bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural Correlates of Cardiac Interoceptive Focus Across Development: Implications for Social Symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Failla Michelle D. , Bryant Lauren K. , Heflin Brynna H. , Mash Lisa E. , Schauder Kimberly , Davis Samona , Gerdes Madison B. , Weitlauf Amy , Rogers Baxter P. , Cascio Carissa J.
Published: March 2020

Interoception involves the processing of sensory information relevant to physiological functioning and is integral to building self‐awareness, emotional states, and modulating social behaviors. With the role of interoception in emotional processing and social functioning, there is growing interest in characterizing interoception in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet, there are mixed results regarding cardiac interoceptive accuracy in ASD. In this study, we explored the neural basis of cardiac interoception using an fMRI heartbeat‐counting task in order to assess neural correlates of primary interoception. We predicted that interoceptive‐specific response in the insula, a “hub” for interoception, would be related to ASD symptomatology. We investigated the relationship of insula responses during cardiac interoceptive focus and a self/caregiver‐reported autism‐related symptom scale (Social Responsiveness Scale‐2 (SRS)). Participants included 46 individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (age 8–54, mean = 19.43 ± 10.68 years) and 54 individuals with typical development for comparison (TC, age 8–53, mean = 21.43 ± 10.41 years). We found no significant difference in cardiac interoceptive accuracy or neural response to cardiac interoception focus in ASD. Several insula subdivisions had a curvilinear relationship to age, peaking in early adulthood. Interoceptive‐specific insula response was associated with adult self‐report SRS scores; this association differed by diagnostic group and was not present for caregiver‐reported scores. This work suggests that (a) there is no global deficit in cardiac interoception in ASD, but integrating interoceptive cues with social information may distinguish individuals with ASD, and (b) there is a developmental trajectory for interoceptive processing in the insula that may be relevant for socio‐emotional health. Autism Res 2020, 13: 908‐920. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

We use internal sensory information from the body, such as signals from the heart, to understand our emotional response to the external world. We measured how accurately people with autism feel their heartbeat and how the brain responds to this type of information. We found no differences between the autism and comparison groups in how the brain senses heartbeats, or in how accurately people feel their heartbeats. However, for people with autism, brain responses while sensing heartbeats were related to social difficulties. This work suggests people with autism may use internal and external information in a different way.
Artificial iron hydrogenase made by covalent grafting of Knölker's complex into xylanase: Application in asymmetric hydrogenation of an aryl ketone in water
Authors: Kariyawasam Kalani , Ghattas Wadih , De Los Santos Yossef López , Doucet Nicolas , Gaillard Sylvain , Renaud Jean‐Luc , Avenier Frédéric , Mahy Jean‐Pierre , Ricoux Rémy
Published: March 2020

We report a new artificial hydrogenase made by covalent anchoring of the iron Knölker's complex to a xylanase S212C variant. This artificial metalloenzyme was found to be able to catalyze efficiently the transfer hydrogenation of the benchmark substrate trifluoroacetophenone by sodium formate in water, yielding the corresponding secondary alcohol as a racemic. The reaction proceeded more than threefold faster with the XlnS212CK biohybrid than with the Knölker's complex alone. In addition, efficient conversion of trifluoroacetophenone to its corresponding alcohol was reached within 60 H with XlnS212CK, whereas a ≈2.5‐fold lower conversion was observed with Knölker's complex alone as catalyst. Moreover, the data were rationalized with a computational strategy suggesting the key factors of the selectivity. These results suggested that the Knölker's complex was most likely flexible and could experience free rotational reorientation within the active‐site pocket of Xln A, allowing it to access the subsite pocket populated by trifluoroacetophenone.
Improving the thermostability and acid resistance of Rhizopus oryzae α‐amylase by using multiple sequence alignment based site‐directed mutagenesis
Authors: Li Song , Yang Qian , Tang Bin
Published: March 2020

Higher thermostability or acid resistance for fungal α‐amylase will help to improve the sugar‐making process and cut down the production costs. Here, the thermostability or acid resistance of Rhizopus oryzae α‐amylase (ROAmy) was significantly enhanced by site‐directed evolution based on multiple sequence alignment (MSA) method. For instance, compared with the wild‐type ROAmy, the optimum temperature of mutants G136D and A144Y was increased from 50 to 55 °C, whereas for mutants V174R and I276P, the optimum temperature was increased from 50 to 60 °C. The optimum pH of mutants G136D and A144Y shifted from 5.5 to 5.0, whereas for mutants V174R and T253E, the optimum pH changed from 5.5 to 4.5. The results showed that mutant V174R had a 2.52‐fold increase in half‐life at 55 °C, a 2.55‐fold increase in half‐life at pH 4.5, and a 1.61‐fold increase in catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) on soluble starch. The three‐dimensional model simulation revealed that changes of hydrophilicity, hydrogen bond, salt bridge, or rigidity observed in mutants might mainly account for the improvement of thermostability and acid resistance. The mutants with improved catalytic properties attained in this work may render an accessible and operable approach for directed evolution of fungal α‐amylase aimed at interesting functions.
Inclusive Inquiry: Student–teacher dialogue as a means of promoting inclusion in schools
Authors: Messiou Kyriaki , Ainscow Mel
Published: March 2020

