bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cinacalcet Improves Bone Parameters Through Regulation of Osteoclast Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, Autophagy, and Apoptotic Pathways in Chronic Kidney Disease–Mineral and Bone Disorder
Authors: Chiu Hui-Wen , Hou Yi-Chou , Lu Chien-Lin , Lu Kuo-Cheng , Liu Wen-Chih , Shyu Jia-Fwu , Chang Jia-Feng , Zheng Cai-Mei
Published: October 2021

The possible mechanisms underlying the quantitative and qualitative effects of cinacalcet on bone were explored in a chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) mouse model in relation to the influence of the interactions among the osteoclast (OC) endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, autophagy and apoptosis pathways on OC differentiation. Body weight and biochemical parameters improved significantly in the CKD + cinacalcet groups compared to the CKD group. Micro–computed tomography (μCT) revealed both cortical and trabecular parameters deteriorated significantly in the CKD group and were reversed by cinacalcet in a dose-dependent manner. Nanoindentation analysis of bone quality proved that both cortical hardness and elastic modulus improved significantly with high dose cinacalcet treatment. In vitro studies revealed that cinacalcet inhibited receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)/receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK)–induced OC differentiation in a concentration-dependent manner through a close interaction between activation of caspase-related apoptosis, reversal of OC autophagy through the protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathways, and attenuation of the OC ER stress/CREBH/NFATc1 signaling pathway. Cinacalcet improves both bone quantity and bone quality in CKD mouse model and inhibits OC differentiation through regulation of the interactions among the apoptosis, ER stress, and autophagy pathways within OCs. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Evaluation of l‐2,4‐diaminobutyric acid‐based ultrashort cationic lipopeptides as potential antimicrobial and anticancer agents
Authors: de Boda Ramoncito Luis B. , Caluag Carl Angelo M. , Dante Rachelle Anne S. , Petate Art Gersun J. , Candaza Hermie Patrice T. , Rivera Windell L. , Jacinto Sonia D. , Sabido Portia Mahal G.
Published: October 2021

Ultrashort cationic lipopeptides (USCLs) are amphiphiles that exhibit antimicrobial and anticancer activity. They are composed of an aliphatic chain attached to a positively charged peptide group consisting of a few amino acid residues. Here, we report the activity of a series of l‐2,4‐diaminobutyric acid (Dab)‐rich USCLs with varying N‐acyl chain length and charge against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, colon, breast, and lung epithelial cancer cell lines. USCLs with chain lengths of 14–18 carbons showed significant antimicrobial activity with C16‐conjugated peptides being the most active against E. coli and S. aureus, and C18‐conjugated peptides being the most active against C. albicans. Doubly charged USCLs with aliphatic tails that are 14 carbon atoms and longer showed more potent anticancer activity compared to their triply charged counterparts. C14‐Dab2‐NH2 displayed little toxicity to normal cells, and selectivity to microbial and cancer cells over normal cells. Its structural simplicity, bioactivity, nontoxicity, and selectivity make it a promising therapeutic agent.
Effect of applied potential on the performance of an electroactive methanogenic biocathode used for bioelectrochemical CO2 reduction to CH4
Authors: Vasiliadou Ioanna A , Kalogiannis Achilleas , Spyridonidis Apostolos , Katsaounis Alexandros , Stamatelatou Katerina
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Biogas can be upgraded to biomethane, which can be used as vehicle fuel and natural gas substitute. Bioelectrochemical biogas upgrade is an innovative alternative to energy‐consuming physicochemical processes and bio‐upgrade methods which require H2 supply. Bioelectrochemical biogas upgrade is conducted by methanogenic microorganisms that convert CO2 into CH4, in the biocathode of a bioelectrochemical system (BES), using electric current as energy source. The aim of the present work was to study the efficiency of an H‐type BES in the conversion of CO2 into CH4, by applying different potentials at the electromethanogenic biocathode.

RESULTS

The H‐type BES was operated in a three‐electrode configuration (working: graphite rod; counter: Pt/Ti; reference: Ag/AgCl) with a potentiostat, which set the biocathode's potential initially at −0.7 V versus a standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) and monitored the current demand. Based on cyclic voltammetry runs, a highly electroactive methanogenic biocathode was developed in a short time. The methane production rate (MPR) at a cathode potential of −0.7 V versus SHE was 31.1 mmol m−2 d−1, with an electron capture efficiency of 77.6%. The efficiency of the BES was reduced by applying a potential of −0.5 V versus SHE at the biocathode, resulting in negligible CH4 production. The BES achieved its maximum performance at a potential of −0.9 V versus SHE with a MPR of 53.8 mmol m−2 d−1 and an electron capture efficiency of 86%. The CO2 consumption rate achieved was 0.8 mmol d−1.

CONCLUSIONS

The H‐type BES achieved an effective biolectrochemically driven methane production, while the biocathode electroactive behavior was evaluated during the whole operation of the system. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Bioresource potential of Tetradesmus obliquusUJEA_AD: critical evaluation of biosequestration rate, biochemical and fatty acid composition in BG11 media
Authors: Ahiahonu Elvis K , Anku William W , Roopnarain Ashira , Green Ezekiel , Govender Penny P , Serepa‐Dlamini Mahloro H
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Microalgae biomass is regarded as one of the most promising renewable biomass energy resources with the potential as a sustainable biological climate change mitigation agent, raw material for commercially valuable products and fossil fuel replacement. In view of that, this study isolated, identified and evaluated the potential of an indigenous freshwater green microalga strain, Tetradesmus obliquus UJEA_AD, collected from Emmarentia Dam, Johannesburg, South Africa.

