bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the success of upland hay meadow restoration in the North Pennines, United Kingdom, using green hay transfer
Authors: Starr‐Keddle Ruth E.
Published: February 2022

Traditionally managed mesotrophic species‐rich upland hay meadows conforming to the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) MG3b are one of the rarest grassland types in the United Kingdom, with substantial declines in botanical diversity over the last 50 years. Intensive spring grazing, earlier cut dates and increases in soil fertility cause a decline in characteristic positive indicator species in MG3b meadows, shifting communities from species‐rich MG3b, to NVC MG6 meadows, and finally to species‐poor NVC MG7 meadows.

The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership's Hay Time project aimed to improve the knowledge of upland hay meadows, and to investigate the success of seed addition of key positive indicator species. A landscape‐scale restoration programme was undertaken between 2006 and 2012, harvesting seed from 82 species‐rich donor meadows and spreading seed onto 89 receptor meadows (222.82 ha). Seed was harvested as green hay, using two types of donors: MG6 (classed as restoration, with species such as Rhinanthus minor) and MG3b (classed as enhancement, with species such as Geranium sylvaticum). All 89 meadows were monitored, with a baseline botanical survey and a repeat survey 3–5 years after seed addition. In addition, 41 meadows that did not have seed addition were monitored (controls).

Species richness, diversity and floristic composition improved in 77 meadows 3–5 years after seed addition. Eighteen plant species had an increase in frequency in the receptor meadows but did not increase in frequency in the control meadows. The most successful were eight positive indicators which were annuals or fast‐growing perennial plants (Anthoxanthum odoratum, Euphrasia spp., Myosotis discolor, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, R minor, Trifolium dubium and Trifolium pratense). However, rarer characteristic MG3b plants such as Alchemilla spp., G. sylvaticum and Cirsium heterophyllum showed little signs of establishing.

Botanical evidence is demonstrating that seed addition using green hay is a successful way of restoring meadows to an MG6 community. What is now needed is an effective method to establish characteristic MG3b plants. Hand‐collecting seeds and establishing plug plants, alongside seed addition and maintaining traditional management practises, is one possible way forward.
Wide‐Bandgap Double Perovskites with Multiple Longitudinal‐Optical Phonon Scattering
Authors: Wang Liangling , Zheng Wei , Vitale Francesco , Zhang Xiangzhou , Li Xiuling , Ji Yanchen , Liu Zhen , Ghaebi Omid , Plass Christian T. , Domes Robert , Frosch Torsten , Soavi Giancarlo , Wendler Elke , Zhang Yuhai , Ronning Carsten
Published: February 2022

Alloyed lead‐free double perovskites display intense photoluminescence, are environmentally friendly, and their devices show long‐term operation. Thanks to these properties, which make them excellent warm white‐emitting materials, they have recently received great attention in lighting applications. An important factor to tune the optical properties of alloyed lead‐free double perovskites is the presence of self‐trapped excitons. Here, it is demonstrated that in lead‐free double perovskites, the strong electron–phonon coupling plays a crucial role in the generation of self‐trapped excitons. The strong electron–phonon coupling is confirmed by a large Huang–Rhys factor and by the presence of multiphonon transitions. In particular, sharp emission lines superimposed on the broad photoluminescence emission band of one of these samples (Cs2Ag0.6Na0.4InCl6 0.5%Bi) are observed; these are due to the strong coupling of longitudinal‐optical phonons with excited electronic states caused by the tetragonally distorted AgCl6 octahedrons. Such a strong coupling of longitudinal‐optical phonons to electrons can effectively modulate the photophysical properties of alloyed double perovskites, and its understanding is, thus, of paramount importance for the design of future optoelectronic devices.
Bioinspired Multifunctional Mechanoreception of Soft–Rigid Hybrid Actuator Fingers
Authors: Gong Shoulu , Ding Qifan , Wu Jiahao , Li Wen-Bo , Guo Xin-Yu , Zhang Wen-Ming , Shao Lei
Published: February 2022

It is highly desired yet challenging to construct soft robots resembling the dexterous motor skills and powerful tactile sensations of human hands. Herein, a bioinspired design to create soft–rigid hybrid mechanoreceptive actuators (HMAs) and grippers is reported, imitating the musculoskeletal structure and embedded mechanoreception of human fingers, via careful ink preparation and a multimodality all‐3D‐printing technology. The HMAs consist of multiple rigid segments between joints, imitating phalanges, to mount flexible mechanoreceptive sensors in a flexible‐on‐rigid (FOR) design, yielding a bending‐insensitive unambiguous mechanoreception. The printed sensors exhibit a humanoid high sensitivity for low contact force and a wide low‐sensitivity linear detection range, combined with excellent long‐term stability and low hysteresis. As a result, the HMA gripper not only shows greatly enhanced output force due to the soft–rigid hybrid design, but also enables multifunctional mechanoreceptive sensing including contact identification, gentle grabbing, and the estimation of size, weight, and stiffness of the grasped objects. This integrated approach of constructing soft robots with mechanoreception can provide a pathway toward feedback control, integrative biomimetic functions, and human–machine interface for all soft devices.
Screening and enrollment of underrepresented ethnocultural and educational populations in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI)
Authors: Ashford Miriam T. , Raman Rema , Miller Garrett , Donohue Michael C. , Okonkwo Ozioma C. , Mindt Monica Rivera , Nosheny Rachel L. , Coker Godfrey A. , Petersen Ronald C. , Aisen Paul S. , Weiner Michael W. ,   the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: February 2022

Introduction

An analysis of the ethnocultural and socioeconomic composition of Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) participants is needed to assess the generalizability of ADNI data to diverse populations.

