bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermische Schutzwirkung von reaktiven Brandschutzsystemen auf kleinformatigen Stahlbauteilen mit gekrümmter Oberfläche
Authors: Häßler Dustin , Hothan Sascha , Häßler Mai , Krüger Simone
Published: April 2021

Um Stahlbauteile im Brandfall vor einer zu schnellen Erwärmung zu schützen, wird häufig auf reaktive Brandschutzsysteme (RBS) zurückgegriffen. Die Produkte eigenen sich besonders aufgrund der profilfolgenden Applikationsmöglichkeit und der vergleichsweise geringen Beschichtungsdicken. Bei einer Brandbeanspruchung schäumt das RBS auf und bildet eine thermische Schutzschicht um das Stahlprofil aus. Dadurch wird die Erwärmung des Stahls verlangsamt und der temperaturbedingte Festigkeitsverlust verzögert, wodurch sich die Feuerwiderstandsdauer des Stahlbauteils verbessert. Aus Brandversuchen ist bekannt, dass die Leistungsfähigkeit von RBS auf Stahlprofilen mit gekrümmter Oberfläche meist schlechter ausfällt als bei vergleichbaren Bauteilen mit ebener Oberfläche. Zum Einfluss der Oberflächenkrümmung auf die thermische Schutzwirkung von RBS werden in dem folgenden Beitrag sowohl theoretische Hintergründe als auch die Ergebnisse aus Brandversuchen an kleinformatigen Probekörpern vorgestellt. Die systematischen Untersuchungen zeigen, dass mit zunehmender Oberflächenkrümmung die Leistungsfähigkeit des RBS tendenziell abnimmt. Bei der Beurteilung der thermischen Schutzwirkung eines RBS sollte die Oberflächenkrümmung eines Bauteils berücksichtigt werden. Die alleinige Fokussierung auf den Profilfaktor eines Stahlprofils ist i. Allg. nicht ausreichend. Die Untersuchungen bilden die Grundlage für die Entwicklung von Screening‐Tests zur Beurteilung der Eignung von RBS für gekrümmte Oberflächen, wodurch eine Vorauswahl von Produkten für diesen Einsatzzweck ermöglicht wird.
Prospects for Improved Magnesocene‐Based Magnesium Battery Electrolytes
Authors: Jankowski Piotr , Schwarz Rainer , Randon‐Vitanova Anna , Younesi Reza , Wachtler Mario , Johansson Patrik
Published: April 2021

Magnesium batteries are currently attracting a lot of interest as a next generation battery technology. One critical issue is to find a suitable electrolyte and herein we explore an electrolyte based on magnesocene (MgCp2) in tetrahydrofuran (THF), aiming for low‐voltage Mg batteries, with respect to: Mg plating characteristics, electrochemical stability windows, electrolyte speciation, and electrolyte decomposition reactions; both experimentally and computationally. Overall, the electrolyte does not seem to decompose on a Mg metal anode and most likely reduced solvation of Mg2+ by the Cp− anion is important and species such as MgCp2THF2 may play an important role for Mg plating with small overpotential. The oxidation limit is largely determined by the Cp− anion and density functional theory predicted oxidation reactions point to polymerized end‐products to be possible. Furthermore, in silico substitution studies enable us to establish the prospects of some Cp− anion derivatives to further improve the oxidative stability, but still the Mg2+ solvation must be monitored for ease of reduction and Mg plating.
Revisiting poly(A)‐binding proteins: Multifaceted regulators during gametogenesis and early embryogenesis
Authors: Zhao Long‐Wen , Fan Heng‐Yu
Published: April 2021

Post‐transcriptional regulation faces a distinctive challenge in gametes. Transcription is limited when the germ cells enter the division phase due to condensed chromatin, while gene expression during gamete maturation, fertilization, and early cleavage depends on existing mRNA post‐transcriptional coordination. The dynamics of the 3ʹ‐poly(A) tail play crucial roles in defining mRNA fate. The 3ʹ‐poly(A) tail is covered with poly(A)‐binding proteins (PABPs) that help to mediate mRNA metabolism and recent work has shed light on the number and function of germ cell‐specific expressed PABPs. There are two structurally different PABP groups distinguished by their cytoplasmic and nuclear localization. Both lack catalytic activity but are coupled with various roles through their interaction with multifunctional partners during mRNA metabolism. Here, we present a synopsis of PABP function during gametogenesis and early embryogenesis and describe both conventional and current models of the functions and regulation of PABPs, with an emphasis on the physiological significance of how germ cell‐specific PABPs potentially affect human fertility.
The power of brand nostalgia: Contrasting brand personality dimensions and consumer‐brand relationships of nostalgic and non‐nostalgic brands
Authors: Youn Seounmi , Dodoo Naa Amponsah
Published: April 2021

