bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Context‐dependent carryover effects of hypoxia and warming in a coastal ecosystem engineer
Authors: Donelan Sarah C. , Breitburg Denise , Ogburn Matthew B.
Published: February 2021

Organisms are increasingly likely to be exposed to multiple stressors repeatedly across ontogeny as climate change and other anthropogenic stressors intensify. Early life stages can be particularly sensitive to environmental stress, such that experiences early in life can “carry over” to have long‐term effects on organism fitness. Despite the potential importance of these within‐generation carryover effects, we have little understanding of how they vary across ecological contexts, particularly when organisms are re‐exposed to the same stressors later in life. In coastal marine systems, anthropogenic nutrients and warming water temperatures are reducing average dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations while also increasing the severity of naturally occurring daily fluctuations in DO. Combined effects of warming and diel‐cycling DO can strongly affect the fitness and survival of coastal organisms, including the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica), a critical ecosystem engineer and fishery species. However, whether early life exposure to hypoxia and warming affects oysters' subsequent response to these stressors is unknown. Using a multiphase laboratory experiment, we explored how early life exposure to diel‐cycling hypoxia and warming affected oyster growth when oysters were exposed to these same stressors 8 weeks later. We found strong, interactive effects of early life exposure to diel‐cycling hypoxia and warming on oyster tissue : shell growth, and these effects were context‐dependent, only manifesting when oysters were exposed to these stressors again two months later. This change in energy allocation based on early life stress exposure may have important impacts on oyster fitness. Exposure to hypoxia and warming also influenced oyster tissue and shell growth, but only later in life. Our results show that organisms' responses to current stress can be strongly shaped by their previous stress exposure, and that context‐dependent carryover effects may influence the fitness, production, and restoration of species of management concern, particularly for sessile species such as oysters.
The Heart Failure Association Atlas: Heart Failure Epidemiology and Management Statistics 2019
Authors: Seferović Petar M. , Vardas Panagiotis , Jankowska Ewa A. , Maggioni Aldo P. , Timmis Adam , Milinković Ivan , Polovina Marija , Gale Chris P. , Lund Lars H. , Lopatin Yuri , Lainscak Mitja , Savarese Gianluigi , Huculeci Radu , Kazakiewicz Dzianis , Coats Andrew J.S. ,   in collaboration with the National Heart Failure Societies of the ESC member countries (see Appendix)
Published: February 2021

Aims

The Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) developed the HFA Atlas to provide a contemporary description of heart failure (HF) epidemiology, resources, reimbursement of guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT) and activities of the National Heart Failure Societies (NHFS) in ESC member countries.

Methods and results

The HFA Atlas survey was conducted in 2018–2019 in 42 ESC countries. The quality and completeness of source data varied across countries. The median incidence of HF was 3.20 [interquartile range (IQR) 2.66–4.17] cases per 1000 person‐years, ranging from ≤2 in Italy and Denmark to >6 in Germany. The median HF prevalence was 17.20 (IQR 14.30–21) cases per 1000 people, ranging from ≤12 in Greece and Spain to >30 in Lithuania and Germany. The median number of HF hospitalizations was 2671 (IQR 1771–4317) per million people annually, ranging from <1000 in Latvia and North Macedonia to >6000 in Romania, Germany and Norway. The median length of hospital stay for an admission with HF was 8.50 (IQR 7.38–10) days. Diagnostic and management resources for HF varied, with high‐income ESC member countries having substantially more resources compared with middle‐income countries. The median number of hospitals with dedicated HF centres was 1.16 (IQR 0.51–2.97) per million people, ranging from <0.10 in Russian Federation and Ukraine to >7 in Norway and Italy. Nearly all countries reported full or partial reimbursement of standard GDMT, except ivabradine and sacubitril/valsartan. Almost all countries reported having NHFS or working groups and nearly half had HF patient organizations.

Conclusions

The first report from the HFA Atlas has shown considerable heterogeneity in HF disease burden, the resources available for its management and data quality across ESC member countries. The findings emphasize the need for a systematic approach to the capture of HF statistics so that inequalities and improvements in care may be quantified and addressed.
Effects of enzymatic reaction on the generation of key aroma volatiles in shiitake mushroom at different cultivation substrates
Authors: Li Wen , Chen Wan‐Chao , Wang Jin‐Bin , Feng Jie , Wu Di , Zhang Zhong , Zhang Jing‐Song , Yang Yan
Published: February 2021

