bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magneto‐chemical signature of the Lower‐to‐Middle Siwaliks transition in the Karnali River section (Western Nepal): Implications for Himalayan tectonics and climate
Authors: Gautam Pitambar , Huyghe Pascale , Mugnier Jean‐Louis , Regmi Kamal R.
Published: December 2019

Fluviatile sediments comprising a 600‐m‐thick sequence of the Lower and Middle Siwaliks in the Karnali area in Nepal exhibit a distinct zonation revealed by magnetic and geochemical properties. Four magneto‐chemical zones (MCZ1–MCZ4), each about 150 m thick and 400 kyr in duration, provide new insights into Himalayan tectono‐climatic events during the Tortonian (Miocene) stage. They exhibit contrasting magnetic susceptibility and isothermal remanence due to differences in magnetic mineral types (magnetite, haematite, and goethite) and concentrations. Odd‐numbered zones with higher goethite/(goethite + haematite) ratio, a moisture proxy, indicate wetter conditions in the source area, while the even‐numbered zones, virtually without goethite, suggest drier conditions. Chemical indices of alteration/weathering and proxies for hydraulic sorting and mobility derived from the major element compositions also reveal contrasts among these zones. The middle of the MCZ2–MCZ3 zone, with a transitional magneto‐chemical signature, is the best candidate for the Lower‐to‐Middle Siwaliks contact, rather than the field‐based boundary placed 18 m up‐section at the base of the thick salt‐and‐pepper sandstone bed. The transition records an increase in river energy and associated accelerated erosion of the Himalayan gneiss zone as the source of coarse‐grained material. We suggest a scenario, whereby climate change from drier to wetter (with higher precipitation) conditions affects erosional processes (i.e., weathering, disaggregation and particle transport on the hillslope) prevailing in a large catchment and influencing the depositional modes.
Reference‐based multiple imputation for missing data sensitivity analyses in trial‐based cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Leurent Baptiste , Gomes Manuel , Cro Suzie , Wiles Nicola , Carpenter James R.
Published: December 2019

Missing data are a common issue in cost‐effectiveness analysis (CEA) alongside randomised trials and are often addressed assuming the data are ‘missing at random’. However, this assumption is often questionable, and sensitivity analyses are required to assess the implications of departures from missing at random. Reference‐based multiple imputation provides an attractive approach for conducting such sensitivity analyses, because missing data assumptions are framed in an intuitive way by making reference to other trial arms. For example, a plausible not at random mechanism in a placebo‐controlled trial would be to assume that participants in the experimental arm who dropped out stop taking their treatment and have similar outcomes to those in the placebo arm.

Drawing on the increasing use of this approach in other areas, this paper aims to extend and illustrate the reference‐based multiple imputation approach in CEA. It introduces the principles of reference‐based imputation and proposes an extension to the CEA context. The method is illustrated in the CEA of the CoBalT trial evaluating cognitive behavioural therapy for treatment‐resistant depression. Stata code is provided. We find that reference‐based multiple imputation provides a relevant and accessible framework for assessing the robustness of CEA conclusions to different missing data assumptions.
Better monitoring of abused children by designing a child abuse surveillance system: Determining national child abuse minimum data set
Authors: Karbasi Zahra , Kadivar Maliheh , Safdari Reza , Shahmoradi Leila , Zahmatkeshan Maryam , Zakerabasali Somayyeh , Abhari Shahabeddin , Sayarifard Azadeh
Published: December 2019

Background

Monitoring the trend of child abuse can significantly help in measuring the magnitude of the problem and understanding its recurrence. The minimum data set (MDS) is a set of elements of each domain that provides the basis for decision‐making. This study was conducted to determine the comprehensive national minimum data set for child abuse surveillance system (CASS) in Iran.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional descriptive study. Data were gathered from the selected countries and child abuse registry and surveillance systems. The MDS questionnaire was designed based on a review of the publications and experts' opinions. The final data elements of the CASS were determined using the Delphi technique by visiting pediatricians.

Results

In total, 147 data elements were included in the Delphi survey. The data elements of the CASS were classified into seven categories as follows: demographic data, incident related data, medical history, diagnostic tests, incident nature, therapeutic measures, and other required data.

Conclusion

The existence of national MDS as the core of the child abuse surveillance program is essential and leads to appropriate decisions in this regard. The MDS can meet the needs of professionals, decision makers, researchers, and policymakers who decide on reducing the incidence of child abuse.
The transcription factor FLI1 promotes cancer progression by affecting cell cycle regulation
Authors: Miao Beiping , Bauer Andrea S. , Hufnagel Katrin , Wu Yenan , Trajkovic‐Arsic Marija , Pirona Anna C. , Giese Nathalia , Taipale Jussi , Siveke Jens T. , Hoheisel Jörg D. , Lueong Smiths
Published: December 2019

