bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Is there anything else you would like me to know?”: Applying a trauma‐informed approach to the administration of the adverse childhood experiences questionnaire
Authors: Mendel Whitney E. , Sperlich Mickey , Fava Nicole M.
Published: April 2021

Nearly ubiquitous agreement exists regarding the potentially negative impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on health and well‐being across the lifespan. This has propelled a movement across the nation for consistent screening of ACEs. Despite agreement regarding the consequences of ACEs, little research related specifically to the administration of the ACE questionnaire exists. Using data from a mixed‐methods study of first‐time mothers as means of illustration, this paper examines shortcomings of the ACE questionnaire. Participant responses revealed ambiguity with item structure, limited breadth of included events, and failure to capture the gravity of the experience. These shortcomings underscore inadequacies of the measure in accurately understanding individuals' lived experiences and call for the application of trauma‐informed (TI) values, both in its content and administration. We apply the main tenets of a TI framework to the ACE questionnaire and make recommendations for its administration, translating theoretical underpinnings of a TI approach into action.
Atorvastatin ameliorates early brain injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage via inhibition of pyroptosis and neuroinflammation
Authors: Chen Junhui , Zhang Chunlei , Yan Tengfeng , Yang Lixiang , Wang Yuhai , Shi Zhonghua , Li Mingchang , Chen Qianxue
Published: April 2021

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a subtype of stroke with high mortality and morbidity due to the lack of effective therapy. Atorvastatin has been reported to alleviate early brain injury (EBI) following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) via reducing reactive oxygen species, antiapoptosis, regulated autophagy, and neuroinflammation. Which was the related to the pyroptosis? Pyroptosis can be defined as a highly specific inflammatory programmed cell death, distinct from classical apoptosis and necrosis. However, the precise role of pyroptosis in atorvastatin‐mediated neuroprotection following SAH has not been confirmed. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotection and potential molecular mechanisms of atorvastatin in the SAH‐induced EBI via regulating neural pyroptosis using the filament perforation model of SAH in male C57BL/6 mice, and the hemin‐induced neuron damage model in HT‐22. Atorvastatin or vehicle was administrated 2 h after SAH and hemin‐induced neuron damage. The mortality, neurological score, brain water content, and neuronal death were evaluated. The results show that the atorvastatin treatment markedly increased survival rate, neurological score, greater survival of neurons, downregulated the protein expression of NLRP1, cleaved caspase‐1, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and IL‐18, which indicated that atorvastatin‐inhibited pyroptosis and neuroinflammation, ameliorated neuron death in vivo/vitro subjected to SAH. Taken together, this study demonstrates that atorvastatin improved the neurological outcome in rats and reduced the neuron death by against neural pyroptosis and neuroinflammation.
Adiponectin regulates osteocytic MLO‐Y4 cell apoptosis in a high‐glucose environment through the AMPK/FoxO3a signaling pathway
Authors: Zeng Yuanyuan , Liang Hengxing , Guo Yue , Feng Yunzhi , Yao Qianqian
Published: April 2021

Clinical studies have shown that persistent hyperglycemia following oxidative stress is associated with the apoptosis of osteocytes in diabetics. Adiponectin (APN) can ameliorate oxidative stress, and its receptors have been identified in bone‐forming cells. However, the relationship between APN and osteocyte apoptosis has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate whether APN could prevent osteocyte apoptosis and regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in a high‐glucose environment. Hoechst staining and fluorescence microscopy were used to observe the apoptosis of osteocytic MLO‐Y4 cells. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were used to detect the expression of Caspase 3, Caspase 8, and Bcl‐2. ROS generation was investigated with an active oxygen kit and fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, the expression of proteins in the AMPK/FoxO3A signaling pathway was also studied by Western blot analysis. In a high‐glucose environment, APN promoted the proliferation of MLO‐Y4 osteocytes and the expression of Bcl‐2 but inhibited the expression of Caspase 3, Caspase 8, and ROS in a dose‐dependent manner. APN promoted the activation of p‐AMPK and p‐AMPK/AMPK, which reached their highest levels at 10 min and returned to baseline at 30 min. The expression of p‐FoxO3A/FoxO3A in both the cytoplasm and nucleus peaked at 15 min, and this expression was returned to baseline at 60 min. In summary, APN has an antiapoptotic effect and regulates ROS generation in MLO‐Y4 osteocytes in a high‐glucose environment. The AMPK/FoxO3A signaling pathway might be a key signaling pathway that participates in the effect of APN on regulating osteocyte apoptosis in diabetics.
Oxidoreductases as a versatile biocatalytic tool to tackle pollutants for clean environment – a review
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Bagheri Ahmad Reza , Vilar Débora S , Aramesh Nahal , Eguiluz Katlin Ivon Barrios , Ferreira Luiz Fernando Romanholo , Ashraf Syed Salman , Iqbal Hafiz M N
Published: April 2021

