bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Outbreak of Foodborne Disease by Pathogenic Enterobacteriaceae Antimicrobial Resistance - A Review
Authors: Al-Seghayer Mazen S. , Al-Sarraj Faisal MB.
Published: June 2021

Chemicals, bacteria, viruses, and parasites can cause contamination of food. The general signs and symptoms of food poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, headache, abdominal cramps, and fever. Paralysis and death could occur in severe infection. Most cases of food poisoning in Saudi Arabia are caused by the Enterobacteriaceae family of bacteria which is comprised of Shigella, Salmonella, and Escherichia coli. Most medications that are used to treat infections that are caused by these bacteria have become ineffective due to resistance. Escherichia coli reaches intestines due to fecal-oral contamination, consuming contaminated food, animal products, and water. Affected individuals present with fever, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, kidney failure, and hemolytic uremic syndrome. Some strains do not cause fever. Food hygiene is the best way of breaking the transmission cycle of Escherichia coli. Salmonella typhi is the causative agent of typhoid fever. The clinical picture of the affected individuals includes typhoid and non-typhoid symptoms. Typhoid symptoms include high fever, stomach pain, weakness, cough, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. On the other hand, non-typhoid signs are comprised of fever, septicemia, and prostration. Food contamination by Shigella spp. culminates in fever, cramps, diarrhea, and bloody stool. The microbe gets into healthy humans through contaminated food, tools, and water or via direct contact (like in sexual intercourse). Effective management of food poisoning entails rehydration, use of antibiotics, and encouraging adequate rest for the affected patients. One challenge that is likely to hamper the current treatment modality is the microbial resistance that the microbes have gained. Thus, new drugs have to be developed. The objectives and aims are to investigate the current biohazard of these types of microbes on foods and human safety in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and across the world, as well as to identify mutated and antibiotic-resistant types.
Investigation into Grade XI Students’ Misconception about the Limit Concept: A Case Study at Samtse Higher Secondary School in Bhutan
Authors: Kado .
Published: June 2021

In the study of calculus, the concept of limit of function occupies a central role as it is important instruments used in the study of the theory of rate of change, continuity, integral calculus, and differential calculus. Despite its significance, the secondary students hold the inadequate understanding of the limit concepts, more over their concept image of the limit function deviated from the concept definition resulting in the misconception. This study aims to identify the misconception in the limit of function and possible causes of misconceptions. This study was done in two phases, a concept test based on limit of function was administered to all 25 students of Samtse Higher Secondary School. Subsequently, based on the errors and misconception demonstrated by students from the concept test, five students were purposively selected and interviewed to corroborate the finding from concept test to confirm the existence of misconception and its causes. Data from the transcripts, capturing essential and relevant bits of student's responses to each question, was collected.  The data were analyzed and result of the study can be described as follows; it was found that learners only think of the manipulative aspect when solving problems on limits and not of the limit concept, confusion over the concept of the limit and value of function, and ambiguity regarding the formal definition of the limit of function. The possible cause of the misconceptions can be attributed to instrumental learning and lack of the sound knowledge in algebra which is cornerstone to understand the limit concept.
Molecular characteristics and tumorigenicity of ascites‐derived tumor cells: mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation as a novel therapy target in ovarian cancer
Authors: Ding Yi , Labitzky Vera , Legler Karen , Qi Minyue , Schumacher Udo , Schmalfeldt Barbara , Stürken Christine , Oliveira‐Ferrer Leticia
Published: June 2021

Ovarian cancer disseminates primarily intraperitoneally. Detached tumor cell aggregates (spheroids) from the primary tumor are regarded as ‘metastatic units’ that exhibit a low sensitivity to classical chemotherapy, probably due to their unique molecular characteristics. We have analyzed the cellular composition of ascites from OvCa patients, using flow cytometry, and studied their behavior in vitro and in vivo. We conclude that ascites‐derived cultured cells from OvCa patients give rise to two subpopulations: adherent cells and non‐adherent cells. Here, we found that the AD population includes mainly CD90+ cells with highly proliferative rates in vitro but no tumorigenic potential in vivo, whereas the NAD population contains principally tumor cell spheroids (EpCAM+/CD24+) with low proliferative potential in vitro. Enriched tumor cell spheroids from the ascites of high‐grade serous OvCA patients, obtained using cell strainers, were highly tumorigenic in vivo and their metastatic spread pattern precisely resembled the tumor dissemination pattern found in the corresponding patients. Comparative transcriptome analyses from ascites‐derived tumor cell spheroids (n = 10) versus tumor samples from different metastatic sites (n = 30) revealed upregulation of genes involved in chemoresistance (TGM1, HSPAs, MT1s), cell adhesion and cell‐barrier integrity (PKP3, CLDNs, PPL), and the oxidative phosphorylation process. Mitochondrial markers (mass and membrane potential) showed a reduced mitochondrial function in tumoroids from tumor tissue compared with ascites‐derived tumor spheroids in flow cytometry analysis. Interestingly, response to OXPHOS inhibition by metformin and IACS010759 in tumor spheroids correlated with the extent of mitochondrial membrane potential measured by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. Our data contribute to a better understanding of the biology of ovarian cancer spheroids and identify the OXPHOS pathway as new potential treatment option in advanced ovarian cancer.
Investigation of absolute dose calibration accuracy for TomoTherapy using real water
Authors: Pang Tingtian , Yang Bo , Liu Xia , Castle James R. , Yu Lang , Liu Nan , Li Wenbo , Dong Tingting , Qiu Jie , Chen Quan
Published: June 2021

