bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatoprotective effects of flavonoids from common buckwheat hulls in type 2 diabetic rats and HepG2 cells
Authors: Wang Hai , Liu Shuyan , Cui Yang , Wang Yue , Guo Yang , Wang Xiujuan , Liu Junmei , Piao Chunhong
Published: July 2021

Flavonoids from common buckwheat hulls (BHFs) show significant antioxidant and antidiabetic potential. However, their hepatoprotective property is yet to be defined. This study aims to examine the hepatoprotective effect of BHFs in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats and chronic high glucose‐damaged HepG2 cells. Results showed that BHF treatment significantly relieves the state of insulin resistance, thereby reducing blood glucose and improving oxidative stress in T2DM rats. It is worth mentioning that BHF treatment improved diabetes‐induced liver damage disorders, manifested as the clearance of liver fat and the decline of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities. In vitro, HepG2 cells pretreated with BHFs maintained higher superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐px), and catalase (CAT) activities than the unprotected group. In parallel, compared with the unprotected group, BHFs significantly reduced the leakage of ALT and AST in pre‐protected group dose‐dependently. These results indicated that BHFs had considerable antioxidant and hepatoprotective potential and could be promising to be used as nutraceuticals and dietary supplements to prevent and/or protect against liver disorders.
Assessment of anxiety in elderly population during the COVID‐19 pandemic and the impact of compulsory home‐stay in the central districts of Ankara, Turkey: A quantitative, qualitative mixed method study
Authors: Sirin Hulya , Ahmadi Ahmad Abed , Ketrez Gamze , Ozbeyaz Cagri , Dikmen Asiye Ugras , Ozkan Secil
Published: July 2021

Objective

This study aimed to determine the level of anxiety in elderly individuals during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Ankara province of Turkey and determine its associated factors.

Methods

A quantitative, qualitative mixed‐method study performed in 1–10 June 2020 during the compulsory home‐stay for elderly people in Turkey. The quantitative study was conducted using a structured online questionnaire with 278 participants aged 65 or older. The Geriatric Anxiety Inventory (GAI) was used to assess the anxiety. An in‐depth interview with 20 participants was used to fill the gap of face‐to‐face interview due to pandemic situation and strengthen the results of quantitative survey. Qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed separately.

Results

Of all participants, 88 (31.7%) had a score above the cut‐off point for GAI. The prevalence of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) was significantly higher in female (37.8%) than in male (23.8%). Female gender, economic loss, uncertainty, and the time participants expend to follow news about COVID‐19 pandemic were risk factors of GAD. On the other hand, higher education level, hobbies, and regular physical activity were protective factors against GAD.

Conclusion

During the pandemic, social isolation and lockdown for elderly people make serious risk factor for their mental well‐being. Measures must be taken to support the psychological well‐being of elderly by promoting physical activity and hobbies at home, and reducing their economic concerns.
Social isolation, social support, loneliness and cardiovascular disease risk factors: A cross‐sectional study among older adults
Authors: Hu Jessie , Fitzgerald Sharyn M. , Owen Alice J. , Ryan Joanne , Joyce Johanna , Chowdhury Enayet , Reid Christopher M. , Britt Carlene , Woods Robyn L. , McNeil John J. , Freak‐Poli Rosanne
Published: July 2021

Background

Social health reflects one’s ability to form interpersonal relationships. Poor social health is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), however an in‐depth exploration of the link through CVD risk factors is lacking.

Aim

To examine the relationship between social health (social isolation, social support, loneliness) and CVD risk factors among healthy older women and men.

Methods

Data were from 11,498 healthy community‐dwelling Australians aged ≥70 years from the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial and the ASPREE Longitudinal Study of Older Persons sub‐study. Ten‐year CVD risk was estimated using the Atherosclerotic CVD Risk Scale (ASCVDRS) and the Framingham Risk Score (FRS).

Results

Physical inactivity and experiencing depressive symptoms were the only CVD risk factors that consistently differed by all three social health constructs. Loneliness was associated with greater ASCVDRS (women: β = 0.01, p < 0.05; men: β = 0.03, p < 0.001), social isolation with greater FRS (women: β = 0.02, p < 0.01; men: β = 0.03, p < 0.01) and the social health composite of being lonely (regardless of social isolation and/or social support status) with greater ASCVDRS (women: β = 0.01, p = 0.02; men: β = 0.03, p < 0.001). Among men, loneliness was also associated with greater FRS (β = 0.03, p < 0.001) and social support with greater ASCVDRS (β = 0.02, p = 0.01). Men were more socially isolated, less socially supported and less lonely than women.

