bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presence of pleomorphic features but not growth patterns improves prognostic stratification of epithelioid malignant pleural mesothelioma by 2‐tier nuclear grade
Authors: Zhang Yu Z , Brambilla Cecilia , Molyneaux Philip L , Rice Alexandra , Robertus Jan L , Jordan Simon , Lim Eric , Lang‐Lazdunski Loic , Begum Sofina , Dusmet Michael , Anikin Vladimir , Beddow Emma , Finch Jonathan , Asadi Nizar , Popat Sanjay , Quesne John L , Husain Aliya N , Cookson William O C M , Moffatt Miriam F , Nicholson Andrew G
Published: April 2020

Aims

Nuclear grade has been recently validated as a powerful prognostic tool in epithelioid malignant pleural mesothelioma (E‐MPM). In other studies histological parameters including pleomorphic features and growth patterns were also shown to exert prognostic impact. The primary aims of our study are (i) externally validate the prognostic role of pleomorphic features in E‐MPM and (ii) investigate if evaluating growth pattern in addition to 2‐tier nuclear grade improves prognostication.

Methods and results

614 consecutive cases of E‐MPM from our institution over a period of 15 years were retrospectively reviewed, of which 51 showed pleomorphic features. E‐MPM with pleomorphic features showed significantly worse overall survival compared to those without (5.4 versus 14.7 months). Tumours with predominantly micropapillary pattern showed the worst survival (6.2 months) followed by solid (10.5 months), microcystic (15.3 months), discohesive (16.1 months), trabecular (17.6 months) and tubulo‐papillary (18.6 months). Sub‐classification of growth patterns into high grade (solid, micropapillary) and low grade (all others) led to good separation of overall survival (10.5 versus 18.0 months) but did not predict survival independent of 2‐tier nuclear grade. A composite score comprised of growth pattern and 2‐tier nuclear grade did not improve prognostication compared with nuclear grade alone. Intra‐tumoural heterogeneity in growth patterns is ubiquitous.

Conclusions

Our findings support the incorporation of E‐MPM with pleomorphic features in the epithelioid subtype as a highly aggressive variant distinct from 2‐tier nuclear grade. E‐MPM demonstrates extensive heterogeneity in growth pattern but its evaluation does not offer additional prognostic utility to 2‐tier nuclear grade.
Thermal shock and sulfuric acid corrosion behavior of enamel–nano‐Ni composite/enamel–nano‐nickel composite coating
Authors: Chen Ken , Chen Minghui , Yi Aihua , Li Kang , Zhu Wen , Liao Zhongmiao , Zhu Shenglong , Wang Fuhui
Published: April 2020

Dense and well‐adherent enamel–nano‐Ni composite/enamel–nano‐nickel composite coatings were prepared on 304 steel. Their thermal shock (TS) resistance at 400°C as well as the chemical stability in sulfuric acid solution were investigated, and compared with pure enamel coatings. Results indicated that the nanocomposite coatings with 5 wt% of Ni particles exhibited the best resistance to TS. Almost no spalling of the coating occurs after 50 cycles of TS at 400°C. They also provided enough protective effect to the substrates from sulfuric acid corrosion. After 7 days of corrosion, the weight loss of Ni‐5 enamel coating was only 1.107 mg/cm2.
Association of Propionibacterium acnes with the efficacy of minocycline therapy for cutaneous sarcoidosis
Authors: Inoue Yumiko , Teraki Yuichi
Published: April 2020

Background

Although tetracycline has been used to treat cutaneous sarcoidosis, the mechanism of action for this treatment remains unclear. This study evaluated the efficacy of minocycline treatment on cutaneous sarcoidosis and the relationship between its efficacy and the presence of Propionibacterium acnes in skin sarcoid lesions.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed results in 13 patients with cutaneous sarcoidosis treated with minocycline at Saitama Medical Center between 2010 and 2017. To demonstrate the presence of P. acnes in the skin lesions, skin biopsy specimens from 11 of the 13 patients were evaluated with immunohistochemistry using a specific monoclonal antibody against P. acnes (PAB antibody).

Results

Of the 13 patients treated with minocycline, six patients (46%) achieved a complete response (CR) and seven (54%) had a partial response (PR). The skin lesions regressed in 1.5–5 months (average, 3.2 months) after treatment with minocycline. No relapse had occurred during the minocycline therapy. Elevated serum angiotensin‐converting enzyme levels were observed in five of the patients, and the levels reduced after treatment with minocycline. P. acnes, identified as round bodies that reacted with PAB antibody, were observed in the skin sarcoid granulomas in all patients tested. The number of PAB‐positive round bodies was significantly higher in the skin lesions of patients who had CR than in those who had PR.

