bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive review on automated systems for severity grading of diabetic retinopathy and macular edema
Authors: Mathews Mili Rosline , Anzar S. M.
Published: April 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a major medical concern worldwide. Long‐term diabetes can affect the retina of the eye and lead to diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME). Proper screening and consultation with an ophthalmologist are necessary to prevent avoidable vision loss. As DR and DME have become more prevalent, automated screening is essential to provide cost‐effective and rapid solutions with reduced human resources requirements. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the literature on computer‐aided diagnosis of DR and DME. We identified the studies on automated five‐class grading of DR according to International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy severity scale and three class grading of diabetic maculopathy, using fundus images. A systematic search on research repositories was conducted, and relevant studies were scrutinized and included in the review. The studies were reported in nearly 100 different journals. We have reviewed the studies in all aspects including datasets, preprocessing, non‐deep learning, and deep learning‐based algorithms, and evaluation metrics. Significant contributions in developing automated tools for DR/DME grading are highlighted. We have identified and discussed research gaps and challenges. This will help researchers to get an updated summary of work done in the area. Deep learning‐based algorithms have outperformed the traditional algorithms in the domain. Despite their promising performance, these algorithms reveal the potential for significant improvements to become a reliable tool in clinical settings.
Improvement of thin retinal vessel extraction using mean matting method
Authors: Sathananthavathi V. , Indumathi G. , Mahiya Rita , Priyadarshini S.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, a new mean matting method based on mean correlation is proposed to extract thin blood vessels precisely. The proposed algorithm is the combination of both supervised and unsupervised method. The supervised methodology performs well in extracting thick blood vessels; however, thin vessels are not precisely extracted. Even the capability of unsupervised method is better in extracting thin vessels; it has some artifacts in the output. The proposed method combines the advantages of both supervised and unsupervised method to extract vessel regions more precisely irrespective of their thickness. Using supervised methodology, thick blood vessels are extracted by training the classifier with the significant features describing the vessel regions. Trimap is generated on the unsupervised output and mean correlation is computed for all unknown pixels in the trimap to classify those pixels into vessels or background. The proposed matting method has less computational complexity compared to other existing matting methods. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated in detail on DRIVE and STARE datasets.
Irrigation management in Nigeria: Lessons from the Kano River irrigation scheme*
Authors: Oluniyi Esther Oyeronke , Bala Muhammad Sani
Published: April 2021

Nigeria has, in the past, tried various rural development strategies to achieve agricultural development and national food security. Among these has been the setting up of farm settlement schemes, marketing boards, the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme, Operation Feed the Nation, the Land Use Decree, etc. These could not achieve much because of various political, economic and social characteristics of the Nigerian population. As a further step, river basin development authorities (RBDAs) were established. The objectives of the RBDAs and their geographical coverage brought the confidence and the possibility of finally achieving the goal of rural transformation. However, like other schemes, the RBDAs are beset with problems which are also inherent in the present economic set‐up of the country, and which would require double the energy spent in the past, to have the RBDAs perform the wonders, which the other strategies have failed to achieve.

In redoubling efforts towards improved rural transformation, participatory irrigation management (PIM) began to occupy the irrigation space of the RBDAs, especially in the northern part of the country in the mid‐1990s. These efforts were then met with challenges that threatened the PIM initiatives a few years after inception.

This paper examines these challenges and the current efforts by government in addressing the challenges, with a view to refocusing future public irrigation development and management in Nigeria.
Management of leaf and sheath spot (mini ring) on hybrid bermudagrass in Hawaii
Authors: Cheng Zhiqiang
Published: April 2021

Leaf and sheath spot (mini ring) is a turfgrass fungal disease that has been reported in some states in the USA. The causal pathogen is Waitea circinata var. zeae, also known as Rhizoctonia zeae. This disease typically causes thinned turf areas and/or rings of full, half, or quarter circles. Turfgrass under stress or irrigated with high salinity water is more prone to infestation. Seven fungicide programs were evaluated on ‘TifEagle’ hybrid bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt Davy] at a golf course on Maui, Hawaii. Four replications (plots) per treatment were arranged in a randomized complete block design. Disease severity and turfgrass quality were measured prior to treatment and after each application. Azoxystrobin showed the best suppression of disease and improvement of turfgrass quality, followed by chlorothalonil + acibenzolar‐S‐methyl. These two fungicide programs can be rotated to minimize possible resistance, and should also be used in conjunction with beneficial cultural practices to manage mini ring disease.
The automatic and high‐throughput purification and enrichment of microalgae cells using deterministic lateral displacement arrays with different post shapes
Authors: Wang Yanjuan , Wang Junsheng , Wu Yanghao , Dong Jianhong
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Microalgae is an important natural resource, which has been used in various fields such as health care, chemical industry, clean energy, and environmental protection. However, microalgae samples are prone to be contaminated by bacteria, impurities, or other hybrid microalgae species. Enrichment and purification must be carried out before further research and utilization.

