bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Memoirs of the First 50 Years of the European Federation for Medicinal Chemistry (EFMC)
Authors: Timmerman Henk
Published: October 2020

These memoirs span the first fifty years of the European Federation for Medicinal Chemistry (EFMC). They are the personal observations and remembrance of Prof. Henk Timmerman, who witnessed how the EFMC developed since its inception in December 1969, and are published at the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the EFMC. They include, with permission from the EFMC, material that was previously published in EFMC newsletters. These texts are for the first time united and completed, to tell the history of an organization that has accompanied and shaped the development of medicinal chemistry in Europe. They also highlight, through facts and anecdotes, the role of the men and women who are the scientific leaders and drivers of this extended scientific community.
Inosine 5'‐Monophosphate to Raise Serum Uric Acid Level in Multiple System Atrophy (IMPROVE‐MSA study)
Authors: Jung Lee Jae , Han Yoon Jung , Jin Kim Sang , Soo Yoo Han , Jong Chung Seok , Hyun Lee Yang , Yun Kang Suk , Shin Hae‐Won , Keun Song Sook , Yong Hong Jin , Sunwoo MunKyung , Eun Lee Ji , Sam Baik Jong , Sohn Young H. , Hyu Lee Phil
Published: October 2020

The aim of this trial was to investigate the safety, tolerability, and capability of serum uric acid (UA) elevation of inosine 5'‐monophosphate (IMP) in multiple system atrophy (MSA). The IMPROVE‐MSA trial was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in patients with MSA with no history of hyperuricemia‐related disorders. The participants were assigned to placebo (n = 25) or IMP (n = 30) in a 1 to 1 ratio, and then followed up for 24 weeks. The primary end points included safety, tolerability, and alteration of the serum UA level during the follow‐up period. The secondary end points were changes in scores of the unified MSA rating scale (UMSARS) and the Mini‐Mental Status Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The total number of adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs was comparable between the active and placebo groups. Serum UA level (mg/dL) was significantly increased from baseline (active vs. placebo, 4.57 vs. 4.58; P = 0.98) to study end point (6.96 vs. 4.43; P < 0.001) in the active group compared with the placebo group (time × group interaction; P < 0.001). The change in UMSARS scores did not differ between the active and placebo groups. However, the active group showed better alterations in MoCA scores with nominal significance (P < 0.001) and tendency for better alterations in MMSE scores (P = 0.09) than the placebo group. Our data demonstrated that IMP treatment was generally safe and well‐tolerated in patients with MSA. A further trial with a long‐term follow‐up is required to examine whether UA elevation will slow clinical progression in early MSA.
Genetic drift and bottleneck do not influence diversity in Toll‐like receptor genes at a small spatial scale in a Himalayan passerine
Authors: Nandakumar Mridula , Ishtiaq Farah
Published: October 2020

Genetic diversity is important for long‐term viability of a population. Low genetic diversity reduces persistence and survival of populations and increases susceptibility to diseases. Comparisons of the neutral markers with functional loci such as immune genes [Toll‐like receptors; TLR] can provide useful insights into evolutionary potential of a species and how the diversity of pathogens and selection pressures on their hosts are directly linked to their environment. In this study, we compare genetic diversity in neutral (eleven microsatellite loci) and adaptive (seven TLR loci) loci to determine genetic variation in a nonmigratory western Himalayan passerine, the black‐throated tit (Aegithalos concinnus), distributed across an elevation gradient with varying degree of pathogen‐mediated selection pressure. We further compare the diversity in TLR loci with a high‐elevation sister species, the white‐throated tit (Aegithalos niveogularis). Our results indicate a lack of population genetic structure in the black‐throated tit and signatures of a past bottleneck. In contrast, we found high diversity in TLR loci and locus‐specific (TLR7) signatures of pathogen‐mediated selection, which was comparable to diversity in the white‐throated tit. Levels of diversity at TLR5 locus corresponded very closely with neutral microsatellite variation. We found evidence of positive selection in TLR1LA, TLR5, and TLR7 loci highlighting the importance in pathogen recognition. Our finding demonstrates that reduction in neutral variation does not necessarily lead to reduction in functional genetic diversity and probably helps in revival of population in a widespread species.
Telemonitoring in patients with chronic heart failure and moderate depressed symptoms: results of the Telemedical Interventional Monitoring in Heart Failure (TIM‐HF) study
Authors: Koehler Johanna , Stengel Andreas , Hofmann Tobias , Wegscheider Karl , Koehler Kerstin , Sehner Susanne , Rose Matthias , Deckwart Oliver , Anker Stefan D. , Koehler Friedrich , Laufs Ulrich
Published: October 2020

Aims

Depression is a frequent comorbidity in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Telemonitoring has emerged as a novel option in CHF care. However, patients with depression have been excluded in most telemedicine studies. This pre‐specified subgroup analysis of the Telemedical Interventional Monitoring in Heart Failure (TIM‐HF) trial investigates the effect of telemonitoring on depressive symptoms over a period of 12 months.

