bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison between Mygind and Kaiteki positions in administration of drops to the olfactory cleft
Authors: Milk Dafna G. , Khong Grace C. , Çam Osman H. , Alfaro‐Iraheta Fernando , Tierney Claire , Kassem Firas , Leong Samuel C.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Topical nasal steroids are a common treatment intervention for olfactory dysfunction. Penetration of topical treatment to the olfactory cleft (OC), such as nasal drops, is greatly dependent on the position of the head when the treatment is administered. We aimed to examine the penetrance of nasal drops to the OC in two different head positions: the Mygind (lying head back) position and the Kaiteki position.

Design and Setting

The specimens were firstly positioned in Mygind, and thereafter in Kaiteki positions. Nasal drops mixed with blue food dye were administered into the nostrils in each of the head position. Endoscopic videos were recorded, and two blinded observers scored the extent of olfactory cleft penetration (OCP) using a 4‐point scale (0 = none, 3 = heavy).

Participants

Twelve fresh‐frozen cadaver specimens.

Main outcome measures

Penetration of the dye into the OC.

Results

The mean score of nasal drops penetrance to the OC in the Mygind position was 1.34 (standard deviation, SD = 0.92), as compared to 1.76 (SD = 0.65) in the Kaiteki position. The difference in the OCP score between the two groups was not statistically significant (P > .05).

Conclusion

Both Mygind and Kaiteki head positions are reasonable options for patients considering topical nasal drops for olfaction impairment. The preference of one position over the other should be determined by patient's preference and comfort.
GSTP1andABCB1Polymorphisms Predicting Toxicities and Clinical Management on Carboplatin and Paclitaxel‐Based Chemotherapy in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Ferracini Amanda Canato , Lopes-Aguiar Leisa , Lourenço Gustavo Jacob , Yoshida Adriana , Lima Carmen Silva Passos , Sarian Luis Otávio , Derchain Sophie , Kroetz Deanna L. , Mazzola Priscila Gava
Published: December 2020

Variation in drug disposition genes might contribute to susceptibility to toxicities and interindividual differences in clinical management on chemotherapy for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). This study was designed to explore the association ofGSTandABCB1genetic variation with hematologic and neurologic toxicity, changes in chemotherapy, and disease prognosis in Brazilian women with EOC. A total of 112 women with a confirmed histological diagnosis of EOC treated with carboplatin/paclitaxel were enrolled (2014–2019). The samples were analyzed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the deletion ofGSTM1andGSTT1genes.GSTP1(c.313A>G/rs1695) andABCB1(c.1236C>T/rs1128503; c.3435C>T/rs1045642; c.2677G>T>A/rs2032582) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected by real‐time PCR. Subjects with theGSTP1c.313A>G had reduced risk of anemia (odds ratio (OR): 0.17, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.04–0.69,P = 0.01, dominant model) and for thrombocytopenia (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.12–0.64,P < 0.01; OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.03–0.85,P = 0.03, either dominant or recessive model), respectively. TheGSTP1c.313A>G AG genotype was associated with a lower risk of dose delay (OR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13–0.90,P = 0.03). TheABCB1c.1236C>T was associated with increased risk of thrombocytopenia (OR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.03–0.82,P = 0.03), whereasABCB1c.3435C>T had increased risk of grade 2 and 3 neurotoxicity (OR: 3.61, 95% CI: 1.08–121.01,P = 0.03) in recessive model (CC + CT vs. TT). This study suggests thatGSTP1c.313A>G,ABCB1c.1236C>T, and c.3435C>T SNP detection is a potential predictor of hematological toxicity and neurotoxicity and could help predict the clinical management of women with EOC.
The many faces of Sox2 function in neural crest development
Authors: Wakamatsu Yoshio , Uchikawa Masanori
Published: December 2020

Neural crest (NC) cells give rise to a wide variety of cell types and tissues, such as neurons and glial cells in the peripheral nervous system. Sox2, which encodes an HMG‐box transcription factor, is known to mediate pluripotency of primordial germ cells and embryonic stem (ES)/induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, and to regulate central nervous system development. Previous studies have revealed that Sox2 is also an important regulator of NC development. This review summarizes the well‐established inhibitory roles of Sox2 in NC formation and subsequent neuronal differentiation of NC‐derived cells. This review also covers recent studies suggesting additional roles for Sox2 in early NC development, neurogenesis, and glial differentiation of NC‐derived cells.
Assessment of subclinical diabetic cardiomyopathy by speckle‐tracking imaging
Authors: Minciună Ioan‐Alexandru , Hilda Orășan Olga , Minciună Iulia , Lazar Andrada‐Luciana , Sitar‐Tăut Adela Viviana , Oltean Monica , Tomoaia Raluca , Puiu Mihai , Sitar‐Tăut Dan‐Andrei , Pop Dana , Cozma Angela
Published: December 2020

Background

Diastolic dysfunction is traditionally believed to be the first subclinical manifestation of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), leading to systolic dysfunction and then overt heart failure. However, in the last few years, several studies suggested that systolic subclinical dysfunction measured by speckle‐tracking echocardiography (STE) may appear ahead of diastolic dysfunction. In this review, the main endpoint is to show whether subclinical myocardial systolic dysfunction appears ahead of diastolic dysfunction and the implication this may have on the evolution and management of DCM.