RESULT

Herein, a microfluidic microalgae enrichment and purification system based on the principle of deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) was proposed. Two different shapes of micro‐post, circular and triangular, were designed. The performance of the two chips was analyzed from many aspects, such as stability, throughput, recovery efficiency, purity, and enrichment factor. Using Platymonas cells as the samples, enrichment and purification were performed with the two chips. Experimental investigations revealed that the triangular‐shaped chip has a better performance than circular‐shaped chip; the recovery efficiency of Platymonas cells of the triangular‐shaped chip was 85.7%, the purity was 89.4%, and the maximum throughput was 500 μL/min, the enrichment factor was 92.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first time that DLD technology has been applied to the enrichment and purification of microalgae cells. In addition, the performance of different chips was discussed. Those findings should make a driving contribution to the enrichment and purification of microalgae, DLD technology, and the utilization of microalgae resources. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Declining North American snow cover ablation frequency
Authors: Suriano Zachary J. , Leathers Daniel J. , Mote Thomas L. , Henderson Gina R. , Estilow Thomas W. , Wachowicz Lori J. , Robinson David A.
Published: April 2021

At a continental scale, trends in aggregate ablation frequency inform changes in snow cover extent, however the variability and trends in the frequency and magnitude of snow ablation events at regional scales are less well understood. Determining such variability is critical in describing regional hydroclimate, where snow ablation can influence streamflow, soil moisture and groundwater supplies. This study uses a gridded dataset of United States and Canadian snow ablation events derived from 1960 to 2009 surface observations to examine spatial and temporal variations of snow ablation frequency. Here, we show a relatively narrow band of peak ablation frequency seasonally advances and recedes over North America, forced by variations in snow depth and meteorological conditions suitable for ablation. Particularly in more moist regions away from the continent's interior, hydrologically relevant ablation events of at least 10.0 cm occur on an approximately yearly basis. Collectively, ablation events became significantly less frequent with time, where events specifically in the Appalachians and in Great Lakes regions declined by as much as 75% over the 50‐year period. Decreases in ablation frequency across the study region are primarily driven by significant decreases in snow cover, inhibiting the potential for ablation to occur due to a lack of sufficiently deep snowpacks. These results point to important snow cover related changes in the hydrologic cycle in a warming climate and highlight specific areas of interest where more localized analysis of ablation trends and forcing mechanisms would be appropriate.
Effects of growth‐stage‐based limited irrigation management on the growth, yields, and radiation utilization efficiency of winter wheat in northwest China
Authors: Cao Yuxin , Cai Huanjie , Sun Shikun
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

As a common abiotic stress, water deficit stress has a negative impact on the growth and yield of many field crops worldwide. In this study, a mobile rain shelter experiment was conducted in the 2017–2019 growing seasons to investigate the effects of water stress at different growth stages on various traits in winter wheat, including plant height, leaf area index (LAI), biomass, radiation use efficiency (RUE), leaf photosynthetic traits, and yield.

RESULTS

Three different limited irrigation treatments were applied: no irrigation at all stages (T0), no irrigation at the reviving and jointing stages (T1), and no irrigation at the heading and grain‐filling stages (T2). In all treatments, 2‐year averages showed that T1 resulted in the highest grain yield (6470 kg ha−1). The plant height and LAI of winter wheat increased in the order of T0 < T1 < T2. In addition, T1 increased post‐anthesis biomass. The net photosynthetic rate and RUE were significantly higher in T1 than in other treatments. T1 could improve leaf photosynthetic traits by increasing Gs, Fv/Fm, ΦPSII, and qP, thus increasing RUE and grain yield.

CONCLUSION

We propose that irrigation at the heading and grain‐filling stages was the optimal limited irrigation practice for efficient radiation use and high yields in winter wheat in the arid and semi‐arid area of northwest China. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Rheological and textural properties of goat's milk set‐type yoghurt as affected by heat treatment, transglutaminase addition and storage
Authors: Hovjecki Marina , Miloradovic Zorana , Mirkovic Nemanja , Radulovic Ana , Pudja Predrag , Miocinovic Jelena
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Production of goat's milk set‐style yoghurt encounters challenges in achieving the texture characteristic for this type of product, primarily due to protein composition of this milk. This study evaluated the effects of using microbial transglutaminase (mTGase) concomitantly with starter culture in the production of goat's milk yoghurt – a method that has not been employed with this milk type until now– indicating the potential of the enzyme to change yoghurt's textural properties. Goat's milk set yoghurts were produced from milk heated at 72 °C/30 s and 90 °C/5 min, without (G72 and G90) and with mTGase (G72TG and G90TG) and starter culture addition. Protein profiles of goat's milks and yoghurts were also examined by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Yoghurts were evaluated for rheological properties, texture, microbiological and sensory profile over 2 weeks to study the influence of mTGase, pasteurization and storage.

