bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure assessment of PFAS-contaminated sites using avian eggs as a biomonitoring tool: A frame of reference and a case study in the Po River valley (Northern Italy)
Authors: Morganti Michelangelo , Polesello Stefano , Pascariello Simona , Ferrario Claudia , Rubolini Diego , Valsecchi Sara , Parolini Marco
Published: March 2021

For many years, eggs of diverse bird species have been used as monitoring tools in studies investigating perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination, especially in marine and remote areas. Avian eggs are a suitable monitoring matrix because they are relatively easy to collect and their yolks store diverse maternally transferred PFAS. Moreover, the concentrations of PFAS detected in the eggs are a good proxy for maternal exposure and allow the assessment of the potential risk for birds. These features support the use of avian eggs as a key monitoring tool in exposure assessment of PFAS-contaminated sites. We first review the recent application of avian eggs in PFAS monitoring in environmental risk assessment schemes, highlighting strengths and limitations and suggesting which criteria should be considered when selecting a proper study species and structuring the sampling and analytical protocol. Eventually, we report findings from a field study realized in 2020 near a perfluoropolymer factory site in the upper Po plain (Northern Italy), revealing an unprecedented contamination level of PFOA and C6O4 in three species of wild passerines. In future, long-term monitoring of PFAS contamination using avian eggs should be maintained, to provide crucial information on the temporal trend of fluorochemical production and waste disposal, while facilitating early identification of emerging PFAS as well as the quantification of their biomagnification across the trophic web. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:733–745. © 2021 SETAC

KEY POINTS

Bird eggs are a valuable indicator of PFAS contamination in exposure assessment of contaminated sites, because the concentrations of PFAS detected in the eggs are a good proxy of maternal exposure and allow the assessment of the potential risk for birds. Results of PFAS levels in eggs of wild birds collected around a fluoropolymer industrial site (Northern Italy) revealed an unprecedented contamination level of PFOA and its recently introduced alternative, C6O4, in three species of wild passerines. Long-term monitoring of PFAS contamination using avian eggs provides crucial information on the temporal trend of contaminated sites, facilitating early identification of emerging PFAS as well as the quantification of their biomagnification across the trophic web.
Application of the original site point method in determining a baseline for two different types of sites in northern China
Authors: Fu Jinxiang , Wei Jianyu , Li Ting , Tang Yulan , Ren Yue , Guo Qixuan
Published: March 2021

Determining an ecological and environment damage baseline is the foundation of natural resource damage assessment. In complex damage assessment, the importance of a baseline is often underestimated or ignored. Existing baseline determination methods are insufficiently accurate and poorly available in practical application, which affect the damage assessment work. Based on the definition of baseline and the shortcomings of existing baseline-determination methods, this paper suggests the original site point (OSP) method as a determination principle. The baseline calculation area can be directly determined according to the site conditions in a sludge storage site with clear pollution distribution, and the OSP method has the advantage of determining the baseline rapidly. For a waste oil sludge storage site with unclear pollution distribution, the baseline calculation area should be determined according to preliminary and detailed sampling data. The calculation results of the two sites indicate that the baseline determined using the OSP method and the reference point (RP) method are similar, and the results of the environmental standard (ES) method are superior to those of the other two methods. The order of accuracy of baseline determination methods is the historical data (HD) method > the OSP method > the RP method > the model calculation (MC) method > the ES method. Through two application cases, this paper discusses the applicability of the OSP method and finally establishes the determination steps of the method. The OSP method has proven effective in determining the baseline, and the fast and accurate baseline determination method is more helpful for damage assessment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:1263–1273. © 2021 SETAC

KEY POINTS

We propose a new method, the original site point method, in view of the shortcomings of existing baseline determination methods and definition of baseline. We use different methods to determine the baseline by taking two typical sites in Northern China as examples. We analyze the rapidity and accuracy of different methods to determine the baseline. The determination steps of the original site point method are obtained according to different site conditions, and the application prospect of the method is analyzed.
Preparation of multilayer electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds containing soluble eggshell membrane as potential dermal substitute
Authors: Amirsadeghi Armin , Khorram Mohammad , Hashemi Seyeddeh‐Sara
Published: March 2021

