bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcareous Deposits Formed Under Long‐Term In Situ Cathodic Protection Tests
Authors: Nezgoda Julianne , Leoni Gabriel Batalha , Brasil Simone Louise Delarue Cezar
Published: March 2021

The calcareous deposits formed under commonly applied cathodic protection techniques on coated and uncoated carbon steel samples immersed in Guanabara Bay for 150 days, simulating ships and pipelines, were investigated. Potentials were monitored throughout the analysis, and deposits were examined by visual inspection, optical microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. Beyond calcite, aragonite, and brucite, which are crystals commonly reported in laboratory tests or under confined space conditions, herein, also calcite‐II and calcite‐III were identified as intermediate crystalline structures. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that biological activity also plays an important role, forming calcareous tubular structures within the deposit.
The efficacy of mobile health in alleviating risk factors related to the occurrence and development of coronary heart disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu Yue , Ye Hui , Zhu Yuan , Du Shizheng , Xu Guihua , Wang Qing
Published: March 2021

The association between the efficacy of mobile health and the occurrence and development of coronary heart disease (CHD) is still unclear. Mobile health can alleviate the risk factors for CHD. PubMed, EMbase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, CNKI, WanFang, and VIP databases were searched from inception through May 28, 2020. Randomized controlled trials of the effect of mobile health in alleviating the risk factors of CHD's occurrence and development were included. Risks of bias were assessed by two independent reviewers by using the RevMan 5.3, GRADEpro, and RoB2.0 to generate findings. Meta‐analyses were performed to investigate the effects of mobile health on risk factors for CHD. Subgroup analyses were conducted. Sixteen randomized controlled trials, including 3898 patients with CHD, were included. Meta‐analysis results showed that mobile health can reduce BMI (mean difference [MD] = − 1.24, 95% CI = − 2.02 to − 0.45, p < .05), waist circumference (MD = − 4.40, 95% CI = − 4.72 to − 4.08, p < .00001), total cholesterol (TC) level (MD = − 0.43, 95% CI = − 0.64 to − 0.22, p < 0.00001), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) level (MD = − 0.31, 95% CI = − 0.48 to − 0.15, p < .05), diastolic blood pressure (MD = − 2.01, 95% CI = − 3.40 to − 0.623, p < .05), and depression (MD = − 8.32, 95% CI = − 12.83 to − 3.81, p < .05) and increase high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol level (MD = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.32, p < .05) with statistically significant differences. The results of subgroup analyses indicated that the simple mobile health intervention has more remarkable advantages in reducing BMI, TC, LDL‐C, and systolic blood pressure than the complex mobile health intervention. Mobile health can alleviate the risk factors for CHD and has a certain effect on the prevention and recovery of CHD. Simple mobile health has a remarkable advantage. Limited by the quantity and quality of included studies, future research enrolling high‐quality studies should be taken to verify the above conclusions.
Joint time‐slot and power allocation algorithm for data and energy integrated networks supporting internet of things (IoT)
Authors: Zhang Yitian , Yang Kun , Fan Xinyu
Published: March 2021

IoT is an essential enabler for smart cities and smart society. However, its deployment at large scale faces a big challenge: battery replacement as most IoT devices are battery‐powered or even battery‐less. In a hostile environment, it is infeasible to replace batteries. Radio frequency (RF)‐enable wireless energy transfer (WET) is a promising technology to solve this problem. Since RF is also used for wireless data communication, a data and energy integrated network (DEIN) is the way forward. Based on the DEIN technology, a time allocation model is designed in this paper to manage the RF energy and uplink data transmission in different time slots. In the IoT scenario, the DEIN's primary service is to collect environmental information such as temperature, humidity, and luminance. Therefore, the uplink data transmission of the battery‐powered/battery‐less IoT nodes deserves more attention. To increase the uplink data transmission in case of consuming less energy in the DEIN system, we propose a joint time slot and power allocation algorithm to minimize the system's consumed energy for transmitting per bit of uplink data. It aims to maximize the efficiency of the DEIN system's energy utilization, which helps to achieve an energy‐efficient DEIN.
Balanced wireless sensor networks with energy efficient bees swarm–harmony Search–Hill Climbing mechanism
Authors: Kavitha N. S. , Singaravel G.
Published: March 2021

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are widely employed in various sectors, which include health care, military, automotive, and manufacturing sectors. Most of these applications use WSN with certain limitations in terms of its computational power, storage capability, and energy supply. Among this, energy supply is considered to be a major limitation for these sectors. Therefore, prolonging the lifetime of the network by improving the energy efficiency in WSN is a common objective in many types of research. In this research, the WSN energy efficiency is improved using the data aggregation clustering technique by balancing the energy consumption among the sensor nodes. To balance the energy consumption, an efficient selection of cluster heads is required with faster convergence and an improved search pattern. In accomplishing this, a hybrid architecture that combines Bees Swarm Optimization (BSO) with Harmony Search Algorithm (HSA) is used. The combination of both BSO and HSA tends to achieve premature convergence that leads to poor selection of cluster head. Hence, to increase the optimal and faster convergence, the proposed system uses the Hill Climbing algorithm to reach the optimal solution with faster convergence in a shorter computational time. The experiments are conducted with various node densities between the proposed and existing methods. The result shows that the proposed method is active in improving the search capability in effectively finding the cluster heads for improved routing paths.
Learning deficit in cognitively normal APOE ε4 carriers with LOW β‐amyloid
Authors: Lim Yen Ying , Baker Jenalle E. , Mills Andrea , Bruns Loren , Fowler Christopher , Fripp Jurgen , Rainey‐Smith Stephanie R. , Ames David , Masters Colin L , Maruff Paul
Published: March 2021

Introduction

In cognitively normal (CN) adults, increased rates of amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation can be detected in low Aβ (Aβ–) apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 carriers. We aimed to determine the effect of ε4 on the ability to benefit from experience (ie, learn) in Aβ– CNs.

