bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explorative study on Lactobacillus species and their acid‐producing capacity and anti‐microbial activity in head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Rahne Matilda , Basic Amina , Almståhl Annica
Published: March 2021

Objective

To determine acid‐producing capacity and anti‐microbial activity of Lactobacillus species collected pretreatment and post treatment in head and neck cancer patients.

Material and Methods

Lactobacillus isolates from 21 patients pretreatment and post treatment were identified using molecular methods. The patients' stimulated salivary secretion was determined pretreatment, and 6 and 12 months post treatment and caries lesions/new filled surfaces registered at 24 months post treatment. The acid‐producing capacity of the Lactobacillus isolate was analyzed using a colorimetric fermentation test in microtiter plates. The anti‐microbial activity of the isolates against Streptococcus mutans associated with caries, and against the mucosal pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Enterococcus faecalis was analyzed by determining inhibitory zones on agar plates.

Results

The most frequent species were L. paracasei (n = 21), L. casei/rhamnosus (n = 17) and L. fermentum (n = 10). Sixty‐seven percent of the patients harbored L. paracasei either at 6 or 12 months post radiotherapy. The corresponding figures for L. casei/rhamnosus and L. fermentum were 62% and 33%. L. paracasei strains showed the best acid‐producing capacity and L. fermentum strains the lowest. Strong acid‐producing capacity was most common among isolates collected at 6 months post treatment. Seventy‐two percent of the strains showed an anti‐microbial activity against S. mutans, one strain against S. aureus and none against C. albicans or E. faecalis.

Conclusion

The most frequent species isolated from head and neck cancer patients both pretreatment and post treatment were L. paracasei, L. casei/rhamnosus, and L. fermentum. L. paracasei showed the best acid‐producing capacity and the highest proportion with anti‐microbial activity against S. mutans.
Systematic evaluation of a panel of 30 synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists structurally related to MMB‐4en‐PICA, MDMB‐4en‐PINACA, ADB‐4en‐PINACA, and MMB‐4CN‐BUTINACA using a combination of binding and different CB1 receptor activation assays: Part I—Synthesis, analytical characterization, and binding affinity for human CB1 receptors
Authors: Pike Edward , Grafinger Katharina Elisabeth , Cannaert Annelies , Ametovski Adam , Luo Jia Lin , Sparkes Eric , Cairns Elizabeth A. , Ellison Ross , Gerona Roy , Stove Christophe P. , Auwärter Volker , Banister Samuel D.
Published: March 2021

Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are one of the largest and most structurally diverse classes of new psychoactive substances (NPS). Despite this, pharmacological data are often lacking following the identification of a new SCRA in drug markets. In this first of a three‐part series, we describe the synthesis, analytical characterization, and binding affinity of a proactively generated, systematic library of 30 indole, indazole, and 7‐azaindole SCRAs related to MMB‐4en‐PICA, MDMB‐4en‐PINACA, ADB‐4en‐PINACA, and MMB‐4CN‐BUTINACA featuring a 4‐pentenyl (4en‐P), butyl (B/BUT), or 4‐cyanobutyl (4CN‐B/BUT) tail and a methyl l‐valinate (MMB), methyl l‐tert‐leucinate (MDMB), methyl l‐phenylalaninate (MPP), l‐valinamide (AB), l‐tert‐leucinamide (ADB), l‐phenylalaninamide (APP), adamantyl (A), or cumyl head group. Competitive radioligand binding assays demonstrated that the indazole core conferred the highest CB1 binding affinity (Ki = 0.17–39 nM), followed by indole‐ (Ki = 0.95–160 nM) and then 7‐azaindole‐derived SCRAs (Ki = 5.4–271 nM). Variation of the head group had the greatest effect on binding, with tert‐leucine amides and methyl esters (Ki = 0.17–14 nM) generally showing the greatest affinities, followed by valine derivatives (Ki = 0.72–180 nM), and then phenylalanine derivatives (Ki = 2.5–271 nM). Adamantyl head groups (Ki = 8.8–59 nM) were suboptimal for binding, whereas the cumyl analogues consistently conferred high affinity (Ki = 0.62–36 nM). Finally, both butyl (Ki = 3.1–163 nM) and 4‐cyanobutyl (Ki = 5.5–44 nM) tail groups were less favorable for CB1 binding than their corresponding 4‐pentenyl counterparts (Ki = 0.72–25 nM).
Intuitive eating and its psychological correlates: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Linardon Jake , Tylka Tracy L. , Fuller‐Tyszkiewicz Matthew
Published: March 2021

Objective

Intuitive eating is an adaptive style of eating that has generated significant research attention. Theoretically, intuitive eating is a core construct that features prominently in the Acceptance Model of Intuitive Eating, a framework that explains how positive environmental influences can foster intuitive eating practices via body appreciation. Empirically, intuitive eating has been connected to a broad range of adaptive mental health indices. At present, a quantitative synthesis of intuitive eating and its correlates has yet to be conducted. This was the objective of the current meta‐analysis.

Method

Ninety‐seven studies (89% cross‐sectional) were included. Random effects meta‐analyses were conducted on 23 psychological correlates, divided into three clusters: eating behavior and body image disturbances, positive body image and other adaptive factors, and general psychopathology. Meta‐analytic path analyses were also computed to test the validity of the Acceptance Model.

