bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soluble IgE‐binding factors in the serum of food‐allergic patients: Possible pathophysiological role of soluble FcεRI as protective factor
Authors: Steinert Carolin , Moñino‐Romero Sherezade , Butze Monique , Scheffel Jörg , Dölle‐Bierke Sabine , Dobbertin‐Welsch Josefine , Beyer Kirsten , Maurer Marcus , Altrichter Sabine
Published: February 2023

Background

IgE‐mediated food allergy is the result of an aberrant immune response involving the interaction of a food allergen with its specific IgE bound to FcɛRI, the high affinity IgE receptor, on mast cells. Allergen‐specific IgE also binds to soluble binding factors, but, their expression and role in food allergy is not well characterized. Here, we assess the prevalence and relevance of soluble IgE binding factors in food allergy and tolerance.

Methods

We measured serum levels of four IgE binding factors, that is, galectin‐3, galectin‐9, soluble FcɛRI (sFcεRI) and soluble CD23 (sCD23) in 67 adults sensitized to peanut or hazelnut and sFcɛRI in 29 children sensitized to hen's egg. Adults without food allergen sensitization (n = 17) served as healthy controls. We compared serum levels of patients and controls and assessed them, in the former, for links to clinical features including allergy and tolerance.

Results

Serum levels of sFcɛRI and sCD23, but not galectin‐3 and galectin‐9, significantly differ in food‐sensitized patients as compared to healthy controls. A subgroup (28%) of peanut and hazelnut allergic patients had elevated sFcεRI levels, that were associated with higher total and specific IgE levels. Furthermore, sFcεRI levels were significantly higher in tolerant subjects compared to allergics. Among hazelnut allergic patients, those with high sFcεRI levels tolerated the highest protein amounts in the oral food challenge.

Conclusion

sFcɛRI but not sCD23, galectin‐3 and galectin‐9 might play a role in the pathophysiology of food allergy. Its functional role or use as biomarker should be assessed in further studies.
COVID‐19 Vaccination and the Incidence of De Novo or Recurrent Rheumatoid Arthritis: A French and International (VigiBase) Signal Detection Study
Authors: Prontskus Viktoryia , Fresse Audrey , Yelehe‐Okouma Mélissa , Facile Anthony , Pietri Tessa , Simon Corinne , Le Souder Cosette , Beurrier Mathilde , Gillet Pierre ,   French network of Regional Pharmacovigilance Centres
Published: February 2023

COVID‐19 vaccination is critical in frequently immunocompromised patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, there is a question about the risk of RA flares following vaccination. Our study intended to find out about cases of new RA or flare‐ups in people who already had RA that were reported in French and international pharmacovigilance databases after COVID‐19 vaccination. We performed a “case–noncase” method in the international pharmacovigilance database VigiBase to identify the risk of RA following COVID‐19 vaccination compared with other nonlive vaccines. Using the French Pharmacovigilance Database (FPVD), a descriptive analysis was carried out for RA cases after COVID‐19 immunization and a multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to compare variables in the new‐onset vs. flare‐up groups. In 2021, 2,387 cases of RA were reported from 2,817,902 adverse drug reactions associated with COVID‐19 vaccines recorded in VigiBase. The reporting odds ratio of RA onset with COVID‐19 vaccines compared with the other nonlive vaccines was 0.66 (P < 0.0001). The FPVD reported 161 cases of RA with COVID‐19 vaccines, including 77 new‐onset RA and 84 cases of RA flare‐up. In 88 cases (84.7%), RA occurred after the first dose. The mean time between vaccination and disease onset was 14 ± 21 days, and the delay was significantly shorter in the flare‐up group. We do not show a higher risk of RA after COVID‐19 vaccination compared with other nonlive vaccines in adults. De novo RA was more likely to happen quickly, be more severe, and have a worse outcome than flares in patients with RA.
Circularly Polarized Luminescent Bis(Boron Difluoride) Complexes with Chiral Schiff‐base Ligands
Authors: Ikeshita Masahiro , Oka Taichi , Kitahara Maho , Imai Yoshitane , Tsuno Takashi
Published: February 2023

The Front Cover image is provided by the Ikeshita and Tsuno group at Nihon University (Japan), together with the Imai group at Kindai University (Japan). The image depicts the three chiral bis(boron difluoride) complexes whose circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) properties were studied in this work. The three complexes reflect off the sea surface, reminiscent of the mirror image CPL spectra obtained in the study, and similar to the reflection of the three islands in the background image. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/cptc.202200318.
Evaluation of antibacterial effects of different intracanal medicaments on Enterococcus faecalis in primary teeth: An in vitro study
Authors: Shamma Bushra Munzer , Kurdi Saleh Al , Rajab Anas , Arrag Ettihad Abo
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Successful endodontic therapy is based on the reduction of infecting bacteria by cleaning, shaping, and disinfecting of the root canal system, thus the use of intracanal dressing is necessary for optimal success of root canal treatment. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of chitosan and propolis as intracanal medicaments against Enterococcus faecalis compared to calcium hydroxide in primary root canals.

