bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the effects of raw and cooked adzuki bean on glucose/lipid metabolism and liver function in diabetic mice
Authors: Zhao Qingyu , Hou Dianzhi , Laraib Yousaf , Xue Yong , Shen Qun
Published: May 2021

Background and objectives

Diabetes is a serious metabolic disease. The present study investigated the ability of diets supplemented with raw and cooked adzuki bean to mitigate the effects of diabetes and related metabolic disorders in type 2 diabetic mice induced by a high‐fat diet combined with streptozotocin (STZ).

Findings

Compared with untreated diabetic mice, raw adzuki bean (RAB) supplementation significantly reduced food intake, glycated serum protein (GSP), and fasting blood glucose (FBG) and improved glucose tolerance. Cooked adzuki bean (CAB) supplementation cannot effectively improve FBG, but significantly reduce weight loss and GSP. In addition, adzuki bean supplementation significantly reduced low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and total cholesterol (TC) levels. Histological observations confirmed the ability of adzuki bean supplementation to prevent pancreatic and liver damage. The content of total flavonoids and catechins in adzuki bean decreased significantly after processing.

Conclusions

Although RAB and CAB supplementation showed many beneficial impacts on type 2 diabetic mice, the lower efficacy of CAB is likely caused by a loss of bioactive substances from processing.

Significance and novelty

These findings may contribute to a better understanding of the benefits of adzuki bean as a dietary supplement to prevent type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and related metabolic disorders.
Bis(4‐benzhydryl‐benzoxazol‐2‐yl)methane – from a Bulky NacNac Alternative to a Trianion in Alkali Metal Complexes
Authors: Kretsch Johannes , Kreyenschmidt Anne‐Kathrin , Schillmöller Timo , Lõkov Märt , Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Leito Ivo , Stalke Dietmar
Published: May 2021

A novel sterically demanding bis(4‐benzhydryl‐benzoxazol‐2‐yl)methane ligand 6 (4−BzhH2BoxCH2) was gained in a straightforward six‐step synthesis. Starting from this ligand monomeric [M(4‐BzhH2BoxCH)] (M=Na (7), K (81)) and dimeric [{M(4‐BzhH2BoxCH)}2] (M=K (82), Rb (9), Cs (10)) alkali metal complexes were synthesised by deprotonation. Abstraction of the potassium ion of 8 by reaction with 18‐crown‐6 resulted in the solvent separated ion pair [{(THF)2K@(18‐crown‐6)}{bis(4‐benzhydryl‐benzoxazol‐2‐yl)methanide}] (11), including the energetically favoured monoanionic (E,E)‐(4‐BzhH2BoxCH) ligand. Further reaction of 4−BzhH2BoxCH2 with three equivalents KH and two equivalents 18‐crown‐6 yielded polymeric [{(THF)2K@(18‐crown‐6)}{K@(18‐crown‐6)K(4‐BzhBoxCH)}]n (n→∞) (12) containing a trianionic ligand. The neutral ligand and herein reported alkali complexes were characterised by single X‐ray analyses identifying the latter as a promising precursor for low‐valent main group complexes.
Association between the platelet‐lymphocyte ratio and short‐term mortality in patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Meng Zhongyuan , Yang Jiaqiang , Wu Jianfu , Zheng Xifeng , Zhao Yaxin , He Yan
Published: May 2021

Background

Previous studies have shown that inflammation plays an important role in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) has been reported as a novel inflammatory marker. However, it is not clear whether PLR is associated with short‐term all‐cause mortality in critically ill patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Methods

The data for the study is from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III database. The primary outcome in our study was 28‐day mortality. Kapan‐Meier curve, lowess smoother curve, and multivariate Cox regression models were used to determine whether the association between PLR and 28‐day mortality of critically ill patients with NSTEMI.

Results

A total of 1273 critically ill patients with NSTEMI were included in this analysis. Kapan‐Meier curve and lowess smoother curve show that high PLR is associated with an increased risk of 28‐day all‐cause mortality. The study population is divided into two groups according to the cut‐off value of PLR level. In the Cox model, high PLR levels (PLR≥195.8) were significantly associated with increased 28‐day mortality (HR 1.54; 95%CI 1.09–2.18, p = .013). In quartile analyses, the HR (95% CI) for the third (183 ≤ PLR < 306) and fourth quartile (PLR≥306) was 1.55 (1.05–2.29) and 1.61 (1.03–2.52), respectively, compared to the reference group(111 ≤ PLR < 183). In subgroup analyses, there is no interaction effect in most of the subgroups except for respiratory failure and vasopressor use.

