bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological and morphometric study of the superior vestibular nerve trunk in guinea pigs
Authors: de Vasconcelos Carlos Augusto Carvalho , Schiavoni Maria Cristina Lopes , Hyppolito Miguel Angelo , Marques Wilson
Published: August 2022

The guinea pig has been chosen as a research model for otologic or neuropathic studies due to the relative ease of the cochlea, cochlear nerve, and vestibular nerve dissection. Little data have been reported on the normality of these nerves. The vestibular nerve is composed of the superior vestibular, inferior vestibular, and branch nerves. This study aimed to study the microscopic anatomy of the superior vestibular nerve (SVN) of guinea pigs using light microscopy and to search for normality patterns for use in experimental models in basic otologic research. We used eight male albino guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus, English strain), weighing between 400 and 500 g. After anesthetizing, the animals were perfused with a fixative solution of 2.5% glutaraldehyde. Dissection was performed by the access method to the temporal bone, coming to the rock and exposing the cochlea and vestibular nerve. The NVS fragments were removed, postfixed in osmium tetroxide, and embedded in the epoxy plastic resin Poly/Bed 812® (Polysciences Inc., Warrington, PA). Semi‐thin transverse serial sections (0.5 μm) were made using a microtome MT6000‐XL, RMC, Inc. and stained with toluidine blue. Morphology and morphometry were described and evaluated using the KS 400 application (Kontron 2.0, EchingBei, Munich, Germany) by macro, a computer program specially designed and developed for the study of the VIII nerve. The SVN was found to be devoid of epineurium, with only a thin conjunctive tissue layer. The myelin sheath of guinea pigs is relatively thin compared to the sensory and motor nerves found in mammals. The average fascicular area SVN was 0.19 ± 0.05 mm2, with the largest area found to be 0.24 mm2 and the lowest was 0.12 mm2. The average number of fibers was 5,753.00 ± 538 fibers. The density of myelinated fibers reached 32,316.08 ± 11,375.29 fibers/mm2. Its diameter ranged from 1.0 to 9 μm and its peak was 3 μm. The measured results confirm the results of another study, indicating that the methodology is appropriate and reproducible. These findings are important for the evaluation of injured nerves in experimental models of peripheral neuropathy and basic ear disease.
Is traditional back translation enough? Comparison of translation methodology for an ASD screening tool
Authors: DuBay Michaela , Sideris John , Rouch Erica
Published: August 2022

Early identification of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in non‐English speaking children often relies on translation of English ASD screening measures. Most measures employ a forward‐back translation approach, despite data suggesting that this method may result in poor psychometric properties. Some studies in non‐ASD fields have suggested that a rigorous method of translation with cultural adaptation may yield better psychometric properties, but no studies in the ASD field have compared the two approaches directly. This investigation compares these two translation methodologies to determine if they produce psychometrically similar or dissimilar measures. Three hundred and eighty US‐based Spanish‐speaking caregivers of children 8–16 months old were randomly assigned to complete either a forward‐back Spanish translation or a rigorous translation with cultural adaptation of a parent‐report ASD screening tool. Measurement invariance analyses determined that the two translations were psychometrically dissimilar. Additional qualitative explanatory methods using cognitive interviews examined textual differences and participant preferences between non‐invariant items.

Lay Summary

Autism screening questionnaires created in English need to be translated into other languages so non‐English speaking parents can fill them out accurately. Traditionally, researchers have not considered cultural differences when they translate these questionnaires. When we compared a direct translation to a translation with cultural adaptations, the two questionnaires were statistically different. Parents interpreted and responded to the same questions differently, depending on which version they filled out.
Valorizing prickly pear cladodes via methane‐arrested anaerobic digestion for carboxylic acid production
Authors: Olokede Opeyemi , Wu Haoran , Holtzapple Mark
Published: August 2022

To address climate change, liquid biofuels are an essential alternative to fossil fuels, especially for transportation. The carboxylate platform uses methane‐arrested anaerobic digestion (MAAD) to ferment biomass to carboxylic acids, which can be chemically converted to liquid fuels via the carboxylate platform. Most biomass sources require expensive pretreatments to remove lignin; however, prickly pear (Opuntia ficus‐indica) cladodes have low lignin content and therefore do not require pretreatment. Furthermore, this sugar‐rich feedstock is readily digested to high concentrations of carboxylic acids. At various substrate concentrations, batch MAAD of prickly pear cladodes yielded primarily acetic, butyric, and caproic acids. From these batch data, continuum particle distribution modeling (CPDM) simulated four‐stage countercurrent digestion. At a non‐acid volatile solid (NAVS) concentration of 100 g/Lliq, CPDM predicts a high total acid concentration of 93 g/L and conversion of 0.93 g NAVSdigested/NAVSfed at a volatile solid loading rate of 6 g/(Lliq·d) and liquid retention time of 35 days. Without chemical pretreatment, co‐digestion, or in situ product removal, prickly pear produced high yields, biomass conversion, product concentration, and selectivity compared to previously studied lignocellulosic feedstocks.
Novel Ethylene Glycol Substituted Benzoxadiazole and Benzothiadiazole as Anolytes for Nonaqueous Organic Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Makarova Maria V. , Akkuratov Alexander V. , Sideltsev Maxim E. , Stevenson Keith J. , Romadina Elena I.
Published: August 2022

