bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative trait loci impacting grain β‐glucan content in wild barley (Hordeum vulgare ssp. spontaneum) reveals genes associated with cell wall modification and carbohydrate metabolism
Authors: Walling Jason G. , Sallam Ahmad H. , Steffenson Brian J. , Henson Cynthia , Vinje Marcus A. , Mahalingam Ramamurthy
Published: March 2022

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) seeds are a rich source of β‐glucans that can help reduce blood serum cholesterol content in human diets. However, high levels of this polysaccharide in the seeds causes inefficiencies such as slow lautering during the brewing process due to the higher wort viscosity. Thus, depending on the end use, barley breeding programs have opposing goals with respect to β‐glucan. Discovery of new alleles for β‐glucan content in exotic barley germplasm could have significant commercial importance. We leveraged the Wild Barley Diversity Collection (WBDC; N = 314), grown at University of California‐Davis experiment station, to characterize both the variation in β‐glucan content found in this wild barley subspecies (Hordeum vulgare spp. spontaneum) and to reveal chromosomal regions associated with this trait. Grain β‐glucan content ranged from 2.56 to 11.73% in the WBDC. Within structured subpopulations, geographical coordinates as well as annual precipitation data of original collection sites showed associations with differing levels of β‐glucan content. Genome‐wide association study identified a total of 13 quantitative traits loci (QTL) spread across the seven barley chromosomes that explained most of the variation in β‐glucan content in the WBDC. Previously reported genes associated with β‐glucan content such as β‐glucan synthases and hydrolases (e.g., callose synthase) were identified within these QTL regions. Genes such as Patatin and Nudix hydrolase provide novel targets for manipulating grain β‐glucan in barley. RNA‐seq data from both developing and germinating barley seeds for the annotated genes in the QTL regions provide further corroboration for a functional role for these genes in modulating seed β‐glucan levels.
A Hybrid Assembly with Nickel Poly‐Pyridine Polymer on CdS Quantum Dots for Photo‐Reducing CO2 into Syngas with Controlled H2/CO Ratios
Authors: Wang Hong‐Yan , Xie Wei‐Hua , Wei Dong‐Dong , Hu Rong , Wang Na , Chang Kai , Lei Shuang‐Lei , Wang Bin , Cao Rui
Published: March 2022

A hybrid photocatalytic assembly with Ni poly‐pyridine polymers binding on CdS quantum dots was developed via thiophene immobilization. The fabricated hybrid assembly facilitated efficient charge separation, and each component endowed great synergy. As a result, a high syngas production rate was achieved over 5500 μmol gcat−1 h−1 from photocatalytic CO2 reduction under visible‐light irradiation, accompanied by an adjustable H2/CO ratio ranging from 4 : 1 to 1 : 3. A novel hybrid assembly was described for syngas synthesis with boosted activity and controlled selectivity, which provides a profile to ingeniously understand molecular‐level design for photocatalysts.
Functional trait database for Nova Scotian coastal barren, green roof, and ruderal flora
Authors: Heim Amy , Lundholm Jeremy
Published: March 2022

This is the first plant functional trait database for Nova Scotia, Canada. The data contained here were collected between 2016 and 2019 from locations around Halifax, Nova Scotia. The species selected for trait collection were chosen based on species inventories taken across Nova Scotian coastal barrens and from green roofs at Saint Mary's University. The purpose of the coastal barren trait data was to understand community assembly in this understudied ecosystem. The green roof inventory was included as coastal barren species are known to succeed on green roofs in Nova Scotia. The green roof trait data was used to answer questions surrounding coexistence and trait divergence, and community assembly and spatial heterogeneity. In total, this database contains 14,341 trait values from 203 species comprising 130 genera and 53 families. The majority of species are commonly found on coastal barrens (84 species), disturbed sites (48 species), and forests (27 species). Additionally, this database contains trait data for 30 species that have been successfully established (survival for >1 year) on green roofs in Nova Scotia and ruderal species that commonly colonize both green roofs and coastal barrens. This database contains 12 plant functional traits: leaf thickness (203 species), leaf area (203 species), specific leaf area (203 species), leaf dry matter content (203 species), plant height (203 species), canopy width (203 species), seed mass (79 species), seed shape (61 species), root radius (22 species), leaf phosphorus content (3 species), leaf nitrogen content (30 species), and leaf carbon content (30 species). The species in this database can be subdivided into 10 growth forms, with the majority of species characterized as forbs (75 species), shrubs (56 species), or graminoids (33 species). This data set is freely available for scientific use; when used in published analyses, this paper should be referred to as the data source.
Controlled Synthesis of β‐Keto Sulfones and Vinyl Sulfones under Electrochemical Oxidation
Authors: Fang Yang , Xu Dongping , Yu Yingliang , Tang Rumeng , Dai Shuaishuai , Wang Zhenghua , Zhang Wu
Published: March 2022

Selective sulfonylation and oxosulfonylation of alkenes with sulfinates have been developed via anodic oxidation in an undivided cell. The novel electrosynthetic method provided β‐keto sulfones and vinyl sulfones with good to excellent yields in the absence of any transition metal catalyst and oxidants. Mechanism studies show that two different pathways involved in these two transformations.
Unique features of central neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis: Results of a cluster analysis
Authors: Rivel Michal , Achiron Anat , Dolev Mark , Stern Yael , Zeilig Gabi , Defrin Ruth
Published: March 2022

Background

Central neuropathic pain (CNP) is an excruciating condition, prevalent in up to a third of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Identifying CNP among MS patients is particularly challenging considering the ample comorbid chronic pain conditions and sensory disturbances entailed by the disease. The aim was to identify sensory features unique to CNP beyond those of chronic pain and MS.