Results

Intuitive eating was inversely associated with multiple indices of eating pathology, body image disturbances, and psychopathology (rs = −.23 to −.58). Intuitive eating was positively associated with numerous positive psychological constructs, such as positive body image, self‐esteem, and wellbeing (rs = .20 to .58). Men reported higher levels of intuitive eating than women (d = 0.39), with differences being largest in Caucasian samples. Meta‐analytic path analyses strongly supported the hypothesized pathways specified in the Acceptance Model of Intuitive Eating.

Conclusions

There is a strong evidence base for intuitive eating's connection to numerous adaptive psychological constructs. Attention should now shift toward prospective and experimental designs so that the temporal nature of these relationships can be identified.
The declining occurrence of moose (Alces alces) at the southernmost edge of its range raise conservation concerns
Authors: Janík Tomáš , Peters Wibke , Šálek Martin , Romportl Dušan , Jirků Miloslav , Engleder Thomas , Ernst Martin , Neudert Jiří , Heurich Marco
Published: March 2021

The border region between Austria, the Czech Republic, and Germany harbors the most south‐western occurrence of moose in continental Europe. The population originated in Poland, where moose survived, immigrated from former Soviet Union or were reintroduced after the Second World War expanded west‐ and southwards. In recent years, the distribution of the nonetheless small Central European population seems to have declined, necessitating an evaluation of its current status. In this study, existing datasets of moose observations from 1958 to 2019 collected in the three countries were combined to create a database totaling 771 records (observations and deaths). The database was then used to analyze the following: (a) changes in moose distribution, (b) the most important mortality factors, and (c) the availability of suitable habitat as determined using a maximum entropy approach. The results showed a progressive increase in the number of moose observations after 1958, with peaks in the 1990s and around 2010, followed by a relatively steep drop after 2013. Mortality within the moose population was mostly due to human interactions, including 13 deadly wildlife‐vehicle collisions, particularly on minor roads, and four animals that were either legally culled or poached. Our habitat model suggested that higher altitudes (ca. 700–1,000 m a.s.l.), especially those offering wetlands, broad‐leaved forests and natural grasslands, are the preferred habitats of moose whereas steep slopes and areas of human activity are avoided. The habitat model also revealed the availability of large core areas of suitable habitat beyond the current distribution, suggesting that habitat was not the limiting factor explaining the moose distribution in the study area. Our findings call for immediate transboundary conservation measures to sustain the moose population, such as those aimed at preventing wildlife‐vehicle collisions and illegal killings. Infrastructure planning and development activities must take into account the habitat requirements of moose.
Making the most of your pollinators: An epiphytic fig tree encourages its pollinators to roam between figs
Authors: Mohd Hatta Siti Khairiyah , Quinnell Rupert J. , Idris Abd Ghani , Compton Stephen G.
Published: March 2021

Ficus species are characterized by their unusual enclosed inflorescences (figs) and their relationship with obligate pollinator fig wasps (Agaonidae). Fig trees have a variety of growth forms, but true epiphytes are rare, and one example is Ficus deltoidea of Southeast Asia. Presumably as an adaptation to epiphytism, inflorescence design in this species is exceptional, with very few flowers in female (seed‐producing) figs and unusually large seeds. Figs on male (pollinator offspring‐generating) trees have many more flowers. Many fig wasps pollinate one fig each, but because of the low number of flowers per fig, efficient utilization by F. deltoidea's pollinators depends on pollinators entering several female figs. We hypothesized that it is in the interest of the plants to allow pollinators to re‐emerge from figs on both male and female trees and that selection favors pollinator roaming because it increases their own reproductive success. Our manipulations of Blastophaga sp. pollinators in a Malaysian oil palm plantation confirmed that individual pollinators do routinely enter several figs of both sexes. Entering additional figs generated more seeds per pollinator on female trees and more pollinator offspring on male trees. Offspring sex ratios in subsequently entered figs were often less female‐biased than in the first figs they entered, which reduced their immediate value to male trees because only female offspring carry their pollen. Small numbers of large seeds in female figs of epiphytic F. deltoidea may reflect constraints on overall female fig size, because pollinator exploitation depends on mutual mimicry between male and female figs.
Mutual coupling and correlation coefficient of a small antenna designed to radiate directly from AMC
Authors: Yoshikawa Hiromichi , Hiramatsu Nobuki , Uchimura Hiroshi , Yonehara Masamichi
Published: March 2021

We have proposed a small antenna designed to radiate directly from AMC (AMC antenna). In this paper, the calculated results of two‐dimensional distribution of the mutual coupling and the correlation coefficient are discussed by the AMC antenna and a planar inverted‐F antenna (PIFA). Especially, the mutual coupling and the correlation coefficient of AMC antenna are measured.
Two stage operation scheme for a microgrid including hydrogen production as a part of demand
Authors: Kida Yushi , Hara Ryoichi , Kita Hiroyuki , Koguma Yuji , Inamura Akinobu , Hamaguchi Kenichi
Published: March 2021

