bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stabilization of directly acidified protein drinks by single and mixed hydrocolloids—combining particle size, rheology, tribology, and sensory data
Authors: Liu Jing , Pedersen Heidi Liva , Knarreborg Lisbeth , Ipsen Richard , Bredie Wender L. P.
Published: October 2020

Background

High methoxyl pectin and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) can be used as a stabilizer for directly acidified protein drinks (DAPDs). Use of pectin or CMC together with other polysaccharides and their impacts on product's rheological properties and tribological behavior are still largely unknown. This project investigated the impact of pectin and CMC, alone or in combination with guar gum, locust bean gum (LBG), and gellan gum when preparing DAPDs. The particle size distributions, rheological properties, tribological properties, and sensory properties were determined.

Results

Pectin and CMC were dominating in the mixed system with other stabilizers. Increasing the concentration of hydrocolloids resulted in higher viscosity and better lubrication (lower friction coefficient). The sensory viscosity, smoothness, coating, and stickiness intensified as the concentration of hydrocolloids increased. The type and amount of hydrocolloids had a strong effect on the sensorial texture perception, but the flavor perception was only slightly affected.

Conclusion

Use of combined stabilizers may contribute to providing an effective viscosity enhancement without affecting the flavor in acidified milk beverages.
Short‐term and long‐term unstimulated saliva flow following unilateral vs bilateral radiotherapy for oropharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Huang Shao Hui , de Almeida John R. , Watson Erin , Glogauer Michael , Xu Wei , Keshavarzi Sareh , O'Sullivan Brian , Ringash Jolie , Hope Andrew , Bayley Andrew , Bratman Scott V. , Cho John , Giuliani Meredith , Kim John , Waldron John , Spreafico Anna , Goldstein David P , Chepeha Douglas B. , Li Tong , Hosni Ali
Published: October 2020

Background

We aimed to compare unstimulated saliva flow using 3‐minute modified Schirmer test (MST) following bilateral vs unilateral radiotherapy (RT) in oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC).

Methods

We reviewed OPC patients treated with definitive intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) between 2011 and 2017. MST was measured at baseline, 1‐/6‐/12‐/24‐month post‐RT. MST values were compared between bilateral‐RT vs unilateral‐RT groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis (MVA) identified predictors of hyposalivation (MST < 25 mm).

Results

Total 498 bilateral‐RT and 36 unilateral‐RT patients were eligible. The MST values at 1‐/6‐/12‐/24‐month post‐RT were all significantly reduced from baseline for the entire cohort. Baseline unilateral‐RT and bilateral‐RT MST values (in mm) were similar (P = .2), but much higher for unilateral‐RT 1‐month (mean: 19.1 vs 13.0, P = .03), 6‐month (20.5 vs 9.3, P < .001), 12‐month (20.1 vs 11.9, P < .01), and 24‐month post‐RT (22.2 vs 13.9, P = .04). MVA confirmed that unilateral RT reduced the likelihood of hyposalivation vs bilateral RT (OR 2.36, P = .006).

Conclusion

Unilateral RT reduces unstimulated salivary flow in OPC patients.
Prognostic value of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 in biomarker exploration using multiplex immunoassay in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma treated with axitinib
Authors: Honma Naoko , Inoue Takamitsu , Tsuchiya Norihiko , Koizumi Atsushi , Yamamoto Ryohei , Nara Taketoshi , Kanda Sohei , Huang Mingguo , Numakura Kazuyuki , Saito Mitsuru , Narita Shintaro , Satoh Shigeru , Habuchi Tomonori
Published: October 2020

Background and Aims

Vascular endothelial growth factor‐directed therapies play a significant role in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Biomarkers for predicting treatment efficacy and resistance are required to develop personalized medicine. We evaluated multiple serum cytokine levels in patients with mRCC treated with axitinib to explore predictive biomarkers.

Methods

From September 2012 to October 2015, serum samples were collected from 44 patients with mRCC before treatment and 4 weeks after axitinib initiation. Bio‐Plex Pro Human Cancer Biomarker Panels 1 and 2 were used to measure levels of 34 serum biomarkers related to angiogenesis and cell proliferation.

Results

Patients with partial response or stable disease had significantly decreased serum plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) level from pre‐treatment to 4 weeks after axitinib initiation compared with those with progressive disease (P = .022). The median progression‐free survival (PFS) and median overall survival (OS) in patients with increased serum PAI‐1 level from pre‐treatment to 4 weeks after axitinib initiation were significantly shorter than those with decreased serum PAI‐1 level (P = .027 and P = .026, respectively). Increased serum PAI‐1 level from pre‐treatment to 4 weeks after axitinib initiation was an independent prognostic marker for shorter PFS and OS in multivariate analyses (P = .015 and P = .032, respectively). The immunohistochemical staining intensity of PAI‐1 in tumor specimens was significantly associated with Fuhrman grade and presence of distant metastasis (P = .026 and P = .010, respectively).

