bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lumbar intervertebral disc characterization through quantitative MRI analysis: An automatic voxel‐based relaxometry approach
Authors: Iriondo Claudia , Pedoia Valentina , Majumdar Sharmila
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To develop an automated pipeline based on convolutional neural networks to segment lumbar intervertebral discs and characterize their biochemical composition using voxel‐based relaxometry, and establish local associations with clinical measures of disability, muscle changes, and other symptoms of lower back pain.

Methods

This work proposes a new methodology using MRI (n = 31, across the spectrum of disc degeneration) that combines deep learning–based segmentation, atlas‐based registration, and statistical parametric mapping for voxel‐based analysis of T1ρ and T2 relaxation time maps to characterize disc degeneration and its associated disability.

Results

Across degenerative grades, the segmentation algorithm produced accurate, high‐confidence segmentations of the lumbar discs in two independent data sets. Manually and automatically extracted mean disc T1ρ and T2 relaxation times were in high agreement for all discs with minimal bias. On a voxel‐by‐voxel basis, imaging‐based degenerative grades were strongly negatively correlated with T1ρ and T2, particularly in the nucleus. Stratifying patients by disability grades revealed significant differences in the relaxation maps between minimal/moderate versus severe disability: The average T1ρ relaxation maps from the minimal/moderate disability group showed clear annulus nucleus distinction with a visible midline, whereas the severe disability group had lower average T1ρ values with a homogeneous distribution.

Conclusion

This work presented a scalable pipeline for fast, automated assessment of disc relaxation times, and voxel‐based relaxometry that overcomes limitations of current region of interest–based analysis methods and may enable greater insights and associations between disc degeneration, disability, and lower back pain.
An extended finite volume method and fixed‐stress approach for modeling fluid injection–induced tensile opening in fractured reservoirs
Authors: Deb Rajdeep , Jenny Patrick
Published: February 2020

Fluid injection–induced tensile opening is modeled using an extended finite volume method (XFVM). An embedded fracture strategy is used for the flow problem, that is, the fractures are discretized using finite volume segments without resolving the grid around them. Further, the discontinuities across fractures are modeled using special basis functions. The fracture openings due to enhanced fluid pressure and the associated shear slip due to traction free boundary condition on the fracture segments are both modeled using these special discontinuity basis functions. Mass transfer between fractures and matrix is modeled using the pressure difference. The enhancement of fracture storativity due to tensile opening leads to stronger coupling between flow and mechanics. An iterative scheme relying on the fixed‐stress approach for fractures, which conserves the stress dependent terms over each iteration of the flow problem, has been introduced. Tensile opening has been simulated for single fractures embedded in two‐ and three‐dimensional matrices. The convergence criterion for sequentially implicit fixed‐stress scheme for fractures embedded in elastic media is established and has been validated numerically. Further, for 2D simulations, the effect of the matrix permeability for fracture propagation due to tensile opening has been studied.
Dissipative filter design for discrete‐time interval type‐2 fuzzy singular systems with mixed delays
Authors: Li Jiangrong , Zhang Huayang , Feng Zhiguang , Zhao Yuxin , Shi Juan
Published: February 2020

In this article, the problem of delay‐dependent dissipative filter design is studied for discrete‐time interval type‐2 (IT‐2) fuzzy singular systems with both external disturbance and mixed delays. Two kinds of delays are considered, namely time‐varying discrete delays and infinite distributed delays. First, considering the uncertainties in the membership functions, the nonlinear singular system and the filter are modeled by the IT‐2 fuzzy systems. Then, based on new matrix inequalities dealing with the mixed delays, a new delay‐dependent criterion is proposed to ensure the IT‐2 fuzzy filtering error system is to be admissible with strictly dissipative performance. The filter parameters are characterised by the solution of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). The feasibility of these results are verified by a numerical example.
Antidepressant Target Dose Optimization and Control of Severe Asthma Exacerbations in Uninsured and Underinsured Patients with Anxiety and/or Depression
Authors: Shoair Osama A. , Cook Elizabeth A. , Shipman Denver , Dunn Rebecca L.
Published: February 2020

Background

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) are prevalent in patients with asthma. These disorders may increase asthma severity and decrease asthma control. No studies have evaluated the impact of achieving antidepressant target dose optimization compared with not achieving antidepressant target doses on asthma control in uninsured and underinsured patients.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of achieving antidepressant target dose optimization in uninsured and underinsured adult asthma patients with GAD and/or MDD on the risk of severe asthma exacerbations and number of asthma‐related outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of uninsured and underinsured adult asthma patients with GAD and/or MDD who have been initiated on a single antidepressant and maintained on a stable dose for 8 weeks (index date). Eligible patients were followed for 12–24 months after the index date and separated into those who achieved a target dose (target group) and those who did not (control group). Poisson regression was used to compare the risk of severe exacerbations, and analysis of covariance was used to compare the number of severe exacerbations and other asthma‐related outcomes between the target and control groups during the 1‐ and 2‐year post‐index periods.