Integrating the theories of nostalgia, brand personality, and consumer‐brand relationships, this research examined the power of nostalgia in explaining brand personality dimensions and five relational constructs. Online survey data across two separate studies (n = 374 for both studies) with two different sets of nostalgic and non‐nostalgic brands was collected via Amazon MTurk with U.S. based participants to unravel relationships between constructs. The data analysis revealed that nostalgic brands received stronger ratings on the brand personality dimensions of sincerity, excitement, and competence in both studies. In other words, the nostalgic status of brands served as a differentiator to account for the strength of brand personality dimensions. Nostalgic brands also showed stronger brand attachment, self‐brand connections, separation distress, relationship quality, and brand engagement behaviors on social media rather than non‐nostalgic brands. These findings provide the utility of nostalgia as a marketing communication tactic that can enhance important brand‐related outcomes. Furthermore, the sincerity and excitement brand personality dimensions appeared to be important mediators to explain the link between the nostalgic status of brands and relational outcomes in both studies. Theoretically, this research advances our knowledge of the theoretical mechanism behind how the nostalgic status of brands elucidates consumer‐brand relationships by exploring the mediating role of perceived brand personality. Practically, the findings provide strategic insights into the power of channeling nostalgia in retro‐marketing campaigns by maintaining or emphasizing brand personality (e.g., sincerity, excitement, or competence), which leads to desired relational marketing outcomes.
Design, Synthesis, Antimicrobial Evaluation and in Silico Studies of Eugenol‐Sulfonamide Hybrids
Authors: Azevedo‐Barbosa Helloana , do Vale Bianca Pereira , Guidolin Rossi Grazielle , dos Santos Siqueira Fallon , Bordignon Guterres Kevim , de Campos Marli Matiko Anraku , dos Santos Thiago , Anthony Hawkes Jamie , Ferreira Dias Danielle , Neiva Lavorato Stefânia , de Souza Thiago Belarmino , Teixeira Carvalho Diogo
Published: April 2021

Using molecular hybridization, specific sulfonamide derivatives of eugenol were synthesized with subtle modifications in the allylic chain of the eugenol subunit (and also in the nature of the substituent group in the sulfonamide aromatic ring) which allowed us to study the influence of structural changes on the antimicrobial potential of the hybrids. Antimicrobial test results showed that most of the synthesized hybrid compounds showed good activity with better results than the parent compounds. Molecular docking studies of the hybrids with the essential bacterial enzyme DHPS showed complexes with low binding energies, suggesting that DHPS could be a possible target for the antibacterial sulfonamide‐eugenol hybrids. Furthermore, most of the final compounds presented similar docking poses to that of the crystallographic ligand sulfamethoxazole. The results obtained allow us to conclude that these are promising compounds for use as new leads in the search for new antibacterial sulfonamides.
Post‐application irrigation timing affects dislodgeable azoxystrobin foliar residue
Authors: Maxwell Patrick J. , Gannon Travis W.
Published: April 2021

Azoxystrobin is a systemic broad‐spectrum fungicide used extensively in turfgrass. Previous research has shown post‐application irrigation can reduce dislodgeable pesticide residues from turf; however, this management practice has not been evaluated to determine its effect on dislodgeable azoxystrobin residue or if altering post‐application irrigation timing (PAIT) can influence dislodgeable azoxystrobin. Field research was completed to assess the effect of PAIT, sample collection timing within a day and over days on dislodgeable azoxystrobin residue from perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). Research was completed in Raleigh, NC, to quantify dislodgeable azoxystrobin (0.54 lb a.i. acre–1) from perennial ryegrass foliage prior to and following PAIT (0.25 inch H2O) immediate, 4, or 144 hours after treatment (HAT). Sample collections occurred 1, 2, 3, 6, 12 or 24 days after treatment (DAT) at 7:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m. EST. From 1 to 6 DAT, treatments irrigated immediately reduced dislodgeable azoxystrobin foliar residue (<0.1–6.8% of applied) more than those irrigated 4 HAT (0.4–10.3%); which were both less than withholding irrigation 144 HAT (1.3–15.5%). Across PAIT more azoxystrobin was dislodged in the morning (1.0–12.7% of applied) compared to the afternoon (0.2–9.0%) from 1 through 6 DAT. This research will enhance turfgrass management practices intended to limit human pesticide exposure and provide information pertaining to azoxystrobin dissipation kinetics in turfgrass systems.
Enantioselective CO2 Fixation Via a Heck‐Coupling/Carboxylation Cascade Catalyzed by Nickel
Authors: Cerveri Alessandro , Giovanelli Riccardo , Sella Davide , Pedrazzani Riccardo , Monari Magda , Nieto Faza Olalla , López Carlos Silva , Bandini Marco
Published: April 2021

A novel asymmetric nickel‐based procedure has been developed in which CO2 fixation is achieved as a second step of a truncated Heck coupling. For this, a new chiral ligand has been prepared and shown to achieve enantiomeric excesses up to 99 %. The overall process efficiently furnishes chiral 2,3‐dihydrobenzofuran‐3‐ylacetic acids, an important class of bioactive products, from easy to prepare starting materials. A combined experimental and computational effort revealed the key steps of the catalytic cycle and suggested the unexpected participation of Ni(I) species in the coupling event.
Developments in the Discovery and Design of Protein Kinase D Inhibitors
Authors: Gilles Philippe , Voets Lauren , Van Lint Johan , De Borggraeve Wim M.
Published: April 2021

