bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Too great to be guilty? Individuals high in collective narcissism demand closure regarding the past to attenuate collective guilt
Authors: Kazarovytska Fiona , Imhoff Roland
Published: March 2022

While the Holocaust is widely regarded by Germans as one of the worst human atrocities, they differ in their readiness to express collective guilt or, in contrast, in their demand to close this chapter of history. We propose that such a demand for historical closure (HC) is particularly pronounced among individuals high in collective narcissism, and is systematically related to reduced collective guilt. Across three studies (N = 1,383), collective narcissism was significantly related to demand for HC, even when controlling for national identification and national pride. Moreover, collective narcissism was associated with reduced guilt only via demand for HC, but not via the defensive strategies of moral delegitimization of the victims or demand for recognition of the perpetrator group's suffering. Yet collective narcissism was associated via all three defensive strategies with fewer actual donations to support Holocaust survivors. We discuss how demanding HC helps group members to shield their ingroup from its negative past, thus alleviating aversive feelings of collective guilt.
Radiobiological features in offspring of natural populations of Drosophila melanogaster after Chernobyl accident
Authors: Yushkova Elena
Published: March 2022

In their natural habitats, populations of organisms are faced with different levels of chronic low‐intensity radiation, causing a wide range of radiobiological effects (from radiosensitivity to radioadaptive response and hormesis). In this study, specimens of Drosophila melanogaster were selected from territories of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant with different levels of radioactive contamination. The isogenic stocks derived from these specimens represent the genetic systems of current populations and make it possible to study radioresistance and its mechanisms in future generations under controlled laboratory conditions. Previous studies have shown that transgenerational radiation effects at the level of lethal mutations and survival rate are unstable and depend not only on the level of chronic low‐intensity irradiation, but also on other factors. A single acute irradiation exposure of offspring whose parents inhabited a site with a higher level of chronic irradiation made it possible to reveal pronounced radioresistant features in the offspring. And the offspring whose parents were exposed to radiation levels close to the natural radiation background, on the contrary, acquired radiosensitive features. Their response to acute exposure includes a high‐frequency of lethal mutations and a short lifespan. The differential response to different levels of chronic parental exposure is caused by differences in the activities of certain transposons that destabilize the genome. Our data contribute to the understanding of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms (via transposon activity) of the effect of parental radiation exposure on the health and adaptive potential of populations affected by the technogenically increased radiation background.
Effects of parent well spacing on the poroelastic behaviors in the infill zone in shale oil reservoirs: A case study in Jimsar Shale Oil, China
Authors: Wang Zhenlin , Guo Xuyang , Zheng Guoqing , Yu Peirong , Wang Wei , Jin Yan , Chen Gang
Published: March 2022

Shale oil resources are usually developed by tightly spaced horizontal wells that are hydraulically fractured. Infill wells are often used to develop the zones not thoroughly produced by previously fractured parent wells, and determining the parent well spacing has become a key issue in the field as it affects the overall fracturing and production efficiency. This study employs a coupled flow and geomechanics model to investigate the poroelastic changes induced by parent well depletion in the infill zone. Based on poromechanics, the temporal and spatial changes in pore pressure, minimum horizontal principal stress, breakdown pressure, and maximum horizontal principal stress orientation are quantified. Pore pressure is used to estimate the remaining hydrocarbon exploitation potential in the infill zone, while minimum horizontal principal stress, breakdown pressure, and maximum horizontal principal stress orientation are used to estimate the difficulties of establishing hydraulic fracture networks in the infill zone. Results show that increasing parent well spacing helps to maintain the pore pressure in the infill zone, while the difficulties of initiating hydraulic fracture networks in the infill zone are slightly increased. Tight well spacing intensifies the infill zone depletion and lowers the infill well development potential, while the breakdown pressure is decreased which can facilitate future infill well fracturing. The poroelastic effect of parent well spacings on the infill zone is not monotonic.
Experimental study on the shear‐slip characteristics of natural fractures in shale reservoirs
Authors: Shi Zhaolong , Chen Junbin , Gong Diguang , He Shunan , Jiang Xu , Sun Chen , Fan Lingyi
Published: March 2022

The injection of high‐pressure fluid and the propagation of hydraulic fractures (HF) can impact the stress state of natural fractures (NF) in shale reservoirs, which will lead to shear slip in NF that are in a critical stress state. However, the NF mechanics response mechanism during hydraulic fracture (HF) approximation has not been well investigated, especially under triaxial stress and injection conditions. This work focuses on the NF shear‐slip characteristics during HF through experimental investigation. Each shale sample contains a single rough NF in the tests, and high‐pressure fluid is injected through a pre‐drilled hole at the top of the sample. Meanwhile, the deformation (axial deformation and radial deformation), axial stress, and injection pressure of the sample during the experiment were recorded in real‐time. The experimental results show that the NF will initiate in tension or shear mode during the HF approaching process, and the fracture will produce shear slip in both initiation modes. In addition, the deviator stress, confining pressure, hydraulic fracture approach angle, and fracture surface roughness all affect the degree of shear slip in natural fractures (NF). The results further reveal the mechanical response mechanism of NF during hydraulic fracturing and provide a reference for optimizing hydraulic fracturing process measures.
Influence of cobalt chromium nanoparticles in homogeneous charge compression ignition engine operated with citronella oil
Authors: Senthur N.S. , Anand C , Ramesh Kumar M , Elumalai P.V. , Shajahan Mohamed Iqbal , Benim Ali Cemal , Nasr Emad Abouel , Hussein H.M.A. , Parthasarathy M.
Published: March 2022