Binding of transcription factors to mutated DNA sequences is a likely regulator of cancer progression. Noncoding regulatory mutations such as those on the core promoter of the gene encoding human telomerase reverse transcriptase have been shown to affect gene expression in cancer. Using a protein microarray of 667 transcription factor DNA‐binding domains and subsequent functional assays, we looked for transcription factors that preferentially bind the mutant hTERT promoter and characterized their downstream effects. One of them, friend leukemia integration 1 (FLI1), which belongs to the E26 transforming‐specific family of transcription factors, exhibited particularly strong effects with respect to regulating hTERT expression, while the even better binding ELK3 did not. Depletion of FLI1 decreased expression of the genes for cyclin D1 (CCND1) and E2F transcription factor 2 (E2F2) resulting in a G1/S cell cycle arrest and in consequence a reduction of cell proliferation. FLI1 also affected CMTM7, another gene involved in G1/S transition, although by another process that suggests a balanced regulation of the tumor suppressor gene's activity via opposing regulation processes. FLI1 expression was found upregulated and correlated with an increase in CCND1 expression in pancreatic cancer and brain tumors. In non‐neoplastic lung cells, however, FLI1 depletion led to rapid progression through the cell cycle. This coincides with the fact that FLI1 is downregulated in lung tumors. Taken together, our data indicate a cell cycle regulatory hub involving FLI1, hTERT, CCND1 and E2F2 in a tissue‐ and context‐dependent manner.
A new deep learning method for image deblurring in optical microscopic systems
Authors: Zhao Huangxuan , Ke Ziwen , Chen Ningbo , Wang Songjian , Li Ke , Wang Lidai , Gong Xiaojing , Zheng Wei , Song Liang , Liu Zhicheng , Liang Dong , Liu Chengbo
Published: December 2019

Deconvolution is the most commonly used image processing method in optical imaging systems to remove the blur caused by the point‐spread function (PSF). While this method has been successful in deblurring, it suffers from several disadvantages, such as slow processing time due to multiple iterations required to deblur and suboptimal in cases where the experimental operator chosen to represent PSF is not optimal. In this paper, we present a deep‐learning‐based deblurring method that is fast and applicable to optical microscopic imaging systems. We tested the robustness of proposed deblurring method on the publicly available data, simulated data and experimental data (including 2D optical microscopic data and 3D photoacoustic microscopic data), which all showed much improved deblurred results compared to deconvolution. We compared our results against several existing deconvolution methods. Our results are better than conventional techniques and do not require multiple iterations or pre‐determined experimental operator. Our method has several advantages including simple operation, short time to compute, good deblur results and wide application in all types of optical microscopic imaging systems. The deep learning approach opens up a new path for deblurring and can be applied in various biomedical imaging fields.
Interaction of MOPS buffer with glass–ceramic scaffold: Effect of (PO4)3− ions in SBF on kinetics and morphology of formatted hydroxyapatite
Authors: Horkavcová Diana , Rohanová Dana , Stříbny Adam , Schuhladen Katharina , Boccaccini Aldo Roberto , Bezdička Petr
Published: December 2019

The international standard ISO 23317:2014 for the in vitro testing of inorganic biomaterials in simulated body fluid (SBF) uses TRIS buffer to maintain neutral pH. In our previous papers, we investigated the interaction of a glass–ceramic scaffold with TRIS and HEPES buffers. Both of them speeded up glass–ceramic dissolution and hydroxyapatite (HAp) precipitation, thereby demonstrating their unsuitability for the in vitro testing of highly reactive biomaterials. In this article, we tested MOPS buffer (3‐[N‐morpholino] propanesulfonic acid), another amino acid from the group of “Goods buffers”. A highly reactive glass–ceramic scaffold (derived from Bioglass®) was exposed to SBF under static–dynamic conditions for 13/15 days. The kinetics and morphology of the newly precipitated HAp were studied using two different concentrations of (PO4)3− ions in SBF. The pH value and the SiIV, Ca2+, and (PO4)3− concentrations in the SBF leachate samples were measured every day (AAS, spectrophotometry). The glass–ceramic scaffold was monitored by SEM/EDS, XRD, WD‐XRF, and BET before and after 1, 3, 7, 11, and 13/15 days of exposure. As in the case of TRIS and HEPES, the preferential dissolution of the glass–ceramic crystalline phase (Combeite) was observed, but less intensively. The lower concentration of (PO4)3− ions slowed down the kinetics of HAp precipitation, thereby causing the disintegration of the scaffold structure. This phenomenon shows that the HAp phase was predominately generated by the presence of (PO4)3− ions in the SBF, not in the glass–ceramic material. Irrespective of this, MOPS buffer is not suitable for the maintenance of pH in SBF.
Some results on the Ryser design conjecture
Authors: Parulekar Tushar D. , Sane Sharad S.
Published: December 2019

A Ryser design has equally many points as blocks with the provision that every two blocks intersect in a fixed number of points . An improper Ryser design has only one replication number and is thus symmetric design. A proper Ryser design has two replication numbers. The only known construction of a Ryser design is the complementation of a symmetric design. Such a Ryser design is called a Ryser design of type 1. Let denote a Ryser design of order , index and replication numbers . Let denote the number of points of with replication number (with ). Call a block small (respectively large) if (respectively ) and average if . Let denote the integer and let denote the rational number . Main results of the present article are the following. For every block , (this improves an earlier known inequality ). If there is no small block (respectively no large block) in , then (respectively ). With an extra assumption an earlier known upper bound on is improved from a cubic to a quadratic in . It is also proved that if and if equals or , then is of type 1. Finally, a Ryser design with points is shown to be of type 1.
Evaluating hypercoagulability in new‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients using thromboelastography
Authors: Gong Huiyun , Shi Ce , Zhou Zhuochao , Teng Jialin , Sun Yue , Yang Chengde , Wang Xuefeng , Ye Junna
Published: December 2019

Background

Thromboelastography (TEG) can reflect the coagulation status in vivo, from clot formation to clot lysis. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the function of TEG in detecting coagulation in patients with SLE and sought to explore the correlation between clinical and laboratory data.

