bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer‐testis antigen ACRBP expression and serum immunoreactivity in ovarian cancer: Its association with prognosis
Authors: Lin Lina , Nong Weixia , Luo Bin , Ge Yingying , Zeng Xia , Li Feng , Fan Rong , Zhang Qingmei , Xie Xiaoxun
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Cancer testis (CT) antigens are attractive targets for cancer immunotherapy because of their expression restriction and immunogenicity. The acrosin binding protein (ACRBP) is a member of CT antigens. This study aimed to evaluate ACRBP expression and immunogenicity in ovarian cancer (OC).

Methods

The expression level of ACRBP in OC tissues, normal ovarian tissues, and cell lines was detected via quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and immunohistochemistry. We determined the levels of ACRBP antigen and antibody in serum samples collected from patients with OC and healthy donors using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), the level of ACRBP in cell‐cultured medium was also tested.

Results

ACRBP mRNA and protein expressions were upregulated in OC tissues relative to normal tissue, especially highly expressed in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Moreover, ACRBP expression was significantly correlated with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage and chemosensitivity. Serological analysis showed that anti‐ACRBP antibody was detected in the sera of 16 of the 56 (28.5%) patients with OC but not in healthy donors. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for ACRBP antibody was 0.802 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.708–0.876), and the sensitivity and specificity for ACRBP antibody was 85.71% and 55.0%, respectively. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) in OC patients with high ACRBP expression were significantly lower than those with low expression (p = 0.040, p = 0.021). However, ACRBP antibody level was not associated with prognosis.

Conclusion

ACRBP expression was upregulated in OC tissues and induced humoral immune response in patients with OC, suggesting that ACRBP is a potential prognostic biomarker and a target of tumor immunotherapy for OC.
Tumor cell intrinsic Toll‐like receptor 4 signaling promotes melanoma progression and metastatic dissemination
Authors: Rogava Meri , Braun Andreas Dominik , van der Sluis Tetje Cornelia , Shridhar Naveen , Tüting Thomas , Gaffal Evelyn
Published: September 2021

Most melanoma‐associated deaths result from the early development of metastasis. Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression on nontumor cells is well known to contribute to tumor development and metastatic progression. The role of TLR4 expression on tumor cells however is less well understood. Here we describe TLR4 as a driver of tumor progression and metastatic spread of melanoma cells by employing a transplantable mouse melanoma model. HCmel12 melanoma cells lacking functional TLR4 showed increased sensitivity to tumor necrosis factor α induced cell killing in vitro compared to cells with intact TLR4. Interestingly, TLR4 knockout melanoma cells also showed impaired migratory capacity in vitro and a significantly reduced ability to metastasize to the lungs after subcutaneous transplantation in vivo. Finally, we demonstrate that activation of TLR4 also promotes migration in a subset of human melanoma cell lines. Our work describes TLR4 as an important mediator of melanoma migration and metastasis and provides a rationale for therapeutic inhibition of TLR4 in melanoma.
Vaccination of pregnant women against COVID‐19 in India and Indonesia: Moving beyond the opt‐in to the opt‐out option
Authors: Sarwal Yamini , Sarwal Tanvi , Sarwal Rakesh
Published: September 2021

Synopsis

In view of the continued threat of COVID‐19, and to synergize with routine antenatal care, COVID‐19 vaccination should become a default part of routine antenatal care with an opt‐out option.
Enhancing maternal sensitivity in contexts of urban extreme poverty in Sierra Leone: A pilot study
Authors: Pitillas Carlos , Berástegui Ana , Halty Amaia , Rodríguez Patricia , Kamara Mbalu , Mesman Judi
Published: September 2021

This pilot study presents preliminary data on the efficacy of Strong Bonds, Strong Pikin (SBSP), a brief intervention program that aims to enhance sensitivity among mothers who care for their preschool children in a slum settlement in Freetown (Sierra Leone). SBSP adapts principles of attachment theory to intervention within a non‐Western cultural setting, where families suffer from extreme poverty. A combination of psychoeducation, group work, video‐feedback, and storytelling defines the methodology of the program. Maternal sensitivity, parenting stress, and the use of violent discipline practices were measured before (pretest) and after the intervention (posttest) in a sample of 43 mothers who participated in the program. Analyses showed a significant increase in observed maternal sensitivity, as well as a decrease in mother‐reported parenting stress, child problems, and use of violent discipline practices from pretest to posttest. These results are discussed in terms of the potential value of culturally sensitive, attachment‐centered interventions with caregivers who raise their children in non‐Western settings affected by economic vulnerability.
Vagus nerve bundle stimulation using 1505‐nm laser irradiation in an in‐vivo rat model
Authors: Yetis Ozan , Guner Ozge , Akkaya Ibrahim , Guneli Ensari , Bagriyanik Alper , Tozburun Serhat
Published: September 2021