Conclusion

Social isolation, social support and loneliness displayed diverse relationships with CVD risk factors and risk scores, emphasising the importance of distinguishing between these constructs. These findings inform on potential avenues to manage poor social health and CVD risk among older adults.
Numerical and linear regression analysis on MHD two‐phase flow in an asymmetric nonuniform channel
Authors: Ramprasad S. , Mallikarjuna B. , Bhatta S. H. C. V. Subba
Published: July 2021

The flow through asymmetric nonuniform (convergent) channels with the effect of the magnetic field have a pronounced impact in engineering and biological fields such as chemical and food industries, blood flow through capillaries, and arteries, and so forth. With this motivation, the present study focuses on convective hydromagnetic particulate suspension flow in an asymmetric convergent channel under the heat generation effect. The numerical method is applied to solve the nondimensionalized equations governing the transport process of fluid and particle flow and its heat. To check the convergence of the computational results, a grid independence test has been performed. A comparison test has been made to validate the results and an admirable agreement is noticed with published results. Computation results are reported for the influence of emerging parameters on the fluid as well as particle velocity and temperature profiles through graphs and tables. A method of slope linear regression through data points is presented to study the impact of various parameters on skin friction and Nusselt number. The study pioneers the investigation on the significance of the combined influence of cross‐flow Reynolds number and magnetic field on fluid and particle in the convergent channel and also reports its importance on drag coefficient and rate of heat transfer at the walls. It is perceived that a reduction in fluid velocity takes place with an increment in Magnetic parameter, Grashof number, and Reynolds number. An augmentation in fluid temperature is noted with an increment in Prandtl number and heat source parameter.
Application of Multi-Criteria Decision analysis including sustainable indicators for prioritization of public transport system
Authors: Kalifa Muhammad , Özdemir Alp , Özkan Aysun , Banar Müfide
Published: July 2021

Paratransit modes dominate the public transportation industry in the majority of developing countries, especially those in Sub-Saharan Africa. The number of these modes has increased rapidly over the years. Authorities have not yet been able to provide a better alternative for passengers, whose demand is ever-growing. In this research, the main modes of public transport in a Sub-Saharan African city, Kampala, have been studied. Here we used multi-criteria decision-making methods to find out which among the four major public transport modes in Kampala, Uganda, are best from a transportation operator's perspective. The evaluation of alternatives was conducted using Analytic Network Process (ANP) and Elimination Et Choice Translating Reality (ELECTRE III) methods. Both the ANP and the ELECTRE III analysis results demonstrate that alternative “Coaster” is the most appropriate alternative from a public transport operator's point of view. A sensitivity analysis consisting of four different scenarios was considered in the changing of weighting percentages (for benefit, cost, and risk clusters) in the ANP and the ELECTRE III analyses, to show the robustness of the ranking results. According to the sensitivity analysis results, there was no change in the final ranking. The findings of this paper are crucial to policymakers within the transportation sectors of developing countries. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:25–38. © 2021 SETAC

KEY POINTS

Four different transport modes were ranked via two Multi-Criteria Decision-Making methods considering 15 different criteria. Global warming potential and fossil fuel based abiotic depletion potential (ADPff) criteria values were obtained by using the Life Cycle Assessment methodology. The Analytic Network Process and Elimination Et Choice Translating Reality (ELECTRE III) methods indicate that “Coaster” is the best alternative compared to the other three modes of transport. Safety is the most important assessment criterion followed by tiresomeness for drivers (driver exhaustion).
Preparation of carbon dots‐based nanoparticles and their research of bioimaging and targeted antitumor therapy
Authors: Chen Xuan , Sui Xiaoyu , Lu Shuting , Qu Yanmei , Liu Tingting , Wang Ting
Published: July 2021

Carbon dots (CDs) are nanomaterials with excellent photoluminescence property, usually used in the field of bioimaging tumor cells. However, its practical applicability in cancer therapeutics is limited by CDs' insensitive surface properties to complicated tumor microenvironment in vivo. Herein, a new type of innovative biomimetic nanoparticles has been formed with HeLa cell membranes (CM) and multifunctional CDs containing antitumor and bioimaging activities. The CDs are prepared by a facile one‐step microwave‐assisted procedure. Gallic acid is used as carbon resource and antitumor active molecule. Gelatin is treated as the nitrogen resource. Citric acid monohydrate is used as the auxiliary carbon source and the Hela CM is used for tumor targeting. A series of fluorescence analyses has proved its homotypic targeting and ability of diagnosis. Besides, in vitro and in vivo antitumor experiments further indicate their better antitumor efficiency. The findings show the totally new nanoparticles' feasibilities of dealing with the clinical therapy problems as well as applying for the integration of diagnosis and targeting therapy.
Magnetically recyclable sepiolite/iron oxide/cupric oxide nanocomposite as a novel catalyst for the synthesis of S‐aryl dithiocarbamates by CS bond formation
Authors: Bagheri Fatemeh Hassani , Khabazzadeh Hojatollah , Fayazi Maryam
Published: July 2021

