bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chaperonin‐containing tailless complex polypeptide 1 subunit 6A correlates with increased World Health Organization grade, less isocitrate dehydrogenase mutation, and deteriorative survival of astrocytoma patients
Authors: Hu Yueyun , Fu Peng , Zhao Hongyang , Zhang Fangcheng , Jiang Xiaobing , Zhao Wohua , Lv Peng
Published: July 2021

Objective

Chaperonin‐containing tailless complex polypeptide 1 subunit 6A (CCT6A) is reported to be an efficient prognostic biomarker in various cancers, but it is rarely reported in astrocytoma. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the expression of CCT6A and its correlation with disease features and prognosis in astrocytoma patients.

Methods

Totally, 198 astrocytoma patients who received surgery treatment were enrolled. CCT6A protein expression was determined in the tumor tissues fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin (FFEP) by immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay. In addition, 133 out of 198 astrocytoma patients had fresh tumor tissues frozen in the liquid nitrogen for the determination of CCT6A mRNA expression by reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Sixty‐nine (34.8%), 70 (35.4%), 46 (23.2%), and 13 (6.6%) astrocytoma patients had the CCT6A immunohistochemistry (IHC) score of 0–3, 4–6, 7–9, and 10–12, respectively. CCT6A protein expression was correlated with increased World Health Organization (WHO) grade (P < 0.001) and less isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation (P = 0.002); meanwhile, CCT6A mRNA expression was only related to elevated WHO grade (P = 0.001). However, CCT6A protein and mRNA expression were not correlated with other clinical features and subsequent treatment modalities (all P > 0.05). Moreover, CCT6A protein high and CCT6A mRNA high were related to shorter accumulating overall survival (OS; both P < 0.05). CCT6A protein high was an independent factor for predicting the worse OS (hazard ratio: 1.821, P = 0.012).

Conclusion

Chaperonin‐containing tailless complex polypeptide 1 subunit 6A correlates with elevated WHO grade and less IDH mutation; besides, CCT6A high expression is independently associated with unfavorable accumulating OS of astrocytoma patients.
Influence of short‐term temperature drops on sex‐determination in sea turtles
Authors: Porter Ellen , Booth David T. , Limpus Colin J. , Staines Melissa N. , Smith Caitlin E.
Published: July 2021

All sea turtles exhibit temperature‐dependent sex‐determination, where warmer temperatures produce mostly females and cooler temperatures produce mostly males. As global temperatures continue to rise, sea turtle sex‐ratios are expected to become increasingly female‐biased, threatening the long‐term viability of many populations. Nest temperatures are dependent on sand temperature, and heavy rainfall events reduce sand temperatures for a brief period. However, it is unknown whether these short‐term temperature drops are large and long enough to produce male hatchlings. To discover if short‐term temperature drops within the sex‐determining period can lead to male hatchling production, we exposed green and loggerhead turtle eggs to short‐term temperature drops conducted in constant temperature rooms. We dropped incubation temperature at four different times during the sex‐determining period for a duration of either 3 or 7 days to mimic short‐term drops in temperature caused by heavy rainfall in nature. Some male hatchlings were produced when exposed to temperature drops for as little as 3 days, but the majority of male production occurred when eggs were exposed to 7 days of lowered temperature. More male hatchlings were produced when the temperature drop occurred during the middle of the sex‐determining period in green turtles, and the beginning and end of the sex‐determining period in loggerhead turtles. Inter‐clutch variation was evident in the proportion of male hatchlings produced, indicating that maternal and or genetic factors influence male hatchling production. Our findings have management implications for the long‐term preservation of sea turtles on beaches that exhibit strongly female‐biased hatchling sex‐ratios.
Effects of participation in a U.S. trial of newborn genomic sequencing on parents at risk for depression
Authors: Schwartz Talia S. , Christensen Kurt D. , Uveges Melissa K. , Waisbren Susan E. , McGuire Amy L. , Pereira Stacey , Robinson Jill O. , Beggs Alan H. , Green Robert C. ,   The BabySeq Project Team, Bachmann Gloria A. , Rabson Arnold B. , Holm Ingrid A.
Published: July 2021

Much emphasis has been placed on participant's psychological safety within genomic research studies; however, few studies have addressed parental psychological health effects associated with their child's participation in genomic studies, particularly when parents meet the threshold for clinical concern for depression. We aimed to determine if parents’ depressive symptoms were associated with their child's participation in a randomized‐controlled trial of newborn exome sequencing. Parents completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at baseline, immediately post‐disclosure, and 3 months post‐disclosure. Mothers and fathers scoring at or above thresholds for clinical concern on the EPDS, 12 and 10, respectively, indicating possible Major Depressive Disorder with Peripartum Onset, were contacted by study staff for mental health screening. Parental concerns identified in follow‐up conversations were coded for themes. Forty‐five parents had EPDS scores above the clinical threshold at baseline, which decreased by an average of 2.9 points immediately post‐disclosure and another 1.1 points 3 months post‐disclosure (both p ≤ .014). For 28 parents, EPDS scores were below the threshold for clinical concern at baseline, increased by an average of 4.7 points into the elevated range immediately post‐disclosure, and decreased by 3.8 points at 3 months post‐disclosure (both p < .001). Nine parents scored above thresholds only at 3 months post‐disclosure after increasing an average of 5.7 points from immediately post‐disclosure (p < .001). Of the 82 parents who scored above the threshold at any time point, 43 (52.4%) were reached and 30 (69.7%) of these 43 parents attributed their elevated scores to parenting stress, balancing work and family responsibilities, and/or child health concerns. Only three parents (7.0%) raised concerns about their participation in the trial, particularly their randomization to the control arm. Elevated scores on the EPDS were typically transient and parents attributed their symptomatology to life stressors in the postpartum period rather than participation in a trial of newborn exome sequencing.
Renal involvement in a patient with the chronic visceral subtype of acid sphingomyelinase deficiency resembles Fabry disease
Authors: Eskes Eline C. B. , van der Lienden Martijn J. C. , Roelofs Joris J. T. H. , Vogt Liffert , Aerts Johannes M. F. G. , Aten Jan , Hollak Carla E. M.
Published: July 2021

Acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD) is a lysosomal storage disease (LSD) in which sphingomyelin accumulates due to deficient acid sphingomyelinase. In the chronic visceral subtype, organ manifestations are generally limited to the spleen, liver, and lungs. We report a male patient with the chronic visceral subtype who developed proteinuria and renal insufficiency at the age of 49. In renal tissue, foam cells were observed in the glomeruli as well as sphingomyelin accumulation within podocytes, mesangial cells, endothelial cells, and tubular epithelial cells. Although macrophages are the primary storage cells in both ASMD and Gaucher disease, comparison to the histopathological findings in Gaucher and Fabry disease revealed a diffuse storage pattern in multiple renal cell types, closer resembling the pattern found in Fabry disease.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in 2954 COVID‐19 Adult Survivors: A Comprehensive Systematic Review
Authors: Shafiabadi Hassani Neda , Talakoob Hamed , Karim Hosein , MozafaryBazargany MohammadHossein , Rastad Hadith
Published: July 2021

Background

Recent studies have utilized MRI to determine the extent to which COVID‐19 survivors may experience cardiac sequels after recovery.

Purpose

To systematically review the main cardiac MRI findings in COVID‐19 adult survivors.

Study type

Systematic review.

Subjects

A total of 2954 COVID‐19 adult survivors from 16 studies.

Field Strength/sequence

Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), parametric mapping (T1‐native, T2, T1‐post (extracellular volume fraction [ECV]), T2‐weighted sequences (myocardium/pericardium), at 1.5 T and 3  T.

Assessment

A systematic search was performed on PubMed, Embase, and Google scholar databases using Boolean operators and the relevant key terms covering COVID‐19, cardiac injury, CMR, and follow‐up. MRI data, including (if available) T1, T2, extra cellular volume, presence of myocardial or pericardial late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and left and right ventricular ejection fraction were extracted.

Statistical Tests

The main results of the included studies are summarized. No additional statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Of 1601 articles retrieved from the initial search, 12 cohorts and 10 case series met our eligibility criteria. The rate of raised T1 in COVID‐19 adult survivors varied across studies from 0% to 73%. Raised T2 was detected in none of patients in 4 out of 15 studies, and in the remaining studies, its rate ranged from 2% to 60%. In most studies, LGE (myocardial or pericardial) was observed in COVID‐19 survivors, the rate ranging from 4% to 100%. Myocardial LGE mainly had nonischemic patterns. None of the cohort studies observed myocardial LGE in “healthy” controls. Most studies found that patients who recovered from COVID‐19 had a significantly greater T1 and T2 compared to participants in the corresponding control group.

Data Conclusion

Findings of MRI studies suggest the presence of myocardial and pericardial involvement in a notable number of patients recovered from COVID‐19.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

3
Improving efficiency in the radiation management of multiple brain metastases using a knowledge‐based planning solution for single‐isocentre volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique
Authors: O’Toole James , Picton Maddison , Perez Mario , Back Michael , Jayamanne Dasantha , Le Andrew , Wu Kenny , Brown Chris , Atyeo John
Published: July 2021

Introduction

This study aimed to develop a single‐isocentre volumetric modulated arc therapy (si‐VMAT) technique for multiple brain metastases using knowledge‐based planning software, comparing it with a multiple‐isocentre stereotactic radiosurgery (mi‐SRS) planning approach.

Methods

Twenty‐six si‐VMAT plans were created and uploaded into RapidPlanTM (RP) to create a si‐VMAT model. Ten patients, with 2 to 6 metastases (mets), were planned with a si‐VMAT technique utilising RP, and a mi‐SRS technique on Brainlab iPlan.

Paddick Conformity Index (PCI) was used to compare conformity. The volumes of the brain receiving 15Gy, 12Gy, 10Gy, 7.5Gy and 3Gy were also compared.

Retrospective treatment times from the last eight patients treated were averaged for pre‐imaging and beam on time to calculate treatment times for both techniques.

Results

There was a significant difference in the PCI scores for the mi‐SRS plans (M = 0.667, SD = 0.114) and si‐VMAT plans (M = 0.728, SD = 0.088), with PCI values suggesting better prescription dose conformity with the si‐VMAT technique (P = 0.014). Percentage of total brain volume receiving low‐dose wash at four of the five different dose levels was significantly less (P < 0.05) with mi‐SRS.

Average time to treat a single met with current mi‐SRS technique is 25.7 min, with each additional met requiring this same amount of time. The average time to treat 2–3 mets using si‐VMAT would be 25.3 min and 4+ metastases 33.5 min.

