bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular uptake of 2‐aminopyridine‐modified peptide nucleic acids conjugated with cell‐penetrating peptides
Authors: Brodyagin Nikita , Kataoka Yuka , Kumpina Ilze , McGee Dennis W. , Rozners Eriks
Published: December 2021

Cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been extensively used to deliver peptide nucleic acid (PNA) in cells. We have previously found that replacement of cytosine in triplex‐forming PNAs with 2‐aminopyridine (M) not only enhanced RNA binding, but also improved cellular uptake of PNAs. In this study, we used confocal fluorescence microscopy to evaluate the ability of CPPs to further improve cellular uptake of M‐modified PNAs. We found that PNAs conjugated with Tat and octa‐arginine peptides were effectively taken up in MCF7 cells when supplied in cell media at 1 μM. Remarkably, M‐modified PNA without any CPP conjugation also showed strong uptake when the concentration was increased to 5 μM. Majority of PNA conjugates remained localized in distinct cytoplasmic vesicles, as judged by dot‐like fluorescence patterns. However, M‐modified PNAs conjugated with Tat, octa‐arginine, and even a simple tri‐lysine peptide also showed dispersed fluorescence in cytoplasm and were taken up in nuclei where they localized in larger vesicles, most likely nucleoli. Endosomolytic peptides or chemicals (chloroquine and CaCl2) did not release the conjugates from cytosolic vesicles, which suggested that the PNAs were not entrapped in endosomes. We hypothesize that M‐modified PNAs escape endosomes and accumulate in cellular compartments rich in RNA, such as nucleoli, stress granules, and P‐bodies.
Macrophage‐targeted delivery of siRNA to silence Mecp2 gene expression attenuates pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Mou Yong , Wu Guo‐Rao , Wang Qi , Pan Ting , Zhang Lei , Xu Yongjian , Xiong Weining , Zhou Qing , Wang Yi
Published: December 2021

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial lung disease characterized by the infiltration of macrophages in the fibrotic region. Currently, no therapeutic strategies effectively control disease progression, and the 5‐year mortality of patients after diagnosis is unacceptably high. Thus, developing an effective and safe treatment for IPF is urgently needed. The present study illustrated that methyl‐CpG‐binding protein 2 (MECP2), a protein responsible for the interpretation of DNA methylome‐encoded information, was abnormally expressed in lung and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples of IPF patients and mice with onset of pulmonary fibrosis. And further studies verified that the overexpression of MECP2 occurred mainly in macrophages. Inhibition of Mecp2 expression in macrophages robustly abrogated alternatively activated macrophage (M2) polarization by regulating interferon regulatory factor 4 expression. Accordingly, cationic liposomes loading Mecp2 small interfering RNA (siRNA) were raised for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. It was noted that the liposomes accumulated in the fibrotic region after intratracheal injection, especially in macrophages. In addition, intratracheal administration of Mecp2 siRNA‐loaded liposomes significantly reversed the established pulmonary fibrosis with few side‐effects and high safety coefficients. Collectively, these results are essential not only for further understanding the DNA methylation in pathogenesis of IPF but also for providing a potent therapeutic strategy for IPF treatment in the clinic practice.
An anatomical model for studying cerebellar tonsillar herniation related to raised intracranial pressure
Authors: Carpenter Kennedy , Iwanaga Joe , Aysenne Aimee , Dumont Aaron S. , Bui C. J. , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: December 2021

Brain herniation is one of the most feared complications of many neurological pathologies. However, current understanding of the mechanisms behind brain herniation syndromes is poor. By investigating the correlations between raised intracranial pressure (ICP) and herniation of the cerebellar tonsils, we hope to develop a model that can be used to study intracranial fluid dynamics and its effects on brain tissue. This will facilitate evaluation of patients with elevated ICP and development of novel treatments including surgical approaches for decompressing the posterior cranial fossa and upper cervical spine. A standard suboccipital surgical approach was used to expose the foramen magnum and observe movements of the cerebellar tonsils in fresh cadavers. A urinary Foley catheter balloon in the parietal extradural space was used to simulate a mass effect while ICP was monitored. The baseline anatomy differed widely among the cadaver specimens. However, and overall, we found that as ICP rises, the cerebellar tonsils descend through the foramen magnum at a rate of 0.3 mm per 1 mmHg increase in ICP. A mean descent of 6.2 mm was observed for a mean ICP increase of 17 mmHg. In this cadaveric study, we present a method and model for exploring brain herniation syndromes in the context of ICP changes. This could allow for further models to study the effects of other neuropathologies on the cerebellar tonsils, including posterior cranial fossa mass lesions and cerebellar hemorrhage.
Sciatic nerve movement in the deep gluteal space during hip rotations maneuvers
Authors: Balius Ramon , Pujol Montse , Pérez‐Cuenca Dolores , Morros Carles , Susín Antonio , Corominas Hèctor , Sala‐Blanch Xavier
Published: December 2021

