bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Biosynthetic Potential of TsrM, a B12‐dependent Radical SAM Methyltransferase Catalyzing Non‐radical Reactions
Authors: Soualmia Feryel , Guillot Alain , Sabat Nazarii , Brewee Clémence , Kubiak Xavier , Haumann Michael , Guinchard Xavier , Benjdia Alhosna , Berteau Olivier
Published: March 2022

B12‐dependent radical SAM enzymes are an emerging enzyme family with approximately 200,000 proteins. These enzymes have been shown to catalyze chemically challenging reactions such as methyl transfer to sp2‐ and sp3‐hybridized carbon atoms. However, to date we have little information regarding their complex mechanisms and their biosynthetic potential. Here we show, using X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, mutagenesis and synthetic probes that the vitamin B12‐dependent radical SAM enzyme TsrM catalyzes not only C‐ but also N‐methyl transfer reactions further expanding its synthetic versatility. We also demonstrate that TsrM has the unique ability to directly transfer a methyl group to the benzyl core of tryptophan, including the least reactive position C4. Collectively, our study supports that TsrM catalyzes non‐radical reactions and establishes the usefulness of radical SAM enzymes for novel biosynthetic schemes including serial alkylation reactions at particularly inert C−H bonds.
A comparative study of model approximation methods applied to economicMPC
Authors: Huang Zhiyinan , Liu Qinyao , Liu Jinfeng , Huang Biao
Published: March 2022

Economic model predictive control (EMPC) has attracted significant attention in recent years and is recognized as a promising advanced process control method for next‐generation smart manufacturing. It has the potential to not only improve economic performance but also significantly increase computational complexity. Model approximation has been a standard approach for reducing computational complexity in process control. In this work, we perform a study on three types of representative model approximation methods applied to EMPC, including model reduction based on available first‐principle models (e.g., proper orthogonal decomposition), system identification based on input–output data (e.g., subspace identification) that results in an explicitly expressed mathematical model, and neural networks based on input–output data. A representative algorithm from each model approximation method is considered. Two processes that are very different in dynamic nature and complexity were selected as benchmark processes for computational complexity and economic performance comparison, namely, an alkylation process and a wastewater treatment plant. The strengths and drawbacks of each method are summarized according to the simulation results, with future research direction regarding control‐oriented model approximation proposed at the end.
Association of early repolarization pattern and ventricular fibrillation in patients with vasospastic angina: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Guangqiang , Zhao Na , Zhong Shu , Wang Hua
Published: March 2022

Background

An early repolarization (ER) pattern is a risk factor for ventricular fibrillation (VF) in patients with vasospastic angina (VSA) caused by a coronary artery spasm. However, its detailed characteristics and prognostic value for VF remain unclear. Thus, we investigated the relationship between ER and VF in patients with VSA.

Hypothesis

The ER pattern is associated with VF in patients with VSA.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases for eligible studies published between January 2011 and December 2020; 8 studies with 1761 patients were included in the final analysis.

Results

The ER pattern significantly predicted adverse cardiovascular events (ACEs) and VF (odds ratio [OR] = 5.13, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 3.16–8.35, p < .00001 and OR = 5.20, 95% CI: 3.05–8.87, p < .00001). The presence of ER in the inferior leads increased the VF risk (OR = 7.80, 95% CI: 4.04–15.05, p < .00001), regardless of the J‐point morphology or type of ST‐segment elevation in the ER pattern. A horizontal/descending ST‐segment elevation was significantly associated with VF in patients with or without an ER pattern during a coronary spasm (OR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.07–4.88, p = .03). However, obstructive coronary artery disease was unrelated to the ER pattern (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.27–2.53, p = .73).

Conclusions

An ER pattern is significantly associated with an increased risk of ACE in patients with VSA. An inferior ER pattern with horizontal/descending ST‐segment elevation confers the highest risk for VF during VSA onset. Nevertheless, the ER pattern is not associated with obstructive coronary artery disease.
Sustainable development—Direct and indirect effects between economic, social, and environmental dimensions in business practices
Authors: Andersson Svante , Svensson Göran , Molina‐Castillo Francisco‐Jose , Otero‐Neira Carmen , Lindgren John , Karlsson Niklas P. E. , Laurell Hélène
Published: March 2022

This study investigates the direct and indirect effects between economic, social and environmental dimensions of triple bottom line (TBL), based on a questionnaire survey and cross‐industrial sample in Sweden. The analyses apply partial least squares structural equation models. The study tests the direct and indirect effects between economic, social, and environmental dimensions of TBL and offers additional validity and reliability to establish the measurement and structural properties between the dimensions of TBL. The study extends earlier findings by explicitly discussing how the three TBL goals relate to each other and shows how the dynamic capability view can be a fruitful lens to investigate business sustainability. Some differences in sustainability business practices caused by differences in national cultures are identified. Sustainability reporting in a strong uncertainty avoidance (UA) country happens in accordance with regulations and laws. Conversely, for weak UA cultures, reporting and compliance with regulations are ways to build trust with stakeholders. That is, reporting is more transparent and widespread in weak UA countries. The study also provides a foundation to guide companies' actions of business sustainability. The model shows companies how to establish the order of actions undertaken across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. In addition, it clarifies that the economic dimension exerts an effect on the social and environmental dimensions. The model also grasps long‐term economic performance by including competitiveness and brand value, while earlier research mainly has focused on more short‐term measurements as return on assets.
Investment efficiency and environmental, social, and governance reporting: Perspective from corporate integration management
Authors: Harymawan Iman , Nasih Mohammad , Agustia Dian , Putra Fajar Kristanto Gautama , Djajadikerta Hadrian Geri
Published: March 2022

