bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioluminescence of the tropical Indian Ocean: a multiple‐scale variation
Authors: Piontkovski Sergey A. , Melnik Alexandr V. , Serikova Irina M. , Evstigneev Vladislav P. , Dobretsov Sergey
Published: June 2022

Large‐scale surveys represented by 5800 bathymetric casts in the western Indian Ocean (0–22oN, 54–58oE), elucidated the 10‐fold variation of the bioluminescent potential (BP) in the upper mixed layer, during the winter (north‐east) monsoon season. The mesoscale survey in February 2017 consisted of 26 drift stations (4oN–3oS, 65–68oE) on which 5–10 bathymetric casts were deployed down to 60 m. The maximal BP was associated with the periphery of a cyclonic eddy. The two‐fold to three‐fold variation of BP characterized the spatial heterogeneity modulated by a detected eddy. High‐frequency casts on drift stations resembled the fine‐scale heterogeneity in which the three‐fold variation was observed within the BP maximum at a 37 ± 13 m depth. The latter one was located above the deep chlorophyll maximum at a 80 m depth. A general decline of the BP variance from the large scale through mesoscale to fine scale, fits that of the zooplankton biomass.
Angiogenic and osteogenic effects of flavonoids in bone regeneration
Authors: Shanmugavadivu Abinaya , Balagangadharan Kalimuthu , Selvamurugan Nagarajan
Published: June 2022

Bone is a highly vascularized tissue that relies on a close spatial and temporal interaction between blood vessels and bone cells. As a result, angiogenesis is critical for bone formation and healing. The vascular system supports bone regeneration by delivering oxygen, nutrients, and growth factors, as well as facilitating efficient cell–cell contact. Most clinical applications of engineered bone grafts are hampered by insufficient vascularization after implantation. Over the last decade, a number of flavonoids have been reported to have osteogenic–angiogenic potential in bone regeneration because of their excellent bioactivity, low cost, availability, and minimal in vivo toxicity. During new bone formation, the osteoinductive nature of certain flavonoids is involved in regulating multiple signaling pathways contributing toward the osteogenic–angiogenic coupling. This review briefly outlines the osteogenic–angiogenic potential of those flavonoids and the mechanisms of their action in promoting bone regeneration. However, further studies are needed to investigate their delivery strategies and establish their clinical efficacy.
An updated review of SARS‐CoV‐2 detection methods in the context of a novel coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Huang Zhiwei , Zhu Jiajie , Li Chaonan , Fang Zhongbiao , Chen Keda , Zhang Yanjun
Published: June 2022

The World Health Organization has reported approximately 430 million confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), worldwide, including nearly 6 million deaths, since its initial appearance in China in 2019. While the number of diagnosed cases continues to increase, the need for technologies that can accurately and rapidly detect SARS‐CoV‐2 virus infection at early phases continues to grow, and the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has licensed emergency use authorizations (EUAs) for virtually hundreds of diagnostic tests based on nucleic acid molecules and antigen–antibody serology assays. Among them, the quantitative real‐time reverse transcription PCR (qRT‐PCR) assay is considered the gold standard for early phase virus detection. Unfortunately, qRT‐PCR still suffers from disadvantages such as the complex test process and the occurrence of false negatives; therefore, new nucleic acid detection devices and serological testing technologies are being developed. However, because of the emergence of strongly infectious mutants of the new coronavirus, such as Alpha (B.1.1.7), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529), the need for the specific detection of mutant strains is also increasing. Therefore, this article reviews nucleic acid‐ and antigen–antibody‐based serological assays, and compares the performance of some of the most recent FDA‐approved and literature‐reported assays and associated kits for the specific testing of new coronavirus variants.
Pedagogy of transformation of a random variable, censoring, and truncation of data
Authors: Shankar P. Mohan
Published: June 2022

The author has been incorporating data analytics into the probability course for students pursuing baccalaureate programs in engineering through weekly assignments and end‐of‐the‐term projects. Data analytics makes the probability course much more relevant to the current trends in business, industry, and medicine that rely on data. The discussion related to the coronavirus pandemic about missing and incomplete data, the inability to pinpoint the exact start of the disease, and so forth offered an opportunity to expand activities in data analytics by examining “truncation” and “censoring” of data. In simple terms, truncation implies the exclusion of data (either not collected or ignored) in a certain range. Censoring implies redefining the data in a certain range while keeping the rest of the original data. A demo was created to explore the association of the transformation of random variables (mixed and conditional) to censoring and truncation. The demo utilized the theory of random variables, simulation, and computational techniques to examine and establish the link between the mixed transformation of variables and censoring. A similar link of conditional transformation of variables to truncation was also seen. The demo was used as the basis for a weekly assignment to the students. The analysis and results suggest that it is possible to expand the scope of the course in engineering probability to provide training in contemporary topics in data analytics.
Bacterial Peroxidase on Electrochemically Reduced Graphene Oxide for Highly Sensitive H2O2 Detection
Authors: Bhardwaj Sheetal K. , Knaus Tanja , Garcia Amanda , Yan Ning , Mutti Francesco G.
Published: June 2022

