bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platelet and leukocyte count assay for thrombogenicity screening of biomaterials and medical devices: Evaluation and improvement of ASTM F2888 test standard
Authors: Lu Qijin , Nehrer Joshua M. , Li Jiaming , Jamiolkowski Megan A. , Rinaldi Jean E. , Malinauskas Richard A.
Published: June 2021

An appropriate preclinical thrombogenicity evaluation of a blood‐contacting device is important to reduce thrombosis and thromboembolism risks to patients. The in vitro platelet and leukocyte count assay, as described in the ASTM F2888 test standard, aims to assess thrombogenic potentials of blood‐contacting materials. The goals of this study were to evaluate whether this standardized test method can effectively differentiate materials with different thrombogenic potentials and to investigate the impact of anticoagulation conditions on test sensitivity. Using human blood with various anticoagulation conditions, we performed the platelet and leukocyte count assays on four biomaterials and three positive control materials. We found that the use of sodium citrate anticoagulation as stipulated in the 2013 version of the ASTM F2888 standard cannot differentiate materials with different thrombogenic potentials. The modification to use low‐concentration heparin, either with recalcified citrated blood or with direct heparinization, substantially improved the test sensitivity and enabled the assay to distinguish platelet count reduction between the positive controls and commonly used biomaterials. Leukocyte count was shown to be a much less sensitive indicator than platelet count for thrombogenicity evaluations of biomaterials. The findings from this study have been incorporated in the recent 2019 version of the ASTM F2888 standard.
Birth weight is positively associated with adult osteoporosis risk: observational and Mendelian randomization studies
Authors: Yu Xing-Hao , Wei Yong-Yue , Zeng Ping , Lei Shu-Feng
Published: June 2021

The relationship between birth weight and osteoporosis was inconsistent in previous observational studies. Therefore, we performed a systematic evaluation to determine the inconsistent relationship and further make causal inference based on the UK Biobank datasets (~500,000 individuals) and individual/summary-level genetic datasets. Observational analyses found consistent negative associations either between birth weight and estimated bone mineral density (eBMD) or between genetic risk score (GRS) of birth weight and eBMD in total subjects, and sex-stratified subgroups. Mediation analyses detected significant mediation effects of adult weight and height on associations between birth weight and eBMD. Birth weight was causally associated not only with three BMD phenotypes (eBMD, total body [TB]-BMD, and femoral neck [FN]-BMD) under two effect models (total and fetal effect), but also with the risk of fracture using different Mendelian randomization (MR) methods. Multivariable MR analyses detected the pleiotropic effects of some environmental factors (e.g., gestational duration, head circumference, hip circumference) on the associations between birth weight and BMD/fracture. Three BMD phenotypes (eBMD, TB-BMD, and FN-BMD) have significant mediation effects on the associations between birth weight and fracture by using a novel mediation MR analysis under the multivariable MR framework. This multistage systematic study found consistent causal associations between birth weight and osteoporosis risk, fetal origin of genetic effects underlying the associations, and several mediation factors on the detected associations. The results enhanced our understanding of the effects of fetal original phenotypes on outcomes in late adulthood and provided helpful clues for early prevention research on osteoporosis. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Dmp1Cre-directed knockdown of parathyroid hormone–related protein (PTHrP) in murine decidua is associated with a life-long increase in bone mass, width, and strength in male progeny
Authors: Ansari Niloufar , Isojima Tsuyoshi , Crimeen-Irwin Blessing , Poulton Ingrid J. , McGregor Narelle E. , Ho Patricia W. M. , Forwood Mark R. , Kovacs Christopher S. , Dimitriadis Evdokia , Gooi Jonathan H. , Martin T. John , Sims Natalie A.
Published: June 2021

Parathyroid hormone–related protein (PTHrP, gene name Pthlh) is a pleiotropic regulator of tissue homeostasis. In bone, Dmp1Cre-targeted PTHrP deletion in osteocytes causes osteopenia and impaired cortical strength. We report here that this outcome depends on parental genotype. In contrast to our previous report using mice bred from heterozygous (flox/wild type) Dmp1Cre.Pthlhf/w parents, adult (16-week-old and 26-week-old) flox/flox (f/f) Dmp1Cre.Pthlhf/f mice from homozygous parents (Dmp1Cre.Pthlhf/f(hom)) have stronger bones, with 40% more trabecular bone mass and 30% greater femoral width than controls. This greater bone size was observed in Dmp1Cre.Pthlhf/f(hom) mice as early as 12 days of age, when greater bone width was also found in male and female Dmp1Cre.Pthlhf/f(hom) mice compared to controls, but not in gene-matched mice from heterozygous parents. This suggested a maternal influence on skeletal size prior to weaning. Although Dmp1Cre has previously been reported to cause gene recombination in mammary gland, milk PTHrP protein levels were normal. The wide-bone phenotype was also noted in utero: Dmp1Cre.Pthlhf/f(hom) embryonic femurs were more mineralized and wider than controls. Closer examination revealed that Dmp1Cre caused PTHrP recombination in placenta, and in the maternal-derived decidual layer that resides between the placenta and the uterus. Decidua from mothers of Dmp1Cre.Pthlhf/f(hom) mice also exhibited lower PTHrP levels by immunohistochemistry and were smaller than controls. We conclude that Dmp1Cre leads to gene recombination in decidua, and that decidual PTHrP might, through an influence on decidual cells, limit embryonic bone radial growth. This suggests a maternal-derived developmental origin of adult bone strength. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Strategies for Broaching the Subjects of Race, Ethnicity, and Culture
Authors: Day‐Vines Norma L. , Cluxton‐Keller Fallon , Agorsor Courtney , Gubara Sarah
Published: June 2021

The Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies (MSJCC; Ratts et al., 2015) offer guidelines for counselors to deliver culturally responsive care to clients. Although the MSJCC broadly describe effective communication, specific skills are not included. This article provides counselors with strategies for discussing topics of race, ethnicity, and culture with clients. These strategies build on the MSJCC and are based in research on multicultural counseling best practices. Case examples are used to illustrate the application of these skills with diverse clients.
Synthesis and application of recyclable core‐shell structure microspheres MCTS‐g‐AT in detection of Hg(II) in aquatic products
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Zhang Jing , Xu Zimeng , Rao Chen , Pi Leilei , Fu Yaqin , Dong Yubing , Shen Chen , Yao Lanying , Xiong Chunhua
Published: June 2021

The MCTS‐g‐AT was developed as a novel magnetic adsorbent with core‐shell structure. Its unique synthesis route endows MCTS‐g‐AT with green, convenient, economical and safe characteristics, and also good selective adsorption of Hg(II). The material was characterized using an appropriate set of spectroscopic and analytical techniques (SEM, EDS, XRD, VSM, FTIR, and TGA). Its adsorption kinetics fits the pseudo‐secondary model well and adsorption isotherm fits the Langmuir equation well, suggesting the mechanism of chemisorption with monolayer adsorption. The results of the thermodynamic parameters indicate spontaneous and endothermic process. Column adsorption experiments showed that the maximum adsorption capacity of Hg(II) was 207.6 mg/g (298 K). Moreover, the Hg(II) adsorbed on composite microspheres was completely eluted by 3 mol/L HNO3 or 4 mol/L HCl. Furthermore, MCTS‐g‐AT adsorption column combined with spectrophotometer can achieve more accurate detection of Hg(II) in aquatic products.
Analysis of the diagnostic capabilities of urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin and serum procalcitonin for acute kidney injury at the early stage of critical care intensive care unit admission
Authors: Imoto Yuji , Wakasaki Ayano , Izumida Kumiko , Shimada Hiroshi , Ohkubo Kumiko , Kawano Yasumasa , Ishikura Hiroyasu , Matsunaga Akira
Published: June 2021

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a disease that negatively affects patient prognosis and requires early diagnosis and treatment. Biomarkers that predict AKI are needed for early diagnosis of this disease.

Methods

We compared the AKI group and the non‐AKI group in patients who were admitted to our critical care intensive care unit (ICU) and conducted a comparative study focusing on urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (U‐NGAL) and serum procalcitonin (PCT).

Results

Seventy‐one out of 106 ICU inpatients were diagnosed with AKI in accordance with the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Among the patients who were diagnosed with AKI stages 1 to 3, 94.4% of all patients reached the maximum stage by day 5 after admission. Comparing the non‐AKI group and AKI stage 1 to 3 on days 1 to 3 after admission, U‐NGAL and PCT levels in the stage 3 group were significantly higher than those in the non‐AKI group. Additionally, in receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis on days 1–3 after admission, U‐NGAL and PCT levels can be used as biomarkers for the diagnosis of AKI, and in particular, AKI stage 3 can be predicted and diagnosed with high accuracy. U‐NGAL and PCT levels were also significantly higher in AKI due to sepsis and acute pancreatitis and due to sepsis, respectively.

Conclusions

Measuring U‐NGAL and PCT levels as biomarkers for AKI may further improve the accuracy of AKI diagnosis in critical care ICU.
Association between preoperative lipid profiles and new‐onset diabetes after transplantation in Chinese kidney transplant recipients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ye Yangli , Gao Jian , Liang Jing , Yang Yinqiu , Lv Chaoyang , Chen Minling , Wang Jina , Zhu Dong , Rong Ruiming , Xu Ming , Zhu Tongyu , Yu Mingxiang
Published: June 2021

Background

This study investigated the association between the preoperative lipid profiles and new‐onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) in Chinese kidney transplant recipients (KTRs).

Methods

In this study, of 1140 KTRs registered between January 1993 and March 2018 in Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 449 were enrolled. Clinical data, obtained through a chart review of the patient records in the medical record system, were evaluated, and NODAT was diagnosed based on the American Diabetes Association guidelines. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was conducted to determine whether the preoperative lipid profiles in KTRs were independently associated with NODAT incidence. The preoperative lipid profiles were analyzed as continuous variables and grouped into tertiles. Smooth curve fitting was used to confirm the linear associations.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 28.03 (interquartile range 12.00–84.23) months, 104 of the 449 (23.16%) participants developed NODAT. The multivariate model analysis, adjusted for all potential covariates, showed that increased values of the following parameters were associated with NODAT (hazard ratio, 95% confidence interval): preoperative total cholesterol (TC; 1.25, 1.09–1.58, p = 0.0495), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C; 1.33, 1.02–1.75, p = 0.0352), non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (non‐HDL‐C; 1.41, 1.09–1.82, p = 0.0084), TC/HDL‐C (1.28, 1.06–1.54, p = 0.0109), and non‐HDL‐C/HDL‐C (1.26, 1.05–1.52, p = 0.0138). However, the association between the preoperative triglyceride, HDL‐C, or TG/HDL‐C and NODAT was not significant.

