bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of nitrogen regulation and strip intercropping on faba bean biomass, nitrogen accumulation and distribution, and interspecific interactions
Authors: Luo Chaosheng , Zhu Jinhui , Ma Liankun , Guo Zengpeng , Dong Kun , Dong Yan
Published: May 2021

Effects of nitrogen fertilization on the accumulation and distribution of biomass and plant nitrogen content in intercropped faba beans, together with its impact on the interspecific interactions between faba bean and wheat has not been well studied. Here, we have used a logistic model to analyze the cropping systems (i.e., monocropped faba bean, monocropped wheat, and faba bean intercropped with wheat) by evaluating the effects of different levels of nitrogen application on the dynamic changes in biomass and nitrogen accumulation, along with the interspecific interaction. Using monocropped and intercropped faba beans in field experiments spanning two years, we found that nitrogen application increased both monocropped and intercropped faba bean yields. The yield of intercropped faba beans was greatest at the lower nitrogen input for two consecutive years. Nitrogen application increased the biomass and nitrogen accumulation in both monocropped and intercropped faba beans. The simulation parameters that increased were maximum nitrogen accumulation (A') and maximum accumulation rate (R'max) while the initial cumulative rate (r') decreased. Compared with monocropping, intercropped faba bean–wheat showed increased yield and biomass accumulation, along with a significantly increased initial growth rate (r) and a maximum instantaneous growth rate (Rmax). Intercropping reduced stem and leaf biomass and the nitrogen distribution ratio while increasing the pod content. In the early intercropped faba bean growth stage, there was no competition for nutrients or any kind of yield advantage, while in the later stages, the nutrient competitiveness of intercropping was stronger than the intraspecific competition, showing the advantages of intercropping on biomass and yield (i.e., relative crowding coefficient [K] >1, relative interspecific competitiveness [RC] >0, and relative competition intensity [RCI] <0). In summary, nitrogen application of 45 kg ha–1 could be the desired amount that maximizes the nutrient competition and interspecific advantages in the middle and late stages of faba bean growth when intercropped, thus contributing to the yield.
Impairment of episodic memory in genetic frontotemporal dementia: A GENFI study
Authors: Poos Jackie M. , Russell Lucy L. , Peakman Georgia , Bocchetta Martina , Greaves Caroline V. , Jiskoot Lize C. , van der Ende Emma L. , Seelaar Harro , Papma Janne M. , van den Berg Esther , Pijnenburg Yolande A.L. , Borroni Barbara , Sanchez‐Valle Raquel , Moreno Fermin , Laforce Robert , Graff Caroline , Synofzik Matthias , Galimberti Daniela , Rowe James B. , Masellis Mario , Tartaglia Carmela , Finger Elizabeth , Vandenberghe Rik , de Medonça Alexandre , Tagliavini Fabrizio , Butler Chris R. , Santana Isabel , Ber Isabelle Le , Gerhard Alex , Ducharme Simon , Levin Johannes , Danek Adrian , Otto Markus , Sorbi Sandro , Pasquier Florence , van Swieten John C. , Rohrer Jonathan D. ,   the Genetic FTD Initiative, GENFI
Published: May 2021

Introduction

We aimed to assess episodic memory in genetic frontotemporal dementia (FTD) with the Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT).

Methods

The FCSRT was administered in 417 presymptomatic and symptomatic mutation carriers (181 chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 [C9orf72], 163 progranulin [GRN], and 73 microtubule‐associated protein tau [MAPT]) and 290 controls. Group differences and correlations with other neuropsychological tests were examined. We performed voxel‐based morphometry to investigate the underlying neural substrates of the FCSRT.

Results

All symptomatic mutation carrier groups and presymptomatic MAPT mutation carriers performed significantly worse on all FCSRT scores compared to controls. In the presymptomatic C9orf72 group, deficits were found on all scores except for the delayed total recall task, while no deficits were found in presymptomatic GRN mutation carriers. Performance on the FCSRT correlated with executive function, particularly in C9orf72 mutation carriers, but also with memory and naming tasks in the MAPT group. FCSRT performance also correlated with gray matter volumes of frontal, temporal, and subcortical regions in C9orf72 and GRN, but mainly temporal areas in MAPT mutation carriers.

Discussion

The FCSRT detects presymptomatic deficits in C9orf72‐ and MAPT‐associated FTD and provides important insight into the underlying cause of memory impairment in different forms of FTD.
Outdoor life in dementia: How predictable are people with dementia in their mobility?
Authors: Bayat Sayeh , Mihailidis Alex
Published: May 2021

Introduction

People with dementia (PWD) often become disoriented, which increases their risk of getting lost. This article explores the extent to which we can predict future whereabouts of PWD by learning from their past mobility patterns using Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking devices.

Methods

Seven older adults with dementia and eight healthy older adults completed 8 weeks of GPS data collection. We computed the probability that an appropriate algorithm can correctly predict the participant's future destinations using spatial and temporal patterns in each participant's GPS trajectories.

Results

Relying on both spatial and temporal patterns, our results suggest that a 4‐week record of mobility patterns displays 95% potential predictability across the dementia group, which is significantly higher than 92% potential predictability among the controls, t(13) = –3.39, P < .01, d = –1.75. That is, we can hope to be able to predict destinations of PWD about 95% of the time and destinations of controls about 92% of the time.

