bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternally transmitted nonsyndromic hearing impairment may be associated with mitochondrial tRNAAla 5601C>T and tRNALeu(CUN) 12311T>C mutations
Authors: Yu Xuejiao , Li Sheng , Ding Yu
Published: February 2022

Background

Sequence alternations in mitochondrial genomes, especially in genes encoding mitochondrial tRNA (mt‐tRNA), were the important contributors to nonsyndromic hearing loss (NSHL); however, the molecular mechanisms remained largely undetermined.

Methods

A maternally transmitted Chinese pedigree with NSHL underwent clinical, genetic, and biochemical assessment. PCR and direct sequence analyses were performed to detect mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), GJB2, and SLC26A4 gene mutations from matrilineal relatives of this family. Mitochondrial functions including mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), ATP, and ROS were evaluated in polymononuclear leukocytes (PMNs) derived from three deaf patients and three controls from this pedigree.

Results

Four of nine matrilineal relatives developed hearing loss at the variable age of onset. Two putative pathogenic mutations, m.5601C>T in tRNAAla and m.12311T>C in tRNALeu(CUN), were identified via PCR‐Sanger sequencing, as well as 34 variants that belonged to mtDNA haplogroup G2b2. Intriguingly, m.5601C>T mutation resided at very conserved nucleotide in the TψC loop of tRNAAla (position 59), while the T‐to‐C substitution at position 12311 located at position 48 in the variable stem of tRNALeu(CUN) and was believed to alter the aminoacylation and the steady‐state level of tRNA. Biochemical analysis revealed the impairment of mitochondrial functions including the significant reductions of ATP and MMP, whereas markedly increased ROS levels were found in PMNs derived from NSHL patients with m.5601C>T and m.12311T>C mutations. However, we did not detect any mutations in GJB2 and SLC26A4 genes.

Conclusion

Our data indicated that mt‐tRNAAla m.5601C>T and tRNALeu(CUN) 12311T>C mutations were associated with NSHL.
Evaluation of LAMP assay using phenotypic tests and PCR for detection of blaKPC gene among clinical samples
Authors: Chen Nianzhen , Li Gen , Si Yuying , Zhang Wenyan , Ye Yangqin , Wang Yuchao , Wang Keli , Zong Ming , Fan Lieying
Published: February 2022

Background

Carbapenem‐resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infection constitutes a public health threat, which blaKPC was the major carbapenemases concerned in China. Timely and efficient diagnosis is of paramount importance for controlling the spread of drug‐resistant bacteria. Here, we develop an approach based on loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for rapid confirmation of blaKPC within 60 min from samples collected.

Methods

We designed primers specific to detect blaKPC and evaluated it for its sensitivity and specificity of detection using real‐time monitoring. Five hundred forty‐six clinical specimens were analyzed by the LAMP assay and compared with the phenotypic tests and PCR. The samples with inconsistent results were further verified by Sanger sequencing.

Results

The LAMP assay displayed a detection limit of 1 × 102 CFU/ml, which was 10‐fold more sensitive than the PCR. No cross‐reactivity was observed for strains that produced other types of β‐lactamase. Furthermore, we demonstrated concordant results (Kappa > 0.75) between the genotypic method and phenotypic tests for the 546 clinical samples. The data presented in this study suggested that the genotypic method is a reliable assay for identifying blaKPC‐induced CRE in China. The results of the Sanger sequencing indicate that the developed method not only has high accuracy but also meets the need for rapid diagnosis, while the PCR method is prone to false negatives.

Conclusions

We successfully constructed a LAMP technique that can be used for auxiliary diagnosis of CRE, which is faster, cheaper, and more accurate than the PCR. It may therefore be routinely applied for detection of blaKPC producers in routine clinical laboratories.
Personal growth initiative as a buffer against suicide ideation severity in psychotherapy outpatients with depressive symptoms
Authors: Robitschek Christine , Cukrowicz Kelly , Brown Sarah L. , Ciavaglia Addison
Published: February 2022

Objective

Many people who die by suicide experience major depressive disorder (MDD), but most people with MDD do not die by suicide and many do not report thoughts of death or suicide. This cross‐sectional study examined the potential of personal growth initiative (PGI) skills to protect against suicide ideation among adult psychotherapy outpatients.

Method

Adult outpatients (N = 178) completed measures of suicide ideation severity (SI), depressive symptom severity (DEP), and PGI skills (PGI) at intake.

Results

Although higher DEP significantly correlated with higher suicide ideation, a significant DEP × PGI interaction, indicated significant positive relations between DEP and SI only when PGI was at or below the mean for this sample.

Conclusions

PGI skills may function as a protective factor against the development of suicide ideation even in the presence of severe depressive symptoms. This suggests that training PGI skills might prevent or reduce suicide ideation among depressed patients.
Cryogel‐based co‐culture of Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus buchneri towards phenyllactic acid bioproduction: fundamental hydrodynamics and biotransformation characteristics
Authors: Lou Xiaoling , Hou Dongjie , Chen Zhihong , Ma Yinxiang , Zhou Xiaoling , Guo Dali , Zhang Wei , Zhang Songhong , Yun Junxian
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Phenyllactic acid is an important monomer for bioplastics, food preservative, feed additive and pharmaceutical agent. However, bioproduction of phenyllactic acid suffers drawbacks regarding the high cost of substrates, poor efficiency and yield of fermentation or conversion, and therefore new bioproduction strategies need to be investigated.