Laser nerve stimulation using near‐infrared laser irradiation has recently been studied in the peripheral nervous system as an alternative method to conventional electrical nerve stimulation. Bringing this method to the vagus nerve model could leverage this emerging stimulation approach to be tested in broader preclinical applications. Here, we report the capability of the laser nerve stimulation method on the rat vagus nerve bundle with a 1505‐nm diode laser operated in continuous‐wave mode. Studies of the stimulation threshold and laser‐induced acute thermal injury to the nerve bundle were also performed to determine a temperature window for safe, reliable and reproducible laser stimulation of the rat vagus nerve bundle. The results show that laser stimulation of the vagus nerve bundle provides reliable and reproducible nerve stimulation in a rat model. These results also confirm a threshold temperature of >42°C with acute nerve damage observed above 46°C. A strong correlation was obtained between the laser time required to raise the nerve temperature above the stimulation threshold and the mean arterial pressure response. Advantages of the method such as non‐contact delivery of external stimulus signals at mm scaled distance in air, enhanced spatial selectivity and electrical artefact‐free measurements may indicate its potential to counteract the side effects of conventional electrical vagus nerve stimulation.
Pyridostigmine bromide, chlorpyrifos, and DEET combined Gulf War exposure insult depresses mitochondrial function in neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Delic Vedad , Karp Joshua , Klein Julian , Stalnaker Katherine J. , Murray Kathleen E. , Ratliff Whitney A. , Myers Catherine E. , Beck Kevin D. , Citron Bruce A.
Published: September 2021

Gulf War Illness (GWI) is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a multi‐symptom illness having at least one symptom from two of three factors, which include: fatigue, mood‐cognition problems, and musculoskeletal disorders. The cluster of long‐term symptoms is unique to military personnel from coalition countries including United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom that served in Operation Desert Storm from 1990 to 1991. Reporting of these symptoms is much lower among soldiers deployed in other parts of the world like Bosnia during the same time period. The exact cause of GWI is unknown, but combined exposure to N,N‐diethyl‐m‐toluamide (DEET), organophosphates like chlorpyrifos (CPF), and pyridostigmine bromide (PB), has been hypothesized as a potential mechanism. Mitochondrial dysfunction is known to occur in most neurodegenerative diseases that share symptoms with GWI and has therefore been implicated in GWI. Although exposure to these and other toxicants continues to be investigated as potential causes of GWI, their combined impact on mitochondrial physiology remains unknown. In this study, the effects of combined GWI toxicant exposure on mitochondrial function were determined in a commonly used and readily available immortalized cell line (N2a), whose higher rate of oxygen consumption resembles that of highly metabolic neurons in vivo. We report that combined exposure containing pesticide CPF 71 μM, insect repellants DEET 78 μM, and antitoxins PB 19 μM, causes profound mitochondrial dysfunction after a 4‐h incubation resulting in decreased mitochondrial respiratory states in the absence of proapoptotic signaling, proton leak, or significant increase in reactive oxygen species production.
Identification of a six‐microRNA signature as a potential diagnostic biomarker in breast cancer tissues
Authors: Mahmoudian Mojdeh , Razmara Ehsan , Mahmud Hussen Bashdar , Simiyari Mandana , Lotfizadeh Nazanin , Motaghed Hoda , Khazraei Monfared Arefeh , Montazeri Maryam , Babashah Sadegh
Published: September 2021

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is by far the most common malignancy among women. Epigenetic modulators, microRNAs in particular, may set stages for BC development and its progression. Herein, we aimed to assess the diagnostic potentiality of a signature of six miRNAs (i.e., hsa‐miR‐25‐3p, ‐29a‐5p, ‐105‐3p, ‐181b1‐5p, ‐335‐5p, and ‐339‐5p) in BC and adjacent non‐tumor tissues.

Methods

A pair of 50 tumor and adjacent non‐tumor samples were taken from BC patients. The expression of each candidate miRNA was measured using quantitative reverse transcription PCR. To investigate the possible roles of each miRNA and their impressions on BC prognosis, in silico tools were used. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were performed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of each miRNA and the possible association of their expression with clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed.

Results

Our findings showed the upregulation of hsa‐miR‐25‐3p, ‐29a‐5p, ‐105‐3p, and ‐181b1‐5p, and the downregulation of hsa‐miR‐335‐5p and ‐339‐5p in BC tumor compared to corresponding adjacent tissues. Except for hsa‐miR‐339‐5p, the up‐/down‐regulation of the candidate miRNAs was associated with TNM stages. Except for hsa‐miR‐105‐3p, each candidate miRNA was correlated with HER‐2 status. ROC curve analysis showed that the signature of six‐miRNA is a potential biomarker distinguishing between tumor and non‐tumor breast tissue samples.

Conclusion

We showed that the dysregulation of a novel signature of six‐miRNA can be used as a potential biomarker for BC diagnosis.
Comparison of restorative materials and surface alterations after prebiotic and probiotic beverages: A nanoindentation and SEM study
Authors: Mert Eren Meltem , Ozan Gunce , Yildirim Bilmez Zuhal , Gurcan Aliye Tugce , Yucel Yasemin Yucel
Published: September 2021

