bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal low body mass index is a risk factor for fetal ductal constriction following indomethacin use among women undergoing fetal repair of spina bifida
Authors: Nassr Ahmed A. , Furtun Betul Y. , Sanz Cortes Magdalena , Erfani Hadi , Whitehead William E. , Donado Mayel Y. , Olutoye Olutoyin , Velez Mario P. , Espinoza Jimmy , Belfort Michael A. , Shamshirsaz Alireza A.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

The objectives were to determine the prevalence of and to identify risk factors associated with constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus (DA) following perioperative indomethacin use for fetal myelomeningocele (MMC) repair.

Study design

A retrospective chart review study included 100 consecutive fetuses who underwent fetal MMC repair between 2011 and 2018. All patients had fetal echocardiography (FE) on postoperative day (POD)#1 and 2 to detect constriction of the DA. All patients received indomethacin for tocolysis using a standardized protocol. Multivariate regression analysis was carried out to identify the predictors for fetal ductal constriction.

Results

Eighty patients met our study eligibility criteria. Median gestational age at time of surgery was 25 (24‐25) weeks. Constriction of the DA was detected in 14 fetuses (17.5%). In five fetuses, this was observed on POD# 1, in seven on POD# 2, and in two on both days. The only independent risk factor for predicting DA constriction was maternal body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m2 (P = .002).

Conclusion

Indomethacin therapy following fetal MMC surgery requires careful daily FE surveillance. The association of DA constriction and low BMI suggests that BMI‐based dosing of indomethacin may be recommended for perioperative tocolysis in fetal MMC surgery.
Preparation and Characterization of Thermal and pH Dual Sensitive Hydrogel Based on 1,3‐Dipole Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Wei Hongliang , Liu Zijun , Zhu Hongzheng , He Juan , Li Jingjing
Published: January 2020

In this study, thermal and pH dual sensitive hydrogels were prepared via Cu‐free 1,3‐dipole cycloaddition between two copolymers which were modified by azide and maleimide functional groups, respectively. First, the thermally sensitive terpolymers were fabricated via conventional free‐radical polymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide, hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMA). Then, polymeric dipolarophiles were synthesized via the esterification between the above terpolymers and N‐maleoyl alanine. Similarly, the pH‐sensitive terpolymers were also fabricated via conventional free‐radical polymerization of 4‐vinylpyridine, HEMA, and DMA, and then, polymeric dipoles were acquired via the decoration of the as‐prepared terpolymers with 2‐azidoacetic acid. Afterward, the smart hydrogels were fabricated via the aqueous 1,3‐dipole cycloaddition reaction between the as‐prepared polymeric dipolarophiles and dipoles without the use of catalysts. The results of swelling measurements confirm that the hydrogels possessed thermal and pH dual sensitivity. Moreover, the investigation of the behavior of oscillatory swelling shrinking indicates their sensitivity to temperature and pH was reversible and repeatable, which is of great significance for the repeated use of the prepared hydrogels. The proposed strategy demonstrates a great application prospects in the preparation of hydrogels as there were no catalysts and organic solvents employed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:917–924, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers
Clinical Perspectives on Headache After Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Hoffman Jeanne M. , Lucas Sylvia , Dikmen Sureyya , Temkin Nancy
Published: January 2020

Background

Headache after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is frequent and persistent over the first year after injury. Providers may need to focus on different symptom presentations depending on their patient's TBI severity.

Objective

We evaluated headache symptoms in patients with moderate‐to‐severe TBI compared to patients with mild TBI and examined our data from two perspectives: (1) from providers who treat individuals after TBI and manage multiple postinjury symptoms including headache, and (2) from headache specialists who see individuals after TBI to manage headache.

Design

Prospective enrollment of individuals after TBI with telephone follow‐up at 1‐year postinjury.

Setting

Enrollment from hospital and then community followup.

Participants

Three hundred forty‐six individuals with moderate‐to‐severe TBI were enrolled during acute inpatient rehabilitation across seven TBI Model System Centers. One hundred eighty‐nine individuals with mild TBI were enrolled within 1 week of injury at a single center.

Intervention

None.

Main Outcome Measurements

Headache frequency, headache type, pain intensity, Headache Impact Test‐6 (HIT‐6), and depressive symptoms measured 1 year after injury.

Results

Headache prevalence is high in both TBI groups. TBI providers are more likely to evaluate and treat headache from individuals sustaining a mild TBI versus moderate‐to‐severe TBI. Patients with mild TBI are most likely to report tension‐type headache followed by migraine‐type headache. The migraine‐type headache has higher impact (HIT‐6) and greater pain intensity. Headache specialists may encounter patients with moderate‐to‐severe TBI who report more frequent headache and higher average pain scores compared to patients with mild TBI. The severity of TBI was unrelated to depressive symptoms 1 year after injury, but patients with headache were significantly more likely to have higher scores.