Materials and methods

We performed a search in PubMed for all relevant publications on the assessment of DCM by STE from 1 June 2015 to 1 June 2020.

Results and Conclusions

The results illustrate that subclinical systolic dysfunction assessed by STE is present in early DCM stages, with or without the association of diastolic dysfunction. This could be a promising perspective for the early management of patients with DCM leading to the prevention of the overt form of disease.
Prognostic value of natural killer cell/T cell ratios for disease activity in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mimpen Max , Muris Anne‐Hilde , Rolf Linda , Gerlach Oliver , Kuhle Jens , Hupperts Raymond , Smolders Joost , Damoiseaux Jan
Published: December 2020

Background and purpose

Natural killer (NK) cells may play a role in multiple sclerosis (MS). Ratios of NK cells to CD4+T cells have been proposed as a biomarker for the therapeutic effect of stem cell transplantation in MS. The objectives here were to explore the relevance of this ratio in MS patients by analysing NK and T cell subsets, as well as their prognostic value for disease activity.

Methods

Baseline peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 50 relapsing–remitting MS patients, participating in our vitamin D supplementation study (SOLARIUM), were analysed with flow cytometry. Disease activity was measured as new magnetic resonance imaging lesions, relapses and mean plasma neurofilament light chain levels after 48 weeks of follow‐up.

Results

The proportion of NK cells correlated negatively with CD4+T cells (R = −0.335,p = 0.001) and interleukin 17A (IL‐17A+) CD4+T cells (R = −0.203,p = 0.043). Participants with magnetic resonance imaging activity or relapses displayed lower NK/IL‐17A+ CD4+T cell ratios (p =0.025 andp = 0.006, respectively). The NK/IL‐17A+ CD4+T cell ratio correlated negatively with neurofilament light chain levels (R = −0.320,p = 0.050). Vitamin D supplementation did not affect these ratios.

Conclusions

Our data suggest a protective role of an expanded NK cell compartment compared to the CD4+T cell subset fractions in relapsing–remitting MS patients. NK/CD4+T cell ratios may be a prognostic biomarker for disease activity in MS.
Successful vitrification of manually punctured equine embryos
Authors: Wilsher Sandra , Rigali Florencia , Kovacsy Sofia , Allen WR (Twink)
Published: December 2020

Background

Successful vitrification of equine expanded blastocysts requires collapse of the blastocoele cavity using a micromanipulator‐mounted biopsy pipette on an inverted microscope. Such equipment is expensive and requires user skill.

Objectives

To develop a manual method of blastocoele collapse prior to vitrification using commercial products.

Study design

In vivo experiment.

Methods

Seventy‐nine Day 7 or 8 embryos were measured and graded. Twenty were vitrified following micromanipulator‐assisted puncture and aspiration before being used to validate commercial human vitrification and warming kits containing, respectively, 2‐step concentrations of DMSO and ethylene glycol (7.5%–15% v:v) and decreasing concentrations of sucrose. After warming, embryos were transferred to recipient mares. Once validated, the commercial kits were used to vitrify and warm a further 39 embryos which were punctured manually using a microneedle, 2 (5%) were damaged during puncture and excluded; 20 more embryos were vitrified without puncture. Embryos were grouped as follows: non‐punctured ≤ 300µm (n = 10) and >300 to ≤560 µm (n = 10), punctured small (>300 to ≤560 µm; n = 17) and large (>560 µm; n = 10) and exposed to the equilibration solution (ES) in the kit for 6min. An additional group of punctured large embryos was exposed to ES for 8min (n = 10). For the initial warming step, embryos were exposed for 1min to the thawing solution at 42°C, before being moved to a dilution solution at room temperature.

Results

Vitrified, manually punctured embryos ≤560 µm exposed to ES for 6min resulted in a pregnancy rate of 82% (14/17). Unpunctured embryos ≤300 µm gave an 80% (8/10) pregnancy rate. Larger unpunctured embryos, punctured embryos >560 µm and embryos exposed to ES for 8min gave significantly reduced pregnancy rates.

Main limitations

Limited group sizes.

Conclusion

High pregnancy rates can be achieved by manually puncturing ≤560 µm equine embryos prior to their vitrification and subsequent warming in commercial media.
Biology and conservation of the European stag beetle: recent advances and lessons learned
Authors: Méndez Marcos , Thomaes Arno
Published: December 2020

Reliable information for the conservation of many insects is lacking due to a poor knowledge of their ecology. Here, we review the biological knowledge about the European stag beetle (Lucanus cervus), in which recent advances are improving the basis for successful conservation.

A review of the biological and ecological literature about this species identified an exponential increase in both total and peer‐reviewed articles after Natura 2000 regulations.

Recent progress in the last two decades has been made in solving taxonomic problems, as well as in habitat description through radiotelemetry and habitat models. Dependence on large old‐growth forest has given place to a more complex picture of habitat use along the distribution range of this species. Monitoring protocols have been developed that will allow to assess conservation status and actual decline.

Stag beetle conservation would benefit from a better understanding of larval demography, quantification of microhabitat requirements, landscape genetics and quantification of historical and current threats.