Discussions

Our findings on predictability of mobility patterns among PWD offer new perspectives on predictive mobility models that can be used to locate missing persons with dementia.
Seven‐year follow‐up of persistent postsurgical pain in cardiac surgery patients: A prospective observational study of prevalence and risk factors
Authors: Harrogate Suzanne R. , Cooper Jackie A. , Zawadka Mateusz , Anwar Sibtain
Published: May 2021

Background

Our aim was to describe the long‐term prevalence, risk factors and impact on quality of life of persistent postsurgical pain (PPP) following cardiac surgery.

Methods

All patients undergoing sternotomy in a single centre over 6 months were prospectively interviewed by telephone at six months and seven years following surgery.

Results

We analysed data from 174 patients at six months and 146 patients at seven years following surgery, revealing a PPP prevalence of 39.7% (n = 69) and 9.6% (n = 14) respectively.

At six post‐operative months, younger age, higher acute pain score, intraoperative remifentanil infusion and more prolonged surgery were associated with sternotomy‐site PPP. These variables, in combination, predict PPP in this study group with area under the receiver operating curve of 0.91 (95% CI 0.86–0.94) at 6 months and 0.74 (95% CI 0.57–0.86) at 7 years. Quality of life scores were significantly lower with PPP (median change in EQ‐5D score = −0.23 [−0.57, −0.09] compared to 0.00 [0–0.24] without PPP at 7 years, p < 0.001). At7 years, younger age, prolonged surgery and intraoperative remifentanil infusion were associated with sternotomy‐site PPP.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the longest follow‐up of PPP across all surgical specialities and certainly within cardiac surgery. Prevalence of PPP and impact on QOL after cardiac surgery are high and associated with young age, high acute pain score, use of remifentanil and long operative time. We present a predictive score to highlight patients at risk of developing PPP.

Significance

Seven years after cardiac surgery, almost 10% of patients in this cohort described persistent pain in and around the incision. While higher than previous reports in the literature (limited to up to five post‐operative years), this assessment was made following three maximal coughs and therefore is movement or function evoked. High incident of persistent postsurgical pain may adversely affect long‐term quality of life which is measured using a validated tool.
Amantadine prevented hypersensitivity and decreased oxidative stress by NMDA receptor antagonism after spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Mata‐Bermudez Alfonso , Ríos Camilo , Burelo Masha , Pérez‐González Cuauhtémoc , García‐Martínez Betzabé Anahí , Jardon‐Guadarrama Gustavo , Calderón‐Estrella Francisco , Manning‐Balpuesta Norman , Diaz‐Ruiz Araceli
Published: May 2021

Background

Neuropathic pain (NP) after spinal cord injury (SCI) is a disabling condition, without an effective treatment. Hyperexcitability of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors and oxidative stress have been reported to be associated with pain development. Amantadine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, has been proposed as a potential therapy for NP. However, its use has not been tested for NP after SCI.

Methods

To produce SCI, 120 female Wistar rats were used, a contusion injury to the T10 and T12 thoracic vertebrae was performed from heights of 6.25 mm and 12.5 mm. Nociceptive behaviour, was evaluated with the use of von Frey filaments for 31 days. The final products of lipid peroxidation (LP) and concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH) in the injured tissue were quantified by fluorescence spectrophotometry. The antinociceptive effect of the acute (15 days after the injury) and chronic (once daily for three days immediately after the injury) with amantadine (6.25–50 mg/Kg. I.p.) was determined. Finally, the LP and GSH were quantified in the injured tissue.

Results

Acute treatment with amantadine reduced nociceptive behaviour. Concomitantly, LP was decreased by Amantadine treatment while GSH increased in the injured tissue. Similar effects were observed with chronic treatment with amantadine.

Conclusions

Data from this study suggested that the antinociceptive effects of amantadine treatment are modulated through oxidative stress and excitotoxicity reduction associated with N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors activation.

Significance

This study suggests that acute treatment with amantadine decreases hypersensitivity threshold and frequency of hypersensitivity response in a dose‐dependent manner, in rats with SCI, by decreasing oxidative stress. Since amantadine is an easily accessible drug and has fewer adverse effects than current treatments for hypersensitivity threshold and frequency of hypersensitivity response, amantadine could represent a safe and effective therapy for the treatment of neuropathic pain. However, further research is required to provide evidence of the effectiveness and feasibility.
Long‐term opioid treatment and endocrine measures in chronic non‐cancer pain patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Diasso Pernille D. K. , Frederiksen Benedikte S. , Nielsen Susanne D. , Main Katharina M. , Sjøgren Per , Kurita Geana P.
Published: May 2021

Background and Objective

Long‐term opioid treatment (L‐TOT) of chronic non‐cancer pain (CNCP) patients has been suspected to alter the endocrine system. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed at investigating the published evidence of L‐TOT effects on the endocrine system in adult CNCP patients.

Databases and Data Treatment

A systematic search of the literature in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and the CINAHL was performed. Studies examining measures of endocrine function of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal, ‐adrenal, ‐thyroid, ‐somatotropic and ‐prolactin axis in adult CNCP patients in L‐TOT (≥4 weeks of use) were included. Outcomes and the level of evidence were analyzed (The Cochrane Collaboration Tool, modified version of the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale and Rating of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation working group).

