bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum angiogenin as a potential biomarker for early detection of colorectal adenomas and colorectal cancer
Authors: Yu Dongdong , Sun Jun , Weng Yu , Luo Liang , Sheng Jinghao , Xu Zhengping
Published: March 2021

Although colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common causes of cancer mortality, early-stage detection dramatically improves survival rate. To explore the feasibility of serum angiogenin (ANG) as a biomarker for early detection of colorectal neoplasia, we collected serum samples from 781 participants, including 369 patients with CRC, 133 with colorectal adenoma and 279 healthy controls. We examined the levels of serum ANG by ELISA, calculated the diagnostic accuracy of ANG by plotted receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs), and compared it with those obtained by carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9). We also analyzed the relationship between serum ANG level and TNM stage in CRC patients. The results showed that ANG serum levels were significantly elevated in patients with colorectal adenomas and CRC (P < 0.01). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for ANG in distinguishing CRC patients from healthy controls was 0.740 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.705–0.744], comparable to that of CEA (0.770; 95% CI: 0.735–0.802; P = 0.26) but significantly higher than that of CA19-9 (0.636; 95% CI: 0.598–0.674, P < 0.01), with much higher sensitivity (67.75%) than CEA (36.86%) or CA19-9 (12.20%). We observed no significant differences in ANG serum levels among CRCs at different TNM stages. Furthermore, sensitivity and specificity of ANG for distinguishing colorectal adenomas patients from healthy controls were 66.20% and 64.90%, respectively. ANG has the potential to serve as a serum biomarker for early detection of colorectal neoplasia.
Demonstrating the effect of SHP2 inhibitor on cervical squamous cell carcinoma from the perspective of ZAP70
Authors: Gong Ming , Liu Peng , He Tianyu , Zhang Miao , Li Guang
Published: March 2021

SHP2, encoded by the PTPN11 gene, plays an important role in regulating immune cell functions in tumor microenvironment. Several SHP2 inhibitors have entered the clinical trial stage, but cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) has not been included in the indications. In Tlymphocytes, SHP2 can promote the dephosphorylation of ZAP70 kinase in the T cell receptor signaling complex after recruitment to the PD-1 cytoplasmic tail. In this study, we used bioinformatics tools to confirm that ZAP70 has a widespread impact on the immunity of CSCC, which is closely related to the survival of CSCC. The effect of ZAP70 on the survival of cervical cancer may not depend on the structure or amplification, but on the enhancement of function. And we identified ZAP70 and PTPN11 protein–protein interactions. SHP2 inhibitor is worth to be studied in the treatment of CSCC.
Anorectic interaction and safety of 5-hydroxytryptophan/carbidopa plus phentermine or diethylpropion in rat
Authors: Limón-Bernal Ernesto , Roa-Coria José E. , Zúñiga-Romero Ángel , Huerta-Cruz Juan C. , Ruíz-Velasco Irma R.C. , Flores-Murrieta Francisco J. , Lara-Padilla Eleazar , Reyes-García Juan G. , Rocha-González Héctor I.
Published: March 2021

Drug combinations are being studied as potential therapies to increase the efficacy or improve the safety profile of weight loss medications. This study was designed to determine the anorectic interaction and safety profile of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)/carbidopa + diethylpropion and 5-HTP/carbidopa + phentermine combinations in rats. The anorectic effect of individual drugs or in combination was evaluated by the sweetened milk test. Isobologram and interaction index were employed to determine the anorectic interaction between 5-HTP/carbidopa and diethylpropion or phentermine. Plasma serotonin (5-HT) was measured by ELISA. Safety of repeated doses of both combinations in rats was evaluated using the tail sphygmomanometer, cardiac ultrasound, hematic biometry and blood chemistry. A single oral 5-HTP, diethylpropion or phentermine dose increased the anorectic effect, in a dose-dependent fashion, in 12 h-fasted rats. A dose of carbidopa at 30 mg/kg reduced the 5-HTP-induced plasmatic serotonin concentration and augmented the 5-HTP-induced anorectic effect. Isobologram and interaction index indicated a potentiation interaction between 5-HTP/30 mg/kg carbidopa + diethylpropion and 5-HTP/30 mg/kg carbidopa + phentermine. Chronic administration of experimental ED40 of 5-HTP/30 mg/kg carbidopa + phentermine, but not 5-HTP/30 mg/kg carbidopa + diethylpropion, increased the mitral valve leaflets area. Moreover, there were no other significant changes in cardiovascular, hematic or blood parameters. Both combinations induced around 20% body weight loss after 3 months of oral administration. Results suggest that 5-HTP/30 mg/kg carbidopa potentiates the anorectic effect of diethylpropion and phentermine with an acceptable safety profile, but further clinical studies are necessary to establish their therapeutic potential in the obesity treatment.
Acquisition and Interpretation of Digital Information in Forensic Assessments
Authors: Burton Barbara , Drogin Eric Y.
Published: March 2021

