bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neonatal procedural pain affects state, but not trait anxiety behavior in adult rats
Authors: de Kort Anne R , Joosten Elbert A , Patijn Jacob , Tibboel Dick , van den Hoogen Nynke J
Published: November 2021

The influence of neonatal experiences upon later‐life affective behavior is increasingly recognized, but the reported effects on anxiety are often contradictory. The observed effect may depend upon the type of anxiety (state or trait) affected. The current study aims to investigate whether neonatal repetitive needle pricking alters anxiety behavior in adulthood, by assessing both state and trait anxiety in rats. Sprague–Dawley rat pups received four unilateral needle pricks per day, while controls received four tactile stimuli or were left completely undisturbed during the first postnatal week. Mechanical sensitivity was assessed in the neonatal phase and throughout the development. State anxiety was assessed in the open field test and trait anxiety in the elevated zero maze. The results show that repetitive needle pricking leads to acute mechanical hypersensitivity, but does not affect baseline mechanical sensitivity throughout development. In adulthood, animals previously exposed to neonatal procedural pain (including repetitive handling and removal from litter) showed lower state anxiety but did not differ in trait anxiety, as compared with the undisturbed controls. These findings indicate that early‐life procedural pain decreases state but not trait anxiety behavior in later life in a rodent model of repetitive needle pricking.
Assessing forest degradation using multivariate and machine‐learning methods in the Patagonian temperate rain forest
Authors: Fajardo Alex , Llancabure Juan C. , Moreno Paulo C.
Published: November 2021

The process of forest degradation, along with deforestation, is the second greatest producer of global greenhouse gas emissions. A key challenge that remains unresolved is how to quantify the critical threshold that distinguishes a degraded from a non‐degraded forest. We determined the critical threshold of forest degradation in mature stands belonging to the temperate evergreen rain forest of southern Chile by quantifying key forest stand factors characterizing the forest degradation status. Forest degradation in this area is mainly caused by high grading, harvesting of fuelwood, and sub‐canopy grazing by livestock. We established 160 500‐m2 plots in forest stands that represented varied degrees of alteration (from pristine conditions to obvious forest degradation), and measured several variables related to the structure and composition of the forest stands, including exotic and native species richness, soil nutrient levels, and other landscape‐scale variables. In order to identify classes of forest degradation, we applied multivariate and machine‐learning analyses. We found that richness of exotic species (including invasive species) with a diameter at breast height (DBH) < 10 cm and tree density (N, DBH > 10 cm) were the two composition and structural variables that best explained the forest degradation status, e.g., forest stands with five or more exotic species were consistently found more associated with degraded forest and stands with N < 200 trees/ha represented degraded forests, while N > 1,000 trees/ha represent pristine forests. We introduced an analytical methodology, mainly based on machine learning, that successfully identified the forest degradation status that can be replicated in other scenarios. In conclusion, here by providing an extensive data set quantifying forest and site attributes, the results of this study are undoubtedly useful for managers and decision makers in classifying and mapping forests suffering various degrees of degradation.
Assessing dynamic vegetation model parameter uncertainty across Alaskan arctic tundra plant communities
Authors: Euskirchen Eugénie S. , Serbin Shawn P. , Carman Tobey B. , Fraterrigo Jennifer M. , Genet Hélène , Iversen Colleen M. , Salmon Verity , McGuire A. David
Published: November 2021

As the Arctic region moves into uncharted territory under a warming climate, it is important to refine the terrestrial biosphere models (TBMs) that help us understand and predict change. One fundamental uncertainty in TBMs relates to model parameters, configuration variables internal to the model whose value can be estimated from data. We incorporate a version of the Terrestrial Ecosystem Model (TEM) developed for arctic ecosystems into the Predictive Ecosystem Analyzer (PEcAn) framework. PEcAn treats model parameters as probability distributions, estimates parameters based on a synthesis of available field data, and then quantifies both model sensitivity and uncertainty to a given parameter or suite of parameters. We examined how variation in 21 parameters in the equation for gross primary production influenced model sensitivity and uncertainty in terms of two carbon fluxes (net primary productivity and heterotrophic respiration) and two carbon (C) pools (vegetation C and soil C). We set up different parameterizations of TEM across a range of tundra types (tussock tundra, heath tundra, wet sedge tundra, and shrub tundra) in northern Alaska, along a latitudinal transect extending from the coastal plain near Utqiaġvik to the southern foothills of the Brooks Range, to the Seward Peninsula. TEM was most sensitive to parameters related to the temperature regulation of photosynthesis. Model uncertainty was mostly due to parameters related to leaf area, temperature regulation of photosynthesis, and the stomatal responses to ambient light conditions. Our analysis also showed that sensitivity and uncertainty to a given parameter varied spatially. At some sites, model sensitivity and uncertainty tended to be connected to a wider range of parameters, underlining the importance of assessing tundra community processes across environmental gradients or geographic locations. Generally, across sites, the flux of net primary productivity (NPP) and pool of vegetation C had about equal uncertainty, while heterotrophic respiration had higher uncertainty than the pool of soil C. Our study illustrates the complexity inherent in evaluating parameter uncertainty across highly heterogeneous arctic tundra plant communities. It also provides a framework for iteratively testing how newly collected field data related to key parameters may result in more effective forecasting of Arctic change.
Ferrocene‐derivative Electrochemical Probe for the Selective Detection of Carcinoma‐associated STn Antigen
Authors: Soares da Silva Maria Luísa
Published: November 2021