Methods and results

The TIM‐HF study randomly assigned 710 patients with CHF to either usual care (UC) or a telemedical intervention (TM) using non‐invasive devices for daily monitoring electrocardiogram, blood pressure and body weight. Depression was evaluated by the 9‐item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) with scores ≥10 defining clinically relevant depressive symptoms. Mixed model repeated measures were performed to calculate changes in PHQ‐9 score. Quality of life was measured by the Short Form‐36. At baseline, 156 patients had a PHQ‐9 score ≥10 points (TM: 79, UC: 77) with a mean of 13.2 points indicating moderate depressiveness. Patients randomized to telemedicine showed an improvement of their PHQ‐9 scores, whereas UC patients remained constant (P = 0.004). Quality of life parameters were improved in the TM group compared to UC. Adjustment was performed for follow‐up, New York Heart Association class, medication, age, current living status, number of hospitalizations within the last 12 months and serum creatinine. In the study population without depression, the PHQ‐9 score was similar at baseline and follow‐up.

Conclusion

Telemedical care improved depressive symptoms and had a positive influence on quality of life in patients with CHF and moderate depression.
Time course of DNA methylation in pain conditions: From experimental models to humans
Authors: Møller Johansen Lonnie , Gerra Maria Carla , Arendt‐Nielsen Lars
Published: October 2020

Background and Objective

Throughout the last decade, research has uncovered associations between pain and epigenetic alterations caused by environmental factors. Specifically, studies have demonstrated correlations between pain conditions and altered DNA methylation patterns. Thus, DNA methylation has been revealed as a possible modulator or contributor to pain conditions, providing a potential therapeutic target for treatment by DNA methylation modification. To develop such treatments, it is necessary to clarify a wide number of aspects on how DNA methylation affects pain perception; first and foremost, the temporal dynamics. The objective of the present review is to provide an overview of current knowledge on temporal dynamics of DNA methylation in response to pain, and to investigate if a timeframe can be established based on the data of currently published studies.

Databases and data treatment

PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar and Embase were searched comprehensively for studies of DNA methylation in neuropathic, inflammatory and alternative animal pain models, and in chronic pain patients including Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, chronic postsurgical pain, chronic widespread pain, fibromyalgia and Crohn's disease.

Results

We identified 34 articles highlighting variations in temporal dynamics of DNA methylation across species and between different types of pain. These studies represent a starting point to uncover new insights in the DNA methylation time course in pain.

Conclusions

No timeframe can currently be made for the DNA methylation response to pain in any of the reviewed conditions, highlighting an important focus area for future research.
Interpretation of cluster structures in pain‐related phenotype data using explainable artificial intelligence (XAI)
Authors: Lötsch Jörn , Malkusch Sebastian
Published: October 2020

Background

In pain research and clinics, it is common practice to subgroup subjects according to shared pain characteristics. This is often achieved by computer‐aided clustering. In response to a recent EU recommendation that computer‐aided decision making should be transparent, we propose an approach that uses machine learning to provide (1) an understandable interpretation of a cluster structure to (2) enable a transparent decision process about why a person concerned is placed in a particular cluster.

Methods

Comprehensibility was achieved by transforming the interpretation problem into a classification problem: A sub‐symbolic algorithm was used to estimate the importance of each pain measure for cluster assignment, followed by an item categorization technique to select the relevant variables. Subsequently, a symbolic algorithm as explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) provided understandable rules of cluster assignment. The approach was tested using 100‐fold cross‐validation.

Results

The importance of the variables of the data set (6 pain‐related characteristics of 82 healthy subjects) changed with the clustering scenarios. The highest median accuracy was achieved by sub‐symbolic classifiers. A generalized post‐hoc interpretation of clustering strategies of the model led to a loss of median accuracy. XAI models were able to interpret the cluster structure almost as correctly, but with a slight loss of accuracy.

Conclusions

Assessing the variables importance in clustering is important for understanding any cluster structure. XAI models are able to provide a human‐understandable interpretation of the cluster structure. Model selection must be adapted individually to the clustering problem. The advantage of comprehensibility comes at an expense of accuracy.
A new UHF/ultra wideband‐radio frequency identification system to solve coexistence issues of ultra wideband‐radio frequency identification and other in‐band narrowband systems
Authors: Mir‐Moghtadaei Sayed Vahid
Published: October 2020

This paper presents a new Ultra Wideband‐Radio Frequency Identification (UWB‐RFID) transceiver to mitigate the coexistence issues of RFID systems and IEEE802.11.a WLAN or other narrowband (NB) systems. The UWB pulse used in the RFID tag is a frequency up‐conversion of the Gaussian pulse first derivative, which has a null in the frequency spectrum. The null is adjusted to be at the center frequency of the WLAN signal, mitigating the mutual interference between RFID and NB systems. In the receiving state, the proposed RFID reader operates in five modes: interference detection, transmitter frequency adjustment by sending commands to the tag, time‐window synchronization, phase and frequency locking, and data reception. During the interference detection mode, the reader serves as a superheterodyne receiver, while it works as an envelope and matched‐filter receiver in the synchronization and locking modes, respectively. In this paper, we show analytically that the reader's frequency in a Phase‐Locked Loop (PLL) can lock on the null frequency of the transmitted signal by the tag. Furthermore, the reader's performance with particular emphasis on PLL and synchronization in the presence of a strong NB interferer is also evaluated. Simulation results demonstrate that the frame synchronization and the phase and frequency lock of the proposed UWB‐RFID transceiver are possible.
Network intrusion detection system: A systematic study of machine learning and deep learning approaches
Authors: Ahmad Zeeshan , Shahid Khan Adnan , Wai Shiang Cheah , Abdullah Johari , Ahmad Farhan
Published: October 2020

