bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elasto‐Capillary Manipulation of Freestanding Inorganic Nanosheets: An Implication for Nano‐Manufacturing of Low‐Dimensional Structures
Authors: Park Minhyuk , Li Dapeng , Wang Tianyu , Zhou Binbin , Li Yang Yang , Zou Deng , Chan Paddy K. L. , Yang Yong
Published: June 2022

Ultrathin inorganic nanosheets (e.g., 2D nanomaterials, thin films, etc.) have attracted tremendous research interest because of their unique properties and promising applications. However, because of their ultrathin thickness (<100 nm) and low flexural rigidity, it is difficult to manufacture low‐dimensional structures using these nanosheets. In this work, the observation of an intriguing elasto‐capillary unfolding phenomenon is first reported which occurs on a variety of freestanding inorganic nanosheets floating on a liquid surface. Through theoretical modeling and experiments, it is demonstrated that one can easily unfold, re‐roll, and transport different kinds of nanosheets by tuning the interfacial properties of the liquid. As a result, one can assemble nanosheets on the liquid surface into small structures (e.g., heterogeneous scrolls, optical resonators) and/or transfer them out of the liquid surface onto other surfaces for the manufacturing of flexible devices. The outcome of this research paves the way for nano‐manufacturing of low‐dimensional structures with ultrathin inorganic nanosheets.
The Role of Antioxidant Structure in Mitigating Oxidation in Ti3C2Tx and Ti2CTx MXenes
Authors: Zhao Xiaofei , Cao Huaixuan , Coleman Bryan J. , Tan Zeyi , Echols Ian J. , Pentzer Emily B. , Lutkenhaus Jodie L. , Radovic Miladin , Green Micah J.
Published: June 2022

The oxidation of 2D MXenes jeopardizes their shelf life, both in colloidal dispersions and in functional devices. Certain compounds have been shown to effectively mitigate oxidation of MXenes (such as sodium L‐ascorbate, ascorbic acid, and polyanions), but the nature of interaction between these antioxidants and MXene remains unknown, which impedes the future selection and design of improved protection. This work systematically examines the interactions between three classes of organic antioxidant candidates, α‐hydroxy acids, polycarboxylic acids, and phenols with Tin+1CnTx MXenes, specifically Ti3C2Tx and Ti2CTx. Interestingly, while some antioxidants provide no protection for the MXenes, and some antioxidants even accelerate their degradation, three antioxidants (e.g., citric acid, tartaric acid, and oxalic acid) protect the MXene nanosheets exceptionally well, showing minimum MXene degradation after the 14‐day storage period. Analysis of the antioxidants’ molecular structure and efficacy suggests that chelation interactions with the transition metal atoms of the nanosheets play a key role in effective protection of MXenes from oxidation.
Unusual switching of ionic conductivity in ionogels enabled by water‐induced phase separation
Authors: Yao Le , Ming Xiaoqing , Lin Chengjiang , Duan Xiaozheng , Zhu He , Zhu Shiping , Zhang Qi
Published: June 2022

Developing smart iontronic materials is highly desired for eradicating the widely occurring potential short‐circuit hazard and subsequent safety problems caused by high ambient humidity. In this work, a humidity‐responsive ionogel (HRIG) based on a poly(benzyl methacrylate) matrix swollen by hydrophobic ionic liquid and hygroscopic lithium salt is reported. The HRIG exhibits an anomalous decrease in ionic conductivity upon hydration by increased humidity, totally differing from traditional ionic conductors, which are usually more conductive due to the plasticizing effect of water molecules. This unique ionogel shows a dramatic decrease in ionic conductivity (as much as 102) when exposed to humidity. The conductive pathway within the HRIG would be shut down spontaneously above a critical relative humidity due to water‐induced phase separation. Moreover, this transition can be perfectly reversed when the ambient humidity drops. A humidity‐responsive smart supercapacitor that can be switched on and off by capturing humidity changes is designed for demonstration. It is believed that such unusual HRIG material will provide new insights into the development and applications of smart iontronics.
APOE ε4 influences medial temporal atrophy and tau deposition in atypical Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Singh Neha Atulkumar , Tosakulwong Nirubol , Graff‐Radford Jonathan , Machulda Mary M. , Pham Nha Trang Thu , Sintini Irene , Weigand Stephen D. , Schwarz Christopher G. , Senjem Matthew L. , Carrasquillo Minerva M. , Ertekin‐Taner Nilufer , Jack Clifford R. , Lowe Val J. , Josephs Keith A. , Whitwell Jennifer L.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 is an important genetic risk factor for typical Alzheimer's disease (AD), influencing brain volume and tau burden. Little is known about its influence in atypical presentations of AD.

Methods

An atypical AD cohort of 140 patients diagnosed with either posterior cortical atrophy or logopenic progressive aphasia underwent magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography. Linear mixed effects models were fit to assess the influence of APOE ε4 on cross‐sectional and longitudinal regional metrics.

Results

At baseline, APOE ε4 carriers had smaller hippocampal and amygdala volumes and greater tau standardized uptake volume ratio in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex compared to non‐carriers while longitudinally, APOE ε4 non‐carriers showed faster rates of atrophy and tau accumulation in the entorhinal cortex, with faster tau accumulation in the hippocampus.

