bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acetazolamide to increase natriuresis in congestive heart failure at high risk for diuretic resistance
Authors: Verbrugge Frederik H. , Martens Pieter , Ameloot Koen , Haemels Veerle , Penders Joris , Dupont Matthias , Tang Wai Hong Wilson , Droogné Walter , Mullens Wilfried
Published: May 2019

Aims

To investigate the effects of acetazolamide on natriuresis, decongestion, kidney function and neurohumoral activation in acute heart failure (AHF).

Methods and results

This prospective, two‐centre study included 34 AHF patients on loop diuretics with volume overload. All had a serum sodium concentration < 135 mmol/L and/or serum urea/creatinine ratio > 50 and/or an admission serum creatinine increase of > 0.3 mg/dL compared to baseline. Patients were randomised towards acetazolamide 250–500 mg daily plus bumetanide 1–2 mg bid vs. high‐dose loop diuretics (bumetanide bid with daily dose twice the oral maintenance dose). The primary endpoint was natriuresis after 24 h. Natriuresis after 24 h was similar in the combinational treatment vs. loop diuretic only arm (264 ± 126 vs. 234 ± 133 mmol; P = 0.515). Loop diuretic efficiency, defined as natriuresis corrected for loop diuretic dose, was higher in the group receiving acetazolamide (84 ± 46 vs. 52 ± 42 mmol/mg bumetanide; P = 0.048). More patients in the combinational treatment arm had an increase in serum creatinine levels > 0.3 mg/dL (P = 0.046). N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide reduction and peak neurohumoral activation within 72 h were comparable among treatment arms. There was a non‐significant trend towards lower all‐cause mortality or heart failure readmissions in the group receiving acetazolamide with low‐dose loop diuretics vs. high‐dose loop diuretic monotherapy (P = 0.098).

Conclusion

Addition of acetazolamide increases the natriuretic response to loop diuretics compared to an increase in loop diuretic dose in AHF at high risk for diuretic resistance.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01973335.
Monitoring of biofilms grown on differentially structured metallic surfaces using confocal laser scanning microscopy
Authors: Kleine Daniel , Chodorski Jonas , Mitra Sayani , Schlegel Christin , Huttenlochner Katharina , Müller‐Renno Christine , Mukherjee Joydeep , Ziegler Christiane , Ulber Roland
Published: May 2019

Imaging of biofilms on opaque surfaces is a challenge presented to researchers especially considering pathogenic bacteria, as those typically grow on living tissue, such as mucosa and bone. However, they can also grow on surfaces used in industrial applications such as food production, acting as a hindrance to the process. Thus, it is important to understand bacteria better in the environment they actually have relevance in. Stainless steel and titanium substrata were line structured and dotted surface topographies for titanium substrata were prepared to analyze their effects on biofilm formation of a constitutively green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐expressingEscherichia colistrain. The strain was batch cultivated in a custom built flow cell initially for 18 h, followed by continuous cultivation for 6 h. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was used to determine the biofilm topography. Biofilm growth ofE. coliGFPmut2 was not affected by the type of metal substrate used; rather, attachment and growth were influenced by variable shapes of the microstructured titanium surfaces. In this work, biofilm cultivation in flow cells was coupled with the most widely used biofilm analytical technique (CLSM) to study the time course of growth of a GFP‐expressing biofilm on metallic surfaces without intermittent sampling or disturbing the natural development of the biofilm.
A conversation with Ian MacNeill
Authors: Jandhyala Venkata K. , Naumova Elena N.
Published: May 2019

Ian B. MacNeill, an outstanding statistician of our times, passed away on January 16, 2019. He left the legacy of fundamental contributions to change‐point and forecasting methodology, environmetrics, and health statistics. He was an integral part of building The International Environmetrics Society and its journal Environmetrics. He was a thoughtful visionary scientist and a caring mentor for students and faculty. We were fortunate to record the conversation with Ian when all three of us were participating in the 2016 annual meeting of the Statistical Society of Canada. At the meeting, a special session was organized to honor Ian MacNeill in celebration of his 85th birth year. This conversation took place between Ian MacNeill, Krishna Jandhyala, and Elena Naumova at the Four Points by Sheraton, Niagara Suites on June 1, 2016.
Deficient IL‐6/Stat3 Signaling, High TLR7, and Type I Interferons in Early Human Alcoholic Liver Disease: A Triad for Liver Damage and Fibrosis
Authors: Stärkel Peter , Schnabl Bernd , Leclercq Sophie , Komuta Mina , Bataller Ramon , Argemi Josepmaria , Palma Elena , Chokshi Shilpa , Hellerbrand Claus , Maccioni Luca , Lanthier Nicolas , Leclercq Isabelle
Published: May 2019

