bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pitfalls of X‐chromosome inactivation testing in females with Fabry disease
Authors: Řeboun Martin , Sikora Jakub , Magner Martin , Wiederlechnerová Helena , Černá Alena , Poupětová Helena , Štorkánova Gabriela , Mušálková Dita , Dostálová Gabriela , Goláň Lubor , Linhart Aleš , Dvořáková Lenka
Published: March 2022

Fabry disease (FD) is an X‐linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in theGLAgene encoding alpha‐galactosidase A (AGAL). The impact of X‐chromosome inactivation (XCI) on the phenotype of female FD patients remains unclear. In this study we aimed to determine pitfalls of XCI testing in a cohort of 35 female FD patients. XCI was assessed by two methylation‐based and two allele‐specific expression assays. The results correlated, although some variance among the four assays was observed.GLAtranscript analyses identified crossing‐over in three patients and detected mRNA instability in three out of four analyzed null alleles. AGAL activity correlated with XCI pattern and was not influenced by the mutation type or by reduced mRNA stability. Therefore, AGAL activity may help to detect crossing‐over in patients with unstableGLAalleles. Tissue‐specific XCI patterns in six patients, and age‐related changes in two patients were observed. To avoid misinterpretation of XCI results in female FD patients we show that (i) a combination of several XCI assays generates more reliable results and minimizes possible biases; (ii) correlating XCI toGLAexpression and AGAL activity facilitates identification of cross‐over events; (iii) age‐ and tissue‐related XCI specificities of XCI patterning should be considered.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on medical genetics and genomics training: Perspective from clinical trainees
Authors: Chenbhanich Jirat , Slavotinek Anne , Tam Allison
Published: March 2022

We sought to understand how the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has affected the well‐being, clinical training, and medical education for clinical trainees in medical genetics and genomics residency and fellowship programs. All clinical genetics trainees in the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)‐accredited training programs were invited to complete a survey. 31 out of 174 trainees completed the survey. With regards to well‐being, 18 trainees reported increased anxiety, 10 had increased depression, 3 increased financial strain, 13 worsening work‐life balance, and 13 worsening physical health. There was increased telehealth utilization in both outpatient (3% before the pandemic vs. 67% during the pandemic) and inpatient clinical encounters (0% vs. 29%). The most commonly reported challenges in telehealth use were inadequate physical examination and technical problems during visits. Twenty trainees believed that the pandemic has negatively impacted overall clinical training while none reported a positive impact. We concluded that the COVID‐19 pandemic has negatively impacted most clinical genetics trainees in ACGME‐accredited training programs. Telehealth has been increasingly used with some challenges. Further studies are needed on how to optimally integrate what we have learned into the training of medical genetics and genomics in the post‐pandemic era.
Defining the mild variant of leukocyte adhesion deficiency type II (SLC35C1‐congenital disorder of glycosylation) and response to l‐fucose therapy: Insights from two new families and review of the literature
Authors: Tahata Shawn , Raymond Kimiyo , Quade Marie , Barnes Sara , Boyer Suzanne , League Stacy , Kumanovics Attila , Abraham Roshini , Jacob Eapen , Menon Prem , Morava Eva
Published: March 2022

Leukocyte adhesion deficiency type II (LAD II, also known as SLC35C1‐congenital disorder of glycosylation) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by growth and cognitive impairment, peripheral neutrophilia, recurrent infections, and the Bombay blood phenotype. A subset of patients with a milder presentation has been described with short stature and developmental delay but minimal immune and hematologic features. Some patients with LAD II benefit from oral fucose therapy, though this has not been previously studied in patients with milder disease. In this study, we describe two new patients from separate families with the milder variant of LAD II and review the published literature on this rare disorder. We demonstrate improvement in speech and cognition, CD15 expression, and core fucosylation of serum glycoproteins after 27 months of oral fucose supplementation in one patient. These patients further support the stratification of this disorder into distinct subtypes, a classical severe and an attenuated variant, and provide preliminary evidence of benefit of fucose therapy in the latter group.
Synthesis of 3,6‐Disubstituted 4‐Ethoxycarbonylpyranoindol‐1‐ones Utilizing 3‐Amino‐2‐pyrone Synthesis
Authors: Fukuoka Kota , Imai Katsutoshi , Hirano Kotaro , Goto Shinsuke , Miura Ryoya , Hachiya Iwao
Published: March 2022

Synthesis of 3,6‐disubstituted 4‐ethoxycarbonylpyranoindol‐1‐ones is developed using palladium‐catalyzed intramolecular amination of 3‐amino‐4‐(2‐bromophenyl)‐2‐pyrones prepared by the conjugate addition reaction of diethyl 2‐aminomalonate to alkynyl ketones. The transformation of the synthesized 3‐amino‐4‐(2‐bromophenyl)‐2‐pyrones via palladium‐catalyzed intramolecular amination afforded 3,6‐disubstituted 4‐ethoxycarbonylpyranoindol‐1‐ones.
Enhanced anti‐aging and anti‐corrosion performance of waterborne epoxy coating layers over the dual effects of g‐C3N4 photocatalysis
Authors: Ma Yongning , Chen Rong , Fei Guiqiang , Guo Mingyuan , Li Yanyu , Duan Yihao , Wu Xiaojing , Wang Haihua
Published: March 2022