RESULTS

The enzyme caused significant increases of storage moduli at the end of fermentation: 8.32 ± 0.27 Pa (G90TG) and 2.89 ± 0.18 Pa (G72TG) vs. 6.13 ± 0.07 Pa (G90) and 1.27 ± 0.18 Pa (G72) without enzyme. Lower loss tangent values indicated the enhanced elastic character of the gels with enzyme. Enzyme increased yoghurt's firmness from 49.69 ± 2.61 g (G90) to 60.81 ± 5.29 g (G90TG) after 1 day and from 58.21 ± 0.53 g (G90) to 80.45 ± 0.59 g (G90TG) after 15 days’ storage. Enzyme improved starter bacteria survivability during storage of G72TG yoghurt.

CONCLUSION

mTGase can be used simultaneously with the starter culture to improve the rheological properties and texture of goat's milk yoghurt, without deteriorating effect on its flavour. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Applicability of Selective Electrical Surface Stimulation in Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis
Authors: Kurz Annabella , Leonhard Matthias , Ho Guan‐Yuh , Kansy Ines , Schneider‐Stickler Berit
Published: April 2021

Objective

Selective electrical surface stimulation (SES) of the larynx is not yet routinely considered therapy option in treatment of unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP). Goal of this monocentric feasibility study was to provide systematic data on applicability of SES of intrinsic laryngeal muscles in UVFP under consideration of sensitivity and discomfort thresholds and nonselective side effects.

Methods

Thirty‐two UVFP patients were included in the study. Symmetric triangular‐shape, charge‐balanced pulse widths (PWs) of 1, 10, 25, 50, 100, 250, and 500 milliseconds (ms) were tested with increasing amplitudes (AMPs). The stimulation was delivered as a train of five pulses using square surface electrodes. Selective laryngeal responses were examined by flexible laryngoscopy. Nonselective side effects (swallowing reflex, coughing, different severity degrees of unspecific strap muscle/platysma response) were judged by observation.

Results

Selective laryngeal response could be triggered in 28/32 (87.5%) patients during respiration/rest and in 26/32 (81.3%) patients during phonation. The most effective PWs for the selective eliciting of selective bilateral vocal fold adduction are comprised between 50 and 100 ms in combination with an average AMP comprised between 7.1 and 7.2 mA.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that, in UVFP patients, PWs comprised between 50 and 100 ms in combination with a median AMP between 7.1 and 7.2 mA are expected to deliver in >75% of the cases a specific, effective, and safe bilateral adduction of the VF.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E2566–E2572, 2021
Appearance‐Related Distress and Social Functioning after Head and Neck Microvascular Reconstruction
Authors: Zebolsky Aaron L. , Ochoa Edgar , Badran Karam W. , Heaton Chase , Park Andrea , Seth Rahul , Knott P. Daniel
Published: April 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

To better understand aesthetic patient‐reported outcomes and psychosocial quality of life (QOL) after head and neck microvascular reconstruction for benign or malignant tumors.

Study Design

Single‐center prospectively obtained in‐office validated questionnaire‐based study.

Methods

Analysis of prospectively collected surveys at a tertiary care academic center from June 2018 to February 2021. Patients completed two FACE‐Q scales: Appearance‐Related Psychosocial Distress (ARPD) and Social Function (SF). Survey scores, demographics, operative course, and adjuvant therapy data underwent univariate and multivariable analyses.

Results

One hundred and three patients completed surveys at a median of 13.5 months postoperatively (interquartile range: 5.2–30.8). Mean ARPD from 0 (no distress) to 100 (maximum distress) was 32.4 (standard error of the mean [SEM]: 2.7). Mean SF from 0 (worst functioning) to 100 (best functioning) was 55.5 (SEM: 2.7). Postoperative adjuvant radiation was associated with 13.9% higher ARPD (95% CI: 3.4–24.4, P = .019) and 10.4% lower SF (95% CI: −20.7 to −0.1, P = .047). Each appearance‐related question on the ARPD scale independently predicted impaired SF (P < .001 for all questions). Upon multivariable logistic regression, osteocutaneous reconstruction, compared to soft tissue alone (P = .043), and postoperative adjuvant radiation (P = .014) were associated with higher levels of ARPD. Age, sex, relationship status, anxiety or depression history, defect location, and hospital stay were not significantly associated with ARPD or SF scores.

