bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In silico and empirical evaluation of twelve metabarcoding primer sets for insectivorous diet analyses
Authors: Tournayre Orianne , Leuchtmann Maxime , Filippi‐Codaccioni Ondine , Trillat Marine , Piry Sylvain , Pontier Dominique , Charbonnel Nathalie , Galan Maxime
Published: May 2020

During the most recent decade, environmental DNA metabarcoding approaches have been both developed and improved to minimize the biological and technical biases in these protocols. However, challenges remain, notably those relating to primer design. In the current study, we comprehensively assessed the performance of ten COI and two 16S primer pairs for eDNA metabarcoding, including novel and previously published primers. We used a combined approach of in silico, in vivo‐mock community (33 arthropod taxa from 16 orders), and guano‐based analyses to identify primer sets that would maximize arthropod detection and taxonomic identification, successfully identify the predator (bat) species, and minimize the time and financial costs of the experiment. We focused on two insectivorous bat species that live together in mixed colonies: the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and Geoffroy's bat (Myotis emarginatus). We found that primer degeneracy is the main factor that influences arthropod detection in silico and mock community analyses, while amplicon length is critical for the detection of arthropods from degraded DNA samples. Our guano‐based results highlight the importance of detecting and identifying both predator and prey, as guano samples can be contaminated by other insectivorous species. Moreover, we demonstrate that amplifying bat DNA does not reduce the primers' capacity to detect arthropods. We therefore recommend the simultaneous identification of predator and prey. Finally, our results suggest that up to one‐third of prey occurrences may be unreliable and are probably not of primary interest in diet studies, which may decrease the relevance of combining several primer sets instead of using a single efficient one. In conclusion, this study provides a pragmatic framework for eDNA primer selection with respect to scientific and methodological constraints.
Telemonitoring versus standard care in heart failure: a randomised multicentre trial
Authors: Galinier Michel , Roubille François , Berdague Philippe , Brierre Gilles , Cantie Philippe , Dary Patrick , Ferradou Jean‐Marc , Fondard Olivier , Labarre Jean Philippe , Mansourati Jacques , Picard François , Ricci Jean‐Etienne , Salvat Muriel , Tartière Lamia , Ruidavets Jean‐Bernard , Bongard Vanina , Delval Cécile , Lancman Guila , Pasche Hélène , Ramirez‐Gil Juan Fernando , Pathak Atul ,   on behalf of the OSICAT Investigators
Published: May 2020

Aims

The aim was to assess the effect of a telemonitoring programme vs. standard care (SC) in preventing all‐cause deaths or unplanned hospitalisations in heart failure (HF) at 18 months.

Methods and results

OSICAT was a randomised, multicentre, open‐label French study in 937 patients hospitalised for acute HF ≤12 months before inclusion. Patients were randomised to telemonitoring (daily body weight measurement, daily recording of HF symptoms, and personalised education) (n = 482) or to SC (n = 455). Mean ± standard deviation number of events for the primary outcome was 1.30 ± 1.85 for telemonitoring and 1.46 ± 1.98 for SC [rate ratio 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77–1.23; P = 0.80]. In New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III or IV HF, median time to all‐cause death or first unplanned hospitalisation was 82 days in the telemonitoring group and 67 days in the SC group (P = 0.03). After adjustment for known predictive factors, telemonitoring was associated with a 21% relative risk reduction in first unplanned hospitalisation for HF [hazard ratio (HR) 0.79, 95% CI 0.62–0.99; P = 0.044); the relative risk reduction was 29% in patients with NYHA class III or IV HF (HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.53–0.95; P = 0.02), 38% in socially isolated patients (HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.39–0.98; P = 0.043), and 37% in patients who were ≥70% adherent to body weight measurement (HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.45–0.88; P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Telemonitoring did not result in a significantly lower rate of all‐cause deaths or unplanned hospitalisations in HF patients. The pre‐specified subgroup results suggest the telemonitoring approach improves clinical outcomes in selected populations but need further confirmation.
SIRPα on CD11c+ cells induces Th17 cell differentiation and subsequent inflammation in the CNS in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Nishimura Taichi , Saito Yasuyuki , Washio Ken , Komori Satomi , Respatika Datu , Kotani Takenori , Murata Yoji , Ohnishi Hiroshi , Mizobuchi Satoshi , Matozaki Takashi
Published: May 2020

Signal regulatory protein α (SIRPα) is expressed predominantly on type 2 conventional dendritic cells (cDC2s) and macrophages. We previously showed that mice systemically lacking SIRPα were resistant to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Here, we showed that deletion of SIRPα in CD11c+ cells of mice (SirpaΔDC mice) also markedly ameliorated the development of EAE. The frequency of cDCs and migratory DCs (mDCs), as well as that of Th17 cells, were significantly reduced in draining lymph nodes of SirpaΔDC mice at the onset of EAE. In addition, we found the marked reduction in the number of Th17 cells and DCs in the CNS of SirpaΔDC mice at the peak of EAE. Whereas inducible systemic ablation of SIRPα before the induction of EAE prevented disease development, that after EAE onset did not ameliorate the clinical signs of disease. We also found that EAE development was partially attenuated in mice with CD11c+ cell‐specific ablation of CD47, a ligand of SIRPα. Collectively, our results suggest that SIRPα expressed on CD11c+ cells, such as cDC2s and mDCs, is indispensable for the development of EAE, being required for the priming of self‐reactive Th17 cells in the periphery as well as for the inflammation in the CNS.
COVID‐19 vaccines: Knowing the unknown
Authors: Lv Huibin , Wu Nicholas C. , Mok Chris K. P.
Published: May 2020

