bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cationic FeII Triplex‐Forming Metallohelices as DNA Bulge Binders
Authors: Hrabina Ondrej , Malina Jaroslav , Scott Peter , Brabec Viktor
Published: October 2020

Bulges are essential structural elements in nucleic acids. The detection and targeting of bulged DNA sequences are highly important. Small molecules capable of targeting DNA bulges have attracted considerable attention because they cannot only be used as reagents for bulge recognition, but also as potential therapeutic drugs. Herein, the interactions of DNA duplexes, containing bulges of various sizes and base compositions, with a series of FeII triplex‐forming metallohelices are reported. The results obtained, with the aid of molecular biophysics methods, show that the investigated metallohelices prefer to bind to bulged DNA, rather than double‐stranded DNA, and that their binding affinities towards bulges differ among individual metallohelices. Moreover, their binding affinities towards bulges strongly depend on the bulge size and the base composition of the bulge loop. The investigated metallohelices can enter eukaryotic cells and accumulate in the cell nucleus, allowing them to interact with nucleic acids. Hence, it is reasonable to suggest that the interaction of metallohelices with nucleic acid bulges might contribute to the mechanism of their biological activity.
Effect of Secondary Structure and Side Chain Length of Hydrophobic Amino Acid Residues on the Antimicrobial Activity and Toxicity of 14‐Residue‐Long de novo AMPs
Authors: Pandit Gopal , Chowdhury Nabarupa , Abdul Mohid Sk. , Bidkar Anil P. , Bhunia Anirban , Chatterjee Sunanda
Published: October 2020

Herein we report the efficacy and toxicity of three de novo designed cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) LL‐14, VV‐14 and ββ‐14, where side chains of the hydrophobic amino acids were reduced gradually. The AMPs showed broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity against three pathogens from the ESKAPE group and two fungal strains. This study showed that side chains which are either too long or too short increase toxicity and lower antimicrobial activity, respectively. VV‐14 was found to be non‐cytotoxic and highly potent under physiological salt concentrations against several pathogens, especially Salmonella typhi TY2. These AMPs acted via membrane deformation, depolarization, and lysis. The activity of the AMPs is related to their ability to take on amphipathic helical conformations in the presence of microbial membrane mimics. Among AMPs with the same charge, hydrophobic interactions between the side chains of the residues with cell membrane lipids determine their antimicrobial potency and cytotoxicity. Strikingly, an optimum hydrophobic interaction is the crux of generating highly potent non‐cytotoxic AMPs.
Assessment of lung cancer risk factors and mortality in Qatar: A case series study
Authors: Abdel‐Salam Abdel‐Salam G. , Mollazehi Mohammad , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar , Malki Ahmed M. , Shi Zumin , Zayed Hatem
Published: October 2020

Background

The global burden of cancer has exponentially increased over the last few years. In 2018 alone, approximately more than half of the 18.1 million individuals who had cancer succumbed to it. Lung cancer cases and fatalities are particularly on the rise. Therefore, exploring the factors surrounding lung cancer mortality is of utmost importance.

Aims

We investigate the clinicopathological and epidemiological characteristics of patients with lung cancer undergoing treatments, and their 5‐year survival rates from a case series study in Qatar.

Methods and Results

All patients' data (between January 2010 and December 2014) in this case series study were retrieved from Al‐Amal Hospital database. Kaplan‐Meier survival plots, life tables and Cox regression were utilized for the statistical analysis. A total of 229 lung cancer patients were included in this study; of which 23.6% are Qatari (40 males and 14 females) and 76.4% non‐Qatari (133 males and 42 females). Approximately 57.6% of our patients received at least one type of treatment. We observe a 5‐year survival rate of 9.4% in our patient cohort. We also observe other predictive factors, such as distant metastasis (adjusted hazards ratio, HR = 2.414, 95% CI: 1.035‐5.632), smoking status (adjusted HR = 3.909, 95% CI: 1.664‐9.180) and the treatment history (adjusted HR = 0.432, 95% CI: 0.270‐0.691), to be significant.

Conclusion

Lung cancer is a prevalent health condition in Qatar, particularly owing to the rising use of tobacco in the country. The survival rate for lung cancer patients in this country is lower, compared to the global average. Moreover, several factors such as distant metastasis, smoking status, and treatment history are associated with lung cancer survival in Qatar.
A Review on Drug‐Induced Nephrotoxicity: Pathophysiological Mechanisms, Drug Classes, Clinical Management, and Recent Advances in Mathematical Modeling and Simulation Approaches
Authors: Mody Hardik , Ramakrishnan Vidya , Chaar Maher , Lezeau Jovin , Rump Adrian , Taha Kareem , Lesko Lawrence , Ait‐Oudhia Sihem
Published: October 2020

