bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Better communication between experts is needed to solve the environmental origins of birth defects
Authors: Sparrow Duncan B.
Published: November 2021

More than 6% of babies are born with a structural or functional defect, and many of these need special care and treatment to survive and thrive. Such defects can be inherited, arise through exposure to altered conditions or compounds in the womb, or result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Since the 1940s, animal experiments and epidemiological studies have identified many environmental factors that can cause particular birth defects. More recently, advances in genomics have allowed a simple genetic diagnosis in ∼ 30% of birth defects. However, the cause of the remainder is a mystery. I believe that a key limiter to successful identification of new environmental factors is that clinicians, epidemiologists and developmental biologists all approach the topic from different angles. I propose that better communication between such experts will further increase our understanding of the environmental causes of birth defects, and potentially reduce their global burden.
The protective effect of metformin against testicular damage in diabetes and prostate cancer model
Authors: Koroglu Aydın Pınar , Karabulut ‐Bulan Omur , Bugan Ilknur , Turkyilmaz Ismet Burcu , Altun Seyhan , Yanardag Refiye
Published: November 2021

Individuals with diabetes have an increased risk of breast, colorectal, pancreatic and prostate cancer. Metformin, an oral biguanide used to treat diabetes, has anti‐hyperglycaemic, anti‐hyperinsulinemic and antioxidant activities. The effects of metformin on testicular tissue damage in cancer and diabetic + cancer rat models were evaluated histologically, immunohistochemically and biochemically. The diabetic model was produced in Copenhagen rats using a single dose of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg), while prostate cancer was induced through subcutaneous inoculation of 2 × 104 Mat‐LyLu cells into the animals. At the end of the experimental period, testicular tissues with a close functional relationship to the prostate were collected. Histological evaluation found moderate to severe damage to testes following the diabetes and cancer process. Histopathological and biochemical impairments were observed in the early stage of prostate cancer, which were increased in the diabetic animals. Metformin administration reversed these injuries and provided substantial protection of the testes. In particular, metformin had protective effects on tissue damage, apoptosis, oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity. This suggests that metformin should be further investigated as a targeted protective drug against prostate cancer‐related damage to the testes.
Fluorine Doping Induced Crystal Space Change and Performance Improvement of Single Crystalline LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 Layered Cathode Materials
Authors: Huang Xiao , Zhang Pengfei , Liu Zhaofeng , Ma Ben , Zhou Yingke , Tian Xiaohui
Published: November 2021

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. Yingke Zhou from the Institute of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, State Key Laboratory of Refractories and Metallurgy, Wuhan University of Science and Technology (China). The cover picture shows the improvement of high‐nickel single crystal LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 layered cathode materials by the controllable fluorine doping. The doped single crystal material shows excellent Li‐insertion performance and has potential for application in power batteries. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.202100756.
Stereotactic body radiation therapy for primary liver tumors: An effective liver‐directed therapy in the toolbox
Authors: Roberts Hannah J. , Wo Jennifer Y.
Published: November 2021

The use of radiation for primary liver cancers has historically been limited because of the risk of radiation‐induced liver disease. Treatment fields have become more conformal because of several technical advances, and this has allowed for dose escalation. Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), also known as stereotactic ablative radiotherapy, is now able to safely treat liver tumors to ablative doses while sparing functional liver parenchyma by using highly conformal therapy. Several retrospective and small prospective studies have examined the use of SBRT for liver cancers; however, there is a lack of well‐powered randomized studies to definitively guide management in these settings. Recent advances in systemic therapy for primary liver cancers have improved outcomes; however, the optimal selection criteria for SBRT as a local therapy remain unclear among other liver‐directed options such as radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, and radioembolization.
Association between body composition and chemotherapy‐related toxicity in children with lymphoma and rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Wadhwa Aman , Adams Kandice M. , Dai Chen , Richman Joshua S. , McDonald Andrew M. , Williams Grant R. , Bhatia Smita
Published: November 2021

Background

Body composition is associated with chemotherapy toxicity (chemotoxicity) in adults with cancer; this association remains unexplored in children with cancer.

Methods

Using baseline computed tomography scans of 107 children with Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 45), non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 42), or rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 20), this study examined body composition (skeletal muscle index [SMI], skeletal muscle density [SMD], and height‐adjusted total adipose tissue [hTAT]) to determine its association with chemotoxicity. Clinical characteristics and chemotoxicities were abstracted from medical records. Primary outcomes included grade 4 or higher hematologic toxicities and grade 3 or higher nonhematologic toxicities within 6 months of the diagnosis. Logistic regression models accounting for repeated measures were constructed to examine the association between body composition indices and chemotoxicities; adjustments were made for age at diagnosis, sex, race/ethnicity, cancer type, risk group, body mass index (measured as a percentile), or body surface area.

Results

The median SMI was 41.0 cm2/m2 (range, 25.8‐68.6 cm2/m2), the median SMD was 54.1 HU (range, 35‐69.4 HU), and the median hTAT was 19.5 cm2/m2 (range, 0‐226.7 cm2/m2). Grade 4 or higher hematologic toxicities and grade 3 or higher nonhematologic toxicities were observed in 74.7% and 66.3% of the chemotherapy cycles, respectively. A higher SMD at diagnosis was associated with lower odds of grade 4 or higher hematologic toxicity (odds ratio [OR], 0.90; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.85‐0.97; P = .004). SMI (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.95‐1.04; P = .7) and hTAT (OR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.99‐1.01; P = .9) were not associated with hematologic toxicities. Nonhematologic toxicities did not show any association with body composition.