Methods

ADNI data collected between October 2004 and November 2020 were used to determine ethnocultural and educational composition of the sample and differences in the following metrics: screening, screen fails, enrollment, biomarkers.

Results

Of 3739 screened individuals, 11% identified as being from ethnoculturally underrepresented populations (e.g., Black, Latinx) and 16% had <12 years of education. Of 2286 enrolled participants, 11% identified as ethnoculturally underrepresented individuals and 15% had <12 years of education. This participation is considerably lower than US Census data for adults 60+ (ethnoculturally underrepresented populations: 25%; <12 years of education: 4%). Individuals with <12 years of education failed screening at a higher rate.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that ADNI results may not be entirely generalizable to ethnoculturally diverse and low education populations.
Study on dust occurrence and transportation related to boundary layer height in Northwest China
Authors: Tan Ziyuan , Ma Minjin , Huang Wanlong , Tan Changrong , Zhao Zhenzhu , Ding Fan
Published: February 2022

Boundary layer development has a significant influence on dust emission and transportation. The effects of surface heat flux on distribution of dust related to BLH (boundary layer height) during a dust event in Northwest China are discussed by numerical simulation. The results show that: the dust emissions start in Dunhuang and strengthen in Minqin with large dust emission fluxes (as high as 3000 μg m−2 s−1) and surface wind speed (up to 20 m s−1). The dust at the early stage mainly concentrates below 500 m above the ground, then lifts over 3000 m above the ground at the strengthening stage, and the concentration in high value center is more than 24,000 μg m−3 at the dust source Dunhuang. The high dust concentration in Minqin maintains at about 1000 m above the ground. Weak dust emission in Minqin makes the dust concentration near the ground less than that in the upper air. The BLH in the high dust concentration center is higher than that in the surrounding area at the emission stage in Dunhuang. Sensitivity experiment with turning off surface heat flux shows obvious decrease of the dust concentration in Dunhuang, with more than four times reduction of the surface dust concentration. The BLH near the high dust concentration area reduces significantly in the sensitivity experiment. However, the gap between the two experiments reduces with the dust development. The BLH in the sensitivity experiment has small spatial differences with uniform distribution in Dunhuang. It means that the thermodynamic contribution is main reason for the distribution differences. The two experiments in Minqin also show that the height of high concentration dust has a difference of about 500 m. The dust lifts with the boundary layer development, but shows different distribution characteristics and influencing factors between Dunhuang and Minqin.
Does social distancing affect the processing of brand logos?
Authors: D'Ascenzo Stefania , Scerrati Elisa , Villani Caterina , Galatolo Renata , Lugli Luisa , Nicoletti Roberto
Published: February 2022

Social distancing and isolation have been imposed to contrast the spread of COVID‐19. The present study investigates whether social distancing affects our cognitive system, in particular the processing of different types of brand logos in different moments of the pandemic spread in Italy. In a size discrimination task, six different logos belonging to three categories (letters, symbols, and social images) were presented in their original format and spaced. Two samples of participants were tested: one just after the pandemic spread in Italy, the other one after 6 months. Results showed an overall distancing effect (i.e., spaced stimuli are processed slower than original ones) that interacted with the sample, revealing a significant effect only for participants belonging to the second sample. However, both groups showed a distancing effect modulated by the type of logo as it only emerged for social images. Results suggest that social distancing behaviors have been integrated in our cognitive system as they appear to affect our perception of distance when social images are involved.
De‐escalation of five‐year adjuvant endocrine therapy in patients with estrogen receptor‐low positive (immunohistochemistry staining 1%‐10%) breast cancer: Propensity‐matched analysis from a prospectively maintained cohort
Authors: Cai Yu‐Wen , Shao Zhi‐Ming , Yu Ke‐Da
Published: February 2022

Background

The standard 5 years of endocrine therapy has demonstrated additional benefits compared with short‐term (2‐3 years) treatment in patients with estrogen receptor (ER)‐positive breast cancer; however, data specific to ER‐low positive breast cancer (1%‐10% by immunohistochemistry) are limited, and it is unclear whether long‐term treatment is still necessary for this subgroup.

Methods

The authors used the prospectively maintained Breast Surgery Database of Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center for this propensity‐matched analysis. The primary end point was disease‐free survival. Multivariate Cox regression analysis and propensity score‐matching methods were used to minimize bias. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. All statistics were 2‐sided.

Results

From 2012 to 2017, 22,768 consecutive women had pathologically confirmed, early stage breast cancer, and 1013 (4.45%) were identified with ER‐low positive disease. Among these, 634 patients met the inclusion criteria and were divided into 3 groups: those who received no endocrine therapy (n = 89), those who received 2 to 3 years of endocrine therapy (n = 185), and those who received approximately 5 years of endocrine therapy (n = 360). At a median follow‐up of 65 months, there was no significant difference in disease‐free survival between patients who received 2 to 3 years and 5 years of endocrine therapy (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.51‐1.33; P = .43). The findings were consistent after multivariate Cox analysis of the propensity score‐matched samples (5 vs 2‐3 years of treatment: HR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.41‐1.31; P = .30).

Conclusions

Short‐term endocrine therapy for 2 to 3 years might be an alternative for patients who have ER‐low positive breast cancer instead of the standard 5 years of treatment.
Histopathological role of vitamin D deficiency in recurrent/chronic tonsillitis pathogenesis: Vascular epithelial growth factor‐mediated angiogenesis in tonsil
Authors: Safak Ayse S. , Bulut Fuat , Cumbul Alev
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Our aim in this study is to reveal the role of vitamin D deficiency in the pathogenesis of recurrent/chronic tonsillitis and to determine the expression of vascular epithelial growth factor (VEGF).