Stringent emission standards and greater fuel economy have forced scientists to develop an advanced combustion technology (homogeneous charge compression ignition; HCCI) useful in internal combustion engines in the future. Citronella biodiesel prepared through transesterification process which is auspicious an energy source for the CI engine. Cobalt chromium nanoparticles were mixed with the biodiesel at 30 ppm with the help of an ultrasonicator. The present experimental investigation was conducted to analyze various performance (brake thermal efficiency (BTE) and brake‐specific fuel consumption (BSFC)), combustion (pressure and heat release rate (HRR)), and emission (unburnt hydrocarbon (UBHC), CO, NOx, and smoke) parameters of the HCCI engine with neat diesel, CBD 5% (citronella biodiesel 5% + 95% diesel), CBD 10% (citronella biodiesel 10% + 90% diesel), CBD 15% (citronella biodiesel 15% + 85% diesel), CBD 20% (citronella biodiesel 20% + 80% diesel), and CBD 15% + C30 (citronella biodiesel 15% + 85% diesel +30 ppm cobalt). To carry out the experiment, a fuel vaporizer was adopted in a 5.2 kW, 1500 rpm, single‐cylinder, four‐stroke, vertical, direct‐injection diesel engine. Nanoparticles were used to improve surface area/volume ratio, heat conduction, and heat transfer rate within the oil layers. The result showed that CBD 15% had given better results than the other citronella biodiesel‐blended fuels. CBD 15% + C30 fuel increased the BTE and HRR by 5.49% and 6.8%, respectively, due to a shorter ignition delay and greater cetane number of the fuel. The percentage of BSFC, UBHC, CO, NOx, and smoke was decreased by 33.33%, 34.32%, 5.1%, and 17.34%, respectively, compared to neat biodiesel in the HCCI engine at 80% load.
Comprehensive thermoeconomic, exergoeconomic, and optimization analyses of direct oxy‐combustion supercritical CO2 intercooled and reheated cycles under design and off‐design conditions
Authors: Al‐Ammari Wahib A. , Sleiti Ahmad K.
Published: March 2022

This study presents comprehensive energetic, exergetic, exergoeconomic, and economic (4E) performance analyses for four direct oxy‐combustion (DOC) supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) power cycles at design, off‐design, and part‐load conditions. These cycles include the dual recuperator cycle (DRC), intercooling cycle (ICC), partial intercooling cycle (PIC), and reheating cycle (RHC). The analyses were conducted at relatively low turbine inlet temperatures (TIT: 550–750°C) with compressor inlet temperature (CIT) varied from 33°C (wet‐cooling) to 50°C (dry‐cooling). Furthermore, single‐ and multiobjective optimization analyses were conducted for each cycle. At design conditions (high‐pressure of Pc,o = 20 MPa, low‐pressure of Pc,o = 5.4 MPa, TIT = 750°C, CIT = 50°C [dry‐cooling]), the PIC has the highest thermal efficiency (47.78%) compared to 38.36% for DRC, 45.71% for ICC, and 44.39% for RHC. At optimized conditions (Pc,o = 30 MPa, Pc,o = 8 MPa, TIT = 744°C, CIT = 30°C [wet‐cooling]), the ICC shows superior energetic performance (52.08%) compared to 47.97% for DRC, 49.20% for PIC, and 48.62% for RHC. At off‐design conditions with a power demand (PD) of 40% of the design load (50 MW), the thermal efficiency is decreased by 21.82% in DRC, 17.71% in ICC, 22.46% in PIC, and 13.60% in RHC. The ICC has the minimum levelized cost of electricity compared to the other cycles with 5.93 ¢/kWh at design conditions (dry‐cooling), 5.65 ¢/kWh at optimized conditions (wet‐cooling), and 7.2 ¢/kWh at minimum PD (21 MW). Therefore, from an economic point of view, the ICC is recommended as the best power block for a sCO2 power cycle driven by oxy‐combustor at moderate TITs. The study also provides constructive comparisons between the DOC‐sCO2 and indirect (nuclear, solar, and waste heat) sCO2 power cycle systems and the future research directions.
Research on prediction methods of formation pore pressure based on machine learning
Authors: Huang Honglin , Li Jun , Yang Hongwei , Wang Biao , Gao Reyu , Luo Ming , Li Wentuo , Zhang Geng , Liu Liu
Published: March 2022

