bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nomogram based on inflammatory indices for differentiating intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma from hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chen Lang , Zeng Furong , Yao Lei , Fang Tongdi , Liao Mengting , Long Jing , Xiao Liang , Deng Guangtong
Published: January 2020

Objective

To establish nomogram based on inflammatory indices for differentiating intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

A cohort of 422 patients with HCC or ICC hospitalized at Xiangya Hospital between January 2014 and December 2018 was included in the study. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to identify the independent differential factors. Through combining these independent differential factors, a nomogram was established for differential diagnosis between ICC and HCC. The accuracy of nomogram was evaluated by using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA). The results were validated using a prospective study on 98 consecutive patients operated on from January 2019 to November 2019 at the same institution.

Results

Sex (OR = 9.001, 95% CI: 3.268‐24.792, P < .001), hepatitis (OR = 0.323, 95% CI: 0.121‐0.860, P = .024), alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) (OR = 0.997, 95% CI: 0.995‐1.000, P = .046), carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA199) (OR = 1.016, 95% CI: 1.007‐1.025, P < .001), and aspartate transaminase‐to‐neutrophil ratio index (ANRI) (OR = 0.904, 95% CI: 0.843‐0.969, P = .004) were the independent differential factors for ICC. Nomogram was established with well‐fitted calibration curves through incorporating these 5 factors. Comparing model 1 including gender, hepatitis, AFP, and CA199 (C index = 0.903, 95% CI: 0.849‐0.957) and model 2 enrolling AFP and CA199 (C index = 0.850, 95% CI: 0.791‐0.908), the nomogram showed a better discrimination between ICC and HCC, with a C index of 0.920 (95% CI, 0.872‐0.968). The results were consistent in the validation cohort. DCA also confirmed the conclusion.

Conclusion

A nomogram was established for the differential diagnosis between ICC and HCC preoperatively, and better therapeutic choice would be made if it was applied in clinical practice.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Coupling of Propargylic Alcohols with Boronic Acids under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Qin Anni , Qian Hui , Chen Qin , Ma Shengming
Published: January 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

A highly efficient palladium‐catalyzed direct coupling of propargylic alcohols with organoboronic acids to synthesize tri‐ and tetra‐substituted allenes has been developed under mild reaction conditions. Many useful functional groups are tolerated in this process with high to excellent yields. Preliminary biological studies showed that several tri‐ and tetra‐substituted allenes exhibited potent anti‐diabetic activities.
Remote Chirality Transfer through Medium Cycle Formation/Intramolecular Hydride Transfer Cascade
Authors: Chen Juan , Liu Bo
Published: January 2020

Intramolecular hydride transfer has long been recognized as a powerful method to generate new stereogenic centers induced by the existing stereogenic center(s). Synthetically significant selectivities are usually obtained through 1,5‐hydride transfer within six‐ membered ring. This mini‐review focuses on a transannular hydride transfer generating up to three stereocenters simultaneously from a single stereogenic center through formation of medium rings, mostly eight‐membered rings, in mild reaction conditions. The corresponding linear products with multiple stereocenters are potentially useful building blocks for synthesis of complex molecules including polyketide natural products.
A parallel time‐varying earliest arrival path algorithm for evacuation planning of underground mine water inrush accidents
Authors: Du Yuanze , Wu Qiang , Zhao Yingwang , Zhang Xiaoyan , Yao Yi , Xu Hua
Published: January 2020

Evacuation planning is of importance to reduce casualties in underground mine water inrush accidents. Since the transit time depends on the water height along the spreading of the water inrush, finding a path with the minimum egress time through the roadway network is considered as a time‐varying shortest path problem. Such problem can be solved by the time‐varying earliest arrival path algorithm. However, although the algorithm can solve the problem in polynomial time, more improvements are demanded to meet the real‐time requirements of practical applications. In this study, a parallel time‐varying earliest arrival path algorithm is proposed in this regard. The vertex‐hyperedge network is recommended to represent the adjacency of vertices. Three parallel strategies, including the time‐based decomposition, adjacent‐vertex‐based decomposition, and the adjacent‐vertex‐based decomposition using vertex‐hyperedge network, are proposed for parallelism implementation. The OpenMP interface is employed to evaluate the performance of the proposed strategies on a share‐memory multi‐core computer. The experiment results show that all three strategies can decrease the run time of the algorithm while maintaining the reasonable accuracy. The best strategy is adjacent‐vertex‐based decomposition using vertex‐hyperedge network, which results in the 2‐fold speedup when the number of threads meets the degree of concurrency of the topology structure.
Respiratory outcomes with the use of a lower custom fit genioglossal‐effecting oral appliance
Authors: Garner Dena P. , Lamira Jensine
Published: January 2020

Objective

Sleep apnea research cites that an oral appliance, which places the mandible in a more forward position and the genioglossus (tongue muscle) on the floor of the mouth, improves aspects of the pharyngeal opening. Exercise science research has cited improvements in airway dynamics and physiological variables with oral appliance use during exercise. Thus, the purpose of this study was to design an oral appliance that would act on the genioglossus and determine if there were effects on respiratory parameters while exercising.