Material and Methods

Ninety‐six extracted primary second molars were collected. Teeth preparation was completed to size 30 K‐file. They were randomly divided into four groups; (A): chitosan, (B): propolis, (C): calcium hydroxide, and (D): control group (saline). The tooth specimens were inoculated with E. faecalis. Then, tested materials were applied for all groups in accordance to the groups each tooth belonged to. Following this, the bacterial colonies were counted after 24 h, 72 h, and 1 week of applying dressing materials and incubation. Finally, one–way analysis of variance and Fisher's least significant difference tests were used for statistical comparisons between the groups at a significance level of .05.

Results

No statistically significant difference was found between groups A, B, and C for both 24 h and a week (p ≥ .05). Yet, a statistical difference between groups A, B, C, and D after 72 h and 1 week were seen (p ≤ .05).

Conclusions

Chitosan and propolis medicaments were as effective as calcium hydroxide against E. faecalis in primary root canal treatment and might be considered as an alternative dressing material between treatment sessions.
Rational Design of Molybdenum‐Doped Cobalt Nitride Nanowire Arrays for Robust Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Huang Weixia , Tong Yun , Feng Dongmei , Guo Zhendong , Ye Runze , Chen Pengzuo
Published: February 2023

Rational design of efficient electrocatalysts is highly imperative but still a challenge for overall water splitting. Herein, we construct self‐supported Co3N nanowire arrays with different Mo doping contents by hydrothermal and nitridation processes that serve as robust electrocatalysts for overall water splitting. The optimal Co3N−Mo0.2/Ni foam (NF) electrode delivers a low overpotential of 97 mV at a current density of 50 mA cm−2 as well as a highly stable hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations prove that Mo doping can effectively modulate the electronic structure and surface adsorption energies of H2O and hydrogen intermediates on Co3N, leading to improved reaction kinetics with high catalytic activity. Further modification with FeOOH species on the surface of Co3N−Mo0.2/NF improves the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance benefiting from the synergistic effect of dual Co−Fe catalytic centers. As a result, the Co3N−Mo0.2@FeOOH/NF catalysts display outstanding OER catalytic performance with a low overpotential of 250 mV at 50 1 mA cm−2. The constructed Co3N−Mo0.2/NF||Co3N−Mo0.2@FeOOH/NF water electrolyzer exhibits a small voltage of 1.48 V to achieve a high current density of 50 mA cm−2 at 80 °C, which is superior to most of the reported electrocatalysts. This work provides a new approach to developing robust electrode materials for electrocatalytic water splitting.
Theoretical analysis of electrostatic energy harvester configured as Bennet's doubler based on Q‐V cycles
Authors: Duc Truong Binh , Phu Le Cuong
Published: February 2023

We present a theoretical analysis of a MEMS electrostatic energy harvester configured as Bennet's doubler. The steady‐state operation of the circuit can be approximated by a rectangular Q‐V cycle in the ideal case or by a trapezoid diagram when the electrical losses are taken into account. A similarity between the voltage doubler and charge‐pump circuit is highlighted. The analytical solution of the saturation voltage is derived, providing a more insightful comprehension of the system performance and the influence of its parameters. The results obtained from studying the Q‐V diagram coincide with those of circuit simulations for both cases when using (i) a mathematically idealized diode or (ii) a realistic diode model that includes the electrical losses. A configuration employing a simple switch connected in series with one of the three diodes that can further increase the saturation voltage is investigated, providing an efficient alternative for boosting the output voltage of an electrostatic energy harvester.
A novel capacitor‐voltage reduced bidirectional PWM DC‐DC buck‐boost converter for renewable energy battery charge system
Authors: Sahin Yakup , Ting Naim Suleyman , Yesilyurt Huseyin
Published: February 2023

A novel capacitor‐voltage reduced bidirectional (CVRB) PWM DC‐DC buck‐boost converter is presented in this study. Compared to the conventional bidirectional buck‐boost converter, the proposed converter has a lower voltage rating filter capacitor. Accordingly, the given converter has a lower cost and higher power density than the conventional buck‐boost converter. Additionally, the proposed converter is more efficient due to the direct power transfer feature. Besides, the semiconductor switches have no extra voltage/current stress. The theoretical analysis of the converter is made, and its mathematical analysis is presented. The novel converter is experimentally operated in both the buck and boost modes. The experimental waveforms are shown for both operations. The proposed converter is operated in 100 W output power and 20 kHz switching frequency conditions. The efficiency of the proposed converter is 95.6% for the boost mode operation and 95.1% for the buck mode operation at the nominal output power.
On the Klimontovich description of complex (dusty) plasmas
Authors: Tolias Panagiotis
Published: February 2023

The numerous idealizations that are involved in the exact microscopic statistical description of complex (dusty) plasmas are discussed in detail. The two prevailing approaches in the Klimontovich description of dusty plasmas are reviewed in a pedagogical manner. The continuous phase space approximation is introduced, within which the more rigorous treatment should collapse to the more heuristic treatment. The plasma Klimontovich equations are shown to be identical, but there are marked differences in the dust Klimontovich equations whose origin is analysed in depth.
Energy‐based devices for melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation
Authors: Reynal Shane , Martin Elise , Munavalli Girish
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are conditions commonly encountered by dermatologists, and they are often distressing to patients. While PIH can improve with time once the inflammatory process is controlled, melasma is a condition that often requires prolonged treatment and maintenance. There are numerous treatment options, ranging from UV protection and topical therapies (such as hydroquinone), to more procedural‐based options (chemical peels, micro‐needling, and energy‐based devices).

