bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective Bacterial Targeting and Infection‐Triggered Release of Antibiotic Colistin Conjugates
Authors: Tegge Werner , Guerra Giulia , Höltke Alexander , Schiller Lauritz , Beutling Ulrike , Harmrolfs Kirsten , Gröbe Lothar , Wullenkord Hannah , Xu Chunfa , Weich Herbert , Brönstrup Mark
Published: June 2021

In order to render potent, but toxic antibiotics more selective, we have explored a novel conjugation strategy that includes drug accumulation followed by infection‐triggered release of the drug. Bacterial targeting was achieved using a modified fragment of the human antimicrobial peptide ubiquicidin, as demonstrated by fluorophore‐tagged variants. To limit the release of the effector colistin only to infection‐related situations, we introduced a linker that was cleaved by neutrophil elastase (NE), an enzyme secreted by neutrophil granulocytes at infection sites. The linker carried an optimized sequence of amino acids that was required to assure sufficient cleavage efficiency. The antibacterial activity of five regioisomeric conjugates prepared by total synthesis was masked, but was released upon exposure to recombinant NE when the linker was attached to amino acids at the 1‐ or the 3‐position of colistin. A proof‐of‐concept was achieved in co‐cultures of primary human neutrophils and Escherichia coli that induced the secretion of NE, the release of free colistin, and an antibacterial efficacy that was equal to that of free colistin.
Ligand‐Directed Modification of Active Matrix Metalloproteases: Activity‐based Probes with no Photolabile Group
Authors: Kaminska Monika , Bruyat Pierrick , Malgorn Carole , Doladilhe Marion , Cassar‐Lajeunesse Evelyne , Fruchart Gaillard Carole , De Souza Mélissa , Beau Fabrice , Thai Robert , Correia Isabelle , Galat Andrzej , Georgiadis Dimitris , Lequin Olivier , Dive Vincent , Bregant Sarah , Devel Laurent
Published: June 2021

Activity‐based probes enable discrimination between the active enzyme and its inactive or inactivated counterparts. Since metalloproteases catalysis is non‐covalent, activity‐based probes targeting them have been systematically developed by decorating reversible inhibitors with photo‐crosslinkers. By exploiting two types of ligand‐guided chemistry, we identified novel activity‐based probes capable of covalently modifying the active site of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) without any external trigger. The ability of these probes to label recombinant MMPs was validated in vitro and the identity of the main labelling sites within their S3′ region unambiguously assigned. We also demonstrated that our affinity probes can react with rhMMP12 at nanogram scale (that is, at 0.07 % (w/w)) in complex proteomes. Finally, this ligand‐directed chemistry was successfully applied to label active MMP‐12 secreted by eukaryote cells. We believe that this approach could be transferred more widely to many other metalloproteases, thus contributing to tackle their unresolved proteomic profiling in vivo.
Epitaxial Nickel Ferrocyanide Stabilizes Jahn–Teller Distortions of Manganese Ferrocyanide for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Gebert Florian , Cortie David L. , Bouwer James C. , Wang Wanlin , Yan Zichao , Dou Shi‐Xue , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: June 2021

Manganese‐based Prussian Blue, Na2−δMn[Fe(CN)6] (MnPB), is a good candidate for sodium‐ion battery cathode materials due to its high capacity. However, it suffers from severe capacity decay during battery cycling due to the destabilizing Jahn–Teller distortions it undergoes as Mn2+ is oxidized to Mn3+. Herein, the structure is stabilized by a thin epitaxial surface layer of nickel‐based Prussian Blue (Na2−δNi[Fe(CN)6]). The one‐pot synthesis relies on a chelating agent with an unequal affinity for Mn2+ and Ni2+ ions, which prevents Ni2+ from reacting until the Mn2+ is consumed. This is a new and simpler synthesis of core–shell materials, which usually needs several steps. The material has an electrochemical capacity of 93 mA h g−1, of which it retains 96 % after 500 charge–discharge cycles (vs. 37 % for MnPB). Its rate capability is also remarkable: at 4 A g−1 (ca. 55 C) it can reversibly store 70 mA h g−1, which is also reflected in its diffusion coefficient of ca. 10−8 cm2 s−1. The epitaxial outer layer appears to exert an anisotropic strain on the inner layer, preventing the Jahn–Teller distortions it normally undergoes during de‐sodiation.
Sensory white noise improves reading skills and memory recall in children with reading disability
Authors: Söderlund Göran B. W. , Åsberg Johnels Jakob , Rothén Bodil , Torstensson‐Hultberg Ellen , Magnusson Andreas , Fälth Linda
Published: June 2021

Background

Reading disability (RD) is characterized by slow and inaccurate word reading development, commonly reflecting underlying phonological problems. We have previously shown that exposure to white noise acutely improves cognitive performance in children with ADHD. The question addressed here is whether white noise exposure yields positive outcomes also for RD. There are theoretical reasons to expect such a possibility: a) RD and ADHD are two overlapping neurodevelopmental disorders and b) since prior research on white noise benefits has suggested that a central mechanism might be the phenomenon of stochastic resonance, then adding certain kinds of white noise might strengthen the signal‐to‐noise ratio during phonological processing and phoneme–grapheme mapping.