Conclusions

The initial change in serum PAI‐1 level in the early stage of axitinib treatment could be a useful prognostic biomarker in patients with mRCC.
On the effect of heat generation/absorption on magnetohydrodynamic free convective flow in a vertical annulus: An Adomian decomposition method
Authors: Gambo Jeremiah J. , Gambo Dauda
Published: October 2020

This article deliberates fully developed natural convective flow of heat‐generating/absorbing fluid in open‐ended vertical concentric annulus under a magnetic field. The momentum and energy equations which arise from the definition of velocity and temperature are written in the dimensional form and then recast into the nondimensional form. Approximate solutions are obtained by using the semi‐analytical Adomian decomposition method. The solutions for the velocity, temperature, skin friction, mass flux and rate of heat transfer are obtained. The influence of physical parameters such as heat generation/absorption parameter and Hartmann number (M) are illustrated with the aid of graphs and tables. In the course of this investigation, it is found that an increase in the heat generation/absorption parameter increases the temperature. In addition, the magnitude of the temperature is higher for heat‐generating fluid in comparison to heat‐absorbing fluid. Furthermore, the temperature and velocity can be controlled by carefully selecting suitable values of the heat generation/absorption parameter and Hartmann number respectively.
Effects of aripiprazole long‐acting injectable antipsychotic on hospitalization in recent‐onset schizophrenia
Authors: Karlović Dalibor , Silić Ante , Crnković Danijel , Peitl Vjekoslav
Published: October 2020

Objective

Recent‐onset schizophrenia (ROS) represents a critical period that can greatly influence the clinical course of schizophrenia. The use of long‐acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIs) in this period is increasingly being considered as a first‐line treatment option. Aripiprazole LAI (ALAI) is the newest of all LAI's available on the market, with limited data on its effects on hospitalization rates after first episode of schizophrenia. It was our goal to evaluate whether ALAI has an effect on hospitalization rates, number of bed days and clinical improvement in patients with ROS.

Methods

This mirror‐image study included 138 inpatients suffering from schizophrenia. We collected sociodemographic data on all individuals, number of hospitalization days, hospitalization rates as well as Clinical Global Impression Scale—severity of illness (CGI‐S) and Clinician‐Rated Dimensions of Psychosis Symptom Severity (CRDPSS) scores at the initiation of ALAI and at the end of a 1 year follow up.

Results

Mean number of hospitalizations and hospitalization days in the year after starting ALAI significantly decreased compared to the year before (p = 0.005 and p < 0.001). Mean scores on both CGI and CRDPSS also significantly decreased after initiating ALAI (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Results suggest that ALAI is an important therapeutic option in patients with ROS. It leads to reduced usage of hospital services, potentially reducing the socio‐economic healthcare burden.
Is personality stable in adolescence? Disentangling time‐invariant and time‐varying factors of personality in a trait–state–occasion model
Authors: Wu Pei‐Chen
Published: October 2020

This study applied trait–state–occasion (TSO) modelling to investigate the extent to which inter‐individual differences in personality were accounted for by time‐invariant and time‐varying factors during adolescence. The participants were 753 high school students, and only 661 students were followed for 4 years. The mean age in the first year was 15.23 years and 52.8% were females. The results showed that the full TSO model had the best representation of adolescent personality, and the means of the proportions of variance explained by trait factors for the Big Five ranged between 56% and 83%, suggesting that inter‐individual differences in personality are mainly accounted for by stable trait variance over the course of adolescence. Furthermore, the five dimensions of personality differed not only in the amounts of trait variance but also in the stability of time‐varying factors. These findings have significant implications for personality research.
Role of the Hippo‐YAP/NF‐κB signaling pathway crosstalk in regulating biological behaviors of macrophages under titanium ion exposure
Authors: Tang Kai‐ming , Chen Wei , Tang Ze‐hua , Yu Xiao‐yu , Zhu Wen‐qing , Zhang Song‐mei , Qiu Jing
Published: October 2020

The presence of metal ions, such as titanium (Ti) ions, is toxic to adjacent tissues of implants. Indeed, Ti ions may induce an inflammatory response through the NF‐κB pathway, thus causing damage to soft and hard tissues. The involvement of Yes‐associated protein (YAP), a key factor of the Hippo pathway, in an immuno‐inflammatory response has been confirmed, whereas its role in Ti ion‐mediated inflammation has not been elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of signal crosstalk between the Hippo/YAP and NF‐κB signaling pathways in the pro‐inflammatory effect of Ti ions on macrophages. In our work, RAW264.7 cells were cocultured with Ti ions. The migration capacity of macrophages under Ti ion exposure was measured by transwell assay. Western blot analysis was used to detect the expressions of related proteins. Polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. The nucleus translocation of YAP and P65 was visualized and analyzed via immunofluorescence staining. The results showed that the migration of macrophages was promoted under Ti ion exposure. Ten parts per million Ti ions induced nuclear expression of YAP and activated the NF‐κB pathway, which finally upregulated the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in macrophages. Moreover, the inhibition of the NF‐κB pathway rescued the reduction of YAP expression under Ti ion exposure. Most importantly, the overexpression of YAP exacerbated the inflammatory response mediated by Ti ions through the NF‐κB pathway. In summary, this study explored the mechanism of Hippo‐YAP/NF‐κB pathway crosstalk involved in the regulation of macrophage behaviors under Ti ion exposure.
Evaluation of 3D PLLA scaffolds coated with nano‐thick collagen as carrier for hepatocytes
Authors: Hendrawan Siufui , Bono Epifania , Hutter Albert , Weber Ursula , Lheman Jennifer , Baer Hans U.
Published: October 2020