With the growing population and rapid industrial development of the world, various pollutants — explicitly known as emerging pollutants (EPs) and including micro and nanoplastics, pharmaceuticals, hazardous dyes, steroid estrogen, and organic pollutants — continue to enter into the environment and water sources. These EPs cause a variety of side effects and diseases, such as cancer, neurotoxic and mutagenic effects, stomach cramps, intestinal disorders, loss of peripheral vision, deteriorated movement coordination, and weakened muscles, even in low concentrations. The presence of EPs in the environment/water sources affects humans and animals and disturbs ecological integrity. Therefore, removing these EPs from the environment with a smart, greener, and environmentally competent technology has become a meaningful goal. Most of the EPs are stable in the media, and their removal is a considerable scientific challenge. Different treatment methods, like adsorption and degradation processes, have been used to eliminate these pollutants. Enzyme‐mediated approaches hold immense prospects in environmental cleanup and have been keenly explored recently. Many efforts have been made to apply biocatalytic‐based materials, like laccases and peroxidases, as unique tools alongside a powerful oxidation approach for the degradation and treatment of EPs. These enzymes' unique properties in terms of excellent selectivity and exclusive catalytic features make them robust candidates for biocatalytic treatment. This work spotlights the biocatalytic properties and application of oxidoreductases to remove EPs. The challenges, conclusive remarks, and standpoints for robust biocatalysts are also given. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Ten‐year follow‐up of patient‐centered comprehensive care using case completion curriculum
Authors: Park Sang E.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the patient‐based comprehensive model in the student teaching practice at Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) as a result of the case completion curriculum. The patient‐centered assessment system was implemented in 2009 as a clinical reform in clinical education to redirect predoctoral clinical learning from a student requirement‐driven assessment system to a patient‐centered treatment delivery model.

Methods

The sample for the 10‐year retrospective cohort study consisted of the graduating classes of 2010 through 2019 at HSDM and all data regarding case completion and student feedback were obtained from the Office of Dental Education.

Results

The average number of completed cases by the predoctoral graduating class has risen from 22.8 in 2010 to 33.26 in 2019, and as a result, the number of completed cases required for graduation has been adjusted twice, from 15 to 20 in 2012, and from 20 to 25 including two pediatric cases in 2018.

Conclusion

The redesigned clinical component of the curriculum can contribute to improved efforts in providing a patient‐based comprehensive care environment and in helping broaden student learning experience in the predoctoral dental education program.
Machine Learning‐Based Integration of Prognostic Magnetic Resonance Imaging Biomarkers for Myometrial Invasion Stratification in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ortega Alejandro , Alegre Alberto , Lago Víctor , Carot‐Sierra José Miguel , Ten‐Esteve Amadeo , Montoliu Guillermina , Domingo Santiago , Alberich‐Bayarri Ángel , Martí‐Bonmatí Luis
Published: April 2021

Background

Estimation of the depth of myometrial invasion (MI) in endometrial cancer is pivotal in the preoperatively staging. Magnetic resonance (MR) reports suffer from human subjectivity. Multiparametric MR imaging radiomics and parameters may improve the diagnostic accuracy.

Purpose

To discriminate between patients with MI ≥ 50% using a machine learning‐based model combining texture features and descriptors from preoperatively MR images.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

One hundred forty‐three women with endometrial cancer were included. The series was split into training (n = 107, 46 with MI ≥ 50%) and test (n = 36, 16 with MI ≥ 50%) cohorts.

Field Strength/Sequences

Fast spin echo T2‐weighted (T2W), diffusion‐weighted (DW), and T1‐weighted gradient echo dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) sequences were obtained at 1.5 or 3 T magnets.

Assessment

Tumors were manually segmented slice‐by‐slice. Texture metrics were calculated from T2W and ADC map images. Also, the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), wash‐in slope, wash‐out slope, initial area under the curve at 60 sec and at 90 sec, initial slope, time to peak and peak amplitude maps from DCE sequences were obtained as parameters. MR diagnostic models using single‐sequence features and a combination of features and parameters from the three sequences were built to estimate MI using Adaboost methods. The pathological depth of MI was used as gold standard.

Statistical Test

Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, precision and recall were computed to assess the Adaboost models performance.

Results

The diagnostic model based on the features and parameters combination showed the best performance to depict patient with MI ≥ 50% in the test cohort (accuracy = 86.1% and AUROC = 87.1%). The rest of diagnostic models showed a worse accuracy (accuracy = 41.67%–63.89% and AUROC = 41.43%–63.13%).

Data Conclusion

The model combining the texture features from T2W and ADC map images with the semi‐quantitative parameters from DW and DCE series allow the preoperative estimation of myometrial invasion.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Different incidences of acute kidney injury (AKI) and outcomes in COVID‐19 patients with and without non‐azithromycin antibiotics: A retrospective study
Authors: Mousavi Movahed Seyed Majid , Akhavizadegan Hamed , Dolatkhani Fatemeh , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Aghajani Faezeh , Faghir Gangi Monireh , Ghazi Zahra , Ghasemi Hoomaan
Published: April 2021