Conclusions

These results suggest the effectiveness of minocycline for the treatment of cutaneous sarcoidosis and an association of P. acnes with the efficacy of minocycline therapy for cutaneous sarcoidosis.
Wheat bran dietary fibre‐induced changes in gluten aggregation and conformation in a dough system
Authors: Ma Sen , Liu Ning , Wang Zhen , Wang Xiaoxi
Published: April 2020

This study was conducted to determine the effect of wheat bran dietary fibre (WBDF) on aggregation and conformational changes of gluten in fermented and unfermented dough systems. The results revealed that WBDF has an advantage in maintaining the content of glutenin macropolymer (GMP) in the fermentation process. The analysis of the molecular weight distribution showed decreased content of larger polymeric proteins (LPPs). At the same WBDF level, after fermentation, the content of larger polymeric proteins (SPPs) increased, likely due to the polymerisation of the gliadins. Additionally, fluorescence spectroscopy and surface hydrophobicity analysis revealed that, in fermented dough, with the increase of WBDF content, the protein hydrophobicity significantly increased from 6.56 to 9.43 (P < 0.05). Hydrophobic interactions contributed to the macromolecular unfolding and/or aggregation of gluten. Also, WBDF may induce changes in dough properties by inducing conformational changes in the gluten protein.
A review on the physicochemical properties and potential food applications of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) starch
Authors: Oyeyinka Samson A. , Kayitesi Eugénie , Adebo Oluwafemi A. , Oyedeji Ajibola B. , Ogundele Opeolu M. , Obilana Anthony O. , Njobeh Patrick B.
Published: April 2020

Cowpea is a food legume with high protein and carbohydrate contents, which could be explored in addressing food and nutritional challenges in many parts of the world. However, some cowpea varieties are difficult to cook, resulting in high energy requirements and greater loss of nutrients. Since the bulk of carbohydrate in cowpea is starch, this component may be explored as an alternative starch source for various industrial applications, especially because cowpea starch is rich in resistant starch with several beneficial physiological effects. Hence, this review summarises the present knowledge on the isolation, composition, physicochemical properties and modification methods of cowpea starch. Future studies that are required to produce cowpea starch with novel properties were highlighted and the need to apply modified cowpea starch in food systems were also noted.
Association of CD33 rs3865444:C˃A polymorphism with a reduced risk of late‐onset Alzheimer's disease in Slovaks is limited to subjects carrying the APOE ε4 allele
Authors: Javor Juraj , Ďurmanová Vladimíra , Párnická Zuzana , Minárik Gabriel , Králová Mária , Pečeňák Ján , Vašečková Barbora , Režnáková Veronika , Šutovský Stanislav , Gmitterová Karin , Hromádka Tomáš , Peterajová Ľubica , Shawkatová Ivana
Published: April 2020

CD33 rs3865444:C>A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) has been previously associated with the risk of late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD); however, the results have been inconsistent across different populations. CD33 is a transmembrane receptor that plays an important role in AD pathogenesis by inhibiting amyloid β42 uptake by microglial cells. In this study, we aimed to validate the association between rs3865444 and LOAD risk in the Slovak population and to evaluate whether it was affected by the carrier status of the major LOAD risk allele apolipoprotein (APOE) ε4. CD33 rs3865444 and APOE variants were genotyped in 206 LOAD patients and 487 control subjects using the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism method and direct sequencing, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association of rs3865444 A allele with a reduced LOAD risk that was only present in APOE ε4 allele carriers (AA + CA versus CC: p = .0085; OR = 0.45; 95% CI = 0.25‒0.82). On the other hand, no such association was found in subjects without the APOE ε4 (p = .75; OR = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.61‒1.42). Moreover, regression analysis detected a significant interaction between CD33 rs3865444 A and APOE ε4 alleles (p = .021 for APOE ε4 allele dosage and p = .051 for APOE ε4 carriage status), with synergy factor (SF) value of 0.49 indicating an antagonistic effect between the two alleles in LOAD risk. In conclusion, our results suggest that CD33 rs3865444:C˃A substitution may reduce the risk of LOAD in Slovaks by antagonizing the effect conferred by the major susceptibility allele APOE ε4.
The role of supervisor and peer support in training transfer in institutions of higher education
Authors: Yaghi Abdulfattah , Bates Reid
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study focuses on leadership transfer by academic managers in public universities. Motivation to transfer is expected to mediate the relationship between peer and supervisor support (independent variables) and the transfer of training (dependent variable).

Methodology

The study sample comprises 263 academic managers who completed leadership training programs in public universities. Structural equation modeling is used to test the study model for four hypotheses.

Findings

In line with previous findings from different contexts, the study shows that (a) the motivation of academic managers to transfer training mediates between the actual transfer and the two types of organizational support, from peers and supervisors; (b) peer support has a stronger impact than supervisor support on motivation to transfer; (c) training transfer in public universities has a pattern similar to that in other organizations; and (d) the country context does not seem to affect the dynamics of training transfer.

Implications

To remain competitive with successful policies, universities need to foster learning environments by effectively engaging those responsible for managing university policies. Applying new leadership knowledge, skills and abilities is a sophisticated process in which academic managers are not the only stakeholders. Given the nature of the organizational phenomenon, work environments are similar across countries and sectors; therefore, emphasizing the role of national cultural norms and values over the objective needs of the workplace seems problematic.

