bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear Group 13 E≡E Triple Bonds in E2Li62+
Authors: Cui Zhong‐hua , Liu Yu‐qian , Wang Meng‐hui
Published: August 2021

The triply bonded heavier main‐group compounds have a textbooktrans‐bent geometry, in contrast to a familiar linear form found for the lightest analogues. Strikingly, the unexpected linear group 13 E≡E triple bonds were herein found in theD4h‐symmetry E2Li62+clusters, and they possess a large barrier (>18.0 kcal/mol) towards the dissociation of Li+. The perfectly surrounded Li4motifs and two linear coordinated Li atoms strongly suppress the increasing nonbonded electron density of heavier E atoms, making two degenerate π bonds and one multi‐center σ bond in linear heavier main‐group triple bonds. The surrounding Li6motifs not only creates an effective electronic structure to form a linear E≡E triple bond, but the resulting electrostatic interactions account for the highly stable global E2Li62+clusters.
Green Fabrication Approaches of Lignin Nanoparticles from Different Technical Lignins: A Comparison Study
Authors: Figueiredo Patrícia , Lahtinen Maarit H. , Agustin Melissa B. , de Carvalho Danila Morais , Hirvonen Sami‐Pekka , Penttilä Paavo A. , Mikkonen Kirsi S.
Published: August 2021

The production of lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) has emerged as a way to overcome the highly variable and complex molecular structure of lignin. It can offer morphological control of the lignin polymer, allowing the formation of stable LNP dispersions in aqueous media, while increasing the potential of lignin for high‐value applications. However, the polydispersity and morphology of LNPs varies depending on the lignin grade and preparation method, and a systematic comparison using different technical lignins is lacking. In this study, it was attempted to find a green fabrication method with a distinct solvent fractionation of lignin to prepare LNPs using three different technical lignins as starting polymers: BLN birch lignin (hardwood, BB), alkali Protobind 1000 (grass, PB), and kraft LignoBoost (softwood, LB). For that, three anti‐solvent precipitation approaches to prepare LNPs were systematically compared: 70 % aqueous ethanol, acetone/water (3 : 1) and NaOH as the lignin solvent, and water/aqueous HCl as the anti‐solvent. Among all these methods, the acetone/water (3 : 1) approach allowed production of homogeneous and monodisperse LNPs with a negative surface charge and also spherical and smooth surfaces. Overall, the results revealed that the acetone/water (3 : 1) method was the most effective approach tested to obtain homogenous, small, and spherical LNPs from the three technical lignins. These LNPs exhibited an improved stability at different ionic strengths and a wider pH range compared to the other preparation methods, which can greatly increase their application in many fields, such as pharmaceutical and food sciences.
Equation of state of hydrogen, helium, and solar plasmas
Authors: Ebeling Werner , Reinholz Heidi , Röpke Gerd
Published: August 2021

The equation of state (EOS) for plasmas of the two lightest elements H and He, and mixtures as typical for the plasmas in the sun are calculated. The contributions of deep bound states are included by using inverted fugacity expansions. The inversion of fugacities to densities is reduced to solvable algebraic problems and expressed by rational polynomials. The calculation of relative pressures is carried out separately for low and high densities. Near the crossing point, in between, the separate solutions are connected to each other by smooth concatenation. Applications to hydrogen–helium plasmas in the sun including estimates for the isentropic EOS are discussed.
Development and validation of an analytical method for the simultaneous determination of the alcohol biomarkers ethyl glucuronide, ethyl sulfate, N‐acetyltaurine, and 16:0/18:1‐phosphatidylethanol in human blood
Authors: Hofmann Vanessa , Sundermann Tom R. , Schmitt Georg , Bartel Marc
Published: August 2021

As alcohol is the most common addictive substance worldwide, it is inevitable to advance the established research. New and more substantial analytical methods can be applied to reply to complex questions in legal or forensic contexts. Therefore, an analytical method for the simultaneous determination of four different alcohol biomarkers—ethyl glucuronide, ethyl sulfate, N‐acetyltaurine, and 16:0/18:1‐phosphatidylethanol—in human blood was developed, validated, and verified. Despite the different chemical properties of the analytes, a specific determination via HPLC–MS/MS was achieved using a novel type of a Phenomenex Luna® Omega Sugar column. Furthermore, all criteria for a successful validation were fulfilled according to forensic guidelines. The method proved to be linear and demonstrates selectivity and sufficient sensitivity for every biomarker. LODs obtained with this method of 2.6 ng/ml (EtG), 4.7 ng/ml (EtS), 12.5 ng/ml (NAcT), and 6.9 ng/ml (PEth) were in an acceptable range for routine applications, and the stability of all analytes over a range of 12 h is given. The verification of the new developed method was performed with authentic samples. Thus, whole blood and postmortem samples were analyzed to obtain information about the drinking behavior, which can answer complex questions regarding alcohol consumption.
Multiple coping strategies maintain stability of a small mammal population in a resource‐restricted environment
Authors: Polyakov Anne Y. , Tietje William D. , Srivathsa Arjun , Rolland Virginie , Hines James E. , Oli Madan K.
Published: August 2021