Material and Methods

This study was conducted between September and February. Thirty‐two patients between the ages of 3 and 35 (mean age 9.71) with recurrent episodes of chronic tonsillitis were selected. Patients were divided into four groups according to their 25OHD levels. Patients with 25OHD levels 0–10 ng/ml were determined as Group 1, 11–20 ng/ml Group 2, 21–30 ng/ml Group 3, and 31–50 ng/ml control Group 4. Routine histological tissue sampling was performed for histopathological evaluation of the tonsillar tissues under light microscope (LM). Five micron sections were taken from the paraffin blocks and stained with Hematoxylin Eosin (HE) and Trichrome Masson (TCM). VEGF expression was examined immunohistochemically for each group.

Results

Our analysis showed VEGF expression in all study groups (32 tonsillar tissues). Group 1 and Group 2 histopathological scores were significantly higher than the other groups (p < .001). There were significant differences in VEGF expressions between the four groups (p < .001). 25OHD levels of the patients in Groups 1 and 2 with strong VEGF expression were significantly lower than the other groups (p < .001).

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study showed an increased angiogenesis in tonsil and an increase in VEGF expression of the tonsillar surface epithelium when blood serum 25OHD levels <20 ng/ml.
Detecting hypodiploidy with endoreduplication and masked hypodiploidy in B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia using multicolor flow cytometry
Authors: Chaturvedi Anumeha , Shetty Dhanalaxmi , Ghogale Sitaram Gundu , Deshpande Nilesh , Badrinath Yajamanam , Chatterjee Gaurav , Girase Karishma , Sriram Harshini , Khanka Twinkle , Mishra Chetna , Dasgupta Niharika , Gujarathi Sejal Anil , Rajpal Sweta , Patkar Nikhil , Amare‐Kadam Prathibha , Gujral Sumeet , Subramanian Papagudi Ganesan , Tembhare Prashant Ramesh
Published: February 2022

Background

Multicolor flow cytometry‐based DNA‐ploidy (MFC‐ploidy) analysis is a simple, sensitive, and popular method for ploidy analysis in B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL). However, the utility of MFC‐ploidy in the detection of B‐ALL with endoreduplication or masked hypodiploidy has not been reported. Herein, we studied the patterns of MFC‐ploidy assessment and its utility to detect B‐ALL with hypodiploidy and endoreduplication.

Methods

MFC‐ploidy analysis was performed using FxCycle Violet‐dye‐based method, and cytogenetic ploidy was evaluated using chromosomal‐counting and FISH analysis. A total of 20 B‐ALL cases with endoreduplication were studied for the patterns of MFC‐ploidy analysis and compared with 250 patients with hyperdiploidy and 11 cases with pure hypodiploidy.

Results

All B‐ALL with endoreduplication revealed two distinct peaks (populations) on MFC‐ploidy analysis: the first (hypodiploid) peak (median—DNA‐index [DI], 0.82; range, 0.6–0.95) and the second (hyperdiploid) peak with almost twice DI (median–DI, 1.53; range, 1.14–1.75). Cytogenetic findings were available in 19 cases and confirmed hypodiploidy with endoreduplication in 13/19 (68.4%) and only hypodiploidy in 3/19 cases. The remaining three cases showed hyperdiploid blasts in cytogenetic studies. Of these three, two cases had <10% blasts population with hypodiploidy. Thus, masked‐hypodiploidy could be diagnosed correctly in 3/19 cases on MFC‐ploidy analysis.

Conclusion

MFC‐ploidy analysis shows a characteristic pattern of DNA‐ploidy in samples with endoreduplication. It allows the distinction between samples with masked hypodiploidy from true hyperdiploidy. An integrated approach involving cytogenetic and MFC‐ploidy detection is very helpful in the risk stratification of B‐ALL in routine clinical practice.
Three‐Dimensional N‐Doped Carbon Nanotube/Graphene Composite Aerogel Anode to Develop High‐Power Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Jin Shixuan , Feng Yiyu , Jia Jichao , Zhao Fulai , Wu Zijie , Long Peng , Li Feng , Yu Huitao , Yang Chi , Liu Qijing , Zhang Baocai , Song Hao , Feng Wei
Published: February 2022

Optimizing the structure of electrode materials is one of the most effective strategies for designing high‐power microbial fuel cells (MFCs). However, electrode materials currently suffer from a series of shortcomings that limit the output of MFCs, such as high intrinsic resistance, poor electrolyte wettability, and low microbial load capacity. Here, a three‐dimensional (3D) nitrogen‐doped multiwalled carbon nanotube/graphene (N‐MWCNT/GA) composite aerogel is synthesized as the anode for MFCs. Comparing nitrogen‐doped GA, MWCNT/GA, and N‐MWCNT/GA, the macroporous hydrophilic N‐MWCNT/GA electrode with an average pore size of 4.24 µm enables high‐density loading of the microbes and facilitates extracellular electron transfer with low intrinsic resistance. Consequently, the hydrophilic surface of N‐MWCNT can generate high charge mobility, enabling a high‐power output performance of the MFC. In consequence, the MFC system based on N‐MWCNT/GA anode exhibits a peak power density and output voltage of 2977.8 mW m−2 and 0.654 V, which are 1.83 times and 16.3% higher than those obtained with MWCNT/GA, respectively. These results demonstrate that 3D N‐MWCNT/GA anodes can be developed for high‐power MFCs in different environments by optimizing their chemical and microstructures.
Interictal pattern on scalp electroencephalogram predicts excellent surgical outcome of epilepsy caused by focal cortical dysplasia
Authors: Wan Hui‐juan , Hu Wen‐han , Wang Xiu , Zhang Chao , Wang Sheng‐song , Zheng Zhong , Zhou Feng , Sang Lin , Zhang Kai , Zhang Jian‐guo , Shao Xiao‐qiu
Published: February 2022

