bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity to AMF species is greater in late‐successional than early‐successional native or nonnative grassland plants
Authors: Cheeke Tanya E. , Zheng Chaoyuan , Koziol Liz , Gurholt Carli R. , Bever James D.
Published: July 2019

Sensitivity of plant species to individual arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal species is of primary importance to understanding the role of AM fungal diversity and composition in plant ecology. Currently, we do not have a predictive framework for understanding which plant species are sensitive to different AM fungal species. In two greenhouse studies, we tested for differences in plant sensitivity to different AM fungal species and mycorrhizal responsiveness across 17 grassland plant species of North America that varied in successional stage, native status, and plant family by growing plants with different AM fungal treatments including eight single AM fungal isolates, diverse mixtures of AM fungi, and non‐inoculated controls. We found that late successional grassland plant species were highly responsive to AM fungi and exhibited stronger sensitivity in their response to individual AM fungal taxa compared to nonnative or early successional native grassland plant species. We confirmed these results using a meta‐analysis that included 13 experiments, 37 plant species, and 40 fungal isolates (from nine publications and two greenhouse experiments presented herein). Mycorrhizal responsiveness and sensitivity of response (i.e., variation in plant biomass response to different AM fungal taxa) did not differ by the source of fungal inocula (i.e., local or not local) or plant family. Sensitivity of plant response to AM fungal species was consistently correlated with the average mycorrhizal response of that plant species. This study identifies that AM fungal identity is more important to the growth of late successional plant species than early successional or nonnative plant species, thereby predicting that AM fungal composition will be more important to plant community dynamics in late successional communities than in early successional or invaded plant communities.
Filtering and prediction of noisy and unstable signals: The case of Google Trends data
Authors: Fenga Livio
Published: July 2019

Google Trends data is a dataset increasingly employed for many statistical investigations. However, care should be placed in handling this tool, especially when applied for quantitative prediction purposes. Being by design Internet user dependent, estimators based on Google Trends data embody many sources of uncertainty and instability. They are related, for example, to technical (e.g., cross‐regional disparities in the degree of computer alphabetization, time dependency of Internet users), psychological (e.g., emotionally driven spikes and other form of data perturbations), linguistic (e.g., noise generated by double‐meaning words). Despite the stimulating literature available today on how to use Google Trends data as a forecasting tool, surprisingly, to the best of the author's knowledge, it appears that to date no articles specifically devoted to the prediction of these data have been published. In this paper, a novel forecasting method, based on a denoiser of the wavelet type employed in conjunction with a forecasting model of the class SARIMA (seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average), is presented. The wavelet filter is iteratively calibrated according to a bounded search algorithm, until a minimum of a suitable loss function is reached. Finally, empirical evidence is presented to support the validity of the proposed method.
Mechanistic Insights on Reduction of Carboxamides by Diisobutylaluminum Hydride and Sodium Hydride−Iodide Composite
Authors: Ong Derek Yiren , Watanabe Kohei , Takita Ryo , Chiba Shunsuke
Published: July 2019

The reaction mechanisms on reduction of tertiary carboxamides by diisobutylaluminum hydride (DIBAL) and sodium hydride (NaH)‐sodium iodide (NaI) composite were elucidated by the computational and experimental approaches. Reduction of N,N‐dimethyl carboxamides with DIBAL provides the corresponding amines, whereas that with the NaH−NaI composite exclusively forms aldehyde even at high reaction temperature. DFT calculations revealed that dimeric structural nature of DIBAL and Lewis acidity on its Al center play crucial role to decompose the tetrahedral anionic carbinol amine intermediate through C−O bond cleavage. On the other hand, in the reduction with the NaH−NaI composite, the resulting tetrahedral anionic carbinol amine intermediate could be kept stable, thus providing aldehydes as a sole product by the aqueous workup
Tissue and serum metabolomic phenotyping for diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Han Jun , Han Min‐lu , Xing Hao , Li Zhen‐li , Yuan Dao‐yi , Wu Han , Zhang Han , Wang Ming‐da , Li Chao , Liang Lei , Song Yan‐yan , Xu Ai‐jing , Wu Meng‐chao , Shen Feng , Xie Ying , Yang Tian
Published: July 2019

More than two‐thirds of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cannot receive curative therapy and have poor survival due to late diagnosis and few prognostic directions. In our study, nontargeted and targeted metabolomics analyses were conducted by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry to characterize metabolic features of HCC and identify diagnostic and prognostic biomarker candidate incorporating liver tissue and serum metabolites. A total of 552 subjects, including 432 with liver tissue and 120 with serum specimens, were recruited in China. In the discovery cohort, a series of 138 metabolites were identified to discriminate HCC tissues from matched nontumor tissues. Retinol presented with the highest area under the curve (AUC) of 0.991 and associated with Edmondson grade. In the validation cohort, all metabolites in retinol metabolism pathway were examined and the levels of retinol and retinal in tumor tissue and serum decreased in the order of normal to cirrhosis to HCC of Edmondson Grades I to IV. Retinol and retinal levels could also differentiate between HCC and cirrhosis, with AUCs of 0.996 and 0.994, respectively, in tissue and 0.812 and 0.744, respectively, in serum. The AUC of the combined retinol and retinal panel in serum was 0.852. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression identified this panel as an independent predictor for HCC and showed that low expression of retinol and retinal correlated with decreased survival time. In conclusion, the retinol metabolic signature had considerable diagnostic and prognostic value for identifying HCC patients who would benefit from prompt therapy and optimal prognostic direction.
Identification of O‐acetylhomoserine sulfhydrylase, a putative enzyme responsible for methionine biosynthesis in Clostridioides difficile: Gene cloning and biochemical characterizations
Authors: Kulikova Vitalia V. , Revtovich Svetlana V. , Bazhulina Natalia P. , Anufrieva Natalya V. , Kotlov Mikhail I. , Koval Vasiliy S. , Morozova Elena A. , Hayashi Hideyuki , Belyi Yury F. , Demidkina Tatyana V.
Published: July 2019