Conclusion

High PLR is associated with an increased risk of short‐term mortality in critically ill patients with NSTEMI.
Assembly and Application of a Low Budget Photoreactor**
Authors: Wallner Olov , Mamonov Kirill , Ortis Florian , Michel Dana , Michel Maurice
Published: May 2021

Photochemistry is a fast growing research field and many transformations previously not accessible to chemists now have become part of an ever growing standard repertoire. The limiting factors for a photoreactor system however are the possibility to perform stirring, removal of excess heat and the irradiation with UV or visible light – all that within a secure surrounding. Systems for starters may be as expensive as several thousand Euro. Here we design and assemble a LED photoreactor using scrap and standard materials, spending less than 30 € for a LED. The system may be adjusted to any required wavelength and its assembly is shown for the use of a 400 nm LED. To demonstrate its application, we then exemplarily use the reactor in the removal of a photolabile protection group during the synthesis of a SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein glycopeptide.
Lantern‐Type Divanadium Complexes with Bridging Ligands: Short Metal−Metal Bonds with High Multiple Bond Orders
Authors: Langstieh Derek R. , Lyngdoh Richard H. Duncan , King R. Bruce , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: May 2021

Vanadium forms binuclear complexes with a variety of ligands often containing V≡V triple bonds. Many tetragonal divanadium paddlewheel complexes with bridging bidentate ligands have been experimentally characterized. This research exhaustively treats model tetragonal, trigonal, and digonal paddlewheel‐type divanadium complexes V2Lx (L=formamidinate, guanidinate, and carboxylate; x=2, 3, 4), each in the three lowest‐energy spin states. The V−V formal bond orders are obtained from metal−metal MO diagrams for representative structures. A number of short V−V multiple bonds of order 3, 3.5, and 4 are found in these model complexes. The short V≡V triple bonds and singlet ground state predicted here for the model tetragonal complexes correspond well with the limited experimental results for the series of known tetragonal paddlewheels. Digonal divanadium lanterns with very short V−V quadruple bonds are predicted as interesting synthetic targets. The V−V bond distances are categorized into distinct ranges according to the formal bond order values from 0.5 to 4. These bond length ranges are compared with the ranges compiled for other divanadium complexes including carbonyl complexes.
No evidence for female kin association, indications for extragroup paternity, and sex‐biased dispersal patterns in wild western gorillas
Authors: Masi Shelly , Austerlitz Frédéric , Chabaud Chloé , Lafosse Sophie , Marchi Nina , Georges Myriam , Dessarps‐Freichey Françoise , Miglietta Silvia , Sotto‐Mayor Andrea , Galli Aurore San , Meulman Ellen , Pouydebat Emmanuelle , Krief Sabrina , Todd Angelique , Fuh Terence , Breuer Thomas , Ségurel Laure
Published: May 2021

Characterizing animal dispersal patterns and the rational behind individuals’ transfer choices is a long‐standing question of interest in evolutionary biology. In wild western gorillas (Gorilla gorilla), a one‐male polygynous species, previous genetic findings suggested that, when dispersing, females might favor groups with female kin to promote cooperation, resulting in higher‐than‐expected within‐group female relatedness. The extent of male dispersal remains unclear with studies showing conflicting results. To investigate male and female dispersal patterns and extragroup paternity, we analyzed long‐term field observations, including female spatial proximity data, together with genetic data (10 autosomal microsatellites) on individuals from a unique set of four habituated western gorilla groups, and four additional extragroup males (49 individuals in total). The majority of offspring (25 of 27) were sired by the group male. For two offspring, evidence for extragroup paternity was found. Contrarily to previous findings, adult females were not significantly more related within groups than across groups. Consistently, adult female relatedness within groups did not correlate with their spatial proximity inferred from behavioral data. Adult females were similarly related to adult males from their group than from other groups. Using RST statistics, we found significant genetic structure and a pattern of isolation by distance, indicating limited dispersal in this species. Comparing relatedness among females and among males revealed that males disperse farer than females, as expected in a polygamous species. Our study on habituated western gorillas shed light on the dispersal dynamics and reproductive behavior of this polygynous species and challenge some of the previous results based on unhabituated groups.
Ecosystem water use efficiency response to drought over southwest China
Authors: Mokhtar Ali , He Hongming , Alsafadi Karam , Mohammed Safwan , He Wenming , Li Yu , Zhao Hongfei , Abdullahi Nazir Muhammad , Gyasi‐Agyei Yeboah
Published: May 2021

Drought is showing an increasing trend as a result of the significant variation in precipitation and temperature in China. This study investigated the impacts of drought on ecosystem water use efficiency (WUE) in southwest China. The spatiotemporal distribution of drought and ecosystem WUE were analysed through integrated approaches based on observed climate and satellite remote sensing datasets to understand the response of ecosystem WUE to drought. Also, the impacts of climatic variables on gross primary productivity (GPP), evapotranspiration (ET) and WUE have been discussed. More than 30% of the total area can be categorized as suffering moderate drought. Six drought events (autumn 2006, autumn 2009, winter 2010, summer 2011, autumn 2011 and winter 2013) were identified during the period of 2001–2016. The average monthly WUE was 2.37 gC/kgH2O, showing a decreasing trend under the combined effects of drought and other environmental factors. Autumn 2006 exhibited the highest significant positive effect of drought on WUE on more than 80% of the total area that concentrated in the forest, shrubland, savanna and agriculture ecosystems. The results of this study have implications for ecosystem management and climate policy making that could allow implementing feasible water use strategies under a warming climate.
Biomimetic Oxidative Bromination by cis‐Dioxidotungsten(VI) Complexes of Salan Type N,N’‐Capped Linear Tetradentate Amino Bisphenol
Authors: Maurya Mannar R. , Maurya Shailendra K. , Kumar Naveen , Gupta Puneet
Published: May 2021