The rapid advances in the internet and communication fields have resulted in a huge increase in the network size and the corresponding data. As a result, many novel attacks are being generated and have posed challenges for network security to accurately detect intrusions. Furthermore, the presence of the intruders with the aim to launch various attacks within the network cannot be ignored. An intrusion detection system (IDS) is one such tool that prevents the network from possible intrusions by inspecting the network traffic, to ensure its confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Despite enormous efforts by the researchers, IDS still faces challenges in improving detection accuracy while reducing false alarm rates and in detecting novel intrusions. Recently, machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL)‐based IDS systems are being deployed as potential solutions to detect intrusions across the network in an efficient manner. This article first clarifies the concept of IDS and then provides the taxonomy based on the notable ML and DL techniques adopted in designing network‐based IDS (NIDS) systems. A comprehensive review of the recent NIDS‐based articles is provided by discussing the strengths and limitations of the proposed solutions. Then, recent trends and advancements of ML and DL‐based NIDS are provided in terms of the proposed methodology, evaluation metrics, and dataset selection. Using the shortcomings of the proposed methods, we highlighted various research challenges and provided the future scope for the research in improving ML and DL‐based NIDS.
On the application, reporting, and sharing of in silico simulations for genetic studies
Authors: Riggs Kaleigh , Chen Huann‐Sheng , Rotunno Melissa , Li Bing , Simonds Naoko I. , Mechanic Leah E. , Peng Bo
Published: October 2020

In silico simulations play an indispensable role in the development and application of statistical models and methods for genetic studies. Simulation tools allow for the evaluation of methods and investigation of models in a controlled manner. With the growing popularity of evolutionary models and simulation‐based statistical methods, genetic simulations have been applied to a wide variety of research disciplines such as population genetics, evolutionary genetics, genetic epidemiology, ecology, and conservation biology. In this review, we surveyed 1409 articles from five journals that publish on major application areas of genetic simulations. We identified 432 papers in which genetic simulations were used and examined the targets and applications of simulation studies and how these simulation methods and simulated data sets are reported and shared. Whereas a large proportion (30%) of the surveyed articles reported the use of genetic simulations, only 28% of these genetic simulation studies used existing simulation software, 2% used existing simulated data sets, and 19% and 12% made source code and simulated data sets publicly available, respectively. Moreover, 15% of articles provided no information on how simulation studies were performed. These findings suggest a need to encourage sharing and reuse of existing simulation software and data sets, as well as providing more information regarding the performance of simulations.
Predicting alcohol dependence from multi‐site brain structural measures
Authors: Hahn Sage , Mackey Scott , Cousijn Janna , Foxe John J. , Heinz Andreas , Hester Robert , Hutchinson Kent , Kiefer Falk , Korucuoglu Ozlem , Lett Tristram , Li Chiang‐Shan R. , London Edythe , Lorenzetti Valentina , Maartje Luijten , Momenan Reza , Orr Catherine , Paulus Martin , Schmaal Lianne , Sinha Rajita , Sjoerds Zsuzsika , Stein Dan J. , Stein Elliot , van Holst Ruth J. , Veltman Dick , Walter Henrik , Wiers Reinout W. , Yucel Murat , Thompson Paul M. , Conrod Patricia , Allgaier Nicholas , Garavan Hugh
Published: October 2020

To identify neuroimaging biomarkers of alcohol dependence (AD) from structural magnetic resonance imaging, it may be useful to develop classification models that are explicitly generalizable to unseen sites and populations. This problem was explored in a mega‐analysis of previously published datasets from 2,034 AD and comparison participants spanning 27 sites curated by the ENIGMA Addiction Working Group. Data were grouped into a training set used for internal validation including 1,652 participants (692 AD, 24 sites), and a test set used for external validation with 382 participants (146 AD, 3 sites). An exploratory data analysis was first conducted, followed by an evolutionary search based feature selection to site generalizable and high performing subsets of brain measurements. Exploratory data analysis revealed that inclusion of case‐ and control‐only sites led to the inadvertent learning of site‐effects. Cross validation methods that do not properly account for site can drastically overestimate results. Evolutionary‐based feature selection leveraging leave‐one‐site‐out cross‐validation, to combat unintentional learning, identified cortical thickness in the left superior frontal gyrus and right lateral orbitofrontal cortex, cortical surface area in the right transverse temporal gyrus, and left putamen volume as final features. Ridge regression restricted to these features yielded a test‐set area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.768. These findings evaluate strategies for handling multi‐site data with varied underlying class distributions and identify potential biomarkers for individuals with current AD.
Sensitivity analysis of heat transfer in nanoliquid with inclined magnetic field, exponential space‐based heat source, convective heating, and slip effects
Authors: Mahanthesh B. , Thriveni K.
Published: October 2020

