bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and structural characterization of nano‐sized metal complexes of 3‐(1‐methyl‐4‐hydroxy‐2‐oxo‐1,2‐dihydroquinolin‐3‐yl)‐2‐nitro‐3‐oxopropanoic acid. XRD, thermal, 3D modeling, and antitumor activity studies
Authors: El‐ghamry Mosad A. , El‐Shafiy H.F.
Published: February 2021

New Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Fe(III) complexes of the ligand 3‐(1‐methyl‐4‐hydroxy‐2‐oxo‐1,2‐dihydroquinolin‐3‐yl)‐2‐nitro‐3‐oxopropanoic acid (H3L) were synthesized and characterized by various analytical and spectroscopic techniques. The obtained data confirmed the formation of 1:1 (M:L) stoichiometry for Fe(III), Co(II) complexes and 2:1 (M:L) stoichiometry for Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) complexes, and the ligand, H3L, acts as mono‐, bi‐, tribasic bis‐, tris‐ and tetradentate towards the metal ions via the oxygen of quinolinonate, the enolic/ketonic of β‐ketoacid, and carboxylate besides of the nitro groups. All complexes showed tetrahedral geometry, except Fe(III) complex which exhibited an octahedral geometry. The X‐ray diffractograms of the ligand, H3L, and its metal complexes revealed a series of sharp and intense diffraction peaks which indicate their crystalline characteristic with the particle size in the nano‐scale range. Geometrical optimizations of the ligand, H3L, and its metal complexes were performed at the B3LYP/6‐311G(d, p) level using density functional theory (DFT) implemented in the Gaussian 09 program. The data obtained were correlated with the experimental results and suggested that the Zn(II) complex may exhibit extremely bio‐efficiency than other compounds. The antimicrobial screening results showed enhancement in the efficiency of the free ligand, H3L, on coordination with the metal ions. The antitumor activity was evaluated in vitro against Hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG‐2 cells). The ligand, H3L, and its Zn(II) complex showed strong antitumor activities, especially nano‐sized Zn(II) complex that exhibited IC50 value (2.90 μg/ml) smaller than the well‐known standard antitumor drug cis‐platin (IC50 ~ 3.27 μg/ml), prominent it as an antitumor agent towards HepG‐2 cells.
Effect of coating structure of granulated quasi‐fuel particles in iron ore sintering
Authors: Lai Zhenya , Lv Laiquan , Meng Hanxiao , Zhou Mingxi , Ma Pengnan , Cen Kefa , Zhou Hao
Published: February 2021

To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, biomass fuels are used to gradually replace fossil fuels in the sintering process. Unfortunately, the sinter quality will deteriorate sharply due to too fast combustion rate when using biomass fuels. To address this problem, pregranulation proved to be an effective method. In this study, the pilot‐scale sinter pot tests were carried out to study the effect of coating structure of granulated quasi‐fuel particles on the granulation properties, flame front propagation in sintering, sinter indexes, sinter mineralogy, and pore structure. The experimental results show that when substituting coke with biomass char, the average size of the granules decreased whereas bed voidage increased due to the irregular shape and lower apparent density of granules. Pregranulation can reduce the flame front speed and increase the maximum bed temperature, thereby alleviating the deterioration of sinter quality and sinter yield. By pregranulating biomass char and 2% magnetite concentrate, the tumbler strength, sinter yield, and productivity can be increased from 44.9% to 55.0%, from 41.9% to 49.3%, and from 28.54 to 31.10 t/m2/d, respectively. The microscopic observation results show that substituting coke with biomass char for sintering decreased the content of calcium ferrite in sinter and increased sinter porosity. On the contrary, pregranulating increased calcium ferrite content in sinter and decreased sinter porosity, and thus sinter quality was improved.
Matching micro‐ and nano‐boron nitride hybrid fillers for high‐thermal conductive composites
Authors: Cai Xinzhi , Liu Yuqiao , Yang Tiantian , Dong Xuanzuo , Zhang Xinru , Jiang Zeyi , Chou Aihui , Gao Ting , Zhang Xinxin
Published: February 2021

Incorporating hybrid fillers into polymer has been considered as one of the effective ways to obtain composites with high‐thermal conductivities (TCs). Herein, we fabricated polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites by using micro‐boron nitride nanosheets (mBNNs) and nano‐BNNs (nBNNs) as fillers, and studied the optimum ratios of mBNNs to nBNNs (i.e., mBNNs:nBNNs) for obtaining high‐thermal conductive composites at different filler's contents. The results indicated that for the composites with total BNNs contents of 10, 20, and 30 wt%, the optimum mBNNs:nBNNs for obtaining the highest TC were 9:1, 9:1, and 5:5, respectively. The highest TC of the composites with 30 wt% BNNs could reach 1.46 W·m−1·K−1, which was 356% higher than that of PTFE. The reasons for optimum mBNNs:nBNNs values were interpreted by observing the composite's microstructures. Moreover, the fabricated composites also exhibited excellent electrical insulation properties. This study has important implications for obtaining high‐thermal conductive composites using hybrid fillers.
The dissipation of toroidal magnetic fields and spin‐down evolution of young and strongly magnetized pulsars
Authors: Gao Zhi Fu , Shan Hao , Wang Hui
Published: February 2021