Reaction of [WVIO2(acac)2] (Hacac=acetylacetone) with salan‐type dibasic tetradentate ONNO donor Mannich bases derived from ethylenediamine, formaldehyde and 2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenol (H2L1), 2‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methylphenol (H2L2), 2,4‐dimethylphenol (H2L3) and 2,4‐dichlorophenol (H2L4) in a 1 : 1 ([WVIO2(acac)2] : H2L) molar ratio in refluxing MeOH gave the corresponding cis‐dioxidotungsten(VI) complexes [WVIO2L1] (1), [WVIO2L2] (2), [WVIO2L3] (3) and [WVIO2L4] (4), respectively. Characterization by elemental analysis, various spectroscopic (FT‐IR, UV‐vis, 1H and 13C NMR) studies, DFT calculations and single‐crystal X‐ray analysis of 2 and 3 suggest six‐coordinated octahedral α‐cis (symmetric) isomeric form of the complexes where ligands coordinate through the two phenolate oxygen and two amine nitrogen atoms (in a cis‐α type symmetric binding mode) with one of the N atoms of the ligand and one of the terminal O atoms of the cis‐WO2 group in the axial position. These complexes are potential catalyst precursors for the oxidative bromination of thymol and styrene. Thymol upon bromination gave three products, namely, 2‐bromothymol, 4‐bromothymol, and 2,4‐dibromothymol; later one being the major product. Oxidative bromination of styrene resulted in 2‐bromo‐1‐phenylethanol and 1‐phenylethane‐1,2‐diol; the later one is the result of nucleophilic attack of water on the α as well as β carbons both of the initially formed 1,2‐dibromo‐1‐phenylethane.
Nitrogen/potassium interactions increase rice yield by improving canopy performance
Authors: Ye Tinghong , Zhang Jianglin , Li Jing , Lu Jianwei , Ren Tao , Cong Rihuan , Lu Zhifeng , Li Xiaokun
Published: May 2021

The interactions between nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) are important determinants of rice yield, but the mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. For example, N/K interactions may influence light utilization and N distribution in the canopy. Field experiments were therefore performed to resolve this issue, using factorial combination of N and K. The interaction between N and K had a significant effect on the grain yield, N uptake, and the NUE of grain production (NUEg), and biomass production (NUEb). The application of either N or K alone resulted in lower yields than the combined application of these nutrients. The combined application of N and K increased rice yields by 54.5% in 2018 and by 76.1% in 2019, compared with N0K0. Similarly, N uptake, NUEg, and NUEb were higher when N was supplied with K than with N application alone. The higher grain yields, N uptake rates, and NUEs observed with the combined N and K treatment were attributed to the following: (1) a higher leaf area index that resulted in better light interception; (2) improved the coordination of light and N distribution within the canopy. Evidence for improved light use by photosynthesis is provided by the observed lower light extinction coefficient (KL), the higher specific leaf N in the top leaves (SLNo), higher extinction coefficients for effective leaf N (KN) and KN/KL values. We conclude that the interactions between N and K support higher yields by improving canopy performance even at lower N rates.
SENP1 participates in Irinotecan resistance in human colon cancer cells
Authors: Chen Ming‐Cheng , Nhan Do Chi , Hsu Chiung‐Hung , Wang Tso‐Fu , Li Chi‐Cheng , Ho Tsung‐Jung , Mahalakshmi B. , Chen Mei‐Chih , Yang Liang‐Yo , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: May 2021

Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in the world. Chemoresistance has always been a problem encountered in its treatment. It is known that SUMOylation may regulate protein stability and decomposition, and even affect the protein translocation and posttranslational modification in cells. Sentrin‐specific protease 1 (SENP1) is involved in the maturation of SUMO protein, and on the other hand, plays a role in deSUMOylation, which dissociates the target protein from SUMO and prevents further degradation of the target protein. In this study, we established an Irinotecan (CPT‐11) resistant human colon cancer LoVo strain (LoVoR‐CPT‐11) to investigate the role of SENP1 in the development of drug resistance in colorectal cancer. The abundant accumulation of SENP1 and HIF‐1α proteins and the increase of SUMO pathway enzymes were observed in LoVoR‐CPT‐11 cells while the protein markers of proliferation, angiogenesis, and glycolysis were upregulated. Knockdown of SENP1 reduced the migration ability and trigged re‐sensitivity of LoVoR‐CPT‐11 cells to CPT‐11 treatment. The analysis of SENP1 and HIF‐1α gene expressions from TCGA/GTEx datasets using the GEPIA web server showed a positive correlation between SENP1 and HIF‐1α in colorectal cancer patients and the high expression of these two genes might predict a poor outcome clinically. In conclusion, SENP1 might play an important role in CPT‐11 resistance in colorectal cancer. Targeting SENP1 to reduce the resistant property could be considered in prospective clinical studies.
Low doses of methylnaltrexone inhibits head and neck squamous cell carcinoma growth in vitro and in vivo by acting on the mu‐opioid receptor
Authors: Gorur Aysegul , Patiño Miguel , Shi Ted , Corrales German , Takahashi Hideaki , Rangel Roberto , Gleber‐Netto Frederico O. , Pickering Curtis , Myers Jeffrey N. , Cata Juan P.
Published: May 2021