Limitations

Structural equation modeling may not capture all psychological and personal aspects of transfer; therefore, triangulation methods can be useful. The competition in higher education is increasing,and it is recommended that leadership training transfer in public and private universities should be compared.
Neutrophils play an ongoing role in preventing bacterial pneumonia by blocking the dissemination of Staphylococcus aureus from the upper to the lower airways
Authors: Ge Chenghao , Monk Ian R , Monard Sarah C , Bedford James G , Braverman Jessica , Stinear Timothy P , Wakim Linda M
Published: April 2020

Staphylococcus aureus is found in the nasal cavity of up to 30% of the human population. Persistent nasal carriage of S. aureus is a risk factor for influenza virus‐induced secondary bacterial pneumonia. There is limited understanding of the factors that cause S. aureus to shift from the upper to the lower respiratory tract and convert from a commensal organism to an invasive pathogen. Here we show that neutrophils actively prevent S. aureus dissemination. Establishment of a mouse model of localized S. aureus nasal carriage revealed variations in the longevity of persistence of S. aureus isolates. Improved persistence within this site was associated with reduced nasal inflammation, less neutrophil egress into the airways and reduced neutrophil–bacteria association. Neutrophil depletion of mice with localized S. aureus nasal carriage triggered the development of an invasive S. aureus infection. Moreover, utilizing a model of influenza‐induced staphylococcal pneumonia we showed that treatment with granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor, a potent enhancer of neutrophil number and function, significantly reduced bacterial loads in the lung and improved disease outcomes. These data reveal that neutrophils play an important and active role in confining S. aureus to the upper respiratory tract and highlight the use of approaches that improve neutrophil function as effective strategies to attenuate morbidity associated with staphylococcal pneumonia.
Home‐based toothbrushing interventions for parents of young children to reduce dental caries: A systematic review
Authors: Aliakbari Elnaz , Gray‐Burrows Kara A. , Vinall‐Collier Karen A. , Edwebi Sakina , Marshman Zoe , McEachan Rosemary R. C. , Day Peter F.
Published: April 2020

Background

Dental caries is the most prevalent preventable condition in children. A key preventive home‐based oral health behaviour is the adoption and maintenance of parental supervised toothbrushing until 8 years of age.

Aim

To examine interventions promoting parental supervised toothbrushing practices to reduce dental caries in young children (<8 years old).

Design

Interventions promoting parental involvement in home‐based toothbrushing in children under 8 years old and their impact on caries were subjected to review. Electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library), references, and unpublished literature databases were searched for relevant literature.

Results

Of the 10 176 articles retrieved, forty‐two articles were included. The Theoretical Domains Framework was used to code intervention content, with the main domains addressed being knowledge (41/42), skills (35/42), and environmental context and resources (22/42). Sufficient descriptions of the intervention development, delivery, and evaluation were lacking, with only 18 studies being underpinned by theory. Twenty‐nine studies explored the impact on caries yielding mixed results.

Conclusions

There are few interventions targeting home‐based oral health behaviours underpinned by theory and methodological rigour in their development and evaluation. This demonstrates a clear need for future interventions to be guided by complex intervention methodology.
Generalist plants are more competitive and more functionally similar to each other than specialist plants: insights from network analyses
Authors: Denelle Pierre , Violle Cyrille ,   DivGrass Consortium, Munoz François
Published: April 2020

Aim

Ecological specialization is defined by the variety of environments species occupy. Identifying the mechanisms that influence specialization is critical to understand patterns of species coexistence and biodiversity. However, the functional attributes that result in specialization are still unknown. Similarly, there is contrasting evidence between the degree of specialization and the local abundance of species. We investigated whether specialist and generalist plant species (a) are associated with distinct functional profiles, using core plant functional traits and strategies, (b) show similar functional variation and (c) perform at the local scale.

Location

France.

Taxon

Herbaceous plants.

Methods

We analysed the structure of a bipartite network that includes the occurrences of ~2,900 plant species at ~90,000 sites to identify ecologically consistent sets of species and sites (i.e. ‘modules’). This innovative approach then enabled us to define a metric of specialization, by quantifying occurrences of species at sites that belong to one or several modules. We used functional traits related to resource acquisition, competition for light and dispersal ability, as well as indices of competitive, stress tolerance and ruderal strategies.

Results

We identified five major modules in the bipartite network related to different environments and composed of species with differing functional attributes. Specialist species were less competitive and shorter, and had higher stress tolerance and stronger resource conservation, while generalist species were taller. Generalists were also more similar to each other than specialists. In addition, specialists had higher local abundances and occurred in communities with plants of similar height.

Main conclusions

We found distinctive functional signatures of specialist and generalist species in grassland communities across diverse environments at regional and community scales. By testing classic macro‐ecological hypotheses, network metrics can benefit community ecology by identifying distinct ecological units at a large scale and quantifying the links developed by species.
Shifting ecosystem connectivity during the Pleistocene drove diversification and gene‐flow in a species complex of Neotropical birds (Tityridae: Pachyramphus)
Authors: Musher Lukas J. , Galante Peter J. , Thom Gregory , Huntley Jerry W. , Blair Mary E.
Published: April 2020

Aim

We aim to test the biogeographic drivers of diversification and gene‐flow at the Isthmus of Panama using a species complex of suboscine birds as a case study. We specifically evaluate whether diversification in these birds is better explained by continuous parapatry or a Refuge Model of periodic isolation and gene‐flow due glacial cycling.