Peroxidase enzymes enable the construction of electrochemical sensors for highly sensitive and selective quantitative detection of various molecules, pathogens and diseases. Herein, we describe the immobilization of a peroxidase from Bacillus s. (BsDyP) on electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) deposited on indium tin oxide (ITO) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) layers. XRD, SEM, AFM, FT‐IR and Raman characterization of the sensor confirmed its structural integrity and a higher enzyme surface occupancy. The BsDyP‐ERGO/ITO/PET electrode performed better than other horseradish peroxidase‐based electrodes, as evinced by an improved electrochemical response in the nanomolar range (linearity 0.05–280 μM of H2O2, LOD 32 nM). The bioelectrode was mechanically robust, active in the 3.5–6 pH range and exhibited no loss of activity upon storage for 8 weeks at 4 °C.
Impact of left ventricular outflow tract calcium on valve geometry in self‐expanding transcatheter aortic‐valve replacement
Authors: Medranda Giorgio A. , Rogers Toby , Fuery Michael , Case Brian C. , Collins Erin C. , Ali Syed W. , Zhang Cheng , Wang John C. , Weissman Gaby , Cohen Jeffrey E. , Shults Christian C. , Satler Lowell F. , Ben‐Dor Itsik , Waksman Ron
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Evaluate transcatheter heart valve (THV) geometry according to left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) calcium degree and its impact on hemodynamics and outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with a contemporary self‐expanding THV.

Background

LVOT calcium remains challenging for contemporary THVs. LVOT calcium location and degree may affect THV deployment and impact flow patterns and shear stress, accelerating THV degeneration.

Methods

EPROMPT (CoreValve Evolut Pro Prospective Registry; NCT03423459) is a prospective, investigator‐initiated, multicenter registry of patients undergoing TAVR using CoreValve Evolut PRO/PRO + THVs. A total of 107 patients were enrolled in EPROMPT's computed tomography (CT) cohort between January 2018 and October 2021. These patients underwent follow‐up CT scan 30 days post‐TAVR. We analyzed THV geometry and its interaction with the aortic root following deployment using 30‐day post‐TAVR CT in patients with none/mild versus moderate/severe LVOT calcium.

Results

Thirty‐day THV inflows were less eccentric in the short axis in patients with none/mild versus moderate/severe LVOT calcium (1.16 ± 0.09 vs. 1.21 ± 0.12; p = 0.007). THV became more circular and was similar between both cohorts at the THV waist (1.08 ± 0.06 vs. 1.09 ± 0.11; p = 0.551), leaflet tips (1.03 ± 0.04 vs. 1.05 ± 0.09; p = 0.299), and THV outflow (1.04 ± 2.2 vs. 1.03 ± 2.7; p = 0.143). Thirty‐day > mild paravalvular leak was low in both cohorts (1.5% vs. 2.4%; p = 0.724); mean gradients were similar (7.7 ± 3.6 vs. 7.7 ± 3.4 mmHg; p = 0.955).

Conclusions

Despite inflow deformities observed in patients with moderate/severe LVOT calcium, Evolut PRO/PRO + conforms to elliptical aortic annuli, maintaining circularity and proper function at the leaflets and outflow, even in patients with moderate/severe LVOT calcium.
Anticoagulation for left ventricular thrombi secondary to COVID—Is 3 months too long?
Authors: Garg Rimmy , Sachdeva Amitoj , Del Cid Fratti Juan , Mortoti Samuel
Published: June 2022

The length of anticoagulation for thrombotic events related to COVID‐19 is unknown. We present a patient with COVID‐19 complicated by a thrombotic anterior STEMI and multiple left ventricular (LV) thrombi that resolved after 8 weeks of anticoagulation. We suggest a shorter length of anticoagulation with COVID‐19‐related LV thrombus.
A case of prenatal diagnosis of 16q24.3 microdeletion KBG syndrome and review of the literature
Authors: Deng Tianqin , Liu Qingzhi , Xie Jiansheng , Li Xuemei , Yao Bing
Published: June 2022

Here we report a case of a 16q24.3 microdeletion KBG syndrome (KBGS) in a fetus. The absence of a well‐defined phenotype poses a challenge for genetic diagnosis. This report demonstrated that the high‐risk chromosome 21 trisomy could be the first manifestation of KBGS, as observed in this case.
Fat necrosis: A neglected side effect of intramuscular injections
Authors: Chaima Kouki , Mariem Amouri , Emna Bahloul , Slim Charfi , Fatma Hammemi , Tahya Boudawara , Hamida Turki
Published: June 2022

Panniculitis has various etiologies. One of the less common causes is trauma and hence traumatic fat necrosis (FN). These soft tissue injuries usually appear on the shins, thighs, breasts, arms, and buttocks. FN is mainly caused by trauma and may be associated with other conditions such as pancreatic disease. FN arising after intramuscular injections is uncommon and usually appears as firm, encapsulated, mobile, nontender, and solitary or multiple subcutaneous nodules. We report an interesting case of FN caused by intramuscular injections of cefazolin and meglumine antimoniate (MA) in a 38‐year‐old female patient. MA is regarded as the first‐line systemic treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). However, these drugs are not devoid of various potentially adverse reactions.
Vascular injury due to a peripherally inserted central catheter in a neonate born during the 24th week of gestation
Authors: Kurimoto Tomonori , Yonishi Ryo , Uehara Hirotaka , Fukuzato Hayato , Seki Satoko , Shimoji Yoshikazu , Nakayama Okitaka , Ohba Chiaki , Nakazato Iwao , Ohshiro Tatsuo
Published: June 2022

We investigated a case of a peripherally inserted central venous catheter associated with iliolumbar venous extravasation in an infant. Hyperosmolar infusion and calcium gluconate caused phlebitis and vascular perforation. Daily monitoring of the catheter length at the insertion site and serial radiography may aid in detecting catheter movement.
Towards Full‐spectrum Photocatalysis: Extending to the Near‐infrared Region
Authors: Li Jiaxuan , Arif Nayab , Lv Tao , Fang Hui , Hu Xuejuan , Zeng Yu‐Jia
Published: June 2022