Protein kinase D (PKD) is a serine/threonine kinase family belonging to the Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase group. Since its discovery two decades ago, many efforts have been put in elucidating PKD's structure, cellular role and functioning. The PKD family consists of three highly homologous isoforms: PKD1, PKD2 and PKD3. Accumulating cell‐signaling research has evidenced that dysregulated PKD plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy and several cancer types. These findings led to a broad interest in the design of small‐molecule protein kinase D inhibitors. In this review, we present an extensive overview on the past and recent advances in the discovery and development of PKD inhibitors. The focus extends from broad‐spectrum kinase inhibitors used in PKD signaling experiments to intentionally developed, bioactive PKD inhibitors. Finally, attention is paid to PKD inhibitors that have been identified as an off‐target through large kinome screening panels.
A retrospective study of the Hall technique for the treatment of carious primary teeth in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Sapountzis Fani , Mahony Tanya , Villarosa Amy R. , George Ajesh , Yaacoub Albert
Published: April 2021

Objectives

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the outcome of preformed metallic crowns (PMC) utilizing the HT in carious primary molars for children treated within public dental clinics across the Sydney region.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective cohort study was designed, whereby two investigators evaluated 113 primary molars treated with HT PMCs involving 71 participants (aged between 5 and 11 years) after a minimum of 6 months post treatment. The mean time elapsed between crown placement (treatment) and the review was 1.42 years (17 months). The outcome of the HT was assessed by clinical and radiographic criteria.

Results

One hundred thirteen HT PMCs were reviewed from 71 participants. The overall success rate of PMCs placed utilizing the HT was 99%, with only one case presenting with confirmed failure.

Conclusions

HT PMCs have an overall high success rate as a treatment option in carious primary molars.
Planting density and variety intercropping improve organ biomass distribution of rapeseed to alleviate the trade‐off between yield and lodging resistance
Authors: Wang Zongkai , Wang Bo , Kuai Jie , Li Zhen , Bai Ru , Zhou Guangsheng
Published: April 2021

A split‐plot experiment was conducted to alleviate high yield and strong lodging resistance not coinciding with rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). The main plot was planting density (1.2 and 4.5 × 105 plants ha−1), and the subplots were different intercropping ratios (1:0, 0:1, 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2) of Huayouza 62 (lodging resistance) and Fengyou 520 (lodging sensitive). Our results indicated that increased density significantly decreased biomass, siliques, and yield per plant, but the population yield was enhanced by 9.3%, and intercropping increased leaf area at the bolting and anthesis, dry matter accumulation, and population yield compared to the sole crop. Increased density decreased the root neck diameter and stem breaking strength of per plant but increased the population lodging resistance, and intercropping significantly improved lodging‐related agronomy traits, increased stem breaking strength, and stem biochemical contents compared to sole cropping. The average lodging index was decreased by 17.7% and lodging angle by 11.2% at the planting density of 1.2 × 105 plants ha−1 deployed at 1:2 intercropping ratio, and at 4.5 × 105 plants ha−1 with 1:1 intercropping ratio, the average lodging index decreased 7.8% and the lodging angle by 14.1%. Total population root biomass was significantly negatively correlated with the lodging angle, but positively correlated with the harvest yield. Intercropping rapeseed varieties that differ in lodging resistance at variable density can improve the root traits of the population that alleviate the trade‐off between high yield and poor lodging resistance.
Batch and Continuous‐Flow Preparation of Biomass‐Derived Furfural Acetals over a TiO2 Nanoparticle‐Exfoliated Montmorillonite Composite Catalyst
Authors: Zhou Bo , Song Fan , Ma Xinyue , Wang Lijun
Published: April 2021

Furfural acetals with high octane value, high calorific value and high oxidation resistance are considered promising biofuels or fuel precursors with huge potential demand. However, there are few studies on efficient scalable catalyst systems, including continuous‐flow catalyst systems, for their preparation. In this work, TiO2 nanoparticles supported on exfoliated montmorillonite, with strong Lewis acid sites and abundant accessible Brønsted acid sites, is used to catalyze the acetalization reactions of biomass‐derived furfural and alcohols. Low dosage of the catalyst made the reaction reach equilibrium in a very short time (TOF=690–1305 min−1) at room temperature with the acetal as the only product. In continuous‐flow reactions, the catalyst showed a stable product output with conversion close to that for the batch reaction with a short catalyst‐reactant contact time of 150 s. Contrast experiments revealed that both Lewis and Brønsted acid sites on the catalyst were indispensable for maximizing the catalytic performance, and simultaneously activating both furfural and alcohol on the adjacent Lewis and Brønsted acid sites was proposed to be responsible for the high catalytic performance.
Non‐isolated single‐phase inverter based on an autotransformer for low‐power applications
Authors: Corrêa Douglas Rosa , de Faria Andrade Juliano , de Morais Aniel Silva , Vilefort Leandro Sousa , Tofoli Fernando Lessa
Published: April 2021

