bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differentiation between wild and artificial cultivated Stephaniae tetrandrae radix using chromatographic and flow‐injection mass spectrometric fingerprints with the aid of principal component analysis
Authors: Qin Ya‐dong , Fang Feng‐man , Wang Rong‐bin , Zhou Juan‐juan , Li Lin‐hua
Published: June 2020

High‐performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) and flow‐injection mass spectrometric (FIMS) fingerprinting profiles were used to differentiate between wild and artificial cultivated Stephaniae tetrandrae Radix samples. HPLC and FIMS fingerprints of 15 wild S. tetrandrae Radix samples and 12 artificial cultivated S. tetrandrae Radix samples were obtained and analyzed with the aid of principal component analysis (PCA). PCA of the fingerprints showed that the chemical differences between wild and artificial cultivated S. tetrandrae Radix samples could be differentiated by either HPLC or FIMS fingerprints. The HPLC fingerprints provided more chemical information but required longer analytical time compared with FIMS fingerprints. This study indicated that the wild samples contained higher concentrations of almost all of the major compounds than the cultivated samples. Three characteristic compounds which were responsible for the differences between the samples were tentatively identified with the aid of MS data. Furthermore, these three compounds, tetrandrine (TET), fangchinoline (FAN), and cyclanoline (CYC), were quantified. The HPLC and FIMS fingerprints combined with PCA could be used for quality assessment of wild and artificial cultivated S. tetrandrae Radix samples.
Metabolite analysis of wheat dough fermentation incorporated with buckwheat
Authors: Wang Binchen , Xiao Lin , Chai Duo , Jiang Yumeng , Wang Meiting , Xu Xianbing , Li Chongwei , Dong Liang
Published: June 2020

Dough fermentation represents an important developmental stage in the manufacturing process. In this study, volatile and nonvolatile metabolite analysis were carried out to investigate time‐dependent metabolic changes in the course of wheat dough fermentation incorporated with buckwheat based on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS). A total of 70 nonvolatile metabolites were identified, covering a broad spectrum of polar (e.g., amino acids, sugars, sugar alcohols, and acids) and nonpolar (e.g., fatty acid methyl esters, free fatty acids, and sterols) low molecular weight dough constituents. Meanwhile, sixty‐four volatile metabolites comprising aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, organic acids, aromatic compounds, and furans were identified using solid‐phase micro‐extraction combined with GC–MS. Some differences may exist in the volatile composition between fermented and unfermented dough. Statistical assessment of the nonvolatile data via principal component analysis demonstrated that the metabolic changes during the mixed dough fermentation are reflected by time‐dependent shifts of polar nonvolatile metabolites. And some potential nutritional markers, such as amino acids and sugars, could be developed to optimize and control the industrial dough fermentation incorporated with buckwheat.
Lipoprotein receptor loss in forebrain radial glia results in neurological deficits and severe seizures
Authors: Bres Ewa E. , Safina Dina , Müller Julia , Bedner Peter , Yang Honghong , Helluy Xavier , Shchyglo Olena , Jansen Stephan , Mark Melanie D. , Esser Alexander , Steinhäuser Christian , Herlitze Stefan , Pietrzik Claus U. , Sirko Swetlana , Manahan‐Vaughan Denise , Faissner Andreas
Published: June 2020

The Alzheimer disease‐associated multifunctional low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein‐1 is expressed in the brain. Recent studies uncovered a role of this receptor for the appropriate functioning of neural stem cells, oligodendrocytes, and neurons. The constitutive knock‐out (KO) of the receptor is embryonically lethal. To unravel the receptors' role in the developing brain we generated a mouse mutant by specifically targeting radial glia stem cells of the dorsal telencephalon. The low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein‐1 lineage‐restricted KO female and male mice, in contrast to available models, developed a severe neurological phenotype with generalized seizures during early postnatal development. The mechanism leading to a buildup of hyperexcitability and emergence of seizures was traced to a failure in adequate astrocyte development and deteriorated postsynaptic density integrity. The detected impairments in the astrocytic lineage: precocious maturation, reactive gliosis, abolished tissue plasminogen activator uptake, and loss of functionality emphasize the importance of this glial cell type for synaptic signaling in the developing brain. Together, the obtained results highlight the relevance of astrocytic low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein‐1 for glutamatergic signaling in the context of neuron–glia interactions and stage this receptor as a contributing factor for epilepsy.
Pathology protocol increases lymph node yield in neck dissection for oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Holcomb Andrew J. , Perryman Mollie , Goodwin Sara , Penn Joseph , Villwock Mark R. , Bur Andrés M. , Shnayder Yelizaveta , Tsue Terance T. , Woodroof Janet , Kakarala Kiran
Published: June 2020

Background

Lymph node yield (LNY) is a proposed quality indicator in neck dissection for oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC).

Methods

Retrospective series including 190 patients with OCSCC undergoing neck dissection between 2016 and 2018. A change in pathologic grossing protocol was initiated during the study period to assess residual adipose tissue. A generalized linear model was used to assess the impact of multiple variables on LNY.

Results

Mean LNY was 28.59 (SD = 17.65). The protocol identified a mean of 10.32 lymph nodes per case. Multivariable analysis identified associations between LNY and use of the pathology protocol (P = .02), number of dissected lymph node levels (P < .001), presence of pathologic lymph nodes (P = .002), body mass index (P = .02), prior neck surgery (P = .001), and prior neck radiation (P = .001).