Electrospinning of natural and synthetic polymers has shown to be a great candidate for the fabrication of tissue engineering scaffolds due to their similarity to the nanofibrous structure of natural extracellular matrix (ECM). Moreover, the addition of ECM‐like proteins could enhance the biocompatibility of these scaffolds. In this study, soluble eggshell protein (SEP) was first extracted and synthesized from the raw eggshell membrane. The characteristics and biocompatibility of the extracted SEP were evaluated using attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) analysis and 3‐(4,5‐ dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) (MTT) assay. For scaffolds fabrication, a three‐layer nanofibrous composite structure was produced using the electrospinning technique. The outer layers composed of polyvinyl alcohol, chitosan, and extracted SEP while the middle layer composed of polyethylene oxide, gelatin, and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs). For each layer, the electrospinning parameters were adjusted to form bead‐free fibers. To improve fibers' stability against body fluids, the produced fibers were crosslinked using glutaraldehyde vapor. Several techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray, ATR‐FTIR, swelling, tensile test, in vitro biodegradation, and MTT assay were implemented to evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological characterization of the fabricated fibers. The results showed that crosslinked fibers have adequate stability in water, suitable mechanical properties, and promising water uptake capacity. The MTT results also revealed that SEP and ZnO‐NPs could increase scaffolds biocompatibility. Moreover, SEM photographs of cultured fibroblasts cells on the scaffolds showed that cells were well attached on the scaffolds and preserve their natural spindle shapes. Altogether, our findings demonstrated that the produced three‐layer composite scaffolds are potential candidates for skin tissue engineering.
Retracted: A new Co(II)‐coordination polymer: Photocatalytic studies and treatment values on mania by reducing the ErbB4 expression on the noradrenergic neurons
Authors: Zhou Yun‐Shan , Wang Jia , Lin Xiao‐Fang , Jiang Qiuhua , Zhu Jian‐Nan
Published: March 2021

A novel coordination polymer based on Co(II) has been generated utilizing the 4,4′,4″‐phosphanetriyltribenzoic acid (H3tpp) as the tritopic connector in the existence of a second N‐donor ligand 3,3′‐bipyridine (3,3′‐bpy) under the solvothermal reaction conditions, and its chemical formula is [Co3(tpp)2(3,3′‐bpy)]·7DMF (1). Moreover, under ultraviolet irradiation, complex 1 has high photocatalytic activities for methylene blue degradation, and its photodegradation performance does not show much reduction after three cycles of experiments. Furthermore, the compound's biological activity against the mania was assessed, and the protentional mechanism was discussed. First, the neuroregulin1 content in the hippocampus was detected via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to evaluate the compound's treatment activity on mania. Then, the ErbB4 relative expression levels were detected using real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. The carboxyl groups have been confirmed to be responsible for all the binding interactions formed by molecular docking simulation.
Green synthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles using leaf extract of Berberis balochistanica: Characterization, and diverse biological applications
Authors: Uddin Siraj , Safdar Luqman Bin , Iqbal Javed , Yaseen Tabassum , Laila Sabiha , Anwar Saeed , Abbasi Banzeer Ahsan , Saif Muhammad Saqib , Quraishi Umar Masood
Published: March 2021

In current report, nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONPs) were synthesized using leaf extract of Berberis balochistanica (BB) an endemic medicinal plant. The BB leaves extract act as a strong reducing, stabilizing, and capping agent in the synthesis of BB@NiONPs. Further, BB@NiONPs were characterized using Uv–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and average size was calculated ~21.7 nm). Multiple in vitro biological activities were performed to determine their therapeutic potentials. The BB@NiONPs showed strong antioxidant activities in term of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) with scavenging potential of 69.98 and 59.59% at 200 μg/ml, respectively. The antibacterial and antifungal testes were examined using different bacterial and fungal strains and dose‐dependent inhibition response was reported. Laterally, cytotoxic and phytotoxic activities were studied using brine shrimp and radish seeds. The result determined potential cytotoxic activity with LD50 value (49.10 μg/ml) and outstanding stimulatory effect of BB@NiONPs on seed germination at lower concentrations as compared to control. Overall, result concluded that biosynthesis of NiONPs using leaf extracts of Berberis balochistanica is cheap, easy, and safe method and could be used in biomedical and agriculture field as nanomedicine and nano fertilizer.
Fetal and placental infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 in early pregnancy
Authors: Valdespino‐Vázquez María Y. , Helguera‐Repetto Cecilia A. , León‐Juárez Moises , Villavicencio‐Carrisoza Oscar , Flores‐Pliego Arturo , Moreno‐Verduzco Elsa R. , Díaz‐Pérez Diana L. , Villegas‐Mota Isabel , Carrasco‐Ramírez Elba , López‐Martínez Irma E. , Giraldo‐Gómez David M. , Lira Rosalia , Yocupicio‐Monroy Martha , Rodríguez‐Bosch Mario , Sevilla‐Reyes Edgar E. , Cortés‐Bonilla Manuel , Acevedo‐Gallegos Sandra , Merchant‐Larios Horacio , Cardona‐Pérez Jorge Arturo , Irles Claudine
Published: March 2021

