bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Displacement feedback control of actuators for structural testing using image processing and analysis
Authors: Chen Pei‐Ching , Yang Yuan‐Sen , Cheng Yu‐Chen
Published: November 2021

External displacement control (EDC) is essential to a structural test in which a servo‐hydraulic actuator is connected to the specimen through loading fixtures, steel plates, and bolts in order to ensure that the specimen deformation meets the predefined displacement profile accurately. However, external displacement transducers for actuator feedback control could be detached from the specimen due to concrete spalling or steel buckling, leading to potential risks associated with actuator control stability and safety. In this study, image‐based displacement feedback control of actuators for structural testing is proposed and validated, which provides a noncontact approach to measure specimen deformation. In the proposed control scheme, a high‐speed camera is used to capture the images of a feature on the specimen during the test. The specimen deformation is calculated by using the captured images through online image processing and analysis. The actuator controller utilizes the calculated displacement as the feedback signal for displacement control. Finally, the proposed control scheme is validated in the laboratory. Two types of loading protocols are adopted for experimental validation including quasi‐static cyclic testing and dynamic loading testing. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed image‐based displacement feedback control of the actuator completes quasi‐static cyclic tests and dynamic loading tests successfully and stably with satisfactory displacement tracking performance. The proposed method provides an alternative for EDC in a structural test.
Fluvial and coastal landform changes in the Aceh River delta (northern Sumatra) during the century leading to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami
Authors: Chapkanski Stoil , Brocard Gilles , Lavigne Franck , Tricot Camille , Meilianda Ella , Ismail Nazli , Majewski Jedrzej , Goiran Jean‐Philippe , Alfian Dedy , Daly Patrick , Horton Benjamin , Switzer Adam , Degroot Veronique , Steuer Annika , Siemon Bernhard , Cavero Julien , Virmoux Clement , Darusman Darusman
Published: November 2021

River deltas are strongly affected by demographic growth and by the intensification of land use. The migration of deltaic coastlines is often rapid, threatening urban settlements, coastal farming, and coastal biotopes. Some deltas benefit from centuries of monitoring, such that the evolution of their coastline is well documented. For most deltas, however, such long records do not exist. The study of their geomorphological evolution can benefit from overlapping maps drafted over time, combined with aerial photographs and satellite images, to track the evolution of fluvial and coastal landforms. Both fluvial and coastal landforms are sensitive to variations in water and sediment supply, such that covariations in the evolution of these landforms, or the lack thereof, provide clues on the contribution of water and sediment supply to delta evolution. We document the evolution of river channels and coastlines in the delta of the Aceh River in northwest Sumatra, by overlying maps, ortho‐rectified aerial photographs, and satellite images covering the past 130 years. We assess the accuracy of the overlays, and then use multivariate statistics to analyze the co‐evolution of fluvial and coastal landforms. We propose that a progressive decrease in sediment supply spurred river channel lengthening and narrowing, landward migration of the shoreline, and narrowing of beach ridges. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami generated an instantaneous retreat of the coastline that amounts to ∼53% of the coastal retreat from 1884 to 2019 ce. Post‐tsunami evolution is marked by an irreversible acceleration of previous trends. Beach ridges located up‐drift of rivers and tidal channel mouths are more sensitive to long‐term landward retreat and tsunamigenic erosion.
Performance of ionic liquid–based quasi‐solid‐state hybrid battery supercapacitor fabricated with porous carbon capacitive cathode and proton battery anode
Authors: Singh Manoj K. , Chaurasia Sujeet Kumar
Published: November 2021

The present paper reports preparation, characterization, and application of proton‐conducting ionic liquid–based gel polymer electrolyte (ILGPE) obtained by immobilizing liquid electrolyte solution (0.3M NH4Tf in EMIMTf) to the polymer PVdF‐HFP. These ILGPE offer excellent ionic conductivity ~1.30 × 10−2 S/cm at room temperature and used as separator membrane in the hybrid BatCap. DSC study confirms glass transitions and melting temperatures (Tg's and Tm's) of PVdF‐HFP/EMIMTF/NH4Tf decrease with increasing content of liquid electrolyte to the host polymer matrix PVdF‐HFP which, in turn, is responsible for increasing flexibility of membranes. Ionic transport number measurements (tion ~0.99, ~0.27) reveal that ions are the principal charge carriers in the present electrolyte system. The linear sweep voltammetry analysis shows the electrochemical stability window (ESW) of ILGPE film “PVdF‐HFP/EMIMTf/NH4Tf” is ~3.35 V. Two different hybrid BatCap cells are prepared with activated carbon and MWCNTs as a capacitive electrode (cathode) and ZnSO4·7H2O battery anode. The performance of the BatCaps is estimated using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge‐discharge techniques. The discharge capacity was observed ~2.4 and 17.2 mAh/g for Cell#1 and Cell#2, respectively, at the current load of 0.5 mA/cm2. After the initial fading (~20%), BatCap cells show stable performance up to 100 cycles.
Professor Kees van der Heijden: Commentary on Rowland and Spaniol (2021)
Authors: Bradfield Ronald M.
Published: November 2021