Results

A total of 61 patients (24 in the target group and 37 in the control group) met inclusion criteria. The target group had a reduced risk of severe asthma exacerbations compared with the control group during the 1‐year post‐index (adjusted risk reduction [RR] 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.26–0.82) and 2‐year post‐index (adjusted RR 0.5, 95% CI 0.3–0.82) periods. The target group also experienced a lower number of severe asthma exacerbations and other asthma‐related outcomes during the 1‐ and 2‐year post‐index periods compared with the control group after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusions

Among uninsured and underinsured asthma patients with GAD and/or MDD who were initiated on a single antidepressant, those who were titrated to achieve target doses had a reduced risk of severe asthma exacerbations and a lower number of asthma‐related outcomes than those who were not optimized to achieve target doses.
Imipenem‐Cilastatin‐Relebactam: A Novel β‐Lactam–β‐Lactamase Inhibitor Combination for the Treatment of Multidrug‐Resistant Gram‐Negative Infections
Authors: Smith Jordan R. , Rybak Jeffrey M. , Claeys Kimberly C.
Published: February 2020

Imipenem‐cilastatin‐relebactam (IMI‐REL) is a novel β‐lactam–β‐lactamase inhibitor combination recently approved for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs) and complicated intraabdominal infections (cIAIs). Relebactam is a β‐lactamase inhibitor with the ability to inhibit a broad spectrum of β‐lactamases such as class A and class C β‐lactamases, including carbapenemases. The addition of relebactam to imipenem restores imipenem activity against several imipenem‐resistant bacteria, including Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Clinical data demonstrate that IMI‐REL is well tolerated and effective in the treatment of cUTIs and cIAIs due to imipenem‐resistant bacteria. In a phase III trial comparing IMI‐REL with imipenem plus colistin, favorable clinical response was achieved in 71% and 70% of patients, respectively. Available clinical and pharmacokinetic data support the approved dosage of a 30‐minute infusion of imipenem 500 mg–cilastatin 500 mg–relebactam 250 mg every 6 hours, along with dosage adjustments based on renal function. In this review, we describe the chemistry, mechanism of action, spectrum of activity, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and clinical efficacy, and safety and tolerability of this new agent. The approval of IMI‐REL represents another important step in the ongoing fight against multidrug‐resistant gram‐negative pathogens.
Evaluating the effectiveness of KooLKIDS: An interactive social emotional learning program for Australian primary school children
Authors: Carroll Annemaree , McCarthy Molly , Houghton Stephen , Sanders O'Connor Emma
Published: February 2020

The effectiveness of universal social emotional learning (SEL) programs are dependent on the incorporation of best practice principles, including an evaluative component. In the present study, the effects of a best practice, teacher‐led SEL program was examined with 854 children aged 8–12 years. KooLKIDS uses an interactive multimedia format and animated character to help children develop their emotion regulation capacities, social and friendship skills, empathy and compassion for others, and self‐esteem. A quasi‐experimental waitlist‐control design was used to examine the impact of KooLKIDS on social and emotional competence, behavioral and emotional problems, academic achievement and effort. Hierarchical linear modeling demonstrated significant increases in social and emotional competence, and reductions in internalizing and externalizing problems in children post KooLKIDS program in the intervention group. The findings suggest that KooLKIDS has strong potential as a teacher‐led, classroom‐based, structured program for enhancing children's social and emotional learning.
Machine Learning in Mass Spectrometric Analysis of DIA Data
Authors: Xu Leon L. , Young Adamo , Zhou Audrina , Röst Hannes L.
Published: February 2020

Liquid Chromatography coupled to Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) based methods are currently the top choice for high‐throughput, quantitative measurements of the proteome. While traditional proteomics LC‐MS/MS methods can suffer from issues such as low reproducibility and quantitative accuracy due to its stochastic nature, recent improvements in acquisition protocols have resulted in methods that can overcome these challenges. Data‐independent acquisition (DIA) is a novel mass spectrometric method that does so by using a deterministic acquisition strategy. These new approaches will allow researchers to apply MS on more complex samples, however, existing heuristic and expert‐knowledge based methods will struggle with keeping pace of the increasing complexity of the resulting data. Deep learning (DL) based methods have been shown to be more adept at handling large amounts of complex data than traditional methods in many other fields, such as computer vision and natural language processing. Proteomics is also entering a phase where the size and complexity of the data will require us to look towards scalable and data‐driven DL pipelines.
Keto‐coumarin scaffold for photoinitiators for 3D printing and photocomposites
Authors: Abdallah Mira , Dumur Frédéric , Hijazi Akram , Rodeghiero Giacomo , Gualandi Andrea , Cozzi Pier G. , Lalevée Jacques
Published: February 2020

The purposes of this paper are moving toward (a) the development of a new series of photoinitiators (PIs) which are based on the keto‐coumarin (KC) core, (b) the introduction of light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) as inexpensive and safe sources of irradiation, (c) the study of the photochemical mechanisms through which the new PIs react using different techniques such as Fourier transform infrared, UV–visible or fluorescence spectroscopy, and so on, (d) the use of such compounds (presenting good reactivity and excellent photopolymerization initiating abilities) for two specific and high added value applications: 3D printing (@405 nm) and preparation of thick glass fiber photocomposites with excellent depth of cure, and finally (e) the comparison of the performance of these KC derivatives versus other synthesized coumarin derivatives. In this study, six well‐designed KC derivatives (KC‐C, KC‐D, KC‐E, KC‐F, KC‐G, and KC‐H) are examined as high‐performance visible‐light PIs for the cationic polymerization of epoxides as well as the free‐radical polymerization of acrylates upon irradiation with LED@405 nm. Excellent polymerization rates are obtained using two different approaches: a photo‐oxidation process in combination with an iodonium (Iod) salt and a photo‐reduction process when associated with an amine (N‐phenylglycine or ethyl 4‐(dimethylamino)benzoate). High final reactive conversions were obtained. A full picture of the involved photochemical mechanisms is provided.
Mismatch between subjective and objective motor improvements with adapted tango intervention in older adults
Authors: Bennett Crystal G. , Angel Nathalie , Hackney Madeleine E.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between objective and subjective findings of motor function measures in older adults following a 12‐week adapted tango intervention.

