bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacognostical Standardization, Chromatograhic and Spectral Analysis of Methanolic Extract of Echinops echinatus Linn. Roots and Fractions
Authors: Younus Muhammad , Khan Farrakh Zia , Hasan Muhammad Mohtasheem ul , Shirazi Jafir Hussain , Jamil Qazi Adnan , Khan Zahid , Shaheen Ghazala , Hanif Muhammad , Ghaffari Muhammad Abuzar , Abdullah Muhammad , Nazir Imran
Published: May 2021

Echinops echinatus Linn. (Fam. Asteraceae) possesses medicinal value a good deal. The plant is a nerve tonic that stimulates liver and increases appetite, and is effective as anti-inflammatory and in jaundice. Objective of the current study was to standardize  Echinops echinatus (E. echinatus), both macroscopically and microscopically. Pharmacognostic standardization with the help of different physicochemical parameters and fluorescence analysis was performed according to the WHO guidelines. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of crude methanolic extract (EME) and various fractions was done. TLC and column chromatographic techniques were employed for presence of various phytoconstituents. Five compounds were isolated from EME using column chromatography, which were characterized by techniques like FTIR and UV. The isolated purified compounds showed different hRf values ranging from 67 to 94. Results of this study may serve as biochemical markers for this medicinally important plant in the pharma industry and plant systematic studies. The current work will help in identification of the species pharmacognostically and anatomically; and phytochemical analysis may help in screening of active constituents responsible for the activity.  The study will serve as a reference for correct identification and in checking any type of adulteration. This may also help in differentiating this species from closely related species of the same genus and family.
Detection and relevance of epigenetic markers on ctDNA: recent advances and future outlook
Authors: Lianidou Evi
Published: May 2021

Liquid biopsy, a minimally invasive approach, is a highly powerful clinical tool for the real‐time follow‐up of cancer and overcomes many limitations of tissue biopsies. Epigenetic alterations have a high potential to provide a valuable source of innovative biomarkers for cancer, owing to their stability, frequency, and noninvasive accessibility in bodily fluids. Numerous DNA methylation markers are now tested in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) as potential biomarkers, in various types of cancer. DNA methylation in combination with liquid biopsy is very powerful in identifying circulating epigenetic biomarkers of clinical importance. Blood‐based epigenetic biomarkers have a high potential for early detection of cancer since DNA methylation in plasma can be detected early during cancer pathogenesis. In this review, we summarize the latest findings on DNA methylation markers in ctDNA for early detection, prognosis, minimal residual disease, risk of relapse, treatment selection, and resistance, for breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer.
Quantitative signal properties from standardized MRIs correlate with multiple sclerosis disability
Authors: Brier Matthew R. , Snyder Abraham Z. , Tanenbaum Aaron , Rudick Richard A. , Fisher Elizabeth , Jones Stephen , Shimony Joshua S. , Cross Anne H. , Benzinger Tammie L. S. , Naismith Robert T.
Published: May 2021

Objective

To enable use of clinical magnetic resonance images (MRIs) to quantify abnormalities in normal appearing (NA) white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM) in multiple sclerosis (MS) and to determine associations with MS‐related disability. Identification of these abnormalities heretofore has required specialized scans not routinely available in clinical practice.

Methods

We developed an analytic technique which normalizes image intensities based on an intensity atlas for quantification of WM and GM abnormalities in standardized MRIs obtained with clinical sequences. Gaussian mixture modeling is applied to summarize image intensity distributions from T1‐weighted and 3D‐FLAIR (T2‐weighted) images from 5010 participants enrolled in a multinational database of MS patients which collected imaging, neuroperformance and disability measures.

Results

Intensity distribution metrics distinguished MS patients from control participants based on normalized non‐lesional signal differences. This analysis revealed non‐lesional differences between relapsing MS versus progressive MS subtypes. Further, the correlation between our non‐lesional measures and disability was approximately three times greater than that between total lesion volume and disability, measured using the patient derived disease steps. Multivariate modeling revealed that measures of extra‐lesional tissue integrity and atrophy contribute uniquely, and approximately equally, to the prediction of MS‐related disability.

Interpretation

These results support the notion that non‐lesional abnormalities correlate more strongly with MS‐related disability than lesion burden and provide new insight into the basis of abnormalities in NA WM. Non‐lesional abnormalities distinguish relapsing from progressive MS but do not distinguish between progressive subtypes suggesting a common progressive pathophysiology. Image intensity parameters and existing biomarkers each independently correlate with MS‐related disability.
Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 2F associated with biallelic HSPB1 mutations
Authors: Abati Elena , Magri Stefania , Meneri Megi , Manenti Giulia , Velardo Daniele , Balistreri Francesca , Pisciotta Chiara , Saveri Paola , Bresolin Nereo , Comi Giacomo Pietro , Ronchi Dario , Pareyson Davide , Taroni Franco , Corti Stefania
Published: May 2021

Objective

This work aims to expand knowledge regarding the genetic spectrum of HSPB1‐related diseases. HSPB1 is a gene encoding heat shock protein 27, and mutations in HSPB1 have been identified as the cause of axonal Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) disease type 2F and distal hereditary motor neuropathy (dHMN).