This article traces the development of Inclusive Inquiry, a new approach to the promotion of inclusion in schools. It explains how this builds on a programme of research carried out by the authors over a period of 20 years. Central to the approach is dialogue amongst teachers and their students about how to make lessons more inclusive. This involves children becoming researchers who learn how to use research techniques to gather the views of their classmates, as well as observing lessons. The approach was refined as a result of a 3‐year action research study carried out with a network of eight secondary schools, in three European countries. It was then trialled in 30 primary schools, in five European countries. In each country a team of university researchers supported, recorded and analysed the action research as it occurred, using observations, interviews and surveys. The article provides an analysis of the impact on the thinking and practices of teachers, and on the attitudes and engagement of students in learning. It is argued that Inclusive Inquiry is an approach that facilitates dialogues that can lead to transformations of practices and thinking, and the development of inclusive schools. Some of the challenges involved in using the approach in schools are identified.
Anastomotic leakage after elective colorectal surgery: a prospective multicentre observational study on use of the Dutch leakage score, serum procalcitonin and serum C-reactive protein for diagnosis
Authors:   The Italian ColoRectal Anastomotic Leakage (iCral) Study Group, Catarci M , Ruffo G , Borghi F , Patriti A , Delrio P , Scatizzi M , Mancini S , Garulli G , Carrara A , Pirozzi F , Scabini S , Liverani A , Baiocchi G , Campagnacci R , Muratore A , Longo G , Caricato M , Macarone Palmieri R , Vettoretto N , Ciano P , Bertocchi E , Cianflocca D , Lambertini M , Pace U , Baraghini M , Angeloni R , Lucchi A , Tirone G , Sciuto A , Martino A , di Cesare T , Molfino S , Maurizi A , Tomassini F , Capolupo G T , Amodio P , Arici E , Ruggeri B , Guercioni G
Published: March 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to test use of the Dutch leakage score (DLS), serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum procalcitonin (PCT) in the diagnosis of anastomotic leakage (AL) after elective colorectal resection in a prospective observational study.

Methods

Patients undergoing elective colorectal resection with anastomosis in 19 centres were enrolled over a 1-year period from September 2017. The DLS and CRP and PCT levels were evaluated on postoperative day (POD) 2, POD3 and POD6. Statistical analysis, including determination of the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), was performed for the primary endpoint of AL; secondary endpoints were morbidity and mortality rates (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03560180).

Results

Among 1546 patients enrolled, the AL rate was 4·9 per cent. Morbidity and mortality rates were 30·2 and 1·3 per cent respectively. With respect to AL, DLS performed better than CRP and PTC levels on POD2 and POD3 (AUC 0·75 and 0·84), whereas CRP levels were documented with better AUC values on POD6 (AUC 0·81). Morbidity was poorly predicted, whereas mortality was best predicted by PCT on POD2 (AUC 0·83) and by DLS on POD3 and POD6 (AUC 0·87 and 0·98 respectively). Overall, the combination of positive PCT, CRP and DLS values resulted in a probability of AL of 21·3 per cent on POD2, 33·4 per cent on POD3, and 47·1 per cent on POD6. However, the combination of their negative values excluded AL in 99·0 per cent of cases on POD2, 99·3 per cent on POD3, and 99·2 per cent on POD6.

Conclusion

DLS and CRP level are good positive and excellent negative predictors of AL; the addition of PCT improved the predictive value for diagnosis of AL.
Disentangling the drivers of renewable energy investments: The role of behavioral factors
Authors: Polemis Michael L. , Spais Achilleas
Published: March 2020

The scope of this study is to investigate the main determinants of renewable energy investments in Greece. For this reason, we build an appropriate framework to infer the decision‐making process in the renewable energy sources (RES). The main drivers are then categorized under two groups as economic, and behavioral ones. In the next stage, we rely on binomial (logit and probit) and quantile regression analysis to estimate the impact of these factors on investment decisions towards RES. Our findings indicate that investors who gain better access to knowledge and exhibit a more positive attitude towards the contribution of artificial intelligence (AI) on the RES industry have a higher share of renewables in their portfolio. We argue that these investors are willing to invest a higher amount in the RES industry today. At the same time, quantile regression models illustrate that this relationship is nonmonotonic (i.e., inverted U shaped curve), arguing that positive attitudes towards the contribution of behavioral factors on RES are not adequate to encourage investments after crossing a certain point (threshold). Based on the empirical findings, we argue that the message to policymakers and government officials is to promote a faster penetration of low carbon technologies to achieve sustainable economic and social growth.
Diversity in practitioners' perspectives on the implementation of the evidence‐based Triple P—Positive Parenting Program
Authors: Côté Marie‐Kim , Gagné Marie‐Hélène
Published: March 2020