In semi‐arid environments, aperiodic rainfall pulses determine plant production and resource availability for higher trophic levels, creating strong bottom‐up regulation. The influence of climatic factors on population vital rates often shapes the dynamics of small mammal populations in such resource‐restricted environments. Using a 21‐year biannual capture–recapture dataset (1993 to 2014), we examined the impacts of climatic factors on the population dynamics of the brush mouse (Peromyscus boylii) in semi‐arid oak woodland of coastal‐central California. We applied Pradel's temporal symmetry model to estimate capture probability (p), apparent survival (φ), recruitment (f), and realized population growth rate (λ) of the brush mouse and examined the effects of temperature, rainfall, and El Niño on these demographic parameters. The population was stable during the study period with a monthly realized population growth rate of 0.993 ± SE 0.032, but growth varied over time from 0.680 ± 0.054 to 1.450 ± 0.083. Monthly survival estimates averaged 0.789 ± 0.005 and monthly recruitment estimates averaged 0.175 ± 0.038. Survival probability and realized population growth rate were positively correlated with rainfall and negatively correlated with temperature. In contrast, recruitment was negatively correlated with rainfall and positively correlated with temperature. Brush mice maintained their population through multiple coping strategies, with high recruitment during warmer and drier periods and higher survival during cooler and wetter conditions. Although climatic change in coastal‐central California will likely favor recruitment over survival, varying strategies may serve as a mechanism by which brush mice maintain resilience in the face of climate change. Our results indicate that rainfall and temperature are both important drivers of brush mouse population dynamics and will play a significant role in predicting the future viability of brush mice under a changing climate.
Corallivory varies with water depth to influence the growth ofAcropora hyacinthus, a reef‐forming coral
Authors: Ladd Mark C. , Winslow Erin M. , Burkepile Deron E. , Lenihan Hunter S.
Published: August 2021

A long‐held paradigm is that water depth has a strong influence on coral performance mainly due to the rapid attenuation of light. Yet, many factors influence coral performance across reefscapes, including corallivory. How coral demographic performance changes with water depth and the intensity of corallivory has not been tested but is intriguing because fish abundance and community composition change substantially with water depth. We tested the independent and interactive effects of water depth and corallivory on the growth rates of a reef‐building coral,Acropora hyacinthuscommon throughout the Indo‐Pacific. Our study was conducted on the fore reef of Mo’orea, French Polynesia, where shallower coral populations have recovered more quickly than deeper populations after a major disturbance that culminated in 2010. Contrary to predictions of the light‐attenuation paradigm, water depth (5 vs. 10 vs. 17 m) did not influence coral growth, regardless from what depth corals were collected. However, the effects of corallivory varied by depth as coral predators significantly reduced the growth rates ofA. hyacinthusat 5 and 10 m depth, where the abundance of corallivores and rates of corallivory were greatest. There were no effects of predation on coral growth rates at 17 m, where the intensity of corallivory was lowest. Our results imply that corallivory is not a dominant factor establishing the distribution ofA. hyacinthuscorals across water depth. Instead, we found that partial predation may limit the potential for recovery ofA. hyacinthusin relatively shallow water, where this coral is most abundant. As the frequency and intensity of disturbances impacting coral reef ecosystems increase with climate change and other anthropogenic factors, chronic predation on corals by corallivorous fish may play an increasingly important role in coral community recovery.
High‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T determines all‐cause mortality in cancer patients: a single‐centre cohort study
Authors: Finke Daniel , Romann Sebastian W. , Heckmann Markus B. , Hund Hauke , Bougatf Nina , Kantharajah Ajith , Katus Hugo A. , Müller Oliver J. , Frey Norbert , Giannitsis Evangelos , Lehmann Lorenz H.
Published: August 2021

Aims

Cardio‐oncology is a growing interdisciplinary field which aims to improve cardiological care for cancer patients in order to reduce morbidity and mortality. The impact of cardiac biomarkers, echocardiographic parameters, and cardiological assessment regarding risk stratification is still unclear. We aimed to identify potential parameters that allow an early risk stratification of cancer patients.

Methods and results

In this cohort study, we evaluated 930 patients that were admitted to the cardio‐oncology outpatient clinic of the University Hospital Heidelberg from January 2016 to January 2019. We performed echocardiography, including Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) analysis and measured cardiac biomarkers including N‐terminal pro brain‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T levels (hs‐cTnT). Most patients were suffering from breast cancer (n = 450, 48.4%), upper gastrointestinal carcinoma (n = 99, 10.6%) or multiple myeloma (n = 51, 5.5%). At the initial visit, we observed 86.7% of patients having a preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF >50%). At the second follow up, still 78.9% of patients showed a preserved LVEF. Echocardiographic parameters or elevation of NT‐proBNP did not significantly correlate with all‐cause mortality (ACM) (logistic regression LVEF <50%: P = 0.46, NT‐proBNP: P = 0.16) and failed to identify high‐risk patients. In contrast, hs‐cTnT above the median (≥7 ng/L) was an independent marker to determine ACM (multivariant logistic regression, OR: 2.21, P = 0.0038) among all included patients. In particular, hs‐cTnT levels before start of a chemotherapy were predictive for ACM.