RESULTS

In this work, bioproduction of phenyllactic acid was developed by employing semi‐hydrophobic cryogels as cell entrapment matrices to co‐culture Lactobacillus paracasei and L. buchneri strains, and the obtained cell‐loaded cryogels were used as biocatalysts in the biotransformation from phenylalanine. Flow characteristics and permeabilities of fermentation broths through cryogels, co‐culture performance and biotransformation characteristics were studied. Permeabilities of cell‐free fermentation broths through the cryogel bed were correlated as a function of concentrations of glucose and metabolites of organic acids. The flow rate versus pressure drop relationships for these bio‐based broths through cryogels were predicted successfully with a capillary‐based model. The cell growth was enhanced by cryogels and the maximum cell production of 40.6 g L−1 was achieved with cryogels. The maximum yield from phenylalanine of 1.0 mg mL−1 to phenyllactic acid was 39.6%, which was higher than that of 31.4% by co‐culture of L. casei and L. paracasei.

CONCLUSION

Flow of fermentation broths through cryogels is crucial to develop a novel cryogel‐based bioproduction strategy for phenyllactic acid and can be characterized by capillary‐based modeling. Semi‐hydrophobic cryogels could be an interesting class of immobilization matrices for high‐cell‐density co‐culture towards the green strategy with these new biocatalysts in phenyllactic acid bioproduction and thus have potential applications in industries. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
A novel CeO2/MIL101(Fe) heterojunction for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline under visible‐light irradiation
Authors: Chen Fangyan , Bian Kun , Li Hongshuang , Tang Yubin , Hao Chenchen , Shi Weilong
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

MIL101(Fe) has attracted growing attention as a potential new photocatalyst. However, the drawbacks of easy recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs result in unsatisfactory activity.

RESULTS

In this work, to enhance the photocatalytic activity of MIL101(Fe), CeO2 nanorods were attached on the surface of octahedral MIL101(Fe) to obtain a novel 1D/3D heterojunction CeO2/MIL101(Fe). The as‐synthesized samples were characterized by a series of methods. The photocatalytic activity of CeO2/MIL101(Fe) was investigated by photodegradation of tetracycline under visible‐light irradiation. Compared with pristine CeO2 and MIL101(Fe), the as‐prepared CeO2/MIL101(Fe) composite with CeO2 content of 10 wt% exhibited a superior photocatalytic activity, with a tetracycline (TC) degradation efficiency of 83.5% and a TOC removal rate of 55.7% within 120 min.

CONCLUSION

The enhanced photocatalytic performance is attributed to the efficient separation of photogenerated charge carriers resulting from the formation of type‐II heterojunction between CeO2 and MIL101(Fe). This work provides a new approach for the fabrication of MOF‐based photocatalysts with high activity. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Patterns of germline and somatic testing after universal tumor screening for Lynch syndrome: A clinical practice survey of active members of the Collaborative Group of the Americas on Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Hodan Rachel , Rodgers‐Fouche Linda , Arora Sanjeevani , Dominguez‐Valentin Mev , Kanth Priyanka , Katona Bryson W. , Mraz Kathryn A. , Roberts Maegan E. , Vilar Eduardo , Soto‐Azghani Cynthia M. , Brand Randall E , Esplin Edward D. , Perez Kimberly
Published: February 2022

Clinical guidelines recommend universal tumor screening (UTS) of colorectal and endometrial cancers for Lynch syndrome (LS). There are limited guidelines for how to integrate germline testing and somatic tumor testing after a mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) tumor is identified. We sought to characterize current practice patterns and barriers to preferred practice among clinical providers in high‐risk cancer programs. A clinical practice survey was sent to 423 active members of the Collaborative Group of the Americas on Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancer (CGA‐IGC) with a follow‐up survey sent to 103 clinician responders. The survey outlined clinical vignettes and asked respondents their preferred next test. The survey intended to assess: (1) the role of patient age and family history in risk assessment and (2) barriers to preferred genetic testing. Genetic test options included targeted germline testing based on dMMR expression, germline testing for LS, germline testing with a multigene cancer panel including LS, or paired tumor/germline testing including LS. In October 2020, 117 of 423 (28%) members completed the initial survey including 103 (88%) currently active clinicians. In April 2021, a follow‐up survey was sent to active clinicians, with 45 (44%) completing this second survey. After selecting their preferred next germline or paired tumor/germline tumor test based on the clinical vignette, 39% of respondents reported wanting to make a different choice for the initial genetic test without any testing barriers. The proportion of respondents choosing a different initial genetic test was dependent on the proband's age at diagnosis and specified family history. The reported barriers included patient's lack of insurance coverage, patient unable/unwilling to self‐pay for proposed testing, and inadequate tumor tissue. Responders reported insurance, financial constraints, and limited tumor tissue as influencing preferred genetic testing in high‐risk clinics, thus resulting in possible under‐diagnosis of LS and impacting potential surveillance and cascade testing of at‐risk relatives.
Rates of timely paracentesis for patients admitted to hospital with cirrhosis and ascites remain low but are unaffected by the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Aby Elizabeth S. , Lall Drishti , Vasdev Amrit , Mayer Adam , Olson Andrew P. J. , Lim Nicholas
Published: February 2022