O‐acetylhomoserine sulfhydrylase (OAHS) is a pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate‐dependent enzyme involved in microbial methionine biosynthesis. In this study, we report gene cloning, protein purification, and some biochemical characteristics of OAHS from Clostridioides difficile. The enzyme is a tetramer with molecular weight of 185 kDa. It possesses a high activity in the reaction of L‐homocysteine synthesis, comparable to reported activities of OAHSes from other sources. OAHS activity is inhibited by metabolic end product L‐methionine. L‐Propargylglycine was found to be a suicide inhibitor of the enzyme. Substrate analogue Nγ‐acetyl‐L‐2,4‐diaminobutyric acid is a competitive inhibitor of OAHS with Ki = 0.04 mM. Analysis of C. difficile genome allows to suggest that the bacterium uses the way of direct sulfhydrylation for the synthesis of L‐methionine. The data obtained may provide the basis for further study of the role of OAHS in the pathogenic bacterium and the development of potential inhibitors.
Planning for Multiple Shopping Goals in the Marketplace
Authors: Suher Jacob , Huang Szu‐chi , Lee Leonard
Published: July 2019

Four online grocery‐shopping experiments and one field study using video‐tracking technology at a grocery store document how shoppers’ motivation evolves from the beginning to the end of their shopping trips. We uncover unique motivational patterns as shoppers achieve multiple subgoals (i.e., choose multiple grocery items) to complete their trips: a monotonic decrease in motivation for shoppers with a shopping list versus a curvilinear trend (i.e., decrease then increase) in motivation for shoppers without a list. In addition, we demonstrate how to reverse the observed patterns for shoppers with a list by changing their reference points for tracking progress. The discovery of the moderating role of shopping‐list usage adds to the bubbling dialogue in goal pursuit and shopper psychology research concerning how consumer motivation follows either a monotonic trend (e.g., a goal gradient effect) or a nonmonotonic trend (e.g., the stuck‐in‐the‐middle effect). Importantly, we demonstrate how the stuck‐in‐the‐middle theory, which applies to single‐goal pursuits, can apply more broadly to the domain of grocery shopping, which consists of the generation and completion of multiple subgoals.
Perinodal fibrosis developed after ultrasonography‐guided core‐needle biopsy of a contrast‐enhanced ultrasound‐detected sentinel axillary node interferes with subsequent surgical sentinel node dissection
Authors: Serquiz Nicoli , Moro Luciano , Menossi Carlos A. , Almeida Natalie R. , Baccarin Gabrielle , de Paiva Silva Geisilene R. , Shinzato Julia Y. , Derchain Sophie , Jales Rodrigo M.
Published: July 2019

Objective

To evaluate perinodal fibrosis after 14‐gauge staging core‐needle biopsy (CNB) of the axillary sentinel lymph node (SLN) identified using contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) and its interference with subsequent surgical SLN dissection in breast cancer patients.

Methods

Frequencies or means of main clinical, sonographic, pathological, and surgical characteristics were calculated. We also compared patient groups with and without perinodal pathological fibrosis.

Results

Forty‐eight patients who underwent CEUS + CNB and axillary surgery were eligible for this cross‐sectional study. Axillary surgical specimens showed perinodal fibrosis in 9/48 (18.7%) patients. Interference with SLN dissection was reported in 4/48 (8.3%) patients (two hematomas, three abnormal palpation findings, and four difficult dissections). The overall surgical detection rate of SLN was 43/48 (89.6%). In the majority of cases, perinodal fibrosis was described as moderate (4/9 [44.4%]) or severe (4/9 [44.4%]). The mean time elapsed between CEUS + CNB and axillary dissection was shorter in patients with perinodal fibrosis (P = .04). Interference with SLN dissection was only reported in patients with perinodal fibrosis (P < .001). Surgical SLN detection was successful in all nine cases in which perinodal pathological fibrosis or interference with SLN dissection was reported.

Conclusion

Perinodal fibrosis may impair the surgical SLN dissection in early stage breast cancer patients who were staged using CEUS + CNB using a14‐gauge needle.
Lung ultrasound in the diagnosis of neonatal respiratory failure prior to patient transport
Authors: Jagła Mateusz , Grudzień Andrzej , Starzec Katarzyna , Tomasik Tomasz , Zasada Magdalena , Kwinta Przemko
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Lung ultrasound (LUS) at the point‐of‐care is a new method that is increasingly used in neonatology. The aim of this study was to determine the utility of the addition of LUS prior to the interhospital transport of neonates with respiratory failure.

