bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical characterization of erosion and sediment transport mechanics in shallow tidal environments. Part 2: suspended sediment dynamics
Authors: Tognin Davide , D'Alpaos Andrea , D'Alpaos Luigi , Rinaldo Andrea , Carniello Luca
Published: February 2023

A proper understanding of sediment transport dynamics, critically
including resuspension and deposition processes of suspended sediments,
is key to the morphodynamics of shallow tidal environments. Aiming to
account for deposition mechanics in a synthetic theoretical framework
introduced to model erosion dynamics, here we investigated suspended
sediment dynamics. A complete spatial and temporal coverage of suspended
sediment concentration (SSC) required to effectively characterize
resuspension events is hardly available through observation alone, even
combining point measurements and satellite images, but it can be
retrieved by properly calibrated and tested numerical models. We
analyzed one-year-long time series of SSC computed by a bi-dimensional,
finite-element model in six historical configurations of the Venice
Lagoon in the last four centuries. Following the peak-over-threshold
theory, we statistically characterized suspended sediment dynamics by
analyzing interarrival times, intensities and durations of
over-threshold SSC events. Our results confirm that, as for erosion
events, SSC can be modeled as a marked Poisson process in the intertidal
flats for all the considered historical configurations of the Venice
Lagoon because exponentially distributed random variables well describe
interarrival times, intensity and duration of over-threshold
events. Moreover, interarrival times, intensity and duration describing
local erosion and over-threshold SSC events are highly related, although
not identical because of the non-local dynamics of suspended sediment
transport related to advection and dispersion processes. Owing to this
statistical characterization of SSC events, it is possible to generate
synthetic, yet realistic, time series of SSC for the long-term modeling
of shallow tidal environments.
Target Lipid Model and Empirical Organic Carbon Partition Coefficients Predict Sediment Toxicity of Polychlorinated Biphenyls to Benthic Invertebrates
Authors: Fuchsman Phyllis , Fetters Kyle , O'Connor Alison
Published: February 2023

Quantifying causal exposure–response relationships for polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) toxicity to benthic invertebrates can be an important component of contaminated sediment assessments, informing cleanup decisions and natural resource injury determinations. Building on prior analyses, we demonstrate that the target lipid model accurately predicts aquatic toxicity of PCBs to invertebrates, providing a means to account for effects of PCB mixture composition on the toxicity of bioavailable PCBs. We also incorporate updated data on PCB partitioning between particles and interstitial water in field-collected sediments, to better account for effects of PCB mixture composition on PCB bioavailability. To validate the resulting model, we compare its predictions with sediment toxicity data from spiked sediment toxicity tests and a variety of recent case studies from sites where PCBs are the primary sediment contaminant. The updated model should provide a useful tool for both screening-level and in-depth risk analyses for PCBs in sediment, and it should aid in diagnosing potential contributing factors at sites where sediment toxicity and benthic community impairment are observed. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:1134–1151. © 2023 SETAC
Economic burden of type 2 diabetes in Iran: A cost‐of‐illness study
Authors: Jalilian Habib , Heydari Somayeh , Imani Ali , Salimi Mozhgan , Mir Nazanin , Najafipour Farzad
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent public health problem worldwide, and the economic burden of the disease poses one of the main challenges for health systems in low‐ and middle‐income countries. This study aimed to estimate the economic burden of T2DM in Iran, in 2018.

Methods

This was a cost‐of‐illness study. Three hundred and seventy‐five patients with T2DM who were referred to Imam Reza and Sina's educational and therapeutic centers and Asad Abadi clinic in Tabriz, Iran, in 2018 were included. A researcher‐constructed checklist was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using EXCEL and SPSS software version 22.

Results

Total economic burden of diabetes was estimated at 152,443,862,480.3 (purchasing power parity [PPP], Current International $) (approximately 7.69% of GDP, PPP, Current International $). The mean total direct and indirect costs were 11,278.68 (PPP) (62.35% of mean total cost) and 6808.88 (PPP, Current International $) (37.64% of the total cost), respectively. The mean total direct medical cost and the direct nonmedical cost were 10,819.43 (PPP, Current International $) (59.81% of mean total cost) and 459.24 (PPP, Current International $) (2.53% of mean total cost) per patient, respectively. Besides, the mean direct medical cost was 6.18 times the total per capita expenditure on health, and the total direct medical cost was 8.9% times the total expenditure on health.

Conclusion

Diabetes imposes a substantial economic burden on patients, health systems, and the whole economy. Besides, since the cost of the disease in patients treated with insulin and those with diabetes complications is significantly higher, the reinforcement of self‐care measures and focusing on modifying lifestyle (dietary modification and physical activity) in patients with T2DM can significantly reduce the costs of the disease.
Frequency of respiratory symptoms among rice mill workers in Bangladesh: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Choudhury Shah A. R. A. , Rayhan Abu , Ahmed Shamim , Chakrabortty Rajashish , Rahman Mohammed A. , Masud Abdullah A. , Paul Susanta K. , Sami Al Hasan Ahmed
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims

Rice mill workers are frequently exposed to rice dust specks containing bacteria, endotoxins, spores, and chemicals in workplaces. Consequently, they develop diverse respiratory symptoms that lead to increased disability and social burden. The present study was conducted to observe the frequency of respiratory symptoms among rice mill workers in Bangladesh.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted at different rice mills in Rangpur district of Bangladesh. Three hundred and forty‐six rice mill workers, both male and female of 18 years and above, with a job experience of at least 3 years, were selected as study subjects. An equal number of people who had never worked at rice mills were selected from the nearby locality as the nonexposed group. Enquiries were made regarding respiratory symptoms with the help of a preformed questionnaire which contained sociodemographic characteristics, occupational history, potential confounding factors, and physical parameters. A respiratory dust sampler was used to measure workplace dust concentration.