Conclusions

Aesthetic outcomes are important determinants of psychosocial QOL following head and neck microvascular reconstruction: an effect that is worsened by adjuvant radiation. Reconstructive surgeons should prioritize aesthetic outcomes, in addition to functional restoration, to optimize social functioning in patients with head and neck tumors.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E2204–E2211, 2021
Healthy lifestyles and noncommunicable diseases: Nutrition, the life‐course, and health promotion
Authors: Cerf Marlon E.
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, targeted by Sustainable Development Goal 3.4, afflict millions of people and account for the highest global morbidity and mortality. Obesity is associated with noncommunicable diseases. Globally, diets have become sweeter, saltier with higher fat content, whereas physical activity has declined; which triggers the onset of obesity and noncommunicable diseases. Healthy nutrition and regular exercise are the foundations for healthy living and important for preventing noncommunicable diseases, in alignment with health promotion. The preconception, gestational, and lactational periods present windows for improving and optimizing progeny growth and development for better health outcomes. Malnutrition is a major risk factor for noncommunicable diseases; therefore ingesting healthy nutritious food, over the life‐course, is critical for countering these global epidemics that have a more profound adverse impact on people from low‐ and middle‐income countries. To combat obesity and noncommunicable diseases, people's ownership of their health, government action, and private sector responsibility should be aligned and supported by global initiatives and enabled through partnerships and collaborations. Many noncommunicable diseases are avertable through health promotion strategies mainly directed at the maternal and child health lifecycle, by focusing on women of reproductive age (prior to and during pregnancy, and during lactation) and during infancy and childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and ageing. Healthy lifestyles support health promotion and disease prevention, which is cost‐effective for noncommunicable diseases. The global high burden of obesity and noncommunicable diseases remains a complex and prevalent challenge; therefore, the adoption of healthy lifestyles is critical to slow down their onset and exacerbation.
The psychological impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on otolaryngologists: Should we be concerned?
Authors: Ashoor Mona Mohammedsaleh , Almulhem Noorah Jamal , AlMubarak Zaid Abdulrahman , Alrahim Ahmed Abdulrahman , Alshammari Saad Mohammed , Alzahrani Fahad Saleh , Alhayek Ali Radi , Alardhi Abdullah
Published: April 2021

Objective

Physicians on the frontline of the COVID‐19 pandemic are at increased risk of contracting the disease. Otolaryngologists are amongst the high‐risk practitioners, as they are in close proximity to patient's upper airway, which may induce their psychological stress.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey study, conducted among otolaryngologists in Saudi Arabia from June 11 to June 22. Survey consisted of sociodemographic questionnaire, Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS), Obsession with COVID‐19 Scale (OCS) and Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9). Available otolaryngologists with no history of mental health problems were included. A P‐value lower than .05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The study included 129 participants; 63.6% men and 36.4% women. 81.4% of participants were living with family, 57.4% living with either a child or an elderly family member. Nearly 7.8% of participants had dysfunctional COVID‐19 anxiety and 75.2% had COVID‐19‐related depression symptoms ranging from minimal to severe. Obsession and dysfunctional thinking regarding COVID‐19 were found in 26.4% of participants. Single otolaryngologists had significantly higher CAS (P = .025), OCS (P = .048), and PHQ‐9 (P < .001) scores. Participants who lived with children or elderly individuals had significantly higher OCS scores (P = .005). When comparing job ranks, residents had significantly higher scores for the CAS (P = .016) and PHQ‐9 (P < .001).

Conclusion

COVID‐19 has a considerable psychological impact on otolaryngologists. Specifically, the young and single who have less social support. This indicates the importance of psychological support to this group. Additional thorough studies should explore the psychological impact of COVID‐19 in this field as it may carry devastating long‐term consequences if left unattended.

Level of evidence

Level 4.
Video‐Rate Imaging with Undetected Photons
Authors: Gilaberte Basset Marta , Hochrainer Armin , Töpfer Sebastian , Riexinger Felix , Bickert Patricia , León‐Torres Josué Ricardo , Steinlechner Fabian , Gräfe Markus
Published: April 2021

Imaging and microscopy are some of the most important tools in modern life science for getting new insights into metabolisms or unravelling bio‐chemical processes. However, in particular low‐light observations outside the visible spectrum are still challenging and a limiting factor. A rugged, label‐free quantum imaging system is presented capable of recording at video rate in the visible regime, while illuminating the sample with undetected light of different wavelength. The results pave the way for a field deployable quantum imaging device allowing live‐cell imaging in extreme spectral ranges with a minimal photo dose.
Effect of a Small Amount of Synthetic Fiber on Performance of Biocarbon‐Filled Nylon‐Based Hybrid Biocomposites
Authors: Chang Boon Peng , Abdelwahab Mohamed A. , Kiziltas Alper , Mielewski Deborah F. , Mohanty Amar K. , Misra Manjusri
Published: April 2021