Evidence‐based programs (EBPs) have the potential to improve the well‐being of families and children, but do not necessarily produce the expected outcomes when implemented in real‐world settings. It thus appears essential to consider the factors that can impact the implementation process, especially those related to the practitioners who deliver these programs. This study aimed to identify and describe common patterns in practitioners' experience of the implementation of an EBP. To this end, six focus groups were conducted with 38 practitioners from the health, social and education sectors, 1 year after they had received training in the evidence‐based Triple P—Positive Parenting Program. An in‐depth analysis of the content of these interviews revealed a diversity in the practitioners' experience of the implementation of Triple P. Three distinct types of discourse regarding the implementation process, labelled ‘conviction’, ‘mastering’ and ‘estrangement’ discourse, were identified. Motivational theories were used to understand the interaction between the factors that appeared to be key elements differentiating the discourses in this typology (i.e., practitioners' attitudes, perceived organisational support, self‐efficacy and level of program use). This study highlights the dynamic nature of the implementation process, and shows that a negative initial position towards a new EBP can change over time, given the appropriate organisational conditions.
Interactive character posing with efficient collision handling
Authors: Kim Jongmin , Seol Yeongho , Kim Hoemin , Kwon Taesoo
Published: March 2020

An interactive interface for character posing is important in the field of computer graphics, games, and virtual reality. The inverse kinematics (IK) solver is the most popular approach that satisfies both the kinematic equations and the user‐defined position and orientation constraints on the end‐effectors. In this article, we present a novel interactive IK framework that efficiently handles various types of collisions and the spatial relationship constraints during the character posing process. Based on our method, a desired human pose can be easily obtained while resolving a collision with the environment and maintaining the spatial relationship of body parts. In addition, the character pose is smoothly updated throughout the user manipulation.
FDA on CBD in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2020

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strongly advised against the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in any form during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The same warning applies to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient of marijuana, and marijuana. These warnings apply to the use of these substances in any form.
A case report revealing acute onset psychosis and cognitive impairment as primary manifestation in relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Nandy Anirban , Nielsen Michael , Hilt Claudia , Mogensen Poul Henning , Yavarian Yousef
Published: March 2020

Acute psychosis and cognitive impairment is a significant problem in RRMS. As it concerns in relatively young age group, our case report underscores the importance of early recognition which could impose diagnostic challenge in multiple sclerosis.
Kinetics of the Ag/KNO3/CaCO3 Catalyzed Aerobic Propylene Epoxidation and Effects of CO2
Authors: Specht Sarah E. , Phivilay Somphonh P. , Chieregato Alessandro , Nagy Sandor , Kimmich Barbara F. M. , Hermans Ive
Published: March 2020

In this contribution we investigate the aerobic propylene epoxidation over a Ag/KNO3/CaCO3 catalyst. The catalytic performance and surface speciation of the catalyst depends on the concentrations of feed modifiers such as ethyl chloride and nitric oxide, added to the feed to improve the selectivity by suppressing total combustion to CO2. After a kinetic characterization of the system, we investigate the kinetics in the presence of CO2. We demonstrate that CO2 alters the rate dependence in both reactants, affects the activation of O2, and results in the same maximum rate of propylene oxide formation.
Garnet‐Polymer Composite Electrolytes with High Li+ Conductivity and Transference Number via Well‐Fused Grain Boundaries in Microporous Frameworks
Authors: Peng Xiang , Huang Kai , Song Shipai , Wu Fang , Xiang Yong , Zhang Xiaokun
Published: March 2020

A garnet‐polymer composite electrolyte with high Li+ conductivity and transference number is developed using microporous Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTO) framework as the matrix. The LLZTO framework, fabricated by a template‐assisted gel‐casting process, possesses micron‐sized grains and well‐fused grain boundaries, eliminating the low‐conductive bottleneck at the interfaces between the ceramic blocks, and providing conductive and continuous networks for Li+ transport. As a result, the garnet‐polymer composite electrolyte displays a high ionic conductivity (2.61×10−4 S cm−1 at 25 °C), an ultrahigh Li+ transference number of 0.71, as well as excellent thermal, structural, and electrochemical stabilities. Benefiting from the desired physical and chemical properties, the presented composite electrolyte enables a Li−Li cell to be cycled for more than 600 h at 25 °C. In addition, the integrated LiFePO4/CPCE/Li cells also show excellent cycling stability with a specific capacity of 133.2 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles under 50 °C. This study demonstrates a significant optimization on the microstructure of composite electrolytes that can be utilized for all‐solid‐state lithium batteries.
Therapeutic potential of a cell penetrating peptide (CPP, NP1) mediated siRNA delivery: Evidence in 3D spheroids of colon cancer cells
Authors: Al‐Husaini Khalsa , Elkamel Erij , Han Xiaoxia , Chen Pu
Published: March 2020

RNA interference holds great potential for cancer therapeutics and its success is highly dependent on an effective delivery system. As most preclinical drug screening in vitro was conducted in flat monolayer cell cultures, development of more physiologically relevant models is needed to enhance testing reliability and effectiveness. Here, the aim was to develop 3D cell spheroids and evaluate the efficiency of NP1, a novel cell penetrating peptide, CPP (STR‐H16R8), developed by our group to assist siRNA delivery. NP1 elicited significant cellular uptake of siRNA and promoted great siRNA knockdown efficiency of Bcl‐2 and VEGF mRNA in 3D spheroids (53% and 51%, respectively), induced marked apoptosis after silencing HIF mRNA, and 3D spheroids displayed apoptosis resistance compared to 2D cells. Taken together, 3D spheroids provide an improved model for testing siRNA delivery and NP1 has proved to be a powerful in vitro transfection reagent.
Postnatal development of the entorhinal cortex: A stereological study in macaque monkeys
Authors: Piguet Olivia , J Chareyron Loïc , Banta Lavenex Pamela , G Amaral David , Lavenex Pierre
Published: March 2020