Results

The presence of one or more respiratory symptoms was significantly higher among rice mill workers than in the nonexposed group (52.3% vs. 17.6%). Rice mill workers who worked for more than 10 h and had a working experience of more than 15 years had a higher frequency of respiratory symptoms (41.3% and 39.8%, respectively). Rice mill workers with body mass index (BMI) <18.5 also exhibited more respiratory symptoms (25.4%). All working sections had a higher‐than‐average dust concentration level, with the milling section being the dustiest (PM 2.5 492.1 µg/m3).

Conclusion

This study showed an increased frequency of respiratory symptoms among rice mill workers of Bangladesh. Longer working experience and working hours, low BMI and high dust concentration levels were strongly associated with that increase in frequency.
Individual‐level determinants of COVID‐19 vaccination in pregnant people in East Tennessee
Authors: Ehrlich Samantha F. , Maples Jill , Burnette Sara , Rand Bethany , Zite Nikki , Paudel Alissa , Fortner Kimberly
Published: February 2023

Objective

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection during pregnancy increases the risk of severe illness and death. This study describes individual‐level determinants of COVID‐19 vaccination among pregnant people in East Tennessee.

Methods

Advertisements for the online Moms and Vaccines survey were placed in prenatal clinics in Knoxville, Tennessee. Determinants were compared between unvaccinated individuals and those partially or fully vaccinated for COVID‐19.

Results

Wave 1 of the Moms and Vaccines study included 99 pregnant people: 21 (21.2%) were unvaccinated and 78 (78.8%) were partially or fully vaccinated. Compared with the unvaccinated individuals, the partially or fully vaccinated patients more often obtained information about COVID‐19 from their prenatal care provider (8 [38.1%] vs. 55 [70.5%], P = 0.006) and indicated higher levels of trust in that information (4 [19.1] vs. 69 [88.5%], P < 0.0001). Misinformation was higher in the unvaccinated group overall, although there was no difference in concern for the severity of COVID‐19 infection during pregnancy by vaccination status (1 [5.0%] of the unvaccinated vs. 16 [20.8%] of the partially or fully vaccinated, P = 0.183).

Conclusion

Strategies to counter misinformation are of the utmost importance, particularly pregnancy‐ and reproductive health–related misinformation, because of the increased risk of severe disease faced by unvaccinated pregnant individuals.
Effect of evernic acid on human breast cancer MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐453 cell lines via thioredoxin reductase 1: A molecular approach
Authors: Kalın Şeyda Nur , Altay Ahmet , Budak Harun
Published: February 2023

Thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1) has emerged as an important target for anticancer drug development due to its overexpression in many human tumors including breast cancer. Due to the serious side effects of currently used commercial anticancer drugs, new natural compounds with very few side effects and high efficacy are of great importance in cancer treatment. Lichen secondary metabolites, known as natural compounds, have diverse biological properties, including antioxidant and anticancer activities. Herein, we aimed to determine the potential antiproliferative, antimigratory, and apoptotic effects of evernic acid, a lichen secondary metabolite, on breast cancer MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐453 cell lines and afterward to investigate whether its anticancer effect is exerted by TrxR1‐targeting. The cytotoxicity results indicated that evernic acid suppressed the proliferation of MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐453 cells in a dose‐dependent manner and the IC50 values were calculated as 33.79 and 121.40 μg/mL, respectively. Migration assay results revealed the notable antimigratory ability of evernic acid against both cell types. The expression of apoptotic markers Bcl2 associated X, apoptosis regulator, Bcl2 apoptosis regulator, and tumor protein p53 by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis showed that evernic acid did not induce apoptosis in both cell lines, consistent with flow cytometry results. Evernic acid showed its anticancer effect via inhibiting TrxR1 enzyme activity rather than mRNA and protein expression levels in both cell lines. In conclusion, these findings suggest that evernic acid has the potential to be evaluated as a therapeutic agent in breast cancer treatment.
Therapeutic effects of atorvastatin on doxorubicin‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats via antioxidative damage, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐lipotoxicity
Authors: Wu Yan‐Zhao , Wang Ke‐Xin , Ma Xin‐di , Wang Chu‐Chu , Chen Nan‐Nan , Xiong Chen , Li Jun‐Xia , Su Su‐Wen
Published: February 2023

