bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PyDamage: automated ancient damage identification and estimation for contigs in ancient DNA de novo assembly
Authors: Borry Maxime , Hübner Alexander , Rohrlach Adam B. , Warinner Christina
Published: July 2021

DNA de novo assembly can be used to reconstruct longer stretches of DNA (contigs), including genes and even genomes, from short DNA sequencing reads. Applying this technique to metagenomic data derived from archaeological remains, such as paleofeces and dental calculus, we can investigate past microbiome functional diversity that may be absent or underrepresented in the modern microbiome gene catalogue. However, compared to modern samples, ancient samples are often burdened with environmental contamination, resulting in metagenomic datasets that represent mixtures of ancient and modern DNA. The ability to rapidly and reliably establish the authenticity and integrity of ancient samples is essential for ancient DNA studies, and the ability to distinguish between ancient and modern sequences is particularly important for ancient microbiome studies. Characteristic patterns of ancient DNA damage, namely DNA fragmentation and cytosine deamination (observed as C-to-T transitions) are typically used to authenticate ancient samples and sequences, but existing tools for inspecting and filtering aDNA damage either compute it at the read level, which leads to high data loss and lower quality when used in combination with de novo assembly, or require manual inspection, which is impractical for ancient assemblies that typically contain tens to hundreds of thousands of contigs. To address these challenges, we designed PyDamage, a robust, automated approach for aDNA damage estimation and authentication of de novo assembled aDNA. PyDamage uses a likelihood ratio based approach to discriminate between truly ancient contigs and contigs originating from modern contamination. We test PyDamage on both on simulated aDNA data and archaeological paleofeces, and we demonstrate its ability to reliably and automatically identify contigs bearing DNA damage characteristic of aDNA. Coupled with aDNA de novo assembly, Pydamage opens up new doors to explore functional diversity in ancient metagenomic datasets.
Impact of four kVp combinations available in a dual‐source CT on the spectral performance of abdominal imaging: A task‐based image quality assessment on phantom data
Authors: Greffier Joël , Frandon Julien , Sadate Alexandre , Akessoul Philippe , Belaouni Asmaa , Beregi Jean‐Paul , Dabli Djamel
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To compare the spectral performance of four combinations of kVp available in a third generation dual‐source CT (DSCT) on abdominal imaging.

Methods

An image‐quality phantom was scanned with a DSCT using four kVp pairs (tube “A” voltage/tube “B” voltage): 100/Sn150 kVp, 90/Sn150 kVp, 80/Sn150 kVp, and 70/Sn150 kVp, classic parameters and dose level for abdomen examination (CTDIvol: 11 mGy). The noise power spectrum (NPS) and the task‐based transfer function (TTF) of two inserts were computed on virtual monochromatic images (VMIs) at 40/50/60/70 keV and for mixed, low‐, and high‐kVp images. Detectability index (d’) was computed on VMIs and mixed images to model the detection task of liver metastasis (LM) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Iodine quantification accuracy was assessed using the Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSDiodine) and the iodine bias (IB).

Results

Noise magnitude decreased by −55%± 0% between 40 and 70 keV for all kVp pairs. Compared to 70/Sn150 kVp, noise magnitude was increased by 9% ± 0% with 80/Sn150 kVp, by 16% ± 1% with 90/Sn150 kVp and by 24%± 1% with 100/Sn150 kVp. The average NPS spatial frequency (fav) shifted toward higher frequencies as energy level increased for all kVp pairs. Lowest fav values were found for 70/Sn150 kVp and highest for 100/Sn150 kVp. The value of TTF at 50% (f50) shifted toward lower frequencies with increasing energy level. The highest f50 values occurred for 100/Sn150 kVp and the lowest for 80/Sn150 kVp. For both lesions, d’ was highest for 70/Sn150 kVp and lowest for 100/Sn150 kVp. Compared to 70/Sn150 kVp, d’ decreased by −6% ± 3% with 80/Sn150 kVp, by −11% ± 2% with 90/Sn150 kVp and by −13%± 2% with 100/Sn150 kVp. For all acquisitions, the RSMDiodine and IB were the lowest for 100/Sn150 kVp (0.29 ± 0.10 mg/ml and 0.88 ± 0.30 mg/ml, respectively) and increased when the tube “A” voltage decreased (2.34 ± 0.29 mg/ml for 70/Sn150 kVp and 7.42 ± 0.51 mg/ml respectively).

Conclusion

70/Sn150 kVp presented the lowest image noise and highest detectability in VMIs of two small focal liver lesions. 100/Sn150 kVp presented the lowest image noise on mixed images and highest accuracy of iodine quantification in iodine images.
Lightweight Low‐Frequency Sound‐Absorbing Composites of Graphene Network Reinforced by Honeycomb Structure
Authors: Xu Fan , Zhang Siying , Wang Guigen , Zhao Daqiang , Feng Junwei , Wang Baolin , He Xiaodong
Published: July 2021