Sensitivity analysis of the rate of heat transport in the flow of nanoliquids over an elongated sheet using the response surface methodology (RSM) in combination with the face‐centered central composite design. The flow is driven due to the velocity slip and the inclined magnetic field effects. Thermal analysis includes aspects of convective heating, Joule heating, viscous heating, and a space‐dependent exponential heat source. The nanoliquid model consists of thermophoresis and random motion mechanisms. A set of coupled partial differential governance equations is rehabilitated into a set of ordinary differential equations using the appropriate transformation. Subsequent nonlinear problem is tackled numerically by utilizing finite difference code that employs the formula of four‐stage Lobatto IIIa. The rate of heat transport is scrutinized by adopting RSM for three effectual parameters, namely magnetic field parameter (), angle of inclination (), and suction parameter ). The velocity and temperature fields were found to be a decreasing function of an angle of inclination of the magnetic field. The velocity range is inversely related to the suction and flow aspects of velocity. Furthermore, the rate of heat transport is more sensitive to the suction parameter than to the magnetic field and to the angle of inclination of the magnetic field.
Formate‐Mediated Cross‐Electrophile Reductive Coupling of Aryl Iodides and Bromopyridines
Authors: Schwartz Leyah A. , Spielmann Kim , Swyka Robert A. , Xiang Ming , Krische Michael J.
Published: October 2020

Two catalytic systems for the formate‐mediated cross‐electrophile reductive coupling of aryl iodides with 6‐bromopyridines are described. Using homogenous rhodium or heterogeneous palladium catalysts, the products of reductive biaryl cross‐coupling could be formed in moderate yield with excellent levels of chemoselectivity.
Sell‐side analysts' recommendations a value or noise
Authors: Vukovic Darko B. , Ugolnikov Vladislav , Maiti Moinak
Published: October 2020

The main objective of the paper is to investigate the analysts’ recommendations’ value and to determine on which market the analysts have more predictive power that can be defined as an extent of a stock price’s reaction around a particular recommendation what leads to abnormal returns of the security. Such recommendations are significant in decision‐making whether to buy or to sell a particular stock. We observed 1,881 events from 168 companies traded at the London Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange in a period between January 1, 2016, and April 31, 2019. We used an event study analysis and classical one‐factor market model to determine expected returns for a particular stock in an estimation window. It was found that both American and European Union markets are feasible to be outperformed by the analysts but it is impossible to highlight any of the markets as they behave almost identically around positive, neutral and negative recommendations.
Oil shocks, financial stability and implementing macroeconomics and macro‐prudential policies in an oil‐exporting economy
Authors: Dargahi Hassan , Hadian Mehdi
Published: October 2020

Since the financial crisis of 2007–2008, macro‐prudential policies have been widely used to achieve financial stability. Moreover, for most oil‐exporting economies, oil revenues are an essential source of fluctuations in macroeconomic variables, which necessitate the adoption of macroeconomic stabilization policies. By constructing a macro‐financial DSGE model, this paper examines the role of macro‐prudential policies in financial stability and how they interact with macroeconomic policies in an oil‐exporting economy. Applying quarterly data of the economy of Iran during 1990–2017, the results show that macroeconomic stabilization policies are not considered as sufficient condition for financial stability. The implementation of macro‐prudential instruments is necessary to reduce financial instability. Moreover, the results indicate that the cooperation of the macro‐prudential and monetary authorities increases the effectiveness of the macro‐prudential and monetary policies.
Effects of sunset yellow on proliferation and differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells in murine intestinal organoids
Authors: Kong Xiunan , Wang Xiu , Qin Yumei , Han Jianzhong
Published: October 2020

Sunset yellow (SY), an azo dye, is commonly used in the food industry. The scientific literature contains little information regarding the effects of SY on small intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). In this study, a small intestinal organoid model was used in in vitro toxicological studies of SY, and intestinal inflammatory responses in vivo to SY were investigated with the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced intestinal inflammation model in C57BL/6 mice. The intestinal organoids were cultured with 2 μg/ml SY for two generations, the growth rates were analyzed, and the expressions of cell lineages were assayed. For inflammatory responses, mice were fed with a diet containing 40 mg/kg diet SY and treated with 2.5% DSS for 7 days. The results showed that SY inhibited the growth of the organoids by inhibiting the proliferation and disturbing the differentiation of IECs. Furthermore, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and oxidative stress levels were elevated in SY‐treated organoids. In DSS‐treated mice, the disease activity index and expression levels of interleukin‐1β and tumor necrosis factor‐α were enhanced in the SY group, concluding that SY exacerbated DSS‐induced intestinal inflammation. Taken together, these findings revealed that SY could disturb the homeostasis of the small intestinal epithelium by generating high levels of ER stress and oxidative stress, with long‐term continuous consumption of SY potentially increasing the risk of intestinal inflammation.
Research on the circular RNA bioinformatics in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Yin Lianli , Tang Yinghua , Jiang Minghe
Published: October 2020

Objective

Through the detection of circular RNA (circRNA) using expression profiling chips, we searched for circRNAs related to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and explored their relationship and possible mechanisms with AMI.

