bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Right Ventricular Early Inflow‐Outflow Index—A new method for echocardiographic evaluation of right ventricle dysfunction in acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Acar Emrah , İzci Servet , Inanir Mehmet , Yılmaz Mehmet Fatih , Izgi Ibrahim Akin , Kirma Cevat
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Acute pulmonary embolism (APE) is a cardiothoracic thromboembolic emergency at risk of life‐threatening. Several risk graduation algorithms may be applied to delineate short‐term mortality in patients with APE. In this study, we aim to depict the relationship between the right ventricular early inflow‐outflow (RVEIO) index, which is a Doppler‐based parameter, and the pulmonary embolism severity index(PESI) in acute pulmonary embolism.

Methods

In the presented study, a total of 160 patients who were diagnosed with APE using pulmonary computed tomography angiography or ventilation/perfusion scintigraphy were comprised. Patients were separated to 2 groups based on the simplified PESI (sPESI): sPESI < 1 (n = 88) and sPESI ≥ 1 (n = 72). Echocardiographic parameters, including the RVEIO index, were measured.

Results

There were no significant differences between the groups in age and gender distribution, or the presence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, smoking, and history of coronary artery disease. There was a positive correlation with the mortality rate and RVEIO index; the mortality was higher in patients with a higher RVEIO index(<0.001). In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis using a cutoff level of 14.39, RVEIO index predicted mortality with a sensitivity of 80.4% and specificity of 57.6%(ROC area under curve:0.694; 95%CI, 0.581‐0.814; P < .001). RVEIO index was higher in the sPESI ≥ 1(n:72) than in the patients with sPESI < 1(14.27 ± 2.13 vs 10.63 ± 2.09; P < .001). There was a positive correlation between RVEIO index and sPESI score(+0.428; P < .001).

Conclusion

As well as predicting the degree of tricuspid regurgitation (TR), the RVEIO index is well‐correlated with sPESI score and is associated with mortality in patients with APE. This easily measurable parameter may be used to predict short‐term mortality in APE patients.
Mechanical dispersion in Fabry disease assessed with speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Cianciulli Tomas F. , Saccheri María C. , Rísolo Mario A. , Lax Jorge A. , Méndez Ricardo J. , Morita Luis A. , Beck Martin A. , Kazelián Lucia R.
Published: January 2020

Background

Fabry disease (FD) is a rare X‐linked storage disorder caused by deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme α‐galactosidase A, and it typically causes multiorgan dysfunction. The main cause of death is heart disease resulting from left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction, LV systolic dysfunction, severe LV hypertrophy (LVH), and sudden death. In several cardiac disorders, LV systolic dysfunction and ventricular arrhythmias are associated with mechanical dispersion (MD). MD has until now not been studied in patients with FD.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of MD in patients with FD.

Methods

Complete echocardiographic data and speckle tracking echocardiographic data were collected. MD is an index of inter‐segmental discoordination of contraction and is defined as the standard deviation (SD) of the time‐to‐peak longitudinal negative strain in 17 LV segments with a value >49 milliseconds. Patients with FD were divided into the following 2 groups: group I (patients with FD but no LVH, n = 64) and group II (patients with FD and LVH, n = 25). These groups were compared with a group of healthy subjects (group III, n = 50). Parametric variables were expressed as mean ± SD, and nonparametric variables were expressed as median and inter‐quartile range. A P value <.05 was considered significant.

Results

A total of 113 patients with FD were included in this study. Of these, 24 (21%) were excluded because of poor imaging quality or presence of comorbidities, and the final study population consisted of 89 patients (mean age of 33.5 ± 14.5 years, 64% female). Group II patients were older than group I patients (46 ± 13 years vs 27 ± 11 years, P < .0001). There was no difference in LV ejection fraction between the 3 groups. There was also no difference in MD between groups I and III (32.4 ms [26‐39] vs 32 ms [26‐39]). In group II, the MD in 19 patients (76%) was 56 ms (39‐80).

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to assess the prevalence of MD in patients with FD. MD was observed in 76% of patients with FD and LVH. The use of MD in strain echocardiography may be beneficial in the assessment of patients with FD who develop heart failure.
Increase in interventricular septum thickness may be the first sign of cardiovascular change in kidney donors
Authors: Gokalp Cenk , Guner Oytun Merve , Gunay Emrah , Dogdus Mustafa , Sezis Demirci Meltem , Sen Sait , Tamsel Sadik , Sezer Taylan Ozgur , Toz Huseyin
Published: January 2020

Background

Because of the inadequate number of deceased kidney donors, living kidney donation remains an important issue for kidney transplantation. Previous studies have shown that living donation does not differ life expectancy and progression to end‐stage renal disease compared with the normal population. In this study, we investigated short‐term cardiovascular changes after donor nephrectomy.

Methods

Thirty‐four patients who underwent donor nephrectomy between January 2015 and July 2015 at Ege University Renal Transplantation Unit were included in the study. Arterial stiffness, multifrequency bioimpedance analysis, renal ARFI elastography, and echocardiography performed prior to the donor nephrectomy and 6 months after nephrectomy.

