bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the feasibility of random waypoint model for indoor wireless networks
Authors: Shao Sihua , Khreishah Abdallah , Ayyash Moussa
Published: July 2020

Trace‐driven simulations supported by long‐term and human‐based indoor mobility traces are able to properly validate the effectiveness and efficiency of the algorithms, protocols or applications utilized in indoor wireless networks. Nevertheless, most of the mobility models adopted in the existing works are simplified variations of random waypoint (RWP) model. To evaluate the feasibility of RWP model, we extract the real‐time mobility trace of a one‐month period human‐based raw dataset and quantitatively compare the extracted trace to that of RWP model. The comparison results reveal the inaccuracy of RWP model. We also evaluate the use of the indoor mobility trace while studying different mobility‐aware problems of indoor wireless networks.
Agricultural product E‐commerce recommendation system based on neural factorization machine in smart cities
Authors: Huo Yucan
Published: July 2020

Recently, e‐commerce becomes a new way to sell agricultural products, such as orange, apple, tea, rice. For the farmers, they can obtain more earnings by avoid intermediate links. For the customers, they have more choices and can buy what they want. The e‐commerce directly links farmers and customers together and recommends personalized agricultural products to customers. In order to recommend proper agricultural products to customers, we propose an agricultural product e‐commerce recommendation system in which neural factorization Machine (NFM) is used as recommendation algorithm. NFM combines factorization machine (FM) and neural network (NN) and captures high‐order information between features. Therefore, the generalization of NFM is better than previous recommendation algorithms. Experimental results show that NFM can improve the recommendation accuracy of the agricultural product e‐commerce system about 3%‐4%.
FFTHR: Fitness Function based Two‐Hop Routing in WSN
Authors: Panchal Akhilesh , Singh Rajat K.
Published: July 2020

In Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), the Cluster Heads (CHs) are used for efficient data collection from the enormous number of randomly deployed sensor nodes. Since these CHs consume a massive amount of energy and degrade the lifetime of the network, thus reducing their energy consumption is the prime concern. In order to enhance the network lifetime, we are proposing the Fitness Function‐based Two‐Hop Routing (FFTHR) algorithm for inter‐cluster routing among all the CHs of the network. This algorithm depends on the residual energy of the CHs and their relative Equlidean distances from the Base Station (BS) as well as from their centroid. One of the CHs has been defined here as Central Cluster Head (CCH) based on their fitness value, and it uses single‐hop for transmitting their data packets to the BS while the remaining CHs use two‐hop. The simulation results exhibit that the FFTHR enhances the network lifetime and saves the energy consumption of the network as compared to the similar algorithm for example, REHR (Residual Energy based Hybrid Routing) and FCM (Fuzzy C‐Means).
Prediction for cardiovascular diseases based on laboratory data: An analysis of random forest model
Authors: Su Xi , Xu Yongyong , Tan Zhijun , Wang Xia , Yang Peng , Su Yani , Jiang Yangyang , Qin Sijia , Shang Lei
Published: July 2020

Background

To establish a prediction model for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in the general population based on random forests.

Methods

A retrospective study involving 498 subjects was conducted in Xi'an Medical University between 2011 and 2018. The random forest algorithm was used to screen out the variables that greatly affected the CVD prediction and to establish a prediction model. The important variables were included in the multifactorial logistic regression analysis. The area under the curve (AUC) was compared between logistic regression model and random forest model.

Results

The random forest model revealed the variables, including the age, body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), triglyceride (TG), systolic blood pressure (SBP), total cholesterol (TC), waist circumference, and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (HDL‐C), were more significant for CVD prediction; the AUC was 0.802 in CVD prediction. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis indicated that the risk factors for CVD included the age [odds ratio (OR): 1.14, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.10‐1.17, P < .001], BMI (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.06‐1.20, P < .001), TG (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.02‐1.22, P = .023), and DBP (OR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.02‐1.06, P = .001); the AUC was 0.843 in CVD prediction. The established logistic regression prediction model was Logit P = Log[P/(1 − P)] = −11.47 + 0.13 × age + 0.12 × BMI + 0.11 × TG + 0.04 × DBP; P = 1/[1 + exp(−Logit P)]. People were prone to develop CVD at the time of P > .51.

Conclusions

A prediction model for CVD is developed in the general population based on random forests, which provides a simple tool for the early prediction of CVD.
Age‐related decline of interferon‐gamma responses in macrophage impairs satellite cell proliferation and regeneration
Authors: Zhang Congcong , Cheng Naixuan , Qiao Bokang , Zhang Fan , Wu Jian , Liu Chang , Li Yulin , Du Jie
Published: July 2020

Background

Impaired muscle regeneration and increased muscle fibrosis are observed in aged muscle accompanied by progressive loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia). However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear.

Methods

The differentiated expressed genes in young and aged muscles after acute injury by cardiotoxin were identified by RNA‐sequence analysis. Single‐cell RNA‐sequence analysis was used to identify cell clusters and functions in young muscle after acute injury, and flow cytometry analysis and sorting were used to validate the function. The proliferation and differentiation functions of satellite cells were accessed by immunostaining with 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine and embryonic myosin heavy chain (eMyHC), respectively. Muscle regeneration ability was accessed by histopathological and molecular biological methods.

