bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on potential biomarkers of energy metabolism‐related to early‐stage Yin‐deficiency‐heat syndrome based on metabolomics and transcriptomics
Authors: Gan Lin , Jiang Ting‐Ting , Yi Wen‐Jing , Lu Ren , Xu Fang‐Yan , Liu Chang‐Ming , Li Zhi‐Bin , Han Yu‐Shuai , Hu Yu‐Ting , Chen Jing , Tu Hui‐Hui , Huang Huai , Li Ji‐Cheng
Published: January 2020

Yin‐deficiency‐heat (YDH) syndrome is a common sub‐health state of the human body in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, due to the lack of objective quantitative diagnostic indicators, patients with early‐stage YDH syndrome cannot be treated in time and can develop a pathological (disease) state. Therefore, it is necessary to apply modern diagnostic techniques in order to identify the biological markers for the diagnosis of early‐stage YDH syndrome. In the present study, we performed Solexa sequencing and non‐targeted metabolomics analysis using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry to screen differentially expressed mRNAs and differential metabolites in individuals with early‐stage YDH syndrome and healthy controls. Bioinformatics methods were used to perform enrichment analysis of differentially expressed mRNAs and differential metabolites for biological functions and signaling pathways. Furthermore, we found that differentially expressed mRNAs and differential metabolites were related to energy metabolism. Real‐time PCR was used to validate the mRNA expression in the serum of subjects with early‐stage YDH syndrome. We found that the mitochondrially encoded NADH dehydrogenase 2 (MT‐ND2) mRNA was differentially expressed in the serum of individuals with early‐stage YDH syndrome. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the efficacy of the diagnostic model based on eight differential metabolites. We combined the three metabolites such as Glycine, Sphingomyelin, and Isocitrate to establish the diagnostic model with a sensitivity of 0.853 and a specificity of 0.800. The combination of the above three metabolites may serve as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of early‐stage YDH syndrome. Our study reveals potential biomarker for the diagnosis of early‐stage YDH syndrome and also provides a new method for the quantification and objectification of TCM syndromes.
The Relationship Between Sensory Reactivity Differences and Anxiety Subtypes in Autistic Children
Authors: MacLennan Keren , Roach Lauren , Tavassoli Teresa
Published: January 2020

Autistic children are at greater risk of developing anxiety than their nonautistic peers. Sensory reactivity differences have been implicated as one of the risk factors. Specifically, sensory hyperreactivity has previously been linked to anxiety, including separation anxiety and specific phobia; however, minimal research has explored the influence of sensory hyporeactivity and seeking. Therefore, the present study examined the correlational relationship between sensory reactivity differences and anxiety subtypes in 41 autistic children aged between 3 and 14 years, using parent‐ and self‐reported measures. We found positive correlations between sensory hyperreactivity and total anxiety, separation anxiety and physical injury fears. However, when controlling for autism traits, we found sensory hyperreactivity to be related to physical injury fears and specific phobia, and sensory hyporeactivity to be related to lower total and social anxiety. We found no significant relationships between sensory seeking and anxiety. These results indicate that sensory hyperreactivity and hyporeactivity might be implicated in specific anxiety symptomology. Our results also indicate minimal agreement between parent‐ and self‐reported anxieties, which highlights the limitations of informant reports for anxiety and the pressing need for objective anxiety assessments for autistic children to be developed. Our findings have important implications for limiting the development of anxiety in autistic children and suggest that sensory reactivity differences should be considered when developing targeted interventions for certain anxiety disorders. Autism Res 2020, 13: 785–795. © 2019 The Authors. Autism Research published by International Society for Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

The present study found that when considering autism traits, greater sensory hyperreactivity, such as being oversensitive to sounds, was related to elevated phobia‐related symptoms and sensory hyporeactivity, such as being under‐responsive to touch, was related to lower total and social anxieties. Sensory seeking, such as a fascination with lights, was not related to anxiety. Our results have important implications for targeted anxiety interventions for autistic children. However, due to minimal agreement between the parent‐ and child‐reported scores, developing more objective measures of anxiety would be beneficial.
Solvent‐dependent ultrafast optical response of conjugated push–pull chromophores
Authors: Chen Ying , Lu Ran , Wang WenYan , Wang Quan , Chi Xiao‐Chun , Zhang Han‐Zhuang
Published: January 2020

Two new difluoroboron β‐carbonyl cyclic ketonate complexes C2B and DC2B were investigated using several spectroscopic methods. Relative to the absorption spectra, the fluorescence spectra were more affected by the polarity of the solvent. Also, compound C2B showed a more pronounced Stokes’ shift after solvent polarity increased. Transient absorption measurements then demonstrated the relaxation behaviour of the excited state compound molecule. The kinetic results showed that the excited state C2B in tetrahydrofuran (THF) can return from the intramolecular charge‐transfer (ICT) state and the initial excited state to the ground state. The kinetic relaxation pathway after THF was replaced by dimethyl sulfoxide became single. When the carbazole unit was introduced, DC2B also exhibited an ICT state but there was no significant difference in the excited state relaxation path after solvent polarity was changed. The results indicated that C2B is more susceptible to solvent polarity regulation. The global fit results revealed that an increase in the solvent polarity prolonged the lifetime of the ICT state of compound C2B and had the opposite effect on compound DC2B. These results provide guidance for understanding the relationship between solvent polarity and the designing and synthesizing advanced compound materials.
Epidemiological evidence for associations between variants in microRNA or biosynthesis genes and lung cancer risk
Authors: Liu Guanchu , Tian Jie , Zuo Chunjian , Li Yufu , Fu Kui , Chen Huanwen
Published: January 2020