Objective

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) represents an essential cause of drug‐resistant epilepsy with surgery as an effective treatment option. This study aimed to identify the important predictors of favorable surgical outcomes and the impact of the interictal scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) patterns in predicting postsurgical seizure outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 210 consecutive patients between 2015 and 2019. They were diagnosed with FCD by pathology, underwent resection, and had at least one year of postsurgical follow‐up. Predictors of seizure freedom were analyzed.

Results

Based on the information at the latest follow‐up, seizure outcome was classified as Engel Class I (seizure‐free) in 81.4% and Engel Class II‐IV (non‐seizure‐free) in 18.6% of patients. There were 43, 105, and 62 cases of FCD type I, type II, and type III, respectively. The interictal EEG showed a repetitive discharge pattern (REDP) in 87 (41.4%) patients, polyspike discharge pattern (PDP) in 41 (19.5%), and the coexistence of REDP and PDP in the same location in 32 (15.2%) patients. The analyzed patterns in order of frequency were repetitive discharges lasting 5 seconds or more (32.4%); polyspikes (16.7%); RED type 1 (11.4%); continuous epileptiform discharges occupying >80% of the recording (11.4%); RED type 2 (6.2%); brushes (3.3%); focal, fast, continuous spikes (2.4%); focal fast rhythmic epileptiform discharges (1.43%); and frequent rhythmic bursting epileptiform activity (1.4%). The coexistence of REDP and PDP in the same location on scalp EEG and complete resection of the assumed epileptogenic zone (EZ) was independently associated with favorable postsurgical prognosis.

Significance

Resective epilepsy surgery for intractable epilepsy caused by FCD has favorable outcomes. Interictal scalp EEG patterns were revealed to be predictive of excellent surgical outcomes and may help clinical decision‐making and enable better presurgical evaluation.
How does teaching with cases support the development of evaluation competencies?
Authors: Bourgeois Isabelle , Wildschut Lauren , Steinberg Marla
Published: February 2022

Evaluation competency frameworks identify the skills and knowledge required for the professional practice of evaluation. These competency frameworks are used, among other purposes, to craft evaluation training programs, courses, and activities. To date, the link between case‐centered teaching and learning and the development of evaluation competencies has not been explored systematically. Our study sought to focus on this link through an exploratory survey of evaluation instructors. Our findings reveal that evaluation instructors recognize the potential of case‐centered teaching in supporting the development of evaluation competencies and that they use cases towards competency development. However, some challenges remain, such as the accessibility and adaptability of cases to particular competency domains and instructional contexts.
Malvastrum coromandelianum subsp. capitato‐spicatum (Malvaceae), a new record for United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Authors: Sakkir Sabitha , Al Mansoori Maitha , Soorae Pritpal
Published: February 2022

Malvastrum coromandelianum subsp. capitato‐spicatum is reported as a new record for the United Arab Emirates. Current information on the occurrence of the genus Malvastrum in the Arabian Peninsula is discussed. A key to the subspecies of Malvastrum coromandelianum and a description and illustration of the subspecies capitato‐spicatum are provided.
Impaired phase synchronization of motor‐evoked potentials reflects the degree of motor dysfunction in the lesioned human brain
Authors: Naros Georgios , Machetanz Kathrin , Leao Maria Teresa , Wang Sophie , Tatagiba Marcos , Gharabaghi Alireza
Published: February 2022

The functional corticospinal integrity (CSI) can be indexed by motor‐evoked potentials (MEP) following transcranial magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex. Glial brain tumors in motor‐eloquent areas are frequently disturbing CSI resulting in different degrees of motor dysfunction. However, this is unreliably mirrored by MEP characteristics. In 59 consecutive patients with diffuse glial tumors and 21 healthy controls (CTRL), we investigated the conventional MEP features, that is, resting motor threshold (RMT), amplitudes and latencies. In addition, frequency‐domain MEP features were analyzed to estimate the event‐related spectral perturbation (ERSP), and the induced phase synchronization by intertrial coherence (ITC). The clinical motor status was captured including the Medical Research Council Scale (MRCS), the Grooved Pegboard Test (GPT), and the intake of antiepileptic drugs (AED). Motor function was classified according to MRCS and GPT as no motor deficit (NMD), fine motor deficits (FMD) and gross motor deficits (GMD). CSI was assessed by diffusion‐tensor imaging (DTI). Motor competent subjects (CTRL and NMD) had similar ERSP and ITC values. The presence of a motor deficit (FMD and GMD) was associated with an impairment of high‐frequency ITC (150–300 Hz). GMD and damage to the CSI demonstrated an additional reduction of high‐frequency ERSP (150–300 Hz). GABAergic AED increased ERSP but not ITC. Notably, groups were indistinguishable based on conventional MEP features. Estimating MEP phase synchronization provides information about the corticospinal transmission after transcranial magnetic stimulation and reflects the degree of motor impairment that is not captured by conventional measures.
Perceived stress and willingness to quit smoking among patients with depressive and anxiety disorders seeking treatment
Authors: Fatani Bayan Zaid , Al‐Yahyawi Huda , Raggam AbdulAziz , Al‐Ahdal Mutaz , Alzyoud Sukaina , Hassan Ahmed N.
Published: February 2022

Rationale and objectives

Little are known about nicotine dependence (ND), perceived stress, and willingness to quit smoking at different treatment stages in patient with affective disorders (AD). This study aimed to evaluate the association between ND and perceived stress among patients with AD presenting with psychiatric treatment at different clinical stages (first visit or follow‐up), and in different nicotine type users (cigarette and waterpipe smokers). We also aimed to evaluate the willingness to quit smoking and its association with barriers to quitting.