Conclusions

The association between low SMD and hematologic toxicities in children with lymphoma or rhabdomyosarcoma could be due to body composition–based biodistribution of chemotherapeutic agents and needs further investigation.

Lay Summary

Body composition at cancer diagnosis in children with lymphoma and rhabdomyosarcoma may provide information that could identify those at risk for serious side effects from chemotherapy.

Routinely used measures such as body mass index and body surface area show poor correlations with body composition assessed via computed tomography scans.
Stability of biomaterials used in adjunct to coronally advanced flap: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Panda Sourav , Khijmatgar Shahnawaz , Arbildo‐Vega Heber , Das Abhaya Chandra , Kumar Manoj , Das Mohit , Mancini Leonardo , Del Fabbro Massimo
Published: November 2021

Aim

The objective of this network meta‐analysis was to rank different biomaterials used in adjunct to coronally advanced flap (CAF), based on their performance in root‐coverage for Miller's Class I and II gingival recessions.

Materials and methods

An electronic database search was carried out in PUBMED, CENTRAL, SCOPUS, and EMBASE to identify the eligible articles and compiled into the citation manager to remove the duplicates. The primary outcome was keratinized gingival tissue width (KGW) and percentage of root coverage (%RC). The treatment effect of different biomaterials was estimated using predictive interval plots and ranked based on biomaterials performance, using multidimensional scale ranking.

Results

CAF + connective tissue graft (CTG), CAF + platelet concentrate matrix (PCM) and acellular dermal matrix (ADM) ranked at the top positions in performance in improving KGW. The highest ranked materials in improving percentage of root coverage in gingival recession were CAF + collagen matrix (CM) + gingival fibroblasts (GF), CAF + ADM + platelet rich plasma (PRP) and CAF + ADM, as compared to CAF alone.

Conclusion

CTG, ADM, platelet concentrates, and CM + GFs, when used in adjunct to CAF, showed improved stability over ≥12 months of follow‐up, better percentage of root coverage, and improved keratinized gingival width.
Preparation of Practical High‐Performance Electrodes for Acidic and Alkaline Media Water Electrolysis
Authors: Moon Gun‐hee , Wang Yue , Kim Seongseop , Budiyanto Eko , Tüysüz Harun
Published: November 2021

The synthesis of electrocatalyst and the electrode preparation were merged into a one‐step process and proved to be a versatile method to synthesize metal oxide electrocatalysts on the conductive carbon paper (CP). Very simply, the metal precursor deposited on the CP was thermally treated by a torch‐gun for just 6 s, resulting in the formation of RuO2, Co3O4, and mixed oxide nanoparticles. The material could be directly used as working electrode for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Compared with commercial and other state‐of‐the‐art electrocatalysts, the fabricated electrode showed a superior electrocatalytic activity for OER in 1 mHClO4and 1 mKOH in terms of not only a low overpotential to reach 10 mA cm−2but also a high current density at 1.6 VRHEwith satisfying a long‐term stability. The novel strategy without requiring time‐consuming and uneconomical steps could be expanded to the preparation of various metal oxides on conductive substrates towards diverse electrocatalytic applications.
Triple‐Phase Boundary in Anion‐Exchange Membrane Reactor Enables Selective Electrosynthesis of Aldehyde from Primary Alcohol
Authors: Ido Yuto , Fukazawa Atsushi , Furutani Yuka , Sato Yasushi , Shida Naoki , Atobe Mahito
Published: November 2021

Invited for this month′s cover is the group of Prof. Mahito Atobe at Yokohama National University, Japan. The image shows an anion‐exchange membrane (AEM) reactor enabling selective oxidation of a primary alcohol to a corresponding aldehyde by the electrochemical reaction at the triple‐phase boundary. The Communication itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202102076.
Explaining reinforcement and erroneous beliefs in pathological exercise: A commentary and expansion on Coniglio et al. (in press) using the pathways model of disordered gambling
Authors: Tabri Nassim , Wohl Michael J. A.
Published: November 2021

Coniglio, Cooper, and Selby proposed that behavioral reinforcement may be critical for understanding the etiology and maintenance of pathological exercise among people living with anorexia nervosa. They presented three competing hypotheses about why exercise can become problematic: (a) positive reinforcement via biological and behavioral rewards, (b) negative reinforcement via avoidance of aversive states, or (c) a synergistic interplay between positive and negative reinforcement. Herein, we extend Coniglio and colleagues' framework by drawing on theory and research from the field of disordered gambling—a behavior in which reinforcement is an etiological and maintaining mechanism. We applied the pathways model of disordered gambling to the study of pathological exercise and made the following two proposals. First, pathological exercise may be driven by positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, or both (they are not mutually exclusive), depending on the presence or absence of specific co‐occurring psychopathologies. Second, erroneous beliefs about the safety and efficacy of maladaptive exercise for weight control may help maintain pathological exercise regardless of the type of reinforcement. We conclude by calling for research that assesses Coniglio and colleagues' novel hypotheses and our supposition that the pathways model can help provide a framework for those hypotheses.
Li+ Solvation Mediated Interfacial Kinetic of Alloying Matrix for Stable Li Anodes
Authors: Wang Xingyi , Luo Kailin , Xiong Lixin , Xiong Tengpeng , Li Zhendong , Sun Jie , He Haiyong , Ouyang Chuying , Peng Zhe
Published: November 2021