For the first 6 months of the novel coronavirus‐19 (COVID‐19) pandemic, the hospital medicine procedure service at our center was temporarily unavailable. We assessed paracentesis rates and clinical outcomes for patients admitted with cirrhosis and ascites before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Two hundred and twenty‐four and 131 patients with cirrhosis and ascited were admitted to hospital before and during COVID‐19 respectively. Approximately 50.9% and 49.6% of patients underwent a paracentesis within 24 h pre‐ and mid‐pandemic, p = .83. No differences were observed for length‐of‐stay or 30‐day readmissions. GI consultation was associated with higher rates of paracentesis in both eras (p < .001 pre‐COVID‐19, and p = .01 COVID‐19). Changes due to the COVID‐19 pandemic did not result in changes to rates of timely paracentesis in patients admitted with cirrhosis and ascites. While involvement of gastroenterology may increase rates of paracentesis, further efforts are needed to optimize rates of timely paracentesis to positively impact clinical outcomes.
Synthesis of deuterium‐labeled CCR2 antagonist JNJ‐26131300, [4‐(1H‐indol‐ 3‐yl)‐piperidin‐1‐yl]‐{1‐[3‐(3,4,5‐trifluoro‐phenyl)‐acryloyl]‐piperidin‐4‐yl}‐acetic acid
Authors: Lin Ronghui , Gong Yong , Salter Rhys
Published: February 2022

Synthesis of multiple deuterium‐labeled CCR2 antagonist JNJ‐26131300, that is, [4‐(1H‐indol‐3‐yl)‐piperidin‐1‐yl]‐{1‐[3‐(3,4,5‐trifluoro‐phenyl)‐acryloyl]‐piperidin‐4‐yl}‐acetic acid, is described. First, condensation of indole‐D7 with 4‐piperidone produced 3‐(1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridin‐4‐yl)‐1H‐indole‐D5, which subsequently underwent catalytic hydrogenation to give 3‐piperidin‐4‐yl‐1H‐indole‐D5. Next, bromo‐{1‐[3‐(3,4,5‐trifluoro‐phenyl)‐acryloyl]‐piperidin‐4‐yl}‐acetic acid was prepared through multiple steps from 3‐(3,4,5‐trifluoro‐phenyl)‐acrylic acid and bromo‐piperidin‐4‐yl‐acetic acid ethyl ester. Nucleophilic coupling of 3‐piperidin‐4‐yl‐1H‐indole‐D5 with bromo‐{1‐[3‐(3,4,5‐trifluoro‐phenyl)‐acryloyl]‐piperidin‐4‐yl}‐acetic acid afforded the desired compound [4‐(1H‐indol‐3‐yl)‐piperidin‐1‐yl]‐{1‐[3‐(3,4,5‐trifluoro‐phenyl)‐acryloyl]‐piperidin‐4‐yl}‐acetic acid‐D5.
High‐yielding, automated radiosynthesis of [11C]martinostat using [11C]methyl triflate
Authors: Hopewell Robert , Jolly Dean , Li Qian Ying , Ross Karen , Tsai I‐Huang , Lacatus‐Samoila Monica , Soucy Jean‐Paul , Kobayashi Eliane , Rosa‐Neto Pedro , Massarweh Gassan
Published: February 2022

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) mediate epigenetic mechanisms implicated in a broad range of central nervous system dysfunction, including neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders. [11C]Martinostat allows in vivo quantification of class I/IIb HDACs and may be useful for the quantification of drug–occupancy relationship, facilitating drug development for disease modifying therapies. The present study reports a radiosynthesis of [11C]martinostat using [11C]methyl triflate in ethanol, as opposed to the originally described synthesis using [11C]methyl iodide and DMSO. [11C]Methyl triflate is trapped in a solution of 2 mg of precursor 1 dissolved in anhydrous ethanol (400 μl), reacted at ambient temperature for 5 min and purified by high‐performance liquid chromatography; 1.5–1.8 GBq (41–48 mCi; n = 3) of formulated [11C]martinostat was obtained from solid‐phase extraction using a hydrophilic–lipophilic cartridge in a radiochemical yield of 11.4% ± 1.1% (nondecay corrected to trapped [11C]MeI), with a molar activity of 369 ± 53 GBq/μmol (9.97 ± 1.3 Ci/μmol) at the end of synthesis (40 min) and validated for human use. This methodology was used at our production site to produce [11C]martinostat in sufficient quantities of activity to scan humans, including losses incurred from decay during pre‐release quality control testing.
The difference in clinical features and prognosis of severe adenoviral pneumonia in children of different ages
Authors: Wang Xia , Tan Xiangsheng , Li Qubei
Published: February 2022

