bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of high‐fat diet and metformin on urinary metabolites in diabetes and prediabetes rat models
Authors: Lee Yan‐Fen , Sim Xuan‐Yi , Teh Ying‐Hui , Ismail Mohd Nazri , Greimel Peter , Murugaiyah Vikneswaran , Ibrahim Baharudin , Gam Lay‐Harn
Published: September 2020

High‐fat diet (HFD) interferes with the dietary plan of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, many diabetes patients consume food with higher fat content for a better taste bud experience. In this study, we examined the effect of HFD on rats at the early onset of diabetes and prediabetes by supplementing their feed with palm olein oil to provide a fat content representing 39% of total calorie intake. Urinary profile generated from liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis was used to construct the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) score plots. The data provide insights into the physiological state of an organism. Healthy rats fed with normal chow (NC) and HFD cannot be distinguished by their urinary metabolite profiles, whereas diabetic and prediabetic rats showed a clear separation in OPLS‐DA profile between the two diets, indicating a change in their physiological state. Metformin treatment altered the metabolomics profiles of diabetic rats and lowered their blood sugar levels. For prediabetic rats, metformin treatment on both NC‐ and HFD‐fed rats not only reduced their blood sugar levels to normal but also altered the urinary metabolite profile to be more like healthy rats. The use of metformin is therefore beneficial at the prediabetes stage.
A quantile‐slicing approach for sufficient dimension reduction with censored responses
Authors: Kim Hyungwoo , Shin Seung Jun
Published: September 2020

Sufficient dimension reduction (SDR) that effectively reduces the predictor dimension in regression has been popular in high‐dimensional data analysis. Under the presence of censoring, however, most existing SDR methods suffer. In this article, we propose a new algorithm to perform SDR with censored responses based on the quantile‐slicing scheme recently proposed by Kim et al. First, we estimate the conditional quantile function of the true survival time via the censored kernel quantile regression (Shin et al.) and then slice the data based on the estimated censored regression quantiles instead of the responses. Both simulated and real data analysis demonstrate promising performance of the proposed method.
Evaluation of the Single‐Use Fixed‐Bed Bioreactors in Scalable Virus Production
Authors: Lesch Hanna P. , Valonen Piia , Karhinen Minna
Published: September 2020

The accelerating development of gene therapy from research towards clinical trials and beyond has elevated the demand for practical viral vector‐manufacturing solutions. The use of disposable upstream technology is gaining traction in clinical manufacturing. Packed‐bed or fixed‐bed reactors, where column is packed with immobilized biocatalyst particles providing surface to constrain the cells in a particular region of the reactor, have been widely used in bioprocessing applications since mid‐1900s. However, the world's first single‐use, fully integrated, high cell density, fixed‐bed bioreactor was launched only approximately a decade ago. By now, several single‐use, fixed‐bed technology solutions have been developed in a small scale. Scaling‐up the manufacturing can be challenging and for commercial‐scale manufacturing, there is practically only one single‐use, good manufacturing practice‐compliant option available. This study reviews the latest, fully disposable, fixed‐bed bioreactors; compares the virus production in the different systems; and discusses important manufacturing cost‐related topics. It is predicted that single‐use, fixed‐bed bioreactors will receive even more attention in the field of viral vector manufacturing and commercialization, especially with the need for higher virus titers and virus yields.
Recent Advances in Biomaterial‐Based High‐Throughput Platforms
Authors: Sarkar Joyita , Kumar Ashok
Published: September 2020

High‐throughput systems allow screening and analysis of large number of samples simultaneously under same conditions. Over recent years, high‐throughput systems have found applications in fields other than drug discovery like bioprocess industries, pollutant detection, material microarrays, etc. With the introduction of materials in such HT platforms, the screening system has been enabled for solid phases apart from conventional solution phase. The use of biomaterials has further facilitated cell‐based assays in such platforms. Here, the authors have focused on the recent developments in biomaterial‐based platforms including the fabricationusing contact and non‐contact methods and utilization of such platforms for discovery of novel biomaterials exploiting interaction of biological entities with surface and bulk properties. Finally, the authors have elaborated on the application of the biomaterial‐based high‐throughput platforms in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, cancer and stem cell studies. The studies show encouraging applications of biomaterial microarrays. However, success in clinical applicability still seems to be a far off task majorly due to absence of robust characterization and analysis techniques. Extensive focus is required for developing personalized medicine, analytical tools and storage/shelf‐life of cell laden microarrays.
Effect of equilibrium pH on the structure and properties of bleach‐damaged human hair fibers
Authors: Malinauskyte Ernesta , Cornwell Paul A. , Reay Louise , Shaw Neil , Petkov Jordan
Published: September 2020

