bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macrophages in the pancreas: Villains by circumstances, not necessarily by actions
Authors: Cruz Andrea F. , Rohban Rokhsareh , Esni Farzad
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Mounting evidence suggest that macrophages play crucial roles in disease and tissue regeneration. However, despite much efforts during the past decade, our knowledge about the extent of macrophages' contribution to adult pancreatic regeneration after injury or during pancreatic disease progression is still limited. Nevertheless, it is generally accepted that some macrophage features that normally would contribute to healing and regeneration may be detrimental in pancreatic cancer. Altogether, the current literature contains conflicting reports on whether macrophages act as friends or foe in these conditions.

Methods and Results

In this review, we briefly review the origins of tissue resident and infiltrating macrophages and the importance of cellular crosstalking between macrophages and other resident cells in tissue regeneration. The primary objective of this review is to summarize our knowledge of the distinct roles of tissue resident and infiltrating macrophages, the impact of M1 and M2 macrophage phenotypes, and emerging evidence on macrophage crosstalking in pancreatic injury, regeneration, and disease.

Conclusion

Macrophages are involved with various stages of pancreatic cancer development, pancreatitis, and diabetes. Elucidating their role in these conditions will aid the development of targeted therapeutic treatments.
The relation between duration of insolvency proceedings and their efficiency (with a particular emphasis on Polish experiences)
Authors: Kruczalak‐Jankowska Joanna , Maśnicka Monika , Machnikowska Anna
Published: September 2020

The following article addresses the issue of the duration of insolvency proceedings (both winding‐up and reorganization) and its influence on the efficiency of the proceedings. The previous opinion presented in the literature, according to which shorter and cheaper insolvency proceedings contribute to establishing enterprises, has been recently reflected in a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on preventive restructuring frameworks. It expressly states that the excessive length of restructuring, insolvency and discharge procedures is an important factor triggering low recovery rates and deterring investors from doing business in jurisdictions where procedures risk taking too long and being too costly. It was also pointed out that reducing the length of restructuring procedures would result in higher recovery rates for creditors as the passing of time would normally only result in a further loss of value for the enterprise. Moreover, to promote efficiency and reduce delays and costs, the EU Directive recommends introducing flexible preventive restructuring frameworks. The research carried out within the ACURIA project, particularly interviews, allows us to answer the question about possible discrepancies between the law on the books and the law in action with respect to provisions on duration of the proceedings. Based mainly on the case study and the interviews with practitioners, this article shows that, despite a relatively modern framework, the length of the proceedings may not be satisfactory and ‐ in the case of Poland–is due to non‐legal factors and “law in action,” which are both basic barriers to the implementation of the time limits for proceedings introduced by the legislator. The study confirms that the thesis that the statement about the need to reduce the excessive length of insolvency procedures in many of the EU Member States resulting in legal uncertainty for creditors and investors and low recovery rates is true. It will also be demonstrated, however, that the duration of the proceedings is only one of the criteria for assessing the effectiveness of the proceedings, along with the costs and recovery rate. It has been pointed out in the interviews that, in practice, there are proceedings in which, due to the deliberate extension of proceedings, all creditors ultimately have been fully satisfied.
External debt in developing countries since HIPC and MDRI: What are the driving factors?
Authors: Mijiyawa Abdoul' Ganiou
Published: September 2020

This article analyses the trend of external debt and its drivers in the heavily indebted poor countries (HIPCs) in the post‐debt relief initiatives. Focusing on the largest component of external debt in HIPCs, that is, public and publicly guaranteed external debt, the data reveal that these countries have started accumulating external debt again few years after debt relief under HIPC and MDRI. Specifically, though the average external debt‐to‐GDP ratio has declined by 22% points between 2005 and 2016, since 2012, however, external debt has steadily increased in HIPCs. Using panel data over the period 2005–2016, the article finds that economic growth rate, nominal exchange rate and remittance inflows negatively and significantly affect the ratio of external debt‐to‐GDP. The article also finds the persistence of external debt. However, more preference has been given to countries with better policies and institutions for the access to external debt.
Crocin treatment promotes the oxidative stress and apoptosis in human thyroid cancer cells FTC‐133 through the inhibition of STAT/JAK signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Yonggang , Zhu Meng , Krishna Mohan Surapaneni , Hao Zhi
Published: September 2020

