bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic anticipation of breast cancer among BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carriers: A retrospective study
Authors: Kedmi Aviya , Kadouri Luna , Sagy Iftach , Hamburger Tamar , Levin Gabriel , Zimhony‐Nissim Noa , Peretz Tamar
Published: March 2022

Objective

To study the anticipation phenomenon among hereditary breast cancer patients, by evaluating trends in age at diagnosis and phenotype of breast cancer across two successive generation pairs of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers/non‐carriers with breast cancer after reports of an earlier age of diagnosis in successive generations among BRCA1/2 mutation carrier families.

Method

A retrospective cohort study. Patient characteristics, pathologic data and survival were compared between mothers and daughters and between carriers and non‐carriers.

Results

Overall, 126 patients were found, who formed 67 pairs of mothers and daughters diagnosed with breast cancer and genetically tested for BRCA mutations. Age at diagnosis was significantly younger in the daughter versus mother generation, in both groups of BRCA carriers/non‐carriers. Tumor characteristics were not different between mothers and daughters. Survival analysis revealed a not significant better outcome for the daughter generation versus the mother generation.

Conclusions

Breast cancer appeared to be diagnosed at an earlier age in successive generations among BRCA mutation carriers and non‐carriers. The fact that we also observed a downshift at age of diagnosis in non‐carrier pairs emphasizes that other factors (environmental, lifestyle, or social) may influence the age at diagnosis.
Suppression of Sost/Sclerostin and Dickkopf-1 Augment Intervertebral Disc Structure in Mice
Authors: Kroon Tori , Bhadouria Neharika , Niziolek Paul , Edwards Daniel , Choi Roy , Clinkenbeard Erica L , Robling Alexander , Holguin Nilsson
Published: March 2022

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a leading cause of low back pain, characterized by accelerated extracellular matrix breakdown and IVD height loss, but there is no approved pharmacological therapeutic. Deletion of Wnt ligand competitor Lrp5 induces IVD degeneration, suggesting that Wnt signaling is essential for IVD homeostasis. Therefore, the IVD may respond to neutralization of Wnt ligand competitors sost(gene)/sclerostin(protein) and/or dickkopf-1 (dkk1). Anti-sclerostin antibody (scl-Ab) is an FDA-approved bone therapeutic that activates Wnt signaling. We aimed to (i) determine if pharmacological neutralization of sclerostin, dkk1, or their combination would stimulate Wnt signaling and augment IVD structure and (ii) determine the prolonged adaptation of the IVD to global, persistent deletion of sost. Nine-week-old C57Bl/6J female mice (n = 6–7/group) were subcutaneously injected 2×/week for 5.5 weeks with scl-Ab (25 mg/kg), dkk1-Ab (25 mg/kg), 3:1 scl-Ab/dkk1-Ab (18.75:6.25 mg/kg), or vehicle (veh). Separately, IVD of sost KO and wild-type (WT) mice (n = 8/group) were harvested at 16 weeks of age. First, compared with vehicle, injection of scl-Ab, dkk1-Ab, and 3:1 scl-Ab/dkk1-Ab similarly increased lumbar IVD height and β-catenin gene expression. Despite these similarities, only injection of scl-Ab alone strengthened IVD mechanical properties and decreased heat shock protein gene expressions. Genetically and compared with WT, sost KO enlarged IVD height, increased proteoglycan staining, and imbibed IVD hydration. Notably, persistent deletion of sost was compensated by upregulation of dkk1, which consequently reduced the cell nuclear fraction for Wnt signaling co-transcription factor β-catenin in the IVD. Lastly, RNA-sequencing pathway analysis confirmed the compensatory suppression of Wnt signaling and revealed a reduction of cellular stress-related pathways. Together, suppression of sost/sclerostin or dkk1 each augmented IVD structure by stimulating Wnt signaling, but scl-Ab outperformed dkk1-Ab in strengthening the IVD. Ultimately, postmenopausal women prescribed scl-Ab injections to prevent vertebral fracture may also benefit from a restoration of IVD height and health. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Abstract

Suppression of Wnt signaling inhibitors by genetic or pharmacological approaches promoted intervertebral disc structure, strength, and hydration. However, persistent activation of Wnt signaling induced a compensatory upregulation of other Wnt signaling inhibitors that shifted IVD cells toward a mature NP cell phenotype. AF = annulus fibrosus; NC = notochordal cell; NP = nucleus pulposus; PG = proteoglycan.
Bonding situation in isolable silver(I) carbonyl complexes of the Scorpionates
Authors: Fernández Israel , Noonikara‐Poyil Anurag , Dias H. V. Rasika
Published: March 2022

The bonding situation of Ag(I)CO complexes having a Scorpionate ligand directly attached to the transition metal has been analyzed in detail by means of relativistic density functional theory calculations. To this end, different experimentally characterized complexes together with other representative species have been considered to rationalize the observed shift of the corresponding ν(CO) stretching frequencies and the influence of the substituents in the Scorpionate ligand. With the help of the energy decomposition analysis method combined with the natural orbital for chemical valence it is found that the main contribution to the bonding comes from the electrostatic attractions between the LAg(I) and CO fragments. Despite that, the LAg → CO π‐backdonation is also significant in these species as well as in related LCu(I)CO complexes.
Oxovanadium(V) catalysts for the CO2 fixation into cyclic carbonates under ambient pressure
Authors: Chen Tsung‐Yu , Liu Chia‐Hao , Tsai Ming‐Li
Published: March 2022