A convenient and efficient procedure is described for the synthesis of S‐aryl dithiocarbamates by CS bond formation through the coupling reaction of three components between secondary amines, carbon disulfide, and aryl iodides using magnetically separable and reusable sepiolite/iron oxide/cupric oxide (SEP/Fe3O4/CuO) nanocomposite as a heterogeneous catalyst. The results show that (SEP/Fe3O4/CuO) nanocomposite has good activity, and could be easily separated from the reaction mixture using an external magnet. The high efficiency of the nanocomposite was related to the temperature of 100°С and dimethylformamide (DMF) as a solvent. The structure, morphology, and crystalline phases of the prepared (SEP/Fe3O4/CuO) nanocomposite were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), vibrating‐sample magnetometer (VSM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), and X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD).
The automated processing algorithm to correct the test result of serum neuron‐specific enolase affected by specimen hemolysis
Authors: Liu Xiao‐min , Liu Xiao‐hua , Mao Min‐jie , Liu Yi‐jun , Wang Jun‐ye , Dai Shu‐qin
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Serum neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) is an important tumor marker for small cell lung cancer and neuroblastoma. However, the test of serum NSE compromised by specimen hemolysis is presented as a falsely higher result, which seriously disturbs clinical decision. This study aimed to establish a solution integrated with laboratory information system to clear the bias from hemolysis on serum NSE test.

Methods

The reference range of serum hemolysis index (HI) was first established, and specimen hemolysis rate was compared between HI test and visual observation. NSE concentration in serum pool with normal HI was spiked with serial diluted lysates from red blood cells to deduce individual corrective equation. The agreement between individual corrective equation and original NSE test was assayed by Bland and Altman plots.

Results

The high HI existed in 32.6% of specimens from patients. The NSE median of hemolyzed specimens was significant higher than the baseline (p = 0.038), while the corrected NSE median had no difference compared with the baseline (p = 0.757). The mean difference of corrected NSE and initial NSE was 1.92%, the SD of difference was 5.23%, and furthermore, the difference was independent of tendency of HI (Spearman r = −0.069, p = 0.640). The 95% confidence interval of mean difference (from −8.33% to 12.17%) was less than the acceptable bias range (±20%).

Conclusion

The agreement between individual correction equation and NSE assay was satisfied. Our automated processing algorithm for serum NSE could provide efficient management of posttest data and correct positive bias from specimen hemolysis.
A human rights violation study: The relationship between gender and ambivalent sexism in faculty of health sciences students
Authors: Fiskin Gamze , Sari Esra
Published: July 2021

The objective of this study was to contribute to the literature by identifying gendered attitudes and ambivalent sexism of students who are health professionals of the future. The sampling of this study, which is planned as a descriptive and correlational study, consists of students studying at departments of midwifery and nursing in two universities in Turkey. Students completed questionnaires that included demographic information, Gender Roles Attitude Scale, and Ambivalent Sexism Inventory. Results showed that students have traditional attitudes toward gender roles, and particularly male students have more negative and conservative gendered attitudes. Also, there was a sexist attitude difference between the two groups. There was a weak positive relationship between gender roles and ambivalent sexism in the study. These findings can raise awareness about sexism for students studying in the health sciences and enable them to provide equal healthcare to all.
Engineering student perceptions of social justice in a feedback control systems course
Authors: Leydens Jon A. , Johnson Kathryn E. , Moskal Barbara M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Although engineering practice occurs in social contexts, such contexts often remain obscure in engineering education. Since engineering sciences courses are crucial in shaping engineering students' knowledge and conceptions of problem‐solving in engineering, students in both an augmented and a traditional section of a feedback control systems course were interviewed to explore perceptions of the social justice dimensions of engineering.

Purpose

This study sought to understand student perceptions of social justice in the context of control systems courses.

Design/Method

This study used a qualitative, case study methodology. Inductive analysis was used to analyze focus groups and interviews conducted over 3 years.

Findings

Through inductive analysis, we identified three primary interrelated domains: (1) varied descriptions of social justice emerged, (2) diverse perceptions surfaced on how the social and technical dimensions of engineering problems interrelate, and (3) students' conceptions of engineers yielded insight into their perspectives on social justice.

Conclusions

That students did not vary substantively in perceptions of social justice across course sections suggests that prior knowledge of social justice shaped student perceptions. The findings also indicate that what students value shapes what they are learning and that student perceptions were informed by students' understanding of ethics and of engineering ideologies. These findings imply a need for distributed curricular integration of social justice concepts and for presenting social justice in the context of engineering problem‐solving. Such presentation could reinforce sociotechnical considerations inherent in engineering practice, clearly rendering visible inherent social justice considerations in engineering problems.
Between drift and confinement: What can the study of “lunatics” in Hong Kong contribute to the historiography mental health in East Asia?
Authors: Wu Harry Yi‐Jui
Published: July 2021

In this essay, the author reflects on his past and current research in transnational history psychiatry and the history of lunatics in Hong Kong, attempting to develop an alternative narrative in the unique free port between the East and the West concerning the conventional colonial historiography of psychiatry. He emphasizes that, in Hong Kong, the historiography of psychiatry should broaden its focus and not limited to the role of mental asylums, for modern psychiatry was almost absent in Britain's crown colony until the end of World War II, and custodial care for lunatics was only one temporary measure in a much broader network of patient repatriation. The grand project was designed not for the well‐being of the mentally ill but the smooth operation of the international commercial port. In addition, the post‐war institutionalization of psychiatry, including the expansion of hospitals and the creation of the psychiatric specialty in Hong Kong, did not improve the mental health of Hong Kong residents. The author argues that this is because the rapid development of modern psychiatry in the former British colony overlooked the social determinants of mental suffering. A historical understanding of psychiatry in Hong Kong is helpful to address such ignorance.
Risks for cervical abnormalities in women with non‐16/18 high‐risk human papillomavirus infections in south Shanghai, China
Authors: Wang Xiaoyun , Wu Sufang , Li Yanli
Published: July 2021

