bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the effect of dietary intake of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on trauma‐induced white matter injury with quantitative diffusion MRI in mice
Authors: Reyes Laura D. , Haight Thaddeus , Desai Abhishek , Chen Huazhen , Bosomtwi Asamoah , Korotcov Alexandru , Dardzinski Bernard , Kim Hee‐Yong , Pierpaoli Carlo
Published: August 2020

Previous studies suggest that long‐term supplementation and dietary intake of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may have neuroprotective effects following brain injury. The objective of this study was to investigate potential neuroprotective effects of omega‐3 PUFAs on white matter following closed‐head trauma. The closed‐head injury model of engineered rotational acceleration (CHIMERA) produces a reproducible injury in the optic tract and brachium of the superior colliculus in mice. Damage is detectable using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics, particularly fractional anisotropy (FA), with sensitivity comparable to histology. We acquired in vivo (n = 38) and ex vivo (n = 41) DTI data in mice divided into sham and CHIMERA groups with two dietary groups: one deficient in omega‐3 PUFAs and one adequate in omega‐3 PUFAs. We examined injury effects (reduction in FA) and neuroprotection (FA reduction modulated by diet) in the optic tract and brachium. We verified that diet did not affect FA in sham animals. In injured animals, we found significantly reduced FA in the optic tract and brachium (~10% reduction, p < 0.001), and Bayes factor analysis showed strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis. However, Bayes factor analysis showed substantial evidence to accept the null hypothesis of no diet‐related FA differences in injured animals in the in vivo and ex vivo samples. Our results indicate no neuroprotective effect from adequate dietary omega‐3 PUFA intake on white matter damage following traumatic brain injury. Since damage from CHIMERA mainly affects white matter, our results do not necessarily contradict previous findings showing omega‐3 PUFA‐mediated neuroprotection in gray matter.
How Does Art Viewing Inspires Creativity?
Authors: Ishiguro Chiaki , Okada Takeshi
Published: August 2020

Professional and amateur artists seek inspiration from viewing the works of others to enhance their creativity. This paper focuses on inspiration for artistic creation through art viewing by reviewing psychology studies on what types of artwork promote individuals’ inspiration for creation (inspiring artwork) and how they experience inspiration through their art appreciation (the appreciation process). In particular, we claim that a dual focus—that is a focus on both evaluating the artworks of others and reflecting on one's own art making—is a core mechanism for inspiration. Further, we present a theoretical framework to explain the types of creative outcomes expected in line with such a dual focus.
Nanopipette‐based electrochemical SERS platforms: Using electrodeposition to produce versatile and adaptable plasmonic substrates
Authors: Brasiliense Vitor , Park Ji Eun , Chen Zhu , Van Duyne Richard P. , Schatz George C.
Published: August 2020

A method for fabricating localized EC‐SERS probes based on nanopipettes and electrodeposition is described. Gold particles of fractal geometry with excellent SERS performance are produced, reliably and at low cost. By adapting the electrodeposition procedure, nanostructures of different sizes can be obtained, allowing the SERS platform to be tailored to many experimental configurations. In particular, by producing unique SERS platforms of dimensions comparable to the laser spot, quantitative comparison with electrochemical current is possible. By analyzing hundreds of samples, we thoroughly characterize the resulting geometry of the structures and their ability to enhance Raman signal, providing guidelines for the fabrication of optimized platforms. Control over the probes' surface potential also allows convenient modulation of surface‐analyte affinity and enable chemically unstable materials, such as Cu, to be reliably used. These are demonstrated by showing that Cu particles exposed to air can be easily re‐reduced, with no detriment in SERS performance.
Artichoke cv. Francés flower extract as a rennet substitute: effect on textural, microstructural, microbiological, antioxidant properties, and sensory acceptance of miniature cheeses
Authors: Colombo M Laura , Cimino Cecilia V , Bruno Mariela A , Hugo Ayelen , Liggieri Constanza , Fernández Agustina , Vairo‐Cavalli Sandra
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The most common milk‐clotting enzymes in the cheese industry are recombinant chymosins. Food naturalness is a factor underpinning consumers' food choice. For consumers who avoid food with ingredients from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), the use of vegetable‐based rennet substitute in the cheese formulation may be a suitable solution. Artichokes that deviate from optimal products, when allowed to bloom due to flower protease composition, are excellent as raw material for vegetable rennet preparation. As enzymatic milk clotting exerts a significant impact on the characteristics of the final product, this product should be studied carefully.

RESULTS

Mature flowers from unharvested artichokes (Cynara scolymus cv. Francés) that did not meet aesthetic standards for commercialization were collected and used to prepare a flower extract. This extract, as a coagulant preparation, enabled the manufacture of cheeses with distinctive characteristics compared with cheeses prepared with chymosin. Rennet substitution did not affect the actual yield but led to significant changes in dry matter yield, humidity, water activity, protein content, and color, and conferred antioxidant activity to the cheeses. The rennet substitution promoted significant modifications in springiness, and in the microstructure of the cheese, with a more porous protein matrix and an increment in the size of the fat globules. Both formulations showed a similar microbiota evolution pattern with excellent microbiological quality and good sensory acceptance.

