bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 1‐year training program in emergency medicine for physicians in Karachi, Pakistan: Evaluation of learner and program outcomes
Authors: Kemmler Charles B. , Saleem Syed Ghazanfar , Ali Saima , Samad Lubna , Haider Kaniz F. , Jamal Mohammad I. , Aziz Tariq , Maroof Quratulain , Dadabhoy Farah Z. , Yasin Zayed , Rybarczyk Megan M.
Published: May 2021

Background

Pakistan has an underdeveloped and overburdened emergency care system, with most emergency departments (EDs) staffed by physicians not formally trained in emergency medicine (EM). As of January 2020, only nine Pakistani institutions were providing formal EM specialty training; therefore, a training program of shorter duration is needed in the interim.

Methods

The Certification Program in Emergency Medicine (CPEM) is a 1‐year training program in EM consisting of two arms: CPEM‐Clinical (CPEM‐C), which includes physicians from The Indus Hospital (TIH) ED, and CPEM‐Didactic (CPEM‐D), including physicians from EDs across Karachi. Both groups participate in weekly conferences, including didactics, small‐group discussions, workshops, and journal clubs. CPEM‐C learners also receive clinical mentorship from visiting international and TIH EM faculty. Both groups were assessed with preprogram, midterm, and final examinations as well as on clinical skills. Additionally, both groups provided regular feedback on program content and administration.

Results

Twenty‐five of the 32 initially enrolled learners completed the program in June 2019. Scores on a matched set of 50 questions administered in the pretest and final examination improved by an average of 15.1% (p < 0.005) for CPEM‐C learners and 8.5% (p < 0.0005) for CPEM‐D learners, with 93% of learners showing improvement. Clinical evaluations of CPEM‐C and CPEM‐D learners during the first and fourth quarters showed an average improvement of 1.1 out of 5 (p < 0.05) and 1.2 out of 9 (p < 0.0005) points, respectively. Learner evaluations of the program were overall positive.

Conclusions

CPEM demonstrated significant improvement in test scores and clinical evaluations in both program arms. Evaluations also suggested that the program was well received. These data, along with CPEM’s ability to train physicians from multiple institutions using low‐cost, innovative educational strategies, suggest that it may be an effective, transferable mechanism for the expedited development of EM in Pakistan and countries where EM is developing as a specialty.
Aquifer lithology affects shallow groundwater quality more than nitrogen fertilizer form and placement method in an Iowa agricultural field
Authors: Schilling Keith E. , Streeter Matthew T. , Slater Brennan , Vogelgesang Jason , Clair Marty St. , Martin Anthony
Published: May 2021

Excessive nutrient loss threatens local and regional water resources, and many midwestern U.S. states are adopting nutrient reduction strategies to reduce export of N and P. A common practice to reduce N loss is improved fertilizer management. In this study, we used a strip trial design to assess the effects of split N application form (urea and urea ammonium nitrate [UAN]) and placement method (broadcast, coulter, Y‐drop) on corn (Zea mays L.) yields and shallow groundwater quality at an agricultural field at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, IA. Twelve shallow monitoring wells were installed within the production field and sampled 14 times across a corn–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation. Results showed that split application of UAN applied with either coulter injection or Y‐drop method produced approximately 8–11% higher corn yields than broadcast urea, but no statistically significant relation was found between groundwater quality and N form and placement method. Instead, we report that groundwater quality and levels were significantly influenced by variations in aquifer lithology. Groundwater within fine‐textured glacial till had significantly higher dissolved reactive P, SO4, and specific conductivity, whereas groundwater within the sand aquifer had a deeper water table and had higher NO3–N and dissolved oxygen. Study results suggest aquifer lithology can play a much larger role than varying the N form and application method on shallow groundwater quality in agricultural fields.
Design and Control of the Micromotor Swarm Toward Smart Applications
Authors: Yuan Kaisong , Pacheco Marta , Jurado-Sánchez Beatriz , Escarpa Alberto
Published: May 2021

Micro‐ and nanomotors are micro‐ and nanostructures capable of autonomous movement and collective behavior, mimicking natural counterparts. This review aims to give a recent perspective on micro‐ and nanomotors driven by intelligent mechanisms in action under the cooperative effect of the swarm of micromotors as their distinctive feature. Different energy sources and the factors that can influence cooperative micromotor motion are comprehensively covered, along with the underlying phenomena and related applications. The motion ability of micro/nanomotors, along with capabilities to reach a targeted destination, holds considerable promise to address remaining challenges in the environmental and biomedical fields.
Postoperative helmet therapy following fronto‐orbital advancement and cranial vault remodeling in patients with unilateral coronal synostosis
Authors: Wolfswinkel Erik M. , Sanchez‐Lara Pedro A. , Jacob Laya , Urata Mark M.
Published: May 2021