In late December 2019, an outbreak of a novel coronavirus which caused coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) was initiated. Acute kidney injury (AKI) was associated with higher severity and mortality of COVID‐19. We aimed to evaluate the effects of comorbidities and medications in addition to determining the association between AKI, antibiotics against coinfections (AAC) and outcomes of patients. We conducted a retrospective study on adult patients hospitalized with COVID‐19 in a tertiary center. Our primary outcomes were the incidence rate of AKI based on comorbidities and medications. The secondary outcome was to determine mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and prolonged hospitalization by AKI and AAC. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression method was used to explore predictive effects of AKI and AAC on outcomes. Out of 854 included participants, 118 patients developed AKI in whom, 57 used AAC and 61 did not. Hypertension and diabetes were the most common comorbidities in patients developed AKI. AAC, lopinavir/ritonavir, ribavirin, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers, and corticosteroids had significant higher rate of administration in patients developed AKI. AAC were associated with higher deaths (odds ratio [OR] = 5.13; 95% confidence interval (CI): 3–8.78) and ICU admission (OR = 5.87; 95%CI: 2.81–12.27), while AKI had higher OR for prolonged hospitalization (3.37; 95%CI: 1.76–6.45). Both AKI and AAC are associated with poor prognosis of COVID‐19. Defining strict criteria regarding indications and types of antibiotics would help overcoming concomitant infections and minimizing related adverse events.
Social Existence Theory
Authors: Devlin James M. , Toof Jennifer , Jain Surabhi , Stewart Keon , Mack Ronetta
Published: April 2021

Social existence is vital for any person's survival. Social existence theory relates to how individuals conceptualize their existence in a social world, learn from others, and communicate with others. We discuss constructivism, social learning, and the influence of language, as well as the influence of language on society's views of mental illness and the systemic nature of these views.
MMPs in tissues retrieved during surgery from patients with TMJ disorders relate to pain more than to radiological damage score
Authors: Ita Meagan E. , Ghimire Prabesh , Granquist Eric J. , Winkelstein Beth A.
Published: April 2021

Orofacial pain is among the most common chronic pain conditions and can result from temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) drive degeneration of TMJ tissues and likely mediate pain in TMJ disorders given their role in nociception. However, few studies have assessed MMPs in the TMJ innervated tissues nor in the context of pain. This study defined the extent of MMP‐1, MMP‐9, and MMP‐2 in TMJ tissues from patients undergoing total joint replacement (TJR) or arthroplasty discectomy for painful TMJ disorders. Protein expression was probed by Western blot in TMJ disc and capsular ligaments taken during TJR (n = 6) or discectomy (n = 3) for osteoarthritis or internal derangement in an IRB‐approved study. Pro‐ and active MMP‐1, active MMP‐9, and pro‐ and active MMP‐2 are detectable. MMP‐1 and MMP‐9 correlate positively to each other (Kendall's τ = 0.63; p = 0.01), strengthening the hypothesis that they are mechanistically related in regulatory cascades. Active MMP‐1 and active MMP‐9 correlate positively with self‐reported pain scores (τ ≥ 0.51; p ≤ 0.04), suggesting their involvement in peripheral nociception. Overall, neither MMPs nor pain correlate with the functional vertical opening of the jaw. MMP‐1 varies with the observed stage of degeneration during surgery (p = 0.04). Neither overall MMPs nor pain correlate with the overall magnetic resonance imaging scores, corroborating the longstanding, but confounding, clinical observation that pain and radiological evidence of joint damage are not always related. Clinical significance: These findings suggest that MMPs mediate pain in innervated soft tissues and may be targets for diagnosing disease stage and treatments in painful TMJ disorders.
Improvement of nutrient bioavailability in millets: Emphasis on the application of enzymes
Authors: Tharifkhan Shan Ahamed , Perumal Anand Babu , Elumalai Arunkumar , Moses Jeyan Arthur , Anandharamakrishnan Chinnaswamy
Published: April 2021

Millets are a traditional staple food of the dryland regions of the world and are rich in essential nutrients like protein, fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber. Also, millets commonly synthesize a range of secondary metabolites to protect themselves against adverse conditions. These factors are collectively termed anti‐nutritional factors and the existence of these factors in millets might reduce the accessibility of the nutrients in humans. Some of these factors include protease inhibitors, tannins, non‐starch polysaccharides‐glucans, phytates, and oxalates each of which might directly or indirectly affect the digestibility of nutrients. Methods like soaking, germination, autoclaving, debranning, and the addition of exogenous enzymes have been used to reduce the anti‐nutritional factors and elevate the bioavailability of the nutrients. This review summarizes various methods that have been used to improve nutrient bioavailability, specifically emphasizing the use of enzymes to improve nutrient bioavailability from millets. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Subacute safety assessment of recombinant Lactococcus lactis on the gut microbiota of male Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Chen Guowei , Yang Zixin , Cao Chunting , Xiao Xue , Huang Yadong , Tian Lingmin , Bai Weibin
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Lactococcus lactis strain pGSMT/MG1363 is a genetically modified microorganism (GMM) that constitutively expresses human metallothionein‐I fusion protein to combine with intracellular lead. Unlike traditional probiotics, pGSMT/MG1363 lacks a history of safe use in food. Administration of microorganism could influence the gut microbial community and consequently confer health benefits or cause disadvantages to the host. To date, little has been done to assess the influence of recombinant strain pGSMT/MG1363 on the stability of gut microbiota.

RESULTS

Liver, testis and kidney sections of male Sprague–Dawley rats orally administered pGSMT/MG1363 for 6 weeks showed normal structure and no pathological damage. There were no adverse effects on the analyzed serum biochemical parameters between the pGSMT/MG1363 group and the MG1363 group. Principal coordinate analysis showed that, compared with the MG1363 group, the 6‐week‐old fecal gut microbiota of rats fed with pGSMT/MG1363 was not significantly different (Adonis, P = 0.802). pGSMT/MG1363 treatment for 6 weeks did not significantly change the relative abundance of gut microbiota at the phylum and genus levels in comparison with MG1363 treatment.

