bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecularly Distorted Local Structure in Bi2CuO4 Oxide to Stabilize Lattice Oxygen for Efficient Formate Electrosynthesis
Authors: Liu Yuanwei , Lou Zhen Xin , Wu Xuefeng , Mei Bingbao , Chen Jiacheng , Zhao Jia Yue , Li Ji , Yuan Hai Yang , Zhu Minghui , Dai Sheng , Sun Chenghua , Liu Peng Fei , Jiang Zheng , Yang Hua Gui
Published: August 2022

The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) provides an economically feasible way for converting green energy into valuable chemical feedstocks and fuels. Great progress has been achieved in the understanding and synthesis of oxidized‐based precatalysts; however, their dynamical changes of local structure under operando conditions still hinder their further applications. Here a molecularly distorted Bi2CuO4 precatalyst for efficient CO2‐to‐formate conversion is reported. X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) results and theoretical calculations suggest that the distorted structure with molecularly like [CuO4]6− unit rotation is more conducive to the structural stability of the sample. Operando XAFS and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) results prove that quite a bit of lattice oxygen can remain in the distorted sample after CO2RR. Electrochemical measurements of the distorted sample show an excellent activity and selectivity with a high formate partial current density of 194.6 mA cm−2 at an extremely low overpotential of −400 mV. Further in situ surface‐enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (SEIRAS) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations illustrate that the retained oxygen can optimize the adsorption of *OCHO intermediate for the enhanced CO2RR performance.
Sensitively Site‐Dependent Enhancement of Emissions from Ge Quantum Dots in SiGe Microdisks
Authors: Zhang Ningning , Chen Peizong , Yan Jia , Peng Kun , Wang Liming , Hu Huiyong , Jiang Zuimin , Zhong Zhenyang
Published: August 2022

Herein, the unique emission properties of Ge quantum dots (QDs) SiGe microdisk system are reported on Si substrates. Two types of microdisks embedded with random QDs and radial site‐controlled QDs are realized by top–down and bottom–up methods, respectively. Photoluminescence results demonstrate that the maximum enhancement factor (EF) of emissions from radial site‐controlled QDs is ≈5.2 times of that from random QDs in microdisks. Moreover, the EF dramatically depends on the site of QD in a microdisk. For a single QD in a microdisk, the difference of EF can be more than five orders due to radial site‐dependent Purcell effect. For multiple QDs in a microdisk, both the azimuthal site and the number of QDs also substantially affect EF due to the interference effect of QDs’ emissions coupling into the cavity modes of microdisks. These unique features disclose the critical effect of the spatial matching between the QD site and the cavity mode on light–matter interactions in a microdisk. In addition, the microdisk via the bottom–up method can efficiently suppress nonradiative losses at the sidewall of microdisk. A promising strategy to QDs’ microdisk system is provided in the results, which promises strong coupling between QDs and the cavity modes and the realization of innovative light sources.
Upper motor neuron signs and early onset gait abnormalities in young children with bi‐allelic VWA1 variants
Authors: Gable Dustin L. , Mo Alisa , Estrella Elicia , Saffari Afshin , Ghosh Partha S. , Ebrahimi‐Fakhari Darius
Published: August 2022

Bi‐allelic loss‐of‐function variants in Von Willebrand factor type A (VWA1) were recently discovered to lead to an early onset motor neuropathy or neuromyopathy. What makes this discovery particularly notable is the high frequency of one of the VWA1 (NM_022834.5) founder variants, c.62_71dup (p.Gly25ArgfsTer74), which nears 0.01% in European populations, and suggests that there may be a wide spectrum of disease features and severity. Here, we report two cases from nonconsanguineous families in North America that presented in early childhood with lower extremity weakness and prominent foot deformities, and were found to carry bi‐allelic variants in VWA1. We draw focus to upper motor neuron signs and abnormal gait phenotypes as presenting symptoms in VWA1‐related disorder and expand the clinical and molecular spectrum.
Overexpressed PKM2 promotes macrophage phagocytosis and atherosclerosis
Authors: Gai Xiaochen , Liu Fangming , Wu Yuting , Zhang Baohui , Tang Bufu , Shang Kezhuo , Wang Lianmei , Zhang Haihong , Chen Yixin , Yang Shuhui , Deng Weiwei , Li Peng , Wang Jing , Zhang Hongbing
Published: August 2022

Background

The expression of pyruvate kinase muscle 2 (PKM2) is augmented in macrophages of patients with atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. The role of PKM2 in atherosclerosis is to be determined.

Methods

Global and myeloid cell‐specific PKM2 knock‐in mice with ApoE−/− background (ApoE−/−, PKM2KI/KI and Lyz2‐cre, ApoE−/−, and PKM2flox/flox) were produced to evaluate the clinical significance of PKM2 in atherosclerosis development. Wild‐type and PKM2 knock‐in macrophages were isolated to assess the function of PKM2 in macrophage phagocytosis. Atherosclerotic mice were treated with PKM2 inhibitor shikonin (SKN) to evaluate the therapeutic potential of PKM2 suppression in atherosclerosis.

Results

Oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL) upregulated PKM2 in macrophages. PKM2 in return promoted the uptake of oxLDL by macrophages. Overexpressed PKM2 accelerated atherosclerosis in mice. SKN blocked the progress of mouse atherosclerosis.

