bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oligodendrocytes and myelin: Active players in neurodegenerative brains?
Authors: Chen Jing‐Fei , Wang Fei , Huang Nan‐Xing , Xiao Lan , Mei Feng
Published: January 2022

Oligodendrocytes (OLs) are a major type of glial cells in the central nervous system that generate multiple myelin sheaths to wrap axons. Myelin ensures fast and efficient propagation of action potentials along axons and supports neurons with nourishment. The decay of OLs and myelin has been implicated in age‐related neurodegenerative diseases and these changes are generally considered as an inevitable result of neuron loss and axon degeneration. Noticeably, OLs and myelin undergo dynamic changes in healthy adult brains, that is, newly formed OLs are continuously added throughout life from the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) and the pre‐existing myelin sheaths may undergo degeneration or remodeling. Increasing evidence has shown that changes in OLs and myelin are present in the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases, and even prior to significant neuronal loss and functional deficits. More importantly, oligodendroglia‐specific manipulation, by either deletion of the disease gene or enhancement of myelin renewal, can alleviate functional impairments in neurodegenerative animal models. These findings underscore the possibility that OLs and myelin are not passively but actively involved in neurodegenerative diseases and may play an important role in modulating neuronal function and survival. In this review, we summarize recent work characterizing by OLs and myelin changes in both healthy and neurodegenerative brains and discuss the potential of targeting oligodendroglial cells in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
P is for persistence: Soil phosphorus remains elevated for more than a decade after old field restoration
Authors: Parkhurst Tina , Standish Rachel J. , Prober Suzanne M.
Published: January 2022

Understanding constraints to ecological restoration on former agricultural land has become increasingly important due to agricultural land degradation in the developed world, and growing evidence for enduring agricultural legacies that limit native species recovery. In particular, the removal of native plant biomass and subsequent disturbance of soil properties through farming activities can alter soil ecosystem processes. Planting of native plant species is a common approach to restoring native vegetation on agricultural land and is assumed to benefit soil ecosystem processes, but the degree to which altered soil chemical processes recover is poorly documented. We investigated recovery of soil chemical properties after restoration in semiarid Western Australia, hypothesizing that elevated nutrient concentrations would gradually decline post planting, but available phosphorus (P) concentrations would remain higher than reference conditions. We used a space‐for‐time substitution approach, comparing 10 planted old field plots with matched fallow cropland and reference woodlands. Sampling on planted old fields and reference woodland plots was stratified into open patches and under tree canopy to account for consistent differences between these areas. The most prominent legacy of cropping was significantly and substantially higher concentrations of soil available P in fallow croplands and restored old fields compared with reference woodlands. Soil mineral nitrogen (N) concentrations were elevated in fallow croplands compared to open patches in reference woodlands (ammonium and nitrate) and under the tree canopy (ammonium). However, in restored old fields, mineral N concentrations were similar to woodland sites, providing evidence for amelioration over time. No significant differences in nutrient concentrations under tree canopies compared with open patches had developed in the planted old fields, despite a distinction between open patches and he under ttree canopy in reference woodlands for total N. We conclude that soil P legacies in old fields may inhibit the recolonization of native species that are sensitive to, or uncompetitive at, elevated P concentrations. To achieve full recovery, further research is required to test restoration practices aimed at reducing soil P concentrations to facilitate native plant establishment and persistence.
Patterns of thermal adaptation in a globally distributed plant pathogen: Local diversity and plasticity reveal two‐tier dynamics
Authors: Boixel Anne‐Lise , Chelle Michaël , Suffert Frédéric
Published: January 2022

Plant pathogen populations inhabit patchy environments with contrasting, variable thermal conditions. We investigated the diversity of thermal responses in populations sampled over contrasting spatiotemporal scales, to improve our understanding of their dynamics of adaptation to local conditions. Samples of natural populations of the wheat pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici were collected from sites within the Euro‐Mediterranean region subject to a broad range of climatic conditions. We tested for local adaptation, by accounting for the diversity of responses at the individual and population levels on the basis of key thermal performance curve parameters and “thermotype” (groups of individuals with similar thermal responses) composition. The characterization of phenotypic responses and genotypic structure revealed the following: (i) a high degree of individual plasticity and variation in sensitivity to temperature conditions across spatiotemporal scales and populations; and (ii) geographic variation in thermal response among populations, with major alterations due to seasonal patterns over the wheat‐growing season. The seasonal shifts in functional composition suggest that populations are locally structured by selection, contributing to adaptation patterns. Further studies combining selection experiments and modeling are required to determine how functional group selection drives population dynamics and adaptive potential in response to thermal heterogeneity.
CYP1A expression in freshwater fish of western New York as an indicator of pollution levels
Authors: Williams Rebecca , Taggart Theresa , Ganger Kayla , Koetsier Teri , Johnson Seema , Dinchman Amber
Published: January 2022

