bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Children's emotion recognition and aggression: A multi‐cohort longitudinal study
Authors: Acland Erinn L. , Jambon Marc , Malti Tina
Published: August 2021

Difficulty recognizing negative emotions (NEs) in children is linked to increased antisocial traits and externalizing problems. However, crucial aspects of this relation remain unclear, such as: whether NE recognition is associated with externalizing problems in general or only a particular subcomponent (i.e., aggression); whether subcomponents of NE recognition (i.e., insensitivity and misspecifications) are relatively more important; and how these relations change over the course of development. We assessed emotion recognition, overt aggression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) symptoms in an ethnically diverse sample of Canadian children (N = 150; 4‐year‐olds, N = 148; 8‐year‐olds) and followed up with them 1 year later (86.9% retention). Emotion recognition was assessed using a behavioral task and caregivers reported on children's externalizing symptoms. Children with lower NE recognition had higher initial, but not subsequent, overt aggression, even when controlling for nonaggressive externalizing symptoms (i.e., ADHD and ODD symptoms). NE recognition was not concurrently or longitudinally associated with nonaggressive externalizing symptoms. Age and gender did not moderate these findings. Both higher NE insensitivity (e.g., reporting a sad face appears neutral) and misspecifications (e.g., reporting a sad face appears angry) were significantly associated with higher concurrent overt aggression. In conclusion, both NE insensitivity and misspecifications were found to be uniquely important for children's overt aggression. These findings highlight the importance of different forms of NE recognition and differentiating between aggressive and nonaggressive externalizing problems in children.
A 3D Bioprinted In Vitro Model of Pulmonary Artery Atresia to Evaluate Endothelial Cell Response to Microenvironment
Authors: Tomov Martin L. , Perez Lilanni , Ning Liqun , Chen Huang , Jing Bowen , Mingee Andrew , Ibrahim Sahar , Theus Andrea S. , Kabboul Gabriella , Do Katherine , Bhamidipati Sai Raviteja , Fischbach Jordan , McCoy Kevin , Zambrano Byron A. , Zhang Jianyi , Avazmohammadi Reza , Mantalaris Athanasios , Lindsey Brooks D. , Frakes David , Dasi Lakshmi Prasad , Serpooshan Vahid , Bauser‐Heaton Holly
Published: August 2021

Vascular atresia are often treated via transcatheter recanalization or surgical vascular anastomosis due to congenital malformations or coronary occlusions. The cellular response to vascular anastomosis or recanalization is, however, largely unknown and current techniques rely on restoration rather than optimization of flow into the atretic arteries. An improved understanding of cellular response post anastomosis may result in reduced restenosis. Here, an in vitro platform is used to model anastomosis in pulmonary arteries (PAs) and for procedural planning to reduce vascular restenosis. Bifurcated PAs are bioprinted within 3D hydrogel constructs to simulate a reestablished intervascular connection. The PA models are seeded with human endothelial cells and perfused at physiological flow rate to form endothelium. Particle image velocimetry and computational fluid dynamics modeling show close agreement in quantifying flow velocity and wall shear stress within the bioprinted arteries. These data are used to identify regions with greatest levels of shear stress alterations, prone to stenosis. Vascular geometry and flow hemodynamics significantly affect endothelial cell viability, proliferation, alignment, microcapillary formation, and metabolic bioprofiles. These integrated in vitro–in silico methods establish a unique platform to study complex cardiovascular diseases and can lead to direct clinical improvements in surgical planning for diseases of disturbed flow.
Multiple Heterojunction System of Boron Nitride‐Graphene/Black Phosphorene as Highly Efficient Solar Cell
Authors: Zeng Jian , Xu Liang , Dong Kejun , Yang Kai , Wang Ling‐Ling
Published: August 2021

Excitonic solar cell (XSC) based on 2D materials has attracted widespread attention. Using first‐principles calculations, XSC with high theoretical power conversion efficiency of around 21.3% formed by the combination of 2D cross‐linked hexagonal boron nitride‐graphene (BN‐GR) and black phosphorene (BP) is rationally designed in this work. The good visible‐light response, small conduction band offset, as well as the suitable band‐gap (1.41 eV) of electron donor (BN‐GR) lay the foundation for the excellent photoelectric conversion performance of the BN‐GR/BP heterojunction. More importantly, it is found that the substrate (BN‐GR) with different composition can drive uneven interlayer charge transfer in the BN‐GR/BP heterojunction, resulting in the formation of an obvious electron–hole puddle at the heterojunction interface. This forms a lateral discharge functional optoelectronic device in addition to the vertical direction, which may even be a new development direction for electronic energy storage devices in the future.
Substrate‐Adatom Interface Engineering of Transition Metal Decorated Boron‐Doped Graphene Sheet for Enhanced Adsorption of Xe and Kr – A Systematic Ab initio Study
Authors: Pazhedath Anees
Published: August 2021