To date, mother‐to‐fetus transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, remains controversial. Although placental COVID‐19 infection has been documented in some cases during the second‐ and third‐trimesters, no reports are available for the first trimester of pregnancy, and no SARS‐CoV‐2 protein has been found in fetal tissues. We studied the placenta and fetal organs from an early pregnancy miscarriage in a COVID‐19 maternal infection by immunohistochemical, reverse transcription quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopy methods. SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid protein, viral RNA, and particles consistent with coronavirus were found in the placenta and fetal tissues, accompanied by RNA replication revealed by double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) positive immunostain. Prominent damage of the placenta and fetal organs were associated with a hyperinflammatory process identified by histological examination and immunohistochemistry. The findings provided in this study document that congenital SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is possible during the first trimester of pregnancy and that fetal organs, such as lung and kidney, are targets for coronavirus. The infection and multi‐organic fetal inflammation produced by SARS‐CoV‐2 during early pregnancy should alert clinicians in the assessment and management of pregnant women for possible fetal consequences and adverse perinatal outcomes.
Dissemination and evolution of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the early pandemic phase in South America
Authors: Wolf Jonas Michel , Streck André Felipe , Fonseca André , Ikuta Nilo , Simon Daniel , Lunge Vagner Ricardo
Published: March 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) pandemic spread rapidly and this scenario is concerning in South America, mainly in Brazil with more than seven million cases of infection. Three major pandemic lineages/clades could be identified along with SARS‐CoV‐2 dissemination (G, GR, and GH) in the Americas. These clades differ according to their genomic characteristics, virulence, and spreading times. The present study describes the main clades and the respective temporal spreading analyses based on SARS‐CoV‐2 whole‐genome sequences (WGS) from South America, obtained in the early pandemic phase (from March 1 to May 31 in 2020). SARS‐CoV‐2 WGSs with available information from country and year of sampling were obtained from different countries and the main clades were identified and analyzed independently with a Bayesian approach. The results demonstrated the prevalence of clades GR (n = 842; 54.6%), G (n = 529; 34.3%), and GH (n = 171; 11.1%). The frequencies of the clades were significantly different between South American countries. Clade G was the most prevalent in Ecuador, Suriname, and Uruguay, clade GR in Argentina, Brazil, and Peru, and clade GH in Colombia. The phylodynamic analysis indicated that all these main lineages increased viral spreading from February to early March and after an evolutionary stationary phase was observed. The decrease observed in the virus dissemination was directly associated to the reduction of social movement after March. In conclusion, these data demonstrated the current predominance of clades G, GR, and GH in South America because of the early dissemination of them in the first pandemic phase in South America.
The influence of the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation on the interdecadal variability of winter precipitation in the Greater Mekong Subregion
Authors: Gui Shu , Yang Ruowen , Cao Jie , Tan Shucheng , Janjai Serm , Dong Zeyu
Published: March 2021

In this study, we investigated the interdecadal variability (IDV) of winter precipitation in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) between 1892 and 2016. The results showed that the precipitation IDV was characterized mainly by opposite variations between the southern and northern parts of GMS. This IDV pattern was closely linked to the Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO). Rossby waves excited by the AMO modulated the atmospheric circulation across Eurasia, inducing an EU‐like teleconnection with alternating cyclonic and anticyclonic anomalies across Eurasia. The GMS was directly affected by the anticyclonic anomaly over East Asia. This anticyclonic anomaly had dual effects on the GMS precipitation. Firstly, it caused a descending anomaly over the northern GMS and generated easterly anomalies that impeded the moisture transport from the northern BOB. Secondly, it strengthened the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) that weakened the western North Pacific anticyclone (WNPAC) to facilitate moisture transport from South China Sea to the southern GMS. Consequently, the precipitation varied inversely between the southern and northern parts of GMS. Numerical experiments confirmed the causal link between the AMO and IDV of winter precipitation in the GMS.
Surface Activity and Performance Properties of Gemini Salts of Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Smith George A. , Huggett Alicia , Jones Christian , Ortego Gabe
Published: March 2021

Gemini salts of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LABS) were prepared by neutralization of sulfonic acid with a series of low‐molecular‐weight diamines in aqueous solution. The equilibrium surface activity of Gemini salts of LABS was determined by measuring the surface tension as a function of surfactant concentration to determine the critical micelle concentration (CMC), surface tension at the CMC (γCMC), and the area per molecule at the air‐water interface (Å2). Electrical conductivity was measured as a function of surfactant concentration to determine the CMC and counterion binding. Dynamic surface tension was measured using a bubble pressure tensiometer to infer the rate at which the surfactant migrates to the air‐water interface. Equilibrium interfacial tension against mineral oil was measured using a spinning drop tensiometer. Dynamic interfacial tension was measured using a drop volume tensiometer. The surface tension, CMC, and interfacial tension of Gemini salts of LABS decreased compared to monovalent organic and inorganic salts. The CMC decreases with increasing molecular weight of the diamine spacer group. Dynamic surface and interfacial tension of Gemini salts of LABS are lower than monovalent salts. The foam volume of Gemini salts of LABS was determined using a high shear blender test. The foam volume of Gemini salts of LABS is lower than monovalent salts and depends on the size of the spacer group. Hard‐surface cleaning was measured using artificial soil applied to white Formica tiles. Soil removal was determined by optical reflectance as a function of abrasion cycles. Gemini salts of LABS show reduced hard‐surface cleaning performance compared to monovalent salts. Detergency of different types of soils on cotton and polyester/cotton fabric was determined by optical reflectance measurements. Gemini salts of LABS show improved cleaning performance compared to monovalent salts. Cleaning performance increases with increasing molecular weight of the diamine spacer group. In situ neutralization of LABS with organic diamines is a simple and efficient way to prepare anionic Gemini surfactants for industrial scale applications.
Subjective assessment of display stream compression for stereoscopic imagery
Authors: Mohona Sanjida Sharmin , Wilcox Laurie M. , Allison Robert S.
Published: March 2021