Efficient, facile, lightweight, and low‐frequency sound‐absorbing materials are in great demand for noise elimination and insulation. However, the applications of some candidate materials are limited by their large space, mass, or unsatisfactory sound‐absorption performance especially in low‐frequency sound‐wave region. Graphene network structure can be promising sound‐absorbing materials due to ultrahigh porosity, ultralight weight, and excellent intrinsic properties. Conventionally, allowing for poor mechanical strength, such graphene materials are needed to be reinforced by polymer, metal, or ceramic. Here, a novel strategy of graphene network reinforced by honeycomb structure is proposed, in which graphene is used as a sound absorber, and meanwhile flexible aramid honeycomb is introduced to enhance the graphene composite. In this work, the compressive strength of graphene network structure is improved 1000 times by the flexible aramid honeycomb, and meanwhile the density is only increased 2.5 times. Moreover, the sound‐absorption coefficient of graphene network is about 0.9 at 700 Hz for the thickness of 30 mm. Further, the sound‐absorption coefficient is above 0.9 in the frequency range of >1000 Hz. Therefore, the graphene composite is expected to be saving space and weight for the engineering design of sound absorbers in low‐frequency regions.
{BiW8O30} Exerts Antitumor Effect by Triggering Pyroptosis and Upregulating Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Jia Di , Gong Lige , Li Ying , Cao Shu , Zhao Weiming , Hao Lijun , Li Shasha , Pang Bo , Zhang Chunjing , Li Shuyan , Zhang Wei , Chen Tianyi , Dong Limin , Zhou Baibin , Yang Dan
Published: July 2021

We successfully synthesized {BiW8}, a 10‐nuclear heteroatom cluster modified {BiW8O30}. At 24 h post‐incubation, the IC50 values of {BiW8} against HUVEC, MG63, RD, Hep3B, HepG2, and MCF7 cells were 895.8, 127.3, 344.3, 455.0, 781.3, and 206.3 μM, respectively. The IC50 value of {BiW8} on the MG63 cells was more than 2‐fold lower than that of the other raw materials. Through morphological and functional features, we demonstrated pyroptosis as a newly identified mechanism of cell death induced by {BiW8}. {BiW8} increased 2‐fold reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in MG63 cells at 24 h post‐incubation. Compared with 0 h, the glutathione (GSH) content decreased by 59, 65, 75, 94, and 97 % at 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 h post‐incubation, respectively. Furthermore, multiple antitumor mechanisms of {BiW8} were identified via transcriptome analysis and chemical simulation, including activation of pyroptosis, suppression of GSH generation, depletion of GSH, and inhibition of DNA repair.
Asymmetric Total Synthesis of (+)‐Mannolide C
Authors: Ao Qiaoqiao , Zhang Hai‐Jun , Zheng Jinbin , Chen Xiaoming , Zhai Hongbin
Published: July 2021

(+)‐Mannolide C is a complex hexacyclic C20 cephalotane‐type diterpenoid featuring a highly strained 7/6/6/5 tetracyclic core containing eight consecutive stereocenters and two bridging lactones. The first asymmetric total synthesis of (+)‐mannolide C has been accomplished by lipase‐mediated resolution, Ru‐complex‐catalyzed double ring‐closing metathesis (RCM) reactions, NiII‐catalyzed diastereoselective Michael addition, and MnIII‐catalyzed allylic oxidation as the key transformations.
Clinical Issues—August 2021
Authors: Cahn Julie
Published: July 2021

THIS MONTH

Using antiseptic solutions in surgical wound irrigation

Key words: antiseptic solution, povidone‐iodine, wound irrigation, toxicity.

Use of powered air‐purifying respirators in the OR

Key words: respiratory protection, powered air‐purifying respirator (PAPR), surgical N95 respirator, unfiltered exhaled air, sterile field contamination.

Surgical wound classification of cesarean delivery procedures

Key words: surgical wound classification, cesarean delivery, devitalized or infected tissue, contamination.

Management and documentation of foam dressings used in open wounds

Key words: retained surgical items, therapeutic packing, foam dressings, negative‐pressure wound‐therapy device.

Gastric lavage during a malignant hyperthermia crisis

Key words: malignant hyperthermia, gastric lavage, patient cooling methods, thermal management, perfusion.
The effects of ionic strength and pH on antibacterial activity of hybrid biosurfactant‐biopolymer nanoparticles
Authors: Marangon Crisiane A. , Vigilato Rodrigues Murilo Á. , Vicente Bertolo Mirella R. , Amaro Martins Virginia da C. , de Guzzi Plepis Ana Maria , Nitschke Marcia
Published: July 2021

The physicochemical properties of nanoparticles (NPs) directly influence the colloidal stability and bio‐nano interface, which makes the study of these factors extremely important for NPs applicability. Here, we report the influence of pH and ionic strength in the size, surface charge, and antimicrobial activity of chitosan/rhamnolipid nanoparticles (C/RL‐NPs), synthesized by mixing C and RL in the proportion of 1:1, with the dropwise addition of TPP (sodium tripolyphosphate) in the molar ratio of 1:2.5:1.3, respectively. The obtained NPs were resuspended in different solvents to investigate the ionic strength effect on their stability and antimicrobial activity. By decreasing pH and ionic strength, NPs size was reduced while their surface charge increased. Chitosan nanoparticles (C‐NPs) remained stable in the presence of TPP at acidic pH and low ionic strength, indicating that the modulation of physicochemical conditions for the crosslinking between the two ionic components was an efficient approach to enhance C/RL‐NPs colloidal stability. Thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the interaction between rhamnolipid and chitosan in C/RL‐NPs. The antibacterial activity of C/RL‐NPs against Staphylococcus aureus increased significantly, demonstrating the importance of investigating size and surface charge to dictate the bioactivity properties of such hybrid natural‐based nanomaterial.
Cellulose nanocrystal‐mediated assembly of graphene oxide in natural rubber nanocomposites with high electrical conductivity
Authors: Zhu Ge , Giraldo Isaza Laura , Dufresne Alain
Published: July 2021