Conclusions

Preoperative TC, LDL‐C, non‐HDL‐C, TC/HDL‐C, and non‐HDL‐C/HDL‐C were independent risk factors for NODAT.
“I wanted to do more of the homework!”—Feasibility and acceptability of blending app‐based homework with group therapy for social cognition in psychosis
Authors: Sedgwick Ottilie , Hardy Amy , Greer Ben , Newbery Katie , Cella Matteo
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Evidence suggests social‐cognitive difficulties are linked to poor community functioning in people with psychosis, however, there is limited evidence that social‐cognition interventions improve functioning. This may be due to poor generalization of therapy learning; digital technologies may be useful to support this. This study evaluates the feasibility of a brief, blended intervention (group therapy plus app) for individuals with psychosis.

Methods

A total of 14 clients diagnosed with psychosis‐spectrum difficulties participated. Feasibility was assessed by referral, adherence and completion rates, and acceptability via semi‐structured interview (thematically analyzed).

Results

The procedures were considered feasible and acceptable. The face‐to‐face component of the intervention was particularly valued, and participants reported benefits to their daily lives. The app was experienced as helpful, alongside some difficulties.

Conclusions

Development of blended interventions may prove an important avenue to maximize the adherence and reach of psychological interventions. The results of this study reinforce the need to maintain face‐to‐face components alongside digital.
A link between protein acetylation and mitochondrial dynamics under energy metabolism: A comprehensive overview
Authors: Gu Huihui , Yang Kun , Wu Qiong , Shen Zhentong , Li Xinjian , Sun Chao
Published: June 2021

Cells adjust mitochondrial morphologies to coordinate between the cellular demand for energy and the availability of resources. Mitochondrial morphology is regulated by the balance between two counteracting mitochondrial processes of fusion and fission. Fission and fusion are dynamic and reversible processes that depend on the coordination of a number of proteins and are primarily regulated by posttranslational modifications. In the mitochondria, more than 20% of proteins are acetylated in proteomic surveys, partly involved in the dynamic regulation of mitochondrial fusion and fission. This article focuses on the molecular mechanism of the mitochondrial dynamics of fusion and fission, and summarizes the related mechanisms and targets of mitochondrial protein acetylation to regulate the mitochondrial dynamics of fusion and fission in energy metabolism.
Long noncoding RNAs in triple‐negative breast cancer: A new frontier in the regulation of tumorigenesis
Authors: Thakur Krishan K. , Kumar Aviral , Banik Kishore , Verma Elika , Khatoon Elina , Harsha Choudhary , Sethi Gautam , Gupta Subash C. , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B.
Published: June 2021

In recent years, triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) has emerged as the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer and is usually associated with increased mortality worldwide. The severity of TNBC is primarily observed in younger women, with cases ranging from approximately 12%–24% of all breast cancer cases. The existing hormonal therapies offer limited clinical solutions in completely circumventing the TNBC, with chemoresistance and tumor recurrences being the common hurdles in the path of TNBC treatment. Accumulating evidence has correlated the dysregulation of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with increased cell proliferation, invasion, migration, tumor growth, chemoresistance, and decreased apoptosis in TNBC. Various clinical studies have revealed that aberrant expression of lncRNAs in TNBC tissues is associated with poor prognosis, lower overall survival, and disease‐free survival. Due to these specific characteristics, lncRNAs have emerged as novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for TNBC treatment. However, the underlying mechanism through which lncRNAs perform their actions remains unclear, and extensive research is being carried out to reveal it. Therefore, understanding of mechanisms regulating the modulation of lncRNAs will be a substantial breakthrough in effective treatment therapies for TNBC. This review highlights the association of several lncRNAs in TNBC progression and treatment, along with their possible functions and mechanisms.
αB‐crystallin/HSPB2 is critical for hyperactive mTOR‐induced cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Lianmei , Wang Fang , Liu Kemei , Long Caifeng , Chen Yi , Li Chunjia , Li Li , Liu Fangming , Zhang Xinyu , Jing Yanling , Wang Yanan , Liang Aihua , Yan Hongbing , Zhang Hongbing
Published: June 2021

Even though aberrant mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is known to cause cardiomyopathy, its underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Because augmentation of αB‐crystallin and hspB2 was presented in the cortical tubers and lymphangioleiomyomatosis of tuberous sclerosis complex patients, we deciphered the role of αB‐crystallin and its adjacent duplicate gene, hspB2, in hyperactive mTOR‐induced cardiomyopathy. Cardiac Tsc1 deletion (T1‐hKO) caused mouse mTOR activation and cardiomyopathy. Overexpression of αB‐crystallin and hspB2 was presented in the hearts of these mice. Knockout of αB‐crystallin/hspB2 reversed deficient Tsc1‐mediated fetal gene expression, mTOR activation, mitochondrial damage, cardiomyocyte vacuolar degeneration, cardiomyocyte size, and fibrosis of T1‐hKO mice. These cardiac‐Tsc1; αB‐crystallin; hspB2 triple knockout (tKO) mice had improved cardiac function, smaller heart weight to body weight ratio, and reduced lethality compared with T1‐hKO mice. Even though activated mTOR suppressed autophagy in T1‐hKO mice, ablation of αB‐crystallin and hspB2 failed to restore autophagy in tKO mice. mTOR inhibitors suppressed αB‐crystallin expression in T1‐hKO mice and rat cardiomyocyte line H9C2. Starvation of H9C2 cells activated autophagy and suppressed αB‐crystallin expression. Since inhibition of autophagy restored αB‐crystallin expression in starved H9C2 cells, autophagy is a negative regulator of αB‐crystallin expression. mTOR thus stimulates αB‐crystallin expression through suppression of autophagy. In conclusion, αB‐crystallin and hspB2 play a pivotal role in Tsc1 knockout‐related cardiomyopathy and are therapeutic targets of hyperactive mTOR‐associated cardiomyopathy.
COVID‐19 is Feminine: Grammatical Gender Influences Danger Perceptions and Precautionary Behavioral Intentions by Activating Gender Stereotypes
Authors: Mecit Alican , Shrum L. J. , Lowrey Tina M.
Published: June 2021