In the past decade, the studies involving single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in microRNAs (miRNAs) with lung cancer (LC) risk have been performed, however, these results are inconsistent, and a systematic research synopsis has not been performed yet. Therefore, we attempted to perform comprehensive meta‐analyses to assess the relationships between SNPs in miRNAs or biosynthesis genes and LC risk and further evaluate the epidemiological credibility of these significant associations. We used PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science to search for relevant articles published before 30 May 2019 that assessed relationships between SNPs in miRNAs or biosynthesis genes and LC risk. The cumulative epidemiological evidence of statistical relationships was further assessed combining Venice Criteria and a false‐positive report probability test. Based on 20 publications with 15 969 cases and 17 174 controls, we found that six variants in miRNAs or biosynthesis genes that proved significant associations with LC risk, whereas five proved no association. Subgroup analyses by ethnicity and genetic models were performed, suggesting that four associations were rated as demonstrating strong evidence of relationship with LC risk, including miRNA‐146a rs2910164 in all populations under dominant model and in Asians under dominant and recessive models, and AGO1 rs595961 in Asians under allelic model. Three associations were graded as moderate, and seven associations were rated as weak. This study presents the relationships between SNPs in miRNAs or biosynthesis genes and LC risk, subsequently demonstrates the credibility of these significant associations, and highlights the role in the pathogenesis of LC.
Chemical Constituents and Bioactivities of Starfishes: An Update
Authors: Xia Jin‐Mei , Miao Zi , Xie Chun‐Lan , Zhang Ji‐Wei , Yang Xian‐Wen
Published: January 2020

Starfishes produce various structurally unique secondary metabolites with diverse biological activities. This review is an update summary of the new compounds and their bioactivities from starfish (the Asteroidea Class) with 71 references covering from January 2007 to December 2018. During this period, 216 new compounds were obtained from 36 species. The chemical constituents are mostly steroids, steroidal glycosides, and gangliosides. These components have been found to possess various bioactivities, including anticancer, anti‐inflammation, etc.
Beyond Artificial Photosynthesis: Prospects on Photobiorefinery
Authors: Butburee Teera , Chakthranont Pongkarn , Phawa Chaiyasit , Faungnawakij Kajornsak
Published: January 2020

Artificial photosynthesis (AP) technology which integrates solar energy harvesting and chemical conversion process into one device is a promising solution to both global energy and environmental crises. Despite decades of research, AP for solar hydrogen production and CO2reduction remains in the technological infancy. The low profit margins of the targeted products, the highly energy‐intensive process, and the engineering impracticality have kept AP technology in the laboratory demonstration stage. Photobiorefinery, a photocatalytic process for biomass valorization, has emerged as a new promising application for AP technology. This process offers high‐value products, requires less energy, and potentially could utilize AP process to enhance selectivity. In this Minireview, the recent progress in photocatalytic biomass depolymerization, partial oxidation, hydrogenolysis, and hydrogenation are featured. Challenges and prospects of the photocatalytic biomass valorization towards commercialization are also discussed.
Corporate social responsibility penetration, explicitness, and symbolic communication practices in Asia: A national business system exploration of leading firms in sustainability
Authors: Conte Francesca , Vollero Agostino , Covucci Claudia , Siano Alfonso
Published: January 2020

The study explores whether the penetration, explicitness, and symbolic corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication practices of organizations are associated with the characteristics of the countries to which they belong. By focusing on the national business systems (NBSs) of Asian countries, the study analyzes the websites of companies based in Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mainland China, and Hong Kong, to address strategic‐operational (penetration), discretionary‐non‐discretionary (explicitness), and substantial‐symbolic (symbolic practices) dimensions of CSR communication. The findings suggest that online CSR communication in Asian mirrors national business profiles. In particular, CSR penetration and explicitness in companies located in different Asian countries vary, whereas CSR symbolic communication does not appear to be related to the specifics of each NBS. The research extends the understanding of CSR communication in Asia based on the NBS theory. The findings can indicate to Asian managers how they can make CSR communication more effective, in terms of penetration and explicitness, and how to avoid symbolic CSR practices.
Aqueous Biphasic Systems Containing Customizable Poly(Ionic Liquid)s for Highly Efficient Extractions
Authors: Ke Yuqi , Zhang Jingzhu , Xie Yuanbang , Yang Qiwei , Ren Qilong , Xing Huabin
Published: January 2020

