bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emulsion polymerization of vinylidene fluoride: Effects of mixing and reaction conditions on the initial rate of polymerization
Authors: Ecoscia Ana Carolina M. , Sheibat‐Othman Nida , McKenna Timothy F. L.
Published: April 2021

In order to contribute to a better understanding of the emulsion polymerization of vinylidene fluoride (VDF), an experimental study under conditions of temperature and pressure similar to those found in industrial processes was carried out. It is shown that the initial rate of polymerization is strongly influenced by the agitation of the reactor, with the rate of reaction increasing as the rate of agitation increases. In addition, using a more efficient impeller also increases the polymerization. It is proposed that this is due to mass transfer limitations. This idea is confirmed by a similar dependence of the average molecular weight on agitation. Experimental data also shows that particles are formed by homogeneous coagulative nucleation. It is proposed that particle nucleation occurs throughout the polymerization, and that a competition between controlled coagulation and particle generation governs the rate of reaction.
Detection of periodontal bone loss in mandibular area from dental panoramic radiograph using image processing techniques
Authors: Vigil M. S. Antony , Bharathi V. Subbiah
Published: April 2021

Medical imaging plays the vital role in diagnosis of abnormalities. Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease damaging the soft tissue that untreated can lead to loss of bone, which supports the teeth. The severity of periodontitis is correlated to pocket depth in alveolar area. Even if analyses of the pocket depth can be manually performed, an automatic assistive tool can drastically help radiologists conduct more accurate analyses. In the proposed research, image processing algorithms were developed to compute pocket depth and diagnose the periodontitis. Radiologists manually segmented 350 panoramic radiographic images, dividing them into normal and periodontitis. The same dataset is used in our work to validate the Classification algorithm. The images are preprocessed with median filter and histogram equalization to improve the contrast and then segmented using two‐dimensional‐Otsu thresholding method into teeth and bony area in the mandibular region. Normal pocket depth of 3 mm as reported by American Academy of Periodontology is equivalently converted to pixel height in the radiographic images. Based on this pocket depth rule based classification method classifies the images into normal and periodontitis. The proposed work achieved 91.34% accuracy, 92.8% sensitivity, and 95.47% F‐score in classifying the dental panoramic radiography.
Detecting cells rotations for increasing the robustness of cell sizing by impedance measurements, with or without machine learning
Authors: Taraconat Pierre , Gineys Jean‐Philippe , Isèbe Damien , Nicoud Franck , Mendez Simon
Published: April 2021

The Coulter principle is a widespread technique for sizing red blood cells (RBCs) in hematological analyzers. It is based on the monitoring of the electrical perturbations generated by cells passing through a micro‐orifice, in which a concentrated electrical field is imposed by two electrodes. However, artifacts associated with near‐wall passages in the sensing region are known to skew the statistics for RBCs sizing. This study presents numerical results that emphasize the link between the cell flow‐induced rotation in the detection area and the error in its measured volume. Based on these observations, two methods are developed to identify and reject pulses impaired by cell rotation. In the first strategy, the filtering is allowed by a metric computed directly from the waveform. In the second, a numerical database is employed to train a neural network capable of detecting if the cell has experienced a rotation, given its electrical pulse. Detecting and rejecting rotation‐associated pulses are shown to provide results comparable to hydrodynamical focusing, which enforces cells to flow in the center of the orifice, the gold standard implementation of the Coulter principle.
Constitutive expression of spliced XBP1 causes perinatal lethality in mice
Authors: Xu Qian , Zhang Hua , Wang Suzhen , Qin Chunlin , Lu Yongbo
Published: April 2021

Upon endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, inositol‐requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) is activated and catalyzes nonconventional splicing of an unspliced X‐box binding protein 1 (XBP1U) mRNA to yield a spliced XBP1 (XBP1S) mRNA that encodes a potent XBP1S transcription factor. XBP1S is a key mediator of the IRE1 branch that is essential for alleviating ER stress. We generated a novel mouse strain (referred to as “Xbp1CS/+” mice) that constitutively expressed XBP1S after Cre recombinase‐mediated recombination. Further breeding of these mice with Twist2 Cre recombinase (Twist2‐Cre) knock‐in mice generated Twist2‐Cre;Xbp1CS/+ mice. Most Twist2‐Cre;Xbp1CS/+ mice died shortly after birth. Reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) showed that constitutive expression of XBP1S occurred in various mouse tissues examined, but not in the brain. Immunohistochemistry confirmed that although the immunostaining signals for total XBP1 (XBP1U and XBP1S) were found in the calvarial bones in both Twist2‐Cre;Xbp1CS/+ and control mice, the signals for XBP1S were only detected in the Twist2‐Cre;Xbp1CS/+ mice, but not in the control mice. These results suggest that a precise control of XBP1S production is essential for normal mouse development.
Larval anurans follow predictions of stoichiometric theory: implications for nutrient storage in wetlands
Authors: Knapp Daniel D. , Smith Lora L. , Atkinson Carla L.
Published: April 2021

