bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemin accumulation and identification of a heme‐binding protein clan in K562 cells by proteomic and computational analysis
Authors: Tsolaki Vasiliki‐Dimitra C. , Georgiou‐Siafis Sofia K. , Tsamadou Athina I. , Tsiftsoglou Stefanos A. , Samiotaki Martina , Panayotou George , Tsiftsoglou Asterios S.
Published: October 2021

Heme (iron protoporphyrin IX) is an essential regulator conserved in all known organisms. We investigated the kinetics of intracellular accumulation of hemin (oxidized form) in human transformed proerythroid K562 cells using [14C]‐hemin and observed that it is time and temperature‐dependent, affected by the presence of serum proteins, as well as the amphipathic/hydrophobic properties of hemin. Hemin‐uptake exhibited saturation kinetics as a function of the concentration added, suggesting the involvement of a carrier‐cell surface receptor‐mediated process. The majority of intracellular hemin accumulated in the cytoplasm, while a substantial portion entered the nucleus. Cytosolic proteins isolated by hemin‐agarose affinity column chromatography (HACC) were found to form stable complexes with [59Fe]‐hemin. The HACC fractionation and Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry analysis of cytosolic, mitochondrial, and nuclear protein isolates from K562 cell extracts revealed the presence of a large number of hemin‐binding proteins (HeBPs) of diverse ontologies, including heat shock proteins, cytoskeletal proteins, enzymes, and signaling proteins such as actinin a4, mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1 as well as several others. The subsequent computational analysis of the identified HeBPs using HemoQuest confirmed the presence of various hemin/heme‐binding motifs [C(X)nC, H, Y] in their primary structures and conformations. The possibility that these HeBPs contribute to a heme intracellular trafficking protein network involved in the homeostatic regulation of the pool and overall functions of heme is discussed.
Wax carving exercises predict performance on practical examinations for first‐year dental students
Authors: Imbery Terence A. , Goolsby Susie P. , Janus Charles , Stilianoudakis Spiro
Published: October 2021

Perceptual ability test (PAT) is a valid determinant for spatial perceptions. However, a validated psychomotor skill test for dentistry does not currently exist.

Purpose/Objectives: This study aimed to determine whether the results of two wax carving exercises (E1 and E2), PAT, quantitative reasoning (QR), and academic average (AA) tests predict students’ performance on dental anatomy practical examinations.

Methods: First‐year dental students (n = 69) participated in the study. Results of the PAT, QR, and AA were obtained from the Admissions Office. Participants completed wax carving exercises during the first (E1) and last weeks (E2) of the dental anatomy course. Carving instruments, instruction, and rubrics, were provided to participants who were instructed to carve a cube and a semicircle shape into a wax block using the wax subtraction technique. Two calibrated and blinded faculty graded the exercise as ideal, satisfactory, or unsatisfactory in four categories: finish, sharpness, symmetry, and accuracy. During the dental anatomy course, participants completed wax carving practical examinations for a maxillary central incisor and a mandibular first molar. Examinations were graded by calibrated faculty as ideal, satisfactory, or unsatisfactory. The linear mixed effects model assessed influences of independent variables on the practical examinations. Results: estimates of the independent variables on the practical examinations were PAT (0.027), AA (0.088), QR (–0.014), E1 (0.235), and E2 (0.175). Conclusions: wax carving exercises were stronger predictors of performance on the practical examinations than the PAT, AA, and QR. This simple exercise may help identify students early in their preclinical education requiring additional assistance.
Design, synthesis, and biological evaluations of (E)‐2‐(1‐[2‐mercapto‐4‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐imidazol‐5‐yl]ethylidene)hydrazinecarbothioamide derivatives as antimicrobial agents
Authors: Daraji Drashti G. , Rajani Dhanji P. , Jayanthi Sivaraman , Patel Hitesh D.
Published: October 2021

In recent year, the development of new drugs as antibacterial agents is an important resolution to overcome drug‐resistant pathogens. Imidazole derivatives were synthesized using the microwave irradiation method and were characterized using spectral analysis techniques such as proton nuclear magnetic resonance, mass, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. All the analogous were assessed for their in vitro antimicrobial activity and in silico; minimum inhibition concentration values of some conjugates were evaluated against extended spectrum beta‐lactamases, vancomycin‐resistant enterococci, and Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains from clinical samples. All the analogous were used as ligands in molecular docking and adsorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion against saDHPS. Furthermore, compounds were also examined for their in vitro antituberculosis and antimalarial activity.
Cardiolipin function in the yeast S. cerevisiae and the lessons learned for Barth syndrome
Authors: Ji Jiajia , Greenberg Miriam L.
Published: October 2021

Cardiolipin (CL) is the signature phospholipid (PL) of mitochondria and plays a pivotal role in mitochondrial and cellular function. Disruption of the CL remodeling gene tafazzin (TAZ) causes the severe genetic disorder Barth syndrome (BTHS). Our current understanding of the function of CL and the mechanism underlying the disease has greatly benefited from studies utilizing the powerful yeast model Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this review, we discuss important findings on the function of CL and its remodeling from yeast studies and the implications of these findings for BTHS, highlighting the potential physiological modifiers that may contribute to the disparities in clinical presentation among BTHS patients.
A Call to Serve Others: An Existential Illustration of Advocacy in Counseling
Authors: Palacios Alfredo F. , Stark Cortny
Published: October 2021