The study was aimed to analyze the prevalence characteristics of non‐16/18 high‐risk human papillomaviruses (HR‐HPV) and the related risks for cervical abnormalities in south Shanghai. A total of 2291 HPV women who had been referred for a colposcopy due to HPV infection from @@@@@2016.12 to 2019.6 were enrolled. Combined with liquid‐based thin‐layer cell test (TCT) and pathological results of cervical biopsy, the infection spectrum and pathogenic risk of non‐16/18 HR‐HPV in local population were investigated. The results showed that the single HR‐HPV infection rate was significantly higher than that of multiple infection, and the five most frequently detected types were HPV16, HPV52, HPV18, HPV53, HPV58 in the group. The total proportion of non‐16/18 HR‐HPV infection was 68.22%, more than twice of HPV16/18. In cases with high‐grade cervical intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) or cervical cancer, non‐16/18 HR‐HPV infections account for 50.84% (single infection: 28.57%, multiple infection: 22.27%). The risk of cervical abnormalities caused by single HPV infection was ranked as HPV16 > HPV52 > HPV18 = HPV58 > HPV51 > HPV53 = HPV56 > others. Notably, among non‐16/18 HR‐HPV infected patients with HSIL/cancer lesions, the omission diagnostic rate of TCT was 62.81%. The infection rate of non‐16/18 HR‐HPV in whole study population was much higher than that of 16/18 type, and the infection rate of the former was also slightly higher in patients with HSIL and cancer. Due to the high omission diagnostic rate of TCT, we suggest patients with persistent non‐16/18 HPV infection should undergo colposcopy biopsy to reduce missed detection of HSIL and cancers.
A review on methods to simulate three dimensional rotating electrical machine in magnetic vector potential formulation using edge finite element method under sliding surface principle
Authors: Chauhan Anirudh , Ferrouillat Pauline , Ramdane Brahim , Maréchal Yves , Meunier Gérard
Published: July 2021

In recent years edge finite element method has become quite popular in modeling the three‐dimensional rotating electrical machine due to its ability to represent the physical behavior of field along interface correctly. However, modeling becomes complex when significant mesh distortion occurs along a sliding surface due to movement. A remeshing step is needed, which increases computational cost. In order to avoid remeshing, efficient numerical methods have already been developed to model movement in the three‐dimensional rotating electrical machine under edge finite element method. Nevertheless, very little research has been carried out on comparing these methods. The main objective of this paper is to compare the edge‐based interpolation and mortar edge element method. To improve the accuracy of edge‐based interpolation for tetrahedral mesh, we propose an improved strategy. Numerical results illustrate the accuracy, robustness and performance of the methods. A detailed comparison is presented based on the criteria mentioned above.
Influence of El Niño decaying pace on low latitude tropical cyclogenesis over the western North Pacific
Authors: Lu Changhao , Ge Xuyang , Peng Melinda , Li Tim
Published: July 2021

The modulation of El Niño decaying pace on tropical cyclones (TCs) activities at low latitude (within 10°) over the western North Pacific (WNP) is investigated in this study. During rapidly decaying El Niño events, fewer TCs occur near the equator and the averaged genesis location is more westward. More TCs are found in the southeast of WNP during slowly decaying phase of El Niño events. The distinctive differences of TC genesis frequency and their respective meridional positions are related to the modulation of El Niño to large‐scale environmental flows. Both dynamical and thermodynamical conditions, such as low‐level vorticity, mid‐level relative humidity and vertical motion, are favourable for TC genesis in the southeast of WNP during slowly decaying El Niño events. The differences of sea surface temperature, vertical wind shear, and TC heat potential between the two El Niño events are similar to the spatial distribution of TC genesis at low latitude. Disturbances in southeastern WNP in slowly decaying El Niño events are more likely to develop into TCs due to the stronger zonal convergence and meridional shear of zonal wind. These findings may help to better understand the interaction between low‐latitude TCs and El Niño. The higher frequency of low‐latitude TC genesis and their more eastward TC genesis position in slowly decaying El Niño events may in turn slow down the transition speed of El Niño.
Effect of varus alignment on the bone‐implant interaction of a cementless tibial baseplate during gait
Authors: Glenday Jonathan D. , Wright Timothy M. , Lipman Joseph D. , Sculco Peter K. , Mayman David J. , Vigdorchik Jonathan M. , Quevedo‐Gonzalez Fernando J.
Published: July 2021