Developing feasible strategies to utilize CO2 as a C1 synthon for constructing various valued‐added chemical feedstock is crucial for alleviating the global warning and achieving a carbon‐neutral cycle. The coupling between epoxide and carbon dioxide is a promising direction due to the large driving force for the formation of thermodynamically stable cyclic carbonate and its 100% atom‐economy efficiency. Despite numerous metal‐based complexes that have been reported to facilitate this coupling reaction catalytically, harsh conditions (high temperature and pressure) are usually required. In this study, the synthesis and structural/spectroscopic characterizations of oxovanadium(V) complexes 2a–2f chelated with one‐step synthesized hydrazone‐imidate ligands were reported. The catalytic performance of the synthesized oxovanadium(V) complexes regarding the coupling reaction between epoxide and CO2 was successfully demonstrated with only 0.5 mol% loading of both oxovanadium(V) catalyst and [NBu4][Br] at 80°C under 1 bar of CO2. The substrate scope containing both terminal epoxide derivative and internal epoxide derivative indicates that the oxovanadium(V) catalysts could exert efficient catalytic coupling reaction of terminal epoxide (63 ~ 85% conversion rates) under ambient pressure of CO2.
Gut microbes and muscle function: can probiotics make our muscles stronger?
Authors: Giron Muriel , Thomas Muriel , Dardevet Dominique , Chassard Christophe , Savary‐Auzeloux Isabelle
Published: March 2022

Evidence suggests that gut microbiota composition and diversity can be a determinant of skeletal muscle metabolism and functionality. This is true in catabolic (sarcopenia and cachexia) or anabolic (exercise or in athletes) situations. As gut microbiota is known to be causal in the development and worsening of metabolic dysregulation phenotypes such as obesity or insulin resistance, it can regulate, at least partially, skeletal muscle mass and function. Skeletal muscles are physiologically far from the gut. Signals generated by the gut due to its interaction with the gut microbiome (microbial metabolites, gut peptides, lipopolysaccharides, and interleukins) constitute links between gut microbiota activity and skeletal muscle and regulate muscle functionality via modulation of systemic/tissue inflammation as well as insulin sensitivity. The probiotics able to limit sarcopenia and cachexia or promote health performances in rodents are mainly lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria. In humans, the same bacteria have been tested, but the scarcity of the studies, the variability of the populations, and the difficulty to measure accurately and with high reproducibility muscle mass and function have not allowed to highlight specific strains able to optimize muscle mass and function. Further studies are required on more defined population, in order to design personalized nutrition. For elderly, testing the efficiency of probiotics according to the degree of frailty, nutritional state, or degree of sarcopenia before supplementation is essential. For exercise, selection of probiotics capable to be efficient in recreational and/or elite athletes, resistance, and/or endurance exercise would also require further attention. Ultimately, a combination of strategies capable to optimize muscle functionality, including bacteria (new microbes, bacterial ecosystems, or mix, more prone to colonize a specific gut ecosystem) associated with prebiotics and other ‘traditional’ supplements known to stimulate muscle anabolism (e.g. proteins), could be the best way to preserve muscle functionality in healthy individuals at all ages or patients.
Radiofrequency ablation of parathyroid adenomas causing primary hyperparathyroidism: A report of 27 patients
Authors: Ebrahiminik Hojat , Chegeni Hossein , Mosadegh Khah Ali , Salouti Rambod , Ghomashchi Ghazal , Deldar Pasikhani Maryam , Heydari Iraj , Shamsi Khosro , Beiranvand Behrouz , Azimi Aval Mohammad Reza , Mohammadi Afshin , Mirza‐Aghazadeh‐Attari Mohammad , Fadaee Narges
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To study treatment outcome of parathyroid adenomas using ultrasound‐guided radiofrequency ablation.

Methods

Twenty‐seven patients with a single adenoma of the parathyroid gland were included in the study. Using color Doppler ultrasonography, the lesion and its characteristics were determined, and dextrose was injected to dissect the gland from the surrounding structures. The ablation process was done with 6–12 watts of power.

Results

No complications were seen in any of the subjects. A significant reduction was seen in serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium levels after treatment. PTH levels showed a median decrease of 13.8%, and a median decrease of 8.2% was seen in serum calcium levels (p < 0.001). Phosphorus levels did not change significantly after treatment. In 1‐month follow‐up of patients, the lesion size had decreased considerably. In long‐term follow‐up, 11 of 20 patients having subsequent imaging had indistinguishable lesions.

Conclusion

Our results showed that RFA of parathyroid adenomas caused a significant reduction in biomedical indicators of disease and resulted in a significant reduction or disappearance of the lesion in the majority of the patients while having no considerable complications.
Synthesis of [2H5]baricitinib via [2H5]ethanesulfonyl chloride
Authors: Jansen‐van Vuuren Ross D. , Vohra Rahul
Published: March 2022

Baricitinib, typically applied as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, has recently attracted the attention of clinicians and researchers as a potential treatment for COVID‐19. Naturally, there has been a need for the preparation of the isotope‐labelled analogue of baricitinib to probe the pharmacokinetics of baricitinib in this new role. As such, we have developed a simple synthetic route to deuterated [2H5]baricitinib, facilitating its formation over four steps and in a 29% overall yield based on starting [2H5]ethanethiol (19% if we start with [2H5]bromoethane instead). A critical component of the overall process involves the synthesis of [2H5]ethanesulfonyl chloride, and we describe in detail the two routes that were explored to optimize this step.
Multiparametric Framework Magnetic Resonance Imaging Assessment of Subtypes of Intracranial Germ Cell Tumors Using Susceptibility Weighted Imaging, Diffusion‐Weighted Imaging, and Dynamic Susceptibility‐Contrast Perfusion‐Weighted Imaging Combined With Conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Li Yanong , Wang Peng , Zhang Jing , Li Jane , Chen Li , Qiu Xiaoguang
Published: March 2022

Background

Intracranial germ cell tumors (iGCTs) are classified into two pathological subtypes (germinomas [GEs] and nongerminomatous germ cell tumors [NGGCTs]), with distinct treatment strategy and prognosis. Accurate preoperative determination of iGCT subtypes is essential to guide clinical decision‐making and prognosis assessment.