Methods

A total of 41 patients with new‐onset SLE who had not undergone treatment and 56 healthy controls were included. TEG and other laboratory tests were performed, and clinical data were collected.

Results

A significant difference in the TEG reaction time and TEG achievement of clot firmness was observed between the groups. Moreover, these parameters were correlated with the lupus anticoagulant levels, platelet count, 24‐hour urinary total protein quantity, and systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated the prospective value of TEG in evaluating hypercoagulability in patients with SLE.
Derivation of notochordal cells from human embryonic stem cells reveals unique regulatory networks by single cell‐transcriptomics
Authors: Diaz‐Hernandez Martha E. , Khan Nazir M. , Trochez Camila M. , Yoon Tim , Maye Peter , Presciutti Steven M. , Gibson Greg , Drissi Hicham
Published: December 2019

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a public health dilemma as it is associated with low back and neck pain, a frequent reason for patients to visit the physician. During IDD, nucleus pulposus (NP), the central compartment of intervertebral disc (IVD) undergo degeneration. Stem cells have been adopted as a promising biological source to regenerate the IVD and restore its function. Here, we describe a simple, two‐step differentiation strategy using a cocktail of four factors (LDN, AGN, FGF, and CHIR) for efficient derivation of notochordal cells from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). We employed a CRISPR/Cas9 based genome‐editing approach to knock‐in the mCherry reporter vector upstream of the 3′ untranslated region of the Noto gene in H9‐hESCs and monitored notochordal cell differentiation. Our data show that treatment of H9‐hESCs with the above‐mentioned four factors for 6 days successfully resulted in notochordal cells. These cells were characterized by morphology, immunostaining, and gene and protein expression analyses for established notochordal cell markers including FoxA2, SHH, and Brachyury. Additionally, pan‐genomic high‐throughput single cell RNA‐sequencing revealed an efficient and robust notochordal differentiation. We further identified a key regulatory network consisting of eight candidate genes encoding transcription factors including PAX6, GDF3, FOXD3, TDGF1, and SOX5, which are considered as potential drivers of notochordal differentiation. This is the first single cell transcriptomic analysis of notochordal cells derived from hESCs. The ability to efficiently obtain notochordal cells from pluripotent stem cells provides an additional tool to develop new cell‐based therapies for the treatment of IDD.
Calcium signaling and regulation of neutrophil functions: Still a long way to go
Authors: Hann J. , Bueb J.-L. , Tolle F. , Bréchard S.
Published: December 2019

Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocytes in blood and disruption in their functions often results in an increased risk of serious infections and inflammatory autoimmune diseases. Following recent discoveries in their influence over disease progression, a resurgence of interest for neutrophil biology has taken place. The multitude of signaling pathways activated by the engagement of numerous types of receptors, with which neutrophils are endowed, reflects the functional complexity of these cells. It is therefore not surprising that there remains a huge lack in the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlining neutrophil functions. Moreover, studies on neutrophils are undoubtedly limited by the difficulty to efficiently edit the cell's genome. Over the past 30 years, compelling evidence has clearly highlighted that Ca2+-signaling is governing the key processes associated with neutrophil functions. The confirmation of the role of an elevation of intracellular Ca2+ concentration has come from studies on NADPH oxidase activation and phagocytosis. In this review, we give an overview and update of our current knowledge on the role of Ca2+ mobilization in the regulation of pro-inflammatory functions of neutrophils. In particular, we stress the importance of Ca2+ in the formation of NETs and cytokine secretion in the light of newest findings. This will allow us to embrace how much further we have to go to understand the complex dynamics of Ca2+-dependent mechanisms in order to gain more insights into the role of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. The potential for therapeutics to regulate the neutrophil functions, such as Ca2+ influx inhibitors to prevent autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases, has been discussed in the last part of the review.
Diversity of extracellular matrix morphology in vertebrate skeletal muscle
Authors: Sleboda David A. , Stover Kristin K. , Roberts Thomas J.
Published: December 2019

