bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparative assessment of Fgf's diverse roles in inner ear development: A zebrafish perspective
Authors: Riley Bruce B. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractProgress in understanding mechanisms of inner ear development has been remarkably rapid in recent years. The research community has benefited from the availability of several diverse model organisms, including zebrafish, chick, and mouse. The complexity of the inner ear has proven to be a challenge, and the complexity of the mammalian cochlea in particular has been the subject of intense scrutiny. Zebrafish lack a cochlea and exhibit a number of other differences from amniote species, hence they are sometimes seen as less relevant for inner ear studies. However, accumulating evidence shows that underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms are often highly conserved. As a case in point, consideration of the diverse functions of Fgf and its downstream effectors reveals many similarities between vertebrate species, allowing meaningful comparisons the can benefit the entire research community. In this review, I will discuss mechanisms by which Fgf controls key events in early otic development in zebrafish and provide direct comparisons with chick and mouse.
Toxicological Response of Chironomus dilutus in Single-Chemical and Binary Mixture Exposure Experiments with 6 Perfluoralkyl Substances
Authors: McCarthy Christopher J. , Roark Shaun A. , Wright Demitria , O'Neal Kelly , Muckey Brett , Stanaway Mike , Rewerts Justin N. , Field Jennifer A. , Anderson Todd A. , Salice Christopher J. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Few studies have determined the toxicity of perfluoralkyl substances (PFAS) to aquatic invertebrates. We exposed Chironomus dilutus to 6 different PFAS to assess single-chemical toxicity and relative or proportional toxicity among substances. A 10-d range-finding test was conducted to inform 20-d assays for the following PFAS: perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS), perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS), and perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA). A 20-d binary mixture study of PFOS+PFHxS followed the single-chemical tests. Measurement endpoints for 20-d tests included larval survival and biomass. Log-logistic concentration response models were used to estimate 10, 20, and 50% effect concentrations (EC20, EC50) for PFOS, PFHxS, and PFOA. Survival EC50s for PFOS, PFHxS, and PFOA were 2.49, 3860, and 192 000 µg/L, respectively, whereas survival EC20s were 1.70, 913, and 119 000 µg/L for PFOS, PFHxS, and PFOA, respectively. Biomass as a combined survival and growth endpoint resulted in EC20s of 1.89, 896, and 137 000 µg/L for PFOS, PFHxS, and PFOA, respectively. Maximum concentrations tested (no-observed-effect concentrations) for PFNA, PFBS, and PFHpA were 2 to 3 orders of magnitude greater than the PFOS EC50s and showed no toxicity to C. dilutus, even at exposure concentrations well above what would be considered environmentally relevant. The binary mixture of 2.5 µg/L PFOS+1000 µg/L PFHxS showed reduced survival compared to controls and some indication of potential additive or synergistic interaction between PFOS and PFHxS. Overall, the present study supports previous studies showing PFOS to be the most toxic PFAS to aquatic life and suggests that PFOS could be more toxic to the freshwater midge than previously reported. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:2319–2333. © 2021 SETAC
Abstract
Toxicity bioassays for survival, growth, and biomass of Chironomus dilutus were conducted with 6 individual perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS; PFOS, PFHxS, PFOA, PFBS, PFNA, PFHpA) and with a binary mixture of PFOS and PFHxS. Effect concentrations were estimated where possible; NOECs and LOECs were also determined and are reported as applicable. NOEC = no-observed-effect concentration; LOEC = lowest-observed-effect concentration; ECx = x% effect concentration; PFOS = perfluorooctane sulfonate; PFHxS = perfluorohexanesulfonic acid; PFOA = perfluorooctanoic acid; PFBS = perfluorobutanesulfonic acid; PFNA = perfluorononanoic acid; PFHpA = perfluoroheptanoic acid.
