bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An empirical confirmation of diversified bet hedging as a survival strategy in unpredictably varying environments
Authors: Pinceel Tom , Buschke Falko , Geerts Aurora , Vanoverbeke Joost , Brendonck Luc , Vanschoenwinkel Bram
Published: July 2021

Environmental change jeopardizes the survival of species from variable environments by making the occurrence of favorable conditions less predictable. For organisms with long‐lived propagules (e.g., spores, eggs, or seeds), the theory of diversified bet hedging (DBH) predicts that delayed hatching over different growing seasons can help populations avoid extinction. Empirical observations in different organisms are consistent with DBH, but integrated tests that simultaneously validate the main theoretical assumptions and predictions are lacking. In this study, we combine field and multi‐generational lab experiments to provide a complete test of DBH. Consistent with DBH predictions, resting egg clutches of the fairy shrimp Branchipodopsis wolfi, which inhabits rain‐fed temporary rock pool environments with unpredictable inundations, hatched partially over a succession of inundations with identical hatching cues. Bet hedging was more common in populations from more unpredictable habitats where hatching fractions were lower. This differentiation in hatching strategies was preserved after two generations under common garden conditions, which implies intrinsic (epi‐)genetic control of hatching. Finally, a demographic model confirmed that lower hatching fractions increase long‐term population growth in unpredictable habitats. With this paper we propose a method to calculate probabilities of successful recruitment for organisms that use imperfect cues and show that this drives selection for variation in life history strategies as part of a DBH strategy.
NON‐Ligated N‐Heterocyclic Tetrylenes
Authors: Krämer Felix , Luff Martin S. , Radius Udo , Weigend Florian , Breher Frank
Published: July 2021

We report on the synthesis of N‐heterocyclic tetrylenes ligated by the NON‐donor framework 4,5‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl‐amino)‐2,7‐di‐tert‐butyl‐9,9‐dimethylxanthene. The molecular structures of the germylene (3), stannylene (4) and plumbylene (5) where determined by X‐ray diffraction studies. Furthermore, we present quantum chemical studies on the σ‐donor and π‐acceptor properties of 3–5. Additionally, we report on the reactivity of the tetrylenes towards the transition metal carbonyls [Rh(CO)2Cl]2, [W(CO)6] and [Ni(CO)4]. The isolated complexes (6 and 7) show the differing reactivity of NHTs compared to NHCs. Instead of just forming the anticipated complex [(NON)Sn−Rh(CO)2Cl], 4 inserts into the Rh−Cl bond to afford [(NON)Sn(Cl)Rh(CO)(C6H6)] (6, additional CO/C6H6 exchange) and [(NON)Sn(Cl)Rh2(CO)4Cl] (7). By avoiding halogenated transition metal precursors in order to prevent insertion reactions, germylene 3 shows “classical” coordination chemistry towards {Ni(CO)3} forming the complex [(NON)Ge−Ni(CO)3] (8).
New Understanding on an Old Compound: Insights on the Origin of Chain Sequence Defects and Their Impact on the Electronic Structure of AuCN
Authors: Velasco‐Arias Donaji , Mojica Rodrigo , Zumeta‐Dubé Inti , Ruíz‐Ruíz Fabían , Puente‐Lee Iván , Reguera Edilso
Published: July 2021

Gold cyanide, AuCN, despite its simple formula unit, has surprising structural features not completely understood to date. The present contribution discusses the results of a structural study on the nature of defects found in 1D AuCN when submitted to mechanical grinding. This is an appropriate treatment to induce structural defects in that solid, which were identified for the first time by combining XRD, XPS, Raman, and UV‐vis techniques. Furthermore, it is striking that the CN−Au−CN and CN−Au−NC sequences get disordered upon grinding while the NC−Au−CN gets ordered. Additionally, it is shown that the atomic chains apart from getting unraveled during the grinding process, are preferentially disrupted at the Au−N bond. The induced defects have a large impact on the UV‐vis absorption spectrum of AuCN.
Analysis of amino acids in cell culture supernatant using capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection
Authors: Mikkonen Saara , Emmer Åsa
Published: July 2021

CE‐C4D methods for the analysis of amino acids (AAs) are presented. Combining the results from two methods with acetic acid and cyclodextrin‐based BGEs, 20 proteinogenic AAs could be analyzed using CE. CE‐C4D was also, for the first time, applied to analyze free AAs in samples of mammalian cell culture supernatant. After dilution as only sample preparation, combining the results of the two CE methods allowed monitoring the concentration changes of 17 AAs in samples taken during the cultivation of CHO cells.
Three‐liquid‐phase salting‐out extraction of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)‐rich oils from Euphausia superba
Authors: Zeb Liaqat , Teng Xin‐Nan , Shafiq Muhammad , Wang Shu‐Chang , Xiu Zhi‐Long , Su Zhi‐Guo
Published: July 2021

The TLPSOES parameters were optimized by response surface methodology using Box–Behnken design, which were 16.5% w/w of ammonium citrate, 17.5% w/w of ethanol, and 46% w/w of n‐hexane at 70 min of stirring time. Under optimized conditions the extraction efficiency attained was 90.91 ± 0.97% of EPA, 90.02 ± 1.04% of DHA, and 91.85 ± 1.11% of KO in the top n‐hexane phase. The highest extraction efficiency of proteins and flavonoids, i.e. 88.34 ± 1.35% and 79.67 ± 1.13%, was recorded in the solid interface and ethanol phase, respectively. The KO extracted by TLPSOES system consisted of lowest fluoride level compared to the conventional method and whole wet krill biomass. The TLPSOES is a potential candidate for nutraceutical industry of KO extraction from wet krill biomass.
Musa kattuvazhana (Musaceae): Rediscovery and additional notes on a critically endangered species from Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: MosaChristas Kithiyon , Karthick Ravikumar , Kowsalya Elumalai , Jaquline Chinna Rani I
Published: July 2021

