bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of egg consumption, metabolic markers, and risk of cardiovascular diseases: A nested case-control study
Authors: Pan Lang , Chen Lu , Lv Jun , Pang Yuanjie , Guo Yu , Pei Pei , Du Huaidong , Yang Ling , Millwood Iona Y , Walters Robin G , Chen Yiping , Gong Weiwei , Chen Junshi , Yu Canqing , Chen Zhengming , Li Liming ,   on behalf of China Kadoorie Biobank Collaborative Group
Published: May 2022

Background:

Few studies have assessed the role of individual plasma cholesterol levels in the association between egg consumption and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This research aims to simultaneously explore the associations of self-reported egg consumption with plasma metabolic markers and these markers with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods:

Totally 4778 participants (3401 CVD cases subdivided into subtypes and 1377 controls) aged 30–79 were selected based on the China Kadoorie Biobank. Targeted nuclear magnetic resonance was used to quantify 225 metabolites in baseline plasma samples. Linear regression was conducted to assess associations between self-reported egg consumption and metabolic markers, which were further compared with associations between metabolic markers and CVD risk.

Results:

Egg consumption was associated with 24 out of 225 markers, including positive associations for apolipoprotein A1, acetate, mean HDL diameter, and lipid profiles of very large and large HDL, and inverse associations for total cholesterol and cholesterol esters in small VLDL. Among these 24 markers, 14 were associated with CVD risk. In general, the associations of egg consumption with metabolic markers and of these markers with CVD risk showed opposite patterns.

Conclusions:

In the Chinese population, egg consumption is associated with several metabolic markers, which may partially explain the protective effect of moderate egg consumption on CVD.

Funding:

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81973125, 81941018, 91846303, 91843302). The CKB baseline survey and the first re-survey were supported by a grant from the Kadoorie Charitable Foundation in Hong Kong. The long-term follow-up is supported by grants (2016YFC0900500, 2016YFC0900501, 2016YFC0900504, 2016YFC1303904) from the National Key R&D Program of China, National Natural Science Foundation of China (81390540, 81390541, 81390544), and Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology (2011BAI09B01). The funders had no role in the study design, data collection, data analysis and interpretation, writing of the report, or the decision to submit the article for publication.
Slow fluctuations in ongoing brain activity decrease in amplitude with ageing yet their impact on task-related evoked responses is dissociable from behavior
Authors: Ribeiro Maria , Castelo-Branco Miguel
Published: May 2022

In humans, ageing is characterized by decreased brain signal variability and increased behavioral variability. To understand how reduced brain variability segregates with increased behavioral variability, we investigated the association between reaction time variability, evoked brain responses and ongoing brain signal dynamics, in young (N=36) and older adults (N=39). We studied the electroencephalogram (EEG) and pupil size fluctuations to characterize the cortical and arousal responses elicited by a cued go/no-go task. Evoked responses were strongly modulated by slow (<2 Hz) fluctuations of the ongoing signals, which presented reduced power in the older participants. Although variability of the evoked responses was lower in the older participants, once we adjusted for the effect of the ongoing signal fluctuations, evoked responses were equally variable in both groups. Moreover, the modulation of the evoked responses caused by the ongoing signal fluctuations had no impact on reaction time, thereby explaining why although ongoing brain signal variability is decreased in older individuals, behavioral variability is not. Finally, we showed that adjusting for the effect of the ongoing signal was critical to unmask the link between neural responses and behavior as well as the link between task-related evoked EEG and pupil responses.
Fisetin glycosides synthesized by cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase from Paenibacillus sp. RB01: characterization, molecular docking, and antioxidant activity
Authors: Lorthongpanich Nattawadee , Mahalapbutr Panupong , Rungrotmongkol Thanyada , Charoenwongpaiboon Thanapon , Prousoontorn Manchumas Hengsakul
Published: May 2022

Fisetin is a flavonoid that exhibits high antioxidant activity and is widely employed in the pharmacological industries. However, the application of fisetin is limited due to its low water solubility. In this study, glycoside derivatives of fisetin were synthesized by an enzymatic reaction using cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase) from Paenibacillus sp. RB01 in order to improve the water solubility of fisetin. Under optimal conditions, CGTase was able to convert more than 400 mg/L of fisetin to its glycoside derivatives, which is significantly higher than the previous biosynthesis using engineered E. coli. Product characterization by HPLC and LC-MS/MS revealed that the transglycosylated products consisted of at least five fisetin glycoside derivatives, including fisetin mono-, di- and triglucosides, as well as their isomers. Enzymatic analysis by glucoamylase and α-glucosidase showed that these fisetin glycosides were formed by α-1,4-glycosidic linkages. Molecular docking demonstrated that there are two possible binding modes of fisetin in the enzyme active site containing CGTase-glysosyl intermediate, in which O7 and O4’ atoms of fisetin positioned close to the C1 of glycoside donor, corresponding to the isomers of the obtained fisetin monoglucosides. In addition, the water solubility and the antioxidant activity of the fisetin monoglucosides were tested. It was found that their water solubility was increased at least 800 times when compared to that of their parent molecule while still maintaining the antioxidant activity. This study revealed the potential application of CGTase to improve the solubility of flavonoids.
Managing the Grey-headed Flying-fox as a threatened species in New South Wales two decades on: threats and conservation issues
Authors: Mo Matthew , Coutts-McClelland Kylie , Wilson Vanessa , Haering Ron , Oliver Lorraine , Bell Linda , Lunney Daniel
Published: May 2022

The Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus was listed as a vulnerable species by both the New South Wales (NSW) and Australian Governments in 2001. The NSW Government has since collaborated with other organisations and stakeholders on projects and initiatives for flying-fox conservation and population monitoring. While contentious issues for horticulturalists and communities are detailed in a companion paper, this paper examines a number of persistent threats and conservation issues, such as habitat destruction and food shortages, anthropogenic injuries and extreme heat events. While there have been several independent efforts to conserve flying-fox habitat leading up to the recent commencement of a state-wide funding program for flying-fox habitat restoration, the continual loss of foraging habitat to urban development occurring at a greater scale is a conundrum. Flying-foxes suffering from injuries with anthropogenic causes are primarily addressed by wildlife carers rescuing and rehabilitating them. Additionally, preventative actions, such as promotion of wildlife-friendly netting, are implemented by different organisations to reduce injuries. There is also work being done by government agencies, land managers, scientists and wildlife carers to improve heat stress management, including moving towards a more coordinated and collaborative approach for responding to extreme heat events and undertaking scientific research. The diversity of threats affecting the Grey-headed Flying-fox means that the species’ conservation is beyond the capacity of any one organisation and relies on the collaborative efforts of a broad range of stakeholders across the entire species’ range.
Transfer Factor of Selected Radionuclides from Soil to Plant in Selected Dump Site of Obio/Akpor and Ikwerre Local Government Areas of Rivers State
Authors: Anyalebechi C. D. , Gbarato O. L. , Ononugbo C. P.
Published: May 2022

Indiscriminate dumping of municipal and industrial wastes in our environment has increased human exposure to hazardous substances which is detrimental to their health. In this research, radionuclide transfer factor was ascertained from crops planted near major dump sites in Rivers State. Samples of food crops and soil near the dumpsites were collected for gamma spectroscopy. The average activity concentration of 40K, 238U and 232Th in soil are 115.87 \(\pm\)  17.01 Bqkg-1, 31.54 \(\pm\) 7.13 Bqkg-1 and 18.77 \(\pm\) 6.02 Bqkg-1. While in crop are 403.46 \(\pm\) 13.06 Bqkg-1, 9.54 \(\pm\) 4.02 and 22.245.11.  In soil, all the radionuclide values were all within the world average value and in crop, the values were also within the world average value except for 40K that was more prevalent in crop and exceeds the world average value of 400Bqkg-1. The activity concentration of radionuclides 40K, 238U and 232Th for transfer factor are 8.187667Bqkg-1, 0.231667Bqkg-1 and 2.144333Bqkg-1 respectively with potassium having the highest mean transfer factor which may be due to its higher accumulation in crop. Based on this finding, cassava products cultivated in dumpsites are not radiologically free and safe for human consumption.
Modeling Addition of Dissimilar Fractions: Misconceptions of Pre-service Teachers
Authors: Adalla Mary June T. , Ballado Ronato S.
Published: May 2022

Fractions and learning about them have been consistently difficult for students. This difficulty, grounded on the lack of conceptual knowledge, results in errors in performing operations with fractions. This descriptive study explored the errors in adding dissimilar fractions and misconceptions on modeling fractions among 265 pre-service teachers. The study utilized an open-ended question asking for the procedural computation and the modeling of the addition of two dissimilar fractions as a data-gathering instrument. The findings of the study revealed that the majority of the respondents got the required answer correctly in the question requiring procedural knowledge. In the question requiring the fractions to be modeled, only a few were able to model the fractions correctly. A big percentage of respondents either had no answer to the question or expressed the modeling of fractions in a rule. The study further revealed varied misconceptions on how adding dissimilar fractions are modeled. Recommendations on improving the conceptual knowledge of students as early as elementary grades are promoted.
Germplasm Characterization for Morphological Diversity in the Potential Futuristic Crop Amaranthus (Amaranthus spp.)
Authors: Lakshmidevamma T. N. , Deshpande Sanjeev K. , Jagadeesha R. C. , Patil B. R. , Patil Ramangouda V. , Mirajkar Kiran K.
Published: May 2022

The present study was carried out to characterize 209 Amaranth germplasm consisting of 124 grain amaranth and 85 vegetable amaranth accessions for various morphological traits in accordance with the DUS guidelines of PPVFRA, New Delhi. The genotypes were characterized for two seasons viz., kharif and summer, wherein same level of expression was observed for the traits. A total of 17 characters were scored, eight in grain amaranths and nine in vegetable amaranths related to vegetative morphology, inflorescence and seed traits. Distinct forms with respect to leaf colour, inflorescence colour, stem colour and other studied traits were observed among the genotypes. The majority of the grain amaranth accessions were green leaved with yellowish green stem, ridged stem surface having yellowish green, erect and dense inflorescence. Seed colour was predominantly creamish. Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index ranged from 1.778 (inflorescence colour) to 0.524 (presence of leaf blotch). Vegetable amaranth accessions had largely medium green leaf blade colour with green inflorescence and green stem. Further, most of the accessions were cutting types with black coloured seeds. Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index in vegetable amaranths varied from high for leaf blade colour (1.529) and stem colour (1.158) to low index for the trait presence of leaf blotch (0.190). Collection, morphological characterization and classification of germplasm helps in identifying distinct genotypes with contrasting characters, which would in turn facilitate to broaden the germplasm base and varietal identification.
H2O2 Exfoliation of TiO2 for Enhanced Hydrogen Production from Photocatalytic Reforming of Methanol
Authors: Razak Syaahidah Abdul , Bahruji Hasliza , Mahadi Abdul Hanif , Yun Hong Wan
Published: May 2022