Methods

The study was conducted with a group of 30 children with RD and phonological decoding difficulties and two comparison groups: one consisting of skilled readers (n = 22) and another of children with mild orthographic reading problems and age adequate phonological decoding (n = 30). White noise was presented experimentally in visual and auditory modalities, while the children performed tests of single word reading, orthographic word recognition, nonword reading, and memory recall.

Results

For the first time, we show that visual and auditory white noise exposure improves some reading and memory capacities “on the fly” in children with RD and phonological decoding difficulties. By contrast, the comparison groups displayed either no benefit or a gradual decrease in performance with increasing noise. In interviews, we also found that the white noise exposure was tolerable or even preferred by many children.

Conclusion

These novel findings suggest that poor readers with phonological decoding difficulties may be immediately helped by white noise during reading. Future research is needed to determine the robustness, mechanisms, and long‐term practical implications of the white noise benefits in children with reading disabilities.
Combined cortisol and melatonin measurements with detailed parameter analysis can assess the circadian rhythms in bipolar disorder patients
Authors: Fang Liang , Yu Quanmei , Yin Fanfan , Yu Jiakuai , Zhang Yunfei , Zhang Yu , Zhu Daomin , Qin Ximing
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a common chronic mental illness. The circadian clock disorder shows a significant correlation with the pathogenesis, phenotype and recurrence of BD. We aim to evaluate non‐invasive methods that can comprehensively assess the circadian rhythmicity in BD patients.

Methods

We non‐invasively collected salivary samples and oral epithelial cells from recruited subjects. Then the levels of cortisol and melatonin in saliva were measured and the circadian clock gene expressions (PER2 and BMAL1) of epithelial cells were analyzed. Due to the disease characteristics of the manic patients who were difficult to cooperate with the protocol, only one patient at manic episode was recruited. Besides, 11 patients at the depressive episode, 15 healthy controls and four patients at recovery stage were recruited.

Results

Our results exhibited that the peak phase of cortisol level mainly manifested around 8:00 a.m., and the maximal melatonin level reached around 5:00 a.m. The phase of cortisol in patients with depression did not change significantly, but the level of cortisol decreased significantly, while the phase of melatonin level moved forward about 2.5 hr. Furthermore, the levels and phases of cortisol and melatonin in recovery patients tended to be similar to those of healthy controls.

Conclusions

With detailed parameter analysis, the combined detection of melatonin and cortisol can better judge the biological clock disorder of bipolar patients. The circadian rhythms of patients at the recovery stage tend to be normal. The clock gene expression examination needs strict quality control and more investigations before being applied to assess human circadian rhythms.
The efficacy of group cognitive behavioural therapy in improving adaptive cognitive emotion regulation in Nigerian breast cancer patients
Authors: Onyedibe Maria‐Chidi Christiana , Ifeagwazi Chuka Mike , Charles S Umeh
Published: June 2021

The burden of cancer and psychological distress resulting from cancer‐related experiences may have an impact on women's cognitive emotion regulation. The study investigated the efficacy of a 12‐week group cognitive behavioural therapy (GCBT) programme in enhancing adaptive cognitive emotion regulation (CER) in women with breast cancer at a tertiary healthcare institution in Nigeria. Thirty‐one (31) women with breast cancer were randomly allocated to the treatment group (TG, N = 16) and a control group (CG, N = 15). The TG received a 12‐week course of 90‐min GCBT sessions, while the CG received a booklet containing information on cancer and how to deal with cancer. Assessments were carried out for both groups at the baseline (pretest), post‐test and 2‐month follow‐up with the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. Data were analysed with the independent‐samples t test and the chi‐square test for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. The results showed that participants in the TG had a significant increase in adaptive CER and decrease in maladaptive CER compared with the CG both at post‐treatment and at 2‐month follow‐up. Cognitive behavioural therapy is effective in the improvement of adaptive CER in women with breast cancer. The use of psychotherapy (such as CBT) as complementary treatment to standard oncology care in the management of breast cancer patients in Nigeria is therefore emphasised.
Bio‐Orthogonal Conjugation of a Cationic Metalloporphyrin to BSA and HSA via “Click” Chemistry
Authors: Sandland Jordon , Rimmer Sam D. , Savoie Huguette , Boyle Ross W.
Published: June 2021

In this study, we present a convenient method for the labelling of tyrosine residues on bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum albumin (HSA) and report for the first time their subsequent bio‐orthogonal conjugation with porphyrins via “click” chemistry. We demonstrate that these serum proteins can be labelled with an alkyne‐diazonium heterobifunctional linker and can then undergo chemo‐selective bio‐orthogonal conjugation with a water‐soluble azido metalloporphyrin via “click” chemistry to yield protein‐conjugates that retain their photodynamic properties. In our hands, this method was found to be highly reproducible, scalable, and tuneable which allows for the production of bioconjugates where the porphyrin‐protein conjugate not only retains an ability to generate singlet oxygen but possess an enhanced relative singlet oxygen quantum yields relative to the porphyrin alone. Furthermore, we have investigated the photochemical properties of these conjugates through photospectrometric techniques and have determined that the porphyrin macrocycles remain appreciably photostable under light irradiation. Our phototoxic protein‐photosensitizer‐conjugates show excellent photodynamic activity against a human colorectal adenocarcinoma cancer cell line (HT‐29) with cell viabilities of 7.7±0.5 % (IC50 8.76±2.14 μM) and 1.7±1.9 % (IC50 8.48±5.11 μM) for BSA and HAS, respectively, when irradiated with 20 J cm−2 of white‐light. Importantly, neither of the conjugates was found to possess any significant “dark” toxicity even at concentrations of 100 μM. Furthermore, the natural fluorescent properties of the bioconjugates allowed for the determination of cellular uptake in vitro via fluorescence microscopy thus highlighting the potential theranostic applications of these unique protein‐drug‐conjugates.
Layered Ni−Co−P Electrode Synthesized by CV Electrodeposition for Hydrogen Evolution at Large Currents
Authors: Chen Xiaogang , Zhao Xuan , Wang Yuanyuan , Wang Shanshan , Shang Yuanyuan , Xu Jie , Guo Fengmei , Zhang Yingjiu
Published: June 2021