Methods

Participants were 112 MS patients: 44 with a diagnosis of CNP, 28 with a diagnosis of chronic musculoskeletal pain (MSP), and 40 pain free. Participants underwent testing of thermal and mechanical thresholds, thermal grill illusion (TGI), pain adaptation (PA), and offset analgesia (OA), and chronic pain was characterized. A two‐step cluster analysis was performed, and the association between the cluster membership and the clinical group membership (CNP, MSP, pain free) was evaluated.

Results

The CNP and MSP groups were similar in most of the chronic pain variables (e.g., severity, location and quality) and MS‐related variables (e.g., type, severity and medication intake). The three created clusters had unique sensory features: (1) ‘Hyposensitivity’ (increased thermal and touch thresholds) characterized the CNP group; (2) ‘Poor inhibition and hyperalgesia’ (worst PA and OA and decreased TGI threshold) characterized the MSP group; and (3) ‘Efficient inhibition’ (best PA and OA, smallest sensory loss) characterized the pain‐free group.

Conclusions

The unique sensory features of CNP and MSP provide insight into their pathophysiology, and evaluating them may increase the ability to provide individually based interventions. Efficient inhibition may protect MS patients from chronic pain.

Significance

Cluster analysis among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) revealed that while central neuropathic pain is associated with thermal and mechanical hypoesthesia, musculoskeletal pain is involved with reduced pain inhibition and hyperalgesia; sensory profiles that provide insights into the mechanisms of these conditions and may promote an individually based pain management.
Multi‐hour ahead forecasting of building energy through a new integrated model
Authors: Cherier Mohamed Kamal , Hamdani Maamar , Guermoui Mawloud , Bouchouicha Kada , Bekkouche Sidi Mohammed El Amine
Published: March 2022

The increase in electricity demand requires improved energy planning programs, which involve better energy distribution. Therefore, precise energy demand forecasting is of great importance for optimizing energy distribution. In this respect, a new hybrid forecasting model was proposed in this study for multi‐hour forecasting of total energy requirement (cooling and heating load of buildings) in three different regions in Algeria with different climate conditions. The proposed models are based on two main steps: In the first step, time‐series data were decomposed using Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (CEEMDAN) into a different intrinsic function (IMFs), and then extreme learning machine (ELM) is employed as essence predictors. The proposed CEEMDAN‐ELM model uses the decomposed IMFs as input data, and the total energy concern as a desired output. The integrated CEEMDAN‐ELM model was evaluated and validated on three different databases each of which had 2 years of measurement on an hourly scale. Experimental results show that the hybridization mechanism CEEMDAN‐ELM outperform the stand‐alone model (ELM) in terms of forecasting errors over the entire forecasting horizon. Forecasting results of CEEMDAN‐ELM led to a normalized root mean square error (nRMSE) in the range of [0.71–4.66] for all studied regions and horizons whereas conventional ELM provides an nRMSE in the range of [0.93–16.89].
Disproportionate and chronic sediment delivery from a fluvially controlled, deep‐seated landslide in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: McColl Samuel Thomas , Holdsworth Charlotte Naomi , Fuller Ian Christopher , Todd Malcolm , Williams Forrest
Published: March 2022

Past research has highlighted the importance of sediment delivery from multiple‐occurrence regional landslide events triggered by storms or earthquakes. Herein, we examine delivery from a more persistent source of sediment, that of a large, slow‐moving landslide in the soft‐rock hill country of Aotearoa New Zealand. We map and monitor the 80‐ha Rangitikei Landslide from 2015 to 2019 using time‐lapse photography, ground surveys, photogrammetry, and piezometers. We show that the landslide can be divided into several zones with distinctive movement patterns, but all zones respond to river erosion. The fastest zone moves more than 10 m per year in a flow‐like fashion, while other zones move 0.01 m per year via slow sliding. Movement occurs all year round, but is two to three times faster in winter and spring. While rainfall and associated groundwater change are commonly attributed to landslide movement patterns, our data show that river flow correlates closely with the weekly to seasonal variability in movement of the landslide toe. This suggests that fluvial erosion can play an important role in the movement dynamics of highly coupled landslides. We estimate an annual sediment yield to the Rangitikei River of at least 40 000 tonnes, in this first quantification of sediment delivery from an active soft‐rock landslide in Aotearoa. This volume implies 7% of the total catchment suspended sediment yield is derived from 0.03% of the contributing catchment area, demonstrating the disproportionate effect of this (and likely other) deep‐seated landslide(s) as a source of sediment in the Rangitikei catchment. Sediment delivery is more continuous than the episodic supply of multiple‐occurrence regional landslide triggering events, and by delivering mostly fine‐grained sediment, it has a potentially large impact on water quality.
(Un)common space in infant neuroimaging studies: A systematic review of infant templates
Authors: Dufford Alexander J. , Hahn C. Alice , Peterson Hannah , Gini Silvia , Mehta Saloni , Alfano Alexis , Scheinost Dustin
Published: March 2022