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic value of diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI), and dynamic susceptibility‐contrast perfusion‐weighted imaging (DSC‐PWI) combined with conventional magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) in finding subtypes of iGCTs.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 40 patients (45% male and 55% female) with iGCTs.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3 T; .

Assessment

The parameters of DWI and DSC‐PWI were calculated based on extracted parameters of multiparametric MRIs. The characteristics of SWI and cMRI were also compared in GEs and NGGCTs.

Statistical Tests

The diagnostic efficacy of the minimum apparent diffusion coefficient (ADCmin), time‐to‐peak (TTP), relative mean transit time (rMTT), relative cerebral blood flow (rCBF), relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) maps, and cMRI features in iGCT classification was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analyses. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, AUC, and Youden index of the hybrid MR evaluation methods. A prospective cohort (five GEs and five NGGCTs) was designed as a simulation set to test the model. The significance threshold was set at P < 0.01.

Results

The ADCmin (1039.100 ± 453.830 vs. 1400.050 ± 394.650), rCBF values (20.650 ± 6.260 vs. 51.170 ± 6.570), and TTP values (24.450 ± 3.160 vs. 28.950 ± 5.120) were significantly lower in GEs than in NGGCTs. The combination of ADCmin, DSC‐PWI, and cMRI showed the heights AUC (AUC = 0.962). The iGCT multiparametric framework showed the AUC was 0.958 in the simulation set.

Data Conclusion

The iCGT multiparametric framework might be an effective diagnostic approach of iGCT subtype. The application of cMRI (T1WI, T2WI, and Gd‐T1WI) with advanced imaging modalities (DWI, SWI, and PWI) had the best performance for classifying iGCT subtypes.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Optimization of Detection of Gadodiamide Brain Retention in Rats Using Quantitative T2 Mapping and Intraperitoneal Administration
Authors: Liachenko Serguei M. , Sadovova Natalya V. , Tripp Arnold , Ghorai Suman , Patri Anil K. , Hanig Joseph P. , Cohen Jonathan E. , Krefting Ira
Published: March 2022

Background

Currently, the gadolinium retention in the brain after the use of contrast agents is studied by T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (T1w) and T1 mapping. The former does not provide easily quantifiable data and the latter requires prolonged scanning and is sensitive to motion. T2 mapping may provide an alternative approach. Animal studies of gadolinium retention are complicated by repeated intravenous (IV) dosing, whereas intraperitoneal (IP) injections might be sufficient.

Hypothesis

T2 mapping will detect the changes in the rat brain due to gadolinium retention, and IP administration is equivalent to IV for long‐term studies.

Study Type

Prospective longitudinal.

Animal Model

A total of 31 Sprague–Dawley rats administered gadodiamide IV (N = 8) or IP (N = 8), or saline IV (N = 6) or IP (N = 9) 4 days per week for 5 weeks.

Field strength/sequences

A 7 T, T1w, and T2 mapping.

Assessment

T2 relaxation and image intensities in the deep cerebellar nuclei were measured pre‐treatment and weekly for 5 weeks. Then brains were assessed for neuropathology (N = 4) or gadolinium content using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS, N = 12).

Statistical tests

Repeated measures analysis of variance with post hoc Student–Newman–Keuls tests and Hedges' effect size.

Results

Gadolinium was detected by both approaches; however, T2 mapping was more sensitive (effect size 2.32 for T2 vs. 0.95 for T1w), and earlier detection (week 3 for T2 vs. week 4 for T1w). ICP‐MS confirmed the presence of gadolinium (3.076 ± 0.909 nmol/g in the IV group and 3.948 ± 0.806 nmol/g in the IP group). There was no significant difference between IP and IV groups (ICP‐MS, P = 0.109; MRI, P = 0.696). No histopathological abnormalities were detected in any studied animal.

Conclusion

T2 relaxometry detects gadolinium retention in the rat brain after multiple doses of gadodiamide irrespective of the route of administration.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
PulmonaryMRIand Cluster Analysis Help Identify Novel Asthma Phenotypes
Authors: Eddy Rachel L. , McIntosh Marrissa J. , Matheson Alexander M. , McCormack David G. , Licskai Christopher , Parraga Grace
Published: March 2022

Background

Outside eosinophilia, current clinical asthma phenotypes do not show strong relationships with disease pathogenesis or treatment responses. While chest x‐ray computed tomography (CT) phenotypes have previously been explored, functional MRI measurements provide complementary phenotypic information.

Purpose

To derive novel data‐driven asthma phenotypic clusters using functional MRI airway biomarkers that better describe airway pathologies in patients.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 45 patients with asthma who underwent post‐bronchodilator129Xe MRI, volume‐matched CT, spirometry and plethysmography within a 90‐minute visit.

Field Strength/Sequence

Three‐dimensional gradient‐recalled echo129Xe ventilation sequence at 3 T.

