bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long noncoding RNAs and the regulation of innate immunity and host-virus interactions
Authors: Basavappa Megha , Cherry Sara , Henao-Mejia Jorge
Published: February 2019

Immune responses are both pathogen and cell type-specific. The innate arm of immunity is characterized by rapid intracellular signaling cascades resulting in the production of hundreds of antimicrobial effectors that protect the host organism. Long noncoding RNAs have been shown to operate as potent modulators of both RNA and protein function throughout cell biology. Emerging data suggest that this is also true within innate immunity. LncRNAs have been shown to regulate both innate immune cell identity and the transcription of gene expression programs critical for innate immune responses. Here, we review the diverse roles of lncRNAs within innate defense with a specific emphasis on host-virus interactions.
Direct flow injection profiling of acyl glycerols from food products using isopropanol as solvent
Authors: Longo Edoardo , Morozova Ksenia , Yener Sine , Boselli Emanuele , Biasioli Franco , Scampicchio Matteo
Published: February 2019

This work proposes a novel method for the direct flow injection profiling of acylglycerols in edible oils and fats without preliminary extraction and consequent reconstitution in the injection solvent. The work exploits the outstanding performance of high‐resolution mass spectrometry to target unique elemental compositions even in the most complex matrices. The performance of isopropanol as the unique solvent for both the solubilization and analysis of acylglycerols was investigated in comparison with other classical methods involving preliminary extractions, sample recovery, and analysis. The calibrations of two triglyceride standards (triolein and trilinolenin) were successfully performed in presence and absence of oil matrix. As final application, the effects on the acylglycerol fraction of a heat treatment on three different fat samples (extra virgin olive oil, lard oil, and fat from dry cured ham—speck) were monitored. The proposed method is therefore suitable for a rapid evaluation of acylglycerol fractions in food lipid samples.
Switching to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate vs continuing treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis B who maintain long‐term virological response to entecavir therapy: A randomized trial
Authors: Iida‐Ueno Ayako , Enomoto Masaru , Kozuka Ritsuzo , Tamori Akihiro , Kawada Norifumi
Published: February 2019

No controlled trial in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on long‐term entecavir (ETV) treatment, comparing switching to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) with continuing the therapy, has been reported. Twenty‐seven nucleos(t)ide‐naïve patients with chronic HBV who underwent ETV therapy for ≥5 years and maintained virological response were included and randomized into two groups: one group continued ETV, and the other switched to TDF, in a 1:2 ratio. The primary endpoint was changed from baseline in serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) level at week 48. The baseline characteristics were not different between nineteen patients in the TDF group and eight patients in the ETV group. Mean decreases in HBsAg level at week 48 were 0.023 and 0.042 log10 IU/mL in the TDF and ETV groups, respectively (P = 0.94). The mean drops in hepatitis B core‐related antigens were also not different between the TDF and ETV groups at week 48 (P = 0.80). HBV DNA was sustainedly <2.1 log
10 copies/mL in all patients throughout the study period. In contrast, the mean aminotransferase levels were significantly higher in the TDF group than in the ETV group at weeks 12, 24, and 36, although being within the reference range. Estimated glomerular filtration rate was lower in the TDF group than in the ETV group at weeks 24 (P = 0.016) and 48 (P = 0.003). In conclusion, we could not find the effect on reducing HBsAg level by switching to TDF in chronic hepatitis B patients with maintained virological response to ETV for ≥5 years.
Maintaining complete virological suppression by reduced doses of nucleos(t)ide analogue in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Hsu Chao‐Wei , Yeh Charisse , Yeh Chau‐Ting
Published: February 2019

In patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), withdrawal of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) can put patients at risk of hepatitis relapses. Here, we examined a dose‐reducing strategy. From March 2008 to September 2016, 48 patients with CHB who had received full‐dose NA (35 entecavir; 13 tenofovir) and achieved complete virological response (lasting for >1 year), were placed on a reduced dose of antivirals (twice a week) subsequently. In a median follow‐up period of 33.2 months, only one patient experienced a virological but not biochemical breakthrough. No deterioration of estimated glomerular filtration rate was found. This strategy could be used in areas where full dose, lifelong treatment is unachievable.
Imaging of proteoglycan and water contents in human articular cartilage with full‐body CT using dual contrast technique
Authors: Honkanen Miitu K. M. , Matikka Hanna , Honkanen Juuso T. J. , Bhattarai Abhisek , Grinstaff Mark W. , Joukainen Antti , Kröger Heikki , Jurvelin Jukka S. , Töyräs Juha
Published: February 2019