Existing data suggest the extracellular matrix (ECM) of vertebrate skeletal muscle consists of several morphologically distinct layers: an endomysium, perimysium, and epimysium surrounding muscle fibers, fascicles, and whole muscles, respectively. These ECM layers are hypothesized to serve important functional roles within muscle, influencing passive mechanics, providing avenues for force transmission, and influencing dynamic shape changes during contraction. The morphology of the skeletal muscle ECM is well described in mammals and birds; however, ECM morphology in other vertebrate groups including amphibians, fish, and reptiles remains largely unexamined. It remains unclear whether a multilayered ECM is a common feature of vertebrate skeletal muscle, and whether functional roles attributed to the ECM should be considered in mechanical analyses of non‐mammalian and non‐avian muscle. To explore the prevalence of a multilayered ECM, we used a cell maceration and scanning electron microscopy technique to visualize the organization of ECM collagen in muscle from six vertebrates: bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus), turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo), alligators (Alligator mississippiensis), cane toads (Rhinella marina), laboratory mice (Mus musculus), and carp (Cyprinus carpio). All muscles studied contained a collagen‐reinforced ECM with multiple morphologically distinct layers. An endomysium surrounding muscle fibers was apparent in all samples. A perimysium surrounding groups of muscle fibers was apparent in all but carp epaxial muscle; a muscle anatomically, functionally, and phylogenetically distinct from the others studied. An epimysium was apparent in all samples taken at the muscle periphery. These findings show that a multilayered ECM is a common feature of vertebrate muscle and suggest that a functionally relevant ECM should be considered in mechanical models of vertebrate muscle generally. It remains unclear whether cross‐species variations in ECM architecture are the result of phylogenetic, anatomical, or functional differences, but understanding the influence of such variation on muscle mechanics may prove a fruitful area for future research.
Risk factors for development of ventricular tachycardia in patients with ventricular premature contraction with a structurally normal heart
Authors: Nomura Yuichi , Seki Syunji , Hazeki Daisuke , Ueno Kentaro , Tanaka Yuji , Masuda Kiminori , Nishibatake Makoto , Yoshinaga Masao
Published: December 2019

Background

We examined risk factors for development of ventricular tachycardia (VT) in pediatric patients with ventricular premature contractions (VPCs) and a structurally normal heart.

Methods

The subjects were 81 844 first graders and 88 244 seventh graders of Kagoshima City School‐based cardiovascular screening (SCV‐screening) between 2001 and 2015. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of students who were diagnosed as having VPC.

Results

Ventricular premature contractions were observed in 134 first graders (0.16%) and 270 seventh graders (0.31%). On the screening electrocardiograms (ECGs), 43 patients (11%) showed bi‐/trigemini, three patients (0.7%) showed a couplet, and one patient showed VT. We obtained 166 patients' follow‐up information and evaluated 59 patients (36%) as improved, 97 patients (58%) as no change, and 10 patients (6%) as worsened (couplets, five; triplets, two; VT, three). We assumed that these worsened patients have risk factors for development of VT. Comparing the findings of SCV‐screening ECGs of risk patients with the others, a significant difference was observed only in the number of VPCs (per 10 seconds) (mean ± SD; 4.3 ± 2.6 vs 1.8 ± 1.4, P < .0001). A logistic regression analysis revealed that the number of VPCs was significant (P < .001, odds ratio; 2.01, 95% confidence intervals; 1.46‐2.93). Receiver operating characteristics analysis showed an adequate cut‐off number of three VPCs for the risk, the sensitivity was 89% and the specificity was 77%.

Conclusions

Of the patients with VPC and a structurally normal heart, a few patients developed VT. Careful observation is important in patients who had three or more VPCs on SCV‐screening ECG.
Biocorrosion inhibition of Cu70:Ni30 by Bacillus subtilis strain S1X and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain ZK biofilms
Authors: Wadood Hafiz Zeshan , Rajasekar Aruliah , Farooq Ameeq , Ting Yen‐Peng , Sabri Anjum Nasim
Published: December 2019

Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) or biocrorrosion is a cause of huge economic set back for industries around the globe. The present work deals with the study of corrosion of copper alloy (Cu–Ni 70:30) in the presence of bacterial biofilms produced by Bacillus subtilis strain S1X and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain ZK. MIC was investigated using electrochemical techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and through analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The Cu–Ni coupons were exposed to bacteria in minimal salt medium supplemented with NaCl for a period of 15 days. AFM and FTIR analysis revealed formation of a thick biofilm on the surface of the Cu alloy in bacterial inoculated systems. The electrochemical results demonstrated a decreased current density and corrosion rate for the systems with bacterial biofilms. These findings were supported by the results of SEM and weight loss studies. The results showed the inhibition of corrosion for Cu–Ni in biotic conditions (with biofilms) as compared with abiotic conditions (without biofilms).
The role of ENSO flavours and TNA on recent droughts over Amazon forests and the Northeast Brazil region
Authors: Jimenez Juan C. , Marengo Jose A. , Alves Lincoln M. , Sulca Juan C. , Takahashi Ken , Ferrett Samantha , Collins Matthew
Published: December 2019