In neuroimaging, spatial normalization is an important step that maps an individual's brain onto a template brain permitting downstream statistical analyses. Yet, in infant neuroimaging, there remain several technical challenges that have prevented the establishment of a standardized template for spatial normalization. Thus, many different approaches are used in the literature. To quantify the popularity and variability of these approaches in infant neuroimaging studies, we performed a systematic review of infant magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies from 2000 to 2020. Here, we present results from 834 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Studies were classified into (a) processing data in single subject space, (b) using an off the shelf, or “off the shelf,” template, (c) creating a study specific template, or (d) using a hybrid of these methods. We found that across the studies in the systematic review, single subject space was the most used (no common space). This was the most used common space for diffusion‐weighted imaging and structural MRI studies while functional MRI studies preferred off the shelf atlases. We found a pattern such that more recently published studies are more commonly using off the shelf atlases. When considering special populations, preterm studies most used single subject space while, when no special populations were being analyzed, an off the shelf template was most common. The most used off the shelf templates were the UNC Infant Atlases (24%). Using a systematic review of infant neuroimaging studies, we highlight a lack of an established “standard” template brain in these studies.
The causal role of the bilateral ventrolateral prefrontal cortices on emotion regulation of social feedback
Authors: Li Sijin , Xie Hui , Zheng Zixin , Chen Weimao , Xu Feng , Hu Xiaoqing , Zhang Dandan
Published: March 2022

The ventrolateral prefrontal cortices (VLPFC) are crucial regions involved in voluntary emotion regulation. However, the lateralization of the VLPFC in downregulating negative emotions remains unclear; and whether the causal role of the VLPFC is generalizable to upregulating positive emotions is unexplored. This study used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to examine the causal relationship between the left/right VLPFC and social emotion reappraisal. One hundred and twenty participants were randomly assigned to either active (left and right VLPFC groups, n = 40/40) or sham (vertex, n = 40) TMS groups. Participants were instructed to passively receive social feedback or use reappraisal strategies to positively regulate their emotions. While the subjective emotional rating showed that the bilateral VLPFC facilitated the reappraisal success, the electrophysiological measure of the late positive potential (LPP) demonstrated a more critical role of the right VLPFC on social pain relief (decreased LPP amplitudes) and social reward magnification (enhanced LPP amplitudes). In addition, the influence of emotion regulation on social evaluation was found to be mediated by the memory of social feedback, indicating the importance of memory in social behavioral shaping. These findings suggest clinical protocols for the rehabilitation of emotion‐regulatory function in patients with affective and social disorders.
Gut Dysbiosis and Fecal Calprotectin Predict Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ponziani Francesca Romana , De Luca Angela , Picca Anna , Marzetti Emanuele , Petito Valentina , Del Chierico Federica , Reddel Sofia , Paroni Sterbini Francesco , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Putignani Lorenza , Gasbarrini Antonio , Pompili Maurizio
Published: March 2022

The gut microbiota is a well‐known prognostic factor and a modulator of treatment sensitivity in patients with cancers treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, data on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic role of the gut microbiota and changes produced by immunotherapy on the intestinal environment in patients with cirrhosis and HCC. Eleven patients treated with Tremelimumab and/or Durvalumab were included in the analysis. All study participants underwent gut microbiota profiling, quantification of fecal calprotectin, serum levels of zonulin‐1, lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP), and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) at baseline and at each treatment cycle until the third cycle, then every three cycles until treatment discontinuation or last visit. The 6 patients who achieved disease control (DC) showed lower pretreatment fecal calprotectin (median, 12.5; interquartile range [IQR], 5‐29 vs. median, 116; IQR, 59‐129 µg/g; P = 0.047) and PD‐L1 serum levels (median, 0.08; IQR, 0.07‐0.09 vs. median, 1.04; IQR, 0.17‐1.95 ng/mL; P = 0.02) than nonresponders. The relative abundance of Akkermansia (log2 fold change [FC], 2.72; adjusted P [Padj] = 0.012) was increased, whereas that of Enterobacteriaceae (log2 FC, −2.34; Padj = 0.04) was reduced in the DC group. During treatment, fecal calprotectin showed a temporal evolution opposite to the Akkermansia to Enterobacteriaceae ratio and gut microbiota alpha diversity, but similar to zonulin‐1 and LBP. Bifidobacterium had a stable behavior in patients with a long follow‐up, while Akkermansia was more variable. Akkermansia and Bifidobacterium showed similar temporal patterns and causative relationships with Prevotella, Veillonella, Ruminococcus, Roseburia, Lachnospira, Faecalibacterium, and Clostridium. Conclusion: A favorable composition of the gut microbiota and low intestinal inflammation are associated with achieving DC. The intestinal environment changes dynamically during therapy.
Are social isolation, lack of social support or loneliness risk factors for cardiovascular disease in Australia and New Zealand? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Freak‐Poli Rosanne , Phyo Aung Zaw Zaw , Hu Jessie , Barker S. Fiona
Published: March 2022

Background

An international systematic review concluded that individuals with poor social health (social isolation, lack of social support or loneliness) are 30% more likely to develop coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke. Notably, the two included Australian papers reported no association between social health and CHD or stroke.