Results

Gene expression patterns associated with responses to interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) (15 genes; false discovery rate < 0.001) were significantly down‐regulated during muscle regeneration in aged mice (P = 2.25e−7). CD8+ T cells were the main source of increased IFN‐γ after injury, adoptive transfer of wild‐type CD8+ T cells to IFN‐γ‐deficient young mice resulted in 78% increase in cross‐sectional areas (CSAs) of regenerated myofibres (P < 0.05) and 63% decrease in muscle fibrosis (P < 0.05) after injury. Single‐cell RNA‐sequence analysis identified a novel subset of macrophages [named as IFN‐responsive macrophages (IFNRMs)] that specifically expressed IFN‐responsive genes (Ifit3, Isg15, Irf7, etc.) in young mice at 3 days after injury, and the number of this macrophage subset was ~20% lower in aged mice at the same time (P < 0.05). IFNRMs secreted cytokine C‐X‐C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL10) that promoted the proliferation and differentiation of satellite cells via its receptor, CXCR3. Intramuscular recombinant CXCL10 treatment in aged mice rejuvenated the proliferation of satellite cells (80% increase in Ki‐67+Pax7+ cells, P < 0.01) and resulted in 27% increase in CSA of regenerated myofibres (P < 0.01) and 29% decrease in muscle fibrosis (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our study indicates that decline in IFN‐γ response in a novel subset of macrophage contributes to satellite cells dysfunctions in aged skeletal muscles and demonstrates that this mechanism can be targeted to restore age‐associated myogenesis.
Bone grafting history affects soft tissue healing following implant placement
Authors: Kofina Vrisiis , Demirer Mutlu , Erdal Barbaros S. , Eubank Timothy D. , Yildiz Vedat O. , Tatakis Dimitris N. , Leblebicioglu Binnaz
Published: July 2020

Background

This study aimed to determine and compare soft tissue healing outcomes following implant placement in grafted (GG) and non‐grafted bone (NGG).

Methods

Patients receiving single implant in a tooth‐bound maxillary non‐molar site were recruited. Clinical healing was documented. Volume and content of wound fluid (WF; at 3, 6, and 9 days) were compared with adjacent gingival crevicular fluid (GCF; at baseline, 1, and 4 months). Buccal flap blood perfusion recovery and changes in bone thickness were recorded. Linear mixed model regression analysis and generalized estimating equations with Bonferroni adjustments were conducted for repeated measures.

Results

Twenty‐five patients (49 ± 4 years; 13 males; nine NGG) completed the study. Soft tissue closure was slower in GG (P < 0.01). Differential response in WF/GCF protein concentrations was detected for ACTH (increased in GG only) and insulin, leptin, osteocalcin (decreased in NGG only) at day 6 (P ≤0.04), with no inter‐group differences at any time(P > 0.05). Blood perfusion rate decreased immediately postoperatively (P < 0.01, GG) followed by 3‐day hyperemia (P > 0.05 both groups). The recovery to baseline values was almost complete for NGG whereas GG stayed ischemic even at 4 months (P = 0.05). Buccal bone thickness changes were significant in GG sites (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

History of bone grafting alters the clinical, physiological, and molecular healing response of overlying soft tissues after implant placement surgery.
Effects of different antidepressant classes on dental implant failure: A retrospective clinical study
Authors: Hakam Abeer Essam , Vila Gabriela , Duarte Poliana Mendes , Mbadu Marcia Phemba , AI Angary Dania Sulaiman , Shuwaikan Hotoun , Aukhil Ikramuddin , Neiva Rodrigo , da Silva Hélio Doyle Pereira , Chang Jia
Published: July 2020

Background

Previous studies have suggested an association between taking antidepressants and dental implant failure. This study aimed to investigate the association of different antidepressant classes with dental implant failure.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients that received dental implants at the University of Florida from 2011 to 2016. The variables of implant failure, antidepressant use and classes (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRI], serotonin‐norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors [SNRI], tricyclic antidepressants [TCA], atypical antidepressants [AA], and monoamine oxidase inhibitors [MAOI]), age, sex, smoking, mild systemic diseases, and implant location were obtained from patients’ records. Odds ratio (OR) and confidence interval (CI) of implant failure in patients taking different antidepressant classes, in relationship to non‐antidepressant users, were estimated, and the influence of multiple variables on implant failure were investigated.

Results

A total of 771 patients and 1,820 implants were evaluated. The statistically significant predictors for implant failure included smoking (OR = 5.221), use of antidepressants (OR = 4.285), posterior maxilla location (OR = 2.911), mild systemic disease (OR = 2.648), and age (OR = 1.037) (P <0.05). The frequency of implant failure was 33.3% in TCA users, 31.3% in SNRI users, 6.3% in SSRI users, 5.2% in Atypical antidepressant users, and 3.9% in non‐users. Significant associations were observed between the use of SNRI (OR: 11.07; 95% CI: 3.265 to 33.82) and TCA (OR: 12.16; 95% CI: 1.503 to 71.58) and implant failure (P <0.05).

