bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogeography and predictors of wildlife killed on roads at peninsular Florida State Parks
Authors: Jenkins David G. , Ohyama Leo , López‐Borghesi Federico , Hart Jacob D. , Bogotá‐Gregory Juan D. , Rautsaw Rhett M. , Roldán Vanessa Correa , Guilfoyle Kevin , Jarvis Anik , Loch Jennifer , Mercier Kathryn , Myers Olivia , Shaw Rachel , Volk Daniel , Bard Alice M.
Published: June 2021

Wildlife‐vehicle collisions (WVCs) are a major source of wildlife mortality and should affect regional wildlife diversity and abundance, yet most WVC studies are locally scaled. Here, we evaluated biogeographic diversity (i.e., species richness, effective diversity) and abundance of WVCs at state parks across the Florida peninsula to answer two questions aimed to help inform wildlife conservation efforts: which parks have greatest WVC diversity, and why? We processed and compiled 9,254 WVC survey records collected by Florida State Parks personnel at 42 parks during a decade (2005–2015). Data for birds (138 species), mammals (35 species), reptiles (64 species), and all taxa combined were analyzed for patterns among parks (for the first question) and for biogeographic, climatic, ecoregion, and anthropogenic predictors of those patterns (for the second). Predictors represented nonexclusive alternative a priori hypotheses and were evaluated by model comparison. Parks differed widely in WVC diversity and abundance; we identify “hot spot” parks where management may most effectively reduce WVCs. Biogeographic and anthropogenic hypotheses were supported, but climatic and ecoregion hypotheses were not. Models for overall diversity fit data better (R2s > 0.50) than did models for specific taxa (e.g., birds). Larger parks closer to Florida's highly populated Atlantic Coast and with greater park attendance and perhaps faster speeds on adjacent roads have more WVC diversity and numbers. Of these predictors, attendance and speed limits are manageable. Traffic management in and near‐identified “hot spot” parks in Florida can most effectively reduce WVC effects on wildlife populations and diversity amidst a growing human population.
Legacy of pre‐eruption vegetation affects ground‐dwelling arthropod communities after different types of volcanic disturbance
Authors: Iida Kyohei , Hayasaka Daisuke , Suzuki Yuya , Uchida Taizo , Sawahata Takuo , Hashimoto Koya
Published: June 2021

Volcanic eruptions are one of the largest natural disturbances and are followed by the establishment of novel plant and animal communities in terrestrial ecosystems. However, the role of pre‐eruption vegetation in the establishment of arthropod communities after volcanic disturbances is currently unknown. Here, we asked whether the legacy of pre‐eruption vegetation mediates the community structure of ground‐dwelling arthropods after volcanic disturbances. The 2015 eruption in Kuchinoerabu‐jima Island, southwest Japan, caused two types of disturbances [a pyroclastic flow and a lahar (i.e., mudflow)] in three types of forests (broad‐leaved, black pine, and cedar). We hypothesized that pre‐eruption vegetation would influence the community structure of ground‐dwelling arthropods after the disturbance, and we expected that these effects from vegetation would be more prevalent for the less severe disturbances. The total abundance of ground‐dwelling arthropods decreased more in the lahar than the pyroclastic flow, and arthropod species composition showed a greater change after the lahar. These findings suggest that the lahar disturbance was more severe than the pyroclastic disturbance. Contrary to expectations, the difference in the arthropod species composition among the vegetation types was greatest after the lahar. After the pyroclastic flow, leaf litter remained to some degree with all the vegetation types. After the lahar disturbance, however, although the litter in the cedar forests remained, the litter disappeared completely from broad‐leaved and black pine forests. The disappearance of litter from these two forest types after the lahar may be responsible for the greater difference in arthropod species composition among the vegetation types. This study shows that the legacy effects of pre‐eruption vegetation on terrestrial arthropod communities after volcanic disturbance were different depending on the type of disturbance. Focusing on the role of pre‐eruption biotic factors would contribute to a better understanding of the recovery processes of terrestrial ecosystems after large natural disturbances.
Considering Pleistocene North American wolves and coyotes in the eastern Canis origin story
Authors: Wilson Paul J. , Rutledge Linda Y.
Published: June 2021

The evolutionary origins and hybridization patterns of Canis species in North America have been hotly debated for the past 30 years. Disentangling ancestry and timing of hybridization in Great Lakes wolves, eastern Canadian wolves, red wolves, and eastern coyotes are most often partitioned into a 2‐species model that assigns all ancestry to gray wolves and/or coyotes, and a 3‐species model that includes a third, North American evolved eastern wolf genome. The proposed models address recent or sometimes late Holocene hybridization events but have largely ignored potential Pleistocene era progenitors and opportunities for hybridization that may have impacted the current mixed genomes in eastern Canada and the United States. Here, we re‐analyze contemporary and ancient mitochondrial DNA genomes with Bayesian phylogenetic analyses to more accurately estimate divergence dates among lineages. We combine that with a review of the literature on Late Pleistocene Canis distributions to: (a) identify potential Pleistocene progenitors to southern North American gray wolves and eastern wolves; and (b) illuminate opportunities for ancient hybridization events. Specifically, we propose that Beringian gray wolves (C. lupus) and extinct large wolf‐like coyotes (C. latrans orcutti) are likely progenitors to Mexican and Plains gray wolves and eastern wolves, respectively, and may represent a potentially unrecognized source of introgressed genomic variation within contemporary Canis genomes. These events speak to the potential origins of contemporary genomes and provide a new perspective on Canis ancestry, but do not negate current conservation priorities of dwindling wolf populations with unique genomic signatures and key ecologically critical roles.
Impact of Olive Harvesting Date on Virgin Olive Oil Volatile Composition in Four Spanish Varieties
Authors: Caporaso Nicola , Genovese Alessandro , Pérez‐Jiménez Maria Angeles , Olivero‐David Raul , Sacchi Raffaele
Published: June 2021