This article examines the relationship between investment efficiency (INVEFF) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting. We posit corporate integration management (CIM), which is reflected by the level of INVEFF, is a crucial driver for the better quality of ESG reporting. But there is a second possibility which ESG reporting is viewed as a different firm's burden, and therefore, it is a form of inefficiency. We test our hypothesis in Indonesia's unique setting of nonfinancial listed firms from 2010 to 2018. We find that INVEFF is confirmed as one of the critical drivers for enhancing ESG reporting quality. Our result is consistent during several robustness checks. Furthermore, we document that a positive relationship between INVEFF and ESG reporting is not incurred in all circumstances. Our study is one of few studies that focus on quantitative measurement of CIM and examines its relationship with ESG reporting.
Emcoating Architecture Construction via CO2/H2Coupling Treatment Doubles Reversible Capacity of NbO2/C Anode
Authors: Ji Qing , Chen Xiaoping , Cheng Ya‐Jun , Dong Qingyu , Shen Yanbin , Yang Zhaohui , Hu Binjie , Xia Yonggao
Published: March 2022

As a promising alternative as lithium‐ion anode, niobium dioxide appeals to researchers due to high theoretical capacity and good electron conductivity. However, rarely work about NbO2based high performance anode is reported. Here, NbO2nanoparticles emcoated in continuous carbon matrix is constructed through CO2/H2coupling treatment. CO2activation introduces unique carbon emcoating structure, which builds interconnected electron conductive network with low carbon content. Furthermore, crystallographic phase of NbO2is enhanced during H2treatment, which increases the lithium storage ability. Electrochemical performance of NbO2anodes is significantly improved based on the carbon emcoating structure. A high reversible capacity of 391 mAh g−1is retained after 350 cycles at 0.2 C. Additionally, at a current density of 1 A g−1, the reversible capacity reaches 139 mAh g−1. Compared with conventional NbO2/C nanohybrids, the lithium diffusion coefficient of carbon‐emcoated sample shows improvement of three orders of magnitude. Moreover, the in situ XRD investigation shows a reversible lithium insertion behaviour with a limited volume change.
Prediction of standard cell types and functional markers from textual descriptions of flow cytometry gating definitions using machine learning
Authors: Rodriguez‐Esteban Raul , Duarte José , Teixeira Priscila C. , Richard Fabien , Koltsova Svetlana , So W. Venus
Published: March 2022

Background

A key step in clinical flow cytometry data analysis is gating, which involves the identification of cell populations. The process of gating produces a set of reportable results, which are typically described by gating definitions. The non‐standardized, non‐interpreted nature of gating definitions represents a hurdle for data interpretation and data sharing across and within organizations. Interpreting and standardizing gating definitions for subsequent analysis of gating results requires a curation effort from experts. Machine learning approaches have the potential to help in this process by predicting expert annotations associated with gating definitions.

Methods

We created a gold‐standard dataset by manually annotating thousands of gating definitions with cell type and functional marker annotations. We used this dataset to train and test a machine learning pipeline able to predict standard cell types and functional marker genes associated with gating definitions.

Results

The machine learning pipeline predicted annotations with high accuracy for both cell types and functional marker genes. Accuracy was lower for gating definitions from assays belonging to laboratories from which limited or no prior data was available in the training. Manual error review ensured that resulting predicted annotations could be reused subsequently as additional gold‐standard training data.

Conclusions

Machine learning methods are able to consistently predict annotations associated with gating definitions from flow cytometry assays. However, a hybrid automatic and manual annotation workflow would be recommended to achieve optimal results.
Energy efficient and effective node deployment for wireless sensor network
Authors: Kumar Gupta Sumit , Kumar Sachin , Tyagi Sudhanshu
Published: March 2022

The development of tiny sensor nodes (SNs) has incarnated numerous applications in the field of wireless sensor networks (WSN). These devices became much popular in multidisciplinary research area such as the internet of things (IoT). However, the use of these devices has been restricted due to some constraints like SN energy, data aggregation, quality of service (QoS), reliability, SN deployment, scalability, energy consumption, and many more. Among all these constraints, we focus on SN energy, SN deployment, and energy consumption of the network. Because if the consumption of SN energy is less, network lifetime automatically increases. So, we propose active–passive node topology on deployed SNs which enhance the network lifetime. With the help of the proposed mechanism, the lifetime and stability have increased by 60% and 3%, respectively, as compared with directed diffusion protocol in Experiment 1. In another experiment, the lifetime has increased by 67%, 64%, and 62% as compared with LEACH, NEAP, and DREEP, respectively, in homogeneous environment. The proposed scheme also performed significant improvement in heterogeneous environment. The simulation performance shows that the proposed protocol increases the network lifetime and stability of the network.
FishSizer: Software solution for efficiently measuring larval fish size
Authors: Rasmussen Jeppe Have , Moyano Marta , Fuiman Lee A. , Oomen Rebekah A.
Published: March 2022

Length and depth of fish larvae are part of the fundamental measurements in many marine ecology studies involving early fish life history. Until now, obtaining these measurements has required intensive manual labor and the risk of inter‐ and intra‐observer variability.