Mechanisms underlying alcohol‐induced liver injury and its progression still remain incompletely understood. Animal models can only address some aspects of the pathophysiology that requires studies directly in humans, which are scarce. We assessed liver inflammatory and immune responses at early stages of alcoholic liver disease in a unique cohort of alcohol‐dependent patients undergoing a highly standardized alcohol withdrawal program. In active drinkers, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction revealed alcohol‐induced activation of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin (IL)‐1β, and nuclear factor kappa B in liver tissue already at early disease stages. Double immunofluorescence staining indicated that this proinflammatory response was restricted to activated, CD68‐positive macrophages. In parallel, down‐regulation of IL‐6, inhibition of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) pathway, as well as blunted cyclin D expression in hepatocytes, reduced proliferation and favored hepatocyte apoptosis. In addition, immunofluorescence and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction of liver tissue showed that alcohol also activated the toll‐like receptor (TLR) 7–interferon (IFN) axis in hepatocytes, which was confirmed in alcohol‐stimulated primary human hepatocytes and precision‐cut liver slices in vitro. Activation of the TLR7–IFN axis strongly correlated with liver fibrosis markers and disease progression. Two weeks of abstinence attenuated the inflammatory response but did not allow recovery of the defective Stat3 pathway or effect on fibrosis‐associated factors. Conclusion: In humans, inflammation, activation of the TLR7–IFN axis, and inhibition of Stat3‐dependent repair mechanisms in early alcoholic liver disease pave the way for fibrosis development and ultimately disease progression.
Mesoscale spatial variability of soil‐water content in an alpine meadow on the northern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhu Xuchao , Shao Mingan , Liang Yin , Tian Zhiyuan , Wang Xin , Qu Lili
Published: May 2019

Soil water is an important limiting factor for restoring alpine meadows on the northern Tibetan Plateau. Field studies of soil‐water content (SWC), however, are rare due to the harsh environment, especially in a mesoscale alpine‐meadow ecosystem. The objective of this study was to assess the spatial variability of SWC and the temporal variation of the spatial variability in a typical alpine meadow using a geostatistical approach. SWC was measured using a neutron probe to a depth of 50 cm at 113 locations on 22 sampling occasions in a 33.5‐hm2 alpine meadow during the 2015 and 2016 growing seasons. Mean SWC in the study plot for the two growing seasons was 18.7, 14.0, 13.9, 14.3, and 14.8% for depths of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 cm, respectively, and SWC was significantly larger at 10 cm than at other depths. SWC was negatively correlated with its spatial variability, and the spatial variability was higher when SWC was lower. Thirty‐three sampling locations in this study plot met the requirement of accuracy of the central limit theorem. A Gaussian model was the best fit for SWC semivariance at depths of 10, 20, and 30 cm, and the spatial structural ratio was between 0.997 and 1, indicating a strong spatial dependence of SWC. The sill and range fluctuated temporally, and the nugget and spatial structural ratio did not generally vary with time. The sill was significantly positively correlated with SWC and was initially stable and then tend to increase with SWC. The nugget, range, and spatial structure ratio, however, were not correlated with SWC. These results contribute to our understanding of SWC spatial distribution and variation in alpine meadows and provide basic empirical SWC data for mesoscale model simulations, optimizing sampling strategies and managing meadows on the Tibetan Plateau.
U.S. economic uncertainty, EU business cycles, and the global financial crisis
Authors: Choudhry Taufiq , Hassan Syed S. , Shabi Sarosh
Published: May 2019

This paper investigates the impact of the U.S. economic uncertainty on the business cycles (changes in the industrial production) of 12 European Union (EU) countries before and during the global financial crisis. Empirical tests are conducted using the linear and non‐linear causality tests, impulse response function, and variance decomposition. Results show ample evidence of causality from the U.S. uncertainty to EU business cycles only when the crisis period is included in the analysis. Both the linear and non‐linear tests confirm the significance of U.S. uncertainty as a short‐term predictor of business cycles of the EU.
Debt and growth: Decomposing the cause and effect relationship
Authors: Swamy Vighneswara
Published: May 2019

This study provides a data‐rich analysis of the dynamics of government debt and economic growth for a longer period (1960–2009). It spans across different debt regimes and involves a worldwide sample of countries that is more representative than that of studies confined to advanced countries. This study observes a negative relationship between government debt and growth. The point estimates of the range of econometric specifications suggest that a 10‐percentage point increase in the debt‐to‐gross domestic product ratio is associated with 23 basis point reduction in average growth. The results establish the nonlinear relationship between debt and growth. Further, by employing panel vector autoregressions approach, this study decomposes the cause and effect relationship between debt and growth and offers an answer to the question—Does high debt lead to low growth or low growth leads to high debt? The results derived from the impulse–response functions and variance decomposition show the evidence of the long‐term effect of debt on economic growth. The results indicate that the effect is not uniform for all countries but depends mostly on the debt regimes and other important macroeconomic variables like inflation, trade openness, general government final consumption expenditure, and foreign direct investment.
Cutaneous metastasis of prostate carcinoma treated with electron radiotherapy
Authors: Arase Shigeki , Sanuki Naoko , Matsuura Hiroshi
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Prostate carcinoma is typically diagnosed and treated, and it rarely manifests as cutaneous metastases. We herein report electron radiotherapy for the treatment of cutaneous metastases causing cellulitis, with a durable clinical response achieved.

Case presentation

A 70‐year‐old male patient with scrotal cutaneous metastasis of prostate carcinoma was undergoing treatment with docetaxel chemotherapy due to recurring cellulitis originating from the scrotum, and his treatment was interrupted. We administered electron radiotherapy to the scrotal cutaneous metastasis lesions, as irradiation was difficult, and obtained a good clinical effect. Subsequently, he continued chemotherapy, and the scrotal lesions remained clear and dry with no recurring cellulitis for 1 year.