Orthotopic liver transplantation is presently the most effectual method for the treatment of end‐stage liver diseases. Though, one major issue is the restricted number of donor organs that are accessible. Hence, liver tissue engineering is under investigation with the goal of restoring liver functions. In this study, we investigated 3D porous scaffolds made of PLLA coated with a nano thick collagen layer (matrices). Primary rat dermal fibroblasts were used in a first study phase to check matrices' cytocompatibility. More than 70% of seeded cells could adhere and remain viable 24 and 48 hours after the seeding. To test the suitability of the matrices for human primary hepatocytes, HepaRG cells were seeded and analyzed for viability, adhesion rate, and functionality such as albumin secretion. About 80% of seeded HepaRG adhered to the scaffolds remaining viable up to 72 hours. Cells were homogeneously distributed in the entire scaffold with albumin secretion increasing with time. Our results indicate that PLLA collagen‐coated matrices allow hepatocytes attachment and distribution throughout the 3D structure, as well as support cell functionality. Such matrices have been applied in our clinical phase II trial. Functional hepatocytes were successfully implanted in patients suffering from liver‐cirrhosis with higher cell numbers and adhesions rate compared to our previous trial with the first matrix type and a general improvement in clinical condition.
Associations of combined genetic and epigenetic scores with muscle size and muscle strength: a pilot study in older women
Authors: He Lingxiao , Khanal Praval , Morse Christopher I. , Williams Alun , Thomis Martine
Published: October 2020

Background

Inter‐individual variance in skeletal muscle is closely related to genetic architecture and epigenetic regulation. Studies have examined genetic and epigenetic relationships with characteristics of ageing muscle separately, while no study has combined both genetic and epigenetic profiles in ageing muscle research. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between combined genetic and methylation scores and skeletal muscle phenotypes in older women.

Methods

Forty‐eight older Caucasian women (aged 65–79 years) were included in this study. Biceps brachii thickness and vastus lateralis anatomical cross‐sectional area (ACSAVL) were measured by ultrasonography. Maximum isometric elbow flexion (MVCEF) and knee extension (MVCKE) torques were measured by a customized dynamometer. The muscle‐driven genetic predisposition score (GPSSNP) was calculated based on seven muscle‐related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). DNA methylation levels of whole blood samples were analysed using Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip arrays. The DNA methylation score was calculated as a weighted sum of methylation levels of sarcopenia‐driven CpG sites (MSSAR) or an overall gene‐wise methylation score (MSSNP, the mean methylation level of CpG sites located in muscle‐related genes). Linear regression models were built to study genetic and epigenetic associations with muscle size and strength. Three models were built with both genetic and methylation scores: (1) MSSAR + GPSSNP, (2) MSSNP + GPSSNP, and (3) gene‐wise combined scores which were calculated as the ratio of the SNP score to the mean methylation level of promoters in the corresponding gene. Additional models with only a genetic or methylation score were also built. All models were adjusted for age and BMI.

Results

MSSARwas negatively associated with ACSAVL, MVCEF, and MVCKEand explained 10.1%, 35.5%, and 40.1% of the variance, respectively. MSSARexplained more variance in these muscular phenotypes than GPSSNP, MSSNP, and models including both genetic and methylation scores. MSSNPand GPSSNPaccounted for less than 8% and 5% of the variance in all muscular phenotypes, respectively. The genotype and methylation level ofCNTFwas positively related to MVCKE(P = 0.03) and explained 12.2% of the variance. The adjustedR2and Akaike information criterion showed that models with only a MSSARperformed the best in explaining inter‐individual variance in muscular phenotypes.

Conclusions

Our results improve the understanding of inter‐individual variance in muscular characteristics of older women and suggest a possible application of a sarcopenia‐driven methylation score to muscle strength estimation in older women while the combination with a genetic score still needs to be further studied.
Importance of “muscle” and “intestine” training before major HPB surgery: A review
Authors: Yokoyama Yukihiro , Nagino Masato , Ebata Tomoki
Published: October 2020

Major hepato‐pancreato‐biliary (HPB) surgery is one of the most invasive abdominal surgeries. Through the experiences of several clinical trials, including those involving patients undergoing major HPB surgery, we have recognized the importance of “muscle” and “intestine” training before surgery. This review article summarizes the results of our clinical trials, specifically focusing on the importance of “muscle” and “intestine”. The patients with low skeletal muscle mass or those with low functional exercise capacity showed a significantly worse postoperative course and poor long‐term survival after surgery for HPB malignancy. The introduction of prehabilitation (preoperative physical and nutritional support) improved nutritional status and functional exercise capacity, even in patients with malignancy. Daily physical activity was correlated with nutritional status before surgery. These results indicated the usefulness of prehabilitation. The intestinal microenvironment, which is extrapolated from the fecal concentrations of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs), showed a significant association with the incidence of surgery‐induced bacterial translocation and postoperative infectious complications (POICs). The use of perioperative synbiotics not only increased the fecal levels of SCFAs but also prevented the incidence of POICs. A recent study also indicated that there are correlations between muscle mass and the intestinal microenvironment. Further investigation is required to determine the best “muscle” and “intestine” training protocol to improve the outcomes of major HPB surgeries.
Private Capital Flows, Real Sector Growth and Institutional Quality in Africa
Authors: Asamoah Michael Effah , Alagidede Imhotep Paul , Adu Frank
Published: October 2020