The unique sensory characteristics of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) depend upon its volatile composition. This work investigates the impact of olive fruit harvesting time and growing location on the volatile composition of the obtained EVOO, on four typical Spanish olive varieties (Cornicabra, Picual, Castellana, Manzanilla Cacereña). Several growing locations within the Madrid region (Spain) are studied to assess the natural variability attributed to the environmental factors. Aroma compounds are analyzed by solid‐phase microextraction coupled with gas‐chromatography and mass spectrometry, and sensory analysis. A considerable different behavior is observed depending on the olive variety and ripening stage. Statistically significant differences are obtained for volatile compounds biosynthesized from the lipoxygenase pathway and other fatty acid metabolism routes, which results in significant differences in their aroma profiles.

Practical applications: These results have practical applicability for the olive oil industry and regulatory bodies. For example, for protected designation of origin EVOOs the aroma profile needs to be consistent over different production lots. The outcome of this research is of interest to the olive oil industry to get a better insight into the expected variability and interactions among cultivars, small pedoclimatic differences within the same broader area, and the harvesting date on the sensory and volatile profile of the resulting EVOO.
syn‐Selective Michael Reaction of α‐Branched Aryl Acetaldehydes with Nitroolefins Promoted by Squaric Amino Acid Derived Bifunctional Brønsted Bases
Authors: García‐Urricelqui Ane , de Cózar Abel , Campano Teresa E. , Mielgo Antonia , Palomo Claudio
Published: June 2021

Here we describe a direct access to 2,2,3‐trisubstituted syn γ‐nitroaldehydes by addition of α‐branched aryl acetaldehydes to nitroolefins promoted by a cinchona based squaric acid‐derived amino acid peptide. Different α‐methyl arylacetaldehydes react with β‐aromatic and β‐alkyl nitroolefins to afford the Michael adducts in high enantioselectivity and syn‐selectivity. NMR experiments and DFT calculations predict the reaction to occur through the intermediacy of E‐enolate. The interaction between the substrates and the catalyst follows Pápai's model, wherein an intramolecular H‐bond interaction in the catalyst between the NH group of one of the tert‐leucines and the squaramide oxygen seems to be key for discrimination of the corresponding reaction transition states.
Copper‐Catalyzed C−P Cross‐Coupling of (Cyclo)alkenyl/Aryl Bromides and Secondary Phosphine Oxides with in situ Halogen Exchange
Authors: Woźnicki Paweł , Stankevič Marek
Published: June 2021

An efficient protocol for concurrent tandem halogen exchange/C−P cross‐coupling of cycloalkenyl bromides and secondary phosphine oxides has been developed. The catalytic system is based on cheap and air‐stable copper(I) iodide as the precatalyst, commercially available N,N’‐dimethylethylenediamine as the ligand, and Cs2CO3 or K2CO3 as the base. The use of sodium iodide as an additive reduces the excessive use of organic bromides to near‐stoichiometric by promoting the in situ transformation to the corresponding iodides. Diarylphosphine oxides undergo cycloalkenylation with 35–99 % yields and dicyclohexylphosphine oxide with 30–53 % yields. In the case of acyclic alkenyl bromides the cross‐coupling products undergo conjugate addition of diphenylphosphine oxide and satisfying yields are observed only for internal olefins. In the case of aryl bromides satisfying yields (43–72 %) are observed only for sterically unhindered arenes or arenes possessing an ortho‐directing group. Cycloalkenylphosphine oxides prepared in the cross‐coupling reaction undergo base‐catalyzed and base‐promoted conjugate addition to give bis(phosphinoyl)cycloalkanes.
Expanding Horizons of Metal Oxide‐based Chemical and Electrochemical Sensors
Authors: Shalini Devi K. S. , Anantharamakrishnan Aadhav , Maheswari Krishnan Uma
Published: June 2021

Metal‐oxide (MOx) are widely used in electrical/electrochemical sensors owing to their quick‐response ability, High surface‐to‐volume ratio, matching lateral‐dimensions with surface‐charge zone and modifiable with dopants significantly enhances their sensing performance. Typically, MOx‐based sensors are used in gaseous‐analytes for monitoring environmental‐pollutants and gas‐leakage. Tuning the properties of nanostructured‐metal‐oxides advanced their applications beyond environmental‐monitoring. This review focuses on the emerging‐dimensions of MOx‐based sensors in hazard‐surveillance and risk‐investigation like in deployment to detect fire‐hazards, chemical‐warfare agents, oil‐spills and explosives. Recent advances of using MOx‐based sensors as electronic‐tongue and electronic‐nose for non‐invasive health monitoring and MOx‐based sensor mobile robots for remote surveillance is also discussed.
Purification of a peptide tagged protein via an affinity chromatographic process with underivatized silica
Authors: Rauwolf Stefan , Steegmüller Tobias , Schwaminger Sebastian Patrick , Berensmeier Sonja
Published: June 2021