The purpose was to investigate the surface characteristics of various resin‐based materials by immersing in probiotic beverages. A total of 420 disc‐shaped samples (5 mm × 2 mm) were prepared from resin‐based composites. Samples were divided into four groups and immersed for 10 min/day for 1 month in either a probiotic sachet, kefir, kombucha, or artificial saliva (control). Surface roughness was measured at baseline and 1 month. One sample of each of the tested materials was examined under nanoindentation to evaluate the reduced elasticity modulus and nanohardness scores. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to compare surface differences. Data were analyzed statistically using one‐way ANOVA test and the significance was set at p < .05. The lowest roughness scores were observed in Z250, Estelite Bulk Fill, and HRi ENA in most of the test groups. Among conventional composites, Z250 group had the highest nanohardness and elasticity modulus scores. Among bulk‐fill composites, Estelite Bulk Fill Flow had the lowest surface roughness after immersion in probiotic beverages and the highest nanohardness values. Reveal HD, as a bulk‐fill group showed higher surface roughness and considerably lower nanohardness and elasticity modulus scores. Maximum height levels of samples were recorded. SEM images revealed voids and microcracks on the surfaces of test materials. Dentists may prefer Z250 as microhybrid and Estelite Bulk Fill Flow as bulk‐fill composites for the restorations of patients who consume gut‐friendly drinks regularly. When there are various types of materials, nanoindentation is a useful method for evaluating surface alterations and sensible comparisons.
Morphological and palynological assessment of taxonomically problematic genus Paspalum based on light and scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Shaheen Shabnum , Khan Muhammad Asaf , Shahid Muhammad Naveed , Shamim Zeeshan , Rasool Bilal , Hussain Khadim , Khalid Sana , Harun Nidaa , Siddique Riffat , Sonia Romaisha , Khan Farah
Published: September 2021

Present research work was carried out to clarify the variations among species of genus Paspalum morphologically and palynologically as this genus is taxonomically difficult due to having multiple similar morphologically overlapping characters which make it difficult to identify. Henceforth present research work was carried out to delimit taxa within the same genus by morphological and palynological tools through light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both these tools are considered as the most useful taxonomic characters for taxonomically problematic genera. The results showed a lot of variations among morphological characters. In Paspalum dilatatum, the upper glume was ovate whereas in the other two species, the upper glume was elliptic. The upper glume apex found in P. dilatatum and Paspalum scrobiculatum was obtuse whereas in Paspalum distichum, upper glume apex was acute. Glume nerves showed variation in all three species. Paspalum distichum was 3 nerved, P. scrobiculatum was 5–7 nerved, and P. dilatatum was 5–9 nerved. All three species showed variation in lemma nerves. Paspalum scrobiculatum had 3 nerved lemma whereas in P. distichum 3–5 nerved and P. dilatatum 5–9 nerved lemma were present. In polar and equatorial view, pollen grains ranged from 25 (20–30) to 37.5 (30–45) μm. Paspalum distichum appeared to be the smallest in size whereas P. dilatatum was the largest. Exine thickness ranged from 0.75 (0.5–1) to 1.35 (1.2–1.5) μm. The higher value of pollen fertility was found in P. scrobiculatum as 87.69% and the lowest value was in P. distichum as 78.08%. Morphological keys were also given for correct identification.
Antimicrobial resistance in integrated agroecosystems: State of the science and future opportunities
Authors: Howe Adina C. , Soupir Michelle L.
Published: September 2021

As the Journal of Environmental Quality (JEQ) celebrates 50 years of publication, the division of environmental microbiology is one of the newest additions to the journal. During this time, significant advances in understanding of the interconnected microbial community and impact of the microbiome on natural and designed environmental systems have occurred. In this review, we highlight the intractable challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on humans, animals, and the environment, with particular emphasis on the role of integrated agroecosystems and by highlighting contributions published in JEQ. From early studies of phenotypic resistance of indicator organisms in waters systems to current calls for integrating AMR assessment across “One Health,” publications in JEQ have advanced our understanding of AMR. As we reflect on the state of the science, we emphasize future opportunities. First, integration of phenotypic and molecular tools for assessing environmental spread of AMR and human health risk continues to be an urgent research need for a one health approach to AMR. Second, monitoring AMR levels in manure is recommended to understand inputs and potential spread through agroecosystems. Third, baseline knowledge of AMR levels is important to realize the impact of manure inputs on water quality and public health risk; this can be achieved through background monitoring or identifying the source‐related genes or organisms. And finally, conservation practices designed to meet nutrient reduction goals should be explored for AMR reduction potential.
Investigative interviewing of high‐status fraud suspects
Authors: Hoekstra Manon R. , Verhoeven Willem‐Jan
Published: September 2021

While earlier studies of investigative interviews with suspects have primarily been conducted within the context of police work, few have considered the interview practices with high‐status suspects in the financial area. This article aims to provide insight into distinctive features of interviewing these suspects. The study focuses on the impact various interviewing techniques can have on suspects’ disclosing information. To this end, 205 h of audio‐recorded actual interviews with 28 high‐status suspects were examined. Next to rapport building and confrontation, displaying authoritative behaviour can be considered a separate interviewing category. A positive correlation between rapport building and information disclosure was found. Finally, challenging the accounts of suspects results in more case‐related information than an authoritative approach.
Signaling networks in B cell development and related therapeutic strategies
Authors: Ren Anwen , Sun Jianxuan , Yin Wei , Westerberg Lisa S , Miller Heather , Lee Pamela , Candotti Fabio , Guan Fei , Lei Jiahui , Gong Quan , Chen Yan , Liu Chaohong
Published: September 2021

