bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Model based evaluation of long‐term efficacy of existing and alternative colorectal cancer screening offers: A case study for Germany
Authors: Heisser Thomas , Hoffmeister Michael , Brenner Hermann 
Published: December 2021

AbstractFor individuals willing to minimize their lifetime risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), the most effective screening approach remains unclear. Here, we sought to compare the long‐term performance of existing and alternative CRC screening offers in a case study for Germany. Applying the perspective of a perfectly adhering man or woman at average risk, we used COSIMO, a validated Markov‐based multistate model, to simulate the effects of current CRC screening offers in Germany. These include age‐ and sex‐dependent offers for fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) or screening colonoscopy, which may be used twice starting at age 50 in men and age 55 in women. For comparison, we modeled screening colonoscopies at ages 50, 60 and 70, screening colonoscopies at ages 50 and 60, followed by biennial FITs and conventional FIT‐based strategies at varying intervals. We found that the highest reductions in lifetime risks of developing (76%‐84%) and dying from CRC (82%‐90%) were achieved by three colonoscopies, followed by annual FIT screening and strategies combining both modalities. In men, additional screening from age 70 onwards reduced the risk of dying from CRC by another 9% units and resulted in 32 to 39 additional life‐years‐gained per 1000 individuals. Among women, three colonoscopies outperformed current screening offers in all outcomes, at little risk of screening‐related complications. In summary, several FIT‐ and colonoscopy‐based offers yield comparably high CRC risk reductions, including approaches combining both modalities. German screening offers may be optimized by lowering the eligibility age for screening colonoscopy for women, along with additional offers for the elderly.
Maternal mortality in Lebanon: Increased vulnerability among Syrian refugees
Authors: El Kak Faysal , Harb Hilda , Daouk Sirine , Nassar Anwar , Kabakian‐Khasholian Tamar 
Published: December 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the burden and causes of maternal deaths between Syrian and Lebanese women for the period of 2010–2018.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted of maternal deaths from the national notification system at the Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon during the period of 2010–2018. Maternal deaths among Syrian refugees and Lebanese citizens were compared based on cause of death, age of the woman, and nationality. Causes of maternal deaths were categorized as direct and indirect following WHO definitions.ResultsThe maternal mortality ratio among the Syrian refugee women in Lebanon was higher than that of Lebanese women in the period 2010–2018, with its highest rate of 55.1 in 2017. Hemorrhage and indirect causes of maternal deaths are more common among Syrian refugee women whereas embolism and hypertension have higher proportions among Lebanese women. Maternal deaths within 48 h after birth are more common among Syrian than Lebanese women.ConclusionSyrian refugee women carry an increased risk for maternal mortality in Lebanon. Improving timely access and equitable provision of appropriate care should be a priority for the health system in Lebanon.
3D‐printed bioresorbable poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) and quantum‐dot nanocomposites: Scaffolds for enhanced bone mineralization and inbuilt co‐monitoring
Authors: Nasrin Aklima , Hassan Mahbub , Mirabet Maria Montero , Windhab Norbert , Gomes Vincent G. 
Published: December 2021

AbstractMultifunctional 3D‐printed nanocomposites based on poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid), that is, PLGA (RESOMER® LG857S) were developed for simultaneous monitoring of cells and scaffold as a function of time and spectral responses. These were achieved by impregnating carbon quantum dots (CQDs) on PLGA using melt‐blending, plasticating extrusion, and 3D‐printing. The nanocomposites enabled enhanced bio‐affinity and cellular interactions for bone tissue engineering (TE). PLGA (control) and PLGA‐CQD scaffolds were used for growing human adipose‐derived‐stem‐cells (ADSCs) and tested for cell biocompatibility, cellular adhesion, growth, and osteogenesis. CQDs were found to enhance the hydrophilicity of nanocomposites and promote cellular nesting. MTS assays confirmed that CQDs on PLGA act as cell anchoring sites, thereby enhancing seeding efficiency and cell proliferation. Alkaline phosphate tests showed increased osteogenesis and Alizarin assays confirmed enhanced bone mineralization on PLGA‐CQD. The qPCR tests based on selected mRNA expressions showed that the incorporation of CQDs significantly enhanced osteogenesis of ADSCs during all three phases of cell differentiation. The intrinsic luminescence of the composites allowed label‐free monitoring of cell proliferation and bone mineralization on the scaffolds. Thus, the CQDs facilitated significant enhancements in composite processability with customized fabrication of 3D printed scaffolds, bone tissue osteoconductivity, and monitoring of cell‐scaffold activities, offering multifunctional benefits for bone TE.
Dexmedetomidine protects cardiomyocytes against hypoxia/reoxygenation injury via multiple mechanisms
Authors: Cai Shunv , Liu Yixing , Cheng Yun , Yuan Junbo , Fang Jun 
Published: December 2021