To overcome the drawbacks of waterborne epoxy (WEP) films, various fillers were employed to eliminate the microcracks and microporous in the coating layers. Here, photocatalysis (g‐C3N4) was incorporated into WEP coating to achieve improved long‐term anti‐aging and anti‐corrosion performance via dual effects, including barrier effects through the formation of dense and uniform composite film as well as the photocatalytic effects. The chemical structure, chemical states, photoabsorption properties, and morphology of g‐C3N4/WEP films were analyzed. Effects of g‐C3N4 content on the mechanical properties, water resistance, anti‐corrosion behaviors, anti‐permeation property, and photocatalytic activity of g‐C3N4/WEP (x‐CN/WEP) composites were investigated by salt spray test, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and RhB degradation experiments. 2‐CN/WEP coating with the addition of 2% g‐C3N4 displayed the optimum mechanical property, water resistance, anti‐permeation, anti‐corrosion, and anti‐aging performance. The anti‐corrosion mechanisms of x‐CN/WEP composite coating were also summarized, which consists in the formation of chemical bonds between g‐C3N4 and WEP, uniform distribution of g‐C3N4 in WEP, and the photocatalytic performance of g‐C3N4.
Defining the role of linoleic acid in acrylic bone cement
Authors: Ayyachi Thayanithi , Pappalardo Daniela , Finne‐Wistrand Anna
Published: March 2022

Polymethylmethacrylate is clinically used as a bone cement in various orthopedic and trauma surgeries. Post the surgery, such conventional acrylic bone cement has been reported to cause adjacent vertebral fractures; modifying it by adding linoleic acid in the formulation has shown potential in averting such fractures thanks to bone‐compliant mechanical properties, besides providing convenient handling properties. Although the resulting properties are attractive, the understanding of how linoleic acid imparts such advantageous properties remain unclear. Linoleic acid is typically sterilized in an autoclave before being used in the bone cement formulation; however, there are apprehensions whether the sterilization causes degradation. In this research, sterilized and unsterilized linoleic acid were evaluated alone and with different components of bone cement, such as activator, initiator, monomer, and inhibitor, and the ensuing structural changes in linoleic acid were monitored through 1H NMR and UV–Vis. The results reveal that linoleic acid degrade due to sterilization. In addition, evidence for reactions of sterilized/unsterilized linoleic acid with activator and initiator have been collected. We hypothesize that these reactions can reduce the availability of the components for the in situ polymerization of methyl methacrylate monomer and cause the improvement in handling properties and decrease in mechanical properties.
A cigar in the left hand, a paintbrush in the right: Illustration and the anatomical sciences
Authors: Ferrigno Christopher , Smith Heather F.
Published: March 2022

The anatomical sciences heavily rely on art and illustration to convey form, depth, and relationship within living structures. Today, biomedical illustrators carry forward traditions from 16th century artists through the likes of 20th century champions such as Frank Netter to help educators and researchers convey their messages to their listening, and more importantly, viewing audiences. Biomedical illustration programs are a valuable resource for academics to package their research as published figures, including graphical abstracts, in scientific journals. Here, we describe an innovative art‐science collaboration among The Anatomical Record, the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology at Rush University, and the Master's Program in Biomedical Visualization at University of Illinois at Chicago, whose students were invited to create and submit scientific illustrations for consideration as cover art for the journal.
Construction of a Reduction‐responsive DNA Microsphere using a Reduction‐cleavable Spacer based on a Nitrobenzene Scaffold
Authors: Higashi Sayuri L. , Isogami Ayaka , Takahashi Junko , Shibata Aya , Hirosawa Koichiro M. , Suzuki Kenichi G. N. , Sawada Shunsuke , Tsukiji Shinya , Matsuura Kazunori , Ikeda Masato
Published: March 2022

Here, we describe the design and synthesis of a new reduction‐cleavable spacer (RCS) based on a nitrobenzene scaffold for constructing reduction‐responsive oligonucleotides according to standard phosphoramidite chemistry. In addition, we demonstrate that the introduction of the RCS in the middle of an oligonucleotide (30 nt) enables the construction of a self‐assembled microsphere capable of exhibiting a reduction‐responsive disassembly.
Utility of NaMoO3F as a Precursor for Homogeneous Distribution of Cobalt Dopants in Molybdenum Oxynitrides
Authors: Asakura Yusuke , Hasegawa Takuya , Yin Shu
Published: March 2022

Molybdenum nitrides and their related compounds have been focused as a catalyst for several reactions. Although the doping into molybdenum nitrides lead to the higher catalytic activity, the simultaneous control of the morphology, the crystallinity, and the dopant state in doped MoN cannot be easily achieved due to the limitation of the synthesis method. In this study, one of the mixed anion compounds, NaMoO3F was used as a precursor for molybdenum oxynitrides with hexagonal MoN phase. This route led to the homogeneous distribution of cobalt in the molybdenum oxynitride compared with that obtained by the other method. The cobalt‐doped molybdenum oxynitride from NaMoO3F exhibited high oxygen reduction reaction catalytic activity due to the high distribution of cobalt in the crystal. This paper proposes that the mixed anion compounds can be a unique precursor for the other materials to expand the controllability of materials toward improvement of their activity.
Anomalous Chiral Transfer: Supramolecular Polymerization in a Chiral Medium of a Mesogenic Molecule
Authors: Zhang Xu‐Jie , Morishita Daiki , Aoki Tsubasa , Itoh Yoshimitsu , Yano Keiichi , Araoka Fumito , Aida Takuzo
Published: March 2022

