bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the key odorants of crucian carp soup and flavour improvement by modulated temperature mode in electrical stewpot
Authors: Zhang Man , Chen Mengfei , Xing Suhui
Published: September 2021

Fish soup was usually prepared in electrical stewpot instead of traditional purple clay stewpot due to its convenience nowadays; however, fish soup prepared in electrical stewpot at a high temperature for a long time resulted in flavour deterioration. The flavour profile of crucian carp soup prepared in high temperature modes (traditional purple clay stewpot (TS) and commercial ceramic electrical stewpot (CS)) and low temperature modes (electrical stewpot with low temperature modulation modes (TM1‐TM6)) was studied by sensory evaluation, gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and GC‐MS/olfactometry (GC‐MS/O). Results indicated that crucian carp soup prepared in TM2 (heating rate of 2.44°C/min, constant temperature time of 20 min, low temperature of 90°C, low temperature time of 60 min) had favourable sensory characteristic with stronger cooked fish and fatty aroma and lower off‐flavour. Twenty‐six odorants in crucian carp soup were identified by GC‐MS/O. Of these, 8 odour‐active compounds presented odour activity values (OAVs) greater than 1, with several aldehydes and 1‐octen‐3‐ol contributing as important odorants of crucian carp soup. TM2 samples exhibited higher OAVs in these 8 odorants compared with CS and other TM samples. The umami‐taste amino acids in TM2 accounted for a higher proportion compared to TS and CS samples. The correlation analysis between sensory characteristics and odorants through partial least squares regression (PLSR) indicated that octanal, decanal and 1‐octen‐3‐ol were significantly and positively associated with cooked fish note. Heptanal, octanal, decanal and (E,E)‐2,4‐decadienal significantly and positively linked with fatty note. (E,E)‐2,4‐Decadienal showed a significant and negative correlation with fishy odour.
Undifferentiated sarcoma of bone with a round to epithelioid cell phenotype harboring a novel EWSR1‐SSX2 fusion identified by RNA‐based next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Cordier Fleur , Van der Meulen Joni , Van Gaever Bram , Lapeire Lore , Sys Gwen , Van Dorpe Jo , Creytens David
Published: September 2021

Due to the increased application of RNA‐based next‐generation sequencing techniques on bone and soft tissue round cell sarcomas new fusions are frequently found, thereby expanding the molecular landscape of these tumors. In this report, we describe and discuss the finding of an undifferentiated sarcoma of the bone with a round to epithelioid cell phenotype harboring a novel EWSR1‐SSX2 fusion. Treatment of this new bone tumor entity according to the Euro Ewing 2012 protocol led to complete pathologic response.
The viral hepatitis B care cascade: A population‐based comparison of immigrant groups
Authors: Yasseen Abdool S. , Kwong Jeffrey C. , Feld Jordan J. , Kustra Rafal , MacDonald Liane , Greenaway Christina C. , Janjua Naveed Z. , Mazzulli Tony , Sherman Morris , Lapointe‐Shaw Lauren , Sander Beate , Crowcroft Natasha S.
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims

The global burden of viral hepatitis B is substantial, and monitoring infections across the care cascade is important for elimination efforts. There is little information on care disparities by immigration status, and we aimed to quantify disease burden among immigrant subgroups.

Approach and Results

In this population‐based, retrospective cohort study, we used linked laboratory and health administrative records to describe the HBV care cascade in five distinct stages: (1) lifetime prevalence; (2) diagnosis; (3) engagement with care; (4) treatment initiation; and (5) treatment continuation. Infections were identified based on at least one reactive antigen or nucleic acid test, and lifetime prevalence was estimated as the sum of diagnosed and estimated undiagnosed cases. Care cascades were compared between long‐term residents and immigrant groups, including subgroups born in hepatitis B endemic countries. Stratified analyses and multivariable Poisson regression were used to identify drivers for cascade progression. Between January 1997 and December 2014, 2,014,470 persons were included, 50,475 with infections, of whom 30,118 were engaged with care, 11,450 initiated treatment, and 6554 continued treatment >1 year. Lifetime prevalence was estimated as 163,309 (1.34%) overall, 115,722 (3.42%) among all immigrants, and 50,876 (9.37%) among those from highly endemic countries. Compared to long‐term residents, immigrants were more likely to be diagnosed (adjusted rate ratio [aRR], 4.55; 95% CI, 4.46, 4.63), engaged with care (aRR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04, 1.09), and initiate treatment (aRR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.03, 1.16).

Conclusions

In conclusion, immigrants fared well compared to long‐term residents along the care cascade, having higher rates of diagnosis and slightly better measures in subsequent cascade stages, although intensified screening efforts and better strategies to facilitate linkage to care are still needed.
Population screening for liver fibrosis: Toward early diagnosis and intervention for chronic liver diseases
Authors: Ginès Pere , Castera Laurent , Lammert Frank , Graupera Isabel , Serra‐Burriel Miquel , Allen Alina M. , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun , Hartmann Phillipp , Thiele Maja , Caballeria Llorenç , de Knegt Robert J. , Grgurevic Ivica , Augustin Salvador , Tsochatzis Emmanuel A. , Schattenberg Jörn M. , Guha Indra Neil , Martini Andrea , Morillas Rosa M. , Garcia‐Retortillo Montserrat , de Koning Harry J. , Fabrellas Núria , Pich Judit , Ma Ann T. , Diaz M. Alba , Roulot Dominique , Newsome Philip N. , Manns Michael , Kamath Patrick S. , Krag Aleksander ,   for the LiverScreen Consortium Investigators
Published: September 2021