In recent years, the catalyst efficiency of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has been extensively studied. However, the stability of catalysts at high current densities is still a challenge. Herein, layered Ni−Co−P was electrodeposited on carbon fiber paper (CFP) via cyclic voltammetry (CV). This low‐cost electrode exhibits high efficiency and excellent durability for HER in 1 M KOH. To achieve current densities of 10, 100, 500, and 1000 mA cm−2, Ni−Co−P/CFP required overpotentials of 49, 95, 170, and 295 mV, respectively. The layered structure allows the catalyst to fall off layer by layer. After the outer layer of catalyst falls off, the inner layer of catalyst will be exposed to continue working. After 300 h of HER at 1000 mA cm−2, Ni−Co−P/CFP still has a regular morphology and high efficiency. Our work shows that layered Ni−Co−P/CFP has excellent prospects for practical applications.
Contributions of Internal Atoms of Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters to Catalytic Performances
Authors: Cai Xiao , Sun Yongnan , Xu Jiayu , Zhu Yan
Published: June 2021

Every atom of a heterogeneous catalyst can play a direct or indirect role in its overall catalytic properties. However, it is extremely challenging to determine explicitly which atom(s) of a catalyst can contribute most to its catalytic performance because the observed performance usually reflects an average of all the atoms in the catalyst. The emergence of atomically precise metal nanoclusters brings unprecedented opportunities to address these central issues, as the crystal structures of such nanoclusters have been solved, and hence very fundamental understanding of nanocatalysis can be attained at an atomic level. This minireview focuses on recent efforts to reveal the contributions of the internal atoms or vacancies of nanocluster catalysts to the catalytic processes, including how the catalytic activity can be dramatically changed by the central doping of a foreign atom, how catalytic activation and inactivation can be reversibly switched by shuttling the central atom into and out of nanoclusters, and how evolution in catalytic activity can be driven by structural periodicity in the inner kernels of the nanoclusters. We anticipate that progress in this research area could represent a novel conceptual framework for understanding the crucial roles of internal atoms of the catalysts in tuning the catalytic properties.
Total Synthesis of Nucleoside Antibiotics Amicetin, Plicacetin, and Cytosaminomycin A—D
Authors: Fu Jiqiang , Xu Peng , Yu Biao
Published: June 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Amicetin and congeners constitute a small family of complex pyrimidine nucleosides, which exhibit strong antibiotic activities against Gram‐positive bacteria and notably against strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Herein, we report chemical synthesis of a series of disaccharide congeners of the amicetin family, including amicetin, plicacetin, and cytosaminomycin A—D. It is the first time for successful synthesis of amicetin, the prototypical member, and cytosaminomycins. The synthetic approach employs glycosyl N‐phenyltrifluoroacetimidate and thioglycoside donors to construct the characteristic aminodeoxydisaccharides consisting of α‐(1→4)‐glycosidic linkage, uses gold(I)‐catalyzed N‐glycosylation to furnish 2‐deoxy‐β‐nucleosides, and finally exploits amidation and global deprotection to complete the syntheses. It is noteworthy that the 3‐O‐protecting group in the 2‐deoxydisaccharide donors is found to be crucial for a successful N‐glycosylation to assemble the cytosaminomycin disaccharide nucleosides.
Melatonin inhibits lipid accumulation to repress prostate cancer progression by mediating the epigenetic modification of CES1
Authors: Zhou Lijie , Zhang Cai , Yang Xiong , Liu Lilong , Hu Junyi , Hou Yaxin , Tao Hong , Sugimura Haruhiko , Chen Zhaohui , Wang Liang , Chen Ke
Published: June 2021

Background

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the main clinical treatment for patients with advanced prostate cancer (PCa). However, PCa eventually progresses to castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), largely because of androgen receptor variation and increased intratumoral androgen synthesis. Several studies have reported that one abnormal lipid accumulation is significantly related to the development of PCa. Melatonin (MLT) is a functionally pleiotropic indoleamine molecule and a key regulator of energy metabolism. The aim of our study is finding the links between CRPC and MLT and providing the basis for MLT treatment for CRPC.

Methods

We used animal CRPC models with a circadian rhythm disorder, and PCa cell lines to assess the role of melatonin in PCa.