Objective

We undertook a systematic review and meta‐analysis to investigate the association between social isolation, lack of social support and loneliness and cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence among people living in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

Four electronic databases were systematically searched for longitudinal studies published until June 2020. Two reviewers undertook title/abstract screen and one reviewer undertook full‐text screen and data extraction. Quality was assessed using the Newcastle – Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale.

Results

Of the 725 unique records retrieved, five papers met our inclusion criteria. These papers reported data from three Australian longitudinal datasets, with a total of 2137 CHD and 590 stroke events recorded over follow‐up periods ranging from 3 to 16 years. Reports of two CHD and two stroke outcomes were suitable for meta‐analysis. The included papers reported no association between social health and incidence of CVD in all fully adjusted models and most unadjusted models.

Conclusions

Our systematic review is inconclusive as it identified only a few studies, which relied heavily on self‐reported CVD. Further studies using medical diagnosis of CVD, and assessing the potential influence of residential remoteness, are needed to better understand the relationship between social health and CVD incidence in Australia and New Zealand.
Efficacy of intradermal injection of tranexamic acid and ascorbic acid versus tranexamic acid and placebo in the treatment of melasma: A split‐face comparative trial
Authors: Pazyar Nader , Molavi Seyedeh Nasrin , Hosseinpour Parisa , Hadibarhaghtalab Maryam , Parvar Seyedeh Yasamin , Dezfuly Motahareh Babazadeh
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

Melasma is a common dermatologic disorder characterized by symmetrical hyperpigmented lesions on the face. Although various therapeutic options are available for melasma, its treatment remains challenging. The present study evaluated the safety and efficacy of intradermal microinjection of tranexamic acid (TA) plus ascorbic acid in treating melasma lesions compared with TA and placebo.

Methods

From September 2019 to May 2020, 24 patients with symmetrical melasma were enrolled in a prospective, double‐blind, split‐face, randomized controlled clinical trial. Each patient received 50 mg/ml TA and 50 mg/ml ascorbic acid for one side of the face (A) and 50 mg/ml TA and placebo for the other side (B) every 2 weeks for 12 weeks. The Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score, Physician Global Assessment, and pain were measured at baseline and at 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software version 16, and data were reported as mean ± standard deviation or median and interquartile range.χ2and Fisher's exact tests were used to test differences between the groups.

Results

Both groups experienced a significant decrease in MASI scores compared with the baseline. The MASI score was significantly less in the intervention group than the placebo group at the 8th and 12th weeks. However, burning pain was significantly more prominent in the intervention group.

Conclusion

Intradermal injection of ascorbic acid combined with TA can be beneficial in treating melasma. Currently, there are numerous treatment modalities for melasma. However, the results still vary, and satisfactory outcomes are yet to be reached.
Depression, anxiety, stress, and suicidal behavior among Bangladeshi undergraduate rehabilitation students: An observational study amidst the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ali Mohammad , Uddin Zakir , Amran Hossain Kazi M. , Uddin Turjo R.
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

Common mental health symptoms (CMHS) like depressive moods, anxiety, and stress are the underlying causes of suicidal behavior. The incidence of suicide is higher among Bangladeshi students. Due to the pandemic, students of health/rehabilitation sciences are at the most significant risk. This study aimed to measure the prevalence rate and predicting factors for depression, anxiety and stress, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts in Bangladeshi undergraduate rehabilitation students.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included data from 731 participants. Descriptive analyses estimated prevalence, and multivariate logistic regression models identified the factors associated with CMHS and suicidal behavior after adjusting the confounders.

Results

The result shows a high prevalence of moderate to very severe CMHS and a higher risk of suicidal ideation among rehabilitation students. Sociodemographic factors, illness, behavior, institution, and subject‐related issues were identified as the predicting factors of CMHS and suicidal behavior. The students suffering from mental health symptoms reported suicidal ideation and attempted at a significantly higher rate.

Conclusion

To deal with CHMS and suicide risk, a holistic, supportive approach from government and academic institutions are essential for minimizing the predicting factors identified by this study. The study is helpful for the government regulatory body and policymakers to take immediate steps for preventing CMHS and suicidal behavior among rehabilitation students in Bangladesh.
Safety and efficacy of lidocaine plus epinephrine on intraoperative bleeding in abdominal myomectomy: A double‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Mansour‐Ghanaei Mandana , Hosseinzadeh Fatemeh , Sharami Seyedeh Hajar , Biazar Gelareh , Noori Fatemeh , Asgari‐Ghalebin Seyed Mohammad
Published: March 2022

Background

Uterine fibroid is a common benign pelvic tumor and abdominal myomectomy may cause excessive intraoperative bleeding, which may lead to adverse outcomes.

Objective

This study was planned to evaluate the effectiveness of the injection of lidocaine plus epinephrine to reduce intraoperative bleeding in abdominal myomectomy.

