Assessing the frequency and types of errors involved in the use of a modified intravenous N-acetylcysteine protocol for acetaminophen overdose

BACKGROUND

Acetaminophen overdose is a leading cause of acute liver failure in developing countries. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a highly effective antidote for acetaminophen hepatotoxicity, typically initiated in the emergency department. Due to a known high rate of errors with the standard three-bag IV NAC protocol, in 2019, the Ontario Poison Center changed to a modified 3% IV NAC one-bag protocol. This study was undertaken to determine the frequency and types of errors associated with the use of this protocol.

METHODS

Data were gathered via chart review of Ontario Poison Centre electronic medical record cases identified as receiving IV NAC for acetaminophen overdose between August 1 and September 30, 2022. 218 total charts were identified, and 188 were deemed eligible based on inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Errors were identified in 25% of charts, consisting of dosing errors in 11.7%, stopping errors in 9.0%, initiation errors in 3.7%, and interruptions in therapy in 3.2%. Dosing errors were the most common type of error (44.4%), with overdoses occurring three times more than underdoses. Errors were identified at 39% of geographic locations in the charts reviewed, with similar frequency in Ontario, Manitoba, and Nunavut. Clinical outcomes were similar in charts with and without errors.

INTERPRETATION

The rate of errors identified with this 3% IV NAC one-bag protocol is lower than reported for the standard three-bag protocol, but remains high due to dosing errors. Previously reported issues with prolonged interruptions in therapy with the standard three-bag protocol were low with the current 3% one-bag protocol. Although severe outcomes are rare, IV NAC overdose can be fatal. Identifying local factors in emergency departments that can contribute to administration errors (i.e., dose calculation, pump programming issues) can enhance the safety of this important antidote.

Novel image analyser-assisted morphometric methodology offer unique opportunity for selection of embryos with potential for implantation

BACKGROUND

Previous studies looked into the connections between pregnancy and the Zona Pellucida (ZP) thickness and Zona Pellucida Thickness Variation (ZPTV), as well as the embryo's radius, circumference, perimeter and global symmetry. However, no research has linked embryo implantation and pregnancy to the percentage of ZP thinning, the reduction in ooplasm volume, and the increase in perivitelline space (PVS) volume. Our objective is to correlate the percentage of ZP thinning, the percentage of ooplasm volume shrinkage and the percentage of PVS increase to the implantation. These data will be used for embryo selection as well as it can be put into a software that will assist embryo selection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study included 281 patients, all of them had 2 embryos transferred, 149 patients got pregnant with two gestation sacs and 132 patients did not get pregnant. All of the transferred embryos had the ZP thickness measured several times from time of ICSI till Embryo Transfer (ET), the ooplasm volume was calculated from time of ICSI till two Pronuclei (2PN) fading and the PVS was calculated from the ICSI time till the 2PN fading.

RESULTS

The first characteristic is the change in the average ZP thickness that decreased by 32.7% + 5.3% at 70 h for the implanted embryos (Group 1) versus 23.6% + 4.8% for non-implanted embryos (Group 2) p = 0.000. The second characteristic is the average reduction in the volume of the ooplasm which is 20.5% + 4.3% in Group 1 versus 15.1% + 5.2% in Group 2, p = 0.000. The third characteristic is the increase in the volume of the PVS which was 38.1% + 7.6% in Group 1 versus 31.6% + 9.7% in Group 2 p = 0.000.

CONCLUSION

The implanted embryos showed higher percent of ZP thinning, higher percent of ooplasm reduction and higher percent of PVS increase.

Association between non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection and aerodigestive cancers: A case series highlighting different features, sequence and association

Non-tuberculous mycobacterial lung disease (NTM-LD) is increasingly recognized as an important cause of chronic respiratory infections. Diagnosing NTM infection in patients with a history of cancer can be delayed, or overlooked, due to potential overlapping symptomatology and similarities among radiographic features, including lung masses, cavities, and nodules. This retrospective case series aims to demonstrate the variable association of NTM-LD and aerodigestive cancers and how in some cases the diagnosis of NTM-LD can be delayed in patients with malignancy. Six patients with biopsy proven aerodigestive malignancy (either lung or head & neck cancer) and culture positive NTM infection were identified through a retrospective review of medical records between 1/1/2013 and 9/20/2020. Their demographic characteristics and clinical course are described to help elucidate both similarities and differences in presentation and diagnosis. Awareness of the association of NTM-LD and lung malignancy may help in early identification of these potential comorbidities and hence influence proactive diagnosis and management.