Methods

This cross‐sectional mixed‐method study collected quantitative and qualitative data from patients (n = 57) presenting for treatment with AD and ND at different sites in Saudi Arabia. Quantitative validated scales were used to assess the 70 of depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, perceived stress, and ND. Qualitative questions assessed barriers to quit smoking. We used a linear regression modeling to estimate the association between ND and perceived stress as well as to estimate the association between barrier to quit and willingness to quit.

Results

ND had a statistically significant association with perceived stress (odds ratio [OR]: 2.09; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20‐3.63). Participants in the follow‐up group had a higher ND score than those in the first‐visit group. One of the most commonly reported barriers to quitting was using nicotine as a stress management (33.3%), which predicted positive willingness to quit (OR: 2.23; 95% CI: 1.48‐3.37; P < .01). Boredom was reported as a barrier in the waterpipe group more than cigarette group.

Conclusion

ND has a significant association with perceived stress regardless of treatment status in patients with AD, indicating the need to evaluate smoking cessation during the early stages of treatment for patients with AD and ND. It will be critical for clinicians to offer patients with AD alternative coping mechanisms to manage stress and boredom.
Structures and properties of ionic crystals and condensed phase ionic liquids predicted with the generalized energy‐based fragmentation method
Authors: Li Yunzhi , Wang Dong , Fu Fangjia , Xia Qiying , Li Wei , Li Shuhua
Published: February 2022

The generalized energy‐based fragmentation (GEBF) approach is extended to facilitate ab initio investigations of structures, lattice energies, vibrational spectra and 1H NMR chemical shifts of ionic crystals and condensed‐phase ionic liquids (ILs) with the periodic boundary conditions (PBC). For selected periodic systems, our results demonstrate that the so‐called PBC‐GEBF approach can provide satisfactory descriptions on ground‐state energies, structures, and vibrational spectra of ionic crystals and IL crystals. The PBC‐GEBF approach is then applied to three realistic condensed phase systems. For three ionic crystals (LiCl, NaCl, and KCl), we apply the PBC‐GEBF approach with MP2 theory as well as some popular DFT methods to investigate their crystal structures and lattice energies. Our calculations indicate that the crystal structures obtained with PBC‐GEBF‐MP2/6–311 + G** are very close to the corresponding X‐ray structures, while PBC‐GEBF‐ωB97X‐D/6–311 + G** provides satisfactory prediction for crystal structures and lattice energies. For two polymorphs of [n‐C4mim][Cl] crystals, we find that the PBC‐GEBF approach at the M06‐2X/6–311 + G** level can give a satisfactory descriptions on structures and Raman spectra of these two crystals. Furthermore, for [C2mim][BF4] ILs, we demonstrate that their 1H NMR chemical shifts can be estimated from averaging over 5 typical snapshots (extracted from MD simulations) with the PBC‐GEBF approach at the B97‐2/pcSseg‐2 level. The calculated results account for the observed experimental data quite well. Therefore, we expect that the PBC‐GEBF approach, combined with various quantum chemistry methods, will become an effective tool in predicting structures and properties of ionic crystals and condensed‐phase ILs.
MALDI‐TOF‐MS analysis in low molecular weight serum peptidome biomarkers for NSCLC
Authors: Song Yufan , Xu Xiaoyu , Wang Nana , Zhang Ting , Hu Chengjin
Published: February 2022

Objects

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death from cancer in the world. Screening new serum biomarkers is important for the early detection of lung cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the serum peptide model between non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients and healthy controls, as well as between paired pre‐ and postoperative NSCLC patients, and to find the low molecular weight (LMW) potential tumor markers for NSCLC.

Methods

56 serum samples from NSCLC patients, 56 controls, and 20 matched pre‐ and postoperative patients were analyzed using magnetic‐bead (MB)‐based purification technique combined with MALDI‐TOF‐MS. To distinguish NSCLC from cancer‐free controls, three models were established. Finally, comparing the three groups of serum protein fingerprints, nano‐liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry was used to further identify the differential peptides.

Results

Among the three models constructed, the GA model had the best diagnostic efficacy. Five differential peaks were screened by combining the case group, healthy controls, and postoperative group analysis, which were up‐regulated in the case group and showed a tendency to return to healthy control values after surgery. The protein matching the mass spectrometry peak m/z 2953.73 was identified as fibrinogen α chain.

Conclusion

This study shows that the application of MALDI‐TOF‐MS is a promising approach for the identification of potential serum biomarkers for NSCLC, which is potentially valuable for establishing a new diagnostic method for lung cancer. In addition, we found that fibrinogen α chain may be an auxiliary diagnostic indicator for NSCLC.
Changes in predicted lean body mass, appendicular skeletal muscle mass, and body fat mass and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Kim Seong Rae , Lee Gyeongsil , Choi Seulggie , Oh Yun Hwan , Son Joung Sik , Park Minseon , Park Sang Min
Published: February 2022

Background

Little is known about the association of changes in two body components, muscle and fat mass, with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among young adults. We investigated the association of changes in predicted lean body mass index (LBMI), appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI), and body fat mass index (BFMI) with the development of CVD among young adults.