Method

The study subjects included 3 AMI patients and 3 controls, and circRNA expression profiling analysis was performed using a microarray gene chip to identify circRNAs with large differences in expression between groups and to construct a circRNA‐miRNA network.

Results

Compared with the control group, there were 650 differentially expressed circRNAs found in AMI patients (P < .05, fold change > 2), including 535 up‐regulated circRNAs, such as hsa_circ_0050908, hsa_circRNA4010‐22, hsa_circ_0081241, hsa_circ_0010551, hsa_circRNA4010‐20, hsa_circRNA14702, hsa_circ_0115392, has_circRNA1825‐44, has_circRNA8493‐7, and hsa_circ_0025097. Furthermore, there were 115 down‐regulated circRNAs, such as hsa_circ_0066439, hsa_circ_0054211, hsa_circ_0095920, hsa_circ_0122984, hsa_circ_0113067, hsa_circ_0039155, hsa_circRNA4014‐45, hsa_circ_0122979, hsa_circ_0059665, and hsa_circ_0009319. The circRNAs hsa_circ_0066439, hsa_circ_0081241, and hsa_circ_0122984 can regulate multiple signal pathways to participate in the AMI process through hsa‐miR‐1254, hsa‐miR‐328‐5p, and other miRNAs. In addition, the expression of circRNA‐miRNA in peripheral blood is related to the network. Differentially expressed circRNAs are involved in chromatin organization, chromatin‐modifying enzymes, signal transduction, lysine degradation, the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, focal adhesion, and a variety of other pathways, such as myocardial infarction, coronary heart disease, hypertension, and other diseases. The gene ontology analysis results show that molecular function mainly involves binding and molecular structural activity, whereas the biological process mainly involves a single biological process, a cellular component for organization, and a cellular process, and the cellular component mainly involves a protein complex, an extracellular matrix, and a membrane.

Conclusion

circRNA and microRNA interact to participate in the development of AMI. circRNA may be involved in the pathogenesis of AMI.
Novel variants in TBC1D24 associated with epilepsy and deafness: Report of two cases
Authors: Zhang Na , Hou Mei , Ma Shaochun , Liu Yedan , Wei Wei , Chen Zongbo
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To identify the causative variants in two unrelated Chinese patients presenting with epilepsy and deafness.

Methods

The two patients underwent a thorough examination, including brain MRI, EEG and metabolic studies. Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) was performed on genomic DNA samples from the siblings and parents. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the variants.

Results

Gene sequencing revealed that they carried two novel compound heterozygous missense variants of the TBC1D24: c.116 C > T (p.Ala39Val) and c.827 T > C (p.Ile276Thr) in patient 1; c.404 C > T (p.Pro135Leu) and c.679 T > C (p.Arg227Trp) in patient 2. Audiologic examination showed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss in both patients.

Conclusion

We have found novel variants in the TBC1D24 in two Chinese unrelated patients. They result in a rare phenotype, characterized by drug‐resistant epilepsy and deafness.
Fault identification and isolation for components of photovoltaic energy storage system based on IEEE21451 standard
Authors: Jaibalaganesh Tharmalingam , Jayaraman Kamala , Raman Kanthimathi , Srinivasan Vasuhi
Published: October 2020

Major faults arise in power converters mainly due to faulty MOSFET switches, diode and electrolyte capacitors. Converter with fault tolerant circuit improves the overall reliability of DC‐DC converter. We develop a self‐test configuration that identifies the faults in analog to digital converter (ADC), DC to DC converter and battery. IEEE 21451 standard‐based interface is implemented to develop a knowledge‐based smart controller. The centralized controller is performed to execute the maximum power point tracking (MPPT). Photovoltaic (PV) energy storage system is constructing to prove how the converter’s sensing, processing, and actuation capabilities in actual time may allow effective fault identification. The simulation result of the proposed method is executed in the MATLAB/Simulink working platform. The experimental results are implemented with field‐programmable gate array of Spartan‐6 Xilinx. The simulation as well as experimental result shows different fault identification in PV with energy storage system. Battery is provided through 12 V/4.5 Ah battery. The simulation and experimental results make ensure that the proposed method reveals its proficiency. It shows that the received results may fault identification at less than the period of one switching usually by 100 ms with suggested method.
Effect of 1‐MCP and ethylene absorbent on the development of lenticel disorder of ‘Xinli No.7’ pear and possible mechanisms
Authors: Wang Baogang , Wang Yunxiang , Li Wensheng , Zhou Jiahua , Chang Hong , Golding John B
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUD

A common lenticel disorder which occurs in the peel of ‘Xinli No. 7’ pears (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd.) had not previously been described. Symptoms of this lenticel disorder include enlarging and bulging of the lenticels which results in significant commercial losses. Understanding the physiological basis of lenticel disorder and developing practical methods to control it is crucial for the successful marketing of this pear.