This study reports a green and powerful strategy for preparing cellulose nanocrystal (CNC)/graphene oxide (GO)/natural rubber (NR) nanocomposites hosting a 3D hierarchical conductive network. Due to good dispersibility and amphiphilic nature of CNC, well dispersed CNC/GO nanohybrids were prepared. Hydrogen bonding interactions between CNC and GO greatly enhanced the stability of the CNC/GO nanohybrids. CNC/GO nanohybrids were introduced into NR latex under sonication and the mixture was cast. Self‐assembled CNC/GO nanohybrids preferentially dispersed in the interstice between latex microspheres allowing the construction of a 3D hierarchical conductive network. By combining strong hydrogen bonds and 3D conductive network, both electrical conductivity and mechanical properties (tensile strength and modulus) have been significantly improved. The electrical conductivity of the nanocomposite with 4 wt% GO and 5 wt% CNC exhibited an increase of nine orders of magnitude compared to the nanocomposite with only 4 wt% GO; meanwhile, the electrical percolation threshold was 3‐fold lower than for NR/GO composites.
Selective Oxidation of Arabinose on Gold Catalysts: Process Design and Techno‐economic Assessment
Authors: Hachhach Mouad , Sladkovskiy Dmitry A. , Salmi Tapio , Murzin Dmitry Y.
Published: July 2021

The present work focuses on process design and techno‐economic assessment of the oxidation of a pentose sugar present in hemicelluloses, i.e., arabinose, on a supported gold catalyst. The processing plant was designed with Aspen Plus. The arabinose feedstock price has an important impact on the operational performance contributing to almost half of these costs. The feasibility of the overall arabinose oxidation process requires efficient extraction of hemicellulose from the lignocellulosic biomass lowering the feedstock costs.
Transcriptional profiling of paediatric ependymomas identifies prognostically significant groups
Authors: Łastowska Maria , Matyja Ewa , Sobocińska Anna , Wojtaś Bartosz , Niemira Magdalena , Szałkowska Anna , Krętowski Adam , Karkucińska‐Więckowska Agnieszka , Kaleta Magdalena , Ejmont Maria , Tarasińska Magdalena , Perek‐Polnik Marta , Dembowska‐Bagińska Bożenna , Pronicki Maciej , Grajkowska Wiesława , Trubicka Joanna
Published: July 2021

The majority of supratentorial ependymomas in children contain oncogenic fusions, such as ZFTA–RELA or YAP1‐MAMLD1. In contrast, posterior fossa (PF) ependymomas lack recurrent somatic mutations and are classified based on gene expression or methylation profiling into group A (PFA) and group B (PFB). We have applied a novel method, NanoString nCounter Technology, to identify four molecular groups among 16 supratentorial and 50 PF paediatric ependymomas, using 4–5 group‐specific signature genes. Clustering analysis of 16 supratentorial ependymomas revealed 9 tumours with a RELA fusion‐positive signature (RELA+), 1 tumour with a YAP1 fusion‐positive signature (YAP1+), and 6 not‐classified tumours. Additionally, we identified one RELA+ tumour among historically diagnosed CNS primitive neuroectodermal tumour samples. Overall, 9 of 10 tumours with the RELA+ signature possessed the ZFTA‐RELA fusion as detected by next‐generation sequencing (p = 0.005). Similarly, the only tumour with a YAP1+ signature exhibited the YAP1‐MAMLD1 fusion. Among the remaining unclassified ependymomas, which did not exhibit the ZFTA‐RELA fusion, the ZFTA‐MAML2 fusion was detected in one case. Notably, among nine ependymoma patients with the RELA+ signature, eight survived at least 5 years after diagnosis. Clustering analysis of PF tumours revealed 42 samples with PFA signatures and 7 samples with PFB signatures. Clinical characteristics of patients with PFA and PFB ependymomas corroborated the previous findings. In conclusion, we confirm here that the NanoString method is a useful single tool for the diagnosis of all four main molecular groups of ependymoma. The differences in reported survival rates warrant further clinical investigation of patients with the ZFTA‐RELA fusion.
Comparison of uninterrupted direct oral anticoagulation with vitamin‐K antagonists during AF‐ablation in the clinical routine. A single center register
Authors: Christoph Marian , Youssef Akram , Svitil Jan , Forkmann Mathias , Huo Yan , Gaspar Thomas , Francke Alexander , Schoen Steffen , Quick Silvio , Wunderlich Carsten
Published: July 2021

Background

Uninterrupted direct oral anticoagulation (DOAC) in AF‐ablation is recommended, proven by randomized trials. The outcome and the periinterventional differences between DOACs and VKA in the real world clinical practice are discussed controversial.

Hypothesis

To investigate efficiency and safety of uninterrupted DOAC therapy compared to VKA during AF‐Ablation in real world setting with a focus on periinterventional heparin dosage.
General health condition of patients hospitalized after an incident of in‐hospital or out‐of hospital sudden cardiac arrest with return of spontaneous circulation
Authors: Stasiowski Michał , Głowacki Łukasz , Gąsiorek Jakub , Majer Dominika , Niewiadomska Ewa , Król Seweryn , Żak Jakub , Missir Anna , Prof Lech Krawczyk , Prof Przemysław Jałowiecki , Grabarek Beniamin Oskar
Published: July 2021

Background

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the main reasons for admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), which influences discharge in a good neurological state.

Hypothesis

To analyze patients who had recovery of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) during hospitalization in the ICU using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS).