Assessment of cartilage composition via tomographic imaging is critical after cartilage injury to prevent post‐traumatic osteoarthritis. Diffusion of cationic contrast agents in cartilage is affected by proteoglycan loss and elevated water content. These changes have opposite effects on diffusion and, thereby, reduce the diagnostic accuracy of cationic agents. Here, we apply, for the first time, a clinical full‐body CT for dual contrast imaging of articular cartilage. We hypothesize that full‐body CT can simultaneously determine the diffusion and partitioning of cationic and non‐ionic contrast agents and that normalization of the cationic agent partition with that of the non‐ionic agent minimizes the effect of water content and tissue permeability, especially at early diffusion time points. Cylindrical (d = 8 mm) human osteochondral samples (n = 45; four cadavers) of a variable degenerative state were immersed in a mixture of cationic iodinated CA4+ and non‐charged gadoteridol contrast agents and imaged with a full‐body CT scanner at various time points. Determination of contrast agents’ distributions within cartilage was possible at all phases of diffusion. At early time points, gadoteridol, and CA4+ distributed throughout cartilage with lower concentrations in the deep cartilage. At ≥24 h, the gadoteridol concentration remained nearly constant, while the CA4+ concentration increased toward deep cartilage. Normalization of the CA4+ partition with that of gadoteridol significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced correlation with proteoglycan content and Mankin score at the early time points. To conclude, the dual contrast technique was found advantageous over single contrast imaging enabling more sensitive diagnosis of cartilage degeneration. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 9999:1–12, 2019.
Potential involvement of semaphorin 3A in maintaining intervertebral disc tissue homeostasis
Authors: Mima Yuichiro , Suzuki Satoshi , Fujii Takeshi , Morikawa Takayuki , Tamaki Shinpei , Takubo Keiyo , Shimoda Masayuki , Miyamoto Takeshi , Watanabe Kota , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Fujita Nobuyuki
Published: February 2019

Intervertebral discs (IVDs) are avascular; however, ingrowth of blood vessels into their outer regions has been noted during the progression of degeneration. The mechanisms underlying vascularization in IVD degeneration are not completely understood. Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A), originally characterized as a chemorepulsive factor for growing axons in the developing nervous system, inhibits angiogenesis. This study aimed to elucidate the potential involvement of Sema3A in maintaining tissue homeostasis within the avascular IVD. We demonstrated that the mRNA expression of Sema3A was higher in rat annulus fibrosus (AF) than in nucleus pulposus (NP) and that its expression level decreased with age. Both mRNA and protein expression level of Sema3A was also markedly suppressed in AF tissues of a rat IVD degeneration model. Both real‐time RT‐PCR and Western blot clearly indicated that Sema3A expression significantly reduced by treating inflammatory cytokines in rat AF cells. In a gain‐ and loss‐of‐function study, we observed that Sema3A reduced the catabolic shift in rat AF cells. In addition, our results indicated that Sema3A potentially inhibited the IL‐6/JAK/STAT pathway. Finally, BrdU assay and tube formation assay revealed that treatment of recombinant Sema3A significantly blocks both proliferation and tube formation of HUVEC. Our results indicate that Sema3A may help maintain IVD tissue homeostasis. Thus, although further studies are needed, Sema3A may be a potential molecular target for suppressing IVD degeneration. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Ridge preservation of extraction sockets with buccal bone deficiency using poly lactide‐co‐glycolide coated β‐tricalcium phosphate bone grafts: An experimental study in dogs
Authors: Okada Munehiro , Matsuura Takanori , Akizuki Tatsuya , Hoshi Shu , Shujaa Addin Ammar , Fukuba Shunsuke , Izumi Yuichi
Published: February 2019

Background

The alveolar ridge undergoes pronounced reduction in height and width following tooth extraction. This study aims to comparatively evaluate the potential for ridge preservation in extraction sockets with buccal bone deficiency of β‐tricalcium phosphate coated with poly lactide‐co‐glycolide (β‐TCP/PLGA) and conventional particulate β‐TCP.

Methods

In six beagles, maxillary first premolars were extracted after removal of their buccal bone plates. Standardized bone defects (4 [mesiodistal width] × 4 [buccopalatal width] × 5 [depth] mm) were created at the sites of extraction sockets and filled with β‐TCP/PLGA (test sites) or particulate β‐TCP (control sites). Microcomputed tomography, histologic, and histometric evaluations were performed 12 weeks post‐surgery.

Results

The test sites exhibited a significantly greater bone volume than the control sites (25.7 ± 2.14 versus 16.0 ± 3.3 mm3), although no statistically significant difference was detected in bone material density (746.3 ± 23.9 versus 714.5 ± 37.0 g/cm3, respectively). Relative to the control sites, the test sites exhibited significantly greater alveolar‐ridge coronal (2.0 ± 0.4 versus 1.1 ± 0.3 mm) and middle (2.9 ± 0.2 versus 2.1 ± 0.3 mm) horizontal widths and proportions of woven bone (50.3 ± 8.1% versus 38.0 ± 5.2%) and bone marrow (17.7 ± 6.6% versus 9.7 ± 4.1%) but a significantly lower proportion of connective tissue (10.7 ± 4.5% versus 18.3 ± 5.7%).