Hydrogen is considered a future energy carrier for clean and sustainable technology. Photocatalytic reforming of methanol produced hydrogen using water and energy from sunlight. This study reported enhanced activity of TiO2 without metal co-catalyst for hydrogen production following H2O2 exfoliation. TiO2 was transformed into peroxo-titania species on the outer layer of the particles, resulting in surface exfoliation. The exfoliation reduced TiO2 crystallite sizes enhanced the surface hydroxyl group and reduced the band gap to 3.0 eV. Hydrogen production from methanol-water mixtures on the TiO2 after four consecutive exfoliations was measured at 300 µmol, significantly higher than the fresh TiO2 (50 µmol).  H2O2 exfoliated TiO2 reduced the pathway for charge migration to the surface.  A high concentration of surface hydroxyl group trapped the charge carriers for efficient hydrogen production. Copyright © 2022 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
High Quantum Yield Blue InP/ZnS/ZnS Quantum Dots Based on Bromine Passivation for Efficient Blue Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zhang Wenda , Tan Yangzhi , Duan Xijian , Zhao Fangqing , Liu Haochen , Chen Wei , Liu Pai , Liu Xiaogang , Wang Kai , Zhang Zhikuan , Sun Xiao Wei
Published: May 2022

Red and green InP quantum dots (QDs) already have been demonstrated with excellent luminescence performance closing the gap with CdSe‐based QDs. However, the performance of blue InP QDs still lags behind that of red and green QDs. For blue InP QDs synthesized by aminophosphine and zinc iodide, the inherent I– possesses weak passivation ability. By introducing Br– with a smaller ion radius and larger binding energy, the quantum yield of blue InP QDs is increased from 54% to 93%, which is the highest value reported so far. Meanwhile, the long‐chain 1‐dodecanethiol is replaced by the short‐chain 1‐octanethiol through ligand exchange to increase the carrier injection efficiency. The blue quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs) made of these QDs showed an external quantum efficiency of 2.6%, which is notably the highest blue InP QLED reported so far.
Do farmers need to be paid to grow milkweed for monarchs or will they volunteer if it is easy enough?
Authors: Thakur Tiesta , Hurley Terrance
Published: May 2022

A decline in the monarch butterfly population led the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to acknowledge monarchs should be listed under the 1973 Endangered Species Act. This research evaluates farmer interest in restoring monarch habitat on their non‐cropped acres to help circumvent such a listing. Results suggest that efforts to promote habitat restoration on non‐cropped acres should focus on voluntary participation and make programs as easy as possible through design and technical assistance. The results also suggest that even a successful program can only provide a small fraction of the habitat needed to meet current restoration goals.
Substituent effects of tertiary phosphines on the structures and electrochemical performances of azadithiolato‐bridged diiron model complexes of [FeFe]‐hydrogenases
Authors: Liu Xu‐Feng , Ma Zhong‐Yi , Jin Bo , Wang Dong , Zhao Pei‐Hua
Published: May 2022

In this work, a new series of azadithiolato‐bridged diiron complexes [Fe2(μ‐adtNOH)(CO)5{P(C6H4R)3}] (adtNOH = (SCH2)2N(C6H4CH2CH2OH‐p) and R = Cl‐p, 1; Me‐m, 2; OMe‐p, 3 supported by tertiary phosphines, which may be considered as the active site models of [FeFe]‐hydrogenases, has been prepared in 73–81% yields by the Me3NO‐assisted decarbonylating reactions of all‐CO precursor [Fe2(μ‐adtNOH)(CO)6] (A) with several tertiary phosphines [(P(C6H4R)3] in MeCN at room temperature. All the new complexes 1–3 are fully characterized by elemental analysis, spectroscopic techniques (Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy [FT‐IR] and nuclear magnetic resonance [NMR]), and especially for 1 and 3 by X‐ray crystallography. The IR and 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopic analyses have shown that the electron density of diiron center in 1–3 may be adjusted by the introduction of the different substituents (R) of the P(C6H4R)3 ligands into the [2Fe2S] cluster. The X‐ray crystallographic investigation has displayed that the typical Fe‐Fe, Fe‐P, and Fe‐C distances of 1–3 are significantly influenced by the electronic effects of the P(C6H4R)3 phosphines coordinated apically to one Fe atom, whereas their Papical‐Fe‐Fe and Capical‐Fe‐Fe angles are mainly controlled by the steric interaction between the phosphine ligands and the dithiolate bridges. Further, the electrochemical performances of 1–3 are studied and compared in the absence or presence of acetic acid (HOAc) as proton source by using cyclic voltammetry, suggesting that they are active for the electrocatalytic proton reduction to hydrogen (H2).
Enzyme‐assisted extraction of chicken skin protein hydrolysates and fat: Degree of hydrolysis affects the physicochemical and functional properties
Authors: Safar Razavizadeh Rahimeh , Farmani Jamshid , Motamedzadegan Ali
Published: May 2022