Magnetars are a kind of pulsars powered mainly by superhigh magnetic fields. They are popular sources with many unsolved issues in themselves but are also linked to various high‐energy phenomena, such as quasi periodic oscillations (QPOs), giant flares, fast radio bursts, and superluminous supernovae. In this work, we first review our recent works on the dissipation of toroidal magnetic fields in magnetars and rotationally powered pulsars and then review the spin‐down evolution of young and strongly magnetized pulsars, especially of magnetars. We present an interesting and important relation between the magnetization parameter and magnetic field in the magnetar crust. Finally, we introduce our two works in progress: to explain the magnetar “antiglitch” events in the thermal plastic flow model and to revisit the expression of braking index n, which is independent of the second derivative of spin frequency of a pulsar, and give some proposals for our future work.
Autism: Screening of inborn errors of metabolism and unexpected results
Authors: İnci Aslı , Özaslan Ahmet , Okur İlyas , Biberoğlu Gürsel , Güney Esra , Ezgü Fatih Süheyl , Tümer Leyla , İşeri Elvan
Published: February 2021

In this study, the aim was to examine patients with inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) who presented with only autism, without any other findings, to suggest any other neurological and genetic disorders. To investigate IEM, data of the hospital records of 247 patients who were referred from pediatric psychiatric to pediatric metabolism outpatient clinics due to further evaluation of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) were examined. Among them, 237 patients were evaluated for IEM leading to ASDs. Organic acidemias, phenylketonuria, tetrahydrobiopterin and neutrotransmitter disorders, biotinidase deficiency, Smith–Lemni–Opitz syndrome, disorders of cerebral creatine metabolism, urea cycle defects, homocystinuria, purine‐pyrimidine metabolism disorders, mitochondrial disorders, cerebrotendinous xantomatosis, mucopolysaccaridosis, and glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency were screened with complete blood counts, complete biochemical analyses, homocysteine levels, an arterial blood gase, and metabolic investigations. Six patients were diagnosed as follows: one with phenylketonuria (PKU), one with cerebral creatine deficiency, one with hypobetalipoproteinemia, one with glycogen storage disease type IX‐a, one with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency, and one with succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (SSADHD). Forty‐six patients screened for IEM were from consanguineous families, among them, one was diagnosed with FKU and the other was with SSADHD. It would not be expected to find PKU in a 5‐year‐old patient as a result of newborn screening, but she could not been screened due to being a refugee. The diagnosed diseases were rare presentations of the diseases and furthermore, the diagnosis of hypobetalipoproteinemia and glycogen storage disease type IX‐a were surprising with the only presentation of ASDs.

Lay Summary

It is well‐known that some types of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) may present with that of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). This study suggests that in countries where consanguinity marriages are common such as Turkey and refugees whose escaped from neonatal screening are present, patients with ASD should be screened for IEMs. The results can surprise the physicians with a very rare cause of autism that has never been thought. Autism Res 2021, 14: 887–896. © 2021 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Crystalline Co2V3O8@Amorphous Co−B Core‐Shell Nano‐Microsphere: Tunable Shell Layer Thickness, Faradaic Pseudocapacitive Mechanism, and Electrochemical Capacitor Applications
Authors: Hou Jing‐Feng , Gao Jian‐Fei , Kong Ling‐Bin
Published: February 2021

The interface engineering of highly efficient electrode materials is of dominant importance for enhancing the electrochemical performance of advanced energy storage devices. Here, we demonstrate the construction of a novel crystalline@amorphous core‐shell nanostructured with Co3V2O8 spherical particles as the cores and Co−B nanoflakes as the shells. The Co−B shell layer thickness could be tuned by changing the mass ratio of Co3V2O8 and B source. This unique structure shows intriguing synergistic properties with increased electroactive sites and also provides effective space and a short diffusion distance for faradaic reactions. The tunable amorphous layer facilitates the electrolyte diffusion while showing elastic behavior to alleviate the volume strain of Co3V2O8, and also provides a path for electron transport. The resulting Co3V2O8@Co−B under optimum conditions exhibits a high specific capacitance, remarkable rate performance, and outstanding cycling stability. Such an effective redox approach may shed substantial light on inspiring crystalline/amorphous contacts and their derivatives for energy storage and conversion devices.
Changes in Brazilian education policy and the rise of right‐wing populism
Authors: Alves Mário A. , Segatto Catarina I. , Pineda Andrea M.
Published: February 2021

This article shows the intersections of right‐wing conservative discourse and evangelical religious proselytism in shaping right‐wing populist discourse in Brazil and its implications on the education policy in the last decade. Since re‐democratisation in the 1980s, the policy path sought to guarantee progressive and inclusive public education, which became under threat due to the escalation of right‐wing populist activism. In the last few years, the ‘No Party School Movement’ (NPSM) and the ‘Evangelical Parliamentary Front’ (EPF) established a tactical alliance. Affiliated members have been trying to pass various bills in different states and cities, stating that educators should not rely on ideological, political and partisan views, and should respect the ‘traditional values’ of families. Othering was a fundamental articulating mechanism of right‐wing populist movements and politicians’ actions to forge a discourse that attacks Paulo Freire’s pedagogy, gender ideology and ancestral African religions. Through the analysis of different types of data, this interpretative case study deepens our understanding of the importance of right‐wing discourse in forging influential political alliances influencing education public policy in Brazil. Understanding how right‐wing populist activism creates enemies through othering educators, women, LGBT and black people is essential to analyse its influence on recent policy changes.
Males can adjust offspring sex ratio in an adaptive fashion through different mechanisms
Authors: Douhard Mathieu , Geffroy Benjamin
Published: February 2021