B cells are essential for Ab production during humoral immune responses. From decades of B cell research, there is now a detailed understanding of B cell subsets, development, functions, and most importantly, signaling pathways. The complicated pathways in B cells and their interactions with each other are stage-dependent, varying with surface marker expression during B cell development. With the increasing understanding of B cell development and signaling pathways, the mechanisms underlying B cell related diseases are being unraveled as well, making it possible to provide more precise and effective treatments. In this review, we describe several essential and recently discovered signaling pathways in B cell development and take a look at newly developed therapeutic strategies targeted at B cell signaling.
The effects of idea rejection on creative self‐efficacy and idea generation: Intention to remain and perceived innovation importance as moderators
Authors: Ng Thomas W. H. , Shao Yiduo , Koopmann Jaclyn , Wang Mo , Hsu Dennis Y. , Yim Frederick H. K.
Published: September 2021

In the pursuit of innovation, it is inevitable that many employee ideas will be disapproved of by supervisors, discouraging employees' idea generation. This idea rejection–idea generation link is important to examine because it extends current thinking which treats idea generation as the beginning stage of a creative process. Guided by social cognitive theory, this study proposes that the idea rejection–idea generation link is mediated by creative self‐efficacy. We further posit that whether idea acceptance is a salient goal is a meta‐level moderator. To capture this factor, we examine intention to remain and perceived innovation importance: Idea rejection should yield a stronger negative impact on creative self‐efficacy for those who intend to remain with the organization and perceive innovation as important to the organization, as stayers who understand the importance of innovation to their employers would view idea acceptance as a salient goal and thus react most strongly to idea rejection. Data collected from a field study and a scenario experiment supported most of our hypotheses. Thus, this study highlights idea rejection as a crucial variable, directs researchers' attention to the idea rejection–idea generation relationship, and underscores the variability in employee reactions to idea rejection.
An assessment of statistical interpolation methods suited for gridded rainfall datasets
Authors: Liu Yuexiao , Zhuo Lu , Pregnolato Maria , Han Dawei
Published: September 2021

Accurate spatial distribution information of rainfall is essential to rainfall‐induced hazard predictions and statistical interpolation methods may serve as a useful tool to produce a detailed distribution from coarse data sources. Although numerous comparison studies about different interpolation methods have been conducted on irregular rain‐gauge networks, there is a need to perform such work on the increasingly available gridded rainfall data. Carried out in the Emilia‐Romagna region (Italy) from 2008 to 2018, this study aims to examine accurate and appropriate interpolation methods to produce finer rainfall surface maps based on the 0.25° × 0.25° ERA5 gridded precipitation datasets. Five interpolation techniques, namely Thiessen polygons, Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW), Thin Plate Spline (TPS), Ordinary Kriging (OK) and ordinary Co‐Kriging (CoK), have been selected and compared at different time scales (annual, monthly and annual maximum daily precipitation). To assess the accuracy, the leave‐one‐out‐cross‐validation test was used by using the indexes of Bias, correlation coefficient, the Nash‐Sutcliffe Efficiency, Root Mean Square Error and the Kling‐Gupta Efficiency (KGE). Additionally, visual inspections are employed to evaluate the plausibility of the interpolated maps. Results show: (a) All five interpolation methods have certain capabilities to improve spatial resolution, but they fail on accuracy at the daily scale. The OK generally outperforms the other four methods, while TPS shows better performance through the visual inspection at the monthly scale; (b) Unlike in the case of the interpolation using conventional point‐based rain‐gauge data, the multivariate method CoK is inferior to the univariate ones and the p‐power of the IDW also differs and (c) Winter and spring results are better than those of summer and autumn. This study has provided useful guidance on choosing suitable rainfall interpolation methods for gridded datasets, which can be expanded in other regions and data sources to explore the generality of the conclusions.
Multivariate analysis of concurrent droughts and their effects on Kharif crops—A copula‐based approach
Authors: Muthuvel Dineshkumar , Amai Mahesha
Published: September 2021

Apart from creating an ecological imbalance, drought events could affect an agrarian country's economy and food security by reducing crop yields. The antecedent meteorological droughts could prolong into hydrological and (or) agricultural droughts and may co‐exist as concurrent droughts. The current study aims to comprehensively study Indian concurrent droughts, their effects on crop yield, and possible teleconnection with ENSO (El Niño–Southern Oscillation), adopting a copula‐based multivariate approach. The copula functions can replicate the correlation among the variables and keep the dependence structure intact. The concurrent drought characteristics are computed using a multivariate standardized drought index that incorporates the three primary drought indices using the Gaussian copula. Some of the severe concurrent drought years such as 2002, 1987, 1972, and 1965 caused considerable yield losses in Kharif season crops of groundnut, millet, and rice. This prompts to construct quad‐variate models involving the crop yield and the three drought indices using the vine copulas that perform better than the elliptical and symmetric Archimedean copula. Though the isolated forms of droughts could cause mild yield losses, the probability of concurrent droughts causing high to exceptional losses is more. Further, the ENSO teleconnection with the concurrent monsoon droughts is analysed and mapped. The above‐normal warming of the Nino 3.4 region over the tropical Pacific during the months leading up to the monsoon could signal concurrent monsoon droughts in the areas under the Ganga‐Brahmaputra basin at a probability of around 45%. These results could be helpful in drought mitigation measures and policymaking.
Impact of Endometrial Thickness and Volume Compaction on the Live Birth Rate Following Fresh Embryo Transfer of In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Lam Mei T. , Li Hang W. R. , Ng Ernest H. Y.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

The aim of our study was to compare the live birth rate following fresh embryo transfer (ET) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) in women with or without endometrial compaction in thickness and volume between the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and the ET day.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of infertile women undergoing the first IVF cycle with fresh ET. A single operator performed all the ultrasound measurements for endometrial thickness and endometrial volume using three‐dimensional ultrasound. Endometrial compaction was calculated as the difference of the measurement between the hCG day and ET day. The predictive values of age of women, number of embryos transferred, and endometrial compaction in thickness and volume on live birth were studied.