Gendered languages assign masculine and feminine grammatical gender to all nouns, including nonhuman entities. In French and Spanish, the name of the disease resulting from the virus (COVID‐19) is grammatically feminine, whereas the virus that causes the disease (coronavirus) is masculine. In this research, we test whether the grammatical gender mark affects judgments. In a series of experiments with French and Spanish speakers, we show that grammatical gender affects virus‐related judgments consistent with gender stereotypes: feminine‐ (vs. masculine‐) marked terms for the virus lead individuals to assign lower stereotypical masculine characteristics to the virus, which in turn reduces their danger perceptions. The effect generalizes to precautionary consumer behavior intentions (avoiding restaurants, movies, public transportation, etc.) as well as to other diseases and is moderated by individual differences in chronic gender stereotyping. These effects occur even though the grammatical gender assignment is semantically arbitrary.
β‐Mannanase production by Penicillium citrinum through solid‐state fermentation using açaí residual biomass (Euterpe oleracea)
Authors: Lima Anna C , Silva Diego , Silva Victória , Godoy Mateus , Cammarota Magali , Gutarra Melissa
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Açaí core (Euterpe oleracea) is a residual biomass with high mannan content; thus it can become a good inducer for mannanase production by solid‐state fermentation (SSF). β‐Mannanase production from Penicillium citrinum was investigated using açaí seed as inducer and carbon source through SSF, as well as the properties of β‐mannanase in the crude extract.

RESULTS

In this study, a two‐stage screening was performed. The P. citrinum strain exhibited high specific enzymatic activity (29 ± 0.2 U mg−1 protein). Nitrogen addition was necessary to improve β‐mannanase activity (an increase of 389% with sodium nitrate). The effect of pH and temperature on β‐mannanase activity in the crude extract was evaluated, with the highest activity found at pH 4.6 and a temperature of 40–60 °C. The enzymes exhibited good thermal stability with 5 h of incubation at 40, 50 and 60 °C, retaining 90%, 55% and 60% of the initial activity, respectively. Furthermore, P. citrinum β‐mannanase exhibited high specificity against ivory nut mannan (234% relative activity), good activity in the presence of a range of metal ions and the ability to hydrolyze locust bean gum, producing mannose and mannooligosaccharides.

CONCLUSION

Based on such data, açaí seed can be used as an inducer of β‐mannanase. The P. citrinum crude enzymatic extract, rich in β‐mannanase, has potential industrial applications, especially in the food and feed industries.
Effects of dust deposition from diamond mining on subarctic plant communities and barren‐ground caribou forage
Authors: Watkinson Autumn D. , Virgl John , Miller Valerie S. , Naeth M. Anne , Kim Jaewoo , Serben Kerrie , Shapka Chris , Sinclair Sean
Published: June 2021

Dust produced from mining has the potential to reduce plant cover, alter plant communities, and increase metal concentrations in vegetation—changes that may affect the amount, type, and quality of forage for barren‐ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus). We quantified dust deposition from Diavik Diamond Mine (Northwest Territories, Canada) and investigated the changes on forage quality, type, and quantity for caribou. From 2002 to 2016, dust deposition was measured, and vegetation cover and richness were assessed in permanent plots established adjacent to the mine and in reference areas 1–6 km from the mine. Lichen was collected from areas up to 100 km from the mine to determine metal concentrations. Dust deposition rapidly decreased within 4 km of the mine. Plant communities adjacent to the mine (within 500 m) had disproportionately increased cover of vascular plants and decreased bryophyte and lichen cover. Lichen sampled within 4 km from the mine had greater metal concentrations than those sampled farther afield. Concentrations of Al in lichen collected within 40 km of the mine exceeded safe exposure limits for consumption, assuming lichen comprised 100% of caribou diet. We conclude that dust deposition from mining is altering adjacent vegetation communities but that such changes to forage are unlikely to cause negative effects to caribou due to reduced lichen intake in summer and autumn, their migratory nature, and avoidance of mine‐influenced areas. However, minimization and reclamation of mine‐related disturbances will be important for maintaining sufficient quality forage and available habitat or space in caribou ranges.
Circular RNA circ_0001588 sponges miR‐211‐5p to facilitate the progression of glioblastoma via up‐regulating YY1 expression
Authors: Wang Qian , Zheng Dahai , Li Yuhan , Zhang Ye , Sui Rui , Chen Yi , Liang Haiyang , Shi Ji , Pan Renlong , Xu Xiaobing , Sun Deyu
Published: June 2021

Background

As the most common and detrimental brain tumor with high invasiveness and poor prognosis, glioblastoma (GBM) has severely threatened people's health globally. Therefore, it is of great importance and necessary to identify the molecular mechanisms involved in tumorigenesis and development, thus contributing to potential therapeutic targets and strategies.