The design of new organic materials for redox‐flow batteries is an actively developing topic in the field of energy storage. Herein, two novel redox‐active organic molecules were presented, based on benzoxadiazole and benzothiadiazole cores bearing ethylene glycol substituents, which were first synthesized and evaluated as anolytes in nonaqueous all organic redox flow batteries. These two molecules were compared with their unsubstituted analogs in terms of electrochemistry, solubility and RFB cycling behavior. Substituted benzoxadiazole and benzothiadiazole possess low redox potentials near −2.1 V vs. Fc/Fc+, increased solubility in organic solvents, reduced permeability through the membrane and higher stability under charge‐discharge cycling in laboratory RFB cells than unsubstituted counterparts.
Adsorption thermodynamics of CO2 on nitrogen‐doped biochar synthesized with moderate temperature ionic liquid
Authors: Du Yarong , Guo Tianxiang , Geng Yuhan , Zhang Runan , Kong Lingfeng , Fan Zeng , Xiao Huining
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this work was to investigate the thermodynamic characteristics of carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorption on a promising nitrogen‐doped biochar at constant temperature and isopiestic pressure. The biochar was prepared as a CO2 adsorbent based on catalytic pyrolysis of pristine coconut shells using urea as the nitrogen source and moderate temperature ionic liquid as a catalyst. The results showed that CO2 adsorption on the biochar was a spontaneous, dominantly physical, exothermic, and entropy decrement process that could be well described by the slip model and the dual‐site Langmuir model. Those thermodynamic parameters, including interface potential, exhibited a series of interesting tendencies with the changes in adsorption temperature and pressure. Under the conditions of 273 K and 100 kPa, the adsorption capacity and the interface potential were 4.6 mmol/g and −16.7 J/g, respectively. And the site energy ranged from 2.57 to 5.13 kJ/mol in the test conditions, which became narrow with increasing temperature. The temperature exhibited positive effects on interface potential, enthalpy change, entropy change, enthalpy change, internal energy change but negative effects on adsorption capacity, Gibbs free energy change, and Helmholtz free energy change. Interestingly, the pressure exhibited the opposite effect trends. The peak pressure with maximum temperature effect at a given temperature and the peak temperature with maximum pressure effect at a given pressure were found to exist for some thermodynamic parameters. These exhibited a different but significantly beneficial perspective to understand the mass and energy transfer during CO2 adsorption on the biochar at constant temperature and isopiestic pressure, which have rarely been reported before.
Mechanochemical Metal‐Free Synthesis of 3‐Arylindenones via Unprecedented Aryl Swapping
Authors: Li Liang , Niu Chuang , Wang Guan‐Wu
Published: August 2022

Comprehensive Summary

A triflic anhydride‐induced annulation of benzoic acids bearing electron‐withdrawing groups with arylalkynes leading to diverse 3‐arylindenones via an unprecedented aryl swapping pathway under an air atmosphere and ball‐milling conditions has been disclosed. Most of the obtained 3‐arylindenones are fluorine‐containing compounds. The present mechanochemical protocol employs easily available and inexpensive benzoic acids, which unexpectedly undergo aryl swapping with arylalkynes and serve as the source of the 3‐aryl group. The current mechanochemical methodology shows advantages including no requirement of transition‐metal catalysts, ambient conditions and excellent regioselectivity for the rearrangement products, providing expedient access to 3‐arylindenones containing functional groups such as F, Cl, Br, CF3, OCF3, SCF3, OAc, Ac, CO2Et or NO2. Moreover, the applications of this method to construct analogues of PPARγ agonist and antiosteoporotic agent have been demonstrated. A plausible reaction mechanism involving aryl swapping through vinyl cation formation from arylalkyne and in situ generated benzoyl triflate, intramolecular 4‐endo‐dig cyclization, subsequent ring opening and final annulation is proposed to explain the formation of 3‐arylindenones.
A systematic review and meta‐ethnographic synthesis of Mindfulness‐based Cognitive Therapy for people with major depression
Authors: Williams Kate , Hartley Samantha , Langer Susanne , Manandhar‐Richardson Mizla , Sinha Melissa , Taylor Peter
Published: August 2022

Background

Mindfulness‐based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a relapse‐prevention intervention for people experiencing major depression. Three qualitative meta‐syntheses investigating experiences of taking part in MBCT and/or Mindfulness‐based Stress Reduction (MBSR) across different diagnostic populations reported themes including control, choice, group processes, relationships and struggles. As multiple studies have been published since, we aimed to update, systematically review and synthesize the experiences of participants with depression taking part in MBCT.

Methods

Four databases were searched systematically (PsycInfo, Web of Science, Medline and CINAHL) up to and including 12 November 2021. Twenty‐one qualitative studies met the review criteria. All papers were rated as fair using a quality appraisal tool. Meta‐ethnography was applied.

Results

Across 21 studies of participants with current or previous depression who had participated in MBCT, three overarching themes were developed: ‘Becoming skilled and taking action’, ‘Acceptance’ and ‘Ambivalence and Variability’. Participants became skilled through engagement in mindfulness practices, reporting increased awareness, perspective and agency over their experiences. Participants developed acceptance towards their experiences, self and others. There was variability and ambivalence regarding participants' expectations and difficulties within mindfulness practices.

Limitations

Many studies were conducted in MBCT‐research centres that may hold conflicts of interest. Many studies did not address the impact of the participant–researcher relationship thus potentially affecting their interpretations. Studies were skewed towards the experiences of female participants.

