bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Dual‐Functional Lactate Sensor Based on Silver Nanoparticle‐coated Carbon Dots
Authors: Park Joo Hee , Yu Kai , Min Jin‐Young , Chung Young‐Ho , Yoon Ji Young
Published: March 2021

Herein, a silver nanoparticle‐coated carbon dots (Ag‐CDs) was fabricated to detect lactate using colorimetric and fluorometric methods. When the Ag‐CDs were decomposed by H2O2 produced from the lactate oxidase (LOx) catalytic reaction, the color of the Ag‐CDs solution changed from yellowish to transparent, and the fluorescence of the quenched CDs was simultaneously recovered. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) decomposition was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, revealing an increase in AgN bond peaks due to ionization of Ag NPs. The Ag‐CDs sensor could recognize lactate specifically, even in the presence of numerous potentially interfering biomarkers. The fabricated sensor displayed good sensitivity and selectivity, with a low detection limit of 0.6 μM and 10 μM for H2O2 and lactate sensing, respectively. Finally, the Ag‐CDs sensor could be applied to determination of lactate to intracellular imaging in 4T1 cells using confocal microscopy.
Inorganic Enzyme Mimics
Authors: Zhang Yihong , Muhammad Faheem , Wei Hui
Published: March 2021

Enzyme mimics (or artificial enzymes) have emerged as valuable alternatives to natural enzymes since the pioneering work of Ronald Breslow. They have numerous advantages over natural enzymes, such as high stability, low cost, and tailorable activity. Among varieties of materials explored to mimic enzymes, the inorganic ones, including inorganic complexes and nanomaterials, have attracted increasing interest over the last decade and have the potential to address the current challenges in energy, environment, health, etc.
Two Triterpene Synthases from Imperata cylindrica Catalyzing the Formation of a Pair of Diastereoisomers through Boat or Chair Cyclization
Authors: Naraki Shingo , Kakihara Mai , Kato Sayuri , Saga Yusuke , Mannen Kazuto , Takase Shohei , Takano Akihito , Shinpo Sayaka , Hosouchi Tsutomu , Nakane Takahisa , Suzuki Hideyuki , Kushiro Tetsuo
Published: March 2021

Imperata cylindrica is known to produce a pair of triterpenes, isoarborinol and fernenol, that exhibit identical planar structures but possess opposite stereochemistry at six of the nine chiral centers. These differences arise from a boat or a chair cyclization of the B‐ring of the substrate. Herein, we report the characterization of three OSC genes from I. cylindrica. IcOSC1 and IcOSC5 were identified as isoarborinol and fernenol synthases, respectively, while IcOSC3 was characterized as a multifunctional enzyme that produces glutinol and friedelin as its major products. Mutational studies of isoarborinol and fernenol synthases revealed that the residues surrounding the DCTAE motif partially affected the conformation of the B‐ring during cyclization. Additionally, the IcOSC1‐W255H mutant produced the rare triterpene boehmerol. The introduced histidine residue presumably abstracted a proton from the intermediary carbocation at C18 during the 1,2‐rearrangement. Expression analysis indicated that all OSC genes were highly expressed in stems.
Neuropeptide expression in the box jellyfish Tripedalia cystophora—New insights into the complexity of a “simple” nervous system
Authors: Nielsen Sofie K. D. , Koch Thomas L. , Wiisbye Sofus H. , Grimmelikhuijzen Cornelis J. P. , Garm Anders
Published: March 2021

Box jellyfish have an elaborate visual system and perform advanced visually guided behaviors. However, the rhopalial nervous system (RNS), believed to be the main visual processing center, only has 1000 neurons in each of the four eye carrying rhopalia. We have examined the detailed structure of the RNS of the box jellyfish Tripedalia cystophora, using immunolabeling with antibodies raised against four putative neuropeptides (T. cystophora RFamide, VWamide, RAamide, and FRamide). In the RNS, T. cystophora RF‐, VW‐, and RAamide antibodies stain sensory neurons, the pit eyes, the neuropil, and peptide‐specific subpopulations of stalk‐associated neurons and giant neurons. Furthermore, RFamide ir+ neurites are seen in the epidermal stalk nerve, whereas VWamide antibodies stain the gastrodermal stalk nerve. RFamide has the most widespread expression including in the ring and radial nerves, the pedalium nerve plexus, and the tentacular nerve net. RAamide is the putative neurotransmitter in the motor neurons of the subumbrellar nerve net, and VWamide is a potential marker for neuronal differentiation as it is found in subpopulations of undifferentiated cells both in the rhopalia and in the bell. The results from the FRamide antibodies were not included as only few cells were stained, and in an unreproducible way. Our studies show hitherto‐unseen details of the nervous system of T. cystophora and allowed us to identify specific functional groups of neurons. This identification is important for understanding visual processing in the RNS and enables experimental work, directly addressing the role of the different neuropeptides in vision.
A real‐world implementation of a nationwide, long‐term monitoring program to assess the impact of agrochemicals and agricultural practices on biodiversity
Authors: Andrade Camila , Villers Alexandre , Balent Gérard , Bar‐Hen Avner , Chadoeuf Joël , Cylly Daniel , Cluzeau Daniel , Fried Guillaume , Guillocheau Sarah , Pillon Olivier , Porcher Emmanuelle , Tressou Jessica , Yamada Ohri , Lenne Nicolas , Jullien Jérôme , Monestiez Pascal
Published: March 2021

