bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using competing stimuli with an adult with stereotypic skin picking: A case study of assessment, treatment, and generalization
Authors: Jeglum Sara R. , Luehring Mathew C. , Kurtz Patricia F.
Published: February 2022

The competing stimulus assessment (CSA) is used to identify stimuli that are associated with high levels of engagement and low levels of problem behavior. However, few studies have used CSA results for adults with problem behavior. The goal of this study was to expand on previous literature by targeting an adult's self‐injurious skin picking, while incorporating caregivers into treatment and examining reduction maintenance. Noelle was a 27‐year‐old female diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability referred to an intensive outpatient clinic. Functional assessment results suggested that skin picking was maintained by automatic reinforcement. Treatment included noncontingent access to competing stimuli identified via a CSA with response disruption and response promotion tactics. This intervention reduced skin picking to near zero rates, was effectively implemented by caregivers, and treatment gains were maintained over 5 months. Limitations and future considerations for behavior reduction procedures with adults are discussed.
Comparative genomic and transcriptomic analysis guides to further enhance the biosynthesis of erythromycin by an overproducer
Authors: Li Xiaobo , Ke Xiang , Qiao Lijia , Sui Yufei , Chu Ju
Published: February 2022

Omics approaches have been applied to understand the boosted productivity of natural products by industrial high‐producing microorganisms. Here, with the updated genome sequence and transcriptomic profiles derived from high‐throughput sequencing, we exploited comparative omics analysis to further enhance the biosynthesis of erythromycin in an industrial overproducer, Saccharopolyspora erythraea HL3168 E3. By comparing the genome of E3 with the wild type NRRL23338, we identified fragment deletions inside 56 coding sequences and 255 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms over the genome of E3. A substantial number of genomic variations were observed in genes responsible for pathways which were interconnected to the biosynthesis of erythromycin by supplying precursors/cofactors or by signal transduction. Furthermore, the transcriptomic data suggested that genes involved in the biosynthesis of erythromycin were significantly upregulated constantly, whereas some genes in biosynthesis clusters of other secondary metabolites contained nonsense mutations and were expressed at extremely low levels. Through comparative transcriptomic analysis, l‐glutamine/l‐glutamate and 2‐oxoglutarate were identified as reporter metabolites. Around the node of 2‐oxoglutarate, genomic mutations were also observed. Based on the omics association analysis, readily available strategies were proposed to engineer E3 by simultaneously overexpressing sucB (coding for 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase E2 component) and sucA (coding for 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase E1 component), which increased the erythromycin titer by 71% compared to E3 in batch culture. This study provides more promising molecular targets to engineer for enhanced production of erythromycin by the overproducer.
BioSin UFMG Club: Engaging a multilevel and multidisciplinary community in synthetic biology
Authors: Gervásio João , Sampaio Yala , Muniz Paulo , Yamada Camila , Felicori Liza F.
Published: February 2022

Learning synthetic biology is often seen as a far distant possibility, restricted to those who have the privilege of an academic career. We propose a student‐centered discussion group around synthetic biology, aimed at people from high school onwards with different backgrounds to interact and learn about synthetic biology. We developed a 14‐week long program with three modules: “Leveling,” “Introducing,” and “Discussion.” By completing the first two modules, the members should be more comfortable with biological names, structures, concepts, and techniques. The modules developed are available in Portuguese, Spanish, and English via the Open Lab Idea Real website (https://ideareal.org/clube-de-biologia-sintetica/) and can be used to implement the Club either in place or virtually around the world. We put it to practice at Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) creating the Club named BioSin. There are programs such as the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition focused on disseminating synthetic biology. Although iGEM is one fantastic way of learning about synthetic biology, there is a high cost. Because of that, a study and discussion Club is a tool to spread knowledge and engage with the study area.
Toward optimal clearance: A universal affinity‐based mass spectrometry approach for comprehensive ELISA reagent coverage evaluation and HCP hitchhiker analysis
Authors: Seisenberger Christina , Graf Tobias , Haindl Markus , Wegele Harald , Wiedmann Michael , Wohlrab Stefanie
Published: February 2022

In the control strategy for process related impurities in biopharmaceuticals, the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is the method of choice for the quantification of host cell proteins (HCPs). Besides two dimensional‐western blots (2D‐WB), the coverage of ELISA antibodies is increasingly evaluated by affinity purification‐based liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (AP‐MS) methods. However, all these methods face the problem of unspecific binding issues between antibodies and the matrix, involving the application of arbitrarily defined thresholds during data evaluation. To solve this, a new approach (optimized AP‐MS) was developed in this study, for which a cleavable linker was conjugated to the ELISA antibodies enabling the subsequent isolation of specifically interacting HCPs. By comparing both approaches in terms of method variability and the number of false positive or negative hits, we could demonstrate that the optimized AP‐MS method is very reproducible and superior in the identification of antibody detection gaps, while previously described strategies suffered from over‐ or underestimating the coverage. As only antibody associated HCPs were identified, we demonstrated that the method is beneficial for hitchhiker analysis. Overall, the method described herein has proven as a powerful tool for reliable coverage determination of ELISA antibodies, without the need to arbitrarily exclude HCPs during the coverage evaluation.
Identification of CXCL5 expression as a predictive biomarker associated with response and prognosis of immunotherapy in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Deng Jie , Ma Xuejiao , Ni Yang , Li Xiaomin , Xi Wenjing , Tian Minqi , Zhang Xing , Xiang Manyu , Deng Wanglong , Song Chao , Wu Hao
Published: February 2022