The ability to use the full solar spectrum energy in photocatalytic processes for environmental remediation and energy production has attracted worldwide attention. Efficient harvesting of near‐infrared (NIR) photons, especially in the wavelength range beyond 800 nm, is one of the main driving forces in photocatalytic research. The design of appropriate photocatalytic systems for wide‐range light‐harvesting from the UV to NIR regions is a promising method of maximizing the efficiency of solar energy utilization. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent progress in full‐solar‐light‐driven photocatalytic systems, including several strategies to harness NIR light and thermal energy. The corresponding photocatalytic mechanisms and design of binary or ternary heterogeneous systems are discussed in detail. Moreover, future perspectives and challenges are presented to inspire the development of further innovations in full‐solar‐light‐driven photocatalysis.
N/O‐co‐doped Carbon Shell Structures Loaded with Iron Phthalocyanine for Oxygen Reduction Catalysis
Authors: Li Xuhui , Zhao Ruixue , Fu Yuanyuan , Xu Dawei , Kang Yunpeng , Li Kai , Li Zhongfeng , Zheng Lirong , Zuo Xia
Published: June 2022

Metal phthalocyanines (MPcs) have highly conjugated π electron systems and metal atoms acting as active centers, and so exhibit excellent electrocatalytic performance during the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, these complexes also tend to undergo aggregation and exhibit poor electrical conductivity and minimal durability, all of which hinder their large‐scale industrial applications. In the present study, iron phthalocyanine (FePc) is applied to hollow carbon shells (HCSs) to generate an ORR catalyst containing single Fe atoms(HCS‐O‐FePc). The HCSs have numerous N/O‐based surface functional groups that promote the formation of Fe−O bonds with the FePc held in an axial coordination position. These axial Fe−O bonds disrupt the electron symmetry in the plane of the FePc molecules, which facilitate electron transfer. 1100HCS‐O‐FePc exhibits an onset potential of 0.98 V (vs RHE), a half‐wave potential of 0.91 V (vs RHE), an electron transfer number of 3.90, and durability better than that of a 20 % commercial Pt/C catalyst. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy demonstrates that the ORR process over this material likely proceeds via a rapid 2+2 electron mechanism. This composite displays excellent oxygen reduction properties and is a promising alternative to Pt‐based ORR catalysts.
Interlayer Engineering of KxMnO2 Enables Superior Alkali Metal Ion Storage for Advanced Hybrid Capacitors
Authors: Chen Lina , Zhang Yamin , Hao Chongyang , Zheng Xiaowen , Sun Qidi , Wei Youri , Li Bohao , Ci Lijie , Wei Jun
Published: June 2022

The lack of ideal cathode materials is a great challenge in the development of hybrid capacitors based on various alkali metal ions. In this work, potassium‐ion pre‐intercalated KxMnO2 nanowires with enlarged interplanar spacing and optimized ion diffusion channels are successfully obtained through a hydrothermal process, and exhibit superior electrochemical property in lithium‐, sodium‐, and potassium‐ion‐based hybrid supercapacitors (HSCs). The potassium‐ion hybrid supercapacitor (KIC) assembled with a KxMnO2 cathode and activated carbon anode delivers a high energy density of 49.2 Wh kg−1, a high power density of 4.7 kW kg−1, and outstanding cycling performance up to 7000 cycles with almost no capacitance decay, which outperforms most of the KICs reported previously. This ion intercalation engineering provides a strategy to design high‐performance cathodes for hybrid capacitors and other battery systems.
Pyrimidoquinazolinophenanthroline Opens Next Chapter in Design of Bridging Ligands for Artificial Photosynthesis**
Authors: Brückmann Jannik , Müller Carolin , Maisuradze Tamar , Mengele Alexander K. , Nauroozi Djawed , Fauth Sven , Gruber Andreas , Gräfe Stefanie , Leopold Kerstin , Kupfer Stephan , Dietzek‐Ivanšić Benjamin , Rau Sven
Published: June 2022

The synthesis and detailed characterization of a new Ru polypyridine complex containing a heteroditopic bridging ligand with previously unexplored metal‐metal distances is presented. Due to the twisted geometry of the novel ligand, the resultant division of the ligand in two distinct subunits leads to steady state as well as excited state properties of the corresponding mononuclear Ru(II) polypyridine complex resembling those of prototype [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (bpy=2,2'‐bipyridine). The localization of the initially optically excited and the nature of the long‐lived excited states on the Ru‐facing ligand spheres is evaluated by resonance Raman and fs‐TA spectroscopy, respectively, and supported by DFT and TDDFT calculations. Coordination of a second metal (Zn or Rh) to the available bis‐pyrimidyl‐like coordination sphere strongly influences the frontier orbitals, apparent by, for example, luminescence quenching. Thus, the new bridging ligand motif offers electronic properties, which can be adjusted by the nature of the second metal center. Using the heterodinuclear Ru−Rh complex, visible light‐driven reduction of NAD+ to NADH was achieved, highlighting the potential of this system for photocatalytic applications.
How Ionization Catalyzes Diels–Alder Reactions
Authors: Vermeeren Pascal , Hamlin Trevor A. , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias
Published: June 2022

Invited for the cover of this issue are Pascal Vermeeren, Trevor A. Hamlin, and F. Matthias Bickelhaupt of the TheoCheM group at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. The cover art depicts how ionizing the dienophile lowers the Diels–Alder reaction barrier between 1,3‐butadiene and acrylaldehyde by reducing the destabilizing steric Pauli repulsion and enhancing the stabilizing orbital interactions. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202200987.
Association of area‐level socioeconomic status and non–small cell lung cancer stage by race/ethnicity and health care–level factors: Analysis of the National Cancer Database
Authors: Gupta Anjali , Omeogu Chioma H. , Islam Jessica Y. , Joshi Ashwini R. , Akinyemiju Tomi F.
Published: June 2022

Background

This study examined whether the association of socioeconomic status (SES) and non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) stage varied by race/ethnicity and health care access measures.