Amazon tropical forests and the semiarid Northeast Brazil (NEB) region have registered very severe droughts during the last two decades, with a frequency that may have exceeded natural climate variability. Severe droughts impact the physiological response of Amazon forests, decreasing the availability to absorb atmospheric CO2, as well as biodiversity and increasing risk of fires. Droughts on this region also affect population by isolating them due to anomalous low river levels. Impacts of droughts over NEB region are related to water and energy security and subsistence agriculture. Most drought episodes over Amazonia and NEB are associated with El Niño (EN) events, anomalous warming over the Tropical North Atlantic (TNA), and even an overlapping among them. However, not all the dry episodes showed a large‐scale pattern linked to a canonical EN event or warm TNA episodes. For instance, dry episodes linked to EN events present distinct spatial patterns of precipitation anomalies depending on EN type (Central‐Pacific vs. Eastern‐Pacific EN), and NEB region experienced a severe drought in 2012 that is not attributed to EN or warm TNA events. Even in the case of the strong EN in 2015/16, some regional impacts have not been explained by EN contribution. This paper discusses the effects of CP and EP EN events, and the role of warm TNA events on tropical Walker and Hadley circulation leading to drought over Amazonia and NEB regions.
The relationship of three‐dimensional joint space width on weight‐bearing CT with pain and physical function
Authors: Kothari Mayank D. , Rabe Kaitlin G. , Anderson Donald D. , Nevitt Michael C. , Lynch John A. , Franz Hayden , A. Segal Neil
Published: December 2019

Limitations of plain radiographs may contribute to poor sensitivity in the detection of knee osteoarthritis and poor correlation with pain and physical function. Three‐dimensional (3D) joint space width (JSW), measured from weight‐bearing computed tomography (CT) images, may yield a more accurate correlation with patients’ symptoms. We assessed the cross‐sectional association between 3D JSW and self‐reported pain and physical function. Five hundred twenty eight knees (57% women) were analyzed from Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study participants. An upright weight‐bearing CT scanner was used to acquire bilateral, weight‐bearing, fixed‐flexion images of the knees. A 3D dataset was reconstructed from cone beam projections and JSW was calculated across the joint surface. The percentages of the apposed medial tibiofemoral joint surface with JSW less than 2.0 and 2.5 mm, respectively, were calculated. Pain and physical function were measured using Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. Participants who reported greater pain severity tended to have a greater joint area with JSW less than 2.0 mm (P = .07 for the highest vs the lowest tertile). Participants who reported greater functional limitations had a greater joint area with JSW less than 2.0 mm (P = .02 for the highest vs the lowest tertile). There appears to be an association between the medial tibiofemoral area with JSW less than 2.0 mm and pain and physical function.
MicroCT vascular network analysis program: Development, validation, and comparison to manufacturer software
Authors: Peters John , Vest Luke , Schuelke Matthew , Zustiak Silviya P. , Hall Andrew F. , McBride‐Gagyi Sarah
Published: December 2019

The dependence on angiogenesis for bone repair makes accurate measuring of vascular networks of great importance to orthopedic researchers. A three‐dimensional imaging modality like microcomputed tomography (µCT) would better capture these networks than histology. There are commercially available programs to analyze vessel networks in three dimensions, but these may be too costly for laboratories. Alternatively, µCT trabecular software could be used but may not be appropriate. The goal of this project was to develop a vascular network analysis protocol based on freely or commonly available software and compare its performance to that of a µCT trabecular analysis software. The protocol developed, called vascular network analysis or VNA, relies on two modules in Fiji ImageJ and a custom MATLAB program. We validated the software and compared it to a µCT trabecular analysis program (MicroCT) using in silico models of increasing complexity and differing homogeneity. In general, VNA outcomes were significantly different from true values, but most were within an acceptable percent error (<10%). VNA and MicroCT performed almost identically for volume but significantly differently for average vessel diameter. For the homogenous models, the average diameters differed only slightly but were starkly different for the heterogeneous models. In the most heterogeneous system, the MicroCT software overestimated average diameter by about 650% from true. VNA was within 1% of true for the same model. In conclusion, we have developed a program to analyze vascular networks from MicroCT scans which is easily accessible, insensitive to network homogeneity, and of higher accuracy compared to a µCT trabecular analysis software.
Key Determinants for Achieving Enteral Autonomy and Reduced Parenteral Nutrition Exposure in Pediatric Intestinal Failure
Authors: Enman Macie A. , Wilkinson Linda T. , Meloni Katie B. , Shroyer Michelle C. , Jackson Tracy F. , Aban Inmaculada , Dimmitt Reed A. , Martin Colin A. , Galloway David P.
Published: December 2019

Background

We sought to evaluate the relationship between determinants of intestinal failure (IF) and achieving enteral autonomy from parenteral nutrition (PN) in a large single‐center cohort of children.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review of pediatric subjects enrolled in a database for the Center for Advanced Intestinal Rehabilitation at Children's of Alabama from 1989 to 2016. IF was defined as dependence on PN for >60 days. Subjects were included if they were followed since birth or infancy for a minimum of 3 months and sufficient documentation of study variables were available. Gestational age, race, diagnosis, anatomy (percent small and large bowel remaining, presence of ileocecal valve [ICV]), county of residence (rural/urban), and days of PN use were recorded. Kaplan‐Meier curves and parametric survival regression models were used to investigate the relationship between the demographic and clinical variables with the length of PN use.