Cirrhosis, highly prevalent worldwide, develops after years of hepatic inflammation triggering progressive fibrosis. Currently, the main etiologies of cirrhosis are non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and alcohol‐related liver disease, although chronic hepatitis B and C infections are still major etiological factors in some areas of the world. Recent studies have shown that liver fibrosis can be assessed with relatively high accuracy noninvasively by serological tests, transient elastography, and radiological methods. These modalities may be utilized for screening for liver fibrosis in at‐risk populations. Thus far, a limited number of population‐based studies using noninvasive tests in different areas of the world indicate that a significant percentage of subjects without known liver disease (around 5% in general populations and a higher rate −18% to 27%‐in populations with risk factors for liver disease) have significant undetected liver fibrosis or established cirrhosis. Larger international studies are required to show the harms and benefits before concluding that screening for liver fibrosis should be applied to populations at risk for chronic liver diseases. Screening for liver fibrosis has the potential for changing the current approach from diagnosing chronic liver diseases late when patients have already developed complications of cirrhosis to diagnosing liver fibrosis in asymptomatic subjects providing the opportunity of preventing disease progression.
Discrete‐event models for the simulation of computed tomography sectors according to hospital structural/organizational changes and expected patient arrival rates
Authors: Santos Rogério Pires , Pereira Wagner Coelho de Albuquerque , Almeida Renan Moritz Varnier Rodrigues
Published: September 2021

Objective

To analyze the types of computed tomography (CT) scanners most suitable for different hospital sizes and ‘scenarios’ (exam rates and structural/organizational changes), using discrete‐event simulation models.

Materials and methods

CT exams were divided into stages, measured during on‐site surveys at CT services in small and average size private hospitals. Ten devices in nine health units, five cities and two states of Brazil were studied to this end, and the following data were collected: Time spent in each stage for each type of exam; average monthly number of exams performed and general characteristics of exams. Three arrival rates were defined (103, 154 and 206 patients/day), representing expected demand for the studied units. From these parameters, six scenarios were simulated, consisting of changes in personnel and hospital structure (e.g., ‘adding a changing room’) in a base scenario (one CT, one changing room, no nursing assistance, arrival rate 1).

Results

It was possible to identify a scenario most useful for very large demands, such as large emergency hospitals in big cities, (a CT, nursing assistance and three changing rooms added to the base scenario). Another identified scenario was more adequate for small demands (adding a changing room to the base scenario).

Conclusion

Administrative/organizational measures are a very important factor in defining productivity in a hospital imaging sector. The focus of these measures should be on detecting bottlenecks and improving processes, regardless of the type of equipment used.
Prevalence of and risk factors for hypertension in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tesfa Endalamaw , Demeke Dessalegn
Published: September 2021

Background

A number of epidemiological studies were performed to know the prevalence of and the risk factors for hypertension. However, these studies reported inconsistent results. As a result, this systematic review and meta‐analysis were planned to generate representative data on the prevalence of and risk factors for hypertension among the Ethiopian adult population.

Methods

Five electronic databases, namely, PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Hinari, and African Journals Online, were searched for studies published in English from 1 January 2010 to 31 August 2020. Joanna Briggs Institute Meta‐Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument and Newcastle‐Ottawa scale were used for data extraction and quality assessment for this review. Stata version 14 statistical software was used for the analysis, and due to high heterogeneity a random effects model was used for meta‐analysis at 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

In this review, 35 observational studies were included. The pooled prevalence of hypertension in Ethiopia was 20.63% (95% CI [18.70, 22.55]) with the I2 value of 96.1%. Older age (≥40 years) (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 3.46 [95% CI: 2.67, 4.49]), urban residence (AOR: 1.47 [95% CI: 1.28, 1.70]), educational status less than grade 12 (AOR: 1.67 [95% CI: 1.38, 2.01]), family history of hypertension (AOR: 4.33 [95% CI: 2.95, 6.34]), diabetes mellitus (DM) (AOR: 5.18 [95% CI: 3.01, 8.88]), body mass index (BMI) ≥25 (AOR: 3.79 [95% CI: 2.61, 5.50]), central obesity (AOR: 1.91 [95% CI: 1.09, 3.36]), and alcohol consumption (AOR: 1.72 [95% CI: 1.26, 2.34]) were the identified risk factors for hypertension.

Conclusion

The pooled prevalence of hypertension is relatively higher as compared to the previous reports in Ethiopia. Older age, urban residence, lower educational coverage, family history of hypertension, DM, BMI ≥25, alcohol consumption, and central obesity were the risk factors for hypertension. The governments and stakeholders should design an appropriate strategy to prevent and control the disease in the Ethiopian population.
PD‐1/PD‐L1 blockade: Prospectives for immunotherapy in cancer and autoimmunity
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Ramin , Feizisani Fahimeh , Shomali Navid , Abdelbasset Walid Kamal , Hemmatzadeh Maryam , Gholizadeh Navashenaq Jamshid , Jadidi‐Niaragh Farhad , Bokov Dmitry O. , Janebifam Morteza , Mohammadi Hamed
Published: September 2021