Aroma is an important factor affecting mushroom character and quality. According to the different reaction pathway, the key aroma metabolites (sulfur and eight‐carbon volatiles) formation can be classified into enzymatic reactions and nonenzymatic reactions. Aroma volatiles are generated from precursors via the biocatalytic activities of various synthases during the growth stages of shiitake mushrooms. Understanding the specific relationships between the key aroma metabolites and their synthases is key to improving shiitake mushroom quality. At the same time, to reduce forest logging and burning of agricultural by‐products in farmland, agricultural by‐products have been applied to shiitake mushroom cultivation. Nevertheless, how to further improve the production of aroma volatiles in mushroom cultivated with agricultural waste is still a challenge. In order to understand the biosynthesis of volatiles via enzymatic reactions and screen the agricultural by‐products that can improve the production of aroma volatiles in mushroom cultivation, the mechanism of producing aroma volatiles needs to be further elucidated. In this study, the activities and gene expression levels of the key synthases involved in volatile metabolism, the contents of key aroma volatiles, and the correlations between related synthetase, volatiles, and cultivation substrate (CS) were investigated. Network models for visualizing the links between synthetase, volatiles, and CSs were built through partial least squares (PLS) regression analysis. The correlation coefficients among three related synthetase and enzymatic gene expression were high, and the combined effects of multiple synthetase promoted the production of volatiles. PLS analysis showed that the corncob and corn meal were more related to the production of volatiles and synthetase gene expression, and they can be added to the CSs as flavor promoting substances. The enrichment of key aroma volatiles in shiitake mushroom cultivated by the gradient of 20% corn meal combination CS was noticeable.
The effect of Amygdalus scoparia Spach and Lepidium sativum L. seed gums on the properties of formulated food supplement for soldiers using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Razjoo Amirhossein , Azizkhani Maryam , Esmaeilzadeh Kenari Reza
Published: February 2021

Today, the lack of a proper nutritional formulation of the diet for soldiers is well felt. In this study, a newly formulated food supplement (FFS) was designed to supply all essential nutrients like protein, carbohydrate, oil, fat‐soluble vitamins, and minerals, and Lepidium sativum L. seed (shahi) gum and Amygdalus scoparia Spach (zedo) gum were applied to FFS to promote physicochemical and sensory properties of FFS. The samples were developed by preparing emulsion including meat powder (45.0 g/100 g), soybean powder (25.0 g/100 g), and plant oils (15.0 g/100 g). Iron, zinc, and fat‐soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) were also added to the formulation, and response surface methodology was used to optimize the effects of shahi and zedo gum at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 g/100 g in FFS. The results showed that using hydrocolloids in appropriate amounts enhanced the sensory properties of FFS. Hydrocolloids protected the moisture content of FFS samples and also decreased the reduction of vitamins and minerals during 14 days of storage at 4°C. The hydrocolloids improved the color indices and intrinsic viscosity of samples. The results of this study recommend the use of 1.26 g/100 g of shahi gum and 0.95 g/100 g of zedo gum to produce formulated food supplement for soldiers. This formulation supplies calories and provides some of the essential vitamins and food components to the body.
Chromite‐bearing quartzite in the southern fringe of Singhbhum Craton around Ghutrigaon, Eastern India: Petrogenetic implication
Authors: Das Asish K. , Khaoash Somnath , Mishra Patitapaban , Mohapatra Birendra K. , Mohanty Jayakrushna
Published: February 2021

The chromite mineralization in the southern fringe of the Singhbhum Craton around Ghutrigaon, Dhenkanal district, Odisha, Eastern India shows a unique nature of occurrence. The structural features, mineral assemblage, and spinel composition are different from the two well‐known Sukinda and Boula‐Nuasahi chromite deposits occurring within the mafic/ultramafic complex in Odisha. The chromite‐bearing quartzite from Ghutrigaon shows typical sedimentary features, such as colour banding, cross‐bedding, broomsticks, and slump structures and is closely associated with large volumes of volcanic tuff. The chromite‐bearing quartzite contains major quartz and chromite along with minor accessories such as fuchsite, chromian muscovite, chromphyllite, chromceladonite, chromechalcedony, rutile, and zircon. Detailed mineralogical, textural, and spinel compositional analysis support to its detrital origin having been derived from a volcanic source. The Cr‐spinel composition shows very low Mg‐number (0.01–0.04) and high Cr‐number (0.69–0.79) in contrast to chrome ores from different localities of India. The EPMA results when plotted in various established discrimination diagrams show a distinctly different domain, indicating that these are affected by a pro‐grade metamorphic event. Our study shows that the Ghutrigaon chromite ore owes a mixed origin where chromite detritus from a volcanic provenance (island arc to intra‐plate terrain) got deposited along with terrestrially derived silica‐rich clastics. Paucity in magnesium content in the spinel may be the result of replacement of Mg by Fe2+ due to compositional re‐equilibration during metamorphism. Grain coarsening took place at the onset of metamorphism. The volcaniclastics added to the arenaceous sediment gave rise to different Al‐silicate minerals. The chrome‐content in most of these minerals is attributed to redistribution of Cr through solid‐state diffusion during metamorphism. Rutile and Zircon detritus are considered as continental input. The presence of Zn, Mn, and Ni in the chrome spinel is most likely contributed by the precursor rock. The formation of large idioblastic chromite grains, preferred grain orientation, band development, elevated values of some elements in the spinel, Zn in particular attest to their formation under low‐grade regional metamorphism (greenschist facies).
Cross‐sex shifts in two brain imaging phenotypes and their relation to polygenic scores for same‐sex sexual behavior: A study of 18,645 individuals from the UK Biobank
Authors: Abé Christoph , Lebedev Alexander , Zhang Ruyue , Jonsson Lina , Bergen Sarah E. , Ingvar Martin , Landén Mikael , Rahman Qazi
Published: February 2021

