bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous determination of paraquat and diquat in human plasma by HPLC‐DAD: Its application in acute poisoning patients induced by these two herbicides
Authors: Yuan Guiyan , Li Rong , Zhao Qi , Kong Xianglin , Wang Yanyan , Wang Xiaojing , Guo Ruichen
Published: December 2020

Background

Paraquat and diquat are widely used in agricultural production in many countries, which are very toxic to human beings. Paraquat can be detected in some diquat solution sold in the market. The blood concentration of paraquat or diquat is an important indicator for clinical diagnosis of paraquat or diquat poisoning. So, it is very meaningful to develop a method for simultaneous determination of paraquat and diquat in human plasma.

Objective

To develop and validate a HPLC‐DAD method for simultaneous determination of paraquat and diquat in human plasma and to apply it in the acute poisoning patients by these two herbicides.

Methods

Paraquat and diquat were simultaneously determined by HPLC‐DAD. The plasma was treated using Waters OASIS® Column and then separated on a Thermo Hypersil GOLD (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) Column with the mobile phase consisted of 75 mmol/L sodium heptane sulfonate (containing 0.1 mol/L phosphoric acid, pH 3.0) and acetonitrile (87:13, v:v) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The full‐wavelength scanning was 200‐400 nm, and the detection wavelength of paraquat and diquat was 257nm and 310nm, respectively. 120 and 30 plasma samples from patients with paraquat and diquat poisoning were collected and analyzed by the established method.

Results

The standard curve for paraquat and diquat ranged from 0.05 to 20 μg/mL, and the precision of LLOQ for paraquat was 16.49%, which was required to be less than 20%. The precision of other concentrations was less than 14.14%. The recovery of paraquat and diquat was 95.38%‐103.97% and 94.79%‐98.40%, respectively. The results showed that paraquat and diquat were stable under various storage conditions. 120 plasma samples of paraquat poisoning patients and 30 plasma samples of diquat poisoning patients were determined by the established method. The blood concentration of paraquat ranged from 0.10 to 20.62 μg/mL, with an average of 3.61 μg/mL, while for diquat, the concentration ranged from 0 to 26.59 μg/mL, with an average of 2.00 μg/mL. Among the diquat suspected poisoning samples, 5 samples were detected not only diquat but also paraquat, and 2 samples were detected only paraquat, no diquat.

Conclusion

The HPLC‐DAD method established in this study was high throughput, high sensitivity, simple operation, and wide linear ranges. It can be used for the screening analysis and quantitative detection of paraquat and diquat in acute poisoning patients, which can provide basis for the treatment and prognosis of these two herbicides poisoning patients.
Prognostic value ofBRAF/MIR‐17 signature and B‐Raf protein expression in patients with colorectal cancer: A pilot study
Authors: Ibrahiem Afaf T. , Fawzy Manal S. , Abu AlSel Baraah T. , Toraih Eman A
Published: December 2020

Background

Despite the recent improvement in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment, it still has a poor prognosis with a low survival rate. Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms have proved to play a substantial role in CRC tumorigenesis and progression. According to Gene Ontology and TargetScan analyses, the B‐Raf proto‐oncogene (BRAF) gene is one of the microRNA‐17 (miR‐17) targets. We aimed to explore the prognostic value of B‐Raf protein andBRAF/microRNA‐17 (MIR‐17) gene expression signature in CRC archived samples.

Methods

B‐Raf protein expression was identified by immunohistochemistry, while gene expression studies were quantified by real‐time qPCR in 53 paired archived CRC specimens.

Results

TheBRAFshowed higher expressions in CRC specimens relative to non‐cancer tissues (p = 0.006). MIR17 expression was inversely and significantly correlated with both B‐Raf protein (r = −0.79,p < 0.001) and gene expression (r = −0.35,p = 0.010) and showed a significant direct correlation with a high rate of relapse (p = 0.020).BRAF/miR‐17 expression in CRC was associated inversely with tumor size, high grade of colonic carcinoma, lymph node metastasis, and carcinoma subtype. Spearman correlation and Kaplan‐Meier survival curve analyses revealed that disease‐free survival and overall survival were inversely and significantly correlated with positive B‐Raf protein expression (r = −0.31 and −0.35,p = 0.023 and 0.011, respectively) and directly correlated with logBRAF/MIR17 ratio (r = 0.50 and 0.41,p < 0.001 and = 0.003, respectively). Cox hazard regression analysis revealed theBRAF/MIR17 ratio could predict both types of patients' survival, among other variables.