A wild banana species, Musa kattuvazhana K.C.Jacob, belongs to Musa sect. Rhodochlamys. It is now rediscovered in Tamil Nadu, India after an interval of 67 years since Nayar's first identification in 1952, Musa banksii (F.Muell) var. singampatti T.G.Nayar. This critically endangered species was first collected from the type locality in the Tirunelveli hills of Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, India. In the present study, it is described on the basis of the morphological characteristics as observed in the field. In addition, photographs, relevant taxonomic notes and ethnobotanical uses of M. kattuvazhana are provided.
Septemeranthus(Loranthaceae), a new monotypic genus from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India and its relationship with allied genera
Authors: Singh Lal Ji
Published: July 2021

A new showy mistletoe genus,SeptemeranthusL.J. Singh with a type species,S. nicobaricusL.J. Singh sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It is an aerial branch hemi‐parasite onHorsfieldia glabra(Blume) Warb. (Myrsticaceae). The conservation status, host inventory, germination ecology and remarks on its relationship with allied genera are given.Septemeranthusis distinct in vegetative morphology, inflorescence architecture and floral characters: leaves with long apex, camptodromous venation, coraceous, 5 bracts with brown margins, 3‐7 flowered racemose, 7 merous flowers, urceolate ovary, earthen pot shape fruits with prominent bracts and seeds with dark vertical streaks.
Taraxacum sect. Austropaludosa, a new section allied to T. sect. Palustria (Compositae, Crepidinae)
Authors: Štěpánek Jan , Kirschner Jan
Published: July 2021

The broadly understood Taraxacum sect. Palustria was examined and found heterogeneous on the basis of a new ample material from the Balkan Peninsula. A group of eighteen species was recognized, characterized by achenes usually densely spinulose and abruptly to subabruptly narrowing in the cone, appressed or loosely appressed outer phyllaries numerous, often imbricate or subimbricate, with an evenly deep to dark olivaceous‐green abaxial surface and a conspicuous, very narrow whitish border, polliniferous anthers and triploidy. The relatively clear‐cut group is described as a new section, Taraxacum sect. Austropaludosa. Members of the new section are distributed in central and eastern Balkan Peninsula, Turkey, southernmost Ukraine, one species reaches Iran and Iraq; only a single species occupies a Central European geographical range. Two new species are described, T. (Austropaludosa) favorabile from Bulgaria and North Macedonia, characterized by a broadly winged petiole, outer phyllaries appressed to loosely appressed ovate‐lanceolate, dark olivaceous‐green, with a distinct but very narrow whitish border, and T. (Palustria) siticulosum from Bulgaria, a species allied to T. scaturiginosum and T. lilianae, distinct in having very numerous outer phyllaries, often distally erect‐arcuate, almost entire leaf lobes, and short achenes with a ± cylindrical cone only 0.5–0.8 mm long.
Advancements in nanotechnology for food science and industry
Authors: Jagtiani Ekta
Published: July 2021

The food industry will be impacted by the acceleration of nanotechnology, its creative applications and constant advancements. Nanostructured materials are utilized to encapsulate food components, packaging and nanosensors. These materials make the compound more soluble, bioavailable and increase its delivery speed, while also keeping the active components safe throughout production and storage. The review outlines the effects of nanotechnology on food systems and describes the outcomes of antimicrobial nanostructural materials on bacteria. It also highlights the characteristics of food‐nanotechnology along with its existing and possible future applications in food science. The potential for nanoparticles to be used in the food industry to supply customers with safe, contaminant‐free food and to increase the acceptance of the food due to its enhanced functional characteristics has been summarized as well.
Glycosaminoglycan from Ostrea rivularis attenuates hyperlipidemia and regulates gut microbiota in high‐cholesterol diet‐fed zebrafish
Authors: Kong Yan , Li Ying , Dai Zi‐Ru , Qin Mei , Fan He‐Liang , Hao Jun‐Guang , Zhang Chen‐Xiao , Zhong Qiu‐Ping , Qi Cen , Wang Pei
Published: July 2021