Lessons learned include the need to solve taxonomic problems and to target methodological bottlenecks. The stag beetle is one of the few European saproxylic organisms that can engage the broad public through outreach activities and therefore its role as an umbrella species should be promoted.
Flavor lexicon development (in English and Chinese) and descriptive analysis of Sichuan pepper
Authors: Yang Gongshun , Chambers Edgar , Wang Hongwei
Published: December 2020

A lexicon in English and Chinese was developed to describe the aroma and flavor profiles of sensory characteristics of Zanthoxylum bungeanum, also known as Sichuan pepper 花椒 or Chinese prickly ash. A trained, experienced descriptive analysis panel was used to determine the flavor characteristics for Sichuan Pepper. A total of 32 sensory attributes were detected, which included 15 attributes for aroma and 17 attributes for flavor. The aroma profile included peppery, green, citrus, pungent, fennel anise, brothy, floral/perfumy, piney, fruity, sweet aromatics, petroleum‐like, chive, earthy, brown, and menthol. The flavor profile included peppery, green, citrus, pungent, minty, floral, piney, fruity, petroleum‐like, earthy, cardboard, green‐viney, umami, bitter, astringent, tingle, and numbing. The lexicon was validated and demonstrated through 16 different Sichuan pepper samples, including subspecies, locations, and brands. Green Sichuan peppers were more highly flavored and more similar to each other than red peppers suggesting that older plants producing red peppers produce milder and slightly more differentiated samples.

Practical Applications

Sichuan pepper is a major flavor ingredient in some types of Asian cooking. A lexicon is needed to identify the effects of different subspecies and processing technologies for Sichuan pepper in order to understand differences in aroma and flavor among these “peppers.” The developed lexicon has been shown to differentiate among commercial samples.
Tissue‐specific transcription patterns support the kinship theory of intragenomic conflict in honey bees (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Galbraith David A. , Ma Rong , Grozinger Christina M.
Published: December 2020

Kin selection may act differently on genes inherited from parents (matrigenes and patrigenes), resulting in intragenomic conflict. This conflict can be observed as differential expression of matrigenes and patrigenes, or parent‐specific gene expression (PSGE). In honey bees (Apis mellifera), intragenomic conflict is hypothesized to occur in multiple social contexts. Previously, we found that patrigene‐biased expression in reproductive tissues was associated with increased reproductive potential in worker honey bees, consistent with the prediction that patrigenes are selected to promote selfish behaviour in this context. Here, we examined brain gene expression patterns to determine if PSGE is also found in other tissues. As before, the number of transcripts showing patrigene expression bias was significantly greater in the brains of reproductive vs. sterile workers, while the number of matrigene‐biased transcripts was not significantly different. Twelve transcripts out of the 374 showing PSGE in either tissue showed PSGE in both brain and reproductive tissues; this overlap was significantly greater than expected by chance. However, the majority of transcripts show PSGE only in one tissue, suggesting the epigenetic mechanisms mediating PSGE exhibit plasticity between tissues. There was no significant overlap between transcripts that showed PSGE and transcripts that were significantly differentially expressed. Weighted gene correlation network analysis identified modules which were significantly enriched in both types of transcripts, suggesting that these genes may influence each other through gene networks. Our results provide further support for the kin selection theory of intragenomic conflict, and provide valuable insights into the mechanisms which may mediate this process.
The effect of overexpression of Lrp5 on orthodontic tooth movement
Authors: Holland Robert , Bain Carol , Alrasheed Rawan S. , Robling Alexander G. , Utreja Achint
Published: December 2020

Structured Abstract

Objective

To analyse the effect of gain‐of‐function mutations in the low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 (Lrp5) on orthodontic tooth movement (OTM).

Setting and Sample Population

A split‐mouth study design was utilized. Thirty‐two male Lrp5‐high bone mass (HBM) knock‐in mice including A214V and G171V mutants (n = 16/group) and sixteen C57BL/6 wild‐type (WT) mice were included in the study.

Materials and Methods

A mouse model of OTM was used for mesial movement of the maxillary first molar using a closed‐coil nickel titanium (NiTi) spring attached between the molar and the incisors. After 21 days, the dissected maxillae were scanned for micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) analyses and embedded in methyl methacrylate and paraffin for histological staining and imaging. Histological analyses included immunohistochemistry for sclerostin (Sost), tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining for osteoclasts and fluorescent imaging.

Results

OTM in the A214V and G171V groups was significantly less than the WT group. Bone volume (BV), per cent bone volume (BV/TV) and trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) were significantly increased in both A241V and G171V animals compared to the WT animals. On the compression side, decreased osteoclast activity was seen in both A214V and G171V groups compared to the WT group. Fluorescent labelling demonstrated that the pattern of bone deposition in the A214V animals was periosteal whereas the G171V animals added bone endocortically.