Objective

This review will focus on the treatment of melasma and PIH with various energy‐based therapies, including laser devices, intense pulsed light (IPL), high‐frequency ultrasound, and radiofrequency devices.

Methods

References were collected by using Pubmed with search terms of “laser”, “melasma”, “post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation”, and “energy‐based devices.”

Findings

Lasers and IPL target pigment in the epidermis and dermis by using the appropriate wavelengths and principles such as thermal relaxation time and photoacoustic damage. Other lasers, such as pulsed‐dye laser (PDL), target the vascular component of melasma. Used alone or in combination with topical treatments, these devices provide improvement in melasma and PIH. In addition, some authors have studied the use of these devices, such as fractionated lasers, in device‐assisted drug delivery of topical therapies.

Conclusion

While there is a benefit to the use of these devices, this change is usually temporary and balanced against the side effects of dyspigmentation and scarring. Therefore, these treatments are best used in combination, with a maintenance program that employs both topical therapies, procedures, and energy‐based devices.
The population genetics of speciation by cascade reinforcement
Authors: Anderson Carlie B. , Ospina Oscar , Beerli Peter , Lemmon Alan R. , Banker Sarah E. , Hassinger Alyssa Bigelow , Dye Mysia , Kortyna Michelle L. , Lemmon Emily Moriarty
Published: February 2023

Species interactions drive diverse evolutionary outcomes. Speciation by cascade reinforcement represents one example of how species interactions can contribute to the proliferation of species. This process occurs when the divergence of mating traits in response to selection against interspecific hybridization incidentally leads to reproductive isolation among populations of the same species. Here, we investigated the population genetic outcomes of cascade reinforcement in North American chorus frogs (Hylidae:Pseudacris). Specifically, we estimated the frequency of hybridization among three taxa, assessed genetic structure within the focal species,P.feriarum, and ascertained the directionality of gene flow withinP.feriarumacross replicated contact zones via coalescent modeling. Through field observations and preliminary experimental crosses, we assessed whether hybridization is possible under natural and laboratory conditions. We found that hybridization occurs amongP.feriarumand two conspecifics at a low rate in multiple contact zones, and that gene flow within the former species is unidirectional from allopatry into sympatry with these other species in three of four contact zones studied. We found evidence of substantial genetic structuring withinP.feriarumincluding a divergent western allopatric cluster, a behaviorally‐distinct sympatric South Carolina cluster, and several genetically‐overlapping clusters from the remainder of the distribution. Furthermore, we found sub‐structuring between reinforced and nonreinforced populations in the two most intensely‐sampled contact zones. Our literature review indicated thatP.feriarumhybridizes with at least five heterospecifics at the periphery of its range providing a mechanism for further intraspecific diversification. This work strengthens the evidence for cascade reinforcement in this clade, revealing the geographic and genetic landscape upon which this process can contribute to the proliferation of species.
A Conceptual Catalytic Receiver Reactor for Solar Thermal Sulfuric Acid Decomposition
Authors: Tripathi Vibhav M. , Banerjee Atindra Mohan , Nadar Ashish , Pai Mrinal R. , Tripathi Arvind K.
Published: February 2023

The highest‐temperature step in iodine–sulfur and hybrid–sulfur thermochemical cycles for hydrogen generation is the sulfuric acid decomposition reaction. To efficiently utilize solar energy directly to operate this step, the development of a catalytic solar receiver reactor is essential. A cavity‐type reactor coupled to a solar dish and a numerical analysis of the reactor predicting the reaction conversion as a function of the solar absorption coefficient is presented in this study. The catalytic receiver reactor consists of a double‐walled quartz cylindrical tube to form the cavity and a flat quartz plate window for entry of the concentrated solar radiation. Two catalysts, Fe1.8Cr0.2O3 and Fe2O3/SiO2, are tested in the solar catalytic receiver reactor and SO2 yields of ≈40% and 38% are observed, respectively. Numerical analysis of the reactor is performed and a reaction conversion–absorption coefficient correlation is established. For the catalytic packed bed assuming absorption coefficient of 0.65, a steady‐state temperature of 1212 K is achieved, accomplishing an approximate theoretical efficiency of ≈56%. The numerical analysis suggests that by utilizing a material of construction with high absorption coefficient, significantly enhanced sulfuric acid decomposition can be achieved by the cavity‐type solar receiver reactor.
Densely Packed Fiber Electrodes Composed of Liquid Crystalline MXenes for High‐Areal‐Density Supercapacitors
Authors: Kim Joonhui , Kim Seulgi , Yuk Seoyeon , Hwang Hyewon , Song Sung Ho , Byun Segi , Lee Dongju
Published: February 2023