Methods

The study group comprised 78 patients after SCA (35 after out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest [OHCA] and 43 after in‐hospital cardiac arrest [IHCA]) with ROSC who were admitted to the ICU of Regional Hospital No. 5 in Sosnowiec from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016. GOS was used to assess neurological status. Basic anthropological data, with, arterial blood pH, lactate concentration (LAC), and catecholamine treatment were also collected.

Results

In the study group, 32.1% (n = 25/78) of patients survived until ICU discharge and 30.8% (n = 24/78) until discharge from the hospital. SCA in cardiac mechanism was more common in OHCA than in the IHCA group (OHCA vs. IHCA: 85.7% vs. 62.8%, p = .02). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups for neurological status assessed using GOS. There was no statistically significant difference between LAC or arterial blood pH and survival to ICU discharge, survival to hospital discharge, or mortality. The need for using catecholamines increased the mortality rate (GOS 1) (p < .001).

Conclusions

Most patients after RSOC were assigned to a group other than GOS 1, and 25% of all subjects belonged to GOS 4–5. Treatment with catecholamines was more common in patients who do not survive hospital or ICU discharge.
Weight loss does not decrease risk of breast cancer–related arm lymphedema
Authors: Roberts Sacha A. , Gillespie Tessa C. , Shui Amy M. , Brunelle Cheryl L. , Daniell Kayla M. , Locascio Joseph J. , Naoum George E. , Taghian Alphonse G.
Published: July 2021

Background

The goal of this study was to determine the relationship between postoperative weight change and breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL).

Methods

In this cohort study, 1161 women underwent unilateral breast surgery for breast cancer from 2005 to 2020 and were prospectively screened for BCRL. Arm volume measurements were obtained via an optoelectronic perometer preoperatively, postoperatively, and in the follow‐up setting every 6 to 12 months. Mean follow‐up from preoperative baseline was 49.1 months. The main outcome was BCRL, defined as a relative volume change of the ipsilateral arm of ≥10% at least 3 months after surgery.

Results

A total of 92 patients (7.9%) developed BCRL. Net weight loss versus net weight gain from baseline to last follow‐up was not protective against developing BCRL (hazard ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.89‐2.13; P = .152).

Conclusions

Although weight loss may be recommended as part of an individualized lifestyle management program for overall health, weight loss alone may not decrease the risk of developing BCRL.
An assessment model for cloud service security risk based on entropy and support vector machine
Authors: Jiang Rong , Ma Zifei , Yang Juan
Published: July 2021

Cloud services are open, shared, and complex. These characteristics will lead to many security risks and will affect the development of cloud services. Therefore, it is necessary to identify and measure the security risks of cloud services. However, there are still many deficiencies in this area. In light of this, this paper carries out an in‐depth study from the perspective of technical security risk. Firstly, this paper combines the three aspects on cloud service security problems, objectives, and technologies. It attempts to explore the technological solutions to get security risk problems to achieve the expected security goals, and establish the cloud service technology security risk index system. Secondly, because of the strong subjectivity and the deficiency of the data obtained from cloud service providers, this paper establishes a cloud service security risk assessment model based on entropy weight theory and multi‐classification support vector machine. Finally, the experimental results show that the evaluation model is feasible and effective.
Revisiting the Structure of Calcined and Hydrated AlPO‐11 with DFT‐Based Molecular Dynamics Simulations**
Authors: Fischer Michael
Published: July 2021

Published crystal structures of the AEL‐type aluminophosphate AlPO‐11 in its calcined form (space group
) show some peculiar features, such as unusually short Al−O and P−O bonds and near‐linear Al−O−P angles. Although experimental evidence for the presence of dynamic disorder was presented, the nature of the associated distortions remained unresolved. In this study, ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) calculations in the framework of density functional theory (DFT) were employed to study the dynamic behaviour of this zeotype. At 100 K, static local distortions that break the
symmetry are present in the time‐averaged structures computed from the AIMD trajectories. At 300 and 500 K, the time‐averaged structures approach
symmetry. Although shortened Al−O and P−O bonds and near‐linear Al−O−P angles were found in the average structures, an analysis of radial and angular distribution functions confirmed their absence in the instantaneous structures. This deviation is due to a precession‐like motion of some oxygen atoms around the Al−P connection line, which moves their time‐averaged positions closer to this line. In hydrated AlPO‐11, some of the water molecules are coordinated to framework Al atoms, leading to an octahedral coordination of 1/5 of the Al sites. DFT optimisations and AIMD simulations on partially hydrated models delivered evidence for a preferential adsorption at the Al1 site. No dynamic disorder was observed for the hydrated form.
Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors Used Concomitantly with Insulin Secretagogues and the Risk of Serious Hypoglycemia
Authors: Hee Nam Young , Brensinger Colleen M. , Bilker Warren B. , Flory James H. , Leonard Charles E. , Hennessy Sean
Published: July 2021