Results

We demonstrated that MLT treatment inhibited tumor growth and reversed enzalutamide resistance in animal CRPC models with a circadian rhythm disorder. A systematic review and meta‐analysis demonstrated that MLT is positively associated with an increased risk of developing advanced PCa. Restoration of carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) expression by MLT treatment significantly reduced lipid droplet (LD) accumulation, thereby inducing apoptosis by increasing endoplasmic reticulum stress, reducing de novo intratumoral androgen synthesis, repressing CRPC progression and reversing the resistance to new endocrine therapy. Mechanistic investigations demonstrated that MLT regulates the epigenetic modification of CES1. Ces1‐knockout (Ces−/−) mice verified the important role of endogenous Ces1 in PCa.

Conclusions

Our findings provide novel preclinical and clinical information about the role of melatonin in advanced PCa and characterize the importance of enzalutamide combined with MLT administration as a therapy for advanced PCa.
Optimized two‐level scheduler for video traffic in LTE downlink framework
Authors: Elhadad Mohamad I. , El‐Shafai Walid , El‐Rabaie El‐Sayed M. , Abd‐Elnaby Mohammed , Abd El‐Samie Fathi E.
Published: June 2021

The most challenging issue in long‐term evolution (LTE) mobile networks is the design of an optimal scheduler. The main target of the LTE scheduling strategy is to guarantee a certain level of quality of service (QoS) in order to satisfy users' needs. In this work, a novel queue‐optimized two‐level scheduling strategy is introduced. The queue‐optimized scheduler has the ability to support both real‐time (RT) and non‐RT (NRT) services in the LTE downlink framework. The first level of the proposed scheduler depends on an optimized queue length threshold that is dynamically adapted to adjust the assigned resources for the video traffic to maintain the throughput around its average value. The proposed scheduling strategy is utilized to efficiently enhance the radio resource allocation process for video traffic by minimizing the allocation of any excess unwanted resources, which consequently facilitates the support of more video connections and enhances the overall network spectral efficiency. The distribution of the resources among users for RT and NRT applications is actually performed at the second level of the scheduling process. The physical resource blocks (PRBs) are assigned according to the enhanced earliest due date first (EEDDF) mechanism. The proposed scheduling strategy prioritizes users according to their service requirements, to improve the QoS provision. The proposed scheduler maximizes the video applications throughput, and generally, minimizes the packet delay and the packet loss rate (PLR) for RT applications.
3,10‐Diaryl Phenothiazines – One‐pot Synthesis and Conformational Tuning of Ground and Excited State Electronics
Authors: Mayer Laura , Müller Thomas J. J.
Published: June 2021

A broad series of electronically diverse 3,10‐diaryl phenothiazines was readily synthesized by a sequentially Pd‐catalyzed three‐component arylation‐amination synthesis in a one‐pot fashion in moderate to excellent yields. The diversity‐oriented modular nature of the multicomponent reaction concept enables comprehensive investigations of electronic properties of the title compounds by absorption and emission spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and quantum chemical calculations to elucidate their electronic structure. The electronic properties can be fine‐tuned by the fundamental conformational change from intra to extra configuration as well as by introducing different remote electronic substituents. Physical‐organic treatment of the electronic data of a consanguineous series of this library allows establishing semiquantitative linear free energy relationships (LFERs), eventually as a 3D plot for the first oxidation potentials, paves the way to a rational design of tailored 3,10‐diaryl phenothiazines with predictable oxidation potentials and photophysical properties.
An Overview of Biosensors Based on Glutathione Transferases and for the Detection of Glutathione
Authors: Federici Luca , Masulli Michele , Allocati Nerino
Published: June 2021

Glutathione transferases are enzymes involved in the detoxification against xenobiotics and noxious compounds. These enzymes catalyse a variety of reactions on many physiological and xenobiotic compounds using glutathione as a co‐substrate. Moreover, many compounds are inhibitors of such enzymes. A wide array of biosensors based on glutathione transferases have been developed for analysing a variety of noxious compounds, as well as several biosensors devoted to the detection and quantification of glutathione and of glutathione transferases themselves. Here, we review the state of the art in this active field of research, highlighting the possible applications of such devices.
In Situ Electrochemical Production of Metal‐organic Hybrid Composite Film from Nickel Containing Polyoxometalate and 3,4‐Ethylenedioxy‐thiophene for Sensor Application
Authors: Torlak Yasemin , Ayranci Rukiye , Ak Metin
Published: June 2021