Conclusion

Gain‐of‐function mutations of Lrp5 decrease orthodontic tooth movement by increasing alveolar bone mass and reducing osteoclast‐mediated bone resorption.
Human herpesvirus 6 reactivation in unmanipulated haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation predicts the occurrence of grade II to IV acute graft‐versus‐host disease
Authors: Han Ting‐Ting , Zhang Yi‐Ning , Sun Yu‐Qian , Kong Jun , Wang Feng‐Rong , Wang Zhi‐Dong , Cheng Yi‐Fei , Yan Chen‐Hua , Wang Yu , Xu Lan‐Ping , Zhang Xiao‐Hui , Liu Kai‐Yan , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Zhao Xiao‐Su
Published: December 2020

Background

Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV‐6) reactivation is relatively common after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT). However, the incidence of HHV‐6 reactivation and the clinical outcomes following unmanipulated haploidentical HSCT (haplo‐HSCT) remain unknown.

Method

We prospectively monitored blood HHV‐6 DNA using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction weekly until day 100 post unmanipulated haplo‐HSCT in patients with hematological malignancies.

Results

From November 2016 to March 2017, 102 patients (58 male and 44 female, median age 25(2‐58) years old) were enrolled. Within 100 days post‐transplantation, 27 patients (27/136, 19.9%) developed HHV‐6 viremia with a median onset time of 14 (7‐98) days. The cumulative incidence of HHV‐6 reactivation on day 100 post‐HSCT was 25.5 ± 4.3% in haplo‐HSCT. The median HHV‐6 copy number was 1.45 × 103 (5.48 × 102‐2.00 × 104) copies/ml. The HHV‐6 viremia duration time was 7 days in 23 patients, 14 days in one patient and 21 days in one patient. In multivariate analysis, prior HHV‐6 reactivation was an independent risk factor for grade 2‐4 graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD). But it did not influence the overall survival (OS)(HR 1.624, 95%CI 0.768‐3.432, P = .204), disease‐free survival (DFS) (HR 1.640, 95%CI 0.799‐3.367, P = .177) and non‐relapse mortality (NRM) (HR 1.644, 95%CI 0.670‐4.038, P = .278).

Conclusion

The reactivation of HHV‐6 after unmanipulated haploidentical transplantation predicts the occurrence of grade 2‐4 a‐GVHD, but it may not influence the overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS) and non‐relapse mortality (NRM).
NOVEL COMPOSITE OF SILVER-BACTERIAL CELLULOSE (Ag-BC) FROM SIWALAN SAP (Borassus flabellifer) AND ITS ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY
Authors: Suntini Suntini , Indrianingsih Anastasia Wheni , Harjono Harjono
Published: December 2020

Recently, a wound healing from natural composite with excellent properties is in a high demand. In this study, a novel composite of bacterial cellulose made from Siwalan sap (Borassus flabellifer) was achieved. Siwalan is a common plant in Java Island of Indonesia and the application is very limited for beverage only. This study aims to determine the effect of the AgNO3/NaBH4 concentration ratio in the development of Ag-BC composites and its antibacterial properties from Siwalan sap. Ag-BC composites were prepared by impregnating the silver solution into the BC matrix through the reduction process with NaBH4. Characterization of Ag-BC composites conducted using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). Antibacterial assay was performed using disc diffusion method against Salmonella typhimurium (Gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) bacteria. The characterization of Ag-BC composite shows the nanostructure of BC with a length of fiber around 35-60 nm in width. The SEM-EDX micrograph showed that silver particles were impregnated into the BC matrix. Antibacterial activity test results showed that the Ag-BC composite had the ability to inhibit the bacteria S. typhimurium and S. aureus with good inhibition. This result showed the potential application of Ag-BC composite from Siwalan plant as a natural material for medical and pharmaceutical purpose, especially as an antibacterial agent.
Recovery of Methanotrophic Activity Is Not Reflected in the Methane-Driven Interaction Network after Peat Mining
Authors: Kaupper Thomas , Mendes Lucas W. , Harnisz Monica , Krause Sascha M. B. , Horn Marcus A. , Ho Adrian
Published: December 2020

The resilience and recovery of microorganisms from disturbances are often determined with regard to their activity and community composition/abundances. Rarely has the response of the network of interacting microorganisms been considered, despite accumulating evidence showing that microbial interaction modulates community functioning.
Short bowel syndrome in infancy: recent advances and practical management
Authors: Cernat Elena , Corlett Chloe , Iglesias Natalia , Onyeador Nkem , Steele Julie , Batra Akshay
Published: December 2020

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a rare condition characterised by extensive loss of intestinal mass secondary to congenital or acquired disease. The outcomes are determined by dependency on parenteral nutrition (PN), its possible complications and factors that influence intestinal adaptation. In order to achieve the best results, patients should be managed by a specialised multidisciplinary team with the aims of promoting growth and development, stimulating intestinal adaptation and preventing possible complications. This involves timely surgical management aimed at rescuing maximum bowel length and eventually re-establishing intestinal continuity where appropriate. A combination of enteral and parenteral nutrition needs to be targeted towards maintaining a balance between fulfilling the nutritional and metabolic needs of the child while preventing or at least minimising potential complications. Enteral nutrition and establishment of oral feeding play a fundamental role in stimulating bowel adaptation and promoting enteral autonomy. Other measures to promote enteral autonomy include the chyme recycling in patients where bowel is not in continuity, autologous gastrointestinal reconstruction and pharmacological treatments, including promising new therapies like teduglutide. Strategies such as lipid reduction, changing the type of lipid emulsion and cycling PN are associated with a reduction in the rates of intestinal failure–associated liver disease. Even though vast improvements have been made in the surgical and medical management of SBS, there is still lack of consensus in many aspects and collaboration is essential.
Renal Lipid Accumulation, Oxidative Stress and Uric Acid Handling in a Rodent Model of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Rosenthal Tara R , Park Sun K , Kairamkonda Subash , Khatoon Sabiha , Pop Laurentiu M , Bobulescu Ion Alexandru
Published: December 2020