We developed an open‐source software solution to semi‐automate the measurement process and thereby reduce both time consumption and technical variability. Using contrast‐based edge detection, the software segments images of a fish larva into “larva” and “background.” Length and depth are extracted from the “larva” segmentation while taking curvature of the larva into consideration. The graphical user interface optimizes workflow and ease of usage, thereby reducing time consumption for both training and analysis. The software allows for visual verification of all measurements.

A comparison of measurement methods on a set of larva images showed that this software reduces measurement time by 66%–78% relative to commonly used software.

Using this software instead of the commonly used manual approach has the potential to save researchers from many hours of monotonous work. No adjustment was necessary for 89% of the images regarding length (70% for depth). Hence, the only workload on most images was the visual inspection. As the visual inspection and manual dimension extraction works in the same way as currently used software, we expect no loss in accuracy.
Effects of toxic Microcystis aeruginosa on the expression of Hox genes in Daphnia similoides sinensis
Authors: Xu Xiaoxue , Cao Yaqin , Qi Huiying , Deng Daogui , Zhang Ya‐Nan , Wu Jianxun , Peng Shuixiu , Zhou Zhongze
Published: March 2022

Lake eutrophication and cyanobacterial blooms have become worldwide environmental issues. Under cyanobacterial blooms (especially Microcystis), Daphnia spp. can transfer beneficial information to their offspring in order to improve adaptability. Hox genes are important regulatory factors of transcription in metazoans, and are involved in the growth and development of organisms. However, the mechanisms of Microcystis on the expression of Hox genes in Daphnia are unclear. In this study, the effects of Microcystis aeruginosa on Hox gene expression in the mothers and offspring (F1) of two Daphnia similoides sinensis clones were investigated using a mixed diet of M. aeruginosa and Scenedesmus obliquus. Compared with the 100%S food treatment, the survival rates at the end of the experiment of clone 1‐F1 in the food treatments containing M. aeruginosa were significantly lower, but it was significantly higher for clone 2‐F1 in the 20%M + 80%S food treatment. Moreover, the survival rates at the end of the experiment of clone 1‐F1 in the food treatments containing M. aeruginosa were significantly higher than those of their mother. Based on previous transcriptome data, 14 Hox genes of D. similoides sinensis were identified, including Abd‐B, CDX‐1, Dll, HOX‐1, HOX‐2, HOXA1, HOXA2, HOXB3, HOXB3‐2, HOXB7, HOXC4, HOXC7, HOXC8, and HOXD10. The expressions of Abd‐B, HOX‐2, HOXA1, HOXC7, and HOXD10 of clone 2‐mothers in the 40%M + 60%S food treatment were 2.9–22.5 times as high as in the 100%S food treatment, whereas the expressions of CDX‐1, HOX‐1, HOXB3, and HOXD10 of clone 1‐mothers were 4.8–13.1 times at same food level. The expression of HOXA2, HOXC7, HOXC8, and HOXD10 of clone 1‐F1 in the 40%M + 60%S food treatment was 8.2–21.1 times as high as in the 100%S food treatment. However, compared with the 100%S food treatment, the expressions of CDX‐1 in the mothers and F1 of clone 2 and HOXB7 in the mothers of clone 1 in the food treatments containing M. aeruginosa were significantly lower (p < .05). Our results suggest that the offspring (F1) produced by D. similoides sinensis mother pre‐exposed to toxic M. aeruginosa had stronger adaptability to M. aeruginosa than their mothers. Moreover, Hox gene expressions of D. similoides sinensis had obvious differences between clones under stress of toxic M. aeruginosa.
Breeding migrations by bighorn sheep males are driven by mating opportunities
Authors: Lassis Roxane , Festa‐Bianchet Marco , Pelletier Fanie
Published: March 2022

In some species where male mating success largely depends on intrasexual competition, males can adopt migratory or resident strategies to seek breeding opportunities. The resulting mixture of resident and migrant tactics within a population can have important ecological, genetic, and evolutionary consequences for metapopulations. Bighorn sheepOvis canadensismales establish a linear dominance hierarchy that influences their mating tactics. Some males perform breeding migrations during the pre‐rut and rut to seek mating opportunities, but little is known about these seasonal movements. We analyzed presence/absence data for 62 marked bighorn males during six mating seasons (20–32 males/year) in the Sheep River Provincial Park, Alberta, Canada, where hunting was not allowed. On average, about half of males left their natal population to rut elsewhere. The proportion of males leaving (yearly range 15%–69%) increased as the number of resident mature males increased and the populational sex ratio decreased, with fewer females during the pre‐rut. Among those leaving the park, 24% did so in October, while the trophy sheep hunting season was open. Detailed monitoring of breeding migrations in protected populations could inform management strategies to limit evolutionary impacts of hunting, which can alter size‐dependent mortality and create artificial pressures driving changes on heritable traits.
A pipeline for effectively developing highly polymorphic simple sequence repeats markers based on multi‐sample genomic data
Authors: Wang Hui , Gao Shenghan , Liu Yu , Wang Pengcheng , Zhang Zhengwang , Chen De
Published: March 2022