Materials and methods

Seventeen healthy subjects ages 18–43 participated in this study. Prior to the exercise protocol, the order of the oral applicance (OA) or no oral appliance (no OA) condition was randomly assigned to subjects, with subjects completing both conditions. Respiratory parameters (respiratory rate, ventilation, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) were measured between conditions while subjects ran for 10 min at steady state.

Results

The results demonstrated that both respiratory rate (25.97 BPM, OA and 28.35 BPM, no OA) and ventilation (47.66 l/min, OA and 50.34 l/min, No OA) were significantly lowered (p < .01) in the OA condition. There were no differences in carbon dioxide (1.89 l/min, no OA and 1.88 l/min, OA) or oxygen outcomes (2.17 l/min, no OA and 2.17 l/min OA).

Discussion

The outcomes from this study suggest that the design of the oral appliance elicits an effect on the genioglossus, thereby resulting in lowered respiratory rate and ventilation with no negative effects on oxygen uptake during exercise.
Reinventing conflict prevention? Women and the prevention of the reemergence of conflict in Burundi
Authors: Féron Élise
Published: January 2020

Based on interviews conducted in Burundi with representatives of women's groups, and in light of existing knowledge on conflict prevention and peacebuilding in divided societies, the article critically examines national and international efforts to prevent a re‐emergence of the conflict. It argues that conflict prevention initiatives led by women's groups, though often overlooked and sidelined, could provide important insights for improving operational conflict prevention models. Through their multilevel, low‐key, inclusive, and versatile activities, Burundian women's organizations challenge and complement conventional operational conflict prevention practices that are often ill‐suited to the needs of intrastate conflicts.
Molecular Junctions on Polymeric Carbon Nitrides with Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Pan Zhiming , Niu Pingping , Liu Minghui , Zhang Guigang , Zhu Zhanghangyu , Wang Xinchen
Published: January 2020

Molecular catalysts (MC), namely homogeneous catalysts, have demonstrated great promise for efficient solar‐to‐chemical energy conversion in the hybrid system. However, the poor interfacial interaction between MC and photosensitizers (PS) impedes the efficient and fast interfacial electron transfer. To promote interfacial communication between PS and MC, a proof‐of‐concept method was developed for the combination of polymeric carbon nitride (PCN) PS with bipyridine cobalt [Co(bpy)32+] MC by covalent bonds, creating molecular junctions to promote interfacial electron transfer as confirmed by transient photoluminescence lifetime and electrochemical measurements. As a result, the binary photocatalyst [Co(bpy)32+/BINA2‐CN] showed extensively enhanced photocatalytic activity such as H2 and CO2 reduction in comparison with the physical mixture of Co(bpy)32+and PCN. This observation highlights the importance of construction of surface molecular junctions between PS and MC to accelerate the interfacial charge‐carrier mobility and, consequently, improve the photocatalytic activity.
Rapid On‐site Molecular Evaluation in thyroid cytopathology: A same‐day cytological and molecular diagnosis
Authors: De Luca Caterina , Sgariglia Roberta , Nacchio Mariantonia , Pisapia Pasquale , Migliatico Ilaria , Clery Eduardo , Gragnano Gianluca , Campione Severo , Vigliar Elena , Malapelle Umberto , De Dominicis Gianfranco , Bellevicine Claudio , Troncone Giancarlo
Published: January 2020

Background

Thyroid fine‐needle aspirates (FNAs) with undetermined morphology can be outsourced to centralized laboratories for comprehensive molecular profiling. When a local, rapid screening rules out easily detectable BRAF and NRAS mutations outsourcing is minimized, leading to cost savings. The fully automated Idylla technology, that does not require trained staff, is an emerging option. However, Idylla platform has only been validated to process formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) sections. Here we investigate whether also the FNA needle rinse could be genotyped by the same cytopathologist who performs the FNA, a procedure that can be termed rapid on site molecular evaluation (ROME).

Methods

To validate this approach, the Idylla BRAF and NRAS Test was performed on the rinses from 25 simulated (bench‐top) FNAs, in a first part of the study. Genotyping data were compared with those obtained on matched histological FFPE blocks. The second part of the study was carried out on 25 prospectively collected routine FNAs to assess the performance of the Idylla BRAF and NRAS assay against a gold standard real time polymerase chain reaction method.

Results

Idylla NRAS‐BRAF Mutation Test was performed on needle rinse as well as histological FFPE blocks. A sensitivity of 88.9%, a specificity of 100.0% were obtained comparing the Idylla NRAS‐BRAF Mutation Test on needle rinse to the reference method.

Conclusions

The FNA needle rinse can be directly genotyped. This obviates the need of cell block preparation, making possible a rapid combined morphological and molecular evaluation. Since DNA extraction is no longer necessary, the cytopathologist can perform ROME him/herself.
Diffuse right ventricular fibrosis in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Patel Ravi B. , Li Emily , Benefield Brandon C. , Swat Stanley A. , Polsinelli Vincenzo B. , Carr James C. , Shah Sanjiv J. , Markl Michael , Collins Jeremy D. , Freed Benjamin H.
Published: January 2020

Aims

While right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is associated with worse prognosis in co‐morbid pulmonary hypertension and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (PH‐HFpEF), the mechanisms driving RV dysfunction are unclear. We evaluated the extent and clinical correlates of diffuse RV myocardial fibrosis in PH‐HFpEF, as measured by cardiovascular magnetic resonance‐derived extracellular volume (ECV).