Conclusions

Our findings help to enhance participant confidence in MBCT, alongside understanding the processes of change and the potential for difficulties. MBCT is beneficial and provides meaningful change for many but remains challenging for some.
Compartmentalization Accelerates Photosensitized NADH to NAD+ Conversion
Authors: Nau Roland E. P. , Bösking Julian , Pannwitz Andrea
Published: August 2022

Confinement of reaction spaces was achieved in a biomimetic manner by using liposome vesicles that are based on phospholipid bilayer membranes, similar to cellular compartments. Encapsulation of photosensitizer (PS) and substrate within the inner aqueous compartment of liposomes accelerated the photosensitized model reaction of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) conversion to its oxidized form (NAD+) by one order of magnitude compared to classical homogeneous reaction conditions. Furthermore, it was found that the reaction proceeds around 40 % faster when the photosensitizer is dissolved in the inner aqueous compartment instead of being embedded within the phospholipid bilayer which is attributed to the diffusion behavior of singlet oxygen which acts as oxidant in this reaction. These experimental findings will allow for reaction and molecular systems design for photochemical and catalytic conversions and will be relevant in the context of creating artificial cellular compartments such as fully artificial chloroplasts.
The changes in levels of blood cortisol, glucose, and oxygen saturation in type 2 diabetic patients during tooth extraction
Authors: Agani Zana , Ahmedi Jehona , Ademi Abdyli Resmije , Prekazi Loxha Mergime , Hamiti‐Krasniqi Vjosa , Rexhepi Aida , Stubljar David
Published: August 2022

Objectives

The extraction of a tooth exacerbates the stress in diabetic patients leading to diabetic complications so the aim was to evaluate the changes in blood cortisol, glucose, and oxygen saturation in type 2 diabetic patients during tooth extraction to pay special attention during a routine surgical procedure.

Materials and Methods

The research included 40 patients with type 2 diabetes with indications of tooth extraction. They were divided into two subgroups by 20 participants and split according to local anesthesia (lidocaine with additional adrenaline or lidocaine only). Cortisol, blood sugar, blood pressure, arterial pulse, and blood oxygen saturation were measured. Patients were also evaluated for their sensitivity to pain through the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Results

Cortisol and glucose levels scientifically increased throughout the procedure. Meanwhile, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure and saturation showed no difference between the measurements during and after tooth extraction (p = .280; p = .090; p = .590, respectively). Most patients (60.0%) felt no pain during/after the procedure. None of the subjects was feeling more pain than 30 points by VAS. The comparison between groups receiving lidocaine showed no statistical differences when adding adrenaline to lidocaine. Evaluation of pain by VAS showed that more patients felt pain when they were receiving lidocaine without adrenaline.

Conclusions

Diabetic patients require a more cautious approach when undergoing teeth extractions despite it being a routine procedure.
High counting of circulating tumor cells in blood is not directly related to metastasis
Authors: Zhao Xiaohui , Qi Ziang , Gao Ziao , He Hao
Published: August 2022

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in blood flow have been believed as an essential biomarker of cancer. The technologies of in vitro and in vivo CTC enrichment and detection suggest although CTCs might play a role of “seed” in metastasis, only the minority of CTCs, probably in the form of CTC clusters, hold the potential to develop a tumor in organs. The detected amount of CTCs might be solely an indicator of tumor burden. To provide new insights into this argument, we take advantage of a safe drug to tune the pacemaker activity of a mouse tumor model to increase the heart rate for a period of time every day during the tumor development. We detect the CTCs in vivo by fast line scanning of a confocal microscope when the heart rate returns to the baseline and find the average CTC amount is significantly elevated in the drug‐treated group but the metastases are even less than that of control. Our results imply the detected CTC counts in blood might not be directly related to metastasis.
Documenting the short‐tailed albatross (Phoebastria albatrus) clades historically present in British Columbia, Canada, through ancient DNA analysis of archaeological specimens
Authors: Royle Thomas C. A. , Guiry Eric. J. , Zhang Hua , Clark Lauren T. , Missal Shalegh M. , Rabinow Sophie A. , James Margaretta , Yang Dongya Y.
Published: August 2022

The short‐tailed albatross (Phoebastria albatrus) is a threatened seabird whose present‐day range encompasses much of the North Pacific. Within this species, there are two genetic clades (Clades 1 and 2) that have distinctive morphologies and foraging ecologies. Due to a global population collapse in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the frequency of these clades among the short‐tailed albatross population that historically foraged off British Columbia, Canada, is unclear. To document the species' historical genetic structure in British Columbia, we applied ancient DNA (aDNA) analysis to 51 archaeological short‐tailed albatross specimens from the Yuquot site (Borden site number: DjSp‐1) that span the past four millennia. We obtained a 141 bp cytochrome b sequence from 43 of the 51 (84.3%) analyzed specimens. Analyses of these sequences indicate 40 of the specimens belong to Clade 1, while 2 belong to Clade 2. We also identified a single specimen with a novel cytochrome b haplotype. Our results indicate that during the past four millennia most of the short‐tailed albatrosses foraging near Yuquot belonged to Clade 1, while individuals from other lineages made more limited use of the area. Comparisons with the results of previous aDNA analyses of archaeological albatrosses from Japanese sites suggest the distribution of Clades 1 and 2 differed. While both albatross clades foraged extensively in the Northwest Pacific, Clade 1 albatrosses appear to have foraged along the west coast of Vancouver Island to a greater extent. Due to their differing distributions, these clades may be exposed to different threats.
Multiscale nest‐site selection of ducks in the western boreal forest of Alberta
Authors: Dyson Matthew E. , Slattery Stuart M. , Fedy Bradley C.
Published: August 2022