Conclusions

Based on our non‐selected cohort of cardio‐oncological patients, hs‐cTnT was able to identify patients with high mortality by using a low cutoff of 7 ng/L. We conclude that measurement of hs‐cTnT is an important tool to stratify the risk for mortality of cancer patients before starting chemotherapy.
αβ T cells replacing dermal and epidermal γδ T cells in Tcrd−/− mice express an MHC‐independent TCR repertoire
Authors: Binz Christoph , Bubke Anja , Sandrock Inga , Prinz Immo
Published: August 2021

The epidermis of mouse skin is usually populated by dendritic epidermal T cells (γδDETC) expressing an invariant Vγ5Vδ1+ TCR. In Tcrd−/− mice, skin‐resident γδDETC are replaced by αβDETC carrying polyclonal αβ TCRs. Although they exhibit a dendritic morphology, αβDETC were reported to be less functional than genuine γδDETC, likely because their TCR is unable to interact with the original TCR ligands of γδDETC. However, the TCR repertoire of those replacement DETC in Tcrd−/− mice might provide clues for understanding the development and selection of canonical γδDETC. Here, we compare the phenotype and TCR repertoires of wild‐type and Tcrd−/− mouse skin T cells. Our data reveal that αβDETC are CD4/CD8 double negative and express an MHC‐independent TCR repertoire. Furthermore, we identify a second MHC‐independent population of CD103hi CD4/ CD8 double‐negative αβ T cells in the dermis of Tcrd−/− mice.
What matters when developing oil price volatility forecasting frameworks?
Authors: Delis Panagiotis , Degiannakis Stavros , Filis George
Published: August 2021

Forecasting oil price volatility is considered of major importance for numerous stakeholders, including, policy makers, industries, and investors. This paper examines and evaluates the main factors that oil price volatility forecasters should consider before constructing their forecasting models. Such factors are related to (i) direct versus iterated forecasts, (ii) the incorporation of continuous and jump components, (iii) the importance of semi variance volatility measures, and (iv) ordinary least squares (OLS) versus time‐varying parameter (TVP) estimation procedures. We evaluate the performance of these factors for both the realized and implied volatility measures of the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil price, based on statistical loss functions, as well as their economic use. The results show that depending on whether end users are interested in forecasting the realized or the implied volatility, the factors influencing the accuracy of forecasts are different. In particular, for the realized volatility, direct forecasting based on TVP estimation procedure, as well as using the information obtained in the semi variance measures, is capable of producing significantly superior forecasts. By contrast, separating the continuous and the jump components of the realized volatility does not provide any added value to these forecasts. Turning to the oil price implied volatility index (OVX), based on the economic evaluation of our forecasts, the TVP estimation procedure seems to perform better. In addition, we find evidence that the continuous component and the semivariance measures of the realized volatility also yield better OVX forecasts in the longer run horizons.
Determination of chloramphenicol in meat samples using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Akter Mou Salma , Islam Rafiza , Shoeb Mohammad , Nahar Nilufar
Published: August 2021

Chloramphenicol (CAP), a bacteriostatic antibiotic, is used for the treatment of bacterial infections in human and animals. Continual exposure of CAP residues into animal tissues may lead to antibiotic resistance. For the protection of humans and animals from this problem, a fast and highly sensitive analytical method based on ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) was developed and validated in this study for the quantitative determination of CAP in poultry meat and beef samples. Quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) method was used for the extraction of CAP residues. The developed method was validated in terms of linearity, accuracy, precision, and specificity. Poultry meat and beef samples were extracted with 20 ml water–acetonitrile (1:1, v/v) and cleaned up by MgSO4, primary secondary amine, and C18 powder. The method was found to be linear in a wide concentration range, with correlation coefficient of higher than 0.999. The repeatability and reproducibility of this method were satisfactory. The achieved limit of detection and limit of quantification were 0.16 and 0.50 ng/g, respectively. Recoveries were estimated at 5 and 10 ng/g spiking levels in the range of 99%–111% with the coefficient of variation 0.48%–12.48% for spiked samples, and the matrix enhancement effects were mild in the range of 80%–85%. In this study, the levels of CAP residue in tested real samples were found below the detection limit. The method proved to be suitable for CAP determination in all kinds of samples tested and also efficient for the application of routine analysis.
Identification of the promising oleaster (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.) genotypes based on fruit quality‐related characters
Authors: Safdari Leila , Khadivi Ali
Published: August 2021

The fruits of oleaster (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.) are rich in nutritional value and contain protein, sugar, vitamins, and minerals. The present investigation was performed to evaluate the morphological variability of the naturally grown accessions of this species. There was considerable variation among the accessions based on all the traits measured. The range of fruit weight was from 0.32 to 3.04 g, with an average of 1.48. Fruit yield was significantly and positively correlated with tree growth vigor, canopy density, branching, branch density, and leaf density. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated nine components of data accounted for 74.93% of the total variance. Ward cluster analysis using Euclidean distance classified the accessions into two main clusters and showed significant differences among the accessions studied. Among the area studied, 14 accessions showed the highest value of fruit quality‐related characters, which are suitable for fresh consumption and health benefits. The results provided important information useful for selecting the preferred accessions for commercial cultivation and breeding programs.
Investigation on a parking control strategy for automotive proton exchange membrane fuel cell
Authors: Ma Tiancai , Zhu Dong , Xie Jialin , Lin Weikang , Yang Yanbo
Published: August 2021