CONCLUSIONS

The rennet substitute studied here produced a cheese adapted to specific market segments that demand more natural and healthier products made with a commitment to the environment but well accepted by a general cheese consumer. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics analysis of metabolites in commercial and inoculated pickles
Authors: Yun Lin , Mao Bingyong , Cui Shumao , Tang Xin , Zhang Hao , Zhao Jianxin , Chen Wei
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Starter cultures are nowadays more and more used to make inoculated pickles (IPs), but it remains unclear whether there are differences in flavors between IPs and naturally fermented pickles. In this study 16 commercial pickles (CPs) produced by spontaneous fermentation method were purchased from markets in Sichuan province and Chongqing. Ten strains of three lactic acid bacteria species – Lactobacillus plantarum, Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Pediococcus ethanolidurans – were selected as single starter cultures to produce IPs.

RESULTS

Differences in flavor components between the CPs and IPs were monitored using a combination of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and multivariate statistical methods. Higher levels of nonvolatile substances such as glucose, fructose, tagatose, sucrose, lactic acid and mannitol were detected in most IPs than in the CPs. The values of flavor characteristics such as sweetness, umami and astringency, which were correlated positively with consumers' overall preferences for pickles, were higher in the IPs than in the CPs. Volatile compounds such as geranyl acetate, dimethyl trisulfide, eucalyptol and linalool were distinguished as the main compounds that contributed to the flavor characteristics of the CPs. In addition to dimethyl trisulfide, dimethyl disulfide was also an odor contributor to the IPs.

CONCLUSIONS

The CPs and IPs had different flavor characteristics, especially in the composition and content of volatile components, and the inoculation method reflected some fermentation advantages, which could reduce the bitterness and increase umami and lead to a higher score of sensory preference. This will be helpful for industrial production. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Spatial Ecology and Resource Selection of Eastern Box Turtles
Authors: Harris Katie A. , Clark Joseph D. , Elmore R. Dwayne , Harper Craig A.
Published: August 2020

Eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) are widely distributed throughout the eastern United States. Although once common throughout much of its distribution, the species has experienced declines in local populations. Understanding resource selection is important for the conservation of this species; however, few data exist on resource selection for eastern box turtles in the southeastern United States. We estimated home range and resource selection for 100 individual turtles in the Blue Ridge, Ridge and Valley, and Cumberland Plateau and Mountains physiographic regions in Tennessee, USA, from 2016 to 2018. We used step‐selection functions to investigate eastern box turtle resource selection during May–August 2017 and May–August 2018 at 2 spatial scales. We classified vegetation type, measured vegetation composition and structure, recorded time since fire, and measured coarse woody debris abundance at 1,225 used telemetry locations and 1,225 associated available points. Home range sizes averaged 9.3 ha ± 3.0 (SE) using minimum convex polygon analysis, 8.25 ha ± 2.88 using 95% kernel density analysis, and 1.50 ha ± 0.56 using 50% kernel density analysis. Box turtles selected areas with greater visual obstruction at the 0–0.25‐m level, greater amounts of 10‐hour and 100‐hour fuels (timelag categories used in fire‐danger ratings), and greater litter depths compared to available locations. Box turtles were more likely to select areas with greater cover of brambles and coarser woody debris and were less likely to select areas with less vegetation cover. Vegetation type and time since last fire did not affect selection. Our data suggest that management activities that encourage greater understory vegetation cover, greater visual obstruction at the 0–0.25‐m level, and greater bramble cover will enhance habitat quality for eastern box turtles. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Outcomes in N3 Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Role of Upfront Neck Dissection
Authors: Boros Angela , Blanchard Pierre , Dade Arlette , Gorphe Philippe , Breuskin Ingrid , Even Caroline , Nguyen France , Deutsch Eric , Bidault François , Janot François , Temam Stephane , Mirghani Haitham , Tao Yungan
Published: August 2020

Objectives

We investigated the prognostic factor of N3 head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), including the role of upfront neck dissection (UFND) before radiotherapy (RT).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of consecutive N3 HNSCC patients treated with curative intent RT.

Results

In the study, 323 N3 HNSCC patients were included. Of those, 125 patients (39%) had UFND. Median follow‐up was 3.9 years (0–14.8 years). Overall survival (OS) at 5 years was 31.2%, and progression‐free survival (PFS) was 26%. In the multivariate analysis, OS was improved in PS 0, T1‐2 tumors, patients receiving concurrent chemotherapy, never or former smokers, and UFND. UFND was strongly associated with increased OS (45.7% vs. 21.2%, P < .001), and PFS (P < .001). Regardless of neck node size, UFND improved survival (P = .001 for ≤ 7 cm and P = .004 for > 7 cm).

Conclusion

UFND could improve treatment outcomes in N3 HNSCC, especially for non‐oropharyngeal cancer, regardless of neck node size.

Level of Evidence

2B Laryngoscope, 131:E844–E850, 2021
Novel mutations in the PLCZ1 gene associated with human low or failed fertilization
Authors: Yuan Ping , Zheng Lingyan , Liang Hao , Lin Qiyuan , Ou Songbang , Zhu Yuqin , Lai Luhua , Zhang Qingxue , He Zuyong , Wang Wenjun
Published: August 2020

Background

Fertilization failure (FF) is a complex reproductive disorder characterized by the failure of pronuclei formation during fertilization. In addition to some cases caused by iatrogenic problems and known genetic factors, there are still many unexplained aspects of FF. Here, we aimed to assess the clinical and genetic characteristics of two families experiencing primary infertility with FF.