Component alignment in total knee arthroplasty is a determining factor for implant longevity. Mechanical alignment, which provides balanced load transfer, is the most common alignment strategy. However, a retrospective review found that varus alignment, which could lead to unbalanced loading, can happen in up to 18% of tibial baseplates. This may be particularly burdensome for cementless tibial baseplates, which require low bone‐implant micromotion and avoidance of bone overload to obtain bone ingrowth. Our aim was to assess the effect of varus alignment on the bone‐implant interaction of cementless baseplates. We virtually implanted 11 patients with knee OA with a modern cementless tibial baseplate in mechanical alignment and in 2° of tibial varus alignment. We performed finite element simulations throughout gait, with loading conditions derived from literature. Throughout the stance phase, varus alignment had greater micromotion and percentage of bone volume at risk of failure than mechanical alignment. At mid‐stance, when the most critical conditions occurred, the average increase in peak micromotion and amount of bone at risk of failure due to varus alignment were 79% and 59%, respectively. Varus alignment also resulted in the decrease of the surface area with micromotion compatible with bone ingrowth. However, for both alignments, this surface area was larger than the average area of ingrowth reported for well‐fixed implants retrieved post‐mortem. Our findings suggest that small varus deviations from mechanical alignment can adversely impact the biomechanics of the bone‐implant interaction for cementless tibial baseplates during gait; however, the clinical implications of such changes remain unclear.
Compressive force regulates cementoblast migration via downregulation of autophagy
Authors: Yang Yuhui , Huang Yiping , Liu Hao , Zheng Yunfei , Jia Lingfei , Li Weiran
Published: July 2021

Background

Migration of cementoblasts to resorption lacunae is the foundation for repairing root resorption during orthodontic tooth movement. Previous studies reported that autophagy was activated by compression in periodontal ligament cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the migration of cementoblasts and determine whether autophagy is involved in the regulation of cementoblast migration under compressive force.

Methods

Flow cytometry was employed to examine the apoptosis of murine cementoblasts (OCCM‐30) at different compression times (0, 6, 12, and 24 hours) and magnitudes (0, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 g/cm2). Cell proliferation was examined using the CCK‐8 method. Wound healing migration assays and transwell migration assays were performed to compare the migration of cementoblasts. Chloroquine (CQ) and rapamycin were used to inhibit and activate autophagy, respectively. The level of autophagy was determined using western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. The expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) was assessed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), western blot analysis, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Cell apoptosis and proliferation did not significantly change in OCCM‐30 cells under mechanical compression at magnitude of 1.5 g/cm2 for 12 hours. However, the migration of cementoblasts was significantly inhibited after the application of compressive force. MMP2, MMP9, and MMP13 mRNA expression was decreased, and MMP9 and MMP13 protein expression and secretion level were also decreased. Further, autophagic activity was inhibited in cementoblasts under compressive force. Treatment with chloroquine reduced the cellular migration, and rapamycin partially relieved the inhibition of cementoblast migration induced by the compressive force. MMP9 and MMP13 mRNA expression, protein expression, and secretion levels showed a similar trend.

Conclusion

Migration of OCCM‐30 cells was inhibited under compressive force partially dependent on the inhibition of MMPs, which was mediated by downregulation of autophagy. The findings provide new insights into the role of autophagy in biological behaviors of cementoblasts under compressive force and a potential therapeutic strategy for reducing external root resorption.
Unexpected behavior of sodium sulfate observed in experimental freezing and corrosion studies
Authors: Abdelmonem Ahmed , Morelová Nikoleta , Finck Nicolas , Schild Dieter , Lützenkirchen Johannes
Published: July 2021

This article reports results from two distinct, originally unrelated studies that show unexpected behavior with respect to sodium sulfate solutions in contact with flat surfaces. On the one hand, we investigated immersion freezing of sulfate containing solutions (target salt was CaSO4 and Na2SO4 was used as one control) in the presence of flat sapphire‐0001 crystals using second‐harmonic generation (SHG) spectroscopy. Further control experiments were carried out with neat water and CaCl2. The SHG signals from CaSO4 and Na2SO4 solutions behave somewhat differently from those recorded for the two other cases, the neat water and CaCl2. The common pattern shows a decrease of the SHG signal with decreasing temperature down to about −15°C, whereupon the signal sharply drops, indicating freezing. With the Na2SO4 solution, although the signal initially follows closely the neat water curve, the trend increases sharply at about −10°C followed by a gradual decrease with further cooling. There is no plausible explanation for the distinct behavior of the Na2SO4 solution, and thermodynamic calculations do not suggest any precipitation of a sodium sulfate solid phase. At the end of the freeze–thaw cycle, the initial SHG for each system is retrieved, suggesting reversibility. On the other hand, in a separate investigation unrelated to the freezing study, it was repeatedly observed that sodium sulfate precipitates from solution on flat steel surfaces at room temperature. As in the freezing experiments, thermodynamic calculations for the bulk solution solubility of sodium sulfate indicate that precipitates should not be forming under the conditions of the studies. The crystals observed on the steel samples have snowflake shapes similar to one literature report. We conclude that Na2SO4 in the presence of flat surfaces shows unexpected behavior that should incite further detailed studies in the future to elucidate the phenomenon.
Life cycle assessment of animal‐based foods and plant‐based protein‐rich alternatives: an environmental perspective
Authors: Detzel Andreas , Krüger Martina , Busch Mirjam , Blanco‐Gutiérrez Irene , Varela Consuelo , Manners Rhys , Bez Jürgen , Zannini Emanuele
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

In the European Union proteins for food are largely animal based, consisting of meat and dairy products. Almost all soy but also a larger part of pulses and cereals consumed in the European Union are used for animal nutrition. While livestock is an important source of proteins, it also creates substantial environmental impacts. The food and feed system is closely linked to the planetary and health boundaries and a transformation to healthy diets will require substantial dietary shifts towards healthy foods, such as nuts, fruits, vegetables and legumes.

