bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selenomethionine modulates insulin secretion in the MIN6‐K8 mouse insulinoma cell line
Authors: Zhao Lidan , Carmean Christopher M. , Landeche Michael , Chellan Bijoy , Sargis Robert M.
Published: November 2021

Selenium is an essential trace element of interest for its potential role in glucose homeostasis. The present study investigated the impact of selenium supplementation as selenomethionine (SeMet) on insulin secretion in MIN6‐K8 cells, a pancreatic β‐cell model. We found that SeMet enhanced percent glucose‐induced insulin secretion, while also increasing tolbutamide‐ and KCl‐induced percent insulin secretion. RNA‐sequencing showed that SeMet supplementation altered expression of several selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidase 3 (Gpx3) and selenoprotein P (SelP). Targeted knockdown of Gpx3 increased both percent and total insulin release, while SelP knockdown increased insulin content and insulin release. Collectively, these studies support a putative role for selenium and selenoproteins in the regulation of insulin secretion, glucose homeostasis, and diabetes risk.
The Janus Nature of Nanohydroxyapatite in Tumor Progression
Authors: He Jia‐ying , Shen Min‐juan , Wan Qian‐qian , Zhang Yu‐song , Xiao Yu‐hong , Wei Jian‐hua , Liu Yuan , Yan Jian‐fei , Wan Mei‐chen , Xu Ke‐hui , Jiao Kai , Tay Franklin , Niu Li‐na
Published: November 2021

Nanohydroxyapatite (nHAP) has broad applications because of its nanoscopical dimension, large specific surface area, biocompatibility, and low cytotoxicity. Researchers recently discovered that nHAP synthesized in vitro inhibits the growth of different types of tumor cells. Nanohydroxyapatite with potent drug adsorption and loading capacity has potential applications in tumor diagnosis and treatment. Because local tumors and areas of tumor metastasis also produce pathological nHAP in vivo to promote progression and invasion, the role of nHAP in tumorigenesis and development is perceived literature by many as Janus, the double‐faced deity in ancient Roman mythology. In the present review, two types of nHAP (those synthesized in vitro and those produced in vivo) that are affiliated with tumors, their mechanisms in tumor progression as well as their applications in tumor treatment are elucidated to create a backdrop for future research in this exciting, yet controversial arena.
A Hierarchical‐Structured Mineralized Nanofiber Scaffold with Osteoimmunomodulatory and Osteoinductive Functions for Enhanced Alveolar Bone Regeneration
Authors: He Yang , Tian Mi , Li Xilin , Hou Jianwen , Chen Song , Yang Guang , Liu Xian , Zhou Shaobing
Published: November 2021

Alveolar bone resorption is a major cause of teeth loss and jeopardizes the osseointegration of dental implants, greatly affecting patient's quality of life and health. It is still a great challenge to completely regenerate the alveolar bone defect through traditional guided bone regeneration (GBR) membranes due to their limited bioactivity and regeneration potential. Herein, a new hierarchical‐structured mineralized nanofiber (HMF) scaffold, which is combined with both anisotropic and isotropic nanofibrous surface topography and the mineralized particles, is fabricated via a simple template‐assisted electrospinning technology and in situ mineralization method. This HMF scaffold can not only directly induce osteogenic differentiation of bone mesenchymal stem cells (osteoinduction), but also stimulate macrophage toward pro‐healing (M2) phenotype‐polarization with an elevated secretion of the pro‐healing cytokines, eventually enhancing the osteogenesis (osteoimmunomodulation). The results of in vivo rat alveolar bone defect repair experiments demonstrate that as compared with the combination of commercial Bio‐Gide and Bio‐Oss, the single HMF scaffold shows comparable or even superior bone repair effect, with better tissue‐integration and more suitable degradation time and accompanied by a simplified operation.
A Novel Touch Interface with Ultrahigh Optical Transmittance Based on Electrical Impedance Tomography for Interactive Displays
Authors: Gao Shuo , Lv Ruihan , Sun Shijie
Published: November 2021

In traditional touch interfaces, electrodes will block the light intensity of the display, so extra power is required to maintain the display performance. In this article, an eight‐electrode electrical impedance tomography system for touch location detection is proposed to improve the transmittance. The electrodes are settled at the edge of the touch panel and a machine learning algorithm is used to perform the regression process. This system can achieve almost 1 mm mean absolute error in X‐ and Y‐directions on a 30 × 30 mm2 2D surface and guarantee nearly 94% light transmittance. The results from experiments show the feasibility of the new structure for high optical transmittance interactive display in the future.
Spontaneous Construction of Multidimensional Heterostructure Enables Enhanced Hole Extraction for Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells to Exceed 20% Efficiency
Authors: Zhang Shiang , Zhang Lu , Tian Qingwen , Gu Xiaojing , Du Yachao , Zhao Kui , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: November 2021