Biodiversity has undergone a major decline throughout recent decades, particularly in farmland. Agricultural practices are recognized to be an important pressure on farmland biodiversity, and pesticides are suspected to be one of the main causes of this decline in biodiversity. As part of the national plan for reduction of pesticides use (Ecophyto), the French ministry of agriculture launched the 500 ENI (nonintended effects) monitoring program in 2012 in order to assess the unintended effects of agricultural practices, including pesticide use, on biodiversity represented by several taxonomic groups of interest for farmers. This long‐term program monitors the biodiversity of nontargeted species (earthworms, plants, coleoptera, and birds), together with a wide range of annual data on agricultural practices (crop rotation, soil tillage, weed control, fertilizers, chemical treatments, etc.). Other parameters (e.g., landscape and climatic characteristics) are also integrated as covariates during the analyses. This monitoring program is expected to improve our understanding of the relative contribution of the different drivers of population and community trends. Here, we present the experience of setting up the 500 ENI network for this ambitious and highly complex monitoring program, as well as the type of data it collects. The issue of data quality control and some first results are discussed. With the aim of being useful to readers who would like to set up similar monitoring schemes, we also address some questions that have arisen following the first five years of the implementation phase of the program.
Detection of the elusive Dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima) using environmental DNA at Malpelo island (Eastern Pacific, Colombia)
Authors: Juhel Jean‐Baptiste , Marques Virginie , Polanco Fernández Andrea , Borrero‐Pérez Giomar H. , Mutis Martinezguerra Maria , Valentini Alice , Dejean Tony , Manel Stéphanie , Loiseau Nicolas , Velez Laure , Hocdé Régis , Letessier Tom B. , Richards Eilísh , Hadjadj Florine , Bessudo Sandra , Ladino Felipe , Albouy Camille , Mouillot David , Pellissier Loïc
Published: March 2021

Monitoring large marine mammals is challenging due to their low abundances in general, an ability to move over large distances and wide geographical range sizes.

The distribution of the pygmy (Kogia breviceps) and dwarf (Kogia sima) sperm whales is informed by relatively rare sightings, which does not permit accurate estimates of their distribution ranges. Hence, their conservation status has long remained Data Deficient (DD) in the Red list of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which prevent appropriate conservation measures.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding uses DNA traces left by organisms in their environments to detect the presence of targeted taxon, and is here proved to be useful to increase our knowledge on the distribution of rare but emblematic megafauna.

Retrieving eDNA from filtered surface water provides the first detection of the Dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima) around the remote Malpelo island (Colombia).

Environmental DNA collected during oceanic missions can generate better knowledge on rare but emblematic animals even in regions that are generally well sampled for other taxa.
Structural Studies of Donor‐Free and Donor‐Solvated Sodium Carboxylates
Authors: Gauld Richard M. , McLellan Ross , Kennedy Alan R. , Carson Freya J. , Barker Jim , Reid Jacqueline , O'Hara Charles T. , Mulvey Robert E.
Published: March 2021

Focusing mainly on sodium 2‐ethylhexanoate, this study reveals that the carboxylate exists as a dimer in MeOD solution as evidenced by Diffusion Ordered NMR SpectroscopY (DOSY). Two crystalline varieties with distinct polymeric structures have been synthesised and crystallographically characterised. A mixed 1,10‐phenanthroline–water solvate [{(C5H10)(C2H5)COONa.(H2O)[1,10‐phen]}2]∞ contains dimeric [Na(OH2)]2 subunits, which propagate through hydrogen bonds between O atoms of the carboxylate and OH water bonds. Adjacent polymeric chains interdigitate with each other through π−π interactions between 1,10‐phen rings. Solvent‐free sodium 2‐ethylhexanoate has five‐coordinate cations comprising one bidentate chelating and three monodentate carboxylate oxygen atoms. Here, the packing arrangement is different with the central hydrophilic (NaO2)∞ core surrounded by a wrapping of disordered alkyl groups. A similar polymeric structure is observed for the crystalline DMSO‐solvated sodium valproate [{(C3H7)(C4H8)COONa.(DMSO)}]∞. This adopts a layered arrangement comprising alternating sodium carboxylate hydrophilic layers and hydrophobic organic bilayers.
Luminescent Ionic Liquid Crystals Based on Naphthalene‐Imidazolium Unit
Authors: del Giudice Nicolas , L'Her Matthieu , Scrafton Emma , Atoini Youssef , Gentile Giuseppe , Heinrich Benoît , Berthiot Romain , Aliprandi Alessandro , Douce Laurent
Published: March 2021

