bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinspired Artificial Liver System with hiPSC‐Derived Hepatocytes for Acute Liver Failure Treatment
Authors: Wang Jinglin , Ren Haozhen , Liu Yuxiao , Sun Lingyu , Zhang Zhuohao , Zhao Yuanjin , Shi Xiaolei
Published: October 2021

Bioartificial liver (BAL) system has become a promising alternative to traditional liver transplantation in rescuing acute liver failure (ALF) patients. Herein, inspired by natural microstructure of hepatic lobules, a novel biomimetic bioartificial liver system (BBALS) is developed by integrating human induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived hepatocytes (hiPSC‐Heps) ‐laden microparticles and semipermeable microtubes into a microfluidic platform. As the working units are hepatic lobules‐like semipermeable microtubes surrounding with serum‐free suspension differentiated hiPSC‐Heps microcarriers, the BBALS is endowed with functional cell aggregates and effective circulation system. Thus, the BBALS possesses high cell viability, favorable function regeneration, and effective substances exchange. Based on these features, a 3D liver chip with multiple parallel BBALS units is created for filtering the plasma of ALF rabbits, which validates the research significance and application potential of the proposed BBALS. Moreover, the novel integrated BBALS is applied to treat ALF rabbits and shows great advantages in increasing survival, generating serum proteins, and decreasing inflammation. These properties point to the broad prospects of BBALS in treating related diseases and improving traditional clinical methods.
Mechanistic Probing of Encapsulation and Confined Growth of Lithium Crystals in Carbonaceous Nanotubes
Authors: Wei Ping , Cheng Yong , Yan Xiaolin , Ye Weibin , Lan Xiangna , Wang Lina , Sun Jingjie , Yu Zhiyang , Luo Guangfu , Yang Yong , Rummeli Mark H. , Wang Ming‐Sheng
Published: October 2021

Encapsulation of lithium in the confined spaces within individual nanocapsules is intriguing and highly desirable for developing high‐performance Li metal anodes. This work aims for a mechanistic understanding of Li encapsulation and its confined growth kinetics inside 1D enclosed spaces. To achieve this, amorphous carbon nanotubes are employed as a model host using in situ transmission electron microscopy. The carbon shells have dual roles, providing geometric/mechanical constraints and electron/ion transport channels, which profoundly alter the Li growth patterns. Li growth/dissolution takes place via atom addition/removal at the free surfaces through Li+ diffusion along the shells in the electric field direction, resulting in the formation of unusual Li structures, such as poly‐crystalline nanowires and free‐standing 2D ultrathin (1–2 nm) Li membranes. Such confined front‐growth processes are dominated by Li {110} or {200} growing faces, distinct from the root growth of single‐crystal Li dendrites outside the nanotubes. Controlled experiments show that high lithiophilicity/permeability, enabled by sufficient nitrogen/oxygen doping or pre‐lithiation, is critical for the stable encapsulation of lithium inside carbonaceous nanocapsules. First‐principles‐based calculations reveal that N/O doping can reduce the diffusion barrier for Li+ penetration, and facilitate Li filling driven by energy minimization associated with the formation of low‐energy Li/C interfaces.
Self‐Catalytic Small Interfering RNA Nanocarriers for Synergistic Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Ji Weihong , Li Yan , Peng Huan , Zhao Ruichen , Shen Jie , Wu Yanyue , Wang Jianze , Hao Qiulian , Lu Zhiguo , Yang Jun , Zhang Xin
Published: October 2021

Gene therapy has shown great potential for neurodegenerative diseases with complex pathology. However, its therapeutic effect is limited due to the delivery barriers and its own single function. Herein, self‐catalytic small interfering RNA (siRNA) nanocarriers (S/Ce‐PABMS) are developed to catalyze delivery process and treatment process for synergistic treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. On the one hand, the rough surface of the S/Ce‐PABMS mediated by ceria (CeO2) nanozymes can catalyze cellular uptake in the delivery process, so that S/Ce‐PABMS with acetylcholine analogs penetrate the blood–brain barrier and enter neurons more effectively. On the other hand, the CeO2 nanozymes can catalyze the treatment process by scavenging excess reactive oxygen species, and cooperate with siRNA‐targeting SNCA to decrease the α‐synuclein (α‐syn) aggregation and alleviate the Parkinsonian pathology. Moreover, the S/Ce‐PABMS treatment reduces the number of activated microglia and regulates the release of inflammatory cytokine, thereby relieving neuroinflammation. After treatment with S/Ce‐PABMS, dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease model mice is significantly alleviated. The finding shows that the self‐catalytic nanocarriers, S/Ce‐PABMS, have great potential in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
3D Printing Scaffold Vaccine for Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Zhang Yue , Xu Jialu , Fei Ziying , Dai Huaxing , Fan Qin , Yang Qianyu , Chen Yitong , Wang Beilei , Wang Chao
Published: October 2021