RESULTS

Extrudated vegetable meat alternatives consisting of protein combined with amaranth or buckwheat flour and a vegetable milk alternative made from lentil proteins were shown to have the potential to generate significantly less environmental impact than their animal‐based counterparts in most of the environmental indicators examined, taking into account both functional units (mass and protein content). The underlying field‐to‐fork life cycle assessment models include several variants for both plant and animal foods. The optimized plant‐based foods show a clear potential for improvement in the environmental footprints.

CONCLUSIONS

Development of higher processed and therefore higher performing products is crucial for appealing to potential user groups beyond dedicated vegetarians and vegans and ultimately achieving market expansion. The Protein2Food project showed that prototypes made from European‐grown legumes and pseudocereals are a valuable source for high‐quality protein foods, and despite being substantially processed they could help reduce the environmental impact of food consumption. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Phytochemicals and quality level of food plants grown in an aquaponics system
Authors: Braglia Roberto , Costa Paolo , Di Marco Gabriele , D'Agostino Alessia , Redi Enrico L , Scuderi Francesco , Gismondi Angelo , Canini Antonella
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Beyond nutrition, fruits and vegetables can be considered as natural sources of bioactive molecules, for which beneficial effects on human health are widely recognised. To improve food quality, soilless growing systems could represent a good strategy for promoting a sustainable food production chain, although the nutritional and nutraceutical properties of their products should be investigated in depth. The main quality traits and the volatile and non‐volatile secondary metabolites of Solanum lycopersicum L., Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss and Ocimun basilicum L. grown in an aquaponics system and in organic farming were quantified and compared.

RESULTS

On a fresh basis, soil‐grown P. crispum and O. basilicum showed significantly higher total phenolics and antioxidant activity compared to aquaponic crops, whereas, on a dry basis, both plants showed opposite results. Soil‐grown S. lycopersicum was significantly richer in total phenolics, whereas the aquaponic type showed a higher antioxidant activity. Aquaponics induced the accumulation of resveratrol in P. crispum, rosmarinic acid and myricetin in O. basilicum, and lycopene in S. lycopersicum. Among the volatile compounds, in O. basilicum, linalool was the main constituent in both treatments, whereas τ‐cadinol represented the second constituent in aquaponic crops. The volatile profiles of P. crispum did not differ significantly between the two cultivation methods.

CONCLUSION

The overall quality of organic and aquaponics cultures appeared to be comparable. The results showed that aquaponic farming method can be an innovative, rapid and sustainable way of producing quality food. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Analyzing the role of constraints and motivations behind traveling in the prediction of destination choice: Evidence from PLS‐SEM and fsQCA
Authors: Küçükergin Kemal Gürkan , Çalışkan Caner , Dedeoglu Bekir Bora , Birinci Muhammet Cenk
Published: July 2021

This study aims to examine the relationship among travel constraints, travel motivations, and destination choice via a multi‐method approach. For this purpose, two studies and two analysis tools—PLS‐SEM and fsQCA—were employed to conduct examinations in the context of two different target destinations (France and China). Findings revealed that travel constraints and travel motivations generally influenced destination choice. However, it was found that PLS‐SEM and fsQCA results were not compatible for some relationships. In light of this and further findings, it was observed that the matter of destination choice is complex by nature.
Formation of a Hollow Core in Dendrimers in Solvents
Authors: Markelov Denis A. , Semisalova Anna S. , Mazo Mikhail A.
Published: July 2021

Dendrimers are perfect tree‐like radially symmetric macromolecules with regular branching. Due to their architecture, dendrimers possess a set of unique properties, including high penetrating ability and a large number of functionalizable terminal groups. Practical use of dendrimers as delivery agents or nanoreactors in many cases involves a free space in a dendrimer interior. The question about presence of a hollow core (a cavity) inside the dendrimer molecule placed in a solvent attracts interest of researchers since the discovery of dendrimers. This review presents a rigorous discussion on the dendrimer structure in solution. The main objective is to draw attention to the difference in the structure of homopolymer and copolymer dendrimers. Theoretical studies typically consider homopolymer dendrimers (with similar inner and terminal segments), whereas experiments often examine dendrimers with massive terminal groups which chemical structure is different from the structure of the dendrimer inner groups. In the latter case, dendrimer is a copolymer macromolecule, and its conformation can depend on additional factors, such as solvent selectivity, or poor compatibility of terminal and core groups. The influence of these factors can lead to the formation of a region with a lower polymer density inside the dendrimer.
Diagnostic yield of advanced genetic testing in patients with hereditary neuropathies: A retrospective single‐site study
Authors: Felice Kevin J. , Whitaker Charles H. , Khorasanizadeh Sadaf
Published: July 2021