AbstractBackgroundMyocardial infarction (MI) is a serious cardiovascular disease associated with myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Dexmedetomidine (Dex), an α2‐adrenoceptor agonist, has been reported to protect against I/R injury. We examined the cardioprotective effects of Dex on cardiomyocytes under hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) conditions and explored the underlying mechanisms.Materials and methodsA H/R model was established to mimic the MI injury. The CCK‐8 assay was performed to measure cell viability. Cellular apoptosis was measured using the Annexin V fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐propidium iodide (PI) staining. The levels of interleukin (IL)‐1α and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured using a commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured using the 2'‐7’ dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH‐DA) staining assay. In addition, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and caspase‐3 were measured using a commercial kit. siRNA was used to silence Bcl‐2, catalase, or STAT3. Western blotting was used to measure the change in the levels of proteins.ResultsDex improved the cell viability and inhibited the inflammatory response in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R treatment. In addition, Dex inhibited apoptosis and alleviated the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and oxidative stress in H9c2 cells under the H/R treatment. Mechanism investigation showed that Dex inhibited the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. Moreover, Dex enhanced the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in H/R‐treated H9c2 cells.ConclusionAltogether, our findings suggested Dex as a promising therapeutic agent for myocardial I/R.
Association between long‐term donepezil treatment and brain regional amyloid and tau burden among individuals with mild cognitive impairment assessed using 18F‐AV‐45 and 18F‐AV‐1451 PET
Authors: Li Jian , Zheng Chaojie , Ge Qi , Yan Shaozhen , Paranjpe Manish D , Hu Shuo , Zhou Yun ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: December 2021

AbstractThis study aims to investigate the association between long‐term donepezil treatment and brain neuropathological burden and cognitive function in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients. Preprocessed 18F‐AV‐45 amyloid and 18F‐AV‐1451 tau positron emission tomography (PET) images, magnetic resonance imaging images (MRIs), demographic information, and donepezil use status were downloaded from 255 MCI participants enrolled in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative database. Partial volume correction was applied to all PET images. Structural MRIs were used for PET spatial normalization. Regions of interest (ROIs) were defined in standard space, and standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) images relative to the cerebellum were computed. Multiple linear regression with the least absolute shrinkage selector operator was performed to analyze the effect of long‐term donepezil treatment on (a) the SUVR of each 18F‐AV‐45 or 18F‐AV‐1451 brain PET ROI after adjusting for age, sex, education, ApoE ε4 status, and AD‐associated disease risk factors; and (b) cognitive performance after adjusting for age, sex education, ApoE ε4 status, AD‐associated disease risk factors, and regional amyloid or tau burden. In adjusted models, long‐term donepezil treatment was associated with greater amyloid load in the orbital frontal, superior frontal, parietal, posterior precuneus, posterior cingulate, lateral temporal, inferior temporal and fusiform regions, and tau burden in the posterior cingulate, entorhinal and parahippocampal gyrus. Long‐term donepezil treatment was also associated with worse performance on the 13‐item Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale‐Cognitive subscale after adjusting for AD‐related risk factors and regional brain amyloid or tau load. These results indicate that long‐term donepezil treatment is associated with increased regional amyloid and tau burden and worse cognitive performance among individuals with MCI. Our study highlights the importance of using noninvasive and quantitative 18F‐AV‐45 and 18F‐AV‐1451 PET to elucidate the consequences of drug administration in AD studies.
The impact and value of a pharmacist within a persistent pain management service
Authors: Mayfield Karla , Nguyen Huong , Smith Cathy , Morris Tania 
Published: December 2021