Methods

Aβ– CNs (n = 333) underwent episodic memory assessments every 18 months for 108 months. A subset (n = 48) completed the Online Repeatable Cognitive Assessment‐Language Learning Test (ORCA‐LLT) over 6 days.

Results

Aβ– ε4 carriers showed significantly lower rates of improvement on episodic memory over 108 months compared to non‐carriers (d = 0.3). Rates of learning on the ORCA‐LLT were significantly slower in Aβ– ε4 carriers compared to non‐carriers (d = 1.2).

Discussion

In Aβ– CNs, ε4 is associated with a reduced ability to benefit from experience. This manifested as reduced practice effects (small to moderate in magnitude) over 108 months on the episodic memory composite, and a learning deficit (large in magnitude) over 6 days on the ORCA‐LLT. Alzheimer's disease (AD)–related cognitive abnormalities can manifest before preclinical AD thresholds.
Tools and approaches for analyzing the role of mitochondria in health, development and disease using human cerebral organoids
Authors: Liput Michał , Magliaro Chiara , Kuczynska Zuzanna , Zayat Valery , Ahluwalia Arti , Buzanska Leonora
Published: March 2021

Mitochondria are cellular organelles involved in generating energy to power various processes in the cell. Although the pivotal role of mitochondria in neurogenesis was demonstrated (first in animal models), very little is known about their role in human embryonic neurodevelopment and its pathology. In this respect human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC)‐derived cerebral organoids provide a tractable, alternative model system of the early neural development and disease that is responsive to pharmacological and genetic manipulations, not possible to apply in humans. Although the involvement of mitochondria in the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases and brain dysfunction has been demonstrated, the precise role they play in cell life and death remains unknown, compromising the development of new mitochondria‐targeted approaches to treat human diseases. The cerebral organoid model of neurogenesis and disease in vitro provides an unprecedented opportunity to answer some of the most fundamental questions about mitochondrial function in early human neurodevelopment and neural pathology. Largely an unexplored territory due to the lack of tools and approaches, this review focuses on recent technological advancements in fluorescent and molecular tools, imaging systems, and computational approaches for quantitative and qualitative analyses of mitochondrial structure and function in three‐dimensional cellular assemblies—cerebral organoids. Future developments in this direction will further facilitate our understanding of the important role or mitochondrial dynamics and energy requirements during early embryonic development. This in turn will provide a further understanding of how dysfunctional mitochondria contribute to disease processes.
Comparative gut content analysis of invasive mosquitofish from Italy and Spain
Authors: Pirroni Sara , de Pennafort Dezen Laura , Santi Francesco , Riesch Rüdiger
Published: March 2021

Eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) are among the most widely introduced freshwater species globally. To gain a better understanding of feeding patterns in non‐native populations, and which local factors may influence them at the population level, we carried out gut content analysis on 163 specimens from nine invasive populations in Italy and Spain. Based on previous studies, we predicted that (a) mosquitofish are omnivores with a preference for detritus and cladocerans; (b) they display size‐ and population‐specific differences in gut morphologies and diet, with larger fish feeding more intensively over a wider range of prey items; and (c) some of the variation would be associated with differences in local environmental and climatic factors. Our results confirmed our first prediction, because mosquitofish fed on a variety of diet items, among which detritus and Cladocera dominated. However, not a single diet item was shared among all populations. Congruent with our second prediction, we further identified size‐ and population‐specific differences in the occurrence of some diet items and gut morphologies. However, observed patterns in dietary habits did not seem to be driven by the environmental and climatic variables we had quantified. The fairly variable diet likely aids invasion success and helps explain the ubiquity of invasive mosquitofish across Italy and Spain, as mosquitofish seem to be able to rely on whatever a local habitat provides. We further propose that size‐specific differences likely capture the substantial sexual size dimorphism (males are smaller than females), while population‐specific differences are likely the result of differences in local prey abundance. The lack of an influence of temperature on dietary habits suggests that mosquitofish feeding ecology may be less impacted by rising temperatures than other freshwater fish species. If true, then this suggests climate change‐induced effects may further exacerbate the competitive superiority of mosquitofish over native species in the future.
A validation scale to determine the readiness of environmental DNA assays for routine species monitoring
Authors: Thalinger Bettina , Deiner Kristy , Harper Lynsey R. , Rees Helen C. , Blackman Rosetta C. , Sint Daniela , Traugott Michael , Goldberg Caren S. , Bruce Kat
Published: March 2021