CONCLUSION

Compared to the non‐GM strain MG1363 group, administration of the recombinant strain pGSMT/MG1363 for 6 weeks showed no adverse effects on the analyzed physiological parameters and gut microbial compositions of male Sprague–Dawley rats. The results suggested that, in terms of gut microbiota stability, pGSMT/MG1363 could be considered as safe as MG1363, at least for short‐term intake. Further toxicological evaluations still need to be considered before drawing a definite conclusion concerning the safe use of pGSMT/MG1363. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Prediction of mechanical extraction oil yield of new sunflower hybrids: artificial neural network model
Authors: Lužaić Tanja , Romanić Ranko , Grahovac Nada , Jocić Siniša , Cvejić Sandra , Hladni Nada , Pezo Lato
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Sunflower seeds are in the top five most abundant oilseeds in the world, as well as sunflower oil in the edible oils group. Recently, increasing attention has been paid to cold‐pressed sunflower oil because less processing is involved and no solvent is used. The present study was carried out to investigate dimensions (length, width, thickness), firmness, general (moisture content and hull content, mass of 1000 seeds), gravimetric (true and bulk density, porosity) and geometric characteristics (equivalent diameter, surface area, seed volume, sphericity) of 20 new sunflower hybrid seeds. Steps to determine most of these parameters are quite simple and easy since the process does not require long time or special equipment.

RESULTS

Principal component analysis and cluster analysis confirmed differences in the mentioned characteristics between oily and confectionary sunflower hybrid seeds. One of the major differences between two groups of samples was in extraction oil yield. Mechanical extraction oil yield of the oily hybrid seeds was significantly (P ˂ 0.05) higher (from 68.72 ± 4.21% to 75.61 ± 1.99%) compared to confectionary hybrids (from 20.10 ± 2.82% to 39.91 ± 6.23%). Extraction oil yield values are known only after oil extraction.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge of the extraction oil yield value before the mechanical extraction enables better management of the process. By application of the artificial neural network approach, an optimal neural network model was developed. The developed model showed a good generalization capability to predict the mechanical extraction oil yield of new sunflower hybrids based on the experimental data, which was a main goal of this paper. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Polarization‐independent liquid crystal‐based refractive index sensor
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Zhan Tao , Wu Shin‐Tson
Published: April 2021

A polarization‐independent refractive index (RI) sensor with a sensitivity of 50 nm/RIU is demonstrated. The proposed RI sensor simply consists of a liquid crystal (LC) polymeric polarization grating film and one glass substrate. The wavelength shift over the RI of the surrounding medium is investigated through anisotropic rigorous coupled‐wave analysis. Such an LC‐based polarization‐independent RI sensor not only enables the usage of an unpolarized light source but also manifests a high sensitivity, offering great potential for the integration with display systems.
Development of ultrasound‐assisted centrifugal extraction combined with two countercurrent chromatography systems for the simultaneous extraction and isolation of phytochemicals
Authors: Zhang Yuchi , Liu Ruoyao , Liu Chunming , Li Sainan , Hou Wanchao
Published: April 2021

We proposed a method for the extraction of medicinal herbs, called ultrasound‐assisted centrifugal extraction, and an online solvent concentration method. These techniques were coupled with two countercurrent chromatography systems and applied to the continuous extraction and online isolation of chemical constituents from Inonotus obliquus. Raw plants were extracted using a two‐phase petroleum–ethanol–water (2.0:1.0:2.0, v/v/v) process, and then the aqueous and organic phases were concentrated using the proposed online solvent concentrator. The countercurrent chromatography preparation prior to separation includes pumping of the two‐phase solution, rotating column, and equilibrium column. Following online concentration, the extracted solution was pumped into a second countercurrent chromatography process for separation. During separation, the extraction solution and concentrated extract were prepared automatically. Upon completion of the first cycle of ultrasound‐assisted centrifugal extraction/two countercurrent chromatography, the second cycle experiment starts. This process can be indefinitely repeated. In this study, six target compounds with purities above 97.71% were successfully extracted and isolated online using a two‐phase solvent system consisting of n‐hexane‐ethyl acetate‐acetonitrile (4.5:1.5:5.5, v/v/v) and n‐hexane–ethyl acetate–methanol–water (0.4:3.0:1.5:2.5, v/v/v/v). Compared to conventional extraction methods, the instrumental setup of the proposed method provides enhanced automation, efficiency, purity, and systematic extraction and isolation of natural products.
Estimating Sightability for Helicopter Surveys Using Surrogates of White‐Tailed Deer
Authors: DYAL JORDAN R. , Miller Karl V. , Cherry Michael J. , D'Angelo Gino J.
Published: April 2021