Results

A total of 34 kidney donors were enrolled in this study. Twenty donors were female (59%) and 14 donors were male (41%). The pathological evaluation of donor kidneys using implantation renal biopsy sample revealed mean Karpinski Renal Score of 1.5 and the mean glomerulosclerosis ratio was 5% for all donated kidneys. Arterial stiffness, systolic and diastolic blood pressure measures, body fluid composition, and left atrial size did not change significantly during the follow‐up. However, interventricular septum thickness of donors increased by 1 mm during a 6‐month period (9.6 mm vs 10.6 mm, P = .002).

Conclusion

We observed an increase in interventricular septum thickness in kidney donors during a 6‐month follow‐up. In order to evaluate the net effect of this change on donor morbidity, prospective studies investigating an increased number of donors with long‐term follow‐up should be needed.
Fertility and the puzzle of female employment in the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Majbouri Mahdi
Published: January 2020

Female labour force participation rates across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have remained low for over four decades even though, in the same period, women's education rapidly increased and fertility rates substantially decreased. This study provides a better understanding of this surprising phenomenon by testing whether the number of children affects the mother's labour supply (using twins at first birth as an instrumental variable.) Despite a strong first stage, it does not find statistically significant effects in the second stage, even in the combined sample of over 100,000 observations. This non‐result, however, does not rule out that fertility affects women's employment in these countries. But it rejects impacts larger than 0.09. Similar twin‐studies in the United States found effects between 0.12 and 0.31. The paper discusses the implications of this result in understanding the puzzle of female participation in MENA and in designing policies to increase women's employment.
Population genetic structure and predominance of cyclical parthenogenesis in the bird cherry‐oat aphid Rhopalosiphum padi in England
Authors: Morales‐Hojas Ramiro , Gonzalez‐Uriarte Asier , Alvira Iraizoz Fernando , Jenkins Todd , Alderson Lynda , Kruger Tracey , Hall Mike J. , Greenslade Alex , Shortall Chris R. , Bell James R.
Published: January 2020

Genetic diversity is the determinant for pest species’ success and vector competence. Understanding the ecological and evolutionary processes that determine the genetic diversity is fundamental to help identify the spatial scale at which pest populations are best managed. In the present study, we present the first comprehensive analysis of the genetic diversity and evolution of Rhopalosiphum padi, a major pest of cereals and a main vector of the barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), in England. We have used a genotyping‐by‐sequencing approach to study whether (a) there is any underlying population genetic structure at a national and regional scale in this pest that can disperse long distances; (b) the populations evolve as a response to environmental change and selective pressures; and (c) the populations comprise anholocyclic lineages. Individual R. padi were collected using the Rothamsted Insect Survey's suction‐trap network at several sites across England between 2004 and 2016 as part of the RIS long‐term nationwide surveillance. Results identified two genetic clusters in England that mostly corresponded to a North–South division, although gene flow is ongoing between the two subpopulations. These genetic clusters do not correspond to different life cycle types, and cyclical parthenogenesis is predominant in England. Results also show that there is dispersal with gene flow across England, although there is a reduction between the northern and southern sites with the south‐western population being the most genetically differentiated. There is no evidence for isolation by distance and other factors such as primary host distribution, uncommon in the south and absent in the south‐west, could influence the dispersal patterns. Finally, results also show no evidence for the evolution of the R. padi population, and it is demographically stable despite the ongoing environmental change. These results are discussed in view of their relevance to pest management and the transmission of BYDV.
Fine‐scale barriers to connectivity across a fragmented South‐East Asian landscape in six songbird species
Authors: Cros Emilie , Ng Elize Y. X. , Oh Rachel R. Y. , Tang Qian , Benedick Suzan , Edwards David P. , Tomassi Suzanne , Irestedt Martin , Ericson Per G. P. , Rheindt Frank E.
Published: January 2020

Habitat fragmentation is a major extinction driver. Despite dramatically increasing fragmentation across the globe, its specific impacts on population connectivity across species with differing life histories remain difficult to characterize, let alone quantify. Here, we investigate patterns of population connectivity in six songbird species from Singapore, a highly fragmented tropical rainforest island. Using massive panels of genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms across dozens of samples per species, we examined population genetic diversity, inbreeding, gene flow and connectivity among species along a spectrum of ecological specificities. We found a higher resilience to habitat fragmentation in edge‐tolerant and forest‐canopy species as compared to forest‐dependent understorey insectivores. The latter exhibited levels of genetic diversity up to three times lower in Singapore than in populations from contiguous forest elsewhere. Using dense genomic and geographic sampling, we identified individual barriers such as reservoirs that effectively minimize gene flow in sensitive understorey birds, revealing that terrestrial forest species may exhibit levels of sensitivity to fragmentation far greater than previously expected. This study provides a blueprint for conservation genomics at small scales with a view to identifying preferred locations for habitat corridors, flagging candidate populations for restocking with translocated individuals and improving the design of future reserves.
Comparison of immunofluorescence and chemiluminescence assays for measuring ACTH in equine plasma
Authors: McGilvray Tegan A. , Knowles Edward J. , Harris Pat A. , Menzies‐Gow Nicola J.
Published: January 2020

Background

The chemiluminescence (CL) and immunofluorescence (IF) assays yield different results for basal adrenocorticotropin hormone concentrations [ACTH] in pony plasma. It is unclear whether this difference also occurs in basal samples from horses or samples from ponies following thyrotropin‐releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation.