Methods

LUS was performed on 50 newborns with respiratory failure prior to transport to a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit. We analyzed the performance of LUS for diagnosing the cause of respiratory failure, the concordance between LUS, chest X‐ray (CXR) and final clinical diagnosis, and the impact of LUS on clinical decision making before transport.

Results

LUS sensitivity for the diagnosis of respiratory distress syndrome was 91.3% (95%CI: 70.5‐98.5%), and specificity was 92.6% (95%CI: 74.2‐98.7%), whereas sensitivity and specificity of CXR were 69.6% (95%CI: 47.0‐85.9%) and 81.5% (95%CI: 61.2‐92.9%), respectively. For the recognition of pneumothorax (PTX) LUS had a sensitivity of 83.3% (95%CI: 36.5‐99.1%) and a specificity of 100% (95%CI: 89.9‐100%). For CXR, sensitivity was 16.7% (95%CI: 0.01‐63.5%) and specificity was 97.7% (95%CI: 86.4‐99.9%). The agreement between LUS and CXR in diagnosing the cause of respiratory failure was substantial (κ of 0.57 [95%CI: 0.40‐0.74]) and the agreement between LUS and the final clinical diagnosis was very good (κ of 0.86 [95%CI: 0.74‐0.98]). In 42% of the patients, a LUS examination prior to transport indicated the need for endotracheal tube repositioning or PTX decompression.

Conclusion

LUS may be a reliable imaging technique for differentiating the causes of respiratory failure before neonatal transport. Use of LUS may optimize the care of infants during transport.
Circadian dysfunction in the Q175 model of Huntington's disease: Network analysis
Authors: Smarr Benjamin , Cutler Tamara , Loh Dawn H. , Kudo Takashi , Kuljis Dika , Kriegsfeld Lance , Ghiani Cristina A. , Colwell Christopher S.
Published: July 2019

Disturbances in sleep/wake cycle are a common complaint of individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) and are displayed by HD mouse models. The underlying mechanisms, including the possible role of the circadian timing system, have been the topic of a number of recent studies. The (z)Q175 mouse is a knock‐in model in which the human exon 1 sequence of the huntingtin gene is inserted into the mouse DNA with approximately 190 CAG repeats. Among the numerous models available, the heterozygous Q175 offers strong construct validity with a single copy of the mutation, genetic precision of the insertion and control of mutation copy number. In this review, we will summarize the evidence that this model exhibits disrupted diurnal and circadian rhythms in locomotor activity. We found overwhelming evidence for autonomic dysfunction including blunted daily rhythms in heart rate and core body temperature (CBT), reduced heart rate variability, and almost a complete failure of the sympathetic arm of the autonomic nervous system to function during the baroreceptor reflex. Mechanistically, the Q175 mouse model exhibits deficits in the neural output of the central circadian clock, the suprachiasmatic nucleus along with an enhancement of at least one type of potassium current in these neurons. Finally, we report a novel network analysis examining the phase coherence between activity, CBT, and cardiovascular measures. Such analyses found that even young Q175 mutants (heterozygous or homozygous) show coherence degradation, and suggests that loss of phase coherence is a variable that should be considered as a possible biomarker for HD.
Stakeholder priorities for inclusive accessible housing: A systematic review and multicriteria decision analysis
Authors: Lakhani Ali , Zeeman Heidi , Wright Courtney J. , Watling David P. , Smith Dianne , Islam Rafikul
Published: July 2019

The lack of inclusive, accessible housing that meets the needs of people with physical and cognitive disability is a global issue. The inadequacy of inclusive housing development is partly a result of divergent priorities and poor coordination between housing, health, and disability sector stakeholders—public and private developers, designers, architects, occupational therapists, and disability service organizations. This paper provides findings from an Australian Research Council funded study where the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was utilized to compare and contrast inclusive housing development priorities among relevant stakeholders. A multistage process was undertaken to ascertain the AHP criteria for inclusive housing development decisions, including a systematic review of peer‐reviewed and grey literature, in addition to a structured focus group with end users (n = 17) and an industry stakeholder online survey (n = 130). Finally, a subgroup of industry stakeholders (n = 29) representing the housing, health, and disability sectors completed the AHP to establish decision priorities. The final AHP model indicated three broad clusters of decision priorities for inclusive accessible housing development: end‐user connectedness, building considerations, and feasibility, respectively. Global weights conclude that specific end‐user connectedness elements, namely, “access to health care,” “community engagement,” “proximity to transport,” and “security and safety,” were the foremost priorities. It is expected that inclusive housing development decisions that integrate the connectedness of end users first and foremost, with building and feasibility priorities, will favourably impact the housing opportunities and choices for people with disability.
Correlation of EYS polymorphisms with lumbar disc herniation risk among Han Chinese population
Authors: Ji Demin , Xing Wenhua , Li Feng , Huang Zhi , Zheng Wenkai , Hu Baoyang , Niu FangLin , Zhu Yong , Yang Xuejun
Published: July 2019

Background

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a common spinal disease in clinical practice. Once lumbar disc herniation occurs, it seriously reduces patient's quality of life. The EYS (eyes shut homolog) was discovered in recent years and it may be related to lumbar disc herniation. So we conducted a case–control study to explore the relationship between EYS polymorphism and lumbar disc herniation risk.

