is a paucity of systematic reviews of the available evidence. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effectiveness of moxibustion for treatment of PSCI to provide evidence base for the treatment of PSCI with moxibustion.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of moxibustion in improving cognitive function and activities of daily living (ADLs) in patients with PSCI.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of RCTs.

Participants

Patients with a clinical diagnosis of PSCI.

Review Methods

Relevant studies published in English or Chinese were retrieved from ten databases until December 2021. RCTs that assessed the efficacy of moxibustion on cognitive functioning and ADL in patients with PSCI were included. Two reviewers independently identified the trials and extracted the data. Risk‐of‐bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Cochrane's Review Manager (RevMan 5.4) software was used for the meta‐analysis.

Results

Eighteen RCTs (1290 participants) qualified the inclusion criteria and were included. Compared with the control group, the addition of moxibustion significantly improved the cognitive function, evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) [pooled mean difference (MD): 2.27, 95% CI: 1.98, 2.55, I2 = 22%]. The pooled MD of Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score was 1.85 (95% CI: 1.56, 2.15, I2 = 26%), and the pooled odds ratios (OR) total effective rate was 4.74 (95% CI: 2.55, 8.80, I2 = 0%) (p < 0.05 for all). Moxibustion also significantly improved ADL, assessed using Modified Barthel Index (MBI) (pooled MD = 4.10, 95% CI: 2.10 to 6.10, I2 = 0%) and Barthel Index (pooled MD: 8.63, 95% CI: 7.47, 9.79, I2 = 5%) (p < 0.05 for all).

Conclusions

Compared with control group, the addition of moxibustion significantly improved the cognition and ADL of patients with PSCI.

Clinical Relevance

Nurses can incorporate moxibustion into the rehabilitation nursing of PSCI.
Enabling professional and personal growth among home care nurses through using the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention—An interpretive descriptive study
Authors: Norinder Maria , Axelsson Lena , Årestedt Kristofer , Grande Gunn , Ewing Gail , Alvariza Anette
Published: November 2022

Aim

To explore nurses' experiences of supporting family caregivers in specialised home care while learning to use the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention.

Background

The Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention can provide guidance for discussions with family caregivers in specialised home care concerning their specific support needs. Little attention has been paid to how nurses experience the use of the intervention in their everyday practice.

Design

This longitudinal study adopted an inductive qualitative approach using interpretive description.

Methods

Interviews were conducted at two time points. A total of 22 interviews took place with 12 nurses recruited from six specialised home care services. Data were analysed using interpretive description.

Results

Nurses' everyday clinical practice changed while learning to use the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention, and they experienced professional and personal growth. Their supportive inputs shifted from being reactive towards being more proactive. Their approach changed from taking on great professional responsibility, towards a shared responsibility with family caregivers. The support altered from ad hoc contacts in the hallway, towards scheduled trustful conversations. Nurses were concerned about the amount of time and energy this kind of support might require. They pointed to the importance of holding good nursing skills to conduct this new way of having conversations.

Conclusion

Nurses' everyday clinical practice can be further developed through the use of the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention. Nurses may develop both professionally and personally, increasing their ability to provide person‐centred support.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

With the use of the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool Intervention, nurses can create trusting conversations with family caregivers of patients with life‐threatening illnesses cared for in specialised home care.

Reporting Method

Reporting of the study follows the Consolidated Criteria For Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist (File S1).

Patient or Public Contribution

Participating nurses were involved in discussing the study design.
A novel and high‐throughput approach to assess photosynthetic thermal tolerance of kelp using chlorophyll α fluorometry
Authors: Harris Rosalie J. , Bryant Callum , Coleman Melinda A. , Leigh Andrea , Briceño Verónica F. , Arnold Pieter A. , Nicotra Adrienne B.
Published: November 2022