Out of all the synostotic corrective surgeries, fronto‐orbital advancement and cranial vault remodeling for patients with unilateral coronal synostosis is one of the hardest to maintain symmetric and proportional correction without some amount of relapse. Over the course of 20 years operating on these patients, the senior author has made multiple adjustments to compensate for relapse asymmetry, including overcorrection on the affected side, increased points of fixation, periosteal release, and scalp expansion with galeal scoring to minimize tension of the closure. As a result of these interventions, we have seen improved immediate results following surgery. However, we have continued to note clinically significant relapse postoperatively. As such, we have started to implement postoperative helmet therapy (PHT) to help maintain the surgical correction, improve secondary brachycephaly, and increase overall symmetry. PHT is a reasonable low‐risk complement to fronto‐orbital advancement and cranial vault remolding. Clinically, PHT appears to help minimize relapse and improve overall head symmetry. Further investigation and increased patient enrollment are required to determine the true benefits of PHT in this patient population.
Amine‐functionalized metal–organic frameworks/epoxy nanocomposites: Structure‐properties relationships
Authors: Jouyandeh Maryam , Vahabi Henri , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Serre Christian
Published: May 2021

Amine‐functionalized MIL‐101(Cr)‐NH2 metal–organic frameworks (MOF‐N)/epoxy nanocomposites with Excellent cure label and high thermal stability were developed. Structure–property relationship was discussed by comparison of the cure state, thermal and viscoelastic behavior of epoxy nanocomposites containing pristine MOF or MOF‐N applying differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis. Epoxy containing 0.3 wt% MOF‐N exhibited high glass transition temperature (Tg) of 96°C compared with 85°C observed for epoxy/MOF system. Thus, MOF‐N played the role of catalyst in epoxy/amine curing reaction. Correspondingly, a lower activation energy was obtained based on cure kinetics modeling based on DSC measurements. Besides, incorporation of low amount (0.5 wt%) MOF‐N induced an early‐state resistance against decomposition, featured by 11°C rise in decomposition temperature at 5% weight loss. This was ascribed to the formation of porous metallic oxides during thermal decomposition of MOF‐N in the epoxy system acting as a heat barrier, which increased the activation energy of decomposition. Amine‐functionalization considerably prevented from further oxidation of the inner part of the matrix.
Study on preparing of ultrahigh‐molecular weight polyethylene microporous materials by novel non‐dense injection molding method
Authors: Wang Guoyan , Gao Shujian , He Jimin , An Zijuan , Shao Cuiying , Ding Yun , Jin Zhiming
Published: May 2021

In this article, a novel method called non‐dense injection molding with higher efficiency was proposed to prepare ultrahigh‐molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) microcellular open porous materials. The characteristics and the basic principle of the molding process were described, and the effects of shot size, injection pressure, and injection speed on microstructure, average pore size, porosity, and pore size distribution were further studied. The results showed that under the parameters of the shot size, injection pressure and injection speed set as 60%, 63.9 MPa, and 100%, the microporous UHMWPE materials were obtained with the average pore size 38.9 μm and porosity 38.3 vol% respectively, which were close to the microporous structure and properties of the commercial filter products prepared by traditional powder sintering method.
Synthesis and characterization of bio‐based polyesters derived from 1,10‐decanediol
Authors: Wang Guoqiang , Song Jiaqi
Published: May 2021

Two kinds of bio‐based polyesters were synthesized from 1,10‐decanediol (DD), dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) or 2,6‐naphthalene dicarboxylic acid (NDCA). Chemical structure, thermal properties and crystal structures, tensile properties and rheological properties were investigated. The glass transition temperature and melting temperature of poly(decamethylene 2,6‐naphthalate) (PDN) are higher than that of poly(decamethylene terephthalate) (PDT). Differential scanning calorimetry and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction results suggested that PDT and PDN were semi‐crystalline polymers. Equilibrium melting points of PDT and PDN were 129.5°C and 167.1°C, respectively. Compared with PDT, PDN exhibited the higher tensile strength (36.8 MPa) and lower elongation at break (224%) and the complex viscosity of PDN is more sensitive to temperature and oscillation frequency. Compared with the current available bio‐based plastic poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), PDT and PDN exhibit higher melting temperature, faster crystallization rate and comparable tensile properties.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Ethyl Chlorofluoroacetate with Aryl Bromides
Authors: Li Han , Sheng Jie , Wu Bing‐Bing , Li Yan , Wang Xi‐Sheng
Published: May 2021

A combinatorial nickel‐catalyzed monofluoroalkylation of aryl bromides with the industrial raw regent ethyl chlorofluoroacetate has been developed. The two key factors to successful conversion are the combination of nickel with readily available nitrogen and phosphine ligands and the using of a mixture of different solvents. Mechanistic investigations indicated a new zinc regent might generated in situ and be involved in the reaction process.
Plasmonic Pollen Grain Nanostructures: A Three‐Dimensional Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS)‐Active Substrate
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Kamal , Drmosh Qasem Ahmed , Mohamedkhair Amar Kamal
Published: May 2021