Sex allocation research has primarily focused on offspring sex‐ratio adjustment by mothers. Yet, fathers also benefit from producing more of the sex with greater fitness returns. Here, we review the state‐of‐the art in the study of male‐driven sex allocation and, counter to the current paradigm, we propose that males can adaptively influence offspring sex ratio through a wide variety of mechanisms. This includes differential production and motility of X‐ versus Y‐bearing sperms in mammals, variation in seminal fluid composition in haplo‐diploid invertebrates, and epigenetic mechanisms in some fish and lizards exhibiting environmental sex determination. Conflicts of interest between mothers and fathers over offspring sex ratios can emerge, although many more studies are needed in this area. While many studies of sex allocation have focused on adaptive explanations with little attention to mechanisms, and vice versa, the integration of these two topics is essential for understanding male‐driven sex allocation.
Addressing the feasibility of the teacher performance rate and accuracy scale as a treatment integrity tool
Authors: Hranchuk Kieva S. , Williams Michael J.
Published: February 2021

We implemented a delayed multiple probe across participants design to analyze the effects of behavioral skills training (BST) on teaching assistants' effective delivery of instruction as measured through their performance on the Teacher Performance Rate and Accuracy (TPRA) scale. Effective instruction is defined as instruction that is both accurate and fluent. Three adult teaching assistants, newly hired at a kindergarten readiness program that employed the principles of applied behavior analysis, were selected to participate. The participants had no previous experience implementing three‐term contingency trials. Dependent variables included two components of the TPRA scale measured pre‐ and post‐intervention: (1) percent of correctly delivered trials and (2) rate of trial delivery. The results indicated that BST increased the accurate delivery of correct three‐term contingency trials by teaching assistants as measured through TPRA scale observations. The intervention also successfully increased the teaching assistants' rate of trials delivered per minute.
Dissipation, adsorption–desorption, and potential transformation products of pinoxaden in soil
Authors: Chen Dan , Liu Zhengyi , Han Jiahua , Chen Ye , Zhang Kankan , Hu Deyu
Published: February 2021

This study established and validated a simple and sensitive analytical approach for determining pinoxaden residues in soil. The dissipation and adsorption–desorption of pinoxaden in four kinds of Chinese soil were comprehensively investigated for the first time, and the possible metabolic products and pathways were identified. The developed method was successfully applied in dissipation and adsorption–desorption trials. Several influential factors, including temperature, organic matter, and moisture content, affected the dissipation rate of pinoxaden in soil. During the dissipation process, 1 hydrolytic intermediate and 13 possible transformation products were identified, and predicted metabolic pathways were composed of electron rearrangement, oxidation, cyclization, carboxylation, and so on. Both the adsorption and desorption isotherms of pinoxaden in four kinds of Chinese soil followed the Freundlich equation, and the Freundlich Kf values were positively correlated with the soil cation exchange capacity. According to the calculated Gibbs free energies, the adsorption of pinoxaden was an endothermic reaction and mainly a physical process. These results could provide some useful data for the determination of pinoxaden in other matrices and the evaluation of the environmental fate of pinoxaden in soil and other ecosystems.
Prenatal stress induced depressive‐like behavior and region dependently high CRP level in offspring rats
Authors: Li Shaoning , Zhang Huifang , Gao Xueyun , Huang Huimei , He Wei , Zhang Huiping , Sun Hongli
Published: February 2021

Introduction

To explore the changes in C‐reactive protein (CRP) level in different regions of one old offspring rats exposed to prenatal stress (PS).

Methods

The rat model was constructed with prenatal restraint stress on pregnant dams on days 14–20 of gestation. Offspring rats were randomly divided into PS susceptibility (PS‐S) group and control (CON) group. Behavioral experiments including sucrose preference test (SPT), open‐field test (OFT), and forced swimming test (FST) were used to measure depressive‐like behaviors. Immunohistochemistry, qRT‐PCR, and Western blotting were applied to detect the changes in CRP level.

Results

The results showed that PS could cause depressive‐like behaviors in all SPT, OFT, and FST. Concomitantly, CRP mRNA and protein expression significantly increased in hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and hypothalamus in the PS‐S group when compared that in the CON group, while no significantly changes in liver, heart, olfactory bulb, striatum, and cerebellum in the PS‐S group when compared that in the CON group.