Conclusion

A knowledge‐based si‐VMAT approach was efficient in planning and treating multi metastases while achieving clinically acceptable dosimetry with respect to dose conformity and low‐dose fall off.
Contribution of bacterial cells as nucleation centers in microbiologically induced CaCO3 precipitation—A mathematical modeling approach
Authors: Šovljanski Olja , Pezo Lato , Tomić Ana , Ranitović Aleksandra , Cvetković Dragoljub , Markov Siniša
Published: July 2021

The microbiologically induced calcite precipitation (MICP) has been extensively studied for geotechnical engineering through simultaneous action of natural phenomena and engineering processes. The focus of bacterial contribution to the MICP has been directed to calcium carbonate productivity, while the additional bacterial role as a crystal nucleation center was not explained especially from a mathematical prediction modeling point of view. Therefore, this study provides explanations and a mathematical modeling approach of bacterial influence on the MICP induced by newly‐isolated ureolytic Bacillus strains and Sporosarcina pasteurii DSM 33. Using the obtained results of low‐cost, rapid, and simple assays, artificial neural network modeling was applied for cell surface predispositions, pH changes as well as calcium‐involved function in biofilm formation during the MICP, for the first time. Based on the obtained contribution of the alkalophilic/alkaloresistant bacteria, calcite precipitation can be significantly directed by the presence, of ureolytic bacterial cells as nucleation centers during CaCO3 precipitation as well as their morphology, surface characteristics, potential to form a biofilm, and/or generate pH changes.
Prognostic performance of the 2017 World Workshop classification on staging and grading of periodontitis compared with the British Society of Periodontology's implementation
Authors: Dukka Himabindu , Dietrich Thomas , Saleh Muhammad H. A. , Troiano Giuseppe , Yonel Zehra , Ravidà Andrea , Wang Hom‐Lay , Greenwell Henry , Chapple Iain L. C.
Published: July 2021

Background

The British Society of Periodontology (BSP) implemented a simplified version of the 2017 World Workshop Classification (WWC) on staging and grading of periodontitis, for use in UK clinical practice. The aim of this study was to assess the long‐term (>10 years) prognostic capability of BSP's implementation (BSP‐i) compared with the 2017 WWC, using periodontal‐related tooth loss (TLP) as a disease outcome.

Methods

Data on medical history, smoking status, and clinical periodontal parameters were retrieved from 270 patients who received non‐surgical and surgical periodontal therapy from 1966 to 2007. Each patient received a baseline diagnosis according to the 2017 WWC and the BSP‐i guidelines for implementation. Univariate multilevel Cox regression frailty models were performed to analyze the association between variables with TLP. A post‐hoc comparison with Bonferroni correction was performed to analyze interclass comparisons. The prognostic performance of both systems was analyzed using Harrell C index.

Results

The prognostic performance of both systems was very similar (0.922 for the 2017 WWC and 0.925 for the BSP‐i). The singular prognostic performance of BSP stage was slightly higher than that of 2017 WWC stage (0.9212 versus 0.9188), while the 2017 WWC grade showed a slightly better performance than BSP grade (0.9175 versus 0.9155). BSP‐i's extent performed better than the 2017 WWC extent (0.9203 versus 0.9098); however, in the 2017 WWC extent, the class “localized” was associated with a better prognosis than “generalized.”

Conclusion

The overall prognostic performance of the two systems was excellent, with both systems having a Harrell C index score of >0.92.
Structure–function relationship of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root extract–xanthan/guar gum mixture in a high sugar content system
Authors: Mardani Marieh , Yeganehzad Samira , Niazmand Razieh
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Foam‐gels are one of the most important multicomponent‐model systems in aerated confectionery, and an investigation of their microstructure is desirable. In this research, the structure–function relationship of xanthan gum/guar gum (XG/GG) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root extract powder (LEP) was investigated in a high‐sugar medium. Foam‐gel systems were prepared at 4:10% to 8:20% ratios of LEP to biopolymer.

RESULTS

The results show that increasing the LEP content reduced both the melting point and enthalpy, probably due to higher overrun and weaker junctions. Boosting the XG/GG ratio led the enhancement of mechanical properties, whereas increasing the LEP concentration weakened all textural parameters, which could be due to the poor structure of the network in the presence of the foaming agent, increased moisture content and overrun. In the whipped mixture samples containing 10 g kg−1 XG/GG, higher foaming capacity was observed. By increasing the level of biopolymers, smaller and more uniform air cells were formed according to a scanning electron microscopical study. At higher concentration of LEP, smaller bubbles and increased porosity were seen, which could be attributed to the availability of surfactant in the interfacial layer.

CONCLUSION

Maximum structural strength was achieved at a 4:20 ratio of LEP to XG/GG. In rheological experiments, pseudoplastic behavior was seen in all samples. Generally, this model system can be simulated for other herbal extracts containing natural surfactants such as saponins. Achieving a more detailed understanding of these structures and their interactions could help in formulating novel food products. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of different drying methods on the storage stability of barley grass powder
Authors: Liu Ying , Chen Weifeng , Fan Liuping
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Barley grass (BG) powder has gradually attracted researchers' attention for its abundant nutritional components and functional activity. Yet, the effect of different drying methods on storage stability is still unclear. In this study, BG was subjected to hot‐air drying (HAD), steam blanching prior to hot‐air drying (SHAD), vacuum freeze drying (VFD), and far‐infrared drying (FID). Effects of different drying methods on BG powder during storage were evaluated.