Ecological stoichiometry provides a framework to predict how animals regulate nutritional balances within their tissue and, as a result, how animal biomass affects ecosystem processes through nutrient cycling. However, most interspecific and developmental stoichiometric studies in animals focus on invertebrates, and the few vertebrate studies are largely fish‐centric. Larval anurans are ideal vertebrates to test predictions of developmental and interspecific stoichiometry as they undergo a complex development, exhibit broad arrays of life‐history traits, and can constitute high animal biomass in wetlands, implying major roles in wetland nutrient storage and cycling. We examined (1) patterns of body stoichiometry across larval developmental stages within multiple anuran species, (2) whether key predictors of stoichiometric change, specifically body size, developmental period, and breeding season, influence interspecific stoichiometric variation, and (3) natural magnitudes and fluctuations of larval anuran nutrient storage in geographically isolated wetlands (GIWs). We measured carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) tissue content in larval anurans across five developmental stages within 11 species collected from four GIWs to examine patterns of developmental and interspecific stoichiometry. Within species, we found broad developmental stoichiometric patterns in which later developmental stages were lower in %N, but higher in %P than earlier stages. Patterns in %C were inconsistent but were generally lower in later stages, while tissue C:N ratios increased, and C:P and N:P decreased in later developmental stages. Interspecific stoichiometric variation was partially explained by body size and developmental period which positively affected %C and C:N ratios. We observed spatial and temporal fluctuations in species‐specific biomass which dictated nutrient storage patterns within larval anuran assemblages, though stoichiometric identity played a major role. Our estimated magnitudes of larval anuran areal nutrient storage also greatly exceeded that of other wetland fauna with the maximum estimated areal P storage reaching over 200 times that of a similar‐density co‐occurring invertebrate group. These results highlight stoichiometric patterns of development and interspecific variation in a diverse group of amphibians while providing critical baseline information for elucidating the role of anurans in wetland nutrient dynamics.
Predicting patterns of terrestrial lichen biomass recovery following boreal wildfires
Authors: Greuel Ruth J. , Degré‐Timmons Geneviève É. , Baltzer Jennifer L. , Johnstone Jill F. , McIntire Eliot J. B. , Day Nicola J. , Hart Sarah J. , McLoughlin Philip D. , Schmiegelow Fiona K. A. , Turetsky Merritt R. , Truchon‐Savard Alexandre , van Telgen Mario D. , Cumming Steven G.
Published: April 2021

Increased fire activity due to climate change may impact the successional dynamics of boreal forests, with important consequences for caribou habitat. Early successional forests have been shown to support lower quantities of caribou forage lichens, but geographic variation in, and controls on, the rates of lichen recovery has been largely unexplored. In this study, we sampled across a broad region in northwestern Canada to compare lichen biomass accumulation in ecoprovinces, including the Saskatchewan Boreal Shield, the Northwest Territories Taiga Shield, and Northwest Territories Taiga Plains, divided into North and South. We focused on the most valuableCladoniaspecies for boreal and barren‐ground caribou:Cladonia mitisandC. arbuscula,C. rangiferinaandC. stygia, andC. stellarisandC. uncialis. We developed new allometric equations to estimate lichen biomass from field measurements of lichen cover and height; allometries were consistent among ecoprovinces, suggesting generalizability. We then used estimates of lichen biomass to quantify patterns of lichen recovery in different stand types, ecoprovinces, and with time following stand‐replacing fire. We used a hurdle model to account both for the heterogeneous nature of lichen presence (zero inflation) and for the range of abundance in stands where lichen was present. The first component of the hurdle model, a generalized linear model, identified stand age, stand type, and ecoprovince as significant predictors of lichen presence. With a logistic growth model, a measure of lichen recovery (time to 50% asymptotic value) varied from 28 to 73 yr, dependent on stand type and ecoprovince. The combined predictions of the hurdle model suggest the most rapid recovery of lichen biomass across our study region occurred in jack pine in the Boreal Shield (30 yr), while stands located in the Taiga Plains (North and South) required a longer recovery period (approximately 75 yr). These results provide a basis for estimating future caribou habitat that encompasses some of the large variation in fire effects on lichen abundance and vegetation types across the range of boreal and barren‐ground caribou in North America.
Vegetation structure modulates ecosystem and community responses to spatial subsidies
Authors: McCary Matthew A. , Jackson Randall D. , Gratton Claudio
Published: April 2021

Ecosystem responses to external inputs of nutrients and organisms are highly variable. Theory predicts that ecosystem traits will determine the responses to spatial subsidies, but evidence for how vegetation structure can modulate those effects is lacking. We investigated how vegetation structure (i.e., leaf area index [LAI] and vegetation height) influenced the ecosystem and community responses to insect spatial subsidies in a subarctic grassland. Our experiment consisted of a 2 × 2 manipulation where in one treatment we either blocked flying insects over a 2‐yr period in 1‐m2plots near the shore of Lake Mývatn, Iceland, where deposition of aquatic adult midges (Diptera: Chironomidae) to land is high, or left control plots accessible to flying midges. In the second treatment, grassland vegetation was cut (tall vs. short) at the start of each season and then allowed to regrow. We then measured litter decomposition and arthropod composition and density within each plot (n = 6 replicates × 4 treatments). Midge‐exclusion cages reduced midge deposition by 81% relative to the open plots. Vegetation cutting initially reduced LAI and vegetation height by 3× and 1.5×, respectively, but these were not different by the end of the second‐growing season. We found that vegetation structure modulated the effects of midge subsides on litter decomposition, with taller canopies intercepting more insect subsidies than shorter ones, leading to 18% faster litter decomposition. In contrast, the short‐vegetation plots intercepted fewer subsidies and had higher temperatures and sunlight, resulting in no effects of midges on decomposition. However, by the end of the experiment when all vegetation structure characteristics had converged across all plots, we found no differences in decomposition between treatments. The effects of midge subsidies on arthropod composition depended on the vegetation structure, suggesting that arthropods might also be responding to the structural effects on spatial subsidies. Our findings indicate that vegetation structure can modify the abiotic environment and the quantity of subsidies entering a recipient ecosystem as aerial insects, resulting in ecosystem‐ and community‐level responses. Thus, changing vegetation structure via habitat disturbances will likely have important implications for ecosystem functions that rely on spatial subsidies.
Does the type of silvicultural practice influence spruce budworm defoliation of seedlings?
Authors: Lavoie Janie , Montoro Girona Miguel , Grosbois Guillaume , Morin Hubert
Published: April 2021

Spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana(Clem)) is the main defoliator in the boreal forest of North America, and its outbreaks have major ecological and economic consequences and represent a challenge for forest management. Numerous studies have addressed the effects of this defoliator on mature trees, whereas the effects of spruce budworm on regeneration remain elusive. Furthermore, intensive exploitation practices during the last decades have left a large area of the Canadian boreal forest in an early development stage. In this context, it becomes vital to understand those factors affecting the severity of spruce budworm‐related defoliation on regeneration. Here, we determine the defoliation severity of black spruce and balsam fir seedlings in both mature pure black spruce and black spruce–balsam fir stands subjected to two different silvicultural treatments (clear‐cutting and partial cutting). Defoliation intensity varied between stand types, silvicultural treatments, species, and height classes. Seedlings in black spruce–balsam fir stands experienced twice the defoliation of those in pure black spruce stands (black spruce seedlings 10% vs. 23%; balsam fir seedlings 29% vs. 47%, respectively). Harvesting methods also influenced seedling defoliation. Under clear‐cutting, black spruce seedlings (24%) were three times as defoliated as black spruce seedlings in partial cutting stands (8%), whereas balsam fir seedlings in clear‐cutting plots experienced twice the defoliation (42%) of balsam fir seedlings in partial cutting plots (20%). The level of defoliation also increased with seedling height. This study will help silvicultural strategies adapt to the effects of natural disturbance regimes. As the intensity and severity of defoliator outbreaks are expected to increase under climate change, these results will help guide forest management strategies to select harvesting methods that will limit the effects of defoliation on conifer regeneration.
Gold(I) Complexes with a Quinazoline Carboxamide Alkynyl Ligand: Synthesis, Cytotoxicity, and Mechanistic Studies
Authors: Tabrizi Leila , Yang Won Seok , Chintha Chetan , Morrison Liam , Samali Afshin , Ramos Joe W. , Erxleben Andrea
Published: April 2021

A series of gold(I) complexes with the general formula [Au(L2)(L′)] (L2=4‐phenyl‐N‐(prop‐2‐yn‐1‐yl)quinazoline‐2‐carboxamide,L′=PPh3(triphenylphosphine),1; TPA (1,3,5‐triaza‐7‐phosphaadamantane),2, and Me2‐imy (1,3‐dimethylimidazol‐2‐ylidene),3) were synthesized and fully characterized by spectroscopic methods. The alkynyl ligandL2belongs to the quinazoline carboxamide class of ligands that are known to bind to the translocator protein (TSPO) at the outer mitochondrial membrane.1and2exert cytotoxic effects in bladder cancer cells with IC50values in the low micromolar range. Further mechanistic analysis indicated that the two complexes both act by inducing reactive oxygen species and caspase‐mediated apoptosis. The complexes inhibit thioredoxin reductase, an established target of anticancer gold(I) complexes. Docking studies confirmed that after ligand exchange the free ligandL2can interact with the TSPO binding site.
The Ugly Duckling Metamorphosis: The Ammonia/Formaldehyde Couple Made Possible in Ugi Reactions.
Authors: Rosalba Thaissa Pasquali F. , Kas Samia Sayegh A. , Sampaio Ana Beatriz S. , Salvador Carlos Eduardo M. , Andrade Carlos Kleber Z.
Published: April 2021

Ugi reactions are still a challenge when the concomitant use of ammonia and formaldehyde is required. Herein, we propose a strategy to overcome this challenge using hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) as a singular key for the employment of these two simple starting materials in the Ugi reaction. Acylaminoacetamide derivatives were prepared in good to excellent yields by this new methodology. The scope and optimization of the reaction conditions were investigated. This novel methodology was successfully applied in the synthesis of two different diketopiperazines (DKPs) using the Ugi/Deprotection+Activation/Cyclization (UDAC) method. A continuous flow approach was also used in this methodology.
Transition Metal‐Free sp3−sp3 Carbon‐Carbon Coupling between Benzylboronic Esters and Alkyl Bromides
Authors: Russell Richard W. , Barker Timothy J.
Published: April 2021