Ionic liquid (IL)‐based aqueous biphasic systems (ABSs) provide a sustainable and efficient alternative to conventional liquid–liquid extraction techniques and can be used for the extraction, recovery, and purification of diverse solutes. However, the construction of a high‐performance ABS that has both excellent phase separation ability and extraction performance remains challenging. This study concerns the preparation of a family of novel ABSs based on poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs) with customized structure and controllable molecular weight for the extraction of bioactive compounds. Several tailor‐made PILs consisting of a hydrophobic backbone, hydrophilic imidazolium pendant groups and strong hydrogen bonding basic counteranions are prepared by reversible addition fragmentation chain‐transfer polymerization. The PILs have a perfect balance of hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity and functionality, affording outstanding phase separation, which was better than with either the IL monomer poly(1‐butyl‐3‐vinylimidazolium bromide ([BVIm]Br) or the normal free‐radical polymer P[BVIm]Br*. More importantly, PIL‐based ABSs exhibited unprecedented high partition coefficients for six bioactive compounds including tryptophan, phenylalanine, and caffeine, as well as high extraction yields. The performance of the PIL‐based ABSs could also be tuned by changing the molecular weight and anionic character of the PILs. This work shows that tailor‐made PIL‐based ABSs are a promising platform for bioactive compound extraction and provides significant clues for the design of new ABSs for various applications.
Multilingual perspectives: preparing for language learning in the new curriculum for Wales
Authors: Gorrara Claire , Jenkins Lucy , Jepson Eira , Llewelyn Machin Tallulah
Published: January 2020

This article will investigate the place of language learning in the new Curriculum for Wales and the value of a multilingual approach and ethos. The article will begin by setting out the historical context for modern foreign language teaching in the United Kingdom. It will then discuss the context for language learning in Wales, focusing on the Welsh Government's Global Futures five‐year strategy for modern foreign languages (2015–2020). It will evaluate the success of this languages' strategy in addressing the attrition rates for modern foreign languages in Welsh schools. The article will then proceed to analyse the assumptions underpinning language learning in the Draft Curriculum for Wales 2022, as demonstrated in the Languages, Literacy and Communication Area of Learning and Experience (AoLE) which brings together Welsh, English and international languages. This article will argue that this reconfiguration offers a unique position from which to create a sustained partnership, working between historically separate language teaching and learning communities. Finally, this article will focus on a modern foreign language mentoring project as an example of a multilingual approach to language learning. Ultimately, this article will advocate for an ambitious rethinking of how we conceive, teach and value language learning for twenty‐first century Wales.
The effect of the lens of the teacher on summative assessment decision making: the role of amplifiers and filters
Authors: Edwards Frances
Published: January 2020

Teachers draw on an amalgam of knowledge bases in their summative assessment decision making. However, research indicates that teachers' actions do not necessarily reflect their knowledge of good summative assessment practice, as other factors are at play. This article draws on findings from a qualitative study to explore what drives the decision making of beginning teachers as they develop summative assessment literacy. Gess‐Newsome's Model of Teacher Professional Knowledge and Skill provided a conceptual framework for the study. This model conceptualises the translation of knowledge to classroom practice as being influenced by a range of amplifiers and filters as it passes through the lens of the teacher. Teachers in this study indicated that contextual and personal factors acted in the role of amplifiers and/or filters as they personalised assessment knowledge and as they made decisions about their assessment actions in classrooms. This sometimes led to surprising outcomes such as teachers purposefully ignoring assessment protocols. This article proposes that teacher cognisance of the presence and impacts of amplifiers and filters on their assessment decision making is valuable.
Optimized cooperative spectrum sensing network analysis in nonfading and fading environments
Authors: Ranjeeth M. , Anuradha S. , Nallagonda Srinivas
Published: January 2020

The proposed cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) network is equipped with multiple antennas and an improved energy detector (IED) scheme at each cognitive radio (CR). Each CR in the network receives the information about the primary user (PU) in the form of binary decisions at multiple antennas. Diversity technique called selection combining (SC) scheme is used at multiple antennas to select the maximum value of sensing information present at multiple antennas. Finally, sensing information will be passed to the fusion center (FC) through reporting channel, and the final decision about PU is made at FC using fusion rules. Initially, we have derived the novel missed detection probability expressions for AWGN channel, Rayleigh, and Rician fading environments. Later, the closed form of optimized expressions for proposed CSS network parameters are derived to achieve an optimal performance. The closed form of optimized expressions such as number of CR users (Nopt), normalize threshold value (λn,opt), and an arbitrary power of the received signal (popt) are derived under various fading environments. The performance is evaluated using complementary receiver operating characteristics (CROC) and total error rate curves. The MATLAB‐based simulations are evaluated with the strong support of theoretical expressions. Finally, various simulation parameters such as sensing channel SNR, the error rate in reporting channel, threshold value, and number of antennas at each CR are considered in the simulation to show the effect on the performance of proposed CSS network.
Super peer selection strategy in peer‐to‐peer networks based on learning automata
Authors: Safara Fatemeh , Souri Alireza , Deiman Sara Fathipour
Published: January 2020