Conclusions

Users of antidepressants were at higher risk of implant failure than non‐users. Patients taking SNRI and TCA were at the highest risk of implant loss, when compared with non‐users. Conclusions about TCA, however, are based on a limited number of cases.
Okra pectin relieves inflammatory response and protects damaged intestinal barrier in caerulein‐induced acute pancreatic model
Authors: Xiong Baoyi , Zhang Wencheng , Wu Zeyu , Liu Rui , Yang Chengying , Hui Ailing , Huang Xusheng , Xian Zhaojun
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Protecting the intestinal mucosa from being destroyed helps reduce the inflammation caused by acute pancreatitis (AP). In this study, whether okra pectin (OP) could attenuate the inflammation of AP through protecting the intestinal barrier was investigated.

RESULTS

OP was obtained from crude okra pectin (COP) through the purification by DEAE cellulose 52 column. Supplementation with OP or COP in advance reduced the severity of AP, as revealed by lower serum amylase and lipase levels, abated pancreatic edema, attenuated myeloperoxidase activity and pancreas histology. OP or COP inhibited the production of pancreatic proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6. In addition, the upregulation of AP‐related proteins including ZO‐1, occludin, the antibacterial peptide‐defensin‐1 (DEFB1) and cathelicidin‐related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP), as well as the histological examination of colon injuries, demonstrated that OP or COP provision could effectively maintain intestinal barrier function. Ultimately, dietary OP or COP supplementation could inhibit AP‐induced intestinal inflammation. For the above, the effect of OP was better than COP.

CONCLUSION

Dietary OP supplementation could be considered as a preventive method that effectively interferes with intestinal damage and attenuates inflammatory responses trigged by AP. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Simultaneous separation and determination of 32 fentanyl‐related substances, including seven sets of isomeric fentanyl analogues, by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Yuxiao , Sheng Zhenhai , Hua Zhendong , Liang Chen , Cai Zhengyan , Wang Rong , Zhang Yurong
Published: July 2020

A method for separation and determination of 32 fentanyl‐related substances, including seven sets of isomeric fentanyl analogues, was developed using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry. The collision energy, chromatographic column, and mobile phase were optimized. All compounds were efficiently flushed out of a universal C18 column with a soft gradient consisting of solvent A (2 mM ammonium formate and 0.1% formic acid in water) and solvent B (2 mM ammonium formate and 0.1% formic acid in methanol) in only 20 min, achieving excellent resolution. Detection and analysis were carried out simultaneously in the positive ion mode using the full scan and data‐dependent tandem mass spectrometry modes with a normalized collision energy of 40. The method was validated in terms of limit of detection, limit of quantification, linearity, accuracy, and precision. For all fentanyl‐related substances, the limit of detection (0.5 ng/mL) and limit of quantification (1 ng/mL) were adequate for screening and quantification in daily drug control. Calibration curves for all compounds were established in the range of 1–500 ng/mL. The intra‐ and interday precision (RSD%) were within 0.4–2.3 and 0.7‐2.7%, respectively. The accuracy ranged from 99 to 106%. The method was applied to analyze seized drug samples.
Negative pressure face shield for flexible laryngoscopy in the COVID‐19 era
Authors: Hoffman Henry T. , Miller Robert M. , Walsh Jarrett E. , Stegall Helen R. , Diekema Daniel J.
Published: July 2020

Objective

Introduce novel methods and materials to limit microdroplet spread when performing transnasal aerosol generating procedures in the COVID‐19 era.

Methods

Prototypes of a negative pressure face shield (NPFS) were tested then used clinically to create a suction‐clearing negative pressure microenvironment with controlled access to the nose and mouth. Air pressure measurements within prototypes were followed by prospective evaluation of 30 consecutive patients treated with the device assessed through questionnaires and monitoring oximetry.

Results

The NPFS is a transparent acrylic barrier with two anterior instrumentation ports and a side port to which continuous suction is applied. It is positioned on a stand and employs a disposable antimicrobial wrap to secure an enclosure around the head. This assembly was successfully used to complete transnasal laryngoscopy in all 30 patients studied. Tolerance of the design was excellent, with postprocedure questionnaire identifying no shortness of breath (27/30), no claustrophobia (27/30), no pain (29/30), and no significant changes in pulse oximetry.

Conclusion

Diagnostic laryngoscopy was successfully performed in a negative pressure microenvironment created to limit dispersion of aerosols. Further application of the NPFS device is targeted for use with transnasal laryngeal laser and biopsy procedures to be followed by additional modification to enable intranasal and intraoral procedures in a similar protected environment.

Level of Evidence

Level 2b (Cohort Study).
Resolving marine dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) composition in a coastal estuary
Authors: Bell Douglas W. , Pellechia Perry J. , Ingall Ellery D. , Benitez‐Nelson Claudia R.
Published: July 2020