The authors focus on a microgrid (MG) including hydrogen production processes as a part of demand. The studied MG consists of a photovoltaic (PV), a battery storage system, two different type electrolyzers, and electric/fuel steam boilers and supplies for the electric, thermal and hydrogen demands. This paper proposes detailed operation scheme which consists of two stages, namely, the day ahead scheduling and the real‐time (RT) control. The day ahead scheduling optimizes the operations of system components in the next day based on the forecasts for PV output and demands. The RT control provides the actual control command to individual system component based on the actual PV output and demands monitored online. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme is ascertained through some computational case studies. Performance of the proposed scheme is evaluated in terms of the total energy cost, the curtailed PV output and the hydrogen production volume.
Novel antibodies that selectively block mouse IL‐12 enable the re‐evaluation of the role of IL‐12 in immune protection and pathology
Authors: Gaignage Mélanie , Uyttenhove Catherine , Jones Lindsay L. , Bourdeaux Christophe , Chéou Paméla , Mandour Mohamed F. , Coutelier Jean‐Paul , Vignali Dario A.A. , Van Snick Jacques
Published: March 2021

The dimeric cytokine IL‐12 is important in the control of various infections but also contributes to the pathology of certain diseases making it a potential target for therapy. However, its specific inhibition with antibodies is complicated by the fact that its two subunits are present in other cytokines: p40 in IL‐23 and p35 in IL‐35. This has led to erroneous conclusions like the alleged implication of IL‐12 in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Here, we report the development of a mouse anti‐mouse IL‐12 vaccine and the production of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that do not react with p40 or p35 (in IL‐35) but specifically recognize and functionally inhibit the IL‐12 heterodimer. Using one of these mAbs, MM12A1.6, that strongly inhibited IFN‐γ production and LPS‐induced septic shock after viral infection, we demonstrate the critical role played by IL‐12 in the rejection of male skin graft by female C57BL/6 syngeneic recipients and in the clearance of an immunogenic mastocytoma tumor variant by DBA/2 mice, but not in a parent to F1 immune aggression model nor in MOG‐induced EAE, which was clearly prevented by anti‐p40 mAb C17.8. Given this selective inhibition of IL‐12, these mAbs provide new options for reassessing IL‐12 function in vivo.
Determination of p‐Nitrophenol in Synthetic Textile Wastewater Samples Using a Graphene Oxide/Palladium Nanoparticles Modified Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: D'Almeida Suysia R. , Buoro Rafael M.
Published: March 2021

This work presents for the first time the incorporation of graphene oxide/palladium nanoparticles composite into a carbon paste electrode and its application in the quantification of p‐nitrophenol, a very hazardous pollutant, in a synthetic wastewater sample. The composite presented a homogeneous particle distribution and narrow size distribution, averaging 4 nm. The resulting electrode presented improved shelf stability and prevented the adsorption of byproducts of p‐nitrophenol on the electrode surface, which is an advantage when compared to other sensors, due to the presence of the polymer polyvinylimidazole inside the graphene oxide matrix. This work also explores the performance of the proposed sensor among other dyes which can be present simultaneously in industrial wastewater and free water bodies.
Comparative Analysis of 3D Graphene–LiOH·H2O Composites by Modification with Phytic Acid and Ascorbic Acid for Low‐Grade Thermal Energy Storages
Authors: Li Lin , Li Shijie , Zeng Tao , Deng Lisheng , Huang Hongyu , Li Jun , Kobayshi Noriyuki , Liu Lin , Zhou You
Published: March 2021

3D Graphene (3D‐GF) modified with different additive concentrations (phytic acid [PA] and ascorbic acid [AA]) is developed and then combined with different LiOH contents by the hydrothermal method to obtain composite materials. It can be found that the addition of PA and AA will not destroy the carbon skeleton structure of 3D‐GF. With increasing additive content, the thermal conductivities of modified 3D‐GF first increase and reach their maximum values at 8 mg mL−1. The modified 3D‐GF with the highest thermal conductivity is selected to be combined with different LiOH contents. The addition of PA and AA can broaden the charging temperature range from 60–110 to 30–200 °C and improve the LiOH hydration rate and heat storage density. Compared with the PA‐modified composite, the AA‐modified composite shows smaller (about 7.6 nm) and more uniform LiOH·H2O particles (the particles size standard deviation of 3D‐GF‐AA‐LiOH·H2O is 1.1503), a larger specific surface area (119 m2 g−1), higher heat storage density (the highest value of 2763 kJ kg−1 for LiOH⋅H2O, which can be about 4.2 times of pure LiOH), and less influenced by the change of LiOH content (the thermal conductivity standard deviation of 3D‐GF‐AA‐LiOH·H2O is 0.123).
Polymer Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Cost‐Effective Green Energy Generation and Implementation of Surface‐Charge Engineering
Authors: Lopez Diana , Chowdhury Aminur Rashid , Abdullah Abu Musa , Sadaf Muhtasim Ul Karim , Martinez Isaac , Choudhury Brishty Deb , Danti Serena , Ellison Christopher J. , Lozano Karen , Uddin M. Jasim
Published: March 2021