Location

The Isthmus of Panama (Neotropics).

Taxon

Pachyramphus aglaiae and Pachyramphus homochrous (Aves: Tityridae).

Methods

We develop an approach to distinguish among the two biogeographic hypotheses—parapatric ecological speciation versus climatically mediated speciation—by making explicit predictions for demographic history, niche evolution and change in geographic connectivity over time. We sequenced genome‐wide markers (ultraconserved elements) to estimate the evolutionary and demographic history of this group. We applied both phylogenomic network analyses and demographic modelling using a supervised machine learning approach. These genetic analyses were combined with a novel distribution modelling method that estimates the probability of interspecies contact as a function of climatic conditions through time.

Results

We found that both spatial and genetic analyses revealed concordant results. All speciation events occurred during the Pleistocene and were characterized by non‐continuous gene‐flow, supporting a scenario of climate‐mediated diversification. Spatial connectivity was highest at present, consistent with our best demographic model of secondary contact.

Main conclusions

This study exemplifies a mechanism by which speciation, dispersal and introgression unfold in an important region for Neotropical diversification—the Isthmus of Panama—where periods of both isolation and introgression probably drive diversification. Overall, our results are consistent with the Refuge Model of biotic diversification, but suggest that introgression may be a crucial yet underappreciated component of this classic paradigm.
Electrogram morphology discriminators in implantable cardioverter defibrillators: A comparative evaluation
Authors: Frontera Antonio , Strik Marc , Eschalier Romain , Biffi Mauro , Pereira Bruno , Welte Nicolas , Chauvel Remi , Mondoly Pierre , Laborderie Julien , Bernis Jean‐Paul , Clementy Nicolas , Reuter Sylvain , Garrigue Stéphane , Deplagne Antoine , Vernooy Kevin , Pillois Xavier , Haïssaguerre Michel , Dubois Remi , Ritter Philippe , Bordachar Pierre , Ploux Sylvain
Published: April 2020

Background

Morphology algorithms are currently recommended as a standalone discriminator in single‐chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs). However, these proprietary algorithms differ in both design and nominal programming.

Objective

To compare three different algorithms with nominal versus advanced programming in their ability to discriminate between ventricular (VT) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).

Methods

In nine European centers, VT and SVTs were collected from Abbott, Boston Scientific, and Medtronic dual‐ and triple‐chamber ICDs via their respective remote monitoring portals. Percentage morphology matches were recorded for selected episodes which were classified as VT or SVT by means of atrioventricular comparison. The sensitivity and related specificity of each manufacturer discriminator was determined at various values of template match percentage from receiving operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

A total of 534 episodes were retained for the analysis. In ROC analyses, Abbott Far Field MD (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.91; P < .001) and Boston Scientific RhythmID (AUC: 0.95; P < .001) show higher AUC than Medtronic Wavelet (AUC: 0.81; P < .001) when tested for their ability to discriminate VT from SVT. At nominal % match threshold all devices provided high sensitivity in VT identification, (91%, 100%, and 90%, respectively, for Abbott, Boston Scientific, and Medtronic) but contrasted specificities in SVT discrimination (85%, 41%, and 62%, respectively). Abbott and Medtronic's nominal thresholds were similar to the optimal thresholds. Optimization of the % match threshold improved the Boston Scientific specificity to 79% without compromising the sensitivity.

Conclusion

Proprietary morphology discriminators show important differences in their ability to discriminate SVT. How much this impact the overall discrimination process remains to be investigated.
Circular RNA in renal diseases
Authors: Jin Juan , Sun Haolu , Shi Chao , Yang Hui , Wu Yiwan , Li Wanhai , Dong Yu‐hang , Cai Liang , Meng Xiao‐ming
Published: April 2020

Circular RNA (circRNA) is a newly described type of non‐coding RNA. Active research is greatly enriching the current understanding of the expression and role of circRNA, and a large amount of evidence has implicated circRNA in the pathogenesis of certain renal diseases, such as renal cell carcinoma, acute kidney injury, diabetic nephropathy and lupus nephritis. Studies have found evidence that circRNAs regulate programmed cell death, invasion, and metastasis and serve as biomarkers in renal diseases. Recently, circRNAs were identified in exosomes secreted by the kidneys. Nevertheless, the function of circRNA in renal diseases remains ambiguous. Given that circRNAs are regulators of gene expression, they may be involved in the pathology of multiple renal diseases. Additionally, emerging evidence is showing that circulating circRNAs may serve as novel biomarkers for renal disease. In this review, we have summarized the identification, biogenesis, degradation, and functions of circRNA and have evaluated the roles of circRNA in renal diseases.
Embryonic substances induce alarm response in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Cao Xiaolong , Li Weiming
Published: April 2020