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, the moldable β‐TCP/PLGA graft appears to exhibit a greater potential than the conventional particulate β‐TCP graft for ridge preservation of extraction sockets with buccal bone deficiency.
Biostimulant effects of Bacillus strains on wheat from in vitro towards field conditions are modulated by nitrogen supply
Authors: Nguyen Minh Luan , Glaes Johann , Spaepen Stijn , Bodson Bernard , du Jardin Patrick , Delaplace Pierre
Published: February 2019

Bacillus velezensis strains, belonging to plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), are increasingly used as microbial biostimulant. However, their field application to winter wheat under temperate climate remains poorly documented. Therefore, three B. velezensis strains IT45, FZB24 and FZB42 were tested for their efficacy under these conditions. Two biological interaction systems were firstly developed under gnotobiotic and greenhouse conditions combined with sterile or non‐sterile soil, respectively, and finally assayed in the field during two years coupled with different N fertilization rates. Under gnotobiotic conditions, all three strains significantly increased root growth of 14 d‐old spring and winter wheat seedlings. In the greenhouse using non‐sterile soil, only FZB24 significantly increased root biomass of spring wheat (+31%). The three strains were able to improve nutrient uptake of the spring wheat grown in the greenhouse, particularly for the micronutrients Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu, but the observed increases in nutrient uptake were dependent on the organs and the elements. The root biomass increases in inoculated plants coincided with lowered nutrient concentrations of P and K. In 2014, under field conditions and absence of any N fertilizer supply, FZB24 significantly increased grain yields by 983 kg ha−1, or 14.9%, in relation to non‐inoculated controls. The three strains in the 2015 field trial failed to confirm the previous positive results, likely due to the low temperatures occurring during and after inoculations. The Zeleny sedimentation value, indicative of flour quality, was unaffected by the inoculants. The results are discussed in the perspective of bacterial application to wheat under temperate agricultural practices.
Physiological and genetic changes during natural senescence of Medicago truncatula root nodules
Authors: El Msehli Sarra , Lambert Annie , Hopkins Julie , Boncompagni Eric , Smiti-Aschi Samira , Hérouart Didier , Frendo Pierre
Published: February 2019

Under nitrogen‐limiting conditions, legumes are able to form a symbiotic interaction with bacteria of the Rhizobiaceae family to produce root nodules. These new root organs satisfy plant nitrogen needs by reducing atmospheric nitrogen to ammonium. However, the senescence of these organs disturbs the assimilation of nitrogen. In this study, we present different histological, biochemical, and genetic markers of the natural nodule senescence in Medicago truncatula over a 10‐week period following bacterial inoculation. During aging the length and the weight of nodules increased, whereas the nitrogen‐fixing capacity of the nodules decreased. The development of the nodule senescence zone correlated with a reduction in leghemoglobin levels without significant reduction in the total protein concentration of the nodule. In contrast, no difference in glutathione and homoglutathione concentration was detected at the onset of senescence at 6 and 8 weeks after bacterial infection. Furthermore, we observed a significant decrease in the relative transcription levels of Nodule Cysteine Rich 001, MtLb1, sucrose synthase 1, thioredoxin S1 and thioredoxin S2 genes, which are involved in nodule development and functioning, thus demonstrating that natural senescence impacts the transcription of genes involved in the expansion and the metabolism of the nitrogen‐fixing zone. Finally, the induction of amine oxidase and cysteine protease CP6 transcription was unstable, suggesting that these two genes are related to senescence but are not robust gene markers of the natural senescence process. Considered together, our results define novel biochemical and genetic markers for natural nodule senescence and show that leghemoglobin gene transcription and protein concentration are robust markers that closely correlate with nitrogen fixation efficiency.
Culinary herbs and spices: what can human studies tell us about their role in the prevention of chronic non‐communicable diseases?
Authors: Opara Elizabeth I
Published: February 2019

Culinary herbs and spices (CHS) are known primarily as flavour enhancers, and it is now well established that they possess bioactive properties that indicate that these foods may have a role to play in the prevention of non‐communicable chronic diseases (CNCDs). Human studies are now beginning to provide insights into the significance of the potential health benefits of CHS in a dietary context, particularly concerning their antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties and their impact on glucose homeostasis, appetite and the consumption of low/reduced fat, salt and sugar foods. However, these studies have also identified a number of factors that are very pertinent to furthering understanding of how CHS can be used for the maintenance of health and the prevention of CNCDs. The challenge for the next phase of studies will be how to incorporate, successfully, these factors into study methodology for investigating the preventative benefits of these foods. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Identification of infectious species after resection of soft‐tissue sarcomas
Authors: Ramsey Duncan C. , Jones Ryan A. , Weiss Jason K. , Hayden Wyatt , Hayden James , Barnes Penelope , Doung Yee‐Cheen
Published: February 2019

Background

Pathogenic species in deep tissue infections after soft‐tissue sarcoma (STS) resection is largely unstudied, particularly the role of anaerobic bacteria, risks factors for those pathogens, and the time course of infection presentation.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 64 patients requiring operative debridement for deep tissue infection after STS resection was undertaken to identify infectious species and study risk factors for anaerobic infections. Kaplan–Meier methods examined the time course of infection presentation.

Results

STS subtypes were most commonly pleomorphic STS, myxofibrosarcoma, and undifferentiated STS. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism isolated (56%). Twenty (31%) infections were positive for ≥1 anaerobic organism. Twelve gram‐positive and 10 gram‐negative aerobic organisms were isolated. Most (90%) anaerobic‐containing infections were polymicrobial, vs 52% of purely aerobic infections. No significant risk factors for anaerobic infections were identified. Median time from tumor resection until debridement was significantly greater for anaerobic infections (54.5 days) than for purely aerobic infections (29.5 days;
P = 0.004), a difference so pronounced that using “presentation after 53 days” as a proxy for the presence of anaerobic pathogens had an accuracy of 81%.