This study aims to analyze the difference in clinical features and prognosis of severe adenovirus pneumonia (SAP) in children of different ages and analyze the risk factors for poor prognosis in children with SAP. A retrospective observational study was performed to describe the clinical features and analyze the risk factors for death and postinfectious bronchiolitis obliterans (PIBO) in 303 children hospitalized with SAP from January 2015 through to January 2020. The participants were divided into four age groups: <6 months (n = 25, 8.3%); 6–12 months (n = 98, 32.3%); 12–36 months (n = 118, 38.9%); and >36 months (n = 62, 20.5%). Fever rate, peak, and duration were the lowest in the <6 months group, while no significant difference was found among other age groups. Serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase and a load of adenovirus were the lowest in the <6 months group, and the highest in the 6–12 and 12–36 months groups, respectively. A total of 80.9% of patients recovered, 3.3% of patients died, and 15.8% of patients were diagnosed with PIBO. The mortality rate showed no significance between age groups. The >36 months group had the highest recovery rate and the lowest incidence of PIBO, while the 6–12 months group had the lowest recovery rate and the highest incidence of PIBO. Independent risk factors for PIBO among all participants from the four groups were invasive mechanical ventilation, administration of intravenous steroids, duration of fever, and male gender. Independent risk factors for death among all participants from the four groups were hypercapnia, low albumin levels, and invasive mechanical ventilation. Risk factor analysis of different ages was not possible due to the limited sample size. The morbidity, clinical features, and prognosis of SAP are affected by children's ages. Pediatric patients with a longer duration of fever, hypercapnia, low serum albumin levels, invasive mechanical ventilation, and intravenous steroids use are more likely to develop a poor prognosis in SAP, especially if the patient is male.
BET protein inhibition in macrophages enhances dorsal root ganglion neurite outgrowth in female mice
Authors: Palomés‐Borrajo Georgina , Navarro Xavier , Penas Clara
Published: February 2022

Peripheral nerve regeneration is limited after injury, especially in humans, due to the large distance the axons have to grow in the limbs. This process is highly dependent on the expression of neuroinflammatory factors produced by macrophages and glial cells. Given the importance of the epigenetic BET proteins on inflammation, we aimed to ascertain if BET inhibition may have an effect on axonal outgrowth. For this purpose, we treated female mice with JQ1 or vehicle after sciatic nerve crush injury and analyzed target reinnervation. We also used dorsal root ganglion (DRG) culture explants to analyze the effects of direct BET inhibition or treatment with conditioned medium from BET‐inhibited macrophages. We observed that although JQ1 produced an enhancement of IL‐4, IL‐13, and GAP43 expression, it did not have an effect on sensory or motor reinnervation after crush injury in vivo. In contrast, JQ1 reduced neurite growth when interacting directly with DRG neurons ex vivo, whereas conditioned medium from JQ1‐treated macrophages promoted neurite outgrowth. Therefore, BET‐inhibited macrophages secrete pro‐regenerative factors that induce neurite outgrowth, and that may counteract the direct inhibition of BET proteins in neurons in vivo. Finally, we observed an activation of the STAT6 pathway in DRG explants treated with conditioned medium from JQ1‐treated macrophages. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that BET protein inhibition in macrophages provides a mechanism to enhance axonal outgrowth. However, specific targeting of BET proteins to macrophages will be needed to efficiently enhance functional recovery after nerve injury.
Sous vide processing: a viable approach for the assurance of microbial food safety
Authors: Onyeaka Helen , Nwabor Ozioma , Jang Siwon , Obileke KeChrist , Hart Abarasi , Anumudu Christian , Miri Taghi
Published: February 2022

As consumer needs change, innovative food processing techniques are being developed that have minimal impact on food quality and ensure its microbiological safety. Sous vide (SV) is an emerging technology of cooking foods in vacuum pouches at specific temperatures, which results in even heat distribution. Presented here is an overview of the current state of the art in the application of SV techniques for processing and preserving foods. Unlike the conventional thermal food processing approach, the precise nature of the SV method improves food quality, nutrition and shelf‐life while destroying microorganisms. Foods processed by SV are usually subjected to temperatures between 50 and 100 °C. Although sufficient for food preparation/processing, its effectiveness in eliminating microbial pathogens, including viruses, parasites, vegetative and spore forms of bacteria, is limited. However, the inactivation of spore‐forming microbes can be enhanced by combining the technique with other non‐thermal methods that exert negligible impact on the nutritional, flavour and sensory characteristics of foods. In addition to exploring the mechanism of action of SV technology, the challenges related to its implementation in the food industry are also discussed. SV method potential, applications, and impacts on spore‐forming microbes and spore inactivation are explored in this review. Through the debate and discussion presented, further research and industrial applications of this food processing method could be guided. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Statistical investigation of the bioprocess conditions of alkali combined twin‐screw extrusion pretreatment to enhance fractionation and enzymatic hydrolysis of bulgur bran
Authors: Yağcı Sibel , Sutay Kocabaş Didem , Çalışkan Rukiye , Özbek Hatice Neval
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Bulgur bran (BB) is a potential source for the production of value‐added products such as fermentable sugars and xylooligosaccharides (XOs). In this study, alkali combined twin‐screw extrusion pretreatment was performed and statistically optimized to enhance fractionation and enzymatic hydrolysis of BB. The pretreatment conditions (barrel temperature, screw speed and alkali impregnation) were optimized by Box–Behnken design (BBD) to obtain the highest hemicellulose separation from BB. The obtained fractions were analyzed for the production of fermentable sugars and XOs.