Methods

We have characterized two families from China. All of the infertile couples presented with similar clinical phenotypes, that is, partial or total fertilization failure in repeated cycles. We performed Sanger sequencing of their WEE2, TLE6, and PLCZ1 genes, and further bioinformatics and functional analyses were performed to identify the pathogenic elements of the variants.

Results

We identified novel compound heterozygous mutations c.1259C>T (p.P420L) and c.1733T>C (p.M578T) in the PLCZ1 gene in a male patient of family 1 with total fertilization failure, and another novel homozygous mutation c.1727T>C (p.L576P) in the same gene in a male patient of family 2 with partial fertilization failure. These three novel mutations were absent in the control cohort and in the databases. The amino acids were conserved at their positions among six different species. All mutant amino acids were located in key domains and were predicted to impair hydrolytic activity and lead to PLCZ1 dysfunction. Further functional detection revealed that the three mutations could significantly impair the catalytic activity of PLCZ1.

Conclusions

We identified three novel mutations in PLCZ1 associated with partial and total fertilization failure and have provided new evidence about the genetic basis of FF.
Optimizing diffusion MRI acquisition efficiency of rodent brain using simultaneous multislice EPI
Authors: Lee Hsu‐Lei , Zhou Xiaoqing Alice , Li Zengmin , Chuang Kai‐Hsiang
Published: August 2020

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of the brain provides essential information on the white matter integrity and structural connectivity. However, it suffers from a low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and requires a long scan time to achieve high spatial and/or diffusion resolution and wide brain coverage. With recent advances in parallel and simultaneous multislice (multiband) imaging, the SNR efficiency has been improved by reducing the repetition time (TR). However, due to the limited number of RF coil channels available on preclinical MRI scanners, simultaneous multislice acquisition has not been practical. In this study, we demonstrate the ability of multiband DTI to acquire high‐resolution data of the mouse brain with 84 slices covering the whole brain in 0.2 mm isotropic resolution without a coil array at 9.4 T. Hadamard‐encoding four‐band pulses were used to acquire four slices simultaneously, with the reduction in the TR maximizing the SNR efficiency. To overcome shot‐to‐shot phase variations, Hadamard decoding with a self‐calibrated phase was developed. Compared with single‐band DTI acquired with the same scan time, the multiband DTI leads to significantly increased SNR by 40% in the white matter. This SNR gain resulted in reduced variations in fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, and eigenvector orientation. Furthermore, the cerebrospinal fluid signal was attenuated, leading to reduced free‐water contamination. Without the need for a high‐density coil array or parallel imaging, this technique enables highly efficient preclinical DTI that will facilitate connectome studies.
The long‐run effect of public debt on economic growth: Evidence from India
Authors: Barik Anirudha , Sahu Jagadish Prasad
Published: August 2020

This paper examines the long run relationship between public debt and economic growth in India for the period 1980–2018 using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach. The bounds test results suggest that gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, internal and external public debt, fixed investment and trade openness are cointegrated implying the existence of a long run equilibrium relationship between these variables. We find that both internal and external public debt have significant negative effect on economic growth in the long run whereas, investment has significant positive effect on the growth rate of output per capita. The error‐correction model shows that the long run equilibrium relationship is stable and the adjustment towards equilibrium is relatively high. Our findings suggest that too much reliance on public debt must be discouraged since it has adverse effect on economic growth in the long run. The government should adopt investment‐supportive policies to enhance economic growth of the country.
Socioeconomic impact of COVID‐19 pandemic: Evidence from rural mountain community in Pakistan
Authors: Ali Amjad , Ahmed Mumtaz , Hassan Nazia
Published: August 2020

This study examines the trend of the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) pandemic in Pakistan and to explore the community perception of the socioeconomic impact of COVID‐19 pandemic in a rural mountain area of Pakistan. An online survey was conducted through snowball sampling technique and total 367 people participated in the survey. The results of the study show that COVID‐19 cases spiked amid ease of lockdown in the country and the spread of novel coronavirus pandemic has significant socioeconomic impact on the lives of mountain communities in Gilgit‐Baltistan. Financial uncertainty, decrease in income, fear of job loss, and food insecurity are some major challenges that mountain communities face due to outbreak of coronavirus in the region. The results further show that lack of community cooperation with government agencies, lack of awareness about the severity of coronavirus, and insufficient COVID‐19 testing kits are the major factors that caused the spread of coronavirus cases. This study suggests that the short‐, medium‐, and long‐term policies are required to mitigate the consequences of this pandemic and to revitalize the mountain economy of Gilgit‐Baltistan, and in this regard, this study provides baseline information for policy‐makers and practitioners to devise such demanding policies.
Copy number analysis of meiotic and postzygotic mitotic aneuploidies in trophectoderm cells biopsied at the blastocyst stage and arrested embryos
Authors: Handyside Alan H. , McCollin Abeo , Summers Michael C. , Ottolini Christian S.
Published: August 2020