Objectives

To compare the results of [ACTH] analysis by CL and IF methods in basal samples from horses and pony samples following TRH stimulation.

Study design

Method comparison.

Methods

Plasma [ACTH] was measured concurrently using CL and IF methods in 12 ponies (basal and post‐TRH stimulation) in November and basal samples from horses (n = 45; November and May).

Results

CL and IF methods yielded different results (P < .01). The median difference (CL‐IF) (95% CI) for ponies was 5.9 (0.1‐7.5) pg/mL at baseline and 227.9 (61‐1001) pg/mL post TRH; and horses 1.9 (1.1‐5.4) pg/mL in November and 9.4 (8.2‐11.5) pg/mL in May, at baseline. Correlation was good in ponies at baseline (R = 0.80, P = .003) but not post‐TRH, and good in horses in November and May (R = 0.68 and 0.71, P < .001). Bland–Altman analysis demonstrated moderate bias and wide 95% limits of agreement (95% LOA) in ponies at baseline (bias 5.5 pg/mL; 95% LOA −9.9 to 20.9 pg/mL) and horses in May (bias 10.6 pg/mL; 95% LOA −9 to 30.3 pg/mL) and very large bias and wide 95% LOA in ponies post‐TRH (bias 477 pg/mL; 95% LOA −633 to 1587 pg/mL). Using CL cut‐offs of >29 and >110 pg/mL, agreement was moderate (ƙ = 0.67) and very good (ƙ = 0.82) for binary classification of PPID in ponies at baseline and post‐TRH; and good (ƙ = 0.73) for horses in November, but poor (ƙ = 0.40) in May.

Main limitations

Limited numbers of horses with [ACTH] above threshold values.

Conclusions

The assays yielded different absolute values, particularly in post‐TRH samples from ponies, suggesting TRH stimulates secretion of cross‐reacting peptides other than ACTH. Agreement for binary classification for PPID was moderate to good, except in basal samples from horses in May.
Paradise lost: End‐of‐century warming and acidification under business‐as‐usual emissions have severe consequences for symbiotic corals
Authors: van der Zande Rene M. , Achlatis Michelle , Bender‐Champ Dorothea , Kubicek Andreas , Dove Sophie , Hoegh‐Guldberg Ove
Published: January 2020

Despite recent efforts to curtail greenhouse gas emissions, current global emission trajectories are still following the business‐as‐usual representative concentration pathway (RCP) 8.5 emission pathway. The resulting ocean warming and acidification have transformative impacts on coral reef ecosystems, detrimentally affecting coral physiology and health, and these impacts are predicted to worsen in the near future. In this study, we kept fragments of the symbiotic corals Acropora intermedia (thermally sensitive) and Porites lobata (thermally tolerant) for 7 weeks under an orthogonal design of predicted end‐of‐century RCP8.5 conditions for temperature and pCO2 (3.5°C and 570 ppm above present‐day, respectively) to unravel how temperature and acidification, individually or interactively, influence metabolic and physiological performance. Our results pinpoint thermal stress as the dominant driver of deteriorating health in both species because of its propensity to destabilize coral–dinoflagellate symbiosis (bleaching). Acidification had no influence on metabolism but had a significant negative effect on skeleton growth, particularly when photosynthesis was absent such as in bleached corals or under dark conditions. Total loss of photosynthesis after bleaching caused an exhaustion of protein and lipid stores and collapse of calcification that ultimately led to A. intermedia mortality. Despite complete loss of symbionts from its tissue, P. lobata maintained small amounts of photosynthesis and experienced a weaker decline in lipid and protein reserves that presumably contributed to higher survival of this species. Our results indicate that ocean warming and acidification under business‐as‐usual CO2 emission scenarios will likely extirpate thermally sensitive coral species before the end of the century, while slowing the recovery of more thermally tolerant species from increasingly severe mass coral bleaching and mortality. This could ultimately lead to the gradual disappearance of tropical coral reefs globally, and a shift on surviving reefs to only the most resilient coral species.
Stronger regional biosecurity is essential to prevent hundreds of harmful biological invasions
Authors: Faulkner Katelyn T. , Robertson Mark P. , Wilson John R. U.
Published: January 2020

Biological invasions often transcend political boundaries, but the capacity of countries to prevent invasions varies. How this variation in biosecurity affects the invasion risks posed to the countries involved is unclear. We aimed to improve the understanding of how the biosecurity of a country influences that of its neighbours. We developed six scenarios that describe biological invasions in regions with contiguous countries. Using data from alien species databases, socio‐economic and biodiversity data and species distribution models, we determined where 86 of 100 of the world's worst invasive species are likely to invade and have a negative impact in the future. Information on the capacity of countries to prevent invasions was used to determine whether such invasions could be avoided. For the selected species, we predicted 2,523 discrete invasions, most of which would have significant negative impacts and are unlikely to be prevented. Of these invasions, approximately a third were predicted to spread from the country in which the species first establishes to neighbouring countries where they would cause significant negative impacts. Most of these invasions are unlikely to be prevented as the country of first establishment has a low capacity to prevent invasions or has little incentive to do so as there will be no impact in that country. Regional biosecurity is therefore essential to prevent future harmful biological invasions. In consequence, we propose that the need for increased regional co‐operation to combat biological invasions be incorporated in global biodiversity targets.
MLH1‐mediated recruitment of FAN1 to chromatin for the induction of apoptosis triggered by O6‐methylguanine
Authors: Rikitake Mihoko , Fujikane Ryosuke , Obayashi Yuko , Oka Kyoko , Ozaki Masao , Hidaka Masumi
Published: January 2020