A mechanistic understanding of dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) utilization, and its role in the marine P cycle, requires knowledge of DOP molecular composition. In this study, a recently developed approach coupling electrodialysis and reverse osmosis with solution 31P‐NMR analysis was used to examine DOP composition within a tidally dominated salt‐marsh estuary (North Inlet, South Carolina) over seasonal and tidal time frames. The isolation technique allowed for near complete recovery of the DOP pool (90% ± 13%; n = 12) with six broad compound classes quantified: phosphonates, phosphomonoesters, phosphodiesters, pyrophosphate, di‐ and tri‐phosphate nucleotides (nucleoPα), and polyphosphate. Our results indicate that phosphomonoesters (ca. 61%) and phosphodiesters (ca. 31%) comprise the majority of the DOP pool, with relatively small contributions from pyrophosphates (ca. 4%), phosphonates (ca. 2%), nucleoPα (ca. 1%), and polyphosphates (ca. 1%). The study found no significant differences in DOP composition or concentration between tidal stages, despite significant tidal changes in dissolved organic nitrogen (DON):DOP stoichiometry. Significant seasonal variation was observed, with higher concentrations of phosphonates, nucleoPα, and monophosphates and lower phosphomonoester concentrations in Fall relative to all other seasons. We hypothesize that these seasonal variations reflect the balance between specific compound class seasonal production, lability, and local P demands associated with marine vs. terrestrial sources. Our results indicate that DOP composition exists at a dynamic equilibrium that is strongly conserved across diverse marine environments.
Dual stable isotope characterization of excess methane in oxic waters of a mesotrophic lake
Authors: Tsunogai Urumu , Miyoshi Yuko , Matsushita Toshiyuki , Komatsu Daisuke D. , Ito Masanori , Sukigara Chiho , Nakagawa Fumiko , Maruo Masahiro
Published: July 2020

To determine the source of excess methane in oxic, surface‐water columns often found in freshwater environments, we measured the in situ concentration and stable isotopic compositions (δ13C and δ2H) of methane in Lake Biwa, a mesotrophic lake in Japan. The values from the littoral zone and lake‐floor sediments were determined, besides those in the water column of the pelagic zone. Furthermore, we conducted incubation experiments to measure microbial oxidation rates and alterations in the isotopic signatures of methane. We found significant vertical and seasonal variations in both in situ concentrations and stable isotopic compositions of methane measured in the pelagic zone. We concluded that active microbial oxidation was primarily responsible for the variation in δ13C and δ2H values of methane in the pelagic water column. As a result, we defined a new indicator Δ(2,13) to characterize the sources of dissolved methane, in which variations in both δ13C and δ2H during methane oxidation had been corrected. The excess methane in oxic, surface‐water columns exhibited Δ(2,13) values similar to those in the littoral zone. We concluded that excess methane at the surface of the pelagic zone originated from the littoral zone via lateral transport. Anoxic near sediments and inflowing rivers were responsible for methane enrichment in water of the littoral zone and in the surface water columns of the pelagic zone.
Exploiting Addition–Fragmentation Reactions to Produce Low Dispersity Poly(isobornyl acrylate) and Blocky Copolymers by Semibatch Radical Polymerization
Authors: Heidarzadeh Nina , Bygott Elizabeth G. , Hutchinson Robin A.
Published: July 2020

Solution radical homopolymerization of isobornyl acrylate (iBoA) under starved‐feed higher temperature conditions unexpectedly leads to polymer product with low dispersity (<1.3) compared to the polymerization of butyl acrylate (BA) under identical conditions. Both backbiting and β‐scission reactions occur, as the poly(iBoA) product contains close to 100% terminal double bond (TDB) functionality. However, the addition of monomer to the midchain radicals formed by backbiting is sterically hindered, greatly reducing both short and long‐chain branching. The poly(iBoA) macromonomer functions as an excellent addition–fragmentation agent, not only lowering dispersity but also providing a means to efficiently produce blocky acrylate copolymers through sequential monomer feeding in the starved‐feed semibatch process.
FIELDABLE MASS SPECTROMETRY FOR FORENSIC SCIENCE, HOMELAND SECURITY, AND DEFENSE APPLICATIONS
Authors: Evans‐Nguyen Kenyon , Stelmack Ashley R. , Clowser Phoebe C. , Holtz Jessica M. , Mulligan Christopher C.
Published: July 2020

Mass spectrometry is commonly used in forensic chemistry laboratories for sensitive, definitive analysis. There have been significant efforts to bring mass spectrometry analysis on‐site through the development of ruggedized, fieldable instruments. Testing samples in the field is of particular interest in forensic science, homeland security, and defense applications. In forensic chemistry, testing seized drugs in the field can significantly improve efficiencies in processing of related criminal cases. The screening of passengers and luggage at transportation hubs is a critical need for homeland security for which mass spectrometry is well suited to provide definitive answers with low false positive rates. Mass spectrometry can yield reliable data for military personnel testing sites for potential chemical weapons release. To meet the needs of the forensic and security communities fieldable mass spectrometers based on membrane inlet systems and hybrid gas chromatography systems have been developed and commercialized. More recently developed ambient ionization mass spectrometry methods can eliminate the time, equipment, and expertise associated with sample preparation, and so are especially appealing for on‐site analysis. We describe the development of fieldable mass spectrometry systems, with emphasis on commercially available systems that have been deployed for on‐site analysis of seized drugs, chemical warfare agents, explosives, and other analytes of interest to the forensic and security communities. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Mass Spec Rev
Genetic and pathological findings in a boy with psoriasis and C3 glomerulonephritis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wei Lei , Fang Ye , Cao Guanghai , Zhang Shufeng , Tian Ming , Shen Qian , Xu Hong , Liu Cuihua , Rao Jia
Published: July 2020

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis with complex genetic basis supported by family investigation. Renal involvement in psoriasis is sparsely studied and its pathogenesis is still unclear.