High‐resolution display bandwidth requirements often now exceed the capacity of display link channels necessitating compression. The goal of visually lossless compression codecs such as VESA DSC 1.2 is that viewers perceive no difference between the compressed and uncompressed images, maintaining long‐standing expectations of a lossless display link. Such low impairment performance is difficult to validate as artifacts are at or below sensory threshold. We have developed a 3D version of the ISO/IEC 29170‐2 flicker paradigm and used it to compare the effects of image compression in flat images presented in the plane of the screen (2D) to compression in flat images with a disparity offset from the screen (3D). We hypothesized that differences in the location and size of the compression errors between the disparate images in the 3D case would affect their visibility. The results showed that artifacts were often less visible in 3D compared to 2D viewing. These findings have practical applications with respect to codec performance targets and algorithm development for 3D movie, animation, and virtual reality content. In particular, higher compression should be attainable in stereoscopic compared to equivalent 2D images because of increased tolerance to artifacts that are binocularly unmatched or have disparity relative to the screen.
The predictive value of systemic immune inflammation index for postoperative survival of gallbladder carcinoma patients
Authors: Chen Hao , Huang Zhiwei , Sun Bo , Wang Ankang , Wang Yanrong , Shi Hao , Zheng Tianxiang , Li Tongxi , Huang Meizhou , Fu Wenguang
Published: March 2021

Background

Growing evidence indicates that systemic immune inflammation index (SII) can predict the prognosis of various solid tumors. The objective of this study aimed to investigate the efficacy of SII in predicting the prognosis of gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) patients after radical surgery.

Methods

A consecutive series of 93 patients with GBC who underwent radical resection were enrolled in the retrospective study. The cutoff value for the SII was calculated using the time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis by overall survival (OS) prediction. The associations between the SII and the clinicopathologic characteristics were analyzed using Pearson's χ2 test and Fisher's exact test. Survival curves were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Univariate analysis was performed to evaluate the prognostic relevance of preoperative parameters. The multivariate Cox regression proportional hazard model was used to assess variables significant on univariate analysis.

Results

The Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and the multivariate analysis of patients with GBC who received radical resection showed SII independently predicted OS. The univariate analysis showed that the TNM stage, SII, CA19‐9, ALP, prealbumin, NLR, MLR, lymph node metastasis, and histopathological type were all associated with overall survival. In time‐dependent ROC analysis, the area of the SII‐CA19‐9 under the ROC curve (AUC) was higher than that of the preoperative SII or CA19‐9 levels for the prediction of OS.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that high SII was a predictor of poor long‐term outcomes among patients with GBC undergoing curative surgery. SII‐CA19‐9 classification may be more effective in predicting the postoperative prognosis of GBC patients.
Is osseous reattachment of the greater trochanter necessary compared to soft‐tissue‐only abductor repair in proximal femoral megaprosthesis reconstruction?
Authors: Groundland John , Brown Jeffrey M. , Jones Kevin B. , Randall R. Lor
Published: March 2021

Background

One of the challenges to surgical reconstruction following oncologic proximal femur resection is reliable re‐establishment of the abductor mechanism. Surgical and functional outcomes following re‐approximation of the abductor mechanism to a metallic endoprosthetic after tumor resection of the proximal femur have not been well established in the literature.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed, inclusive of patients who received a proximal femur replacement with a metallic endoprosthesis following tumor resection. Patients were divided into two groups: (1) those that received an abductor repair involving a trochanteric osteotomy and osseous fixation of the greater trochanter/abductor mechanism to the endoprosthesis, and (2) those that did not have a trochanteric osteotomy and therefore had an abductor repair consisting of only soft tissue reattachment to the endoprosthesis. The two groups were assessed for demographic characteristics, diagnosis, surgical outcomes including rates of complication and failure, radiographic evidence of trochanteric failure, and functional outcomes. Descriptive statistics, comparative statistics, and logistic regression analyses were performed to discern differences between the two study groups.

Results

Fifty‐three patients were included in the analysis, 29 had abductor reconstructions involving reattachment of the greater trochanter to the metallic endoprosthesis and 24 had soft tissue reconstruction of the abductor mechanism without bony fixation. There were no differences between the two groups for demographic data, cancer diagnosis, follow up, or survivorship. Radiographic evidence of trochanteric dissociation from the endoprosthesis was observed in 45% of osteotomy cases. Only 10% of patients in the trochanter osteotomy group and 38% of the soft tissue only group were able to resume a normal, non‐Trendelenburg gait at final postoperative visit (p = .024). Need for an assistive ambulatory device was seen in 83% and 67% of the osteotomy and soft‐tissue‐only patients, respectively (p = .21).