The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis for species monitoring requires rigorous validation—from field sampling to the analysis of PCR‐based results—for meaningful application and interpretation. Assays targeting eDNA released by individual species are typically validated with no predefined criteria to answer specific research questions in one ecosystem. Hence, the general applicability of assays, as well as associated uncertainties and limitations, often remain undetermined. The absence of clear guidelines for assay validation prevents targeted eDNA assays from being incorporated into species monitoring and policy; thus, their establishment is essential for realizing the potential of eDNA‐based surveys. We describe the measures and tests necessary for successful validation of targeted eDNA assays and the associated pitfalls to form the basis of guidelines. A list of 122 variables was compiled, consolidated into 14 thematic blocks (e.g., “in silico analysis”), and arranged on a 5‐level validation scale from “incomplete” to “operational” with defined minimum validation criteria for each level. These variables were evaluated for 546 published single‐species assays. The resulting dataset was used to provide an overview of current validation practices and test the applicability of the validation scale for future assay rating. Of the 122 variables, 20% to 76% were reported; the majority (30%) of investigated assays were classified as Level 1 (incomplete), and 15% did not achieve this first level. These assays were characterized by minimal in silico and in vitro testing, but their share in annually published eDNA assays has declined since 2014. The meta‐analysis demonstrates the suitability of the 5‐level validation scale for assessing targeted eDNA assays. It is a user‐friendly tool to evaluate previously published assays for future research and routine monitoring, while also enabling the appropriate interpretation of results. Finally, it provides guidance on validation and reporting standards for newly developed assays.
Palladium‐Catalyzed C−H Functionalization of Diaryl 1,3,5‐Triazines
Authors: Lu Xiaodong , Wan Boshun
Published: March 2021

Diaryl 1,3,5‐triazines are not only important linkers in various covalent‐ and metal‐organic frameworks but also versatile electron acceptors in host materials for organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). We herein report C−H acetoxylation, benzoxylation, methoxylation, and halogenation of a diverse array of diaryl 1,3,5‐triazines under palladium catalysis. Both symmetrical and nonsymmetrical diaryltriazines are viable substrates. This work offers a potential alternative to the existing methods in preparation or modification of functional materials.
Bioamperometric Systems with Fructose Dehydrogenase From Gluconobacter japonicus for D‐Tagatose Monitoring
Authors: Voitechovič Edita , Stankevičiūtė Jonita , Vektarienė Aušra , Vektaris Gytis , Jančienė Regina , Kuisienė Nomeda , Razumienė Julija , Meškys Rolandas
Published: March 2021

D‐Tagatose is a rare natural sugar, which is promising alternative for popular dietary sweeteners. To optimize and make D‐tagatose production more cost‐effective, a portable (bio)sensor would be beneficial for D‐tagatose quantification in bioreactor media during D‐tagatose (bio)synthesis. In this study, a pilot study of D‐tagatose quantification by a bioamperometric system is reported. A key feature of the system is usage of fructose dehydrogenase from Gluconobacter japonicus, widely known as a highly fructose‐specific enzyme, and 2‐arylamino‐1,4‐benzoquinone derivatives, as electron transfer mediators from the enzyme to carbon electrodes. The system has been validated as biosensor for D‐tagatose quantification in the fermentation medium.
Steatotic Hepatocytes Release Mature VLDL Through Methionine and Tyrosine Metabolism in a Keap1‐Nrf2–Dependent Manner
Authors: Sano Akitoshi , Kakazu Eiji , Hamada Shin , Inoue Jun , Ninomiya Masashi , Iwata Tomoaki , Tsuruoka Mio , Sato Kosuke , Masamune Atsushi
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

NAFLD is a lipotoxic disease wherein hepatic steatosis and oxidative stress are key pathogenic features. However, whether free amino acids (FAAs) are associated with the oxidative stress response against lipotoxicity has yet to be determined. We hypothesized that an imbalance of FAAs aggravates hepatic steatosis by interfering with the oxidative stress sensor.

Approach and Results

C57BL/6 mouse immortalized hepatocytes, primary hepatocytes, and organoids were employed. Steatotic hepatocytes treated with oleic acid (OA) were cultured under FAA‐modifying media based on the concentrations of FAAs in the hepatic portal blood of wild‐type (WT) mice. As in vivo experiments, WT hepatocyte‐specific Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) knockout mice (Keap1∆hepa) and Cre‐ control mice (Keap1fx/fx) were fed high‐fat (HF) diets with modified amino acid content. The correlations were analyzed between the areas of lipid droplets (LDs) around central vein and plasma OA/FAA ratio in 61 patients with NAFLD. Mice fed an HF, Met‐restricted, and tyrosine (Tyr)‐deficient diet showed the NAFLD‐like phenotype in which the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), triglyceride‐rich VLDL, and fumarate were decreased in liver, but Keap1∆hepa ameliorated these phenomena. Reactive oxygen species and LDs induced by the deprivation of Met and Tyr were prevented in hepatic organoids generated from Keap1∆hepa. Dimethyl fumarate, an Nrf2 inducer, ameliorated the steatosis and increased the hepatic fumarate reduced by the deprivation of Met and Tyr in vitro. OA/Met or Tyr ratio in peripheral blood was associated with the hepatic steatosis in patients with NAFLD.