We introduce the second installment of the special issue on existentialism by briefly rendering the call to serve others as professional counselors from the framework of existentialism.
Creating Homeplace for Black Male Counselor Educators: A Heuristic Inquiry
Authors: Bonner Matthew W. , Ford David J. , Ferguson Alfonso L. , Nadrich Tyce , Branch C. Jason , Hannon Michael D. , Vereen Linwood G.
Published: October 2021

Homeplace (hooks, 1990) is a social construct wherein Black people can aspire to healthy existence and wholeness in an anti‐Black world. Describing experiences of their annual writing retreat, seven Black male counselor educators explored their experience of homeplace through coautoethnography using the six phases of heuristic inquiry (Moustakas, 1990).
Exclusive enteral nutrition with oral polymeric diet helps in inducing clinical and biochemical remission in adults with active Crohn's disease
Authors: Kakkadasam Ramaswamy Pradeep ,   Gold Coast Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Research Group
Published: October 2021

Background and Aims

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is not routinely used as induction therapy for adults with active Crohn's disease (CD). The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of EEN with oral polymeric formula as an adjunct for inducing clinical and biochemical remission in adults with active CD.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of data from January 2018 to September 2019 on all patients with active CD who commenced EEN. The primary end point (PE) was clinical remission (Crohn's Disease Activity Index [CDAI] ≤150) or response (100‐point decrease in CDAI) at 8 weeks. The secondary end point (SE) was biochemical remission (C‐reactive protein level ≤5 mg/L or feces calprotectin level ≤150 mcg/g) at 8 weeks in those whose baseline values were elevated. We also aimed to identify predictors of response to EEN therapy.

Results

Sixty‐six patients commenced EEN; 53 (of 66; 80.3%) completed the prescribed EEN course. At 8 weeks, 42 (of 66; 63.6%) patients achieved the PE, and 30 (of 53; 56.6%) patients achieved the SE. Patients receiving EEN for ≥6 weeks achieved the PE (72% vs 47.8%; odds ratio [OR], 2.8; P = 0.047; CI, 0.97–8.16) and SE (67.6% vs 36.8%; OR, 3.58; P = 0.035; CI, 1.1–11.63) more frequently compared with patients who received EEN for <6 weeks. Nine patients reported adverse effects.

Conclusion

Polymeric EEN is well tolerated, safe, and effective in inducing clinical and biochemical remission in adults with active CD. EEN duration of ≥6 weeks has better outcomes.
Dietary medium‐chain 1‐monoglycerides modulates the community and function of cecal microbiota of broilers
Authors: Liu Tao , Guo Liangyong , Zhangying Ye , Ruan Shengyue , Liu Wangxin , Zhang Xi , Feng Fengqin
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Medium‐chain monoglycerides (MGs) are a group of 1‐monoglycerides of medium‐chain fatty acids with strong antibacterial activity, which may influence the gut microbiota in the diet of broilers. The present study evaluated the effects of mixed MGs on the community and function of gut microbiota in broilers. A total of 528 newly hatched male yellow feathered broiler chicks were weighed and randomly assigned into four groups, including a basal diet (CON), a basal diet containing 300 mg kg−1 MG (MG300), 450 mg kg−1 MG (MG450), or 600 mg kg−1 MG (MG600).

RESULTS

The cecal acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, isovaleric acid and total short‐chain fatty acid of broilers in the MG‐containing groups were notably increased compared with the CON group. Dietary MG selectively increased the relative abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae, Bacteroides and an unclassified genus of Lachnospiraceae family, but decreased the proportion of an unclassified genus of Barnesiellaceae and a norank genus of Flavobacteriaceae family in the cecum of broilers. Functional prediction revealed that MG supplementation enriched the microbial gene abundance of amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism, while depleted the gene abundance of fat metabolism and energy metabolism. Moreover, the modulation of gut microbiota by MG supplementation was closely correlated with the alteration of muscle amino acids.

CONCLUSION

Dietary MGs altered the gut microbiota community structure and metabolites, and modulated the gene abundance of microbial metabolism pathways in the cecum of broilers, which may further influence the growth performance, nutrient utilization and meat quality of the host. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Metabolic and antioxidant effects of inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in crops of flesh‐coloured Solanum tuberosum treated with fungicides
Authors: Alarcón Sebastián , Tereucán Gonzalo , Cornejo Pablo , Contreras Boris , Ruiz Antonieta
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Solanum tuberosum tubers have higher content of phenolic compounds such as hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives (HCAD) and anthocyanins in coloured genotypes. The use of fungicides for crops is common, but there are few studies regarding the interaction of fungicides and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Here, the AMF–plant interactions and the metabolic responses of three potato genotypes with different tuber colorations (VR808, CB2011‐509 and CB2011‐104) inoculated with Claroideoglomus claroideum (CC), Claroideoglomus lamellosum (HMC26) or Funneliformis mosseae (HMC7) were studied together with the use of the fungicides MONCUT (M) and ReflectXtra (R). Mycorrhizal traits, phenolic compound profiles and antioxidant activity (AA) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Despite only two HCADs being identified, with 5‐caffeolquinic acid the most abundant, four anthocyanins were detected only in purple potato genotypes. The anthocyanin and HCAD profiles, as well as AA, showed that the CB2011‐104 genotype had better characteristics than the other genotypes, while VR808 and CB509 showed similar responses. The responses were dependent on the specific combinations of genotype, fungicide and the AMF strain, and generally showed better responses when colonized by AMFs.