Discussion

APOE ε4 influences patterns of neurodegeneration and tau deposition and was associated with more medial temporal involvement, although there is evidence that non‐carriers may be catching up over time.
The effects of the demand component of motor response interruption and redirection on vocal stereotypy in adults with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Chen Andrew H. , Traub Michele R.
Published: June 2022

Response interruption and redirection (RIRD) often results in a reduction in level of vocal stereotypy in children and adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, research is still needed on the effects of RIRD on adults and on the mechanism by which RIRD produces its effects (i.e., punishment vs. differential reinforcement). The current study used an uninterrupted data collection procedure to evaluate the effects of RIRD, and specifically the contingent demand component, in an adult participant. Results showed that motor RIRD was effective in reducing vocal stereotypy when the demand aspect (i.e., redirection) was included but was ineffective when neutral talking (i.e., interruption) was presented. The impact of RIRD on appropriate vocalizations is also discussed.
Voluntary sustainability assurance in small and medium‐sized entities: The role of country origin in Europe
Authors: Somoza Antonio
Published: June 2022

The assurance of sustainability information by small and medium‐sized entities (SMEs) has not attracted much research interest to date. To rectify this, we draw on a sample of European firms (from the EU, the United Kingdom and Norway) extracted from the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) database and explore the disclosure variable in relation to country‐specific factors. Assurance rates are found to be low among SMEs, and moreover, the level of disclosure is limited. The assurance market is dominated by accounting firms, above all by the Big Four. Legal origin is found to be a highly relevant factor, with Scandinavian countries presenting the highest percentage rates of sustainability report assurance. Among the cultural variables analysed, power distance, masculinity and uncertainty avoidance have a significant negative impact on the decision to assure sustainability information. Overall, the study serves to enhance understanding of SME practices in different countries of origin.
Immobilized enzymes as potent antibiofilm agent
Authors: Lahiri Dibyajit , Nag Moupriya , Dey Ankita , Sarkar Tanmay , Ray Rina Rani , Rebezov Maksim , Shariati Mohammad Ali , Thiruvengadam Muthu , Simal‐Gandara Jesus
Published: June 2022

Biofilm has been a point of concern in hospitals and various industries. They not only cause various chronic infections but are also responsible for the degradation of various medical appliances. Since the last decade, various alternate strategies are being adopted to combat the biofilm formed on various biotic and abiotic surfaces. The use of enzymes as a potent anti‐fouling agent is proved to be of utmost importance as the enzymes can inhibit biofilm formation in an eco‐friendly and cost‐effective way. The physical and chemical immobilization of the enzyme not only leads to the improvement of thermostability and reusability of the enzyme, but also gains better efficiency of biofilm removal. Immobilization of amylase, cellobiohydrolase, pectinase, subtilisin A and β‐N‐acetyl‐glucosaminidase (DspB) are proved to be most effective in inhibition of biofilm formation and removal of matured biofilm than their free forms. Hence, these immobilized enzymes provide greater eradication of biofilm formed on various surfaces and are coming up to be the potent antibiofilm agent.
J‐SUPPORT research policy for oral mucositis associated with cancer treatment
Authors: Yokota Tomoya , Ueno Takao , Soga Yoshihiko , Ishiki Hiroto , Uezono Yasuhito , Mori Takehiko , Zenda Sadamoto , Uchitomi Yosuke
Published: June 2022

Background

Oral mucositis is one of the main areas of research in supportive and palliative care of cancer patients. However, the methodology of prospective clinical trials on oral mucositis has not been established, despite its uniqueness. Here, we propose a novel research policy on oral mucositis, including an implementable set of recommendations for researchers conducting clinical trials.

Methods

The first draft was developed by an expert panel of six specialists from the Japanese Supportive, Palliative, and Psychosocial Care Study Group. A provisional draft was developed after review by the following medical societies: the Japanese Association of Supportive Care in Cancer, the Japanese Association of Oral Supportive Care in Cancer, the Japanese Cancer Association, and the receipt of public comments.

Results

The research policy on oral mucositis mainly consists of the following components: (i) definition of oral mucositis; (ii) characteristics of oral mucositis; (iii) characteristics of oral mucositis research; (iv) target population for oral mucositis research; (v) endpoints and assessment measures in oral mucositis; (vi) eligibility criteria; (vii) research design; (viii) minimally recommended intervention in oral mucositis research as a supplement. The final policy (Ver1.0) was completed on August 16, 2021.

Conclusions

This policy may serve as a significant reference for planning and conducting clinical trials for the management of oral mucositis.
Numerical introduction to principal components analysis
Authors: Brereton Richard G.
Published: June 2022

Scores and loadings matrices are discussed including properties such as orthogonality and orthonormality and illustrated by a simple numerical example.
Highly Stereoselective Synthesis of 2,2‐Disubstituted Vinylphosphonates via Aryl to Vinyl 1,4‐Palladium Migration
Authors: Chen Yan‐Zhen , Bao Geng‐Yu , Zhan Xin‐Chen , Fu Jian‐Guo , Ji Xiao‐Ming , Zhang Shu‐Sheng , Feng Chen‐Guo
Published: June 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Vinylphosphates play an important role in the fields of synthetic chemistry, pharmaceuticals and material science. It is a long‐standing challenge to control the geometry of multi‐substituted vinylphosphates. Herein, an efficient method for the synthesis of 2,2‐disubstituted vinylphosphonates has been reported. The reaction proceeded via aryl to vinyl 1,4‐palladium migration progress, in which two difficulties that the deactivation of palladium catalyst by the coordination of excess secondary phosphine oxide and the competitive cross‐coupling to form arylphosphonates are successfully overcome. The judicious selection of phosphine ligand is the key to success. This protocol features excellent regio‐ and stereoselectivitiy, generally excellent reaction yields and broad substrate socpe.
The role of external beam radiation therapy in the management of thyroid carcinomas: A retrospective study in Iran Cancer Institute
Authors: Esmati Ebrahim , Aleyasin Alireza , Ghalehtaki Reza , Jafari Fatemeh , Farhan Farshid , Aghili Mahdi , Haddad Peiman , Kazemian Ali
Published: June 2022