Conclusion

BRAF/MIR17 ratio could have prognostic utility in patients with CRC. Further larger‐scale studies are warranted to confirm this utility.
Combined impact of land cover, precipitation, and catchment area on discharge and phosphorus in the Mississippi basin's subcatchments
Authors: Allafta Hadi , Opp Christian , Kolli Meena
Published: December 2020

Phosphorus (P) supplies (concentrations and fluxes) are essential drivers for biological activities in rivers and should be controlled to prevent eutrophication that usually results from urbanization and agricultural expansion. In this study, data from 26 subcatchments in the Mississippi basin were compiled from 2013 to 2017 to identify how catchment area, precipitation, and land cover affect discharge and total P (TP) and how TP yield diverges from a generalized local response mode. Results revealed that area‐weighted discharge (Qarea) is controlled by precipitation and land cover (i.e., increases with precipitation and with both urban and forestland covers and decreases with both shrub/scrub and pasture/grassland covers). Total P concentration increases with agricultural land cover and decreases with both forest and water/wetland covers. Total P yield (Qarea × concentration) is governed mainly by Qarea because the latter changes by a higher order of magnitude compared with concentration in the current study. Hence, TP yield follows the same trends that Qarea exhibits with precipitation and land cover. In all catchments, TP yield varied significantly (p < .05) and positively with instantaneous discharge. However, the rate of yield variations with discharge exhibited a significant (p < .0001) strong negative (r2 = −.74) correlation with catchment area. This study provided a robust model that can predict the TP concentration and yield across different catchment scales in the Mississippi basin by means of discharge readings.
MRI Texture Features are Associated with Vestibular Schwannoma Histology
Authors: George‐Jones Nicholas A. , Chkheidze Rati , Moore Samantha , Wang Jing , Hunter Jacob B.
Published: December 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine if commonly used radiomics features have an association with histological findings in vestibular schwannomas (VS).

Study Design

Retrospective case‐series.

Methods

Patients were selected from an internal database of those who had a gadolinium‐enhanced T1‐weighted MRI scan captured prior to surgical resection of VS. Texture features from the presurgical magnetic resonance image (MRI) were extracted, and pathologists examined the resected tumors to assess for the presence of mucin, lymphocytes, necrosis, and hemosiderin and used a validated computational tool to determine cellularity. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratios were also computed for selected features using the Youden index to determine the optimal cut‐off value.

Results

A total of 45 patients were included. We found significant associations between multiple MRI texture features and the presence of mucin, lymphocytes, hemosiderin, and cellularity. No significant associations between MRI texture features and necrosis were identified. We were able to identify significant positive likelihood ratios using Youden index cut‐off values for mucin (2.3; 95% CI 1.2–4.3), hemosiderin (1.5; 95% CI 1.04–2.1), lymphocytes (3.8; 95% CI 1.2–11.7), and necrosis (1.5; 95% CI 1.1–2.2).

Conclusions

MRI texture features are associated with underlying histology in VS.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E2000–E2006, 2021
Hearing Status and Aural Rehabilitative Profile of 878 Patients With Sporadic Vestibular Schwannoma
Authors: Macielak Robert J. , Marinelli John P. , Spear Samuel A. , Hahs‐Vaughn Debbie L. , Link Michael J. , Nye Chad , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: December 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To examine the hearing status and aural rehabilitative profile in a national cohort of patients with sporadic vestibular schwannoma (VS).

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of Acoustic Neuroma Association members diagnosed with sporadic VS was performed from February 2017 through January 2019. Self‐reported results were used to determine the aural rehabilitative profile of respondents.

Results

Among survey respondents, 62.2% (546/878) were not using any hearing‐assistive device at time of survey. For the 37.8% (332/878) that were utilizing hearing‐assistive devices, 32.8% (109/332) reported using a behind‐the‐ear hearing aid, 23.8% (79/332) used a contralateral routing of signal (CROS) hearing aid, and 21.7% (72/332) used a bone conduction device. Notably, 41.9% (278/663) of patients who previously underwent tumor treatment reported utilizing a hearing rehabilitation device at some point during VS management compared to 27.0% (58/215) of those undergoing observation with serial imaging (P < .001). Of 275 patients with functional hearing in the ipsilateral ear, 26.5% (73/275) reported having used at least one type of hearing device; 24.0% (66/275) reported use of a conventional hearing aid, 0.7% (2/275) a CROS aid, and 0.4% (1/275) a bone conduction device. Among respondents reporting ipsilateral nonfunctional hearing, 44.9% (258/575) reported having used at least one type of hearing device; 13.0% (75/575) a CROS aid, and 12.3% (71/575) a bone conduction device.

Conclusions

Even among a cohort with presumably elevated literacy surrounding hearing rehabilitation options, few patients with a history of unilateral vestibular schwannoma ultimately use hearing assistive devices long‐term, suggesting that most patients sufficiently adjust to unilateral hearing loss or are unsatisfied with the benefits achieved with current device options.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:1378–1381, 2021
Algalization of acid soils with acid‐tolerant strains: Improvement in pH, carbon content, exopolysaccharides, indole acetic acid and dehydrogenase activity
Authors: Shanthakumar Subramanian , Abinandan Sudharsanam , Venkateswarlu Kadiyala , Subashchandrabose Suresh R. , Megharaj Mallavarapu
Published: December 2020