Methods

During October 2019 and May 2020, 60 eligible women with uterine fibroids were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial. Our patients were divided into two groups of lidocaine plus epinephrine defined as Group L and placebo defined as Group P. In group L, lidocaine 3 mg/kg plus 0.5 ml of adrenaline which reached to 50 cc with saline solution and in group P, 50 ml of normal saline was used. Both the combined solution and normal saline were infiltrated to the serous and myometrium above and around the fibroid before incision. Patients' demographic data, total operative time, hemoglobin changes, and the degree of surgical difficulty were evaluated and compared between the two groups.

Results

There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic data. Hemoglobin changes (p  0.0001) and the degree of surgery difficulty (p = 0.01) were significantly lower in Group L compared with Group P. In each group the drop in hemoglobin levels from baseline to 4 h postoperatively was significant (p  0.0001). A significantly meaningful correlation was reported between hemoglobin changes and the degree of surgery difficulty with the size of the uterine and fibroids (p < 0.05). While a negative correlation was found regarding gravidity and surgery difficulty (r = −0.413, p = 0.02). Surgery duration was longer in Group P compared with Group L 70.66 ± 19.85 versus 66.16 ± 14.48, respectively, but with no significant difference (p = 0.32). No significant adverse reaction or serious complication was reported in the two groups. Hemodynamic parameters were kept in the normal range throughout the surgery.

Conclusion

A combination of lidocaine plus epinephrine during abdominal myomectomy appears to be a safe and effective method in reducing blood loss.
Detection of circulating tumor human papillomavirus DNA before diagnosis of HPV‐positive head and neck cancer
Authors: Rettig Eleni M. , Faden Daniel L. , Sandhu Shaiba , Wong Kristine , Faquin William C. , Warinner Chloe , Stephens Phil , Kumar Sunil , Kuperwasser Charlotte , Richmon Jeremy D. , Uppaluri Ravindra , Varvares Mark , Sethi Rosh , Hanna Glenn J. , Sroussi Herve
Published: March 2022

Human papillomavirus (HPV), most commonly HPV16, causes a growing subset of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs), including the overwhelming majority of oropharynx squamous cell carcinomas in many developed countries. Circulating biomarkers for HPV‐positive HNSCC may allow for earlier diagnosis, with potential to decrease morbidity and mortality. This case‐control study evaluated whether circulating tumor HPV DNA (ctHPVDNA) is detectable in prediagnostic plasma from individuals later diagnosed with HPV‐positive HNSCC. Cases were participants in a hospital‐based research biobank with archived plasma collected ≥6 months before HNSCC diagnosis, and available archival tumor tissue for HPV testing. Controls were biobank participants without cancer or HPV‐related diagnoses, matched 10:1 to cases by sex, race, age and year of plasma collection. HPV DNA was detected in plasma and tumor tissue using a previously validated digital droplet PCR‐based assay that quantifies tumor‐tissue‐modified viral (TTMV) HPV DNA. Twelve HNSCC patients with median age of 68.5 years (range, 51‐87 years) were included. Ten (83.3%) had HPV16 DNA‐positive tumors. ctHPV16DNA was detected in prediagnostic plasma from 3 of 10 (30%) patients with HPV16‐positive tumors, including 3 of 7 (43%) patients with HPV16‐positive oropharynx tumors. The timing of the plasma collection was 19, 34 and 43 months before cancer diagnosis. None of the 100 matched controls had detectable ctHPV16DNA. This is the first report that ctHPV16 DNA is detectable at least several years before diagnosis of HPV16‐positive HNSCC for a subset of patients. Further investigation of ctHPV16DNA as a biomarker for early diagnosis of HPV16‐positive HNSCC is warranted.
ICN‐Enabled construction of undergraduates' online education platform and improvement of teaching reform effect
Authors: Zhao Jinling
Published: March 2022

The emergence and development of Internet technology has brought profound influence to the field of education. The construction of online education platform based on Internet can provide undergraduates with a more open learning environment and richer learning resources, which is of great significance to improve the effectiveness of teaching reform. Information‐centric Networking (ICN) has been widely used in different fields, and its application provides possibility for the construction of online education platform. This paper proposes cache strategy of ICN‐enabled online education platform traffic load control by deploying online education platform resources in ICN. The simulation results reveal that the proposed ICN‐enabled online education platform has improved the results of teaching reform in terms of teaching mode satisfaction, assessment method satisfaction, overall satisfaction, undergraduates' achievement, and the Quality of Experience (QoE) towards teaching reform.
Genipin‐crosslinked collagen scaffolds inducing chondrogenesis: a mechanical and biological characterization
Authors: Scialla Stefania , Gullotta Fabiana , Izzo Daniela , Palazzo Barbara , Scalera Francesca , Martin Ivan , Sannino Alessandro , Gervaso Francesca
Published: March 2022