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT‐A) by copy number analysis is now widely used to select euploid embryos for transfer. Whole or partial chromosome aneuploidy can arise in meiosis, predominantly female meiosis, or in the postzygotic, mitotic divisions during cleavage and blastocyst formation, resulting in chromosome mosaicism. Meiotic aneuploidies are almost always lethal, however, the clinical significance of mitotic aneuploidies detected by PGT‐A is not fully understood and healthy live births have been reported following transfer of mosaic embryos. Here, we used single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping of both polar bodies and embryo samples to identify meiotic aneuploidies and compared copy number changes for meiotic and presumed mitotic aneuploidies in trophectoderm cells biopsied at the blastocyst stage and arrested embryos. PGT‐A detected corresponding full copy number changes (≥70%) for 36/37 (97%) maternal meiotic aneuploidies. The number of presumed mitotic copy number changes detected exceeded those of meiotic origin. Although mainly in the mosaic range, some of these mitotic aneuploidies had copy number changes ≥70% and would have been identified as full aneuploidies. Interestingly, many arrested embryos had multiple mitotic aneuploidies across a broad range of copy number changes, which may have arisen through tripolar spindle and other mitotic abnormalities.
Raine syndrome: Prenatal diagnosis based on recognizable fetal facial features and characteristic intracranial calcification
Authors: El‐Dessouky Sara H. , Abdel‐Hamid Mohamed S. , Abdel‐Ghafar Sherif F. , Aboulghar Mona M. , Gaafar Hassan M. , Fouad Mona , Ahmed Adel H. , Abdel‐Salam Ghada M. H.
Published: August 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the facial morphology and the pattern of internal malformations in three fetuses with RS born to first cousins of Egyptian decent.

Methods

The fetal ultrasonography findings were highly suggestive of RS leading to targeted Sanger sequencing ofFAM20Cand postnatal assessment.

Results

The prenatal ultrasound findings of osteosclerotic skull, exorbitism, hypoplastic nose, midface hypoplasia, small mouth with down‐curved corners, and a distinct and recognizable pattern of intracranial calcification were identified in three fetuses with RS. The calcifications were evident specifically around the corpus callosum and/or ventricular walls. Ectopic renal and hepatic calcifications, pulmonary hypoplasia, mild rhizomelic shortening of the upper limbs, intrauterine fractures, and cerebellar hypoplasia were also noted. Molecular analysis identified three novel homozygous variants, two frameshift: [c.456delC (p.Gly153Alafs*34)] in exon 1 and [c.905delT (Phe302Serfs*35)] in exon 4 and one nonsense mutation in exon 10, [c.1557C>G(p.Tyrs519*)]. The three variants were segregated with the phenotype. This is the first description of a phenotype associated with homozygous truncating variants ofFAM20C.

Conclusion

RS has characteristic prenatal ultrasound findings which can improve the prenatal identification of this condition and help in guiding the molecular diagnosis and counseling.
The effect of thermal treatment on the properties of expanded polystyrene
Authors: Ellouze Ameni , Jesson David , Ben Cheikh Ridha
Published: August 2020

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a commonly used polymer in the packaging industry and for the thermal insulation of buildings. It has poor mechanical properties, which limit its application in some areas. A heat treatment was carried out on a sample of EPS, in order to improve its mechanical properties. The treatment consists of operations that combine the heating and cooling of the material. It is executed to improve the characteristics of the treated polymer and make it more favorable for use in new applications. In the case of EPS, this process changes the behavior of the polymer in a beneficial manner and maximizes its density and hardness. Indeed, the treated version shows interesting mechanical, tribological, and hygroscopic properties. This improvement was obtained mainly due to the morphological modification of the structure of EPS. Indeed, heat treatment leads to the creation of a polystyrene crust, which covers every EPS bead. This crust protects the cell structure of each bead against stretching and supports most of the load applied to the treated version of EPS. Thus, the treated EPS can be used not only for packaging and thermal insulation but also for more structural applications.
Effect of enzymatic versus titanium dioxide/silicon dioxide catalyst on crystal structure of ‘green’ poly[(butylene succinate)‐co‐(dilinoleic succinate)] copolymers
Authors: Sokołowska Martyna , Stachowska Ewa , Czaplicka Michalina , El Fray Miroslawa
Published: August 2020