Conclusion

Electron radiotherapy is one of the safe and effective treatment options for controlling cutaneous metastasis of prostate carcinoma.
How To Build a Bone: PHOSPHO1, Biomineralization, and Beyond
Authors: Dillon Scott , Staines Katherine A , Millán José Luis , Farquharson Colin
Published: May 2019

Since its characterization two decades ago, the phosphatase PHOSPHO1 has been the subject of an increasing focus of research. This work has elucidated PHOSPHO1's central role in the biomineralization of bone and other hard tissues, but has also implicated the enzyme in other biological processes in health and disease. During mineralization PHOSPHO1 liberates inorganic phosphate (Pi) to be incorporated into the mineral phase through hydrolysis of its substrates phosphocholine (PCho) and phosphoethanolamine (PEA). Localization of PHOSPHO1 within matrix vesicles allows accumulation of Pi within a protected environment where mineral crystals may nucleate and subsequently invade the organic collagenous scaffold. Here, we examine the evidence for this process, first discussing the discovery and characterization of PHOSPHO1, before considering experimental evidence for its canonical role in matrix vesicle–mediated biomineralization. We also contemplate roles for PHOSPHO1 in disorders of dysregulated mineralization such as vascular calcification, along with emerging evidence of its activity in other systems including choline synthesis and homeostasis, and energy metabolism. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A method for improving the efficiency of DNA extraction from clotted blood samples
Authors: Mardan‐Nik Maryam , Saffar Soflaei Sara , Biabangard‐Zak Atefeh , Asghari Mahla , Saljoughian Sania , Tajbakhsh Amir , Meshkat Zahra , Ferns Gordon A. , Pasdar Alireza , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid
Published: May 2019

Background

The efficient and rapid extraction of high‐quality genomic DNA from clotted blood samples, which normally have a low yield and poor quality, is an important factor in genomic research. The objective of this study was to develop a simple and safe technique for dispersing the blood clots by the ball bearing metal shots. Normally, such clot samples may not have an acceptable yield by conventional DNA extraction methods. Also, in the present study, we have further investigated to improve salting‐out DNA extraction methods.

Methods

Initially, 500 µL phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) (1×) and two ball bearing metal shots were added to each tube of the clotted blood sample and then were gently rotated in an electric laboratory rotator for 1 hour at room temperature (18‐25°C). Genomic DNA was then extracted from samples using a modified salting‐out method and a modified QIAamp® DNA Blood Midi Kit and was compared with QIAamp® DNA Blood Midi Kit as a control. An assessment of the concentration and quality of the extracted DNA was performed using the UV‐visible spectrophotometer. The isolated DNA proved amenable to PCR amplification and gel electrophoresis.

Results

The yield and purity of DNA obtained by these three methods were significantly different (P < 0.001), with a higher yield in the modified salting‐out method.

Conclusions

Our proposed modified salting‐out method is simple and efficient for the isolation of DNA from old blood clot samples. It is both easy to use and is of low cost in routine laboratory tasks.
MiR‐423‐5p inhibition alleviates cardiomyocyte apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction caused by hypoxia/reoxygenation through activation of the wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway via targeting MYBL2
Authors: Zhu Xin , Lu Xiaolan
Published: May 2019

MicroRNA (miR) plays an integral role in cardiovascular diseases. M‐iR‐423‐5p is aberrantly expressed in patients with myocardial infarction and heart failure. The aim of the present study was to study the roles and mechanisms of miR‐423‐5p in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) mediated cardiomyocytes injury. H9C2 cells were transfected with negative control, miR‐423‐5p mimic, and inhibitor for 48 hr, followed by exposed to H/R condition. Cell apoptosis rate, caspase 3/7 activities, Bax and cleaved‐caspase 3 (c‐caspase 3) protein levels were assayed by flow cytometry, Caspase‐Glo 3/7 Assay kit, western blot analysis, respectively. Furthermore, the mitochondrial membrane potential, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and Drp1 expression were also investigated. Furthermore, the dual‐luciferase reporter assay was used to evaluate the relationship between miR‐423‐5p and Myb‐related protein B (MYBL2). The roles of miR‐423‐5p in wnt/β‐catenin were assessed by western blot analysis. The results revealed that H/R triggered miR‐423‐5p expression. Overexpression of miR‐423‐5p promoted cardiomyocyte apoptosis, enhanced the activities of caspase 3/7, upregulated the expression of Bax and c‐caspase 3. miR‐423‐5p upregulation caused the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and the reduction of ATP content, the augment of ROS production and Drp1 expression. However, the opposite trends were observed upon suppression of miR‐423‐5p. In addition, miR‐423‐5p could target the 3′ untranslated region of MYBL2. miR‐423‐5p depletion led to the activation of the wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway via targeting MYBL2. Knockdown of MYBL2 was obviously reversed the roles of miR‐423‐5p in apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction. Taken together, miR‐423‐5p suppression reduced H/R‐induced cardiomyocytes injury through activation of the wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway via targeting MYBL2 in cardiomyocytes.
Microbially induced corrosion in oilfield: microbial quantification and optimization of biocide application
Authors: Senthilmurugan Balasubramanian , Radhakrishnan Jayaprakash Sandhala , Poulsen Morten , Arana Victor Hugo , Al‐Qahtani Misfera , Jamsheer Abdullah Fadel
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Microbial corrosion is a serious challenge for the oil and gas industry worldwide, leading to huge economic losses and production issues. Successful mitigation of microbial corrosion requires a complete characterization of the microbial community present in the system. This paper deals with the extensive microbial analysis and study of performance of biocide formulations for different water types in an oilfield.