Conclusions

An imbalance between free fatty acids and Met and Tyr induces hepatic steatosis by disturbing the VLDL assembling through the Keap1‐Nrf2 system.
Accuracy of Transient Elastography in Assessing Fibrosis at Diagnosis in Naïve Patients With Primary Biliary Cholangitis: A Dual Cut‐Off Approach
Authors: Cristoferi Laura , Calvaruso Vincenza , Overi Diletta , Viganò Mauro , Rigamonti Cristina , Degasperi Elisabetta , Cardinale Vincenzo , Labanca Sara , Zucchini Nicola , Fichera Anna , Di Marco Vito , Leutner Monica , Venere Rosanna , Picciotto Antonino , Lucà Martina , Mulinacci Giacomo , Palermo Andrea , Gerussi Alessio , D’Amato Daphne , Elisabeth O’Donnell Sarah , Cerini Federica , De Benedittis Carla , Malinverno Federica , Ronca Vincenzo , Mancuso Clara , Cazzagon Nora , Ciaccio Antonio , Barisani Donatella , Marzioni Marco , Floreani Annarosa , Alvaro Domenico , Gaudio Eugenio , Invernizzi Pietro , Carpino Guido , Nardi Alessandra , Carbone Marco ,   on the behalf of the Italian PBC Registry
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

Liver fibrosis holds a relevant prognostic meaning in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Noninvasive fibrosis evaluation using vibration‐controlled transient elastography (VCTE) is routinely performed. However, there is limited evidence on its accuracy at diagnosis in PBC. We aimed to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of VCTE in assessing advanced fibrosis (AF) at disease presentation in PBC.

Approach and Results

We collected data from 167 consecutive treatment‐naïve PBC patients who underwent liver biopsy (LB) at diagnosis at six Italian centers. VCTE examinations were completed within 12 weeks of LB. Biopsies were scored by two blinded expert pathologists, according to the Ludwig system. Diagnostic accuracy was estimated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCs) for AF (Ludwig stage ≥III). Effects of biochemical and clinical parameters on liver stiffness measurement (LSM) were appraised. The derivation cohort consisted of 126 patients with valid LSM and LB; VCTE identified patients with AF with an AUROC of 0.89. LSM cutoffs ≤6.5 and >11.0 kPa enabled to exclude and confirm, respectively, AF (negative predictive value [NPV] = 0.94; positive predictive value [PPV] = 0.89; error rate = 5.6%). These values were externally validated in an independent cohort of 91 PBC patients (NPV = 0.93; PPV = 0.89; error rate = 8.6%). Multivariable analysis found that the only parameter affecting LSM was fibrosis stage. No association was found with BMI and liver biochemistry.

Conclusions

In a multicenter study of treatment‐naïve PBC patients, we identified two cutoffs (LSM ≤6.5 and >11.0 kPa) able to discriminate at diagnosis the absence or presence, respectively, of AF in PBC patients, with external validation. In patients with LSM between these two cutoffs, VCTE is not reliable and liver biopsy should be evaluated for accurate disease staging. BMI and liver biochemistry did not affect LSMs.
Radiofrequency Ablation Covering the Entire Tumor Blood Drainage Area Improves Survival in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hirooka Masashi , Koizumi Yohei , Tanaka Takaaki , Sunago Kotarou , Nakamura Yoshiko , Watanabe Takao , Yoshida Osamu , Tokumoto Yoshio , Abe Masanori , Hiasa Yoichi
Published: March 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma has been considered to disseminate through the tumor blood drainage area. To improve curation rates, treatment should cover this area as it may contain satellite lesions. This retrospective study aimed to investigate whether radiofrequency ablation (RFA) completely covering the blood drainage area can improve the overall and disease‐free survival. We enrolled 526 patients who underwent computed tomography during hepatic arteriography following RFA from April 2001 to May 2019. Patients were categorized into a covered group in which the blood drainage area was completely covered by RFA and a noncovered group in which coverage was incomplete. The primary endpoint was the overall survival rate; secondary outcomes included disease‐free survival rate, distant intrahepatic and local recurrence rate, and changes in the Child‐Pugh score. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Cumulative overall survival rates were significantly higher in the covered group than in the noncovered group (hazard ratio, 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 0.48‐0.84; P = 0.002). On multivariate Cox proportional hazard model analysis, age <65 years, Child‐Pugh class A, and coverage of the entire drainage area were independent protective factors. Child‐Pugh worsened in 11 (4.2%) patients in the covered group compared to 18 (6.7%) patients in the noncovered group. Conclusion: RFA covering the complete drainage area improved overall survival without decreasing liver function.
Observed and reported coparenting and toddlers' adaptive functioning
Authors: Nandy Angana , Nixon Elizabeth , Quigley Jean
Published: March 2021

This study examined the associations between perceived and observed coparenting and toddlers' adaptive functioning. Seventy‐seven typically developing toddlers aged between 21 and 27 months and their biological parents residing in Ireland participated in the study. Participating families were Caucasian and English speaking. Parents' perceived coparental relationship was assessed via self‐report. In addition, coparenting dynamics were observed during triadic free‐play and structured‐play tasks. Mothers reported on their toddlers' adaptive functioning. Results indicated a negative association between undermining coparenting and toddlers' social and communication adaptive skills. Findings from the current study highlight the critical role played by triadic family processes in young children's development.

Highlights

This study examined associations between the coparenting relationship and toddlers' adaptive functioning.

The coparenting relationship was assessed via parental self‐reports and observations during triadic family play interactions. Toddlers' adaptive functioning was assessed using maternal reports. Findings indicated a negative relationship between undermining coparenting and toddlers' adaptive skills.