RESULTS

The results revealed that twin‐screw extrusion of BB performed at 67 °C barrel temperature and 250 rpm screw speed after alkali impregnation at 0.02 g alkali g−1 biomass concentration provided 40.4% higher hemicellulose separation yield compared to the untreated BB. Alkali combined twin‐screw extrusion pretreatment increased the enzymatic hydrolysis yield of BB fourfold, whereas a 13‐fold increase was achieved after the separation of hemicellulose from pretreated BB. Xylose (X1)‐free xylobiose (X2) was the main product after xylanase hydrolysis of hemicellulose fraction. SEM images confirmed the morphological modifications in BB, which were in agreement with the enhanced fractionation performance and the higher enzymatic hydrolysis yield.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggested that pretreatment by alkali combined twin‐screw extrusion followed by alkali extraction could be a reliable and effective process for fractionation of BB and production of fermentable sugars and XOs. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Zein enhanced the digestive stability of five citrus flavonoids via different binding interaction
Authors: Li Wenfeng , Zhang Xiaohua , Tan Si , Li Xueping , Gu Mengyuan , Tang Mengqi , Zhao Xin , Wu Yingmei
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Zein is commonly used to construct food flavonoid delivery systems. This study investigated the effect and mechanism of zein on the digestive stability of five citrus flavonoids, namely hesperetin (HET), hesperidin (HED), neohesperidin (NHD), naringenin (NEN), and naringin (NIN).

RESULTS

Zein enhanced the digestive stability of the five citrus flavonoids, especially that of HET and NEN, during digestion in the stomach and small intestine. Fluorescence spectroscopy results suggested that citrus flavonoids spontaneously quenched the endogenous fluorescence of zein in static quenching mode. The binding of HET, HED and NHD to zein was driven respectively by electrostatic, hydrophobic and electrostatic interaction. However, Van der Waals' force and hydrogen (H)‐bond interaction represented the primary driving force for binding NEN, and NIN to zein to form complexes. The binding of the five citrus flavonoids to zein also caused a diverse bathochromic shift in ultraviolet absorbance. Analysis using Fourier‐transform infrared and Raman spectroscopy revealed that the binding behavior of the five citrus flavonoids had different effects on changes in the secondary structures, disulfide bonds, and tyrosine exposure of zein. The results were also partially verified by molecular dynamic simulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Zein enhanced the digestive stability of the five citrus flavonoids via different binding interactions that was due to the difference in molecular structure of citrus flavonoids. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Development of a layered bacterial nanocellulose‐PHBV composite for food packaging
Authors: A G Soares da Silva Francisco , Matos Mariana , Dourado Fernando , A M Reis Maria , C Branco Pedro , Poças Fátima , Gama Miguel
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Most of the current materials used in food packaging are synthetic and non‐degradable, raising environmental issues derived from the accumulation of plastics in landfills/waterways. The food industry increasingly needs eco‐friendly sustainable materials that meet food‐packaging requirements. Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), a biopolymer obtained by fermentation, offers very good mechanical properties and the ability to carry and deliver active substances. However, its water‐vapor permeability is too high for food‐packaging applications. In this work, a layered biodegradable composite based on BNC and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHBV) was produced, attempting to improve its overall barrier properties. Polyhydroxyalkanoate is a biopolymer with high degree of hydrophobicity and biodegradability, and is also obtained by fermentation. Wet BNC membranes produced by static culture were plasticized by impregnation of solutions of either glycerol (BNCgly) or polyethylene glycol (MW600) (BNCPEG). The plasticized BNC was then coated with PHBV solution dissolved in formic acid, and oven dried at 148 °C.

RESULTS

Overall, PHBV coating on plasticized BNC reduced water vapor permeability significantly (from 0.990 to 0.032 g.μm.m−2.day−1.Pa−1) under 50% relative humidity. It increased the hydrophobicity (contact angle from 10–40° to 80–90°) but decreased the stiffness (from 3.1 GPa to 1.3 Gpa) of the composite.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the mechanical and barrier properties of the layered composite obtained were considered suitable for food‐packaging applications. The plasticizing (with glycerol or polyethylene glycol) of BNC significantly improved the mechanical performance and the PHBV coating reduced the water affinity (vapor and liquid state) on BNC. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Study on sampling scheme for detecting mycotoxin during wheat storage
Authors: Yi Yanjie , Fan Kun , Shan Youtian , Fu Qianzhen , Zhou Xianqing , Zhang Yurong , Zhang Huiru
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Mycotoxin produced by mould is one of the most serious contamination sources in food security. Safe storage of grain has become more important to control food security. Currently, there is no officially approved or standardized sampling scheme for detecting mycotoxin in grain storage worldwide.

RESULTS

In this study, deoxynivalenol (DON) was taken as a typical mycotoxin in stored wheat to be detected. Population density of corn weevil could not significantly increase wheat moisture, but wheat moisture was highly significantly and positively correlated with DON content (P < 0.01). Corn weevil density significantly increased the DON content in wheat. DON contamination degree was mainly distributed in the region of 14–20 cm below the surface layer of wheat. In the process of ventilation and dehumidification during the storage period, moisture of wheat decreased slightly with the extension of ventilation, but the DON content in wheat increased significantly. Combined with the analysis of ventilation, DON content in the upper layer and H1 position, where the wind direction is not easy to reach, increased significantly.