Methods

A quasi‐experimental repeated‐measures design was used. Secondary analysis of the experimental group (Tango) data is reported here. The study took place in diverse senior independent living communities in an urban metropolitan area. Sixty‐two older adults participated (n = 62, age: M = 82.3, SD = 8.8 years). Participants were assigned to 20 sessions of 90‐min tango classes over 12 weeks. Motor function, depression, mental, and physical quality of life were measured before and after intervention. At post‐test, satisfaction and subjective measures of motor function were assessed by participants indicating their level of agreement with statements that they improved in objective domains of motor function. Correlations were performed between subjectively rated agreement and changes in motor function, depression, and quality of life.

Results

A strong negative correlation was found between subjective ratings and empirically observed improvements in balance (r = −.423) and endurance (r = −.241), although participant ratings correlated moderately with manual dual tasking (r = .319) and weakly correlated with lower body strength (r = .188). Decreased depression was correlated with subjectively improved lower body strength (r = .271) and endurance (r = .254). Improved mental quality of life was strongly (r = .423) correlated with subjectively improved balance and moderately correlated with improved manual dual tasking (r = .306).

Conclusion

After rehabilitation, even with improved depression and quality of life, older adults may not perceive empirically observed motor function improvements, particularly in balance and lower body strength. This study informs clinicians on the importance of assessing subjective data during rehabilitation to provide older adults with person‐centred care.
Bioactivities of synthetic salicylate‐substituted carboxyl (E)‐β‐Farnesene derivatives as ecofriendly agrochemicals and their binding mechanism with potential targets in aphid olfactory system
Authors: Qin Yao‐Guo , Yang Zhao‐Kai , Song Dun‐Lun , Wang Qian , Gu Shao‐Hua , Li Wen‐Hao , Duan Hong‐Xia , Zhou Jing‐Jiang , Yang Xin‐Ling
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

The aphid alarm pheromone, (E)‐β‐farnesene (EβF), is a natural product secreted from the aphid cornicle as a signal to warn companions of danger. Odorant binding proteins (OBPs) are the vital targets in insect signal transduction pathways. To improve bioactivity of EβF as more economic and stable aphid control agents, EβF derivatives containing an active substructure, salicylic acid moiety, were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their bioactivities in a structure–function study under laboratory conditions.

RESULTS

EβF derivatives, (E)‐3,7‐dimethylocta‐2,6‐dien‐1‐yl‐2‐hydroxy‐3‐methylbenzoate and (E)‐3,7‐dimethylocta‐2,6‐dien‐1‐yl‐2‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzoate showed outstanding aphid‐repellent activity at a dose of 5 μg against Acyrthosiphon pisum (repellency proportions of 67.3% and 71.2%, respectively) and Myzus persicae (repellency proportions of 80.0% and 74.4%, respectively) in laboratory. EβF and most of its derivatives bound strongly to ApisOBP9 with a higher affinity than those of the reported potential targets AphisOBP3 and ApisOBP7. The binding affinities to these three ApisOBPs were generally consistent with the in vivo aphid‐repellent activity. A molecular docking study suggested that the hydrophobic effect was crucial for the interactions between the derivatives and the OBPs.

CONCLUSION

New EβF derivatives containing salicylic acid moiety and their repellent activity, binding mechanism with three potential OBPs are presented. A new OBP, ApisOBP9, was characterized as a potential EβF and EβF derivatives binding protein for the first time. The hydrophobic nature of these analogues is responsible for their activity. Two analogues 3b and 3e with outstanding aphid‐repellent activity could be new leads for aphid control agents.
Nanomaterial‐wrapped dsCYP15C1, a potential RNAi‐based strategy for pest control against Chilo suppressalis
Authors: Sun Yajie , Wang Peipei , Abouzaid Mostafa , Zhou Hao , Liu Hui , Yang Pan , Lin Yongjun , Hull J Joe , Ma Weihua
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Although the utility of double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA)‐mediated knockdown as an environmentally friendly pest management strategy has gained traction in recent years, its overall efficacy has been limited by poor stability and limited cellular uptake. Encapsulation of dsRNAs with various nanomaterials, however, has shown promise in overcoming these limitations. This study sought to investigate the biological efficacy of an oral dsRNA nanomaterial mixture targeting the CYP15C1 gene product in the economically important rice pest, Chilo suppressalis.

RESULTS

A putative CYP15C1 ortholog was cloned from C. suppressalis midguts. The transcript is downregulated in fifth‐instar larvae and is most highly expressed in heads. RNA interference (RNAi)‐mediated knockdown of CsCYP15C1 was associated with significantly increased mortality. More importantly, feeding a dsRNA–nanomaterial mixture significantly increased larval mortality compared with feeding dsRNA alone.