Methods

This nationwide, population‐based cohort study included 3 727 738 young adults [2 406 046 (64.5%) men and 1 321 692 (35.5%) women] aged 20–39 years without a previous history of CVD who underwent two health screening examinations during 2009–2010 and 2011–2012. Using validated and robust prediction equations, we calculated the changes in predicted LBMI, ASMI, and BFMI from the first to the second examinations.

Results

The mean (SD) age was 32.2 (4.9) years, and 2 406 046 (64.5%) of the participants were men. A total of 23 344 CVD events were detected during 22 257 632 person‐years of follow‐up. Each 1 kg/m2 increase in predicted LBMI and ASMI change was associated with a reduced risk of CVD among men [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.82–0.91; aHR: 0.76, 95% CI 0.69–0.82, respectively] and women (aHR: 0.77, 95% CI 0.63–0.95; aHR: 0.75, 95% CI 0.59–0.96). Each 1 kg/m2 increase in predicted BFMI change was associated with an increased risk of CVD among men (aHR: 1.16, 95% CI 1.10–1.22) and women (aHR: 1.32, 95% CI 1.06–1.65). In both sexes, decreases in predicted LBMI and ASMI were associated with greater CVD risk, and decreased predicted BFMI was associated with a reduced CVD risk. Those who maintained their BMI between −1 and +1 kg/m2 also had a decreased risk of CVD per 1 kg/m2 increase in predicted LBMI and ASMI change among men (aHR: 0.86, 95% CI 0.80–0.92; aHR: 0.85, 95% CI 0.76–0.95) and women (aHR: 0.62, 95% CI 0.47–0.83; aHR: 0.59, 95% CI 0.44–0.80) and had a greater risk of CVD per 1 kg/m2 increase in predicted BFMI change among men (aHR: 1.17, 95% CI 1.10–1.25) and women (aHR: 1.64, 95% CI 1.20–2.23). Regardless of changes in weight, such as from normal to obese or vice versa, these results were consistent.

Conclusions

Among young adults, increased predicted muscle mass or decreased predicted fat mass were associated with a reduced risk of development of CVD. Decreased predicted muscle mass or increased predicted fat mass were associated with an elevated risk of development of CVD.
Downregulation of the schizophrenia risk‐gene Dgcr2 alters early microcircuit development in the mouse medial prefrontal cortex
Authors: Molinard‐Chenu Aude , Godel Michel , Rey Alicia , Musardo Stefano , Bodogan Timea , Vutskits Laszlo , Bellone Camilla , Dayer Alexandre
Published: February 2022

Alterations in the generation, migration and integration of different subtypes of neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) microcircuit could play an important role in vulnerability to schizophrenia. Using in vivo cell‐type specific manipulation of pyramidal neurons (PNs) progenitors, we aim to investigate the role of the schizophrenia risk‐gene DiGeorge Critical Region 2 (Dgcr2) on cortical circuit formation in the mPFC of developing mice. This report describes how Dgcr2 knock down in upper‐layer PNs impacts the functional maturation of PNs and interneurons (INs) in the mPFC. First, we demonstrate that Dgcr2 knock‐down disrupts laminar positioning, dendritic morphology and excitatory activity of upper‐layer PNs. Interestingly, inhibitory activity is also modified in Dgcr2 knock‐down PNs, suggesting a broader microcircuit alteration involving interneurons. Further analyses show that the histological maturation of parvalbumin (PV) INs is not dramatically impaired, thus implying that other INs subtypes might be at play in the reported microcircuit alteration. Overall, this study unravels how local functional deficits of the early postnatal development of the mPFC can be induced by Dgcr2 knock‐down in PNs.
Long‐term outcome of immunologic autograft engineering
Authors: Porrata Luis F. , Inwards David J. , Ansell Stephen M. , Micallef Ivana N. , Johnston Patrick B. , Villasboas Jose C. , Paludo Jonas , Markovic Svetomir N.
Published: February 2022

Our phase III trial reported that autograft‐absolute lymphocyte count (A‐ALC) improved survival post‐autologous peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (APBHSCT) for a short‐term follow‐up of 2 years. We evaluated retrospectively in our phase III trial patients that the A‐ALC still confers survival benefit with a longer follow‐up. With a median follow‐up of 127.6 months, patients infused with an A‐ALC ≥ 0.5 × 109 cells/kg experienced better overall survival (HR = 0.392, 95% confidence of interval [CI]: 0.224–0.687, p < 0.001) and progression‐free survival (HR = 0.413, 95% CI: 0.253–0.677), p < 0.0004). This study supports that A‐ALC provides long‐term survival benefit post APBHSCT.
Synthesis and in vitro antitumor activities of novel thioamide substituted piperazinyl‐1,2,4‐triazines
Authors: Sahin Zafer , Biltekin Sevde Nur , Ozansoy Mehmet , Hemiş Bervis , Ozansoy Muzaffer Beyza , Yurttaş Leyla , Berk Barkin , Demirayak Şeref
Published: February 2022