Thyroid cancer is the most frequent endocrine malignancy, which accounts for nearly 1% of all the cancer worldwide. Crocin has a diverse biological function, such as anti‐cancer, anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant functions, specifically in the respiratory related diseases. Using in vitro techniques, this work was intended to illuminate the anti‐cancer effect of crocin in follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) (FT 133 cells), and the potential molecular mechanism convoluted. The outcome of the present work showed that crocin was able to prevent the proliferation and triggering the apoptosis in a dose‐dependent mode, of FTC‐133 cells by methyl thiazolyldiphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide and staining assay (acridine orange/propiduim iodide [PI], 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole, and PI dye). Crocin did not show toxicity to the normal thyroid (PCCL3) cells. Crocin‐induced reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential activity, caspase‐8 and ‐9, lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) activity while suppressing antioxidant activity (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione) in FTC‐133 cells. In addition, crocin was also participated in a halting of the proteins related to cell cycle, cyclin D1, and pro‐apoptotic proteins; Bax and caspase‐3 expression, together with the elevation of anti‐apoptotic factor Bcl‐2. Further, crocin have a dual inhibition of two major pathways, nuclear factor‐κB, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, and janus kinase‐signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathways. In conclusion, crocin can inhibit follicular thyroid carcinoma proliferation and promote cell apoptosis.
Tanshinone II A improves the chemosensitivity of breast cancer cells to doxorubicin by inhibiting β‐catenin nuclear translocation
Authors: Li Shizheng , Wu Chunxia , Fan Chenxing , Zhang Puwei , Yu Guifa , Li Kun
Published: September 2020

Numerous evidence link aberrant nuclear β‐catenin accumulation to the development of breast cancer resistance, therefore, targeted inhibition of β‐catenin nuclear translocation may effectively improve the chemosensitivity of breast cancer. Doxorubicin (Dox) is the most commonly used chemotherapeutic drug for breast cancer. Here, we determined that tanshinone II A (Tan II A) could improve the sensitivity of Dox‐resistant breast cancer MCF‐7/dox cells to Dox, and evaluated whether the sensitization effect of Tan II A on Dox was targeted to inhibit β‐catenin nuclear translocation. The results showed that Tan II A not only significantly inhibited the nuclear translocation of β‐catenin in MCF‐7/dox cells treated by Dox but also inhibited the nuclear translocation of β‐catenin in MCF‐7 cells treated by Dox to a certain degree. Furthermore, when the above two cells treated by Dox combined with Tan II A were intervened with β‐catenin agonist WAY‐262611, with the re‐nuclear translocation of β‐catenin in the cells, the sensitization effect of Tan II A on Dox was greatly reduced. These results indicated that Tan II A could improve the chemosensitivity of breast cancer cells to Dox by inhibiting β‐catenin nuclear translocation. Therefore, Tan II A could be used as a potential chemosensitizer in combination with Dox for breast cancer chemotherapy.
From static to dynamic cost structures: The case of the railroad industry
Authors: Rozycki John , Suh Inchul , Root Thomas
Published: September 2020

Firms with fixed operating costs have high operating leverage. This leverage increases the sensitivity of earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) to changes in revenues. Railroads have high fixed costs and high operating leverage. One would rationally expect that a substantial and secular decline in this industry's revenues would lead to severe and negative effects on operating income and free cash flow. The industry did indeed experience a secular decline in its most important business segment, hauling bituminous coal. In this clinical investigation, we use this unique industry event to study operating leverage and changes to the industry's cost structure. Using several methodologies, we measure the changes in the industry's cost structure and we demonstrate how the changes mitigated the expected negative effects of its revenue decline. Additionally, we demonstrate that static measures of an industry's cost structure are likely to produce suboptimal forecasts. Finally, our findings have implications for financial planning and valuation of firms with high operating leverage, and they provide a renewed impetus for research into the dynamic relationship between fixed and variable costs.
Genetic counseling service delivery models: A study of genetic counselors’ interests, needs, and barriers to implementation
Authors: Boothe Emily , Greenberg Samantha , Delaney Christine L. , Cohen Stephanie A.
Published: September 2020

As demand for genetic services grows, innovative genetic counseling service delivery models (SDMs) are needed. However, there is limited research on the barriers and needs of genetic counselors (GCs) interested in implementing new SDMs into their practice. In fall 2017, the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) Access and Service Delivery Committee’s SDM Subcommittee sent an online survey to the NSGC membership regarding the use of SDMs, which aimed to update the understanding of current SDM use and how this has changed over time. The survey included several questions with open‐response components assessing the need for new SDMs and barriers to implementation. Inductive thematic analysis was used to identify common themes. Among 517 usable responses (16% response rate), more than half (54.4%) of respondents indicated their current SDM was inadequate to address the patient need in their area. Nearly two‐thirds (64.8%) indicated they were in the process of or planning to make changes to their SDM, although 40.6% did not have a specific timeline. Three major themes related to expanding access, reimbursement for services, and lack of support were identified from responses to questions about implementation of additional SDMs. Access included subthemes of geographic and physical location limitations, addressing long wait times, and the need to expand services. Reimbursement for services included issues with billing, genetic counselor licensure, and limitations due to the need for physician involvement in billing. The lack of support was evident with issues related to understaffing; difficulty gaining support at the administrative, institutional, or physician level; time constraints; and funding concerns. This study shows that GCs need education, tools, and resources to overcome barriers in implementing new or adapting current SDMs, and there is a need for policy change, including new billing and coverage models.
Molecular docking of metal ion immobilized ligands to proteins in affinity chromatography
Authors: Salha Dima , Andaç Müge , Denizli Adil
Published: September 2020

Immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography (IMAC) has become a widespread analytical and preparative separation method for therapeutic proteins, peptides nucleic acids, hormones, and enzymes. N‐Methacryloyl‐l‐histidine Methyl Ester (MAH) monomer is recently used as a synthesized affinity ligand in IMAC. It is capable of chelating with many transition metal ions such as Zn2+, Ni2+, and Cu2+ ions through its histidine residue. In this way, proteins can bind selectively to these immobilized metal ions through MAH as a ligand in affinity chromatography. In this study, we applied the computational docking method on the interactions that occur between the MAH monomer and its complexes with Zn2+ ions as ligands and protein molecules as targets. MAH monomer was drawn and created using the Avogadro software as an optimization tool. Human insulin (Ins) molecule and horse heart cytochrome C (Cyt C) were selected as target proteins to interact with MAH monomer as affinity ligand. Automated docking software AutoDock v4.2 was used for docking of MAH monomer to Ins and Cyt C, respectively. The affinity ligand complexes with Zn2+ ions bound to one, two, and three moles of MAH were studied and compared separately. The lowest binding energies of Ins and Cyt C proteins in 1:1 mol ratio of MAH‐Zn2+ were found as (−4.14) and (−4.92) kcal/mol, respectively.
Presenting the characteristics, smoking versus diabetes, and outcome among patients hospitalized with COVID‐19
Authors: Abbas Hassan M. , Nassir Kawthar F. , Al Khames Aga Qutaiba A. , Al‐Gharawi Ali A. , Rasheed Jawad I. , AL‐Obaidy Muhammed W. , Al Jubouri Adnan M. , Jaber Ali S. , Al Khames Aga Luma A.
Published: September 2020

Methods

We designed a cross‐sectional, observational follow‐up for 284 COVID‐19 patients involving healthy patients, smokers, diabetics, and diabetic plus smokers recruited from May 1, 2020 to June 25, 2020. The clinical features, severity, duration, and outcome of the disease were analyzed.

Results

Of 284 COVID‐19 patients, the median age was 48 years (range, 18–80), and 33.80% were female. Common symptoms included fever (85.56%), shortness of breath (49.65%), cough (45.42%), and headache (40.86%). Patients with more than one comorbidity (diabetes and smoking) presented as severe‐critical cases compared to healthy patients, diabetics, and smokers. Smokers presented with a lower rate of death in comparison to diabetic patients and diabetic + smoking, furthermore, smoking was less risky than diabetes. Although the mortality rate was high in patients with smokers compared to healthy patients (4.22%, the hazard ratio [HR], 1.358; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.542–1.100; p = .014), it was less than in diabetics (7.04%, HR 1.531, 95% CI: 1.668–1.337, p = .000), and diabetic plus smoker (10.00%, HR, 1.659; 95% CI, 1.763–1.510; p = .000).

Conclusion

Multiple comorbidities are closely related to the severity of COVID‐19 disease progression and the higher mortality rate. Smokers presented as mild cases compared to diabetic and diabetic + smoking patients, who presented as severe to critical cases. Although a higher death rate in smokers was seen compared with healthy patients, this was smaller when compared to diabetic and diabetic + smoking patients.
Targeted muscle reinnervation following external hemipelvectomy or hip disarticulation: An anatomic description of technique and clinical case correlates
Authors: Anderson Spencer R. , Wimalawansa Sunishka M. , Roubaud Margaret S. , Mericli Alexander F. , Horne Brandon R. , Valerio Ian L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) has been shown to decrease or prevent neuropathic pain, including phantom and residual limb pain, after extremity amputation. Currently, a paucity of data and lack of anatomical description exists regarding TMR in the setting of hemipelvectomy and/or hip disarticulations. We elaborate on the technique of TMR, illustrated through cadaveric and clinical correlates.

Methods

Cadaveric dissections of multiple transpelvic exposures were performed. The major mixed motor and sensory nerve branches were identified, dissected, and tagged. Amputated peripheral nerves were transferred to identified, labeled target motor nerves via direct end‐to‐end nerve coaptations per traditional TMR technique. A retrospective review was completed by our multi‐institutional teams to include examples of clinical correlates for TMR performed in the setting of hemipelvectomies and hip disarticulations.

Results

A total of 12 TMR hemipelvectomy/hip disarticulation cases were performed over a 2 to 3‐year period (2018‐2020). Of these 12 cases, 9 were oncologic in nature, 2 were secondary to traumatic injury, and 1 was a failed limb salvage in the setting of chronic refractory osteomyelitis of the femoral shaft.