CsPbI3−xBrx‐based organic‐free perovskite has emerged as a superstar photovoltaic material not only because of its superior photoelectronic properties but also its outstanding thermal and chemical stability. Unfortunately, the significant energy loss resulting from its nonradiative recombination has become a major obstacle to further improvement of device performance. Here, a 2D/3D multidimensional structure formed spontaneously at room temperature is developed. The results reveal that the formed Ruddlesden–Popper 2D (n = 1) perovskite atop CsPbI3−xBrx plays an active role in mediating carrier transport, maintaining a long‐life charge separation state on the nanosecond time scale and promoting the efficiency of carrier injection into the hole transport layer, and thus enhances the hole extraction efficiency, which greatly reduces severe interfacial nonradiative charge recombination. In addition, the undercoordinated Pb2+ is effectively passivated, resulting in significantly reduced surface trap density and prolonged charge lifetime within the perovskite films. Consequently, the combination of the above increases the solar cell efficiency from 19.05% to 20.31%, with an open‐circuit voltage raised to 1.23 from 1.17 V, which corresponds to an energy loss reduction from 0.54 to 0.49 eV. Also, the optimized solar cells exhibit better long‐term and thermal stability.
Which ICD‐9 codes were assigned for malignant mesothelioma in the mortality data in the United States before the ICD‐10 was introduced?
Authors: Tai Shu‐Yu , Wu Jingyi , Lee Lukas Jyuhn‐Hsiarn , Lu Tsung‐Hsueh
Published: November 2021

Background

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is rare and fatal; survival in most cases is only about one year. Mortality rate is, therefore, a good proxy measure of incidence rate. However, the specific International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code for MM was not available until the Tenth Revision ICD (ICD‐10). Little is known on which Ninth Revision ICD (ICD‐9) codes were assigned for MM in the ICD‐9 era.

Methods

We used a 1996 double‐coded mortality file compiled by the National Center for Health Statistics to calculate the detection rate (DR) and confirmation rate (CR) of selected ICD‐9 codes.

Results

Of 2386 decedents whose underlying cause of death was MM (ICD‐10 code C45), the DR (deaths) of corresponding ICD‐9 code was 57% (1365) for code 199 “malignant neoplasm without specification of site;” 19% (448) for code 162.9 “malignant neoplasm of trachea, bronchus, and lung, unspecified;” 13% (310) for code 163 “malignant neoplasm of pleura;” and 11% (271) for other codes. The CR (deaths) for the aforementioned three ICD‐9 codes were 4.0% (1365/33,942), 0.3% (448/150,342), and 70.8% (310/438), respectively.

Conclusions

The three ICD‐9 codes (199, 162.9, and 163) were the most commonly used codes for MM and composed nine‐tenths of all MM deaths in the years before the ICD‐10 was introduced. Using only ICD‐9 code 163, the code most often used as the surrogate measure of MM in mortality studies in the ICD‐9 era, capture may have been only 13% of all MM deaths in the US, and the estimated number of MM deaths missed in 1996 would be 2086.
Synthetic Silica Nano‐Organelles for Regulation of Cascade Reactions in Multi‐Compartmentalized Systems
Authors: Jiang Shuai , Caire da Silva Lucas , Ivanov Tsvetomir , Mottola Milagro , Landfester Katharina
Published: November 2021

In eukaryotic cells, enzymes are compartmentalized into specific organelles so that different reactions and processes can be performed efficiently and with a high degree of control. In this work, we show that these features can be artificially emulated in robust synthetic organelles constructed using an enzyme co‐compartmentalization strategy. We describe an in situ encapsulation approach that allows enzymes to be loaded into silica nanoreactors in well‐defined compositions. The nanoreactors can be combined into integrated systems to produce a desired reaction outcome. We used the selective enzyme co‐compartmentalization and nanoreactor integration to regulate competitive cascade reactions and to modulate the kinetics of sequential reactions involving multiple nanoreactors. Furthermore, we show that the nanoreactors can be efficiently loaded into giant polymer vesicles, resulting in multi‐compartmentalized microreactors.
Relapsing Klebsiella pneumoniae meningitis in a patient with COVID‐19
Authors: Ronan N. , Jackson M. , Juhasz V. , Scarr D.
Published: November 2021

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a common cause of potentially life‐threatening infection. This report describes a relapsing healthcare‐associated Klebsiella pneumoniae meningitis in a 60‐year‐old patient who had SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. During their initial admission for COVID‐19 pneumonitis and treatment with corticosteroids, the patient developed signs and symptoms suggestive of bacterial meningitis. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid cultures confirmed Klebsiella pneumoniae as the causative organism. The patient was treated with a prolonged course of high‐dose meropenem and made an apparent recovery. Four days after hospital discharge, the patient re‐presented critically unwell. Klebsiella pneumoniae was once again isolated from cerebrospinal fluid. During their second admission, the patient deteriorated despite antimicrobial treatment, and life‐sustaining therapies were withdrawn. This case highlights that all COVID‐19 patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy should be monitored for potential opportunistic infection. Prompt recognition and early antimicrobial therapy are key to improving patient outcomes.
Preparation and properties of triethyl citrate plasticized chitosan‐based membranes for efficient release of curcumin
Authors: Huo Li , Wei Yuru , Zhang Haixia , Wang Ying , Deng Bo , Wang Yaxiong , Jin Li'e
Published: November 2021

In order to improve the release efficiency and physical properties of single polysaccharide membranes, two types of curcumin (Cur)‐loaded composite membranes have been successfully prepared through chitosan (CS)/carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), CS/soluble starch (SS) with triethyl citrate (TEC) as a plasticizer. The structure and properties of the membranes were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and thermogravimetry. The results of mechanical tests and drug release experiments show that TEC changes the intermolecular forces in the membrane matrix, makes the membrane more flexible and increases the cumulative release rate of curcumin. The cumulative release rate of Cur in CS/CMC‐Cur and the CS/SS‐Cur membrane can reach 86.5% and 87.3% at 24 h, respectively. Cur release in CS/CMC‐Cur followed the irregular Fickian diffusion behavior, whereas in CS/SS‐Cur followed the non‐Fickian diffusion behavior. The prepared composite membrane performs good thermal stability, tensile resistance and strong inhibitory effect on Escherichia coli.
Spinnability and characterization of poly(D‐lactic acid)‐blended poly(L‐lactic acid) filament yarns
Authors: Celen Onur , Kocer Hasan Basri
Published: November 2021