A new route has been developed to design plasmonic pollen grain‐like nanostructures (PGNSs) as surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)‐active substrate. The nanostructures consisting of silver (Ag) and gold (Au) nanoparticles along with zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoclusters as spacers were found highly SERS‐active. The morphology of PGNSs and those obtained in the intermediate stage along with each elemental evolution has been investigated by a high‐resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy. The optical band gaps and crystal structure have been identified by UV‐vis absorption and X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD) measurements, respectively. For PGNSs specimen, three distinct absorption bands related to constituent elements Ag, Au, and ZnO were observed, whereas XRD peaks confirmed the existence of Ag, Au, and ZnO within the composition of PGNSs. SERS‐activity of PGNSs was confirmed using Rhodamine 6G (R6G) as Raman‐active dyes. Air‐cooled solid‐state laser kits of 532 nm were used as excitation sources in SERS measurements. SERS enhancement factor was estimated for PGNSs specimen and was found as high as 3.5×106. Finite difference time domain analysis was carried out to correlate the electromagnetic (EM) near‐field distributions with the experiment results achieved under this investigation. EM near‐field distributions at different planes were extracted for s‐, p‐ and 45° of incident polarizations. EM near‐field distributions for such nanostructures as well as current density distributions under different circumstances were demonstrated and plausible scenarios were elucidated given SERS enhancements. Such generic fabrication route as well as correlated investigation is not only indispensable to realize the potential of SERS applications but also unveil the underneath plasmonic characteristics of complex SERS‐active nanostructures.
Observer‐based decentralized robust H∞ output tracking control with preview action for uncertain and disturbed nonlinear interconnected systems
Authors: Yu Xiao , Liao Fucheng , Li Li , Lu Yanrong
Published: May 2021

The problem of observer‐based decentralized robust H∞ output tracking control with preview action in a class of uncertain and disturbed nonlinear interconnected systems is investigated in this study. The considered interconnected system consists of several subsystems with nonlinear interconnections, parametric uncertainties, and external disturbances. Based on the augmented error system approach combined with Lyapunov stability theory and special matrix inequality linearization techniques, a sufficient condition for the existence of a decentralized observer‐based robust H∞ output feedback preview controller is derived for the original interconnected system in terms of linear matrix inequality (LMI) formulations. The gain matrices of the tracking controller and state observer are derived using only a one‐step LMI procedure, which overcomes the drawbacks of some multistep iterative algorithms. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is validated using a numerical example.
Composite anti‐disturbance landing control scheme for recovery of carrier‐based UAVs
Authors: Xu Jianwei , Zhang Kunpeng , Zhang Dafa , Wang Shiling , Zhu Qian , Gao Xuegang
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a disturbance‐observer‐based composite anti‐disturbance control method is proposed for landing control of the carrier‐based UAV subject to both external and internal disturbances. By the virtue of the composite control scheme, two nested loops are simultaneously designed. In the inner loop, disturbance observers are employed to estimate the effect of disturbances. On the other hand, in the outer loop, the sliding mode control (SMC) is designed to attenuate both the disturbance estimation error and guarantee the control performance. Then, with the disturbance estimation provided by the disturbance observer, the composite anti‐disturbance controller is designed to achieve disturbance compensation and attenuation using both the feed‐forward and feed‐back channels. Besides, the stability of overall closed‐loop is analyzed via Lyapunov theory. Finally, simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Brazilian biorefineries from second generation biomass: critical insights from industry and future perspectives
Authors: Chandel Anuj K. , Forte Marcus B.S. , Gonçalves Igor S. , Milessi Thais S. , Arruda Priscila V. , Carvalho Walter , Mussatto Solange I.
Published: May 2021

Transitioning from gasoline and petroleum‐based products to biofuels and green chemicals is a paradigm shift that will lead to the development of the bioeconomy. In this sense, the role of biorefineries in countries like Brazil is very important as the country generates a huge amount of second generation (2G) biomass every year and also has an attractive consumable market. However, technological innovations are still required to unleash the fullest potential of biomass conversion to biofuels and biochemicals, although successful examples are already a reality. For example, Amyris Inc. has developed renewable products for cosmetics (squalene), healthcare (artemisinin), and flavors / fragrances, and Suzano Papel e Celulose has developed sustainable technologies for the production of pulp and paper, and lignin‐derived adhesives (Ecolig). First‐generation ethanol in Brazil is an established source of transportation fuel but 2G ethanol production with low production costs is still a challenge at commercial scale, and companies like Raízen and GranBio continue making efforts to improve the economic feasibility of the adopted processes. In this context, the RenovaBio Policy launched by the Federal Brazilian Government in December 2017 aims to boost the production and utilization of biofuels and green chemicals in the country. Considering the matters mentioned above, this paper discusses the Brazilian biorefinery developments, technological advances, and current industrial scenario for the production of biofuels and chemicals. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Continuous optical in‐line glucose monitoring and control in CHO cultures contributes to enhanced metabolic efficiency while maintaining darbepoetin alfa product quality
Authors: Lederle Mario , Tric Mircea , Roth Tatjana , Schütte Lina , Rattenholl Anke , Lütkemeyer Dirk , Wölfl Stefan , Werner Tobias , Wiedemann Philipp
Published: May 2021

