bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
External carotid artery stenting in patients with ipsilateral internal carotid artery occlusion: Peri‐operative and 12‐month follow‐up
Authors: Dong Hui , Jiang Xiongjing , Zou Yubao , Chen Yang , He Jining , Deng Yu , Xu Bo , Gao Runlin
Published: February 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and clinical efficacy of external carotid artery (ECA) stenting in patients with ipsilateral internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion.

Background

In patients with ICA occlusion, severe ipsilateral ECA stenosis may exacerbate pre‐existing cerebral ischemia and cognitive impairment. It remains unclear whether ECA stenting to normalize ECA collaterals to the cerebralis alleviates cerebral ischemia and improves cognitive function.

Methods

From January 2008 to June 2019, we retrospectively collected clinical data of 36 consecutive patients with ipsilateral ICA occlusion who had undergone ECA stenting (mean age, 66.7 ± 8.3 years; males, n = 26 [72.2%]). Neurocognitive test results, including Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) tests, symptom assessment, and adverse events were recorded.

Results

ECA stenting was successful in all 36 patients. Intra‐operatively, six (16.7%) patients experienced hemodynamic depression during balloon dilation and recovered completely within 2 days. Within a 12‐month follow‐up period, two patients experienced a transient ischemic attack, one patient had a contralateral minor stroke, and 33 patients remained asymptomatic. No other adverse events occurred in the peri‐operative or follow‐up periods. Compared with baseline, significant MMSE (25.3 ± 1.3 vs. 23.6 ± 1.7; p < .05) and MOCA (24.1 ± 1.3 vs. 22.8 ± 1.7; p < .05) test score improvements were observed 3 months post‐operatively and were maintained throughout follow‐up.

Conclusions

ECA stenting may improve cerebral ischemia and cognitive function in patients with severe ECA stenosis and ipsilateral ICA occlusion; however, further research is required to support our findings.
Atypical presentation of ileocecal volvulus in a postpartum woman: a case report
Authors: Shirazi Mahboobeh , Feizabad Elham , Amini Harandi Maboubeh , Torkzaban Mehnoosh , Sharifi Maryam , Shirazi Mohammad , Ghaemi Marjan
Published: February 2021

Volvulus appears with unusual symptoms in pregnancy and postpartum, and if the clinicians do not consider it, the patient becomes complicated quickly. It seems that volvulus may cause obstetrics complications such as preterm delivery.
Cardiac magnetic resonance findings in coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Rezaeian Nahid , Hosseini Leila , Asadian Sanaz
Published: February 2021

A subgroup of COVID‐19 patients with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging evidence of myocardial inflammation may exhibit subendocardial fibrosis, compatible with myocardial infarction, while epicardial coronary arteries are normal.
α‐Co(OH)2 Thin‐Layered Cactus‐Like Nanostructures Wrapped Ni3S2 Nanowires: A Robust and Potential Catalyst for Electro‐oxidation of Hydrazine
Authors: Xie Yichun , Wang Zining , Wang Hui , Lu Lei , Subramanian Palaniappan , Ji Shan , Kannan Palanisamy
Published: February 2021

It is of significant urgency to fabricate highly active catalysts for electro‐oxidation of hydrazine for application in direct hydrazine fuel cells (DHFCs). Thus, in this work we grow three‐dimensional (3‐D) α‐Co(OH)2 thin‐layered cactus‐like nanostructures (shell) on the surface of Ni3S2 nanowires (core) enveloped nickel (Ni) foam substrate. HRTEM images clearly reveal that the α‐Co(OH)2 thin‐layered cactus‐like nanostructures (shell) are evenly surrounded on the surface of Ni3S2 nanowires (core). Notably, α‐Co(OH)2/Ni3S2 thin‐layered cactus‐like nanowires modified Ni foam displays an enhanced electro‐oxidation of hydrazine (340 mA current response and the onset oxidation potential of −1.10 V) than α‐Co(OH)2 sponge‐like, and Ni3S2 nanowire structures. The obtained enhanced electro‐catalytic response is mainly due to its electron rich Ni active centers, larger electrochemically active surface area, higher electrical conductivity, and porous surface‐structure formed by growing α‐Co(OH)2 thin‐layered cactus‐like nanostructures on the Ni3S2 nanowires, henceforth increasing the inherent activity and the number of available active sites/spots. Further, the α‐Co(OH)2/Ni3S2 thin‐layered cactus‐like nanowire catalyst shows notable stability (stable for more than a week) towards electro‐oxidation of hydrazine. Thus, as fabricated cactus‐like thin‐layered α‐Co(OH)2/Ni3S2 core‐shell nanowires catalyst can be considered as potential and robust catalyst for electro‐oxidation of hydrazine.
Regenerativer Strom aus Deutschland oder e‐Fuels aus Chile: Worauf sollte die zukünftige Mobilität bauen?
Authors: Machhammer Otto
Published: February 2021