Conventional textiles are produced mainly by petroleum‐based polymeric materials, which are not biodegradable, cause serious pollution, and waste problems. Especially, poly(ethylene terephthalate) is the most used thermoplastic polyester in various textile applications. At this point, poly(lactic acid) (PLA), a biodegradable polyester, stands out forward with its unique properties. PLA is derived from renewable sources such as corn, sugar cane, and so on. In this study, poly(D‐lactic acid) (PDLA) was blended to poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) to reduce its highly crystalline morphology and rigidity. Introduction of PDLA would be expected to speed up its degradation by decreasing the amount of crystalline regions. PDLA was compounded into PLLA in amounts of 3, 6, and 9 wt%. First, PDLA‐blended PLLA compounds were produced, and then successfully spun/drawn into filament yarns by using a pilot‐scale melt spinning equipment. The compounds and the filament yarns were characterized by SEM, DSC, viscosity, carboxyl number, tenacity, elongation at break, unevenness, and shrinkage. Results showed that the amount of crystalline regions was decreased with increasing PDLA amount in both compounds and filament yarns. On the other hand, PDLA blending enhanced the rigidity of filament yarns by increasing their elongation at break.
The contribution of ontogenetic growth trajectories on the divergent evolution of the crocodylian skull table
Authors: Cossette Adam P. , Grass Andy D. , DeGuzman Thomas
Published: November 2021

To explore shape variability among crocodylian skull tables, an analysis using geometric morphometric methods is conducted with the inclusion of extant and fossil taxa. Skull tables are variable and the differences likely play a role in hydrodynamics, species recognition, and biomechanical adaptations. Comparisons of allometric change within taxa are explored revealing that adults significantly diverge from juvenile skull table morphologies in most species and these changes happen in a stereotyped way. In all analyses, adults of the smallest extant taxa plot alongside the juveniles of related taxa and heterochrony may explain the maintenance of these morphologies into adulthood. When landmarks representing the supratemporal fenestrae are included, longirostrine taxa are broadly separated from one another due to variation in the size of the supratemporal fenestrae. The hypotheses of previous studies suggesting that the size of the supratemporal fenestrae is influenced by snout length—with longer snouts corresponding to larger fenestrae—must be re‐evaluated. Although species of the crocodyloids Tomistoma and Euthecodon approach or exceed the length of the snout in gavialoids, their supratemporal fenestrae are proportionally smaller—this suggests a phylogenetic constraint in crocodyloids regardless of snout length.
TP53 mutations are associated with primary endocrine resistance in luminal early breast cancer
Authors: Grote Isabel , Bartels Stephan , Kandt Leonie , Bollmann Laura , Christgen Henriette , Gronewold Malte , Raap Mieke , Lehmann Ulrich , Gluz Oleg , Nitz Ulrike , Kuemmel Sherko , zu Eulenburg Christine , Braun Michael , Aktas Bahriye , Grischke Eva‐Maria , Schumacher Claudia , Luedtke‐Heckenkamp Kerstin , Kates Ronald , Wuerstlein Rachel , Graeser Monika , Harbeck Nadia , Christgen Matthias , Kreipe Hans
Published: November 2021

Background

Whereas the genomic landscape of endocrine‐resistant breast cancer has been intensely characterized in previously treated cases with local or distant recurrence, comparably little is known about genomic alterations conveying primary non‐responsiveness to endocrine treatment in luminal early breast cancer.

Methods

In this study, 622 estrogen receptor‐expressing breast cancer cases treated with short‐term preoperative endocrine therapy (pET) from the WSG‐ADAPT trial (NCT01779206) were analyzed for genetic alterations associated with impaired endocrine proliferative response (EPR) to 3‐week pET with tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. EPR was categorized as optimal (post‐pET Ki67 <10%) versus slightly, moderately, and severely impaired (post‐pET Ki67 10%–19%, 20%–34%, and ≥35%, respectively). Recently described gene mutations frequently found in previously treated advanced breast cancer were analyzed (ARID1A, BRAF, ERBB2, ESR1, GATA3, HRAS, KRAS, NRAS, PIK3CA, and TP53) by next‐generation sequencing. Amplifications of CCND1, FGFR1, ERBB2, and PAK1 were determined by digital PCR or fluorescence in situ hybridization.

Results

ERBB2 amplification (p = 0.0015) and mutations of TP53 (p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with impaired EPR. Impaired EPR in TP53‐mutated breast cancer cases was independent from the Oncotype DX Recurrence Score group and was seen both with tamoxifen‐ and aromatase inhibitor‐based pET (p = 0.0005 each).