Conclusions

Assessment of residual adipose tissue within neck dissection specimens improves accuracy of LNY. LNY in neck dissection is influenced by multiple factors including methods of pathologic assessment.
Adherence to a Western dietary pattern and risk of bladder cancer: A pooled analysis of 13 cohort studies of the Bladder Cancer Epidemiology and Nutritional Determinants international study
Authors: Dianatinasab Mostafa , Wesselius Anke , Salehi‐Abargouei Amin , Yu Evan Y. W. , Brinkman Maree , Fararouei Mohammad , van den Brandt Piet , White Emily , Weiderpass Elisabete , Le Calvez‐Kelm Florence , Gunter Marc , Huybrechts Inge , Liedberg Fredrik , Skeie Guri , Tjonneland Anne , Riboli Elio , Giles Graham G. , Milne Roger L. , Zeegers Maurice P.
Published: June 2020

Little is known about the association of diet with risk of bladder cancer. This might be due to the fact that the majority of studies have focused on single food items, rather than dietary patterns, which may better capture any influence of diet on bladder cancer risk. We aimed to investigate the association between a measure of Western dietary pattern and bladder cancer risk. Associations between adherence to a Western dietary pattern and risk of developing bladder cancer were assessed by pooling data from 13 prospective cohort studies in the “BLadder cancer Epidemiology and Nutritional Determinants” (BLEND) study and applying Cox regression analysis. Dietary data from 580 768 study participants, including 3401 incident cases, and 577 367 noncases were analyzed. A direct and significant association was observed between higher adherence to a Western dietary pattern and risk of bladder cancer (hazard ratio (HR) comparing highest with lowest tertile scores: 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.37, 1.72; P‐trend = .001). This association was observed for men (HR comparing highest with lowest tertile scores: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.51, 1.96; P‐trend = .001), but not women (P‐het = .001). Results were consistent with HR above 1.00 after stratification on cancer subtypes (nonmuscle‐invasive and muscle‐invasive bladder cancer). We found evidence that adherence to a Western dietary pattern is associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer for men but not women.
Handling and performance characteristics of a new small caliber radiopaque embolic microsphere
Authors: Lewis Andrew L. , Caine Marcus , Garcia Pedro , Ashrafi Koorosh , Tang Yiqing , Hinchcliffe Lorcan , Guo Wei , Bascal Zainab , Kilpatrick Hugh , Willis Sean L.
Published: June 2020

The in vitro and in vivo handling and performance characteristics of a small caliber radiopaque embolic microsphere, 40–90 μm DC Bead LUMI™ (LUMI40‐90), were studied. Microsphere drug loading and elution and effects on size, suspension, and microcatheter delivery were evaluated using established in vitro methodologies. In vivo evaluations of vascular penetration (rabbit renal artery embolization), long‐term biocompatibility and X‐ray imaging properties, pharmacokinetics and local tissue effects of both doxorubicin (Dox) and irinotecan (Iri) loaded microspheres (swine hepatic artery embolization) were conducted. Compared to 70–150 μm DC Bead LUMI (LUMI70‐150), LUMI40‐90 averaged 70 μm versus 100 μm, which was unchanged upon drug loading. Handling, suspension, and microsphere delivery studies were successfully performed. Dox loading was faster (20 min) and Iri equivalent (<10 min) while drug elution rates were similar. Contrast suspension times were longer with no delivery complications. Vascular penetration was statistically greater (rabbit) with no unexpected adverse safety findings (swine). Microspheres ± drug were visible under X‐ray imaging (CT) at 90 days. Peak plasma drug levels and area under the curve were greater for LUMI40‐90 compared to LUMI70‐150 but comparable to 70–150 μm DC BeadM1™ (DC70‐150). Local tissue effects showed extensive hepatic necrosis for Dox, whereas Iri displayed lower toxicity with more pronounced lobar fibrosis. LUMI40‐90 remains suspended for longer and have greater vessel penetration compared to the other DC Bead LUMI sizes and are similarly highly biocompatible with long‐term visibility under X‐ray imaging. Drug loading is equivalent or faster with pharmacokinetics similar to DC70‐150 for both Dox and Iri.
Prognostic significance of regional lymph node metastasis according to station in ampullary carcinoma
Authors: Tashiro Keita , Kuroki Naomi , Einama Takahiro , Iwasaki Toshimitsu , Miyata Yoichi , Aosasa Suefumi , Inoue Yosuke , Takahashi Yu , Ogata Sho , Ueno Hideki , Hase Kazuo , Yamamoto Junji , Kishi Yoji
Published: June 2020

Background

The TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) classification of the 8th Union for International Cancer Control and the 6th Japanese classification of biliary tract cancer were made on the premise that the prognostic effect of each regional lymph node station is similar. However, some studies have reported different effects of lymph node metastasis location on post‐resection prognosis. This study aimed to investigate outcome following radical resection of ampullary carcinoma according to station of lymph node metastasis.

Methods

Patients who underwent surgical resection for ampullary carcinoma between January 2007 and December 2017 at two separate Japanese institutions were included. Regional lymph nodes were subclassified as follows: Pancreatoduodenal lymph nodes (PD) and others (OT).