Severe lithium (Li) dendrite growth caused by the uneven overpotential deposition is a formidable challenge for high energy density Li metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, we investigate a synergetic interfacial kinetic to regulate Li deposition behavior and stabilize Li metal anode. Through constructing Li alloying matrix with a bi‐functional silver (Ag)‐Li3N blended interface, fast Li+ conductivity and high Li affinity can be achieved simultaneously, resulting in both decreased Li nucleation and mass transfer‐controlled overpotentials. Beyond these properties, a more important feature is demonstrated herein; that is, the inward diffusion depth of the Li adatoms inside of the Ag site can be restricted by the Li+ solvation structure in a highly coordinating environment. The latter feature can ensure the durability of the operational Ag sites, thereby elongating the Li protection ability of the Ag‐Li3N interface greatly. This work provides a deep insight into the synergetic effect of functional alloying structure and Li+ solvation mediated interfacial kinetic on Li metal protection.
Microporous Cyclodextrin Film with Funnel‐type Channel Polymerized on Electrospun Cellulose Acetate Membrane as Separators for Strong Trapping Polysulfides and Boosting Charging in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wu Shuanglin , Shi Jiayi , Nie Xiaolin , Yao Yingmei , Jiang Feng , Wei Qufu , Huang Fenglin
Published: November 2021

The “shuttle effect” of polysulfides hampers the commercialization of lithium–sulfur (Li‐S) batteries. Here, a thin molecular sieve film was decorated on the surface of an electrospun cellulose acetate (CA) membrane derived from recycled cigarette filters, where the truncated cone structure β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) was selected as the building block to physically block and chemically trap polysulfides while simultaneously dramatically speeding up ion transport. Furthermore, on the β‐CD free side of the separator facing the cathode, graphite carbon (C) was sputtered as an upper current collector, which barely increases the thickness. These benefits result in an initial discharge performance of 1378.24 mAh g−1 and long‐term cycling stability of 863.78 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 0.2 C for the battery with the β‐CD/CA/C separator, which is more than three times that of the PP separator after 500 cycles. Surprisingly, the funnel‐type channel of β‐CD generates a differential ionic fluid pressure on both sides, speeding up ion transport by up to 69%, and a 65.3% faster charging rate of 9484 mA g−1 was achieved. The “funnel effect” of a separator is regarded as a novel and high‐efficiency solution for fast charging of Li‐S and other lithium secondary batteries.
Bis(amido)diazadiarsetidinide and Amido(imino)arsenide Complexes of Divalent Metals
Authors: Ritter Christian , von Hänisch Carsten
Published: November 2021

The Mg and Ca complexes of the tert‐butyl substituted bis(amido)diazadiarsetidinides [{(tBuNAs)2(tBuN)2}M(thf)2] (M=Mg (1), Ca (6)) were prepared by addition of nBu‐secBuMg or [{(p‐tBu)(C6H4)CH2}2Ca] to [(tBuNAs)2(tBuNH)2] (Ia). Upon evaporation of coordinating THF, 1 is selectively converted to the amido(imino)arsenide complex [Mg{As(NtBu)2}2] (2) whereas 6 decomposes to several products under these conditions. Hydrolysis of 2 with H2O yields the hitherto unknown compound As(NHtBu)3 (3) whereas hydrolysis of Ia leads to the formation of the oxygen bridged bis(amidodiazadiarsetidine) [O{(tBuNH)(tBuNAs)2}2] (4). Reaction of 2 with 3 yields the heteroleptic Mg complex with an amido(imino)arsenide and a bis(amido)diazadiarsetidinide ligand [{(tBuNAs)2(NHtBu)(NtBu)}Mg{As(NtBu)2}] (5). The homologous Ca compound (7) was obtained by conversion of Ia with Ca(hmds)2 (hmds=N(SiMe3)2). Finally, the tetrylene complexes [E{(tBuNAs)2(tBuN)2}] (E=Ge (8), Sn (9), Pb (10)) were prepared by either conversion of Ia with E(hmds)2 for E=Sn, Pb or by addition of the dichlorides of Ge and Sn to [(tBuNAs)2(tBuNLi)2] (Ib). All compounds were characterised by NMR and IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and single crystal x‐ray diffraction for 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 10.
Aqueous Zirconium‐MOF Synthesis Assisted by α‐Cyclodextrin: Towards Deeper Understanding of the Beneficial Role of Cyclodextrin
Authors: Hoyez Guillaume , Rousseau Cyril , Rousseau Jolanta , Saitzek Sébastien , Ponchel Anne , Monflier Eric
Published: November 2021