A transition metal‐free coupling reaction of benzylboronic esters and alkyl halides has been developed. Both alkyl bromides and alkyl iodides were found to be competent substrates with the nucleophilic boronate intermediate generated from the combination of benzylboronic ester and an alkyllithium. Good chemoselectivity was observed for the reaction with the alkyl bromide in substrates with a second electrophile present. Both secondary and tertiary benzylboronic esters were effective nucleophiles in the reaction with primary alkyl halides. Mechanistic observations are consistent with a radical mechanism.
Unmet health care need and income‐Related horizontal equity in use of health care during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Davillas Apostolos , Jones Andrew M.
Published: April 2021

Using monthly data from the Understanding Society (UKHLS) COVID‐19 Survey we analyse the evolution of unmet need and assess how the UK health care system performed against the principle of horizontal equity in health care use during the first wave of COVID‐19 wave. Unmet need was most evident for hospital care, and less pronounced for primary health services (non‐emergency medical helplines, GP consultations, community pharmacist advice, over the counter medications and prescriptions). Despite this, there is no evidence that horizontal equity, with respect to income, was violated for NHS hospital outpatient and inpatient care during the first wave of the pandemic. There is evidence of pro‐rich inequities in use of GP consultations, prescriptions and medical helplines at the peak of the first wave, but these were eliminated as the pandemic progressed. There are persistent pro‐rich inequities for services that may relate to individuals' ability to pay (over the counter medications and advice from community pharmacists).
The safety concern of plant‐based supplements: A public health topic
Authors: Allkanjari Olta
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, the use of food supplements has increased globally. Among them, there are also plant‐based supplements that contain phytochemical extracts with a pharmacological effect and consequently potential adverse reactions. We cannot estimate their safety profile as there are not required evidence‐based proofs before marketing. Though European Food Safety Authority is responsible for the risks derived from food supplements, there is not any centralized surveillance system of the commercialized supplements in Europe. Moreover, these products do not rely on a harmonised marketing legislation. The population is exposed unconsciously purchasing them in internet or other places that lack of a professional healthcare. Fragile subgroups like pregnant women, patients with concomitant therapies, are not aware of the risks of plant‐based supplements because the education strategies are not promoted enough. In the context of public health, the challenge is to implement measures in order to protect consumers against health risks. Future efforts are required to ensure standardised supplements. European regulatory programs should be harmonised. More clinical trials and toxicological studies should be conducted on commercial preparations. Accurate information sources could assure consumers about the correct use of botanicals.
Metformin in gestational diabetes mellitus: A double‐blind placebo‐controlled randomized trial
Authors: Tew Min P. , Tan Peng C. , Saaid Rahmah , Hong Jesrine G. S. , Omar Siti Z.
Published: April 2021

Objective

To evaluate the impact of preemptive metformin on the level of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) at 36 weeks of pregnancy in women with gestational diabetes mellitus controlled by diet change (GDMA1).

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was performed in a university hospital. Women with GDMA1 were recruited at 16–30 weeks of pregnancy and randomized to oral metformin 500 mg twice daily or identical placebo tablets to delivery. Level of HbA1c was taken at recruitment and at 36 weeks of pregnancy. The primary outcome was the change in level of HbA1c at recruitment and 36 weeks of pregnancy.

Results

Data from 106 participants were analyzed. The level of HbA1c during pregnancy increased significantly with a mean increase of 0.20% ± 0.31% (P < 0.001; metformin) versus 0.27% ± 0.31% (P < 0.001; placebo). An increment of 0.07% across trial arms was not significant (P = 0.310). Mean birth weight was significantly lower in the metformin group (2.81 ± 0.41 kg vs 2.98 ± 0.37 kg; P = 0.030). Rates of macrosomia (≥3.5 kg; 0/53 [0%] vs 4/53 [8%]; P = 0.123) and low birth weight (<2.5 kg; 11/53 [21%] vs 5/53 [9%]; P = 0.102) were not significantly different.

Conclusion

Preemptive metformin did not prevent the level of HbA1c at 36 weeks of pregnancy from rising nor significantly reduce the increase of HbA1c. Mean birth weight was significantly lower in the metformin arm with a non‐significant trend to low birth weight, which is concerning.

ISRCTN: ISRCTN10845466.
miR‐543 in human mesenchymal stem cell–derived exosomes promotes cardiac microvascular endothelial cell angiogenesis after myocardial infarction through COL4A1
Authors: Yang Mei , Liu Xueting , Jiang Manli , Li Jian , Tang Yaping , Zhou Lin
Published: April 2021