Single- and Multilayered Perovskite Thin Films for Photovoltaic Applications

Organic-inorganic lead halide perovskites materials have emerged as an innovative candidate in the development of optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices, due to their appealing electrical and optical properties. Herein, mix halide single-layer (~95 nm) and multilayer (average layer ~87 nm) CH₃NH₃PbIBr₂ thinfilms were grown by a one-step spin coating method. In this study, both films maintained their perovskite structure along with the appearance of a pseudo-cubic phase of (200) at 30.16°. Single-layer and multilayer CH₃NH₃PbIBr₂ thinfilms displayed leaky ferroelectric behavior, and multilayered thinfilm showed a leakage current of ~5.06 × 10^-6 A and resistivity of ~1.60 × 10⁶ Ω.cm for the applied electric field of 50 kV/cm. However, optical analysis revealed that the absorption peak of multilayered perovskite is sharper than a single layer in the visible region rather than infrared (IR) and near-infrared region (NIR). The band gap of the thinfilms was measured by Tauc plot, giving the values of 2.07 eV and 1.81 eV for single-layer and multilayer thinfilms, respectively. The structural analysis has also been performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Moreover, the fabricated CH₃NH₃PbIBr₂ as an absorber layer for photoelectric cell demonstrated a power conversion efficiency of 7.87% and fill factor of 72%. Reported electrical, optical and photoelectric efficiency-based results suggest that engineered samples are suitable candidates for utilization in optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices.

Spilled gallstone mimicking right middle lobe pulmonary nodule

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard of care for the surgical management of symptomatic gallstone disease. Gallstone spillage at laparoscopic cholecystectomy is common, with a reported incidence of 0.2-20%. In the majority of cases there are no complications associated with this spillage, but a series of studies report patients with complications of free peritoneal gallstones. We present a case of migration of gallstone to the lung resulting in an inflammatory mass in the right middle lobe as a complication of spillage at laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Spilled gallstone mimicking right middle lobe pulmonary nodule

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard of care for the surgical management of symptomatic gallstone disease. Gallstone spillage at laparoscopic cholecystectomy is common, with a reported incidence of 0.2-20%. In the majority of cases there are no complications associated with this spillage, but a series of studies report patients with complications of free peritoneal gallstones. We present a case of migration of gallstone to the lung resulting in an inflammatory mass in the right middle lobe as a complication of spillage at laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Hybrid Nanofluids as Renewable and Sustainable Colloidal Suspensions for Potential Photovoltaic/Thermal and Solar Energy Applications

The comparative utilization of solar thermal or photovoltaic systems has significantly increased to fulfill the requirement of electricity and heat since few decades. These hybrid systems produce both thermal and electrical energy simultaneously. In recent times, increasing interest is being redirected by researchers in exploiting variety of nanoparticles mixed with miscellaneous base fluids (hybrid nanofluid) for these hybrid systems. This new class of colloidal suspensions has many fascinating advantages as compared to conventional types of nanofluids because of their modified and superior rheological and thermophysical properties which makes them appealing for solar energy devices. Here, we have attempted to deliver an extensive overview of the synthetic methodologies of hybrid nanofluids and their potential in PV/T and solar thermal energy systems. A detailed comparison between conventional types of nanofluids and hybrid nanofluids has been carried out to present in-depth understanding of the advantages of the hybrid nanofluids. The documented reports reveal that enhanced thermal properties of hybrid nanofluids promise the increased performance of solar thermal PV/T systems. Additionally, the unique properties such as nanoparticles concentration and type of base fluid, etc. greatly influence the behavior of hybrid nanofluidic systems. Finally, the outlook, suggestions, and challenges for future research directions are discussed.