Hair proteins are significantly affected by environmental pH. This impact tends to increase with prior hair damage. To understand how pH affects bleached hair properties, we utilized a number of techniques allowing for the determination of hair thermal properties, swelling and water sorption, and dry and wet tensile properties. At pH 5, hair proteins had the best structural integrity, as determined by differential scanning calorimetry and the highest tensile modulus. At pH 10, protein cross‐linking density decreased, water content and hair cross‐sectional diameter increased. Alkaline treatment, when compared with pH 5, did not reduce intermediate filament conditions (evaluated via enthalpy measurement) nor mechanical property performance in the wet state. In contrast to alkaline‐treated hair, bleached hair equilibrated at pH 3 behaved very differently: it contained two different crosslink density zones, was the least stiff in dry and stiffest in wet conditions. Additionally, it absorbed less water and had the lowest diameter because of reduced water binding by protonated carboxyl groups. The pH 3 to 10 did not affect the mechanical strength of bleached hair in dry or wet conditions.
Mental health and quality of life among healthcare professionals during the COVID‐19 pandemic in India
Authors: Suryavanshi Nishi , Kadam Abhay , Dhumal Gauri , Nimkar Smita , Mave Vidya , Gupta Amita , Cox Samyra R. , Gupte Nikhil
Published: September 2020

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has placed healthcare professionals (HCP) in stressful circumstances with increased patient loads and a high risk of exposure. We sought to assess the mental health and quality of life (QoL) of Indian HCPs, the fourth highest‐burden country for COVID‐19.

Method

Using snowball sampling, we conducted an online survey in May 2020 among HCPs. Data were collected on demographics, depression, and anxiety using validated tools, quality of life, and perceived stressors. Multivariable logistic regression and principal component analysis were performed to assess risk factors associated with mental health symptoms.

Findings

Of 197 HCPs assessed, 157 (80%) were from Maharashtra, 130 (66%) from public hospitals, 47 (24%) nurses, 66 (34%) physicians, 101 (52%) females, and 81 (41%) ≤30 years. Eighty‐seven percent provided direct COVID‐19 care with 43% caring for >10 patients/day. A large proportion reported symptoms of depression (92, 47%), anxiety (98, 50%), and low QoL (89, 45%). Odds of combined depression and anxiety were 2.37 times higher among single HCPs compared to married (95% CI: 1.03–4.96). Work environment stressors were associated with 46% increased risk of combined depression and anxiety (95% CI: 1.15–1.85). Moderate to severe depression and anxiety were independently associated with increased risk of low QoL [OR: 3.19 (95% CI: 1.30–7.84), OR: 2.84 (95% CI: 1.29–6.29)].

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated a high prevalence of symptoms of depression and anxiety and low QoL among Indian HCPs during the COVID‐19 pandemic. There is an urgent need to prevent and treat mental health symptoms among frontline HCPs.
Elevated homocysteine, as a biomarker of cardiac injury, in panic disorder patients due to oxidative stress
Authors: Aghayan Seyed Shahrokh , Farajzadeh Asghar , Bagheri‐Hosseinabadi Zahra , Fadaei Homeyra , Yarmohammadi Maryam , Jafarisani Moslem
Published: September 2020

Background and Objective

Patients with panic disorder (PD) suffer from elevated oxidative stress as a consequence of serotonin metabolism disorder. These patients have elevated serotonin concentration and catabolism of serotonin via monoamine oxidase. The aim of the present study was to evaluate serum homocysteine concentration and its relationship with oxidative stress level in PD patients, regarding homocysteine as a diagnostic biomarker of heart disease.

Materials & Method

Sixty patients with PD according to the DSM‐5 diagnostic criteria for a panic attack and 60 healthy individuals were included in the present study.

Peripheral venous blood samples were taken from patients. Erythrocytes and serum were separated from blood, and RBC hemolysates were prepared to investigate oxidative stress indices including glutathione and glutathione peroxidase. Serum homocysteine and carbonyl groups concentrations were measured in all samples. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, and p < .05 was considered significant.

Results

Results showed that serum carbonyl groups concentration was significantly higher in patients with PD than in healthy individuals (p < .001). The results also indicated decreased serum glutathione concentration and glutathione peroxidase activity in patients (p < .003). In addition, elevated homocysteine concentration in PD patients serum was observed during the present study (p < .003).

Conclusion

Our findings support that patients with PD experience higher levels of oxidative stress, due to impaired serotonin metabolism, which is related to the prognosis of heart disease in these patients.
How to respond to competitors' green success for improving performance: The moderating role of organizational ambidexterity
Authors: Zhao Wenwen , Feng Taiwen , Xin Xuexiang , Hao Guangyi
Published: September 2020

With increasing environmental competitions between companies, there is a pressing need to explore how the environmental pressures from rivals influence focal firms' actions and the subsequent performance consequences. On the basis of social contagion theory and upper echelons theory, we examine whether firms respond to competitors' green success through green supplier integration, which further improves firm performance, and the moderating effect of organizational ambidexterity. The research explores hypothesized relationships adopting hierarchical regression analysis and bootstrapping method by collecting survey data from 206 Chinese manufacturers. Our findings suggest that competitors' green success positively influences green supplier integration. Green supplier integration mediates the impacts of competitors' green success on financial and environmental performance. In addition, the combined dimension of organizational ambidexterity plays a positive moderating role in the impacts of green supplier integration on financial and environmental performance. This study expands previous literature and managers' practices on green supply chain management.
Business‐oriented environmental regulation: Measurement and implications for environmental policy and business strategy from a sustainable development perspective
Authors: Martínez Hernández Juan J. , Sánchez‐Medina Patricia S. , Díaz‐Pichardo René
Published: September 2020