On large management units where terrain allows observation of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) from the air, helicopter surveys may provide managers with cost‐effective and accurate estimates of population abundance; however, imperfect detection of deer introduces negative bias. This can result in potentially inappropriate management recommendations (e.g., harvest prescriptions). Sightability estimators are designed to model detection heterogeneity based on factors that affect observer detection of target animals. Sightability models are widely used to estimate ungulate abundance; however, previous researchers have developed sightability models using radio‐collared animals, potentially introducing bias during model development attributed to unaccounted for movement between initial and follow‐up flights. Therefore, our objectives were to model detection probability using surrogates of white‐tailed deer as a function of covariates including distance from transect, vegetative obstruction, and light conditions to improve population estimates derived from helicopter surveys and apply our final sightability model in operational helicopter surveys. We conducted our study in 2019 on a 399.4‐km2 study area within a 1,210‐km2 cattle ranch in central Florida, USA. We placed 3‐dimensional archery targets as surrogates for white‐tailed deer at assigned locations unknown to observers across a combination of stratified bins of vegetative obstruction and distances from the transect. Our top model indicated that distance from the transect and vegetative obstruction negatively affected detection of deer. Detection probability on the flight transect ranged from 0.95 (95% CI = 0.89–0.98) for vegetative obstruction 0–25% and distance from transect 0–25 m to 0.05 (95% CI = 0.01–0.18) for vegetative obstruction 76–100% and distance from transect 100–125 m. We applied our sightability model to operational surveys on 3 units, which produced population estimates averaging 26% higher than those derived from uncorrected counts. Observers simultaneously recorded live deer during operational flights, of which 60% of deer groups were observed while stationary. Our methods using stationary surrogates to develop region‐specific sightability models could be used in other study areas to account for imperfect detection of white‐tailed deer. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.
Crop yield and soil organic carbon under ridge–furrow cultivation in China: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Yunqi , Gao Fuli , Wang Lixin , Guo Tongji , Qi Liuran , Zeng Huanyu , Liang Yuexin , Zhang Kai , Jia Zhikuan , Zhang Rui
Published: April 2021

Ridge–furrow cultivation (RF) is a popular emerging technique that can increase crop productivity in dry areas. However, the efficacy of RF on crop yield and soil organic carbon (SOC) remains uncertain under different climate and management conditions. Here, we compiled data from 48 publications to evaluate the response of yield and SOC to RF in China. Overall, our meta‐analysis showed that RF increased yield by 30.2%, but it had no effects on SOC. When differentiated based on different categories, yield and SOC varied by crop species, climate, soil textures, mulching management, and ridge–furrow patterns. RF increased the yield of wheat, maize, soybean, rape, linseed, potato, and SOC under soybean cultivation. Yield increase with RF was also consistent across temperature and precipitation. Yield increase was observed in all the soil textures. There were no RF effects on SOC under different soil textures. RF enhanced yields under no mulching, straw mulching and plastic film mulching, but increased SOC only in combination with straw mulching. A higher yield increase was observed under alternating small and large ridges (ASLR) than alternating ridges and furrows (AR). RF decreased SOC by 11.7% under AR, but had no effects on SOC under ASLR. Together, ASLR with straw mulching could increase yield and SOC in coarse soil texture regions with annual mean temperature >10°C and annual mean precipitation > 400 mm. This study showed the importance of considering local environmental conditions with management practices in identifying appropriate RF practices for improving crop productivity and soil carbon sequestration.
Remote sensing‐based biological and nonbiological indices for evaluating desertification in Iran: Image versus field indices
Authors: Jafari Reza , Abedi Maedeh
Published: April 2021

Mapping and monitoring of the complex process of desertification based on ground data in broad arid and semiarid areas faces basic limitations. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to propose a new method for mapping this phenomenon in central Iran using biological and nonbiological (BNB) indices of remote sensing products from 2003 to 2016. For this purpose, BNB indices including normalized difference vegetation index, land surface temperature, temperature vegetation dryness index, precipitation, evapotranspiration, net primary production, rain use efficiency (RUE), aridity index, and slope were extracted using MOD13A2, MOD11A2, PERSIANN‐CDR, and SRTM products. After calibration and normalization of indices, they were combined using fuzzy logic and gamma operator and the combined 2003 map was validated by MEDALUS model map prepared based on ground data in 2003 using Pearson correlation and error matrix. Results showed more than 70% correlation (p < .001) as well as overall accuracy and kappa coefficient of more than 70% and 0.5 between remote sensing‐based and MEDALUS‐based desertification maps. According to the 2003 and 2016 maps, desertification classes including low, moderate, severe, and very severe changed from 11.9, 49.8, 34, and 4.1% to 11.11, 43.21, 40.43, and 5.24%, respectively, which indicate increasing trend of desertification in the region. The findings demonstrate the high capability of proposed method to map and monitor desertification classes. Therefore, it can be used to update existing desertification models and to report desertification condition and its positive and negative trends at local, national, and international levels.
Laser‐Assisted Hyaluronic Acid Delivery by Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser in Facial Skin Remodeling: A Prospective Randomized Split‐Face Study in France
Authors: Benzaquen Michael , Fongue Jessica , Pauly Vanessa , Collet‐Villette Anne‐Marie
Published: April 2021

Background and Objectives

Combining the efficacy of ablative fractional carbon dioxide lasers (AFXL) to laser‐assisted hyaluronic acid delivery (LAHAD) has not yet been studied. The objective of our study was to evaluate the safety and the efficacy of laser‐assisted hyaluronic acid (HA) delivery with AFXL in facial skin remodeling.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

We conducted a prospective, double‐blinded, randomized split‐face study on 20 patients from 30 to 70 years old, with a skin phototype from I to IV. Each patient received full‐face treatment with AFXL, immediately followed by the application in droplets into the fractional ablative tunnels of 1 ml of HA gel on one hemiface and 1 ml of physiological saline on the other hemiface. To evaluate postlaser aftermath, the intensity of erythema, edema, and crusts was graded. To assess facial skin remodeling, we scored the improvement of skin texture, firmness, fine lines, and skin radiance from baseline. Patients were evaluated on the 3rd and 7th day, 1st and 3rd month using clinical evaluations, photographs, and patient questionnaires.