A super peer is a peer that has the highest capacity in comparison with other peers in the network. It is trying to reduce the load of the rest of the peers and improve network performance. Selecting a super peer in a peer‐to‐peer–based network is a very crucial challenge. As the ability of peers are very different, by considering capacity of each peer and selecting a proper role, we can use network components much more efficiently. Because of the dynamicity of these networks, comparative methods of selecting super peers is of special importance. Comparative selection is continuously trying to select proper super peer. In recent studies, learning automata was introduced as a powerful learning model to solve this issue. In most of the studies, learning automata with an S model is employed. In this article, another selection method of learning automata with a P model environment is presented and its capability for super peer selection is shown. Moreover, simulation results show that removing some of the super peers would result in better performance in terms of inversion time in the high level of super‐peer capacity, required time for selecting proper super peer, and super peer tolerance.
Leveraging smart technologies to improve the management of diabetic foot ulcers and extend ulcer‐free days in remission
Authors: Najafi Bijan , Reeves Neil D. , Armstrong David G.
Published: January 2020

The prevalent and long neglected diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) and its related complications rank among the most debilitating and costly sequelae of diabetes. Management of the DFU is multifaceted and requires constant monitoring from patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. The alarmingly high rates of recurrence of ulcerations in the diabetic foot requires a change in our approach to care and to the vernacular in the medical literature. Our efforts should be directed not only on healing of open wounds, but also on maximizing ulcer‐free days for the patient in diabetic foot remission. The increasing development and use of technology within every aspect of our lives represents an opportunity for creative solutions to prevent or better manage this devastating condition. In particular, recent advances in wearable and mobile health technologies appear to show promise in measuring and modulating dangerous foot pressure and inflammation to extend remission and improve the quality of life for these most complex patients. This review article discusses how harnessing wearables and digital technologies may improve the management and optimize prevention of DFUs by identifying high‐risk patients for triage and timely intervention, personalizing prescription of offloading, and improving adherence to protective footwear. While still in their infancy, we envisage a future network of skin‐worn, jewellery‐worn, and implantable sensors that, if allowed to effectively communicate with one another and the patient, could dramatically impact measuring, personalizing, and managing how we and the patients we serve move through our collective world.
Development of an SBU‐Based Mechanochemical Approach for Drug‐Loaded MOFs
Authors: Nawrocki Jan , Prochowicz Daniel , Wiśniewski Andrzej , Justyniak Iwona , Goś Piotr , Lewiński Janusz
Published: January 2020

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted a great deal of attention in the areas of biomedicine due to their versatile porous structures and are potentially ideal vehicles for loading bioactive molecules and controlling the release of small molecules. Current approaches for encapsulation of drug molecules in MOFs are usually based on multistep wet processes. We report here a novel simple and rapid solid‐state process that combines the mechanosynthesis of HKUST‐1 and the encapsulation of ibuprofen (IBU‐H), as a model drug molecule, in a one‐pot reaction involving a pre‐assembled [Cu2(IBU)4]·2DMF cluster. The ibuprofen‐loaded MOF composite (with 58.5 wt.‐% loading capacity) was also studied as a drug delivery carrier system in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution at 37 °C.
A 3D Carbon Foam Derived from Phenol Resin via CsCl Soft‐Templating Approach for High‐Performance Supercapacitor
Authors: Yan Tao , Wan Ziyao , Wang Kang , Hu Maocong , Wang Xitao
Published: January 2020

Carbon with a 3D foam structure is synthesized by a one‐step strategy using low‐molecular‐weight phenolic resin as the precursor and CsCl as a salt template. Their electrochemical performance as electrodes is studied for symmetric supercapacitors. The distinct effect of CsCl addition amount on morphology, pore structure, electric conductivity, and electrochemical performance is further investigated. With appropriate CsCl addition amount, 3D carbon foam is harvested with abundant micropores and mesopores with a surface area beyond 1590 m2 g−1. It is tested as an electrode in a coin‐type symmetric supercapacitor with 6 m KOH and 1 m TEABF4/MeCN as the electrolyte. The 3D carbon foam electrode displays specific capacitance of 259.3 F g−1 in 6 m KOH and 127.9 F g−1 in 1 m TEABF4/MeCN at 0.5 A g−1. Notably, it exhibits high energy density of 27.7 W h kg−1 in 1 m TEABF4/MeCN. After 10 000 cycles, the specific capacitance remains at 96.9% in 6 m KOH, indicating good cycle stability. The superior performance of 3D carbon foam is attributed to larger surface area, higher electric conductivity, and unique 3D foam structure with sufficient 3D ion‐accessible channels. This work develops a simple, facile method to synthesize high‐performance supercapacitor electrode materials.
Critical insight into biowaste‐derived biocatalyst for biodiesel production
Authors: Alrobaian Abdulrahman , Rajasekar Vignesh , Alagumalai Avinash
Published: January 2020