Results

A total of 268 women who underwent the first IVF cycle with fresh ET between June 2005 and August 2006 were included in this retrospective analysis. Endometrial thickness was significantly higher on the ET day than the hCG day while endometrial volume was significantly smaller on the ET day than the hCG day. Women with a live birth were younger, had a higher serum estradiol level on the hCG day, and similar absolute or percentage change of endometrial thickness and volume when compared to those without a live birth.

Conclusion

Endometrial thickness and volume compaction was not a significant predictor of live birth in the multivariate logistic regression model. Endometrial thickness and volume compaction did not affect the live birth rate in the fresh IVF cycle.
Knockdown of long noncoding RNA growth arrest‐specific transcript 5 regulates forkhead box O3 to inhibit lipopolysaccharide‐induced human bronchial epithelial cell pyroptosis
Authors: Lv Ling‐Xia , Wen Mei , Lv Fei , Ji Tai‐Bing , Fu Hua‐Li , Man Ning
Published: September 2021

Pyroptosis is a novel proinflammatory programmed cell death process. This study was designed to investigate the functional mechanisms of long noncoding RNA growth arrest‐specific transcript 5 (lncRNA GAS5) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced human bronchial epithelial cell (HBEC) pyroptosis. LPS was used to induce pyroptosis in HBECs, followed by the detection of the expression of GAS5, forkhead box O3 (FOXO3), and nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 (Nrf2/HO‐1) signaling pathway‐related factors. Cell viability was evaluated using CCK‐8 assay, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release was assessed by LDH assay kit and caspase‐1 activity by flow cytometry. Furthermore, expression of NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 and pyroptosis‐related proteins was evaluated using Western blot analysis, while enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the levels of inflammatory factors. The interaction between GAS5 and FOXO3 was confirmed using bioinformatic prediction, RNA immunoprecipitation assay, RNA pull‐down, and dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay. Treatment of HBECs with LPS upregulated the expression of GAS5 and FOXO3, resulting in the inactivation of the Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway. On the other hand, inhibition of both GAS5 and FOXO3 promoted cell viability, reduced LDH release, pyroptosis, and inflammatory response in LPS‐induced HBECs. Furthermore, FOXO3 could interact with GAS5, while FOXO3 overexpression reversed the inhibitory effect of GAS5 knockdown on cell pyroptosis. Thus, mechanistically, inhibition of FOXO3 activates the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway to suppress LPS‐induced pyroptosis in HBECs. This study revealed that GAS5 knockdown attenuates FOXO3 expression thereby activating the Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway to inhibit LPS‐induced pyroptosis in HBECs. These findings may contribute to identifying novel targets that inhibit pyroptosis in HBECs.
Quality of life after radiation and transoral robotic surgery in advanced oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Kaffenberger Thomas M. , Patel Ankur K. , Lyu Lingyun , Li Jinhong , Wasserman‐Wincko Tamara , Zandberg Dan P. , Clump David A. , Johnson Jonas T. , Nilsen Marci L.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) treatment results in impaired swallowing and quality of life (QOL). We analyzed a cross‐section of advanced stage OPSCC patients treated with multimodal therapies at our Survivorship Clinic to investigate treatment factors associated with QOL.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patient‐reported outcomes (PROMs) after primary OPSCC treatment using AJCC seventh edition staging.

Results

A total of 73 patients were included (90.1% human papillomavirus positive [HPV+]). There were no QOL differences between robotic surgery with radiation ± chemotherapy patients (n = 29) and those treated by radiation ± chemotherapy (n = 44). Radiation field analysis demonstrated significant correlations between increasing doses to larynx and contralateral parotid and submandibular gland and worse swallowing as measured by the Eating Assessment Tool‐10 (P = .02; P = .01; P = .01).

Conclusions

In advanced, mostly HPV+, OPSCC, we did not find clinically significant differences between QOL PROMs between surgical and radiation ± chemotherapy treatment groups. This highlights the need for continued therapy de‐escalation along with improved interventions for treatment related toxicities.