Here, we report a medium‐to‐polymer anomalous chiral transfer in the supramolecular polymerization of a tetraphenylporphyrin‐based achiral hydrogen‐bonding monomer (TPP) in a chiral medium of 5‐cyanobiphenyl CB*. A mixture of TPP in (R)‐CB* ([TPP]=7.7 mol %) at 40 °C gave a columnar oblique LC mesophase, where the individual columns were composed of an optically active helical supramolecular polymer of TPP as a consequence of a successful medium‐to‐polymer chiral transfer. Meanwhile, upon dilution of CB* with achiral 5‐cyanobiphenyl CB, the optical activity of the system showed an anomalous bell‐shaped dependency on the composition of CB*/CB, where the gabs value of 0.049 at CB*/CB=50/50 was 6.0 times larger than the gabs value of CB* alone. Such anomalous chiroptical amplification in CD is most likely due to a change in the stacking geometry of TPP in the oblique columnar LC upon lateral compression.
How teachers understand and strategize about emerging conflicts
Authors: Larsson Kristoffer , Hakvoort Ilse , Lundström Agneta
Published: March 2022

This article concerns what have been variously called mild misbehaviours, minor distractions or emerging conflicts, i.e. situations of mild tension between the teacher and pupils in the classroom. The article responds to calls for further studies on the link between how teachers understand these emerging conflicts and the strategies they suggest to handle them. We carried out two studies on primary school teachers in Sweden, using a qualitatively driven mixed‐method design, i.e. the studies were carried out sequentially using different qualitative methods. The first study, the main study, based on individual interviews with 20 teachers, used a phenomenographic approach, capturing these teachers’ different understandings of emerging conflict. The second study, the supplemental study, based on six group interviews with 18 teachers, built on the main study and used a hermeneutic approach, capturing how these teachers link a certain understanding of emerging conflicts to certain themes of suggested strategies. By utilizing this design, we were able to investigate the aforementioned link and build a model of nine different understandings, each linked to one to four strategy themes. Altogether, 22 different strategy themes, together encompassing a multitude of separate strategies, were recognized and linked to the nine different understandings. The results suggest that teachers have a more divergent and nuanced understanding of emerging conflicts, and how to handle them, than earlier studies of this link have reported. The results give valuable insights into developing more accurate quantitative surveys as well as more suitable teacher training programmes.
The 4E approach to the human microbiome: Nested interactions between the gut‐brain/body system within natural and built environments
Authors: Palacios‐García Ismael , Mhuireach Gwynne A. , Grasso‐Cladera Aitana , Cryan John F. , Parada Francisco J.
Published: March 2022

The complexity of the human mind and its interaction with the environment is one of the main epistemological debates throughout history. Recent ideas, framed as the 4E perspective to cognition, highlight that human experience depends causally on both cerebral and extracranial processes, but also is embedded in a particular sociomaterial context and is a product of historical accumulation of trajectory changes throughout life. Accordingly, the human microbiome is one of the most intriguing actors modulating brain function and physiology. Here, we present the 4E approach to the Human Microbiome for understanding mental processes from a broader perspective, encompassing one's body physiology and environment throughout their lifespan, interconnected by microbiome community structure and dynamics. We review evidence supporting the approach theoretically and motivates the study of the global set of microbial ecosystem networks encountered by a person across their lifetime (from skin to gut to natural and built environments). We furthermore trace future empirical implementation of the approach. We finally discuss novel research opportunities and clinical interventions aimed toward developing low‐cost/high‐benefit integrative and personalized bio‐psycho‐socio‐environmental treatments for mental health and including the brain‐gut‐microbiome axis.
Eu3+‐doped LaF3‐based inorganic–organic hybrid nanostructured materials for broad‐spectrum excitation and strong photoluminescence
Authors: Huang Zhiyong , Xiong Chenhan , Huang Jianhua , Zhao Tianxiang , Cao Wei , Du Guoping , Chen Nan
Published: March 2022

Inorganic–organic hybrid nanoparticles formed by lanthanide‐doped nanostructures and organic ligands have been intensively studied, which could greatly increase their photoluminescence performance as a result of the energy transfer process from organic ligands to Ln3+ ions. However, the photoluminescence intensity and excitation spectral width are still quite limited on coordinating with a single type of organic ligand. In this work, Eu3+‐doped LaF3 (LaF3:Eu3+) nanoparticles were prepared using a hydrothermal method, and were then hybridized with benzoic acid and thenoyltrifluoroacetone to form the hybrid nanostructures. After that, the hybrid nanostructures were mixed with 2,2′‐azobisisobutyronitrile and methyl methacrylate to prepare the composites. The sample obtained by hybridization and composite doping with 5% Eu3+ exhibited the best photoluminescence performance. The excitation peak width and luminescence intensity of the hybrid nanostructures were significantly increased. The excitation spectral width of the inorganic–organic mixed hybrid nanostructures was particularly enhanced, and covered the whole ultraviolet band region of solar light on Earth. The prepared composites exhibited good optical properties.
Ofloxacin‐loaded HMPB NPs for Klebsiella pneumoniae eradication in the surgical wound with the combination of PTT
Authors: Liu Tiansheng , Zhong Guowei , Tang Dongying , Liu Xu , Fan Jialong , Zhong Xianghua , Yang Yuejun , Tong Chunyi , Liu Bin , Yang Xiaoping
Published: March 2022

Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) is a common bacterium whose drug‐resistant can cause surgical failures and incurable infections in hospital patients. Thus, how to reverse or delay the resistance induction has become a great challenge for development antiresistant drug. Recently, the combination of nanomaterial‐loaded antibiotics with photothermal therapy showed the efficient antibacteria ability under a low dosage of antibiotics. In this study, a nanocomposite of HMPB NPs with inherent photothermal therapy capability was used to eradicate K. pneumoniae after loading with Ofloxacin, an antibiotic against K. pneumoniae in vitro and in vivo. The nanocomplexes named as Ofloxacin@HMPB@HA NPs showed a higher effect against K. pneumoniae by destroying cell integrity and inducing ATP leakage with the assistance of laser irradiation, compared with sole Ofloxacin@HMPB@HA NPs or laser irradiation. Surgical wound infection assay further demonstrated the efficient killing K. pneumoniae and promoting the formation of new tissues, as well, which was reflected by the rapid healing of surgical wound. In summary, these results indicate the great potential of this combinational tactic based on Ofloxacin@HMPB@HA NPs for preventing the failure caused by K. pneumoniae infection.
Screening ofBletilla striata,Bletilla ochraceaandOreorchis foliosadifferential metabolites based on metabolomics
Authors: Niu Junfeng , Li Wenna , Lu Chan , Wang Zhezhi , Dong Zhongmin
Published: March 2022

As a representative medicinal plant in the Orchidaceae,Bletilla striataplays a variety of pharmacological roles in the clinic. However, the emergence of counterfeit species is affecting the basic medicinal materials source identification process, for whichBletilla ochraceaandOreorchis foliosaof the Orchidaceae are two representative species. For this study, 13 representativeB. striatasamples, threeB. ochraceasamples and threeO. foliosasamples were selected for the systematic determination of polysaccharide yields and monosaccharide composition, and further detection of secondary metabolites by HPLC–MS. The results revealed that there was a significant difference in the yields of polysaccharides betweenB. striataandB. ochracea(p = 0.006). Although the polysaccharides of both species were composed of glucose and mannose, the molar ratio of the two monosaccharides was different, suggesting that the structures of the polysaccharides were different. The metabolomics results showed that there were no differences in the types of metabolites betweenB. striataandB. ochracea; however, there were differences in the contents of these metabolites. Although there was no significant difference in the polysaccharide yields ofB. striataandO. foliosa(p = 0.074) and the monosaccharide composition was the same (glucose and mannose), many different metabolites were screened out between them: six compounds such as C36H34O11existed only inB. striata, while substance C39H54O22was unique toO. foliosa. Therefore, based on the analysis of the polysaccharide content and monosaccharide composition, combined with phase metabolomics research, a preliminary distinction betweenB. striata,B. ochraceaandO. foliosawas achieved.
Democracy, national culture and greenhouse gas emissions: An international study
Authors: Muttakin Mohammad Badrul , Rana Tarek , Mihret Dessalegn Getie
Published: March 2022

This study examines whether a country's level of democracy is associated with greenhouse gas emission intensity of corporations and if national culture influences this association. Using cross‐country evidence, we find that firms operating in countries with strong democratic institutions are negatively associated with carbon emission intensity controlling for other country‐level variables. Democracy also moderates the positive effect of individualistic cultures on greenhouse gas emission intensity, whereas countries with high uncertainty avoidance and indulgence are associated with high emissions despite high democratic scores. That is, while the effects of democracy and culture on greenhouse gas emission intensity supplement each other, culture shapes a firm's strategy on environmental matters to a greater extent than democracy. The results are robust to alternative variable measurement.
Multimodality management of sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma in a 76‐year‐old Alaska Native female during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Adams Dara R. , Ramirez‐Garcia Richard , Ginat Daniel T. , Agrawal Nishant , Seible Dan , Cipriani Nicole A. , Horowitz Peleg , Pinto Jayant M. , Chiu Brandon L.
Published: March 2022

Sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma is a rare, highly aggressive tumor of the anterior skull base composed of malignant epithelial, mesenchymal, and neural tissue. Examination of cases in patients in minority populations is important in order to better understand the behavior of this neoplasm and outcomes of treatment in our nation's diverse population.
Structural monitoring of segmental tunnel linings: Toward safer and more resource‐efficient tunnels
Authors: Rauch Fabian , Fischer Oliver
Published: March 2022

Shield‐driven tunnels play a key role in an efficient and clean future mobility. In order to ensure their reliable operation and to allow further innovations, it is necessary to know their level of safety from a structural point of view. Only if the internal forces within the tunnel linings are known precisely, a realistic estimation of the load‐bearing capacity is possible. However, this is easier said than done, as the prediction of internal forces is subjected to major uncertainties. In case of shield‐driven tunnels in particular, there is still a great need for research on the prediction of internal forces. Therefore, in a current research project the authors are performing an in‐situ structural monitoring on segmental tunnel linings in Frankfurt (Main) to observe the development of the internal forces. A sophisticated monitoring concept, as well as an extensive calibration and validation program, ensures reliable results. This article presents the current status of the project including the general concepts, theoretical aspects, calibration tests in the tunnel segment testing rig as well as first in situ measurement data.
On the Mediated Electron Transfer of Immobilized Galactose Oxidase for Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Zhao Fangyuan , Brix Ann Cathrin , Lielpetere Anna , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Conzuelo Felipe
Published: March 2022