Widespread occurrence of acid soils across the globe is a serious issue in agriculture that has been generally managed with intensive use of chemical amendments. Although green microalgae are the primary colonizers of soils even under extreme acid conditions, only a few investigations focused on their role in health improvement of such soils. In this study we tested the hypothesis: that acid‐tolerant microalgae have the potential for ameliorating soil acidity and enhancing soil health through enrichment of carbon content, exopolysaccharides, indole acetic acid besides stimulating dehydrogenase activity in acid soils. Inoculation of two acid soils collected from Australian fields with acid‐tolerant microalgae, Desmodesmus sp. MAS1 and Heterochlorella sp. MAS3, alone or in combination, resulted initially in the development of a soil algal crust as evidenced by significant increase in chlorophyll a in both the soils. Also, there was a significant increase (>200%) in the release of exopolysaccharides that facilitated soil aggregate stability. The increase in soil pH was about one unit (from 4.8 to 5.6 in soil A or 4.3–5.3 in soil B) under the influence of individual or co‐cultures of the microalgal strains after 90 days. Algalized acid soils exhibited a significant increase in carbon content (29–57%), dehydrogenase activity (>500%) and production of indole acetic acid (200–500%). Thus, the present study reports for the first time on the great potential of green microalgae in amelioration of acid soils besides improving soil health and fertility.
On the Use of Surfactant‐Complexed Chitosan for Toughening 3D Printed Polymethacrylate Composites
Authors: Maalihan Reymark D. , Chen Qiyi , Agueda Joseph Rey H. Sta. , Pajarito Bryan B. , Tamura Hiroshi , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: December 2020

This work reports a simple approach to prepare toughened 3D‐printed polymethacrylate (PMA) composites using surfactant‐modified chitosan (SMCS) particles at loadings between 2–10 wt%. Chitosan (CS) is modified with anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate, via ionic complexation to facilitate compatibility and dispersion of CS to PMA matrix by non‐covalent interactions between the components. The study successfully demonstrates high‐accuracy 3D printing of composites with significant improvements in the overall mechanical properties. The composite with the best loading of 8 wt% SMCS shows a tensile modulus of 1.23 ± 0.05 GPa, a tensile strength at 49.8 ± 0.96 MPa, a yield stress at 33.3 ± 1.48 MPa, and a strain‐at‐failure 10.3 ± 0.61%, which are 45%, 40%, 32%, and 68% higher than neat PMA, respectively. This provides a significant improvement in toughness at 4.92 ± 0.55 MJ m−3 for the composite, 184% higher than that of neat PMA. The marked increase in toughness is due to enhanced filler‐matrix interactions which improve the ability of the 3D printed composite to absorb energy under tensile load. The results from this work provide new understandings into the strategies for design and preparation of stereolithography 3D printed materials reinforced with toughening fillers from renewable resources.
Preparation of Single, Heteromorphic Microspheres, and Their Progress for Medical Applications
Authors: Zhang Jian , Wang Yulin , Qu Qingli , Lu Tao , Li Fanghua , Wang Jing , Yang Anquan , Zou Yan , Huang Chaobo
Published: December 2020

Microspheres applied in medical applications experience explosive development in recent years, such as drug release, cell culture, and bone tissue engineering, etc. However, there are still some bottlenecks both in economy and technology lay that cannot be ignored. For instance, microsphere technology has not been used in cell culture widely because of its uneconomical cost; as the core of drug‐loaded microsphere, targeted microsphere technology is still not mature enough. Besides, the common microsphere fabrication methods: microfluidic or emulsion technology is difficult to guarantee high biocompatibility of microsphere due to utilization of photoinitiator, crosslinking agent, surfactant, and other substances. Therefore, gas‐shearing technology has been proposed to solve these above shortcomings successfully. This paper focuses more on heteromorphic microspheres rather than on single microspheres which begins with a minute introduction of microsphere preparation methods: microfluidic, coaxial electrospray, emulsion, and gas‐shearing technology. Then its medical applications: drug release, cell culture, bone tissue engineering, and hemostasis are discussed in detail. The disadvantages of fabrication methods and bottlenecks for medical applications at present are also stated. At the end, perspectives of microsphere development are put forward.
Three‐dimensional quantitative mass spectrometry imaging in complex system: From subcellular to whole organism
Authors: Zhao Chao , Cai Zongwei
Published: December 2020

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has been applied for label‐free three‐dimensional (3D) imaging from position array across the whole organism, which provides high‐dimensional quantitative data of inorganic or organic compounds that may play an important role in the regulation of cellular signaling, including metals, metabolites, lipids, drugs, peptides, and proteins. While MSI is suitable for investigation of the spatial distribution of molecules, it has a limitation with visualization and quantification of multiple molecules. 3D‐MSI, however, can be applied toward exploring metabolic pathway as well as the interactions of lipid–protein, protein–protein, and metal–protein in complex systems from subcellular to the whole organism through an untargeted methodology. In this review, we highlight the methods and applications of MS‐based 3D imaging to address the complexity of molecular interaction from nano‐ to micrometer lateral resolution, with particular focus on: (a) common and hybrid 3D‐MSI techniques; (b) quantitative MSI methodology, including the methods using a stable isotope labeling internal standard (SILIS) and SILIS‐free approaches with tissue extinction coefficient or virtual calibration; (c) reconstruction of the 3D organ; (d) application of 3D‐MSI for biomarker screening and environmental toxicological research. 3D‐MSI quantitative analysis provides accurate spatial information and quantitative variation of biomolecules, which may be valuable for the exploration of the molecular mechanism of the disease progresses and toxicological assessment of environmental pollutants in the whole organism. Additionally, we also discuss the challenges and perspectives on the future of 3D quantitative MSI.
Characterization of Gastrointestinal Symptom Type and Severity in Parkinson's Disease: A Case–Control Study in an Australian Cohort
Authors: Kenna Jade E. , Bakeberg Megan C. , Gorecki Anastazja M. , Chin Yen Tay Alfred , Winter Samantha , Mastaglia Frank L. , Anderton Ryan S.
Published: December 2020

Background

While constipation is a well‐known non‐motor symptom which may precede the onset of the classical motor symptoms of PD, there have been few comprehensive studies of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in people with PD (PwP).