Genetic and hormonal factors have been suggested to influence human sexual orientation. Previous studied proposed brain differences related to sexual orientation and that these follow cross‐sex shifted patterns. However, the neurobiological correlates of sexual orientation and how genetic factors relate to brain structural variation remains largely unexplored. Using the largest neuroimaging‐genetics dataset available on same‐sex sexual behavior (SSB) (n = 18,645), we employed a data‐driven multivariate classification algorithm (PLS) on magnetic resonance imaging data from two imaging modalities to extract brain covariance patterns related to sex. Through analyses of latent variables, we tested for SSB‐related cross‐sex shifts in such patterns. Using genotype data, polygenic scores reflecting the genetic predisposition for SSB were computed and tested for associations with neuroimaging outcomes. Patterns important for classifying between males and females were less pronounced in non‐heterosexuals. Predominantly in non‐heterosexual females, multivariate brain patterns as represented by latent variables were shifted toward the opposite sex. Complementary univariate analyses revealed region specific SSB‐related differences in both males and females. Polygenic scores for SSB were associated with volume of lateral occipital and temporo‐occipital cortices. The present large‐scale study demonstrates multivariate neuroanatomical correlates of SSB, and tentatively suggests that genetic factors related to SSB may contribute to structural variation in certain brain structures. These findings support a neurobiological basis to the differences in human sexuality.
Deleterious point mutations in T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Mechanistic insights into leukemogenesis
Authors: Roy Urbi , Raghavan Sathees C.
Published: February 2021

T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) is characterized by the leukemogenic transformation of immature T cells, which accumulate an array of genetic and epigenetic lesions, leading to a sustained proliferation of abnormal T cells. Genetic alterations in the DNA repair genes, protooncogenes, transcription factors, and epigenetic modifiers have been studied in the past decade using next‐generation sequencing and high‐resolution copy number arrays. While other genomic lesions like chromosomal rearrangements, inversions, insertions, and gene fusions have been well studied at functional level, the mechanism of generation of driver mutations in T‐ALL is the subject of current investigation. Novel oncogenic mutations in the TP53, BRCA2, PTEN, IL7R, RAS, NOTCH1, ETV6, BCL11B, WT1, DNMT3A, PRC2, PHF6, USP7, KDM6A and an array of other genes disrupt the genetic and epigenetic homeostasis in T‐ALL. In this review, we have summarized the mechanistic role of deleterious driver mutations in T‐ALL initiation and progression. We speculate that the formation of non‐B DNA structures could be one of the primary reasons for the occurrence of different genomic lesions seen in T‐ALL, which warrants further investigation. Understanding the mechanism behind the genesis of oncogenic mutations will pave the way to develop targeted therapies that can improve the overall survival and treatment outcome.
Low‐dose pembrolizumab in the treatment of advanced non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Low Jia Li , Huang Yiqing , Sooi Kenneth , Ang Yvonne , Chan Zhi Yao , Spencer Katie , Jeyasekharan Anand Devaprasath , Sundar Raghav , Goh Boon Cher , Soo Ross , Yong Wei Peng
Published: February 2021

A dose of 200 mg 3‐weekly of pembrolizumab was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as treatment for advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without oncogenic drivers. This is despite evidence showing no difference in efficacy with 2 mg/kg. Our study aimed to assess the efficacy of a lower fixed dose of 100 mg, which is closer to 2 mg/kg weight‐based dose in an average‐sized Asian patient. All patients receiving pembrolizumab for advanced NSCLC from January 2016 to March 2020 in National University Hospital, Singapore, were included in this retrospective observational study. The effect of pembrolizumab 100 mg (Pem100) vs 200 mg (Pem200) upon survival outcomes, toxicity and cost were examined. One hundred fourteen patients received pembrolizumab. Sixty‐five (57%) and 49 (43%) received Pem100 and Pem200, respectively. There was no difference in progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) between Pem100 vs Pem200 as a single agent (PFS: 6.8 vs 4.2 months, hazard ratio [HR] 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36‐1.46, P = .36; 9 month OS: 58% vs 63%, HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.48‐2.41, P = .86) and when combined with chemotherapy (9‐month PFS: 60% vs 50%, HR0.84, 95% CI 0.34‐2.08, P = .71; 9‐month OS: 85% vs 58%, HR 0.27, 95% CI 0.062‐1.20, P = .09). No significant difference in response rate or ≥G3 immune‐related toxicities between Pem100 and Pem200 was observed. A cost minimisation analysis evaluating the degree of cost savings related to drug costs estimated a within study cost saving of SGD4,290,912 and cost saving per patient of SGD39,942 in the Pem100 group. A 100 mg of pembrolizumab appears to be effective with reduction in cost. A randomised trial should be done to investigate a lower dose of pembrolizumab.
Alcohol drinking and risks of total and site‐specific cancers in China: A 10‐year prospective study of 0.5 million adults
Authors: Im Pek Kei , Millwood Iona Y. , Kartsonaki Christiana , Chen Yiping , Guo Yu , Du Huaidong , Bian Zheng , Lan Jian , Feng Shixian , Yu Canqing , Lv Jun , Walters Robin G. , Li Liming , Yang Ling , Chen Zhengming ,   The China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) Collaborative Group
Published: February 2021