Methods

We selected 5 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of EYS gene in a case–control study with 508 cases and 508 healthy controls to evaluate the relatedness by using genetic model, haplotype, and stratification analysis.

Results

We found that the minor alleles of rs62413038 (OR = 1.21, 95%CI: 1.01–1.43, p = .036) and rs9450607 (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.05–1.53, p = .016) were associated with an increased risk of lumbar disc herniation in the allelic model analysis. In the genotypic model analysis, rs62413038 displayed a significantly increased risk of lumbar disc herniation in log‐additive models (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01–1.43, p = .039). While the rs9450607 was also obviously associated with an increased lumbar disc herniation risk in recessive (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.24–3.13, p = .004) and log‐additive models (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.05–1.55, p = .014). In addition, in the haplotype analyses of the SNPs, we found that the “CGGA” haplotype of rs1482456, rs9342097, rs9450607, and rs7757884 was associated with lumbar disc herniation. (OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.30–0.89, p = .017).

Conclusion

These results suggest that EYS polymorphism may be associated with lumbar disc herniation among Han Chinese population. It also opens up a new exploration direction for the etiology of lumbar disc herniation.
ICS debate article—childbirth, modes of delivery, and pelvic floor dysfunction—challenges in educating women about modes of delivery and granting an informed decision process
Authors: Lemos Nucelio , Doumouchtsis Stergios K.
Published: July 2019

The impact of the mode of birth on the mother and fetus has been a popular topic for a long‐standing debate. Several morbidities have been associated with one mode of delivery or another. When this debate focuses specifically on the effects of vaginal birth or cesarean delivery on pelvic floor function and dysfunction, current research‐based evidence fails to provide clear answers as many contributing and confounding factors, and other limitations inherent to the evidence itself blur the links between causes and outcomes.

This debate article provides and overview of the biopsychosocial gaps on this subject and raises questions to the current state in patient counselling on labour and delivery.
Clinical evaluation of the Uphold LITE mesh for the surgical treatment of anterior and apical prolapse: A prospective, multicentre trial
Authors: Allegre Lucie , Debodinance Philippe , Demattei Christophe , Fabbro Peray Pascale , Cayrac Mélanie , Fritel Xavier , Courtieu Christophe , Fatton Brigitte , de Tayrac Renaud
Published: July 2019

Aims

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Uphold LITE mesh in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse at 12‐month follow‐up.

Methods

Women undergoing a mesh surgery due to an anterior prolapse plus a symptomatic anterior prolapse (classed as pelvic organ prolapse quantification stage ≥2) were included in this prospective, multicentre, observational study. The primary endpoint was a composite outcome including a good anatomical correction, no prolapse symptoms, and no reintervention for an anterior or apical recurrent prolapse within 12 months of surgery. Secondary outcomes included safety, improvements in quality of life (QoL), and risk factor for recurrence. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01559168.

Results

A total of 121 patients were included. Symptomatic and anatomic cure rates were 94% (95 of 101) and 76.8% (76 of 99), respectively. The composite success rate was 72.4% (71 of 98). The rate of reoperation for apical or anterior recurrent prolapse was 3.9% (4 of 103). Anatomical anterior or apical recurrence occurred in 18.2% (18 of 97) and 7.2% (7 of 97) of patients, respectively. The composite success rate was significantly higher in centres where more than 30 patients had been treated (80% vs 50%; P = .045). The rate of serious complication was 5.4% (6 of 111). Improvements were recorded in QoL including sexual function.

Conclusions

The Uphold LITE mesh procedure provides satisfactory outcomes in the treatment of anterior and apical prolapse, particularly in high‐volume centres. The rates of adverse effects and reintervention for recurrent prolapse were acceptable.
1H‐NMR and GC for detection of adulteration in commercial essential oils of Cymbopogon ssp
Authors: Cerceau Cristiane I. , Barbosa Luiz C.A. , Alvarenga Elson S. , Maltha Celia R.A. , Ismail Fyaz M.D.
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Essential oils of Cymbopogon nardus and C. winterianus have fungicidal, bactericidal, and insect repellent activities. In addition, they are components of fragrances, cosmetics, and household products. The growing demand for essential oils has intensified adulteration practices of such products.

Objectives

To evaluate the authenticity and quality of citronella commercial essential oils based on chemical composition [by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS)] and the contents of its major constituents [by 1H‐NMR, and gas chromatography with a flame ionisation detector using internal standardisation (GC‐IS)].

Materials and Methods

The chemical composition of essential oil was determined by GC‐MS. Major components were quantified by 1H‐NMR and the results compared to those obtained by GC‐IS.

Results

The adulteration of oils was verified by GC and 1H‐NMR. In the pure oils, the results obtained by 1H‐NMR were similar to those obtained by GC‐IS for most of the oils. However, in adulterated oils, signal overlap prevented the quantification of citronellol and geraniol by NMR. Importantly, due to dilution with dipropylene glycol it was not possible to quantify citronellal using 1H‐NMR. However, for both pure and adulterated oils, GC‐IS method proved successful in quantifying notable constituents.