Hyperlipidemia an immense group of acquired or genetic metabolic disorders that is characterized by an excess of lipids in the bloodstream. Altogether, they have a high prevalence worldwide and constitute a major threat to human health. Glycosaminoglycans (GAG) are natural biomolecules that have hypolipidemic activity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential hypolipidemic effect of glycosaminoglycans extracted from Ostrea rivularis (OGAG) on hyperlipidemic zebrafish, as well as the possible underlying mechanism of such effect. Dietary supplementation with OGAG during 4 weeks significantly reduced the serum and hepatic lipid levels and the hepatosomatic index in hyperlipidemic zebrafish. In addition, histopathological showed that OGAG supplementation decreases the volume and number of lipid droplets in hepatocytes. Transcriptome and real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the gene expression levels of PPARγ, SCD, HMGRA, ACAT2, HMGCS, and HMGCR were significantly downregulated by OGAG treatment in hepatocytes, whereas those of CD36, FABP2, FABP6, ABCG5, and CYP7A1 were significantly upregulated. This suggests that the hypolipidemic effect of OGAG relies on increasing the ketogenic metabolism of fatty acids, inhibiting cholesterol synthesis, and enhancing the transformation of cholesterol to bile acid. Furthermore, OGAG treatment improved gut microbiota imbalance by reducing the Firmicutes‐to‐Bacteroidetes ratio, increasing the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria (Bacteroidetes, Verrucomicrobia, Acidobacteria, and Sphingomonas), and reducing the relative abundance of harmful bacteria (Proteobacteria, Cohaesibacter, Vibrio, and Terrisporobacter). These findings highlight the potential benefit of implementing OGAG as a dietary supplement to prevent and treat hyperlipidemia.
Neurotensin receptor 2 is induced in astrocytes and brain endothelial cells in relation to neuroinflammation following pilocarpine‐induced seizures in rats
Authors: Kyriatzis Grigorios , Bernard Anne , Bôle Angélique , Pflieger Guillaume , Chalas Petros , Masse Maxime , Lécorché Pascaline , Jacquot Guillaume , Ferhat Lotfi , Khrestchatisky Michel
Published: July 2021

Neurotensin (NT) acts as a primary neurotransmitter and neuromodulator in the CNS and has been involved in a number of CNS pathologies including epilepsy. NT mediates its central and peripheral effects by interacting with the NTSR1, NTSR2, and Sort1/NTSR3 receptor subtypes. To date, little is known about the precise expression of the NT receptors in brain neural cells and their regulation in pathology. In the present work, we studied the cellular distribution of the NTSR2 protein in the rat hippocampus and questioned whether its expression was modulated in conditions of neuroinflammation using a model of temporal lobe epilepsy induced by pilocarpine. This model is characterized by a rapid and intense inflammatory reaction with reactive gliosis in the hippocampus. We show that NTSR2 protein is expressed in hippocampal astrocytes and its expression increases together with astrocyte reactivity following induction of status epilepticus. NTSR2 immunoreactivity is also increased in astrocytes proximal to blood vessels and their end‐feet, and in endothelial cells. Proinflammatory factors such as IL1β and LPS induced NTSR2 mRNA and protein in cultured astroglial cells. Antagonizing NTSR2 with SR142948A decreased NTSR2 expression as well as astroglial reactivity. Together, our results suggest that NTSR2 is implicated in astroglial and gliovascular inflammation and that targeting the NTSR2 receptor may open new avenues in the regulation of neuroinflammation in CNS diseases.
Use of monopolar microelectrodes and radiofrequency in the treatment of arytenoid edema after partial horizontal laryngectomy and radiotherapy
Authors: Basterra Jorge , Oishi Natsuki , López Isabel , Otero María , Sánchez Alvaro , Zapater Enrique
Published: July 2021

We evaluated the tissue reduction effects using monopolar microelectrodes (MME) coupled to a radiofrequency (RF) generator in arytenoid edema caused by postoperative radiotherapy in larynx. This is a retrospective transversal study, which included 15 patients with supraglottic laryngeal carcinoma. All the patients had undergone a partial horizontal laryngectomy and bilateral neck dissection followed by postoperative radiotherapy. The studied group of patients presented laryngeal stenosis defined by arytenoid edema as a complication, requiring permanent tracheostomy for mean of 12 months. The surgical procedure for treating the edema was the transoral approach of the larynx by microlaryngoscopy under general anesthesia; using 180° MME coupled to a 4‐MHz RF generator delivering 15 W using coagulation mode. A total of 11 (73%) patients were decannulated. The median time for decannulation was 10 weeks. No complications were reported. After 2 years of follow‐ups, no case of re‐stenosis was found. MME coupled to RF is a very efficient method to treat arytenoid edema after adjuvant radiotherapy.
Experimental investigation on subcooling of liquid hydrogen by helium gas injection through evacuation
Authors: Starvin M. S. , Edwin M. , Kumaresan K.
Published: July 2021

Subcooling is the process of bringing down the temperature of liquids lower than that of the boiling point of the corresponding vapor pressure. The performance of subcooling of cryogenic liquids mainly depends on the heat‐inleak of the system, the helium injection mass flow rate, helium injection temperature, and helium injection nozzle pattern. This paper presents an alternative method, by making use of the least heat in the leakage of the liquid hydrogen storage container, which is quite possible because containers with excellent thermal insulation are commercially available nowadays. The process involved is rapid evacuation through gas ejectors, thus reducing the effect of temperature. The advantage and the process of evacuation leading to subcooling in a unique manner are the objective of this article. The experimental results are discussed in comparison with the thermophysical process involved in the subcooling operation. A comparative study is also carried out with the theoretical heat exchange process in which helium is used as a medium for the economy of the stated process. It is stated that the current process of subcooling through evacuation is superior to the conventional heat exchange process.
A systematic review of (pre)clinical studies on the therapeutic potential and safety profile of kratom in humans
Authors: Prevete Elisabeth , Kuypers Kim Paula Colette , Theunissen Eef Lien , Corazza Ornella , Bersani Giuseppe , Ramaekers Johannes Gerardus
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant traditionally used as an ethnomedicinal remedy for several conditions in South East Asia. Despite the increased interest in its therapeutical benefits in Western countries, little scientific evidence is available to support such claims, and existing data remain limited to kratom's chronic consumption.