Background

Thyroid cancers are histologically classified into three types; differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC). Among the several therapeutic strategies for treatment and management of thyroid cancer, surgical resection in combination with radioactive iodine therapy (RAI) is indicated for moderate to high‐risk differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) patients‐ according to current guidelines. However, external radiation therapy (EBRT) can be a viable alternative treatment option for these patients and scarce evidence is available regarding the efficacy and effectiveness of EBRT on thyroid cancer.

Aim

This study aims at evaluating the role of EBRT in the management of thyroid carcinomas.

Methods and Results

In this retrospective cohort study, the records of 59 patients with thyroid cancer were accessed who were treated by EBRT from 2008 to 2016. The indications for EBRT included unresectable primary (definitive) or loco‐regional recurrences (salvage) not suitable for RAI, palliation for local disease or metastatic foci (palliative), and the adjuvant treatment for suspected residual disease following resection. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated for different types of cancer. PFS was measured from the start of EBRT to the last uneventful follow‐up, recurrence, or death. Kaplan–Meier model was used for the survival analysis. Fifty‐nine patients were evaluated. The histopathology of the tumors was differentiated and poorly‐differentiated, medullary and anaplastic thyroid carcinomas in 22 and 6, 15 and 16 patients, respectively. Twenty‐seven patients received external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) as adjuvant therapy and 18 of the cases as palliative therapy while the remaining received salvage or definitive primary EBRT. The stage of patients' cancer was as follows: stage II in 3 and III in 1, IVA in 18 and IVB in 18 and IVC in 19. Stage‐based median overall survival was 26 months for IVA, 44 for IVB, and 29 for IVC. The median PFS was 18, 22 and 21 months for stages IVA, IVB and IVC, respectively.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, EBRT may still play a role in the management of patients with thyroid carcinoma and should be considered in the armamentarium against thyroid cancers.
Rare Alkali Elements as Markers of Local Glass Working in Medieval Tolmo de Minateda (Spain)
Authors: Schibille Nadine , Amorós Ruiz Victoria , De Juan Ares Jorge , Gutiérrez Lloret Sonia
Published: June 2022

Analytical data of Roman and early Islamic glass established several primary glass production groups linked to glassmaking centres in the Levant and in Egypt. In contrast, the activities of secondary glass workshops are largely invisible in the compositional fingerprint of first millennium glass. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) of 261 glass finds from the Visigothic settlement of Tolmo de Minateda (Spain) revealed a site‐specific contamination pattern due to secondary glass processing and recycling, namely the enrichment of the glass batch by a unique combination of rare alkali elements (Li, K, Rb, Cs). With a median of 21 ppm, Li is particularly distinctive. Elevated lithium contents (Li>30 ppm) are also one of the characteristic features of Iberian plant ash glass from the Islamic period. The earliest known examples of this type of glass were found among the ninth‐century remains from Tolmo.
Orthogonal‐ and Path‐Dependent Photo/Acidoswitching in an Eight‐State Dihydroazulene‐Spiropyran Dyad
Authors: Dowds Mathias , Stenspil Stine G. , de Souza João H. , Laursen Bo W. , Cacciarini Martina , Nielsen Mogens Brøndsted
Published: June 2022

Molecules comprised of two or more switches have potential to exist in a variety of states, which may only be accessible by a “correct” sequence of stimuli on account of the influence of the neighboring unit. Here we present a straightforward synthesis of a dyad incorporating two photoswitchable units, dihydroazulene (DHA) and spiropyran (SP). The photoswitching properties of both chromophores and the acido‐triggered switching of the SP were retained in the dyad, allowing selective switching between eight states with distinct absorption and fluorescence properties (corresponding to light‐controlled fluorescence on/off switching). Photoisomerization of DHA and protonation of SP allowed an orthogonal control of the individual sites. Conversely, photoisomerization of SP to its merocyanine (MC) isomer could not be performed without also addressing DHA‐to‐vinylheptafulvene (VHF) switching. Access to the DHA‐MC state thus appeared to be path‐dependent as it could exclusively be reached by deprotonation of the thermally stable DHA‐E‐MCH.
Cell‐penetrating peptides for cancer treatment: Current state and future directions
Authors: Guo Yuxin , Wu Fu‐Gen
Published: June 2022

How to efficiently deliver therapeutic agents into cancer cells is a knotty problem for researchers. Over the past 30 years, the use of cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) to facilitate intracellular cargo delivery has received extensive attention. Encouraged by their robust membrane permeability and satisfactory biocompatibility, various CPPs have been applied to construct anticancer drugs. However, owing to some unsolved problems, such as lack of cell selectively, short circulation time, and poor in vivo stability, no CPP has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration so far. Thus, further efforts are urgently needed to solve these problems. In this commentary, we discuss the current state and future directions of CPPs in the field of cancer therapy.
Cluster of differentiation 147 complex: A putative early predictive biomarker for preeclampsia?
Authors: Chi Wenna , Zhang Yuming , Yang Jinliang , Chen Ligong
Published: June 2022