Serious hypoglycemia is a major adverse event associated with insulin secretagogues. Previous studies have suggested a potential relationship between angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) used with sulfonylureas and serious hypoglycemia, and widely used drug compendia warn of this potential drug‐drug interaction. We investigated the association between serious hypoglycemia and concomitant use of ACEIs in patients receiving insulin secretagogues, using the self‐controlled case series design and Medicaid claims data from 5 US states linked to Medicare claims from 1999–2011. The exposure of interest was active prescription for ACEIs during insulin secretagogue or metformin (negative control object drug) episodes. The outcome was hospital presentation for serious hypoglycemia, identified by discharge diagnosis codes in inpatient and emergency department claims (positive predictive value ~ 78–89%). We calculated confounder‐adjusted rate ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence internals (CIs) of outcome occurrence during ACEI‐exposed vs. ACEI‐unexposed time using conditional Poisson regression. The RRs for ACEIs were not statistically elevated during observation time of glipizide (RR, 1.06; CI, 0.98–1.15), glyburide (RR, 1.05; CI, 0.96–1.15), repaglinide (RR, 1.15; CI, 0.94–1.41), or metformin (RR, 1.02; CI, 0.97–1.06); but was modestly elevated with glimepiride (RR, 1.23; CI, 1.11–1.37) and modestly reduced with nateglinide (RR, 0.73; CI, 0.56–0.96). The overall pattern of results do not suggest that ACEIs used with insulin secretagogues were associated with increased rates of serious hypoglycemia, with the possible exception of glimepiride.
Field quantization in quantum plasmas: Photon and plasmon charge and mass
Authors: Mendonça J.T.
Published: July 2021

We study electromagnetic field quantization in isotropic quantum plasmas, thus connecting two distinct problems of quantum plasma physics. We include plasmons and transverse photon states. We show that field quantization in a plasma is equivalent to that of massive boson fields and discuss the qualitative differences with respect to standard quantization in a vacuum. We consider nonlinear effects and show that photon and plasmon charges can be associated with the ponderomotive force. We also discuss the conservation properties of these affective charges during nonlinear mixing processes. The existence of photon and plasmon charge and mass could be relevant to laboratory experiments and to astrophysics.
Cytomorphologic clues for the diagnosis of fallopian tube prolapse in liquid‐based vault samples with review of the literature
Authors: Gupta Parikshaa , Gupta Nalini , Suri Vanita
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Fallopian tube prolapse (FTP) is a rare complication of hysterectomy. The cytological features of the prolapsed fallopian tube in vault smears have been occasionally described in the literature.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective study conducted to identify and describe the characteristic cytologic features of histopathologically confirmed cases of FTP in SurePath™ liquid‐based preparations. Additionally, the literature documenting cytologic features of the prolapsed fallopian tube in vault smears was also reviewed.

Results

A total of four corresponding vault cytology samples of FTP cases, reported on histopathology, were available. On cytologic examination, these cases demonstrated strips and papillaroid clusters of columnar‐shaped cells with mild nuclear enlargement, round to elongated nuclei, fine chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli, and a moderate amount of wispy cytoplasm. Admixed inflammatory cells were also noted. Some of these cells demonstrated the presence of cilia and terminal bar toward the apical surface, indicative of tubal epithelium. The presence of three‐dimensional papillaroid clusters lined by columnar cells as well as strips of similar cells with cilia and terminal bars at the apical surface and fine nuclear chromatin were the most consistent cytologic features in these cases.

Conclusion

We conclude that a high index of clinical suspicion in post‐hysterectomy cases with knowledge of the characteristic cytologic features can help in suggesting a diagnosis of tubal prolapse in vault samples.
Morphometric study of Kalophrynus palmatissimus at two forest reserves in Malaysia
Authors: Abdul Aziz Muhammad Faris , Mohd. Top @ Mohd. Tah Marina , Shohaimi Shamarina , Ab Ghani Nurul Izza , Fletcher Christine
Published: July 2021

A research study on morphometrics of Kalophrynus palmatissimus (commonly known as Lowland Grainy Frog) at Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve (AHFR), Selangor and Pasoh Forest Reserve (PFR), Negeri Sembilan was carried out from 12 November 2016 to 13 September 2017. The study was to examine data on the morphometric traits of K. palmatissimus at the two forest reserves. 15 morphometric traits of K. palmatissimus that were taken by using vernier calipers. Frog surveys were done by using 15 and 18 nocturnal 400 m transect lines with an interval distance of 20 m at AHFR and PFR, respectively. The GPS coordinates for all frog samples were recorded to ensure the precise geographic location. In addition, five climatic data were recorded. The results showed that most morphometric traits in AHFR (n = 34) and PFR (n = 31) were positively correlated with each other. On the other hand, climatic factor, which was soil pH, had a significant positive influence on most of the morphometric traits (p < .01), except for tympanum diameter and upper eyelid width (p ≥ .05). Meanwhile, the temperature had a significantly negative influence on all morphometric traits (p < .01). General linear model (GLM) analysis showed that snout‐vent length (SVL) influenced most morphometric traits (F ≤ 80.86, p < .01), except for hand length (HAL: F = 0.299, p > .05). Later, it was found that the snout‐vent length of K. palmatissimus at AHFR was slightly larger than at PFR (AHFR: μ = 37.00 mm, SE = 1.16 c.f. PFR: μ = 30.29 mm, SE = 1.07). It showed that there were variations in morphometric traits of K. palmatissimus at AHFR and PFR. From PCA analysis, morphometric traits are grouped into two components for AHFR and PFR, respectively. In AHFR, head length, eye diameter, head width, internarial distance, interorbital distance, forearm length, tibia length, foot length, and thigh length were strongly correlated, while snout length and eye‐nostril distance were strongly correlated. In PFR, eye diameter, head width, internarial distance, interorbital distance, foot length, and thigh length were strongly correlated, though snout length and eye‐nostril distance were strongly correlated, hence, suggested that all morphometric traits grow simultaneously in K. palmatissimus with eye‐nostril distance (EN), and snout length (SL) growing almost simultaneously at AHFR (r = .91) and PFR (r = .97). There is still a lack of available information regarding the distribution and morphometric studies of K. palmatissimus in Malaysia, especially at AHFR and PFR. This study showed 15 different morphometric traits of K. palmatisssimus between AHFR and PFR, with K. palmatissimus at AHFR were found to be slightly larger than at PFR.
Climate influences on female survival in a declining population of southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina)
Authors: Volzke Sophia , McMahon Clive R. , Hindell Mark A. , Burton Harry R. , Wotherspoon Simon J.
Published: July 2021