Various species of freshwater fish regulate the expression of certain proteins in response to environmental contamination. Previous research has shown that CYP1A expression increases in response to contaminant levels and can result in increased tumor formation. Fish in contaminated environments would thus benefit by downregulating the expression of CYP1A to reduce tumor prevalence as an adaptive strategy. Alternatively, monitoring of the CYP1A protein in fish can serve as a bioindicator of the pollution level of an environment. This study evaluated CYP1A expression in twelve different species of freshwater fish from seven bodies of water throughout western NY including Cuba Lake, Genesee River, Hanging Bog, Love Canal, Moss Lake, Rushford Lake, and Tifft Nature Preserve. Western blot analysis was used to measure CYP1A expression as a marker of site pollution and potential fish population adaptation. It was hypothesized that low CYP1A expression at a site with known contamination would suggest signs of adaptation to pollution levels present. Furthermore, if at least one sample from a species showed CYP1A expression, then the CYP1A antibody (Caymen Chemical, USA; 173132) had compatibility with that species, eliminating falsely suspected adaptation. The results from this study suggest possible adaptation of fish may be occurring in the polluted Tifft Nature Preserve and Genesee River. In contrast, CYP1A expression in fish from Cuba Lake, Hanging Bog, Love Canal, Moss Lake, and Rushford Lake appear to represent known pollution levels and adaptation is not likely occurring. Results from this study are preliminary and next steps include collection and analysis of sediment to provide a stronger correlation between pollution at sites and CYP1A expression.
Warmer and wetter climate promotes net primary production in C4 grassland with additional enhancement by hay harvesting
Authors: Jung Chang Gyo , Xu Xia , Shi Zheng , Niu Shuli , Xia Jianyang , Sherry Rebecca , Jiang Lifen , Zhu Kai , Hou Enqing , Luo Yiqi
Published: January 2022

Grassland ecosystems provide essential services to society. To maintain ecosystem functions and services of grasslands under changing environments, it is critical to understand how grasslands respond and feedback to climate change. Here, we present results from a long‐term (16 years) warming and clipping (to mimic hay harvesting or grazing) experiment conducted in a grassland ecosystem dominated by C4 grasses in the Great Plains, USA. We analyzed responses of net primary production (NPP), aboveground NPP (ANPP), and belowground NPP (BNPP) to the expanded ranges of climate conditions observed in the experiment. NPP, ANPP, and BNPP all responded to the climatic variables nonlinearly, with higher degrees of nonlinearity for BNPP than that for ANPP. BNPP peaked at the optimum air temperature of 17.5–18.5°C while ANPP peaked at the optimum air temperature of 18.5–20.0°C. The optimum air temperatures for both ANPP and BNPP were higher than mean annual temperature (16.3°C) at the site. The optimum precipitation for BNPP was intermediate levels (775–1250 mm) while ANPP was maximized in wetter conditions (1250–1605 mm) compared with BNPP. Clipping significantly reduced ANPP and shifted the optimum conditions for BNPP to warmer and wetter conditions. In summary, C4‐grass dominant ecosystems have the potential to increase NPP in future warmer and wetter conditions, and clipping may amplify this positive effect in this grassland ecosystem.
Biomass allocation in response to salinity and competition in native and invasive species
Authors: Tang Long , Zhou Qing Shi , Gao Yang , Li Peng
Published: January 2022

Biomass allocation to different plant parts affects the subsequent capture rate of resources and reproduction. Thus, many studies have been conducted on the biomass allocation to learn growth, reproduction, and competitive ability of plants. However, few researchers have explored how biomass allocation responses to nonresource factor and interspecific competition over time. We experimentally investigated the effects of soil salinity and competition on root : shoot ratio (RS), reproductive effort (RE; seed biomass : total biomass ratio), the relationship between belowground and aboveground biomass, the relationship between reproductive and vegetative biomass, growth, and reproduction of invasive Spartina alterniflora and native Phragmites australis. The biomass of P. australis decreased with increasing salinity, whereas that of S. alterniflora did not significantly change. The reproduction of P. australis decreased with increasing salinity under competitive conditions, and that of S. alterniflora increased. Therefore, P. australis was less‐tolerant, and S. alterniflora was more‐tolerant. The RS of P. australis increased over time under competitive conditions and with increasing salinity, and that of S. alterniflora did not significantly change. The RE of P. australis decreased to zero with decreasing total biomass, and that of S. alterniflora did not significantly correlate with total biomass. Both species exhibited a linear relationship between belowground and aboveground biomass. The relationship between reproductive and vegetative biomass in P. australis was linear, and the reproductive biomass of S. alterniflora did not significantly correlate with the vegetative biomass. Competitive dominance shifted from P. australis to S. alterniflora with increasing salinity. The findings demonstrated that the plastic biomass allocation of less‐tolerant species facilitates performance of less‐tolerant species in favorable environments, while the fixed biomass allocation of more‐tolerant species facilitates performance of more‐tolerant species in stressful environments, suggesting that S. alterniflora invasion driven by competitive exclusion probably occur in high salinity zones, and reproductive ability of invasive species should be relatively stronger during exclusion. More broadly, linking level of environmental stresses with tolerance of plants is crucial to understanding and predicting the biomass allocation and its effects on plant performance, which is an expansion of predictions from optimal theory and allometric theory and therefore illustrates the conditionality of these predictions.
Modeling the effect of rockfall on forest development in a dynamic forest landscape model
Authors: Moos Christine , Lischke Heike
Published: January 2022