Performance of triboelectric nanogenerators for harvesting mechanical energy from the ambient environment has been limited by structural complexity, cost‐effectiveness, and mechanical weakness of materials. Herein, a cost‐effective vertical contact separation mode triboelectric nanogenerator using polyethylene (PE) and polycarbonate (PC) in a regular digital versatile disc is reported. This cost‐effective nanogenerator with simplified structures is able to generate an open‐circuit voltage of 215.3 V and short‐circuit current of 80 μA. The effects of the distance of impact and the air gap between the triboelectric layers have also been tested from 3 to 9 cm, and 0.25 to 1 cm, respectively. It is determined that 0.5 cm is the optimal air gap. The nanogenerator is also tested in different real‐life scenarios including stresses produced by a moving car, walking, and a rolling skateboard over the nanogenerator. The surfaces of the triboelectric layers are further modified by surface‐charge engineering which induced a 460% increase in the output power. These tests reveal a significant electrical response and mechanical stability under stress. In summary, this study demonstrates that the relatively inexpensive PE and PC triboelectric pair has the potential to be used for highly efficient, mechanically robust triboelectric nanogenerators.
The seed oil of Paeonia ludlowii ameliorates Aβ25‐35‐induced Alzheimer's disease in rats
Authors: Lu Ya‐Zhou , Zhang Chao‐Qi , Yu Ben‐Xia , Zhang Er‐Hao , Quan Hong , Yin Xiu , Cai Hao , Yuan Fang , Li Lian‐Qiang , Xu Yuan‐Jiang , Su Yan‐Jie , Xing Ya‐Jing , Liao Zhi‐Hua , Lan Xiao‐Zhong
Published: March 2021

Paeonia ludlowii, a plant of the Paeoniaceae family, has abundant genetic diversity in different populations, and the seed oil can be used in a diverse number of activities. However, its neuroprotective effect is not clear. We investigated the memory‐improving effects and associated mechanisms of Paeonia ludlowii seed oil (PLSO) on amyloid beta (Aβ)25–35‐induced Alzheimer's disease (AD) in rats. The Morris water maze test was undertaken, and subsequently, the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and acetylcholinesterase (ACHE) in the hippocampus was detected by biochemical analyses. To further study PLSO, we examined the pathologic structure and apoptosis of hippocampal tissue by staining. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to detect expression of IBA‐1 and GFAP in the hippocampus. Detection of proinflammatory factors was achieved by reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. High‐dose PLSO inhibited expression of GFAP and IBA‐1. We demonstrated that high‐dose PLSO can regulate activation of glial cells and mediate apoptosis of hippocampal cells, and significantly improve learning and memory deficits in AD rats. PLSO could be developed as a nutritional supplement and sold as a drug for AD prevention and/or treatment.
The value of 68Gallium‐DOTATATE PET/CT in sinonasal neuroendocrine tumor management: A case series
Authors: Liu Katherine Y. , Goldrich David Y. , Ninan Sen J. , Filimonov Andrey , Lam Hansen , Govindaraj Satish , Iloreta Alfred Marc
Published: March 2021

Background

68Gallium‐DOTATATE (68Ga‐DOTATATE) is a somatostatin analog used as a PET tracer to successfully identify neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Due to the rarity of sinonasal NETs, there are few recommendations for 68Ga‐DOTATATE imaging in these patients.

Methods

We discussed the impact of 68Ga‐DOTATATE imaging on the management of six sinonasal NET cases and reviewed existing literature.

Results

68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT revealed an unknown primary in one case and identified metastatic disease in a primary sinonasal small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SNEC) patient missed on conventional imaging. In two esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) patients, 68Ga‐DOTATATE detected abnormal radiotracer uptake not present on 18F‐FDG PET/CT and identified a patient for treatment with 177Lu‐DOTATATE.

Conclusions

This is the one of the first few reports, and the largest series to our knowledge, demonstrating the utility of 68Ga‐DOTATATE imaging for primary sinonasal SNEC and ENB. Further study is required to determine its role in sinonasal NET management.
Wearing comfort and perceived heaviness of smart glasses
Authors: Kim Yong Min , Bahn Sangwoo , Yun Myung Hwan
Published: March 2021

Smart glasses require additional structures to perform smart functions, which increases their weight and results in an uneven weight distribution. Excessive weight increase and weight balance issues could cause discomfort; thus, guidelines regarding the appropriate weight profile of smart glasses are needed. The aim of this study is to propose an acceptable weight for smart glasses to ensure user comfort. We derived the main form factors of smart glasses and designed a prototype based on face and head dimensions using a Korean anthropometric database. A total of 78 participants were asked to complete questionnaires related to wearing comfort, perceived heaviness, and sensory threshold. The relationship between wearing comfort and perceived heaviness was analyzed through correlation analysis, and regression analyses were performed to identify the threshold levels. As the weight of the prototype increased, the perceived heaviness score also increased. Perceived heaviness was negatively correlated with wearing comfort (p < .001, r = −.838). The regression analyses revealed that 39.13 g (R
2 = .897) and ±14.16 g (R
2 = .942) were the threshold levels for the perception of weight increase and weight balance difference, respectively. This study contributes to the design of smart glasses based on anthropometric data and makes recommendations regarding the weight profile of smart glasses. The findings are expected to help developers and researchers design more comfortable smart glasses and establish design guidelines for smart glasses.
Performing Fluency: Using Improv and Drama With Adult English Learners
Authors: Gillette Carmela A. Romano
Published: March 2021

Authors and columns in this department explicitly focus on adult literacy, addressing issues of research, policy, and practice relevant to a wide range of adult learners in different contexts.
Ain’t Oughta Be in the Dictionary: Getting to Justice by Dismantling Anti‐Black Literacy Assessment Practices
Authors: Randall Jennifer , Poe Mya , Slomp David
Published: March 2021