Conclusion

Increasing of CRP expression in hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and hypothalamus may play a critical role in the mechanism under depressive‐like behavior in offspring rats exposed to PS.
Sustainability among Norwegian maritime firms: Green strategy and innovation as mediators of long‐term orientation and emission reduction
Authors: Saether Erik Andreas , Eide Ann Elida , Bjørgum Øyvind
Published: February 2021

This study investigates the relationships between emission reduction, long‐term orientation, green strategy, and green innovation among maritime vessel‐owning firms of various sizes in the Norwegian maritime sector. A change from the utilization of fossil fuels and move toward more sustainable sources of energy demand substantial financial investments and behavioral changes but are fundamental to preventing further climate change. This study examines the greening of the Norwegian fleet through a structural equation model based upon 246 survey responses. Although our model does not show a significant direct relationship between long‐term orientation and emission reductions, we do find that long‐term orientation is indirectly related to emission reductions because of its relationships with green strategy and green innovation. Moreover, as mediators, green innovation and green strategy share direct associations with firms' reductions of greenhouse gases and environmentally harmful emissions. Implications for practitioners and policy makers are proposed.
Esophageal cancer: trends in incidence and mortality in China from 2005 to 2015
Authors: He Feifan , Wang Junyi , Liu Li , Qin Xiaoyue , Wan Zhanyong , Li Wei , Ping Zhiguang
Published: February 2021

Background

The long‐term trend analysis of esophageal cancer is rarely reported in China. Our purpose is to analyze the incidence and mortality trends of esophageal cancer in China from 2005 to 2015.

Method

Based on the data in the annual report of the China Cancer Registry, a comprehensive analysis of esophageal cancer cases and deaths from 2005 to 2015 was carried out. The incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer are stratified by gender and region (urban or rural). Long‐term trend analysis was conducted using Joinpoint regression model.

Result

In China, the age‐standardized incidence rates by the world population declined from 13.84/105 in 2005 to 11.64/105 in 2015. Annual percent changes were 3.4% (95% CI: 0.6%, 6.3%) in the period 2005‐2011, −7.4% (95% CI: −10.1%, −4.7%) in the period 2011‐2015, respectively. The age‐standardized mortality rates declined from 10.86/105 in 2005 to 8.57/105 in 2015. And the average annual percent change was −4.1% (95% CI: −6.7%, −1.5%). The incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer in men are higher than those in women, and the incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer in rural areas are much higher than those in urban areas.

Conclusion

In China, the incidence of esophageal cancer first increased and then decreased during 2005‐2015, while the mortality rate has been declining.
Association between sex hormones regulation‐related SNP rs12233719 and lung cancer risk among never‐smoking Chinese women
Authors: Qian Ying , Xie Li , Li Lei , Feng Tienan , Zhu Tengteng , Wang Ruoyang , Yang Yuqing , Zhou Baosen , Yu Herbert , Qian Biyun
Published: February 2021

Background

The mechanism of rapidly increased non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) among never‐smoking Chinese women has not been elucidated. Ovarian sex steroid hormones have been suggested to counteract lung cancer development, and sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) is essential in sex hormones regulation. This study aims to exploring single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genomic regions associated with SHBG concentrations that contributed to never‐smoking female NSCLC.

Methods

Candidate genes were selected by a genome‐wide association (GWAS) meta‐analysis and gene expression profiles of never‐smoking NSCLC of Chinese women. The candidate SNPs limited to common minor allele frequency (MAF), missense variant, ethnic heterogeneous distribution, and SNPs were genotyped using the TaqMan method. A two‐stage case‐control design was adopted for exploration and validation of associations between candidate SNPs and risk of NSCLC. All participants were never‐smoking Chinese women. Chi‐square test and multivariate logistic regression were applied.

Results

Beginning with 12 genomic regions associated with circulating SHBG concentrations and gene expression profiles from never‐smoking NSCLC in Chinese women, candidate SNP rs12233719 and rs7439366 both located in candidate gene UGT2B7, which may be related to circulating SHBG concentrations and cancer risk, were identified. A two‐stage case‐control study was conducted in Shenyang and Tianjin represented as the training stage and validation stage, respectively. Under the dominant model, compared to individuals with the wild G/G genotype, the adjusted OR of those with the T allele was 1.58 (95% CI: 1.15–2.16) in Chinese Shenyang training set, and was 1.49 (95% CI: 1.02–2.18) in Chinese Tianjin validation set, both accompanied with a significant trend relationship consistently. UGT2B7 was upregulated in female NSCLC patients’ tumor tissues and was associated with a poor prognosis in NSCLC.

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that a sex hormones regulation‐related SNP rs12233719 was associated with never‐smoking female lung cancer risk, which might partially explain NSCLC‐susceptibility in Chinese women.
Compassionate goals, prosocial emotions, and prosocial behaviours during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Yue Zhiying , Yang Janet Z.
Published: February 2021

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, it is important for people to engage in prosocial behaviours to support one another. The aim of this research is to answer a key question: in a social crisis, what motivates Americans to help others? Guided by research on appraisal theories and ecosystem theory, we examined the role of compassionate goals and prosocial emotions in promoting prosocial behaviours towards either out‐group or in‐group members. Study 1 (N = 943) was conducted in February 2020, before the widespread transmission of COVID‐19 began in the United States. Results show that people with high compassionate goals are more likely to experience sympathy, which in turn makes them more willing to help people suffering from COVID‐19 in China. Study 2 (N = 1,009) was conducted with a nationally representative sample after COVID‐19 became more prevalent in the United States. Although people with high compassionate goals still experience more sympathy and solidarity, sympathy does not predict donation intention. Instead, solidarity mediates the relationship between compassionate goals and donation intention. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Simulation‐as‐a‐Service: Analyzing Crowd Movements in Virtual Environments
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Haworth Brandon , Faloutsos Petros , Kapadia Mubbasir
Published: February 2021