To explore the impact and mechanism of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) on the angiogenesis of cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (CMECs) after ischemia insult. Exosomes derived from hMSCs (hMSCs‐Exo) were identified by Western blotting and labeled by PHK‐67. CMECs were isolated from rat myocardial tissues. After hypoxic treatment, CMECs were cultured with hMSCs and exosome inhibitor (GW4869) or transfected with si‐COL4A1 + miR‐543 inhibitor. CMEC proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis were examined. Target genes of miR‐543 were predicted and then were identified by dual luciferase assay. Myocardial infarction (MI) rat model established by suture occlusion was intravenously injected with hMSCs‐Exo. Fluorescence microscope was applied to visualize exosomes in myocardial tissues. Infarction volume and pathologies of myocardial tissues were observed. Ki‐67 and miR‐543 expressions were detected. The isolated hMSC‐Exo expressed TSG101, HSP70, and CD63. Hypoxia‐treated CMECs cultured with hMSCs exhibited high proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis ability, while incubation with exosome inhibitor GW4969 offset the promoting effects of hMSCs on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of CMECs. hMSCs transfected with miR‐543 inhibitor brought CMECs weak viability and angiogenesis ability. CMECs transfected with si‐COL4A1 and miR‐543 inhibitor showed low proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis compared to those transfected with si‐COL4A1 alone. hMSCs‐Exo entered the myocardial tissues of MI rats. Injection of hMSCs‐Exo in MI rats diminished infarction size, attenuated MI‐induced injuries, and increased Ki‐67 expression. hMSCs‐Exo facilitates the proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis of CMECs through transferring miR‐543 and downregulating COL4A1 expression.
Characteristics and Early Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinomas Categorized as LR‐M: Comparison with Those Categorized as LR‐4 or 5
Authors: Shin Jaeseung , Lee Sunyoung , Kim Seung‐seob , Chung Yong Eun , Choi Jin‐Young , Park Mi‐Suk , Kim Myeong‐Jin
Published: April 2021

Background

According to the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI‐RADS), the LI‐RADS category M (LR‐M), which are probably or definitely malignant but are not specific for hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), does not exclude HCCs. A gap in knowledge remains, including their characteristics and recurrence of HCCs categorized as LR‐M.

Purpose

To compare the characteristics of HCCs categorized as LR‐M with HCCs categorized as LR‐4 or LR‐5 (LR‐4/5) using the LI‐RADS version 2018 and evaluate the relationship of these categories with the risk of early recurrence after curative resections of single HCCs.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Two hundred and eighty‐one patients (mean age, 57 years; 191 men and 90 women) who underwent curative resections for single HCCs and preoperative contrast‐enhanced MRI between 2015 and 2017.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T Dual gradient‐echo T1WI with in‐ and opposed‐phase, turbo spin‐echo T2WI, diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar images, and three‐dimensional gradient‐echo T1WI before and after administration of contrast agent.

Assessment

MRI features according to the LI‐RADS version 2018 were evaluated and LI‐RADS category were assigned for each observation. Clinical, imaging, and histopathological features were compared based on LI‐RADS categorization. Early recurrence rates (<2 years) and associated factors were also evaluated.

Statistical Tests

Fisher's exact test, two‐sample t test after satisfying assumption of normality through Shapiro–Wilk test, Fleiss κ coefficient, Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, Kaplan–Meier method, and log‐rank test.

Results

Forty‐one HCCs (14.6%) were categorized as LR‐M and 240 HCCs (85.4%) were categorized as LR‐4/5. LR‐M HCCs showed poorer differentiation than LR‐4/5 HCCs. In the multivariate analysis, the LR‐M category was an independent predictor for early recurrence (hazard ratio, 1.904; 95% confidence interval, 1.024–3.542; P < 0.05). Early recurrence rates were significantly higher in patients with LR‐M HCCs than in patients with LR‐4/5 HCCs (32.0% vs. 18.4%, respectively, P < 0 05).

Data Conclusion

Compared to LR‐4/5 HCCs, LR‐M HCCs were associated with poorer tumor differentiation and higher early recurrence rates after curative resections of single HCCs.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2
Purification of Bacillus licheniformis Lipase and its Application as an Additive in Detergent for Destaining
Authors: Bredai Rania , Belhaj Ben Romdhane Ines , Bouchaala Imen , Srih Belghith Karima , Belghith Hafedh
Published: April 2021

In this study, we aimed to optimize the nutritional and environmental conditions for the production of a novel lipase (LBL) from Bacillus licheniformis (GenBank accession no. MT118724). This strain was characterized by morphological and biochemical assays and Sanger sequencing of 16S rDNA. The crude lipolytic activity reached a maximum level 7.5 U mL−1 at 40 °C and pH 8.0 using olive oil as substrate. Additionally, the crude enzyme maintained 100% of its initial activity after incubation for 1 h at 50 °C and pH 9.0. It is mandatory to note that LBL lipase displayed appreciable stability over a wide pH range and extreme temperatures. After purification, the optimal lipolytic activity was observed at pH 8.0 and 40 °C. LBL was shown to be a monomeric protein with an estimated molecular weight of 40 kDa. This novel lipase exhibited high stability and excellent compatibility compared to lipase extracted from Thermomyces lanuginosa (Lipolase® from Novozymes, Denmark) toward various detergents. Washing performance analysis revealed that it efficiently removes tomato sauce stain from cotton cloth. All these interesting enzymatic properties favor this new lipase as a potent candidate for applications in detergent formulations.
Sustainable tourist behaviour: Developing a second order scale based on three destinations
Authors: Chandran Arun , Mandal Santanu , Shanmugeshwari Muthiah , Nair Gayathri , Das Payel , Ramachandran Naveen , John Elza
Published: April 2021

The current study develops a second order measurement instrument for sustainable tourist behaviour through confirmatory factor analysis from tourists' responses based on three prominent destinations in India namely, Goa, Munnar and Manali. Factorial validity, invariance analysis and nomological validity were also assessed. Results showed that STB is a second order reflective factor consisting of destination specific pro‐environmental, socially responsible, environmental learning, cultural and economically favourable behaviours. Furthermore, while environmental engagement is a significant enabler for STB, the latter contributes significantly in the development of memorable experiences and tourist satisfaction.
Hypoxia dynamics and spatial distribution in a low gradient river
Authors: Carter Alice M. , Blaszczak Joanna R. , Heffernan James B. , Bernhardt Emily S.
Published: April 2021