CONCLUSION

A critical role for CsCYP15C1 function in molting is supported by sequence similarity with known juvenile hormone epoxidases, its expression profile, and abnormal molting phenotypes associated with RNA‐mediated knockdown. CsCYP15C1 is thus a prime target for controlling C. suppressalis. Furthermore, RNAi‐mediated characterization of candidate gene function can be enhanced by incorporating an enveloping nanomaterial. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Arrays of Ni/Co Nanoparticles within a Nanostructured Silicon Host
Authors: Rumpf Klemens , Granitzer Petra , Gonzalez-Rodriguez Roberto , Coffer Jeffery , Reissner Michael
Published: February 2020

Herein, nanostructured silicon is fabricated with two different embedded magnetic nanostructures (Ni/Co) to exploit the magnetic properties of both metals and discern the behavior of the exchange coupling between the two—especially with respect to their volume ratio. A variation of the size as well as the volume ratio of the two metals modifies the exchange coupling and thus the energy product. Two templates are utilized: one involves the use of porous silicon (PSi) and the other entails porous silicon nanotubes (SiNTs). In the case of Psi, the bimetallic structures (Ni/Co) are electrodeposited, whereas in the case of SiNTs, Co is chemically grown within the tubes followed by the deposition of Ni on the outside. The magnetic properties of the systems strongly depend on the geometry of the deposits, on the volume ratio of the two metals, as well as on the proximity of the deposits. If the distance is small enough magnetic exchange coupling is present. Due to their size and the coupling of the bimetallic structures, the switching behavior of the hysteresis can be varied. Ultimately, nanocomposites with an energy product as high as possible is achieved to give rise to applications as permanent nanomagnets.
START: single‐to‐double arm transition design for phase II clinical trials
Authors: Shi Haolun , Zhang Teng , Yin Guosheng
Published: February 2020

Phase II clinical trials designed for evaluating a drug's treatment effect can be either single‐arm or double‐arm. A single‐arm design tests the null hypothesis that the response rate of a new drug is lower than a fixed threshold, whereas a double‐arm scheme takes a more objective comparison of the response rate between the new treatment and the standard of care through randomization. Although the randomized design is the gold standard for efficacy assessment, various situations may arise where a single‐arm pilot study prior to a randomized trial is necessary. To combine the single‐ and double‐arm phases and pool the information together for better decision making, we propose a Single‐To‐double ARm Transition design (START) with switching hypotheses tests, where the first stage compares the new drug's response rate with a minimum required level and imposes a continuation criterion, and the second stage utilizes randomization to determine the treatment's superiority. We develop a software package in R to calibrate the frequentist error rates and perform simulation studies to assess the trial characteristics. Finally, a metastatic pancreatic cancer trial is used for illustrating the decision rules under the proposed START design.
Bioinspired oxidation in cytochrome P450 of isomers orientin and isoorientin using Salen complexes
Authors: Chagas Mariane B. , Pontes Daniel O.B. , Albino Allan V.D. , Ferreira Emanuel J. , Alves Jovelina S.F. , Paiva Anallicy S. , Pontes Daniel L. , Langansser Silvana M.Z. , Ferreira Leandro S.
Published: February 2020

Rationale

Orientin and isoorientin are C‐glycosidic flavonoids, considered as markers of some plant species such as Passiflora edulis var. flavicarpa Degener, and reported in the literature to have pharmacological properties. In order to evaluate and characterize the in vitro metabolism of these flavonoids, phase I biotransformation reactions were simulated using Salen complexes.

Methods

These flavonoids were oxidized separately in biomimetic reactions in different proportions, using one oxidant, m‐chloroperbenzoic acid or iodosylbenzene, and one catalyst, the Jacobsen catalyst or [Mn(3‐MeOSalen)Cl]. The [Mn(3‐MeOSalen)Cl] catalyst was synthesized and characterized using spectrometric techniques. The oxidation potentials of the catalysts were compared. All reactions were monitored and analyzed using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography diode‐array detection (UHPLC‐DAD) and high‐performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS).

Results

The analysis by UHPLC‐DAD and HPLC/MS/MS showed that isoorientin produces more products than orientin and that [Mn(3‐MeOSalen)Cl] produces more products than the Jacobsen catalyst. In addition, [Mn(3‐MeOSalen)Cl], which has a higher oxidation potential, formed products with the addition of one or two atoms of oxygen, while the Jacobsen catalyst formed compounds with only one added oxygen atom. The products with the addition of one oxygen atom were mainly epoxides, while those with two added oxygens formed an epoxide in the C‐ring and incorporated the other oxygen into the glycosidic moiety.