Advanced hybrid biocomposites are engineered from nylon 6, waste wood biosourced carbon (biocarbon) with a low content of synthetic fiber for lightweight auto‐parts uses. The novel engineering process through direct injection molding of only 2 wt% synthetic fibers in the form of masterbatch with 20 wt% biocarbon, results outstanding performance of the resulting nylon biocomposites. Such uniquely developed biocomposites show tensile strength of 105 MPa and tensile modulus of 5.14 GPa with a remarkable heat deflection temperature (HDT) of 206 °C. The direct injection molding of synthetic fiber retains the length ≈3 times higher as compared to traditional extrusion and injection molding; resulting greater degree of entanglement and composite reinforcement effectiveness in the hybrid biocomposites. Highly dimensionally stable nylon 6 biocomposites with a very low coefficient of linear thermal expansion results through reinforcing ability of the sustainable biocarbon and small amount of synthetic fiber.
Impact of anatomical variations on ultrasonographic reference values of lower extremity peripheral nerves
Authors: Kuga Junichiro , Hironaka Akemi , Ochi Kazuhide , Sugimoto Takamichi , Nakamori Masahiro , Nezu Tomohisa , Maruyama Hirofumi
Published: April 2021

Introduction/Aims

Cross‐sectional area (CSA) reference values using ultrasonography vary widely for lower extremity peripheral nerves. In addition, there is a lack of data on the muscular branches of the tibial nerve and the anatomical variations of the sural nerve. We aimed to evaluate the ultrasonographic reference values for lower extremity peripheral nerves considering different anatomical variations and physical factors.

Methods

The CSA of the lower extremity nerve was measured at 10 sites. In addition to establishing reference values, differences in the CSA owing to anatomical variations were verified. The relationship between CSA and physical factors, such as age, height, weight, body mass index, and ankle circumference, was also examined.

Results

A total of 100 healthy Japanese volunteers were recruited. The mean CSA of the sural nerve significantly differed depending on its formation pattern (1.4‐1.8 mm2). The mean decreases in CSAs from the proximal to distal tibial and fibular nerves within the popliteal region significantly differed based on the fine branching pattern. The maximum value of the mean decreases in CSAs in the tibial and fibular nerves reached 7.2 and 2.5 mm2, respectively. With respect to physical factors, age and ankle circumferences were associated with CSA at several measurement sites.

Discussion

Fine branching from the tibial and fibular nerves and sural nerve formation may affect CSA measurements. The establishment of accurate CSA reference values requires consideration of anatomical variations in the peripheral nerves of the lower extremity.
Immersed‐interface finite element method based on a nonconformal Petrov–Galerkin formulation
Authors: Patil Mayuresh J.
Published: April 2021

Immersed interface methods are becoming increasingly necessary to solve problems of practical importance. To be considered as replacement for conventional, interface‐fitted, finite element method (FEM), an immersed‐interface finite element method (IIFEM) has to exhibit equivalent accuracy and robustness. The paper develops such an IIFEM based on nonconformal Petrov–Galerkin (ncPG) formulation for two‐dimensional linear elasticity. First, a bimaterial patch test (BPT) is developed which, when satisfied, guarantees consistency of an FEM formulation for problems with two materials in a single element. Then, nodal trial functions that satisfy the BPT are derived for triangular elements with immersed interface. These trial functions satisfy the Hadamard interface conditions for elements with immersed interface but are nonconformal on element edges with an immersed interface. Conventional conformal test functions are used in the Petrov–Galerkin formulation. The proposed ncPG‐IIFEM is applied to a benchmark multimaterial problem. The solution using ncPG‐IIFEM converges optimally and the error in displacement as well as stress are similar to interface‐fitted FEM. The ncPG‐IIFEM also leads to a well‐conditioned linear system with the condition number of the global stiffness matrix similar to interface‐fitted FEM. Overall, the proposed ncPG‐IIFEM is shown to be straightforward in application, optimal in convergence, and robust.
Weight Cycling and Knee Joint Degeneration in Individuals with Overweight or Obesity: Four‐Year Magnetic Resonance Imaging Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Joseph Gabby B. , Ramezanpour Sara , McCulloch Charles E. , Nevitt Michael C. , Lynch John , Lane Nancy E. , Pedoia Valentina , Majumdar Sharmila , Link Thomas M.
Published: April 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between weight cycling and knee joint degeneration in individuals with overweight or obesity with different patterns of weight change over 4 years.

Methods

A total of 2,271 individuals from the Osteoarthritis Initiative database were assessed (case‐control study). Linear regression models using annual BMI measurements over 4 years were used to classify participants as weight cyclers or noncyclers. 3‐T magnetic resonance imaging was used to quantify knee cartilage transverse relaxation time (T2) and cartilage thickness annually over 4 years in all subjects. Whole‐Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scores (WORMS) were obtained for cartilage, meniscus, and bone‐marrow abnormalities in 958 subjects at baseline and at the 4‐year follow‐up. The longitudinal differences in cartilage T2 and thickness between weight cyclers and noncyclers were assessed using general estimating equations, whereas the differences in WORMS outcomes were compared using general linear models.

Results

No significant differences in the rate of change of cartilage thickness or T2 were found between weight cyclers and noncyclers. However, increases in maximum cartilage WORMS (P = 0.0025) and bone‐marrow abnormalities (P = 0.04) were significantly greater in weight cyclers than in noncyclers.