Simple sequence repeats (SSRs) are widely used genetic markers in ecology, evolution, and conservation even in the genomics era, while a general limitation to their application is the difficulty of developing polymorphic SSR markers. Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) offers the opportunity for the rapid development of SSRs; however, previous studies developing SSRs using genomic data from only one individual need redundant experiments to test the polymorphisms of SSRs. In this study, we designed a pipeline for the rapid development of polymorphic SSR markers from multi‐sample genomic data. We used bioinformatic software to genotype multiple individuals using resequencing data, detected highly polymorphic SSRs prior to experimental validation, significantly improved the efficiency and reduced the experimental effort. The pipeline was successfully applied to a globally threatened species, the brown eared‐pheasant (Crossoptilon mantchuricum), which showed very low genomic diversity. The 20 newly developed SSR markers were highly polymorphic, the average number of alleles was much higher than the genomic average. We also evaluated the effect of the number of individuals and sequencing depth on the SSR mining results, and we found that 10 individuals and ~10X sequencing data were enough to obtain a sufficient number of polymorphic SSRs, even for species with low genetic diversity. Furthermore, the genome assembly of NGS data from the optimal number of individuals and sequencing depth can be used as an alternative reference genome if a high‐quality genome is not available. Our pipeline provided a paradigm for the application of NGS technology to mining and developing molecular markers for ecological and evolutionary studies.
Augmented neutralization of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant by boost vaccination and monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Schulz Sebastian R. , Hoffmann Markus , Roth Edith , Pracht Katharina , Burnett Deborah L. , Mazigi Ohan , Schuh Wolfgang , Manger Bernhard , Mielenz Dirk , Goodnow Christopher C. , Christ Daniel , Pöhlmann Stefan , Jäck Hans‐Martin
Published: March 2022

Effective vaccines and monoclonal antibodies have been developed against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). However, the appearance of virus variants with higher transmissibility and pathogenicity is a major concern because of their potential to escape vaccines and clinically approved SARS‐CoV‐2‐ antibodies. Here, we use flow cytometry‐based binding and pseudotyped SARS‐CoV‐2 neutralization assays to determine the efficacy of boost immunization and therapeutic antibodies to neutralize the dominant Omicron variant. We provide compelling evidence that the third vaccination with BNT162b2 increases the amount of neutralizing serum antibodies against Delta and Omicron variants, albeit to a lower degree when compared to the parental Wuhan strain. Therefore, a third vaccination is warranted to increase titers of protective serum antibodies, especially in the case of the Omicron variant. We also found that most clinically approved and otherwise potent therapeutic antibodies against the Delta variant failed to recognize and neutralize the Omicron variant. In contrast, some antibodies under preclinical development potentially neutralized the Omicron variant. Our studies also support using a flow cytometry‐based antibody binding assay to rapidly monitor therapeutic candidates and serum titers against emerging SARS‐CoV‐2 variants.
Development of Noval Electrocatalyst Based on Graphene Supported Palladium‐Cobalt Nanoparticles as Hydrogen Evolution Catalyst for the Cost Effective Production of Hydrogen from Methanol
Authors: Pennada Nagalakshmi , Singh Rajaputra Subhakaran , Kumar Brahman Pradeep
Published: March 2022

Production of hydrogen using conventional water electrolysis is not the convenient and effective way due to slow oxidation evaluation at the anode electrode. Electroreforming of organic substances such as methanol to generate hydrogen has been considered an innovative strategy. Herein, graphene (G) supported Pd3−Co1 (Pd3−Co1/G) catalyst was synthesized and employed as cathode catalyst to facilitate hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in the electrochemical methanol reformation (ECMR) process. The structural characteristics of synthesized Pd3−Co1/G were determined by FE‐SEM, HR‐TEM, EDX, XRD, FT‐IR, UV, XPS, and ICP‐OES techniques. Furthermore, the electrocatalytic behavior of the proposed catalyst was evaluated by CV, LSV and EIS techniques in 0.5 M H2SO4. Electrochemical studies revealed that Pd3−Co1/G exhibited a large electrochemically active surface area (120 m2 g−1), good long‐term stability, low Tafel slope value (46 mV dec−1) and small Rct value (12 Ω). The practical utility of the developed catalyst towards hydrogen production in ECMR cell was tested at various experimental conditions using membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) which were prepared using commercial Pt−Ru/C as anode and Pd3−Co1/G as cathode electrocatalysts respectively. The synthesized Pd3−Co1/G electrocatalyst exhibited superior cell performance for 50 h at 60 °C cell temperature with a cell voltage and current density of 0.58 V and 150 mA cm−2, respectively. The improvement in electrocatalytic activity could be attributed to alloying Pd with Co and the use of G as carbon support, which in turn enhanced the HER activity of Pd. Hence, the prepared Pd3−Co1/G can be used as an alternative to cathode electrocatalyst for HER in ECMR cells.
Hepatic inflammation elicits production of proinflammatory netrin‐1 through exclusive activation of translation
Authors: Barnault Romain , Verzeroli Claire , Fournier Carole , Michelet Maud , Redavid Anna Rita , Chicherova Ievgeniia , Plissonnier Marie‐Laure , Adrait Annie , Khomich Olga , Chapus Fleur , Richaud Mathieu , Hervieu Maëva , Reiterer Veronika , Centonze Federica Grazia , Lucifora Julie , Bartosch Birke , Rivoire Michel , Farhan Hesso , Couté Yohann , Mirakaj Valbona , Decaens Thomas , Mehlen Patrick , Gibert Benjamin , Zoulim Fabien , Parent Romain
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