Objective

Our study aims to investigate (pre)clinical evidence on the efficacy of kratom as a therapeutic aid and its safety profile in humans.

Methods

A systematic literature search using PubMed and the Medline database was conducted between April and November 2020.

Results

Both preclinical (N = 57) and clinical (N = 18) studies emerged from our search. Preclinical data indicated a therapeutic value in terms of acute/chronic pain (N = 23), morphine/ethanol withdrawal, and dependence (N = 14), among other medical conditions (N = 26). Clinical data included interventional studies (N = 2) reporting reduced pain sensitivity, and observational studies (N = 9) describing the association between kratom's chronic (daily/frequent) use and safety issues, in terms of health consequences (e.g., learning impairment, high cholesterol level, dependence/withdrawal).

Conclusions

Although the initial (pre)clinical evidence on kratom's therapeutic potential and its safety profile in humans is encouraging, further validation in large, controlled clinical trials is required.
Naturalizing the freezeup regimes of regulated rivers and exploring implications to spring ice‐jam flooding
Authors: Beltaos Spyros , Peters Daniel L.
Published: July 2021

Naturalization of the flow hydrograph and ice regime is a key step in assessment of ecological and socioeconomic impacts of regulation across large portions of Europe, Asia and North America, where many rivers are dammed for hydropower generation. Building on previous naturalization of early‐freshet flows that influence the nature of breakup and jamming events, novel methodology is developed to estimate natural freezeup flows and thence determine associated water levels, also known to influence subsequent breakup events. Using reservoir inflows, the new methodology is applied to the lower portion of the regulated Peace River, Canada, which forms the northern boundary of the Peace‐Athabasca Delta (PAD), a Ramsar wetland of international importance that partially depends on spring ice‐jam flooding for recharge of its high‐elevation, or “perched” basins. The PAD provides habitat for numerous aquatic, terrestrial and avian species and is vital to the maintenance of indigenous culture and lifeways. Naturalized freezeup levels in the lower Peace River are shown to be nearly always lower than corresponding regulated values, with the difference averaging ~1.6 m. Consistent with known physics of river ice breakup processes, the present results suggest that ice‐jam flood frequency would likely have been greater under natural conditions. Though potentially adverse from the ecological standpoint, reduction of spring ice‐jam flooding can benefit riverside communities. Implications of the present results to and comparison with, other Canadian and international rivers are discussed.
Understanding the peak growing season ecosystem water‐use efficiency at four boreal fens in the Athabasca oil sands region
Authors: Volik Olena , Petrone Richard , Kessel Eric , Green Adam , Price Jonathan
Published: July 2021

Ecosystem water‐use efficiency (WUE), a ratio between gross ecosystem production (GEP) and water loss through evapotranspiration (ET) can be helpful for the assessment of coupled peatland carbon and water cycles under anthropogenic changes in the Athabasca oil sands region (AOSR) where extensive oil sands development has been occurring since the 1960's. As such, this study assessed multiyear peak growing season variability of WUE at four fens (poor treed, poor open, treed moderate‐rich, open saline) near Fort McMurray using the eddy covariance technique combined with a set of environmental variables. Freshwater fens were characterized by WUE values within the range reported from other boreal wetlands while a saline fen had significantly lower values of WUE. Negative correlation (Rs < −0.55, p < 0.05) between WUE and net radiation was observed. Moisture conditions were responsible for interannual differences in WUE, whereby increasing WUE under wetter conditions was observed. However, such a pattern was offset by decreased air temperature (Tair) resulting in moisture oversupply. This study also revealed a negative effect of wildfire on WUE due to a prominent decline in GEP and a moderate decrease in ET. WUE can be useful for monitoring the functioning of natural and constructed fens, but a better understanding of WUE variability under a wide range of climatic conditions with respect to differences in vegetation is required.
Characterisation of anal intraepithelial neoplasia and anal cancer in HIV‐positive men by immunohistochemical markers p16, Ki‐67, HPV‐E4 and DNA methylation markers
Authors: van der Zee Ramon P. , Meijer Chris J. L. M. , Cuming Tamzin , Kreuter Alexander , van de Sandt Miekel M. , Quint Wim G. V. , de Vries Henry J. C. , Prins Jan M. , Steenbergen Renske D. M.
Published: July 2021

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐induced anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN, graded 1‐3) is highly prevalent in HIV‐positive (HIV+) men who have sex with men (MSM), but only a minority of lesions progresses to cancer. Our study aimed to characterise comprehensively anal tissue samples from a cross‐sectional series (n = 104) of HIV+ MSM and longitudinal series (n = 40) of AIN2/3 progressing to cancer using different biomarkers. The cross‐sectional series consisted of 8 normal, 26 AIN1, 45 AIN2, 15 AIN3 and 10 anal squamous cell carcinoma. Tissue sections were immunohistochemically (IHC) stained for p16 (viral transformation marker), Ki‐67 (cellular proliferation marker) and HPV‐E4 (viral production marker). We evaluated the expression of IHC markers and compared it with DNA methylation, a marker for malignant transformation. E4 positivity decreased, whereas p16 and Ki‐67 scores and methylation marker positivity increased (P values < .001) with increasing severity of anal lesions. Within AIN2, a heterogeneous biomarker pattern was observed concerning E4, p16 and methylation status, reflecting the biological heterogeneity of these lesions. In the longitudinal series, all AIN2/3 and carcinomas showed high p16 and Ki‐67 expression, strong methylation positivity and occasional E4 positivity. We earlier showed that high methylation levels are associated with progression to cancer. The observed E4 expression in some AIN2/3 during the course of progression to cancer and absence of E4 in a considerable number of AIN1 lesions make the potential clinical significance of E4 expression difficult to interpret. Our data show that IHC biomarkers can help to characterise AIN; however, their prognostic value for cancer risk stratification, next to objective methylation analysis, appears to be limited.
Camrelizumab plus oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy as first‐line therapy for advanced biliary tract cancer: A multicenter, phase 2 trial
Authors: Chen Xinni , Qin Shukui , Gu Shanzhi , Ren Zhenggang , Chen Zhendong , Xiong Jianping , Liu Ying , Meng Zhiqiang , Zhang Xiao , Wang Linna , Zhang Xiaojing , Zou Jianjun
Published: July 2021