Ferrocene‐derivatives have a well‐defined electrochemical behaviour, which can be changed upon binding to other molecules (including nonelectroactive species), as the conjugate presents a slower diffusion to the electrode surface. Therefore, the binding event can be easily detected by monitoring the decrease in the current intensity of the ferrocene‐derivative oxidation peak. An electrochemical probe composed of ferrocenecarboxylic acid conjugated with Sambucus nigra agglutinin was prepared and used to selectively detect the STn antigen, a pan‐carcinoma glycobiomarker. The probe showed high selectivity towards the STn antigen present in glycoproteins and demonstrated effectiveness in the analysis of serum samples from carcinoma patients.
Analysis of protein phosphorylation combining capillary electrophoresis with ATP analog labeling technique
Authors: Li Yue , Liu Yaoqi , Huang Xiangyi , Ren Jicun
Published: November 2021

Protein phosphorylation is one of the most basic mechanisms for regulating and controlling protein biological activity and function, and it is also a very important posttranslational modification process. Protein phosphorylation participates in and regulates many life activities such as signal transduction, gene expression, cell cycle, and so on. In this paper, we propose a method for the determination of the protein phosphorylation combining capillary electrophoresis (CE) with ATP analog labeling technique. We synthesized two new ATP analogs (ATP‐NB and ATP‐TATD‐NB) functionalized by norbornene. Using Abl kinase as a model, we established a method for the determination of the kinase activity in solution and lysate by CE with laser‐induced fluorescence detection (CE‐LIF). This method was used to evaluate the efficiencies of kinase inhibitors. The IC50 values obtained are basically consistent with the reports. By D–A reaction (inverse electron demand Diels–Alder reaction) to label TZ‐BODIPY fluorescence, we also realized the phosphorylation fluorescence detection of substrate peptide. Then, we used fluorescence confocal microscopy imaging technology to study the phosphorylation of proteins in vivo by the D–A reaction of ATP‐NB and TZ‐BODIPY. Our preliminary results documented that the combination of CE‐LIF with analog ATP‐NB labeling technique is an effective strategy for the determination of the protein phosphorylation and the kinase activity and for screening of kinase inhibitors. The D–A reaction of ATP‐NB and TZ‐BODIPY also laid the foundation for the subsequent in situ study of protein phosphorylation.
Retracted: Comparative molecular docking and molecular‐dynamic simulation of wild‐type‐ and mutant carboxylesterase with BTA‐hydrolase for enhanced binding to plastic
Authors: Lameh Fatana , Baseer Abdul Qadeer , Ashiru Abubakar Garba
Published: November 2021

According to the literature review, microbial degradation of polyethylene terephthalate by PETases has been detected effective and eco‐friendly. However, the number of microorganisms capable of such feats is limited with some undesirable bioprospecting results. BTA‐hydrolase has been already reported capable of degrading polyethylene terephthalate. Therefore, mutation by in silico site‐directed mutagenesis means to introduce current isomer of PETase for polyethylene terephthalate degradative capability as a better approach to resolve this issue. This study aimed to use in silico site‐directed mutagenesis to convert a carboxylesterase from Archaeoglobus fulgidus to BTA‐hydrolase from Thermobifida fusca by replacing six amino acids in specific locations. This work was followed by molecular docking analysis with polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene to compare their interactions. The best‐docked enzyme‐substrate complex was further subjected to molecular dynamics simulation to gauge the binding quality of the BTA‐hydrolase, wild‐type and mutant‐carboxylesterase with only polyethylene terephthalate as a substrate. Results of molecular docking revealed lowest binding energy for the wild‐type carboxylesterase‐polypropylene complex (‐7.5 kcal/mol). The root‐mean‐square deviation value was observed stable for BTA‐hydrolase. Meanwhile, root‐mean‐square fluctuation was assessed with higher fluctuation for the mutated residue Lys178. Consequently, the Rg value for BTA‐hydrolase‐ligand complex (∼1.68 nm) was the lowest compared to the mutant and wild‐type carboxylesterase. The collective data conveyed that mutations imparted a minimal change in the ability of the mutant carboxylesterase to bind to polyethylene terephthalate.
Techno‐economic assessment of a new biomass‐driven cogeneration system proposed for net zero energy buildings
Authors: Mohammadikhah Fazel , Javaherdeh Kourosh , Mahmoudimehr Javad
Published: November 2021