Hyperuricemia is more prevalent among people with obesity and metabolic syndrome, and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. We hypothesized that increased renal reabsorption of uric acid (UA) in obesity and metabolic syndrome may be an adaptive response of the kidney when faced with fatty acid-induced oxidative stress. To test this hypothesis, we examined lipid accumulation, markers of oxidative stress, and renal UA handling in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, and in matched lean control animals. Rats were randomized to either normal rodent chow or a diet supplemented with antioxidants (α-tocopheryl acetate, sodium selenite, zinc sulfate, and ascorbic acid), and were followed up for either 4 or 20 weeks after randomization. Dietary antioxidant supplementation had no significant effects in lean control rats but led to partial improvement in markers of elevated oxidative stress in the kidney of ZDF rats. Renal UA handling was not affected by antioxidant supplementation. We observed robust correlations between renal lipid content and oxidative stress markers in the pooled experimental groups, particularly in older animals after 20 weeks on the study diets. Dietary antioxidant supplementation did not prevent the gradual decline in renal function observed in older ZDF rats. These findings suggest that hyperuricemia in the ZDF rat model of obesity and the metabolic syndrome is not caused by renal oxidative stress, that there may be a pathophysiological link between lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in the kidney, and that antioxidant supplementation does not prevent age-related decline in renal function in ZDF rats.
In vivo therapeutic effects of affinity-improved-TCR engineered T-cells on HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Qi , Tian Ye , Li Yanyan , Zhang Wei , Cai Wenxuan , Liu Yaju , Ren Yuefei , Liang Zhaoduan , Zhou Peipei , Zhang Yajing , Bao Yifeng , Li Yi
Published: December 2020

Background

In patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) fail to eliminate HCC cells expressing HBV antigens. As the expression of viral antigen in HBV-associated HCC may decrease to allow tumor to escape immune attacks, we hypothesized that an HBV surface antigen (HBsAg)-specific affinity-improved-T-cell receptor (TCR) will enable T cells to target HCC more effectively than corresponding wild-type-TCR. We also postulated that TCR promiscuity can be exploited to efficiently capture HBV variants that can hinder CTL-based therapeutics.

Methods

We applied flexi-panning to isolate affinity-improved TCRs binding to a variant antigen, the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A*02:01-restricted nonapeptide HBs371-379-ILSPFLPLL, from libraries constructed with a TCR cloned using the decapeptide HBs370-379-SIVSPFIPLL. The potency and safety of the affinity-improved-TCR engineered T-cells (Ai-TCR-T) were verified with potentially cross-reactive human and HBV-variant peptides, tumor and normal cells, and xenograft mouse models.

Results

Ai-TCR-T cells retained cognate HBV antigen specificity and recognized a wide range of HBV genotypic variants with improved sensitivity and cytotoxicity. Cell infusions produced complete elimination of HCC without recurrence in the xenograft mouse models. Elevated accumulation of CD8+ Ai-TCR-T cells in tumors correlated with tumor shrinkage.

Conclusion

The in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that HBsAg-specific Ai-TCR-T cells had safety profiles similar to those of their wild-type counterparts and significantly enhanced potency. This study presents an approach to develop new therapeutic strategies for HBV-related HCC.
Trophic niche overlap and abundance reveal potential impact of interspecific interactions on a reintroduced fish
Authors: Larocque Sarah M. , Johnson Timothy B. , Fisk Aaron T.
Published: December 2020

Conceptually, trophic niche overlap and species abundance can describe the strength and number of interspecific trophic interactions to determine the competitive impact on reintroduced species or other ecosystem changes. We use an example with young-of-year (YOY) Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) reintroductions to determine whether trophic niche overlaps and abundances limit restoration success. Using seasonal stable isotopes and abundance estimates for invertivorous fishes in three Lake Ontario tributaries, we assessed community isotopic structure, trophic niche overlap, and the impact of the niche overlap by incorporating relative abundance. Brown trout (Salmo trutta) YOY could be a strong competitor with a high trophic niche overlap with Atlantic salmon YOY, but at lower abundances relative to Atlantic salmon there is minimal impact. Stream resident fish communities appeared to partition resources across seasons such that abundant species had low trophic niche overlap to minimize overall competition with Atlantic salmon YOY given available resources, indicating niche complementarity. Through joint consideration of trophic overlap and abundance using our conceptual model, the competitive impact of community composition on a reintroduced species could be assessed.
Non-HDL cholesterol level and depression among Canadian elderly—a cross-sectional analysis of the baseline data from the CLSA
Authors: Liu Jian , Son Surim , Giancaterino Mike , Verschoor Chris P. , Narushima Miya
Published: December 2020