This work presents a non‐isolated single‐phase voltage‐source inverter (VSI) topology using an autotransformer to provide an alternating current (AC) output voltage whose maximum peak value can be up to twice that obtained with the conventional half‐bridge and full‐bridge inverters. Prominent advantages include a simple structure with low component count, as well as the fact that both switches are connected to a same reference node, as there is no need for isolated driver circuitry. As a possible drawback, the maximum voltage across the switches is equal to twice the input voltage, but it is still reasonable to state that the topology is adequate for low‐power, low‐input‐voltage applications. A thorough qualitative and quantitative analysis is presented, from which it is possible to derive a consistent design procedure. An experimental prototype with a rated power of 100 W, switching frequency of 20 kHz, direct current (DC) input voltage of 35 V, and rms output voltage of 37 V is developed to validate the theoretical assumptions.
Caveolin‐1‐driven membrane remodelling regulates hnRNPK‐mediated exosomal microRNA sorting in cancer
Authors: Robinson Harley , Ruelcke Jayde E. , Lewis Amanda , Bond Charles S. , Fox Archa H. , Bharti Vandhana , Wani Shivangi , Cloonan Nicole , Lai Andrew , Margolin David , Li Li , Salomon Carlos , Richards Renée S. , Farrell Aine , Gardiner Robert A. , Parton Robert G. , Cristino Alexandre S. , Hill Michelle M.
Published: April 2021

Background

Caveolae proteins play diverse roles in cancer development and progression. In prostate cancer, non‐caveolar caveolin‐1 (CAV1) promotes metastasis, while CAVIN1 attenuates CAV1‐induced metastasis. Here, we unveil a novel mechanism linking CAV1 to selective loading of exosomes with metastasis‐promoting microRNAs.

Results

We identify hnRNPK as a CAV1‐regulated microRNA binding protein. In the absence of CAVIN1, non‐caveolar CAV1 drives localisation of hnRPNK to multi‐vesicular bodies (MVBs), recruiting AsUGnA motif‐containing miRNAs and causing their release within exosomes. This process is dependent on the lipid environment of membranes as shown by cholesterol depletion using methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin or by treatment with n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Consistent with a role in bone metastasis, knockdown of hnRNPK in prostate cancer PC3 cells abolished the ability of PC3 extracellular vesicles (EV) to induce osteoclastogenesis, and biofluid EV hnRNPK is elevated in metastatic prostate and colorectal cancer.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results support a novel pan‐cancer mechanism for CAV1‐driven exosomal release of hnRNPK and associated miRNA in metastasis, which is modulated by the membrane lipid environment.
White matter alterations in young children with prenatal alcohol exposure
Authors: Kar Preeti , Reynolds Jess E. , Grohs Melody N. , Gibbard W. Ben , McMorris Carly , Tortorelli Christina , Lebel Catherine
Published: April 2021

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and social–emotional challenges. Previous neuroimaging research has identified structural brain alterations in newborns, older children, adolescents, and adults with PAE; however, little is known about brain structure in young children. Extensive brain development occurs during early childhood; therefore, understanding the neurological profiles of young children with PAE is critical for early identification and effective intervention. We studied 54 children (5.21 ± 1.11 years; 27 males) with confirmed PAE (94% also had other prenatal exposures, 74% had adverse postnatal experiences) compared with 54 age‐ and sex‐matched children without PAE. Children underwent diffusion tensor imaging between 2 and 7 years of age. Mean fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) were obtained for 10 major white matter tracts. Univariate analyses of covariance were used to test group differences (PAE vs. control) controlling for age and sex. The PAE group had higher FA in the genu of the corpus callosum and lower MD in the bilateral uncinate fasciculus. The PAE group also had lower tract volume in the corpus callosum, the bilateral inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculi, and the right superior longitudinal fasciculus. Our findings align with studies of newborns with PAE reporting lower diffusivity, but contrast those in older populations with PAE, which consistently report lower FA and higher MD. Further research is needed to understand trajectories of white matter development and how our results of higher FA/lower MD in young children connect with lower FA/higher MD observed at older ages.
Abundance, not diversity, of host beetle communities determines abundance and diversity of parasitoids in deadwood
Authors: Vogel Sebastian , Prinzing Andreas , Bußler Heinz , Müller Jörg , Schmidt Stefan , Thorn Simon
Published: April 2021

Most parasites and parasitoids are adapted to overcome defense mechanisms of their specific hosts and hence colonize a narrow range of host species. Accordingly, an increase in host functional or phylogenetic dissimilarity is expected to increase the species diversity of parasitoids. However, the local diversity of parasitoids may be driven by the accessibility and detectability of hosts, both increasing with increasing host abundance. Yet, the relative importance of these two mechanisms remains unclear. We parallelly reared communities of saproxylic beetle as potential hosts and associated parasitoid Hymenoptera from experimentally felled trees. The dissimilarity of beetle communities was inferred from distances in seven functional traits and from their evolutionary ancestry. We tested the effect of host abundance, species richness, functional, and phylogenetic dissimilarities on the abundance, species richness, and Shannon diversity of parasitoids. Our results showed an increase of abundance, species richness, and Shannon diversity of parasitoids with increasing beetle abundance. Additionally, abundance of parasitoids increased with increasing species richness of beetles. However, functional and phylogenetic dissimilarity showed no effect on the diversity of parasitoids. Our results suggest that the local diversity of parasitoids, of ephemeral and hidden resources like saproxylic beetles, is highest when resources are abundant and thereby detectable and accessible. Hence, in some cases, resources do not need to be diverse to promote parasitoid diversity.
High‐frequency spinal cord stimulation as rescue therapy for chronic pain patients with failure of conventional spinal cord stimulation
Authors: Cordero Tous Nicolas , Sánchez Corral Carlos , Ortiz García Isabel María , Jover Vidal Aarón , Gálvez Mateos Rafael , Olivares Granados Gonzalo
Published: April 2021

Background

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of 10‐kHz high‐frequency (HF10) devices as a rescue treatment in patients with failure of conventional spinal cord stimulation (SCS) therapy for chronic pain without the need to change the spinal hardware.