Results

Of the 101 patients analyzed, 34 had regional lymph node metastasis. OT metastasis was found in eight patients. Significant differences were found in relapse‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) between the three study groups (no nodal metastasis, only PD metastasis and OT metastasis; P < .001 for both). OT metastasis was an independent prognostic factor in the multivariate analysis for RFS (hazard ratio [HR] 17.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.33‐43.93) and OS (HR 11.06; 95% CI, 3.7‐32.99).

Conclusion

The poor prognosis of ampullary carcinoma patients with OT metastasis suggests that regional lymph nodes should not be categorized equally into one group.
Synthesis of new‐type 1,3,6‐triazocine via intramolecular reactions of iodocyclization and [3+2] azido cycloaddition
Authors: Vaskevych Ruslan I. , Vaskevych Alla I. , Rusanov Eduard B. , Mel'nyk Oksana Ya. , Vovk Mykhailo V.
Published: June 2020

Selective iodocyclization of 6‐(alkenylamino)‐1‐allylpyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidines provided hydrogenated derivatives of 1‐allyl‐8(9)‐iodomethylimidazo(pyrimido)[1,2‐a]pyrazolo[4,3‐e]pyrimidines which were further reacted with NaN3 at 75°С to 80°С to give a series of new‐type 1,3,6‐triazocines annulated with the pyrazole, pyrimidine, imidazole (or pyrimidine), and 1,2,3‐triazole rings. The compounds synthesized were structurally characterized by analytical, spectral (IR, 1H and 13C NMR, HPLC‐mass), and X‐ray diffraction data.
The implications of increased mammographic breast density for breast screening in Jordan
Authors: Al‐Mousa Dana S. , Alakhras Maram , Spuur Kelly M. , Alewaidat Haytham , Abdelrahman Mostafa , Rawashdeh Mohammad , Brennan Patrick C.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Mammographic breast density is associated with a four to six times increased risk for breast cancer. Mammographic breast density varies by ethnicity, geographical region and age. The aim of this study was to document for the first time the mammographic breast density of Jordanian women and to explore its relationship with age.

Methods

Mammograms completed at King Abdullah University Hospital (Irbid, Jordan) between January 2016 and August 2018 were retrospectively reviewed and classified for breast density using the American College of Radiology (ACR) Breast Imaging‐Reporting and Data System (BI‐RADS). Descriptive analyses and Kurskal–Wallis test were used to examine the association between age and mammographic breast density.

Results

A total of 659 mammograms were reviewed. A significant inverse relationship was observed between age and breast density (P < 0.001). In women aged 40–49 years, 83.2% had dense breasts (ACR BI‐RADS (c) and (d)). This percentage decreased to 59.8% of women aged 50–59 years; 38.4% of women in their 60s and 37.9% of women aged 70 years or older (ACR BI‐RADS (c) only).

Conclusion

The mammographic breast density of Jordanian women has been shown to be high across all age groups. Increased mammographic breast density is associated with increased breast cancer risk and renders mammography a less effective technique for the early detection of breast cancer. Breast cancer screening of Jordanian women should be individualised to develop screening protocols and include additional adjunct imaging to best manage women at high risk.
Enteric viruses circulating in undiagnosed central nervous system infections at tertiary hospital in São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Rocha Leonardo Cecílio da , Estofolete Cássia Fernanda , Milhim Bruno Henrique Gonçalves de Aguiar , Augusto Marcos Tayar , Zini Nathalia , Silva Gislaine Celestino Dutra da , Ferraz‐Junior Hélio Correa , Brienze Vânia Maria Sabadoto , Liso Elisabete , Cunha Mariana Sequetin , Sabino Ester Cerdeira , da Costa Antonio Charlys , Nogueira Maurício Lacerda , Luchs Adriana , Terzian Ana Carolina Bernardes
Published: June 2020

Enterovirus (EV) is commonly associated with central nervous system (CNS) syndromes. Recently, gastroenteric viruses, including rotavirus (RVA), human astrovirus (HAstV), and norovirus (NoV), have also been associated with CNS neurological disorders. The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of EV, RVA, HAst, and NoV associated to CNS infections with undiagnosed etiology in Northwest region of São Paulo State, Brazil, and to conduct the molecular characterization of the positive samples detected. A total of 288 cerebrospinal fluid samples collected from July to December 2017 were tested for EV and NoV by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), HAstV by conventional RT‐PCR, and RVA by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Positive‐EV samples were inoculated in cells lines, amplified by RT‐PCR and sequenced. RVA, NoV, and HAstV were not detected. EV infection was detected in 5.5% (16/288), and five samples successful genotyped: echovirus 3 (E3) (1/5), coxsackie virus A6 (CVA6) (1/5), and coxsackie virus B4 (CVB4) (3/5). Meningitis was the main syndrome observed (12/16; 75%). CVA6, CVB4, and E3 were identified associated with aseptic meningitis. Reports of CVA6 associated with aseptic meningitis are rare, E3 had not been previously reported in Brazil, and epidemiological data on CVB4 in the country is virtually unknown. The present investigation illustrates the circulation of diverse EV types in a small regional sample set and in a short period of time, highlighting the importance of an active EV surveillance system in CNS infections. Enhanced understanding of undiagnosed CNS infections will assist in public health and health care planning.
The role of transparency in procurement: Revealed versus concealed scoring rules in sealed bid A + B auctions
Authors: Quiroga Bernardo F. , Moritz Brent B. , Guide V. Daniel R.
Published: June 2020