Conclusion

Re‐establishing the abductor mechanism following proximal femur oncologic resection remains a challenge to orthopedic oncologists. Even when possible, salvage of the greater trochanter for reattachment to the endoprosthesis did not lead to improved function in this series, when compared to a similar cohort that received a soft‐tissue‐only abductor repair. Abductor mechanism reconstruction with a greater trochanteric osteotomy and subsequent fixation to the proximal femur endoprosthesis had a high rate of radiographic failure. Additionally, reattachment of the greater trochanter to the proximal femur endoprosthesis demonstrated no improvement in Trendelenburg gait or reliance on an assistive ambulatory device when compared to a soft‐tissue‐only abductor repair.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children Under 3 Years of Age
Authors: Rayasam Swathi , Johnson Romaine , Lenahan Danielle , Abijay Claire , Mitchell Ron B.
Published: March 2021

Objective

To identify predictors of severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children under 3 years of age and to compare demographics, comorbidities, and polysomnographic characteristics of infants and toddlers with OSA.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

We examined children under 3 years of age who had polysomnogram between August 2012 and March 2020. Demographics, clinical, and polysomnographic parameters were compared in children age 0–1 versus 1–3 years and 0–2 versus 2–3 years and severe versus mild–moderate OSA. Univariate analysis was used to compare age groups; multiple logistic regression for predictors of severe OSA. Significance was set at P < .05.

Results

Of the 413 children, 267 (65%) were male and 131 (32%) obese. The population included Hispanic (41%), African American (28%), and Caucasian (25%) children. A total of 98.5% had OSA and 35% had severe OSA. Children under 1 year of age more commonly had gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (38% vs. 23%; P = .014); tonsillar hypertrophy was more common in children over 2 years of age (56% vs. 34%, P = .001). Down syndrome (odds ratio (OR): 3.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.14–8.68, P = .026) and tonsillar hypertrophy (OR: 1.97, 95% CI = 1.28–3.02, P = .002) were predictors of severe OSA.

Conclusion

Children under 3 years of age with OSA are more likely to be male and have GERD. Down syndrome and tonsillar hypertrophy are predictors of severe OSA, and children with these conditions should be prioritized for polysomnography.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E2603–E2608, 2021
Spontaneous succession on road verges—An effective approach with minimum effort
Authors: Janečková Petra , Řehounková Klára , Vítovcová Kamila , Šebelíková Lenka , Prach Karel
Published: March 2021

Road verges represent new habitats providing an opportunity for enhancing biodiversity in human‐altered landscapes. However, it is common practice to plant trees or sow species‐poor seed mixtures regardless of their geographical origin. We assessed the effectiveness of spontaneous restoration to fulfil the requirements for both functions, the formation of vegetation cover to prevent erosion and native species‐rich vegetation, which may provide conservation benefits. We sampled 113 vegetation plots on road verges in the Czech Republic, central Europe. The sampling plots were 25 m2 in size and differed in age (1–42 years). We recorded surrounding landscape (land‐cover categories, landscape heterogeneity, and length of roads and railways in a 1‐km radius zone) and site factors (altitude, substrate texture, slope, aspect, and potential solar radiation) and analysed the data using multivariate methods. Species composition was significantly explained by successional age, altitude, substrate texture, and surrounding forest area. The total herb cover reached on average 30% already in the first 2 years, and later shrub and tree layers developed. Out of 320 identified vascular plant species, almost 5% (15 species) were endangered and 6% (19 species) were invasive aliens. Early successional stages were characterised by a high cover of insect‐pollinated species, which can serve as important food sources for insects. Despite some limitations (poor seed sources and inconvenient site conditions), our results showed that spontaneous succession could be used more often in the restoration of road verges because this approach may provide an alternative, cost‐effective solution of reasonable conservation value.
Soil water carrying capacity for vegetation
Authors: Guo Zhong‐Sheng
Published: March 2021

Nonnative plantations can effectively conserve soil and water and improve the ecology and environment, but soil desiccation can occur and may become severe in forest and grass lands in water‐limited regions, leading to soil degradation, vegetation decline, and crop failure. Therefore, it is necessary to regulate the changing relationship between plant growth and soil water. However, there is no universally accepted theory to provide guidance in the sustainable use of soil water resources, management of forests, and production of crops in such regions. The regulation of the relationship between plant growth and soil water in water‐limited regions can be expressed by the soil water resources use limit by plant (SWRULP) and soil water carrying capacity for vegetation (SWCCV) indexes. The SWCCV is the population in a plant population or density of indicator plants in a plant community when the soil water supply is equal to soil water consumption in the root zone at a given time, and changes with plant community type, location, and time. For example, the SWRULP in caragana shrubland is 222.8 and the SWCCV is 71 bushes per 100 m2 in the semiarid region. The degree of coverage, productivity, and benefits of a plant community when the population quantity of an indicator plant equals the SWCCV provides the theoretical basis for ensuring the sustainable use of soil water resources and sustainable development of forest land.
Single Treatment Protocol With Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency for Treatment of Body Skin Laxity and Fat Deposits
Authors: Alexiades Macrene , Munavalli Gilly S.
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