Efficient adsorption and segregation of Xe and Kr gases are of high importance in commercial and nuclear industries. Systematic ab initio calculations reveal that transition‐metal (TM) decorated boron‐doped graphene (BDG‐TM) sheet can act as an efficient substrate for adsorptive capture of Xe and Kr (adatoms). Substantial enhancement in the adsorption energy is obtained on BDG‐TM substrates, and it varies as BDG‐Cu > BDG‐Ni > BDG‐Fe > BDG‐Zn. The improvement is approximately four times that of the pristine BDG and twice that of the conventional metallic substrates. TM‐decoration alters the charge distribution at the substrate‐adatom interface, which brings a considerable change in the polarization and induced dipole moment of adatom, leading to significant improvement in the . Partial density of states analysis shows a splitting and significant interaction of Xe‐p with TM‐d orbitals near the Fermi level of Fe, Ni, and Cu decorated systems, unveiling strong adsorption. Further, the effect of clustering and dispersion of Cu atoms on are analyzed using a first‐principle‐based genetic algorithm, which reveals that clustering of Cu atoms deteriorates the of Xe and Kr. Thus, for experimental realization, a BDG sheet with uniformly dispersed fine Cu particles is proposed as a substrate.
Leucine‐Rich Glioma‐Inactivated 1 versus Contactin‐Associated Protein‐like 2 Antibody Neuropathic Pain: Clinical and Biological Comparisons
Authors: Ramanathan Sudarshini , Tseng Mandy , Davies Alexander J. , Uy Christopher E. , Paneva Sofija , Mgbachi Victor C. , Michael Sophia , Varley James A. , Binks Sophie , Themistocleous Andreas C. , Fehmi Janev , Anziska Yaacov , Soni Anushka , Hofer Monika , Waters Patrick , Brilot Fabienne , Dale Russell C. , Dawes John , Rinaldi Simon , Bennett David L. , Irani Sarosh R.
Published: August 2021

Pain is a under‐recognized association of leucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated 1 (LGI1) and contactin‐associated protein‐like 2 (CASPR2) antibodies. Of 147 patients with these autoantibodies, pain was experienced by 17 of 33 (52%) with CASPR2‐ versus 20 of 108 (19%) with LGI1 antibodies (p = 0.0005), and identified as neuropathic in 89% versus 58% of these, respectively. Typically, in both cohorts, normal nerve conduction studies and reduced intraepidermal nerve fiber densities were observed in the sampled patient subsets. In LGI1 antibody patients, pain responded to immunotherapy (p = 0.008), often rapidly, with greater residual patient‐rated impairment observed in CASPR2 antibody patients (p = 0.019). Serum CASPR2 antibodies, but not LGI1 antibodies, bound in vitro to unmyelinated human sensory neurons and rodent dorsal root ganglia, suggesting pathophysiological differences that may underlie our clinical observations. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:683–690
Transparent nanocomposites with enhanced performances from poly(propylene carbonate) and silica
Authors: Ma Youmei , Zhang Shuling
Published: August 2021

In this study, silica nanoparticles with a refractive index matching PPC and a diameter smaller than the visible light wavelength were chosen to prepare enhanced PPC/silica nanocomposites by a simple melt compounding method. The result exhibited all the nanocomposites possessed excellent transparency (about 90%), even in the nanocomposite with a silica content of 10 wt%. For PPC/silica nanocomposites, the percolation threshold was determined to be 7.5 wt% based on the dynamic rheological behavior and percolation theory. Moreover, the overall performance of the PPC‐based nanocomposite with a silica content of 7.5% is the best. The optimal nanocomposite showed a Young's modulus of 3792 MPa, a yield strength of 46.5 MPa, a storage modulus of 3812 MPa and a highest temperature at maximum weight‐loss rate (Tmax, 309°C). These characteristics are very important for potential commodity applications of PPC.
Rotational Variance‐Based Data Augmentation in 3D Graph Convolutional Network
Authors: Kim Jihoo , Kim Yeji , Lee Eok Kyun , Chae Chong Hak , Lee Kwangho , Kim Won June , Choi Insung S.
Published: August 2021

This work proposes the data augmentation by molecular rotation, with consideration that the protein‐ligand binding events are rotation‐variant. As a proof‐of‐concept, known active (i. e., 1‐labeled) ligands to human β‐secretase 1 (BACE‐1) are rotated for the generation of 0‐labeled data, and the rotation‐dependent prediction accuracy of 3D graph convolutional network (3DGCN) is investigated after data augmentation. The data augmentation makes the orientation‐recognizing ability of 3DGCN improved significantly in the classification task for BACE‐1/ligand binding. Furthermore, the data‐augmented 3DGCN has a capability for predicting active ligands from a candidate dataset, via improved performance of orientation recognition, which would be applied to virtual drug screening and discovery.
Nanoparticles in the clinic: An update post COVID‐19 vaccines
Authors: Anselmo Aaron C. , Mitragotri Samir
Published: August 2021

Nanoparticles are used in the clinic to treat cancer, resolve mineral deficiencies, image tissues, and facilitate vaccination. As a modular technology, nanoparticles combine diagnostic agents or therapeutics (e.g., elements, small molecules, biologics), synthetic materials (e.g., polymers), and biological molecules (e.g., antibodies, peptides, lipids). Leveraging these parameters, nanoparticles can be designed and tuned to navigate biological microenvironments, negotiate biological barriers, and deliver therapeutics or diagnostic agents to specific cells and tissues in the body. Recently, with the Emergency Use Authorization of the COVID‐19 lipid nanoparticle vaccines, the advantages and potential of nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle have been displayed at the forefront of biotechnology. Here, we provide a 5‐year status update on our original “Nanoparticles in the Clinic” review (also a 2‐year update on our second “Nanoparticles in the Clinic” review) by discussing recent nanoparticle delivery system approvals, highlighting new clinical trials, and providing an update on the previously highlighted clinical trials.
Metabolic engineering of Yarrowia lipolytica for the production of isoprene
Authors: Shaikh Kurshedaktar M. , Odaneth Annamma A.
Published: August 2021