Biliary tract cancer (BTC) is a highly malignant tumor with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Our study aimed to evaluate camrelizumab plus oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy as first‐line therapy for advanced BTC. In this multicenter, open‐label, phase 2 trial conducted in China (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03092895), untreated patients with advanced BTC were given camrelizumab (3 mg/kg iv drip injection, every 2 weeks) plus typical FOLFOX4 (Cam‐FOLFOX4 group; infusional 5‐fluorouracil, leucovorin and oxaliplatin) or GEMOX (Cam‐GEMOX group; infusional gemcitabine and oxaliplatin). The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR). Ninety‐two patients were enrolled: 29 received Cam‐FOLFOX4 and 63 received Cam‐GEMOX. The confirmed ORR and disease control rate were 16.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 9.4‐25.5) and 75.0% (95% CI = 64.9‐83.4), respectively. Median duration of response was 8.7 months (95% CI = 5.1‐not reached). Median progression‐free survival and overall survival were 5.3 months (95% CI = 3.7‐5.7) and 12.4 months (95% CI = 8.9‐16.1), respectively. Grade ≥3 treatment‐related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred in 82.8% of patients receiving Cam‐FOLFOX4 and in 68.3% receiving Cam‐GEMOX, with no unexpected effects observed. Six (6.5%) patients discontinued treatment due to TRAE. Camrelizumab plus FOLFOX4 or GEMOX as first‐line treatment was effective and tolerable for Chinese patients with advanced BTC, warranting phase 3 trials.
Exploring the impact of engaging student pharmacists in developing individualized experiential success plans
Authors: Briceland Laurie L. , Caimano Courtney R. , Rosa Sandra W. , Veselov Megan , Jablanski Cindy
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Establishing remediation policies in experiential settings poses many challenges. We endeavored to create a customizable Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE) Experiential Success Plan (ESP) initiative in which students engage in self‐assessment of preceptor‐identified performance deficiencies, develop actionable improvement plans, and apply critical reflection. This approach incorporates a self‐directed learning process pedagogy and provides APPE students valuable experience in developing essential self‐awareness skills upon which to scaffold.

Objectives

The purpose of this evaluation was to describe the outcomes of our ESP initiative and to determine if student‐created ESPs were successful in reducing the need for future ESPs, as compared with a Pre‐ESP cohort.

Methods

An ESP policy was created in which preceptors identified performance deficiencies at final APPE evaluation, and students became eligible for an ESP if they received at least two “needs improvement” or at least one “significant deficiency” competency ratings. Pre‐ESP and With ESP data were compared to determine if ESP reduced the need for repeat ESPs. Outcome data was collected to describe APPE rotation classifications, competency domains of identified deficiencies, and grades of students on an ESP. Reflections were rubric assessed for criticality.

Results

Preceptors identified 5.4 performance deficiencies per APPE from all rotation types (most commonly inpatient), and over half derived from the Pharmacists' Patient Care Process competency domain. Of students eligible for ESP, 78% required just the one ESP to self‐correct their deficiencies. Students eligible for multiple ESPs declined from 26% Pre‐ESP to 22% With ESP.

Conclusions

The ESP initiative enabled students to address preceptor‐identified APPE performance deficiencies derived from all rotation types and competency domains. By requiring student self‐engagement in creating ESPs, students gained self‐awareness and self‐directed lifelong learning skills. A majority of students (78%) can self‐correct APPE performance deficiencies with one ESP. For those that required multiple ESPs, further remedial strategies are necessary to adequately address noted deficiencies.
Polypeptide LTX‐315 reverses the cisplatin chemoresistance of ovarian cancer cells via regulating Beclin‐1/PI3K/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Ma Jian , Liu Lei , Ling Yang , Zheng Jianhua
Published: July 2021

Objective

Polypeptide LTX‐315 induces immunogenic cell death, thus having the potential to improve the effect of anticancer treatment. However, the function of LTX‐315 in reversing chemoresistance in ovarian cancer (OC) still remains elusive. Our study aims to decipher the effect of LTX‐315 on reversing the chemoresistance of OC cells and explore its mechanism.

Methods

SKOV3, A2780, SKOV3/DDP, and A2780/DDP cells (cisplatin [DDP]‐resistant cells] were treated with different concentrations of LTX‐315 (10 and 20 µmol/L), respectively. Cell counting kit‐8 assay, Transwell assay, and flow cytometry were used to assess cell viability, migration, invasion, apoptosis rate, and cell cycle of the cells. Western blot was performed to examine the expression of cleaved caspase 3, caspase 3, cleaved Poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP), PARP, Bax, Bcl‐2, Beclin‐1, p‐Akt, Akt, p‐mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and mTOR. Furthermore, OC cells were treated with autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA), and “rescue experiments” were performed.

