bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Messenger RNA typing of environmental RNA (eRNA): A case study on zebrafish tank water with perspectives for the future development of eRNA analysis on aquatic vertebrates
Authors: Tsuri Kenji , Ikeda Shizuya , Hirohara Takaya , Shimada Yasuhito , Minamoto Toshifumi , Yamanaka Hiroki
Published: December 2020

As an alternative/supplement to conventional biodiversity survey methods, environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has developed rapidly during the past decade, and is widely used for the biomonitoring of wildlife. However, the interpretation of eDNA results has been limited to the presence/absence or biomass/abundance of the target species because of uncertainty regarding the dynamics of eDNA in natural environments. This limitation may be ameliorated by targeting environmental RNA (eRNA). RNA is more prone to degrade than DNA and the pattern of messenger RNA (mRNA) expression changes depending on physiological conditions, meaning that the presence or concentration of mRNA could reflect the organism's presence with higher temporal resolution and provide information beyond simple presence/absence. Technical developments in the detection of eRNA focusing on mRNA with these distinct features could permit the advanced usage of genetic materials in water. In advancing this technique, we initiated this study asking that if we can detect elevated levels of eRNA whose genes are specific to a tissue source (e.g., gills or skin), then could not we infer the tissue origin of the genetic material detected. To this end, we developed gene‐specific primer sets for the target genes with biased expression in the gills, skin, and intestine, and conducted reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction on zebrafish breeding tank water samples, obtaining positive results for all assays. The result of our experiment confirmed that the specific target tissues can be the source of genetic materials detected in water and with that we offer a proof of concept for eRNA analysis targeting specific mRNAs of aquatic vertebrates. In this commentary, we provide information on the experimental steps used for mRNA typing of eRNA from zebrafish as well as the limitations and challenges of this technique and the prospect of mRNA typing of eRNA in the future.
Yolk–Shell Cu2O@CuO‐decorated RGO for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Battery Anode
Authors: Pu Fangzhao , Bai Yilu , Lv Jian , Zhao Xintian , Wu Guanchen , Kong Chuncai , Lei Bosen , Zhang Xiaojing , Jin Hong , Yang Zhimao
Published: December 2020

Based on the great advantages of an inner hollow structure and excellent solid counterpart capacity, complex hierarchical structures have been widely used as electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries. Herein, hierarchical yolk–shell Cu2O@CuO‐decorated RGO (YSRs) was designed and synthesized via a multi‐step approach. Octahedron‐like Cu2O‐decorated RGO was firstly produced, in which GO was reduced slightly while cuprous oxide was synthesized. Subsequently, the controlled oxidation of Cu2O@RGO led to the synthesis of special YSRs, which were composed of a solid Cu2O core, spur‐CuO, CuO shell, and RGO covered. As anode materials, YSRs could provide considerable capacity density. Meanwhile, the void existed between shells and solid active materials retaining the advantages of inner hollow structure. As a result, the unique architecture of the materials renders the composites with enhanced electronic and ionic diffusion kinetics, high specific capacity (~894 mAh g‐1, 0.1C), and an excellent rate capability.
Selectivity in the Addition of Electron‐Deficient Radicals to the C2 Position of Indoles
Authors: Li Yi , Vaz Roy J. , Olson Steven H. , Munson Mark , Paras Nick A. , Conrad Jay
Published: December 2020

The addition of electron‐deficient radicals to the C2 position of indoles has been described in the literature as opposed to electrophilic addition at the C3 position. Density functional theory calculations were used to understand the switch in regioselectivity from C3 to C2 for indole to undergo radical additions. Electron deficient radicals have a lower barrier for the reaction at C2 and a lower energy radical intermediate that benefits from benzylic radical stabilization. Trifluoromethyl radical addition has a lower energy barrier than acetonitrile radical, and the C3 addition transition state is just 0.8 kcal/mol higher than C2. This is supported by experimental observations.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Corey Lactone and Latanoprost
Authors: Umekubo Nariyoshi , Hayashi Yujiro
Published: December 2020

Corey lactone was synthesized in a single pot within 152 minutes in a 50 % overall yield via pot and time economical manner. Latanoprost, an antiglaucoma blockbuster drug, was also synthesized via seven pot reaction with five purifications in a 25 % total yield. One of the key reactions is asymmetric domino Michael/Michael reaction, formal [3+2] cycloaddition reaction, of 3‐(dimethylphenylsilyl)propenal and ethyl 4‐oxo‐2‐pentenoate, catalyzed by diphenylprolinol silyl ether, which constructed the core substituted cyclopentanone derivative with nearly optically pure form.
Energy efficient resource allocation for uplink hybrid power domain sparse code nonorthogonal multiple access heterogeneous networks with statistical channel estimation
Authors: Chege Simon , Walingo Tom
Published: December 2020