Methods and results

We prospectively enrolled participants with PH‐HFpEF (n = 14), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH; n = 13), and controls (n = 8). All participants underwent high‐resolution cardiovascular magnetic resonance, and case subjects (PH‐HFpEF and PAH) additionally underwent right heart catheterization. T1 mapping was performed using high‐resolution modified look‐locker inversion recovery with a 1 × 1 mm2 in‐plane resolution. RV free wall T1 values were quantified, and ECV was calculated. Participants with PH‐HFpEF were older and carried higher rates of hypertension and obstructive sleep apnoea than those with PAH. While RV ECV was similar between PH‐HFpEF and PAH (33.1 ± 8.0 vs. 34.0 ± 4.5%; P = 0.57), total pulmonary resistance was lower in PH‐HFpEF compared with PAH [PH‐HFpEF: 5.68 WU (4.70, 7.66 WU) vs. PAH: 8.59 WU (8.14, 12.57 WU); P = 0.01]. RV ECV in PH‐HFpEF was associated with worse indices of RV structure (RV end‐diastolic volume: r = 0.67, P = 0.01) and RV function (RV free wall strain: r = 0.59, P = 0.03) but was not associated with RV afterload (total pulmonary resistance: r = 0.08, P = 0.79). Conversely, there was a strong correlation between RV ECV and RV afterload in PAH (r = 0.57, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Diffuse RV fibrosis, as measured by ECV, is present in PH‐HFpEF and is associated with adverse RV structural and functional remodelling but not degree of pulmonary vasculopathy. In PH‐HFpEF, diffuse RV fibrosis may occur out of proportion to the degree of RV afterload.
Hepatoprotective effect of a novel lactic acid‐fermented garlic extract functional food product against acute liver injury
Authors: Kim Tae Min , Kim Ki Hoon , Jo Jeong Hyun , Park Joonghoon , Kwon Yong Sam , Yang Je Hoon
Published: January 2020

Lactic acid‐fermented garlic extract (LAFGE) has been shown to have hepatoprotective role in liver diseases. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a new LAFGE‐based hepatoprotective functional food product (named D‐18‐007) formulated with other additive components, including l‐arginine, l‐ornithine, and the leaf extract of licorice and artichoke. In a rat model of d‐galactosamine(GalN)/LPS‐induced liver injury, the survival was significantly higher in animals treated with D‐18‐007 than in animals treated with LAFGE. The hepatic injury was alleviated by either LAFGE or D‐18‐007, but the overall effect was more significant in D‐18‐007, as shown by the necrosis, histology, and serum analyses. Also, the decrease in GalN/LPS‐induced lipid peroxidation in the liver tissue was more significant in D‐18‐007 than LAFGE. The decrease in IL‐6 protein in the liver was similar between LAFGE and D‐18‐007. Moreover, we compared the amount of the bile in normal animals and found that D‐18‐007 has better choleretic activity than LAFGE. Using this acute liver injury model, our results suggest that D‐18‐007 has an enhanced hepatoprotective effect in acute liver injury compared with LAFGE alone.
Cortical lesions causing loss of consciousness are anticorrelated with the dorsal brainstem
Authors: Snider Samuel B. , Hsu Joey , Darby R. Ryan , Cooke Danielle , Fischer David , Cohen Alexander L. , Grafman Jordan H. , Fox Michael D.
Published: January 2020

Brain lesions can provide unique insight into the neuroanatomical substrate of human consciousness. For example, brainstem lesions causing coma map to a specific region of the tegmentum. Whether specific lesion locations outside the brainstem are associated with loss of consciousness (LOC) remains unclear. Here, we investigate the topography of cortical lesions causing prolonged LOC (N= 16), transient LOC (N= 91), or no LOC (N= 64). Using standard voxel lesion symptom mapping, no focus of brain damage was associated with LOC. Next, we computed the network of brain regions functionally connected to each lesion location using a large normative connectome dataset (N= 1,000). This technique, termed lesion network mapping, can test whether lesions causing LOC map to a connected brain circuit rather than one brain region. Connectivity between cortical lesion locations and an a priori coma‐specific region of brainstem tegmentum was an independent predictor of LOC (B= 1.2,p= .004). Connectivity to the dorsal brainstem was the only predictor of LOC in a whole‐brain voxel‐wise analysis. This relationship was driven by anticorrelation (negative correlation) between lesion locations and the dorsal brainstem. The map of regions anticorrelated to the dorsal brainstem thus defines a distributed brain circuit that, when damaged, is most likely to cause LOC. This circuit showed a slight posterior predominance and had peaks in the bilateral claustrum. Our results suggest that cortical lesions causing LOC map to a connected brain circuit, linking cortical lesions that disrupt consciousness to brainstem sites that maintain arousal.
Reactive stroma and trastuzumab resistance in HER2‐positive early breast cancer
Authors: Sonnenblick Amir , Salmon‐Divon Mali , Salgado Roberto , Dvash Efrat , Pondé Noam , Zahavi Tamar , Salmon Asher , Loibl Sibylle , Denkert Carsten , Joensuu Heikki , Ameye Lieveke , Van den Eynden Gert , Kellokumpu‐Lehtinen Pirkko‐Liisa , Azaria Amos , Loi Sherene , Michiels Stefan , Richard François , Sotiriou Christos
Published: January 2020