Alcohol drinking is associated with increased risks of several site‐specific cancers, but its role in many other cancers remains inconclusive. Evidence is more limited from China, where cancer rates, drinking patterns and alcohol tolerability differ importantly from Western populations. The prospective China Kadoorie Biobank recruited >512 000 adults aged 30 to 79 years from 10 diverse areas during 2004 to 2008, recording alcohol consumption patterns by a standardised questionnaire. Self‐reported alcohol consumption was estimated as grams of pure alcohol per week based on beverage type, amount consumed per occasion and drinking frequency. After 10 years of follow‐up, 26 961 individuals developed cancer. Cox regression was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) relating alcohol consumption to incidence of site‐specific cancers. Overall, 33% (n = 69 734) of men drank alcohol regularly (ie, ≥weekly) at baseline. Among male current regular drinkers, alcohol intake showed positive dose‐response associations with risks of cancers in the oesophagus (655 events; HR = 1.98 [95%CI 1.79‐2.18], per 280 g/wk), mouth and throat (236; 1.74 [1.48‐2.05]), liver (573; 1.52 [1.31‐1.76]), colon‐rectum (575; 1.19 [1.00‐1.43]), gallbladder (107; 1.60 [1.16‐2.22]) and lung (1017; 1.25 [1.10‐1.42]), similarly among never‐ and ever‐regular smokers. After adjustment for total alcohol intake, there were greater risks of oesophageal cancer in daily drinkers than nondaily drinkers and of liver cancer when drinking without meals. The risks of oesophageal cancer and lung cancer were greater in men reporting flushing after drinking than not. In this male population, alcohol drinking accounted for 7% of cancer cases. Among women, only 2% drank regularly, with no clear associations between alcohol consumption and cancer risk. Among Chinese men, alcohol drinking is associated with increased risks of cancer at multiple sites, with certain drinking patterns (eg, daily, drinking without meals) and low alcohol tolerance further exacerbating the risks.
Mental health of individuals who are deaf during COVID‐19: Depression, anxiety, aggression, and fear
Authors: Al Majali Salwa A. , Alghazo Emad M.
Published: February 2021

This study aims to assess depression and anxiety levels among individuals, who are deaf during the lockdown throughout the first wave of the pandemic United Arab Emirates. The sample of the study consisted of 36 (n = 36) individuals aged 20.3 ± 1.2 years, who were deaf from birth. The respondents were divided into two groups; (1) those who were living with their parents (n = 20), (2) those who were independently living on their own (n = 16). Results of the study indicated that from May to October, there was decrease in the number of normal mental health cases among those living with parents (p ≤ 0.05). The results of the study show that in the time of the pandemic, deaf people constitute a vulnerable portion of the population. The correlation between living alone and stress levels was 0.78. The correlation between living with parents and stress levels was −0.85.
Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping Using a Multispectral Autoregressive Moving Average Model to Assess Hepatic Iron Overload
Authors: Tipirneni‐Sajja Aaryani , Loeffler Ralf B. , Hankins Jane S. , Morin Cara , Hillenbrand Claudia M.
Published: February 2021

Background

R2*‐MRI is clinically used to noninvasively assess hepatic iron content (HIC) to guide potential iron chelation therapy. However, coexisting pathologies, such as fibrosis and steatosis, affect R2* measurements and may thus confound HIC estimations.

Purpose

To evaluate whether a multispectral auto regressive moving average (ARMA) model can be used in conjunction with quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) to measure magnetic susceptibility as a confounder‐free predictor of HIC.

Study Type

Phantom study and in vivo cohort.

Subjects

Nine iron phantoms covering clinically relevant R2* range (20–1200/second) and 48 patients (22 male, 26 female, median age 18 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

Three‐dimensional (3D) and two‐dimensional (2D) multi‐echo gradient echo (GRE) at 1.5 T.

Assessment

ARMA‐QSM modeling was performed on the complex 3D GRE signal to estimate R2*, fat fraction (FF), and susceptibility measurements. R2*‐based dry clinical HIC values were calculated from the 2D GRE acquisition using a published R2*‐HIC calibration curve as reference standard.

Statistical Tests

Linear regression analysis was performed to compare ARMA R2* and susceptibility‐based estimates to iron concentrations and dry clinical HIC values in phantoms and patients, respectively.

Results

In phantoms, the ARMA R2* and susceptibility values strongly correlated with iron concentrations (R2 ≥ 0.9). In patients, the ARMA R2* values highly correlated (R2 = 0.97) with clinical HIC values with slope = 0.026, and the susceptibility values showed good correlation (R2 = 0.82) with clinical dry HIC values with slope = 3.3 and produced a dry‐to‐wet HIC ratio of 4.8.

Data Conclusion

This study shows the feasibility that ARMA‐QSM can simultaneously estimate susceptibility‐based wet HIC, R2*‐based dry HIC and FFs from a single multi‐echo GRE acquisition. Our results demonstrate that both, R2* and susceptibility‐based wet HIC values estimated with ARMA‐QSM showed good association with clinical dry HIC values with slopes similar to published R2*‐biopsy HIC calibration and dry‐to‐wet tissue weight ratio, respectively. Hence, our study shows that ARMA‐QSM can provide potentially confounder‐free assessment of hepatic iron overload.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Feral Horse Space Use and Genetic Characteristics from Fecal DNA
Authors: King Sarah R. B. , Schoenecker Kathryn A. , Fike Jennifer A. , Oyler‐McCance Sara J.
Published: February 2021