There is limited data regarding the nesting ecology of boreal ducks and their response to industrial development, despite this region being an important North American breeding area. We investigated how landcover and oil and gas development affect third‐order nest‐site selection of boreal ducks. We located duck nests in Alberta's western boreal forest between 2016 and 2018. We used multiscale analysis to identify how scale affects the selection of a resource using generalized linear mixed‐effects models and determined what scale‐optimized combination of landscape features were most important in describing where ducks nest. We located 136 nests of six species of upland nesting ducks between 2016 and 2018. The magnitude, direction, and best spatial scale varied by resource. For landcover, ducks selected nest‐sites associated with mineral wetlands (300 m) and open water (300 m). Ducks avoided greater densities of seismic lines (300 m) and pipelines (2500 m) but selected nest‐sites associated with borrow pits (300 m) and roads (1000 m). We used our models to predict important duck nesting habitat in the boreal forest, which can support conservation and management decisions. We recommend conservation actions target the conservation of mineral wetlands and associated habitats within this working landscape. Further research is necessary to understand the adaptive consequences of nest‐site selection and how industrial development influences important nest predators.
Assessing diversity of King Crab Lithodes spp. in the south‐eastern pacific using phylogeny and molecular species delimitation methods
Authors: Pinochet Ramona , Pardo Luis Miguel , Cárdenas Leyla
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that the genetic diversity of commercially significant species of King Crabs (Lithodes spp.) along the south‐eastern Pacific (SEP) comprises different independent evolutionary units (IEUs) with spatially isolated distribution. Nine localities from inner and open waters along the SEP Chilean coast (39°S‐55°S) were sampled. We analyzed sequences from 173 individuals for the mitochondrial gene Cytochrome oxidase I (COX‐I), 151 individuals for the Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 (ITS) and 135 for the structural ribosomal RNA (28S). Genetic delimitation was performed through three analytical methods: ABGD, GMYC, and its Bayesian implementation, bGMYC. Bayesian phylogenetic analyses and haplotype networks were also performed. Divergence time between clades was assessed for the COX‐I marker and estimated from known evolutionary rates for this marker in other crustacean species and fossil calibration from other Anomuran species. Delimitation analyses, phylogenetic analyses, and mitochondrial haplotype networks suggested the presence of two deeply divergent mitochondrial lineages of Lithodes in the SEP, referred to as Clade1 and Clade 2. Nuclear markers showed low phylogenetic resolution and therefore were unsuitable for molecular species delimitation. Divergence time analysis of the mitochondrial lineages suggests a separation between Clades of approximately 2.3 Mya. The divergence time obtained suggested that Pliocene glaciations and deglaciations cycles could be involved in hybridization events between Lithodes IEUs at southern tip of South American coasts. The different frequencies of Lithodes haplotypes in inner and open water environments along SEP coasts could be explained by events such as the last glacial maximum or by differences in the adaptation of each clade to different environments. These findings support the necessity of evaluating the taxonomic status of Lithodes individuals found along SEP coasts under an integrative taxonomy approach or through markers with other evolution rates than those already used.
High platelet reactivity is a predictor of left ventricular remodelling in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Tsuji Masahiro , Kawai Yusuke , Miyoshi Toru , Saito Eisuke , Kawamura Kohei , Ono Tamaki , Tokioka Koji , Ohe Tohru , Nakamura Kazufumi , Ito Hiroshi
Published: August 2022

Aims

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is associated with left ventricular remodelling (LVR), which leads to progressive heart failure. Platelets play a pivotal role in promoting systemic and cardiac inflammatory responses during the complex process of myocardial wound healing or repair following AMI. This study aimed to investigate the impact of platelet reactivity immediately after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on LVR in AMI patients with ST‐segment (STEMI) and non‐ST‐segment elevation (NSTEMI).

Methods and results

This prospective, single‐centre, observational study included 182 patients with AMI who underwent primary PCI (107 patient with STEMI and 75 patients with NSTEMI). Patients were administered a loading dose of aspirin plus prasugrel before the procedure, and platelet reactivity was assessed using the VerifyNow P2Y12 assay immediately after PCI. Echocardiography was performed before discharge and during the chronic phase (8 ± 3 months after discharge). LVR was defined as a relative ≥20% increase in left ventricular end‐diastolic volume index (LVEDVI). LVR in chronic phase was found in 34 patients (18.7%) whose platelet reactivity was significantly higher than those without LVR (259.6 ± 61.5 and 213.1 ± 74.8 P2Y12 reaction units [PRU]; P = 0.001). The occurrence of LVR did not differ between patients with STEMI and patients with NSTEMI (21.5% and 14.7%; P = 0.33). The optimal cut‐off value of platelet reactivity for discriminating LVR was ≥245 PRU. LVEDVI significantly decreased at chronic phase in patients without high platelet reactivity (<245 PRU) (from 49.2 ± 13.5 to 45.4 ± 15.8 mL/m2; P = 0.02), but not in patients with high platelet reactivity (≥d245 PRU) (P = 0.06). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that high platelet reactivity was an independent predictor of LVR after adjusting for LVEDVI before discharge (odds ratio, 4.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.85–9.79).