Netrin‐1 displays protumoral properties, though the pathological contexts and processes involved in its induction remain understudied. The liver is a major model of inflammation‐associated cancer development, leading to HCC.

Approach and Results

A panel of cell biology and biochemistry approaches (reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, reporter assays, run‐on, polysome fractionation, cross linking immunoprecipitation, filter binding assay, subcellular fractionation, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture) on in vitro–grown primary hepatocytes, human liver cell lines, mouse samples and clinical samples was used. We identify netrin‐1 as a hepatic inflammation‐inducible factor and decipher its mode of activation through an exhaustive eliminative approach. We show that netrin‐1 up‐regulation relies on a hitherto unknown mode of induction, namely its exclusive translational activation. This process includes the transfer of NTN1 (netrin‐1) mRNA to the endoplasmic reticulum and the direct interaction between the Staufen‐1 protein and this transcript as well as netrin‐1 mobilization from its cell‐bound form. Finally, we explore the impact of a phase 2 clinical trial‐tested humanized anti‐netrin‐1 antibody (NP137) in two distinct, toll‐like receptor (TLR) 2/TLR3/TLR6‐dependent, hepatic inflammatory mouse settings. We observe a clear anti‐inflammatory activity indicating the proinflammatory impact of netrin‐1 on several chemokines and Ly6C+ macrophages.

Conclusions

These results identify netrin‐1 as an inflammation‐inducible factor in the liver through an atypical mechanism as well as its contribution to hepatic inflammation.
Media and social factors influencing stigma towards eczema patients: A survey study in Singapore
Authors: Jiang Shaohai , Chia Christopher
Published: March 2022

Issue addressed

Eczema is a common skin health issue in Singapore. A salient challenge eczema patients are facing is the stigma towards them, which has been relatively unacknowledged. It is critical to reducing stigma towards eczema patients, and an essential step is to identify factors influencing stigmatising behaviour.

Methods

With a general basis of the Integrative Model of Behavioral Prediction, we conducted a cross‐sectional online survey (N = 293) in the context of Singapore. The sample was recruited via the online panel of a survey company, Rakuten Insights. Our sample's age and education level generally fit with the population in Singapore.

Results

Media exposure to eczema content did not influence stigmatising behaviour either directly or indirectly. However, personal connection with eczema patients reduced stigma indirectly, completely mediated by stigmatising attitude towards eczema patients and health literacy. That is, personal connection with eczema patients had a negative relationship with stigmatising attitude, which was positively associated with the intention of and actual stigmatising behaviour. However, personal connection increased health literacy, which in turn reduced stigmatising intention and behaviour.

Conclusions

We call for more future initiatives to fight against health stigma. Health promotion can take advantage of eczema patients’ social network to educate the general public about the eczema issue to lower stigma. Public policy responses to prevent discrimination on the basis of skin health are also needed. Media organisations should use news media and social media to speak out against stigma towards eczema patients, and avoid using stigmatising language.
Predictors of social intelligence, empathy, and self‐efficacy among sexual offenders
Authors: Cartwright Angie D. , Minton Casey A. Barrio , Reyes Ana G. , Abernathy Meagan , Groves Kerin K.
Published: March 2022

The authors aimed to assess the predictive nature of social intelligence, empathy, general self‐efficacy (GSE), time in counseling, and risk‐level in a sample of sexual offenders receiving counseling services (n = 151). No mean differences in variables were observed on the basis of victim type, offense type, or risk level. Linear regression models indicated that study variables accounted for 22% of the variance in social intelligence and 13% of the variance in empathy. In both models, GSE emerged as the strongest predictor after accounting for other variables.
Antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory activities of chitosan/copper complex coating on medical catheters: In vitro and in vivo
Authors: Gu Guisong , Erişen Deniz Eren , Yang Ke , Zhang Bingchun , Shen Minggang , Zou Jingyu , Qi Xun , Chen Shanshan , Xu Xiaohe
Published: March 2022