RESULTS

Morphological analysis and sequencing of the rbcL biomarker aided in identification of the isolate as T. obliquus. Tetradesmus   obliquus UJEA_AD was further batch‐cultivated autotrophically in BG11 medium and examined for biomass accumulation, CO2 biofixation rate, biochemical composition and fatty acid production. The results showed a maximum biomass accumulation of 2.78 ± 0.019 g L−1 with biomass productivity of 0.153 ± 0.001 g L−1 day−1 and specific growth rate of 0.13 ± 0.004 day–1 as well as CO2 biofixation rate of 0.265 ± 0.002 gCO2 L−1 day−1. The biochemical data of the isolate revealed 27.17% ± 0.021% carbohydrate, 38.00% ± 0.15% protein and 31.2% ± 0.80% lipids; with primary fatty acids such as palmitic acid (34.26% ± 2.02%), linolenic acid (18.08 ± 5.29), trans‐13‐octadecenoic acid (12.32 ± 0.92) and phytol, 2‐methylbutanoate (12.31 ± 1.02).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that T. obliquus UJEA_AD is capable of producing bioproducts of economic value with an excellent CO2 bio‐mitigation potential when cultivated at optimum conditions in an autotrophic mode. Moreover, lipid extracted from T. obliquus UJEA_AD met the biodiesel quality standards of the USA and EU, making the isolate a promising commercial biodiesel feedstock. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Computerized morphometry analysis of epithelial fimbriae nuclear symmetry in BRCA carriers may identify patients at risk for developing ovarian cancer
Authors: Amit Amnon , Sabo Edmond , Petruseva Anna , Stroller Leah , Reiss Ari , Klorin Geula
Published: October 2021

Serous ovarian tumors may originate in epithelial cells of the fallopian tubes. Computerized morphometry was able to find significant alterations in the fallopian tube epithelium of healthy BRCA carriers. The purpose of this study was to identify a subgroup of BRCA carriers that may be at risk of developing serous ovarian cancer by evaluation of the epithelial nuclear symmetry in the fallopian tubes. Four groups of patients were analyzed; healthy patients, ovarian cancer patients, BRCA carriers, and BRCA noncarriers. All fallopian tubes appeared normal by H&E examination. The ImageProPlus software was used to assess the nuclear symmetry of 65 fimbriae epithelium cells and an artificial neural network algorithm aided in detecting a subpopulation among fimbriae of healthy BRCA carriers at risk for ovarian cancer. Significant differences were found between healthy patients and ovarian cancer patients, and between BRCA carriers and noncarriers. The algorithm was able to accurately predict BRCA carriers with associated ovarian cancer based on fallopian tube nuclear symmetry characteristics. These results reinforce the hypothesis that fimbriae epithelial cells of BRCA carriers may undergo early‐stage changes that could predict the risk of progression toward malignancy.
A retrospective study of eating and psychosocial problems in patients with hepatic glycogen storage diseases and idiopathic ketotic hypoglycemia: Towards a standard set of patient‐reported outcome measures
Authors: Venema Annieke , Peeks Fabian , de Bruijn‐van der Veen Marlies , de Boer Foekje , Fokkert‐Wilts Marieke J. , Lubout Charlotte M. A. , Huskens Bibi , Dumont Eric , Mulkens Sandra , Derks Terry G. J.
Published: October 2021

There is a paucity in literature on eating and psychosocial problems in patients with hepatic glycogen storage disease (GSD) and idiopathic ketotic hypoglycemia (IKH), problems that can greatly affect quality of life. This is a monocentre, retrospective, observational mixed method study of patients with hepatic GSD or IKH treated at the Beatrix Children's Hospital Groningen, who had been referred to SeysCentra, a specialist centre for the treatment of eating problems. Additionally, a systematic literature review has been performed to identify instruments to quantify patient‐reported outcome measures of psychosocial problems in hepatic GSD patients. Sixteen patients from 12 families were included with ages ranging between 3 and 24 years. Five out of sixteen patients were diagnosed with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder and six patients showed characteristics of this disorder. Fourteen patients experienced sleeping problems, and 11 out of 12 parent couples experienced stress about the illness of their child. We subsequently identified 26 instruments to quantify patient‐reported outcome measures for GSD patients. This study demonstrates that GSD patients can develop Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder influencing quality of life at multiple domains. The identification of instruments to assess psychosocial wellbeing is an important step towards a standard set of patient‐reported outcome measures.
Transplacental transfer of RSV antibody in Australian First Nations infants
Authors: Homaira Nusrat , Binks Michael , Walker Gregory , Larter Natasha , Clark Katrina , Campbell Megan , McHugh Lisa , Briggs Nancy , Nyiro Joyce , Stelzer‐Braid Sacha , Hu Nan , Macartney Kristine , Snelling Tom , Omer Saad B. , Rawlinson William , Andrews Ross , Jaffe Adam
Published: October 2021