Working with Kees as his apprentice scenario planner, I have been fortunate to have participated in many scenario workshops, both on the Strathclyde MBA program and with organizations. Alongside these workshops, I am also very privileged to have been an assistant to Kees on a number of scenario projects with organizations in a range of countries. I have learned many things in the time spent with Kees, and consider his book, “Scenarios: The Art of Strategic Conversation” to be the definitive field guide to the art and craft of scenario planning, albeit there have been a plethora of books on the subject since. The objective of this commentary is to discuss from a practical perspective, three things I have learned from my years of experience with Kees which have proved useful in my scenario work with client organizations, namely the elicitation of client views and insights, the value of the “Business Idea” and the scenario development timescale
Flavonoid‐enriched extract from Millettia speciosa Champ prevents obesity by regulating thermogenesis and lipid metabolism in high‐fat diet–induced obese C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Wang Mao‐Yuan , Ma Wen‐Yu , Wang Qing‐Long , Yang Qing , Yan Xiao‐Xia , Tang Huan , Li Zhi‐Ying , Li Ying‐Ying , Feng Shi‐Xiu , Wang Zhu‐Nian
Published: November 2021

Millettia speciosa (M. speciosa) Champ is a medicinal and edible plant. The roots are rich in flavonoids, which possess multiple biological activities, including lipid‐lowering effects. This study aimed to explore the effect of flavonoid‐enriched extract from M. speciosa (FMS) on obesity. The UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS analysis and chromatographic analysis were adopted to identify flavonoid compounds in FMS. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed with a high‐fat diet for 3 months and were then treated with FMS (50 or 100 mg/kg/d) or Orlistat (10 mg kg−1 d−1) for another 8 weeks. A total of 35 flavonoids were identified in the extract of M. speciosa root. FMS reduced body weight gain, liver weight gain, white adipose tissue, lipid accumulation, and blood glucose. The levels of TG, ALT, AST, and inflammatory‐related adipokines (TNF‐α and IL‐6) in serum were also reduced by FMS. In addition, FMS promoted thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue and induced the activation of lipolysis, fatty acid oxidation, and oxidative phosphorylation in white adipose tissues. In summary, long‐term administration of FMS could ameliorate high‐fat diet–induced obesity by stimulating adipose thermogenesis and lipid metabolism.
Clusterin and Related Scoring Index as Potential Early Predictors of Response to Sorafenib in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Narahara Satoshi , Watanabe Takehisa , Nagaoka Katsuya , Fujimoto Nahoko , Furuta Yoki , Tanaka Kentaro , Tokunaga Takayuki , Kawasaki Takeshi , Yoshimaru Yoko , Setoyama Hiroko , Oniki Kentaro , Saruwatari Junji , Tateyama Masakuni , Naoe Hideaki , Tanaka Motohiko , Tanaka Yasuhito , Sasaki Yutaka
Published: November 2021

Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a highly lethal malignancy, although several systemic therapeutic options are available, including sorafenib (SFN), which has been one of the standard treatment agents for almost a decade. As early prediction of response to SFN remains challenging, biomarkers that enable early prediction using a clinically feasible method are needed. Here, we report that the serum secretory form of clusterin (sCLU) protein and its related predictive index are potential beneficial biomarkers for early prediction of SFN response. Using high‐throughput screening and subsequent multivariate analysis in the derivation cohort, we found that changes in the concentrations of CLU, vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM1), and α‐fetoprotein were significantly associated with response to SFN. Furthermore, we confirmed that an increase in CLU serum level 1 month after treatment initiation was significantly associated with shorter progression‐free survival. In addition, “NR‐index,” which comprises these proteins, was evaluated as a tool for accurately predicting the efficacy of SFN and confirmed in the validation cohort. We also established SFN‐resistant HepG2 cells (HepG2‐SR) and found that sCLU significantly increased in HepG2‐SR cells compared with normal HepG2 cells, and confirmed that HepG2‐SR cells treated with SFN were resistant to apoptosis. The mechanism underlying activation of sCLU expression in acquired SFN resistance involves aberrant signaling and expression of Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and a nutrient‐related transcription factor, sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP‐1c). Furthermore, the PI3K and mTOR inhibitor BEZ235 markedly decreased sCLU expression in HepG2‐SR cells. Conclusion: These results suggest that measurement of sCLU serum levels and the sCLU‐related NR‐index are promising clinical tools for the early prediction of SFN response in HCC. Additionally, sCLU‐overexpressing HCC might be susceptible to mTOR inhibition.
Economic valuation of suspended sediment and phosphorus filtration services by four different wetland types: A preliminary assessment for southern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Aziz Tariq , Van Cappellen Philippe
Published: November 2021