Copper ions (Cu) grafted chitosan coating was prepared using the pneumatic spraying method on the silicone rubber surface. Coating's surface properties, morphology, composition, Cu releasing behavior, antibacterial, and anti‐inflammatory activities are investigated and discussed. Surface properties, composition, and morphology were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and contact angle measurements. The antibacterial activity has been tested with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus suspensions in vitro. Besides, the morphology of the biofilm was inspected with a field emission SEM. To evaluate the anti‐inflammatory activity and biosafety of the coating in vivo, the optimized coating samples and control groups were implanted subcutaneously into the back of mice. The bacterial environment model was established by injection of the bacterial suspension. The morphology and bacterial adhered on the surface of catheters and the surrounding tissues were analyzed after 5 days of implantation. As in vitro results, the number of adhered bacterial on the surface of the silicon rubber surface was decreased, and the anti‐inflammatory rate was increased by the intensify of the Cu content in chitosan coating. As for in vivo results, after 5 days of implantation, there was no evident inflammation in the surrounding tissues of all catheters in all without the S. aureus injected group. In the injected chitosan/Cu coated group; the inflammation, the number of the adhered bacteria were observed less than other injected samples without Cu; no inflammation were noticeable. Results indicate that the Cu‐modified chitosan coating can confer excellent antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory activity as applied on medical catheters.
Influence of Metastatic Bone Lesion Type and Tumor Origin on Human Vertebral Bone Architecture, Matrix Quality, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Bailey Stacyann , Stadelmann Marc A. , Zysset Philippe K. , Vashishth Deepak , Alkalay Ron N.
Published: March 2022

Metastatic spine disease is incurable, causing increased vertebral fracture risk and severe patient morbidity. Here, we demonstrate that osteolytic, osteosclerotic, and mixed bone metastasis uniquely modify human vertebral bone architecture and quality, affecting vertebral strength and stiffness. Multivariable analysis showed bone metastasis type dominates vertebral strength and stiffness changes, with neither age nor gender having an independent effect. In osteolytic vertebrae, bone architecture rarefaction, lower tissue mineral content and connectivity, and accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) affected low vertebral strength and stiffness. In osteosclerotic vertebrae, high trabecular number and thickness but low AGEs, suggesting a high degree of bone remodeling, yielded high vertebral strength. Our study found that bone metastasis from prostate and breast primary cancers differentially impacted the osteosclerotic bone microenvironment, yielding altered bone architecture and accumulation of AGEs. These findings indicate that therapeutic approaches should target the restoration of bone structural integrity. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Natural quinones induce ROS‐mediated apoptosis and inhibit cell migration in PANC‐1 human pancreatic cancer cell line
Authors: Narayanan Prasad , Farghadani Reyhaneh , Nyamathulla Shaik , Rajarajeswaran Jayakumar , Thirugnanasampandan R. , Bhuwaneswari Gunasekaran
Published: March 2022

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most devastating of all malignancies with poor prognosis and high mortality rates worldwide. Thymoquinone, plumbagin and juglone, which are naturally occurring quinones, have been reported for their promising anticancer effect on different cancer cells. However, their mechanism of action and antimetastatic effects are largely unknown against the human pancreatic cancer cell line (PANC‐1). In this study, the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) cytotoxicity assay revealed a dose‐dependent decrease of viability in quinone‐treated PANC‐1 cells. In addition, the assessment of changes in cells has demonstrated an occurrence of typical apoptotic morphology in treated PANC‐1 cells compared with control. Besides this, the apoptosis induction was further quantitatively confirmed through flow cytometry analysis. Furthermore, thymoquinone, plumbagin and juglone were evaluated for their influence on reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation through 2,7‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) staining and they dramatically increased the intracellular ROS level in treated PANC‐1 cells, suggesting the critical role of ROS in their apoptosis induction. This study also demonstrated the wound healing potential of these compounds and inhibited PANC‐1 cell migration in a time‐dependent manner compared with control. This inhibition was correlated with reduced expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) in juglone‐treated cells detected through gelatin zymography. In conclusion, thymoquinone, plumbagin and juglone significantly inhibited cell growth and induced ROS‐mediated apoptosis in PANC‐1 cells. In addition, they could be potent antimetastatic agents due to their anti‐migratory effect against PANC‐1 human pancreatic cancer cells.
Long noncoding RNA LBX2‐AS1 promotes colorectal cancer progression via binding with PTBP1 and stabilizing KAT2A expression
Authors: Zhao Andong , Wang Yu , Lin Fuliang , Bai Keyun , Gu Chao
Published: March 2022