Deoxygenation of aquatic ecosystems is a key feature of the Anthropocene. Studies are increasingly reporting low oxygen conditions in rivers and headwater streams even in the absence of high nutrient loads. We examined the frequency of river hypoxia (dissolved oxygen [DO] < 50% saturated in O2) in the North Carolina Piedmont by examining monitoring records collected since the 1960s, and by collecting high‐resolution measurements of DO saturation along a 20 km segment of New Hope Creek. State records reported nearly 11,000 incidences of hypoxia from a total of ~ 140,000 measurements (7.8% over 55 yr). In contrast, our measurements in New Hope Creek suggest that assessing river hypoxia from point measurements is highly problematic. We propose new approaches for evaluating and comparing river oxygen regimes. In a detailed longitudinal survey of DO in May 2018, 31% of measurements over 20 km were hypoxic. Over a 3‐week period, 11 of our 12 sites throughout this segment experienced hypoxia 5%–96% of the time. Interannual comparisons for several long‐term monitoring sites document significant potential for hypoxia even in well‐aerated reaches during particularly warm, low flow periods. Oxygen regimes within this river vary between near continuous hypoxia to near continuous saturation and call into question the binary distinction between lotic and lentic oxygen dynamics with which we tend to categorize and model freshwater ecosystems.
Controlling and Phase‐Locking a THz Quantum Cascade Laser Frequency Comb by Small Optical Frequency Tuning
Authors: Consolino Luigi , Campa Annamaria , De Regis Michele , Cappelli Francesco , Scalari Giacomo , Faist Jérôme , Beck Mattias , Rösch Markus , Bartalini Saverio , De Natale Paolo
Published: April 2021

Full phase control of terahertz (THz)‐emitting quantum cascade laser (QCL) combs has recently been demonstrated, opening new perspectives for even the most demanding applications. In this framework, simplifying the set‐ups for control of these devices will help to accelerate their spreading in many fields. This study reports a new way to control the emission frequencies of a THz QCL comb by small optical frequency tuning (SOFT), using a very simple experimental setup, exploiting the incoherent emission of an ordinary white light‐emitting diode. The slightly perturbative regime accessible in these conditions allows tweaking the complex refractive index of the semiconductor without destabilizing the broadband laser gain. The SOFT actuator is characterized and compared to another actuator, the QCL driving current. The suitability of this additional degree of freedom for frequency and phase stabilization of a THz QCL comb is shown and perspectives are discussed.
Three solutions to mixed boundary value problem driven by p(z)‐Laplace operator
Authors: Vetro Calogero , Vetro Francesca
Published: April 2021

We prove the existence of at least three weak solutions to a mixed Dirichlet–Neumann boundary value problem for equations driven by the ‐Laplace operator in the principal part. Our approach is variational and use three critical points theorems.
Cylindrical Super‐Lattice Structures with Three‐Contrasts from Pentablock Binary Blends Studied by Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Suzuki Jiro , Suzuki Makoto , Takano Atsushi , Matsushita Yushu
Published: April 2021

The cylindrical super‐lattice structures with three‐contrasts from binary blends of four‐component pentablock quadpolymers, AB0CB1D and CB0AB1D, is studied, where B0 and B1 are the same polymer component. The difference in the architecture between two quadpolymers consists merely in the order of A and C block chains. The volume fractions of the first‐, third‐, and fifth‐components are denoted as φ1, φ3, and φ5, respectively, and γ is the volume fraction ratio of two B‐chains, γ = φB0/φB1. To form cylindrical domains with three‐contrasts in B‐matrix phase, φ1, φ3, and φ5 are fixed as φ1 = φ5 = 0.125 and φ3 = 0.156. At the large γ region, the (2+2) and (3+3) tiling super‐lattice structures appear, where each D‐domain is surrounded with two or three A‐ and C‐cylinders each and their basic tilings are of squares and regular hexagons. At the smaller γ region, untraditional (4+4) and (5+5)(3) cylindrical super‐lattice structures are observed, where each D‐domain is surrounded with four or five A‐ and C‐cylinders each as satellites. Since square and regular hexagon can give Euclidean regular tilings, traditional (2+2) and (3+3) structures can be easily formed, while (4+4) and (5+5)(3) untraditional cylindrical super‐lattice structures are exhibited simply because regular octagons and decagons cannot fill out 2D surface.
Trends in targeted delivery of nanomaterials in colon cancer diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Khan Firdos A. , Albalawi Reem , Pottoo Faheem H.
Published: April 2021