Formation pressure is the most fundamental data in oil and gas drilling and production; it has an important position in the entire cycle of oil and gas extraction. However, most current prediction methods are limited to parametric methods with fixed models; such that the accuracy does not meet requirements. This is especially true for deeper layers of marine sedimentary basins where the safety density window is extremely narrow. In this study, we propose a novel method to predict pore pressure using machine learning techniques. For the first time, the effective stress (direct output variable) was accurately predicted by a combination of four input variables (2900 sets of data, of which 90% is the training subset and 10% is the testing subset), including longitudinal velocity, porosity, mud content, and density. As such, an accurate prediction of the formation pressure was achieved based on the effective stress theorem. The performance of machine learning techniques was verified by comparing and analyzing the prediction results with traditional parametric single and multivariate models; whereby the best algorithm was chosen by structural optimization and comparative analysis of five algorithms (multilayer perceptron neural network, radial basis neural network, support vector machine, random forest, and gradient boosting machine). Compared with the methods based on parametric one‐dimensional and multivariate models, the machine learning‐based method was determined to possess high accuracy, adequate self‐adaptation, and high fault tolerance (D2 = 0.9981, RMSE = 0.00718 g/cm3). Moreover, the multilayer perceptual neural network algorithm outperformed other machine learning algorithms in terms of goodness of fit, generalization, and prediction accuracy, with D2 = 0.9981 and RMSE = 0.00709 g/cm3. The formation pressure prediction model developed in this study is not affected by the mechanical depositional environment and is applicable to sandy mudstone formations, such that it can be a useful and highly accurate alternative to the traditional formation pressure prediction methods with fixed parameter forms.
Development and assessment of renewable hydrogen production and natural gas blending systems for use in different locations
Authors: Sorgulu Fatih , Dincer Ibrahim
Published: March 2022

In this study, a thermoeconomic assessment of renewable energy‐based hydrogen generation and blending it with natural gas in the existing pipeline system is performed for various locations. Selected locations are compared in energy content, environmental impact, and cost. In this regard, solar photovoltaic panels and wind turbines are integrated with electrolyzers along with the reverse osmosis units. The clean hydrogen produced by the electrolyzers is then blended with natural gas and utilized for residential applications in an environmentally benign way. Also, the heat required for a community consisting of 100 houses is provided by a boiler by hydrogen and natural gas blend as fuel. The costs of capital, fuel, operation and maintenance are calculated and comparatively evaluated. The results show that the total net present costs for the integrated systems are calculated to be between $3.01 million and $4.36 million in the selected five different locations. Furthermore, an environmental impact assessment is conducted in terms of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, unburned hydrocarbons, and particulate matter. Finally, the CO2 emissions are calculated to be varying from 443.2 to 491.9 tons/year.
Total Mercury, Total Selenium, and Monomethylmercury Relationships in Multiple Age Cohorts and Tissues of Steller Sea Lions (Eumetopias jubatus)
Authors: Castellini J. Margaret , Rea Lorrie D. , Avery Julie P. , O'Hara Todd M.
Published: March 2022

Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) tissue mercury concentrations increasingly above thresholds of concern occur in regions of Alaska where lack of population recovery is noted. Selenium–monomethylmercury interactions may mitigate toxicosis but may also result in functional selenium deficiency, impacting essential selenium-dependent processes. Physiologically driven differences in tissue concentrations (organotropism) of total mercury ([THg]), total selenium ([TSe]), and monomethylmercury ([MeHg+]) confound interpretation for various age cohorts. Archived tissues from Alaska Steller sea lions (2002–2016) were used to compare [THg], [MeHg+], and [TSe] across age cohorts and tissue types. Liver [THg] ranged from 0.05 to 63.7 µg/g. Fetal and pup livers had significantly lower [THg] and [TSe], higher percentage MeHg+, and greater range of molar TSe:THg than subadult and adult livers. Molar Se:MeHg+ ratios, including Se in excess of nonmethylmercury, were dependent on [MeHg+] in fetuses and pups. While [THg] varied significantly by muscle type (heart vs. skeletal) and anatomical location, concentrations were strongly correlated. Biomagnification and/or bioaccumulation of THg in liver of older animals confounded comparison with other tissues; however, in fetal and pup liver [THg] correlated with other tissues. In contrast, liver [MeHg+] correlated with other tissues across all age classes. Fetal and pup tissues, which reflect in utero exposure and are subject to limited bioaccumulation, are ideal for assessing mercury exposure related to dam diet, including intertissue comparison, and represent key cohorts of concern. Evaluating [MeHg+] and [TSe] in tissues from multiple age cohorts allows better intertissue comparison, providing insight into time courses, routes of exposure, and potential for adverse effects. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1477–1489. © 2022 SETAC

Abstract

Chemically and physiologically driven differences in total mercury, monomethylmercury (MeHg+), and total selenium concentrations between age cohorts and tissues (organotropism) of Steller sea lions may confound comparisons between animals and tissues. A One Health perspective benefits from concurrent measurements of analytes. This is key to separating effects of long-term bioaccumulation of non-MeHg+; to interpreting more immediate routes of exposure, potential biotransformation of ingested mercury, and potential for adverse effects; and to assessing food security for pinniped consumers in Alaska. THg = total mercury; TSe = total selenium.
Impact of Romanov breed lamb gender on carcass traits and meat quality parameters including biogenic amines and malondialdehyde changes during storage
Authors: Klupsaite Dovile , Buckiuniene Vilija , Bliznikas Saulius , Sidlauskiene Sonata , Dauksiene Agila , Klementaviciute Jolita , Jurkevicius Andrius , Zaborskiene Gintare , Bartkiene Elena
Published: March 2022