Despite the now ubiquitous presence of technology in everyday life, there is little written on the subject of personal digital data as it pertains to forensic mental health evaluations. Ethical concerns and limited consensus guidance on this issue have previously made it challenging to use this information in a responsible way. This Perspectives article elaborates on the different types of personal data that exist and the practical aspects of acquiring such information, including data location and legal considerations. Incorporation of personal digital information into the forensic assessment as a form of collateral information is discussed, along with the current state of the literature on technology use and its relationship to psychopathology and risk. Given the important role of technology in the life of the modern individual, deeper research into this topic will be necessary in the immediate future to establish practice standards for the safe and ethical use of digital information in both forensic and non-forensic mental health assessments.
New Approach to the Surveillance of Pediatric Infectious Diseases From Ambulatory Pediatricians in the Digital Era
Authors: Cohen Robert , Béchet Stéphane , Gelbert Nathalie , Frandji Bruno , Vie Le Sage François , Thiebault Georges , Kochert Fabienne , Cahn-Sellem Fabienne , Werner Andreas , Ouldali Naim , Levy Corinne
Published: March 2021

Background:

Many ambulatory networks in several countries have established syndromic surveillance systems to detect outbreaks of different illnesses. Here, we describe a new Pediatric and Ambulatory Research in Infectious diseases network that combined automated data extraction from the computers of primary care pediatricians.

Methods:

Pediatricians who used the same software, AxiSanté 5-Infansoft for electronic medical records were specially trained in infectious diseases, encouraged to comply with French treatments’ recommendations, use of point-of-care tests and vaccination guidelines. Infectious disease diagnoses in children <16 years old in the records triggered automatic data extraction of complete records. A quality control process and external validation were developed.

Results:

From September 2017 to February 2020, 107 pediatricians enrolled 57,806 children (mean age 2.9 ± 2.6 years at diagnosis) with at least one infectious disease diagnosis among those followed by the network. Among the 118,193 diagnoses, the most frequent were acute otitis media (n = 44,924, 38.0%), tonsillopharyngitis (n = 13,334, 11.3%), gastroenteritis (n = 12,367, 10.5%), influenza (n = 11,062, 9.4%), bronchiolitis (n = 10,531, 8.9%), enteroviral infections (n = 8474, 7.2%) and chickenpox (n = 6857, 5.8%). A rapid diagnostic test was performed in 84.7% of cases of tonsillopharyngitis and was positive in 44%. The antibiotic recommendations from French guidelines were strictly followed: amoxicillin was the most prescribed antibiotic and less than 10% of presumed viral infections were treated.

Conclusions:

This “tailor-made” network set up with quality controls and external validation represents a new approach to the surveillance of pediatric infectious diseases in the digital era and could highly optimize pediatric practices.
Impact of Simultaneous Pancreas-kidney Transplantation on Cardiovascular Risk in Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Montagud-Marrahi Enrique , Molina-Andújar Alicia , Pané Adriana , Ruiz Sabina , Amor Antonio J. , Esmatjes Enric , Ferrer Joana , Banon-Maneus Elisenda , Hermida Evelyn , Musquera Mireia , Fondevila Constantino , Diekmann Fritz , Ventura-Aguiar Pedro
Published: March 2021

Background.

Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of death in patients with type 1 diabetes. Of the available risk predictors for this population, the Steno Type 1 Risk Engine (STENO T1) is the only one that includes kidney function as a risk factor, which is a well-described independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Methods.

We explore how simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPKT) modifies the predicted cardiovascular risk by the STENO T1 through a retrospective study including recipients of a first SPKT between 2000 and 2016.

Results.

Two hundred sixty-eight SPKT recipients with a mean age of 40 y old and a median follow-up of 10 y were included. Before transplantation, the expected incidence of cardiovascular events (CVEs) at 5 and 10 y according to STENO T1 would have been 31% and 50%, respectively, contrasting with an actual incidence of 9.3% and 16% for the same timepoints, respectively (P < 0.05). These differences were attenuated when STENO T1 was recalculated assuming 12th-mo glomerular filtration rate (at 5 and 10 y predicted CVE incidence was 10.5% and 19.4%, respectively). Early pancreas graft failure (hazard ratio [HR] 3.00, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-7.88; P = 0.02) was an independent risk factor for post-SPKT CVE, alongside kidney graft failure (HR 2.90, 95% CI, 1.53-5.48; P = 0.001), and diabetes duration (HR 1.04, 95% CI, 1.00-1.09, P = 0.04).

Conclusions.

SPKT decreases in more than two-thirds of the predicted cardiovascular risk by the STENO T1. A functioning pancreas graft further reduces CVE risk, independently of kidney graft function.
Effect of wall type, delayed mortality and mosquito age on the residual efficacy of a clothianidin-based indoor residual spray formulation (SumiShield™ 50WG) in southern Mozambique
Authors: Marti-Soler Helena , Maquina Mara , Opiyo Mercy , Alafo Celso , Sherrard-Smith Ellie , Malheia Arlindo , Cuamba Nelson , Sacoor Charfudin , Rabinovich Regina , Aide Pedro , Saúte Francisco , Paaijmans Krijn
Published: March 2021

Background

Indoor residual spraying (IRS) is one of the main malaria vector control strategies in Mozambique alongside the distribution of insecticide treated nets. As part of the national insecticide resistance management strategy, Mozambique introduced SumiShield™ 50WG, a third generation IRS product, in 2018. Its residual efficacy was assessed in southern Mozambique during the 2018-2019 malaria season.