Business‐oriented environmental regulation is expected to have a fundamental role in mitigating the adverse effects of human activity on the natural environment. However, its effectiveness and efficiency are not well established. A systematic literature review reveals validity and reliability problems in the measurement of business‐oriented environmental regulation. From a sustainable development perspective, we develop a theoretical framework that aims to enhance the measurement and assessment of this kind of regulation. Our theoretical framework proposes that the goals of business‐oriented environmental regulation must articulate a measurement system in a 3 × 3 matrix: three measurement levels (stringency, response, and outcome—in this cause–effect order) and three sustainability dimensions (environmental, social, and economic—in this constraint order). For each cell, we propose a combination of objective and subjective indicators. This theoretical framework expands existing approaches to business‐oriented environmental regulation measurement by integrating a sustainable development perspective into a measurement framework in a structured theory‐driven manner. Not only will this measurement system be useful for improving environmental policy, but it will also allow companies to improve their business strategy and come closer to complying with environmental regulations in order to effectively contribute to solutions for current environmental problems and help achieve a sustainable development.
Comprehensive analysis on the expression levels and prognostic values of LOX family genes in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Lin Shitong , Zheng Lingling , Lu Yuchao , Xia Qidong , Zhou Peng , Liu Zheng
Published: September 2020

Backgrounds

Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is a major pathological type of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and the prognosis of advanced KIRC patients is often unsatisfactory. Some lysine oxidase (LOX) family genes have been proven to be upregulated in some malignancies and play pivotal roles in the carcinogenesis. However, their roles in KIRC remain unclear.

Materials and Methods

Here, we used some online databases (eg, ONCOMINE, GEPIA, UALCAN, c‐BioPortal, Human Protein Altas) to comprehensively explored the expression levels and the prognostic values of LOX family genes in KIRC using bioinformatic methods.

Results

The results revealed that lysyl oxidase (LOX) and lysyl oxidase‐like 2 (LOXL2) were significantly overexpressed in KIRC at the level of mRNA expression, protein expression, and RCC cell lines. Further analysis demonstrated that higher mRNA expression of LOX and LOXL2 were significantly correlated with poor survival, tumor grade, individual cancer stages, and nodal metastasis status. DNA copy number amplifications and mRNA upregulation, DNA deep deletion, and mRNA upregulation were the main genetic mutations of LOX and LOXL2, respectively. Prognostic analysis showed that the altered group had significantly poorer overall survival (OS) compared to the unaltered group (p = .0387). Co‐expression analysis showed CP, PLOD2, and COL5A1 were significantly correlated with LOX, and COL1A2 was positively correlated with LOXL2. Further analysis confirmed that these co‐expressed genes were significantly upregulated and predicted unfavorable prognosis in KIRC.

Conclusion

Multi‐level analysis demonstrated that LOX and LOXL2 were significantly upregulated and predicted poor survival in KIRC, which may apply as promising biomarkers for diagnosis and therapy of KIRC in the future.
Emotion‐focused therapy for symptoms of generalised anxiety in a student population: An exploratory study
Authors: O’Connell Kent Julie Anne , Jackson Aaron , Robinson Mark , Rashleigh Chuck , Timulak Ladislav
Published: September 2020

Anxiety issues continue to retain the highest prevalence rates within student counselling services (SCS) with generalised anxiety a prominent concern. These issues are associated with poor academic achievement, attrition and self‐injurious behaviours. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is moderately effective in treating generalised anxiety in students. Initial studies of emotion‐focused therapy (EFT) for GAD are indicating successful outcomes for clients though research investigating a brief format within SCS populations is needed.

Aim

The present exploratory study represents an early effort to examine the effectiveness of brief EFT for generalised anxiety symptoms within a university SCS and the clients’ experiences of this type of therapy.

Method

Participants (n = 15) presenting to a SCS with worry and generalised anxiety symptoms received an individual EFT for GAD intervention. Outcomes were assessed using two outcome measures pre‐ and post‐therapy and a semi‐structured post‐therapy interview examined the clients’ experiences of therapy and its outcomes.

Results

Quantitative pre–postdata indicated large effect sizes. Qualitative data described experiences of decreased anxiety, increased self‐understanding, resilience, self‐compassion and assertiveness. Experiential work and the therapeutic relationship were experienced as helpful aspects of therapy though experiential work was difficult. Personal difficulty engaging in therapy and some remaining symptoms were unhelpful aspects.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that brief EFT for generalised anxiety symptoms in students may be an effective SCS intervention and warrants further investigation.
Efficiency of grain cleaner to increase test weight in wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: Crépon Katell , Duyme Florent
Published: September 2020

Background and objectives

Weather conditions can deteriorate the test weight to the extent that some wheat lots see their access to the market compromised. Test weight degradation may be due to low grain density or to an alteration in packing characteristics, in particular because of a high level of impurities in the batch. Therefore, grain cleaning can improve test weight by removing impurities. The objective of this work was to determine the settings of the cleaner that significantly influence both the improvement of test weight and the amount of materials removed by cleaning, in order to advise silo managers on the cleaning strategy to adopt in case of low‐test weight harvest.

Findings

We implemented a complete factorial design of experiments using a laboratory cleaner‐separator. The factors tested were the initial test weight, the screens used, the aspiration, and the grain flow rate.