RESULTS

Moisture content of dried samples during storage decreased at 50 °C, but at 37 °C increased first and then remained stable. The a* value of SHAD BG powder before storage was the highest (−6.51), followed by FID, HAD and VFD. Moreover, the a* value increased during the storage process. Contents of l‐ascorbic acid and total chlorophyll in samples dried by VFD were 28.29 and 7.8 g kg−1, respectively. The degradation of chlorophyll a and b followed a first‐order kinetics model and was modeled by the Arrhenius equation. The activation energies for chlorophyll a were 83.68, 83.21, 62.29 and 76.64 kJ mol−1 in BG powder dried by SHAD, FID, VFD and HAD, respectively. The activation energies for chlorophyll b were 66.76, 48.03, 61.02 and 58.01 kJ mol−1 in SHAD, FID, VFD and HAD BG powder, respectively.

CONCLUSION

VFD had the highest preservation of color, l‐ascorbic acid and chlorophyll compared to HAD, SHAD and FID. SHAD shortened the drying time and delayed the degradation of l‐ascorbic acid and chlorophyll during storage. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Modified layered hand‐sewn cervical end‐to‐side anastomosis for minimally invasive McKeown esophagectomy
Authors: Cheng Liang , Fu Siqi , Liu Junhong , Wang Zhi , Fu Maoyong
Published: July 2021

Background

Minimally invasive McKeown esophagectomy (MIE McKeown) with cervical anastomosis is a widely used approach for the treatment of esophageal cancer (EC). Anastomotic leak is one of the most serious complications following esophagectomy. This study aimed to summarize the anastomosis procedure and assess the clinical outcomes of our modified layered hand‐sewn cervical end‐to‐side anastomosis for cervical anastomosis during MIE McKeown.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed clinical data of 508 consecutive EC patients who underwent MIE McKeown using the modified layered hand‐sewn cervical end‐to‐side anastomosis between June 2016 and June 2020.

Results

The incidence of anastomotic leakage in our cohort was 2.0%. The postoperative stricture rate was 6.9% and the incidence of other postoperative complications was less than 9.3%. The mean time for setting up MIE McKeown was approximately 211.0 min and the average duration of postoperative hospital stay was 9.1 days.

Conclusion

This modified layered hand‐sewn cervical end‐to‐side anastomosis is a safe and effective method for MIE McKeown with a low incidence of anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stricture, or other postoperative complications.
A Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 detection method based on nasal and nasopharyngeal lavage fluid: A pilot feasibility study
Authors: Frezza Daniele , Fabbris Cristoforo , Franz Leonardo , Vian Elisa , Rigoli Roberto , De Siati Rosalba , Emanuelli Enzo , Bertinato Luigi , Boscolo‐Rizzo Paolo , Spinato Giacomo
Published: July 2021

Objective

Nose and nasopharyngeal swab is the preferred and worldwide‐accepted method to detect the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) within the nose and nasopharynx. This method may be linked with possible difficulties, such as patient's discomfort or complications. This article shows a pilot study of SARS‐CoV‐2 detection with nasal and nasopharyngeal lavage fluids (level of evidence: 3).

Methods

Nasal lavage fluid was collected from patients who were submitted to SARS‐CoV‐2 screening test, due to a preceding positive rapid antigen test. A control group was enrolled among health care professionals whose nasopharyngeal swab tested negative. Nasal lavages were performed using isotonic saline solution injected through a nasal fossa. Both lavage fluid and traditional nasopharyngeal swab were analyzed by real‐time (RT) PCR and antigenic test.

Results

A total of 49 positive subjects were enrolled in the study. Results of the analysis on lavages and nasopharyngeal swabs were concordant for 48 cases, regardless of the antigenic and molecular test performed. RT‐PCR resulted weakly positive at swab in one case and negative at lavage fluid. Among the control group (44 subjects), nasopharyngeal swab and lavage fluid analyses returned a negative result. Sensitivity of the molecular test based on nasal lavage fluid, compared to traditional nasal swab, was 97.7%, specificity was 100%, and accuracy was 98.9%, with high agreement (Cohen's κ, 0.978).

Conclusion

Nasal and nasopharyngeal lavages resulted to be highly reliable and well tolerated. A larger series is needed to confirm these results. This approach may potentially represent a valid alternative to the traditional swab method in selected cases.

Level of Evidence

3.
Recent warming and decadal variability of Gulf of Maine and Slope Water
Authors: Seidov Dan , Mishonov Alexey , Parsons Rost
Published: July 2021

The oceanographic conditions in the Gulf of Maine, Scotian Shelf, Slope Sea, and surroundings are determined by interplay of two major circulation systems—the Gulf Stream and Labrador Current. This study aims to better understand regional long‐term climate trends caused by the Gulf Stream decadal variability. The in situ data analysis confirms a continuous slow warming within all three areas over the last five decades. It is shown that the warming accelerated in the recent 10 years coinciding with a strengthened northward incursion of warm water in the summer months. Such strong northward migration of warm water was not seen in the four preceding decades, making the current rapid warming different from previous ones. We argue that the recent decadal‐scale warming is unique and may signal that the shift of the thermal regime in this region may be at least partially caused by a changed pattern of the Gulf Stream extension zone's long‐term variability. We found that the Scotian Shelf and Slope Water region has recently been warming much faster than the Gulf of Maine, both in the subsurface (the upper ~ 50 m) and in deeper layers, indicating that the probable cause of the faster warming in the most recent decade is due to the regime change in the Gulf Stream extension region.
Co‐Axial Gyro‐Spinning of PCL/PVA/HA Core‐Sheath Fibrous Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Mahalingam Suntharavathanan , Bayram Cem , Gultekinoglu Merve , Ulubayram Kezban , Homer‐Vanniasinkam Shervanthi , Edirisinghe Mohan
Published: July 2021