Great efforts are directed towards improving productivity, consistency and quality of biopharmaceutical processes and products. One particular area is the development of new sensors for continuous monitoring of critical bioprocess parameters by using online or in‐line monitoring systems. Recently, we developed a glucose biosensor applicable in single‐use, in‐line and long‐term glucose monitoring in mammalian cell bioreactors. Now, we integrated this sensor in an automated glucose monitoring and feeding system capable of maintaining stable glucose levels, even at very low concentrations. We compared this fed‐batch feedback system at both low (< 1 mM) and high (40 mM) glucose levels with traditional batch culture methods, focusing on glycosylation and glycation of the recombinant protein darbepoetin alfa (DPO) produced by a CHO cell line. We evaluated cell growth, metabolite and product concentration under different glucose feeding strategies and show that continuous feeding, even at low glucose levels, has no harmful effects on DPO quantity and quality. We conclude that our system is capable of tight glucose level control throughout extended bioprocesses and has the potential to improve performance where constant maintenance of glucose levels is critical.
Recognition and pathological features of periampullary region adenocarcinoma with an indeterminable origin
Authors: Komine Ryuji , Kojima Motohiro , Ishi Genichiro , Kudo Masashi , Sugimoto Motokazu , Kobayashi Shin , Takahashi Shinichiro , Konishi Masaru , Kobayashi Tatsushi , Akimoto Tetsuo , Murakami Ayumi , Sasaki Motoko , Tanaka Mariko , Matsuzaki Akiko , Ohike Nobuyuki , Uchida Katsunori , Sugiyama Tomoko , Hirabayashi Kenichi , Tajiri Takuma , Ishida Kazuyuki , Kai Keita , Omori Yuko , Notohara Kenji , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Matsuda Yoko , Naito Yoshiki , Fukumura Yuki , Hamada Yoshihiro , Mihara Yumi , Masugi Yohei , Gotohda Naoto , Harada Kenichi , Fukushima Noriyoshi , Furukawa Toru
Published: May 2021

Determination of the primary tumor in periampullary region carcinomas can be difficult, and the pathological assessment and clinicopathological characteristics remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the current recognition and practices for periampullary region adenocarcinoma with an indeterminable origin among expert pathologists through a cognitive survey. Simultaneously, we analyzed a prospective collection of cases with an indeterminable primary tumor diagnosed from 2008 to 2018 to elucidate their clinicopathological features. All cases with pathological indeterminable primary tumors were reported and discussed in a clinicopathological conference to elucidate if it was possible to distinguish the primary tumor clinically and pathologically. From the cognitive survey, over 85% of the pathologists had experienced cases with indeterminable primary tumors; however, 70% of the cases was reported as pancreatic cancer without definitive grounds. Interpretation of the main tumor mass varied, and no standardized method was developed to determine the primary tumor. During a prospective study, 42 of the 392 periampullary carcinoma cases (10.7%) were considered as tumors with a pathological indeterminable origin. After the clinicopathological conferences, 21 (5.4%) remained indeterminable and were considered final indeterminable cases. Histological studies showed that the tumors spread along both the bile duct and main pancreatic duct; this was the most representative finding of the final indeterminable cases. This study is the first to elucidate and recognize the current clinicopathological features of periampullary region adenocarcinomas with an indeterminable origin. Adequate assessment of primary tumors in periampullary region carcinomas will help to optimize epidemiological data of pancreatic and bile duct cancer.
Inter‐Individual versus Inter‐Population Variability of Calendula suffruticosa subsp. algarbiensis Hexane Extracts
Authors: Ohse Silvana , Marques Mariza B. , Silveira Paulo C. , Válega Mónica S. G. A. , Granato Daniel , Silva Artur M. S. , Pinto Diana C. G. A.
Published: May 2021

Calendula suffruticosa subsp. algarbiensis (Boiss.) Nyman is very common on the Portuguese coast, but it has only recently begun to be studied chemically and belongs to a genus of difficult taxonomic classification. To improve the knowledge on the chemical variability of this taxon and evaluate the possible use of this tool for taxonomical purposes, the aim of this work was to determine the extent of chemical variation between individuals collected in the same geographic region, and to compare with samples mixing fragments of several individuals each (populations) from different local environments. Overall, hexane extract analysis by GC/MS allowed to identify 42 compounds, eight fatty acids, 24 terpenoids, three alcohols, five alkanes, and two pollutants. Greater chemical differences were found between individuals, grown in the same region, than were found between population samples from different regions. Additionally, 25 phytochemicals were identified for this taxon for the first time and may be used for taxonomic classification, even to distinguish between subspecies of C. suffruticosa. Furthermore, plants collected near urban areas accumulated pollutants, indicating the importance of controlling local environmental conditions when C. suffruticosa cultivation is for human consumption.
Enasidenib‐induced Sweet syndrome with differentiation syndrome
Authors: Mohamed Amr
Published: May 2021

Multiple conditions such as drug rash, thromboembolism, sepsis, and heart failure can mimic differentiation syndrome; therefore, maintaining a high index of suspicion is important, as the prognosis is usually good if adequately treated.
Warfarin‐related nephropathy: A case report of a delayed renal function improvement
Authors: Nonaka Eriko , Takashima Tsuyoshi , Matsumoto Keiichirou , Fukuda Makoto , Rikitake Shuichi , Miyazono Motoaki
Published: May 2021

We experienced a case in which improving the renal damage caused by warfarin‐related nephropathy took a long time. It is important to follow up for a long time after the initiation of dialysis due to warfarin‐related nephropathy.
Remission of a case of multiple Hymenoptera stings‐associated chronic urticaria during venom immunotherapy
Authors: Dubini Marco , Pravettoni Valerio , Rivolta Federica , Segatto Giulia , Asero Riccardo , Montano Nicola
Published: May 2021