Results

We showed equivalence in postlaser aftermath between HA‐treated and nontreated hemiface. Trend data analyses at the 3rd month suggested that immediate application of HA after AFXL resulted in a greater improvement in facial skin remodeling, especially for skin texture (mean score of 2.60 vs. 2.45) and skin firmness (mean score of 2.55 vs. 2.40). Skin radiance showed the best improvement, reaching almost a score of 5/10.

Conclusions

LAHAD with AFXL is a safe treatment showing promising results in facial skin remodeling. These findings need to be confirmed by a larger study to evaluate the value of LAHAD in daily clinical practice. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Superhydrophobic aluminum alloy surface with excellent universality, corrosion resistance, and antifouling performance prepared without prepolishing
Authors: Feng Libang , Sultonzoda Firdavs , Wang Jing , Wang Haitao , Xue Fengxin
Published: April 2021

It is urgently necessary to seek more simple and effective methods to construct superhydrophobic metal surfaces to improve the corrosion resistance and antifouling performance. Herein, a facile method for fabricating superhydrophobic aluminum alloy surface is developed via boiling water treatment and stearic acid modification. It is noteworthy that no prepolishing on aluminum alloy is required and no caustic reagents and typical equipments are used during the preparation procedure. Therefore, the fabrication method is quite a simple and environment‐friendly technique. Both micro‐ and nano‐scaled binary structure forms at the resultant aluminum alloy surface while long alkyl chains are grafted onto the rough aluminum alloy surface chemically. Consequently, the resultant aluminum alloy exhibits outstanding superhydrophobicity. More importantly, the superhydrophobicity has excellent universality, diversity, stability, excellent corrosion resistance, and antifouling performance. The facile preparation, excellent superhydrophobic durability, and outstanding performance are quite in favor of the practical application.
Glanzlichter der Forschung
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: April 2021

Forschung, die Menschen erst zum Lachen und dann zum Nachdenken bringt – das ist das Credo der Ignobelpreise. Und Sie können es glauben: Nichts, aber auch wirklich nichts verdient es, nicht erforscht zu werden.
Effect of ethylene diamine tetra‐acetic acid and functional monomers on the structure and adsorption properties of copper (II) ion‐imprinted polymers
Authors: Chaipuang Angkana , Phungpanya Chalida , Thongpoon Chalermporn , Watla‐iad Kanchana , Inkaew Prachak , Machan Theeraphan , Suwantong Orawan
Published: April 2021

Novel copper (II) ion‐imprinted polymers (Cu‐IIPs) were synthesized by bulk polymerization using 1 mmol of copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate as the template ion, 1 mmol of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as the ligand, and 4 mmol of 4‐vinyl pyridine (4‐VP) or methacrylic acid (MAA) as the functional monomer dissolved in a porogen of 20 mL of methanol. Polymerization was performed with 20 mmol of pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA) as the crosslinker and 1 mmol of benzoyl peroxide as the initiator. The effect of pH, time, initial concentration of Cu2+, and selectivity tests on the adsorption capacity were investigated using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS). The prepared polymers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Adsorption capacity of Cu‐IIPs prepared with MAA increased from 0.794 to 2.163 mg g−1 at pH 6 within 24 hours, while Cu‐IIPs from MAA had high recognition ability with better recognition of Cu2+ than other ions. Thus, these Cu‐IIPs demonstrated potential application as an adsorbent for efficient removal of Cu2+ from aqueous solutions.
Effect of transfer from a pediatric to adult cystic fibrosis center on clinical status and hospital attendance
Authors: Collins Rachel , Singh Bhajan , Payne Donald N. , Bharat Chrianna , Noffsinger William , Dhaliwal Satvinder S. , O'Dea Christopher , Mulrennan Siobhain
Published: April 2021

Aim

Transfer from pediatric to adult services could lead to clinical deterioration, few studies have examined this. We sought to examine the clinical impact of a structured individualized transition and transfer process in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF).

Methods

Medical records of all patients with CF in Western Australia who transferred from a pediatric center (Princess Margaret Hospital for Children) to an adult CF center (Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital) between 2008 and 2012 were reviewed. Data were extracted for 2 years before and after transfer. The number of CF outpatient visits, inpatient days, and home intravenous antibiotic therapy (HIVT) days were recorded at yearly intervals before and after transfer. Sputum culture results at transfer were collected. All respiratory function and anthropometric data over the 4 years were extracted.

Results

Forty‐two patients with CF were transferred between 2008 and 2012. The mean age at transfer was 18.9 years (range 17–22). Compared to 1‐year pre‐transfer, the frequency of outpatient visits at 1‐ and 2‐year post‐transfer increased. After transfer, there was no change in BMI, HIVT days, or inpatient days, and no acceleration in the expected decline in FEV1.