O6‐Methylguanines (O6‐meG), which are produced in DNA by the action of alkylating agents, are mutagenic and cytotoxic, and induce apoptosis in a mismatch repair (MMR) protein‐dependent manner. To understand the molecular mechanism of O6‐meG‐induced apoptosis, we performed functional analyses of FANCD2 and FANCI‐associated nuclease 1 (FAN1), which was identified as an interacting partner of MLH1. Immunoprecipitation analyses showed that FAN1 interacted with both MLH1 and MSH2 after treatment with N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosourea (MNU), indicating the formation of a FAN1‐MMR complex. In comparison with control cells, FAN1‐knockdown cells were more resistant to MNU, and the appearances of a sub‐G1 population and caspase‐9 activation were suppressed. FAN1 formed nuclear foci in an MLH1‐dependent manner after MNU treatment, and some were colocalized with both MLH1 foci and single‐stranded DNA (ssDNA) created at damaged sites. Under the same condition, FANCD2 also formed nuclear foci, although it was dispensable for the formation of FAN1 foci and ssDNA. MNU‐induced formation of ssDNA was dramatically suppressed in FAN1‐knockdown cells. We therefore propose that FAN1 is loaded on chromatin through the interaction with MLH1 and produces ssDNA by its exonuclease activity, which contributes to the activation of the DNA damage response followed by the induction of apoptosis triggered by O6‐meG.
New insights into calcifying pseudoneoplasm of the neuraxis (CAPNON): a 20‐year radiological–pathological study of 37 cases
Authors: Ho Mai‐Lan , Eschbacher Kathryn L , Paolini Michael A , Raghunathan Aditya
Published: January 2020

Aims

Calcifying pseudoneoplasm of the neuraxis (CAPNON) is a rare entity that can occur anywhere within the central nervous system. Histologically, CAPNON has been characterised as a benign, calcified, fibro‐osseous lesion with a characteristic chondromyxoid fibrillary matrix with dense calcification and varying degrees of spindle, epithelioid, fibrous, meningothelial and giant cells. The underlying aetiology of CAPNON is controversial and incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive radiological and histological review to further characterise this entity.

Methods and results

In this article, we review our institutional 20‐year experience including 37 cases of CAPNON with detailed pathological analysis, evaluation of concurrent lesions, correlation with radiological imaging, and critical review of the literature. The classic histological finding of chondromyxoid matrix was present in one‐third of cases. Underlying or dual pathologies were frequent, and included diverse underlying conditions. Radiologically, dense calcification and dural attachment were the most common features. Enhancement was often low, but was more prominent in the setting of inflammatory changes, aggressive growth, and dual pathology.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that CAPNON represents a spectrum of reactive processes that can arise in association with diverse underlying pathologies, including inflammatory, degenerative, vascular and neoplastic lesions.
Effects of transforming growth factor‐β1 on plasminogen activation in stem cells from the apical papilla: role of activating receptor‐like kinase 5/Smad2 and mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signalling
Authors: Chang M. C. , Chang H. H. , Hsieh W. C. , Huang W. L. , Lian Y. C. , Jeng P. Y. , Wang Y. L. , Yeung S. Y. , Jeng J. H.
Published: January 2020

Aim

To study the effects of TGF‐β1 on the plasminogen activation (PA) system of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) and its signalling.

Methodology

SCAP cells were isolated from the apical papilla of immature permanent teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. They were exposed to various concentration of TGF‐β1 with/without pretreatment and coincubation by SB431542 (ALK/Smad2/3 inhibitor), or U0126 (MEK/ERK inhibitor). MTT assay, Western blotting and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to detect their effects on cell viability, and the protein expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA), uPA receptor (uPAR) and their secretion. The paired Student’s t‐test was used for statistical analysis.

Results

TGF‐β1 significantly stimulated PAI‐1 and soluble uPAR (suPAR) secretion of SCAP cells (P < 0.05), whereas uPA secretion was inhibited. Accordingly, TGF‐β1 induced both PAI‐1 and uPAR protein expression of SCAP cells. SB431542 (an ALK5/Smad2/3 inhibitor) pretreatment and coincubation prevented the TGF‐β1‐induced PAI‐1 and uPAR of SCAP. U0126 attenuated the TGF‐β1‐induced expression/secretion of uPAR, but not PAI‐1 in SCAP. SB431542 reversed the TGF‐β1‐induced decline of uPA.

Conclusions

TGF‐β1 may affect the repair/regeneration activities of SCAP via differential increase or decrease of PAI‐1, uPA and uPAR. These effects induced by TGF‐β1 are associated with ALK5/Smad2/3 and MEK/ERK activation. Elucidation the signalling pathways and effects of TGF‐β1 is useful for treatment of immature teeth with open apex by revascularization/revitalization procedures and tissue repair/regeneration.
Physico‐chemical investigation of endodontic sealers exposed to simulated intracanal heat application: epoxy resins and zinc oxide–eugenols
Authors: Donnermeyer D. , Urban K. , Bürklein S. , Schäfer E.
Published: January 2020

Aim

To gain information in a laboratory setting about the effect of thermal treatment of epoxy resin‐based and zinc oxide–eugenol‐based sealers.