Conclusion

All the methods used proved efficient in detecting adulteration. However, whilst GC‐IS provided quantification of constituents of interest, both in pure and adulterated oils, their quantification by NMR was only possible in non‐adulterated samples. None of the oils evaluated presented a composition within the threshold established by British Pharmacopoeia quality standards.
Chemotaxonomic studies of 12 Dioscorea species from China by UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS analysis
Authors: Li Xuejiao , Wang Ying , Sun Jiachen , Li Xia , Zhao Chengcheng , Zhao Ping , Man Shuli , Gao Wenyuan
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Dioscorea species, which contain abundant steroidal saponins, have been used as folk medicines or raw materials to synthesise steroid drugs.

Objective

To establish a rapid chemotaxonomic method that will comprehensively resolve confusions about genetic relationships of genus Dioscorea.

Methods

A comprehensive strategy using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS) was firstly proposed to evaluate the chemotaxonomy of 12 species (27 taxa) from China by hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) based on the variations of the identified metabolites.

Results

Twenty‐eight secondary metabolites (mainly steroidal saponins) were identified. The MSn fragmentation patterns of DA (a new acetylated steroidal saponin at C‐7 position) were firstly reported. Moreover, eight major steroidal saponins were further quantified simultaneously by UPLC‐QTOF‐MS method. According to HCA results, D. bulbifera L. was distinguished with species of sect. Stenophora Uline for pennogenin‐type steroidal saponins. Dioscorea zingiberensis exhibited far distance from other members of sect. Stenophora Uline for two unique saponins. Dioscorea banzhuana may be reclassified into sect. Stenophora. Dioscorea nipponica subsp. rosthornii and D. collettii var. hypoglauca might be separated from their original subspecies/varieties as new species, respectively.

Conclusion

The chemotaxonomic method was successfully applied in the study of genetic relationships of Dioscorea species. This study not only enhanced the understanding of chemical constituents, but also laid basic theoretical foundations for the rational utilisation and chemotaxonomy of genus Dioscorea.
In silico production of relative correction factor for the quantitative analysis of multi‐components by single marker method
Authors: Yin Ying‐Hao , Zheng Jia‐Yi , Wang Xin‐Nan , Qian Sheng‐Ying , Liu Xu‐Yi , Liu Li‐Fang , Xin Gui‐Zhong
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Traditional methods to derive experimentally‐generated relative correction factors (RCFs) for the quantitative analysis of herbal multi‐components by single marker (QAMS) method require reference standards and multiple validations with different instruments and columns, which hampers high throughput implementation.

Objectives

To effectively reduce the application amounts of raw material and provide higher and more stable accuracy, this study aimed to develop a method to computationally generate RCFs of herbal components.

Materials and Methods

This strategy included the published data collection, calibration curves screening, computer algorithm‐based RCFs generation and accuracy validation.

Results

Using the in silico approach, we have successfully produced 133 RCFs for the multi‐component quantitative analysis of 63 widely used herbs.

Conclusion

Compared with conventional RCFs, this in silico method would be a low cost and highly efficient way to produce practical RCFs for the QAMS method.
Thermomechanical characterization of thermoplastic polyimide to improve the chain interaction via crystalline domains
Authors: Rivera Nicholls Alejandro , Craft Garrett , Perez Yesenia , Pellissier Matthew , Stock John A. , Testemale Maxime , Kull Ken , Eubank Jarrod , Harmon Julie P.
Published: July 2019

In a previous study on polyimides, we incorporated an aromatic diamine monomer with a methylene linker, 4,4′‐methylenebis(2,6‐dimethylaniline), to make a robust main chain along with aliphatic polyetherdiamine backbone linkers to decrease rigidity. In this report, we explore the behavior of crystalline regions provided by the organized packing of polyethylene oxide into the formerly characterized polymers. The polymers were designed to exhibit thermal properties in between those of conventional aromatic polyimides and polymers with wholly aliphatic ether diamine links, with a target to improve the mechanical characteristics. Through dynamic mechanical analysis and differential scanning calorimetry, it is shown that the incorporation of polyethylene oxide diamine and the removal of methyl pending groups serve to improve the organized packing of the chains. All of this allows for a broader range in tenability of thermal and mechanical properties of the polyimide. Furthermore, the crystalline regions are an important component to maintain the temperature stability of polyimide while maintaining the processability. The polymers are characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, thermomechanical and calorimetric analysis, microhardness measurements, tensile testing, and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1919–1932, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Prevalence of Maternal‐Risk Factors Related to Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome in a Commercial Claims Database: 2011‐2015
Authors: Dave Chintan V. , Goodin Amie , Zhu Yanmin , Winterstein Almut , Wang Xi , Alrwisan Adel , Hartzema Abraham
Published: July 2019

Background

Despite the rising incidence of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), data evaluating trends in maternal risk factors associated with NAS have not been available for recent years, a period characterized by declining opioid prescriptions. The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of opioid‐ and non–opioid‐related factors associated with NAS, and by mutually exclusive subgroups of deliveries without prescription‐opioid use, with prescription‐opioid use, and with opioid‐use disorder (OUD).

Methods

A cohort of pregnancies resulting in live births in a commercial claims data base in 2011–2015 was identified. Examples of maternal risk factors of interest included antepartum prescription‐drug use (e.g., opioids, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs], antipsychotics) and nonprescription‐related factors (e.g., smoking, OUD).