Discussions about literacy assessment can often be polarizing for teachers, school administrators, and other stakeholders. Given the diverse and often charged perspectives on assessment within both the profession and the broader public discourse, it can be difficult to engage in productive dialogue about the role that literacy assessment plays in promoting or inhibiting effective models of literacy education. This department provides perspectives, questions, and research that enables readers to better advocate for themselves and their students as they develop their own assessment programs and respond to assessment programs that are imposed on them.
Development of novel bone‐like nanocomposite coating of hydroxyapatite/collagen on titanium by modified electrophoretic deposition
Authors: Iwanami‐Kadowaki Kaori , Uchikoshi Tetsuo , Uezono Masayoshi , Kikuchi Masanori , Moriyama Keiji
Published: March 2021

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) is a simple, rapid, and inexpensive technique to accomplish uniform coatings with controlled thicknesses. The EPD using binders that do not require a thermal degreasing process, which also eliminates the polymer components of the composite, are required for coating polymer‐ceramic composites. This study demonstrated the application of a modified EPD technique utilizing Mg2+ ions to coat a bone‐like hydroxyapatite/collagen nanocomposite (HAp/Col) on a titanium (Ti) substrate. The coating thickness was successfully controlled by varying the applied voltage and/or the treatment time. The adhesive strength of the modified EPD coating, evaluated by the tape test, showed class 0 (coating was not peeled off) and drastically increased in comparison to that of the non‐Mg2+ EPD coating, class 5 (coating was completely peeled off). The MG63 cells on the HAp/Col‐coated Ti demonstrated similar proliferation to and superior alkaline phosphatase activity to that on the bare Ti. Thus, the HAp/Col‐coated Ti is expected to facilitate the surrounding bone formation than the bare‐Ti. The results of the study indicated the HAp/Col‐coated Ti prepared by the modified EPD is effective for applications in novel instruments, such as, subperiosteal temporary anchorage devices, which strongly requires rapid osseointegration at the bone‐implant surface.
ClassicalGSG: Prediction of logP using classical molecular force fields and geometric scattering for graphs
Authors: Donyapour Nazanin , Hirn Matthew , Dickson Alex
Published: March 2021

This work examines methods for predicting the partition coefficient (log P) for a dataset of small molecules. Here, we use atomic attributes such as radius and partial charge, which are typically used as force field parameters in classical molecular dynamics simulations. These atomic attributes are transformed into index‐invariant molecular features using a recently developed method called geometric scattering for graphs (GSG). We call this approach “ClassicalGSG” and examine its performance under a broad range of conditions and hyperparameters. We train ClassicalGSG log P predictors with neural networks using 10,722 molecules from the OpenChem dataset and apply them to predict the log P values from four independent test sets. The ClassicalGSG method's performance is compared to a baseline model that employs graph convolutional networks. Our results show that the best prediction accuracies are obtained using atomic attributes generated with the CHARMM generalized force field and 2D molecular structures.
HCV core antigen plays an important role in the fight against HCV as an alternative to HCV‐RNA detection
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Jie Wang , Ling Jiang , Yuanshuai Huang
Published: March 2021

Objective

To discuss the clinical significance of HCV‐cAg testing in the diagnosis, activity determination, and monitoring of therapeutic effectiveness of HCV infection and its advantages compared with HCV‐RNA and anti‐HCV antibodies detection.

Methods

By summarizing the published literature, the advantages and significance of HCV core antigen detection were sought.

Results

The expression of HCV‐cAg is highly consistent with that of HCV‐RNA, but compared with HCV‐RNA, detection of HCV‐cAg is easy to operate, time saving, and low cost. HCV‐cAg can be detected within 12~15 days after infection, and the window period can be shortened by5~7 weeks. HCV‐cAg is a serological indicator of virus replication, which can distinguish previous infection of HCV or current infection. HCV‐cAg detection is more suitable for immunocompromised, hemodialysis, organ transplant patients. HCV‐cAg also can be used to monitor antiviral efficacy and predict sustained virological response (SVR).

Conclusion

HCV core antigen has similar clinical sensitivity to NAT and can be used as a substitute for HCV‐RNA in the diagnosis of virus infection. Combined detection of HCV‐cAg and antibody serology can help doctors detect HCV infection earlier, accurately diagnose different stages of HCV infection, and evaluate the therapeutic effect of antiviral drugs, which are beneficial in the prevention and treatment of hepatitis C.
Facile purification of palygorskite and its effect on the performance of reverse osmosis thin film nanocomposite membrane
Authors: Mamah Stanley C , Goh Pei S , Ismail Ahmad F , El‐badawy Tijjani , Agi Augustine , Yakasai Faruk
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Palygorskite (PAL) is a naturally occurring nanoclay characterized by a distinctive tubular structure and fibrous morphology, exhibiting chemical and thermal stability as well as large specific surface area. The tubular structure of PAL promotes the selective transportation of water molecules, hence can serve as an interesting candidate for liquid separation. In this work, a membrane substrate was fabricated using the purified PAL to enhance the flux of the thin film composite reverse osmosis. Purification of PAL enhances its interaction with polymer chain to further promote nanofiller dispersion and improves the hydrophilic properties. The water flux as well as salt rejection of the developed membranes was examined using a dead end filtration system. The membrane performance with respect to pure water flux and salt rejection was evaluated using reverse osmosis water and 2000 ppm sodium chloride solution at 15 bar operation pressure.