We investigate the impact of using a clear scoring rule in a sealed bid multi‐dimensional (A+B) procurement auction, as frequently used in government procurement. The central procurement agency in Chile (ChileCompra) asked for help to understand how concealing the scoring rule affected buyers. Using an experiment, we analyze the effect of transparently communicating the scoring rule on bidding outcomes by comparing the buyer's surplus and supplier profits when buyers expressly communicate the weight they place on a nonmonetary (B) attribute, versus when this information is concealed from bidders. In addition, we compare outcomes where the scoring rule is made visible only after the offers are submitted. If the scoring rule is not disclosed, outcomes are poorer for buyers, and sellers see their profits increase.
A brief history of tendon and ligament bioreactors: Impact and future prospects
Authors: Dyment Nathaniel A. , Barrett Jennifer G. , Awad Hani A. , Bautista Catherine A. , Banes Albert J. , Butler David L.
Published: June 2020

Bioreactors are powerful tools with the potential to model tissue development and disease in vitro. For nearly four decades, bioreactors have been used to create tendon and ligament tissue‐engineered constructs in order to define basic mechanisms of cell function, extracellular matrix deposition, tissue organization, injury, and tissue remodeling. This review provides a historical perspective of tendon and ligament bioreactors and their contributions to this advancing field. First, we demonstrate the need for bioreactors to improve understanding of tendon and ligament function and dysfunction. Next, we detail the history and evolution of bioreactor development and design from simple stretching of explants to fabrication and stimulation of two‐ and three‐dimensional constructs. Then, we demonstrate how research using tendon and ligament bioreactors has led to pivotal basic science and tissue‐engineering discoveries. Finally, we provide guidance for new basic, applied, and clinical research utilizing these valuable systems, recognizing that fundamental knowledge of cell‐cell and cell‐matrix interactions combined with appropriate mechanical and chemical stimulation of constructs could ultimately lead to functional tendon and ligament repairs in the coming decades.
Spent mushroom compost enhances plant response and phytoremediation of heavy metal polluted soil
Authors: Asemoloye Michael Dare , Chukwuka Kanayo Stephen , Jonathan Segun Gbolagade
Published: June 2020

Background: Stimulatory efficacy of spent mushroom compost (SMC) cannot be overemphasized.

Aims: In this study, the effect of SMC on phytoremediation and plant's response to heavy metal polluted soil was investigated and suggested for the establishment of feasible soil remediation.

Methods: Heavy metal polluted soil (80 kg) was sterilized at 121°C in soil sterilizer for 30 min and repeated four more times to remove microbial interference. Five kg of soil was packed into pots supplemented with SMC of Pleurotus ostreatus at different concentrations of 10, 20, 30, and 40%, and control (no SMC), and used to grow the test plant (Megathyrsus maximus commonly known as Guinea grass) for 90 d. Effect of SMC treatments on chemical characteristics of the soil was determined through soil analysis before and after the experiment. Plant response to SMC in polluted soils was studied by observing root proliferation, plant growth, and biomass.

Results: The results suggest that SMC treatment modified soil chemical characteristics, the germination index (GI), plant growth, and phytoremediation potential. The soil's pH increased from 4.3 in control to 6.8 both in 40 and 30% SMC treatments; also the soil's nutrients, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and GI improved with incremental increase in SMC treatments, while the heavy metal removal was best observed at 40 and 30% treatments. In addition, the bio‐stimulatory effect of SMC was confirmed on guinea grass root proliferation, growth, phytomass and its phytoremediation potentials on heavy metals.

Conclusions: The SMC is therefore suggested for soil stimulation to improve plant's growth and phytoremediation.
Principles of assessment and management of urinary tract infections in older adults
Authors: Godbole Gauri P. , Cerruto Nicole , Chavada Ruchir
Published: June 2020

Differentiating between urinary tract infection and asymptomatic bacteriuria can be a challenge in older adults. It can be difficult to identify patients who have atypical symptoms to make a diagnosis of urinary tract infection. In the absence of classic symptoms and positive urine cultures, there is often unnecessary prescription of antibiotic therapy. Asymptomatic bacteriuria can persist in older people and evaluation of other signs and symptoms like abdominal pain and urinary frequency can be difficult in confused or cognitively impaired patients. This review describes the epidemiology and risk factors for urinary tract infection in older adults, the role of urine dipstick testing and urine cultures, the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infection, catheter‐associated and complicated urinary tract infections, and antibiotic prophylaxis for recurrent urinary tract infections.
Antibiotic drug release behavior of poly (vinyl alcohol)/sodium alginate hydrogels
Authors: Xie L. , Wei H. , Kou L. , Ren L. , Zhou J.
Published: June 2020

Poly (vinyl alcohol)/sodium alginate hydrogels were prepared by freeze‐thaw followed by calcium ion crosslinking. Chloramphenicol release behavior from the poly (vinyl alcohol)/sodium alginate hydrogels in mimic conditions of gastrointestinal tract was examined. The effects of composition, number of freeze‐thaw cycles and calcium ion concentration on drug release process were investigated. The results showed that the cumulative release amount of chloramphenicol from the hydrogels (crosslinked through 4 freeze‐thaw cycles and immersed in 2 % calcium chloride solution) decreased from 84.3 % to 72.3 % as sodium alginate content increased from 0 % to 75 %. For the hydrogels containing 50 % sodium alginate and immersed in 2 % calcium chloride solution after the freeze‐thaw cycles, cumulative release amount of chloramphenicol decreased from 83.5 % to 76.6 % as the freeze‐thaw cycles increased from 2 to 6. Cumulative release amount of chloramphenicol from the hydrogels containing 50 % sodium alginate and with 4 freeze‐thaw cycles decreased from 79.8 % to 75.6 % when concentration of calcium chloride solution increased from 1 % to 4 %.
Different prevalence of T2DM risk alleles in Roma population in comparison with the majority Czech population
Authors: Hubáček Jaroslav A. , Šedová Lenka , Olišarová Věra , Adámková Věra , Tóthová Valérie
Published: June 2020

Background

The Czech governmental study suggests up to a 25% higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the Roma population than within the majority population. It is not known whether and to what extent these differences have a genetic background.