Methods and Results

We describe the case of a 7‐year‐old boy presented new onset of nephropathy two weeks after a flare‐up of psoriasis. His mother had a long history of psoriasis without abnormal urinalysis records. The case showed non‐nephrotic range proteinuria, microscopic hematuria without any other abnormal results including renal function, complement cascade, and ultrasound. Renal pathological demonstrated the diagnosis of C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN) showing mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis with C3 staining only, effacement of podocyte process and intramembranous electron dense deposit by electric microscopy. Parent‐child trio WES performed to screening the common variants of psoriasis susceptibility locus and also the rare variants associated with C3GN. We identified a missense single nucleotide polymorphism of CARD14 (*607211, rs34367357, p.Val585Ile) carried by the proband and his mother. Meta‐analysis proved the association of rs34367357 and psoriasis (p = 0.006, OR = 1.23). A hemizygouse mutation of CLCN5 (*300008, c.1904A＞G,p.Asn635Ser) was identified for diagnosis of Dent disease (*300009).

Conclusion

The case highlights the genetic study is necessary to facilitate disease differentiation in new onset of nephropathy with psoriasis in children.
Cheminformatics in Natural Product‐based Drug Discovery
Authors: Chen Ya , Kirchmair Johannes
Published: July 2020

This review seeks to provide a timely survey of the scope and limitations of cheminformatics methods in natural product‐based drug discovery. Following an overview of data resources of chemical, biological and structural information on natural products, we discuss, among other aspects, in silico methods for (i) data curation and natural products dereplication, (ii) analysis, visualization, navigation and comparison of the chemical space, (iii) quantification of natural product‐likeness, (iv) prediction of the bioactivities (virtual screening, target prediction), ADME and safety profiles (toxicity) of natural products, (v) natural products‐inspired de novo design and (vi) prediction of natural products prone to cause interference with biological assays. Among the many methods discussed are rule‐based, similarity‐based, shape‐based, pharmacophore‐based and network‐based approaches, docking and machine learning methods.
Stochastic sensitivity analysis of volcanic activity
Authors: Alexandrov Dmitri V. , Bashkirtseva Irina A. , Ryashko Lev B.
Published: July 2020

In the present paper, we study the stochastically induced behavior of a nonlinear volcanic model containing three prognostic variables: the plug velocity u, the pressure p under the plug, and the conduit volume V. The nouvelle phenomena of noise‐induced transitions from the equilibrium to the cycle in the bistability parametric zone and noise‐induced excitement with the generation of spike oscillations in the monostability zone are found in the presence of N‐shaped friction force. To study these phenomena numerically, we used the computations of random solutions, the phase trajectories and time series, the statistics of interspike intervals, and the mean square variations. To study these phenomena analytically, we applied the stochastic sensitivity function technique and the confidence domains method. This approach is used to predict the noise‐induced transition from a “dormant volcano” state to the “active volcano” mode. From the physical point of view, the volcano is capable to become active under the influence of external noises in the friction force, which model various compositions and properties of volcanic rocks. What is more, the volcanic plug can pop out when its slipping becomes heavy, and the volcano can erupt.
Analysis of ecological shifts in the two‐age structured population model with Allee effect and environmental noise
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina , Valenti Davide , Spagnolo Bernardo
Published: July 2020

We study noise‐induced transformations in the two‐age structured population model with the Allee effect and environmental fluctuations. In this bistable model, ecological shifts are associated mathematically with random transitions between basins of coexisting attractors. The following phenomena are revealed and studied: (i) noise‐induced extinction, (ii) stochastic regeneration, and (iii) excitement of random mixed‐mode oscillations. Constructive abilities of the analytical method of confidence domains are demonstrated in the parametric study of these phenomena.
Evaluation of renal ischemia‐reperfusion injury by magnetic resonance imaging texture analysis: An experimental study
Authors: Pan Liang , Chen Jie , Zha Tingting , Zou Liqiu , Zhang Jinggang , Jin Peijie , Luo Jiao , Xing Wei
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To explore the value of MRI texture analysis in evaluating the presence and severity of early renal ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI).

Methods

Healthy New Zealand rabbits were used (IRI group, N = 54; control group, N = 8). Rabbits in the IRI group underwent left renal artery clamping for 60 minutes. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed before and at 1, 12, 24, and 48 hours after IRI. The relationship between MRI texture features and histopathology parameters was assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficients. The diagnostic performance of texture features in kidney differentiation at different time points was assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

T2WI_S(3,‐3)Inverse_Difference_Moment had the strongest correlation with brush border destruction, tubular epithelial edema, necrosis, and cast (r = 0.56, −0.58, 0.62, and 0.69, respectively; all P < .001). BOLD_S(4,‐4)Correlation had the strongest correlation with interstitial inflammatory cell infiltration (r = 0.63, P < .001). SWI_S(4,4)Difference_Entropy had the strongest correlation with microvessel density (r = 0.61, P < .001). The areas under the curve for T2WI_S(3,‐3)Inverse_Difference_Moment, SWI_S(4,4)Difference_Entropy, and BOLD_S(4,‐4)Correlation in kidney differentiation before IRI and that at 1 and 12 hours after reperfusion were 0.76, 0.72, and 0.70, respectively; the values before IRI and at 24 and 48 hours after reperfusion were 0.84, 0.81, and 0.69, respectively. The area under the curve for T2WI_S(3,‐3)Inverse_Difference_Moment in kidney differentiation at 1 and 12 hours after reperfusion and that at 24 and 48 hours after reperfusion was 0.66.