Assessment

We measured MRI ventilation defect percent (VDP), CT airway wall‐area percent (WA%), wall‐thickness (WT, WT* [*normalized for age/sex/height]), lumen‐area (LA), lumen‐diameter (D, D*) and total airway count (TAC). Univariate relationships were utilized to select variables for k‐means cluster analysis and phenotypic subgroup generation. Spirometry and plethysmography measurements were compared across imaging‐based clusters.

Statistical Tests

Spearman correlation (ρ), one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Kruskal–Wallis tests with post hoc Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, significance level 0.05.

Results

Based on limited common variance (Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin‐measure = 0.44), four unique clusters were generated using MRI VDP, TAC, WT* and D* (52 ± 14 years, 27 female). Imaging measurements were significantly different across clusters as was the forced expiratory volume in 1‐second (FEV1%pred), residual volume/total lung capacity and airways resistance. Asthma‐control (P = 0.9), quality‐of‐life scores (P = 0.7) and the proportions of severe‐asthma (P = 0.4) were not significantly different. Cluster1 (n = 15/8 female) reflected mildly abnormal CT airway measurements and FEV1with moderately abnormal VDP. Cluster2 (n = 12/12 female) reflected moderately abnormal TAC, WT and FEV1. In Cluster3 and Cluster4 (n = 14/6 female,n = 4/1 female, respectively), there was severely reduced TAC, D and FEV1, but Cluster4 also had significantly worse, severely abnormal VDP (7 ± 5% vs. 41 ± 12%).

Data Conclusion

We generated four proof‐of‐concept MRI‐derived clusters of asthma with distinct structure–function pathologies. Cluster analysis of asthma using129Xe MRI in combination with CT biomarkers is feasible and may challenge currently used paradigms for asthma phenotyping and treatment decisions.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage
Short and mid‐term SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody response after inactivated COVID‐19 vaccine in hemodialysis and kidney transplant patients
Authors: Dheir Hamad , Tocoglu Aysel , Toptan Hande , Pinar Musa , Demirci Taner , Koroglu Mehmet , Yaylaci Selcuk , Genc Ahmed Bilal , Genc Ahmed Cihad , Firat Necattin , Karabay Oguz , Sipahi Savas
Published: March 2022

The efficacy of the inactivated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccine has not been fully elucidated across the whole spectrum of patients on kidney replacement therapy. We aimed to characterize the long‐term antibody response of inactivated SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine administered in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) and hemodialysis (HD) patients. We performed this prospective observational study in 50 HD, 64 KTR, and 41 healthy control groups (HG) given two doses of CoronaVac. We measured anti‐Spike antibodies after 28 days of every vaccine dose, 3rd and 6th months after the first dose, and compared them between cohorts. After two doses, an anti‐spike immunoglobulin G of ≥50 AU/ml was present in HD, KTR, and HG as 44%, 7.2%, and 58.5%, respectively (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the proportion of antibody titers peaked at 86.5%, 23%, and 97.6% (p < 0.001) at the 3rd month and decreased significantly at the 6th month in most HD and HG participants, whereas this effect was not observed in KTRs from basal until the 6th month (p < 0.001). During the follow‐up, the incidence of coronavirus disease 2019 disease was higher (p < 0.003) in KTRs compared to the other groups, but there was no requirement for an intensive care unit and no death was recorded. We found a negative correlation between antibody seroconversion and age (p < 0.016). The antibody response following inactivated vaccine in dialysis patients is almost comparable to controls for 6 months. In contrast, kidney transplant patients have a poor response. These findings reinforce the need to discuss the vaccination strategy in immunocompromised patients, including the third dose with homologous or heterologous vaccines.
Hypochlorous acid as a disinfectant for high‐risk HPV: Insight into the mechanism of action
Authors: Robins Lori I. , Clark Andrew , Gafken Philip R. , Alam Samina , Milici Janice , Hassan Reem , Wang Che‐Yen , Williams Jeffrey , Meyers Craig
Published: March 2022

Medical instruments that are not autoclavable but may become contaminated with high‐risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) during use must be thoroughly disinfected to avoid the possibility of iatrogenic transmission of infection. There is an expectation that prolonged soaking of instruments in the United States Food and Drug Administration‐cleared chemical disinfectant solutions will result in high‐level decontamination, but HPV16 and HPV18 are known to be resistant to commonly used formulations. However, they are susceptible to a variety of oxidative agents, including those based on chlorine. Here, we tested the efficacy of homogeneous hypochlorous acid (HOCl) solutions against mature infectious virions of HPV16 and HPV18 dried onto butadiene styrene coupons and ultrasonic probes. Both viruses were inactivated to >4 log reduction value (LRV) after 15 s on coupons and 5 min on ultrasonic probes. Morphologic changes became evident within those contact times by transmission electron microscopy when HPV16 virus‐like particles were exposed to HOCl under identical conditions. Mass spectrometry analysis of trypsin‐digested products of L1 capsid proteins exposed to HOCl showed that mostly conserved residues were modified by oxidation and that these changes rapidly lead to instability of the protein demonstrable on sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE). Modifications to these residues may contribute to rapid virus inactivation. The use of homogeneous HOCl solutions for HPV decontamination provides a highly effective means of assuring the safety of nonautoclavable medical instruments.
Has substantial sea ice loss along the Siberian coast contributed to the 2020/2021 winter cold wave in China?
Authors: Wang Shaoyin , Liu Jiping , Cheng Xiao , Kerzenmacher Tobias , Li Hua , Lu Riyu , Hu Yongyun , Chen Zhuoqi , Braesicke Peter
Published: March 2022