Immune checkpoint blockade therapy (ICBT) has become a successful cancer treatment approach in the field of cancer immunotherapy. Blockade of programmed death 1 (PD‐1) and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) with monoclonal antibodies have been known as successful examples of cancer immunotherapy in recent years. Although ICBT has been shown to be beneficial in cancers, such benefits have only been seen in a portion of cancer patients. In this regard, enhancing the therapeutic effects of inhibiting PD‐1 and PD‐L1 and reducing the side effects of this approach can be considered as a potential approach in a successful ICBT. In this review, we have highlighted new viewpoints regarding improving the therapeutic effect of PD‐1 and PD‐L1 blockades in cancer therapy. Besides, their expression levels as a biomarker with prognostic value, their role in intestinal microbiota modulation, combination therapy, and immune‐related side effects (irAEs) have been discussed.
Characterizing the reach of comprehensive medication management in a population health primary care model
Authors: Pestka Deborah L. , Brummel Amanda R. , Wong Michelle T. , Rajpurohit Abhijeet , Elert Brent A. , Farley Joel F.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

As care teams adopt team‐based models of care, it is important to examine the reach of interdisciplinary services, such as pharmacists providing comprehensive medication management (CMM). This study examined the reach of pharmacist‐delivered CMM in the first 10 months of a population health‐focused primary care transformation (PCT).

Methods

Using electronic health record data, descriptive statistics (counts and percentages, as well as means and standard deviations) were quantified to summarize the patients who received CMM in two PCT pilot clinics pre‐ and post‐PCT.

Results

Patients who had at least one CMM visit increased from 554 during the pre‐PCT window to 880 during the post‐PCT window. However, when adjusted for the increased pharmacist full‐time equivalents (FTE) included as part of the PCT, 462 and 330 patients/FTE were seen in the pre‐ vs post‐PCT periods, respectively. When calculating the percentage of patients who received CMM, this increased from 2.3% of all primary care patients seen in the two pilot clinics before the PCT began to 4.4% after the PCT was implemented. Most patient demographics remained largely the same between the pre‐ and post‐PCT periods. However, CMM patients seen in the post‐PCT period had more medication therapy problems across all medication therapy problem categories compared with patients in the pre‐PCT period. In addition, patients receiving CMM had significantly more conditions and medications and higher hospitalizations and emergency department use compared with the general clinic population.

Conclusions

Reach is an important implementation outcome to determine the representativeness of individuals participating in a given service. This study illustrates that pharmacists providing CMM see complex patients with a high propensity for medication therapy problems. However, opportunities exist to improve the reach of CMM and, in turn, enhance team‐based care.
Pharmacodynamic Modeling of CDK4/6 Inhibition‐Related Biomarkers and the Characterization of the Relationship Between Biomarker Response and Progression‐Free Survival in Patients With Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Yu Yanke , Sun Wan , Liu Yuan , Wang Diane
Published: September 2021

Identification of a pharmacodynamic (PD) biomarker, which is predictive of the efficacy outcome, is of ultimate interest in drug development. The objectives of the current analyses are to develop the pharmacokinetic (PK)/PD model for biomarkers (thymidine kinase 1 [TK1] in serum and phosphor‐retinoblastoma protein [pRb] and Ki67 in skin tissues) related to cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibition by palbociclib and to explore the relationship of the biomarker response with the efficacy end point (progression‐free survival). The data used for analysis consisted of extensive sampling of palbociclib PK and longitudinal rich sampling for the PD biomarkers TK1, pRb, and Ki67 in 26 patients. A 2‐compartment model was used to describe the PK of palbociclib. A precursor‐dependent indirect response PD model was developed to describe the pRb time course, whereas a similar PD model with an additional transit compartment to model the delayed effect on Ki67 and TK1 response was used to describe the Ki67 and TK1 time course. Palbociclib effect on biomarkers was modeled as a maximum inhibition model. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to assess the relationship of progression‐free survival with the biomarker response. The PK/PD models adequately described the observed PK of palbociclib and the longitudinal change of pRb, Ki67, and TK1. Palbociclib exposure significantly correlated with the reduction of all 3 biomarkers, and the estimated concentration to achieve 50% inhibition of the synthesis rate values were 45.2, 42.4, 50.2 ng/mL, respectively, for pRb, Ki67, and TK1. The exploratory biomarker‐response analyses showed that a longer PFS was associated with lower baseline TK1 and simulated minimum TK1. Such results may warrant further confirmation from future large‐scale study. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT02499146
The fabrication of BaTiO3 supported AuPd nanoparticles for selective oxidation of 1,2‐propanediol to lactic acid
Authors: Shen Lingqin , Xiong Xiong , Gu Yuheng , Jin Aiqian , Shao Shouyan , Wang Chengtao , Yin Hengbo
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

The oxidation of 1,2‐propanediol under alkaline conditions in the presence of a heterogeneous catalyst can be tailored to the formation of lactic acid, an important commodity chemical. In the present study, BaTiO3 supported bimetallic AuPd nanoparticles was fabricated by sol‐immobilized method and investigated by different characterizations. The optimum operating parameters of 1,2‐propanediol catalytic oxidation were explored via the combination of single factor experiment and response surface methodology.