Feral horses (Equus ferus caballus) in the western United States are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and United States Forest Service in designated areas on public lands with a goal of maintaining populations in balance with multiple uses of the landscape. Small, isolated populations can be at risk of extirpation from stochastic events and deleterious genetic effects resulting from inbreeding and reduced heterozygosity. The genetic diversity of feral horse herds is periodically monitored using blood or hair samples collected during management gathers (i.e., occasions when the herd is rounded up). We conducted a study to examine genetic characteristics of the feral horse population at the BLM Little Book Cliffs Herd Management Area (HMA) in Colorado, USA, using non‐invasively collected fecal samples. Additionally, we explored whether genotypes could be used to document space use and potential sub‐population development. We used a random sampling scheme, walking transects in sampling areas covering most of the HMA to find and collect fecal samples of all ages, except those that were deteriorating. We collected >1,800 fecal samples from across the study area in May, August, and October 2014. We then identified unique individuals using a suite of microsatellite loci. Our estimates of genetic diversity from fecal samples were higher than those reported from blood and hair samples taken during recent horse gathers, likely because our sample size and spatial distribution was larger. Genotypes revealed that some individuals were found only in certain parts of the study area and at a higher proportion than random; thus, they could be considered residents in those sampling areas. Using discriminant function analyses, we detected 5 genetic groups in the sample population, but these did not correspond to individuals in specific parts of the study area. Our results support the use of fecal DNA to augment direct observations of horse presence and could be used to detect habitat use and areas of high density. Non‐invasive techniques such as fecal DNA sampling can help managers decide whether new individuals need to be translocated to a closed population to maintain genetic diversity without the human safety and animal welfare concerns associated with gathers and invasive techniques. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.
Statins, vascular calcification, and vitamin K‐dependent proteins: Is there a relation?
Authors: Zhelyazkova‐Savova Maria D. , Yotov Yoto T. , Nikolova Miglena N. , Nazifova‐Tasinova Neshe F. , Vankova Deyana G. , Atanasov Atanas A. , Galunska Bistra Tz.
Published: February 2021

The present cross‐sectional clinical study aimed to examine the connection between statin exposure, coronary artery calcification (CAC), and vitamin K‐dependent proteins (VKDPs) in patients with cardiovascular (CV) conditions. Two groups of patients were studied: patients with established CV disease (CVD) and healthy patients at moderate risk for CVD (a control group). The groups were also split into statin users and non‐users. The following VKDPs were measured in plasma: uncarboxylated Matrix Gla‐protein (ucMGP), undercarboxylated (ucOC), and carboxylated osteocalcin (cOC), Gla‐rich protein (GRP). CAC score (CACS) was determined by multislice computed tomography. Among all the participants in the study, CACS was more pronounced in statin users compared to non‐users; the same was found also among the CVD patients and among the controls. While the levels of ucMGP and GRP did not differ between statin users and non‐users, ucOC and ucOC/cOC were significantly elevated in statin users, indicating vitamin K deficiency. There was a positive correlation between the levels of ucOC and CACS in the entire population and in the group of statin users, but not in statin non‐users. No association was found between ucMGP or GRP and CACS. Statins had also an impact on the international normalized ratio and interacted with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Our results are in agreement with the existing evidence about positive association between statins and vascular calcification. They enlighten to a certain extent the possible mechanisms through which statins may enhance calcium accumulation in arterial wall, namely, by inhibition of vitamin K dependent proteins and functions involved in vascular protection.
A decision model approach for determining social innovation potential of technological projects
Authors: Ozdemir Fatih , Ar Ilker Murat , Baki Birdogan
Published: February 2021

Since project management is inevitably a social effort involving all relevant actors, social aspects have to be emphasized when considering collaborative project management. Social innovation focuses on reacting to social demands and developing innovative solutions to overcome various social issues. Therefore, determining the social innovation potential in the project management process is very important. The main purpose of this study is to propose a Fuzzy Analytic Network Process (FANP) and Fuzzy VIKOR (FVIKOR)‐based decision model to determine the social innovation potential of technological projects. The results of FANP revealed that the most important criteria for determining social innovation potential of projects are financial resources, technological developments and social capital. Furthermore, FVIKOR was used for ranking social innovation potential of the selected technological projects. There are several managerial implications of this study. First, we suggest that practitioners should integrate the proposed model into their project evaluation processes. Second, they can also use this model to define the social innovation factors during project selection. Lastly, the proposed model can be employed to prioritize the social innovation factors that enable managers to allocate the appropriate resources to project management process.
Euglycemia Indicates Favorable Motor Outcome in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Markaki Ioanna , Ntetsika Theodora , Sorjonen Kimmo , Svenningsson Per ,   for the BioPark Study Group
Published: February 2021

Background

The interplay between glycemic control and Parkinson's disease (PD) has long been recognized but not fully understood.

Objectives

To investigate the association of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels with motor and cognitive symptom progression in a prospective PD cohort.

Methods

Of 244 PD patients, 17 had low HbA1c (≤30 mmol/mol), 184 were euglycemic (HbA1c 31–41 mmol/mol), 18 had high HbA1c (HbA1 ≥42 mmol/mol), and 25 had diabetes mellitus (DM). Survival analysis was applied on time until Hoehn and Yahr stage ≥3 (motor outcome) and until mild cognitive impairment.