Methods

Two patients with axonal sensorimotor neuropathy underwent detailed clinical examinations, neurophysiological studies, and next‐generation sequencing with subsequent bioinformatic prioritization of genetic variants and in silico analysis of the likely causal mutation.

Results

The HSPB1 p.S135F and p.R136L mutations were identified in homozygosis in the two affected individuals. Both mutations affect the highly conserved alpha‐crystallin domain and have been previously described as the cause of severe CMT2F/dHMN, showing a strictly dominant inheritance pattern.

Interpretation

Thus, we report for the first time two cases of biallelic HSPB1 p.S135F and p.R136L mutations in two families.
Foot and Ankle Problems in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2019: Still an Important Issue
Authors: Simonsen Morten Bilde , Hørslev‐Petersen Kim , Cöster Maria C. , Jensen Carsten , Bremander Ann
Published: May 2021

Objective

To study the prevalence of foot pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and whether including a 12‐joint foot count in addition to the 28‐joint count (from the Disease Activity Score 28 [DAS28]) improved detection of foot or ankle pain. In addition, the association between the self‐reported foot and ankle score (SEFAS), patient‐reported function, and disease‐specific factors was studied.

Methods

Physician‐reported data (swollen/tender 12‐joint foot count, DAS28, and medication) and patient‐reported data (foot/ankle pain, physical function, global health, and SEFAS) were assessed during a clinical visit. Data were analyzed with t test, χ2 tests, and regression analysis.

Results

A total of 320 patients with RA were included (mean age 63 years, SD 13 years; 73% women), of whom 69% reported foot or ankle pain. Patients who reported foot or ankle pain had a lower mean age and worse disease activity, general pain, function, and global health (P ≤ 0.016), and fewer were in remission (50% versus 75%; P < 0.001) compared with patients without foot pain. The 12‐joint foot count identified 3.2% and 9.5% additional patients with swollen and tender joints, respectively, compared with the 28‐joint count. The SEFAS was associated with walking problems (β = −2.733; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −3.963 to −1.503) and worse function (β = −3.634; 95% CI = −5.681 to −1.587) but not with joint inflammation severity.

Conclusion

The prevalence of foot or ankle pain in patients with RA is high. The 12‐joint foot count had minor effects on detecting patients with foot pain. However, the SEFAS contributed additional information on foot problems that was not identified by joint examinations alone.
Passivation Layers in Lithium and Sodium Batteries: Potential Profiles, Stabilities, and Voltage Drops
Authors: Xiao Chuanlian , Usiskin Robert , Maier Joachim
Published: May 2021

The profiles of the decisive thermodynamic potentials in a battery are analyzed with emphasis on the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) passivation layers that form. Consequences for growth and chemical stability are discussed. The extreme cases of an artificial SEI and a thermodynamically fully defined in situ SEI are distinguished. The analysis also includes the open‐circuit voltage drop over the combination SEI/electrolyte. The treatment is rigorous for the assumed simplified conditions (constant transport coefficients, pseudo‐1D geometry, and absence of space charge zones and structural complications). In the last section, more realistic situations are addressed on a less quantitative level. The results can also be applied to fuel cells or electrolyzers.
Decoupling Minimal Surface Metamaterial Properties Through Multi‐Material Hyperbolic Tilings
Authors: Callens Sebastien J. P. , Arns Christoph H. , Kuliesh Alina , Zadpoor Amir A.
Published: May 2021

Rapid advances in additive manufacturing have kindled widespread interest in the rational design of metamaterials with unique properties over the past decade. However, many applications require multi‐physics metamaterials, where multiple properties are simultaneously optimized. This is challenging since different properties, such as mechanical and mass transport properties, typically impose competing requirements on the nano‐/micro‐/meso‐architecture of metamaterials. Here, a parametric metamaterial design strategy that enables independent tuning of the effective permeability and elastic properties is proposed. Hyperbolic tiling theory is applied to devise simple templates, based on which triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) are partitioned into hard and soft regions. Through computational analyses, it is demonstrated how the decoration of hard, soft, and void phases within the TPMS substantially enhances their permeability–elasticity property space and offers high tunability in the elastic properties and anisotropy at constant permeability. Also shown is that this permeability–elasticity balance is well captured using simple scaling laws. The proposed concept is demonstrated through multi‐material additive manufacturing of representative specimens. The approach, which is generalizable to other designs, offers a route towards multi‐physics metamaterials that need to simultaneously carry a load and enable mass transport, such as load‐bearing heat exchangers or architected tissue‐substituting meta‐biomaterials.
Hydrodynamic Mixing Tunes the Stiffness of Proteoglycan‐Mimicking Physical Hydrogels
Authors: Warren James P. , Miles Danielle E. , Kapur Nikil , Wilcox Ruth K. , Beales Paul A.
Published: May 2021