Modern 5G heterogeneous networks (HetNets) require hybrid multiple access technology for optimal performance. The feasibility of a hybrid power domain sparse code nonorthogonal multiple access (PD‐SCMA) that integrates both power domain nonorthogonal multiple access (PD‐NOMA) and sparse code multiple access (SCMA) for an uplink hierarchical HetNet system is demonstrated. Hybrid schemes namely: Successive Codebook Ordering Assignment (SCOA) for codebook assignment (CA), opportunistic MUE‐SUE pairing (OMSP) for user pairing (UP), and a QoS‐aware power allocation (QAPA) for power allocation (PA) are developed. The SCOA algorithm is based on channel quality ordering metric, OMSP algorithm is based on channel quality diversity and pairing interference metric while the QAPA algorithm features a QoS awareness metric. A joint energy efficiency (EE) resource allocation (JEERA) algorithm that iteratively performs CA, UP, and PA for small cell user equipment (SUE) and the macro user equipment (MUE) to limit interference, improve spectral and energy efficiency is presented. The problem is formulated as a mixed integer nonconvex system EE resource allocation optimization for the small cells under QoS constraints of minimum sum‐rate, interference temperature, maximum power, and SCMA structure for a hybrid low complexity joint SIC‐Log‐MPA receiver. A modified near‐optimal dual decomposition analytical methodology featuring Dinkelbach fractional transformations is utilized to assess the system's performance on an imperfect wireless channel. Through numerical results, the proposed schemes are shown to improve the EE of the small cells in comparison with the prevalent schemes.
Climate change impacts on household food security and adaptation strategies in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonnen Adisu , Tessema Ayele , Ganewo Zerhun , Haile Ashenafi
Published: December 2020

Climate change is predicted to adversely affect agricultural yields, particularly in African countries such as Ethiopia, where crop production relies heavily on environmental factors such as rainfall and temperature. However, there have only been a limited number of studies on the effects of climate change dynamics on food security in Africa, particularly at the household level. We therefore analyzed local climatic changes, the status of household food security, climate‐related causes of food insecurity, food security determinants, and the adaptation strategies of local farmers. Three decades meteorological data were analyzed. A total of 185 farmers were selected using simple random sampling and interviewed, together with focus groups. Data were analyzed using the descriptive and inferential statistics together with the logit regression model. Climate change over the last three decades was found to have a negative impact on the food security status of households. Crop production was constrained by poor rainfall, severe erosion, and increases in temperature. The unpredictability of rainfall, pests, and diseases were also contributing factors. Using the calorie intake approach, 60.5% of sampled respondents were found to be food insecure. Analysis using the logistic regression model showed that age and family size, as well as the amount of cultivated land and rainfall, were the significant (p < .05) factors influencing household food security status. A large proportion (69.8%) of farmers were incorporating adapting strategies into farm management including improved use of crop varieties and livestock production, in addition to income diversification. Taken together, these findings show that improving climate change awareness, facilitating the participation of female‐led households in income generation, and strengthening existing adaptation measures have positive impacts on food security.
Konjac Glucomannan from Amorphophallus konjac enhances immunocompetence of the cyclophosphamide‐induced immunosuppressed mice
Authors: Dai Jiajia , Chen Jian , Qi Jun , Ding Mengru , Liu Wei , Shao Taili , Han Jun , Wang Guodong
Published: December 2020

This present study was designed to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of Konjac glucomannan (KGM) on immunosuppressed mice induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX) treatment. The mice immunodeficiency model was established by CTX. KGM was used to modulate the activities of immunosuppressive mice. It was proved that KGM could promote the proliferation of lymphocyte, thymus, and spleen indices, and alleviate the atrophy of immune organs and weight loss. Besides, in mice serum, the levels of cytokines including TNF‐α, IgG, IL‐2, and the contents of hemolysin were also increased after treatment with KGM. Furtherly, in nonspecific immunity, KGM could enhance natural killer (NK) cell lethality and pinocytic activity of mouse peritoneal macrophages. Therefore, all of these results revealed that KGM could improve the reduced immunity of CTX‐induced mice via modulation innate immunity and adaptive immunity.
The reciprocal relationship between depression and disability in low‐income homebound older adults following tele‐depression treatment
Authors: Marti C. Nathan , Kunik Mark E. , Choi Namkee G.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Research has shown ample evidence for reciprocity between depression and disability. We examined whether decreases in disability among low‐income, homebound older adults who received brief depression treatments were mediated by improvement in depressive symptoms and vice versa and whether the mediation effects varied by treatment modality.

Methods

In a 3‐arm randomized clinical trial, 277 low‐income homebound individuals aged 50+ participated in behavioral activation tele‐delivered by bachelor's‐level lay counselors (Tele‐BA), problem‐solving therapy tele‐delivered by licensed clinicians (Tele‐PST), or telephone support calls (attention control). Depressive symptoms were assessed with the 24‐item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and disability with the 12‐item World Health Organization Disability Schedule 2.0. Along with mediation models, mediation was assessed controlling for autoregressive and contemporaneous effects.

Results

Mediation models showed evidence of postintervention disability and depression mediating each other in separate mediation models. In the cross‐lagged model, in which autoregressive and contemporaneous effects were included, only the depression‐to‐disability path exhibited mediation. There was no evidence of difference between Tele‐BA and Tele‐PST. Although the temporal precedence of treatment conditions on the outcomes is apparent, we could not establish a temporal precedence between disability and depression as these two measures exhibited parallel improvement.