A systematic bias in TomoTherapy output calibration was reported by the Imaging and Radiation Oncology Core Houston (IROC‐H) after analyzing intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) credentialing results from hundreds of TomoTherapy units. Multiple theories were developed to explain this observation. One theory was that the use of a solid water “cheese” phantom instead of real water in the calibration measurement was the culprit. A phantom filled with distilled water was built to investigate whether our TomoTherapy was miscalibrated due to the use of a solid water phantom. A miscalibration of −1.47% was detected on our TomoTherapy unit. It is found that despite following the vendor's updated recommendation on computed tomography (CT) number to density calibration, the cheese phantom was still mapped to a density of 1.028 g/cm3, rather than the 1.01 g/cm3value reported in literature. When the density of the cheese phantom was modified to 1.01 g/cm3in the treatment planning system, the measurement also indicated that our TomoTherapy machine was miscalibrated by −1.52%, agreeing with the real water phantom findings. Our single‐institution finding showed that the cheese phantom density assignment can introduce greater than 1% errors in the TomoTherapy absolute dose calibration. It is recommended that the absolute dose calibration for TomoTherapy be performed either in real water or in the cheese phantom with the density in TPS overridden as 1.01 g/cm3.
Exploring the Role of Antinuclear Antibody Positivity in the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Health Outcomes of Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Paknikar Sujaytha S. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Davis John M. , Thanarajasingam Uma
Published: June 2021

Objective

The objective of this study was to describe differences in the clinical course of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who are antinuclear antibody (ANA)–positive compared with those who are ANA‐negative.

Methods

This was a retrospective population‐based cohort study of residents in Olmsted County, Minnesota, who first fulfilled 1987 American College of Rheumatology criteria for RA in 2009‐2014. Data were collected on first documentation of joint swelling. Data on rheumatoid factor or anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody testing and the ANA level were also collected. Comparisons between groups were performed by using χ2 and rank sum tests.

Results

In this cohort, 64% of patients were tested for ANA within ±90 days of RA criteria fulfillment. In the161 patients with ANA testing, 25% were ANA‐positive. Patients who were ANA‐positive were younger, female, and less likely to be current smokers. ANA positivity did not differ between patients with RA who were seropositive and seronegative. In seropositive patients who were ANA‐positive, there was an increased time to fulfillment of RA criteria, increased time to treatment with disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and increased likelihood of being treated with hydroxychloroquine as opposed to methotrexate. Other outcomes, including disease activity and mortality, did not differ significantly between groups.

Conclusion

In patients with RA, important differences exist between those who are ANA‐positive and ANA‐negative in terms of time to fulfillment of RA criteria and time to DMARD initiation as well as choice of initial pharmacotherapy. These findings could indicate a difference in clinical presentation or perception of patients with RA who are ANA‐positive. Further research is needed to study the long‐term outcomes of patients with RA who are ANA‐positive.
Uniform Magnesium Electrodeposition via Synergistic Coupling of Current Homogenization, Geometric Confinement, and Chemisorption Effect
Authors: Song Zihao , Zhang Zhonghua , Du Aobing , Dong Shanmu , Li Guicun , Cui Guanglei
Published: June 2021

Unevenly distributed magnesium (Mg) electrodeposits have emerged as a major obstacle for Mg‐metal batteries. A comprehensive design matrix is reported for 3D magnesiophilic hosts, which regulate the uniform Mg electrodeposition through a synergistic coupling of homogenizing current distribution, geometric confinement, and chemisorptive interaction. Vertically aligned nitrogen‐ and oxygen‐doped carbon nanofiber arrays on carbon cloth (denoted as “VNCA@C”) are developed as a proof of concept. The evenly arranged short nanoarray architecture helps to homogenize the surface current density and the microchannels built in this 3D host allow the preferential nucleation of Mg due to their geometrical confinement effect. Besides, the nitrogen‐/oxygen‐doped carbon species exhibit strong chemisorptive interaction toward Mg atoms, providing preferential nucleation sites as demonstrated by first‐principle calculation results. Electrochemical analysis reveals a peculiar yet highly reversible microchannel‐filling growth behavior of Mg metals, which empowers the delicately designed VNCA@C host with the ability to deliver a reduced nucleation overpotential of 429 mV at 10.0 mA cm−2 and an elongated Mg plating/stripping cycle life (110 cycles) under high current density of 10.0 mA cm−2. The proposed design matrix can be extended to other metal anodes (such as lithium and zinc) for high‐energy‐density batteries.
An Efficient Narrowband Near‐Infrared at 1040 nm Organic Photodetector Realized by Intermolecular Charge Transfer Mediated Coupling Based on a Squaraine Dye
Authors: Kim Jin Hong , Liess Andreas , Stolte Matthias , Krause Ana‐Maria , Stepanenko Vladimir , Zhong Chuwei , Bialas David , Spano Frank , Würthner Frank
Published: June 2021