At present, environment designers mostly use their intuition and experience to predictively account for how environments might support dynamic activity. The majority of Computer‐Aided Design tools only provide a static representation of space which potentially ignores the impact that an environment layout produces on its occupants and their movements. To address this, computational techniques such as crowd simulation have been developed. With few exceptions, crowd simulation frameworks are often decoupled from environment modeling tools. They usually require specific hardware/software infrastructures and expertise to be used, hindering the designers' abilities to seamlessly simulate, analyze, and incorporate movement‐centric dynamics into their design workflows. To bridge this disconnect, we devise a cross‐browser service‐based simulation analytics platform to analyze environment layouts with respect to occupancy and activity. Our platform allows users to access simulation services by uploading three‐dimensional environment models in numerous common formats, devise targeted simulation scenarios, run simulations, and instantly generate crowd‐based analytics for their designs. We conducted a case study to showcase cross‐domain applicability of our service‐based platform, and a user study to evaluate the usability of this approach.
Bio‐Guided Investigation of Sideritis cypria Methanol Extract Driven by in Vitro Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Assays
Authors: Lytra Krystalia , Tomou Ekaterina‐Michaela , Chrysargyris Antonios , Christofi Maria‐Dolores , Miltiadous Panagiota , Tzortzakis Nikolaos , Skaltsa Helen
Published: February 2021

Sideritis cypria Post is an endemic and endangered species of Northern Cyprus. The overall aim of the present study was to evaluate the total phenolic content, the antioxidant, the cytotoxic and the antimicrobial activity of the methanol extract obtained from the aerial parts of cultivated S. cypria. A bio‐guided approach led to the isolation of 27 chemical compounds by using various analytical techniques. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The crude extract exerted strong antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP assays) which was attributed to its high total phenolic content. Furthermore, groups rich in phenolic content showed highest antioxidant property, whereas groups with phytosterols, diterpenoids and apigenin derivatives exerted cytotoxic effects in MDA‐MB231 cancer cell line by the MTT method. Moreover, the cytotoxic activity of four isolated apigenin derivatives was evaluated in the same cancer cells. The antimicrobial activity of the extract and groups were measured, demonstrating lack of activity. To the best of our knowledge, this survey is the first report on the biological activities of the methanol extract of S. cypria.
The epithelial–mesenchymal transition regulators Twist, Slug, and Snail are associated with aggressive tumour features and poor outcome in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Børretzen Astrid , Gravdal Karsten , Haukaas Svein A , Mannelqvist Monica , Beisland Christian , Akslen Lars A , Halvorsen Ole J
Published: February 2021

The prognostic importance of transcription factors promoting epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis has not been well explored in prostate cancer patients with long follow‐up, nor the interplay between these factors. The objective of this study was to assess the individual protein expression and co‐expression of Twist, Slug (Snai2), Snail (Snai1), and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 alpha (Hif‐1α) in prostate cancer in relation to EMT, angiogenesis, hypoxia, tumour features, disease recurrence, and patient survival. Immunohistochemical staining was performed on tissue microarray sections from 338 radical prostatectomies with long follow‐up. In addition, 41 cases of prostatic hyperplasia, 33 non‐skeletal metastases, 13 skeletal metastases, and 33 castration‐resistant prostate carcinomas were included. Our findings were validated in external gene expression data sets. Twist was overexpressed in primary prostate cancer and markedly reduced in distant metastases (p < 0.0005). Strong expression of Twist and Slug was associated with Hif‐1α in localised prostate cancer (p ≤ 0.001), and strong Twist was associated with Hif‐1α in castration‐resistant carcinomas (p = 0.044). Twist, Slug, and increased Snail at the tumour stromal border were associated with vascular factors (p ≤ 0.045). Each of the three EMT‐regulating transcription factors were associated with aggressive tumour features and shorter time to recurrence and cancer‐specific death. Notably, the co‐expression of factors demonstrated an enhanced influence on outcome. In the subgroup of E‐cadherinlow carcinomas, strong Slug was associated with shorter time to all end points and was an independent predictor of time to multiple end points, including cancer‐specific death (hazard ratio 3.0, p = 0.041). To conclude, we demonstrate an important relation between EMT, hypoxia, and angiogenesis and a strong link between the investigated EMT regulators and aggressive tumour features and poor patient outcome in prostate cancer. Despite the retrospective nature of this long‐term study, our findings could have a significant impact on the future treatment of prostate cancer, where tailored therapies might be directed simultaneously against epithelial–mesenchymal phenotypes, angiogenesis, and tumour hypoxia.
A distinct repertoire of cancer‐associated fibroblasts is enriched in cribriform prostate cancer
Authors: Hesterberg Amanda B , Rios Brenda L , Wolf Elysa M , Tubbs Colby , Wong Hong Yuen , Schaffer Kerry R , Lotan Tamara L , Giannico Giovanna A , Gordetsky Jennifer B , Hurley Paula J
Published: February 2021