Conclusions

The formation of epoxides is common in biomimetic reactions and they may represent a safety risk in medicinal products due to their high reactivity. This study may serve as a basis for subsequent pharmacological and toxicological studies that investigate the presence of these compounds as phase I metabolites, and ensure the safe use of plant products containing orientin as a chemical marker.
Wood availability and habitat heterogeneity drive spatiotemporal habitat use by riverine cyprinids under flow intermittence
Authors: Kalogianni Eleni , Vardakas Leonidas , Vourka Aikaterini , Koutsikos Nicholas , Theodoropoulos Christos , Galia Tomas , Skoulikidis Nikolaos
Published: February 2020

Interspecies and intraspecies variation in the use of wooded habitats has been studied for salmonids, but little is known about nonsalmonid species. In this study, we explored spatiotemporal differences in the distribution of three cyprinid species at habitats of varying wood density and at habitats of varying heterogeneity in a Mediterranean intermittent river (Evrotas, southern Greece). Hydroecological data from 843 microhabitats across four sites and in five sampling periods were collected and analysed using generalized linear mixed effects models. Adult chubs, minnowroaches, and minnows and, to a lesser degree, juvenile chubs, preferred complex, wooded habitats, characterized by lower flow velocities, higher water depths, finer substrate, and increased canopy cover, compared with wood‐free and noncomplex habitats. At the advanced stage of the dry period, the deeper, wooded habitats served as drought refugia; all fish groups, except for the adult chub, resorted to these habitats during autumn. In contrast, no such shifts were evident in early summer at the onset of the dry period. In late spring, all fish groups had higher densities at wooded habitats, a shift probably associated with reproduction. Wood density did not affect fish habitat use, as fish densities were similar across wooded habitats. In contrast, habitat heterogeneity significantly affected fish densities; more adult chubs and minnows were observed in complex habitats, whereas juvenile chubs and minnowroaches clearly preferred less complex habitats. We conclude that the targeted maintenance of instream wood structures to ensure habitat heterogeneity is a key‐action for the successful conservation of riverine fish populations.
Tailoring Perovskite Adjacent Interfaces by Conjugated Polyelectrolyte for Stable and Efficient Solar Cells
Authors: Li Bowei , Xiang Yuren , Jayawardena K. D. G. Imalka , Luo Deying , Watts John F. , Hinder Steven , Li Hui , Ferguson Victoria , Luo Haitian , Zhu Rui , Silva S. Ravi P. , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2020

Interface engineering is an effective means to enhance the performance of thin‐film devices, such as perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, a conjugated polyelectrolyte, poly[(9,9‐bis(3′‐((N,N‐dimethyl)‐N‐ethyl‐ammonium)‐propyl)‐2,7‐fluorene)‐alt‐2,7‐(9,9‐dioctylfluorene)]di‐iodide (PFN‐I), is used at the interfaces between the hole transport layer (HTL)/perovskite and perovskite/electron transport layer simultaneously, to enhance the device power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability. The fabricated PSCs with an inverted planar heterojunction structure show improved open‐circuit voltage (Voc), short‐circuit current density (Jsc), and fill factor, resulting in PCEs up to 20.56%. The devices maintain over 80% of their initial PCEs after 800 h of exposure to a relative humidity 35–55% at room temperature. All of these improvements are attributed to the functional PFN‐I layers as they provide favorable interface contact and defect reduction.
α‐Lipoic acid protects against microcystin‐LR induced hepatotoxicity through regeneration of glutathione via activation of Nrf2
Authors: Gu Lihong , Li Shangchun , Bai Jun , Zhang Qingbi , Han Zhixia
Published: February 2020

Microcystins (MCs), as the most dominant bloom‐forming strains in eutrophic surface water, can induce hepatotoxicity by oxidative stress. Alpha‐lipoic acid (α‐LA) is a super antioxidant that can induce the synthesis of antioxidants, such as glutathione (GSH), by nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2). However, the potential molecular mechanism of α‐LA regeneration of GSH remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate whether α‐LA could reduce the toxicity of MCs induced in human hepatoma (HepG2), Bel7420 cells, and BALB/c mice by activating Nrf2 to regenerate GSH. Results showed that exposure to 10 μM microcystin‐leucine arginine (MC‐LR) reduced viability of HepG2 and Bel7402 cells and promoted the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared with untreated cells. Moreover, the protection of α‐LA included reducing the level of ROS, increasing superoxide dismutase activity, and decreasing malondialdehyde. Levels of reduced glutathione (rGSH) and rGSH/oxidized glutathione were significantly increased in cells cotreated with α‐LA and MC‐LR compared to those treated with MC‐LR alone, indicating an ability of α‐LA to attenuate oxidative stress and MC‐LR‐induced cytotoxicity by increasing the amount of rGSH. α‐LA can mediate GSH regeneration through the Nrf2 pathway under the action of glutathione reductase in MC‐LR cell lines. Furthermore, the data also showed that α‐LA‐induced cytoprotection against MC‐LR is associated with Nrf2 mediate pathway in vivo. These findings demonstrated the potential of α‐LA to resist MC‐LR‐induced oxidative damage of liver.
Protective effect of Diosmin against benzo(a)pyrene‐induced lung injury in Swiss Albino Mice
Authors: Islam Johirul , Shree Alpa , Afzal Shekh M. , Vafa Abul , Sultana Sarwat
Published: February 2020