Background

The breakthrough of immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, only a limited part of patients could derive clinical benefits. To study how immune microenvironment (IME) of patients could influence the therapeutic efficacy of immunotherapy, we evaluated the response patterns of NSCLC patients treated with PD‐1 inhibitors and analyzed the molecules related to prognosis and efficacy of immunotherapy.

Methods

Tumor samples were collected from 47 NSCLC patients treated with PD‐1 inhibitors. RNA expressions of tumor immune‐related 289 genes were analyzed using NanoString nCounter. Immune infiltration and correlation between clinical information and expression of immune‐related genes were assessed.

Results

Unsupervised clustering analysis revealed two groups infiltrated with different immune cells and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) including CXCL5, CXCL9, IDO1, and LAG3 were found between groups. Stratification based on DEGs indicated that the group with high expression of CXCL5 was characterized by neutrophils. Univariate and multivariate Cox analysis further demonstrated that CXCL5 mRNA expression was positively associated with worse progression free survival (PFS). Logistic analyses indicated high CXCL5 was associated with worse response to immunotherapy.

Conclusions

CXCL5 may be a potential biomarker for prognosis and responsiveness to immunotherapy and may be a novel preventive and therapeutic target for NSCLC.
Understanding the psychosocial impact of colorectal cancer on young‐onset patients: A scoping review
Authors: Khoo Athena Ming‐Gui , Lau Jerrald , Loh Xin‐Sheng , Ng Celeste Wen‐Ting , Griva Konstadina , Tan Ker‐Kan
Published: February 2022

Objective

The incidence of young‐onset (<50 years) colorectal cancer (CRC) has been increasing internationally. The psychosocial experience of younger cancer patients is vastly different from older patients, especially in domains such as financial toxicity, body image, and sexual dysfunction. What is unknown is the cancer type‐specific experience. The aim of the current scoping review was to examine (1) the psychosocial factors and/or outcomes associated with young‐onset CRC and (2) other determinants that influences these outcomes.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on four databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus and PsycINFO) from inception to December 2020 using key terms and combinations. Primary literature that examined the psychosocial (e.g., quality‐of‐life, emotional, social, sexual) impact of young‐onset CRC were included.

Results

A total of 1389 records were assessed by four reviewers, with a total of seven studies meeting inclusion criteria (n = 5 quantitative, n = 1 qualitative and n = 1 case series). All studies indicated there was significant psychosocial impact in younger CRC patients, including emotional impact, social impact, physical burden, sexual impact, work impact, unmet needs, financial impact and global quality of life. Three studies explored other determinants that influenced the psychosocial experience and found that socioeconomic background (e.g., being female, lower education), CRC treatment (e.g., chemotherapy) and health status were associated with worse psychosocial impact.

Conclusions

Young‐onset CRC patients face severe psychosocial impact unique to this age group, such as self‐image and sexual impact. Social support services and resources needs to be uniquely tailored. More empirical investigations are required to understand its long‐term impact and influence of other psychosocial domains.
Multi‐omics data identified TP53 and LRP1B as key regulatory gene related to immune phenotypes via EPCAM in HCC
Authors: Shi Liang , Cao Jie , Lei Xin , Shi Yifen , Wu Lili
Published: February 2022

Background

Many studies showed that the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was significantly associated with the expressions of TP53 and LRP1B. However, the potential influence of the two genes on the malignant progression of HCC is still to be expounded.

Methods

According to the correlation analysis between immune cells and expression levels of TP53 and LRP1B, we filtered the immune cells to perform unsupervised clustering analysis. Integration of multi‐omic data analysis identified genetic alteration and epigenetic alteration. In addition, pathway analysis was used to explore the potential function of the differentially expressed mRNAs. According to the differentially expressed genes, we established an interaction network to seek the hub gene. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis was used to build a prognosis model.

Results

The unsupervised clustering analysis showed that the cluster A1 showed the highest immune cell levels and the cluster B2 showed the lowest immune cell levels. Multi‐omics data analysis identified that somatic mutations, copy number variations, and DNA methylation levels had significant differences between cluster A1 and cluster B2. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis found that the upregulated mRNAs in the cluster A1 were mainly concentrated in T cell activation, external side of plasma membrane, receptor ligand activity, and cytokine−cytokine receptor interaction. Importantly, the EPCAM was identified as a critical node in the lncRNAs–miRNAs–mRNAs regulatory network correlated with the immune phenotypes. In addition, based on differentially expressed genes between cluster A1 and cluster B2, the prognostic model established by LASSO could predict the overall survival (OS) of HCC accurately.