We hypothesize that the sciatic nerve in the subgluteal space has a specific behavior during internal and external coxofemoral rotation and during isometric contraction of the internal and external rotator muscles of the hip. In 58 healthy volunteers, sciatic nerve behavior was studied by ultrasound during passive internal and external hip rotation movements and during isometric contraction of internal and external rotators. Using MATLAB software, changes in nerve curvature at the beginning and end of each exercise were evaluated for longitudinal catches and axial movement for transverse catches. In the long axis, it was observed that during the passive internal rotation and during the isometric contraction of external rotators, the shape of the curve increased significantly while during the passive external rotation and the isometric contraction of the internal rotators the curvature flattened out. During passive movements in internal rotation, on the short axis, the nerve tended to move laterally and forward, while during external rotation the tendency of the nerve was to move toward a medial and backward position. During the isometric exercises, this displacement was less in the passive movements. Passive movements of hip rotation and isometric contraction of the muscles affect the sciatic nerve in the subgluteal space. Retrotrochanteric pain may be related to both the shear effect of the subgluteus muscles and the endoneural and mechanosensitive aggression to which the sciatic nerve is subjected.
miR‐155‐regulated mTOR and Toll‐like receptor 5 in gastric diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Huang Wei‐Ting , Kuo Sung‐Hsin , Kuo Yi‐Chun , Lin Chung‐Wu
Published: December 2021

Background

Gastric diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is often associated with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. Those in the early stage could be treated with H. pylori eradication therapy, and are classified into a sensitive group and a resistant group.

Methods

Genome‐wide miRNA and miRNA expression profiles were obtained from biopsy specimens of gastric DLBCL. MiRNAs and their targets as predictors of responses to H. pylori eradication therapy were identified through differential expression and pathway enrichment analysis, and further confirmed with transfection experiments in lymphoma cell lines of B‐cell origin.

Results

Genome‐wide miRNA and mRNA profiles showed miR‐200 was associated with the sensitive group, and that the resistant group had higher levels of miR‐155 and lower levels of DEPTOR (an inhibitor of mTOR) than the sensitive group. BJAB cells transfected with miR‐155 also had lower DEPTOR and higher mTOR levels. Therefore, miR‐155‐mediated inhibition of DEPTOR with secondary activation of mTOR was a potential marker for resistance to H. pylori eradication therapy. In contrast, pathway enrichment analysis showed that Toll‐like receptor 5 (TLR5), the receptor for bacterial flagellin, was a potential marker for sensitivity to H. pylori eradication therapy. In an independent series, stronger expression of pS6K1 (a direct target of mTOR) was associated with the resistant group and morphologic evidence of active gastritis was associated with the sensitive group.

Conclusions

These findings showed that activation of the miR‐155‐DEPTOR pathway is a marker for resistance to H. pylori eradication therapy, and that histological evaluation of active gastritis might be used as a surrogate marker to predict responses to H. pylori eradication therapy in gastric DLBCL.
Online group‐buying: The effect of deal popularity on consumer purchase intention
Authors: Chow Cheris W. C. , Chow Clement S. F. , Lai Jennifer Y. M. , Zhang Lida L.
Published: December 2021

Group‐buying, in which consumers are granted a discounted price on a purchase offer within a particular period if the offer can achieve a required group size, is a prevalent marketing channel in recent years. Based on the bandwagon effect, a group‐buying offer looks more attractive when there are more sign‐ups for it. However, when the number of sign‐ups is too large, the opposing network externality takes effect because consumers begin to worry that the excessive demand will jeopardize the supplier's ability to maintain quality offering. We captured these two effects by proposing an inverted U‐shaped relationship between group‐buying deal popularity and consumer purchase intention. Additionally, we identified consumers' risk attitude as a conceptually important boundary condition of this relationship. We conducted two lab experiments to test the hypotheses. The results showed that group‐buying deal popularity increased consumer purchase intention before popularity reached a certain point and decreased consumer purchase intention after popularity reached this point. We also found that this inverted U‐shaped relationship was more pronounced for risk‐averse than risk‐taking consumers. Important implications for group‐buying intermediaries are discussed.
Persistence and Evolution of Materials Features During Catalysis Using Topological and Trivial Polymorphs of MoTe2
Authors: Katzbear Rowan R. , Zhu Yanglin , Mao Zhiqiang , Schaak Raymond E.
Published: December 2021

Topological materials have high carrier mobilities that can be maintained in the presence of crystal structure defects, which is useful for catalysis. Topological materials have been shown to be active catalysts, but it remains unclear if topology persists during catalysis. We studied the physical and chemical evolution of MoTe2 during photo‐ and electrocatalytic hydrogen production. This material offers a unique opportunity to directly compare a trivial semiconductor, 2H‐MoTe2, with a topological insulator, 1T’‐MoTe2, with comparable compositions, crystal structures, and surface roughnesses. We observed no major bulk changes in the materials after catalysis. The surfaces of the catalysts were significantly roughened and oxidized, but the carrier mobility of the topological phase remained high. These results suggest that topology persists during, and may be advantageous for, catalysis, and provide rationale for considering topology in the search for water‐splitting catalysts.
Ring Opening Reactions of β‐Propiolactam in Superacidic Media
Authors: Beck Stefanie , Rück Vanessa , Pietsch Lea‐Viktoria , Jessen Christoph , Kornath Andreas J.
Published: December 2021