Self‐assembling hydrogels are promising materials for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. However, designing hydrogels that replicate the 3–4 order of magnitude variation in soft tissue mechanics remains a major challenge. Here hybrid hydrogels are investigated formed from short self‐assembling β‐fibril peptides, and the glycosaminoglycan chondroitin sulfate (CS), chosen to replicate physical aspects of proteoglycans, specifically natural aggrecan, which provides structural mechanics to soft tissues. Varying the peptide:CS compositional ratio (1:2, 1:10, or 1:20) can tune the mechanics of the gel by one to two orders of magnitude. In addition, it is demonstrated that at any fixed composition, the gel shear modulus can be tuned over approximately two orders of magnitude through varying the initial vortex mixing time. This tuneability arises due to changes in the mesoscale structure of the gel network (fibril width, length, and connectivity), giving rise to both shear‐thickening and shear‐thinning behavior. The resulting hydrogels range in shear elastic moduli from 0.14 to 220 kPa, mimicking the mechanical variability in a range of soft tissues. The high degree of discrete tuneability of composition and mechanics in these hydrogels makes them particularly promising for matching the chemical and mechanical requirements of different applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Accelerated Skin Wound Healing by Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Luo Ruizeng , Dai Jieyu , Zhang Jiaping , Li Zhou
Published: May 2021

When the integrity of the skin got damaged, an endogenous electric field will be generated in the wound and a series of physiological reactions will be initiated to close the wound. The existence of the endogenous electric field of the wound has a promoting effect on all stages of wound healing. For wounds that cannot heal on their own, the exogenous electric field can assist the treatment. In this review, the effects of exogenous electrical stimulation on wound healing, such as the inflammation phase, blood flow, cell proliferation and migration, and the wound scarring is overviewed. This article also reviews the new electrical stimulation methods that have emerged in recent years, such as small power supplies, nanogenerators (NGs), and other physical, chemical or biological strategies. These new electrical stimulation methods and devices are safe, low‐cost, stable, and small in size. The challenge and perspective are discussed for the future trends of the electrical stimulation treatment in accelerating skin wound healing.
Softness Meets with Brightness: Dye‐Doped Multifunctional Fluorescent Polymer Particles via Microfluidics for Labeling
Authors: Visaveliya Nikunjkumar R. , Köhler Johann Michael
Published: May 2021

Fluorogenic labeling strategies have emerged as powerful tools for in vivo and in vitro imaging applications for diagnostic and theranostic purposes. Free organic chromophores (fluorescent dyes) are bright but rapidly degrade. Inorganic nanoparticles (e.g., quantum dots) are photostable but toxic to biological systems. Alternatively, dye‐doped polymer particles are promising for labeling and imaging due to their properties that overcome limitations of photodegradation and toxicity. This progress report, therefore, presents various synthesis techniques for the generation of dye‐doped fluorescent polymer particles. Polymer particles are relatively soft compared to inorganic nanoparticles and can be synthesized with characteristics like biocompatibility and stimuli responsiveness. Also, their ability of loading fluorophores through various interactions reveals brightness. Here, a multiscale‐multicolor library of bright and soft fluorescent polymer particles is generated hierarchically. Various microfluidic supported strategies have been applied where fluorophores can be linked to polymeric networks noncovalently and covalently in the interior, and at the surface of nanoparticles (60–550 nm). Besides, microfluidic strategies for hydrophilic and hydrophobic fluorescent polymer microparticles (20–800 µm) have been performed for systematic tuning in size and color combination. Furthermore, soft and bright particulate assemblies are enabled through interfacial interactions at the intermediate scale (600 nm–3 µm) between the nanometer and micrometer lengthscale.
Single‐Mode, 700%‐Stretchable, Elastic Optical Fibers Made of Thermoplastic Elastomers
Authors: Shabahang Soroush , Clouser Fatima , Shabahang Farzaneh , Yun Seok‐Hyun
Published: May 2021

Optical fibers made of thermoset elastomeric materials can offer extremely high stretchability not possible with conventional glass and plastic optical fibers. However, such elastomer fibers have so far been made with large mm‐scale diameters, which limit their potential utilities. Here, fabrication of small‐diameter (< 200 µm), core‐clad optical fibers using a thermal drawing of transparent thermoplastic elastomers is demonstrated. The single‐mode optical fibers fabricated by this method are highly elastic and durable against strain up to 700%. Furthermore, a composite thermoplastic‐thermoset elastic optical fiber is also presented, in which the advantageous properties of both families of elastomers are combined. These optical fibers may be useful for short‐distance, mechanically flexible, optical interconnections in biomedical, wearable, or implantable photonic devices.
Challenges in improving the minimal invasiveness of the surgical treatment for gastric cancer using robotic technology
Authors: Kikuchi Kenji , Suda Koichi , Shibasaki Susumu , Tanaka Tsuyoshi , Uyama Ichiro
Published: May 2021