The entorhinal cortex is the main gateway for interactions between the neocortex and the hippocampus. Distinct regions, layers, and cells of the hippocampal formation exhibit different profiles of structural and molecular maturation during postnatal development. Here, we provide estimates of neuron number, neuronal soma size, and volume of the different layers and subdivisions of the monkey entorhinal cortex (Eo, Er, Elr, Ei, Elc, Ec, Ecl) during postnatal development. We found different developmental changes in neuronal soma size and volume of distinct layers in different subdivisions, but no changes in neuron number. Layers I and II developed early in most subdivisions. Layer III exhibited early maturation in Ec and Ecl, a two‐step/early maturation in Ei and a late maturation in Er. Layers V and VI exhibited an early maturation in Ec and Ecl, a two‐step and early maturation in Ei, and a late maturation in Er. Neuronal soma size increased transiently at 6 months of age and decreased thereafter to reach adult size, except in Layer II of Ei, and Layers II and III of Ec and Ecl. These findings support the theory that different hippocampal circuits exhibit distinct developmental profiles, which may subserve the emergence of different hippocampus‐dependent memory processes. We discuss how the early maturation of the caudal entorhinal cortex may contribute to path integration and basic allocentric spatial processing, whereas the late maturation of the rostral entorhinal cortex may contribute to the increased precision of allocentric spatial representations and the temporal integration of individual items into episodic memories.
Synthesis of TlBr and Tl2AgBr3 Nanocrystals
Authors: Siegler Timothy D. , Shah Tushti , Houck Daniel W. , Suri Mokshin , Zhang Yangning , Korgel Brian A.
Published: March 2020

There are only a few examples of nanocrystal synthesis with thallium (Tl). Here, we report the synthesis of uniform, ligand‐stabilized colloidal nanocrystals of TlBr and Tl2AgBr3 nanocrystals with average diameter ranging between 10 and 20 nm. TlBr nanocrystals are made by hot injection of trimethylsilyl bromide (TMSBr) into solutions of oleylamine, oleic acid and octadecene with thallium (III) or thallium (I) acetate. Tl2AgBr3 nanocrystals form when silver (I) acetate is included in the reaction. The TlBr nanocrystals have CsCl crystal structure with a direct band gap of 3.1 eV. The Tl2AgBr3 nanocrystals have trigonal dolomite crystal structure with an indirect band gap of 3.1 eV. The TlBr nanocrystals made with thallium (III) were sufficiently uniform to assemble into face‐centered cubic (fcc) superlattices.
Bioavailability of Triprolidine as a Single Agent or in Combination With Pseudoephedrine: A Randomized, Open‐Label Crossover Study in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Febbraro Salvatore , Shea Tim , Cravo Ana Santos
Published: March 2020

Antihistamines have been in clinical use for more than 70 years to treat allergic and nonallergic symptoms including relief from cold and flu symptoms. Despite their widespread use, pharmacokinetic (PK) data are sparse for older, first‐generation antihistamines. This phase 1 single‐center open‐label, randomized, single‐dose, 3‐way crossover trial evaluated the PK profiles of 2 doses of film‐coated triprolidine caplets (2.5 and 5 mg) compared with a reference combination tablet (triprolidine 2.5 mg + pseudoephedrine 60 mg) in 24 healthy adults. Blood samples were collected predose and at specified intervals across a 24‐hour period after administration, and triprolidine was quantified using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Maximum plasma concentration of triprolidine for the 2.5 mg and dose‐normalized 5 mg single‐agent tablets were comparable (8.4 versus 7.1 ng/mL, respectively) and higher for the combination tablet (9.5 ng/mL). PK parameters, including time to maximum plasma concentration (∼1.5 hours) and elimination half‐life (∼4 hours), were comparable between the 3 treatment arms. The safety profile of this sedating antihistamine was as expected; however, adverse effects were reported in a markedly higher proportion of women than men. There were no significant sex differences in any of the measured PK parameters.
Layer‐by‐Layer Motif Heteroarchitecturing of N,S‐Codoped Reduced Graphene Oxide‐Wrapped Ni/NiS Nanoparticles for the Electrochemical Oxidation of Water
Authors: Zakaria Mohamed Barakat , Guo Yanna , Na Jongbeom , Tahawy Rafat , Chikyow Toyohiro , El‐Said Waleed A. , El‐Hady Deia A. , Alshitari Wael , Yamauchi Yusuke , Lin Jianjian
Published: March 2020