The coparenting relationship is foundational to young children's development. More research in this area is required to disentangle the various pathways by which this family sub‐system can influence toddlers' developmental outcomes. This can help in future intervention planning for enhancing the coparenting relationship.
Apigenin ameliorates oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage induced by multiwall carbon nanotubes in rat kidney mitochondria
Authors: Zamani Fatemeh , Samiei Fatemeh , Mousavi Zahra , Azari Mansour Rezazadeh , Seydi Enayatollah , Pourahmad Jalal
Published: March 2021

The toxicity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) toward the mitochondria of the kidney is not fully recognized and still needs further research. Apigenin (APG) is known as a flavonoid compound and natural antioxidant. The purpose of this study was to assess the ameliorative role of APG against multiwall CNT (MWCNT)‐induced kidney toxicity in rats. The animals were administrated with APG (10 mg/kg) for 2 weeks and then were exposed to MWCNTs (5 mg/m3) in pure and impure forms (10 and 100 nm) for 5 h/day and 5 days/week. Then, mitochondria were isolated from the kidney tissue and mitochondrial toxicity parameters were measured. Decreases in succinate dehydrogenase activity have been reported in all groups exposed to MWCNTs. Results indicated that MWCNTs in both forms and sizes were able to increase the generation of reactive oxygen species, decline mitochondrial membrane potential, induce mitochondrial swelling, and release cytochrome c in isolated kidney mitochondria. The pretreatment of APG decreased all the abovementioned mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress parameters induced by both pure and impure MWCNTs. Our results showed that MWCNTs have the ability to enter the body, subsequently, cross cellular barriers, and reach the kidney as a sensitive organ, which can result in mitochondrial damage in kidney cells including renal tubular cells. In addition, APG can be an effective nutritional antioxidant regimen against MWCNT‐induced kidney damage.
Serum lipids and prostate cancer
Authors: Garrido Manuel M. , Marta José C. , Ribeiro Ruy M. , Pinheiro Luís C. , Guimarães João T.
Published: March 2021

Background

Conflicting results are found in the literature relating serum lipids levels and prostate cancer. Some results imply a relationship between them; others contradict this association. The purpose of this study was to investigate a possible association between serum lipids levels and prostate cancer, at time of diagnosis.

Methods

We measured serum levels of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides in 237 patients submitted to a prostate biopsy, with PSA between 2 and 10 ng/ml. Patients without cancer at biopsy were used as controls, and the others were considered as cases. No information about lipid‐lowering therapy, including statins, was available neither in cases nor in controls. Cases were divided into risk groups, according to the disease severity, based on staging. Lipids levels were compared between groups, using parametric and nonparametric tests. Logistic regression analysis and odds ratios were calculated.

Results

LDL and total cholesterol levels were lower in patients with cancer, with the difference being statistically significant for LDL cholesterol (p = 0.010) and borderline for total cholesterol (p = 0.050). No significant differences were found between the several risk groups. Odds ratios for low LDL cholesterol (<130 mg/dl) and low total cholesterol (<200 mg/dl), with prostate cancer as the outcome, were 1.983 and 1.703, respectively. There were no significant differences between cases and controls for the other lipids.

Conclusion

Lower LDL cholesterol (<130 mg/dl) and lower total cholesterol (<200 mg/dl) serum levels seem to associate with prostate cancer, at time of diagnosis.
Correlations between Serum P2X7, Vitamin A, 25‐hydroxy Vitamin D, and Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Pneumonia
Authors: Meng Fanjun , Chen Ping , Guo Xiaolong , Li Xiaoru , Wu Yuexuan , Liu Wenen , Jiang Feng , Liu Huan , Wang Lixin
Published: March 2021

Background

Identifying new molecular diagnostic markers for Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Pneumonia (MPP) has always been an essential topic since MPP cases have increased every year, especially among children. Here, we examined the correlation between serum level of Purinergic receptor P2X7, vitamin A, and 25‐hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) and the severity of MPP, aiming to identify molecules that have the potential to become diagnostic markers.

Methods

This study was conducted on 186 cases aged 1–14 (136 MPP and 50 non‐MPP patients). Serum levels of Purinergic receptor P2X7, vitamin A, 25(OH)D, and multiple inflammatory and immune factors were measured, compared, and tested for statistical significance.

Results

Serum P2X7, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) levels were significantly increased in severe MPP patients, while serum vitamin A, 25(OH)D, IgA, and IgG levels were significantly decreased.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated a positive correlation between serum P2X7 level and the severity of MPP, and negative correlations between serum levels of vitamin A and 25(OH)D and the severity of MPP, suggesting that high serum levels of P2X7 and low serum levels of vitamin A and 25(OH)D may indicate relatively severer MPP.
Immobilized fungal consortium‐GR: a novel textile effluent treatment alternative for removal of azo dyes and other pollutants
Authors: Sen Sudip Kumar , Das Jagan Kumar , Rajhans Geetanjali , Barik Adyasa , Raut Sangeeta
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Cleaning up the environment by the elimination of harmful contaminants from textile effluents (TE) is a critical and challenging crisis that requires long‐term appropriate solutions. In this work, a fungal consortium‐GR containing two fungi Geotrichum candidum F4 and Rhodotorula glutinis F7, in the ratio 1:1, is demonstrated to treat the organic contaminants in TEs.