Conclusions

Because polymicrobial and anaerobic bacterial infections are common, we strongly support antibiotic use with anaerobic coverage at debridement, particularly for infections presenting later.
Lower Trunk Muscle Thickness Is Associated With Pain in Women With Patellofemoral Pain
Authors: Briani Ronaldo Valdir , Waiteman Marina Cabral , de Albuquerque Carlos Eduardo , Gasoto Eduardo , Segatti Gabriel , Oliveira Crystian Bitencourt , de Azevedo Fábio Mícolis , de Oliveira Silva Danilo
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To compare trunk muscle thickness of women with and without patellofemoral pain (PFP) and to assess the association of trunk muscle thickness with self‐reported pain of women with PFP.

Methods

Forty‐four women were recruited and divided into 2 groups: a PFP group (n = 22) and a pain‐free group (n = 22). The thickness of the following trunk muscles was obtained by B‐mode ultrasound imaging: transversus abdominis, obliquus internus (OI), obliquus externus (OE), rectus abdominis, and multifidus. Self‐reported pain was measured on a visual analog scale.

Results

The 44 participants were 18 to 35 years old. Women with PFP had lower thickness of the OI and OE than pain‐free women, with moderate or large effect sizes ranging from –0.78 to –0.98, which was negatively related to self‐reported pain correlations (r = –0.53 to –0.40). The contraction ratios of the OI and OE were also lower in women with PFP than in pain‐free women (P < .05). No differences between groups were found for the transversus abdominis, multifidus, and rectus abdominis, with also no correlation with self‐reported pain.

Conclusions

Lower thickness of the OI and OE is present in women with PFP, which is related to self‐reported pain. These findings might help in understanding the alterations in trunk biomechanics of individuals with PFP and the mechanisms by which interventions targeting trunk muscle strength are beneficial to individuals with PFP.
Data trend shifts induced by method of concentration for trace metals in seawater: Automated online preconcentration vs. borohydride reductive coprecipitation of nearshore seawater samples for analysis of Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb via ICP‐MS
Authors: Strivens Jonathan E. , Brandenberger Jill M. , Johnston Robert K.
Published: February 2019

This research compares performance, reproducibility, and detection limits of ambient seawater analysis for trace metals using both borohydride reductive coprecipitation and an automated chelation column (seaFAST™ 2) preconcentration for matrix interferent elimination on total and dissolved grab samples in nearshore to marine waters, over a broad concentration range, prior to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) injection. A move to an online preconcentration method both minimizes sample preparation, and eliminates correction errors when accounting for trace impurities in precipitated samples, induced via reagents. The reproducability of the online preconcentration method described, coupled with low blanks and method detection limits (MDLs), demonstrates the effectiveness of the automated procedure using ethylenediaminetriacetic and iminodiacetate acid chelation exchange resin and multianalyte determination by ICP‐MS for total and dissolved Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb in marine water samples. Average CASS‐5 recoveries using the online preconcentration method (n = 9) were 109% ± 7%, 104% ± 5%, 103% ± 7%, 101% ± 3%, and 86% ± 8%, respectively. The MDLs obtained from the automated method for Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were 3.3, 1.8, 13.5, 4, and 10 times lower, respectively, than for the Borohydride method. There were statistically significant differences between the methods for CASS‐5 recoveries of Ni, Cu, Zn (p < 0.0001), and Pb (p = 0.0024). Comparison of methods gave high concordance (rC ≥ 0.90) between methods for total and dissolved Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb, and total Cd.
Novel variants of CYP21A2 in Vietnamese patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Chi Dung V. , Tran Thinh H. , Nguyen Duc H. , Luong Long H. , Le Phuong T. , Ta Minh H. , Ngo Huong T. T. , Nguyen Mai P. , Le‐Anh Tuan P. , Nguyen Dat P. , Bui The‐Hung , Ta Van T. , Tran Van K.
Published: February 2019

Background

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) (OMIM #201910) is a complex disease most often caused by pathogenic variant of the CYP21A2 gene. We have designed an efficient multistep approach to diagnose and classify CAH cases due to CYP21A2 variant and to study the genotype‐phenotype relationship.

Methods

A large cohort of 212 Vietnamese patients from 204 families was recruited. We utilized Multiplex Ligation‐dependent Probe Amplification to identify large deletion or rearrangement followed by complete gene sequencing of CYP21A2 to map single‐nucleotide changes and possible novel variants.

Results

Pathogenic variants were identified in 398 out of 408 alleles (97.5%). The variants indexed span across most of the CYP21A2 gene regions. The most common genotypes were: I2g/I2g (15.35%); Del/Del (14.4%); Del/I2g (10.89%); p.R356W/p.R356W (6.44%); and exon 1–3 del/exon 1–3 del (5.44%). In addition to the previously characterized and documented variants, we also discovered six novel variants which were not previously reported, in silico tools were used to support the pathogenicity of these variants.

Conclusion

The result will contribute in further understanding the genotype‐phenotype relationship of CAH patients and to guide better treatment and management of the affected.
Amelioration of Growth Performance, Lipid Accumulation, and Intestinal Health in Mice by a Cooked Mixture of Lean Meat and Resistant Starch
Authors: Wang Xi‐xi , Pan Qiong , Ma Fei , Li Pei‐jun , Xu Bao‐cai , Chen Cong‐gui
Published: February 2019

Scope

The intake of resistant starch (RS) may attenuate the risks of chronic illness, including colorectal cancer. However, whether the attenuated functionality of RS is maintained in cooked meat products needs to be clarified.