Colon cancer is an adenocarcinoma, which subsequently develops into malignant tumors, if not treated properly. The current colon cancer therapy mainly revolves around chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, but the search continues for more effective interventions. With the advancement of nanoparticles (NPs), it is now possible to diagnose and treat colon cancers with different types, shapes, and sizes of NPs. Nanoformulations such as quantum dots, iron oxide, polymeric NPs, dendrimers, polypeptides, gold NPs, silver NPs, platinum NPs, and cerium oxide have been either extensively used alone or in combination with other nanomaterials or drugs in colon cancer diagnosis, and treatments. These nanoformulations possess high biocompatibility and bioavailability, which makes them the most suitable candidates for cancer treatment. The size and shape of NPs are critical to achieving an effective drug delivery in cancer treatment and diagnosis. Most NPs currently are under different testing phases (in vitro, preclinical, and clinical), whereas some of them have been approved for therapeutic applications. We have comprehensively reviewed the recent advances in the applications of NPs‐based formulations in colon cancer diagnosis and treatment.
BH task force: COVID‐19 drives need for integrated physical, MH, SUD care
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: April 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has undoubtedly highlighted an urgent need to address rising behavioral health needs, and one way of doing that, suggests a task force of key stakeholders, is by integrating primary and behavioral health care. The upshot would be a patient‐centered approach that would be cost‐effective for payers and providers, reduce health disparities and improve patient outcomes, they stated.
Visual Isocenter Position Enhanced Review (VIPER): a Cherenkov imaging‐based solution for MR‐linac daily QA
Authors: Alexander Daniel A. , Bruza Petr , Rassias Aris G. , Andreozzi Jacqueline M. , Pogue Brian W. , Zhang Rongxiao , Gladstone David J.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study demonstrates a robust Cherenkov imaging‐based solution to MR‐Linac daily QA, including mechanical‐imaging‐radiation isocenter coincidence verification.

Methods

A fully enclosed acrylic cylindrical phantom was designed to be mountable to the existing jig, indexable to the treatment couch. An ABS plastic conical structure was fixed inside the phantom, held in place with 3D‐printed spacers, and filled with water allowing for high edge contrast on MR imaging scans. Both a star shot plan and a four‐angle sheet beam plan were delivered to the phantom; the former allowed for radiation isocenter localization in the x–z plane (A/P and L/R directions) relative to physical landmarks on the phantom, and the latter allowed for the longitudinal position of the sheet beam to be encoded as a ring of Cherenkov radiation emitted from the phantom, allowing for isocenter localization on the y‐axis (S/I directions). A custom software application was developed to perform near‐real‐time analysis of the data by any clinical user.

Results

Calibration procedures show that linearity between longitudinal position and optical ring diameter is high (R2 > 0.99), and that RMSE is low (0.184 mm). The star shot analysis showed a minimum circle radius of 0.34 mm. The final isocenter coincidence measurements in the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions were −0.61 mm, 0.55 mm, and −0.14 mm, respectively, and the total 3D distance coincidence was 0.83 mm, with each of these being below 2 mm tolerance.

Conclusion

This novel system provided an efficient, MR safe, all‐in‐one method for acquisition and near‐real‐time analysis of isocenter coincidence data. This represents a direct measurement of the 3D isocentricity. The combination of this phantom and the custom analysis application makes this solution readily clinically deployable after the longitudinal analysis of performance consistency.
Screening for oropharyngeal dysphagia in adult patients with neuromuscular diseases using the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire
Authors: Audag Nicolas , Liistro Giuseppe , Goubau Christophe , Vandervelde Laure , Poncin William , Toussaint Michel , Van den Bergh Peter , Reychler Gregory
Published: April 2021

Introduction/Aims

Oropharyngeal dysphagia is common in patients with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). Its early recognition is vital for proper management. We tested a large cohort of adult NMD patients for oropharyngeal dysphagia using the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ). We also looked for possible differences in characteristics of oropharyngeal dysphagia in various NMD groups and diseases. Finally, we compared results of this screening with those from their corresponding medical records for eventual “clinical history” of dysphagia.

Methods

We asked patients to fill in the SSQ during follow‐up outpatient visits at our neuromuscular reference center. A total score above the cutoff score of 118.5 out of 1700 was indicative of oropharyngeal dysphagia.

Results

Of the 304 adult patients assessed for eligibility, 201 NMD patients (96 women and 105 men, aged 49.0 ± 16.2 years) were included and tested in this study. Oropharyngeal dysphagia was detected in 45% of all the NMD patients when using the SSQ, whereas only 12% had a positive medical record for dysphagia. The median SSQ scores for patients with myotonic syndromes (including myotonic dystrophy type 1), with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and with facioscapulohumeral dystrophy were above the cutoff score. The SSQ scores obtained revealed distinct oropharyngeal dysphagia characteristics in the different NMD groups and diseases.

Discussion

The SSQ tests positively for oropharyngeal dysphagia in a higher proportion of NMD patients compared with their medical records. The distinct oropharyngeal dysphagia characteristics we revealed in different NMD groups and diseases may help to elaborate adapted clinical approaches in the management of oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Successful Restoration of a Native Fish Assemblage in the Blue River, Arizona
Authors: Hickerson Brian T. , Grube Elizabeth R. , Mosher Kent R. , Robinson Anthony T.
Published: April 2021