Objectives

To investigate the spectrum of GI symptoms in an Australian PwP cohort and their relationship to use of anti‐parkinsonian medications dietary habits and smoking.

Methods

The prevalence and severity of GI symptoms were compared in a group of 163 PwP and 113 healthy control subjects using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). Corrected linear regression models were used to determine differences between PwP and controls, and to investigate the influence of different classes of anti‐Parkinsonian medications.

Results

PwP reported a greater frequency of constipation and GI‐associated illnesses when compared to healthy controls. Total GSRS scores (P < 0.0001), upper GI symptoms (P < 0.0001), and hypoactive GI Symptoms (P < 0.0001) were all significantly greater in the PD cohort than controls. Further analyses revealed a positive association between the use of anti‐Parkinsonian medications and total GSRS scores (P < 0.001), as well as upper GI symptoms (P < 0.001) and hypoactive GI function (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study illustrates the frequency and array of GI symptoms in a large PD cohort. The findings indicate that anti‐parkinsonian medications play an important role in the presentation and development of GI symptoms.
Urine Metabolites Associated with the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Diet: Results from the DASH‐Sodium Trial
Authors: Kim Hyunju , Lichtenstein Alice H. , Wong Kari E. , Appel Lawrence J. , Coresh Josef , Rebholz Casey M.
Published: December 2020

Scope

Serum metabolomic markers of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet are previously reported. In an independent study, the similarity of urine metabolomic markers are investigated.

Methods and Results

In the DASH‐Sodium trial, participants are randomly assigned to the DASH diet or control diet, and received three sodium interventions (high, intermediate, low) within each randomized diet group in random order for 30 days each. Urine samples are collected at the end of each intervention period and analyzed for 938 metabolites. Two comparisons are conducted: 1) DASH‐high sodium (n = 199) versus control‐high sodium (n = 193), and 2) DASH‐low sodium (n = 196) versus control‐high sodium. Significant metabolites identified using multivariable linear regression are compared and the top 10 influential metabolites identified using partial least‐squares discriminant analysis to the results from the DASH trial. Nine out of 10 predictive metabolites of the DASH‐high sodium and DASH‐low sodium diets are identical. Most candidate biomarkers from the DASH trial replicated. N‐methylproline, chiro‐inositol, stachydrine, and theobromine replicated as influential metabolites of DASH diets.

Conclusions

Candidate biomarkers of the DASH diet identified in serum replicated in urine. Replicated influential metabolites are likely to be objective biomarkers of the DASH diet.
Metabolomic Changes after Coffee Consumption: New Paths on the Block
Authors: Favari Claudia , Righetti Laura , Tassotti Michele , Gethings Lee Andrew , Martini Daniela , Rosi Alice , Antonini Monica , Rubert Josep , Manach Claudine , Dei Cas Alessandra , Bonadonna Riccardo , Brighenti Furio , Dall'Asta Chiara , Mena Pedro , Del Rio Daniele
Published: December 2020

Scope

Several studies suggest that regular coffee consumption may help preventing chronic diseases, but the impact of daily intake and the contribution of coffee metabolites in disease prevention are still unclear. The present study aims at evaluating whether and how different patterns of coffee intake (one cup of espresso coffee/day, three cups of espresso coffee/day, and one cup of espresso coffee/day and two cocoa‐based products containing coffee two times per day) may impact endogenous molecular pathways.

Methods and Results

A three‐arm, randomized, crossover trial is performed in 21 healthy volunteers who consumed each treatment for one month. Urine samples are collected to perform untargeted metabolomics based on UHPLC‐IMS‐HRMS. A total of 153 discriminant metabolites are identified. Several molecular features are associated with coffee consumption, while others are linked with different metabolic pathways, such as phenylalanine, tyrosine, energy metabolism, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and arginine biosynthesis and metabolism.

Conclusion

This information has provided new insights into the metabolic routes by which coffee and coffee‐related metabolites may exert effects on human health.
7T MR Thermometry technique for validation of system‐predicted SAR with a home‐built radiofrequency wrist coil
Authors: Fagan Andrew J. , Jacobs Paul S. , Hulshizer Thomas C. , Rossman Phillip J. , Frick Matthew A. , Amrami Kimberly K. , Felmlee Joel P.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

A 7T magnetic resonance thermometry (MRT) technique was developed to validate the conversion factor between the system‐measured transmitted radiofrequency (RF) power into a home‐built RF wrist coil with the system‐predicted SAR value. The conversion factor for a new RF coil developed for ultra high magnetic field MRI systems is used to ensure that regulatory limits on RF energy deposition in tissue, specifically the local 10g‐averaged specific absorption rate (SAR10g), are not exceeded. MRT can be used to validate this factor by ensuring that MRT‐measured SAR values do not exceed those predicted by the system.