CONCLUSION

The three potato genotypes had differential responses depending on the inoculated AMFs and the fungicide applied before sowing, where the optimal combinations for antioxidant response, mycorrhization degree and performance were HMC26/R for VR808, HMC7/M for CB2011‐509 and HMC26/M for CB2011‐104. Our results suggest the existence of functional compatibility that can be registered as beneficial effects even at the genotypic level of the host regarding a specific AMF strain. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
A novel online calculator to predict recurrence risk in patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma after radical pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Xu Shuai , Zhang Xiu‐Ping , Zhao Guo‐Dong , Zou Wen‐Bo , Zhao Zhi‐Ming , Hu Ming‐Gen , Gao Yuan‐Xing , Tan Xiang‐Long , Liu Qu , Liu Rong
Published: October 2021

Background

Patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma (DCC) are prone to relapse even after radical pancreaticoduodenectomy. In this study, we sought to create an online nomogram calculator to accurately predict the recurrence risk of DCC.

Methods

A total of 184 patients were included. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to identify independent prognosis factors for recurrence‐free survival and overall survival. A nomogram was constructed according to the prognostic factors in the training cohort and then tested in the validation cohort.

Results

Multivariate Cox analysis showed preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (p < 0.001), maximum tumor size (p = 0.076), perineural invasion (p = 0.044), and N stage (p = 0.076) were independent prognostic factors for DCC relapse. We then constructed a nomogram with these four factors. The consistency index (C‐index) of the nomogram in the training and validation cohorts were 0.703 and 0.665, respectively. Time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic and decision curve analyses revealed that the nomogram provided higher diagnostic power and net benefit compared with other staging systems.

Conclusion

In this study, we developed an online nomogram calculator that can accurately predict the recurrence risk of DCC and identify patients with a high risk of recurrence in a simple and convenient manner.
Textbook oncologic outcome in pancreaticoduodenectomy: Do regionalization efforts make sense?
Authors: Kulshrestha Sujay , Sweigert Patrick J. , Tonelli Celsa , Bunn Corinne , Luchette Fred A. , Abdelsattar Zaid M. , Pawlik Timothy M. , Baker Marshall S.
Published: October 2021

Background and Objectives

Few empiric studies evaluate the effects of regionalization on pancreatic cancer care.

Methods

We queried the National Cancer Database to identify patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy for clinical stage I/II pancreatic adenocarcinoma between 2006 and 2015. Facilities were categorized by annual pancreatectomy volume. Textbook oncologic outcome was defined as a margin negative resection, appropriate lymph node assessment, no prolonged hospitalization, no 30‐day readmission, no 90‐day mortality, and timely receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy. Multivariable regression adjusted for comorbid disease, pathologic stage, and facility characteristics was used to evaluate the relationship between facility volume and textbook outcome.

Results

Sixteen thousand six hundred and two patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy; 3566 (21.5%) had a textbook outcome. Operations performed at high volume centers increased each year (45.8% in 2006 to 64.2% in 2015, p < 0.001) as did textbook outcome rates (14.3%–26.2%, p < 0.001). Surgical volume was associated with textbook outcome. High volume centers demonstrated higher unadjusted rates of textbook outcome (25.4% vs. 11.8% p < 0.01) and increased adjusted odds of textbook outcome relative to low volume centers (odds ratio: 2.39, [2.02, 2.85], p < 0.001). Textbook outcome was associated with improved overall survival independent of volume.

Conclusions

Regionalization of care for pancreaticoduodenectomy to high volume centers is ongoing and is associated with improved quality of care.
Lower Leg Muscle Stiffness on Two‐Dimensional Shear Wave Elastography in Subjects With Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
Authors: Zhang Haixiang , Peng Weiping , Qin Chi , Miao Yuqian , Zhou Fan , Ma Yutong , Gao Yongyan
Published: October 2021

Objectives

We aimed to explore, which muscle stiffness changes may be related to medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) and the correlation between the medial tibial periosteal thickness and lower leg muscle stiffness.

Methods

This study included 63 subjects distributed into 3 groups: the symptomless group, the MTSS group, and the control group. The lower leg muscle stiffness of the tibialis anterior (TA), extensor digitorum longus (EDL), peroneus longus (PL), soleus (SOL), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), medial gastrocnemius (MG), tibialis posterior (TP), and flexor digitorum longus (FDL) in the 3 groups was obtained by two‐dimensional shear wave elastography. Differences in the muscle stiffness and medial tibial periosteal thickness in the 3 groups were determined by one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and least significant difference tests. The relationships between the periosteal thickness and the muscle stiffness were assessed using Pearson correlations.

Results

The shear wave velocity (SWV) of all lower leg muscles except the EDL was higher in the symptomless and MTSS groups than in the control group (TA, P = .001; PL, P = .006; SOL, P < .001; LG, P < .001; MG, P < .001; TP, P < .001; FDL, P = .013; and ANOVA). A significant difference was found in the SWV of the SOL, TP, and FDL between the control and symptomless groups (P = .041, P < .001, and P = .013, respectively). Moreover, the medial tibial periosteum was thickened after running training, and its thickness was positively correlated with muscle stiffness.