The Mu‐opioid receptor (MOR) has been implicated in tumorigenesis and metastasis. Methylnaltrexone (MNTX), an antagonist of MOR, has shown to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in lung cancer cell lines. The effect of MNTX on other cell lines such as head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has not been investigated. We measured the expression and activity of the receptor in different HNSCC cell lines. Then, we evaluated the impact of modulating the expression MOR and the effect of MNTX on the proliferation, clonogenic activity, invasion, and migration of two HNSCC (FaDu and MDA686Tu) cell lines expressing MOR and one cell line (UMSCC47) not expressing the receptor. We also evaluated the impact of MNTX on tumor growth and metastasis formation in vivo. Activation of the receptor with [d‐Ala2,N‐Me‐Phe4, Gly5‐ol] (DAMGO) caused a significant reduction in cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels in FaDu cells. Knockdown of MOR inhibited in vitro aggressive cell behaviors on FaDu and MDA686Tu cells and correlated with a reduction in markers of epithelial–mesenchymal transition. In vitro studies showed that MNTX strongly inhibited the proliferation, clonogenic activity, invasion, and migration of FaDu and MDA686Tu cells but has no effect on UMSCC47 cells. In vivo experiments demonstrated that MNTX suppresses tumor growth in HNSCC cell tumor‐bearing mice. Our studies indicate that MOR could be considered as a therapeutic target to treat HNSCC.
Population‐level impact of native arthropod predators on the poultry red mite Dermanyssus gallinae
Authors: Zriki Ghais , Blatrix Rumsais , Bicout Dominique J. , Gimenez Olivier , Soulié Anne‐Sophie , Dadu Liza , Degueldre David , Chiron Geoffrey , Sleeckx Nathalie , Roy Lise
Published: May 2021

Stimulating the regulation of pests by their natural enemies is a way to improve the sustainability of agriculture and respect for the environment. However, the presence of natural enemies does not guarantee the existence of a pest control service. To what extent are predatory mites commonly found in henhouses actually able to regulate a major egg industry pest mite, Dermanyssus gallinae? To answer this question, we have experimentally recreated portions of a poultry house ecosystem allowing the development of the pest over several generations in the presence of a chick and detritivorous mites (Astigmata) that are ubiquitous and abundant in layer farms. In these conditions, we compared the growth of D. gallinae populations in the presence and absence of native predatory arthropods. No effect of native predators on the growth of the D. gallinae population could be detected despite high initial predator‐to‐prey ratios and satisfactory growth of predator populations. Prey switching to the alternative prey Astigmata likely dilutes the effect of predation on the target prey. Further exploration is needed to see whether action could be taken to enhance the effect of top‐down regulation.
Holocene environmental history of a freshwater wetland in southern Louisiana: a sedimentary record of delta development, coastal evolution and human activity
Authors: Ryu Junghyung , Liu Kam‐Biu , Bianchette Thomas A.
Published: May 2021

The world's most extensive and active deltas, Louisiana's wetlands, are deteriorating rapidly due to multiple stressors. Their ecological and anthropogenic histories on a multimillennial timescale have not been thoroughly documented. This study investigates hydrological and anthropogenic impacts on southern Louisiana wetlands to guide future efforts toward environmental restoration. A 3.6 m sediment core (JOYWMA) extracted from a freshwater wetland adjacent to Lake Pontchartrain yielded a 5000‐year record. Multiproxy data indicate four distinct stages, with the earliest period representing an oyster reef (~4.5 cal yr bp) marked by elevated Ca and Sr concentrations. Evolution to a freshwater marsh occurred 4.5–4.0 cal yr bp during the St. Bernard delta progradation, marked by increased Zr and Br concentrations. The site transitioned to a lake due to the isolation from the St. Bernard delta and local subsidence (4.0–2.0 cal yr bp), marked by increased Ti, Fe, Mn and K concentrations. The site altered to a cypress swamp after 2.0 cal yr bp due to increased sediment supply during the St. Bernard subdelta progradation. Both natural (delta progradation and subsidence) and anthropogenic (fire, deforestation) stressors have impacted the site over the last 4500 years. Delta‐switching of the Mississippi River caused the significant geomorphological and ecological changes.
Improved Nerve Visualization in Head and Neck Surgery Using Mueller Polarimetric Imaging: Preclinical Feasibility Study in a Swine Model
Authors: Ning Bo , Kim Wan Wook , Katz Itai , Park Chung Hyuk , Sandler Anthony D. , Cha Jaepyeong
Published: May 2021

Background and Objectives

Meticulous dissection and identification of nerves during head and neck surgery are crucial for preventing nerve damage. At present, nerve identification relies heavily on the surgeon's knowledge of anatomy, optionally combined with intraoperative neuromonitoring. Recently, optical techniques such as Mueller polarimetric imaging (MPI) have shown potential to improve nerve identification.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

With institutional approval, seven 25–35 kg Yorkshire pigs underwent cervical incision in the central neck. Intraoperative images were obtained using our in‐house MPI system. Birefringence maps from the MPI system were processed to quantify the values between 0 and 255 from different tissue types; an active contour model was applied to further improve nerve visualization on the corresponding color images.