A series of isoreticular zirconium‐organic frameworks based on the UiO‐66 family have been synthesized through a co‐modulated hydrothermal method. Our synthetic approach relies on the use of α‐cyclodextrin to co‐modulate the textural properties of the UiO‐66 analogues. We have undertaken a systematic study aiming at exploring how the addition of α‐CD to the reaction mixture can affect or not the properties of UiO‐66 Zr‐MOFs, choosing various substituted benzene‐1,4‐dicarboxylic acids and pyridine‐2,5‐dicarboxylic acid as representative organic linkers. The proportion of α‐CD with respect to each ligand can be easily tuned during synthesis, and depending on the chemical structure of the ligands, the oligosaccharide is found to substantially impact the characteristics of the UiO‐66 derivatives. A rationale is proposed to explain the crucial role that α‐CD plays, considering that one of the key parameters is the water solubility of the organic linkers.
Double‐Headed Nucleotides with Increased Base‐Pairing Affinity and Specificity
Authors: Beck Kasper M. , Pham Robert L. , Nanim Rita A. , Laustsen Anders , Nielsen Poul
Published: November 2021

Double‐headed nucleotides, i. e., nucleotides that hold two nucleobases each, have been shown to be double‐functional in DNA duplexes by forming two sets of Watson−Crick base pairs, and thus mimicking dinucleotides. Herein, we present three new double‐headed nucleotides, UT+, UA+ and UClU, with the non‐natural nucleobases 5‐(3‐aminopropynyl)uracil (T+), 7‐(3‐aminopropynyl)‐7‐deazaadenine (A+) and 5‐chlorouracil (ClU) attached to the 2′‐position of arabinouridine via a methylene‐linker. With extended π‐systems and amino groups for electrostatic interaction with the DNA backbone, incorporation of UT+ and UA+ increased duplex stability compared to their unmodified predecessors, UT and UA. For UT+, discrimination of mismatches was slightly improved compared to UT, whereas this was not the case for UA+. The UClU analogue also increased duplex stability compared to UT and provided better mismatch discrimination than both UT and UT+. Thereby it represents the leading bis‐uracil double‐headed nucleotide analogue.
Oxidation of ethylene glycol: Unity of chemical and electrochemical catalysis
Authors: Chauhan Nilam L. , Juvekar Vinay A. , Sarkar Arindam
Published: November 2021

The catalytic oxidation of ethylene glycol, both chemically (reaction with oxygen) and electrochemically (application of potential), have been studied in a batch reactor on three different catalysts. The products have been identified and their concentrations measured. For experiments on chemical oxidation, in addition to the analysis of the products, the variation of the potential developed on the catalyst with time was measured. The electrochemical experiments were designed such that the potential of the catalyst‐coated electrode varies with time in a manner identical to variation of the potential with time observed for chemical experiments. The products and their respective concentrations obtained for both the chemical oxidation of ethylene glycol with molecular oxygen as well as the electrochemical oxidation were found to be in excellent agreement. The data presented here suggest that at molecular level, catalytic chemical oxidation on heterogeneous catalyst involves transfer of electrons from ethylene glycol to oxygen via two or more electrochemical reactions through the catalyst.
High‐Rate and Long‐Life Au Nanorods/LiFePO4 Composite Cathode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Xinyue , Chen Chi , Wu Shaoping , Zheng Hongpeng , Chen Yujie , Liu Hezhou , Wu Yongming , Duan Huanan
Published: November 2021

LiFePO4 is considered a promising cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries for its high theoretical specific capacity and cycling stability. However, low electrical conductivity and Li‐ion diffusion coefficient limit its electrochemical performances. Herein, gold nanorods (Au NRs) with a length of about 40 nm (aspect ratio of 7:1) are successfully prepared by a seed‐mediated growth method. LiFePO4 composite cathodes with 0.1/0.5/1 wt% Au NRs are compared with a pristine LiFePO4 cathode, which shows that the addition of Au NRs can improve the electron and lithium‐ion transport. Specifically, the addition of 1 wt% Au NRs increases the electrical conductivity and lithium‐ion diffusion coefficient to 1.99 S cm−1 and 1.32 × 10−14 cm2 s−1, respectively. The distribution of relaxation times analysis is carried out for the electrochemical impedance spectrum data to distinguish different electrochemical reactions within corresponding frequency regions. Particularly, LiFePO4 with 0.1 wt% Au NRs exhibits a superior rate capability (133.7 mAh g−1 at 2C and 91.9 mAh g−1 at 5C) and stable cycling performance.
Novel Hybrid Control Scheme of a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Air Supply System
Authors: Tian Ying , Zou Qiang , Liu Jiaqi , Han Jin
Published: November 2021

A hybrid control scheme of the fuel cell air supply system based on model predictive control (MPC) and proportional integral differential (PID) control is proposed for adjusting the oxygen excess ratio at a given setpoint in this paper. In the proposed scheme, the cooperative control of air compressor and back pressure valve in the fuel cell air supply system is realized by MPC. When the system is in steady state under the MPC, PID is introduced, so that the steady‐state error, which is caused by the mismatch between the control model in MPC and the controlled system during MPC control, can be eliminated. To reduce the mismatch between the control model and the controlled air supply system, back propagation neural network and look‐up table method based on bilinear interpolation are used to calculate the output air flow rate and efficiency of the air compressor in the air supply system. Simulation results show that the proposed control scheme has a better performance compared with proportional integral control, active disturbance rejection control, and single MPC. In addition, the proposed control scheme also shows good fault tolerance in the case of air supply system failure.
Effect of dietary inclusion of Fireweed (Crassocephalum crepidioides) on behavioural patterns, memory indices, and activities of cholinergic and monoaminergic enzymes in a fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Oboh Ganiyu , Busari Gbemisola Margaret , Ademosun Ayokunle Olubode , Oyeleye Sunday Idowu
Published: November 2021