Introduction/Aims

Advanced genetic testing including next‐generation sequencing (AGT/NGS) has facilitated DNA testing in the clinical setting and greatly expanded new gene discovery for the Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth neuropathies and other hereditary neuropathies (CMT/HN). Herein, we report AGT/NGS results, clinical findings, and diagnostic yield in a cohort of CMT/HN patients evaluated at our neuropathy care center.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of all patients with suspected CMT/HN who underwent AGT/NGS at the Hospital for Special Care from January 2017 through January 2020. Patients with variants reported as pathogenic or likely pathogenic were included for further clinical review.

Results

We ordered AGT/NGS on 108 patients with suspected CMT/HN. Of these, pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were identified in 17 patients (diagnostic yield, 15.7%), including 6 (35%) with PMP22 duplications; 3 (18%) with MPZ variants; 2 (12%) with MFN2 variants; and 1 each with NEFL, IGHMBP2, GJB1, BSCL2, DNM2, and TTR variants. Diagnostic yield increased to 31.0% for patients with a positive family history.

Discussion

AGT/NGS panels can provide specific genetic diagnoses for a subset of patients with CMT/HN disorders, which improves disease and genetic counseling and prepares patients for disease‐focused therapies. Despite these advancements, many patients with known or suspected CMT/HN disorders remain without a specific genetic diagnosis. Continued advancements in genetic testing, such as multiomic technology and better understanding of genotype‐phenotype correlation, will further improve detection rates for patients with suspected CMT/HN disorders.
Optical genome mapping identifies a germline retrotransposon insertion in SMARCB1 in two siblings with atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors
Authors: Sabatella Mariangela , Mantere Tuomo , Waanders Esmé , Neveling Kornelia , Mensenkamp Arjen R , van Dijk Freerk , Hehir‐Kwa Jayne Y , Derks Ronnie , Kwint Michael , O'Gorman Luke , Tropa Martins Madalena , Gidding Corrie EM , Lequin Maarten H , Küsters Benno , Wesseling Pieter , Nelen Marcel , Biegel Jacklyn A , Hoischen Alexander , Jongmans Marjolijn C , Kuiper Roland P
Published: July 2021

In a subset of pediatric cancers, a germline cancer predisposition is highly suspected based on clinical and pathological findings, but genetic evidence is lacking, which hampers genetic counseling and predictive testing in the families involved. We describe a family with two siblings born from healthy parents who were both neonatally diagnosed with atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT). This rare and aggressive pediatric tumor is associated with biallelic inactivation of SMARCB1, and in 30% of the cases, a predisposing germline mutation is involved. Whereas the tumors of both siblings showed loss of expression of SMARCB1 and acquired homozygosity of the locus, whole exome and whole genome sequencing failed to identify germline or somatic SMARCB1 pathogenic mutations. We therefore hypothesized that the insertion of a pathogenic repeat‐rich structure might hamper its detection, and we performed optical genome mapping (OGM) as an alternative strategy to identify structural variation in this locus. Using this approach, an insertion of ~2.8 kb within intron 2 of SMARCB1 was detected. Long‐range PCR covering this region remained unsuccessful, but PacBio HiFi genome sequencing identified this insertion to be a SINE‐VNTR‐Alu, subfamily E (SVA‐E) retrotransposon element, which was present in a mosaic state in the mother. This SVA‐E insertion disrupts correct splicing of the gene, resulting in loss of a functional allele. This case demonstrates the power of OGM and long‐read sequencing to identify genomic variations in high‐risk cancer‐predisposing genes that are refractory to detection with standard techniques, thereby completing the clinical and molecular diagnosis of such complex cases and greatly improving counseling and surveillance of the families involved. © 2021 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
A clinician survey of use assessment, documentation, and education about cannabis in persons with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Muirhead Corinne A , Palmrose Wendy , Condren Michelle , Rotolo Shannon M. , Pettit Rebecca S. , Gill Mohsain , Phan Hanna
Published: July 2021

Introduction

To help open the clinician dialogue regarding cannabis use in persons with cystic fibrosis (CF) in the United States, we aimed to describe current practices of use assessment and documentation processes related to cannabis.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, anonymous survey study was distributed via email to CF directors and coordinators and to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) listservs of nurse, pharmacist, dietitian, social worker, and psychology care team members. The survey tool included multiple choice, scaled, and open‐ended items, which assessed participants' awareness of current cannabis laws in their state, prescribing practices for medical marijuana, screening and documentation practices, knowledge of and what indications participants believe cannabis and cannabidiol (CBD) could be beneficial. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

There were 282 survey participants, with majority as providers (28%) and social workers (29%), representing all US regions. Participants varied in terms of frequency of evaluating cannabis use, with 15.4% “always,” 48.4% “sometimes,” and 41% “rarely,” or “never” asking about it. Regarding recreational versus medical cannabis use, 55.4% and 62.5% reported documentation of each type in the medical record, respectively. Participants reported appetite, pain, and nausea as the top three advocated indications for use. About 35% and 72% of participants felt “slightly” or “not at all” prepared to answer patient/family questions about cannabis and CBD, respectively.