Because electrode structure is a crucial determinant of supercapacitor performance, there are multiple studies of supercapacitor electrodes with various structures. Here, experimental observations of the diameter‐dependent supercapacitor performance of a liquid crystalline (LC)‐assisted MXene fiber‐based electrode produced through a wet‐spinning process is reported. It is shown that Ti3C2Tx nanosheets are highly dispersed in water and do not form aggregates or undergo phase separation. MXene dispersion exhibits the typical shear thinning behavior of liquid crystals above the critical mass fraction. Various MXene fibers derived from needles of different diameters can be produced using one method. LC‐assisted MXene fibers are characterized by a high electrical conductivity of up to 2012.27 S cm−1. Furthermore, the optimized MXene fiber‐based device has an areal capacitance of up to ≈6.82 F cm−2, indicating the utility of LC‐assisted MXene fibers in fiber‐shaped supercapacitor devices. The synthetic method has considerable advantages for applications in high‐performance supercapacitors with both stable device operation and high areal capacitance.
Flexible Thermoelectric Generator from Bulk Graphite and Bismuth Traces on Emery Paper
Authors: Mondal Bhargab P. , Ranjan Priya , Sarkar Gourab , Datta Anuja
Published: February 2023

Flexible thermoelectrics (TEs) involving simplified processeability are attractive, with limited choice of materials and low endurance, remaining as major challenges. Herein, an economic emery paper‐based thermoelectric generator (PTEG) from graphite as p‐type leg and bismuth as n‐type leg is introduced, prepared by simple bulk tracing. Tracing provides a feasible approach to modulate the TE properties, as supported by finite‐element analysis. From individual bismuth trace a power factor of 5.85 μW m−1 K−2≈100 °C (2.09 μWm−1 K−2at room temperature (RT)) and for graphite a power factor 7.7 μW m−1 K−2at ≈100 °C (≈5.1 μW m−1 K−2at RT) is obtained. A six‐pair p–n module‐integrated PTEG drives an open‐circuit voltage of 35.8 mV producing an output power of 14.6 nW whereas from a 60‐pair PTEG, voltage ≈348 mV with ≈137.5 nW output power is produced for ΔT ≈ 70 K. The scalability of the fabricated PTEGs is understood from Seebeck voltage being directly proportional to the number of p–n modules and is further tested for harvesting waste heat from electronics. This facile approach may be extended to other organic and inorganic TE materials, contributing to the research in self‐powered heat sensors, wearables, and as thermal harvesters in IoT equipment.
A Theoretical Study to Investigate the Impact of Bilayer Interfacial Modification in Perovskite Solar Cell
Authors: Bansal Nitin Kumar , Porwal Shivam , Dixit Himanshu , Kumar Dinesh , Singh Trilok
Published: February 2023

The interfacial defects or imperfections in the multilayer perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are detrimental for efficient and stable devices. To produce highly efficient and stable PSCs, a bilayer between the interfaces of electron‐transport material/perovskite and perovskite/hole‐transport material can be useful for suppressing recombinations at these interfaces. To passivate the interfacial defects at the perovskite/SnO2and perovskite/Spiro‐OMeTAD for three absorber materials (CsPbI3, FAPbI3,and Cs0.05(FA0.83MA0.17)0.95Pb(I0.83Br0.17)3), a thin layer of WO3and poly‐bathocuproine interfacial layer is explored using solar cell capacitance simulation in 1D. The optimized device photovoltaic performances significantly improve using bilayers. The power conversion efficiency for the FAPbI3‐based PSCs in bilayer configuration is more than 12% as compared to pristine, whereas open‐circuit voltage is improved by over 13%. The enhancement in device performance is attributed to the reduction of interfacial defects at both the electron transport layer/perovskite and perovskite/hole transport layer interfaces. The proposed interface modification strategy provides a novel approach for fabricating efficient perovskite devices.
Shedding Light on the Moisture Stability of Halide Perovskite Thin Films
Authors: Sun Kun , Müller-Buschbaum Peter
Published: February 2023

To date, remarkable progress has been achieved in the power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Nevertheless, the instability and degradation of PSCs under external stimuli still shadow the prospectus of their commercialization. As a notorious culprit deteriorating the stability of PSCs, moisture‐induced degradation is thereby an important aspect. Herein, a comprehensive review of moisture effects on the halide perovskite film, in particular the moisture‐induced degradation mechanism and methods toward enhancing the stability, is discussed. In detail, the benefits for perovskite films having a certain amount of water incorporation are elucidated, and the underlying moisture‐induced structural degradation and decomposition process of perovskites are summarized. Light is also shed on the methods to enhance the moisture stability of perovskites, particularly a 3D/2D heterostructure. Thereby, this review will enlighten the readers of understanding moisture‐induced degradation and the development of stable perovskites.
The association between marital quality and diabetes mellitus: A systematic review
Authors: Rastkar Mohsen , Jalalifar Erfan
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims

Marital relationship and its quality are among the major psychological factors affecting the multiple aspects of a person's health status. Chronic diseases are also among the factors that affect various aspects of the lives of millions of people including their marital quality status. One of the most important underlying chronic diseases is diabetes. Since the correlation between diabetes mellitus and marital quality has been neglected, this systematic review, as the first one, aims to investigate the association between marital quality and diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted among three databases (Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science) until September 2021, which resulted in 189 articles. After assessing the studies based on the inclusion criteria, 14 studies were included.