Wetlands are known for their water filtration (or purification) function. Although different wetland types differ in their filtration capacity, they are usually aggregated together in economic valuation studies. Here, we explicitly separate the valuation of the suspended sediment and phosphorus (P) filtration services of the four major wetland types—bogs, fens, marshes and swamps—found in southern Ontario, Canada. The areal extents of the four wetland types are derived from the Canadian Wetland Inventory (CWI) progress map, while the sediment accretion rate is used as the key variable regulating the suspended sediment and P filtration functions. Based on available literature data, we assess the relationship of the sediment accretion rate to wetland size. Because only weak positive correlations are found, we assign a mean (average) sediment accretion rate to each wetland type. The sediment accretion rates are combined with mean soil P concentrations to estimate Pretention rates by the wetlands. The replacement cost method is then applied to valuate the sediment and P filtration services. The unit values for both sediment and P retention decrease in the order: marshes > bogs ≈ swamps > fens. The total value of sediment plus phosphorus removal by all wetlands in southern Ontario amounts to $4.2 ± 2.9 billion per year, of which about 80% is accounted for by swamps. We further assess the costs of different options to offset the additional P loading generated in a hypothetical scenario whereby all wetlands are converted to agriculture. The results demonstrate that replacing the P filtration function of existing wetlands with conventional land management and water treatment solutions is not cost‐effective, hence reinforcing the importance of protecting existing wetlands.
Cutaneous reactions to COVID‐19 vaccine at the dermatology primary care
Authors: Burlando Martina , Herzum Astrid , Micalizzi Claudia , Cozzani Emanuele , Parodi Aurora
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines can cause adverse reactions, mainly from vaccine‐induced immune responses. Some of these may also involve the skin and worry unaware patients. A better understanding of such adverse reactions may reduce concerns and help promote the vaccination of large population groups.

Methods

All the reports of patients admitted to our Dermatology Primary Care, from March 2021 to June 2021, were retrospectively examined to collect descriptive data on skin reactions arising after COVID‐19 vaccination.

Results

Out of 200 vaccinated patients admitted to the Dermatology Primary Care, 21 (10.5%) referred cutaneous reactions with onset after vaccination. Only one patient required hospitalization for generalized bullous erythema multiforme, which occurred 48 h after the second vaccine dose. The other patients' cutaneous reactions to vaccination were of mild/moderate degree. Three patients presented exacerbation of their cutaneous diseases.

Conclusions

Cutaneous reactions observed in our sample were mostly mild or moderate. Awareness must be raised to recognize and treat eventual severe reactions. Future studies are needed to assess the incidence of cutaneous reactions following COVID‐19 vaccination.
Assessing hydrologic alterations due to reservoirs and intensified irrigation in a semi‐arid agricultural river basin using SWAT*
Authors: Jouma Nada , Dadaser‐Celik Filiz
Published: November 2021

Basins with hydrological modifications pose challenges in hydrological modelling, especially when there are limited data about basin characteristics. Models, however, are vital if we are to identify undisturbed hydrological conditions and evaluate the extent of modifications. In this study, we used SWAT to model the hydrological processes in a semi‐arid closed basin, where basin hydrology was heavily modified with reservoirs and irrigation canals and drains. Modelling was also challenging due to limited data about basin characteristics and irrigation management. We modelled the hydrological processes using topographic, land use/cover, soil and climate data. The auto‐irrigation tool in SWAT, which determines the timing and amount of irrigation based on the plant water stress factor, was used to represent irrigation. We successfully calibrated/validated the model for streamflow and reservoir storage and confirmed it further by analysing simulated water volumes in wetlands collecting drainage flows. We used the model to simulate the undisturbed hydrologic state and the effects of intensified irrigation. This study showed that SWAT can provide reasonable predictions of hydrological processes in agricultural basins where the natural flow regime is altered by man‐made structures. Simulations with the model revealed that the construction of reservoirs followed by land use changes and intensified irrigation have affected streamflows and downstream ecosystems significantly.
Quantitative analysis and degradation mechanisms of different protein degradation methods
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhang Dekun , Liu Hongtao , Chen Kai
Published: November 2021

The abrasive debris produced by wear test of artificial joints in vitro is encapsulated by proteins in serum lubricants, which hinder the characterization of debris analysis. One of the key issues of isolating wear debris from serum is degrading the proteins wrapping the wear debris. In this article, the proteins in calf serum were degraded by a strong alkali, a strong acid, and an enzyme. The residual concentration of proteins in calf serum was detected by UV absorption. Quantitative analysis of protein degradation and the protein degradation rate was proposed, following treatment with different degradation reagents and different incubation times. The results showed that when 10 mL of 25% volume calf serum was added with 40 mL of NaOH and incubated at 65°C for 24 h, the protein degradation rate reached a maximum of 95.52%. The protein degradation rate in the solution ranged from 31.86% to 71.64% when a different volume of 37% HCl was added and incubated at 60°C. The highest protein degradation rate was 94.98% in the protease degradation solution. When the protein degradation rate is less than 70%, the particles were coated by protein. When the protein degradation rate was more than 95%, there was no protein coating around the particles. The three protein degradation methods have different processes and protein degradation rates. A suitable method for protein degradation can be selected according to these practical applications.
Embelin: A novel XIAP inhibitor for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases
Authors: Devi Daimary Uzini , Girisa Sosmitha , Parama Dey , Verma Elika , Kumar Aviral , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B.
Published: November 2021