Conclusions

TBI providers versus headache specialists should be aware of differences in patient symptom presentation to their respective clinics. Ongoing assessment of headache and depression over time is important following TBI of any severity.
Evidence of alloy formation in CoNi nanoparticles synthesized by nanosecond‐pulsed discharges in liquid nitrogen
Authors: Trad Mahmoud , Nominé Alexandre , Noël Cédric , Ghanbaja Jaafar , Tabbal Malek , Belmonte Thierry
Published: January 2020

Producing alloy nanoparticles by discharge‐assisted erosion of electrodes immersed in liquid nitrogen is possible in the cobalt–nickel system. Several electrode configurations are tested. When one nickel electrode faces one cobalt electrode, CoxNi1−x alloy nanoparticles are produced with nickel cubic nanoparticles and cobalt round‐shaped faceted nanoparticles. The possibility of forming alloys is attributed to a sufficiently long residence time of both parent clusters within the discharge and to their total miscibility. It is also possible to form submicrometric CoxNi1−x alloy particles when discharges between cobalt electrodes are run in liquid nitrogen loaded with nickel nanoparticles produced in a former step. Starting by discharges between Co electrodes before Ni electrodes do not produce any alloy. The two mechanisms responsible for alloy synthesis are discussed.
An assessment model of fire resources demand for storage of hazardous chemicals
Authors: Zhou Ning , Xu Beier , Li Xue , Cui Ruqing , Liu Xuanya , Yuan Xiongjun , Zhao Huijun
Published: January 2020

This work is to address the scientific assessment methodology of fire protection power and theoretical fire resource requirements for hazardous chemicals storage fires. The evolution chain of accident, accident risk and its impact on the surrounding area of hazardous chemicals storage fire and explosion accidents are analyzed. According to different storage modes of hazardous chemical substances, the fuzzy comprehensive assessment method was used to construct a secondary evaluation index group for fire resource requirements. The judgment matrix is established to evaluate the index weight of each influence factor of foam extinguishing efficiency based on the analytic hierarchy process. A forecasting model of fire resource demand has been constructed. The principal results are that the coefficient of foam dosage of storage rank, warehouse and stock dump in actual combat is 3.3, 3.2949, and 3.3147, respectively. Combined with the fire geographic information system, fire equipment can be allocated more reasonably. This can maximize the fire extinguishing performance of the equipment and improve the firefighting of hazardous chemicals scientifically and effectively. The research results are of great significance for the scientific prediction of the fire protection resources requirements of hazardous chemicals storage fires.
“I Post, therefore I Become #cosmopolitan”: The materiality of online representations of study abroad in China
Authors: Lee Kris Hyesoo
Published: January 2020

Drawing on social media content created by Western‐situated transnational students as well as two international branch campuses in China, this article scrutinises the textual and visual rhetoric made available by transnational students and international branch campuses for public consumption. Particularly, it describes the ways in which intranational branch campuses and transnational students co‐produce, perform, and curate cosmopolitan sensibilities through social media. Theoretically, this paper proposes the analytical lens of materiality as one way to understand the narrative strategies employed by international branch campuses to construct China as a unique and desirable destination for international education, and by transnational students from North America and European countries to exhibit cosmopolitan practices within domains of their everyday life in China.
Demystifying and unravelling the molecular structure of the biopolymer sporopollenin
Authors: Mikhael Abanoub , Jurcic Kristina , Schneider Celine , Karr David , Fisher Gregory L. , Fridgen Travis D. , Diego‐Taboada Alberto , Georghiou Paris E. , Mackenzie Grahame , Banoub Joseph
Published: January 2020

Rationale

We report the unsolved molecular structure of the complex biopolymer sporopollenin exine extracted from Lycopodium clavatum pollen grains.

Methods

TOF‐SIMS and CID‐MS/MS, MALDI‐TOF‐MS and CID‐TOF/TOF‐MS/MS were used for the analysis of this complex biopolymer sporopollenin exine extracted from Lycopodium clavatum pollen grains. Solid‐state 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR, 2D 1H‐1H NOESY, Rotor‐synchronized 13C{1H} HSQC, and 13C{1H} multi CP‐MAS NMR experiments were used to confirm the structural assigments revealed by MS and MS/MS studies. Finally, high‐resolution XPS was used to check for the presence of aromatic components in sporopollenin.

Results

The combined MS and NMR analyses showed that sporopollenin contained poly(hydroxy acid) dendrimer‐like networks with glycerol as a core unit, which accounted for the sporopollenin empirical formula. In addition, these analyses showed that the hydroxy acid monomers forming this network contained a β‐diketone moiety. Moreover, MALDI‐TOF‐MS and MS/MS allowed us to identify a unique macrocyclic oligomeric unit composed of polyhydroxylated tetraketide‐like monomers. Lastly, high‐resolution X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HR‐XPS) showed the absence of aromaticity in sporopollenin.