Deutschland wird wahrscheinlich seinen zukünftigen Bedarf an regenerativem Strom nicht selbst decken können. Der Stromtransport aus Gegenden mit großem Erzeugungspotenzial für regenerativen Strom ist sehr teuer. Der Transport von e‐Fuels, wie Methanol, Benzin, Diesel oder Wasserstoff, ist hingegen billig, weil bis hin zu den Tankstellen auf eine bestehende Infrastruktur zurückgegriffen werden kann und der Transport von Flüssigkeiten über weite Strecken wesentlich kostengünstiger ist als der Transport von Strom. Bezieht man diese Randbedingungen in eine auf Prozesssimulationen basierende Kostenrechnung mit ein, ergeben sich für e‐Fuels, die in windreichen Gegenden Chiles erzeugt und an die deutschen Tankstellen geliefert werden, geringere spezifische Energiekosten als für regenerativen Strom, der in Deutschland erzeugt und über ein entsprechend ausgebautes Stromnetz an die Ladestationen transportiert wird.
Sudden cardiac death in HIV‐infected patients: A contemporary review
Authors: Narla Venkata A.
Published: February 2021

HIV‐infected individuals have an increased risk of sudden cardiac death compared to the general population; yet the mechanisms underlying this increased risk remain unclear. The mechanisms underlying the heightened sudden cardiac death risk in HIV‐infected individuals is likely multifactorial. We reviewed the literature to elucidate and summarize the potential mechanisms contributing to sudden cardiac death in the HIV patient population. There is biologic plausibility that the following mechanisms may be contributing to the significantly heightened risk of sudden cardiac death in HIV to varying degrees: ventricular arrhythmias, myocardial fibrosis and scar, prolonged QTc interval (both as a direct effect of HIV on repolarization as well as a result of concurrent medications/antiretroviral therapies), substance abuse, structural heart disease, and premature atherosclerosis. Further understanding of the mechanisms underlying the increased sudden cardiac death risk in HIV can lead to identification of modifiable risk factors, implementation of public health programs, and potential revision of ICD implantation guidelines to ultimately reduce the incidence of sudden cardiac death in HIV‐infected patients. Further studies are needed to assess the relative contribution of each of these mechanisms and risk factors.
Oral side effects of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy (ICIT): An analysis of 4683 patients receiving ICIT for malignancies at Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham & Women's Hospital, and the Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute, 2011 to 2019
Authors: Xu Yuanming , Wen Natalie , Sonis Stephen T. , Villa Alessandro
Published: February 2021

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly accepted as a treatment option for several cancers. Although various systemic immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) have been characterized, the effect of ICIs on the oral cavity and contiguous structures is still poorly understood.

Methods

Electronic medical records of 4683 patients in the Mass General Brigham Registered Patient Data Registry who received ICI therapy (ICIT) between December 2011 and September 2019 were reviewed. Reports of oral conditions were categorized into oral mucosal disorders, xerostomia, and dysgeusia. After applying exclusion criteria, demographic characteristics and clinical features were summarized for the patients who had oral irAEs.

Results

In total, 317 patients developed oral conditions that were associated with ICIT (incidence, 6.8%; 317 of 4683 patients). These conditions included xerostomia (68.5%), oral mucosal disorders (33.4%), and dysgeusia (24.0%). In patients with oral irAEs, respiratory cancer (28.4%) was the most common primary cancer, followed by melanoma (26.2%), and head and neck cancer (14.8%). Oral mucosal disorders developed after the initiation of ICIT between 2 and 851 days (between 1 and 1332 days in patients with xerostomia and between 1 and 1455 days in patients with dysgeusia). Of all oral irAEs, 50.9% developed within 3 months, and 85.5% developed within 12 months.

Conclusions

Oral side effects appear to be more common among patients who receive ICIT than has been previously reported. Concomitant cytotoxic regimens may exacerbate the risk of oral adverse events, perhaps representing the sum of the effects of different, but simultaneous or sequential, pathogenic mechanisms. Additional studies are warranted to better characterize oral irAEs and their biologic basis.
Racial disparity in prostate cancer in the African American population with actionable ideas and novel immunotherapies
Authors: Dovey Zachary S. , Nair Sujit S. , Chakravarty Dimple , Tewari Ashutosh K.
Published: February 2021

Background

African Americans (AAs) in the United States are known to have a higher incidence and mortality for Prostate Cancer (PCa). The drivers of this epidemiological disparity are multifactorial, including socioeconomic factors leading to lifestyle and dietary issues, healthcare access problems, and potentially tumor biology.

Recent findings

Although recent evidence suggests once access is equal, AA men have equal outcomes to Caucasian American (CA) men, differences in PCa incidence remain, and there is much to do to reverse disparities in mortality across the USA. A deeper understanding of these issues, both at the clinical and molecular level, can facilitate improved outcomes in the AA population. This review first discusses PCa oncogenesis in the context of its diverse hallmarks before benchmarking key molecular and genomic differences for PCa in AA men that have emerged in the recent literature. Studies have emphasized the importance of tumor microenvironment that contributes to both the unequal cancer burden and differences in clinical outcome between the races. Management of comorbidities like obesity, hypertension, and diabetes will provide an essential means of reducing prostate cancer incidence in AA men. Although requiring further AA specific research, several new treatment strategies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors used in combination PARP inhibitors and other emerging vaccines, including Sipuleucel‐T, have demonstrated some proven efficacy.