Conclusion

The medial tibia periosteal thickness is positively correlated with the lower leg muscles stiffness. Changes in SOL, TP, and FDL stiffness may be related to the occurrence of MTSS.
Introduction of the Concept of Diagnostic Sensitivity and Specificity of Normothermic Perfusion Protocols to Assess High‐Risk Donor Livers
Authors: Mergental Hynek , Laing Richard W. , Hodson James , Boteon Yuri L. , Attard Joseph A. , Walace Laine L. , Neil Desley A. H. , Barton Darren , Schlegel Andrea , Muiesan Paolo , Abradelo Manuel , Isaac John R. , Roberts Keith , Perera M. Thamara P. R. , Afford Simon C. , Mirza Darius F.
Published: October 2021

Normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) allows objective assessment of donor liver transplantability. Several viability evaluation protocols have been established, consisting of parameters such as perfusate lactate clearance, pH, transaminase levels, and the production and composition of bile. The aims of this study were to assess 3 such protocols, namely, those introduced by the teams from Birmingham (BP), Cambridge (CP), and Groningen (GP), using a cohort of high‐risk marginal livers that had initially been deemed unsuitable for transplantation and to introduce the concept of the viability assessment sensitivity and specificity. To demonstrate and quantify the diagnostic accuracy of these protocols, we used a composite outcome of organ use and 24‐month graft survival as a surrogate endpoint. The effects of assessment modifications, including the removal of the most stringent components of the protocols, were also assessed. Of the 31 organs, 22 were transplanted after a period of NMP, of which 18 achieved the outcome of 24‐month graft survival. The BP yielded 94% sensitivity and 50% specificity when predicting this outcome. The GP and CP both seemed overly conservative, with 1 and 0 organs, respectively, meeting these protocols. Modification of the GP and CP to exclude their most stringent components increased this to 11 and 8 organs, respectively, and resulted in moderate sensitivity (56% and 44%) but high specificity (92% and 100%, respectively) with respect to the composite outcome. This study shows that the normothermic assessment protocols can be useful in identifying potentially viable organs but that the balance of risk of underuse and overuse varies by protocol.
Oleic Acid Constructed Supramolecular Hyperbranched Polysiloxane with Enhanced Fluorescence and Excellent Drug Delivery Ability
Authors: Bai Lihua , Yan Hongxia , Guo Liulong , He Miaomiao , Bai Tian , Yang Pengfei
Published: October 2021

Hyperbranched polysiloxane (HBPSi) as a novel unconventional fluorescent polymer has attached great attention due to its stable fluorescence, facile preparation, and good biocompatibility. Study shows that the fluorescence of unconventional fluorescent polymer is closely related to the aggregate state. To promote the aggregate of HBPSi and endow it with drug delivery ability, in this work, different contents of renewable oleic acid are grafted onto a water‐soluble HBPSi. Results show that oleic acid constructs compact supramolecular HBPSi, leading to the enhancement of electronic communication among hydroxyl, amine, ether, and ─Si(O)3 groups in the supramolecular, which inhibits the movement of molecular chains and subsequently enhances the fluorescence. The novel compact supramolecular HBPSi has a high drug loading capacity (470 mg g–1) due to its typical structure, which is much higher than the reported β‐cyclodextrin modified HBPSi (180 mg g–1), and the drug release is also pH‐controlled. Moreover, the fluorescence of HBPSi‐OA is sensitive to Fe3+. Therefore, the supramolecular HBPSi can be applied in drug delivery and Fe3+ sensing.
Characterization of temperatures associated to Schrödinger operators with initial data in BMO spaces
Authors: Yang Minghua , Zhang Chao
Published: October 2021

Let be a Schrödinger operator of the form acting on where the nonnegative potential V belongs to the reverse Hölder class for some . Let denote the BMO space on associated to the Schrödinger operator . In this article we will show that a function is the trace of the solution of , where u satisfies a Carleson‐type condition
Conversely, this Carleson‐type condition characterizes all the ‐carolic functions whose traces belong to the space .
Huppert's conjecture for character codegrees
Authors: Moretó Alexander
Published: October 2021

Huppert's ρ‐σ conjecture is one of the main open problems on character degrees of finite groups. A number of ρ‐σ problems have been studied. For instance, T. Keller and J. Zhang considered the ρ‐σ problem for element orders in the 1990s. Recently, a lot of research is being done on character codegrees. Y. Yang and G. Qian studied the ρ‐σ problem for character codegrees in 2017. In this note, we obtain a sharp bound for groups with trivial solvable radical. As a consequence, we improve the general bound of Yang and Qian. For solvable groups, we notice that the ρ‐σ problem for character codegrees is very closely related to the ρ‐σ problem for element orders. In particular, we give a partial negative answer to a speculation by Yang and Qian on the exact bound for the ρ‐σ problem for character codegrees.
Donor‐Acceptor Conjugated Heptazine Polymers with Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Degradations towards Tetracyclines
Authors: Li Zhen , Zeng Wei , Li Meng‐Hua , Zheng Jun‐Feng , Fang Xin , Lin Mei‐Jin
Published: October 2021