Articular cartilage degeneration is still an unsolved issue owing to its weak repairing capabilities, which usually result in fibrocartilage tissue formation. This fibrous tissue lacks of structural and bio‐mechanical properties, degrading over time. Currently, arthroscopic techniques and autologous transplantation are the most used clinical procedures. However, rather than restoring cartilage integrity, these methods only postpone further cartilage deterioration. Therefore, tissue engineering strategies aimed at selecting scaffolds that remarkably support the chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) could represent a promising solution, but they are still challenging for researchers. In this study, the influence of two different genipin (Gp) crosslinking routes on collagen (Coll)‐based scaffolds in terms of hMSCs chondrogenic differentiation and biomechanical performances was investigated. Three‐dimensional (3D) porous Coll scaffolds were fabricated by freeze‐drying techniques and were crosslinked with Gp following a “two‐step” and an in “bulk” procedure, in order to increase the physico‐mechanical stability of the structure. Chondrogenic differentiation efficacy of hMSCs and biomechanical behavior under compression forces through unconfined stress–strain tests were assessed. Coll/Gp scaffolds revealed an isotropic and highly homogeneous pore distribution along with an increase in the stiffness, also supported by the increase in the Coll denaturation temperature (Td = 57–63°C) and a significant amount of Coll and GAG deposition during the 3 weeks of chondrogenic culture. In particular, the presence of Gp in “bulk” led to a more uniform and homogenous chondral‐like matrix deposition by hMSCs if compared to the results obtained from the Gp “two‐step” functionalization procedure.
Aberrant blood MALT1 and its relevance with multiple organic dysfunctions, T helper cells, inflammation, and mortality risk of sepsis patients
Authors: Wang Yibin , Huang Qinghe , He Fuyun
Published: March 2022

Background

MALT1 is linked with multiple organic dysfunctions, inflammatory storm, and T helper (Th) cell differentiation. Herein, the current study aimed to investigate the correlation of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) MALT1 with Th1 cells, Th17 cells, and prognosis of sepsis patients.

Methods

In general, 78 sepsis patients and 40 health controls (HCs) were enrolled. MALT1 expression was detected in PBMCs from all subjects by RT‐qPCR. Besides, Th1 and Th17 cells were measured in PBMCs from sepsis patients by flow cytometry; interleukin 17A (IL‐17A) and interferon gamma (IFN‐γ) were determined in serum from sepsis patients by ELISA.

Results

MALT1 expression was higher in sepsis patients than HCs (p < 0.001). MALT1 expression was positively correlated with Th17 cells (rs = 0.291, p = 0.038) and IL‐17A (rs = 0.383, p = 0.001), but not with Th1 cells (rs = 0.204, p = 0.151) or IFN‐γ (rs = 0.175, p = 0.125) in sepsis patients. MALT1 expression was positively correlated with APACHE II score (rs = 0.275, p = 0.015), C‐reactive protein (CRP) (rs = 0.257, p = 0.023), and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score (rs = 0.306, p = 0.006) (MALT1 expression was positively correlated with SOFA respiratory system score (rs = 0.348, p = 0.002), and SOFA liver score (rs = 0.260, p = 0.021), but not with SOFA scores in nervous system, cardio vascular system, coagulation, and renal system (all p > 0.05)). MALT1 expression (p = 0.010), Th1 cells (p = 0.010), Th17 cells (p = 0.038), and IL‐17A (p = 0.012), except for IFN‐γ (p = 0.102), elevated in sepsis deaths compared with sepsis survivors.

Conclusion

PBMC MALT1 is highly expressed in sepsis patients with its overexpression associated with multiple organic dysfunctions, elevated Th17 cells, and increased mortality risk.
Catalytic performance of Ru/TiO2 on hydrodeoxygenation of levulinic acid dimer, taking sebacic acid as a model compound
Authors: Wu Han , An Hualiang , Zhao Xinqiang , Wang Yanji
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

As a bio‐derived platform molecule, levulinic acid can be converted to liquid fuels with similar components as aviation kerosene after undergoing aldol self‐condensation and successive hydrodeoxygenation reactions. In view of its complicated composition, sebacic acid was selected as a model compound for the investigating the hydrodeoxygenation performance of the product of levulinic acid self‐condensation in this work.

RESULTS

Firstly, a series of supported metal catalysts were screened and characterized by temperature‐programmed desorption of NH3 and CO2, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and CO pulse chemisorption. The results indicated that Ru/TiO2 showed the highest selectivity to total long‐chain alkanes at the complete conversion of sebacic acid. Then, the influence of preparation conditions on the catalytic performance of Ru/TiO2 and the effect of reaction conditions on the hydrodeoxygenation of sebacic acid were studied. On this basis, possible hydrodeoxygenation reaction routes were discussed.