Conclusion

Genomic profiling to integrate clinical and genomic data for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment will allow physicians to plan a “Precision Medicine” approach to AA men. There is a pressing need for further research for risk stratification, which may allow early identification of AA men with higher risk disease based on their unique clinical, genomic, and immunological profiles, which can then be mapped to appropriate clinical trials. Treatment options are outlined, with a concise description of recent work in AA specific populations, detailing several targeted therapies, including immunotherapy. Also, a summary of current clinical trials involving AA men is presented, and it is important that policies are adopted to ensure that AA men are actively recruited. Although it is encouraging that many of these explore the lifestyle and educational initiatives and therapeutic interventions, there is much still work to be done to reduce incidence and mortality in AA men and equalize current racial disparities.
Hybrid Peptides Based on α‐Aminoxy Acids as Antimicrobial and Anticancer Foldamers
Authors: Sinatra Laura , Kolano Lisa , Icker Maik , Fritzsche Stefan R. , Volke Daniela , Gockel Ines , Thieme René , Hoffmann Ralf , Hansen Finn K.
Published: February 2021

α‐Aminoxy peptides represent an interesting group of peptidomimetics with high proteolytic stability and the ability to fold into specific, predictable secondary structures. Here, we present a series of hybrid peptides consisting of α‐aminoxy acids and α‐amino acids with cationic and aromatic, hydrophobic side chains in an alternating manner synthesized using an efficient protocol that combines solution‐ and solid‐phase synthesis. 2D ROESY experiments with a representative hexamer suggested the presence of a 7/8 helical conformation in solution. Biological evaluation revealed a significant impact of the peptide chain length and the N‐terminal cap on the antimicrobial and anticancer properties of this series of hybrid peptides. The Fmoc‐capped peptide 6e displayed the most potent antimicrobial activity against a panel of Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacterial strains (e. g. against E. Coli: MIC=8 mg/L; S. aureus: MIC=4 mg/L).
There is a paucity of economic evaluations of prediction methods of caries and periodontitis—A systematic review
Authors: Fransson Helena , Davidson Thomas , Rohlin Madeleine ,   The Foresight Research Consortium, Christell Helena
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Direct cost for methods of prediction also named risk assessment in dentistry may be negligible compared with the cost of extensive constructions. On the other hand, as risk assessment is performed daily and for several patients in general dental practice, the costs may be considerable. The objective was to summarize evidence in studies of economic evaluation of prognostic prediction multivariable models and methods of caries and periodontitis and to identify knowledge gaps (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020149763).

Material and methods

Four electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, NHS Economic Evaluation Database) and reference lists of included studies were searched. Titles and abstracts were screened by two reviewers in parallel. Full‐text studies reporting resources used, costs and cost‐effectiveness of prediction models and methods were selected and critically appraised using a protocol based on items from the CHEERS checklist for economic evaluations and the CHARMS checklist for evaluation of prediction studies.

Results

From 38 selected studies, six studies on prediction fulfilled the eligibility criteria, four on caries and two on periodontitis. As the economic evaluations differed in method and perspective among the studies, the results could not be generalized. Our systematic review revealed methodological shortcomings regarding the description of predictive models and methods, and particularly of the economic evaluation.

Conclusions

The systematic review highlighted a paucity of economic evaluations regarding methods or multivariable models for prediction of caries and periodontitis. Our results indicate that what we currently practice using models and methods to predict caries and periodontitis lacks evidence regarding cost‐effectiveness.
Coexisting when living next door: The agreements neighbors make in mediation
Authors: Adrian Lin , Fjell Solfrid Mykland
Published: February 2021

How do neighbors reconcile their differences in mediated agreements? Based on a content analysis of agreements from a mediation project in housing associations, our study outlines the characteristics of mediated agreements in conflicts between neighbors in rented apartments. This study demonstrates how neighbors pursue neutral coexistence by taking steps to regulate their future behavior and communication and to manage future conflicts. We suggest that the agreements can be labeledinteraction agreementsand that these are conceptually different from other types of agreements. Our analysis also points to the inherent risk of mediation contributing to an individualization of structural and collective problems.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Benzimidazoles via Dehydrogenative Cyclization of Amidines
Authors: Zhao Huai‐Bo , Zhuang Jin‐Liang , Xu Hai‐Chao
Published: February 2021

The development of efficient and sustainable methodologies for the synthesis of N‐heterocycles is a constant focus of organic synthesis. Herein an electrochemical method is reported for the synthesis of benzimidazoles through dehydrogenative cyclization of easily available N‐aryl amidines. The reactions were conducted under simple constant current conditions in an undivided cell without need for catalysts, chemical oxidants, or additives, and produced H2 as the only theoretical byproduct.
Review of efficiency enhancement techniques and linearization techniques for power amplifier
Authors: Singh Sukwinder , Malik Jagannath
Published: February 2021

Power amplifier is one of the most important module of transceiver design. Linearity and efficiency are the two main areas of improvement in power amplifier design. Fifth generation (5G) mobile communication is one of the most important application of power amplifier, which require power amplifiers that are extremely linear and efficient. In this paper, review of different efficiency enhancement and linearization techniques has been undertaken. Basic architecture, advantages, and challenges of efficiency enhancement techniques—outphasing, Doherty, and envelope tracking—have been discussed. Linearization techniques—feedback, feedforward, and predistortion—have also been discussed in this paper.
Quasi‐constant bus voltage CrCM boost PFC fed LLC resonant converter in high power LED lighting systems
Authors: Pal Somnath , Singh Bhim , Shrivastava Ashish
Published: February 2021