Conclusions

Brief depression treatments for low‐income homebound older adults were effective in reducing both depression and disability among these disabled older adults. The importance of this study lies in the comparable effects of Tele‐BA and Tele‐PST. Lay‐counselor model is a promising alternative to clinician‐delivered psychotherapy for growing numbers of homebound older adults.
The financial impact of puerperal infections on patients, carers and public hospitals in two regions in Ghana
Authors: Fenny Ama Pokuaa , Otieku Evans , Akufo Christiana , Obeng‐Nkrumah Noah , Asante Felix Ankomah , Enemark Ulrika
Published: December 2020

Background

Puerperal infection (PI) is a known maternal health problem globally. However, there is limited information on its economic impact on patients, carers, and public hospitals in lower‐middle‐income countries, such as Ghana.

Methods

A prospective case‐control study was undertaken in two regional hospitals to analyze the cost of PI. A total of 667 and 559 participants were enrolled in the study at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (GARH) and the Eastern Regional Hospital (ERH), respectively. Total, average and marginal costs were analyzed between patients with and without PI.

Results

Within the study period, the prevalence of PI was 9.1% at ERH and 14.9% at GARH. Overall, patients with PI reported excess length of hospital stay (LOS), corresponding to 46.8% and 33.5% increases in average direct cost at ERH and GARH, respectively, compared with their control groups. In almost all cases, the attributable indirect cost was consistent with productivity loss.

Conclusion

In both hospitals, patients with PI reported excess LOS and increased direct and indirect costs. The total cost of PI to society, which is the sum of the direct cost, productivity loss, and hospital cost, was higher in Greater Accra than in the Eastern region.
Effects of selenium supplementation on pregnancy outcomes and disease progression in HIV‐infected pregnant women in Lagos: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Okunade Kehinde S. , Olowoselu Olusola F. , John‐Olabode Sarah , Hassan Basirat O. , Akinsola Oluwatosin J. , Nwogu Chidinma M. , Ugwu Aloy O. , Moses Olusanjo E. , Rabiu Kabiru A. , Ajepe Adegbenga , Adenekan Muisi A. , Adejimi Adebola A. , Akanmu Sulaimon A. , Kanki Phyllis J.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To examine the effects of selenium supplementation on pregnancy outcomes and disease progression among HIV‐infected pregnant women in Lagos.

Methods

A randomized, placebo‐controlled trial conducted among HIV‐positive pregnant women between September 2018 and August 2019. At enrollment, 90 women were randomly assigned into each treatment arm to receive either a daily tablet of 200 μg elemental selenium or a placebo. Relevant participants' sociodemographic and clinical data were collected at enrollment and delivery.

Results

Women in the selenium arm had a significantly lower risk of preterm delivery (relative risk [RR] 0.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.11–0.96) and a non‐significant reduction in the risk of delivering term neonates with a low delivery weight (RR 0.24, 95% CI 0.05–1.19). Supplemental selenium does not increase the risk of perinatal death and adverse drug events.

Conclusion

The study reported a beneficial effect of prenatal selenium supplements on the risk of preterm delivery with no further reduction in risk among HIV‐infected women who used the supplements for more than 14 weeks.

Trial registration

Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR201809756724274).
Age‐related diagnostic threshold of anti‐Müllerian hormone for polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: Kakkad Vivek , Reddy Nellepalli Sanjeeva , Nihlani Harsh , Gundewar Tejas
Published: December 2020

OBJECTIVE

To ascertain the threshold value for anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) in the diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in an Indian population.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was carried out on infertile women at the Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery at a tertiary hospital from January 2017 to November 2019. Serum AMH was analyzed with Access AMH chemiluminescent immunoassay. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to calculate the diagnostic threshold value of serum AMH in two age groups: 20–29 and 30–39 years.

RESULTS

Of 688 women, 200 (29.1%) were diagnosed with PCOS by the Rotterdam criteria: 98/282 (34.8%) aged 20–29 years and 102/406 (25.4%) aged 30–39 years. Mean serum AMH was 5.07 ± 3.97 and 4.330 ± 7.15 ng/ml in women aged 20–29 and 30–39 years, respectively. A threshold value of serum AMH above 3.75 ng/ml was predictive of PCOS by Youden's J statistics in the entire cohort, whereas it was 5.46 and 3.46 ng/ml in women aged 20–29 and 30–39 years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Serum AMH of 5.46 and 3.46 ng/ml in women aged 20–29 and 30–39 years, respectively, can be used to diagnose PCOS when there is a diagnostic dilemma in the Rotterdam criteria.
The effect of competitive and cooperative contexts on comparative optimism
Authors: Krzeminski Aurélie , Milhabet Isabelle , Schadron Georges
Published: December 2020

Several common characteristics are shared by competition and comparative optimism; and comparative optimism has often been observed in competitive environments like entrepreneurial fields or areas that require skills. Competitive context could be an explanatory factor for comparative optimism neglected to date. The aim of this article is to test the links between competition (vs. cooperation) and comparative optimism. In Study 1, participants in different academic majors with a more or less competitive nature (respectively, medical studies and human sciences studies) answered questions about their future and that of others. In Study 2, for the participants in the less competitive course of study (human sciences studies), we presented their studies as being either competitive or cooperative. The impact of this context was tested as a function of the closeness or distance between the participants and the comparison targets. The results of both studies showed that competition increased the expression of comparative optimism. In Study 2, this effect emerged more when the comparison target was distant than when it was close, with proximity hindering the competitive relationship between the self and others. The feeling of competition with others contributed to a better understanding of comparative optimism and initiated new explanations for its emergence.
Black adrenal adenoma causing subclinical Cushing’s syndrome complicated with pheochromocytoma
Authors: Uketa Shoko , Shimizu Yousuke , Ogawa Kosuke , Utsunomiya Noriaki , Asai Satsuki , Ishihara Misa , Kanamaru Sojun
Published: December 2020