Preeclampsia (PE) occurs only in humans and some non‐human primates, making its pathogenesis difficult to study. The aetiology of PE is mainly caused by a deficiency in trophoblast differentiation and spiral artery remodelling. The angiogenic factor Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) or the ratio of sFlt‐1 to PlGF and cell‐free RNA have been used as the main biomarkers for predicting PE. Now, Lee and colleagues show that the deficiency of cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147) results in preeclampsia pathophysiology. This contribution makes sheds light on PE development and unveils CD147 as a potential biomarker for clinical trials.
N‐BGP: An efficient BGP routing protocol adaptation for named data networking
Authors: Aldaoud Manar , Al‐Abri Dawood , Awadalla Medhat , Kausar Firdous
Published: June 2022

Named data networking (NDN) is gaining momentum as a future Internet architecture. NDN is a type of information‐centric networking (ICN) that attempts to change the current Internet architecture from host/location‐centric to content‐centric, where data retrieving is done by the names of the contents irrespective of the location of the data. A mechanism to advertise the name‐based prefixes between different domains is necessary to accelerate the NDN deployment. In IP‐based routing, border gateway protocol (BGP) is the de facto inter‐domain routing protocol that plays a vital role in Internet communication by enabling different Internet domains to exchange routing information. In its current form, BGP can advertise and process IP‐based prefixes, but it cannot advertise or process NDN name‐based prefixes. Accordingly, BGP needs to be extended to support NDN technology. This paper proposes an NDN extension for BGP, referred to as N‐BGP, that offers a solution to exchange name‐based routes in the current BGP networks. This proposed extension modifies the traditional BGP speaker into a hybrid one. This hybrid speaker is qualified to understand, advertise, receive, process, and store both IP‐based and name‐based routes simultaneously and efficiently, without disturbing or breaking the current Internet operation; that is, it can coexist along with traditional speakers. We also validate and evaluate our proposed solution in a hybrid environment, and the results show that N‐BGP has the capability to exchange and process both Name and IP‐based routes efficiently.
Feedback between topography and lithosphere–asthenosphere dynamics beneath the Yerer‐Tulu Wellel volcano‐tectonic lineament: Insights from apatite thermochronology and basalt geochemistry
Authors: Bowden Shelby , Gani Nahid D. , Furman Tanya , Gani M. Royhan , VanSoest Matthijs , Abebe Tsegaye , Alemu Tadesse , O'Sullivan Paul , Tadesse Kibre , Abebe Bekele
Published: June 2022

Ethiopian topography is dominated by an ~2‐km high plateau that underwent uplift and incision after or during the Cenozoic Flood Basalt event in the Early Oligocene; however, the timing and drivers of plateau dynamics are poorly constrained. We constrain the onset and causal mechanism of plateau uplift using thermochronologic and basaltic geochemical techniques. We performed low‐temperature apatite fission track and (U–Th)/He thermochronologic dating on three Neoproterozoic basement rocks from the Yerer‐Tullu Wellel volcano‐tectonic lineament, directly west of Addis Ababa. Thermal models based on these results suggest this part of the plateau underwent slight heating in the Oligocene through Late Miocene, followed by rapid and recent cooling until the present day. To determine the nature of these Cenozoic thermal events, we compiled and reinterpreted a suite of partially published basaltic geochemical data. These geochemical data suggest this part of the plateau is underlain by a metasomatized and pyroxenite‐rich lower lithosphere that began to drip into the asthenosphere in the Miocene. Fault‐facilitated release of the lithospheric drip in the Late Cenozoic encouraged basin inversion, driving rapid cooling and incision within the last 5 Ma. Our study suggests that a direct coupling between lithospheric removal and topographic response highlights significant plateau formation around the Yerer‐Tullu Wellel volcano‐tectonic lineament zone within the Pliocene.
Tetrahydroxylated bile acids improve cholestatic liver and bile duct injury in the Mdr2−/− mouse model of sclerosing cholangitis via immunomodulatory effects
Authors: Fuchs Claudia D. , Dixon Emmanuel D. , Hendrikx Tim , Mlitz Veronika , Wahlström Annika , Ståhlman Marcus , Scharnagl Hubert , Stojakovic Tatjana , Binder Christoph J. , Marschall Hanns‐Ulrich , Trauner Michael
Published: June 2022

Bile salt export pump (Bsep) (Abcb11)
−/−
mice are protected from acquired cholestatic injury due to metabolic preconditioning with a hydrophilic bile acid (BA) pool with formation of tetrahydroxylated bile acids (THBAs). We aimed to explore whether loss of Bsep and subsequent elevation of THBA levels may have immunomodulatory effects, thus improving liver injury in the multidrug resistance protein 2 (Mdr2) (Abcb4)

−/−
mouse. Cholestatic liver injury in Mdr2

−/−

Bsep

−/−
double knockout (DKO), Mdr2

−/−
, Bsep

−/−
, and wild‐type mice was studied for comparison. Mdr2

−/−
mice were treated with a THBA (3α,6α,7α,12α‐Tetrahydroxycholanoic acid). RNA/protein expression of inflammatory/fibrotic markers were investigated. Serum BA‐profiling was assessed by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Hepatic immune cell profile was quantified by flow cytometric analysis (FACS). In vitro, the THBA effect on chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA)–induced inflammatory signaling in hepatocyte and cholangiocytes as well as lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ)–induced macrophage activation was analyzed. In contrast to Mdr2