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of acute lower respiratory infection hospitalisations in Aboriginal infants specifically those aged <6 months. Maternally derived RSV antibody (Ab) can protect against severe RSV disease in infancy. However, the efficiency of transplacental transfer of maternal anti‐RSV Ab remains unknown in Aboriginal infants. We characterised RSV Ab in Australian First Nations mother‐infant pairs (n = 78). We investigated impact of covariates including low birthweight, gestational age (GA), sex of the baby, maternal age and multiparity of the mother on cord to maternal anti‐RSV Ab titre ratio (CMTR) using multivariable logistic regression model. All (n = 78) but one infant was born full term (median GA: 39 weeks, interquartile range: 38–40 weeks) and 56% were males. The mean log2 RSV Ab titre was 10.7 (SD± 1.3) in maternal serum and 11.0 (SD ± 1.3) in cord serum at birth; a ratio of 1.02 (SD ± 0.06). One‐third of the pairs had a CMTR of <1 indicating impaired transfer. Almost 9% (7/78) of the term infants had cord RSV Ab levels below <log2 9. Covariates showed no effect on CMTR. Further mechanistic research is needed to determine the significance of these findings on RSV disease in First Nations children.
Outcomes of Covid 19 patients—Are Hispanics at greater risk?
Authors: Nanchal Rahul , Patel Dhaval , Guddati Achuta Kumar , Sakhuja Ankit , Meersman Mark , Dalton Drew , Kumar Gagan
Published: October 2021

Disparities in outcomes exist in outcomes of coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19). Little is known about other ethnic minorities in United States. We included all COVID‐19 positive adult patients (≥18 years) hospitalized between March 1, 2020 and February 5th 2021. We compared in hospital mortality, use of intensive care unit services and inflammatory markers between non‐Hispanic whites with non‐White/Black Hispanic. Multivariable Cox proportional Hazard models were used to adjust for differences between the two groups. There were 4059 hospital admissions with COVID‐19 in the study period. Of the 3288 White, 789 (24%) required intensive care unit (ICU) admission in comparison to 187 (24.3%) of the 770 Hispanics. Unadjusted mortality was higher in Whites than Hispanics (17.1% vs. 10.7%; p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding variables, in‐hospital mortality was not statistically different for Whites in comparison to Hispanics (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76–1.21, p = 0.73). The adjusted rates of ICU transfers were significantly higher in Hispanics (HR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.11–1.61, p = 0.002). Hispanics had significantly higher C‐reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, and fibrinogen when compared to Whites. Hispanics as compared to Whites with COVID‐19 require higher rates of ICU admission but have a similar mortality. Hispanics as compared to Whites with COVID‐19 require higher rates of ICU admission but have a similar mortality.
Childfreedom and Responsibility: An Existential‐Feminist Framework for Counselors
Authors: Patel Dhruvi N.
Published: October 2021

The choice of childlessness is a socially constructed process that evolves across a lifetime. Grounded in a literature review, this article proposes an existential‐feminist conceptual framework for counselors working with intentionally childless women. Tenets of existential therapy and feminist therapy are reviewed and applied to experiences of intentionally childless women.
Thiocyanate increases the nitrous oxide formation process through modifying the soil bacterial community
Authors: Gao Jian , Li Meng M , Zhao Guangyong
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent greenhouse gas depleting the stratospheric ozone. Previous studies reported that the thiocyanate (TC) excretion in the urine of cattle fed rapeseed meals containing glucosinolates was positively correlated with the N2O‐nitrogen (N) emissions. The objectives of the experiment were to verify the effects and the mechanism of TC on the N2O‐N emissions from the soil applied with artificial urine using static incubation technique. Four levels of TC, that is 0.00, 0.26, 0.78 and 2.33 mmol L−1 were composited in artificial urine as experimental treatments. Soil inorganic N and bacterial community were analyzed to elucidate the effects of TC on the N2O‐N emissions of artificial urine.

RESULTS

Adding TC increased the N2O‐N fluxes, the N2O‐N to N application ratio, and the estimated N2O‐N emissions from the soil applied with artificial urine both linearly and quadratically. The estimated N2O‐N emission (Y, in μmol) was increased with the TC adding level (X, in μmol) in a quadratic manner: (R 2 = 0.70). Adding TC did not affect the soil bacterial diversity and richness, but increased the relative abundances of Nitrosomonas (both for nitrification and denitrification) and Hyphomicrobium, Lysobacter and Terrimonas (for denitrification), and tended to increase the relative abundances of denitrification and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium.

CONCLUSION

TC increased the N2O‐N emissions of the soil applied with artificial urine possibly through enhancing the denitrification of nitrifiers in the soil. Field experiments are necessary to verify the laboratory results. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Conservation tillage improves the yield of summer maize by regulating soil water, photosynthesis and inferior kernel grain filling on the semiarid Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Wang Zhen , Sun Jun , Du Yadan , Niu Wenquan
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Poor inferior kernel grain filling is a challenge that limits summer maize yield. The effect and mechanism of conservation tillage on improving grain filling of inferior kernel in semi‐arid rained areas remain uncertain and there has been little research on tillage management integrated with straw mulching to improve soil water content and photosynthesis in the Loess Plateau region. A 2 year (2019–2020) field experiment was established to study the impact of tillage practices on soil water content and summer maize root system morphology, photosynthetic capacity, inferior kernel grain filling, and grain yield. Treatments included reduced tillage (RT), no tillage (NT), and conventional tillage (CT).