Mountain forests below rocky cliffs are regularly impacted by falling blocks. Rockfall thus increases tree mortality and can locally alter the forest structure. At the same time, trees can decelerate or stop falling blocks and play an important role in protecting settlements and infrastructure from rockfall impacts. Furthermore, trees in the upper part of a slope protect trees further downslope. Considering the interaction between forest dynamics and rockfall disturbance in dynamic forest models is necessary to accurately predict the development of rockfall protection forests in the long term. In this study, we integrated the disturbing effect of rockfall on trees in the dynamic forest landscape model TreeMig through a coupling with three‐dimensional rockfall simulations and analyzed the rockfall‐forest feedback over time. We introduced an additional mortality per cell, based on the probability and severity of rockfall disturbance derived from rockfall simulations. We implemented the potential feedback effect between rockfall disturbance and forest development using a meta‐model of the rockfall simulations and analyzed the sensitivity of forest development to varying disturbances for a case study in the Swiss Alps. With increasing disturbance, the total biomass of the forest decreased, whereby differences were relatively small at the scale of the forest complex, but more pronounced at local (cell) scale. Generally, the comparison to light detection and ranging (LiDAR)‐derived forest data showed a better agreement between the modeled forest and reality when considering the rockfall disturbing effect. The coupled simulations further revealed a positive feedback effect of rockfall disturbance and forest development. Disturbance probability and severity clearly decreased with advancing forest growth, which, however, lead to an overestimated recolonization of the disturbed areas. Still, the rockfall disturbance module clearly improved the simulations of a rockfall protection forest with TreeMig. Future improvement of the model should include a better representation of soil formation and water availability in the disturbed areas and the consideration of long‐term effects of the rockfall disturbances, such as pests and diseases. The consideration of the rockfall disturbance in forest modeling is particularly relevant for small‐scale studies requiring a detailed representation of spatial differences in forest cover, as this is the case in protection forest management.
Make visible the invisible: Optimized development of an environmental DNA metabarcoding tool for the characterization of trematode parasitic communities
Authors: Douchet Philippe , Boissier Jérôme , Mulero Stephen , Ferté Hubert , Doberva Margot , Allienne Jean‐François , Toulza Eve , Bethune Kévin , Rey Olivier
Published: January 2022

The world's parasitic and mutualistic biodiversity is undergoing major upheavals related to modifications in host community structures, changes in interactions between species, and through coextinction events. Trematodes are an important component of this invisible biodiversity, in terms of species richness, but also because of their role in ecosystems functioning and in the emergence of associated diseases. Taken together, these elements point to the need for a better assessment and understanding of the structure and dynamics of trematode diversity. In this context, our aim was to develop an optimized eDNA‐based metabarcoding approach to detect trematodes and characterize their communities, most of which associated with aquatic environments. The efficiency of this newly developed tool was first assessed by exhaustive in‐silico and in‐vitro validation steps. We next assessed the ability of our eDNA‐based approach to reconstruct trematode communities compared to a classical trematode monitoring method over four freshwater aquatic ecosystems. Our eDNA‐based monitoring tool displayed a high amplification enrichment of trematode DNA, a 100% detection score for tracking back an in‐vitro mock community composed of 28 trematode species, and high genetic resolution, which makes it relevant to discriminate between even phylogenetically close trematode species. Over the four natural ecosystems screened in natura, 33 OTUs were generated from the eDNA‐based approach, from which 11 trematode species were identified. In comparison, we identified five trematode species using the classical monitoring method, three of which were also detected by the eDNA‐based approach. We believe that this new eDNA‐based metabarcoding tool will open new perspectives for fundamental and applied research in community ecology, conservation, and health survey.
Third Time is a Charm – Protonating Tricarboxybenzenes
Authors: Nitzer Alexander , Regnat Martin , Jessen Christoph , Kornath Andreas J.
Published: January 2022

Triprotonation of the three constitution isomers of tricarboxybenzene was accomplished. Furthermore, the preparation of selected mono‐ and dications showed the sequence of protonation steps. The cations were mostly isolated as [SbF6] and [AsF6] species, which were characterized by Raman and NMR spectroscopy as well as X‐ray structure determination. To further elucidate the experimental results, quantum chemical calculations are employed, especially in regard to charge distribution with NPA charges and aromaticity by NICS(0) values. Thermal decomposition of the compounds was investigated in order to explore the possibility of acyl cation formation. The influence of the aromatic system, substitution pattern and anomeric effect concerning the properties of the respective compounds was thus explained.
Increasing the efficiency of liquefied natural gas production plant with considering appropriate refrigerant components
Authors: Bozorgkhou Nastaran , Pirouzfar Vahid , Su Chia‐Hung
Published: January 2022

In liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, the total efficiency of the system increased by using mixed refrigerants for the liquefaction process. In this study, the mixing of the effective refrigerants is considered as one of the most important factors in the optimization of liquefaction process of natural gas. In this regard, three mixed refrigerants with different compositions and conditions were selected. The refrigerants were selected based on optimization of power and electrical efficiency, overall thermal efficiency, heat exchanged with refrigeration cycle, and mass flow rate of Refrigerants in cycle. The optimized chemical process with related energy integrations were simulated and evaluated by Aspen HYSYS and Aspen energy analyzer (HX‐Net), respectively. Furthermore, the Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (Icarus) was employed for the economic analysis of these processes. The investment and operating costs of the optimized process (in the process with considering the MR3 refrigerant) are less than other processes. The calculated capital, operating, and equipment costs are about 22.6, 20.1, and 10.3 million US Dollars in the process with MR3 refrigerant. The mixed refrigerant 3 (MR3) contains the CH4, C2H6, C3H8, and N2with the mole fraction of 0.1316, 0.1317, 0.0299, and 0.7098, respectively. Modeling and cost estimation techniques can be used as a useful tool for the design and optimization of appropriate gas liquefaction and refrigeration processes with an effective performance for various industrial applications.
Analysis of rural household food and non‐food poverty status in Ethiopia: The Case Study from Meskan District
Authors: Kassahun Teshome , Tessema Ayele , Adbib Kebede
Published: January 2022

Poverty is the lack of ability to reach the least possible level of standard of living. Both food and non‐food poverty remain the foremost concern in many developing countries in general and Ethiopia in particular. The proportions of rural households living below poverty line in Ethiopia have been increasing over the past decades. The causes of poverty are enormous and multifaceted. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine the status and determinants of poverty among rural households in Meskan District. Cross‐sectional survey data were collected from 360 rural households randomly. The costs of basic needs approach, Foster, Greer, and Thorbecke methods (FGT index), and logit model were used to determine poverty line and identify determinants of poverty status among rural households, respectively. Moreover, for the analysis of the data, the respective statistical and econometric tests were employed. The findings show that poverty line/absolute poverty status was found about birr 6305 per year per adult equivalent consumption in District. Besides, the annual mean food and non‐food consumption expenditure poverty lines were birr 4157.7 and birr 2147.6 per year, respectively. The incidence, depth, and severity of poverty measures and its status were found to be 0.333, 0.051, and 0.013 values, while compared poverty measures and its status with national poverty incidence status; there was highest poverty incidence among rural households due to low human, physical, financial, and natural capitals as well as weak institutional arrangements. Logit model result similarly shows that factors affecting poverty level among rural households are highly associated with age of households, dependency ratio, marital status of household, education level household, farm size, distance from nearest market, access to food aid, oxen and livestock possession in study District. Our results suggest that the poverty reduction plans and policies should target specific localities and households livelihood situations because poverty by its nature is individual concentrated rather than aggregate national as whole.
Approaches and determinants to sustainably improve crop production
Authors: Gojon Alain , Nussaume Laurent , Luu Doan T. , Murchie Erik H. , Baekelandt Alexandra , Rodrigues Saltenis Vandasue Lily , Cohan Jean‐Pierre , Desnos Thierry , Inzé Dirk , Ferguson John N. , Guiderdonni Emmanuel , Krapp Anne , Klein Lankhorst René , Maurel Christophe , Rouached Hatem , Parry Martin A. J. , Pribil Mathias , Scharff Lars B. , Nacry Philippe
Published: January 2022

Plant scientists and farmers are facing major challenges in providing food and nutritional security for a growing population, while preserving natural resources and biodiversity. Moreover, this should be done while adapting agriculture to climate change and by reducing its carbon footprint. To address these challenges, there is an urgent need to breed crops that are more resilient to suboptimal environments. Huge progress has recently been made in understanding the physiological, genetic and molecular bases of plant nutrition and environmental responses, paving the way towards a more sustainable agriculture. In this review, we present an overview of these progresses and strategies that could be developed to increase plant nutrient use efficiency and tolerance to abiotic stresses. As illustrated by many examples, they already led to promising achievements and crop improvements. Here, we focus on nitrogen and phosphate uptake and use efficiency and on adaptation to drought, salinity and heat stress. These examples first show the necessity of deepening our physiological and molecular understanding of plant environmental responses. In particular, more attention should be paid to investigate stress combinations and stress recovery and acclimation that have been largely neglected to date. It will be necessary to extend these approaches from model plants to crops, to unravel the relevant molecular targets of biotechnological or genetic strategies directly in these species. Similarly, sustained efforts should be done for further exploring the genetic resources available in these species, as well as in wild species adapted to unfavourable environments. Finally, technological developments will be required to breed crops that are more resilient and efficient. This especially relates to the development of multiscale phenotyping under field conditions and a wide range of environments, and use of modelling and big data management to handle the huge amount of information provided by the new molecular, genetic and phenotyping techniques.
Antioxidant activity of banana flesh and antiproliferative effect on breast and pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Kim Dae Kyeong , Ediriweera Meran Keshawa , Davaatseren Munkhtugs , Hyun Ho Bong , Cho Somi Kim
Published: January 2022