Methods

This study used data from the 2004–2016 National Cancer Database for patients aged 18–89 years who had been diagnosed with Stage 0–IV NSCLC. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for the associations of area‐level SES with an advanced stage at diagnosis via multilevel, multivariable logistic regression. The stage at diagnosis was dichotomized into early (0–II) and advanced (III–IV) stages, and area‐level SES was categorized on the basis of the patient's zip code level: (1) the proportion of adults aged ≥25 years without a high school degree and (2) the median household income. The models were stratified by race/ethnicity (non‐Hispanic [NH] White, NH Black, Hispanic, Asian, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander), insurance status (none, government, and private), and health care facility type (community, comprehensive community, academic/research, and integrated network).

Results

The study population included 1,329,972 patients. Although only 17% of the NH White patients were in the lowest income quartile, 50% of the NH Black patients were in this group. Lower area‐level education and income were associated with higher odds of an advanced‐stage diagnosis (aOR for education, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.10–1.13; aOR for income, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.11–1.14). These associations persisted among NH White, NH Black, Hispanic, and Asian patients; among those with government and private insurance (but not the uninsured); and among those treated at each facility type.

Conclusions

Area‐level income and education are strongly associated with an advanced NSCLC diagnosis regardless of the facility type and among those with government and private insurance.
Development of a Translational Exposure‐Bracketing Approach to Streamline the Development of Hormonal Contraceptive Drug Products
Authors: Cicali Brian , Da Silva Lais , Sarayani Amir , Lingineni Karthik , Pressly Michelle , Kim Soyoung , Wendl Thomas , Hoechel Joachim , Vozmediano Valvanera , Winterstein Almut G. , Brown Joshua D. , Schmidt Stephan , Cristofoletti Rodrigo
Published: June 2022

Worldwide, 922 million women of reproductive age (or their partners) use some sort of contraception to prevent pregnancy. Oral combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) typically utilize a combination of a progestin and an estrogen. CHCs are potentially at risk to metabolic drug–drug interaction (DDI) via CYP3A4, the main enzyme involved in the oxidative metabolism of ethinyl estradiol and most progestins (e.g., levonorgestrel (LNG) and drospirenone (DRSP)). Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a guidance addressing metabolic DDIs in the realm of CHC, establishing an overall class‐based recommendation with respect to avoidance of CYP3A4 induction interactions. Given that different progestins have varying magnitudes of fraction metabolized by CYP3A4 (fmCYP3A4), it would be of clinical benefit to determine if all progestins are at the same risk to CYP3A4‐mediated metabolic DDIs. LNG and DRSP are commonly used progestins that are at the margins of the rifampicin induction effect observed in vivo because they have the relatively lowest and highest fmCYP3A4 among commonly used CHC formulations containing norgestimate, desogestrel, norgestrel, and norethindrone. Therefore, we applied a multi‐pronged strategy (i.e., (i) development of the physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic models; (ii) comparison of the effect of CYP3A inducers and inhibitors on DRSP vs. LNG; and (iii) providing the clinical‐practice context based on real‐world data, to explore the difference in DDI risk for oral CHCs.
Triflic‐Acid‐Catalyzed Friedel‐Crafts Reaction for the Synthesis of Diaryl Sulfones
Authors: Falconnet Alban , Arndt Jan‐Dirk , Hashmi A. Stephen K. , Schaub Thomas
Published: June 2022

The Friedel‐Crafts sulfonylation for the synthesis of diaryl sulfones derivatives was achieved by using triflic acid (TfOH) as the acidic catalyst with aryl sulfonyl chlorides and arenes at elevated temperatures. Different sulfones could be synthesized with this method in good to excellent yield and with high selectivity. In contrast to the previous methodology reported for this sulfonylation, the catalyst and the excess of arene could be easily recovered and re‐used in further batches.
Ruthenium(II)‐Catalyzed C−H/N−H Alkyne Annulation of Nonsymmetric Imidazoles: Mechanistic Insights by Computation and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Machado Luana A. , Paz Esther R. S. , Araujo Maria H. , Almeida Leandro D. , Bozzi Ícaro A. O. , Dias Gleiston G. , Pereira Cynthia L. M. , Pedrosa Leandro F. , Fantuzzi Felipe , Martins Felipe T. , Cury Luiz A. , da Silva Júnior Eufrânio N.
Published: June 2022

Imidazoles constitute an important class of heterocyclic compounds with extensive potential use, from pharmaceuticals to optoelectronics. However, synthetic methodologies capable of producing novel nonsymmetric imidazoles are still scarce. In a combined synthesis, photophysical and computational investigation, we show that ruthenium(II) catalysis enables C−H/N−H alkyne annulation of nonsymmetric imidazoles derived from naturally occuring β‐lapachone and nor‐β‐lapachone. This method provides an efficient and versatile tool for synthesizing fluorescent compounds with a broad application range.
Behavioral, Histological, and Physiological Evaluation of the Effect of Imidacloprid on the Spider Misumenops maculissparsus
Authors: Gabellone Cecilia , Molina Gabriel , Arrighetti Florencia , Laino Aldana , Garcia Carlos Fernando
Published: June 2022