Diosmin, a naturally occurring flavonoid commonly present in citrus fruit, is known to exhibit anti‐inflammatory, antimutagenic, antioxidant, and free radical scavenging as well as blood lipid lowering activities among others. Diosmin has also been used for the treatment of various diseases including diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease. Our study explores the role of Diosmin in pulmonary toxicity (lung injury) induced by environmental contaminant benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P]. Swiss Albino Mice (SAM) were administered with either Diosmin 100 or 200 mg/kg body weight daily for 14 days and then challenged with a single dose of B(a)P. On the 15th day, animals were sacrificed; lung tissues and blood were collected for molecular analysis. B(a)P administration in mice induced the thickening of lung epithelium, damaged alveolar architecture, and promoted inflammatory cell infiltration in the lung tissues. Also, B[a]P significantly increased the expression of NF‐kB, COX‐2, IL‐6, Bax, cleaved caspase 3, and cleaved PARP proteins and decreased antioxidant enzyme levels. Diosmin‐100 and Diosmin‐200 significantly attenuated the damage to lung epithelium, alveolar architecture, and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the lung tissues of mice. Diosmin significantly (P < .05) attenuated the levels of oxidative stress markers: lactate dehydrogenase and xanthine oxidase. A decrease in expression of NF‐kB, COX‐2, IL‐6, Bax, cleaved caspase 3, and cleaved PARP proteins in mice was challenged with B[a]P. Diosmin thus could be a promising therapeutic adjuvant against B[a]P‐induced oxidative stress and lung damage.
Cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of ethanolic propolis extract on C6 glioma cells
Authors: Coskun Zeynep M. , Ersoz Melike , Gecili Melike , Ozden Aytek , Acar Aynur
Published: February 2020

Propolis is a natural resinous substance obtained from beehives, and emerging evidence supports that it has antitumor, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. The aim of the study is to examine the cytotoxic, antioxidant, and apoptotic features of ethanolic propolis extract (PE) on C6 glioma cells. The cells were treated with ethanolic PE at various concentrations for 24 hours, after which the total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status; malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl, 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine, and glutathione (GSH) levels; Cu/Zn‐superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn‐SOD) activity; and apoptotic markers were measured. Ethanolic PE at 100, 250, and 500 μg/mL concentrations showed optimal activity on C6 glioma cells. TAS and GSH levels were significantly increased in C6 glioma cells treated with 100 and 500 μg/mL PE compared to control cells (P < .05). Similarly, the activity of Cu/Zn‐SOD was higher in C6 glioma cells treated with 250 or 500 μg/mL ethanolic PE compared to control cells (P < .05), as was the caspase‐3 mRNA expression level. The highest levels of caspase‐8 and ‐9 expression were in C6 glioma cells treated with 500 μg/mL PE. Collectively, our results indicate that ethanolic PE has cytotoxic and apoptotic effects on C6 glioma cells. Furthermore, it may provide a protective role in the antioxidant defense system. PE shows potential for development as a natural antioxidant and apoptotic agent for the treatment of brain tumors.
Cardiac protection of Bauhinia championii against reperfusion injury
Authors: Chen Yun‐Fang , Chen Wei‐Yu , Chung Ching‐Hu , Kuo Chao‐Lin , Lee An‐Sheng
Published: February 2020

This study aims to investigate the protective effects of the Bauhinia championii (BC) against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)‐induced injury in an isolated heart model. Langendorff‐perfused C57BL/6JNarl mice hearts were performed with 30 minutes ischemia and 60 minutes reperfusion by left anterior descending artery ligation. Before reperfusion, boiling water extracts of BC (10 mg/L) was pretreated for 15 minutes. During reperfusion, BC significantly decreased the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias by lead II electrocardiogram (ECG). Electrophysiological effect of BC was further determined in isolated ventricular myocytes by whole‐cell patch clamp technique. The underlying mechanism may result from its Na+ channel blocking activity characterized with reduced rise slope of action potential and Na+ current density. Moreover, BC dramatically reduced I/R‐caused infarct size, which was accessed by 2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) assay. Since BC decreased I/R‐induced myoglobin release and oxidation of Ca2+‐calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase, inhibition of myocardial necroptosis may account for the protective effects of BC on myocytes lose. This study indicated that BC may prevent I/R induced ventricular arrhythmias and myocyte death by blocking Na+ channels and decreasing necroptosis, respectively. Since most of the available antiarrhythmic remedies have unwanted adverse actions, BC could be a novel candidate for the treatment of myocardial infarction and ventricular arrhythmia.
The Wickerhamiella/Starmerella clade—A treasure trove for the study of the evolution of yeast metabolism
Authors: Gonçalves Paula , Gonçalves Carla , Brito Patrícia H. , Sampaio José Paulo
Published: February 2020

The Wickerhamiella and Starmerella genera form a clade (W/S clade) that branches close to Yarrowia lipolytica in the Saccharomycotina species tree. It comprises approximately 90 recognized species and 50 putative new species not formally described yet. The large majority of the members of the W/S clade are ecologically associated with flowers and floricolous insects. Many species exhibit unusual metabolic traits, like fructophily and the production of sophorolipids, which are glycolipids that can be used as environmentally friendly biosurfactants. Genomic data have not only firmly established the W/S clade but have also revealed a tumultuous evolution of metabolism marked by losses and gains of important metabolic pathways, among which alcoholic fermentation. Possibly the most surprising finding brought to light by comparative genomics concerned the large number of genes acquired by some species of the W/S clade from bacteria through horizontal gene transfer, many of which were shown to be functional in their new setting. This was facilitated by the genetic tractability of one species in the clade, Starmerella bombicola, which is used for the industrial production of sophorolipids. We suggest that high‐density coverage of genome sequencing in this clade, combined with the possibility to conduct molecular genetics experiments in at least one species, has the potential to set the stage for yet more exciting discoveries concerning the evolution of yeast metabolism.
Mirror symmetry and line operators
Authors: Dimofte Tudor , Garner Niklas , Geracie Michael , Hilburn Justin
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We study half-BPS line operators in 3d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 gauge theories, focusing in particular on the algebras of local operators at their junctions. It is known that there are two basic types of such line operators, distinguished by the SUSY subalgebras that they preserve; the two types can roughly be called “Wilson lines” and “vortex lines,” and are exchanged under 3d mirror symmetry. We describe a large class of vortex lines that can be characterized by basic algebraic data, and propose a mathematical scheme to compute the algebras of local operators at their junctions — including monopole operators — in terms of this data. The computation generalizes mathematical and physical definitions/analyses of the bulk Coulomb-branch chiral ring. We fully classify the junctions of half-BPS Wilson lines and of half-BPS vortex lines in abelian gauge theories with sufficient matter. We also test our computational scheme in a non-abelian quiver gauge theory, using a 3d-mirror-map of line operators from work of Assel and Gomis.
Dark matter, dark radiation and gravitational waves from mirror Higgs parity
Authors: Dunsky David , Hall Lawrence J. , Harigaya Keisuke
Published: February 2020