Methods

Two different wall surfaces, cement and mud-plastered surfaces, daily mosquito mortality up to 120 hours post-exposure, and older mosquitoes (13-26d old) were included in standard WHO (World Health Organization) cone bioassay tests. Lethal times (LT) 90, LT50 and LT10 were estimated using Bayesian models.

Results

Mortality 24h post exposure was consistently below 80%, the current WHO threshold value for effective IRS, in both young and old mosquitoes, regardless of wall surface type. Considering delayed mortality, residual efficacies (mosquito mortality equal or greater than 80%) ranged from 1 to ≥12 months, with the duration depending on mortality time post exposure, wall type and mosquito age. Looking at mortality 72h after exposure, residual efficacy was between 6 and 9 months, depending on wall type and mosquito age. Mortality of older mosquitoes was significantly higher on mud-surfaces compared to cemented-surfaces 24h post exposure, but this difference was not significant for the delayed mortalities. The LT50and LT10(i.e. 90% of the mosquitoes survive exposure to the insecticides) values were consistently higher for older mosquitoes using the 24h post-exposure observations and ranged from 0.2 to 5.7 months and 0.2 to 7.2 months for LT50 and LT10, respectively.

Conclusions

The present study highlights the need for assessing mosquito mortality beyond the currently recommended 24h post exposure. Failure to do so may lead to underestimation of the residual efficacy of IRS products, as delayed mortality will lead to a further reduction in mosquito vector populations and potentially negatively impact disease transmission. Monitoring residual efficacy on relevant wall surfaces, including old mosquitoes that are ultimately responsible for malaria transmission, and assessing delayed mortalities are critical to provide accurate and actionable data to guide vector control programmes.
A comparison between CFD and thermal-structural analysis of structural steel members subjected to fire
Authors: Alasiri Muhannad R. , Mahamid Mustafa
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Standard fire resistance curves such as ASTM E119 have been used for so long in structural fire practice. The issue with use of these curves that they do not represent real fire scenarios. As a result, the alternatives have been to either conduct experiments or find other tools to represent a real fire scenario. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to understand the temperature effects resulted from a designed fire on steel beams and whether the standard fire curves represent a designed fire scenario.

Design/methodology/approach

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models were developed to simulate a designed fire scenario and to understand the structural responses on the beams under elevated temperatures. Consequently, the results obtained from the CFD models were compared with the results of three-dimensional (3D) non-linear finite element (FE) models developed by other researchers. The developed FE models were executed using a standard fire curve (ASTM E119). A parametric study including two case studies was conducted.

Findings

Results obtained from performing this study showed the importance of considering fire parameters such as fuel type and flame height during the thermal analysis compared to the standard fire curves, and this might lead to a non-conservative design as compared to the designed fire scenario. The studied cases showed that the steel beams experienced more degradation in their fire resistance at higher load levels under designed fires. Additionally, the models used the standard fire curves underestimated the temperatures at the early stages.

Originality/value

This paper shows results obtained by performing a comparison study of models used ASTM E119 curve and a designed fire scenario. The value of this study is to show the variability of using different fire scenarios; thus, more studies are required to see how temperature history curves can be used to represent real fire scenarios.
Innovation orientation and its relationship with business performance: moderating role of firm size
Authors: Farooq Rayees , Vij Sandeep , Kaur Jaspreet
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The study aims to test the relationship between innovation orientation (INO) and business performance. It also explores the moderating effect of firm size on the relationship between INO and business performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A purposive sample of 278 firms (manufacturing and service) was taken from the National Capital Region and the Punjab state of India. The survey questionnaire was administered to two to three managerial-level employees from each of the 278 firms. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to validate the INO and business performance scales. The hypotheses were tested using multi-group moderation analysis and structural equation modeling.

Findings

The study shows that INO has a significant positive effect on business performance. The results have indicated that firm size (based on the number of employees) moderates the relationship between INO and business performance. However, firm size (based on investment) does not moderate the relationship between INO and business performance.

Originality/value

The study is an attempt to synthesize the fragmented results testing innovation–performance relationship using firm size as a moderator on the relationship between INO and business performance and provides insights for both academicians and practitioners.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma in a kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Traipipitsiriwat Wasinee , Songsomboon Chayanon , Junhasavasdikul Detajin , Boonsarngsuk Viboon , Klaisuban Wipawi
Published: March 2021

Post‐transplantation malignancy is one of the most common complication‐related mortality in transplant recipients. Here, we report the case of a kidney transplant patient for 2 years with malignant pleural effusion that was subsequently diagnosed as malignant pleural mesothelioma.
Comparison of three different dose regimens of methylprednisolone as initial therapy for pemphigus vulgaris of moderate severity: A single‐center retrospective study from Turkey
Authors: Polat Ekinci Algün , Kiliç Sayar Sıla , Babuna Kobaner Goncagül , Küçükoğlu Rıfkiye
Published: March 2021

Background

Currently, no consensus exists on the dosing regimen of corticosteroids in relation to disease severity in pemphigus vulgaris.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of three initial dose regimens of methylprednisolone in the treatment of moderate pemphigus.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed the data of 46 patients with moderate pemphigus vulgaris, who initially received either low (0.60–0.80 mg/kg/day), moderate (0.81–1.20 mg/kg/day) or high (1.21–2.0 mg/kg/day) doses of methylprednisolone.