In situ electrochemical synthesis of an organic‐inorganic hybrid material composed of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and nickel‐based Keggin type polyoxometalate, K7[NiIIINiII(H2O)W11O39].15H2O(NiPOM), has been proposed here. The remarkable optical and electrical properties of the PEDOT and the unique redox properties of NiPOM have synergistically combined to make the hybrid structure highly desired multi‐functional materials for a myriad of applications. The driving force for the formation of hybrid structure is thought to be electrostatic interactions between POM anions and cationic polaron/bipolaron structures that in the PEDOT. PEDOT/NiPOM based hybrid composite modified graphite electrode has been used for non‐enzymatic glucose sensor platform as a sample of applications. Furthermore, PEDOT/NiPOM based sensor platform was successfully utilized for detection of glucose content with the lowest detection limit in real samples like honey and milk. These results suggest that PEDOT/NiPOM metal‐organic hybrid composite could be utilized as multi‐functional material for a myriad of applications.
A refined nonlinear analytical method for buried pipelines crossing strike‐slip faults
Authors: Talebi Farzad , Kiyono Junji
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a novel nonlinear governing equation and solution procedure for analyzing a buried pipeline at an active strike‐slip fault crossing. The proposed method includes exact nonlinear axial and nonlinear transverse soil–pipe interaction terms, in addition to geometrical nonlinearity terms in the governing equation. The assumption of partitioning the pipeline into four segments with four governing equations based on the soil yield threshold is removed, and a unified governing equation is introduced. Compared with existing methods, the proposed method has a significantly extended application range with improved accuracy and provides the advantage of including the sliding of buried pipelines within soil, transverse soil spring plasticity, and improved large‐deformation effects including the sliding effect. The solution procedure is improved by removing the optimization steps and external calculations. The proposed method is verified by comparison to a verified finite element‐based model with various fault displacements and angles, and the results are in excellent quantitative and qualitative agreement with the numerical results, even for cases of large fault movement. Finally, criteria for assessing the ovalization damage of buried pipelines are proposed. The proposed method fulfills the missed part of literature, and it is valuable for (1) verification of the nonlinear FEM analysis; (2) fast, economic, and reliable stability analysis and design of buried pipelines; and (3) a strong tool for future developments of buried pipelines seismic design guidelines.
An experimental evaluation of the equivalence ratios in tests apparatus used for fire effluent toxicity studies
Authors: Blomqvist Per , Sandinge Anna
Published: June 2021

An experimental evaluation was conducted on the bench‐scale test methods most commonly applied for generating data for fire toxicity assessments. The test methods evaluated were ISO/TS 19700, ISO 5660‐1 with the controlled atmosphere box, and ISO 5659‐2. Toxic gases were quantitatively analyzed using Fourier transfer infrared spectroscopy. Tests were made with 11 different insulation materials and polymethylmethacrylate as a reference material. The evaluation made was on the combustion conditions in the test apparatus, not generally on the precise yields measured. The evaluation focused on the ventilation conditions created in flaming combustion tests. It was seen that ISO/TS 19700 currently offers the best means among the three test methods evaluated for conducting tests at pre‐determined and controlled equivalence ratios. The controlled‐atmosphere cone calorimeter does not give a prolonged steady flaming combustion period for most materials and the influence of vitiation was difficult to predict and limiting in achieving higher equivalence ratios, with the test settings applied. ISO 5659‐2 generally accumulates a mixture of gases from periods of both flaming and nonflaming combustion in a test, and the yields measured do not, in those cases, represent any specific combustion stage. For materials not showing flaming combustion, for example, mineral fiber products, the influence on the test conditions regarding oxygen consumption and heat generation from the material itself is limited compared to burning materials. However, there were specific properties and limitations of the different test methods observed that are important to consider.
Geochemistry of meta‐sediments from Neoproterozoic Shimla and Chail Groups of Outer Lesser Himalaya: Implications for provenance, tectonic setting, and paleo‐weathering conditions
Authors: Joshi Kumar Batuk , Ray Soumya , Ahmad Talat , Manavalan Satyanarayanan , Aradhi Keshav Krishna
Published: June 2021

The depositional history of the Himalayas has been overprinted by the tectonic activities during the Himalayan Orogeny. A detailed investigation of the sedimentary units can provide crucial information regarding their depositional history and provenance. This study aims at constraining the weathering history, tectonic setting, and provenance of meta‐sediments from the Shimla and Chail Groups of Outer Lesser Himalaya. With similar major element chemistry, these meta‐sediments comprise a low‐silica group (avg. SiO2/Al2O3 <3.29). Weathering intensity parameters chemical index of alteration (CIA), plagioclase index of alteration (PIA) and index of chemical variability (ICV) range from 62 to 78 (avg. = 69.41), 70 to 96 (avg. = 85.34), and 0.45 to 1.45 (avg. = 1.01), respectively indicating moderate to severe degrees of weathering. Transition element ratios [Cr/V (1.68–5.18), Ni/Co (1.47–30.99), and V/Ni (0.87–4.61)], and trace element bivariate plots suggest a recycled, felsic to intermediate provenance that has primarily been derived from Post‐Archean sources with minor inputs from Archean units. A passive margin depositional setting with arc‐derived sources is suggested for the Chail and Shimla meta‐sediments. Rare‐earth element patterns reveal similarities between the studied metasediments with TTG gneisses and sanukitoids from the Aravalli and Bundelkhand Cratons, as well as Chaur and Jutogh granitoids. Therefore, Neoproterozoic Himalayan granitoids and Archean Aravalli‐Bundelkhand granitoids (TTGs and high‐K granitoids) could be potential sources of these meta‐sediments, as also suggested by the detrital zircon age distribution from the Beas‐Satluj‐Pabbar valleys and Shimla Group.
Recognition of Late Carboniferous arc‐related volcanic rocks from Ongniud Banner, southeastern Inner Mongolia: Evidence of southward subduction and implication of closure time for Palaeo‐Asian Ocean
Authors: Du Jiyu , Tao Nan , Jiang Bin , Wang Yan , Song Weimin , Qian Cheng , Yang Xiaoping , Zhang Yujin , Chang Shiwei
Published: June 2021