In recent days, the scientific community has been forced to develop renewable fuels due to the demand and increasing cost of conventional fuels. Among the different renewable fuels, biodiesel is a primary renewable fuel produced by the efficient and straightforward process (i.e., catalytic transesterification) with the homogeneous or heterogeneous catalysts. The heterogeneous catalysts are of greater interest in industrial biodiesel production, offering high activity, easy separation, low cost of production, and high reusability. Various studies have shown that the heterogeneous catalysts of calcium and potassium oxides offer a faster reaction rate. In this context, this study provides an overview of calcium and potassium oxide catalysts derived from waste resources. This study also presents the biomass catalytic preparation method and the optimal process conditions under which high biodiesel yield can be achieved. On the whole, the core objective of this study is to find the feasibility of biomass‐derived catalyst in the commercial sector and to determine its suitability for sustainable industrial application.
Efficient strong motion duration of pulse‐like records for nonlinear structural analyses
Authors: Repapis Constantinos C. , Mimoglou Petros P. , Dimakopoulou Vicky V. , Psycharis Ioannis N. , Taflampas Ioannis M.
Published: January 2020

The special interest produced by near‐field directivity records and their effect on structural response has given a new significance in the velocity time history, its pulse‐like content, and relevant parameters and indices. Recent research has shown that directivity pulses inherent in these records govern the linear and the nonlinear response of a wide range of structures. Based on this observation, it is suggested in this paper that a truncated ground motion, limited to the duration of the predominant velocity pulse, can be efficiently used to predict the structural response, instead of the base motion with the total duration, reducing significantly the required runtimes. The proposed methodology is verified for a series of medium to high rise reinforced concrete buildings, for which nonlinear time‐history analyses are performed for a vast suite of pulse‐like near‐field records applied as base excitations with their total duration and the proposed truncated one. Comparison of the results for the response displacements and forces shows very good agreement, permitting the acceptance of the pulse duration as the efficient strong motion time interval of the original record, which determines the response and, thus, it can be used for nonlinear structural analyses.
An efficient protocol and data set for automated otolith image analysis
Authors: Myers Savannah Carolyn , Thorsen Anders , Smoliński Szymon , Aanestad Godiksen Jane , Malde Ketil , Handegard Nils Olav
Published: January 2020

Information on fish age constitutes one of the most important biological variables for a fish stock, and an accurate estimation of the age structure of the fish populations is essential for the reliable management of these natural resources. The age of individual cod (Gadus morhua) is determined by manually examining the layered structure of otoliths, a calcium carbonate structure of the inner ear. Image‐based methods to age otoliths have been investigated for over 4 decades with varying results, but recent developments in automatic image analysis techniques are promising. The objective of this paper is to describe a method to efficiently image a manually broken otolith (avoiding the time‐consuming embedding and cross‐sectioning process) and to describe the organization and acquisition of imaged broken otolith images with associated metadata for a collection of north‐east Arctic cod otoliths. A single‐lens reflex camera was used for capturing photographs of the broken otoliths. A total of six images were acquired for each subject, consisting of three images in the first position with three different light exposures and three images in the second position with three different light exposures. This results in a simple and efficient procedure for capturing clear, satisfactory, and reproducible images of broken fish otoliths, and a more straightforward and less labour‐intensive alternative to the commonly used methods that involve embedding and cross‐sectioning of the otolith.
Defining a cohort of oligometastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients with improved clinical outcomes
Authors: Chee Jeremy , Liu Xuandao , Eu Donovan , Loh Thomas , Ho Francis , Wong Lea C. , Tham Ivan , Tan Chee S. , Goh Boon C. , Lim Chwee M.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To compare the clinical outcomes of oligometastatic versus widely metastatic NPC patients.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review of 157 patients with metastatic NPC at a tertiary hospital was performed. Multivariate analysis was carried out to compare the overall and progression‐free survival (OS and PFS) of these two cohorts of NPC patients. The number of organ involvement and discrete metastatic lesions associated with improved OS and PFS were ascertained.

Results

Patients with oligometastatic NPC (single organ, less than six discrete metastatic lesions) had a better median OS than patients with widespread metastasis (24.8 versus 12.8 months, P < .001). Similarly, the median PFS of oligometastatic NPC was better than that of polymetastatic NPC (11.7 versus 7.3 months, P < .001).

Conclusion

Single organ disease with less than six discrete lesions is a good indicator of limited metastatic load in NPC, and is associated with improved survival.
Liver Disease in Pregnancy: What's New
Authors: Brady Carla W.
Published: January 2020

Liver disease in pregnancy may present as a disorder that is unique to pregnancy or as an acute or chronic liver disease occurring coincidentally in pregnancy. Hepatic diseases that are unique to pregnancy include hyperemesis gravidarum; preeclampsia/eclampsia; the syndrome of hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets; intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy; and acute fatty liver of pregnancy. Acute and chronic forms of primary hepatic disorders that are seen in pregnancy include viral hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis. Because of the need to consider both maternal and fetal health, there are special considerations for the implementation of diagnostic strategies and pharmacologic therapies for liver disease that occurs in pregnancy. An understanding of the pathogenesis and expression of liver diseases in pregnancy has been evolving, and various diagnostic and prognostic tools have been studied in order to determine noninvasive approaches to identifying and staging of such diseases. Investigations have also been underway to evaluate the safety and utility of existing and new therapeutic agents that previously were thought to not be compatible with pregnancy. This review will explore updates in the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of various liver diseases seen in pregnancy.
Convective drying of food materials: An overview with fundamental aspect, recent developments, and summary
Authors: V. P. Chandramohan
Published: January 2020