Results

The median time to disease control and hospital stay was shortest in the high‐dose group (8.5 days and 27.5 days, respectively). The low‐dose group had the highest rate of adjuvant therapy (88.8%, P = 0.035). Cumulative methylprednisolone doses and corticosteroid‐related adverse events were similar in the moderate‐ and high‐dose groups. The initial methylprednisolone dose showed a significant inverse correlation with time to disease control (r = −0.319, P = 0.031) and a weak inverse correlation with length of hospital stay (r = −0.282, P = 0.058).

Limitations

Retrospective design and small patient size are major limitations.

Conclusion

In the treatment of moderate pemphigus vulgaris, high initial doses of corticosteroid seem to provide early disease control and shortened hospital stay without notable increases in cumulative corticosteroid doses. This treatment strategy may lower the risk for nosocomial infections and reduce the economic burden of pemphigus.
Prolactin modifies the in vitro LPS‐induced chemotactic capabilities in human fetal membranes at the term of gestation
Authors: Núñez‐Sánchez Estefanía , Flores‐Espinosa María Del Pilar , Mancilla‐Herrera Ismael , González Leticia , Cisneros José , Olmos‐Ortiz Andrea , Quesada‐Reyna Braulio , Granados‐Cepeda Martha , Zaga‐Clavellina Veronica
Published: March 2021

Problem

Immune responses of fetal membranes involve the production of chemoattractant mediators causing infiltration of maternal and fetal leukocytes, intrauterine inflammation and potentially the disruption of maternal‐fetal tolerance. Prolactin (PRL) has deep immunoregulatory effects in the fetal‐maternal interface. We aimed to test the in vitro PRL effect upon chemotactic capacities of human fetal membranes.

Method of Study

Fetal membranes and umbilical cord blood were collected from healthy non‐laboring caesarean deliveries at term. Fetal membranes were cultured in Transwell® frames to mimic the barrier function between choriodecidual and amniotic sides. Tissues were treated with PRL, Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), or both simultaneously. Then, RANTES, MCP‐1, MIP‐1α, IP‐10, and PECAM‐1 were quantified in a conditioned medium by choriodecidual or amniotic sides. The chemotaxis of subsets of migrating mononuclear cells from umbilical cord blood was evaluated in a Boyden Chamber in response to the conditioned medium by both sides.

Results

Lipopolysaccharide stimulates the production of RANTES, MCP‐1, MIP‐1α, and PECAM‐1 in choriodecidua, while MIP‐1α and PECAM‐1 only increase in amnion. PRL decrease RANTES, MCP‐1, and MIP‐1 only in choriodecidua, but PECAM‐1 was decreased mainly in amnion. The leukocyte migration was regulated significantly in response to the conditioned medium by the amnion, increase in the conditioned medium after LPS treatment, contrary with, the leukocyte migration decreased in a significant manner in response to conditioned medium after PRL and LPS‐PRL co‐treatment. Finally, T cells were the most responsive subset of cells.

Conclusions

Prolactin modified in a tissue‐specific manner the chemotactic factor and the leukocyte migration differentially in fetal membranes.
A 3′ tRNA‐derived fragment produced by tRNALeuAAG and tRNALeuTAG is associated with poor prognosis in B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia, independently of classical prognostic factors
Authors: Katsaraki Katerina , Adamopoulos Panagiotis G. , Papageorgiou Sotirios G. , Pappa Vasiliki , Scorilas Andreas , Kontos Christos K.
Published: March 2021

Objective

3′ tRNA‐derived fragments (3′ tRFs) are important epigenetic regulators in normal and pathological conditions. In this study, we aimed to explore the potential value of a 3′ tRF as a prognostic and/or screening biomarker for B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B‐CLL).

Methods

Publicly available next‐generation sequencing data from 20 B‐CLL cases were analyzed, followed by prediction of targets of the most abundantly and ubiquitously expressed 3′ tRFs, leading to selection of tRF‐LeuAAG/TAG. PBMCs were isolated from blood samples of 91 B‐CLL patients and 43 non‐leukemic donors, followed by total RNA extraction, in‐vitro polyadenylation, and first‐strand cDNA synthesis. Next, a real‐time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay was developed for the accurate quantification of tRF‐LeuAAG/TAG and applied in all samples, prior to biostatistical analysis.

Results

High tRF‐LeuAAG/TAG levels are associated with inferior overall survival (OS) of B‐CLL patients. The unfavorable significance of tRF‐LeuAAG/TAG was independent of established prognostic factors in B‐CLL. Stratified Kaplan‐Meier OS analysis uncovered the unfavorable prognostic role of high tRF‐LeuAAG/TAG levels for patients in Binet A or Rai I stage, negative CD38 expression, mutated, or unmutated IGHV genomic locus.