Photocatalysis is an efficient and green technology in the environmental protection. Due to the high charge separation and transfer, donor–acceptor (D–A) conjugated polymers attract much attention for their photocatalytic degradations towards organic pollutants. Herein, the authors reported three novel D–A conjugated polymers, named as HPBP, HPTP, and HPF, with heptazine moieties as electron acceptors, while biphenyl, terphenyl, or fluorene moieties as electron donors, respectively, which indeed exhibit a highly efficient photocatalytic degradation towards tetracyclines upon the visible‐light irradiation. Among them, the photocatalytic performance of HPF is especially noticeable with the degradation rate up to 87% within 30 min, almost 11 times in comparison to those of pristine g‐C3N4, which is mainly attributed to its high crystallinity and conjugation. For their photocatalytic mechanism, the •O2– radical anions are regarded as the active species.
Characterization of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains colonizing the nostrils of Spanish children
Authors: Román Federico , Mendez‐Echevarria Ana , Del Rosal Teresa , Garcia‐Vera Cesar , Escosa‐Garcia Luis , Agud Martin , Chaves Fernando , Gutiérrez‐Fernández José , Ruiz de Gopegui Enrique , Ruiz‐Carrascoso Guillermo , Ruiz‐Gallego Maria del Carmen , Bernet Albert , Quevedo Sara Maria , Fernández‐Verdugo Ana Maria , Sainz Talia , Calvo Cristina
Published: October 2021

Objective

To characterize the Staphylococcus aureus strains colonizing healthy Spanish children.

Methods

Between March and July 2018, 1876 Spanish children younger than 14 years attending primary healthcare centers were recruited from rural and urban areas. Staphylococcus aureus colonization of the anterior nostrils was analyzed. MecA and mecC genes, antibiotic susceptibility, and genotyping according to the spa were determined in all strains, and the following toxins were examined: Panton‐Valentine leucocidin (pvl), toxic shock syndrome toxin (tst), and exfoliative toxins (eta, etb, etd). Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and staphylococcal cassette chromosome (SCCmec) typing were performed on methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, as well as pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE).

Results

619 strains were isolated in 1876 children (33%), and 92% of them were sent for characterization to the Spanish National Centre of Microbiology (n = 572). Twenty (3.5%) of these strains were mecA‐positive. Several spa types were detected among MRSA, being t002 the most frequently observed (30%), associating with SCCmec IVc. Among MSSA, 33% were positive for tst, while only 0.73% were positive for pvl. The 20 MRSA strains were negative for pvl, and 6 (30%) harbored the tst gene.

Conclusions

methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus nasal colonization in Spanish children is rare, with t002 being the most observed spa type, associated with SCCmec IVc. None of the MRSA strains produced pvl, but up to 30% of S. aureus strains were positive for tst.
Effect of the skincare product on facial skin microbial structure and biophysical parameters: A pilot study
Authors: Hwang Bo Kyoung , Lee Sado , Myoung Joonoh , Hwang Seung Jin , Lim Jun Man , Jeong Eui Taek , Park Sun Gyoo , Youn Sung Hun
Published: October 2021

Daily use of cosmetics is known to affect the skin microbiome. This study aimed to determine the bacterial community structure and skin biophysical parameters following the daily application of a skincare product on the face. Twenty‐five Korean women, who used the same skincare product for four weeks participated in the study. During this period, skin hydration, texture, sebum content, and pH were measured, and skin swab samples were collected on the cheeks. The microbiota was analyzed using the MiSeq system. Through these experiments, bacterial diversity in facial skin increased and the microbial community changed after four weeks of skincare product application. The relative abundance of Cutibacterium and Staphylococcus increased, significant changes in specific bacterial modules of the skin microbial network were observed, and skin hydration and texture improved. It was suggested that daily use of skincare products could affect the microbial structure of facial skin as well as the biophysical properties of the facial skin. These findings expand our understanding of the role of skincare products on the skin environment.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids cause physiological and behavioral changes in Vibrio alginolyticus and Vibrio fischeri
Authors: Smith David S. , Houck Carina , Lee Allycia , Simmons Timothy B. , Chester Olivia N. , Esdaile Ayanna , Symes Steven J. K. , Giles David K.
Published: October 2021