Conclusion

We conclude that impaired EPR to pET is suitable to identify cases with primary endocrine resistance in early luminal breast cancer and that TP53‐mutated luminal cancers might not be sufficiently treated by endocrine therapy alone.
Towards a Systematic Data Harmonization to Enable AI Application in the Process Industry
Authors: Wiedau Michael , Tolksdorf Gregor , Oeing Jonas , Kockmann Norbert
Published: November 2021

Current methods of artificial intelligence may often proof ineffective in the process industry, usually because of insufficient data availability. In this contribution, we investigate how data standards can contribute to fulfill the data availability requirements of machine learning methods. We give an overview of AI use cases relevant in the process industry, name related requirements and discuss known standards in the context of implicit vs. explicit data. We conclude with a roadmap sketching how to bring the results of this contribution into practical application.
Was Windturbinen den richtigen Dreh gibt
Authors: Henningsen Michael , Ruckdäschel Holger
Published: November 2021

Die Windenergie hat sich in den letzten Jahrzehnten zu einem wichtigen Pfeiler der Stromproduktion entwickelt. Ein modernes Rotorblatt besteht aus Kompositmaterialien, die mit Hilfe von unterschiedlichen Verarbeitungstechnologien aufgebaut werden. Als Rohstoffe kommen Glas‐ und Carbonfasern, Tränkharze, Kernmaterialien und Strukturklebstoffe zum Einsatz, anschließend werden mehrere Coatingsschichten aufgebracht. Kleinere Reparaturen der Rotorblätter können mit Hilfe von schnell verarbeitbaren Systemen vor Ort durchgeführt werden. Nach Ende der Lebensdauer sind Entsorgungs‐ und zunehmend Recyclingkonzepte in Richtung einer nachhaltigen Kreislaufwirtschaft erforderlich.
Investigating Alkylated Prodigiosenes and Their Cu(II)‐Dependent Biological Activity: Interactions with DNA, Antimicrobial and Photoinduced Anticancer Activity
Authors: Doniz Kettenmann Sebastian , White Matthew , Colard‐Thomas Julien , Kraft Matilda , Feßler Andrea T. , Danz Karin , Wieland Gerhard , Wagner Sylvia , Schwarz Stefan , Wiehe Arno , Kulak Nora
Published: November 2021

Prodigiosenes are a family of red pigments with versatile biological activity. Their tripyrrolic core structure has been modified many times in order to manipulate the spectrum of activity. We have been looking systematically at prodigiosenes substituted at the C ring with alkyl chains of different lengths, in order to assess the relevance of this substituent in a context that has not been investigated before for these derivatives: Cu(II) complexation, DNA binding, self‐activated DNA cleavage, photoinduced cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity. Our results indicate that the hydrophobic substituent has a clear influence on the different aspects of their biological activity. The cytotoxicity study of the Cu(II) complexes of these prodigiosenes shows that they exhibit a strong cytotoxic effect towards the tested tumor cell lines. The Cu(II) complex of a prodigiosene lacking any alkyl chain excelled in its photoinduced anticancer activity, thus demonstrating the potential of prodigiosenes and their metal complexes for an application in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Two derivatives along with their Cu(II) complexes showed also antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus strains.
Compassion and complex interpersonal trauma in adolescence: An early systematic review
Authors: Amari Nicola , Mahoney Adam
Published: November 2021

Background

Whilst childhood trauma has been identified as a transdiagnostic risk factor for poly‐psychopathology, compassion‐focused interventions have emerged as transdiagnostic treatment modality. However, no previous systematic review has specifically explored the relationship between complex interpersonal trauma and compassion in adolescence. The aim of this early systematic review was to evaluate the existing evidence on the role of compassion in adolescents with complex interpersonal trauma.

Methods

A systematic search of electronic databases was undertaken to identify cross‐sectional and intervention studies that examined the role of compassion in the amelioration of psychopathology in adolescence.

Results

Nine studies, including three intervention studies and six cross‐sectional studies, met the inclusion criteria. The findings suggested a mediating role of compassion in trauma‐specific and overall psychopathology.

Conclusion

Despite the dearth of research, this review suggests that integrating compassion might mediate the relationship between complex trauma and psychopathology in adolescents.
Evaluating the impact of Rht hypomorphic mutations in durum wheat
Authors: Brown McKenna M. , Martin John M. , Jobson Emma M. , Hogg Andrew C. , Carr Patrick M. , Giroux Michael J.
Published: November 2021

Increasing the yield of wheat (Triticum spp.) requires identifying new allelic combinations by crossing or by creating useful variation in yield limiting genes. Wheat yield is impacted by many factors, including tiller number and seeds per tiller, both of which are impacted by the Reduced height (Rht) gene. Durum wheat [T. turgidum L. subsp. durum (Desf.) van Slageren] varieties are either standard height, wild type for Rht (Rht‐B1a), or are semidwarf and carry the Rht‐B1b allele. Rht‐B1b increases productive tillers but can result in plants too short for easy harvest in the northern United States and shorter coleoptiles that reduce dry soil germination. In this study, durum plants varying for Rht alleles created by ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenesis were studied to determine the impact of each allele upon agronomic and seed traits. The projects’ goal is to increase durum wheat yield through the development of a plant with height intermediate between current full‐height and semidwarf varieties. Experiments included field trials, coleoptile length and gibberellic acid (GA) responsiveness assays, and an in vitro test to determine the impact of each Rht mutation upon binding to Gibberellin Insensitive Dwarf1 (GID1). It was found that the Rht‐B1b‐E529K allele conferred plant height and coleoptile length intermediate between Rht‐B1b and Rht‐B1a containing plants, while two Rht‐A1 alleles had lesser impacts with trends toward intermediate‐height plants. The results of this research demonstrate that hypomorphic Rht alleles that alter Rht binding to GID1 may prove useful in optimizing durum wheat height to increase yield across different growing conditions.
Analytical framework for the performance of energy detectors over α‐μ fading model with MRC diversity
Authors: Singh Pateshwari , Soni S. K.
Published: November 2021