Conclusions

PKM2 accelerates macrophage phagocytosis and atherosclerosis. Targeting PKM2 is a potential therapy for atherosclerosis.
Polyol and polyurethane containing bisphenol‐Z: Synthesis and application for toughening epoxy
Authors: Lee Da Young , Kim Hye Jin , Kim Hyeon‐Gook , Lim Choong‐Sun , Chung Ildoo , Seo Bongkuk
Published: August 2022

Despite their excellent properties, epoxy resins have the disadvantage of low toughness. With the aim to improve the toughness of epoxy resin, polyol and polyurethane are synthesized using bisphenol‐Z (BPZ). The synthesized material is dispersed in the epoxy resin and used as a toughening agent. Polyol (modified bisphenol‐Z [MBPZ]‐OH) is synthesized by a ring‐opening polymerization of propylene oxide and caprolactone, and polyurethane (MBPZ‐PU) is synthesized by a one‐shot method using MBPZ‐OH and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI). The effect of MBPZ‐PU on the mechanical strength of the epoxy resin is analyzed by monitoring the flexural and impact characteristics. The addition of the synthesized MBPZ‐PU improves the tensile strength, flexural strength, flexibility, and impact strength of the cured epoxy composite. Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy measurements indicate that the fracture surface had a specific pattern. Thermal properties such as the curing temperature, glass transition temperature (Tg), and modulus are investigated through differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, and thermomechanical analysis. Based on the results, MBPZ‐PU is expected to be applied to a wider field for increasing the toughness of epoxy.
An improved approach to synthesis of Markov jump nonlinear systems with generally uncertain transition rates
Authors: Guo Yafeng
Published: August 2022

This paper concentrates on state‐feedback control problem for a kind of Markov jump nonlinear systems with generally uncertain transition rates. The nonlinearity satisfies the sector condition, which is more generic than the ordinary Lipschitz nonlinearity. First, a performance criterion is derived for the closed‐loop systems. Next, based on the proposed performance criterion and a judicious method of using inequalities, a novel controller synthesis method is developed in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Compared with the existing result, the proposed method significantly reduces the conservativeness of the controller synthesis. Finally, a numerical example is provided to show the validity and merit of the developed result.
A primary squamous cell carcinoma of the sigmoid colon in a young patient: A case report and literature review
Authors: Faisal Mohanad , Abdalhadi Ahmed , Karzoun M. Zaki , Mohamed Mohamed Aboagla Suliman , Sharaf Elden Mouhammad Zuhair , Shablak Alaaeldin
Published: August 2022

Colon cancer is among the most common types of cancer with adenocarcinomas being the most common type. Herein we report a young patient who presented with primary colonic squamous cell carcinoma without risk factors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the youngest patient with such diagnosis worldwide.
Solar Driven Gas Phase Advanced Oxidation Processes for Methane Removal ‐ Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: Zhang Jie , Wang Yuyin , Wang Yun , Bai Yang , Feng Xin , Zhu Jiahua , Lu Xiaohua , Mu Liwen , Ming Tingzhen , de Richter Renaud , Li Wei
Published: August 2022

Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas and the second highest contributor to global warming. CH4 emissions are still growing at an alarmingly high pace. To limit global warming to 1.5 °C, one of the most effective strategies is to reduce rapidly the CH4 emissions by developing large‐scale methane removal methods. The purpose of this perspective paper is threefold. (1) To highlight the technology gap dealing with low concentration CH4 (at many emission sources and in the atmosphere). (2) To analyze the challenges and prospects of solar‐driven gas phase advanced oxidation processes for CH4 removal. And (3) to propose some ideas, which may help to develop solar‐driven gas phase advanced oxidation processes and make them deployable at a climate significant scale.
Screening of Heterogeneous Photocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Schwarze Michael , Thiel Tabea A. , Rana Adeem G. , Yang Jin , Acharjya Amitava , Nguyen Anh Dung , Tameu Djoko Simon , Kutorglo Edith M. , Tasbihi Minoo , Minceva Mirjana , Huseyinova Shahana , Menezes Prashanth , Walter Carsten , Driess Matthias , Schomäcker Reinhard , Thomas Arne
Published: August 2022

In this contribution, a simple method for the screening of photocatalytic activity of catalyst materials is presented. The method is based on two steps: the immobilization of the photocatalyst and the subsequent testing of their photocatalytic activity, using the gas evolution at the solid‐liquid interface. Up to four catalysts can be tested under the same conditions. The observed gas evolution for selected photocatalysts is consistent with trends reported in the literature from conventional photocatalytic reactors.
Intimal macrophages develop from circulating monocytes during vasculitis
Authors: Stock Angus T , Parsons Sarah , Sharma Varun J , James Fiona , Starkey Graham , D'Costa Rohit , Gordon Claire L , Wicks Ian P
Published: August 2022

Objective

Vasculitis is characterised by inflammation of the blood vessels. While all layers of the vessel can be affected, inflammation within the intimal layer can trigger thrombosis and arterial occlusion and is therefore of particular clinical concern. Given this pathological role, we have examined how intimal inflammation develops by exploring which (and how) macrophages come to populate this normally immune‐privileged site during vasculitis.