Yarrowia lipolytica has recently emerged as a prominent microbial host for production of terpenoids. Its robust metabolism and growth in wide range of substrates offer several advantages at industrial scale. In the present study, we investigate the metabolic potential of Y. lipolytica to produce isoprene. Sustainable production of isoprene has been attempted through engineering several microbial hosts; however, the engineering studies performed so far are challenged with low titers. Engineering of Y. lipolytica, which have inherent high acetyl‐CoA flux could fuel precursors into the biosynthesis of isoprene and thus is an approach that would offer sustainable production opportunities. The present work, therefore, explores this opportunity wherein a codon‐optimized IspS gene (single copy) of Pueraria montana was integrated into the Y. lipolytica genome. With no detectable isoprene level during the growth or stationary phase of modified strain, attempts were made to overexpress enzymes from MVA pathway. GC‐FID analyses of gas collected during stationary phase revealed that engineered strains were able to produce detectable isoprene only after overexpressing HMGR (or tHMGR). The significant role of HMGR (tHMGR) in diverting the pathway flux toward DMAPP is thus highlighted in our study. Nevertheless, the final recombinant strains overexpressing HMGR (tHMGR) along with Erg13 and IDI showed isoprene titers of ~500 μg/L and yields of ~80 μg/g. Further characterization of the recombinant strains revealed high lipid and squalene content compared to the unmodified strain. Overall, the preliminary results of our laboratory‐scale studies represent Y. lipolytica as a promising host for fermentative production of isoprene.
Three Previously Undescribed Chlorophenyl Glycosides from the Bulbs of Lilium regale
Authors: Yan Jie , Guo Wenxiu , Zhou Lanyu , Guo Dale , Pei Jin , Deng Yun , Zheng Haoyuan , Liu Ding , Xie Xiaofang , Peng Cheng
Published: August 2021

Three previously undescribed chlorophenyl glycosides, (2,4,6‐trichloro‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methoxyphenyl)methyl β‐D‐glucopyranoside (1), (2,4‐dichloro‐3,5‐dimethoxyphenyl)methyl 6‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (2) and 4‐chloro‐3‐methoxy‐5‐methylphenyl 6‐O‐(6‐deoxy‐β‐L‐mannopyranosyl)‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (3) were obtained from Lilium regale. The absolute configurations of these new finds were elucidated by comprehensive analyses of spectroscopic data combined with acid hydrolysis derivatization. (2,4‐dichloro‐3,5‐dimethoxyphenyl)methyl 6‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (2) can inhibit the proliferation of lung carcinoma A549 cells with an IC50 value of 29 μΜ.
Practice patterns for patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction during the early phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic—Valuable lessons learned
Authors: Jia Xiaoming , Jneid Hani
Published: August 2021

Key Points

During the early phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States, there was a significant reduction in cardiac catheterization lab activations and numbers of PPCIs for STEMI as well as an increase in door‐to‐balloon time.

The decrease in STEMI volume is likely multifaceted involving factors at the patient and health system levels.

Longitudinal data on STEMI care beyond the early phase of the pandemic is needed to better understand how different health systems have been adapting to the ongoing pandemic.
Transcatheter aortic valve thrombosis: The more we see the more we know
Authors: Franzone Anna , Esposito Giovanni
Published: August 2021

Key Points

Valve thrombosis is a rare but relevant and potentially fatal complication of transcatheter interventions (TAVI) that is usually resolved by oral anticoagulant therapy.

Advanced imaging including 4D‐CT is pivotal for the diagnosis.

Patient‐ and procedure‐related factors that increase the risk of valve thrombosis include obesity, renal failure, thrombocytopenia, valve‐in‐valve implantation, lack of predilation, and use of balloon‐expandable prosthesis.
Silver Nanowire‐Based Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Alkaline Solution
Authors: Linge Jonas Mart , Kozhemyakin Daniil , Erikson Heiki , Vlassov Sergei , Kongi Nadezda , Tammeveski Kaido
Published: August 2021

The electrocatalytic activity of commercial silver nanowires (AgNWs) with different diameters (35, 90, and 120 nm) was investigated towards the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in 0.1 M KOH solution. The rotating disc electrode (RDE) data analysis revealed that the ORR onset potential and half‐wave potential shift positively for AgNWs as compared to a polycrystalline Ag electrode. The enhanced ORR performance of AgNWs with a diameter of 35 nm was attributed to the elongated porous structure of the catalyst material, which facilitated the mass transport in the catalyst layer. The Koutecky‐Levich analysis was used to determine the kinetic parameters of O2 reduction and to confirm that the ORR proceeds via 4‐electron pathway on AgNW‐modified electrodes. Stability tests showed that 35 nm thick AgNWs had high stability during long‐term potential cycling. Based on the obtained results, the AgNWs have great potential as efficient catalysts for alkaline membrane fuel cell technologies.
Implications of choosing different interpolation methods: A case study for soil test phosphorus
Authors: Matcham Emma G. , Subburayalu Sakthi K. , Culman Steven W. , Lindsey Laura E.
Published: August 2021