Methods

A 14‐cm diameter high‐pass birdcage RF coil was built to image the wrist at 7T. A high spatial and temporal resolution dual‐echo gradient echo MRT technique, incorporating quasi‐simultaneous RF‐induced heating and temperature change measurements using the proton resonance frequency method, was developed. The technique allowed for high‐temperature resolution measurements (~±0.1°C) to be performed every 20 s over a 4‐min heating period, with high spatial resolution (2.56 mm3 voxel size) and avoiding phase discontinuities arising from severe magnetic susceptibility‐induced B0 inhomogeneities. Magnetic resonance thermometry was performed on a phantom made from polyvinylpyrrolidone to mimic the dielectric properties of muscle tissue at 297.2 MHz. Temperature changes measured with MRT and four fiber optic temperature sensors embedded in the phantom were compared. Electromagnetic simulations of the coil and phantom were developed and validated via comparison of simulated and measured B1+ maps in the phantom. The position of maximum SAR within the coil was determined from simulations, and MRT was performed within a wrist‐sized piece of meat positioned at that SAR hotspot location. MRT‐measured and system‐predicted SAR values for the phantom and meat were compared.

Results

Temperature change measurements from MRT matched closely to those from the fiber optic temperature sensors. The simulations were validated via close correlation between the simulated and MRT‐measured B1+ and SAR maps. Using a coil conversion factor of 2 kg−1, MRT‐measured point‐SAR values did not exceed the system‐predicted SAR10g in either the uniform phantom or in the piece of meat mimicking the wrist located at the SAR hotspot location.

Conclusions

A highly accurate MRT technique with high spatial and temporal resolution was developed. This technique can be used to ensure that system‐predicted SAR values are not exceeded in practice, thereby providing independent validation of SAR levels delivered by a newly built RF wrist coil. The MRT technique is readily generalizable to perform safety evaluations for other RF coils at 7T.
MR elastography: Principles, guidelines, and terminology
Authors: Manduca Armando , Bayly Philip V. , Ehman Richard L. , Kolipaka Arunark , Royston Thomas J. , Sack Ingolf , Sinkus Ralph , Van Beers Bernard E.
Published: December 2020

Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is a phase contrast–based MRI technique that can measure displacement due to propagating mechanical waves, from which material properties such as shear modulus can be calculated. Magnetic resonance elastography can be thought of as quantitative, noninvasive palpation. It is increasing in clinical importance, has become widespread in the diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis, and additional clinical applications are being explored. However, publications have reported MRE results using many different parameters, acquisition techniques, processing methods, and varied nomenclature. The diversity of terminology can lead to confusion (particularly among clinicians) about the meaning of and interpretation of MRE results.

This paper was written by the MRE Guidelines Committee, a group formalized at the first meeting of the ISMRM MRE Study Group, to clarify and move toward standardization of MRE nomenclature. The purpose of this paper is to (1) explain MRE terminology and concepts to those not familiar with them, (2) define “good practices” for practitioners of MRE, and (3) identify opportunities to standardize terminology, to avoid confusion.
Hyperpolarized 13C magnetic resonance imaging for noninvasive assessment of tissue inflammation
Authors: Anderson Stephanie , Grist James T. , Lewis Andrew , Tyler Damian J.
Published: December 2020

Inflammation is a central mechanism underlying numerous diseases and incorporates multiple known and potential future therapeutic targets. However, progress in developing novel immunomodulatory therapies has been slowed by a need for improvement in noninvasive biomarkers to accurately monitor the initiation, development and resolution of immune responses as well as their response to therapies. Hyperpolarized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an emerging molecular imaging technique with the potential to assess immune cell responses by exploiting characteristic metabolic reprogramming in activated immune cells to support their function. Using specific metabolic tracers, hyperpolarized MRI can be used to produce detailed images of tissues producing lactate, a key metabolic signature in activated immune cells. This method has the potential to further our understanding of inflammatory processes across different diseases in human subjects as well as in preclinical models. This review discusses the application of hyperpolarized MRI to the imaging of inflammation, as well as the progress made towards the clinical translation of this emerging technique.
Relationship between self‐esteem and perceived social support in burn patients in Sina Hospital of Tabriz
Authors: Gorbani Azam , Rezaiee Moradali Monireh , Shabanloei Reza
Published: December 2020

Aim

Visible scars and damage to self‐esteem make it difficult to endure difficult conditions and have some detrimental psychological and physical consequences for patients with burns. Social support plays an important role in enhancing the mental image and self‐esteem of burn patients in the rehabilitation stages of burn patients. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between perceived social support and self‐esteem in burn patients referred to Sina Hospital in Tabriz in 2019–2018.

Design

Descriptive correlational study.

Methods

In this descriptive correlational study, 120 patients with different degrees of burn were selected using the convenience sampling method. After obtaining validity and reliability, the data were collected using demographic questionnaires, Rosenberg self‐esteem and Zimet Multi‐dimensional Perceived Social Support. Then, they were analysed using descriptive and analytical tests and SPSS software.