Enzyme‐assisted extraction (EAE) of oils/fats involves the disruption of the cell wall of source material using enzymes to facilitate the release of oil. When proteases are used as the enzyme, EAE ends in the extracted oil as well as the protein hydrolysates. Herein, the EAE (using a commercial protease, Alcalase) was exploited to obtain fat and protein hydrolysates from chicken skin. Degree of hydrolysis (DH, the percentage ratio of cleaved peptide bonds), which showed a logarithmic correlation with the reaction time, was found to affect the properties of the products. As the DH increased, the peptide chain length of protein hydrolysates decreased which was confirmed by SDS‐PAGE analysis. With the increase of DH, the emulsifying activity index, foaming capacity, and oil holding capacity of the hydrolysates decreased but the solubility and emulsion stability index increased (p < 0.05). The DPPH free radical scavenging activity of the hydrolysates increased with the DH up to DH = 39.62% but decreased thereafter (p < 0.05). EAE resulted in a rise in fat yield and the fat contained a higher amount of unsaponifiables and lower free fatty acids (FFA) content, as compared to the control treatment (No enzyme, 80°C, 2 h, p < 0.05). DH affected the fat yield and the unsaponifiables content of the fat, positively (p < 0.05). However, it did not affect the fat FFA content and iodine value (p > 0.05). Results obtained here showed DH can be used as an effective measure for controlling the physicochemical and functional properties of chicken skin protein hydrolysates and fat in the EAE process.
Electroacupuncture at BL15 attenuates chronic fatigue syndrome by downregulating iNOS/NO signaling in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Zhu Yang , Wang Jingya , Yao Lin , Huang Yunxuan , Yang Haitao , Yu Xiaojiang , Chen Xinghua , Chen Yongjun
Published: May 2022

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) has a high incidence due to the increased pressure of daily life and work in modern society. Our previous clinical studies have found the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on CFS patients, however, the mechanism of EA on CFS is still unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of EA on cardiac function in a CFS mouse model to explore its underlying mechanism. The mice were randomly divided into three groups: control, CFS, and CFS mice receiving EA (CFS + EA). After behavioral assessments and echocardiographic measurement, blood and heart tissue of the mice were collected for biochemical tests, and then we evaluated the effects of EA on the CFS mouse model when nitric oxide (NO) levels were enhanced byl‐arginine. The results showed that EA ameliorated the injured motor and cardiac function. Meanwhile, EA also inhibited increased expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) at heart tissue and the serum NO levels in mice subjected to sustained forced swimming stress. Furthermore, the NO level in serum increased withl‐arginine administration, which blocked the effects of EA on CFS mice. This study suggested that EA could improve the motor function and cardiac function in CFS mice and its effects may be associated with the down‐regulation of iNOS/NO signaling.
In Vivo Generation of SSA/Ro Antigen–Specific Regulatory T Cells Improves Experimental Sjögren's Syndrome in Mice
Authors: Xu Junji , Liu Ousheng , Wang Dandan , Wang Fu , Zhang Dunfang , Jin Wenwen , Cain Alexander , Bynum Andrew , Liu Na , Han Yichen , Chen WanJun
Published: May 2022

Objective

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disease, and T cells play an important role in the initiation and perpetuation of the disease. In this study, we developed an immunotherapy for NOD/LtJ mice with SS‐like symptoms by combining a transient depletion of CD4+ T cells with the administration of autoantigen‐specific peptide Ro480.

Methods

NOD/LtJ mice were treated with single anti‐CD4 monoclonal antibody (mAb) followed 2 days later by a series of 6 intraperitoneal injections of Ro480–494 every other day. Salivary flow rates were determined pre‐ and posttreatment once a week. Mice were euthanized 6 weeks after the initial anti‐CD4 mAb treatment, salivary glands (SGs) were collected for analyses of histologic disease scores and inflammatory cell infiltration, polymerase chain reaction determination of genes was conducted, and flow cytometry analysis including major histocompatibility complex class II tetramer staining of immune cells was performed. In addition, adoptive transfer of Treg cells was administrated to investigate the function of the newly generating Treg cells in vivo.

Results

The combination of anti‐CD4 mAb with autoantigen‐specific peptide Ro480 generated SSA/Ro antigen–specific Treg cells in vivo, which can suppress interferon‐γ production of CD4+ T cells and inflammation infiltration in SGs and maintain the function of SGs.

Conclusion

Our findings provide a new approach to generating antigen‐specific Treg cells in vivo for SS treatment, which may have implications for potential therapy for patients with SS.
Outcomes of simultaneous resection for elderly patients with colorectal liver metastasis: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Chen Qichen , Zhang Yizhou , Deng Yiqiao , Huang Zhen , Zhao Hong , Cai Jianqiang
Published: May 2022

Background

Evidence on simultaneous resection for elderly patients (age ≥ 70 years) with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) is lacking.