Methods

We have addressed this question for Kawasaki disease (KD), which is a type of vasculitis in children that typically involves the coronary arteries. We used confocal microscopy and flow cytometry to characterise the macrophages that populate the coronary artery intima in KD patient samples and in a mouse model of KD, and furthermore, have applied an adoptive transfer system to trace how these intimal macrophages develop.

Results

In KD patients, intimal hyperplasia coincided with marked macrophage infiltration of the coronary artery intima. Phenotypic analysis revealed that these ‘intimal macrophages’ did not express markers of resident cardiac macrophages, such as Lyve‐1, and instead, were uniformly positive for the chemokine receptor Ccr2, suggesting a monocytic lineage. In support of this origin, we show that circulating monocytes directly invade the intima via transluminal migration during established disease, coinciding with the activation of endothelial cells lining the coronary arteries.

Conclusions

During KD, intimal macrophages develop from circulating monocytes that infiltrate the inflamed coronary artery intima by transluminal migration.
Minimally invasive cytologic evaluation leading to the diagnosis of TFE3‐rearranged renal cell carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Gama Alcino , Sukhanova Madina , Choy Bonnie
Published: August 2022

TFE3‐rearranged renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has been categorized as a molecularly defined renal carcinoma in the 2022 WHO classification of tumors as it does not demonstrate a specific genotype–phenotype correlation. However, in order to arrive at the diagnosis, recognition of the broad spectrum of cytologic and histologic features that can be seen in TFE3‐rearranged RCC is important for differential diagnostic consideration. Reported here is the diagnostic workup of a TFE3‐rearranged RCC using very limited tissue sample. The initial evaluation was dependent on the cytomorphologic findings observed on a touch preparation made from the renal mass biopsy, directing appropriate selection of ancillary tests, and leading to a definitive diagnosis.
Prognostic impact of complex karyotype on post‐transplant outcomes of myelofibrosis
Authors: Okada Yosuke , Takenaka Katsuto , Murata Makoto , Shimazu Yutaka , Tachibana Takayoshi , Ozawa Yukiyasu , Uchida Naoyuki , Wakayama Toshio , Doki Noriko , Sugio Yasuhiro , Tanaka Masatsugu , Masuko Masayoshi , Kobayashi Hikaru , Ino Kazuko , Ishikawa Jun , Nakamae Hirohisa , Matsuoka Ken‐ichi , Kanda Yoshinobu , Fukuda Takahiro , Atsuta Yoshiko , Nagamura‐Inoue Tokiko
Published: August 2022

Chromosomal abnormalities in the role of prognostic factor for transplant patients with myelofibrosis (MF) are not fully investigated. Regarding complex karyotype (CK), we retrospectively analyzed 241 patients with primary and secondary MF who received a first allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Based on an unfavorable karyotype in the Dynamic International Prognostic Scoring System, we compared the outcomes in 3 groups: favorable karyotype, unfavorable karyotype including CK (unfavorable‐CK(+)), and unfavorable karyotype not including CK (unfavorable‐CK(–)). Overall survival was significantly shorter in the unfavorable‐CK(+) group (hazard ratio (HR) 2.49, 95% CI: 1.46–4.24, P < 0.001), whereas there was no difference between the unfavorable‐CK(–) group and the favorable group (HR 0.57, 95% CI: 0.20–1.59, P = 0.28). In addition, a significantly higher proportion of patients in the unfavorable‐CK(+) group did not achieve complete remission after HCT (P = 0.007). The cumulative incidence of disease progression was significantly higher in the unfavorable‐CK(+) group (HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.6–3.92, P < 0.001), whereas that in the unfavorable‐CK(–) group was comparable to that in the favorable group (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.12–1.94, P = 0.31). Further investigations will be needed to clarify the impact of CK on transplant outcomes in MF.
Crowdsourcing homemade facemasks: 772 U.S. health facilities’ responses to personal protective equipment shortages in the first half of 2020
Authors: Ghalachyan Armine , Ivanitskaya Lana V.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

We examined 772 U.S. health facilities' responses to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) shortages in the first half of 2020, as they crowdsourced face coverings from volunteer makers to be used as respiratory protection during crisis surge capacity. The purpose was to examine facemask specification requests from health facilities and develop a framework for crowdsourcing last resort PPE.

Design/methodology/approach

Homemade facemask donation requests from health facilities in 47 states systematically recorded in a public database maintained by public health graduate students at a major U.S. university were analysed. Open coding was used to content analyse facemask types and specifications, intended uses, delivery logistics and donation management strategies.

Findings

Our analysis revealed information gaps: Science‐based information was scarce in 2020, leading to improvised specifications for facemask materials and designs. It also revealed the emergence of a crowdsourcing structure: Task specifications for volunteer facemasks makers, delivery logistics, and practical management of donations within the pandemic context. In anticipation of future pandemics and localised PPE shortages, we build on this empirical evidence to propose a framework for crowdsourcing science‐informed facemasks from volunteers. Categorised within (a) logistics and workflow management, (b) task specifications and management, and (c) practical management of contributions functional areas, the framework outlines the required tasks and specifications for crowdsourcing.