Results

There was a positive and significant correlation between the main variables of the research (p < .001, r = 0.288). Duration of hospitalization, percentage of burns and education were effective factors in self‐esteem (p < .005). Based on the findings, more support for burn patients will increase patients' self‐esteem and greater adaptation, as well as a better return to their lives in the rehabilitation phase.
Customer's revisit intention: Empirical evidence on Gen‐Z from Bangladesh towards halal restaurants
Authors: Polas Mohammad Rashed Hasan , Raju Valliappan , Hossen Sayed Mohibul , Karim Asif Mahbub , Tabash Mosab I.
Published: December 2020

The perception of halal is a serious concern for all Muslims worldwide. The majority of the population in Bangladesh are Muslims. Restaurants providing halal food are important as the religion advocates that Islamic principles and beliefs must be practised in all transactions. A sample of 317 Generation Z (Gen Z) respondents was selected from 10 halal restaurants in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Gen Z comprises anyone born between 1996 and 2010 who are usually tech‐savvy. Which factors motivate customers from this young generation to revisit halal restaurants? To answer this question, the study examined the direct impact of service quality, physical environment, and price perception on their revisit intention, and tested the indirect effects of these three factors based on customer satisfaction, using Smart PLS 3.0 to test the research hypotheses. The findings confirmed a positive and significant relationship between service quality, physical environment, and price perception with revisit intention. The analysis also confirmed that customer satisfaction mediates the relationship between physical environment and price perception with customer revisit intention. However, the study did not establish any relationship in the mediation role of customer satisfaction with service quality and customer revisit intention. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by highlighting the importance of each factor in the hotel and hospitality sector. Its application in the hospitality business and implications for future research are also discussed.
Dielectric, vibrational and thermal properties of sisal fibers‐reinforced poly (lactic acid)
Authors: Haddar Nouha , Ghorbel Nouha , Omri Mohamed Amine , Sanjay Mavinkere Rangappa , Siengchin Suchart , Kallel Ali
Published: December 2020

The dielectric spectroscopy (DS), the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) measurements were performed on a poly(lactic acid) matrix reinforced by sisal fibers with different weight fractions (10% and 20%). The obtained dielectric spectra of the neat PLA and the PLA/sisal bio‐composites covered a wide frequency range (from 10−1 to 106 Hz) and a temperature domain varying from 20°C to 140°C as it serves to investigate the polymer dynamics and the interfacial properties. The DSC analysis, the SEM micrographs and the FTIR spectra were executed to determine the characteristic temperatures, the degree of crystallinity and the interaction between poly(lactic acid) and sisal fibers. The DS showed different relaxations: the β relaxation, α process and the conduction phenomenon in the PLA matrix. Furthermore, the incorporation of sisal fiber generates additional relaxation processes known as the water polarization and the Maxwell‐Wagner‐Sillars (MWS) interfacial polarization. The PLA/sisal fiber interface properties were investigated through the calculation of the strength parameters ∆εMWS as well as the activation energy using the Havriliak‐Negami model.
Systematic evaluation of the efficacy‐effectiveness gap of systemic treatments in extensive disease small cell lung cancer
Authors: Cramer‐van der Welle Christine M. , Schramel Franz M. N. H. , Peters Bas J. M. , van Putten John W. G. , Klungel Olaf H. , Groen Harry J. M. , van de Garde Ewoudt M. W. ,   the Santeon SCLC Study Group
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study is to assess how clinical outcomes in real‐world (effectiveness) correspond to the outcomes in clinical trials (efficacy) of systemic treatments for extensive disease small cell lung cancer (ED SCLC).

Methods

All patients diagnosed with ED SCLC between 2008 and 2014 in six Dutch large teaching hospitals (Santeon network) were identified and followed‐up from date of diagnosis until death or end of data collection. For every patient, an efficacy‐effectiveness factor (EE factor) was calculated by dividing individual patients' overall survival (OS) by the pooled median OS assessed from clinical trials with the respective treatment.

Results

From 792 diagnosed patients, 568 (72%) started with first‐line treatment. Overall, the median EE factor was 0.79 (P < .001 from 1.00). Poor performance status (ECOG≥2) and a higher age at diagnosis (age ≥ 65 years) were independent predictors for a lower EE factor. The EE gap was 43% in patients with both age ≥ 65 years and ECOG ≥2 (EE factor 0.57). The mean age and the proportion of patients with ECOG≥2 in real‐world were different from those in clinical trials (mean age of 66 versus 62 years, and ECOG≥2 25% versus 17%; both P < .001).

Conclusion

OS of patients with ED SCLC treated with systemic therapy in real‐world practice is 21% shorter than for patients included in trials. Age at diagnosis and performance status partly explain this gap.
Initial opioid prescription patterns and the risk of ongoing use and adverse outcomes
Authors: Gomes Tara , Campbell Tonya , Tadrous Mina , Mamdani Muhammad M. , Paterson J. Michael , Juurlink David N.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

As clinical practice moves towards more judicious opioid prescribing, physicians require information on how to safely initiate opioids. The objective of this study was to examine the association between initial opioid prescription characteristics and risks of harm and long‐term use.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based retrospective cohort study among Ontario residents newly dispensed an opioid for pain between July 2013 and March 2016. The primary exposure was the average daily opioid dose dispensed at initiation (in milligram morphine equivalents; MME), with secondary exposures including the initial prescription's duration and formulation. The primary outcome was fatal or non‐fatal opioid overdose. A secondary analysis studied continued opioid use for at least 1 year.