Methods

The level of circ_0001588 was detected in 68 pairs of GBM tissues and adjacent normal tissues and human glioma cell lines via a real‐time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Then, the effect of circ_0001588 on the proliferation, migration and invasion of glioma cells was evaluated. In addition, potential downstream targets of circ_0001588 were forecasted by circBANK and Starbase. Their interaction was confirmed by introducing luciferase reporter assays. Moreover, sh‐circ_0001588 transfected U251 cells were used to form tumors in vivo. Finally, the functional mechanism of circ_0001588 was identified by qRT‐PCR, western blotting, xenograft and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays.

Results

The expression of circ_0001588 is markedly up‐regulated in GBM tissues and human gliomas cells. Additionally, increased expression of circ_0001588 is positively relevant with poor survival in GBM patients. The down‐regulation of circ_0001588 distinctly inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of GBM in vitro, as well as tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, knockdown of circ_0001588 reduces the tumor volume and weight, enhances the relative IHC staining index of E‐cadherin and decreases the relative IHC staining index of Ki‐67, Yin Yang 1 (YY1) and vinmentin in vivo. Mechanistically, circ_0001588 locates in the cytoplasm, which is directly bound with miR‐211‐5p. Furthermore, circ_0001588 can positively regulate YY1 via sponging miR‐211‐5p. Moreover, circ_0001588 accelerates the proliferation, migration and invasion of GBM by modulating miR‐211‐5p/YY1 signaling.

Conclusions

These results illustrate a new circ_0001588/miR‐211‐5p/YY1 regulatory signaling axis in GBM.
Visual monitoring and optical recognition of digoxin by functionalized AuNPs and triangular AgNPs as efficient optical nano‐probes
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Arezoo , Pashazadeh‐Panahi Paria , Hasanzadeh Mohammad
Published: June 2021

In this study, we presented elective, sensitive, and rapid UV‐Vis spectrophotometry and calorimetric assay for the recognition of digoxin. Therefore, cysteamine‐gold nanoparticles (Cys A‐AuNPs) in the presence of cysteine acid amine and Silver nanoparticles in the presence of tetramethyl benzidine and hydrogen peroxide (AgNPs‐TMB [3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine]‐H2O2) were synthesized and utilized as the desired probe. Finally, color variation of probes was observed in the absence and presence of digoxin. Obtained results indicate that the color of Cys A‐AuNPs changed from dark pink to light in the absence and the presence of digoxin, respectively. Also, the color of AgNPs‐TMB‐H2O2 changed from dark blue to light blue, in the absence and the presence of digoxin, respectively. Moreover, UV‐Vis spectroscopies results indicate digoxin with a low limit of quantification of 0.125 ppm in human plasma samples which linear range was 0.125 to 11 ppm.
Interferon‐alpha position in combating with COVID‐19: A systematic review
Authors: Nakhlband Ailar , Fakhari Ali , Azizi Hosein
Published: June 2021

The newborn coronaivus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has become the foremost concern of health system worldwide. Interferon typeI (IFN‐I) are among the well‐known antiviruses. Hence IFN‐α have gained much attention as a treatment for COVID‐19 recently. To sum up the efficiency of IFN‐α against COVID‐19, we searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and EMBASE, from the date of genesis to the 1st of October 2020. Discharge from hospital and virus clearance considered as primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. We compared the aforementioned outcomes of patients treated with standard care protocol and the patients treated with IFN‐α in addition to standard care protocol. Out of 356 identified records, 14 studies were subjected for full‐text screening. Finally, a systematic review was performed with inclusion of five studies. Majority of the participants were males (ranged from 43.50% to 90.0%). We found that time of viral clearance and polymerase chain reaction negative (days) in most studies were decreased in the INF‐α + standard care group. The mean days of virus's clearance in INF‐α group and standard group reported 27.3 and 32.43. Likewise, the average days of hospitalization was found also lower in INF‐α group (18.55 vs. 24.36). This study provides a stand to conclude that early administration of INF‐α may be accounted as a promising treatment of COVID‐19.
NADP+‐dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase isozymes from a psychrotrophic bacterium, Psychrobacter sp. strain 13A
Authors: Komura Tatsuhiko , Takada Yasuhiro
Published: June 2021

The genes encoding dimeric and monomeric isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) isozymes from a psychrotrophic bacterium, strain 13A (13AIDH‐D and 13AIDH‐M, respectively), were cloned and sequenced. The deduced amino acid sequences of these two IDHs showed high degrees of identity with those of bacteria of genus Psychrobacter. Analysis of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene of the strain 13A revealed that this bacterium is classified to genus Psychrobacter. The optimum temperatures for activities of 13AIDH‐D and 13AIDH‐M were 55°C and 45°C, respectively, indicating that they are mesophilic. On the contrary, 13AIDH‐D maintained 90% of its maximum activity after incubation for 10 min at 50°C, while the 13AIDH‐M activity was completely lost under the same condition. In addition, 13AIDH‐D showed much higher specific activity than 13AIDH‐M. From northern and western blot analyses, the 13AIDH‐D gene was found to be not transcribed under the growth conditions tested in this study. However, the catalytic ability of the mesophilic 13AIDH‐M was concluded to be enough to sustain the growth of strain 13A at low temperatures. Therefore, a novel pattern of the contribution of IDH isozymes in cold‐living bacteria to their growth at low temperatures was confirmed in strain 13A.
Changes in anthropogenic particulate matters and resulting global climate effects since the Industrial Revolution
Authors: Yang Dongdong , Zhang Hua , Wang Zhili , Zhao Shuyun , Li Jiangnan
Published: June 2021