The use of enzymes as catalysts in chemical synthesis offers advantages in terms of clean and highly selective transformations. Galactose oxidase (GalOx) is a remarkable enzyme with several applications in industrial conversions as it catalyzes the oxidation of primary alcohols. We have investigated the wiring of GalOx with a redox polymer; this enables mediated electron transfer with the electrode surface for its potential application in biotechnological conversions. As a result of electrochemical regeneration of the catalytic center, the formation of harmful H2O2 is minimized during enzymatic catalysis. The introduced bioelectrode was applied to the conversion of bio‐renewable platform materials, with glycerol as model substrate. The biocatalytic transformations of glycerol and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) were investigated in a circular flow‐through setup to assess the possibility of substrate over‐oxidation, which is observed for glycerol oxidation but not during HMF conversion.
Uncertainty quantification of a thrombosis model considering the clotting assay PFA‐100®
Authors: Méndez Rojano Rodrigo , Zhussupbekov Mansur , Antaki James F. , Lucor Didier
Published: March 2022

Mathematical models of thrombosis are currently used to study clinical scenarios of pathological thrombus formation. As these models become more complex to predict thrombus formation dynamics high computational cost must be alleviated and inherent uncertainties must be assessed. Evaluating model uncertainties allows to increase the confidence in model predictions and identify avenues of improvement for both thrombosis modeling and anti‐platelet therapies. In this work, an uncertainty quantification analysis of a multi‐constituent thrombosis model is performed considering a common assay for platelet function (PFA‐100®). The analysis is facilitated thanks to time‐evolving polynomial chaos expansions used as a parametric surrogate for the full thrombosis model considering two quantities of interest; namely, thrombus volume and occlusion percentage. The surrogate is thoroughly validated and provides a straightforward access to a global sensitivity analysis via computation of Sobol' coefficients. Six out of 15 parameters linked to thrombus consitution, vWF activity, and platelet adhesion dynamics were found to be most influential in the simulation variability considering only individual effects; while parameter interactions are highlighted when considering the total Sobol' indices. The influential parameters are related to thrombus constitution, vWF activity, and platelet to platelet adhesion dynamics. The surrogate model allowed to predict realistic PFA‐100® closure times of 300,000 virtual cases that followed the trends observed in clinical data. The current methodology could be used including common anti‐platelet therapies to identify scenarios that preserve the hematological balance.
Using a reduced‐order model to investigate the effect of the heart rate on the aortic dissection
Authors: Keramati Hamed , Birgersson Erik , Kim Sangho , Ho Jackie P. , Leo Hwa Liang
Published: March 2022

The computational cost of a three‐dimensional (3D) fluid–structure interaction (FSI) simulation of a dissected aorta has prevented researchers from investigating the effect of a wide range of the heart rate on the hemodynamic quantities in the disease. We have presented a systematic procedure to develop a zero‐dimensional (0D) model for a dissected aorta. A series of numerical experiments were used to calculate the values for the resistance, inertance, and compliance of each lumen with irregular geometries. Having validated the results from the 0D model against those from the 3D model for one heart rate, we used the 0D model to investigate the effect of the heart rate of 50–150 bpm on the flow rates and the pressures in an idealized geometry of an aortic dissection. The 0D model showed acceptable accuracy when compared with the 3D FSI simulation. For instance, at peak systole, 7.18% relative error in the flow rate in the true lumen was observed for 0D and 3D simulations. The flow rate in the true lumen showed a stronger dependency on the heart rate, that is, 300% for the true lumen and 1.5% for the false lumen. The pressure difference between the lumina increased non‐monotonically as the heart beats faster. Because of its efficiency, the reported procedure can be used for uncertainty and sensitivity analysis of the hemodynamic quantities in a diseased aorta with complex geometries such as that of the aortic dissection.
Effects of advanced platelet‐rich fibrin combined with xenogenic bone on human periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Nguyen Meo , Nguyen Thuy Thu , Tran Ha Le Bao , Tran Dang Ngoc , Ngo Lan Thi Quynh , Huynh Nam Cong‐Nhat
Published: March 2022

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of a mixture of advanced platelet‐rich fibrin (A‐PRF) and xenogenic bone substitute material (XBSM) on the proliferation and migration of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) based on the in vitro release of growth factors.

Material and Methods

The concentrations of platelet‐derived growth factor‐AB (PDGF‐AB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) released by the A‐PRF‐XBSM mixture were estimated using enzyme‐linked immunoassay for up to 7 d. The A‐PRF‐XBSM mixture exudate was incubated with hPDLSCs. At Days 1, 3, 5, and 7, cell proliferation and migration were investigated by cell counting and wound‐healing assays.

Results

PDGD‐AB and VEGF were released from the A‐PRF‐XBSM mixture exudate for up to 7 days. hPDLSCs were cultured in media with various concentrations of the A‐PRF‐XBSM mixture exudate and exhibited their proliferation and migration ability. Furthermore, the factors released from the 100% A‐PRF‐XBSM mixture exudate had a substantial effect on cell migration, whereas those released from 4% and 20% A‐PRF‐XBSM mixture exudates stimulated hPDLSC proliferation.