Conclusion

Magnetic resonance imaging texture analysis can be used for evaluating the presence and severity of early renal IRI.
Practical computation of the diffusion MRI signal of realistic neurons based on Laplace eigenfunctions
Authors: Li Jing‐Rebecca , Tran Try Nguyen , Nguyen Van‐Dang
Published: July 2020

The complex transverse water proton magnetization subject to diffusion‐encoding magnetic field gradient pulses in a heterogeneous medium such as brain tissue can be modeled by the Bloch‐Torrey partial differential equation. The spatial integral of the solution of this equation in realistic geometry provides a gold‐standard reference model for the diffusion MRI signal arising from different tissue micro‐structures of interest. A closed form representation of this reference diffusion MRI signal called matrix formalism, which makes explicit the link between the Laplace eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of the biological cell and its diffusion MRI signal, was derived 20 years ago. In addition, once the Laplace eigendecomposition has been computed and saved, the diffusion MRI signal can be calculated for arbitrary diffusion‐encoding sequences andb‐values at negligible additional cost. Up to now, this representation, though mathematically elegant, has not been often used as a practical model of the diffusion MRI signal, due to the difficulties of calculating the Laplace eigendecomposition in complicated geometries. In this paper, we present a simulation framework that we have implemented inside the MATLAB‐based diffusion MRI simulator SpinDoctor that efficiently computes the matrix formalism representation for realistic neurons using the finite element method. We show that the matrix formalism representation requires a few hundred eigenmodes to match the reference signal computed by solving the Bloch‐Torrey equation when the cell geometry originates from realistic neurons. As expected, the number of eigenmodes required to match the reference signal increases with smaller diffusion time and higherb‐values. We also convert the eigenvalues to a length scale and illustrate the link between the length scale and the oscillation frequency of the eigenmode in the cell geometry. We give the transformation that links the Laplace eigenfunctions to the eigenfunctions of the Bloch‐Torrey operator and compute the Bloch‐Torrey eigenfunctions and eigenvalues. This work is another step in bringing advanced mathematical tools and numerical method development to the simulation and modeling of diffusion MRI.
Political campaigns in South Africa: Does celebrity endorsement influence the intention to vote?
Authors: Madinga Nkosivile Welcome , Maziriri Eugine Tafadzwa , Mototo Lebogang Thato , Chuchu Tinashe
Published: July 2020

From presidential campaigns to social awareness campaigns, celebrities have gradually become central fixtures in modern politics. They tend to be information platforms for candidates and parties they either clearly support or officially endorse. South African political parties raised eyebrows when they rallied the country's popular celebrities to publicly endorse them. Political parties spend a significant amount of money on celebrity endorsements as it is believed that celebrities can leverage “secondary brand associations”. This leads to the question: does the increased use of celebrity endorsements in political campaigns influence the intention to vote? The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of celebrity political endorsement on intentions to vote. Employing a quantitative research design, 227 respondents were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. The findings show that endorser credibility has a positive significant relationship with political party credibility and voters' intentions. The relationship between political party credibility and voters' intentions is also positive and significant. This study provides managerial implications, limitations and future research.
Entrepreneurship‐driven public management reforms in Southeast Asia: Critical implications for public accountability
Authors: Haque M. Shamsul
Published: July 2020

In recent decades, public management has been restructured worldwide for greater efficiency and innovation based on entrepreneurship‐driven models such as Reinventing Governance, New Public Management, and post‐NPM frameworks. The primary intent of these business‐like models is instilling entrepreneurship, which would encourage risk‐taking innovation, managerial autonomy, performance orientation, and customer choice. Such entrepreneurial orientation is embedded in organizational‐managerial reforms related to human resource management, budgeting framework, performance benchmarking, and so on. These entrepreneurship‐driven reforms have significant impacts on administrative structure, procedures, and norms affecting the process of public sector accountability. In line with such global trends, most countries in Southeast Asia have embraced some of these pro‐market business‐type reforms in public management to enhance its entrepreneurship, innovation, and competition, which have implications for managerial control, neutrality, regulation, and integrity required for public accountability. This article explores these entrepreneurship‐driven reforms in the region and evaluates their critical implications for the long‐established institutions, structures, and procedures of public accountability.
Randomized controlled and double‐blinded study of Caphosol versus saline oral rinses in pediatric patients with cancer
Authors: Immonen Egle , Aine Liisa , Nikkilä Atte , Parikka Mataleena , Grönroos Marika , Vepsäläinen Kaisa , Palmu Sauli , Helminen Mika , Peltomäki Timo , Lohi Olli
Published: July 2020

Background

Oral mucositis (OM) is a significant side effect of cancer treatment. The purpose of this study was to compare topically administered Caphosol to saline rinses in the prevention of mucositis in pediatric cancer patients.

Procedure

A controlled, double‐blinded, and randomized clinical crossover study recruited patients between 2 to 17.99 years of age who were diagnosed with a malignancy and were receiving either high‐dose methotrexate (≥1 g/m2), anthracycline, or cisplatin chemotherapy (NCT0280733). All patients received two 7‐day cycles of the mouth rinses; that is, one cycle of Caphosol and one cycle of saline in a randomized order. Oral changes and symptoms were evaluated using the World Health Organisation (WHO) toxicity scale and the Children's International Mucositis Evaluation Scale (ChIMES). The primary endpoint was the frequency and severity of OM and oral symptoms.