Methodology

AH Plus and Pulp Canal Sealer (PCS) were exposed to thermal treatment at 37, 47, 57, 67, 77, 87 and 97 °C for 30 s. According to clinically relevant considerations, intracanal sealer temperature is likely not to exceed 60 °C during warm vertical root canal filling. Heat application is recommended for less than 30 s during continuous wave technique, but might exceed this threshold in complex cases. Furthermore, heat treatment at 97 °C was performed for 60 and 180 s to simulate inappropriate implementation of warm vertical filling techniques. Specimens were heated inside 2‐mL plastic tubes in a thermo‐controlled water bath until the temperatures were reached and kept at this temperature for the determined period of time. Afterwards, specimens were cooled to body temperature and physical properties (setting time, flow, film thickness according to ISO 6876) were assessed. Chemical properties (Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy) were assessed after complete setting of the specimens in an incubator at 37 °C and 100% humidity. Statistical analysis of physical properties was performed using Kruskal–Wallis test (P = 0.05).

Results

The setting time of AH Plus and PCS decreased when temperature and duration of heat application increased. Whilst the setting time of AH Plus decreased from 622 min at 20 °C (for 30 s) to 381 min at 97 °C (for 180 s; P < 0.05), heat treatment of PCS at 97 °C for 180 s led to an immediate setting of the material. From 20 °C (for 30 s) to 97 °C (for 30 s), the setting time of PCS decreased from 80.1 to 41.0 h (P < 0.05). Film thickness and flow were not relevantly influenced by thermal treatment except for PCS at 97 °C for 180 s. FT‐IR spectroscopy did not reveal any chemical changes of either sealer after thermal treatment.

Conclusions

Thermal treatment simulating clinically relevant temperature levels and heating times did not lead to any substantial physical or chemical changes at all temperature levels when heating did not exceed 60 s. AH Plus and Pulp Canal Sealer can be considered suitable for warm root filling techniques.
Real‐time chemical analysis of root filling materials with heating: guidelines for safe temperature levels
Authors: Atmeh A. R. , Hadis M. , Camilleri J.
Published: January 2020

Aim

To investigate the chemical changes affecting different types of gutta‐percha and endodontic sealers during heating, and correlate changes with the heating capacity of different heat carriers.

Methodology

The heating capacity of three endodontic heat carriers was evaluated using thermocouples to produce heat profiles. The devices were activated at different temperature set‐ups, in continuous or cut‐out modes. Chemical changes of six brands of gutta‐percha and four types of sealers were assessed in real time during heating using micro‐Raman spectroscopy equipped with a heating stage. Raman spectra of each tested material were averaged and compared at different temperature levels. The sealers were further assessed by Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy.

Results

None of the tested heat carriers achieved the temperature levels that were set by the devices and recommended by the manufacturer. The use of continuous heating mode resulted in higher rises in temperature than the 4 s cut‐out mode that reached 110 °C. The various brands of gutta‐percha exhibited different chemical changes in response to heat. Some changes even occurred below temperature levels generated by the heating devices. All sealers revealed changes in their chemical composition upon heating. Changes in epoxy resin‐ and zinc oxide–eugenol‐based sealers were detectable at 100 °C, with structural alterations beyond that temperature and irreversible changes after cooling. Water loss was irreversible in BioRoot, but its chemical structure was stable as well as for the TotalFill.

Conclusions

The heating capacity of endodontic heat carriers needs to be standardized, so that the temperatures delivered by the tips are the same as that set on the dial. Practitioners should be aware of the actual temperatures generated by these devices, and the suitability of sealers to be used at the temperature levels achieved.
The effect of Dy3+ doping on the thermoluminescence properties of Ba2SiO4
Authors: Kafadar Vural E. , Yeşilkaynak Tuncay , Demirdogen Ruken Esra , Othman Awara A. , Emen Fatih Mehmet , Erat Selma
Published: January 2020

The thermoluminescence (TL) properties of barium silicate phosphor, Ba2SiO4:%3Dy3+ synthesized by using hydrothermal method were investigated and presented in detail. The crystallographic structure of Ba2SiO4:%3Dy3+ was determined by conventional x‐ray diffraction technique and the results showed that the sample was grown in orthorhombic phase with Pmcn (62) space group (PDF: 01‐077‐0150). The excitation spectra of Ba2SiO4:Dy3+ were measured in the wavelength range of 220‐400 nm and the spectra showed that there were several excitation bands in the sample. The CIE chromaticity coordinates were also calculated from emission spectra for Dy3+‐doped Ba2SiO4. In order to calculate the kinetic parameters of the sample the additive dose, peak shape and computerized glow curve deconvolution methods were used. It was found that Ba2SiO4:Dy3+ was composed of five general order TL glow peaks. The fading characteristics of the sample were also studied over a period time. At the end of the planned storage times, the normalized TL peak area of Ba2SiO4:Dy3+ reduced 60% of its original value.
Noodle processing, storage time and cooking affect the antioxidant activities and phenolic compounds content of Qingke barley noodles
Authors: Tuersuntuoheti Tuohetisayipu , Wang Zhenhua , Duan Mengjie , Asimi Sailimuhan , Ren Xin , Wang Ziyuan , Zheng Yanyan , Wu Yan , Liang Shan , Zhang Min
Published: January 2020