Methods

In this real‐world prospective study, patients with neuropathic pain treated with conventional tonic SCS in whom the therapy had failed, either during the trial phase or after a period of optimal functioning, were recruited throughout 2 years for HF10‐SCS therapy. Data on analgesia, functionality, analgesics use and treatment safety were collected 12 months after treatment.

Results

Eleven of the 18 (61%) patients included in the study were successfully rescued with HF10‐SCS. Of them, 5 out of 12 (45%) were in the trial phase and six out of six (100%) had previously functioning implants. A significant improvement in low‐back and limb pain was obtained (p = 0.003 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Treatment success was significantly associated with gender (p = 0.037), weight (p = 0.014), body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.007) and time of rescue (p = 0.015). A linear regression test confirmed a significant association between treatment failure and BMI and gender (p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that analgesic rescue with HF10‐SCS is an effective therapeutic option for non‐responders to conventional SCS, although obesity might be a limiting factor for treatment success. Nevertheless, more comprehensive studies are needed to corroborate our findings.

Significance

This study shows that high‐frequency stimulation may be useful in patients with failure of conventional tonic stimulation for chronic pain, both in the trial phase and in previously implanted subjects. The novelty of this study lies in the use of the implanted epidural electrodes, which avoids the need for further surgery. The results in terms of pain control and recovery of functionality are satisfactory. In addition, variables such as male gender and high body mass index could be predictors of therapy failure.
Malayacyclusgen. nov., the first Southeast Asian Cyclida (Crustacea) from the Early Carboniferous of Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Tang Hung Yung , Mychko Eduard V. , Feldmann Rodney M. , Schweitzer Carrie E. , Shaari Hasrizal , Sone Masatoshi
Published: April 2021

Malayacyclus terengganuensis, a new genus and species of the Cyclida (Crustacea), is reported from the Early Carboniferous (Visean) of Terengganu, eastern Peninsular Malaysia (East Malaya Block). The new genus possesses diagnostic features of both families Cyclidae and Americlidae. Plus, it develops the trifurcate posterior spines: a unique morphology that was not previously known for any cyclidan genera. Based on the possession of an anterior rostrum and optic notches, it is tentatively included in the Americlidae. This represents the first find of the Cyclida from Southeast Asia and the second from the Carboniferous of Asia (eastern Tethys).
Early Cretaceous granitic aplite in the Gaozhuang gold deposit, northern Qinling Orogenic Belt, central China: Implications for petrogenesis and metallogenesis
Authors: Liang Tao , Lu Ren , Li Longming
Published: April 2021

Petrogenesis of the Gaozhuang granitic aplites (GZGA) plays an important role in understanding the regional tectonic evolution and metallogenesis of the Gaozhuang gold deposit (GZGD) in the northern Qinling orogenic belt (NQOB). Here, we present new zircon U–Pb dating on two granitic aplite samples yielding a 25‐zircon grain weighted average age of 129 ± 1 Ma (MSWD = 0.6), suggesting that GZGA formed in the Early Cretaceous. Major element results show that GZGA are: (a) characterized by higher SiO2and alkali and lower MgO and CaO, belonging to the high‐K calc–alkaline series; (b) enriched in large‐ion lithophile elements and depleted in high‐field‐strength elements, which show negative spider–diagram anomalies of Nb, Ta, P, and Ti; (c) enriched in light rare earth elements and depleted in heavy rare earth elements without obvious Eu negative anomalies and (La/Yb)Nratios ranging from 71.9–107. GZGA compositional variation is controlled mainly by source composition and degree of partial melting and suggests no obvious relationship with fractional crystallization. GZGA samples belongs to the adakite, showing higher Sr (346–528 ppm), lower in Y (4.71–5.67 ppm) and Yb (0.26–0.33 ppm), and Sr/Y ratios of 63.5–93.2, indicating that GZGA originated from partial melting of the thickened lower crust (source depth >50 km) with residual phases of garnet, rutile, and insignificant plagioclase. Results find that GZGA is a product of the Early Cretaceous regional lithosphere delamination, in which Gaozhuang area adakitic aplite magmas and ore‐bearing fluids were discharged nearly simultaneously, and the mixed magma–fluid systems crystallized, forming GZGA and GZGD, while rapidly ascending to the shallow crust along faults. Using GZGA, a prospecting indicator, we infer that the deep part of the GZGD should possess endogenetic Au metallogenic potential.
Distinct effects of the basal ganglia and cerebellum on the thalamocortical pathway in idiopathic generalized epilepsy
Authors: Gong Jinnan , Jiang Sisi , Li Zhiliang , Pei Haonan , Li Qifu , Yao Dezhong , Luo Cheng
Published: April 2021