We investigated the value of reactive stroma as a predictor for trastuzumab resistance in patients with early HER2‐positive breast cancer receiving adjuvant therapy. The pathological reactive stroma and the mRNA gene signatures that reflect reactive stroma in 209 HER2‐positive breast cancer samples from the FinHer adjuvant trial were evaluated. Levels of stromal gene signatures were determined as a continuous parameter, and pathological reactive stromal findings were defined as stromal predominant breast cancer (SPBC; ≥50% stromal) and correlated with distant disease‐free survival. Gene signatures associated with reactive stroma in HER2‐positive early breast cancer (N = 209) were significantly associated with trastuzumab resistance in estrogen receptor (ER)‐negative tumors (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.27 p interaction = 0.014 [DCN], HR = 1.58, p interaction = 0.027 [PLAU], HR = 1.71, p interaction = 0.019 [HER2STROMA, novel HER2 stromal signature]), but not in ER‐positive tumors (HR = 0.73 p interaction = 0.47 [DCN], HR = 0.71, p interaction = 0.73 [PLAU], HR = 0.84; p interaction = 0.36 [HER2STROMA]). Pathological evaluation of HER2‐positive/ER‐negative tumors suggested an association between SPBC and trastuzumab resistance. Reactive stroma did not correlate with tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and the expected benefit from trastuzumab in patients with high levels of TILs was pronounced only in tumors with low stromal reactivity (SPBC <50%). In conclusion, reactive stroma in HER2‐positive/ER‐negative early breast cancer tumors may predict resistance to adjuvant trastuzumab therapy.
Multilayers of poly(ethyleneimine)/poly(acrylic acid) coatings on Ti6Al4V acting as lubricated polymer‐bearing interface
Authors: Deng Yaling , Sun Jianjun , Ni Xingya , Xiong Dangsheng
Published: January 2020

To achieve an efficient lubricated interface on titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) alloy, polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) polymer coatings, based on poly(ethyleneimine)/poly(acrylic acid) (PEI/PAA), were fabricated on the surface of Ti6Al4V alloy substrates using the layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly technique. Their composition and morphology were confirmed by Fourier‐transform infrared/attenuated total reflectance (FTIR/ATR) spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The tribological properties were investigated by a ball‐on‐disk rotating tribometer using deionized water, saline, and calf serum. The results exhibit that (PEI/PAA)*n coatings have the internal cross‐linked network and porous structure on the surface. The surface of PEI/PAA coatings‐modified Ti6Al4V shows the sufficient wettability. The polymer‐bearing interface of (PEI/PAA)*10 exhibits a low friction coefficient, 0.059, for 2 hr, and represents an 88% decline compared with bare Ti6Al4V. Moreover, the wear track on the polymer‐bearing interface is superlow. There is no obvious wear volume, which indicates effective wear resistance. The hydrated layer, the cross‐linked network structure, and the porous structure of PEM coatings are the main factors for efficient tribological properties. The multilayer PEI/PAA coating shows the potential uses of developing the lubricated‐bearing interface on Ti6Al4V alloy.
Triptolide inhibits CD133+/CD44+ colon cancer stem cell growth and migration through triggering apoptosis and represses epithelial‐mesenchymal transition via downregulating expressions of snail, slug, and twist
Authors: Acikgoz Eda , Tatar Cansu , Oktem Gulperi
Published: January 2020

High recurrence and metastatic behavior patterns are the most important reasons for the failure of treatment strategies in patients with colon cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are considered root of cancer, are thought to be associated with therapy resistance, relapse, and metastasis, and, therefore, targeting CSCs rather than the bulk population may be an effective approach. In cancer studies, there is an increasing interest in close friendship between epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and CSCs. Triptolide (TPL) isolated from Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii has important effects on the prevention of migration and metastasis as well as cytotoxic effect against cancer cells. The potential lethal efficacy of TPL on CSCs that is highly resistant to the drug is an unsolved mystery. Fundamentally, the present study basically aims to find answers to two questions: (a) is it possible to target colon CSCs with TPL? and (b) what are the mechanisms underlying TPL's potential to eliminate CSCs? Cytotoxic effects of TPL on CSCs were evaluated by WST‐1 and Muse count and viability assays. Apoptosis assay and cell‐cycle analysis were performed to investigate the inhibitory effect of TPL. Moreover, the effects of TPL on spheroid formation capacity, migration, and EMT processes, which are associated with CSC phenotype, were also investigated. The results revealed that TPL triggered cell death and apoptosis and altered cell cycle distribution. Moreover, TPL significantly reduced the snail slug and twist expressions associated with EMT. TPL has been shown to be effective in colon CSCs by in vitro experiments, and it might be a highly effective agent against colon cancer has been implicated in need of supporting in vivo and clinical studies.
Isolation and characterization of breast cancer stem cell‐like phenotype by Oct4 promoter‐mediated activity
Authors: Ghanei Zahra , Jamshidizad Abbas , Joupari Morteza Daliri , Shamsara Mehdi
Published: January 2020