In the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) for vehicles, the changes in gas composition and oxygen accumulation may exist during the parking process even by using a shut‐down strategy of oxygen consumption, which can lead to the hydrogen/air interface. However, this process of oxygen accumulation is often ignored. Thus, in this work, the diffusion rate of the gas, the gas composition changes, and the starting voltage of the PEMFC stack are discussed. According to the experiment, it is proved that the poor gas tightness of the stack results in the formation of the oxygen inside the stack during the parking process and the threshold parking time of no hydrogen inside the stack is above 1 h. Then, a parking control strategy is proposed by injecting hydrogen into the anode, and the hydrogen injection cycle is set as 1 h by the anodic hydrogen concentration. Based on the strategy, the starting voltage of the fuel cell is declined from 18 V to 3 V. That means the hydrogen/air interface is declined. Therefore, the durability of the PEMFC for vehicles can be enhanced.
Sphingosine kinase 2 is essential for remyelination following cuprizone intoxication
Authors: Song Huitong , McEwen Holly P. , Duncan Thomas , Lee Jun Yup , Teo Jonathan D. , Don Anthony S.
Published: August 2021

Therapeutics that promote oligodendrocyte survival and remyelination are needed to restore neurological function in demyelinating diseases. Sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) is an essential lipid metabolite that signals through five G‐protein coupled receptors. S1P receptor agonists such as Fingolimod are valuable immunosuppressants used to treat multiple sclerosis, and promote oligodendrocyte survival. However, the role for endogenous S1P, synthesized by the enzyme sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2), in oligodendrocyte survival and myelination has not been established. This study investigated the requirement for SphK2 in oligodendrocyte survival and remyelination using the cuprizone mouse model of acute demyelination, followed by spontaneous remyelination. Oligodendrocyte density did not differ between untreated wild‐type (WT) and SphK2 knockout (SphK2−/−) mice. However, cuprizone treatment caused significantly greater loss of mature oligodendrocytes in SphK2−/− compared to WT mice. Following cuprizone withdrawal, spontaneous remyelination occurred in WT but not SphK2−/− mice, even though progenitor and mature oligodendrocyte density increased in both genotypes. Levels of cytotoxic sphingosine and ceramide were higher in the corpus callosum of SphK2−/− mice, and in contrast to WT mice, did not decline following cuprizone withdrawal in SphK2−/− mice. We also observed a significant reduction in myelin thickness with aging in SphK2−/− compared to WT mice. These results provide the first evidence that SphK2, the dominant enzyme catalyzing S1P synthesis in the adult brain, is essential for remyelination following a demyelinating insult and myelin maintenance with aging. We propose that persistently high levels of sphingosine and ceramide, a direct consequence of SphK2 deficiency, may block remyelination.
A novel landmark for endonasal surgery of the pterygopalatine fossa and inferior orbital fissure: The orbito‐pterygo‐sphenoidal ligament
Authors: Li Lifeng , London Nyall R. , Prevedello Daniel M. , Carrau Ricardo L.
Published: August 2021

The pterygopalatine fossa contains a dense and complex array of neurovascular structures vulnerable to accidental surgical injury. This study aims to describe a novel landmark, the orbito‐pterygo‐sphenoidal ligament (OPSL), and implications of this structure for surgery in the pterygopalatine fossa and the inferior orbital fissure. Six cadaveric specimens (12 sides) were dissected using an endonasal approach to expose the periosteal layers associated with the pterygopalatine fossa and orbit. The thickened triangular‐shaped ligament at their confluence was termed the OPSL. Dimensions of its lateral, inferior, and medial borders were measured, and their anatomical relationships defined. The pterygopalatine ganglion and the maxillary nerve lie immediately inferior and deep into the OPSL. The superior aspect of the posterior nasoseptal artery and nerve are covered by the medial OPSL. The lateral and inferior borders of the OPSL are contiguous with the periorbita and the periosteum of the pterygopalatine fossa, respectively. Along the medial border of the ligament, the openings of the palatovaginal fissure, vidian canal, and foramen rotundum were sequentially identified in a medial to lateral trajectory. The length of the lateral, inferior, and medial borders of the triangular OPSL were 13.25 ± 0.62, 14.25 ± 0.45, and 12.08 ± 0.90 mm, respectively. The OPSL is a thick, triangular‐shaped fascial confluence, which may serve as a landmark for procedures within the pterygopalatine fossa and the inferior orbital fissure.
Application of HAM to laminar boundary layer flow over a wedge with an external magnetic field
Authors: Nandeppanavar Mahantesh M. , Madhusudhan R. , Nargund Achala L. , Sathyanarayana S. B. , Kemparaju M. C.
Published: August 2021

The incompressible laminar along with injection or suction over a wedge for a boundary layer flow is studied. Falkner–Skan transformations reduce the governing partial differential equations (PDEs) to two nonlinear coupled PDEs and are solved by the homotopy analysis method (HAM). The variation of a dimensionless temperature and velocity profiles and for , , and to the nonidentical values of the parameter for injection/suction has been shown in the graph. The results hence obtained show that the flow field is determined by the existence of the applied magnetic field. The finite difference method is applied to the reduced PDEs and the velocity and temperature profiles are compared with the HAM solutions and depicted graphically. To distinguish singularities in the graph, we have applied Pade for the HAM series solution, which is depicted in graphs for all three cases. We have also estimated the radius of convergence of HAM solutions by Domb–Sykes plot for injection, no suction, and suction respectively. The important observation made by us through HAM and numerical solution is the existence of flow separation for injection, which is not shown by previous authors.
Aluminium in cosmetics and personal care products
Authors: Sanajou Sonia , Şahin Gönül , Baydar Terken
Published: August 2021