RESULTS

The immobilized consortium‐GR in coconut fibre is 24% more efficient at treating TE than free consortium‐GR, showing a maximum decolorization of 88.4% in 6 h immersion, at optimal conditions of pH 5.5, temperature 35 °C, inoculum size 5% and fibre quantity 2.5 g L−1. Biodegradation was confirmed by using UV–visible spectrophotometry, high‐performance liquid chromatography and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the degradation pathway of methyl orange was confirmed by gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy study. The novel immobilized consortium‐GR in the bioreactor was assessed by the reduction of toxic parameters in 6 h: colour by 70%, total dissolved solids by 62%, total suspended solids by 81%, biological oxygen demand by 51%, chemical oxygen demand by 58%, chloride by 78%, ammonia by 64%, sulfate by 55%, lead by 12.5% and chromium by 75%. During this process of bioconversion, maximum laccase activity of 3.25 U L−1 was observed in 6 h by immobilized consortium‐GR. Phytotoxicity and genotoxicity studies revealed the detoxification of TE.

CONCLUSION

Through the continuous reuse of treated water in subsequent dyeings, the proposed TE treatment process represented a 92.86% reduction in water use and a total cost reduction of 22.47%.This study is a step towards upcoming onsite, field and short‐term applications of consortium‐GR for the management of TE. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Engineered extracellular vesicles as versatile ribonucleoprotein delivery vehicles for efficient and safe CRISPR genome editing
Authors: Yao Xingang , Lyu Pin , Yoo Kyung , Yadav Manish Kumar , Singh Ravi , Atala Anthony , Lu Baisong
Published: March 2021

Transient delivery of CRISPR‐based genome editing effectors is important to reduce off‐target effects and immune responses. Recently extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been explored for Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery. However, lack of mechanisms to enrich RNPs into EVs limited the efficiency of EVs as a RNP delivery vehicle. Here we describe a mechanism to actively enrich RNPs into EVs. We used the specific interaction between RNA aptamer and aptamer‐binding protein (ABP) to enrich RNPs into EVs. We inserted RNA aptamer com into single guide RNA (sgRNA), and fused com‐binding ABP Com to both termini of tetraspan protein CD63 that is abundant in exosomes. We found that the Com/com interaction enriched Cas9 and adenine base editor (ABE) RNPs into EVs, via forming a three‐component complex including CD63‐Com fusion protein, com‐modified sgRNA and Cas9 or ABE. The RNP enriched EVs are efficient in genome editing and transiently expressed. The system is capable of delivering RNPs targeting multiple loci for multiplex genome editing. In addition, Cas9 from different species can be used together. The EV‐delivered RNPs are active in vivo. The data show that the aptamer and ABP interactions can be utilized to actively enrich RNPs into EVs for improved genome editing efficiency and safety.
Prenatal Genetic Diagnosis of a Sex Chromosome Aneuploidy: Parent Experiences
Authors: Riggan Kirsten A. , Gross Brianna , Close Sharron , Weinberg Abigail , Allyse Megan A.
Published: March 2021

Sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs) occur in 1 in every 400 births. SCAs are highly variable and have uncertain prognoses, complicating the delivery of prenatal cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) results or diagnosis following amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling. Using a mixed‐methods approach, we explored the experiences of parents receiving a prenatal diagnosis of a fetus with SCA. Responses to open‐ended questions were qualitatively analyzed. Of the 323 parents who completed the survey, 122 received a prenatal diagnosis and answered at least one open‐ended question. Most parents did not recall being informed that cfDNA screening or amniocentesis could reveal the presence of a SCA prior to testing and described feeling unprepared for a positive result. Variation was found between parents who were delivered a diagnosis by a genetic professional versus other clinical specialties. Many parents expressed that the diagnosis was delivered in a way that emphasized the negative attributes of the SCA and that they were provided limited support materials. Parents who received a prenatal diagnosis of a SCA expressed a desire for more supportive delivery of prenatal diagnosis that focuses on parental education and nuanced discussion of potential phenotypes. Genetic counselors should be aware of the range of parental experiences when receiving a SCA diagnosis from non‐genetic providers. Prenatal SCA diagnoses are predicted to increase as prenatal cfDNA screening becomes more widely used. Collaborations for greater provider education and comprehensive materials on SCAs are essential to facilitate the delivery of SCA diagnoses and improve parent understanding and support.
Convenient synthesis and anticancer evaluation of novel pyrazolyl‐thiophene, thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine, pyrazolo[3,4‐d]thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine and pyrano[2,3‐d]thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine derivatives
Authors: Masaret Ghada S.
Published: March 2021

The newly synthesized 3‐(3‐amino‐5‐(phenylamino)‐4‐(phenylcarbamoyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)‐3‐oxopropanoate was utilized as a precursor for the synthesis of pyrazolyl‐thiophene derivative, which undergoes cyclization upon treatment with benzaldehyde derivatives to provide pyrazolo[3,4‐d]thieno[3,2‐b]pyridines. Basic treatment of pyrazolyl‐thiophene derivative with phenyl isothiocyanate followed by subsequent addition of chloroacetone and/or ethyl bromoacetate yielded the thiazolylidene‐pyrazolyl thiophenes. In addition, the building block 3‐(3‐amino‐5‐(phenylamino)‐4‐(phenylcarbamoyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)‐3‐oxopropanoate was converted into the corresponding thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine compounds through its reactions with (DMF‐DMA) and/or heating in sodium ethoxide. Moreover, the reaction of 7‐hydroxy‐5‐oxo‐N‐phenyl‐2‐(phenylamino)‐4,5‐dihydrothieno[3,2‐b]pyridine‐3‐carboxamide with 2‐arylidenemalononitrile produced the new annulated pyrano[2,3‐d]thieno[3,2‐b]pyridines. The prepared thiophene‐based compounds were evaluated against HepG2, PC3, and MCF‐7 cancer cells, and normal fibroblast cell (WI38). The pyrazolo[3,4‐d]thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine and pyrano[2,3‐d]thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine compounds substituted with chlorophenyl group presented promising cytotoxic activities against HepG2 cancer cell line without any human toxicity. Docking study for the synthesized thiophene compounds delivered valuable insights about the binding interactions with the crystal structure of NS5B enzyme with PDB ID (4TLR).
Evaluation of precipitation simulations in CMIP6 models over Uganda
Authors: Ngoma Hamida , Wen Wang , Ayugi Brian , Babaousmail Hassen , Karim Rizwan , Ongoma Victor
Published: March 2021