Hymenoptera stings mostly cause acute urticaria but we describe a case of CU after wasp stings which remitted during venom immunotherapy. IgE‐mechanisms have not been fully clarified in CU, except for isolated circumstances. In our case immunotherapy has played a positive role reducing immune cells reactivity and improving urticaria symptoms.
Characterization and optimization of hydrothermal extraction of quercetin from Quercus leaves using response surface methodology
Authors: Shen Haoling , Zhang Jiaojiao , Guo Chensi , Gao Xiangyu , Chen Junying , Chang Chun , Han Xiuli , Wang Lijun
Published: May 2021

A hydrothermal process using subcritical water and ethanol as an extraction solvent has been studied to extract high‐value flavonoid compounds from Quercus leaves. The univariate analysis showed that the maximum quercetin yield was 34.6 mg/g obtained at the liquid–solid ratio of 30:1 ml/g, concentration of ethanol 60% (V/V), extraction temperature of 180°C, and extraction duration of 5 h. Based on the Box–Behnken experiment design, the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the liquid‐to‐solid ratio, extraction time, extraction temperature, ethanol concentration, and other operating conditions of hydrothermal extraction of quercetin. The regression equation showed that the maximum yield of quercetin was 36.1 mg/g under the conditions of solvent ethanol concentration of 65% (V/V), liquid–solid ratio of 40:1 ml/g, extraction temperature of 189°C, and extraction duration of 5.5 h. The quercetin yield of 36.1 mg/g obtained by the hydrothermal method was 5.6 times the 6.4 mg/g obtained by the traditional ethanol reflux extraction at the same concentration of ethanol 65% (V/V), liquid–solid ratio of 40:1 ml/g, and extraction duration of 5.5 h, but at the boiling point of the solvent.
Biomechanical modelling of cancer: Agent‐based force‐based models of solid tumours within the context of the tumour microenvironment
Authors: Macnamara Cicely K.
Published: May 2021

Once cancer is initiated, with normal cells mutated into malignant ones, a solid tumour grows, develops and spreads within its microenvironment invading the local tissue; the disease progresses and the cancer cells migrate around the body leading to metastasis, the formation of distant secondary tumours. Interactions between the tumour and its microenvironment drive this cascade of events which have devastating, if not fatal, consequences for the human host/patient. Among these interactions, biomechanical interactions are a vital component. In this review paper, key biomechanical relationships are discussed through a presentation of modelling efforts by the mathematical and computational oncology community. The main focus is directed, naturally, towards lattice‐free agent‐based, force‐based models of solid tumour growth and development. In such models, interactions between pairs of cancer cells (as well as between cells and other structures of the tumour microenvironment) are governed by forces. These forces are ones of repulsion and adhesion, and are typically modelled via either an extended Hertz model of contact mechanics or using Johnson–Kendal–Roberts theory, both of which are discussed here. The role of the extracellular matrix in determining disease progression is outlined along with important cell‐vessel interactions which combined together account for a great proportion of Hanahan and Weinberg's Hallmarks of Cancer.
A survey of smartphone and interactive video technology use by participants in Alzheimer's disease research: Implications for remote cognitive assessment
Authors: Jacobs Diane M. , Peavy Guerry M. , Banks Sarah J. , Gigliotti Christina , Little Emily A. , Salmon David P.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Participants from a longitudinal cohort study were surveyed to evaluate the practical feasibility of remote cognitive assessment.

Methods

All active participants/informants at the University of California San Diego Alzheimer's Disease Research Center were invited to complete a nine‐question survey assessing technology access/use and willingness to do cognitive testing remotely.

Results

Three hundred sixty‐nine of 450 potential participants/informants (82%) completed the survey. Overall, internet access (88%), device ownership (77%), and willingness to do cognitive testing remotely (72%) were high. Device access was higher among those with normal cognition (85%) or cognitive impairment (85%) than those with dementia (52%), as was willingness to do remote cognitive testing (84%, 74%, 39%, respectively). Latinos were less likely than non‐Latinos to have internet or device access but were comparable in willingness to do remote testing.

Discussion

Remote cognitive assessment using interactive video technology is a practicable option for nondemented participants in longitudinal studies; however, additional resources will be required to ensure representative participation of Latinos.
Make choices that enable creativity, happiness despite disruption
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2021

When kids are three or four, everything in their life is a celebration, said Joel Zeff, President of Joel Zeff Creative and author of Make the Right Choice: Creating a Positive, Innovative, and Productive Work Life. He was a keynote speaker at the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers annual conference. Celebrating their “ta‐da” moments fuels their confidence and interest in taking risk, he added.
Gene transcripts expressed in equine white blood cells are potential biomarkers of extracorporeal shock wave therapy
Authors: Jiang Zibin , Chen Jin‐Wen , Haughan Joanne , Stefanovski Darko , Soma Lawrence R. , Robinson Mary A.
Published: May 2021