This paper deals with a two‐stage LED (light emitting diode) driver on the basis of front‐end boost converter operating in critical conduction mode (CrCM) and second stage LLC resonant converter for driving an LED lighting load. The boost converter operates in the valley switching mode to reduce switching power loss with less component stress. The ZVS (zero voltage switching) operation of both the half‐bridge semiconductor switching devices reduces the switching losses, which improves the system efficiency. Moreover, to ensure the stability of the DC‐bus voltage, state‐space analysis is also carried out for the CrCM boost converter. The first stage provides the power factor correction (PFC) over the universal AC mains and maintains a constant DC‐bus for the next stage. The second‐stage converter maintains a ripple‐free output voltage to an LED load. This circuit has reasonably minimized the design complexity as compared with single‐stage variable DC‐bus PFC integrated resonant converters and also gives improved efficiency in an isolated configuration. In order to validate the system, a 150‐W prototype is investigated, and experimental findings are analyzed in‐line with theoretical results at universal AC mains.
Acceleration of vector bilateral filtering for hyperspectral imaging with GPU
Authors: Chen Chong
Published: February 2021

For hyperspectral imaging, the vector bilateral filter usually leads to better performance when compared with the traditional 2D bilateral filter. However, the large computation complexity of vector bilateral filtering makes it an extremely time cost algorithm. To overcome this challenge, a GPU‐based acceleration for vector bilateral filtering called vBF_GPU was proposed in this paper. To improve the efficiency of the cache memory usage, multiple CUDA threads were utilized to processing one pixel of the hyperspectral image in vBF_GPU. The memory access operation of vBF_GPU was fully optimized to reduce the memory access cost of the GPU program. The experiment results indicated that vBF_GPU can provide more than 30× speedup when compared with an octa‐core CPU implementation and more than 20× speedup when compared with a naïve GPU implementation of vector bilateral filtering.
Circular RNA TRAPPC6B inhibits intracellular Mycobacterium tuberculosis growth while inducing autophagy in macrophages by targeting microRNA‐874‐3p
Authors: Luo Hou‐Long , Pi Jiang , Zhang Jun‐Ai , Yang En‐Zhuo , Xu Huan , Luo Hong , Shen Ling , Peng Ying , Liu Gan‐Bin , Song Cai‐Mei , Li Ke‐Yue , Wu Xian‐Jin , Zheng Bi‐Ying , Shen Hong‐Bo , Chen Zheng W , Xu Jun‐Fa
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms regulate antimicrobial immunity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection.

Methods

The present study assessed circular RNA TRAPPC6B (circTRAPPC6B) for antimicrobial immune functions and defined mechanisms wherein circTRAPPC6B regulates Mtb growth, autophagy and microRNA in macrophages.

Results

The Mtb infection of monocytes/macrophages resulted in a significantly decreased level of circTRAPPC6B that inhibited intracellular Mtb growth in macrophages. Conversely, circTRAPPC6B expression enhanced autophagy or autophagy‐associated protein LC3‐II production in Mtb‐infected macrophages. circTRAPPC6B‐enhanced autophagy aggregation or sequestration was also observed in fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) analysis and confocal imaging. Mechanistically, circTRAPPC6B targets an inhibiting element miR‐874‐3p, as shown by bioinformatics, dual‐luciferase reporter gene analysis and pull‐down assay, respectively. Notably, miR‐874‐3p prohibited autophagy via suppressing autophagy protein ATG16L1 by binding to its 3′‐untranslated region (UTR) in Mtb‐infected macrophages and thus promoting intracellular Mtb growth. Concurrently, circTRAPPC6B enhanced autophagy in Mtb‐infected macrophages by blocking the ability of miR‐874‐3p to inhibit ATG16L1. Thus, circTRAPPC6B antagonises the ability of miR‐874‐3p to suppress ATG16L1 expression and activate and enhance autophagy sequestration to restrict Mtb growth in macrophages.

Conclusion

The current findings suggested that both circTRAPPC6B and miR‐874‐3p mechanisms can be explored as potential therapeutics against Mtb infection.
Evaluation of tissue and serum lipocalin 2 in psoriasis vulgaris and its implications on subclinical atherosclerosis
Authors: Hassab‐El‐Naby Hussein M. , Helal Ehab A. , Abdou Adel M. , Abu Elkheir Ola A. , Elsaie Mohamed L. , Ibrahim Shady M.
Published: February 2021