This study employed 15 CMIP6 GCMs and evaluated their ability to simulate rainfall over Uganda during 1981–2014. The models and the ensemble mean were assessed based on the ability to reproduce the annual climatology, seasonal rainfall distribution and trend. Statistical metrics used include mean bias error, normalized root mean square error, and pattern correlation coefficient. The Taylor diagram and Taylor skill score (TSS) were used in ranking the models. The models' performance varies greatly from one season to the other. The models reproduced the observed bimodal rainfall pattern of March to May (MAM) and September to November (SON) occurring over the region. Some models slightly overestimated, while some slightly underestimated, the MAM rainfall. However, there was a high rainfall overestimation during SON by most models. The models showed a positive spatial correlation with observed dataset, whereas a low correlation was shown inter‐annually. Some models could not capture the rainfall patterns around local‐scale features, for example, around the Lake Victoria basin and mountainous areas. The best performing models identified in the study include GFDL‐ESM4, CanESM5, CESM2‐WACCM, MRI‐ESM2‐0, NorESM2‐LM, UKESM1‐0‐LL, and CNRM‐CM6‐1. The models CNRM‐CM6‐1, and CNRM‐ESM2 underestimated rainfall throughout the annual cycle and mean climatology. However, these two models better reproduced the spatial trends of rainfall during both MAM and SON. Caution should be taken when employing the models in seasonal climate change studies as their performance varies from one season to another. The model spread in CMIP6 over the study area also calls for further investigation on the attributions and possible implementation of robust approaches of machine learning to minimize the biases.
Immediate single‐tooth implant placement with simultaneous bone augmentation versus delayed implant placement after alveolar ridge preservation in bony defect sites in the esthetic region: A 5‐year randomized controlled trial
Authors: Slagter Kirsten W. , Meijer Henny J. A. , Hentenaar Diederik F. M. , Vissink Arjan , Raghoebar Gerry M.
Published: March 2021

Background

It is unclear if an intact buccal bony plate is a prerequisite for immediate implant placement in post‐extraction sockets. The aim of this 5‐year randomized controlled trial was therefore comparison of peri‐implant soft and hard tissue parameters, esthetic ratings, and patient‐reported satisfaction of immediate implant placement in post‐extraction sockets with buccal bony defects of ≥ 5 mm in the esthetic zone, with delayed implant placement after ridge preservation.

Methods

Patients presenting a failing tooth in the esthetic region and a buccal bony defect of ≥ 5 mm after extraction were randomly assigned to immediate (Immediate group, n = 20) or delayed (Delayed group, n = 20) implant placement. Second‐stage surgery and placement of a provisional restoration occurred 3 months after implant placement in both groups, followed by definitive restorations 3 months thereafter. The follow‐up was 5 years. Marginal bone level (primary outcome), buccal bone thickness, soft tissue parameters, esthetics, and patient‐reported satisfaction were recorded.

Results

Mean marginal bone level change was −0.71 ± 0.35 mm and −0.54 ± 0.41 mm in respectively the Immediate group and the Delayed group after 5 years (P = 0.202). This difference, and in other variables, was not significant.

Conclusions

Marginal bone level changes, buccal bone thickness, clinical outcomes, esthetics, and patients’ satisfaction following immediate implant placement, in combination with bone augmentation in post‐extraction sockets with buccal bony defects of ≥ 5 mm, were comparable to those following delayed implant placement after ridge preservation in the esthetic zone.
The impact of smart tourism technology and domestic travelers' technology readiness on their satisfaction and behavioral intention: A cross‐country comparison
Authors: Hailey Shin Hyejo , Jeong Miyoung , Cho Mi‐Hea
Published: March 2021

Despite the increasing use of tourism technology, not much has been discovered about the effects of the external aspects of tourism technology with internal inclination of travelers to adopt the technologies. This study attempted to examine the influence of smart tourism technologies (STTs) and travelers' technology readiness (TR) on satisfaction and future behavioral intention. Comparing two smart tourism destinations in the United States and South Korea, this study investigated the cross‐country effects in the relationships among STTs, TR, satisfaction, and behavioral intention. The results revealed that travelers' TR has a more significant impact on satisfaction than STTs. Specifically, travelers' optimism, innovativeness, and discomfort significantly influenced travelers' satisfaction, while STTs' informativeness positively affected travelers' satisfaction. The results of cross‐country comparison indicated that travelers' TR and perspectives toward STTs differently affected their satisfaction with STTs by their destination country. The findings of this study suggest that when implementing STTs in tourism destinations, the destination tourism organizations should identify their target travelers' demographic profile including cultural backgrounds as a way to enhance their level of satisfaction and future behavioral intention.
Social media usage behaviours of religious tourists: The cases of the Vatican, Mecca, and Jerusalem
Authors: Caber Meltem , Drori Netanel , Albayrak Tahir , Herstein Ram
Published: March 2021