The advancements towards the 5G technology are significantly reliant on the effective utilization of the radio spectrum. The scarcity of the spectrum is a barrier to the employment of emergent wireless multimedia. The cognitive radio (CR) technology has materialized as a reassuring remedy to the present problem of spectral scarcity. This study explores the statistical characterization of energy detector‐based cognitive radio device alongside diversity reception. The analysis is carried out with the postulation that the transmitting signal encounters fading, characterized by α‐μ fading channel. Initially, we present a PDF expression of the α‐μ fading model when subjected to maximal ratio combining (MRC) diversity reception. Utilizing this expression, the closed‐form expression of the average probability of detection (Pd) and the average area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) are derived in the terms of Fox's H function. The detection threshold has been optimized to improve the detection performance by curtailing the probability of error. Additionally, asymptotic results for Pd with various diversity combining cases are also obtained under high signal‐to‐noise‐ratio (SNR) regime. Furthermore, the result of Pd is applied to explore the execution of cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) with diversity reception. The accuracy and validation of the presented results are assured by comparison with the Monte Carlo simulation.
Interferon regulatory factor‐7 is required for hair cell development during zebrafish embryogenesis
Authors: Hu Song‐Qun , Xu Hui‐Min , Qian Fu‐Ping , Chen Chang‐Sheng , Wang Xin , Liu Dong , Cheng Lei
Published: November 2021

Interferon regulatory factor‐7 (IRF7) is an essential regulator of both innate and adaptive immunity. It is also expressed in the otic vesicle of zebrafish embryos. However, any role for irf7 in hair cell development was uncharacterized. Does it work as a potential deaf gene to regulate hair cell development? We used whole‐mount in situ hybridization (WISH) assay and morpholino‐mediated gene knockdown method to investigate the role of irf7 in the development of otic vesicle hair cells during zebrafish embryogenesis. We performed RNA sequencing to gain a detailed insight into the molecules/genes which are altered upon downregulation of irf7. Compared to the wild‐type siblings, knockdown of irf7 resulted in severe developmental retardation in zebrafish embryos as well as loss of neuromasts and damage to hair cells at an early stage (within 3 days post fertilization). Coinjection of zebrafish irf7 mRNA could partially rescued the defects of the morphants. atp1b2b mRNA injection can also partially rescue the phenotype induced by irf7 gene deficiency. Loss of hair cells in irf7‐morphants does not result from cell apoptosis. Gene expression profiles show that, compared to wild‐type, knockdown of irf7 can lead to 2053 and 2678 genes being upregulated and downregulated, respectively. Among them, 18 genes were annotated to hair cell (HC) development or posterior lateral line (PLL) development. All results suggest that irf7 plays an essential role in hair cell development in zebrafish, indicating that irf7 may be a member of deafness gene family.
popharvest: An R package to assess the sustainability of harvesting regimes of bird populations
Authors: Eraud Cyril , Devaux Tiphaine , Villers Alexandre , Johnson Fred A. , Francesiaz Charlotte
Published: November 2021

Bird harvest for recreational purposes or as a source for food is an important activity worldwide. Assessing or mitigating the impact of these additional sources of mortality on bird populations is therefore crucial issue. The sustainability of harvest levels is however rarely documented, because knowledge of their population dynamics remains rudimentary for many bird species. Some helpful approaches using limited demographic data can be used to provide initial assessment of the sustainable use of harvested bird populations, and help adjusting harvest levels accordingly. The Demographic Invariant Method (DIM) is used to detect overharvesting. In complement, the Potential Take Level (PTL) approach may allow setting a level of take with regard to management objectives and/or to assess whether current harvest levels meet these objectives. Here, we present the R package popharvest that implements these two approaches in a simple and straightforward way. The package provides users with a set of flexible functions whose arguments can be adapted to existing knowledge about population dynamics. Also, popharvest enables users to test scenarios or propagate uncertainty in demographic parameters to the assessment of sustainability through easily programming Monte Carlo simulations. The simplicity of the package makes it a useful toolbox for wildlife managers or policymakers. This paper provides them with backgrounds about the DIM and PTL approaches and illustrates the use of popharvest's functionalities in this context.
Asymptomatic COVID‐19 and ST‐elevation myocardial infarction in young adults: lessons learned from two similar cases
Authors: Sisakian Hamayak , Martirosyan Seda , Shekoyan Seda , Terteryan Aram , Hovhannisyan Mariam
Published: November 2021

We present two cases of acute myocardial infarction in young patients with asymptomatic COVID‐19 infection and ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), complicated by severe acute heart failure and ventricular fibrillation, resulting cardiopulmonary resuscitation and mechanical ventilatory support. Urgent primary percutaneous coronary intervention with further complex treatment was effective in both cases with critical cardiovascular state and co‐morbid COVID‐19 infection. This report illustrates the challenges in clinical severity of STEMI with COVID‐19 infection, despite of young age and absence of clinical symptoms and chronic co‐morbidities. STEMI patients with even asymptomatic COVID‐19 infection may be presented with significantly higher rates of severe acute heart failure.
The Lithium Iodostannate LiSn3I7: Synthesis, Properties and its Relationship to SnI2
Authors: Löber Manuel , Ströbele Markus , Eichele Klaus , Romao Carl P. , Meyer Hans‐Jürgen
Published: November 2021