Translocation is one of the most commonly proposed management actions for securing and recovering native fish species. However, the success of native fish translocations has varied widely due to several limiting factors, including the presence of nonnative fishes. The Blue River Native Fish Restoration Project involved construction of a fish passage barrier, removal of nonnative fish, translocation of three native fish species (Spikedace Meda fulgida, Loach Minnow Rhinichthys cobitis, and Roundtail Chub Gila robusta), and monitoring to determine the success of these actions. After construction of a physical fish passage barrier, the three focal species were stocked several times upstream of the barrier. Nonnative fish were removed annually using multiple gear types, including spearfishing, backpack electrofishing, and trapping. Monitoring data demonstrated a significant shift in the fish assemblage from one with a substantial component of nonnative fishes to one that was exclusively native fishes. Persistence, reproduction, increased abundance, and dispersal were documented for all three focal species within the study area, meeting criteria for establishment success. All nonnative fishes, including the primary targets of removal efforts—Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus and Green Sunfish Lepomis cyanellus—were successfully suppressed, if not eradicated entirely, during the study period. Our results illustrate the importance of long-term monitoring to track and successfully achieve native fish recovery goals. In addition, our results demonstrate that nonnative fish can be mechanically removed from warmwater streams if initial abundance is low, distribution is restricted, and fish passage barriers are in place. Results from this study may be informative for managers hoping to improve the conservation status of warmwater stream fishes through creation of a fish passage barrier, nonnative species removal, and native fish translocation efforts.
Musculoskeletal impairments in children receiving intensive therapy for acute leukemia or undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Thompson Joel , Fisher Brian , Sung Lillian , Dvorak Christopher , Dang Ha , Lo Tammy , Alexander Sarah
Published: April 2021

Background

Children receiving intensive chemotherapy for leukemia or undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) for solid tumors or leukemia are at risk for musculoskeletal (MSK) impairment from their underlying disease and from treatment. Data are limited on the incidence and nature of these disorders during intensive therapy. This study's objective was to provide a cross‐sectional description of MSK impairments in this population.

Procedure

Children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (rALL), or undergoing HSCT were systematically assessed for MSK impairments as part of Children's Oncology Group study ACCL0934. Assessments occurred at study entry, at 2 months, and at 12 months and included evaluation for signs or symptoms of MSK impairment and the type, site, and diagnosis.

Results

Six hundred three patients were included. MSK signs or symptoms were present in 48 (8.0%) children at study entry, 64 (13.5%) children at 2 months, and 40 (11.6%) children at 12 months. Arthralgia and/or gait abnormalities were the most common impairments; the knee was the most common site. Arthritis and tendonitis were both rare. Vincristine neuropathy, MSK impacts from central nervous system pathology, and bone or joint pain from underlying cancer were the most common diagnoses. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that having rALL (odds ratio [OR] 2.00, 95% CI 1.07–3.76, p = .03) or obesity (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.12–3.95, p = .02) were risk factors for MSK impairment at study entry.

Conclusions

MSK impairments are common in this intensively treated patient population, especially in those with rALL and those who are obese.
A Tandem Mass Tags (TMTs) labeling approach highlights differences between the shoot proteome of two Arabidopsis thaliana ecotypes, Col‐0 and Ws
Authors: Leschevin Maïté , Marcelo Paulo , Ismael Marwa , San‐Clemente Hélène , Jamet Elisabeth , Rayon Catherine , Pageau Karine
Published: April 2021

Arabidopsis has become a powerful model to study morphogenesis, plant growth, development but also plant response to environmental conditions. Over 1000 Arabidopsis genomes are available and show natural genetic variations. Among them, the main reference accessions Wassilewskija (Ws) and Columbia (Col‐0), originally growing at contrasted altitudes and temperatures, are widely studied, but data contributing to their molecular phenotyping are still scarce. A global quantitative proteomics approach using isobaric stable isotope labeling (Tandem Mass Tags, TMT) was performed on Ws and Col‐0. Plants have been hydroponically grown at 16 h/8 h (light/dark cycle) at 23°C day/19°C night for three weeks. A TMT labeling of the proteins extracted from their shoots has been performed and showed a differential pattern of protein abundance between them. These results have allowed identifying several proteins families possibly involved in the differential responses observed for Ws and Col‐0 during plant development and upon environmental changes. In particular, Ws and Col‐0 mainly differ in photosynthesis, cell wall‐related proteins, plant defense/stress, ROS scavenging enzymes/redox homeostasis and DNA/RNA binding/transcription/translation/protein folding.
Enhanced photodegradation of TiO2‐containing poly(ε‐caprolactone)/poly(lactic acid) blends
Authors: Davis Brad J. , Thapa Kundu , Hartline Matthew C. , Fuchs Witold K. , Blanton Michael D. , Wiggins Jeffrey S. , Simon Yoan C.
Published: April 2021

The calamitous accumulation of plastic waste in the environment, especially single‐use disposables, calls for new approaches to materials design. One method to address the persistence of plastics beyond their intended use is to impart them with functionalities that will either allow for their recyclability or their degradation to basic natural components. This work focuses on the fabrication of photodegradable polyester blends and investigates the impact of compatibilization on photodegradation rates. Specifically, we blended poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) polymers by (reactive) extrusion in the presence or absence of dicumyl peroxide (DCP), a radical generator, and titanium dioxide (TiO2), an inorganic photocatalyst. We examined the effects of DCP and TiO2 loadings as well as copolymer composition on the thermomechanical properties, photodegradability, and morphology. We found that the inclusion of TiO2 dramatically increased flexural moduli and photodegradation rates in both dry and wet conditions, while reactive compatibilization had little effect of the tested properties. This simple and scalable approach is promising to fabricate materials that can readily photodegrade.