Newly recognized Late Carboniferous volcanic rocks occur in Ongniud Banner on the northern margin of the Sino‐Korean palaeoplate, including rhyolite, dacite, and related volcaniclastic. The volcanic rocks have for a long time been considered to form in the Early Permian. Our new LA‐ICP‐MS U–Pb zircon dating of two rhyolite samples and one dacite sample yielded ages of 305.6 ± 1.6 Ma, 312.2 ± 2.3 Ma, and 305.3 ± 1.7 Ma, respectively, corresponding to the Late Carboniferous. The volcanic rocks are enriched in light rare earth elements (LREEs) and large‐ion lithophile elements (LILEs) and depleted in heavy rare earth elements (HREEs) and high‐field‐strength elements (HFSEs, e.g., Nb, Ta). The positive zircon εHf(t) values (+6.64 to +9.49) of the volcanic rocks and the high Mg# values (47.05–51.47) of some samples indicate the contribution of mantle materials to the sources. Integrated with geological, geochemical, and Lu–Hf isotopic studies, it is considered the volcanic rocks formed in a subduction‐related continental margin arc setting. Combined with the studies in the southeastern part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt on the ophiolitic mélanges, magamatic belts and sedimentary environment of the Late Palaeozoic, collision‐related granites, and so on; it is suggested that the southward subduction for the eastern segment of the Palaeo‐Asian Ocean beneath the northern margin of Sino‐Korean palaeoplate was still occurring in the Late Carboniferous.
Looking around the corner: COVID‐19 shocks and market dynamics in US medical tourism
Authors: Stackpole Irving , Ziemba Elizabeth , Johnson Tricia
Published: June 2021

Patients have historically travelled from across the world to the United States for medical care that is not accessible locally or not available at the same perceived quality. The COVID‐19 pandemic has nearly frozen the cross‐border buying and selling of healthcare services, referred to as medical tourism. Future medical travel to the United States may also be deterred by the combination of an initially uncoordinated public health response to the pandemic, an overall troubled atmosphere arising from widely publicized racial tensions and pandemic‐related disruptions among medical services providers. American hospitals have shifted attention to domestic healthcare needs and risk mitigation to reduce and recover from financial losses. While both reforms to the US healthcare system under the Biden Presidency and expansion to the Affordable Care Act will influence inbound and outbound medical tourism for the country, new international competitors are also likely to have impacts on the medical tourism markets. In response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, US‐based providers are forging new and innovative collaborations for delivering care to patients abroad that promise more efficient and higher quality of care which do not necessitate travel.
On planar arcs of size (q+3)∕2
Authors: Günay Gülizar , Lavrauw Michel
Published: June 2021

The subject of this paper is the study of small complete arcs in , for odd, with at least points on a conic. We give a short comprehensive proof of the completeness problem left open by Segre in his seminal work. This gives an alternative to Pellegrino's long proof which was obtained in a series of papers in the 1980s. As a corollary of our analysis, we obtain a counterexample to a misconception in the literature.
Prenatal genetic counselors' perceptions of the impact of abortion legislation on counseling and access in the United States
Authors: Jayaraman Susheela , Koenig Shelby , Fiddler Morry , Simi Eve , Goldenberg Aaron , Magasi Susan , Wicklund Catherine
Published: June 2021

Genetic counselors have an important role in offering and appropriate coordinating abortion services for patients identified with a fetal abnormality. Few studies have been conducted to determine the effects of legislation on genetic counselors and patients. This study aimed to further our understanding of genetic counselors’ perception of the impact of abortion regulations on their practice, the perceived financial and emotional impact on their patients and their ability to access abortion. A 22‐question survey was developed based on themes identified by a qualitative study (Koenig et al., 2019, Journal of Genetic Counseling, 28, 790–801), and distributed to members of the National Society of Genetic Counselors; data from 113 respondents are analyzed. For analysis, participants were categorized into three groups based on the restrictiveness of their state's abortion legislation (supportive, middle ground, hostile) using the Guttmacher Institute's designation based on the amount of restrictive abortion legislation in their state. Participants reported that legislative gestational age restrictions significantly impact their counseling and coordinating of abortion services. Participants reported emotional and financial burdens that impact their patients seeking abortion; however, those in hostile states were significantly more likely to report a perceived financial or emotional impact on their patients. Participants in hostile states were more likely than those in supportive states to report that many of the addressed legislative and institutional regulations impact patients’ ability to access abortion. Abortion regulations limiting the decision‐making time frame for patients with a fetal abnormality have a significant impact on the practice of prenatal genetic counseling. Further restrictions may change how genetic counselors choose to counsel their patients about the option of abortion, but also may limit the availability of choices particularly for patients in rural areas, in hostile states, and those without the financial resources to travel or pursue termination at later gestational ages.
Sudden shift to remote genetic counseling during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Experiences of genetics professionals in Italy
Authors: Turchetti Daniela , Battistuzzi Linda , Bertonazzi Benedetta , Godino Lea
Published: June 2021