Vaccine development against SARS‐CoV‐2 has drawn attention around the globe due to the exploding pandemic. Although COVID‐19 is caused by a new coronavirus, SARS‐CoV‐2, previous research on other coronavirus vaccines, such as FIPV, SARS, and MERS, has provided valuable information for the rapid development of COVID‐19 vaccine. However, important knowledge gaps remain — some are specific to SARS‐CoV‐2, others are fundamental to immunology and vaccinology. Here, we discuss areas that need to be addressed for COVID‐19 vaccine development, and what can be learned from examples of vaccine development in the past. Since the beginning of the outbreak, the research progress on COVID‐19 has been remarkable. We are therefore optimistic about the rapid development of COVID‐19 vaccine.
Fatty Acids, Tocopherols, Tocotrienols, Phytosterols, Carotenoids, and Squalene in Seed Oils of Hyptis suaveolens, Leonotis nepetifolia, and Ocimum sanctum
Authors: Sahu Pravin Kumar , Chakradhari Suryakant , Sipeniece Elise , Mišina Inga , Qian Ying , Grygier Ania , Rudzińska Magdalena , Patel Khageshwar Singh , Górnaś Paweł
Published: May 2020

The oil yield and composition of fatty acids, tocopherols, tocotrienols, sterols, carotenoids, and squalene in the seeds of three species—Hyptis suaveolens, Leonotis nepetifolia, Ocimum sanctum—belonging to the Lamiaceae family, are studied. The oil yields are 12.1%, 16.1%, and 29.0% in O. sanctum, H. suaveolens, and L. nepetifolia, respectively. The unsaturated fatty acids are a predominant group (86.8–92.1%) in all three investigated plants; however, the profile for each species is unique. The main fatty acid differs as follows: H. suaveolens—linoleic acid (85.8%), L. nepetifolia—oleic acid (58.3%), and O. sanctum—α‐linolenic (48.6%). γ‐Tocopherol accounts for over 97%, 90%, and 93% of the total tocochromanol content (sum of tocopherols and tocotrienols) in H. suaveolens, L. nepetifolia, and O. sanctum, respectively. Two tocotrienol homologues, α and γ, are detected only in L. nepetifolia. β‐Sitosterol is the main detected sterol (38–59%) in all three species. High levels of campesterol (18–20%), Δ5‐stigmasterol (9–21%), and Δ5‐avenasterol (7–12%) are also detected. Squalene is detected only in O. sanctum (45.8 mg/100 g oil). The content of sterols, tocochromanols, and carotenoids in the investigated Lamiaceae plant seed oils ranges between 279.5–576.3, 54.5–66.7, and 0.3–3.1 mg/100 g oil, respectively.

Practical Applications: Lamiaceae plants are of medicinal interest due to the presence of a broad spectrum of bioactive molecules. The present study demonstrates that seeds of the species H. suaveolens, L. nepetifolia, and O. sanctum are rich sources of bioactive compounds of lipophilic nature. There is limited knowledge associated with the composition of tocopherols, tocotrienols, sterols, carotenoids, and squalene. The results of the studied medicinal plants may enhance future targeted applications in various sectors.
in vitro Selection of Aptamer for Imidacloprid Recognition as Model Analyte and Construction of a Water Analysis Platform
Authors: Bor Gulsah , Man Ezgi , Ugurlu Ozge , Ceylan Ayse Elcin , Balaban Simge , Durmus Ceren , Pinar Gumus Z. , Evran Serap , Timur Suna
Published: May 2020

Pesticide use in agriculture is one of the threats to water safety. Therefore, detection of pesticide residues is crucial for human health. Compared to conventional chromatographic methods, aptasensors are promising tools for fast, cheap and sensitive detection of environmental contaminants. To the best of our knowledge, such an aptasensor has not been reported for imidacloprid (Imi) which is one of the most widely used pesticides. In order to meet this demand, we initially selected two novel aptamers designated as ‘Apta‐1’ and ‘Apta‐2’ by graphene oxide‐SELEX (GO‐SELEX) method. Then, these aptamers were used to fabricate the gold electrode‐based aptasensor platforms and characterized by using electrochemical methods such as cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy as well as X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was found that the limit of detection value of Apta‐1 based sensor for the Imi was found better than Apta‐2 based system, although linear ranges were similar. Based on that finding, Apta‐1 based system was further tested against possible interference molecules. The proposed platform was successfully used for detection of very low concentrations of Imi in the range of ng/mL. Thus, it eliminates the need for sample pre‐treatment and enables a practical analysis in real wastewater samples.
Minimal deuterium isotope effects in quantitation of dimethyl‐labeled complex proteomes analyzed with capillary zone electrophoresis/mass spectrometry
Authors: Yan Xiaojing , Sun Liangliang , Dovichi Norman J. , Champion Matthew M.
Published: May 2020