The impact of noodle processing, storage and cooking on the total phenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) was assessed. Total phenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) of mixed flour were 77.50 and 39.56 mg per 100 g, respectively, and it decreased to 71.80 and 36.30 mg per 100 g after noodle processing. For the fresh Qingke barley noodles (FQBNs), stored at 25 °C, both TPC and TFC decreased significantly during storage. After cooking the fresh noodles, the TPC of the noodles stored for 0 and 4 h increased, while it decreased for the noodles stored for 8, 16 and 24 h; the TFC of all cooked Qingke barley noodles (CQBNs) decreased. Compared with the flour, the DPPH•, ABTS•+, HO• and scavenging ability and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) decreased significantly (P < 0.05) after noodle processing. For FQBN, increased storage time led to a reduction in antioxidant ability. After cooking, the DPPH• and HO• scavenging ability and FRAP of noodles stored at 25 °C for 0 and 4 h, and the ABTS•+ and scavenging ability of noodles stored at 25 °C for 0, 4 and 8 h increased. Overall, noodle processing, storage and cooking will affect the phenolic compound content and antioxidant activities of barley noodles. Although the shelf life of FQBN is 17 h at 25 °C, from the perspective of nutrition, it is not suitable for long‐term storage, and it is best choice to consume it within the first 4 h.
Resveratrol alters texture and provides nutritional benefits in white‐salted noodles
Authors: He Meng , Xu Zekun , Yao Shijia , Ma Mengting , Huang Wuyang , Sui Zhongquan , Corke Harold
Published: January 2020

The effects of resveratrol (RSV) addition on quality of fractionated wheat flour and the corresponding cooked white‐salted noodles were investigated. Commercial wheat flour was fractionated into four particle size groups, that is <45, 45–65, 65–105 and >105 μm. RSV was incorporated into the fractionated flour at three different levels. Swelling power increased in each of the four particle size groups with the addition of RSV. RSV at 0.5% led to a decrease in rapidly digestible starch and an increase in slowly digestible starch. Antioxidant capacity increased with the addition of RSV except for the >105 μm particle size group, which declined in oxygen radical absorbance capacity value. Smaller particle size could increase antioxidant capacity, but extremely small particle size may decrease it. Addition of RSV increased tensile strength and decreased hardness of cooked noodles. This study showed that resveratrol addition to wheat flour had potential to bring quality and health benefits.
Detection of anti‐NS1 antibodies after pandemic influenza exposure: Evaluation of a serological method for distinguishing H1N1pdm09 infected from vaccinated cases
Authors: Robertson Anna Hayman , Mahic Milada , Savic Miloje , Tunheim Gro , Hungnes Olav , Trogstad Lill , Lipkin Walter Ian , Mjaaland Siri
Published: January 2020

Background

Reliable exposure information is crucial for assessing health outcomes of influenza infection and vaccination. Current serological methods are unable to distinguish between anti‐hemagglutinin (HA) antibodies induced by infection or vaccination.

Objectives

We aimed to explore an alternative method for differentiating influenza infection and vaccination.

Methods

Sera from animals inoculated with influenza viruses or purified H1N1pdm09 HA were obtained. Human samples were selected from a pregnancy cohort established during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. Unvaccinated, laboratory‐confirmed cases (N = 18), vaccinated cases without influenza‐like‐illness (N = 18) and uninfected, unvaccinated controls (N = 18) were identified based on exposure data from questionnaires, national registries and maternal hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titres at delivery. Animal and human samples were tested for antibodies against the non‐structural protein 1 (NS1) and HA from H1N1pdm09, using a Luciferase Immunoprecipitation System (LIPS).

Results

Anti‐NS1 H1N1pdm09 antibodies were detected in sera from experimentally infected, but not from vaccinated, animals. Anti‐HA H1N1pdm09 antibodies were detectable after either of these exposures. In human samples, 28% of individuals with laboratory‐confirmed influenza were seropositive for H1N1pdm09 NS1, whereas vaccinated cases and controls were seronegative. There was a trend for H1N1pdm09 NS1 seropositive cases reporting more severe and longer duration of symptomatic illness than seronegative cases. Anti‐HA H1N1pdm09 antibodies were detected in all cases and in 61% of controls.

Conclusions

The LIPS method could differentiate between sera from experimentally infected and vaccinated animals. However, in human samples obtained more than 6 months after the pandemic, LIPS was specific, but not sufficiently sensitive for ascertaining cases by exposure.
General characterization of regeneration in Aeolosoma viride (Annelida, Aeolosomatidae)
Authors: Chen Chiao‐Ping , Fok Sheridan Ke-Wing , Hsieh Yu‐Wen , Chen Cheng‐Yi , Hsu Fei‐Man , Chang Yao‐Hsiang , Chen Jiun‐Hong
Published: January 2020