RESULTS

The high lactic acid yield of 81.4% can be obtained under optimum operating conditions (106 °C, 1.1 MPa O2 pressure, and NaOH/1,2‐PDO molar ratio of 3.0). The results of single factor experiment indicated that selectivity to lactic acid decreased with prolonging the reaction time, but increasing the temperature, NaOH concentration and O2 pressure appeared to decrease the lactic acid selectivity after an initial increase. Reaction kinetics indicated that the value of Ea was 39.2 kJ·mol−1 over AuPd/BaTiO3 catalyst. After five runs, the AuPd/BaTiO3 catalyst stills retained high activity.

CONCLUSION

The AuPd/BaTiO3 catalyst exhibited a good catalytic activity for this selective oxidation while the coalescence of Au and Pd nanoparticles can enhance the selectivity to lactic acid. NaOH/1,2‐PDO molar ratio imposed an extremely comparable impact on lactic acid yield. The mutual interactions between reaction temperature and NaOH/1,2‐PDO molar ratio, as well as NaOH/1,2‐PDO molar ratio and pressure, were of vital significance. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
A new modification method of metal substrates via candle soot to prepare effective anodes in air‐cathode microbial fuel cells
Authors: Pu Kai‐Bo , Gao Jia‐Yao , Cai Wen‐Fang , Chen Qing‐Yun , Guo Kun , Huang Ye , Gao Sheng‐Hui , Wang Yun‐Hai
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Choosing applicable anodes can effectively promote the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). This study introduced a novel method to prepare effective metal‐based anodes modified by carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) derived from candle soot. The CNPs can be firmly coated on the metal and the modified metal surfaces show good hydrophilicity.

RESULTS

This study used titanium mesh, stainless steel sheet and copper sheet as the anode's substrate, respectively. CNPs could improve the biocompatibility and electrochemical properties of these metals. The power generation performance of MFCs with CNP‐modified anodes has been dramatically enhanced, and the maximum power density is 616 mW m−2 in MFCs with CNP‐modified titanium mesh anode.

CONCLUSION

After CNP modification, the rough surface and excellent biocompatibility could promote the attachment and growth of microorganisms, which may be the main reasons for the improvement of MFC performance. Besides, this method is suitable to modify different metal substrates. The results showed that the CNP‐coated metal anodes could improve the power output of MFCs compared to pure metal anodes. Therefore, this method has significant advantages in the practical application of MFCs. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The mechanism of the interaction between the formed emulsification and yeast cells in biotransformation system
Authors: Chen Julong , Wen Xuejun , Zhang Shuo
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

The natural gamma‐decalactone (GDL) produced via microbial biotransformation is one of remarkable lactone compound applied in the field of foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Whereas, emulsification generated during the biotransformation brings difficulties to the separation of GDL and reduces the efficiency of industrial production. In order to improve the yield of GDL, the mechanism of the interaction between the formed emulsification and yeast cells was investigated.

RESULTS

The relationships of substrate ricinoleic acid (RA) droplet size, concentration, GDL concentration, and the productivity of yeast were investigated. During the biotransformation, a kind of biosurfactant was identified. The result showed that the structure of biosurfactant was mainly three lipopeptide analogues with cyclic structure. Most RA droplet size fluctuated from 2000 nm to the range of 400–4500 nm when GDL generation rate was higher at 24–36 h. In addition, GDL generation rate could be advanced by 12–24 h with droplet size of RA at about 3000 nm. The local high concentration of GDL solubilized in RA caused a great toxicity on cells after 36 h.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a remarkable theoretical guidance for the industrial biotransformation of GDL. Controlling the droplet size of RA and reducing the concentration of GDL when the emulsification generated are very significant. Finding a better extractant which is more soluble to GDL than RA and developing an In Situ Product Removal (ISPR) of GDL system is essential to improve the GDL productivity. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Circular bioeconomy in the production of fucoxanthin from aquatic biomass: extraction and bioactivities
Authors: Sarmiento‐Padilla Ana L. , Moreira Susana , Oliveira Rocha Hugo Alexandre , Araújo Rafael G. , Govea‐Salas Mayela , Pinales‐Márquez César D. , Ruiz Héctor A. , Rodríguez‐Jasso Rosa M.
Published: September 2021

Fucoxanthin is a high‐added‐value carotenoid compound. It has been extracted from marine sources by various extraction methods in different countries. Fucoxanthin finds application in areas such as the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. However, recent research has shown that fucoxanthin has anticancer, antioxidant, anti‐obesity, antidiabetic, hypoglycemic and neuroprotective activities, which suggest its use as a food supplement. Finally, this review aims to show the latest advances of fucoxanthin from seaweeds in the extraction process, chemical characterization and bioactivities in the development of third‐generation biorefineries and circular bioeconomy. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Increased intracranial blood flow velocity following mechanical thrombectomy in treatment of acute stroke precedes reocclusion
Authors: Lauerer Markus , Wunderlich Silke , Boeckh‐Behrens Tobias , Ikenberg Benno
Published: September 2021

Rising numbers of mechanical thrombectomies in treatment of acute stroke emphasize the need for appropriate follow‐up to identify potential complications in time. Recent findings suggest that abnormal hemodynamics post‐recanalization are associated with worse outcomes. Here, we present the case of a patient who exhibited an increased blood flow velocity on transcranial color‐coded duplex sonography (TCCD) following endovascular intervention shortly before suffering a reocclusion of the recanalized vessel. Our example shows that TCCD may serve as a valuable tool for detecting patients at risk for secondary vascular events after mechanical thrombectomy.
Examining effects of training duration on humans' resurgence and variability using a novel touchscreen procedure
Authors: Ritchey Carolyn M. , Mizutani Yuto , Kuroda Toshikazu , Gilroy Shawn , Podlesnik Christopher A.
Published: September 2021