Bananas, one of the most widely consumed fruits worldwide, are a rich source of valuable phytochemicals. In this study, the antioxidant and the anticancer potential of banana flesh was investigated. Of the four kinds of banana flesh extracts, the hexane extract (HE) had the highest total polyphenol content (2.54 ± 0.60 mg GAE/g) and total flavonoid content (1.69 ± 0.34 mg RE/g), followed by the chloroform fraction, total ethanol extract, and ethanol fraction. HE was found to exert a strong radical scavenging activity on 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonicacid) (ABTS•) free radicals. According to the IC50 values in various cancer cell lines, HE was found to possess the greatest cell growth inhibitory potential in human pancreatic cancer PANC‐1 cells and human triple‐negative breast cancer MDA‐MB‐231 cells. HE induced apoptosis in PANC‐1 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells, as evidenced by the appearance of condensation of chromatin, proteolytic activation of caspase‐3 and 7, and increase in the level of the cleaved form of poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase protein. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) analysis of HE identified several anticancer compounds including palmitic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, campesterol, stigmasterol, and γ‐sitosterol, supporting the anticancer potential of HE. Our investigation provides a rationale for the use of banana flesh to minimize the risk of cancer‐like diseases.
Factors associated with loss to follow‐up after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer
Authors: Hoyle John M. , Correya Tanya A. , Kenzik Kelly , Francisco Liton , Spencer Sharon A. , Willey Christopher D. , Bonner James A. , Snider James W. , Boggs Drexell Hunter , Carroll William R. , Bhatia Smita , McDonald Andrew M.
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients are at high risk for late occurring radiation‐related morbidity and recurrence, necessitating close long‐term medical surveillance. This study identified factors associated with becoming lost to follow‐up (LTFU) at a comprehensive cancer center.

Materials and Methods

Patients were drawn from survivors who received radiation for HNC at a single institution between 2001 and 2018. LTFU was defined as living patients without a clinical encounter within 2 years of the data query.

Results

In total, 537 patients met the inclusion criteria and 57 (10.6%) were identified as LTFU. Individual comparisons identified time since completing radiation, non‐White race and being unmarried as associated with LTFU. Multiple regression identified time since treatment and being unmarried as factors associated with LTFU. A decision tree correctly sorted 89.4% using time, distance, and marital status.

Conclusion

Time since radiation, distance to clinic, and being unmarried were factors associated with becoming LTFU.
A Comparative Analysis of Adopters and Non‐adopters of Drip Irrigation under Plastic Tunnels for Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Production in Balochistan, Pakistan
Authors: Qasim Said , Qasim Muhammad , Hassan Anees , Murtaza Ghulam , Khan Amir Nawaz
Published: January 2022

This research tries to compare the water use efficiency, electricity efficiency and economic efficiency of adopters and non‐adopters of drip irrigation under plastic tunnels (DIUPT). Data regarding the socio‐economic conditions of farmers and their views on the advantages and disadvantages of the DIUPT were collected through a questionnaire survey of 200 farmers. For expenses, income, electricity efficiency and water use efficiency, we collected data only from the sample farmers, i.e. one adopter and one non‐adopter. Results also revealed that the total horsepower (HP) hours of water per acre used for drip‐irrigated cucumber under plastic tunnels was 240 compared to 576 HP hours for the flood method of irrigation, thereby saving 58% (336 HP hours) of energy. In other words, with the same amount of water used for irrigating 1 acre of cucumber under flood irrigation, 2.4 acres of cucumber could be irrigated using drip irrigation. Realizing about 51% higher yields under drip irrigation, adopters enjoy 40% higher returns than non‐adopter farmers. The study recommends dissemination of information to farmers about DIUPT through training and seminars. Adoption of these technologies would lead to efficient and sustainable use of already depleting water resources in the drought‐prone province of Balochistan.
CircRNA_0040705 promotes the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Yanxia , Ji Mengyao , Huang Xu , Yang Fan , Yang Zhiyong , Shen Lei
Published: January 2022