A variety of marketed drugs belonging to various therapeutic classes are known to cause nephrotoxicity. Nephrotoxicity can manifest itself in several forms depending on the specific site involved as well as the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. As they often coexist with other pathophysiological conditions, the steps that can be taken to treat them are often limited. Thus, drug‐induced nephrotoxicity remains a major clinical challenge. Prior knowledge of risk factors associated with special patient populations and specific classes of drugs, combined with early diagnosis, therapeutic drug monitoring with dose adjustments, as well as timely prospective treatments are essential to prevent and manage them better. Most incident drug‐induced renal toxicity is reversible only if diagnosed at an early stage and treated promptly. Hence, diagnosis at an early stage is the need of the hour to counter it. Significant recent advances in the identification of novel early biomarkers of nephrotoxicity are not beyond limitations. In such a scenario, mathematical modeling and simulation (M&S) approaches may help to better understand and predict toxicities in a clinical setting. This review summarizes pathophysiological mechanisms of drug‐induced nephrotoxicity, classes of nephrotoxic drugs, management, prevention, and diagnosis in clinics. Finally, it also highlights some of the recent advancements in mathematical M&S approaches that could be used to better understand and predict drug‐induced nephrotoxicity.
Traits discovery in Hordeum vulgare sbsp. spontaneum accessions and in lines derived from interspecific crosses with wild Hordeum species for enhancing barley breeding efforts
Authors: Rehman Sajid , Amouzoune Mariam , Hiddar Houda , Aberkane Hafid , Benkirane Rachid , Filali‐Maltouf Abdelkarim , Al‐Jaboobi Muamar , Acqbouch Leila , Tsivelikas Athanasios , Verma Ramesh Pal Singh , Kehel Zakaria , Birouk Ahmed , Amri Ahmed
Published: October 2020

Barley is a crop of global significance with multiple uses (feed, food and beverages), but its productivity worldwide is limited by several abiotic and biotic stresses. Crop wild relatives, exclusively, Hordeum vulgare ssp. spontaneum and H. bulbosum, are important genetic resources needed to develop new adapted varieties. A total of 117 accessions of H. spontaneum from different origins and 145 lines derived from crosses between barley and H. bulbosum supplied by NordGen were evaluated for field reactions to four major diseases. In addition, a set of 45 lines derived from interspecific crosses with H. spontaneum and H. bulbosum along with 10 checks were evaluated for agronomic traits and yield performance under four different environmental conditions and for quality attributes. The results showed that 37.7%, 71.6%, 15.1%, and 79.5% of H. spontaneum accessions were resistant to moderately resistant to net form net blotch, scald, leaf rust and powdery mildew, respectively, while the respective percentages in case of H. bulbosum derivatives were 31%, 20.4%, 17.9% and 70.6%. Only three accessions of H. spontaneum showed high resistance levels to the four diseases while 23 other accessions and 16 H. bulbosum derived lines showed resistance to a combination of two to four diseases. When H. bulbosum and H. spontaneum derived lines were evaluated under different environments, none of them gave higher grain yield and higher thousand kernel weight than the best checks. However, a few H. bulbosum derived lines showed higher straw yield, and lines combining tall stature, and lodging resistance were identified. Pre‐breeding efforts need to be strengthened further by evaluating more wild Hordeum accessions, their crossing with the best available parents and selection of elite germplasm to be made available to barley breeding programs for the development of new adapted and high yielding varieties.
Testing venous carbohydrate‐deficient transferrin or capillary phosphatidylethanol with concurrent ethyl glucuronide and ethyl palmitate hair tests to assess historical and recent alcohol use
Authors: Tsanaclis Lolita , Davies Marie , Bevan Sian , Nutt James , Bagley Kim , Wicks John
Published: October 2020

Hair biomarkers, ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl palmitate (EtPa), together with blood biomarker tests, carbohydrate‐deficient transferrin (CDT) or phosphatidylethanol (PEth), are commonly used in identifying patterns of alcohol consumption as they possess different windows of detection. The detection of EtG in hair samples is mainly used in combination with EtPa when hair cosmetic treatments such as hair colouring and bleaching affect EtG levels. The main purpose of our study was to investigate the differences in frequency distribution of positive CDT and PEth results indicating alcohol had been used, when EtG and EtPa were not detected, where evidence of abstinence is paramount. Of the total 602 cases, for 179 (29.7%), neither EtG nor EtPa markers were detected. Of these, 0.5% of the cases produced positive CDT. However, 18.6% produced positive PEth, a significantly higher proportion. A similar pattern emerges when results are evaluated according to whether hair had been either cosmetically treated or untreated. When hair was untreated, one case produced positive CDT, and 19.3% were positive for PEth (median of 51 ng/ml). No cases of positive CDT results, but 20.8% of PEth were positive (median of 106.5 ng/ml) when hair samples had been cosmetically treated. Whether EtG or EtPa markers were detected or not, significantly higher proportions of PEth than CDT were seen. The results of this study substantiate the case for using hair EtG in conjunction with a PEth test, rather than CDT test, for efficient monitoring of recent and historical alcohol consumption.
Incidence of congestive heart failure in rheumatoid arthritis: a review of literature and meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Khalid Yaser , Dasu Neethi , Shah Ankit , Brown Keith , Kaell Alan , Levine Adam , Dasu Kirti , Raminfard Albert
Published: October 2020

Aims

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory autoimmune disorder that not only affects peripheral joints but also increases the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. Heart failure (HF) appears to be one of the most important contributors to the excess mortality risk among patients with RA. We assessed the incidence of HF in patients with RA compared with age‐matched and sex‐matched non‐RA subjects, after accounting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors and clinical ischemic heart disease.