Conclusions

A‐PRF‐XBSM mixture continuously released growth factors over 7 days and enhanced hPDLSC proliferation and migration. Therefore, A‐PRF in combination with XBSM might provide potential advantages for periodontal tissue regeneration.
Identification of snow mold tolerance QTL in a landrace winter wheat using linkage mapping
Authors: Phipps Savannah N. , Burke Adrienne B. , Balow Kerry , Smith Jared , Murray Timothy , Carter Arron H.
Published: March 2022

In areas of the Pacific Northwest (PNW), snow mold, a fungal disease with multiple causal agents, can have severe impacts on winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L. subsp. aestivum) yields. Growing tolerant varieties is the best option to manage the disease; however, genetic diversity for the trait is limited in local varieties. The winter wheat landrace PI 173438 has been used in Japan to improve snow mold tolerance but has not been used in PNW breeding programs. A doubled haploid population from a cross between PI 173438 and susceptible variety WA 8137 was used to identify novel quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with snow mold tolerance that would be validated using marker‐assisted selection (MAS) in two separate populations. A linkage map was developed using genotypic data collected on the PI 173438/WA 8137 population, which was then used with phenotypic data in composite interval mapping for QTL analysis. Six QTL were found associated with snow mold tolerance traits, five of which originated from PI 173438. A QTL was found on chromosome 1D that has not been reported before. The remaining QTL occurred on chromosomes that were previously reported to have snow mold tolerant QTL, some of which may be identical. Several of these QTL and linked markers were suitable for testing via MAS on separate populations revealing no significant difference amongst the three or four QTL that could be tested. Such results continue to indicate the complexity of breeding for snow mold tolerance using molecular markers.
Changes in the prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of eating disorder symptoms from 2013 to 2020 among a large national sample of U.S. young adults: A repeated cross‐sectional study
Authors: Romano Kelly A. , Lipson Sarah K. , Beccia Ariel L. , Quatromoni Paula A. , Gordon Allegra R. , Murgueitio Jose
Published: March 2022

Objective

The present study aimed to: (1) identify recent temporal changes in the prevalence of different cognitive and behavioral eating disorder (ED) symptoms, current probable EDs, lifetime ED diagnoses, and mental healthcare use among college students across the United States; (2) determine whether established disparities in ED prevalence and receiving mental healthcare have widened or narrowed over time for marginalized groups within this population.

Method

Participants included a large national sample of U.S. college students (N = 286,720) who completed the repeated cross‐sectional Healthy Minds Study from 2013 to 2020. Descriptive statistics and polynomial regressions quantified time‐trends in participants' ED symptoms and past 12‐month mental healthcare. Moderated regressions examined temporal changes in ED symptoms and mental healthcare based on sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

Individuals' engagement in different cognitive and behavioral ED symptoms, and likelihoods of exhibiting current probable EDs, reporting lifetime ED diagnoses, and (for individuals with current probable EDs) receiving therapy or counseling in the past 12‐months exhibited nonlinear increases from 2013 to 2020. Further, the prevalence of current and lifetime ED symptoms and (for symptomatic individuals) past 12‐month mental healthcare differed over time for individuals with different BMIs and gender, sexual, and racial/ethnic identities (but not ages). In particular, individuals with higher BMIs and those who identified as male, bisexual, and gay, lesbian, or queer exhibited increasing ED pathology over time.

Discussion

These findings provide important information on groups of U.S. college students that have experienced increasing burden of ED symptoms and may help guide ED prevention, treatment, and research priorities.

Public Significance

Recent temporal changes in the prevalence of eating disorder (ED) symptoms and mental healthcare were examined in a national sample of U.S. young adults.

Non‐linear increases in ED symptoms and mental healthcare were identified among U.S. young adults overall from 2013 to 2020.

U.S. young adults with higher BMIs, males, bisexual, and gay, lesbian, or queer individuals exhibited increasing ED burden over time.
Effects of climate variability on the demography of wild geladas
Authors: Sloan Evan T. , Beehner Jacinta C. , Bergman Thore J. , Lu Amy , Snyder‐Mackler Noah , Jacquemyn Hans
Published: March 2022

Nonhuman primates are an essential part of tropical biodiversity and play key roles in many ecosystem functions, processes, and services. However, the impact of climate variability on nonhuman primates, whether anthropogenic or otherwise, remains poorly understood. In this study, we utilized age‐structured matrix population models to assess the population viability and demographic variability of a population of geladas (Theropithecus gelada) in the Simien Mountains, Ethiopia with the aim of revealing any underlying climatic influences. Using data from 2008 to 2019 we calculated annual, time‐averaged, and stochastic population growth rates (λ) and investigated relationships between vital rate variability and monthly cumulative rainfall and mean temperature. Our results showed that under the prevailing environmental conditions, the population will increase (λs = 1.021). Significant effects from rainfall and/or temperature variability were widely detected across vital rates; only the first year of infant survival and the individual years of juvenile survival were definitively unaffected. Generally, the higher temperature in the hot‐dry season led to lower survival and higher fecundity, while higher rainfall in the hot‐dry season led to increased survival and fecundity. Overall, these results provide evidence of greater effects of climate variability across a wider range of vital rates than those found in previous primate demography studies. This highlights that although primates have often shown substantial resilience to the direct effects of climate change, their vulnerability may vary with habitat type and across populations.
Characteristics and outcomes of patients screened for transcatheter mitral valve implantation:1‐yearresults from theCHOICE‐MIregistry
Authors: Ben Ali Walid , Ludwig Sebastian , Duncan Alison , Weimann Jessica , Nickenig Georg , Tanaka Tetsu , Coisne Augustin , Vincentelli Andre , Makkar Raj , Webb John G. , Akodad Mariama , Muller David W.M. , Praz Fabien , Wild Mirjam G. , Hausleiter Jörg , Goel Sachin S. , von Ballmoos Moritz Wyler , Denti Paolo , Chehab Omar , Redwood Simon , Dahle Gry , Baldus Stephan , Adam Matti , Ruge Hendrik , Lange Rüdiger , Kaneko Tsuyoshi , Leroux Lionel , Dumonteil Nicolas , Tchetche Didier , Treede Hendrik , Flagiello Michele , Obadia Jean‐Francois , Walther Thomas , Taramasso Maurizio , Søndergaard Lars , Bleiziffer Sabine , Rudolph Tanja K. , Fam Neil , Kempfert Joerg , Granada Juan F. , Tang Gilbert H.L. , von Bardeleben Ralph Stephan , Conradi Lenard , Modine Thomas ,   CHOICE‐MI Investigators
Published: March 2022