The Southern Ocean has been disproportionately affected by climate change and is therefore an ideal place to study the influence of changing environmental conditions on ecosystems. Changes in the demography of predator populations are indicators of broader shifts in food web structure, but long‐term data are required to study these effects. Southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) from Macquarie Island have consistently decreased in population size while all other major populations across the Southern Ocean have recently stabilized or are increasing. Two long‐term mark‐recapture studies (1956–1967 and 1993–2009) have monitored this population, which provides an opportunity to investigate demographic performance over a range of climatic conditions. Using a 9‐state matrix population model, we estimated climate influences on female survival by incorporating two major climatic indices into our model: The Southern Annular Mode (SAM) and the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI). Our best model included a 1 year lagged effect of SAM and an unlagged SOI as covariates. A positive relationship with SAM1 (lagged) related the previous year's SAM with juvenile survival, potentially due to changes in local prey availability surrounding Macquarie Island. The unlagged SOI had a negative effect on both juvenile and adult seals, indicating that sea ice dynamics and access to foraging grounds on the East Antarctic continental shelf could explain the different contributions of ENSO events on the survival of females in this population.
Aposematic signaling and seasonal variation in dorsal pelage in a venomous mammal
Authors: Nekaris K. Anne‐Isola , Campera Marco , Watkins Anna R. , Weldon Ariana V. , Hedger Katherine , Morcatty Thais Q.
Published: July 2021

In mammals, colouration patterns are often related to concealment, intraspecific communication, including aposematic signals, and physiological adaptations. Slow lorises (Nycticebus spp.) are arboreal primates native to Southeast Asia that display stark colour contrast, are highly territorial, regularly enter torpor, and are notably one of only seven mammal taxa that possess venom. All slow loris species display a contrasting stripe that runs cranial‐caudally along the median sagittal plane of the dorsum. We examine whether these dorsal markings facilitate background matching, seasonal adaptations, and intraspecific signaling. We analyzed 195 images of the dorsal region of 60 Javan slow loris individuals (Nycticebus javanicus) from Java, Indonesia. We extracted greyscale RGB values from dorsal pelage using ImageJ software and calculated contrast ratios between dorsal stripe and adjacent pelage in eight regions. We assessed through generalized linear mixed models if the contrast ratio varied with sex, age, and seasonality. We also examined whether higher contrast was related to more aggressive behavior or increased terrestrial movement. We found that the dorsal stripe of N. javanicus changed seasonally, being longer and more contrasting in the wet season, during which time lorises significantly increased their ground use. Stripes were most contrasting in younger individuals of dispersal age that were also the most aggressive during capture. The dorsal stripe became less contrasting as a loris aged. A longer stripe when ground use is more frequent can be related to disruptive colouration. A darker anterior region by younger lorises with less fighting experience may allow them to appear larger and fiercer. We provide evidence that the dorsum of a cryptic species can have multimodal signals related to concealment, intraspecific communication, and physiological adaptations.
Cushion plants as critical pioneers and engineers in alpine ecosystems across the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Yi , Sun Jian , Liu Biying , Wang Jinniu , Zeng Tao
Published: July 2021

Cushion plants are widely representative species in the alpine ecosystem due to their vital roles in influencing abiotic and biotic environments, ecological succession processes, and ecosystem engineering. Importantly, cushion plants, such as Androsace L. and Arenaria L., are considered to be critical pioneers of ecosystem health, restoration, and sustainability across the Tibetan Plateau. This is because cushion plants (a) show tenacious vitality and can modify regional climates, substrates, and soil nutrients in extreme environments; (b) facilitate relationships with the surroundings and maintain the diversity of aboveground and belowground communities; and (c) are highly sensitive to environmental changes and thus can indicate grassland ecosystem health and resilience in the context of global change.
A synthesis of land use impacts on stream biodiversity across metrics and scales
Authors: Petsch Danielle K. , Blowes Shane A. , Melo Adriano S. , Chase Jonathan M.
Published: July 2021

While land use intensification is a major driver of biodiversity change in streams, the nature of such changes, and at which scales they occur, have not been synthesized. To synthesize how land use change has altered multiple components of stream biodiversity across scales, we compiled data from 37 studies where comparative data were available for species' total and relative abundances from multiple locations including reference (less impacted) streams to those surrounded by different land use types (urban, forestry, and agriculture). We found that each type of land use reduced multiple components of within‐stream biodiversity across scales, but that urbanization consistently had the strongest effects. However, we found that β‐diversity among streams in modified landscapes did not differ from β‐diversity observed among reference streams, suggesting little evidence for biotic homogenization. Nevertheless, assemblage composition did experience considerable species turnover between reference and modified streams. Our results emphasize that to understand how anthropogenic factors such as land use alter biodiversity, multiple components of biodiversity within and among sites must be simultaneously considered at multiple scales.
Hydrogenation of Calix[4]pyrrole: From the Formation to the Synthesis of Calix[4]pyrrolidine
Authors: Journot Guillaume , Neier Reinhard , Gualandi Andrea
Published: July 2021