The 2020 COVID‐19 pandemic has rendered in‐person provision of genetic counseling impossible for prolonged periods in many countries, mandating a sudden shift to remote delivery. We used qualitative thematic analysis to explore Italian genetics professionals’ experience with remote genetic counseling. Fourteen group and four individual interviews were conducted after participants had delivered one or more remote sessions via videoconference or on the telephone. Data were coded and grouped under themes. Three main themes were identified as follows: (a) technical and logistical issues, (b) communication issues, and (c) clinical content and outcome of the session. The participants acknowledged that not having to travel to the clinic saves consultands time and expense. They also highlighted that not sharing a physical space with consultands and having to rely on technology can negatively impact on effective communication, building trusting relationships, and performing accurate psychosocial assessments. Regarding the clinical content of sessions, remote genetic counseling was perceived to favor greater focus and succinct, to the point communication. However, participants also felt uncomfortable not being able to use visual aids to support the explanation of complex concepts. Moreover, demographics and the socio‐cultural status of consultands emerged as factors influencing the outcome of remote genetic counseling sessions. Finally, participants reported feeling that more experience with this novel approach would improve their confidence and their ability to adapt their counseling skills as appropriate. Based on these findings, we suggest that effective, equitable provision of remote genetic counseling will require an infrastructure that is able to support video counseling, sharing of clinical documents and visual aids, and connect with a wide range of devices. Moreover, the structure of sessions should be tailored to the specific requirements of remote genetic counseling and suitable training efforts should be promoted to enhance professionals’ communication skills.
lncRNA IGF2‐AS promotes the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by sponging miR‐3,126‐5p to upregulate KLK4
Authors: Tang Jia Zhu , Zhao Guo Yang , Zhao Jian Zhong , Di Dong Hua , Wang Bo
Published: June 2021

Background

Osteoporosis (OP) is a bone disease characterized by reduced amount and quality of bone. This study was designed to explore the role and mechanism of lncRNA IGF2‐AS in the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs).

Methods

Human lncRNA and miRNA microarray analyses were performed to measure the differential expression levels of lncRNAs and miRNAs in undifferentiated and osteogenically differentiated BMSCs. lncRNA IGF2‐AS, miR‐3,126‐5p, and KLK4 levels were measured by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs was assessed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and Alizarin Red staining (ARS). Protein levels of osterix (Osx), osteocalcin (OCN), and runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) were examined by RT‐PCR and western blot assays. The binding relationship between miR‐3,126‐5p and lncRNA IGF2‐AS or KLK4 was predicted by TargetScan (http://www.targetscan.org/vert_72/) and then verified with a dual‐luciferase reporter assay.

Results

lncRNA IGF2‐AS and KLK4 were highly expressed and miR‐3,126‐5p was weakly expressed in osteogenically differentiated BMSCs. Moreover, lncRNA IGF2‐AS overexpression enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. In contrast, lncRNA IGF2‐AS knockdown showed the opposite trend. Moreover, miR‐3,126‐5p overexpression abolished the lncRNA IGF2‐AS‐mediated osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. lncRNA IGF2‐AS functions as a sponge of miR‐3,126‐5p to regulate KLK4 expression.

Conclusion

lncRNA IGF2‐AS enhances the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by modulating the miR‐3,126‐5p/KLK4 axis, suggesting a promising therapeutic target for bone‐related diseases.
Natural abundance analysis of the role played by 15N as indicator for the certification of organic‐system deriving food
Authors: Trapp Talita , Inácio Caio de Teves , Ciotta Marlise Nara , Hindersmann Jacson , Lima Andria Paula , dos Santos Thiago Stacowski , Ferreira Guilherme Wilbert , Morais Gildean Portela , de Conti Lessandro , Comin Jucinei José , Loss Arcângelo , Giacomini Sandro José , Lourenzi Cledimar Rogério , Rozane Danilo Eduardo , Brunetto Gustavo
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

The natural abundance of stable isotope 15N (δ15N) in production systems has emerged as an alternative to distinguish organic products from conventional ones. This study evaluated the use of δ15N values recorded for nitrogen fertilizers, soil and plant tissue in order to set the differences between organic and conventional agricultural production systems applied to rice, potatoes, apple and banana crops.

RESULTS

Values of δ15N recorded for N sources ranged from +5.58‰ to +18.27‰ and from −3.55‰ to +3.19‰ in organic and synthetic fertilizers, respectively. Values recorded for δ15N in food from organic rice, potatoes and banana farms were higher than values recorded for δ15N in conventional farms; the same was observed for values recorded for δ15N in leaves from the four crops.

CONCLUSION

Results have allowed for differentiation between production systems due to values of δ15N recorded in leaves of all crops and food, for rice, potatoes and banana trees. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Safety and donor site morbidity of the transverse musculocutaneous gracilis (TMG) flap in autologous breast reconstruction—A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Siegwart Laura Cosima , Bolbos Anca , Tapking Christian , Seide Svenja E. , Diehm Yannick , Fischer Sebastian , Kneser Ulrich , Kotsougiani‐Fischer Dimitra
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

The transverse musculocutaneous gracilis (TMG) flap has gained popularity for breast reconstruction. However, the literature regarding its donor site morbidity is heterogeneous. This systematic review sought to clarify the evidence on donor site morbidity.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted. We included all articles reporting on donor‐site morbidity of the TMG flap for breast reconstruction. The results were analyzed in R and its extension meta. A generalized linear mixed model was used to combine proportions and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in a random‐effects meta‐analysis.

Results

Nineteen articles provided an overall sample of 843 TMG flaps. The total flap loss was low at 2% (95% CI, 1%–3%). All patients were normal weight (pooled body mass index 22.75, 95% CI, 21.88–23.63). The incidence of wound dehiscence (8%, 95% CI, 4%–16%), seroma (4%, 95% CI, 2%–7%), hematoma (2%, 95% CI, 1%–4%) and infection (0%–5%) on the TMG donor site was low. Functional impairments included sensory disturbance (0%–74%), motoric deficits (0%–50%), and changes in the genital region (0%–24%), all of which were modest.