Dietary supplementation of functional foods has been established for cognitive enhancement. Fireweed (Crassocephalum crepidioides) is a notable vegetable reported in folklore for its anti‐neurodegenerative property, with paucity of information on its mechanism of action using a cell‐based system. This study sought to evaluate the effect of fireweed leaf dietary inclusion (FDI) on some biochemical indices of neurodegeneration of a fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Transgenic (modeled for AD) and Harwich (the wild control) fruit fly strains were used, and were exposed separately to 0%, 0.31%, 0.63%, 1.25%, and 2.50% FDI for 14 days. Survival rate, locomotive performance, and short‐term memory index of the flies were assessed. Thereafter, the flies’ homogenates were prepared and used for the determination of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and monoamine oxidase (MAO), catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione S‐transferase activities, total thiol, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) levels. The result revealed that AD flies treated with FDI had 70%–80% improved survival rate and behavioural performance. Furthermore, AChE, BChE, and MAO activities were significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited, while antioxidant status was also boosted in the AD flies comparable with the wild control flies. In conclusion, the modulation of cholinesterases and monoamine oxidase activities as well as oxidative stress biomarkers could be among the neuroprotective mechanisms of fireweed leaf. These effects could be attributed to the abundant polyphenols and dietary fibers present. Hence, its use in folklore for the management of neurological disorder is justified.
The effect of lactic acid bacteria and co‐culture on structural, rheological, and textural profile of corn dough
Authors: Yaqoob Sanabil , Liu Huimin , Liu Meihong , Zheng Mingzhu , Awan Kanza Aziz , Cai Dan , Liu Jingsheng
Published: November 2021

This study is aimed at assessing the effect of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on corn flour using dynamic characterization methods including RVA, TPA, Rheometer, SEM, and DSC along with co‐culture technique in order to enhance its applicability by evaluating the variations in rheological, textural, morphological, thermal, and structural properties. Our findings suggested that bacterial incorporation both individually and in combination (co‐culture) revealed an improved corn dough profile with better properties. SEM showed irregular shape of particles having more grooves, indentations, and cracks. RVA demonstrated different pasting behavior on the dough. Bacterial inoculation in flour attributed to increase the TO (68.61–71.18), TP (73.74–78.42), TC (78.78–85.36), melting temperature (10.17–15.19), and ΔH (2.72–5.40). The hardness of corn was found approximately 75% of native dough. In treated corn, an increase was noted in both loss and storage modulus in correspondence with changes in the starch configuration and leaching of constituents. The results from DSC presented an increased melting temperature range and gelatinization enthalpy owing to bacterial treatment accredited to diversified morphological characteristics. The outcomes concluded in demonstration of a novel influence on structural, thermal, morphological, and rheological capabilities and capacities of corn dough. Lactic acid bacteria hydrolyzed part of the corn and flour had smaller, irregularly shaped particles with more holes in them, resulting in a reduced water retaining capacity. Textural, thermal, and pasting profile has also been improved due to degradation of macromolecules. Furthermore, the insight alterations induce various changes leading to improved corn flour. It may also develop the associations about the upright insurgence in the corn dough profile and its potential usage in industry and homes.
Effect of Moringa stenopetala leaf extracts on the physicochemical characteristics and sensory properties of lagered beer
Authors: Mazengia Gedefaw , Dessalegn Engeda , Dessalegn Tilku
Published: November 2021

Flavor instability resulting from beer storage and oxidation is the most important quality‐related problem in the brewing industry. This study evaluated the influence of adding 80% ethanolic extract of Moringa stenopetala leaf to lagered beer at 400, 600, and 800 ppm concentrations for 30‐, 60‐, and 90‐day storage time at room temperature. The effect of physicochemical properties of the beer incorporated with leaf extract of Moringa stenopetala (LEMS) was evaluated using the American Society of Brewing Chemists method of analysis. Sensory acceptability of the beer treated with LEMS was evaluated using nine hedonic scales over a period of storage time. Original gravity (11.06–11.08), apparent extract (3.68–3.77), pH (4.23–4.40), vicinal diketone (0.07–0.09), and alcohol content (4.76–4.81) were not altered by the incorporation of LEMS at any level of treatment and over a period of storage time. The beer color (8.88–9.70 EBC), bitterness (13.62–15.56 bitterness unit), calcium ion (44.18–52.04 ppm), and foam stability (201.5–246.5) of beer increased with increasing LEMS concentration, but a significant haziness reduction (1.23–0.63) was observed. However, the storage time decreased both haziness and foam stability of LEMS‐incorporated beer. The incorporation of LEMS at an optimum level kept its quality for 90 days better than the usual antioxidant (potassium metabisulfite) added in beer. The sensory analysis also supported the beer treated with 600 ppm of LEMS as the best overall acceptability. The result indicates a promising use of LEMS as a functional ingredient in beer to reduce beer oxidation probability and keep its freshness for a period of storage time.
Examining the relationship between talent management and employee job‐related outcomes: The case of the Indian manufacturing industry
Authors: Dalal Renu , Akdere Mesut
Published: November 2021