Methods and results

We performed an aggregate analysis on three studies of RA patients having listed manifestations of HF. We performed a meta‐regression analysis to evaluate the incidence of HF in RA patients with increased age and noted for any gender correlation. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using both fixed‐effects and random‐effects models. In the cumulative analysis of 5, 220, 883 patients, the incidence of HF was noted to be almost two‐fold higher in patients with RA compared with a matched control population (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.22–2.60, P < 0.003), HTN (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.24–2.23, P < 0.001), and diabetes (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.36–1.81, P < 0.001). Women had three‐fold higher incidence of HF with RA (OR 3.38, 95% CI 2.59–4.40, P < 0.001). On meta‐regression, the incidence of HF increased further with older age (coefficient = 0.12, P = 0.0004).

Conclusions

Our systematic review that included over 5 million subjects confirms the suspected increased incidence of HF in RA patients. Women have the greatest risk for HF. Our analysis advocates the need for updating the current guidelines to incorporate screening and preventive methods for HF in RA patients.
Optimization of load sharing for parallel compressors using a novel hybrid intelligent algorithm
Authors: Li Xia , Cui Tao , Huang Kun , Ma Xin
Published: October 2020

Compressor stations, which usually consist of multiple compressors in parallel, are installed to power natural gas travel in pipelines. Compressor station optimization, which should be expressed as a mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problem, makes economic sense for the entire gas transmission system. However, it has often been simplified as a nonlinear programming (NLP) or mixed integer linear programming (MILP) problem in previous research. Most of existing solutions are based on discretization and a genetic algorithm (GA). This paper addresses the general MINLP problem for compressor station optimization without simplification; a novel hybrid intelligent algorithm is proposed to solve this problem. The proposed algorithm, DWOA, leverages advantages of the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) and differential evolution (DE). The proposed algorithm can balance exploration and exploitation to find the global optimal solution. An approach to handling constraints is also presented, where the original problem model is reformulated to be continuous by expanding the flow rate range of the compressor. A case study is performed to illustrate the performance of this approach. Results show that the continuous reformulated model is easier to solve, and DWOA produces a satisfactory solution that differs from theoretical results by only 1.61%. In addition, DWOA demonstrates better accuracy and stability than WOA, DE, and DE‐WOA, another hybrid algorithm. Therefore, this solution has the potential to promote comprehensive compressor station optimization.
Physicochemical properties, texture, and probiotic survivability of oat‐based yogurt using aquafaba as a gelling agent
Authors: Raikos Vassilios , Juskaite Lina , Vas Frazer , Hayes Helen E.
Published: October 2020

Despite high consumer demands, the manufacture of nondairy yogurt from oat milk is currently hindered due to the lack of consistency and texture. An oat‐based yogurt was developed using oat milk and probiotics (Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus) with aquafaba (AF) and vegetable oil (VO) as added ingredients. Physicochemical analyses and viability of probiotics were investigated after yogurt formation and for 3 weeks under refrigerated storage. Results showed that adding AF decreased syneresis and increased water holding capacity during storage. Both AF and VO had a beneficial effect on hardness, the most important textural property of yogurt. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that the added ingredients played a major role in the formation of the gel network structure of the yogurt. Both Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus remained at acceptable levels > 8.28 Log CFU/g and > 5.79 Log CFU/g after 3 weeks at 4°C regardless of the added ingredients.
Donor Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Alters Gut Microbiota and Metabolites in Obese Individuals With Steatohepatitis
Authors: Witjes Julia J. , Smits Loek P. , Pekmez Ceyda T. , Prodan Andrei , Meijnikman Abraham S. , Troelstra Marian A. , Bouter Kristien E.C. , Herrema Hilde , Levin Evgeni , Holleboom Adriaan G. , Winkelmeijer Maaike , Beuers Ulrich H. , van Lienden Krijn , Aron‐Wisnewky Judith , Mannisto Ville , Bergman Jacques J. , Runge Jurgen H. , Nederveen Aart J. , Dragsted Lars O. , Konstanti Prokopis , Zoetendal Erwin G. , de Vos Willem , Verheij Joanne , Groen Albert K. , Nieuwdorp Max
Published: October 2020

The intestinal microbiota has been linked to the development and prevalence of steatohepatitis in humans. Interestingly, steatohepatitis is significantly lower in individuals taking a plant‐based, low‐animal‐protein diet, which is thought to be mediated by gut microbiota. However, data on causality between these observations in humans is scarce. In this regard, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) using healthy donors is safe and is capable of changing microbial composition in human disease. We therefore performed a double‐blind randomized controlled proof‐of‐principle study in which individuals with hepatic steatosis on ultrasound were randomized to two study arms: lean vegan donor (allogenic n = 10) or own (autologous n = 11) FMT. Both were performed three times at 8‐week intervals. A liver biopsy was performed at baseline and after 24 weeks in every subject to determine histopathology (Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Clinical Research Network) classification and changes in hepatic gene expression based on RNA sequencing. Secondary outcome parameters were changes in intestinal microbiota composition and fasting plasma metabolomics. We observed a trend toward improved necro‐inflammatory histology, and found significant changes in expression of hepatic genes involved in inflammation and lipid metabolism following allogenic FMT. Intestinal microbial community structure changed following allogenic FMT, which was associated with changes in plasma metabolites as well as markers of . Conclusion: Allogenic FMT using lean vegan donors in individuals with hepatic steatosis shows an effect on intestinal microbiota composition, which is associated with beneficial changes in plasma metabolites and markers of steatohepatitis.
Non‐local means improves total‐variation constrained photoacoustic image reconstruction
Authors: Yalavarthy Phaneendra K. , Kalva Sandeep Kumar , Pramanik Manojit , Prakash Jaya
Published: October 2020