The reaction of β‐propiolactam in the superacidic systems HF/MF5 (M=Sb, As) led to the formation of monoprotonated 3‐aminopropanoyl fluoride in the form of [C(O)F(CH2)2NH3][SbF6] and [C(O)F(CH2)2NH3][AsF6]. In the presence of traces of water, the diprotonated species β‐alanine [C(OH)2(CH2)2NH3][AsF6]2 was synthesized for the first time. All salts were characterized by low‐temperature infrared and Raman spectroscopy. Additionally, single‐crystal X‐ray analyses were conducted in the case of [C(O)F(CH2)2NH3][SbF6] and [C(OH)2(CH2)2NH3][AsF6]2. By using SO2 instead of HF as the solvent, the salt [C(OH)2(CH2)2NHSO][SbF6]2 was obtained, and single‐crystal X‐ray analysis of this salt containing a thionylimide moiety was conducted. For the formation of these open‐chain compounds, an acyl cationic species as intermediate is assumed, which is formed from N‐protonated β‐propiolactam. Quantum chemical calculations at the B3LYP/aug‐cc‐pVTZ and MP2/aug‐cc‐pVTZ levels of theory were carried out to gain a better understanding of the formation and the structural properties of protonated β‐propiolactam.
Prediction of the ASTM and TBP distillation curves and specific gravity distribution curve for fuels and petroleum fluids
Authors: Hosseinifar Pouya , Shahverdi Hamidreza
Published: December 2021

A predictive approach called the six‐point method is developed to construct distillation curves of different petroleum fluids based on the information of six points of the distillation curve at volume percentages (5, 10, 30, 50, 70, and 90). Indeed, six diverse mathematical equations are developed, which establish relationships between the six mentioned distillation temperatures and physical properties ( and ) of petroleum fluids. Having predicted the six points, a third‐order polynomial curve can easily be fitted over these data. Accordingly, the six‐point method is well capable of predicting the distillation curve of both American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D86 and true boiling point (TBP) data for any arbitrary petroleum fluid using only their physical properties. Two auxiliary relations are also presented to estimate the physical properties that may not be available for a petroleum fraction. These relations enable the model to receive pairs of () and () as input parameters, instead of (). A useful transfer function is also developed to convert the TBP curve predicted by the six‐point method to the specific gravity distribution curve. Furthermore, a new set of experimental data obtained from the distillation test is also presented in this work. The experiment has been performed on the petroleum cuts resulting from the crude oil atmospheric distillation unit and Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) production unit. The model performance was carefully evaluated against a wide range of literature data as well as new experimental data provided in this study, and the mean of average absolute deviations (AAD%) values was 1.98% for about 233 samples, including 2039 data points.
Control of Molecular Conformation and Crystal Packing of Biphenyl Derivatives
Authors: Landeros‐Rivera Bruno , Hernández‐Trujillo Jesús
Published: December 2021

This Review presents a discussion of the conformation of biphenyl derivatives in different chemical environments. The interplay between aromatic stabilization and steric repulsion, normally considered to explain the conformation of the molecule, is contrasted with the interpretation provided by models not based on molecular orbitals. The electronic control of conformation by means of appropriate hydrogen substitution is discussed by examples taken from chemistry and molecular electronics. Supramolecular synthons involving biphenyl are critically analyzed in terms of the molecular conformation, crystal packing and intermolecular forces. Some directions for future research on the control of the conformation of biphenyls are also presented.
QTL mapping and colocalization analysis reveal novel candidate genes for multiple disease resistance in maize
Authors: Palanichamy Dhyaneswaran , Smith Margaret
Published: December 2021

Unpredictable pathogen pressures resulting from changing climatic patterns have required plant breeders to breed crop cultivars with durable resistance to multiple plant pathogens. The genetic basis of multiple disease resistance (MDR) is an important component in building durable resistance in crop plants. Maize (Zea mays L.) inbred NY22613, developed at Cornell University, has shown resistance to northern leaf blight (NLB), gray leaf spot (GLS), common rust, and Stewart's wilt (SW). In order to unravel the genetic basis of MDR in NY22613, quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and colocalization studies were conducted. A BC3S3 biparental mapping population (resistant inbred NY22613 and susceptible recurrent inbred Oh7B) was used to map the QTL responsible for disease resistance. The analysis revealed that 16 QTL were associated with NLB resistance, 17 QTL with GLS resistance, and 16 QTL with SW resistance. No QTL were colocalized for all three diseases. Three QTL were shared for NLB and GLS in chromosomes 7, 9, and 10 and one QTL was shared for GLS and SW in chromosome 2. These QTL contain the following genes that have been previously associated with disease resistance: Zm00001d002005 (lg1, liguleless1), Zm00001d024007, Zm00001d024008, LOC103642379, and LOC103641009. These regions also contain the following novel genes, which have not been associated with any function: LOC541757, Zm00001d044974, Zm00001d044975, and LOC109941121. To select individuals with MDR, a novel selection method was developed that combines phenotypic data, QTL data, and high‐density marker information in a cluster analysis designated as the high‐density marker phenotype (HEMP) QTL selection strategy.
Photocatalytic Oxidation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural Over Interfacial‐Enhanced Ag/TiO2 Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Zhang Weizi , Li Xinxin , Liu Shaoru , Qiu Jianhao , An Jiahuan , Yao Jianfeng , Zuo Songlin , Zhang Bo , Xia Haian , Li Changzhi
Published: December 2021