In this article, we describe an efficient synthetic pathway and the characterization of liquid crystal luminescent imidazolium salts based on a naphthalene unit. The luminescent imidazolium‐naphthalene rigid part is decorated with a benzyl group functionalized by two or three dodecyloxy chains. A crystalline structure shows unambiguously the segregation between the rigid ionic and flexible parts conducive to the emergence of mesomorphic properties. A complete thermotropic properties study of these salts has been carried out according to different anions. The alkyl tail number variation and therefore the amphipathic character (balance between hydrophilic/hydrophobic) makes it possible to induce liquid crystal state with different architectures of self‐organization in layers (Smectic A) or columns (Columnar hexagonal). Finally, the photophysical properties were measured in solution and in the solid state at room temperature and showed photoluminescence quantum yields around 20 %.
Simulation of aerodynamic entrainment with interparticle cohesions based on discrete element method
Authors: Jia Shuming , Wang Zhengshi
Published: March 2021

Aerodynamic entrainment acts as the pioneer of saltation movement and is critical for understanding the development of aeolian phenomena. In this study, air‐driven particles whose bottoms have left the bed surface were considered to be entrainment particles; this definition differs from the previous definition considering the initiation of rolling. We simulated the aerodynamic lifting of surface particles on a randomly oriented sedimentary bed using the discrete element method (DEM); we also proved that particles do not leave the bed vertically with speeds equal to the speed required to reach the height of one grain diameter, as is widely accepted. Rather, the particles were found to leave the bed at a much smaller angle and with much larger velocities with respect to the bed surface. The rate of entrainment exhibits an approximately linear dependence on the shear velocity, not a quadratic dependence, because the velocity of the entrained particles increases linearly with shear velocity. Moreover, the interparticle cohesion, which was found to increase the fluid entrainment threshold significantly, had no effect on the entrainment rate or on the take‐off velocity and angular distributions of the entrained particles. This is because the collisions between the entrained and bed particles destroy the interparticle bonds. Herein, we summarize a complete entrainment scheme based on DEM simulations, which provides a new approach for exploring the development and evolution of aeolian transportation processes.
A robust inverse design solver for controlling the potential aggressiveness of cavitating flow on hydrofoil cascades
Authors: Nahon Jeremy , Zangeneh Mehrdad , Nohmi Motohiko , Watanabe Hiroyoshi , Goto Akira
Published: March 2021

This article presents the development of a new inverse design algorithm capable of generating blade geometries for cavitating cascade flows. With this methodology, we demonstrate the controllability of the pressure distribution in and around the cavity and thereby provide a means to regulate the aggressiveness of blade cavitation phenomena. The solver proposed here uses the Tohoku–Ebara equation of state to model phase change, combined with bespoke preconditioning and multigrid methods designed to handle the system's ill conditioning and cope with the hypersonic flow regime of the mixture, respectively. Blade geometries and the cavitating flow field are calculated simultaneously in a robust and efficient manner, with a blade loading that matches the target distribution. In this article, the accuracy of the cavitating flow solver is first demonstrated for the NACA0015 hydrofoil case and associated experimental data. The inverse design procedure is then applied to a typical axial flow pump cascade: a new blade profile is generated with a topology that successfully reduces the gradient of the pressure jump at cavity closure.
Telemedicine for head and neck cancer surveillance in the COVID‐19 era: Promise and pitfalls
Authors: Fassas Scott , Cummings Emily , Sykes Kevin J. , Bur Andrés M. , Shnayder Yelizaveta , Kakarala Kiran
Published: March 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has led to increased telemedicine visits. This study examines current preferences and barriers for telemedicine among patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods

Single institution retrospective analysis of 64 patients scheduling visits with the head and neck surgical oncology clinic at a tertiary academic medical center. Data were collected detailing patient preferences and barriers regarding telemedicine appointments. Patients electing to participate in telemedicine were compared to those preferring in‐person appointments.

Results

Most patients (68%) were not interested in telemedicine. Preference for in‐person examination was the most common reason for rejecting telemedicine, followed by discomfort with or limited access to technology. Patients elected telemedicine visits to avoid infection and for convenience.

Conclusions

When given a choice, patients with head and neck cancer preferred in‐person visits over telemedicine. Although telemedicine may improve health care access, patient preferences, technology‐related barriers, and limitations regarding cancer surveillance must be addressed moving forward.
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Variation within and across primary tumor sites, and implications for antigen‐specific immunotherapy
Authors: Warren Emilie A. K. , Anil Joshua , Castro Patricia D. , Kemnade Jan , Suzuki Masataka , Hegde Meenakshi , Hicks John , Yu Wendong , Sandulache Vlad , Sikora Andrew G.
Published: March 2021

Background

The purpose of this study is to describe human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) overexpression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and re‐evaluate its potential as a target for HER2‐directed immunotherapies.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of patients with HNSCC receiving curative treatment was identified, and HER2 expression evaluated in archival tissue by immunohistochemistry and correlated with clinicopathological characteristics. HER2 expression data were also determined for HNSCC patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas.