RESULTS

The physico‐chemical characterization evidenced the role of purified PAL (P‐PAL) in increasing the number of pores and promoting the formation of finger like structure in the substrate layer. The water flux of thin film nanocomposite (TFN) containing P‐PAL exhibited 114.6% and 43.1% improvement compared to that of neat and TFN membrane incorporated with pristine PAL respectively without compromising the salt rejection performance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the purification of palygorskite and its effects on membrane water permeability in the field of water desalination. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Factors predicting major complications, mortality, and recovery in percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
Authors: Limpias Kamiya Kenji J L , Hosoe Naoki , Takabayashi Kaoru , Hayashi Yukie , Fukuhara Seiichiro , Mutaguchi Makoto , Nakamura Rieko , Kawakubo Hirofumi , Kitagawa Yuko , Ogata Haruhiko , Kanai Takanori
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) has been used in patients with dysphagia and inadequate food intake via an oral route. Despite being a procedure with a high success rate, complications and death have been reported. The aim was to identify the factors related to major complications and mortality, as well as PEG removal prognostic factors due to improvement of their general condition.

Methods

Patient characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory data, concomitant medication, sedation, and indication for PEG placement were collected. Major complications, mortality, and PEG removal factors were assessed.

Results

A total of 388 patients were enrolled. There were 15 (3.9%) cases of major complications, with major bleeding being the most frequent in 6 (1.5%) patients. Corticosteroids were the independent variable associated with major complications (odds ratio [OR] 5.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.71–20; P = <0.01). Advanced cancer (hazard ratio [HR] 0.5; 95% CI 0.3–1; P = 0.05), albumin (HR 0.6; 95% CI 0.4–0.9; P = <0.01), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) (HR 1.1; CI 1–1.2; P = 0.01) were considered risk factors for mortality. Previous pneumonia (HR 0.4; CI 0.2–0.9; P = 0.02) was a factor for permanent use of a PEG; however, oncological indication (HR 8.2; CI 3.2–21; P = <0.01) was factors for PEG withdrawal.

Conclusions

Chronic corticosteroid users potentially present with major complications. Low albumin levels and elevated CRP were associated with death. Previous aspiration pneumonia was a factor associated with permanent use of PEG; however, patients with oncological indication were the most benefited.
A snapshot of the 2020 conception of anatomic liver resections and their applicability on minimally invasive liver surgery. A preparatory survey for the Expert Consensus Meeting on Precision Anatomy for Minimally Invasive HBP Surgery
Authors: Ciria Ruben , Berardi Giammauro , Nishino Hitoe , Chan Albert C.Y. , Chanwat Rawisak , Chen Kuo‐Hsin , Chen Yajin , Cheung Tan To , Fuks David , Geller David A. , Iwashita Yukio , Liu Rong , López‐Ben Santiago , Yamamoto Masakazu , Wakabayashi Go ,   Study group of Precision Anatomy for Minimally Invasive Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic surgery (PAM‐HBP surgery)
Published: March 2021

Background

The main aim of this survey was to analyze how liver surgeons perform liver resections and to define their conception of anatomic procedures within the incorporation of minimally invasive liver surgery (MILS).

Methods

The survey was distributed among liver surgeons. It mainly focused on personal experience on open and MILS, methods and landmarks, and experience on anatomic resections and Glissonean approach.

Results

A total of 445 valid answers from 54 countries was obtained. Surgeons performing MILS mainly have below 10 years of experience (81.8% of responders) and one third has never done complex MILS. New techniques, including indocyanine green demarcation are marginally used (<25%). More than 60% of surgeons do not make a full exposure of hepatic veins during MILS, mainly due to the risk of injury or not considering it to be of utility. Although 88% of responders agreed with the concept of anatomic resection as the “resection along the border/watersheds of each order division identified by the portal vein flow”, only 55% of surgeons have ever performed MILS Glissonean approaches.

Conclusions

Liver anatomy is not a static concept. Anatomic resections need training and precision. Standardization of complex anatomic resections by a minimally invasive approach should be encouraged.
Skeletal elements of the penguin eye and their functional and phylogenetic implications (Aves: Sphenisciformes: Spheniscidae)
Authors: Hadden Peter W. , Gerneke Dane A. , McGhee Charles N. J. , Zhang Jie
Published: March 2021

Scleral ossicles and other bony elements are present in the eyes of many vertebrates, including birds. In this study, the skeletal elements present in the penguin eye and orbit were imaged using macro photographs and micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT), to help elucidate their function and significance. A total of 36 scleral rings and three whole skulls were imaged. King (Aptenodytes patagonicus), Fiordland crested (Eudyptes pachyrhynchus), Snares crested (Eudyptes robustus), royal (Eudyptes schlegeli) and yellow‐eyed (Megadyptes antipodes) penguins had between 12 and 14 elements in their scleral ring while the gentoo (Pygoscelis papua) had 14 and 17; little penguins (Eudyptula sp.) consistently had between 10 and 12 elements. All had at least two elements that overlapped, usually totally, each neighbour, and two that were overlapped by each neighbour. The interior structure of all ossicles revealed a lattice‐like arrangement of struts typical of cancellous bone, the whole being surrounded by thick cortical bone. The scleral ring of a 10 week gentoo chick was not completely ossified but rather had multiple small holes within it on micro‐CT. A large os opticus was present in one king penguin but in another bird of the same age and gender there was no such bone. Much smaller accessory bones were found in the posterior pole of one Snares crested and one little penguin. We conclude that the penguin scleral ring not only maintains the shape of the eye but also provides protection and a site of insertion for rectus muscles. However, the extreme variability in the os opticus suggests that it is not essential to normal function.
Larger bilateral amygdalar volumes are associated with affective loss experiences
Authors: Acosta Henriette , Jansen Andreas , Kircher Tilo
Published: March 2021