Outcomes for men with localized prostate cancer vary widely, with some men effectively managed without treatment on active surveillance, while other men rapidly progress to metastatic disease despite curative‐intent therapies. One of the strongest prognostic indicators of outcome is grade groups based on the Gleason grading system. Gleason grade 4 prostate cancer with cribriform morphology is associated with adverse outcomes and can be utilized clinically to improve risk stratification. The underpinnings of disease aggressiveness associated with cribriform architecture are not fully understood. Most studies have focused on genetic and molecular alterations in cribriform tumor cells; however, less is known about the tumor microenvironment in cribriform prostate cancer. Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogeneous population of fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment that impact cancer aggressiveness. The overall goal of this study was to determine if cribriform prostate cancers are associated with a unique repertoire of CAFs. Radical prostatectomy whole‐tissue sections were analyzed for the expression of fibroblast markers (ASPN in combination with FAP, THY1, ENG, NT5E, TNC, and PDGFRβ) in stroma adjacent to benign glands and in Gleason grade 3, Gleason grade 4 cribriform, and Gleason grade 4 noncribriform prostate cancer by RNAscope®. Halo® Software was used to quantify percent positive stromal cells and expression per positive cell. The fibroblast subtypes enriched in prostate cancer were highly heterogeneous. Both overlapping and distinct populations of low abundant fibroblast subtypes in benign prostate stroma were enriched in Gleason grade 4 prostate cancer with cribriform morphology compared to Gleason grade 4 prostate cancer with noncribriform morphology and Gleason grade 3 prostate cancer. In addition, gene expression was distinctly altered in CAF subtypes adjacent to cribriform prostate cancer. Overall, these studies suggest that cribriform prostate cancer has a unique tumor microenvironment that may distinguish it from other Gleason grade 4 morphologies and lower Gleason grades.
Experiments with immobilized enzymes as a contribution to learning about green chemistry in chemistry classes
Authors: Linkwitz Michael , Eilks Ingo
Published: February 2021

Nachhaltigkeit in der Chemie manifestiert sich unter anderem im Konzept der Grünen Chemie. Ein Ansatz innerhalb der grünen Chemie ist effektive Katalyse, insbesondere enzymatische Katalyse unter milden Reaktionsbedingungen. Dieser Aufsatz legitimiert die intensivere Auseinandersetzung mit der enzymatischen Katalyse im Kontext der Grünen Chemie im Chemieunterricht der Sekundarstufe II. Es werden eine Reihe von Versuchen mit immobilisierten Enzymen für diesen Zusammenhang vorgeschlagen, die in verschiedenen Oberstufenkursen mehrfach erprobt wurden.
Virus‐Based Nanoreactors with GALT Activity for Classic Galactosemia Therapy
Authors: Gama Pedro , Cadena‐Nava Ruben D. , Juarez‐Moreno Karla , Pérez‐Robles Javier , Vazquez‐Duhalt Rafael
Published: February 2021

Enzymatic nanoreactors were obtained by galactose‐1‐phosphate uridylyl‐transferase (GALT) encapsulation into plant virus capsids by a molecular self‐assembly strategy. The aim of this work was to produce virus‐like nanoparticles containing GALT for an enzyme‐replacement therapy for classic galactosemia. The encapsulation efficiency and the catalytic constants of bio‐nanoreactors were determined by using different GALT and virus coat protein ratios. The substrate affinity of nanoreactors was slightly lower than that of the free enzyme; the activity rate was 16 % of the GALT free enzyme. The enzymatic nanoreactors without functionalization were internalized into different cell lines including fibroblast and kidney cells, but especially into hepatocytes. The enzymatic nanoreactors are an innovative enzyme preparation with potential use for the treatment of classic galactosemia.
The emergence of oral cavity cancer and the stabilization of oropharyngeal cancer: Recent contrasting epidemics in the South Korean population
Authors: Jung Yuh‐Seog , Seok Jungirl , Hong Seri , Ryu Chang Hwan , Ryu Junsun , Jung Kyu‐Won
Published: February 2021

Background

By analyzing the recent epidemiologic trajectory of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in South Korea, we tracked 2 findings that have been reported recently in other countries: the stabilization of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related HNSCC incidence and the acceleration of oral cavity cancer incidence.

Methods

We analyzed data from the comprehensive population‐based Korean Central Cancer Registry for the period 1999 to 2017. The age‐standardized incidence rate (ASR), annual percent change (APC), and relative survival were calculated.

Results

The ASR of total HNSCC decreased from 1999 to 2017 (APC, −0.2 [95% CI, −0.3 to −0.0]), as did the ASR of HPV‐unrelated HNSCC (APC, −0.6 [95% CI, −0.8 to −0.5]); however, the ASR of HPV‐related HNSCC increased (APC, 2.9 [95% CI, 2.5 to 3.2]). The rapidly increasing incidence of tonsil squamous cell carcinoma, which was the main subsite of HPV‐related HNSCC, stabilized after 2011 (APC pre‐2011, 6.8 [95% CI, 5.0 to 8.3]; APC post‐2011, 1.6 [95% CI, −2.1 to 5.5]), and the difference was significant (P = .017). In contrast, oral cavity cancer incidence demonstrated the only increase among HPV‐unrelated subsites, with the increase occurring after 2006 (APC pre‐2006, 1.6 [95% CI, 0.3 to 2.8]; APC post‐2006, 2.8 [95% CI, 2.2 to 3.5]); the main cause of this change was an increase in the ASR of tongue cancer.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the recent stabilization of tonsil cancer incidence and the contrasting increase in oral cavity cancer incidence, unlike other HPV‐unrelated cancers. These trends require further surveillance and understanding in terms of tumor biology and prevention.
Detection algorithm of safety helmet wearing based on deep learning
Authors: Huang Li , Fu Qiaobo , He Meiling , Jiang Du , Hao Zhiqiang
Published: February 2021