Methods

To analyze whether the frequencies of the alleles/genotypes of theFTO,TCF7L2,CDKN2A/2B,MAEA,TLE4,IGF2BP2,ARAP1,andKCNJ11genes differ between the two major ethnic groups in the Czech Republic, we examined them in DNA samples from 302 Roma individuals and 298 Czech individuals.

Results

Compared to the majority population, Roma are more likely to carry risk alleles in theFTO(26% vs. 16% GG homozygotes,p < .01),IGF2BP2(22% vs. 10% TT homozygotes,p < .0001),ARAP1(98% vs. 95% of A allele carriers,p < .005), andCDKN2A/2B(81% vs. 66% of TT homozygotes,p < .001) genes; however, less frequently they are carriers of theTCF7L2risk allele (34% vs. 48% of the T allelep < .0005). Finally, we found significant accumulation of T2DM‐associated alleles between the Roma population in comparison with the majority population (25.4% vs. 15.2% of the carriers of at least 12 risk alleles;p < .0001).

Conclusion

The increased prevalence of T2DM in the Roma population may have a background in different frequencies of the risk alleles of genes associated with T2DM development.
Fat‐Shaped Microbiota Affects Lipid Metabolism, Liver Steatosis, and Intestinal Homeostasis in Mice Fed a Low‐Protein Diet
Authors: Busnelli Marco , Manzini Stefano , Jablaoui Amin , Bruneau Aurélia , Kriaa Aïcha , Philippe Catherine , Arnaboldi Francesca , Colombo Alice , Ferrari Benedetta , Ambrogi Federico , Maguin Emmanuelle , Rhimi Moez , Chiesa Giulia , Gérard Philippe
Published: June 2020

Scope

Protein malnutrition is characterized by stunted growth, hepatic steatosis and a damaged gut mucosal architecture. Since high‐fat shaped gut microbiota (HFM) has an increased ability in providing nutrients and energy from food to the host, the aim of this study is to determine whether such a microbiota could beneficially impact on the consequences of malnutrition.

Methods and results

The cecal content of specific pathogen free C57Bl/6J mice fed a high‐fat diet or a low‐protein diet is transplanted in two groups of germ‐free C57Bl/6J recipient mice, which are subsequently fed a low‐protein diet for 8 weeks. Body weight gain is comparable between the two groups of microbiota‐recipient mice. The HFM led to a worsening of microvesicular steatosis and a decrease of plasma lipids compared to the low‐protein shaped microbiota. In the small intestine of mice receiving the HFM, although significant histological differences are not observed, the expression of antimicrobial genes promoting oxidative stress and immune response at the ileal epithelium (Duox2, Duoxa2, Saa1, Ang4, Defa5) is increased.

Conclusion

The transplant of HFM in mice fed a low‐protein diet represents a noxious stimulus for the ileal mucosa and impairs hepatic lipoprotein secretion, favoring the occurrence of hepatic microvesicular steatosis.
Preconditioning for accurate solutions of ill‐conditioned linear systems
Authors: Ye Qiang
Published: June 2020

This article develops the preconditioning technique as a method to address the accuracy issue caused by ill‐conditioning. Given a preconditioner M for an ill‐conditioned linear system Ax=b, we show that, if the inverse of the preconditioner M−1 can be applied to vectors accurately, then the linear system can be solved accurately. A stability concept called inverse‐equivalent accuracy is introduced to describe the high accuracy that is achieved and an error analysis will be presented. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the error analysis and the performance of the methods.
Novel displacement function for discontinuous deformation analysis based on mean value coordinates
Authors: Jiang Wei , Xu Junjie , Zheng Hong , Wang Yanhai , Sun Guanhua , Yang Yongtao
Published: June 2020

The rotation degree of freedom in discontinuous deformation analysis (DDA) may cause false volume expansion when a block undergoes a large rotation. We propose a block displacement function to prevent this defect. Specifically, the degrees of freedom in a block are redefined by incremental displacements at its vertices, and displacement is formulated based on the mean value coordinates. In addition, the finite element method with updated Lagrangian formulation is employed to derive the equilibrium equations, while the contact analysis and implicit time integration for dynamics is maintained from the original DDA. After each time step, the block configuration is updated by adding the new degrees of freedom to the previous coordinates of the block vertices. Results from numerical examples confirm the effectiveness of the proposed approach to prevent false volume expansion, ensure correctness of contact analysis, and provide realistic stress results when simulating large rotations.
Coupled thermo‐mechanical algorithm for fractured rock mass by the composite element method
Authors: Xue Luan‐Luan , Ni Jia , Wang Lin‐Wei , Zhou Mi , Chen Sheng‐Hong , Shahrour Isam
Published: June 2020