Conclusion

Our approach revealed the independent prognostic value of a particular 3′ tRF, derived from tRNALeuAAG and tRNALeuTAG (tRF‐LeuAAG/TAG) in B‐CLL.
Biological implications of decapping: beyond bulk mRNA decay
Authors: Borbolis Fivos , Syntichaki Popi
Published: March 2021

It is well established that mRNA steady‐state levels do not directly correlate with transcription rate. This is attributed to the multiple post‐transcriptional mechanisms, which control both mRNA turnover and translation within eukaryotic cells. One such mechanism is the removal of the 5’ end cap structure of RNAs (decapping). This 5’ cap plays a fundamental role in cellular functions related to mRNA processing, transport, translation, quality control, and decay, while its chemical modifications influence the fate of cytoplasmic mRNAs. Decapping is a highly controlled process, performed by multiple decapping enzymes, and regulated by complex cellular networks. In this review, we provide an updated synopsis of 5’ end modifications and functions, and give an overview of mRNA decapping enzymes, presenting their enzymatic properties. Focusing on DCP2 decapping enzyme, a major component on the 5’‐3’ mRNA decay pathway, we describe cis‐elements and trans‐acting factors that affect its activity, substrate specificity, and cellular localization. Finally, we discuss current knowledge on the biological functions of mRNA decapping and decay factors, highlighting the major questions that remain to be addressed.
Patients' experiences of behaviour change interventions delivered by general practitioners during routine consultations: A nationally representative survey
Authors: Keyworth Chris , Epton Tracy , Goldthorpe Joanna , Calam Rachel , Armitage Christopher J.
Published: March 2021

Background

Consistent with the ‘Making Every Contact Count’ UK public health policy, general practitioners (GPs) are expected to provide patients with behaviour change interventions opportunistically. However, there is a belief widely held among GPs that patients neither want or need such interventions. We aimed to understand the following: (a) the characteristics of people attending GP appointments, (b) patients' needs for health behaviour change, (c) perceptions of appropriateness and helpfulness of interventions, and (d) factors associated with recall of receipt of interventions.

Methods

Cross‐sectional nationally representative online survey of UK adults who had attended GP clinics in the preceding four weeks (n = 3028). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression.

Results

94.5% (n = 2862) of patients breached at least one health behaviour guideline, and 55.1% reported never having had a conversation with their GP about health behaviours. The majority of patients perceived intervention as appropriate (range 84.2%‐87.4% across behaviours) and helpful (range 82.8%‐85.9% across behaviours). Being male (OR = 1.412, 95% CI 1.217, 1.639), having a long‐term condition (OR = 1.514, 95% CI 1.287, 1.782) and a higher number of repeat GP visits (OR = 1.016, 95% CI 1.010, 1.023) were among factors associated with recall of receipt of interventions.

Conclusions

Patients perceived behaviour change intervention during routine GP consultations as appropriate and helpful, yet there are variations in the likelihood of receiving interventions according to sociodemographic factors. GPs could adopt a more proactive approach to behaviour change in patient consultations with the broad approval of patients.

Patient or public contribution

The questionnaire was piloted among a convenience sample prior to distribution.
Optimizing the formulation for reduced‐calorie and antioxidant‐rich sapodilla‐based spread using hybrid computational techniques and fuzzy analysis of sensory data
Authors: Shaikh Anas Ejaz Yasmeen , Chakraborty Snehasis
Published: March 2021

Formulation of reduced‐calorie, antioxidant‐enriched sapodilla‐based spread was developed using rotatable central composite design of factors/ingredient proportions (mass ratio of sapodilla pulp to grape juice, pectin, and citric acid) for responses (total soluble solids, moisture, phenolics, antioxidant capacity, and firmness). Response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) were combined with method of steepest ascent (SA) and genetic algorithms (GA) for optimization, leading to hybrid techniques: RSM‐SA, RSM‐GA, and ANN‐GA. RSM modeling proved statistically more efficient than ANN modeling. Fuzzy logic analysis of RSM‐SA, RSM‐GA, and control (sapodilla spread without grape juice) samples revealed RSM‐SA (sapodilla to grape ratio = 1.14; pectin 0.58 g/100 g; citric acid 0.21 g/100 g with TSS of 29 °Bx, 65% moisture; 11.44 g GAE kg−1phenolics, 83.2 mg GAE kg−1antioxidant capacity, and firmness of 47.3 N) had highest sensory acceptability. Its total sugars and antioxidant activity were 0.88 and 1.5 times those of control sample.

Practical Applications

Food products are conventionally formulated using the cook‐and‐look approach. With the rising consumer awareness regarding healthy foods, it has become essential for food industries to develop food formulations with enhanced nutritional value and quality attributes. The use of computational models helps in studying the effects of ingredients on the characteristics of food products. Further, such models can be used to determine the combination of ingredients that maximize the nutritional value and quality of the food product. Such a systematic approach in formulating food products helps in saving time, resources, and efforts. In this study, a reduced‐calorie, antioxidant‐rich sapodilla‐based spread has been formulated.
How predictive learning influences choice: Evidence for a GPCR‐based memory process necessary for Pavlovian‐instrumental transfer
Authors: Laurent Vincent , Balleine Bernard W.
Published: March 2021

Predictive learning endows stimuli with the capacity to signal both the sensory‐specific and general motivational properties of their associated rewards or outcomes. These two signals can be distinguished behaviorally by their influence on the selection and performance of instrumental actions, respectively. This review focuses on how sensory‐specific predictive learning guides choice between actions that earn otherwise equally desirable outcomes. We describe evidence that outcome‐specific predictive learning is encoded in the basolateral amygdala and drives the accumulation of delta‐opioid receptors on the surface of cholinergic interneurons located in the nucleus accumbens shell. This accumulation constitutes a novel form of cellular memory, not for outcome‐specific predictive learning per se but for the selection of, and choice between, future instrumental actions. We describe recent evidence regarding the cascade of events necessary for the formation and expression of this cellular memory and point to open questions for future research into this process. Beyond these mechanistic considerations, the discovery of this new form of memory is consistent with recent evidence suggesting that intracellular rather than synaptic changes can mediate learning‐related plasticity to modify brain circuitry to prepare for future significant events.