In the production and construction of industry, safety accidents caused by unsafe behaviors of staff often occur. In a complex construction site scene, due to improper operations by personnel, huge safety risks will be buried in the entire production process. The use of deep learning algorithms to replace manual monitoring of site safety regulations is a powerful guarantee for sticking to the line of safety in production. First, the improved YOLO v3 algorithm is used to output the predicted anchor box of the target object, and then pixel feature statistics are performed on the anchor box, and the weight coefficients are respectively multiplied to output the confidence of the standard wearing of the helmet in each predicted anchor box area, according to the empirical threshold determine whether workers meet the standards for wearing helmets. Experimental results show that the helmet wearing detection algorithm based on deep learning in this paper increases the feature map scale, optimizes the prior dimensional algorithm of specific helmet dataset, and improves the loss function, and then combines image processing pixel feature statistics to accurately detect whether the helmet is worn by the standard. The final result is that mAP reaches 93.1% and FPS reaches 55 f/s. In the helmet recognition task, compared to the original YOLO v3 algorithm, mAP is increased by 3.5% and FPS is increased by 3 f/s. It shows that the improved detection algorithm has a better effect on the detection speed and accuracy of the helmet detection task.
The influence of risk perception for COVID‐19 pandemic on posttraumatic stress disorder in healthcare workers: A survey from four designated hospitals
Authors: Geng Shiyu , Zhou Yaoguang , Zhang Wenyong , Lou Anni , Cai Yuhan , Xie Jieying , Sun Jing , Zhou Wangmei , Liu Weizhi , Li Xu
Published: February 2021

The aim of current study was to investigate risk perception of COVID‐19 pandemic, sleep quality and time change of leisure activity and their correlations with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in healthcare workers (HCWs) from four designated hospitals in China. Medical staffs (n = 317) from three designated hospitals in Guangdong Province and one designated hospital in Guangxi Province were surveyed on their demographic information, sleep quality and time change of leisure activity, risk perception of pandemic and PTSD symptoms (by using PTSD checklist for DSM‐5 (PCL‐5)). Hierarchical regression and structural equation model (SEM) were used to examine the correlated factors of PTSD. The prevalence of high level of PTSD symptoms (PCL‐5 > =33, a probable diagnosis of PTSD) was 10.7%. Regression analysis found that risk perception (dread: β = 0.142, p < 0.01; familiarity: β = 0.203, p < 0.01), sleep quality (β = 0.250, p < 0.001), time change of leisure activity (β = −0.179, p < 0.01), were independently correlated with PTSD severity, which was further confirmed by SEM. Locations of COVID‐19‐related hazards were significant different in cognitive map of risk perception between groups with high and low levels of PTSD symptoms. Risk perception of COVID‐19 pandemic influenced PTSD symptoms in HCWs. Adequate time for leisure activity and good sleep quality protected some HCWs against PTSD symptoms under the influence of pandemic. More researches were warranted to understand the path from pre‐factors of risk perception to its psychological consequences among HCWs.
Assembly and Exploration of a Single Cell Atlas of the Drosophila Larval Ventral Cord. Identification of Rare Cell Types
Authors: Vicidomini Rosario , Nguyen Tho Huu , Choudhury Saumitra Dey , Brody Thomas , Serpe Mihaela
Published: February 2021

Single‐cell RNA sequencing provides a new approach to an old problem: how to study cellular diversity in complex biological systems. This powerful tool has been instrumental in profiling different cell types and investigating, at the single‐cell level, cell states, functions, and responses. However, mining these data requires new analytical and statistical methods for high‐dimensional analyses that must be customized and adapted to specific goals. Here we present a custom multistage analysis pipeline which integrates modules contained in different R packages to ensure flexible, high‐quality RNA‐seq data analysis. We describe this workflow step by step, providing the codes, explaining the rationale for each function, and discussing the results and the limitations. We apply this pipeline to analyze different datasets of Drosophila larval ventral cords, identifying and describing rare cell types, such as astrocytes and neuroendocrine cells. This multistage analysis pipeline can be easily implemented by both novice and experienced scientists interested in neuronal and/or cellular diversity beyond the Drosophila model system. © 2021 US Government.