Results

Nineteen percent of HNSCC and 39% of oropharyngeal HNSCC (OPSCC) were HER2 positive. HER2 expression positively correlated with nodal metastasis (p = 0.035). Patients with HER2‐positive tumors had decreased overall survival (p = 0.012), including within the human papilloma virus‐positive OPSCC subgroup (p = 0.007).

Conclusions

A substantial fraction of HNSCC overexpresses HER2 protein, suggesting it may be a suitable target for antigen‐directed immunotherapy. HER2 expression and its correlation with survival vary across HNSCC subsites, making it unsuitable as a prognostic marker.
High molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid reduces neuroinflammatory response in injured sciatic nerve via the intracellular domain of CD44
Authors: Jou I‐Ming , Wu Tung‐Tai , Hsu Che‐Chia , Yang Cheng‐Chang , Huang Jhy‐Shrian , Tu Yuan‐Kun , Lee Jung‐Shun , Su Fong‐Chin , Kuo Yao‐Lung
Published: March 2021

Inflammatory response after peripheral nerve injury is required for clearance of tissue debris and effective regeneration. Studies have revealed that hyaluronic acid (HA) may exert different properties depending on their molecular size. High molecular weight HA (>>1,000 kDa; HMW‐HA) displays immunosuppressive properties, whereas low molecular weight HA (<800 kDa; LMW‐HA) induces proinflammatory responses. The role of HMW‐HA interaction with CD44, a major HA receptor, in neuroinflammatory responses has not been fully elucidated. The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate the effects of topical applications of HMW‐HA on the sciatic nerve injury in an adult rat model. At the crush site on the sciatic nerve, the recordings of compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and the levels of several proteins related to inflammatory response were assessed at time intervals of 2, 4, and 6 weeks postsurgery. Here, we show that the recovery effect of HMW‐HA treatment had significantly shortened latency and increased amplitude of CMAP compared with crushed alone, crushed plus γ‐secretase inhibitor with or without HA treatment at 6 weeks after surgery. Our data reveal that HMW‐HA could downregulate the expression of IL1‐β, TLR4, and MMP‐9, whereas these proteins expression were increased when the CD44‐ICD activity was inhibited using γ‐secretase inhibitor. Our findings demonstrated a novel role of CD44‐ICD in HA‐mediated recovery of peripheral nerve injury. Clinical relevance: an alternative for the regeneration of peripheral nerve injury.
d‐Carvone inhibits the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway and induced the apoptotic cell death in the human gastric cancer AGS cells
Authors: Lv Long , Yang Nan , Cao Youhong , Dang Junqiang , Cheng Likun , El‐Sheikh Mohamed A. , Zhang Yun
Published: March 2021

Globally, gastric cancer is one of the leading cause of death. Surgical and chemotherapy constitute an important treatment regimen. Unfortunately, less than 20 persons out of 100 patients are live on almost 5 years. Hence, a nontoxic, effective and significantly enhancing novel therapeutic agent is required. d‐Carvone is a natural terpenoid present in the essential oils and abundant in the seeds of caraway, as well as known folk medication for diarrhea, acidity, and other gastric disorders. Nevertheless, the role of d‐carvone on gastric cancer and its underlying molecular mechanism resides enigmatic. Cells were treated with d‐carvone to find out the IC50 by MTT assay. This study shows that 20 and 25 μM d‐carvone has induced the reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial membrane potential in gastric cancer AGS cells, which were evaluated by 2,7‐dichlorofluoresceindiacetate and Rh123 staining methods, respectively. The effect of d‐carvone against the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway was studied through immunoblotting. Then, we found that it effectively inhibited the proliferation of cell, and the induction of cell apoptosis was scrutinized by dual, 4’,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole, and also propidium iodide staining methods. We also explored the fundamental molecular signaling mechanism of the d‐carvone and our data depicts that d‐carvone induced apoptosis cell death by mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production and downregulation of the and JAK and STAT3 signaling molecules. These overall findings support that the d‐carvone inhibits the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway and induces cell death in the gastric cancer AGS cells.
Driving distances and loss to follow‐up after hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Banerjee Rahul , Loren Alison W.
Published: March 2021

In a recent multicenter analysis, long geographic distances predicted loss to follow‐up (LTF) among allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) survivors. We hypothesized that lower frequencies of patient interactions (including in‐person appointments and telemedicine encounters) would predict LTF rather than long driving distances. However, in our retrospective single‐center analysis of 263 HCT survivors, the only predictors of LTF were residence in the furthest driving‐distance quartile and Medicaid insurance (but not annualized frequencies of patient interactions). Our findings suggest that telemedicine may not necessarily "rescue" long‐distance HCT survivors from LTF. Other solutions, for example patient‐specific partnerships with local providers, may be helpful.
Stress simulation of a foldable active matrix organic light‐emitting diode panel with opening thin film transistor structures based on a finite element unit‐cell model
Authors: Liu Yuanke , Liao Dunming , Wu Di , Jia Yongzhen , Lee Julian , Zhang Zhuo
Published: March 2021