Convective drying is an ancient technique to dry moist materials. Many experimental and numerical studies on convective drying enriched the knowledge of researchers and industrialists for further research and developments. In this study, a thorough review is made on convective drying of food materials. A brief history of convective drying, its importance, methods, applications, and statistical data are clearly reviewed. The impact of important drying parameters such as shrinkage and influence of pretreatment during convective drying have been critically appraised. Instruments used, experimental setup developed, and properties measured and estimated have been listed and analyzed. A novel technology of taking snapshots during drying using the thermal camera is discussed. Different mathematical models such as analytical and numerical methods and its present challenges are extensively reviewed and discussed. An advanced level solution for convective drying at present is explained. Gaps in numerical methods to solve convective drying problems have been discussed and effective summaries are drawn.
A Novel Fracture Prediction Model Using Machine Learning in a Community‐Based Cohort
Authors: Kong Sung Hye , Ahn Daehwan , Kim Buomsoo (Raymond) , Srinivasan Karthik , Ram Sudha , Kim Hana , Hong A Ram , Kim Jung Hee , Cho Nam H , Shin Chan Soo
Published: January 2020

The prediction of fracture risk in osteoporotic patients has been a topic of interest for decades, and models have been developed for the accurate prediction of fracture, including the fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX). As machine‐learning methodologies have recently emerged as a potential model for medical prediction tools, we aimed to develop a novel fracture prediction model using machine‐learning methods in a prospective community‐based cohort. In this study, 2227 participants (1257 females) with a baseline bone mineral density (BMD) and trabecular bone score were enrolled from the Ansung cohort. The primary endpoint was the fragility fractures reported by patients or confirmed by X‐rays. We used 3 different models: CatBoost, support vector machine (SVM), and logistic regression. During a mean 7.5‐year follow‐up (range, 2.5 to 10 years), fragility fractures occurred in 537 (25.6%) of participants. In predicting total fragility fractures, the area under the curve (AUC) values of the CatBoost, SVM, and logistic regression models were 0.688, 0.500, and 0.614, respectively. The AUC value of CatBoost was significantly better than that of FRAX (0.663; p < 0.001), whereas the the SVM and logistic regression models were not. Compared with the conventional models such as SVM and logistic regression, the CatBoost model had the best performance in predicting total fragility fractures (p < 0.001). According to feature importance in the CatBoost model, the top predicting factors (listed in order) were total hip, lumbar spine, and femur neck BMD, subjective arthralgia score, serum creatinine, and homocysteine. The latter three factors were listed higher than conventional predictors such as age or previous fracture history. In summary, we hereby report the development of a prediction model for fragility fractures using a machine‐learning method, CatBoost, which outperforms the FRAX model as well as two conventional machine‐learning models. The model was also able to propose novel high‐ranking predictors. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase expression in SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells decreases oxidative stress
Authors: Mistry Rakhee J. , Klamt Fábio , Ramsden David B. , Parsons Richard B.
Published: January 2020

Nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase (NNMT) plays a central role in cellular metabolism, regulating pathways including epigenetic regulation, cell signalling, and energy production. Our previous studies have shown that the expression of NNMT in the human neuroblastoma cell line SH‐SY5Y increased complex I activity and subsequent ATP synthesis. This increase in ATP synthesis was lower than the increase in complex I activity, suggesting uncoupling of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. We, therefore, hypothesised that pathways that reduce oxidative stress are also increased in NNMT‐expressing SH‐Y5Y cells. The expression of uncoupling protein‐2 messenger RNA and protein were significantly increased in NNMT‐expressing cells (57% ± 5.2% and 20.1% ± 1.5%, respectively; P = .001 for both). Total GSH (22 ± 0.3 vs 35.6 ± 1.1 nmol/mg protein), free GSH (21.9 ± 0.2 vs 33.5 ± 1 nmol/mg protein), and GSSG (0.6 ± 0.02 vs 1 ± 0.05 nmol/mg protein; P = .001 for all) concentrations were significantly increased in NNMT‐expressing cells, whereas the GSH:GSSG ratio was decreased (39.4 ± 1.8 vs 32.3 ± 2.5; P = .02). Finally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content was decreased in NNMT‐expressing cells (0.3 ± 0.08 vs 0.12 ± 0.03; P = .039), as was the concentration of 8‐isoprostane F2α (200 ± 11.5 vs 45 ± 2.6 pg/mg protein; P = .0012). Taken together, these results suggest that NNMT expression reduced ROS generation and subsequent lipid peroxidation by uncoupling the mitochondrial membrane potential and increasing GSH buffering capacity, most likely to compensate for increased complex I activity and ATP production.
Exploring the binding mechanism of HDAC8 selective inhibitors: Lessons from the modification of Cap group
Authors: Zhang Min , Ying Jun Biao , Wang Song Song , He Dian , Zhu Hongtian , Zhang Chenghong , Tang Lei , Lin Ruili , Zhang Yang
Published: January 2020