RESULTS

Water, solid and coupon samples were collected at various points in the production system and analyzed for total microbial numbers by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and microbial diversity using next‐generation sequencing (NGS). A high‐throughput multi‐well system was used to screen eight different biocide formulations at various dosage levels. A pipeline simulator reactor was developed and used to represent field conditions such as temperature, flow and shear rates. The tests showed that the dominant microbial species causing corrosion were sulfate‐reducing Desulfovibrio spp. in seawater and brackish water systems and acid‐producing fermentative Halanaerobium spp. in effluent water. The results showed that different biocide treatment strategies have to be adopted for treating different water types. Biocide formulations containing ADBAC and THPS + surfactant showed the most promising results for seawater, whereas biocide formulations of ADBAC and THPS + glutaraldehyde performed better for brackish and effluent waters.

CONCLUSION

The study has shown that molecular methods such as qPCR and NGS provide better and accurate evaluation of the microbial community in the field compared with conventional growth‐based methods, leading to optimized mitigation strategies. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Numerical and experimental assessment of a miniature bioreactor equipped with a mechanical agitator and non‐invasive biosensors
Authors: Li Chao , Tian Jiangtao , Wang Weifei , Peng Huadong , Zhang Ming , Hang Haifeng , Zhang Siliang , Xia Jian‐Ye
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Sufficient oxygen supply and stable process control are crucial for the successful screening and process optimization of aerobic microorganisms in small‐scale bioreactors. In this work, a miniature bioreactor (volume 80 mL) equipped with non‐invasive biosensors was developed and characterized.

RESULTS

To enable proper mixing and high oxygen transfer rate, a mechanical agitator with large diameter (0.56 tank diameter) and submerged aeration were applied. The flow fields formed in the miniature bioreactor under a wide range of conditions (filling volume 30–70 mL, agitation speed 300–1100 rpm and aeration rate 0–4 vvm) were numerically analyzed by computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The miniature bioreactor performed with a suitable mixing time (<4 s) and a high oxygen transfer coefficient (kLa > 1000 h−1). It showed that engineering parameters including mass transfer, mixing and shear were more sensitive to agitation than either filling volume or aeration. Correlations for quantitative evaluation of the engineering parameters were established. The predicted oxygen transfer coefficient by CFD showed good agreement with both experimental and reported data. Furthermore, cultivations of Escherichia coli and Pichia pastoris in the mini bioreactor verified the excellent performance.

CONCLUSION

The developed miniature bioreactor will provide a reliable tool for screening and process optimization, and the presented correlations that predict the engineering parameters will make it convenient to achieve scale‐up. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Plasma methionine concentrations and incidence of hypermethioninemic encephalopathy during infancy in a large cohort of 36 patients with classical homocystinuria in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Allen John , Power Bronwyn , Abedin Aida , Purcell Orla , Knerr Ina , Monavari Ahmad
Published: May 2019

Background

Classical homocystinuria is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by profound cystathionine β‐synthase deficiency. Its biochemical hallmarks are high concentrations of plasma homocyst(e)ine and methionine. Clinical manifestations include lens dislocation, developmental delay, skeletal anomalies, or thromboembolism. Limited literature exists outlining the risk of encephalopathy associated with hypermethioninemia presenting in children with classical homocystinuria.

Aim

To assess the quality of metabolic control and plasma methionine concentrations in infancy in a cohort of 36 patients with classical homocystinuria in the Republic of Ireland.

Methods

Review of biochemical and clinical data including neuroradiological results that are available for the first year of life in our patients diagnosed on newborn screening was performed with appropriate consent and ethical approval.

Results and Discussion

Median total homocyst(e)ine and methionine plasma concentrations were 78 and 55 μmol/L, respectively. Methionine concentrations were significantly higher in neonates as opposed to older children. The highest methionine level identified was 1329 μmol/L in a child who presented clinically with encephalopathy. Elevated homocyst(e)ine and methionine levels are associated with significant morbidities. Therefore, prevention of complications requires prompt recognition and treatment. Chronic and acute complications may be encountered in patients with classical homocystinuria and plasma methionine concentrations pose an additional risk factor.
Impact of Head‐Down Position on Cerebral Blood Flow in Healthy Subjects: An Arterial Spin‐Labeling MR Perfusion Study
Authors: Mejdoubi Mehdi , Pavilla Aude , Colombani Sylvie , Duvauferrier Régis , Cepeda Ibarra Yamilet , Seiller Ian
Published: May 2019

Background

A head‐down (HD) position is used in some stroke centers to maintain cerebral perfusion (CP) in stroke patients.