Results

The included studies were divided into two general groups. The first group consisted of 3 articles examining the effect of factors related to diabetes on marital quality, and the second group included 11 articles studying the effect of marital quality on diabetes and its factors. In general, the articles investigating the impact of diabetes‐related factors on marital quality showed that diabetes has negative impacts on levels of marital quality. Also, the articles investigating the impact of marital quality on diabetes‐related factors, showed that higher marital quality is associated with a lower risk of developing diabetes, a better quality of life in patients with diabetes, and better adherence to diabetes care regimen. The results regarding diabetes management were conflicting. Gender was mentioned as an important modulator in some of the investigated relationships.

Conclusion

Marital quality remarkably influences diabetes‐related factors and is itself affected by the condition resulting from diabetes in individuals with diabetes mellitus. However, further studies are required due to the limited number of studies investigating this correlation.
Comprehensive medication management: Review and recommendations for quality measures
Authors: Haas Curtis E. , Kliethermes Mary Ann , Armistead Lori T. , Beavers Craig , Schumacher Christie , Smith Lisa , Armitstead John A. , Emmons Roshni P. , Darakjian Lucy , Edwards Krystal L. , Barr Michael ,   the Get the Medications Right Institute
Published: February 2023

Comprehensive medication management (CMM) provided by a clinical pharmacist can improve the quality of care and reduce health care costs through the optimization of medication use and a significant reduction in medication‐related problems. As demonstrated by multiple research studies and detailed in published use cases, CMM should be an essential practice for improving population health. This narrative review discusses the limitations of the current evidence and recommends structure, process, and outcome measures to ensure that the key elements of CMM that drive the observed benefits are implemented with fidelity to address the goals of the quadruple aim. The proposed outcome measures are further sub‐classified into economic, clinical, and humanistic categories. Several medication‐related measures are recommended to help define the importance and value of CMM as a key component of population health management.
Changes in Chinese adolescent college students' psychological security during 2004–2020: A cross‐temporal meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Heyun , Zhao Huanhuan
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Psychological security is the outcome of interaction between individuals and society, and it is an important indicator reflecting adolescent mental health and self‐growth. Previous studies have paid more attention to external security, but less attention to individual's internal psychological security. In addition, few previous studies have examined the changes of psychological security over time and the influence of socio‐cultural environmental factors on psychological security.

Methods

A cross‐temporal meta‐analysis was performed using papers that measured the psychological security level of Chinese adolescent college students between 2004 and 2020. Moreover, a time‐lag analysis was conducted to define whether the macro‐social indicators can explain the changes in Chinese adolescent college students' psychological security.

Results

(1) A total of 85 papers was included in the final sample (included 48,817 Chinese adolescent college students); (2) the scores of psychological security and its two sub‐dimensions were significantly negatively correlated with the year, indicating that Chinese college students' psychological security declined significantly over time; (3) seven macro social indicators from the socioeconomic environmental, social connectedness and overall social threats can predict the changes in college students' psychological security; (4) the psychological security of male and female college students decreased over time, but the gender difference was insignificant.

Conclusions

Evidently, social changes play an important role in predicting changes in Chinese college students' psychological security. The results can provide a research basis for the mental health education of adolescent college students, and also provide an explanation perspective for the increasingly serious “involution” phenomenon among Chinese college students.
The effect of parental alcohol use on alcohol use disorder in young adulthood: Exploring the mediating roles of adolescent alcohol expectancies and consumption
Authors: Stephenson Mallory , Heron Jon , Bountress Kaitlin , Hickman Matthew , Kendler Kenneth S. , Edwards Alexis C.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Parental alcohol use and problems are risk factors for alcohol use disorder (AUD), and these effects may be mediated by adolescent alcohol expectancies and consumption. In the present study, we tested the direct effects of mothers' and fathers' alcohol consumption on young adult AUD, as well as the indirect effects through adolescent maximum alcohol use, alcohol consumption, and alcohol expectancies.

Methods

Participants were 5160 individuals (49.1% female) and their biological parents from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, a cohort study of children born in southwestern England during 1991 and 1992. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test associations of mothers' and fathers' alcohol use (assessed when children were 12 years old) with age 24 AUD. Potential mediator variables included the maximum number of alcoholic drinks consumed within a 24‐h period by age 13.5 and alcohol expectancies and alcohol consumption at ages 17 and 20.

Results

Higher maternal and paternal alcohol use were associated with higher levels of alcohol consumption at age 17. Greater alcohol consumption, in turn, was related to a more severe presentation of AUD. The overall indirect effects of mothers' (b = 0.033, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.006, 0.059) and fathers' drinking (b = 0.041, 95% CI = 0.018, 0.064) on AUD were modest but significant, and were primarily comprised of adolescent alcohol consumption rather than alcohol expectancies.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the importance of both mothers' and fathers' drinking for the development of alcohol use and problems across adolescence and young adulthood.
Positive effect of acellular amniotic membrane dressing with immobilized growth factors in skin wound healing
Authors: Laleh Mahsa , Tahernejad Mahrokh , Bonakdar Shahin , Asefnejad Azadeh , Golkar Majid , Kazemi‐Lomedasht Fatemeh , Habibi‐Anbouhi Mahdi
Published: February 2023