Treatment modalities have been developed to address patient concerns with skin laxity and focal adipose excess. A previously published multicenter clinical trial reported improvement in cellulite severity after a single dermal and subcutaneous treatment on the upper thigh with a microneedle radiofrequency device. In the current study, this device was used to improve the esthetic appearance of body skin laxity and localized fat deposits above the knee, upper arms, and upper‐mid back/axillary region (“bra‐line”).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Subjects with cellulite, skin laxity, and/or subcutaneous adipose excess in the suprapatellar region of the anterior thigh, upper arms, and bra‐line underwent a single dermal and/or subcutaneous treatment. Investigators and subjects assessed outcome at 1‐, 3‐, and 6‐month follow‐up, using 5‐point Likert scales for global esthetic improvement, skin laxity improvement, and satisfaction.

Results

In total, 31 females (mean age 51 ± 9 years) with Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV received a single treatment on 62 treatment areas: 22 upper arms, 34 suprapatellar, and 6 bra‐lines. Investigator assessments at 1, 3, and 6 months for global esthetic improvement and skin laxity for the upper arms and bra‐line demonstrated improvements in 100% of subjects at all timepoints; for the suprapatellar region, these values were 69%, 92%, 65%, and 85%, 92%, 65%, respectively. Investigator satisfaction at each timepoint was satisfied or very satisfied in 80%, 100%, 90% for upper arms; 80%, 80%, 80% for bra‐line; and 50%, 81%, 65% for suprapatellar region. Subject self‐assessments at 1, 3, and 6 months for global esthetic improvement and skin laxity for the upper arms demonstrated improvements in 100% of subjects at all timepoints; for the bra‐line, these values were 40%, 60%, 80%, and 60%, 60%, 80%, respectively; for the suprapatellar region, these values were 81%, 92%, 88%, and 69%, 85%, 88%, respectively. Subject satisfaction at each timepoint was satisfied or very satisfied in 80%, 100%, 100% for upper arms; 40%, 40%, 80% for bra‐line; and 50%, 77%, 65% for suprapatellar. Treatments were well tolerated with subjects reporting transient erythema and edema associated with 69% and 46% of treatments, respectively. Mild bruising, resolving within 5 days, was reported after 32% of the treatments.

Conclusion

Microneedle fractional radiofrequency provides a single treatment protocol to improve the esthetic appearance of body skin laxity and localized adipose excess to the upper arms, bra‐line, and suprapatellar regions. Further study is warranted to evaluate the degree of improvement and long‐term effect beyond 6 months post‐treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2021 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC
Picosecond Laser treatment of Striae Distensae: In vivo Evaluation of Results by 3D Analysis, Reflectance Confocal Microscopy, and Patient′s Satisfaction
Authors: Fusano Marta , Galimberti Michela G. , Bencini Matelda , Guida Stefania , Bencini Pier Luca
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

The efficacy of picosecond laser (PSL) in the treatment of striae distensae (SD) has been recently reported; otherwise, the base for this improvement has not been clarified yet. The aim of this study is to treat long‐lasting SD with PLS and to describe their in vivo morphological variations after treatment using three‐dimensional (3D) imaging and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A total of 27 patients asking for treatment for SD were treated with four monthly sessions of PLS. Clinical improvement was estimated through a blinded evaluation performed by two independent dermatologists, Global Assessment Improvement Scale (GAIS), patients′ satisfaction, 3D imaging, and RCM assessments at baseline and 6 months after the last laser session.

Results

Although a clinical improvement of SD was observed in 81.4% of patients according to physicians′ GAIS, only 66.6% of patients reported subjective improvement and satisfaction after treatment (P = 0.04). 3D imaging revealed a significant improvement in terms of skin texture (P < 0.001) and mean SD depth (P < 0.001). Otherwise, RCM highlighted collagen remodeling and the appearance of new dermal papillae in all the treated SD compared with baseline.

Conclusions

The present study confirms that PLS represents a safe treatment option for SD; herein, we report morphological documentation of skin variations after PLS treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Enrichment of progenitor cells by 2‐acetylaminofluorene accelerates liver carcinogenesis induced by diethylnitrosamine in vivo
Authors: Castro‐Gil María Paulette , Sánchez‐Rodríguez Ricardo , Torres‐Mena Julia Esperanza , López‐Torres Carlos David , Quintanar‐Jurado Valeria , Gabiño‐López Nayeli Belem , Villa‐Treviño Saúl , del‐Pozo‐Jauner Luis , Arellanes‐Robledo Jaime , Pérez‐Carreón Julio Isael
Published: March 2021