Conclusions

Although participants’ intent for weight cycling in this study was unknown, weight cyclers had significantly greater increases in cartilage and bone‐marrow abnormalities over 4 years than noncyclers, independent of weight gain and loss.
Implementing texting programs in the P.O.W.E.R. (preventing obesity with eating right) medical group visit for weight loss
Authors: Saldivar Perla , Mira Valerie , Duran Petra , Moldovan Christina , Ang Georgina , Parikh Nina , Lee Martin L. , Friedman Theodore C.
Published: April 2021

Background

The effect of incorporating mobile technology to support participants’ lifestyle change and weight loss in medical group visits has not been well studied in a safety‐net setting.

Rationale and Design

Thus, the rationale of the current study was to examine the effect of text messaging in a medical group visit, and test the effect of two texting programs (12 weeks and 20 weeks), compared to those who did not receive text‐messaging in the Preventing Obesity With Eating Right (POWER) group visit program. The primary outcome was weight loss.

Results

We found that those enrolled in the 20‐week and 12‐week texting programs attended more group visit sessions than those enrolled in the POWER group only (p < 0.001). Both POWER and POWER + 20‐week texting groups had a significant reduction in weight at their final group visit compared to their baseline (POWER, 114 ± 27 kg vs. 112 ± 26 kg, p < 0.001; POWER + 20‐week texting, 111 ± 28 kg vs. 109 ± 28 kg, p < 0.01), but not the 12‐week texting group (114 ± 29 kg vs. 113 ± 29 kg, p = 0.22), with no differences between the groups. The number of group visits was correlated with a decrease in weight (rs = 0.12, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In conclusion, text messaging programs led to more attendance in the medical group visits, but not greater weight loss or reduction in HbA1c than the POWER group obesity program alone. Further studies are needed to maximize the beneficial effects of texting programs in medical group visits in underserved minority populations.
BOP1 confers chemoresistance of triple‐negative breast cancer by promoting CBP‐mediated β‐catenin acetylation
Authors: Li Siqi , Wu Haoming , Huang Xinjian , Jian Yunting , Kong Lingzhi , Xu Hongyi , Ouyang Ying , Chen Xiangfu , Wu Geyan , Yu Liang , Wang Xi
Published: April 2021

Chemoresistance is a major obstacle to the treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), which has a poor prognosis. Increasing evidence has demonstrated the essential role of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in the process of TNBC chemoresistance. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, we report that block of proliferation 1 (BOP1) serves as a key regulator of chemoresistance in TNBC. BOP1 expression was significantly upregulated in chemoresistant TNBC tissues, and high expression of BOP1 correlated with shorter overall survival and relapse‐free survival in patients with TNBC. BOP1 overexpression promoted, while BOP1 downregulation inhibited the drug resistance and CSC‐like phenotype of TNBC cells in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, BOP1 activated Wnt/β‐catenin signaling by increasing the recruitment of cyclic AMP response element‐binding protein (CBP) to β‐catenin, enhancing CBP‐mediated acetylation of β‐catenin, and increasing the transcription of downstream stemness‐related genes CD133 and ALDH1A1. Notably, treating with the β‐catenin/CBP inhibitor PRI‐724 induced an enhancement of chemotherapeutic response of paclitaxel in BOP1‐overexpressing TNBC cells. These findings indicate that BOP1 is involved in chemoresistance development and might serve as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target in TNBC. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review on polyaniline composites: Synthesis, characterization, and applications
Authors: Babel Vikram , Hiran Basanti Lal
Published: April 2021

Polyaniline (PANI) is one of the most studied intrinsically conducting polymers. Polyaniline inclusion with different porous materials is a very attractive research area. In this review, the preparation, properties, and applications of PANI composites have been summarized. PANI was found to be promising among the other conducting polymers and incorporated with different materials like graphene, graphene oxide, metal oxide, carbon, carbon nanotube, silica, silicon dioxide, biomolecules, and metal organic frameworks to enhance the area of application. Metal organic framework (MOF) itself has a vast area of application so incorporation of PANI with MOF can open up tremendous possibilities. An attempt has been made to draw attention to the recent spotlight research area that is, PANI‐MOF composites.
Body image in colorectal cancer patients: A longitudinal study
Authors: Song Lili , Pang Ying , Zhang Jie , Tang Lili
Published: April 2021

Objective

To assess changes in body image distress (BID) over time, identify factors associated with BID, and explore the mediating role of body image on the longitudinal association between stoma status (permanent stoma, temporary stoma, or nonstoma) and psychological distress in postoperative colorectal cancer (CRC) patients in China.

Methods

Participants (N = 255) 1–2 weeks postsurgery completed self‐report questionnaires assessing BID (Body Image Scale) and psychosocial distress (Distress Thermometer, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale); 212 (83%) completed 6‐month follow‐up surveys. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify factors associated with BID for longitudinal data analysis.