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subset of cancer cells responsible for self‐renewal activity, drug resistance, and tumor recurrence. CSCs have been derived from diverse tumors and cell lines. The expression of stemness markers has been identified in CSCs. Oct4 is a well‐established transcription factor expressed in stem cells and CSCs. In this study, we isolated and characterized breast CSC‐like cells from murine MC4‐L2 cells by Oct4 promoter‐mediated activity. The MC4‐L2 cells were electroporated by a plasmid expressing puromycin resistance (PuroR) gene from the Oct4 promoter and then selected by puromycin. The isolated cells were named as the MC4‐L2puro cells and characterized for CSCs properties. Immunostaining indicated CD44high and CD24high phenotype for the MC4‐L2 and MC4‐L2puro cells. The enhanced expression of stem cell markers was detected in the puromycin‐selected cells compared with the parental cells. Moreover, the isolated cells only grew up in sphere‐formed shape in low attachment plates. Serial dilution transplantation in syngeneic mouse models showed increased tumorigenicity of the MC4‐L2puro cells, as they induced new tumors when injected into the mammary fat pad as few as 104 cells. In conclusion, we designed a novel genetic construct, which allows the isolation of Oct4‐positive cells in a cancer population by a simple selection step in a puromycin‐containing medium. Transfection of this construct into the MC4‐L2 cells resulted in growing a subpopulation of cells having tumor‐initiating cell characteristics. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the isolation of CSC‐like cells from the mouse breast cancer MC4‐L2 cells.
Microscopic investigation of pollen morphology of Brassicaceae from Central Punjab‐Pakistan
Authors: Amina Hafiza , Ahmad Mushtaq , Bhatti Ghulam Raza , Zafar Muhammad , Sultana Shazia , Butt Maryam Akram , Bahadur Saraj , Haq Ihsan‐Ul , Ghufran Muhammad Asad , Lubna  , Ahmad Shafiq , Ashfaq Shomaila
Published: January 2020

The intention of the current study is to provide an account on the palynological features of Brassicaceae from Central Punjab‐Pakistan as a basis for future studies. Different morpho‐palynological characteristics both qualitative and quantitative were analyzed during this research which includes shape of pollen, diameter of pollen, P/E ratio, exine sculpturing, thickness of exine, type of pollen, shape and size of lumens, and thickness of murus. Taxonomic keys were also constructed based on pollen morphological characters for correct identification of species. This study aims to provide detailed information of pollen diversity and their exine structure based on both qualitative and quantitative characters by using Light microscopy and Scanning electron microscopy. Shape of pollen is mostly prolate, but some species also have sub‐prolate to spheroidal prolate types. Exine ornamentation in most species was reticulate, whereas micro reticulate (one species) and coarsely reticulate (one species) exine also observed in some pollen. All the pollen mentioned in this study have tricolpate apertures. Variation found in thickness of exine and other characters proved to be helpful at generic and specific level. The results reinforced the significance of pollen morphological features of family Brassicaceae and aid for valuable taxonomic tool in plant systematics.
Trading‐off innovation novelty and information protection in supplier selection for a new product development project: Supplier ties as signals
Authors: Yan Tingting , Yang Yang , Dooley Kevin , Chae Sangho
Published: January 2020

A supplier's interorganizational ties can be a source of novelty as well as information leakage risk when a buyer involves suppliers in a new product development project. We use signaling theory to explain how supplier ties affect a purchasing manager's perception of suppliers. Three types of supplier ties are considered: ties with external innovation partners, with customers outside the buying firm's industry, and with the buying firm's competitors. We posit that managers use supplier ties as signals to indicate a supplier's potential in contributing to innovation novelty or information protection. Results from two scenario‐based experiments with practicing managers support most of our hypotheses. When innovation novelty is the goal, managers perceive other‐industry customer ties and external innovation ties as positive signals, while competitor ties as a negative signal. When information protection is the goal, all three types of ties are perceived negatively. When both goals are considered, information protection has a greater influence than innovation novelty on the final supplier selection likelihood.
The New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire: Unsuitable as an Outcome in Clinical Trials?
Authors: Hulzinga Femke , Nieuwboer Alice , Dijkstra Bauke W. , Mancini Martina , Strouwen Carolien , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Ginis Pieter
Published: January 2020

Background

Freezing of gait (FOG) is a common gait deficit in Parkinson's disease. The New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (NFOG‐Q) is a widely used and valid tool to quantify freezing of gait severity. However, its test‐retest reliability and minimal detectable change remain unknown.

Objective

To determine the test‐retest reliability and responsiveness of the NFOG‐Q.

Methods

Two groups of freezers, involved in 2 previous rehabilitation trials, completed the NFOG‐Q at 2 time points (T1 and T2), separated by a 6‐week control period without active intervention. Sample 1 (N = 57) was measured in ON and sample 2 (N = 14) in OFF. We calculated various reliability statistics for the NFOG‐Q scores between T1 and T2 as well as correlation coefficients with clinical descriptors to explain the variability between time points.

Results

In sample 1 the NFOG‐Q showed modest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.68 [0.52–0.80]) without differences between T1 and T2. However, a minimal detectable change of 9.95 (7.90–12.27) points emerged for the total score (range 28 points, relative minimal detectable change of 35.5%). Sample 2 showed largely similar results. We found no associations between cognitive‐related or disease severity–related outcomes and variability in NFOG‐Q scores.