Nano and micro architectured cues as smart materials to mitigate recalcitrant pharmaceutical pollutants from wastewater

Pharmaceuticals have been recognized for saving billions of lives, but they also appear as a novel group of environmental pollutants. The presence of pharmaceutically active residues in seawater, surface water, wastewater treatment plants, sludges, and soils has been widely reported. Their persistence in the environment for extended durations exerts various adverse consequences, such as gene toxicity, hormonal interference, antibiotic resistance, sex organs imposition, and many others. Various methodologies have been envisioned for their removal from the aqueous media. Different processes have been restricted due to high cost, inefficient removal, generation of toxic materials, and high capital requirement. The employment of nanostructured materials to mitigate pharmaceutical contaminants has been increasing during the last decades. The adsorptive nanomaterials have a high surface area, low cost, eco-friendliness, and high affinity for inorganic and organic molecules. In this review, we have documented the rising concerns of environmental pharmaceutical contamination and their remediation by applications of nanomaterials. Nanomaterials could be a robust candidate for the removal of an array of environmental contaminants in water.

Preparation, Characterization and Dissolution Behaviour of Freeze Dried Complexes of Curcumin-Gamma Cyclodextrin

The aim of the current research was to develop and characterize curcumin-gamma cyclodextrin inclusion complexes in order to enhance solubility and rate of dissolution of poorly soluble curcumin. Based on the stoichiometric ratio of 1:1, the inclusion complexes of curcumin with γ-cyclodextrin were prepared by freeze drying method. The prepared dried and solidified inclusion complexes were characterized with the help of infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffractometry. The comparative evaluation of solubility and rate of dissolution were investigated and compared with pure curcumin. Dissolution study demonstrated only 10% release from pure curcumin at 1 hour as opposed of approximately 72% release form freeze dried curcumin complexes. The freeze dried complexes exhibited almost complete release after 5 hours while only 34% release was observed from the pure curcumin during the same time period. Therefore, the freeze dried complex provided approximately 3 to 7-fold enhancement in the dissolution and release of curcumin over a period of 6 hours of dissolution testing.  The kinetics of the in vitro release behaviors of the curcumin and curcumin complexes were investigated by applying various models such as zero order, first order, Higuchi and Peppas models. The release of the curcumin was observed to follow the first order release kinetics, since the correlation coefficient (R2) for the first order was the highest in comparison to other kinetic models.

Preparation and characterization of a decentralized modular yellow water nutrient recovery system

The peculiarity of human urine as a resource, in terms of ethical and cultural considerations, and human perception, demands the development of a highly decentralized modular system, to enable the feasibility of the emerging concept of nutrient recovery in this regard. Consequently, a modular reactor, with packed bed of granular Gastropod shell (GS) was constructed for nutrient recovery from yellow water and the operational parameters were derived in simulated and pilot studies. Prior to the design of the modular reactor, both the raw and calcined GS were screened in a batch reactor for nutrient fraction recovery (i.e. total phosphorus (TP) and total nitrogen (TN)). The TP recovery was more favorable than the TN, but the TN recovery was the rate determining step. Despite the low TN capture efficiency of the reactor, the hydrolysis of the urea fraction that promotes nitrogen loss from yellow water was greatly impeded. The system showed higher selectivity for the nutrient fraction than the other constituents of the human urine, as manifested in the high residual COD and creatinine values in the treated yellow water. The volume of yellow water treated and the nutrient recovery capacity of the modular reactor were HRT dependent. A diminution in the nutrient recovery efficiency was observed in the pilot study, when compared with the simulated studies of the same HRT.

Unraveling the Crystallization Kinetics of 2D Perovskites with Sandwich-Type Structure for High-Performance Photovoltaics

2D perovskite solar cells with high stability and high efficiency have attracted significant attention. A systematical static and dynamic structure investigation is carried out to show the details of 2D morphology evolution. A dual additive approach is used, where the synergy between an alkali metal cation and a polar solvent leads to high-quality 2D perovskite films with sandwich-type structures and vertical phase segregation. Such novel structure can induce high-quality 2D slab growth and reduce internal and surface defects, resulting in a high device efficiency of 16.48% with enhanced continuous illumination stability and improved moisture (55-60%) and thermal (85 °C) tolerances. Transient absorption spectra reveal the carrier migration from low n to high n species with different kinetics. An [PbI₆ ]^4- octagon coalescence transformation mechanism coupled with metal and organic cations wrapped is proposed. By solvent vapor annealing, a recrystallization and reorientation of the 2D perovskite slabs occurs to form an ideal structure with improved device performance and stability.