The present study aspires towards fabricating core‐sheath fibrous scaffolds by state‐of‐the‐art pressurized gyration for bone tissue engineering applications. The core‐sheath fibers comprising dual‐phase poly‐ε‐caprolactone (PCL) core and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sheath are fabricated using a novel “co‐axial” pressurized gyration method. Hydroxyapatite (HA) nanocrystals are embedded in the sheath of the fabricated scaffolds to improve the performance for application as a bone tissue regeneration material. The diameter of the fabricated fiber is 3.97 ± 1.31 µm for PCL‐PVA/3%HA while pure PCL–PVA with no HA loading gives 3.03 ± 0.45 µm. Bead‐free fiber morphology is ascertained for all sample groups. The chemistry, water contact angle and swelling behavior measurements of the fabricated core‐sheath fibrous scaffolds indicate the suitability of the structures in cellular activities. Saos‐2 bone osteosarcoma cells are employed to determine the biocompatibility of the scaffolds, wherein none of the scaffolds possess any cytotoxicity effect, while cell proliferation of 94% is obtained for PCL–PVA/5%HA fibers. The alkaline phosphatase activity results suggest the osteogenic activities on the scaffolds begin earlier than day 7. Overall, adaptations of co‐axial pressurized gyration provides the flexibility to embed or encapsulate bioactive substances in core‐sheath fiber assemblies and is a promising strategy for bone healing.
Electrochemical corrosion parameters for active and passive reinforcing steel in carbonated and sound concrete
Authors: Sohail Muazzam G. , Laurens Stéphane , Deby Fabrice , Balayssac Jean P. , Al Nuaimi Nasser
Published: July 2021

The electrochemical corrosion parameters, such as corrosion potential, corrosion current density, and the Tafel constants are necessary inputs for the corrosion modeling in reinforced concrete. Literature shows large variability in their values, whereas the data are scarce for the carbonated concrete. This paper presents a range of corrosion parameters for the active steel in carbonated and the passive steel in noncarbonated concrete. Forty‐eight singly reinforced concrete cylinders were cast, of which 24 were carbonated and the others were sound samples. Potentiodynamic polarization curves were obtained at three different scan rates and extrapolated to extract the corrosion parameters. To validate these parameters, a macrocell corrosion system was simulated using FEM‐based Comsol multiphysics® software. The numerical results were compared to two experimental studies. A natural dispersion in the values of corrosion parameters for both active and passive steels was observed. The average Stern–Geary constant was 54 and 47 mV for active and passive steels, respectively. Numerical simulations with the obtained parameters predicted the macrocell corrosion in partially carbonated concrete with a high accuracy. The presented values of corrosion parameters in this study could help researchers and engineers to simulate the corrosion phenomena in concrete accurately.
The newly discovered role of endocytosis in artemisinin resistance
Authors: Behrens Hannah Michaela , Schmidt Sabine , Spielmann Tobias
Published: July 2021

Artemisinin and its derivatives (ART) are the cornerstone of malaria treatment as part of artemisinin combination therapy (ACT). However, reduced susceptibility to artemisinin as well as its partner drugs threatens the usefulness of ACTs. Single point mutations in the parasite protein Kelch13 (K13) are necessary and sufficient for the reduced sensitivity of malaria parasites to ART but several alternative mechanisms for this resistance have been proposed. Recent work found that K13 is involved in the endocytosis of host cell cytosol and indicated that this is the process responsible for resistance in parasites with mutated K13. These studies also identified a series of further proteins that act together with K13 in the same pathway, including previously suspected resistance proteins such as UBP1 and AP‐2μ. Here, we give a brief overview of artemisinin resistance, present the recent evidence of the role of endocytosis in ART resistance and discuss previous hypotheses in light of this new evidence. We also give an outlook on how the new insights might affect future research.
A brief overview of existence results and decay time estimates for a mathematical modeling of scintillating crystals
Authors: Daví Fabrizio
Published: July 2021

Inorganic scintillating crystals can be modelled as continua with microstructure. For rigid and isothermal crystals, the evolution of charge carriers becomes in this way described by a reaction‐diffusion‐drift equation coupled with the Poisson equation of electrostatic. Here, we give a survey of the available existence and asymptotic decays results for the resulting boundary value problem, the latter being a direct estimate of the scintillation decay time. We also show how to recover various approximated models which encompass also the two most used phenomenological models for scintillators, namely, the kinetic and diffusive ones. Also for these cases, we show, whenever it is possible, which existence and asymptotic decays estimate results are known to date.
Phase‐contrast acceleration mapping with synchronized encoding
Authors: Schmidt Simon , Bruschewski Martin , Flassbeck Sebastian , John Kristine , Grundmann Sven , Ladd Mark E. , Schmitter Sebastian
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To develop a phase‐contrast (PC) ‐based method for direct and unbiased quantification of the acceleration vector field by synchronization of the spatial and acceleration encoding time points. The proposed method explicitly aims at in‐vitro applications, requiring high measurement accuracy, as well as the validation of clinically relevant acceleration‐encoded sequences.