Results

DDP‐resistant OC cell models were established, and LTX‐315 treatment resulted in lower IC50 of DDP. In OC cells treated with LTX‐315, the viability, migration, invasion and the expression of Bcl‐2 of were repressed, but the apoptotic rate and the expression of cleaved caspase 3, cleaved PARP and Bax were increased, and the cell cycle was arrested. Moreover, LTX‐315 promoted Beclin‐1 expression level and inhibited p‐Akt and p‐mTOR expression levels, whereas 3‐MA could partially reverse the biological effects of LTX‐315 on OC cells.

Conclusion

LTX‐315 can inhibit the resistance of OC cells to DDP in vitro and plays a role by regulating Beclin‐1/phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase/mTOR signaling pathway.
Multiple functions of pyruvate kinase M2 in various cell types
Authors: Lee Yoon‐Beom , Min Jung K. , Kim Jae‐Gyu , Cap Kim Cuong , Islam Rokibul , Hossain Abu J. , Dogsom Oyungerel , Hamza Amir , Mahmud Shohel , Choi Dae R. , Kim Yong‐Sun , Koh Young‐Ho , Kim Hyun‐A , Chung Won‐Suk , Suh Sang W. , Park Jae‐Bong
Published: July 2021

Glucose metabolism is a mechanism by which energy is produced in form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) by mitochondria and precursor metabolites are supplied to enable the ultimate enrichment of mature metabolites in the cell. Recently, glycolytic enzymes have been shown to have unconventional but important functions. Among these enzymes, pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) plays several roles including having conventional metabolic enzyme activity, and also being a transcriptional regulator and a protein kinase. Compared with the closely related PKM1, PKM2 is highly expressed in cancer cells and embryos, whereas PKM1 is dominant in mature, differentiated cells. Posttranslational modifications such as phosphorylation and acetylation of PKM2 change its cellular functions. In particular, PKM2 can translocate to the nucleus, where it regulates the transcription of many target genes. It is notable that PKM2 also acts as a protein kinase to phosphorylate several substrate proteins. Besides cancer cells and embryonic cells, astrocytes also highly express PKM2, which is crucial for lactate production via expression of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), while mature neurons predominantly express PKM1. The lactate produced in cancer cells promotes tumor progress and that in astrocytes can be supplied to neurons and may act as a major source for neuronal ATP energy production. Thereby, we propose that PKM2 along with its different posttranslational modifications has specific purposes for a variety of cell types, performing unique functions.
Effect of surface treatment technique on properties and performance ofNa2WO4‐TiO2‐MnOx/SiO2for oxidative coupling of methane
Authors: Chuntalap Yuttana , Panchan Noppadol , Junsomboon Jaroon , Srisonphan Siwapon , Witoon Thongthai , Seubsai Anusorn , Chareonpanich Metta , Niamnuy Chalida
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) is a promising catalytic process for the conversion of methane to higher‐valued hydrocarbons (C2+). In this study, Na2WO4‐TiO2‐MnOx/SiO2(NWTM) catalysts were obtained by various treatment techniques, including conventional calcine (CC, 800 °C), cold plasma (CP, 7 kV, 1 Hz), microwave radiation (MW, 800 °C), and electron beam radiation (EB, 4000 kGy), with no surface treatment (WT) as a benchmark method.

RESULTS

The results showed substantial differences in catalytic performance. The catalyst prepared by the cold plasma method provided the highest performance in the activity (20.91% C2+yield with 48.04% C2+selectivity and 43.52% CH4conversion) at the early stage of testing (1–4 h).

CONCLUSION

However, the catalyst prepared by microwave radiation achieved the most stable active phases for the 24‐h testing period and yielded the highest C2+for a five‐cycle reusability test. The catalyst prepared by electron beam radiation was found to have the lowest C2+activity due to the poor distribution of the active elements. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Biodegradation of phenanthrene at high concentrations by Acidovoraxsp. JG5 and its functional genomic analysis
Authors: Liao Xiaoyong , Luo Junpeng , Cassidy Daniel P , Li You , Tao Huan , Zhao Yishu
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Phenanthrene (PHE) is a widespread, highly‐toxic, and biodegradable polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) that can be found with high concentrations in multiple industrial sites. For the efficient biodegradation of PHE, especially for the high concentrations, a PHE‐degrading Acidovorax strain was isolated from a soil contaminated for decades with PAH; its ability to degrade PHE was investigated and the pathways involved were identified.

RESULTS

A PHE‐degrading strain was isolated and identified as Acidovorax sp. JG5. The bacterium completely degraded 200 mg·L−1 PHE in 24 h and it degraded over 90% of PHE in solutions ranging from 500 to 1500 mg·L−1 in 48 h. Key metabolites, such as 9,10‐phenanthraquinone, 2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthoic acid, protocatechuic acid, phthalic acid, pyruvic acid, and salicylic acid, were detected during PHE biodegradation. Twelve genes related to PHE biodegradation (e.g., nahAa, pht5, ligA, and dmp cluster) were also revealed. Two PHE degradation pathways are proposed based on these metabolites and genes.