Many farmers have their fields grid soil sampled to plan for variable rate P fertilizer application. Grid soil samples are often interpolated to create fertilizer application maps. However, most farmers and other practitioners do not compare interpolation methods. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of different grid soil sampling interpolation methods on P fertilizer prescription maps. Grid soil samples were collected from six fields and interpolated via geographically weighted regression (GWR), random forest (RF), and inverse distance weighting (IDW). At four out of six site–years, the root mean square error of soil test P (STP) was 7 to 16% lower for the GWR method compared with the RF method, and GWR identified the low‐STP areas better than RF. Geographically weighted regression may outperform RF and IDW because of its lower error and reduced sensitivity to individual high‐ and low‐STP values. Evaluating multiple interpolation techniques and comparing maps both visually and using global error rates can improve the decisions made by farmers and other practitioners.
Modelling Photoionisation in Isocytosine: Potential Formation of Longer‐Lived Excited State Cations in its Keto Form
Authors: Segarra‐Martí Javier , Bearpark Michael J.
Published: August 2021

Studying the effects of UV and VUV radiation on non‐canonical DNA/RNA nucleobases allows us to compare how they release excess energy following absorption with respect to their canonical counterparts. This has attracted much research attention in recent years because of its likely influence on the origin of our genetic lexicon in prebiotic times. Here we present a CASSCF and XMS‐CASPT2 theoretical study of the photoionisation of non‐canonical pyrimidine nucleobase isocytosine in both its keto and enol tautomeric forms. We analyse their lowest energy cationic excited states including
,
and
and compare these to the corresponding electronic states in cytosine. Investigating lower‐energy decay pathways we find – unexpectedly ‐ that keto‐isocytosine+ presents a sizeable energy barrier potentially inhibiting decay to its cationic ground state, whereas enol‐isocytosine+ features a barrierless and consequently ultrafast pathway analogous to the one previously found for the canonical (keto) form of cytosine+. Dynamic electron correlation reduces the energy barrier in the keto form substantially (by ∼1 eV) but it is nevertheless still present. We additionally compute the UV/Vis absorption signals of the structures encountered along these decay channels to provide spectroscopic fingerprints to assist future experiments in monitoring these intricate photo‐processes.
Flow Cytometric Quantification of Cytotoxic Activity in Whole Blood Samples
Authors: Rico Laura G. , Ward Michael D. , Bradford Jolene A. , Petriz Jordi
Published: August 2021

Current methods for the determination of cell‐mediated cytotoxic activity in blood samples usually isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells by density gradient centrifugation or alternatively use erythrocyte lysis. Both centrifugation and red cell lysis can cause cellular depletion and cell dysfunction, resulting in erroneous measurements. To address limitations of current assays, we developed an improved strategy to determine cellular cytotoxicity using flow cytometry. Viable nucleic acid stains are used to identify live nucleated cells and discriminate them from non‐nucleated erythrocytes, platelets, and debris while avoiding lysing and washing steps to maintain cell functionality. To detect target cells, we have used two different labeling approaches. In the first approach, EGFP‐labeled K562 human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells provide a “ready‐to‐use” target without the need of additional for labeling or staining. For the second approach, we perform parallel cytotoxicity assays in the presence of wild‐type K562 cells previously loaded with a fluorescent dye that has spectral properties similar to those of EGFP. Given the importance of cytotoxic assays and the deleterious effects of current sample preparation methods, the aim of this study was to adapt this “untouched cells” flow cytometry method to study cytotoxic activity using unlysed whole blood samples and fluorescent target cells. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Sample preparation for cell‐mediated cytotoxic activity determination in unlysed whole blood

Basic Protocol 2: Protocol preparation, sample acquisition, and gating strategy for flow cytometric identification of cell‐mediated cytotoxic activity using unlysed whole blood samples

Support Protocol 1: Optimization of the performance of target cell labeling approaches

Support Protocol 2: Assessment of the linearity and reproducibility of cytotoxicity assays
Evaluating Gait and Locomotion in Rodents with the CatWalk
Authors: Garrick Jacqueline M. , Costa Lucio G. , Cole Toby B. , Marsillach Judit
Published: August 2021

Motor deficits can significantly affect the completion of daily life activities and have a negative impact on quality of life. Consequently, motor function is an important behavioral endpoint to measure for in vivo pathophysiologic studies in a variety of research areas, such as toxicant exposure, drug development, disease characterization, and transgenic phenotyping. Evaluation of motor function is also critical to the interpretation of cognitive behavioral assays, as many rely on intact motor abilities to derive meaningful data. As such, gait analysis is an important component of behavioral research and can be achieved by manual or video‐assisted methods. Manual gait analysis methods, however, are prone to observer bias and are unable to capture many critical parameters. In contrast, automated video‐assisted gait analysis can quickly and reliably assess gait and locomotor abnormalities that were previously difficult to collect manually. Here, we describe the evaluation of gait and locomotion in rodents using the automated Noldus CatWalk XT system. We include a step‐by‐step guide for running an experiment using the CatWalk XT system and discuss theory and considerations when evaluating rodent gait. The protocol and discussion provided here act as a supplemental resource to the manual for this commercially available system and can assist CatWalk users in their experimental design and implementation. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Atomically Dispersed Co Clusters Anchored on N‐doped Carbon Nanotubes for Efficient Dehydrogenation of Alcohols and Subsequent Conversion to Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Li Boyang , Fang Jian , Xu Dan , Zhao Hong , Zhu Hanghang , Zhang Fengwei , Dong Zhengping
Published: August 2021