Silica is widely used for chromatography resins due to its high mechanical strength, column efficiency, easy manufacturing (i.e. controlled size and porosity), and low‐cost. Despite these positive attributes to silica, it is currently used as a backbone for chromatographic resins in biotechnological downstream processing. The aim of this study is to show how the octapeptide (RH)4 can be used as peptide tag for high‐purity protein purification on bare silica. The tag possesses a high affinity to deprotonated silanol groups because the tag's arginine groups interact with the surface via an ion pairing mechanism. A chromatographic workflow to purify GFP fused with (RH)4 could be implemented. Purities were determined by SDS‐PAGE and RP‐HPLC. The equilibrium binding capacity of the fusion protein GFP‐(RH)4 on silica is 450 mg/g and the dynamic binding capacity around 3 mg/mL. One‐step purification from clarified lysate achieved a purity of 93% and a recovery of 94%. Overloading the column enhances the purity to >95%. Static experiments with different buffers showed variability of the method making the system independent from buffer choice. Our designed peptide tag allows bare silica to be utilized in preparative chromatography for downstream bioprocessing; thus, providing a cost saving factor regarding expensive surface functionalization. Underivatized silica in combination with our (RH)4 peptide tag allows the purification of proteins, in all scales, without relying on complex resins.
Permitted daily exposure limits for noteworthy N‐nitrosamines
Authors: Johnson George E. , Dobo Krista , Gollapudi Bhaskar , Harvey Jim , Kenny Julia , Kenyon Michelle , Lynch Anthony , Minocherhomji Sheroy , Nicolette John , Thybaud Veronique , Wheeldon Ryan , Zeller Andreas
Published: June 2021

A genotoxic carcinogen, N‐nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), was detected as a synthesis impurity in some valsartan drugs in 2018, and other N‐nitrosamines, such as N‐nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), were later detected in other sartan products. N‐nitrosamines are pro‐mutagens that can react with DNA following metabolism to produce DNA adducts, such as O6‐alkyl‐guanine. The adducts can result in DNA replication miscoding errors leading to GC>AT mutations and increased risk of genomic instability and carcinogenesis. Both NDMA and NDEA are known rodent carcinogens in male and female rats. The DNA repair enzyme, methylguanine DNA‐methyltransferase can restore DNA integrity via the removal of alkyl groups from guanine in an error‐free fashion and this can result in nonlinear dose responses and a point of departure or “practical threshold” for mutation at low doses of exposure. Following International recommendations (ICHM7; ICHQ3C and ICHQ3D), we calculated permissible daily exposures (PDE) for NDMA and NDEA using published rodent cancer bioassay and in vivo mutagenicity data to determine benchmark dose values and define points of departure and adjusted with appropriate uncertainty factors (UFs). PDEs for NDMA were 6.2 and 0.6 μg/person/day for cancer and mutation, respectively, and for NDEA, 2.2 and 0.04 μg/person/day. Both PDEs are higher than the acceptable daily intake values (96 ng for NDMA and 26.5 ng for NDEA) calculated by regulatory authorities using simple linear extrapolation from carcinogenicity data. These PDE calculations using a bench‐mark approach provide a more robust assessment of exposure limits compared with simple linear extrapolations and can better inform risk to patients exposed to the contaminated sartans.
Driving bans for diesel cars in German cities: The role of ENGOs and Courts in producing an unlikely outcome
Authors: Töller Annette Elisabeth
Published: June 2021

Driving bans for diesel cars have been adopted, are looming or have been narrowly avoided in 41 major German cities as of April 2021. This paper analyses this highly unlikely outcome of a political process that began in 2010 by addressing a number of causal factors and qualifying the weight and the way in which they contribute to the overall result. First, in the category of institutions, there are the European Ambient Air Quality Directive and the right of environmental associations to sue; second, the striking failure to adopt alternative measures to significantly reduce NO2 concentration; third, in the category of actors there is the Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) utilizing the right to take legal action in its “fight for clean air” as well as the German administrative courts which handled the legal cases filed by the DUH by placing great emphasis on health protection and compliance with European law.
The combination of different nitrogen fertilizer types could promote rice growth by alleviating the inhibition of straw decomposition
Authors: Tang Jichao , Zhang Ruoyu , Li Hechao , Tan Jiali , Song Wenjie , Wen Xin , Lu Bilin , Hu Zhengrong
Published: June 2021