Results

Initially, 290 subjects were available to review. After inclusion/exclusion were applied, 158 subjects remained. Gestational age, diagnosis (necrotizing enterocolitis), small‐bowel length (>50%), and presence of an ICV were all positive predictors for reaching enteral autonomy. Residual colon length was associated with shorter duration of PN in days.

Conclusion

Enteral autonomy is a key outcome among children with IF. In our cohort, we found that gestational age, diagnosis, remaining small bowel, and presence of ICV are positive predictors for reaching this important milestone. Colon length is also an important factor with respect to duration of PN in days.
Characterization of moisture migration of beef during refrigeration storage by low‐field NMR and its relationship to beef quality
Authors: Cheng Shasha , Wang Xiaohui , Yang Huimin , Lin Rong , Wang Haitao , Tan Mingqian
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

In this study, low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were used to investigated the moisture migration of beef during refrigeration storage, and its relationships to some physicochemical quality indicators were analyzed using partial least squares regression.

RESULTS

Three water components ascribed to bound water, immobilized water and free water in beef matrix were revealed by LF‐NMR relaxation results. The transverse relaxation time and peak area of immobilized water declined as storage proceeded, as a result of disruption to the microstructure revealed by scanning electron microscope images. MRI images found obvious water migration of beef during refrigeration storage, and scanning electron microscopy images revealed that the integrity of the muscle fiber bundle was destroyed. In addition, increased storage time also led to increases in pH, total volatile basic nitrogen, TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) value, weight loss, cooking loss and b* value, and to decreases in water holding capacity (WHC), L* and a* values, and textural properties.

CONCLUSION

The strong correlations between water migration and the physicochemical quality changes suggested the possibility of LF‐NMR as a rapid and non‐invasive method to evaluate beef quality. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Postharvest application of pectic‐oligosaccharides on quality attributes, activities of defense‐related enzymes, and anthocyanin accumulation in strawberry
Authors: Virgen‐Ortiz Jose J , Morales‐Ventura José M , Colín‐Chávez Citlali , Esquivel‐Chávez Fabiola , Vargas‐Arispuro Irasema , Aispuro‐Hernández Emmanuel , Martínez‐Téllez Miguel A
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

The postharvest application of pectic‐oligosaccharides (POS) as an elicitor to improve the postharvest shelf‐life and nutritional quality by stimulating natural defense mechanisms in strawberries was studied. Strawberries (cv. Festival) were treated with POS (at 0, 2, 5, and 9 g L−1) and evaluated for firmness, weight loss, color, soluble solids, titratable acidity (TA), total phenolic and anthocyanin content, antioxidant capacity, decay, and some defense‐related enzyme activity during storage at 2 ± 0.5 °C for 14 days.

RESULTS

Treatment with POS significantly delayed (P < 0.05) strawberry decay, and reduced the water loss and softening of fruit during storage. Strawberries treated with POS showed a significant increase in total phenolic and anthocyanin content, and antioxidant capacity when compared with controls. Interestingly, POS induced higher activity of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), chitinase, and β‐1,3‐glucanase in strawberries. Compared to the control, the activity of enzymes was markedly increased in fruit treated with all tested POS concentrations, particularly chitinase, and β‐1,3‐glucanase activities, but 5 and 9 g L−1 POS were the most effective treatments for maintaining the quality attributes and improving anthocyanin accumulation and antioxidant capacity of strawberries.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that POS treatment could potentially be applied to maintain quality attributes, reduce decay, and further enrich the anthocyanin content and antioxidant capacity of strawberries during postharvest storage. The results also suggest that the positive effects of POS on strawberries could be associated with the rapid accumulation of chitinase and β‐1,3‐glucanase activities, and the increase of PAL enzyme activity leading to the synthesis and accumulation of anthocyanins. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Electrospun terpolymeric nanofiber membrane for micro solid‐phase extraction of diazinon and chlorpyrifos from aqueous samples
Authors: Mohammadi Nilash Mohammadreza , Avar Sajad , Mirzaei Fahimeh , Fakhari Ali Reza , Rezaee Shirin‐abadi Abbas
Published: December 2019

The present study deals with the synthesis and electrospining of a new terpolymer nanofiber in order to determine the amount of diazinon and chlorpyrifos in water and fruit juice samples. The synthesized terpolymer and the prepared nanofiber were characterized using 1H NMR spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and gel permeation chromatography. The performance of terpolymer nanofiber, prepared as a sorbent for micro solid phase extraction was investigated for the extraction of diazinon and chlorpyrifos from aquaeous media. Then, the target analytes were desorbed from the coating with an organic solvent and analyzed by gas chromatography with flame ionization detector. Extraction efficiencies were significant (>90%) under the optimum condition. The proposed method also demonstrated good linear dynamic ranges for diazinon and chlorpyrifos (3–250 and 5–200 µg/L), and low limit of detections (0.5 and 0.7 µg/L) respectively. Moreover, under optimum condition for extraction of diazinon and chlorpyrifos, square of correlation coefficients (R2) of 0.9978 and 0.9953 and relative standard deviations of 4.6 and 5.1% were achieved, respectively. The recoveries for diazinon and chlorpyrifos were in the range of 85–97%.
Health utility of rhinectomy, surgical nasal reconstruction, and prosthetic rehabilitation
Authors: Faris Callum , Heiser Alyssa , Quatela Olivia , Jackson Matthew , Tessler Oren , Jowett Nate , Lee Linda N.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Advanced nasal malignancies may require rhinectomy, which can have profound psychosocial impacts. Rhinectomy defects can be rehabilitated through surgery or prosthetics. We seek to understand the health utility of the rhinectomy defect, surgical, and prosthetic reconstruction, which have not been previously studied.