The catalytic dehydrogenation of readily available alcohols to high value‐added carbonyl compounds is a research hotspot with scientific significance. Most of the current research about this reaction is performed with noble metal‐based homogeneous catalysts of high price and poor reusability. Herein, highly dispersed Co‐cluster‐decorated N‐doped carbon nanotubes (Co/N‐CNTs) were fabricated via a facile strategy and used for the dehydrogenation of alcohols with high efficiency. Various characterization techniques confirmed the presence of metallic Co clusters with almost atomic dispersion, and the N‐doped carbon supports also enhanced the catalytic activity of Co clusters in the dehydrogenation reaction. Aldehydes as dehydrogenation products were further transformed in situ to carboxylic acids through a Cannizzaro‐type pathway under alkaline conditions. The reaction pathway of the dehydrogenation of alcohols was clearly confirmed by theoretical calculations. This work should provide an effective and simple approach for the accurate design and synthesis of small Co‐clusters catalysts for the efficient dehydrogenation‐based transformation of alcohols to carboxylic acids under mild reaction conditions.
CircTHBS1 facilitates the progression of interstitial cystitis depending on the regulation of miR‐139‐5p/MFN2 axis
Authors: Jiang Chen , Xu Ming , Zhu Jin , Yang Dongrong , Xue Boxin
Published: August 2021

Circular RNA (circRNA) have been found to play an important role in the progression of many diseases, including interstitial cystitis (IC). However, the role of circTHBS1 in IC progression is still unclear. Exploring the role and potential molecular mechanism of circTHBS1 in the development of IC. The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to assess the levels of inflammatory cytokines. The expression levels of circTHBS1, microRNA (miR)‐139‐5p, and mitofusin 2 (MFN2) were evaluated using quantitative real‐time PCR. Cell proliferation and migration were determined using MTT assay, Edu staining, and transwell assay. The protein levels of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and MFN2 were examined using western blot analysis. The relationship between miR‐139‐5p and circTHBS1 or MFN2 was confirmed using the dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay. CircTHBS1 was highly repressed in IC tissues and cells, and its expression was positively correlated with the inflammatory response of IC patients. CircTHBS1 could promote the proliferation, migration, EMT process, and inflammation of IC cells, while its knockdown had an opposite effect. CircTHBS1 could serve as a sponge of miR‐139‐5p, and miR‐139‐5p could participate in the regulation of circTHBS1 on IC cell progression. In addition, miR‐139‐5p could target MFN2, and it could inhibit the progression of IC cells by targeting MFN2. Furthermore, circTHBS1 sponged miR‐139‐5p to positively regulate MFN2. CircTHBS1 promoted IC cell proliferation, migration, EMT process, and inflammation by regulating the miR‐139‐5p/MFN2 axis indicating that circTHBS1 might be a potential target for IC treatment.
Are mindfulness treatments effective for pain in cancer patients? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Feng Beibei , Hu Xiaoqian , Lu William W. , Wang Yuling , Ip Wing‐Yuk
Published: August 2021

Background and objective

Mindfulness‐based interventions (MBIs) have been recently applied in pain management and cancer care. However, inconsistencies exist concerning the effectiveness of MBIs on pain control among cancer patients. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the efficacy of MBIs on pain in cancer patients via a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

Databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and ClinicalTrials.gov) were searched using key terms related to pain, cancer and mindfulness. The primary outcome was pain intensity. Standardized mean difference (SMD) of each outcome with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated. The quality of evidence was assessed by GRADE assessment.

Results

Ten RCTs with 843 participants were included. Significant pooled effects of MBIs on pain intensity were found at both short‐term (SMD = −0.19, 95% CI [−0.33 to −0.04]) and long‐term (SMD = −0.20, 95% CI [−0.35 to −0.05]) follow‐up, whereas no significance was observed for pain interference. In subgroup analyses, significant intervention effects were only seen in clinic‐based MBIs compared to remote MBIs, and pooled effects of MBIs in attenuating pain were discovered relative to passive rather than active comparators. GRADE ratings showed moderate certainty of evidence in MBIs for pain intensity but low for pain interference.

Conclusions

The efficacy of MBIs in reducing pain intensity among cancer patients was revealed in this meta‐analysis, albeit with a small effect size. Future research is warranted to optimize mindfulness treatment for pain control in cancer patients with high methodological quality and a large sample size.