Conclusions

Cleaning significantly improve test weight by an average of 2.1 kg/hl. The average amount of material removed is 8.1%. The only setting that significantly impacts the test weight gain is the grain flow rate. Using a more open screen does not affect test weight gain but greatly increases screenings, so this strategy should be avoided.

Significance and novelty

As a result of this work, two decision trees guide the choice of the operators as regards the adjustment of the devices according to the expected specific weight gain and the amount of lost material caused.
Branch Duct – IPMN and PanIN, in IgG4‐Autoimmune pancreatitis: A case report
Authors: Lazzarin Gianni , Romano Lucia , Coletti Gino , Di Sibio Alessandra , Vicentini Vincenzo , Fatayer Mohamad W. Alid , Schietroma Mario , Pessia Beatrice , Leone Matteo , Carlei Francesco , Giuliani Antonio
Published: September 2020

The presence of pancreatic lesions in patients with autoimmune pancreatitis requires histological diagnosis (percutaneous or endoscopic biopsy) to exclude malignancy. A nonspecific histology after endoscopic or percutaneous biopsy of a pancreatic lesion may require surgical excision and definite histology.
Aquagenic urticaria: Water, friend, or foe?
Authors: Robles‐Tenorio Arturo , Tarango‐Martinez Victor Manuel , Sierra‐Silva Georgina
Published: September 2020

There are <100 reported cases of aquagenic urticaria. Although most are sporadic, several diseases have been associated. Diagnosis is based on provocation tests. Second‐generation antihistamines are the first‐line treatment.
Diagnostic benefit of cytological and histopathological examinations for recurrent vaginal cancer metastasizing to the duodenum: A case report
Authors: Sonoda Kenzo , Okadome Masao , Sugimoto Rie , Fujimoto Takahiro , Taguchi Kenichi , Saito Toshiaki
Published: September 2020

This is the first case report of a vaginal squamous cell carcinoma that metastasized to the duodenum. Cytological and histopathological examinations are useful for the diagnosis of a duodenal metastasis.
An unusual cause of large bowel obstruction: To keep an open mind
Authors: Shah Tuhin , Shakya Arjana
Published: September 2020

Enterolithiasis or formation of gastrointestinal concretions is an uncommon medical condition that develops in the setting of intestinal stasis due to various pathologies. Its prevalence ranges upto 10% and can present in different clinical pictures to challenge a clinician.
The lambda sign in gallium‐67 scintigraphy is a useful clue to the early diagnosis of sarcoidosis
Authors: Hisata Yoshio , Tago Masaki , Fujiwara Motoshi , Yamashita Shu‐ichi
Published: September 2020

A 40‐year‐old man with bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy in chest X‐ray and the λ‐sign in gallium‐67 scintigraphy was subsequently diagnosed with systemic sarcoidosis according to the findings of bronchoalveolar lavage and histopathological examinations of transbronchial lung biopsies. Identifying the λ‐sign could be a valuable clue to the early diagnosis of sarcoidosis.
Metastatic squamous cell carcinoma in a cervical lymph node
Authors: Bloomer Zachary W. , Snitchler Andrea N. , Shakir Mohamed K. M. , Hoang Thanh D.
Published: September 2020

Cervical lymphadenopathy is a very common complaint for patients presenting to an endocrinology clinic. This case highlights common locations that malignancy presents at as well as their ultrasound characteristics.
Design and operando/in situ characterization of precious‐metal‐free electrocatalysts for alkaline water splitting
Authors: Zhao Tingwen , Wang Yuan , Karuturi Siva , Catchpole Kylie , Zhang Qiang , Zhao Chuan
Published: September 2020

Electrochemical water splitting has attracted considerable attention for the production of hydrogen fuel by using renewable energy resources. However, the sluggish reaction kinetics make it essential to explore precious‐metal‐free electrocatalysts with superior activity and long‐term stability. Tremendous efforts have been made in exploring electrocatalysts to reduce the energy barriers and improve catalytic efficiency. This review summarizes different categories of precious‐metal‐free electrocatalysts developed in the past 5 years for alkaline water splitting. The design strategies for optimizing the electronic and geometric structures of electrocatalysts with enhanced catalytic performance are discussed, including composition modulation, defect engineering, and structural engineering. Particularly, the advancement of operando/in situ characterization techniques toward the understanding of structural evolution, reaction intermediates, and active sites during the water splitting process are summarized. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives toward achieving efficient catalyst systems for industrial applications are proposed. This review will provide insights and strategies to the design of precious‐metal‐free electrocatalysts and inspire future research in alkaline water splitting.
Sarcaglarols A—D, Lindenane−Monoterpene Heterodimers from Sarcandra glabra Based on Molecular Networks
Authors: Wang Yongyue , Cui Zhirong , Chi Jun , Tang Pengfei , Zhang Meihui , Li Jixin , Li Yongyi , Zhang Hao , Luo Jun , Kong Lingyi
Published: September 2020