Affective loss (AL) (i.e., bereavement, relationship breakup) is a stressful life event leading to a heightened risk of developing a psychiatric disorder, for example, depression and anxiety disorder. These disorders have been associated with altered subcortical brain volumes. Little is known though, how AL in healthy subjects is linked to subcortical volumes. In a study with 196 healthy young adults, we probed the association between AL across the individual entire life span, assessed via the List of Threatening Experiences Questionnaire, and magnetic resonance imaging brain gray matter volumes (a priori selected: bilateral amygdalae, hippocampi, thalami; exploratory analyses: nuclei accumbens, caudate, putamina), segmented by use of volBrain. AL was defined as death of a first‐degree relative/spouse, close relative/friend, and breakup of a marriage or steady relationship. AL was associated with larger bilateral amygdalar volumes and, after taking into account the total number of ALs, with smaller right hippocampal volumes, both irrespective of sex. Exploratory analyses of striatal volumes yielded an association of AL with larger right nucleus accumbens volumes in men, and increased caudate volumes after the loss of a first‐degree relative irrespective of sex. Our data suggest that AL engenders alterations in limbic structures that likely involve processes of chronic stress and amygdala‐ and hippocampus‐dependent fear conditioning, and resemble those observed in general anxiety disorder, childhood maltreatment, and major depressive disorder. Our exploratory findings of striatal volume alterations hint at a modulation of reward processing by AL.
Ascorbic acid‐induced degradation of liposome‐encapsulated acylated and non‐acylated anthocyanins of black carrot extract
Authors: Guldiken Burcu , Gibis Monika , Boyacioglu Dilek , Capanoglu Esra , Weiss Jochen
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

In the presence of ascorbic acid, the degradation of acylated (sinapic, ferulic and p‐coumaric acid derivatives of cyanidin‐3‐xylosylglucosylgalactoside) and non‐acylated anthocyanins of black carrot extract (BCE) encapsulated in liposomes was studied. BCEs (0.2% and 0.4% w/w) were encapsulated in liposomes using different lecithin concentrations (1%, 2% and 4% w/w).

RESULTS

The liposomes were prepared with particle diameters of less than 50 nm and zeta potentials of about −21.3 mV for extract‐containing liposomes and −27.7 mV for control liposomes. The encapsulation efficiency determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) showed that increasing lecithin levels increased the efficiency to 59% at the same extract concentration. The concentrations of total anthocyanins and individual anthocyanins were determined for ascorbic acid (0.1% w/w)‐degraded extract and liposomes (containing 0.2% w/w extract). Anthocyanin quantification of both liposomal and extract samples was performed by HPLC using cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside chloride as standard. Five anthocyanins in the extract and encapsulated liposomes were quantified during 24 h (0–24 h): cyanidin‐3‐xylosylglucosylgalactoside 1.0–0.51 and 0.82–0.58 mg g−1, cyanidin‐3‐xylosylgalactoside 2.5–1.1 and 2.2–1.7 mg g−1, cyanidin‐3‐xylosyl(sinapoylglucosyl)galactoside 0.51–0.14 and 0.35–0.28 mg g−1, cyanidin‐3‐xylosyl(feruloylglucosyl)galactoside 1.37–0.41 and 1.06–0.98 mg g−1, and cyanidin‐3‐xylosyl(coumaroylglucosyl)galactoside 0.28–0.08 mg g−1 for extract and 0.27–0.26 mg g−1 for liposomes, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the potential beneficial effect of liposomal encapsulation on individual, particularly acylated, anthocyanins after addition of ascorbic acid during a storage time of 24 h.
LC‐ESI/HRMS analysis of glucosinolates, oxylipins and phenols in Italian rocket salad (Diplotaxis erucoides subsp. erucoides (L.) DC.) and evaluation of its healthy potential
Authors: Loizzo Monica R , Napolitano Assunta , Bruno Maurizio , Geraci Anna , Schicchi Rosario , Leporini Mariarosaria , Tundis Rosa , Piacente Sonia
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the chemical profile and biological activity of Diplotaxis erucoides subsp. erucoides (L.) DC. (Brassicaceae) collected in Sicily (Italy).

RESULTS

Liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI/HRMS) analysis of the ethanol extract revealed the presence of 42 compounds – glucosinolates, hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonoids, and oxylipins. The extract was tested for its antioxidant activity using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic) acid (ABTS), ferric reducing ability power (FRAP), and β‐carotene bleaching tests. Promising protection from lipid peroxidation was observed after 30 min of incubation in a β‐carotene bleaching test (IC50 of 3.32 μg mL−1). The inhibition of carbohydrates‐hydrolyzing enzymes resulted in IC50 values of 85.18 and 92.36 μg mL−1 for α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase, respectively. Significant inhibition against lipase enzyme was observed (IC50 of 61.27 μg mL−1).