The study examines social media (SM) usage preferences of religious tourists, their motivations for sharing travel experiences on SM, and the motivational differences by demographics and SM usage characteristics. Employing three field studies in the Vatican, Mecca, and Jerusalem, we show that instant messaging applications were the most popular SM platforms for all religious groups. In addition, motivation for experience sharing on SM differed by age, visit frequency to destination, religiosity level, and SM usage experience. Although there were significant differences between the groups in terms of using SM to share their travel experience, 'maintaining social connections & friendships' was identified as the most important motive for all.
Enabling Superior Thermo–Oxidative Resistance Elastomers Based on a Structure Recovery Strategy
Authors: Chen Xu , Zhang Hui‐Feng , Li Kai‐Juan , Liao Shuangquan , Luo Ming‐Chao
Published: March 2021

Thermo–oxidative process leads to the structure damage of elastomers, such as the scission of main chains and destruction of crosslinks. The problem that damaged structure brings about the deterioration of mechanical properties has not been solved by the conventional anti‐aging methods. Inspired by self‐healing process, a structure recovery strategy for recovering the damaged structure induced by thermo–oxidative process is proposed, which endows elastomers with superior thermo–oxidative resistance. The high reactivity between 1,3‐diisopropenylbenzene and free radicals realizes high recovery efficiency (from 83% to 118%); the changes in topology structure during recovery process make much more rubber chains bear external stress and improve mechanical properties significantly (from 18.5 to 29.6 MPa). This work paves the way for the development of elastomers with superior thermo–oxidative resistance, meanwhile this work is helpful to push the theoretical research of self‐healing to practical application.
Efficient Access to 3D Mesoscopic Prisms in Polymeric Soft Materials
Authors: Lyu Xiaolin , Huang Hanlin , Tang Zhehao , Luo Longfei , Luo Wenjun , Yu Yan , Shen Zhihao , Fan Xing‐He , Zou Zhigang
Published: March 2021

The preparation of 3D functional isolated mesoscopic assemblies remains a challenge in the self‐assembly of polymers. Here, well‐defined 3D hexagonal and hexagram prisms with uniform dimensions are acquired by the crystallization of the inclusion complex composed of a crystalline molecule tris‐o‐phenylenedioxycyclotriphosphazene (TPP) and a block copolymer. The crystalline TPP plays an important role in the self‐assembling process. The faceted morphologies of the hexagonal and hexagram prisms are infrequent in the self‐assembly field of soft materials. The formation of the prisms experiences a 3D growth mechanism. The epitaxial growth, accompanied by the heterogeneous nucleation in the edges, yields the growth of inclusion crystals. This study provides a path to construct well‐defined polymeric soft materials with broad utility based on numerous supramolecular complexes.
ANALYSIS OF CARBOHYDRATES AND GLYCOCONJUGATES BY MATRIX‐ASSISTED LASER DESORPTION/IONIZATION MASS SPECTROMETRY: AN UPDATE FOR 2015–2016
Authors: Harvey David J.
Published: March 2021

This review is the ninth update of the original article published in 1999 on the application of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry to the analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates and brings coverage of the literature to the end of 2016. Also included are papers that describe methods appropriate to analysis by MALDI, such as sample preparation techniques, even though the ionization method is not MALDI. Topics covered in the first part of the review include general aspects such as theory of the MALDI process, matrices, derivatization, MALDI imaging, fragmentation and arrays. The second part of the review is devoted to applications to various structural types such as oligo‐ and poly‐saccharides, glycoproteins, glycolipids, glycosides and biopharmaceuticals. Much of this material is presented in tabular form. The third part of the review covers medical and industrial applications of the technique, studies of enzyme reactions and applications to chemical synthesis. The reported work shows increasing use of combined new techniques such as ion mobility and the enormous impact that MALDI imaging is having. MALDI, although invented over 30 years ago is still an ideal technique for carbohydrate analysis and advancements in the technique and range of applications show no sign of deminishing. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Increased Risk of Parkinson's Disease in Women after Bilateral Oophorectomy
Authors: Canonico Marianne , Pesce Giancarlo , Bonaventure Audrey , Le Noan‐Lainé Maryline , Benatru Isabelle , Ranoux Danièle , Moisan Frédéric , Elbaz Alexis
Published: March 2021

Background

Results regarding the association between hormonal exposure and risk of Parkinson's disease (PD) are heterogeneous.

Objectives

To investigate the association of reproductive life characteristics with PD among postmenopausal women.

Methods

The PARTAGE case–control included 130 female cases and 255 age‐matched female controls. Information on gynecological history was obtained from a standardized questionnaire and PD was validated by neurological examination. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using conditional logistic regression.

Results

After adjustment for education level, smoking status, professional exposure to pesticides, and coffee and alcohol drinking, bilateral oophorectomy (OR = 3.55, 95%CI = 1.75–7.20), but neither menopause before age 50 years (OR = 1.24, 95%CI = 0.74–2.09) nor hormone therapy (HT; OR = 1.07, 95%CI = 0.62–1.86), was associated with PD.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that bilateral oophorectomy is associated with increased risk of PD. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society