This study evaluates the techno‐economic feasibility of a new biomass‐driven cogeneration system designed to fulfill all energy requirements (i.e., electricity, hot water, cooling, and heating) of a grid‐connected building throughout the year. The proposed system is also expected to achieve the goal of zero energy building (ZEB). A 10‐story residential complex is considered as the present case study. The study is carried out for three cities of Iran with different climate conditions (mild, hot, and cold) and with the annual energy requirements of about 104,472 kWh, 128,784 kWh, and 142,518 kWh, respectively. After defining two objective functions (“annual actual benefit” and “loss of building requirements supply probability”), the system is optimized by using the Non‐dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA‐II). The results show that the designed system is economically viable with the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of about 0.15–0.2 $/kWh. The results also indicate that if the cost of CO2 emission is taken into consideration, the annual benefit of the system is decreased by 16%–25%. Finally, a sensitivity analysis shows that heat generation cost and electricity selling price have the most and the least effect on the system's annual benefit, respectively.
Phosphorylated avocado seed: A renewable biomaterial for preparing a flame retardant biofiller
Authors: Zuluaga‐Parra J. David , Ramos‐deValle Luis F. , Sánchez‐Valdes Saul , Torres‐Lubián Jose Roman , Rodriguez‐Fernadez Oliverio S. , Hernández‐Hernández Ernesto , da Silva Luciano , Rodríguez‐Gonzalez Jose Alberto , Borjas‐Ramos Javier J. , Vázquez‐Rodríguez Sofia , Uribe‐Calderón Jorge A.
Published: November 2021

Avocado seed was first washed, dehydrated, and pulverized, and thereafter, chemically modified with phosphoric acid in the presence of urea, to obtain a low density and sustainable fire retarding filler. Infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used in order to determine the resulting chemical structure and confirm the presence of the proposed functional groups. In addition, scanning electron microscopy and elemental analysis were used to establish the resulting morphological changes, as well as the elements present on the modified material. Thermogravimetric analysis was also carried out in order to establish the thermal stability of the material and predict the effect on the flame retardancy due to the mentioned chemical modification. It was also determined that chemical modification greatly increased the thermal stability of the avocado seed. The flame‐retardant effect of the modified avocado seed was assessed in polyethylene/ethylene‐vinyl‐acetate (PE/EVA) composites via cone calorimeter tests. It was observed by DSC, that the incorporation of avocado seed, does not affect the melting temperature of the PE/EVA polymer blend. The results showed that the modified avocado seed decreased the peak of the heat release rate (pHRR) by 54% and the total heat released (THR) by 15%. The UL‐94 and LOI tests of the modified avocado biocomposites showed an improvement in the flame retardant properties, and reached a UL‐94 V‐1 classification. Tensile tests showed that the bio‐composites with unmodified and modified avocado seed exhibit similar tensile strength and modulus than the LDPE/EVA blend, but a lower elongation. These results suggest that phosphorylated avocado seed could be a good option as a renewable biofiller for polymer composites with enhanced flame‐retardant properties.
Likely behaviours of people under emergency circumstances in hospitals: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Abouee‐Mehrizi Amirreza , Alizadeh Seyed Shamseddin , Masoomi Mohammadsadegh , Barazandeh‐Asl Ramin
Published: November 2021

Hospitals, which play an important role in reducing injuries and casualties, must be prepared for a crowd of people in emergencies. The present study aimed to survey and collect data on the likely behaviours of people under emergency circumstances in hospitals in order to improve emergency response plans in these places. The target population was all individuals present in three hospitals from Tabriz (including patients, companions and treatment staff), and the sample size was 1145. A questionnaire was administered to this population in order to collect the data. The comparison of different groups was performed based on participants' gender and their role. Results showed that, in general, everyone in the surveyed hospitals is more likely to choose a reactive strategy rather than a preventive strategy as well as a cooperative strategy rather than a competitive strategy, and less willing to use lifts during emergencies. Comparing different strategies utilized by different people resulting from ordered logit models revealed that there are significant differences in evacuation strategies between men and women as well as between treatment staff and all respondents. Men were more likely to select a proactive strategy rather than a reactive strategy compared to women. Also, the treatment staff group were more likely to employ a cooperative strategy and less likely to use a competitive strategy compared to other people. In view of the role of hospitals, the results of this study can play a major role in policy‐making to predict the behaviour of different individuals in healthcare settings and perform needs assessment to consider the necessary facilities or raining required for different people in various countries.
Entropy analysis of unsteady MHD three‐dimensional flow of Williamson nanofluid over a convectively heated stretching sheet
Authors: Mandal Susanta , Shit Gopal Chandra
Published: November 2021