Doxorubicin (DOX), is a high efficiency anthracycline antitumor drug. However, the clinical application of DOX is limited mainly by dose‐related adverse drug reactions. Currently, the therapeutic effects of Atorvastatin (ATO) on DOX‐induced hepatotoxicity were studied in vivo. The results indicated that DOX impaired hepatic function, as measured by an increased levels of liver weight index and serum concentrations of aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase, as well as alteration of hepatic histology. In addition, DOX increased the serum levles of triglyceride (TG) and nonestesterified fatty acid. ATO prevented these changes. Mechanical analysis revealed that ATO restored the changes of malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen radical species, glutathione peroxidase and manganese superoxide dismutase. Additionally, ATO inhibited the increased expression levels of nuclear factor‐kappa B and interleukin 1β, hence suppressing inflammation. Meanwhile, ATO inhibited cell apoptosis by dramatically decreasing the Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio. In addition, ATO mitigated the lipidtoxicity by inhibiting the adipolysis of TG and accelerating hepatic lipid metabolism. Taken together, the results suggest ATO has therapeutic effect on DOX‐induced hepatotoxicity via inhibition of oxidative damage, inflammatory and apoptosis. In addition, ATO attenuates DOX‐induced hyperlipidemia via modulation of lipid metabolism.
Kylin 1.0: An ab‐initio density matrix renormalization group quantum chemistry program
Authors: Xie Zhaoxuan , Song Yinxuan , Peng Fangwen , Li Jianhao , Cheng Yifan , Zhang Lingzhi , Ma Yingjin , Tian Yingqi , Luo Zhen , Ma Haibo
Published: February 2023

The accurate evaluation of electron correlations is highly necessary for the proper descriptions of the electronic structures in strongly correlated molecules, ranging from bond‐dissociating molecules, polyradicals, to large conjugated molecules and transition metal complexes. For this purpose, in this paper, a new ab‐initio quantum chemistry program Kylin 1.0 for electron correlation calculations at various quantum many‐body levels, including configuration interaction (CI), perturbation theory (PT), and density matrix renormalization group (DMRG), is presented. Furthermore, fundamental quantum chemistry methods such as Hartree‐Fock self‐consistent field (HF‐SCF) and the complete active space SCF (CASSCF) are also implemented. The Kylin 1.0 program possesses the following features: (1) a matrix product operator (MPO) formulation‐based efficient DMRG implementation for describing static electron correlation within a large active space composed of more than 100 orbitals, supporting both and symmetries; (2) an efficient second‐order DMRG‐self‐consistent field (SCF) implementation; (3) an externally contracted multi‐reference CI (MRCI) and Epstein‐Nesbet PT with DMRG reference wave functions for including the remaining dynamic electron correlation outside the large active spaces. In this paper, we introduce the capabilities and numerical benchmark examples of the Kylin 1.0 program.
Evaluation of the Impact of Ritlecitinib on Organic Cation Transporters Using Sumatriptan and Biomarkers as Probes
Authors: Wang Xiaoxing , Purohit Vivek , Dowty Martin E. , Rodrigues David , Luo Lina , Mathialagan Sumathy , Carey William , Plotka Anna , Kalluru Hindu , Melissa O'Gorman , Kaplan Julia , Huh Yeamin , Vourvahis Manoli , Wolk Robert M.
Published: February 2023

Ritlecitinib, an inhibitor of Janus kinase 3 and hepatocellular carcinoma family kinases, is in development as potential treatment for several inflammatory diseases. In vitro studies presented ritlecitinib as an inhibitor of hepatic organic cation transporter (OCT) 1, renal transporters OCT2 and multidrug and toxin extrusion (MATE) proteins 1/2K using multiple substrates, and ritlecitinib's major inactive metabolite M2, as an inhibitor of OCT1. A clinical interaction study with an OCT1 drug probe (sumatriptan) and relevant probe biomarkers for OCT/MATE was conducted to assess the effect of ritlecitinib on these transporters in healthy adult participants. The selectivity of sumatriptan for OCT1 was confirmed through a series of in vitro uptake assays. A simple static model was used to help contextualize the observed changes in sumatriptan area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC). Coadministration of a single 400‐mg dose of ritlecitinib increased sumatriptan AUC from time 0 to infinity (AUCinf) by ≈30% relative to a single 25‐mg sumatriptan administration alone. When administered 8 hours after a ritlecitinib dose, sumatriptan AUCinf increased by ≈50% relative to sumatriptan given alone. Consistent with OCT1 inhibition, the AUC from time 0 to 24 hours of isobutyryl‐L‐carnitine decreased by ≈15% after ritlecitinib. Based on the evaluation of the renal clearance of N1‐methylnicotinamide, ritlecitinib does not exert clinically meaningful inhibition on renal OCT2 or MATE1/2K. This study confirmed that ritlecitinib and M2 are inhibitors of OCT1 but not OCT2 or MATE1/2K in healthy adults.
Association of anorexia/appetite loss with malnutrition and mortality in older populations: A systematic literature review
Authors: Fielding Roger A. , Landi Francesco , Smoyer Karen E. , Tarasenko Lisa , Groarke John
Published: February 2023