Originality

A novel empirically derived framework for crowdsourcing homemade facemasks is proposed, based on empirical analysis and crowdsourcing system design strategies. Our findings and the framework may be used for refining crisis capacity guidelines, as part of strategic planning and preparation for future pandemics that disrupt supply chains and cause shortages in protective equipment.
Experiences of parents of children with psychiatric disorder from Covid‐19 pandemic and its related quarantine: A qualitative study
Authors: Samani Nastaran , Davari Ashtiani Rozita , Kheradmand Ali , Arabgol Fariba
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Owing to the considerable mortality caused by Covid‐19, different countries have made some decisions for dealing with this virus, one of which was quarantine. It was shown that a range of behavioral and emotional changes may exacerbate in children while staying more at home, and parents may then experience these positive or negative behavioral changes. The present study was conducted to examine the experiences of families with children with psychiatric disorders in a psychiatric outpatient clinic in Iran.

Method

The phenomenological method, which is a qualitative approach, was used in this study. The population was the parents of children with psychiatric disorders referred to the pediatric psychiatric clinic of Imam Hossein Hospital. Sampling was purposeful, which continued until data saturation. Finally, the number of included participants reached 14. As well, the Colaizzi method was used for data analysis.

Results

The results of this study included 12 secondary codes and 10 tertiary codes, which were divided into three main thematic groups as follows: effective factors for improving behavior, effective factors for worsening behavior, and affective factors on creating a new behavior during quarantine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, quarantine, social restrictions, closure of schools, and online classes can affect the mental health status of children and adolescents in different ways, especially in children with a history of psychiatric disorders.
Skilled maternal healthcare and good essential newborn care practice in rural Bangladesh: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jamee Ahsan Rahman , Kumar Sen Kanchan , Bari Wasimul
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

Essential newborn care (ENC) practices play an important role in reducing the risk of infant mortality and morbidity. Therefore, more studies are needed on ENC practices. Skilled maternal healthcare can be a good strategy to increase the practice. Learn about the independent and joint effects of skilled maternal healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth on newborn care practices.

Methods

The study used a cross‐sectional data obtained from Bangladesh Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, 2019. To investigate the association between maternal healthcare utilization and good ENC practice (cord care, delayed bathing, and immediate breast‐feeding), χ2 test and t‐test in bivariate and binary logistic regression analysis, respectively have been performed after taking into account complex survey design.

Results

Only about 24% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 22.95%–25.89%) women given birth at home in rural Bangladesh followed good newborn care practice. The results obtained from adjusted regression analysis showed that a woman was 24%, 49%, and 75% more likely of having good ENC practice if she received four or more skilled checkups during antenatal period only (adjusted odds ratios [AOR]: 1.24, 95% CI: 0.97, 1.60), received assistance from SBA during delivery only (AOR: 1.49, 95% CI 1.12, 1.97) and received skilled healthcare in both pregnancy and delivery (AOR: 1.75, 95% CI 1.13, 2.71), respectively compared to a woman who did not get an opportunity to receive skilled healthcare during pregnancy and delivery. Among the selected confounders, maternal age at birth, birth order, education of household heads and religion showed a significant association with good ENC practice.

Conclusion

The study revealed that proper maternal healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth from skilled health personnel can improve the rate of ENC practices. For this, more training programs should be started, especially at the community level, and health promotion activities are needed to create awareness about efficient maternal healthcare practices.
MicroRNA‐520c‐3p impacts sphingolipid metabolism mediating PI3K/AKT signaling in NSCLC: Systems perspective
Authors: Gulhane Pooja , Singh Shailza
Published: August 2022

Increasing research suggests that sphingolipid metabolism is essential for the progression and metastasis of cancer. The underlying mechanistic insight into the dysregulation of sphingolipid metabolism affecting pathways is poorly investigated. As a result, the goal of the current study was to glean knowledge from the systems biology approach to investigate how the sphingolipid metabolism affects the signal transduction network in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most common type of cancer in terms of occurrence and death globally. Our paper includes system‐level models representing the diseased and healthy states elucidating that sphingolipids and its enzymes mediate PI3K/AKT pathway. Notably, its activation of downstream signaling mediators has led to cancer growth. Considering the critical role of sphingolipids in NSCLC, our study advocates the target CERS6 which can be potentially inhibited using hsa‐miR‐520c‐3p to combat NSCLC for future precision medicine.
Volume‐Controlled 19F MR Ventilation Imaging of Fluorinated Gas
Authors: Obert Arnd J. , Kern Agilo L. , Gutberlet Marcel , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Kaireit Till F. , Crisosto Cristian , Greer Mark , Krause E. Tobias , Wacker Frank , Vogel‐Claussen Jens
Published: August 2022

Background

19F MRI of inhaled gas tracers has developed into a promising tool for pulmonary diagnostics. Prior to clinical use, the intersession repeatability of acquired ventilation parameters must be quantified and maximized.

Purpose

To evaluate repeatability of static and dynamic 19F ventilation parameters and correlation with predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1%pred) with and without inspiratory volume control.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

A total of 30 healthy subjects and 26 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Field Strength/Sequence

Three‐dimensional (3D) gradient echo pulse sequence with golden‐angle stack‐of‐stars k‐space encoding at 1.5 T.