Usage of inorganic ingredients like aluminium salts in cosmetics and personal care products has been a concern for producers and consumers. Although aluminium is used to treat hyperhidrosis, some worries have been raised about aluminium's role in breast cancer, breast cyst and Alzheimer's disease. The human population is exposed to aluminium from vaccines, diet, and drinking water, but the frequent use of aluminium‐based cosmetics might add additional local exposure. This paper reviews literature to determine if aluminium‐based products may pose potential harm to the body. The dermal absorption of aluminium is not widely understood. It is not yet known whether aluminium can travel from the skin to brain to cause Alzheimer's disease. Aluminium may cause gene instability, alter gene expression or enhance oxidative stress, but the carcinogenicity of aluminium has not been proved yet. Until now, epidemiological researches were based on oral information, which lacks consistency, and the results are conflicting. Future studies should target real‐life‐based long‐time exposure to antiperspirants and other aluminium‐containing cosmetics and personal care products.
Terpolymer‐chitosan membranes as biomaterial
Authors: Bravi Costantino María Leticia , Belluzo María Soledad , Oberti Tamara G. , Cortizo Ana M. , Cortizo María Susana
Published: August 2021

The present study shows a novel copolymer synthesis, its application in the membrane design and the physicochemical and biological characterization of the biomaterial obtained. Terpolymer starting diisopropyl fumarate (F), vinyl benzoate (V) and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (H) was prepared by thermal radical polymerization. This polymer (FVH) was obtained in several monomer ratios and characterized by spectroscopic and chromatographic methods (FTIR, 1H‐NMR and SEC). The best relationship of F:V:H was 5:4:1, which allows efficient interaction with chitosan through cross‐linking with borax to achieve scaffolds for potential biomedical applications. The membranes were obtained by solvent casting and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), swelling behavior and mechanical properties. In addition, we studied the possible cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of these materials using a murine macrophage‐like cell line (RAW 264.7) and bone marrow mesenchymal progenitor cells (BMPC), respectively, taking into account their intended applications. The results of this study show that the terpolymer obtained and its combination with a natural polymer is a very interesting strategy to obtain a biomaterial with possible applications in regenerative medicine and this could be extended to other structurally related systems.
Reduced expression of circRNA hsa_circ_001888 in gastric cancer and its clinical significance
Authors: Shi Peina , Song Haojun , Ding Xiaoyun
Published: August 2021

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel family of endogenous RNAs. Recent studies have demonstrated that circRNAs are potential novel biomarkers for diagnosing cancers. However, little is known about the role of circRNAs in gastric cancer (GC). This study aimed to identify the relationship between GC and a new circRNA named hsa_circ_001888.

Methods

Hsa_circ_001888 expression levels were measured by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) in GC cell lines, tissues, and plasma samples. Then, the associations between the expression level of hsa_circ_001888 and the clinicopathological features of patients with GC were further investigated. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated to evaluate the diagnostic value of hsa_circ_001888.

Results

In this study, hsa_circ_001888 was first found to be significantly downregulated in GC cell lines (AGS and MKN‐45), tissues, and plasma samples compared to control samples. Clinicopathological features showed that the expression of hsa_circ_001888 in GC tissues was associated with differentiation and in GC plasma linked with serum CEA and CA19‐9 levels. The areas under the ROC curves of hsa_circ_001888 in tissues and plasma were 0.654 and 0.66, respectively.

Conclusions

Hsa_circ_001888 may serve as a potential biomarker in the diagnosis of GC and may be involved in GC development.
Sestrin2 and Beclin1 levels in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Saeedi Vahid , Nourbakhsh Mona , Nourbakhsh Mitra , Haghighi Ladan , Kamalzadeh Leila , Ezzati Mobasser Samira , Razzaghy‐Azar Maryam
Published: August 2021

Background

Sestrin2 and beclin1 are two newly found proteins that have essential roles in autophagy. This study attempted to evaluate the plasma concentrations of sestrin2 and beclin1 in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and healthy controls and to explore the clinical value of these proteins as novel biomarkers for PCOS.

Methods

In this case‐control study, plasma levels of sestrin2 and beclin1, fasting blood sugar (FBS), lipid profile, insulin, and androgens were evaluated in 63 women (31 patients and 32 controls). Sestrin2 and beclin1 levels were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, logistic regression, and ROC curve analyses were used in this study.