To explore whether non-high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-c) is associated with depression, a total of 26 819 Canadians aged 45–85 from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) were included in analysis. Non-HDL-c, the difference between total-c and HDL-c, was categorized into five levels, i.e., <2.6, 2.6 to <3.7, 3.7 to <4.8, 4.8 to 5.7, and ≥5.7 mmol/L. History of clinical depression was collected by questionnaire at an in-home interview, and current potential depression status was determined by CES-D10 (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale 10 questions version) score, i.e., ≥10 vs. <10. Logistic continuation ratio model for ordinal data was used to estimate the odds of being at or above a higher non-HDL-c category for depression status. Compared with those without clinical depression history and currently undepressed, the adjusted odds ratios (95% CI) were 1.09 (1.02, 1.17) for those without clinical depression history but currently depressed, 1.05 (0.98, 1.12) for those had clinical depression history but currently undepressed, and 1.21 (1.10, 1.32) for those had clinical depression history and currently depressed. The average of non-HDL-c for four depression groups were 3.64, 3.71, 3.69, and 3.82 mmol/L, respectively, and group 4 was statistically higher than others ( p < 0.001). In conclusion, people with both current depression and a history clinical depression are at an increased risk of having high level of non-HDL-c.
How to transition incrementally to microservice architecture
Authors: Bozan Karoly , Lyytinen Kalle , Rose Gregory M.
Published: December 2020

A field study examines technological advances that have created versatile software ecosystems to develop and deploy microservices.
Automating the censorship arms race
Authors: Bock Kevin , Levin Dave
Published: December 2020

Evading oppressive internet censorship is possible, but discovering how is difficult and time-consuming for humans. Geneva is a genetic algorithm that automatically discovers and implements censorship circumvention strategies---many of which were long thought impossible.
Feasibility of Stabilized Zn and Pb Contaminated Soils as Roadway Subgrade Materials
Authors: Wei Mingli , Ni Hao , Zhou Shiji , Li Yuan
Published: December 2020

The authors have developed a new binder, KMP, which is made from oxalic acid‐activated phosphate rock, monopotassium phosphate (KH2PO4), and reactive magnesia (MgO). This study explores the acid neutralization capacity, strength characteristics, water‐soaking durability, resilient modulus, and pore size distribution of KMP stabilized soils with individual Zn, Pb, or coexisting Zn and Pb contaminants. For comparison purpose, Portland cement (PC) is also tested. The results show that KMP stabilized soils have a higher acid buffering capacity than PC stabilized soils, regardless of the soil contamination conditions. The water stability coefficient and resilient modulus of the KMP stabilized soils are found to be higher than PC stabilized soils. The reasons for the differences in these properties between KMP and PC stabilized soils are interpreted based on the stability and dissolubility of the main hydration products of the KMP and PC stabilized soils, the soil pore distribution, and concentration of Mg or Ca leached from the KMP and PC stabilized soils obtained from the acid neutralization capacity tests. Overall, this study demonstrates that the KMP is effective in stabilizing soils that are contaminated with Zn or Pb alone and mixed Zn and Pb contaminants, and the KMP stabilized soils are better suited as roadway subgrade material.
Optimal Metric Evaluation-Based Multicue Inverse Sparse Appearance Model for Object Tracking
Authors: An Xiaowei , Zhao Qi , Sun Nongliang , Liang Quanquan
Published: December 2020

In order to obtain the discriminative compact appearance model for tracking objects effectively, this paper proposes a new structural tracking strategy that includes multicue inverse sparse appearance model and optimal metric evaluation between online robust templates and a limited number of particle samples in the looping process. Multicue inverse sparse appearance model globally improves the efficient selection of informative particle samples that can avoid the cumbersome coding and decoding cost for the trivial random particle samples. Only the most potential crucial cases are involved in each tracking loop. This refrains from unreasonable, rough numerical reduction of particle samples and also keeps the unbiasedness and dynamic stochasticness of the sampling process. Meanwhile, low-rank self-representatives for positive and negative samples facilitate the formulation of a suitable code book that arranges the useful sparse coefficients for feature bags and facilitates optimal metric evaluation for online training. It also alleviates the accuracy degradation of tracking occluded objects and improves the robustness of the tracker. Both of them preserve the discriminative compactness of target which speeds up particle filtering localization to separate the target object from distractors. Moreover, the proposed method exploits online appearance representations to learn the sharing compact information that avoids massive calculation burdens for massive visual data.
How Information Communication Technology Can Enhance Evidence-Based Decisions and Farm-to-Fork Animal Traceability for Livestock Farmers
Authors: Mwanga G. , Mbega E. , Yonah Z. , Chagunda M. G. G.
Published: December 2020