A highly sensitive short‐wave infrared (SWIR, λ > 1000 nm) organic photodiode (OPD) is described based on a well‐organized nanocrystalline bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) active layer composed of a dicyanovinyl‐functionalized squaraine dye (SQ‐H) donor material in combination with PC61BM. Through thermal annealing, dipolar SQ‐H chromophores self‐assemble in a nanoscale structure with intermolecular charge transfer mediated coupling, resulting in a redshifted and narrow absorption band at 1040 nm as well as enhanced charge carrier mobility. The optimized OPD exhibits an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 12.3% and a full‐width at half‐maximum of only 85 nm (815 cm−1) at 1050 nm under 0 V, which is the first efficient SWIR OPD based on J‐type aggregates. Photoplethysmography application for heart‐rate monitoring is successfully demonstrated on flexible substrates without applying reverse bias, indicating the potential of OPDs based on short‐range coupled dye aggregates for low‐power operating wearable applications.
Tough‐Hydrogel Reinforced Low‐Tortuosity Conductive Networks for Stretchable and High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Hua Mutian , Wu Shuwang , Jin Yin , Zhao Yusen , Yao Bowen , He Ximin
Published: June 2021

All‐solid‐state supercapacitors are seeing emerging applications in flexible and stretchable electronics. Supercapacitors with high capacitance, high power density, simple form factor, and good mechanical robustness are highly desired, which demands electrode materials with high surface area, high mass loading, good conductivity, larger thickness, low tortuosity, and high toughness. However, it has been challenging to simultaneously realize them in a single material. By compositing a superficial layer of tough hydrogel on conductive and low tortuous foams, a thick capacitor electrode with large capacitance (5.25 F cm‐2), high power density (41.28 mW cm‐2), and good mechanical robustness (ε = 140%, Γ = 1000 J m‐2) is achieved. The tough hydrogel serves as both a load‐bearing layer to maintain structural integrity during deformation and a permeable binder to allow interaction between the conductive electrode and electrolyte. It is shown that the tough hydrogel reinforcement is beneficial for both electrical and mechanical stability. With a simple design and facile fabrication, this strategy is generalizable for various conductive materials.
The BIN1 rs744373 Alzheimer's disease risk SNP is associated with faster Aβ‐associated tau accumulation and cognitive decline
Authors: Franzmeier Nicolai , Ossenkoppele Rik , Brendel Matthias , Rubinski Anna , Smith Ruben , Kumar Atul , Mattsson‐Carlgren Niklas , Strandberg Olof , Duering Marco , Buerger Katharina , Dichgans Martin , Hansson Oskar , Ewers Michael ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI)* and the Swedish BioFINDER study
Published: June 2021

Introduction

The BIN1 rs744373 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is a key genetic risk locus for Alzheimer's disease (AD) associated with tau pathology. Because tau typically accumulates in response to amyloid beta (Aβ), we tested whether BIN1 rs744373 accelerates Aβ‐related tau accumulation.

Methods

We included two samples (Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative [ADNI], n = 153; Biomarkers for Identifying Neurodegenerative Disorders Early and Reliably [BioFINDER], n = 63) with longitudinal 18F‐Flortaucipir positron emission tomography (PET), Aβ biomarkers, and longitudinal cognitive assessments. We assessed whether BIN1 rs744373 was associated with faster tau‐PET accumulation at a given level of Aβ and whether faster BIN1 rs744373‐associated tau‐PET accumulation mediated cognitive decline.

Results

BIN1 rs744373 risk‐allele carriers showed faster global tau‐PET accumulation (ADNI/BioFINDER, P < .001/P < .001). We found significant Aβ by rs744373 interactions on global tau‐PET change (ADNI: β/standard error [SE] = 0.42/0.14, P = 0.002; BioFINDER: β/SE = –0.35/0.15, P = .021), BIN1 risk‐allele carriers showed accelerated tau‐PET accumulation at higher Aβ levels. In ADNI, rs744373 effects on cognitive decline were mediated by faster global tau‐PET accumulation (β/SE = 0.20/0.07, P = .005).

Discussion

BIN1‐associated AD risk is potentially driven by accelerated tau accumulation in the face of Aβ.
Graphene oxide‐containing isocyanate‐based polyimide foams: Enhanced thermal stability and flame retardancy
Authors: Çakir Mustafa , Kılıç Volkan , Boztoprak Yalçın , Özmen Fadime Karaer
Published: June 2021

Isocyanate‐based graphene oxide‐containing polyimide foams were synthesized by a semi‐prepolymer method. In this method, while the first solution containing pre‐polymer was derived from pyromellitic dianhydride and excess polymethylene polyphenylene isocyanate (PM200), the second solution contains dianhydride derivatives, water, catalysts, surfactants, and graphene oxide. PIFs were prepared with 0%, 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, and 1% graphene oxide by weight, respectively. PIFs exhibited a minimum side reaction and urea generation was not seen for all PIFs instead of imide bonding. The addition of graphene oxide (GO) leads to a more close‐packed structure. Therefore, crosslinking density and thermal stability of graphene oxide‐containing polyimide foams increased. Upon the addition of 1% GO, almost seven times higher compression strength was obtained compared to neat PIFs. Also, LOI values supported the theory that thermally stable and flame retardant PIFs can be synthesized via the isocyanate‐based process with GO.
Simultaneous determination of 3‐n‐butylphthalide and its metabolite 10‐hydroxy‐butylphthalide in rat plasma using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Lin Li‐Shu , Lin Li‐Ling , Lin Tao , Wu Yan‐An
Published: June 2021