Foundation seaweed species are experiencing widespread declines and localized extinctions due to increased instability of sea surface temperature. Characterizing temperature thresholds are useful for predicting patterns of change and identifying species most vulnerable to extremes. Existing methods for characterizing seaweed thermal tolerance produce diverse metrics and are often time‐consuming, making comparisons between species and techniques difficult, hindering insight into global patterns of change. Using three kelp species, we adapted a high‐throughput method – previously used in terrestrial plant thermal biology – for use on kelps. This method employs temperature‐dependent fluorescence (T–F0) curves under heating or cooling regimes to determine the critical temperature (Tcrit) of photosystem II (PSII), i.e., the breakpoint between slow and fast rise fluorescence response to changing temperature, enabling rapid assays of photosynthetic thermal tolerance using a standardized metric. This method enables characterization of Tcrit for up to 48 samples per two‐hour assay, demonstrating the capacity of T–F0 curves for high‐throughput assays of thermal tolerance. Temperature‐dependent fluorescence curves and their derived metric, Tcrit, may offer a timely and powerful new method for the field of phycology, enabling characterization and comparison of photosynthetic thermal tolerance of seaweeds across many populations, species, and biomes.
Regulation of osteogenesis in bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells via histone deacetylase 1 and 2 co‐cultured with human gingival fibroblasts and periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Iwata Tomoyuki , Kaneda‐Ikeda Eri , Takahashi Keita , Takeda Katsuhiro , Nagahara Takayoshi , Kajiya Mikihito , Sasaki Shinya , Ishida Shu , Yoshioka Minami , Matsuda Shinji , Ouhara Kazuhisa , Fujita Tsuyoshi , Kurihara Hidemi , Mizuno Noriyoshi
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to determine the regulatory mechanism of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cell (BM‐MSC) differentiation mediated by humoral factors derived from human periodontal ligament (HPL) cells and human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). We analyzed histone deacetylase (HDAC) expression and activity involved in BM‐MSC differentiation and determined their regulatory effects in co‐cultures of BM‐MSCs with HPL cells or HGFs.

Background

BM‐MSCs can differentiate into various cell types and can, thus, be used in periodontal regenerative therapy. However, the mechanism underlying their differentiation remains unclear. Transplanted BM‐MSCs are affected by periodontal cells via direct contact or secretion of humoral factors. Therefore, their activity is regulated by humoral factors derived from HPL cells or HGFs.

Methods

BM‐MSCs were indirectly co‐cultured with HPL cells or HGFs under osteogenic or growth conditions and then analyzed for osteogenesis, HDAC1 and HDAC2 expression and activity, and histone H3 acetylation. BM‐MSCs were treated with trichostatin A, or their HDAC1 or HDAC2 expression was silenced or overexpressed during osteogenesis. Subsequently, they were evaluated for osteogenesis or the effects of HDAC activity.

Results

BM‐MSCs co‐cultured with HPL cells or HGFs showed suppressed osteogenesis, HDAC1 and HDAC2 expression, and HDAC phosphorylation; however, histone H3 acetylation was enhanced. Trichostatin A treatment remarkably suppressed osteogenesis, decreasing HDAC expression and enhancing histone H3 acetylation. HDAC1 and HDAC2 silencing negatively regulated osteogenesis in BM‐MSCs to the same extent as that achieved by indirect co‐culture with HPL cells or HGFs. Conversely, their overexpression positively regulated osteogenesis in BM‐MSCs.

Conclusion

The suppressive effects of HPL cells and HGFs on BM‐MSC osteogenesis were regulated by HDAC expression and histone H3 acetylation to a greater extent than that mediated by HDAC activity. Therefore, regulation of HDAC expression has prospects in clinical applications for effective periodontal regeneration, mainly, bone regeneration.
Influence of social jetlag on daytime sleepiness in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Jin Charley Ximing , Sutherland Kate , Gislason Thorarinn , Thorarinsdottir Elin Helga , Bittencourt Lia , Tufik Sergio , Singh Bhajan , McArdle Nigel , Cistulli Peter , Bin Yu Sun
Published: November 2022

Social jetlag is the discrepancy between socially determined sleep timing on workdays and biologically determined sleep timing on days free of social obligation. Poor circadian timing of sleep may worsen sleep quality and increase daytime sleepiness in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We analysed de‐identified data from 2,061 participants (75.2% male, mean [SD] age 48.6 [13.4] years) who completed Sleep Apnea Global Interdisciplinary Consortium (SAGIC) research questionnaires and underwent polysomnography at 11 international sleep clinic sites. Social jetlag was calculated as the absolute difference in the midpoints of sleep between weekdays and weekends. Daytime sleepiness was assessed using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Linear regression analyses were performed to estimate the association between social jetlag and daytime sleepiness, with consideration of age, sex, body mass index, ethnicity, insomnia, alcohol consumption, and habitual sleep duration as confounders. Of the participants, 61.5% had <1 h of social jetlag, 27.5% had 1 to <2 h, and 11.1% had ≥2 h. Compared to those with <1 h of social jetlag, those with ≥2 h of social jetlag had 2.07 points higher ESS (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77–3.38, p = 0.002), and those with 1 to <2 h of social jetlag had 0.80 points higher ESS (95% CI 0.04–1.55, p = 0.04) after adjustment for potential confounding. Interaction with OSA severity was observed; social jetlag appeared to have the greatest effect on daytime sleepiness in mild OSA. As social jetlag exacerbates daytime sleepiness in OSA, improving sleep timing may be a simple but novel therapeutic target for reducing the impact of OSA.
Prayer in America: A Detailed Analysis of the Various Dimensions of Prayer
Authors: Froese Paul , Uecker Jeremy E.
Published: November 2022