Conclusions

We report for the first time the two main building units that form the Lycopodium clavatum sporopollenin exine. The first building unit is a macrocyclic oligomer and/or polymer composed of polyhydroxylated tetraketide‐like monomeric units, which represents the main rigid backbone of the sporopollenin biopolymer. The second building unit is the poly(hydroxy acid) network in which the hydroxyl end groups can be covalently attached by ether links to the hydroxylated macrocyclic backbone to form the sporopollenin biopolymer, a spherical dendrimer. Such spherical dendrimers are a typical type of microcapsule that have been used for drug delivery applications. Finally, HR‐XPS indicated the total absence of aromaticity in the sporopollenin exine.
Analysis of heterogeneous satellite networks with multi‐user detectors
Authors: Sirigina Rajendra Prasad , AS Madhukumar , Bowyer Mark
Published: January 2020

In this work, a heterogeneous network, where both terrestrial‐ and multiple spot beam‐based geosynchronous satellite networks use the same sub‐channel, is investigated. Moreover, the satellite uses same sub‐channel to serve users across all spot beams. Apart from inter spot beam interference, satellite users also receive strong interfering signal from the terrestrial base station. The satellite receivers manage the inter system interference (ie, interference from terrestrial network) while the inter spot beam interference is mitigated through precoding at the gateway. To be specific, the following interference‐aware detectors are used to mitigate the inter system interference: successive interference canceller (SIC) and joint decoder (JD). The proposed decoders are shown to achieve better data rate and bit error rate (BER) than the interference ignorant decoder at moderate to strong interference levels. Although JD and SIC achieve same sum rate at moderate and strong interference levels, JD is shown to allow the terrestrial user achieve higher data rate than SIC.
Scar Tissue‐Targeting Polymer Micelle for Spinal Cord Injury Treatment
Authors: Wang Jingkai , Li Dongdong , Liang Chengzhen , Wang Chenggui , Zhou Xiaopeng , Ying Liwei , Tao Yiqing , Xu Hongxia , Shu Jiawei , Huang Xianpeng , Gong Zhe , Xia Kaishun , Li Fangcai , Chen Qixin , Tang Jianbin , Shen Youqing
Published: January 2020

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating disorder, leading to permanent motor and sensory deficit. Despite recent advances in neurosciences, the treatment efficacy on SCI patients remains unsatisfactory, mainly due to the poor accumulation, short retention, and lack of controlled release of therapeutics in lesion tissue. Herein, an injured spinal cord targeting prodrug polymer micelle is built. An esterase‐responsive bond is used to link apocynin (APO) monomer, because of the enhanced esterase activity found in microglia cells after activation, which ensures a controlled degradation of APO prodrug (Allyloxypolyethyleneglycol‐b‐poly [2‐(((4‐acetyl‐2‐methoxyphenoxy)carbonyl)oxy)ethyl methacrylate], APEG‐PAPO or PAPO) by activated microglia cells. A scar tissue‐homing peptide (cysteine‐alanine‐glutamine‐lysine, CAQK) is introduced to the PAPO to endow the polymer micelle the lesion tissue‐targeting ability. As a result, this CAQK‐modified prodrug micelle (cPAM) exhibits an improved accumulation and prolonged retention in lesion tissue compared to the control micelle. The cPAM also leads to superior tissue protection and sustained motor function recovery than the control groups in a mouse model of SCI. In conclusion, the cPAM induces an effective treatment of SCI by the lesion tissue specific delivery of the prodrug polymer via its robust scar binding effect, making the scar tissue a drug releasing platform for sustained treatment of SCI.
Hydrophilic Ultralong Organic Nanophosphors
Authors: You Yongqiang , Huang Kaiwei , Liu Xiaojia , Pan Xi , Zhi Jiahuan , He Qianjun , Shi Huifang , An Zhongfu , Ma Xing , Huang Wei
Published: January 2020

Ultralong organic phosphorescence (UOP), enabling of persistent luminescence after removal of external excitation light, shows great promise in biological applications such as bioimaging in virtue of antibackground fluorescence interference. Despite of good biocompatibility and outstanding phosphorescent properties, most current organic phosphors are hydrophobic with poor water solubility in the form of bulk crystal with large size, limiting their potential in the biological field. Here, a facile and versatile approach is provided to obtain nanoscale hydrophilic phosphorescent phosphors (HPPs) by physically loading ultralong organic phosphors into hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles. The as‐prepared HPPs can be well suspended in aqueous solution and effectively internalized by HeLa cells with very low cytotoxicity. Such HPPs are successfully applied for afterglow bioimaging in living nude mice with a very high signal‐to‐noise ratio up to 31. The current study not only provides a universal strategy to realize UOP in aqueous media but also demonstrates their great potential for biomedical purposes as an advanced imaging indicator with long‐lived emission lifetime.
Impact of the protein corona on nanomaterial immune response and targeting ability
Authors: Digiacomo Luca , Pozzi Daniela , Palchetti Sara , Zingoni Alessandra , Caracciolo Giulio
Published: January 2020

Over the last decade nanomaterials have had a major impact on human health for the early detection and treatment of many diseases. The future success of clinically translatable nanomaterials lies in the combination of several functionalities to realize a personalized medical experience for patients. To maintain promises, concerns arising from toxic potential and off‐target accumulation of nanomaterials must be addressed first. Upon introduction to a complex biological system (e.g., following systemic administration), nanomaterials interact with all the encountered biomolecules and form the protein corona, a complex coating of plasma proteins that provides them with a totally new biological identity. As the protein corona controls the nanomaterial behavior in vivo, a precise knowledge of the relationship between biological identity and physiological response is needed but not yet achieved. Based on impressive progress made thus far, this review critically discusses how the protein corona activates immune response and influences the targeted delivery of nanomaterials. Furthermore, we comment on emerging strategies to manipulate protein binding in order to promote formation of designer artificial coronas and achieve a desired therapeutic outcome. We conclude by debating challenges that must be overcome to obtain widespread clinical adoption of nanomaterials.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Cells at the Nanoscale

Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies
Superconformal blocks: general theory
Authors: Burić Ilija , Schomerus Volker , Sobko Evgeny
Published: January 2020

Abstract

In this work we launch a systematic theory of superconformal blocks for four­point functions of arbitrary supermultiplets. Our results apply to a large class of superconformal field theories including 4-dimensional models with any number

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

of supersymmetries. The central new ingredient is a universal construction of the relevant Casimir differential equations. In order to find these equations, we model superconformal blocks as functions on the supergroup and pick a distinguished set of coordinates. The latter are chosen so that the superconformal Casimir operator can be written as a perturbation of the Casimir operator for spinning bosonic blocks by a fermionic (nilpotent) term. Solu­ tions to the associated eigenvalue problem can be obtained through a quantum mechanical perturbation theory that truncates at some finite order so that all results are exact. We illustrate the general theory at the example of d = 1 dimensional theories with

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 supersymmetry for which we recover known superblocks. The paper concludes with an outlook to 4-dimensional blocks with

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 supersymmetry.
Strongly interacting dark sectors in the early Universe and at the LHC through a simplified portal
Authors: Bernreuther Elias , Kahlhoefer Felix , Krämer Michael , Tunney Patrick
Published: January 2020

Abstract

We study the cosmology and LHC phenomenology of a consistent strongly interacting dark sector coupled to Standard Model particles through a generic vector mediator. We lay out the requirements for the model to be cosmologically viable, identify annihilations into dark vector mesons as the dominant dark matter freeze-out process and discuss bounds from direct detection. At the LHC the model predicts dark showers, which can give rise to semi-visible jets or displaced vertices. Existing searches for di-jet resonances and for missing energy mostly probe the parameter regions where prompt decays are expected and constrain our model despite not being optimised for dark showers. We also estimate the sensitivity of dedicated analyses for semi-visible jets and emphasize the complementarity of different search strategies.
Spin chain overlaps and the twisted Yangian
Authors: de Leeuw Marius , Gombor Tamás , Kristjansen Charlotte , Linardopoulos Georgios , Pozsgay Balázs
Published: January 2020

Abstract

Using considerations based on the thermodynamical Bethe ansatz as well as the representation theory of twisted Yangians we derive an exact expression for the overlaps between the Bethe eigenstates of the SO(6) spin chain and matrix product states built from matrices whose commutators generate an irreducible representation of

$$ \mathfrak{so} $$

so

(5). The latter play the role of boundary states in a domain wall version of

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 SYM theory which has non-vanishing, SO(5) symmetric vacuum expectation values on one side of a codimension 1 wall. This theory, which constitutes a defect CFT, is known to be dual to a D3-D7 probe brane system. We likewise show that the same methodology makes it possible to prove an overlap formula, earlier presented without proof, which is of relevance for the similar D3-D5 probe brane system.
Intraarticular injection of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells enhances regeneration in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Doyle Emily Claire , Wragg Nicholas Martin , Wilson Samantha Louise
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intra-articular injections of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods

This narrative review evaluates recent English language clinical data and published research articles between 2014 and 2019. Key word search strings of (((“bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell” OR “bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cell” OR “bone marrow stromal cell”)) AND (“osteoarthritis” OR “knee osteoarthritis”)) AND (“human” OR “clinical”))) AND “intra-articular injection” were used to identify relevant articles using PMC, Cochrane Library, Web Of Science and Scopus databases.

Results

Pre-clinical studies have demonstrated successful, safe and encouraging results for articular cartilage repair and regeneration. This is concluded to be due to the multilineage differential potential, immunosuppressive and self-renewal capabilities of BM-MSCs, which have shown to augment pain and improve functional outcomes. Subsequently, clinical applications of intra-articular injections of BM-MSCs are steadily increasing, with most studies demonstrating a decrease in poor cartilage index, improvements in pain, function and Quality of Life (QoL); with moderate-to-high level evidence regarding safety for therapeutic administration. However, low confidence in clinical efficacy remains due to a plethora of heterogenous methodologies utilised, resulting in challenging study comparisons. A moderate number of cells (40 × 106) were identified as most likely to achieve optimal responses in individuals with grade ≥ 2 KOA. Likewise, significant improvements were reported when using lower (24 × 106) and higher (100 × 106) cell numbers, although adverse effects including persistent pain and swelling were a consequence.

Conclusion

Overall, the benefits of intra-articular injections of BM-MSCs were deemed to outweigh the adverse effects; thus, this treatment be considered as a future therapy strategy. To realise this, long-term large-scale randomised clinical trials are required to enable improved interpretations, to determine the validity of efficacy in future studies.