3‐n‐Butylphthalide (NBP) is a potent drug for the treatment of ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to develop a simple and sensitive ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometric (UPLC–MS/MS) method for the simultaneous determination of NBP and its circulating metabolite 10‐hydroxy‐NBP in rat plasma using senkyunolide I as the internal standard (IS). The analytes and IS were extracted from the plasma by ethyl acetate–ethyl ether (1:5, v/v) and then separated on an ACQUITY BEH C18 column (2.1 × 50 mm, 1.7 μm). The mobile phase consisted of water containing 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile containing 0.1% formic acid, which was delivered at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min with gradient elution. MS detection was achieved under selective reaction monitoring mode with precursor‐to‐product transitions at m/z 191.1 > 145.1 for NBP, m/z 207.1 > 171.1 for 10‐hydroxy‐NBP and m/z 207.1 > 161.1 for IS, respectively. The assay showed excellent linearity over the concentration range of 0.5–1000 ng/mL for both analytes, with correlation coefficient greater than 0.998. The other validation parameters were all within the required limits. The validated UPLC–MS/MS method has been further applied to the pharmacokinetic study of NBP and 10‐hydroxy‐NBP in rats after they were orally administered with NBP (30 mg/kg).
Consider ramifications of NCAA's new transfer rules
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: June 2021

Until recently, in college football, men's and women's basketball, baseball, and men's ice hockey, transferring student‐athletes had to sit out of competition for a year, unless they were able to obtain a waiver from the NCAA. But this all changed when the NCAA Division I Board of Directors recently approved a change to the NCAA transfer rules that now allows student‐athletes to have immediate eligibility when they transfer to a different institution.
Lessons in Organic Fluorescent Probe Discovery
Authors: Wagh Sachin B. , Maslivetc Vladimir A. , La Clair James J. , Kornienko Alexander
Published: June 2021

Fluorescent probes have gained profound use in biotechnology, drug discovery, medical diagnostics, molecular and cell biology. The development of methods for the translation of fluorophores into fluorescent probes continues to be a robust field for medicinal chemists and chemical biologists, alike. Access to new experimental designs has enabled molecular diversification and led to the identification of new approaches to probe discovery. This review provides a synopsis of the recent lessons in modern fluorescent probe discovery.
Bühne frei für das „Who is who” der Prozessindustrie
Authors: Rübberdt Kathrin
Published: June 2021

Sich über eine neue Pumpe informieren? Mit CEOs aus aller Welt virtuell über die Wasserstoffwirtschaft diskutieren? Oder einen Forschungsvortrag über die Simulation von Fluiden hören? All das und noch viel mehr bietet die ACHEMA Pulse mit ihrem Live‐Progr
Erkenntnis aus dem Abwasser
Authors: Böhringer Christine
Published: June 2021

Die Europäische Union empfiehlt ihren Mitgliedsstaaten seit kurzem ein Abwassermonitoring als Corona‐Frühwarnsystem. Bislang war die Technik dafür noch nicht ausgereift. Gemeinsam mit seinem Tochterunternehmen Analytik Jena hat Endress+Hauser nun ein Nach
Zuverlässigkeit an einem Kabel
Authors: Greber Oleg
Published: June 2021

Überaus zuverlässig, einfach zu installieren und in nahezu allen Flüssigkeiten einsetzbar – die „Popularität‟ der Füllstandsmessung mit Pegelsonden ist leicht nachzuvollziehen. Die Messmethode auf Basis des hydrostatischen Drucks eignet sich für die unter
Ohne Aufsicht Dampf im Kessel
Authors: Mahne Dominik
Published: June 2021

Moderne Dampfkesselanlagen sollen möglichst lange im Dauerbetrieb ohne Beaufsichtigung laufen können. Die zuverlässige, automatische Überwachung aller kritischen Stellen und Parameter wie Füllstand oder Leitfähigkeit des Kesselwassers gewährleistet das SP
Einfach sicher und sicher einfacher
Authors: Rigor Lorena
Published: June 2021

Das Ventex Explosionsschutzventil verfügt in der neuen Generation in sämtlichen Nennweiten über eine Strömungsgeschwindigkeit von mindestens 30 m/s und gewährleistet damit ein noch höheres Maß an Prozesssicherheit. Das Ventil kann unmittelbar vor oder na
The impact of isothermal flow assumption on accuracy of pressure transient analysis results
Authors: Dastkhan Yaghoub , Kazemi Alireza
Published: June 2021

Adiabatic expansion and viscous dissipation of fluid flow in porous media result in considerable heating or cooling of hydrocarbon fluids when pressure gradients are very large. Traditionally, fluid flow in porous media has been assumed isothermal in hydrocarbon reservoirs. While this assumption helps with simplifying the physics of fluid flow by neglecting the thermal effects, it imposes a dominant impact on fluid properties in situations where flow undergoes fast paced and abrupt changes in flow rate and or pressure. The analytical solutions of fluid flow for pressure transient analysis rely on the isothermal flow assumption. Since the variations of fluid properties are not accounted for in temperature fluctuations, there is an inherent error in standard methods of well test analysis. In this paper, the errors in pressure transient analysis as a consequence of the assumption of isothermal fluid flow are investigated. The magnitude of error is quantified as a function of flow rate and pressure drop. Error analysis shows that at higher flow rates, the thermal impacts are elevated such that the application of isothermal flow models becomes erroneous and invalid. It can be shown that oil well tests are more influenced by thermal effects compared to gas well tests in conventional dry gas reservoirs. This study highlights an important thermal impact that is often neglected and should be considered in the design, execution, and analysis stages of well testing. Also, it suggests that isothermal analytical models should be avoided for well test analysis with large flow rates.
Inhibition of calcium sulphate hemihydrate crystallization under simulated conditions of phosphoric acid evaporation
Authors: Tanquero Juan G. , Abdel‐Aal El‐Sayed A. , Farinato Raymond S. , El‐Shall Hassan , Moudgil Brij M.
Published: June 2021