Focusing on an eco‐friendly approach, biodegradable poly[(butylene succinate)‐co‐(dilinoleic succinate)] (PBS‐DLS) copolymers with 70:30 (wt%) ratio of hard to soft segments were successfully synthesized via various processes and catalytic systems. In this approach, biobased succinate was polymerized with renewable 1,4‐butanediol and dimer linoleic diol to obtain ‘green’ copolyesters as sustainable alternatives to petroleum‐based materials. In the first procedure, a two‐step synthesis in diphenyl ether was performed using Candida antarctica lipase B (CAL‐B) as a biocatalyst. A second material was produced via two‐step melt polycondensation in the presence of heterogeneous titanium dioxide/silicone dioxide (C‐94) catalyst. The obtained PBS‐DLS copolyesters were further characterized in regard to their number‐average molecular weight (Mn), chemical structure, thermal transition temperatures and crystallization behavior. Here, digital holographic microscopy was used to study the crystallization behavior of synthesized segmented copolyesters for the first time. Using this technique, it was possible to reveal the twisting of crystalline regions in formed spherulites and observe the differences in crystallization behavior of copolyesters depending on the type of catalyst used in their synthesis. Structural characterization indicated random and blocky structure of copolymers depending on the type of catalyst. Mn was noticeably higher in the case of PBS‐DLS 70:30 copolymer catalyzed using C‐94 than PBS‐DLS 70:30 synthesized with the use of CAL‐B. However, the degree of crystallinity was lower for polymer catalyzed with the heterogeneous catalyst. Furthermore, differential scanning calorimetric thermal analysis revealed that synthesized copolyesters exhibit low glass transition temperature as well as high melting point which are typical for thermoplastic elastomers. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of various organic fibers on the stiffness, strength and impact resistance of polypropylene; a comparison
Authors: Várdai Róbert , Ferdinánd Milán , Lummerstorfer Thomas , Pretschuh Claudia , Jerabek Michael , Gahleitner Markus , Faludi Gábor , Móczó János , Pukánszky Béla
Published: August 2020

Composites were prepared from a polypropylene homopolymer and four types of organic fibers, wood, flax, poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Mechanical properties were studied by tensile and impact testing, and structure by scanning electron microscopy. Local deformation processes were followed by acoustic emission testing. Composite strength changes in a wide range and depends on coupling. The deformability of the composites also varies considerably, more plastic deformation occurring in composites prepared with the PET and PVA fibers. Compared to traditional stiff fibers, fracture resistance can be improved significantly with PET and PVA fibers; impact strength as large as 30 kJ m–2 can be achieved with PVA. © 2020 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Bereavement risk screening: A pathway to psychosocial oncology care
Authors: Roberts Kailey E. , Jankauskaite Greta , Slivjak Elizabeth , Rubin Lisa , Schachter Sherry , Stabler Stacy , Wiener Lori , Prigerson Holly G. , Lichtenthal Wendy G.
Published: August 2020

Objective

This qualitative study sought to obtain feedback from stakeholder cancer caregivers and bereaved family members on the implementation of bereavement risk screening in oncology.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 38 family members of patients with advanced cancer (n = 12) and bereaved family members (n = 26) on when and how to effectively implement bereavement risk screening. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Many participants indicated that they would be open to completing a self‐report screening measure before and after the patient's death. Several suggested screening at multiple timepoints and the importance of follow‐up. Participants viewed screening as an opportunity to connect to psychosocial support.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that family members appear supportive of sensitively approached bereavement risk screening before and after a patient's death as an important component of quality psychosocial care. To optimize implementation, bereavement risk screening would involve screening at multiple timepoints and include follow‐up. Findings suggest standardized risk screening using a brief, validated self‐report tool would be a pragmatic approach to increasing access to bereavement care.
Sleep quality and prostate cancer aggressiveness: Results from the REDUCE trial
Authors: Wiggins Emily K. , Oyekunle Taofik , Howard Lauren E. , Markt Sarah C. , Mucci Lorelei A. , Bliwise Donald L. , Moreira Daniel M. , Andriole Gerald L. , Hopp Martin L. , Freedland Stephen J. , Allott Emma H.
Published: August 2020

Background

Disrupted sleep has been associated with increased risk of certain cancers. Little data exist in prostate cancer. We tested the association between sleep quality and prostate cancer diagnosis overall and by tumor grade in the Reduction by Dutasteride of Prostate Cancer Events chemoprevention trial. We hypothesized that worse sleep quality would be associated with increased tumor aggressiveness.

Methods

At baseline, 5614 men completed a validated six‐item questionnaire on sleep quality. We generated a composite score categorized into tertiles to measure overall sleep quality and assessed each sleep quality question individually. Logistic regression was used to test associations between baseline sleep quality and overall, low‐grade and high‐grade prostate cancer diagnosis at 2‐year study‐mandated biopsy. Models were stratified by nocturia.

Results

Overall sleep quality was unrelated to overall or low‐grade prostate cancer. Worse overall sleep quality was associated with elevated odds of high‐grade prostate cancer (odds ratio [OR]T3vsT1 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.83‐1.60 and ORT2vsT1 1.39; 95% CI: 1.01‐1.92). Men reporting trouble falling asleep at night sometimes vs never had elevated odds of high‐grade prostate cancer (OR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.08‐2.09) while trouble staying awake during the day was associated with decreased odds of low‐grade prostate cancer (OR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.49‐0.86). Results were similar within strata of nocturia severity.