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a treatment applied to musculoskeletal injuries in equine athletes to alleviate pain and accelerate healing. ESWT also causes acute tissue damage. Therefore, its ability to act as an analgesic and cause tissue damage potentially increases the risk of a catastrophic event if used shortly before a strenuous competition such as horseracing. While ESWT is prohibited by many racing jurisdictions within 10 days prior to competition, a test to detect whether a horse has received ESWT is needed. ESWT changes the protein levels of inflammatory mediators in blood, and white blood cells (WBC) typically produce these proteins. Changes in gene expression precede changes in protein production; thus, it was hypothesized that WBC gene transcripts might serve as biomarkers of ESWT. To test this hypothesis, six thoroughbred horses received a single administration of ESWT to the distal limb, and WBC RNA was extracted from blood samples collected before (0 h) and after ESWT (2, 4, 6, 24, 48, and 72 h). Targeted and untargeted analyses evaluated the transcriptome using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and microarray. The expression of IL‐1α, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, IL‐1Ra1, IL‐1Ra2 and TGF‐β1, and BMPR1A in circulating WBCs was significantly up‐regulated, while IFN‐γ, ZNF483, TMEM80, CAH6, ENPP, and S8723 were significantly down‐regulated at various time points following ESWT. These data support the hypothesis that changes in WBC gene transcripts could serve as biomarkers for ESWT.
There is only one winner: The negative impact of red deer density on roe deer numbers and distribution in the Słowiński National Park and its vicinity
Authors: Borkowski Jakub , Banul Rafał , Jurkiewicz‐Azab Jolanta , Hołdyński Czesław , Święczkowska Justyna , Nasiadko Maciej , Załuski Dariusz
Published: May 2021

Red and roe deer are the most numerous cervids in Europe, and they occur in sympatry in most regions. Roe deer were considered to be an inferior competitor in studies in which they co‐occurred with fallow deer or muntjac. Despite the remarkable overlap of their ranges, there are few studies on the competition between the red and roe deer. Since interspecific interactions among ungulates are often related to their mutual densities, the current study focused on the effects of high red deer density on the roe deer numbers and spatial distribution in the unhunted Słowiński National Park (SNP) in northern Poland and forest districts open to hunting bordering the park. Using fecal pellet group counts, it was found that in the forest districts (where red deer densities were 2–3 times lower than in the SNP), roe deer densities were significantly higher than in the park. The red‐to‐roe deer density ratio was 10.8 and 2.7, in the SNP and the surrounding forest districts, respectively. Moreover, in the SNP, the roe deer distribution was negatively affected by the red deer habitat use, while in the hunting areas, such an effect was not recorded. The negative influence of the red deer on the roe deer population in the park was most probably due to the red deer impact on food availability. The biomass of the plant groups forming the staple food of the roe deer (Rubus spp., forbs, dwarf shrubs) was significantly higher in the fenced plots than in the unfenced ones. Lack of hunting in the protected areas may benefit only some species in ungulate assemblages which, in turn, may contradict one of their objectives—to maintain viable and ecologically functional populations.
Corrosion inhibition effect of Cycas revoluta leaves extract on corrosion of soft‐cast steel in hydrochloric acid medium
Authors: Rathod Manohar R. , Rajappa S. K.
Published: May 2021

The inhibition action of environmentally sustainable inhibitor Cycas revoluta leaves extract (CRLE) for corrosion protection of soft‐cast steel in a solution of HCl was assessed with electrochemical and chemical methods. The eco‐friendly inhibitor forms a thin coating on soft‐cast steel and slows the corrosion in acid media. The percent inhibition performance, corrosion current density, corrosion potential, and both anodic and cathodic slopes for Tafel were calculated. The results for electrochemical and chemical research are in beneficial correlation with each other. The inhibitor's inhibitory ability was well illustrated by the CRLE adsorption on soft‐cast steel followed the Langmuir isotherm. The investigations reveal that CRLE is a mixed form of inhibitor. Studies were performed with varying inhibitor amounts and temperatures. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated, and it shows that the corrosion inhibition effect is spontaneous and exothermic. The interaction of the plant extract was characterized by SEM, FTIR, contact angle measurements, and AFM techniques.
Conversion efficiency of bioethanol from levoglucosan was improved by the newly engineered Escherichia coli
Authors: Chang Dongdong , Islam Zia Ul , Yang Zhiguang , Thompson Ian P. , Yu Zhisheng
Published: May 2021

Bioethanol produced from waste lignocellulosic biomass is a promising renewable fuel in environmental and sustainable views. The thermochemical process that can readily decompose lignocellulosic biomass to carbohydrate‐rich bio‐oil is more appealing compared to biochemical process due to its low costs and less time. However, levoglucosan, the dominant carbohydrate present in the bio‐oil, is problematic to be efficiently converted to bioethanol by native and recombinant microorganisms. Here, a synthetic metabolic pathway based on the heterologous genes encoding levoglucosan kinase, pyruvate decarboxylase, and alcohol dehydrogenase, was constructed and introduced into Escherichia coli to generate new platforms for ethanol production from levoglucosan. The engineered E. coli strains overexpressing levoglucosan kinase could, for the first time, completely consume 1–2% (wt/vol) levoglucosan present in the minimal media to produce ethanol with relatively high yield; while E. coli LGE2 exhibited the maximal ethanol yield of 0.43 g/g levoglucosan, rising by ~23% compared to the only existing recombinant strain E. coli KO11 + lgk. Although levoglucosan utilization was inferior to the utilization of other substrates like fructose and complex media, our results suggest that desired high‐yield bioethanol production from levoglucosan‐based minimal media could be efficiently achieved by the newly engineered strains, which could provide a solution for complete bioethanol fermentation from the thermochemically decomposed biomass feedstock.
High Levels of Legacy and Emerging Contaminants in Killer Whales (Orcinus orca) from Norway, 2015 to 2017
Authors: Andvik Clare , Jourdain Eve , Lyche Jan L. , Karoliussen Richard , Borgå Katrine
Published: May 2021