Straw return plays an important role in the improvement of farmland ecological environments, increasing soil fertility, crop quality, and yield. However, in the early growth of rice (Oryza sativa L.), straw decomposition and rice growth may be inhibited by suboptimal carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratios. We, therefore, explored methods that could alleviate the inhibition of straw decomposition using different combinations of ammonium bicarbonate and compound fertilizer. No fertilizer (CK) and compound fertilizer (S0) were used as the control. The ratios of added ammonium bicarbonate were 10% (S1), 20% (S2), 30% (S3), and 40% (S4), respectively. Compared with the S0 treatment, the S2 treatment accelerated straw decomposition, promoted the early growth of tillers and roots, and improved the leaf area index, dry matter accumulation, and N use efficiency (apparent N utilization, agronomic N utilization, and partial factor productivity increased by 4.05‒19.48% in two years). Moreover, panicle number, filled‐grain percentage, and 1000‐grain weight were significantly higher in the S2 treatment than other treatments. The grain yield of S2 treatment was significantly higher than that of S0 treatment by 4.06% (2019) and 5.66% (2020). Regression analysis revealed that the optimal ratios of ammonium bicarbonate for increasing straw decomposition and grain yield were relatively close, 16.27% and 14.60%, respectively. These results suggest that compared with conventional fertilization method (S0), the 20% treatment is a more effective fertilization method that prevents inhibition of straw decomposition, promoting rice growth and yield, and improving nitrogen (N) use efficiency.
10‐Gingerol alleviates hypoxia/reoxygenation‐induced cardiomyocyte injury through inhibition of the Wnt5a/Frizzled‐2 pathway
Authors: Zheng Bin , Qi Jiaying , Liu Panpan , Zhang Muqing , Zhang Yuanyuan , Xue Yucong , Han Xue , Xu Shan , Chu Li
Published: June 2021

10‐Gingerol (10‐Gin), an active ingredient extracted from ginger, has been reported to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. However, 10‐Gin has not been proved to offer protection against cardiomyocyte injury induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of 10‐Gin against H/R‐induced injury and its potential mechanisms in cardiomyocytes. A H/R injury model of H9c2 cardiomyocytes was established using 600 μmol/L CoCl2 to induce hypoxia in the cells for 24 hr and then reoxygenated for 3 hr. 10‐Gin was pretreated with H9c2 cardiomyocytes for 24 hr to assess its cardiomyocyte protection. Our results showed that 10‐Gin improved the viability of H9c2 cardiomyocytes in the H/R model and decreased the activities of creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, and the generation of reactive oxygen species. By intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) fluorescence, we found that 10‐Gin could significantly reduce the [Ca2+]i concentration. 10‐Gin administration increased the activities of antioxidase and reduced malondialdehyde content and inflammatory cytokine levels. 10‐Gin also reduced the apoptosis levels. Importantly, 10‐Gin administration decreased the gene and protein expressions of Wnt5a and Frizzled‐2. In conclusion, 10‐Gin alleviates H/R‐induced cardiomyocyte injury, which is associated with the antioxidation, anti‐inflammation, antiapoptosis action, and reduction of [Ca2+]i overload by suppressing the Wnt5a/Frizzled‐2 pathway.
Emergency management to avoid the spread of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Gaza Strip
Authors: Musalam Alaa M. A. , Abunamous Raed E. S. , El‐Ashgar Nizam M. , Alhana Ahmed S.
Published: June 2021

Gaza Strip is exposed to the danger of the novel coronavirus pandemic ‘nCOVID‐19’ spread, which exacerbates the crises severity on this besieged area since 2007. This study aims to identify the preventive actions during the action effectiveness implemented by the Central Emergency Committee and the Ministry of Health to reduce the coronavirus spread in Gaza Strip. The researchers have followed the descriptive and the analytical methodology of the purposive sample responses data from the preventive medicine workers, the security team, and the members of the Central Emergency Committee.The most important results of the study showed that targeted peoples have been reexamined several times to ensure that they are recovered from the disease with an average of 81.0%. The reliability and accuracy of the detection tests of the coronavirus disease were of an average of 79.33%. In addition, the results demonstrate the existence of a strong correlation between the preventive action taken by the Central Emergency Committee and the effectiveness of the procedures to prevent the coronavirus pandemic. Also, the study shows a statistical significance effect at the level of significance (α ≤ 0.05) regarding the prevention procedures from the coronavirus pandemic and the effectiveness of the procedures.
Mindfulness effects on lifestyle behavior and blood pressure: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: An Eunjoo , Irwin Michael R. , Doering Lynn V. , Brecht Mary‐Lynn , Watson Karol E. , Corwin Elizabeth , Macey Paul M.
Published: June 2021

Background and aims

HTN affects nearly 50% of U.S. adults and is the leading modifiable cardiovascular risk factor. A healthy diet and exercise can improve BP control, but adherence to these interventions is low. We tested whether a multimodal mind–body program, Mindful Awareness Practices (MAP) could improve BP and lifestyle behaviors associated with HTN when compared to a Health Promotion Program (HPP).

Methods

Adults with BP >120/80 were randomized to MAP or HPP. Outcome measurements of BP, self‐reported diet, and exercise were analyzed with intent‐to‐treat group comparisons using repeated measures linear mixed models.