Methods

Four hundred and eighty‐two CRLM patients treated by simultaneous resection were categorised into young group (age < 70 years) and elderly group (age ≥ 70 years). Propensity score matching (PSM1) was performed to adjust for differences in baseline characteristics and compare short‐term outcomes. An additional propensity score matching (PSM2) including short‐term outcomes was performed to analyse survival. Subgroup analysis was performed in patients stratified by the Clinical Risk Score (CRS).

Results

After PSM1, 87 young group patients were matched to 50 elderly group patients. Patients in the elderly group had a significantly higher rate of overall post‐operative complications (68.0% vs. 46.0%, p = 0.013). After PSM2, 89 young group patients were matched to 47 elderly group patients. Progression‐free survival (PFS) was comparable between the two groups (median 11.0 months vs. 9.8 months, p = 0.346). Age ≥ 70 independently predicted worse overall survival (OS) (Hazard ratio, HR = 2.57, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.37–4.82) in multivariate analysis. In the subgroup multivariate analysis of patients with CRS score 3–5, age ≥ 70 was independently associated with worse PFS (HR = 1.62, 95% CI 1.01–2.62) and OS (HR = 2.34, 95% CI 1.26–4.35).

Conclusions

Simultaneous resection for elderly CRLM patients is acceptable. Further studies are required to determine the optimal treatment for elderly CRLM patients with high CRS scores.
Pure Sertoli cell tumor of the ovary: A case report
Authors: Shrestha Suraj , Homagain Sushan , Bhatta Suraj , Tiwari Sansar Babu , Rijal Rishikesh , Aryal Roshan , Sharma Nisha , Paudyal Pooja , Katuwal Neeta , Rawal Suniti Joshi
Published: May 2022

Pure Sertoli cell tumors are an uncommon variant of rare ovarian Sertoli‐Leydig cell tumors. Due to nonspecific clinical and imaging features, diagnosis is often made after histopathological examination. The prognosis is excellent as most are detected in the early stages and surgical resection is often curative in most cases.
Creation of High‐Dimensional Reduction Analysis‐Compatible Histocytometry Files from Images of Densely‐Packed Cells and/or Variable Stain Intensity
Authors: Munoz‐Erazo Luis , Schmidt Alfonso J. , Shinko Diana , Eccles David A. , Price Kylie M.
Published: May 2022

The power of high‐dimensional reduction techniques using multiparameter images has been demonstrated across a variety of different publications. Recently, we published an end‐to‐end low‐cost GUI‐based protocol for performing histocytometric spatial analysis on images derived from the most common microscope image formats. However, this protocol is limited by the normalized marker intensity outputs and the difficulty in processing images of highly aggregated and/or exceptionally heterogenous cell populations.

Here we present the basic protocols required to construct an advanced histocytometric data file using only freeware. This data file is compatible with images containing cell nuclei clusters that are difficult to segment, and results in histocytometry files retaining the original marker intensity values of the microscopic images they were derived from. This is especially useful in cells that are phenotyped based on relative marker expression levels. Histocytometry data files produced by these protocols are compatible with high‐dimensional reduction analysis using marker intensity data, such as tSNEs. This methodology is showcased using stitched microscopic images of murine lymph nodes, complex organs with highly aggregated heterogenous cell populations, that are typically difficult to segment. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Image preprocessing and generation of nuclei marker probability maps

Basic Protocol 2: Cell segmentation using ilastik‐derived probability maps

Basic Protocol 3: Generation of histocytometric .fcs files
Full spectrum cytometry improves the resolution of highly autofluorescent biological samples: Identification of myeloid cells in regenerating skeletal muscles
Authors: Kharraz Yacine , Lukesova Vera , Serrano Antonio L. , Davison Adam , Muñoz‐Cánoves Pura
Published: May 2022

Autofluorescence (AF) is an intrinsic characteristic of cells caused by the presence of fluorescent biological compounds within the cell; these can include structural proteins (e.g., collagen and elastin), cellular organelles, and metabolites (e.g., aromatic amino acids). In flow cytometric studies, the presence of AF can lead to reduced antigen and population resolution, as well as the presence of artifacts due to false positive events. Here, we describe a methodology that uses the inherent ability of full spectrum cytometry to treat AF as a fluorochrome and to thereby separate it from the other fluorochromes of the assay. This method can be applied to complex inflamed tissues; for instance, in regenerating skeletal muscle we have developed a 16‐color panel targeting highly autofluorescent myeloid cells. This represents a first step toward overcoming technological limitations in flow cytometry due to AF.
The effect of increasing Women's autonomy on primary and repeated caesarean sections in Brazil
Authors: de Oliveira Victor Hugo , Lee Ines , Quintana‐Domeque Climent
Published: May 2022

Caesarean section (C‐section) rates continue to rise globally. Yet, there is little consensus about the key determinants of rising C‐section rates and the sources of variation in C‐section rates across the world. While C‐sections can save lives when medically justified, unnecessary surgical procedures can be harmful for women and babies. We show that a state‐wide law passed in São Paulo (Brazil), which increased women's autonomy to choose to deliver via C‐section even when not medically necessary, is associated with a 3% increase in overall C‐section rates. This association was driven by a 5% increase in primary C‐sections, rather than repeated C‐sections. Since the law emphasizes women's autonomy, these results are consistent with mothers' demand being an important contributor to high C‐section rates in this context.
Community pharmacists perception and role in the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease conditions: Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Henneh Amanda Henewaa , Teg‐Nefaah Tabong Philip
Published: May 2022

Background

Globally, Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are the leading non‐communicable diseases with a high mortality if not detected and managed early. The study assessed community pharmacists' perception and determined their role in CVDs prevention and management.