Cancer vaccine platform has attracted great interest in the field of cancer immunotherapy. Here, 3D printed scaffolds loaded with immunoregulators are developed for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. The rapid manufacturing and precise molding based on 3D printing can realize the mass manufacturing of cancer vaccines and personalized design. Meanwhile, compared to the traditional hydrogel, the 3D‐scaffold with porous structure endows its similar functions compared with real lymphoid organs by recruitment of a great number of immune cells, leading to the formation of “artificial tertiary lymphoid structures,” where there is a promising site to enhance both humoral and cellular immune responses. Efficient anticancer immunity is induced when combined with immune checkpoint blockade to inhibit the tumor growth. Personalized antitumor scaffold vaccines are further demonstrated for filling of tumor site after surgery to prevent cancer metastasis. Taken together, these results promise the 3D printing scaffold vaccine as the potential strategy for cancer vaccine therapy in the future.
Whose responsibility? Reexamining Victorian justice system responses to the children and families of parents in prison
Authors: Hart Aaron , Field‐Pimm Melanie
Published: October 2021

Research into the children and families affected by parental imprisonment has demonstrated a range of well‐being concerns and proposed a comprehensive array of policy and practice responses, but little practical change has been achieved. With a focus on the Victorian justice system, we provide an overview of the literature and the current service provision, investigating why the policy inertia has persisted. Using feminist theory on the ethics and practices of care, we reexamine the findings of two significant Australian studies into the child and family‐centeredness of professionals within the police, courts, prisons and child protection agencies. We demonstrate that, at best, care is fragile and rendered from the margins of roles that are designed to be care‐less in relation to this cohort. At worst, justice system personnel and procedures can be resolutely uncaring. We suggest that reluctance among policymakers to displace attention from “core business” may explain the absence of policies to care for children and families of imprisoned parents, and highlight two further strategies: leadership to protect and extend the fragile care practice within the justice system; and new mandates to care for children and families of imprisoned parents extending from family‐oriented human services outside the justice system.
Dynamic electrical and mechanical properties of epoxy/silver nanowires composites
Authors: Bedel Vincent , Lonjon Antoine , Dantras Éric , Bouquet Michel , Lacabanne Colette
Published: October 2021

The aim of this work is to study electrically conductive composites from an epoxy matrix loaded with silver nanowires (AgNWs). Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and dynamic dielectric spectroscopy (DDS) were used to study the molecular mobility of the epoxy matrix and its epoxy/AgNWs composites. The influence of the epoxy/amine ratio on the macroscopic properties was analyzed. The loss modulus of the epoxy matrix highlights two major relaxations, and . The relaxation is due to the localized mobility initiated by hydroxyl groups. The trelaxation is the anelastic effect liberated at the glass transition. The introduction of a small amount of AgNWs (<8 vol%) has practically no influence on the mechanical properties of the glassy state. For the rubbery state, AgNWs cause an increase in the storage modulus as a function of the filler content. The loss modulus profile is modified: The relaxation due to heterogeneities of the 3D network is observed independently from the hydration level of composites. The magnitude of the mode is increased due to the stick–slip phenomenon. Moreover, it is shifted toward lower temperatures upon the introduction of AgNWs. In other words, the activation enthalpy decreases for both modes. Electrical study through DDS and conductivity measurement of epoxy/AgNWs composites shows the consequence of a lower relative degree of conversion caused by the insertion of AgNWs. Epoxy/AgNWs composites allow us to obtain one of the highest values of the electrical conductivity for polymer‐based composites without any drastic evolution of mechanical properties.
Unprecedented Multicomponent Reaction of Indoles, CS2 and Nitroarenes: Stereoselective Synthesis of (Z)‐3‐((Arylamino)methylene)indoline‐2‐thiones
Authors: Qin Qi , Liu Xin‐Lian , Ma Ai‐Jun , Zhang Xiang‐Zhi , Peng Jin‐Bao
Published: October 2021

An efficient method for the stereoselective synthesis of (Z)‐3‐((arylamino)methylene)indoline‐2‐thiones have been developed via a novel multicomponent reaction of indoles, CS2 and nitroarenes. A range of functionalized indoline‐2‐thiones were prepared in moderate to good yields from easily available starting materials. The indoline‐2‐thione products can be easily derivatized to give biologically active thieno[2,3‐b]indole and thiopyrano[2,3‐b]indole skeletons in high yields.
Efficient enzymatic synthesis ofL‐ascorbyl palmitate usingCandida antarcticalipase B‐embedded metal‐organic framework
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Jian , Qi Feng‐Yu , Qi Jia‐Mei , Yang Fei , Shen Jiang‐Wei , Cai Xue , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Zheng Yu‐Guo
Published: October 2021

TheCandida antarcticalipase B (CALB) was embedded in the metal‐organic framework, zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8), and applied in the enzymatic synthesis ofL‐ascorbic acid palmitate (ASP) for the first time. The obtained CALB@ZIF‐8 achieved the enzyme loading of 80 mg g−1with 11.3 U g−1(dry weight) unit activity, 59.8% activity recovery, and 92.7% immobilization yield. Under the optimal condition, ASP was synthesized with over 75.9% conversion ofL‐ascorbic acid in a 10‐batch reaction. Continuous synthesis of ASP was subsequently performed in a packed bed bioreactor with an outstanding average space–time yield of 58.1 g L−1 h−1, which was higher than ever reported continuous ASP biosynthesis reactions.
6‐Gingerol and Semisynthetic 6‐Gingerdione Counteract Oxidative Stress Induced by ROS in Zebrafish
Authors: Manjunathan Tamilvelan , Guru Ajay , Arokiaraj Jesu , Gopinath Pushparathinam
Published: October 2021