CONCLUSION

Areas with high insect population density (14–20 cm below the surface layer of stored wheat) and low ventilation and high humidification (H1 position in the upper layer) should be taken as the key cutting sample areas for detecting mycotoxin during the period of grain storage. This study provides for the first time a scientific basis for the standardization of the wheat sampling scheme to monitor mycotoxin contamination during wheat storage. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Edible oleogels stabilized solely by stigmasterol: effect of oil type and gelator concentration
Authors: Liu Yugang , Ma Shuangshuang , Xia Huiping , Guo Shiyin , Zeng Chaoxi
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Phytosterols are considered to be one of the most promising gelators for obtaining oleogel because of their additional health benefits and natural coexist with vegetable oils. Previous studies have confirmed that individual phytosterols are not capable of structuring vegetable oils unless they act synergistically with other components. However, based on the self‐assembly properties of stigmasterol (ST) in organic solvents, we speculate that it can also structure vegetable oils as a gelator alone.

RESULTS

For the first time, the present study confirmed the feasibility of using ST alone as a gelator for structuring of vegetable oils, including rapeseed oil (RSO), olive oil (OLO) and flaxseed oil (FSO). RSO had the lowest ST gelation concentration (4%, w/w), and the oil‐binding capacity and firmness value of the oleogels were the highest. The rheological results showed that all the samples were gelatinous (G′ > G″). The results of differential scanning calorimeter and X‐ray diffraction further confirmed that the properties of RSO‐based oleogels are superior to those prepared by OLO and FSO. The microscopic results also confirmed that the crystal structure of RSO oleogels was more uniform, smaller and more densely distributed.

CONCLUSION

The structural properties of the oleogels were positively correlated with the ST concentration, and various analysis indicators showed that the performance of the oleogel based on RSO was better than that of OLO and FSO. In summary, the present study used ST as a gelator to successfully prepare oleogels with excellent properties, which provides a feasible reference for researchers in related fields. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Focal osteoporosis defect is associated with vertebral compression fracture prevalence in a bone mineral density‐independent manner
Authors: Li Chentian , Ma Chi , Zhuo Xianglong , Li Li , Li Bing , Li Songjian , Lu William W.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Focal osteoporosis defect has shown a high association with the bone fragility and osteoporotic fracture prevalence. However, no routine computed tomography (CT)‐based vertebral focal osteoporosis defect measurement and its association with vertebral compression fracture (VCF) were discussed yet. This study aimed to develop a routine CT‐based measurement method for focal osteoporosis defect quantification, and to assess its association with the VCF prevalence.

Materials and Methods

A total of 205 cases who underwent routine CT scanning, were retrospectively reviewed and enrolled into either the VCF or the control group. The focal bone mineral content loss (focal BMC loss), measured as the cumulated demineralization within bone void space, was proposed for focal osteoporosis defect quantification. Its scan‐rescan reproducibility and its correlation with trabecular bone mineral density (BMD) and apparent microarchitecture parameters were evaluated. The association between focal BMC loss and the prevalence of VCF was studied by logistic regression.

Results

The measurement of focal BMC loss showed high reproducibility (RMSSD = 0.011 mm, LSC = 0.030 mm, ICC = 0.97), and good correlation with focal bone volume fraction (r = 0.79, P < 0.001), trabecular bone separation (r = 0.76, P < 0.001), but poor correlation with trabecular BMD (r = 0.37, P < 0.001). The focal BMC loss was significantly higher in the fracture group than the control (1.03 ± 0.13 vs. 0.93 ± 0.11 mm; P < 0.001), and was associated with prevalent VCF (1.87, 95% CI = 1.31–2.65, P < 0.001) independent of trabecular BMD level.

Discussion

As a surrogate measure of focal osteoporosis defect, focal BMC Loss independently associated with the VCF prevalence. It suggests that focal osteoporosis defect is a common manifestation that positively contributed to compression fracture risk and can be quantified with routine CT using focal BMC Loss.
Characterization of a convection‐based support microstructure through a flow resistance parameter
Authors: Podgornik Aleš
Published: February 2022

Modern convection‐based supports differ substantially in pore size, porosity, and microstructure topology. Due to such variability, it is challenging to evaluate the contribution of a particular microstructure topology on flow resistance. We demonstrated that the flow resistance parameter () introduced decades ago can be used as a criterion to evaluate the effect of microstructure topology on a pressure drop when the pore size is used as a characteristic support dimension. Furthermore, the value of simple cubic packing was calculated over the entire range of open porosity and compared to the values determined for pressure drop models derived for particular convection‐based supports and experimental values of various convection‐based supports from the literature. It was shown that different convection‐based supports become clustered into distinct groups when plotted according to their and open porosity values, allowing their discrimination.
“You're going to look at me differently”: A qualitative study of disclosure experiences among survivors of military sexual assault
Authors: Rufa Anne K. , Carroll Kathryn K. , Lofgreen Ashton , Klassen Brian , Held Philip , Zalta Alyson K.
Published: February 2022