RESULTS

Under RT and NT, the final 100‐kernel weight and maximum and mean grain filling rates were higher than CT. Reduced tillage and NT increased soil water content at the jointing stage, silking stage and grain filling stage in comparison with CT. They increased root system morphology and dry matter accumulation, net photosynthetic rate, transpiration efficiency, and stomatal conductance in comparison with CT, and they also decreased intercellular CO2 concentration, and they increased chlorophyll content and above‐ground dry matter accumulation in comparison with CT. Reduced tillage and NT increased evapotranspiration of maize, and ultimately, increased grain yield by 17% and 14%, respectively, in comparison with CT.

CONCLUSION

Conservation tillage could promote summer maize photosynthetic capacity and grain filling of inferior kernels by regulating soil water content and root system morphology. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Phenolic profiles, antioxidant activity and inhibition of digestive enzymes of water caltrop pericarps
Authors: Lü Han , Zuo Yuanyuan , Meng Xiuhua , Ding Xiaoqin , Jian Tunyu , Liu Yan , Ren Bingru , Chen Jian , Li Weilin
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Water caltrop (Trapa natans L.) is widely cultivated as a popular vegetable or fruit in Asian countries. In China, water caltrop pericarp is also used as a functional food to treat metabolic syndrome. However, the profiling of bioactive substances and their pharmacological activities in different water caltrop varieties remains to be investigated. In the present study, three varieties of water caltrop pericarps collected from 13 origins in China were analyzed for their phenolic substances. To investigate the pharmacological activities, samples were tested for their free radical scavenging capacity and inhibitory potency against α‐glucosidase and pancreatic lipase.

RESULTS

In total, 46 phenolic compounds were identified in the ethanol extract of water caltrop pericarp using a liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time of flight‐tandem mass spectrometry method, most of which were hydrolyzable tannins. Two cultivated varieties samples exhibited a relatively higher phenolic content and stronger antioxidant and inhibitory activities against α‐glucosidase and pancreatic lipase compared to those from the wild variety. Correlation analysis between phenolic contents and biological activities suggested that phenolic compounds exhibited potential free radical scavenging capacity, α‐glucosidase and pancreatic lipase inhibitory activities.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that the phenolic compounds of water caltrop pericarp are promising sources of natural antioxidants, α‐glucosidase and pancreatic lipase inhibitors. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ring‐Expansion Polymerization of ε‐Caprolactone, Glycolide, and l‐lactide with a Spirocyclic Tin(IV) Catalyst Derived from or 2,2′‐Dihydroxy‐1,1′‐Binaphthyl – New Results and a Revision
Authors: Kricheldorf Hans R. , Weidner Steffen M. , Scheliga Felix
Published: October 2021

In contrast to other cyclic tin bisphenoxides, polymerizations of glycolide and l‐lactide with the spirocyclic tin(IV) bis‐1,1′‐bisnapthoxide yield linear chains having a 1,1′‐bisnapthol end group and no cycles. In the case of l‐lactide, LA/Cat ratio and temperature are varied and at 160 °C or below, all polylactides mainly consist of even‐numbered chains. A total predominance of even‐numbered chains is also found for homopolymerization of glycolide, or the copolymerization of glycolide and l‐lactide, when conducted <120 °C. Linear chains having a bisnaphthol end group are again the main reaction products of ring‐expansion polymerizations (REP) of ε‐caprolactone, but above 150 °C cycles are also formed.
Chromatic Pupillometry in Isolated Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder
Authors: La Morgia Chiara , Romagnoli Martina , Pizza Fabio , Biscarini Francesco , Filardi Marco , Donadio Vincenzo , Carbonelli Michele , Amore Giulia , Park Jason C. , Tinazzi Michele , Carelli Valerio , Liguori Rocco , Plazzi Giuseppe , Antelmi Elena
Published: October 2021

Background

Melanopsin retinal ganglion cell (mRGC)‐mediated pupillary light reflex (PLR) abnormalities have been documented in several neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's disease. Overall, isolated rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) represents the strongest prodromal risk factor for impending α‐synucleinopathies.

Objectives

To quantitatively compare PLR and mRGC‐mediated contribution to PLR in 16 iRBD patients and 16 healthy controls.

Methods

iRBD and controls underwent extensive neuro‐ophthalmological evaluation and chromatic pupillometry. In iRBD, PLR metrics were correlated with clinical variables and with additional biomarkers including REM atonia index (RAI), DaTscan, and presence of phosphorylated‐α‐synuclein (p‐α‐syn) deposition in skin biopsy.

Results

We documented higher baseline pupil diameter and decreased rod‐transient PLR amplitude in iRBD patients compared to controls. PLR rod‐contribution correlated with RAI. Moreover, only iRBD patients with evidence of p‐α‐syn deposition at skin biopsy showed reduced PLR amplitude compared to controls.