Aims

Transcatheter mitral valve implantation (TMVI) represents a novel treatment option for patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) unsuitable for established therapies. The CHOICE‐MI registry aimed to investigate outcomes of patients undergoing screening for TMVI.

Methods and results

From May 2014 to March 2021, patients with MR considered suboptimal candidates for transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair (TEER) and at high risk for mitral valve surgery underwent TMVI screening at 26 centres. Characteristics and outcomes were investigated for patients undergoing TMVI and for TMVI‐ineligible patients referred to bailout‐TEER, high‐risk surgery or medical therapy (MT). The primary composite endpoint was all‐cause mortality or heart failure hospitalization after 1 year. Among 746 patients included (78.5 years, interquartile range [IQR] 72.0–83.0, EuroSCORE II 4.7% [IQR 2.7–9.7]), 229 patients (30.7%) underwent TMVI with 10 different dedicated devices. At 1 year, residual MR ≤1+ was present in 95.2% and the primary endpoint occurred in 39.2% of patients treated with TMVI. In TMVI‐ineligible patients (n = 517, 69.3%), rates of residual MR ≤1+ were 37.2%, 100.0% and 2.4% after bailout‐TEER, high‐risk surgery and MT, respectively. The primary endpoint at 1 year occurred in 28.8% of patients referred to bailout‐TEER, in 42.9% of patients undergoing high‐risk surgery and in 47.9% of patients remaining on MT.

Conclusion

This registry included the largest number of patients treated with TMVI to date. TMVI with 10 dedicated devices resulted in predictable MR elimination and sustained functional improvement at 1 year. In TMVI‐ineligible patients, bailout‐TEER and high‐risk surgery represented reasonable alternatives, while MT was associated with poor clinical and functional outcomes.
Platelets accumulate in lung lesions of tuberculosis patients and inhibit T‐cell responses and Mycobacterium tuberculosis replication in macrophages
Authors: La Manna Marco P. , Orlando Valentina , Badami Giusto D. , Tamburini Bartolo , Shekarkar Azgomi Mojtaba , Lo Presti Elena , del Nonno Franca , Petrone Linda , Belmonte Beatrice , Falasca Laura , Di Carlo Paola , Dieli Francesco , Goletti Delia , Caccamo Nadia
Published: March 2022

Platelets regulate human inflammatory responses that lead to disease. However, the role of platelets in tuberculosis (TB) pathogenesis is still unclear. Here, we show that patients with active TB have a high number of platelets in peripheral blood and a low number of lymphocytes leading to a high platelets to lymphocytes ratio (PL ratio). Moreover, the serum concentration of different mediators promoting platelet differentiation or associated with platelet activation is increased in active TB.

Immunohistochemistry analysis shows that platelets localise around the lung granuloma lesions in close contact with T lymphocytes and macrophages. Transcriptomic analysis of caseous tissue of human pulmonary TB granulomas, followed by Gene Ontology analysis, shows that 53 platelet activation‐associated genes are highly expressed compared to the normal lung tissue.

In vitro activated platelets (or their supernatants) inhibit BCG‐induced T‐ lymphocyte proliferation and IFN‐γ production. Likewise, platelets inhibit the growth of intracellular macrophages of Mycobacterium (M.) tuberculosis. Soluble factors released by activated platelets mediate both immunological and M. tuberculosis replication activities. Furthermore, proteomic and neutralisation studies (by mAbs) identify TGF‐β and PF4 as the factors responsible for inhibiting T‐cell response and enhancing the mycobactericidal activity of macrophages, respectively. Altogether these results highlight the importance of platelets in TB pathogenesis.
An Ionic Liquid Promoted Clean and Direct Conversion of Triglycerides into Bio‐Based Thermal Energy Storage Materials
Authors: Yıldırım Ayhan
Published: March 2022

In the present study, triglycerides are subjected to an ionic liquid (IL) catalyzed and solventless transesterification reaction with a series of fatty alcohols in a 1:3 ratio, respectively. In order to prepare the corresponding wax esters, triglycerides trilaurin, trimyristin, and tristearin are treated with fatty alcohols such as lauryl, myristyl, and stearyl alcohol via 1,3‐disulfonic acid imidazolium chloride catalyzed transesterification reaction under environmentally friendly conditions. The optimum duration of the transesterification reaction is determined by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and the progress of the reaction can also be easily followed by thin layer chromatography. According to these studies, the reaction takes about 2 h to complete and the corresponding wax esters are obtained successfully by recrystallization from suitable solvent mixture without tedious work‐up in good to excellent yields (86–100%).