Conclusions

The approach to cannabis use assessment, documentation, and education across CF care centers is variable. There is a need for care team and patient/caregiver education materials about cannabis/CBD and CF.
Strength of clinical evidence leading to approval of novel cancer medicines in Europe: A systematic review and data synthesis
Authors: Farina Alberto , Moro Federico , Fasslrinner Frederick , Sedghi Annahita , Bromley Miluska , Siepmann Timo
Published: July 2021

We aimed to evaluate the quality of clinical evidence that substantiated approval of cancer medicines by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in the last decade. We performed a systematic review and data synthesis of EMA documents in agreement with PRISMA guidelines. We included the European Public Assessment Reports, Summaries of Product Characteristics, and published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on anti‐cancer drugs approved by EMA from 2010 to 2019, and excluded drugs not indicated for targeting solid or hematological tumors and non‐innovative treatments. We synthesized frequencies of approvals differentiating between unblinded and blinded RCTs with and without overall survival (OS) as a predefined primary outcome measure. We assessed the frequency of post‐approval RCTs for indications without at least one RCT at the time of approval. Of 199 approvals, 159 (80%) were supported by at least one RCT, 63 (32%) by at least one RCT having OS as the primary or co‐primary endpoint, 74 (37%) by at least one blinded RCT, and 30 (15%) by at least one blinded RCT having OS as the primary or co‐primary endpoint. Whereas 40 approvals (20%) were not supported by any RCT and, of those, 9 (22%) were followed by a post‐approval RCT. While the majority of approvals of cancer medicines approved by EMA was supported by at least one RCT, we noted substantial methodological heterogeneity of the studies.

Clinical trial registration: PROSPERO registration number CRD42020206669.
COVID‐19 and migration: A research note on the effects of COVID‐19 on internal migration rates and patterns in Japan
Authors: Fielding Tony , Ishikawa Yoshitaka
Published: July 2021

Data on interprefectural migration in Japan are used to discover if the pandemic coincides with any significant shifts in the levels of migration and/or the patterns of movement.
Nowcasting the precipitation phase combining weather radar data, surface observations, and NWP model forecasts
Authors: Casellas Enric , Bech Joan , Veciana Roger , Pineda Nicolau , Miró Josep Ramon , Moré Jordi , Rigo Tomeu , Sairouni Abdel
Published: July 2021

Heavy snowfall events can cause substantial transport disruption and exert a negative socioeconomic impact, particularly in low‐altitude and midlatitude regions, where it seldom snows. Such problems may be exacerbated if there are rapid transitions between different precipitation phases within the same event. Previous studies have addressed this issue using precipitation‐phase nowcasting techniques, often focusing on critical infrastructures such as airports. Very short‐range forecasts are usually based on trends of observations and numerical weather prediction models. Nowcasting schemes considering the precipitation phase generally merge extrapolated surface observations, modelled vertical temperature profiles, and extrapolated weather radar precipitation fields. In this study, a precipitation‐phase nowcasting scheme was developed and evaluated, initially using eight different algorithms to classify precipitation into rain, sleet or snow, together with a probabilistic weather radar data extrapolation technique. In addition, three combinations of the previous algorithms were also evaluated. The nowcasting scheme was applied to a midlatitude region in the Northwestern Mediterranean to assess its performance during eight snowfall events. Single and combined algorithms were compared to determine their suitability in conditions close to freezing point, when there is increased uncertainty about the precipitation phase. The results indicate that, although single and combined algorithms perform similarly, the latter can provide valuable information during event monitoring. Precipitation phase transitions were also analysed, finding that on average they can be forecast correctly with a lead time of 120 min. The proposed methodology can be readily applied to other regions where ground‐based observations, weather radar data, and model forecasts are available.
The digital twin in Industry 4.0: A wide‐angle perspective
Authors: Kenett Ron S. , Bortman Jacob
Published: July 2021

The move towards advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0 is fed by increased demand for speeding up innovation, increasing flexibility, improving maintenance, and becoming more customized while saving on the total cost of operations. This is accompanied by increased dependence on virtual product and process development, data‐driven processes, and product knowledge. Other characteristics, affecting modern design, include big data intelligence in product, process, and maintenance. New technologies that empower data analytics include added manufacturing, flexible manufacturing, robotics, sensor technology, smart value/supply chains, and industrial information backbones. This paper is about surrogate models, also called digital twins, that provide an important complementary capacity to physical assets. Digital twins capture past, present, and predicted behavior of physical assets. Digital twin models are updated periodically to represent the current state of physical assets. This distinguishes digital twins from conventional simulations in that sensor data can continuously feed them. The type of curated information on the state of physical asset's history depends on how digital twins are used. For example, if a digital twin is used for fault classification, the history captured is operational data from equipment in healthy and faulty states. We provide here a review of digital twins, with an emphasis on Industry 4.0 applications.