Resurgence occurs when a previously reinforced and then extinguished target response increases due to reducing/eliminating an alternative source of reinforcement or punishing an alternative response. We evaluated whether duration of reinforcement history for a target response (1) affects the degree to which resurgence is observed in humans and (2) produces different gradients of response generalization around target responding during extinction testing. We arranged a novel touchscreen interface in which university students could swipe a 3D soccer ball to spin any direction. In Phase 1, the first direction swiped became the target and produced points exchangeable for money for 3 or 1 min across 2 groups. The first swipe was recorded but had no programmed consequence in a third group. In Phase 2, swipes 180‐degrees from the target resulted in points for 3 min in all groups. Point deliveries ceased for 2 min to test for resurgence in Phase 3. Target responses resurged during testing to a relatively greater extent with longer Phase‐1 training but gradients of response generalization did not differ among groups. These findings extend prior research on the role of training duration on resurgence. We discuss methodological and conceptual issues surrounding the assessment of response generalization in resurgence.
A high‐yielding protocol for the synthesis of 4,5‐diarylpyrimidin‐2‐amine derivatives from chalcones
Authors: Kooramatom Unni Krishnaraj , Menon Prasanth K. , George Scholly Clair , Thomas Sajesh P. , Devaky K. S.
Published: September 2021

A novel, high yielding and versatile protocol was achieved for the synthesis of 4,5‐diaryl‐2‐pyrimidinamine derivatives from chalcones. The synthesis was accomplished by converting the chalcones into 3‐chloro‐2,3‐diaryl‐2‐propen‐1‐ones followed by subsequent reaction with amidine derivatives.
Effects of B1+ Heterogeneity on Spin Echo‐Based Liver Iron Estimates
Authors: Doyle Eamon K. , Thornton Samuel , Ghugre Nilesh R. , Coates Thomas D. , Nayak Krishna S. , Wood John C.
Published: September 2021

Background

Liver iron concentration (LIC) measured by MRI has become the clinical reference standard for managing iron overload in chronically transfused patients. Transverse relaxivity (R2 or R2*) measurements are converted to LIC units using empirically derived calibration curves.

Hypothesis

That flip angle (FA) error due to B1+ spatial heterogeneity causes significant LIC quantitation error. B1+ scale (b1, [FAactual/FAspecified]) variation is a major problem at 3 T which could reduce the accuracy of transverse relaxivity measurements.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Forty‐seven subjects with chronic transfusional iron overload undergoing clinically indicated LIC assessment.

Field Strength/Sequence

5 T/3 T dual‐repetition time B1+ mapping sequence

Assessment

We quantified the average/standard deviation b1 in the right and left lobes of the liver from B1+ maps acquired at 1.5 T and 3 T. The impact of b1 variation on spin echo LIC estimates was determined using a Monte Carlo model.

Statistical Tests

Mean, median, and standard deviation in whole liver and right and left lobes; two‐sided t‐test between whole‐liver b1 means.

Results

Average b1 within the liver was 99.3% ± 12.3% at 1.5 T versus 69.6% ± 14.6% at 3 T and was independent of iron burden (P < 0.05). Monte Carlo simulations demonstrated that b1 systematically increased R2 estimates at lower LIC (<~25 mg/g at 1.5 T, <~15 mg/g at 3 T) but flattened or even inverted the R2‐LIC relationship at higher LIC (≥~25 mg/g to 1.5 T, ≥~15 mg/g to 3 T); changes in the R2‐LIC relationship were symmetric with respect to over and under excitation and were similar at 1.5 T and 3 T (for the same R2 value). The R2*‐LIC relationship was independent of b1.

Conclusion

Spin echo R2 measurement of LIC at 3 T is error‐prone without correction for b1 errors. The impact of b1 error on current 1.5 T spin echo‐based techniques for LIC quantification is large enough to introduce measurable intersubject variability but the in vivo effect size needs a dedicated validation study.

Level of Evidence

1.

Technical Efficacy Stage

2.
Effect of salinity stress on respiratory metabolism, glycolysis, lipolysis, and apoptosis in Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) during depuration stage
Authors: Chen Lipin , Yu Fanqianhui , Shi Haohao , Wang Qi , Xue Yong , Xue Changhu , Wang Yuming , Li Zhaojie
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Depuration is an important process performed to ensure the safety of oyster consumption, and the effect of salinity stress on physiological and ecological characteristics of oyster remains unknow. In this study, the simulated depuration of Crassostrea gigas was performed with the salinities varying from ±10% to ±20% away from that of production area (26, 28, 32, 35, and 38 g L–1), as well as respiratory metabolism, glycolysis, lipolysis, and apoptosis were analyzed.

RESULTS

(i) The oxygen consumption rate, ammonia discharge rate and enzyme activities related to respiratory metabolism were decreased significantly at salinities of 38 g L–1, indicating that salinity stress triggered the abnormal respiratory metabolism of C. gigas, further, glycolysis was enhanced. (ii) Glycogen decomposition, lactic acid increase, and fatty acid composition modifications were caused by adenosine monophosphate (AMP)‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) ‐mediated during salinity stress. (iii) There was a clear decrease of the condition index and meat yield of C. gigas after 72 h of depuration, especially in salinity 38 g L–1. (iv) Salinity stress would lead to the increase of cytochrome c levels, then cause apoptosis of C. gigas, while heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) would interfere with this process.