Regeneration has long been the focus of scientific interest for its potential to restore lost, damaged, or aged tissues and organs. A wide range of regenerative studies have been conducted on different vertebrate and invertebrate model organisms. Annelids are known for their regenerative capacities, and because of their relatively complex organ systems, they are an ideal organism for regeneration study. Our present work focused on the freshwater annelid Aeolosoma viride, an asexually reproducing annelid capable of regenerating both anteriorly and posteriorly. Even though regenerative ability has been documented in this animal in previous studies, detailed characterization of the process is still unavailable. The objective of this study was to evaluate the regenerative ability of A. viride. We described the sequential morphological events during the process of regeneration, such as wound healing and the formation of blastema, mouth, and pygidium. In order to clarify the capacity and type of regeneration, we conducted a series of observations and experiments using a cell proliferation assay. Massive proliferation and the absence of cell migration indicated that the animal regenerates primarily through epimorphosis. Our study of the epimorphic regenerative process of A. viride provides a clearer picture of the evolutionary origin of regeneration in annelids.
Structural analysis of oxyfluoride borate glass and BaF2 crystallization from phase separation
Authors: Rodríguez Chialanza Mauricio , Schneider José Fabian , Keuchkerian Romina , Romero Mariano , Faccio Ricardo , Olivera Alvaro , Bentos Pereira Heinkel
Published: January 2020

Oxyfluoride glass and glass‐ceramics are being studied due to the possibility of their utilization in many applications, such as thermoluminescent dosimeters, optical fibers, fluorescent concentrators, and temperature sensors. In order to improve the properties of glass, they are often crystallized. For this crystallization to be effective, knowledge and control of the structure of the starting material is required. Much work was done on silicate glass; however, a great interest exists in obtaining these kinds of materials in other matrices such as germanates, phosphates, and borates. Here, we present a structural study of some oxyfluoride borate glass with different concentrations of PbF2 by means of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Raman, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies. We also analyzed glass‐crystallization using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The crystallization study was complemented with the use of Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED), for the purpose of identifying possible mechanisms of crystallization. Our results indicate, from the structural point of view, that the glass present groups with one or two BO4 species, such as diborate or pentaborate. The small variation in the BO4 fraction with the increase in PbF2 concentration would be an indication of the formation of F−BO3/2 species. Oxyfluoride borate glass containing BaO as a cation modifier and 30% PbF2 represents a good starting point for obtaining glass‐ceramics with a narrow size distribution of BaF2 nanocrystals. We also propose that the possible mechanism for oxyfluoride borate glass crystallization started with a separation of phases.
Indentation densification of fused silica assessed by raman spectroscopy and constitutive finite element analysis
Authors: Bruns Sebastian , Uesbeck Tobias , Fuhrmann Sindy , Tarragó Aymerich Mariona , Wondraczek Lothar , de Ligny Dominique , Durst Karsten
Published: January 2020

Inelastic deformation of anomalous glasses manifests in shear flow and densification of the glass network; the deformation behavior during indentation testing is linked strongly to both processes. In this paper, the indentation densification field of fused silica is investigated using depth‐resolved Raman spectroscopy and finite element simulations. Through affecting the size of the indent, the normal load and the Raman laser spot size determine the spatial sampling resolution, leading to a certain degree of structural averaging. For appropriate combinations of normal load (indent size) and laser spot diameter, a maximum densification of 18.4% was found at the indent center. The indentation behavior was modeled by extended Drucker‐Prager‐Cap (DPC) plasticity, assuming a sigmoidal hardening behavior of fused silica with a densification saturation of 21%. This procedure significantly improved the reproduction of the experimental densification field, yielding a maximum densification of 18.2% directly below the indenter tip. The degree of densification was found to be strongly linked to the hydrostatic pressure limit below the indenter in accordance to Johnson's expanding cavity model (J. Mech. Phys. Solids, 18 (1970) 115). Based on the good overlap between FEA and Raman, an alternative way to extract the empirical correlation factor m, which scales structural densification to Raman spectroscopic observations, is obtained. This approach does not require the use of intensive hydrostatic compaction experiments.
SiOC modified carbon‐bonded carbon fiber composite with SiC nanowires enhanced interfibrous junctions
Authors: Su Lei , Li Baoyu , Wang Hongjie , Niu Min , Fan Xingyu
Published: January 2020

Carbon‐bonded carbon fiber (CBCF) composites are promising lightweight and high efficient thermal insulators to be applied in aerospace area, but their practical applications are usually restricted by the low mechanical performance and poor oxidation resistance. To overcome these drawbacks, many efforts have been made in the fabrication of ceramic coated CBCF composites. However, the densities of these modified composites are usually very high, which would result in the reduction in their thermal insulation performance. Herein, we prepared a CBCF composite with SiC nanowires enhanced interfibrous junctions and SiOC ceramic coated carbon fibers (SiCNWs‐SiOC‐CBCF). Similar to CBCF, the SiCNWs‐SiOC‐CBCF exhibits a low density of 0.35 g/cm3 and an anisotropic and highly porous architecture. The SiCNWs‐SiOC‐CBCF possesses a compressive strength of 3.8 MPa and a compression modulus of 195.7 MPa in the X (or Y) direction, ~26.7% and 150% higher than those of CBCF respectively. It can also suffer from an isothermal treatment in air at 900°C for 120 minutes. The combination of these properties makes the SiCNWs‐SiOC‐CBCF a good candidate for thermal insulator to be applied in extreme conditions.
Intrinsic second‐order nonlinearity in chalcogenide glasses containing HgI2
Authors: Tverjanovich Andrey , Borisov Evgenii N. , Kassem Mohammad , Masselin Pascal , Fontanari Daniele , Bychkov Eugene
Published: January 2020