The article examines the interconnections between capital flows, institutions and real sector growth in Africa. We show that capital flows (foreign direct investment, private debt and equity) have no direct favourable impact on the real sector. Initial assessments show that countries with robust institutional frameworks can benefit significantly from capital flows, as institutions moderate the positive impact of capital flows on real sector growth. Our marginal effect analyses show that the impact of private capital on real sector components is dependent on the type of capital, sector and the percentile level on institutions, in some cases, at the 90th percentile. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Atrial conduction explains the occurrence of the P‐wave dispersion phenomenon, but weakly
Authors: Carmona Puerta Raimundo , Chávez González Elibet , Rabassa López‐Calleja Magda Alina , Lorenzo Martínez Elizabeth , Cruz Elizundia Juan Miguel , Padrón Peña Gustavo , Rodríguez González Fernando
Published: October 2020

Background

P‐wave dispersion (PWD) is believed to be caused by inhomogeneous atrial conduction. This statement, however, is based on limited little solid evidence. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between atrial conduction and PWD by means of invasive electrophysiological studies.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study in 153 patients with accessory pathways and atrioventricular node reentry tachycardia (AVNRT) undergoing an electrophysiological study. Different atrial conduction times were measured and correlated with PWD.

Results

Only the interatrial (P‐DCS) and left intra‐atrial conduction times (ΔDCS‐PCS) showed a significant correlation with PWD, but this correlation was weak. Multivariate linear regression analysis determined that both P‐DCS (β = 0.242; P = .008) and ΔDCS‐PCS (β = 0.295; P < .001) are independent predictors of PWD. Performing the multivariate analysis for arrhythmic substrates, it is observed that only ΔDCS‐PCS continued to be an independent predictor of PWD. Analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curves showed that regardless of the types of arrhythmic substrates, PWD discriminates significantly, but moderately, to patients with P‐DCS and ΔDCS‐PCS ≥75 percentile.

Conclusions

Interatrial and intraleft atrial conduction times were directly and significantly correlated with PWD, but only weakly, and were independent predictors of PWD. In general, PWD correctly discriminates patients with high values in interatrial and intraleft atrial conduction times, but moderately. This is maintained in cases with accessory pathways; however, in patients with AVNRT it only does so for intraleft atrial conduction times. Interatrial and intraleft atrial conduction times weakly explains PWD.
Preparation, characterization and antioxidant activity of astaxanthin esters with different molecular structures
Authors: Yang Lu , Qiao Xing , Liu Jing , Wu Lulu , Cao Yunrui , Xu Jie , Xue Changhu
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Astaxanthin (Asta) is widely used in the nutraceutical and food industry because of its strong antioxidant properties. However, natural Asta mainly exists in the esterified form with various fatty acid chains, making it difficult to understand the particular molecular structure of astaxanthin esters (Asta‐Es) that have better antioxidant capacity. In this study, Asta‐Es with different molecular structures was systematically prepared, and identified by using thin‐layer chromatography (TLC), ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐visible), high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS/MS), and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR). In addition, their antioxidant properties were evaluated by 2,2′‐diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ABTS scavenging activity.

RESULTS

Fourteen Asta‐Es with different molecular structures were systematically synthesized. This study used a simple and efficient method for the separation and purification of astaxanthin monoester (Asta‐ME) and astaxanthin diester (Asta‐DE) with high purity (86%–94%) by silica gel column chromatography. 13‐cis‐Asta‐E and 9‐cis‐Asta‐E were firstly identified from Asta‐E. The DPPH clearance rates and ABTS scavenging rates of Asta‐C4:0, Asta‐C8:0, Asta‐C12:0, and Asta‐C18:0 were relatively close, but the DPPH and ABTS scavenging rates of Asta‐C18:0, Asta‐C18:1, Asta‐C18:2, and Asta‐C22:6 increased gradually. Among all Asta‐Es, Asta‐C22:6/C22:6 showed the highest antioxidant capacity, with the DPPH and ABTS scavenging rates of 77.22 ± 3.29% and 51.84 ± 1.65%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In this study, it was concluded that chemically synthesized Asta‐Es contained cis‐astaxanthin ester and polyunsaturated fatty acid chain increased the antioxidant activity of Asta, showing less effect of the length of fatty acid chain. These results provide useful information for the production and use of highly efficient Asta‐E as functional food and pharmaceutical ingredients. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Inhibition of miR‐181a attenuates sepsis‐induced inflammation and apoptosis by activating Nrf2 and inhibiting NF‐κB pathways via targeting SIRT1
Authors: Wu Zhu , Chen Jie , Zhao Wei , Zhuo Chun‐Hua , Chen Qiong
Published: October 2020