Method

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 103 registered community pharmacists in the Ahafo, Bono and Bono East regions of Ghana. Data was collected using validated questionnaires through an online and in‐person surveys. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel and STATA 14.1.

Results

Community Pharmacists had knowledge on the concept of pharmaceutical care (n = 93, 92.2%). The roles that Pharmacists played in CVD management and control included educating clients on their conditions and drug therapy, checking for possible drug interactions and screening for risk factors. The barriers to CV health promotion were increase of the pharmacist's workload (n = 96, 93.2%), lack of time (n = 91, 88.4%) and lack of CVD educational materials and clinical tools (n = 56, 54.4%).

Conclusion

Community pharmacists have a positive perception of their role in CVDs and performed various activities to reduce the burden of CVDs. However, cardiovascular health promotion in community pharmacies is hindered by increase of the pharmacist's workload, lack of time and lack of CVD educational materials.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on provision of HIV/AIDS services for key populations
Authors: Nguyen Thu Ha , Nguyen Quynh Anh , Khuat Hai Oanh , Le Thi Thanh Ha , Nguyen Thanh Huong
Published: May 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has aggravated the obstacles for HIV/AIDS programs in limited‐resource countries like Vietnam to achieve the HIV/AIDS‐related Sustainable Development target. The paper aims to evaluate the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the provision of HIV/AIDS services—a pathway to achieving universal health coverage for key populations (KPs). Employing mix‐methods, we conducted a desk study, one focus group discussion, and ten in‐depth interviews with participants from the Ministry of Health, Provincial Centres for Disease Control, and HIV/AIDS‐related facilities. The results showed the reduced coverage of KPs with access to prevention (i.e., harm‐reduction services, counselling), testing, and treatment services (i.e., antiretroviral therapy, isoniazid preventive therapy). It also showed the reduced coverage of quality essential services, mainly in skipping consultation and testing, delaying un‐emergency services, and redirecting KPs to non‐HIV‐specialised facilities. There was a gap in providing support for mental health, violence/abuse, and reproductive health. Financial risk protection for KPs was reduced due to uncertain local budget allocation; decreasing their ability to pay for HIV/AIDS‐related services and social health insurance premiums; and increased out‐of‐pocket payments to comply with the COVID‐19 control measures. This paper provides recommendations for strategic planning to ensure universal health coverage for KPs in the post COVID‐19 era, especially for limited‐resource countries like Vietnam.
Incongruous employer brand signals and organizational attractiveness: Evidence from multinational companies in China
Authors: Wang Lan , Han Jian , Ramasamy Bala , Peng Siqing
Published: May 2022

In an era of information explosion, employers' information is often disclosed to employees and potential applicants from multiple channels and angles, which are usually combinations of positive and negative signals. How do such uncoordinated brand signals affect the attractiveness of an organization? Building on micro‐corporate social responsibility (CSR) literature and three studies, we found that when potential employees perceived imbalanced brand signals of CSR and corporate ability, the positive impact of CSR on organizational attractiveness was strengthened when the company was weaker in its corporate ability. When they perceived conflicting brand signals of corporate social irresponsibility (CSiR) and corporate ability, the negative impact of CSiR on organizational attractiveness was strengthened when the company was stronger in its corporate ability. Supplementary analyses also demonstrated a significant three‐way interaction among CSR, CSiR, and corporate ability. When such conflicting brand signals were presented, CSR weakened CSiR's negative impact when corporate ability was stronger. However, when corporate ability was weaker, CSR strengthened the negative impact of CSiR on organizational attractiveness. Our study offers guidance for companies with mixed employer brand signals and suggests enhancing applicant attraction via synergy among a company's public relations, human resources, and marketing functions.
What leads to cyberslacking intentions among students in Pakistan: An enhanced theory of planned behavior perspective
Authors: Hanif Muhammad Shehzad , Abdul Hamid Abu Bakar , Khurshid Atzaz , Butt Muhammad Farooq Tariq
Published: May 2022

Cyberslacking or nonproductive activity in the classroom environment is one of the key problems that academicians face today. This study aims to investigate various determinants of cyberslacking attitudes and intentions among students enrolled in higher education institutions in Pakistan to bridge the gap in the literature about the limited understanding of cyberslacking behaviors of students in the developing world. Structural equation modeling (SEM) technique was employed to analyze the relationships between determinants of cyberslacking attitude and intention based on the survey data collected from 403 students. Results suggest that lack of attention, apathy to course material, and student consumerism significantly contribute to cyberslacking attitudes among these students while attitude and student escapism drive the cyberslacking intentions. Perceived threat and habit fail to show any significant influence lending useful implications for the academicians and researchers. The research is concluded with limitations guiding future research direction.
Modification of Fibers and Matrices in Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ramachandran ArunRamnath , Mavinkere Rangappa Sanjay , Kushvaha Vinod , Khan Anish , Seingchin Suchart , Dhakal Hom N.
Published: May 2022