Many aquatic animals rely on chemicals released by injured individuals of the same species to assess predation risk. Among these chemical cues, alarm substances released from the injured skin of ostariophysan fishes have been extensively examined. In most fish species examined, these cues appear to be released by all injured individuals (including larvae, juveniles and adults) and elicit alarm responses in conspecifics. Adult alarm cues also affect development and physiology of embryos. Nonetheless, whether embryos produce alarm cues that affect adults is not known. This study reports that extracts of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos at 36 h post‐fertilization or later induce antipredator behaviours reminiscent of those induced by skin alarm substances. At an equivalent of 10−6 g embryo per millilitre, the extract induced bottom‐dwelling and freezing in adults. These behaviours are consistent with those induced by adult alarm substances. This study concludes that zebrafish embryos produce alarm substances.
Divergence in aerobic scope and thermal tolerance is related to local thermal regime in two populations of introduced Nile perch (Lates niloticus)
Authors: Nyboer Elizabeth A. , Chrétien Emmanuelle , Chapman Lauren J.
Published: April 2020

We tested whether thermal tolerance and aerobic performance differed between two populations of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) originating from the same source population six decades after their introduction into two lakes in the Lake Victoria basin in East Africa. We used short‐term acclimation of juvenile fish to a range of temperatures from ambient to +6°C, and performed critical thermal maximum (CTmax) and respirometry tests to measure upper thermal tolerance, resting and maximum metabolic rates, and aerobic scope (AS). Across acclimation temperatures, Nile perch from the cooler lake (Lake Nabugabo, Uganda) tended to have lower thermal tolerance (i.e., CTmax) and lower aerobic performance (i.e., AS) than Nile perch from the warmer waters of Lake Victoria (Bugonga region, Uganda). Effects of temperature acclimation were more pronounced in the Lake Victoria population, with the Lake Nabugabo fish showing less thermal plasticity in most metabolic traits. Our results suggest phenotypic divergence in thermal tolerance between these two introduced populations in a direction consistent with an adaptive response to local thermal regimes.
The distribution of the recessus orbitalis across flatfishes (order: Pleuronectiformes)
Authors: Campbell Matthew A. , Tongboonkua Pakorn , Chanet Bruno , Chen Wei‐Jen
Published: April 2020

The recessus orbitalis is an accessory organ of flatfishes functioning in the protrusion of the eyes. This character, along with cranial asymmetry and a forward insertion of the dorsal fin, have been considered synapomorphies for the Pleuronectiformes. New dissections and examination of images taken in the wild show that the recessus orbitalis is present in all representatives of Pleuronectoidei examined but is absent in the single species of Psettoidei dissected. Psettoidei, the most primitive pleuronectiform lineage, contains three recognized species; thus, the absence of the recessus orbitalis in this whole lineage is unclear without further dissections. Ancestral character estimation at the family level for the recessus orbitalis indicates that the recessus orbitalis was likely absent in the common ancestor of Pleuronectiformes but was most likely present in the common ancestor of the Pleuronectoidei. Given that so few species of flatfishes have been assessed for the recessus orbitalis to date, additional characterization of the distribution of the recessus orbitalis across flatfishes will further inform what states this character may have and if it is a synapomorphy of Pleuronectiformes or simply a derived character state of Pleuronectoidei.
The influence of environmental instability on the reproductive strategy of the critically endangered Acıgöl killifish (Aphanius transgrediens)
Authors: Yoğurtçuoğlu Baran , Uyan Umut , Ekmekçi F. Güler
Published: April 2020

To investigate the variability in the reproductive tactics of Acıgöl killifish (Aphanius transgrediens), one of the most seriously threatened freshwater teleost species, this study compared its reproductive ecology in two contrasting habitats that differ substantially in terms of stability of environmental parameters, particularly salinity regime (stable vs. unstable). Fish were sampled monthly from October 2013 to September 2014 with the aim of testing whether the reproductive life‐history response of fish to stable and unstable conditions differed. The reproductive effort (gonad weight) of both sexes did not differ significantly between the two habitats, but females in the unstable habitat had significantly lower fecundity and larger eggs. The relationship between fecundity and fish size was stronger in the stable habitat, whereas the relationship was quite variable and uncertain in the unstable habitat. Fish born in the unstable habitat reached their first maturity at a smaller size than those in the stable habitat. The gonado‐somatic index and the duration of hydrated eggs showed that reproduction continued from February to May in both habitats; nonetheless, a second spawning event occurred during July and August in the unstable habitat, which included the reproductive contributions of YOY individuals and older generations. This study’s results suggest that A. transgrediens employs varying reproductive strategies against environmental instability in its restricted unique range. This may have further implications for the ways in which habitat‐specific conservation methods are used.
POSTCRISIS M&As AND THE IMPACT OF FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS
Authors: Cleary Sean , Hossain Ashrafee
Published: April 2020