Chronic diseases are a serious health concern worldwide, especially in the elderly population. Most chronic diseases like cancer, cardiovascular ailments, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune diseases are caused due to the abnormal functioning of multiple signaling pathways that give rise to critical anomalies in the body. Although a lot of advanced therapies are available, these have failed to entirely cure the disease due to their less efficacy. Apart from this, they have been shown to manifest disturbing side effects which hamper the patient's quality of life to the extreme. Since the last few decades, extensive studies have been done on natural herbs due to their excellent medicinal benefits. Components present in natural herbs target multiple signaling pathways involved in diseases and therefore hold high potential in the prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases. Embelin, a benzoquinone, is one such agent isolated from Embelia ribes, which has shown excellent biological activities toward several chronic ailments by upregulating a number of antioxidant enzymes (e.g., SOD, CAT, GSH, etc.), inhibiting anti‐apoptotic genes (e.g., TRAIL, XIAP, survivin, etc.), modulating transcription factors (e.g., NF‐κB, STAT3, etc.) blocking inflammatory biomarkers (e.g., NO, IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, etc.), monitoring cell cycle synchronizing genes (e.g., p53, cyclins, CDKs, etc.), and so forth. Several preclinical studies have confirmed its excellent therapeutic activities against malicious diseases like cancer, obesity, heart diseases, Alzheimer's, and so forth. This review presents an overview of embelin, its therapeutic prospective, and the molecular targets in different chronic diseases.
Effectiveness of EMDR for decreasing symptoms of over‐arousal: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Balkin Richard S. , Lenz A. Stephen , Russo G. Michael , Powell Brent W. , Gregory Halie M.
Published: November 2021

A meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of symptoms of over‐arousal and comparing effectiveness in the treatment of anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thirty‐two effect sizes from randomized controlled trials were included in the analysis. Findings were mixed, indicating that EMDR was more effective than alternative viable treatments in the treatment of over‐arousal, but that true effect may range from 210% of a standard deviation favoring EMDR to 66% of a standard deviation favoring alternative viable treatments. No statistically significant differences for effectiveness were noted in the use of EMDR when treating anxiety versus trauma. Our findings indicate that on average, EMDR may be beneficial, but there is an equivalent chance that future applications with similar samples could result in findings regarded as considerably or categorically ineffective.
Long non‐coding RNA MIR31HG as a prognostic predictor for malignant cancers: A meta‐ and bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Wei Yuanfeng , Zhai Yingjie , Liu Xiaoang , Jin Shan , Zhang Lu , Wang Chengyan , Zou Hong , Hu Jianming , Wang Lianghai , Jiang Jinfang , Shen Xihua , Pang Lijuan
Published: November 2021

Background

The possible regulatory mechanism of MIR31HG in human cancers remains unclear, and reported results of the prognostic significance of MIR31HG expression are inconsistent.

Methods

The meta‐analysis and related bioinformatics analysis were conducted to evaluate the role of MIR31HG in tumor progression.

Results

The result showed that high MIR31HG expression was not related to prognosis. However, in the stratified analysis, we found that the overexpression of MIR31HG resulted in worse OS, advanced TNM stage, and tumor differentiation in respiratory system cancers. Moreover, our results also found that MIR31HG overexpression was related to shorter OS in cervical cancer patients and head and neck tumors. In contrast, the MIR31HG was lower in digestive system tumors which contributed to shorter overall survival, advanced TNM stage, and distant metastasis. Furthermore, the bioinformatics analysis showed that MIR31HG was highly expressed in normal urinary bladder, small intestine, esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and low in colon, lung, and ovary. The results obtained from FireBrowse indicated that MIR31HG was highly expressed in LUSC, CESC, HNSC, and LUAD and low in STAD and BLCA. Gene Ontology analysis showed that the co‐expressed genes of MIR31HG were most enriched in the biological processes of peptide metabolism and KEGG pathways were most enriched in Ras, Rap1, and PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway.

Conclusion

MIR31HG may serve as a potential biomarker in human cancers.
Association between serum uric acid and carotid atherosclerosis in elderly postmenopausal women: A hospital‐based study
Authors: Dong Xiao‐kang , Luo Dan , Chen Wen‐jing , Wang Rong‐rong , Yang Jie , Niu Miao‐miao
Published: November 2021

Background

Carotid atherosclerosis (CAS) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk and implicated in 20–30% of strokes.

Methods

504 patients were included in this study. The detailed medical history and the results of physical examination, carotid ultrasound examination, and routine laboratory tests were collected. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to analyze the relationship between the SUA and the presence of carotid plaques. And the relationship between SUA and the progression of CAS was analyzed by multiple linear regression. The effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on CAS has also be evaluated.

Results

412 patients (81.7%) had carotid plaques of different sizes by carotid ultrasound examination. We found a positive association between the level of SUA and the probability of having carotid plaque by univariate logistic regression (OR: 2.01, 95% CI: 1.83–2.19, p = 0.003). At 2 years post‐discharge, we found that 1 mg/dL increase in SUA levels was expected to 0.946% increase in plaque score and 0.026 cm increase in carotid intima‐media thickness, separately. Moreover, patients treated by long‐term HRT (≥5 years) had a lower level of SUA and blood lipid and the less change of plaque score and carotid intima‐media thickness than patients without HRT.