This article addresses an investigation of the entropy analysis of Williamson nanofluid flow in the presence of gyrotactic microorganisms by considering variable viscosity and thermal conductivity over a convectively heated bidirectionally stretchable surface. Heat and mass transfer phenomena have been incorporated by taking into account the thermal radiation, heat source or sink, viscous dissipation, Brownian motion, and thermophoretic effects. The representing equations are nonlinear coupled partial differential equations and these equations are shaped into a set of ordinary differential equations via a suitable similarity transformation. The arising set of ordinary differential equations was then worked out by adopting a well‐known scheme, namely the shooting method along with the Runge‐Kutta‐Felberge integration technique. The effects of flow and heat transfer controlling parameters on the solution variables are depicted and analyzed through the graphical presentation. The survey finds that magnifying viscosity parameter, Weissenberg number representing the non‐Newtonian Williamson parameter cause to retard the velocity field in both the directions and thermal conductivity parameter causes to reduce fluid temperature. The study also recognizes that enhancing magnetic parameters and thermal conductivity parameters slow down the heat transfer rate. The entropy production of the system is estimated through the Bejan number. It is noticeable that the Bejan number is eminently dependent on the heat generation parameter, thermal radiation parameter, viscosity parameter, thermal conductivity parameter, and Biot number. The skillful accomplishment of the present heat and mass transfer system is achieved through the exteriorized choice of the pertinent parameters.
Hydrological behaviour of an ice‐layered snowpack in a non‐mountainous environment
Authors: Paquotte Andrea , Baraer Michel
Published: November 2021

The increased frequency of mild rain‐on‐snow (R.O.S.) events in cold regions associated with climate change is projected to affect snowpack structure and hydrological behaviour. The ice layers that form in a cold snowpack when R.O.S. events occur have been shown to influence flowthrough processes and liquid water retention, with consequences for winter floods, groundwater recharge, and water resources management. This study explores interconnections between meteorological conditions, ice layer formation, and lateral flows during R.O.S. events throughout the 2018–2019 winter in meridional Quebec, Canada. Automated hydro‐meteorological measurements, such as water availability for runoff, snow water equivalent, and snowpit observations, are used to compute water and energy balances, making it possible to characterize a snowpack's internal conditions and flowthrough regimes. For compatibility assessment, water and energy balances‐based flowthrough scenarios are then compared to different hydro‐meteorological variables', such as water table or streamlet water levels. The results show an association between highly variable meteorological conditions, frequent R.O.S. events, and ice layer formation. Lateral flows were mainly observed during the early stage of the ablation period. The hydrologically significant lateral flows observed in the study are associated with winter conditions that are predicted to become more frequent in a changing climate, stressing the need for further evaluation of their potential impact at the watershed scale.
Structural modulation and assembling of metal halide perovskites for solar cells and light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Liu Xixia , Zhang Zhaofu , Lin Fen , Cheng Yuanhang
Published: November 2021

Metal halide perovskites possess appealing optoelectronic properties and have been widely applied for solar energy harvesting and light emitting. Although perovskite solar cells (PeSCs) and perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have been developed rapidly in recent years, there are still no universal rules for the selection of perovskites to achieve high‐performance optoelectronic devices. In this review, the working mechanisms of PeSCs and PeLEDs are first demonstrated with the discussion on the factors which determine the device performance. We then examine the optoelectronic properties of perovskites with structures modulated from 3D, 2D, 1D to 0D, and analyze the corresponding structure‐property relationships in terms of photo‐electric and electric‐photo conversion processes. Based on the unique optoelectronic properties of structurally modulated perovskites, we put forward the concept of structural assembling engineering that integrate the merits of different types of perovskites within one matrix and elaborate their excellent properties for applications of both PeSCs and PeLEDs. Finally, we discuss the potential challenges and provide our perspectives on the structural assembling engineering of perovskites for future optoelectronic applications.

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Authors: Wang Chunfeng , Ma Ronghua , Peng Dengfeng , Liu Xianhu , Li Jing , Jin Boru , Shan Aixian , Fu Yu , Dong Lin , Gao Wenchao , Wang Zhong Lin , Pan Caofeng
Published: November 2021

Turning waste into treasure: conversion of waste egg‐shells to high‐performance mechanoluminescent hybrid for energy‐related applications. (DOI: 10.1002/inf2.12250)

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Authors: Sung Myeong‐Chang , Lee Gwang‐Hee , Kim Dong‐Wan
Published: November 2021

The composition‐tailored perovskite nanofibers are proposed as efficient oxygen reduction/evolution reaction electrocatalysts for Li–O2 batteries. (DOI: 10.1002/inf2.12243)

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Multifunctional plasmonic gold nanostars for cancer diagnostic and therapeutic applications
Authors: Pearl Wrenit Gem , Perevedentseva Elena V. , Karmenyan Artashes V. , Khanadeev Vitaly A. , Wu Sheng‐Yun , Ma Yuan‐Ron , Khlebtsov Nikolai G. , Cheng Chia‐Liang
Published: November 2021

Gold nanostar (AuNSt) has gained great attention in bioimaging and cancer therapy due to their tunable surface plasmon resonance across the visible‐near infrared range. Photothermal treatment and imaging capabilities including fluorescence lifetime imaging at two‐photon excitation (TP‐FLIM) and dark‐field microscopic imaging are considered in this work. Two types of AuNSts having plasmon absorption peaks centred at 600 and 750 nm wavelength were synthesized and studied. Both NSts exhibited low cytotoxicity on A549 human lung carcinoma cells. A strong emission at two‐photon excitation was observed for both NSts, well‐distinguishable from lifetimes of bio‐object autofluorescence. High efficiency in raising the temperature in the NSts environment with the irradiation of near infrared, AuNSts triggered photothermal effect. The decreased cell viability of A549 observed via MTT test and the cell membrane damaging was demonstrated with trypan blue staining. These results suggest AuNSts can be agents with tunable plasmonic properties for imaging and photothermal therapy.
Fabrication and characterization of a bioactive polymethylmethacrylate‐based porous cement loaded with strontium/calcium apatite nanoparticles
Authors: Tomazela Larissa , Cruz Marcos Antônio Eufrásio , Nascimento Larissa Aine , Fagundes Cecilia C. , da Veiga Márcia Andreia Mesquita S. , Zamarioli Ariane , Bottini Massimo , Ciancaglini Pietro , Brassesco Maria Sol , Engel Edgard E. , Ramos Ana Paula
Published: November 2021