Despite prayer's central role in religious life, quantitative research on prayer typically focuses on its frequency without regard to the total amount, to why, to whom, or for what a person might be praying, nor how people feel when they pray. In this paper, we broaden our understanding of the prayer practices of American adults by focusing on their (1) quantity of prayer, (2) style of prayer, (3) purpose of prayer, (4) prayer target, and (5) emotional state during prayer. Using the Baylor Religion Survey (N = 1248), collected January–March 2021, we present frequencies and findings from factor analyses of key conceptual dimensions of prayer and then indicate how prayer dimensions correlate with each other and vary by basic religion and demographic variables. Our findings provide a detailed picture of these relationships and also provide researchers with best practices in how to measure the various dimensions of prayer in future studies.
Myeloid cell subpopulations compensate each other for Ccr2‐deficiency in glioblastoma
Authors: Bungert Alexander D. , Urbantat Ruth M. , Jelgersma Claudius , Bekele Biniam M. , Mueller Susanne , Mueller Annett , Felsenstein Matthäus , Dusatko Silke , Blank Anne , Ghori Adnan , Boehm‐Sturm Philipp , Koch Stefan P. , Vajkoczy Peter , Brandenburg Susan
Published: November 2022

Aims

Glioblastomas are high‐grade brain tumours that are characterised by the accumulation of brain‐resident microglia and peripheral macrophages. Recruitment of these myeloid cells can be facilitated by CCR2/CCL2 signalling. Besides the well‐known CCR2+ macrophages, we have identified microglia expressing CCR2 in glioma tissues. Thus, we investigated how Ccr2‐deficiency of one of the myeloid cell populations affects the other population and tumour biology.

Methods

We generated four chimeric groups to analyse single and combined Ccr2‐deficiency of microglia and macrophages. On day 21 after tumour cell implantation (GL261), we conducted flow cytometry, immunofluorescence and real‐time polymerase chain reaction analyses. Tumour volume and metabolism were determined by magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Moreover, in vitro studies were performed with primary microglia and bone marrow‐derived macrophages.

Results

We demonstrated reduced infiltration of macrophages and microglia depending on the lack of Ccr2. However, the total number of myeloid cells remained constant except for the animals with dual Ccr2‐knockout. Both microglia and macrophages with Ccr2‐deficiency showed impaired expression of proinflammatory molecules and altered phagocytic activity. Despite the altered immunologic phenotype caused by Ccr2‐deficiency, glioma progression and metabolism were hardly affected. Alterations were detected solely in apoptosis and proliferation of tumours from animals with specific Ccr2‐deficient microglia, whereas vessel stability was increased in mice with Ccr2‐knockout in both cell populations.

Conclusion

These results indicate that microglia and macrophages provide a homoeostatic balance within glioma tissue and compensate for the lack of the corresponding counterpart. Moreover, we identified that the CCR2/CCL2 axis is involved in the immunologic function of microglia and macrophages beyond its relevance for migration.
Neurophysiological mechanisms of gait disturbance in advanced Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Takakusaki Kaoru , Takahashi Mirai , Noguchi Tomohiro , Chiba Ryosuke
Published: November 2022