CONCLUSION

Salinity stress had a significant effect on the physiological and ecological response of C. gigas during the depuration process, including respiratory metabolism, glycolysis, lipolysis, and apoptosis. In general, the low depuration salinity fluctuation (±10%) is helpful to maintain quality of C. gigas, as well as the optimal depuration time was 48 h. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Current applications of capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry for the analysis of biologically important analytes in urine (2017 to mid‐2021): A review
Authors: Helena Hrušková , Ivona Voráčová , Roman Řemínek , František Foret
Published: September 2021

Capillary electrophoresis coupled online with mass detection is a modern tool for analyzing wide ranges of compounds in complex samples, including urine. Capillary electrophoresis with mass spectrometry allows the separation and identification of various analytes spanning from small ions to high molecular weight protein complexes. Similarly to the much more common liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry techniques, the capillary electrophoresis separation reduces the complexity of the mixture of analytes entering the mass spectrometer resulting in reduced ion suppression and a more straightforward interpretation of the mass spectrometry data. This review summarizes capillary electrophoresis with mass spectrometry studies published between the years 2017 and 2021, aiming at the determination of various compounds excreted in urine. The properties of the urine, including its diagnostical and analytical features and chemical composition, are also discussed including general protocols for the urine sample preparation. The mechanism of the electrophoretic separation and the instrumentation for capillary electrophoresis with mass spectrometry coupling is also included. This review shows the potential of the capillary electrophoresis with mass spectrometry technique for the analyses of different kinds of analytes in a complex biological matrix. The discussed applications are divided into two main groups (capillary electrophoresis with mass spectrometry for the determination of drugs and drugs of abuse in urine and capillary electrophoresis with mass spectrometry for the studies of urinary metabolome).
Diol isomer revealed as a source of methyl ketene from propionic acid unimolecular decomposition
Authors: Rogers Cory O. , Lockwood Katherine S. , Nguyen Quynh L. D. , Labbe Nicole J.
Published: September 2021

Carboxylic acids are important combustion intermediates, especially regarding the combustion of oxygenates such as ethyl esters. The purpose of this study is to discern the unimolecular decomposition pathways of one such carboxylic acid, propionic acid, using microreactor flow experiments with line‐tunable photoionization mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy, along with high‐level electronic structure calculations (CCSD(T)/cc‐pV∞Z//M06‐2X/cc‐pVTZ level of theory) and master equation theory. Microreactor experiments were performed at 300–1500 K, pressures decreasing from roughly 300 Torr to vacuum pressure, and around 100 μs residence times. Primary products are methyl ketene, ketene, ethylene, and methyl radical. Theory suggests the two lowest energy bond fissions are active at these conditions and responsible for the production of ketene, methyl radical, and some ethylene. Importantly, theory revealed the significance of the isomerization of propionic acid to propene‐1,1‐diol, and the subsequent dehydrogenation reaction of the diol as an alternative explanation for the unimolecular formation of methyl ketene. This is predicted to be the dominant thermal decomposition pathway at lower temperatures (up to ∼850 K). Line‐tunable VUV photons allowed for isomer resolution of the products and showed no evidence of the diol of propionic acid surviving until detection, suggesting propene‐1,1‐diol decomposes either to methyl ketene and water rapidly, fragments upon ionization to a distonic ion inseparable from methyl ketene through our detection methods, or never stabilizes as propionic acid well‐skips directly to methyl ketene. Infrared spectroscopy showed no evidence of the decarboxylation of propionic acid at these conditions. Updated rate constants and branching ratios for propionic acid decomposition are calculated and provided for future modeling studies.
Approximate controllability of nonlocal impulsive neutral integro‐differential equations with finite delay
Authors: Jeet Kamal , Pandey Dwijendra Narain
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we apply the resolvent operator theory and an approximating technique to derive the existence and controllability results for nonlocal impulsive neutral integro‐differential equations with finite delay in a Hilbert space. To establish the results, we take the impulsive functions as a continuous function only, and we assume that the nonlocal initial condition is Lipschitz continuous function in the first case and continuous functions only in the second case. The main tools applied in our analysis are semigroup theory, the resolvent operator theory, an approximating technique, and fixed‐point theorems. Finally, we illustrate the main results with the help of two examples.
Quantitative diffusion MRI of the abdomen and pelvis
Authors: Hernando Diego , Zhang Yuxin , Pirasteh Ali
Published: September 2021

Diffusion MRI has enormous potential and utility in the evaluation of various abdominal and pelvic disease processes including cancer and noncancer imaging of the liver, prostate, and other organs. Quantitative diffusion MRI is based on acquisitions with multiple diffusion encodings followed by quantitative mapping of diffusion parameters that are sensitive to tissue microstructure. Compared to qualitative diffusion‐weighted MRI, quantitative diffusion MRI can improve standardization of tissue characterization as needed for disease detection, staging, and treatment monitoring. However, similar to many other quantitative MRI methods, diffusion MRI faces multiple challenges including acquisition artifacts, signal modeling limitations, and biological variability. In abdominal and pelvic diffusion MRI, technical acquisition challenges include physiologic motion (respiratory, peristaltic, and pulsatile), image distortions, and low signal‐to‐noise ratio. If unaddressed, these challenges lead to poor technical performance (bias and precision) and clinical outcomes of quantitative diffusion MRI. Emerging and novel technical developments seek to address these challenges and may enable reliable quantitative diffusion MRI of the abdomen and pelvis. Through systematic validation in phantoms, volunteers, and patients, including multicenter studies to assess reproducibility, these emerging techniques may finally demonstrate the potential of quantitative diffusion MRI for abdominal and pelvic imaging applications.
Systematic review: Nurses' safety attitudes and their impact on patient outcomes in acute‐care hospitals
Authors: Alanazi Faisal Khalaf , Sim Jenny , Lapkin Samuel
Published: September 2021