Conclusions

This manuscript outlines the technical considerations for TMR in the setting of hemipelvectomy and hip disarticulation with supporting clinical case correlates.
Soil bacterial and fungal communities and associated nutrient cycling in relation to rice cultivation history after reclamation of natural wetland
Authors: Hu Wanjin , Huang Lingling , He Yong , Liu Yajun , Liu Yizhen , Kong Zhaoyu , Wu Lan , Ge Gang
Published: September 2020

The reclamation and utilization of natural wetlands can affect the community structure of soil microorganisms. However, knowledge regarding succession of microbial communities during long‐term reclamation and the links with related nutrient cycles is still limited. Using Illumina sequencing, we identified the patterns and environmental drivers of soil bacterial and fungal succession along a 150‐year chronosequence of paddy fields. Soil enzyme activities were determined to characterize functions related to C, N, and P cycles. The results showed that reclamation activity and its history have greatly altered the bacterial community structure and the bacterial groups. This change being mainly reflected in the bacterial genera Halomonas, genera Isosphaera, and family Planctomycetaceae. The change of fungal community was mainly apparent between natural wetlands and paddy fields, manifested as an increase in the classes Sordariomycetes and Dothideomycetes and a significant decrease inthe class Agaricomycetes in paddy fields compared with natural wetland. Compared with fungi, bacteria were more strongly affected by soil chemical nutrient properties and physical properties. Furthermore, the structural equation model indicated that both bacterial and fungal community structure and diversity had a great influence on the C, N, and P cycles. In summary, the bacterial community was more sensitive throughout the history of rice cultivation after reclamation than the fungal community, but both bacteria and fungi may play major roles in soil ecological functions. These findings contribute to the understanding of ecosystem functional mechanisms, which provides a new perspective for the management of natural wetlands.
Carbon contents and fine root production in tropical silvopastoral systems
Authors: Morales Ruiz Danilo E. , Aryal Deb R. , Pinto Ruiz René , Guevara Hernández Francisco , Casanova Lugo Fernando , Villanueva López Gilberto
Published: September 2020

Owing to the increasing extension of land for livestock production, silvopastoral practices have been among the promising approaches to enhance carbon (C) sequestration. However, the extent of C sequestration in different silvopastoral systems (SPS) and their relationship with fine root production (FRP) is not well understood. The objective of this research was to evaluate the changes in C storage, FRP, and turnover in a part of tropical SPS. We evaluated above‐ and belowground C storage, FRP and turnover in live fences (LF), dispersed tree (DT) silvopasture, and compared these with open pasturelands (OP) in Southeastern Mexico. We applied the stock change approach to calculate biomass growth rates and the ingrowth monolith method for FRP. Biomass stocks in the same plots are re‐measured over time in the stock change approach. Woody biomass stocks differed significantly between SPS (DT: 37.2, LF: 9.8 Mg ha−1) and the accumulation rates in both SPS were significantly higher than zero (0.2–2.2 Mg ha−1 yr−1). Soil organic carbon (SOC) contents were significantly higher in SPS (LF: 2.4%, DT: 3.1%) compared to OP (1.6%). FRP significantly differed between SPS (LF: 27.8, DT: 45.4, and OP: 9.4 g m−2 yr−1) and correlated positively with SOC content. Higher SOC reduced soil compaction in silvopastoral lands as indicated by lower soil bulk density. The results on C stocks change and fine root dynamics contribute to understanding C sequestration potential of tropical SPS, identifying ecologically sound strategies to mitigate greenhouse gases from the livestock sector, and aid restoration of ecosystem services for degraded pasturelands.
Lipid Composition and Utilization in Early Stage Leptocephalus Larvae of Bonefish (Albula vulpes)
Authors: Mejri Sahar , Adams Aaron J. , Shenker Jonathan M. , Cianciotto Anthony C. , Robinson Christopher , Uribe Victoria , Wills Paul S.
Published: September 2020

In order to encourage the survival of both captive and wild populations of bonefish (Albula vulpes), a deeper understanding of the species' early developmental characteristics is necessary. During ontogenesis, bonefish utilize lipids as a source of energy before the start of exogenous feeding. The goal of this study is to gain insight into the energetic needs of bonefish leptocephalus larvae in the post‐hatch larval stage. Broodstock were collected in the wild and hormone induced. Spawning yielded eggs that were fertilized and were then incubated until hatching. Larval development was monitored throughout the duration of the trial until all larvae perished. Samples of larval tissue were taken to the lab for lipid analysis and composition was compared at different developmental stages. Larval lipid composition was significantly different across sample groups showing a change in lipid content related to development. After hatching, larvae gradually depleted wax esters‐sterol ester (WE‐SE) reserves over a period of 4 days, while simultaneously increasing hydrocarbon (HC). The role of WE‐SE is seemingly tied to both buoyancy and energy reserves due to its high abundance immediately post‐hatch and selective catabolism. As larvae weaned off of the nutrition provided by the yolk, exogenous feeding began to diversify lipid composition and overall lipid reserves were depleted. Future directions included the development of optimal larval feeds based on this analysis in order to gain more insight into the nutritional needs and requirements during the critical leptocephalus stages.
How does face influence the purchase of imitative new products? Moderating roles of product design characteristics
Authors: Shu Chengli , Liu Aiqing , Nakata Cheryl
Published: September 2020