An exact parity replicates the Standard Model giving a Mirror Standard Model, SM ↔ SM′. This “Higgs Parity” and the mirror electroweak symmetry are spontaneously broken by the mirror Higgs, 〈H′〉 = v′ ≫ 〈H〉, yielding the Standard Model Higgs as a Pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone Boson of an approximate SU (4) symmetry, with a quartic coupling λSM(v′) ∼ 10−3. Mirror electromagnetism is unbroken and dark matter is composed of e′ and $$ {\overline{e}}^{\prime } $$

e
¯

′

. Direct detection may be possible via the kinetic mixing portal, and in unified theories this rate is correlated with the proton decay rate. With a high reheat temperature after inflation, the et dark matter abundance is determined by freeze-out followed by dilution from decays of mirror neutrinos, ν′→ ℓH . Remarkably, this requires v′∼ (108–1010) GeV, predicting a Higgs mass of 123 ± 3 GeV at 1σ and a Standard Model neutrino mass of (10−2–10−1) eV, consistent with observed neutrino masses. The mirror QCD sector exhibits a first order phase transition producing gravitational waves that may be detected by future observations. Mirror glueballs decay to mirror photons giving dark radiation with ∆Neff∼ 0.03–0.4. With a low reheat temperature after inflation, the e′ dark matter abundance is determined by freeze-in from the SM sector by either the Higgs or kinetic mixing portal.
Integration-by-parts reductions of Feynman integrals using Singular and GPI-Space
Authors: Bendle Dominik , Böhm Janko , Decker Wolfram , Georgoudis Alessandro , Pfreundt Franz-Josef , Rahn Mirko , Wasser Pascal , Zhang Yang
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We introduce an algebro-geometrically motived integration-by-parts (IBP) re- duction method for multi-loop and multi-scale Feynman integrals, using a framework for massively parallel computations in computer algebra. This framework combines the com- puter algebra system Singular with the workflow management system GPI-Space, which are being developed at the TU Kaiserslautern and the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics (ITWM), respectively. In our approach, the IBP relations are first trimmed by modern tools from computational algebraic geometry and then solved by sparse linear algebra and our new interpolation method. Modelled in terms of Petri nets, these steps are efficiently automatized and automatically parallelized by GPI-Space. We demonstrate the potential of our method at the nontrivial example of reducing two-loop five-point non- planar double-pentagon integrals. We also use GPI-Space to convert the basis of IBP reductions, and discuss the possible simplification of master-integral coefficients in a uni- formly transcendental basis.
Late-time-accelerated expansion arisen from gauge fields in an anisotropic background and a fruitful trick for Noether’s approach
Authors: Tajahmad Behzad
Published: February 2020

Abstract

In this paper, a modified teleparallel gravity action containing a coupling be- tween a scalar field potential and magnetism, in anisotropic and homogeneous backgrounds, is investigated through Noether symmetry approach. The focus of this work is to describe late-time-accelerated expansion.

Since finding analytical solutions carrying all conserved currents emerged by Noether symmetry approach, is very difficult, hence regularly in the literature, the authors split the total symmetry into sub-symmetries and then select, usually, some of them to be carried by the solutions. This manner limits the forms of unknown functions obtained. However, in ref. [67], B.N.S. approach was proposed in order to solve such problems but its main motivation was carrying more conserved currents by solutions. In this paper, by eliminating the aforementioned limitation as much as possible, a trick leading to some graceful forms of unknown functions is suggested. Through this fruitful approach, the solutions may carry more conserved currents than usual ways and maybe new forms of symmetries. I named this new approach to be CSSS-trick (Combination of Sub-symmetries through Special Selections). With this approach, it is demonstrated that the unified dark matter potential is deduced by the gauge fields.

Utilizing the B-function method, a detailed data analysis of results obtained yielding perfect agreements with recent observational data are performed.