Methods

A velocity‐encoded sequence with synchronized encoding (SYNC SPI) was modified to allow direct acceleration mapping by replacing the bipolar encoding gradients with tripolar gradient waveforms. The proposed method was validated in two in‐vitro flow cases: a rotation and a stenosis phantom. The thereby obtained velocity and acceleration vector fields were quantitatively compared to those acquired with conventional PC methods, as well as to theoretical data.

Results

The rotation phantom study revealed a systematic bias of the conventional PC acceleration mapping method that resulted in an average pixel‐wise relative angle between the measured and theoretical vector field of (7.8 ± 3.2)°, which was reduced to (−0.4 ± 2.7)° for the proposed SYNC SPI method. Furthermore, flow features in the stenosis phantom were displaced by up to 10 mm in the conventional PC data compared with the acceleration‐encoded SYNC SPI data.

Conclusions

This work successfully demonstrates a highly accurate method for direct acceleration mapping. It thus complements the existing velocity‐encoded SYNC SPI method to enable the direct and unbiased quantification of both the velocity and acceleration vector field for in vitro studies. Hence, this method can be used for the validation of conventional acceleration‐encoded PC methods applicable in‐vivo.
Developing the nursing practice environment scale for home health care: A trial study in Japan
Authors: Ogata Yasuko , Fujinami Keiko , Itoh Sakiko , Kashiwagi Masayo , Lapreziosa Nobuko , Yonekura Yuki
Published: July 2021

Aim

To develop the nursing practice environment scale in home health care (NPES‐HHC), which measures the attractiveness of nursing practice environments in Japan.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The answers of 1,050 mail surveys conducted for nurses at 421 home‐visit nursing agencies in Japan were analysed. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of the NPES‐HHC’s candidate items were performed. Relationships between the newly developed NPES‐HHC and participants’ intention to remain at the workplace, job satisfaction and quality of care were also tested.

Results

A seven‐dimensional model with 37 items was obtained by exploratory factor analysis (Cronbach's alpha: 0.77–0.92). Confirmatory factor analysis supported this model. NPES‐HHC scores had significant positive relations with participants’ intention to remain at the workplace, job satisfaction and quality of care (p < .01). The NPES‐HHC is a reliable and valid instrument to assess the attractiveness of the practice environment for home‐visit nursing agencies.
Two pathways and an isotope effect in H3+ formation following double ionization of methanol
Authors: Gope Krishnendu , Livshits Ester , Bittner Dror M. , Baer Roi , Strasser Daniel
Published: July 2021

The trihydrogen ion has a central role in creating complex molecules in the interstellar medium. Therefore, its formation and destruction mechanisms in high photon energy environments involving organic molecules are drawing significant experimental and theoretical attention. Here, we employ a combination of time‐resolved ultrafast extreme‐ultraviolet pump and near‐infrared probe spectroscopy applied to the deuterated CH3OD methanol molecule. Similar to other double‐ionization studies, the isotopic labeling reveals two competing pathways for forming trihydrogen: A) and B) . We validate our high‐level ab initio nonadiabatic molecular dynamic simulations by showing that it closely reproduces the essential features of the measured kinetic energy release distribution and branching ratios of the two pathways of the deuterated system. The success of ab initio simulation in describing single photon double‐ionization allows for an unprecedented peek into the formation pathways for the undeuterated species, beyond present experimental reach. For this case, we find that the kinetic energy release of pathway B shifts to lower energies by more than 0.6 eV due to a dynamical isotope effect. We also determine the mechanism for trihydrogen formation from excited states of the dication and elucidate the isotope effect's role in the observed dynamics.
Association of gastric emptying with postprandial appetite and satiety sensations in obesity
Authors: Gonzalez‐Izundegui Daniel , Campos Alejandro , Calderon Gerardo , Ricardo‐Silgado Maria L. , Cifuentes Lizeth , Decker Paul A. , Vargas Eric J. , Tran Linh , Burton Duane , Abu Dayyeh Barham , Camilleri Michael , Eckel‐Passow Jeanette E. , Acosta Andres
Published: July 2021

Objective

Satiety, defined as the duration of the sensation of fullness, is usually measured by validated visual analog scales (VAS) for appetite. Gastric function plays a key role in food intake regulation. However, the association between gastric emptying (GE) and VAS appetite is unknown.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 134 participants (mean [SEM] age = 39 [0.8] years, mean [SEM] BMI = 38 [0.5] kg/m2, 67% females) completed simultaneous measurements of GE and VAS appetite. After a 320‐kcal meal, GE was measured by scintigraphy and appetite by validated 100‐mm VAS for 240 minutes. Satiation was defined as calories consumed to terminate meal and was measured by an ad libitum meal. GE, VAS, and ad libitum meal tests were measured on the same day. Percent of meal retention in the stomach, VAS area under curve (AUC0‐240 min), and overall appetite score (OAS) were calculated. Pearson correlation (ρ) determined the association of GE with VAS appetite and satiation. Appetite components were also analyzed by quartiles based on GE120 min.

Results

GE120 min was correlated with sensation of VAS hungerAUC(0‐240 min) (ρ = 0.24, p = 0.004), fullnessAUC(0‐240 min) (ρ = 0.16, p = 0.05), and OASAUC(0‐240 min) (ρ = 0.20, p = 0.02). Patients with rapid GE120 min had a mean increase in VAS hungerAUC(0‐240 min) by 32 mm/min (15.62%, p = 0.03) compared with normal/slow GE120 min.