Photoacoustic/Optoacoustic tomography aims to reconstruct maps of the initial pressure rise induced by the absorption of light pulses in tissue. This reconstruction is an ill‐conditioned and under‐determined problem, when the data acquisition protocol involves limited detection positions. The aim of the work is to develop an inversion method which integrates denoising procedure within the iterative model‐based reconstruction to improve quantitative performance of optoacoustic imaging. Among the model‐based schemes, total‐variation (TV) constrained reconstruction scheme is a popular approach. In this work, a two‐step approach was proposed for improving the TV constrained optoacoustic inversion by adding a non‐local means based filtering step within each TV iteration. Compared to TV‐based reconstruction, inclusion of this non‐local means step resulted in signal‐to‐noise ratio improvement of 2.5 dB in the reconstructed optoacoustic images.
N2NSR‐OCT: Simultaneous denoising and super‐resolution in optical coherence tomography images using semisupervised deep learning
Authors: Qiu Bin , You Yunfei , Huang Zhiyu , Meng Xiangxi , Jiang Zhe , Zhou Chuanqing , Liu Gangjun , Yang Kun , Ren Qiushi , Lu Yanye
Published: October 2020

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging shows a significant potential in clinical routines due to its noninvasive property. However, the quality of OCT images is generally limited by inherent speckle noise of OCT imaging and low sampling rate. To obtain high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and high‐resolution (HR) OCT images within a short scanning time, we presented a learning‐based method to recover high‐quality OCT images from noisy and low‐resolution OCT images. We proposed a semisupervised learning approach named N2NSR‐OCT, to generate denoised and super‐resolved OCT images simultaneously using up‐ and down‐sampling networks (U‐Net (Semi) and DBPN (Semi)). Additionally, two different super‐resolution and denoising models with different upscale factors (2× and 4×) were trained to recover the high‐quality OCT image of the corresponding down‐sampling rates. The new semisupervised learning approach is able to achieve results comparable with those of supervised learning using up‐ and down‐sampling networks, and can produce better performance than other related state‐of‐the‐art methods in the aspects of maintaining subtle fine retinal structures.
Immunofluorescence and histopathological assessment using ex vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy in lichen planus
Authors: Bağcı Işın Sinem , Aoki Rui , Krammer Sebastian , Vladimirova Gabriela , Ruzicka Thomas , Sárdy Miklós , French Lars E. , Hartmann Daniela
Published: October 2020

Ex vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) provides rapid, high‐resolution imaging, fluorescence detection and digital haematoxylin–eosin (H&E)‐like staining. We aimed to assess the performance of ex vivo CLSM in identifying histomorphology and immunoreactivity in lichen planus (LP) and comparing its accuracy with conventional histopathology and direct immunofluorescence (DIF). Thirty‐three sections of 17 LP patients stained with acridine orange (AO) and FITC‐labelled anti‐fibrinogen antibody and 21 control samples stained with AO were examined using ex vivo CLSM. Ex vivo CLSM was in perfect agreement with conventional histopathology in identifying interface dermatitis, vacuolar degeneration and band‐like infiltration. ROC analysis showed that the presence of vacuolar degeneration, interface dermatitis and band‐like infiltration was useful to distinguish LP sections from controls (p < .0001). The detection rates of fibrinogen deposition using DIF and in conclusion ex vivo CLSM were 93.8% and 62.5%, respectively. ex vivo CLSM enables histopathological and immunofluorescence examination in LP with the advantage of digital H&E‐like staining.
Recent progress and challenges on the bioassay of pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Babaie Parinaz , Saadati Arezoo , Hasanzadeh Mohammad
Published: October 2020

The present review (containing 242 references) illustrates the importance and application of optical and electrochemical methods as well as their performance improvement using various methods for the detection of pathogenic bacteria. The application of advanced nanomaterials including hyper branched nanopolymers, carbon‐based materials and silver, gold and so on. nanoparticles for biosensing of pathogenic bacteria was also investigated. In addition, a summary of the applications of nanoparticle‐based electrochemical biosensors for the identification of pathogenic bacteria has been provided and their advantages, detriments and future development capabilities was argued. Therefore, the main focus in the present review is to investigate the role of nanomaterials in the development of biosensors for the detection of pathogenic bacteria. In addition, type of nanoparticles, analytes, methods of detection and injection, sensitivity, matrix and method of tagging are also argued in detail. As a result, we have collected electrochemical and optical biosensors designed to detect pathogenic bacteria, and argued outstanding features, research opportunities, potential and prospects for their development, according to recently published research articles.
Relationship of Edoxaban Plasma Concentration and Blood Coagulation in Healthy Volunteers Using Standard Laboratory Tests and Viscoelastic Analysis
Authors: Havrdová Martina , Saari Teijo I. , Jalonen Jouko , Peltoniemi Marko , Kurkela Mika , Vahlberg Tero , Tienhaara Anri , Backman Janne T. , Olkkola Klaus T. , Schramko Alexey
Published: October 2020