Nucleation and crystal growth of CaSO4 ∙ 0.5H2O (calcium sulphate hemihydrate) was studied under conditions simulating scale formation in phosphoric acid production evaporators. Phosphoric acid, calcium hydrogen phosphate, and sulphuric acid were mixed at 88°C. The induction time was determined using a turbidimeter across a range of supersaturation from 1.3–3.5. Crystallization equations, taking as input the induction time and supersaturation, were used to calculate surface energy, nucleation rate, free energy, and the critical nucleus radius of CaSO4 ∙ 0.5H2O with and without the addition of 75 mg/L of various scale inhibitors: polyacrylic acid (PAA) 8000 g/mol, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) <100 000 g/mol, or polyethyleneimine (PEI) 60 000 g/mol. The results suggest that PEI is capable of inhibiting crystal growth through the impediment of crystal nucleation.
Expanded Graphite Inserted by Few Red Phosphorus for Improved Sodium Storage at Room Temperature and Low Temperatures
Authors: Zhou Li‐Feng , Gong He , Liu Li‐Ying , Wang Yi‐Song , Du Tao
Published: June 2021

Sodium‐ion batteries are experiencing a rapid development as one of the most promising candidates to replace lithium‐ion batteries. Carbonaceous materials attract widespread attention because of the successful commercialization. Among them, expanded graphite with a long‐range‐ordered layered structure and a high specific surface area gain further exploration and modification as potential materials. Expanded graphite inserted by few red phosphorus was prepared by oxidation/reduction process and vapor deposition process and exhibited a high reversible specific capacity of 418 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 and 296 mAh g−1 with the retention of 83.3% after 1000 cycles at the current density of 500 mA g−1 at room temperature. At −10 °C, a reversible capacity of 228 mAh g−1 with a retention of nearly 100% after 100 cycles was obtained. At a low temperature of −50 °C, a specific capacity of more than 50 mAh g−1 remains, indicating actual availability under extreme cold conditions.
Patients' opinion on the use of 2 generations of power‐driven water flossers and their impact on gingival inflammation
Authors: Bertl Kristina , Edlund Johansson Pia , Stavropoulos Andreas
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To assess patients' opinion on the use of 2 generations of power‐driven water flossers and their impact on gingival inflammation.

Material & Methods

In the present prospective cohort study 24 periodontitis patients under regular supportive periodontal therapy used daily 2 generations of a power‐driven water flosser (Sonicare AirFloss [SAF] and Sonicare AirFloss Ultra [SAFU]) for 12 weeks each. Patients were instructed to position the nozzle interproximally from the buccal aspect at each interproximal space. Patients' opinion was assessed by a questionnaire and interproximal bleeding on probing (BoP) was recorded.

Results

Overall satisfaction with SAF/SAFU was rated high, by about 80% of the patients. About 66% of the patients preferred SAF/SAFU compared to their previous interdental cleaning device and indicated that they would continue using SAF/SAFU after the study; none of the patients reported any discomfort or pain. Compared to only tooth brushing, daily use of SAF/SAFU caused a significant reduction of interproximal BoP values, which were well maintained over 6 months; that is, BoP at interproximal buccal and oral sites (pooled), as well as at interproximal buccal and oral sites separately, was proportionately reduced by 29.1%, 41.2%, and 24.8%, respectively (pooled: p = 0.027; buccal sites: p = 0.030; oral sites: p = 0.030).

Conclusion

Patients were very fond of the power‐driven water flossers tested herein, and daily use of the devices for 6 months (i.e., each device was used for 3 months) resulted in a significant reduction of gingival inflammation interproximally.
Inhibition of MAGL activates the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway to attenuate glucocorticoid‐induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Yang Ning , Sun Houyi , Xue Yi , Zhang Weicheng , Wang Hongzhi , Tao Huaqiang , Liang Xiaolong , Li Meng , Xu Yaozeng , Chen Liang , Zhang Liang , Huang Lixin , Geng Dechun
Published: June 2021