Results

A total of 2,660 studies were identified; 1981 excluded and finally thirteen studies (one randomized controlled trial (RCT), three longitudinal‐ and nine cross‐sectional studies) were analyzed. L‐TOT was associated with low insulin, suppression of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis and alterations of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis in both men and women with CNCP compared to different control groups (CNCP or healthy pain‐free). No other significant differences were reported. The studies had a high risk of bias and the overall quality of evidence was low.

Conclusion

There seems to be an impact of L‐TOT in CNCP patients on several components of the endocrine system, but the level of evidence is weak. Given the high prevalence of L‐TOT use systematic studies of larger patient populations are urgently needed.

Significance

This systematic review and meta‐analysis suggested that long‐term opioid treatment may suppress the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis, and result in lower insulin levels and alter the glucocorticoid adrenal axis in adult chronic non‐cancer pain patients. This adds to the need of more research of both clinical and paraclinical outcomes and their association when initiating and maintaining long‐term opioid treatment.
Tolerance to low phosphorus was enhanced by an alternate wetting and drying regime in rice
Authors: Deng Yaping , Qiao Shengfeng , Wang Weilu , Zhang Weiyang , Gu Junfei , Liu Lijun , Zhang Hao , Wang Zhiqin , Yang Jianchang
Published: May 2021

Phosphorus (P) deficiency is a limiting factor for sustainable rice (Oryza sativa L.) production. However, little is known about how rice varieties that differ in tolerance to low P perform under water‐saving irrigation. In this study, we characterized the responses of two rice varieties, ZD88 that has a weak tolerance to low soil P and YJ2 that has a strong tolerance to low soil P to two irrigation regimes under both optimal P (NP, 46.9 mg/kg Olsen‐P) and low P (LP, 6.8 mg/kg Olsen‐P). The first irrigation regime involved continuous flooding (CF), while the second involved alternate wetting and moderate soil drying (AWD). The study was conducted in plants grown in pot over two years. YJ2 exhibited stronger tolerance to LP than ZD88 under both irrigation regimes. Compared to CF, plants grown with AWD produced higher grain yields and had increased phosphorus translocation efficiencies, as well as higher metabolic phosphorus efficiencies and increased phosphorus harvest index values. The water use efficiencies of the two rice varieties were increased under both NP and LP under AWD conditions. The AWD regime also resulted in higher shoot dry weights and increased photosynthesis rates under LP compared with CF. Moreover, the remobilization of non‐structural carbohydrates from stems to the grain was also increased under the AWD regime, together with higher activities of sucrose‐phosphate synthase, sucrose synthase and peroxidases and increased abscisic acid contents in grains. Root dry weights and root to shoot ratios were also increased under AWD conditions, together with increased root acid phosphatase activities. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the AWD regime benefits rice production under LP environment.
Development of a stakeholder identification and analysis method for human factors integration in work system design interventions – Change Agent Infrastructure
Authors: Berlin Cecilia , Bligård Lars‐Ola , Babapour Chafi Maral , Eriksson Siw
Published: May 2021

In any work system design intervention—for example, a physical workplace re‐design, a work process change, or an equipment upgrade—it is often emphasized how important it is to involve stakeholders in the process of analysis and design, to gain their perspectives as input to the development, and ensure their future acceptance of the solution. While theusersof an artifact or workplace are most often regarded as being the most important stakeholders in a design intervention, in a work‐system context there may be additional influential stakeholders who influence and negotiate the design intervention's outcomes, resource allocation, requirements, and implementation. Literature shows that it is uncommon for empirical ergonomics and human factors (EHF) research to apply and report the use of any structured stakeholder identification method at all, leading to ad‐hoc selections of whom to consider important. Conversely, other research fields offer a plethora of stakeholder identification and analysis methods, few of which seem to have been adopted in the EHF context. This article presents the development of a structured method for identification, classification, and qualitative analysis of stakeholders in EHF‐related work system design intervention. It describes the method's EHF‐related theoretical underpinnings, lessons learned from four use cases, and the incremental development of the method that has resulted in the current method procedure and visualization aids. The method, called Change Agent Infrastructure (abbreviated CHAI), has a mainly macroergonomic purpose, set on increasing the understanding of sociotechnical interactions that create the conditions for work system design intervention, and facilitating participative efforts.
Deep convolution neural networks to differentiate between COVID‐19 and other pulmonary abnormalities on chest radiographs: Evaluation using internal and external datasets
Authors: Cho Yongwon , Hwang Sung Ho , Oh Yu‐Whan , Ham Byung‐Joo , Kim Min Ju , Park Beom Jin
Published: May 2021