The present study aims to evaluate the effect of Romanov breed lamb gender on carcass traits and meat quality parameters, as well as on the formation of biogenic amines (BAs) and malondialdehyde during meat storage. Obtained results revealed that lamb gender had a significant influence on sternum/breastbone, ribs, right shoulder, and bones of the back leg. Significantly higher lightness (by 3%) was found for male meat; however, higher redness of female meat was observed (by 7.7%). In all cases, a lower pH was obtained for female meat. Significantly higher cooking loss (by 38%) was found for male meat. However, gender was not a significant factor in lamb meat proximate composition, or for BAs and cholesterol content. The gender of animals had a significant influence on 10‐heptadecenoic (C17:1), linoleic (C18:2n – 6), total polyunsaturated FA, and total trans isomers content in meat. A significantly higher concentration of malondialdehyde was found in female lamb meat (by 43.4% and 56.8% in fresh and after 3 months of storage at −18°C, respectively) compared to males. Finally, the obtained results supplement the scarce database about the characteristics of Romanov breed meat of different gender and this is beneficial for lamb breeders and meat industry in order to obtain a better quality production.
Elaboration of an organic beverage based on grape juice with positive nutritional properties
Authors: Bendaali Yasmina , Vaquero Cristian , González Carmen , Morata Antonio
Published: March 2022

The present study aimed to develop a natural beverage with interesting phytochemical composition and biological activity based on grape juice without added sugars or artificial additives. Two groups of blends were made by diluting concentrate grape juice with a sugar content of 65 °Brix with two different mineral waters (BA: Bezoya with low mineralization; BB: Solan de Cabras with high mineralization). Lemon juice was used for pH correction, and mixtures of extractions of hop with tea and hop with mint were used to increase aroma. Samples were stored under refrigeration (4°C) then subjected to physicochemical and sensory analysis. The results demonstrated that malvidin‐3‐O‐glucoside pigment was the predominant pigment with a concentration ranging from 75.71 ± 12.49 to 84.87 ± 1.70 mg/L. The levels of sugars ranged from 79.90 ± 1.37 to 82.37 ± 0.55 g/L and total soluble solids were between 5.47 ± 0.12 and 5.77 ± 0.06 °Brix. Total acids presented a significant difference, ranging from 1.40 ± 0.00 to 1.43 ± 0.06 g/L in BA samples and from 1.10 ± 0.10 to 1.20 ± 0.00 g/L in BB samples. For 20 days, the color increased in all beverages. However, BA drinks presented higher acidity and higher red color intensity than BB drinks, so the type of water and pH influenced the color of beverages. The sensory evaluation showed that the beverage made with low mineral water and flavored with a mixture of hop with tea was preferred.
Stability and variability of long‐term streamflow and its components in watersheds under vegetation restoration on the Chinese Loess Plateau
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Yi Haijie , Xue Fan , Bruijnzeel Leendert Adrian , Cheng Zhuo , Liu Baoyuan
Published: March 2022

Assessing ecological restoration effects on hydrological regimes is important for water resources management, especially under semi‐arid conditions. Here, the stability and long‐term variability of streamflow components were analyzed for three less forested watersheds (LFWs, vegetation coverage 16–23% in 1970) undergoing major vegetation restoration (57–80% coverage in 2019), and for two largely forested watersheds (FWs, 65–68% cover in 1970 increasing to 88–92% in 2019) within the Beiluo River Basin on the Chinese Loess Plateau. Daily flow data for each watershed and year were normalized by rainfall to eliminate effects of non‐stationary rainfall. Mean annual streamflow totals for the ~60‐year study period were 25.1–34.1 and 21.6–48.1 mm y−1 for the LFWs and FWs, respectively. Average contributions of baseflow to total streamflow were 32–44% for the LFWs and 58–61% for the FWs. Mann‐Kendall tests showed significant decreasing trends for annual streamflow and stormflow (0.23–0.54% y−1) from the LFWs throughout. Mean streamflow from the LFWs between 2000 and 2019 decreased by 58% compared to the pre‐2000 period, while the average contribution of stormflow decreased from 66% to 35% (2010s). However, winter baseflow increased with time since start of restoration. Conversely, streamflow (components) for the FWs showed only slight fluctuations in decadal, annual and seasonal trends. Both total streamflow and stormflow exhibited strong power relationships with vegetation coverage, illustrating a tendency towards stable flow regimes for vegetation coverage >60–70%. Large‐scale vegetation restoration has fundamentally changed amounts and temporal distribution of streamflow (components) on the Loess Plateau mainly by regulating stormflow. After 20 years of restoration, the trend and proportion of streamflow components from the LFWs approximated those of the FWs. These results underpin the planning of sustainable management of natural resources vis‐á‐vis socio‐economic development during long‐term ecological restoration on the Loess Plateau.
Describing correlates of early childhood screen time and outdoor time in Soweto, South Africa
Authors: Prioreschi Alessandra , Norris Shane A.
Published: March 2022

Background

Contextual factors are likely to influence whether young children are able to adhere to recommended health behaviours. This study aimed to: (1) describe the social and environmental characteristics of children under five living in Soweto, South Africa; and (2) determine factors associated with screen time and outdoor play in this population.

Methods

Household surveys were conducted in Soweto to collect data on children's screen time and access to outdoor space, as well as information about the household. A multilevel regression analysis was conducted for each outcome.