Stable heavy‐isotope labeling is commonly used in quantitative proteomics. Several common techniques incorporate deuterium (2H) as the heavy isotopic label using reductive amination with formaldehyde. Compared with alternatives, dimethyl labeling reagents are inexpensive and the labeling chemistry is simple and rapid. However, the substitution of hydrogen by deuterium can introduce subtle changes in peptides’ polarities, leading to a shift in chromatographic retention times between deuterated and nondeuterated peptides that can lead to quantification deviations. Capillary zone electrophoresis has emerged as a complementary separation for ESI–MS‐based proteomics, including targeted and quantitative approaches. The extent to which the deuterium isotope effect impacts CZE‐based proteomics, which separates peptides based on their S/N ratios, has not been investigated. To address this issue, CZE was used to analyze dimethyl labeled E. coli tryptic digests in 100 min single‐shot analyses. The median migration time shift was 0.1 s for light versus heavy labeled peptides, which is 2.5% of the peak width. For comparison, nUHPLC–ESI–MS/MS was used to analyze the same sample. In UPLC, deuterated peptides tended to elute earlier than nondeuterated peptides, with a retention shift of 3 s for light versus heavy labeled peptides, which is roughly half the peak width. This shift in separation time did not have a significant effect on quantitation for either method for equal mixing ratios of the light‐intermediate‐heavy isotope labeled samples.
Polyphenolic compounds of amla prevent oxidative stress and fibrosis in the kidney and heart of 2K1C rats
Authors: Rahman Md. Mizanur , Ferdous Khandoker Usran , Roy Shraboni , Nitul Iffat Ara , Mamun Fariha , Hossain Md. Hemayet , Subhan Nusrat , Alam Md Ashraful , Haque Md. Areeful
Published: May 2020

Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) is a natural source of antioxidants and possesses valuable medicinal properties. However, the protective effect of amla in the kidney of two‐kidneys‐one‐clip (2K1C) rats has not been explained sufficiently. This study was performed to evaluate the renoprotective effect of amla fruit powder (2.5% W/W) supplementation in kidneys of 2K1C rats. 2K1C rats increased the remnant kidney wet weight and also increased plasma creatinine and uric acid concentration compared to the control. Amla supplementation ameliorates elevated creatinine and uric acid concentration in plasma of 2K1C rats. Various oxidative stress indicators such as malondialdehyde, nitric oxide (NO), and advanced protein oxidation product (APOP) were also increased in plasma, heart, and kidney tissues in 2K1C rats that were also significantly brought down to normal level by amla supplementation. Moreover, the inflammatory cells entry and fibrosis in the 2K1C rat's tissues were prevented by amla supplementation. These research results suggest that amla may restore plasma antioxidant capacities and prevents oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis in 2K1C rats. Taken these results as a base, clinical supplementation of dried amla powder in diet or juice to the CKD patients would be beneficial.
Metabolic fate of newly developed nondigestible oligosaccharide, maltobionic acid, in rats and humans
Authors: Tanabe Kenichi , Okuda Asuka , Ken Fukami , Yamanaka Natsumi , Nakamura Sadako , Oku Tsuneyuki
Published: May 2020

Maltobionic acid (MA), formed by a gluconic acid and glucose linked by an α‐1,4 bond, may have the properties of a nondigestible oligosaccharide. The objective of this study was to elucidate the bioavailability of MA in rats and humans by observing digestion of MA by small intestinal enzymes, the fermentation of MA by gut microbiota, and the effect of adaptation following prolonged ingestion of MA. MA digestion was assessed using brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) from rat small intestine. A within‐subject repeated measures design was used for ingestion experiments in 10 healthy female participants. After MA ingestion, postprandial plasma glucose and insulin levels, breath hydrogen excretion, and urinary MA were measured. The effect of adaptation following prolonged MA ingestion was investigated in rats. MA was minimally hydrolyzed by BBMV. Ingestion of 10 g of MA by healthy females did not elevate postprandial plasma glucose and insulin levels. Breath hydrogen and urinary MA were negligibly excreted over 8 hr following ingestion. Adaptation to prolonged MA ingestion produced no significant difference in exhaled hydrogen levels over 8 hr following administration compared with controls. MA is a new food material that is highly resistant to digestion and fermentation. It expresses the characteristics of a nondigestible oligosaccharide, including being low energy, improving the flavor of food and juice, and mineral solubilization.
Effects of free and encapsulated transglutaminase on the physicochemical, textural, microbial, sensorial, and microstructural properties of white cheese
Authors: Razeghi Fahimeh , Yazdanpanah Sedigheh
Published: May 2020

In this study, the effect of free and encapsulated transglutaminase (TGase) on physicochemical, textural, microstructural, microbial, and sensorial properties of white cheese was investigated. For this purpose, different types of white cheese incorporated with 20 and 60 ppm free enzyme (F20 and F60) and encapsulated enzyme (E20 and E60) were prepared and then compared with control (C) white cheese without TGase. The results showed that the addition of encapsulated TGase significantly (p ˂ .05) increased protein and fat content, dry matter, nitrogen recovery, and pH, as well as the production yield of cheeses. The hardness of treated samples was increased during the storage time, while the reverse trend was observed for the control sample. F60 and E60 samples showed more oriented and compact structures compared with other samples. Based on the results of sensory evaluation, E60 sample received the highest taste and flavor scores. Generally, the physicochemical, sensorial, and microstructural properties of white chesses were improved by the presence of encapsulated enzyme in the formulation.
Reirradiation with intensity‐modulated radiation therapy for recurrent or secondary head and neck cancer: Meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Lee Jeongshim , Shin In‐Soo , Kim Woo Chul , Yoon Won Sup , Koom Woong Sub , Rim Chai Hong
Published: May 2020

Background

To summarize outcomes of reirradiation with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for recurrent or secondary head and neck cancer (HNC).

Methods

Primary endpoints were 2‐year local control (LC) and overall survival (OS). Studies involving only recurrent nasopharyngeal patients with cancer were excluded.