Modalities for conversion of waste to energy - Challenges and perspectives

The United Nation is achieving its sustainable development objectives by focusing on the greener technologies for waste to energy (WTE) conversion. This necessitates the exploration of every conceivable sustainable route in different sectors. Among these, sustainable bio-economy, electricity, and waste management are the most dynamic areas. However, till now sustainability judgments for the generation of electricity from waste-to-energy supply chain (WTE-SC) technologies have been restricted in scale with respect to the three-dimensional sustainability structure (social, environmental, and economic). In most of the cases, the assessments were controlled by various environmental factors/indicators, via overlooking the economic and social indicators. In this review, we have tried to summarize a variety of state-of-the-art WTE technologies including biological and thermal treatment, landfill gas utilization and biorefineries technologies etc. These technologies can be implemented by various policy makers and agencies to deal with the communities fear before spreading and executing the relevant rules and regulations. The implementation of these rules and regulations for WTE-SC were scheduled to decide the barriers and challenges from the perspective of finance, institution, technology, and regulation.

Efficacy and safety of intensity-modulated radiotherapy alone versus intensity-modulated radiotherapy plus chemotherapy for treatment of intermediate-risk nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Background

This study directs to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) alone versus IMRT plus chemotherapy in intermediate-risk NPC (stage II and T₃N₀M₀).

Methods

A total of 124 patients with stage II and T₃N₀M₀ NPC were pair-matched (1:1 ratio) to form two groups: an IMRT-alone group and an IMRT/chemotherapy group. Survival outcomes (overall survival [OS], disease–free survival [DFS], locoregional relapse–free survival [LRRFS], distant metastasis–free survival [DMFS]) and treatment-related grade 3–4 acute toxicity events were compared between the groups.

Results

Survival outcomes for patients with stage II and T₃N₀M₀ NPC were quiet comparable between patients treated with IMRT alone versus patients treated with IMRT/chemotherapy: 5-year OS was 91.9% vs. 90.3%, respectively (P = 0.727); DFS was 87.1% vs. 88.7%, respectively (P = 0.821); LRFFS was 96.8% vs. 95.2%, respectively (P = 0.646), and DMFS was 91.9% vs. 91.5%, respectively (P = 0.955). Grade 3 acute toxicities were significantly higher with IMRT/chemotherapy than with IMRT alone: mucositis, 15% vs. 5% (P = 0.004); leukopenia/neutropenia, 8% vs. 1% (P <  0.015); and nausea/vomiting, 22% vs. 3% (P <  0.001).

Conclusion

For intermediate-risk (stage II and T₃N₀M₀) NPC patients, the addition of chemotherapy to IMRT does not appear to provide any survival benefit. Moreover, grade 3 acute toxicities are also more common in patients receiving IMRT plus chemotherapy.

Interfacial and structural modifications in perovskite solar cells

The rapid and continuous progress made in perovskite solar cell (PSC) technology has drawn considerable attention from the photovoltaic research community, and the application of perovskites in other electronic devices (such as photodetectors, light-emitting diodes, and batteries) has become imminent. Because of the diversity in device configurations, optimization of film deposition, and exploration of material systems, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of PSCs has been certified to be as high as 25.2%, making this type of solar cells the fastest advancing technology until now. As demonstrated by researchers worldwide, controlling the morphology and defects in perovskite films is essential for attaining high-performance PSCs. In this regard, interface engineering has proven to be a very efficient way to address these issues, obtaining better charge collection efficiency, and reducing recombination losses. In this review, the interfacial modification between perovskite films and charge-transport layers (CTLs) as well as CTLs and electrodes of PSCs has been widely summarized. Grain boundary (GB) engineering and stress engineering are also included since they are closely related to the improvement in device performance and stability.

Prevalence of non-tuberculous mycobacteria in HIV-infected patients admitted to hospital with pneumonia