CONCLUSION

Diplotaxis erucoides can be considered a potential source of antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic bioactives. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Expressing one's opinions freely on politicians using parodies: Effect of the sources of political parodies (user‐ vs. media‐generated parodies)
Authors: EI Hana Nadr , Sabri Ouidade
Published: March 2021

Political parody, which is entitled to free speech protection under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, aims at criticizing politicians' policies and ideas with humor. As such, political parodies represent a serious threat to a politician's brand image and reputation. Despite their prevalence in political life and debates, the relative persuasive effects of political parodies based on their communication source (user‐generated parody [UGP] vs. media‐generated parody [MGP]) have been underexplored. To fill this gap, we developed two studies. The first study involved content analysis of more than 330 parody videos posted on YouTube between 2012 and April 2019 in France. Our findings, in Study 1, showed that MGP led to fewer likes and a more negative attitude toward the parody than UGP. The second study, based on controlled experiment, provided evidence through mediation; compared to UGP, MGP led to more negative attitudes toward the parody and less perceived influence of the parody because of a higher perception of the source's intention to manipulate. This mediating effect was significant only when individuals were highly skeptical of traditional media. These findings add to current theories of political parody, free speech and user‐generated content and offer actionable insights to practitioners.
“Alexa, order me a pizza!”: The mediating role of psychological power in the consumer–voice assistant interaction
Authors: Tassiello Vito , Tillotson Jack S. , Rome Alexandra S.
Published: March 2021

This article investigates the consumer–voice assistant (VA) interaction in the context of food and beverage purchase choices and the role that psychological power plays in the consumer decision‐making process. A series of experimental studies demonstrate that both involvement and the psychological condition of power meditate consumers' willingness to purchase. As a result, we find that consumers are more likely to purchase low involvement than high‐involvement products through VA technology, particularly when experiencing high‐power states. This study broadens our understanding of the role of VAs and their ability to shape the consumer decision‐making process. With an explicit focus on power, this study illustrates how the success of voice commerce may largely rest on the promotion of low‐involvement products that enable high‐power psychological conditions which drive willingness to purchase.
The Signature of Primary Writing Tremor Is Dystonic
Authors: Latorre Anna , Rocchi Lorenzo , Batla Amit , Berardelli Alfredo , Rothwell John C. , Bhatia Kailash P.
Published: March 2021

Background

It has been debated for decades whether primary writing tremor is a form of dystonic tremor, a variant of essential tremor, or a separate entity. We wished to test the hypothesis that primary writing tremor and dystonia share a common pathophysiology.

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to investigate the pathophysiological hallmarks of dystonia in patients affected by primary writing tremor.

Methods

Ten patients with idiopathic dystonic tremor syndrome, 7 with primary writing tremor, 10 with essential tremor, and 10 healthy subjects were recruited. They underwent eyeblink classic conditioning, blink recovery cycle, and transcranial magnetic stimulation assessment, including motor‐evoked potentials and short‐ and long‐interval intracortical inhibition at baseline. Transcranial magnetic stimulation measures were also recorded after paired‐associative plasticity protocol.

Results

Primary writing tremor and dystonic tremor syndrome had a similar pattern of electrophysiological abnormalities, consisting of reduced eyeblink classic conditioning learning, reduced blink recovery cycle inhibition, and a lack of effect of paired‐associative plasticity on long‐interval intracortical inhibition. The latter 2 differ from those obtained in essential tremor and healthy subjects. Although not significant, slightly reduced short‐interval intracortical inhibition and a larger effect of paired‐associative plasticity in primary writing tremor and dystonic tremor syndrome, compared with essential tremor and healthy subjects, was observed.

Conclusions

Our initial hypothesis of a common pathophysiology between dystonia and primary writing tremor has been confirmed. Primary writing tremor might be considered a form of dystonic tremor. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Positive solutions for fractional boundary value problems under a generalized fractional operator
Authors: Jeelani Mdi B. , Saeed Abdulkafi M. , Abdo Mohammed S. , Shah Kamal
Published: March 2021

The work reported here concerns the study of a generalized nonlinear fractional boundary value problem involving ϑ‐fractional derivative in the Riemann–Liouville sense. The existence and uniqueness of positive solutions to the problem at hand are proved. Our discussion relies on the properties of Green's function, the upper and lower solutions method, and the classical fixed point theorems in a cone. Moreover, building upper and lower control functions has an effective role in the analysis. Some examples are given to justify the validity of theoretical results.
The smallest eigenvalue distribution of the Jacobi unitary ensembles
Authors: Lyu Shulin , Chen Yang
Published: March 2021

In the hard edge scaling limit of the Jacobi unitary ensemble generated by the weight xα(1 − x)β,  x ∈ [0, 1],  α, β > −1, the probability that all eigenvalues of Hermitian matrices from this ensemble lie in the interval [t, 1] is given by the Fredholm determinant of the Bessel kernel. We derive the constant in the asymptotics of this Bessel kernel determinant. A specialization of the results gives the constant in the asymptotics of the probability that the interval (− a, a), a > 0 is free of eigenvalues in the Jacobi unitary ensemble with the symmetric weight (1 − x2)β, x ∈ [− 1, 1].