The number of operations performed using the da Vinci Surgical System® (DVSS) has been increasing worldwide in the past decade. We introduced robotic gastrectomy for gastric cancer (GC) in January 2009 to overcome the disadvantage of conventional laparoscopic gastrectomy. Initially, we experienced some troubles in the technical aspect and cost of robotic surgery. After extensive trial and error, we were able to develop the “double bipolar method” and the “da Vinci's plane theory” to use DVSS effectively. We then conducted “Senshiniryo B,” which was a multi‐institutional prospective single‐arm study to determine the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of robotic gastrectomy for GC in 2014. In that study, we demonstrated that the morbidity rate in the robotic group (2.45%) was significantly lower than that in the historical control group (6.4%). As a consequence of that clinical trial, 12 procedures, including robotic gastrectomy for GC, have been covered under the Japanese national insurance in 2018. An additional seven procedures were newly covered in April 2020. In the first half of this article, we describe the history of robotic surgery in the world and Japan and demonstrate the “double bipolar method” and “da Vinci's plane theory.” In the latter half, we explain the Japanese systems for the safe dissemination of robotic surgery and state our efforts to solve some problems in robotic surgery.
Discrete element method models of elastic and elastoplastic fiber assemblies
Authors: Guo Yu , Liu Qingzhao , Li Yanjie , Li Zhenhua , Jin Hanhui , Wassgren Carl , Curtis Jennifer S.
Published: May 2021

Geometry‐dependency and plasticity are considered in the contact force models for the discrete element method simulations of elastic and elastoplastic fiber assemblies subject to uniaxial compression. It is observed that the contact force models have a significant impact on compressive loads. A simplified normal contact force model leads to smaller loads at large solid volume fractions compared to the experimental results, while the present geometry‐dependent models give better predictions. Simulations with a simple Coulombic tangential contact force model (considering sliding friction only) significantly underestimate the loads, while a Mindlin tangential force model that considers static friction improves the predictions. For the modeling of the fibers that undergo large plastic deformations, plasticity should be considered for both the fiber bending and fiber–fiber normal contact in order to obtain correct simulation results. Elastic models for fiber–fiber contact and fiber bending deformation remarkably overpredict the loads for the plastic fibers.
Quantification of dental macrowear using 3D occlusal surface topographic measurements in deciduous and permanent molars of children
Authors: Bas Marlon , Waltenberger Lukas , Kurzmann Christoph , Heimel Patrick , Rebay‐Salisbury Katharina , Kanz Fabian
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Childhood paleodietary reconstruction via dental macrowear analysis is limited in part by available methods to measure dental macrowear. We describe a method to quantify dental macrowear progression (in both deciduous and permanent molars) using a handheld intraoral scanner and two 3D occlusal topographic measurements. We assess the agreement of our macrowear proxies with an established qualitative wear scoring system and their relationship to age.

Material and methods

We scanned 92 well‐preserved dentitions of immature individuals from the medieval cemetery of St. Pölten in Lower Austria using an intraoral scanner. Two measurements were made on the resulting mesh files—the relative flat surface area in % of the occlusal surface (RFSA%) and the mesial interior slope angle. We estimated the technical error of measurement (TEM). Comparisons were made with the macrowear scoring system—tooth wear index.

Results

We found that TEM for both measurements was between 1 and 3%, except the interobserver TEM of RFSA% which was above 5%. Both quantitative measurements generally agree with the established qualitative scores and correlate with age; however, RFSA% does not reliably indicate the progression of macrowear for teeth after dentine exposure occurs.

Discussion

The proposed 3D topographic measurements can be made reliably, and within a certain range of wear provide good quantitative proxies of the progression of dental macrowear. Such measurements constitute a promising approach for improving dental macrowear analysis in contexts such as childhood paleodietary reconstruction, which benefit from additional precision in wear rate estimation and present less dentine exposure.
Microvascular anatomy of the non‐lobulated liver of adult Xenopus laevis: A scanning electron microscopic study of vascular casts
Authors: Lametschwandtner Alois , Spornitz Udo , Minnich Bernd
Published: May 2021

The microvascular anatomy of the non‐lobulated liver of adult Xenopus laevis was studied by scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts. Hepatic portal veins and hepatic arteries entered hepatic lobes at the hiluses, hepatic veins left at these sites. Intraparenchymal, hepatic portal veins branched up to 10 times before terminal portal venules supplied liver sinusoids. Hepatic arteries closely followed portal vessels. Arteriolar side branches formed anastomoses with close by portal venules (arteriolar‐portal anastomoses; APAs), liver sinusoids (arteriolar‐sinusoidal anastomoses; ASAs), and peribiliary plexus vessels. Distally, hepatic arteries anastomosed with terminal portal venules having >100 μm in diameter. Liver sinusoids formed a dense three‐dimensional network displaying signs of non‐sprouting and sprouting angiogenesis evidenced by “holes” and blind ending tapering cast vascular structures (sprouts), respectively. Sinusoids drained via efferent hepatic veins. Right and left hepatic veins drained into the posterior caval vein. Locally, a dense honeycomb‐like 3D‐meshwork of resin structures was found around terminal portal venules and hepatic arteries. These networks were fed by hepatic arterioles and drained into adjacent terminal portal venules. As their morphologies differed significantly from sinusoids and they were found at sites where diffuse lymphoid tissue is described, we are convinced that they represent the vasculature of diffuse lymphoid tissue areas. Frequencies and diameter ratios of hepatic portal venules versus hepatic arterioles anastomosing with the former (APAs) implicate that the arterial supply contributes to the oxygenation of parenchymal and stromal cells rather than to a significant increase in blood flow towards hepatic sinusoids.
Evaluating evidence‐based practice in light of the boundedness and proximity of outcomes: Capturing the scope of change
Authors: Sandbank Micheal , Chow Jason , Bottema‐Beutel Kristen , Woynaroski Tiffany
Published: May 2021