Results

Plasma sestrin2 levels of the subjects with PCOS (40.74 [24.39–257.70]) were significantly lower than those of healthy subjects (255.78 [25.46–528.66]; p‐value = 0.040). ROC curve analysis showed that a cutoff value of 420.5 ng/L had an appropriate sensitivity (83.87%) and specificity (46.88%) for discriminating individuals with and without PCOS, with the area under the curve (95% CI) of 0.648 (0.518 to 0.764), p = 0.036. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups concerning plasma levels of beclin1, biochemical parameters, blood pressure, and anthropometric features.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the dysregulation of sestrin2 as a marker of autophagy in PCOS and its potential usefulness as a novel biomarker for PCOS. Further research is needed to better understand the role of this protein in the pathophysiology of PCOS and its value as a diagnostic tool for the evaluation of PCOS patients.
Activities and relationships with parents as key ecological assets that encourage personal positive youth development
Authors: Orejudo Santos , Balaguer Álvaro , Osorio Alfonso , de la Rosa Pedro Antonio , Lopez‐del Burgo Cristina
Published: August 2021

Scientific literature has shown contextual factors that predict youth development, and family variables are the most important ones. In this study, we propose a model that explains the relation between family variables (relationship with parents and family activities) and Personal Positive Youth Development (assessed through Life satisfaction, Interiority, and Self‐control), across different cultures. We recruited 2867 adolescents aged 12–18 years (52% female) from three countries: Spain, Mexico, and Peru. They completed an anonymous questionnaire. We run exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and structural equation modelling, testing for invariance across countries and sexes. In all subsamples, positive family relationships were associated with adolescents' Life Satisfaction. In addition, time invested on family activities was associated with Interiority and with Self‐control. However, some differences across cultures and sex were found in the specific associations. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed regarding how to improve adolescent development through family life.
Natural and Synthetic Cannabinoids: Pharmacology, Uses, Adverse Drug Events, and Drug Interactions
Authors: Brown Joshua D. , Rivera Rivera Kevin J. , Hernandez Leilanie Y. Crespo , Doenges Matthew R. , Auchey India , Pham Thanh , Goodin Amie J.
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this narrative review is to describe the current use environment of both natural and synthetic cannabinoids while providing context for cannabinoid chemistry and pharmacology. In addition to a long history of recreational and nonmedical use, natural cannabinoids are increasingly used as prescription products, through medical cannabis programs, and as consumer health products. Despite anecdotal safety evidence, cannabis and cannabinoids are pharmacologically complex and pose risks for adverse drug events and drug‐drug interactions. Synthetic cannabinoids, particularly agonists of cannabinoid receptors, are more potent than natural cannabinoids and can lead to more severe reactions and medical emergencies. This review provides a summary of approved uses and an overview of mechanisms of action for adverse drug events with natural and synthetic cannabinoids. Clinical considerations for special populations that may be at heightened risk for drug‐drug interactions and adverse drug events while using natural or synthetic cannabinoids are examined, and recommendations are provided.
Pharmacology of Drugs Used as Stimulants
Authors: Docherty James R. , Alsufyani Hadeel A.
Published: August 2021

Psychostimulant, cardiovascular, and temperature actions of stimulants involve adrenergic (norepinephrine), dopaminergic (dopamine), and serotonergic (serotonin) pathways. Stimulants such as amphetamine, 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), or mephedrone can act on the neuronal membrane monoamine transporters NET, DAT, and SERT and/or the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 to inhibit reuptake of neurotransmitter or cause release by reverse transport. Stimulants may have additional effects involving pre‐ and postsynaptic/junctional receptors for norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin and other receptors. As a result, stimulants may have a wide range of possible actions. Agents with cocaine or MDMA‐like actions can induce serious and potentially fatal adverse events via thermodysregulatory, cardiovascular, or other mechanisms. MDMA‐like stimulants may cause hyperthermia that can be life threathening. Recreational users of stimulants should be aware of the dangers of hyperthermia in a rave/club environment.
The Epidemiology of Drug Abuse
Authors: Ignaszewski Martha J.
Published: August 2021

Many Americans use alcohol and recreational drugs. Some will develop substance use disorders that affect a person's brain and behavior, leading to continued use despite problems caused. We review the epidemiology of addiction in the United States, including changes in use patterns over time, highlighting rates in adolescents and young adults, as well as adults. An overview of the health and societal impacts of substance use is provided alongside the importance of multimodal, evidence‐based treatment comprising psychosocial interventions and medication management. The article concludes by exploring the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on people who use drugs and their access to treatment.
Activation of defense response in common bean against stem rot disease triggered byTrichoderma erinaceumandTrichoderma viride
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Shukla Vaishali , Dubey Manish Kumar , Upadhyay Ram Sanmukh
Published: August 2021