Significance

The effect of MBIs on pain in cancer patients was demonstrated in our analysis, albeit with small effect sizes. High‐quality RCTs are needed to verify the efficacy of MBIs on cancer patients or survivors with pain complaints. Future trials should take into account the specific pain outcome measures (pain intensity or pain interference), the approach of intervention provision (clinic‐based or remote MBI, group or individual practice), the duration and frequency of interventions and the comparators (passive or active control arms).
Model Adequacy Checking for Applying Harmonic Regression to Assessment Quality Control
Authors: Qian Jiahe , Li Shuhong
Published: August 2021

In recent years, harmonic regression models have been applied to implement quality control for educational assessment data consisting of multiple administrations and displaying seasonality. As with other types of regression models, it is imperative that model adequacy checking and model fit be appropriately conducted. However, there has been no literature on how to perform a comprehensive model adequacy evaluation when applying harmonic regression models to sequential data with seasonality in the educational assessment field. This paper is intended to fill this gap with an illustration of real data from an English language assessment. Two types of cross‐validation, leave‐one‐out and out‐of‐sample, were designed to measure prediction errors and check model validation. Three types of R‐squared (, , and ) and various residual diagnostics were applied to check model adequacy and model fitting.
An experimental study on solar evaporation of sugarcane juice
Authors: Grewal Rahul , Kumar Mahesh
Published: August 2021

In this study, an attempt is made to obtain concentrated sugarcane juice and distilled water using solar radiations that would save energy as well as environment. In this study work, the experimental performance of a sugarcane juice solar evaporation system (SJSES) is investigated for the evaporation of water from sugarcane juice. To check the influence of flow rate on the performance of SJSES units, experiments are carried out at 20, 25, 30, and 35 ml/min. The flow of sugarcane juice at 25 ml/min in SJSES unit is found optimum that resulted in highest energy saving, distilled water, and relatively more brix content of final product. The performance of SJSES unit loaded with paraffin wax at optimum flow rate (unit IV) resulted in maximum distilled water (605.1 g) which is 82.4%, 14.8%, and 39.4% higher than other units. Paraffin wax loading in SJSES increased its distillate output, brix of juice, and working time by 78.3 g, 7.9%, and 1 h, respectively. Thermal and exergy efficiencies are found maximum for unit IV having values 58.56% and 4.53%, respectively. The amount of energy saved is observed maximum for this unit along with least distillate cost and payback period.
Genomic analysis reveals a rapid spread and predominance of lambda (C.37) SARS‐COV‐2 lineage in Peru despite circulation of variants of concern
Authors: Padilla‐Rojas Carlos , Jimenez‐Vasquez Victor , Hurtado Veronica , Mestanza Orson , Molina Iris S. , Barcena Luis , Morales Ruiz Sandra , Acedo Steve , Lizarraga Wendy , Bailon Henri , Cáceres Omar , Galarza Marco , Rojas‐Serrano Nancy , Vargas‐Herrera Natalia , Lope‐Pari Priscila , Huayra Joseph , Solari Lely
Published: August 2021

The pandemic generated by SARS‐Cov‐2 has caused a large number of cases and deaths in the world, but South America has been one of the continents that were most hard hit. The appearance of new variants causes concern because of the possibility that they may evade the protection generated by vaccination campaigns, their greater capacity to be transmitted, or their higher virulence. We analyzed the circulating variants in Peru after improving our Genomic Surveillance program. The results indicate a steep increase of the lambda lineage (C.37) until becoming predominant between January and April 2021, despite the cocirculation of other variants of concern or interest. Lambda lineage deserves close monitoring and could probably become a variant of concern in the near future.
Notoginsenoside R1 alleviates high glucose‐induced inflammation and oxidative stress in HUVECs via upregulating miR‐147a
Authors: Li Xiao‐Qing , Huang Tian‐Yi
Published: August 2021

Endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases has become one of the main characteristics in patients with diabetes mellitus, which is usually caused by abnormal inflammation and oxidative stress response. Presently, we focused on the role of Notoginsenoside R1 (NR1), a major component isolated from Panax notoginseng, in endothelial dysfunction caused by high glucose (HG). Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with HG and then dealt with NR1. Cell counting kit‐8 assay and 5‐bromo‐2′‐dexoyuridine assay were conducted to examine cell proliferation and viability. Flow cytometry was used to measure apoptosis. The angiogenesis of HUVECs was determined by tube formation assay. Moreover, the expressions of miR‐147a, inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐10) and oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase were measured. The protein levels of MyD88/TRAF6/NF‐κB axis, Bax, Bcl2, and Caspase3 were detected by Western blot. Furthermore, gain and loss of functional assays of miR‐147a were performed to verify the role of miR‐147a in NR1‐mediated effects. Our data confirmed that NR1 (at 10–40 μM) reduces HG‐induced HUVECs proliferation and viability inhibition, mitigates apoptosis, and enhances tube formation ability. Meanwhile, NR1 inhibited oxidative stress and inflammatory response and blocked the activation of the MyD88/TRAF6/NF‐κB pathway induced by HG. In addition, NR1 promoted the expression of miR‐147a, which targeted MyD88. Overexpression of miR‐147a markedly inactivated MyD88/TRAF6/NF‐κB pathway, while the miR‐147a inhibitors reversed NR1‐mediated protective effect in HG‐induced HUVECs through activating MyD88/TRAF6/NF‐κB pathway. In conclusion, NR1 relieves HG‐induced endothelial cell injury by downregulating the MyD88/TRAF6/NF‐κB pathway via upregulating miR‐147a.
Stability and Hopf bifurcation analysis of fractional‐order nonlinear financial system with time delay
Authors: Panigrahi Santoshi , Chand Sunita , Balamuralitharan Sundarappan
Published: August 2021