A new heterostructured material is synthesized with lamellar arrangements in nanoscale precision through an innovative synthetic approach. The self‐assembled Ni‐based cyano‐bridged coordination polymer flakes (Ni‐CP) and graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets with a layered morphology (Ni‐CP/GO) are used as precursors for the synthesis of multicomponent hybrid materials. Annealing of Ni‐CP/GO in nitrogen at 450 °C allows the formation of Ni3C/rGO nanocomposites. Grinding Ni‐CP/GO and thiourea and annealing under the same conditions produces N,S‐codoped reduced GO‐wrapped NiS2 flakes (NiS2/NS‐rGO). Interestingly, further heating up to 550 °C allows the phase transformation of NiS2 into NiS accompanied by the formation of a face‐centered cubic (FCC‐Ni) metal phase between NS‐rGO layers (FCC‐Ni‐NiS/NS‐rGO). Among all the materials, the resulting FCC‐Ni‐NiS/NS‐rGO exhibits good electrocatalytic activity and stability toward the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) owing to the synergistic effect of multiphases, the well‐designed alternating layered structures on the nanoscale with abundant active sites.
Mercury‐Free Synthesis of Pincer [C^N^C]AuIII Complexes by an Oxidative Addition/CH Activation Cascade
Authors: Eppel Daniel , Rudolph Matthias , Rominger Frank , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: March 2020

Starting from the commercially available dimethyl sulfide‐gold(I) chloride complex (DMSAuCl) and diazonium salts in the presence of 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methylpyridine as base, symmetric and unsymmetric [C^N^C]AuIIICl complexes were synthesized in a selective, photosensitizer‐free, photochemical reaction using blue LED light. This new protocol provides the first mercury‐free synthesis of these types of pincer‐complexes in moderate‐to‐excellent yields, starting from a readily available gold(I) precursor. Owing to the extraordinary properties of the target compounds, like excellent luminescence and high anticancer activities, the synthesis of such complexes is a highly active field of research, which might make its way to an industrial application. Owing to the disadvantages of the known protocols, especially the toxicity and the selectivity issues in the case of unsymmetric complexes, avoiding the use of mercury, should further accelerate this ongoing development.
Long‐term renal outcomes associated with sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaodan , Zhong Zhen , Li Yanli , Li Wangen
Published: March 2020

Aims

The long‐term impact of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on renal functions remains undefined. This study was undertaken to investigate the renal outcomes associated with SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in the long term.

Methods

A systematic literature search of PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted. Randomized controlled trials which reported renal outcomes at the study endpoint in patients with T2DM receiving treatments of SGLT2 inhibitors were included. Renal adverse events were determined using prespecified lists from the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities or laboratory values. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used for assessment of dichotomous data. The mean difference or standardized mean difference with 95% CI was used for assessment of continuous data. Random effects models were adopted to measure the pooled outcomes.

Results

Thirty‐nine studies involving 35 trials were identified. Compared with placebo or other anti‐diabetic medications, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with significant lower incidence of composite renal outcome and acute renal failure or injury in patients with T2DM. The risk of progression of albuminuria also appeared to be decreased. No significant changes of estimated glomerular filtration rate levels or urine albumin‐creatinine ratios were found in patients receiving SGLT2 inhibitors.

Conclusions

Overall renal safety and beneficial effects are indicated for SGLT2 inhibitors. Further confirmative data from large trials and real‐world studies are needed.
Potential distribution of Notopterygium incisum Ting ex H. T. Chang and its predicted responses to climate change based on a comprehensive habitat suitability model
Authors: Zhao Zefang , Guo Yanlong , Wei Haiyan , Ran Qiao , Liu Jing , Zhang Quanzhong , Gu Wei
Published: March 2020

Notopterygium incisum Ting ex H. T. Chang is a rare and endangered traditional Chinese medicinal plant. In this research, we built a comprehensive habitat suitability (CHS) model to analyze the potential suitable habitat distribution of this species in the present and future in China. First, using nine different algorithms, we built an ensemble model to explore the possible impacts of climate change on the habitat distribution of this species. Then, based on this model, we built a CHS model to further identify the distribution characteristics of N. incisum‐suitable habitats in three time periods (current, 2050s, and 2070s) while considering the effects of soil and vegetation conditions. The results indicated that the current suitable habitat for N. incisum covers approximately 83.76 × 103 km2, and these locations were concentrated in the Tibet Autonomous Region, Gansu Province, Qinghai Province, and Sichuan Province. In the future, the areas of suitable habitat for N. incisum would significantly decrease and would be 69.53 × 103 km2 and 60.21 × 103 km2 in the 2050s and 2070s, respectively. However, the area of marginally suitable habitat would remain relatively stable. This study provides a more reliable and comprehensive method for modelling the current and future distributions of N. incisum, and it provides valuable insights for highlighting priority areas for medicinal plant conservation and resource utilization.
The effects of predation risk on prey stoichiometry: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Rinehart S. , Hawlena D.
Published: March 2020