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are used in treating viral infections, acute spinal cord injury, autoimmune diseases, and shock. Several patients develop GC‐induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). However, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying GC‐induced ONFH remain poorly understood. GC‐directed bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) fate is an important factor that determines GC‐induced ONFH. At high concentrations, GCs induce BMSC apoptosis by promoting oxidative stress. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that relieve GC‐induced oxidative stress in BMSCs, which would be vital for treating ONFH. The endocannabinoid system regulates oxidative stress in multiple organs. Here, we found that monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), a key molecule in the endocannabinoid system, was significantly upregulated during GC treatment in osteoblasts both in vitro and in vivo. MAGL expression was positively correlated with expression of the NADPH oxidase family and apoptosis‐related proteins. Functional analysis showed that MAGL inhibition markedly reduced oxidative stress and partially rescued BMSC apoptosis. Additionally, in vivo studies indicated that MAGL inhibition effectively attenuated GC‐induced ONFH. Pathway analysis showed that MAGL inhibition regulated oxidative stress in BMSCs via the Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. The expression of Nrf2, a major regulator of intracellular antioxidants, was upregulated by inhibiting MAGL. Nrf2 activation can mimic the effect of MAGL inhibition and significantly reduce GC‐induced oxidative damage in BMSCs. The beneficial effects of MAGL inhibition were attenuated after the blockade of the Keap1/Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathway. Notably, pharmacological blockade of MAGL conferred femoral head protection in GC‐induced ONFH, even after oxidative stress responses were initiated. Therefore, MAGL may represent a novel target for the prevention and treatment of GC‐induced ONFH.
Folate receptor α increases chemotherapy resistance through stabilizing MDM2 in cooperation with PHB2 that is overcome by MORAb‐202 in gastric cancer
Authors: Sakai Hitomi , Kawakami Hisato , Teramura Takeshi , Onodera Yuta , Somers Elizabeth , Furuuchi Keiji , Uenaka Toshimitsu , Kato Ryoji , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: June 2021

Background

The main function of folate receptor α (FOLRα) has been considered to mediate intracellular folate uptake and induce tumor cell proliferation. Given the broad spectrum of expression among malignant tumors, including gastric cancer (GC) but not in normal tissue, FOLRα represents an attractive target for tumor‐selective drug delivery. However, the efficacy of anti‐FOLRα monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) has not been proved so far, with the reason for this failure remaining unclear, raising the need for a better understanding of FOLRα function.

Methods

The distribution of FOLRα in GC cells was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The impacts of FOLRα expression on the survival of GC patients and GC cell lines were examined with the Gene Expression Omnibus database and by siRNA of FOLRα. RNA‐sequencing and Microarray analysis was conducted to identify the function of FOLRα. Proteins that interact with FOLRα were identified with shotgun LC‐MS/MS. The antitumor efficacy of the anti‐FOLRα mAb farletuzumab as well as the antibody‐drug conjugate (ADC) consists of the farletuzumab and the tublin‐depolymerizing agent eribulin (MORAb‐202) was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo.

Results

FOLRα was detected both at the cell membrane and in the cytoplasm. Shorter overall survival was associated with FOLRα expression in GC patients, whereas reduction of FOLRα attenuated cell proliferation without inducing cell death in GC cell lines. Transcriptomic and proteomic examinations revealed that the FOLRα‐expressing cancer cells possess a mechanism of chemotherapy resistance supported by MDM2, and FOLRα indirectly regulates it through a chaperone protein prohibitin2 (PHB2). Although reduction of FOLRα brought about vulnerability for oxaliplatin by diminishing MDM2 expression, farletuzumab did not suppress the MDM2‐mediated chemoresistance and cell proliferation in GC cells. On the other hand, MORAb‐202 showed significant antitumor efficacy.

Conclusions

The ADC could be a more reasonable choice than mAb as a targeting agent for the FOLRα‐expressing tumor.
The impact of minimum wage increases on cigarette smoking
Authors: Huang Chen , Liu Feng , You Shijun
Published: June 2021

Recent debate about raising federal minimum wage to $15 per hour receives substantial public attention. Yet the minimum wage literature has been focusing on the labor market outcomes, with the health implications rarely being discussed. This paper investigates the impact of minimum wage increases on multiple dimensions of cigarette smoking behaviors for the low‐skilled population using the Current Population Survey‐Tobacco Use Supplement over a long time period (1998–2015). Results show that a $1 increase in the minimum wage raises the prevalence of smoking by about 2.3% and reduces cessation by about 13.7% among the low‐skilled workers. With further examinations, we find evidence of an income effect as one potential mechanism that leads to more smoking. The impacts on all low‐skilled adults, however, are somewhat smaller, which are most likely driven by the null effects among those who are out of the labor force. We additionally conduct a series of sensitivity tests and confirm the robustness of these results.
A meta‐analysis on employee perceptions of human resource strength: Examining the mediating versus moderating hypotheses
Authors: Bednall Timothy C. , Sanders Karin , Yang Huadong
Published: June 2021

Human resource (HR) strength research has substantially informed an understanding of the relationship between HR practices and employee‐level outcomes. However, a key unresolved issue is whether employee perceptions of HR strength act as a mediator or a moderator in the relationship between HR practices and these outcomes. A meta‐analysis of 42 studies (comprising 65 samples and 29,444 unique participants) was conducted to address this issue. Results support the mediating hypothesis for all five employee outcomes: employee reactions, proactive behavior, burnout, performance, and perceived organizational effectiveness. Conversely, the moderating hypothesis was only supported for employee performance. In addition, we examined five study characteristics (the operationalization of perceived HR strength, research study design, industry, sampling strategy, and publication status) as moderators. Using this analysis, we test the robustness of our main results and identify sources of heterogeneity in the results across studies. The results show that the mediating hypothesis still holds under different study designs and contexts. Theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.
Selective aqueous‐phase hydrogenation of furfural to cyclopentanol over Ni‐based catalyst under mild conditions
Authors: Chen Changzhou , Zhou Minghao , Jiang Jianchun
Published: June 2021