RESULTS

The development of this lenticel disorder was found to be closely related to the endogenous ethylene production during storage. 1‐Methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) combined with an ethylene absorbent (EA) treatment was found to significantly reduce the development of the disorder by inhibiting the expression of ethylene related genes, PbACS1, PbACS2 and PbACO. It is proposed that the enlarged lenticels may result from increased lignin accumulation in the peel cells, which is inhibited by this combined postharvest treatment. It was shown that the expression of six lignin related genes decreased following the treatment. The results suggest that PbPAL, Pb4CL and PbCAD could be critical in regulating the development of this lenticel disorder.

CONCLUSION

Endogenous ethylene plays a key role in the development of this lenticel disorder in ‘Xinli No. 7’ pear. The enlarged lenticels which is characteristic of this disorder maybe related to increased lignin accumulation in the peel cells, which were inhibited with 1‐MCP combined with an EA treatment. These results provide a practical method for managing the development of lenticel disorder in ‘Xinli No. 7’ pear and helps clarify the developmental mechanisms of this disorder. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Dietary 25‐hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation improves performance, immunity, antioxidant status, intestinal morphology, and bone quality in weaned piglets
Authors: Zhang Lianhua , Liu Sujie , Piao Xiangshu
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

25‐Hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD3) is a new feed additive, which is a potential alternative to vitamin D3 in swine nutrition. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of different doses of 25OHD3 supplementation on performance, immunity, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology and bone quality in piglets.

RESULTS

As dietary 25OHD3 supplementation increased, the average daily gain (ADG) improved (P < 0.05) quadratically during days 1–14, and tended to increase (P = 0.06) quadratically during the overall period of the experiment. Increasing 25OHD3 supplementation increased (linear effect, P < 0.05) the serum 25OHD3 level and serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activity. On day 14, serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) was increased (linear and quadratic effects, P < 0.05) as dietary 25OHD3 supplementation increased. On day 28, serum IgA level was higher (P < 0.05) linearly and the complement 3 (C3) level was reduced (P < 0.05) linearly as dietary supplementation of 25OHD3 increased. The mucosal GSH‐Px activity of the small intestine was higher (quadratic effect, P < 0.05) with increasing 25OHD3 supplementation. Jejunal villus height (P = 0.06) and villus height to crypt depth ratio (P = 0.07) tended to increase quadratically, and the villus height to crypt‐depth ratio of the ileum increased (P < 0.05) linearly and quadratically with increasing 25OHD3 supplementation. Dietary supplementation with an increasing level of 25OHD3 increased breaking strength of tibias and femurs (quadratic effect, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Increasing dietary 25OHD3 supplementation partly improved performance, immunity, antioxidant status, intestinal morphology, and bone properties of weaned piglets. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Application of high‐pressure homogenization to tailor the functionalities of native wheat starch
Authors: Peressini Donatella , Melchior Sofia , Berlese Margherita , Calligaris Sonia
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

The effect of high‐pressure homogenization (HPH) on the rheological and thermal properties, water retention capacity (WRC), morphology and in vitro digestion of wheat starch was evaluated. Starch suspensions (50 g kg−1, w/w) were treated at increasing pressures (up to 100 MPa) and numbers of cycles (up to 5) to generate a wide range of energy densities (70–500 MJ m−3) delivered to the sample during processing.

RESULTS

High‐pressure homogenization induced a partial starch gelatinization confirmed by higher digestibility. Gelatinization degree (GD) was between 13% and 83%, causing a wide range of functional properties. High‐pressure homogenization‐treated starch samples showed WRC values of 810–1910 g kg−1. Storage modulus (G′) and complex viscosity (η*) of starch dispersions were almost two and three times higher than the control at 13% and 83% GD, respectively. Positive linear relationships between GD (R = 0.98, P < 0.001), WRC (R = 0.87, P < 0.05), or rheological parameters (R = 0.89÷0.90, P < 0.01) and energy density of HPH treatments were found.

CONCLUSION

High‐pressure homogenization treatment represents a promising technology to obtain wheat starch with tailored rheological properties and digestibility, which allows the texture and glycemic response of food products to be adjusted. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Oncologic and functional outcomes following laryngectomy for locally advanced thyroid cancer
Authors: Flukes Stephanie , Cohen Marc A. , Cunningham Louise M. , Wong Richard J. , Cracchiolo Jennifer R.
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

Total laryngectomy in thyroid cancer is controversial. Functional and oncologic outcomes are needed to inform surgical indications in this population.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed at a tertiary referral center from 1997 to 2018 to identify patients with a diagnosis of thyroid carcinoma who underwent total laryngectomy. Complications, survival outcomes, and functional outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 62 years (range, 30–88 years) and the male‐to‐female ratio was 1:2.75. The most common diagnosis was well‐differentiated thyroid cancer (53.3%), followed by poorly differentiated (30%) and anaplastic (16.7%). Total laryngectomy was performed with a 10% rate of Clavien–Dindo Grade III–V complications. The median overall survival was 40 months (range, 1–237). Five‐year overall survival was 39.5% and disease‐specific survival was 51.1%. Locoregional control was achieved in 80.0% of patients. Twelve months postoperatively, 100% of surviving patients were taking oral intake and 86.4% had a self‐reported functional voice.