Introduction

The development of adrenocortical adenoma and pheochromocytoma within the same adrenal gland is very rare. Furthermore, no reports have described coincident black adrenal adenoma and pheochromocytoma. We herein report a rare case of coincident black adrenal adenoma and pheochromocytoma in the same adrenal gland.

Case presentation

A 71‐year‐old Japanese woman was hospitalized because a right adrenal tumor had been incidentally found by computed tomography. She was diagnosed with subclinical Cushing’s syndrome and underwent laparoscopic right adrenalectomy. The tumor contained two adrenal nodules. The cut surface of the larger nodule was brownish‐black on macroscopic examination. Pathological studies revealed coincident black adrenal adenoma and pheochromocytoma.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of coincident black adrenal adenoma causing subclinical Cushing’s syndrome and pheochromocytoma in the same adrenal gland. The mechanism of this rare scenario is unclear, and further study is necessary.
Classification of neovascularization on retinal images using extreme learning machine
Authors: Pappu Geetha Pavani , Biswal Birendra , Gandhi Tapan K. , Sai Ram Metta Venkata Satya
Published: December 2020

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is the advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy (DR) resulting in the growth of abnormal vessels on the retinal surface termed as neovascularization. This article primarily deals with the timely detection and classification of retinal images into healthy, neovascularization on optic disc, and elsewhere using an extreme learning machine (ELM) classifier. Initially, a binary mask is employed to enhance the foreground pixels. The resultant image is processed for the extraction of a retinal vessel map using Hessian‐based Frangi filter. For the classification of retinal images, an optimal feature set of 14 features including seven‐moment invariant‐based features are extracted from the vascular map using sequential recursive feature elimination algorithm. Further, the training of the ELM classifier is carried out using the K‐fold cross‐validation technique to improve the performance of the classifier. The proposed method achieves an average accuracy of 98% and an average error rate of less than 0.005 when tested on different globally accessible datasets. Apart from the different statistical results like sensitivity, specificity, and area under curve are estimated as 98.5%, 100%, and 94.2%, respectively, for validating the algorithm. Comparison results reveal that the ELM classifier outperforms the SVM classifier in terms of accuracy and error rate.
Evaluating the change in preceptor habits while enrolled in a teaching and learning curriculum using the habits of preceptors rubric
Authors: Davis Lindsay E. , Pogge Elizabeth K. , Larson Suzanne , Storjohann Tara , Early Nicole
Published: December 2020

Introduction

The quality of experiential education for pharmacists‐in‐training is heavily impacted by the habits of their preceptors. Assessment of preceptor capabilities and evidence of development has been limited due to the absence of a tool to meaningfully facilitate preceptor assessment in a robust and progressive fashion.

Objective

The primary objective was to determine the change in perceived precepting behavior and abilities of residents and preceptors enrolled in a teaching and learning curriculum (TLC) using a self‐directed assessment seeking (SDAS) approach via the Habits of Preceptors Rubric (HOP‐R).

Methods

Pharmacists enrolled in the 2018 to 2019 cohort of the Clinician Educators Program (CEP) TLC were invited to assess their precepting habits using the HOP‐R after attending the first seminar and again toward the end of the longitudinal 12‐month program using a SDAS approach. Using online surveys, participants rated their precepting capabilities as developing, proficient, accomplished, or master level for each of the 11 preceptor habits within the HOP‐R. The change in their self‐reported ratings was evaluated.

Results

The response rate for participants completing both the initial and follow‐up surveys was 56% (52/93). When comparing matched responses, the difference in self‐reported habit level ratings was statistically significant. The overwhelming majority of participants, 94%, reported advancement in one or more habits, with 60% reporting advancement in six or more habits while enrolled in the CEP.

Conclusion

Preceptor and resident pharmacists reported advancement of precepting capabilities within the conceptual framework of the HOP‐R while enrolled in a TLC. The SDAS approach yielded participant comments showcasing the perceived value of completing the criterion‐referenced HOP‐R assessment to foster self‐awareness and self‐efficacy related to precepting and preceptor development. The HOP‐R can be utilized within TLC to allow participants to assess precepting habits and show growth and development of their capabilities over time both individually and in aggregate.
Earnings management and agency costs: Is China different?
Authors: Man Yimei
Published: December 2020

In this article, we investigate the link between agency costs (AC) and earnings management (EM) in China. We find a significant and positive relationship between AC and EM based on the static model that suggests opportunistic EM in China. However, we find an insignificant relationship between AC and EM when we use the dynamic model that takes into account the endogeneity issue. Therefore, our results provide further support to the growing literature on the concerns of endogeneity issues in corporate governance studies, since failing to take these into account can lead to spurious results.
Meeting the sustainable development goals in a tropical climate
Authors: Zakaria Zuriati
Published: December 2020