Main observation and conclusion

Sarcaglarols A—D (1—4), two pairs of lindenane−monoterpene heterodimers fused by a 1,2‐dioxane moiety, were discovered and isolated from the leaves of Sarcandra glabra guided by MS/MS molecular networking‐based strategy. Their planar structures, absolute configurations of basic skeleton and flexible polyhydric side chain were established by analysis of HRESIMS, NMR spectroscopic data, ECD spectrum, and the X‐ray diffraction study of isopropylidene derivatives. An intermolecular [2+2+2] cycloaddition may play a key role in the biosynthesis pathway of the 1,2‐dioxane moiety fused lindenane−monoterpene heterodimer skeleton, which can be recognized as the biogenetic precursors of our previous reported lindenane−normonoterpene conjugates. In addition, compounds 1, 3 and 4 exhibited moderate inhibitory effects of lipid accumulation in free fatty acid‐exposed L02 cells.
FLN‐1/filamin is required to anchor the actomyosin cytoskeleton and for global organization of sub‐cellular organelles in a contractile tissue
Authors: Kelley Charlotte A. , Triplett Olivia , Mallick Samyukta , Burkewitz Kristopher , Mair William B. , Cram Erin J.
Published: September 2020

Actomyosin networks are organized in space, direction, size, and connectivity to produce coordinated contractions across cells. We use theC. elegansspermatheca, a tube composed of contractile myoepithelial cells, to study how actomyosin structures are organized. FLN‐1/filamin is required for the formation and stabilization of a regular array of parallel, contractile, actomyosin fibers in this tissue. Loss offln‐1results in the detachment of actin fibers from the basal surface, which then accumulate along the cell junctions and are stabilized by spectrin. In addition, actin and myosin are captured at the nucleus by the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton complex (LINC) complex, where they form large foci. Nuclear positioning and morphology, distribution of the endoplasmic reticulum and the mitochondrial network are also disrupted. These results demonstrate that filamin is required to prevent large actin bundle formation and detachment, to prevent excess nuclear localization of actin and myosin, and to ensure correct positioning of organelles.
What happened to the US cancer cooperative groups? A status update ten years after the Institute of Medicine report
Authors: Bertagnolli Monica M. , Blanke Charles D. , Curran Walter J. , Hawkins Douglas S. , Mannel Robert S. , O’Dwyer Peter J. , Schnall Mitchell D. , Wolmark Norman
Published: September 2020

The US cancer cooperative groups (cooperative groups) were founded in the 1950s to establish a standing infrastructure to conduct multi‐institutional cancer clinical trials. Initially funded almost entirely by the US National Cancer Institute (NCI), over the years, the research conducted by the Cooperative Groups has evolved to meet the demands of cancer clinical research, with a scope now encompassing trials to advance cancer treatment, cancer control, biomarker development and validation, and health services research, with a corresponding broadening of their funding sources. The cooperative groups are also a critical mechanism for educating the next generation of cancer clinical trialists from many different disciplines. This review outlines the overall mission, structure, and funding of the cooperative groups, beginning in 1955 when they were first established by the NCI, and describes the considerable progress against cancer achieved over the past decade.
Defect Chemistry on Electrode Materials for Electrochemical Energy Storage and Conversion
Authors: Zhang Yiqiong , Xu Jian , Long Yong , Tao Li , Ding Mei , Jia Chuankun
Published: September 2020

Efficient and sustainable clean energy technology is an urgent need to solve energy crisis and alleviate environmental pollution. Reasonable design of electrode materials can effectively improve the performance of electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices. As an effective method to control the properties of electrode materials, defects have recently received extensive attention. Herein, in this review, we will systematically summarize the application of defect chemistry on electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage and conversion. Firstly, we mainly describe the research content of defect chemistry from three aspects, including defect construction, the dynamic evolution and regulation of defects. Based on those understanding, the applications of defect chemistry in fuel cells, metal‐ion batteries and carbon/nitrogen fixation are discussed, respectively. Finally, the existing challenges and future development prospects of defect chemistry are proposed. Overall, we hope this review could help readers to better understand and apply defect chemistry on electrode materials.
Large‐scale Synthesis of Uniform and Shape‐tunable ZnO/Polysiloxane Janus Micromotors Powered by Visible Light and Pure Water
Authors: Xie Wenqing , Zhou Chao , Zhang Xiaoliang , Du Sinan , Wang Wei , Wang Huaguang , Zhang Zexin
Published: September 2020

Large‐scale synthesis of micromotors powered by visible light and pure water is challenging, yet crucial for practical applications. Herein, a new method for large‐scale synthesis of uniform Janus ZnO micromotors is reported, by partially encapsulating a ZnO microsphere within a polysiloxane microsphere. The resulting micromotors autonomously move under visible light and in pure water at speeds up to 15 μm/s. The shapes of these micromotors are readily tuned by adjusting the chemicals used in the synthesis, and the influence of the shapes on the speeds of the micromotors is quantified. Moreover, interesting collective behaviors, such as the formation of dynamic clusters, emerge from a dense population of these micromotors. This study therefore represents a substantial step forward in building an excellent model system of good quantity, uniformity and tunability for the study of active matter as well as in a variety of practical applications.
Predictive implications of decreased CA19‐9 at 8 weeks during nab‐paclitaxel plus gemcitabine for the induction of second‐line chemotherapy for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer
Authors: Iede Kiyotsugu , Yamada Terumasa , Kato Ryo , Ueda Masami , Tsuda Yujiro , Nakashima Shinsuke , Ohta Katsuya , Matsuyama Jin , Ikenaga Masakazu , Tominaga Shusei
Published: September 2020

Background

Second‐line (2L) chemotherapy after nab‐paclitaxel plus gemcitabine (AG) is important for improving the survival of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (APC). However, many patients fail to receive 2L chemotherapy because of rapid disease progression. Therefore, early recognition of any ineffectiveness during AG might lead to an increased induction rate of 2L chemotherapy.