Wildfires in the Chornobyl exclusion zone—Risks and consequences
Authors: Beresford Nicholas A. , Barnett Catherine L. , Gashchak Sergii , Kashparov Valery , Kirieiev Serhii I. , Levchuk Sviatoslav , Morozova Valeriia , Smith James T. , Wood Michael D. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Following the 1986 Chornobyl accident, an area approaching 5000 km2 surrounding the nuclear plant was abandoned, creating the Chornobyl exclusion zone (CEZ). Although this area likely contains the most radioactive terrestrial ecosystem on earth, the absence of humans and associated activities for nearly 35 years since the accident has resulted in increases in wildlife numbers. Both the Belarussian and Ukrainian components of the CEZ are now designated as nature reserves; together they form one of Europe's largest protected areas and have been described as an iconic example of rewilding. Forests and former agricultural land (now scrub) dominate the CEZ and wildfires are an annual event. In April 2020, the CEZ suffered its most widespread fires to date when greater than 800 km2 of the 2600 km2 Ukrainian portion of the CEZ was burnt. Large-scale fires in the CEZ have implications for wildlife, as they do elsewhere, but they also pose additional radioecological and radiological protection questions. We discuss the implications of wildfires in the CEZ, considering effects on wildlife and changes in radionuclide mobility. We also demonstrate that the risk to firefighters and the wider public from the inhalation of radionuclides in smoke resulting from fires in the CEZ is likely to be low. However, further experimental and modeling work to evaluate potential doses to firefighters from inhaled radioactive particles would be valuable, not least for reassurance purposes. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:1141–1150 © 2021 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
KEY POINTS
The approximately 5000 km2 Chernobyl Exclusion Zone contains what is likely the most radioactive terrestrial ecosystem on earth. Wildfires are an annual event in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. We discuss the implications of wildfires in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, considering effects on wildlife and changes in radionuclide mobility. We demonstrate that the risk to firefighters and the wider public from the inhalation of radionuclides in smoke resulting from fires in the CEZ is likely to be low.
Stone weir scour modelling in curved canals using a weighted regularized extreme learning machine*
Authors: Shahbazbeygi Ebrahim , Yosefvand Fariborz , Yaghoubi Behrouz , Shabanlou Saeid , Rajabi Ahmad 
Published: April 2021

AbstractIn this paper, a novel weighted regularized extreme learning machine (WRELM) was used for the first time to simulate the scour depth around J‐, I‐ and W‐shaped stone weirs in curved canals. In the first step, dimensionless parameters affecting the scour depth around stone weirs were detected. Then, six WRELM models were developed using these parameters. It is worth mentioning that three different experimental models were utilized for verifying the WRELM models. Moreover, 70% of the experimental data were used to train the models and the remaining 30% to test them. After that, the number of neurons existing within the hidden layer was chosen to be 13. Then the best activation function of the WRELM model was selected. The optimal regularization parameter was also found for this activation function. Conducting a comprehensive sensitivity analysis in the next step detected the best WRELM model, as well as the most influencing input variables. The results of the superior model were compared with the regularized extreme learning machine (RELM) and extreme learning machine (ELM) models to prove the noticeable superiority of the WRELM. Furthermore, a formula was proposed to compute the scour gap around stone weirs with different shapes situated in curved canals. Finally, the sensitivity of the input variables on scour values was examined.
Epigenetic transcripts of LINC01311 and hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p regulate neural development in a cellular model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Fan Yan , Zhang Jingjing , Zhuang Xianbo , Geng Fengyang , Jiang Guisheng , Yang Xiafeng 
Published: April 2021

AbstractEmerging evidence has shown that Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) are aberrantly expressed and functionally involved in the development of neurodegenerative disorders. In this work, we investigated the regulatory effects of lncRNA of LINC01311 and its competing endogenous RNA target of hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p in a cellular model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). SH‐SY5Y cells were treated with synthetic Βeta‐Amyloid Peptide (1‐42) (AB1‐42) in vitro to induce AD‐like neural injuries. Expressions of LINC01311 and hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p were monitored by qRT‐PCR. LINC01311 was upregulated and hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p downregulated to examine their functional regulations on AB1‐42‐induced apoptosis, proliferation slowdown, autophagy, and amyloid precursor protein (APP) accumulations. Hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p was also overexpressed in LINC01311‐upregulated SH‐SY5Y cells to examine their correlated regulations on AB1‐42‐induced neural injuries. LINC01311 was downregulated whereas hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p upregulated in AB1‐42 treated SH‐SY5Y cells. LINC01311 upregulation and hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p downregulation protected AB1‐42‐induced apoptosis, proliferation slowdown, autophagy, and APP accumulations in SH‐SY5Y cells. Hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p overexpression reversed the protection of LINC01311 on AB1‐42‐induced neural injuries. Our work demonstrated that the epigenetic axis of LINC01311/hsa‐miR‐146a‐5p was involved in the functional regulation of human‐lineage neurons in a cellular model of AD, thus suggesting a clinical potential of exploring epigenetic network for treating AD patients.