Assessment

All study participants underwent 19F ventilation MRI over eight breaths with inspiratory volume control (w VC) and without inspiratory volume control (w/o VC), which was repeated within 1 week. Ventilated volume percentage (VVP), fractional ventilation (FV), and wash‐in time (WI) were computed. Lung function testing was conducted on the first visit.

Statistical Tests

Correlation between imaging and FEV1%pred was measured using Pearson correlation coefficient (r). Differences in imaging parameters between first and second visit were analyzed using paired t‐test. Repeatability was quantified using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CoV). Minimum detectable effect size (MDES) was calculated with a power analysis for study size n = 30 and a power of 0.8. All hypotheses were tested with a significance level of 5% two sided.

Results

Strong and moderate linear correlations with FEV1%pred for COPD patients were found in almost all imaging parameters. The ICC w VC exceeds the ICC w/o VC for all imaging parameters. CoV was significantly lower w VC for initial VVP in COPD patients, FV, CoV FV, WI and standard deviation (SD) of WI. MDES of all imaging parameters were smaller w VC.

Data Conclusion

19F gas wash‐in MRI with inspiratory volume control increases the correlation and repeatability of imaging parameters with lung function testing.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Measuring the margin distance in pulmonary wedge resection
Authors: Wolf Andrea , Laskey Daniel , Yip Rowena , Beasley Mary B. , Yankelevitz David F. , Henschke Claudia I. ,   For the IELCART Investigators
Published: August 2022

Background

Margin distance contributes to survival and recurrence during wedge resections for early‐stage non‐small cell lung cancer. The Initiative for Early Lung Cancer Research on Treatment sought to standardize a surgeon‐measured margin intraoperatively.

Methods

Lung cancer patients who underwent wedge resection were reviewed. Margins were measured by the surgeon twice as per a standardized protocol. Intraobserver variability as well as surgeon–pathologist variability were compared.

Results

Forty‐five patients underwent wedge resection. Same‐surgeon measurement analysis indicated good reliability with a small mean difference and narrow limit of agreement for the two measures. The median surgeon‐measured margin was 18.0 mm, median pathologist‐measured margin was 16.0 mm and the median difference between the surgeon–pathologist margin was −1.0 mm, ranging from −18.0 to 12.0 mm. Bland–Altman analysis for margin measurements demonstrated a mean difference of 0.65 mm. The limit of agreement for the two approaches were wide, with the difference lying between −16.25 and 14.96 mm.

Conclusions

A novel protocol of surgeon‐measured margin was evaluated and compared with pathologist‐measured margin. High intraobserver agreement for repeat surgeon measurements yet low‐to‐moderate correlation or directionality between surgeon and pathologic measurements were found.

Discussion

A standardized protocol may reduce variability in pathologic assessment. These findings have critical implications considering the impact of margin distance on outcomes.
Validated liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry method for the quantification of glycogenolysis phosphorylase inhibitor in mouse tissues – 5‐isopropyl‐4‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐1‐ethyl‐1,4‐dihydro‐6‐methyl‐2,3,5‐pyridinetricarboxylic acid ester disodium salt hydrate
Authors: Pudelko‐Malik Natalia , Wiśniewski Jerzy , Drulis‐Fajdasz Dominika , Mlynarz Piotr
Published: August 2022

5‐Isopropyl‐4‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐1‐ethyl‐1,4‐dihydro‐6‐methyl‐2,3,5‐pyridinetricarboxylic acid ester disodium salt hydrate, is a noncompetitive inhibitor of glycogen phosphorylase – a critical enzyme in the process of glycogenolysis. This chemical compound is most widely used in studies focused on the inhibition of liver and muscle glycogenolysis. However, there are also reports linking phosphorylase inhibitor action with cognitive function and glycogen metabolism in the brain. The aim of this study was to develop and validate the liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry method for quantitative analysis of present chemical compound in mouse tissues including different brain regions. Obtained linearity was in the range of 10–550 ng/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9996. In tissue matrix samples the limit of detection was 7.76 ng/mL, while the limit of quantification was 23.29 ng/mL. The coefficient of variation values did not exceed ±15% for either within a run or between run precision quality control samples. The extraction recovery was between 89.44% and 98.70% for various validation analyte concentrations. The present method was successful in the quantitative determination of the presented analyte in mouse tissues and provided evidence that the compound is not only present in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle but also in different regions of brain tissue such as the hippocampus, cerebellum, and cortex.
Prevalence of Castleman's disease in patients suffering from cervical lymphadenopathy
Authors: Krokenberger Michael , Schwamborn Kristina , Strassen Ulrich
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of Castleman's disease (unicentric/idiopathic multicentric CD) in a retrospective cohort according to the newly defined international diagnostic criteria in patients, who underwent a lymph node removal at a tertiary care university hospital over a period of 10 years.

Study design

Retrospective chart review.

Material and methods

All Patients with cervical lymphadenopathy coded by ICD‐10‐CM with “I88.9,” “R59.0,” or “D47.Z2” between January 2010 and December 2020 and who underwent a lymph node extirpation were identified. In cases who met the diagnostic criteria for a potential unicentric or idiopathic multicentric CD (iMCD) diagnosis, the lymph node tissue was re‐evaluated by a pathologist.