AbstractA model of a pharmacist‐led consultation clinic within a Persistent Pain Management Service (PPMS) has recently been implemented to improve accessibility to medication review, promote opioid stewardship and reduce high‐risk medication‐taking behaviours. This audit aims to determine the impact of a pharmacist on opioid de‐escalation and the perceived value of pharmacist interventions. This audit was conducted at an outpatient PPMS between 30/10/19 and 25/3/20. Pharmacist interventions and deprescribing plans from 1:1 consultation with patients were communicated in writing to general practitioners (GPs) for actioning. Opioid consumption was quantified using oral morphine equivalent daily dose (oMEDD). Self‐rated patient, GP and PPMS staff questionnaires were used to assess perception of value and impact of pharmacist service. Thirty‐five patients were included. Mean oMEDD reduced from 86.2mg to 73.4mg (p < 0.0001) after a mean of 64 days. Pharmacist consultation resulted in improved patient understanding of medication roles in chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) (self‐rated score: 6.4 increased to 8.0 on a 10‐point scale, p < 0.0001) and improved confidence to safely administer medications (7.2 increased to 8.7, p < 0.0001). There was 100% patient satisfaction. GP questionnaire data (n = 18) indicated 90% of GPs plan to implement at least one recommendation. GP’s indicated recommendations were valuable, practical and clear (rated 4.1, 4.1 & 4.4, respectively, on a 5‐point scale). Pharmacist service was associated with reduced opioid intake and improved patient understanding regarding roles and harms of medications in CNCP. Pharmacist interventions were routinely implemented and valued by GPs.
Evaluation of a 3D‐Printed Transoral Robotic Surgery Simulator Utilizing Artificial Tissue
Authors: Murr Alexander T. , Lumley Catherine J. , Feins Richard H. , Hackman Trevor G. 
Published: December 2021

ABSTRACTObjectives/HypothesisTransoral robotic surgery (TORS) poses challenges for operators in training, with limited robot access on a platform requiring distinct surgical skills. Few simulators exist, and current virtual reality training modules exclude head and neck simulations. This study evaluates the construct validity for a novel low‐cost TORS simulator.Study DesignSingle institution prospective observational study.MethodsUsing 3D‐printed oral cavity structures and replaceable artificial tissue components, a modular TORS simulator was constructed for short‐duration hands‐on simulations with the da Vinci SI robot. Sixteen surgeons of differing robotic skill levels, no experience (novice), prior experience, and formal robot training, participated in simulated tonsil and tongue base tumor resections. Video recordings of each participant were graded by a blinded robotically trained surgeon using a 35‐point Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Surgery (GEARS) criterion adapted for the TORS simulator.ResultsOperators reporting formal robotic training or prior robot experience achieved significantly higher mean total GEARS scores compared to novice operators (32 vs. 20.5; P < .001). Overall, mean total GEARS scores correlated with reported experience level; novice operators scored 54% of total points at 19 (4.5), operators with prior experience scored 82.3% of total points at 28.8 (2.6), and robotically trained operators scored 97.1% of total points at 34 (1.7).ConclusionWith a GEARS criterion, our simulator successfully differentiated novice from experienced and robotically trained operators of the da Vinci SI robot during simulated tonsillectomy and base of tongue resections. These findings support the construct validity of this prototype simulator and offer a foundation for further testing of predictive validity.Level of Evidence2 Laryngoscope, 132:1588–1593, 2022
Research Progress on Multilayer‐Structured Polymer‐Based Dielectric Nanocomposites for Energy Storage
Authors: Cheng Lian , Gao Huayun , Liu Kai , Tan Hua , Fan Pengyuan , Liu Yang , Hu Yongming , Yan Zilin , Zhang Haibo 
Published: December 2021