In order to quantify air pollution effects on climate change, we investigated the climate response associated with anthropogenic particulate matters (PMs) by dividing fine PM (PM2.5, particle size ≤2.5 μm) and coarse particulate matter (CPM, particle size >2.5 μm) in great detail in this work, with an aerosol‐climate coupled model. We find that the changes in PM2.5 and CPM are very different and thus result in different, even opposite effects on climate, especially on a regional scale. The column burden of PM2.5 increases globally from 1850 to the present, especially over Asia's southern and eastern parts, whereas the column concentration of CPM increases over high‐latitude regions and decreases over South Asia. The resulted global annual mean effective radiative forcing (ERF) values due to PM2.5 and CPM changes are −1.21 W·m−2 and −0.24 W·m−2, respectively. Increases in PM2.5 result in significant cooling effects on the climate, whereas changes in CPM produce small and even opposite effects. The global annual mean surface air temperature (SAT) decreases by 0.94 K due to PM2.5 increase. Coolings caused by increased PM2.5 are more apparent over Northern Hemisphere (NH) terrain and ocean at mid‐ and high latitudes. Increases in SATs caused by increased CPM are identified over high latitudes in the NH, whereas decreases are identified over mid‐latitude regions. Strong cooling due to increased PM2.5 causes a southward shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), whereas the Hadley circulation associated with CPM is enhanced slightly over both hemispheres, along with the weak movement of corresponding ITCZ. The global annual mean precipitation decreases by approximately 0.11 mm day−1 due to the increased PM2.5. Generally, PM2.5 concentration changes contribute more than 80% of the variation caused by all anthropogenic aerosols in ERF, SAT, cloud fraction, and precipitation.
Relationship between the interannual and intraseasonal temperature variability in Northeast China
Authors: Li Wenhui , Tan Guirong , Li Tim
Published: June 2021

A significant negative correlation between the seasonal mean temperature anomaly and the intensity of the intraseasonal temperature oscillation in the northern winter over Northeast China is found during the time period 1959–2011. A stronger intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) is found during an extremely cold winter. The cold winter in Northeast China is a part of zonally oriented large‐scale pattern with a negative (positive) temperature anomaly in mid‐ (high) latitudes and is associated with a negative phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). The intraseasonal temperature anomaly originates from high‐latitude Central Eurasia and propagates southeastward. The southeastward propagation is attributed to the upper tropospheric dispersion of Rossby wave energy as a result of coupling of the low‐level temperature and the upper‐level geopotential height. The cause of the negative correlation between the intraseasonal and interannual modes is investigated. A cold winter in Northeast China is associated with a weakened meridional temperature gradient and vertical wind shear north of 50°N. This weakens synoptic variability in situ through baroclinic instability. Because the ISO competes for an energy source with the synoptic motion, the ISO is enhanced north of 50°N. The southeastward propagation of the enhanced ISO mode increased intraseasonal temperature variability over Northeast China. As a result, a cold winter in Northeast China is accompanied by an enhanced ISO variability in situ. The enhanced local ISO could further feedback to the winter mean temperature anomaly through nonlinear advective processes. The diagnosis of the temperature budget indicates that the ISO may interact with motion on other scales to contribute to the winter mean temperature anomaly in situ.
Development and validation of a rapid high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic method for quantification of gallic acid, cinnamic acid, piperine, eugenol, and glycyrrhizin in Divya‐Swasari‐Vati, an ayurvedic medicine for respiratory ailments
Authors: Balkrishna Acharya , Sharma Priyanka , Joshi Monali , Srivastava Jyotish , Varshney Anurag
Published: June 2021

Divya‐Swasari‐Vati is a calcium containing polyherbal ayurvedic medicine prescribed for the lung‐related ailments observed in the current pandemic of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 infections. The formulation is a unique quintessential blend of nine herbs cited in Ayurvedic texts for chronic cough and lung infection. Analytical standardization of herbal medicines is the pressing need of the hour to ascertain the quality compliance. This persuaded us to develop a simple, rapid, and selective high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic method for Divya‐Swasari‐Vati quality standardization. The developed method was validated for the quantification of marker components, gallic acid, cinnamic acid, piperine, eugenol and glycyrrhizin, against reference standards in five different batches of Divya‐Swasari‐Vati. The analytes were identified by visualization at 254 nm, and by matching their retention factor with authentic standards. The developed method was validated as per the guidelines recommended by the International Council for Harmonization for parameters like, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, accuracy, and precision. Therefore, the developed novel high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic process could be employed for rapid standardization of Divya‐Swasari‐Vati and other related herbal formulation, which would aid in quality manufacturing and product development.
Profiling and quantitative analysis of underivatized fatty acids in Chlorella vulgaris microalgae by liquid chromatography‐high resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Montone Carmela Maria , Aita Sara Elsa , Catani Martina , Cavaliere Chiara , Cerrato Andrea , Piovesana Susy , Laganà Aldo , Capriotti Anna Laura
Published: June 2021