Results

Among the 2 021 371 individuals meeting our inclusion criteria, 1121 (0.56 per 1000 person‐years) experienced an opioid overdose within 1 year and 64 013 (3.17%) continued treatment for at least 1 year. Higher initial daily dose, longer prescription duration, and receipt of a long‐acting formulation at initiation were significantly associated with higher hazard of overdose. Compared to daily doses of 20 MME or lower, initial doses exceeding 200 MME daily were associated with a particularly high hazard of overdose (aHR 2.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.62 to 5.44). In the secondary analysis, there were similar associations between initial dose, duration, and formulation and long‐term use.

Conclusions

Although the absolute risk of an opioid overdose within the first year of prescription opioid use is low, better alignment of opioid initiation practices with guidelines may reduce opioid‐related harm.
Representative identification of spectra and environments (RISE) using k‐means
Authors: Looney Erin E. , Liu Zhe , Classen Andrej , Liu Haohui , Riedel Nicholas , Braga Marília , Balaji Pradeep , Augusto André , Buonassisi Tonio , Marius Peters Ian
Published: December 2020

Spectral differences affect solar cell performance, an effect that is especially visible when comparing different solar cell technologies. To reproduce the impact of varying spectra on solar cell performance in the lab, a unique classification of spectra is needed, which is currently missing in literature. The most commonly used classification, average photon energy (APE), is not unique, and a single APE value may represent various spectra depending on location. In this work, we propose a classification method based on an iterative use of the k‐means clustering algorithm. We call this method RISE (Representative Identification of Spectra and the Environment). We define a set of 18 spectra using RISE and reproduce the spectral impact on energy yield for various solar cell technologies and locations. We explore effects on yield for commercially available solar cell technologies (Si and CdTe) in four locations: Singapore (fully humid equatorial climate), Colorado (cold arid), Brazil (warm, humid, and subtropical), and Denmark (fully humid warm temperature). We then reduce our findings to practice by implementing the spectrum set into an LED current–voltage (IV) tester. We verify our performance predictions using our set of representative spectra to reproduce energy yield differences between Si solar cells and CdTe solar cells with an average error of less than 1.5 ± 0.5% as compared to over 5% when using standard testing conditions.
Characterization of polyoxometalate/polymer photo‐composites: A toolbox for the photodegradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Ghali Mariem , Brahmi Chaima , Benltifa Mahmoud , Vaulot Cyril , Airoudj Aissam , Fioux Philippe , Dumur Frédéric , Simonnet‐Jégat Corine , Morlet‐Savary Fabrice , Jellali Salah , Bousselmi Latifa , Lalevée Jacques
Published: December 2020

Different inorganic/organic photocomposites based on polyoxometalate (POM) nanoparticles have been developed for photocatalytic applications. Currently, polyoxometalate nanoparticles have been successfully in‐situ embedded into an acrylate polymer network by photopolymerization upon mild visible light irradiation at 405 nm. The proposed POM/polymer photocomposites have been characterized using complementary techniques for a better understanding of their photocatalytic activity. Interestingly, the obtained photocomposites exhibit high rigidity, excellent thermal stability, a non‐negligible porosity and new functionalities such as light reactivity and redox properties. Moreover, developed composites showed efficient catalytic activity for the color removal of aqueous solutions of erythrosine and rose Bengal under Light Emitting Diodes LED@375 nm irradiation reaching 80 and 90% as a final color removal, respectively.
Calcofluor white hypersensitive proteins contribute to stress tolerance and pathogenicity in entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium acridum
Authors: Su Xueling , Yan Xi , Chen Xing , Guo Mei , Xia Yuxian , Cao Yueqing
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Fungal cell wall integrity is vital for fungal pathogenesis and stress tolerance. Calcofluor white (CFW), a cell wall perturbing agent, inhibits fungal growth by binding chitin in the cell wall. The roles of CFW sensitive proteins remain insufficiently understood in pathogenic fungi.

RESULTS

We investigated two calcofluor white hypersensitive proteins, MaCwh1 and MaCwh43, in the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium acridum. Both Green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐tagged MaCwh1 and MaCwh43 localized at the endoplasmic reticulum. Our results showed that the ΔMacwh1 and ΔMacwh43 mutants were more sensitive to CFW and ultraviolet irradiation stress compared to wild‐type and complement strains. ΔMacwh1 had a stronger sensitivity to these stresses than ΔMacwh43. Both ΔMacwh1 and ΔMacwh43 mutants showed smoother cell wall surface, and drastically reduced chitin and mannose glycoprotein level in the cell wall and glycerol level in conidia compared to wild type. Insect bioassay showed significantly attenuated virulence for both ΔMacwh1 and ΔMacwh43 mutants with impaired ability in penetrating the host cuticle. RNA‐Seq analysis revealed that a large number of genes presumably involved in cell wall construction and modification, pathogenicity and stress response were down‐regulated in both ΔMacwh1 and ΔMacwh43 mutants.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that both Macwh1 and Macwh43 affect the fungal cell wall ultrastructure and contribute to the stress tolerance and pest control potential in M. acrdium. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Reduced insecticide susceptibility of the wheat aphid Sitobion miscanthi after infection by the secondary bacterial symbiont Hamiltonella defensa
Authors: Li Qian , Sun JingXuan , Qin YaoGuo , Fan Jia , Zhang Yong , Tan XiaoLing , Hou MaoLin , Chen JuLian
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Bacterial symbionts in insects, especially aphids, have a major influence on host adaptation. We previously showed that infection with the secondary symbiont Hamiltonella defensa increases the fitness of the wheat aphid Sitobion miscanthi, yielding increases in fitness parameters such as adult weight and offspring number. However, whether H. defensa affects the sensitivity of host aphids to insecticides remains unknown.