Practical Applications: With this sustainable method, a homologous series of wax esters can be successfully synthesized as bio‐based thermal energy storage materials. The prominent aspect of this solventless method is that it allows the preparation of wax esters directly from triglycerides via an ionic liquid catalyzed process both in laboratory and industrial scale.
Highly Sensitive Square Wave Voltammetric Determination of Sunset Yellow at a Functionalized‐MWCNTs/poly(Alizarin Red‐S) Composite Modified Electrode
Authors: Güneş Mehmet , Karakaya Serkan , Dilgin Yusuf
Published: March 2022

This work presents an effective and highly sensitive electrochemical detection of Sunset Yellow (SSY) at poly(Alizarin Red‐S) and functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes composite modified glassy carbon electrode (f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE). The electrochemical response of the f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE towards SSY was examined by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square wave voltammetry (SWV). Both recorded cyclic voltammograms (CVs) and square wave voltammograms (SWVs) showed that the oxidation/reduction peaks of SSY at f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE were found to be much higher than the bare GCE, f‐MWCNTs/GCE, and poly(ALR‐S)/GCE. Calibration curves obtained from the SWVs indicated that the f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE offers a linear response in the range of 0.50 to 256 μM with a low detection limit (LOD) of 0.16 μM and the sensitivity was found to be 9686 μA mM−1 cm−2. The f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE provides excellent performance for the detection of SSY in daily life samples with high accuracy and precision.
A discrete dielectrophoresis device for the separation of malaria‐infected cells
Authors: Panklang Nitipong , Techaumnat Boonchai , Wisitsoraat Anurat , Putaporntip Chaturong , Chotivanich Kesinee , Suzuki Yuji
Published: March 2022

Malaria is a serious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites that infect red blood cells (RBCs). This paper presents the continuous separation of malaria‐infected RBCs (iRBCs) from normal blood cells. The proposed method employed the discrete dielectrophoresis (DEP) in a microfluidic device with interdigitated electrodes. Our aim is to treat a sample having high concentration of cells to realize high throughput and to prevent the clogging of the microchannel with the use of the discrete DEP. The discrete DEP force for deflecting cells in the device was controlled by adjusting the magnitude, frequency, and duty cycle of the applied voltage. The effectiveness of the proposed method was demonstrated by separating the malaria‐infected cells in samples having a cell concentration of 106 cells/µl. From experimental results, we determined the enrichment that is needed to enhance the detection in the case of low parasitemia. The enrichment of the infected cells at the device output was 3000 times as high as that of the input containing 1 infected cell to 106 normal cells. Therefore, the proposed method is highly effective and can significantly facilitate the detection of the infected cells for the identification of Malaria patients.
Zeolitic imidazolate framework‐67–modified open‐tubular column with cyclodextrin for enantioseparation in capillary electrochromatography
Authors: Ma Mingxuan , Zhang Jian , Zhang Xicheng , Kan Zigui , Du Yingxiang
Published: March 2022

The histidine‐modified zeolitic imidazolate framework [His‐ZIF‐67] was prepared with the histidine, 2‐methylimidazole, and Co2+ under ambient temperature. His‐ZIF‐67 was bonded via a glycidyl methacrylate copolymer to the internal surface of capillary and then functionalized with the NH2‐β‐cyclodextrin (NH2‐β‐CD). The materials were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherm, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In comparison with the NH2‐β‐CD@capillary, the NH2‐β‐CD@His‐ZIF‐67@capillary‐coated column shows significantly enhanced resolution for chiral molecules. The NH2‐β‐CD@His‐ZIF‐67@capillary column achieved the baseline separation of amlodipine and metoprolol (the resolution of amlodipine: 1.70; metoprolol: 1.50) and the partial separation of atenolol and propranolol (the resolution of atenolol: 1.03; propranolol: 0.60). These were attributed to the histidine modification and the features of ZIF‐67, including an excellent surface area and the abundant porosity. The pH and proportion of organic modifier in the buffer were crucial for enantioseparation performance and were evaluated in detail. The fabricated NH2‐β‐CD@His‐ZIF‐67@capillary‐coated column showed good stability and repeatability (relative standard deviation <6.3%). The molecular modeling with AutoDock and grand canonical ensemble was carried out to evaluate the interactions between chiral stationary phase and racemic drugs.
Metformin‐graphene oxide/alginate beads for the removal of toxic lead ions from aqueous media; kinetic and equilibrium studies
Authors: Abboud Ayad Sami , Ghaffarinejad Ali , Mollahosseini Afsaneh
Published: March 2022

In this study, the Met‐GO@Alg as a novel adsorbent was composed of metformin (Met), graphene oxide (GO), alginate beads (Alg) for removal of lead ions from aqueous media. The adsorbent material was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) techniques. The effect of solution pH)5(, adsorbent dosage)20 mg(, contact time)90 min(, temperature and co‐existing ions were studied and optimized. The Pb2+ adsorption nature and mechanism were adopted with various isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamic models. Hence, the adsorption kinetic process fits with the pseudo‐second‐order model (R2 > 0.97) with 95% removal efficiency at 90 min. The adsorption isotherm is well fit to the Freundlich model (R2 > 0.99) with the maximum adsorption capacity of 370 mg. g−1. Overall, Met‐GO@Alg nanocomposite revealed good efficiency, applicability, and five times reusability.