The mixed lithium tin iodide LiSn3I7 was prepared by reacting LiI and SnI2 at 300 °C. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction revealed a crystal structure related to that of SnI2, with nearly identical coordination environments of tin atoms. The lithium ion in the structure of LiSn3I7 shares one crystallographic position with a tin atom in octahedral voids of (LiSn)Sn2I7, as confirmed by solid‐state 7Li, 119Sn and 127I MAS NMR spectra. DFT band structure calculations show LiSn3I7 to be a semiconductor with an indirect bandgap on the order of 2 eV.
Waste‐free oxidation of alcohols at the surface of catalytic electrodes: What is required for industrial uptake?
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Ghahremani Mina , Karimi Babak , Pagliaro Mario
Published: November 2021

The electrocatalytic oxidation of alcohols at the surface of stable catalytic electrodes functionalized with aminoxyl radicals results in a waste‐free process affording highly valued carbonyl or carboxylic compounds using an electric current only. Hydrogen is the only by‐product of the reaction, no hazardous chemical oxidants are used throughout the process, whereas the separation of the valued reaction product from cytotoxic and genotoxic TEMPO‐like radicals is no longer required. We provide a critical insight on the economic, technological, and educational issues that, in our viewpoint, will drive the uptake of this eminently green and highly effective synthetic organic chemistry technology in the fine chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Improvement of glycine biosynthesis from one‐carbon compounds and ammonia catalyzed by the glycine cleavage system in vitro
Authors: Xu Yingying , Ren Jie , Wang Wei , Zeng An‐Ping
Published: November 2021

Glycine cleavage system (GCS) plays a central role in one‐carbon (C1) metabolism and receives increasing interest as a core part of the recently proposed reductive glycine pathway (rGlyP) for assimilation of CO2 and formate. Despite decades of research, GCS has not yet been well understood and kinetic data are barely available. This is to a large degree because of the complexity of GCS, which is composed of four proteins (H, T, P, and L) and catalyzes reactions involving different substrates and cofactors. In vitro kinetics of reconstructed microbial multi‐enzyme glycine cleavage/synthase system is desired to better implement rGlyP in microorganisms like Escherichia coli for the use of C1 resources. Here, we examined in vitro several factors that may affect the rate of glycine synthesis via the reverse GCS reaction. We found that the ratio of GCS component proteins has a direct influence on the rate of glycine synthesis, namely higher ratios of P protein and especially H protein to T and L proteins are favorable, and the carboxylation reaction catalyzed by P protein is a key step determining the glycine synthesis rate, whereas increasing the ratio of L protein to other GCS proteins does not have significant effect and the ratio of T protein to other GCS proteins should be kept low. The effect of substrate concentrations on glycine synthesis is quite complex, showing interdependence with the ratios of GCS component proteins. Furthermore, adding the reducing agent dithiothreitol to the reaction mixture not only results in great tolerance to high concentration of formaldehyde, but also increases the rate of glycine synthesis, probably due to its functions in activating P protein and taking up the role of L protein in the non‐enzymatic reduction of Hox to Hred. Moreover, the presence of some monovalent and divalent metal ions can have either positive or negative effect on the rate of glycine synthesis, depending on their type and their concentration.
The human–grass–fire cycle: how people and invasives co‐occur to drive fire regimes
Authors: Fusco Emily J , Balch Jennifer K , Mahood Adam L , Nagy R Chelsea , Syphard Alexandra D , Bradley Bethany A
Published: November 2021

Invasive grass species can alter fire regimes, converting native terrestrial ecosystems into non‐native, grass‐dominated landscapes, creating a self‐reinforcing cycle of increasing fire activity and flammable grass expansion. Analyses of this phenomenon tend to focus on the ecology and geography of the grass–fire cycle independent of human activities. Yet people introduce non‐native grasses to new landscapes (eg via agriculture), facilitate their spread (eg via road networks), and are a primary source of ignition (eg via debris burning). We propose a new framework for this phenomenon that explicitly recognizes the important role of anthropogenic activities in the human–grass–fire cycle. We review links between land use and invasive species as well as ignitions, with a particular focus on the spatial and temporal co‐occurrences of these activities to show that these two drivers of wildfires are inextricable. Finally, management strategies that could mitigate impacts are discussed.
Evaluation of antioxidant and antibacterial interactions between resveratrol and eugenol in carboxymethyl cellulose biodegradable film
Authors: Aminzare Majid , Moniri Roya , Hassanzad Azar Hassan , Mehrasbi Mohammad Reza
Published: November 2021