Results

A total of 659 cases of NAS among 621,940 deliveries was identified. Among NAS deliveries, prescription opioids were the most commonly used drug‐class (39.0%). Adjusted relative risk (RR) for NAS was 5.43 (95% confidence interval [CI] 4.25–6.95), followed by SSRIs (20.9%; RR 3.16, CI 2.43–4.11); OUD was noted in 36.3% of the deliveries (RR 40.74, CI 22.64–73.32). In the subgroup of deliveries without a prescription opioid (33% of overall NAS deliveries), the absolute incidence of NAS was low (0.3 cases/1000 deliveries), and SSRIs were the most commonly used medication class (32.7%; RR 10.21, CI 7.28–14.31). In the subgroup of deliveries with an opioid prescription, the absolute incidence of NAS was 7.7/1000 (29% of all overall NAS deliveries), and 22.7% of these deliveries were exposed to one other psychotropic agent in addition to the opioid, most commonly an SSRI (18.0%). In the subgroup of deliveries with a diagnosis of OUD, the NAS incidence was high (214.3/1000 [36% of all NAS cases]).

Conclusion

A third of NAS deliveries did not have evidence of prescription opioids. Other psychotropic medications, especially SSRIs, were strong predictors of NAS in this stratum but had no relevance among deliveries with OUD, suggesting varying etiologies and the need for tailored preventive approaches to reduce NAS effectively.
Temperature‐dependent transition of crystal phases in the electrospinning process of poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene)
Authors: Jung Dae Eon , Lee Ki Hyun , Lee Eun Jeoung , Kim Byoung Chul
Published: July 2019

The temperature‐dependent transition of the crystal phases of poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP) was investigated in the electrospinning process. A solution of PVDF‐HFP in N,N‐dimethyl acetamide (DMAc) produced only the β‐phase‐dominant crystal up to 70 °C, irrespective of the spinneret temperature. In a mixed solvent of DMAc and acetone, however, the crystal phase of the electrospun fibers was dependent on temperature: β‐phase‐dominant at 30 and 50 °C and α‐phase‐dominant at 70 °C. The transition was related to a change of the coagulation rate during electrospinning, because the less perfect α phase is preferable to the β phase at a higher coagulation rate. The temperature‐dependent increase of the coagulation rate was more drastic in the presence of acetone, so the transition took place only in the mixed solvent. At elevated temperature, acetone not only raised the evaporation rate of the solvent but promoted the phase separation of the polymer resulting from the lower critical solution temperature behavior, which was rheologically traced. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Mechanical Properties of Muscles around the Shoulder in Breast Cancer Patients: Intra‐rater and Inter‐rater Reliability of the MyotonPRO
Authors: Yeo Seung Mi , Kang Hyojeong , An Soyeon , Cheong Inyae , Kim Yoon , Hwang Ji Hye
Published: July 2019

Background

Patients with breast cancer typically experience changes in the properties of muscles around the shoulder. However, there is no appropriate evaluation tool for these changes.

Objective

The primary objective was to investigate the inter‐rater and intra‐rater reliability of muscle‐related parameters measured by the MyotonPRO, a myotonometer device. The secondary objective was to investigate differences in properties of muscle around the shoulder between the mastectomy side and the other side.

Design

Cross‐sectional reliability study.

Setting

Outpatient clinic in a tertiary care university‐affiliated hospital.

Participants

Twenty‐two patients with breast cancer who underwent mastectomy.

Methods

Muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity of the pectoralis major (PM), sternocleidomastoid (SCM), and upper trapezius (UT) were measured using the MyotonPRO. Rater 1 performed two sets of measurements with a time interval of 30 minutes to determine intra‐rater reliability. Rater 2 performed measurements during the interval between the two sets of rater 1. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Bland‐Altman analysis. A paired t‐test was used to compare muscle properties between the affected and unaffected sides.

Main Outcome Measurements

Frequency (tone, Hz), stiffness (N/m), and decrement (elasticity).

Results

Intra‐rater reliability was excellent (ICC > 0.75, 0.85‐0.98) for all parameters of the PM, SCM, and UT in the affected and unaffected upper limbs of patients with breast cancer. Inter‐rater reliability was fair to excellent for all parameters except unaffected PM elasticity (ICC = 0.34). There were significant differences in all parameters of the PM between the affected and unaffected sides. There were no significant differences in the parameters of the SCM and UT between the two sides.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the MyotonPRO device is a feasible tool to quantify PM, UT, and SCM muscle properties (stiffness, tone, and elasticity) in patients with breast cancer.

Level of Evidence

III.
Janus Multicolored Photonic Crystal Beads for Real‐Time Magnetic Responsive Patterns
Authors: Huang Chao , Cheng Yu , Zhang Hanbing , Wei Jie
Published: July 2019