The abnormal expression of histone deacetylase 8 (HDAC8) has been reported to associate with various cancer entities (colon, breast cancer, pancreas, etc.) as well as parasitic diseases, making HDAC8 gradually develop into an attractive and potential therapeutic target. Among the various design strategies of selective HDAC8 inhibitors (modification of Cap, Linker, or zinc binding group regions), the optimization of Cap region has aroused great interest among the researchers. However, the detailed information underlying how the modification of Cap region influences the inhibitory activities is still unclear, and in this study, compounds 2c, 3g, and 3n were selected to explore the differences in binding mechanisms brought by Cap modifications via various computational approaches at the atomic level. Five residues (Y293, H167, D254, D165, and M261) have a large difference in energy contributions to the constructed systems, and the subpocket formed by Y293 and M261 could interact with Cap groups, triggering the differences in the energy contributions of the residues (H167, D254, and D165) located in metal‐catalytic center. In summary, the compounds 2c, 3g, and 3n were selected as molecular probes to explore the binding mechanism, and the residues (Y293 and M261) forming the subpocket should be paid special attention in the design and synthesis of novel selective HDAC8 inhibitors.
Development of a novel liposomal nanoparticle formulation of cisplatin to breast cancer therapy
Authors: Ghafari Mehrnaz , Haghiralsadat Fateme , Khanamani Falahati‐pour Soudeh , Zavar Reza Javad
Published: January 2020

Cisplatin is one of the conventional drugs used in chemotherapy which has a potent antitumor function. However, due to the dangerous side effects, including the damage to DNA of the normal cells, its clinical use is limited. The aim of this study was to prepare and characterize nanoliposome containing cisplatin. We optimized liposome formulations through the modification of the proportion of SPC80 (soybeanphospholipids with 75% phosphatidylcholine) and cholesterol content. Then, novel PEGylated liposomal formulations containing SPC80: cholesterol: DSPE‐mPEG (at ratios of 85:10:5) were designed and developed to serve as a therapy to achieve more improved pharmaceutical efficiency. Zeta Sizer showed that PEGylated nanoliposomes had a mean diameter of 119.7 ± 2.1 nm, a zeta potential of −26.03 ± 1.34 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 96.65 ± 3%. The optimum formulations represented sustained, thermo‐sensitive release, and augmented cellular uptake. The cytotoxic effect of the liposomal drug was higher than the free medication drug that confirmed the efficiency of cellular uptake. This study suggests that nanoliposome‐loaded cisplatin plays a vital role in improving drug efficacy and the reduction of dosage.
A preliminary study for the establishment of a reference interval for vitamin B12 in China after performance verification of a second‐generation ECLIA kit
Authors: Jiang Wencan , Men Shasha , wen Xinyu , Yuan Xiaozhou , Pu Danna , Liu Xiaoting , Jia Xingwang , Wang Chengbin
Published: January 2020

Background

The second‐generation electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) kit of vitamin B12 is widely used in clinical laboratories, and the establishment of a reference interval (RI) is essential to provide the basis for clinical monitoring. The purpose of this study was to establish a laboratory RI for vitamin B12 in China and at the same time verify the method performance of the second‐generation kit.

Methods

The verification of the method performance was conducted according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Based on these guidelines, a total of 580 serum samples were collected, and 391 serum samples were used for the establishment of the RI according to CLSI guidelines. The subjects were grouped by sex and age. The age groups were as follows: 21‐40, 41‐60, and 61‐80 years. The RI was defined by nonparametric 2.5th and 97.5th percentile intervals.

Results

The performance of the second‐generation kit of vitamin B12 from the Roche Cobas E602 system was in compliance with laboratory requirements. Serum vitamin B12 levels conformed to a non‐Gaussian distribution. Harris‐Boyd's test did not indicate partitioning for different age and gender group. Besides, there was no significant difference between different age groups (P = .07) and gender groups (P = .2002). The RI for healthy Chinese adults (aged 21‐80 years) calculated by the nonparametric method was 250.8‐957.1 pg/mL.