This study examined the relationship between talent management (TM) and employee job‐related outcomes in the Indian manufacturing setting. TM practices included talent acquisition, talent development, talent engagement, and talent retention. Employee job‐related outcomes of this study included intent to stay, job engagement, affective commitment, job satisfaction, and employee competency. This study used the social exchange theory and a resource‐based view as the theoretical underpinnings for the proposed TM model. The role of organizational culture as a moderator was also examined in the study. The sample of the study consisted of 992 full‐time employees working in one of the largest textiles and paper manufacturing organizations of India with facilities located in two Indian states. Data were collected online through a questionnaire composed of several existing survey instruments. The response rate for the survey was high (62.98%). The primary method of data analysis was structural equation modeling. The overall relationship between TM and employee job‐related outcome was found to be significant and positive. The findings showed that organizational culture is significantly related to TM and employee job‐related outcomes. In addition, organizational culture does moderate the relationship between TM and employee job‐related outcomes.
Why play equals learning: Comparison as a learning mechanism in play
Authors: Christie Stella
Published: November 2021

Play is an essential component of childhood, but parents and educators sometimes view it as an optional add‐on, which gets in the way of learning. This view persists in spite of evidence that play is helpful and sometimes critical to learning in multiple domains, perhaps because precise mechanisms whereby play occasions learning are not well understood. Here, I propose a new research perspective on playful learning, which might fill this gap, and solidify our understanding of both play and learning: a focus on comparison and structural alignment. Comparison (and structural alignment, which highlights useful comparisons) is a well‐studied learning mechanism, and it occurs often during free and guided play. Do we learn through play because we compare during play? I briefly summarize the learning benefits of comparison and sketch the ways in which play may trigger comparison. I then list several concrete research questions, through which we may inspect the role of comparison in mediating between play and learning.
LncRNA CCAT1 is overexpressed in tuberculosis patients and predicts their survival
Authors: Ye Taosheng , Zhang Jiaohong , Zeng Xuan , Xu Yuxiang , Li Jinpei
Published: November 2021

Introduction

LncRNA CCAT1 promotes inflammatory responses, which contribute to tuberculosis. Therefore, CCAT1 may participate in tuberculosis. Therefore, we analyzed the involvement of CCAT1 in tuberculosis.

Methods

Plasma samples were donated by a total of 200 patients with newly developed tuberculosis (N‐TB), 102 patients with recurrent tuberculosis (R‐TB), and 102 healthy controls on the day of admission. Plasma samples were also collected from N‐TB and R‐TB patients every month after the initiation of treatment for a total of 6 months. CCAT1 expression in these samples was detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Levels of IFN‐γ, IL‐1β, iNOS, TNF‐α, and IL‐10 in plasma were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. N‐TB and R‐TB patients were monitored for 2 months to analyze their survival.

Results

On the day of admission, the highest levels of CCAT1, IFN‐γ, IL‐1β, iNOS, and TNF‐α were detected in N‐TB patients, followed by R‐TB patients and controls, while the lowest levels of plasma IL‐10 were detected in N‐TB patients, followed by R‐TB patients and controls. Across R‐TB and N‐TB patients, CCAT1 was inversely correlated with IL‐10 but not closely correlated with other inflammatory factors. During the treatment, plasma CCAT1 levels decreased in both N‐TB and R‐TB patients. High CCAT1 levels were closely correlated with high mortality rates of both N‐TB and R‐TB patients.

Conclusion

CCAT1 is overexpressed in tuberculosis patients and predicts their survival. Its function in tuberculosis may be related to IL‐10.
Development of mucoadhesive modified kappa‐carrageenan/pectin patches for controlled delivery of drug in the buccal cavity
Authors: Özkahraman Bengi , Özbaş Zehra , Yaşayan Gökçen , Akgüner Zeynep Püren , Yarımcan Filiz , Alarçin Emine , Bal‐Öztürk Ayça
Published: November 2021

In this study, modified kappa‐carrageenan/pectin hydrogel patches were fabricated for treatment of buccal fungal infections. For this purpose, kappa‐carrageenan‐g‐acrylic acid was modified with different thiolated agents (L‐cysteine and 3‐mercaptopropionic acid), and the thiol content of the resulting modified kappa‐carrageenan was confirmed by elemental analyzer. Then, the hydrogel patches were fabricated, and characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, ex vivo mucoadhesion test, and swelling behavior. Triamcinolone acetonide was added either directly or by encapsulating within the poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanoparticles. The release amount of the drug from the directly loaded patch was 7.81 mg/g polymer, while it was 3.28 mg/g polymer for the encapsulated patch with the same content at 7 hr. The hydrogel patches had no cytotoxicity by cell culture studies. Finally, the drug loaded hydrogel patches were demonstrated antifungal activity against Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus flavus. These results provide that the novel modified kappa‐carrageenan and pectin based buccal delivery system has promising antifungal property, and could have advantages compared to conventional buccal delivery systems.
In vivo evaluation of bone regeneration behavior of novel β‐tricalcium phosphate/layered double hydroxide nanocomposite granule as bone graft substitutes
Authors: Eskandari Neda , Shafiei Seyedeh Sara , Dehghan Mohammad Mehdi , Farzad‐Mohajeri Saeed
Published: November 2021