A series of carbon nanotube (CNT)‐supported Ni‐based catalysts were prepared through a simple impregnation method. The synthesized Ni‐based bimetallic catalysts exhibited much smaller particle size and better dispersion than monometallic Ni/CNT catalyst. Owing to the synergistic effect of Ni with Mo, the material was especially active to hydrogenation of biomass derivatives in aqueous medium. Promotional effect was observed in NiMo/CNT catalyst during hydrogenation of furfural to fine chemicals, including cyclopentanone/cyclopentanol, which is of profound practical values for processing biomass degradation and may be applied in the food and biomass refining industry.
Functional Reorganizations Outside the Sensorimotor Regions Following Complete Thoracolumbar Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Zheng Weimin , Wang Ling , Chen Qian , Li Xuejing , Chen Xin , Qin Wen , Li Kuncheng , Lu Jie , Chen Nan
Published: June 2021

Background

Studies have shown that loss of sensorimotor function in spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to brain functional reorganization, which may play important roles in motor function recovery. However, the specific functional changes following SCI are still poorly understood.

Purpose

To investigate whether there are functional reorganizations outside the sensorimotor regions after complete thoracolumbar SCI (CTSCI), and how these reorganizations are associated with clinical manifestations.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Eighteen CTSCI patients (28–67 years of age; 16 men) and 18 age‐, gender‐matched healthy controls (HCs) (27–64 years of age; 16 men).

Field Strength/Sequence

Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (RS‐fMRI) using echo‐planar‐imaging (EPI) sequence at 3.0 T.

Assessment

Data preprocessing was performed using Data Processing Assistant for Resting‐State fMRI (DPARSF). Amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations (ALFF) was used to characterize regional neural function, and seed‐based functional connectivity (FC) was used to evaluate the functional integration of the brain network.

Statistical Tests

Two‐sample t‐tests were used for ALFF and FC measures (the data conform to the normal distribution), partial correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between clinical and imaging indicators, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to search for sensitive imaging indicators.

Results

Compared with HCs, CTSCI patients showed decreased ALFF in right lingual gyrus (LG), increased ALFF in right middle frontal gyrus (MFG), and decreased FC between the right LG and Vermis_3 (cluster‐level FWE correction with P < 0.05). Subsequent correlation analyses revealed that decreased FC between the right LG and Vermis_3 positively correlated with the visual analog scale (VAS) (P = 0.043, r = 0.443). Finally, the ROC analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of FC value between right LG and Vermis3 was 0.881.

Data Conclusion

These findings suggest a possible theoretical basis of the mechanism of visual‐, emotion‐, and cognition‐related techniques in rehabilitation training for CTSCI.
Electrical behavior of n‐GaAs based Schottky diode for different contacts: Temperature dependence of current‐voltage
Authors: Helal Hicham , Benamara Zineb , Arbia Marwa Ben , Rabehi Abdelaziz , Chaouche Abdallah Chabane , Maaref Hassen
Published: June 2021

We report on the electrical behavior of Metal/n‐GaAs Schottky structure, using Silvaco‐Atlas software. To study the effect of metal work function ϕm on the performance of various parameters such as saturation current Is, ideality factor n, and barrier height ϕb, we examine a large number of contact materials having different ϕm at room temperature (300 K). The results show a significant dependence between ϕm and the electrical parameters. It is observed that the smaller values of the threshold voltage Vi are obtained for low ϕm. We also find that metals within ϕm [4.42–5.31] eV give lower n. A linear increase of the barrier height ϕb is mentioned for ϕm [4.33–5.37] which is in accordance with the theoretical relationship. In addition, the selection of four different metal contact (Cu, Au, Pt, and Ni) is devoted to simulate the Metal/n‐GaAs Schottky structure in a wide temperature range of (100–400 K). This allows us to extract and discuss the influence of temperature on the performance of our proposed device.
ACSA‐2 and GLAST classify subpopulations of multipotent and glial‐restricted cerebellar precursors
Authors: Kantzer Christina Geraldine , Parmigiani Elena , Cerrato Valentina , Tomiuk Stefan , Knauel Michail , Jungblut Melanie , Buffo Annalisa , Bosio Andreas
Published: June 2021

The formation of the cerebellum is highly coordinated to obtain its characteristic morphology and all cerebellar cell types. During mouse postnatal development, cerebellar progenitors with astroglial‐like characteristics generate mainly astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. However, a subset of astroglial‐like progenitors found in the prospective white matter (PWM) produces astroglia and interneurons. Characterizing these cerebellar astroglia‐like progenitors and distinguishing their developmental fates is still elusive. Here, we reveal that astrocyte cell surface antigen‐2 (ACSA‐2), lately identified as ATPase, Na+/K+ transporting, beta 2 polypeptide, is expressed by glial precursors throughout postnatal cerebellar development. In contrast to common astrocyte markers, ACSA‐2 appears on PWM cells but is absent on Bergmann glia (BG) precursors. In the adult cerebellum, ACSA‐2 is broadly expressed extending to velate astrocytes in the granular layer, white matter astrocytes, and to a lesser extent to BG. Cell transplantation and transcriptomic analysis revealed that marker staining discriminates two postnatal progenitor pools. One subset is defined by the co‐expression of ACSA‐2 and GLAST and the expression of markers typical of parenchymal astrocytes. These are PWM precursors that are exclusively gliogenic. They produce predominantly white matter and granular layer astrocytes. Another subset is constituted by GLAST positive/ACSA‐2 negative precursors that express neurogenic and BG‐like progenitor genes. This population displays multipotency and gives rise to interneurons besides all glial types, including BG. In conclusion, this work reports about ACSA‐2, a marker that in combination with GLAST enables for the discrimination and isolation of multipotent and glia‐committed progenitors, which generate different types of cerebellar astrocytes.
The impact of talent management practices on employee turnover and retention intentions
Authors: Kumar Sourabh
Published: June 2021