To assess the influence of thermal stress on fracture deformation, a composite element algorithm of thermo‐mechanical coupling for fractured rock mass is developed based on the composite element method (CEM). This study aims to investigate coupled processes associated with the (i) effect of temperature on mechanical deformation and (ii) effect of fracture aperture on heat transfer. The composite element contains fracture segments exhibiting arbitrary shapes with variables that can be interpolated from their mapped nodal variables; the mapped variables can be determined using the governing equations derived from the variational principle or virtual work principle. The proposed coupling algorithm can simulate the discontinuity of fractures, with consideration of the heat transfer of rock blocks and fractures, together with heat exchange among fractures and the adjacent rock mass. A computational mesh is generated without restrictions by explicitly embedding the fractures into the mapped composite elements, substantially simplifying the pre‐process work. Analytic solutions to the transient temperature problem are examined to verify the proposed CEM algorithm. Two three‐dimensional numerical models are developed to perform thermo‐mechanical coupling analyses. These analyses are used to prove the advantage of the mesh handler and the reliability of the proposed algorithm. During coupling with the CEM model, the computational mesh requires no modification regardless of changes in fracture aperture. Results indicate that an increase in temperature leads to rock expansion, causing fracture deformation, which affects the general temperature of the fractured rock mass.
A Simplified Thermal Proteome Profiling Approach to Screen Protein Targets of a Ligand
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Ruan Chengfei , Zhu He , Li Kejia , Zhang Wenbo , Wang Keyun , Hu Lianghai , Ye Mingliang
Published: June 2020

Thermal proteome profiling is a powerful energetic‐based chemical proteomics method to reveal the ligand‐protein interaction. However, the costly multiplexed isotopic labeling reagent, mainly Multiplexed isobaric tandem mass tag (TMT), and the long mass spectrometric time limits the wide application of this method. Here a simple and cost‐effective strategy by using dimethyl labeling technique instead of TMT labeling is reported to quantify proteins and by using the peptides derived from the same protein to determine significantly changed proteins in one LC‐MS run. This method is validated by identifying the known targets of methotrexate and geldanamycin. In addition, several potential off‐targets involved in detoxification of reactive oxygen species pathway are also discovered for geldanamycin. This method is further applied to map the interactome of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the 293T cell lysate by using ATP analogue, adenylyl imidodiphosphate (AMP‐PNP), as the ligand. As a result, a total of 123 AMP‐PNP‐sensitive proteins are found, of which 59 proteins are stabilized by AMP‐PNP. Approximately 53% and 20% of these stabilized candidate protein targets are known as ATP and RNA binding proteins. Overall, above results demonstrated that this approach could be a valuable platform for the unbiased target proteins identification with reduced reagent cost and mass spectrometric time.
Practice Patterns of Physicians Using Adjunct Therapies with Botulinum Toxin Injection for Spasticity: A Canadian Multicenter Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Ip Alvin H. , Phadke Chetan P. , Boulias Chris , Ismail Farooq , Mills Patricia B.
Published: June 2020

Background

Adjunct therapies are nonpharmacological treatments used with botulinum toxin (BoNT) injection that may improve spasticity outcomes. It has been suggested that physicians consider adjunct therapies as a part of comprehensive spasticity management. It is unclear which adjunct therapies are used by physicians in clinical practice.

Objective

To determine physician practice patterns and perceptions of use of adjunct therapies following BoNT injection for limb spasticity.

Design

Cross‐sectional national survey of current clinical practice using a 22‐item questionnaire developed by the authors.

Setting

Not applicable.

Participants

Survey respondents were physicians actively administering BoNT injections for limb spasticity management across Canada (N = 48).

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Types of adjunct therapies used by physicians; physician opinions on barriers to adjunct therapy use, patient preferences, and future research priorities.

Results

Most physicians prescribe home stretching programs, home active exercise programs, and splinting; however, many physicians perceive that these same adjunct therapies are unwanted by patients. A minority of physicians prescribe electrical stimulation (ES), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), casting, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy; financial limitations and perceived lack of evidence were identified as barriers to their use. Significantly more physicians practicing in academic settings compared with nonacademic, community, and private practice settings used functional ES (59% vs 11%) and TENS (41% vs 0%) as adjunct therapies (P < .05). Research priorities included determining the effectiveness of immediate postinjection application of adjunct therapies (eg, injected muscle activation with ES or stretching) and nutraceuticals.

Conclusions

Canadian physicians frequently use adjunct therapies in combination with BoNT injection to treat spasticity. Financial and time constraints are identified as barriers to implementation of adjunct therapies that are currently supported by research, and patient preferences may also affect compliance. Future research should focus on adjunct therapies that overcome these barriers.
Prevalence and clinical significance of common respiratory pathogens in the upper respiratory tract of children with community‐acquired pneumonia in Zunyi, China
Authors: Li Xinmiao , Zhang Weiwei , Yao Shifei , Zha He , Huang Bo , Liu Daishun , Wu Kaifeng
Published: June 2020

Purpose

To estimate the prevalence of common respiratory pathogens among children with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) in Zunyi City, Guizhou, China, and to assess whether the presence of common respiratory pathogens in patients is associated with disease severity.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective study assessed the prevalence of common respiratory viruses and bacteria in the upper respiratory tract of among infants and children aged 1 month to 5 years hospitalized with radiologically confirmed CAP between April 2017 and March 2018. Direct immunofluorescence assay and bacterial culture were used to identify viruses and bacteria in the upper airway specimens, respectively. The association between severe CAP and the presence of pathogens was determined using multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