Conclusion

Total laryngectomy for locally advanced thyroid cancer is safe and provides acceptable rates of locoregional control. While the risk of distant metastases remains high, advances in systemic therapy may justify aggressive local control strategies to improve the quality of life.
Investigation of the grain refining performance of Al‐5Ti‐1B master alloy on the recycling process of A356 alloy
Authors: Peeratatsuwan C. , Chowwanonthapunya T.
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the grain refining performance of Al‐5Ti‐1B master alloy on the recycled A356 alloy is investigated using the macrostructure examination and chemical analysis. Results show that Al‐5Ti‐1B is composed of the dispersion of blocky TiAl3 particles and mixtures of small TiAl3 and TiB2 particles. Both particles refine grain structures of A356 alloy. As the initial recycling process proceeds, A356 alloy still exhibits fine structures. However, during the subsequent recycling process, the grain size of A356 alloy become larger. The concentration of titanium and boron decreases with increasing the number of recycling, especially in the subsequent recycling process. It is proposed that recycling of refined A356 can best be conducted in the initial recycling process and then additional grain refiner needs to be added to maintain the grain refining performance for the continuous recycling process of A356 alloy.
Review: Recent advancement and research possibilities in 4D printing technology
Authors: Singholi A.K.S. , Sharma A.
Published: October 2020

The development of smart materials has provided a new technology in the field of 3D printing which is termed as 4D printing technology. Such development has allowed the researchers to design a material and component which can respond to external stimuli. The present review focuses on an overview of the advancement in 3D printing technology and 4D printing technology and possibilities for further development. Apart from 3 dimensions of 3D printing, 4D printing uses time as fourth dimension to create or modify shape when exposed to stimuli. The parameters which change with time include temperature, water, light, humidity, pH etc. The invention of smart materials, development in fabrication process and deformation model, advancement in printing methods have led to development of 4D printing technology. The ability of smart material to change the shape and design according to their environment and as per the application have enhanced degree of freedom of parts during application. The effect of major components including smart materials, printing methods and stimuli on 4D printing technology have been reviewed. Some recent discoveries have shown promising results but still need to overcome certain impediments.
Researchers say pandemic is fueling a ‘second wave’ of mental health crises
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2020

While countries around the world continue to struggle to manage the death and disruption associated with COVID‐19, accumulating evidence suggests another “second wave” is building: rising rates of mental health and substance use disorders, say New York University researchers in a viewpoint article posted online in JAMA Oct. 12.
Advocates: Supreme Court nominee poses threat to people with disabilities
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2020

As the U.S. Supreme Court nominee last week navigated her way through the Senate Judiciary Committee hearings, advocates representing people with disabilities voiced their opposition, saying the nominee poses a threat to people with serious disabilities, citing concerns about her position on Olmstead v. L.C. and the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
MH app to help people with SMI create crisis treatment plan
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2020

Observing the need for people with a serious mental illness (SMI) to have some form of control over their treatment should there come a time when they are unable to make decisions, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) on Oct. 7 announced the development of a new mobile app to help guide the patient's treatment during a mental health crisis.
AMA cites importance of collaboration in MH care access
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2020

Incorporating mental health services with medical care improves care quality and expands access to behavioral health services, but optimal integration remains limited by cultural and financial barriers, the American Medical Association (AMA) reported Oct. 13. Leading physician organizations have come together to change that, said AMA.
An analytical study on Mittag‐Leffler–confluent hypergeometric functions with fractional integral operator
Authors: Ghanim F. , Al‐Janaby Hiba F.
Published: October 2020

The Mittag‐Leffler function (M‐LF) and confluent hypergeometric function were first created in relation to the interpolation problem for the exponential function. During the 20th century, the gamma function was used to introduce many formulations of these functions. Further investigation in this theme led various scholars to research numerous implementations in applied sciences and other allied disciplines. Recently, the interest in M‐LF has significantly developed and a variety of extensions and generalizations forms have been posed. In this research, we define and study a new function called Mittag‐Leffler–confluent hypergeometric function (MLCHF). Moreover, we examine the integral equations with several analytic implementations.
Classification results for a sub‐elliptic system involving the Δλ‐Laplacian
Authors: Duong Anh Tuan , Giang Trung Hieu , Le Phuong , Vu Thi Hien Anh
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we study a system of the form

where
and Δλ is a sub‐elliptic operator defined by

Under some general hypotheses of the functions λi,
, we first prove that the system has no positive super‐solution when p ≤ 1. In the case p > 1, we establish a Liouville type theorem for the class of stable positive solutions. This result is an extension of some result in Hajlaoui et al. (Pacific J Math. 2014;270(1):79–93) for the case of Laplace operator.
Multi‐Tissue Multi‐Omics Nutrigenomics Indicates Context‐Specific Effects of Docosahexaenoic Acid on Rat Brain
Authors: Zhang Guanglin , Meng Qingying , Blencowe Montgomery , Agrawal Rahul , Gomez‐Pinilla Fernando , Yang Xia
Published: October 2020

Scope

The influence of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on cardiometabolic and cognitive phenotypes, and multi‐omic alterations in the brain under two metabolic conditions is explored to understand context‐specific nutritional effects.