Conclusions

High platelet reactivity measured immediately after PCI was a predictor of LVR in patients with AMI during the chronic phase. The role of antiplatelet therapy on inflammation in the myocardium is a promising area for further research.
Tailored Digitalization in Electrode Manufacturing: The Backbone of Smart Lithium‐Ion Battery Cell Production
Authors: Haghi Sajedeh , Summer Armin , Bauerschmidt Philipp , Daub Rüdiger
Published: August 2022

Following the introduction of Industry 4.0 and the development of information technologies, manufacturing companies have been undergoing a profound transformation. This transformation envisions the realization of the smart factory as a fully connected, flexible production system regulated by data. Digitalization and collection of the critical parameters are the vital prerequisites for this vision. Electrode manufacturing is regarded as the core phase in the battery cell production, having most of the properties determining the electrochemical performance of the battery cell established in this phase. There are a high number of parameters involved in electrode manufacturing. The digitalization of these parameters is associated with a considerable amount of effort and costs. Introducing a tailored digitalization concept provides the first step toward smart battery cell production. The tailored digitalization concept is based on the importance of the parameters from the quality management perspective and their complexity with regard to digitalization. The prioritization of parameters enables a successive quality‐oriented digitalization strategy. The concept is built on a two‐step literature‐based and expert‐based approach. The results include a comprehensive list of parameters and their prioritization for digitalization and integration in a tracking and tracing concept.
Association between air pollution and COVID‐19 disease severity via Bayesian multinomial logistic regression with partially missing outcomes
Authors: Hoskovec Lauren , Martenies Sheena , Burket Tori L. , Magzamen Sheryl , Wilson Ander
Published: August 2022

Recent ecological analyses suggest air pollution exposure may increase susceptibility to and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Individual‐level studies are needed to clarify the relationship between air pollution exposure and COVID‐19 outcomes. We conduct an individual‐level analysis of long‐term exposure to air pollution and weather on peak COVID‐19 severity. We develop a Bayesian multinomial logistic regression model with a multiple imputation approach to impute partially missing health outcomes. Our approach is based on the stick‐breaking representation of the multinomial distribution, which offers computational advantages, but presents challenges in interpreting regression coefficients. We propose a novel inferential approach to address these challenges. In a simulation study, we demonstrate our method's ability to impute missing outcome data and improve estimation of regression coefficients compared to a complete case analysis. In our analysis of 55,273 COVID‐19 cases in Denver, Colorado, increased annual exposure to fine particulate matter in the year prior to the pandemic was associated with increased risk of severe COVID‐19 outcomes. We also found COVID‐19 disease severity to be associated with interactions between exposures. Our individual‐level analysis fills a gap in the literature and helps to elucidate the association between long‐term exposure to air pollution and COVID‐19 outcomes.
Novel potent liposome agonists of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 phenocopy antibody treatment in cells
Authors: Boudesco Christophe , Nonneman Annelies , Cinti Alessandro , Picardi Paola , Redaelli Loredana , Swijsen Sofie , Roewe Julian , Reinhardt Peter , Ibach Melanie , Walter Jochen , Pocock Jennifer M. , Ren Yi , Driguez Pierre‐Alexandre , Dargazanli Gihad , Eyquem Stephanie , Proto Jonathan , Flores‐Morales Amilcar , Pradier Laurent
Published: August 2022

The receptor Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is associated with several neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's Disease and TREM2 stimulation represents a novel therapeutic opportunity. TREM2 can be activated by antibodies targeting the stalk region, most likely through receptor dimerization. Endogenous ligands of TREM2 are suggested to be negatively charged apoptotic bodies, mimicked by phosphatidylserine incorporated in liposomes and other polyanionic molecules likely binding to TREM2 IgV fold. However, there has been much discrepancy in the literature on the nature of phospholipids (PLs) that can activate TREM2 and on the stability of the corresponding liposomes over time. We describe optimized liposomes as robust agonists selective for TREM2 over TREM1 in cellular system. The detailed structure/activity relationship studies of lipid polar heads indicate that negatively charged lipid heads are required for activity and we identified the shortest maximally active PL sidechain. Optimized liposomes are active on both TREM2 common variant and TREM2 R47H mutant. Activity and selectivity were further confirmed in different native TREM2 expressing cell types including on integrated cellular responses such as stimulation of phagocytic activity. Such tool agonists will be useful in further studies of TREM2 biology in cellular systems alongside antibodies, and in the design of small molecule synthetic TREM2 agonists.
Prevalence and prognostic impact of retropharyngeal lymph nodes metastases in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: Meta‐analysis of published literature
Authors: Tirelli Giancarlo , Gardenal Nicoletta , Zanelli Enrico , Borsetto Daniele , Phillips Veronica , Marcuzzo Alberto Vito , Fussey Jonathan , Polesel Jerry , Boscolo‐Rizzo Paolo
Published: August 2022

Background

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to estimate the prevalence and prognostic impact of retropharyngeal lymph node metastases (RLNMs) in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Methods

This meta‐analysis was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria: studies with more than 20 patients reporting the prevalence or prognostic impact of RLNMs in OPSCC. Whenever available, data on HPV status and subsites were extracted.

Results

Twenty‐two articles were included. The overall prevalence of RLNMs in OPSCC was 13%, with no significant differences depending on HPV status. The highest prevalence was observed for posterior pharyngeal wall SCC (24%), followed by soft palate (17%), palatine tonsil (15%), and base of tongue (8%). RLNMs were associated with a significantly higher risk of death (HR:2.54;IC95%1.89–3.41) and progression (HR:2.44;IC95%1.80–3.30).