Lipocalin‐2 (LCN2) has been identified as an adipokine but its role in psoriasis has not been fully elucidated. The study aimed to evaluate serum and tissue levels of LCN2 in patients with plaque‐type psoriasis and its correlation with C‐reactive protein (CRP), disease duration, severity, and subclinical atherosclerosis. Thirty patients with psoriasis and another 15 healthy age and sex matching controls were included and LCN2 was assessed in serum and tissue from patients and controls. Total lipid profile and high‐sensitivity CRP were also measured. Carotid artery intima media thickness was determined by using high‐resolution mode ultrasound in both patients and controls. Results showed statistically higher serum and tissue levels of LCN2 in patients than controls (p = .009 and p = .025, respectively). A significant difference in the right and left IMT was noted between patients and controls (p = .02 and p = .04). In conclusion, patients with psoriasis are found to be at increased risk of atherosclerosis.
The impact of oxytocin on neurite outgrowth and synaptic proteins in Magel2‐deficient mice
Authors: Reichova Alexandra , Schaller Fabienne , Bukatova Stanislava , Bacova Zuzana , Muscatelli Françoise , Bakos Jan
Published: February 2021

Oxytocin contributes to the regulation of cytoskeletal and synaptic proteins and could, therefore, affect the mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. Both the Prader‐Willi syndrome and Schaaf‐Yang syndrome exhibit autistic symptoms involving the MAGEL2 gene. Magel2‐deficient mice show a deficit in social behavior that is rescued following the postnatal administration of oxytocin. Here, in Magel2‐deficient mice, we showed that the neurite outgrowth of primary cultures of immature hippocampal neurons is reduced. Treatment with oxytocin reversed this abnormality. In the hippocampus of Magel2‐deficient pups, we further demonstrated that several transcripts of neurite outgrowth‐associated proteins, synaptic vesicle proteins, and cell‐adhesion molecules are decreased. In the juvenile stage, when neurons are mature, normalization or even overexpression of most of these markers was observed, suggesting a delay in the neuronal maturation of Magel2‐deficient pups. Moreover, we found reduced transcripts of the excitatory postsynaptic marker, Psd95 in the hippocampus and we observed a decrease of PSD95/VGLUT2 colocalization in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions in Magel2‐deficient mice, indicating a defect in glutamatergic synapses. Postnatal administration of oxytocin upregulated postsynaptic transcripts in pups; however, it did not restore the level of markers of glutamatergic synapses in Magel2‐deficient mice. Overall, Magel2 deficiency leads to abnormal neurite outgrowth and reduced glutamatergic synapses during development, suggesting abnormal neuronal maturation. Oxytocin stimulates the expression of numerous genes involved in neurite outgrowth and synapse formation in early development stages. Postnatal oxytocin administration has a strong effect on development that should be considered for certain neuropsychiatric conditions in infancy.
Using an Electrochemical MIP Sensor for Selective Determination of 1‐Naphthol in Oilfield Produced Water
Authors: Bartilotti Mariana , Beluomini Maísa Azevedo , Boldrin Zanoni Maria Valnice
Published: February 2021

A molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) sensor was successfully constructed on glassy carbon electrode for the determination of 1‐naphthol (1‐Nph). The sensor was constructed by electropolymerization on bare GCE in the presence of the target molecule. The recognition of 1‐Nph was conducted indirectly using [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− as redox probe. The MIP sensor presented wide linear working range and limit of detection of 1.5×10−9 mol L−1. The MIP sensor was applied for the determination of 1‐Nph in oilfield produced water. The results obtained showed good selectivity and sensitivity of the proposed sensor in terms of 1‐Nph quantification.
Structural Features of the Algal Cell Determine Adhesion Behavior at a Charged Interface
Authors: Novosel Nives , Ivošević DeNardis Nadica
Published: February 2021

We aimed to examine the effects of algal structural features on adhesion at a charged interface. Results showed that algae with a glycocalyx, and with a cellulose amphiesma adhered at a charged interface at species‐specific potential ranges. Algae, encased with a calcite‐encrusted theca, and with an organosilicate cell wall, did not adhere to the interface. These differences in the amperometrically determined adhesion behavior of algal cells are in agreement with reported cell mechanical properties. Critical interfacial tensions of adhesion show differences between the studied soft algal cells as a consequence of their distinct cell barrier structure, composition, and properties.
Comparing estimation of the parameters of distribution of the root density of plants in the presence of outliers
Authors: Jabbari Nooghabi Mehdi
Published: February 2021

The root density of plants with depth follows exponential or the Lindley distribution in the presence of outliers generated from a uniform distribution. In this article, we estimate the parameters of the Lindley distribution in the presence of outliers generated from a uniform distribution based on the moment, maximum likelihood, least squares, weighted least squares, percentile, Cramer–von‐Mises, and Anderson–Darling methods and mixture estimator of moment and maximum likelihood. These methods of estimation are compared. Also, the estimators of the parameters of Lindley‐uniform contaminated distribution are compared with the corresponding estimators of exponential‐uniform contaminated distribution, which was presented by Dixit and Nasiri, Metron, 59(3–4), 187–198 (2001). Furthermore, an analysis of an actual example of the root length of plants is presented for illustrative purposes. It is concluded that the Lindley‐uniform contaminated distribution is more appropriate than the exponential‐uniform contaminated distribution to model the root density of plants.
Toxic Responses of Palladium Accumulation in Duckweed (Lemna minor): Determination of Biomarkers
Authors: Jmii Souleimen , Dewez David
Published: February 2021