In winter 2020/2021, several episodes of cold air outbreaks have wreaked havoc across much of China, resulting in exceptionally low temperatures over northern‐to‐southeastern China. Our analysis shows that the anomalous circulation leading to the cold wave in China was characterized as: (a) a strengthening of the Siberian high, (b) a deepening of the East Asian trough, and (c) a weakening of the stratospheric polar vortex. Prior to the winter, in summer and autumn, the largest sea ice loss along the Siberian coast was observed. We therefore address the question whether the substantial sea ice loss has contributed to the cold wave. First, applying singular value decomposition (SVD) analysis, we find strong coherence between the autumn Arctic sea ice coverage and temperatures over the central‐to‐east Asian region with the sea ice component (SVD1_SIC) reaching a record high in 2020 and displaying a decadal shift around 2005. Associated with both the interannual and decadal variations of the SVD1_SIC, there are similar circulation anomalies as described in (a), (b) and (c) above. Second, applying self‐organizing maps, wintertime daily air temperatures are clustered into nine nodes with Node‐1 mostly resembling “warm Arctic, cold Eurasia” pattern. The frequency of Node‐1 shows a similar decadal shift as observed in SVD_SIC1 above, with a correlation of about 0.56. Associated with Node‐1, the circulation anomalies are consistent with features highlighted in (a), (b) and (c) above. Thus, taking all the evidence into account, we conclude that the substantial sea ice loss along the Siberian coast contributed significantly to the 2020/2021 winter cold wave in China. The mechanism behind the contribution in this study highlights that the Arctic sea ice loss is favourable for certain circulation patterns on climate timescale, reinforcing disruptive chain of reactions on weather timescale, and leading to severe cold events.
Laser‐induced heating of porous Ge layers implanted with Ag+ and Cu+ ions
Authors: Sharafutdinova Alfia M. , Pavlikov Alexander V. , Rogov Alexey M. , Bokova‐Sirosh Sofya N. , Obraztsova Elena D. , Stepanov Andrey L.
Published: March 2022

Porous Ge layers consisting of nanowires were formed by low‐energy high‐dose implantation of monocrystalline c‐Ge substrate with Ag+ and Cu+ ions. The obtained layers were studied by Raman spectroscopy using solid‐state and He‐Ne exciting lasers with wavelength of 532 and 633 nm, respectively. The crystalline volume fraction and local temperature of porous layers at the surface sites of laser probing were determined. To interpret the change in the shape of the spectra under the action of laser radiation, deconvolution into amorphous and nanocrystalline components was carried out. Analysis of the spectral line shape made it possible to estimate the crystalline and amorphous volume fractions. The quantum confinement model for Ge nanocrystallites was taken into account for accurate estimations of volume fractions. These estimates showed that the implanted amorphous layers of all samples were locally crystallized with a solid‐state laser. He‐Ne laser excitation resulted in partial crystallization only for layers obtained by Cu+ ion implantation. The measured ratio of the Stokes to anti‐Stokes components demonstrated that the porous layers obtained by implanting Ag+ ion were not heated by a He‐Ne laser and according to the analysis of spectral lines, the crystalline volume fraction did not appear in these layers during probing. The results obtained are explained by the difference in the penetration depth for various samples of the exciting radiation.
Electronic states and vibrational structures of sym‐ and unsym‐Co3(dipyridylamine)4Cl2 using temperature‐controlled Raman and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Huang Chen‐Wei , Chen Wei‐Hao , Huang Pei‐Fang , Yang Hsueh‐Han , Cheng Ming‐Chuan , Peng Shie‐Ming , Chen I‐Chia
Published: March 2022

We employed temperature‐controlled Raman spectroscopy to obtain the vibrational structures of the linear tricobalt metal‐string complex Co3(dpa)4Cl2 (dpa = di(2‐pyridyl) amide) and to identify its low‐lying electronic states. The density functional theory (DFT) method B3LYP*‐D3 was used to obtain the molecular structures, vibrational frequencies, and electronic levels of varied spin states. Co3(dpa)4Cl2 has sym‐ and unsym‐forms of Co–Co metal bonding. The Raman intensities of pyridyl breathing bands appeared to be sensitive to the coordinated Co atom and hence could be used to identify both forms. In s‐Co3 crystal, the split pyridyl Raman breathing bands indicated both symmetric and unsymmetric forms. This is explained that the molecule populated both the 2A2 (the ground state) and possibly 2B (reduced symmetry of 2E) states even at 77 K. The 2B state is coupled to the 4B state, which has an unsymmetric Co–Co bond. As the temperature increased to 423 K, the intensity of the low‐wavenumber pyridyl breathing band further increased and was attributed to the 4B state. At 77–323 K, the Raman spectra of u‐Co3 crystal populated mostly in the 4B state. From the SERS measurements, the samples were prepared in solution phase, and u‐Co3 displayed spectral behavior similar to that of s‐Co3, implying that the global minimal geometry is a symmetric form.
Graphical Representation of Overlap for OVErviews: GROOVE tool
Authors: Bracchiglione Javier , Meza Nicolás , Bangdiwala Shrikant I. , Niño de Guzmán Ena , Urrútia Gerard , Bonfill Xavier , Madrid Eva
Published: March 2022