Application of natural fiber‐polymer composites (NFPCs) in different industrial applications provides competitive edge due to their lightweight, higher specific mechanical properties than glass fibers, sustainability, and lower cost involved in production. There are certain challenges associated with natural fibers and their reinforcement in composites such as poor bonding between the fibers and matrix due to their contradictory nature of characteristics, moisture absorption, lower thermal properties, and poor interfacial adhesion between the natural fiber and polymer matrix. The challenges involved in NFPCs need to be overcome to produce materials with relatively equivalent properties to those of conventional composites and other metallic structures. Several researchers around the globe have conducted investigations with the primary attention being paid to the modification of natural fibers and matrix by employing surface treatments and other chemical treatment methods. In order to address the need for eco‐friendly and sustainable materials in different domains, a comprehensive review on natural fibers and their sources, available matrix materials, modification techniques, mechanical and thermal properties of NFPCs, is needed for better understanding of the behavior of NFPCs. This work provides the information and holistic view of natural fiber‐reinforced composites based on the results obtained from modification techniques, with the view of focusing the review in terms of different chemical and physical treatment techniques, modification of fibers and matrix, and enhanced mechanical and thermal properties in the composites.
Germline mutations in Chinese ovarian cancer with or without breast cancer
Authors: Kwong Ava , Ho Cecilia Yuen Sze , Shin Vivian Yvonne , Au Chun Hang , Luk Wing Pan , Fung Ling Hiu , Chan Tsun‐Leung , Chan Karen Kar Loen , Ngan Hextan Yuen Sheung , Ma Edmond Shiu Kwan
Published: May 2022

Background

Ovarian and breast cancers are known to have significant genetic components. Considering the differences in the mutation spectrum across ethnicity, it is important to identify hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) genes mutation in Chinese for clinical management.

Methods

Two cohorts of 451 patients with ovarian cancer only (OV) and 93 patients with both breast and ovarian (BROV) cancers were initially screened for BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53, and PTEN. 109 OV and 43 BROV patients with extensive clinical risk and were being tested negative, were then further characterized by 30‐gene panel analysis.

Results

Pathogenic BRCA1/2 variants were identified in 45 OV patients and 33 BROV patients, giving a prevalence of 10% and 35.5%, respectively. After the extended screening, mutations in other HBOC genes were identified in an additional 12.8% (14/109) of the OV cohort and 14% (6/43) in the BROV cohort. The most commonly mutated genes in the OV cohort were MSH2 (4.6%) while in the BROV cohort were MSH2 (4.7%) and PALB2 (4.7%). With this extended multigene testing strategy, pathogenic mutations were detected in 12.8% of OV patients (BRCAs: 10%; additional genes: 12.8%) and 40.9% (BRCAs: 35.5%; additional genes: 14%) of BROV patients.

Conclusion

Extended characterization of the contributions of HBOC genes to OV and BROV patients has significant impacts on further management in patients and their families, expanding the screening net for more asymptomatic individuals.
Compact filtering balun with ultra‐wide stopband based on π‐type capacitive networks
Authors: Cheng Ganxiaoyu , Zhang Gong
Published: May 2022

In this letter, a new compact filtering balun with an ultra‐wide stopband is proposed on the ceramic substrate. Four coupled line units are utilized to design the distributed balun with a second‐order filtering response. Then, three‐/two‐port inductively loaded π‐type capacitive networks without high‐order harmonics are equivalent to distributed three‐/two‐port distributed coupled line units; therefore, the proposed compact lumped filtering balun based on these π‐type capacitive networks inherently have ultra‐wide stopband characteristics. To verify the design concept, a prototype with 15‐dB bandwidth across 0.85–1 GHz is designed at 0.95 GHz, and its amplitude and phase imbalances are 0.4 dB and E4.5°, respectively. The upper stopband attenuation higher than 20 dB of the balun is extended to 12.9 f0, where f0 is the center frequency, and its size is only 0.0025λg2, where λg is the guide wavelength.
Electrically small, low‐profile, full‐duplex Huygens dipole filtenna
Authors: Wu Zhentian , Tang Ming‐Chun , Ziolkowski Richard W.
Published: May 2022