Vibrio alginolyticus and Vibrio (Aliivibrio) fischeri are Gram‐negative bacteria found globally in marine environments. During the past decade, studies have shown that certain Gram‐negative bacteria, including Vibrio species (cholerae, parahaemolyticus, and vulnificus) are capable of using exogenous polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to modify the phospholipids of their membrane. Moreover, exposure to exogenous PUFAs has been shown to affect certain phenotypes that are important factors of virulence. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether V. alginolyticus and V. fischeri are capable of responding to exogenous PUFAs by remodeling their membrane phospholipids and/or altering behaviors associated with virulence. Thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) analyses and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (UPLC/ESI‐MS) confirmed incorporation of all PUFAs into membrane phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine. Several growth phenotypes were identified when individual fatty acids were supplied in minimal media and as sole carbon sources. Interestingly, several PUFAs acids inhibited growth of V. fischeri. Significant alterations to membrane permeability were observed depending on fatty acid supplemented. Strikingly, arachidonic acid (20:4) reduced membrane permeability by approximately 35% in both V. alginolyticus and V. fischeri. Biofilm assays indicated that fatty acid influence was dependent on media composition and temperature. All fatty acids caused decreased swimming motility in V. alginolyticus, while only linoleic acid (18:2) significantly increased swimming motility in V. fischeri. In summary, exogenous fatty acids cause a variety of changes in V. alginolyticus and V. fischeri, thus adding these bacteria to a growing list of Gram‐negatives that exhibit versatility in fatty acid utilization and highlighting the potential for environmental PUFAs to influence phenotypes associated with planktonic, beneficial, and pathogenic associations.
Creation of a rat lymphedema model using extensive lymph node dissection and circumferential soft tissue resection: Is this a reliable model?
Authors: Huang Chi‐Wei , Chang Yung‐Chun , Hsiao Hui‐Yi , Liu Jia‐Wei , Chang Frank Chun‐Shin , Huang Jung‐Ju
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The medical demand for lymphedema treatment is huge since the disease mechanism remains unclear, and management are difficult. Our purpose was to develop a reliable lymphedema model mimicking the clinical scenario and allows a microsurgical approach.

Materials and methods

Male Lewis rats weighing 400 to 450 g were used to create lymphedema with groin and popliteal lymph node dissection and creation of 5 mm circumferential skin defect (n = 6). A skin incision was made and closed primarily for control group (n = 5). Evaluation included indocyanine green (ICG) lymphangiography 1 and 2 months postoperatively, volume difference between bilateral hindlimbs measured using micro‐CT, and the skin was harvested for histological evaluation 2 months postoperatively.

Results

Larger volume differences present in the lymphedema group (17.50 ± 7.76 vs. 3.73 ± 2.66%, p < .05). ICG lymphangiography indicated dermal backflow only in the lymphedema group. Increased thickness of the epidermis was noted in lymphedema group (28.50 ± 12.61 μm vs. 15.10 ± 5.41 μm, p < .0001). More CD45+ (35.6 ± 26.68 vs. 2.8 ± 4.23 cells/high power field [HPF], p < .0001), CD3+ (38.39 ± 20.17 vs. 9.73 ± 8.62 cells/HPF, p < .0001), and CD4+ cell infiltration (11.7 ± 7.71 vs. 2.0 ± 2.67 cells/HPF, p < .0001) were observed in the lymphedema group. Collagen type I deposition was more in the lymphedema group (0.15 ± 0.06 vs. 0.07 ± 0.03, p < .0005).

Conclusions

A rat lymphedema model was successfully established. The model can be applied in lymphedema related research.
Monotone iterative method for nonlinear fractional p‐Laplacian differential equation in terms of ψ‐Caputo fractional derivative equipped with a new class of nonlinear boundary conditions
Authors: Baitiche Zidane , Derbazi Choukri , Wang Guotao
Published: October 2021

The aim of this paper is to deal with the existence of extremal solutions for a novel class of nonlinear fractional p‐Laplacian differential equation in terms of ψ‐Caputo fractional derivative equipped with a new class of nonlinear boundary conditions. Initially, we focus on the linear problem and we give an explicit form of the solutions, from which we derive new comparison results which is crucial for the proof of the main theorem of this paper. Secondly, with the help of the monotone iterative method along with its accompanying upper and lower solutions, the existence of extremal solutions for the aforementioned problem is investigated. Then, based on the proposed method, we can construct two types of successive approximations which converge uniformly monotonically to minimal and maximal solutions of the given problem. Finally, we illustrate our results with an example.
2D hereditary thermoelastic application of a thick plate under axisymmetric temperature distribution
Authors: Sherief Hany H. , Abd El‐Latief Abd El‐Latief M. , Fayik Mohsen A.
Published: October 2021

In this work, we present a new theory of generalized fractional hereditary thermoelasticity associated with Mittag–Leffler relaxation function. We analyze a two‐dimensional problem of a thick plate of hereditary thermoelastic. The lower and upper surfaces of the plate are assumed to be traction free and subjected to a given axisymmetric temperature distribution. Direct approach together with Laplace and Hankel transform techniques is employed to obtain the solution in the transformed domain. Hankel transforms are inverted analytically while a numerical method is used for the Laplace transform inversion. The distributions of different fields like temperature, displacement, and stresses have been computed and shown graphically.
High‐order long‐time approximation of (N + 1)‐level systems with near‐resonance control
Authors: Geng Ru , Zu Jian
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we focus on high‐order approximate solutions of (N + 1)‐level systems with near‐resonance control over a long period of time. A high‐order renormalization group (RG) method with rigorous proof is developed to deal with such open quantum systems. By constructing high‐order RG equations, we obtained the high‐order long‐time RG approximate solutions of (N + 1)‐level systems in several kinds of near‐resonance cases. The numerical simulation results show that our high‐order RG method has the same accuracy as the fourth‐order Runge–Kutta method in O(1) time scale but more reliable in
time scale.
Update about the disrupting‐effects of phthalates on the human reproductive system
Authors: Mesquita Inês , Lorigo Margarida , Cairrao Elisa
Published: October 2021