Evidence‐based practice (EBP) reviews abound in early childhood autism intervention research. These reviews seek to describe and evaluate the evidence supporting the use of specific educational and clinical practices, but give little attention to evaluating intervention outcomes in terms of the extent to which they reflect change that extends beyond the exact targets and contexts of intervention. We urge consideration of these outcome characteristics, which we refer to as “proximity” and “boundedness,” as key criteria in evaluating and describing the scope of change effected by EBPs, and provide an overview and illustration of these concepts as they relate to early childhood autism intervention research. We hope this guidance will assist future researchers in selecting and evaluating intervention outcomes, as well as in making important summative determinations of the evidence base for this population.

Lay Summary

Recent reviews have come to somewhat different conclusions regarding the evidence base for interventions geared toward autistic children, perhaps because such reviews vary in the degree to which they consider the types of outcome measures used in past studies testing the effects of treatments. Here, we provide guidance regarding characteristics of outcome measures that research suggests are particularly important to consider when evaluating the extent to which an intervention constitutes “evidence‐based practice.”
Retrospective analysis of the U.S. corn ethanol industry for 2005–2019: implications for greenhouse gas emission reductions
Authors: Lee Uisung , Kwon Hoyoung , Wu May , Wang Michael
Published: May 2021

Since 2000, corn ethanol production in the USA has increased significantly – from 1.6 to 15 billion gallons (6.1 to 57 billion liters) – due to supportive biofuel policies. In this study, we conduct a retrospective analysis of the changes in US corn ethanol greenhouse gas emission intensity, sometimes known as carbon intensity (CI), over the 15 years from 2005 to 2019. Our analysis shows a significant decrease in CI: from 58 to 45 gCO2e/MJ of corn ethanol (a 23% reduction). This is due to several factors. Corn grain yield has increased continuously, reaching 168 bushels/acre (10.5 metric tons/ha, a 15% increase) while fertilizer inputs per acre have remained constant, resulting in decreased intensities of fertilizer inputs (e.g., 7% and 18% reduction in nitrogen and potash use per bushel of corn grain harvested, respectively). A 6.5% increase in ethanol yield, from 2.70 to 2.86 gal/bushel corn (0.402 to 0.427 L kg−1 corn), and a 24% reduction in ethanol plant energy use, from 32 000 to 25 000 Btu/gal ethanol (9.0 to 6.9 MJ L−1 ethanol) also helped reduce the CI. The total GHG emission reduction benefits through the reduction in the CI and increased ethanol production volume are estimated at 140 million metric tons (MMT) from 2005 to 2019 in the ethanol industry. Displacement of petroleum gasoline by corn ethanol in the transportation fuel market resulted in a total GHG emission reduction benefit of 544 MMT CO2e during the period 2005 to 2019. © 2021 Argonne National Laboratory. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd
More sustainable biomass production and biorefining to boost the bioeconomy
Authors: Gajula Sampath , Reddy C. R. K.
Published: May 2021

The ongoing saga of the fossil carbon‐based economy affects the wellbeing of this planet and its associated life forms, including humans. Although the bioeconomy is widely advocated as a solution, it is not growing quickly enough due to various challenges. Here, we discuss emerging opportunities to overcome these barriers and enhance the bioeconomy's potential to contribute to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals as a result of developments in biomass production and biorefining. A brief overview of current advances in biomass production, biorefining, and products together with their applications is provided. A comprehensive vision for the development of a sustainable bioeconomy is also given. Leveraging scientific and technological advances along with the support of modeling, assessment, and analyses, can help to address the sustainability concerns of the bioeconomy and accelerate its progress toward a carbon‐neutral future while strengthening bioeconomy concepts of contributing to equitable economic growth based on holistic sustainable development in harmony with nature. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Social inequalities in attaining higher education in Scotland: New evidence from sibling data
Authors: Duta Adriana , Iannelli Cristina , Breen Richard
Published: May 2021

Over the last decades, various policies at national and local levels have been implemented to widen participation in higher education (HE) in Scotland and more widely in the UK. Despite this, the acquisition of a HE qualification is still largely determined by the family in which individuals are born. Our study provides new evidence on the extent to which family factors matter by examining sibling data from the Scottish Longitudinal Study, a large‐scale linkage study created using data from administrative and statistical sources. Random effects linear probability models are used to analyse individual and family‐level variance in the chances of obtaining a HE qualification. Our results show that about 40% of the variation in the chances of attaining a university degree is explained by siblings’ shared family characteristics and about a third of this share is explained by parental social class, education and housing tenure. A high degree of sibling similarity in the outcome was found across all social‐origin classes. However, while siblings of advantaged families are alike because they both graduated from HE, siblings of disadvantaged families are alike because neither of them did. We suggest that parental compensatory strategies in the former families and economic constraints in the latter families may explain such stark patterns of inequality. Finally, we do not find evidence that the availability of sub‐degrees makes a difference to these patterns.
When reintegration fails: Stigmatization drives the ongoing violence of ex‐combatants in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Schmitt Sabine , Robjant Katy , Koebach Anke
Published: May 2021