An electrically small, full‐duplex Huygens dipole filtenna (HDF) is realized as a dense array of two HDF elements consisting of Egyptian axe dipole and capacitively‐loaded loop near‐field resonant parasitic (NFRP) elements. The dual‐band HDF elements operate at two very nearby frequency bands and are physically separated by only 0.12 λLB. Benefitting from the HDF element's good out‐of‐band rejection performance characteristics, high isolation levels between the lower‐band (LB) and higher‐band (HB) ports are obtained without any decoupling structure. The measured results, in good agreement with their simulated values, demonstrate that the entire system is electrically small (ka = 0.975) and low‐profile (0.041 λLB). The measured isolation levels at its LB (HB) port is, respectively, over 33.9 (29.2) dB. When the LB (HB) port is excited, its fractional bandwidth, broadside realized gain, front‐to‐back ratio, and overall efficiency values are, respectively, 0.86% (0.77%), 2.1 (2.31) dBi, 8.1 (9.6 ) dB, and 62.1% (62.8%).
Characterization and correction of the effects of hepatic iron on T1ρ relaxation in the liver at 3.0T
Authors: Qian Yurui , Hou Jian , Jiang Baiyan , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun , Lee Jack , Chan Queenie , Wang Yixiang , Chu Winnie Chiu‐Wing , Chen Weitian
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Quantitative T1ρ imaging is an emerging technique to assess the biochemical properties of tissues. In this paper, we report our observation that liver iron content (LIC) affects T1ρ quantification of the liver at 3.0T field strength and develop a method to correct the effect of LIC.

Theory and Methods

On‐resonance R1ρ (1/T1ρ) is mainly affected by the intrinsic R2 (1/T2), which is influenced by LIC. As on‐resonance R1ρ is closely related to the Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill (CPMG) R2, and because the calibration between CPMG R2 and LIC has been reported at 1.5T, a correction method was proposed to correct the R2 contribution to the R1ρ. The correction coefficient was obtained from the calibration results and related transformed factors. To compensate for the difference between CPMG R2 and R1ρ, a scaling factor was determined using the values of CPMG R2 and R1ρ, obtained simultaneously from a single breath‐hold from volunteers. The livers of 110 subjects were scanned to validate the correction method.

Results

LIC was significantly correlated with R1ρ in the liver. However, when the proposed correction method was applied to R1ρ, LIC and the iron‐corrected R1ρ were not significantly correlated.

Conclusion

LIC can affect T1ρ in the liver. We developed an iron‐correction method for the quantification of T1ρ in the liver at 3.0T.
Pathophysiology, assessment, and treatment of overactive bladder symptoms in patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome
Authors: Dobberfuhl Amy D.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is prevalent, difficult to treat, and has close symptom overlap with overactive bladder (OAB). A review of the pathophysiology, assessment, and treatment of IC/BPS patients with overlapping OAB symptoms has not been summarized recently in the published literature.

Methods

A review of the published literature on the overlap of IC/BPS and OAB was conducted using MeSH terminology (1992–2022).

Results

The pathophysiology of IC/BPS is not fully understood. Animal research has found the bladder trigone and base are richly populated by afferent fibers, including many small unmyelinated C‐fibers that may be upregulated in IC/BPS. Successful therapies with multimodal effects on OAB symptoms in patients with IC/BPS are likely to exert beneficial effects on both pain and lower urinary tract symptoms. Potentially efficacious therapies for the treatment of OAB in IC/BPS include pelvic floor physical therapy, oral pharmacotherapy (antimuscarinics and beta‐3 agonists), sacral neuromodulation, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation, and botulinum toxin A (BTA). Antimuscarinics and beta‐3 agonists have yielded partial efficacy in IC/BPS, although may help differentiate symptoms of OAB from those associated with IC/BPS. The transvaginal trigone treatment (T3) intradetrusor injection approach allows for delivery of therapeutics to the bladder without the need for a cystoscope and appears to be feasible.

Conclusions

Further research is needed to understand the pathophysiology of IC/BPS and symptom overlap with OAB, which in turn should enable the development of more personalized therapeutics.
Marine karst environment characterization using joint geophysical and geotechnical data
Authors: Dusart Judith , Tarits Pascal , Bazin Sara , Isorna Rocio , d'Eu Jean‐François
Published: May 2022

Submarine karstic environments are complex and challenging to study. Seismic investigations usually have difficulty getting geological information because of a lack of penetration due to the high reflectivity of the calcareous substratum. To circumvent this problem, we studied how to combine marine electrical resistivity tomography (MERT) with geotechnical data to investigate the porosity structure from the geotechnical to the geophysical scale. We applied the technique to the submarine karstic plateau of Banc de Guérande (Saint‐Nazaire, France), which is mainly composed of hard calcarenite and sandy pockets. We obtained sections of two‐dimensional resistivity models from the MERT data inversion. We used existing geotechnical data on extracted cores at several boreholes close to the MERT profiles using a multi‐sensor core logging (MSCL) bench. We used porosity proxies derived from Archie's law and porosity data from the MSCL inferred from gamma density measurements on the core to combine the data of very different scales (metre for MERT and centimetre for MSCL). The comparison between measurements showed a good similarity between in situ MERT and borehole MSCL data at depths greater than ∼10 m below the seafloor. A larger difference was observed close to the seabed, where the MERT porosity was higher than the MSCL porosity. The extraction of water‐saturated cores and the numerous core fractures could explain this difference near the surface. The results were analysed with respect to the scale difference between geophysical and geotechnical data. The conclusions suggested that the difference between MERT and MSCL porosities could be testified from the local heterogeneity of the soil and indicated whether the surrounding substratum was more porous (and thus fractured or dissolved) than the core or vice versa. The study highlighted the necessity of an excellent collocation of the data to retrieve reliable information from the comparison between geophysical and geotechnical data.