White mold and stem rot is a common disease ofPhaseolus vulgariscaused bySclerotinia sclerotiorum. Biological control is a promising alternative for the control of this disease. In the present study, twoTrichodermaspp.,T. erinaceumandT. viride, and the consortium of both were evaluated as biocontrol agents against sclerotinia stem rot disease. The results revealed thatT. erinaceum(NAIMCC‐F‐02171) andT. viride(NAIMCC‐F‐02500) when applied alone, significantly suppressed the infection rate ofS. sclerotiorumand increased the rate of survival of plants by 74.5%. On the contrary, the combination of both theTrichodermaspp. was found to be more effective in reducing stem rot by 57.2% and increasing the survival of plants by 87.5% when compared to the individualTrichodermaapplications. Further, the exogenous supplementation ofTrichodermaactivated antioxidative machineries, such as peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbic acid in the plant. Besides, hydrogen peroxide and superoxide‐free radical accumulation were also found to be reduced whenT. erinaceumandT. viridewere used either individually or in combination under the pathogen‐challenged condition. Additionally, the photopigments in the bioprimed plants were markedly increased. Moreover, the combined inoculation of the two isolates yielded the highest records of growth parameters (root weight, shoot length, and leaf weight) compared with individual inoculation. Therefore, based on the above results, it was concluded that the combination ofT. erinaceumandT. viridecan be effectively used as an alternative to control white mold and stem rot caused byS. sclerotiorum.
Isolation and characterization of chitinolytic bacterium, Escherichia fergusonii AMC01 from insectivorous bat, Taphozous melanopogon
Authors: Gracy Jenifer Sahayanathan , Marimuthu Ganapathy , Raghuram Hanumanthan
Published: August 2021

Chitinases are capable of hydrolyzing insoluble chitin into its oligo and monomeric parts and have received increased consideration because of their wide scope of biotechnological applications. The commercial application of microbial chitinase is appealing due to the relative ease of enormous production and to meet the current world demands. This study aimed at isolation and characterization of chitin degrading bacteria from the gut of Indian tropical insectivorous black‐bearded tomb bat, Taphozous melanopogon. The isolated bacterial strains were characterized through biochemical analysis and nucleic acid‐based approaches by 16S ribosomal RNA amplification and sequencing. The BLAST (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool) and phylogenetic analysis showed that the bacterial strain exhibited a close resemblance with Escherichia fergusonii. The chitinolytic activity of the E. fergusonii AMC01 was identified using supplemented colloidal chitin with agar medium. Compiling all, these findings would facilitate in constructing a database and presumably promote the use of E. fergusonii AMC01 as an efficient strain for the chitinase production.
Bandits, Militants, and Martyrs: Sub‐state Violence as Claim to Authority in Late Antique North Africa
Authors: Goalwin Gregory J.
Published: August 2021

Fourth Century North Africa was a site of intense religious and political conflict. Emerging from a period of persecution and newly legitimized by the Roman state, the Christian Church immediately fractured into two competing camps. Now known as the Donatist schism, this fracture was the result of competing claims to religious authority between two camps of bishops, but the doctrinal debate at its core precipitated a specific form of violence: attacks on clergy and property perpetrated by roving groups of militant bandits. Known as circumcellions, these bands acquired a perverse reputation for religious zeal, a desire for martyrdom, and what their opponents described as the ‘madness’ and ‘insanity’ of their violence. Here I analyze sources produced by both Donatists and Catholics to trace patterns of circumcellion violence. I draw on borderland theory and research on non‐state violence to argue that such acts were not mad, but rather the result of strategic efforts to consolidate religious and political power. In this, Donatism and the sectarian violence that accompanied it provide important insights into how banditry and peasant rebellions can serve as alternate sources of social and political power, avenues through which heterodox movements challenge the power state and religious hierarchies alike.
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering of thiram: Quantitative and theoretical analyses
Authors: Oliveira Marcelo J. S. , Martin Cibely S. , Rubira Rafael J. G. , Batagin‐Neto Augusto , Constantino Carlos J. L. , Aroca Ricardo F.
Published: August 2021

The development of strategies to monitor the applications of pesticides is of primary importance. In the present report, two aspects of the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect of the fungicide thiram were investigated: quantitative analysis using the standard addition method and the thiram adsorption mechanism onto Ag nanostructures using theoretical approach. Experimentally, SERS intensity varies linearly from 1.0 × 10−8 to 4.0 × 10−7 mol/L with thiram concentration leading to a limit of detection of 1.2 × 10−8 mol/L for the band at 560 cm−1 and 1.7 × 10−9 mol/L for 1386 cm−1. The loss of linearity (above 10−6 mol/L) was associated with changes in the Ag colloid aggregation, also indicated by complementary analyses via UV‐Vis extinction spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential. The differences in the spectral profiles observed for thiram Raman powder and SERS are ascribed to S–S cleavage, leading the degraded thiram adsorbing to Ag surface not only through S atoms but also through methyl groups.
Interference‐enhanced deep‐ultraviolet Raman signals of hexagonal boron nitride flake and its underlying silicon substrate
Authors: Liu Tao , Lin Miao‐Ling , Leng Yu‐Chen , Cong Xin , Zhang Xin , Tan Ping‐Heng
Published: August 2021

We take hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) flakes exfoliated on SiO
/Si substrates as a prototype, to demonstrate how to enhance the Raman signals both from ultra‐thin layered materials and the underlying opaque substrate excited by deep ultraviolet (DUV) laser. We found that the interference effect in the hBN/SiO
/Si multilayered structure can largely enhance Raman intensity of hBN flake and the underlying Si substrate under 266‐nm excitation. This enhancement effect is more significant than that under visible excitation. With increasing the thickness of SiO
layer in the substrate, the corresponding hBN and Si Raman intensity can vary by up to ∼ 4 and ∼2 orders of magnitude under 266‐nm excitation, respectively. This method can be applicable to enhance Raman signal from other two‐dimensional materials under DUV excitation by tuning the thickness of SiO
layer in the SiO
/Si substrate.
Perioperative blood transfusions and survival in resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients given multimodality therapy
Authors: Newhook Timothy E. , Prakash Laura R. , Soliz Jose , Hancher‐Hodges Shannon , Speer B. Bryce , Wilks Jonathan A. , Bruno Morgan L. , Dewhurst Whitney L. , Arvide Elsa M. , Maxwell Jessica E. , Ikoma Naruhiko , Kim Michael P. , Lee Jeffrey E. , Katz Matthew H. G. , Tzeng Ching‐Wei D.
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives

The impact of perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) on outcomes for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients given multimodality therapy (MMT) remains undefined. We sought to evaluate the association of PBT with survival after PDAC resection.