Conclusions

Overall, associations between sleep quality and prostate cancer were inconsistent. However, there was some evidence for a positive association between insomnia and high‐grade prostate cancer, and an inverse relationship between daytime sleepiness and low‐grade prostate cancer; findings that should be validated by future studies.
Rectification of Spin Currents in a Metal/Insulator/Metal Heterostructure
Authors: Yan Yonghong , Jiang Feng , Zhao Hui
Published: August 2020

Rectification of spin currents is investigated theoretically in a normal‐metal/ferromagnetic‐insulator/normal‐metal heterostructure. The ferromagnetic insulator is assumed to have an anisotropic parameter of Δ > 1, and thus it is gapped. In the presence of a magnetic field along the z‐direction, the ground state becomes the one with all spins pointing upward (in the z‐direction). When a spin‐up polarized current is incident from the left metal, it is suppressed due to spin blockade; however, the spin‐down polarized current can pass through the insulator easily. Thus rectification of spin currents can be realized and it is found that the rectification coefficient can be up to ≈10 (or even higher) in the limit of low temperature or large energy gap. It can be further improved when the spin system is asymmetrically coupled with the metals. The results could be useful in spintronics based on magnetic insulators.
Biochanin A induces a brown‐fat phenotype via improvement of mitochondrial biogenesis and activation ofAMPKsignaling in murineC3H10T1/2 mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Rahman Md. Shamim , Imran Khan Mohammad , Hossain Monir , Lee Tae‐Jin , Kim Yong‐Sik
Published: August 2020

In this study, we investigated the effect of Biochanin A (BioA), an O‐methylated isoflavone on the brown‐fat phenotype formation and on the associated thermogenic program including mitochondrial biogenesis and lipolysis in C3H10T1/2 MSCs. Our data demonstrates that Treatment with BioA in an adipogenic differentiation cocktail induced formation of brown‐fat–like adipocytes from C3H10T1/2 MSCs without treatment with a known browning inducer (rosiglitazone or T3) at an early stage of differentiation. The formation of brown‐fat–like adipocytes by BioA treatment was evidenced by upregulation of key thermogenic markers:Ucp1,Pgc1α,Prdm16, andPparγ. BioA also increased the expression of beige (Cd137andFgf21) and brown (Elovl3andZic1)‐specific markers. Additionally, BioA treatment promoted mitochondrial biogenesis, judging by the upregulation of genes;Cox8b,Cidea,Dio2,Sirt1,Opa1, andFis1. BioA treatment increased the amount of mitochondrial DNA and its encoded proteins: oxidative phosphorylation complexes (I–V); this change was associated with high oxygen consumption by C3H10T1/2 MSCs. A small‐interfering‐RNA–induced gene knockdown and experiments with dorsomorphin‐driven competitive inhibition revealed that BioA exerts the thermogenic action via activation of AMPK signaling. Our study shows the mechanism of BioA‐induced promotion of a brown‐fat phenotype. Nonetheless, clinical research is necessary to validate BioA as a brown‐fat‐like signature inducer.
Molecular electrostatic potential at nuclear position as a new concept in evaluation of the substitution effects of intramolecular B/N frustrated Lewis pairs in H2 splitting and CO2 reduction
Authors: Sabet‐Sarvestani Hossein , Izadyar Mohammad , Eshghi Hossein
Published: August 2020

This study aims to investigate the efficiency and effectiveness of some of the intramolecular boron‐nitrogen frustrated Lewis pairs (B/N‐FLPs) as metal‐free organocatalysts in CO2 conversion. A two‐step mechanism was considered for the catalytic reaction, including the hydrogen splitting by the FLPs (step 1) and reduction reaction by the hydrogenated FLPs (FLPH2s) (step 2). The boron atom in the studied FLPs is bonded to various substituents, which have substantial effects on the performance of the B atom as a Lewis acid. The studied FLPs are classified into two distinguished categories. The quantum theory of atoms in molecules method and natural bond orbital analyses showed that more occupation of the p orbital of boron by the substituted groups causes the reluctance of the boron atom in hydrogen splitting and acceptation of electron density of the hydride ion. However, molecular electrostatic potential at the nuclear positions was used as a novel descriptor in justification of the kinetic behavior of FLPs in hydrogen splitting and reduction reactions. Obtained ΔΔVn values in the donor‐acceptor interacting system, as an outcome of the electrostatic potential concept, show a remarkable linear correlation with the calculated barrier energies (∆G≠) of hydrogen splitting and reduction reactions. This linear correlation can be observed for ΔΔVn values vs electron localization function and localized orbital locator of the developing bond at transition states 1 and 2. Finally, it is concluded that similar activation energies for hydrogen splitting and reduction reactions can be an appropriate criterion for the performance and efficacy of the studied FLPs in the overall reaction.
An emerging powerful technique for distinguishing isomers: Trapped ion mobility spectrometry time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry for rapid characterization of estrogen isomers
Authors: Delvaux Aurélie , Rathahao‐Paris Estelle , Alves Sandra
Published: August 2020

Rationale

Isomer metabolites are involved in metabolic pathways, and their characterization is essential but remains challenging even using high‐performance analytical platforms. The addition of ion mobility prior to mass analysis can help to separate isomers. Here, the ability of a recently developed trapped ion mobility spectrometry system to separate metabolite isomers was examined.

Methods

Three pairs of estrogen isomers were studied as a model of isomeric metabolites under both negative and positive electrospray ionization (ESI) modes using a commercial trapped ion mobility spectrometry‐TOF mass spectrometer. The standard metabolites were also spiked into human urine to evaluate the efficiency of trapped ion mobility spectrometry to separate isomers in complex mixtures.