Methods and results

The effects of a cooked mixture of lean pork meat and RS (MS) on the growth performance, lipid accumulation, and intestinal health of mice is investigated compared to those of RS‐free cooked meat (M) and the addition of RS to cooked meat (M+S). The results show that both M+S and MS diets improve growth performance, alleviate lipid accumulation, and ameliorate colon health via promoting food intake and body weight gain, attenuating adipose tissue weight and triglyceride levels in liver and serum, regulating short‐chain fatty acids and ammonia concentrations, ameliorating gut morphology and remodeling the gut microbiome, including Desulfovibrio, Escherichia–Shigella, Lactococcus, Ruminococcus 2, and the Firmicutes‐to‐Bacteroidetes ratio in mice, compared to the M diet. In particular, the MS diet exerts preferable effects on promoting growth performance and intestinal benefits and alleviating lipid accumulation in mice.

Conclusion

Cooked mixtures of meat and RS are promising for developing novel functional meat products for nutritional health interventions.
Broadband terahertz reflector through electric and magnetic resonances by all dielectric cylinder microstructure
Authors: Fang Bo , Li Chenxia , Peng Yandong , Jing Xufeng
Published: February 2019

We present the broadband perfect reflection in terahertz range by using all dielectric cylinder microstructure through Mie resonance in high refractive index resonator. Compared with metal plasma structure, all dielectric metamaterial can realize low loss and high efficiency. For the common metamaterial microstructure with 1 cylinder resonator in 1 unit cell, the reflectance of more than 99% can be achieved in the band from 1.27 to 1.46 THz, and the perfect reflection of bandwidth of 0.19 THz can be reached. Importantly, linear superposition effect of the spectrum can be further expanded by 2 or 4 cylinder resonators in 1 unit cell to achieve wider bandwidth of reflection. However, Fano resonances can be excited by the interaction between resonators, resulting in a defect of broadband reflection. It is expected that the ultra broadband can be realized by using this supercell metamaterial structure with avoiding Fano resonances through precise design.
Super‐wideband cascaded bandpass filter using suspended substrate stripline technology
Authors: McDaniel Jay , Yan Jie‐Bang , Gogineni Prasad
Published: February 2019

This paper presents a wideband cascaded bandpass filter with a fractional bandwidth of 160% centered at 10 GHz using suspended substrate stripline technology. The highpass and lowpass filters are both 11th‐order generalized Chebyshev designs with a cutoff frequency of 2 and 18 GHz, respectively, and cascaded to form a continuous 2‐18 GHz bandpass filter. Simulated and measured results of all of the filters show good agreement, and measured results of the cascaded bandpass filter shows less than 2 dB of insertion loss and greater than 10 dB of return loss over the entire passband.
A wideband back‐to‐back U‐shaped monopole antenna
Authors: Zheng Yaqiang , Gao Min
Published: February 2019

A wideband back‐to‐back U‐shaped monopole antenna with conical radiation pattern is presented in this article. The proposed antenna has a simple and compact structure and a grounded coplanar waveguide is used to feed the antenna. Compared with the single U‐shaped structure for radiating, the proposed back‐to‐back U‐shaped configuration can enhance the impedance bandwidth effectively. The performance characteristics of the proposed antenna are verified by an elaborate antenna prototype. Valuable consistence is obtained between the simulated and experimental results. The experimental results show that the antenna owns a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 95.8% (ranging from 1.25 to 3.55 GHz) and a peak gain of 3.75 dBi occurring at 2.8 GHz. The radiation patterns are stable with low cross polarization levels within the bandwidth. These merits can make the proposed antenna a good choice for modern indoor wireless communication systems.
An embedded boundary method for an inviscid compressible flow coupled to deformable thin structures: The mediating body method
Authors: Jamond O. , Beccantini A.
Published: February 2019

This article deals with fast transient phenomena involving fluids and structures undergoing large displacements and rotations, associated with nonlinear local behavior, such as plasticity, damage, and failure. A new approach is proposed to handle the interaction between a structure and the compressible fluid it is immersed into. The equations governing the evolution of the structure and the fluid are discretized using Lagrangian shell finite‐elements and Eulerian cell‐centered finite volume approaches, respectively. The meshes of the structure and the fluid are totally independent from one another and fully unstructured. The proposed method uses an intermediate body through which the physical quantities are exchanged between the fluid and the structure. It relies on the solution of local one‐dimensional fluid‐structure Riemann problems in local frames related to the normal of the structure. Since the proposed approach does not require to subdivide the fluid cell according to the structure geometry, it can deal with complex nonmanifold thin structures. Nevertheless, it is shown through some numerical experiments that, thanks to some features described in this article, the method provides accurate results. It is also shown that the method can cope with large 3D problems.
Morphometrical distinction between sheep (Ovis aries) and goat (Capra hircus) using the petrosal bone: Application on French Protohistoric sites
Authors: Mallet Christophe , Cornette Raphaël , Guadelli Jean‐Luc
Published: February 2019