CONCLUSION

Acidovorax sp. JG5 exhibits a high tolerance to PHE and high rates of degradation, along with a tremendous potential for the bioremediation of heavy PAH contamination. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of active engagement and spaced retrieval practice on knowledge and application of a self‐assessment rubric
Authors: Metz Michael J. , Immekus Jason C. , Lyle Keith B. , George Casey E.
Published: July 2021

Purpose/Objectives

This study examined effects of active engagement (ENG) and spaced retrieval practice (SRP) on D1 dental students’ self‐assessment knowledge acquisition.

Methods

D1 dental students (N = 120) were randomly assigned to one of four conditions in a 2 (ENG or no ENG) X 2 (SRP or no SRP) design. Students were tested on their knowledge of a self‐assessment grading rubric (on a 30‐item multiple‐choice exam) and their ability to apply the rubric (on a simulated dentoform assessment).

Results

There were significant main effects of both ENG and SRP on both outcome measures. Both ENG and SRP increased students’ knowledge of, and ability to apply, the self‐assessment rubric. Effects of ENG were larger than those of SRP. There was also a significant ENG X SRP interaction on the knowledge measure. The effect of SRP was larger in the no‐ENG conditions than the ENG conditions, which may reflect a ceiling effect in the ENG conditions.

Conclusions

ENG and SRP have the potential to substantially enhance D1 dental students’ learning outcomes. These results should motivate dental educators to reject outdated instructional techniques and thereby unleash students’ full learning potential. Additional research is needed with a wider range of dental students and learner topics.
Factors associated with moderate sedation attendance at a university‐based pediatric dental clinic
Authors: Alrayyes Sahar M. , Capezio Nicholas , Kratunova Evelina , LeHew Charles W. , Alapati Satish
Published: July 2021

Purpose/objectives

To evaluate patient attendance for moderate sedation (MS) at a university‐based pediatric dental clinic; to identify factors with negative impact on MS being completed and to assess for associations between no‐show appointments and patient variables

Methods

The electronic health records of patients scheduled for MS appointments in a 22‐month period were assessed by a single investigator. Demographic and clinical data related to appointment attendance and MS procedure performance were collected and statistically analyzed using chi‐square, Spearman's rho correlation tests, and logistic regression (p < 0.05)

Results

A total of 618 scheduled MS appointments were included. The MS appointment no‐show‐rate was 17.1 percent. Appointment confirmation (p = 0.001) and dmft score ≥ 9 (p = 0.039) had positive correlation with attendance, while “no‐shows” history (p = 0.024) and longer waiting time (p = 0.040) had negative impact on attendance. About 20% of attended MS were not completed, with main reasons of airway risk (32.3%), ongoing illness (28.4%), and violation of NPO guidelines (21.5%). Race, ethnicity, language spoken, child's behavior, and distance traveled had no significant impact on attendance

Conclusion

Interventions to decrease non‐attendance rates should target patients who are unconfirmed, have a history of no‐show appointments, and are scheduled well before the sedation appointment.
Hold‐out validation for the assessment of stability and reliability of multivariable regression demonstrated with magnetic resonance imaging of patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Levman Jacob , Jennings Maxwell , Kabaria Priya , Rouse Ethan , Nangaku Masahito , Berger Derek , Gondra Iker , Takahashi Emi , Tyrrell Pascal
Published: July 2021

Neuroscience studies are very often tasked with identifying measurable differences between two groups of subjects, typically one group with a pathological condition and one group representing control subjects. It is often expected that the measurements acquired for comparing groups are also affected by a variety of additional patient characteristics such as sex, age, and comorbidities. Multivariable regression (MVR) is a statistical analysis technique commonly employed in neuroscience studies to “control for” or “adjust for” secondary effects (such as sex, age, and comorbidities) in order to ensure that the main study findings are focused on actual differences between the groups of interest associated with the condition under investigation. It is common practice in the neuroscience literature to utilize MVR to control for secondary effects; however, at present, it is not typically possible to assess whether the MVR adjustments correct for more error than they introduce. In common neuroscience practice, MVR models are not validated and no attempt to characterize deficiencies in the MVR model is made. In this article, we demonstrate how standard hold‐out validation techniques (commonly used in machine learning analyses) that involve repeatedly randomly dividing datasets into training and testing samples can be adapted to the assessment of stability and reliability of MVR models with a publicly available neurological magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) dataset of patients with schizophrenia. Results demonstrate that MVR can introduce measurement error up to 30.06% and, on average across all considered measurements, introduce 9.84% error on this dataset. When hold‐out validated MVR does not agree with the results of the standard use of MVR, the use of MVR in the given application is unstable. Thus, this paper helps evaluate the extent to which the simplistic use of MVR introduces study error in neuroscientific analyses with an analysis of patients with schizophrenia.
Genetic counseling and screening of consanguineous couples and their offspring practice resource: Focused Revision
Authors: Bennett Robin L. , Malleda Neeraja R. , Byers Peter H. , Steiner Robert D. , Barr Kimberly M.
Published: July 2021

There are no evidence‐based guidelines to inform genetic counseling for consanguineous couples and their offspring. This focused revision builds on the expert opinions from the original publication of "Genetic Counseling and Screening of Consanguineous Couples and Their Offspring," based on a review of literature published since 2002.
Adapting to the challenges of the global pandemic on genetic counselor education: Evaluating students’ satisfaction with virtual clinical experiences
Authors: Jacobs Chris , McEwen Alison
Published: July 2021