Level of evidence

4.
Early Survivorship After Liver Transplantation: A Qualitative Study Identifying Challenges in Recovery From the Patient and Caregiver Perspective
Authors: Lieber Sarah R. , Kim Hannah P. , Baldelli Luke , Nash Rebekah , Teal Randall , Magee Gabrielle , Desai Chirag S. , Loiselle Marci M. , Lee Simon C. , Singal Amit G. , Marrero Jorge A. , Barritt A. Sidney , Evon Donna M.
Published: September 2021

Survivorship after liver transplantation (LT) is a novel concept providing a holistic view of the arduous recovery experienced after transplantation. We explored components of early survivorship including physical, emotional, and psychological challenges to identify intervention targets for improving the recovery process of LT recipients and caregivers. A total of 20 in‐person interviews were conducted among adults 3 to 6 months after LT. Trained qualitative research experts conducted interviews, coded, and analyzed transcripts to identify relevant themes and representative quotes. Early survivorship comprises overcoming (1) physical challenges, with the most challenging experiences involving mobility, driving, dietary modifications, and medication adherence, and (2) emotional and psychological challenges, including new health concerns, financial worries, body image/identity struggles, social isolation, dependency issues, and concerns about never returning to normal. Etiology of liver disease informed survivorship experiences including some patients with hepatocellular carcinoma expressing decisional regret or uncertainty in light of their post‐LT experiences. Important topics were identified that framed LT recovery including setting expectations about waitlist experiences, hospital recovery, and ongoing medication requirements. Early survivorship after LT within the first 6 months involves a wide array of physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. Patients and caregivers identified what they wish they had known prior to LT and strategies for recovery, which can inform targeted LT survivorship interventions.
Enzymatic and Chemical Approaches for Post‐Polymerization Modifications of Diene Rubbers: Current state and Perspectives
Authors: Soares Franciela Arenhart , Steinbüchel Alexander
Published: September 2021

Diene rubbers are polymeric materials which present elastic properties and have double bonds in the macromolecular backbone after the polymerization process. Post‐polymerization modifications of rubbers can be conducted by enzymatic or chemical methods. Enzymes are environmentally friendly catalysts and with the increasing demand for rubber waste management, biodegradation and biomodifications have become hot topics of research. Some rubbers are renewable materials and are a source of organic molecules, and biodegradation can be conducted to obtain either oligomers or monomers. On the other hand, chemical modifications of rubbers by click‐chemistry are important strategies for the creation and combination of new materials. In a way to expand the scope of uses to other non‐traditional applications, several and effective modifications can be conducted with diene rubbers. Two groups of efficient tools, enzymatic, and chemical modifications in diene rubbers, are summarized in this review. By analyzing stereochemical and reactivity aspects, the authors also point to some applications perspectives for biodegradation products and to rational modifications of diene rubbers by combining both methodologies.
Liquid lead–bismuth eutectic embrittlement effect on the tensile properties of T91 steel at 350°C
Authors: Liu Jing , Xiao Zunqi , Jiang Zhizhong , Luo Lin
Published: September 2021

The effects of pre‐exposure and surface notch on the tensile properties of T91 steel in oxygen saturation lead–bismuth eutectic (LBE) have been investigated by slow strain rate tensile tests at 350°C with a strain rate of 1 × 10−5 s−1, and the reference tests were performed in Ar gas. The pre‐exposure was conducted in liquid LBE at 500°C with an oxygen concentration of 10−8 wt% for 500 h. It is shown that the tensile properties of the nonpre‐exposed specimens whether with or without a notch were not affected by LBE, but obvious liquid metal embrittlement (LME) was observed on the pre‐exposure specimens. After being pre‐exposed, the notched one was more prone to liquid LBE embrittlement compared to the unnotched specimen. Morphology similar to fatigue striations was observed on the fracture surface of the notched specimen with pre‐exposure, which was probably attributed to the rapid growth of the crack. The results revealed that pre‐exposure had a critical effect on LME, and surface notch intensified this phenomenon when pre‐exposure was present.
Improved Size Uniformity of Microcapillaries in Microcapillary Films by Separate Gas Injection
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Liu Cong , Zhao Jianxiang , Bi Mingcheng , Xu Zhongbin , Huang Xing
Published: September 2021

Microcapillary films (MCFs) are microextrusion‐processed plastic films containing an array of parallel microcapillaries, and have been widely utilized as microfluidic platforms. However, the nonuniform size distribution within a single MCF strip limits the application of MCFs in monodisperse droplet generation. In this paper, the mechanisms that lead to uneven microcapillary dimensions in conventional MCFs whose gas pressures in all channels are the same is first clarified. The effect of gas pressure in a single channel on the microcapillary dimensions in the film is then studied. Finally, the size uniformity of the microcapillaries is improved by separate gas injection in different channels, providing new possibilities for the generation of highly monodisperse microdroplets.
On the multicomponent weakly interacted generalized (3 + 1)‐dimensional Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation
Authors: An Ling , Li Chuanzhong
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we study a multicomponent weakly interacted generalized (3 + 1)‐dimensional Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation (MWIGKP) from which we can get many different types of equations by choosing different coefficients. Then, we deduce the Bäcklund transformation and Hirota bilinear equations of the equation. Finally, taking the two‐component case as an example, we solve the soliton solutions and the rogue wave solutions in detail. By considering the figures of the weakly coupled rogue wave solutions, we can see that the figure corresponding to first component u is eye shaped, while the figure corresponding to the second component
is butterfly shaped.
Is there an association between parity and urinary incontinence in women during pregnancy and the first year postpartum?: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wuytack Francesca , Moran Patrick , Daly Deirdre , Begley Cecily
Published: September 2021

Aims

To systematically review the literature on possible associations between parity and urinary incontinence (UI) during pregnancy and in the first year postpartum.