Most survivors of sexual assault who disclose their experience do so within their social network. Prior research on disclosure among individuals who experience sexual trauma has mainly focused on childhood sexual abuse, college‐aged women, or disclosure to formal sources of support (e.g., treatment providers). There is limited research on disclosure among veteran survivors of military sexual assault (MSA). The current qualitative study aimed to explore the disclosure experiences of treatment‐seeking survivors of MSA. Participants were 17 veterans (n = 13 women, n = 4 men), aged 33–65 years, who reported experiencing MSA. During semistructured interviews, participants were asked about their experiences disclosing MSA to informal support persons (e.g., family members, partners, friends). A narrative thematic analysis identified 11 themes that emerged throughout different aspects of the disclosure, including (a) preparation and reason for disclosure (reactive or spontaneous disclosures, disclosure as an explanation/obligation), (b) expectations about the disclosure experience (no expectations, negative expectations grounded in socialized beliefs, positive expectations based on specific relationships, mismatch between experience and expectation), (c) the actual disclosure experience (negative experiences of personalization, supportive responses, share shame), and (d) military context (disclosing to another member of the military, reporting dynamics). Additional subthemes were nested within these categories. The findings indicated common experiences across participants, particularly regarding disclosure rationale. Key differences were largely influenced by contextual factors (e.g., response of the disclosure recipient). These findings hold implications for clinicians working with survivors of MSA who are preparing for and coping with the consequences of disclosure.
Gender differences in disorders comorbid with posttraumatic stress disorder among U.S. Sailors and Marines
Authors: Walter Kristen H. , Levine Jordan A. , Madra Naju J. , Beltran Jessica L. , Glassman Lisa H. , Thomsen Cynthia J.
Published: February 2022

Psychological comorbidity, the co‐occurrence of mental health disorders, is more often the rule than the exception among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research shows that prevalence estimates for specific psychological disorders differ by gender; however, little is known about whether these patterns persist in the presence of a comorbid PTSD diagnosis. This study examined gender differences in prevalence estimates for conditions comorbid with PTSD using medical records for 523,626 active duty U.S. Sailors and Marines who entered the military over an 8‐year period. Using chi‐square tests of independence, we detected statistically significant gender differences for specific comorbid conditions in the subsample of 9,447 service members with a PTSD diagnosis. Women were more likely than men to have PTSD with comorbid adjustment, OR = 1.35; depressive, OR = 1.71; and generalized anxiety or other anxiety disorders, OR = 1.16, with the largest effects for eating, OR = 12.60, and personality disorders, OR = 2.97. In contrast, women were less likely than men to have a diagnosis of PTSD with comorbid alcohol use, OR = 0.69, and drug use disorders, OR = 0.72, with the largest effects for insomnia, OR = 0.42, and traumatic brain injury, OR = 0.17. No significant gender differences emerged for comorbid bipolar, obsessive–compulsive, panic/phobic, psychotic, or somatoform/dissociative disorders, ps = .029–.314. The results show gender differences in conditions comorbid with PTSD generally align with internalizing and externalizing dimensions. Differences in comorbidities with PTSD between women and men could have implications for treatment development and delivery.
Performers' Perceptions of Vocal Function During Oral Steroid Treatment of Vocal Fold Edema
Authors: Murphy Estes Christine , Chadwick Keith , Sadoughi Babak , Andreadis Katerina , Sussman Scott , Sulica Lucian
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Acute vocal fold edema (VFE) is often a consequence of illness, allergy, or voice overuse, causing dysphonia. Although VFE typically resolves with voice rest and treatment of predisposing causes, oral glucocorticoids are often considered for performers with imminent performance demands. There are limited data about performers' perceptions of vocal change during treatment and how this relates to their ability to perform. This study aims to examine performers' self‐perceptions of vocal function with steroid treatment.

Methods

Fifty‐five performers (34 F; 21 M) diagnosed with VFE who chose treatment with a 6‐day methylprednisolone taper were prospectively assessed. They completed the Evaluation of the Ability to Sing Easily (EASE) and reported on their voice use, regimen, performance obligations, and ability to perform. Findings were compared between Day 1 and Day 6 using paired t‐tests and nonparametric Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests.

Results

Nearly all subjects completed scheduled performances without interruption. Following treatment, all subscales of the EASE were decreased at Day 6 (Vocal Function 29.78–20.59; Pathologic Risk Indicator 26.60–17.33; Vocal Concerns 6.10–4.20). These differences were statistically significant (p < 0.0001) and greater in subjects with performances scheduled and subjects who consistently completed vocal warmups. These findings demonstrate significant improvement in several facets of performers' self‐perception of function.

Conclusion

Subjects reported significant improvement in vocal function with oral steroid treatment and were able to meet performance obligations. It remains important that steroids are not prescribed without laryngeal examination. Examination should be repeated when dysphonia persists, recurs swiftly, or when patients seek repeated treatment, as there may be increased risk of adverse outcomes, and continued steroid use may mask underlying chronic pathology that is best treated by other means.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:2434–2441, 2022
Effects of Different Voice Rest on Vocal Function After Microlaryngeal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Chi Hua‐Wei , Cho Hsiao‐Chien , Yang An‐Yun , Chen Yong‐Chen , Chen Jeng‐Wen
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To compare the results of a voice handicap index (VHI) scale and acoustic parameters in patients who underwent microlaryngeal surgery followed by either short‐duration (voice rest for <7 days) or long‐duration (≥7 days) voice rest.

Study Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched for articles published before March 1, 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that measured the voice outcomes of patients after different durations and extents of postoperative voice restriction were included in the meta‐analysis.