AbstractThe demand for a new generation of high‐energy‐density dielectric materials in the field of capacitive energy storage is promoted by the rise of high‐power applications in electronic devices and electrical systems. Polymer‐based dielectric nanocomposites with ultrahigh charge–discharge rates and power densities play essential roles in energy storage. Recently, multilayer structure polymer‐based dielectric nanocomposites (MSPBDNs) with improved dielectric constant, breakdown constant, and discharged energy density have gained widespread interest because of their immense potential. In the present work, MSPBDNs are classified, depending on the nature of the interlayer, into those with a high insulation layer, a high dielectric layer, and a gradient structure. To further understand the breakdown process of MSPBDNs, the authors elaborate on multilayer‐structured models, analysis breakdown mechanisms, and simulations. Despite the great progress achieved, the field of developing a novel topological structure remains open to further investigation and optimization. In addition, the research prospects and directions of energy storage fields are briefly discussed and summarized.
Crown Ether‐Based Supramolecular Polymers: From Synthesis to Self‐Assembly
Authors: Duan Zhaozhao , Xu Fenfen , Huang Xiaohui , Qian Yongchao , Li Hui , Tian Wei 
Published: December 2021

AbstractSupramolecular polymers not only possess many advantages of traditional polymers, but also have many unique characteristics. Supramolecular polymers can be constructed by self‐assembly of various noncovalent interactions. Host–guest interaction, as one important type of noncovalent interactions, has been widely applied to construct supramolecular polymers. From the perspective of classification of the recognition system motifs, host–guest recognition motifs mainly include crown ether, cyclodextrin, calixarene, cucurbituril, and pillararene‐based host–guest recognition pairs. Crown ethers, as the first‐generation macrocyclic hosts, have played a very important part in the development of supramolecular chemistry. Due to the easy modification of crown ethers, various crown ether derivatives have been prepared by attaching some functional groups to the edges of crown ethers, which endowed them with some interesting properties and made them ideal candidates for the fabrication of supramolecular polymers. This review gives a review of the preparation of crown ether‐based supramolecular polymers (CSPs) and summarizes crown ether‐based recognition pairs, organization methods, topological structures, stimuli‐responsiveness, and functional characteristics.
Multiple classes and isoforms of the RNA polymerase recycling motor protein HelD
Authors: Larsen Joachim S. , Miller Michael , Oakley Aaron J. , Dixon Nicholas E. , Lewis Peter J. 
Published: December 2021

AbstractEfficient control of transcription is essential in all organisms. In bacteria, where DNA replication and transcription occur simultaneously, the replication machinery is at risk of colliding with highly abundant transcription complexes. This can be exacerbated by the fact that transcription complexes pause frequently. When pauses are long‐lasting, the stalled complexes must be removed to prevent collisions with either another transcription complex or the replication machinery. HelD is a protein that represents a new class of ATP‐dependent motor proteins distantly related to helicases. It was first identified in the model Gram‐positive bacteriumBacillus subtilisand is involved in removing and recycling stalled transcription complexes. To date, two classes of HelD have been identified: one in the low G+C and the other in the high G+C Gram‐positive bacteria. In this work, we have undertaken the first comprehensive investigation of the phylogenetic diversity of HelD proteins. We show that genes in certain bacterial classes have been inherited by horizontal gene transfer, many organisms contain multiple expressed isoforms of HelD, some of which are associated with antibiotic resistance, and that there is a third class of HelD protein found in Gram‐negative bacteria. In summary, HelD proteins represent an important new class of transcription factors associated with genome maintenance and antibiotic resistance that are conserved across the Eubacterial kingdom.
Colonic Delivery of α‐Linolenic Acid by an Advanced Nutrient Delivery System Prolongs Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1 Secretion and Inhibits Food Intake in Mice
Authors: Kamakura Remi , Raza Ghulam Shere , Mäkilä Ermei , Riikonen Joakim , Kovalainen Miia , Ueta Yoichi , Lehto Vesa‐Pekka , Salonen Jarno , Herzig Karl‐Heinz 
Published: December 2021

ScopeNutrients stimulate the secretion of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), an incretin hormone, secreted from enteroendocrine L‐cells which decreases food intake. Thus, GLP‐1 analogs are approved for the treatment of obesity, yet cost and side effects limit their use. L‐cells are mainly localized in the distal ileum and colon, which hinders the utilization of nutrients targeting GLP‐1 secretion. This study proposes a controlled delivery system for nutrients, inducing a prolonged endogenous GLP‐1 release which results in a decrease food intake.Methods and Resultsα‐Linolenic acid (αLA) was loaded into thermally hydrocarbonized porous silicon (THCPSi) particles. In vitro characterization and in vivo effects of αLA loaded particles on GLP‐1 secretion and food intake were studied in mice. A total of 40.4 ± 3.2% of loaded αLA is released from particles into biorelevant buffer over 24 h, and αLA loaded THCPSi significantly increased in vitro GLP‐1 secretion. Single‐dose orally given αLA loaded mesoporous particles increased plasma active GLP‐1 levels at 3 and 4 h and significantly reduced the area under the curve of 24 h food intake in mice.ConclusionsαLA loaded THCPSi particles could be used to endogenously stimulate sustain gastrointestinal hormone release and reduce food intake.
The association between fear of COVID‐19 and mental health: The mediating roles of burnout and job stress among emergency nursing staff
Authors: Ahorsu Daniel Kwasi , Lin Chung‐Ying , Marznaki Zohreh Hosseini , H. Pakpour Amir 
Published: December 2021