And finally, the Wheeler-De Witt (WDW) equation is discussed to demonstrate recov- ering the Hartle criterion due to the oscillating feature of the wave function of the universe.
Probing the C P nature of the top quark Yukawa at hadron colliders
Authors: Faroughy Darius A. , Kamenik Jernej F. , Košnik Nejc , Smolkovič Aleks
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We analyze the prospects of probing the C P -odd $$ i\tilde{\kappa}\overline{t}\gamma $$
i

κ
˜

t
¯

γ
5th interaction at the LHC and its projected upgrades, the high-luminosity and high-energy LHC, directly using associated on-shell Higgs boson and top quark or top quark pair production. To this end we first construct a C P -odd observable based on top quark polarization in Wb → th scattering with optimal linear sensitivity to $$ \tilde{\kappa} $$

κ
˜

. For the corresponding hadronic process pp → thj we present a method of extracting the phase-space dependent weight function that allows to retain close to optimal sensitivity to $$ \tilde{\kappa} $$

κ
˜

. We project future sensitivity to the signal in pp → t(→ ℓ𝜈b)h(→ b$$ \overline{b} $$

b
¯

)j. We also propose novel C P -odd observables for top quark pair production in association with the Higgs, pp → t$$ \overline{t} $$

t
¯

h, with semileptonically decaying tops and h → b$$ \overline{b} $$

b
¯

, that rely solely on measuring the momenta of leptons and b-jets from the decaying tops without having to distinguish the charge of the b-jets. Among the many possibilities we single out an observable that can potentially probe $$ \tilde{\kappa} $$

κ
˜

∼ 0.1 at the high-energy LHC with 2𝜎 confidence.
Source terms for electroweak baryogenesis in the vev-insertion approximation beyond leading order
Authors: Postma Marieke , van de Vis Jorinde
Published: February 2020

Abstract

In electroweak baryogenesis the baryon asymmetry of the universe is created during the electroweak phase transition. The quantum transport equations governing the dynamics of the plasma particles can be derived in the vev-insertion approximation, which treats the vev-dependent part of the particle masses as a perturbation. We calculate the next-to-leading order (NLO) contribution to the CP-violating source term and CP-conserving relaxation rate, corresponding to Feynman diagrams for the self-energies with four mass insertions. We consider both a pair of Weyl fermions and a pair of complex scalars, that scatter off the bubble wall. We find: (i) The NLO correction becomes large for $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(1) couplings. If only the Standard Model (SM) Higgs obtains a vev during the phase transition, this implies the vev-insertion approximation breaks down for top quarks. (ii) The resonant enhancement of the source term and relaxation rate, that exists at leading order in the limit of degenerate thermal masses for the fermions/scalars, persists at NLO.
Experimental analysis of the forming behavior of ash wood veneer with nonwoven backings
Authors: Zerbst David , Affronti Emanuela , Gereke Thomas , Buchelt Beate , Clauß Sebastian , Merklein Marion , Cherif Chokri
Published: February 2020

In the present study, the forming behavior of veneer with nonwoven backings was analyzed. The paper contributes to the lack of data on numerical predictions of the formability of veneers for the manufacturing of automotive trim parts. Tensile and shear tests were carried out at normal climate conditions and after water immersion to obtain material parameters for a transverse isotropic material description. The Tsai Wu failure criterion was applied to the estimation of strength under different stress combinations. Analysis of the directional deep drawing capacity of the veneer laminate was done by the Nakajima test. Stress states from biaxial to uniaxial were induced into the material depending on the geometry of the sample. Strains were evaluated locally until material failure using the digital image correlation method. Major strain was defined in the direction perpendicular to the grain. Increasing major strain was found from biaxial to uniaxial stress states. Highest strain limits were found for wet veneers tested with heated forming tools. Cracks occurred in the early wood zone for all geometries and propagated in the direction parallel to the grain. Generally, the Nakajima test is suitable for the evaluation of the formability of veneer laminate sheets. The presented data and, in general, the suggested experimental program can be used for the development and validation of veneer laminate material models for forming simulations.
Anterior cruciate ligament—return to sport after injury scale: validation of the Norwegian language version
Authors: Faleide Anne Gro Heyn , Inderhaug Eivind , Vervaat Willemijn , Breivik Kyrre , Bogen Bård Erik , Mo Ingunn Fleten , Trøan Ingrid , Strand Torbjørn , Magnussen Liv Heide
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Evidence is emerging on the importance of psychological readiness to return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The ACL-Return to Sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI) is developed to assess this. The aim of the current study was to translate ACL-RSI into Norwegian and examine the measurement properties of the Norwegian version (ACL-RSI-No).

Methods

ACL-RSI was translated according to international guidelines. A cohort of 197 ACL-reconstructed patients completed ACL-RSI-No and related questionnaires nine months post-surgery. One hundred and forty-six patients completed hop tests and 142 patients completed strength tests. Face and structural validity (confirmative factor analysis and explorative analyses), internal consistency [Cronbach’s alpha (α)], test–retest reliability [Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC)], measurement error [Standard error of measurement (SEM) and smallest detectable change at individual (SDCind) and group level (SDCgroup)] and construct validity (hypotheses testing; independentttests, Pearson’sr) were examined.

Results

ACL-RSI-No had good face validity. Factor analyses suggested that the use of a sum score is reasonable. Internal consistency and test–retest reliability were good (α 0.95, ICC 0.94 (95% CI 0.84–0.97) and measurement error low (SEM 5.7). SDCindwas 15.8 points and SDCgroupwas 2.0. Six of seven hypotheses were confirmed.

Conclusions

ACL-RSI-No displayed good measurement properties. Factor analyses suggested one underlying explanatory factor for “psychological readiness”—supporting the use of a single sum score. ACL-RSI-No can be used in the evaluation of psychological readiness to return to sport after ACL injury.

Level of evidence

III.