The potential role of hepatocytes versus hepatic progenitor cells (HPC) on the onset and pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been fully clarified. Because the administration of 2‐acetylaminofluorene (2AAF) followed by a partial hepatectomy, selectively induces the HPC proliferation, we investigated the effects of chronic 2AAF administration on the HCC development caused by the chronic administration of the carcinogen diethylnitrosamine (DEN) for 16 weeks in the rat. DEN + 2AAF protocol impeded weight gain of animals but promoted prominent hepatomegaly and exacerbated liver alterations compared to DEN protocol alone. The tumor areas detected by γ‐glutamyl transferase, prostaglandin reductase‐1, and glutathione S‐transferase Pi−1 liver cancer markers increased up to 80% as early as 12 weeks of treatment, meaning 6 weeks earlier than DEN alone. This protocol also increased the number of Ki67‐positive cells and those of CD90 and CK19, two well‐known progenitor cell markers. Interestingly, microarray analysis revealed that DEN + 2AAF protocol differentially modified the global gene expression signature and induced the differential expression of 30 genes identified as HPC markers as early as 6 weeks of treatment. In conclusion, 2AAF induces the early appearance of HPC markers and as a result, accelerates the hepatocarcinogenesis induced by DEN in the rat. Thus, since 2AAF simultaneously administrated with DEN enriches HPC during hepatocarcinogenesis, we propose that DEN + 2AAF protocol might be a useful tool to investigate the cellular origin of HCC with progenitor features.
MALT1 as a promising target to treat lymphoma and other diseases related to MALT1 anomalies
Authors: Liang Xuewu , Cao YiChun , Li Chunpu , Yu Haolan , Yang Chenghua , Liu Hong
Published: March 2021

Mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma translocation protein 1 (MALT1) is a key adaptor protein that regulates the NF‐κB pathway, in which MALT1 functions as a scaffold protein and protease to trigger downstream signals. The abnormal expression of MALT1 is closely associated with lymphomagenesis and other diseases, including solid tumors and autoimmune diseases. MALT1 is the only protease in the underlying pathogenesis of these diseases, and its proteolytic activity can be pharmacologically regulated. Therefore, MALT1 is a potential and promising target for anti‐lymphoma and other MALT1‐related disease treatments. Currently, the development of MALT1 inhibitors is still in its early stages. This review presents an overview of MALT1, particularly its X‐ray structures and biological functions, and elaborates on the pathogenesis of diseases associated with its dysregulation. We then summarize previously reported MALT1 inhibitors, focusing on their molecular structure, biological activity, structure–activity relationship, and limitations. Finally, we propose future research directions to accelerate the discovery of novel MALT1 inhibitors with clinical applications. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of MALT1‐related research advances and serves as a theoretical basis for drug discovery and research.
Identification of rare heterozygous linkage R965C‐R1309H mutations in the pore‐forming region of SCN5A gene associated with complex arrhythmia
Authors: Lin Yubi , Qin Jiading , Shen Yuhui , Huang Jiana , Zhang Zuoquan , Zhu ZhiLing , Lu Huifang , Huang Yin , Yin Yuelan , Wang Ani , Jin Lizi , Hu Zhenyu , Lin Xiufang , Jiang Bin
Published: March 2021

Background

We examined the genetic background of a Chinese Han family in which some members presented with complex arrhythmias including sick sinus syndrome, progressive conduction block, atrial fibrillation, atrial standstill and Brugada syndrome. The possible underlying mechanism associated with the genetic mutation was explored.

Methods

Targeted capture sequencing was conducted in the probands in the coding and splicing regions of genes implicated in inherited arrhythmias. Stable cell lines overexpressing wild type (WT) or mutant SCN5A were generated in HEK293T cells. Whole‐cell recording was performed to evaluate the functional changes in sodium channels.

Results

The rare heterozygous linkage mutations, SCN5A R965C and R1309H, were found in these patients with complex familial arrhythmias. Compared to WT, R965C or R1309H, the peak current of sodium channel was dramatically reduced in HEK293T cell with linkage R965C‐R1309H mutation when testing potentials ranging from −45 to 15 mV. Notably, the maximum peak current of sodium channels with R1309H and linkage R965C‐R1309H displayed significant decreases of 31.5% and 73.34%, respectively, compared to WT. Additionally, compared to R965C or R1309H alone, the linkage mutation R965C‐R1309H demonstrated not only a more obvious depolarisation‐shifted activation and hyperpolarisation‐shifted inactivation, but also a more significant alteration in the time constant, V1/2 and the slope factor of activation and inactivation.

Conclusions

The linkage mutation SCN5A R965C‐R1309H led to a more dramatically reduced current density, as well as more significant depolarisation‐shifted activation and hyperpolarisation‐shifted inactivation in sodium channels than R965C or R1309H alone, which potentially explain this complex familial arrhythmia syndrome.
A novel mutation in NF1 gene of patient with Neurofibromatosis type 1: A case report and functional study
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Jia Caiwei , Dong Zhiya , Li Chuanyin , Lu Wenli
Published: March 2021

Background

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is an autosomal dominant inherited disease and caused by NF1 gene mutation. Its clinical manifestations include multiple cafe´‐au lait (CAL) spots, skinfold freckling, neurofibroma, bone dysplasia, learning disabilities, and an increased risk of malignancy.