Travel restrictions, physical distancing, and limits to clinical placements due to the global pandemic raised enormous challenges for genetic counseling education in 2020. In response, we created authentic virtual clinical experiences in our Master of Genetic Counseling program, mimicking clinical practice: virtual simulation with standardized clients, and virtual clinical placements, including intake calls, triage, consultations, teamwork and time management, and genetic counseling with standardized clients. The virtual clinical experiences involved online pre‐brief, simulation, and debrief. We aimed to evaluate students’ satisfaction with this learning method. Between April and November 2020, we distributed an anonymous online survey to all participating students using a modified version of a validated satisfaction with simulation scale. We analyzed the combined responses from first‐ and second‐year virtual clinical experiences using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The total number of possible responses was 120. The mean response rate was 68.36% (n = 82.03), with a mean of 16.41 participants responding to each survey from each year group. Of the first‐year participants, 53% (n = 10) had not observed a genetic counseling consultation before attending the virtual clinical placement. Overall, 92.5% of responses indicated that students were satisfied with the virtual clinical experiences (SD = 0.05). 100% (n = 82) of responses indicated that working with standardized clients was beneficial to learning, encouraged reflection on clinical ability and was a valuable learning experience overall. However, 37.78% (n = 17) of those who participated in the virtual simulation found that the use of Zoom detracted from their clinical learning. The virtual clinical experiences increased first‐year students’ confidence about clinical placement and prepared second‐year students for telehealth. In conclusion, the adaptation to virtual clinical experiences enhanced learning for most students, prepared them for practice, met the requirements of the accreditation body and enabled all of our final year students to graduate on time.
Heterocyclic compounds as antiviral drugs: Synthesis, structure–activity relationship and traditional applications
Authors: dos Santos Giovanny Carvalho , Martins Lucas Michelão , Bregadiolli Bruna Andressa , Moreno Vitor Fernandes , da Silva‐Filho Luiz Carlos , da Silva Bruno Henrique Sacoman Torquato
Published: July 2021

A virus outbreak challenges the economic, medical, and public health infrastructure worldwide. More than one virus capable of triggering diseases have been identified per year since 1972, which requires the development of new ways of treatment and prevention, however, such processes are not rapid and easy. With the pandemic scenario experienced since early 2020, several drugs with well‐known purposes have gained prominence, due to speculation of their use in the treatment against the new coronavirus. Among the main drugs studied, the vast majority contain a heterocyclic structure. In this review, we presented the traditional and efficient synthesis of 15 drugs that have been studied for the COVID‐19 treatment, containing in their structure heterocycles like indole, quinoline, pyrimidone, tetrahydrofuran, pyrrolidine, triazole, pyridazine, pyrazole, pyrrolopyrimidine, azetidine, pyrrolotriazine, pyrazine, tetrahydropyran, benzofuran, spiroketal, and thiazole. Furthermore, we have shown the original applications, as well as their structure–activity relationship and what is their situation as a drug candidate against COVID‐19. Thus, the objective was to consolidate the main synthetic and pharmacological aspects involving clinically developed heterocycles that at some point were presented as promising against SARS‐CoV‐2.
Leader status behaviors and team creativity: The role of collective interactions and status conflict among members
Authors: Sung Sun Young , Choi Jin Nam
Published: July 2021

By integrating the leadership and status literature, this study explores the intervening mechanisms through which different forms of leader status‐claiming behaviors predict team creativity. We propose that leaders' prestige‐ and dominance‐oriented status behaviors are positively related to supportive and coercive interactions among members, respectively, which in turn predict team creativity. Empirical analysis based on the multisource data of 53 work teams confirmed that leader prestige behavior exerted a positive indirect effect on team creativity through increased supportive intermember interaction. The indirect effect of leader prestige behavior was significant only when team status conflict was low. By contrast, leader dominance behavior exhibited a positive effect on coercive intermember interaction, which was not significantly related to team creativity. A post hoc analysis revealed that leader dominance behavior had a negative indirect effect on team creativity through decreased supportive interaction among members. This study provides meaningful theoretical insights into the interactive effects of leader status behaviors and team status conflict that lead to distinct collective group processes and team creative output.
Health benefits and risks associated with element uptake from grilled fish and fish products
Authors: Rajkowska‐Myśliwiec Monika , Pokorska‐Niewiada Kamila , Witczak Agata , Balcerzak Marta , Ciecholewska‐Juśko Daria
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

The content of essential and toxic elements in grilled fish (Atlantic salmon, trout) and in 20 assortments of fish products was examined. The aim of this study was to assess the fulfilment of the demand for Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu based on recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) or adequate intakes (AIs) and to assess the health risk associated with the consumption of Al, Pb and Cd. The risk assessment was based on estimated weekly intake (EWI), hazard index (HI), target risk ratio (THQ) and percentage: provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) for Al, tolerable weekly intake (TWI) for Cd and reference dose lower bound (BMDL) for Pb.

RESULTS

Taking into account the health benefits, the best source of Fe, Cu and Mn was found to be fish products in cans and jars, 150 g of which covered the daily requirement: Fe 9.39%, Cu 2.91% and Mn 1.21%. Smoked fish covered the RDA for Zn to 5.69%. Moreover, the uptake of toxic elements was as follows: Al 0.45% PTWI: Pb 0.74% BMDL10 and Cd 2.20% TWI. The THQ values for Pb and Cd were significantly lower than 1, whereas for Al it reached as high as 4.0.

CONCLUSION

The obtained results indicate that there is no risk related to the intake of Pb and Cd with the consumption of the tested fish products. Low consumption of fish by Poles, however, contributes to their small share in covering the demand for microelements, i.e. Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.