The aberrant thalamocortical pathways of epilepsy have been detected recently, while its underlying effects on epilepsy are still not well understood. Exploring pathoglytic changes in two important thalamocortical pathways, that is, the basal ganglia (BG)‐thalamocortical and the cerebellum‐thalamocortical pathways, in people with idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE), could deepen our understanding on the pathological mechanism of this disease. These two pathways were reconstructed and investigated in this study by combining diffusion and functional MRI. Both pathways showed connectivity changes with the perception and cognition systems in patients. Consistent functional connectivity (FC) changes were observed mainly in perception regions, revealing the aberrant integration of sensorimotor and visual information in IGE. The pathway‐specific FC alterations in high‐order regions give neuroimaging evidence of the neural mechanisms of cognitive impairment and epileptic activities in IGE. Abnormal functional and structural integration of cerebellum, basal ganglia and thalamus could result in an imbalance of inhibition and excitability in brain systems of IGE. This study located the regulated cortical regions of BG and cerebellum which been affected in IGE, established possible links between the neuroimaging findings and epileptic symptoms, and enriched the understanding of the regulatory effects of BG and cerebellum on epilepsy.
Modified vacuum‐assisted closure (EndoVAC) therapy for treatment of pharyngocutaneous fistula: Case series and a review of the literature
Authors: Steinbichler Teresa Bernadette , Wolfram Dolores , Runge Annette , Hartl Roland , Dejaco Daniel , Rauchenwald Tina , Pototschnig Claus , Riechelmann Herbert , Schartinger Volker Hans
Published: April 2021

Background

Pharyngocutaneous fistula is a potential life‐threatening complication following head and neck surgery. There is only limited evidence about the efficacy of vacuum‐assisted closure (VAC) therapy and endoscopic vacuum‐assisted closure (EndoVAC) therapy for the treatment of pharyngocutaneous fistulas.

Methods

In this article, we report on a consecutive case series of six male patients with pharyngocutaneous fistula treated with a modified outside‐in EndoVAC technique. We also present a review of the current related literature.

Results

EndoVAC therapy alone was successful in five of the six patients (83.3%) with a median duration of EndoVAC therapy of 18.5 days (range: 7 to 32 days) and a median number of EndoVAC sponge changes of 4 (range: 1 to 9 changes). One patient needed additional reconstructive surgery after prior radiochemotherapy and jejunal transfer. No treatment‐related complications were observed.

Conclusion

EndoVAC therapy is an easy‐to‐perform, safe procedure for the treatment of pharyngocutaneous fistulae.
Characteristics and outcomes of COVID‐19 pneumonia in pregnancy compared with infected nonpregnant women
Authors: Vizheh Maryam , Muhidin Salut , Aghajani Faezeh , Maleki Zohreh , Bagheri Fereshteh , Hosamirudsari Hadiseh , Aleyasin Ashraf , Tehranian Afsaneh
Published: April 2021

Objective

To compare the clinical and paraclinical features and outcomes of pregnant and nonpregnant women with COVID‐19.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective cohort study of pregnant and nonpregnant women of reproductive age hospitalized between March and October 2020 in Tehran, Iran. Medical records were reviewed and women who tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 on RT‐PCR were included. Extracted data were compared and logistic regression performed.

Results

A total of 110 pregnant and 234 nonpregnant COVID‐19‐positive women were included. Frequency of severe disease was higher in nonpregnant women than pregnant women (29% vs 11.8%; P < 0.001). Symptoms including cough, dyspnea, chill, fatigue, and headache were more frequent in nonpregnant women (P < 0.05). Pregnant women had higher oxygen saturation levels and lower lymphocyte count (P = 0.001). Six (5.5%) pregnant and 12 (5.1%) nonpregnant women died (P = 0.80). No significant differences between the groups were found for ICU admission and end organ failure. Significantly more nonpregnant women had acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS, 9.4% vs 0%; P = 0.001). Univariate regression indicated association between hypertension and death; oxygen saturation and ARDS; and body mass index and ICU admission. No association was found between pregnancy and death, ICU admission, or ARDS.

Conclusion

Pregnant women with COVID‐19 are not at higher risk of adverse outcomes compared with nonpregnant women.
Automatic detection and segmentation of lung nodules in different locations from CT images based on adaptive α‐hull algorithm and DenseNet convolutional network
Authors: Zhang Xiaofang , Li Suxiao , Zhang Bin , Dong Jie , Zhao Shujun , Liu Xiaomin
Published: April 2021

Automatic lung nodules detection and segmentation can assist doctors in better diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer. However, precise detection and segmentation are still challenging, because lung nodules can have different contours or locations and may be attached to other tissues, such as neighboring blood vessel and pleural surface. In this study, an automatic detection and segmentation method for lung nodules in different locations has been developed. First, we apply Otsu thresholding to segment lung parenchyma. Next, a morphological opening operation is carried out to remove blood vessels. Then α‐hull operation is proposed to correct lung contours and optimal α values can be acquired adaptively. Finally, DenseNet convolutional network is applied to classify true lung nodules from all nodule candidates. We select the intersection area of at least three radiologists' annotations as ground truth and validate our method on 466 nodules including well‐circumscribed, juxta‐vascular, juxta‐pleural, and pleural tail. Our study not only concentrates on false positive reduction but also evaluates segmentation performance. To give a more comprehensive quantitative evaluation of nodule segmentation, we use evaluation metrics including Jaccard index (JI), dice similar coefficient (DSC), Hausdorff distance, under‐segmentation rate, over‐segmentation rate, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and false positive rate. Overall results are 0.6385 ± 0.1309, 0.7710 ± 0.1057, 3.5123 ± 3.1251, 0.1769 ± 0.1308, 0.1848 ± 0.1463, 0.7936 ± 0.1417, 0.9998 ± 0.0003, 0.9997 ± 0.0003, and 0.0002 ± 0.0003, respectively. These metrics can demonstrate segmentation performance in multiple dimensions. As a general and automatic detection and segmentation framework for lung nodules in different locations, this study achieves better performance than previous approaches in JI and DSC.
Engineering and polymeric composition of drug‐eluting suture: A review
Authors: Deng Xiaoxuan , Qasim Muhammad , Ali Azam
Published: April 2021