Results

Data on 2309 children aged five or under were included in this analysis. Children used screens for an average of one and a half hours per day during the week, and nearly 2 hours per day on weekends. Almost all (92%) children had a safe space to play inside, while just over a third (34%) had a safe space to play outside. A higher socioeconomic status was associated with less time spent playing outside and more screen time.

Conclusion

Interventions promoting outdoor play and restricting screen time are essential for improving health trajectories, but need to address structural barriers that exist, in order to protect the safety of children while promoting health behaviours.
Hapten sensitization to vaginal mucosa induces less recruitment of dendritic cells accompanying TGF‐β‐expressing CD206+ cells compared with skin
Authors: Nakayama Kanako , Nishijo Taku , Miyazawa Masaaki , Watabe Tetsuro , Azuma Miyuki , Sakaguchi Hitoshi
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Contact hypersensitivity (CHS), a type of delayed‐type hypersensitivity, is induced by hapten exposure to the skin and mucosa. We previously reported that, in a murine model of CHS, the vaginal mucosa (VM) sensitization showed lower T‐cell responses as compared with the abdominal skin sensitization. To investigate mechanisms of impaired CHS by the VM sensitization, we compared migration of hapten‐captured dendritic cells (DCs) in the draining lymph nodes (dLNs) and recruitment of DCs at the sensitized local sites.

Methods

Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) or 2,4‑dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) was used as hapten, and migration of FITC+ DCs in the dLNs and local recruitment of MHC class II+ and CD11c+ cells were compared between abdominal skin and VM sensitization by flow cytometric analyses and immunohistochemistry. Expression of tumor growth factor (TGF)‐β at mRNA and protein levels, and local recruitment of CD206+ cells were examined after VM sensitization.

Results

VM sensitization showed less numbers of FITC+MHC class IIhighCD11c+ migratory DCs in the dLNs at 6 and 24 h, as compared with skin sensitization. Both skin and VM sensitization induced the recruitment of dermal/submucosal DCs at 6 h, but the number of submucosal DCs in the VM was significantly decreased at 24 h. VM showed persistently higher mRNA levels of TGF‐β2/β3 expression than those of the skin before and after sensitization. In the VM sensitization, increment of CD206+MHC class II+ cells was observed especially at the deep lamina propria at 24 h. Most of CD206+ cells were also positive for the binding to Fc chimeric TGF‐β receptor that interacts with all TGF‐β isoforms, suggesting TGF‐β expression.

Conclusion

DC migration to dLNs and localization of DCs at the sensitized sites are limited in the VM sensitization. Our results suggest that the existence of TGF‐β‐expressing CD206+ cells may contribute less sensitization ability and CHS responses in the VM.
A review of the efficacy of easily accessible dry decontaminants for human chemical contamination
Authors: Nandamuri Saisha , Feschuk Aileen M. , Maibach Howard I.
Published: March 2022

Soap and water are often considered the gold standard for dermal decontamination. However, recent systematic reviews have shown that these methods often result in incomplete decontamination and may even induce contaminant absorption due to the “wash‐in” effect. Therefore, it is important to gain insight on other decontamination methods. A literature search was done using PubMed to find experimental studies relating to dry decontamination performed with readily available items. Seven studies met eligibility criteria, and the study model, dry decontaminant, method of dry decontamination, method of analyzing decontamination, and main conclusions from each study were extracted, summarized, and compared. Important conclusions include that all studies investigated found that dry decontamination yielded decreases in contamination. In addition, it was shown by multiple studies that not only the decontaminant, but the manner in which it is used (method used [blotting, rubbing, etc.], amount used, and whether decontamination instructions are provided to exposed individuals) is vital to success. Finally, in all four studies that investigated wet and dry decontamination combination protocols, combinations were more efficacious than dry decontamination alone. However, this means that dry improvised decontamination can be performed while waiting for the deployment and arrival of further formal decontaminants. These conclusions deserve consideration in the event that universal decontamination guidelines are designed. However, more studies are required in order to draw definitive conclusions regarding the important topic of dermal decontamination.
Alinity hq platelet count is not impacted by severe microcytosis
Authors: Lakos Gabriella , Mukhtar Zainab , Masi Loredana , Valente Sabatino , Papa Fabrizio
Published: March 2022

Background

Impedance technology has been shown to overestimate platelet (PLT) count in samples with microcytes, while the optical‐fluorescence PLT count (PLT‐F) by Sysmex has been suggested to be unaffected by microcytosis. The Abbott Alinity hq analyzer employs multi‐dimensional optical PLT counting. Our goal was to assess the accuracy of this technology in microcytic samples.

Methods

Platelet measurements were performed by Alinity hq and the impedance (PLT‐I) and PLT‐F methods on a Sysmex XN‐3000 analyzer on 464 samples. PLT concentration range was 6.56–947 × 109/L and mean cell volume (MCV) 40.9–123.0 fL. Samples were categorized into normocytic (MCV > 80 fL), microcytic (MCV 65–80 fL), and severely microcytic (MCV < 65 fL) groups.