Conclusion

The presence and progression of CAS had significantly positive associations with the level of SUA. And the HRT may have the ability to prevent the presence and progression of CAS. However, the safety and long‐term outcome of HRT on CAS should be evaluated in further studies.
ABC typing and extracellular enzyme production of Candida albicans isolated from Candida vulvovaginitis
Authors: Gharaghani Maral , Shabanzadeh Mahbubeh , Jafarian Hadis , Zarei Mahmoudabadi Ali
Published: November 2021

Background

Candida albicans is the most common and virulent genus Candida. Detection of virulence factors in this species plays an important role in the better understanding of pathogenesis and antifungal treatment. Molecular typing investigations are important in the epidemiological interpretation of infection. This study aimed to evaluate extracellular enzyme activity and genotyping of C. albicans species isolated from vulvovaginal samples.

Methods

One hundred and three vaginal C. albicans isolates were tested for esterase, phospholipase, proteinase, and hemolysin activities by specific media. Besides, the DNA of C. albicans isolates was extracted and amplified for ABC genotyping.

Results

The highest enzyme production of C. albicans isolates was for proteinase (97.1%) and esterase (95.2%), whereas 59.2% of C. albicans isolates were negative for hemolysin secretion. Genotype C (83.5%) was the most frequent genotype followed by genotype B (12.6%) and genotype A (3.9%).

Conclusion

It is concluded that genotype C was the predominant genotype in all examined vulvovaginal C. albicans isolates. Also, there was a significant difference between enzyme production in each genotype (except for proteinase).
Characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus small colony variants isolated from wound specimen of a tertiary care hospital in China
Authors: Min Changhang , Wang Haichen , Xia Fengjun , Tang Mengli , Li Jun , Hu Yongmei , Dou Qingya , Zou Mingxiang
Published: November 2021

Background

Small colony variants (SCVs) of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) frequently lead to chronic and recurrent infections, but they are always ignored and there are few researches on their clinical isolates. We intended to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of S. aureus SCVs.

Methods

None‐duplicated S. aureus strains isolated from wound samples were collected from January 2018 to December 2020. The characteristics (i.e. colony morphology, growth rate, coagulase, biofilm formation, and pathogenic characteristics), antimicrobial susceptibilities, and resistance mechanisms of SCVs were also investigated. The genetic background of SCVs was analyzed through staphylococcal protein A (SPA) typing, sequence typing, and pulse field gel electrophoresis (PFGE).

Results

Three SCVs were screened from 278 S. aureus strains (1.1%). They formed pinpoint white colonies on blood agar plates with weak hemolysis. The reproduction speed in liquid medium was very slow for SCVs strains. The coagulase weakened or disappeared, and the ability to form biofilm varied greatly. Only slight inflammation was triggered when wound infected. The SPA typing was t2592, t233, and t023, and the sequence typing was ST88, ST239, and ST965, respectively. The PFGE revealed three SCVs were singletons.

Conclusions

The rate of SCVs in wound sample is low in our hospital, and the formation is associated with the usage of antimicrobial. SCVs grow slowly, and their colony morphology and biochemical characteristics are significantly different from classic S. aureus. SCVs may cause chronic infection and weak inflammation. SCVs form in resistant or susceptible strains, and there is no clonal epidemic in this hospital.
Association between TBXT rs2305089 polymorphism and chordoma in Iranian patients identified by a developed T‐ARMS‐PCR assay
Authors: Jalessi Maryam , Gholami Mohammad Saeed , Razmara Ehsan , Hassanzadeh Sajad , Sadeghipour Alireza , Jahanbakhshi Amin , Tabibkhooei Alireza , Bahrami Eshagh , Falah Masoumeh
Published: November 2021

Background

Chordoma is a locally aggressive bone tumor with a high capability of recurrence. Because chordoma often occurs at critical locations next to neurovascular structures, there is an urgent need to introduce validated biomarkers. T‐box transcription factor T (TBXT; OMIM: 601397) plays an important role in the pathogenesis and survival of chordoma cells.

Methods

Herein, we aimed to show whether rs2305089 polymorphism is correlated with chordoma in the Iranian population. In order to detect rs2305089, tetra‐primer amplification refractory mutation system‐polymerase chain reaction (T‐ARMS‐PCR) was used. In total, 19 chordoma patients and 108 normal healthy individuals were recruited and screened using T‐ARMS‐PCR. The results were subsequently validated by Sanger sequencing.

Results

The genotype distributions and allele frequencies were significantly different among the patient and healthy groups (p‐value <0.05). The A allele of rs2305089 showed a significant positive association with chordoma risk (p‐value <0.05). DNA sequencing verified the T‐ARMS‐PCR results as well. This study demonstrated the association between TBXT rs2305089 and chordoma in an Iranian population using a simple, accurate, and cost‐effective T‐ARMS‐PCR assay.