Conclusion

The observed PLR abnormalities in iRBD might be considered as potential biomarkers for the risk stratification of phenoconversion of the disease. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Solitary waves described by a high‐order system in optical fiber Bragg gratings with arbitrary refractive index
Authors: Kan Kristina V. , Kudryashov Nikolay A.
Published: October 2021

A system of the fourth‐order nonlinear differential equations for description of wave propagation in optical fiber Bragg gratings is considered. This system of equations also takes into account arbitrary refractive index. The model includes non‐local nonlinearity too. The studied system of equations is transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations using traveling wave variables. Compatibility conditions for the obtained system are defined and analyzed. Exact solutions of the model in the form of solitary waves are found.
A Global Random Walk on Spheres algorithm for calculating the solution and its derivatives of the drift‐diffusion‐reaction equations
Authors: Sabelfeld Karl , Kireeva Anastasya
Published: October 2021

A Global Random Walk on Spheres (GRWS) algorithm for calculating the solution and its derivatives of drift‐diffusion‐reaction equations in any desired set of points is suggested. The GRWS algorithm is able to find the solution and derivative fields in any family of points simultaneously, using only one ensemble of random walks which drastically decreases the computer time compared to the standard random walk‐based methods. The method in its nature is stochastic and meshless; the cost is of the order
independent of the space dimension and complexity of the boundary shape, where ε is the desired accuracy. The variance, accuracy, and the cost of the method suggested are given. For illustration, we present simulation results for exciton drift‐diffusion‐recombination transport in a 3D prism and compare them with the exact solution. Calculations are also given for derivatives of a 2D diffusion problem which show the same accuracy as for the solution itself; the simulations are compared against the exact results.
Dietary Piperine is Transferred into the Milk of Nursing Mothers
Authors: N´Diaye Katharina , Debong Marcel , Behr Jürgen , Dirndorfer Sebastian , Duggan Tara , Beusch Anja , Schlagbauer Verena , Dawid Corinna , Loos Helene M. , Buettner Andrea , Lang Roman , Hofmann Thomas
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The diet of breastfeeding mothers could bring nurslings into contact with flavor compounds putatively contributing to early sensory programming of the infant. The study investigates whether tastants from a customary curry dish consumed by mothers are detectable in their milk afterwards and can be perceived by the infant.

Methods and Results

Sensory evaluation identifies pungency as the dominating taste impression of the curry dish. Its ingredients of chili, pepper, and ginger suggest the flavor compounds capsaicin, piperine, and 6‐gingerol as analytical targets. Breastfeeding mothers are recruited for an intervention trial involving the consumption of the curry dish and subsequent collection of milk samples for flavor compound analysis. Targeted and untargeted mass spectrometric (MS)‐ investigations identify exclusively piperine as an intervention‐derived compound in human milk. However, concentrations are below the human taste threshold.

Conclusion

Piperine from pepper‐containing foods transfers into the mother's milk within 1 h and is delivered to the nursling. Concentrations of 50 and 200 nM of piperine are 70–350 times below the human taste threshold, but TRPV1 (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid‐1 ion channel) desensitization through frequent exposure to sub‐taste‐threshold concentrations could contribute to an increased tolerance at a later age.
Differentiation among dairy products by combination of fast field cycling NMR relaxometry data and chemometrics
Authors: Piacenza Elena , Chillura Martino Delia Francesca , Cinquanta Luciano , Conte Pellegrino , Lo Meo Paolo
Published: October 2021

A set of commercial milk and Sicilian cheeses was analysed by a combination of fast field cycling (FFC) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry and chemometrics. The NMR dispersion (NMRD) curves were successfully analysed with a mathematical model applied on Parmigiano–Reggiano (PR) cheese. Regression parameters were led back to the molecular components of cheeses (water trapped in casein micelles, proteins and fats) and milk samples (water belonging to hydration shells around dispersed colloidal particles of different sizes and bulk water). The application of chemometric analysis on relaxometric data enabled differentiating milk from cheeses and revealing differences within the two sample groups of either cheeses or milk samples. Marked differences among cheeses were evidenced by statistical analysis of the sole quadrupolar peaks parameters, suggesting that these contain information on the nature of the milk used during cheese production. Hence, combination of FFC NMR and chemometrics represents a powerful tool to investigate alterations in dairy products.
Patch‐smoother and multigrid for the dual formulation for linear elasticity
Authors: Rovi Gabriele , Krause Rolf
Published: October 2021

The dual formulation for linear elasticity, in contrast to the primal formulation, is not affected by locking, as it is based on the stresses as main unknowns. Thus it is quite attractive for nearly incompressible and incompressible materials. Discretization with mixed finite elements will lead to—possibly large—linear saddle point systems. Whereas efficient multigrid methods exist for solving problems in mixed plane elasticity for nearly incompressible materials, we propose a multigrid method that is also stable in the incompressible limit. There are two main challenges in constructing a multigrid method for the dual formulation for linear elasticity. First, in the incompressible limit, the matrix block related to the stress is positive semidefinite. Second, the stress belongs to and standard smoothers, working for regular problems, cannot be applied. We present a novel patch‐based smoother for the dual formulation for linear elasticity. We discuss different types of local boundary conditions for the patch subproblems. Based on our patch‐smoother, we build a multigrid method for the solution of the resulting saddle point problem and investigate its efficiency and robustness. Numerical experiments show that Dirichlet and Robin conditions work best and eventually lead to textbook multigrid performance.
Unsymmetric extensions of Wilson's incompatible four‐node quadrilateral and eight‐node hexahedral elements
Authors: Huang Ying‐Qing , Yang Yuan‐Fan , Wang Ji‐Zhen , Liu Xiao‐Chuan , Chen Hai‐Bo
Published: October 2021