Results

Alinity hq PLT count showed excellent agreement with PLT‐F (r = 1.00). Sysmex PLT‐I data showed somewhat weaker correlation with both PLT‐F and Alinity hq (r = 0.98). Increasing bias between Sysmex PLT‐I and PLT‐F was seen with decreasing MCV values, with mean bias of 35.2 × 109/L in severe microcytosis. An inverse relationship was demonstrated between the PLT‐I versus PLT‐F bias and MCV (p < 0.0001). Consistent mean bias was observed between Alinity hq and PLT‐F across all MCV ranges.

Mean platelet volume was suppressed or flagged by Sysmex XN in 50% of the samples in the severely microcytic group, and markedly higher red cell distribution width (RDW) was reported compared to Alinity hq (18.1% vs 13.7%, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The Sysmex PLT‐I method overestimated the PLT count in samples with severe microcytosis. Alinity hq provided PLT counts and PLT and RBC indices that were not impacted by microcytosis.
hsa_circ_0119412 overexpression promotes cervical cancer progression by targeting miR‐217 to upregulate anterior gradient 2
Authors: Lv Yumei , Wang Mingyi , Chen Mingli , Wang Dan , Luo Mingyan , Zeng Qingyuan
Published: March 2022

Background

Mounting evidence summarizes that circRNA is closely implicated in the development of numerous cancers. Our study aimed to investigate the role of circ_0119412 whose function was not explored in cervical cancer.

Methods

RT‐qPCR analysis was utilized for the expression analysis of circ_0119412, miR‐217, and anterior gradient 2 (AGR2). CCK‐8 assay, transwell assay, and MTT assay were employed to assess cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion, respectively. Animal study was performed to check the role of circ_0119412 in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis was applied to predict the downstream targets of circ_0119412. RIP assay was utilized to examine miRNAs potentially bound by circ_0119412. The interplays between miR‐217 and circ_0119412 or AGR2 were validated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay.

Results

circ_0119412 expression was highly enhanced in cervical tumor tissues and cancer cells. circ_0119412 overexpression aggravated cervical cancer cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion, and its overexpression was also conducive to tumor formation and growth in animal models. AGR2 was upregulated in cervical cancer by the public bioinformatics data. circ_0119412 bound to miR‐217, and miR‐217 bound to AGR 3’UTR. The promoting effects of circ_0119412 overexpression on cancer cell malignant phenotypes were reversed by miR‐217 enrichment. In addition, increased expression of miR‐217 suppressed AGR2 expression, thus weakening the functional effects of AGR2.

Conclusion

circ_0119412 functioned as an oncogenic driver to promote the malignant development of cervical cancer by targeting the miR‐217/AGR2 pathway.
Characterization of microchannel plate detector response for the detection of native multiply charged high mass single ions in orthogonal‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry using a Timepix detector
Authors: Mathew Anjusha , Eijkel Gert B. , Anthony Ian G. M. , Ellis Shane R. , Heeren Ron M. A.
Published: March 2022

Time‐of‐flight (TOF) systems are one of the most widely used mass analyzers in native mass spectrometry (nMS) for the analysis of non‐covalent multiply charged bio‐macromolecular assemblies (MMAs). Typically, microchannel plates (MCPs) are employed for high mass native ion detection in TOF MS. MCPs are well known for their reduced detection efficiency when impinged by large slow moving ions. Here, a position‐ and time‐sensitive Timepix (TPX) detector has been added to the back of a dual MCP stack to study the key factors that affect MCP performance for MMA ions generated by nMS. The footprint size of the secondary electron cloud generated by the MCP on the TPX for each individual ion event is analyzed as a measure of MCP performance at each mass‐to‐charge (m/z) value and resulted in a Poisson distribution. This allowed us to investigate the dependency of ion mass, ion charge, ion velocity, acceleration voltage, and MCP bias voltage on MCP response in the high mass low velocity regime. The study of measurement ranges; ion mass = 195 to 802,000 Da, ion velocity = 8.4 to 67.4 km/s, and ion charge = 1+ to 72+, extended the previously examined mass range and characterized MCP performance for multiply charged species. We derived a MCP performance equation based on two independent ion properties, ion mass and charge, from these results, which enables rapid MCP tuning for single MMA ion detection.
Effect of enteral nutrition on the intestinal microbiome and risk of death in ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Tian Xiaolin , Xia Genghong , Zhang Mingsi , Tan Chuhong , Yang Mengjia , Wang Huidi , Song Xinna , Chai Shiqi , Yin Jia , Song Wei
Published: March 2022

Background

Studies have shown that the intestinal microbiome of stroke patients is significantly altered and that the degree of microbiota disturbance correlates with prognosis. Enteral nutrition (EN) can reshape the intestinal microbiome and is important for stroke patients with dysphagia. We aimed to describe the intestinal microbiome in patients with ischemic cerebral infarction receiving standard EN.

Methods

First, 17 healthy controls (HCs), 54 stroke patients with oral feeding (ON), and 50 stroke patients with EN were matched to investigate the changes in the intestinal microbiota with EN in the first week after admission and dynamic changes in the EN group in the second week. Second, we investigated the relationship between the intestinal microbiome and clinical characteristics in a larger sample of participants receiving EN (n = 147). Survival analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards regression. The composition and structure of the intestinal microbiota were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results

Compared with the HC and ON groups, patients with EN exhibited significantly different compositions of the intestinal microbiota in the first week, including enrichment of the opportunistic pathogen Enterococcus and depletion of bacteria such as Lachnospiraceae, and Ruminococcus, which were further depleted in the second week. An increase in Parvimonas and Comamonas abundances was associated with an increased risk of 180‐day mortality.