Chlorella vulgaris is a popular microalga used for biofuel production; nevertheless, it possesses a strong cell wall that hinders the extraction of molecules, especially lipids within the cell wall. For tackling this issue, we developed an efficient and cost‐effective method for optimal lipid extraction. Microlaga cell disruption by acid hydrolysis was investigated comparing different temperatures and reaction times; after hydrolysis, lipids were extracted with n‐hexane. The best recoveries were obtained at 140°C for 90 min. The microalgae were then analyzed by an untargeted approach based on liquid chromatography with high‐resolution mass spectrometry, providing the tentative identification of 28 fatty acids. First, a relative quantification on the untargeted data was performed using peak area as a surrogate of analyte abundance. Then, a targeted quantitative method was validated for the tentatively identified fatty acids, in terms of recovery (78‐100%), intra‐ and interday relative standard deviations (<10 and <9%, respectively) and linearity (R2 > 0.98). The most abundant fatty acids were palmitic, palmitoleic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and stearic acids.
Computed tomographic features of the proximal petrous facial nerve canal in recurrent Bell's palsy
Authors: Touska Philip , Dudau Cristina , Patel Janki , Montvila Antanas , Pucetaite Milda , Obholzer Rupert , Pai Irumee , Connor Steve
Published: June 2021

Objectives

The primary objective was to determine whether the narrowest dimensions of the labyrinthine facial nerve (LFN) canal on the symptomatic side in patients with unilateral recurrent Bell's palsy (BP) differ from those on the contralateral side or in asymptomatic, age‐ and gender‐matched controls on computed tomography (CT). The secondary objectives were to assess the extent of bony covering at the geniculate ganglion and to record inter‐observer reliability of the CT measurements.

Methods

The dimensions of the LFN canal at its narrowest point perpendicular to the long axis and the extent of bony covering at the geniculate ganglion were assessed by two radiologists. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon signed‐rank and Mann‐Whitney U tests (LFN canal dimensions) and the Chi‐squared test (bony covering at the geniculate ganglion). Inter‐observer reliability was evaluated using Intra‐Class Correlation (ICC) and Cohen's kappa.

Results

The study included 21 patients with unilateral recurrent BP and 21 asymptomatic controls. There was no significant difference in the narrowest dimensions of the ipsilateral LFN canal when compared to the contralateral side or controls (P = .43‐.94). Similarly, there was no significant difference in the extent of bony covering at the geniculate ganglion when compared to either group (P = .19‐.8). Good inter‐observer reliability was observed for LFN measurements (ICC = 0.75‐0.88) but not for the bony covering at the geniculate ganglion (Cohen's kappa = 0.53).

Conclusion

The narrowest dimensions of the LFN canal and the extent of bony covering at the geniculate ganglion do not differ in unilateral recurrent BP, casting doubt over their etiological significance.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Photobiomodulation as an Adjunctive Treatment to Physiotherapy for Reduction of Anterior Knee Pain in Combat Soldiers: A Prospective, Double‐Blind, Randomized, Pragmatic, Sham‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Gavish Lilach , Spitzer Elad , Friedman Ilan , Lowe Joseph , Folk Nathalie , Zarbiv Yonaton , Gelman Evgeny , Vishnevski Lev , Fatale Evgeny , Herman Michael , Gofshtein Roni , Gam Arnon , Gertz S. David , Eisenkraft Arik , Barzilay Yair
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

Anterior knee pain (AKP) is the most common knee pathology in athletes and occurs in 15% of army recruits of elite units during basic training. Of these, 50% are symptomatic 6 years later. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a nonthermal red‐to‐near‐infrared irradiation used for pain reduction of a variety of etiologies. This study was designed to determine whether addition of PBM to physiotherapy (PT) for AKP in combat soldiers is superior to PT alone.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In this prospective, double‐blind, sham‐controlled, randomized clinical trial (NCT02845869), 26 combat soldiers/policemen (male:female, 15:11; body mass index [BMI] = 24.2 ± 3.9,n = 46 knees), with AKP due to overuse/load, received 4 weeks of PT + sham (PT + Sham) or active PBM (wavelength = 660 and 850 nm, pulsing = 2.5 Hz, LED power = 50 mW/cm2[local tissue/regional lymph nodes]; 810 nm continuous beam, laser cluster 6 W/cm2[analgesia] and laser pointer 4.75 W/cm2[trigger points]) (PT + PBM). The main outcome measures were subjective pain by visual analog scale (VAS) (0 [none]–100 [intolerable]) and functional disability by Kujala score (0 [worst]–100 [best]). Evaluations were carried out at baseline, end of treatments, and 3‐month follow‐up.

Results

All participants completed the treatment protocol without any reported adverse device effects. Post‐treatment pain was significantly reduced in the PT+PBM group, compared with baseline and sham (Δpain, VAS, mean ± SD: PT + PBM = −19 ± 23,P = 0.002; PT + Sham = −6 ± 21,P = 0.16; between groups,P = 0.032). At 3‐month follow‐up, pain reduction was similar between groups; however, the Kujala score was significantly improved only in the PBM‐treated group (ΔKujala: PT + PBM = 11 ± 10,P = 0.003; PT + Sham = 5 ± 7,P = 0.059).