Reintegration of ex‐combatants involves multiple challenges. In addition to the trauma‐related psychological sequelae, social obstacles in the community can aggravate psychopathological aggressive tendencies and lead to the continuation of violence in civilian life. However, the association between others’ negative attitudes and ex‐combatants’ ongoing perpetration of violence remains largely unexplored. Between September 2018 and May 2019, we assessed a representative community sample of adults in Eastern DR Congo (N = 1,058) and measured trauma exposure, perpetration, mental health problems (PTSD, depression, and appetitive aggression), perceived stigma (shame, perceived lack of social acknowledgement), experienced stigma, and skepticism toward reintegration with ex‐combatants. Male ex‐combatants (12%,n = 129) had more past trauma and violence perpetration than other community members and a greater number of recent conflicts (including both victimization and perpetration) within the community and with strangers/organized violence. They reported more experienced stigma, more severe PTSD symptoms but were less skeptical about reintegration. Ex‐combatants’ ongoing violence was predicted by an interplay of the community's skepticism toward reintegration and ex‐combatants’ perceived and recently experienced stigma (often attributed to the armed group history) and mental health problems, in addition to lifetime traumatization. These findings promote the need for combined interventions that address individual mental health problems including aggression and collective discriminatory attitudes and behaviors.
Preclinical study of peripheral nerve regeneration using nerve guidance conduits based on polyhydroxyalkanaotes
Authors: Lizarraga‐Valderrama Lorena R. , Ronchi Giulia , Nigmatullin Rinat , Fregnan Federica , Basnett Pooja , Paxinou Alexandra , Geuna Stefano , Roy Ipsita
Published: May 2021

Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) are used as an alternative to the “gold standard” nerve autografting, preventing the need for surgical intervention required to harvest autologous nerves. However, the regeneration outcomes achieved with the current NGCs are only comparable with autografting when the gap is short (less than 10 mm). In the present study, we have developed NGCs made from a blend of polyhydroxyalkanoates, a family of natural resorbable polymers. Hollow NGCs made from a 75:25 poly(3‐hydroxyoctanoate)/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) blend (PHA‐NGCs) were manufactured using dip‐molding. These PHA‐NGCs showed appropriate flexibility for peripheral nerve regeneration. In vitro cell studies performed using RT4‐D6P2T rat Schwann cell line confirmed that the material is capable of sustaining cell proliferation and adhesion. PHA‐NGCs were then implanted in vivo to repair 10 mm gaps of the median nerve of female Wistar rats for 12 weeks. Functional evaluation of the regenerated nerve using the grasping test showed that PHA‐NGCs displayed similar motor recovery as the autograft, starting from week 7. Additionally, nerve cross‐sectional area, density and number of myelinated cells, as well as axon diameter, fiber diameter, myelin thickness and g‐ratio obtained using the PHA‐NGCs were found comparable to an autograft. This preclinical data confirmed that the PHA‐NGCs are indeed highly promising candidates for peripheral nerve regeneration.
Commiphoranes K−O, New Terpenoids from Resina Commiphora and Their Anti‐Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Yang Xiaohua , Wang Daiwei , Yan Yongming , Jiao Yabin , Cheng Yong‐Xian , Wang Feng
Published: May 2021

Commiphorane K (1), a new dinorditerpenoid, commiphoranes L−N (2–4), three new germacrane‐type sesquiterpenoids, and commiphorane O (5), one new guaiane‐type sesquiterpenoid, were isolated from Resina Commiphora. Their structures were characterized by spectroscopic and computational methods. In particular, the structure of 4 was confirmed by X‐ray crystallography. Compounds 2–5 were evaluated for their anti‐inflammatory activities. The result shows that compound 2 suppresses lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated production of TNF‐α in RAW264.7 cells in a dose‐dependent manner.
Clinical and laboratory characteristics of hepatitis C and COVID‐19 coinfection: Prolonged RNA shedding in nonhospitalized case
Authors: Villar Livia Melo , de Paula Vanessa Salete , Pinto Laura Cristina Machado , Marques Bianca Cristina Leires , da Costa Vanessa Duarte , da Silva Lucas Lima , Santos Alanna Calheiros , do Nascimento Giselle Prado , Miguel Juliana Custódio , Mendonça Ana Carolina da Fonseca , Motta Fernando Couto , Lewis‐Ximenez Lia Laura
Published: May 2021

Nonhospitalized COVID‐19 and hepatitis C‐coinfected patient presented prolonged RNA shedding and mild course of infection. This finding demonstrated the importance of long follow‐up of these patients.
A case series of serious and unexpected adverse drug reactions under treatment with cariprazine
Authors: Heck Johannes , Seifert Johanna , Stichtenoth Dirk O. , Schroeder Christoph , Groh Adrian , Szycik Gregor R. , Degner Detlef , Adamovic Ivana , Schneider Michael , Glocker Catherine , Rüther Eckart , Bleich Stefan , Grohmann Renate , Toto Sermin
Published: May 2021