Photonic Janus particles that can change colors in different stimuli have shown great promise in various applications, such as optical probes, catalyst supports, sensors, and display materials. However, it remains a challenge to produce Janus structural colored particles with a simple method. Inspired from ecsenius bicolors, a facile preparation of Janus structural colored beads (JSCBs) using sub‐micrometer‐sized colloidal particles and magnetic nanoparticles composed of Fe3O4 is established. A mixed emulsion is prepared by monodispersed colloidal particles and magnetic nanoparticles and initiator of PDMS precursor. Subsequent self‐assembly of the emulsion in the room temperature environment provides two different structural colors, thanks to the gravity deposition of colloidal particles and Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The photonic bandgap of JSCBs can be precisely controlled with varying size of monodispersed colloidal nanoparticles, and the high optical quality and mechanical strength of the structural colored face are attributed to the existence of PDMS. In the presence of a magnet, the JSCBs can change their orientation simultaneously between two different structural colors. Moreover, the JSCBs are capable of encoding and angle‐independent displaying, which are crucial to their applications in anticounterfeiting, information coding, and pattern display.
An investigation into biomarkers for the diagnosis of ABPA and aspergillus disease in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Keown Karen , Abbott Salome , Kuzeljevic Boris , Rayment Jonathan H. , Chilvers Mark A. , Yang Connie L.
Published: July 2019

Background

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a hypersensitivity lung disease due to Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) which occurs in 10% of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). ABPA is associated with increased morbidity and accelerated lung function decline; however, existing diagnostic criteria are nonspecific and diagnosis remains challenging. As ABPA is driven by Th2 inflammation, the aim of this study was to evaluate exhaled nitric oxide (FE
NO), eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP), peripheral eosinophil count, and bronchodilator response (BDR) in patients with CF.

Methods

A prospective observational cohort study of pediatric CF patients in a tertiary center. Patients had a clinical and serologic ABPA assessment, FENO, serum ECP, peripheral eosinophil count, and assessment of BDR. Patients were stratified into three groups; ABPA, Af sensitized (AFS), and non‐ABPA non‐Af‐sensitized (non‐AFS).

Results

A total of 62 patients were included in the study: 13% ABPA, 19% AFS, and 68% non‐AFS. Mean FENO was higher in the ABPA group at 37.8 ppb compared to AFS 15.1 ppb (P = .05) and non‐AFS 13.7 ppb (P = .04). Mean peripheral eosinophil count in ABPA group was also higher at 1000 cells/uL, compared to AFS 221 cells/uL (P = .03) and non‐AFS 220 cells/uL (P = .03). Mean BDR in ABPA group was 13% compared to 5.5% in non‐AFS (P = .01). Serum ECP was higher in patients with ABPA positive compared to the other groups, although this was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

In children with cystic fibrosis, FENO and peripheral eosinophil counts are elevated in ABPA compared to those that are just sensitized to Aspergillus and may serve as useful diagnostic tests.
Natural products with SGLT2 inhibitory activity: Possibilities of application for the treatment of diabetes
Authors: Moradi‐Marjaneh Reyhaneh , Paseban Maryam , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: July 2019

Diabetes mellitus currently affects as many as 400 million people worldwide, creating a heavy economic burden and stretching health care resources. A dysfunction of glucose homeostasis underlies the disease. Despite advances in the treatment of diabetes, many patients still suffer from complications and side effects; hence, development of more effective treatments for diabetes is still desirable. SGLT2 is the principle cotransporter involved in glucose reabsorption in the kidney. SGLT2 inhibition reduces glucose reabsorption by the kidney and ameliorates plasma glucose concentration. The interest in natural products that can be used for the inhibition of SGLT2 is growing. The flavonoid phlorizin, which can be isolated from the bark of apple trees, has been used as lead structure due to its inhibitory activity of SGLT1 and SGLT2. Some phlorizin‐derived synthetic compounds, including canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, ipragliflozin, and ertugliflozin, are approved by the food and drug administration to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), whereas others are under clinical trials investigation. In addition, other natural product‐derived compounds have been investigated for their ability to improve blood glucose control. The present review summarizes the natural products with SGLT2 inhibitory activity, and the synthetic compounds obtained from them, and discusses their application for the treatment of diabetes.
Reliability technology using GO methodology: A review
Authors: Yi Xiao‐jian , Shi Jian , Cheng Jun
Published: July 2019

Goal‐oriented (GO) methodology is a graphic inductive method mapping the system structure, its function constitute, characteristics, and working principle visually based on decision tree. Recently, the studies on reliability technologies for GO method of complex systems have been gotten a lot of attention by scholars because of the obvious advantages of modeling and analysis power. Indeed, the GO method has been applied in reliability and safety analysis of various areas, such as transportation and power systems, to prove its value. Thus, this paper provides a brief review of the GO method from aspects of providing its development history and its engineering applications and expounding its development of the theory of the GO method. At last, the future directions of GO method are discussed.
The Role of Goldschmidt’s Tolerance Factor in the Formation of A2BX6 Double Halide Perovskites and its Optimal Range
Authors: Fedorovskiy Alexander E. , Drigo Nikita A. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: July 2019

Vacancy‐ordered double perovskites is a new branch of lead‐free halide perovskites with properties promising for photovoltaic application. In this study, data about the crystal structure of 170 known A2BX6 (X = I, Br, Cl, F) are collected and analyzed to solve a question of applicability of the Goldschmidt’s tolerance factor and octahedral factor to double perovskites. It is found that Goldschmidt’s tolerance factor is applicable for double perovskites in analog with ABX3 perovskites. Suggested optimal ranges of Goldschmidt’s factor expand the geometrical approach from ABX3 perovskites to A2BX6 double perovskites. The result is useful for up to 796 new full inorganic compounds having double‐perovskite structure and designing new hybrid organic–inorganic double perovskites.
Colonial Waterbird Predation and Angler Catch of Hatchery Rainbow Trout Stocked in Southern Idaho Fisheries
Authors: Chiaramonte Luciano V. , Meyer Kevin A. , Lamansky James A.
Published: July 2019