CONCLUSION

The excellent catalytic performance of Ru/TiO2 is attributed to a moderate degree of Ru reduction and dispersion, along with its unique acid–base characteristics. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Questionable research practices among researchers in the most research‐productive management programs
Authors: Kepes Sven , Keener Sheila K. , McDaniel Michael A. , Hartman Nathan S.
Published: March 2022

Questionable research practices (QRPs) among researchers have been a source of concern in many fields of study. QRPs are often used to enhance the probability of achieving statistical significance which affects the likelihood of a paper being published. Using a sample of researchers from 10 top research‐productive management programs, we compared hypotheses tested in dissertations to those tested in journal articles derived from those dissertations to draw inferences concerning the extent of engagement in QRPs. Results indicated that QRPs related to changes in sample size and covariates were associated with unsupported dissertation hypotheses becoming supported in journal articles. Researchers also tended to exclude unsupported dissertation hypotheses from journal articles. Likewise, results suggested that many article hypotheses may have been created after the results were known (i.e., HARKed). Articles from prestigious journals contained a higher percentage of potentially HARKed hypotheses than those from less well‐regarded journals. Finally, articles published in prestigious journals were associated with more QRP usage than less prestigious journals. QRPs increase in the percentage of supported hypotheses and result in effect sizes that likely overestimate population parameters. As such, results reported in articles published in our most prestigious journals may be less credible than previously believed.
Connecting the dots of care: survey of Australian hospital pharmacy departments regarding current initiatives in place to care for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander inpatients
Authors: Welch Susan , Patel Bhavini , Williams Aleena , Moles Rebekah
Published: March 2022

Introduction

There are limited data describing the role of hospital pharmacists caring for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander inpatients.

Objectives

To determine roles of and specific services provided by Australian Hospital pharmacists/Pharmacy Departments in providing medicine management services to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people admitted to Australian hospitals. The actual and perceived outcomes will be explored.

Method

Mixed method (online survey/ telephone semi‐structured interviews). The survey was emailed to all Directors of pharmacy departments listed in The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia Directory (January 2019). Participants were invited for a digital, audio recorded follow‐up telephone interview. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed.

Results

Sixty‐nine responses were received from 313 pharmacy departments (RR = 22%), of these, 20 (29%) pharmacists agreed to and underwent a semi‐structured interview. All hospital categories, states and territories were represented: Metropolitan (33, 48%); regional (22, 32%); rural (12, 17%) and remote (2, 3%).

Over half (44, 64%) had specific processes for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander inpatients. Service outcome measurement was low (10, 14%). Survey results and qualitative interviews revealed work is being done under the broad themes: culturally safe care; provision of culturally appropriate medicines information; chronic disease management; continuum of care; managing funding models. Potential outcome measures and future plans were proposed.

Conclusion

Several sites have pharmacy services in place specifically for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people admitted to hospital which are not included in the literature; however, outcomes of these services were not routinely assessed. The challenges faced are similar to those cited in international literature, including managing continuity of care issues and working in partnership on projects tailored to the needs of Indigenous peoples. Wider knowledge, evaluation and measurement of the impact of these services on health outcomes and equity is needed and would allow hospital pharmacy teams to better tailor initiatives to meet the needs of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
Enantioseparation and dissipation of acephate and its highly toxic metabolite methamidophos in pakchoi by supercritical fluid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Jiang Linjie , Geng Yue , Wang Lu , Peng Yi , Jing Wei , Xu Yaping , Liu Xiaowei
Published: March 2022

Acephate is widely used in crops as racemate. However, the enantioselective dissipation of acephate enantiomers has not been investigated in pakchoi. A sensitive and effective approach was established for determining residues of acephate and its highly toxic metabolite methamidophos enantiomers by supercritical fluid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Baseline separations for their enantiomers were achieved by using a Chiralcel OD‐H column. The optimal chromatographic conditions were obtained as follows: CO2/ethanol (95/5) as mobile phase; flow rate, 3.0 mL/min; column temperature, 40°C. The mean recoveries (RSDs) of analytes were in the range of 77–83.1% (6.1–9.9%), 75.4–87.5% (9.3–13.2%), and 81.5–84.2% (7.1–13.4%) at three fortification levels (0.005, 0.05, and 0.5 mg/kg for each enantiomer) for interday assay (n = 18). The method was used to evaluate the enantioselective dissipation of acephate and methamidophos in pakchoi. S‐acephate dissipated faster than R‐acephate, while the concentration of R‐methamidophos was higher than that of S‐methamidophos during the entire study period. The results indicated that the R‐enantiomer of acephate and methamidophos was preferentially enriched in pakchoi. The established analysis approach and the study data provided useful information for the rational use of acephate in agriculture.
Goiter surgery recommendations in sub‐Saharan Africa in humanitarian cooperation
Authors: Martinez José Gil , González Miguel , Hernández Quiteria , Rodríguez María Angeles , Torregrosa Nuria , Gil Elena , Cascales Pedro Antonio , Delgado Miguel Angel , Sancho Joan , Lopez‐Lopez Victor , Rodriguez Jose Manuel
Published: March 2022

Background

The standard treatment for endemic goiter is usually total thyroidectomy. In low‐ and middle‐income countries, the management of thyroid disease, which is commonplace in fully developed countries, is not always possible. The purpose of this study is to establish a treatment algorithm to calculate the extent of thyroidectomy based on the risk factors of each patient.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study conducted during the period between 2017 and 2019. A total of 287 patients with thyroid pathology were treated in Maragua Hospital (Kenya). The results of surgical treatment were analyzed after the implementation of an individualized treatment protocol.