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)‐based cements are used for bone reparation due to their biocompatibility, suitable mechanical properties, and mouldability. However, these materials suffer from high exothermic polymerization and poor bioactivity, which can cause the formation of fibrous tissue around the implant and aseptic loosening. Herein, we tackled these problems by adding Sr2+‐substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (NPs) and a porogenic compound to the formulations, thus creating a microenvironment suitable for the proliferation of osteoblasts. The NPs resembled the structure of the bone's apatite and enabled the controlled release of Sr2+. Trends in the X‐ray patterns and infrared spectra confirmed that Sr2+ replaced Ca2+ in the whole composition range of the NPs. The inclusion of an effervescent additive reduced the polymerization temperature and lead to the formation of highly porous cement exhibiting mechanical properties comparable to the trabecular bone. The formation of an opened and interconnected matrix allowed osteoblasts to penetrate the cement structure. Most importantly, the gas formation confined the NPs at the surface of the pores, guaranteeing the controlled delivery of Sr2+ within a concentration sufficient to maintain osteoblast viability. Additionally, the cement was able to form apatite when immersed into simulated body fluids, further increasing its bioactivity. Therefore, we offer a formulation of PMMA cement with improved in vitro performance supported by enhanced bioactivity, increased osteoblast viability and deposition of mineralized matrix assigned to the loading with Sr2+‐substituted hydroxyapatite NPs and the creation of an interconnected porous structure. Altogether, our results hold promise for enhanced bone reparation guided by PMMA cements.
Efficacy of marine biomolecules on angiogenesis by targeting hypoxia inducible factor/vascular endothelial growth factor signaling in zebrafish model
Authors: Nathan Jhansi , Ramachandran Arunkumar
Published: November 2021

Marine resources are notably explored for their unique biomolecules that have been designed to be drug targets for their immense potential against various pathologies. These biomolecules are mostly secondary metabolites from different species that include sponges, tunicates, echinoderms, ascidians, algae, and marine symbionts. Among the various biological activities of the marine biomolecules, antiangiogenic property has gained much significance in alternate therapy for treatment against cancer. Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are the prime signaling pathways related to angiogenesis that are exclusively designated as markers for critical selection of novel inhibitors. This is mainly due to their importance in tumor induction and regulatory control over other interlinked pathways involved in cancer. Small molecular drug screening using the zebrafish model has been an advantage in cancer research in recent times. This review addresses the importance of marine biomolecules and their antiangiogenic efficacy by targeting HIF/VEGF pathways experimented in the zebrafish model in the last decade. Thus, it would provide more clear insights into the role of biomolecules in alternative cancer therapy.
Protective effects of 6‐gingerol on 6‐hydroxydopamine‐induced apoptosis in PC12 cells through modulation of SAPK/JNK and survivin activation
Authors: Rezazadeh‐Shojaee Farzaneh‐Sadat , Ramazani Elham , Kasaian Jamal , Tayarani‐Najaran Zahra
Published: November 2021

Due to many therapeutic effects, Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is the most widely used spice around the world, including in Iran. Due to its potent anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects, ginger may protect against neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we investigated the effects of 6‐gingerol (the main bioactive compound in ginger) on 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA)‐induced cell death in PC12 cells. Cell viability, cell apoptosis, and stress‐activated protein kinase/c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK), and survivin expression were measured using resazurin, propidium iodide (PI) and flow cytometry, and western blot analysis. 6‐OHDA (100 μM) reduced the cell viability, increased apoptosis, increased the active form of SAPK/JNK, and decreased survivin protein level in PC12 exposed cells in a dose and time‐dependent manner. Pretreatment with 6‐gingerol significantly increased the viability and reduced apoptosis (2.5 and 5 µM). Also, pretreatment with 6‐gingerol at 2.5 and 5 µM increased survivin whereas, 6‐gingerol at 2.5 µM reduced (P‐SAPK/JNK):(SAPK/JNK) levels to a level near that of the related control. According to the results, 6‐gingerol blocks 6‐OHDA‐induced cell damage by suppressing oxidative stress and anti‐apoptotic activity. Thus, 6‐gingerol may process beneficial protective effects in slowing the progression of Parkinson's disease.
Lutein induces an inhibitory effect on the malignant progression of pancreatic adenocarcinoma by targeting BAG3/cholesterol homeostasis
Authors: Han Lulu , Song Xiaoming
Published: November 2021