Conclusions

We conclude that the NFOG‐Q is insufficiently reliable or responsive to detect small effect sizes, as changes need to go beyond 35% to surpass measurement error. Therefore, we warrant caution in using the NFOG‐Q as a primary outcome in clinical trials. These results emphasize the need for robust and objective freezing of gait outcome measures.
Pluggable SDN framework for managing heterogeneous SDN networks
Authors: Moeyersons Jerico , Maenhaut Pieter‐Jan , Turck Filip , Volckaert Bruno
Published: January 2020

Software‐defined networking (SDN) is a new network paradigm that is separating the data plane and the control plane of the network, making one or more centralized controllers to supervise the behaviour of the entire network. Different types of SDN controller software exist, and research dealing with the difficulties of consistently integrating these different controller types has mostly been declared future work. In this paper, the Domino framework is proposed, a pluggable SDN framework for managing heterogeneous SDN networks. In contrast to related work, the proposed framework allows research into SDN networks controlled by different types of SDN controllers attempting to standardize the northbound API of them. Domino implements a microservice plugin architecture where users can link different SDN networks to a processing algorithm. Such an algorithm allows for, eg, adapting the flows by building a pipeline using plugins that either invoke other SDN operations or generic data processing algorithms. The Domino framework is evaluated by implementing a proof‐of‐concept implementation, which is tested on the initial requirements. It achieves the modifiability and the interoperability with an average successful exchange ratio of 99.99%. The performance requirements are met for the frequently used commands with an average response time of 0.26 seconds, and the framework can handle at least 72 plugins simultaneously depending on the available amount of RAM. The proposed framework is evaluated by means of the implementation of a shortest path routing algorithm between heterogeneous SDN networks.
Adipose Tissue Macrophage Phenotypes and Characteristics: The Key to Insulin Resistance in Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Ni Yinhua , Ni Liyang , Zhuge Fen , Xu Liang , Fu Zhengwei , Ota Tsuguhito
Published: January 2020

Obesity is one of the most serious global health problems, with an incidence that increases yearly and coincides with the development of a variety of associated comorbidities (e.g., type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, some immune‐related disorders). Although many studies have investigated the pathogenesis of overweight and obesity, multiple regulatory factors underlying the onset of obesity‐related metabolic disorders remain elusive. Macrophages contribute to modulation of obesity‐related inflammation and insulin resistance (IR); adipose tissue macrophages are particularly important in this context. Based on newly identified links between the chemokine system and obesity, macrophage polarization has become an essential target of new therapies for obesity‐related IR. The findings of multiple studies imply that variations in gut microbiota and its metabolites might contribute to the regulation of obesity and related metabolic disorders. Recently, several novel antidiabetic drugs, applied as treatment for weight loss, were shown to be effective for obesity‐induced IR and other comorbidities. The present review will discuss the properties and functions of macrophages in adipose tissue under conditions of obesity from three perspectives: the chemokine system, the gut microbiota, and antidiabetic drug application. It is proposed that macrophages might be a key therapeutic target for obesity‐induced complications.
Characteristic of Langerhans cell histiocytosis in oral and maxillofacial regions
Authors: Shiiba Masashi , Baba Takao , Eizuka Keitaro , Kasamatsu Atsushi , Uzawa Katsuhiro , Takiguchi Yuichi , Tanzawa Hideki
Published: January 2020

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH） is a rare disease caused by excessive proliferation of Langerhans cells in various regions of the body. Previous studies have reported that 10% of LCH occurs in the oral and maxillofacial regions. In the oral and maxillofacial regions, swelling and pain are the typical symptoms, and jaw fracture and tooth loss are often seen in advanced cases. In this study, we present the results of a literature review of LCH that developed in the oral and maxillofacial regions. The history, pathological conditions, diagnosis, treatment, and progress of LCH are discussed.
Protein biomarkers for incident deep venous thrombosis in critically ill adolescents: An exploratory study
Authors: Tala Joana A. , Polikoff Lee A. , Pinto Matthew G. , Li Simon , Trakas Erin , Miksa Michael , Gertz Shira , Faustino Edward Vincent S. ,   for the THEIA Study Investigators
Published: January 2020

Background

There are no tests to identify critically ill children at high risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). In this exploratory study, we aimed to identify proteins that are associated with incident DVT in critically ill adolescents.

Procedure

Plasma samples were obtained from critically ill adolescents within 24 hours after initiation of cardiopulmonary support. The adolescents were followed with ultrasound to detect the development of DVT of the lower extremity and clinically for bleeding. Thrombin‐antithrombin complex and prothrombin fragment 1+2 were measured using immunosorbent assays, whereas procoagulation and anticoagulation factors were measured using multiplex assays. Plasma samples were also analyzed using SOMAscan, an aptamer‐based capture assay. The associations between DVT and the log‐transformed level of the proteins were assessed using logistic regression adjusting for the presence of femoral venous catheter and severity of illness. Associations were expressed as odds ratio (OR) for every log‐fold increase in level of the protein with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Plasma from 59 critically ill adolescents, of whom 9 developed incident DVT, was analyzed. The median age of the adolescents was 15.1 years (interquartile range, 14.0‐16.7 years). Higher levels of thrombin‐antithrombin complex (OR: 31.54; 95% CI: 2.09‐475.92) and lower levels of factor XIII (OR: 0.03; 95% CI: 0.002‐0.44) were associated with DVT. CD36, MIC‐1, and EpoR were marginally associated with DVT. Only factor XIII was associated with clinically relevant bleeding (OR: 0.27; 95% CI: 0.08‐0.97).