The unsymmetric finite element is based on the virtual work principle with different sets of test and trial functions. In this article, the incompatible four‐node quadrilateral element and eight‐node hexahedral element originated by Wilson et al. are extended to their unsymmetric forms. The isoparametric shape functions together with Wilson's incompatible functions are chosen as the test functions, while internal nodes at the middle of element sides/edges are added to generate the trial functions with quadratic completeness in the Cartesian coordinate system. A local area/volume coordinate frame is established so that the trial shape functions can be explicitly obtained. The key idea which avoids the matrix inversion is that the trial nodal shape functions are constructed by standard quadratic triangular/tetrahedral elements and then transformed in consistent with the quadrilateral/hexahedral elements. Numerical examples show that the present elements keep the merits of both incompatible and unsymmetric elements, that is, high numerical accuracy, insensitivity to mesh distortion, free of trapezoidal and volumetric locking, and easy implementation.
Applications of Hilbert transform and Newton's root finding algorithm in delineating buried fracture from magnetic anomaly data
Authors: Roy Indrajit G.
Published: October 2021

I propose a simple and sufficiently robust data‐based semi‐automated interpretation of a total magnetic intensity profile to delineate an isolated fracture or a fractured zone embedded within a homogeneous host medium. The interpretation technique, which is based on the premise of induced magnetization, uses a model of a thin, two‐dimensional dipping sheet embedded in a homogeneous half‐space. The proposed quantitative interpretation uses a set of closed form formulae in delineating model parameters; in those the Hilbert transform, the first‐ and second‐order derivatives of the local amplitude of the zero‐order analytical signal are the essential components. The locations of zero crossings of the first‐ and second‐order derivatives of analytical signal and the Hilbert transform remain the essential keys in estimating structural parameters of the model. The magnetic susceptibility contrast is delineated from the peak amplitude of the analytical signal. An appropriately designed Savitzky–Golay derivative filter and Hilbert–Noda transformation matrix are used as robust and efficient data‐processing tools. An additional tool, Newton's root finding algorithm, is proposed for locating the zero crossings. The reconstructed data fit is validated using a statistical appraisal, and the estimated model parameters are defined with an uncertainty measure using the confidence limit. The proposed technique has been applied to synthetic data generated from a model depicting a realistic example, and also on field data from two examples, one of which closely resembles the example of synthetic data and the other as a benchmark example. Numerical experiments validate the applicability of the method.
Intact archeological human bones and age at death studied with transmission x‐ray diffraction and small angle x‐ray scattering
Authors: Park Jun‐Sung , Laugesen Malene , Mays Simon , Birkedal Henrik , Almer Jonathan D. , Stock Stuart R.
Published: October 2021

High‐energy, wide‐angle x‐ray scattering (WAXS, x‐ray diffraction) and small‐angle x‐ray scattering (SAXS) were used to study intact human second metacarpal bones (mc2) from two UK archeological sites. A novel method correcting for irregular mass distribution was applied in these transmission geometry experiments done at beamline 1‐ID of the Advanced Photon Source. The authors asked whether there were age‐at‐death‐related changes in carbonated apatite (cAp) lattice parameters and whether SAXS could detect collagen D‐period peaks in the archeological mc2. For each of the two sites, Ancaster and Wharram Percy in England, six female mc2s were studied; for each site, two were from each of three age‐at‐death cohorts (young, 18–29 years; middle, 30–49 years; old ≥50 years) along with a modern control mc2. The Rietveld method was applied to the WAXS patterns to provide precise lattice parameter values. The cAp lattice parameters did not correlate with age‐at‐death estimated from dental wear. From WAXS and the 00.2 diffraction peak widths, four archeological mc2s possessed coherently scattering domain lengths (crystallite c‐axis sizes) that matched that of the modern mc2; SAXS revealed the same four archeological mc2 had D‐period peak intensities equivalent to that of the modern mc2. The other eight archeological mc2s had significantly larger crystallite sizes (than the modern mc2) and weak or absent D‐period peaks, differences attributed to diagenetic changes. Based on these data, the authors suggest that WAXS 00.2 peak width and SAXS D‐period peak intensity can be used with intact bones to select those likely to retain largely unaltered tissue nanostructure, which might be required for other analyses. Taken as a whole, the results suggest detecting age‐related deterioration in nanostructural features may be difficult in bone showing significant bioerosion.
First case of juvenile primary bone malignant neoplasm in ancient China: A skeleton from the Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534 CE)
Authors: You Sen , Li Mocen , Hou Xiaogang , Li Pengzhen , Sun Yang , Zhang Quanchao , Wang Qian
Published: October 2021