Due to changes in the livestock sector and the rise of consumer demand for comprehensive and integrated food security and safety, there has been a concern on the use of farm data in enhancing animal traceability and decision-making by farmers and other decision-makers in the livestock sector. To ensure high production through effective decision-making and auditable standards, producers are required to have better traceability and record systems. Therefore, this study aimed at (1) reviewing the current recording/data management and animal traceability systems used by small-scale farmers in developing countries and (2) analyzing how data management systems should be designed to enhance efficient decision-making and animal traceability from farm to fork. This study found that, still, a majority of small-scale farmers do not keep records leading to poor decision-making on the farm and policymaking. We also found that those who keep records do not store their data in electronic format, which again poses another challenge in data analysis. Moreover, this study found that the majority of traceability tools used by farmers in developing countries do not meet international standards based on tools they use for tracing animals; farmers were reported to use tools like branding and ear tagging, which provide very little information about the animal. Such tools lack the capability to keep track of useful information about an animal, e.g., information about feeding and animal health. In conclusion, this study recommended a better electronic system to be used at the farm level to facilitate data analysis, hence promoting informed decision-making and adherence to the international animal traceability standards. Otherwise, there is a need for researchers to conduct more studies in developing different analytical models for exploring on-farm data in order to improve the decision-making process by farmers and other stakeholders.
Critical Analysis of Stage IV Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Patients after Treatment with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy followed by Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC)
Authors: Munoz-Zuluaga Carlos A. , Sardi Armando , Sittig Michelle , Gushchin Vadim , King Mary C. , Nieroda Carol , Lopez-Ramirez Felipe , Diaz-Montes Teresa P.
Published: December 2020

Background. Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) showed promise as initial treatment for stage IIIC (SIII) epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC); however, stage IV (SIV) outcomes are rarely reported. We assessed our experience and outcomes treating newly diagnosed SIV EOC with NACT plus CRS/HIPEC compared to SIII patients. Methods. Advanced EOC from 2015–2018 managed with NACT (carboplatin/paclitaxel) due to unresectable disease or poor performance status followed by interval CRS/HIPEC were reviewed. Perioperative factors were assessed. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were analyzed by stage. Results. Twenty-seven FIGO stage IIIC (n = 12) and IV (n = 15) patients were reviewed. Median NACT cycles were 3 and 4, respectively. Post-NACT omental caking, ascites, and pleural effusions decreased/resolved in 91%, 91%, and 100% of SIII and 85%, 92%, and 71% of SIV. SIII/SIV median PCI was 21 and 20 obtaining 92% and 100% complete cytoreduction (≤0.25 cm), respectively. Median organ resections were 6 and 7, respectively. Grade III/IV surgical complications were 0% SIII and 23% SIV, without hospital mortality. Median time to adjuvant chemotherapy was 53 and 74 days, respectively (

p
=
0.007

). SIII OS at 1 and 2 years was 100% and 83% and 87% and 76% in SIV (

p
=
0.269

). SIII 1-year PFS was 54%; median PFS: 12 months. SIV 1- and 2- year PFS was 47% and 23%; median PFS: 12 months (

p
=
0.944

). Conclusion. Outcomes in select initially diagnosed and unresectable SIV EOC are similar to SIII after NACT plus CRS/HIPEC. SIV EOC may benefit from CRS/HIPEC, and further studies should explore this treatment approach.
A Double Nonmonotone Quasi-Newton Method for Nonlinear Complementarity Problem Based on Piecewise NCP Functions
Authors: Yu Zhensheng , Wang Zilun , Su Ke
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a double nonmonotone quasi-Newton method is proposed for the nonlinear complementarity problem. By using 3-1 piecewise and 4-1 piecewise nonlinear complementarity functions, the nonlinear complementarity problem is reformulated into a smooth equation. By a double nonmonotone line search, a smooth Broyden-like algorithm is proposed, where a single solution of a smooth equation at each iteration is required with the reduction in the scale of the calculation. Under suitable conditions, the global convergence of the algorithm is proved, and numerical results with some practical applications are given to show the efficiency of the algorithm.
Thermodynamic Modeling of Boron Species in the Ternary System Na2O-B2O3-H2O at 298.15 K
Authors: Fu Qingtao , Chen Lele , Song Xiaohui , Li Dan , Yang Xiuxiu , Meng Lingzong , Guo Yafei , Deng Tianlong
Published: December 2020

The solubilities; concentration of four boron species B(OH)3, B(OH)4−, B3O3(OH)4−, and B4O5(OH)42−; and H+ (OH–) in the system Na2O–B2O3–H2O were calculated with the Pitzer model. The boron species B5O6(OH)4− was not considered in the model calculation. The calculated solubility and pH data are in accordance with the experimental results. The Pitzer model can be used to describe the experimental values. The distributions of the four boron species in the solution were obtained. The mole fractions of the four boron species are mainly affected by the ratio of B2O3 and Na2O in the solution. The dominant boron species in the solution saturated with different salts vary greatly. The results can supply a theoretical reference for sodium borate separation from brine.
Grain Growth of AZ31 Magnesium Alloy Based on Three‐Dimensional Cellular Automata
Authors: Li Yanfeng , Liu Cuirong , Chu Zhibing , Li Wei , Wu Zhisheng , Gao Shan , He Wenwu
Published: December 2020