Sepsis is caused by microbial infection with high mortality worldwide, and characterized by multiple organ dysfunction and systemic inflammatory response. Previous study shows that miR‐181a level is increased during sepsis; however, the mechanism is still unknown. Therefore, to identify the role of miR‐181a, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to stimulate mouse peritoneal macrophages. The expressions of miR‐181a and SIRT1 were identified by QRT‐PCR, the levels of SIRT1, Nrf2, p‐P65, Bcl‐2 and Bax were detected by western blotting, the inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α, IL‐6 and IL‐1β were detected by ELISA, and the apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry. Bioinformatics and dual luciferase assay were used to unveil the binding sites and the targeted regulatory relationship of miR‐181a and SIRT1. LPS induced the upregulation of miR‐181a, downregulation of SIRT1 and a strong inflammatory response. In addition, LPS stimulation inhibited the expression of Nrf2 and activated the NF‐κB pathway. Moreover, the inhibition of miR‐181a attenuated inflammatory response and apoptosis during LPS stimulation, which was implemented by up‐regulating the expression of its target SIRT1. More fully, downregulation of SIRT1 by short hairpin interference resulted in a decreased expression of Nrf2, increased expression of p‐P65 and proinflammatory cytokines, and intensive apoptosis. Downregulation of miR‐181a could promote the expression of its target SIRT1, and then, attenuate inflammatory response and apoptosis via Nrf2 and NF‐κB signaling pathways during LPS treatment. miR‐181a can be a potential target of controlling the inflammatory response during sepsis and has important clinical significance for the treatment and rehabilitation of septic patients.
The use of bentonite and organic amendments for remediation of Cd contaminated fields: An environmental perspective
Authors: Pei Penggang , Xu Yingming , Zheng Shunan , Liang Xuefeng , Sun Yuebing , Lin Dasong , Wang Lin
Published: October 2020

A successful technique for remediation of cadmium (Cd) contaminated soil could not only reduce its availability but also improve soil biological function. However, there are few studies that evaluate the efficiency of remediation of Cd‐contaminated soil within a sustainability framework. Therefore, a field study was conducted to investigate the remediation effectiveness and environmental impact of Cd‐contaminated vegetable soils using bentonite (B), bentonite + mushroom residue (BMR1, BMR2), and bentonite + vermicompost (BVC1, BVC2). Soil Cd bioavailability were inhibited after applying of B, BMR and BVC, and the most significant reduction of CaCl2‐ and HCl‐Cd was obtained at BMR2, being 45.5 and 24.9% decreases, respectively, relative to the control groups. Meanwhile, the concentration of Cd in the edible parts of vegetables was reduced by amendments and lettuce and leafy lettuce met the maximum limit of contaminants in vegetables (0.2 mg kg−1) (GB2762‐2017). Combined treatments had greater effects on soil fertility parameters (e.g., higher values of available N, P and K, soil organic matter, and microbial biomass C and N) as well as microbial community composition which were characterized by significant increases in the Shannon and the Simpson indices, and the quantity and abundance of dominant genera. These findings offer evidence that combined amendments could be more efficiently used for the remediation of Cd‐contaminated soils, with the goal of low Cd availability in soil and uptake in the vegetables, and improving soil quality.
Effects of formalin preservation on carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes of seaweeds: A foundation for looking back in time
Authors: Willert Madison S. , France Christine A. M. , Brooks Barrett L. , Baldwin Carole C. , Hay Mark E.
Published: October 2020

Stable isotope analysis of preserved natural‐history specimens from long‐term storage can provide useful data about energy flow and trophic structure in ecosystems of the past. Nitrogen isotope values from primary producers are used as critical food web baselines, while both nitrogen and carbon isotopes expose the presence of sewage contamination and nutrient runoff. Seaweed specimens being prepared for long‐term storage are often fixed in formalin prior to being dried or transferred into a storage liquid, but the effects of this fixative on nitrogen and carbon stable isotope values of marine primary producers have not been investigated. We evaluated the effects of formalin on macroalgal and cyanobacterial stable isotope values. For this purpose, we analyzed δ15N and δ13C values of 41 pairs of formalin‐preserved vs. dried seaweed specimens stored for up to 5 yr. While neither isotope was consistently altered by formalin when all seaweeds were pooled, δ15N values were overall less variable than δ13C values. However, formalin preservation lowered δ13C values in Ochrophyta by 0.2% on average. Neither isotope was affected by duration of formalin preservation. Because formalin‐exposed samples show similar δ15N and δ13C values to dried samples, formalin‐exposed specimens can be used to accurately assess nutrient dynamics and food webs of historic marine ecosystems provided that one has sufficient sample sizes of seaweeds.
Pharmacological Evaluation of Novel Organoiron Dendrimers as Antimicrobial and Anti‐Inflammatory Agents
Authors: Abd‐El‐Aziz Alaa S. , Abdelghani Amani A. , El‐Ghezlani Ebtehal G. , Abou El‐ezz Doaa , Abdel‐Rahman Laila H.
Published: October 2020

The synthesis of a novel and attractive class of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory and antimicrobial organoiron dendrimers attached to the well‐known drug ibuprofen is achieved. The structures of these dendrimers are established by spectroscopic and analytical techniques. The antimicrobial activity of these dendrimers is investigated and tested against five human pathogenic Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, and minimum inhibitory concentrations are reported. Some of these synthesized dendrimers exhibit higher inhibitory activity against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus faecium, and Staphylococcus warneri compare to the reference drugs. As well, the in vitro and in vivo anti‐inflammatory activities of these dendrimers are evaluated. The results of in vivo anti‐inflammatory activity and histopathology of inflamed paws show that all dendrimers display considerable anti‐inflammatory activity; however, second‐generation dendrimer (G2‐D6) shows the best anti‐inflammatory activity, which is more potent than the commercial drug ibuprofen at the same tested dose. Results of the toxicity study reveal that G2‐D6 is the safest drug on biological tissues.
Bound state solutions of Choquard equations with a nonlocal operator
Authors: Guo Lun , Li Qi
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we study the following Choquard equation with Kirchhoff operator

where a ≥ 0, b > 0, α ∈ (0, N),
is the critical exponent respect to Hardy–Littlewood–Sobolev inequality, and
is a given nonnegative function. By using the classical linking theorem and global compactness theorem, we prove that equation (0.1) has at least one bound state solution if
is small. More intriguingly, our result covers a novel feature of Kirchhoff problems, which is the fact that the parameter a can be zero.
Compact 5G millimeter‐wave dual‐band filter with application in filtenna
Authors: Nouri Mahdi , Jafarieh Alireza , Behroozi Hamid , Mallat Nazih Khaddaj , Jamaluddin Mohd Haizal , Aghdam Sajjad Abazari
Published: October 2020