Results

The estradiol glucuronide isomers (E2β‐3G and E2β‐17G) could be distinguished as deprotonated species, while the estradiol epimers (E2β and E2α) and the methoxyestradiol isomers (2‐MeO‐E2β and 4‐MeO‐E2β) were separated as lithiated adducts in positive ionization mode. When performing analyses in the urine matrix, no alteration in the ion mobility resolving power was observed and the measured collision cross section (CCS) values varied by less than 1.0%.

Conclusions

The trapped ion mobility spectrometry‐TOF mass spectrometer enabled the separation of the metabolite isomers with very small differences in CCS values (ΔCCS% = 2%). It is shown to be an effective tool for the rapid characterization of isomers in complex matrices.
Co‐diagnoses of acute myeloid leukaemia and COVID‐19: presentation and management implications
Authors: O'Brien Amy , Campling James , Goodman Hugh , Chang Catherina L.
Published: August 2020

We report a case of concurrent new diagnoses of confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). We review the existing literature on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) in the immunocompromised patient and the implications for managing our patient's haematological neoplasm. The implications of severe immunocompromise are unclear in the context of infection with SARS‐CoV‐2. Respiratory and viral systemic symptoms remained mild in this patient and this is consistent with the existing literature on COVID‐19 in immunocompromised patients. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a case of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with AML.
The strategic allocation of inventors to R&D collaborations
Authors: Palomeras Neus , Wehrheim David
Published: August 2020

Research Summary

In this paper, we suggest that staffing decisions in R&D alliances can reduce the inherent tension between value creation and value protection faced by participating firms. By considering R&D workers a primary source of knowledge leakage, we analyze the role of their intellectual property (IP) protection in shaping the misappropriation threat posed by the partner. We rely on patent ownership and inventorship data to analyze the selection of individuals for R&D collaborations in the pharmaceutical industry between 1991 and 2010. Our results suggest that an inventor's strength of IP protection is an important determinant in allocation decisions since it contributes to offsetting leakage risks in the alliance. The effect is especially strong in alliances that anticipate higher hazards.

Managerial Summary

The literature argues that firms can reap many benefits from R&D collaborations. However, such activities are challenging to manage because they require firms to put valuable knowledge at risk of misappropriation by the partner. We draw attention to the role that inventors play in generating and channeling knowledge during collaborative work and posit that the strength of the IP protection covering their innovations can safeguard against the consequences of knowledge leakage. We analyze pharmaceutical alliances and find that managers are more prone to allocate to collaborations inventors whose knowledge is better protected, particularly when the alliance anticipates considerable misappropriation risks. Our study has implications for how firms allocate inventors across projects, which may be an important factor for the overall success of firms' R&D strategies.
Longitudinal shear transmission of anchor channels into concrete—An experimental approach
Authors: Konertz Dustin , Kocur Georg Karl , Häusler Frank , Mark Peter
Published: August 2020

The paper presents an innovative method to determine anchor forces in anchor channels exposed to longitudinal shear loads. The channel's load‐bearing behavior is experimentally investigated by fiber‐optic techniques recording the longitudinal strains. For the first time these recordings uncover the inner flux of forces and enable to deduce the load distribution on the anchors. Before applying on anchor channels, the devices and components as well as its application are tested on a tension rod. Altogether 200 tests on anchor channels are performed varying the types of channel and anchor, the number of anchors, the closest distance of an anchor to the loaded edge and the position of load application. The tests confirmed that all available anchors (up to five were tested) transfer forces into the concrete member. Load distribution on the anchors is not uniform but depends on the type of anchor, the position of load application, the distance between the anchors and load application and the number of anchors available. By contrast, channel type and edge distance of the front anchor have little impact.
“We Share Our Stories and Risk Losing It All”: Activist‐Storytelling as Edgework in the Undocumented Youth Movement
Authors: Cabaniss Emily R. , Shay Heather
Published: August 2020

Most research on edgework has focused on how individuals manage voluntary risk‐taking. Few scholars have examined the process by which groups work together to construct and mitigate these activities. Our research, however, shows how undocumented youth activists collectively leveraged cultural capital to encourage risky forms of public storytelling by positioning those who participated in this strategy as especially courageous and entitled to the psychic rewards of edgework. Movement leaders bolstered the strategy by teaching new members to see their fluency in English, high levels of education, and assimilation into white, middle‐class American culture as qualities that enabled them to successfully tread the border between order and disorder, and to overcome fears that kept most other undocumented immigrants from engaging in such risky forms of activist‐storytelling.
Circumscription and phylogenetic position of Ligularia sect. Stenostegia (Asteraceae: Senecioneae) based on morphological, cytological, and molecular phylogenetic evidence
Authors: Ren Chen , Wang Long , Illarionova Irina D. , Yang Qin‐Er
Published: August 2020