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of the neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid (commercial formulation) on juveniles of the spider Misumenops maculissparsus (Keyserling, 1891). We first analyzed whether spiders recognized the presence of the insecticide on surfaces and in drinking water (in the form of droplets). Next, we investigated if the insecticide generated histologic, physiologic, and/or biochemical alterations. We observed that spiders do not detect the insecticide on a surface (e.g., paper) or in the form of droplets. After the imidacloprid ingestion by droplet intake, most spiders exhibited a paralysis that reverted after 48 h. Consequently, we observed histopathologic damage (i.e., pigment accumulation, necrosis, and cuticle detachment), and an increased catalase (CAT) activity and total-protein concentration in the individuals treated. The activities of glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase, however, did not undergo significant variations. The results obtained emphasize the need to consider different classes of biomarkers, such as CAT and other proteins, to identify and evaluate the histologic, biologic, and biochemical effects of imidacloprid, one of the most widely used insecticides. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2152–2161. © 2022 SETAC
Applicability of correlated digital image correlation and infrared thermography for measuring mesomechanical deformation in foams and auxetics
Authors: Grednev Sergej , Bronder Stefan , Kunz Francesco , Reis Martin , Kirsch Susanne‐Marie , Welsch Felix , Seelecke Stefan , Diebels Stefan , Jung Anne
Published: June 2022

Cellular materials such as metal foams or auxetic metamaterials are interesting microheterogeneous materials used for lightweight construction and as energy absorbers. Their macroscopic behavior is related to their specific mesoscopic deformation by a strong structure‐property‐relationship. Digital image correlation and infrared thermography are two methods to visualize and study the local deformation behavior in materials. The present study deals with the full‐field thermomechanical analysis of the mesomechanical deformation in Ni/PU hybrid foams and Ni/polymer hybrid auxetic structures performing a correlative digital image correlation and infrared thermography. Instead of comparing and correlating only the primary output variables of both methods, strain and temperature, also strain rates and temperature rates occurring during deformation were compared. These allow for a better correlation and more conclusive results than obtained using only the primary output variables.
Climate and anthropogenic drivers of changes in abundance of C4 annuals and perennials in grasslands on the Mongolian Plateau
Authors: Yang Hao , Auerswald Karl , Gong Xiaoying , Schnyder Hans , Bai Yongfei
Published: June 2022

Background

C4 plants have increased substantially during the past several decades in the grasslands of the Mongolian Plateau due to regional warming. Here, we explore how the patterns of abundances of C4 annuals and C4 perennials change over space and time.

Methods

A total of 280 sites with C4 plants were surveyed in four types of grasslands in 9 years. The relative biomasses of C4 plants (PC4), C4 annuals (PA4), and C4 perennials (PP4) were calculated. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the drivers of changes in PA4 and PP4.

Results

At the regional scale, PA4 on average was 11% (±19%, SD) and PP4 was 13% (±19%, SD). Spatially, C4 annuals dominated the C4 communities within an east–west belt region along 44° N and tended to spread toward northern latitudes (about 0.5°) and higher altitudes in the east mountainous areas. The abundance of C4 annuals decreased, while that of C4 perennials increased. The patterns of C4 annuals and C4 perennials were mainly controlled by temperature, growing season precipitation, and dynamics between the two life forms.

Conclusions

C4 annuals exhibited competitive advantages in normal and wet years, while C4 perennials had competitive advantages in dry years. Grazing as a main human disturbance increased C4 annuals, but had no significant effect on C4 perennials.
The prevalence and risk factors of death anxiety and fear of COVID‐19 in an Iranian community: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mani Arash , Fereidooni Reza , Salehi‐Marzijarani Mohammad , Ardekani Ali , Sasannia Sarvin , Habibi Pardis , Zarei Leila , Heydari Seyed Taghi , Lankarani Kamran B.
Published: June 2022

Background and Aims

COVID‐19 has adversely impacted the public's mental health. One of the causes of psychopathology during the present pandemic is death anxiety and fear of COVID‐19. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of death anxiety and fear of COVID‐19 in Shiraz city, south of Iran.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted among 982 participants in Shiraz from October to November 2021. Data were collected using Templer's Death Anxiety Scale and the Fear of COVID‐19 Scale. Trained interviewers collected data throughout different city districts. A data‐driven approach (latent class analysis) was applied to categorize the participants and determine the risk factors.

Results

Among the participants, 507 (51.6%) were female, and 475 (48.4%) were male. The participants’ mean age was 38.26 ± 15.16 years. Based on the analysis, 259 (26.4%), 512 (52.1%), and 211 (21.5%) participants had low, moderate, and severe levels of death anxiety. Also, 393 (40.06%) and 588 (59.94%) of the participants had low and high levels of fear, respectively. Higher death anxiety was significantly associated with being female, having an associate degree, being retired, share of medical expenditure from total expenditure of more than 10%, having a history of hospital admission due to COVID‐19, history of COVID‐19 in relatives, and having fear of COVID‐19. Also, being female, expenses equal to income, history of hospital admission due to COVID‐19, death in relatives, and higher death anxiety were linked to higher levels of fear of COVID‐19.