<sec id="st1"> <title>BACKGROUND</title> People living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH) may be particularly vulnerable to the consequences of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) given their defective T cell-mediated immunity and high rates of structural lung disease. </sec> <sec id="st2"> <title>OBJECTIVE</title> To determine the prevalence of NTM in PLWH hospitalized with pneumonia and to assess the potential predictors of NTM isolation. </sec> <sec id="st3"> <title>METHODS</title> Secondary data analysis of a prospective cohort study (2007-2011) of early bronchoscopy in PLWH presenting with suspected pneumonia was undertaken. Subjects with any species of NTM, henceforth described as 'NTM of undetermined significance' (NTM-US), isolated from sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), were included in the analysis. Potential predictors were chosen a priori. </sec> <sec id="st4"> <title>RESULTS</title> Among 196 HIV-infected subjects hospitalized with pneumonia, 96 had respiratory samples positive for NTM-US, with 91% of all NTM-US isolated from sputum compared with BALF. The overall prevalence of NTM-US was 49% (96/196). More NTM subjects were smokers (P = 0.08), with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (P = 0.08). Among those with pathogenic NTM, 39% (34/88) would have met American Thoracic Society microbiologic criteria for NTM pulmonary disease (17% of total cohort). </sec> <sec id="st5"> <title>CONCLUSIONS</title> Respiratory cultures, predominantly sputum samples, were positive for NTM-US in 45% of HIV-infected subjects admitted to hospital for pneumonia. Further research is needed to characterize the prevalence of NTM in PLWH and help establish specific diagnostic criteria in this population. </sec>.

Identification of main-effect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for low-temperature stress tolerance germination- and early seedling vigor-related traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

An attempt was made in the current study to identify the main-effect and co-localized quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for germination and early seedling growth traits under low-temperature stress (LTS) conditions in rice. The plant material used in this study was an early backcross population of 230 introgression lines (ILs) in BCIF7 generation derived from the Weed Tolerant Rice-1 (WTR-1) (as the recipient) and Haoannong (HNG) (as the donor). Genetic analyses of LTS tolerance revealed a total of 27 main-effect quantitative trait loci (M-QTLs) mapped on 12 chromosomes. These QTLs explained more than 10% of phenotypic variance (PV), and average PV of 12.71% while employing 704 high-quality SNP markers. Of these 27 QTLs distributed on 12 chromosomes, 11 were associated with low-temperature germination (LTG), nine with low-temperature germination stress index (LTGS), five with root length stress index (RLSI), and two with biomass stress index (BMSI) QTLs, shoot length stress index (SLSI) and root length stress index (RLSI), seven with seed vigor index (SVI), and single QTL with root length (RL). Among them, five significant major QTLs (qLTG(I) 1 , qLTGS(I) 1-2 , qLTG(I) 5 , qLTGS(I) 5 , and qLTG(I) 7 ) mapped on chromosomes 1, 5, and 7 were associated with LTG and LTGS traits and the PV explained ranged from 16 to 23.3%. The genomic regions of these QTLs were co-localized with two to six QTLs. Most of the QTLs were growth stage-specific and found to harbor QTLs governing multiple traits. Eight chromosomes had more than four QTLs and were clustered together and designated as promising LTS tolerance QTLs (qLTTs), as qLTT 1 , qLTT 2 , qLTT 3 , qLTT 5 , qLTT 6 , qLTT 8 , qLTT 9 , and qLTT 11 . A total of 16 putative candidate genes were identified in the major M-QTLs and co-localized QTL regions distributed on different chromosomes. Overall, these significant genomic regions of M-QTLs are responsible for multiple traits and this suggested that these could serve as the best predictors of LTS tolerance at germination and early seedling growth stages. Furthermore, it is necessary to fine-map these regions and to find functional markers for marker-assisted selection in rice breeding programs for cold tolerance.

Aggregation-Induced Multilength Scaled Morphology Enabling 11.76% Efficiency in All-Polymer Solar Cells Using Printing Fabrication

All-polymer solar cells (all-PSCs) exhibit excellent stability and readily tunable ink viscosity, and are therefore especially suitable for printing preparation of large-scale devices. At present, the efficiency of state-of-the-art all-PSCs fabricated by the spin-coating method has exceeded 11%, laying the foundation for the preparation and practical utilization of printed devices. A high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11.76% is achieved based on PTzBI-Si:N2200 all-PSCs processing with 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (MTHF, an environmentally friendly solvent) and preparation of active layers by slot die printing, which is the top efficient for all-PSCs. Conversely, the PCE of devices processed by high-boiling point chlorobenzene is less than 2%. Through the study of film formation kinetics, volatile solvents can freeze the morphology in a short time, and a more rigid conformation with strong intermolecular interaction combined with the solubility limit of PTzBI-Si and N2200 in MTHF results in the formation of a fibril network in the bulk heterojunction. The multilength scaled morphology ensures fast transfer of carriers and facilitates exciton separation, which boosts carrier mobility and current density, thus improving the device performance. These results are of great significance for large-scale printing fabrication of high-efficiency all-PSCs in the future.