A decade ago, the general stress paradigm (GSP) aimed to develop a predictive framework linking predator effects to ecosystem function. The GSP was based on the notion that animals, across taxa, exhibit similar physiological responses to predation risk that divert resources from growth and reproduction (which require N‐rich biomolecules [i.e., protein]) to emergency functions (which require C‐rich biomolecules [e.g., carbohydrates]). The GSP predicts that stressed prey should have a greater dietary demand for C‐rich resources, a higher body C:N ratio, and elevated N excretion. Now, 10 yr later, we aim to revisit the GSP—using quantitative meta‐analysis to test the original predictions of the GSP and how (1) predator hunting mode, (2) multiple stressors, and (3) prey dietary shifts affect prey stoichiometric responses to predation risk. Our data set was consistent with previous work showing that predation risk increases prey glucocorticoid levels and metabolic rates and decreases prey growth rates. We found that predation risk tended to decrease the fat, carbohydrate, and protein content of prey bodies; increased the C:P and N:P of prey bodies; but had no effect on the C, N, P, or C:N content of prey bodies. Additionally, we found no effect of predation risk on the N content of prey excretions. Prey responses to predation risk were unaffected by multiple stressors or the prey’s ability to shift their diet, but predator hunting mode did affect the nature of prey stoichiometric responses. Specifically, ambush predators decreased prey macronutrient content and suppressed prey growth, and active predators had no effect on prey macronutrient content and a smaller effect on prey growth than ambush predators. The significant effects of predation risk were supported by robust fail‐safe numbers, despite the high between‐comparison heterogeneity that was found in all analyses. Our findings highlight the need (1) to test the underlying mechanisms and emerging patterns of the GSP in diverse taxa, (2) to explore the mismatch between prey macronutrient content and elemental stoichiometry, and (3) to expand the conceptual framework to include more inducible defenses (e.g., behavioral and morphological) and predator traits.
The impact of insurance type on listing status and wait‐list mortality of patients with left ventricular assist devices as bridge to transplantation
Authors: Briasoulis Alexandros , Akintoye Emmanuel , Inampudi Chakradhari , Hammoud Aziz , Alvarez Paulino
Published: March 2020

Aims

Adequate health insurance coverage is necessary for heart transplantation (HT) candidates. Prior studies have suggested inferior outcomes post HT with public health insurance. We sought to evaluate the effects of insurance type on transplantation rates, listing status and mortality prior to HT.

Methods and results

Patients ≥18 years old with a left ventricular assist device implanted and listed with 1A status were identified in the United Network for Organ Sharing registry between January 2010 and December 2017, with follow‐up through March 2018. Patients were grouped based on the type of insurance private/self‐pay (PV), Medicare (MC), and Medicaid (MA) at the time of listing. We conducted multivariable competing risks regression analysis on listing status and mortality on the waiting list, stratified by insurance type at the time of listing. We identified 2604 patients listed in status 1A (PV: 51.4%, MC: 32.1%, and MA: 16.5%). MA patients were younger (43.5 vs. 56.4 for MC vs. 51.5 for PV, P < 0.001) and less frequently White (P < 0.001). The cumulative incidence of HT did not differ among the three insurance types (PV: 74.8%, MC 76.3%, and MA 71.1%, P = 0.14). The cumulative mortality on the waiting list prior to HT was not different among groups (PV: 29.3%, MC 26.3%, and MA 21.8%, P = 0.94). Μore patients with MA were removed from the list because of improvement of their condition (MA 40.3% vs. MC 28.3% and PV 32.8%).

Conclusions

We did not detect any disparities in listing status and mortality among different insurance types.
Inhibition of stearoyl‐CoA desaturases suppresses follicular help T‐ and germinal center B‐ cell responses
Authors: Son Young Min , Cheon In Su , Goplen Nick P. , Dent Alexander L. , Sun Jie
Published: March 2020

Stearoyl‐CoA desaturases (SCD) are endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐associated enzymes that catalyze the synthesis of the monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). As such, SCD play important roles in maintaining the intracellular balance between saturated fatty acid (SFAs) and MUFAs. The roles of SCD in CD4+ T‐helper cell responses are currently unexplored. Here, we have found that murine and human follicular helper T (TFH) cells express higher levels of SCD compared to non‐TFH cells. Further, the expression of SCD in TFH cells is dependent on the TFH lineage‐specification transcription factor BCL6. We found that the inhibition of SCD impaired TFH cell maintenance and shifted the balance between TFH and follicular regulatory T (TFR) cells in the spleen. Consequently, SCD inhibition dampened germinal center B‐cell responses following influenza immunization. Mechanistically, we found that SCD inhibition led to increased ER stress and enhanced TFH cell apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. These results reveal a possible link between fatty acid metabolism and cellular and humoral responses induced by immunization or potentially, autoimmunity.
Research on torque fluctuation suppression method of linear motor based on magnetic field orientation control
Authors: Liu Wei , Li Fengpeng , Jing Cheng , Wan Yidong , Wang Xingxing , Helali M.
Published: March 2020

In order to solve the problem of torque fluctuation caused by uneven magnetic field of AC servo linear motor, a novel torque fluctuation suppression method based on magnetic field‐oriented control was proposed for a U‐type three‐phase permanent magnet synchronous linear motor (PMSLM) without iron core. Considering the nonideal magnetic field and the thrust fluctuation of winding, the d‐q coordinate model of PMSLM is established by coordinate transformation. Based on Matlab, PMSLM vector closed‐loop control system model is designed, and the compensation coefficient of torque fluctuation is determined. The prototype platform of PMSLM was built, and the driver with current loop, velocity loop, and position loop is designed. Then the influence of thrust fluctuation before and after suppression on the tracking error of velocity and position is studied. The experimental results show that the suppression of thrust fluctuation can greatly improve the speed fluctuation and position tracking accuracy.
Extenuation of phase shift influenced nonlinear impairments in fiber optics network
Authors: Ali Farman , Khan Yousaf , Muhammad Fazal , Habib Usman , Haq Abbas Ziaul , Ahmad Khan Maqsood , Ali Asar
Published: March 2020