The human amniotic membrane dressing has been shown to accelerate the wound healing process in the clinic. In this study, heparin was conjugated to a human Acellular Amniotic Membrane (hAAM) to provide affinity binding sites for immobilizing growth factors. To study the acceleration of the wound healing process, we bound epidermal growth factor and fibroblast growth factor 1 to heparinized hAAMs (GF‐Hep‐hAAMs). The heparinized hAAMs (Hep‐hAAMs) were characterized by toluidine blue staining and infrared spectroscopy. The quality control of hAAM was performed by hematoxylin staining, swelling capacity test and biomechanical evaluation. The cytotoxicity, adhesion, and migration in vitro assays of GF‐Hep‐hAAMs on L‐929 fibroblast cells were also studied by MTT assay, scanning electron microscopy, and scratch assay, respectively. Finally, in vivo skin wound healing study was performed to investigate the wound closure rate, re‐epithelization, collagen deposition, and formation of new blood vessels. The results showed that GF‐Hep‐hAAMs enhance the rate of wound closure and epidermal regeneration in BALB/c mice. In conclusion, GF‐Hep‐hAAMs could accelerate the wound healing process, significantly in the first week.
Molecular mechanisms of miR‐1236 in the assessment of tumor lymphangiogenesis in human ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Khademi Mahsa , Babaei Zeinab , Ghorbanhosseini Seyedeh Sara , Emami Razavi Amirnader , Aghaei Mahmoud
Published: February 2023

Background

Tumor lymphangiogenesis is a critical component in the progression of cancers and specific microRNAs have been reported to be implicated in this process. Recent studies revealed the involvement of miR‐1236 in lymphangiogenic signaling by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR3). However, the prognostic importance of miR‐1236 and its clinical relevance for lymphangiogenesis in ovarian cancer (OC) remains unclear.

Methods

The study included 52 ovarian tumors and 28 normal ovarian tissues. Quantitative real‐time PCR was utilized to analyze the VEGFR3, VEGF‐C, LYVE‐1 and PROX1 mRNA expression as well as miR‐1236. VEGFR3 protein expression was measured by immunohistochemistry staining. Immunohistochemistry for the podoplanin marker (D2‐40) was performed to measure lymphatic vessel density (LVD). In addition, diagnostic evaluation based on the receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed. The influence of miR‐1236 on overall survival was evaluated by Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Here, we show that miR‐1236 expression was significantly decreased in ovarian tumors compared with control tissues (p < 0.001) and correlated with advanced clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis and patient survival (All P < 0.05). Moreover, in ovarian tumors, LVD as well as the gene expression of VEGFR3, VEGF‐C and LYVE‐1, but not PROX1, were found to be remarkably higher compared with control tissues. We also detected a more robust positive staining for VEGFR3 in OC tissues than in control tissues. Furthermore, our results demonstrated an inverse association of miR‐1236 expression with LVD, VEGFR3, LYVE‐1 and PROX1 expression in OC tissues. The ROC curve analysis indicated that miR‐1236 expression has the potential to be used as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in OC. Survival analysis further verified a lowered overall survival rate in patients with low miR‐1236 expression than in those with high expression.

Conclusions

Our results provide evidence for the translational involvement of miR‐1236 in the lymphangiogenesis of OC by regulating lymphangiogenesis‐related factors and support the clinical importance of miR‐1236 as a new diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for OC.
Performance analysis of GaN‐FINFET for RFIC application with respect to different FinWidth's
Authors: Reddy M. Nomitha , Panda Deepak Kumar
Published: February 2023

GaN has become a prevailing semiconductor in case of power and RF applications. The higher ranking material parameters of GaN, like wider band‐gap, the higher breakdown electric field as well as higher electron velocity when compared to materials like Si, SiC, GaAs etc; allow GaN FINFET to reveal potential advantages such as high voltage and high frequency applications. In this work, a comprehensive study on RF and linearity analysis on Heterojunction‐free GaN layer FINFET through visual technology computer‐aided design (TCAD) device simulator is been illustrated. The influence of varying the Finwidth's of the device on numerous RF parameters like drain current, transconductance (gm), output conductance (gd), gate capacitances(Cgd and Cgs), cut‐off frequency (fT) are studied. And also, the impact of varying the Finwidth's of the device on the numerous linearity parameters like gm2, gm3, VIP3, IIP3, 1 dB compression point were also studied. It is been observed that the higher Finwidth value is more worthy for radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) applications.
Effects of precipitation and grazing on the diversity and productivity of desert steppe
Authors: Ye Ruhan , Yu Wanying , Yang Ding , Yi Fengyan , Zhang Pujin , Qiu Xiao , Tuya Wulan , Sun Hailian , Ye Xuehua , Yang Xuejun , Huang Zhenying , Liu Guofang
Published: February 2023