Results

There was an MAP–HPP between‐group difference in interactions of time‐by‐systolic BP (P = 0.005) and time‐by‐diastolic BP (P = .003). The mean drops in SBP from baseline to week 13 for the MAP group was 19 mm Hg (138 ± 15 mm Hg‐119 ± 6 mm Hg) compared to 7 mm Hg (134 ± 18 mm Hg‐127 ± 22 mm Hg) in the HPP group. Similarly, a greater reduction in DBP was observed in the MAP group compared to the HPP group, 12 mm Hg (89 mm Hg ± 11‐77 ± 7 mm Hg) and 1 mm Hg (81 ± 16 mm Hg‐80 ± 18 mm Hg), respectively. Mediational analysis of the MAP group showed the total effect of mindfulness practice minutes on SBP with indirect effect (ab) of −.057 was significant, resulting in a 40% lower SBP for total effect (c) compared to direct (c′) effect alone. The mediational model suggests MAP has a modest positive influence on participants initiating lifestyle behavior change, which partially explains the greater reduction in BP by the MAP group.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a multimodal mind–body program involving mindfulness practice may improve BP control in adults with HTN.
Thermal characteristics of forced convection in combined pressure and shear‐driven flow of a non‐Newtonian third‐grade fluid through parallel plates
Authors: Chaudhuri Sumanta , Sinha Sourick , Chakraborty Paromita , Das Mrutyunjay , Sahoo Satyabrata , Das Bitanjaya
Published: June 2021

Heat transfer in a non‐Newtonian third‐grade fluid, flowing under the action of pressure gradient and shear, through two parallel plates, is considered. The upper plate moves with a constant velocity. Constant wall heat fluxes are applied to the plates. Effect of viscous dissipation is included, which has a major role in heat transfer of non‐Newtonian fluids. The governing equations are nonlinear and are solved semi‐analytically by using the least‐square method (LSM). Then, using the solution for velocity in the energy equation, the solution is obtained by a direct integration process. Further, approximate analytical solutions are obtained by the perturbation method, which validates the results generated by the LSM. The effects of the third‐grade fluid parameter on the velocity and temperature and also on the physical quantity, such as Nusselt's number, are discussed. Further, viscous dissipation effects on the temperature distribution have been analyzed. Observations show that the movement of the upper plate results in a significant decrease in temperature near the upper plate. For the unit heat flux ratio, the temperature difference between the surface and fluid is more at the upper surface due to the enhanced convective heat transfer caused by the moving upper plate. Nusselt's number increases significantly with an increase in the heat flux ratio.
Inhibiting USP14 ameliorates inflammatory responses in trophoblast cells by suppressing MAPK/NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Zhao Yingzi , Zong Fang
Published: June 2021

Background

Preeclampsia can cause severe consequences for pregnant women and infants, and developing effective medicine or methods to prevent or treat patients with preeclampsia is urgently needed. Ubiquitin‐specific protease 14 (USP14) has emerged as a critical regulator in the development of human cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. However, its role in preeclampsia remains elusive.

Methods

The expression of USP14 in placental tissues from healthy donors and preeclampsia patients were determined by quantitative reverse transcription PCR assay. The protein levels of targeted genes were evaluated by Western blotting assay. Small interfering RNA‐mediated gene knockdown was used to reduce USP14 expression in trophoblast cell lines.

Results

The expression levels of USP14 and proinflammatory cytokine were substantially upregulated in placental tissues from preeclampsia patients. Knockdown or inhibition of USP14 significantly abrogated hypoxia/reoxygenation‐induced upregulation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) activation and proinflammatory cytokine production.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that USP14 promotes proinflammatory cytokine production through activation of NF‐κB. Developing drugs targeting USP14 may be beneficial for the prevention or treatment of patients with preeclampsia.
Snapshot polarized light scattering spectroscopy using spectrally‐modulated polarimetry for early gastric cancer detection
Authors: Tuniyazi Abudusalamu , Mu Tingkui , Jiang Xiaosa , Han Feng , Li Haoyang , Li Qiuxia , Gong Hang , Wang Wenjing , Qin Bin
Published: June 2021

Polarized light scattering spectroscopy (PLSS) is a promising optical technique developed for the detection of cancer, which extracts the single scattering light to infer morphological information of epithelial cells. However, traditional PLSS uses either a rotatable polarizer or two orthogonal polarizers to purify the single scattering light, which makes it complicated and challenged to build a PLSS endoscope. Herein, we propose a snapshot PLSS with a single optical path to directly get the single scattering light for the first time. The single scattering light is encoded using the spectrally‐modulated polarimetry and decoded using the continuous slide iterative method. Both the polystyrene microsphere solutions and the ex vivo gastric cancer samples are used to verify the method. The experimental results of the snapshot PLSS are consistent well with that of the traditional PLSS. The proposed method has a potential for the building of snapshot PLSS endoscope systems in future.
Retracted: A new 3D pillar‐layered Cd(II) compound: Luminescence sensing property for detection of Fe3+ ions and treatment activity on focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion
Authors: Wang Zhi , Ye Ming , Huang Ya‐Yi , Hu Fang , Qi Feng , Li Dong
Published: June 2021

Retraction: [Zhi Wang, Ming Ye, Ya‐Yi Huang, Fang Hu, Feng Qi, Dong Li, A new 3D pillar‐layered Cd(II) compound: Luminescence sensing property for detection of Fe3+ ions and treatment activity on focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion, J. Chin. Chem. Soc. 2021, 68, 2013‐2020 (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jccs.202100108)].