Results

Among the seven pigs, the vagus nerves and recurrent laryngeal nerves were successfully differentiated with a mean intensity of 130.954 ± 20.611, which was significantly different (P < 0.05) from those of arteries (78.512 ± 27.78) and other surrounding tissues (82.583 ± 35.547). There were no imaging‐related complications during the procedure. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Conclusions

MPI is a potentially complementary intraoperative tool for nerve identification in adjacent tissues.
On Fourier–Bessel matrix transforms and applications
Authors: Abdalla Mohamed , Boulaaras Salah , Akel Mohamed
Published: May 2021

The Fourier–Bessel transform is an integral transform and is also known as the Hankel transform. This transform is a very important tool in solving many problems in mathematical sciences, physics, and engineering. Very recently, Abdalla (AIMS Mathematics 6: [2021], 6122–6139) introduced certain Hankel integral transforms associated with functions involving generalized Bessel matrix polynomials and various applications. Motivated by this work, we introduce the Fourier–Bessel matrix transform (FBMT) containing Bessel matrix function of the first kind as a kernel. The corresponding inversion formula and several illustrative examples of this transform have been presented. A relation between the Laplace transform and the FBMT has been obtained. Furthermore, a convolution of the FBMT is constructed with some properties. In addition, some applications are proposed in the present research. Finally, we outlined the significant links for the preceding outcomes of some particular cases with our results.
Singularities of bicomplex holomorphic functions
Authors: Luna‐Elizarrarás M. Elena , Perez‐Regalado C. Octavio , Shapiro Michael
Published: May 2021

In the theory of bicomplex holomorphic functions, there is not concept of isolated singularities; that is, such functions do not have singularities just at a point like holomorphic functions in one complex variable. However, there are other type of singularities that behave similarly to the isolated singularities in one complex variable. In this work, we describe how they can be classified in such a way that it resembles the classification made for the complex analysis case. It turns out that to singularities there corresponds their orders which are hyperbolic numbers with integer components, not real integers. We give also the Residue Theorem in the bicomplex analysis setting.
Sparse precontrast T1 mapping for high‐resolution whole‐brain DCE‐MRI
Authors: Zhu Zhibo , Lebel R. Marc , Bliesener Yannick , Acharya Jay , Frayne Richard , Nayak Krishna S.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To develop and evaluate an efficient precontrast T1 mapping technique suitable for quantitative high‐resolution whole‐brain dynamic contrast‐enhanced–magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI).

Methods

Variable flip angle (VFA) T1 mapping was considered that provides 1 × 1 × 2 mm3 resolution to match a recent high‐resolution whole‐brain DCE‐MRI protocol. Seven FAs were logarithmically spaced from 1.5° to 15°. T1 and M0 maps were estimated using model‐based reconstruction. This approach was evaluated using an anatomically realistic brain tumor digital reference object (DRO) with noise‐mimicking 3T neuroimaging and fully sampled data acquired from one healthy volunteer. Methods were also applied on fourfold prospectively undersampled VFA data from 13 patients with high‐grade gliomas.

Results

T1‐mapping precision decreased with undersampling factor R, althoughwhereas bias remained small before a critical R. In the noiseless DRO, T1 bias was <25 ms in white matter (WM) and <11 ms in brain tumor (BT). T1 standard deviation (SD) was <119.5 ms in WM (coefficient of variation [COV] ~11.0%) and <253.2 ms in BT (COV ~12.7%). In the noisy DRO, T1 bias was <50 ms in WM and <30 ms in BT. For R ≤ 10, T1 SD was <107.1 ms in WM (COV ~9.9%) and <240.9 ms in BT (COV ~12.1%). In the healthy subject, T1 bias was <30 ms for R ≤ 16. At R = 4, T1 SD was 171.4 ms (COV ~13.0%). In the prospective brain tumor study, T1 values were consistent with literature values in WM and BT.

Conclusion

High‐resolution whole‐brain VFA T1 mapping is feasible with sparse sampling, supporting its use for quantitative DCE‐MRI.
Effect of exercise on neuromuscular toxicity in oxaliplatin‐treated mice
Authors: Lees Justin G. , Abdulla Munawwar , Barkl‐Luke Mallory E. , Livni Lital , Keating Brooke A. , Hayes Jessica , Fiore Nathan T. , Park Susanna B. , Moalem‐Taylor Gila , Goldstein David
Published: May 2021

Introduction/Aims

Clinically, the chemotherapeutic agent oxaliplatin can cause peripheral neuropathy, impaired balance, and muscle wastage. Using a preclinical model, we investigated whether exercise intervention could improve these adverse conditions.

Methods

Mice were chronically treated with oxaliplatin alone or in conjunction with exercise. Behavioral studies, including mechanical allodynia, rotarod, open‐field, and grip‐strength tests, were performed. After euthanasia, multiple organs and four different muscle types were dissected and weighed. The cross‐sectional area (CSA) of muscle fibers in the gastrocnemius muscle was assessed and gene expression analysis performed on the forelimb triceps muscle.

Results

Oxaliplatin‐treated mice displayed reduced weight gain, mechanical allodynia, and exploratory behavior deficits that were not significantly improved by exercise. Oxaliplatin‐treated exercised mice showed modest evidence of reduced muscle wastage compared with mice treated with oxaliplatin alone, and exercised mice demonstrated evidence of a mild increase in CSA of muscle fibers.

Discussion

Exercise intervention did not improve signs of peripheral neuropathy but moderately reduced the negative impact of oxaliplatin chemotherapy related to muscle morphology, suggesting the potential for exploring the impact of exercise on reducing oxaliplatin‐induced neuromuscular toxicity in cancer patients.
Recurrent urinary tract infection: Association of clinical profiles with urobiome composition in women
Authors: Burnett Lindsey A. , Hochstedler Baylie R. , Weldon Kelly , Wolfe Alan J. , Brubaker Linda
Published: May 2021

Aims

Clinical profiles of women with recurrent urinary tract infection (RUTI) are correlated with their urinary microbes.