Results

A total of 17 studies involving 1635 patients were included. Fourteen (82%) of those were retrospective, and 15 (88%) were from single institution. Reirradiation with IMRT produced pooled 2‐year LC and OS rates of 52% (95% confidence interval [CI], 46%‐57%) and 46% (95% CI, 41%‐50%), respectively. In subgroup analyses, the rate of salvage surgery (<42% vs ≥42%) influenced the pooled 2‐year LC rate (45.9% vs 58.5%, P = .011). The pooled rates of late grade ≥ 3 and grade 5 toxicities were 26% (95% CI, 20%‐32%) and 3.1% (95% CI, 2%‐5%), respectively.

Conclusions

Reirradiation with IMRT was an effective modality compared to historical outcomes in the pre‐IMRT era.
Establishing a threshold for rainfall‐induced landslides by a kinetic energy–duration relationship
Authors: Ferro Vito , Carollo Francesco G. , Serio Maria A.
Published: May 2020

Many investigators have attempted to define the threshold of landslide failure, that is, the level of the selected climatic variable above which a rainfall‐induced landslide occurs. Intensity–duration (I–d) relationships are the most common type of empirical thresholds proposed in the literature for predicting landslide occurrence induced by rainfall. Recent studies propose the use of the kinetic power per unit volume of rainfall (J m−2 mm−1) to quantify the threshold of landslides induced by rainfall. In this paper, the relationship between rainfall duration and kinetic power corresponding to landslides triggered by rain was used to propose a new approach to define the threshold for predicting landslide occurrence. In particular, for the first time, a kinetic power per unit volume of rainfall–duration relationship is proposed for defining the minimum threshold needed for landslide failure. This new method can be applied using commonly used relationship for estimating the kinetic power per unit volume of rainfall and a new equation based on the measured raindrop size distribution. The applicability of this last method was tested using the data of rainfall intensity, duration and median volume diameter for 51 landslides in Taiwan. For the 51 landslides, the comparison between the measured pairs' kinetic power–duration and all selected relationships demonstrated that the equation based on the measured raindrop size distribution is the best method to define the landslide occurrence threshold, as it is both a process‐oriented approach and is characterized by the best statistical performance. This last method has also the advantage to allow the forecasting of landslide hazard before the end of the rainfall event, since the rainfall kinetic power threshold value can be exceeded for a time interval less than the event duration.
An enhanced weighted greedy analysis pursuit algorithm with application to EEG signal reconstruction
Authors: Mohagheghian Fahimeh , Deevband Mohammad Reza , Samadzadehaghdam Nasser , Khajehpour Hassan , Makkiabadi Bahador
Published: May 2020

In the past decade, compressed sensing (CS) has provided an efficient framework for signal compression and recovery as the intermediate steps in signal processing. The well‐known greedy analysis algorithm, called Greedy Analysis Pursuit (GAP) has the capability of recovering the signals from a restricted number of measurements. In this article, we propose an extension to the GAP to solve the weighted optimization problem satisfying an inequality constraint based on the Lorentzian cost function to modify the EEG signal reconstruction in the presence of heavy‐tailed impulsive noise. Numerical results illustrate the effectiveness of our proposed algorithm, called enhanced weighted GAP (ewGAP) to reinforce the efficiency of the signal reconstruction and provide an appropriate candidate for compressed sensing of the EEG signals. The suggested algorithm achieves promising reconstruction performance and robustness that outperforms other analysis‐based approaches such as GAP, Analysis Subspace Pursuit (ASP), and Analysis Compressive Sampling Matching Pursuit (ACoSaMP).
Proteomic analysis of underlying apoptosis mechanisms of human retinal pigment epithelial ARPE‐19 cells in response to mechanical stretch
Authors: Yan Fancheng , Gao Meng , Gong Yiyi , Zhang Lin , Ai Nanping , Zhang Jingxue , Chai Yijie , Wu Shen , Liu Qian , Jiang Xian , Deng Haiteng , Liu Wu
Published: May 2020

Our previous study demonstrated mechanical stretch (MS) could induce the apoptosis of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, but the related mechanisms remained unclear. This study was to characterize the protein expression profile in RPE cell line ARPE‐19 exposed to MS, cytochalasin D (CD; an inhibitor of actin polymerization) or CD + MS at 2‐time points (6, 24 hr; n = 3, at each time point) by using proteomics technique. Our data highlighted that compared with control, ECE1 was continuously downregulated in ARPE‐19 cells treated by MS or CD + MS from 6 to 24 hr. Function and protein–protein interaction network analyses showed ATAD2 was downregulated in all three treatment groups compared with control, but successive upregulation of RPS13 and RPL7 and downregulation of AHSG were specifically induced by MS. ATAD2 was enriched in cell cycle; AHSG was associated with membrane organization; RPS13 and RPL7 participated in ribosome biogenesis. Furthermore, transcription factor CREB1 that was upregulated in MS group at 24 hr after treatment, may negatively regulate ATAD2. The expressions of all crucial proteins in ARPE‐19 cells were confirmed by western blot analysis. Overexpression of ATAD2 and AHSG were also shown to reverse the apoptosis of ARPE‐19 cells induced by MS or CD + MS, with significantly decreased apoptotic rates and caspase‐3 activities. Accordingly, our findings suggest downregulation of ATAD2 and AHSG may be potential contributors to the apoptosis of RPE cells induced by MS. Overexpression of them may represent underlying preventive and therapeutic strategies for MS‐induced retinal disorders.
Mass transfer limitations in binderless ZSM‐5 zeolite granules during adsorption of flavour compounds from aqueous streams
Authors: Gernat Deborah C , Rozenbroek Renzo , Brouwer Eric R , van der Wielen Luuk AM , Ottens Marcel
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Recently, a new process concept has been proposed to selectively adsorb wort off‐flavours, i.e. aldehydes, from alcohol‐free beers with hydrophobic zeolites.