Methods and results

Rats are randomly assigned to a DHA‐rich or a control chow diet while drinking water or high fructose solution, followed by profiling of metabolic and cognitive phenotypes and the transcriptome and DNA methylome of the hypothalamus and hippocampus. DHA reduces serum triglyceride and improves insulin resistance and memory exclusively in the fructose‐consuming rats. In hippocampus, DHA affects genes related to synapse functions in the chow group but immune functions in the fructose group; in hypothalamus, DHA alters immune pathways in the chow group but metabolic pathways in the fructose group. Network modeling reveals context‐specific regulators of DHA effects, including Klf4 and Dusp1 for chow condition and Lum, Fn1, and Col1a1 for fructose condition in hippocampus, as well as Cyr61, JunB, Ier2, and Pitx2 under chow condition and Hcar1, Cdh1, and Osr1 under fructose condition in hypothalamus.

Conclusion

DHA exhibits differential influence on epigenetic loci, genes, pathways, and metabolic and cognitive phenotypes under different dietary contexts, supporting population stratification in DHA studies to achieve precision nutrition.
Adsorption of l‐selenomethionine and l‐selenocystine on the surface of silver nanoparticles: A spectroscopic study
Authors: Dhayagude Akshay C. , Debnath Anil K. , Joshi Satyawati S. , Kapoor Sudhir , Maiti Nandita
Published: October 2020

Adsorption behavior of the seleno‐amino acids viz. l‐selenomethionine (SeMet) and l‐selenocystine (SeCys) on the surface of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) was investigated by surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The bare and functionalized Ag NPs were characterized by UV‐visible absorption, DLS, zeta‐potential measurements and TEM. The Raman spectrum supported by DFT computed spectrum of SeMet and SeCys suggested the existence of zwitterionic and diselenide (Se‐Se) forms in the crystalline state. The SERS study of SeMet and SeCys indicates that the zwitterionic and diselenide forms, respectively bind to the Ag NPs primarily through the Se atom. In case of SeCys, cleavage of the Se‐Se bond occurs on the Ag NPs surface. SERS results; thus, established the active anchoring sites involved in binding for both seleno‐amino acids and XPS analysis confirmed that Se atom was the most active coordinating site with minor involvement of the carboxylate and amino groups. The SERS study of the seleno‐amino acids showed the possibility of change in orientation of SeMet on the Ag NPs surface with alteration in concentration, while no variation in orientation was observed for SeCys. In this study, sensing of the SeMet and SeCys down to 100 nM level was also achieved.
A randomized controlled trial of a structured exercise intervention after the completion of acute cancer treatment in adolescents and young adults
Authors: Atkinson Morgan , Murnane Andrew , Goddard Thomas , Pendergrast Cathy , Rogers Paul , Manudhane Rebecca , Osborn Michael
Published: October 2020

Background

Cancer treatments are frequently associated with impaired physical fitness, quality of life (QOL), and fatigue, often persisting into survivorship.  Studies in older adults with cancer have demonstrated benefits from exercise; however, this has not been rigorously investigated in adolescents and young adults (AYA). The aim of this study was to determine whether a structured 10‐week exercise intervention was associated with improved cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2peak), fatigue, and QOL in AYA who have recently completed cancer treatment.

Method

Forty‐three AYA (median age 21 ± 6 years) were randomly assigned to an exercise group (n = 22) or a control group (n = 21). The exercise group received a structured 10‐week exercise program comprising progressive aerobic and resistance exercise; the control arm received routine care. VO2peak was measured at baseline, 10 weeks, and six months. Fatigue and QOL were assessed by the FACIT fatigue scale and the PEDS QL, respectively.

Results

Mean VO2peak at baseline was 26.5 ± 7.2 mL.kg−1.min−1, which is substantially lower than population norms. The exercise group demonstrated significant improvement in VO2peak at 10 weeks compared with controls (33.8 ± 8.1 vs 29.6 ± 7.6 mL.kg−1.min−1, P = 0.0002), but by six months, the difference was no longer significant (32.9 ± 7.0 vs 30.9 ± 11.0 mL.kg−1.min−1, P = 0.21). There were no significant differences in fatigue or total QOL scores between groups.

Conclusion

Cancer treatment is associated with reduced VO2peak in AYA. Improvement in VO2peak was accelerated by a 10‐week exercise program; however, no significant benefit was observed in QOL or fatigue. The plateau in VO2peak at six months suggests that a maintenance exercise program may be beneficial.
Low‐grade glioma: A rare second tumor in retinoblastoma survivors
Authors: Dalvi Nagma , Kleinerman Ruth A. , Epelman Sidnei , Abramson David H. , Dunkel Ira J.
Published: October 2020

Retinoblastoma survivors with a germline RB1 mutation are at elevated risk for secondary (nonocular) malignancy, but their risk for low‐grade glioma (LGG) is unknown. We performed a retrospective review of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the NCI databases that revealed that three of the 837 5‐year survivors of hereditary retinoblastoma were diagnosed with an LGG and a fourth patient (but unilateral and without a germline mutation) was identified at another center. Retinoblastoma survivors may be at increased risk for LGG.