The variability of annual precipitation and grazing are primary drivers shaping the structure and function of plant communities in grasslands. Yet it remains unclear on a mechanistic understanding of how annual precipitation and grazing affect the plant community structure, function, and their linkage via direct or indirect pathways. We measured the plant community structure (plant traits, species abundance, and plant diversity), total aboveground biomass, total cover, and species covers in plant communities in responses to annual precipitation variability from 2014 to 2017 and grazing pressure comprising 0, 0.93, 1.82, and 2.71 sheep ha−1 in a desert steppe. Two‐way ANOVAs, ordinary least square regressions, and the structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to test the impacts of annual precipitation variability and grazing pressure on the plant community structure and function. Results showed that higher annual precipitation of 2016 and 2017 increased the relative abundances of forbs; grazing pressure increased the relative abundances of dominant grasses [Stipa breviflora Griseb. and Cleistogenes songorica (Roshev.) Ohwi], but decreased those of subdominant forbs (Convolvulus ammannii Desr. and Artemisia frigida Willd.). Plant traits, such as leaf nitrogen concentration, regulated plant species abundance directly or indirectly via affecting sheep diet selection. Annual precipitation variability and grazing pressure independently regulated plant diversity, aboveground biomass, and total cover, which the former had larger effects. There was slower decrease in grass biomass than that in forb biomass with increasing grazing pressure, indicating that dominant grasses are resilient to grazing but subdominant forbs are sensitive due to their distinct difference in sward palatability. The positive correlation between plant diversity and aboveground biomass was driven by both annual precipitation variability and grazing pressure. These highlight direct and indirect (via traits and abundances of plant species) effects of annual precipitation and grazing in shaping the structure and function of desert steppe ecosystems.
Land degradation and climate change lessened soil erodibility across a wide area of the southern Tibetan Plateau over the past 35–40 years
Authors: Lin Honghong , Cheng Xiaoli , Bruijnzeel L. Adrian , Duan Xingwu , Zhang Jun , Chen Liding , Zheng Hua , Lu Shaojuan , Dong Yifan , Huang Jiangcheng , Zhong Ronghua , Li Chun
Published: February 2023

The Tibetan Plateau's alpine ecosystem has been undergoing accelerated climate change and severe vegetation degradation in the past four decades, which has triggered a sharp increase in soil erosion hazards. However, the combined impacts of climate change and vegetation degradation on soil erodibility (K) across geographical and temporal scales remain unclear. Here, we present the first systematic investigation of spatio‐temporal variations inKunder different land uses across the southern Tibetan Plateau over the last 35–40 years, and identify the associated driving factors based on a paired resampling campaign conducted in the 1980s and 2020, covering 148 field sites.K‐values derived for the majority of grassland (75.0%) and cropland (66.2%) sites, as well as for a substantial number of forest sites (46.7%) showed a decreasing tendency with time, with average decreases of 31%, 14%, and 5%, respectively. Changes inKwere primarily (17.6%) attributed to soil erosion, but were exacerbated by climate change (8.2%). Interestingly, the declines inKresulted in significant decreases in (predicted) soil erosion rates as long as strong disturbances from climate change and human activities were absent. These findings confirm the existence of a negative feedback mechanism between soil erosion andKin most alpine ecosystems on the southern Tibetan Plateau. Our results reveal the extent to which the impact of vegetation degradation on the magnitude ofKis enhanced by climate change, thereby providing new insights into the feedback between alpine ecosystems, climate change, and anthropogenic interference.
KLF14/miR‐1283/TFAP2C axis inhibits HER2‐positive breast cancer progression via declining tumor cell proliferation
Authors: Chen Xue‐Zhong , He Wen‐Xing , Luo Rong‐Guang , Xia Guo‐Jin , Zhong Jin‐Xiu , Chen Qing‐Jie , Huang Yu‐Ying , Guan Yan‐Xing
Published: February 2023

MiR‐1283 has been identified as a tumor suppressor in some malignancies. Whereas, the role of miR‐1283 in HER2‐positive (HER2+) breast cancer, particularly its role in regulating cell proliferation, one of the most significant features of tumor progression, is unclear. The related microRNA screened by the breast cancer sample GSE131599 dataset were detected in HER2+ breast cancer tissues and cell lines. Then, the obtained miR‐1283 was overexpressed in SKBR3 and BT‐474 cells followed by relevant functional assays concerning cell proliferation and apoptosis. The xenograft mouse model was induced and the effect of miR‐1283 on tumor growth and cell proliferation was examined. The target of miR‐1283 and the transcription factor regulating miR‐1283 were predicted and identified. Finally, the influence of transcription factor KLF14 on cell proliferation and apoptosis was investigated. An integrated analysis confirmed that miR‐1283 expression was significantly decreased in HER2+ breast cancer tissues. Also, by q‐RT‐PCR detection, miR‐1283 expression was markedly reduced in HER2+ breast cancer tissues and cell lines. The miR‐1283 overexpression prevented the proliferation and enhanced apoptosis of HER2+ breast cancer cells, as well as inhibited tumor growth. Mechanistically, miR‐1283 inhibited TFAP2C expression by targeting the 3′‐untranslated regions of TFAP2C messenger RNA, and the KLF14 enhanced miR‐1283 level via binding to its promoter. The result subsequently confirmed the KLF14/miR‐1283 signaling suppressed cell proliferation in HER2+ breast cancer. Our results suggested that the KLF14/miR‐1283/TFAP2C axis inhibited HER2+ breast cancer progression, which might provide novel insight into mechanical exploration for this disease.
Neural stem/progenitor cell‐derived extracellular vesicles: A novel therapy for neurological diseases and beyond
Authors: Li Xiangyu , Zhu Yingbo , Wang Yi , Xia Xiaohuan , Zheng Jialin C.
Published: February 2023