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Focal chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy: Onset, course, and distinct features
Authors: Benoit Charline , Svahn Juliette , Debs Rabab , Vandendries Christophe , Lenglet Timothée , Zyss Julie , Maisonobe Thierry , Viala Karine
Published: March 2021

Focal chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is defined as involving the brachial or lumbosacral plexus, or one or more peripheral nerves in one upper or one lower limb (monomelic distribution). However, other auto‐immune neuropathies such as Lewis‐Sumner syndrome (LSS) and multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) can also have a focal onset. From a retrospective cohort of 30 focal CIDP patients with a monomelic onset dating back at least 2 years, we distinguished patients with plexus involvement (focal demyelinating plexus neuropathy [F‐PN], n = 18) from those with sensory or sensorimotor (F‐SMN, n = 7), or purely motor (F‐MN, n = 5) impairment located in one or several peripheral nerves. Few (39%) F‐PN patients had motor nerve conduction abnormalities, but the majority showed proximal conduction abnormalities in somatosensory evoked potentials (80%), and all had focal hypertrophy and/or increased short tau inversion recovery image signal intensity on plexus MRI. Impairment remained monomelic in most (94%) F‐PN patients, whereas abnormalities developed in other limbs in 57% of F‐SMN, and 40% of F‐MN patients (P = .015). The prognosis of F‐PN patients was significantly better: none had an ONLS score > 2 at the final follow‐up visit, vs 43% of F‐SMN patients and 40% of F‐MN patients (P = .026). Our findings from a large cohort of focal CIDP patients confirm the existence of different entities that are typically categorized under this one term: on the one hand, patients with a focal plexus neuropathy and on the other, patients with monomelic sensori‐motor or motor involvement of peripheral nerves. These two last subgroups appeared to be more likely to evolve to LSS or MMN phenotype, when F‐PN patients have a more distinctive long‐term, focal, benign course.
Who Reacts to Less Restrictive Divorce Laws?
Authors: Fallesen Peter
Published: March 2021

Objective

To study how divorce behavior in Denmark changed following a July 2013 reform that removed previous restriction on immediate divorce by repealing mandatory 6‐month separation periods for uncontested divorces, instead allowing for immediate administrative divorce.

Background

Most countries have mandatory separation periods that couples undergo before they can divorce. Separation allows couples a grace period, during which they may reconcile and stay together. Yet, the impact of separation periods on divorce risk remains understudied.

Methods

Using monthly time series data on divorce rates from 2007 to 2018 (T = 144), the research brief estimates the size and shape of the policy impact of the July 2013 reform. Using monthly administrative population data on all ever‐married couples (N*T = 11,304,566), the study further calculates the average characteristics of married couples in Denmark who would have remained together absent the reform.

Results

After an initial spike in the divorce rate driven by couples divorcing earlier, the divorce rate settled at a 10% higher level compared to pre‐reform. Couples who divorced because of the reform had been married for fewer years compared to other divorced couples, were ethnic Danish, and had high school degree as the highest educational level.

Conclusion

Mandatory separation periods have a dampening effect on divorce rates.
Patterns of local residual disease and local failure after intensity modulated/image guided radiation therapy for sinonasal tumors in dogs
Authors: Poirier Valerie J. , Koh Ethel S. Y. , Darko Johnson , Fleck Andre , Pinard Christopher , Vail David M.
Published: March 2021

Background

Most dogs with sinonasal tumors (SNT) treated with radiation therapy (RT) died because of local disease progression.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Our hypothesis is that the majority of local failure and residual disease would occur within the radiation field.

Animals

Twenty‐two dogs with SNT treated with RT.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study. Inclusion criteria: dogs with SNT receiving 10 daily fractions of 4.2 Gy with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)/image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) and follow‐up cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Each CBCT was registered with the original radiation planning CT and the gross tumor volume (GTV) contoured. The GTV was classified as residual (GTVr) or a failure (GTVf). The dose statistic for each GTV was calculated with the original IMRT plan. For GTVf, failures were classified as “in‐field,” “marginal,” or “out‐field” if at least 95, 20‐95, or less than 20% of the volume of failure was within 95% (D95) of the total prescription dose, respectively.

Results

There were 52 follow‐up CBCT/CTs. Overall there was a GTVr for 20 dogs and GTVf for 16 dogs. The majority of GTVr volume was within the original GTV. GTVf analysis showed that 75% (12/16) were “in‐field,” 19% (3/16) were “marginal” and 6% (1/16) were “out‐field.”