6‐Gingerol (1) is one of the major components in ginger and developing new synthetic methodologies could bring semisynthetic analogs with improved therapeutic properties. Towards this, multigram scale isolation of 6‐gingerol with excellent purity was optimized using a simple and robust extraction, followed by column purification. Synthesis of 6‐gingerdione, 7 from 6‐gingerol was then achieved through selective –OTBDMS protection, DMP oxidation and deprotection reaction sequence for the first time. Compounds 1, 7 and 8 (dehydrozingerone) exhibited excellent cell‐free antioxidant properties in DPPH, ABTS, superoxide radical scavenging assay and H2O2 assay at 10–50 μM concentrations. The hemolytic study suggests that up to 50 μM, all three compounds did not exhibit toxicity to human erythrocytes. When H2O2 treated zebrafish larvae groups (96hpf) were exposed to compounds 1, 7 and 8, it increases the SOD (19, 19.1 and 18.7 U/mg protein), CAT (18.1, 16.5, and 15.8 μmol/mg levels and decreases the lipid peroxidation level (13, 15 and 18 nmol/mg protein), respectively. In vivo ROS levels and degree of cell death were studied using DCFDA and Acridine orange assays. Compounds 1, 7 and 8 decreases the ROS and cell death level significantly. Taken together, compounds 1, 7 and 8 exhibit excellent antioxidant properties, counteract H2O2 induced oxidative stress, reduces cell death in zebrafish larvae.
On the possible benefits of deep learning for spectral preprocessing
Authors: Helin Runar , Indahl Ulf Geir , Tomic Oliver , Liland Kristian Hovde
Published: October 2021

Preprocessing is a mandatory step in most types of spectroscopy and spectrometry. The choice of preprocessing method depends on the data being analysed, and to get the preprocessing right, domain knowledge or trial and error is required. Given the recent success of deep learning‐based methods in numerous applications and their ability to automatically detect patterns in data, we aimed at exploring the possibilities of using such methods for preprocessing. Our study considered a flexible but systematic investigation of spectroscopic preprocessing methods (classical and deep learning‐based) combined with predictive modelling, including both traditional linear modelling and artificial neural network‐based modelling. The main ambition of the present work was to assess if the advantages of deep learning‐based methods in spectral preprocessing are sufficient to justify the additional efforts in model set‐up and training and the possible losses of interpretability and transparency. With the use of data from different vibrational spectroscopy techniques, we demonstrated that deep learning‐based preprocessing successfully increased the predictive performance of our models but that classical preprocessing still is a good alternative or even the best one in some cases. A significant increase in effort was required when using deep learning‐based preprocessing together with linear model prediction. Compared with classical preprocessing techniques, deep learning‐based preprocessing decreased the transparency and showed only modest improvements of the prediction performance of linear models. Our conclusion is that deep learning‐based preprocessing is best suited when integrated in neural network predictions.
Gender‐related differences in health‐care and economic costs for eating disorders: A comparative cost‐development analysis for anorexia and bulimia nervosa based on anonymized claims data
Authors: Bothe Tim , Walker Jochen , Kröger Christoph
Published: October 2021

Objective

Anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) impose a significant financial burden and immense sufferings on affected individuals. Yet little is known about the differences between how each disorder affects males and females, respectively.

Method

We performed a retrospective cost‐development analysis of anonymized claims data from the German statutory health‐insurance system. Insured persons who suffered from an onset of AN (F50.0; N = 1,242 females and 71 males) or BN (F50.2; N = 1,104 females and 64 males) were analyzed for cost‐of‐illness over a 5‐year period, beginning 2 years before the index diagnosis.

Results

In total, all groups incurred similar distributions of total costs over the 5‐year observation period, with roughly 14,000–20,000 EUR median costs. About two‐thirds of the total costs for females and males with AN are associated with mental illness, whereas for females and males with BN, this applies to approximately half the total costs. Analyses revealed differences between disorders and genders for single outcomes. AN is associated with a stronger increase in costs within a short period following onset and higher inpatient treatment costs, whereas BN entails more instances of incapacity to work before and after onset. Compared to females, males incurred lower costs in outpatient treatments.

Discussion

Our study adds evidence as to the disparities in health‐care utilizations and costs over the course of illness, in outcome ratios, and between genders, for both AN and BN.
Positive body image, intuitive eating, and self‐compassion protect against the onset of the core symptoms of eating disorders: A prospective study
Authors: Linardon Jake
Published: October 2021

Objective

Establishing factors that protect against the onset of eating disorder symptoms is needed to identify critical intervention targets to inform the design of more potent prevention programs. Knowledge of robust protective factors is lacking, which might account for the limited effectiveness of existing prevention programs. As positive body image, intuitive eating, and self‐compassion show protective potential, the present study tested whether these factors protect against the onset of a range of different eating disorder symptoms.

Method

Data were analyzed from 1,270 women who completed study measures at baseline and 8 months. Logistic regressions tested whether, among initially asymptomatic women, baseline and changes in positive body image components (body appreciation, body image flexibility, and functionality appreciation), intuitive eating, and self‐compassion predicted the continued absence versus onset of seven core eating disorder symptoms at follow‐up.