Results

A total of 714 patients with cervical lymphadenopathy were included into this single‐center retrospective study. After exclusion of patients with diseases that may mimic iMCD and cases for which material to perform histological re‐evaluation was lacking, a subset of 75 patients with “nonspecific lymphadenitis” or “reactive hyperplasia of lymph node” was identified, who underwent a renewed histopathological examination. One case fulfilled both the major and minor criteria of an iMCD diagnosis, and further 15 cases matched the histological criterion of an iMCD diagnosis (one of the two major diagnostic criteria), so that a UCD diagnosis according to the new criteria could be accepted.

Conclusion

In this cohort, the subsequent application of the new diagnostic criteria led to further cases of CD (1.9% compared to 0.1% before) being recognized. Although incidence and prevalence of UCD and iMCD are low, clinicians should keep in mind this differential diagnosis as effective therapies are available.

Level of Evidence

4.
TGFβ1 regulates HRas‐mediated activation of IRE1α through the PERK‐RPAP2 axis in keratinocytes
Authors: Mogre Saie , Blazanin Nicholas , Walsh Hailey , Ibinson Jack , Minnich Chase , Andrew Hu Chih‐Chi , Glick Adam B.
Published: August 2022

Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGFβ1) is a critical regulator of tumor progression in response to HRas. Recently, TGFβ1 has been shown to trigger ER stress in many disease models; however, its role in oncogene‐induced ER stress is unclear. Oncogenic HRas induces the unfolded protein response (UPR) predominantly via the Inositol‐requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α) pathway to initiate the adaptative responses to ER stress, with importance for both proliferation and senescence. Here, we show a role of the UPR sensor proteins IRE1α and (PKR)‐like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) to mediate the tumor‐suppressive roles of TGFβ1 in mouse keratinocytes expressing mutant forms of HRas. TGFβ1 suppressed IRE1α phosphorylation and activation by HRas both in in vitro and in vivo models while simultaneously activating the PERK pathway. However, the increase in ER stress indicated an uncoupling of ER stress and IRE1α activation by TGFβ1. Pharmacological and genetic approaches demonstrated that TGFβ1‐dependent dephosphorylation of IRE1α was mediated by PERK through RNA Polymerase II Associated Protein 2 (RPAP2), a PERK‐dependent IRE1α phosphatase. In addition, TGFβ1‐mediated growth arrest in oncogenic HRas keratinocytes was partially dependent on PERK‐induced IRE1α dephosphorylation and inactivation. Together, these results demonstrate a critical cross‐talk between UPR proteins that is important for TGFβ1‐mediated tumor suppressive responses.
A review of early severe weather applications of high‐resolution regional reanalysis in Australia
Authors: Fox‐Hughes Paul , Su Chun‐Hsu , Eizenberg Nathan , White Christopher , Steinle Peter , Jakob Doerte , Black Mitchell , Dowdy Andrew , Brown Andrew , Nathan Rory , Acharya Suwash Chandra
Published: August 2022

High‐resolution regional reanalysis datasets have the potential to provide valuable guidance to emergency management agencies, highlighting areas at risk of severe weather, including estimates of return periods of various hazardous weather phenomena. The BARRA regional reanalysis for Australia comprises a reanalysis for a broad region around Australia at moderately high spatial and temporal resolution (12 km/hourly), together with four subdomains at high resolution (1.5 km/1 h). Here, we document four applications of BARRA developed for emergency management: optimal placement of portable automatic weather stations for fire weather monitoring; climatology of low‐level wind shear conducive to cool‐season tornadogenesis; development of rainfall intensity–frequency–duration curves based on the gridded reanalysis data; and development of a climatology across Australia of parameters associated with severe thunderstorm occurrence.
MHA: COVID has adverse impact on health care workers' MH
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2022

The pandemic has had a profound negative impact on all health care workers, regardless of their job title and direct level of involvement with COVID‐19 patients, according to a new survey released by Mental Health America (MHA), in partnership with the Mental Health Strategic Impact Initiative (S2i).
Electromagnetic fields simulating a rotating sphere and its exterior with implications to the modeling of the heliosphere
Authors: Fatone Lorella , Funaro Daniele
Published: August 2022

Vector displacements expressed in spherical coordinates are proposed. They correspond to electromagnetic fields in vacuum that globally rotate about an axis and display many circular patterns on the surface of a ball. The fields satisfy the set of Maxwell's equations, and some connections with magnetohydrodynamics can also be established. The solutions are extended with continuity outside the ball. In order to avoid peripheral velocities of arbitrary magnitude, as it may happen for a rigid rotating body, they are organized to form successive encapsulated shells, with substructures recalling ball‐bearing assemblies. A recipe for the construction of these solutions is provided by playing with the eigenfunctions of the vector Laplace operator. Some applications relative to astronomy are finally discussed.
Technical note: Absolute dose measurements of a vault‐free radiosurgery system
Authors: Sorensen Stephen P. , Jani Shyam S. , Pinnaduwage Dilini S. , Yan Xiangsheng , Srivastava Shiv P.
Published: August 2022

Background

Methods for accurate absolute dose (AD) calibration are essential for the proper functioning of radiotherapy treatment machines. Many systems do not conform to TG‐51 calibration standards, and modifications are required. TG‐21 calibration is also a viable methodology for these situations with the appropriate setup, equipment, and factors. It has been shown that both these methods result in minimal errors. A similar approach has been taken in calibrating the dose for a recent vault‐free radiosurgery system.