Face plays a profound role in consumption, but the question of how it impacts the purchase of imitative new products remains unanswered in the current literature. Imitative new products, which are legitimate innovations bearing similarities to existing products, are prevalent in many markets. This study investigates how two dimensions of face consciousness—the desire to gain face and the fear of losing face—influence consumers' purchase intentions regarding imitative new products by considering three product design characteristics (new product imitation locus, new product imitation scope, and product hedonism) as boundary conditions. We find through experiments carried out with adult Chinese consumers that the desire to gain face strengthens, but the fear of losing face weakens purchase intention. Moreover, the positive effects of the desire to gain face are weakened by imitation locus (form vs. function imitation) but enhanced by imitation scope (either form or function imitation vs. both form and function imitation); whereas the negative effects of the fear of losing face are strengthened by imitation locus but weakened by imitation scope. Product hedonism enhances the positive effects of the desire to gain face and augments the negative effects of the fear of losing face. This study thus contributes to the face literature by differentiating the roles of two dimensions of face consciousness in affecting consumption of imitative new products. In addition, this study contributes two important constructs—new product imitation locus and new product imitation scope—to the literature on imitative new products.
The Line Between Protected Speech and Lawful Employee Discipline
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: September 2020

Work rules on allowable types of employee speech are often intended to help employee morale and company reputation. Further, the employer's intention to comply with equal employment opportunity laws by discouraging harassment can lead to rules that require employees to refrain from certain types of outbursts or conduct. Few could argue that such rules serve a valuable purpose in the workplace.
Reimbursement as a tool to reduce sabotaging in rent‐seeking contests
Authors: Minchuk Yizhaq
Published: September 2020

We study standard rent‐seeking contests with reimbursement and sabotaging. This study is conducted for a symmetric model with complete information. We show that changing the contest mechanism by applying a form of reimbursement could be an effective tool against sabotaging, in addition to the fact that it increases contest designer revenue. Simple changes such as sufficient reimbursement to winners/losers might completely stop sabotaging efforts in the contest.
Ultrawideband TEM horn with inhomogeneous dielectric medium
Authors: Bobreshov Anatoly M. , Uskov Grigory K. , Kretov Pavel A. , Sbitnev Nikita S.
Published: September 2020

This article presents a novel design of ultrawideband TEM horn with dielectric filling of the space between its leaves. The distribution of dielectric permittivity in the medium is obtained according to the laws of geometric optics. The electromagnetic simulation and experimental measurements are performed; voltage standing wave ratio and radiation patterns at a set of frequencies up to 20 GHz are obtained. The described method allowed to prevent antenna pattern distortion at frequencies from 7.5 to 20 GHz.
Dithienopyrrolobenzothiadiazole‐carbazole based D‐π‐A‐π‐D p‐type conjugated material
Authors: Kadam Vinay S. , Bhatt Prachi A. , Machhi Hiren K. , Soni Saurabh S. , Zade Sanjio S. , Patel Arun L.
Published: September 2020

A new π‐conjugated macromolecule (M1) having fused pentacyclic N‐bridged dithienopyrrolobenzothiadiazole core unit with carbazole capping linked by vinyl spacers at both ends was synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H and 13C) and high resolution mass‐spectrometry techniques. Photophysical properties of compound M1 was studied by absorption and emission spectroscopy. Compound M1 showed optical HOMO‐LUMO gap of 2.2 eV. Compound M1 showed a solvatochromic effect in fluorescence spectroscopy. DFT calculation showed that M1 possesses nearly planar geometry. The space charge limited current hole mobility of M1 was found to be 3.85 × 10−4 cm2V−1S−1.
Multiple magnetic resonance imaging in patients with implanted sacral nerve stimulator
Authors: Heidler Stefan , Ostermann Stefan , Kuglitsch Miriam , Sekic Fahrudin , Wimpissinger Florian , Lusuardi Lukas , Dietersdorfer Franz
Published: September 2020

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess possible impacts of multiple magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans on the function of InterStim™ sacral neurostimulator systems (SNS; Medtronic Inc.) devices and on patient's safety.

Methods

Over the course of 17 years, a total of 16 patients required 72 MRI examinations in various parts of the body. Each time an MRI was performed, the implanting urologist evaluated the SNS device function and deactivated the implant before the scan. Patients were monitored continuously during and after the procedure. After the MRI session, the site of the implanted device was examined, and the SNS device was reactivated.

Results

None of the patients experienced pain or discomfort during or after the MRI scan. Impedances and stimulation amplitudes were recorded before and after MRI and showed no statistically significant changes regarding implant function. Micturition‐time charts after MRI procedures were compared with previous records and showed no deviations either. No negative consequences of multiple MRIs have been observed.

Conclusion

This is the first report of patients successfully undergoing multiple MRI scans despite a previously implanted SNS. Sixteen patients underwent more than one MRI scan, with no negative effect on the functional outcome of SNS or negative side effects for the patients.
A novel accurate and computationally efficient integration approach to viscoplastic constitutive model
Authors: Kumar Sumit , Patel Badri Prasad
Published: September 2020