In the bending process of a foldable panel, constrained deformation of patterned structures causes local stress concentrations, which results in the damage of internal components or module stacks. In the present work, a unit‐cell finite element method (FEM) model was used to simulate the bending stress in opening thin film transistor (TFT) structures of a foldable active matrix organic light‐emitting diode (AMOLED) panel. Two different opening methods are compared, and the effect of bending radius is further discussed. The simulation results show that the opening structure can slightly decrease the stress around the hole. The influence of the opening on the stress reduction is gradually increased with the decrease of the bending radius. The simulation results provide the basis for optimizing the TFT structure and improving foldable performance of AMOLED devices.
Acculturation as an ecosystem service? Urban natural space supports evolving relational values and identity in new female migrants
Authors: Ono Aspen J. , Boyd David R. , Chan Kai M. A.
Published: March 2021

New migrants display unique use patterns and relationships with their host country's natural spaces. Understanding migrants' values about and interactions with nature requires identifying the meanings, benefits and capabilities that arise from their socio‐ecological interactions.

This research seeks to understand how new migrants' engagement with their host country's urban nature affects their lives, behaviours and identities post‐migration. Using qualitative semi‐structured interviews and background surveys, this study characterizes the ways in which 27 recent international female migrants to Metro Vancouver use, perceive and derive value from their relationships with their host country's nature.

Participants were all female migrants of low socio‐economic status, whose particular interacting marginalized identities provided a unique, though potentially limited, understanding of migrants' relationships to their host countries nature. However, they also came from diverse geographic and cultural backgrounds, indicating that common experiences may be indicative of broader trends.

Participants expressed a deep value of a generalized conceptualization of ‘Canadian nature’—a relational value that nature is special and to be enjoyed—which informed their use and experiences of Metro Vancouver's natural environments. They felt that their interactions with these spaces provided therapeutic and acculturative ecosystem services by helping them learn about their host country's sociocultural landscape and engage with their own evolving identities relative to their new environment.

These findings highlight the complexity of migrant–nature relationships in Canada. Understanding these relationships is further complicated by the interacting influences of intersectional identities with gender and class being particularly relevant to this study. This research highlights how nature's non‐material contributions to people can impact an individual's understandings, meanings and values about places and themselves.

A freePlain Language Summarycan be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Hepatic vascular malignancies in children are associated with increased rates of surgical resection and improved overall survival compared with adults
Authors: Commander Sarah Jane , Cerullo Marcelo , Leraas Harold J. , Reed Christopher R. , Achey Meredith A. , Wachsmuth Lucas P. , Schooler Gary R. , Tracy Elisabeth T.
Published: March 2021

Background

Hepatic vascular malignancies (HVMs) are rare malignancies, with no standardized treatment regimens. The most common HVMs, angiosarcoma and malignant epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE), are often grouped together in the literature complicating our ability to achieve reliable survival data and treatment strategies.

Objective

To compare the disease characteristics of HVMs, with a subanalysis on pediatric patients.

Methods

The 2016 National Cancer Database was queried for patients with HVMs using international classification of diseases‐oncology‐3 (ICD‐O‐3) codes yielding 699 patients. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square, Kaplan‐Meier, and log‐rank analyses were performed.

Results

We found 478 patients (68%) with angiosarcoma and 221 (32%) with EHE. The median (Q1, Q3) age for angiosarcoma patients was 65 years (56, 75) versus 54 years (37, 65) in EHE patients (P < .001). The rate of resection was lower in patients with angiosarcoma than EHE (13% vs 32%, P < .001). The mean 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year overall survival for angiosarcoma patients was 17%, 8%, and 6%, respectively, versus 80%, 65%, and 62% in EHE patients (P < .0001). A subgroup analysis was performed on pediatric patients demonstrating six with angiosarcoma and 10 with EHE. The mean 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year overall survival for pediatric angiosarcoma patients was 67%, 50%, and 50%, respectively, and 90%, 90%, and 90% for pediatric EHE patients.

Conclusion

In the largest study of HVMs to date, we found angiosarcoma has significantly worse overall survival than EHE. Pediatric patients appear to have improved survival and higher rates of resection. Larger studies of HVMs are needed to clearly differentiate tumor types, standardize care, and improve survivorship.
Moving in together, marriage, and motherhood: A follow up study of relationships in psychiatric patients with personality disorders
Authors: Spangenberg Hanna , Sandholm Sofia , Ramklint Mia , Ramirez Adriana
Published: March 2021

Background

Personality disorders (PDs) are related to poor psychosocial function, including fewer relationships with friends and romantic partners.

Methods

One‐hundred eighty‐six psychiatric patients were included in a study cohort in 2002–2003. In 2017, data regarding living arrangements and marital status between 2003 and 2016 were collected for these participants and from a matched control group. Data on birth of first child during the study period were collected for women. The former patients were divided into two groups based on occurrence of PD or not. Groups were compared with each other and with the controls.

Results

The proportion of participants with PD who lived together with someone did not increase at the same rate as in the other groups. PD was associated with a reduced likelihood of getting married during the study period. Women in the PD group had children to a lower extent than females in the other groups.