This study was based on in vivo assessment of bone regeneration capacity of synthesized porous β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) nanocomposite granules and aimed to explore the effects of fabricated β‐TCP granules reinforced with layered double hydroxides (LDH) nanoclay compared to β‐TCP granules, in terms of osteoconductivity and biodegradability. Granules with diameters of 2–3 mm were implanted into cavities drilled in rabbit distal femur and were left in situ for up to 3 months. The mechanical study demonstrated that the presence of LDH nanoparticles in β‐TCP granules resulted in a significant increase in compressive modulus from 174.4 to 231.4 MPa, while the porosity was constant at 76%–80%. The results revealed that the obtained granules showed no cytotoxicity. In this study, x‐ray radiographic, micro‐computed tomography, and histological staining analysis were taken to evaluate the percentage of bone ingrowth and biodegradability of the porous granules. The results exhibited that both granules support bone regeneration and also the amount of new bone formation in the bone defect filled with both granules was almost six times higher than the empty defects. Although no significant difference in bone formation for two different granules was observed, a higher biodegradability was detected in β‐TCP granules in comparison to β‐TCP/LDH granules. Overall, the addition of LDH nanoclay (10%) enhanced the physicochemical and mechanical properties of β‐TCP granules while it is biological and osteoconductity properties have been maintained and its biodegradation rate has been decreased.
Rapid reduction in triglyceride levels by therapeutic plasma exchange in patients with hypertriglyceridemic pancreatitis
Authors: Chen Zhu , Huang Xiaolong , Zhang Minwei , Han Na , Ning Yaogui
Published: November 2021

Objective

To investigate the effect of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) on lowering triglyceride (TG) levels in patients with hypertriglyceridemic pancreatitis (HLAP).

Methods

The TG‐lowering in patients with HLAP was compared between the TPE group and conservative treatment group (non‐TPE). The primary outcome was TG reduction to less than 500 mg/dL within 48 hours.

Results

The primary outcome was significantly correlated with TPE (univariate analysis odds ratio [OR] 2.74; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30‐5.79, P = .008; multivariate analysis OR 3.03; 95% CI 1.28‐7.19, P = .012). At 24 and 48 hours, conservative treatment resulted in a 48.24% and 70.44% reduction in TG, while TPE resulted in a 70.91% and 76.39% reduction in TG, respectively. A more rapid decrease of in TGs in a short period was clearly associated with TPE (P < .001 for interaction). After 72 hours, the TGs decreased by approximately 77% in both groups, with no significant difference (P = .563). There was no difference between groups in clinical outcomes over the acute time period or over the longer term.

Conclusions

In patients with HLAP, TPE resulted in a short‐term and rapid reduction in plasma TG concentrations, with no significant advantage over non‐TPE after 72 hours.
Prognostic factors and combined use of tocilizumab and corticosteroids in a Spanish cohort of elderly COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Duarte‐Millán Miguel A. , Mesa‐Plaza Nieves , Guerrero‐Santillán Marta , Morales‐Ortega Alejandro , Bernal‐Bello David , Farfán‐Sedano Ana I. , García de Viedma‐García Vanessa , Velázquez‐Ríos Laura , Frutos‐Pérez Begoña , De Ancos‐Aracil Cristina L. , Soria Fernández‐Llamazares Guillermo , Toledano‐Macías María , Cristóbal‐Bilbao Rafael , Luquín‐Ciuro Nuria , Marrero‐Francés Jorge , Piedrabuena‐García Sara I. , Satué‐Bartolomé José A. , Gonzalo‐Pascua Sonia , Rivilla‐Jiménez Marta , Carpintero‐García Lorena , Ayala‐Larrañaga Ibone , García‐Bermúdez Virginia , Lara‐Montes Celia , Llerena‐Riofrío Álvaro R. , RIvas‐Prado Luis , Walter Stefan , Escriba‐Barcena Almudena , San Martín López Juan V. , Ruíz‐Giardín José M.
Published: November 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection in elderly patients is more aggressive and treatments have shown limited efficacy. Our objective is to describe the clinical course and to analyze the prognostic factors associated with a higher risk of mortality of a cohort of patients older than 80 years. In addition, we assess the efficacy of immunosuppressive treatments in this population. We analyzed the data from 163 patients older than 80 years admitted to our institution for COVID‐19, during March and April 2020. A Lasso regression model and subsequent multivariate Cox regression were performed to select variables predictive of death. We evaluated the efficacy of immunomodulatory therapy in three cohorts using adjusted survival analysis. The mortality rate was 43%. The mean age was 85.2 years. The disease was considered severe in 76.1% of the cases. Lasso regression and multivariate Cox regression indicated that factors correlated with hospital mortality were: age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.12, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.22), alcohol consumption (HR 3.15, 95% CI: 1.27–7.84), CRP > 10 mg/dL (HR 2.67, 95% CI: 1.36–5.24), and oxygen support with Venturi Mask (HR 6.37, 95% CI: 2.18–18.62) or reservoir (HR 7.87, 95% CI: 3.37–18.38). Previous treatment with antiplatelets was the only protective factor (HR 0.47, 95% CI: 0.23–0.96). In the adjusted treatment efficacy analysis, we found benefit in the combined use of tocilizumab (TCZ) and corticosteroids (CS) (HR 0.09, 95% CI: 0.01–0.74) compared to standard treatment, with no benefit of CS alone (HR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.53–1.71). Hospitalized elderly patients suffer from a severe and often fatal form of COVID‐19 disease. In this regard, several parameters might identify high‐risk patients upon admission. Combined use of TCZ and CS could improve survival.
Anthropogenic influence on compound dry and hot events in China based on Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 models
Authors: Wu Xinying , Hao Zengchao , Zhang Yu , Zhang Xuan , Hao Fanghua
Published: November 2021