Conclusions

The prevalence of RLNMs in OPSCC was 13%, being higher in tumors of the posterior pharyngeal wall. RLNMs were associated with unfavorable outcomes.
A study of different battery thermal management systems for battery pack cooling in electric vehicles
Authors: Wankhede Sagar , Thorat Prajwal , Shisode Sanket , Sonawane Swapnil , Wankhade Rugved
Published: August 2022

The Thermal Management System (TMS) of the battery is one of the most significant systems in the building of an electric vehicle, with the goal of improving the battery's performance and life. The benefits and drawbacks of the proposed Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS) solutions are thoroughly examined, as well as the adaptability of these systems. The purpose of this paper is to critically evaluate previous studies and research on the types, designs, and operating principles of BTMSs used in the building of various‐shaped lithium‐ion batteries, with a focus on cooling methods. The information thus compiled provides necessary and valuable information to people interested in this area, as well as future research directions, which may be utilized to improve the effectiveness of the BTMSs and hence the overall efficiency of the electric car. Details of various TMSs, such as air, Phase Change Material (PCM), Heat Pipe (HP), liquid, and immersion cooling, are addressed and contrasted with the goal of enhancing exterior heat dissipation. The major drawback of PCM‐ and HP‐based systems is the efficient change of state is not achieved, which results in a poor cooling effect of the battery pack. Liquid cooling is suggested as the most suitable method for large‐scale battery packs charged/discharged at higher charge rates (C‐rates) and in high‐temperature environments and it is suggested as the most suitable method for large‐scale battery packs charged/discharged at higher C‐rates and in high‐temperature environments.
Efficacy of a peer‐based in‐home education program in improving social‐emotional outcomes of parents and children
Authors: Koop Jennifer , Holliday Daniel , Mathews Brittany L. , Namaste Jessica , Alt Rebecca , Biel Christa Haring
Published: August 2022

Significant disparities in education and social‐emotional outcomes exist between racial/ethnic groups, particularly impacting children growing up in impoverished environments. Home visitation intervention programs, such as the Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY), have been used for decades to improve academic readiness in these vulnerable preschool‐aged children. Although the benefits of HIPPY on academic readiness and performance are well‐documented, there has been no examination of social‐emotional benefits to participating parent‐child dyads. This study followed a HIPPY cohort over the course of 1 year to evaluate change in maternal and child social‐emotional and behavioral functioning. Program participants demonstrated reduced parental stress and depression and increased parental social connection as well as reduced child externalizing behaviors and improved child adaptive functioning over the course of the program, even in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic and associated lockdown. These data highlight the additional benefits of early home‐based academic intervention programs.
What factors influence dyadic synchrony? A systematic review of the literature on predictors of mother–infant dyadic processes of shared behavior and affect
Authors: Golds Lisa , Gillespie‐Smith Karri , Nimbley Emy , MacBeth Angus
Published: August 2022

Dyadic behavioral synchrony is a complex interactional process that takes place between the mother and her infant. In the first year of life, when the infant is prelinguistic, processes such as synchrony enable the dyad to communicate through shared behavior and affect. To date, no systematic review has been carried out to understand the risk and protective factors that influence behavioral synchrony in the mother–infant dyad. The aim of this review was to identify and evaluate the factors that influence behavioral synchrony in the mother–infant dyad, when the infant is between 3 and 9 months old. Key electronic databases were searched between 1970 and April 2021, and 28 eligible studies were identified for review. As the results were largely heterogeneous, four subgroups of factors were identified: (i) infant demographics, (ii) physiological factors, (iii) maternal mental health, and (iv) miscellaneous factors. Identified risk factors and covariates suggest that social determinants of health, underpinned by biological factors, play a large role in influencing behavioral synchrony within the dyad. Implications for the need to identify additional risk and protective factors, as well as design support for at‐risk families are discussed.
Enhanced electrocatalytic activities of MoO3/rGO nanocomposites for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Bai Ji‐Rui , Pu Kai‐Bo , Zhang Kai , Wang Yun‐Hai
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

The availability of highly active, low‐cost and stable oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts remains a barrier to the development of energy techniques. This study presents molybdenum trioxide/reduced graphene oxide (MoO3/rGO) composite as an effective electrocatalytic material for ORR.

RESULTS

The nanosized MoO3 particles loaded on rGO as an efficient ORR catalyst was prepared via a two‐step method. The MoO3(0.1)/rGO nanocomposite showed the highest content of Mo6+ and rGO carbon among rGO and MoO3/rGO. The MoO3(0.1)/rGO showed the highest limiting current density of −3.04 mA cm−2 at 0.2 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, which was comparable to the commercial 10% Pt/C in the present work. The electron transfer number of 2.74 on MoO3(0.1)/rGO indicated ORR selectivity towards the four‐electron pathway was not very high. The electrochemical active surface area of the MoO3(0.1)/rGO nanocomposite was 9.94 cm2, which was about twice the commercial 10% Pt/C. The small Tafel slope of 57.56 mV dec−1 confirms the high ORR activity of the MoO3(0.1)/rGO catalyst. The MoO3(0.1)/rGO also showed good stability under alkaline conditions and better methanol tolerance compared to the commercial 10% Pt/C.