Results

Low HbA1c (HR 2.7; 95% CI 1.3–6; P = 0.01) as well as high HbA1c (HR 3.6; 95% CI 1.5–8.9; P = 0.005) but not DM were independent predictors of unfavorable motor outcome.

Conclusions

Both high and low HbA1c levels may be associated with motor symptom progression in PD; however, further studies are needed to confirm these findings and increase understanding regarding causality. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Analysis of fractional‐order Schrödinger–Boussinesq and generalized Zakharov equations using efficient method
Authors: BENLİ Fatma Berna
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we find the solution for an interesting family of coupled Schrödinger equations exemplifying simulating consequences. The fractional Schrödinger–Boussinesq (FSB) and fractional generalized Zakharov (FGZ) equations are analyzed in the present framework usingfractional natural decomposition method(FNDM). The hired technique is graceful amalgamations of natural transform technique with Adomian decomposition scheme. Three different cases are considered, one with FSB equations and two cases are associated with FGZ equations with different initial conditions. To validate and illustrate the proficiency of the projected solution procedure, we analyzed the projected model in terms of fractional order. Further, we captured the nature of FNDM results for different values of fractional order in terms of the plots. The considered scheme is highly effective and structured while examining nonlinear models and which can be observed and confirmed from the obtained results. Moreover, the plots show that the hired fractional operator and algorithm can help to exemplify the more fascinating properties of the complex system associated with real‐world problems.
An all‐at‐once approach to full waveform inversion in the viscoelastic regime
Authors: Rieder Andreas
Published: February 2021

Full waveform seismic inversion (FWI) in the viscoelastic regime entails the task of identifying parameters in the viscoelastic wave equation from partial waveform measurements. Traditionally, one frames this nonlinear problem as an operator equation for the parameter‐to‐state map. Alternatively, in an all‐at‐once approach, one augments the nonlinear operator by the viscoelastic wave equation as an additional component and considers the states as additional variables. Hence, parameters and states are sought for simultaneously. In this article, we give a mathematically rigorous all‐at‐once version of FWI in a functional analytical formulation. Further, the corresponding nonlinear map is shown to be Fréchet differentiable, and the adjoint operator of the Fréchet derivative is given in an explicit way suitable for implementation in a Newton‐type/gradient‐based regularization scheme.
Local SAR compression algorithm with improved compression, speed, and flexibility
Authors: Orzada Stephan , Fiedler Thomas M. , Quick Harald H. , Ladd Mark E.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Local specific absorption rate (SAR) compression algorithms are essential for enabling online SAR monitoring in parallel transmission. A better compression resulting in a lower number of virtual observation points improves speed of SAR calculation for online supervision and pulse design.

Method

An iterative expansion of an existing algorithm presented by Lee et al is proposed in this work. The original algorithm is used within a loop, making use of the virtual observation points from the previous iteration as the starting subvolume, while decreasing the overestimation with each iteration. This algorithm is evaluated on the SAR matrices of three different simulated arrays.

Result

The number of virtual observation points is approximately halved with the new algorithm, while at the same time the compression time is reduced with speed‐up factors of up to 2.5.

Conclusion

The new algorithm improves the original algorithm in terms of compression rate and speed.
Baseline Modified Glasgow Prognostic Score Associated with Survival in Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Brown Jacqueline T. , Liu Yuan , Shabto Julie M. , Martini Dylan J. , Ravindranathan Deepak , Hitron Emilie Elise , Russler Greta Anne , Caulfield Sarah , Yantorni Lauren Beth , Joshi Shreyas S. , Kissick Haydn , Ogan Kenneth , Harris Wayne B. , Carthon Bradley C. , Kucuk Omer , Master Viraj A. , Bilen Mehmet Asim
Published: February 2021

Background

The modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), a clinical tool that incorporates albumin and C-reactive protein, has proven useful in the prognostication of multiple cancers. Several immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been approved for the treatment of metastatic urothelial cell carcinoma (mUC), but a prognostic biomarker is needed. We investigated the impact of mGPS on survival outcomes in patients with mUC receiving ICIs.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients with mUC treated with ICIs (programmed cell death protein 1 or programmed cell death ligand 1 inhibitors) at Winship Cancer Institute from 2015 to 2018. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were measured from the start date of ICI until death or clinical or radiographic progression, respectively. mGPS was defined as a summary score with one point given for C-reactive protein >10 mg/L and/or albumin <3.5 g/dL. Univariate (UVA) and multivariate (MVA) analyses were carried out using Cox proportional hazard model. These outcomes were also assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results

A total of 53 patients were included with a median follow-up 27.1 months. The median age was 70 years, with 84.9% male and 20.8% Black. Baseline mGPS was 0 in 43.4%, 1 in 28.3% and 2 in 28.3%. Increased mGPS at the time of ICI initiation was associated with poorer OS and PFS in UVA, MVA, and Kaplan-Meier analyses.

Conclusion

The mGPS may be a useful prognostic tool in patients with mUC when treatment with ICI is under consideration. These results warrant a larger study for validation.