Conclusions

Death anxiety and fear of COVID‐19 are closely associated with each other and affected by various sociodemographic and economic factors. Given this pandemic's unpredictable nature and chronicity, interventions at the community level to support high‐risk groups are crucial.
Comment on the paper “Entropy generation minimization on electromagnetohydrodynamic radiative Casson nanofluid flow over a melting Riga plate, Adebowale Martins Obalalu, Lawal Lanre Adebayo, Ilhami Colak, Adebayo Olusegun Ajala, Fatai Adisa Wahaab, Heat Transfer 2022;1‐28”
Authors: Pantokratoras Asterios
Published: June 2022

Some errors exist in the above paper.
Platinum sensitivity in patients with IDH1/2 mutated vs wild‐type intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A propensity score‐based study
Authors: Niger Monica , Nichetti Federico , Casadei‐Gardini Andrea , Rizzato Mario Domenico , Pircher Chiara , Bini Marta , Franza Andrea , Rimini Margherita , Burgio Valentina , Sposetti Caterina , Fornaro Lorenzo , Rapposelli Ilario Giovanni , D'Amico Francesco Enrico , Aprile Giuseppe , Vivaldi Caterina , Frassineti Giovanni Luca , Milione Massimo , Leoncini Giuseppe , Cappetta Alessandro , Vasile Enrico , Fassan Matteo , Morano Federica , Perrone Federica , Tamborini Elena , Pruneri Giancarlo , Lonardi Sara , Mazzaferro Vincenzo , Pietrantonio Filippo , Di Bartolomeo Maria , de Braud Filippo
Published: June 2022

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)1/2 mutations are the most frequent druggable alterations in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), reported in ~20% of cases. Preclinical evidence indicates that these mutations are associated with homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), which could be exploited as a target for platinum chemotherapy (ChT) and PARP inhibitors. However, the role of IDH1/2 mutations as surrogate biomarkers for platinum efficacy is unknown. We conducted a multicenter, propensity score‐matched analysis to investigate the impact of IDH1/2 mutations on progression‐free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) in patients with iCCA treated with platinum‐based ChT. An exploratory comparison of complex HRD estimates between IDH1/2 mutated and wild‐type tumors from TCGA was also performed. A total of 120 cases were matched in a 1:1 ratio (60 IDH1/2 mutant and 60 wild‐type). No differences were observed for platinum‐based PFS (7.7 vs 7.3 months, P = .970), DCR (66.1% vs 74.1%, P = .361) and ORR (27.8% vs 25.0%, P = .741). IDH1/2 mutations showed mutual exclusivity with genomic alterations in ATM, BRCA2, MST1R, NF1, FGFR2 and CDKN2A/B losses, respectively, with no clear survival and response differences. Among TCGA tumors, IDH1/2 mutated CCA did not show higher HRD compared to wild‐type cases. IDH1/2 mutations are not associated with increased sensitivity to platinum‐based ChT in iCCA patients. Deeper genomic sequencing is needed to elucidate the HRD phenotype in IDH1/2 mutant iCCA and exploit its therapeutic vulnerabilities.
Nordic adolescents responding to demanding survey scales in boring contexts: Examining straightlining
Authors: Aarø Leif Edvard , Fismen Anne‐Siri , Wold Bente , Skogen Jens Christoffer , Torsheim Torbjørn , Arnarsson Ársæll Már , Lyyra Nelli , Löfstedt Petra , Eriksson Charli
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Straightlining, or identical responses across all items within a multi‐item scale, is often taken as an indication that responses to all items in a questionnaire are of poor quality. The purpose of this study was to examine straightlining on two scales: The Sense of Unity Scale (SUS) and the short version of the Warwick‐Edinburgh Mental Well‐being Scale (SWEMWBS).

Methods

Data stem from the 2017–2018 data collections in four Nordic countries of the Health Behaviour in School‐children study (HBSC) (15‐year‐old students only; 50.9% girls; n = 5928). Data were weighted to adjust for oversampling of Swedish‐speaking Finnish students and to equalize sample size across countries. The main analyses were done with general linear modeling with adjustments for cluster effects (school classes).

Results

The proportion with straightlining on SUS was 22.8%, varying from 5.8% among Swedish girls to 46.4% among Finnish boys. The proportion with straightlining on SWEMWBS was 18.4%, varying from 5.2% among Norwegian girls to 46.0% among Finnish boys. Straightlining on one of the scales correlated with straightlining on the other one. Straightlining tended to inflate Cronbach's α values and reduce number of factors in factor analyses. Associations between the two scales and external variables tended to be lower among straightlining students. Associations between external variables (other than SUS/SWEMWBS) are on average slightly weaker among straightliners. Straightlining students obtained more favorable scores on several resource‐related variables.

Conclusion

Although some problems have been identified, straightlining does not serve well as a general indicator of poor data quality.
Fatty acids of type 2 diabetic serum decrease the stemness properties of human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Fayyazpour Parisa , Alizadeh Effat , Hosseini Vahid , Kalantary‐Charvadeh Ashkan , Niafar Mitra , Sadra Vahideh , Norouzi Zahra , Saebnazar Aysan , Mehdizadeh Amir , Darabi Masoud
Published: June 2022