The above article, published online on 4 June 2021 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the journal Editor‐in‐Chief, Jye‐Shane Yang, the Chemical Society Located in Taipei, and Wiley‐VCH GmbH, Weinheim. The article is being retracted at the authors' request; the authors confirmed that freshly prepared samples corresponding to results in figure 6 show high toxicity. As a result, the conclusions of the article are not considered reliable.
First‐in‐human intracochlear application of human stromal cell‐derived extracellular vesicles
Authors: Warnecke Athanasia , Prenzler Nils , Harre Jennifer , Köhl Ulrike , Gärtner Lutz , Lenarz Thomas , Laner‐Plamberger Sandra , Wietzorrek Georg , Staecker Hinrich , Lassacher Teresa , Hollerweger Julia , Gimona Mario , Rohde Eva
Published: June 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from the secretome of human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) contain numerous factors that are known to exert anti‐inflammatory effects. MSC‐EVs may serve as promising cell‐based therapeutics for the inner ear to attenuate inflammation‐based side effects from cochlear implantation which represents an unmet clinical need. In an individual treatment performed on a ‘named patient basis’, we intraoperatively applied allogeneic umbilical cord‐derived MSC‐EVs (UC‐MSC‐EVs) produced according to good manufacturing practice. A 55‐year‐old patient suffering from Menière's disease was treated with intracochlear delivery of EVs prior to the insertion of a cochlear implant. This first‐in‐human use of UC‐MSC‐EVs demonstrates the feasibility of this novel adjuvant therapeutic approach. The safety and efficacy of intracochlear EV‐application to attenuate side effects of cochlea implants have to be determined in controlled clinical trials.
Serotonin syndrome after an overdose of over‐the‐counter medicine containing dextromethorphan
Authors: Omoto Nina , Kanzawa Yohei , Ishimaru Naoto , Kinami Saori
Published: June 2021

Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life‐threatening adverse reaction from therapeutic drug use, intentional self‐poisoning, or inadvertent interactions between drugs. We report a case of the serotonin syndrome after an overdose of a commonly available over‐the‐counter cough medicine, Shin CONTAC sekidome daburu jizokusei. Over‐the‐counter drugs containing dextromethorphan may, in rare cases, cause health problems requiring hospitalization or worse. An appropriate explanation from the pharmacist at the time of purchase, although not mandatory, is recommended.
Long‐term outcome of Wilson's disease complicated by liver disease
Authors: Arai Satoko , Kogiso Tomomi , Ogasawara Yuri , Sagawa Takaomi , Taniai Makiko , Tokushige Katsutoshi
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim

Wilson's disease (WD) is a rare inherited disease that causes systemic copper accumulation. This study examined the long‐term course of WD patients with liver disease.

Methods

The 12 patients (9 female patients) enrolled in the study had a median age of 28 years (range: 19–57 years) at their first visit to our hospital. Clinical course and fibrosis markers were assessed in all patients.

Results

The median age at diagnosis was 24 years (range: 5–42 years). One patient had acute liver failure (ALF) and 11 patients had chronic liver disease (CLD, 5 with cirrhosis). The patients were followed‐up for >20 years. The patient with ALF underwent liver transplantation; the postoperative course during the subsequent 20 years was good. Of the six patients with CLD, liver cirrhosis developed in four patients with interrupted chelating therapy. Two of the patients with cirrhosis died; one of these two patients died at 21 years after liver transplantation. However, the remaining patients with continued treatment exhibited a favorable clinical course for 30 years and none developed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The duration of chelation therapy was significantly negatively correlated (P < 0.05) with the fibrosis‐4 index or aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) score at the last visit; lower values were indicative of greater treatment success. Patients with an APRI score ≥1.5 had a significantly worse prognosis (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Long‐term survival of patients with WD was achieved without worsened liver function or carcinogenesis with appropriate treatment. Treatment disruption should be avoided.
Synthesis, biological evaluation, and docking studies of various β‐substituted porphyrin conjugates embedded with N‐containing heterocycles
Authors: Masaret Ghada S.
Published: June 2021

A new methodology for the synthesis of some new β‐porphyrin heterocyclic compounds containing nitrogen derivatives10,12,13,15,17,19,21,22,25,27, and29was screened for their cytotoxic activities. Both elemental and spectral analyses were used to confirm the structures of new compounds. Compounds22,27, and21exhibited very strong activity against the HepG2 cell line. Investigation of the binding between porphyrin22and the binding site of telomerase was performed by molecular docking.
[18F]‐labeled positron emission tomography ligand for the histamine H4 receptor
Authors: Zak Agnieszka , Lemaire Lucas , Chalon Sylvie , Chicheri Gabrielle , Marzag Hamid , Bodard Sylvie , Sérrière Sophie , Routier Sylvain , Buron Frédéric , Vercouillie Johnny
Published: June 2021

We synthesized 5‐[18F]‐fluoro‐1H‐indol‐2‐yl)(4‐methyl‐1‐piperazinyl)methanone ([18F]5) via a Suzuki approach starting from a protected pinacol borane precursor followed by acidic hydrolysis of the t‐Boc protecting group. The non‐optimized radiochemical yield was 5.7 ± 1.35%, radiochemical purity was over 99%, and molar activity was 100.7 ± 34.5 GBq/μmol (n = 3). [18F]5 was stable in rat plasma for at least 4 h and was evaluated by μPET imaging and biodistribution using a unilateral quinolinic acid rat model of neuroinflammation. The time‐activity curve showed that [18F]5 entered the brain immediately after intravenous injection and then left it progressively with a very low level reached from 30 min after injection. The biodistribution study showed no difference in the accumulation of [18F]5 between the lesioned and intact side of the brain and between control rats and animals pretreated with a saturating dose of JNJ‐7777120 as a specific H4R antagonist. Hence, despite its in vitro nanomolar affinity for H4R, and its ability to cross the blood–brain barrier in rats, [18F]5 does not appear suitable to image in vivo the receptor by PET.
Investigation of hydrogen bonding in aqueous acetone mixtures by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Bo , Liu Zhe , Wang Shenghan , Sun Chenglin , Men Zhiwei
Published: June 2021