RESULTS

In this work, we investigated the uptake of a mixture of wort flavour compounds (2‐methylpropanal, 2‐methylbutanal, 3‐methylbutanal, furfural, and methional), from a model solution onto binderless hydrophobic ZSM‐5 zeolite granules in order to quantify mass transfer parameters and identify bottlenecks. Subsequently, the homogenous solid diffusion model was employed to regress the effective diffusion coefficients for each molecule and experimental condition, which ranged between 10−15 and 10−13 m2 s−1, indicating strong intraparticle mass transfer limitation. Furthermore, it was found that the effective diffusion coefficient is inversely correlated to the molecules' hydrophobicity, expressed as the logD value and its isotherm affinity constant.

CONCLUSION

These results give valuable insight to design and improve the adsorbent material and an off‐flavour removal unit at industrial scale. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Generating simple near‐bipartite bricks
Authors: Kothari Nishad , de Carvalho Marcelo H.
Published: May 2020

A brick is a 3‐connected graph such that the graph obtained from it by deleting any two distinct vertices has a perfect matching. A brick is near‐bipartite if it has a pair of edges and such that is bipartite and matching covered; examples are and the triangular prism . The significance of near‐bipartite bricks arises from the theory of ear decompositions of matching covered graphs. The object of this paper is to establish a generation procedure which is specific to the class of simple near‐bipartite bricks. In particular, we prove that every simple near‐bipartite brick has an edge such that the graph obtained from by contracting each edge that is incident with a vertex of degree two is also a simple near‐bipartite brick, unless belongs to any of eight well‐defined infinite families. This is a refinement of the brick generation theorem of Norine and Thomas which is applicable to the class of near‐bipartite bricks. Earlier, the first author proved a similar generation theorem for (not necessarily simple) near‐bipartite bricks; we deduce our main result from this theorem. Our proof is based on a strategy of Carvalho, Lucchesi and Murty and uses several of their techniques and results.
Changes in temperature and precipitation in the instrumental period (1951–2018) and projections up to 2100 in Podgorica (Montenegro)
Authors: Burić Dragan , Doderović Miroslav
Published: May 2020

The article presents the results of the analysis of several temperature and precipitation parameters in the instrumental period in the capital of Montenegro—Podgorica, for the period 1951–2018. In order to use the latest results of several Regional Climate Models (RCMs) developed for the Western Balkans, the results of temperature and precipitation modelling for the period 2011–2100, ALADIN, HIRHAM i RACMO models for RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios, are also presented. For the observed 68‐year period (1951–2018), the trend calculations clearly show that the temperature is rising. This is indicated by all the analysed temperature parameters (TY, TW, TSp, TSu, TA, TYx, TYn, FD, ID, SU, TD, TR, T35+ and T40+). Although seasonal and annual precipitation totals do not show significant changes in the instrumental period, Podgorica's climate has become more arid and extreme, as the number of days with precipitation ≥1 mm (R1) has significantly decreased. Conversly, the number of days with precipitation has increased ≥40 and 50 mm (R40 and R50). The projected changes in the considered precipitation parameters are in most cases insignificant. The obtained results indicate that there is a high agreement between the temperatures projections of the three models used. Concerning precipitation, it appears that their modelling is more complex, because there are visible qualitative and quantitative differences in the projections of models of future changes in seasonal and annual sums (RY, RW, RSp, RSu and RA), that is, the number of precipitation days (R0.1, R1, R10, R20, R30, R40 and R50). The projections of the used models show that in the future we can expect a warmer climate with more extremes of temperature and precipitation in the grid area to which Podgorica belongs.
The Mediation Effect of Ethical Leadership and Creative Performance: A Social Information Processing Perspective
Authors: Wadei Kwame Ansong , Chen Lu , Frempong Joseph , Appienti William Ansah
Published: May 2020

Drawing upon social information processing theory, the study examined how ethical leadership shapes creative performance. Specifically, we tested a theoretical model integrating the sequential roles of psychological safety and creative self‐efficacy. A two‐waved sample of 512 supervisor‐subordinate dyads from frontline employees of three service industries located in Ghana was administered. The results of the hierarchical linear modeling analysis revealed that there is a positive relationship between ethical leadership and creative performance and that psychological safety positively and significantly mediates the relationship between ethical leadership and creative performance. Similarly, creative self‐efficacy significantly and positively mediates the relationship between ethical leadership and creative performance. Moreover, both psychological safety and creative self‐efficacy sequentially mediate the relationship between ethical leadership and creative performance. We discuss the implications of these results for research and practice.
Comparing the Intestinotrophic Effects of 2 Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐2 Analogues in the Treatment of Short‐Bowel Syndrome in Neonatal Piglets
Authors: Pauline Mirielle L. , Nation Patrick N. , Wizzard Pamela R. , Hinchliffe Tierah , Wu Tong , Dimitriadou Violetta , Turner Justine M. , Wales Paul W.
Published: May 2020

Background

In treating short‐bowel syndrome (SBS), autonomy from parenteral nutrition (PN) relies upon intestinal adaptation, which can be augmented by glucagon‐like peptide‐2 (GLP‐2) analogues. In neonatal piglets with SBS, we compared intestinal adaptation following treatment with 2 GLP‐2 analogues: teduglutide (TED) and apraglutide (APRA)

Methods

Following 75% distal small‐intestinal resection, piglets were allocated to 4 treatment groups: saline (CON: n = 8), twice weekly APRA (5 mg/kg/dose; n = 8), and TED once daily (TED, 0.05 mg/kg/dose; n = 8) or twice daily (TEDBID, 0.05 mg/kg/dose; n = 7). Pharmacokinetic (PK) studies were undertaken, and on day 7, small‐intestinal length and weight were measured and jejunal tissue collected for histology.