This article reflects on the Federation of Asian Chemical Societies (FACS) Citation Award Lecture delivered in the Industrial Technology Research Institute Symposium on CO2 Utilization and Green Technology during the 18th Asian Chemical Congress held in Taipei, December 12, 2019. Malaysia produces sizable amounts of palm oil and palm kernel oil, with palm fronds and tree trunks as the main waste. At the Malaysia Japan International Institute of Technology, the biomass was decomposed to produce fine chemicals, used as substrate for mushroom growth, and converted to bio‐coke for heat energy. A notable difference has been found regarding the emission of greenhouse gases from a natural peat forest and those from the oil palm plantation converted from peatlands, where in the palm plantation, water table is lowered and aerobic processes occurs, resulting in more CO2 being released compared to CH4. The introduction of fertilizers to the plantation resulted in more N2O being released. The team has also pioneered a project to plant temperate vegetables. Cooling pipes (16–18°C with circulating water cooled by chiller) were embedded within each thermal conditioning soil plot. Lettuce and radish, the experimental plants, showed good growth in the thermal conditioning soil due to nitrogen‐fixing bacteria, which were destroyed at a higher temperature.
Tumor‐derived exosomes in the PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis: Significant regulators as well as promising clinical targets
Authors: Liang Benhui , Hu Ximin , Ding Yinghe , Liu Mujun
Published: December 2020

Programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1) is a negative coreceptor mainly expressed on the surface of activated T cells. The binding of PD‐1 to its ligand PD‐L1 significantly induces non‐reactivity of T cells to maintain the balance of autoimmunity and immune tolerance. It is reported that tumor cells highly express PD‐L1 to restrict cellular immune response, which is one of the most important mechanisms for tumor to mediate immune escape. Cancer immunotherapy targeting PD‐1/PD‐L1 has achieved remarkable success so far. Tumor‐derived exosomes (TEXs) are lipid bilayer vesicles released by tumor cells in an endosome‐dependent manner, mediating communication between tumor cells and adjacent cells in the tumor microenvironment. Through signals transmitted by TEXs, tumor can alter the biological characteristics of these cells to promote tumor growth and metastasis. Recent studies have demonstrated that TEXs not only carry tumor‐derived PD‐L1, but are also closely related to PD‐1/PD‐L1 expression on target cells. The primary focus of this review will be on how TEXs regulate the PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis to promote tumor progression, and the promising clinical applications targeting TEXs and exosomal PD‐L1.
Crosstalk between the COX2‐PGE2‐EP4 signaling pathway and primary cilia in osteoblasts after mechanical stimulation
Authors: Li Yan‐Hui , Zhu Dong , Yang Tianye , Cheng Long , Sun Jian , Tan Lei
Published: December 2020

Primary cilia have been found to function as mechanosensors in low‐magnitude high‐frequency vibration (LMHFV)‐induced osteogenesis. The PGE2 also regulates bone homeostasis and mechanical osteogenesis through its receptor EP4 signaling, but its involvement in LMHFV‐induced or in primary cilia‐induced osteogenesis has not been investigated. We hypothesized that LMHFV stimulates osteoblast (OB) differentiation by activating the COX2‐PGE2‐EP pathway in a manner dependent on primary cilia and that primary cilia are also affected by the PGE2 pathway. In this study, through western blot analysis, RNA interference, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and cytochemical staining, we observed that COX2, mPGES‐1, and PGE2 levels were markedly elevated in cells treated with LMHFV and were greatly decreased in LMHFV‐treated cells following IFT88 silencing. EP4 expression was significantly increased in OBs following LMHFV treatment, but IFT88 silencing significantly blocked this increase. EP4 localized to the bases of primary cilia. LMHFV reduced the length and abundance of primary cilia, but the cells could self‐repair their primary cilia after mechanical damage. EP4 antagonism significantly blocked the LMHFV‐induced increase in IFT88 expression and blocked the recovery of primary cilia length and the proportion of cells with primary cilia. In addition, COX2 or EP4 antagonism disrupted LMHFV‐induced osteogenesis. These results demonstrate the integration of and crosstalk between primary cilia and the COX2‐PGE2‐EP4 signaling pathway under mechanical stimulation.
Circular RNAs: Rising stars in lipid metabolism and lipid disorders
Authors: Yu Guangli , Yang Zhou , Peng Tianhong , Lv Yuncheng
Published: December 2020