In type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia and increased serum free fatty acids (FFAs) exacerbate the development of the disease through a negative effect on insulin secretion. Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (AdMSCs) play a key role in regenerative medicine, and these cells can potentially be applied as novel therapeutic resources in the treatment of diabetes. In this study, AdMSCs were treated with diabetic or nondiabetic serum FFAs isolated from women of menopausal age. Serum FFAs were analyzed using gas–liquid chromatography. The expression level of the stemness markers CD49e and CD90 and the Wnt signaling target genes Axin‐2 and c‐Myc were evaluated using real‐time PCR. The proliferation rate and colony formation were also assessed using a BrdU assay and crystal violet staining, respectively. The level of glutathione was assessed using cell fluorescence staining. Compared to nondiabetic serum, diabetic serum contained a higher percentage of oleate (1.5‐fold, p < 0.01). In comparison with nondiabetic FFAs, diabetic FFAs demonstrated decreasing effects on the expression of CD90 (−51%, p < 0.001) and c‐Myc (−48%, p < 0.05), and proliferation rate (−35%, p < 0.001), colony formation capacity (−50%, p < 0.01), and GSH levels (−62%, p < 0.05). The negative effect of the FFAs of diabetic serum on the stemness characteristics may impair the regenerative capabilities of AdMSCs.
Investigating binding mechanism of thymoquinone to human transferrin, targeting Alzheimer's disease therapy
Authors: Xue Bin , DasGupta Debarati , Alam Manzar , Khan Mohd Shahnawaz , Wang Shuo , Shamsi Anas , Islam Asimul , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz
Published: June 2022

Iron deposition in the central nervous system (CNS) is one of the causes of neurodegenerative diseases. Human transferrin (hTf) acts as an iron carrier present in the blood plasma, preventing it from contributing to redox reactions. Plant compounds and their derivatives are frequently being used in preventing or delaying Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thymoquinone (TQ), a natural product has gained popularity because of its broad therapeutic applications. TQ is one of the significant phytoconstituent of Nigella sativa. The binding of TQ to hTf was determined by spectroscopic methods and isothermal titration calorimetry. We have observed that TQ strongly binds to hTf with a binding constant (K) of 0.22 × 106 M−1 and forming a stable complex. In addition, isothermal titration calorimetry revealed the spontaneous binding of TQ with hTf. Molecular docking analysis showed key residues of the hTf that were involved in the binding to TQ. We further performed a 250 ns molecular dynamics simulation which deciphered the dynamics and stability of the hTf‐TQ complex. Structure analysis suggested that the binding of TQ doesn't cause any significant alterations in the hTf structure during the course of simulation and a stable complex is formed. Altogether, we have elucidated the mechanism of binding of TQ with hTf, which can be further implicated in the development of a novel strategy for AD therapy.
Neonatal D‐fenfluramine treatment promotes long‐term behavioral changes in adult mice
Authors: Laureano‐Melo Roberto , Dos‐Santos Raoni Conceição , da Conceição Rodrigo Rodrigues , de Souza Janaina Sena , da Silva Almeida Claudio , Reis Luís Carlos , Marinho Bruno Guimarães , Giannocco Gisele , Ahmed Ragab Gaber , da Silva Côrtes Wellington
Published: June 2022

Serotonin exerts a significant role in the mammalian central nervous system embryogenesis and brain ontogeny. Therefore, we investigate the effect of neonatal treatment of d‐fenfluramine (d‐FEN), a serotonin (5‐HT) releaser, on the behavioral expression of adult male Swiss mice. For this purpose, we divided pregnant female Swiss mice into two groups (n = 6 each and ~35 g). Their offspring were treated with d‐FEN (3 mg/kg, s.c.) from postnatal days (PND) 5 to 20. At PND 21, one male puppy of each litter was euthanized; the midbrain and the hippocampus were dissected for RNA analysis. At PND 70, the male offspring underwent a behavioral assessment in the open field, elevated plus‐maze, light–dark box, tail suspension, and rotarod test. The programmed animals had a decrease in 5HT1a, serotonin transporter (SERT), and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the mesencephalic raphe region. Alternatively, there was a reduction only in the tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH2) and BDNF expression in the hippocampus. In the light–dark box test, offspring of the treated group had higher latency to light and less time on the light side than the control. Also, it was observed less time of immobility in the tail suspension test. We also observed low motor skill learning in the rotarod test. These findings suggest that programming with d‐FEN during the neonatal period alters a mesencephalic and hippocampal serotonergic system, promoting anxiety, antidepressant behavior, low coordination, and motor learning in adults.
Environmental enrichment as a strategy: Attenuates the anxiety and memory impairment in social isolation stress
Authors: Keloglan Musuroglu Seval , Ozturk Duygu Murat , Sahin Leyla , Cevik Ozge Selin , Cevik Kenan
Published: June 2022

Background

Social isolation (SI) early in life produces behavioral and cognitive abnormalities. On the contrary, environmental enrichment (EE) offers beneficial effects on brain plasticity and development. This study was designed to examine how EE affects memory functions, anxiety level, and the expression levels of memory/anxiety‐related genes such as NR2A, NR2B, BDNF, and cFos in the hippocampus of socially isolated rats.

Materials and Methods

Wistar albino male rats (n = 40) were separated into the five groups: Standard cage (SC), SI, EE, SI + SC, and SI + EE group. For each group, eight rats were housed, either grouped or isolated, in a standard or 3‐week EE, respectively. Morris water maze test (MWMT) was used for measuring the learning and memory function. Elevated plus maze (EPM) and open field (OF) were used for the evaluation of anxiety behavior. Blood corticosterone level was evaluated by the ELISA method. The expression levels of genes were measured by the RT‐PCR method.

Results

Results showed that EE increased memory performance in the SI group (p < 0.05). SI caused anxiety while EE improved anxiety behavior (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the groups in the OF test. Corticosterone levels did not change between groups. BDNF expression level was downregulated in EE and SI + SC compared with the SC group (respectively; p = 0.012; p = 0.011). NR2A, NR2B, and cFos expression levels did not change between groups significantly.