AbstractAimThis current study examined the mediation roles of burnout and job stress in the association between fear of COVID‐19 and mental health among emergency nurses.DesignCross‐sectional survey.MethodsA total of 516 emergency nurses with a mean age of 41.18 (SD = 8.24), mostly females (76.16%) and married (78.9%) responded to measures on fear of COVID‐19, burnout, job stress and mental health between 15 September and 7 November 2020.ResultsThere was a significantly direct effect between (a) fear of COVID‐19 and mental health, (b) fear of COVID‐19 and mediators (burnout and job stress) and (c) mediators (burnout and job stress) and mental health. Also, there was a significantly indirect effect between fear of COVID‐19 and mental health through job stress, burnout or both.ConclusionsFear of COVID‐19 directly and indirectly influenced the mental health of emergency nurses. Therefore, hospital authorities should provide sufficient resources to allay the fears of nurses during this COVID‐19 pandemic period.
Utilization of validated criteria for diagnostic assessment in nonsynchronous, allopatric populations: Role in archeologic diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and differentially distinguishing it from mimics
Authors: Rothschild Bruce M. 
Published: December 2021

AbstractThe origin of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been controversial, with devouée committed to either New World or Old World origins. Support for the latter was predicated on observation of isolated Old World pre‐Columbian cases of inflammatory arthritis. The hypothesis is that spectral assessment of disease characteristics can determine the likelihood that pre‐Columbian Old World claims are validly attributed to RA. Do they represent spectrum outliers or do they have a different etiology (e.g., spondyloarthropathy)? The published literature was surveyed for reports alleging pre‐Columbian, Old World cases of RA. The disease characteristics in published reports claiming presence of pre‐Columbian RA were analyzed. Spectrum of disease (manifestations as population phenomenon) was utilized to assess likelihood diagnoses, when only isolated cases are recognized. None of the accessible 41 reported cases, with adequate information to allow assessment, described/illustrated individuals with the polyarticular, marginally distributed erosions in the absence of peri‐erosional sclerosis, reactive new bone formation, or ankyloses/fusion that is typical of RA. The findings in 90% of reports were actually classic for spondyloarthropathy. The probability of valid diagnosis of RA among individuals with subchondral erosions was less than 0.0001; individuals with joint fusion/ankyloses, <0.0001; and individuals with axial joint disease, 0.0002. Observation only of outliers, without other individuals (in the same sample/population) representing the spectrum of disease that characterizes RA, provided a spectral pattern incompatible with that diagnosis. The role of spectral patterns was supported as an effective tool for generating confidence in paleopathological diagnoses. Additionally, confidently identified pre‐Columbian Old World RA removes the objection to its suggested New World Origin.
Activin B, a new player in kidney fibrosis?†
Authors: Krepinsky Joan C 
Published: December 2021

AbstractInterest has been growing in the role of activin A in both acute and chronic kidney disease. The role of other activins, however, remains relatively unexplored. In a recent issue of The Journal of Pathology, an elegant study by Sun et al identified upregulation of INHBB, the subunit of activin B, in three different models of kidney fibrosis, as well as in human kidneys with fibrosis. This increase was shown to be mediated by upregulation of the transcription factor Sox9. Using overexpression and inhibition strategies, the importance of INHBB to kidney interstitial fibroblast activation and kidney fibrosis was clearly shown. Importantly, INHBB and Sox9 are not appreciably expressed in normal tissue. These studies lay important groundwork for the further investigation of activin B targeting as a potential therapeutic approach to attenuate kidney fibrosis. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.