The underlying mechanisms of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in lipid metabolism regulation and the pathogenesis of lipid disorder diseases are clarified in this review. circRNAs are produced from host genes by back splicing and are mainly degraded by RNase L. circRNAs act as molecular sponges or scaffolds that bind with microRNAs or proteins and thus affect the intracorporeal processes of lipid metabolism. CircRNA_11897 and circSAMD4A facilitated adipogenesis while circH19 and circRNA_26852 accelerated adipolysis in adipose tissue. CircSAMD4A promoted the differentiation of preadipocytes, but circH19 and circFUT10 inhibited this differentiation. CircFUT10 also promoted the proliferation of preadipocytes. CiRS‐133 fostered the browning of white adipose tissue. CircACC1, circRNA_021412, circRNA_0046366, and circRNA_0046367 promoted the mitochondrial β‐oxidation of fatty acids in hepatocytes. CircRNA_021412 suppressed the synthesis of triglycerides in hepatocytes. CircScd1 inhibited hepatic lipid droplet formation. circ_0092317, circ_0003546, circ_0028198, circ_0092317, and circACC1 probably reduced cholesterol efflux from macrophages. circ_0037251 likely promoted lipid accumulation and inhibited lipophagy in macrophages. circRNAs participate in lipid metabolism regulation and affect the development of lipid disorder diseases.
Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy—Local and Systemic: A Pharmacologic Perspective
Authors: Smith Taryn , Sahni Sabrina , Thacker Holly L.
Published: December 2020

Every woman, if she lives long enough, will transition into menopause, and as the US population ages, women will be spending more time in a postmenopausal state than before. For postmenopausal women, the decision to initiate menopausal hormone therapy should be individualized. A thorough evaluation of the patient's cardiovascular, venous thromboembolic, cancer, and fracture risk should be considered along with the woman's quality of life. Hormone therapy exerts its therapeutic effects on vasomotor symptoms, the skeleton, and the genitourinary system independent of age since menopause and these benefits are lost once hormone therapy is stopped. Here we review the pharmacologic properties dose, formulation, mode of administration, timing of initiation, and duration of hormonal therapies in regard to optimizing benefit and minimizing risk to the patient. This discussion will focus on the effects of common hormonal therapies including estrogen (local and systemic), progesterone, estrogen receptor agonist/antagonist, and local dehydroepiandrosterone and include a brief review of compounded bioidentical hormone therapy.
Establishment of a Disease‐Drug Trial Model for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis: A Zoledronic Acid Case Study
Authors: Lien Yi Ting (Kayla) , Madrasi Kumpal , Samant Snehal , Kim Myong‐Jin , Li Fang , Li Li , Wang Yaning , Schmidt Stephan
Published: December 2020

Costly and lengthy clinical trials hinder the development of safe and effective treatments for postmenopausal osteoporosis. To reduce the expense associated with these trials, we established a mechanistic disease‐drug trial model for postmenopausal osteoporosis that can predict phase 3 trial outcome based on short‐term bone turnover marker data. To this end, we applied a previously developed model for tibolone to bisphosphonates using zoledronic acid as paradigm compound by (1) linking the mechanistic bone cell interaction model to bone turnover markers as well as bone mineral density in lumbar spine and total hip, (2) employing a mechanistic disease progression function, and (3) accounting for zoledronic acid's mechanism of action. Once developed, we fitted the model to clinical trial data of 581 postmenopausal women receiving (1) 5‐mg zoledronic acid in year 1 and saline in year 2, (2) 5‐mg zoledronic acid in year 1 and year 2, or (3) placebo (saline), calcium (500 mg), and vitamin D (400 IU). All biomarker data was fitted reasonably well, with no apparent bias or model misspecification. Age, years since menopause, and body mass index at baseline were identified as significant covariates. In the future, the model can be modified to explore the link between short‐term biomarkers and fracture risk.
The Need for Synergy in Academic Policies: An Introduction to the Dialogue on Pre‐registration
Authors: Krishna Aradhna
Published: December 2020

There has been much debate on the need for preregistering experimental studies. Opinions differ with some people believing that “pre‐registration should be required—for us to believe the results of papers,” and others believing that “pre‐registration makes no difference to science and just adds work.” This research dialogue brings differing viewpoints together, in an open academic dialogue. Two target articles and two commentaries discuss what pre‐registration does for replicability of studies, and what cost it adds on authors and reviewers. Additionally, in my introduction to the research dialogue, I deliberate on the need for synergy between our journals, review teams, authors, and institutions, in order for any new policies on pre‐registration to be successfully adopted.
Safety and feasibility of dobutamine stress echocardiography in symptomatic high gradient aortic stenosis patients scheduled for transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Sævik Marte , Beitnes Jan O. , Aaberge Lars , Halvorsen Per S.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

We aimed to study the safety and feasibility of low‐dose dobutamine stress echocardiography in a symptomatic high gradient aortic stenosis population scheduled for transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and to quantify left ventricular (LV) flow reserve.

Methods

Fifty patients underwent dobutamine stress echocardiography with 5 minutes increments of 5 μg/kg/min up to 20 μg/kg/min until the heart rate increased ≥20 beats/min from baseline or exceeded 100 beats/min. Other criteria for discontinuing the infusion were major adverse events: ventricular arrhythmia, persistent supraventricular arrhythmia, pulmonary edema, chest pain with significant ST‐changes, or minor events: ST‐changes, drop in systolic blood pressure >30 mmHg, mild chest pain, and/or dyspnea. LV flow reserve was defined as an increase in stroke volume ≥20% during the test.

Results

Of 50 patients, 45 completed the test according to protocol. No patient had major adverse event. Five patients experienced minor side effects: mild chest pain/dyspnea in three, self‐terminating atrial flutter in one, and decrease in blood pressure in one. Significant LV flow reserve was observed in 20 patients (40%).