Anorexia/appetite loss in older subjects is frequently underrecognized in clinical practice, which may reflect deficient understanding of clinical sequelae. Therefore, we performed a systematic literature review to assess the morbidity and mortality burden of anorexia/appetite loss in older populations. Following PRISMA guidelines, searches were run (1 January 2011 to 31 July 2021) in PubMed, Embase® and Cochrane databases to identify English language studies of adults aged ≥ 65 years with anorexia/appetite loss. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts and full text of identified records against pre‐defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Population demographics were extracted alongside risk of malnutrition, mortality and other outcomes of interest. Of 146 studies that underwent full‐text review, 58 met eligibility criteria. Most studies were from Europe (n = 34; 58.6%) or Asia (n = 16; 27.6%), with few (n = 3; 5.2%) from the United States. Most were conducted in a community setting (n = 35; 60.3%), 12 (20.7%) were inpatient based (hospital/rehabilitation ward), 5 (8.6%) were in institutional care (nursing/care homes) and 7 (12.1%) were in other (mixed or outpatient) settings. One study reported results separately for community and institutional settings and is counted in both settings. Simplified Nutritional Appetite Questionnaire (SNAQ Simplified, n = 14) and subject‐reported appetite questions (n = 11) were the most common methods used to assess anorexia/appetite loss, but substantial variability in assessment tools was observed across studies. The most commonly reported outcomes were malnutrition and mortality. Malnutrition was assessed in 15 studies, with all reporting a significantly higher risk of malnutrition in older individuals with anorexia/appetite loss (vs. without) regardless of country or healthcare setting (community n = 9, inpatient n = 2, institutional n = 3, other n = 2). Of 18 longitudinal studies that assessed mortality risk, 17 (94%) reported a significant association between anorexia/appetite loss and mortality regardless of either healthcare setting (community n = 9, inpatient n = 6, institutional n = 2) or method used to assess anorexia/appetite loss. This association between anorexia/appetite loss and mortality was observed in cohorts with cancer (as expected) but was also observed in older populations with a range of comorbid conditions other than cancer. Overall, our findings demonstrate that, among individuals aged ≥ 65 years, anorexia/appetite loss is associated with increased risk of malnutrition, mortality and other negative outcomes across community, care home and hospital settings. Such associations warrant efforts to improve and standardize screening, detection, assessment and management of anorexia/appetite loss in older adults.
Biotreatment of discarded fruit juices and simultaneous lipid production using Leptolyngbya sp.
Authors: Patrinou Vasiliki , Antonopoulou Georgia , Ntaikou Ioanna , Tekerlekopoulou Athanasia G.
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Fruit juices are an exceptional source of nutrients; however, due to their short shelf‐life and vulnerability to microbial degradation, large volumes of juice are regularly discarded worldwide. As a wastewater, discarded fruit juices (DFJ) possess high organic loads with significant amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus, making them a suitable substrate for microbial growth and to produce natural bioactive compounds.

RESULTS

Discarded fruit juices (DFJ) were treated and simultaneously valorized (producing microbial lipids) using a microbial consortium dominated by the photosynthetic cyanobacterium Leptolyngbya sp. The effects of N:P and C:N ratios on growth and lipid production were examined, along with the ability of the consortium to biotreat DFJ in laboratory‐scale (LS) reactors. Using the optimum nutrient ratios (N:P 5:1, C:N 50.2:1), scaled‐up reactors (aquariums) were then tested under suspended and attached growth conditions. The biomass produced was further exploited for lipid production and the results revealed that Leptolyngbya sp. was able to produce up to 19% d.w. lipids and simultaneously efficiently treat DFJ. High dissolved‐chemical oxygen demand (d‐COD), total nitrogen, and PO43− removal rates (85.0% and 93.9%, 93.4% and 95.2%, 84.6% and 83.9%, respectively) were achieved in both the suspended and attached growth systems, along with high biomass productivities (316.3, 340.0 mg L−1 day−1, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The biological approach used in this study demonstrated that is possible to exploit DFJ and achieve satisfactory lipid contents (up to 19% d.w.) using a cyanobacterial‐based consortium. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Categorical versus dimensional structure of autism spectrum disorder: A multi‐method investigation
Authors: Frazier Thomas W. , Chetcuti Lacey , Al‐Shaban Fouad A. , Haslam Nick , Ghazal Iman , Klingemier Eric W. , Aldosari Mohammed , Whitehouse Andrew J. O. , Youngstrom Eric A. , Hardan Antonio Y. , Uljarević Mirko
Published: February 2023

Background

A key question for any psychopathological diagnosis is whether the condition is continuous or discontinuous with typical variation. The primary objective of this study was to use a multi‐method approach to examine the broad latent categorical versus dimensional structure of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Method

Data were aggregated across seven independent samples of participants with ASD, other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), and non‐ASD/NDD controls (aggregate Ns = 512–16,755; ages 1.5–22). Scores from four distinct phenotype measures formed composite “indicators” of the latent ASD construct. The primary indicator set included eye gaze metrics from seven distinct social stimulus paradigms. Logistic regressions were used to combine gaze metrics within/across paradigms, and derived predicted probabilities served as indicator values. Secondary indicator sets were constructed from clinical observation and parent‐report measures of ASD symptoms. Indicator sets were submitted to taxometric‐ and latent class analyses.

Results

Across all indicator sets and analytic methods, there was strong support for categorical structure corresponding closely to ASD diagnosis. Consistent with notions of substantial phenotypic heterogeneity, the ASD category had a wide range of symptom severity. Despite the examination of a large sample with a wide range of IQs in both genders, males and children with lower IQ were over‐represented in the ASD category, similar to observations in diagnosed cases.