We find that mergers and acquisitions (M&As) occurring after the 2007–2009 financial crisis were significantly more value enhancing than precrisis M&As, in both the short and long term. This superior postcrisis performance can be attributed to an increase in external financing constraints following the crisis that caused a decline in general financing availability. This decline restricted the universe of potential acquiring firms to those that were less financially constrained, whereas the typical postcrisis target firm was more financially constrained. As a result, postcrisis acquirers were able to obtain targets at more attractive prices relative to their intrinsic value during the precrisis period when external financing was much less constrained. We also find that the typical postcrisis acquirer had greater long‐term focus than their precrisis counterparts and used their financial strength to capitalize on strategic opportunities.
Nondestructive detection for egg freshness grade based on hyperspectral imaging technology
Authors: Yao Kunshan , Sun Jun , Zhou Xin , Nirere Adria , Tian Yan , Wu Xiaohong
Published: April 2020

In order to identify the freshness grade of eggs nondestructively and rapidly, hyperspectral imaging technology was used in this article. The hyperspectral data of 200 samples of three freshness grades was acquired by using hyperspectral image acquisition system (400.68–1,001.612 nm), and then the freshness grade of egg samples was measured by stoichiometry. First, Mahalanobis distance algorithm was used to remove abnormal sample data. Second, savitzky–golay and wavelet threshold denoising combined with standard normalized variable were used to pretreat the spectral data, respectively. Third, iteratively retains informative variables (IRIV), variable iterative space shrinkage approach, and competitive adaptive reweighted sampling were used for feature wavelength selection. Since the classification accuracy of support vector machine (SVM) model was affected by the selection of parameters, genetic algorithm (GA) was introduced to search the optimal parameters in SVM and compared with grid search algorithm. Finally, the result indicated that the classification accuracy of training set and test set of the optimal classification model (IRIV‐GA‐SVM) reached 99.29% and 97.87%, respectively. Thus, it is feasible to use hyperspectral image technology to detect egg freshness grade.

Practical Applications

The freshness grade is one of the most important indexes to measure the quality of eggs. Traditional methods of detecting egg freshness grade are time‐consuming and destructive, which cannot meet the test needs of modern agriculture. Hyperspectral imaging, an emerging technology, can provide both spectral and spatial information simultaneously, and has the advantages of nondestructive, fast and nonpollution. The result indicated that hyperspectral imaging technology for the detection of freshness grade of eggs is feasible.
Centrifugal separation‐assisted and extraction of crude palm oil from separated mesocarp fiber: Central composite design optimization
Authors: Wondi Mohd Hafizz , Shamsudin Rosnah , Yunus Robiah , Alsultan G. Abdulkareem , Iswardi Aditya Hutama
Published: April 2020

In the current research, a centrifugal separator was developed for oil palm fruitlets to separate the mesocarp fibers from the nuts prior to oil extraction, which usually involves grinding the whole palm fruitlets to get the oil. This new technique can increase the yield of crude palm oil derived from the mesocarp without the presence of kernel oil from the nuts. This work focused on the effect of rotational speed and separation time on the mesocarp/nut recovery, oil yield, and broken nut percentage. It was found that the increase of rotational speed and milling time increased the mesocarp recovery without damaging the kernels. The oil extracted from the mesocarp was analyzed, and the results show that the oil properties such as free fatty acid, deterioration of bleachability index, and carotene were better than the properties of the palm oil extracted using the conventional method. From the optimization study, the maximum mesocarp recovery (60.84%) and palm oil extracted (46.02%) were obtained at 943 rpm of rotational speed and 20 s of milling time. The centrifugal technique allowed the separation of mesocarp from the nuts for a better palm oil extraction.

Practical applications

Centrifugal separation is viable technique for mesocarp fiber and nuts separation process. This proposed technique has been proven in obtaining high oil yield with lower broken kernel. The crude palm oil extracted through the separation process also meets the standard industrial requirements.
QR 678 & QR678 Neo Vs PRP—A randomised, comparative, prospective study
Authors: Kapoor Rinky , Shome Debraj , Vadera Sapna , Ram M. Shiva
Published: April 2020

Background

Hair plays a significant role in shaping the appearance of an individual. Loss of hair can lead to serious effects on social esteem of an individual. The most common cause of hair loss is Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA).This hereditary disorder followed a specific pattern causing progressive thinning of hair in both Men and Women.

Aims

The aim of the current study is to compare and evaluate the efficacy of QR678 therapy versus PRP in the treatment of Male Androgenetic Alopecia. Since QR678 and QR678 Neo have been found to be formulations equivalent in efficacy, the results would be the same with either formulation.

Methods

A prospective, comparative, single‐blind study was carried out with 2 groups of 25 patients each. Intradermal injections of QR678 formulations and PRP were injected in group A and B respectively. Hair pull test, Video microscopic assessment, Global Photographic assessment was done and patient’s subjective assessment was done through questionnaire at the end of the study. Results were evaluated after 6 months and follow up was done till 1 year.

Results

100% reduction in hair fall was noted at the end of 6 months in the QR678 group which was maintained for 1 year. Video microscopic evaluation showed that the hair density, terminal hair density, vellus hair density and shaft diameter were significantly better in QR678 group (P< .005) than the PRP group. Since QR678 and QR678 Neo formulatons are equivalent in efficacy, the results of tthis trial can be attributed to be the same, irrespective of the formulation used.