Triazines are in great interest for their potential to mimic nucleoside analog compounds. Three different isomers exist including 1,2,3‐triazine, 1,3,5‐triazine (s‐triazine) and 1,2,4‐triazine. All of these skeletons were investigated. Among them, 5,6‐diaryltriazines were previously tested on MCF7 and other tumor cell lines. In this study, we have synthesized and characterized 9 novel 5,6‐diaryl‐1,2,4‐triazine derivatives (4a‐i) using 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and HRMS spectra. Contributing to the previous data, we tested our compounds on U87MG, C6 and SH‐SY5Y cell lines along with MCF7. We evaluated if these compounds affect CNS tumors in vitro, which cell lines have different protein profiles from MCF7 and mainly nucleosides are used as their antiproliferative agents. Briefly, compounds showed good antitumor activity on the C6 cell line with up to 50% inhibition for 7 of 9 compounds (4b, 4d‐i) at 50 μM. Additionally, compounds showed moderate activity on U87MG glioblastomas, compound 4a was the most active with 29.68 μM IC50. Compounds did not show significant activity on SH‐SY5Y cells. Cytotoxicity evaluation gave the results that the synthesized compounds show moderate cytotoxicity on NIH‐3T3 and severe cytotoxicity on HEK 293. The study leads the investigations of triazines with glioma cell lines.
Fatty acids secreted from head and neck cancer induce M2-like Macrophages
Authors: Albakri Marwah M , Huang Stanley Ching-Cheng , Tashkandi Hammad N , Sieg Scott F
Published: February 2022

Tumor-infiltrating monocytes can mature into Macrophages that support tumor survival or that display antitumor properties. To explore mechanisms steering Macrophage maturation, we assessed the effects of supernatants from squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (FaDu and SCC) on monocyte-derived Macrophage maturation. Purified monocytes were incubated in medium or medium supplemented with supernatants from FaDu and SCC9 or the leukemia monocytic cell line, THP-1. Macrophages were examined for markers of maturation (CD14, CD68), activation (HLA-DR, CD86, IL15R), scavenger receptor (CD36), toll-like receptor (TLR4), M2 marker (CD206), immune checkpoint (PD-L1), and intracellular chemokine expression (IP-10). Compared to other conditions, cells incubated with FaDu or SCC9 supernatants displayed enhanced survival, down-regulation of cell surface HLA-DR, CD86, IL-15R, CD36, and intracellular IP-10 expression, and increased cell surface PD-L1, CD14, and CD206 expression. Despite expressing TLR4 and CD14, Macrophages matured in tumor supernatants failed to respond to stimulation with the canonical TLR4 agonist, LPS. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in intracellular phospho-p38 expression in tumor supernatant conditioned Macrophages. Depletion of fatty acids from tumor supernatants or treatment of cell cultures with an inhibitor of fatty acid oxidation, Etomoxir, reversed a number of these phenotypic changes induced by tumor supernatants. Additionally, Macrophages incubated with either palmitic acid or oleic acid developed similar phenotypes as cells incubated in tumor supernatants. Together, these data suggest that fatty acids derived from tumor cells can mediate the maturation of Macrophages into a cell type with limited pro-inflammatory characteristics.
Crop residue return improved soil nitrogen availability by increasing amino acid and mineralization under appropriate N fertilization
Authors: Wang Zhi , Liu Zhitao , Hu Wei , Bai Hua , Ma Linjie , Lv Xiaobing , Zhou Zhiguo , Meng Yali
Published: February 2022

Soil organic nitrogen (SON) and its mineralization are among the most critical factors that affect soil N availability. However, it is unclear how crop residue return and chemical N fertilization affect soil N availability by altering SON and its mineralization. Therefore, we studied the SON pools, SON mineralization, and related soil properties and enzymes activities in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River Valley in China with stand ages of 7‐year N (0, 75, 150, and 300 kg N ha−1) fertilization and 4‐year barley‐cotton residue return. Regardless of residue retention or removal, the contents of total SON and its fractions (ammonium N, amino acid N, amino sugar N, and unidentified N) increased consistently with the increasing of N input, while SON mineralization, microbial biomass N content, urease and protease activities showed a curvilinear response that was highest at N rate of 150 kg N ha−1. Crop residue returning significantly increased SON content under 75 and 150 kg N ha−1, mostly due to the increase of amino acids N. Other variables, such as SON mineralization, microorganism, and enzymes, were also enhanced by residue returning, and the largest increases were observed at 150 kg N ha−1. In addition, our result also show that excessive N input (300 kg N ha−1) would reduce soil N availability by mainly suppressing microbial N processes. We concluded that crop residue combined with appropriate N has a great potential to improve soil N availability by mainly improving amino acid N content and SON mineralization.
Review of the Principles, Devices, Parameters, and Applications for Centrifugal Electrospinning
Authors: Chen Jia , Yu Zhongxun , Li Chenxi , Lv Yarong , Hong Song , Hu Ping , Liu Yong
Published: February 2022

Nanofibers have received extensive attention in the fields of biomedicine, energy catalysis, environmental sciences, and filtration owing to their high specific surface area and controllable porosity. Electrospinning and centrifugal spinning are the two most effective methods for fabricating nanofibers. However, the low preparation efficiency of electrospinning limits the use of that technology in the large‐scale production of nanofibers. The morphology of nanofibers prepared by centrifugal spinning is slightly inferior to electrospinning. Centrifugal electrospinning has great industrial application potential. It is a new method for fabricating nanofibers formed by combining centrifugal and electrostatic forces. It can efficiently fabricate nanofibers with good alignment. In particular, the use of polymer melt as the spinning precursor for centrifugal electrospinning can effectively address the problem of solvent residue in the fiber. In this review, the working principle and device used for centrifugal electrospinning is introduced, the influence of different components of the spinning device on the spinning process is discussed, and the effects of spinning parameters on fiber properties are explained. Then, some applications of nanofibers fabricated are described by centrifugal electrospinning in various areas, including energy, biomedicine, and filtration. Finally, the challenges of centrifugal electrospinning are summarized, and a perspective on future research is provided.
Gene variants of unknown significance in Fabry disease: Clinical characteristics of c.376A>G (p.Ser126Gly)
Authors: Lau Kolja , Üçeyler Nurcan , Cairns Tereza , Lorenz Lora , Sommer Claudia , Schindehütte Magnus , Amann Kerstin , Wanner Christoph , Nordbeck Peter
Published: February 2022

Background

Anderson–Fabry disease (FD) is an X‐linked lysosomal storage disorder with varying organ involvement and symptoms, depending on the underlying mutation in the alpha‐galactosidase A gene (HGNC: GLA). With genetic testing becoming more readily available, it is crucial to precisely evaluate pathogenicity of each genetic variant, in order to determine whether there is or might be not a need for FD‐specific therapy in affected patients and relatives at the time point of presentation or in the future.