Based on the thermodynamic conversion mechanism and energy transition principle, a three‐dimensional cellular automata model of grain growth is established from the aspects of grain orientation, grain size distribution, grain growth kinetics, and grain topology. Also, the effect of temperature on the three‐dimensional grain growth process of AZ31 magnesium alloy is analyzed. The results show that the normal growth of three‐dimensional grains satisfies the Aboav‐weaire equation, the average number of grain planes is between 12 and 14 at 420°C and 2000 CAS, and the maximum number of grain planes is more than 40. Grains of different sizes are distributed normally at different times, most of which are grains with the ratio of grain diameter to average grain diameter R/Rm ≈ 1.0, which meets the minimum energy criterion of grain evolution. The grain of AZ31 magnesium alloy increases in size with the increase of temperature, and the number of grains decreases with the increase in time. The angle between the two‐dimensional slices of three‐dimensional grains is approximately 120°, which is consistent with that of the traditional two‐dimensional cellular automata. The relative error of grain size before and after heat preservation is in the range of 0.1–0.6 μm, which indicates that the 3D cellular automata can accurately simulate the heat preservation process of AZ31 magnesium alloy.
Matrix Metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 Occupy a New Role in Severe Preeclampsia
Authors: Timokhina Elena , Strizhakov Alexander , Ibragimova Sapiyat , Gitel Evgeny , Ignatko Irina , Belousova Vera , Zafiridi Nikoleta
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Preeclampsia (PE) is a life-threatening condition for the mother, the fetus, and the newborn. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) participate in the two primary stages of PE: remodeling of blood vessels at the stage of placental formation and the development of hypertension due to damage to the basement membrane of blood vessels. The object of the present study was to reveal the role of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the development of severe preeclampsia. Materials and Methods. We conducted a retrospective study that included 92 pregnant women at a gestational age of 26-38 weeks, of which the principal group consisted of 61 patients with severe PE. We divided the principal group into two subgroups: the first subgroup was designated the severe early-onset preeclampsia (EO-PE) group and consisted of 30 pregnant women. The second group was designated the severe late-onset preeclampsia (LO-PE) group, comprising 31 patients. We determined the plasma concentrations of MMPs 2 and 9 in the groups with an ELISA. Results. In the group of PE patients with both EO-PE and LO-PE, the level of MMP-2 was significantly higher compared to the women undergoing normal pregnancy; and we observed no significant differences when we compared the levels of MMP-2 in the subgroups with EO-PE and LO-PE. Analysis of the concentrations of MMP-9 in EO-PE and LO-PE subgroups revealed attenuated levels of MMP-9 in both groups relative to the control group. We also noted a diminished level of MMP-9 in the EO-PE group compared to the LO-PE group. Conclusions. The significantly increased levels of MMP-2 in women—both in the EO-PE and LO severe PE subgroups—explain the participation of this enzyme in endothelial dysfunction in the second stage of severe PE. A diminution in MMP-9 in the EO-PE group confirmed the participation of MMP-9 in the process of spiral artery transformation.
Lifting-Based Fractional Wavelet Filter: Energy-Efficient DWT Architecture for Low-Cost Wearable Sensors
Authors: Tausif Mohd , Khan Ekram , Hasan Mohd , Reisslein Martin
Published: December 2020

This paper proposes and evaluates the LFrWF, a novel lifting-based architecture to compute the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) of images using the fractional wavelet filter (FrWF). In order to reduce the memory requirement of the proposed architecture, only one image line is read into a buffer at a time. Aside from an LFrWF version with multipliers, i.e., the LFr

WF

m

, we develop a multiplier-less LFrWF version, i.e., the LFr

WF

ml

, which reduces the critical path delay (CPD) to the delay

T

a

of an adder. The proposed LFr

WF

m

and LFr

WF

ml

architectures are compared in terms of the required adders, multipliers, memory, and critical path delay with state-of-the-art DWT architectures. Moreover, the proposed LFr

WF

m

and LFr

WF

ml

architectures, along with the state-of-the-art FrWF architectures (with multipliers (Fr

WF

m

) and without multipliers (Fr

WF

ml

)) are compared through implementation on the same FPGA board. The LFr

WF

m

requires 22% less look-up tables (LUT), 34% less flip-flops (FF), and 50% less compute cycles (CC) and consumes 65% less energy than the Fr

WF

m

. Also, the proposed LFr

WF

ml

architecture requires 50% less CC and consumes 43% less energy than the Fr

WF

ml

. Thus, the proposed LFr

WF

m

and LFr

WF

ml

architectures appear suitable for computing the DWT of images on wearable sensors.
Identifying Key Bus Stations Based on Complex Network Theory considering the Hybrid Influence and Passenger Flow: A Case Study of Beijing, China
Authors: Jia Jianlin , Chen Yanyan , Chen Ning , Yao Hui , Li Yongxing , Liu Zhuo
Published: December 2020

In the bus network, key bus station failure can interrupt transfer lines, which leads to the low effectiveness of the whole network, especially during peak hours. Thus, identifying key stations in the bus network before the emergency occurs has a great significance to improve the response speed. In this paper, we proposed a new method considering station hybrid influence and passenger flow to identify key stations in the whole bus network. This method aims to measure the influence of bus stations while combining the topological structure of the bus network and dynamic bus stations passenger flow. The influence of bus stations was calculated based on the local structure of the network, which refines from finding the shortest paths with high computational complexity. To evaluate the performance of the method, we used the efficiency of the network and vehicle average speed at the station to examine the accuracy. The results show that the new method can rank the influence of bus stations more accurately and more efficiently than other complex network methods such as degree, H‐index, and betweenness. On this basis, the key stations of the bus network of Beijing in China are identified out and the distribution characteristics of the key bus stations are analyzed.