Overlap of primary studies among systematic reviews (SRs) is one of the main methodological challenges when conducting overviews. If not assessed properly, overlapped primary studies may mislead findings, since they may have a major influence either in qualitative analyses or in statistical weight. Moreover, overlapping SRs may represent the existence of duplicated efforts. Matrices of evidence and the calculation of the overall corrected covered area (CCA) are appropriate methods to address this issue, but they seem to be not comprehensive enough. In this article we present Graphical Representation of Overlap for OVErviews (GROOVE), an easy‐to‐use tool for overview authors. Starting from a matrix of evidence, GROOVE provides the number of included primary studies and SRs included in the matrix; the absolute number of overlapped and non‐overlapped primary studies; and an overall CCA assessment. The tool also provides a detailed CCA assessment for each possible pair of SRs (or “nodes”), with a graphical and easy‐to‐read representation of these results. Additionally, it includes an advanced optional usage, incorporating structural missingness in the matrix. In this article, we show the details about how to use GROOVE, what results it achieves and how the tool obtains these results. GROOVE is intended to improve the overlap assessment by making it easier, faster, and more friendly for both authors and readers. The tool is freely available at http://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/U2MS4 and https://es.cochrane.org/es/groovetool
Pleiotropic cancer manifestations of germline CDH1 mutations: Risks and management
Authors: Corso Giovanni
Published: March 2022

Germline CDH1 defects are related with the development of multiple cancers due its pleiotropic nature. These several conditions are associated with various risks of penetrance and with different clinical management strategies. In this clinical review, we described the penetrance risks of gastric, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers, in CDH1 carriers, within as well as outside the familial setting, and the best approaches to manage each risk, using either prophylactic surgery or surveillance.
Less dropout from prolonged exposure sessions prescribed at least twice weekly: A meta‐analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Levinson Daniel B. , Halverson Tate F. , Wilson Sarah M. , Fu Rongwei
Published: March 2022

Trauma‐focused psychotherapies, such as prolonged exposure (PE), are strongly recommended to treat posttraumatic stress disorder due to their effects in reducing symptoms. However, such therapies may also suffer from high dropout rates. To investigate how clients might benefit from trauma‐focused therapy while minimizing dropout, we conducted a meta‐analysis of 1,508 adults from 35 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of outpatient PE programs to evaluate treatment frequency as a predictor of dropout. When an RCT prescribed PE sessions at least twice weekly compared to less frequently, the dropout rate was significantly lower at 21.0%, 95% CI [13.9%, 30.4%], compared to 34.0%, 95% CI [28.9%, 39.4%], OR = 0.52, 95% CI [0.30, 0.89], p = .018. It was not possible to draw causal conclusions, as only one RCT compared two PE treatment frequencies head‐to‐head. Nonetheless, the findings remained significant after controlling for study characteristics. These data invite reconsideration of the common practice of weekly psychotherapy in favor of twice‐weekly sessions in standard outpatient treatment.
Validation of the aMAP score to predict hepatocellular carcinoma development in a cohort of alcohol‐related cirrhosis patients
Authors: Liu Ken , Yip Terry C. F. , Masson Steven , Fateen Waleed , Schwantes‐An Tae‐Hwi , McCaughan Geoffrey W. , Morgan Timothy R. , Aithal Guruprasad P. , Seth Devanshi
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

The aMAP score was recently devised to predict hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. However, its performance was not tested in alcohol‐related cirrhosis (ALC). We aimed to validate the aMAP score in a cohort of ALC patients.

Method

Study participants with ALC from a prior genome‐wide association study were included. All participants had a history of high alcohol consumption. Cirrhosis was defined clinically, using fibroscan and/or histology. Patients were followed until the last liver imaging, HCC, liver transplantation (LT) or death with the latter two adjusted as competing risks.

Results

A total of 269 ALC patients were included: male (72.5%), Caucasian (98.9%), median age 56 years, and median Child‐Pugh score 7. The median aMAP score was 60: 12.3% low‐risk, 35.3% medium‐risk and 52.4% high‐risk. After a median follow‐up of 41 months, 14 patients developed HCC, 27 received LT and 104 died. The aMAP score predicted HCC development (hazard ratio 1.12 per point increase, P < .001) with good separation of cumulative incidence function between risk groups. The area under the time‐dependent receiver operating characteristics curve for predicting HCC development was 0.83 at 1 year and 0.82 at 5 years which was similar to ADRESS‐HCC and Veterans Affairs Healthcare System scores respectively.

Conclusions

We validated the excellent performance of the aMAP score in ALC and affirm its applicability across wider aetiologies.
Accurate spectrophotometric pH measurements made directly in the sample bottle using an aggregated dye perturbation approach
Authors: Takeshita Yuichiro , Mertz Keaton L. , Norgaard Addie , Gray Sara , Verburg Maddie H. , Bockmon Emily E.
Published: March 2022

Spectrophotometric pH measurements of seawater (pHspec) are routinely made by the oceanographic community for a wide variety of studies. However, obtaining consistent measurements between laboratories that meet stringent thresholds such as the “weather” (± 0.02) and “climate” (± 0.003) standards, has been a challenge. One of the main sources of error for pHspec measurements is gas exchange of carbon dioxide during sample handling. Here, we present a simple method where pHspec measurements on the total scale are made directly in the sampling bottle, which minimizes sample handling errors because the solution is not transferred during analysis. We compared the performance of this method to a standard automated benchtop system on a hydrography cruise, and the two methods were consistent to 0.003 ± 0.0033 (1σ). This demonstrates that this simple method can produce pHspec that approaches climate quality, and comfortably meets weather quality standards. Additional benefits include high sample throughput, and the ability to rapidly quantify dye perturbation effects for each sample. The latter should be particularly useful for low salinity samples such as those taken from estuaries, insofar as modifications specific to the pHspec measurements of estuarine waters are employed.
Simulated rain exposures can mimic long‐term metal runoff at atmospheric conditions—A case study on naturally and prepatinated zinc sheet
Authors: Herting Gunilla , Saarimaa Ville , Heydari Golrokh , Kaleva Aaretti , Sundell Per‐Erik , Odnevall Inger
Published: March 2022