This review considers pathophysiological mechanisms of posture‐gait disturbances in Parkinson's disease (PD). Clinical studies have shown that posture‐gait disturbance attributes to the dysfunction of the whole neuraxis in addition to the musculoskeletal system. The cerebral cortex, basal ganglia (BG), cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord temporally and spatially integrate and coordinate multisensory feedback and efferent copies of the motor command. Therefore, the extensive repertoire of voluntary movements can be coupled with anticipatory and reactive postural adjustments to provide the framework for supporting and stabilizing the goal‐directed gait activity. Redundancies in the system allow adaptation and compensation through reward‐oriented and error‐based learning processes implemented through the BG and cerebellar pathways, respectively. However, the impairment of these systems in PD may considerably compromise the capacity to adapt and lead to maladaptive changes impairing posture‐gait control. When these impairments occur, the risk of falls can significantly increase, and interventions are required to reduce morbidity. The damage in dopamine (DA) neurons is the primary cause of PD. Insufficient DA supply in the striatum disturbs the operation of intrinsic networks in the BG. This also pathologically increases GABAergic BG output to the cerebral cortex and brainstem, resulting in functional disconnection of other structures from the BG. The disconnection makes PD patients disable to achieve habitually acquired automatized gait control. Moreover, Lewy body degeneration in most brain areas, particularly in cholinergic and other monoaminergic systems vulnerable to neurodegeneration, further disturbs posture‐gait control and alters non‐motor symptoms of PD.
Maize lateral rootless 1 encodes a homolog of the DCAF protein subunit of the CUL4‐based E3 ubiquitin ligase complex
Authors: Baer Marcel , Taramino Graziana , Multani Dilbag , Sakai Hajime , Jiao Shuping , Fengler Kevin , Hochholdinger Frank
Published: November 2022

In maize (Zea mays L.), lateral roots are formed in the differentiation zone of all root types in a multi‐step process. The maize mutant lateral rootless 1 (lrt1) is defective in lateral root formation in primary and seminal roots but not in shoot‐borne roots.

We cloned the lrt1 gene by mapping in combination with BSA‐seq and subsequent validation via CRISPR/Cas9.

The lrt1 gene encodes a 209 kDa homolog of the DDB1‐CUL4‐ASSOCIATED FACTOR (DCAF) subunit of the CUL4‐based E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRL4) complex localized in the nucleus. DDB1‐CUL4‐ASSOCIATED FACTOR proteins are encoded by an evolutionary old gene family already present in nonseed plants. They are adaptors that bind substrate proteins and promote their ubiquitylation, thus typically marking them for subsequent degradation in the 26S proteasome. Gene expression studies demonstrated that lrt1 transcripts are expressed preferentially in the meristematic zone of all root types of maize. Downregulation of the rum1 gene in lrt1 mutants suggests that lrt1 acts upstream of the lateral root regulator rum1.

Our results demonstrate that DCAF proteins play a key role in root‐type‐specific lateral root formation in maize. Together with its role in nitrogen acquisition in nitrogen‐poor soil, lrt1 could be a promising target for maize improvement.
A neural‐related gene risk score for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Tao Zhuo‐ying , Yang Wei‐fa , Zhu Wang‐yong , Wang Lei‐lei , Li Kar Yan , Guan Xin‐yuan , Su Yu‐xiong
Published: November 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to establish a neural‐related gene risk score (NRGRS) for the prediction of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma prognosis and explore its predictive value on the benefit of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

Methods

Based on the transcriptome data of HNSCC patients (n = 546) from The Cancer Genome Atlas database, 37 neural‐related hub genes were identified by weighted gene co‐expression network analysis. Four genes (ITGA5, PYGM, GNG7 and ATP2A3) were identified to construct NRGRS using Lasso‐Cox regression method based on the derivation cohort and validated in the Gene Expression Omnibus cohort (n = 109). The survival analysis was performed to validate the prognostic value of NRGRS and immune characteristics in NRGRS‐defined subgroups were analyzed.

Results

NRGRS‐high patients had a worse overall survival than NRGRS‐low patients. Tumors with high NRGRS were more likely to have high infiltration of naive CD4+ T cells, M0, M2 macrophages and resting mast cells, which illustrated suppressive immunity and less benefit from immunotherapy therapy.

Conclusion

NRGRS strongly correlates with survival and is a promising biomarker to predict immunotherapy benefits for head and neck cancer patients. This study provides evidence for the potential correlation between neural‐related transcriptome alteration and immune activity.
Market reforms and dynamic price discovery in imported natural gas markets in China
Authors: Wang Zuyi , Kim Man‐Keun
Published: November 2022

Employing a time series approach, Vector Error Correction Model, we investigate the price discovery in imported natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and pipeline, markets in China. The liberalisation of domestic natural gas markets and China's pricing reforms have induced systematic structural breaks. The present study explores the dynamic interrelationship between imported LNG and pipeline gas prices. Empirical results show that, before the market reforms in 2014, two markets were not cointegrated implying that both prices move somewhat independently. Over the series of market reforms between 2014 and 2019, both markets have started moving together (cointegrated). From winter 2020, LNG price increased abruptly partly due to LNG supply capacities and both prices are not cointegrated. In addition, empirical results show that LNG market is leading the imported natural gas markets in China and pipeline market is the major price adjuster, that is, a lagging market.
U.S. Citizen Children De Facto Deported to Mexico
Authors: Hamilton Erin R. , Masferrer Claudia , Langer Paola
Published: November 2022