Conclusion

This study found that transfer from a pediatric to an adult CF center using a structured, individualized transition and transfer process was not associated with accelerated clinical deterioration.
Crystal structure of a GDP‐6‐OMe‐4‐keto‐L‐xylo‐heptose reductase from Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Kim Jun‐Hong , Hofmann Andreas , Kim Jeong‐Sun
Published: April 2021

Carbohydrates play a major role in infection strategies of various enteric pathogens. In Campylobacter jejuni, the most common cause of gastroenteritis, uniquely modified heptoses found in surface carbohydrates are synthesized by specific pathways. Owing to the importance of such pathways for the infectious potential of pathogens and/or their virulence, these biosynthesis pathways present potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Here, we determined the crystal structure of GDP‐6‐OMe‐4‐keto‐L‐xylo‐heptose reductase (MlghC), an enzyme within the L‐gluco‐heptose synthesis pathway of C. jejuni strain NCTC 11168. This enzyme lacks the canonical tyrosine residue of the conserved catalytic Ser‐Lys‐Tyr triad commonly found among functionally related reductases. Despite adopting the overall two‐domain fold shared with other short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase family members, subtle structural differences in the interface between the cofactor‐ and substrate‐binding domains explain the absence of epimerase activity and different substrate specificity of this reductase. Modeling of the product‐bound complex based on the crystal structure presented here suggests that a tyrosine residue unique to MlghC replaces the missing canonical residue of the catalytic triad.
Kopsanone inhibits proliferation and migration of invasive colon cancer cells
Authors: Bonfim Daniella Paiva , Nakamura Celso Vataru , de Araújo Júnior João Xavier , Pessini Greisiele Lorena , Leite Paulo Emílio Correa , Morgado‐Díaz José Andrés , Leve Fernanda
Published: April 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer‐related death globally. In spite of the increasing knowledge on molecular characteristics of different cancer types including CRC, there is limitation in the development of an effective treatment. The present study aimed to verify the antitumor effect of kopsanone, an indole alkaloid. To achieve this, we treated human colon cancer cells (Caco‐2 and HCT‐116) with kopsanone and analyzed its effects on cell viability, cell–cell adhesion, and actin cytoskeleton organization. In addition, functional assays including micronuclei formation, colony formation, cell migration, and invasiveness were performed. We observed that kopsanone reduced viability and proliferation and induced micronuclei formation of HCT‐116 cells. Also, kopsanone inhibited anchorage‐dependent colony formation and modulated adherens junctions (AJs), thus increasing the localization of E‐cadherin and β‐catenin in the cytosol of the invasive cells. Finally, fluorescence assays showed that kopsanone decreased stress fibers formation and reduced migration but not invasion of HCT‐116 cells. Taken together, these findings indicate that kopsanone reduces proliferation and migration of HCT‐116 cells via modulation of AJs and can therefore be considered for future in vivo and clinical investigation as potential therapeutic agent for treatment of CRC.
Impact of the Alkyl Side Chains of Cations and Anions on the Activity and Renaturation of Lysozyme: A Systematic Study Performed Using Six Amino‐Acid‐Based Ionic Liquids
Authors: Rakowska Paulina W. , Kloskowski Adam
Published: April 2021

The impact of the structure of ionic liquid on the activity and renaturation of lysozyme from the hen egg white (HEWL) was investigated. A set of six ionic liquids based on morpholinium cation and N‐acylated amino acids as anions were exploited. The matrix used was based on two homologous series: one with N‐acetyl‐L‐valinate [Val] as a common anion and morpholinium cation with a different number of carbon atoms in the n‐alkyl chain (n=2, 4, 6, 8); and second, a common N‐butyl‐N‐methylmorpholinium cation and different N‐acylated amino acids. Interactions of ionic liquids with HEWL were explored by analyzing the changes in the activity of the enzyme based on the rate of hydrolysis of a β‐1,4‐glycosidic bond between components of peptidoglycan in the cell wall of Micrococcus luteus bacteria. The results demonstrated various mechanisms of interaction of cations and anions with HEWL, and hence, different trends in the association between the number of carbon atoms and the given property.
Study on Magnetic Porous Carbon Microspheres as a Novel Adsorbent for Malachite Green
Authors: Gong Liang , Wang Jie , Jiang Chenhao , Xiao Teng , Shen Kang , Lei Ming , Tang Yiping
Published: April 2021

In this paper, a novel adsorbent of magnetic mesoporous carbon microspheres (MCS) are prepared by template methods and using nano‐Fe3O4 particles as magnetic cores, and the adsorption capacity and mechanism are studied in detail. The results show that MCS exhibits high performance for removing malachite green (MG), the highest adsorption capacity can reach about 468.5 mg g−1. Furthermore, the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model and the quasi‐second‐order kinetic model can explain the experimental phenomena very well. And the high adsorption capacity of MCS is mainly attributed to its unique mesoporous structure by increasing the specific surface area and providing sufficient active sites. In addition, after magnetic separation and recovery, MCS can be regenerated with ethanol. And MCS maintains a high adsorption rate of 84.5 % after 5 cycles of MG adsorption and desorption. This composite material with high adsorption efficiency and rapid magnetic separation is a promising recyclable adsorbent for the actual wastewater treatment and purification process.
Preparation of Cu(II)‐Containing MOF Catalyst and Application in the α, β‐Dehydrogenation of Saturated Ketones
Authors: Pan Gao‐Fei , Wu Yun‐Long , Xing Rui‐Guang , Zhang Bang‐Wen
Published: April 2021