The long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been investigated in colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study is to identify the biological functions of LBX2‐AS1 in CRC. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to examine the expression of LBX2‐AS1 in CRC cells. Cell counting kit‐8 and colony formation assays were performed to examine cell proliferation. Wound healing and transwell invasion assays were performed to examine the cell migration and invasion. The interaction between PTBP1 and LBX2‐AS1 or KAT2A was confirmed by RNA immunoprecipitation. The KAT2A messenger RNA (mRNA) stability was probed using the transcriptional inhibitor Actinomycin D. LBX2‐AS1 was significantly increased in CRC tissues and cells. Knockdown of LBX2‐AS1 inhibited CRC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The notch signaling pathway was activated by LBX2‐AS1. LBX2‐AS1 enhanced the mRNA stability of the histone acetyltransferase KAT2A by interacting with RNA‐binding protein PTBP1. LBX2‐AS1 acted as an oncogene in CRC.
A nonrandomized phase I and biomarker trial of regorafenib in advanced myeloid malignancies
Authors: How Joan , Ren Siyang , Lombardi‐Story Jennifer , Bergeron Meghan , Foster Julia , Amrein Phillip C. , Brunner Andrew M. , Fathi Amir T. , Hock Hanno , Khachatryan Anna , Kikuchi Hiroto , Ng Mei Rosa , Moran Jenna , Narayan Rupa , Neuberg Donna , Ramos Aura , Som Tina , Vartanian Meghan , Chen Yi‐Bin , Duda Dan G. , Hobbs Gabriela S.
Published: March 2022

We conducted a single‐center, open‐label, dose escalation, and expansion phase I trial of the antiangiogenic multikinase inhibitor regorafenib in patients with advanced myeloid neoplasms. We enrolled 16 patients with relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML), myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). A 3 + 3 dose escalation design was used with two planned dose levels (120 or 160 mg daily) and one de‐escalation level (80 mg daily). An additional 10 patients were treated on an expansion cohort. The recommended phase two dose of regorafenib was 160 mg daily, with no dose‐limiting toxicities. The best overall disease response by International Working Group criteria included one partial and stable disease in 11 patients. Tissue studies indicated no change in Ras/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway activation in responders. Pharmacodynamic changes in plasma VEGF, PlGF, and sVEGFR2 were detected during treatment. Baseline proinflammatory and angiogenic cytokine levels were not associated with clinical response. Single‐agent regorafenib demonstrated an acceptable safety profile in relapsed/refractory myeloid malignancy patients. Most patients achieved stable disease, with modest improvements in cell counts in some MDS patients. Biomarker studies were consistent with on‐target effects of regorafenib on angiogenesis. Future studies should investigate the role of regorafenib in combination therapy approaches.
The role of status consumption and brand equity: A comparative study of the marketing of Indian luxury brands by traditional and social‐media
Authors: Husain Rehan , Ahmad Amna , Khan Bilal Mustafa
Published: March 2022

This research is a comparative study of the marketing of luxury brands by social media and by traditional media. It examines the influence of status consumption and brand equity and shows how they impact on the purchase intention of luxury brands. The research is based on the Indian luxury brand market, a sector that has yet to be studied in any depth. It uses a questionnaire with a convenience sampling strategy that targeted followers of prominent luxury brands in four of India's largest metropolitan cities; 453 usable responses were obtained. The research provides both a model and identifies a number of managerial and theoretical implications. The results show that status consumption and brand equity positively affect the purchase intention, with this being more significant in social media marketing activity than in traditional marketing activities. The research indicates that it would be wise to use a blend of both social and traditional media for marketing luxury brands. For social media campaigns, luxury brand managers should focus on status consumption and brand equity, which should lead to increased intention to purchase.
Urban expansion and infrastructure development reduce habitat suitability for Asian elephants in southwestern China
Authors: Chen Ying , Atzeni Luciano , Gibson Luke , Sun Yakuan , Yang Zicheng , Shi Kun , Dudgeon David
Published: March 2022

Conservation interventions for threatened species must be based on accurate assessments of the effects of anthropogenic pressures on habitat suitability. We used multiscale multivariable species‐distribution modeling to evaluate habitat suitability for an Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) population in Shangyong Reserve, Yunnan Province, southwestern China. We investigated the scales at which measurements of environmental variables best reflected elephant habitat selection, and examined whether these responses changed over 2 decades (2000–2010 and 2011–2020) in response to 20 environmental variables, including 14 variables reflecting landscape fragmentation, the extent of buildings, and transport infrastructure. Elephant presence was sensitive to the scale of each variable, and the effects differed among variables within and between decades. More than half of the variables influenced elephant presence at coarse scales of 8 or 16 km, including 12 variables reflecting anthropogenic pressures in 2000–2010 and 10 in 2011–2020. Overall, multivariate models with variables at their optimal scales had higher discrimination than models at uniformly fine scales of 1 km or 2 km. The extent of suitable habitat for elephants declined by 24% over 2 decades. Less than half of elephant habitat was located within Shangyong Reserve (49% in 2000–2010, 40% in 2011–2020), indicating the importance of managing suitable habitat beyond reserve boundaries. Roads and buildings reduced the probability of elephant presence, with effects that extended beyond their immediate footprint. We advocate that infrastructure be planned with buffers, ≥8 km wide, between roads or buildings and core elephant habitat. Multiscale multivariable species‐distribution modeling should be employed to ensure that all suitable habitat for the remaining fragmented elephant populations in Yunnan is identified, mapped, and protected.
Unilateral Cordotomy: A Systematic Review of Efficacy and Outcomes
Authors: Talmor Guy , Tseng Christopher , Nguyen Brandon , Badash Ido , Lovinescu Corina Din , Benson Brian , Kaye Rachel
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Glottic obstruction may arise secondary to bilateral vocal fold immobility (BVFI). Treatment options include a tracheostomy to bypass the site of obstruction as well as unilateral transverse cordotomy to alleviate the obstruction. The objective of this review is to determine the efficacy, adverse event profile, and long‐term outcomes, including the need for tracheostomy, in patients undergoing unilateral cordotomy.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Systems for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed for this systematic review. A literature search of unilateral cordotomy was performed by searching PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase. Articles presenting cases of BVFI treated with unilateral cordotomy were included. Review articles, animal studies, non‐English‐language articles, and abstracts were excluded. Articles presenting cases of bilateral cordotomy or cordotomy with arytenoidectomy were excluded.