CONCLUSION

The increased activity of the MoO3(0.1)/rGO composite may be attributed to the higher content of Mo6+ and rGO carbon in the catalyst. Performance of the catalysts may be further improved by optimizing the experimental conditions. The synthesized MoO3/rGO composite is a potential alternative electrocatalyst for ORR. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
臓器提供経験施設への実態調査研究に基づく新たな体制構築に関する提言（Ver. 1）(Recommendations for building a new system based on fact–finding research on organ donation experience facilities (Ver. 1))
Authors: (Hajime Ono) 小野 元 , (Yasuhiko Ajimi) 安心院 康彦 , (Takahiro Atsumi) 渥美 生弘 , (Shinji Inada) 稲田 眞治 , (Hiroyuki Kunishima) 國島 広之 , (Takeshi Shimazu) 嶋津 岳士 , (Shoji Yokobori) 横堀 將司 , (Mikiko Yoshikawa) 吉川 美喜子 , (Hiroyuki Yokota) 横田 裕行 , (Hiroto Egawa) 江川 裕人 , (Atsushi Mizutani) 水谷 敦史 , (Kaori Omiya) 大宮 かおり , (Naoko Ogawa) 小川 直子 , (Harumi Nakamura) 中村 晴美
Published: August 2022

世界的な新型コロナウイルス感染症（COVID–19）の蔓延により，本邦でも残念ながら多くの重症患者が発生するに至り，COVID–19による医療提供体制のひっ迫は救急・集中治療に深刻な影響を与えている。しかし臓器提供は終末期を迎えた患者の最期の権利であり，続く臓器移植は臓器不全の患者の生命を救うことができる医療であることから，たとえコロナ禍であっても患者・家族の臓器提供の意思を最大限尊重するべきである。本研究班では，「新型コロナウイルス感染症蔓延下における救命救急センターに対する臓器提供の実態調査」および「コロナ禍で臓器提供を経験された施設に対する実態調査」においてCOVID–19蔓延下における救急・集中治療の実態と，実際にコロナ禍で臓器提供を経験した施設の現状を調査した。本研究は令和2年度厚生労働行政推進調査事業費補助金により実施された一部である。
外傷周術期の鎮痛を契機に診断されたNSAIDs不耐症の1例(A case of NSAIDs intolerance diagnosed after perioperative analgesia for trauma)
Authors: (Masayuki Arimatsu) 有松 優行 , (Hisashi Dote) 土手 尚 , (Shioko Takeda) 武田 栞幸 , (Takahiro Atsumi) 渥美 生弘
Published: August 2022

Nonsteroidal anti–inflammatory drugs（NSAIDs）不耐症は種々のNSAIDsの使用でアレルギー様症状を来す疾患で，単一の薬剤から生じるNSAIDアレルギーとは区別される。アセトアミノフェンを含めたすべてのCOX–1阻害薬に対して過敏反応を示すのが特徴である。単一の薬剤を回避すればよいアレルギーと異なるため，その診断は発作予防の観点から重要である。症例は23歳の女性。交通事故による左橈骨遠位端骨折，右脛骨骨折，右腓骨骨折を受傷して入院し，二期的に手術を施行した。初回の手術後にロキソプロフェンを使用した際，全身の膨疹と紅斑，および咽頭の掻痒感が出現し，薬剤アレルギーとして対応した。2回目の手術の周術期ではロキソプロフェンの使用を回避したが，翌日に掻痒感を伴う膨疹と呼吸困難が出現したためアナフィラキシーとして対応した。その後，アセトアミノフェン投与後にもアレルギー様症状が出現したため，被疑薬のプリックテストを施行したがすべて陰性で，I型アレルギー関与の可能性は低いと考えられた。内服テストを施行した結果，アセトアミノフェンの少量内服で発疹と掻痒感が生じたためNSAIDs不耐症と診断した。複数の鎮痛薬に対してアナフィラキシー症状を呈する患者ではNSAIDs不耐症を鑑別に挙げるべきである。
ポリエチレングリコールを含む経口腸管洗浄剤の服用を契機に心停止に至ったKounis症候群の1例(Kounis syndrome type 3 induced by oral enterolavage liquid: a case report)
Authors: (Tomoaki Nakatsukasa) 中務 智彰 , (Yohei Inoue) 井上 洋平 , (Ayaka Keshi) 芥子 文香 , (Tomoya Ueda) 上田 友哉 , (Yasuyuki Urisono) 瓜園 泰之 , (Yoshihiko Saito) 斎藤 能彦 , (Hidetaka Fukushima) 福島 英賢
Published: August 2022

症例は59歳の男性。他院にて下部消化管内視鏡検査目的にポリエチレングリコールを含む経口腸管洗浄剤を内服した。内服後に全身掻痒感，血圧と酸素飽和度の低下を認め，アナフィラキシーショックと判断され，アドレナリン0.3mg筋注とメチルプレドニゾロン500mgの静注の後に，当院高度救命救急センターに転院搬送された。来院時は意識清明で，血圧170/114mmHg，脈拍数146/minであったが，来院23分後に突然心室細動から心停止となった。直ちに心配蘇生を行い，17分後に自己心拍が再開した。十二誘導心電図検査でV1–3誘導にQ波，V4–6誘導でST低下を認めたため，緊急に冠動脈造影検査となった。冠動脈造影では左前下行枝に有意狭窄を認め，光干渉断層計検査で左前下行枝に留置されているステント内に血栓像が認められたことから，Kounis症候群type 3と診断した。経皮的冠動脈インターベンションにて冠血行再建術を施行し，ステントを拡張した。以後，経過良好につき第9病日に独歩にて退院となった。ポリエチレングリコールによるアナフィラキシーは稀であるが，冠動脈ステント留置歴がある場合にはKounis症候群type 3を生じ心停止に至ることもあることから，使用の際には注意を要する。
Assessing homogeneity of land surface air temperature observations using sparse‐input reanalyses
Authors: Gillespie Ian , Haimberger Leo , Compo Gilbert P. , Thorne Peter W.
Published: August 2022