A novel, accurate, and computationally efficient integration approach is developed to integrate small strain viscoplastic constitutive equations involving nonlinear coupled first‐order ordinary differential equations. The developed integration scheme is achieved by a combination of the implicit backward Euler difference approximation and the implicit asymptotic integration. For the uniaxial loading case, the developed integration scheme produces accurate results irrespective of time steps. For the multiaxial loading case, the accuracy and computational efficiency of the developed integration scheme are better than those of either the implicit backward Euler difference approximation or the implicit asymptotic integration. The simplicity of the developed integration scheme is equivalent to that of the implicit backward Euler difference approximation since it also reduces the solution of integrated constitutive equations to the solution of a single nonlinear equation. The algorithm tangent constitutive matrix derived for the developed integration scheme is consistent with the integration algorithm and preserves the quadratic convergence of the Newton–Raphson method for global iterations.
Variation in the Socioeconomic Gradient of Obesity by Ethnicity – England’s National Child Measurement Programme
Authors: Strugnell Claudia , Mathrani Shireen , Sollars Loretta , Swinburn Boyd , Copley Vicky
Published: September 2020

Objective

This study examined the prevalence and risk of overweight/obesity among expanded ethnicity categories within boys and girls in England and the differential influence of socioeconomic position using the 2015/2016 and the 2016/2017 cycles of the National Child Measurement Programme.

Methods

This cross‐sectional and descriptive study examined surveillance data of weight status among primary school children in England. Data were pooled across data collection years, representing 1.25 million children in Reception (aged 4‐5 years) and 1.1 million children in Year 6 (aged 10‐11 years). Ethnicity was classified according to National Health Service definitions, and child residence was used to calculate quintiles of Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index. Measured weight status was classified using the International Obesity Task Force’s definition. Logistic regression models were run for each sex and year group.

Results

Within each sex, ethnicity‐ and socioeconomic‐specific differentials in overweight/obesity prevalence were evident. For example, among the five most populous ethnic groups in the most deprived quintile, 26.8% of White British girls in Reception had overweight/obesity compared with 20.7% of girls with Pakistani, 31.2% with Black African, 17.1% with Indian, and 22.2% with any Any Other White (e.g., White European) background.

Conclusions

Ethnicity had an independent influence on overweight/obesity risk after adjustment for socioeconomic position.
Productivity growth of Indian banking sector: A comparative analysis of pre‐ and post‐global financial crisis
Authors: Kale Seenaiah
Published: September 2020

This article evaluates the productivity growth of Indian banks during the pre‐ and post‐global financial crisis of 2008. Productivity is calculated across banking groups, such as public, private, and foreign peers, using Malmquist Productivity Index through data envelopment analysis. Empirical findings indicate that the efficiency and productivity growth of Indian banks have declined in the post‐global financial crisis as compared with the pre‐financial crisis. We observe efficiency differences across ownership groups; further results clarify that the total factor productivity growth of public banks is lower than that of private and foreign players, mostly due to the change in technical progress though not driven by technical efficiency. The study suggests that having a base in technological advances might help perform better when encountering a crisis.
Unemployment and monetary policy: Evidence from Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Onanuga Abayomi T. , Omitogun Olawunmi
Published: September 2020

In Sub‐Sahara Africa, few studies have been conducted on how unemployment affects monetary policy in each country. Even an aggregate study of the phenomenon in Sub‐Sahara Africa is near absent despite a high level of unemployment in the region. To investigate the empirical link between unemployment and monetary policy, the study employs a sample of 37 countries in Sub‐Sahara Africa for the period 2011–2017. Data were obtained from the World Bank and International Monetary Fund database. Using the difference Generalized Method of Moments model, the study determines how monetary policy (using the lending rate as proxy) responds to unemployment, employer's condition and total labour force in Sub‐Sahara Africa. We found that monetary policy indirectly responds to employer's condition, but the positive effect of the total labour force on monetary policy is relatively higher than total unemployment as a percentage of the labour force in the region. The study concludes that a linkage exists between monetary policy and employment indicators in Sub‐Sahara Africa and therefore, made some policy recommendations.
Novel hybrid approaches to measure smartphone addiction—Application of statistical and triangular fuzzy techniques
Authors: Sama Hanumantha Rao , Kalvakolanu Sripathi
Published: September 2020

The paper evaluates the levels of smartphone addiction among students using statistical and fuzzy analysis approaches. By using Smartphone Addiction Test (SAT) scores, the data were treated using fuzzy operators, and the relationships were analyzed by applying the statistical techniques. The respondent's addiction level scores were converted into a fuzzy environment through the triangular approach, and demographic characteristics of the respondents were compared to levels of smartphone addiction. The percentage of respondents with mild and moderate levels of addiction to smartphones was found to be high in the study. Gender, age groups, and years of usage were also associated with addiction to smartphones. However, the level of smartphone addiction was not much different based on whether the students are staying with parents or away from their parents. Among the dimensions measuring smartphone addiction, “lack of control” was ranked first. The dimension, “excessive use,” was found to be the second‐highest influencer of smartphone addiction level. Respondents, to no small extent, were students pursuing undergraduate and graduate programs. Adolescents and other demographic groups can be considered for future studies. Future studies can also focus on using other fuzzy approaches to evaluate the data on smartphone addiction. The study offers prioritized dimensions to be focused on containing the levels of addiction among individuals. Moreover, the ranking of items helps in guiding individuals to look into the problem areas and take the appropriate actions. Measurement of levels of smartphone addiction using a novel hybrid combination of statistical approach and triangular fuzzy approach was carried out in the study. The critical dimensions and items showing the influence on smartphone addiction were ranked.
Dynamic mechanical properties of architectural coated fabrics under different temperature and excitation frequency
Authors: Yingying Zhang , Meng Wu , Junhao Xu , Lanlan Zhang , Yi Zhou , Wei Ding
Published: September 2020