Implications for Practice

The ideal prognostic tool for use in a busy clinical practice is easy-to-use, cost-effective, and capable of accurately predicting clinical outcomes. There is currently no universally accepted risk score in metastatic urothelial cell carcinoma (mUC), particularly in the immunotherapy era. The modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS) incorporates albumin and C-reactive protein and may reflect underlying chronic inflammation, a known risk factor for resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This study found that baseline mGPS is associated with survival outcomes in patients with mUC treated with ICIs and may help clinicians to prognosticate for their patients beginning immunotherapy.
Evaluation of poly(vinylidene fluoride)/carbon black composites, manufactured by selective laser sintering
Authors: Brito Guaricela Joffre Luis , Ahrens Carlos Henrique , de Oliveira Barra Guilherme Mariz , Merlini Claudia
Published: February 2021

In this study, we investigated the viability of processing composites based on poly(vinylidene fluoride) and carbon black (PVDF/CB) applying the selective laser sintering (SLS) process, with equipment constructed in the laboratory. In the first step, the powder particles of PVDF and CB were characterized by scanning electron microscope, particle size distribution, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. In order to evaluate the effect of CB on the morphology, electrical conductivity, and mechanical properties, specimens of PVDF/CB composites with different weight fractions (wt%) were manufactured. The addition of conductive CB to the PVDF matrix improves the mechanical properties up to a certain point, with fractions greater than 1.00 wt% of CB resulting in a decrease in the mechanical properties of the composite. For the composite with 0.5 wt% of CB the electrical conductivity was around 10−4 S/cm, representing an increase of approximately 10 orders of magnitude when compared to the neat PVDF (3.41 x 10−15 S/cm). In addition, increases of 59% for the elastic modulus and 150% for the maximum stress were observed when compared to the corresponding values for neat PVDF. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the potential for the use of PVDF/CB composites as a raw material to produce functional components by the SLS process.
Application of the metabolomics approach to the discovery of active compounds from Brazilian trees against resistant human melanoma cells
Authors: Kato Natália Naomi , Stavis Vanessa Katherinne , Boaretto Amanda Galdi , Castro David Tsuyoshi Hiramatsu , Alves Flávio Macedo , de Picoli Souza Kely , dos Santos Edson Lucas , Silva Denise Brentan , Carollo Carlos Alexandre
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The chemical diversity of plants plays an essential role in the development of new drugs. However, new bioactive compound identification and isolation are challenging due to the complexity and time‐consuming nature of the traditional process. Recently, alternative strategies have become popular, such as the statistical approach to correlate compounds with biological activities, overcoming bottlenecks in bioactive natural product research.

Objective

We aimed to determine bioactive compounds against resistant human melanoma cells from leaves of Aspidosperma subincanum, Copaifera langsdorffii, Coussarea hydrangeifolia, Guarea guidonea and Tapirira guianensis, using a metabolomics approach.

Material and Methods

The extracts and fractions were obtained by accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) and tested against resistant melanoma cells SK‐MEL‐28 and SK‐MEL‐103. Chemical analysis was performed by high‐performance diode array detector tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐DAD‐MS/MS). Chemical and biological data were analysed through univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

The species present high chemical diversity, including indole alkaloids, glycosylated flavonoids, galloylquinic acid derivatives, cinnamic acid derivatives, and terpenes. The ASE fractionation separated the compounds according to the physicochemical properties; only C. langsdorffii and T. guianensis extracts were active. Both results from the chemical profile and the biological assay were treated using a metabolomics approach to identify the contribution of different classes of secondary metabolites in the viability of human melanoma cells. The analyses showed the metabolites from C. langsdorffii and T. guianensis, such as polyphenols and terpenes, were the main compounds correlated with the biological response.

Conclusion

These findings afford alternative pathways that are trustworthy and less time‐consuming to identify new bioactive compounds against multidrug‐resistant human melanoma cells.
In situ encapsulation of praziquantel through methyl methacrylate/diethylaminoethyl methacrylate and MMA/DMAEMA miniemulsion copolymerizations in presence of distinct ionic surfactants
Authors: Alves Jéssica Bentes , Franckini Paiva Thamiris , Salim Vera Martins , Conceição Ferraz Helen , Pinto José Carlos
Published: February 2021

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that affects primarily the poorest and most vulnerable populations. Although praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug used most frequently for treatment of schistosomiasis, PZQ presents unpleasant bitter taste and low solubility in water, which prejudice the implementation of pediatric treatments. For this reason, the main purpose of the present work was the production of stable nanoparticles loaded with PZQ through in situ miniemulsion copolymerizations of methyl methacrylate (MMA) with diethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DEAEMA) or dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA). Due to the cationic nature of the comonomers, the use of different ionic surfactants was also investigated. Nanoparticles with narrow particle size distributions, characteristic average diameters ranging from 50 nm to 110 nm, and loaded with 20 wt% of PZQ were manufactured successfully PZQ encapsulation efficiencies were higher than 97 wt% and PZQ was homogeneously dispersed in the final polymer matrix. Finally, the use of a cationic surfactant with DEAEMA cationic comonomer led to more stable latexes because of the high absolute value of the zeta potential.
Proteomic profiling of human uterine extracellular vesicles reveal dynamic regulation of key players of embryo implantation and fertility during menstrual cycle
Authors: Rai Alin , Poh Qi Hui , Fatmous Monique , Fang Haoyun , Gurung Shanti , Vollenhoven Beverley , Salamonsen Lois A. , Greening David W.
Published: February 2021