Level of evidence

IV.
New Screening Tool for Aortic Root Dilation in Children with Marfan Syndrome and Marfan-Like Disorders
Authors: Wozniak-Mielczarek Lidia , Sabiniewicz Robert , Nowak Radosław , Gilis-Malinowska Natasza , Osowicka Michalina , Mielczarek Maksymilian
Published: January 2020

One of the roles of a pediatric cardiologist who suspects or diagnoses a genetically determined connective tissue disease (e.g., Marfan, Ehlers–Danlos, and Loeys–Dietz syndromes) is to assess whether the aortic root is dilated. The aortic root diameter is affected by the patient’s age, sex, and body surface area. Therefore, the aortic root diameter needs to be determined and expressed as a z-score. Calculation of the z-score is time-consuming and problematic if used infrequently. This study aimed to introduce a simple screening method for identifying aortic root dilation in children. The study population consisted of 190 children who were diagnosed with Marfan syndrome or Marfan-like disorders. The aortic root ratio (ARr) was formulated. The value of the ARr was compared in each patient with the results in z-scores, which were obtained using on-line calculators based on the most widespread nomograms. The optimal cut-off value of the ARr was ≥ 18.7. At this cut-off point, the sensitivity of the ARr ranged from 88.3% to 100% and the specificity ranged from 94% to 97.8%. All of the patients in whom the ARr failed to identify aortic root dilation were also divergently classified by different nomograms. At the ARr cut-off point of ≥ 18.0, a sensitivity of 100% was achieved for all nomograms with minimal reduction in specificity. The ARr allows for rapid and precise screening for aortic root dilation in children. Unlike classic analysis, the ARr does not require nomograms or on-line calculations.
Computed tomography-guided radiofrequency ablation combined with transarterial embolization assisted by a three-dimensional visualization ablation planning system for hepatocellular carcinoma in challenging locations: a preliminary study
Authors: Huang Zhi-mei , Zuo Meng-xuan , Gu Yang-kui , Gu Hai-feng , Lai Chun-xiao , Zhang Tian-qi , Wang Xiu-chen , An Chao , Huang Jin-hua
Published: January 2020

Objective

To assess the clinical efficacy and safety of computed tomography-guided radiofrequency ablation(CT-RFA) combined with transarterial embolization(TAE) assisted by a three-dimensional visualization ablation planning system(3DVAPS) for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) in challenging locations.

Methods

Data from 62 treatment-naive patients with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC), with 83 lesions in challenging locations, and who met the Milan criteria and underwent CT-RFA between June 2013 and June 2016 were reviewed. Patients were divided into one of two groups according to different treatment modalities: study group (TAE combined with RFA assisted by 3DVAPS [n = 32]); and control (RFA only [n = 30]). Oncological outcomes included ablation-related complications, local tumor progression (LTP), and overall survival (OS). Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to assess risk factors associated with LTP and OS.

Results

HCC lesions (mean size, 1.9 ± 1.0 mm in diameter) abutting the gastrointestinal tract (n = 25), heart and diaphragm (n = 21), major vessels (n = 13), and gallbladder (n = 3) were treated. A significant difference was detected in LTP between the two groups (P = 0.034), with no significant difference in OS between the two groups (P = 0.193). There were no severe complications related to ablation. Univariate analysis revealed that sex (P = 0.046) and child-turcotte-pugh (CTP) grade (P<0.001) were risk factors for OS, whereas CTP grade and treatment method (P<0.001) were risk factors for LTP. Multivariate analysis revealed that CTP grade B (P = 0.005) was independently associated with poor OS, and RFA alone (P<0.001) was independently associated with poor LTP.

Conclusion

CT-RFA combined with TAE assisted by a 3DVAPS provided ideal clinical efficiency for HCC in challenging locations and was a highly safe treatment modality.
Multicenter Validation of the Revised Assessment of Bleeding and Transfusion (RABT) Score for Predicting Massive Transfusion
Authors: Hanna Kamil , Harris Charles , Trust Marc D. , Bernard Andrew , Brown Carlos , Hamidi Mohammad , Joseph Bellal
Published: January 2020

Background

Massive transfusion (MT) is a lifesaving treatment for hemorrhaging patients. Predicting the need for MT is crucial to improve survival. The aim of our study was to validate the Revised Assessment of Bleeding and Transfusion (RABT) score to predict MT in a multicenter cohort of trauma patients.

Methods

We performed a (2015–2017) analysis of adult (age ≥ 18 year) trauma patients who had a high‐level trauma team activation at three Level I trauma centers. The RABT was calculated using the 4‐point score [blunt (0)/penetrating trauma (1), shock index ≥ 1 (1), pelvic fracture (1), and FAST positive (1)]. A RABT score of ≥ 2 was used to predict MT (≥ 10 units of packed red blood cells within 24 h). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was calculated to assess the score's predictive power compared to the Assessment of Blood Consumption (ABC) score.

Results

We analyzed 1018 patients: 216 (facility I), 363 (facility II), and 439 (facility III). The mean age was 41 ± 19 year, and the injury severity score (ISS) was 29 [22–36]. The overall MT rate was 19%. The overall AUROC of RABT ≥ 2 was 0.89. The sensitivity of the RABT ≥ 2 was 78%, and the specificity was 91%. The RABT score had a higher sensitivity (78% vs. 69%) and specificity (91% vs. 82%) than the ABC score.