B-77 Buddha's Brain: A Systematic Review of Mindfulness-Based Interventions in the Rehabilitation Context

Objective

The current study was intended to provide a rigorous systematic review of the evidence to date regarding the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in persons with neurologic illness/injury, a form of treatment that may be particularly well suited to the rehabilitation context due to its holistic approach.

Data Selection

The search was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews. We included any controlled trials of MBIs conducted in a neurological population, employing the specific practice of mindfulness meditation. A search protocol was created and executed by three of the authors to promote reliability and obtain the initial list of abstracts (n = 35). Two authors independently reviewed and extracted data from the final 30 full-text articles.

Data Synthesis

A majority (83%) of studies used randomized designs, with the most frequent diagnoses of interest being aging/ neurodegenerative diseases (n = 10), followed by MS (n = 6), TBI (n = 5), and ADHD (n = 5). Most trials that assessed psychological variables found significant benefits (n = 24), including variables such as fatigue, self-reported cognitive function, and specific neurological symptoms. Comparatively fewer studies looked at cognitive and/or neural outcomes (n = 18) such as attention or processing speed, although most did tend to find significant benefits in these outcomes as well.

Conclusions

Results of this review indicate promising evidence for the application of MBIs in the rehabilitation context. Further work is needed to determine whether targeting MBIs to certain symptom clusters as opposed to diagnoses would enhance observed clinical benefit.

Theorizing how the brain encodes consciousness based on negentropic entanglement

The physicality of subjectivity is explained through a theoretical conceptualization of guidance waves informing meaning in negentropically entangled non-electrolytic brain regions. Subjectivity manifests its influence at the microscopic scale of matter originating from de Broglie 'hidden' thermodynamics as action of guidance waves. The preconscious experienceability of subjectivity is associated with a nested hierarchy of microprocesses, which are actualized as a continuum of patterns of discrete atomic microfeels (or "qualia"). The mechanism is suggested to be through negentropic entanglement of hierarchical thermodynamic transfer of information as thermo-qubits originating from nonpolarized regions of actin-binding proteinaceous structures of nonsynaptic spines. The resultant continuous stream of intrinsic information entails a negentropic action (or experiential flow of thermo-quantum internal energy that results in a negentropic force) which is encoded through the non-zero real component of the mean approximation of the negentropic force as a 'consciousness code'. Consciousness consisting of two major subprocesses: (1) preconscious experienceability and (2) conscious experience. Both are encapsulated by nonreductive physicalism and panexperiential materialism. The subprocess (1) governing "subjectivity" carries many microprocesses leading to the actualization of discrete atomic microfeels by the 'consciousness code'. These atomic microfeels constitute internal energy that results in the transfer intrinsic information in terms of thermo-qubits. These thermo-qubits are realized as thermal entropy and sensed by subprocess (2) governing "self-awareness" in conscious experience.

Panchromatic Ternary Organic Solar Cells with Porphyrin Dimers and Absorption-Complementary Benzodithiophene-based Small Molecules

Diketopyrrolopyrrole-ethynylene-bridged porphyrin dimers are capped with electron-deficient 3-ethylrhodanine (A₂) via a π-bridge of phenylene ethynylene, affording two new acceptor-donor-acceptor structural porphyrin dimers (DPP-2TTP and DPP-2TP) with strong absorption in ranges of 400-550 nm (Soret bands) and 700-900 nm (Q bands). Their intrinsic absorption deficiency between the Soret and Q bands could be perfectly compensated by a wide-bandgap small molecule DR3TBDTTF (D*) with absorption at 500-700 nm. Impressively, the optimal ternary device based on the blend films of DPP-2TPP, DR3TBDTTF (20 wt %), and PC₇₁BM shows a PCE of 11.15%, whereas the binary devices based on DPP-2TTP/PC₇₁BM and DPP-2TP/PC₇₁BM blend films exhibit PCEs of 9.30 and 8.23%, respectively. The high compatibility of the low bandgap porphyrin dimers with the wide-bandgap small molecule provides a new threesome with PC₇₁BM for highly efficient panchromatic ternary organic solar cells.