Aims

The aim of this review was to synthesize the best available evidence on the impact of nurses' safety attitudes on patient outcomes in acute‐care hospitals.

Design

Systematic review with a narrative synthesis of the available data.

Data sources

Data sources included MEDLINE, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection. Studies published up to March 2021 were included.

Review Methods

This review was conducted using guidance from the Joanna Briggs Institute for Systematic Reviews and reported as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses guidelines.

Results

A total of 3,452 studies were identified, and nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Nurses with positive safety attitudes reported fewer patient falls, medication errors, pressure injuries, healthcare‐associated infections, mortality, physical restraints, vascular access device reactions and higher patient satisfaction. Effective teamwork led to a reduction in adverse patient outcomes. Most included studies (N = 6) used variants of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture to assess nurses' safety attitudes. Patient outcomes data were collected from four sources: coded medical records data, incident management systems, nurse perceptions of adverse events and patient perceptions of safety.

Conclusion

A positive safety culture in nursing units and across hospitals resulted in fewer reported adverse patient outcomes. Nurse managers can improve nurses' safety attitudes by promoting a non‐punitive response to error reporting and promoting effective teamwork and good communication.
Preparation and properties of aniline chain‐extended thermoplastic epoxy resin using triphenylphosphine as catalyst
Authors: Cheng Chong , Wang Jun , Yang Shuang , Wang Jingsheng , Chen Xi , Jia Yue , Chen Qiufei , Guo Pengzong , Wang Xiao , Liu Fu
Published: September 2021

Thermoplastic resins have been widely used in fiber reinforced polymer composites because of its recyclability and short cycle times. However, the high viscosity after heating and melting restricts its infiltration on the surface of fiber. In this study, a series of thermoplastic epoxy resins were prepared via the chain extension reaction of epoxy groups with liquid aniline using triphenylphosphine (TPP) as catalyst. The relationship between polymer network structure and performance was comprehensively investigated. The solubility tests indicated that excessive aniline or TPP facilitated the crosslinking of resins. Besides, on the premise of thermoplasticity, appropriate TPP could increase the degree of chain extension, molecular weight, and glass transition temperature of resins. Furthermore, the in‐situ polymerization process facilitated infiltration between epoxy resin and the fibers before chain extension reaction. The bending test showed that the flexural performance of the sample with 2 phr of TPP was improved by 38.8%. Therefore, this work provides a feasible method to prepare the thermoplastic epoxy resins and its fiber‐reinforced composites with good mechanical properties.
Registration of Gaspé Flint 1.1.1, a small‐size early‐flowering maize inbred line
Authors: Salvi S. , Tassinari A. , Li K. , Zamariola L. , Giuliani S. , Tuberosa R.
Published: September 2021

Flowering time is one of the most important traits affecting cultivar adaptation and remains of great interest for breeders. Early flowering genetic stocks have been selected and utilized as models for scientific, breeding, and educational purposes. In this study, Gaspé Flint 1.1.1 (GF111; Reg. no. GS‐11, PI 698804), a new rapid cycle, diminutive maize (Zea mays L.) inbred line, is described. GF111 was developed by repeated selfing (eight cycles) and selection starting from an open‐pollinated accession of the Canadian landrace Gaspé Flint. GF111 can be grown in 1‐L pots and is characterized by short stature (0.4–0.8 m), small number of leaves (8.1–9.7), two ears per plant with only one being fertilized, from zero to one tillers, early flowering (41–50 d after sowing and as little as 357 growing degree units), and very limited protandry. High‐density molecular marker analysis showed a high level of homozygosity (>96%) and an approximately 30‐Mb‐long region shared with the maize reference line B73 on chromosome 10. Because of its high homozygosity, rapid generation cycle, easy hand‐based pollination, good fertility, and limited growing requirements as to space and resources, GF111 has great potential to be used in genetic and gene functional studies, in phenotypic screenings on phenomics platforms, and for teaching activities in plant biology and breeding.
Zinc‐chelating postsynaptic density‐95 N‐terminus impairs its palmitoyl modification
Authors: Zhang Yonghong , Fang Xiaoqian , Ascota Luis , Li Libo , Guerra Lili , Vega Audrey , Salinas Amanda , Gonzalez Andrea , Garza Claudia , Tsin Andrew , Hell Johannes W. , Ames James B.
Published: September 2021