Study Design

Prospective clinical study

Methods

Adult naïve observers (n = 273) ranked the utility of five randomized health states (monocular blindness, binocular blindness, post‐rhinectomy nasal defect, postsurgical reconstruction, and post‐prosthetic rehabilitation). Health utilities were measured using visual analogue scale (VAS), standard gamble (SG), and time trade‐off (TTO). One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post hoc Scheffe's test and the independent samples T‐test for a priori comparisons were performed. Multiple linear regression was performed using participant demographics as independent predictors of utility scores.

Results

Health utilities (VAS, SG, TTO) were reported as follows (mean ± SD): monocular blindness (0.71 ± 0.21, 0.84 ± 0.20, 0.85 ± 0.19), binocular blindness (0.48 ± 0.25, 0.68 ± 0.28, 0.63 ± 0.28), post‐rhinectomy nasal defect (0.59 ± 0.24, 0.74 ± 0.24, 0.74 ± 0.24), postsurgical reconstruction (0.88 ± 0.16, 0.90 ± 0.18, 0.89 ± 0.13), and post‐prosthetic rehabilitation (0.67 ± 0.22, 0.80 ± 0.23, 0.82 ± 0.20). Both surgical reconstruction (P < .001) and prosthetic rehabilitation (P < .001) significantly improved health utility. SG and TTO utility scores were inversely associated with observer age (P < .001) and participants who identified themselves as non‐Caucasians (P < .05) in post‐rhinectomy nasal defect, post‐nasal surgical reconstruction, and post‐nasal prosthetic rehabilitation health states, while higher levels of education were directly associated with SG scores (P < .05), respectively.

Conclusion

This is the first study to demonstrate the significant negative impact of the rhinectomy nasal defect on health utility. Rehabilitation by surgical or prosthetic techniques significantly increases health utility as rated by naïve observers. Laryngoscope, 130:1674–1679, 2020
Investigation of micro‐electrochemical activities of oxide inclusions and microphases in duplex stainless steel and the implication on pitting corrosion
Authors: Zhang Yaohua , Hu Qian , Dai Mingjie , Huang Feng , Cheng Frank Y. , Liu Jing
Published: December 2019

In this study, the oxide inclusions contained in the 2205 duplex stainless steel were characterized, and the pitting corrosion initiated at the inclusions was statistically analyzed. The micro‐electrochemical behavior was measured by a home‐designed capillary microelectrode technique. Results show that three types of oxide inclusions are contained in the steel, namely, Al–Mg–O (inclusion A), Al–Si–Ca–O (inclusion B), and Al–Mg–Si–Ca–O (inclusion C) inclusions. Inclusion A possesses higher electrochemical stability than the steel substrate, and there is no corrosion pit initiated on the inclusion. Inclusions B and C are more electrochemically active than the steel, and pitting corrosion occurs on both inclusions. The α phase has higher electrochemical activity and lower corrosion resistance than the γ phase. Pitting corrosion is more likely to occur at the inclusion/α phase interface, rather than the inclusion/γ phase interface. When the inclusion is located at the α/γ interface, the pit initiation is dominated by the α phase on the coexisting dual phases.
Fifty years of celebrity endorser research: Support for a comprehensive celebrity endorsement strategy framework
Authors: Schimmelpfennig Christian , Hunt James B.
Published: December 2019

Half a century of research on celebrity endorsement has led to the advancement of four grand celebrity endorsement theories. Most scholars have adopted the meaning transfer model, proposed 30 years ago by Grant McCracken, as the most appropriate theory to explain effective celebrity endorsements. In this conceptual study, we present a literature search and analysis that finds strong support for the validity of all four grand endorsement theories (source credibility, source attractiveness, match‐up hypothesis, and meaning transfer model) and thus show that each theory constitutes an effective construct for a particular set of endorsements. We argue that, contrary to the assertion in the literature, no single theory is able to holistically explain celebrity endorsements. Only a comprehensive framework comprising all theories can explain the great variety of different celebrity endorsements executed in advertising praxis. Moreover, we present a prescriptive framework that allows marketers to identify the most effective celebrity endorsement strategy based on a product's or brand's value proposition, as we believe traditional product categories are no longer an appropriate concept on which to base an effective advertising strategy.
Blow‐up of the maximal solution to 3D Boussinesq system in Lei‐Lin‐Gevrey spaces
Authors: Selmi Ridha , Chaabani Abdelkerim , Zaabi Mounia
Published: December 2019