Frequency conversion using nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals is widely used in advanced photonic technologies to produce coherent light in the spectral regions where the available laser sources are missing. Isotropic glasses usually do not show second order nonlinear processes like second harmonic or difference frequency generation (SHG, DFG) except for temporarily induced anisotropy under external stimuli. Here, we show that a HgI2–Ga2S3–GeS2 homogeneous glass exhibits a strong intrinsic SHG response comparable with that of the well‐known NLO single crystal LiNbO3. The origin of this extremely rare phenomenon seems to be noncentrosymmetric bent HgI2 molecules embedded in a sulfide glassy host. Taking into account the unique properties of chalcogenide glasses (wide IR transmission, low phonon density, unlimited ability to be modified changing the appropriate glass properties, fiber drawing and thin layer design), the observed phenomenon opens up the possibility of creating fundamentally new devices for mid‐IR photonics.
Thermal history and its implications: A case study for ion exchange
Authors: Zhang Liying , Guo Xiaoju
Published: January 2020

Glasses containing monovalent species can be chemically strengthened by the replacement of smaller ions in the glass with larger external ions in the near glass surface. This type of ion exchange puts glass surface under high compressive stress (CS). Glass mainly fails from tension with the presence of surface flaws. Chemical strengthening can change the stress at the flaw tip from tension to compression and further stop the flaw from propagating. Glass damage resistance is therefore significantly improved. For the same glass composition, glass thermal histories can affect the magnitude and depth of the CS generated during ion exchange. In this study, the impact of thermal history on glass physical properties and ion exchange attributes in one alkali‐containing glass formed by fusion draw process was investigated. Multiple thermal treatments were done to rewrite the glass thermal histories. Glass density, refractive index, and ion‐exchange properties as a function of the thermal treatment were studied. It is concluded that ion exchange‐related properties change dramatically with the glass thermal history.
An overview of hypertension and cardiac involvement in Asia: Focus on heart failure
Authors: Soenarta Arieska Ann , Buranakitjaroen Peera , Chia Yook‐Chin , Chen Chen‐Huan , Nailes Jennifer , Hoshide Satoshi , Minh Huynh Van , Park Sungha , Shin Jinho , Siddique Saulat , Sison Jorge , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Sukonthasarn Apichard , Tay Jam Chin , Teo Boon Wee , Turana Yuda , Verma Narsingh , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Zhang Yu‐Qing , Wang Ji‐Guang , Kario Kazuomi
Published: January 2020

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the leading cause of deaths worldwide, contributing to about 30% of all deaths. Half of the cases of CVD are estimated in Asia, the world's most populous continent. Hypertension, a major modifiable risk factor for CVD, results in more deaths than any other CV risk factors in the Asian regions. The total number of patients with hypertension is likely to grow as the population ages. The proportion of the elderly population aged 65 years or more in Asia is expected to increase from 7.4% in 2015 to 10.9% in 2030. It is important to note that more than half (54%) of the world's population live in Asia. Aside of being the biggest single risk factor for global deaths, hypertension is also an important precursor and most common risk factor of heart failure (HF). An increase in HF prevalence is clearly related to the rapid epidemiological transition caused by changes in lifestyle in Asian countries. However, the availability of data on HF burden and health care delivery is limited in Asia compared with Europe and North America. This reality has driven the working group of Asian experts for example the HOPE Asia Network to concentrate on hypertension as risk factors for CVD, with the mission to improve the management of hypertension resulting in organ protection toward a goal of achieving “ZERO” CV event in Asia. This paper aims to give an overview regarding the heart problems caused by hypertension in Asia, focus on HF.
Prognostic value of left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertensive patients: A meta‐analysis of electrocardiographic studies
Authors: Zhang Hongsheng , Hu Lingai , Wei Xiqing
Published: January 2020

Electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) has been used to predict adverse outcomes in different clinical settings. This meta‐analysis aimed to compare the prognostic value of different electrocardiographic criteria of LVH at baseline in hypertensive patients. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Embase databases until December 3, 2019. Cohort studies that reported the association of baseline electrocardiographic LVH (Sokolow‐Lyon voltage, Cornell voltage or Cornell product) with all‐cause mortality or major cardiovascular events in hypertensive patients were included. The prognostic value of LVH was expressed by the risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Nine studies involving 41 870 hypertensive patients were identified. Comparison with those with and without LVH patients indicated that the pooled RR value of all‐cause mortality was 1.30 (95% CI 1.01‐1.66) for the Sokolow‐Lyon voltage criteria, 1.33 (95% CI 1.20‐1.47) for the Cornell voltage criteria, and 1.31 (95% CI 0.97‐1.78) for the Cornell product criteria. In addition, the pooled RR of major cardiovascular events was 1.53 (95% CI 1.27‐1.86) for the Sokolow‐Lyon criteria and 1.46 (95% CI 1.22‐1.76) for the Cornell voltage criteria, respectively. This meta‐analysis suggests that different electrocardiographic criteria for detecting LVH at baseline differ in prediction of all‐cause mortality in patients with hypertension. LVH detected by the Cornell voltage and Sokolow‐Lyon criteria can independently predict the major cardiovascular events in hypertensive patients.