Aim

We investigated the significance of treatment response at 8 weeks as a predictive factor for the induction of 2L chemotherapy after AG.

Methods and results

From January 2015 to January 2019, 41 patients with APC underwent AG as first‐line chemotherapy at our institute. Thirty‐three patients were evaluated at 8 weeks. Sixteen patients (48%) underwent 2L chemotherapy and 17 (52%) underwent no 2L chemotherapy. Clinical features and treatment response at 8 weeks were, retrospectively, compared among patients. Predictive factors for the induction of 2L chemotherapy were analyzed. Patients with an objective response by 8 weeks received 2L chemotherapy more frequently (P = .026). Decreased CA19‐9 (<50%) at 8 weeks was identified as an independent negative predictive factor for the induction of 2L chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Decreased CA19‐9 (<50%) at 8 weeks may indicate the ineffectiveness of AG and signify that a move to 2L chemotherapy may be required without delay.
Consistent Inversion of Noisy Non‐Abelian X‐Ray Transforms
Authors: Monard François , Nickl Richard , Paternain Gabriel P.
Published: September 2020

For M a simple surface, the nonlinear statistical inverse problem of recovering a matrix field from discrete, noisy measurements of the SO(n)‐valued scattering data CΦ of a solution of a matrix ODE is considered (n ≥ 2). Injectivity of the map Φ ↦ CΦ was established by Paternain, Salo, and Uhlmann in 2012. A statistical algorithm for the solution of this inverse problem based on Gaussian process priors is proposed, and it is shown how it can be implemented by infinite‐dimensional MCMC methods. It is further shown that as the number N of measurements of point evaluations of CΦ increases, the statistical error in the recovery of Φ converges to 0 in L2(M)‐distance at a rate that is algebraic in 1/N and approaches for smooth matrix fields Φ. The proof relies, among other things, on a new stability estimate for the inverse map CΦ → Φ.

Key applications of our results are discussed in the case n = 3 to polarimetric neutron tomography. © 2020 The Authors. Communications on Pure and Applied Mathematics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC
A new ‐map mechanism for mobility traces privacy
Authors: Ye Ayong , Meng Lingyu , Zhang Jiaomei , Diao Yiqing
Published: September 2020

A major concern of the deployment of location based services (LBSs) is the safeguards of the user's location data collected by service providers, since personal location data may imply sensitive private information. However, most available works proposed so far rely on syntactic privacy models such as k‐anonymity and location perturbation, which are proved to quiver in the balance with privacy and usability requirements. In this article, we provide a new ‐map mechanism to help users better understand the privacy/accuracy tradeoff process and preserve location data. In our ‐map model, the user can specify a geographic region to hide her precise location and suppress the following queries in the same area to meet her privacy requirement, while maintaining and understanding its usability. In addition, we propose a new notion of ‐privacy based on differential privacy to account for the temporal‐spatial correlation and history correlation in the case of crossing region, which is the major privacy concern of a moving user's trace. Finally, we evaluate our framework by using an online LBS with real‐world data sets. The results not only indicate that the ‐map is significantly useful for identifying the privacy and utility tradeoffs but also show the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed ‐privacy.
(N),C,N‐Coordinated Heavier Group 13–15 Compounds: Synthesis, Structure and Applications
Authors: Dostál Libor , Jambor Roman , Aman Michal , Hejda Martin
Published: September 2020

The aim of this review is to summarize recent achievements in the field of (N),C,N‐coordinated group 13–15 compounds not only regarding their synthesis and structure, but mainly focusing on their potential applications. Relevant compounds contain various types of N‐coordinating ligands built up on an ortho‐(di)substituted phenyl platform. Thus, group 13 and 14 derivatives were used as single‐source precursors for the deposition of semiconducting thin films, as building blocks for the preparation of high‐molecular polymers with remarkable optical and chemical properties or as compounds with interesting reactivity in hydrometallation processes. Group 15 derivatives function as catalysts in the Mannich reaction, in the allylation of aldehydes or activation of CO2. They were used as transmetallation reagents in transition metal catalysed coupling reactions. The univalent species serve as ligands for transition metals, activate alkynes or alkenes and are utilized as catalysts in the transfer hydrogenation of azo‐compounds.
The evaluation of a southern African cowpea germplasm collection for seed yield and yield components
Authors: Mbuma Ntombokulunga W. , Gerrano Abe S. , Lebaka Ntjapa , Mofokeng Alina , Labuschagne Maryke
Published: September 2020

Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] is a valuable crop for subsistence farmers in sub‐Saharan Africa. Characterization and evaluation of cowpea germplasm collections based on seed yield for genotype × environment (GE) interactions can assist in improving the adaptability and stability across environments. The objectives of this study were to determine genetic variability in the germplasm collection, to determine the magnitude of GE interactions, to identify superior genotypes across environments, and to determine the phenotypic correlations among the seed yield and related traits. Seventy‐five cowpea genotypes were planted in three different locations during the 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 cropping seasons, and data were collected for seed yield and its components. Highly significant (P < .001) genotype effect for seed yield traits suggested great genetic differences among the tested populations. Significant (P < .05) genotype × location interaction (GL), genotype × season interaction (GS), and genotype × location × season interaction (GLS) effects were observed for seed yield traits, indicating the presence of complex GE interactions. The GLS effect was more than the GL and GS effects for seed yield, 100‐seed weight, number of pods, and pod width, highlighting the difficulty in genetic improvement of these traits. Cowpea genotypes 6 (ARC006), 49 (ARC049), 63 (IT90K‐76), and 57 (PAN311) showed high yield, wide adaptation, and stability. Genotype 58 (NGOII) and 1 (ARC001) showed high yield, instability, and specific adaptation. No clear mega‐environments were identified. Significant (P < .05) correlations were observed among most of the traits evaluated. The results obtained can serve as a guide and basis of germplasm management and improvement of cowpea seed yield.
Map‐based cloning and characterization of YGL22, a new yellow‐green leaf gene in rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Zhu Yu , Yan Peiwen , Dong Shiqing , Hu Zejun , Wang Ying , Yang Jinshui , Xin Xiaoyun , Luo Xiaojin
Published: September 2020

Leaf‐color mutants have been extensively studied in rice (Oryza sativa L.) and many corresponding genes have been identified and cloned. However, the mechanism of complex leaf‐color mutations requires further study. In this study, we obtained an introgression line (TIL22) from a set of introgression lines raised using African cultivated rice (O. glaberrima Steud.) as the donor parent and O. sativa subsp. indica Teqing as the recipient. Compared with Teqing, TIL22 showed a yellow‐green leaf phenotype at the seedling stage, but the leaves gradually changed to green after the five‐leaf stage. The photosynthetic pigment contents of yellow‐green leaves at the seedling stage were significantly reduced and chloroplast development was retarded compared with those of Teqing. Genetic analysis indicated that the introgression line phenotype was controlled by a single nuclear gene, temporarily designated YGL22. Map‐based cloning and sequence analysis suggested that the candidate gene was likely to be LOC_Os01g15390, which encodes a chloroplast protein. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis revealed that the YGL22 transcript level was significantly lower in TIL22 than that of Teqing at the seedling stage. We generated the ygl22 knockout mutant using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. The ygl22 mutants showed a similar phenotype to that of TIL22 at the seedling stage, suggesting that YGL22 may be involved in the early development of chloroplasts in rice. In addition, plant height, number of panicles per plant, and grain yield per plant of ygl22 were not significantly affected. The results indicate that YGL22 can be used as a trait marker gene in hybrid rice production.
Genome‐wide association studies of antimicrobial activity in global sorghum
Authors: Shields Lindsay , Gang Yang , Jordan Kathleen , Sapkota Sirjan , Boatwright Lucas , Jiang Xiuping , Kresovich Stephen , Boyles Richard
Published: September 2020

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is a common feed grain globally with vast genetic and phytochemical diversity that may provide numerous health benefits, including its aptitude as an antimicrobial feed grain. This study highlights the antimicrobial potential of a collection of 384 diverse sorghum accessions against two prominent foodborne pathogens, Clostridium perfringens and Salmonella enterica. Following extensive screening, we determined that sorghum grain extract is more efficient at inhibiting C. perfringens than S. enterica. Antimicrobial activity observed against C. perfringens was not significantly correlated with either total phenols (r = 0.12) or tannin concentration (r = 0.12). Moreover, we mapped loci associated with antimicrobial activity to C. perfringens that are independent of loci associated with total phenols and tannins. The two most significant associations were determined to have an epistatic interaction and 20 candidate genes were identified. By sequence homology studies, we found the potential functions of these candidates to include plant stress response (Sobic.002G083600) and phenol metabolism regulation (Sobic.010G222600). Additionally, we noted no relationship between antimicrobial activity and either grain yield or composition. These results highlight significant heritable variation of antimicrobial activity in sorghum that may be useful for breeding to improve its value as a feed source by incorporating grain‐based antibiotics in animal production.
“Basis of yield component compensation in crop plants with special reference to field bean, Phaseolus vulgaris” by M. Wayne Adams, Crop Science (1967) 7, 505–510
Authors: Sinclair Thomas R.
Published: September 2020

This article is part of a series of brief commentaries to highlight papers that have resulted in important and distinctly new perspectives in crop science. A criterion for selection of papers is that they must have been published at least 20 yr ago to allow for a long‐range perspective in assessment of the papers. The current article briefly reviews the paper by M. Wayne Adams published in 1967 that provided original insights about compensation in the components of seed number and seed yield in determining crop yield. Adams reviewed experimental results in a large number of crop species and discovered a consistent negative correlation between seed number and mean seed mass. He labeled this negative correlation as “component compensation” in the formation of yield. He hypothesized that component compensation resulted from limiting nutrient‐metabolite availability to support developing reproductive structures. Ultimately, the retained seeds would be filled to the extent allowed by the supply of nutrient‐metabolites so that there was compensation between seed number and individual seed mass.
Silicon and selenium fertilizer management improved productivity and aroma of fragrant rice
Authors: Du Bin , Wang Wenxi , Jiang Shuochen , Xie Yimei , Cheng Yinjie , Xu Jianlong , Xing Danying
Published: September 2020