Methods and Results

Here, we reported a Chinese patient bearing with a novel NF1 mutation (c.2064delGGATGCAGCGG/p.Gly672AsnfsTer24) and complaining mainly about bone phenotype. Functional studies found that this novel mutation caused the damage of NF1 mRNA and protein levels, and lost the inhibition on Ras/Erk signaling.

Conclusion

A novel mutation in NF1 gene was identified and in vitro functional studies were performed, which provided a potential molecular mechanism to explain the bone maldevelopment of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1.
Modeling and optimal control analysis of COVID‐19: Case studies from Italy and Spain
Authors: Srivastav Akhil Kumar , Ghosh Mini , Li Xue‐Zhi , Cai Liming
Published: March 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a viral disease which is declared as a pandemic by WHO. This disease is posing a global threat, and almost every country in the world is now affected by this disease. Currently, there is no vaccine for this disease, and because of this, containing COVID‐19 is not an easy task. It is noticed that elderly people got severely affected by this disease specially in Europe. In the present paper, we propose and analyze a mathematical model for COVID‐19 virus transmission by dividing whole population in old and young groups. We find disease‐free equilibrium and the basic reproduction number (R0). We estimate the parameter corresponding to rate of transmission and rate of detection of COVID‐19 using real data from Italy and Spain by least square method. We also perform sensitivity analysis to identify the key parameters which influence the basic reproduction number and hence regulate the transmission dynamics of COVID‐19. Finally, we extend our proposed model to optimal control problem to explore the best cost‐effective and time‐dependent control strategies that can reduce the number of infectives in a specified interval of time.
Technical Note: Self‐shielding evaluation and radiation leakage measurement of a jawless ring gantry linac with a beam stopper
Authors: Cai Bin , Laugeman Eric , Hsu HsinLu , Green Olga , Knutson Nels , Goddu S. Murty , Mutic Sasa , Du Shuhua , Henke Lauren , Kim Hyun , Hugo Geoffrey D.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To characterize the shielding design and leakage radiation from a newly released ring gantry linac (Halcyon, Varian Medical Systems).

Methods

To assess the radiation leakage surrounding headshield and the radiation level after the beam stopper, measurements were made with GafChromic films. To evaluate the in‐room radiation levels, the radiation leakage in the isocenter plane was measured with a large volume spherical ionization chamber (Exradin A6, Standard Imaging). A lead enclosure was constructed to shield the chamber from the low energy scatter radiation from the room. The radiation level at multiple locations was measured with the MLC fully closed and gantry at 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees. The leakage radiation passing through multiple concrete slabs with various thickness was recorded in a narrow beam geometry to determine the tenth value layer (TVL).

Results

A uniform leakage (<0.05%) at 1 m from electron beam line was measured surrounding the linac head with the maximum leakage measured at the top of the head enclosure. The highest radiation level (<0.08%) was measured near the edge of the beam stopper when projected to the measurement plane. The maximum radiation levels due to the head leakage at 15 locations inside the treatment room were recorded and a radiation map was plotted. The maximum leakage was measured at points that along the electron beam line while the gantry at 90 or 270 degree and at the end of head enclosure (0.314%, 0.4 m from electron beamline). The leakage TVL value is found to be 226 mm in a narrow beam geometry with the concrete density of 2.16 g/cm3 or 134.6 lb/cu.ft.

Conclusion

An overall uniform leakage was measured surrounding linac head. The beam stopper shields the primary radiation with the highest valued measured near the edge of beam stopper. The leakage TVL values are derived and less than the values reported for conventional C‐arm linac.
Sacralization in the Mary Rose and Kronan assemblages: An inconsistently recorded anomaly
Authors: Drew Rose , Kjellström Anna
Published: March 2021

This study aims to promote consistent observations of sacralization, a relatively common form of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV). Sacralization can inform on genetic affiliation. There are four types, ranging from enlarged transverse processes to bony ankylosis. Complete sacralization reportedly occurs in 1.5%–14% of archeological and modern populations, yet clinical studies can conflate types, resulting in rates as high as 46%. Archeologically obtained sacra and lower lumbar vertebrae from two historical shipwrecks (16th century English warship Mary Rose and 17th century Swedish warship Kronan) are compared via gross observation. These semi‐documented individuals, fit enough to be on a warship during battle, have a documented cause, manner, and date of death. The assemblages yield 120 sacra; complete sacralization is compared between the crews. Both crude and true prevalence of bony ankyloses are recorded with χ2 analyses testing significance. Both samples have 16.7% true prevalence of complete sacralization, with 38.3% of Mary Rose sacra and 26.7% of Kronan sacra showing some variant of LSTV. It is possible the high rates of sacralization shown in both crews are related to the samples being drawn from similar populations: a Swedish clinical study finds a similar rate of 13.9% for “complete” sacralization. However, reported rates of less than 1.0% in other archeological samples suggest that true sacralization is inconsistently recognized. Finally, clinical and archeological studies either conflate all types or fail to state their diagnostic criteria, reducing the ability to accurately compare findings.