Results

Each of the five factors at baseline was associated with a lower odds of symptom onset for each outcome in univariate analyses. Baseline body appreciation and intuitive eating scores remained consistent, unique predictors of a lower odds of experiencing symptom onset in multivariate models. Greater increases in intuitive eating and body appreciation over time were the two factors consistently associated with a lower odds of symptom onset across several outcomes.

Discussion

This study provides strong evidence for the protective influence of positive body image components, intuitive eating, and self‐compassion against several eating disorder symptoms. Building these factors within established prevention programs may, in the longer term, help reduce the incidence of eating disorder syndromes and symptoms.
Leaf 13C data constrain the uncertainty of the carbon dynamics of temperate forest ecosystems
Authors: Liu Shaoqing , Zhuang Qianlai
Published: October 2021

Stable carbon isotope discrimination occurred in plant biophysical and biogeochemical processes can help understand plant physiology and soil biogeochemistry with respect to carbon cycling. Here, we incorporated the photosynthetic carbon isotope discrimination into a process‐based land surface model (iTEM) to test if stable carbon isotope composition (δ13C) can impose additional constraint on model parameters. Sequential data assimilation was implemented at six eddy covariance flux tower sites using carbon flux observations including gross primary productivity (GPP) and net ecosystem exchange (NEE) with and without considering foliar δ13C (δ13Cf) measurement constraints, respectively. Our model‐data fusion showed that δ13Cf can provide useful constraint on photosynthetic (Vcmax25, the maximum rate of carboxylation at 25°C) and stomatal (g1, the slope of stomatal function) parameters as well as the posterior carbon fluxes. When including δ13Cf measurement, g1 spatially varies among the six sites and is significantly correlated with annual precipitation. We incorporated the statistical relationship between g1 and annual precipitation into iTEM, which is then used to quantify the regional carbon dynamic in temperate forest ecosystems of the Northern Hemisphere. Compared with the simulation only conditioned on carbon flux observations, regional carbon flux estimations performed slightly better against the FLUXCOM products and the uncertainties of modeled carbon fluxes were reduced by 27%. Our study demonstrated that δ13Cf data constrains carbon flux uncertainties across space.
Natural vegetation cover on private lands: locations and risk of loss in the northwestern United States
Authors: Hansen Andrew J. , Mullan Katrina , Theobald David M. , Powell Scott , Robinson Nathaniel , East Alyson
Published: October 2021

Although natural habitats are being lost globally, the extent and fate of natural habitats on private lands in the United States have not been quantified at the resolution relevant for conservation planning. Here we provide information on the locations and risk of loss of areas of natural vegetation cover (NVC) on private lands across the northwestern United States to motivate discussion on needs and opportunities to slow their loss. Specific questions were as follows: (1) Where are the remaining areas of NVC on private lands? (2) Which regions and communities have had the highest loss rates of NVC? and (3) In which socioecological settings is NVC at greatest risk of loss? NVC location and change were mapped using two land cover classifications during 2001–2011, the most recent period with available data. Associations between NVC loss and market proximity, demographic, infrastructure, natural amenity, and climate factors were used to model probability of NVC loss in 2011. We found that NVC covered 64% of the study area in 2011. During 2001–2011, 2.5% of the area of NVC in 2001 was converted to development and croplands. Rates of loss were as high as 12% in some regions (e.g., western Washington). Housing development accounted for the majority of this NVC loss, increasing by 8% while croplands increased by 5%. Conversion of NVC for development and crops during 2001–2011 per capita varied 20–40 fold among “city spheres” (urban areas >10,000 people and 40‐min commuting distance). NVC loss was statistically associated with urban fringe development, forest edge vegetation, proximity to highways, public land, and waterbodies and was associated with New West demographic city spheres. Of the NVC on private lands in 2011, 11% was projected to have >20% probability of future loss over the next decade. We conclude that portions of the northwestern United States, one of the last stronghold for extensive natural habitats in the contiguous United States, are rapidly losing NVC to development, particularly in the New West communities that typically have the highest motivation and capacity to conserve them.
Characterization of SARS‐CoV‐2 and common cold coronavirus‐specific T‐cell responses in MIS‐C and Kawasaki disease children
Authors: Hsieh Li‐En , Grifoni Alba , Sidney John , Shimizu Chisato , Shike Hiroko , Ramchandar Nanda , Moreno Elizabeth , Tremoulet Adriana H. , Burns Jane C. , Franco Alessandra
Published: October 2021