Often present in the archaeological record but rarely studied in archaeozoology, the petrosal part of the temporal bone provides important distinctive features allowing specific determination, despite a confusing morphological variability. Here, we propose to use this bone to untangle the question of the distinction between sheep and goat—two close taxa that are usually difficult to distinguish in the fossil record. We evaluated our method on Neolithic and Protohistoric specimens found in sites from Southwestern France in addition to a modern reference sample. Anatomical description and diameter measurements defined on the medial side proved to be relevant to discriminate those caprines, even on the fossil record, characterised by a high frequency of breakage. Our results highlighted the importance of reducing the size effect by transforming the data because of the great variability of the petrosal. The use of log‐shape ratios transformation allowed us to visualise the shape variation of this bone for both modern and ancient specimens. The k‐nearest neighbours method proved the efficiency of our measurements to classify these species. This study interrogates the origin of intraspecific morphological variation, probably due to ontogenetic development and breeds. It also raises questions on the identification of the domestication processes through the use of the petrosal bone.
Longitudinal Associations of Sleep Duration, Morning and Evening Cortisol, and BMI During Childhood
Authors: Marceau Kristine , Abel Emily A. , Duncan Robert J. , Moore Phillip J. , Leve Leslie D. , Reiss David , Shaw Daniel S. , Natsuaki Misaki , Neiderhiser Jenae M. , Ganiban Jody M.
Published: February 2019

Objective

This study aimed to examine associations between sleep duration, BMI, and cortisol levels across childhood.

Methods

Participants included 361 children adopted domestically in the United States. Random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel models tested for between‐person and bidirectional within‐person associations of sleep duration, BMI, and morning and evening cortisol at age 4.5 to 9 years.

Results

Sleep duration and BMI were stable during childhood, inversely associated at the between‐person level, and unrelated to morning or evening cortisol. BMI at age 6 years predicted longer sleep duration and lower evening cortisol at age 7 years, and lower morning cortisol at age 7 years predicted higher BMI at age 9 years within individuals.

Conclusions

The association between sleep and BMI is more likely a stable between‐person phenomenon rather than a unidirectional association that develops within individuals over time.
Sex ratio among childhood cancers by single year of age
Authors: Williams Lindsay A. , Richardson Michaela , Marcotte Erin L. , Poynter Jenny N. , Spector Logan G.
Published: February 2019

Background

The male excess in childhood cancer incidence is well‐established; however, the underlying biologic mechanisms remain unknown. Examining the association between male sex and childhood cancer by single year of age and tumor type may highlight important periods of risk such as variation in growth and hormonal changes, which will inform etiologic hypotheses.

Methods

Using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 18 registries (2000–2015), incidence rate ratios (IRR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated as the measure of association between male sex and childhood cancer by single year of age (0–19).

Results

The IRR for male cancer overall was 1.19 (95% CI, 1.18–1.20) and was similar in magnitude at nearly every year of age. Burkitt lymphoma was strongly associated with male sex (IRRs ≥2 at each year of age). Increased incidence was observed among males for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Hodgkin and non‐Hodgkin lymphomas for nearly all years of age. Medulloblastoma was the only central nervous system tumor with a significant male predominance at nearly every age. Male sex displayed a consistent inverse association with nephroblastoma and thyroid carcinoma over the ages studied.

Conclusions

Male sex was positively associated with most cancers. The higher incidence rates observed in males remained consistent over the childhood and adolescent periods, suggesting that childhood and adolescent hormonal fluctuations may not be the primary driving factor for the sex disparities in childhood cancer. The observed incidence disparities may be due to sex differences in exposures, genetics, or immune responses.
Lumbar Multifidus and Erector Spinae Muscle Synergies in Patients with Nonspecific Low Back Pain During Prone Hip Extension: A Cross‐sectional Study
Authors: Wattananon Peemongkon , Silfies Sheri P. , Tretriluxana Jarugool , Jalayondeja Wattana
Published: February 2019

Background

Prone hip extension is used to clinically assess movement control in patients with nonspecific low back pain (LBP). Excessive lumbopelvic movements and altered muscle activation patterns are common in patients with nonspecific LBP. However, no evidence exists regarding lumbar multifidus and lumbar erector spinae muscle synergy patterns in patients with nonspecific LBP during this clinical test.

Objective

To determine the difference in lumbopelvic motion and change in muscle synergy between patients with nonspecific LBP and healthy individuals.

Design

A cross‐sectional study design.

Setting

University physical therapy clinic and laboratory.

Participants

Seven patients with nonspecific LBP (age [mean ± SD] 29 ± 5 years, 43% female, body mass index [BMI] of 25 ± 2 kg/m2, Numeric Pain Rating Scale 6 ± 2; Oswestry Disability Index 20% ± 8%) and seven age‐, sex‐, and BMI‐matched healthy individuals (mean age 28 ± 5 years, 43% female, BMI of 22 ± 2 kg/m2) were recruited.

Methods

Each participant performed six repetitions of prone hip extension on each side; kinematic and electromyographic data were collected simultaneously.

Main Outcome Measurements

Kinematic data were used to represent lumbopelvic motion, whereas electromyography (EMG) data were used to represent muscle activity. A paired t‐test was used to determine the difference in lumbopelvic motion. Principal component analysis and two‐way repeated‐measures analysis of variance were used to extract muscle synergies and identify differences in muscle synergy patterns between and within groups.