Little is known of the movement or presence of unregulated, emerging contaminants in top predators. The aim of the present study was to conduct the first screening of legacy and emerging contaminants in multiple tissues of killer whales (Orcinus orca) from Norway and investigate tissue partitioning and maternal transfer. Blubber was collected from 8 killer whales in 2015 to 2017, in addition to muscle from 5 of the individuals, and kidney, liver, heart, and spleen from a neonate. We screened for 4 unregulated brominated flame retardants and found pentabromotoluene (PBT) and hexabromobenzene (HBB) at low levels in the blubber of all individuals (median PBT 0.091 ng/g lipid wt, median HBB 1.4 ng/g lipid wt). Levels of PBT and HBB (wet wt) were twice as high in the blubber than the muscle for each individual, confirming preferential accumulation in lipid-rich tissues. Perfluoroalkyl substances and total mercury levels were lower in the neonate than adults, suggesting less efficient maternal transfer of these substances. Polychlorinated biphenyl levels in blubber exceeded the threshold for onset of physiological effects (9 µg/g lipid wt) in 7 of the 8 whales, including the neonate. The presence of PBT and HBB in the neonate is the first evidence of maternal transfer of these unregulated contaminants in marine mammals. Our results are relevant for the continued environmental monitoring of contaminants in the Arctic. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1848–1858. © 2021 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.

Abstract

A range of legacy and emerging contaminants were found in 8 killer whales (Orcinus orca) stranded or by-caught along the coast of Norway, including in a 10-d-old nursing neonate. PFAS = perfluoroalkyl substances; PCB = polychlorinated biphenyl; PBT = pentabromotoluene; HBB = hexabromobenzene.
Methylmercury Measurements in Dried Blood Spots from Electronic Waste Workers Sampled from Agbogbloshie, Ghana
Authors: Santa Rios Andrea , Fobil Julius , Basu Niladri
Published: May 2021

Biomonitoring methylmercury (MeHg) exposure is problematic in resource-limited settings and with difficult-to-access populations where traditional biomarker approaches present logistical, economic, and ethical issues. The present study aimed to validate the use of dried blood spots (DBS) to assess MeHg exposure in a real-world contaminated field setting. Whole-blood and DBS samples were collected from electronic waste workers (n = 20) from Agbogbloshie (Ghana) in 2017, and DBS were also artificially created in the laboratory using the field-collected blood. Whole-blood MeHg concentrations averaged 0.84 µg/L, which was not different from levels measured in the corresponding DBS samples (field-collected or artificially created). Whole-blood MeHg comprised 61% of the blood total Hg concentrations. Linear regression analysis revealed no differences in MeHg concentrations between whole-blood samples and field-collected DBS (slope 0.89, R2 = 0.94) and between field and laboratory DBS (slope 0.89, R2 = 0.96). The MeHg content in DBS punch blanks averaged 0.86 pg and thus was not of concern. These findings indicate that DBS are a suitable tool for assessing MeHg exposure in real-world environmental settings that may be heavily contaminated.  Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2183–2188. © 2021 SETAC
Functional impairment‐based segmentation of anterior cingulate cortex in depression and its relationship with treatment effects
Authors: Zhang Yujie , Shao Junneng , Wang Xinyi , Chen Zhilu , Liu Haiyan , Pei Cong , Zhang Shuqiang , Yao Zhijian , Lu Qing
Published: May 2021

In major depressive disorder (MDD), the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is widely related to depression impairment and antidepressant treatment response. The multiplicity of ACC subdivisions calls for a fine‐grained investigation of their functional impairment and recovery profiles. We recorded resting state fMRI signals from 59 MDD patients twice before and after 12‐week antidepressant treatment, as well as 59 healthy controls (HCs). With functional connectivity (FC) between each ACC voxel and four regions of interests (bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [DLPFC] and amygdalae), subdivisions with variable impairment were identified based on groups' dissimilarity values between MDD patients before treatment and HC. The ACC was subdivided into three impairment subdivisions named as MedialACC, DistalACC, and LateralACC according to their dominant locations. Furthermore, the impairment pattern and the recovery pattern were measured based on group statistical analyses. DistalACC impaired more on its FC with left DLPFC, whereas LateralACC showed more serious impairment on its FC with bilateral amygdalae. After treatment, FCs between DistalACC and left DLPFC, and between LateralACC and right amygdala were normalized while impaired FC between LateralACC and left amygdala kept dysfunctional. Subsequently, FC between DistalACC and left DLPFC might contribute to clinical outcome prediction. Our approach could provide an insight into how the ACC was impaired in depression and partly restored after antidepressant treatment, from the perspective of the interaction between ACC subregions and critical frontal and subcortical regions.
Maternal Early‐Pregnancy Glucose Concentrations and Liver Fat Among School‐Age Children
Authors: Geurtsen Madelon L. , Wahab Rama J. , Felix Janine F. , Gaillard Romy , Jaddoe Vincent W.V.
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

Gestational diabetes seems to be associated with offspring NAFLD. We hypothesized that maternal glucose concentrations across the full range may have persistent effects on offspring liver fat accumulation.