We aimed to evaluate the performance of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in the classification of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) disease using normal, pneumonia, and COVID‐19 chest radiographs (CXRs). First, we collected 9194 CXRs from open datasets and 58 from the Korea University Anam Hospital (KUAH). The number of normal, pneumonia, and COVID‐19 CXRs were 4580, 3884, and 730, respectively. The CXRs obtained from the open dataset were randomly assigned to the training, tuning, and test sets in a 70:10:20 ratio. For external validation, the KUAH (20 normal, 20 pneumonia, and 18 COVID‐19) dataset, verified by radiologists using computed tomography, was used. Subsequently, transfer learning was conducted using DenseNet169, InceptionResNetV2, and Xception to identify COVID‐19 using open datasets (internal) and the KUAH dataset (external) with histogram matching. Gradient‐weighted class activation mapping was used for the visualization of abnormal patterns in CXRs. The average AUC and accuracy of the multiscale and mixed‐COVID‐19Net using three CNNs over five folds were (0.99 ± 0.01 and 92.94% ± 0.45%), (0.99 ± 0.01 and 93.12% ± 0.23%), and (0.99 ± 0.01 and 93.57% ± 0.29%), respectively, using the open datasets (internal). Furthermore, these values were (0.75 and 74.14%), (0.72 and 68.97%), and (0.77 and 68.97%), respectively, for the best model among the fivefold cross‐validation with the KUAH dataset (external) using domain adaptation. The various state‐of‐the‐art models trained on open datasets show satisfactory performance for clinical interpretation. Furthermore, the domain adaptation for external datasets was found to be important for detecting COVID‐19 as well as other diseases.
Rab3 proteins and cancer: Exit strategies
Authors: Raffaniello Robert D.
Published: May 2021

Rab proteins are GTPases involved in all stages of vesicular transport and membrane fusion in mammalian cells. Individual Rab proteins localize to specific cellular organelles and regulate a specific membrane trafficking pathway. Recent studies suggest an important role for Rab proteins in cancer. Rab3 isoforms (Rab3A, Rab3B, Rab3C, and Rab3D) are expressed almost exclusively in neurons and secretory cells. In this review, the role of Rab3 isoforms in a variety of tumor types is discussed. Of the four Rab3 isoforms, Rab3D has been studied most extensively in cancer cells and this isoform appears to play an oncogenic role in breast, colon, esophageal, skin, and brain tumors. Overexpression of Rab3A and Rab3C was observed in gliomas and colon cancers, respectively. Increased expression of the Rab3 isoforms is related to increased proliferation, migration, and invasiveness. Moreover, high Rab3 isoform levels are often associated with decreased survival and advanced pathological stage in clinical samples. Rab3 isoform‐dependent activation of the AKT pathway has been observed in several studies. Although the effects of Rab3 isoforms on cancer cell growth and function have been examined in many tumor types, a number of important questions remain. Are the Rab3‐positive vesicles in cancer cells actually secretory in nature? If so, are the contents of these vesicles secreted in a regulated or constitutive manner? How does Rab3‐regulated secretion affect cellular signaling and tumor growth? Finally, can Rab3 isoforms be therapeutically manipulated in cancer cells? The fact that knockout of a single Rab3 isoform does not affect viability, at least in mouse models, suggests that targeting of these proteins may be a safe and effective treatment strategy for tumor cells expressing any of the Rab3 isoforms.
The human WNT5A isoforms display similar patterns of expression but distinct and overlapping activities in normal human osteoblasts
Authors: Bhandari Dristi , Elshaarrawi Ahmed , Katula Karen S.
Published: May 2021

WNT5A activates noncanonical Wnt signaling pathways and has critical functions in early development, differentiation, and tissue homeostasis. Two major WNT5A protein isoforms, which in this study we term WNT5A‐L(A) and WNT5A‐S(B), have been identified that differ by 18 AA at their amino terminus. Functional differences between the isoforms have been indicated in studies utilizing cancer cell lines but the activities of the isoforms in normal cells and during differentiation have not been explored. We examined the WNT5A isoforms in the normal osteoblast cell line hFOB1.19. WNT5A‐L(A) and WNT5A‐S(B) transcripts increased from Days 3 to 21 of differentiation but WNT5A‐S(B) showed a greater fold‐change. In undifferentiated cells, there are 2‐fold more WNT5A‐L(A) than WNT5A‐S(B) transcripts. Total intracellular WNT5A protein increased up to 3‐fold during differentiation. siRNA knockdown of total WNT5A leads to a decrease in the expression of the differentiation markers, osteocalcin and RUNX2. Conditioned medium containing the isoform proteins [CM‐L(A) and CM‐S(B)] was used to analyze the effects of the isoforms on β‐catenin and noncanonical signaling, proliferation, gene expression, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Treatment with both CM‐L(A) and CM‐S(B) reduced β‐catenin signaling. CM‐L(A) but not CM‐S(B) significantly increased the proliferation of nondifferentiated hFOB1.19 cells. CM‐L(A) enhanced osteocalcin transcripts over 2‐fold in differentiating cells, whereas CM‐S(B) had no effect. Analysis of differentiating cells up to Day 21 revealed no significant effect of treatment with CM‐L(A) or CM‐S(B) on ALP activity or osteocalcin gene expression. pJNK levels were unaffected in proliferating cells by treatment with neither isoform. pPKC increased slightly in CM‐L(A)‐treated cells at 15 min but by 2 h pPKC levels were less than the control. CM‐S(B) had a more robust effect on pPKC levels that continued up to 2 h. Together these results suggest that the WNT5A isoforms have distinct and overlapping functions in normal osteoblasts.
A feasible approach to improve forecast skill of summer precipitation in northeast China by statistical regression of the northeast China cold vortex in the multimodel ensemble
Authors: Ding Ting , Gao Hui
Published: May 2021