Conclusions

The reference range of vitamin B12 was established, which provided a theoretical basis for the clinical application and monitoring of vitamin B12 detection.
Serving those who serve: Psychotherapy with military clients
Authors: Raskin Patricia M.
Published: January 2020

As in the Vietnam era, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are not the focus of the nightly news. Nevertheless, there are countless numbers of individuals enlisting, serving, deploying, redeploying, and leaving military branches every day. These individuals are underserved in many ways, especially after they end their formal relationship with their service. The purpose of this introduction is to describe the ongoing concerns and psychological problems of our military personnel and the efforts, described by the authors of papers in this issue, to address these concerns and problems.
Psychotherapy for veterans navigating the military‐to‐civilian transition: A case study
Authors: Stevenson Brian J.
Published: January 2020

Veterans face a range of challenges as they transition out of the military and into civilian life. For some, this period of transition is characterized by loss of identity, loss of daily structure, loss of community, and confusion about where they fit within society. If not attended to, problems associated with the military‐to‐civilian transition can lead to significant functional impairment. Yet, little is known about how psychotherapy can support this period of adjustment that every veteran will face. This article presents a case study of a veteran struggling to adjust to the civilian world following his service in the military. Critical areas of assessment, conceptualization, and intervention are explicated to help inform best practices for mental health providers working with veterans.
Lubrication performance of aqueous copolymer lubricants with phosphate ester additive at different temperature on the Si surface
Authors: Lin Bingjing , Tieu A. Kiet , Zhu Hongtao , Kosasih Buyung , Novareza Oyong
Published: January 2020

The lubrication performance of adsorbed triblock copolymers polypropylene oxide‐polyethylene oxide‐polypropylene oxide (PPO–PEO–PPO) with phosphate ester films at different temperature on the Si surface was investigated using a pin‐on‐disc tribometer. The results revealed that the molecular architecture of the triblock copolymer and the temperature had a significant influence on the tribological behaviour. The triblock copolymer with a higher weight percentage of PPO exhibited a better lubrication performance both below and above the cloud point. However, when the temperature is above the cloud point, the adsorbed PPO–PEO–PPO film showed worse lubricity than that below the cloud point. The addition of phosphate ester to the triblock copolymer solution resulted in the decrease of the coefficient of friction and the improvement of the anti‐wear property. Moreover, with the added phosphate ester, the tribological performance became insensitive to the temperature.
UF‐5000 flow cytometer: A new technology to support microbiologists’ interpretation of suspected urinary tract infections
Authors: Ippoliti Roberto , Allievi Isabella , Rocchetti Andrea
Published: January 2020

This case study aims to describe the adoption of an innovative flow cytometer (i.e., UF‐5000), which can support the microbiologists’ process of diagnosing suspected urinary tract infections (UTIs). The new clinical information provided can be used to improve the identification of both contamination and colonization, thus reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions. In July and August 2017, the Microbiology Laboratory of Alessandria (Italy) conducted a retrospective monocentric study analyzing data about 1,295 urine specimens from inpatients and outpatients with symptoms of UTIs. The results of this study show that the innovative technology can successfully support the diagnostic process in microbiology laboratories and, consequently, the supply of sustainable treatments by hospitals.
A simple numerical method for two‐dimensional nonlinear fractional anomalous sub‐diffusion equations
Authors: Sweilam N. H. , Ahmed S. M. , Adel M.
Published: January 2020

Recently, many numerical techniques were presented to solve the fractional anomalous sub‐diffusion equations, and the results were excellent. In this paper, we study a simple numerical technique to solve two important types of fractional anomalous sub‐diffusion equations that appear strongly in chemical reactions and spiny neuronal dendrites, which are the two‐dimensional fractional Cable equation and the two‐dimensional fractional reaction sub‐diffusion equation. The proposed technique is a simple one which is an extension of the weighted average finite difference technique. The stability analysis of the proposed method is studied by means of John von Neumann stability analysis technique. An accurate stability criterion which is valid for different discretization schemes of the fractional derivative and arbitrary weight factor is introduced. Four numerical examples are presented (two for the Cable equation and two for the reaction sub‐diffusion equation) to demonstrate the effectiveness and the accuracy of the presented method.
A comparison of dynamic thermal characteristics of planar and Fin GaN HEMTs
Authors: Chen Zhanfei , Sun Lingling , Liu Jun
Published: January 2020

In this article, the dynamic thermal characteristic of planar and FinFET HEMTs are investigated using an analytical thermal impedance extraction method. The difference of dynamic thermal characteristic between GaN‐based planar and FinFET HEMTs has been compared. The results show that the FinFET transistor is less affected by thermal effect than the planar transistor by 50%. As the temperature rises significantly, the output power of the FinFET transistor is greater than that of the planar transistor. The results provide a reliable basis for selecting thermal management algorithms for circuits carrying various frequency components.
Covering edges in networks
Authors: Fröhlich Nicolas , Maier Andrea , Hamacher Horst W.
Published: January 2020

In this paper we consider the covering problem on a network G = (V, E) with edge demands. The task is to cover a subset J ⊆ E of the edges with a minimum number of facilities within a predefined coverage radius. We focus on both the nodal and the absolute version of this problem. In the latter, facilities may be placed everywhere in the network. While there already exist polynomial time algorithms to solve the problem on trees, we establish a finite dominating set (i.e., a finite subset of points provably containing an optimal solution) for the absolute version in general graphs. Complexity and approximability results are given and a greedy strategy is proved to be a (1 + ln(|J|))‐approximate algorithm. Finally, the different approaches are compared in a computational study.