Transmission of ultrahigh data rates through fiber optics networks (FONs) over long transmission distances in an intensity‐dependent refractive index medium suffers from nonlinear self‐steepening (NSS) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS). In this paper, a FON model is proposed to compensate NSS and SRS impairments, using a theoretical model and its verification through simulation for different set of parameters. The proposed FON is designed to support 8, 16, and 32 channels with dual polarization quadrature phase shift keying modulation format. The analysis is performed for a range of values for the transmission medium including nonlinear effective area, nonlinear refractive index, and nonlinear dispersion. Moreover, the performance of the proposed model is evaluated in terms of launch power, polarization variations, received power, and length of transmission fiber. The overall work is analyzed for transmission distances up to 1200 km for performance metric of bit error rate, eye diagram, and received symbols constellations diagram.
Microwave cooking increases sulforaphane level in broccoli
Authors: Lu Yingjian , Pang Xinyi , Yang Tianbao
Published: March 2020

Sulforaphane (SFR), an anticarcinogenic compound, forms from the hydrolysis of glucoraphanin (GLR) in broccoli. Cooking methods have been shown to affect broccoli GLR and SFR levels, but little is known about the effect of lightly cooking processes on them. In this study, the effects of microwave and low‐temperature cooking on GLR and SFR contents in broccoli were investigated. Both microwaving and mild heating increased the GLR and SFR levels in broccoli compared to the raw samples (without any treatment). In particular, SFR level was significantly low under 40°C and dramatically increased from 40 to 60°C, but nothing was detected at 70°C. Compared with conventional heating, microwave heating increased the GLR and SFR yield by about 80% at 50 and 60°C. Microwave power level also influenced the SFR contents. At the same temperatures (50 and 60°C), high‐power microwave (950 W) with a short time produced over 40% more SFR than low‐power microwave treatment (475 W). Hence, mild heating by microwave could increase the GLR and SFR levels in broccoli, and high‐power microwave heating with temperature control at 60°C could retain higher bioavailability of these bioactive compounds in broccoli.
Understanding the impact of bilateral brain injury in children with unilateral cerebral palsy
Authors: Pagnozzi Alex M. , Pannek Kerstin , Fripp Jurgen , Fiori Simona , Boyd Roslyn N. , Rose Stephen
Published: March 2020

The presence of bilateral brain injury in patients with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) may impact neuroplasticity in the ipsilateral hemisphere; however, this pattern of injury is typically under‐analyzed due to the lack of methods robust to severe injury. In this study, injury‐robust methods have been applied to structural brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data of a cohort of 91 children with unilateral CP (37 with unilateral and 54 with bilateral brain injury, 4–17 years) and 44 typically developing controls (5–17 years), to determine how brain structure is associated with concurrent motor function, and if these associations differ between patients with unilateral or bilateral injury. Regression models were used to associate these measures with two clinical scores of hand function, with patient age, gender, brain injury laterality, and interaction effects included. Significant associations with brain structure and motor function were observed (Pearson's r = .494–.716), implicating several regions of the motor pathway, and demonstrating an accurate prediction of hand function from MRI, regardless of the extent of brain injury. Reduced brain volumes were observed in patients with bilateral injury, including volumes of the thalamus and corpus callosum splenium, compared to those with unilateral injury, and the healthy controls. Increases in cortical thickness in several cortical regions were observed in cohorts with unilateral and bilateral injury compared to controls, potentially suggesting neuroplasticity might be occurring in the inferior frontal gyrus and the precuneus. These findings identify prospective useful target regions for transcranial magnetic stimulation intervention.
Osteoradionecrosis in osseous free flap reconstruction: Risk factors and treatment
Authors: Dziegielewski Peter T. , Bernard Stewart , Mendenhall William M. , Hitchock Kathryn E. , Parker Gibbs Charles , Wang Joy , Amdur Robert J. , Silver Natalie L. , Hardeman John , Seikaly Hadi , Reschly William J. , Danan Deepa , Sawhney Raja
Published: March 2020

Objective

To determine the rate and risk factors for osteoradionecrosis (ORN) in osseous free flaps after postoperative radiation therapy (PORT). To describe the treatment of free flap ORN.

Methods

Seventy‐four patients undergoing osseous free flap reconstruction were analyzed. Thirty‐eight completed PORT. Patients were followed for ≥6 months.

Results

The rate of ORN was 34% overall; 0% with 50 to 59.9 Gy; 8% with 60 Gy; 40% with 66 Gy; 56% with 70 to 74.4 Gy. Mean time to ORN was 13.1 months. 0/28 patients without PORT developed free flap osteonecrosis. Multivariate analysis found the only factor predicting ORN: PORT >60 Gy, which increased the risk 21‐fold. Treatment included PENTACLO, hyperbaric oxygen, and surgical debridement with 75% within 2 years.