For arbitrary initial data in Lei‐Lin‐Gevrey spaces, we investigate the blow‐up phenomena in finite time to the local unique solution of the three‐dimensional Boussinesq system. We determine the blow‐up profile explicitly as a function of time, and we identify the low frequencies part as a solely responsible of this phenomena. Frequencies decomposition, functional spaces interpolation, and Leray theory are used.
Study on autonomous and nonautonomous version of a food chain model with intraspecific competition in top predator
Authors: Roy Jyotirmoy , Alam Shariful
Published: December 2019

In this article, a three‐species food chain model with intraspecific competition in top predators has been considered. Ecological and mathematical well posedness of the model system has been established by showing that all the solutions of the model are positive and bounded. The extinction scenarios of intermediate and top predator species along with the existence and stability of all equilibrium points have been discussed. The effects of competition and conversion efficiency of top predators in the dynamics of the system have been discussed with great thrust, and it is observed that the conversion efficiency of top predators deteriorates the stability of the system, whereas intraspecific competition in top predators enhances the stable coexistence of all the populations of the system. Further, nonautonomous version of the model system has been taken into consideration to study the impact of seasonal variation in the dynamics of the model system. Sufficient conditions for the existence of a globally attractive positive periodic have been established in a periodic environment. Finally, numerical simulations have been carried out to validate our analytical findings.
Nonlinear effect measurement based on high‐speed optical transmission communication system
Authors: Zhao Zhonghua , Xin Haiyan , Liu Tao
Published: December 2019

The problem of nonlinear effect in high‐speed optical transmission communication systems limits the performance of systems; therefore, it needs to be measured and suppressed. In this article, the influence of nonlinear effect was illustrated taking signal phase as an example. Then an Xcross phase modulation (XPM) measurement model was established. It was found through simulation experiment that XPM effect tended to theoretical value with the increase of frequency of radio frequency signal and strengthened with the decrease of dispersion effect. The effectiveness of the measurement method is illustrated and relevant influence factors were verified, providing a reference for the study of nonlinear effect of communication technology.
Visual enhancement of Cone‐beam CT by use of CycleGAN
Authors: Kida Satoshi , Kaji Shizuo , Nawa Kanabu , Imae Toshikazu , Nakamoto Takahiro , Ozaki Sho , Ohta Takeshi , Nozawa Yuki , Nakagawa Keiichi
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers advantages over conventional fan‐beam CT in that it requires a shorter time and less exposure to obtain images. However, CBCT images suffer from low soft‐tissue contrast, noise, and artifacts compared to conventional fan‐beam CT images. Therefore, it is essential to improve the image quality of CBCT.

Methods

In this paper, we propose a synthetic approach to translate CBCT images with deep neural networks. Our method requires only unpaired and unaligned CBCT images and planning fan‐beam CT (PlanCT) images for training. The CBCT images and PlanCT images may be obtained from other patients as long as they are acquired with the same scanner settings. Once trained, three‐dimensionally reconstructed CBCT images can be directly translated into high‐quality PlanCT‐like images.

Results

We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method with images obtained from 20 prostate patients, and provide a statistical and visual comparison. The image quality of the translated images shows substantial improvement in voxel values, spatial uniformity, and artifact suppression compared to those of the original CBCT. The anatomical structures of the original CBCT images were also well preserved in the translated images.

Conclusions

Our method produces visually PlanCT‐like images from CBCT images while preserving anatomical structures.
Interleaved 31P MRS/1H ASL for analysis of metabolic and functional heterogeneity along human lower leg muscles at 7T
Authors: Niess Fabian , Schmid Albrecht Ingo , Bogner Wolfgang , Wolzt Michael , Carlier Pierre , Trattnig Siegfried , Moser Ewald , Meyerspeer Martin
Published: December 2019

Purpose

MR offers the unique possibility to noninvasively investigate cellular energy metabolism via 31P MRS, while blood perfusion, which provides oxygen and substrates to the tissue, is accessible by arterial spin labeling (ASL) 1H MRI. Because metabolic and hemodynamic parameters are linked, it would be desirable to study them simultaneously. A 3D‐resolved method is presented that allows such measurements with high spatiotemporal resolution and has the potential to discern differences along an exercising muscle.

Methods

Multi‐voxel localized 31P MRS was temporally interleaved with multi‐slice pASL 1H MRI. Phosphorus spectra were collected from two adjacent positions in gastrocnemius medialis (GM) during rest, submaximal plantar flexion exercise and recovery, while perfusion and ‐weighted axial images were acquired at the same time. Seventeen healthy volunteers (9 f / 8 m) were studied at 7 T.

Results

An increase of postexercise perfusion and ‐weighted signal in GM positively correlated with end‐exercise PCr depletion and pH drop. At proximal positions functional and metabolic activity was higher than distally, that is, perfusion increase and peak ‐weighted signal, end‐exercise PCr depletion, end‐exercise pH, and PCr recovery time constant were significantly different. An NOE‐induced SNR increase of approximately 20 % (P < .001), at rest, was found in interleaved 31P spectra, when comparing to 31P‐only acquisitions.

Conclusions

A technique for fast, simultaneous imaging of muscle functional heterogeneity in ASL, and acquisition of time‐resolved 31P  MRS data is presented. These single exercise recovery experiments can be used to investigate local variations during disease progression in patients suffering from vascular or muscular diseases.