Targeting cyclin‐dependent kinase 6 by vanillin inhibits proliferation of breast and lung cancer cells: Combined computational and biochemical studies
Authors: Yousuf Mohd , Shamsi Anas , Queen Aarfa , Shahbaaz Mohd , Khan Parvez , Hussain Afzal , Alajmi Mohamed F. , Rizwanul Haque Qazi M. , Imtaiyaz Hassan Md. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractCyclin‐dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) is a member of serine/threonine kinase family, and its overexpression is associated with cancer development. Thus, it is considered as a potential drug target for anticancer therapies. This study showed the CDK6 inhibitory potential of vanillin using combined experimental and computational methods. Structure‐based docking and 200 ns molecular dynamics simulation studies revealed that the binding of vanillin stabilizes the CDK6 structure and provides mechanistic insights into the binding mechanism. Enzyme inhibition and fluorescence‐binding studies showed that vanillin inhibits CDK6 with an half maximal inhibitory concentration = 4.99 μM and a binding constant (K) 4.1 × 107 M−1. Isothermal titration calorimetry measurements further complemented our observations. Studies on human cancer cell lines (MCF‐7 and A549) showed that vanillin decreases cell viability and colonization properties. The protein expression studies have further revealed that vanillin reduces the CDK6 expression and induces apoptosis in the cancer cells. In conclusion, our study presents the CDK6‐mediated therapeutic implications of vanillin for anticancer therapies.
Feasibility of a cognitive behavioral online intervention for women with Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder
Authors: Stephenson Kyle R. , Zippan Natasha , Brotto Lori A. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractObjectivesDifficulties with sexual desire and arousal are common in women, but most lack access to effective treatment such as cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT). eSense is a recently created online CBT intervention for sexual difficulties with promising evidence of usability. The current study assessed the feasibility of women completing the full eSense CBT program without guidance.MethodsEleven women with Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder completed eSense and provided feedback via semi‐structured interviews.ResultsParticipants reported high satisfaction with eSense's functionality, improved knowledge about sexuality, greater awareness of their thought patterns, and better perspective around their sexual difficulties. Despite some difficulty completing homework, participants exhibited statistically significant pre‐post improvements in sexual desire (d = 1.04), sexual arousal (d = 1.83), sexual satisfaction (d = 1.35), and sexual distress (d = 1.79).ConclusionThe findings add to the growing evidence that self‐guided online interventions are feasible and potentially efficacious in treating female sexual dysfunction.