Results

A total of 46.7% of participants reported BID at follow‐up. Prevalence of BID and BID scores did not significantly change over time in the total sample. Body image scores decreased in patients whose temporary stoma was removed during follow‐up (p < 0.05). Prevalence of BID decreased in nonstoma patients at follow‐up (p < 0.05). There were significant decreases in the prevalence and scores of distress, anxiety, and depression between baseline and follow‐up (p < 0.001). Stoma presence, later clinical stages, greater distress, anxiety, and depression were risk factors for poorer body image. Body image had partial mediating effects on the longitudinal association between stoma status and distress.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that BID remains stable even as psychological distress decreases. BID should be addressed early postoperation to avoid persistent impairment in CRC patients.
Does refuge spillover affect arthropod food webs associated with Bt maize?
Authors: Zuim Vitor , Marques Vinicius M , Godoi Carolina Tavares D , Gontijo Lessando M , Haro Marcelo M , Guedes Raul Narciso C
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

A high dose/refuge combination is the main tactic recommended for mitigating resistance selection of target herbivore species in crops expressing insecticidal proteins of the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (i.e. Bt proteins). The tactic consists of the simultaneous use of Bt crops expressing high levels of the Bt protein associated with neighboring areas of refuge of the same non‐Bt crop species. Nonetheless, the approach faces controversy regarding its effectiveness and scale of adoption, at least in some regions. One concern focuses on its potential impact on the arthropod community, including its short‐term and spatially dependent impact considering the likely biota spillover effect between Bt and non‐Bt neighboring areas. Thus, the eventual spillover of Bt maize targeted and non‐targeted arthropods was surveyed along transects extending from the refuge border to the center of the Bt maize area.

RESULTS

Arthropods were collected throughout the maize vegetative and reproductive stages. A total of 85 arthropod species were collected, but their richness and abundance did not vary with distance from the refuge. By contrast, cultivation season played a significant role in distinguishing the arthropod communities. Refuge distance from the sampling point within Bt‐fields did not significantly affect the food web metrics, unlike season, which affected the number of nodes integrating each food web. Winter maize cultivation exhibited higher arthropod diversity and combined values of species numeric abundance and biomass at each trophic level.

CONCLUSIONS

No arthropod spillover was evident between the refuge edge and Bt maize, adding further controversy to the tactic currently subjected to lower usage in the region with a disputed cost–benefit relationship, because not even the target and its interdependent species were affected. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
In silico approach of secondary metabolites from Brazilian herbal medicines to search for potential drugs against SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Amparo Tatiane R. , Seibert Janaína B. , Almeida Tamires C. , Costa Fernanda S. F. , Silveira Benila M. , da Silva Glenda N. , dos Santos Orlando D. H. , de Souza Gustavo H. B.
Published: April 2021

The new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) recently emerged as a worrying pandemic, with many confirmed cases and deaths globally. Therefore, there is a clear need for identifying effective therapeutic options and a review of secondary metabolites related to Brazilian herbal medicines was performed as a strategy for the discovery of new antiviral agents. To confirm this potential, an in silico screening of the identified compounds identified was also evaluated. The review was performed by the PubMed database and the selected natural compounds were subjected to in silico analysis such as QSAR, molecular docking and ADMET. 497 secondary metabolites were identified from 23 species. The in silico assays indicated 19 potential anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 compounds, being triterpenes and phenolic compounds. The indicated compounds showed a high affinity with proteins considered as the main molecular targets against SARS‐CoV‐2 and parameters indicated low toxicity. In addition to Brazilian medicinal plants, these compounds can be found in other species and they can be a base for the synthesis of other anti‐COVID‐19 drugs. Therefore, this review is important to conduct researches that address the emerging need for drugs in COVID‐19 treatment.
Environmental drivers of benthic fish assemblages and fish‐habitat associations in offshore areas of a very large river
Authors: Szalóky Zoltan , Füstös Vivien , Tóth Balazs , Erős Tibor
Published: April 2021

Fish‐habitat associations are poorly known in offshore areas of very large rivers. We examined physical habitat structure and its effect on habitat use and assemblage formation of benthic fishes in the main channel of the Danube River, Hungary. Principal component analysis of physical variables showed that sample unit (i.e., 500 m long reaches) and cross‐channel transect‐level data of corresponding reaches were highly correlated. We found clear gradients in physical variables from areas with high velocity and higher proportion of hard substratum (pebble and cobble) to areas with low velocity, high mean depth and finer substratum (mainly sand) composition. Variation in velocity was coupled with variation in both mean depth and substratum composition (i.e., Shannon diversity of sediment composition) and higher proportion of silt material. Differences in physical habitat structure (flow, substrate) also manifested among river segments. Classification and regression tree analyses (CART) and fish abundance – occupancy patterns in the PCA template revealed that many species showed clear responses to environmental heterogeneity (barbel, Barbus barbus; schraetser, Gymnocephalus schraetser; Danube streber, Zingel streber; whitefinned gudgeon, Romanogobio vladikovy; round goby, Neogobius melanostomus) while others (white bream, Blicca bjoerkna) showed very elusive habitat use patterns. Multivariate regression tree analysis confirmed the results of CART and indicated that transect‐level substratum composition was the most important determinant in the formation of benthic assemblages. These results on habitat use can contribute to the more effective conservation management of offshore fish assemblages, which is important due to increasing inland navigation in the Danube River.
Leveraging synergies versus resource redeployment: Sales growth and variance in product portfolios of diversified firms
Authors: Giarratana Marco S. , Pasquini Martina , Santaló Juan
Published: April 2021