Conclusions

The results indicated that the TP53 and LRP1B acted as the key genes in regulating the immune phenotypes of HCC via EPCAM.
The effects of noise‐induced hair cell lesions on cochlear electromechanical responses: A computational approach using a biophysical model
Authors: Saremi Amin , Stenfelt Stefan
Published: February 2022

A biophysically inspired signal processing model of the human cochlea is deployed to simulate the effects of specific noise‐induced inner hair cell (IHC) and outer hair cell (OHC) lesions on hearing thresholds, cochlear compression, and the spectral and temporal features of the auditory nerve (AN) coding. The model predictions were evaluated by comparison with corresponding data from animal studies as well as human clinical observations. The hearing thresholds were simulated for specific OHC and IHC damages and the cochlear nonlinearity was assessed at 0.5 and 4 kHz. The tuning curves were estimated at 1 kHz and the contributions of the OHC and IHC pathologies to the tuning curve were distinguished by the model. Furthermore, the phase locking of AN spikes were simulated in quiet and in presence of noise. The model predicts that the phase locking drastically deteriorates in noise indicating the disturbing effect of background noise on the temporal coding in case of hearing impairment. Moreover, the paper presents an example wherein the model is inversely configured for diagnostic purposes using a machine learning optimization technique (Nelder–Mead method). Accordingly, the model finds a specific pattern of OHC lesions that gives the audiometric hearing loss measured in a group of noise‐induced hearing impaired humans.
Newly developed sugarbeet lines with altered postharvest respiration rates differ in transcription factor and glycolytic enzyme expression
Authors: Fugate Karen K. , Campbell Larry G. , Lafta Abbas M. , Eide John D. , Khan Mohamed F. R. , Chu Chenggen , Finger Fernando L.
Published: February 2022

Respiration is the principal cause for postharvest sucrose loss in sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.) roots. Although reductions in respiration rate could mitigate these losses, developing sugarbeet cultivars and storage procedures that reduce respiration are hindered by a lack of knowledge of the genetic and metabolic factors that control storage respiration rate. Research was conducted to identify genes and gene products that affect storage respiration rate by creating two sugarbeet lines that differ in respiration rate and characterizing gene expression differences between these lines. Sugarbeet lines F1056 and F1057, which differ by up to 42% in respiration rate, were created by divergent selection of a sugarbeet population using root respiration rate after 30 d in storage as the principal selection criterion. RNA sequencing identified 287 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between these lines on the day of harvest and after 28‐d storage. Of these DEGs, nine encoded transcription factors and five encoded enzymes involved in the respiratory pathway. Other DEGs contributed to a variety of biological and molecular functions based on gene ontology classifications. Of respiratory pathway DEGS, genes for NAD+‐ and NADP+‐dependent forms of glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase were of note due to their high upregulation in the high respiring line and for their established role in glycolysis, a pathway identified as a likely bottleneck in respiratory substrate production. Overall, lines F1056 and F1057 provide new tools for investigating genetic and physiological differences in storage respiration rate, and their DEGs identify candidates for genes affecting sugarbeet root respiration rate.
FPGA simulation of chaotic tent map‐based S‐Box design
Authors: Türk Ömer
Published: February 2022

The chaotic system has a characteristically random behavior by nature, and these systems have their own characteristics in a completely deterministic structure. This feature of a chaotic system makes it difficult to predict encryptions designed based on such a system. Thanks to this unpredictable and strong feature, maps produced from chaotic systems are an important alternative in the field of encryption. One of the structures obtained by employing chaotic maps is the substitution box. S‐Box, which provides the confusion principle used in block ciphers, is the main block that dynamically replaces unencrypted data with confidential data and makes a significant contribution to ensuring high security in the encryption system. Therefore, S‐Boxes hold a critical role in block ciphers. Speed and reliability are important parameters in the creation of this main block. Especially, applications performed on hardware are more reliable and high performance. Therefore, in this study, an S‐Box was designed using field‐programmable gate arrays (FPGA) simulation from a chaotic tent map to create a fast and reliable S‐Box because FPGAs offer solutions that may be important in this field considering their fast and customizable architecture. In the proposed method, the S‐Box was created in 0.16 s. In addition, the dynamic properties of the chaotic tent map were analyzed with Lyapunov exponents, and the NIST SP 800‐22 test was applied for the information encryption suitability of the proposed chaotic system. Also, to test the reliability of the produced S‐Box structures, SAC, non‐linearity, bit independence criteria, and input/output XOR distribution table metrics were implemented. The results showed that the proposed chaotic map was dynamic and passed the reliability tests successfully.
Ion temperature anisotropy model with cross‐field drifts in the scrape‐off layer
Authors: Zhao Menglong , Rognlien Tom , Jarvinen Aaro , Joseph Ilon , Umansky Maxim
Published: February 2022