Conclusions

Our findings provide strong support for categorical structure corresponding closely to ASD diagnosis. The present results bolster the use of well‐diagnosed and representative ASD groups within etiologic and clinical research, motivating the ongoing search for major drivers of the ASD phenotype. Despite the categorical structure of ASD, quantitative symptom measurements appear more useful for examining relationships with other factors.
Hyperbolic modeling and assessment of hypothetical health behaviors during a viral outbreak using crowdsourced samples
Authors: Rzeszutek Mark J. , DeFulio Anthony , Brown Hayley D. , Cardoso São Mateus Cristal
Published: February 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic provided an opportunity to investigate factors related to public response to public health measures, which could help better prepare implementation of similar measures for inevitable future pandemics. To understand individual and environmental factors that influence likelihood in engaging in personal and public health measures, three crowdsourced convenience samples from Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) completed likelihood‐discounting tasks of engaging in health behaviors given a variety of hypothetical viral outbreak scenarios. Experiment 1 assessed likelihood of mask wearing for a novel virus. Experiment 2 assessed vaccination likelihood based on efficacy and cost. Experiment 3 assessed likelihood of seeking health care based on number of symptoms and cost of treatment. Volume‐based measures and three‐dimensional modeling were used to analyze hypothetical decision making. Hypothetical public and personal health participation increased as viral fatality increased and generally followed a hyperbolic function. Public health participation was moderated by political orientation and trust in science, whereas treatment‐seeking was only moderated by income. Analytic methods used in this cross‐sectional study predicted population‐level outcomes that occurred later in the pandemic and can be extended to various health behaviors.
Verbal behavior development theory and relational frame theory: Reflecting on similarities and differences
Authors: Sivaraman Maithri , Barnes‐Holmes Dermot , Greer R. Douglas , Fienup Daniel M. , Roeyers Herbert
Published: February 2023

Relational frame theory and verbal behavior development theory are two behavior‐analytic perspectives on human language and cognition. Despite sharing reliance on Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior, relational frame theory and verbal behavior development theory have largely been developed independently, with initial applications in clinical psychology and education/development, respectively. The overarching goal of the current paper is to provide an overview of both theories and explore points of contact that have been highlighted by conceptual developments in both fields. Verbal behavior development theory research has identified how behavioral developmental cusps make it possible for children to learn language incidentally. Recent developments in relational frame theory have outlined the dynamic variables involved across the levels and dimensions of arbitrarily applicable relational responding, and we argue for the concept of mutually entailed orienting as an act of human cooperation that drives arbitrarily applicable relational responding. Together these theories address early language development and children's incidental learning of names. We present broad similarities between the two approaches in the types of functional analyses they generate and discuss areas for future research.
Morphology and glandular composition of the myzorhynchus and the remnant apical organ in adult cestodes of the order Rhinebothriidea from batoids off Argentina
Authors: Franzese Sebastián , Mutti Leonardo D. , Battista Ariadna G. , Ivanov Verónica A.
Published: February 2023

The main objective of this study was to analyze the function of the myzorhynchus and remnant apical organ of adult cestodes in the order Rhinebothriidea. Several features of these structures were analyzed in 12 species belonging to six genera and two families. In particular, the glandular composition of the myzorhynchus of four species from Echeneibothriidae (i.e., Notomegarhynchus navonae and three species of Echeneibothrium) was studied using histochemical techniques and/or transmission electron microscopy. In addition, the presence of a remnant apical organ and its glandular composition were analized in six species of Rhinebothriidae and in two species of Semiorbiseptum, whose familial assignment is uncertain. We also evaluated the importance of these characters for diagnosis. The same type of gland cell was found in the myzorhynchus of Echeneibothrium species and in the remnant apical organ of Semiorbiseptum species. These gland cells were Coomassie brilliant blue‐positive, periodic acid Schiff‐positive and Alcian blue‐negative, consistent with a glycoprotein secretion possibly involved in adhesion to the host mucosa and proteolysis. The type of gland cells found in the myzorhynchus of N. navonae were Coomassie brilliant blue‐negative, periodic acid Schiff‐positive and Alcian blue‐positive, consistent with the production of adhesive and protective substances. The type of gland cells in the myzorhynchus and in the remnant apical organ could be a useful character for the generic diagnosis of Echeneibothrium and Semiorbiseptum, respectively. A remnant apical organ was only found in Semiorbiseptum, with its presence/absence being important as a diagnostic character at the generic level for Semiorbiseptum, Scalithrium, and Rhinebothroides. A secondary objective was to characterize the microthrix pattern of the myzorhynchus of N. navonae. An extended distribution of spinitriches was detected, which may allow a better adhesion of this large species to the host mucosa, as the main function of spinitriches is presumably that of adhesion.
Gilteritinib: Repurposing of AXL‐targeting kinase inhibitors against COVID‐19
Authors: Chen Yisa , Xue Yiying , Yang Jing
Published: February 2023

The coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19) is an ongoing infection outbreak caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), a novel positive single‐stranded, enveloped RNA virus belonging to the genus Betacoronavirus. During the pandemic, the SARS‐CoV‐2 subvariants evolved rapidly with enhanced transmissibility, and became a global public health threat as its alarmingly rising rate of infection led to excessive mortality. According to the WHO data, COVID‐19 caused more than 6 million deaths and affected 215 countries. Although vaccines are beneficial for preventing hospitalization, reducing severe illness and deaths from COVID‐19, the constantly mutated Spike protein under high selection pressure leading to off‐target or immune evasion which warrants additional therapeutic strategies. Therefore, it is important to identify and test potential therapeutic targets against proteins that are highly conserved among multiple coronaviruses for clinical drug development to combat SARS‐COV‐2. While research for new therapies continues, the cost‐effective and rapid repurposing of existing therapeutics may provide a viable treatment alternative for COVID‐19.
Survival rates of band‐tailed pigeons estimated using passive integrated transponder tags
Authors: Collins Daniel P. , Zimmerman Guthrie S. , Carleton Scott A. , Kendall William L. , Coxen Christopher L.
Published: February 2023

Obtaining survival estimates on the Interior population of band‐tailed pigeons (Patagioenas fasciata) is challenging because they are trap shy, but the joint use of passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags and bands is a potential solution. We investigated the use of PIT tags to passively recapture band‐tailed pigeon at 3 locations in New Mexico, USA, to estimate survival. From 2013–2015, we captured, banded, and marked >600 individual band‐tailed pigeons with PIT tags. To estimate annual survival rates, we used a Barker multi‐state joint live and dead encounters and resighting model. Survival models excluding transience had survival estimates across site, sex, and year of 0.86 (95% CI = 0.84–0.88) for after hatch year birds and 0.63 (95% CI = 0.48–0.76) for hatch year birds. These results are consistent with other survival estimates reported for the Interior population of band‐tailed pigeons using band return data and potentially provide an effective alternative method of monitoring survival of this population.
Management of Recurrent Fibromatosis Colli with Innervated Vastus Lateralis Free Flap
Authors: Kulich Marta , Gomez Gabriel , Kwon Daniel
Published: February 2023

Fibromatosis colli (FC) is a fibroblastic contracture of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, often presenting as a neck mass and torticollis. The vast majority of cases resolve with conservative measures; for persistent disease, surgical tenotomy is offered. This is a case of a 4‐year‐old patient with large FC who failed conservative treatment as well as surgical release and ultimately underwent complete excision and reconstruction with innervated vastus lateralis free flap. We describe a novel application of this free flap for a difficult clinical scenario. Laryngoscope, 133:2025–2028, 2023
Mussel Inspired In Situ Preparation of Antibacterial Silver Nanoparticles by DOPA‐Containing Silk Fibroin
Authors: Wu Yuting , Chen Chan , Tang Weikang , Liu Wenbin
Published: February 2023

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) attract a great deal of attention for potent antibacterial capacity, but their use is challenged by limited stability. Inspired by the adhesive and redox properties of the mussel foot proteins containing L‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA), a facile strategy for in situ synthesis of AgNPs using DOPA‐containing fibroin is developed. Tyrosine residues in fibroin are transformed into DOPA via biomimetic synthesis method with content of 0.55 mol%. In situ synthesis generates stable and small AgNPs through DOPA bound in fibroin as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Narrow size distribution with average diameter of 20 nm and excellent monodispersity are obtained. Cross‐linking with lysine increases the content of β‐sheet to form hydrogel and achieves gradual release of silver. The material exhibits excellent antibacterial properties against Gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram‐negative Escherichia coli bacteria. It can be potentially applied in biological and medical fields to treat bacterial infections.
Advances in Mechanical Properties of Hydrogels for Cartilage Tissue Defect Repair
Authors: Wang Wenguang , Shi Yanbin , Lin Guimei , Tang Bingtao , Li Xuelin , Zhang Jing , Ding Xinbing , Zhou Guangzhen
Published: February 2023

Numerous factors, such as degeneration and accidents, frequently cause cartilage deterioration. Owing to the absence of blood vessels and nerves in cartilage tissue, the ability of cartilage tissue to heal itself after an injury is relatively low. Hydrogels are beneficial for cartilage tissue engineering owing to their cartilage‐like structure and advantageous properties. Due to the disruption of its mechanical structure, the bearing capacity and shock absorption of cartilage are diminished. The tissue should possess excellent mechanical properties to ensure the efficacy of cartilage tissue repair. This paper discusses the application of hydrogels in the fields of cartilage repair, the mechanical properties of hydrogels used for cartilage repair, and the materials used for hydrogels in cartilage tissue engineering. In addition, the challenges faced by hydrogels and future research directions are discussed.
Bio‐Macromolecular Surface Coatings for Autohesive, Transparent, Elastomeric Foils
Authors: Bauer Maria G. , Lieleg Oliver
Published: February 2023