Conclusion

The bioengineered formulation of QR678 proved to be more beneficial for Male Androgenetic Alopecia (Male pattern hair loss) compared to PRP. A comparative study between QR678 and PRP with long term follow‐up will widen our spectra of knowledge.
High levels of Helicobacter pylori antigens and antibodies in patients with severe acne vulgaris
Authors: Saleh Ramadan , Sedky Mahmoud Ahmed , Moustafa Dina Ali , Abu El‐Hamd Mohammed
Published: April 2020

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) may play a role in the pathogenesis of extra‐intestinal disorders including dermatological diseases.

Aims

This study aimed to assess the levels of H pylori antigen and antibody in patients with acne vulgaris (AV).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study compared the levels of fecal H pylori antigen and serum H pylori antibody in 100 patients with AV and 100 age and sex‐matched healthy volunteers. Patients with AV were classified into mild, moderate, and severe according to the Global Acne Grading Scale. Levels of fecal H pylori antigen and serum H pylori antibodies were assessed using commercially available enzyme‐linked immune‐sorbent assay.

Results

The patients with severe AV had significantly higher levels of fecal H pylori antigen as compared to the patients with mild AV, moderate AV, and healthy controls (P < .001). The patients with severe AV had significantly higher serum H pylori antibody as compared to the patients with mild AV, moderate AV, and healthy controls (P = .001). The levels of fecal H pylori antigen and serum H pylori antibody in the patients with mild AV were not significantly different from those in the patients with moderate AV (P = .49 and P = .05, respectively).

Conclusion

The patients with severe AV had higher levels of fecal H pylori antigen and serum H pylori antibody as compared to the patients with mild and moderate AV and with healthy controls. The indicators of H pylori infection were positively correlated with the severity and duration of AV.
Evaluation of oxidative stress and psychoemotional status in premature hair graying
Authors: Acer Ersoy , Kaya Erdoğan Hilal , Kocatürk Evin , Saracoğlu Zeynep Nurhan , Alataş Özkan , Bilgin Muzaffer
Published: April 2020

Background

Hair graying is a natural process in aging and is not usually associated with a medical problem. It sometimes may occur at early age and is called premature hair graying (PHG). Pathogenesis of PHG is not clear but it was associated with various systemic diseases such as coronary artery diseases, osteopenia, and hypothyroidism.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the oxidative stress and psychoemotional status in individuals with PHG.

Methods

Sixty participants with PHG and 60 healthy volunteers aged between 18 and 20 years were included in the study. Total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS) levels measured in serum, and oxidative stress index (OSI) were calculated. Participants were asked to complete Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Beck Anxiety Index (BAI).

Results

Total oxidant status, OSI, and PSS scores were significantly higher in the PHG group (P < .001). There was no significant difference between severity of PHG and TAS, TOS, and OSI (P > .05). There was a significant relationship between BAI scores and TOS and OSI in PHG group (P = .03,P = .049, respectively).

Conclusion

Oxidative and emotional stress may play a role in pathogenesis of PHG. Our study showed that serum oxidative stress and emotional stress were high in PHG. In other words, there was high systemic oxidative stress in PHG.
Long‐term effectiveness of a hyaluronic acid soft tissue filler in patients with facial lipoatrophy, morphological asymmetry, or debilitating scars
Authors: Grablowitz Doris , Ivezic‐Schoenfeld Zrinka , Federspiel Ira G. , Gehl Benjamin , Kopera Daisy , Prinz Martin
Published: April 2020

Background

Soft tissue fillers are typically used for rejuvenating an aging face; they are also employed in the treatment of certain pathologic conditions, including facial lipoatrophy, morphological asymmetry, and debilitating scars.

Aims

The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Princess® Volume (PV) in patients with facial lipoatrophy (FLA), morphological asymmetry (MA), or debilitating scars (DS).

Patients/Methods

This prospective, noncomparative, multicenter clinical study consisted of five visits spread across 36 weeks. Up to 60 adult patients suffering from moderate facial lipoatrophy, facial morphological asymmetry, or debilitating scars on the face were to be included. All patients were treated with an HA filler (PV).

Results

At Week 4, the treatment success rate in the SP was 98% (95% CI [90.4%, 100%]), as assessed by both the investigators and the patients. According to the independent reviewer, the success rate was 93% (95% CI [82.7%, 98.0%]). At Week 24, the effect was maintained in most patients, with success rates of 80% as evaluated by the investigator and 79% by the patient (95% CI [67.6%, 89.8%] and [65.6%, 88.4%], respectively). At Week 36, success rates dropped to 61% as assessed by the investigator and 59% by the patient (95% CI [46.8%, 73.5%] and [45.0%, 71.9%], respectively).

Conclusions

The clinical study has proven that Princess® Volume is a safe and effective therapeutic solution for the correction of soft tissue defects in FLA and facial MA, but limited success rate to DS.
Efficacy of olive leaf extract–containing cream for facial rejuvenation: A pilot study
Authors: Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima , Ng Janice Natasha C. , Junsuwan Natchaya , Phaitoonwattanakij Sutasinee , Phothong Weeranut , Eimpunth Sasima , Manuskiatti Woraphong
Published: April 2020

Background

Olive leaf extract (OLE), a naturally extracted product from olive leaves, contains oleuropein and other bioactive phenolic compounds. Oleuropein was identified to have various medical properties. It was also found to inhibit the effects of both acute and chronic UVB‐induced skin damage as well as accelerate wound healing activity.