An ion temperature anisotropy model including cross‐field drifts has been implemented in the 2D transport code UEDGE. Two ion temperature equations are solved in the model to give separate ion temperatures perpendicular and parallel to the magnetic field, which results in an additional mirror force for ion parallel transport and also leads to an additional curvature drift in the perpendicular direction. In our previous work, an ion temperature anisotropy model was implemented and applied to the full 2D version of UEDGE including recycled neutrals. The simulation results showed that the mirror force due to anisotropy reduces ion parallel flow velocity, however, the simulations were presented without cross‐field electric and magnetic drifts. Nevertheless, in present medium‐size tokamaks or future compact fusion devices, cross‐fields are important. In this work, the anisotropy model is extended to be compatible with the inclusion of cross‐field drifts. Preliminary results on comparison between the model solutions with and without cross‐field drifts are presented.
Bifurcation types and dynamic control of dust ion‐acoustic waves propagation in dusty plasmas with non‐thermal electrons
Authors: Alinejad Hassan
Published: February 2022

The bifurcation types and phase portraits of non‐linear dust ion‐acoustic travelling waves are studied in a dusty plasma comprising warm adiabatic ions, non‐thermal electrons and stationary cold dust species. A dynamical system is derived for the plasma waves evolution, and then the bifurcation response is determined on the equilibrium points‐non‐thermal parameter plane. It is shown that the motion dynamics of travelling waves undergoes a transcritical as well as saddle‐node bifurcations for the critical values of energetic electrons. We indicate that a sudden emergence and transition between solitary waves and non‐linear periodic waves occur at the critical point of transcritical bifurcation. For the saddle‐node bifurcation, we show that both solitary and super‐nonlinear periodic waves disappear, and only a large amplitude periodic wave can propagate in plasma. Further, the coexistence of solitary waves, non‐linear and super‐nonlinear waves are investigated for different values of plasma parameters. The results obtained here could be applicable to different space and astrophysical plasma systems, particularly in Saturn's E‐ring.
Myocardial oedema: pathophysiological basis and implications for the failing heart
Authors: Vasques‐Nóvoa Francisco , Angélico‐Gonçalves António , Alvarenga José M.G. , Nobrega João , Cerqueira Rui J. , Mancio Jennifer , Leite‐Moreira Adelino F. , Roncon‐Albuquerque Roberto
Published: February 2022

Myocardial fluid homeostasis relies on a complex interplay between microvascular filtration, interstitial hydration, cardiomyocyte water uptake and lymphatic removal. Dysregulation of one or more of these mechanisms may result in myocardial oedema. Interstitial and intracellular fluid accumulation disrupts myocardial architecture, intercellular communication, and metabolic pathways, decreasing contractility and increasing myocardial stiffness. The widespread use of cardiac magnetic resonance enabled the identification of myocardial oedema as a clinically relevant imaging finding with prognostic implications in several types of heart failure. Furthermore, growing experimental evidence has contributed to a better understanding of the physical and molecular interactions in the microvascular barrier, myocardial interstitium and lymphatics and how they might be disrupted in heart failure. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the factors controlling myocardial water balance in the healthy and failing heart and pinpoint the new potential therapeutic avenues.
Crown‐Ether‐Based Cryptands with Rarely Strong Affinities for Binding Neutral Organic Molecules
Authors: Tan Yanyan , Pan Shaowu , Zhang Shilong , Fang Lin , Zhang Feichun , Zhang Yuanyuan , Jiang Lasheng
Published: February 2022

Herein, we present the syntheses of two new crown‐ether‐based cryptands and their complexation behaviors with neutral organic molecules. The interactions between4/5andG1/G2were fast exchange systems forming pseudorotaxane‐like complexes with a 1 : 1 stoichiometric ratio. The association constant (Ka) of “long‐armed” cryptand5withG2was even up to 2.5×105 M−1, which is 10 to 103 times higher than the previously reported host‐neutral guest system to the best of our knowledge. Such a largeKais even comparable to that of reported cryptands with secondary ammonium salts and paraquat derivatives. Thorough studies demonstrated that excellent spatial fitting and multi non‐covalent interactions (H‐bonding and π–π stacking) are essential for such a largeKa.
Enhanced Storage and Interface Structure Stability of NCM811 Cathodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries by Hydrophobic Fluoroalkylsilanes Modification
Authors: Xue Xiaoyin , Zhao Yin , Yuan Shuai , Shi Liyi , Sun Xiaoying , Wang Zhuyi , Zhu Jiefang
Published: February 2022

The nickel‐rich ternary‐layered oxide LiNixCoyMn(1−x−y)O2 (NCM) cathode exhibits high reversible capacity and low cost; however, severe capacity fade and aggravated air degradation prohibit its widespread commercialization. Herein, the hydrophobic fluoroalkylsilane‐modified NCM811 cathode materials are reported. To better understand the effects of electrochemical properties of lithium‐ion batteries, a variety of characterization techniques and electrochemical methods are utilized to study the surface chemistry at the cathode/electrolyte interphase. The hydrophobic fluoroalkylsilanes‐grafted NCM811 cathode materials suppress the formation of residual lithium even after 30 days in humid air. The fluoroalkylsilanes layer can also provide chemical stabilization to the NCM811 cathode materials by anchoring transition metals (TM) and suppressing TM dissolution during long immersion times in electrolytes. Moreover, the degree of improvement depends on the structure of the fluoroalkylsilanes, such as the number of F groups and the length of carbon chains. As a result, FAS17‐modified NCM811 cathode materials after 30‐day humid air exposure (humidity 70%) exhibit the greatest overall capacity retention of 74.2% after 200 charge/discharge cycles.
Influence of landscape moisture sources and topography on rock weathering patterns associated with wildfire
Authors: Mol Lisa , Grenfell Michael
Published: February 2022