Research Summary

This article analyzes the relationship between sales growth and variance for diversified firms. Distinguishing product niches linked by scale free versus non‐scale free resources, this study predicts that the more a firm diversifies leveraging on a non‐scale free resource, the more likely its sales growth and variance are positively correlated. However, this relationship is negatively moderated by the presence of a scale‐free resource such that the presence of scale‐free resources of high value implies a negative correlation. These theoretical intuitions are consistent with data from 2008 to 2013, reflecting firm sales growth rates in five industries spanning 45 product niches in seven EU countries and the United Kingdom. These industries prioritize shelf space as a non‐scale free resource, and brand as a scale free resource.

Managerial Summary

Diversifiers may base their value creation either in pursuing synergies or in exploiting the benefits derived by internal resource redeployment across products or across industries. Here, we highlight the different managerial implications on risk/performance structure derived from diversification based on resource redeployment compared to diversified companies exploiting synergies. Can the disparity of sales growth between products of the same firm's portfolio be good for the corporate performance? Here, we show that diversification based on resource redeployment goes hand in hand with a positive relation between overall firm growth and variance of results within the same firm. On the contrary, firm diversification based on synergies implies a negative relationship between within firm disparity and overall firm growth.
Effect of carrier particle size on enrichment and shift in nitrifier community behaviors for treating increased strength wastewater
Authors: Liu Fang , Hu Xiaomin , Zhao Xin , Gao Yong
Published: April 2021

In activated sludge systems, adding carriers can improve nitrifier enrichment. Different attachment area induced by different particle sizes of carriers may result in different nitrifier community. This research investigated the effect of different particle sizes of coal ash on nitrifier enrichment treating increased strength wastewater. Results indicated efficient nitrifying coal ash was obtained with smaller coal ash. The ammonia removal rates reached over 98%, which outclassed that in negative control (63.28%), and no nitrite accumulated in these systems under high nitrogen concentration of 1123.35 mg N/L. The high‐throughput sequencing assays indicated carriers changed the microbial community structure significantly, thus facilitated the nitrification capacity. Increase abundance of nitrifier has a negative correlation with particle size of carriers.Nitrosomonasbecame the biggest beneficiary, which maximum composed 50.29% in fillers system and only 13.69% in negative control, whereas the number ofNitrobacter(less than 3.04%) became much lower than ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB). However, the shift of microbial structures, large number ofDokdonellafor instance, may guarantee the complete nitrification in systems with smaller carriers. Batch experiments showed a high dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration (4 mg/L) and slightly alkaline condition (pH 8.0) had a positive effect on nitrifying coal ash.

Practitioner points

The increase size of nitrifier has a negative correlation with particle size of coal ash.

The smaller coal ash reduces the adverse effect of high nitrogen on nitrification.

The ammonia removal rate reached 99.82% with influent of 1123.35 mg/L in the smallest carriers system.
Immunohistochemical evidence for adult human neurogenesis in health and disease
Authors: Gault Natalie , Szele Francis G.
Published: April 2021

Postnatal and adult neurogenesis in the subventricular zone and subgranular zone of animals such as rodents and non‐human primates has been observed with many different technical approaches. Since most techniques used in animals cannot be used in humans, the majority of human neurogenesis studies rely on postmortem immunohistochemistry. This technique is difficult in human tissue, due to poor and variable preservation of antigens and samples. Nevertheless, a survey of the literature reveals that most published studies provide evidence for childhood and adult neurogenesis in the human brain stem cell niches. There are some conflicting results even when assessing the same markers and when using the same antibodies. Focusing on immunohistochemical studies on post‐mortem human sections, we discuss the relative robustness of the literature on adult neurogenesis. We also discuss the response of the subventricular and subgranular zones to human disease, showing that the two niches can respond differently and that the stage of disease impacts neurogenesis levels. Thus, we highlight strong evidence for adult human neurogenesis, discuss other work that did not find it, describe obstacles in analysis, and offer other approaches to evaluate the neurogenic potential of the subventricular and subgranular zones of Homo sapiens.

This article is categorized under:

Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development

Reproductive System Diseases > Stem Cells and Development