Sutures are the most popular surgical implants in the global surgical equipment market. They are used for holding tissues together to achieve wound closure. However, controlling the body's immune response to these “foreign bodies” at site of infection is challenging. Natural polymers such as collagen, silk, nylon, and cotton, and synthetic polymers such as polycaprolactone, poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid), poly(p‐dioxanone) and so forth, contribute the robust foundation for the engineering of drug‐eluting sutures. The incorporation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with polymeric composition of suture materials is an efficient way to reduce inflammatory reaction in the wound site as well as to control bacterial growth, while allowing wound healing. The incorporation of polymeric composition in surgical sutures has been found to add high flexibility as well as excellent physical and mechanical properties. Fabrication processes and polymer materials allow control over drug‐eluting profiles to effectively address wound healing requirements. This review outlines and discusses (a) polymer materials and APIs used in suture applications, including absorbable and nonabsorbable sutures; (b) suture structures, such as monofilament, multifilament, barded and smart sutures; and (c) the existing manufacturing techniques for drug‐eluting suture production, including electrospinning, melt‐extrusion and coating.
Gain-of-Function Lrp5 Mutation Improves Bone Mass and Strength and Delays Hyperglycemia in a Mouse Model of Insulin-Deficient Diabetes
Authors: Leanza Giulia , Fontana Francesca , Lee Seung-Yon , Remedi Maria S. , Schott Céline , Ferron Mathieu , Hamilton-Hall Malcolm , Alippe Yael , Strollo Rocky , Napoli Nicola , Civitelli Roberto
Published: April 2021

High fracture rate and high circulating levels of the Wnt inhibitor, sclerostin, have been reported in diabetic patients. We studied the effects of Wnt signaling activation on bone health in a mouse model of insulin-deficient diabetes. We introduced the sclerostin-resistant Lrp5A214V mutation, associated with high bone mass, in mice carrying the Ins2Akita mutation (Akita), which results in loss of beta cells, insulin deficiency, and diabetes in males. Akita mice accrue less trabecular bone mass with age relative to wild type (WT). Double heterozygous Lrp5A214V/Akita mutants have high trabecular bone mass and cortical thickness relative to WT animals, as do Lrp5A214V single mutants. Likewise, the Lrp5A214V mutation prevents deterioration of biomechanical properties occurring in Akita mice. Notably, Lrp5A214V/Akita mice develop fasting hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance with a delay relative to Akita mice (7 to 8 vs. 5 to 6 weeks, respectively), despite lack of insulin production in both groups by 6 weeks of age. Although insulin sensitivity is partially preserved in double heterozygous Lrp5A214V/Akita relative to Akita mutants up to 30 weeks of age, insulin-dependent phosphorylated protein kinase B (pAKT) activation in vitro is not altered by the Lrp5A214V mutation. Although white adipose tissue depots are equally reduced in both compound and Akita mice, the Lrp5A214V mutation prevents brown adipose tissue whitening that occurs in Akita mice. Thus, hyperactivation of Lrp5-dependent signaling fully protects bone mass and strength in prolonged hyperglycemia and improves peripheral glucose metabolism in an insulin independent manner. Wnt signaling activation represents an ideal therapeutic approach for diabetic patients at high risk of fracture. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Implication of scanning electron microscopy in the seed morphology with special reference to three subfamilies of Fabaceae
Authors: Waheed Abdul , Ahmad Mushtaq , Ghufran Muhammad Asad , Jabeen Asma , Ozdemir Fethi Ahmet , Zafar Muhammad , Sultana Shazia , Shah Muhammad Ajmal , Majeed Salman , Khan Aamir Shehzad
Published: April 2021

The current research work was aimed to determine the morphological variation in the seeds of subfamilies Caesalpinioideae, Mimosoideae, and Papilionoideae using scanning electron microscope to investigate the different seed features including; Seed length, width, weight, hilum shape, position, fracture line pattern, pleurogram shape, texture crudeness, ornamentation wall, and surface ornamentation. A total of 12 species were collected. The study reveals that the seed types alters from psilate to rugose, pleurogram shape from lunar to U shape, hilum shape from elliptical to depressed, hilum position from terminal to subterminal, fracture line pattern from reticulate irregular ridges to psilate with regular ridges, texture crudeness from fine to coarse, surface ornamentation from reticulate to psilate, and ornamentation wall also varies from thin to thick. In all the studied species, it was found that seed surface was brown in color except in Senna alata, in which seed surface was black. Regarding the seed size, it was found that the smallest seed was observed for Sesbania sesban, while the largest seed was observed for Pongamia pinnata. The present research article indicates the taxonomic significance of seed morphology in the subfamilies Caesalpinioideae, Mimosaceae, and Papilionoideae.
Using the swimbladder as a respiratory organ and/or a buoyancy structure—Benefits and consequences
Authors: Pelster Bernd
Published: April 2021