Approach and Results

In a multiethnic, population‐based, prospective cohort study among 2,168 women and their offspring, maternal early‐pregnancy glucose concentrations were measured at a median of 13.1 weeks’ gestation (95% CI, 9.6‐17.2). Liver fat fraction was measured at 10 years by MRI. NAFLD was defined as liver fat fraction ≥5.0%. We performed analyses among all mothers with different ethnic backgrounds and those of European ancestry only. The multiethnic group had a median maternal early‐pregnancy glucose concentration of 4.3 mmol/L (interquartile range, 3.9‐4.9) and a 2.8% (n = 60) prevalence of NAFLD. The models adjusted for child age and sex only showed that in the multiethnic group, higher maternal early‐pregnancy glucose concentrations were associated with higher liver fat accumulation and higher odds of NAFLD, but these associations attenuated into nonsignificance after adjustment for potential confounders. Among mothers of European ancestry only, maternal early‐pregnancy glucose concentrations were associated with increased odds of NAFLD (OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.32; 2.88, after adjustment for confounders) per 1‐mmol/L increase in maternal early‐pregnancy glucose concentration. These associations were not explained by maternal prepregnancy and childhood body mass index, visceral fat, and metabolic markers.

Conclusions

In this study, maternal early‐pregnancy glucose concentrations were only among mothers of European ancestry associated with offspring NAFLD. The associations of higher maternal early‐pregnancy glucose concentrations with offspring NAFLD may differ between ethnic groups.
Micropolar nanoliquid flow via mixed convective over an orthogonal cylinder
Authors: EL‐Zahar Essam R. , Mansour Mohamed. A. , Rashad A. M. , EL‐Mky Hamed A. , EL‐Hakiem Amal. M. A.
Published: May 2021

The intent of the current investigation is to explore the axisymmetric flow of the micropolar nanoliquid past an orthogonal cylinder in the existence of mixed convection impact. Suitable similitude changes produce joined nonlinear differential schemes, which were explicated via fourth‐order finite difference style. The authenticity of the results was emphasized by contrasting them with previous results with some limited presumptions and uncovered to be in excellent agreement. Performance of numerous physical parameters on velocity components and temperature distributions alongside the physical quantities of interests were revealed graphically and in tabular forms. It was shown that the skin friction and heat transport rate boost with rising in the volume fraction nanoparticle and the buoyancy, while they decline with the increase of micropolar parameter. This investigation intends to improve on an intuitive understanding of similar patterns by confirming the physical debates and may be applicable in the field of biomechanics, polymer processing, production of aerosol deposition, and thermal treatment.
Activation of the cGAS–STING signaling pathway in adenomyosis patients
Authors: Lin Yun , Wang Luying , Ye Mingzhu , Yu Ke‐nan , Sun Xin , Xue Min , Deng Xinliang
Published: May 2021

Objective

Adenomyosis is characterized by the presence of endometrium or endometrium‐like glands and stroma within the myometrium. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the cGAS–STING pathway was activated and correlated with clinical outcomes in adenomyosis patients.

Materials and Methods

Twenty patients diagnosed with adenomyosis and 10 patients diagnosed with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN‐3) but no adenomyosis were enrolled in this study. Specimens were collected during surgery from August 2017 to December 2017 at Third Xiangya Hospital. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels of key cGAS–STING pathway factors in uterine tissue were detected by real‐time reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The correlations of gene expression and clinical outcomes, including dysmenorrhea and uterine volume, were analyzed.

Results

The cGAS, STING, TANK‐binding kinase 1 (TBK‐1), interferon‐α (IFN‐α), IFN‐β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) mRNA and protein levels in the ectopic endometrial tissue from adenomyosis patients were significantly higher compared with that from the controls in endometrium (p < .05). cGAS and STING gene expression were correlated with TBK‐1, IFN‐β, and TNF‐α expression (p < .05). Importantly, TBK‐1 and TNF‐α expression were correlated with the clinical outcome of dysmenorrhea (p < .05).

Conclusion

Our study reveals that the cGAS–STING pathway is activated in adenomyosis patients and its activation is subsequently correlated with clinical outcomes, which suggests that the cGAS–STING pathway may contribute to adenomyosis pathogenesis.
Feasibility of dual‐contrast fluorescence imaging of pathological breast tissues
Authors: Mitrou Androniki , Feng Xin , Khan Ashraf , Yaroslavsky Anna N.
Published: May 2021

The combination of intravital dye, methylene blue (MB), with molecular cancer marker, pH low insertion peptide (pHLIP) conjugated with fluorescent Alexa532 (Alexa532‐pHLIP), was evaluated for enhancing contrast of pathological breast tissue ex vivo. Fresh, thick breast specimens were stained sequentially with Alexa532‐pHLIP and aqueous MB and imaged using dual‐channel fluorescence microscopy. MB and Alexa532‐pHLIP accumulated in the nuclei and cytoplasm of cancer cells, respectively. MB also stained nuclei of normal cells. Some Alexa532‐pHLIP fluorescence emission was detected from connective tissue and benign cell membranes. Overall, Alexa532‐pHLIP showed high affinity to cancer, while MB highlighted tissue morphology. The results indicate that MB and Alexa532‐pHLIP provide complementary information and show promise for the detection of breast cancer.