RESULTS

We tested the effects of H. defensa on host aphid susceptibility to the insecticides chlorpyrifos methyl, imidacloprid, cyantraniliprole and acetamiprid. Our results showed that compared with Hamiltonella‐free aphid clones, Hamiltonella‐infected aphid clones exhibited lower sensitivity to most of the tested insecticides at low concentrations. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed that the density of H. defensa in the infected clones was slightly decreased at 24 h but then sharply increased until the late stage after treatment with the different insecticides. H. defensa in the host aphids was detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization and was localized to the aphid hindgut. Levels of the detoxification enzymes acetylcholinesterase, glutathione transferase and carboxylesterase were significantly higher in Hamiltonella‐infected clones than in Hamiltonella‐free clones.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicated that infection with H. defensa reduced aphid susceptibility to the investigated insecticides at low concentrations, potentially by increasing detoxification enzyme activity in the host. Therefore, symbiont‐mediated insecticide resistance should be taken into account when performing resistance‐monitoring studies. Studies of symbiont‐mediated insecticide resistance may enhance our understanding of the emergence of insecticide resistance in agricultural systems. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Quality Assessment of Lactoferrin in some Marketed Nutraceuticals Derived from Milk using Validated Analytical Methods
Authors: Mohamed Hadeer G. , Al‐Ghobashy Medhat A. , Fouad Mervat A. , Zaazaa Hala S.
Published: December 2020

In recent years, lactoferrin has received great attention for its nutritional and immunological uses. As minor element its inclusion in milk with other milk proteins hindered its direct determination. So downstream purification of lactoferrin from skimmed milk was optimized using vacuum driven approach. The purity of lactoferrin was monitored using gel electrophoresis along with validated RP‐HPLC and SE‐HPLC assays. Factors affecting lactoferrin during milk processing, handling and storage were also investigated. These methods were applicable on various products in Egyptian market to withdraw our attention towards careful monitoring during in‐process quality control which showed deleterious reactions affecting of the milk proteins during processing causing significant denaturation so as to track concentration, purity and stability of lactoferrin.
Revealing and Attenuating the Electrostatic Properties of Tubulin and Its Polymers
Authors: Kalra Aarat P. , Patel Sahil D. , Eakins Boden B. , Riddell Saralyn , Kumar Pawan , Winter Philip , Preto Jordane , Carlson Kris W. , Lewis John D. , Rezania Vahid , Tuszyński Jack A. , Shankar Karthik
Published: December 2020

Tubulin is an electrostatically negative protein that forms cylindrical polymers termed microtubules, which are crucial for a variety of intracellular roles. Exploiting the electrostatic behavior of tubulin and microtubules within functional microfluidic and optoelectronic devices is limited due to the lack of understanding of tubulin behavior as a function of solvent composition. This work displays the tunability of tubulin surface charge using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for the first time. Increasing the DMSO volume fractions leads to the lowering of tubulin's negative surface charge, eventually causing it to become positive in solutions >80% DMSO. As determined by electrophoretic mobility measurements, this change in surface charge is directionally reversible, i.e., permitting control between −1.5 and + 0.2 cm2 (V s)−1. When usually negative microtubules are exposed to these conditions, the positively charged tubulin forms tubulin sheets and aggregates, as revealed by an electrophoretic transport assay. Fluorescence‐based experiments also indicate that tubulin sheets and aggregates colocalize with negatively charged g‐C3N4 sheets while microtubules do not, further verifying the presence of a positive surface charge. This study illustrates that tubulin and its polymers, in addition to being mechanically robust, are also electrically tunable.
Electrolyte‐Free Spectroscopy and Imaging of Graphite Intercalation
Authors: Stark Madeline S. , Cheng Judy , Kim Hailey , Kuntz Kaci L. , Warren Scott C.
Published: December 2020

Engineering electrode materials for optoelectronic and energy storage applications requires a fundamental understanding of intercalation using spatially‐resolved techniques. However, spectroscopic methods can have limited spatial resolution and low intensity since the signal passes through electrolyte. Here, a device geometry is presented in which the electrolyte is laterally separated from the area probed spectroscopically, so that the signal does not pass through the electrolyte. This geometry enables us to visualize ion transport with optical microscopy and monitor charge transfer with Raman and visible reflectance spectroscopies. In addition, vibrational changes are probed in the mid‐IR, a region previously difficult to access due to electrolyte absorption. This geometry will allow many layered electrodes to be probed in situ using time‐ and spatially‐resolved techniques, including photon and electron spectroscopies.