In a continuously changing business
environment, it is the responsibility of the HR department in organizations to
secure and retain the talent necessary for productivity and development. IT sector is one of the most growing sectors and facing the challenge of
employee turnover at a high rate. The objective of the study was to investigate
the contribution of talent management practices in employee retention. A
descriptive study was conducted to find the impact of talent
management strategies on employee retention. A multiple regression model was
developed to analyze the relationship between the variable of talent management
and employee retention. It was found that employees prefer to stay in an
organization that provides the opportunity to develop and grow on the career
ladder also the compensation plans are very helpful in attract and retain the
employees. The study will be useful for planning, drafting, and executing
various strategies to retain the employee. The study can be generalized to
other sectors and there is the scope of future research with the other aspects
of the workforce e.g. work‐life balance, employee engagement in connection with
employee retention.

​
Ultrasonographic evaluation of the titanium‐prepared platelet‐rich fibrin effect in free gingival graft procedures
Authors: Koca‐Ünsal Revan Birke , Ünsal Gürkan , Kasnak Gökhan , Fıratlı Yiğit , Özcan İlknur , Orhan Kaan , Fıratlı Erhan
Published: June 2021

Background

Complications after free gingival graft (FGG) operations are generally related to the donor site. The titanium‐prepared, platelet‐rich fibrin (T‐PRF) placement in the donor site accelerate the wound healing and prevent postoperative complications such as pain and hemorrhage. We aim to evaluate the effect of T‐PRF regarding vascularization and tissue thickness and to report the advantages of the ultrasonography (US) in FGG.

Methods

Ten individuals were divided into two groups as T‐PRF and control. While the T‐PRF membrane was placed at the donor site in the T‐PRF group, a gelatin sponge was placed in the control group. All patients underwent US examination in terms of vascularization and tissue thickness of left and right donor sites. The correlation between the right and left donor sites was analyzed with the Pearson correlation test. Tissue thicknesses and pulsatility index (PI) were analyzed with independent samples t‐test. The results were evaluated statistically at the P <0.05 significance level.

Results

The T‐PRF group showed increased vascularity which can be interpreted to improve healing in soft tissue. However, not a difference, but a positively very high correlation was observed between the right and left tissue thicknesses (P = 0,00; r = +0902).

Conclusions

Evaluation of tissue thickness and vascularization density of donor sites with US not only increases clinical success rate but also reduces the risk of complications during surgery and postoperative pain in FGG. Studies evaluating T‐PRF membrane as palatal dressing after FGG are only clinical, however, the efficiency of T‐PRF was evaluated radiologically in this study for the first time.
Raman spectra of the Markovka chondrite (H4)
Authors: Voropaev Sergey , Böttger Ute , Pavlov Sergey G. , Hanke Franziska , Petukhov Dmitri
Published: June 2021

Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy methods were used to study the fragment of the Markovka (H4 chondrite) meteorite. A characteristic set of silicate minerals (olivine and pyroxene), oxides and hydroxides (maghemite and goethite), troilite, and carbonates (aragonite) was determined. The structural features revealed by Raman spectroscopy allow us to draw important conclusions on thermal history of the parent body including both the temperature experienced by the rock on the parent body and their cooling rate as well as the constraints on the size of the parent body and the Mg composition of the assumed fluid.
Tourism‐led growth hypothesis: International tourism versus domestic tourism‐Evidence from China
Authors: Lee Chew Ging
Published: June 2021

Tourism‐led growth hypothesis is widely studied from the international tourism perspective, but the number of studies related to domestic tourism is limited. This study provides an empirical investigation on the impacts of both international and domestic tourism on the economic growth of China, with human capital as a control variable. This study defines the presence of tourism‐led growth as the existence of a cointegrating relationship between international/domestic tourism and national income when national income is the dependent variable. The findings show that international tourism does not influence economic growth, but domestic tourism has an increasing positive impact on economic growth.
Fifty years of nucleophilic substitution in the gas phase
Authors: Wester Roland
Published: June 2021

Bimolecular nucleophilic substitution () reactions have become a model system for the investigation of structure–reactivity relationships, stereochemistry, solvent influences, and detailed atomistic dynamics. In this review, the progress during five decades of experimental and theoretical research on gas phase reactions is discussed. Many advancements of the employed methods have led to a tremendous increase in our understanding of the properties and the dynamics of these reactions. For reactions involving six atoms a quantitative agreement of the differential reactive scattering cross sections has already been achieved, in the future it is expected that even larger polyatomic reactions systems become tractable. Furthermore, studies with higher precision, improved reactant control, and a more accurate theoretical treatment of quantum effects are envisioned.