Results

A total of 56 patients were recruited to the study, of whom 45 were randomized with a median age of 6.5 years (range 2.1‐17.1 years). No cases of severe OM were observed. Grade ≥ 3 oral symptoms were present at least once in six (13%) patients during the Caphosol cycle and 13 (29%) patients during the saline cycle (P = .12). The peak of symptom scores was evident at around day 4‐7 after administration of the chemotherapy with no marked differences between the rinse solutions. Multivariable regression analysis did not indicate a benefit of using Caphosol over the saline solution.

Conclusions

No difference in prevention of oral mucositis was observed between the use of Caphosol or saline rinses.
Opioid prescribing on discharge to skilled nursing facilities
Authors: Hubsky Ashlee R. , Noble Brie N. , Hartung Daniel M. , Tjia Jennifer , Lapane Kate L. , Furuno Jon P.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Skilled nursing facility (SNF) residents are at increased risk for opioid‐related harms. We quantified the frequency of opioid prescribing among patients discharged from an acute care hospital to SNFs.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study among adult (≥18 years) inpatients discharged from a quaternary‐care academic referral hospital in Portland, OR to a SNF between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2018. Our primary outcome was receipt of an opioid prescription on discharge to a SNF. Our exposures included patient demographics (eg, age, sex), comorbid illnesses, surgical diagnosis related group (DRG), receiving opioids on the first day of the index hospital admission, and inpatient hospital length of stay.

Results

Among 4374 patients discharged to a SNF, 3053 patients (70%) were prescribed an opioid on discharge. Among patients prescribed an opioid, 61% were over the age of 65 years, 50% were male, and 58% had a surgical Medicare severity diagnosis related group (MS‐DRG). Approximately 70% of patients discharged to a SNF were prescribed an opioid on discharge, of which 68% were for oxycodone, and 52% were for ≥90 morphine milligram equivalents per day. Surgical DRG, diagnoses of cancer or chronic pain, last pain score, and receipt of an opioid on first day of the index hospital admission were independently associated with being prescribed an opioid on discharge to a SNF.

Conclusion

Opioids were frequently prescribed at high doses to patients discharged to a SNF. Efforts to improve opioid prescribing safety during this transition may be warranted.
Evaluation and application of poly(ethylene glycol) as lubricant in water‐based drilling fluid for horizontal well in Sulige Gas Field
Authors: Liu Xiongxiong , Gao Long , Wang Qingchen , Gu Xuefan , Du Weichao , Zhang Jie , Gang Chen
Published: July 2020

With the increasing amount of drilling of directional wells and large‐displacement wells, high torque and high resistance have become critical problems. Therefore, high‐performance and environment‐friendly lubricants for water‐based drilling fluid are urgently needed. In this paper, poly(ethylene glycol) 2000 (PEG) was used as a lubricant, and the lubricity, inhibition, compatibility and temperature resistance of the PEG lubricant were investigated. The results show that 0.1% (mass ratio) PEG in water‐based drilling fluid can reduce the friction coefficient of mud cake by 44.5%. This PEG also has certain inhibition and temperature resistance. As PEG is used with other drilling fluid additives, the compatibility was good and the lubricity of drilling fluid can be improved effectively. The lubricating mechanism of PEG was explored and the results showed that the hydrophobic alkane chains in the PEG molecules were adsorbed on the surface of bentonite, forming a hydrophobic film on the friction surface, thereby forming a lubricating layer. Field application in Sulige Gas Field showed that the PEG lubricant has good lubricity and can meet the technical requirements of corresponding horizontal wells. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Impact of Number of Drugs on Rehabilitation Outcomes in Patients after Traumatic Brain Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yamaoka Makiko , Chono Masayuki , Fukumoto Miki , Watanabe Tomomi , Fukaya Takeshi , Momosaki Ryo
Published: July 2020

Objective

To investigate the impact of the number of drugs on rehabilitation outcomes for patients with acute traumatic brain injury.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Hospital‐based database created by the Japan Medical Data Center.

Participants

Patients with acute traumatic brain injury admitted between April 2014 and November 2017.

Methods

Analysis of relationships among 1‐5 and ≥ 6 drugs as well as clinical outcomes in 2603 patients.

Main Outcome Measurements

The primary outcome was defined as the Barthel index efficiency, and the secondary outcome was Barthel index gain and length of hospital stay.

Results

Median Barthel index score on admission was 40. Barthel index efficiency and Barthel index gain were significantly higher in the group that had taken 1‐5 drugs than in the group that had taken ≥6 drugs on admission (median: 1.19 vs 0.50, 20.0 vs 10.0). Also, the group that had taken 1‐5 drugs had a significantly shorter length of hospital stay than in the group that had taken ≥6 drugs on admission (median 11.0 vs 14.0). Moreover, multiple linear regression analysis showed that having taken ≥6 drugs on admission was independently associated with Barthel index efficiency, Barthel index gain, and length of stay.