State‐of‐the‐art homogenisation approaches for any test site rely upon the availability of a sufficient number of neighbouring sites with similar climatic conditions and a sufficient quantity of overlapping measurements. These conditions are not always met, particularly in poorly sampled regions and epochs. Modern sparse‐input reanalysis products which are constrained by observed sea surface temperatures, sea‐ice and surface pressure observations, continue to improve, offering independently produced surface temperature estimates back to the early 19th century. This study undertakes an exploratory analysis on the applicability of sparse‐input reanalysis to identify breakpoints in available basic station data. Adjustments are then applied using a variety of reanalysis and neighbour‐based approaches to produce four distinct estimates. The methodological independence of the approach may offer valuable insights into historical data quality issues. The resulting estimates are compared to Global Historical Climatology Network version 4 (GHCNMv4) at various aggregations. Comparisons are also made with five existing global land surface monthly time series. We find a lower rate of long‐term warming which principally arises in differences in estimated behaviour prior to the early 20th century. Differences depend upon the exact pair of estimates, varying between 15 and 40% for changes from 1850–1900 to 2005–2014. Differences are much smaller for metrics starting after 1900 and negligible after 1950. Initial efforts at quantifying parametric uncertainty suggest this would be substantial and may lead to overlap between these new estimates and existing estimates. Further work would be required to use these data products in an operational context. This would include better understanding the reasons for apparent early period divergence including the impact of spatial infilling choices, quantification of parametric uncertainty, and a means to update the product post‐2015 when the NOAA‐CIRES‐DOE 20CRv3 sparse input reanalysis product, upon which they are based, presently ceases.
Electrochemical characterization of a novel multicomponent Al75Mg5Li10Zn5Cu5 low entropy alloy in different pH environments
Authors: Sudha Priya , Tun K. S. , Gupta Manoj , Mourad Abdel‐Hamid I. , Vincent S.
Published: August 2022

The corrosion behavior and microstructure of a novel multicomponent Al75Mg5Li10Zn5Cu5 low entropy alloy (Al LEA) were investigated in different Cl− ion concentrations of acidic (HCl), neutral (NaCl), and alkaline (NaOH) media. The study was performed by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods. The surface morphologies and chemical composition were examined by using a scanning electron microscope with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The results indicated that with the increase of the Cl− ion concentrations, the degradation rate with more pits and cracks was observed in both acidic and neutral media. This is due to the breakdown of Al(OH)3/Al2O3 passive layer. In an alkaline medium, increasing of pH value from pH 8 to pH 12, there was a slight increment in corrosion rate (CR). However, the corrosion trend was not witnessed on alloy surfaces because of the formation of Mg32(Al, Zn)49 and AlCu phases, which are more stable than α‐Al. The order of Al‐LEA CR is found to be HCl > NaCl > NaOH. The results obtained from the polarization and EIS were in good agreement with each other.
The probe‐format graphite calorimeter, Aerrow, for absolute dosimetry in ultrahigh pulse dose rate electron beams
Authors: Bourgouin Alexandra , Keszti Federico , Schönfeld Andreas A. , Hackel Thomas , Kozelka Jakub , Hildreth Jeff , Simon William , Schüller Andreas , Kapsch Ralf‐Peter , Renaud James
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this investigation is to evaluate the use of a probe‐format graphite calorimeter, Aerrow, as an absolute and relative dosimeter of high‐energy pulse dose rate (UHPDR) electron beams for in‐water reference and depth–dose‐type measurements, respectively.

Methods

In this paper, the calorimeter system is used to investigate the potential influence of dose per pulses delivered up to 5.6 Gy, the number of pulses delivered per measurement, and its potential for relative measurement (depth–dose curve measurement). The calorimeter system is directly compared against an Advanced Markus ion chamber. The finite element method was used to calculate heat transfer corrections along the percentage depth dose of a 20‐MeV electron beam. Monte Carlo–calculated dose conversion factors necessary to calculate absorbed dose‐to‐water at a point from the measured dose‐to‐graphite are also presented.

Results

The comparison of Aerrow against a fully calibrated Advanced Markus chamber, corrected for the saturation effect, has shown consistent results in terms of dose‐to‐water determination. The measured reference depth is within 0.5 mm from the expected value from Monte Carlo simulation. The relative standard uncertainty estimated for Aerrow was 1.06%, which is larger compared to alanine dosimetry (McEwen et al. https://doi.org/10.1088/0026‐1394/52/2/272) but has the advantage of being a real‐time detector.

Conclusion

In this investigation, it was demonstrated that the Aerrow probe–type graphite calorimeter can be used for relative and absolute dosimetries in water in an UHPDR electron beam. To the author's knowledge, this is the first reported use of an absorbed dose calorimeter for an in‐water percentage depth–dose curve measurement. The use of the Aerrow in quasi‐adiabatic mode has greatly simplified the signal readout, compared to isothermal mode, as the resistance was directly measured with a high‐stability digital multimeter.