Conclusion

The RABT score is a valid tool to predict MT in severely injured trauma patients. It is an objective score that aids clinicians in predicting the need for MT to mobilize blood products and minimize the waste of resources.
Reduced-intensity haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell transplantation using low-dose thymoglobulin for aggressive adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma patients in non-complete remission
Authors: Hirosawa Makoto , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Tanaka Aya , Kominato Yoshihiko , Higashi Takehiro , Morimoto Hiroaki , Tsukada Junichi
Published: January 2020

Haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) has been accepted as a treatment option for aggressive (acute or lymphoma type) adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) patients with a poor prognosis, when a suitable HLA-matched donor is not available. However, haplo-HSCT carries a potential risk of treatment-related mortality including severe graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Therefore, we conducted a prospective pilot study in order to evaluate the efficacy and safety of reduced-intensity haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (haplo-PBSCT) with low-dose thymoglobulin (2.5 mg/kg only on day −2), fludarabine, melphalan, and total body irradiation 4 Gy for aggressive ATLL. Three consecutive acute type ATLL patients, who were ineligible for conventional myeloablative conditioning due to advanced age or comorbidities, were enrolled. One patient received pretransplant mogamulizumab therapy. All the patients were not in complete remission (CR) at the time of transplantation. Our transplantation protocol was safely carried out. CR was achieved in all the patients after transplantation. HTLV-I viral loads became undetectable after transplantation. No severe adverse events such as grade III-IV GVHD or viral/fungal diseases were observed. At a follow-up of 2 years, they were still in CR. However, T cell receptor repertoire diversities were low 1 year after transplantation in next-generation sequencing. Our results show encouraging therapeutic benefits of this pilot approach using reduced-intensity haplo-PBSCT with low-dose thymoglobulin for aggressive ATLL patients.
The Work and Social Adjustment Scale, Youth and Parent Versions: Psychometric Evaluation of a Brief Measure of Functional Impairment in Young People
Authors: Jassi Amita , Lenhard Fabian , Krebs Georgina , Gumpert Martina , Jolstedt Maral , Andrén Per , Nord Martina , Aspvall Kristina , Wahlund Tove , Volz Chloe , Mataix-Cols David
Published: January 2020

The Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS) is a brief global measure of functional impairment that is widely used in adult health. We have adapted the WSAS for its use in youth, the WSAS-Youth version (WSAS-Y) and WSAS-Parent version (WSAS-P). This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the scale. The internal consistency, factor structure, convergent and divergent validity, test–retest reliability and sensitivity to change of the WSAS-Y/P were studied in 525 children and adolescents with obsessive–compulsive disorder and related disorders receiving treatment. The internal consistency of the WSAS-Y/P was excellent across diagnostic groups and time-points. Exploratory factor analysis extracted a single-factor of functional impairment, explaining in excess of 85% of the variance. The test–retest reliability was adequate. The WSAS-Y/P correlated more strongly with other measures of functional impairment than with measures of symptom severity, indicating good convergent/divergent validity. Finally, the WSAS-Y/P was highly sensitive to change after treatment.
Review on the recent progress in the preparation and stability of graphene-based nanofluids
Authors: Le Ba Thong , Mahian Omid , Wongwises Somchai , Szilágyi Imre Miklós
Published: January 2020

Graphene has attracted much attention from the science world because of its mechanical, thermal, and physical properties. Graphene nanofluid is well known for its easy synthesis, longer suspension stability, higher heat conductivity, lower erosion, corrosion, larger surface area/volume ratio, and lower demand for pumping power. This article is an audit of experimental outcome about the preparation and stability of graphene-based nanofluids. Numerous researches to prepare and stabilize graphene-based nanofluids have been developed, and it is indispensable to create a complete list of the approaches. This research work outlines the advancement on preparation and assessment methods and the techniques to enhance the stability of graphene nanofluids and outlook prospects.
Volumetric evaluation of renal sinus adipose tissue on computed tomography images in bilateral nephrolithiasis patients
Authors: Lin Peng , Min Zeng , Wei Gong , Lei Hu , Feifei Zeng , Yunfei Zha
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To compare renal sinus fat volume (RSFV) separately within the right and left kidneys between bilateral nephrolithiasis patients and healthy controls.

Methods

This cross-sectional study analyzed patients who underwent unenhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) divided into nephrolithiasis (n = 102) and healthy control (n = 130) groups. Age, sex, blood pressure [systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)], estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), body weight, and height of each participant were extracted. Volumetric renal sinus adipose tissue was measured separately for both kidneys on CT images. Urea, serum creatinine (Scr), uric acid (UA), total serum cholesterol (TCH), serum triglyceride (TG), and serum high- and low-density lipoprotein (HDL and LDL, respectively) cholesterol levels were obtained.