A novel laser‐cut fully covered metal stent with anti‐reflux valve in patients with malignant distal biliary obstruction refractory to conventional covered metal stent
Authors: Yamada Yuto , Sasaki Takashi , Takeda Tsuyoshi , Mie Takafumi , Furukawa Takaaki , Kasuga Akiyoshi , Matsuyama Masato , Ozaka Masato , Igarashi Yoshinori , Sasahira Naoki 
Published: April 2021

AbstractBackgroundStenting against recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) after placement of covered metal stent (CMS) for distal malignant biliary obstruction (MBO) is still challenging. This study investigated the feasibility of a novel laser‐cut fully CMS with anti‐reflux valve in patients with distal MBO refractory to conventional CMS.MethodsPatients who underwent Duckbill‐type metal stent (DMS) placement between June 2019 and May 2020 were included. Early complications, causes of RBO including non‐occlusion cholangitis, and time to RBO (TRBO) were evaluated. TRBO of DMS was also compared with that of previous CMS.ResultsThirty patients were included: pancreatic cancer/metastatic lymph nodes in 29 patients/one patient; duodenal stenosis in 13 patients. Technical and functional success were achieved in all patients. Mild cholangitis and mild pancreatitis developed in each one. Median follow‐up period was 167 days (range, 23‐527 days). RBO occurred in nine patients (30%): sludge formation in four patients, hemobilia in one patient, symptomatic distal stent migration in three patients, and non‐occlusion cholangitis in one patient. TRBO of DMS was significantly longer than that of previous CMS (median 224 days vs median 120 days, P = .0025). DMS was successfully removed in all of six patients when re‐intervention was needed.ConclusionsDuckbill‐type metal stent might be safe and effective in patients with distal MBO refractory to conventional CMS.
Epidemiology of acute respiratory viral infections in children in Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
Authors: Snoeck Chantal J. , Evdokimov Konstantin , Xaydalasouk Kinnaly , Mongkhoune Sodaly , Sausy Aurélie , Vilivong Keoudomphone , Pauly Maude , Hübschen Judith M. , Billamay Somxay , Muller Claude P. , Black Antony P. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractRespiratory infections are one of the most frequent reasons for medical consultations in children. In low resource settings such as in Lao People's Democratic Republic, knowledge gaps and the dearth of laboratory capacity to support differential diagnosis may contribute to antibiotic overuse. We studied the etiology, temporal trends, and genetic diversity of viral respiratory infections in children to provide evidence for prevention and treatment guidelines. From September 2014 to October 2015, throat swabs and nasopharyngeal aspirates from 445 children under 10 years old with symptoms of acute respiratory infection were collected at the Children Hospital in Vientiane. Rapid antigen tests were performed for influenza A and B and respiratory syncytial virus. Real‐time reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reactions (RT‐PCRs) were performed to detect 16 viruses. Influenza infections were detected with a higher sensitivity using PCR than with the rapid antigen test. By RT‐PCR screening, at least one pathogen could be identified for 71.7% of cases. Human rhinoviruses were most frequently detected (29.9%), followed by influenza A and B viruses combined (15.9%). We identify and discuss the seasonality of some of the infections. Altogether these data provide a detailed characterization of respiratory pathogens in Lao children and we provide recommendations for vaccination and further studies.
Ten‐year experience in optimizing neoadjuvant therapy for localized pancreatic cancer—Medical college of Wisconsin perspective
Authors: Ward Erin P. , Evans Douglas B. , Tsai Susan 
Published: April 2021

AbstractTreatment of localized pancreatic cancer has also evolved to prioritize preoperative (neoadjuvant) multimodality therapy over a surgery‐first approach. Given the complexities of pancreatic cancer staging and the challenge of delivering multiple treatment modalities (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery), an experienced and highly integrated multidisciplinary team is necessary to achieve the best outcomes. In this review, we will discuss our institutional experience with neoadjuvant therapy, guiding principles for treatment, and outline the landscape for future investigations.
A NSQIP‐based randomized clinical trial evaluating choice of prophylactic antibiotics for pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Brajcich Brian C. , Ko Clifford Y. , Liu Jason B. , Ellis Ryan J. , D′Angelica Michael I. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractSurgical site infection after pancreaticoduodenectomy is often caused by pathogens resistant to standard prophylactic antibiotics, suggesting that broad‐spectrum antibiotics may be more effective prophylactic agents. This article describes the rationale and methodology underlying a multicenter randomized trial evaluating piperacillin–tazobactam compared with cefoxitin for surgical site infection prevention following pancreaticoduodenectomy. As the first US randomized surgical trial to utilize a clinical registry for data collection, this study serves as proof of concept for registry‐based clinical trials.