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy of olive leaf extract–containing cream on facial rejuvenation.

Methods

This is a prospective pilot study with a total of 36 participants, who presented with photoaging skin. All participants applied the olive leaf extract–containing cream (SUPERHEAL™ O‐Live Cream, PhytoCeuticals, Inc, USA) to their whole face twice daily for 2 months. Primary outcomes measured in the study were the changes in the biophysical properties of the skin assessed with the following parameters: melanin and erythema index, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, skin pH, sebum level, texture, and wrinkles.

Results

After 2 months, TEWL decreased significantly (P = .007) and maintained the results 1 month after discontinuation of the treatment (P = .007). Skin hydration also increased significantly after 2 months (P = .004). Wrinkles improved significantly on all follow‐ups (P < .001, P = .001, P = .001, respectively). An image of the skin captured using Visioscan® showed improvement of the skin texture 2 months after treatment. Majority of the participants (64%) noted improvement in their skin texture.

Conclusion

Olive leaf extract–containing cream provided benefits on skin rejuvenation in human skin.
Functional oral health‐related quality of life impact: A systematic review in populations with tooth loss
Authors: Schierz Oliver , Baba Kazuyoshi , Fueki Kenji
Published: April 2020

Patients perceive the impact of oral disorder in four major areas, the dimensions of oral health‐related quality life (OHRQoL) Oral Function, Orofacial Pain, Orofacial Appearance, and Psychosocial Impact. The functional aspect is essential given the need of chewing, biting, speech and swallowing. The objective of this study was to identify OHRQoL information for dental subjects with functional oral health problems. In a systematic review, distinct and clinically relevant groups of dental subject samples, in this study called “population groups,” with such functional OHRQoL information based on the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) were identified (PROSPERO registration: CRD42017064033). The search strategy was “Oral Health Impact Profile” or OHIP. Searches were conducted in the PubMed interface of the Medline database, EMBASE, Cochrane, CINAHL and PsyINFO on 8 June 2017 and updated on 14 January 2019. Published OHIP domain data of different versions were recalculated into OHIP‐14`s Physical Disability domain score, characterising the subject's Oral Function impact. 3,653 potentially abstracts were screened. We identified 78 publications reporting dimensional information on 154 subject samples with 52 populations. A typical mean functional impact for partially dentate subjects was 1.6 units on a 0 to 8 unit metric, while for edentate subjects, the mean functional impact was 2.6 units. The functional impact score ranged from 0 to 7.9 units with 50% of the patient samples located between 0.8 and 2.6 units. For the first time, we provide normalised and therefore comparable metric information about the functional OHRQoL impact for a substantial number of functional oral conditions.
Evaluation of Marginal and Internal Fit of Presintered Co‐Cr and Zirconia Three‐Unit Fixed Dental Prosthesis Compared to Cast Co‐Cr
Authors: Daou Elie E. , Baba Nadim Z.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The precision of soft metal processing technologies is poorly documented. This study compared marginal and internal fit of presintered cobalt‐chromium (Co‐Cr) and zirconia three‐unit fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) to cast Co‐Cr.

Materials and Methods

Three‐unit FDPs were prepared on metal dies (N = 60) from typodont preparations of the maxillary right first premolar and molar. A standardized preparation of a metal‐ceramic restoration was done on abutment teeth. The dies (N = 60) were scanned and divided into three groups (n = 20/group) to receive the FDP made of presintered Co‐Cr (Ceramill Si), presintered zirconia (Ceramill Zi), and cast Co‐Cr (Girobond NB). Each framework was seated on its specific cast. A replica technique was used for marginal and internal discrepancies measurements in mesiodistal and buccolingual planes. Data were analyzed using the Levene test, t‐test, and analysis of variance (α = 0.05).

Results

When the overall mean discrepancy values were compared in the mesiodistal plane, a significant difference was found between Ceramill Sintron and Ceramill Zi groups (p = 0.026). No significant difference was detected between Girobond NB and Ceramill Sintron groups and between Girobond NB and Ceramill Zi groups (p = 0.537 and p = 0.569, respectively). In the buccolingual plane, there was no significant difference in the overall mean discrepancy between the three groups: CS/CZ (p = 1.000), GI/CS (p = 0.51), and GI/CZ (p = 0.87). Significant differences at several measurement points were found at the inter or intramaterial level. The increase in discrepancy values between marginal and occlusal measurements was evident for the three groups.

Conclusions

Presintered three‐unit FDPs fabricated from zirconia and Co‐Cr exhibited internal and marginal discrepancy values similar to cast Co‐Cr. A significant difference was reported between CS and CZ in mesiodistal planes. The axial and marginal differences in values for the three tested groups were below or around the 120 µm clinically acceptable threshold except for the occlusal area. When comparing first premolar to first molar, the internal and marginal discrepancies were similar with no apparent distortion of the framework after the sintering process.