Conclusions

The intestinal microbiota in ischemic stroke patients receiving EN is significantly altered, and specific strains of bacteria may be associated with prognosis and clinical indicators.
Inhibition of horseradish peroxidase activity through conformational change in surfactant solution
Authors: Wang Jiuxia , Yao Meihuan , Bai Guangyue , Liu Junling , Wang Yujie
Published: March 2022

Surfactants have a considerable potential for inhibiting horseradish peroxidase (HRP) activity; yet, more research is needed to understand the inhibition mechanism to allow for choosing the suitable surfactant candidate as inhibitor. In this study, three traditional surfactants, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), N‐dodecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (DTAB) and N‐dodecyldimethyl (3‐sulfopropyl) ammonium hydroxide (SB3‐12), that share the same (C12) hydrophobic tail but possess different charged head groups, were taken as model surfactant inhibitors, and the enzymatic activity of HRP was assessed in these surfactant solutions. The activity of HRP was inhibited by both anionic SDS and cationic DTAB at dilute concentration even below their critical micelle concentration (cmc), and the electrostatic interaction of the ionic surfactants with some amino residues of HRP was mainly responsible for the inhibition of activity. HRP in a dilute solution of SB3‐12, with the latter's concentration being below its cmc, retained a high level of enzymatic activity; but, at concentrations above the cmc of SB3‐12, HRP was inhibited owing to the synergetic interaction of the SB3‐12 micelle with HRP. Results from circular dichroism (CD) and intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopic analyses of HRP showed the unfolding of the tertiary structure around HRP's heme active site played a critical role in the inhibition, whereas the changes of HRP in the secondary structure and the tertiary structure near its tryptophan residue (Trp117) induced by these surfactants were minor for the inhibition. Based on the experimental results, a relationship between conformation and activity for HRP was suggested.
Effect of biotic stress on the presence of secondary metabolites in field pea grains
Authors: Oliete Bonastre , Lubbers Samuel , Fournier Carine , Jeandroz Sylvain , Saurel Rémi
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

The presence of secondary metabolites responsible for off‐flavours in peas may influence consumers' acceptance. These undesirable compounds may increase due to biotic stress or cultivar. Therefore, grains from two pea (Pisum sativum L.) cultivars (Crécerelle and Firenza) exposed to biotic stress were studied in terms of protein content, electrophoretic polypeptide profile, lipoxygenase activity, saponin content and volatile compounds.

RESULTS

No differences were observed in the electrophoretic polypeptide profile of pea samples across cultivar or biotic stress. The cultivar noticeably affected the volatile compounds and lipoxygenase activity. The biotic stress significantly increased the saponin content.

CONCLUSION

The cultivar showed more noticeable impact on the presence of off‐flavour compounds than the biotic stress. The development of pea protein ingredients needs the thorough choice of raw materials in terms of cultivar and control of biotic stress in order to ensure acceptance by consumers. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Encapsulation of curcumin in soluble soybean polysaccharide‐coated gliadin nanoparticles: interaction, stability, antioxidant capacity, and bioaccessibility
Authors: Guo Siyan , Zhao Yanyan , Luo Shuizhong , Mu Dongdong , Li Xingjiang , Zhong Xiyang , Jiang Shaotong , Zheng Zhi
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Gliadin nanoparticles are used as a delivery system for active substances because of their amphiphilicity and bioavailability. However, they are susceptible to destabilization by external agents. In this study, gliadin nanoparticles stabilized by soluble soybean polysaccharide (SSPS) were prepared by antisolvent precipitation. Formed stable complex nanoparticles were applied to protect and deliver curcumin (Cur).

RESULTS

Gliadin/SSPS nanoparticles with the smallest particle size (196.66 nm, polydispersity index < 0.2) were fabricated when the mass ratio of gliadin to SSPS was 1:1 at pH 5.0. SSPS‐stabilized gliadin nanoparticles had excellent stability at pH 3.0–8.0, 0.02–0.1 mol L−1 NaCl and at 90 °C heat. Gliadin/SSPS nanoparticles were used to encapsulate the Cur. The encapsulation efficiency of the Cur‐loaded gliadin/SSPS nanoparticles was 84.59%. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and fluorescence spectrophotometry showed that the main forces were hydrogen bonds, electrostatic interactions and hydrophobic interactions between gliadin and SSPS. The X‐ray diffraction patterns exhibited that the crystalline form of Cur converted to an amorphous substance. The retention rates of Cur‐loaded gliadin/SSPS nanoparticles reached 79.03%, 73.43% and 87.92% after ultraviolet irradiation for 4 h, heating at 90 °C and storage at 25 °C for 15 days, respectively. Additionally, simulated digestion demonstrated that the bioavailability of gliadin/SSPS‐Cur nanoparticles was four times higher than that of free Cur.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that SSPS improved the stability of gliadin nanoparticles. Gliadin/SSPS nanoparticles have the function of loading and delivering Cur. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry
Downregulation of circLPAR3 inhibits tumor progression and glycolysis by liberating miR‐144‐3p and upregulating LPCAT1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Su Zhijian , Pan Chao , Xie Honghui , Ning Yanyang , Li Shuangjiang , Xiao Haibo
Published: March 2022

Background

Increasing evidence demonstrated the important roles of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in human cancer progression, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The study intentions were to explore the role and molecular mechanism of hsa_circ_0004390 (circLPAR3) in OSCC progression.