Of the 685 patients enrolled, 583 cases had viral and/or bacterial pathogens detected, which included the presence of only viral pathogens, only bacterial pathogens, and mixed viral and bacterial pathogens in 34.3%, 29.7%, and 36.0% of cases, respectively. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was the most common viral pathogen, with a prevalence rate of 39.9% (273/685). Haemophilus influenzae was the most commonly detected bacterial pathogen, with a prevalence rate of 15.3% (105/685). The presence of RSV (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3‐2.8) and Staphylococcus aureus (aOR, 13.7; 95% CI, 5.5‐33.9) in children with CAP was associated with severe pneumonia.

Conclusions

In a cohort of Zunyi infants and children hospitalized with CAP, RSV was the most common pathogen.
The Bactrocera dorsalis caspase‐1 gene is expressed throughout development and required for female fertility
Authors: Liu Guiqing , Lv Zhichuang , Wu Qiang , Zhou Zhongshi , Zhang Guifen , Wan Fanghao , Yan Ying
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis is one of the most destructive pests of fruits and vegetables. The sterile insect technique (SIT) is an effective and environmentally friendly approach to the control of tephritid fruit flies. The pro‐apoptotic gene head involution defective (hid) has been used as an effective lethal effector in SIT. It initiates an interaction cascade including activation of caspase‐like proteases. However, the biological role of caspase activity in tephritid fruit flies has yet to be explored.

RESULTS

In this study, the B. dorsalis caspase‐1 gene (Bdcp‐1) was cloned and characterized. Sequence comparison showed that Bdcp‐1 protein shared highly homology with Drosophila effector caspases Drice and Dcp‐1. It is predicted to contain a short pro‐domain because two proteolytic cleavage sites (Asp16 and Asp223) are present. Expression patterns indicated that Bdcp‐1 is highly transcribed in embryos and expression was upregulated during metamorphosis and upon ultraviolet irradiation. RNA interference showed that Bdcp‐1 is essential for ovarian development and female fertility. For example, knockdown of Bdcp‐1 caused transcriptional downregulation of expression of the yolk protein‐1 gene (Bdyp‐1) and delayed ovarian development. The percentage of spawning females and female fecundity were significantly reduced.

CONCLUSION

This study illustrates the function of the Bdcp‐1 gene and provides an attractive method to develop a biological way to control the oriental fruit fly through the control of caspases. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Spectral Analysis of X‐Ray Absorption Near Edge Structure in α‐Fe2O3 Based on Bayesian Spectroscopy
Authors: Iwamitsu Kazunori , Yokota Tatsuhiro , Murata Koki , Kamezaki Mao , Mizumaki Masaichiro , Uruga Tomoya , Akai Ichiro
Published: June 2020

A Bayesian spectroscopy technique is proposed to decompose weak pre‐edge structures from an X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectrum. This methodology can perform model selection based on an information criterion of Bayes free energy. To explain the entire XANES spectrum measured at Fe K‐edge of α‐Fe2O3 with a partial fluorescence yield method, a phenomenological model of an absorption edge structure and plural Gaussian peak structures is introduced. The absorption edge structure is constructed by a step profile by an arctangent function and an accompanying peak by a pseudo‐Voigt function. As the result of model selection for estimating the number K of Gaussian components, it is found that the models of have posterior probabilities of the model selection. In these models, in spite of the number of Gaussian components being different, the pre‐edge structure is definitely decomposed to three components, and it is found that posterior probability distributions of the parameters for these components hardly change in these models (). This result shows that an appropriate spectral decomposition of the pre‐edge structure is realized. In addition, the robustness of such spectral decomposition is confirmed based on the evaluation of estimating accuracy of all spectral parameters by their posterior probability distributions.
Effects of tea consumption on metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Liu Wei , Wan Chunpeng , Huang Yingjie , Li Mingxi
Published: June 2020

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is one of the major health hazards and an epidemic worldwide. There is no known best remedy has been defined yet. In the current investigation, we designed a meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to evaluate the beneficial effects of tea consumption in alleviating metabolic syndromes. Herein, we accumulated the relevant literature available on PubMed and EMBASE databases from January, 2000 to August, 2019. RCTs bearing impact factor of at least 1 or more were studied for the effect of tea consumption on MetS. This meta‐analysis suggested that tea consumption has beneficial effects on diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and this finding was characterized of all types of tea in the current study and also for body mass index (BMI) value. Furthermore, this analysis also found that black tea consumption has protective effects on systolic SBP, green tea reduces the incidence of diabetes and lower the level of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. These functions required BMI value at least 28 or higher. The meta data led us to conclude that tea consumption have protective effects on MetS, however, different types of tea might have different protective mechanisms on MetS, but, exact mechanisms are not yet clear and needs to be explored.
On mixed memory control charts based on auxiliary information for efficient process monitoring
Authors: Anwar Syed Masroor , Aslam Muhammad , Riaz Muhammad , Zaman Babar
Published: June 2020