Results

Results demonstrated no significant group difference (P > .05) in amount of lumbopelvic motion. However, healthy individuals synergistically activate lumbar multifidus and lumbar erector spinae with 81.0% variance accounted for (VAF). Patients with nonspecific LBP had an altered synergy with independent activation of lumbar multifidus on the painful side with 32.0% VAF and the lumbar multifidus on the nonpainful side, and both lumbar erector spinae with 52.2% VAF synergistically activated.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that clinicians should focus on muscle activation patterns rather than the amount of lumbopelvic motion during clinical observation of prone hip extension.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Minor amounts of glycerol improve the properties of polyisobutylene‐based polyurethane and its nanocomposites
Authors: Nugay Nihan , Nugay Turgut , Kennedy Joseph P.
Published: February 2019

The synthesis of primary hydroxyl‐telechelic polyisobutylene, HOCH2‐PIB‐CH2OH, often yields product the number average terminal functionality () of which is less than theoretical 2.0, typically  = 1.75–1.95. Polyurethane (PU) prepared with such low‐cost imperfect PIB‐diols, unsurprisingly, exhibit poor overall properties. Herein we report that mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties of polyisobutylene‐based polyurethane (PIB‐PU) and PIB‐PU reinforced with organically modified montmorillonite (OmMMT) prepared with PIB‐diol of  = 1.85 are significantly enhanced by glycerol. Specifically, we document that calculated minor amounts of glycerol substantially improves tensile strength, ultimate elongation, elastic modulus, toughness, rubbery plateau, flow temperature, creep, permanent set, rate of recovery after loading, and thermal properties of PIB‐PU and OmMMT‐reinforced PIB‐PU prepared with PIB‐diol of  = 1.85. The observations are summarized and discussed in terms of chemistry, micromorphology, and viscoelasticity. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 929–935
Experiences with a psychosocial screening instrument (S‐FIRST) to identify the psychosocial support needs of parents of children suffering from cancer
Authors: Haunberger Sigrid , Rüegger Cornelia , Baumgartner Edgar
Published: February 2019

Objectives

A large proportion of families with a child suffering from cancer are heavily burdened, both psychologically and socially functions, thus requiring treatment. Therefore, a systematic assessment of burden and needs is essential to identify clients with a high psychosocial burden and to allow for accurate decision making regarding indications for treatment. There is a great need for the development and validation of screening instruments in psychosocial counseling.

Methods

The receiver operating characteristic curve is a basic method to evaluate the discriminatory power of diagnostic tests. We computed sensitivity/specificity indices based on a sample of parents of pediatric cancer patients; the parents were screened with the S‐FIRST and completed another standardized instrument with reliable indicators.

Results

We found significant area under the curve (AUC) values from 0.671 to 0.882, meaning that the S‐FIRST screening instrument has small to medium discriminatory power.

Conclusion

Our results support the use of a screening instrument for case history analyses in psychosocial counseling to identify clients with a high psychosocial burden.
Identifying distinct trajectories of change in young breast cancer survivors' sexual functioning
Authors: von Hippel Christiana , Rosenberg Shoshana M. , Austin S. Bryn , Sprunck‐Harrild Kim , Ruddy Kathryn J. , Schapira Lidia , Come Steven , Borges Virginia F. , Partridge Ann H.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To identify and characterize distinct trajectories of change in young women's sexual functioning over the first 5 years following breast cancer diagnosis.

Methods

Group‐based trajectory modeling was applied to the sexual functioning of 896 women diagnosed with stage I‐IV breast cancer at age 40 or younger. The Cancer Rehabilitation Evaluation System was used to evaluate women's symptoms of sexual dysfunction annually for 5 years.

Results

Five distinct trajectories of sexual functioning were identified: one asymptomatic, one minimally symptomatic, two moderately symptomatic, and one severely symptomatic trajectory. Twelve percent of women were asymptomatic throughout follow‐up. The plurality of women experienced stable mild symptoms (42%). Among those with moderate symptoms, some experienced improvement over time (22%) while others experienced deterioration (13%); 11% experienced stable severe symptoms that did not remit over time. Independent predictors of experiencing a symptomatic rather than asymptomatic trajectory (P < 0.05, two‐sided) included diagnosis with stage 2 versus 1 disease, ER positive disease treated with oophorectomy or ovarian suppression, being partnered, having anxiety, poorer body image, and greater musculoskeletal pain.

Conclusions

We identified distinct trajectories that describe the reported sexual symptoms in this cohort of young breast cancer survivors. The majority of women reported various degrees of sexual dysfunction that remained stable over the study period. There is, however, potential for improvement of moderate and severe symptoms of sexual dysfunction in early survivorship.
Self‐Assembled Fluorescent and Antibacterial GHK‐Cu Nanoparticles for Wound Healing Applications
Authors: Sun Leming , Li Aipeng , Hu Yanzi , Li Yang , Shang Li , Zhang Lianbing
Published: February 2019