Conclusions

Our results were in line with those of previous studies showing that TBXT rs2305089 is associated with chordoma development. We also developed an efficient T‐ARMS‐PCR assay to determine the genotype of rs2305089.
Neighborhood as a place to foster generalized trust among young adults in Hong Kong
Authors: Lai Angel H.‐Y. , Leung Carman K.‐M. , Chan Channey K.‐Y. , Lam William T.‐L. , So Christy T.‐Y , Lau Wendy S.‐Y.
Published: November 2021

Aims

Generalized trust is a crucial determinant of individual and social well‐being and is the fundamental element of a healthy society. However, a decline in generalized trust was observed among Hong Kong young adults, despite local neighborhoods, and placed‐based experiences gaining popularity among Hong Kong young people. Hence, this paper examines the effect of neighborhood‐level factors on promoting generalized trust.

Method

Cross‐sectional data were obtained from 1635 young adults aged 17–23 through mixed‐mode surveys—a computer‐assisted telephone interviewing CATI telephone survey, an online survey, and a mail survey.

Results

Logistic regression results showed that neighborhood cohesiveness, being an active member of a religious organization, being an active member of a local youth organization, acceptance of ethnic diversity, and having a good parental relationship were related to higher odds of reporting generalized trust.

Conclusion

Research and practice implications and the international relevance of the findings are discussed.
Medical knowledge and information needs among women with pathogenic variants in moderate‐risk genes for hereditary breast cancer attending genetic counseling at an academic hospital in Germany—A qualitative approach
Authors: Stracke Claudia , Lemmen Clarissa , Rhiem Kerstin , Schmutzler Rita , Kautz‐Freimuth Sibylle , Stock Stephanie
Published: November 2021

With 69,000 newly diagnosed cases every year, breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer disease among women in Germany. Familial clustering is seen in about 30% of newly diagnosed cases. Besides the high‐risk genes BRCA1/2, there are also moderate‐risk BC genes (MBCG) that are associated with a 20%–50% risk of BC, such as CHEK2, ATM, and PALB2. In Germany, carriers of pathogenic variants in MBCG receive specific information on their test results, individual risks, and preventive options during genetic counseling for the disclosure of the results in a specialized center. Little is known about the medical knowledge that women have after attending counseling. This study aims to identify the medical knowledge, further information needs, and the possible impact of a lack of information on dealing with everyday life for women with pathogenic variants in MBCG who have attended genetic counseling at an academic hospital in Germany.

Problem‐centered, guided, individual interviews were conducted with twelve women carrying pathogenic variants in MBCG. The interview guide was developed based on the methods of the problem‐centered interview according to Witzel. The interview analysis was based on Mayring's qualitative content analysis. The women were between 29 and 59 years old and carried pathogenic variants in the risk genes CHEK2 (n = 8), ATM (n = 1), or PALB2 (n = 3). Several medical uncertainties and information needs emerged from the data, concerning (a) medical terms, (b) risk perception, (c) BC therapy for hereditary BC, (d) lifestyle advice and risk factors, and (e) family planning and risk‐reducing mastectomy. Women with pathogenic variants in MBCG might develop their own conceptions regarding the onset of disease and inheritance. In order to meet the need for information and address the uncertainties that may still exist after genetic counseling, structured, evidence‐based and comprehensible written information in German should be developed for this group.
Meta‐analysis of arbidol versus lopinavir/ritonavir in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Yu Miao , Wang Deng‐Chao , Li Sheng , Lei Yue‐Hua , Wei Jian , Huang Li‐Yan
Published: November 2021

Objectives

To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of arbidol and lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) using a meta‐analysis method.

Methods

The China Knowledge Network, VIP database, WanFang database PubMed database, Embase database, and Cochrane Library were searched for a collection of comparative studies on arbidol and lopinavir/ritonavir in the treatment of COVID‐19. Meta‐analysis was used to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Arbidol and lopinavir/ritonavir in the treatment of COVID‐19.

Results

The results of the systematic review indicated that Arbidol had a higher positive‐to‐negative conversion rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) nucleic acid on Day 7 (p = 0.03), a higher positive‐to‐negative conversion rate of SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acid on Day 14 (p = 0.006), a higher improvement rate of chest computed tomography on Day 14 (p = 0.02), a lower incidence of adverse reactions (p = 0.002) and lower rate of mortality (p = 0.007). There was no difference in the rate of cough disappearance on Day 14 (p = 0.24) or the rate of severe/critical illness (p = 0.07) between the two groups.

Conclusions

Arbidol may be superior to lopinavir/ritonavir in the treatment of COVID‐19. However, due to the small number of included studies and the number of patients, high‐quality multicenter large‐sample randomized double‐blind controlled trials are still needed for verification.
LGM ice extent and deglaciation history in the Gurktal and Lavantal Alps (eastern European Alps): first constraints from 10Be surface exposure dating of glacially polished quartz veins
Authors: Wölfler Andreas , Hampel Andrea , Dielforder Armin , Hetzel Ralf , Glotzbach Christoph
Published: November 2021