The abundance of piscivorous colonial waterbirds such as double‐crested cormorants Phalacrocorax auritus and American white pelicans Pelecanus erythrorhynchos has increased dramatically in recent decades in North America, resulting in increased conflict between these birds and fisheries resources, which raises the need to quantify the effects of waterbird predation on fisheries. We estimated avian predation and angler use of two sizes of hatchery‐reared Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss (250 mm and 300 mm on average; termed standard catchables and magnum catchables) at 15 Idaho waters with known cormorant and pelican presence. Fish were tagged with passive integrated transponder (PIT), radio, and T‐bar anchor tags prior to release; the tags were subsequently recovered from bird nesting, roosting, and loafing sites. Estimated angler use, which included fish harvested as well as those that were catch‐and‐release, averaged 17%, while avian predation averaged 35%. Angler catch at study waters declined exponentially as avian predation increased. Predation specifically attributed to double‐crested cormorants and American white pelicans was related to their relative abundance at the waterbodies where the fish were stocked. Avian predation rates were similar for standard and magnum catchables, suggesting that larger fish were not able to escape predation any better than smaller ones. Our results add to existing evidence indicating that in some southern Idaho fisheries, piscivorous birds, rather than anglers, are the dominant consumers of hatchery trout. This study further contributes to the larger issue of competition between humans, wildlife, and fisheries populations.
Examining Life History Shifts and Genetic Composition in a Hatchery Steelhead Population, with Implications for Fishery and Ocean Selection
Authors: Bowersox Brett J. , Corsi Matthew P. , McCormick Joshua L. , Copeland Timothy , Campbell Matthew R.
Published: July 2019

Steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss exhibit significant variation in life histories. Dworshak National Fish Hatchery (NFH)‐stock steelhead exhibit a life history that is unique compared to other Columbia River basin hatchery summer steelhead stocks, as it is dominated by older and larger‐length fish relative to conspecifics. We evaluated changes within the Dworshak NFH stock's ocean age composition and length at age from run years 1978 to 2016 using samples collected from the commercial gill‐net fishery, the sport fishery, and the hatchery trap. In addition, we analyzed the genetic composition of the stock by comparing samples collected in 1969 from the wild founding stock to samples from recent returns. We found that Dworshak NFH steelhead became younger across the study, with fewer of the oldest, three‐ocean fish (i.e., rearing in the ocean for 3 years) and increases in the proportion of the population returning as one‐ocean fish (i.e., rearing in the ocean for 1 year). Length at ocean age decreased for all ocean ages; however, the decrease was not significant in one‐ocean fish. In general, samples collected from gill nets and the sport fishery contained fish with older ocean ages and larger sizes at age compared to samples collected from the hatchery trap. Neutral genetic diversity, as measured from a panel of single‐nucleotide polymorphic markers, showed no changes between the sample of fish representing the original founders and the present‐day population. Life history shifts observed in Dworshak NFH‐stock steelhead were likely influenced by a variety of factors, including gear selectivity and changing ocean conditions. Decreases in ocean age composition and length at age have implications for both fishery and broodstock management as well as generating concern that similar trends may be occurring within wild steelhead stocks.
Systematic analysis of copy‐number variations associated with early pregnancy loss
Authors: Wang Y. , Li Y. , Chen Y. , Zhou R. , Sang Z. , Meng L. , Tan J. , Qiao F. , Bao Q. , Luo D. , Peng C. , Wang Y. S. , Luo C. , Hu P. , Xu Z.
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Embryonic numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities are the most common cause of early pregnancy loss. However, the role of submicroscopic copy‐number variations (CNVs) in early pregnancy loss is unclear, and little is known about the critical regions and candidate genes for miscarriage, because of the large size of structural chromosomal abnormalities. The aim of this study was to identify potential miscarriage‐associated submicroscopic CNVs and critical regions of large CNVs as well as candidate genes for miscarriage.

Methods

Over a 5‐year period, 5180 fresh miscarriage specimens were investigated using quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction/CNV sequencing or chromosomal microarray analysis. Statistically significant submicroscopic CNVs were identified by comparing the frequency of recurrent submicroscopic CNVs between cases and a published control cohort. Furthermore, genes within critical regions of miscarriage‐associated CNVs were prioritized by integrating the Residual Variation Intolerance Score and the human gene expression dataset for identification of potential miscarriage candidate genes.

Results

Results without significant maternal‐cell contamination were obtained in 5003 of the 5180 (96.6%) cases. Clinically significant chromosomal abnormalities were identified in 59.1% (2955/5003) of these cases. Three recurrent submicroscopic CNVs (microdeletions in 22q11.21, 2q37.3 and 9p24.3p24.2) were significantly more frequent in miscarriage cases, and were considered to be associated with miscarriage. Moreover, 44 critical regions of large CNVs were observed, including 14 deletions and 30 duplications. There were 309 genes identified as potential miscarriage candidate genes through gene‐prioritization analysis.

Conclusions

We identified potential miscarriage candidate CNVs and genes. These data demonstrate the importance of CNVs in the etiology of miscarriage and highlight the importance of ongoing analysis of CNVs in the study of miscarriage. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.