Conclusion

Low‐dose dobutamine stress test appeared safe and feasible patients with high gradient aortic stenosis, and showed LV flow reserve in a minority of them.
Reference Ranges, Diagnostic and Prognostic Utility of Native T1 Mapping and Extracellular Volume for Cardiac Amyloidosis: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wang Tom Kai Ming , Brizneda Maria Vega , Kwon Deborah H. , Popovic Zoran B. , Flamm Scott D. , Hanna Mazen , Griffin Brian P. , Xu Bo
Published: December 2020

Background

Cardiac MRI is central to the evaluation of cardiac amyloidosis (CA). Native T1 mapping and extracellular volume (ECV) are novel MR techniques with evolving utility in cardiovascular diseases, including CA.

Purpose

To perform a meta‐analysis of the diagnostic and prognostic data of native T1 mapping and ECV techniques for assessing CA.

Study Type

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Population

In all, 3520 patients including 1539 with CA from 22 studies retrieved following systematic search of Pubmed, Cochrane, and Embase.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T or 3.0T/modified Look–Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) or shortened MOLLI (shMOLLI) sequences.

Assessment

Meta‐analysis was performed for all CA and for light‐chain (AL) and transthyretin (ATTR) subtypes. Thresholds were calculated to classify native T1 and ECV values as not suggestive, indeterminate, or suggestive of CA.

Statistical Analysis

Area under the receiver‐operating characteristic curves (AUCs) and hazards ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were pooled using random‐effects models and Open‐Meta(Analyst) software.

Results

Six studies were diagnostic, 16 studies reported T1 and ECV values to determine reference range, and six were prognostic. Pooled AUCs (95% CI) for diagnosing CA were 0.92 (0.89–0.96) for native T1 mapping and 0.96 (0.93–1.00) for ECV, with similarly high detection rates for AL‐ and ATTR‐CA. Based on the pooled values of native T1 and ECV in CA and control subjects, the thresholds that suggested the absence, indeterminate, or presence of CA were identified as <994 msec, 994–1073 msec, and >1073 msec, respectively, for native T1 at 1.5T. Pooled HRs (95% CI) for predicting all‐cause mortality were 1.15 (1.08–1.22) for native T1 mapping as a continuous parameter, 1.19 (1.01–1.40) for ECV as a continuous parameter, and 4.93 (2.64–9.20) for ECV as a binary threshold.

Data Conclusion

Native T1 mapping and ECV had high diagnostic performance and predicted all‐cause mortality in CA.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
The ctnFgene is involved in citrinin and pigment synthesis inMonascus aurantiacus
Authors: Li Yanping , Wang Na , Jiao Xuexue , Tu Zhui , He Qinghua , Fu Jinheng
Published: December 2020

The application of Monascus is restricted by citrinin. So, it is important to explore the synthetic pathway of citrinin to completely inhibit the production of citrinin. In our previous study, we found that the protein encoded by the ctnF gene has a significant similarity to fructose‐2,6‐bisphosphatase (F26BPase). It is generally known that the bifunctional enzyme F26BPase regulates the glycolytic flux. So, we speculated that the CtnF protein strengthens carbon flux towards acetyl‐CoA and malonyl‐CoA which are precursor compounds in citrinin and pigment synthesis. In this study, the ctnF gene‐targeting vector pctnF‐HPH was constructed and transformed into Monascus aurantiacus. A ctnF‐deficient strain was selected by four sets of primers and polymerase chain reaction amplification. Compared with the wild‐type strain, citrinin content in the deficient strain was reduced by 34%, and the pigment production was decreased by 72%. These results indicate that the ctnF gene is involved in the common synthesis of citrinin and pigment, which is consistent with previous speculations.
The blessing of the “year without summer”: Climatic and socioeconomic impact of the Krakatoa eruption (1883) in the south‐east of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Gil‐Guirado Salvador , Olcina‐Cantos Jorge , Pérez‐Morales Alfredo
Published: December 2020

In the current context of climate change–induced warming, interest in analysing the impact of volcanic eruptions on the climate has renewed. The main conclusions from related papers indicate that volcanic eruptions alter the terrestrial radiative balance and cause cooling in the years after an eruption: known as “years without summer.” These episodes of cyclical cooling have been related to negative socio‐economic impacts (such as crop reduction, famine, and social unrest). However, the effect on precipitation has been studied less. Detailed studies on the economic impact of large eruptions are scarce, especially for historical eruptions. This study analysed the effects of the 1883 Krakatoa eruption on temperature and precipitation in the south‐east of the Iberian Peninsula and related economic and social effects. It was concluded that this eruption incited a significant decrease in maximum temperatures and stability, an increase in minimum temperatures, a decrease in average temperatures, and a significant increase in rainfall. This climatic context produced a decrease in cereal prices and a reduction in climatic risks (droughts and frosts). Therefore, the effects of the eruption of Krakatoa improved socioeconomic conditions in the south‐eastern Iberian Peninsula.
Proteins associated with quality deterioration of prepared chicken breast based on differential proteomics during refrigerated storage
Authors: Luo Xin , Dong Kai , Liu Lan , An Fengping , Tang Daobang , Fu Lingyun , Teng Hui , Huang Qun
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Prepared chicken breast deterioration is a complex biochemical process, of which protein change is one of the main features. The present research focuses on the analysis of proteins related to the deterioration in quality of prepared chicken breast through differential proteomics analysis.