Photocatalytic conversion of biomass‐derived 5‐hydroxyfurfural (HMF) to value‐added 5‐hydroxymethyl‐2‐furancarboxylic acid (HMFCA) is an environmentally friendly process. Here, Ag nanoparticle (NP) supported on TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) materials with different interfacial structures were fabricated via incipient wetness impregnation. In the photocatalytic oxidation of 5‐HMF to HMFCA, low‐temperature reduction (473 K) on Ag/TiO2 could improve the photoinduced charge separation efficiency and promote the reaction due to the “enhanced” localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effects achieved through strong metal–support interaction (SMSI). In particular, 2.5 % Ag/TiO2‐LTR exhibited superior performance with an HMFCA selectivity of up to 96.7 % under visible‐light illumination. In contrast, the photocatalytic efficiency was greatly reduced when the reduction temperature increased to 773 K because of the encapsulation of Ag NPs by a thicker TiOx overlay, which significantly weakened visible‐light harvesting. Overall, these findings offer an efficient methodology for designing interfacial enhanced plasmonic photocatalysts for the valorization of biomass.
Prospective multisite cohort study of patient‐reported outcomes in adults with new‐onset seizures
Authors: Foster Emma , Chen Zhibin , Vaughan David N. , Tailby Christopher , Carney Patrick W. , D’Souza Wendyl , Au Yong Hue Mun , Nicolo John‐Paul , Pellinen Jacob , Carrillo de Albornoz Sara , Liew Danny , O’Brien Terence J. , Kwan Patrick , Ademi Zanfina
Published: December 2021

Objective

New‐onset seizures affect up to 10% of people over their lifetime, however, their health economic impact has not been well‐studied. This prospective multicenter study will collect patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) from adults with new‐onset seizures seen in six Seizure Clinics across Melbourne, Australia and The University of Colorado, USA.

Methods

Approximately 450 eligible patients will be enrolled in the study at or following their initial attendance to Seizure Clinics at the study hospitals. Inclusion criteria for the study group are those with new‐onset acute symptomatic seizures, new‐onset unprovoked seizures, and new‐onset epilepsy. Inclusion criteria for the three comparator groups are those with noncardiac syncope, those with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, as well as published PROMs data from the Australian general population. Exclusion criteria are those aged less than 18 years, those with a preexisting epilepsy diagnosis, and those with intellectual disabilities or other impairments which would preclude them from comprehending and completing the questionnaires. Patients will complete eight online questionnaires regarding the effect that their seizures (or seizure mimics) have had on various aspects of their life. These questionnaires will be readministered at 6 and 12 months. Patients with new‐diagnosis epilepsy will also be asked to share the reasons why they have accepted or declined antiseizure medications.

Analysis

Primary outcome measures will be quality of life, work productivity, informal care needs, and mood, at baseline compared to 6 and 12 months later for those with new‐onset seizures and comparing these outcomes to those in the three comparator groups. Secondary outcomes include mapping of QoLIE‐31 to the EQ‐5D‐5L in epilepsy, modelling indirect costs of new‐onset seizures, and exploring why patients may or may not wish to take antiseizure medications.

Significance

These data will form an evidence‐base for future studies that examine the effectiveness of various healthcare interventions for new‐onset seizure patients.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is approved by the Alfred Health Human Research Ethics Committee (SERP: 52 538, Alfred HREC: 307/19), the Austin Health Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/59148/Austin‐2019), and the Colorado Multiple Institutional Review Board (COMIRB) (COMIRB #20‐3028).

ANZCTR trial registration number

ACTRN12621000908831.
Risk factors that predict delayed seizure detection on continuous electroencephalogram (cEEG) in a large sample size of critically ill patients
Authors: Zawar Ifrah , Briskin Isaac , Hantus Stephen
Published: December 2021

Objective

Majority of seizures are detected within 24 hours on continuous EEG (cEEG). Some patients have delayed seizure detection after 24 hours. The purpose of this research was to identify risk factors that predict delayed seizure detection and to determine optimal cEEG duration for various patient subpopulations.

Methods

We retrospectively identified all patients ≥18 years of age who underwent cEEG at Cleveland clinic during calendar year 2016. Clinical and EEG data for all patients and time to seizure detection for seizure patients were collected.

Results

Twenty‐four hundred and two patients met inclusion criteria. Of these, 316 (13.2%) had subclinical seizures. Sixty‐five (20.6%) patients had delayed seizures detection after 24 hours. Seizure detection increased linearly till 36 hours of monitoring, and odds of seizure detection increased by 46% for every additional day of monitoring. Delayed seizure risk factors included stupor (13.2% after 48 hours, P = .031), lethargy (25.9%, P = .013), lateralized (LPDs) (27.7%, P = .029) or generalized periodic discharges (GPDs) (33.3%, P = .022), acute brain insults (25.5%, P = .036), brain bleeds (32.8%, P = .014), especially multiple concomitant bleeds (61.1%, P < .001), altered mental status (34.7%, P = .001) as primary cEEG indication, and use of antiseizure medications (27.8%, P < .001) at cEEG initiation.