Discoveries of juvenile primary bone malignant neoplasm have been rare in archaeological settings. This study presents the first case as such from ancient China. An individual (M799) aged 14–17 years from the Dongxin cemetery of the Northern Wei Dynasty (386–534 CE), Datong, Shanxi Province, was found with signs of the bone malignant neoplasm. The skeleton of the juvenile was macroscopically examined with the aid of computed tomography imaging. Results demonstrated that a bony outgrowth was found on the distal one third of the diaphysis of the left femur; both osteoblastic and osteolytic processes were present on the lesion (about 148 mm long), and the highly dense and lobulated exophytic mass protruded about 50 mm from the posterior aspect of the diaphysis. A periosteal new bone reaction was found on the adjacent cortex while the medullary cavity was invaded by the lesion. Osteosarcoma was considered the most likely diagnosis, with differential diagnoses of Ewing sarcoma and chondrosarcoma. Otherwise, the disease had no asymmetric effect on femoral length. This rare case enriches our knowledge on the paleoepidemiological patterns of osteosarcoma and other malignant neoplasms from the past.
Fixed‐time synchronization of stochastic complex networks with Markov jump and mixed delays via adaptive non‐chattering control
Authors: Liu Yu , Liu Ming , Xu Xiaofeng
Published: October 2021

In this article, the fixed‐time synchronization problem for stochastic complex networks (CNs) with Markov jump and mixed delays is investigated. Compared with fixed‐time synchronization of stochastic CNs in existing literature, the fixed‐time synchronization for stochastic CNs with Markov jump and mixed delays is studied for the first time, which is of better significance. Utilizing the Lyapunov method, under the framework of adaptive non‐chattering control, some fixed‐time synchronization conditions are derived. Besides, from the results of the convergence time, the convergence time obtained by the fixed‐time synchronization studied in this article does not depend on the initial value of the system, but is only related to the control parameters. Eventually, a numerical example is also carried out to demonstrate the practicability and validity of our proposed results. Furthermore, a secure communication synchronization problem is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Harvesting Distribution Service Lines and Premise Plumbing for Corrosion Control Studies
Authors: Sadik Nora
Published: October 2021

With minimal disruption and realistic results, pipe harvesting as part of a corrosion control study can help utilities effectively test and manage their water distribution system.
Understanding Copper Pitting in Drinking Water Pipes
Authors: Tang Min , Schock Michael R. , Buse Helen Y. , Lytle Darren A. , Fields Robert E. , Masters Sheldon , Triantafyllidou Simoni
Published: October 2021

Copper pitting is a significant but preventable cause of drinking water plumbing failure.
Management of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in the hematopoietic stem cell transplantation population: A systematic review
Authors: Loecher Alyssa M. , West Kathleen , Quinn Timothy D. , Defayette Aubrey A.
Published: October 2021

Pulmonary complications post‐hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) such as diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) can occur in 2% to 14% of HSCT patients and have a mortality greater than 80%. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage is considered to be an inflammatory response; therefore, HSCT patients are primarily treated with different types of systemic corticosteroids with varying dosages. Other treatments currently reported in the literature in conjunction with corticosteroids include aminocaproic acid, recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa), and etanercept. This review highlights appropriate frontline and adjunctive treatment options for HSCT patients with DAH and outcomes for each intervention. To perform the review, the PubMed database was searched from inception through March 19, 2021, to identify potential studies using the search terms DAH and HSCT, DAH and hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT), DAH and stem cell, lung injury and HSCT, and lung injury and HCT. When applicable, references from articles identified in the search were also reviewed for inclusion. Much of the data identified were limited to retrospective cohort studies and case series. Based on the data available, the treatment approach should consist of corticosteroid therapy with a suggested methylprednisolone dose of 250 mg daily followed by a 50% taper every 3 days. Intrapulmonary administration of rFVIIa and intravenous administration of aminocaproic acid could be considered as adjunctive agents in those patients who do not promptly respond to corticosteroid therapy. Due to a lack of data specific to HSCT patients who develop DAH and the risk of infectious complications, etanercept should be avoided. Future studies should be designed as randomized controlled trials and examine the use of adjunctive therapies in the upfront setting for HSCT patients with DAH.
Genome features of common vetch (Vicia sativa) in natural habitats
Authors: Shirasawa Kenta , Kosugi Shunichi , Sasaki Kazuhiro , Ghelfi Andrea , Okazaki Koei , Toyoda Atsushi , Hirakawa Hideki , Isobe Sachiko
Published: October 2021

Wild plants are often tolerant to biotic and abiotic stresses in their natural environments, whereas domesticated plants such as crops frequently lack such resilience. This difference is thought to be due to the high levels of genome heterozygosity in wild plant populations and the low levels of heterozygosity in domesticated crop species. In this study, common vetch (Vicia sativa) was used as a model to examine this hypothesis. The common vetch genome (2n = 14) was estimated as 1.8 Gb in size. Genome sequencing produced a reference assembly that spanned 1.5 Gb, from which 31,146 genes were predicted. Using this sequence as a reference, 24,118 single nucleotide polymorphisms were discovered in 1243 plants from 12 natural common vetch populations in Japan. Common vetch genomes exhibited high heterozygosity at the population level, with lower levels of heterozygosity observed at specific genome regions. Such patterns of heterozygosity are thought to be essential for adaptation to different environments. The resources generated in this study will provide insights into de novo domestication of wild plants and agricultural enhancement.
Proton‐pumping pyrophosphatase homeolog expression is a dynamic trait in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: Menadue Daniel Jamie , Riboni Matteo , Baumann Ute , Schilling Rhiannon Kate , Plett Darren Craig , Roy Stuart John
Published: October 2021