Identical and Nonidentical Twins: Risk and Factors Involved in Development of Islet Autoimmunity and Type 1 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

There are variable reports of risk of concordance for progression to islet autoantibodies and type 1 diabetes in identical twins after one twin is diagnosed. We examined development of positive autoantibodies and type 1 diabetes and the effects of genetic factors and common environment on autoantibody positivity in identical twins, nonidentical twins, and full siblings.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Subjects from the TrialNet Pathway to Prevention Study (N = 48,026) were screened from 2004 to 2015 for islet autoantibodies (GAD antibody [GADA], insulinoma-associated antigen 2 [IA-2A], and autoantibodies against insulin [IAA]). Of these subjects, 17,226 (157 identical twins, 283 nonidentical twins, and 16,786 full siblings) were followed for autoantibody positivity or type 1 diabetes for a median of 2.1 years.

RESULTS

At screening, identical twins were more likely to have positive GADA, IA-2A, and IAA than nonidentical twins or full siblings (all P < 0.0001). Younger age, male sex, and genetic factors were significant factors for expression of IA-2A, IAA, one or more positive autoantibodies, and two or more positive autoantibodies (all P ≤ 0.03). Initially autoantibody-positive identical twins had a 69% risk of diabetes by 3 years compared with 1.5% for initially autoantibody-negative identical twins. In nonidentical twins, type 1 diabetes risk by 3 years was 72% for initially multiple autoantibody-positive, 13% for single autoantibody-positive, and 0% for initially autoantibody-negative nonidentical twins. Full siblings had a 3-year type 1 diabetes risk of 47% for multiple autoantibody-positive, 12% for single autoantibody-positive, and 0.5% for initially autoantibody-negative subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk of type 1 diabetes at 3 years is high for initially multiple and single autoantibody-positive identical twins and multiple autoantibody-positive nonidentical twins. Genetic predisposition, age, and male sex are significant risk factors for development of positive autoantibodies in twins.

Identification of a novel locus, BPH38(t), conferring resistance to brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stal.) using early backcross population in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Rice is the most important staple food crop, and it feeds more than half of the world population. Brown planthopper (BPH) is a major insect pest of rice that causes 20-80% yield loss through direct and indirect damage. The identification and use of BPH resistance genes can efficiently manage BPH. A molecular marker-based genetic analysis of BPH resistance was carried out using 101 BC₁F₅ mapping population derived from a cross between a BPH-resistant indica variety Khazar and an elite BPH-susceptible line Huang-Huan-Zhan. The genetic analysis indicated the existence of Mendelian segregation for BPH resistance. A total of 702 high-quality polymorphic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers, genotypic data, and precisely estimated BPH scores were used for molecular mapping, which resulted in the identification of the BPH38(t) locus on the long arm of chromosome 1 between SNP markers 693,369 and id 10,112,165 of 496.2 kb in size with LOD of 20.53 and phenotypic variation explained of 35.91%. A total of 71 candidate genes were predicted in the detected locus. Among these candidate genes, LOC_Os01g37260 was found to belong to the FBXL class of F-box protein possessing the LRR domain, which is reported to be involved in biotic stress resistance. Furthermore, background analysis and phenotypic selection resulted in the identification of introgression lines (ILs) possessing at least 90% recurrent parent genome recovery and showing superior performance for several agro-morphological traits. The BPH resistance locus and ILs identified in the present study will be useful in marker-assisted BPH resistance breeding programs.

Bioinspired Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Membranes with Directional Release of Therapeutic Essential Oils

Here, the morphology of polypore fungi has inspired the fabrication of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membranes with dual porosity by nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS). The fruiting body of such microorganisms is constituted of two distinct regions, finger- and sponge-like structures, which have been successfully mimicked by controlling the coagulation bath temperature during the NIPS process. The use of water at 10 °C as coagulant resulted in membranes with the highest finger-like/sponge-like ratio (53% of the total membrane thickness), while water at 90 °C allowed the formation of macrovoid-free membranes. The microchannels and the asymmetric porosity were used to enhance the oil sorption capacity of the PVDF membranes and to achieve directional release of therapeutic essential oils. These PVDF membranes with easily tuned asymmetric channel-like porosity and controlled pore size are ideal candidates for drug delivery applications.