−/−
, DKO mice showed no features of sclerosing cholangitis. Sixty‐seven percent of serum BAs in DKO mice were polyhydroxylated (mostly THBAs), whereas Mdr2

−/−
mice did not have these BAs. Compared with Mdr2
−/−, DKO animals were protected from hepatic inflammation/fibrosis. THBA feeding in Mdr2
−/− mice improved liver injury. FACS analysis in DKO and Mdr2
−/− THBA‐fed mice showed changes of the hepatic immune cell profile towards an anti‐inflammatory pattern. Early growth response 1 (EGR1) protein expression was reduced in DKO and in Mdr2
−/− THBA‐fed mice compared with Mdr2
−/− control mice. In vitro, THBA‐reduced CDCA induced EGR1 protein and mRNA expression of inflammatory markers in hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. LPS/IFN‐γ–induced macrophage activation was ameliorated by THBA. THBAs repress EGR1‐related key pro‐inflammatory pathways. Conclusion: THBA and their downstream targets may represent a potential treatment strategy for cholestatic liver diseases.
A single hepatitis B virus genome with a reporter allows the entire viral life cycle to be monitored in primary human hepatocytes
Authors: Sumiyadorj Ariunaa , Murai Kazuhisa , Shimakami Tetsuro , Kuroki Kazuyuki , Nishikawa Tomoki , Kakuya Masaki , Yamada Atsumu , Wang Ying , Ishida Atsuya , Shirasaki Takayoshi , Kawase Shotaro , Li Ying‐Yi , Okada Hikari , Nio Kouki , Kawaguchi Kazunori , Yamashita Taro , Sakai Yoshio , Duger Davaadorj , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Honda Masao , Kaneko Shuichi
Published: June 2022

For the development of antiviral agents to eliminate hepatitis B virus (HBV), it is essential to establish an HBV cell culture system that can easily monitor HBV infection. Here, we created a novel HBV infection monitoring system using a luminescent 11‐amino acid reporter, the high‐affinity subunit of nano‐luciferase binary technology (HiBiT). The HiBiT‐coding sequence was inserted at the N‐terminus of preS1 in a 1.2‐fold plasmid encoding a genotype C HBV genome. After transfection of HepG2 cells with this HiBiT‐containing plasmid, the supernatant was used to prepare a recombinant cell culture‐derived virus (HiBiT‐HBVcc). Primary human hepatocytes (PXB) were inoculated with HiBiT‐HBVcc. Following inoculation, intracellular and extracellular HiBiT activity and the levels of various HBV markers were determined. Reinfection of naive PXB cells with HiBiT‐HBVcc prepared from HiBiT‐HBVcc‐infected PXB cells was analyzed. When PXB cells were infected with HiBiT‐HBVcc at several titers, extracellular HiBiT activity was detected in a viral titer‐dependent manner and was correlated with intracellular HiBiT activity. Inhibitors of HBV entry or replication suppressed extracellular HiBiT activity. Viral DNA, RNA, and proteins were detectable, including covalently closed circular DNA, by Southern blot analysis. The synthesis of relaxed‐circular DNA from single‐stranded DNA in HiBiT‐HBV decreased to one third of that of wild‐type HBV, and the infectivity of HiBiT‐HBVcc decreased to one tenth of that of wild‐type HBVcc. HiBiT‐HBVcc prepared from PXB cells harboring HiBiT‐HBV was able to infect naive PXB cells. Conclusions: Recombinant HiBiT‐HBV can undergo the entire viral life cycle, thus facilitating high‐throughput screening for HBV infection in vitro using supernatants. This system will be a powerful tool for developing antiviral agents.
The experience of working with anaesthesia associates in the United Kingdom and the impact on medical anaesthetic training
Authors: Sellers Claudie , Penfold Nigel , Gass Cleave , Drennan Vari M.
Published: June 2022

Anaesthesia Associates have been established in the UK for over 10 years, but without statutory regulation. Renewed interest surfaced based on a widening gap between patient need and workforce supply in the UK and established advanced practice non‐doctor roles within healthcare systems elsewhere. However, there are no robust data on their impact on patient or hospital outcomes, or training opportunities for medical anaesthetists, and perceptions of the profession within the anaesthetic community are mixed. This paper describes an investigation into the demographics and scope of practice of Anaesthesia Associates in the UK in 2017, and the experience of working together as an anaesthetic team. Through qualitative interviews, we explored the role and relationships, the impact on medical anaesthetic training and ideas about future development. The overall experience of working with Anaesthesia Associates was positive. Successful integration requires understanding of the educational needs and competencies of all. Future development relies on strong leadership and robust patient outcome and efficiency measures. Interviewees strongly supported statutory regulation, which was agreed by the government in 2019 but not yet implemented. Anaesthesia Associates were seen as a benefit to anaesthetic departments and as such may provide part of the solution to the prevailing workforce issues in UK Anaesthesia, further critically challenged by the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic.
The effects of compulsory isolation measures during the COVID‐19 pandemic: The example of prison workers
Authors: Ayhan Fatma , Balsak Habip , Ayhan Veli
Published: June 2022

Objective

The aim of this research was to identify depression, anxiety, and perceived social support levels among prison workers and to determine the relationship between anxiety and depression and perceived social support.