The dynamic thermo‐mechanical analysis test is performed on the architectural coating fabric based on the dynamic thermo‐mechanical analyzer (DMA). The effects of excitation frequency, constant temperature, and dynamic temperature on the dynamic mechanical properties of architectural membrane materials are discussed. Through analysis and discussion, the various rules of damping loss factor, loss modulus, and storage modulus of architectural membrane materials in the application temperature and frequency range are obtained. As the frequency of the external excitation force increases, the storage modulus, loss modulus, and loss factor all increase, while the influence of temperature is non‐linear. Under the action of dynamic temperature and constant temperature, the difference between storage modulus and loss modulus is obvious, but the difference of loss factor is small. Due to the anisotropy of the polyester fiber substrate, the damping characteristics of the membrane material in the warp and weft yarns are different regardless of the effect of external excitation frequency or temperature. The discussion in this article provides a theoretical basis for further research on the damping characteristics of membrane materials and the vibration response of membrane structures.
A survey on criteria for intubation in moderate to late preterm infants with respiratory distress
Authors: Feng Susan Y. S. , Rao Shripada , Patole Sanjay
Published: September 2020

Background

Majority of preterm infants do well with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) as the sole respiratory management; but some require endotracheal intubation and surfactant administration. While intubation is needed predominantly in extremely preterm infants (<28 weeks); some of the more mature preterm infants also require it. Currently, there are no clear guidelines regarding indications for endotracheal intubation in such infants.

Aims

To understand the current practice regarding “criteria for intubation” in moderate to late preterm infants with respiratory distress.

Methods

A survey of neonatologists in Australia New Zealand Neonatal Network (ANZNN) was conducted between April and June 2019.

Results

At least one neonatologist each from 29 of the 30 tertiary ANZNN Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) responded to the survey. In total, 118/200 (59%) neonatologists responded. The most common criteria for intubation were CPAP = 8 cmH2O (61%), pH < 7.2 (55%), pCO2 > 70 mmHg (48%), FiO2 > 40% (40%), chest retractions (48%), more than two episodes of apnea requiring intervention (54%), and chest X‐ray (CXR) showing moderate–severe hyaline membrane disease (HMD, 49%).

Conclusion

While there were variations in practice, nearly 50% of the neonatologists shared a common threshold with regards to the CPAP level, FiO2, blood gas parameters, and clinical and radiological findings. The results of this survey will help in designing future randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on this subject.
Holding all the ACEs
Authors: Thompson Angus
Published: September 2020

A lot has happened since captopril, the first ACE inhibitor, was launched in the early eighties. Here, Angus Thompson reflects on the wide range of renin‐angiotensin system (RAS)‐blocking drugs that have come to the market since, and how their use has evolved.
Conformational dependence of integrin‐binding peptides derived from homologous loop regions in the laminin α chains
Authors: Ishikawa Masaya , Hamada Keisuke , Yamada Yuji , Kumai Jun , Katagiri Fumihiko , Kikkawa Yamato , Nomizu Motoyoshi
Published: September 2020

Laminin α chains (α1–α5 chains) are expressed in a tissue‐ and developmental stage‐specific manner and have diverse chain‐specific biological functions. Especially, laminin globular (LG) modules (LG1–LG5) located at the C‐terminus of the α chains play a critical role in the biological activities of laminins. Each LG module is composed of a 14‐stranded β‐sheet (A‐N) sandwich structure. We previously screened cell attachment activity of the loop regions between the E and F strands in the LG modules using 17 homologous peptides (EF peptides) and found that four active EF peptides bind to integrin α2β1. One of the four peptides, G4EF1 demonstrated improved cell attachment activity when cyclized. Here, we focused on the remaining three integrin α2β1‐binding EF peptides (G5EF1, G3EF3, and G5EF5) and analyzed the relationship between their peptide conformation and cell attachment activity. First, we determined their active core sequences and found that G5EF1z (IGLEIVDGKVLFHVNN), G3EF3z (LLVTLEDGHIALST), and G5EF5z (KVLTEQVL) are the core sequences. Cyclic peptides of the core sequences (cycloG5EF1z, cycloG3EF3z, and cycloG5EF5z) enhanced integrin‐mediated cell adhesion activity compared with their linear peptides. The results indicated that cell adhesion activity of the integrin α2β1‐binding EF peptides is conformation dependent and that the loop structure is critical for their activity. This suggests that conformation of the loop regions plays an important role for the activities of the LG modules.
Reliable and generic liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry quantification of short peptides using a stable‐isotope‐labeled labeling agent
Authors: Kleinnijenhuis Anne J. , Vergauwen Bjorn , van Holthoon Frédérique L. , Hekman Maarten
Published: September 2020

Rationale

It is important to investigate the behavior of protein hydrolysate components in both in vitro and in vivo studies, to support the elucidation of their biological functions. As protein hydrolysates and biological matrices are highly complex mixtures, it is essential to apply fully reliable and flexible analytical approaches.