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in cancer progression. Nonetheless, the role and mechanism of circ_0040705 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are unclear. The aberrantly expressed circRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) in HCC tissues were screened by bioinformatics. Circ_0040705, miR‐557, SRY‐box transcription factor 2 (SOX2), E‐cadherin, and N‐cadherin expressions were determined using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) or Western blot. Cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU), and Transwell experiments were utilized to examine the changes in HCC cell growth, migration, and invasion after circ_0040475 was overexpressed or knocked down. Lung metastasis assay was used to validate the effects of circRNA_0040705 on the lung metastasis of HCC cells in vivo. Binding sequences between circ_0040705 and miR‐557 and between miR‐557 and SOX2 were verified using dual‐luciferase reporter gene experiments. The expression levels of circ_0040705 and SOX2 mRNA were markedly increased in HCC tissues, but miR‐557 expression was down‐regulated. Circ_0040705 overexpression enhanced the growth, migration, invasion, and the expressions of E‐cadherin and N‐cadherin of HCC cells and promoted lung metastasis in vivo, whereas circ_0040705 knockdown exerted the opposite effects in HCC cells. Circ_0040705 worked as a sponge for miR‐557 to down‐modulate miR‐557 expression, and miR‐557 could specifically down‐modulate SOX2 expression. Circ_0040705 facilitates HCC cell growth, migration, and invasion by down‐modulating miR‐557 expression and up‐modulating SOX2 expression.
Effectiveness of the family‐based model of dialectical behavior therapy for both suicidal adolescents and young adults in an academic medical center
Authors: Darrow Sabrina M. , Maliken Ashley C. , Piatigorsky Auran , Stuart Barbara K. , Todd Natalie , Yaeger Alison M. , Londahl‐Shaller Esme A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an effective approach to decreasing suicidal behaviors; the adapted, family‐based model for adolescents (through 18 years old; DBT‐A) also demonstrates efficacy. Data on higher dropout rates based on age, initial research on DBT with young adults in the community, and the theory that underlies DBT suggest that adaptations may also be appropriate for young adults. This study examines the effectiveness of DBT‐A, presents preliminary data on delivering DBT‐A to young adults (ages 18–26), and compares clinical characteristics, service utilization, and outcomes to adolescent clients (ages 13–17) to guide clinical considerations and future research on implementing DBT‐A.

Methods

Data were collected from a DBT‐A clinic and included results from semi‐structured diagnostic interviews, chart review, and scores on self‐report measures. The Suicide Ideation Questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), given at program entry, after completion of one rotation through the skills modules, and at graduation, were used to evaluate outcomes. Outcomes were benchmarked against prior DBT‐A trials. Adolescents' and young adults' clinical characteristics, service utilization, and outcomes were compared.

Results

The effect size observed was smaller than in efficacy trials. Few differences were observed between teens (n = 87) and young adults (n = 45). Young adults were more likely to have participated in intensive services before DBT‐A. They participated in fewer family sessions and graduated in fewer months compared to teens.

Conclusion

This study supports the use of the family‐based model of DBT for suicidal teens and young adults although future research is needed to improve the effectiveness of this model when implemented in real‐world settings.
A novel de novo frameshift variation in the SON gene causing severe global developmental delay and seizures in a Chinese female
Authors: Yi Zhi , Song Zhenfeng , Li Fei , Yang Chengqing , Xue Jiao , Li Lei , Zhang Mengxue , Zhang Ying
Published: January 2022

Background

With the rapid development of genetic detection technology, especially next‐generation sequencing, identification of the aetiology of unexplained intellectual disabilities accompanied by seizures and other dysmorphic features has become possible. The purpose of our paper is to make a definitive diagnosis of a girl with neonatal hypotonia, severe global developmental delay, seizures and mild facial dysmorphism.

Methods

The clinical data of the patient were retrospectively studied. Whole‐exome sequencing was performed on a blood sample from the patient. Subsequently, Sanger sequencing was utilized for validation of variants and parental validation.

Results

The patient had hypotonia since the neonatal period. She showed a significant delay in physical and psychomotor development. She did not have any speech until the age of 2 years and 6 months. She had seizures that were easy to control with levetiracetam. The craniocerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) then showed mild delayed myelination, enlarged bilateral ventricles and widened frontotemporal extracerebral space. Interictal video electroencephalogram (VEEG) was normal. She had esotropia and mild facial abnormalities with a flat nasal bridge and a short nose. She showed no abnormalities in the heart, genitourinary or skeletal systems. Whole‐exome sequencing revealed a novel de novo variant c.5334_5335delAG (p. Arg1778Serfs*11) in the SON gene.

Conclusion

Our paper reports a novel variant in the SON gene and provides a definitive diagnosis of a female with neonatal hypotonia, severe global developmental delay, seizures and mild facial abnormalities, which are symptoms consistent with Zhu–Tokita–Takenouchi–Kim syndrome (ZTTK syndrome).
Reflection types and students' viewing of feedback in a first‐year engineering course using standards‐based grading
Authors: Diefes‐Dux Heidi A. , Cruz Castro Laura M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Feedback is one of the most powerful and essential tools for learning and assessment, particularly when it provides the information necessary to close an existing gap between actual and reference levels of performance. The literature on feedback has primarily focused on addressing strategies for providing effective feedback rather than aspects of students' readiness to engage with feedback.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This study investigated whether reflection, as a routine pedagogical intervention grounded in self‐regulated learning theory, promotes the frequency with which students view feedback.