Conclusions

GE is associated with the sensations of appetite, and rapid GE is associated with increased appetite, which may contribute to weight gain.
Review: materials and modelling for organic photovoltaic devices
Authors: Doat Olivier , Barboza Bruno H , Batagin‐Neto Augusto , Bégué Didier , Hiorns Roger C
Published: July 2021

This review gives a simple and pedagogical introduction to the field of materials and their modelling for the active layer in organic photovoltaic devices. It gives a perspective on past work and a summary of the current state of the art. Given the extremely fast changes on‐going in this field, it is hoped that this contribution will serve as both a timely snapshot and a pedagogical entry point to this fascinating subject. Furthermore, an example is given of how modelling can enhance the understanding of the structures and qualities of materials using a leading low‐bandgap polymer donor and non‐fullerene acceptor pair (PM6 and Y6). © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
DDASSQ: An open‐source, multiple peptide sequencing strategy for label free quantification based on an OpenMS pipeline in the KNIME analytics platform
Authors: Svecla Monika , Garrone Giulia , Faré Fiorenza , Aletti Giacomo , Norata Giuseppe Danilo , Beretta Giangiacomo
Published: July 2021

In this study we investigated the performance of a computational pipeline for protein identification and label free quantification (LFQ) of LC–MS/MS data sets from experimental animal tissue samples, as well as the impact of its specific peptide search combinatorial approach. The full pipeline workflow was composed of peptide search engine adapters based on different identification algorithms, in the frame of the open‐source OpenMS software running within the KNIME analytics platform. Two different in silico tryptic digestion, database‐search assisted approaches (X!Tandem and MS‐GF+), de novo peptide sequencing based on Novor and consensus library search (SpectraST), were tested for the processing of LC‐MS/MS raw data files obtained from proteomic LC‐MS experiments done on proteolytic extracts from mouse ex vivo liver samples. The results from proteomic LFQ were compared to those based on the application of the two software tools MaxQuant and Proteome Discoverer for protein inference and label‐free data analysis in shotgun proteomics. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD025097.
Cold plasma for insect pest control: Tribolium castaneum mortality and defense mechanisms in response to treatment
Authors: Ziuzina Dana , van Cleynenbreugel Robin , Tersaruolo Claudio , Bourke Paula
Published: July 2021

The insecticidal properties and mechanisms of high‐voltage air‐based atmospheric cold plasma using a contained dielectric barrier discharge reactor were investigated against Tribolium castaneum as an important bio‐contaminant in stored grains spoilage. The mortality of 95.0%–100% for preadult stages can be achieved within seconds of treatment, but longer plasma exposure (5 min) is required to kill adult insects. Cold plasma treatment reduces both the respiration rate and the weight of insects and affects the levels of oxidative stress markers in adult populations. Sufficient toxicity is achievable through plasma process control in air to address the range of insect lifecycle stages that are disease vectors and pose risks for grain stability in storage. Balancing insecticidal activity with grains' quality retention can provide a route to sustainable integrated pest management.
Benchmarking of structure refinement methods for protein complex models
Authors: Verburgt Jacob , Kihara Daisuke
Published: July 2021

Protein structure docking is the process in which the quaternary structure of a protein complex is predicted from individual tertiary structures of the protein subunits. Protein docking is typically performed in two main steps. The subunits are first docked while keeping them rigid to form the complex, which is then followed by structure refinement. Structure refinement is crucial for a practical use of computational protein docking models, as it is aimed for correcting conformations of interacting residues and atoms at the interface. Here, we benchmarked the performance of eight existing protein structure refinement methods in refinement of protein complex models. We show that the fraction of native contacts between subunits is by far the most straightforward metric to improve. However, backbone dependent metrics, based on the Root Mean Square Deviation proved more difficult to improve via refinement.
The therapeutic effects of naringenin on bronchial pneumonia in children
Authors: Yao Wenjing , Zhang Xiaopeng , Xu Feng , Cao Chunxia , Liu Tongtong , Xue Yuanyuan
Published: July 2021

Bronchial pneumonia in children is a common infectious disease in toddlers and infants, which may cause hyperpyrexia, pulmonary moist rales, and even respiratory failure. Traditional drugs for bronchial pneumonia in children often lead to drug resistance and side effects. Recently, naringenin has been reported to be a potential treatment for several airway inflammatory diseases due to its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐microbial activities. The current clinical study aimed to evaluate the safety and therapeutic effect of naringenin in treating bronchial pneumonia in children. A total of 180 eligible patients were randomly assigned into naringenin (NAR) group and azithromycin (AZI) group. All participants were required to follow a 5‐day oral administration, and their serum cytokine levels were measured during the clinical intervention. After the treatment, the disappearance time of clinical symptoms, and the incidences of complications and adverse reactions were compared between the two groups. Naringenin was able to inhibit inflammation, shorten the disappearance time of clinical symptoms, reduce the incidences of bronchial pneumonia complications and related adverse reactions, and improve the health conditions of the patients. Our results suggested that naringenin was safe and beneficial to children with bronchial pneumonia, providing new insights into the clinical application of naringenin.
Bio‐based clothianidin‐loaded solid dispersion using composite carriers to improve efficacy and reduce environmental toxicity
Authors: Guo Yongfei , Ren Lirui , Li Xiaolong , Wang Zhao , Zhang Yanning , Zhang Shuai , Tang Tao , Chen Fuliang , Du Fengpei
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Neonicotinoids comprise one of the most extensively used classes of pesticides worldwide owing to their broad insecticidal spectrum and excellent biological performance. However, their toxicity to honeybee (Apis mellifera Linnaeus) and silkworm (Bombyx Mori) limits their further application. To address this issue, clothianidin as a model neonicotinoid was developed into a novel controlled‐release formulation employing advantaged solid dispersion (SD) technology using composite carriers.