Conclusions

We identified candidate protein biomarkers for incident DVT. We plan to validate our findings in adequately powered studies.
Effect of viscoelastic properties of the base polymer on extrusion foaming with thermally expandable microcapsules
Authors: Uchio Tomoki , Takiguchi Shota , Koda Tomonori , Nishioka Akihiro
Published: January 2020

Thermally expandable microcapsules (MCs) are applicable to the foam processing of polypropylene (PP). The purpose of this study is to clarify the influence of processing conditions, such as temperature, shear rate and resin selection, on the behavior of thermally expandable MCs in PP. In this study, MC was added to several types of PP and extrusion foaming was performed. The average diameter of the MCs after processing was calculated to characterize the expansion of PP including MCs. Two types of molecular architecture, homo‐ and impact‐PP, were examined in this study. The expansion behavior could be summarized by the shear viscosity at the extrusion die. Irrespective of the molecular architecture, data were summarized on one curve on a plane that expressed the relation between the shear viscosity and average MC diameter. Shear viscosity is thus an effective parameter to examine base resin selection for MC foaming. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:558–562, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers
Telehealth delivery of adherence and medication management system improves outcomes in inner‐city children with asthma
Authors: Lin Nancy Y. , Ramsey Rachelle R. , Miller James L. , McDowell Karen M. , Zhang Nanhua , Hommel Kevin , Guilbert Theresa W.
Published: January 2020

Healthcare disparities exist in pediatric asthma in the United States. Children from minority, low‐income families in inner‐city areas encounter barriers to healthcare, leading to greater rates of poorly controlled asthma and healthcare utilization. Finding an effective way to deliver high‐quality healthcare to this underserved population to improve outcomes, reduce morbidity and mortality, and reduce healthcare utilization is of the utmost importance. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of a novel school‐based care delivery model that incorporates video‐based telehealth (VBT) medical and self‐management visits with electronic inhaler monitoring to improve asthma outcomes. Over a 6‐month period, children from inner‐city, low‐income schools with uncontrolled asthma completed seven scheduled medical visits with an asthma specialist and five self‐management visits with an adherence psychologist at school using VBT. Composite Asthma Severity Index (CASI) scores and electronic inhaler monitor data were recorded and analyzed. A total of 21 patients were enrolled in the study. Study subjects with higher baseline severity (CASI ≥ 4 at visit 1) demonstrated a greater reduction in their score than those with lower baseline severity (CASI < 4 at visit 1). The CASI domains showed improvement in daytime symptoms, nighttime symptoms, and exacerbations. Adherence results demonstrated a significant improvement in adherence from baseline to postintervention. Study retention was 100%. This study demonstrates that a multicomponent medical and behavioral interventional program delivered by VBT to a school‐based setting is feasible and can significantly improve asthma outcomes and care in a challenging population.
The effect of silicon doping on the geometrical structures, stability, and electronic and spectral properties of magnesium clusters: DFT study of SiMgn (n = 1‐12) clusters
Authors: Zhu Ben‐Chao , Zhang Shuai , Zeng Lu
Published: January 2020

Using the density functional theory (DFT) method at the B3LYP /6−311G (D) level, we studied how silicon doping affects the geometrical structure, stability, and electronic and spectral properties of magnesium clusters. The stable isomers of SiMg
n (n = 1‐12) clusters were calculated by searching numerous initial configurations using the CALYPSO program. The geometrical structure optimization shows that most stable SiMg
n (n = 3‐12) clusters are three‐dimensional. In addition, geometrical structure growth patterns show that some structures of SiMg
n clusters can be directly formed by replacing one Mg atom in the corresponding Mg
n + 1 cluster with one silicon atom, such as SiMg8 and Mg9 clusters. The stability of SiMg
n clusters is analyzed by calculating the average binding energy, fragmentation energy, and second‐order energy difference. The results show that SiMg
n clusters with n = 5 and 8 are more stable than others. MO contents analysis show that the Si 3p‐orbitals and Mg 3s‐orbital are mainly responsible for the stability of these two clusters. The results of the natural charge population (NCP) and natural electronic configure (NEC) analysis of the electronic properties reveal that the charges in SiMgn (n = 1‐12) clusters transfer from magnesium atoms to silicon frame, and electronic charge distributions are primarily governed by s‐ and p‐orbital interactions. In addition, the Vertical ionization potential (VIP), vertical electron affinity (VEA), and chemical hardness of ground sates of SiMg
n (n = 1‐12) clusters were studied in detail and compared with the experimental results. The conclusions show that the chemical hardness of most SiMg
n clusters are lower than that of pure Mg
n + 1 (n = 1‐12) clusters, except for n = 1 and 8. This indicates that the doping of silicon atom can always reduce the chemical hardness of pure magnesium clusters. Finally, the infrared and Raman spectral properties of SiMg5 and SiMg8 clusters were calculated and discussed in detail.
Rateless codes with adaptive parity allocation for satellite systems
Authors: Chan Satya , Kim Sooyoung
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we propose efficient parity allocation schemes when rateless codes are used in satellite communication systems in conjunction with an adaptive coding and modulation (ACM) scheme. ACM schemes are widely used in modern satellite communication systems to maintain the required error rate performance under channel impairment (such as rain fading observed in high‐frequency bands). The performance enhancement of ACM can be achieved by providing a good channel prediction and mode allocation method. In the case of a channel prediction or allocation error, rateless codes can be used as an effective means of retransmission to compensate for the performance degradation. After investigating the performance behaviour of rateless codes combined with ACM, we derive a mathematical formula to find the optimum parity length of the rateless code to be retransmitted to satisfy the target performance requirements. Simulation results described in this paper show that the proposed method can be used to enhance the error performance as well as spectral efficiency.
Effect of Group Size and Individual Characteristics on Intergroup Encounters in Primates
Authors: Majolo Bonaventura , deBortoli Vizioli Aurora , Martínez-Íñigo Laura , Lehmann Julia
Published: January 2020