Thin materials made from elastomeric polymers such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polyurethane (PU) can be both, compliant and resilient. Their mechanical robustness and flexibility will make them great candidates for applications in the human body where space is limited and repeated deformations occur. Nonetheless, current medical applications of elastomeric foil‐like products are mainly restricted to inflatable balloon parts of stents or intubation tubes. Here, a key limiting factor is the autohesive behavior of those foils, that is, their propensity to stick to themselves. This property impedes handling and processing and can also interfere with the designated tasks of such foils. To mitigate this undesired behavior, different bio‐macromolecular coatings are applied here and assess their influence on the autohesive behavior, flexibility, and transparency of the materials. A non‐covalent, dopamine‐assisted coating approach is compared to a covalent coating strategy employing carbodiimide chemistry and investigated both, anionic and cationic macromolecules as top layers. The results show that especially the carbodiimide‐mediated mucin coating can efficiently suppress the autohesive behavior of the foils while maintaining the flexibility and transparency of the material. Thus, such coatings can not only broaden the medical application range of foil‐based elastomeric devices but may also prove beneficial for applications in soft robotics.
Branes on the singular locus of the Hitchin system via Borel and other parabolic subgroups
Authors: Franco Emilio , Peón‐Nieto Ana
Published: February 2023

We study the mirror symmetry on the singular locus of the Hitchin system at two levels. First, by covering it by (supports of) (BBB)‐branes, corresponding to Higgs bundles reducing their structure group to the Levi subgroup of some parabolic subgroup P, whose conjectural dual (BAA)‐branes we describe. Heuristically speaking, the latter are given by Higgs bundles reducing their structure group to the unipotent radical of P. Second, when P is a Borel subgroup, we are able to construct a family of hyperholomorphic bundles on the (BBB)‐brane and study the variation of the dual under this choice. We give evidence of both families of branes being dual under mirror symmetry via an integral functor induced by Fourier–Mukai in the moduli stack of Higgs bundles.
PDZ‐binding kinase aggravates pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasm progression by activating the AKT/mTOR pathway
Authors: Feng Tingting , Jiang Ruibin , Yin Lu , Xu Chenyang , Ma Jian , Yin Wenjuan , Jin Jiaoyue , Lu Tingting , Liu Xinyuan , Lyu Yingqi , Yang Ying , Ying Lisha , Hu Qichao , Su Dan , Ling Sunbin
Published: February 2023

The therapeutic effects of existing drug regimens against pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (pNENs) remain limited, and identifying ideal therapeutic targets is warranted. PDZ binding kinase (PBK) may play an oncogenic role in most solid tumors. However, its function in pNEN remains unclear. In this study, pNEN samples and International Cancer Genome Consortium data were used to determine the clinical significance of PBK. Cell counting and CCK8 assays were used to assess cell proliferation. Flow cytometry was used to assess drug‐induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. An in vivo PBK‐targeting experiment was performed in mice bearing pNENs. Western blotting, quantitative PCR, and immunohistochemistry were performed to assess the molecular mechanisms. PBK was significantly upregulated in pNEN tissues compared with paracancerous tissues. Additionally, PBK was a poor prognostic factor for pNEN patients. PBK was found to promote the proliferation of pNEN cells by activating the AKT/mTOR pathway. Furthermore, PBK inhibition combined with everolimus treatment had enhanced antitumour effects on pNEN via inhibiting AKT/mTOR pathway and inducing G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest. This study highlights that PBK plays an oncogenic role in and is a promising therapeutic target for pNEN.
Factors that affect levels of alexithymia, empathy and communication skills of nursing students in northern Iran
Authors: Sharafkhani Rahim , Nukpezah Ruth Nimota , Lathabhavan Remya , Kallmen Hakan , Fournier Andrew , Hosseini Marznaki Zohreh
Published: February 2023

Aim

The inability of nurses to express their own emotions, understand others' emotions and show empathy could result in communication gaps that could affect patient care outcomes. This study investigates the factors associated with the levels of alexithymia, empathy and communication skills among nursing students.

Design

A survey was conducted among 365 nursing students, and data were collected using an online questionnaire.

Methods

Data analyses were done using SPSS software version 22.

Results

There was a significant positive association between age and empathy and a negative association between the number of times a nurse took the entrance exam. The level of education and interest in nursing correlate with communication skills. All the predictor variables of alexithymia in this current study were not significant. Emphasis should be placed on improving nursing students' empathy and communication skills. Student nurses should be taught how to recognize and express their emotions. To assess their mental health, they must be screened regularly.
Optimization of interfacial bonding properties between thermoplastic liners and carbon fiber‐reinforced composites by atmospheric‐pressure plasma and failure mechanism study
Authors: Qi Liangliang , Min Wei , Gao Ruize , Li Zhiqi , Yu Muhuo , Sun Zeyu
Published: February 2023

Weak interfacial bonding properties between thermoplastic liners and carbon fiber‐reinforced composites (CFRP) can easily lead to debonding failure, which is a major challenge in development of type IV composite hydrogen storage vessels. We optimized Box–Behnken design atmospheric‐pressure plasma process parameters for maximizing interfacial bonding properties between thermoplastic liner (PA11 liner) and CFRP using Design‐Expert software. From various designs, plasma process parameters, including time (t), nozzle‐to‐specimen distance (d) and gas flow rate (r) of treatment were selected for optimization to assess the effects of their interactions on climbing drum peel (CDP), flatwise tensile (FWT) and asymmetric double cantilever beams (ADCB). The CDP strength, FWT strength and strain energy release rate (GADCB) of untreated samples were 4.2 N·mm/mm, 0.26 MPa and 87.2 J/m2, respectively. After the plasma treatment, optimum process parameters of t = 200 s, d = 12.5 mm, and r = 700 L/h were used to achieve 33.8 N·mm/mm, 2.97 MPa and 1008.4 J/m2, respectively, which were 8.0, 11.4 and 11.6 times that of untreated PA11 surface, respectively. This method has the potential for guiding thermoplastic liner surface treatment of type IV hydrogen storage vessels before winding.
Study of novel androgen receptor V770 variant in androgen insensitivity syndrome patients reveals the transitional state of the androgen receptor ligand binding domain homodimer
Authors: Helsen Christine , Rocca Maria Santa , Nguyen Tien T. , Eerlings Roy , Lee Xiao Yin , De Block Sofie , Vinanzi Cinzia , Di Millo Francesco , Giagulli Vito , Voet Arnout , Ferlin Alberto , Claessens Frank
Published: February 2023