Results

PK profiles were different between the 2 analogues. To achieve a comparable exposure to APRA, TED requires twice daily injection (TEDBID). Compared with CON, APRA and TEDBID increased small‐bowel length (cm) (CON: 141, APRA: 166, TED: 153, TEDBID: 165; P = .004), whereas APRA increased small‐bowel weight (g) (CON: 26, APRA: 33, TED: 28, TEDBID: 31; P = .007) and villus height (mm) (CON: 0.59, APRA: 0.90, TED: 0.58, TEDBID: 0.74; P < .001).

Conclusion

APRA injected only twice during the 7 consecutive days demonstrated a superior intestinotrophic effect compared with TED injected once daily. Even at more comparable drug exposure, when TED was injected twice a day, APRA showed superior trophic activity at the mucosal level. This is highly relevant for the treatment of pediatric SBS, given the markedly lower dose frequency by subcutaneous injection of APRA.
Sequence of biologic therapies and surgery affects survival in non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Xu Edison , David Elizabeth A. , Ding Li , Atay Scott M. , McFadden Paul M. , Wightman Sean C. , Kim Anthony W.
Published: May 2020

Background and Objectives

Biologic therapy is changing the landscape of lung cancer treatment. The objectives of this study were to compare overall survival (OS) between patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing neoadjuvant and adjuvant biologic therapy in combination with surgery and to evaluate the impact of chemotherapy on survival after combination biologic therapy and surgery.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for cases of NSCLC from 2004 to 2016. Patient treatment was categorized into neoadjuvant and adjuvant biologic therapy in combination with surgery. Kaplan‐Meier curves were generated to compare OS between treatment groups and between those who did and did not also undergo chemotherapy. Cox regression was used to identify factors predictive of OS.

Results

Six hundred seventy‐three patients underwent both biologic therapy and surgery. The unadjusted overall 5‐year OS was longer for patients undergoing neoadjuvant biologic therapy than for those undergoing adjuvant biologic therapy (P = .006), with OS being 56.2% and 33.0%, respectively. When comparing OS between those who did and did not undergo additional chemotherapy, no difference was observed.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant biologic therapy was associated with longer OS than adjuvant biologic therapy. Chemotherapy did not have an effect on OS when combined with biologic therapy and surgery.
Evaluation inhibitory activity of catechins on trypsin by capillary electrophoresis–based immobilized enzyme microreactor with chromogenic substrate
Authors: Zhang Hao , Lu Min , Jiang Hui , Wang Xu , Yang Feng‐Qing
Published: May 2020

In this study, a capillary electrophoresis‐based online immobilized enzyme microreactor was developed for evaluating the inhibitory activity of green tea catechins and tea polyphenol extracts on trypsin. The immobilized trypsin activity and other kinetic parameters were evaluated by measuring the peak area of the hydrolyzate of chromogenic substrate S‐2765. The results indicated that the activity of the immobilized trypsin remained approximately 90.0% of the initial immobilized enzyme activity after 30 runs. The value of Michaelis–Menten constant (Km) was (0.47 ± 0.08) mM, and the half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and inhibition constant (Ki) of benzamidine were measured as 3.34 and 3.00 mM, respectively. Then, the inhibitory activity of four main catechins (epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, and epigallocatechin gallate) and three tea polyphenol extracts (green tea, white tea, and black tea) on trypsin were investigated. The results showed that four catechins and three tea polyphenol extracts had potential trypsin inhibitory activity. In addition, molecular docking results illustrated that epigallocatechin gallate, epicatechin gallate, epicatechin, and epigallocatechin were all located not only in the catalytic cavity, but also in the substrate‐binding pocket of trypsin. These results indicated that the developed method is an effective tool for evaluating inhibitory activity of catechins on trypsin.
Feasibility and Accuracy of Tele‐Echocardiography, With Examinations by Nurses and Interpretation by an Expert via Telemedicine, in an Outpatient Heart Failure Clinic
Authors: Hjorth‐Hansen Anna Katarina , Andersen Garrett Newton , Graven Torbjørn , Gundersen Guri Holmen , Kleinau Jens Olaf , Mjølstad Ole Christian , Skjetne Kyrre , Stølen Stian , Torp Hans , Dalen Håvard
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To study the feasibility and accuracy of focused echocardiography by nurses supported by near–real‐time interpretation via telemedicine by an experienced cardiologist.