Significance

Given the linear seizure detection trend, 36 hours of standard monitoring appears more optimal than 24 hours especially for high‐risk patients. For awake patients without epileptiform discharges, <24 hours of monitoring appears sufficient. Previous studies have shown that coma and LPDs predict delayed seizure detection. We found that stupor and lethargy were also associated with delayed seizure detection. LPDs and GPDs were associated with delayed seizures. Other delayed seizure risk factors included acute brain insults, brain bleeds especially multiple concomitant bleeds, altered mental status as primary cEEG indication, and use of ASMs at cEEG initiation. Longer cEEG (≥48 hours) is suggested for these high‐risk patients.
Toward a Framework for Environmental Fate and Exposure Assessment of Polymers
Authors: Brunning Hattie , Sallach J. Brett , Zanchi Victor , Price Oliver , Boxall Alistair
Published: December 2021

Development of risk-assessment methodologies for polymers is an emerging regulatory priority to prevent negative environmental impacts; however, the diversity and complexity of polymers require adaptation of existing environmental risk-assessment approaches. The present review discusses the challenges and opportunities for the fate and exposure assessment of polymers in the context of regulatory environmental risk assessment of chemicals. The review discusses the applicability and adequacy for polymers of existing fate parameters used for nonpolymeric compounds and proposes additional parameters that could inform the fate of polymers. The significance of these parameters in various stages of an exposure-assessment framework is highlighted, with classification of polymers as solid or dissolved being key for identification of those parameters most relevant to environmental fate. Considerations to address the key limitations and knowledge gaps are then identified and discussed, specifically the complexity of polymer identification, with the need for characterization of the most significant parameters for polymer grouping and prioritization; the complexity of polymer degradation in the environment, with the need to incorporate the fate and hazards of degradation products into risk assessment; the requirement for development and standardization of analytical methods for characterization of polymer fate properties and degradation products; and the need to develop exposure modeling approaches for polymers. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:515–540. © 2021 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Spillers's baby, anthropology's maybe: A postgenomic reckoning
Authors: Massie Victoria M.
Published: December 2021

This article is a meditation on the state of anthropological studies of race in the postgenomic era through its particular analytical obsession with the resurrection of biological racism as presumably embodied by genetic African ancestry. Drawing on Hortense Spillers' psychoanalytic framework on race, this essay argues that the failures ascribed to genetic African ancestry and those who build relations with one another through it, is a desperate plea to salvage the last vestiges of anthropology's anti‐racialist position against biological determinism at a moment when the instability of field of biology betrays that possibility. This essay builds on feminist kinship studies to trace how genetic African ancestry is discursively put to work to naturalize the disciplinary refusal to reckon with racism – especially when it is perpetuated by the discipline itself. By reframing genetic ancestry through the grammar of black kinship practices, this article compels anthropologists to reflect on the ways critiques of genetic African ancestry traffic biological and historical essentialisms to reposition ourselves as "right" on race rather than take on a perspective on contemporary processes of racialization at this moment as the circulation of genetic African ancestry demands.
A global synthesis of fire effects on ecosystem services of forests and woodlands
Authors: Roces‐Díaz Jose V , Santín Cristina , Martínez‐Vilalta Jordi , Doerr Stefan H
Published: December 2021

Fire is a primary disturbance in the world’s forested ecosystems and its impacts are projected to increase in many regions due to global climate change. Fire impacts have been studied for decades, but integrative assessments of its effects on multiple ecosystem services (ES) across scales are rare. We conducted a global analysis of persistent (>1 year) fire effects on eight ES reported over the past 30 years, evaluating qualitative and quantitative information from 207 peer‐reviewed studies. Significant effects were predominantly positive for “water provision” and negative for “water quality”, “climate regulation”, and “erosion control”; for “food provision” and “soil fertility”, no overall significant effects emerged; and for “recreation” or “pollination”, data were insufficient. These effects were generally short‐lived (1–2 years) and were more common after wildfires than after prescribed burns. However, available data were primarily derived from only a few countries/biomes and extended only over short time periods, highlighting the need for future research focusing on underrepresented regions and biomes, more extensive timeframes, and multiple ES.
Safety and metabolic advantages of steroid withdrawal after 6 months posttransplant in de novo kidney transplantation: A 1‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Bang Jun B. , Oh Chang‐Kwon , Kim Yu S. , Kim Sung H. , Yu Hee C. , Kim Chan‐Duck , Ju Man Ki , So Byung J. , Lee Sang Ho , Han Sang Y. , Jung Cheol W. , Kim Joong K. , Ahn Hyung J. , Lee Su H. , Jeon Ja Y.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

This prospective multicenter study aimed at investigating the safety and metabolic advantages of steroid withdrawal (SW) therapy in kidney transplant recipients with tacrolimus–mycophenolate mofetil‐based immunosuppression.