Ligularia sect. Stenostegia (Asteraceae: Senecioneae) has been questioned about its monophyly and phylogenetic position in our previous study. To settle the dispute, we here verify the phylogenetic pattern of L. sect. Stenostegia with a much denser taxon sampling in the section. The results have corroborated our previous hypothesis, by showing that L. sect. Stenostegia is monophyletic only after excluding L. lancifera, and that the core L. sect. Stenostegia is more closely related to Parasenecio and Sinacalia than to Ligularia. The relationships are further supported by evidence from morphology and geographical distribution, and the results of cytological studies and statistical topology tests in this study. The core L. sect. Stenostegia, with the absence of expanded leaf sheaths and a base chromosome number of x = 30, is substantially different from Ligularia, while congruent with Parasenecio and Sinacalia. Its concentrated distribution in eastern Central Asia also readily sets it apart from Ligularia, which is mainly distributed in eastern Asia, with the center of species diversity in the Himalayas and the Hengduan Mountains region in southwestern China. In contrast, L. lancifera has greatly expanded leaf sheaths, a chromosome number of 2n = 58, and a distribution in eastern Xizang (Tibet) in China, all perfectly matching the features of Ligularia. The AU and SOWH statistical topology tests also strongly favor this phylogenetic hypothesis, by significantly rejecting the alternative hypotheses in current classification. Based on all the evidence, L. lancifera is excluded from L. sect. Stenostegia, and the core L. sect. Stenostegia is segregated as an independent genus of its own, with a new name Vickifunkia.
The factors that determine franchising intensity: An analysis in an emerging economy
Authors: Flores Villanueva Cesario Armando , Gaytán Ramírez María del Carmen
Published: August 2020

This study evaluates the franchising intensity of Mexican franchise chains. Supported by the theory of agency and the theory of signals, the influence of the brand recognition and the pricing strategy on the franchising intensity of the chain was evaluated. The brand recognition was evaluated using four indicators: experience, size, MFA (Mexican Franchise Association) affiliation, and origin. The pricing strategy was evaluated with three indicators: initial investment, entry fee, and royalties. On a sample of the 397 franchise systems operating in Mexico in 2016, the multiple linear regression technique was used to evaluate the influence of the brand recognition and the pricing strategy of the chain on the franchising intensity of the chain. This research confirms that the factors associated with brand recognition and initial investment influence the franchising intensity of the Mexican chains.
Uncertainty quantification for multilabel text classification
Authors: Chen Wenshi , Zhang Bowen , Lu Mingyu
Published: August 2020

Deep neural networks have recently achieved impressive performance on multilabel text classification. However, the uncertainty in multilabel text classification tasks and their application in the model are often overlooked. To better understand and evaluate the uncertainty in multilabel text classification tasks, we propose a general framework called Uncertainty Quantification for Multilabel Text Classification framework. Based on the prediction results produced by traditional neural networks, the aleatory uncertainty of each classification label and the epistemic uncertainty of the prediction result can further be obtained by this framework. We design experiments to characterize the properties of aleatory uncertainty and epistemic uncertainty from the data characteristics and model features. The experimental results show that this framework is reasonable. Furthermore, we demonstrate how this framework allows us to define the model optimization criterion to identify policies that balance the expected training cost, model performance, and uncertainty sensitivity.

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Bayesian Models
A novel class of translationally invariant spin chains with long-range interactions
Authors: Basu-Mallick B. , Finkel F. , González-López A.
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We introduce a new class of open, translationally invariant spin chains with long-range interactions depending on both spin permutation and (polarized) spin reversal operators, which includes the Haldane-Shastry chain as a particular degenerate case. The new class is characterized by the fact that the Hamiltonian is invariant under “twisted” translations, combining an ordinary translation with a spin flip at one end of the chain. It includes a remarkable model with elliptic spin-spin interactions, smoothly interpolating between the XXX Heisenberg model with anti-periodic boundary conditions and a new open chain with sites uniformly spaced on a half-circle and interactions inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the spins. We are able to compute in closed form the partition function of the latter chain, thereby obtaining a complete description of its spectrum in terms of a pair of independent su(1|1) and su(m/2) motifs when the number m of internal degrees of freedom is even. This implies that the even m model is invariant under the direct sum of the Yangians Y (gl(1|1)) and Y (gl(0|m/2)). We also analyze several statistical properties of the new chain’s spectrum. In particular, we show that it is highly degenerate, which strongly suggests the existence of an underlying (twisted) Yangian symmetry also for odd m.
Elektive Tracheostomie bei COVID-19-Patienten – Erfahrungen mit einem standardisierten interdisziplinären Vorgehen
Authors: Pudszuhn A. , Voegeler S. , Berger C. , Treskatsch S. , Angermair S. , Hansen S. , Hofmann V. M.
Published: August 2020

Berichtet wird über die Erfahrungen mit einer interdisziplinären klinikinternen SOP (Standard Operation Procedure) zur Tracheostomie (TS) bei „Coronavirus-Disease“(COVID-19)-Patienten, unter Berücksichtigung der allgemeinen nationalen und internationalen Empfehlungen. Der interdisziplinär festgelegte operative Zeitpunkt der TS aufgrund einer prolongierten invasiven Beatmung und frustranen Weaning-Versuchen betraf Phasen sowohl hoher als auch niedriger Erkrankungsaktivität. Es wurden 5 TS bei Patienten mit einem Durchschnittsalter von 70,6 Jahren durchgeführt. Neben den Standard-COVID-19-Schutzmaßnahmen für das medizinische Personal zur Vermeidung einer nosokomialen COVID-19-Infektion führt die SOP-unterstützte Kommunikation während der TS zu einer periprozeduralen Sicherheit aller Beteiligten. COVID-19-Erkrankungen des medizinischen Personals der beteiligten Abteilungen sind bisher nicht bekannt.