Multifunction interferometry using the electron mobility visibility and mean free path relationship

A conventional Michelson interferometer is modified and used to form the various types of interferometers. The basic system consists of a conventional Michelson interferometer with silicon-graphene-gold embedded between layers on the ports. When light from the monochromatic source is input into the system via the input port (silicon waveguide), the change in optical path difference (OPD) of light traveling in the stacked layers introduces the change in the optical phase, which affects to the electron mean free path within the gold layer, induces the change in the overall electron mobility can be seen by the interferometer output visibility. Further plasmonic waves are introduced on the graphene thin film and the electron mobility occurred within the gold layer, in which the light-electron energy conversion in terms of the electron mobility can be observed, the gold layer length is 100 nm. The measurement resolution in terms of the OPD of ∼ 50 nm is achieved. In applications, the outputs of the drop port device of the modified Michelson interferometer can be arranged by the different detectors, where the polarized light outputs, the photon outputs, the electron spin outputs can be obtained by the interference fringe visibility, mobility visibility and the spin up-down splitting output energies. The modified Michelson interferometer theory and the detection schemes are given in details.

Nonsynaptic plasticity model of long-term memory engrams

Using steady-state electrical properties of non-ohmic dendrite based on cable theory, we derive electrotonic potentials that do not change over time and are localized in space. We hypothesize that clusters of such stationary, local and permanent pulses are the electrical signatures of enduring memories which are imprinted through nonsynaptic plasticity, encoded through epigenetic mechanisms, and decoded through electrotonic processing. We further hypothesize how retrieval of an engram is made possible by integration of these permanently imprinted standing pulses in a neural circuit through neurotransmission in the extracellular space as part of conscious recall that acts as a guiding template in the reconsolidation of long-term memories through novelty characterized by uncertainty that arises when new fragments of memories reinstate an engram by way of nonsynaptic plasticity that permits its destabilization. Collectively, these findings seem to reinforce this hypothesis that electrotonic processing in non-ohmic dendrites yield insights into permanent electrical signatures that could reflect upon enduring memories as fragments of long-term memory engrams.

Abstract P4-10-11: An active approach to genetic counseling in Trinidadian women with breast cancer

Introduction

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer death in Caribbean women. The prevalence of deleterious mutations in BRCA1/2, PALB2 and RAD51C among unselected BC patients in the Caribbean is 5-25%. We previously reported data on low usage of genetic counseling services by Bahamian women. In order to improve the dissemination of genetic testing results to Caribbean probands and their families we developed a structured approach to genetic test result dissemination and family counseling.

Methods

After approval by the University of Miami IRB and the Ethics Committee of the Ministry of Health of Trinidad & Tobago, we prospectively evaluated the active approach to genetic counseling in 32 BC mutation carriers in Trinidad & Tobago in 2015. The intervention consisted of: 1) initial appointment with referring oncologist for results discussion; 2) review of family tree with proband to identify all relatives at 25% or 50% risk (ARR) who should attend the genetic counseling session; 3) preschedule a counseling appointment for ARR within 2 weeks; 4) written invitation to genetic counseling session; 5) handouts of genetic information given to proband to distribute to family members; 6) offer assistance with contacting family members; 7) free genetic testing to ARR who attended the family counseling session.

Results

Twenty-five carriers (78%) consented to enroll in the study. At initial counseling, probands identified 158 ARR, however full family pedigree review at post-result counseling/consultation identified 225 ARR. 101 ARR (64%) attended the information sessions and 76 participants (75.2%) consented to be tested for BC gene mutations. Genetic sequencing revealed 35 ARR (46%) were carriers of at least one mutation. The most frequent reasons for ARR not attending the meetings were: living abroad (18%), unable to be contacted (17%), refusing to participate (17%), not showing up (17%), probands being estranged from ARR (12%) or being afraid to know the results (7%).

Conclusions

In Trinidad & Tobago, a structured approach to the dissemination of genetic test results leads to a significant improvement in the rate of family participation compared to previous efforts (64% in Trinidad & Tobago vs. 9% in the Bahamas).

Citation Format: George SH, Bravo GL, Sandoval AC, Palacio S, Ali J, Donenberg TR, Akbari MR, Narod S, Hurley J. An active approach to genetic counseling in Trinidadian women with breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-10-11.