Compared with the western European Alps, the ice extent during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and the subsequent deglaciation history of the eastern Alps east of the Tauern Window remain less well constrained. Also, considerable discrepancies exist between the mapped LGM ice margin and the ice extent predicted by ice‐sheet models. Here we present the first 10Be surface exposures ages from two regions east of the Tauern Window (the Gurktal and Lavantal Alps), which provide constraints on the LGM ice extent and the deglaciation history. Our results show that the deglaciation of the Gurktal Alps occurred between 16 and 14 ka, which agrees with the predictions from ice‐sheet models. In contrast, the 10Be ages from the Lavantal Alps located farther east are either LGM in age or predate the LGM, indicating that these regions were ice free or only partially covered by LGM ice. This finding suggests that ice‐sheet models may have overestimated the LGM ice extent in the easternmost Alps. In conclusion, our study highlights the need for more age data from the eastern Alps to refine the location of the LGM ice margin and the deglaciation history, which is also crucial for climate‐evolution and postglacial‐rebound models.
Physicochemical characterization and linear epitopes identification of arginine kinase allergen from Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Zhao Xiaohan , Li Guoming , Feng Xiaowen , Cheng Qingli , Lu Zhihao , Gu Ruizeng , Lu Jun , Liu Wenying
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Molluscan shellfish, including oysters, often cause allergic reactions in sensitive people throughout the world. It has been demonstrated that arginine kinase (AK) is one of the major allergens of oyster. The present study aimed to evaluate the immunoreactivity and structure of oyster AK as affected by heat treatment, pH change, and in vitro digestion. What is more, the immunoglobulin E‐binding epitopes of this allergen were also predicted and validated.

RESULTS

Thermal and pH assays revealed that AK was unstable at temperature >40 °C or pH ≤5.0 by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and circular dichroism, and the digestibility assays suggested that AK was more easily digested by pepsin than by trypsin and chymotrypsin. The potential epitopes were predicted through immunoinformatics tools, and seven linear epitopes were identified by indirect competition enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay with pooled sera and individual serum from oyster‐allergic patients. The critical amino acids in each epitope were also confirmed using mutant peptides. These linear epitopes and critical amino acids were apt to distribute on the outer surface of homology‐based AK model. Moreover, the three denaturants (sodium dodecyl sulfate, β‐mercaptoethanol, and urea) can destroy the spatial structure of AK and increase or reduce its allergenicity by denaturation treatments.

CONCLUSION

Processing conditions lay the foundation for the variation of allergenicity. Seven linear epitopes and their critical amino acids were identified by indirect competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. These findings will be helpful in allergy diagnosis and development of hypoallergenic products in the near future. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Humic fractions as indicators of soil organic matter responses to clear‐cutting in mountain and lowland conditions of southwestern Poland
Authors: Jamroz Elzbieta , Jerzykiewicz Maria
Published: November 2021

Clear‐cutting means forest removal (stems only) and is the most common type of forest harvesting but undoubtedly has a negative impact on the C budget in soils. This work aimed to describe responses of soil organic matter (SOM) in the mixed coniferous forest following the removal of trees under temperate climate conditions in lowland and mountain regions in southwestern Poland. Investigated soils are described as Brunic Arenosols derived from sand with an average content of total organic carbon (TOC) in the Oa‐horizons of 244 g·kg−1 in the lowland and Dystric Cambisols derived from gneiss; the average content of TOC in the Oa‐horizons in the mountain regions was 309 g.kg‐1. Analyzed soils were very acidic in the both regions (pH 2.7–3.5 in the topsoil). In the experiment, two replicated soil profiles were located on each site, both taken after clear‐cutting and without any harvesting. Humic fraction was isolated from Oa‐ and A‐horizons; differences between investigated objects were checked with a significance p < 0.05, (n = 16). Using the instrumental analysis, like electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy applied to isolated humic fractions, it has been found that clear‐cutting alters C cycling and accelerates decomposition in the forest floor, leading to loss of humic fractions in the investigated soils. In the mountain forests, the more labile, low‐molecular‐weight fulvic fraction decreased as the effect of harvesting practice by 30% in Oa‐horizon and by 54% in A‐horizon. The analysis of stable radicals by EPR showed a decrease in radical concentration observed for humic acids (HA) from mountain clear‐cut areas compared to the undisturbed forest. Results presented in this article have proved there is less aliphatic character of HA molecules from the lowlands, compared to the mountain forest as the effect of clear‐cutting. Changes in plant cover observed as a consequence of deforestation lead to the decrease in concentration of humic fractions with different solubility properties.
Role of particle dynamics in processing of terrestrial nitrogen and phosphorus in the estuarine mixing zone
Authors: Asmala Eero , Virtasalo Joonas J , Scheinin Matias , Newton Sara , Jilbert Tom
Published: November 2021