Methods

We analyzed 179 recipients who received kidney transplantation from March 2016 and September 2018. In 179 recipients, 114 patients maintained an immunosuppressive regimen including steroids (steroid continuation [SC] group). The remaining 65 patients were determined to withdraw steroid therapy after 6 months posttransplant (SW group). Metabolic parameters and graft functions of the two groups were evaluated.

Results

The estimated glomerular filtration rates at 12 months posttransplant were 67.29 ± 20.29 ml/min/1.73 m2 in SC group and 73.72 ± 17.57 ml/min/1.73 m2 in SW group (p < .001). The acute rejection occurred to four recipients in the SC group (3.5%) and no acute rejection occurred to SW group recipients during the 6–2 months posttransplant period. Oral glucose tolerance tests revealed that recipients in the SW group were more improved in glucose metabolism than the SC group during 6–12 months posttransplant. In addition, cholesterol levels and blood pressure decreased after the withdrawal of steroids in the SW group.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a 6‐month withdrawal of steroids in recipients with low immunological risk and stable graft function can be safely conducted and result in improvement of metabolic profiles. Stable recipients without biopsy‐proven acute rejection and proteinuria can safely withdraw from steroids out of a maintenance immunosuppressive regimen 6‐months posttransplant. A long‐term follow‐up study is needed to verify our results.
Nonparametric tests of tail behavior in stochastic frontier models
Authors: Horrace William C. , Wang Yulong
Published: December 2021

This article studies tail behavior for the error components in the stochastic frontier model, where one component has bounded support on one side, and the other has unbounded support on both sides. Under weak assumptions on the error components, we derive nonparametric tests for thin‐tailed distributional assumptions imposed on these two components. The tests are useful diagnostic tools for stochastic frontier analysis and kernel deconvolution density estimation. A simulation study and applications to four previously studied datasets are provided. In two of these applications, the new tests reject the thin‐tailed distributional assumptions such as normal or Laplace, which are commonly imposed in the existing literature.
3D bioprinting of photo‐crosslinkable silk methacrylate (SilMA)‐polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) bioink for cartilage tissue engineering
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Ashutosh , Mandal Biman B. , Bhardwaj Nandana
Published: December 2021

Articular cartilage damage poses huge burden on healthcare sector globally due to its extremely weak inherent regenerative ability. Three‐dimensional (3D) bioprinting for development of cartilage mimic constructs using composite bioinks serves as an emerging perspective. However, difficulty in development of suitable bioink and chemical crosslinking associated inherent toxicity hamper widespread adoption of this technique. To circumvent this, a photo‐polymerizable hydrogel‐based bioink which helps in recapitulation of the complex cartilage microenvironment is pertinent. Herein, a photo‐crosslinkable bioink containing different concentrations of silk methacrylate (SilMA) and polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) was mixed with chondrocytes for biofabrication of 3D bioprinted cartilage constructs. The rheological properties, printability of bioink and physico‐chemical characterization of printed hydrogel constructs were examined along with cartilaginous tissue formation. The printed SilMA‐PEGDA hydrogel constructs possessed proper internal porous structure and demonstrated most reliable rheological properties, printability along with good mechanical, and degradation properties suitable for cartilage regeneration. Live/dead staining showed cytocompatibility of the 3D‐bioprinted SilMA‐PEGDA constructs. Moreover, a marked increase in cell number and DNA content was observed within the cartilaginous tissue as indicated by cell viability and DNA content quantitation. Biochemical evaluation confirmed the neocartilage formation within SilMA‐PEGDA bioprinted constructs as revealed by enhanced deposition of cartilage specific extracellular matrix‐sulphated GAG (sGAG) and collagen type II (>2‐fold increase, p < 0.001) with time. Finally, immunohistochemical analysis indicated expression of collagen type II and aggrecan which corroborated with cartilaginous tissue formation. Taken together, we conclude that SilMA‐PEGDA bioink could be suitable candidate for bioprinting chondrocytes to support cartilage tissue repair and regeneration.
Using interpersonal reconstructive therapy to address comorbid problems organized by attachment‐based learning: The case of Don
Authors: Critchfield Kenneth L. , Thapa Priyata , Panizo Mariafé T. , Conceição Nuno
Published: December 2021