The capability of viscoelastic measurement parameters to screen anticoagulation activity of edoxaban in relation to its plasma concentrations was evaluated in 15 healthy male volunteers. Blood samples were drawn before the oral administration of edoxaban 60 mg and 2, 4, 6, 8, and 24 hours after administration. At each time, standard coagulation tests were performed, blood viscoelastic properties were measured with a thromboelastometry device ROTEM delta analyzer (Instrumentation Laboratory, Werfen, Barcelona, Spain), and edoxaban plasma concentrations were measured. Our primary interest was the possible correlation between edoxaban plasma concentrations and values for ROTEM ExTEM, and FibTEM. We also studied the correlation of edoxaban plasma concentrations with the results of standard coagulation tests. We saw the effect of a single dose of edoxaban most clearly in clotting time (CT) of ROTEM ExTEM and FibTEM. Changes in these parameters correlated significantly with edoxaban plasma concentrations up to 6 hours from the ingestion of the drug. Activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, and anti–factor Xa were also affected. Peak changes were observed 2 and 4 hours after administration of edoxaban. The changes were mostly reversed after 8 hours. In conclusion, ROTEM CT correlates significantly with edoxaban plasma concentrations and can be used to estimate the effect of edoxaban. ROTEM should be considered as part of the assessment of coagulation, with the big advantage of being readily available on site.
Molecular (moment‐to‐moment) and molar (aggregate) analyses of behavior
Authors: Shimp Charles P.
Published: October 2020

Ten meanings or usages of the terms molecular and molar analyses are based on (1) numbers of responses, (2) durations of activities, (3) levels, (4) scales, (5) contiguity versus correlation, (6) behavioral standards, (7) function with or without structure, (8) local versus global phenomena, and (9) control by shaping of sequential moment‐to‐moment behavior. These usages reveal divisive viewpoints along with ambiguities in the Law of Effect, the definition of an operant, response strength, response probability, random behavior, time allocation, shaping, controlled versus uncontrolled operants, and roles for ordinary language. Usage 10 is less divisive and combines, and in that sense unifies, molecular behavior, defined as shaped moment‐to‐moment sequential behaving, and molar, defined as averages of aggregates of those shaped responses. It combines shaping, that establishes and changes operant behaviors, and strengthening that changes the amounts of those shaped behaviors. I conclude that general behavioral theory will combine strengthening with such methods as parametric, hybrid, or nonparametric shaping, and will use computational methods to simulate moment‐to‐moment behavior streams from which any aggregates of theoretical interest may be computed. Such a synthesis may not require different levels, scales, or new scientific paradigms.
Social discounting of pain
Authors: Story Giles W. , Kurth‐Nelson Zeb , Crockett Molly , Vlaev Ivo , Darzi Ara , Dolan Raymond J.
Published: October 2020

Impatience can be formalized as a delay discount rate, describing how the subjective value of reward decreases as it is delayed. By analogy, selfishness can be formalized as a social discount rate, representing how the subjective value of rewarding another person decreases with increasing social distance. Delay and social discount rates for reward are correlated across individuals. However no previous work has examined whether this relationship also holds for aversive outcomes. Neither has previous work described a functional form for social discounting of pain in humans. This is a pertinent question, since preferences over aversive outcomes formally diverge from those for reward. We addressed this issue in an experiment in which healthy adult participants (N = 67) chose the timing and intensity of hypothetical pain for themselves and others. In keeping with previous studies, participants showed a strong preference for immediate over delayed pain. Participants showed greater concern for pain in close others than for their own pain, though this hyperaltruism was steeply discounted with increasing social distance. Impatience for pain and social discounting of pain were weakly correlated across individuals. Our results extend a link between impatience and selfishness to the aversive domain.
Recovery of hematocrit and fat deposits varies by cage size in food‐restricted captive red crossbills (Loxia curvirostra)
Authors: Bradley Dawson C. , Wurtz Megan , Cornelius Jamie M.
Published: October 2020

Hematocrit—or the percent volume of red blood cells in whole blood—is thought to fluctuate adaptively in response to changing oxygen demands that occur during different life activities and in different environments. Because red blood cells are made from materials that can be limiting, however, it is thought that hematocrit may also reflect general body condition and access to resources. We tested the effect of hydration state, resource restriction (i.e., time available to forage), and activity (i.e., different cage sizes) on hematocrit in captive red crossbills (Loxia curvirostra). We found no evidence that a mild dehydration protocol impacts hematocrit and only weak support that mild food restriction impacts hematocrit. Food restriction did, however, reduce fat deposits and fat loss was more significant in birds that were also sampled for hematocrit. Furthermore, food‐restricted birds housed in flight aviaries recovered hematocrit but not fat stores following repeated blood sampling, whereas birds housed in small cages lost additional hematocrit but mitigated fat loss following successive bleeds. Together these results suggest that different flight demands may determine response to blood loss during food restriction, potentially revealing a trade‐off between fat storage and red blood cell development. Our results also demonstrate the need for scientists to carefully record hematocrit data and the time course across which multiple tubes of blood are collected to avoid confounding real patterns with variation generated by sampling protocol.
Construction, characterization, and antimicrobial evaluation of the novel heteroannulated chromeno[2′′,3′′:6′,5′]pyrido[2′,3′‐d] [1,3] thiazolo[3,2‐a]pyrimidines
Authors: Ibrahim Magdy A. , Al‐Harbi Sami A. , Allehyani Esam S.
Published: October 2020