Purpose

To evaluate modified TG‐21 and TG‐51 protocols for AD calibrations of the ZAP‐X radiosurgery system using ion chambers, film, and thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs).

Methods

The current treatment planning system for ZAP‐X requires AD calibration at dmax (7 mm) and 450 mm source‐to‐axis distance. Both and Nx [R/C] calibration coefficients were provided by an accredited dosimetry calibration laboratory for a physikalisch technische werkstatten (PTW) 31010 chamber (0.125 cc). The vendor provides an f‐bracket that can be mounted on the collimator. Various phantoms can then be attached to the f‐bracket. A custom acrylic phantom was designed based on recommendations from TG‐21 and technical report series‐398 that places the chamber at 500 mm from the source with a depth of 44‐mm acrylic and 456‐mm SSD. Nx along with other TG‐21 parameters was used to calculate the AD. Measurements using a PTW MP3‐XS water tank and the same chamber were used to calculate AD using and TG‐51 factors. Dose verification was performed using Gafchromic film and 3rd party TLDs.

Results

Measurements from TG‐51, TG‐21 (utilizing the custom acrylic phantom), film, and TLDs agreed to within ± 2%.

Conclusions

A modified TG‐51 AD calculation in water is preferred but may not be practical due to the difficulty in tank setup. The TG‐21 modified protocol using a custom acrylic phantom is an accurate alternative option for dose calibration. Both of these methods are within acceptable agreement and provide confidence in the system's AD calibration.
Improving multiparametric MR‐transrectal ultrasound guided fusion prostate biopsies with hyperpolarized 13C pyruvate metabolic imaging: A technical development study
Authors: Chen Hsin‐Yu , Bok Robert A. , Cooperberg Matthew R. , Nguyen Hao G. , Shinohara Katsuto , Westphalen Antonio C. , Wang Zhen J. , Ohliger Michael A. , Gebrezgiabhier Daniel , Carvajal Lucas , Gordon Jeremy W. , Larson Peder E. Z. , Aggarwal Rahul , Kurhanewicz John , Vigneron Daniel B.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To develop techniques and establish a workflow using hyperpolarized carbon‐13 (13C) MRI and the pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion rate (kPL) biomarker to guide MR‐transrectal ultrasound fusion prostate biopsies.

Methods

The integrated multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) exam consisted of a 1‐min hyperpolarized 13C‐pyruvate EPI acquisition added to a conventional prostate mpMRI exam. Maps of kPL values were calculated, uploaded to a picture archiving and communication system and targeting platform, and displayed as color overlays on T2‐weighted anatomic images. Abdominal radiologists identified 13C research biopsy targets based on the general recommendation of focal lesions with kPL >0.02(s−1), and created a targeting report for each study. Urologists conducted transrectal ultrasound‐guided MR fusion biopsies, including the standard 1H–mpMRI targets as well as 12–14 core systematic biopsies informed by the research 13C‐kPL targets. All biopsy results were included in the final pathology report and calculated toward clinical risk.

Results

This study demonstrated the safety and technical feasibility of integrating hyperpolarized 13C metabolic targeting into routine 1H–mpMRI and transrectal ultrasound fusion biopsy workflows, evaluated via 5 men (median age 71 years, prostate‐specific antigen 8.4 ng/mL, Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment score 2) on active surveillance undergoing integrated scan and subsequent biopsies. No adverse event was reported. Median turnaround time was less than 3 days from scan to 13C‐kPL targeting, and scan‐to‐biopsy time was 2 weeks. Median number of 13C targets was 1 (range: 1–2) per patient, measuring 1.0 cm (range: 0.6–1.9) in diameter, with a median kPL of 0.0319 s−1 (range: 0.0198–0.0410).

Conclusions

This proof‐of‐concept work demonstrated the safety and feasibility of integrating hyperpolarized 13C MR biomarkers to the standard mpMRI workflow to guide MR‐transrectal ultrasound fusion biopsies.
Total free energy analysis of fully hydrated proteins
Authors: Kalayan Jas , Chakravorty Arghya , Warwicker Jim , Henchman Richard H.
Published: August 2022

The total free energy of a hydrated biomolecule and its corresponding decomposition of energy and entropy provides detailed information about regions of thermodynamic stability or instability. The free energies of four hydrated globular proteins with different net charges are calculated from a molecular dynamics simulation, with the energy coming from the system Hamiltonian and entropy using multiscale cell correlation. Water is found to be most stable around anionic residues, intermediate around cationic and polar residues, and least stable near hydrophobic residues, especially when more buried, with stability displaying moderate entropy‐enthalpy compensation. Conversely, anionic residues in the proteins are energetically destabilized relative to singly solvated amino acids, while trends for other residues are less clear‐cut. Almost all residues lose intraresidue entropy when in the protein, enthalpy changes are negative on average but may be positive or negative, and the resulting overall stability is moderate for some proteins and negligible for others. The free energy of water around single amino acids is found to closely match existing hydrophobicity scales. Regarding the effect of secondary structure, water is slightly more stable around loops, of intermediate stability around strands and turns, and least stable around helices. An interesting asymmetry observed is that cationic residues stabilize a residue when bonded to its N‐terminal side but destabilize it when on the C‐terminal side, with a weaker reversed trend for anionic residues.
Varroa destructor resistance to tau‐fluvalinate: relationship between in vitro phenotypic test and VGSC L925V mutation
Authors: Almecija Gabrielle , Schimmerling Marion , Del Cont Aurélie , Poirot Benjamin , Duquesne Véronique
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Varroa destructor is a parasitic mite of the honey bee, Apis mellifera. Its presence in colonies can lead to a collapse within a few years. The use of acaricides has become essential to manage the hive infestation. However, the repeated and possibly incorrect use of acaricide treatments, as tau‐fluvalinate, has led to the development of resistance. The in vitro phenotypic test allows the proportion of susceptible or resistant individuals to be known following an exposure to an active substance. In Varroa mites, resistance to tau‐fluvalinate is associated with the presence of mutations at the position 925 of the voltage‐gated sodium channel (VGSC).