Methods

This IRB‐approved, cross‐sectional study enrolled adult women with RUTI. Urine samples (catheterized and voided) underwent culture by expanded quantitative urine culture (EQUC) and standard urine culture (SUC) methods. A validated symptom questionnaire, relevant clinical variables, and EQUC were used to identify symptom clusters and detect associations with specific urinary microbes.

Results

Most (36/43) participants were postmenopausal; the average age was 67 years. 51% reported vaginal estrogen use; 51% reported sexual activity. Although single symptoms were not associated with specific urinary microbes, EQUC results were correlated with five distinct clinical profile clusters: Group A: odor, cloudiness, and current vaginal estrogen use (no culture result association). Group B: frequency, low back pain, incomplete emptying, and vaginal estrogen (significantly increased proportion of Lactobacillus‐positive cultures). Group C: pain/burning, odor, cloudiness, and urgency (high proportions of UTI‐associated microbe‐positive cultures). Group D: frequency, urgency, pain/burning, and current vaginal estrogen use (increased number of no growth cultures). Group E: frequency, urgency, pain/burning, odor, overactive bladder, and sexually active (significantly increased proportion of Klebsiella‐positive cultures).

Conclusions

Distinct clinical profiles are associated with specific urinary microbes in women with RUTI. Refined assessments of clinical profiles may provide useful insights that could inform diagnostic and therapeutic considerations.
Association of nocturia and cardiovascular disease: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Moon Shinje , Yu Sung Hoon , Chung Hye Soo , Kim Yoon Jung , Yu Jae Myung , Kim Sung Jin , Kwon Ohseong , Lee Young Goo , Cho Sung Tae
Published: May 2021

Aims

To investigate the association of nocturia with the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data.

Methods

Among the 40 790 individuals who participated in NHANES from 2005 to 2012, 14 114 adults were analyzed in this study. A participant was considered to have nocturia if they have two or more voiding episodes nightly. In addition, participants with nocturia more than four times in a day were considered to have severe nocturia. A multivariate logistic regression analysis with adjustment for confounding variables, including age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, alcohol consumption, sleeping time, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus was performed with 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM).

Results

Nocturia occurred in 4610 individuals (32.7%). The prevalence of CVD was significantly higher in men, older individuals, those with higher BMI, smokers, and those with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. There was also a significantly higher prevalence of nocturia in the participants with CVD. Multivariate analysis showed that odds ratios (ORs) of mild and severe nocturia for CVD were 1.23 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08–1.39) and 1.74 (95% CI: 1.39–2.17), respectively. After 1:1 PSM, the ORs of mild and severe nocturia were 1.27 (95% CI: 1.10–1.48) and 1.73 (95% CI: 1.33–2.26), respectively, showing statistical significance.

Conclusion

Data from the NHANES indicate that CVD was significantly associated with the prevalence of nocturia, after taking major confounding factors into account. Furthermore, the risk for CVD increases with increasing nocturia severity.
Finding minimum label spanning trees using cross‐entropy method
Authors: Vaisman Radislav
Published: May 2021

Obtaining high‐quality solutions to the minimum label spanning tree problem is of crucial importance to efficient communication network design, since such solutions can reduce both the construction cost and the complexity of the ultimate architecture. However, the corresponding optimization task was shown to be hard even for complete graphs. As a consequence, no computationally efficient method for solving this problem exactly in a reasonable time is known to exist and one has to rely on approximation techniques such as heuristic and evolutionary algorithms. In this study, we investigate the performance of a different method called the Cross‐Entropy algorithm which relies on rigorous developments in the fields of information theory and stochastic simulation. Our findings indicate that the mathematical soundness of the Cross‐Entropy method makes it very reliable and robust as compared to its counterparts. In particular, the obtained results suggest that the Cross‐Entropy method is not sensitive to different graph models and that the proposed algorithm can obtain optimal or near‐optimal solutions while using a reasonable computational effort.
A machine learning–based approach to regional‐scale mapping of sensitive glaciomarine clay combining airborne electromagnetics and geotechnical data
Authors: Christensen Craig William , Harrison Edward John , Pfaffhuber Andreas Aspmo , Lund Alf Kristian
Published: May 2021

Sensitive glaciomarine clays, often referred to as ‘quick clay’, commonly occur in many countries at high, northerly latitudes, causing frequent and occasionally devastating landslides. The salt content of quick clay is strongly correlated to both its shear strength and electrical resistivity. Hence, it can be mapped using electromagnetic methods more efficiently than traditional intrusive methods, the latter of which can often be slow and costly. However, the resistivity signature of quick clay is non‐unique, leading to ambiguous, imprecise interpretations of geophysical models. In this study, we present an improved method for predicting the probability of quick clay using airborne electromagnetics. Using machine learning algorithms, we combine geophysical models with geotechnical data to address the issue of their non‐unique resistivity signature. Beyond resistivity values, the machine learning algorithms use spatial derivatives of resistivity and spatial attributes. We evaluate the performance of this method using data collected from a road construction project in central Norway. Results show that this method is able to make plausible and accurate predictions of quick clay occurrence using as few as 10 boreholes across an area of 14.8 km2, and that it outperforms a simple interpretation based on resistivity intervals alone. In addition to a ‘best guess’ categorical classification, these algorithms output probability estimates, and we demonstrate that they are a reliable indication of uncertainty. The accuracy of these predictions also tends to increase as more geotechnical data are included as training data, helping compensate for the limited resolution of the airborne electromagnetics data. Given that the petrophysics of the clays at this test site are consistent with observations in other regions, we expect this method has the potential to make quick clay hazard mapping more efficient by offering valuable early‐phase insights, leading to large time and cost savings for both infrastructure planning and regional hazard mapping.
A reflection of the unfavorable living conditions caused by the First World War in the diet and health of a 10‐year‐old boy (1907–1917) from Vetlá cemetery, Bohemia
Authors: Cvrček Jan , Drtikolová Kaupová Sylva , Půtová Lenka , Velemínský Petr
Published: May 2021