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a fatal malignancy and patients with PDAC are mostly diagnosed at advanced stages. Lutein is a natural compound that belongs to the non‐vitamin A carotenoids family and has presented antitumor effects on multiple cancer types. However, the function of lutein in PDAC and the mechanisms are not reported. Here, we explored the role of lutein in PDAC progression. Bioinformatic analysis identified that lutein is correlated with PDAC. Lutein suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PANC‐1 cells. The upregulated genes in PDAC patients were identified and the overlap analysis predicted BAG3 as one target of lutein. Lutein repressed BAG3 expression and bioinformatics analysis predicted the interaction between lutein and BAG3. The inhibitory effects of lutein on PANC‐1 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion are reversed by overexpression of BAG3. GSEA analysis identified that cholesterol homeostasis as one of the downstream signaling pathways of BAG3. In conclusion, lutein induced an inhibitory effect on the malignant progression of PDAC by targeting BAG3/cholesterol homeostasis. Lutein may be applied as a promising candidate for PDAC therapy.
Impact of FOXP1 rs2687201 genetic variant on the susceptibility to HCV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma in Egyptians
Authors: Motawi Tarek Mohamed Kamal , Sabry Dina , Shehata Nagwa Ibrahim , William Mira Magdy , Fahim Atef Tadros
Published: November 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes a challenging health problem in Egypt due to the high incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Improved understanding of genetic mechanisms underlying the individual predisposition to HCC will lead to enhancements in the early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of this disease. Transcription factor forkhead box P1 (FOXP1) is involved in the cellular processes of proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and longevity. In addition, it has been implicated in hepatic tumorigenesis. The present study explored the association of C/A single‐nucleotide polymorphism in the FOXP1 gene (rs2687201) with HCC susceptibility in HCV Egyptian patients. The study included 108 patients with HCV‐dependant HCC, 86 HCV patients, and 80‐ age and gender‐matched healthy controls. rs2687201 genotyping was performed by allelic discrimination method using TaqMan real‐time PCR assays while FOXP1 gene expression and protein level were determined using qRT‐PCR and enzyme‐linked immunoassay, respectively. Our results revealed a significant association between FOXP1 rs2687201 and HCC risk where (A) allele was significantly more frequent in patients with HCC compared to controls (odds ratio [OR]: 1.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17–3.04, p = 0.01) and to HCV patients (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.62–2.94, p = 0.012). Furthermore, FOXP1 gene and protein expression levels were remarkably higher in (CA + AA) than in CC genotype carriers in a dominant model. The (CA + AA) genotype displayed a significantly shorter overall survival than the CC genotype in HCC patients. In conclusion, FOXP1 gene polymorphism rs2687201 is significantly associated with HCC, but not with HCV infection, in Egyptian patients.
On optimal (Z6m×Z6n,4,1) and (Z2m×Z18n,4,1) difference packings and their related codes
Authors: Chen Jingyuan , Ji Lijun
Published: November 2021

We give a direct construction of a relative difference family for and every prime with . These allow us to construct an optimal difference packing and an optimal difference packing for every pair of positive integers . The corresponding optimal optical orthogonal signature pattern codes are also obtained.
Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura following Pfizer COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Alislambouli Mawaddah , Veras Victoria Andy , Matta Jyoti , Yin Faye
Published: November 2021

Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP) is a rare disease and has occasionally been described after vaccination, especially against viral agents. We present a case of a patient who presents with the classic pentad of TTP a few days after receiving the first dose of the mRNA Pfizer COVID‐19 vaccine. To our knowledge, this is the second report of a de novo TTP following mRNA Pfizer COVID‐19 vaccination.
The effect of mechanical stress on enthesis homeostasis in a rat Achilles enthesis organ culture model
Authors: Saito Taichi , Nakamichi Ryo , Yoshida Aki , Hiranaka Takaaki , Okazaki Yuki , Nezu Satoshi , Matsuhashi Minami , Shimamura Yasunori , Furumatsu Takayuki , Nishida Keiichiro , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: November 2021

Tendons and ligaments are jointed to bones via an enthesis that is essential to the proper function of the muscular and skeletal structures. The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of mechanical stress on the enthesis. We used ex vivo models in organ cultures of rat Achilles tendons with calcaneus including the enthesis. The organ was attached to a mechanical stretching apparatus that can conduct cyclic tensile strain. We made the models of 1‐mm elongation (0.5 Hz, 3% elongation), 2‐mm elongation (0.5 Hz, 5% elongation), and no stress. Histological evaluation by Safranin O staining and Toluidin Blue and Picro Sirius red staining was conducted. Expression of sex‐determining region Y‐box 9 (Sox9), scleraxis (Scx), Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), and matrix metalloproteinase 13 (Mmp13) were examined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate biotin nick end‐labeling and live/dead staining and was conducted for evaluation of the apoptosis and cell viability. The structure of the enthesis was most maintained in the model of 1‐mm elongation. The electronic microscope showed that the enthesis of the no stress model had ill‐defined borders between fibrocartilage and mineralized fibrocartilage, and that calcification of mineralized fibrocartilage occurred in the model of 2‐mm elongation. Sox9 and Scx was upregulated by 1‐mm elongation, whereas Runx2 and Mmp13 were upregulated by 2‐mm elongation. Apoptosis was inhibited by low stress. The results of this study suggested that 1‐mm elongation can maintain the structure of the enthesis, while 2‐mm elongation promotes degenerative changes.
Guidelines for the provision of nutrition support therapy in the adult critically ill patient: The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
Authors: Compher Charlene , Bingham Angela L. , McCall Michele , Patel Jayshil , Rice Todd W. , Braunschweig Carol , McKeever Liam
Published: November 2021

Background

This guideline updates recommendations from the 2016 American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN)/Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) critical care nutrition guideline for five foundational questions central to critical care nutrition support.