Results

Four RCTs comprising 112 patients were included in the quantitative meta‐analysis. Compared with the long‐duration voice rest group, the short‐duration group exhibited comparable VHI scores (mean difference [MD], −7.01; 95% CI, −16.12 to 2.09; p = 0.13), maximum phonation time (MD, −2.58; 95% CI, −5.42 to 0.26; p = 0.07), and acoustic variables of jitter (MD, −1.25; 95% CI, −3.43 to 0.94; p = 0.26) and shimmer (MD, −0.79; 95% CI, −2.08 to 0.51; p = 0.24). Subgroup analysis for benign pathology and cold instruments studies demonstrated significantly better VHI scores (MD, −14.45; 95% CI, −26.19 to −2.72; p = 0.02 and MD, −15.98; 95% CI, −28.52 to −3.44; p = 0.01, respectively) in the short‐duration group.

Conclusions

The limited evidence does not demonstrate benefit in voice outcomes from long‐duration voice rest and suggests potential unfavorable effects on compliance and quality of life, providing a rationale for short‐duration voice rest after microlaryngeal surgery. More studies are required to determine the optimal duration and extent of postoperative voice rest.

Level of Evidence

1 Laryngoscope, 133:154–161, 2023
Food web structure and intraguild predation affect ecosystem functioning in an established plankton model
Authors: Prowe A. E. Friederike , Su Bei , Nejstgaard Jens C. , Schartau Markus
Published: February 2022

Understanding how marine microbial food webs and their ecosystem functions are changing is crucial for projections of the future ocean. Often, simplified food web models are employed and their solutions are only evaluated against available observations of plankton biomass. With such an approach, it remains unclear how different underlying trophic interactions affect interpretations of plankton dynamics and functioning. Here, we quantitatively compare four hypothetical food webs to data from an existing mesocosm experiment using a refined version of the Minimum Microbial Food Web model. Food web representations range from separated food chains to complex food webs featuring additional trophic links including intraguild predation (IGP). Optimization against observations and taking into account model complexity ensures a fair comparison of the different food webs. Although the different optimized model food webs capture the observations similarly well, projected ecosystem functions differ depending on the underlying food web structure and the presence or absence of IGP. Mesh‐like food webs dominated by the microbial loop yield higher recycling and net primary production (NPP) than models dominated by the classical diatom‐copepod food chain. A high degree of microzooplankton IGP increases NPP and organic matter recycling, but decreases trophic transfer efficiency (TTE) to copepods. Copepod production, the trophic role of copepods, and TTE are more sensitive to initial biomass changes in chain‐like than in complex food webs. Measurements resolving trophic interactions, in particular those quantifying IGP, remain essential to reduce model uncertainty and allow sound conclusions for ecosystem functioning in plankton ecosystems.
Toward an ontology of collaborative learning healthcare systems
Authors: Vinson Alexandra H. , Seid Michael , Gamel Breck , Saeed Shehzad , Fureman Brandy , Cronin Susan C. , Bates Katherine , Hartley David
Published: February 2022

Objective

To establish a basis for a domain ontology ‐ a formal, explicit specification of a shared conceptualization ‐ of collaborative learning healthcare systems (CLHSs) in order to facilitate measurement, explanation, and improvement.

Methods

We adapted the “Methontology” approach to begin building an ontology of CLHSs. We specified the purpose of an ontology, acquired domain knowledge via literature review, conceptualized a common framework of CLHSs using a grounded approach, refined these concepts based on expert panel input, and illustrated concept application via four cases.

Results

The set of concepts identified as important to include in an ontology includes goals, values, structure, actors, environment, and products. To establish this set of concepts, we gathered input from content experts in two ways. First, expert panel methods were used to elicit feedback on these concepts and to test the elicitation of terms for the vocabulary of the Values concept. Second, from these discussions we developed a mapping exercise to test the intuitiveness of the concepts, requesting that network leaders from four CLHSs complete a mapping exercise to associate characteristics of their networks with the high‐level concepts, building the vocabulary for each concept in a grounded fashion. We also solicited feedback from these participants on the experience of completing the mapping exercise, finding that the exercise is acceptable and could aid in CLHS development and collaboration. Respondents identified opportunities to improve the operational definitions of each concept to ensure that corresponding vocabularies are distinct and non‐overlapping.

Discussion

Our results provide a foundation for developing a formal, explicit shared conceptualization of CLHSs. Once developed, such a tool can be useful for measurement, explanation, and improvement. Further work, including alignment to a top‐level ontology, expanding the vocabulary, and defining relations between vocabulary is required to formally build out an ontology for these uses.
THE ORGANIZATIONAL IMPORTANCE OF HUMAN CONNECTION IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Authors: Seth Nitin
Published: February 2022

The author, Chief Executive Officer of Incedo Inc., a high‐growth technology services firm; writes about “three framing constructs” in understanding Artificial intelligence (AI), how it will affect jobs and the labor force, and the role of human connection. The constructs, in the author’s words are first; we need to realize and understand how jobs will be redefined by AI. Second, what are new skills that humans need to learn as a result of the changes brought about by AI and the redefinition of work? Third, this is the “and” part of AI AND humanity, how can AI help improve human interactions? For instance, in point one, he contends “As it changes existing jobs and creates new ones, the workforce will have to undertake ongoing training and education to ensure their experience and skills integrate seamlessly with the advances in AI, and remain in sync with the dynamic human resources market.” In point two: “Organizations can play their part by giving their employees incentives and time to improve their skills.” And in point three: “The bottom line is that AI definitely has a place in this world just as humans do. All the apocalyptic scenarios of a showdown between machines and humans don’t stand a chance.”