Results

We identified 14 studies and 291 patients undergoing unilateral cordotomy. Sixty‐eight patients had a prior tracheostomy in place at the time of cordotomy. The most common post‐operative complication was granulation tissue formation (n = 39). Thirty‐one patients developed glottic edema with subsequent dyspnea. Three patients developed scarring of the primary cordotomy site with the return to an obstructed airway. Nine patients required a post‐cordotomy tracheostomy due to these complications. Five patients required a long‐term tracheostomy and were unable to be decannulated.

Conclusion

Unilateral cordotomy is an effective treatment for glottic obstruction with high post‐operative decannulation rates. Adverse events including worsening glottic obstruction are uncommon, although edema and granulation tissue may develop in the post‐operative period and necessitate close post‐operative monitoring. Laryngoscope, 133:6–14, 2023
A Comprehensive Assessment of Blood Transfusions in Elective Thyroidectomy Based on 180,483 Patients
Authors: Waqar Usama , Tariq Javeria , Chaudhry Ahmad Areeb , Iftikhar Haissan , Zafar Hasnain , Abbas Syed Akbar
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To assess the incidence, risk factors, and complications of blood transfusions (BTs) in elective thyroidectomy patients.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Adult patients who underwent elective thyroidectomy from 2005 to 2019 were divided into two cohorts based on whether they received BT or not. Multivariable binary logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors of BT and its impact on postoperative complications.

Results

Of 180,483 patients, 0.13% received BT. Risk factors for BT included underweight body mass index (BMI) (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3.179, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.444–6.996), bleeding disorders (OR 2.121, 95% CI 1.149–3.913), anemia (OR 4.730, 95% CI 3.472–6.445), preoperative transfusion (OR 7.230, 95% CI 1.454–35.946), American Society of Anesthesiology physical statuses 3–5 (OR 3.103, 95% CI 2.143–4.492), operative time >150 min (OR 4.390, 95% CI 1.996–9.654), and inpatient thyroidectomy (OR 5.791, 95% CI 3.816–8.787). In addition, transfusion was independently associated with any postoperative complication, non‐infectious, cardiac, pulmonary, renal, vascular, or infectious complications, surgical site infection, sepsis, septic shock, wound disruption, pneumonia, unplanned reoperation, prolonged length of stay, and mortality.

Conclusion

Recognition of risk factors of BT is imperative to identify at‐risk patients and reduce transfusions by controlling modifiable risk factors such as anemia, operative time, and BMI. In cases where transfusions are still indicated, surgeons should optimize care to prevent or adequately manage transfusion‐associated complications.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:2078–2084, 2022
Microbial uptake dynamics of choline and glycine betaine in coastal seawater
Authors: Mausz Michaela A. , Airs Ruth L. , Dixon Joanna L. , Widdicombe Claire E. , Tarran Glen A. , Polimene Luca , Dashfield Sarah , Beale Rachael , Scanlan David J. , Chen Yin
Published: March 2022

Choline and glycine betaine (GBT) are utilized as osmolytes to counteract osmotic stress, but also constitute important nutrient sources for many marine microbes. Bacterial catabolism of these substrates can then lead to the production of climate active trace gases such as methylamine and methane. Using radiotracers, we investigated prokaryotic choline/GBT uptake and determined biotic and abiotic factors driving these processes in the Western English Channel, UK. Kinetic uptake parameters indicated high affinity (nM range) for both osmolytes and showed a seasonal pattern for choline uptake. Generalized linear modeling of uptake parameters suggested a significant influence of sea surface temperature and salinity on prokaryotic uptake of both osmolytes. The presence of diatoms significantly influenced prokaryotic choline/GBT uptake dynamics. Choline uptake was further related to the occurrence of Phaeocystis spp., which were highly abundant in the phytoplankton community during spring, and dinoflagellates abundance during summer. While Rhodobacteraceae were the most important bacterial drivers for prokaryotic choline uptake, prokaryotic GBT uptake was associated with various groups such as SAR11 (Pelagibacterales) and Gammaproteobacteria, suggesting a wider capacity for GBT catabolism than previously recognized. Furthermore, using a newly developed approach we determined the first available data for dissolved GBT concentrations in seawater and found both osmolytes to be at the sub‐nanomolar range. Together, this study improves our understanding of the biogeochemical cycling of these environmentally important osmolytes and highlights how their cycles may be affected by a changing climate.