This article was corrected on 19 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.
In Vitro Cultivation of the Syphilis Spirochete Treponema pallidum
Authors: Edmondson Diane G. , Norris Steven J.
Published: February 2021

For over a century, investigation of Treponema pallidum subsp. pallidum, the spiral‐shaped bacterium that causes syphilis, was hindered by an inability to culture the organism in vitro. A recent breakthrough has enabled continuous in vitro growth of this organism in co‐culture with mammalian tissue culture cells. This article contains the protocols needed to culture T. pallidum in the standard laboratory environment. In addition, protocols for growing and maintaining the required tissue culture cells, for generating isogenic strains by limiting dilution, and for quantitating T. pallidum by darkfield microscopy are included. © 2021 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 19 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol 1: In vitro cultivation of Treponema pallidum

Basic Protocol 2: Generation of isogenic strains

Support Protocol 1: Alternate harvest procedure

Support Protocol 2: Culture of Sf1Ep cells

Support Protocol 3: Assessment of T. pallidum number and viability
Shear bond strength of acid and laser conditioned enamel and dentine to composite resin restorations: An in vitro study
Authors: Al Habdan Al Hanouf , Al Rabiah Reem , Al Busayes Riham
Published: February 2021

Objective

To compare the shear bond strength of enamel or dentin conditioned with either Er,Cr:YSGG (erbium, chromium: yttrium–scandium–gallium–garnet) laser or phosphoric acid to composite resin restoration.

Material and methods

Forty posterior human extracted teeth were used. After mesiodistal sectioning of the teeth crowns, the samples were randomly divided into two groups—in the first group (E), bonding was performed on the enamel after roughening and in the second group (D), the enamel was removed and bonding was performed on the dentin. These groups were further randomly divided into two subgroups according to the type of etching (n = 20 each). In the acid‐etched groups (EA and DA), the surfaces were etched with 37% phosphoric acid. In the laser‐conditioned groups (EL and DL), the surfaces were conditioned with Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Total‐etch adhesive system was used to bond all the 80 specimens resin composite. The composite was vertically light‐cured, and the specimens were subjected to a shear bond strength test. Modes of bond failure were determined with a stereomicroscope.

Results

The highest shear bond strength was observed for the DA group (16.25 ± 1.10 MPa, p < 0.0001), whereas the lowest was observed for the DL group (8.56 ± 0.67 MPa). The adhesive failure mode was the most frequently observed in all groups.

Conclusions

The shear bond strength of composite resin bonded to enamel and dentin etched with phosphoric acid was higher than when conditioned with Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Thus, laser conditioning is not recommended.
Differentiated consumer responses to corporate social responsibility domains moderated by corporate social responsibility perceptions: A Kano model‐based perspective
Authors: Li Jinhua , Chen Yongyi , Qing Qiankai
Published: February 2021

The extant literature has generally overlooked the qualitative differences in corporate social responsibility (CSR) domains. Inspired by this gap, we first propose and justify a new classification of CSR domains (including the must‐be, one‐dimensional and attractive domains) based on the Kano model from the perspective of consumer demand and then experimentally test consumers' differentiated responses to different CSR domains moderated by consumers' CSR perceptions in the cases of both CSR strengths and CSR lapses. Using a sample of adult consumers in China, we find that in both cases, the influences of the three CSR domains on consumers' company evaluation and purchase intention are different, and such influences are moderated by consumers' CSR perceptions and show characteristics of asymmetry. The results not only support asymmetric and nonlinear consumer responses to CSR domains but also provide a novel explanation for such phenomena.
Tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) in human carcinoma‐draining lymph nodes: a novel TAN compartment
Authors: Lonardi Silvia , Missale Francesco , Calza Stefano , Bugatti Mattia , Vescovi Raffaella , Debora Bresciani , Uppaluri Ravindra , Egloff Ann Marie , Mattavelli Davide , Lombardi Davide , Benerini Gatta Luisa , Marini Olivia , Tamassia Nicola , Gardiman Elisa , Cassatella Marco A , Scapini Patrizia , Nicolai Piero , Vermi William
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The role of tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) in the nodal spread of cancer cells remains unexplored. The present study evaluates the occurrence and clinical significance of human nodal TANs.

Methods

The relevance, derivation, phenotype and interactions of nodal TANs were explored via a large immunohistochemical analysis of carcinoma‐draining lymph nodes, and their clinical significance was evaluated on a retrospective cohort of oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC). The tumor‐promoting function of nodal TAN was probed in the OSCC TCGA dataset combining TAN and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) signatures.

Results

The pan‐carcinoma screening identified a consistent infiltration (59%) of CD66b+  TANs in tumor‐draining lymph nodes (TDLNs). Microscopic findings, including the occurrence of intra‐lymphatic conjugates of TANs and cancer cells, indicate that TANs migrate through lymphatic vessels. In vitro experiments revealed that OSCC cell lines sustain neutrophil viability and activation via release of GM‐CSF. Moreover, by retrospective analysis, a high CD66b+ TAN density in M‐TDLNs of OSCC (n = 182 patients) predicted a worse prognosis. The analysis of the OSCC‐TCGA dataset unveiled that the expression of a set of neutrophil‐specific genes in the primary tumor (PT) is highly associated with an EMT signature, which predicts nodal spread. Accordingly, in the PT of OSCC cases, CD66b+TANs co‐localised with PDPN+S100A9− EMT‐switched tumor cells in areas of lymphangiogenesis. The pro‐EMT signature is lacking in peripheral blood neutrophils from OSCC patients, suggesting tissue skewing of TANs.

Conclusion

Our findings are consistent with a novel pro‐tumoral TAN compartment that may promote nodal spread via EMT, through the lymphatics.