Short‐ and long‐term zinc runoff are studied at field and laboratory conditions to show that a laboratory setup can simulate field conditions and to investigate how prepatination influences the zinc runoff process. Results from four differently patinated zinc surfaces exposed at laboratory conditions, seven consecutive individual 4‐h rain events, and exposure at field conditions for 2 years show that the laboratory setup does simulate field conditions provided that the limitations of the laboratory are considered. It is also determined through corrosion product characterization that denser established corrosion products (patina) have a lower runoff than bulky porous or newly formed corrosion products.
Effect of Pyrolysis Carbon Black from Waste Tire on the Mechanical Properties of SSBR/BR Blend
Authors: Zhang Guojie , Zhang Yong , Wang Shifeng , Jiang Yang
Published: March 2022

Pyrolysis carbon black (PCB) is a main product during the pyrolysis of waste tires. Using PCB to partially replace carbon black has drawn great attention. Herein, PCB is used to replace commercial carbon black N234 in a solution‐polymerized styrene‐butadiene rubber (SSBR)/butadiene rubber (BR)/silica compound used for tire treads. The influence of liquid polyisoprene (LIR) on the SSBR/BR/silica compound is studied. The scorch time of the compound is prolonged and the curing rate increases when N234 is partially replaced by PCB, and the processing performance of the compound is improved after the addition of LIR. As N234 is partially replaced by PCB, the addition of LIR can increase the tensile strength and elongation at break of SSBR/BR/silica vulcanizates, and improve their ageing resistance. When 50% N234 is replaced by PCB in the presence of LIR, the rolling resistance and wet grip of SSBR/BR/silica vulcanizate are improved, while the abrasion resistance slightly decreased. In the presence of liquid polyisoprene, PCB can be successfully used to partially replace common carbon black in tire rubber compounds without compromising properties.
Synthesis of Inherently Fluorescent Core–Shell Nanoparticles for Cell Imaging and Targeting Therapy: An In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Qu Jian‐Bo , Li Gang‐Feng , Li Yu‐Jie , Sun Yong‐Jun , Ma Xiqi , Che Huan‐Jie , Li Yue , Sui Xin‐Yi , Wang Xiaojuan
Published: March 2022

Fluorescent polymer nanoparticles (NPs) have great potential as bioimaging and therapeutic agents in the biomedical field. Here, a subtle method is developed to synthesize inherently fluorescent core–shell NPs with diameters less than 100 nm. The permanent fluorescence comes from the rigid conjugated structure between benzene and chloromethyl groups in the crosslinked poly(chloromethylstyrene) (PCMSt) core, which is able to be applied for the determination of Fe3+ with a detection limit of 1.39 × 10−6 m. It is further demonstrated that the galactose modification (poly (6‐O‐acryloyl‐d‐galactose), PADGal) shell can efficiently· facilitate the selective internalization of NPs by human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2), and the cells are more prone to uptake the NPs with medium crosslinking degree. The hydrophobic anticancer drug 10‐hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) is then loaded onto PADGal@PCMSt NPs. Benefiting from the specific interactions between asialoglycoprotein (ASGP) receptors and the galactose moiety, the PADGal@PCMSt NPs can deliver HCPT with the highest efficiency to HepG2 cells in comparison with the human cervical cancer cells (HeLa), the human alveolar adenocarcinoma basal epithelial cells (A549), the mouse breast cancer cells (4T1), and the mouse fibroblast cells (NIH3T3). The present study provides a new strategy to build small‐size fluorescent polymer NPs with both bioimaging and therapeutic functions.
Principal spectral theory of time‐periodic nonlocal dispersal operators of Neumann type
Authors: Vo Hoang‐Hung
Published: March 2022

In this communication, we prove some limits of the principal eigenvalue for nonlocal operator of Neumann type with respect to the parameters, which are significant in the understanding of dynamics of biological populations. We obtain a complete picture about limits of the principal eigenvalue in term of the large and small dispersal rate and dispersal range classified by “Ecological Stable Strategy” of persistence. This solves some open problems remainning in the series of work [3, 32, 30], in which we have to overcome the new difficulties comparing to [3, 32, 30] since principal eigenvalue of a nonlocal Neumann operator is not monotone with respect to the domain. The maximum principle for this type of operator is also achieved in this paper.
The influence of anthropomorphic cues in retailing: The moderating effect of the vice versus virtue products
Authors: Londoño Juan C. , Ruiz de Maya Salvador
Published: March 2022

In retail environments, consumers are constantly exposed to in‐store marketing communication activities. However, relatively little is known about the attribution of human traits to this communication tool. The current research focuses on how anthropomorphizing retail cues such as dump bins influences consumer behavior and the moderating effect of the vice‐virtue character of the displayed products. Using eye‐tracking technology in an ecological shopping environment, we tracked shoppers' gazes through the store and analyzed their visual attention. Results show that attaching anthropomorphic forms to dump bins positively affects attitudes toward the displayed products. In addition, we demonstrate that displaying a vice product in an anthropomorphic dump bin increases both attitude toward the product and purchase intention, compared to the display of a virtue product. These findings suggest that anthropomorphism has an empathy‐helping underlying psychological mechanism that, when applied to retail communication activities, can contribute to justifying the purchase of vice products.
Thermal Reprocessing and Closed‐Loop Chemical Recycling of Styrene‐Butadiene Rubber Enabled by Exchangeable and Cleavable Acetal Linkages
Authors: Zhang Ganggang , Tian Chenru , Feng Haoran , Tan Tianwei , Wang Runguo , Zhang Liqun
Published: March 2022