We deal with a fractional‐order nonlinear financial model with time delay in this paper. The quantitative analysis of the model has been done in which the asymptotic stability of the equilibrium points of the model have been discussed. Furthermore, the Hopf bifurcation analysis of the model has been done under the impact of time delay. The stability of the model has been studied with the reproduction number less than or greater than 1. The analysis of the model has been done by using the Laplace transformation technique. The analysis shows that the fractional‐order model with a time delay can adequately enhance the elements and fortify the results for either stable or unstable criteria. All unstable cases in the nonlinear financial system are converted to stable cases for fractional order under neighborhood points. The reproduction ranges of all parameters have been discussed. The paper examines the impact of time delay and the importance of determining essential parameters such as saving amount by using Hopf bifurcation. Finally, numerical simulations have been carried out by MATLAB to illustrate our derived results. The financial system is verified under the theoretical outcomes from parameter estimation.
Archaeological prospection in ultra‐shallow aquatic environments: the case of the prehistoric submerged site of Lambayanna, Greece
Authors: Papadopoulos Nikos , Oikonomou Dimitrios , Cantoro Gianluca , Simyrdanis Kleanthis , Beck Julien
Published: August 2021

Over the last three decades, multicomponent geophysical prospection has given a new perspective in the domain of inland archaeological prospection. However, the complexity and constantly evolving environmental regime encountered in the transition zones has so far limited the implementation of these technological advancements towards the understanding of the past dynamics in littoral and ultra‐shallow offshore environments. The main objective of this work is to appropriately adapt, test and validate the efficiency of diverse geophysical mapping and imaging methods for reconstructing the ancient built environment below a relatively thin water layer. The submerged prehistoric site of Lambayanna in Greece was used as an ‘open laboratory’ to explorein situthe resolving capabilities and limitations of marine three‐dimensional electrical resistivity tomography and multisensor magnetic gradiometry, as well as terrestrial ground‐penetrating radar. The geophysical mapping covered more than 4.4 hectares of the shallow marine and coastal part of the site with high spatial resolution. The data processing followed a specific flowchart to enhance the signal and the subsequent integrated analysis showed a number of candidate targets buried below the seabed, providing strong indications to support the hypothesis for the existence of an ancient submerged man‐made environment in the bay. The results demonstrate the complementary nature of applying multiple geophysical methods to under‐explored shallow offshore archaeological contexts in order to provide useful information for understanding the complex archaeological sites around the Mediterranean. The successful transfer of established geophysical methods into the ultra‐shallow aquatic environment comprises the major innovative aspect of this work. Thus, in view of climate change and the risks related to future sea‐level rise and erosion of low‐level coastal areas, the proposed research model can be integrated into a wider strategic framework for the sustainable management of coastal cultural resources.
Dimerization underlies the aggregation propensity of intrinsically disordered coiled‐coil domain‐containing 124
Authors: Tuzlakoğlu Öztürk Merve , Güllülü Ömer
Published: August 2021

Coiled‐coil domain‐containing 124 (CCDC124) is a recently discovered ribosome‐binding protein conserved in eukaryotes. CCDC124 has regulatory functions on the mediation of reversible ribosomal hibernation and translational recovery by direct attachment to large subunit ribosomal protein uL5, 25S rRNA backbone, and tRNA‐binding P/A‐site major groove. Moreover, it independently mediates cell division and cellular stress response by facilitating cytokinetic abscission and disulfide stress‐dependent transcriptional regulation, respectively. However, the structural characterization and intracellular physiological status of CCDC124 remain unknown. In this study, we employed advanced in silico protein modeling and characterization tools to generate a native‐like tertiary structure of CCDC124 and examine the disorder, low sequence complexity, and aggregation propensities, as well as high‐order dimeric/oligomeric states. Subsequently, dimerization of CCDC124 was investigated with co‐immunoprecipitation (CO‐IP) analysis, immunostaining, and a recent live‐cell protein–protein interaction method, bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC). Results revealed CCDC124 as a highly disordered protein consisting of low complexity regions at the N‐terminus and an aggregation sequence (151‐IAVLSV‐156) located in the middle region. Molecular docking and post‐docking binding free energy analyses highlighted a potential involvement of V153 residue on the generation of high‐order dimeric/oligomeric structures. Co‐IP, immunostaining, and BiFC analyses were used to further confirm the dimeric state of CCDC124 predominantly localized at the cytoplasm. In conclusion, our findings revealed in silico structural characterization and in vivo subcellular physiological state of CCDC124, suggesting low‐complexity regions located at the N‐terminus of disordered CCDC124 may regulate the formation of aggregates or high‐order dimeric/oligomeric states.
A Phase 1 first‐in‐human study of the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of the ROBO2 fusion protein PF‐06730512 in healthy participants
Authors: Lim Chay Ngee , Kantaridis Constantino , Huyghe Isabelle , Gorman Donal , Berasi Stephen , Sonnenberg Gabriele E.
Published: August 2021