Although First World War battles did not directly affect the territory of all participating states, the conflict brought suffering in the form of a decline in their inhabitants' economic situation. This was also true in the Czech Lands. Opportunities for studying the impact of the period's difficult living conditions on the human body are very limited. This study presents pilot research into the possible influence of the wartime environment on children's lives through the example of a 10‐year‐old boy (1907–1917) from a family of landowners. The circumstances of his death and burial, demonstrated in coffin adjustment, confirm that the war influenced conditions at the time. We therefore considered the possible osteological and nutritional manifestations of the stress of that time, such as difference between biological and chronological age, the presence of skeletal developmental anomalies, signs of nonspecific stress in the form of linear enamel hypoplasia and Harris lines, and diet, also in the family context. The results showed no significant difference between the boy's biological and chronological ages nor body height disorder. There were seven developmental anomalies on his skeleton, some also found in other family members, which supports documented family relationships. Co‐occurrence of signs of nonspecific stress and isotopic shifts were also found, indicating the possible presence of nutritional stress before his wartime death.
Liver Fat Reduction After Gastric Banding and Associations with Changes in Insulin Sensitivity and β‐Cell Function
Authors: Xiang Anny H. , Martinez Mayra P. , Trigo Enrique , Utzschneider Kristina M. , Cree‐Green Melanie , Arslanian Silva A. , Ehrmann David A. , Caprio Sonia , Mohamed Passant H. I. H. , Hwang Darryl H. , Katkhouda Namir , Nayak Krishna S. , Buchanan Thomas A. ,   for the RISE Consortium
Published: May 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between changes in liver fat and changes in insulin sensitivity and β‐cell function 2 years after gastric banding surgery.

Methods

Data included 23 adults with the surgery who had prediabetes or type 2 diabetes for less than 1 year and BMI 30 to 40 kg/m2 at baseline. Body adiposity measures including liver fat content (LFC), insulin sensitivity (M/I), and β‐cell responses (acute, steady‐state, and arginine‐stimulated maximum C‐peptide) were assessed at baseline and 2 years after surgery. Regression models were used to assess associations adjusted for age and sex.

Results

Two years after surgery, all measures of body adiposity, LFC, fasting and 2‐hour glucose, and hemoglobin A1c significantly decreased; M/I significantly increased; and β‐cell responses adjusted for M/I did not change significantly. Among adiposity measures, reduction in LFC had the strongest association with M/I increase (r = −0.61, P = 0.003). Among β‐cell measures, change in LFC was associated with change in acute C‐peptide response to arginine at maximal glycemic potentiation adjusted for M/I (r = 0.66, P = 0.007). Significant reductions in glycemic measures and increase in M/I were observed in individuals with LFC loss >2.5%.

Conclusions

Reduction in LFC after gastric banding surgery appears to be an important factor associated with long‐term improvements in insulin sensitivity and glycemic profiles in adults with obesity and prediabetes or early type 2 diabetes.
Early Weight Loss as a Prognostic Factor in Patients with Advanced Gastric Cancer: Analyses from REGARD, RAINBOW, and RAINFALL Phase III Studies
Authors: Mansoor Wasat , Roeland Eric J. , Chaudhry Aafia , Liepa Astra M. , Wei Ran , Knoderer Holly , Abada Paolo , Chatterjee Anindya , Klempner Samuel J.
Published: May 2021

Background

Weight loss is common in advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (G/GEA); however, the prognostic implications of weight loss during the first cycle (C1) of chemotherapy remain poorly characterized. In this study, we investigated the impact of early weight loss during systemic treatment as a potential prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) in patients with advanced G/GEA.

Materials and Methods

We performed a post hoc analysis of three phase III studies of ramucirumab. Patients were categorized into two groups: weight loss of ≥3% and <3% based on weight change during C1 (3–4 weeks) of treatment. OS by weight groups was assessed for each study and as a pooled meta-analysis. The effect of C1 weight change on patient survival was evaluated using univariate and multivariate Cox models.

Results

A total of 1,464 patients with weight data at the end of C1 were analyzed: REGARD (n = 311), RAINBOW (n = 591), and RAINFALL (n = 562). For all three studies, there were fewer patients in the weight loss ≥3% than <3% group. OS was numerically shorter for patients with weight loss of ≥3% than for patients with weight loss of <3% during C1 irrespective of treatment arm. Similar treatment independent effects of early weight loss on OS were observed in the meta-analysis. Overall, early weight loss ≥3% was associated with shorter survival in patients receiving active drug as well as placebo/best supportive care.