Methods

Expression of circLPAR3 in collected samples and cultured cell lines was detected with real‐time quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Loss‐of‐function experiments were performed to determine the effect of circLPAR3 silencing on OSCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, angiopoiesis, and glycolysis. The sponge function of circLPAR3 was predicted by bioinformatics analysis and validated by the dual‐luciferase reporter and RNA pull‐down assays. In vivo experiments were conducted to validate the function of circLPAR3.

Results

A marked increase in circLPAR3 expression was observed in OSCC samples and cell lines. Furthermore, circLPAR3 could distinguish OSCC samples from paired non‐tumor samples, and patients with high circLPAR3 expression had a poor prognosis. Furthermore, circLPAR3 inhibition decreased OSCC growth in xenograft mouse models. Moreover, circLPAR3 silencing repressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiopoiesis, glycolysis, and induced cell apoptosis in OSCC cells in vitro. Mechanically, circLPAR3 sponged miR‐144‐3p to prohibit the inhibiting effect of miR‐144‐3p on LPCAT1, thus promoting OSCC progression.

Conclusion

CircLPAR3 exerted a tumor‐promoting effect on OSCC growth through elevating LPCAT1 expression via functioning as a miR‐144‐3p sponge. This study supports the possible role of circLPAR3 in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of OSCC.
Environmental air pollution and chronic rhinosinusitis: A systematic review
Authors: Leland Evelyn M. , Vohra Varun , Seal Stella M. , Zhang Zhenyu , Ramanathan Murugappan
Published: March 2022

Objective

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a highly prevalent and burdensome disease. The pathophysiology is not fully elucidated, but environmental pollutants have been suggested to impact the inflammatory component of the disease process. This review aims to summarize the role of environmental pollution in CRS onset and disease severity.

Methods

A systematic review was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were queried in August 2021. Original articles reporting on air pollution exposure in CRS were included. Other forms of sinonasal disease were excluded.

Results

Literature search produced 11,983 articles, of which 10 met inclusion criteria. Outcomes evaluated included incidence/prevalence, disease severity, quality of life, and histopathologic/microbial changes. Air pollutant exposure was associated with higher odds of CRS, particularly with particulate matter (PM) exposure. Increasing air pollution exposure was also associated with worsened disease severity and detectable histopathologic changes. Impact on quality of life was less clear.

Conclusion

Air pollution (particularly PM) is correlated with CRS incidence/prevalence and disease severity, with evidence of histopathologic changes in CRS tissue samples. Further research is warranted to better understand the mechanisms by which air pollution components may cause CRS and type 2 inflammation.

Level of Evidence

3a
Internal seiches as drivers of fish depth use in lakes
Authors: Brooks Jill L. , Midwood Jonathan D. , Smith Adam , Cooke Steven J. , Flood Bryan , Boston Christine M. , Semecsen Patricia , Doka Susan E. , Wells Mathew G.
Published: March 2022

Inland temperate lakes undergo various physical processes, such as thermal stratification, that dictate the spatial availability of suitable temperature and dissolved oxygen conditions. Here, we use intensive limnological monitoring and acoustic telemetry transmitters implanted in wild fish to document the magnitude and frequency of thermocline deflection events (i.e., wind driven internal seiches that lead to upwelling of hypoxic hypolimnetic water) and their influence on freshwater fish depth use in a coastal embayment of Lake Ontario. The embayment experienced around 100 internal seiche events during a 3‐month period and tracking of walleye (Stizostedion vitreus) vertical positions in the water column showed clear trends of avoidance of low dissolved oxygen. Quantile regression showed a significant correlation between walleye vertical position and the depth of the 3, 4, and 5 mg L−1 oxyclines, with the 3 mg L−1 oxycline having the largest effect. Upwellings of the hypoxic hypolimnion forced walleye to use the water column above these fluctuating oxyclines (5th percentile, p < 0.001), with 94.2% of detections occurring at depths above the 3 mg L−1 oxycline. Understanding how fish respond to upwelling events (both temperature and oxygen) is important for fisheries assessment, management, and habitat restoration planning as there is clear avoidance of suboptimal oxygen conditions and sampling in the overcrowded fringes of these low‐oxygen zones could artificially inflate population estimates.
Exact algorithms for multiobjective linear optimization problems with integer variables: A state of the art survey
Authors: Halffmann Pascal , Schäfer Luca E. , Dächert Kerstin , Klamroth Kathrin , Ruzika Stefan
Published: March 2022

We provide a comprehensive overview of the literature of algorithmic approaches for multiobjective mixed‐integer and integer linear optimization problems. More precisely, we categorize and display exact methods for multiobjective linear problems with integer variables for computing the entire set of nondominated images. Our review lists 108 articles and is intended to serve as a reference for all researchers who are familiar with basic concepts of multiobjective optimization and who have an interest in getting a thorough view on the state‐of‐the‐art in multiobjective mixed‐integer programming.