Intergroup encounters are common in nonhuman primates and can vary from affiliative to aggressive. We extracted data from the literature to test five different hypotheses: 1) where there are group size differences between opposing groups, whether the larger group is more likely to win an intergroup encounter than the smaller group; 2) whether the likelihood of a group engaging in aggressive intergroup encounters increases with group size; and 3–5) whether dominant, older individuals, and/or males are more likely to participate aggressively in intergroup encounters than subordinate, younger individuals and/or females. Our data set comprised 52 studies on 31 primate species (3 lemur species, 5 New World monkeys, 19 Old World monkeys, and 4 apes). We found that the larger group is more likely to win an encounter against a smaller group than vice versa. We found no significant relationship between group size and propensity to be aggressive during intergroup encounters. We found weak/no support for the effect of age, dominance rank, and sex on the frequency of aggression displayed toward outgroup individuals during intergroup encounters. Species- and population-specific differences in inter- and intragroup competition and in the degree of the unequal distribution of resources across group members may explain why age, dominance rank, and sex are not strong predictors of aggression during intergroup encounters.
Elimination of cyanobacteria and microcystins in irrigation water—effects of hydrogen peroxide treatment
Authors: Spoof Lisa , Jaakkola Sauli , Važić Tamara , Häggqvist Kerstin , Kirkkala Terhi , Ventelä Anne-Mari , Kirkkala Teija , Svirčev Zorica , Meriluoto Jussi
Published: January 2020

Cyanobacterial blooms pose a risk to wild and domestic animals as well as humans due to the toxins they may produce. Humans may be subjected to cyanobacterial toxins through many routes, e.g., by consuming contaminated drinking water, fish, and crop plants or through recreational activities. In earlier studies, cyanobacterial cells have been shown to accumulate on leafy plants after spray irrigation with cyanobacteria-containing water, and microcystin (MC) has been detected in the plant root system after irrigation with MC-containing water. This paper reports a series of experiments where lysis of cyanobacteria in abstracted lake water was induced by the use of hydrogen peroxide and the fate of released MCs was followed. The hydrogen peroxide–treated water was then used for spray irrigation of cultivated spinach and possible toxin accumulation in the plants was monitored. The water abstracted from Lake Köyliönjärvi, SW Finland, contained fairly low concentrations of intracellular MC prior to the hydrogen peroxide treatment (0.04 μg L−1 in July to 2.4 μg L−1 in September 2014). Hydrogen peroxide at sufficient doses was able to lyse cyanobacteria efficiently but released MCs were still present even after the application of the highest hydrogen peroxide dose of 20 mg L−1. No traces of MC were detected in the spinach leaves. The viability of moving phytoplankton and zooplankton was also monitored after the application of hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide at 10 mg L−1 or higher had a detrimental effect on the moving phytoplankton and zooplankton.
The Psychology of Mukbang Watching: A Scoping Review of the Academic and Non-academic Literature
Authors: Kircaburun Kagan , Harris Andrew , Calado Filipa , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: January 2020

Internet technology has facilitated the use of a wide variety of different activities and applications in online contexts. Despite a large amount of research regarding these activities including online social networking, online gaming, online shopping, online sex, and online gambling, very little is known regarding online eating shows called ‘mukbang’ (i.e. a portmanteau of the South Korean words for ‘eating’ [‘meokneun’] and ‘broadcast’ [‘bangsong’] that refers to online broadcasts where individuals eat food and interact with the viewers). The present study carried out a scoping review of the academic and non-academic literature (i.e. peer-reviewed publications, academic theses, and the print media) in order to examine the psychological characteristics of mukbang viewers and consequences of mukbang watching. A total of 11 academic outputs from different disciplinary fields (mainly peer-reviewed papers) and 20 articles from national UK newspapers were identified following an extensive literature search. Results from the scoping review indicated that viewers use mukbang watching for social reasons, sexual reasons, entertainment, eating reasons, and/or as an escapist compensatory strategy. Furthermore, mukbang watching appears to have both beneficial consequences (e.g., diminishing feelings of loneliness and social isolation, constructing a virtual social community,) and non-beneficial consequences (e.g., altering food preferences, eating habits, and table manners, promoting disordered eating, potential excess, and ‘addiction’). Implications of the study and directions for future research are also discussed.