Methods

The descriptive, cross‐sectional research was conducted between 15 November 2020, and 10 February 2021. The study sample consisted of 603 prison workers contacted using the convenience sampling method, consenting to take part in the research, and working under compulsory Covid‐19 isolation measures. A questionnaire produced in an electronic environment consisting of a personal information form, the Generalised Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ), and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) questions was employed.

Results

The mean GAD, PHQ and MSPSS scores of the prison workers working under compulsory isolation conditions were 18.38 ± 5.78, 14.30 ± 6.99, and 42.76 ± 20.27, respectively. Of the prison workers in this study, 71.5% exhibited severe depression symptoms and 21.4% moderate depression, while 25.5% exhibited severe anxiety symptoms and 23.4% moderate anxiety symptoms. MSPSS and its subdomains exhibited negative correlation with depression, and the MSPSS friends subdomain was negatively correlated with anxiety.

Conclusion

Anxiety and depression scores were at high levels in prison workers exposed to compulsory isolation during the Covid‐19 pandemic.
Genital infections as a trigger for psoriatic lesions
Authors: Fidanzi Cristian , D'Erme Angelo Massimiliano , Bevilacqua Matteo , Panduri Salvatore , Dini Valentina , Janowska Agata
Published: June 2022

When infectious genital lesions are associated with erythematous‐desquamative patches and/or plaques that are resistant to antimicrobial therapy, the possibility of psoriatic lesions arising via Koebner phenomenon should be considered.
Identifying Bone Matrix Impairments in a Mouse Model of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) by Clinically Translatable Techniques
Authors: Ahmed Rafay , Uppuganti Sasidhar , Derasari Shrey , Meyer Joshua , Pennings Jacquelyn S. , Elefteriou Florent , Nyman Jeffry S.
Published: June 2022

Three-to-four percent of children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) present with unilateral tibia bowing, fracture, and recalcitrant healing. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzyme therapy prevented poor bone mineralization and poor mechanical properties in mouse models of NF1 skeletal dysplasia; but transition to clinical trials is hampered by the lack of a technique that (i) identifies NF1 patients at risk of tibia bowing and fracture making them eligible for trial enrollment and (ii) monitors treatment effects on matrix characteristics related to bone strength. Therefore, we assessed the ability of matrix-sensitive techniques to provide characteristics that differentiate between cortical bone from mice characterized by postnatal loss of Nf1 in Osx-creTet-Off;Nf1flox/flox osteoprogenitors (cKO) and from wild-type (WT) mice. Following euthanasia at two time points of bone disease progression, femur and tibia were harvested from both genotypes (n ≥ 8/age/sex/genotype). A reduction in the mid-diaphysis ultimate force during three-point bending at 20 weeks confirmed deleterious changes in bone induced by Nf1 deficiency, regardless of sex. Pooling females and males, low bound water (BW), and low cortical volumetric bone mineral density (Ct.vBMD) were the most accurate outcomes in distinguishing cKO from WT femurs with accuracy improving with age. Ct.vBMD and the average unloading slope (Avg-US) from cyclic reference point indentation tests were the most sensitive in differentiating WT from cKO tibias. Mineral-to-matrix ratio and carbonate substitution from Raman spectroscopy were not good classifiers. However, when combined with Ct.vBMD and BW (femur), they helped predict bending strength. Nf1 deficiency in osteoprogenitors negatively affected bone microstructure and matrix quality with deficits in properties becoming more pronounced with duration of Nf1 deficiency. Clinically measurable without ionizing radiation, BW and Avg-US are sensitive to deleterious changes in bone matrix in a preclinical model of NF1 bone dysplasia and require further clinical investigation as potential indicators of an onset of bone weakness in children with NF1. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Density and Fat Fraction of the Psoas, Paraspinal, and Oblique Muscle Groups Are Associated With Lumbar Vertebral Bone Mineral Density in a Multi-Ethnic Community-Living Population: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Gurusamy Pradyumna , Larsen Britta A. , Allen Richard T. , Ward Samuel R. , Allison Matthew A. , Hughes-Austin Jan M.
Published: June 2022

Low vertebral bone mass is a major risk factor for vertebral compression fractures. Although sarcopenia has been shown to be associated with low bone mineral density (BMD), it is not known whether trunk musculature is directly associated with lumbar BMD, and whether exercise modifies this association. Using data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), we sought to determine the association of muscle density and fat fraction of the psoas, paraspinal, and oblique muscle groups with L3 lumbar volumetric BMD, and whether these associations were modified by exercise. We obtained L3 vBMD measurements, and fat and muscle measurements (in Hounsfield units [HU]) from abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans spanning the L2–L4 intervertebral disc spaces. Muscle density was defined as the mean HU value for a muscle group area. Fat fraction was calculated as the mean HU value for the muscle group fat area/total muscle group area (cm2). Exercise data were self-reported (MET-minute/week). We utilized multivariable linear regression to evaluate these associations, stratified by gender, and adjusting for demographics, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, impaired fasting glucose, and corticosteroid and anti-resorptive medication use. Among 1923 MESA participants, mean ± standard deviation (SD) age was 62 ± 10 years, 49% were female, 40% white, 21% black, 26% Hispanic/Latino, and 13% Chinese. In fully adjusted analysis, for every 1-SD higher psoas fat fraction, there was a 3.19-SD lower L3 vBMD in men and 4.3-SD lower L3 vBMD in women (p < 0.001). For every 1-SD higher psoas density, there was a 0.2-SD higher L3 vBMD (p < 0.001) in men and 0.19-SD higher L3 vBMD (p < 0.001) in women. Findings were similar for paraspinal and oblique muscles. Intentional exercise did not modify these associations. In men and women, trunk muscle density was positively associated with higher lumbar BMD, suggesting a local association. Future studies are warranted to determine the temporality of this association. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Linking skeptical judgment with skeptical action: Consideration of client identification and professional commitment
Authors: Ortegren Marc , Downen Tom , Kim Sarah
Published: June 2022