Design/Method

A quasi‐experimental design was employed to examine the relationship between the use of four different reflection types, as well as no reflection, and students' feedback viewing behaviors in a first‐year engineering course that used standards‐based grading. Clickstream data were gathered through the learning management system to count the number of times students viewed feedback. The number of feedback views was compared by reflection type using descriptive statistics and a generalized linear model; weekly feedback viewing patterns were examined using time‐descriptive graphs and the time‐series cluster analysis.

Results

Findings suggest reflection has the potential to increase the frequency of feedback views. Reflection not only had a positive and significant effect on the number of times students viewed feedback but also resulted in less variability between course sections and instructors when structured reflections made explicit references to feedback.

Conclusions

Students need feedback to learn effectively, but many do not view feedback without formal prompting. The authors recommend instructors consistently administer reflections that include explicit pointers to feedback throughout the semester.
Fullerene‐C60/NH2: A recyclable heterogeneous catalyst for the green synthesis of chromene and pyrimidine derivatives and antibacterial evaluation
Authors: Mirza‐Aghayan Maryam , Mohammadi Marzieh , Boukherroub Rabah
Published: January 2022

An effective procedure for the synthesis of amino‐functionalized fullerene with diethylenetriamine (C60‐NH2) is described. The obtained material was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, elemental analysis, thermogravimetric measurements, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The catalytic activity of C60‐NH2 was studied in multicomponent reactions for the synthesis of chromene and pyrimidine derivatives. The results revealed that C60‐NH2 was very effective and the desired chromene and pyrimidine products were isolated in good to excellent yields 78%–97% and 81%–98%, respectively. Moreover, the C60‐NH2 catalyst could be recycled and reused for at least eight runs without substantial loss in its activity, which makes our procedure environmentally benign. Antibacterial behavior of some of the synthesized products was studied against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria using disk and well diffusion methods. The chromene 4g showed a good antibacterial activity against both bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus and Serratia marcescens. A good antibacterial activity was also detected for chromene 4o and pyrimidine 7j against S. aureus. The chromene 4m, 4n and pyrimidine 7i compounds displayed a good activity against Micrococcus luteus as a Gram‐positive bacterium.
The first evidence of hepatitis A virus subgenotype IIIA in the Eastern Brazilian Amazon, 1982–1983
Authors: Moreira Luiz V. L. , Malheiros Andreza P. , Barbosa Kemere M. V. , Freitas Pedro E. B. , Silva Andrea L. , Cruz Ana C. R. , Nunes Heloisa M. , das Chagas André A. C. , de Souza Alex J. S.
Published: January 2022

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is a major causative agent of acute hepatitis worldwide. Although discovered in 1973, due to limitations of applicable serological and/or molecular methods, HAV remained under limited diagnosis until the late 1980s. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the serological and molecular prevalence of the HAV infection among 421 (n = 421) patients with a clinical and laboratory suspicion of acute hepatitis who were admitted in a reference laboratory in the Brazilian Eastern Amazon during 1982 and 1983. The 421 serum samples were screened for anti‐HAV IgM antibodies by enzymatic immunoassays. Positive samples were submitted to total RNA purification and tested by Nested reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction to amplify the HAV‐RNA VP1‐2A (522 bp) region. Anti‐HAV IgM antibodies were detected in 66% (278/421) of the patients. The highest prevalence was observed among males (57.9%, 161/278), and most often among children under 10 years old (63.3%, 176/278). HAV‐RNA was detected in 74.4% (207/278) of anti‐HAV IgM positive samples. HAV genotyping was performed in 71 samples, and 69 were classified into subgenotype IA. Two samples belonged to the HAV subgenotype IIIA. In this sense, retrospective studies can help in understanding the evolution and determination of wild genotypes and subtypes of HAV.
Opioid prescribing practices for pediatric tonsillectomy before and after policy interventions
Authors: Gerges Daniel , Wershoven Nicole , Hubbell Richard , Herrington Heather
Published: January 2022

Objective

This study's purpose was to investigate opioid prescribing practices after pediatric tonsillectomy in the year before and year after implementation of statewide policy interventions in Vermont.

Methods

We reviewed charts of consecutive patients less than 18 years old that underwent tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy at a single tertiary academic medical center 1 year before (July 2016–June 2017) and 1 year after (July 2017–June 2018) implementation of policy interventions targeted at opioid prescribing. Data collected included demographics, procedure performed, indication, complications, medical comorbidities, opioid prescribing practices (medication, dose, morphine milliequivalents, and postdischarge opioid prescriptions), and postoperative telephone calls and emergency department (ED) visits.

Results

Tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy was performed in 360 consecutive patients (185 in the pre‐policy year and 175 in the post‐policy year). Those receiving an opioid prescription in the pre‐ compared to post‐policy year was 49.7% versus 15.4% (p < .001). Of patients 6 years and older, 95.8% in the pre‐policy year compared to 25.2% in the post‐policy year received a postoperative opioid (p < .001). There was no difference in pain‐related office phone calls, postdischarge opioid prescriptions or ED visits between the two groups. There was no difference in morphine milligram equivalent prescribed in the pre‐ and post‐groups.