Results

Overall, 232 participants (mean age 47 years, 50% women) were enrolled. There were no differences in sex, DBP, urea, and LDL-cholesterol between the two groups (all p > 0.05). However, nephrolithiasis patients had higher age, BMI, SBP, and RSFV; higher Scr, UA, TCH, and TG serum levels; and lower HDL-cholesterol level and eGFR. Average left RSFV was significantly higher than right RSFV in healthy controls (4.56 ± 2.29 versus 3.34 ± 1.90 cm3, p < 0.001). A significant relationship between bilateral RSFV, age, BMI, SBP, and eGFR was noted in bilateral nephrolithiasis patients. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed age, BMI, and LDL-cholesterol to be independent predictors of left RSFV, and only BMI was an independent predictor of right RSFV.

Conclusions

Our data showed renal sinus adipose tissue accumulation and the relationship among RSFV, age, BMI, and LDL-cholesterol in bilateral nephrolithiasis patients.
Household food insecurity is associated with depressive symptoms: results from a Mexican population-based survey
Authors: Kolovos Spyros , Zavala Gerardo A , Leijen Anne Sophie , Melgar-Quiñonez Hugo , van Tulder Maurits
Published: January 2020

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to assess the relationship between food insecurity and depression in the Mexican population. We used data from the 2012 health and nutrition survey (ENSANUT), which is representative of the Mexican population. Food insecurity was determined by the Latin American and Caribbean Food Security Scale (ELCSA). Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale Short-Form (CES-D-SF). Adjusted logistic regression analyses and ANCOVA were used. Out of 33,011 participants, 5788 (18%) had high depressive symptoms and 24,098 (73%) experienced food insecurity. The adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that, participants with mild food insecurity, (OR = 1.47,95% CI = 1.27 to 1.71), moderate food insecurity (OR = 2.14,95% CI = 1.85 to 2.47) and severe food insecurity (OR = 3.01,95% CI = 2.51 to 3.60,) were more likely to have high depressive symptoms than food secure participants. Participants with moderate food insecurity (OR =1.45, 95% CI = 1.28 to 1.64) and severe food insecurity (OR =2.04, 95% CI = 1.76 to 2.37) were more likely to suffer from depression as compared to participants with mild food insecurity. Participants with severe food insecurity were more likely (OR=1.41, 95% CI = 1.21 to 1.65) to suffer from depression compared to participants with moderate food insecurity. This paper provides an overview of the complex problem of food insecurity and mental health. Despite the unknown causality, the analysis suggests a strong association between depression and food insecurity. This problem calls for much more attention from the scientific community. Given the high prevalence of depression and the high prevalence of household food insecurity in Mexico, the implementation of successful public health programs to improve food security is necessary.
Forest Biomass Availability and Utilization Potential in Sweden: A Review
Authors: Kumar Anuj , Adamopoulos Stergios , Jones Dennis , Amiandamhen Stephen O.
Published: January 2020

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in many parts of the world for more effective biomass utilization due to legislative and public interest in sustainable development. Whilst much of the effort has been on energy generation from biomass, there is considerable interest on biomass availability and utilization for other end uses. With about 1% of the world’s commercial forest areas, Sweden provides about 10% of the sawnwood, and pulp and paper that is traded on the global market. The Swedish agricultural sector also contributes to biomass availability, not only by production of sustainable food crops, but also by utilizing side streams and underutilized land for biomaterial purposes. To meet the challenges that climate change presents, there has to be a shift to sustainable biomass production and increased interest in promoting a circular bioeconomy. This review presents a systematic assessment on the availability of biomass and its utilization potential in Sweden. The review also focuses on biomass production and trade in the Swedish forest industry. In addition, the environmental impact of biomass utilization is discussed.

Graphic Abstract
Nanocomposites with ornidazole—antibacterial and antiadhesive agents against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
Authors: Furtat I. , Lupatsii M. , Murlanova T. , Vakuliuk P. , Gaidai A. , Biliayeva O. , Sobczuk H. , Golub A.
Published: January 2020

Antimicrobial resistance of many microbial species can cause to thousands of deaths worldwide, in this regard new therapeutic strategies have to be invented. To address the question, we have prepared nanocomposites on the basis of pyrogenic silicon dioxide with ornidazole immobilized on the surface (ornidasil) and studied their antimicrobial properties and the therapeutic potential. It has also been shown, that in comparison with pure ornidazole the addition of ornidazole to nanocomposite composition can enhance the antimicrobial spectrum, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The most significant bactericidal effect has been reached after more than 24-h treatment with the nanocomposite. Antiadhesive properties of nanocomposite materials were studied using blood types OO+, AO+, BO+, AB+, the degree of bacterial adhesion was estimated using three indexes: average adhesion index, index of erythrocytes involvement, index of microbial adhesion. The effectiveness of the treatment with the nanocomposites obtained was studied on complicated wounds of various etiologies, in particular the wounds caused by diabetic foot syndrome.
Wastewater treatment facilities in the USA and Europe employ SUEZ's MBR, UF and RO technologies
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: January 2020

As reported on the first page of this month's issue, SUEZ, which operates largely in the water treatment and waste management sectors, is expanding its manufacturing centre in Oroszlány, Hungary that produces ultrafiltration membranes. Continuing coverage of the firm's recent activities, this article looks at a number of projects – in the USA and Europe – that rely on membrane technology it has developed. In addition, it briefly covers “Shaping SUEZ 2030” – its comprehensive plan to substantially strengthen its position as an environmental services company.
Spatiotemporal clustering of in-hospital Clostridioides difficile infection
Authors: Pai Shreyas , Polgreen Philip M. , Segre Alberto Maria , Sewell Daniel K. , Pemmaraju Sriram V. ,   for the CDC MInD-Healthcare group
Published: January 2020

Objective:

To determine whether Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) exhibits spatiotemporal interaction and clustering.