Between 2000 and 2015, the U.S. deported unprecedented numbers of Mexican immigrants. During the same period, the population of U.S.‐born children living in Mexico doubled in size. This study estimates the number of U.S.‐born children who emigrated to Mexico from the United States in order to accompany a deported parent: de facto deported children. The data come from the Mexican National Survey of Demographic Dynamics (ENADID), a national probability sample of households in Mexico collected in 2014 and 2018. About one in six U.S.‐born children living in Mexico in 2014/2018, amounting to an estimated 80,000–100,000 U.S.‐born children, were there because the U.S. government deported one or both of their parents. De facto deported U.S.‐born children are socioeconomically disadvantaged in Mexico compared to U.S.‐born children whose parents migrate to Mexico for other reasons. Women are overrepresented among deported people who bring their U.S.‐born children to Mexico, and when deported mothers bring their children, they are far less likely to do so with a partner than are deported fathers. U.S. policy should consider the interests of U.S. citizen children forced to live abroad when redesigning immigration and child welfare policies.
Contrast‐enhanced voiding urosonography (CEVUS) as a safe alternate means of assessing vesicoureteral reflux in pediatric kidney transplant patients
Authors: Cheng Julie W. , Fernandez Nicolas , Kim Helen H. R. , Tang Elizabeth R. , Ferguson Mark , Nicassio Lauren N. , Dick André A. S. , Smith Jodi M. , Cain Mark P.
Published: November 2022

Background

Although voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) is currently the gold standard in VUR evaluation, there is ionizing radiation exposure. Contrast‐enhanced voiding urosonography (CEVUS) uses ultrasound contrast agents to visualize the urinary tract and has been reported to be safe and effective in VUR evaluation in children. CEVUS application has yet to be specifically described in VUR evaluation in the pediatric kidney transplant population. The purpose of this study was to report the use of CEVUS and VCUG in evaluating and managing VUR in pediatric renal transplant patients.

Methods

Retrospective review was conducted for pediatric kidney transplant patients (18 years and younger) who underwent VCUG or CEVUS to assess for transplant VUR from July 2019 through June 2021. Demographic information, reason for VUR evaluation, fluoroscopy time, and postimaging complications were evaluated. Costs of imaging modalities were also considered.

Results

Eight patients were evaluated for transplant VUR during the study period. Of the 3 patients who underwent VCUG, all 3 had VUR (median grade 3). Median fluoroscopy time was 18 s and dose‐area product was 18.7 uGy*m2. Of the 5 patients who underwent CEVUS, 4 had VUR (median grade 4).

There were no complications for either modality. Based on clinical and radiographic findings, patients were recommended no intervention, behavioral modification, or ureteral reimplantation. The total cost of CEVUS was $800 less than that of VCUG.

Conclusion

CEVUS can provide an alternate means of safely evaluating VUR in kidney transplant patients with similar outcomes, potentially lower costs, and no exposure to ionizing radiation.
Familiar properties and phenomenal properties
Authors: Raleigh Thomas
Published: November 2022

Sometimes when we describe our own sensory experiences, we seem to attribute to experience itself the same sorts of familiar properties—such as shape or colour—as we attribute to everyday physical objects. But how literally should we understand such descriptions? Can there really be phenomenal elements or aspects to an experience which are, for example quite literally square? This paper examines how these questions connect to a wide range of different commitments and theories about the metaphysics of mind. In particular, I consider whether there may be phenomenological reasons to accept or reject the idea that there are elements or aspects of conscious experience itself which instantiate familiar spatial properties. I also explore how some general theses about the nature of empirical properties can motivate different answers to these questions.
Leaf pigments and photosystems stoichiometry underpin photosynthetic efficiency of related C3, C–C4 and C4 grasses under shade
Authors: Sagun Julius Ver , Chow Wah Soon , Ghannoum Oula
Published: November 2022