Nerve transfers to restore femoral nerve function following oncologic nerve resection
Authors: O'Brien Andrew L. , West Julie M. , Zewdu Abbie , Grignol Valerie P. , Scharschmidt Thomas J. , Moore Amy M. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractIntroductionAdvances in the care of soft‐tissue tumors, including imaging capabilities and adjuvant radiation therapy, have broadened the indications and opportunities to pursue surgical limb salvage. However, peripheral nerve involvement and femoral nerve resection can still result in devastating functional outcomes. Nerve transfers offer a versatile solution to restore nerve function following tumor resection.MethodsTwo cases were identified by retrospective review. Patient and disease characteristics were gathered. Preoperative and postoperative motor function were assessed using the Medical Research Council Muscle Scale. Patient‐reported pain levels were assessed using the numeric rating scale.ResultsNerve transfers from the obturator and sciatic nerve were employed to restore knee extension. Follow up for Case 1 was 24 months, 8 months for Case 2. In both patients, knee extension and stabilization of gait without bracing was restored. Patient also demonstrated 0/10 pain (an average improvement of 5 points) with decreased neuromodulator and pain medication use.ConclusionNerve transfers can restore function and provide pain control benefits and ideally are performed at the time of tumor extirpation. This collaboration between oncologic and nerve surgeons will ultimately result in improved functional recovery and patient outcomes.
Components identification and isomers differentiation in pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L.) leaves by LC‐MS
Authors: Guo Zili , Zhu Peixi , He Xiaoai , Yan Tianhe , Liang Xianrui 
Published: April 2021

AbstractA valid and reliable method based on ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry using electrospray ionization was established to identify chemical constituents in the ethanol extract of pigeon pea leaves. A total of 58 compounds were detected both in positive and negative modes. Among them, 42 compounds, including 16 flavones, 1 flavonol, 5 flavanones, 9 isoflavones, 1 coumarin, 1 lactone, 6 stilbenes, 2 chalcones, and 1 other compound, were unambiguously identified or tentatively assigned in view of the retention time, the molecular formula, as well as the fragmentation patterns. Moreover, eight sets of isomers were differentiated by the ion trap mass spectrometry based on the fragment ion differences or the abundance differences of the same fragment ions. The energy‐resolved mass spectrometry in light of the relative abundance of characteristic fragment ions was adopted in the study.
Evaluation of Connectivity Among American Black Bear Populations in Georgia
Authors: HOOKER MICHAEL J. , CLARK JOSEPH D. , BOND BOBBY T. , CHAMBERLAIN MICHAEL J. 
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACTHabitat fragmentation and loss contribute to isolation of wildlife populations and increased extinction risks for various species, including many large carnivores. We studied a small and isolated population of American black bears (Ursus americanus) that is of conservation concern in central Georgia, USA (i.e., central Georgia bear population [CGBP]). Our goal was to evaluate the potential for demographic and genetic interchange from neighboring bear populations to the CGBP. To evaluate resource selection and movement potential, we used 35,487 global positioning system locations collected every 20 minutes from 2012 to 2014 from 33 male bears in the CGBP. We then developed a step selection function model based on conditional logistic regression. Male bears chose steps that avoided crops, roads, and human developments and were closer to forests and woody wetlands than expected based on availability. We used a geographic information system to simulate 300 bear movement paths from nearby bear populations in northern Florida, northern Georgia, and southern Georgia to estimate the potential for immigration to the CGBP. Only 4 simulated movement paths from the nearby populations intersected the CGBP. The creation of a hypothetical 1‐km‐wide corridor between the southern Georgia population and the CGBP produced only minor improvements in interchange. Our findings suggest that demographic connectivity between the CGBP and surrounding bear populations may be limited, and coupled with previous works showing genetic isolation in the CGBP, that creation of corridors may have only marginal effects on restoring gene flow, at least in the near term. Management actions such as translocation and the establishment of stepping stone populations may be needed to increase the genetic diversity and demographic stability of bears in the CGBP. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.