The reaction of chromone‐3‐carbonitrile with thiobarbituric acid afforded 2‐thioxochromeno[3′,2′:5,6]pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidine‐4,6(1H,3H)‐dione, which utilized as a building block for construction of a novel heteroannulated compounds containing chromenopyridothiazolopyrimidine moiety. Reactions of the starting compound with a variety of bielectrophilic reagents namely; chloroacetonitrile, bromomalononitrile, 3‐chloropentanedione, ethyl 2‐chloro‐3‐oxobutanoate, phenacyl bromide, chloroacetic acid, dibromoethane, and oxalyl chloride afforded the first known chromenopyridothiazolopyrimidines. Cyclization of the starting compound with 2,3‐dichloroquinoxaline gave the linear hepta‐annulated chromenopyridopyrimidothiazoloquinoxaline. In addition, chromenopyridopyrimido thiazolopyrimidines were efficiently synthesized. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated for the prepared compounds and some of them seemed notable activity against the tested microorganisms. Analytical and spectral data confirmed the structures of the new products.
Intrafraction cone beam computed tomography verification of breath hold during liver stereotactic radiation therapy
Authors: Brown Elizabeth , Muscat Erika , O’Connor Patrick , Liu Howard , Lee Yoo‐Young , Pryor David
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Intrafraction imaging is an Elekta feature that enables cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) acquisition simultaneously with treatment arc delivery. It has facilitated the introduction of breath‐hold (BH) gated stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) by enabling visualisation of tumour and organs at risk during treatment. The aims of this study were to assess BH reproducibility and use intrafraction CBCT (IF‐CBCT) to quantify any variation in diaphragm position (diaphragmatic feathering) during the multiple BHs performed during each arc.

Methods

IF‐CBCTs for consecutive liver SBRT patients where BH was achieved using the Elekta Active Breathing Control (ABC) system were retrospectively evaluated. Average intrafraction couch shifts for deep‐inspiration BH (DIBH) or end‐expiration BH (EEBH) were recorded as an indication of reproducibility. Diaphragmatic feathering was quantified by measuring the difference between the most superior and inferior visible edges of the diaphragm on IF‐CBCTs.

Results

A total of 212 images from 30 patients were reviewed. Twenty‐two (73.3%) patients were treated in EEBH. The mean intrafraction shift was similar between DIBH and EEBH groups with the largest mean shift of 0.22cm occurring in the superior–inferior direction. Mean diaphragmatic feathering was similar between the DIBH and EEBH groups, 0.09cm (0‐0.44cm) and 0.14cm (0–1.89cm) respectively. A higher percentage of EEBH patients demonstrated no diaphragmatic feathering throughout treatment compared with DIBH patients (31.8% vs 25%).

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that BH is reproducible in both DIBH and EEBH for liver SBRT treatment using the ABC system. Appropriate patient selection and BH coaching prior to CT simulation are critical to its success.
Optimal design for digital comparator using QCA nanotechnology with energy estimation
Authors: Sharma Vijay Kumar
Published: October 2020

Quantum‐dot cellular automata (QCA) is a transistor‐less technology to implement the nanoscale circuit designs. QCA circuits are fast, highly dense and dissipate less energy as compared to widely used complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology. In this paper, a novel structure for digital comparator using QCA nanotechnology is proposed. Digital comparator is a basic and important module in central processing unit which compares two binary numbers. The proposed digital comparator is optimal, single layered with 0.50 clock latency and containing only 26 QCA cells. The proposed digital comparator is compared for the different performance metrics with the existing digital comparators. The calculations for energy dissipation are provided using QCA Designer‐E and QCA Pro tools. The proposed coplanar digital comparator is designed with minimum QCA cells which reduces the total cell area, total covered area and cost. Total cell area, total covered area and cost for the proposed digital comparator are 0.008 μm2, 0.023 μm2 and 0.006 respectively. Results show that energy dissipation for the proposed design is very less therefore, proposed digital comparator is energy efficient.
Sustainable process improvements: Evidence from intervention‐based research
Authors: Anand Gopesh , Chandrasekaran Aravind , Sharma Luv
Published: October 2020

This research develops a methodology for making process improvements that can sustain over time. Working with caregivers at a large U.S. hospital over 3 years, we redesign a process for educating kidney transplant patients with instructions for post‐surgical care. Adopting an intervention‐based research (IBR) framework and based on our actions to overcome challenges in implementation and sustainment of the redesign, we revise the current understanding of organizational learning theory. Follow‐up observations after our intervention show that the process improvements at the hospital are sustained. We supplement the IBR with quantitative analyses and provide evidence of improvements in health outcomes and satisfaction levels of patients associated with the redesign. These analyses are based on difference‐in‐difference estimations using data from transplant patients, including a control group from other transplant units. Overall, our research specifies a methodology for implementing sustainable process improvements, particularly in high interaction service environments such as healthcare delivery, and identifies refinements to organizational learning theory, especially for such environments.
Formulation and characterization of catechin‐loaded proniosomes for food fortification
Authors: Shruthi Padma Aswath , Pushpadass Heartwin A , Magdaline Eljeeva Emerald Franklin , Surendra Nath Battula , Laxmana Naik Naik
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