Methods

Pancreatectomy patients (July 2011–December 2017) who received MMT were abstracted from a prospective database. Overall survival (OS) was compared by PBT within 30 days, 24 h (24HR‐BT), or 24 h until 30 days (Postop‐BT).

Results

Most (76.6%) of 312 MMT patients underwent neoadjuvant therapy (NT). Eighty‐nine patients (28.5%) received PBT; 58 (18.6%) 24HR‐BT, and 31 (9.9%) Postop‐BT. Compared with surgery‐first, NT patients received more 24HR‐BTs (22.2% vs. 6.8%, p = 0.003) and PBTs overall (32.6% vs. 15.1%, p = 0.004). Overall median OS was 45 months. The association of PBT with shorter median OS appeared limited to first 24‐h transfusions (34 months 24HR‐BT vs. 48 months Postop‐BT vs. 53 months no‐PBT, p = 0.009) and was dose‐dependent, with a median OS of 52 months for 0 units 24HR‐BT, 35 months for 1 unit, and 25 months for ≥2 units (p = 0.004). Independent predictors of OS included node‐positivity (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.93, p < 0.001), perineural invasion (HR: 1.64, p = 0.050), postoperative pancreatic fistula (HR: 1.94, p = 0.018), and 24HR‐BT (HR: 1.75, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Transfusions given within 24 h are associated with dose‐dependent decreases in survival after pancreatectomy for PDAC.
Large‐Scale Huygens’ Metasurfaces for Holographic 3D Near‐Eye Displays
Authors: Song Weitao , Liang Xinan , Li Shiqiang , Li Dongdong , Paniagua‐Domínguez Ramón , Lai Keng Heng , Lin Qunying , Zheng Yuanjin , Kuznetsov Arseniy I.
Published: August 2021

Novel display technologies aim at providing users with increasingly immersive experiences. It is a long‐sought dream to generate three‐dimensional (3D) scenes with high resolution and continuous depth, which can be overlaid with the real world. Current attempts, however, fail in providing either truly 3D information, or large viewing area and angle, strongly limiting the user immersion. Here, a proof‐of‐concept solution for this problem is developed. A compact holographic 3D near‐eye display with a large exit pupil of 10 mm × 8.66 mm is realized. The 3D image is generated from a highly transparent Huygens’ metasurface hologram with large (>108) pixel count and subwavelength pixels, fabricated via deep‐ultraviolet immersion photolithography on 300 mm glass wafers. High‐quality virtual 3D scenes with ∼50k active data points and continuous depth ranging from 0.5 to 2 m, overlaid with the real world and easily viewed by naked eye are experimentally demonstrated. A new design method for holographic near‐eye displays is introduced that is able to provide both parallax and accommodation cues, solving the vergence–accommodation conflict existing in current 3D displays. Additionally, the complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) compatible, industry‐grade fabrication technology employed opens new avenues for the large‐scale, mass manufacturing of metasurfaces.
Low‐Threshold Bound State in the Continuum Lasers in Hybrid Lattice Resonance Metasurfaces
Authors: Yang Jhen‐Hong , Huang Zhen‐Ting , Maksimov Dmitrii N. , Pankin Pavel S. , Timofeev Ivan V. , Hong Kuo‐Bing , Li Heng , Chen Jia‐Wei , Hsu Chu‐Yuan , Liu Yi‐Yun , Lu Tien‐Chang , Lin Tzy‐Rong , Yang Chan‐Shan , Chen Kuo‐Ping
Published: August 2021

Bound states in the continuum (BICs) have attracted considerable research attention due to their infinite quality factor (Q‐factor) and extremely localized fields, which drastically enhances light–matter interactions and yields high potential in topological photonics and quantum optics. In this study, the room temperature directional lasing normal to a BIC metasurface is demonstrated with hybrid surface lattice resonances. Compared to the plasmonic nanolasers, the BIC metasurface lasers possess directional radiation and a larger emission volume. The high Q‐factor resonance of BIC metasurface overcomes the limitation of a large mode volume in achieving low‐threshold lasing. In addition, a design rule is proposed to prevent the occurrence of wavelength shift when the Q‐factor changes; thus, the lasing thresholds for different BIC metasurfaces can be compared. In this work, the high localization ability of BICs is used to achieve the low lasing threshold (1.25 nJ) at the room temperature. The “light in–light out” diagram of the aforementioned laser based on simulations and experiments exhibits a large spontaneous emission coupling factor (β = 0.9) and the S‐curve. The device developed in this study can be used in various applications, such as quantum emitters, optical sensing, nonlinear optics, and topological states engineering.