Phthalate esters are synthetic chemicals used in the plastic industry as plasticizers and consumable products. According to United Nations, about 400 million tons of plastic are produced every year. In parallel with increased production, the concerns about its effects on human health have increased because phthalates are endocrine‐disrupting compounds. Humans are continuously exposed to phthalates through different routes of exposure. Experimental data have associated the phthalates exposure to adverse effects on development and reproduction in women (e.g., earlier puberty, primary ovarian insufficiency, endometriosis, preterm birth, or in vitro fertilization) and men (e.g., anogenital distance, cryptorchidism, hypospadias, and changes in adult reproductive function) although there is no consensus. Therefore, one question arises: could the increase in infertility be related to phthalates exposure? To answer this question, we aimed to assess the disrupting‐effects of phthalates on the human reproductive system. For this, we reviewed the current literature based on epidemiological and experimental data and experimental studies in humans. The phthalate effects were discussed in a separate mode for female and male reproductive systems. In summary, phthalates induce toxicity in the reproductive system and human development. The increased plastic production may be related to the increase in human infertility.
The use of onabotulinumtoxinA to treat idiopathic overactive bladder in elderly patients is in need of study
Authors: Manns Kate , Khan Asher , Carlson Kevin V. , Wagg Adrian , Baverstock Richard J. , Trafford Crump R.
Published: October 2021

Background

Injecting onabotulinumtoxinA (BoTN‐A) into the bladder has been established as an effective treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) and well‐tolerated by patients. However, there evidence suggests the efficacy and safety of this treatment may decrease with age due to increased comorbidities and frailty. This study's objective was to establish empirical evidence regarding age‐related differences in outcomes related to BoTN‐A for the treatment of idiopathic OAB.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Registry for Controlled Trials were systematically searched. Results were restricted to randomized control trials of BoTN‐A bladder injections for the treatment of idiopathic OAB. The resulting articles' abstracts were screened independently by two reviewers. Those passing the screen were reviewed in full. Articles were excluded if participants were <18 years old, diagnosed with neurogenic overactivity, or treated with both oral medications and BoTN‐A; if the frequency and severity of OAB symptoms were not specified; or, if symptoms were not stratified by age.

Results

The initial search resulted in 1572 articles; 166 were reviewed in full. None met all inclusion/exclusion criteria. However, 21 studies met all criteria except age stratification. Authors were contacted to obtain raw data to perform an independent age‐based analysis, but sufficient data was not received.

Conclusion

While the initial systematic review did not generate the expected results, it did reveal that age‐related outcomes of BoTN‐A for the treatment of OAB are significantly under‐studied. Given that the prevalence of OAB increases with age, this is an important knowledge gap. Our article explains the rationale for further study in this area.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation as add‐on therapy in children receiving anticholinergics and/or mirabegron for refractory daytime urinary incontinence: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pedersen Natashja , Breinbjerg Anders , Thorsteinsson Kristina , Hagstrøm Søren , Rittig Søren , Kamperis Konstantinos
Published: October 2021

Aims

To investigate if children with daytime urinary incontinence (DUI) and overactive bladder (OAB) refractory to standard urotherapy and medicinal treatment, would experience improvement in symptoms after add‐on treatment with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).

Methods

Children were retrospectively enrolled from tertiary referral centers at Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals. All data were retrieved from the patients’ journals. All children were prescribed TENS as an add‐on treatment to the highest‐tolerable dose of medicinal treatment in a standardized regime of 2 h a day for around 3 months. Primary endpoints were the number of wet days per week (WDPW) and incontinence episodes per day. Effect of treatment was defined as greater or equal to 50% reduction in the frequency of DUI episodes. Secondary endpoints were to establish predictive factors for the effect of treatment using logistic regression.

Results

Seventy‐six children diagnosed with DUI and OAB refractory to treatment with standard urotherapy and pharmacological treatment, at the age of 5–16 years were included from February 2017 to February 2020. A reduction in WDPW (from 6.31 [5.86–6.61] to 4.27 [3.45–4.90], p < 0.05) and incontinence episodes per day (from 2.45 [1.98–2.91] to 1.43 [1.07–1.80], p < 0.05) was observed. Twelve patients became completely dry. At 6 months follow‐up, seven of the 12 complete responders had relapsed while five remained dry. A history of constipation before TENS was a predictor of poor treatment response (p = 0.016).

Conclusions

TENS as add‐on to anticholinergic treatment seems effective in a number of children with treatment‐refractory DUI.
From childhood victimization to internalizing and externalizing behavior problems through self‐esteem in adolescence
Authors: Lee Chia‐Kuei , Feng Jui‐Ying
Published: October 2021

In this study, we aimed to determine whether forms of victimization influence internalizing and externalizing behavior problems differently and whether these relationships are mediated by self‐esteem. This study included 2321 Taiwanese adolescents aged 11−21 from a previous case‐control study. Six forms of victimization, self‐esteem, and seven behaviors were measured. Gender, age, group (justice‐involved vs. high‐school adolescents), and family dysfunction were covariates in generalized linear models and path analysis. Different forms of childhood victimization were associated with different internalizing and externalizing behavior problems. Additionally, psychological abuse and psychological neglect were negatively associated with self‐esteem, which itself was associated with all internalizing and externalizing behavior problems. Significant indirect effects of psychological abuse and psychological neglect on all internalizing and externalizing behavior problems (mediated by self‐esteem) were also identified. Due to the limitation of measurement, the interpretation about the influence of victimization patterns could not be made. Findings suggest that different forms of childhood victimization may lead to different mechanisms for internalizing and externalizing behavior problems in adolescents. Further research is needed to identify the mechanisms underlying different forms of childhood victimization and to clarify the effects of victimization patterns to develop effective interventions.
The social construction of HIV: A narrative study of Israeli Arab People
Authors: Soffer Michal
Published: October 2021