Purpose

To assess CP in healthy volunteers in the supine and HD (–15°) positions.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Eighteen healthy subjects of 53 (±8) years old.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T / arterial spin‐labeling (ASL) in the supine position and after 4 minutes of HD position.

Assessment

Regions of interest from reconstructed cerebral blood‐flow (CBF) maps: subcortical nuclear gray matter (accumbens, amygdala, caudate, hippocampus, pallidum, putamen, thalamus), cortical gray matter (cGM), and white matter (WM). We also monitored hemodynamic parameters.

Statistical Tests

Shapiro–Wilk test, analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests, Student's t‐tests, and Pearson correlation analysis.

Results

CBF was higher in women compared to men, whatever the position (mean difference of 17% in supine, and 13% in HD position). From supine to HD position, CBF was decreased in all regions (mean decrease of –7%). Simultaneously, mean arterial pressure and systolic blood pressure increased (respectively P = 0.004 and P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

The CBF decrease, despite increased hemodynamic parameters, may indicate efficient cerebral autoregulation. Our results seem to reflect only early cerebral autoregulation stages but may open the way towards a more precise understanding of CP.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:218–224.
CMOS rectifier design for RFID chip with high sensitivity at low input power to be combined with an ultrasmall antenna
Authors: Jantarachote Vasan , Tontisirin Sitt , Akkaraekthalin Prayoot , Negra Renato , Chalermwisutkul Suramate
Published: May 2019

This paper presents CMOS radio frequency (RF) rectifier circuit design for radio frequency identification (RFID) tag with integrated on‐chip antenna. The proposed design focuses on high sensitivity and high efficiency at low input power. The rectifier circuit was designed using Advanced Design System (ADS) software tool with the UMC130 process as a single‐ended rectifier structure in different topologies where sensitivity and efficiency enhancement techniques are applied. This work presents the performance of the proposed CMOS RF rectifier circuit in comparison with previously published works for 915 MHz and 5.8 GHz operating frequencies. For the 915 MHz band, the highest sensitivity of −19.8 dBm is provided by the adaptive threshold voltage compensation circuit with a power conversion efficiency of 9.843%. The 5.8 GHz band uses the adaptive threshold voltage compensation and dynamic bulk bias techniques providing the highest sensitivity of −16.8 dBm. Compared with other works in the literature, the proposed circuits offer greater sensitivity and can easily be matched with ultrasmall on‐chip antennas because of appropriate values of the input impedance.
Understanding dynamics of Rhizophagus irregularis ontogenesis in axenically developed coculture through basic and advanced microscopic techniques
Authors: Chaudhary Shikha , Gupta Priyanka , Srivastava Shivani , Adholeya Alok
Published: May 2019

Detailed information on structural changes that occur during ontogenesis of Rhizophagus irregularis in axenically developed coculture is limited. Our study aims to investigate the series of events that occur during mycorrhizal ontogenesis under axenic condition through basic and advanced microscopic techniques followed by comparison among these to identify the suitable technique for rapid and detailed analysis of mycorrhizal structures. Three stages were identified in mycorrhizal ontogenesis from initiation (preinfection stage of hyphae; its branching, infection and appressoria formation; epidermal opening; and hyphal entry), progression (arbuscular development; hyphal coils and vesicles) to maturity (extraradical spores). Scanning electron microscopy was found to be an efficient tool for studying spatial three‐dimensional progression. Adding to the advantages of advanced microscopy, potential of autofluorescence to explore the stages of symbiosis nondestructively was also established. We also report imaging of ultrathin sections by bright field microscopy to provide finer details at subcellular interface. Owing to the merits of nondestructive sampling, ease of sample preparation, autofluorescence (no dye required), no use of toxic chemicals, rapid analysis and in depth characterization confocal laser scanning microscopy was identified as the most preferred technique. The method thus developed can be used for detailed structural inquisition of mycorrhizal symbiosis both in in planta and in an in vitro system.
A note on air temperature and precipitation variability and extremes over Asmara: 1914–2015
Authors: Fessehaye Mussie , Brugnara Yuri , Savage Michael J. , Brönnimann Stefan
Published: May 2019

Meteorological series (daily precipitation, minimum and maximum air temperature) for Asmara (Eritrea) for the last 100 years (1914–2015) are analysed. The data were quality‐controlled and homogenized using publicly available data from surrounding countries as well as newly recovered data from 12 stations in Eritrea. Overall, the Asmara data showed a consistent pattern and there were no outliers outside of four standard deviations from the corresponding reference. Climate indices were calculated using the program RClimDex. Overall, 8 indices for description of the air temperature data and 10 for precipitation data were calculated. The analyses of averages and indices reveal large climatic variations in the central highlands of Eritrea. The results indicate significant changes in air temperature since 1943, with daily minimum and maximum air temperature increasing at a similar rate of 0.22 and 0.19°C/decade, respectively. The diurnal air temperature range shows a non‐significant decreasing trend over the study period. No significant variation was found in the annual total and the seasonal precipitation over the last century. Significant trends were detected for some daily precipitation indices, although the lack of reference series prevents an evaluation of their reliability.
Genotype and environment effects on the chemical composition and rheological properties of field peas
Authors: Maharjan Pankaj , Penny Jake , Partington Debra L , Panozzo Joe F
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

The inclusion of pulses in traditional wheat‐based food products such as bread, cakes, and pasta is increasing as the food industry and consumers are recognizing the nutritional benefits due to high protein, antioxidant activity, and good sources of dietary fiber of pulses. In all crops, including cereals, oilseeds, and pulses, variability in chemical composition is known to exist due to genetic differences and environmental effects. This study reports the effect of genotype and environment on seed composition and the rheological properties of field‐pea genotypes for both field‐pea flour and isolated starch.