Control charts are popular monitoring tools in statistical process control toolkit. These are used to identify assignable causes in the process parameters (location and/or dispersion). These assignable causes result in a shift in the process parameter(s). The shift can be categorized into three sizes (small, moderate, and large). Memory control charts such as the exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) and cumulative sum (CUSUM) charts are effective for identifying small‐to‐moderate shift(s) in the process. Likewise, mixed memory control charts are useful for efficient process monitoring. In this study, we have proposed two new mixed memory control charts based on auxiliary information named MxMEC and MxMCE control charts to improve the efficiency of these mixed charts. The MxMEC chart is a merger of the auxiliary information based MxEWMA chart and the classical CUSUM chart. Likewise, the MxMCE chart integrates the auxiliary information based MxCUSUM with the classical EWMA chart. The proposed MxMEC and MxMCE charts are evaluated through famous performance measures including average run length, extra quadratic loss, relative average run length, and performance comparison index. The performance of the study proposals is compared with the existing counterparts such as the classical CUSUM and EWMA, MxCUSUM, MxEWMA, MEC, MCE, and runs rules‐based CUSUM charts. The comparisons revealed the superiority of the proposed charts against other competing charts particularly for small‐to‐moderate shifts in the process location. Finally, a real‐life data is used to show the implementation procedure of the proposed charts in practical situations.
A varying terminal time structure for stochastic optimal control under constrained condition
Authors: Yang Shuzhen
Published: June 2020

In this study, we propose a varying terminal time structure for the optimal control problem under state constraints, in which the terminal time follows the varying of the control via the constrained condition. Focusing on this new optimal control problem, we investigate a novel stochastic maximum principle, which differs from the traditional optimal control problem under state constraints. The optimal pair of the optimal control model can be verified via this new stochastic maximum principle.
Measurement of lithium diffusion coefficient in thin metallic multilayer by neutron depth profiling
Authors: Ceccio Giovanni , Vacik Jiri , Horák Pavel , Cannavò Antonino , Hnatowicz Vladimir
Published: June 2020

Diffusion of Li ions in thin sandwich films with copper or lead encompassing layers (obtained by ion beam sputtering deposition technique) has been studied. These metals are promising candidates for electrodes in lithium‐ion batteries. It is because they exhibit an ability to store and release Li ions during charging and discharging processes. Lithium diffusion was induced in samples by thermal annealing cycles. The lithium depth profile was measured using a nondestructive neutron depth profiling technique after each thermal annealing step. The analysis of experimental data allowed to evaluate the lithium depth profiles and directly calculate the diffusion coefficients.
Semiparametric copula‐based analysis for treatment effects in the presence of treatment switching
Authors: Huang Chia‐Hui , Chen Yi‐Hau , Wang Jinn‐Li , Wang Mey
Published: June 2020

In controlled trials, “treatment switching” occurs when patients in one treatment group switch to alternative treatments during the trial, and poses challenges to treatment effect evaluation owing to crossover of the treatments groups. In this work, we assume that treatment switching can occur after some disease progression event and view the progression and death events as two semicompeting risks. The proposed model consists of a copula model for the joint distribution of time‐to‐progression (TTP) and overall survival (OS) up to the earlier of the two events, as well as a conditional hazard model for OS subsequent to progression. The copula model facilitates assessing the marginal distributions of TTP and OS separately from the association between the two events, and, in particular, the treatment effect on OS in the absence of treatment switching. The proposed conditional hazard model for death subsequent to progression allows us to assess the treatment switching (crossover) effect on OS given occurrence of progression and covariates. Semiparametric proportional hazards models are employed in the marginal models for TTP and OS. A nonparametric maximum likelihood procedure is developed for model inference, which is verified through asymptotic theory and simulation studies. The proposed analysis is applied to a lung cancer dataset to illustrate its real utility.
Structure and Monomer Ratio of Lignin in C3H and HCT RNAi Transgenic Poplar Saplings
Authors: Zhou Xianwu , Yang Sheng , Lu Mengzhu , Zhao Shutang , Cai Liping , Zhang Yaoli , Zhao Rongjun , Lv Jianxiong
Published: June 2020

Wild type poplar hybrid (Populus alba × P. glandulosa cv‘84k′), p‐coumaroyl shikimate 3′‐hydroxylase (C3H) downregulated transgenic poplar and hydroxycinnamoyl CoA: shikimate hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HCT) downregulated transgenic poplar were used as experimental materials. The techniques of two‐dimensional heteronuclear single‐quantum coherence nuclear magnetic resonance (2D‐HSQC‐NMR) spectroscopy and pyrolysis coupled to gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (Py‐GC/MS) were used for the analysis and comparison of the lignin structure and monomer ratio between the wild type poplar hybrid and transgenic plants. The results of these analyses showed that the lignin of all poplar samples contained β‐O‐4′ aryl ether linkages and their derivative substructures, resinol substructures, spirodienone substructures, phenylcoumarane substructures, p‐hydroxycinnamyl alcohol end groups, syringyl units, p‐hydroxyphenyl units, guaiacyl units, p‐hydroxybenzoate substructures, and ferulate. Downregulation of C3H and HCT in double transgenic poplar reduced the β‐O‐4′ relative content of lignin in poplar. The S unit, H unit, and S/G ratio in the C3H‐downregulated transgenic poplar were increased, while its G unit was decreased. The S unit and S/G ratio in HCT‐downregulated transgenic poplar were decreased while its G unit was increased. The C3H‐downregulated transgenic poplar was a superior material for biomass energy, pulping, and papermaking than the HCT‐downregulated transgenic poplar.