Chemical synaptic transmission represents the most sophisticated dynamic process and is highly regulated with optimized neurotransmitter balance. Imbalanced transmitters can lead to transmission impairments, for example, intracellular zinc accumulation is a hallmark of degenerating neurons. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Postsynaptic density protein‐95 (PSD‐95) is a primary postsynaptic membrane‐associated protein and the major scaffolding component in the excitatory postsynaptic densities, which performs substantial functions in synaptic development and maturation. Its membrane association induced by palmitoylation contributes largely to its regulatory functions at postsynaptic sites. Unlike other structural domains in PSD‐95, the N‐terminal region (PSD‐95NT) is flexible and interacts with various targets, which modulates its palmitoylation of two cysteines (C3/C5) and glutamate receptor distributions in postsynaptic densities. PSD‐95NT contains a putative zinc‐binding motif (C2H2) with undiscovered functions. This study is the first effort to investigate the interaction between Zn2+ and PSD‐95NT. The NMR titration of 15N‐labeled PSD‐95NT by ZnCl2 was performed and demonstrated Zn2+ binds to PSD‐95NT with a binding affinity (Kd) in the micromolar range. The zinc binding was confirmed by fluorescence and mutagenesis assays, indicating two cysteines and two histidines (H24, H28) are critical residues for the binding. These results suggested the concentration‐dependent zinc binding is likely to influence PSD‐95 palmitoylation since the binding site overlaps the palmitoylation sites, which was verified by the mimic PSD‐95 palmitoyl modification and intact cell palmitoylation assays. This study reveals zinc as a novel modulator for PSD‐95 postsynaptic membrane association by chelating its N‐terminal region, indicative of its importance in postsynaptic signaling.
Three years of surveillance associates agro‐environmental factors with wireworm infestations in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Drahun Ivan , Wiebe Kiana F , Gohl Patrick , Koloski Cody W , Koiter Alex J , van Herk Willem G , Cassone Bryan J
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Wireworms, the soil‐dwelling larvae of click beetles, are a major threat to global agricultural production. This is largely due to their generalist polyphagous feeding capabilities, extended and cryptic life cycles, and limited management options available. Although wireworms are well‐documented as economically important pests in the Canadian Prairies, including Manitoba, there are gaps in knowledge on species distributions, subterranean behaviour and life cycles, feeding ecology and damage capacity, and economic thresholds for crop yield loss.

Results

We carried out 3 years (2018–2020) of intensive surveillance of larval populations across Manitoba. A total of 31 fields (24 in ≥ 2 consecutive years) were surveyed in early spring using standardized bait trapping approaches. Wireworms were present in 94% of surveyed sites, but the catch within fields varied year to year. While Hypnoidus bicolor predominated (94% of larvae), several other pest species were identified. We then explored the relationships between wireworm trap numbers and agro‐environmental factors. The larval catch tended to decrease under conditions of low soil temperatures and increased clay content, coupled with high soil moisture and precipitation during the trapping period. Treatment and cultural methods appeared less influential; however, wheat production in either of the previous two growing seasons was associated with increased wireworm catch. Our models failed to predict a relationship between wireworm catch and crop yields, although infestations were rare in our region.

Conclusion

Our findings better infer the risks posed by wireworms to crop production in the Canadian Prairies, and the agro‐environmental factors that represent the greatest contributors to these risks. This information should be incorporated into future integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for wireworms. © 2021 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada Pest Management Science © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada.
Pheromone antagonism in Plu tella xylostella (Linnaeus) by sex pheromones of two sympatric noctuid moths
Authors: Wang Fu‐Min , Shen Zhi‐Jie , Schal Coby , Zhu Junwei J , Zhou Guo‐Xin , Wang Yu‐Lei , Wang Ji‐Rui , Deng Jian‐Yu , Wan Nian‐Feng
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Responses to sex pheromones are commonly antagonized by pheromone components of closely related species. Pheromone antagonism has not been widely explored for phylogenetically distant species that have completely different pheromone components. Yet, pheromone components of sympatrically occurring species may also interfere with each other even if these species are distantly related. Here, the effects of heterospecific pheromones on electrophysiology (electroantennogram, EAG) and behavioral responses were tested on the diamondback moth Plutella xyloslella (Plutellidae) and two sympatric noctuid moth species, Spodoptera litura and Spodoptera exigua, whose larvae also feed on Brassica crops.

RESULTS

The sex pheromone blend of P. xyloslella, and its components, did not elicit EAG responses in males of the two noctuid species, while sex pheromone components of the noctuid moths elicited significant EAG responses in P. xyloslella males. In wind tunnel bioassays, both (Z, E)‐9, 12‐tetradecadienyl acetate (ZE‐9,12‐14:OAc) and (Z, E)‐9, 11‐tetradecadienyl acetate (ZE‐9,11‐14:OAc), sex pheromone components from the noctuid moths, inhibited the upwind flight behavior of P. xyloslella males toward an intraspecific pheromone odor source. In Brassica fields, sex pheromone lures of P. xyloslella did not influence trap catches of the noctuid moths, while P. xyloslella pheromone lures baited with either ZE‐9,11‐14:OAc or ZE‐9,12‐14:OAc decreased trap catches of P. xyloslella males in a dose‐dependent manner. Trap catches of P. xylostella males were also affected by the proximity of ZE‐9,11‐14:OAc or ZE‐9,12‐14:OAc to P. xylostella lures.

CONCLUSION

The uni‐directional pheromone antagonism by ZE‐9,11‐14:OAc and ZE‐9,12‐14:OAc suggests innovative semiochemical‐based strategies for the management of P. xyloslella and other economically important pests in Brassica fields. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.