Endometrial extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as important players in reproductive biology. However, how their proteome is regulated throughout the menstrual cycle is not known. Such information can provide novel insights into biological processes critical for embryo development, implantation, and successful pregnancy. Using mass spectrometry‐based quantitative proteomics, we show that small EVs (sEVs) isolated from uterine lavage of fertile women (UL‐sEV), compared to infertile women, are laden with proteins implicated in antioxidant activity (SOD1, GSTO1, MPO, CAT). Functionally, sEVs derived from endometrial cells enhance antioxidant function in trophectoderm cells. Moreover, there was striking enrichment of invasion‐related proteins (LGALS1/3, S100A4/11) in fertile UL‐sEVs in the secretory (estrogen plus progesterone‐driven, EP) versus proliferative (estrogen‐driven, E) phase, with several players downregulated in infertile UL‐sEVs. Consistent with this, sEVs from EP‐ versus E‐primed endometrial epithelial cells promote invasion of trophectoderm cells. Interestingly, UL‐sEVs from fertile versus infertile women carry known players/predictors of embryo implantation (PRDX2, IDHC), endometrial receptivity (S100A4, FGB, SERPING1, CLU, ANXA2), and implantation success (CAT, YWHAE, PPIA), highlighting their potential to inform regarding endometrial status/pregnancy outcomes. Thus, this study provides novel insights into proteome reprograming of sEVs and soluble secretome in uterine fluid, with potential to enhance embryo implantation and hence fertility.
Bandgaps in free‐standing monolayer TiO2: Ab initio diffusion quantum Monte Carlo study
Authors: Huang Xia , Zhang Hong , Cheng Xin‐Lu
Published: February 2021

In this study, bandgap of the two‐dimensional (2D) TiO2, a transition‐metal oxide, was obtained by the diffusion Monte Carlo (DMC) method for the first time. This genuine 2D monolayer material that includes transition elements has been proven to be very challenging for reliable prediction of the bandgap. In order to improve the description of correlation effects, the DMC method was used to calculate the bandgaps of 2D‐TiO2 in α‐ and β‐phases, and the obtained results were compared with the density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The DMC results obtained from the infinite periodic superlattices predict ∆f of the 2D‐TiO2 in the α‐ and β‐phases to be about 5.54(4) and 5.69(2) eV, respectively, indicating that the available DFT results significantly underestimated the bandgaps of 2D‐TiO2 nanosheets. Considering the recently reported linear scaling relationship between the bandgap ∆f and the exciton binding energy ∆e of 2D semiconductors, (∆e ≈ 0.28∆f), the optical bandgap ∆o was further predicted to be ~3.99 eV for the α‐phase TiO2, and it is consistent with the experimental value (~3.84 eV). The successful application of the quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) method on the 2D‐TiO2 systems implies that QMC may serve as a feasible tool to investigate the electronic properties of the freestanding 2D transition‐metal oxides.
Hematopoietic Stem Cell- and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived CAR-NK Cells as Reliable Cell-Based Therapy Solutions
Authors: Arias Jonathan , Yu Jingwei , Varshney Mukesh , Inzunza Jose , Nalvarte Ivan
Published: February 2021

Hematopoietic stem cell- (HSC) and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived natural killer (NK) cells containing engineered functions, such as chimeric antigen receptors (CAR), offer great promise for the treatment of seemingly incurable oncological malignancies. Today, some of the main challenges of CAR cell-based therapeutics are the long manufacturing time and safety of the cell sources used. Additional challenges include avoiding graft vs host disease (GVHD) and cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Here, we show compelling evidence for the use of NK cell therapeutics as a reliable off-the-shelf option, as they address key issues. Furthermore, we highlight how iPS cells and directed differentiation toward HSC and NK cells address industrial scalability and safety.
Research on Parameters Optimization of High Voltage Circuit Breaker Nozzle Based on Image Recognition and Deep Learning
Authors: Jianying Zhong , Zhijun Wang , Bo Zhang , Yongqi Yao , Yapei Liu
Published: February 2021

Traditional modeling and optimization methods for high voltage equipment, specially, circuit breaker components and nozzles, require manual testing and improvement of a large number of parameters, and the efficiency is relatively low. The strong processing power of artificial intelligence technology in the identification and prediction of complex systems is an effective solution in such case. This paper presents the optimization approach of image recognition combined with deep learning for circuit breaker nozzle. The nozzle model was conducted using the high Mach flow model in a commercial software (COMSOL Multiphysics 5.4) to study the gas flow state and behavior during cold flow, and obtains Shock wave image recognition model of the nozzle chamber based on the convolutional neural network (CNN) method of multiscale layered features. On the basis of effective image recognition, combined with deep learning Convolutional Recurrent Neural Network (CRNN), the image sequence under different parameters is sent to the convolutional layer for feature extraction, and then the feature map is input into the loop. The prediction sequence is obtained through the layer, and finally the relationship between the kinematic parameters of the nozzle and the internal gas flow state is predicted through the prediction layer. Results indicated, according to the prediction of CRNN, the range of the throat length should be between 7 and 13 mm and the angle should be between 8 ∼ 15°. The presented method could be also used for similar materials and components, with certain universality. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.