The aim of present study was to compare the in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial properties of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) films containing resveratrol (RES) and eugenol (EUG), alone and in combination, and to calculate the dose interactions between them. At first, the total phenolic content of CMC films was evaluated. Then, their antioxidant and antibacterial effects of films were determined using DPPH, reducing power, disk diffusion, and broth dilution methods. Finally, concentrations of RES and EUG which showed better results in the CMC films were added in combination forms to calculate their antioxidant and antibacterial interactions. The results showed that addition of RES and/or EUG to CMC films increased the total phenolic content, free radicals scavenging activity, reducing power, and antibacterial activities of the films (p ≤ .05). Gram‐positive bacteria were more susceptible than Gram‐negatives. In addition, the combined use of RES and EUG in CMC films had synergistic antioxidant and antagonistic antibacterial effects. The best results belonged to the film containing RES (8 µg/ml) + EUG (8 mg/ml) (p ≤ .05). Considering the results of the present research, we can utilize CMC biodegradable film containing RES and EUG as a natural active packaging in food industry.
A site formation model for Cuncaicha rock shelter: Depositional and postdepositional processes at the high‐altitude keysite in the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Meinekat Sarah Ann , Miller Christopher E. , Rademaker Kurt
Published: November 2021

We report results from geoarchaeological investigations at Cuncaicha rock shelter (4480 m above sea level) in the high Andes of southern Peru. Using field observations, geomorphological, micromorphological, micro‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Bayesian modeling of radiocarbon ages, and archaeological data, we analyzed the entire stratigraphic sequence to determine depositional and postdepositional processes and agents to assess the impact of bioturbation and to correlate the deposits with regional paleoenvironmental information. The archaeological record is represented well on a microscale, and bioturbation has not destroyed the stratigraphic integrity. The Terminal Pleistocene sediments that contain the oldest archaeological material at the site, dating to ~12.3–11.1 ka, are especially well preserved and capped by a layer of tufa. Depositional changes from autochthonous carbonate precipitation during the Terminal Pleistocene toward allochthonous aeolian sedimentation in the Early Holocene reflect changing environmental and climatic conditions. Formation of a soil during the Late‐Middle Holocene caused postdepositional alterations and likely correlates to variable environmental conditions. We use these results to formulate a site formation model for Cuncaicha rock shelter that integrates archaeological, chronological, and paleoenvironmental data.
A large‐scale transcriptome‐wide association study (TWAS) of 10 blood cell phenotypes reveals complexities of TWAS fine‐mapping
Authors: Tapia Amanda L. , Rowland Bryce T. , Rosen Jonathan D. , Preuss Michael , Young Kris , Graff Misa , Choquet Hélène , Couper David J. , Buyske Steve , Bien Stephanie A. , Jorgenson Eric , Kooperberg Charles , Loos Ruth J. F. , Morrison Alanna C. , North Kari E. , Yu Bing , Reiner Alexander P. , Li Yun , Raffield Laura M.
Published: November 2021

Hematological measures are important intermediate clinical phenotypes for many acute and chronic diseases and are highly heritable. Although genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have identified thousands of loci containing trait‐associated variants, the causal genes underlying these associations are often uncertain. To better understand the underlying genetic regulatory mechanisms, we performed a transcriptome‐wide association study (TWAS) to systematically investigate the association between genetically predicted gene expression and hematological measures in 54,542 Europeans from the Genetic Epidemiology Research on Aging cohort. We found 239 significant gene‐trait associations with hematological measures; we replicated 71 associations at p < 0.05 in a TWAS meta‐analysis consisting of up to 35,900 Europeans from the Women's Health Initiative, Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study, and BioMe Biobank. Additionally, we attempted to refine this list of candidate genes by performing conditional analyses, adjusting for individual variants previously associated with hematological measures, and performed further fine‐mapping of TWAS loci. To facilitate interpretation of our findings, we designed an R Shiny application to interactively visualize our TWAS results by integrating them with additional genetic data sources (GWAS, TWAS from multiple reference panels, conditional analyses, known GWAS variants, etc.). Our results and application highlight frequently overlooked TWAS challenges and illustrate the complexity of TWAS fine‐mapping.
HBV covalently closed circular DNA minichromosomes in distinct epigenetic transcriptional states differ in their vulnerability to damage
Authors: Wang Yang , Li Yumeng , Zai Wenjing , Hu Kongying , Zhu Yuanfei , Deng Qiang , Wu Min , Li Yaming , Chen Jieliang , Yuan Zhenghong
Published: November 2021

Background and Aims

HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is a major obstacle for a cure of chronic hepatitis B. Accumulating evidence suggests that epigenetic modifications regulate the transcriptional activity of cccDNA minichromosomes. However, it remains unclear how the epigenetic state of cccDNA affects its stability.

Approaches and Results

By using HBV infection cell models and in vitro and in vivo recombinant cccDNA (rcccDNA) and HBVcircle models, the reduction rate of HBV cccDNA and the efficacy of apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme catalytic subunit 3A (APOBEC3A)–mediated and CRISPR/CRISPR‐associated 9 (Cas9)–mediated cccDNA targeting were compared between cccDNAs with distinct transcriptional activities. Interferon‐α treatment and hepatitis B x protein (HBx) deletion were applied as two strategies for cccDNA repression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and micrococcal nuclease assays were performed to determine the epigenetic pattern of cccDNA. HBV cccDNA levels remained stable in nondividing hepatocytes; however, they were significantly reduced during cell division, and the reduction rate was similar between cccDNAs in transcriptionally active and transcriptionally repressed states. Strikingly, HBV rcccDNA without HBx expression exhibited a significantly longer persistence in mice. The cccDNA with low transcriptional activity exhibited an epigenetically inactive pattern and was more difficult to access by APOBEC3A and engineered CRISPR‐Cas9. The epigenetic regulator activating cccDNA increased its vulnerability to APOBEC3A.