RESULTS

Genotype had a significant effect on the chemical composition (protein, total starch, water‐soluble carbohydrates, and phenolic compounds), the mean starch granule size, and rheological properties (peak viscosity, breakdown viscosity, final viscosity, peak time, and pasting temperature) of the field peas. The growing environment also had a significant effect on starch granule size, phytic acid, water‐soluble carbohydrates, some phenolic compounds, and pasting characteristics of field peas. Genotype × environment (G × E) interactions were observed for protein, some phenolic compounds, and some pasting characteristics.

CONCLUSION

Genotype and the growing environment had a significant effect on the chemical composition and rheological properties of the field pea. The variability in composition and quality traits could be exploited through plant breeding and optimized agronomic practices to increase production of field peas with the desired quality traits. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Pembrolizumab‐induced mucositis in a patient with recurrent hypopharynx squamous cell cancer
Authors: Pelster Meredith S. , Mott Frank , Lewin Jan
Published: May 2019

Pembrolizumab, an anti‐PD‐1 checkpoint inhibitor, is used in patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck who have received prior therapy with a platinum‐based regimen. As a monotherapy, it is generally well tolerated, but a small percentage of patients may develop immune‐mediated inflammatory reactions. We report a case of mucositis and laryngeal edema in a patient on pembrolizumab and review the literature. Laryngoscope, 130:E140–E143, 2020
Extranodal extension is a strong prognosticator in HPV‐positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bauer Eric , Mazul Angela , Chernock Rebecca , Rich Jason , Jackson Ryan S. , Paniello Randal , Pipkorn Patrik , Oppelt Peter , Gay Hiram , Daly Mackenzie , El‐Mofty Samir , Thorstad Wade , Adkins Douglas , Zevallos Jose
Published: May 2019

Objective

To comprehensively examine the prognostic significance of extranodal extension (ENE) in human papillomavirus–positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV‐positive OPSCC).

Methods

Retrospective cohort of cases diagnosed with HPV‐positive OPSCC from 2010 to 2015 in the National Cancer Database. Inclusion of all OPSCC HPV‐positive cases with appropriate International Classification of Diseases‐0‐3 codes that received surgery with a neck dissection. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted. Hazard ratios (HR) for the independent effects of ENE and N stage on overall survival were estimated by Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Cases that were ENE‐negative had the highest 5‐year survival (92.6%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 90.5%–94.7%). ENE‐positive cases had the lowest 5‐year survival (84.0%; 95% CI: 80.7%−87.4%). After adjusting for confounding variables, ENE‐positivity was associated with almost twice the hazard of death (HR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.35–2.67) compared to ENE‐negative cases. Nodal (N) category 1, ENE‐positive status was associated with an increased risk of death (HR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.26–2.80) compared with N1, ENE‐negative status. Compared to N1/ENE‐negative cases, N2/ENE‐positive cases had the poorest survival (HR: 2.93; 95% CI: 1.94–4.43). Both microscopic and macroscopic ENE were associated with worse outcomes compared to node‐positive/ENE‐negative status.

Conclusion

The implementation of the American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition staging system provides a much‐improved framework to develop and discuss treatment plans for HPV‐positive OPSCC. We feel that careful consideration should be given to the importance of ENE in patients with HPV‐positive OPSCC.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 130:939–945, 2020
Initial lignin content as an indicator for predicting leaf litter decomposition and the mixed effects of two perennial gramineous plants in a desert steppe: A 5‐year long‐term study
Authors: Qu Hao , Pan Chengchen , Zhao Xueyong , Lian Jie , Wang Shaokun , Wang Xinyuan , Ma Xujun , Liu Liangxu
Published: May 2019

Leaf is the main component of litter that often exists in mixed forms in nature. However, the mixed effects of leaf litter decomposition in desert ecosystems remain unclear. To reveal the mixed effects and the influence of litter quality on leaf litter decomposition in desert ecosystems, a 5‐year long‐term study was conducted to compare the observed and expected leaf litter mass loss in single‐species and mixed (equal proportions and natural proportions) litters of two typical perennial gramineous plants (Stipa klemenzii and Achnatherum splendens) in a desert steppe in Northern China. The relationship between litter mass loss and litter qualities was also analysed. The results showed that (a) after 5 years of decomposition, the mass losses of mixed litter in natural proportions and S. klemenzii litter were significantly higher than those of mixed litter in equal proportions and A. splendens litter; (b) the mixed effects of two litters in different ratios varied with time, and the synergistic effect only appeared in the second year when an easily decomposed litter (S. klemenzii) was mixed with a slowly decomposing litter (A. splendens); and (c) litter mass loss was not correlated with the initial carbon or nitrogen content but was negatively correlated with the initial lignin content, and the initial lignin content also had a significant effect on litter mixed effects of these two perennial gramineous plant litters. These results can suggest that the initial lignin content is an indicator of predicting decomposition and mixed effects of litter with low nitrogen content.
Interpreting distance‐decay pattern of soil bacteria via quantifying the assembly processes at multiple spatial scales
Authors: Feng Maomao , Tripathi Binu M. , Shi Yu , Adams Jonathan M. , Zhu Yong‐Guan , Chu Haiyan
Published: May 2019