From 9 March 2015, a wildfire burned an area of 25.7 km2, or approximately half of the Jonkershoek catchment (Western Cape, South Africa), over the course of 3 days. During this period, large areas of fynbos and commercial forest plantations were razed, and rocks, including boulders and smaller rocks, were exposed to high temperatures. While a substantial body of work has been carried out to investigate the effects of wildfire on landscape development, less is known about the effect of wildfire on rock weathering within a landscape. Previous studies have reported the overall effect of wildfire on rock deterioration, but the effect of intra‐fire temperature differences associated with heat behaviour on a slope has not been sufficiently addressed. In this study we investigate the effects of topography and proximity to moisture on rock deterioration processes. In particular, we focus on the use of in‐field rock deterioration measurements and GIS to investigate the relative influences of distance from burn source, distance from moisture source and topographical positioning of the sample site. The results indicate that boulder size and lithology are of secondary importance to the placement of fire‐affected rocks within the wider topography of the landscape, and that rock exposure to moisture, also a function of landscape position, is likely to exacerbate the response of the rocks to heat. No direct correlation was observed between the type and severity of the outwardly visible damage sustained on the sampled rocks, and the size, lithology or proximity to burn source. We argue that these findings call for a re‐evaluation of fire‐related damage in the wider context of rock response as a function of topographical variations.
A traceable privacy‐aware data publishing platform on permissioned blockchain
Authors: Li Fengyin , Sun Xueqing , Liu Peiyu , Li Xiao , Cui Yang , Wang Xiaojiao
Published: February 2022

The data publishing platform based on blockchain has advantages of decentralization, anti‐tampering function, and distributed storage. However, privacy leakage, untraceability, and the data tampering cannot be addressed. In order to solve these problems, this article proposes an aggregation signature scheme based on the bilinear mapping, and proposes a traceable privacy‐aware data publishing platform by applying the aggregation signature scheme to the data publishing platform on permissioned blockchain. Performance analysis shows that the traceable privacy‐aware data publishing platform reduces the communication cost, improves the efficiency of signature verification and transmission, provides the anonymity and traceability for the users in the platform.
Federated learning and next generation wireless communications: A survey on bidirectional relationship
Authors: Shome Debaditya , Waqar Omer , Khan Wali Ullah
Published: February 2022

In order to meet the extremely heterogeneous requirements of the next generation wireless communication networks, research community is increasingly dependent on using machine‐learning solutions for real‐time decision‐making and radio resource management. Traditional machine learning employs fully centralized architecture in which the entire training data is collected at one node for example, cloud server, that significantly increases the communication overheads and also raises severe privacy concerns. Toward this end, a distributed machine‐learning paradigm termed as federated learning (FL) has been proposed recently. In FL, each participating edge device trains its local model by using its own training data. Then, via the wireless channels the weights or parameters of the locally trained models are sent to the central parameter server (PS), that aggregates them and updates the global model. On one hand, FL plays an important role for optimizing the resources of wireless communication networks, on the other hand, wireless communications is crucial for FL. Thus, a “bidirectional” relationship exists between FL and wireless communications. Although FL is an emerging concept, many publications have already been published in the domain of FL and its applications for next generation wireless networks. Nevertheless, we noticed that none of the works have highlighted the bidirectional relationship between FL and wireless communications. Therefore, the purpose of this survey article is to bridge this gap in literature by providing a timely and comprehensive discussion on the interdependency between FL and wireless communications.
Zebrafish obesogenic test identifies anti‐adipogenic fraction in Moringa oreifera leaf extracts
Authors: Matsuoka Izumi , Hata Kanae , Katsuzaki Hirotaka , Nakayama Hiroko , Zang Liqing , Ota Mizuho , Kim Youngil , Chu Djong‐Chi , Juneja Lekh Raj , Nishimura Norihiro , Shimada Yasuhito
Published: February 2022