Conclusion

Personality disorder was associated with an increased likelihood of living alone and being unmarried. Female participants with PD had a decreased likelihood of having children compared with controls. © 2021 The Authors Personality and Mental Health Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Utilizing circulating free DNA in diagnosing early gastric cancer in a patient with situs inversus totalis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Jian Wang , Huanqiu Chen , Chao Yue
Published: March 2021

To offer a pilot view on the application of cfDNA in diagnosing early gastric cancer in patient with situs inversus totalis (SIT), accompanied by a literature review. Within this study, we assessed the feasibility of diagnosing early gastric cancer in a SIT patient by detecting cfDNA concentration and mutations. Meanwhile, a search through PubMed using key words of “situs inversus totalis and gastric cancer” covering English studies from 2008 to 2019 was carried out to provide an associated literature review. Of all the 24 publications we reviewed, 25 patients were diagnosed with SIT and GC. The majority of them (23/25) were from the eastern Asia area. More than 40% (11/25) of the patients were diagnosed at advanced tumor stages. In the case of an early staged GC in our center, when both radiographic and endoscopic exams failed to establish an accurate diagnose, we found that not only the concentration of cfDNA was above normal, the frequent genetic mutations for GC were also detected within preoperative cfDNA. The concomitance of SIT and GC is still a rare incident, only limited cases have been reported and were often diagnosed in late cancer stages. By measuring the concentration and mutations of cfDNA, early GC may be detected in SIT patients.
Structural and functional study of Legionella pneumophila effector RavA
Authors: Chung Ivy Y. W. , Li Lei , Tyurin Oleg , Gagarinova Alla , Wibawa Raissa , Li Pengfei , Hartland Elizabeth L. , Cygler Miroslaw
Published: March 2021

Legionella pneumophila is an intracellular pathogen that causes Legionnaire's disease in humans. This bacterium can be found in freshwater environments as a free‐living organism, but it is also an intracellular parasite of protozoa. Human infection occurs when inhaled aerosolized pathogen comes into contact with the alveolar mucosa and replicates in alveolar macrophages. Legionella enters the host cell by phagocytosis and redirects the Legionella‐containing phagosomes from the phagocytic maturation pathway. These nascent phagosomes fuse with ER‐derived secretory vesicles and membranes forming the Legionella‐containing vacuole. Legionella subverts many host cellular processes by secreting over 300 effector proteins into the host cell via the Dot/Icm type IV secretion system. The cellular function for many Dot/Icm effectors is still unknown. Here, we present a structural and functional study of L. pneumophila effector RavA (Lpg0008). Structural analysis revealed that the RavA consists of four ~85 residue long α‐helical domains with similar folds, which show only a low level of structural similarity to other protein domains. The ~90 residues long C‐terminal segment is predicted to be natively unfolded. We show that during L. pneumophila infection of human cells, RavA localizes to the Golgi apparatus and to the plasma membrane. The same localization is observed when RavA is expressed in human cells. The localization signal resides within the C‐terminal sequence C409WTSFCGLF417. Yeast‐two‐hybrid screen using RavA as bait identified RAB11A as a potential binding partner. RavA is present in L. pneumophila strains but only distant homologs are found in other Legionella species, where the number of repeats varies.
A top scoring pairs classifier for recent HIV infections
Authors: Chen Athena , Laeyendecker Oliver , Eshleman Susan H. , Monaco Daniel R. , Kammers Kai , Larman Harry Benjamin , Ruczinski Ingo
Published: March 2021

Accurate incidence estimation of HIV infection from cross‐sectional biomarker data is crucial for monitoring the epidemic and determining the impact of HIV prevention interventions. A key feature of cross‐sectional incidence testing methods is the mean window period, defined as the average duration that infected individuals are classified as recently infected. Two assays available for cross‐sectional incidence estimation, the BED capture immunoassay, and the Limiting Antigen (LAg) Avidity assay, measure a general characteristic of antibody response; performance of these assays can be affected and biased by factors such as viral suppression, resulting in sample misclassification and overestimation of HIV incidence. As availability and use of antiretroviral treatment increase worldwide, algorithms that do not include HIV viral load and are not impacted by viral suppression are needed for cross‐sectional HIV incidence estimation. Using a phage display system to quantify antibody binding to over 3300 HIV peptides, we present a classifier based on top scoring peptide pairs that identifies recent infections using HIV antibody responses alone. Based on plasma samples from individuals with known dates of seroconversion, we estimated the mean window period for our classifier to be 217 days (95% confidence interval 183 to 257 days), compared to the estimated mean window period for the LAg‐Avidity protocol of 106 days (76 to 146 days). Moreover, each of the four peptide pairs correctly classified more of the recent samples than the LAg‐Avidity assay alone at the same classification accuracy for non‐recent samples.
System design and engineering trade‐off analytics: State of the published practice
Authors: Parnell Gregory S. , Kenley C. Robert , Whitcomb Clifford A. , Palanikumar Karthikeyan
Published: March 2021