To overcome the problems associated with niosomes, proniosomes – a dry powder – was prepared to nanoencapsulate catechins using Span 60 as surfactant, cholesterol as stabilizer and maltodextrin, lactose monohydrate and pullulan as wall materials. The proniosomes were made by the thin‐film hydration technique, and were characterized for fortification in milk beverages. Scanning and atomic force microscopic images showed the varying morphology and ultrastructure of the proniosomes. The mean hydrodynamic diameter of 193.57–262.52 nm, polydispersity index of 0.24–0.25 and zeta potential of −15.8 to −24.73 were suggestive of the size, homogeneity and stability of the catechin‐loaded proniosomes. X‐ray powder diffractograms and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra provided insight about the interaction between catechins and wall materials. Entrapment efficiency and in vitro release were calculated to determine the extent of nanoencapsulation of catechins and their bioavailability, respectively. The nanoencapsulates were fortified in milk and yogurt to find their organoleptic acceptability.

RESULTS

Moisture content was found to be 20–30 g kg−1, indicating longer stability of the proniosomes. Scanning electron microscopic and atomic force microscopic images revealed the ultrastructure and spherical‐shaped morphology of proniosomes. Entrapment efficiency of catechins using pullulan as wall material was as high as 83.43%. In vitro release studies revealed the sustained release of catechins from the proniosomes. FTIR and X‐ray diffraction spectra revealed the absence of chemical interactions between catechins and encapsulants.

CONCLUSION

Food‐grade proniosomes are a good vehicle for fortification of milk and yogurt without noticeable adverse changes in their organoleptic and physicochemical properties, thus increasing the potential for bioavailability of catechins in the gastrointestinal tract. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Opioid Prescribing Patterns Following Pediatric Tonsillectomy in the United States, 2009–2017
Authors: Qian Z. Jason , Alyono Jennifer C. , Jin Michael C. , Cooperman Shayna P. , Cheng Alan G. , Balakrishnan Karthik
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Assess national trends in opioid prescription following pediatric tonsillectomy: 1) overall percentage receiving opioids and mean quantity, 2) changes during 2009–2017, and 3) determinants of prescription patterns.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis using 2009–2017 Optum claims data to identify opioid‐naïve children aged 1–18 with claims codes for tonsillectomy (n = 82,842). Quantities of opioids filled in outpatient pharmacies during the perioperative period were extracted and converted into milligram morphine equivalents (MMEs) for statistical comparison. Demographic, clinical, and socioeconomic predictors of opioid fill rate and quantity were determined using regression analyses.

Results

In 2009, 83.3% of children received opioids, decreasing to 58.3% by 2017. Rates of all‐cause readmissions and post‐tonsillectomy hemorrhages were similar over time. Mean quantity received was 153.47MME (95% confidence intervals [95%CI]: 151.19, 155.76) and did not significantly change during 2009–2017. Opioids were more likely in older children and those with higher household income, but less likely in children with obstructive sleep apnea, other comorbidities, and Hispanic race. Higher quantities of opioids were more likely in older children, while lower quantities were associated with female sex, Hispanic race, and higher household income. Outpatient steroids were prescribed to 8.04% of patients, who were less likely to receive opioids.

Conclusion

While the percentage of children receiving post‐tonsillectomy opioids decreased during 2009–2017, prescribed quantities remain high and have not decreased over time. Prescription practices were also influenced by clinical and sociodemographic factors. These results highlight the need for guidance, particularly with regard to opioid quantity, in children after tonsillectomy.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 131:E1722–E1729, 2021
Demarcating the rainfed unproductive zones in the African Sahel and Great Green Wall regions
Authors: Elagib Nadir Ahmed , Khalifa Muhammad , Babker Zryab , Musa Ammar Ahmed , Fink Andreas H.
Published: October 2020

Farming and afforestation in the African Sahel and Great Green Wall (GGW) regions are constrained by climate variability, water scarcity, and degradation of lands. Yet, the debate on dynamics of the Saharan boundary and vegetation productivity in these regions is ongoing. Here, we trace the most unsuitable areas for rainfed agriculture and greening in the two regions over the period 1998–2017 without specifying a crop/vegetation type. A method is devised based on combining June–October rainfall/potential evapotranspiration (aridity index) and integrated normalized difference vegetation index (productivity index). The feasibility of the currently planned GGW is placed in the context of naturally‐sound afforestation. The results show certain features of the suitable zone for planting. A seasonal aridity index of 0.1 is a minimum threshold for vegetation vigour to begin. Given the strong interannual north–south progression and retreat of this seasonal level, the northernmost aridity isoline that dictates feasibility of rainfed productivity is found to correspond to the borderline between the arid and semiarid zones. This borderline is delimited by an average aridity index of 0.2. Accordingly, 1,337,535 km2 (43.5%) and 729,576 km2 (25.6%) of the Sahel and the proposed GGW region, respectively, are not feasible for sustainable planting, that is, under rainfed and natural land fertility conditions. About 93.0% of the impractical GGW area lies east of longitude 10°E. Investing in a green belt east of this longitude is risky without supplementary irrigation. The contrasting productivity behavior across the GGW cautions the progression in this project without rigorous feasibility investigation.
Hürthle cell neoplasms of the thyroid: Pathologic outcomes and ultrasonographic analysis
Authors: Shin Timothy J. , Rabbani Cyrus C. , Murthy Henna D. , Traylor Katie , Sim Michael W.
Published: October 2020

Background

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) of thyroid nodules suspicious for Hürthle cell neoplasms (HCN) have uncertain rate of malignancy. We aim to characterize rate and predictors of malignancy at our institution and compare these findings with established literature to help guide management.