The covalent cross‐linking is an essential prerequisite for achieving the unique entropic elasticity of rubber products; however, the formation of a 3D cross‐linked network and permanent cross‐links makes thermosetting rubbers difficult to be recycled, causing serious environmental pollution at the end of their life. Herein, a facile, green, and promising strategy to introduce the exchangeable and cleavable acetal bonds into the chemically cross‐linked networks of diene‐typed rubbers is reported. For the first time, the hydroxyl‐functionalized styrene‐butadiene rubber (ESBR‐HEMA) is prepared by introducing 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) during the emulsion polymerization of styrene‐butadiene rubber (ESBR). Then, based on hydroxyl‐vinyl ether addition reactions, divinyl ether (DVE) could serve as a cross‐linking agent to facilely and effectively cross‐link hydroxyl‐functionalized rubbers without additional additives, producing exchangeable and hydrolyzable acetal linkages. What's more, the acetal‐containing cross‐linked network in ESBR‐HEMA vulcanizates could rearrange their topologies at elevated temperatures, endowing them with malleable and thermal reprocessing abilities. Moreover, the hydrolyzable acetal bonds could be selectively cleaved into hydroxyl and aldehyde groups in acidic conditions, resulting in a closed‐loop chemical recycling of the ESBR‐HEMA rubber. Hence, this work provides a facile and green cross‐linking strategy for hydroxyl‐functionalized rubbers to address the inherent problems brought from the covalent cross‐linking of rubbers.
Green Synthesis of Carbon Nitride‐Based Conjugated Copolymer for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Tetracycline
Authors: Hu Zhen , Liu Ning , He Panpan , Bai Huiying , Hao Liang , Min Jiakang , Fan Zifen , Chen Bingyu , Niu Ran , Gong Jiang
Published: March 2022

Upcycling waste plastics into advanced semiconductor photocatalysts provides a new strategy to reasonably and economically solve the huge amount of waste plastics, which remains challenging. Herein, a carbon nitride‐based donor–acceptor (D–A) conjugated copolymer by copolymerization of dicyandiamide and terephthalic acid from discarded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using Zn(OH)2as catalyst and template at 360–440 °C is synthesized. The morphology and structure of the conjugated copolymer are well regulated by the calcination temperature. The resultant conjugated copolymer exhibits merits of high light absorption and low electron–hole recombination probability. Consequently, it works excellently in the persulfate‐based advanced oxidation process for visible light‐driven photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline. The kinetic constant (3.4 × 10−2 min−1) is 40.5 and 2.3 times that of the conjugated copolymer system and persulfate system, respectively. Furthermore, the reactive species (including •OH, SO4•−, •O2−,1O2, and h+) and degradation intermediates of tetracycline are analyzed to expound its degradation process. This work not only pioneers design guidelines on upcycling of waste plastics in a sustainable manner, but also provides a facile strategy to synthesize carbon nitride‐based D–A conjugated copolymers for the efficient activation of persulfate‐based advanced oxidation process in wastewater treatment.
Spastic Paraplegia Type 7 and Movement Disorders: Beyond the Spastic Paraplegia
Authors: Sáenz‐Farret Michel , Lang Anthony E. , Kalia Lorraine , Cunha Inês , Sousa Mário , Kuhlman Greg , Ganos Christos , Munhoz Renato P. , Fasano Alfonso , Piña‐Avilés Carlos Eduardo , Zúñiga‐Ramírez Carlos
Published: March 2022

Background

Spastic paraplegia type 7 (SPG7) mutations can present either as a pure form or a complex phenotype with movement disorders.

Objective

Describe the main features of subjects with SPG7 mutations associated with movement disorders.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical and paraclinical information of subjects with SPG7 mutations associated with movement disorders.

Results

Sixteen affected subjects from 11 families were identified. Male sex predominated (10 of 16) and the mean age at onset was 41.25 ± 16.1 years. A cerebellar syndrome was the most frequent clinical movement disorder phenotype (7 of 16); however, parkinsonism (2 of 16), dystonia (1 of 16), and mixed phenotypes between them were also seen. The “ears of the lynx” sign was found in four subjects. A total of nine SPG7 variants were found, of which the most frequent was the c.1529C > T (p.Ala510Val).

Conclusion

This case series expands the motor phenotype associated with SPG7 mutations. Clinicians must consider this entity in single or familial cases with combined movement disorders.
Stochastic optimal analysis for the hepatitis B epidemic model with Markovian switching
Authors: Din Anwarud , Li Yongjin
Published: March 2022

A new stochastic epidemic model is introduced, explaining the dynamics of hepatitis B with the inclusion of white noise, Markovian switching, and vaccination control. In this research, we prove the existence of a unique global positive solution for the model. We also formulated an appropriate “stochastic Lyapunov” operator and used the “Khasminskii” approach to prove that the model has unique stationary distribution. The extinction of the model is also investigated. We study an optimal control problem for the stochastic model. Finally, the numerical experiments are presented to illustrate the obtained results.