Proteinuria associated with podocyte effacement is a hallmark of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Preclinical studies implicated ROBO2/SLIT2 signaling in the regulation of podocyte adhesion, and inhibition of this pathway is a novel target to slow FSGS disease progression. This first‐in‐human dose‐escalation study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and immunogenicity of PF‐06730512, an Fc fusion protein that targets the ROBO2/SLIT2 pathway, in healthy adults. In this Phase 1, double‐blind, sponsor‐open study, single ascending dose (SAD) cohorts were randomized to receive up to 1000 mg or placebo intravenously (IV); multiple ascending dose (MAD) cohorts were randomized to receive up to 400 mg subcutaneous (SC) doses, 1000 mg IV dose, or matching placebo. Safety evaluations were performed up to 71 (SAD) and 113 (MAD) days after dosing; blood samples were collected to measure serum PF‐06730512 concentrations and antidrug antibodies (ADA) to PF‐06730512. Seventy‐nine participants (SAD, 47; MAD, 32) were enrolled. There were 108 mild (SAD, 46; MAD, 62) and 21 moderate (SAD, 13; MAD, 8) treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs); no deaths, treatment‐related serious AEs, severe TEAEs, or infusion reactions were reported. PF‐06730512 exposure generally increased in an approximately dose‐proportional manner; mean t1/2 ranged from 12–15 days across 50–1000 mg doses. Immunogenicity incidence was low (SAD, 0 ADA+; MAD, 2 ADA+). In conclusion, single IV doses of PF‐06730512 up to 1000 mg and multiple IV and SC dosing up to 1000 and 400 mg, respectively, were safe and well tolerated in healthy participants. Further trials in patients with FSGS are warranted.

Clinical trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03146065.
A case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis mimicking lung malignancy
Authors: Han Michael , Pan Corinna
Published: August 2021

Patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) may present with varied manifestations including pulmonary masses and nodules. We report the case of a 45‐year‐old man presenting with cough, haemoptysis and weight loss in the context of a 20 pack‐year past smoking history. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest and positron emission tomography/CT scan demonstrated two right upper lobe masses, bilateral lung nodules and mediastinal lymphadenopathy, with increased fluorodeoxyglucose avidity. Endobronchial and CT‐guided lung biopsy demonstrated granulomatous inflammation and elevated c‐ANCA/PR3 confirmed the diagnosis of GPA. The patient received induction therapy with methylprednisolone and rituximab with good clinical response. Our case highlights the importance of considering a wide range of differentials in patients with lung masses/nodules, including autoimmune pathologies.
Brightening of Dark States in CsPbBr3 Quantum Dots Caused by Light‐Induced Magnetism
Authors: Lohmann Sven‐Hendrik , Cai Tong , Morrow Darien J. , Chen Ou , Ma Xuedan
Published: August 2021

Lead halide perovskite quantum dots (QDs) have shown great potential for optoelectronic and quantum photonic applications. Although controversy remains about the electronic fine structures of bulk perovskites due to the strong spin‐orbit coupling affecting the conduction bands, compelling evidence indicates that the ground states of perovskite QDs remain dark, limiting their applications in optoelectronic devices. Here, it is demonstrated that photoexcitation can induce large intrinsic magnetic fields in Mn‐doped CsPbBr3 perovskite QDs. Equivalent to applying an external magnetic field, the light‐induced field causes giant Zeeman splitting to the bright triplet states and brightens the dark singlet ground state, thus effectively rendering a partially bright ground state in the doped QDs. These findings here may contribute to the understanding of the electronic fine structures in perovskite QDs and demonstrate a potential approach for creating semiconductor nanostructures that can serve as bright light sources.
Real‐Time Biomonitoring Device Based on 2D Black Phosphorus and Polyaniline Nanocomposite Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Vaghasiya Jayraj V. , Křípalová Kristýna , Hermanová Soňa , Mayorga‐Martinez Carmen C. , Pumera Martin
Published: August 2021

Flexible energy storage devices are becoming significantly important to power wearable and portable devices that monitor physiological parameters for many biomedical applications. Many hybrid nanomaterials based on 2D materials are used in order to improve the performance of flexible energy storage devices. Here, a hybrid nanocomposite is synthesized through in situ polymerization of aniline in the presence of black phosphorus (BP) nanoflakes. This nanocomposite, polyaniline (PANI)@BP, is employed to fabricate flexible supercapacitor (FSC) electrodes. PANI@BP FSCs can provide a power source for biometric devices. The generated signal can be transmitted to a smartphone in real time via wireless communication. Such a compact and lightweight integrated device has been used to track a human heart beat while powered by PANI@BP FSC. These findings are providing a promising example of a flexible energy storage device that can be integrated with different real‐time health monitoring devices.
Guar Gum Nanocomposites: Green Corrosion Inhibitors of Iron‐Gall Ink on Paper Artworks
Authors: Afsharpour Maryam , Gilani Sorror
Published: August 2021

Iron‐Gall ink corrosion in paper artworks has always been a major challenge for restorers. In this study, a novel green nanocomposite based on Guar gum that can be used as a protective coating to prevent corrosion induce by oxidation and the acid hydrolysis process is introduced. For this purpose, Guar gum/calcium hydroxide/Klucel nanocomposite is used as an effective coating to stabilize the iron on paper and slow down the deterioration process. Guar gum is used as a chelating agent for Fe(II), Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles can deacidify the paper, and Klucel contributes to better dispersion of the nanoparticles and increase the mechanical strength of the paper and also can contribute to stabilizing Fe ions. This one‐step process for consolidation, deacidification, and antioxidation is a good way to decrease the physical damage, especially to sensitive papers, and saves time and materials too. To monitor the treatment effects over time, accelerated aging is also studied. Results show the good protective effects of nanocomposite coatings on the paper which retains its strength even after thermal aging due to a decrease in the rate of oxidation and hydrolysis reactions.