Results

One hundred and sixty patients with different types of goiter underwent surgery: solitary nodule (54.4%), multi‐nodular goiter (30.6%), diffuse goiter (10.6%), and intrathoracic goiter (3.8%). The techniques used were hemithyroidectomy (78.8%), Dunhill thyroidectomy (9.4%), bilateral subtotal thyroidectomy (6.9%), and total thyroidectomy (3.1%). There was no mortality. The surgical morbidity rate was 16% (only one major complication (3b)). Two cases of dysphonia were resolved in the first week. There were three cases of symptomatic hypocalcaemia, two of which resolved in the first week and the other of which was definitive. The follow‐up at 6 months was 67%. The cancer rate found in the resection specimens was 5%.

Discussion

The implementation of individualized surgical protocols for thyroid surgery in sub‐Saharan Africa can improve outcomes. The cooperation projects can increase access to complex surgical treatment for patients with limited resources in low‐ and middle‐income countries.
Liquid Crystalline Composite Stabilized by Epoxy Polymer with Boscage‐Like Morphology for Energy‐Efficient Smart Windows with High Stability
Authors: Chen Gang , Hu Junmei , Xu Jianjun , Sun Jian , Xiao Jiumei , Zhang Lanying , Wang Xiao , Hu Wei , Yang Huai
Published: March 2022

Smart windows, which can provide comfortable indoor conditions for cars or buildings and protect the privacy of people, have attracted much attention. Traditional acrylate‐based smart windows have the disadvantages of high energy consumption and poor stability. Herein, an energy‐efficient smart window based on a liquid crystalline composite stabilized by an epoxy polymer with boscage‐like morphology is reported. This epoxy polymer is prepared by cationic polymerization of the liquid crystalline epoxy monomer E6M in vertically oriented negative nematic liquid crystals. The orientation of the liquid crystals is controlled by the epoxy polymer, which makes the composite film transparent and switchable to scattering by an electric field. Therefore, the composite film can be used in an energy‐efficient reverse‐mode smart window. The reverse‐mode smart window has better cycling stability than does acrylate, owing to the better mechanical properties endowed by the polymer matrix with a unique morphology and high stress tolerance.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation for Selecting Proportion of G2/CIIR Composite with Optimal Damping Properties
Authors: Lan Yunrui , Song Weijin , Wang Jincheng
Published: March 2022

In this work, the mechanism and optimal ratio of dendritic amino‐terminated aromatic polyamide G2 as a damping agent to improve the damping properties of chlorinated butyl rubber (CIIR) are studied. G2 can effectively improve the damping properties of CIIR composite by hydrogen‐bonding interactions. The types and quantities of hydrogen bonds in the gradient proportional G2/CIIR_Cell systems are counted, while the contribution of single factor hydrogen bond to the damping characteristics of G2/CIIR composite is explored. Finally, the proportion of G2/CIIR composite with optimal damping properties is selected to be 22/100, which contains 6 α‐type hydrogen bonds and 12 β‐type hydrogen bonds. Meanwhile, this CIIR composite shows excellent mechanical properties, as well as its glass transition temperature (Tg) is 223.7845 K. Thus, it is a kind of CIIR composite material with high damping properties and wide application prospects.
Role of Lysosomal Gene Variants in Modulating GBA‐Associated Parkinson's Disease Risk
Authors: Straniero Letizia , Rimoldi Valeria , Monfrini Edoardo , Bonvegna Salvatore , Melistaccio Giada , Lake Julie , Soldà Giulia , Aureli Massimo , Shankaracharya  , Keagle Pamela , Foroud Tatiana , Landers John E. , Blauwendraat Cornelis , Zecchinelli Anna , Cilia Roberto , Di Fonzo Alessio , Pezzoli Gianni , Duga Stefano , Asselta Rosanna
Published: March 2022

Background

To date, variants in the GBA gene represent the most frequent large‐effect genetic factor associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the reason why individuals with the same GBA variant may or may not develop neurodegeneration and PD is still unclear.

Objectives

Therefore, we evaluated the contribution of rare variants in genes responsible for lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) to GBA‐PD risk, comparing the burden of deleterious variants in LSD genes in PD patients versus asymptomatic subjects, all carriers of deleterious variants in GBA.

Methods

We used a custom next‐generation sequencing panel, including 50 LSD genes, to screen 305 patients and 207 controls (discovery cohort). Replication and meta‐analysis were performed in two replication cohorts of GBA‐variant carriers, of 250 patients and 287 controls, for whom exome or genome data were available.

Results

Statistical analysis in the discovery cohort revealed a significantly increased burden of deleterious variants in LSD genes in patients (P = 0.0029). Moreover, our analyses evidenced that the two strongest modifiers of GBA penetrance are a second variation in GBA (5.6% vs. 1.4%, P = 0.023) and variants in genes causing mucopolysaccharidoses (6.9% vs. 1%, P = 0.0020). These results were confirmed in the meta‐analysis, where we observed pooled odds ratios of 1.42 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10–1.83, P = 0.0063), 4.36 (95% CI = 2.02–9.45, P = 0.00019), and 1.83 (95% CI = 1.04–3.22, P = 0.038) for variants in LSD genes, GBA, and mucopolysaccharidosis genes, respectively.

Conclusion

The identification of genetic lesions in lysosomal genes increasing PD risk may have important implications in terms of patient stratification for future therapeutic trials. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson Movement Disorder Society.