Methods

The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) process was used to develop and summarize evidence for clinical practice recommendations. Clinical outcomes were assessed for (1) higher vs lower energy dose, (2) higher vs lower protein dose, (3) exclusive isocaloric parenteral nutrition (PN) vs enteral nutrition (EN), (4) supplemental PN (SPN) plus EN vs EN alone, (5A) mixed‐oil lipid injectable emulsions (ILEs) vs soybean oil, and (5B) fish oil (FO)–containing ILE vs non‐FO ILE. To assess safety, weight‐based energy intake and protein were plotted against hospital mortality.

Results

Between January 1, 2001, and July 15, 2020, 2320 citations were identified and data were abstracted from 36 trials including 20,578 participants. Patients receiving FO had decreased pneumonia rates of uncertain clinical significance. Otherwise, there were no differences for any outcome in any question. Owing to a lack of certainty regarding harm, the energy prescription recommendation was decreased to 12–25 kcal/kg/day.

Conclusion

No differences in clinical outcomes were identified among numerous nutrition interventions, including higher energy or protein intake, isocaloric PN or EN, SPN, or different ILEs. As more consistent critical care nutrition support data become available, more precise recommendations will be possible. In the meantime, clinical judgment and close monitoring are needed. This paper was approved by the ASPEN Board of Directors.
Abrupt intrinsic and extrinsic responses of southwestern Iberian vegetation to millennial‐scale variability over the past 28 ka
Authors: Cutmore Anna , Ausín Blanca , Maslin Mark , Eglinton Timothy , Hodell David , Muschitiello Francesco , Menviel Laurie , Haghipour Negar , Martrat Belen , Margari Vasiliki , Tzedakis Polychronis C.
Published: November 2021

We present new high‐resolution pollen records combined with palaeoceanographic proxies from the same samples in deep‐sea cores SHAK06‐5K and MD01‐2444 on the southwestern Iberian Margin, documenting regional vegetation responses to orbital and millennial‐scale climate changes over the last 28 ka. The chronology of these records is based on high‐resolution radiocarbon dates of monospecific samples of the planktonic foraminifera Globigerina bulloides, measured from SHAK06‐5K and MD01‐2444 and aligned using an automated stratigraphical alignment method. Changes in temperate and steppe vegetation during Marine Isotope Stage 2 are closely coupled with sea surface temperature (SST) and global ice‐volume changes. The peak expansion of thermophilous woodland between ~10.1 and 8.4 cal ka bp lags behind the boreal summer insolation maximum by ~2 ka, possibly arising from residual high‐latitude ice‐sheets into the Holocene. Rapid changes in pollen percentages are coeval with abrupt transitions in SSTs, precipitation and winter temperature at the onset and end of Heinrich Stadial 2, the ice‐rafted debris event and end of Heinrich Stadial 1, and the onset of the Younger Dryas, suggesting extrinsically forced southwestern Iberian ecosystem changes by abrupt North Atlantic climate events. In contrast, the abrupt decline in thermophilous elements at ~7.8 cal ka bp indicates an intrinsically mediated abrupt vegetation response to the gradually declining boreal insolation, potentially resulting from the crossing of a seasonality of precipitation threshold.
Simultaneous quantification of anthraquinone glycosides, aglycones, and glucuronic acid metabolites in rat plasma and tissues after oral administration of raw and steamed rhubarb in blood stasis rats by UHPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Zhou Ping , Zhang Jing , Xu Yudi , Zhang Peng , Xiao Yongqing , Liu Ying
Published: November 2021