The quantum yield of photosynthesis (QY, CO2 fixed per light absorbed) depends on the efficiency of light absorption, the coupling between light absorption and electron transport, and the coupling between electron transport and carbon metabolism. QY is generally lower in C3 relative to C4 plants at warm temperatures and differs among the C4 subtypes. We investigated the acclimation to shade of light absorption and electron transport in six representative grasses with C3, C3–C4 and C4 photosynthesis. Plants were grown under full (control) or 25% (shade) sunlight. We measured the in vivo activity and stoichiometry of PSI and PSII, leaf spectral properties and pigment contents, and photosynthetic enzyme activities. Under control growth‐light conditions, C4 species had higher CO2 assimilation rates, which declined to a greater extent relative to the C3 species. Whole leaf PSII/PSI ratios were highest in the C3 species, while QY and cyclic electron flow (CEF) were highest in the C4, NADP‐ME species. Shade significantly reduced leaf PSII/PSI, linear electron flow (LEF) and CEF of most species. Overall, shade reduced leaf absorptance, especially in the green region, as well as carotenoid and chlorophyll contents in C4 more than non‐C4 species. The NAD‐ME species underwent the greatest reduction in leaf absorptance and pigments under shade. In conclusion, shade compromised QY the least in the C3 and the most in the C4‐NAD‐ME species. Different sensitivity to shade was associated with the ability to maintain leaf absorptance and pigments. This is important for maximising light absorption and minimising photoprotection under low light.
Genome‐wide association study reveals structural chromosome variations with phenotypic effects in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Zhao Jiajia , Zheng Xingwei , Qiao Ling , Yang Chenkang , Wu Bangbang , He Ziming , Tang Yuqing , Li Guangrong , Yang Zujun , Zheng Jun , Qi Zengjun
Published: November 2022

Structural chromosome variations (SCVs) are large‐scale genomic variations that can be detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). SCVs have played important roles in the genome evolution of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), but little is known about their genetic effects. In this study, a total of 543 wheat accessions from the Chinese wheat mini‐core collection and the Shanxi Province wheat collection were used for chromosome analysis using oligonucleotide probe multiplex FISH. A total of 139 SCVs including translocations, pericentric inversions, presence/absence variations (PAVs), and copy number variations (CNVs) in heterochromatin were identified at 230 loci. The distribution frequency of SCVs varied between ecological regions and between landraces and modern cultivars. Structural analysis using SCVs as markers clearly divided the landraces and modern cultivars into different groups. There are very clear instances illustrating alien introgression and wide application of foreign germplasms improved the chromosome diversity of Chinese modern wheat cultivars. A genome‐wide association study (GWAS) identified 29 SCVs associated with 12 phenotypic traits, and five (RT4AS•4AL‐1DS/1DL•1DS‐4AL, Mg2A‐3, Mr3B‐10, Mr7B‐13, and Mr4A‐7) of them were further validated using a doubled haploid population and advanced sib‐lines, implying the potential value of these SCVs. Importantly, the number of favored SCVs that were associated with agronomic trait improvement was significantly higher in modern cultivars compared to landraces, indicating positive selection in wheat breeding. This study demonstrates the significant effects of SCVs during wheat breeding and provides an efficient method of mining favored SCVs in wheat and other crops.
Comparison of allocation strategies of convalescent plasma to reduce excess infections and mortality from SARS‐CoV‐2 in a US‐like population
Authors: Kostandova Natalya , Drabo Emmanuel Fulgence , Yenokyan Karine , Wesolowski Amy , Truelove Shaun , Bloch Evan M. , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Vassallo Ralph R. , Bravo Marjorie D. , Casadevall Arturo , Lessler Justin , Lau Bryan
Published: November 2022

Background

While the use of convalescent plasma (CP) in the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic has been inconsistent, CP has the potential to reduce excess morbidity and mortality in future pandemics. Given constraints on CP supply, decisions surrounding the allocation of CP must be made.

Study Design and Methods

Using a discrete‐time stochastic compartmental model, we simulated implementation of four potential allocation strategies: administering CP to individuals in early hospitalization with COVID‐19; administering CP to individuals in outpatient settings; administering CP to hospitalized individuals and administering any remaining CP to outpatient individuals and administering CP in both settings while prioritizing outpatient individuals. We examined the final size of SARS‐CoV‐2 infections, peak and cumulative hospitalizations, and cumulative deaths under each of the allocation scenarios over a 180‐day period. We compared the cost per weighted health benefit under each strategy.

Results

Prioritizing administration to patients in early hospitalization, with remaining plasma administered in outpatient settings, resulted in the highest reduction in mortality, averting on average 15% more COVID‐19 deaths than administering to hospitalized individuals alone (95% CI [11%–18%]). Prioritizing administration to outpatients, with remaining plasma administered to hospitalized individuals, had the highest percentage of hospitalizations averted (22% [21%–23%] higher than administering to hospitalized individuals alone).