The immunopathogenesis of multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS‐C) in children that may follow exposure to SARS‐CoV‐2 is incompletely understood. Here, we studied SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T cells in MIS‐C, Kawasaki disease (KD), and SARS‐CoV‐2 convalescent controls using peptide pools derived from SARS‐CoV‐2 spike or nonspike proteins, and common cold coronaviruses (CCC). Coordinated CD4+ and CD8+ SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T cells were detected in five MIS‐C subjects with cross‐reactivity to CCC. CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell responses alone were documented in three and one subjects, respectively. T‐cell specificities in MIS‐C did not correlate with disease severity and were similar to SARS‐CoV‐2 convalescent controls. T‐cell memory and cross‐reactivity to CCC in MIS‐C and SARS‐CoV‐2 convalescent controls were also similar. The chemokine receptor CCR6, but not CCR9, was highly expressed on SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific CD4+ but not on CD8+ T cells. Only two of 10 KD subjects showed a T‐cell response to CCC. Enumeration of myeloid APCs revealed low cell precursors in MIS‐C subjects compared to KD. In summary, children with MIS‐C mount a normal T‐cell response to SARS‐CoV‐2 with no apparent relationship to antecedent CCC exposure. Low numbers of tolerogenic myeloid DCs may impair their anti‐inflammatory response.
Group‐based shame, guilt, and regret across cultures
Authors: de Groot Marlies , Schaafsma Juliette , Castelain Thomas , Malinowska Katarzyna , Mann Liesbeth , Ohtsubo Yohsuke , Wulandari Maria Theresia Asti , Bataineh Ruba Fahmi , Fry Douglas P. , Goudbeek Martijn , Suryani Angela
Published: October 2021

To date, there has been no systematic examination of cross‐cultural differences in group‐based shame, guilt, and regret following wrongdoing. Using a community sample (N = 1358), we examined people's reported experiences of shame, guilt, and regret following transgressions by themselves and by different identity groups (i.e., family, community, country) in Burkina Faso, Costa Rica, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, the Netherlands, Poland, and the United States. We assessed whether any variation in this regard can be explained by the relative endorsement of individualistic or collectivistic values at the individual level and at the country level. Our findings suggest that people's reported experience of these emotions mostly depends on the transgression level. We also observe some variation across individuals and countries, which can be partially explained by the endorsement of collectivistic and individualistic values. The results highlight the importance of taking into account individual and cultural values when studying group‐based emotions, as well as the identity groups involved in the transgression.
How did the suspended sediment load change in the North Caucasus during the Anthropocene?
Authors: Tsyplenkov Anatoly , Golosov Valentin , Belyakova Pelagiya
Published: October 2021

Quantifying and understanding catchment sediment fluxes is crucial both from a scientific and environmental management perspective. To deepen the understanding of landuse impacts and climate change on sediment load, we explore factors controlling the suspended sediment load formation in the Northern Caucasus during the Anthropocene. We examine how sediment flux of various river basins with different land‐use/landcover and glacier cover changes during the 1925–2018 period. Our analysis is based on observed mean annual suspended sediment discharges (SSD, kg s−1) and annual fluxes (SSL, t year−1) from 33 gauging stations of The Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring (Russia).SSLseries have been analysed to detect statistically significant changes during the 1925–2018 period. The occurrence of abrupt change points inSSDwas investigated using cumulative sum (CUSUM) charts. We found thatSSLhas decreased by −1.17% per year on average at most gauges. However, the decline was not linear. Several transition years are expected in the region increasing trends from the 1950s and decreasing trends from 1988 to 1994. Correlation analyses showed that variation inSSLtrend values is mainly explained by gauging station altitude, differences in landuse (i.e. the fraction of cropland), and catchment area. Nonetheless, more accurate quantifications ofSSLtrend values and more refined characterizations of the catchments regarding (historical) landuse, soil types/lithology, weather conditions, and topography may reveal other tendencies.
A case of miliary tuberculosis following transurethral surgery and prostate biopsy after intravesical Bacillus Calmette–Guerin immunotherapy
Authors: Kurokawa Yoshiaki , Kawai Taketo , Miyakawa Jimpei , Makise Naohiro , Akiyama Yoshiyuki , Yamada Yuta , Sato Yusuke , Yamada Daisuke , Ushiku Tetsuo , Kume Haruki
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Intravesical Bacillus Calmette–Guerin immunotherapy is known to prevent recurrence of bladder cancer, but it can cause tuberculosis infections as an adverse event.

Case presentation

A 75‐year‐old man visited our hospital due to hematuria. The patient was diagnosed with bladder cancer and underwent transurethral resection of the bladder tumor. Postoperatively, the patient received Bacillus Calmette–Guerin immunotherapy. One year later, we performed transurethral surgery and prostate biopsy because of cystoscopic findings showing nodulous lesions in the bladder and an elevated serum prostate‐specific antigen level. The patient presented with high fever and malaise since the surgery. After careful examination, the patient was diagnosed with miliary tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis. The pathology of the bladder and prostate revealed acid‐fast bacilli collection by Ziehl–Neelsen staining.

Conclusion

The surgery exacerbated the local infection into a systemic infection. The risk of developing miliary tuberculosis should be considered at transurethral surgery or prostate biopsy in patients after intravesical Bacillus Calmette–Guerin immunotherapy.
Mechanism of subchronic vinyl chloride exposure combined with a high‐fat diet on hepatic steatosis
Authors: Jia Jin , Chen Shi‐qi , Pan Wei‐zhe , Yu Sheng‐nan , Zhao Xiao‐tian , Hao Yan , Shen Yong‐mei , Cheng Ying , Wei Cai‐ling , Tian Feng‐jie , Yan Xiao‐yan , Qiu Yu‐lan
Published: October 2021