In this article, a dual‐band sixth order double symmetric T‐slot filter is proposed for the 5G communication systems. This filter contains two duplicate square resonators and a T‐shape feedline on the Rogers RT duroid 5880 substrate. Operating at the 28 and 38.5 GHz frequencies from licensed 5G frequency bands and small size make this filter appropriate for different 5G applications. Furthermore, an LC equivalent circuit for the filter has been considered that helps us to have a better sight of this filter. Measurement results show good agreement with simulations. The attenuation on the passband is less than 1 dB. In order to evaluate the filter performance besides other millimeter waves components, a wideband antenna is combined with the filter to form a filtenna. The achieved results show the appropriate performance and well‐matched with other 5G devices.
Technical note: Interpolated Pareto surface similarity metrics for multi‐criteria optimization in radiation therapy
Authors: Jensen P. James , Zhang Jiahan , Wu Q. Jackie
Published: October 2020

Purpose

There is a strong clinical need to evaluate different multi‐criteria optimization (MCO) algorithms, including inverse optimization sampling algorithms and machine learning‐based predictions. This study aims to develop and compare several interpolated Pareto surface similarity metrics.

Materials and methods

The first metric is the root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) evaluated between vertices on the interpolated surfaces, augmented by intra‐simplex sampling of the barycentric coordinates of the surfaces’ simplicial complexes. The second metric is the average projected distance (APD), which evaluates the displacements between the vertices and computes their projections along the mean displacement. The third metric is the average nearest‐point distance (ANPD), which numerically integrates point‐to‐simplex distances over the sampled simplices of the interpolated surfaces. These metrics were compared by their convergence rates, the times required to achieve convergence, and their representation of the underlying surface interpolations. For analysis, several interpolated Pareto surface pairs were constructed abstractly, with one pair from a nasopharyngeal treatment planning case using MCO.

Results

Convergence within 1% is typically achieved at approximately 50 and 80 samples per barycentric dimension for the RMSE and the ANPD, respectively. Calculation requires approximately 1 and 10 ms to achieve convergence for the RMSE and the ANPD in two dimensions, respectively, while the APD always requires < 1 ms. These time costs are much higher in higher dimensions for just the RMSE and ANPD. The APD values more closely approximated the ANPD limits than the RMSE limits.

Conclusion

The ANPD’s formulation and generality make it likely more meaningful than the RMSE and APD for representing the similarity between the underlying interpolated surfaces rather than the sampling points on the surfaces. However, in situations requiring high‐speed evaluations, the APD may be more desirable due to its speed, independence from a subjectively chosen sampling rate, and similarity to the ANPD limits.
Sample size estimation: Current practice and considerations for original investigations in MRI technical development studies
Authors: Hanspach Jannis , Nagel Armin M. , Hensel Bernhard , Uder Michael , Koros Leon , Laun Frederik B.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To investigate and to provide guidance for sample size selection based on the current practice in MR technical development studies in which healthy volunteers are examined.

Methods

All original articles published in Magnetic Resonance in Medicine between 2017 and 2019 were investigated and categorized according to technique, anatomical region, and magnetic field strength. The number of examined healthy volunteers (ie, the sample size) was collected and evaluated, whereas the number of patients was not considered. Papers solely measuring patients, animals, phantoms, specimens, or studies using existing data, for example, from an open databank, or consisting only of theoretical work or simulations were excluded.

Results

The median sample size of the 882 included studies was 6. There were some peaks in the sample size distribution (eg, 1, 5, and 10). In 49.9%, 82.1%, and 95.6% of the studies, the sample size was smaller or equal to 5, 10, and 20, respectively.

Conclusion

We observed a large variance in sample sizes reflecting the variety of studies published in Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. Therefore, it can be concluded that it is current practice to balance the need for statistical power with the demand to minimize experiments involving healthy humans, often by choosing small sample sizes between 1 and 10. Naturally, this observation does not release an investigator from ensuring that sufficient data are acquired to reach statistical conclusions.
Color generation through plasmonic coupled dissimilar nano‐metals using mask free deposition
Authors: Cheng Ka Y. , Ching Suet Y. , Cheah Kok W.
Published: October 2020