Palladium (Pd) is a trace metal of the platinum group elements, representing an emerging contaminant for the environment. It is of great interest to characterize the bioaccumulation and toxicity of Pd to improve our toxicological knowledge for this contaminant. Under standardized toxicity testing conditions, we analyzed Pd accumulation and toxicity effects on the duckweed Lemna minor exposed to nominal concentrations from 2 to 50 µM. The inhibitory effect was significant (p < 0.05) from 8 µM of Pd, starting with 9.5% of growth inhibition and a decrease of 1 cm for the root size. Under 12.5 μM of Pd, the bioaccumulated Pd of 63.93 µg/g fresh weight inhibited plant growth by 37.4%, which was caused by a strong oxidative stress in the cytosol and organelles containing DNA. Under 25 and 50 μM of Pd, bioaccumulated Pd was able to deteriorate the entire plant physiology including chlorophyll synthesis, the photosystem II antenna complex, and the photochemical reactions of photosynthesis. In fact, plants treated with 50 μM Pd accumulated Pd up to 255.95 µg/g fresh weight, causing a strong decrease in total biomass and root elongation process. Therefore, we showed several growth, physiological, and biochemical alterations which were correlated with the bioaccumulation of Pd. These alterations constituted toxicity biomarkers of Pd with different lowest-observed-effect dose, following this order: root size = growth inhibition < catalase activity = carotenoid content = reactive oxygen species production = total thiols < chlorophyll a/b = variable fluorescence to maximal fluorescence intensity ratio = absorbed-light energy transfer from the chlorophyll a antenna to the photosystem II reaction center = performance index of photosystem II activity < VJ. Therefore, the present study provides insight into the toxicity mechanism of Pd in L. minor plants under standardized testing conditions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1630–1638. © 2021 SETAC
Ecosystem engineering in the Quaternary of the West Coast of South Africa
Authors: Braun David R. , Faith John Tyler , Douglass Matthew J. , Davies Benjamin , Power Mitchel J. , Aldeias Vera , Conard Nicholas J. , Cutts Russell , DeSantis Larisa R. G. , Dupont Lydie M. , Esteban Irene , Kandel Andrew W. , Levin Naomi E. , Luyt Julie , Parkington John , Pickering Robyn , Quick Lynne , Sealy Judith , Stynder Deano
Published: February 2021

Despite advances in our understanding of the geographic and temporal scope of the Paleolithic record, we know remarkably little about the evolutionary and ecological consequences of changes in human behavior. Recent inquiries suggest that human evolution reflects a long history of interconnections between the behavior of humans and their surrounding ecosystems (e.g., niche construction). Developing expectations to identify such phenomena is remarkably difficult because it requires understanding the multi‐generational impacts of changes in behavior. These long‐term dynamics require insights into the emergent phenomena that alter selective pressures over longer time periods which are not possible to observe, and are also not intuitive based on observations derived from ethnographic time scales. Generative models show promise for probing these potentially unexpected consequences of human‐environment interaction. Changes in the uses of landscapes may have long term implications for the environments that hominins occupied. We explore other potential proxies of behavior and examine how modeling may provide expectations for a variety of phenomena.
Phase behavior and rheological properties of basil seed gum/whey protein isolate mixed dispersions and gels
Authors: Sarabi‐Aghdam Vahideh , Hosseini‐Parvar Seyed H. , Motamedzadegan Ali , Razi Saeed Mirarab
Published: February 2021

Many food formulations comprise proteins and polysaccharides simultaneously, contributing in the functional properties in food systems. In this study, the effects of basil seed gum (BSG) addition to whey protein isolate (WPI) dispersions were investigated through phase behavior, steady shear flow, and small amplitude oscillatory shear tests (SAOS). The phase behavior of WPI‐BSG mixed solutions was dependent on the initial concentration of biopolymers, while the effect of BSG was predominant. Herschel–Bulkley model characterized the flow behavior of ternary mixtures, very well. Furthermore, apparent viscosity, the extent of thixotropy and viscoelastic behavior enhanced with increase in BSG concentration, significantly (p ˂ .05). Temperature sweep measurements showed a reduction in WPI gelling temperature by increase in BSG concentration. SEM results depending on BSG concentration revealed the protein continuous, bicontinuous, and polysaccharide continuous networks. Phase separation may be attributed to depletion flocculation and thermodynamic incompatibility of WPI and BSG molecules. The results confirmed the occurrence of phase separation and weak‐gel formation through mixtures, but the rate of gelation was more than the phase separation. In consequence, these results may open up new horizons in developing novel food products and delivery systems as well as utilizing as emulsifying, thickening and gelling agents in food and pharmaceutical industry.
Effect of encapsulated edible halophyte with different biopolymers on the inhibition of sodium absorption in mouse
Authors: Jung Eun Young , Lee Seung Yun , Lee Da Young , Kim On You , Park Yeonhwa , Hur Sun Jin
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of edible halophyte Salicornia herbacea encapsulated with biopolymers on inhibition of sodium absorption in mouse. Salicornia herbacea encapsulated with four biopolymers (pectin, chitosan, cellulose and dextrin) were fed to mice for 48 hr, and inhibiting sodium absorption was measured. In primary in vitro condition, fresh Salicornia herbacea encapsulated with 1% cellulose had 40% binding rate. Juice residue Salicornia herbacea encapsulated with 1% chitosan had the highest sodium binding rate by 50%. In mouse model, fresh, juice, and juice residue of Salicornia herbacea encapsulated with 4% chitosan had the highest sodium absorption inhibitory rate by 19%. These results indicate that biopolymer‐encapsulated Salicornia herbacea could be combined with sodium under in vitro condition, and Salicornia herbacea encapsulated with biopolymers reduced sodium absorption in a mouse model. Chitosan and cellulose had the highest sodium absorption inhibitory effects compared with the other biopolymers.
The effect of grape seed protein hydrolysate on the properties of stirred yogurt and viability of Lactobacillus casei in it
Authors: Varedesara Mahnaz Samadi , Ariaii Peiman , Hesari Javad
Published: February 2021