Hindcasts during 1991–2010 are analysed to investigate the forecast skills for summer precipitation in northeast China (NEC) and circulations in northeast Asia with a leading time of 1‐month in three operational climate models and their equally weighted mean. It is found that the precipitation prediction ability of all the models and their combinations are much low in NEC. However, both the single model and their averages can well reproduce the basic summer circulation characteristics over Northeast Asia, especially the northeast China cold vortex (NECV) that directly affects precipitation in NEC. Observed precipitation is significantly correlated with the forecasted vorticities in each model and their combinations, particularly in the ensemble mean of the models (MME). Furthermore, the interannual variability of the NECV in MME agrees well with the observations. Linear regression between the simulated NECV and the precipitation in NEC is established for each model and their averages. The root‐mean‐square errors (RMSEs) of precipitation forecast from the regression of NECV are much lower than the direct outputs in above models, while the correlation coefficients (CCs) are much higher. The CC between observation and forecasts by the regression method based on the NECV in MME is the highest (0.5), closest to the value of 0.58 in observation, and the RMSE is the smallest (0.54), decreased by 13% compared with MME direct outputs. The cross‐validation during the 20 years can provide better prediction skills with a CC of 0.37, higher than that for the single‐model outputs, the averages of random two models and the MME. Independent forecasts also provide higher prediction skills than the official forecast of China Meteorological Administration in 4 years during 2013–2018, especially the extreme flood summer of 2013. The results indicate it might be a feasible approach to improve the prediction skill of summer precipitation in NEC.
α‐globulin‐rich rice cultivar, low glutelin content‐1 (LGC‐1), decreases serum cholesterol concentration in exogenously hypercholesterolemic rats
Authors: Yuan Xingyu , Minobe Yutaro , Tanaka Yasutake , Fukuda Yumi , Furukawa Yumiko , Miyago Motonori , Mizokami Takuya , Tsai Wei‐Ting , Jiang Zhe , Tong Li‐Tao , Akasaka Taiki , Shirouchi Bungo , Toyosawa Yoshiko , Kumamaru Toshihiro , Sato Masao
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Rice α‐globulin has been reported to have serum cholesterol‐lowering activity in rats. However, it is still unclear whether α‐globulin exerts this effect when taken as one of the dietary components. In the present study, we investigated the effect of two cultivars of rice, low glutelin content (LGC)‐1 and LGC‐Jun, on reducing serum cholesterol in exogenously hypercholesterolemic (ExHC) rats. LGC‐1 is enriched in α‐globulin (10.6 mg g−1 rice flour, which is an approximately 1.5 times higher α‐globulin content than in Koshihikari a predominant rice cultivar in Japan), whereas LGC‐Jun is a globulin‐negative cultivar.

METHODS

ExHC rats, the model strain of diet‐induced hypercholesterolemia, were fed 50% LGC‐1 or LGC‐Jun and 0.5% cholesterol‐containing diets for 2 weeks, followed by measurement of cholesterol metabolism parameters in serum and tissues.

RESULTS

Serum cholesterol and non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly lower in the LGC‐1 group compared to the LGC‐Jun group. Cholesterol intestinal absorption markers, hepatic and serum levels of campesterol and β‐sitosterol, and lymphatic cholesterol transport were not different between the two groups. Levels of 7α‐hydroxycholesterol, an intermediate of bile acid synthesis, showed a downward trend in the livers of rats that were fed LGC‐1 (P = 0.098). There was a significant decrease in the hepatic mRNA expression of Cyp7a1 (a synthetic enzyme for 7α‐hydroxycholesterol) in the LGC‐1 group compared to the LGC‐Jun group.

CONCLUSION

Dietary LGC‐1 significantly decreased serum cholesterol levels in ExHC rats. The possible mechanism for the cholesterol‐lowering activity of LGC‐1 is partial inhibition of bile acid and cholesterol synthesis in the liver. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography for the differential diagnosis of pleomorphic adenomas and Warthin tumors in salivary glands
Authors: Saito Daisuke , Shiga Kiyoto , Katagiri Katsunori , Oikawa Shin‐ichi , Ikeda Aya , Tsuchida Kodai , Miyaguchi Jun , Kusaka Takahiro , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Takahashi Fumiaki
Published: May 2021

Objective

Pleomorphic adenomas have risks of malignant transformation and post operate recurrence. Therefor it is important that diagnosing pleomorphic adenomas or Warthin tumors before an operation. We evaluated the usefulness of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) with Sonazoid for making differential diagnoses between pleomorphic adenomas and Warthin tumors.

Methods

CEUS was performed the day before surgery in 39 patients. We compared the time‐intensity curve and capillary density rate of 14 pleomorphic adenomas and 13 Warthin tumors.

Results

Pleomorphic adenomas demonstrated a significantly longer time to peak intensity and lower maximum curve gradient of wash‐in than Warthin tumors. The capillary density rate of Warthin tumors tended to be greater than that of pleomorphic adenomas.

Conclusions

CEUS and capillary density rate analysis using Sonazoid is helpful for the differential diagnosis of pleomorphic adenomas and Warthin tumors.