Proton‐pumping pyrophosphatases (H+‐PPases) have been shown to enhance biomass and yield. However, to date, there has been little work towards identify genes encoding H+‐PPases in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) (TaVPs) and limited knowledge on how the expression of these genes varies across different growth stages and tissue types. In this study, the IWGSC database was used to identify two novel TaVP genes, TaVP4 and TaVP5, and elucidate the complete homeolog sequences of the three known TaVP genes, bringing the total number of bread wheat TaVPs from 9 to 15. Gene expression levels of each TaVP homeolog were assessed using quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) in four diverse wheat varieties in terms of phenotypic traits related to high vacuolar pyrophosphatase expression. Homeolog expression was analyzed across multiple tissue types and developmental stages. Expression levels of the TaVP homeologs were found to vary significantly between varieties, tissues and plant developmental stages. During early development (Z10 and Z13), expressions of TaVP1 and TaVP2 homeologs were higher in shoot tissue than root tissue, with both shoot and root expression increasing in later developmental stages (Z22). TaVP2‐D was expressed in all varieties and tissue types and was the most highly expressed homeolog at all developmental stages. Expression of the TaVP3 homeologs was restricted to developing grain (Z75), while TaVP4 homeolog expression was higher at Z22 than earlier developmental stages. Variation in TaVP4B was detected among varieties at Z22 and Z75, with Buck Atlantico (high biomass) and Scout (elite Australian cultivar) having the highest levels of expression. These findings offer a comprehensive overview of the bread wheat H+‐PPase family and identify variation in TaVP homeolog expression that will be of use to improve the growth, yield, and abiotic stress tolerance of bread wheat.
Applications of plasma synthesized ZnO, TiO2, and Zn/TiOx nanoparticles for making antimicrobial wound‐healing viscose patches
Authors: Sirotkin Nikolay , Khlyustova Anna , Costerin Dmitry , Naumova Irina , Titov Valeriy , Agafonov Alexander
Published: October 2021

In this study, an environment‐friendly, energy‐saving, and useful synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs), titanium oxide (TiO2) NPs, and mixed Zn/TiOx‐NPs was achieved using underwater pulse discharge plasma. The obtained NPs were characterized by UV spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. In the discharge cell, the viscose patch is impregnated with ZnO, TiO2, and mixed Zn/TiOx‐NPs in a one‐step process. The adhesive patch is effective against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus albicans, and Bacillus subtilis. The viscose patch containing 0.22% Zn/TiOx‐NPs demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity. These antimicrobial patches can be used to treat and cover wounds susceptible to infection.
Fluid overload in children with pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Leow Esther H. , Wong Judith J.‐M. , Mok Yee H. , Hornik Christoph P. , Ng Yong H. , Lee Jan H.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To assess the association of cumulative fluid overload (FO) up to 14 days from the diagnosis of pediatric acute respiratory syndrome (PARDS) with pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) mortality, 28‐day mechanical ventilation free days (VFD), and 28‐day intensive care unit free days (IFD). We hypothesized that fluid overload, even beyond the acute period, would be associated with increased morbidity and mortality.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of PARDS patients admitted to PICU from 2009 to 2015. For repeated admissions, we considered the admission with the highest oxygenation index (OI). Daily FO (%) was calculated as (intake − output)/weight at PICU admission × 100. Peak cumulative FO (CFO) was the highest CFO from the diagnosis of PARDS to Day 14 or to PICU discharge or mortality, whichever was earliest. Rate to peak CFO was the peak CFO divided by the number of days to reach that highest CFO. The association of FO with mortality, VFD and IFD were analyzed with logistic and linear regression models, with the following covariates: Pediatric Index of Mortality 2 score, PARDS severity, and the presence of acute kidney injury (AKI).

Results

There were 165 patients included in this study, with a mortality rate of 45.5% (75/165), median age 3.2 years (interquartile range [IQR] 0.7–9.9) and OI 15.8 (IQR 9.5–27.9). Seventy‐three (44.2%) patients had severe PARDS and 64 (38.8%) had AKI. AKI (aOR [adjusted odds ratio] 3.19, 95% CI [confidence interval] 1.43–7.09, p = 0.004) and rate to peak cumulative FO (aOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.07–1.42, p = 0.004) were associated with mortality. AKI and peak cumulative FO were associated with decreased VFD and IFD.

Conclusion

The rate to peak CFO over the first 14 days of PARDS was associated with mortality and peak CFO was associated with decreased VFD and IFD.
A successive convex optimization method for bilinear matrix inequality problems and its application to static output‐feedback control
Authors: Ren Yingying , Li Qing , Liu Kang‐Zhi , Ding Da‐Wei
Published: October 2021

This article explores a successive convex optimization method for solving a class of nonconvex programming problems subject to bilinear matrix inequality (BMI) constraints. In particular, many control issues can be boiled down to BMI problems, which are typically NP‐hard. To get out of the predicament, we propose a more relaxed feasible set to approximate the original one, based on which a local optimization algorithm is developed and its convergence is analyzed. As a case of application, we consider static output‐feedback control for uncertain systems with disturbances in restricted frequency intervals. In order to strengthen the disturbance‐rejection capability over the given frequency range, we establish sufficient and necessary analysis conditions via the generalized Kalman‐Yakubovich‐Popov lemma, under which the homogeneous polynomially parameter‐dependent technique is adopted to facilitate the design. Finally, several examples are given to demonstrate the efficiency of the results.