The dissimilar nano‐metals were deposited mask free and their plasmonic coupling studied. Coupling between dissimilar nano‐metals can generate a larger red shift in plasmonic resonance when compare to (say) nano‐Ag/Ag coupling of various size. Tunable reflectant color was achieved through plasmonic coupling between nano‐Ag and another nano‐metal. The tunable range is from blue to red; covering the entire optical range. The tunability can be achieved through varying the nano‐metal size and/or through the plasmonic coupling between two dissimilar nano‐metals. The nano‐metals are randomly distributed and packed densely. Hence, the plasmonic coupling effect observed is a collective effect. The distribution of the nano‐particle size, and inter‐particle gap distance were determined. The experimental results show that coupling of nano‐Ag with lighter atom metal such as Mg generates smaller red shift, whereas larger atom metal such as Cr would give larger red shift. The result demonstrates that it is possible to produce reflected color across the optical range using single layer of nano‐metals.
New insight into multilevel local refinement in adaptive isogeometric analysis
Authors: Atri Hamidreza , Shojaee Saeed
Published: October 2020

One of the most appealing techniques in local refinement for isogeometric analysis (IGA) is hierarchical B‐splines which can be improved by resorting to truncation mechanism called truncated hierarchical B‐splines. Although it has a simple concept, it involves implementing the hierarchical definition of shape functions to existing codes. In this contribution, we present a simple method defined by knot vectors of different levels of hierarchical meshes resulted from knot insertion techniques. In fact, the proposed method is a generalization of the classical Bézier extraction with an element viewpoint which enhances the procedure of adaptive finite element analysis in error estimation based on marking of the elements. This results in an adaptive IGA based on multilevel extraction to the hierarchical overlay of functions. The convergence and computational efficiency of the proposed method are demonstrated through benchmark examples.
Plasma cystatin C is a marker of renal glomerular injury in children treated with cisplatin or ifosfamide
Authors: Lambert Marie , White‐Koning Melanie , Alonso Mathieu , Garnier Arnaud , Alphonsa Gwennaelle , Puiseux Chloé , Munzer Caroline , Berthier Joseph , Malard Laurence , Pasquet Marlène , Chatelut Etienne
Published: October 2020

Background

Plasma cystatin C is a potential marker of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and urinary cystatin C has been proposed as a marker of tubular dysfunction.

Procedure

A prospective study (NCT02822404) was conducted to assess the benefit of considering cystatin C plasma and urinary levels to better evaluate cisplatin and/or ifosfamide renal toxicity in children with cancer. Plasma 51Cr‐EDTA clearance as a marker of GFR and urinary markers of tubular toxicity were monitored in 40 children treated by cisplatin and/or ifosfamide. Several equations previously proposed to estimate GFR, with or without inclusion of plasma cystatin C level, were compared. A population pharmacokinetic approach was also used to analyze plasma 51Cr‐EDTA data, and evaluate the relationship between patient covariates (including plasma cystatin C level) and GFR during the course of chemotherapy treatment.

Results

Equations including plasma cystatin C described GFR changes during chemotherapy better than those without this variable. An equation based on plasma cystatin C, serum creatinine, and body weight enabled us to accurately describe the evolution of GFR during chemotherapy. The urinary cystatin C/creatinine ratio was compared between children with or without tubular toxicity, according to a standard assessment of tubular dysfunction. However, although the urinary cystatin C/creatinine ratio was increased in children with tubular toxicity, this marker does not provide additional information to the well‐known markers of tubulopathy.

Conclusions

Monitoring of plasma cystatin C may be substituted to radionucleide glomerular exploration in children treated by cisplatin and/or ifosfamide.
Hepatic adverse drug reactions in Malaysia: An 18‐year review of the national centralized reporting system
Authors: Lee Fei Yee , Wong Hin‐Seng , Chan Huan‐Keat , Mohamed Ali Norleen , Abu Hassan Muhammad Radzi , Omar Haniza , Abdul Mutalib Noor Aliza
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To determine the incidence, demographic profile, background of reporters, causative agents, severity and clinical outcomes of hepatic adverse drug reaction (ADR) reports in Malaysia using the national ADR reporting database.

Methods

The ADR reports recorded between 2000 and 2017 were retrospectively analysed to identify hepatic ADR reports. The trend and characteristics of hepatic ADR cases were described. Multivariate disproportionality analysis of the causative agents was performed to generate signals of hepatic ADRs.

Results

A total of 2090 hepatic ADRs (1.77% of all ADRs) were reported with mortality rate of 12.7% among cases with known clinical outcomes. The incidence of hepatic ADR reporting in Malaysia increased significantly over 18 years from 0.26 to 9.45 per million population (P < .001). Antituberculosis drugs (n = 268, 12.82%) was the most common suspected class of causative agents with a reporting odds ratio (ROR) and 95% CI of 8.39 (7.26‐9.70), followed by traditional/complementary medicines or herbal/dietary supplements (TCM/HDS) (n = 235, 11.24%, ROR 3.26 [2.84‐3.75]), systemic antibacterials (n = 159, 7.61%, ROR 2.65 [2.25‐3.13]), lipid modifying agents (n = 142, 6.79%, ROR 2.21 [1.86‐2.63]) and amiodarone (n = 137, 6.56%, ROR 35.25 [28.40‐43.75]). Most (72.9%) of the TCM/HDS were not registered with the authorities.