Conclusions

Addition of PBM to PT for AKP resulted in earlier reduction in pain and improved functionality, compared with PT alone. This noninvasive, nonpharmacologic, adjunctive therapeutic modality can be easily incorporated into team healthcare frameworks or end units and may lead to earlier return to competition or combat‐level service. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Autophagy modulates FSS‐induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Su Guanyue , Feng Tang , Pei Tong , Yang Fan , Sun Denglian , Yu Hongchi , Wang Xiaoli , Gao Wenbo , He Jia , Shen Yang , Liu Xiaoheng
Published: June 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a highly fatal disease and threatens human health seriously. Fluid shear stress (FSS), which is caused by the leakage of plasma from abnormally permeable tumor blood vessels and insufficient lymphatic drainage, has been identified as contributing pathologically to cancer metastasis. Autophagy and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) are both reported to be involved in cancer cell migration and invasion, but little has been revealed about the interaction between autophagy and EMT under a tumor mechanical microenvironment. Here, we identified that exposure to 1.4 dyne/cm2 FSS could promote the formation of autophagosomes and significantly increase the expressions of autophagy‐related markers of beclin1 and ATG7, and the ratio of LC3Ⅱ/Ⅰ in both of HepG2 and QGY‐7703 cells. The FSS loading also elevated the levels of mesenchymal markers N‐cadherin, Vimentin, Twist, Snail, and β‐catenin, while the epithelial markers E‐cadherin showed a decrease. Once the autophagy was blocked by 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) or knocking ATG5 down, the occurrence of FSS‐induced EMT was inhibited dramatically according to the expression and translocation of E‐cadherin, N‐cadherin, and β‐catenin. Given the effect of EMT on cell migration, we observed that inhibition of autophagy could impede FSS‐induced cell migration. Collectively, this study demonstrated that autophagy played a crucial role in FSS‐induced EMT and cell migration in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Industry cash flow volatility and stock price crash risk
Authors: Wang Bing , Ho Kung‐Cheng , Liu Xinyu , Gu Yan
Published: June 2021

This study examines the effect of industry cash flow volatility on the risks of stock price crash by investigating Chinese A‐share listed companies from 2005 to 2015. Findings reveal that increases in the degree of volatility in industry cash flow significantly increase the risk of a stock price crash, and the conclusion remains valid after the robustness test. Further empirical research reveals that a higher level of product market competition and a higher level of policy uncertainty increase the positive effect of industry cash flow volatility on stock price crash risks, which confirms the moderating effect of product market competition and policy uncertainty. The effect of reducing the degree of accounting conservatism and increasing the optimism of analysts' earnings forecasts is analyzed and revealed as interim steps in the mechanism of the effect of industry cash flow volatility on the company's stock price crash risk. Overall, this evidence highlights the severe consequence of industry cash flow volatility on crash risks, which should encourage researchers, investors, and regulators to address the management of industry cash flow volatility.
Informal competition and firm performance: Impacts on input‐ versus output performance
Authors: Goel Rajeev K. , Mazhar Ummad , Ram Rati
Published: June 2021

Using data on more than 100 emerging nations, this paper considers the impact of informal competition on the performance of formal sector firms. Unique aspects include comparing the effects on input performance (via total factor productivity [TFP]) with those on output performance (via sales per worker). Grounding the empirical analysis in the theory of vertical integration into research, results show informal competition to undermine firms' performance. Furthermore, technology outsourcing, rather than in‐house innovation, appears to be effective in boosting performance for firms facing underground competition. Finally, the performance impact of informal competition is sensitive to the existing level of performance.
An extended aggregate basis function method for composite structure with periodic array
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Du Ping
Published: June 2021

The extended aggregate basis function method (EABFM) is proposed to analyze the electromagnetic scattering by the composite structure with periodic array. The generation of the impedance matrix in the EABFM is still time consuming. The fast dipole method (FDM) and the equivalent dipole‐moment method (EDM) are applied to accelerate the fill‐in of the matrix. Several numerical examples are performed. Simulation results validate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.
Fiber‐optic whispering‐gallery‐mode magnetic field sensor based on magnetic fluid infiltrated hollow core fiber
Authors: Zhang Junying , Tian Chen , Wang Ruohui , Chen Haibin , Zhang Xiongxing , Guo Zilong , Wang Wei
Published: June 2021

A fiber‐optic magnetic field sensor based on magnetic fluid (MF) infiltrated hollow core fiber (HCF) was proposed. The MF infiltrated HCF was used as a micro‐capillary ring resonator, in which, whispering‐gallery modes (WGMs) were exited through a closely placed tapered fiber. Through the intensity modulation introduced by external magnetic field on the resonance dip of the WGM excited in the MF infiltrated HCF, magnetic field measurement can be realized through a cost‐effective way. Experimental results demonstrated a magnetic field linear measurement range of 40–140 Oe, and a sensitivity of 0.04 dB/Oe.
Application of aromatic amide‐derived atropisomers as chiral solvating agents for discrimination of optically active mandelic acid derivatives in 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Zheng Xiaojing , Tang Tingfeng , Li Li , Xu Li‐Wen , Huang Shaohua , Zhao Yufen
Published: June 2021

Non‐biaryl atropisomers and their stereochemistry have attracted much attentions in the past years. However, application of the non‐biaryl atropisomers as chiral solvating agents is yet to be explored. In this work, four aromatic amide‐derived atropisomeric phosphine ligands (hosts) were used as chiral solvating agents to recognize various mandelic acid derivatives (guests) in 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. It is found that chiral center configurations of the four hosts have different effects on the enantiorecognition to the used guests. In addition, the host and guest interaction was further investigated by determination of the host–guest complex stoichiometry using the Job's method and density functional theory calculation, respectively. Moreover, chiral analysis accuracy of these hosts was evaluated through relationship between enantiomeric excess values of 4‐chloromandelic acid provided by NMR and gravimetry, respectively.