RESULTS

Here, we compared the results obtained with an in vitro phenotypic test against tau‐fluvalinate and those obtained with an allelic discrimination assay on 13 treated and untreated Varroa populations in France. The correlation between the phenotype and the genetic profile rate is found to be 0.89 Varroa mites having resistant phenotypic profile have a probability of 63% to present the L925V mutation (resistance detection reliability). However, 97% of the Varroa mites having the susceptible phenotype do not present the L925V mutation (susceptible detection reliability).

CONCLUSION

The L925V mutation explains most of the resistance to tau‐fluvalinate in V. destructor in the populations tested. However, other mutations or types of resistance may also be involved to explain the survival of Varroa mites in the phenotypic test. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Set for Variability as a Critical Predictor of Word Reading: Potential Implications for Early Identification and Treatment of Dyslexia
Authors: Steacy Laura M. , Edwards Ashley A. , Rigobon Valeria M. , Gutiérrez Nuria , Marencin Nancy C. , Siegelman Noam , Himelhoch Alexandra C. , Himelhoch Cristina , Rueckl Jay , Compton Donald L.
Published: August 2022

Quasiregular orthographies such as English contain substantial ambiguities between orthography and phonology that force developing readers to acquire flexibility during decoding of unfamiliar words, a skill referred to as a “set for variability” (SfV). The ease with which a child can disambiguate the mismatch between the decoded form of a word and its actual lexical phonological form has been operationalized using the SfV mispronunciation task (e.g., the word wasp is pronounced to rhyme with clasp [i.e., /wæsp/] and the child must recognize the actual pronunciation of the word to be /wɒsp/). SfV has been shown to be a significant predictor of word reading variance. However, little is known about the relative strength of SfV as a predictor of word reading compared to other well‐established predictors or the strength of this relationship in children with dyslexia. To address these questions, we administered the SfV task to a sample of grade 2–5 children (N = 489) along with other reading related measures. SfV accounted for 15% unique variance in word reading above and beyond other predictors, whereas phonological awareness (PA) accounted for only 1%. Dominance analysis indicated SfV is the most powerful predictor, demonstrating complete statistical dominance over other variables including PA. Quantile regression revealed SfV is a stronger predictor at lower levels of reading skill, indicating it may be an important predictor in students with dyslexia. Results suggest that SfV is a powerful and potentially highly sensitive predictor of early reading difficulties and, therefore, may be important for early identification and treatment of dyslexia.
Reconciling culture and conservation of wildlife: Field insights regarding sustainable community development projects and stakeholder well‐being
Authors: Weizman Rotem , Talmage Craig A. , Allgood Beth , Barylak Carson
Published: August 2022

This article showcases tensions between local culture and wildlife conservation work. The community capitals framework is applied drawing specifically on cultural capital, natural capital, and economic capital for elucidation of notable insights. Five cases from across the world are leveraged to identify where and how culture and conservation can be reconciled to enhance the well‐being for humans and wildlife. The five cases include: Whaling in Iceland; elephants in Thailand; monk seals in Hawaii; koalas in Australia; and, wildlife in Alaska. The article demonstrates how different communities have and can shift values to view animals as co‐producers of well‐being rather than commodities. These communities can find ways to examine and take advantage of the intersections of economic, cultural, and natural capital. Moreover, the nature of how species are culturally defined as important is examined leaving many questions regarding power, ownership, and leadership in future sustainable development efforts including wildlife conservation.
Paired serial limiting dilution assays
Authors: Li Xiudi , May Susanne , Trumble Ilana M. , Archin Nancie M. , Hudgens Michael G.
Published: August 2022

Serial limiting dilution (SLD) assays are a widely used tool in many areas of public health research to measure the concentration of target entities. This concentration can be estimated via maximum likelihood. Asymptotic as well as exact inference methods have been proposed for hypothesis testing and confidence interval construction in this one‐sample problem. However, in many scientific applications, it may be of interest to compare the concentration of target entities between a pair of samples and construct valid confidence intervals for the difference in concentrations. In this paper, an exact, computationally efficient inferential procedure is proposed for hypothesis testing and confidence interval construction in the two‐sample SLD assay problem. The proposed exact method is compared to an approach based on asymptotic approximations in simulation studies. The methods are illustrated using data from the University of North Carolina HIV Cure Center.