Methods

We searched the databases Pubmed, CINAHL, Embase, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, MIDIRS, ClinicalTrials.gov (inception‐18 April 2020). One reviewer screened all titles. Two reviewers independently selected studies by abstract and full text. Risk of bias was assessed using the Quality In Prognosis Studies tool. Findings were synthesised in meta‐analysis or narratively. We assessed the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation Working Group approach adopted for prognostic studies.

Results

We identified 16 643 records and 39 were included. Thirty studies examined UI during pregnancy and 12 examined UI postpartum. Multiparity was associated with UI at any point in the last pregnancy (odds ratio [OR]: 1.59 [1.26–2.00], 5 studies, 1565 participants) and in the third trimester when measured by ICIQ‐SF (OR: 2.67 [1.53–4.67], 4 studies, 1150 participants), but not when studies measured the UI point prevalence (OR: 2.48 [0.91–6.79], 4 studies, 52 976 participants), or if they measured the prevalence at one point in any trimester (OR: 1.09 (0.60–1.95), 3 studies, 872 participants). At 3 months postpartum, UI was associated with multiparity (OR: 2.03 [1.35–3.06], 4 studies, 6781 participants).

Conclusions

Increased parity was associated with UI in the first year postpartum, but studies on UI during pregnancy had conflicting results. The evidence was (very) uncertain. Future studies should use comparable definitions and further explore UI sub‐types.
Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor predominantly regulates the expression of synapse‐related genes in the striatum: Insights from in vitro transcriptomics
Authors: Koshimizu Hisatsugu , Matsuoka Hidetada , Nakajima Yoshihiro , Kawai Anna , Ono Junichiro , Ohta Ken‐ichi , Miki Takanori , Sunagawa Masataka , Adachi Naoki , Suzuki Shingo
Published: September 2021

Aim

The striatum, a main component of the basal ganglia, is a critical part of the motor and reward systems of the brain. It consists of GABAergic and cholinergic neurons and receives projections of dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and serotonergic neurons from other brain regions. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays multiple roles in the central nervous system, and striatal BDNF has been suggested to be involved in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. However, the transcriptomic impact of BDNF on the striatum remains largely unknown. In the present study, we performed transcriptomic profiling of striatal cells stimulated with BDNF to identify enriched gene sets (GSs) and their novel target genes in vitro.

Methods

We carried out RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) of messenger RNA extracted from primary dissociated cultures of rat striatum stimulated with BDNF and conducted Generally Applicable Gene‐set Enrichment (GAGE) analysis on 10599 genes. Significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined by differential expression analysis for sequence count data 2 (DESeq2).

Results

GAGE analysis identified significantly enriched GSs that included GSs related to regulation and dysregulation of synaptic functions, such as synaptic vesicle cycle and addiction to nicotine and morphine, respectively. It also detected GSs related to various types of synapses, including not only GABAergic and cholinergic synapses but also dopaminergic and glutamatergic synapses. DESeq2 revealed 72 significant DEGs, among which the highest significance was observed in the apolipoprotein L domain containing 1 (Apold1).

Conclusions

The present study indicates that BDNF predominantly regulates the expression of synaptic‐function‐related genes and that BDNF promotes synaptogenesis in various subtypes of neurons in the developing striatum. Apold1 may represent a unique target gene of BDNF in the striatum.
The effect of expanded graphite/clay nanoparticles on thermal, rheological, and fire‐retardant properties of poly(butylene succinate)
Authors: Mokhena Teboho Clement , Sadiku Emmanuel Rotimi , Ray Suprakas Sinha , Mochane Mokgaotsa Jonas , Motaung Tshwafo Elias
Published: September 2021

In this study, the effect of clay nanoparticles on the flame retardancy, thermal stability, thermal degradation kinetics and rheological properties of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)/expanded graphite (EG) composites were investigated. The composites were prepared by melt blending, followed by melt compression. The results indicated that the presence of clay, improved the dispersion of the EG, as confirmed by exhibited significant increases in the rheological properties (storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″) and complex viscosity (η)) when compared to the pristine PBS. The presence of Cloisite 15 A organoclay, however, decreased the overall thermal stability of the composite material, due to its catalytic effect. The degradation kinetics revealed that the presence of EG can impede the clay's catalytic effect on the degradation process of PBS. Based on the comparison between PBS and PBS/EG composites, the flame retardancy improved after the addition of clay due to formation of char, which acted as barrier layer against heat, oxygen, and flammable gases.
Conductive, sensing stable and mechanical robust silicone rubber composites for large‐strain sensors
Authors: Zhang Jihua , Liu Xiaoyan , Feng Huadong , Wang Chao , Rong Qinfeng , Liu Mingjie
Published: September 2021