Discussion

Convalescent plasma allocation strategy should be determined by the relative priority of averting deaths, infections, or hospitalizations. Under conditions considered, mixed allocation strategies (allocating CP to both outpatient and hospitalized individuals) resulted in a larger percentage of infections and deaths averted than administering CP in a single setting.
Accelerated Deterministic Phonon Transport With Consistent Material Temperature and Intensities
Authors: Whitman Nicholas H. , Palmer Todd S. , Anistratov Dmitriy Y. , Greaney P. Alex
Published: November 2022

We present a method for deterministically solving the frequency and temperature dependent phonon radiative transport (PRT) equation in the single-mode relaxation time (SMRT) approximation in the self-adjoint angular flux (SAAF) form. To handle the nonlinear coupling between the phonon intensities and the material temperature, we apply a linearization approach that is similar to one in thermal radiative transport. This procedure leads to the PRT equation with pseudo-scattering. The method presented includes acceleration of both the inner pseudo-scattering source iterations and outer temperature iteration with a gray diffusion synthetic acceleration (DSA) and Anderson acceleration, respectively. We use the finite-element method to discretize the PRT equation in space and the method of discrete ordinates (SN) for angular discretization. The proposed method is verified by a gray method of manufactured solutions problem and demonstrated on a problem using temperature and direction dependent multigroup data from lithium aluminate (LiAlO2). The iterative performance of the acceleration method in each test is then compared to the unaccelerated method.
Experimental and Theoretical Investigations of a Plate-Fin Water Intercooler Equipped in a Boosted Diesel Engine
Authors: Duong C. Q. , Pham P. X. , Luong T. D.
Published: November 2022

Intercoolers utilized in turbocharged engines are critically essential to efficiently improve the engine volumetric efficiency and therefore the engine specific power. Although boosting the internal combustion engines has been extensively investigated, further studies are required to provide relevant approaches to optimize the heat transfer coefficient. This paper experimentally and theoretically investigates the influence of inlet coolant velocity on heat transfer characteristics of an air-to-water intercooler equipped in a turbocharged diesel engine. This aims to optimize the heat transfer rate from water to air under typical engine operating conditions. The experiment has been conducted using a fully equipped engine testbed. The engine is turbocharged with a plate-fin intercooler. The intercooler is a perpendicular air–water heat transfer system that could be suitable for boosted marine engines or power generators. A simulation model was also developed using the finite volume model in the ansysfluent package. The distributions of inlet and outlet temperature, pressure, and velocity of air and coolant under various inlet water velocity and engine operating conditions are examined. The optimal heat transfer rate from air to water was achieved for this intercooler. The outlet air temperature after the intercooler decreases by about 10 °C, engine thermal efficiency increases by 0.7% approximately, engine power enhances by 2.5%, and the specific fuel consumption decreases by 0.82%. The CFD simulation and experiment model developed in this study for the plate-fin water intercooler could be a useful approach to optimize other intercooler systems. In this study, with a 270 × 270 × 10 mm plate-fin perpendicular air–water intercooler, an optimal cooling water velocity of 1.0 m/s, corresponding with a flowrate of 1780 liter/hr, is achieved.
Rheological Characterization of High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene Oxide—An Extensive Parametric Experimental Study
Authors: Ahmad Hafiz , Boutaous M'hamed , Xin Shihe , Pabiou Hervé , Siginer Dennis A.
Published: November 2022

A comprehensive study of the rheological characterization of the aqueous solutions of polyethylene oxide (PEO) with molecular mass of 4 × 106, 5 × 106, and 8 × 106 g/mol, respectively, named (4 miDA), (5 miDA), and (8 miDA) was conducted. A large batch of samples of 4 miDA PEO with concentrations varying from 0.1% to 3%, representing the range of dilute solutions to very high viscous hydrated gels, were tested. Steady-state shear flow and oscillatory measurements are reported. Cross, Carreau, and Carreau–Yasuda models were used to describe the shear-thinning behavior within the shear rate range (0.001 ≤ γ˙ ≤ 3000 s−1). Experimental findings were validated with published results under the same operating conditions within specified shear rate ranges (0.1 ≤ γ˙ ≤ 100 s−1). We find that the behavior of PEO under shear is highly dependent on the rheometer, material, and operating procedures. Oscillatory measurements were carried out to determine the complex properties of the PEO solutions in the frequency ω and strain amplitude γ ranges of 0.01 ≤ ω ≤ 100 rad/s and 0.01 ≤ γ ≤ 1000%, respectively. Higher magnitudes of dynamic moduli (G/ and G//), zero (η0) and infinite (η∞) shear rate viscosities, resonant frequencies (ωres), linear viscoelastic regions (LVER), and higher relaxation time constants (λ) were observed with increasing concentration and molecular weight. The rheological response of the PEO polymeric solutions was further clarified via Lissajous curves. The aim of this work is to characterize the behavior of the 4 miDA PEO prior to its use in an experimental investigation of the secondary flows of viscoelastic fluids in noncircular channels.
Collapse Limit of Thermally Treated Line Pipe Under Combined External Pressure and Bending Deformation
Authors: Sakimoto Takahiro , Tajika Hisakazu , Handa Tsunehisa , Igi Satoshi , Kondo Joe
Published: November 2022