Conclusion

This large post hoc analysis demonstrated that weight loss of ≥3% during C1 was a negative prognostic factor for OS in patients with advanced G/GEA.

Implications for Practice

This comprehensive analysis examining early weight loss during systemic treatment as a predictor of survival outcomes in patients with advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (G/GEA) includes a large sample size, reliable on-treatment data reported in well-conducted phase III clinical trials, and global representation of cancer patients with advanced G/GEA. Understanding the impact of on-treatment weight loss is clinically relevant and may represent an opportunity for targeted interventions.
Engineered hemostatic bionanocomposite of poly(lactic acid) electrospun mat and amino‐modified halloysite for potential application in wound healing
Authors: Delyanee Mahsa , Solouk Atefeh , Akbari Somaye , Daliri Joupari Morteza
Published: May 2021

One of the essential characteristics of an ideal wound dressing is rapid hemostasis. This study aims to investigate the preparation and the characterization of electrospun poly(lactic acid) and halloysite nanotubes (PLA/HNTs) bionanocomposites with either different percentage of pristine and amino‐modified HNTs (i.e., 5, 10, and 20 wt%). The effects of HNT's presence, amount, and modification are evaluated on the physicochemical and biological properties which are essential for hemostatic wound dressing. The energy dispersive spectroscopy indicates HNTs are well embedded and dispersed on PLA nanofibers to induce functional interfacial interactions. The addition of HNTs to the PLA in a concentration of 10 wt% improves moisture properties and increases the Young modulus of mats from 26.4 ± 1.66 to 31.62 ± 1.91 and 40.7 ± 1.99 MPa for pristine and modified HNTs, respectively. Also, the surface charge as an influential factor on hemostasis is increased from −39.1 ± 0.3 to −48.4 ± 0.5 and −43.6 ± 0.2 mV for PLA/pristine and modified HNTs bionanocomposites, respectively. Accordingly, blood clotting formation accelerated from 9 to 4 min for the bionanocomposite mat. Furthermore, biological evaluations show that bionanocomposites have suitable cell supporting. It seems that PLA/amino‐modified HNTs bionanocomposite have potential application for hemostatic wound healing.
Burnout in urban teachers: The predictive role of supports and situational responses
Authors: Camacho Daniel A. , Hoover Sharon A. , Rosete Hazel S.
Published: May 2021

Teachers in urban schools experience stress and burnout at levels that significantly impact their mental health and occupational functioning, and contribute to alarming rates of attrition. The current mixed‐methods study employed a sample of 162 predominantly White and female urban teachers in the United States to examine the role of personal and contextual factors, and responses to situational challenges, in predicting burnout. Results revealed that multiple personal factors and responses to situational challenges predicted burnout. Notably, higher levels of professional and social‐emotional support predicted lower levels of burnout across multiple dimensions, while internal locus of control and digestive responses to situational challenges, respectively, predicted higher levels of Personal Accomplishment and Emotional Exhaustion. Implications include further avenues of research and suggestions for supports which function as teacher resources in the mitigation of burnout and promotion of wellbeing for urban teachers.
Coding‐decoding‐based sliding mode control for networked persistent dwell‐time switched systems
Authors: Wang Jing , Yang Yi , Xia Jianwei , Shi Kaibo , Shen Hao
Published: May 2021

The sliding mode control (SMC) problem for a class of discrete‐time networked switched systems under the coding‐decoding communication protocol (CDCP) is studied in this note. In the networked control systems, the CDCP is adopted to improve the efficiency and security of data transmission. First, based on the uniform quantization method, the criteria to ensure the detectability of the system are given, which establishes the theoretical framework of the CDCP. In addition, a mode‐dependent switched sliding surface and control law are constructed in terms of the decoded signal. Then, on the basis of the mode‐dependent Lyapunov function and matrix decoupling technique, sufficient conditions are given to ensure the exponential boundedness of the system, and the proof of reachability shows that the state responses can reach the sliding surface region in a finite time. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed SMC scheme are demonstrated by a numerical example.
Prescribed‐time control with explicit reference governor for a class of constrained cascaded systems
Authors: Wang Peng , Zhang Xiaobing , Ge Shuzhi Sam
Published: May 2021

Different from both finite‐time control (where the settling time depends on the initial condition) and fixed‐time control (whose settling time is subject to an upper bound but varies due to uncertainties and nonlinearities), the prescribed‐time control achieves regulation in prescribed finite time, even under uncertain nonlinearities. This article investigates the prescribed‐time regulation problem for a class of cascaded systems with integral form and control input constraints. The establishment of prescribed‐time property consists of the prescribed‐time regulation controller and prescribed‐time explicit reference governor (PT‐ERG), both of which satisfy the prespecified time requirement. For an elegant implementation, the feasibility for the separate design of controller and governor is guaranteed through a developed prescribed‐time cascaded stable theory. For the prescribed‐time controller, the proposed smooth time‐varying controller provides the prescribed‐time convergence based on a residual‐time‐dependent scaling transformation. For the PT‐ERG dealing with the control input constraints, a reference trajectory with a fixed minimum convergence rate provides an elegant compromise between performance and constraints which keeps the constraint satisfied and tracking errors in an invariant set. Both theoretical analysis and numerical simulations verify the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.