“Social determinants of health”—that is, nonmedical care‐related factors, forces, and structures that have a strong influence on health—play a vital role in HIV prevention and treatment. In this study, we focused on one such key factor: culture. Israeli Arab people, the largest minority group in Israel, share a unique culture. Although the incidence of HIV/AIDS is lower among Israeli Arab people than among Jewish people, Arab people account for only 1% of HIV tests in Israel and report poorer HIV‐related knowledge, whereas the majority of newly diagnosed Arab people are usually diagnosed with AIDS. This study explored how HIV/AIDS is socially constructed in Israeli Arab society. A sample of 31 HIV‐negative Israeli Arab participants wrote stories about a man living with HIV. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The analysis identified two themes. The first, “HIV and ‘forbidden' sexual practices,” constructed HIV/AIDS as a sexually transmitted disease associated primarily with premarital sex (a norm transgression in Arab culture). The second theme, “living with HIV,” involved two opposing subthemes: “life goes on” and “a ruined life.” The former portrayed the life of men with HIV as moving on, at times into a successful future. The latter depicted the point of diagnosis as signifying a turn for the worst—a bleak and hopeless future. The findings suggest that HIV/AIDS is stigmatized among Israeli Arab people and the nature and extent of the stigma corresponds with cultural norms, stressing the importance of designing culturally informed interventions for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.
The osteology and provenance of a portion of the Parkinson collection, Gazelle Peninsula, New Britain, c. 1897
Authors: Huffer Damien
Published: October 2021

This article presents the results of combined osteological and archival research into the demographics, preservation condition, taphonomy, pathology, cultural modification, and collecting history of that specific portion of the Parkinson collection of human crania from New Britain, collected c. 1897, currently housed in the Etnografiska Museet (Ethnography Museum), Stockholm, Sweden. This assemblage of crania (n = 45) was acquired by Richard Heinrich Robert Parkinson (1844–1909), a Danish explorer and anthropologist initially in the employ of the Hamburg based J. C Goddefroy & Sohn in Samoa trading firm. In 1897, after independently settling on the Gazelle Peninsula of New Britain with his family and beginning to make collecting trips to local communities and those on neighboring islands, this collection of crania eventually came to reside at its present location. This article provides the first in‐depth analysis of the osteology of this collection contextualized within what is known and knowable about its ownership history and movement between collection and arrival in Stockholm. This includes translation of previously untranslateded correspondence from the original German that provide heretofore undisclosed information about Parkinson's collecting activities. Osteological analysis includes age and sex estimation, taphonomic modification as an indicator of initial depositional environment, discussion of select examples of pathology and trauma, and the comparative analysis of decorative motifs (where present). Results indicate a primarily young adult male assemblage, but with all major age classes and both sexes present. Incidents of trauma and pathology are low, but some unique examples are highlighted. The results of the taphonomic analysis reveal new insights into most probable means of primary and secondary deposition before collection and export to Europe. Overall, the work presented here furthers the argument that research into colonial‐era collecting and trading of human remains is most effective when osteological and archival research is conducted together whenever possible.
Thermally Induced Synthesis of Anthracene‐, Pyrene‐ and Naphthalene‐Fused Porphyrins
Authors: Pijeat Joffrey , Chaussy Léo , Simoës Roxanne , Isopi Jacopo , Lauret Jean‐Sébastien , Paolucci Francesco , Marcaccio Massimo , Campidelli Stéphane
Published: October 2021

The synthesis of π‐extended porphyrins containing anthracenyl moieties still represents an important challenge. Here, we report on the synthesis of a series of unsubstituted naphthyl‐, pyrenyl‐ and anthracenyl‐fused zinc porphyrin derivatives. To this aim, meso‐substitued porphyrins are synthesized and the fusion of the PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon) on the β‐positions are performed through thermally induced dehydro‐aromatization. The fused zinc‐porphyrin derivatives are fully characterized and their optical absorption and photoluminescence properties are reported. We also demonstrate that zinc can be removed from the porphyrin core, giving rise to pure C, H, N materials. This work constitutes the first step towards the synthesis of the fully‐fused tetra‐anthracenylporphyrin.
Know The Benefits of Effective Manganese Management Strategies
Authors: Arnold Roger B. , Keithley Asher E. , Cherry Andrea , Coffey Kay , Macaulay Jane
Published: October 2021

The water industry is experiencing renewed interest in optimizing manganese (Mn) control. With greater knowledge of Mn in drinking water, water utilities will be better prepared to develop effective management strategies.
Operators Need to Know Basic Chemistry
Authors: Adams Hunter , Reeder Sam , Barker Randall , Ash Steve , Southard Mark
Published: October 2021

Interpreting chemistry testing data is key to ensuring drinking water quality.
Protect Yourself Against the Work Hazard of Dog Bites
Authors: Robinson Mitzi
Published: October 2021

For any employees whose work takes them to people's homes, the best defense against being bitten by a dog is to be aware and be prepared.