The zebrafish obesogenic test (ZOT) is a powerful tool for identifying anti‐adipogenic compounds for in vivo screening. In our previous study, we found that Moringa oleifera (MO) leaf powder suppressed the accumulation of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in ZOT. MO demonstrates a wide range of pharmacological effects; however, little is known about its functional constituents. To identify the anti‐adipogenic components of MO leaves, we prepared extracts using different extraction methods and tested the obtained extracts and fractions using ZOT. We found that the dichloromethane extract and its hexane:EtOAc = 8:2 fraction reduced VAT accumulation in young zebrafish fed a high‐fat diet. We also performed gene expression analysis in the zebrafish VAT and found that CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein beta and CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein delta (associated with early stages of adipogenesis) gene expression was downregulated after fraction 2 administration. We identified a new MO fraction that suppressed VAT accumulation by inhibiting early adipogenesis using the ZOT. Phenotype‐driven zebrafish screening is a reasonable strategy for identifying bioactive components in natural products.
Nurse managers leadership styles and intention to stay among nurses at the unit in Ghana
Authors: Ofei Adelaide Maria Ansah , Paarima Yennuten
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Enabling effective leadership is significant in contemporary healthcare delivery. Nurse Managers' (NMs) leadership styles are a major predictor of nurses' retention. Using the ‘Full Range Leadership’ model as the organising framework, this study explored NMs leadership styles and their influence on intention to stay among nurses in Ghana.

Methods

A quantitative cross‐sectional design using the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ‐5x), was used to explore nurses' intention to stay at their current workplace. Data were collected from 348 nurses in 38 selected hospitals and analysed using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression.

Results

NMs exhibited different leadership styles based on the circumstance, but mostly used a participative leadership style, followed by transformational and transactional leadership styles. Nurses showed a high level of intention to stay. The intention to stay at the current workplace was high (3.26 out of 4) among nurses. The findings show that 85.6% of the nurses had intended to stay. The leadership styles of NMs jointly predicted 20.9% of the variance in intention to stay among nurses.

Conclusion

Regular in‐service training programs in leadership is critical for NMs to strengthen their leadership skills. NMs should be encouraged to widely use participative leadership styles to foster inclusiveness of staff in the unit.
Comparing headwater stream thermal sensitivity across two distinct regions in Northern California
Authors: Wissler Austin D. , Segura Catalina , Bladon Kevin D.
Published: February 2022

Thermal regimes in headwater streams are critical for freshwater ecological condition and habitat resilience to disturbance, and to inform sustainable forest management. However, stream temperatures vary depending on characteristics of the stream, catchment, or region. To improve our knowledge of stream thermal regimes, we collected stream and air temperature data along eight headwater streams in two regions in Northern California. Five streams were in the Coast Range, which is characterized by permeable sandstone lithology, rain dominated precipitation regime, and dense coast redwood forests. Three streams were in the Cascade Range, which is characterized by fractured and resistant basalt lithology, snow dominated precipitation, and low to moderate density pine forests. We instrumented each stream with 12 stream temperature and four air temperature sensors during summer 2018. We compared stream thermal regimes and thermal sensitivity—slope of the linear regression between daily stream and air temperature—within and between study regions. Mean daily stream temperatures were ~4.7°C warmer in the Coast Range but were less variable (SD = 0.7°C) compared to the Cascade Range (SD = 2.3°C). Median thermal sensitivity was 0.33°C °C−1 in the Coast Range and 0.23°C °C−1 in the Cascade Range. We posit that the volcanic lithology underlying the Cascade streams likely supported discrete groundwater discharge locations of cold snowmelt water, which dampened thermal sensitivity. At locations of apparent groundwater discharge in these streams, median stream temperatures rapidly decreased by 2.0–7.0°C relative to locations 70–90 m upstream. In contrast, thin friable soils in the Coast Range likely contributed warmer, rain dominated baseflow from shallow subsurface sources, which strongly co‐varied with air temperature and generally warmed downstream (up to 2.1°C km−1). Our study revealed distinct longitudinal thermal regimes in streams with contrasting lithology, precipitation regimes, and stand densities suggesting that streams in these different regions may respond differentially to forest disturbances or climate change.
Using stable isotopes to investigate differences of plant water sources in subalpine habitats
Authors: Zhang Fuhua , Jia Wenxiong , Zhu Guofeng , Zhang Zhiyuan , Shi Yang , Yang Le , Xiong Hui , Zhang Miaomiao
Published: February 2022

Located along the northeastern edge of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau in China, the Qilian Mountains are an important ecological barrier in Northwest China. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the plant water sources in subalpine habitats for understanding the ecological and hydrological processes in the Qilian Mountains. Here, based on the samples of precipitation, xylem water, soil water, river water, and spring water collected during May–October 2019 from subalpine habitats on the northern slope of the Qilian Mountains and the measured hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope values (δ2H and δ18O, respectively), the present study gained further insight into plant water sources in this region using the IsoSource model. Water absorption characteristics of shrubs were similar in subalpine habitats. Specifically, plants absorbed water primarily from the topsoil layer (0–30 cm) and rarely from the deep soil layers. Nevertheless, in the dry and growing seasons with high water demand, subalpine shrubs competed for water resources at similar depths. As a result of this competition, the utilization rate of deep soil water improved in some shrubs, expanding the differences in water sources of subalpine shrubs within the same habitat. In addition, in the dry and growing seasons, the water sources of the same subalpine shrub varied across different habitats. Compared with other subalpine shrubs, Salix cupularis Rehder, Salix oritrepha Schneid., Potentilla fruticosa L., Salix sclerophylla Anderss., Rhododendron anthopogonoides Maxim., and Rhododendron przewalskii Maxim. could alter their water use strategies with variations in water conditions, exhibiting a greater drought tolerance. These findings provide valuable information for understanding the subalpine region's eco‐hydrological processes and contribute to the selection of suitable species for the restoration of the subalpine ecological environment under the background of global change.
A data accuracy evaluation strategy to improve the representation of potential pesticide use areas for endangered species assessments
Authors: Frank Ashlea , Ghebremichael Lula , Duzy Leah , Jones Chad , Brain Richard , Burd Tony
Published: February 2022