Conclusion

Implementation of statewide policy interventions can have a substantial impact on opioid prescribing practices in the pediatric tonsillectomy population without an increase in office phone calls, postdischarge opioid prescriptions, and ED visits.

Level of Evidence

4
Biodegradation and Immunological Parameters of Polyurethane‐Based Tissue Adhesive in Arterial Microvascular Anastomoses—A Long‐Term In Vivo Study
Authors: Modabber Ali , Winnand Philipp , Goloborodko Evgeny , Möhlhenrich Stephan Christian , Kniha Kristian , Tolba René , Jockenhoevel Stefan , Hermanns‐Sachweh Benita , Hölzle Frank , Heitzer Marius
Published: January 2022

In microsurgical anastomosis, non‐synthetic fibrin‐based adhesives have predominantly shown superior properties to synthetic cyanoacrylates, but they have hardly any clinical application. This study aims to investigate the local and systemic effects of synthetically produced biodegradable adhesive VIVO when used in microsurgical anastomosis. VIVO is used in two different anastomosis procedures in the common carotid artery in a rat model: VIVO in addition to a temporary catheter (VIVO TC) and VIVO with a custom‐shaped memory nitinol stent (VIVO SM). Conventionally sutured anastomoses serve as controls (C). Tissue response is assessed by in vivo fluorescence imaging and histological examination. The systemic effects of biodegradation are measured using hematologic parameters and serum levels of transaminase activity and lactate dehydrogenase. Finally, the degree of local adhesion of the different anastomotic procedures is evaluated. Fluorescence imaging shows reduced inflammatory blood flow in the VIVO TC group. Histological analysis of the anastomosed vessels also reveals significantly more inflammation in C than in the two adhesive groups. The severity of VIVO adhesions proves acceptable, and no histotoxic effects of VIVO are detected. The data demonstrate that the synthetic tissue adhesive VIVO is a reliable and—compared to sutures—tissue‐friendly adhesive for microsurgical anastomoses.
The Subtle Structure Modulation of A2‐A1‐D‐A1‐A2 Type Nonfullerene Acceptors Extends the Photoelectric Response for High‐Voltage Organic Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Dai Tingting , Tang Ailing , Wang Jiacheng , He Zehua , Li Xianda , Guo Qing , Chen Xingguo , Ding Liming , Zhou Erjun
Published: January 2022

Molecular structural modifications are utilized to improve the short‐circuit current (JSC) of high‐voltage organic photovoltaics (OPVs). Herein, the classic non‐fullerene acceptor (NFA), BTA3, is chosen as a benchmark, with BTA3b containing the linear alkyl chains on the middle core and JC14 fusing thiophene on the benzotriazole (BTA) unit as a contrast. The photovoltaic devices based on J52‐F: BTA3b and J52‐F: JC14 achieve wider external quantum efficiency responses with band edges of 730 and 800 nm, respectively than that of the device based on J52‐F: BTA3 (715 nm). The corresponding  JSC increases to 14.08 and 15.78 mA cm−2, respectively, compared to BTA3 (11.56 mA cm−2). The smaller Urbach energy and higher electroluminescence efficiency guarantee J52‐F: JC14 a decreased energy loss (0.528 eV) and a high open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.07 V. Finally, J52‐F: JC14 combination achieves an increased power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.33% than that of J52‐F: BTA3b (PCE = 9.81%) and J52‐F: BTA3 (PCE = 9.04%). Overall, the research results indicate that subtle structure modification of NFAs, especially introducing fused rings, is a simple and effective strategy to extend the photoelectric response, boosting the  JSC and ensuring a high VOC beyond 1.0 V.
Size Regulation of Polydopamine Nanoparticles by Boronic Acid and Lewis Base
Authors: Huang Chuhao , Wang Xianheng , Yang Peng , Shi Shun , Duan Gaigai , Liu Xianhu , Li Yiwen
Published: January 2022

Size regulation of polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA NPs) is vital to melanin‐inspired materials. The general strategy usually focuses on tuning of the reaction parameters which could affect the dopamine (DA) monomer polymerization process, such as pH, temperature, monomer concentration, etc. The reaction between boronic acids and catechols to form boronic esters has been widely applied in many fields, but little attention has been paid in the size regulation of PDA NPs. Here, it is speculated that the fine size regulation of PDA NPs can be directly achieved by using boronic acids and Lewis base molecules. It is found that these issues could indeed significantly affect the stability of the boronic esters formed by boronic acids and DA, which may further inhibit the monomer polymerization kinetics and tune the particle size of the resulting PDA NPs. It is also found that the several intrinsic properties of PDA NPs such as the free radical scavenging ability, UV spectral absorption, photothermal behavior, and structural color all change with the particle size. It is believed that this work can provide new opportunities for fabricating melanin‐inspired PDA NPs with well controlled size and properties.