Level of Evidence

3b.
The effect of nitrate on the corrosion behavior of 7075‐T651 aluminum alloy in the acidic NaCl solution
Authors: Liu Xiaohang , Li Yizhou , Lei Li , Wang Xin
Published: May 2021

The effect of nitrate on the corrosion behavior of 7075‐T651 aluminum alloy in an acidic NaCl solution is investigated by electrochemical investigation and morphology characterization. Localized corrosion initiated from intermetallic particles could be observed in the solution with and without NaNO3. The nitrate plays a controversial role in the corrosion of 7075‐T651 aluminum alloy. It could enhance the performance of passive film and reduce the probability of pitting corrosion initiation. However, the pitting corrosion would be promoted by nitrate, once stable pitting corrosion is initiated.
Reactive molecular dynamics study of the oxidation behavior of iron‐based alloy in supercritical water
Authors: Xu Hong , Qi Jing
Published: May 2021

A theoretical study of the oxidation behavior of iron‐based alloy in the supercritical water (SCW) has been carried out based on ReaxFF force‐field molecular dynamics simulation. An atomic model has been proposed to simulate the initial chemisorption reactions and atoms diffusion behavior across the oxide layer. Simulation results imply that Cr addition has an important effect on the oxidation behavior of iron‐based alloy. In the initial stage of oxidation, H2O prefers to adsorb on the Cr atom, and some species in the form of Cr(OH)4 are observed on the FeCr alloy surface. Once an initial oxide layer is formed, further oxidation is controlled by the migration of vacancy. The O vacancies are formed at the oxide/FeCr alloy interface and migrate toward the steam, whereas Fe vacancies are formed at the oxide/steam interface and migrate toward the FeCr alloy. Attributed to the stronger binding energy of O–Cr bond than O–Fe bond, the Cr diffusivity in the oxide is less than Fe atoms. Thus, double oxide layers, including the inner Fe–Cr–O layer and outer Fe–O layer, are formed on the FeCr alloy, which is in good agreement with previous experimental observation.
Pressure Response through Valve for Continuous Oil‐Water Separation Based on a Flexible Superhydrophobic/Superoleophilic Thermoplastic Vulcanizate Film
Authors: Zhang Xingshuo , Feng Ruotao , Wang Junhao , Wang Wenqi , Hua Jing , Wang Zhaobo
Published: May 2021

Highly efficient oil‐water separation shows urgent demand in industrial applications, especially in oil‐spill accidents and organic solvent separation. Herein, a novel method is proposed for continuous oil‐water separation by a pressure response through valve, which is loaded in a flexible convolute superhydrophobic/superoleophilic film based on low‐density polyethylene (LDPE)/ethylene‐propylene‐diene terpolymer (EPDM) thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). The superhydrophobic/superoleophilic LDPE/EPDM TPV film (with contact angles of oil and water are 0° and 161.9°± 2.2°) is prepared only via a molding process where sandpaper is used as the template. The superhydrophobic/superoleophilic property of the TPV film shows robust performance in the activity endurance test. More importantly, the flexible LDPE/EPDM TPV film can be easily rolled up and loaded in through valve, which is the pressure response channel in oil‐water separation. The typical separation pressure of oil and water is 3.01 and 6.17 kPa, which means the oil can be completely separated from the oil‐water mixture under proper pressure in the pressure response through valve.
Neurophysiological Correlates of Trait Impulsivity in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Ricciardi Lucia , Fischer Petra , Mostofi Abteen , Tinkhauser Gerd , Torrecillos Flavie , Baig Fahd , Edwards Mark J. , Pereira Erlick A.C. , Morgante Francesca , Brown Peter
Published: May 2021

Background

Impulsivity is common in people with Parkinson's disease (PD), with many developing impulsive compulsive behavior disorders (ICB). Its pathophysiological basis remains unclear.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate local field potential (LFP) markers of trait impulsivity in PD and their relationship to ICB.

Methods

We recorded subthalamic nucleus (STN) LFPs in 23 PD patients undergoing deep brain stimulation implantation. Presence and severity of ICB were assessed by clinical interview and the Questionnaire for Impulsive‐Compulsive Disorders in PD‐Rating Scale (QUIP‐RS), whereas trait impulsivity was estimated with the Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS‐11). Recordings were obtained during the off dopaminergic states and the power spectrum of the subthalamic activity was analyzed using Fourier transform‐based techniques. Assessment of each electrode contact localization was done to determine the topography of the oscillatory activity recorded.

Results

Patients with (n = 6) and without (n = 17) ICB had similar LFP spectra. A multiple regression model including QUIP‐RS, BIS‐11, and Unified PD Rating Scale‐III scores as regressors showed a significant positive correlation between 8–13 Hz power and BIS‐11 score. The correlation was mainly driven by the motor factor of the BIS‐11, and was irrespective of the presence or absence of active ICB. Electrode contact pairs with the highest α power, which also correlated most strongly with BIS‐11, tended to be more ventral than contact pairs with the highest beta power, which localize to the dorsolateral motor STN.

Conclusions

Our data suggest a link between α power and trait impulsivity in PD, irrespective of the presence and severity of ICB. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Physics‐based iterative reconstruction for dual‐source and flying focal spot computed tomography
Authors: Wang Xiao , MacDougall Robert D. , Chen Peng , Bouman Charles A. , Warfield Simon K.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

For single‐source helical Computed Tomography (CT), both Filtered‐Back Projection (FBP) and statistical iterative reconstruction have been investigated. However, for dual‐source CT with flying focal spot (DS‐FFS CT), a statistical iterative reconstruction that accurately models the scanner geometry and acquisition physics remains unknown to researchers. Therefore, our purpose is to present a novel physics‐based iterative reconstruction method for DS‐FFS CT and assess its image quality.