Conclusions

Hepatic ADR cases have increased significantly in Malaysia, with antituberculosis drugs, systemic antibacterials, and TCM/HDS being the most common causative agents reported. Most TCM/HDS reported to be associated with hepatic ADR were not registered with the authorities.
Effect of tacticity of poly(methyl methacrylate) on interfacial region with silica in polymer nanocomposite
Authors: Matsuura Kazuki , Kuboyama Keiichi , Ougizawa Toshiaki
Published: October 2020

The effect of tacticity on the interfacial region between poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and silica in a PMMA/silica nanocomposite was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The glass transition temperature (Tg) values of the syndiotactic (st‐) and atactic (at‐) PMMA/silica nanocomposites are higher than those of the neat PMMA. Conversely, the Tg of the isotactic (it‐) PMMA/silica nanocomposite is slightly higher than that of the neat it‐PMMA. DSC and XRD results suggest that the restriction of the PMMA chain mobility in the silica nanoparticle interfacial region heightens as the syndiotactic content increases. FT‐IR results show that this phenomenon is caused by the interaction between the carbonyl group of PMMA and the silanol group on the silicon dioxide surface. Therefore, it can be concluded that the syndiotactic‐rich PMMA has a significantly different molecular mobility from that of the neat PMMA in the interfacial region with silica nanoparticle surface than isotactic‐rich PMMA.
Asthma control and psychological health in pediatric severe asthma
Authors: Griffiths Delaney , Giancola Lauren M. , Welsh Kelly , MacGlashing Kristen , Thayer Christine , Gunnlaugsson Sigfus , Stamatiadis Natalie P. , Sierra Gabriella C. , Hammond Adam , Greco Kimberly F. , Simoneau Tregony , Baxi Sachin N. , Gaffin Jonathan M.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Psychological comorbidities have been associated with asthma in adults and children, but have not been studied in a population of children with severe asthma. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that symptoms of anxiety or depression are highly prevalent in pediatric severe asthma and negatively effects asthma control.

Methods

Longitudinal assessments of anxiety or depression symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire‐4 [PHQ‐4]), asthma control (Asthma Control Test [ACT]), and lung function were performed in a single‐center pediatric severe asthma clinic. Participant data were collected during routine clinical care. Primary outcomes were ACT and forced expiratory volume in 1 s per forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC).

Results

Among 43 subjects (with total 93 observations), 58.1% reported at least one anxious or depressive symptom and 18.6% had a PHQ‐4 more than 2, the threshold for an abnormal test result. After adjusting for age, sex, race, and asthma medication step, there was a significant reduction in ACT for girls with PHQ‐4 more than 2 (adjusted mean [SE] ACT for PHQ‐4 > 2: 13.64 [0.59], ACT for PHQ‐4 ≤ 2: 20.64 [1.25], p = .02) but not boys. Moreover, there was a significant differential effect of mental health impairment for girls than boys. ACT for girls with PHQ more than 2: 13.64 (0.59) compared with boys with PHQ‐4 more than 2: 17.82 (0.95), adjusted mean difference ACT by sex = 4.18 points; 95% confidence interval, 0.63–7.73; p = .033. In adjusted models, there was no association between PHQ‐4 more than 2 and FEV1/FVC.

Conclusions

Symptoms of anxiety and depression are common. In children with severe asthma, a PHQ‐4 score more than 2 is associated with worse asthma symptom control in girls, but not boys.
Ergonomic design of display systems in control rooms of complex systems in Serbia
Authors: Grozdanovic Miroljub , Bijelic Bojan
Published: October 2020

This paper presents an ergonomic design of the display system in control rooms of four complex systems in Serbia, railway, mining, electric power, and soybean flakes production. Research of display panels analyses the visual information coding, characters' visual angles, and existing standards and recommendation in the period when this research took place. Operators' visual angles, the distance between the operator's eyes and display panels, the size of visual signs, comparative analysis of display panel and video display units used in the control room are given. The main goal of this paper is to apply the result obtained in designing a new control room in Serbia since the adequate design of display systems in control rooms has a significant impact on the efficiency and functionality of the operator's work in control centers.
Study of Dislocations in Homoepitaxially and Heteroepitaxially Grown AlN Layers
Authors: Goto Ken , Takekawa Nao , Nagashima Toru , Yamamoto Reo , Pozina Galia , Dalmau Rafael , Schlesser Raoul , Collazo Ramón , Monemar Bo , Sitar Zlatko , Boćkowski Michał , Kumagai Yoshinao
Published: October 2020

Dislocation densities in AlN layers grown on c‐plane sapphire and physical vapor transport‐grown AlN (PVT‐AlN) (0001) substrates, by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) and hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE), respectively, are evaluated from the density of etch pits formed in sodium hydroxide (NaOH)/potassium hydroxide (KOH) eutectic heated to 450 °C. In the heteroepitaxial layers grown by MOVPE on the sapphire substrates, etch pits with different sizes are formed. Cross‐sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations reveal that the large, medium, and small pits, with densities of 1.4 × 106, 2.6 × 107, and 6.9 × 109 cm−2, respectively, correspond to screw, mixed, and edge dislocations, respectively. In contrast, in the homoepitaxial layers grown by HVPE on the PVT‐AlN substrates, only one kind of etch pit with uniform size corresponding to the edge dislocations is formed with a density of 103–104 cm−2. Cross‐sectional TEM observation confirms that the edge dislocations in the homoepitaxial layer propagate from the substrate through the interface, which indicates that the dislocation density does not increase during homoepitaxial growth by HVPE. The HVPE‐AlN homoepitaxial layers grown on the PVT‐AlN substrates are found to have very low dislocation density.