Methods

Fifty consecutive patients were included from an outpatient heart failure (HF) clinic. Limited echocardiography was performed by 1 of 3 specialized nurses. The echocardiograms were transferred by a secure transfer model for near–real‐time interpretation to 1 out‐of‐hospital cardiologist, assessing, among others, the left ventricular (LV) internal diameter, end‐diastolic volume, ejection fraction, left atrial (LA) indexed end‐systolic volume, mitral early inflow velocity (E), the ratio of E to mitral late inflow, and the ratio of E to the mitral annular early diastolic velocity. The reference method was echocardiography by 1 of 4 experienced cardiologists.

Results

The median age of the population (46% women) was 79 (range, 33–95) years. The assessment and quantification of LA and LV dimensions, volumes, and functional indices were feasible in 94% or more via the telemedical approach. The agreement with reference measurements was very high by the telemedical approach. The mean duration ± SD of the complete telemedical approach from the start of echocardiography until the cardiologist's report was received by the caregiving nurse was 1.32 ± 0.36 (range, 1.58) hours. The correlations with reference to the above‐specified indices were r = 0.75 to 0.94.

Conclusions

Limited echocardiography by nurses in an outpatient heart failure clinic, supported by interpretation by an out‐of‐hospital cardiologist, was feasible and reliable. This may reduce geographic disparities and allow more patients to benefit from the advantages of implementing focused echocardiography by noncardiologists in diagnostics and follow‐up.
Stochastic sensitivity analysis of mixed‐mode oscillations in kinetics of the flow reactor
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina
Published: May 2020

In this paper, phase transitions associated with transformations of oscillation regimes in stochastic thermochemical systems are studied. A system of two differential equations specifying the dynamics of the reactant and temperature is used as a conceptual model. On the basis of this model, we investigate how random disturbances can deform equilibrium and periodic regimes of unforced deterministic system and form new complex mixed‐mode oscillations. Along with the results extracted from the direct numerical simulation, a new theoretical approach to the analysis of these fluctuation phenomena using the stochastic sensitivity function technique and confidence domains is demonstrated.
Design of a beam scanning metamaterial antenna with polarization transform for high‐power microwave application
Authors: Zhao Xuhao , Yuan Chengwei , Zhang Jiande , Zhang Qiang
Published: May 2020

An all‐metal beam scanning metamaterial antenna with polarization transform based on the concept of Risley prism is presented in this paper. The antenna is composed of a feed source and three different all‐metal metamaterial lenses. Each lens consists of numerous cross‐slot metamaterial elements. A full transmission phase range of 360° can be achieved for a transmission efficiency over 99% at 14.25 GHz by rotating the cross‐slot on the element. Mechanically rotating the three lenses along the same axis can steer the radiation beam in both azimuth and elevation planes. The simulation results agree well with the theoretical analysis which indicates that the metamaterial antenna can realize a beam scanning range of 120° revolving cone angle with the side lobe better than −13 dB. During the scanning, the directivity of the antenna varies from 34.82 dBi to 37.84 dBi, with the aperture efficiency in the range of 38%‐76%. For the radiated circular polarized (CP) plane wave beam, the beam width remains below 4° and the axial ratio is basically better than −5 dB. Furthermore, the power handling capacity of the metamaterial antenna in this paper is gigawatt (GW) class, which can be applied in the field of high‐power microwave (HPM).
A K‐band fully differential 4‐channel transmitter IC in 65 nm CMOS technology
Authors: Park Jeongsoo , Kim Jinhyun , Kim Jeong‐Geun
Published: May 2020

A K‐band 4‐channel transmitter IC with fully differential architecture is presented in this paper for beamforming phased‐array system. This IC uses commercial 65 nm CMOS technology. The major building blocks of this IC are 3‐stage medium power amplifiers (MPAs) with resistive feedback network to control the gain, 6‐bit phase shifter with tuning bit, 15 dB attenuators, 4‐way power divider consisting switches, and a Marchand balun. All above components are designed by differential architecture. The cross‐connected switch type 180° phase shifter and the differential 4‐way power divider is implemented for low insertion loss and small chip size compared with its conventional switched type phase shifter and three differential 2‐way power dividers, respectively. This TX IC has −5 dB overall gain at 21‐23 GHz. Furthermore, it also available phase shifting of 360° with 5.6° step and attenuating of 29 dB with 1 dB step at 21‐23 GHz, respectively. The RMS phase errors and the RMS amplitude error are achieved <3° and <1 dB at 21‐23 GHz, respectively. The achieved P1dB and saturation power (PSAT) of this TX IC are >0 dB m and >6 dB m, respectively. The 4‐channel TX IC consumes 140 mA of DC current at 2.5 V supply voltage. The overall dimension of 4‐channel TX IC is 3 × 1 mm2.
Current Practices Using Pediatric Malnutrition Indicators: A Survey of Dietitians Working in Pediatrics
Authors: Bellini Sarah Gunnell , Becker Patricia J. , Carney Liesje Nieman , Green Corkins Kelly , Medico Tegan , Van Poots Holly Anne
Published: May 2020

Background

In 2014, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition recommended indicators to identify malnutrition in children aged 1 month to 18 years. The purpose of this study was to evaluate current practices and the effectiveness of the consensus statement–recommended pediatric malnutrition indicators.

Methods

A cross‐sectional electronic survey link was posted in the Pediatric Nutrition Practice Group (subscribers = 3160) and Clinical Nutrition Management Practice Group's Pediatric Subunit (subscribers = 177) community discussion boards. Additionally, flyers with the survey link were distributed to registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) currently working in pediatrics at the 2018 Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo. Frequencies described participant characteristics, awareness of indicators, and use of indicators. Researchers used the Fisher exact test to determine associations between categorical variables.