Conclusions

Taking≥6 drugs for acute traumatic brain injury was associated with lower Barthel index efficiency, lower Barthel index gain, and longer length of stay than taking 1‐5 drugs.
Crystal structure of chalcone synthase, a key enzyme for isoflavonoid biosynthesis in soybean
Authors: Imaizumi Riki , Mameda Ryo , Takeshita Kohei , Kubo Hiroki , Sakai Naoki , Nakata Shun , Takahashi Seiji , Kataoka Kunishige , Yamamoto Masaki , Nakayama Toru , Yamashita Satoshi , Waki Toshiyuki
Published: July 2020

Isoflavonoid is one of the groups of flavonoids that play pivotal roles in the survival of land plants. Chalcone synthase (CHS), the first enzyme of the isoflavonoid biosynthetic pathway, catalyzes the formation of a common isoflavonoid precursor. We have previously reported that an isozyme of soybean CHS (termed GmCHS1) is a key component of the isoflavonoid metabolon, a protein complex to enhance efficiency of isoflavonoid production. Here, we determined the crystal structure of GmCHS1 as a first step of understanding the metabolon structure, as well as to better understand the catalytic mechanism of GmCHS1.
Ascorbate sensitizes human osteosarcoma cells to the cytostatic effects of cisplatin
Authors: Oka Naohiro , Komuro Akiyoshi , Amano Hisayuki , Dash Suman , Honda Masahiko , Ota Kazushige , Nishimura Shunji , Ueda Takeshi , Akagi Masao , Okada Hitoshi
Published: July 2020

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common malignant bone tumor and a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths in children and adolescents. Current standard treatments for OS are a combination of preoperative chemotherapy, surgical resection, and adjuvant chemotherapy. Cisplatin is used as the standard chemotherapeutic for OS treatment, but it induces various adverse effects, limiting its clinical application. Improving treatment efficacy without increasing the cisplatin dosage is desirable. In the present study, we assessed the combined effect of ascorbate on cisplatin treatment using cultured human OS cells. Co‐treatment with ascorbate induced greater suppression of OS cell but not nonmalignant cell proliferation. The chemosensitizing effect of ascorbate on cisplatin treatment was tightly linked to ROS production. Altered cellular redox state due to increased ROS production modified glycolysis and mitochondrial function in OS cells. In addition, OS cell sphere formation was markedly decreased, suggesting that ascorbate increased the treatment efficacy of cisplatin against stem‐like cells in the cancer cell population. We also found that enhanced MYC signaling, ribosomal biogenesis, glycolysis, and mitochondrial respiration are key signatures in OS cells with cisplatin resistance. Furthermore, cisplatin resistance was reversed by ascorbate. Taken together, our findings provide a rationale for combining cisplatin with ascorbate in therapeutic strategies against OS.
A novel detonation arrester containing a large disk with long triangular slits: Design and numerical simulation
Authors: Yue Jianping , Long Wei , Liu Huaguo , Guo Shuaishuai
Published: July 2020

Aiming at the problem that common flame arresters can only extinguish deflagration flame, but cannot effectively extinguish detonation flame in large pipelines, this paper proposes a novel structure of detonation arrester based on heat transfer theory to improve the detonation flame extinguishing efficiency. The flame arresting element is composed of a large disk with long triangular slits and is used as the quenching part of detonation arrester in a monolithic structure. Compared with common flame arrester consists of several small fires retarding elements, the proposed monolithic structure is safer due to its integrity. In addition, this paper explores the relationship between flame extinguishing ability, detonation pressure, and temperature change. This investigation determined that the diameter of the quenching part and the parameters(length and height) of the long triangular slits were the key factors affecting the quenching characteristics, and as the diameter and porosity increase, the detonation pressure at the front of the flame arrester will decrease. Finally, the rationality and applicability of the structure are verified by simulation experiments. These preliminary conclusions are helpful to reveal the nature of the proposed structure and solve the technical problem of preventing detonation flame propagation of coal mine gas in large pipelines.
Protective role of Astragaloside IV in chronic glomerulonephritis by activating autophagy through PI3K/AKT/AS160 pathway
Authors: Lu Ruirui , Chen Junqi , Liu Bihao , Lin Hua , Bai Lixia , Zhang Peichun , Chen Dandan , Li Honglian , Li Jicheng , Pang Yu , Zhou Yuan , Zhou Jiuyao , Wu Junbiao
Published: July 2020

Astragaloside IV(AS‐IV), a saponin purified from Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge.var.mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao, has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. However, the underlying mechanisms in treating chronic glomerular nephritis (CGN) have not been fully understood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential mechanism of AS‐IV on CGN. CGN rats were administrated with AS‐IV at 10 mg·kg−1·d−1 (ASL) and 20 mg·kg−1·d−1 (ASH). Twenty four hour proteinuria, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum creatinine (SCr) were detected. Hematoxylin–eosin (HE) and periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS) staining were performed to evaluate the kidney lesion. Transmission electron microscope and GFP‐RFP‐LC3 transfection assay were used to monitor the effect of AS‐IV on autophagy. IL‐6 and IL‐1β were detected. The expression of CyclinD1, PI3K/AKT/AS160 pathway and autophagy related proteins were detected by Western Blot. The results demonstrated that AS‐IV improved kidney function, ameliorated kidney lesion, and diminished inflammatory in CGN rats. Further, both in vivo and vitro study demonstrated that AS‐IV inhibited the proliferation of mesangial cells. AS‐IV further displayed a remarkable effect on inhibiting the activation of PI3K/AKT/AS160 pathway and improved the activation of autophagy in vivo and vitro. These results suggested that AS‐IV is a potential therapeutic agent for CGN and merits further investigation.