Conclusions

This review confirms the safety and low donor site morbidity of the TMG flap in normal‐weight patients, which is comparable to that of other popular free flaps in breast reconstruction.
An approach to fast 2D nuclear magnetic resonance at low concentration based on p‐H2‐induced polarization and nonuniform sampling
Authors: Aspers Ruud L. E. G. , Tessari Marco
Published: June 2021

Recent developments in para‐hydrogen‐induced polarization (PHIP) methods allow the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) detection of specific classes of compounds, down to sub‐micromolar concentration in solution. However, when dealing with complex mixtures, signal resolution requires the acquisition of 2D PHIP‐NMR spectra, which often results in long experimental times. This strongly limits the applicability of these 2D PHIP‐NMR techniques in areas in which high‐throughput analysis is required. Here, we present a combination of fast acquisition and nonuniform sampling that can afford a 10‐fold reduction in measuring time without compromising the spectral quality. This approach was tested on a mixture of substrates at micromolar concentration, for which a resolved 2D PHIP spectrum was acquired in less than 3 min.
Effects of a gel culture system made of polysaccharides (xanthan gum and locust bean gum) on in vitro bovine oocyte development and gene expression of the granulosa cells
Authors: Sugimoto Ayaka , Inoue Yuki , Tanaka Keisuke , Sinozawa Akihisa , Shirasuna Koumei , Iwata Hisataka
Published: June 2021

Xanthan gum (XG) and locust bean gum (LBG) are nontoxic polysaccharides that produce culture substrates. The present study examined the effect of XG‐LBG gel on in vitro bovine oocyte growth and gene expression in granulosa cells. Oocytes and granulosa cell complexes (OGCs) were cultured in vitro on plastic culture plate (Plate) or XG‐LBG gel for 16 days. OGCs formed a dome‐like cavity surrounding the oocytes on plate but formed a spherical follicle structure on XG‐LBG gel. The total granulosa cell numbers of the OGCs and their survival rate was greater for OGCs cultured on XG‐LBG gel than for those cultured on plate. Oocytes grown on XG‐LBG gels had higher lipid and mitochondrial content, as well as a larger diameter, than their plate counterparts. When oocytes grown in vitro were subjected to in vitro maturation and fertilization, the normal fertilization rate was significantly higher for oocytes developed on XG‐LBG gel than that of oocytes cultured on the plate counterpart. RNAseq of the granulosa cells revealed that genes associated with focal adhesion, phosphatidylinositol 3'‐kinase‐Akt and Hippo signaling, and regulation of actin cytoskeleton were upregulated in granulosa cells of OGCs cultured on XG‐LBG gel compared with those cultured on plate.
Effect of Vitamin C on Lead-Induced Cell Viability Levels, Oxidative Stress, and Immune-Related Gene Expression in Grass Carp Kidney Cells
Authors: Liu Jia , Zhang Peijun , Gao Chunshan , Yin Yuwei , Wang Nan , Li Yuehong
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of the potential of vitamin C in relieving lead-induced antioxidant and immune responses in Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella kidney (CIK) cells. In this study, CIK cells were treated with vitamin C (0, 60, 80, 100, 120, and 140 µM) and lead (0 and 25 µM). Cell viability, oxidative response, and immune-related gene expression were assessed. These results showed that cell viability was significantly decreased by exposure to lead and that vitamin C supplementation alone had no significant effect on cell viability, but vitamin C supplementation can alleviate the effect of lead on cell viability. Furthermore, vitamin C supplementation can increase the antioxidant capacity and the expression of immune-related genes. Ultimately, these results suggest that vitamin C has a protective effect on CIK cells when they are exposed to lead.
Intergenerational Educational Attainment and Cardiometabolic Health in Latino Individuals Living in the United States
Authors: Crenshaw Emma G. , Fernández‐Rhodes Lindsay , Martin Chantel L. , Gordon‐Larsen Penny , Haan Mary N. , Aiello Allison E.
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study aimed to estimate the association between cycles of poverty, measured by intergenerational educational attainment (IEA), and the burden of obesity and metabolic dysfunction among Hispanic/Latino individuals in the United States.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study utilizing data from 392 adults linked to 286 biologic parents from the Niños Lifestyle and Diabetes Study and the Sacramento Area Latino Study on Aging. The educational attainment of parents and offspring was dichotomized in order to categorize IEA. Outcomes included obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Model‐based standardization with population weights was used to compare obesity and MetS across generations, and Poisson regression was used to estimate prevalence ratios by IEA.

Results

A higher prevalence of obesity and MetS was observed in offspring (54% and 69%, respectively) compared with their parents (48% and 42%, respectively). Compared with stable‐low IEA, any category with high offspring education was associated with lower obesity and MetS prevalence. The upwardly mobile group saw the greatest benefit; they were 38% (95% CI: 10%‐57%) and 46% (95% CI: 21%‐63%) less likely to have obesity or MetS.

Conclusions

IEA strongly patterns cardiometabolic health among Hispanic/Latino individuals living in the United States, suggesting that promotion of higher education is associated with reductions in obesity and MetS, potentially benefitting future generations of this population.