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

In‐field failures are the main pattern for local recurrence, and there is evidence of radioresistant subvolumes within the GTV.
ActS activates peptidoglycan amidases during outer membrane stress in Escherichia coli
Authors: Gurnani Serrano Carlos K. , Winkle Matthias , Martorana Alessandra M. , Biboy Jacob , Morè Niccolo , Moynihan Patrick , Banzhaf Manuel , Vollmer Waldemar , Polissi Alessandra
Published: March 2021

The integrity of the cell envelope of E. coli relies on the concerted activity of multi‐protein machineries that synthesize the peptidoglycan (PG) and the outer membrane (OM). Our previous work found that the depletion of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) export to the OM induces an essential PG remodeling process involving LD‐transpeptidases (LDTs), the glycosyltransferase function of PBP1B and the carboxypeptidase PBP6a. Consequently, cells with defective OM biogenesis lyse if they lack any of these PG enzymes. Here we report that the morphological defects, and lysis associated with a ldtF mutant with impaired LPS transport, are alleviated by the loss of the predicted OM‐anchored lipoprotein ActS (formerly YgeR). We show that ActS is an inactive member of LytM‐type peptidoglycan endopeptidases due to a degenerated catalytic domain. ActS is capable of activating all three main periplasmic peptidoglycan amidases, AmiA, AmiB, and AmiC, which were previously reported to be activated only by EnvC and/or NlpD. Our data also suggest that in vivo ActS preferentially activates AmiC and that its function is linked to cell envelope stress.
The trefoil factor family 1 (TFF‐1) and 3 (TFF‐3) are upregulated in the saliva, gingival crevicular fluid and serum of periodontitis patients
Authors: Keles Yucel Zeynep Pinar , Afacan Beral , Atmaca İlhan Harika , Kose Timur , Emingil Gulnur
Published: March 2021

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the levels of trefoil factor family (TFF)‐1, TFF‐3 and interleukin (IL)‐1β in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), saliva and serum of patients with gingivitis, stage 3 periodontitis and healthy individuals.

Materials and Methods

A total of 100 individuals consisting of 25 periodontally healthy, 25 gingivitis and 50 stage 3 periodontitis, were enrolled in the study. Clinical periodontal examinations were recorded and GCF, saliva and serum samples were obtained. TFF‐1, TFF‐3 and IL‐1β were measured by ELISA.

Results

TFF‐1 and TFF‐3 levels in both GCF, saliva and serum were higher in periodontitis patients than healthy controls (p < .001) and gingivitis group (p < .01). The levels of these peptides in all biofluids were similar between gingivitis and healthy control groups (p > .05). GCF, saliva and serum IL‐1β levels were also higher in periodontitis patients than the controls (p < .01). Periodontitis patients had elevated GCF and saliva IL‐β levels than gingivitis group (p < .001).

Conclusion

Elevated TFF‐1 and TFF‐3 levels both locally and systemically in periodontitis in parallel to increased IL‐1β levels might suggest that these peptides are involved in host response during the periodontal tissue destruction.
Effects of hyperoxia and cardiovascular risk factors on myocardial ischaemia–reperfusion injury: a randomized, sham‐controlled parallel study
Authors: Acheampong Angela , Mélot Christian , Benjelloun Mariam , Cheval Maxime , Reye Florence , Delporte Cédric , van Antwerpen Pierre , Franck Thierry , Mc Entee Kathleen , van de Borne Philippe
Published: March 2021

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

The beneficial effects of supplemental oxygen in patients with acute myocardial infarction are still uncertain: what are the effects of ischaemia–reperfusion injury during hyperoxia and normoxia in mature rats with and without cardiovascular risk factors?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Despite elevated baseline oxidative stress in rodents with cardiovascular risk factors, hyperoxic reperfusion limited myocardial necrosis and anti/pro‐oxidant imbalance in spontaneously hypertensive and Zucker rats. In contrast, this effect was exacerbated in healthy Wistar rats. These results suggest that oxygen supplementation may not be harmful in patients with acute myocardial injury.

Recent studies on O2 supplementation in acute coronary syndrome patients are equivocal. We tested the hypothesis that oxidative stress is increased in rodents with cardiovascular risk factors and enhances ischaemia–reperfusion injury in the presence of hyperoxia. A total of 43 Wistar rats (WR), 30 spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and 33 obese Zucker rats (ZR) were randomized in a sham procedure (one‐third) or underwent a left anterior descending ligation of the coronary artery for 60 min (two‐thirds). This was followed by 3 h of reperfusion while animals were randomized either in a hyperoxic (HR) or a normoxic reperfusion (NR) group. Myocardial infarction size and oxidative stress biomarkers (myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde and total free thiols) were assessed in blood samples. Baseline troponin T was higher in SHR and ZR than in WR (both P < 0.001). Baseline total MPO was elevated in ZR in comparison to SHR and WR (both P < 0.001). SHR had lower thiol concentration compared to WR and ZR (P < 0.000001). HR was associated with a lower troponin T rise in SHR and ZR than in NR (both P < 0.001), while the reverse occurred in WR (P < 0.001). In SHR, HR limited total MPO increase as compared to NR (P = 0.0056) and the opposite effect was observed with total MPO in WR (P = 0.013). NR was associated with a drastic reduction of total thiols as compared to HR both in SHR and in ZR (both P < 0.001). Despite a heightened baseline oxidative stress level, HR limited myocardial necrosis and anti/pro‐oxidant imbalance in SHR and ZR whereas this effect was exacerbated in healthy WR.
Educación inclusiva en Ecuador: perspectiva de directores, familias y evaluadores
Authors: Tárraga-Mínguez Raúl , Vélez-Calvo Ximena , Sanz-Cervera Pilar , Pastor-Cerezuela Gemma , Fernández-Andrés María Inmaculada
Published: March 2021