Reporting of new or unexpected adverse drug reactions of medicines that are subject to additional monitoring (“black triangle” label), such as the antipsychotic drug cariprazine, is of paramount importance to improve pharmacotherapy safety.
Advanced lung cancer presenting with malignant pericardial effusion
Authors: Sadiq Abid M. , Sadiq Adnan M. , Nkya Gilbert Z.
Published: May 2021

Irregular pericardial wall thickening, mediastinal lymph nodes, and pericardial fluid analysis are helpful to identify metastasis to the pericardium though it is a marker of advanced disease and poor prognosis.
On the Mechanism of Au‐Catalyzed Enynamide‐yne Dehydro‐Diels‐Alder Reactions: An Experimental and Computational Study
Authors: Fabian León Rayo David , Hong Young J. , Campeau Dominic , Tantillo Dean J. , Gagosz Fabien
Published: May 2021

Gold‐catalyzed dehydro‐Diels‐Alder reactions of ynamide derivatives allow efficient access to a variety of N‐containing aromatic heterocycles. A dual gold catalysis mechanism was postulated for transformations involving the formation of C−C bonds by reaction between a terminal alkyne and an enynamide fragment. In this article, complete experimental and computational investigations into the mechanism of such a transformation are reported. Support for a dual gold catalysis was found and it was shown that the concerted or stepwise nature of the cyclization event depends on the substitution of the ynamide moiety. The reaction was found to proceed in three stages: 1) formation of a σ,π‐digold complex from the terminal alkyne, 2) cyclization to produce a gem‐diaurated aryl complex, and 3) catalyst transfer to free the product and regenerate the σ,π‐digold complex.
Droplet Entrainment Analysis in a Flash Evaporator with an Image‐Based Measurement Technique
Authors: Jasch Katharina , Schulz Jonas , Bart Hans‐Jörg , Scholl Stephan
Published: May 2021

Local droplet sizes and volumes of entrained liquid are captured with an image‐based measurement technique for comparison with a conventional, integral method for entrainment analysis. Experiments in a forced circulation flash evaporation were performed for different operating conditions and with two different chemical systems. Droplet size and frequency rise with an increase in thermal energy input. The local readings confirm the trends found by the integral measurement method. The modification of the image‐based probe enables the detection of small (≈ 10 µm) and at the same time fast droplets under challenging operating conditions, such as vacuum and superheated feed similar to industrial process conditions.
PROTOCOL: Impact of social protection on gender equality in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review of reviews
Authors: Perera Camila , Bakrania Shivit , Ipince Alessandra , Nesbitt‐Ahmed Zahrah , Obasola Oluwaseun , Richardson Dominic
Published: May 2021

This is the protocol for a Campbell review. The review aims to systematically collect, appraise, map and synthesise the evidence from systematic reviews on the differential gender impacts of social protection programmes in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries (LMICs). Therefore, it will answer the following questions: (1) What is known from systematic reviews on the gender‐differentiated impacts of social protection programmes in LMICs? (2) What is known from systematic reviews about the factors that determine these gender‐differentiated impacts? (3) What is known from existing systematic reviews about design and implementation features of social protection programmes and their association with gender outcomes?
Unraveling the Mechanism of Methane Activation on Zn‐Modified Zeolites by Solid‐State NMR
Authors: Stepanov Alexander G. , Arzumanov Sergei S. , Gabrienko Anton A.
Published: May 2021

Methane activation on metal‐containing zeolites is a hot topic because of the great potential of the application of these catalysts for the direct transformation of methane to methanol and aromatics under mild conditions. Solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (SS NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful technique for characterizing small alkane activation and transformation on heterogeneous catalysts. It can provide insights into the different steps of alkane molecule activation that are difficult to assess with alternative methods. In this Concept article, the recent advances in the investigations of methane activation on Zn‐modified zeolites performed with SS NMR are discussed. These studies demonstrate the breadth of information that can be obtained by SS NMR spectroscopy, such as the intermediates formed, the particular Zn species involved, the possible pathways of the alkane activation. The knowledge acquired with SS NMR provides the basis for the realization of the detected conversions of methane in practice.
Symptom screening via screen: Real‐time electronic tracking of pediatric patient‐reported outcomes
Authors: Weaver Meaghann S. , Wiener Lori
Published: May 2021

The study by Barz Leahy et al highlights the progressing state of patient‐reported outcome science as true translational research from development to implementation and the clinical usefulness of electronic symptom monitoring for pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy in an inpatient setting. Future considerations include addressing discordant reporting between the child and the caregiver, replication in more diverse racial and ethnic populations, and assurance that the rich electronic data obtained do not supplant the human‐to‐human interaction so central to oncology care.
A Phase 1 Study to Investigate the Effects of Cortexolone 17α‐Propionate, Also Known as Clascoterone, on the QT Interval Using the Meal Effect to Demonstrate ECG Assay Sensitivity
Authors: Täubel Jörg , Mazzetti Alessandro , Ferber Georg , Burch William , Fernandes Sara , Patel Avani , Spencer Christopher S. , Freier Anne , Graff Claus , Kanters Jørgen K. , Camm John
Published: May 2021