RESULTS

In this research, the clothianidin‐loaded SD was characterized using integrated methods to elucidate its formation mechanism, showing that clothianidin was embedded into the carrier homogeneously in small crystalline entities. The composite carriers, which are both renewable and environmentally friendly, can significantly prolong the release of clothianidin from seven to 25 days, compared with that of PEG 8000 as a single carrier. Based on the excellent controlled release profiles, it reduced the acute toxicity to A. mellifera and B. mori by 57.68‐ and 85.32‐fold (respectively) compared with that of the conventional formulation. Furthermore, the SD displayed favorable efficacy and persistency against Asian citrus psyllid (Hemiptera: Psyllidae).

CONCLUSION

This novel strategy opens up a simple and powerful avenue for improving efficacy and promoting the environmental safety of neonicotinoid insecticides to be used in sustainable crop protection.
Magnesium Diffusion from MgO Substrates in Sol–Gel‐Derived NiO Epitaxial Films: Effects of Heat Treatment Temperature and Li Doping
Authors: Kokubun Yoshihiro , Koyanagi Masato , Nakagomi Shinji
Published: July 2021

The effects of heat treatment temperature and Li doping on the structural properties of sol–gel‐derived NiO epitaxial films on MgO (100) substrates are investigated. X‐ray diffraction measurements indicate that the out‐of‐plane lattice parameters of undoped NiO films increase as the heat treatment temperature increases. This increase is particularly significant in films treated above 900 °C, in which out‐of‐plane and in‐plane lattice parameters are larger than the expected values for bulk NiO. This result cannot be explained by the strain originating in the lattice mismatch between NiO and MgO. In addition, the bandgap drastically increases in undoped films treated above 900 °C. Secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profiling demonstrates that undoped films treated above 900 °C are Ni1−xMgxO alloys generated by the diffusion of Mg from MgO substrates into NiO films, resulting in the anomalous characteristics of the prepared films. Furthermore, it indicates that the diffusion of Mg is reduced in Li‐doped films, which can be explained on the basis of defect chemistry, in which Ni vacancies decrease with the increase in Li concentration. Consequently, the increases in the lattice parameter and bandgap at high heat treatment temperatures are reduced in Li‐doped films.
Metal–Insulator Transition via Ion Irradiation in Epitaxial La0.7Sr0.3MnO3−δ Thin Films
Authors: Cao Lei , Herklotz Andreas , Rata Diana , Yin Chenyang , Petracic Oleg , Kentsch Ulrich , Helm Manfred , Zhou Shengqiang
Published: July 2021

Complex oxides provide rich physics related to ionic defects. For the proper tuning of functionalities in oxide heterostructures, it is highly desired to develop fast, effective, and low‐temperature routes for the dynamic modification of defect concentration and distribution. Herein, the use of helium implantation to efficiently control the vacancy profiles in epitaxial La0.7Sr0.3MnO3−δ thin films is reported. The viability of this approach is supported by lattice expansion in the out‐of‐plane lattice direction and dramatic change in physical properties, i.e., a transition from ferromagnetic metallic to antiferromagnetic insulating. In particular, a significant increase of resistivity up to four orders of magnitude is evidenced at room temperature, upon implantation of highly energetic He ions. The result offers an attractive means for tuning the emergent physical properties of oxide thin films via strong coupling between strain, defects, and valence.
Additive Manufacturing of Permanent Magnets Based on (CoCuFeZr)17Sm2
Authors: Goll Dagmar , Trauter Felix , Braun Philipp , Laukart Judith , Loeffler Ralf , Golla-Schindler Ute , Schneider Gerhard
Published: July 2021

Lab‐scale additive manufacturing of (CoCuFeZr)17Sm2‐based powder is carried out to realize CoSm‐printed parts with hard magnetic properties.  For manufacturing a special inert gas, process chamber for laser powder bed fusion is used. A three‐step annealing procedure analogous to sintered magnets is applied. This leads to a coercivity of 2.77 T, remanence of 0.78 T, and maximum energy density of 109.4 kJ m−3 for the printed parts. Compared with an isotropic sintered magnet of comparable composition and annealing procedure, the coercivity is of the same order. Due to the texture of the printed parts, the remanence is 24 % larger.
High‐Throughput Electronic Structures and Ferroelectric Interfaces of HfO2 by GGA+U(d,p) Calculations
Authors: Guo Yuzheng , Zhang Zhaofu , Robertson John
Published: July 2021

The electronic structure, vacancy symmetry, defect levels, ferroelectric phases, and interface properties of HfO2 are studied using a GGA + U(d,p) approach, a simplified version of the ACBN0 method. Introducing an on‐site Coulomb interaction to both Hf 5d orbitals and O 2p orbitals reproduces the experimental bandgap, gives band energies similar to those of hybrid functionals, gives the correct symmetry for the oxygen vacancy, and describes the Schottky barriers at the metallic contacts like TiN correctly. The energetics of phase energies and strain arising from different ferroelectric–electrode interfaces are tested. The GGA + U(d,p) approach is a useful tool to study various HfO2 configurations by rapid ab initio molecular dynamics calculations.