Compared to individual dry or hot events, compound dry and hot events (CDHEs) usually pose more severe economic and societal impacts. A growing body of literature investigates the role of anthropogenic forcing on variations of individual dry and hot events at different spatial scales. However, the attribution of CDHEs in China using model simulations from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) has received little attention. This study investigates the anthropogenic influence on CDHEs during summer in China and projects their future occurrences using CMIP6 simulations with data from the Climatic Research Unit (CRU) as observations. The results show that large regions of China experienced a significantly increased frequency of CDHEs during 1971–2010 relative to 1931–1970, which is overall captured by the CMIP6 simulations. Anthropogenic forcing is shown to contribute to the high likelihood of CDHEs in recent decades over most parts of China, with remarkable contributions in southwestern regions. Under future socioeconomic development scenarios, these CDHEs are projected to become more frequent in 2021–2100, which will increase by approximately 51.56–55.00% on average compared to that in 1931–2010. This study could aid the development of mitigation strategies of CDHEs across China under global warming.
Association Between Insurance Type and Outcomes of Reconstructive Head and Neck Cancer Surgery
Authors: Liu Derek H. , Yu Alison J. , Ding Li , Swanson Mark S.
Published: November 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Although the benefits of expanding health insurance coverage are clear, there are limited studies comparing the different types of insurance. This study aims to determine the association between insurance type and outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing reconstructive surgery in the United States.

Methods

Population‐based cross‐sectional study of the 2012–2014 National Inpatient Sample. We identified 1,314 patients with head and neck cancers undergoing tumor ablative surgery followed by pedicled or free flap reconstruction of oncologic defects. Insurance type was classified as private, Medicare, Medicaid, self‐pay, or other. The primary outcome was extended length of stay (LOS), defined as greater than 14 days, which represented the 75th percentile of the study sample. Secondary outcomes included acute medical complications, surgical complications, morbidities, and costs. Analyses were adjusted for gender, geographic location, and various medical comorbidities.

Results

In univariate analysis, insurance type was associated with extended LOS (P = .001), medical complications (P = <.001), and mortalities (P = .020). After controlling for other covariates in the multivariate analysis, compared to private insurance, Medicare and Medicaid were both associated with significantly higher odds of extended LOS (adjusted odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 1.73 [1.09–2.76] and 2.22 [1.38–3.58], respectively). Medicare was associated with significantly higher odds of medical complications, but Medicaid was not (adjusted OR [95% CI] = 1.53 [1.02–2.31] and 1.64 [0.97–2.78], respectively).

Conclusions

Medicaid and Medicare were independently associated with extended LOS after reconstructive head and neck cancer surgery. Medicare was associated with higher rates of medical complications. Efforts to address LOS should target care planning and coordination.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 132:1946–1952, 2022
Land and water conservation technologies for building carbon positive villages in India
Authors: Srinivasarao Cherukumalli , Jasti Venkata Naga Satya Prasad , Kondru Venkateswara Rao , Bathineni Vibhajam Sagal Kiran , Mudigiri Ranjith , Venati Girija Veni , Priyadarshini Priya , Abhilash Purushothaman Chirakkuzhyil , Chaudhari Suresh Kumar
Published: November 2021

Continuous and unabated land degradation in India is a threat to agricultural sustainability while increasing temperatures, changing rainfall patterns and precipitation intensification are going to further aggravate degradation in future. The timely adoption of integrated land and water conservation technologies minimises erosion and provides significant adaptation and mitigation co‐benefits. The objectives of this study were to assess the mitigation potential of soil and water conservation technologies and also the feasibility of making villages carbon positive. The extent of minimisation of soil loss due to soil conservation technologies ranges from 0.10 to 21.65 Mg ha−1 yr−1, while carbon emissions minimised range from 0.73 to 158.77 kg ha−1 yr−1. Emission minimisation from various water management technologies in rice ranges from 73.0 to 507.9 kg CO2equivalents ha−1 yr−1. Agroforestry practices can sequester 8.64 to 52.77 Mg CO2ha−1 yr−1besides enhancing system productivity, arresting soil erosion and carbon loss through erosion. Integration of multiple technologies in a farming system further enhances the adaptation and mitigation benefits. Adoption of conservation technologies resulted in a net carbon balance of 0.05–1.23 CO2Mg ha−1 yr−1in 9 villages in India, indicating net positive carbon balance due to reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration. Building carbon positive villages is a potential approach for preventing land degradation, while enhancing productivity, mitigating climate change and realising the sustainable development goals. Building capacities of communities and establishing institutions in villages are essential for upscaling and maintaining of soil and water conservation structures and community assets in the village. Furthermore, prioritisation and scaling of location specific land and water conservation technologies hold the key to establish carbon‐positive villages.