Methods

This case series investigates the clinical impact of the specific GLA gene variant c.376A>G (p.Ser126Gly) in five (one heterozygous and one homozygous female, three males) individuals from different families, who visited our center between 2009 and 2021. Comprehensive neurological, nephrological and cardiac examinations were performed in all cases. One patient received a follow‐up examination after 12 years.

Results

Index events leading to suspicion of FD were mainly unspecific neurological symptoms. However, FD‐specific biomarkers, imaging examinations (i.e., brain MRI, heart MRI), and tissue‐specific diagnostics, including kidney and skin biopsies, did not reveal evidence for FD‐specific symptoms or organ involvement but showed normal results in all cases. This includes findings from 12‐year follow‐up in one patient with renal biopsy.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that p.Ser126Gly represents a benign GLA gene variant which per se does not cause FD. Precise clinical evaluation in individuals diagnosed with genetic variations of unknown significance should be performed to distinguish common symptoms broadly prevalent in the general population from those secondary to FD.
Garcinia Cambogia Improves High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Glucose Imbalance by Enhancing Calcium/CaMKII/AMPK/GLUT4‐Mediated Glucose Uptake in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Han Joo‐Hui , Kim Min‐Tae , Myung Chang‐Seon
Published: February 2022

Scope

Garcinia cambogia (G. cambogia) is known to have antiobesity effects. In this study, the therapeutic effects of G. cambogia on glucose homeostasis in obesity‐induced diabetes are explored and the underlying mechanisms are investigated.

Methods and results

C2C12 myotubes are treated with G. cambogia; glucose uptake, intracellular Ca2+ levels, and related alterations in signaling pathways are examined. High‐fat diet (HFD)‐fed mice are administered G. cambogia for 8 weeks; oral glucose tolerance is evaluated, and the regulation of identified targets of signaling pathways in quadriceps skeletal muscle are examined in vivo. G. cambogia increases glucose uptake in C2C12 myotubes and induces the upregulation of AMPK, ACC, and p38 MAPK phosphorylation. Notably, G. cambogia markedly elevates both intracellular Ca2+ levels, activating CaMKII, a Ca2+‐sensing protein, and TBC1D4‐mediated GLUT4 translocation, to facilitate glucose uptake. Furthermore, high‐glucose‐induced inhibition of glucose uptake and signal transduction is reverted by G. cambogia. In an HFD‐induced diabetes mouse model, G. cambogia administration results in significant blood glucose‐lowering effects, which are attributed to the regulation of targets that have been identified in vitro, in quadricep skeletal muscle.

Conclusion

These findings provide new insights into the mechanism by which G. cambogia regulates glucose homeostasis in obesity‐induced diabetes.
Technical note: Commissioning of an ultrasound‐compatible surrogate vaginal cylinder for transvaginal ultrasound‐based gynecologic high‐dose‐rate brachytherapy
Authors: Van Elburg Devin , Roumeliotis Michael , Fenster Aaron , Phan Tien , Meyer Tyler
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To provide a comprehensive set of commissioning tests for clinical implementation of three‐dimensional transvaginal ultrasound (3D TVUS) as a replacement of computed tomography (CT) for applicator reconstruction in gynecologic (GYN) intracavitary high‐dose‐rate brachytherapy (HDRBT) with a multi‐channel vaginal cylinder (MCVC).

Methods

We introduce an ultrasound‐compatible “surrogate” vaginal cylinder (SVC) for reconstruction of Elekta's CT‐MR Multi Channel Applicator (MCVC) in 3D TVUS. The MCVC is digitized over the SVC in 3DUS using digital library model overlay. Consulting guidelines from various sources (CPQR, GEC‐ESTRO, AAPM), we identify and describe three tests specific to commissioning the SVC: (1) verification of SVC outer dimensions, (2) source position accuracy of MCVC digitization over the SVC in 3D TVUS, and (3) MRI/US registration error.

Results

The SVC outer dimensions (diameter and A‐D marker locations) were well matched to the MCVC, however a 0.6 mm discrepancy in length between cylinder tips was observed. Source position accuracy was within 1 mm (tolerance recommended by CPQR) when reconstructing the MCVC in 3D TVUS. Dice similarity coefficients and target registration error for MRI/3D TVUS registration was similar to MRI/CT registration, which is the clinical standard.

Conclusions

These commissioning tests are performed using institutional equipment but provide the framework for any practitioner to repeat in their own setup, to demonstrate safe adoption of the 3D TVUS system for patient treatments. We demonstrate that MRI/US‐based workflow achieves similar source position accuracy and image registration error as standard MRI/CT, which is consistent with standard tolerances. This is a critical step toward replacement of CT with US in GYN HDRBT treatments with the MCVC.
Positive paraneoplastic panels: Probabilities, perils, and pearls
Authors: Preston David C. , Logigian Eric L.
Published: February 2022

See article on pages 508–512 in this issue