A swimbladder is a special organ present in several orders of Actinopterygians. As a gas‐filled cavity it contributes to a reduction in overall density, but on descend from the water surface its contribution as a buoyancy device is very limited because the swimbladder is compressed by increasing hydrostatic pressure. It serves, however, as a very efficient organ for aerial gas exchange. To avoid the loss of oxygen to hypoxic water at the gills many air‐breathing fish show a reduced gill surface area. This, in turn, also reduces surface area available for other functions, so that breathing air is connected to a number of physiological adjustments with respect to ion homeostasis, acid–base regulation and nitrogen excretion. Using the swimbladder as a buoyancy structure resulted in the loss of its function as an air‐breathing organ and required the development of a gas secreting mechanism. This was achieved via the Root effect and a countercurrent arrangement of the blood supply to the swimbladder. In addition, a detachable air space with separated blood supply was necessary to allow the resorption of gas from the swimbladder. Gas secretion as well as gas resorption are slow phenomena, so that rapid changes in depth cannot instantaneously be compensated by appropriate volume changes. As gas‐filled cavities the respiratory swimbladder and the buoyancy device require surfactant. Due to high oxygen partial pressures inside the bladder air‐exposed tissues need an effective reactive oxygen species defense system, which is particularly important for a swimbladder at depth.
Conscience clauses in genetic counseling: Awareness and attitudes
Authors: Bonine Shea , Bell Megan , Fishler Kristen , Berninger Taylor , Erickson Lindsay
Published: April 2021

Conscience clauses are laws that allow healthcare providers to refuse to participate in legal medical services based on moral or ethical objections. Genetic counselors encounter a variety of ethical and moral issues, including counseling about abortions. Currently, three states (Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Virginia) have genetic counseling conscience clause laws that allow genetic counselors to refuse to counsel about abortions. Conscience clause laws applying to physicians and pharmacists have been studied; however, they have not been studied in genetic counseling to date. We conducted an exploratory study assessing conscience clause awareness, attitudes, perceived obligations if utilizing a conscience clause, and alignment with the National Society of Genetic Counseling (NSGC) Code of Ethics. Genetic counselors (n = 274) currently practicing in the United States completed an online survey recruited through the NSGC listserv. The majority of participants were not aware that conscience clauses exist for genetic counseling (90%). There was uncertainty about whether genetic counselors had the right to utilize a conscience clause in practice (24% said yes, 31% said no, and 45% were unsure/needed more information). The majority reported an obligation to refer a patient if implementing a conscience clause (90%), although there were discrepancies among what constitutes an appropriate referral. When asked about the interaction between conscience clauses and the NSGC Code of Ethics, 45% believe they are separate and one does not supersede the other, 31% felt the Code of Ethics supersedes, 8% felt conscience clauses supersede, and 16% were unsure. Our study shows overall uncertainty with how conscience clause laws may be applied in clinical practice. Further clarity and education, especially in states where these laws exist, is critical to navigate the interaction between conscience clause laws and genetic counseling practice.
Association of DNA repair gene XPC Ala499Val (rs2228000 C>T) and Lys939Gln (rs2228001 A>C) polymorphisms with the risk of chronic myeloid leukemia: A case–control study in a South Indian population
Authors: Lakkireddy Samyuktha , Aula Sangeetha , Kapley Atya , Gundeti Sadashivudu , Kutala Vijay Kumar , Jamil Kaiser
Published: April 2021

Background

Xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C (XPC), a DNA repair protein, plays an important role in the maintenance of genomic integrity and is essential for the nucleotide excision repair pathway. Polymorphisms in the XPC gene may alter DNA repair leading to genetic instability and oncogenesis. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between the XPC Ala499Val (rs2228000 C>T) and Lys939Gln (rs2228001 A>C) non‐synonymous polymorphisms and susceptibility to chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) pathogenesis, disease progression and the response to targeted therapeutic regimen, imatinib mesylate.

Methods

This case–control study included 212 cases and 212 controls, and the genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism assays.

Results

Our results showed significant association of variant CT (odds ratio = 1.92, 95% confidence interval = 1.21–3.06, p = 0.003) and TT (odds ratio = 2.84, 95% confidence interval = 1.22–6.71, p = 0.007) genotypes in patients with the XPC Ala499Val polymorphism and CML risk. In addition, these genotypes were associated with CML progression to advanced phases (p = 0.006), splenomegaly (p = 0.017) and abnormal lactate dehydrogenase levels (p = 0.03). XPC Lys939Gln was found to correlate with a poor response to therapy, showing borderline significant association with minor cytogenetic response (p = 0.08) and a poor molecular response (p = 0.06). Significant association of the Ala499Val and Lys939Gln polymorphisms with prognosis was observed (Hasford high risk, p = 0.031 and p = 0.019, respectively). Haplotype analysis showed a strong correlation of variant TC haplotype with poor therapy responses (minor cytogenetic response, p = 0.019; poor molecular response, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In conclusion, our results suggest that XPC Ala499Val is a high‐penetrance CML susceptibility polymorphism. Both polymorphisms studied are considered as genetic markers with respect to assessing disease progression, therapy response and prognosis in CML patients.