This study discusses the collapse criteria for thermally treated line pipe and their bending interaction against collapse based on a full-scale test under external pressure with and without bending loading. The critical collapse strain in the pressure bending test was much higher than that estimated by the DNV-ST-F101 standard because it was calculated based on estimating collapse pressures without bending interaction based on specified minimum yield stress (SMYS) of design pipe in the standard. However, the collapse pressures without bending interaction in full-scale test was significantly higher than that of the estimation according to DNV-ST-F101 standard. The effect of the thermal heat cycle simulated anti-corrosion coating heating on line pipe collapse criteria is also discussed based on the change of yield stress of pre-strained and thermally treated material. As the maximum heat cycle temperature increases, the reduction of the compressive yield stress along circumferential direction by the Baushinger effect due to UOE process (U: U-ing, cold forming from a plate; O: O-ing, cold forming from the U shape; E: cold expansion to meet geometric tolerances) becomes small. It is thought that a DNV equation for estimating the critical bending strain to collapse will provide a more accurate estimation of the critical collapse pressure and strain for thermally treated line pipe when the collapse pressure is calculated considering the change of strength parameters due to the tensile pre-strain level and heat cycle temperature.
Dynamic Sensitivities to Fractal Machine Noises in a Mechanical Face Seal
Authors: Green Itzhak
Published: November 2022

Mechanical face seals are wide spread in many applications of powered equipment and turbomachinery. Often machine vibration and noise are unavoidable because of changing conditions which can be persistent and forceful. In critical applications when seals fail, they may have significant or even catastrophic consequences. To ensure the safety of such machinery and its associated mechanical components, machine vibration and noise must be diagnosed and quantified to keep the system’s response within certain limits. This work focuses on the dynamics of a flexibly mounted stator mechanical face seal that is subjected to combinations of broad-band noisy vibrations of the shaft and the housing. In all previous work, the positions of the housing and the shaft have been considered fixed. The current work relaxes that condition, augmenting the equations of motion to incorporate equipment’s noisy vibrations. Noises are expediently produced by the Weierstrass–Mandelbrot (WM) fractal function. A numerical simulation ensues, and the time-domain responses are subject to spectral analyses. Results show that under some design conditions, the seal is largely insensitive to machine vibrations. However, under other conditions, the seal response to exterior machine noise exhibits a rich spectral content that stems from various transient phenomena that include intensified half-frequency whirl, near synchronous response at steady-state, and super-synchronous higher harmonic oscillations caused by face contact.
A Review of State-of-the-Art on Enabling Additive Manufacturing Processes for Precision Medicine
Authors: Awad Atheer , Goyanes Alvaro , Basit Abdul W. , Zidan Ahmed S. , Xu Changxue , Li Wei , Narayan Roger J. , Chen Roland K.
Published: November 2022

Precision medicine is an emerging healthcare delivery approach that considers variability between patients, such as genetic makeups, in contrast to the current one-size-fits-all approach that is designed to treat the average patient. The White House launched the Precision Medicine Initiative in 2015, starting an endeavor to reshape healthcare delivery. To translate the concept of precision medicine from the bench to practice, advanced manufacturing will play an integral part, including the fabrication of personalized drugs and drug delivery devices and drug screening platforms. These products are highly customized and require robust yet flexible manufacturing systems. The advanced manufacturing field has rapidly evolved in the past five years. In this state-of-the-art review, products manufactured for precision medicine will be introduced, followed by a brief review of processing materials and their characteristics. A review on different manufacturing processes applicable to those aforementioned products is provided. The current status of the development of regulatory submission and quality control considerations are also discussed. Finally, this paper presents a future outlook on manufacturing processes used for precision medicine.