Vinyl chloride (VC) is a common industrial organic chlorine and environmental pollutant. In recent years, the dietary structure of residents especially Chinese has gradually shifted to western dietary patterns. VC aggravates dietary fatty acid‐induced hepatic steatosis, but its mechanism is still unclear. And if the risk factors for steatosis persist, more severe diseases such as fibrosis and cirrhosis will occur. Therefore, we studied the effects and mechanisms of VC (160 and 800 mg/m3) and its metabolite (chloroacetaldehyde, 2.25, 4.5, and 9 μM) on hepatic steatosis of high‐fat diet (HFD)‐fed mice and palmitic acid (PA, 100 μM) treated HepG2 cells. Liver and serum biochemical indicators and pathological staining of the liver showed that the hepatic steatosis of VC combined with HFD groups was more severe than that of single‐exposure groups (HFD group, low‐dose VC group, and high‐dose VC group). Moreover, VC enhanced HFD‐induced oxidative stress (OS) and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and further upregulated the expression of sterol regulatory element‐binding protein 1 (SREBP‐1) and FAS. Besides, antioxidants and ERS inhibitors reduced the steatosis of HepG2 cells induced by VC metabolites and PA. These results suggest that VC exposure can enhance the degree of hepatic steatosis in HFD‐fed mice. VC combined with HFD led to OS and ERS and upregulated the expression of de novo lipogenesis‐related proteins, which may be related to the occurrence of hepatic steatosis. And the increased expression of CYP2E1 induced by VC combined with HFD may be the cause of OS.
Assessing current concerns and goals idiographically: A review of the Motivational Structure Questionnaire family of instruments
Authors: Cox W. Miles , Klinger Eric
Published: October 2021

Background

There have been two kinds of methods for assessing individuals' motivation and their goal‐striving behavior. The idiographic method obtains respondents' individual descriptions of their behavior or inner experiences. The nomothetic approach uses a standardized questionnaire in which respondents select from a set of alternatives. Idiographic responses provide rich, individualized information, but they make comparisons across different individuals difficult. By contrast, the nomothetic approach loses valuable individualized information, but it readily lends itself to cross‐individual comparisons.

Objective

The present authors have developed a family of motivational assessment instruments within the framework of the Goal Theory of Current Concerns and individuals' goal pursuits. Each of these instruments is a hybrid version of the idiographic and nomothetic methods. Each one obtains individualized information about each respondent at the start of the assessment, but it then utilizes rating scales that allow comparisons across different individuals to be made. The objective of the present article is to present this family of hybridized instruments for potential use in routine outcome monitoring.

Method

The method used in this article was to review the development of this family of hybrid assessments instruments over the preceding decades and the research on their psychometric properties and clinical applications. These hybrid tools include the Interview Questionnaire, Work Concerns Inventory, Motivational Structure Questionnaire, and Personal Concerns Inventory and their variants. The review includes only the idiographic‐nomothetic approaches that are based on the Goal Theory of Current Concerns.

Results

The review reveals that for each instrument, motivational indices are calculated, which have been shown to be valid and reliable. Analyses have also revealed adaptive and maladaptive motivational factors.

Conclusions

The measures discussed here have proven useful in clinical applications, when, for example, they are used as components of Systematic Motivational Counseling and the Life Enhancement and Advancement Programme for helping individuals improve their motivational structure. Similarly, the measures hold promise for use in routine outcome monitoring.
Mycochemical screening reveals exopolysaccharide secretion, antioxidant and larvicidal activities of three oyster mushrooms
Authors: Asemoloye Michael D , Sunmola Nurudeen , Jonathan Gbolagade , Chikwem John
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Higher fungi such as oyster mushrooms have been well reported to have vast therapeutic and nutritive importance due to their bioactive constituents. Today, many interesting facts are also emerging regarding their importance in pest control. In this study,Pleurotus floridanus,P. ostreatusandP. sajor‐cajuwere studied for exopolysacharide (EPS) and antioxidant production under different carbon sources, and assayed for larvicidal properties.

RESULTS

We observed a positive response of these mushrooms to carbon sources. The highest EPS was produced byP. sajor‐cajuunder sucrose carbon source, whereasP. ostreatusandP. floridanuspreferred glucose. The antioxidant activity of their EPS was confirmed using radical scavenging of 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl and potassium ferricyanide reduction methods. We also established the inhibition of lipid peroxidation by the EPS produced by these mushrooms, although this was concentration dependent, whileP. floridanusEPS had the highest antioxidant properties. An EPS concentration of 100 mg L−1from all the mushrooms was sufficient for inhibition of lipid peroxidation; this also showed a significant difference from the scavenging effect of butylated hydroxytoluene. All the mushroom extracts in this study had positive inhibitory effects on the late third and early fourth stages ofAnopheles gambiae. However, they were significantly different from each other asP. floridanusrecorded a lethal concentration (LC50) of 0.0.563,P. ostreatushad an LC50of 0.352, whileP. sajor‐cajuhad an LC50of 0.715.

CONCLUSION

This study affirms the influence of carbon source on EPS production by selected oyster mushrooms, and reveals their antioxidant properties and potential applications in pest control. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
New insights into moisture sorption characteristics, nutritional composition, and antioxidant and morphological properties of dried duckweed [Wolffia arrhiza (L.) Wimm]
Authors: Masavang Supuksorn , Winckler Pascale , Tira‐umphon Arak , Phahom Traiphop
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Duckweed has been considered as an alternative future food material as a result of its high nutritional values, although it also has a high moisture content resulting in a short shelf life. Moisture sorption isotherms are used to design dehydration and storage conditions to prolong the shelf life food products. To date, information regarding the sorption isotherm of duckweed has not been reported. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is frequently used to study food microstructure. However, this technique has to be performed under high‐vacuum conditions and takes a long time. In the present study, two‐photon imaging microscopy was selected to investigate the microstructure of dried duckweed instead of SEM.