Calix[4]pyrroles can be obtained from the efficient preprogrammed condensation between acetone and pyrrole. This reaction forms the attractive macrocycle resembling in its constitution, but not in its oxidation state, to the porphyrin structure, prominently present in the vital “pigments of life”. Calix[2]pyrrolidine[2]pyrrole and calix[4]pyrrolidine, the partially and totally reduced version of the macrocycle, became accessible through the hydrogenation of calix[4]pyrrole, but only under strenuous reaction conditions. The only known hydrogenation, which could give clues for improving the process, was the reduction of the calix[4]furan. To shed light on the process, mixed calix[n]furan[4‐n]pyrroles were prepared, and their hydrogenation was studied. After a laborious optimization process, the best conditions were discovered improving the yield of the hydrogenation process from the level of a formation to the level of a complete conversion. The calix[4]pyrrolidine is now accessible in two high yielding synthetic steps. The efforts to understand and to optimize the factors involved in the hydrogenation process of this perazamacrocycle are here reviewed.
Diffusion tensor imaging brain structural clustering patterns in major depressive disorder
Authors: Xu Dongrong , Xu Guojun , Zhao Zhiyong , Sublette M. Elizabeth , Miller Jeffrey M. , Mann J. John
Published: July 2021

Using magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging data from 45 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and 41 healthy controls (HCs), network indices based on a 246‐region Brainnetcome Atlas were investigated in the two groups, and in the MDD subgroups that were subgrouped based on their duration of the disease. Correlation between the network indices and the duration of illness was also examined. Differences were observed between the MDDS subgroup (short disease duration) and the HC group, but not between the MDD and HC groups. Compared with the HCs, the clustering coefficient (CC) values of MDDS were higher in precentral gyrus, and caudal lingual gyrus; the CC of MDDL subgroup (long disease duration) was higher in postcentral gyrus and dorsal granular insula in the right hemisphere. Network resilience analyses showed that the MDDS group was higher than the HC group, representing relatively more randomized networks in the diseased brains. The correlation analyses showed that the caudal lingual gyrus in the right hemisphere and the rostral lingual gyrus in the left hemisphere were particularly correlated with disease duration. The analyses showed that duration of the illness appears to have an impact on the networking patterns. Networking abnormalities in MDD patients could be blurred or hidden by the heterogeneity of the MDD clinical subgroups. Brain plasticity may introduce a recovery effect to the abnormal network patterns seen in patients with a relative short term of the illness, as the abnormalities may disappear in MDDL.
A computational analysis of dissipation effects on the hydromagnetic convective flow of hybrid nanofluids along a vertical wavy surface
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Saleem , Mustafa Irfan , Ghaffari Abuzar , Usman
Published: July 2021

Hybrid nanofluids (HNFs) are innovative nanofluids produced by adding various types of nanoparticles to the base fluid. A mathematical analysis of flow and heat transfer of hydromagnetic HNF along a vertical wavy texture is performed in this article. The effects of viscous dissipation are also encountered in the present study. The considered HNF was composed of two nanoparticles, copper and titania. The mathematical modeled partial differential equations are transformed into dimensionless nonsimilar forms. The results obtained for the HNF were compared with those for the ‐ and ‐based nanofluid with the help of a well‐known numerical procedure, the Keller‐box scheme. On nonflat (wavy) texture, the Nusselt number is higher as compared with a flat sheet. The Nusselt number is higher for Cu nanoparticles relative to Ti nanoparticles. For increased wavy amplitude and magnetic parameter Mg values, a reduction in the coefficient of skin friction and Nusselt number is expected.
Cross‐border insolvency law in Hong Kong: Recognition of foreign schemes of arrangement
Authors: Godwin Andrew , Qu Charles Zhen
Published: July 2021

Hong Kong has no statutory cross‐border insolvency regime. Hong Kong courts have to resort to common law principles in circumstances where they are requested to recognise foreign insolvency proceedings and grant assistance. The nature and scope of these principles have been the subject of extensive debate in common law jurisdictions. In Re CW Advanced Technologies Ltd [2018] HKCFI 1705, Harris J identified the uncertainties associated with the common law position in Hong Kong. These uncertainties include whether a Hong Kong court may recognise a Singapore moratorium granted to facilitate a scheme of arrangement and, if so, whether the court may grant recognition where Singapore (i.e., the foreign jurisdiction) is not the country of incorporation. Harris J also noted the ‘urgent need to enact a statutory cross‐border insolvency regime’. This article examines the scope of the common law powers in Hong Kong and seeks to clarify the possibility for members within a corporate group located outside Singapore, where the holding company has its centre of main interests in Singapore or is otherwise eligible to use the Singapore scheme regime, to obtain recognition and assistance in Hong Kong.
Functionalized polyanhydride nanoparticles for improved treatment of mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Schlichtmann Benjamin W. , Kalyanaraman Balaraman , Schlichtmann Rainie L. , Panthani Matthew G. , Anantharam Vellareddy , Kanthasamy Anumantha G. , Mallapragada Surya K. , Narasimhan Balaji
Published: July 2021