Feature heterogeneity and diagnostic overlap occur regularly among patients in clinical settings. In interpersonal reconstructive therapy (IRT), a case formulation focused on patterns learned in close attachment relationships guides intervention choices. This study illustrates how IRT formulation and treatment proceed, and how it may also fail when there is not close adherence to underlying principles. Don is a music professor in his 40's with a significant trauma history and complex diagnostic profile that includes many hospitalizations and suicide attempts. He qualified for several diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders personality disorders via formal diagnostic interviews (obsessive‐compulsive, avoidant, passive‐aggressive, narcissistic), as well as major depression, generalized anxiety, and substance abuse. Don's formulation demonstrates how self‐destruction can function as a “gift of love” to internalized representations of important caregivers. Data from work with patients like Don confirm the usefulness of Benjamin's IRT lens for navigating comorbidity, as well as the importance of underlying principles of change.
The potential of psychological connectedness: Mitigating the impacts of COVID‐19 through sense of community and community resilience
Authors: Mannarini Terri , Rizzo Marco , Brodsky Anne , Buckingham Sara , Zhao Jenny , Rochira Alessia , Fedi Angela
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to identify patterns of relationships connecting sense of community (SOC) and community resilience with psychological wellbeing, via the mediation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) impacts on life domains. Survey data were collected from an international sample of adults (n = 824) during the COVID‐19 outbreak (June–September 2020). Using a structural equation model, we tested a mediation model to identify the associations between SOC and community resilience with the perceived impacts of the emergency situation and with psychological wellbeing. Results revealed that SOC mitigated the impacts of COVID‐19 on multiple life domains, and it was also positively associated with wellbeing. Community resilience was correlated with SOC and wellbeing but showed no significant relationship with COVID‐19 impacts. The findings support that SOC has a protective function and can contribute to mitigating the impacts of difficult life situations. SOC can also be leveraged as an intervention aimed at protecting the wellbeing of people and communities, particularly in times of crisiss
What makes us complete: Hybrid multicultural identity and its social contextual origins
Authors: Belgrade Andrea , Kira Mari , Sadaghiyani Shima , Lee Fiona
Published: December 2021

Our research explores the experience of holding a Hybrid Multicultural Identity (a superordinate cultural identity; HMI) and the social contextual experiences hybrid multiculturals describe as influential to the development of an HMI. We conducted a Photovoice study with 10 hybrid multiculturals (age 18–32; 6 women and 4 men) living in a college town in the Midwestern US. The participants valued HMI for the psychological advantages they attributed to this identity. We also found the participants described three broad categories of their social environment that were key to the development of HMI: cultural composition in living environments, perceptions of macro‐level marginalization, and culturally related interpersonal experiences. Our research documents (1) the lived experience of being a hybrid multicultural (2) the importance of cultural mixing for HMI development, and (3) how people with HMI describe primarily negative perceptions of the social environment as instrumental to the development of HMI.
Implication of scanning electron microscopy as a tool for identification of novel, nonedible oil seeds for biodiesel production
Authors: Rozina  , Ahmad Mushtaq , Khan Amir Muhammad , Abbas Qamar , Arfan Muhammad , Mahmood Tariq , Zafar Muhammad , Raza Jamil , Sultana Shazia , Akhtar Maryam Tanveer , Ameen Maria
Published: December 2021

Biodiesel is a promising, bio‐based, renewable, nontoxic, environment friendly, and alternative fuel for petroleum derived fuels which helps to reduce dependency on conventional fossil fuels. In this study, six novel, nonedible seed oil producing feedstock were explored for their potential for sustainable production of biodiesel. It is very important to correctly identify oil yielding plant species. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used as reliable tool for authentic identification of oil yielding seeds. Macromorphological characters of seeds were studied with light microscopy (LM). Outcomes of LM of seeds exposed distinctive variation in seed size from 16.3 to 3.2 mm in length and 12.4 to 0.9 mm in width, shape varied from oval to triangular, and color from black to light brown. Oil content of nonedible seed ranged from 25 to 30% (w/w). Free fatty acid content of seed oil varied from 0.32 to 2.5 mg KOH/g. Moreover, ultra structural study of seeds via SEM showed variation in surface sculpturing, cell arrangement, cell shape, periclinal wall shape, margins, protuberances, and anticlinal wall shape. Surface sculpturing varied from rugged, reticulate, varrucose, papillate, and striate. Periclinal wall arrangements confirmed variation from rough, wavy, raised, depressed, smooth, and elevated whereas, anticlinal walls pattern showed variation from profuse undulating, smooth, raised, grooved, deep, curved, and depressed. It was concluded that SEM could be a latent and advanced technique in unveiling hidden micromorphological characters of nonedible oil yielding seeds which delivers valuable information to researchers and indigenous people for precise and authentic identification and recognition.
Omicron and Delta variant of SARS‐CoV‐2: A comparative computational study of spike protein
Authors: Kumar Suresh , Thambiraja Thiviya S. , Karuppanan Kalimuthu , Subramaniam Gunasekaran
Published: December 2021

Emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) variants, especially those of concern, may have an impact on the virus's transmissibility and pathogenicity, as well as diagnostic equipment performance and vaccine effectiveness. Even though the SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta variant (B.1.617.2) emerged during India's second wave of infections, Delta variants have grown dominant internationally and are still evolving. On November 26, 2021, World Health Organization identified the variant B.1.1.529 as a variant of concern, naming it Omicron, based on evidence that Omicron contains numerous mutations that may influence its behavior. However, the mode of transmission and severity of the Omicron variant remains unknown. We used computational studies to examine the Delta and Omicron variants in this study and found that the Omicron variant had a higher affinity for human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) than the Delta variant due to a significant number of mutations in the SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor‐binding domain (RBD), indicating a higher potential for transmission. Based on docking studies, the Q493R, N501Y, S371L, S373P, S375F, Q498R, and T478K mutations contribute significantly to high binding affinity with human ACE2. In comparison to the Delta variant, both the entire spike protein and the RBD in Omicron include a high proportion of hydrophobic amino acids such as leucine and phenylalanine. These amino acids are located within the protein's core and are required for structural stability. We observed a disorder–order transition in the Omicron variant between spike protein RBD regions 468–473, and it may be significant in the influence of disordered residues/regions on spike protein stability and binding to ACE2. A future study might investigate the epidemiological and biological consequences of the Omicron variant.
Allograft prosthetic composite reconstruction using a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for failed oncologic proximal humerus reconstruction
Authors: Houdek Matthew T. , Wagner Eric R. , Rose Peter S. , Barlow Jonathan D. , Elhassan Bassem T. , Sanchez‐Sotelo Joaquin
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Endoprosthetic or allograft reconstruction are the preferred reconstruction techniques for proximal humeral bone tumors. Failure of these reconstructions may occur, but historically revision is performed rarely due to the lack of reliable options. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty with an allograft prosthetic composite (rAPC) may provide a revision option. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate our institutional outcome of these procedures.

Methods

Eleven (6 male, 5 female) patients (mean age 51 ± 17 years) underwent revision of a failed oncologic reconstruction of the proximal humerus utilizing a rAPC. The most common indication for revision was subluxation (n = 6) and the most common previous implant was an endoprosthesis (n = 5).

Results

Revision resulted in improvements in shoulder elevation (39° vs. 62°, p = 0.02), external rotation (13° vs. 25°, p = 0.04), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (39 vs. 58, p = 0.004) and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Scores (51% vs 69%, p = 0.002). There were 2 re‐revision procedures performed. One for an allograft fracture and one for allograft resorption and loosening.

Conclusions

Revision with a rAPC can effectively restore patient function. Due to the complexity of the cases, we advocate for these procedures to be performed by subspecialty upper extremity surgeons trained in complex revision shoulder arthroplasty.
Eutrophication and temperature drive large variability in carbon dioxide from China's Lake Taihu
Authors: Xiao Qitao , Duan Hongtao , Qin Boqiang , Hu Zhenghua , Zhang Mi , Qi Tianci , Lee Xuhui
Published: December 2021

Eutrophication and warming are changing the functioning of lake ecosystems, and their impacts on lake carbon dioxide (CO2) variability have received increasing attention. However, how eutrophication and warming change lakes' carbon cycle has not been determined. Here, the surface partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) and CO2 flux in Lake Taihu, a large and eutrophic lake in eastern China, was investigated based on monthly samplings over a 24‐yr period (1992–2015), during which the lake experienced profound anthropogenic and climate changes. The results showed that eutrophication caused by nutrient enrichment plays a role in three aspects: (1) nutrient concentrations controlled the CO2 variability on decadal scales; (2) peak pCO2 and CO2 fluxes occurred in river mouths due to large external nutrient loading inputs; and (3) eutrophication effects on CO2 varied among subzones, which was linked to external inputs and in‐lake primary production. Meanwhile, temperature controls the seasonal variation in CO2 by stimulating primary production, leading to significantly lower pCO2 and CO2 fluxes in warm seasons with algal blooms. Further analysis suggested that temperature effects varied spatially and temporally, high nutrient loading may confound the temperature effects via stimulating CO2 production. To our knowledge, this study presents the longest field measurements (24 yr) of CO2 from such large and ice‐free freshwater lakes with monthly surveys, which may provide a powerful example to demonstrate that eutrophication and warming can shape CO2 variability from a temporal perspective. Future studies should focus on the interactive warming and eutrophication effects to accurately predict future CO2 emission.
Optical Resonator Enhanced Photovoltaics and Photocatalysis: Fundamental and Recent Progress
Authors: Yuan Zhiyi , Wu Pin Chieh , Chen Yu‐Cheng
Published: December 2021

Solar light is recognized as one of the most valuable sustainable energy sources of the future. Finding solutions to enhance energy‐conversion efficiency is of paramount significance for realizing more efficient photovoltaic and photocatalytic devices. Remarkable development in chemical and physical strategies has been explored to increase the optical‐absorption coefficients, extend the spectral range, and optimize the light‐harvesting and conversion efficiency. Optical resonators, which play a ubiquitous role in modern optics, possess the unique ability to provide strong optical confinement and enormous light‐matter interactions. Such features have attracted tremendous attention in photoelectric enhancement and applications in photovoltaic, photocatalysis, and even light‐emitting devices recently. This review presents theoretical as well as experimental progress on enhanced photovoltaic and photocatalysis by exploiting optical resonators. Fundamentals of various optical cavities are discussed according to confinement and photoelectric enhancing mechanism, including Fabry–Perot, whispering gallery mode, photonic crystal, plasmonics, and hybrid cavities. Finally, the application prospects of cavity‐enhanced photoelectric effect, including strong coupling, cavity design, and challenges are discussed. It is envisioned that the successful implementation of optical resonators in photoenergy applications may open a promising avenue for a broad spectrum of light‐energy‐conversion technologies.