RESULTS

The physicochemical indexes of prepared chicken breast showed that quality gradually decreased at the second week of refrigerated storage, while the deterioration of chicken breast meat was obvious at the third week. Three key time points of quality change were determined to be at 0th, 2th and 5th week, respectively. In addition, 39 differential proteins were successfully identified using two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Most of the identified proteins showed significant differences in expression at the three key points of storage, of which actin, myosin, α‐1,4‐glucan phosphorylase, phosphoglucomutase 1, heat shock protein β‐1, tubulin β‐7 chain and skeletal muscle type tropomodulin (fragment) were closely related to the quality deterioration of prepared chicken breast, and thus potential indicator proteins to evaluate the quality of chicken breast.

CONCLUSION

The current study indicated that the physicochemical quality of prepared breast notably changed during refrigerated storage. Three key time points of quality change in the storage process of prepared chicken breast were determined. Furthermore, differential proteomics identified the key proteins related to freshness, which provides a theoretical basis for exploring the mechanism of chicken breast deterioration. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
The challenge of exploiting polyphenols from olive leaves: addition to foods to improve their shelf‐life and nutritional value
Authors: Difonzo Graziana , Squeo Giacomo , Pasqualone Antonella , Summo Carmine , Paradiso Vito M , Caponio Francesco
Published: December 2020

Olive leaves represent a waste from the olive oil industry which can be reused as source of polyphenols. The most representative phenolic compound of olive leaves is the secoiridoid oleuropein, followed by verbascoside, apigenin‐7‐O‐glucoside, luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside, and simple phenols. The attention towards these compounds derives above all from the large number of studies demonstrating their beneficial effect on health, in fact olive leaves have been widely used in folk medicine in the Mediterranean regions. Moreover, the growing demand from consumers to replace the synthetic antioxidants, led researchers to conduct studies on the addition of plant bioactives in foods to improve their shelf‐life and/or to obtain functional products. The current study overviews the findings on the addition of polyphenol‐rich olive leaf extract (OLE) to foods. In particular, the effect of OLE addition on the antioxidant, microbiological and nutritional properties of different foods is examined. Most studies have highlighted the antioxidant effect of OLE in different food matrices, such as oils, meat, baked goods, vegetables, and dairy products. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of OLE has been observed in meat and vegetable foods, highlighting the potential of OLE as a replacer of synthetic preservatives. Finally, several authors studied the effect of OLE addition with the aim of improving the nutritional properties of vegetable products, tea, milk, meat and biscuits. Advantages and drawbacks of the different use of OLE were reported and discussed. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Fabrication and characterization of Pickering emulsion gels stabilized by zein/pullulan complex colloidal particles
Authors: Liu Qian , Chang Xia , Shan Yang , Fu Fuhua , Ding Shenghua
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Zein particles are unsuitable as stabilizers of Pickering emulsions because of their high hydrophobicity. However, few studies have reported on the use of a strong hydrophilic neutral polysaccharide to regulate its wettability. In this work, zein/pullulan complex particles (ZPPs) were formulated by an anti‐solvent method to fabricate Pickering emulsions.

RESULTS

The presence of pullulan increased the size, decreased the zeta, and provided excellent resistance to the gravitational separation of zein. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that the shape of zein particles changed from spherical as they became aggregated ZPP nanoparticles. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated that the flocculation phenomenon of ZPPs was related to the hydrogen bond between zein and pullulan. Moreover, the hydrophobicity of zein was modified by hydrophilic pullulan to endow the ZPPs with nearly neutral wettability when the mass ratio was 15:1, allowing for the preparation of stable Pickering emulsions. In contrast to zein, the ZPPs contributed to building a compact interface layer around the droplets and smaller emulsion droplets. Under a certain ZPP concentration, the size and viscosity of emulsion increased with an increase in the oil volume fraction, indicating that the Pickering emulsions stabilized by ZPPs showed better stability against coalescence. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) revealed that the ZPPs constructed a dense filling layer on the surface of oil droplets, thus further emphasizing that ZPPs can potentially be used in fabricating Pickering emulsion gels.

CONCLUSION

Zein/pullulan complex particles are an excellent Pickering emulsion gel stabilizer that can be used in the delivery system of bioactive substances in food formulations. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
COVID‐19 induced emergent knowledge strategies
Authors: Bratianu Constantin , Bejinaru Ruxandra
Published: December 2020

The pandemic of COVID‐19 is considered the most complex global process generated so far due to its unprecedented power of disruption, interconnection, and lockdowns in all the domains of our life, from health to economy, education, research, culture, sports, and social isolation. The COVID‐19 crisis came like any other natural disaster, finding people and organizations unprepared for disruptive power and social nexus. The unthinkable became a reality, and people realized that organizations and governments have no strategies to fight against such a pandemic. They found out that the strategic knowledge gap is enormous, and the only way to navigate this crisis is to create emergent knowledge strategies. This paper aims to analyze the characteristics of emergent knowledge strategies by comparing them with deliberate knowledge strategies and showing how people can develop such new kinds of strategies. The analysis is based on criteria like time perception, systems thinking, type of knowledge, type of changes, and complexity.