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease affecting a large proportion of older adults. Exposure to pesticides like rotenone is a leading cause for PD. To reduce disease progression and prolong life expectancy, it is important to target disease mechanisms that contribute to dopaminergic neuronal atrophy, including mitochondrial dysfunction. Achieving targeted mitochondrial delivery is difficult for many therapeutics by themselves, necessitating higher therapeutic doses that could lead to toxicity. To minimize this adverse effect, targeted nano‐carriers such as polyanhydride nanoparticles (NPs) can protect therapeutics from degradation and provide sustained release, enabling fewer administrations and lower therapeutic dose. This work expands upon the use of the polyanhydride NP platform for targeted drug delivery by functionalizing the polymer with a derivative of triphenylphosphonium called (3‐carboxypropyl) triphenylphosphonium (CPTP) using a novel method that enables longer CPTP persistence on the NPs. The extent to which neurons internalized both nonfunctionalized and functionalized NPs was tested. Next, the efficacy of these nanoformulations in treating rotenone‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction in the same cell line was evaluated using a novel neuroprotective drug, mito‐metformin. CPTP functionalization significantly improved NP internalization by neuronal cells. This was correlated with significant protection by CPTP‐functionalized, mito‐metformin encapsulated NPs against rotenone‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction. However, nonfunctionalized, mito‐metformin encapsulated NPs and soluble mito‐metformin administered at the same dose did not significantly protect cells from rotenone‐induced toxicity. These results indicate that the targeted NP platform can provide enhanced dose‐sparing and potentially reduce the occurrence of systemic side‐effects for PD therapeutics.
A study of 3013 cases of hepatocellular carcinoma: Etiology and therapy before and during the current decade
Authors: Lim Miao‐Shan , Goh George B‐B , Chang Jason P‐E , Low Jee‐Keem , Shelat Vishalkumar G , Huey Terence C‐W , Dan Yock‐Young , Kow Alfred , Shridhar Iyer , Tan Poh‐Seng , Junnarkar Sameer P , Tan Chee‐Kiat
Published: July 2021

Background and Aim

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant global problem. With advances in HCC diagnosis and therapy, our hypothesis is that there are significant differences in the clinical characteristics and treatment of HCC over the years.

Methods

Patients with HCC between 1980 and 2018 from three major tertiary hospitals in Singapore were enrolled into a Research Electronic Data Capture database. Clinical characteristics and treatment of HCC were compared between those diagnosed before 2008 (cohort A) and during the current decade (ie from 2008 onwards) (cohort B).

Results

There were 3013 patients. Mean age of HCC diagnosis was significantly older in cohort B (68.6 vs 61.2 years, P < 0.001). The most common etiology remained as chronic hepatitis B infection but the proportion due to hepatitis B was significantly lower in cohort B (46.6% vs 57.2%, P < 0.0001). The prevalence of cryptogenic/non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis was significantly higher in cohort B than cohort A (27.1% vs 18.6%, P < 0.0001). More patients received curative therapy in cohort B (43.7% vs 27.1%, P < 0.0001.

Conclusion

In this largest collection of HCC patients in Singapore, patients are diagnosed with HCC at an older age and cryptogenic/non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis is becoming more important as an etiology of HCC in the current decade. More patients also received curative therapy in the current decade.
Altered type 1 interferon responses in alloimmunized and nonalloimmunized patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Madany Emaan , Lee June , Halprin Chelsea , Seo Jina , Baca Nicole , Majlessipour Fataneh , Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Pepkowitz Samuel H. , Hayes Chelsea , Klapper Ellen , Gibb David R.
Published: July 2021

Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) have a high prevalence of RBC alloimmunization. However, underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Given that proinflammatory type 1 interferons (IFNα/β) and interferon stimulated genes (ISGs) promote alloimmunization in mice, we hypothesized that IFNα/β may contribute to the increased frequency of alloimmunization in patients with SCD. To investigate this, expression of ISGs in blood leukocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of previously transfused SCD patients with or without alloimmunization and race‐matched healthy controls were quantified, and IFNα/β gene scores were calculated. IFNα/β gene scores of SCD leukocytes and plasma cytokines were elevated, compared to controls (gene score, p < 0.01). Upon stimulation with IFNβ, isolated PBMCs from patients with SCD had elevated ISGs and IFNα/β gene scores (p < 0.05), compared to stimulated PBMCs from controls. However, IFNβ‐stimulated and unstimulated ISG expression did not significantly differ between alloimmunized and non‐alloimmunized patients. These findings indicate that patients with SCD express an IFNα/β gene signature, and larger studies are needed to fully determine its role in alloimmunization. Further, illustration of altered IFNα/β responses in SCD has potential implications for IFNα/β‐mediated viral immunity, responses to IFNα/β‐based therapies, and other sequelae of SCD.
The interaction between iNKT cells and B cells
Authors: Zhu Tong , Wang Rongli , Miller Heather , Westerberg Lisa S , Yang Lu , Guan Fei , Lee Pamela , Gong Quan , Chen Yan , Liu Chaohong
Published: July 2021

Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKTs) bridge the innate immunity with the adaptive immunity and their interaction with B cells has been extensively studied. Here, we give a complete overview of these two cells, from their mechanism of interaction to clinical prospects and existing problems. In our introduction, we describe the relationship between iNKTs and B cells and explore the current research hotspots and future directions. We begin with how B cells interact and benefit from the innate and adaptive help of iNKTs. Next, we describe the multiple roles of these cells in infections, autoimmunity, and cancers. Lastly, we look into the potential immunotherapies that can be based on iNKTs and the possible treatments for infectious, autoimmune, and other diseases.