We examine, in an experimental setting, how skeptical judgment translates into skeptical action, the influence of client identification on skeptical judgment, and of professional commitment on the link between judgment and action. We find that skeptical judgment decreases as client identification increases, and that higher professional commitment can improve the association between skeptical judgment and action. Our findings suggest that efforts to strengthen the commitment of auditors may prove beneficial, that different factors may affect judgment and action differently, and that it may be worthwhile to distinguish between skeptical judgment and skeptical action in academic research.
Accrual earnings management: Do Chief Financial Officer power and career horizon matter?
Authors: Abdullah Yahya , Nabar Sandeep
Published: June 2022

We examine whether Chief Financial Officer (CFO) internal power and career horizon are associated with accrual earnings management. Our proxy for the CFO's power within the firm is the ratio of the CFO's compensation to the CEO's compensation, and the CFO's career horizon is proxied by the number of years to retirement age. We find a negative relationship between the CFO's internal power and discretionary accruals. We do not find any evidence that CFO career horizon impacts accrual management. We further find that the negative association between CFO internal power and discretionary accruals is evident only for income‐decreasing accruals, and only in firms that meet or just beat earnings forecasts. The evidence implies that CFOs exert their influence to ratchet down large positive earnings surprises, thereby creating cookie jar reserves for future years.
HIV testing and linkage to ART following secondary distribution of HIV self‐test kits to male partners of women living with HIV: a pilot randomized control trial in Mpumalanga, South Africa
Authors: Joseph Davey Dvora L. , Wall Kristin M. , Naidoo Nireshni , Naidoo Dhirisha , Xaba Gugu , Serao Claire , Malone Todd , Dovel Kathryn
Published: June 2022

Introduction

South African men are underrepresented in HIV testing and treatment services. Secondary distribution of oral HIV self‐test (HIVST) kits by women living with HIV (WLHIV) to their male partners (i.e. index partner HIVST) may increase men's testing and treatment but has been understudied.

Methods

Between March and July 2021, we evaluated the effectiveness of index partner HIVST versus the standard of care (SOC) (invitations for men's facility‐based testing) on men's testing in a 1:1 randomized control trial. Eligibility criteria included: WLHIV; ≥18 years of age; attending one of four high‐density rural clinics; have a working cell phone; and self‐reported having a primary male partner of unknown serostatus. The primary outcome was the proportion of WLHIV reporting that her partner tested for HIV within 3 months after enrolment.

Results

We enrolled 180 WLHIV and 176 completed an endline survey (mean age = 35 years, 15% pregnant, 47% unmarried or non‐cohabiting). In the HIVST arm, 78% of male partners were reported to have tested for HIV versus 55% in SOC (RR = 1.41; 95% CI = 1.14–1.76). In the HIVST arm, nine men were reactive with HIVST (14% positivity), six were confirmed HIV positive with standard testing (67%) and all of those started antiretroviral therapy (ART), and four HIV‐negative men started pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) (5%). In SOC, six men were diagnosed with HIV (12% positivity), 100% started ART and seven HIV‐negative men started PrEP (16%). One case of verbal intimate partner violence was reported in the HIVST arm.

Conclusions

Secondary distribution of HIVST to partners of WLHIV was acceptable and effective for improving HIV testing among men in rural South Africa in our pilot study. Interventions are needed to link reactive HIVST users to confirmatory testing and ART.
A statistical downscaling prediction model for winter temperature over Xinjiang based on the CFSv2 and sea ice forcing
Authors: Liu Jing , Chen Lijuan , Liu Ying
Published: June 2022

Based on a year‐to‐year increment approach, a statistical downscaling model is developed for winter temperature prediction over Xinjiang of northwest China by using the predicted 200‐hPa westerly wind in winter over the Ural Mountains from the Climate Forecast System version 2 (CFSv2) as well as the observed sea ice over the Barents Sea–Laptev Sea in the preceding September. The statistical downscaling hindcasts on the 1983–2018 winter temperature over Xinjiang show that the statistical downscaling method has significantly improved the prediction capability compared with the original CFSv2. Specifically, the temporal correlation coefficients increase from negative to positive in most of Xinjiang, with the values passing the significance test at 90% confidence level at 81% of the stations. The regional averaged root‐mean‐square error reduces by more than 20%. In addition, the anomaly correlation coefficient increases from 0.08 to 0.26, passing the significance test at 95% confidence level. For two typical cases of the extreme cold winter in 2011 and the extreme warm winter in 2016, the spatial distribution characteristics of temperature anomaly are well reproduced, which are generally consistent with the observations. Overall, the statistical downscaling model based on the year‐to‐year increment strategy is a relatively effective method for predicting the winter temperature in Xinjiang.
Detection, identification, characterization, and high‐performance liquid chromatography quantification of five impurities from a methazolamide product
Authors: Shen Qirong , He Quan , Pan Yuanjiang , Sun Cuirong
Published: June 2022