Conclusions

SI impaired memory performance while EE has beneficial effects on memory in socially isolated rats. EE alone was insufficient to cause alterations in the memory performance. The therapeutic effects of EE became strengthened while applied together with stress protocol. Together with improving the effectiveness of memory function, EE has the potential to decrease anxiety behavior. EE seemed to be the reason for decreasing in BDNF.
Impact of nitrogen fertilizer timing on nitrate loss and crop production in northwest Iowa
Authors: Waring Emily Rose , Sawyer John , Pederson Carl , Helmers Matt
Published: June 2022

In the U.S. Midwest, nitrate in subsurface tile drainage from corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] systems is detrimental to water quality at local and national scales. The objective of this replicated plot study in northwest Iowa, performed in 2015–2020, was to investigate the influence of nitrogen (N) fertilizer timing on crop production and NO3 load in subsurface (tile) drainage discharge. Four treatments applied to corn included fall anhydrous ammonia with a nitrification inhibitor (F), spring anhydrous ammonia (S), split‐banded urea at planting and mid‐vegetative growth (SS), and no N fertilizer (0N). Across crops and years, NO3–N concentration in subsurface drainage discharge was the same at 11.7 mg L–1 for F and S applied anhydrous ammonia (AA). The NO3–N concentration was statistically lower with SS urea (10 mg L–1) than F and S, and 0N was lower than SS at 8.3 mg L–1. Average annual NO3–N loads were not different between any treatments due to plot variability in drainage discharge. Corn responded to N application, with overall mean yield the same for F, S, and SS. There were no agronomic or water quality benefits for applying AA in spring compared with fall, where the F included a nitrification inhibitor and was applied to cold soils. Split‐applied urea had a small positive water quality impact but no crop yield enhancement. This study shows that there were improvements to NO3–N concentration in subsurface drainage discharge, but more nutrient reduction practices are needed than fertilizer N management alone to reduce nitrate load to surface water systems.
Light edges in 1‐planar graphs
Authors: Liu Juan , Wang Yiqiao , Wang Weifan
Published: June 2022

A graph is 1‐planar if it can be drawn in the plane so that each edge is crossed by at most one other edge. In this paper, we prove that every 1‐planar graph with minimum degree at least 3 contains an edge with such that one of the following holds: (1) and ; (2) and ; (3) and ; (4) and ; (5) . The upper bound on in each of the five items except the second is sharp.
Hamiltonian cycles in 2‐tough 2K2 $2{K}_{2}$‐free graphs
Authors: Ota Katsuhiro , Sanka Masahiro
Published: June 2022

A graph is called a ‐free graph if it does not contain as an induced subgraph. In 2014, Broersma, Patel, and Pyatkin showed that every 25‐tough ‐free graph on at least three vertices is Hamiltonian. Recently, Shan improved this result by showing that 3‐tough is sufficient instead of 25‐tough. In this paper, we show that every 2‐tough ‐free graph on at least three vertices is Hamiltonian, which was conjectured by Gao and Pasechnik.
Covering 3‐uniform hypergraphs by vertex‐disjoint tight paths
Authors: Han Jie
Published: June 2022

For α > 0 and large integer n, let H be an n‐vertex 3‐uniform hypergraph such that every pair of vertices is in at least edges. We show that contains two vertex‐disjoint tight paths whose union covers the vertex set of . The quantity two here is best possible and the degree condition is asymptotically best possible. This result also has an interpretation as the deficiency problems, recently introduced by Nenadov, Sudakov, and Wagner: every such can be made Hamiltonian by adding at most two vertices and all triples intersecting them.
Ontogeny of the nasolacrimal apparatus and nasal sensory systems of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)
Authors: Rehorek Susan J. , Elsey Ruth M. , Smith Timothy V.
Published: June 2022

The nasolacrimal apparatus (NLA) is a feature common to many sauropsid amniotes. It consists of an orbital Harderian gland (HG)whose secretions drain into the nasal cavity, in the vicinity of the vomeronasal organ (VNO), an accessory olfactory organ derived from the olfactory epithelium, and a connecting nasolacrimal duct (NLD). Though not all features are present in all posthatchling sauropsids (i.e., no VNO in crocodilomorphs), it is not clear if this system either never existed or failed to develop during the embryonic stages. The purpose of this study is to histologically describe the ontogeny of the NLA and the main olfactory organ in Alligator mississippiensis. Alligator specimens, from embryonic stage 9 to hatchling, were serially histologically sectioned, stained, photographed, and segmented into different tissues using Abobe Photoshop and then reconstructed using Amira for 3D analysis and quantitative nasal epithelial distribution. Though there was no evidence of a VNO, the rest of the NLA was present. The development of the NLA could be subdivided into four phases: (1) inception of NLD, (2) establishment of orbitonasal connections of NLD, (3) bone development, and (4) nasal cavity growth. Glands mature during this last phase and the nasal region rapidly grows, rotates, and is displaced anteriorly. The gradual proportional increase in nonolfactory epithelial distribution during ontogeny is consistent with the literature. Alligator embryonic nasal and NLD growth differs from that of mammals and squamates. The NLD is connected to the anterior third of the nasal region during its initial attachment, but as anterior nasal growth exceeds posterior growth, it is gradually displaced into the posterior third of the nasal region by hatching. It is unknown whether this is a derived archosaur condition or just another example of the morphological variation seen within sauropsid amniotes.