In this study, the effect of grape seed protein hydrolysate (GPH) on the physicochemical and sensory properties of stirred yogurt was evaluated. At first, the antioxidant properties and degree of hydrolysis (DH) of GPH were determined using the microbial protease enzymes (alcalase and flavourzyme), the results showed that alcalase enzyme can produce GPH with higher DH and antioxidant properties (p < .05). Also, increasing the hydrolysis time had a positive effect on these properties (p < .05). The DH, free radical scavenging DPPH, and ferric reducing power for GPH by alcalase at 30 min was 21.51%, 88.68%, and 0.33 μmol ferrous/ g, respectively. Therefore, this treatment was used for further experiments. In the next part, the mentioned GPH was added to the stirred yogurt with three concentrations (0.5, 1.5, and 1.5%) and physicochemical properties and viability of Lactobacillus casei and sensory properties were measured during 15 days of storage. The results showed that the GPH treatment had higher pH, viscosity, and texture firmness and less acidity and syneresis compared with the control sample (p < .05). Also, in these samples, the decreasing trend of L. casei viability was slower than the control treatment during the storage period (p < .05). In most parameters, better results were observed with increasing the concentration GPH and all the treatments were acceptable in terms of sensory properties. Therefore, by producing yogurt containing GPH, a new functional food can be provided for consumers of dairy products, which in addition to the desired taste, good nutritional properties can be also achieved from its consumption.
Scale‐oriented landslide monitoring and early warning system for uranium legacy complexes in Mailuu Suu, Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Keuschnig Markus , Schober Andreas , Delleske Robert , Brandner Katharina , Höfer‐Öllinger Giorgio
Published: February 2021

Radioactive waste and the legacies of uranium mining combined with massive landslides pose tremendous risks to vast areas of Kyrgyzstan and their inhabitants. These risks comprise the potential destruction of radioactive legacies and thus, the mobilisation of radioactive material through streams and rivers into intensively cultivated agricultural areas. To tackle these challenges, a scale‐oriented landslide monitoring and early warning system (LMEWS) was developed to increase the safety of Kyrgyz uranium legacy complexes in the Mailuu Suu region, southern Kyrgyzstan. The LMEWS utilizes cutting‐edge technologies like satellite‐ and ground‐based InSAR as well as Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to ensure flexibility, transferability, and maximum protection against vandalism.
Long‐term monitoring of visually not inspectable tunnel linings using fibre optic sensing
Authors: Grunicke Urs H. , Lienhart Werner , Vorwagner Alois
Published: February 2021

Regular structural assessments of tunnel linings are commonly performed by visual inspection. Crack phenomena and their development over time are essential indicators of changes of the stress regimen. These are the most prominent input data for the structural assessment of linings. Cladding for fire protection or noise control inhibit visual inspection and call for alternative methods of crack detection and monitoring. This paper presents the application of an alternative method which employs distributed fibre optic sensing (DFOS) which is installed on already existing linings. The objective is to obtain monitoring results with best reliability in comparison to conventional inspection. While the application of DFOS with fibres embedded in new linings has already been tested extensively, later installation on existing linings poses various challenges. Based on findings obtained from laboratory and field tests in an operational highway tunnel, we found that by means of later installed fibres with lengths of up to 70 m, strain measurements can achieve accuracies of about 1 µm/m over 10 mm. This allows the detection of both current and historical crack widths at 0.01 mm precision, conspicuous strain patterns and temperature abnormalities. The system can be mounted onto the inner lining surface which is covered by later claddings and are hence inaccessible to visual inspection. The structural performance can eventually be inferred from interpreted crack patterns.
Delineating the shallow‐marine stratigraphic traps of Lower‐Cretaceous incised valley sedimentation, Pakistan using post‐stack seismic colour inversion
Authors: Naseer Muhammad Tayyab
Published: February 2021