Methods

Single tertiary‐referral center, retrospective study of 166 adults who underwent hemithyroidectomy or total thyroidectomy following FNA suspicious for HCN from 1998‐2018. Demographic information and surgical histopathologic results were collected. Preoperative ultrasonography was independently scored on the American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI‐RADS) by a board‐certified head and neck radiologist.

Results

There were 39 males and 127 females. Overall, 25 (15.1%) patients had carcinoma, with 15 (9%) being Hürthle cell carcinoma (HCC). Men had higher incidence of carcinoma (25.6% v. 11.8%, P = .035), and especially older males. Contralateral carcinoma was seen in 3 of 13 (23.1%) patients that underwent completion thyroidectomy. Patients with carcinoma had larger nodules (average diameter 3.3 cm versus 2.5 cm, respectively, P = .01), but no association with TI‐RADS.

Conclusion

Adults with nodules suspicious for HCN have significant risk of malignancy consistent with prior studies. Older males and larger nodule diameter are associated with malignancy in this cohort, but TI‐RADS grade is not. These findings provide a framework for management and counseling for lesions suspicious for HCN.
Deep Learning Based Recognition of Different Mode Bases in Ring‐Core Fiber
Authors: Wang Lulu , Ruan Zhengsen , Wang Hongya , Shen Lei , Zhang Lei , Luo Jie , Wang Jian
Published: October 2020

In fiber‐optic communications using diverse spatial modes for sustainable capacity scaling, the intelligent recognition of different mode bases is of great importance to enhance the flexiblity and compatibility of mode management. Here a convolutional neural network (CNN) model is introduced to recognize the four mode bases with the azimuthal index ℓ= 5, namely the LP5,1 mode group, the linearly and circularly polarized OAM±5,1 mode group, and the vector EH4,1 or HE6,1 mode group in a ring‐core fiber. A camera is first used to capture intensity profiles of mode bases as training and testing data sets of the neural network. The CNN‐based deep learning successfully recognizes different mode bases with an overall recognition rate of close to 100%. Furthermore, an alternative compact and cost‐effective approach is considered toward practical applications by replacing the camera with a photodetector (PD) array for intelligent mode bases recognition. A 1 × 5 PD array can perfectly recognize different mode bases with a recognition rate of close to 100%. Even a 1 × 2 PD array with only two PDs can obtain a high recognition rate of close to 93.3%. The demonstrations may open up new perspectives for deep learning enabled robust and intelligent optical communications exploiting spatial modes.
The Role of Formamidine Groups in Dextran Based Nonviral Vectors for Gene Delivery on Their Physicochemical and Biological Characteristics
Authors: Fischer Dagmar , Dusek Niels , Hotzel Konrad , Heinze Thomas
Published: October 2020

Dextran‐formamidine esters (dextran‐N‐[(dimethylamino)methylene]‐β‐alanine ester) with different degrees of substitution (0.45–0.92) are synthesized in an one‐pot reaction. Dextran (Mw 60 000 g mol−1) is allowed to react with unprotected beta‐alanine and iminium chloride and investigated regarding the potential as gene delivery system for the transfer of plasmid DNA. With degrees of substitution ≥ 0.63 improved DNA binding with formation of enzymatically stable complexes of about 130–160 nm with negative surface charges are obtained. These physicochemical characteristics correlated with increasing transfection rates in CHO‐K1 cells determined by a luciferase reporter gene assay in dependency of the number of formamidine residues, N/P ratios and amount of DNA. The role of the number of formamidine groups is also highlighted by in vitro cyto‐ and hemotoxicity tests under the chosen conditions. These results indicate that dextran‐formamidine esters are a very promising material for the safe and efficient gene delivery.
Halloysite Containing Thermoset Nanocomposites via Free Radical Photocrosslinking Polymerization
Authors: Turp Onur , Acar Seda Bekin , Ozdemir Kevser , Bouharras Fatima Ezzahra , Raihane Mustapha , Tasdelen Mehmet Atilla
Published: October 2020

Naturally occurring halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are first functionalized by 3‐(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate and then used as nanofillers in a mixture of difunctional methacrylates (triethylene glycol dimethacrylate and bisphenol A glycerolate dimethacrylate). Upon free radical photocrosslinking of this mixture enables the in situ preparation of HNT/thermoset nanocomposites. The covalent bonding of HNT in the thermoset matrix is proven by following characteristic bands of the mixture using Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, the presence and distribution of HNT in the nanocomposites are confirmed by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy observations. In addition, a mixed morphology containing agglomerated/nonagglomerated HNTs in the thermoset matrix is also determined. Both tensile strength and elasticity modulus of nanocomposites are dramatically increased with increase in HNT loading up to 4% ratio. On the other hand, these nanocomposites exhibit higher thermal properties compared to the neat thermoset.