Methods

Our algorithm uses precise physics models to reconstruct from the native cone‐beam geometry and interleaved dual‐source helical trajectory of a DS‐FFS CT. To do so, we construct a noise physics model to represent data acquisition noise and a prior image model to represent image noise and texture. In addition, we design forward system models to compute the locations of deflected focal spots, the dimension, and sensitivity of voxels and detector units, as well as the length of intersection between x‐rays and voxels. The forward system models further represent the coordinated movement between the dual sources by computing their x‐ray coverage gaps and overlaps at an arbitrary helical pitch. With the above models, we reconstruct images by an advanced Consensus Equilibrium (CE) numerical method to compute the maximum a posteriori estimate to a joint optimization problem that simultaneously fits all models.

Results

We compared our reconstruction with Siemens ADMIRE, which is the clinical standard hybrid iterative reconstruction (IR) method for DS‐FFS CT, in terms of spatial resolution, noise profile, and image artifacts through both phantoms and clinical scan datasets. Experiments show that our reconstruction has a higher spatial resolution, with a Task‐Based Modulation Transfer Function (MTFtask) consistently higher than the clinical standard hybrid IR. In addition, our reconstruction shows a reduced magnitude of image undersampling artifacts than the clinical standard.

Conclusions

By modeling a precise geometry and avoiding data rebinning or interpolation, our physics‐based reconstruction achieves a higher spatial resolution and fewer image artifacts with smaller magnitude than the clinical standard hybrid IR.
Characterization of Spatial and Temporal Variability of Crassostrea spp. Spat Settlement to Ascertain Allocable Sites for Spat Collection at Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Minhaz Tashrif Mahmud , Sarker Joyshri , Khan Mohammed Nurul Absar , Khatoon Helena , Alim Md Abdul , Khalequzzaman SM , Ahmad Moin Uddin , Rahman Mohammad Redwanur
Published: May 2021

Spat settlement (spat density, recruitment, and mortality) of edible oysters Crassostrea spp. was estimated for three sites (Nunia Chara [NC], Chowfoldandy [CD], and Sonadia Island [SI]) located along the Cox’s Bazar coast of Bangladesh from February 2019 to January 2020 by deploying shellstrings. Field observations were made every 15 d to understand the monthly variation of oyster spat settlement more precisely. Environmental variables varied significantly with the study site × month interaction or across study sites and months. Gonadal maturation and spawning of oysters may depend on certain environmental conditions, which were greatly influenced by seasonality, especially the monsoon. Spat density, recruitment, and mortality rates were significantly different with the study site × month interaction. The NC site offered higher spat density and recruitment than CD and SI during most months; spat density was lower due to increased mortality during the monsoon (late May to mid-October) at all sites. Spat density was positively related to salinity, pH, and total suspended solids but negatively related to temperature and high- and low-tide water depths. Recruitment was positively related to salinity and negatively related to low-tide water depth. Spat mortality was positively related to high-tide water depth but negatively related to low-tide water depth. Eight different groups of fouling organisms were observed during the study, which could affect spat settlement. Most interestingly, oyster drills at NC and SI and marine macrophytes and bushlike organisms at CD and SI could contribute to increased mortality during the monsoon. This study showed that none of the three sites would be potential locations for spat collection on shellstrings during the monsoon; however, if avoiding the monsoon, NC has a higher potentiality of allocation for spat collection both for commercial farming and oyster restoration efforts.
Total Neoadjuvant Therapy (TNT) versus Standard Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Shuang , Jiang Ting , Xiao Lin , Yang Shanfei , Liu Qing , Gao Yuanhong , Chen Gong , Xiao Weiwei
Published: May 2021

Background

Total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) is a novel approach for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), which attempts to deliver both systemic chemotherapy and neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy prior to surgery. However, its efficacy and safety remain controversial in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We conducted this meta-analysis to assess such concerns.

Materials and Methods

Head-to-head phase II/III RCTs were searched in Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, as well as other sources. The primary endpoint was pathologic complete response (pCR). Secondary endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), local recurrence-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, and the R0 resection rate.

Results

Eight phase II/III RCTs involving 2,196 patients with LARC were assessed. The primary analysis demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the pCR rate for TNT treatment (odds ratio, 1.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28–2.45; p = .0005). TNT treatment also showed improvements in DFS and OS outcomes compared with standard chemoradiotherapy (hazard ratio [HR], 0.83; 95% CI, 0.72–0.96; p = .03 and HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.74–1.05; p = .15). In addition, TNT treatment showed significant efficacy in reducing the risk of distant metastasis (HR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.68–0.95; p = .012).

Conclusion

The overall pCR rate may be improved with TNT compared with standard treatment. The TNT strategy may also improve DFS and OS and reduce the risk of distant metastasis.