RESULTS

Among five sorption isotherm models, the Peleg model gave the highest goodness of fit. The monolayer moisture content (M0) of duckweed was in the range 7.43–7.92% dry basis (d.b.) and 8.87–8.86% d.b. for the GAB and BET multilayer kinetic models, respectively. The moisture changing behavior at each relative humidity step could be described by two exponential and reaction order kinetics. A clear cell structure (hexagonal shape) and stomata, as well as structural images (both 2D and 3D), were obtained using the two‐photon microscopy technique.

CONCLUSION

The Peleg model best described the moisture sorption behaviors of dried duckweed and the shape of sorption isotherms were classified as type III isotherm. The M0 of dried duckweed ranged from 7.43 to 8.86% d.b. Two‐photon microscopy was a potent tool for investigating the microstructure and composition of dried duckweed. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Surgical phocomelia or phoco‐reduction as a method of limb salvage for sarcomas of the upper limb: A suitable alternative to amputation
Authors: Kapoor Love , Banjara Roshan , Kumar Venkatesan S. , Khan Shah A.
Published: October 2021

Background

Reconstruction following resection of sarcomas of the upper extremity with methods described in the prevalent literature may not be possible in few selected cases. We describe surgical phocomelia or phoco‐reduction as a method of limb salvage in such cases of extensive sarcomas of the upper limb with its functional and oncological outcomes.

Methods

Evaluation of functional and oncological outcomes was performed for 11 patients who underwent surgical phocomelia or phoco‐reduction for extensive sarcomas of the upper limb between 2010 and 2019.

Results

The mean follow‐up period in the study was 27.8 months. Five patients required a segmental resection including the entire humerus while six patients underwent segmental resection around the elbow with a mean resection length of 21.5 cm. Mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society 93 score was 22 depicting a good functional outcome. Mean handgrip strength on the operated side was 62% of the contralateral side with preservation of useful hand function. Meantime to humeroulnar union was 6.7 months. Radial nerve palsy and implant failure occurred in one patient each. No patient developed local recurrence while three patients died of metastasis.

Conclusion

Surgical phocomelia is a prudent alternative to severely incapacitating amputations in situations where other reconstruction methods are not feasible.
The spatiotemporal patterns and pathways of forest transition in China
Authors: Lu Longhui , Marcos‐Martinez Raymundo , Xu Yueqing , Huang An , Duan Yaming , Ji Zhengxin , Huang Ling
Published: October 2021

China experienced a shift from net forest losses to gains (forest transition) between 1976 and 1981. Such transition has increased timber volume in natural forests and expanded the provision of forests ecosystem services. However, the timing, magnitude, and impact of the forest transition varied at provincial scales due to heterogeneous socio‐economic and institutional conditions. The aim of this study is to quantify the impact of spatial drivers of forest transition in China through integrated comparative and spatial regression methods. This approach allows the documentation of feedbacks and interactions of theoretical pathways to forest transition at different geographical scales, which is of relevance for large‐scale land restoration efforts. Our analysis also accounts for changes in forest volumes, a parameter that is usually not studied in the forest transition literature. Here, we used key indicators of demographic, economic, agricultural, and urbanization processes coupled with forest area data to investigate factors influencing forest transitions at multiple geographic scales between 1973 and 2013. Stepwise and geographically weighted regression models were adapted to quantify the key drivers' integrated and distributed magnitude effects on forest transition patterns, respectively. We assessed changes across forest types (i.e., primary and secondary forests, plantation forests) and investigated pathways to forest transition at provincial scales. The results indicate that increasing demand for timber and other forest ecosystem services, rising gross domestic product and population, forest policy, and increasing employment in the industry and service sectors generated multiple pathways to forest transition. The impact of those drivers varied within provinces, and some transition pathways were more relevant than others at sub‐national scales. Despite the Country scale shift to net forest gains, the loss of natural forests continued in some provinces (e.g., Guangdong, Guangxi) until recent years. The loss of ecosystem services from mature forests offset some of the benefits of China's forest transition. Coordinated forest management strategies across political jurisdictions could speed up the path to net forest gains, reduce trade‐offs of forest transitions processes, and achieve sustainable afforestation processes. Such an effort could have significant contributions to the preservation and increase of key forest ecosystem services for the Country and the world.
Ecological network analysis to assess the restoration success of disturbed mine soil in Zoucheng, China
Authors: Ma Jing , Gonzalez‐Ollauri Alejandro , Zhang Qi , Xiao Dong , Chen Fu
Published: October 2021