It has been widely accepted that there is a distance‐decay pattern in the soil microbiome. However, few studies have attempted to interpret the microbial distance‐decay pattern from the perspective of quantifying underlying processes. In this study, we examined the processes governing bacterial community assembly at multiple spatial scales in maize fields of Northeast China using Illumina MiSeq sequencing. Results showed that the processes governing spatial turnover in bacterial community composition shifted regularly with spatial scale, with homogenizing dispersal dominating at small spatial scales and variable selection dominating at larger scales, which in turn explained the distance‐decay pattern that closer located sites tended to have higher community similarity. Together, homogenizing dispersal and dispersal limitation resulting from geographic factors governed about 33% of spatial turnover in bacterial community composition. Deterministic selection processes had the strongest influence, at 57%, with biotic factors and abiotic environmental filtering (mainly imposed by soil pH) respectively contributing about 37% and 63% of variation. Our results provided a novel and comprehensive way to explain the distance‐decay pattern of soil microbiome via quantifying the assembly processes at multiple spatial scales, as well as the method to quantify the influence of abiotic, biotic, and geographic factors in shaping microbial community structure, thus enabling understanding of widely acknowledged microbial biogeographic patterns and microbial ecology.
Fully coupled elastoplastic hydro‐mechanical analysis of unsaturated porous media using a meshfree method
Authors: Ghaffaripour Omid , Esgandani Golnaz A. , Khoshghalb Arman , Shahbodaghkhan Babak
Published: May 2019

This paper presents the first application of an advanced meshfree method, ie, the edge‐based smoothed point interpolation method (ESPIM), in simulation of the coupled hydro‐mechanical behaviour of unsaturated porous media. In the proposed technique, the problem domain is spatially discretised using a triangular background mesh, and the polynomial point interpolation method combined with a simple node selection scheme is adopted for creating nodal shape functions. Smoothing domains are formed on top of the background mesh, and a constant smoothed strain, created by applying the smoothing operation over the smoothing domains, is assigned to each smoothing domain. The deformation and flow models are developed based on the equilibrium equation of the mixture, and linear momentum and mass balance equations of the fluid phases, respectively. The effective stress approach is followed to account for the coupling between the flow and deformation models. Further coupling among the phases is captured through a hysteretic soil water retention model that evolves with changes in void ratio. An advanced elastoplastic constitutive model within the context of the bounding surface plasticity theory is employed for predicting the nonlinear behaviour of soil skeleton. Time discretisation is performed by adopting a three‐point discretisation method with growing time steps to avoid temporal instabilities. A modified Newton‐Raphson framework is designed for dealing with nonlinearities of the discretised system of equations. The performance of the numerical model is examined through a number of numerical examples. The state‐of‐the‐art computational scheme developed is useful for simulation of geotechnical engineering problems involving unsaturated soils.
Geophysical Mapping of Shallow Rock Salt at Borabue, Northeast Thailand
Authors: Sarntima Thunyatorn , Arjwech Rungroj , Everett Mark E.
Published: May 2019

In the northeast of Thailand, many swamps and lakes show evidence of rock salt dissolution, with attendant environmental problems due to saline groundwater and soil salinization. The knowledge of the depth and structure of the rock salt would be useful to achieve a better understanding of the impact of its dissolution on the environment and to facilitate effective land management strategies. Geophysical methods can provide key subsurface information. Four seismic refraction profiles and three electrical resistivity tomography profiles were carried out between Nong Bo and Nong Pong reservoirs in the salt‐affected Borabue district of Maha Sarakham province. The seismic results indicate the top of shallow rock salt beneath Nong Bo reservoir as a diagnostic zone of high P‐wave velocity >3400 m/s at depths >20 m. The electrical resistivity tomography investigation shows electrical resistivity values ≳5 Ωm at similar depths, indicative also of shallow rock salt. Zones interpreted to be saline groundwater are electrically conductive, identified by electrical resistivity values ≲5 Ωm in the electrical resistivity tomography images. The combined seismic–electrical resistivity tomography interpretation suggests that shallow rock salt lies beneath the reservoirs and ponds in the Borabue district but does not appear to form a continuous body between the two largest reservoirs.
The finite volume method based on the Crouzeix–Raviart element for a fracture model
Authors: Chen Shuangshuang , Li Xiaoli , Rui Hongxing
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we present and analyze a finite volume method based on the Crouzeix–Raviart element for the coupled fracture model, where the fluid flow is governed by Darcy's law in the one‐dimensional fracture and two‐dimensional surrounding matrix. In the numerical scheme, the pressure in the matrix and fracture is respectively approximated by the Crouzeix–Raviart elements and piecewise constant functions, and then the velocity is calculated by piecewise constant functions element by element. The existence and uniqueness of the numerical solution are discussed, and optimal order error estimates for both the pressure p and the velocity u are proved on general triangulations. We finally carry out numerical experiments, and results confirm our theoretical analysis.
Fabrication of graphene‐silver/polyurethane nanofibrous scaffolds for cardiac tissue engineering
Authors: Nazari Hojjatollah , Azadi Shohreh , Hatamie Shadie , Zomorrod Mahsa Soufi , Ashtari Khadijeh , Soleimani Masoud , Hosseinzadeh Simzar
Published: May 2019