Conductive polymer composites (CPCs) with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have exhibited desirable sensing capacities to external stimuli. In this study, it is found that poor dispersion of single‐wall CNTs gives rise to low mechanical strength and unsteady responsive signal outputs of CPCs as strain sensing materials. With attempt to solve this problem, we prepare the conductive silicone rubber composites with hybrid CNT masterbatch and carbon black (CB) fillers (CNT/CB composites) by drying mixing method. Hybrid CBs separate and loosen the entanglement of CNTs in CNT/CB composites which forms more conductive paths and better dispersion of CNTs than those only with single CNTs (CNT‐composites). CNT/CB composite achieves a good conductivity, sufficient mechanical strength and high elasticity. In contrast with CNT‐composite, its reproducibility of resistance responsivity was remarkably improved at strain cycles, which display stable sensing properties for mechanically strain sensor applications. Importantly, CNT/CB composites show outdoor usage robustness, including excellent salt‐spray resistance, hot‐humidity stability and a wide operation temperature range of −40 to +50°C. It is believed that our work offers a simple approach to fabricate stable and flexible strain sensing materials, which is useful for sensor products.
HEXACO‐60 Personality Trait Inventory: Psychometric characteristics in a sample of medical students from Serbia
Authors: Ristic Ivan , Dotlic Jelena , Ignjatovic‐Ristic Dragana , Gazibara Tatjana
Published: September 2021

The 60‐item HEXACO (HEXACO‐60) Personality Trait Inventory may be strategically more important for researchers compared to the 100‐item HEXACO. The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the 60‐item HEXACO questionnaire in the Serbian language. This cross‐sectional study, conducted at three of five Faculties of Medicine during the summer semester of the 2016/2017 academic year, included 617 students. Relevant data were collected by an anonymous questionnaire. Cronbach's α and McDonald's ω coefficients for the total scale were .71 and .72, respectively. Apart from Agreeableness, all other domains showed an adequate level of internal consistency (both Cronbach's α and McDonald's ω coefficients were >.70). Random data eigenvalues obtained on the parallel analysis had higher values than initial exploratory factor analysis eigenvalues up to the sixth factor. Accordingly, it was concluded that six factors should be extracted from the Serbian HEXACO‐60. These factors corresponded in item distribution with the original ones. Based on the confirmatory factor analysis, using both 60 items and 24 facets, overall goodness of fit of the Serbian HEXACO‐60 was acceptable. Moreover, there were no domains with completely invalid indices, as there were at least two indices that were acceptable for each domain. The Serbian version of the HEXACO‐60 has acceptable psychometric properties. This shorter version with 60 items may be more suitable for brief surveys or when the time allocated to fill in a questionnaire is limited.
The effect of physical activity on anhedonia in individuals with depressive symptoms
Authors: Sun Ching‐wen , Wang Ya‐jing , Fang Yu‐qi , He Yu‐qian , Wang Xuan , So Billy C. L. , Shum David H. K. , Yan Chao
Published: September 2021

The therapeutic effect of antidepressants has been demonstrated for anhedonia in patients with depression. However, antidepressants may cause side‐effects, such as cardiovascular dysfunction. Although physical activity has minor side‐effects, it may serve as an alternative for improving anhedonia and depression. We sought to investigate whether physical activity reduces the level of anhedonia in individuals with depression. Fifty‐six university students with moderate depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory total score > 16) were divided into three training groups: the Running Group (RG, n = 19), the Stretching Group (SG, n = 19), and the Control Group (n = 18). We employed the Monetary Incentive Delay (MID) task and the Temporal Experience of Pleasure Scale (TEPS) to evaluate hedonic capacity. All participants in the RG and SG received 8 weeks of jogging and stretching training, respectively. The RG experienced an increase in the level of arousal during anticipation of a future reward and recalled less negativity towards the loss condition. The SG exhibited enhanced scores on the Anticipatory and Consummatory Pleasure subscales of the TEPS after training. Moreover, in the RG, greater improvements in anticipatory arousal ratings for pleasure and remembered valence ratings for negative affect were associated with longer training duration, lower maximum heart rate, and higher consumed calories during training. To conclude, physical activity is effective in improving anticipatory anhedonia in individuals with depressive symptoms.
S100B in maternal circulation of pregnancies complicated by FGR and brain sparing
Authors: Swissa Shani S. , Baron Joel , Tirosh Dan , Yaniv‐Salem Shimrit , Shelef Ilan , Hershkovitz Reli , Beharier Ofer
Published: September 2021

Objective

To determine whether the presence of brain sparing in fetal growth restricted (FGR) fetuses involves elevation of the cerebral injury biomarker S100B in maternal circulation.

Methods

We included 63 women with suspected small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses between 24 and 35 +6/7 weeks of gestation. Maternal plasma angiogenic factors measurements and sonographic evaluation were performed at recruitment. Next, we subdivided our SGA cohort into three groups: SGA fetuses, FGR fetuses without brain‐sparing, and FGR fetuses with brain‐sparing (FGR‐BS). Serum S100B concentration was calculated as S100B µg/L, S100B MoM, and the ratio S100B/ estimated fetal weight (EFW). We also report one case of S100B concentration surge in maternal serum following the diagnosis of fetal intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH).

Results

The FGR‐BS group had higher maternal S100B µg/L (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, respectively), S100B MoM (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively), and S100B/EFW (p < 0.001, p < 0.01, respectively), compared to the SGA and FGR groups. In the case report, maternal serum S100B concentrations were 0.0346 µg/L before, and 0.0874 µg/L after IVH occurrence.

Conclusions

S100B concentration in maternal serum increased in pregnancies complicated by FGR and brain sparing. These results may substantiate in‐utero cerebral injury and may explain the adverse neurocognitive outcomes reported for this group.