Both Si and Se are the nutrient elements which had significant effects on crop growth and development. However, the application of Si and Se fertilizer management in field production of fragrant rice (Oryza sativa L.) was rarely reported. The present study was conducted with the objective to explore the effects of Si and Se fertilizer on fragrant rice performance though a six‐season field experiment. The Se rates were set at three levels: 0 g ha−1 (Se0), 36 g ha−1 (Se1), and 72 g ha−1 (Se2). The SiO2 rates were set at three levels: 0 kg ha−1 (Si0), 22.45 kg ha−1 (Si1), and 45 kg ha−1 (Si2). Compared with Si0Se0 treatment, Si and Se treatments significantly increased SPAD values and net photosynthetic rates of fragrant rice at tillering stage and heading stage. Higher grain yield, effectively panicle number and seed‐setting rate were also recorded in Si1Se1, Si1Se2, Si2Se1, and Si2Se2 treatments than Si0Se0 treatment in each cropping season. Moreover, Si and Se fertilizer management significantly increased the grain 2‐acetyl‐1‐pyrroline (2‐AP, main component of fragrant rice aroma) concentrations and the Si2Se1 treatment produced the highest or equally highest grain 2‐AP concentration in each cropping season.
Impact of ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic on cytology: An institutional experience
Authors: Rana Chanchal , Kumar Sumit , Babu Suresh , Kushwaha Rashmi , Singh Uma S. , Ramakant Pooja , Singh Kulranjan , Mishra Anand
Published: September 2020

Background

The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic has greatly impacted the health services worldwide, challenging the way modern medicine has been practiced for decades.

Aim

The present study documents an institutional experience on its impact on cytology services.

Materials & Methods

The cytology samples received during lock down period in India (24 March to 17 May 2020) were analysis and compared to the samples received during the same time frame in year 2019.

Results

The data revealed an overall 92.6% reduction in cytology samples received. All sample types were reduced with a statically significant reduction in thyroid cytology samples (P‐value: .023). There was relative increase in breast and lymph node samples; however, this relative increase was not statistically significant. The malignancy rate also significantly increased by 34.1% accompanied by decrease in neoplastic category among the samples received during COVID‐19 lockdown period. Breast samples remain the most frequent sample type both in pre‐COVID‐19 and COVID‐19 periods. Majority of fine‐needle aspiration done in these cases, during the lockdown period, were either in cases for recurrence or primary diagnosis.

Conclusion

Prioritization of samples, proper precautions and triaging of patients before procedure helped in carrying out this procedure safely.
The role of maternal environment on calibrating “Mini Puberty” in early infant development
Authors: Corpuz Randy
Published: September 2020

The postnatal period is a time of increased brain development and plasticity which have enduring influences on brain and behavior. Infants demonstrate a transient surge in testosterone (T) during development referred to as “mini puberty”. The utility of studying mini puberty in psychobiology has only recently emerged. Life‐history theory postulates that infants “use” the maternal environment—pre and postnatally—to calibrate growth and timing of sexual maturity. As such, variability in infant T levels is not arbitrary and can be predicted by theory. We examine the role of maternal pre‐ and postnatal cortisol. Using saliva samples (n = 193 dyads), we predicted that higher levels of maternal cortisol are associated with higher levels of infant T. We found only maternal postnatal cortisol had a relationship with infants’ mini puberty. This relationship was in the predicted direction and remained after controlling for numerous variables. Discussion will include the potential role of mini puberty as an inflection point where systems related to growth, sexual maturation, and psychosexual behavior can be calibrated and coordinated.
Nitrogen isotope composition of amino acids reveals trophic partitioning in two sympatric amphipods
Authors: Ledesma Matias , Gorokhova Elena , Holmstrand Henry , Garbaras Andrius , Karlson Agnes M. L.
Published: September 2020

According to ecological theory, two species cannot occupy the same niche. Using nitrogen isotope analyses (δ15N) of amino acids, we tested the extent to which two sympatric deposit‐feeding amphipods, Monoporeia affinis and Pontoporeia femorata, partition their trophic resources. We found that trophic position (TP) and resynthesis index (∑V; a proxy for degradation status of ingested material prior to assimilation by the consumer) differ between species. The surface‐feeding M. affinis had higher TP and intermediate ∑V, both pointing to a large contribution of metazoans in its diet. P. femorata, which feeds in the subsurface layers, had lower TP and a bimodal distribution of the ∑V values, supporting previous experimental evidence of a larger feeding niche. We also evaluated whether TP and ∑V values have consequences for amphipod fecundity and embryo viability and found that embryo viability in M. affinis was negatively linked to TP. Our results indicate that the amino acid‐δ15N data paired with information about reproductive status are useful for detecting differences in the trophic ecology of sympatric amphipods.