The use of “best available data” is a fundamental requirement for all scientific forms of analysis. This paper discusses ways to improve the accuracy of data used to evaluate the potential impacts of pesticides on species that are listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) by ensuring the best available spatial data representing pesticide use sites are applied correctly. A decision matrix is presented that uses accuracy information from metadata contained in the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) Cropland Data Layer (CDL) and the Census of Agriculture (CoA) to improve how labeled pesticide use sites are spatially delineated. We suggest recommendations for the current pesticide evaluation process used by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and subsequently by the US Fish and Wildlife Services and National Marine Fisheries Service (collectively known as the Services) in Section 7 consultation activities. The decision matrix is applied to each cultivated land layer in the USDA's CDL with recommendations for how best to use each layer in the evaluation process. Application of this decision matrix will lead to improved representation of labeled uses and more accurate overlap calculations used in the assessment of potential impacts of pesticides on endangered species. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:1655–1666. © 2022 SETAC

KEY POINTS

This paper discusses ways to improve the accuracy of data used to evaluate the potential impacts of pesticides on species that are “listed” as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act by ensuring the best available spatial data representing pesticide use sites are applied correctly. A decision matrix is presented that uses accuracy information from metadata contained in US Department of Agriculture's Cropland Data Layer and the Census of Agriculture to improve how labeled pesticide use sites are spatially delineated.
High serum exosomal long non‐coding RNA DANCR expression confers poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Shi Wenbiao , Jin Xiaoyan , Wang Yuanfan , Zhang Qiang , Yang Linjun
Published: February 2022

Background

Exosomal long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serve as excellent candidate biomarkers for clinical applications. The expression of differentiation antagonizing non‐protein coding RNA (DANCR) has been shown to be decreased in breast cancer (BC) tissues and cell lines. However, the clinical value of circulating exosomal DANCR in BC has not been explored.

Methods

A total of 120 BC patients, 70 benign breast disease (BBD) patients, and 105 healthy women were recruited in this study. Total RNA was extracted from serum samples, and the level of serum exosomal lncRNA DANCR was evaluated by quantitative real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR).

Results

Serum exosomal lncRNA DANCR levels were significantly higher in BC patients than in BBD patients and normal controls. The diagnostic performance of serum exosomal lncRNA DANCR was good, and the combination of serum exosomal lncRNA DANCR, CA153, and CEA greatly improved the diagnostic accuracy for BC. High serum exosomal lncRNA DANCR level was associated with various clinicopathological variables including lymph node metastasis, ER status, HER2 status, and TNM stage. In addition, the BC patients in the high serum exosomal lncRNA DANCR expression group had significantly shorter 5‐year overall survival time. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that serum exosomal lncRNA DANCR was an independent risk factor for BC.

Conclusion

Serum exosomal lncRNA DANCR may be a useful non‐invasive biomarker for the clinical diagnosis and prognosis of BC.
Preparation of chemically stable allergen‐specific sublingual immunotherapy from Egyptian allergens
Authors: Abu El‐Enin Mohammed A. , Rabie Shehab El‐Din Eman M. , Abdelwahab Heba Wagih , Abd El‐Maksoud Amina , Abd El‐Aziz Abeer M. , Shaaban Mona I. , Attia Ahmed Nader , Aboukamar Wafaa A. , Mohei‐Aldin Sanaa , Belal Fathalla
Published: February 2022

Background

The term “allergen extracts” refers to solutions of proteins or glycoproteins extracted from source raw materials.

Objectives

This study was planned to prepare chemically stable sublingual immunotherapy from different allergens in Egypt.

Methods

Allergen extraction from raw materials. The concentrated aqueous extract of each allergen was mixed with an equal volume of glycerol. The protein content of the preparations was determined using the modified Lowry assay method. The prepared allergens were stored for 9 months at 2–4°C. Samples were analyzed periodically (0, 3, 6, and 9 months of intervals) adopting the Lowry Assay method. Levels of specific IgE to Chenopodium album antigens were measured in patients’ sera by ELISA.

Results

The concentration of all prepared allergens, as indicated by the concentration of the protein content, was found to decrease exponentially with time, implying first‐order kinetics of degradation. From the values of the slopes of the log plot for each allergen, the half‐life time (t1/2) and (t1/4) values were calculated. The expiration date was considered as the time after which the allergen loses 25% of its potency. The obtained values of t1/4% vary according to the type of vaccine. The most stable one is that of Chenopodium album pollens (2.4 years) and the least stable is that of house dust Mites (9 months). The immunological characters of Chenopodium album extract were stable for at least 6 months.