System design and engineering involves making decisions involving multiple stakeholders with diverse and, potentially conflicting, objectives. As more and more data become available with digital engineering, big data, and data science, trade‐off analytics will be an increasing important tool for engineers. We used a structured literature survey with Web of Science key words and bibliographic, categorical, and bibliometric analysis to answer 14 research questions. As our literature survey demonstrates, trade‐off analysis can be found in almost every engineering domain. We provide several insights from the literature survey for educators and practitioners.
Impacts ofacoustic‐phoneticvariability on perceptual development for spoken language: A review
Authors: Quam Carolyn , Creel Sarah C.
Published: March 2021

This article reviews research on when acoustic‐phonetic variability facilitates, inhibits, or does not impact perceptual development for spoken language, to illuminate mechanisms by which variability aids learning of language sound patterns. We first summarize structures and sources of variability. We next present proposed mechanisms to account for how and why variability impacts learning. Finally, we review effects of variability in the domains of speech‐sound category and pattern learning; word‐form recognition and word learning; and accent processing. Variability can be helpful, harmful, or neutral depending on the learner's age and learning objective. Irrelevant variability can facilitate children's learning, particularly for early learning of words and phonotactic rules. For speech‐sound change detection and word‐form recognition, children seem either unaffected or impaired by irrelevant variability. At the same time, inclusion of variability in training can aid generalization. Variability between accents may slow learning—but with the longer‐term benefits of improved comprehension of multiple accents. By highlighting accent as a form of acoustic‐phonetic variability and considering impacts of dialect prestige on children's learning, we hope to contribute to a better understanding of how exposure to multiple accents impacts language development and may have implications for literacy development.

This article is categorized under:

Linguistics > Language Acquisition

Psychology > Language

Psychology > Perception and Psychophysics
Neutrino portal to FIMP dark matter with an early matter era
Authors: Cosme Catarina , Dutra Maíra , Ma Teng , Wu Yongcheng , Yang Litao
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We study the freeze-in production of Feebly Interacting Massive Particle (FIMP) dark matter candidates through a neutrino portal. We consider a hidden sector comprised of a fermion and a complex scalar, with the lightest one regarded as a FIMP candidate. We implement the Type-I Seesaw mechanism for generating the masses of the Standard Model (SM) neutrinos by introducing three heavy neutrinos which are assumed to be degenerated, for simplicity, and are also responsible for mediating the interactions be- tween the hidden and the SM sectors. We assume that an early matter-dominated (EMD) era took place for some period between inflation and Big Bang Nucleosynthesis, making the Universe to expand faster than in the standard radiation-dominated era. In this case, the hidden and SM sectors are easily decoupled and larger couplings between FIMPs and SM particles are needed from the relic density constraints. In this context, we discuss the dynamics of dark matter throughout the modified cosmic history, evaluate the relevant constraints of the model and discuss the consequences of the duration of the EMD era for the dark matter production. Finally, we show that if the heavy neutrinos are not part of the thermal bath, this scenario becomes testable through indirect detection searches.
Predicting recessions with a frontier measure of output gap: an application to Italian economy
Authors: Mastromarco Camilla , Simar Léopold , Zelenyuk Valentin
Published: March 2021

Despite the long and great history, developed institutions, and high level of physical and human capital, the Italian economy has been fairly stagnant during the last three decades. In this paper, we merge two streams of literature: nonparametric methods to estimate frontier efficiency of an economy, which allows us to develop a new measure of output gap, and nonparametric methods to estimate probability of an economic recession. To illustrate the new framework, we use quarterly data for Italy from 1995 to 2019 and find that our model, using either nonparametric or the linear probit model, is able to provide useful insights.
A Multicenter Study to Evaluate Harmonization of Assays for C-Terminal Telopeptides of Type I Collagen (ß-CTX): A Report from the IFCC-IOF Committee for Bone Metabolism (C-BM)
Authors: Cavalier E. , Eastell R. , Jørgensen N. R. , Makris K. , Tournis S. , Vasikaran S. , Kanis J. A. , Cooper C. , Pottel H. , Morris H. A. ,   on behalf of the IFCC-IOF Committee for Bone Metabolism (C-BM)
Published: March 2021

Background

Biochemical bone turnover markers are useful tools to assess bone remodeling. C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ß-CTX) has been recommended as a reference marker for bone resorption in research studies.

Methods

We describe the results of a multicenter study for routine clinical laboratory assays for ß-CTX in serum and plasma. Four centers (Athens GR, Copenhagen DK, Liege BE and Sheffield UK) collected serum and plasma (EDTA) samples from 796 patients presenting to osteoporosis clinics. Specimens were analyzed in duplicate with each of the available routine clinical laboratory methods according to the manufacturers’ instructions. Passing-Bablok regressions, Bland–Altman plots, V-shape evaluation method, and Concordance correlation coefficient for ß-CTX values between serum and plasma specimens and between methods were used to determine the agreement between results. A generalized linear model was employed to identify possible variables that affected the relationship between the methods. Two pools of serum were finally prepared and sent to the four centers to be measured in 5-plicates on 5 consecutive days with the different methods.