El objetivo de este estudio consiste en analizar los indicadores de inclusión en una muestra de escuelas de la ciudad de Cuenca, Ecuador, y comparar las percepciones entre diferentes agentes educativos. Para ello, se les aplicó el Index for Inclusion a 19 directores(as) de centros educativos, 156 familias y 30 graduadas de titulaciones universitarias de Educación. Los resultados evidencian diferencias en la percepción del grado de inclusión en los tres grupos. Se discute el papel del sesgo de deseabilidad social en la interpretación de los resultados.
User Interface Design for Feature Modelers and Feature Based Applications
Authors: Bliznakov Plamen I. , Rogers Mary T. , Khan Nadeem , Ali Ahsan , Shirur Arvind , Shah Jami J.
Published: March 2021

The functionality needed to support feature-based operations in a uniform interface is described in this paper. These requirements are similar in nature to other CAD systems. Extensions include the support for multiple feature libraries; visualization of features prior to instancing; graphical picking of features; creation of feature libraries; support for applications such as feature based process planning. In this paper, we describe the design and implementation of our own uniform user interface, built to accommodate an array of feature modelers and applications. Interfaces for new feature applications that are either developed in-house or available in an open-systems format can easily be added. The user interface management system design presented here can be used in the development of the next generation distributed design automation tools utilizing a client-server approach and concepts such as the World Wide Web.
Handling Protrusion Features With Virtual Pockets for Automated Process Planning
Authors: Lee Yuan-Shin , Daftari Dhaval
Published: March 2021

In this paper a two step approach for the transformation of design features to manufacturing features is presented. In the first stage of the proposed algorithm, a methodology for handling protrusion features by the decomposition of the surrounding volume into basic, negative, machinable volumes is discussed. In the second stage called the feature refinement stage, relevant manufacturing information is appended to the negative feature model resulting from the first stage. The proposed methodology can be used to support automated process planning. Practical examples and computer implementation in an object oriented feature based design system are also presented.
Model Development and Control Implementation for a Magnetic Levitation Apparatus
Authors: Guess Trent M. , Alciatore David G.
Published: March 2021

This project takes a comprehensive look at model development for the classic magnetic levitation system and examines differences between the conventional mag-lev model and an actual system. Also examined are the effects that un-modeled dynamics can have on the stability of a simulated system. This project combines and expands upon modeling techniques presented in similar projects (Lawson and Gillies, 1989, Lin and Jou, 1993, Oguchi and Tomigashi, 1990, Wong, 1986), and presents a method for modeling the mag-lev system which combines conventional electromagnetic theory and data from the physical plant. The model is then tested by designing and simulating controllers with the model and then applying the controllers to the experimental apparatus.
A Concurrent Structure for a Model-Based Information Management System
Authors: Prasad Biren
Published: March 2021

Tools for modeling the physics of complex engineering devices and for simulation of their behavior are widely available. But, despite advances in requisite hardware and software, their use in CE has not become widespread. On a critical level, the missing ingredient is the array of models that is required to adequately capture the variability of the problems and their environment. The role of classifying the various types of models which capture the CE phenomena is crucial in accomplishing CE benefits. Such classification leads to a common set of CE process templates. This paper discusses this classification and CE process templates.
A Unifying Version Model for Object-Oriented Engineering Database
Authors: Brazile Robert P. , Shin Dongil
Published: March 2021

Versioning has been one of the important requirements for engineering design databases and is of increasing interest to database system designers. While there exist many object-oriented DBMS’s that support various versioning facilities, these systems consider the versioning problems as two separate domains: object versioning and schema versioning. In this paper, we consider both domains together and propose a unifying version model for both objects and schema. In particular, we present how we unify version controls for schema and objects, and describe issues in implementation.
Fitness Tests and Match Performance in a Male Ice Hockey National League
Authors: Haugen Thomas , Hopkins Will , Breitschädel Felix , Paulsen Gøran , Solberg Paul
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To determine if generic off-ice physical fitness tests can provide useful predictions of ice hockey players’ match performance. Methods: Approximately 40 to 60 defenders and 70 to 100 forwards from the Norwegian male upper ice hockey league were tested for strength (1-repetition maximum in squat and bench press), power (40-m sprint and countermovement jump), and endurance (hanging sit-ups, chins, and 3000-m run) annually at the end of every preseason period between 2008 and 2017. Measures of match performance were each player’s season mean counts per match of assists, points, goals, penalty minutes, and plus-minus score. Results: Overall, match performance measures displayed trivial to small correlations with the fitness tests. More specifically, points per game had at most small correlations with measures of strength (range, approximately −0.2 to 0.3), speed (approximately −0.2 to 0.3), and endurance (approximately −0.1 to 0.3). After adjustments for age that showed moderate to large correlations with player match performance, multiple-regression analyses of each test measure still provided some predictability among players of the same age. However, players selected for the national team had substantially better mean scores for most tests and match performance measures than those not selected, with a moderate to large difference for age, 1-repetition maximum squat, and 1-repetition maximum bench press. Conclusions: Fitness tests had only marginal utility for predicting match performance in Norwegian hockey players, but those selected into the national team had better general fitness.