Multiple biogeochemical processes in estuaries modulate the flux of nutrients from land to sea, thus contributing to the coastal filter. The role of particle dynamics in regulating the fate of terrestrial nutrients in estuaries is poorly constrained. To address this issue, we resolved the particle size distribution of suspended material, and quantified size‐fractionated particulate nitrogen (PN) and phosphorus (PP), in a stratified mesotrophic estuary (Pojoviken, Finland). We also carried out a mixing experiment where the effects of salt‐induced flocculation on particle size distribution and concentrations of PN and PP were examined. The experimental results showed that salt‐induced flocculation at already very low salinities increases the total particle concentration and mean particle size, indicating transfer of dissolved material into particulates. Correspondingly, a significant increase in PP and particulate iron (Fe) was observed in the experiment results, suggesting coupled flocculation of P‐containing organic matter (OM) and ferrihydrite. Particle dynamics in the field data were dominated by processes occurring downstream of the flocculation zone. Primary production created a downward flux of autochthonous OM particles, promoting passive aggregation by random collisions with terrestrial material in the water column. Maximum particle concentrations were observed at and below the halocline. The highest PN and PP concentrations were observed in the subhalocline layer, 3.5 and 0.14 μmol L−1, respectively. Molar ratios of N:P in this material were >40, consistent with typical marine snow in the early stages of microbial processing. Our study provides a mechanistic overview of the biogeochemical drivers of particulate nutrient dynamics in stratified estuarine environments.
Depth profiles of suspended carbon and nitrogen along a North Pacific transect: Concentrations, isotopes, and ratios
Authors: Dong Sijia , Wang Xingchen Tony , Subhas Adam V. , Pavia Frank J. , Adkins Jess F. , Berelson William M.
Published: November 2021

We present concentrations of total particulate carbon (PC), carbonate (PIC), total particulate nitrogen (PN), 13C and 15N of suspended particles along a North Pacific transect. In the upper 400 m, suspended PIC to particulate organic carbon (POC) ratios generally follow published sinking PIC/POC ratios. Below 600 m, suspended PIC/POC become significantly lower than sinking PIC/POC, likely indicating PIC dissolution within the suspended load. In three out of the five stations, suspended PN δ15N increase with depth from the euphotic zone to the thermocline, consistent with previous observations in many ocean regions (e.g.,BATS and HOT). However, in the other two stations where phytoplankton blooms were encountered, high suspended PN δ15N (up to 12‰) were observed in the euphotic zone, which was likely caused by the export of low‐δ15N PN during the phytoplankton blooms. Average Corg : N ratio of suspended particles along the transect is 5.1 0.2, with the value in the subtropical gyre (5.8 0.3) slightly higher than the subarctic gyre (4.6 0.2).
Examining the influence of regional‐scale variability in temperature and light availability on the depth distribution of subtidal kelp forests
Authors: Smith Kathryn E. , Moore Pippa J. , King Nathan G. , Smale Dan A.
Published: November 2021

Foundation species play a disproportionate role in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Improved understanding of how environmental factors influence the distribution and population structure of foundation species therefore contributes to management and conservation of entire ecosystems. We surveyed subtidal kelp forests within four regions of the U.K., distributed over 9° of latitude and a mean sea temperature gradient of ~ 2.5°C. Our aims were: (1) to examine relationships between light availability and the structure and depth distribution of Laminaria hyperborea populations and (2) to determine whether depth‐related patterns were consistent across regions with different temperature regimes. We recorded marked depth‐related shifts in structure with decreasing light levels strongly correlated with declines in kelp density, cover, plant biomass, standing biomass, plant length, and age. We also recorded an effect of latitude; populations at our two colder, northernmost regions exhibited greater wet weight and length and higher standing biomass than populations in the warmer southern regions when under similar or even reduced light conditions, indicating an interactive effect of latitude, most likely related to temperature variability. We show that shifts in kelp population structure along depth gradients are strongly driven by light availability, although regional variability in the strength and nature of these relationships may be promoted by other factors such as temperature. Maximum depth penetration, standing biomass, plant density, and plant weight are useful indicators of light availability and, over time, could be monitored to detect changes in the quality of the overlying water column.
Effect of dissolved oxygen on nitrogen and phosphorus fluxes from lake sediments and their thresholds based on incubation using a simple and stable dissolved oxygen control method
Authors: Osaka Ken'ichi , Yokoyama Rei , Ishibashi Takaaki , Goto Naoshige
Published: November 2021

Laboratory incubation of intact sediments is a popular and useful method for obtaining nutrient fluxes from lake sediments to the overlying water. However, one of the main problems facing this method is that the lake sediment core itself consumes oxygen from the overlying water due to the decomposition of organic matter. In this study, addition of headspace with controlled oxygen concentration and circulation of overlying water to the traditional intact sediment incubation method allows for incubation with a stable dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in the overlying water. In 24 columns incubated for 179–269 h, the mean DO concentration in the overlying water ranged from 0.35 to 9.95 mgO2 L−1. In most cases, stability was high, with the standard deviation of the fluctuation in DO concentration less than 0.1 mgO2 L−1. The DO concentration of the overlying water could be adjusted by changing the partial pressure of oxygen in the headspace. This method supported a detailed description of the relationship between DO concentration and nutrient fluxes from sediments. The soluble reactive phosphorus fluxes and first‐order reaction constants of NO2− + NO3− fluxes increased rapidly when the DO concentration decreased below the thresholds of 1.5 and 3.0 mgO2 L−1, respectively, in Lake Biwa. The thresholds and precise relationships between DO concentration and nutrient fluxes provide useful information for predicting the effect of DO concentration decreases in the lake bottom on nutrient release from sediments. Our results indicate that this incubation method is a powerful tool for clarifying those relationships.