As bilayer lipid membrane vesicles secreted by neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs), NSC‐derived extracellular vesicles (NSC‐EVs) have attracted growing attention for their promising potential to serve as novel therapeutic agents in treatment of neurological diseases due to their unique physicochemical characteristics and biological functions. NSC‐EVs exhibit advantages such as stable physical and chemical properties, low immunogenicity, and high penetration capacity to cross blood–brain barrier to avoid predicaments of the clinical applications of NSCs that include autoimmune responses, ethical/religious concerns, and the problematic logistics of acquiring fetal tissues. More importantly, NSC‐EVs inherit excellent neuroprotective and neuroregenerative potential and immunomodulatory capabilities from parent cells, and display outstanding therapeutic effects on mitigating behavioral alterations and pathological phenotypes of patients or animals with neurological diseases. In this review, we first comprehensively summarize the progress in functional research and application of NSC‐EVs in different neurological diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, acute neurological diseases, dementia/cognitive dysfunction, and peripheral diseases. Next, we provide our thoughts on current limitations/concerns as well as tremendous potential of NSC‐EVs in clinical applications. Last, we discuss future directions of further investigations on NSC‐EVs and their probable applications in both basic and clinical research.
The use of chimeric‐superthin anterolateral thigh flap in reconstruction of laryngopharyngoesophagectomy defects of hypopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Gur Ersin , Tiftikcioglu Yigit Ozer , Kuybulu Turgut Furkan , Turhal Goksel , Ozturk Kerem
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Due to 3D defects after resection of hypopharyngeal cancers, free flaps have become as first option for reconstruction and the anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) has been chosen frequently for soft tissue defects. Chimerization of the skin island of the ALT is also possible which can result in reconstruction of multiple defects simultaneously and monitorization of buried flaps. However, ALT can be bulky in some patients. The superthin ALT is well established by some authors especially for extremities but there is no study about the use of this modification in pharyngoesophageal defects. We present our experience of using chimeric‐superthin ALT for pharyngoesophageal reconstructions.

Patients and Methods

Between 2019 and 2022, six patients (one female and five male) underwent hypopharyngeal tumor resection and experienced chimeric‐superthin ALT flap reconstructions. Patients' ages were ranged between 53 and 71 (mean: 64) years old. The type of tumor was squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) for all patients. Three patients had total and three patients had 75% of pharyngoesophageal defects. Defect size was between 10 × 7 cm and 12 × 8.5 cm (mean: 87.08 cm2). All flaps were harvested as 5 mm thickness with two skin perforators. All flaps were divided into two individual skin islands as chimeric fashion. One of the skin islands was used for esophageal reconstruction and the other was used for both flap monitorization and tensionless closure of anterior neck skin.

Results

Total flap size was between 18 × 9 cm and 21 × 11 cm (mean: 200 cm2). In two patients, anastomoses were performed to pectoral branch of thoracoacromial vessels. Neck vessels were chosen as recipient for remaining patients. Wound dehiscence occurred in two patients between the neck skin and monitor island and was re‐sutured without any problems. There was no partial or total flap necrosis and all flaps survived. The follow up period was between 4 and 9 months (mean: 5.6). All patients had a successful functional outcome as swallowing.

Conclusion

The superthin‐chimeric ALT flap is a useful option when classical ALT is bulky in defects of hypopharyngeal cancer.
Can non‐typeable Haemophilus influenzae carriage surveillance data infer antimicrobial resistance associated with otitis media?
Authors: Bowman‐Derrick Sophia , Harris Tegan M. , Beissbarth Jemima , Kleinecke Mariana , Lawrence Katrina , Wozniak Teresa M. , Bleakley Amy , Rumaseb Angela , Binks Michael J. , Marsh Robyn L. , Morris Peter S. , Leach Amanda J. , Smith‐Vaughan Heidi
Published: February 2023

Importance

In remote communities of the Northern Territory, Australia, children experience high rates of otitis media (OM), commonly caused by non‐typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi). Few data exist on antibiotic susceptibility of NTHi from OM.

Objective

To determine whether population‐level nasopharyngeal NTHi antibiotic susceptibility data could inform antibiotic treatment for OM.

Methods

NTHi isolates (n = 92) collected from ear discharge between 2003 and 2013 were selected to time‐ and age‐match NTHi isolates from the nasopharyngeal carriage (n = 95). Antimicrobial susceptibility were tested. Phylogenomic trees and a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) were performed to determine the similarity of nasopharyngeal and ear isolates at a population level.

Results

Among 174 NTHi isolates available for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, 10.3% (18/174) were resistant to ampicillin and 9.2% (16/174) were resistant to trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole. Small numbers of isolates (≤3) were resistant to tetracycline, chloramphenicol, or amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid. There was no statistical difference in the proportion of ampicillin‐resistant (P = 0.11) or trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole‐resistant isolates (P = 0.70) between ear discharge and nasopharynx‐derived NTHi isolates. Three multi‐drug resistant NTHi isolates were identified. Phylogenomic trees showed no clustering of 187 Haemophilus influenzae isolates based on anatomical niche (nasopharynx or ear discharge), and no genetic variations that distinguished NTHi derived from ear discharge and nasopharyngeal carriage were evident in the GWAS.

Interpretation

In this population‐level study, nasopharyngeal and ear discharge isolates did not represent distinct microbial populations. These results support tracking of population‐level nasopharyngeal NTHi antibiotic resistance patterns to inform clinical management of OM in this population.