We report the discovery of the androgen receptor missense mutation V770D, that was found in two sisters suffering from complete androgen insensitivity. Experimental validation of AR V770 variants demonstrated that AR V770D was transcriptionally inactive due to the inability to dimerize and a reduced ligand binding affinity. The more conservative AR V770A variant showed a dimerization defect at low levels of DHT with a partial recovery of the transcriptional activity and of the receptor's ability to dimerize when increasing the DHT levels. With V770 located outside of the proposed LBD dimerization interface of the AR LBD homodimer crystal structure, the effects of the V770A mutation on AR dimerization were unexpected. We therefore explored whether the AR LBD dimerization interface would be better described by an alternative dimerization mode based on available human homodimeric LBD crystal structures of other nuclear receptors. Superposition of the monomeric AR LBD in the homodimeric crystal structures of GR, PR, ER, CAR, TRβ, and HNF‐4α showed that the GR‐like LBD dimer model was energetically the most stable. Moreover, V770 was a key energy residue in the GR‐like LBD dimer while it was not involved in the stabilization of the AR LBD homodimer according to the crystal structure. Additionally, the observation that 4 AIS mutations impacted the stability of the AR LBD dimer while 16 mutations affected the GR‐like LBD dimer, suggested that the AR LBD dimer crystal is a snapshot of a breathing AR LBD homodimer that can transition into the GR‐like LBD dimer model.
IEDB‐3D 2.0: Structural data analysis within the Immune Epitope Database
Authors: Mendes Marcus , Mahita Jarjapu , Blazeska Nina , Greenbaum Jason , Ha Brendan , Wheeler Kelly , Wang Jiyao , Shackelford Deborah , Sette Alessandro , Peters Bjoern
Published: February 2023

The Immune Epitope Database (IEDB) catalogs T cell, B cell, and major histocompatibility complex ligand information in the context of infectious disease, allergy, autoimmunity, and transplantation. An important component of this information is three‐dimensional structural data on T cell receptors, antibodies, and pairwise residue interactions between immune receptors and antigens, which we refer to as IEDB‐3D. Such data is highly valuable for mechanically understanding receptor:ligand interactions. Here, we present IEDB‐3D 2.0, which comprises a complete overhaul of how we obtain and present 3D structural data. A new 3D viewer experience that utilizes iCn3D has been implemented to replace outdated java‐based technology. In addition, we have designed a new epitope mapping system that matches each epitope available in the IEDB with its antigen structural data. Finally, immunogenicity data retrieved from the IEDB's ImmunomeBrowser can now be used to highlight immunogenic regions of an antigen directly in iCn3D. Overall, the IEDB‐3D 2.0 provides an updated tool platform to visualize epitope data cataloged in the IEDB.
Effects of wild, local, and cultivated tobacco varieties on the performance of Spodoptera litura and its parasitoid Meteorus pulchricornis
Authors: Li Xiaohong , Shi Yimeng , Lin XuanXuan , Li Zhezhi , Xiao Jiawei , Yang Xianjun
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Plant domestication can alter plant and insect interactions and influence bottom‐up and top‐down effects. However, little is known about the effects of wild, local, and cultivated varieties of the same plant species in the same region on herbivores and their parasitoids. Here, six tobacco varieties were selected: wild Bishan and Badan tobaccos, local Liangqiao and Shuangguan sun‐cured tobaccos, and cultivated Xiangyan 5 and Cunsanpi. We examined how wild, local, and cultivated tobacco types affect the tobacco cutworm herbivore Spodoptera litura and its parasitoid Meteorus pulchricornis.

RESULTS

Levels of nicotine and trypsin protease inhibitor in leaves and the fitness of S. litura larvae varied significantly among the varieties. Wild tobacco had the highest levels of nicotine and trypsin protease inhibitor, which reduced the survival rate and prolonged the development period of S. litura. The tobacco types significantly influenced the life history parameters and host selection of M. pulchricornis. The cocoon weight, cocoon emergence rate, adult longevity, hind tibia length, and offspring fecundity of M. pulchricornis increased, whereas the development period decreased from wild to local to cultivated varieties. The parasitoids were more likely to select wild and local varieties than cultivated varieties.

CONCLUSION

Domestication of tobacco resulted in reduced resistance to S. litura in cultivated tobacco. Wild tobacco varieties suppress S. litura populations, adversely affect M. pulchricornis, and may enhance bottom‐up and top‐down control of S. litura. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.