Methods

A novel and generic Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry methodology was developed to analyze short peptides. A stable‐isotope‐labeled labeling agent 6‐aminoquinolyl‐N‐hydroxysuccinimidyl carbamate (13C3) was synthesized and used to prepare internal standards from non‐labeled analyte peptides. The amino acid and peptides p, pG, Pp, GPp and PpG (where p stands for hydroxyproline) were used for proof of principle.

Results

The method showed acceptable performance in solvent, in simulated gastrointestinal fluid and in serum. The (linear) dynamic range expanded to over four orders of magnitude, which is very useful when multiple analytes are analyzed in a biological matrix, due to the large differences in concentrations observed for endogenous and protein hydrolysate components. The method provides absolute‐quantitative results and is fully accountable on the single‐sample and single‐component level.

Conclusions

The methodology can be applied to reliably quantify protein hydrolysate nutraceutical components at various stages during their in vivo processing. Internal standards can also be synthesized for other short peptides whenever they are expected to have biological relevance and require quantification. Overall this provides an excellent analytical tool to support the elucidation of the biological functions of protein hydrolysate components.
Profiling fragments for carotenoid esters in Penaeus monodon by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole‐Orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Shuang , Fang Keyi , Chen Shubing , Xu Jilin , Chen Juanjuan , Chen Haimin
Published: September 2020

Rationale

The precise identification of carotenoid esters of Penaeus monodon, especially those in the carotenoid skeleton, needs to occur during mass spectrometry analysis. Detailed structural information about carotenoid esters is significant not only for the assessment of nutritional quality, but also for tracing biosynthetic precursors.

Methods

The profiling of carotenoid esters in P. monodon was elucidated using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐Orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC/Q‐Orbitrap‐HRMS). The raw LC/MS data were analyzed using Exact Finder™ software.

Results

The structurally relevant ions, *l and *m, were considered markers of the astaxanthin monoester. Moreover, the carotenoid skeleton was unequivocally identified using the diagnostic ions *i, *j/*j’ and *g/*g’ generated by the carbon–carbon bond cleavage between β‐ionone ketones and conjugated polyene moieties. In total, 24 carotenoid esters were identified in P. monodon based on the fragmentation patterns discussed above. The identified carotenoid skeleton includes astaxanthin, astacene, oxidized astaxanthin and adonixanthin, which have been described for the first time.

Conclusions

Characterization of the unknown carotenoid esters demonstrates the capabilities of this methodology, which is significant for enriching the carotenoid species in P. monodon.
HMM‐based H∞ filtering for Markov jump systems with partial information and sensor nonlinearities
Authors: Li Feng , Zheng Wei Xing , Xu Shengyuan
Published: September 2020

This work examines the H∞ filtering issue for Markov jump systems in the circumstances of partial information on Markov chain and randomly occurring sensor nonlinearities. The partial information considered in this work includes partial information on the Markov state, on transition probabilities and on detection probabilities. A hidden Markov model with partially known transition probabilities and detection probabilities is introduced to describe the above partial information phenomenon. The randomly occurring sensor nonlinearities considered in this work depend on the system operating mode. Based on the Lyapunov methodology and the introduced hidden Markov model, some effective H∞ performance analysis criteria are derived for the filtering error system under the circumstances of partial information and sensor nonlinearities. In addition, the design procedure of the desired hidden Markov model‐based filter is established, and finally two examples are used to verify the theoretical results.
The Cognitive Element Model of Reading Instruction
Authors: Peng Peng , Goodrich J. Marc
Published: September 2020

The science of reading emphasizes explicit skills‐based reading instruction to support students’ reading acquisition. Yet, despite ample evidence of support, some students do not respond to such instruction adequately. To characterize why some students are not responsive to evidence‐based reading instruction and to inform the development of novel instructional approaches for improving responsiveness, cross‐disciplinary perspectives on cognitive and academic development are important. Based on the cognitive–academic bidirectional theory, on cognitive training transfer theory, and on various working memory–reading models, the authors propose a cognitive element model of reading instruction that provides a novel framework for considering how to embed supports for cognitive processes within evidence‐based reading instruction. Specifically, the element model emphasizes building reading fluency and comprehension/knowledge with explicit instruction. Working memory should not be considered a domain‐general construct in working memory training that aims to produce far‐transfer effects on reading outcomes. Instead of looking for far‐transfer effects, we should make outcomes (i.e., reading) near‐transfer tasks such that working memory training should be domain (material) specific, task paradigm specific, and strategy specific and assimilated within existing skill‐based reading activities. The authors review intervention studies with rigorous methodology and show promising effects of this framework. With the element model, the authors provide a foundation for considering how one can use extant knowledge of evidence‐based reading instruction together with knowledge of related skills in other domains (e.g., cognitive psychology) to maximize the efficacy of reading instruction for all students.