Conclusion

PORT >60 Gy is significantly associated with free flap ORN. As the dose of adjuvant RT increases beyond 60 Gy, the risk of ORN in free flaps rises. Consideration should be given to lower PORT doses or delaying free flap reconstruction when feasible.
Mendelian randomisation analysis of circulating adipokines and C‐reactive protein on breast cancer risk
Authors: Robinson Timothy , Martin Richard M. , Yarmolinsky James
Published: March 2020

Circulating adipokines and C‐reactive protein (CRP) have been linked to breast cancer risk in observational epidemiological studies. The causal nature of these associations is unclear because of the susceptibility of conventional observational designs to residual confounding, reverse causation and other forms of bias. Mendelian randomisation (MR) uses genetic variants as proxies for risk factors to strengthen causal inference in observational settings. We performed a MR analysis to evaluate the causal relevance of six previously reported circulating adipokines [adiponectin, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), interleukin‐6, leptin receptor, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 and resistin] and CRP in risk of overall and oestrogen receptor‐stratified breast cancer in up to 122,977 cases and 105,974 controls of European ancestry. Genetic instruments were constructed from single‐nucleotide polymorphisms robustly (p < 5 × 10−8) associated with risk factors in genome‐wide association studies. Colocalisation was performed as a sensitivity analysis to examine whether findings reflected shared causal variants or genomic confounding. In MR analyses, there was evidence for an association of HGF with oestrogen receptor‐negative cancer (odds ratio per standard deviation increase: 1.17, 95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.35; p = 0.035) but little evidence for associations of other adipokines or CRP with overall or oestrogen receptor‐stratified breast cancer. Colocalisation analysis suggested that the association of HGF with oestrogen receptor‐negative breast cancer was unlikely to reflect a causal association. Collectively, these findings do not support an important aetiological role of various adipokines or CRP in overall or oestrogen receptor‐specific breast cancer risk.
Intimate partner violence and reproductive coercion against a clinic‐based sample of low‐income women in Mexico City: A latent class analysis
Authors: Willie Tiara C. , Olavarrieta Clauda Diaz , Scolese Anna , Campos Paola , Falb Kathryn L. , Gupta Jhumka
Published: March 2020

Community health clinics can have an active role in addressing IPV and reproductive coercion through policies and services in Mexico City.
Use of Femur Length as a Means of Assessing M‐Mode Ventricular Dimensions During Second and Third Trimesters of Pregnancy in Normal Fetus
Authors: De Vore Greggory R. , Siassi Bijan , Platt Lawrence D.
Published: March 2020

Eighty‐two normal fetuses were scanned from 18 to 41 weeks of gestation. The following M‐mode measurements were correlated with the femur length: end‐diastolic right ventricular (r = 0.93), left ventricular (r = 0.92), biventricular outer (r = 0.94), and biventricular inner (r = 0.94) dimensions; tricuspid (r = 0.93) and mitral (r = 0.92) valve opening excursion; right (r = 0.76) and left (r = 0.70) ventricular wall thickness; and interventricular septal thickness (r = 0.75). Polynomial regression demonstrated that linear regression best described the data from which the mean and 5% and 95% confidence limits for predicted M‐mode measurements were computed for the femur length.
Placental Grade and Pulmonary Maturity in Premature Fetuses
Authors: Destro F. , Calcagnile F. , Ceccarello P. L. , Lando M. , Destro M.
Published: March 2020

The correlation between the placental echographic appearances and pulmonary maturity was studied in 32 cases of normal pregnancy between the 29th and 33d weeks. The placental appearance was classified according to Grannum's criteria, and an amniocentesis was performed in each case. Both an L/S ratio and a foam stability (Clements') test were performed on the amniotic fluid. There were 10 cases of grade I and 22 cases of grade II placenta in the series. There was one mature L/S ratio in each placental grade; both had intermediate results with Clements' test. These findings differ significantly from those published in the literature on the subject, which are based on investigations in more mature fetal populations.
Comparison of Computed Tomography and Ultrasound in the Evaluation of Abdominal Neuroblastoma
Authors: Saks John B. , Bryan Patrick J. , Yulish Barry S. , Gauderer Michael W. L. , Haaga John R.
Published: March 2020

A retrospective review of 15 cases of abdominal neuroblastoma was undertaken to determine the efficacy of ultrasound (US) in the evaluation of this disorder. Thirteen of the 15 cases were studied with both US and computed tomography (CT). It was found that US was accurate in all but two cases, where shadowing from bowel gas and dense tumor calcifications prevented accurate delineation of residual tumors. The CT scans were degraded by artifacts from surgical clips in three cases and by patient motion in one. A nonopacified loop of bowel was mistaken for tumor by CT in one case. We conclude that although both CT and US should be done initially, US alone is adequate in most cases for follow‐up of abdominal neuroblastoma. When excessive bowel gas is encountered, or dense tumor calcifications are known to be present, CT is the modality of choice.
Sonography of Experimental Acute Renal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Paling Michael R. , Wakefield Jean A. , Watson Laurence R.
Published: March 2020

Complete occlusion of the renal vein in five rabbits with the kidney in its normal position was followed by high‐resolution ultrasound. Early changes consisted of moderate renal enlargement and a diffuse increase in renal echogenicity with a fine echo pattern. On the average, renal length increased by only 13%. Delayed changes were a gradual reduction in renal echogenicity, falling to below baseline, with blurring of the corticomedullary boundary. Intrarenal hemorrhage alone occurred in only one kidney. Perirenal hematomata were seen in two other cases associated with localized intrarenal hemorrhage adjacent to the point of capsular rupture (overall renal morphology was preserved). The relative subtlety of the changes observed contrasts with previously reported data and is felt to preclude a specific diagnosis.