Design:

Retrospective observational study.

Setting:

The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Patients:

This study included 1,963 CDI cases, January 2005 through December 2011.

Methods:

We extracted location and time information for each case and ran the Knox, Mantel, and mean and maximum component size tests for time thresholds (T = 7, 14, and 21 days) and distance thresholds (D = 2, 3, 4, and 5 units; 1 unit = 5–6 m). All tests were implemented using Monte Carlo simulations, and random CDI cases were constructed by randomly permuting times of CDI cases 20,000 times. As a counterfactual, we repeated all tests on 790 aspiration pneumonia cases because aspiration pneumonia is a complication without environmental factors.

Results:

Results from the Knox test and mean component size test rejected the null hypothesis of no spatiotemporal interaction (P < .0001), for all values of T and D. Results from the Mantel test also rejected the hypothesis of no spatiotemporal interaction (P < .0003). The same tests showed no such effects for aspiration pneumonia. Our results from the maximum component size tests showed similar trends, but they were not consistently significant, possibly because CDI outbreaks attributable to the environment were relatively small.

Conclusion:

Our results clearly show spatiotemporal interaction and clustering among CDI cases and none whatsoever for aspiration pneumonia cases. These results strongly suggest that environmental factors play a role in the onset of some CDI cases. However, our results are not inconsistent with the possibility that many genetically unrelated CDI cases occurred during the study period.
Effects of FABP4 variation on milk fatty-acid composition for dairy cattle grazed on pasture in late lactation
Authors: Li Yunhai , Zhou Huitong , Cheng Long , Hodge Miriam , Zhao Jenny , Tung Rosy , Edwards Grant , Hickford Jonathan
Published: January 2020

This research communication describes associations between variation in the fatty acid binding protein 4 gene (FABP4) and milk fat composition in New Zealand Holstein-Friesian × Jersey cross dairy cows. After correcting for the effect of the amino acid substitution p.K232A in diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1), which is associated with variation in many milk fatty acid (FA) component levels, the effect of FABP4 c.328A/G on milk FA levels was typically small. For the five genotypes analysed, the AB cows produced more medium-chain fatty acids than CC cows (P < 0.05), and more C14:0 FA than AA and AC cows (P < 0.05). The AA and AC cows produced less C22:0 FA (P < 0.01) than the BC cows, and the AC cows produced more C24:0 FA (P < 0.05) than was produced by the BC cows. Cows of genotype CC produce more long-chain fatty acids than cows of genotype BC (P < 0.05).
Off-pathway 3D-structure provides protection against spontaneous Asn/Asp isomerization: shielding proteins Achilles heel
Authors: Láng András , Jákli Imre , Enyedi Kata Nóra , Mező Gábor , Menyhárd Dóra K. , Perczel András
Published: January 2020

Spontaneous deamidation prompted backbone isomerization of Asn/Asp residues resulting in – most cases – the insertion of an extra methylene group into the backbone poses a threat to the structural integrity of proteins. Here we present a systematical analysis of how temperature, pH, presence of charged residues, but most importantly backbone conformation and dynamics affect isomerization rates as determined by nuclear magnetic resonance in the case of designed peptide-models. We demonstrate that restricted mobility (such as being part of a secondary structural element) may safeguard against isomerization, but this protective factor is most effective in the case of off-pathway folds which can slow the reaction by several magnitudes compared to their on-pathway counterparts. We show that the geometric descriptors of the initial nucleophilic attack of the isomerization can be used to classify local conformation and contribute to the design of stable protein drugs, antibodies or the assessment of the severity of mutations.
A review of research in applied linguistics published in New Zealand (2013–2017)
Authors: Skyrme Gillian , Ker Alastair
Published: January 2020

This article presents selected research on applied linguistics published in New Zealand, followingLanguage Teaching's commitment to showcase more broadly local research that would not otherwise be easily accessible to an international audience. It covers research conducted and published in New Zealand from 2013 to 2017, following on from Ker, Adams, and Skyrme (2013). It begins with an overview of the language situation in New Zealand, then summarises research into language learning, teaching and use which has appeared in the domestic applied linguistics literature in the period. The review indicates the continuing depth and breadth of research activity in New Zealand. Major themes include the maintenance of languages other than English, notably the official languages,te reo Māori(the Māori language) and New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), and strategies to reverse dwindling enrolments in courses in additional languages against the background of growing linguistic diversity. There is interest in innovative methodology, and in processes of assessment and curriculum development to underpin teaching in formal educational settings. The prevalence of studies with a focus on small numbers of cases reflects the preponderance of practitioner-led research. There is, however, a parallel trend towards larger-scale studies indicating capacity to undertake larger, collaborative projects.