Understanding the interactions among soil microbial species and how they respond to land reclamation is essential to evaluate the success of ecological restoration actions in disturbed mine soil. In this study, we strived to reveal the interactions among soil bacterial communities along the reclamation timeline of a coal mine in Zoucheng, China. To do so, we investigated changes in the composition of soil bacterial over time and constructed molecular ecological networks (i.e., microbial network) following mining soil reclamation into agricultural land. The relationships between microbial networks and selected soil attributes (i.e., soil pH, electric conductivity, organic matter, soil nutrients and enzymatic activities) were also analyzed. The results showed that the composition of soil bacteria changed significantly along the reclamation timeline. The microbial network profile revealed that Acidobacteria, Planctomycetes and Proteobacteria were the key microbial populations. Soil pH, soil organic matter content, soil dehydrogenase and urease activities were significantly correlated (0.001 ≤ p < 0.05) with the microbial network structure, suggesting that the microbial networks found influenced the provision of relevant soil ecological functions after reclamation. The variation in complexity of the microbial networks along the reclamation timeline revealed that microbial development was promoted by the shift in land use from mining into agriculture. Overall, our findings shed light on how soil microbial communities and networks change following mine reclamation into agricultural land. The results presented herein will undoubtedly aid in the establishment of success indicators of ecological restoration activities in disturbed mining soil.
A Fréchet derivative‐based novel approach to option pricing models in illiquid markets
Authors: Gulen Seda , Sari Murat
Published: October 2021

Nonlinear option pricing models have been increasingly concerning in financial industries since they build more accurate values by regarding more realistic assumptions such as transaction cost, market liquidity, or uncertain volatility. This study defines a nonclassical numerical method to effectively capture the behavior of the nonlinear option pricing model in illiquid markets where the implementation of a dynamic hedging strategy affects the price of the underlying asset. Unlike the conventional numerical approaches, this study describes a numerical scheme based on the Newton iteration technique and the Fréchet derivative for linearization of the model. The linearized time‐dependent PDE is then discretized by a sixth‐order finite difference scheme in space and a second‐order trapezoidal rule in time. The computations revealed that the current approach appears to be somewhat more effective to some extent and at the same time economical for illustrative examples compared to the existing competitors. In addition, this method helps to prevent considering the convergence issues of the Newton approach applied to the nonlinear algebraic system.
Scan‐specific artifact reduction in k‐space (SPARK) neural networks synergize with physics‐based reconstruction to accelerate MRI
Authors: Arefeen Yamin , Beker Onur , Cho Jaejin , Yu Heng , Adalsteinsson Elfar , Bilgic Berkin
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To develop a scan‐specific model that estimates and corrects k‐space errors made when reconstructing accelerated MRI data.

Methods

Scan‐specific artifact reduction in k‐space (SPARK) trains a convolutional‐neural‐network to estimate and correct k‐space errors made by an input reconstruction technique by back‐propagating from the mean‐squared‐error loss between an auto‐calibration signal (ACS) and the input technique’s reconstructed ACS. First, SPARK is applied to generalized autocalibrating partially parallel acquisitions (GRAPPA) and demonstrates improved robustness over other scan‐specific models, such as robust artificial‐neural‐networks for k‐space interpolation (RAKI) and residual‐RAKI. Subsequent experiments demonstrate that SPARK synergizes with residual‐RAKI to improve reconstruction performance. SPARK also improves reconstruction quality when applied to advanced acquisition and reconstruction techniques like 2D virtual coil (VC‐) GRAPPA, 2D LORAKS, 3D GRAPPA without an integrated ACS region, and 2D/3D wave‐encoded imaging.

Results

SPARK yields SSIM improvement and 1.5 – 2× root mean squared error (RMSE) reduction when applied to GRAPPA and improves robustness to ACS size for various acceleration rates in comparison to other scan‐specific techniques. When applied to advanced reconstruction techniques such as residual‐RAKI, 2D VC‐GRAPPA and LORAKS, SPARK achieves up to 20% RMSE improvement. SPARK with 3D GRAPPA also improves RMSE performance by ~2×, SSIM performance, and perceived image quality without a fully sampled ACS region. Finally, SPARK synergizes with non‐Cartesian, 2D and 3D wave‐encoding imaging by reducing RMSE between 20% and 25% and providing qualitative improvements.

Conclusion

SPARK synergizes with physics‐based acquisition and reconstruction techniques to improve accelerated MRI by training scan‐specific models to estimate and correct reconstruction errors in k‐space.
Prevalence of subjective impairments of the sense of smell and taste in employees of retirement and nursing homes during SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic
Authors: Jungbauer Frederic , Huber Lena , Lammert Anne , Ludwig Sonja , Rotter Nicole , Zaubitzer Lena , Schell Angela
Published: October 2021

Aim

To investigate the usability of querying subjective impairments of the sense of smell and taste in order to improve pre‐test probability in testing for SARS‐CoV‐2. To achieve this, exploring the prevalence of these restrictions in the COVID‐19‐negative population, as well as nasal co‐symptoms.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was carried out as part of the secondary prophylaxis, following the STROBE guidelines of the EQUATOR network.

Methods

In total, 1,734 employees of retirement and nursing homes were tested for COVID‐19 and asked for subjective reduction or loss in the sense of smell and taste, furthermore about nasal co‐symptoms such as nasal obstruction and rhinorrhoea.

Results

All employees tested negative for COVID‐19. Subjective hyposmia and hypogeusia rarely occurred and were usually accompanied by other nasal symptoms such as nasal obstruction. Querying subjective hyposmia/anosmia or hypogeusia/ageusia appears to be a useful anamnestic instrument for the clinical assessment of the probability of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.