Sub‐surface incised marine valleys form good reservoirs globally. Subsurface heterogeneities within thin‐bedded shallow‐marine sedimentary systems are complex developing petroleum plays during hydrocarbon exploration. A seismic colour inversion (SCI) tool is a useful component in seismic data analysis for predicting porous and hydrocarbon‐bearing reservoirs. In the present study, SCI was used for the demarcation of gas‐bearing stratigraphic sequences within the Indus Basin, SE Pakistan. The SCI better characterizes the gas‐bearing sand‐fills within the incised‐valley reservoir compared to the absolute average amplitude (AAA) derived from surface seismic data. The SCI tool enhances the structural configuration of numerous system tracts; including the lowstand system tract (LST) and transgressive systems tract (TST): phase shifts reveal ‘sweet‐spots’ within the faulted and sand‐filled incised valley. The gas‐bearing sand‐filled incised valley of the LST experiences phase reversals with SCI magnitudes of −5900 g/c.c.*m/s, which reflect the bright seismic responses for stratigraphic‐based reservoir characterization, and hence it may act as a direct hydrocarbon indicator (DHI). The TST, which proves to be the non‐reservoir segments of seal sediments, brightens the high‐acoustic impedance (A.I) SCI magnitudes of 5900 g/c.c.*m/s. Facies modelling discriminates the transgressive seal and regressive coarse‐grained sandstone‐filled incised valleys. A cross‐plot of SCI with net‐to‐gross (N/G) and porosity evidence remains an accurate thickness and porosity effects for sand‐filled incised valley reservoirs than compared to AAA.
The impact of caregiver's depressive symptoms on trajectories of cognitive function in older adults with functional limitations
Authors: Jiang Nan , Sun Qian , Lou Vivian W. Q.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Family caregivers are important to older adults' health, but few studies have examined how caregivers' mental health is associated with older adults' cognitive function. This study examined the trajectories of cognitive function of older adults and whether caregivers' depressive symptoms shape the pattern of cognitive function trajectories.

Methods

This 6‐year longitudinal sample consisted 1188 older adults aged ≥75 years with deficits in activities of daily living (ADL) and their family caregivers in Shanghai, China (Rounds 1–3). Cognitive function trajectories were identified based on an enhanced group‐based trajectory modeling that accounted for nonrandom attrition. Multinomial logistic regression tested the association between caregivers' depressive symptoms and older adults' cognitive function trajectory.

Results

Three trajectory groups were identified: a “newly onset” group (50.4%) had an increased risk of being cognitive impaired during the 6‐year period; a “never” group (46.2%) remained cognitive active; and a “chronic” group was largely persistently cognitive impaired (3.4%). Caregivers' depressive symptoms increased the relative risk of having the “onset” or “chronic” versus “never” trajectory. Among the four dimensions of depressive symptoms, only somatic complaints were associated with a higher risk of the “newly onset” trajectory in 6 years.

Conclusion

The progression of cognitive function among older adults with deficits in ADL followed three distinct trajectories during a 6‐year period. Addressing the mental health of caregivers may prevent or delay progression of cognitive impairment among older adults.
Is loneliness associated with mild cognitive impairment in low‐ and middle‐income countries?
Authors: Smith Lee , Bloska Jodie , Jacob Louis , Barnett Yvonne , Butler Laurie , Trott Mike , Odell‐Miller Helen , Veronese Nicola , Kostev Karel , Bettac Erica L , Godier‐McBard Lauren , Koyanagi Ai
Published: February 2021

Background

Loneliness may be a risk factor for mild cognitive impairment but studies on this topic are scarce, particularly from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association between loneliness and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in six LMICs (China, Ghana, India, Mexico, Russia and South Africa).

Methods

Cross‐sectional, community‐based, nationally representative data from the WHO Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) were analyzed. The definition of MCI was based on the National Institute on Ageing‐Alzheimer's Association criteria. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and meta‐analysis were conducted to assess associations.

Results

The final analytical sample consisted of 19,092 and 13,623 individuals aged 50–64 years (middle‐aged adults) and ≥65 years (older adults), respectively. Among the middle‐aged, overall, loneliness was associated with a non‐significant 1.43 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.93–2.21) times higher odds for MCI although significant associations were observed in China (OR = 1.51; 95%CI = 1.08–2.09) and South Africa (OR = 3.87; 95%CI = 1.72–8.71). As for older adults, overall, there was a significant association between loneliness and MCI (OR = 1.52; 95%CI = 1.12–2.07).

Conclusion

In this large representative sample of middle‐aged and older adults from multiple LMICs, findings suggest that loneliness is associated with MCI. It may be prudent to consider reducing loneliness in low‐economic settings to aid in the prevention of MCI and ultimately dementia.
Quality metrics for head and neck cancer treated with definitive radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy
Authors: Elsharawi Radwa , Antonucci Eric , Sukari Ammar , Cramer John D.
Published: February 2021

Background

The standardization of quality measures has been key in advancing the aims of the National Quality Forum established to improve health outcomes.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was used to identify eligible patients. Two quality metrics were evaluated including time to treatment initiation (TTI) and chemotherapy in locoregionally head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Results

TTI was significantly associated with mortality reflected by a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.13 for 60–90 days of TTI (95% CI 1.08–1.17), 1.19 for >90 days of TTI (95% CI 1.13–1.26). Patients with locoregionally advanced HNSCC had an 87% adherence to chemotherapy, which correlated with reduced mortality (HR 0.57; 95% CI 0.55–0.59). Patients treated at high quality centers had a 9% increase in survival (HR 0.91; 95% CI 0.88–0.93).

Conclusion

We identified that both TTI and chemotherapy for locoregionally advanced HNSCC meet criteria for valid quality metrics potentially suitable for national adoption.