GHK‐Cu is demonstrated with the abilities to improve wound healing, accelerate anti‐inflammatory activity, and repair DNA damage. However, the instability of the GHK‐Cu in biological fluids is always a big challenge for its long‐term and efficient function at the target site. Therefore, the self‐assembled GHK‐Cu nanoparticles (GHK‐Cu NPs) are investigated in this work to solve the instability issue. The crystalline nanostructure within the GHK‐Cu nanoparticles offers them visible and near‐infrared fluorescent properties. With the excellent self‐assembly performance, the antibacterial properties of GHK‐Cu NPs are demonstrated using E. coli and S. aureus. The L929 dermal fibroblast cells are utilized to prove the good biocompatibility and enhanced wound healing applications of GHK‐Cu NPs. This study could pave the way for the design and elaboration of a new class of fluorescent peptides with various biological functions in biomedical applications.
The effects of nasal continuous positive airway pressure and high flow nasal cannula on heart rate variability in extremely preterm infants after extubation: A randomized crossover trial
Authors: Latremouille Samantha , Shalish Wissam , Kanbar Lara , Lamer Philippe , Rao Smita , Kearney Robert E. , Sant'Anna Guilherme M.
Published: February 2019

Background

NCPAP and High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) are common modes of non‐invasive respiratory support used after extubation. Heart rate variability (HRV) has been demonstrated as a marker of well‐being in neonates and differences in HRV were described in preterm infants receiving respiratory care. The objective was to investigate the effects of NCPAP and HFNC on HRV after extubation.

Methods

Randomized crossover trial in infants with birth weight (BW) ≤1250 g after undergoing their first elective extubation. ECG recordings were performed during 45 min while on HFNC and nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP). Time domain, non‐linear, and frequency domain parameters were calculated and compared during HFNC and NCPAP using paired nonparametric tests. A secondary analysis was performed in the subgroup of infants that were successfully extubated.

Results

Thirty infants with median [range] gestational age of 27 weeks [24.1‐29.3] and BW of 930 g [610‐1220] were studied at 5 days [1‐39] of age. No differences in HRV parameters were observed between HFNC and NCPAP. In the secondary analysis, infants successfully extubated (n = 27) had a significantly higher HRV during HFNC for some time domain parameters. For instance, the standard deviation of the RR intervals (SDRR) was more likely to be higher during HFNC compared to NCPAP (HFNC: 18/27 vs NCPAP: 9/27, P = 0.017) .

Conclusion

During the first hours after extubation, no differences in HRV were detected between HFNC and NCPAP in the overall cohort. However, a significantly higher HRV was noted during HFNC in the subgroup of infants successfully extubated.
A less conservative stability criterion for sampled‐data system via a fractional‐delayed state and its state‐space model
Authors: Park JunMin , Park PooGyeon
Published: February 2019

This paper introduces a state‐space model based on a fractional‐delayed state for a sampled‐data system described as a linear system under aperiodic sampling intervals. The new state‐space model exploits the information on the sampled‐data system and the fractional‐delayed state, which is defined on the sampling interval. The fractional‐delayed state and its state‐space model are utilized to construct the Lyapunov functional, which consists of the traditional Lyapunov function and a looped functional whose boundary conditions are zeros at sampling instants. Based on the Lyapunov functional, a stability criterion and a robust stability criterion are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed criterion.
Becoming a naturalist: Interest development across the learning ecology
Authors: Hecht Marijke , Knutson Karen , Crowley Kevin
Published: February 2019

Engagement with and study of nature is increasingly important for science literacy and civic engagement. Spurred on by challenges of the Anthropocene, many informal learning institutions are exploring how their collections, programs, and scientific expertise can be mobilized to create new naturalist learning pathways for children and youth. In this paper, we explore retrospective life histories of 18 adult naturalists to examine experiences that they recall supporting their interest development in the natural world. Drawing on interest and informal learning literature, our analysis reveals how elements across the learning ecology, including school, family, and out‐of‐school learning, work together to support the development of naturalist practices and identities. We found that interest development in nature occurred across the learning ecology and that expression of situational or individual interest depended on the participants’ age and the type of learning experience. A closer examination of three individual cases—a serious amateur naturalist, an environmental educator, and an ecologist—reveals some of the nuanced ways that interest in nature arises, is maintained, and can eventually develop into a deep, lifelong naturalist identity. We consider implications for how one might conceptualize and support informal learning pathways that involve deep engagement with and connections to nature.
Accurate Prediction of the Adsorption Capabilities of Synthetic Organic Contaminants by Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Muliadi Yeremia K. , Huang Shuheng , Zhang Duo , Shi Tingting , Chen Linxin , Mei Hu
Published: February 2019

In this work, quantitative structure‐property relationship (QSPR) was employed to predict the adsorption capabilities of 40 synthetic organic contaminants (SOCs) by single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Total of 1081 molecular descriptors that consist of 102 constitutional and physicochemical properties, 342 topological properties, and 637 three‐dimensional properties were used to characterize the chemical information of the 40 SOCs. After removing redundant variables by stepwise multiple regression (SMR), an optimal partial least squares (PLS) model was established by using only 3 decriptors, i. e., BEHv, Dm, and Mor30e. The determinant R2 of the training samples, Leave‐one‐out cross validation R2 (Q2), and R2pred of test samples were 0.775, 0.675, and 0.713, respectively. Y‐random permutation test showed that the optimal PLS model is not caused by chance. Based on the optimal PLS model, it can be inferred that topological, steric, and electronic properties are dominant factors affecting the adsorption capabilities of the SOCs by SWCNTs.