Methazolamide is an important carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and is mainly used for the treatment of glaucoma. Studies are extremely rare regarding the impurities in methazolamide products. In this work, the high‐performance liquid chromatography/high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry methods were established for the analysis of impurities in methazolamide products. Five impurities (A, B, C, D, and E) were detected using the established high‐performance liquid chromatography/high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry methods. Of these impurities, impurities A, B, and D are known compounds, and impurities C and E are novel compounds that have never been reported before. The identities of impurities A, B, D, and E were recognized by comparing their retention times and mass spectra with those of synthesized standard compounds under the same high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry conditions. Moreover, the structures of impurities C and E were characterized using a variety of analytical techniques including multidimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier transforming infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet‐visible absorption spectroscopy, and high‐resolution quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. All of the five impurities are structural analogs of methazolamide. The formation mechanisms of these impurities were discussed.
Logistical burden of offers and allocation inefficiency in circle‐based liver allocation
Authors: Wood Nicholas L. , VanDerwerken Douglas N. , Segev Dorry L. , Gentry Sommer E.
Published: June 2022

Recent changes to liver allocation replaced donor service areas with circles as the geographic unit of allocation. Circle‐based allocation might increase the number of transplantation centers and candidates required to place a liver, thereby increasing the logistical burden of making and responding to offers on organ procurement organizations and transplantation centers. Circle‐based allocation might also increase distribution time and cold ischemia time (CIT), particularly in densely populated areas of the country, thereby decreasing allocation efficiency. Using Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipient data from 2019 to 2021, we evaluated the number of transplantation centers and candidates required to place livers in the precircles and postcircles eras, nationally and by donor region. Compared with the precircles era, livers were offered to more candidates (5 vs. 9; p < 0.001) and centers (3 vs. 5; p < 0.001) before being accepted; more centers were involved in the match run by offer number 50 (9 vs. 14; p < 0.001); CIT increased by 0.2 h (5.9 h vs. 6.1 h; p < 0.001); and distribution time increased by 2.0 h (30.6 h vs. 32.6 h; p < 0.001). Increased burden varied geographically by donor region; livers recovered in Region 9 were offered to many more candidates (4 vs. 12; p < 0.001) and centers (3 vs. 8; p < 0.001) before being accepted, resulting in the largest increase in CIT (5.4 h vs. 6.0 h; p < 0.001). Circle‐based allocation is associated with increased logistical burdens that are geographically heterogeneous. Continuous distribution systems will have to be carefully designed to avoid exacerbating this problem.
An accurate parameter estimation approach to modeling of solar photovoltaic module using hybrid grey wolf optimization
Authors: Janani C. , Chitti Babu B. , Krishnasamy Vijayakumar
Published: June 2022

This paper proposes a hybrid method for an accurate parameter estimation of the solar photovoltaic (PV) module. The proposed method combines the features of analytical as well as the optimization technique to ensure the speed and accuracy in computation. Two‐diode model consist of seven unknown parameters namely the photocurrent (), reverse saturation current of diode and ( and ), series resistance (), shunt resistance (), diode ideality factor for diode and ( and ). First five parameters are analytically determined with the help of area under the curve, while the remaining two are optimally calculated by using the Grey Wolf Optimization technique. The results obtained by simulation are verified with the experimental data of different PV module and the error is calculated. The superiority of the proposed estimation approach is compared with the recent literature and the results are presented. The proposed model is very useful for the solar PV module designers and simulators to realize its physical characteristics.
Functional analysis reveals ionotropic GABA receptor subunit RDL is a target site of ivermectin and fluralaner in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti
Authors: Wang Qiuhui , Wang Haocheng , Zhang Yingxin , Chen Jing , Upadhyay Archana , Bhowmick Biswajit , Hang Jiayu , Wu Shaoying , Liao Chenghong , Han Qian
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Ionotropic γ‐aminobutyric acid (iGABA) receptors are involved in various physiological activities in insects, including sleep, olfactory memory, movement, and resistance to viruses. Ivermectin and fluralaner can disturb the insect nervous system by binding to iGABA receptors, and are therefore an effective means for controlling insect pests. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the insecticidal effect of both the compounds on Aedes. aegypti remain unexplored.

RESULTS

In this study, we investigated the spatiotemporal expression profile of Ae. aegypti RDL (Ae‐RDL), a subunit of iGABA receptor. RDL dsRNA suppressed the expression of Ae‐RDL mRNA in Ae. aegypti larvae and adult by 60% and 50.67%,  resepectly. However, the physiology of Ae. aegypti larvae was not significantly affected. The mortality of Ae. aegypti larvae and adult females subjected to Ae‐RDL knockdown significantly decreased after exposure to ivermectin and fluralaner. Additionally, Ae‐RDL was cloned into Xenopus laevis oocytes and characterized using the two‐electrode voltage‐clamp method. The inward current was induced by GABA binding to the functional Ae‐RDL homomeric receptors at a median effective concentration (EC50) of 100.4 ± 59.95 μM (n > 3). The significant inhibitory effect of ivermectin and fluralaner on inward current indicated that both insecticides exerted a significant antagonistic effect on Ae‐RDL. However, ivermectin also showed strong agonistic as well as weak activation effects on Ae‐RDL. These contrasting effects of ivermectin on Ae‐RDL depended on ivermectin concentration.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed that Ae‐RDL subunit is a target of ivermectin and fluralaner, providing new insights into the insecticidal mechanism of both compounds in Ae. aegypti. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.