Conclusions

HBV cccDNA minichromosomes in distinct epigenetic transcriptional states showed a similar reduction rate during cell division but significantly differed in their accessibility and vulnerability to targeted nucleases and antiviral agents. Epigenetic sensitization of cccDNA makes it more susceptible to damage and may potentially contribute to an HBV cure.
The Journey of Ni(I) Chemistry
Authors: Bismuto Alessandro , Finkelstein Patrick , Müller Patrick , Morandi Bill
Published: November 2021

In the last twenty years, nickel has successfully imprinted its role in the field of homogeneous catalysis as a valid and complementary alternative to palladium and platinum catalysts. However, compared to those, there are often many different available pathways in nickel catalysis due to the facile access of intermediate oxidation states. Among them, Ni(I) has been increasingly proposed as a key oxidation state in multiple transformations. This oxidation state had already been suggested a long time ago but has only recently undergone a renaissance with extensive ligand design which has led to over 100 isolated Ni(I) complexes. In addition, the analysis of many catalytic cycles has revealed that the Ni(I) species can not only occur as a decomposition product perturbing a Ni(0)–Ni(II) pathway but can also play a key role in alternative Ni(I)–Ni(III) cycles. This behavior is highly dependent on the class of transformation and ligand employed in catalysis. Herein, we concisely describe the journey of this oxidation state, combining the information gathered from inorganic synthesis and mechanistic investigations, from its synthesis to its postulated role in different catalytic cycles.
Variability in the levels of exosomal miRNAs among human subjects could be explained by differential interactions of exosomes with the endothelium
Authors: Felekkis Kyriacos , Pieri Myrtani , Papaneophytou Christos
Published: November 2021

Exosomes are 30–100 nm endosome‐derived membrane vesicles, that contain specific RNA transcripts including mRNAs, and microRNAs (miRNAs) and have been implicated in cell‐to‐cell communication. Exosomal miRNAs in blood circulation have been attracting major interest as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in a variety of diseases including stroke, cancer, and inflammatory disorders. Despite the progress made in the utilization of circulating exosomal miRNAs as biomarkers for various human diseases and conditions, there are still difficulties in functionally utilizing such methods in the clinic due to the high variability observed among subjects. Attempts to use miRNA signatures have improved but have not eliminated the problem. Additionally, standardized laboratory practices may partially reduce variability but there is still an unknown biological factor that hinders the proper use of miRNAs as biomarkers. We hypothesize that this variability might be partially attributed to a differential interaction among circulating exosomes carrying those miRNAs with endothelial surface molecules that themselves may vary among individuals due to secondary conditions, for example, inflammation status. This differential interaction could potentially add variability to the level of the examined miRNA that is not directly attributed to the primary condition under study.
A southwestern grassroots community coalition of undocumented Mexican community members: A location for bridging resources and sociopolitical action
Authors: Lardier David T. , Iglesias Ybeth S. , Cantu Irene N. , Ramirez Cinthia M. , Garcia‐Cole Janelle
Published: November 2021

The current nativist and ethnocentric policies and rhetoric put forward in the United States have compromised the safety of undocumented Hispanic/Latinx Americans. Many in these communities abstain from overt action toward change. Nonetheless, there are examples of community members who embrace the narrative “undocumented and unafraid.” Through in‐depth individual interviews and focus groups, we qualitatively examined how undocumented Mexican community coalition members (N = 10), focused on enacting socio‐political change on behalf of their predominantly Mexican southwestern community, understood the role of their group as a venue for bridging resources and social action. Findings centered on three specific broad themes: (1) Meeting Community Needs: A Disconnection from Resources; (2) Community Coalition as a Space for Bridging Resources; and (3) Community Coalition as a Space for Activism and Social Change.
Dental faculty well‐being amid COVID‐19 in fall 2020: A multi‐site measure of burnout, loneliness, and resilience
Authors: Smith Carlos S. , Kennedy Erinne , Quick Karin , Carrico Caroline K. , Saeed Sophia
Published: November 2021

Purpose/objectives

This study aimed to understand the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on dental school faculty's self‐reported burnout, loneliness, and resilience.

Methods

A 34‐item questionnaire composed of three previously validated scales – adapted Copenhagen Burnout Inventory, the brief resilience scale, and a short loneliness scale – and demographic information was sent by email to dental school faculty in four dental schools across the US during the sixth and seventh months of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

Two‐hundred sixteen (19.63%) of faculty invited to participate completed the survey. On a scale of five, with five indicating extreme burnout and one indicating no burnout, the average personal burnout was 2.7 (SD = 0.83), and work‐related burnout (WRB) was 2.8 (SD = 0.83). Personal and WRB decreased with increasing age. WRB was significantly higher among full‐time faculty, females, and those living alone. Faculty who lived alone experienced more loneliness than those who lived with others. Resilience was not a statistically significant difference across demographic groups. Regarding the impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on their burnout, loneliness, and resilience on a scale ranging from “Never” (scored as 1) to “A great deal” (scored as 5), the average response for burnout was 3.3 (SD = 1.01), loneliness was 2.6 (SD = 1.10), and resilience was 2.8 (SD = 0.99).

Conclusion(s)

While self‐reported burnout and resilience scores did not show a significant increase during the pandemic, the rates of burnout and loneliness remain higher than the public. Dental education has real challenges and opportunities to explore individual and organizational interventions to combat burnout and loneliness and enhance resilience among faculty.