The Raman spectra of aqueous acetone solution with various concentrations were measured at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. We find that the peak at ~3400 cm−1 showed a significant blue shift at Va (Va represents the volume fraction of acetone) >0.2, whereas the peak at 197 cm−1 exhibited red shift under the same conditions. The results indicate that the cage structure of water is destroyed and a large number of water molecules form acetone–water complex with acetone molecules. Moreover, the acetone–water complex from the acetone–(water)2 structure gradually changed to acetone–water at Va > 0.6. In addition, the Raman spectra of methyl groups were also studied, which illustrates that the methyl group of acetone forms a hydrophobic hydrated structure. Finally, the phase transition process of acetone–water complex in methanol–water binary solution was discussed.
Evaluation of the comprehensiveness, accuracy and currency of the Cochrane COVID‐19 Study Register for supporting rapid evidence synthesis production
Authors: Metzendorf Maria‐Inti , Featherstone Robin M.
Published: June 2021

The Cochrane COVID‐19 Study Register (CCSR) is a public, continually updated database of COVID‐19 study references. The aim of this study‐based register is to support rapid and living evidence synthesis, including an evidence ecosystem of COVID‐19 research (CEOsys). In November and December 2020, we conducted an evaluation of the CCSR for CEOsys, measured its performance and identified areas for improvement. For the evaluation we generated a purposive sample of 286 studies from 20 reviews to calculate the CCSR's comprehensiveness (sensitivity), accuracy (correctly classified and linked studies) and currency (time to publish and process references). Our sample showed that the CCSR had an overall comprehensiveness of 77.2%, with the highest coverage for interventional studies (94.4%). The study register had 100% coverage for trial registry records, 86.5% for journal articles and 52.4% for preprints. A total of 98.3% of references were correctly classified with regard to study type, and 93.4% with regard to study aim. A total of 89% of studies were correctly linked. A total of 81.4% of references were published to the register in under 30 days, with 0.5 day (median) for trial registry records, 2 days for journal articles and 56 days for preprints. The CCSR had high comprehensiveness, accurate study classifications and short publishing times for journal articles and trial registry records in the sample. We identified that coverage and publishing time for preprints needed improvement. Finally, the evaluation illustrated the value of a study‐based register for identifying additional study references for analysis in evidence synthesis.
Tourist versus resident movement patterns in open scenic areas: Case study of Confucius Temple Scenic area, Nanjing, China
Authors: Wu Chengcheng , Chen Dawei
Published: June 2021

This article aims at exploring various pedestrian movement patterns and their interactions in open scenic areas. Spatial influence from road networks is also considered by using Space syntax. The results caught three types of movement patterns and two significant interactions. Spatial influence has a strong connection to pedestrians, but differs due to pedestrian type. Prediction models based on random forest were built and showed better performance for resident pedestrians. The results can enhance the walking comforts of tourists and residents in open scenic areas, and give practical suggestions for scenic management, attraction planning and internal road improvement.
Preprints as an alternative to conference proceedings: A hands‐on experience at EDICIC Iberian Meeting 2019
Authors: Urbano Cristóbal , Tafalla Sara , Borrego Ángel , Abadal Ernest
Published: June 2021

This article investigated a novel method of disseminating conference proceedings via preprint servers. The EDICIC 2019 conference encouraged presenters to upload their research onto preprint servers before the conference and did not produce a conference proceedings. The objective of this was to facilitate pre‐conference dissemination of the research and use the conference for debate. Authors could then submit their articles to a journal. A survey of participating authors shows that they had little familiarity with preprints prior to the conference. Nevertheless, nearly three‐quarters of authors deposited their preprints before the conference. Most respondents were in favour or pre‐conference deposit and believed it would allow conferences to run more smoothly. However there was concern that Library and Information Science journals will not accept submissions that have been issued as preprints. Authors also expressed concerns about the lack of recognition for their research if conference proceedings are not published. They highlighted the effort required to pass a double evaluation by conference organizers and then by journal editors, emphasized that the culture of preprints and open science is not consolidated in the discipline yet, and noted that the aim of increasing interaction and debate in the conference was not fully reached.
Near‐Unity and Zero‐Thermal‐Quenching Far‐Red‐Emitting Composite Ceramics via Pressureless Glass Crystallization
Authors: Zheng Guojun , Xiao Wenge , Wu Huajun , Wu Jianhong , Liu Xiaofeng , Qiu Jianrong
Published: June 2021