A 0D Cu(II)‐containing metal organic framework (MOF) catalyst has been developed to promote α, β‐dehydrogenation of saturated ketones in the yield of 70 %–90 % at mild conditions without extra organic ligand. The single crystal data of the Cu‐MOF catalyst shows the 0D structure based on the typical dinuclear paddle‐wheel shaped, comprising of a Cu(II) center and four activated N atoms (including two N‐methyl‐pyrrolidone and two pyridine) which can activate the hydrogen atom of the saturated ketones. The Cu(II)‐containing MOF catalyst also exhibited satisfactory stability in the non‐proton polar solvent and could be reused for more than five times without any significant loss of activity.
A New Class of Linezolid‐Based Molecules as Potential Antimicrobial and Antitubercular Agents: A Rational Approach
Authors: Kushwaha Babita , Kushwaha Narva Deshwar , Parish Tanya , Guzman Junitta , Kajee Afsana , Shaikh Mahamadhanif S. , Kehinde Idowu , Obakachi Vincent A. , Pathan Tabasum Khan , Shinde Suraj Raosaheb , Karpoormath Rajshekhar
Published: April 2021

A total of 19 linezolid‐based novel molecules (6 a–d,8 a–dand10 a–k) were synthesized by utilizing a simple and convenient synthetic method. Structures of all the novel derivatives were established by1H,13C NMR, FT‐IR and mass spectroscopic methods. In addition, structural elucidation of some representative compounds by19F, 2D NMR and single crystal X‐ray experiment's (6 dand8 b) further confirmed the structures of the desired compounds. All the final compounds were evaluated for theirin vitroantitubercular (Mycobacterium tuberculosisH37RV strain), antibacterial (S. aureus,B. subtilis,E. coliandP. aeruginosa) and antifungal (C. neoformans,C. albicansandA. niger) activities. The docking study of most active compounds were also performed towards 50S ribosomal unit ofHaloarcula marismortui. The Lipinski's rule of five and significant ADME pharmacokinetic parameters were also analysed indicating potential to develop good oral antimicrobial and antitubercular drug candidates.
Precisely Engineering Architectures of Co/C Sub‐Microreactors for Selective Syngas Conversion
Authors: Wei Jiatong , Chen Yanping , Ma Yanfu , Shi Xin , Zhang Xiaoli , Shi Chunjing , Hu Ming , Liu Jian
Published: April 2021

Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis (FTS) is an effective route to produce olefins, gasoline, diesel, and oxygenates from syngas (CO + H2). However, it still remains a challenge for regulating the product distribution of FTS. Here, a series of Co/C sub‐microreactors with precise designed nanoarchitectures are synthesized for selective syngas conversion. Through a combination of surface protection‐assisted etching and following carbonization process, Co/C sub‐microreactors with solid cube, double‐shelled hollow box, and hollow box architectures, namely, Co/C‐Cube, Co/C‐DBox, Co/C‐Box can be obtained. In FTS, comparing with solid Co/C‐Cube, double‐shelled hollow structured Co/C‐DBox is inclined to grow long‐chain hydrocarbon products, whereas hollow structured Co/C‐Box avails the formation of short‐chain hydrocarbon chemicals. Therefore, shape selective catalysis and controlled product distribution of FTS are realized by tuning the architectures of Co/C sub‐microreactors. It is expected to fundamentally unravel the heterogeneous catalytic process via upfront designing and precisely regulating the architectures of micro/nanoreactors.
Nanoarchitectonics at Interfaces for Regulations of Biorelated Phenomena: Small Structures with Big Effects
Authors: Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: April 2021

Syntheses, analyses, and controls of small structures have been paid much attention to in recent research activities. Architecting appropriate small structures into rational organization is the promising methodology to produce functional material systems with high performances. This important role is assigned to an emerging concept, nanoarchitectonics, which is supposed to produce functional material systems from nanoscale units through fusion of nanotechnology with the other related fields such as supramolecular chemistry, organic chemistry, materials science, and biorelated technology. Herein, interfacial nanoarchitectonics strategies for regulation of biorelated phenomena by small structural controls are described with the classification of interfacial types: rigid solid interfacial nanoarchitectonics and flexible liquid interfacial nanoarchitectonics. In addition to general tendencies seen in recent research, several detailed examples, such as regulation of self‐renewal with multipotency for stem cell on nanostructured surfaces, fate control of stem cell at liquid−liquid interface, and biolike metamorphosis with nonbio‐assembly at liquid−liquid interface, are described. These examples strikingly indicate that small structures at interfaces regulate big bioeffects including living cell fates.
Recent Representative Advances on the Synthesis and Reactivity of N‐Heterocyclic‐Carbene‐Supported Zinc Complexes
Authors: Specklin David , Fliedel Christophe , Dagorne Samuel
Published: April 2021

The present account reviews the most recent noteworthy developments on the synthesis, structure and catalytic applications of Zn‐NHC species, a class of complexes that have attracted attention over the past five to ten years due to their enhanced robustness and hydrolytic stability versus classical Zn organometallics. In particular, thanks to NHC stabilization, access to unprecedented Zn species were recently achieved, including two‐coordinate Zn(II) organocations and thermally stable molecularly well‐defined Zn hydride species, opening the way to effective Zn‐mediated hydro‐silylation/‐boration catalysis of various unsaturated substrates under mild conditions. The potential of NHC−Zn species for the stabilization of unprecedented Zn species and use in various catalytic applications is only emerging and the vast array of readily available NHC structures should promote future developments of the field.