Conclusion

Differences exist among allergen extracts made by multiple manufacturers. So, developments in studies on allergen preparation and characterization in a different locality are necessary.
Moderating effects of brooding on the link between functional impairment and interpersonal needs in survivors of serious trauma
Authors: Kozina Ryan M. , Lear M. Kati , Stacy Stephanie , Kern Shira , Ripley Adam , Clapp Joshua
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Trauma and resulting functional limitations demonstrate associations with perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, factors contributing to elevated risk for suicidal ideation. However, survivors display differential risk in response to impairment, highlighting the need for research on exacerbating factors. The current study examined the impact of brooding on the association of functional impairment with burdensomeness and belongingness among trauma‐exposed undergraduates (N = 262).

Method

Trauma was assessed via clinical interview with questionnaires for study variables. Regression models examined the unique and interactive effects of physical impairment, emotional impairment, and brooding on burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness.

Results

An interaction of brooding and impairment due to emotional difficulties was observed for burdensomeness with impairment linked to elevated burdensomeness at high (β = −0.46;p < 0.001), but not low (β = −0.07;p = 0.476) brooding. Impairment due to emotional difficulties (β = −0.38;p < 0.001) and brooding (β = 0.25;p < 0.001) were associated with belongingness.

Conclusions

Findings identify brooding as a potential target for assessment and intervention in trauma‐exposed individuals.
Equitable Mindfulness: The practice of mindfulness for all
Authors: G. Bautista Tara , A. Cash Tiara , Meyerhoefer Terence , Pipe Teri
Published: February 2022

The benefits of mindfulness are well‐documented; however, these benefits may not be evenly distributed across communities. Equitable Mindfulness aims to make these benefits accessible to a wider and more inclusive audience. The aim of this study was to investigate the applicability of Equitable Mindfulness and systemic barriers that prevent mindfulness programs from being equitably accessed across communities. Twenty‐one participants were recruited for qualitative in‐depth interviews during a 2‐day mindfulness conference. The constant comparison method was used to iteratively identify and categorize themes that emerged within and across interviews. Five dominant themes emerged from the data as follows: inherent equitability, accessibility, inclusiveness, awareness and knowledge‐sharing, and acknowledgement of multiple perspectives. Having an applicable and meaningful term to use when describing mindfulness as an inclusive and equitable practice can facilitate the exploration of a new area of research. There is a need for future initiatives aimed at making mindfulness trainings and programs more equitable and accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, or abilities/disabilities.
The cognitive processes underlying false beliefs
Authors: Stanley Matthew L. , Whitehead Peter S. , Marsh Elizabeth J.
Published: February 2022

Why do consumers sometimes fall for spurious claims—for example, brain training games that prevent cognitive decline, toning sneakers that sculpt one's body, flower essence that cures depression—and how can consumers protect themselves in the modern world where information is shared quickly and easily? As cognitive scientists, we view this problem through the lens of what we know, more generally, about how people evaluate information for its veracity, and how people update their beliefs. That is, the same processes that support true belief can also encourage people to sometimes believe misleading or false information. Anchoring on the large literature on truth and belief updating allows predictions about consumer behavior; it also highlights possible solutions while casting doubt on other possible responses to misleading communications.
Preparation of biochemical fulvic acid‐modified diatomite and its adsorption characteristics for tetracycline in water
Authors: Gao Ruqin , Pan Lu , Zhu Jiaqi , Li Youyin , Zhang Zichang , Yao Yingli , Liang Heng , Li Guoting
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Diatomite and biochemical fulvic acid were used as raw materials to prepare biochemical fulvic acid‐modified diatomite using by the sol–gel method. The structure and properties of samples were investigated by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, etc. The effects of solution pH and reaction temperature on the adsorption performance of adsorption materials were evaluated by taking tetracycline as the target pollutant. The adsorption kinetics, adsorption rate mechanism and adsorption isotherm of tetracycline were revealed.

RESULTS

The results showed that the main form of diatomite is amorphous SiO2. The surface and channels of diatomite were loaded with biochemical fulvic acid, and the specific surface area of the modified material increased from 9.182 to 13.774 m2 g−1, while the average pore size decreased from 10.972 to 7.15 nm. The pH of the tetracycline solution was 5 and the initial concentration was 20 mg L−1; the adsorption capacity of the modified sample increased 1.93‐fold to 29.84 mg g−1. When the adsorption temperature was increased from 10 to 60 °C, the adsorption capacity of the modified material increased nearly fourfold, reaching 78.8 mg g−1.

CONCLUSION

Quasi‐second‐order reaction kinetics has a correlation coefficient R2 of 0.993, which suggests a good fit to the adsorption process of tetracycline by the modified diatomite. Both Freundlich and Redlich–Peterson adsorption isotherm equations can elucidate the adsorption process of the composites. The adsorption is heterogeneous adsorption on the surface, mainly multi‐layer adsorption and electrostatic attraction adsorption. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).