Cortexolone 17α‐propionate, also known as clascoterone, is a potent androgen receptor inhibitor intended for the topical treatment of skin diseases associated with androgenic pathway alterations. In nonclinical studies, cortexolone 17α‐propionate was found to have a weak inhibitory effect on human Ether‐à‐go‐go‐Related Gene (hERG) potassium channels, which are vital for normal electrical activity in the heart. When used in a cream formulation, little cortexolone 17α‐propionate is absorbed. However, the solution formulation developed for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia leads to a measurable systemic concentration and accumulation of the antiandrogen. This phase 1 study assessed the effect of cortexolone 17α‐propionate on the QTc interval using concentration‐effect analysis and the effect of a meal on QTc to confirm assay sensitivity. Thirty‐two volunteers were randomly assigned to receive the active drug or a matching vehicle as placebo. Participants were dosed twice daily on days 1 to 3 (225 mg applied topically as a 7.5% solution 12 hours apart) and once on day 4. Pharmacokinetic and electrocardiogram assessments were performed after supratherapeutic doses. Assay sensitivity was successfully confirmed by using the food effect on the QTc interval. The results of this concentration‐QTc analysis demonstrate that cortexolone 17α‐propionate and its metabolite/degradation product had no effect on the QTc interval in the concentration range tested.
Single‐ and Multiple‐Dose Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of PN‐943, a Gastrointestinal‐Restricted Oral Peptide Antagonist of α4β7, in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Modi Nishit B. , Cheng Xiaoli , Mattheakis Larry , Hwang Ching‐Chang , Nawabi Roya , Liu David , Gupta Suneel
Published: May 2021

PN‐943 is an orally stable, gastrointestinal‐restricted peptide that binds specifically to α4ß7 integrin on leukocytes, blocking leukocyte trafficking to and activation in the gut, inhibiting colon inflammation and reducing signs and symptoms of active ulcerative colitis. Two pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies were conducted in healthy volunteers. Study 1 was a first‐in‐human study with 40 male subjects receiving PN‐943, 100 to 1400 mg or placebo, as single doses and 57 male subjects receiving PN‐943, 100 to 1000 mg or placebo, as multiple doses. Study 2 was a randomized, crossover study comparing multiple doses of 450‐mg PN‐943 twice daily as a liquid solution and as an immediate‐release tablet in 10 subjects. No subjects discontinued due to treatment‐emergent adverse events. Consistent with the gastrointestinal‐restricted nature of the peptide, systemic exposure was minimal; there was an approximate dose‐proportional increase in area under the plasma concentration–time curve. There was minimal accumulation with once‐daily dosing and an absence of time‐dependent changes in pharmacokinetics. Administration of PN‐943 after a high‐fat meal reduced peak plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration–time curve. There was minimal (<0.1%) urinary excretion of intact drug, and there was a dose‐related increase in fecal excretion of intact PN‐943. Dose‐dependent increases in blood receptor occupancy and reduction in blood receptor expression were observed, supporting target engagement. Twice‐daily dosing resulted in sustained receptor occupancy with low plasma fluctuations (143%). PN‐943 was generally well tolerated following single and multiple oral doses with low systemic exposure. Twice‐daily dosing resulted in sustained pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, supporting further investigation in efficacy studies.
Onshore groundwater spring carbonate mounds to lacustrine microbialites, the perplexing record of a transitional Great Salt Lake carbonate shoreline at Lakeside, Utah
Authors: Homewood Peter , Mettraux Monique , Vanden Berg Michael , Foubert Anneleen , Neumann Reiner , Newell Dennis , Atwood Genevieve
Published: May 2021

Non‐marine carbonates at Lakeside (Utah) are the depositional record of transitional shoreline palaeoenvironments around 1,285 m, as lake elevation fell from Lake Bonneville levels to low‐stand Great Salt Lake levels of 1,284–1,278 m. Lakeside carbonates provide a rare example of onshore groundwater spring deposits connected to lacustrine microbialite reefs. Clotted fabrics and mineralized bacteriomorphs suggest microbial influence both in groundwater spring and littoral carbonates. Thrombolitic clotted aragonite and dendritic clotted intermediate magnesium calcite may document two distinct microbial ecosystems each with a specific mineralogy. Radiocarbon dates from interior to outer layers of a 20 cm littoral microbialite suggest several thousand years of domal growth. Climate fluctuations may be recorded in littoral deposits by the alternation of ooids (increased salinity, arid conditions) with ostracods (fresher water, humid conditions). Successive higher frequency cycles of sedimentation, exposure, microkarst and early diagenesis were cemented by vadose and phreatic very high magnesium calcite and non‐stoichiometric dolomite. Several layers of littoral and beach deposits accumulated during longer lacustrine transgressive–regressive cycles. Clastic detritus and lack of known initial U and Th concentrations could explain the lack of correlation between widely scattered U‐Th ages and closely grouped 14C dates. Calibrated ages from radiocarbon dating may have been increased by long residence time of groundwater in bedrock, since 87Sr/86Sr signatures do indicate possible littoral‐zone mixing of lake water with groundwater from outcropping and subsurface Mississippian Great Blue Limestone. The perplexing Lakeside carbonate system is the result of interaction between microbial and chemical processes during sedimentation and early diagenesis.