Rhubarb is a widely used herbal medicine. To achieve different effects, rhubarb is usually steamed with rice wine (steamed rhubarb). This steaming treatment increases the blood‐activating and stasis‐removing effects of rhubarb. A specific and accurate ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method was established for simultaneous determination of anthraquinone glycosides, aglycones, and glucuronic acid metabolites in plasma and tissues after administration of raw rhubarb and steamed rhubarb in blood stasis rats. Chromatographic separation was performed on ACQUITY UPLC BEH Shield RP 18 column using the mobile phase consisting of water and acetonitrile both containing 0.1% formic acid. Satisfactory linearity, precision, accuracy, extraction recovery, and matrix effect have been achieved. From pharmacokinetic study, it showed that glucuronic acid metabolites were found abundantly in plasma as bioactive components. The lower area under concentration‐time curve, maximum concentration, and higher apparent volume of distribution (P < 0.01), body clearance (P < 0.01) values in steamed rhubarb showed that most components of steamed rhubarb have lower bioavailability in plasma compared with raw rhubarb. But it found these components were mainly distributed in spleen and liver with large blood flow and perfusion rates. The pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution studies of anthraquinone components will provide helpful information for clinical application of steamed rhubarb and raw rhubarb.
Evaluating Strength of Evidence of Pediatric Otolaryngology Research Literature: A 20‐Year Review
Authors: Silver Jennifer A. , Yeung Jeffrey C. , Almutawa Deema , Szwimer Rachel , Nguyen Lily H. P.
Published: November 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Quantity and quality of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery (OTL‐HNS) research are increasing, yet patterns within Pediatric OTL‐HNS publications are unknown. This study examines trends in the level of evidence of pediatric OTL‐HNS articles over a 20‐year period to quantify the growth and characterize contributing factors.

Study Design

Review article.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on 12 peer‐reviewed OTL‐HNS journals at three time‐points: 1996, 2006, and 2016. Pediatric‐specific OTL‐HNS journals were selected; all were among the top 10 highest impact factor journals, with one pediatric‐specific and one Canadian journal. Publication details, author characteristics, and study focus were collected. Papers were classified based on the Oxford Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine Levels of Evidence by two independent reviewers.

Results

Of the 1,733 articles reviewed, 727 met inclusion criteria. A greater absolute number of pediatric OTL‐HNS articles were published over the years studied: from 95 in 1996 to 359 in 2016 (P < .001). As well, the absolute number of high‐quality studies has increased over the study period, from 28 articles in 1996 to 100 articles in 2016. However, the relative percentage of high‐quality papers remained stable between 27.9% and 32.2% with an average of 29.7% (P = .89). Higher impact factor journals did not tend to publish higher‐quality pediatric OTL‐HNS articles (P = .48).

Conclusions

Over the past 20 years, there is no appreciable improvement in the proportion of high‐quality publications in pediatric OTL‐HNS; however, there is an overall greater number of high‐quality papers within OTL‐HNS literature. These findings likely relate to challenges of research within pediatric surgical specialties.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 132:1869–1876, 2022
Development and clinical validation of a droplet digital PCR assay for detecting Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae in patients with suspected bloodstream infections
Authors: Zheng Yang , Jin Jun , Shao Ziqiang , Liu Jingquan , Zhang Run , Sun Renhua , Hu Bangchuan
Published: November 2021

The relatively long turnaround time and low sensitivity of traditional blood culture‐based diagnosis may delay effective antibiotic therapy for patients with bloodstream infections (BSIs). A rapid and sensitive pathogen detection method is urgently required to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with BSIs. Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae are two major microorganisms that cause BSIs. Here we report a novel droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay that can detect A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae in blood samples within 4 h, with a specificity of 100% for each strain and a limit of detection at 0.93 copies/μl for A. baumannii and 0.27 copies/μl for K. pneumoniae. Clinical validation of 170 patients with suspected BSIs showed that compared to blood cultures that detected four (2.4%) A. baumannii cases and seven (4.1%) K. pneumoniae cases, ddPCR detected 23 (13.5%) A. baumannii cases, 26 (15.3%) K. pneumoniae cases, and four (2.4%) co‐infection cases, including the 11 cases detected via blood culture. In addition, patients who tested positive via ddPCR alone (n = 42) had significantly lower serum concentrations of procalcitonin and lactate, SOFA and APACHE II scores, and 28‐day mortality than those reported positive via both blood culture and ddPCR (n = 11), suggesting that patients with less severe symptoms can potentially benefit from ddPCR‐based diagnosis. In conclusion, our study suggests that ddPCR represents a sensitive and rapid method for identifying causal pathogens in blood samples and guiding treatment decisions in the early stages of BSIs.
A hybrid approach based on ELECTRE III‐genetic algorithm and TOPSIS method for selection of optimal COVID‐19 vaccines
Authors: Forestal Roberto Louis , Pi Shih‐Ming
Published: November 2021

COVID‐19 pandemic poses unprecedented challenges to the world health system, prompting academics and health professionals to develop appropriate solutions. Researchers reported different COVID‐19 vaccines introduced by institutions and companies around the globe, which are at different stages of development. However, research developing an integrated framework for selecting and ranking the optimal potential vaccine against COVID‐19 is minimal. This paper aimed to fill this gap by using a hybrid methodology based on ELimination Et Choice Translating REality III (ELECTRE III)–Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Technique of Order Preference Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) approach to select the optimal SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine. ELECTRE III method yields a fathomable analysis of the concordance index, while GA is known for its ability to disaggregate decision‐making preferences from holistic decisions. TOPSIS is preferred for picking an ideal and an anti‐ideal solution. Thus, combining ELECTRE III‐GA and TOPSIS is considered the best model to assess vaccines against the pandemic. The results confirm that the best vaccines rely on a high level of safety, efficacy, and availability. Our developed evaluation framework can help healthcare professionals and researchers gain research information and make critical decisions regarding potential vaccines against the disease.