Laser‐driven (LD) lighting is emerging as the next‐generation high‐power solid‐state lighting technology. All‐inorganic color converters with high quantum efficiency (QE), small thermal quenching, high thermal conductivity, and high thermal and chemical stabilities are crucial to coping with the enormous heat generated in LD lighting. Although luminescent translucent ceramics are the most promising class of color converters, only green/yellow‐emitting ones with satisfactory performance are developed before. Here, a far‐red‐emitting composite ceramics Y3Al5O12 (YAG)–Al2O3:Cr3+ with near‐unity internal QE and zero‐thermal quenching are prepared via pressureless glass crystallization, where the inside light scattering is finely tuned by simply manipulating the temperature to induce controllable grain growth. The commonly used inert matrix Al2O3 here becomes an optically active component as YAG, thus alleviating the undesired concentration quenching while maintaining strong light absorption. Therefore, a high‐power LD far‐red lighting source with luminescence saturation threshold up to 21.4 W mm−2 is demonstrated, which may find broad applications in plant growth lighting, solar simulators, and phototherapy.
Laboratory study of the electrical properties of Lutetian limestones in the 100 Hz to 10 MHz frequency range
Authors: Souffaché Blaise , Tabbagh Alain
Published: June 2021

Lutetian limestones have been widely used in historical monuments within the Paris Basin during the course of the medieval and modern periods. Among the physical properties that can be used to assess the evolution of the limestonesin situin the buildings and their present health, the complex effective permittivity in the 10–100 kHz frequency range is easy to measure and reflects the internal structure of the stone along with the dependence on the water content. To improve our knowledge about this property, a laboratory study on four samples collected in the relevant quarries has been undertaken using measurements in the 100 Hz–10 MHz frequency range. Except close to zero water content, the observed results exhibit a quasi‐absence of variation of the real effective permittivity with the water content. The frequency variation fits fairly well with a model taking into account a Jonscher's decrease, a direct current conductivity, a high‐frequency dielectric permittivity and losses, and a relaxation phenomenon. When fitted by a Cole–Cole model, the magnitude of the corresponding relative permittivity change always stays close to 30, but the time constant varies from 1.0 μs to 0.1 μs as the water content increases.
What we hoped for and what we achieved: Tax performance of Semi‐Autonomous Revenue Authorities in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Jeppesen Matilde
Published: June 2021

Semi‐Autonomous Revenue Authorities (SARAs) have been introduced widely in the Global South with the hope of improving tax performance. However, while implementing the reform is an extensive restructuring and expensive endeavour, there is scarce systematic information on how SARAs have actually performed. This paper examines the average tax performance effect of introducing a SARA in sub‐Saharan Africa and finds a positive effect on direct tax revenue, but no effect on indirect or total tax revenue. This is significant as it implies that implementing a SARA is not a quick‐fix solution to improving total tax performance, but it does still offer some advantages. Additionally, the heterogeneous effects on direct and total tax revenue highlight the importance of how tax performance is evaluated.
Colorectal cancer screening and surveillance strategy for patients with Diamond Blackfan anemia: Preliminary recommendations from the Diamond Blackfan Anemia Registry
Authors: Lipton Jeffrey M. , Molmenti Christine L.S. , Hussain Maryam , Desai Pooja , Florento Maria , Atsidaftos Eva , Vlachos Adrianna
Published: June 2021

Diamond Blackfan anemia (DBA) is a rare inherited bone marrow failure syndrome characterized by red cell failure, congenital anomalies, poor linear growth, and cancer predisposition. Two previous analyses from the Diamond Blackfan Anemia Registry have quantified DBA as a cancer predisposition syndrome of moderate cancer penetrance. Patients with DBA have a 4.8‐fold higher relative risk of developing cancer with an overall cumulative incidence of 13.7% by age 45 years. The two most prevalent solid tumors are colorectal cancer (CRC) and osteogenic sarcoma. Current and evolving data support the institution of cancer screening and surveillance strategies for CRC in DBA.
Understanding decisions to participate in genomic medicine in children's cancer care: A comparison of what influences parents, health care providers, and the general community
Authors: De Abreu Lourenco Richard , McCarthy Maria C. , McMillan Laura J. , Sullivan Michael , Gillam Lyn
Published: June 2021

Background

The emerging role of genomically guided precision medicine in pediatric cancer care presents significant clinical, practical, and ethical challenges. We investigated the factors that influence decision‐making in genomic medicine from the perspective of different stakeholders in the context of difficult‐to‐treat childhood cancer.

Methods

Health care providers (HCPs), parents of childhood cancer survivors, and general community members completed an online discrete choice experiment survey. Respondents considered whether to recommend (HCPs) or choose (parents/community) a genomically guided approach to pediatric cancer treatment. Respondents completed eight choice questions varying by survival benefit, prognosis, likelihood of finding a target, quality of life (QoL), HCP/parent preference, need for biopsy, cost, and who pays. Data were analyzed using a probability regression model, with findings expressed as relative importance, stated importance, and marginal willingness to pay (mWTP).

Results

One hundred twenty‐six HCPs, 130 parents, and 531 community members participated. The probability of recommending/choosing genomically guided treatment increased significantly with better prognosis, survival benefit, improvements in QoL, and decision‐making partner support. It decreased with increasing costs and if parents paid for treatment. HCPs were more responsive to all factors but were most influenced by survival outcomes, and parents and community members by QoL. In contrast to these forced choice preference results, HCPs stated they were most influenced by QoL and community members by survival.

Conclusion

Our findings support the primacy of QoL in genomic decision‐making, with some differences across stakeholders in the other factors influencing decision‐making. These findings emphasize the need for high‐quality information giving and communication to support genomic medicine choices.