The graphene‐based nanocomposites are considered as great candidates for enhancing electrical and mechanical properties of nonconductive scaffolds in cardiac tissue engineering. In this study, reduced graphene oxide‐silver (rGO‐Ag) nanocomposites (1 and 2 wt%) were synthesized and incorporated into polyurethane (PU) nanofibers via electrospinning technique. Next, the human cardiac progenitor cells (hCPCs) were seed on these scaffolds for in vitro studies. The rGO‐Ag nanocomposites were studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscope (TEM). After incorporation of rGO‐Ag into PU nanofibers, the related characterizations were carried out including scanning electron microscope (SEM), TEM, water contact angle, and mechanical properties. Furthermore, PU and PU/nanocomposites scaffolds were used for in vitro studies, wherein hCPCs showed good cytocompatibility via 3‐(4, 5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and considerable attachment on the scaffold using SEM studies. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunostaining studies confirmed the upregulation of cardiac specific genes including GATA‐4, T‐box 18 (TBX 18), cardiac troponin T (cTnT), and alpha‐myosin heavy chain (α‐MHC) in the PU/rGO‐Ag scaffolds in comparison with neat PU ones. Therefore, these nanofibrous rGO‐Ag–reinforced PU scaffolds can be considered as suitable candidates in cardiac tissue engineering.
Formation of bead‐free and core–shell superfine electrospinning fibers under the assistance of another polymer and an interfacial compatibilizer
Authors: Tang Yin , Feng Lian‐Fang , Gu Xue‐Ping , Zhang Cai‐Liang
Published: May 2019

This work presents a new way of preparing bead‐free and core–shell superfine polymer electrospinning fibers under the assistance of another polymer and an interfacial compatibilizer. For the electrospinning of polystyrene (PS)/CHCl3 solution, the bead‐free fiber cannot be obtained until the PS concentration is above 0.25 g/mL but its average diameter is above 10 μm. Using polyamide 6 (PA6) as an additive, the critical concentration capable of forming bead‐free fiber greatly decreased and core–shell fibers with PA6 as the core and PS as the shell were obtained due to the driving effect of high spinability of PA6. The introduction of a copolymer (PS‐co‐TMI) of styrene (St) and 3‐isopropenyl‐α,α‐dimethylbenzene isocyanate (TMI) can react with amine of PA6 to form the copolymer of PS and PA6 as an interfacial compatibilizer. As a result, it can further enhance the dispersion and deformation of minor component PA6 into uniform microfiber core, and drive PS to uniformly cover the surface of PA6 fibers, and finally form bead‐free and core–shell superfine fibers. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1437–1444 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Predicting and validating a model of suppressor of IKKepsilon through biophysical characterization
Authors: Machek Megan L. , Sonnenschein Halie A. , Graham Sasha‐Kaye I. , Shikwana Flowreen , Kim Seung‐Hwan L. , Garcia DuBar Selena , Minzer Ian D. , Wey Ryan , Bell Jessica K.
Published: May 2019

Suppressor of IKKepsilon (SIKE) is a 207 residue protein that is implicated in the TLR3‐TANK‐binding kinase‐1‐mediated response to viral infection. SIKE's function in this pathway is unknown, but SIKE forms interactions with two distinct cytoskeletal proteins, α‐actinin and tubulin, and SIKE knockout reduces cell migration. As structure informs function and in the absence of solved structural homologs, our studies were directed toward creating a structural model of SIKE through biochemical and biophysical characterization to probe and interrogate SIKE function. Circular dichroism revealed a primarily (73%) helical structure of minimal stability ( =32°C) but reversibly denatured. Limited proteolysis (LP) and chemical modification identified the N‐terminal 2/3 of the protein as dynamic and accessible, whereas size exclusion chromatography (SEC) confirmed three homo‐oligomeric species. SEC coupled to chemical crosslinking characterized the primary species as dimeric, a secondary hexameric species, and a higher order aggregate/polymer. Fluorescence polarization using intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence contextualized the anisotropy value for the SIKE dimer (molecular weight 51.8 kDa) among proteins of known structure, bovine serum albumin (BSA; 66 kDa), and glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH; 332 kDa). Radii of gyration for BSA and GDH provided exclusionary values for SIKE tertiary and dimeric quaternary models that otherwise conformed to secondary structure, LP, and modification data. Dimeric quaternary models were further culled using acrylamide quenching data of SIKE's single tryptophan that showed a single, protected environment. The low cooperativity of folding and regions of dynamic and potentially disordered structure advance the hypothesis that SIKE forms a conformational ensemble of native states that accommodate SIKE's interactions with multiple, distinct protein‐binding partners.