Results

Two hundred eighty‐one surveys were included in data analysis. A majority of RDNs (88.6%) reported they knew the indicators existed and considered themselves knowledgeable about the indicators. Weight loss was the most frequently used indicator, with 224 RDNs (80%) reporting use as often or always. Mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) was the least used indicator with only 68 RDNs (25%) using it often or always. Most RDNs (71.5%) reported that their facility used International Classification of Disease, Tenth Revision codes to document malnutrition.

Conclusion

RDNs working with pediatric populations consistently use the recommended malnutrition indicators; however, further education is needed on the appropriate use of MUAC and length/height per age as malnutrition indicators.
Data‐driven physics‐based digital twins via a library of component‐based reduced‐order models
Authors: Kapteyn M.G. , Knezevic D.J. , Huynh D.B.P. , Tran M. , Willcox K.E.
Published: May 2020

This work proposes an approach that combines a library of component‐based reduced‐order models with Bayesian state estimation in order to create data‐driven physics‐based digital twins. Reduced‐order modeling produces physics‐based computational models that are reliable enough for predictive digital twins, while still being fast to evaluate. In contrast with traditional monolithic techniques for model reduction, the component‐based approach scales efficiently to large complex systems, and provides a flexible and expressive framework for rapid model adaptation—both critical features in the digital twin context. Data‐driven model adaptation and uncertainty quantification are formulated as a Bayesian state estimation problem, in which sensor data are used to infer which models in the model library are the best candidates for the digital twin. This approach is demonstrated through the development of a digital twin for a 12‐ft wingspan unmanned aerial vehicle. Offline, we construct a library of pristine and damaged aircraft components. Online, we use structural sensor data to rapidly adapt a physics‐based digital twin of the aircraft structure. The data‐driven digital twin enables the aircraft to dynamically replan a safe mission in response to structural damage or degradation.
Discontinuous deformation analysis handling vertex‐vertex contact based on principle of least effort
Authors: Fan Huo , Huang Duruo , Wang Gang
Published: May 2020

This study establishes an innovative discontinuous deformation analysis by solving the problem of frictional and cohesive contact using an implicit cone complementary formulation. In order to handle singularity associated with the vertex‐vertex contact, resistances to motion trend are firstly estimated by introducing the concepts of total and partial contact forces. Based on principle of least effort, the vertex‐vertex contact can be converted to a corresponding vertex‐edge contact properly. In addition, unnecessary vertex‐vertex contacts can be identified. The numerical scheme fully exploits geometric and dynamic conditions of the polygonal block system. As a result, determination of motion trend in the block system is penalty‐free without being affected by the time step. The advantages and application prospects of the presented dynamic framework are demonstrated by using several benchmark examples.
Predictors of physical activity following gestational diabetes: Application of health action process approach
Authors: Mohammadi Zeidi Banafsheh , Kariman Nourossadat , Kashi Zahra , Mohammadi Zeidi Isa , Alavi Majd Hamid
Published: May 2020

Aim

Regular physical activity can reduce the chance of developing type 2 diabetes in women with a history of gestational diabetes. The present study investigated the relationship between the constructs of the health action process approach and regular physical activity in women with a history of gestational diabetes.

Design

This was a cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 150 women who had given birth 6–24 months prior to the study and had experienced gestational diabetes in their recent pregnancy were selected using multistage cluster sampling. Data were collected from December 2018 to May 2019 using a researcher‐made questionnaire including constructs of health action process approach.

Results

The common fit indices revealed that health action process approach had an acceptable fit to the observations (root mean square error of approximation = 0.054, Tucker–Lewis index = 0.95, comparative fit index = 0.955). The model's constructs predicted 48% of intention variance and 35% of physical activity variance. Action self‐efficacy and coping planning were the most important predictors of intention and behaviour, respectively.
Childhood central nervous system tumors and leukemia: Incidence and familial risk. A comparative population‐based study in Utah and Norway
Authors: Del Risco Kollerud Ruby , Cannon‐Albright Lisa A. , Haugnes Hege S. , Ruud Ellen , Thoresen Magne , Nafstad Per , Blaasaas Karl Gerhard , Næss Øyvind , Claussen Bjørgulf
Published: May 2020

Background

In this study, we aimed to evaluate incidence rates and family risk of the most common childhood cancers, tumors in the central nervous system (CNS), and leukemia among individuals from Norway and individuals with Scandinavian ancestry living in Utah.

Methods

We used the Utah Population Database and the Norwegian National Population Register linked to Cancer registries to identify cancers in children born between 1966 and 2015 and their first‐degree relatives. We calculated incidence rates and hazards ratios.

Results

The overall incidence of CNS tumors increased with consecutive birth cohorts similarly in Utah and Norway (bothP< 0.001). Incidence rates of leukemia were more stable and similar in both Utah and in Norway with 4.6/100 000 person‐years among children (<15 years) born in the last cohort. A family history of CNS tumors was significantly associated with risk of childhood CNS tumors in Utah HR = 3.05 (95% CI 1.80‐5.16) and Norway HR = 2.87 (95% CI 2.20‐3.74). In Norway, children with a first‐degree relative diagnosed with leukemia had high risk of leukemia (HR = 2.39, 95% CI 1.61‐3.55).

Conclusion

Despite geographical distance and assumed large lifestyle differences, two genetically linked pediatric populations show similar incidences of CNS tumors and leukemia in the period 1966–2015. CNS tumors and leukemia aggregated in families in both countries.