Results

We identified significant variations between methods and between centers although comparison results were generally more consistent in plasma compared to serum. We developed univariate linear regression equations to predict Roche Elecsys®, IDS-iSYS, or IDS ELISA ß-CTX results from any other assay and a multivariable model including the site of analysis, the age, and weight of the patient. The coefficients of determination (R2) increased from approximately 0.80 in the univariate model to approximately 0.90 in the multivariable one, with the site of analysis being the major contributing factor. Results observed on the pools also suggest that long-term storage could explain the difference observed with the different methods on serum.

Conclusion

Our results show large within- and between-assay variation for ß-CTX measurement, particularly in serum. Stability of the analyte could be one of the explanations. More studies should be undertaken to overcome this problem. Until harmonization is achieved, we recommend measuring ß-CTX by the same assay on EDTA plasma, especially for research purposes in large pharmacological trials where samples can be stored for long periods before they are assayed.
Reversible thrombocytopenia during hibernation originates from storage and release of platelets in liver sinusoids
Authors: de Vrij Edwin L. , Bouma Hjalmar R. , Goris Maaike , Weerman Ulrike , de Groot Anne P. , Kuipers Jeroen , Giepmans Ben N. G. , Henning Robert H.
Published: March 2021

Immobility is a risk factor for thrombosis due to low blood flow, which may result in activation of the coagulation system, recruitment of platelets and clot formation. Nevertheless, hibernating animals—who endure lengthy periods of immobility—do not show signs of thrombosis throughout or after hibernation. One of the adaptations of hemostasis in hibernators consists of a rapidly reversible reduction of the number of circulating platelets during torpor, i.e., the hibernation phase with reduction of metabolic rate, low blood flow and immobility. It is unknown whether these platelet dynamics in hibernating hamsters originate from storage and release, as suggested for ground squirrel, or from breakdown and de novo synthesis. A reduction in detaching forces due to low blood flow can induce reversible adhesion of platelets to the vessel wall, which is called margination. Here, we hypothesized that storage-and-release by margination to the vessel wall induces reversible thrombocytopenia in torpor. Therefore, we transfused labeled platelets in hibernating Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) and platelets were analyzed using flow cytometry and electron microscopy. The half-life of labeled platelets was extended from 20 to 30 h in hibernating animals compared to non-hibernating control hamsters. More than 90% of labeled platelets were cleared from the circulation during torpor, followed by emergence during arousal which supports storage-and-release to govern thrombocytopenia in torpor. Furthermore, the low number of immature platelets, plasma level of interleukin-1α and normal numbers of megakaryocytes in bone marrow make platelet synthesis or megakaryocyte rupture via interleukin-1α unlikely to account for the recovery of platelet counts upon arousal. Finally, using large-scale electron microscopy we revealed platelets to accumulate in liver sinusoids, but not in spleen or lung, during torpor. These results thus demonstrate that platelet dynamics in hibernation are caused by storage and release of platelets, most likely by margination to the vessel wall in liver sinusoids. Translating the molecular mechanisms that govern platelet retention in the liver, may be of major relevance for hemostatic management in (accidental) hypothermia and for the development of novel anti-thrombotic strategies.
Beyond protein intake: does dietary fat intake in the year preceding pregnancy and during pregnancy have an impact on gestational diabetes mellitus?
Authors: Qiao Tian , Chen Yue , Duan Ruonan , Chen Mengxue , Xue Hongmei , Tian Guo , Liang Yi , Zhang Jieyi , He Fang , Yang Dagang , Gong Yunhui , Zhou Rong , Cheng Guo
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Studies regarding the association between dietary fat intake and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are limited and provide conflicting findings. Thus, the study aims to examine the association of dietary fat intake in the year preceding pregnancy and during pregnancy with the risk of GDM, taking the relevance of dietary protein intake on GDM into consideration.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted in 6299 singleton pregnancies, using the data from the Nutrition in Pregnancy and Growth in Southwest China (NPGSC). A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary fat intake in the year preceding pregnancy and during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the prospective associations of dietary fat intake and the type and source of dietary fats in different time windows with GDM risk.

Results

Higher intake of total fat [OR (95% CI): 2.21 (1.19–4.20), P = 0.02] during 12–22 weeks of gestation was associated with higher GDM risk. However, adjustment for animal protein intake greatly attenuated this association [OR (95% CI): 1.81 (0.93, 3.64), P = 0.11]. Total fat intake neither in the year preceding pregnancy nor during the early pregnancy was associated with GDM risk. Moreover, insignificant associations were observed between intakes of vegetable fat, animal fat, cholesterol, saturated fatty acid, monounsaturated fatty acid and polyunsaturated fatty acid one year before pregnancy and during the first and second trimesters and GDM risk.

Conclusion

Our study indicated that dietary fat intake one year before pregnancy and across the two pregnancy trimesters preceding the diagnosis of GDM has no relevance on GDM risk among Chinese women, particularly those with normal BMI, low, or normal calorie intake.