Implications for Practice

Locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is a relatively common disease, with a poor prognosis because of its high metastatic potential. The role of total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) has always been controversial. This meta-analysis found that TNT in LARC is associated with a significant improvement in overall pathologic complete response rate, disease-free survival, overall survival, and distant metastasis-free survival compared with standard treatment. TNT is a promising strategy for LARC, especially for patients who have little desire for surgery.
Review of electrospun hydrogel nanofiber system: Synthesis, Properties and Applications
Authors: Ghosh Tanushree , Das Trisha , Purwar Roli
Published: May 2021

Hydrogel‐based nanofibers or vice versa are a relatively new class of nanomaterials, in which hydrogels are structured in nanofibrous form. Structure and size of the material directly governs its functionality, therefore, in hydrogel science, the nanofibrous form of hydrogels enables its usage in targeted applications. Hydrogel nanofiber system combines the desirable properties of both hydrogel and nanofiber like flexibility, soft consistency, elasticity, and biocompatibility due to high water content, large surface area to volume ratio, low density, small pore size and interconnected pores, high stiffness, tensile strength, and surface functionality. Swelling behavior is a critical property of hydrogels that is significantly increased in hydrogel nanofibers due to their small size. Electrospinning is the most popular method to fabricate “hydrogel nanofibers,” while other processes like self‐assembly, solution blowing and template synthesis also exist. Merging the characteristics of both hydrogels and nanofibers in one system allows applications in drug delivery, tissue engineering, actuation, wound dressing, photoluminescence, light‐addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS), waterproof breathable membranes, and enzymatic immobilization. Treatment of wastewater, detection, and adsorption of metal ions are also emerging applications. In this review paper, we intend to summarize in detail about electrospun “hydrogel nanofiber” in relation to its synthesis, properties, and applications.
Cover Image, Volume 70, Issue 6
Authors: Strutton Jared W , Knott Matthew , Bencomo Jose A , Iacono Scott T , Mates Joseph E , Alston Jeffrey R , McCollum Jena M
Published: May 2021

The cover image is based on the Research Article Manipulating polymer decomposition to alter burn performance in aluminium/poly(vinylidene fluoride) filaments by Jared W. Strutton et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/pi.6129.

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The relationships between fear of cancer recurrence, spiritual well‐being and psychological resilience in non‐metastatic breast cancer survivors during the COVID‐19 outbreak
Authors: Koral Lokman , Cirak Yalcin
Published: May 2021

Objectives

This study examines the relationships between fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), spiritual well‐being (SWB) and psychological resilience in breast cancer survivors during the COVID‐19 outbreak, and investigates to what extent breast cancer survivors’ sociodemographic characteristics affect FCR, SWB and psychological resilience levels.

Methods

The study was conducted at Canakkale University Hospital in Turkey. Included in the study were 82 non‐metastatic breast cancer patients whose clinical outcomes were followed‐up after primary treatment, but suspended due to the COVID‐19 outbreak. FCR, SWB and psychological resilience were assessed using the FCR inventory‐short form (FCRI‐SF), SWB scale and the brief resilience scale (BRS), respectively.

Results

The mean scores of breast cancer survivors concerning FCR, SWB, and psychological resilience were 17.77 ± 5.38, 36.20 ± 6.21 and 20.01 ± 4.51, respectively. A significant negative correlation was noted between the scores of FCR and SWB and psychological resilience (r = −0.329, p < 0.001 and r = −0.316, p = 0.004, respectively). Additionally, a significantly positive correlation was identified between psychological resilience and SWB (r = 0.501, p = 0.003). A hierarchical linear regression analysis with FCRI‐SF as the dependent variable, and SWB and BRS as explanatory variables, indicated that SWB affects FCRI‐SF scores and is a potential predictor of FCR. A mediation analysis revealed that SWB partially mediated the relationship between psychological resilience and FCR.

Conclusion

Breast cancer survivors with high SWB and psychological resilience scores experience less FCR, despite their failure to maintain the medical follow‐up due to the COVID‐19 outbreak. Efforts should be made to increase the psychological resilience and SWB of patients diagnosed with breast cancer.
Sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension in neonates: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: He Zonglin , Zhu Sui , Zhou Kai , Jin Ya , He Longkai , Xu Weipeng , Lao CheokUn , Liu Guosheng , Han Shasha
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To provide an updated review and meta‐analysis on the efficacy and safety of sildenafil for treating persistent pulmonary hypertension in neonates (PPHN).

Methods

PubMed/Medline, SCOPUS, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science were searched from the inception of publication to January 2021. The principal outcomes include oxygenation parameters, hemodynamic metrics and echocardiographic measurements, as well as adverse outcomes.

Results

A total of eight studies were included with 216 term and premature neonates with PPHN. Compelling evidence showed the use of sildenafil could improve the prognosis of PPHN neonates, compared with baseline or placebo in neonates with PPHN, and a time‐dependent pattern of the improvements can be observed. After 24 h of treatment, the Oxygenation index suggested a steady decrease (SD: −1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −2.92, −0.67) and sildenafil exerted peak effects after 72 h of treatment (SD: −4.02, 95% CI: −5.45, −2.59). No clinically significant side effects were identified. Egger's test and funnel plots of the major outcomes were performed, and the publication bias was not significant.

Conclusion

Improvements were shown in oxygenation index, pulmonary arterial pressure, and adverse outcomes after using sildenafil for PPHN in neonates. However, future research with robust longitudinal or randomized controlled design is still needed.