bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HPV vaccination and sexual behaviour in healthcare seeking young women in Luxembourg
Authors: Soudeyns Camille , Speybroeck Niko , Brisson Marc , Mossong Joël , Latsuzbaia Ardashel
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. Despite recommendations for HPV vaccination of young women from health authorities, parental concerns were raised whether vaccination could induce unsafe sexual behaviour in young women. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to investigate if HPV vaccination in healthcare seeking adult women in Luxembourg was associated with unsafe sexual behaviour.

Methods

Seven hundred twenty-nine women (mean age = 22.5; range 18–43 years) were recruited either at Luxembourg family planning centres or at private gynaecology practices. All participants completed a questionnaire on vaccination status and sexual behaviour. Poisson and logistic regressions were used to study the association between sexual behaviour and vaccination status (N = 538). Both models were restricted to women younger than 26 years, since the first cohort being vaccinated would be 25 years old at the time of sampling. Assortativity of sexual mixing by age was also assessed for further transmission modelling for women <30 years reporting age of last/current sexual partner (N = 649). Women older than 29 years were excluded from the assortativity analysis due to restricted sample size.

Results

In total, 386/538 (71.8%) of participants reported receiving HPV vaccine. Vaccination uptake significantly varied by nationality and was higher in Portuguese 112/142 (78.9%) and in Luxembourgish 224/313(71.6%) residents, and lower in residents of other nationalities 50/83 (60.2%) (p = 0.011). HPV vaccination was not associated with unsafe sexual behaviour such as shorter relationship duration with current or last sexual partner (odds ratio (OR) = 1.05, 95% CI [0.94–1.16]), younger age of sexual debut (OR = 1.00, 95% CI [0.88–1.14]), increased number of lifetime sexual partners (OR = 0.95, 95% CI [0.87–1.03), higher age difference with sexual partner (OR = 1.01, 95% CI [0.95–1.08]), condom use (OR = 0.97, 95% CI [0.60–1.56]), nor with other factors like smoking (OR = 0.73, 95% CI [0.47–1.15]) and nationality. HPV vaccination was only associated with younger age (OR = 0.84, 95% CI [0.75–0.94]). Relationship duration, age of sexual debut, age difference with sexual partner, smoking, age and non-Portuguese foreign nationality were predictors of number of lifetime sexual partners. Assortativity analysis revealed that young women chose sexual partners who were 2.3 years older on average.

Conclusions

Our study found no association between unsafe sexual behaviour and HPV vaccination.
Rheology and Acceptance of Pap (Zea mays) Enriched with Jatropha carcus Leaves to Improve Iron Status in Children
Authors: I. Asouzu A. , N. Umerah N.
Published: February 2020

This study was carried out to determine the Rheology and acceptance of            Pap (Zea mays) enriched with Jatropha carcus leaves to improve iron status in Children. The blends of pap slurry and Jatropha curcas leaves was made at substitution level of 70:30 respectively. However, the sample formulation was coded as sample A for 100% pap, B for 100% Jatropha curcas leaves and sample C for 70% pap and 30% Jatropha curcas leaves. Sensory evaluation was conducted on the gruel made from the samples to test acceptability.  All samples were subjected to laboratory analysis for proximate, mineral, anti-nutrients, viscocity and functional properties using standard method and thereafter, the results obtained were further subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS. The result showed that the proximate composition of the samples ranged from 11.82 to 43.31% for moisture, fibre 2.71 to 10.20%, protein 3.24 to 6.28%, carbohydrate 41.61 to 61.55% and energy 250.10 to 401.50 kcal. The minerals were also ranged from 4.62 to 10.04 mg/100 g for iron, magnesium 62.55 to 112.01 mg/100 g, zinc 0.03 to 0.67 mg/100 g and calcium 44.21 to 110.28 mg/100 g. The anti-nutrients were found to be tannin 0.03 to 2.67 mg/100 g, phytate 0.34 to 1.11 mg/100 g, oxalate 0.91 to 2.64 mg/100 g, and saponin 0.00 to 1.24 mg/100 g. The study however showed that the functional properties of 100% pap and the pap fortified with Jatropha carcus leaves were water absorption capacity 65.78 and 52.68%, oil absorption capacity 140.20 and 120.00%, and foaming capacity 22.45 and 28.01% respectively. The panelist preferred the 100% pap than the pap enriched with Jatropha curcas leaves.  This study has revealed an increase in iron, magnesium and zinc which shows that fortification of pap with Jatropha curcas leaves will enhance the iron status of the populace.
Effect of Foliar Fertilization of Boron, Zinc and Iron on Fruit Quality and Leaf Nutrients Content of Peach cv. Shan-e-Punjab
Authors: Muradi Besmellah , Kumar Godara Anil
Published: February 2020

Aims: To study the effect of different micronutrients and number of foliar spray on fruit quality and leaf nutrient content of peach.

Study Design: The experiment comprised of seven treatments and conducted on seven years old plants in Randomized Block Design with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the experimental orchard of Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during the year 2018.

Methodology: The treatments included in the study consisted of three micro-nutrients [T1- ZnSO4 @ 0.2%, T2- ZnSO4 @ 0.3%, T3- FeSO4 @ 0.2%, T4- FeSO4 @ 0.3%, T5- Boric acid @ 0.1%, T6- Boric acid @ 0.2%, T7- Control (water spray)] each applied as foliar spray at different concentration as single and double spray.

Results: The results showed that foliar spray of micronutrients significantly improved quality and leaf nutrient status in peach cv. Shan-e-Punjab. The foliar spray of FeSO4 @ 0.2% (T3) found to be the best treatment with respect to TSS (11.06%), ascorbic acid (8.18 mg/100 g pulp) and leaf iron content (345.51 ppm). The highest TSS: ratio (23.88), leaf zinc content (35.42 ppm) and lowest acidic fruits (0.45%) was observed from the plants sprayed with T1 (ZnSO4 @ 0.2%), whereas, highest leaf boron content (91.02 ppm) was recorded with T6 (Boric acid @ 0.2%). Double foliar spray of micronutrients (Fe, Zn and B) at first week of March + April significantly TSS, TSS: acidity, ascorbic acid, leaf zinc, iron, and boron content and reduced acidity fruits then single foliar spray in first week of March.

Conclusion: The foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.2% (T1) proved to be best treatment in terms of quality. A double spray of micronutrients (Fe, Zn and B) significantly increased total soluble solids, TSS: acidity, ascorbic acid, leaf (zinc, iron, and boron) content and reduced fruit acidity as compared to single spray.
Comparison of Conjunctival Autograft Technique Using Autologous Blood as Glue Versus Suture Technique in Pterygium Surgery
Authors: Singh Suchita , Sonwani Prabha , Shrivastava M.
Published: February 2020

Aim: To compare the post-operative inflammation, surgical time and complications in conjunctival autografting with oozed autologous blood versus sutures in primary pterygium surgery.

Study Design: Prospective interventional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Ophthalmology, CIMS, Bilaspur (C.G), India. (Jan 2017-May 2018).

Methodology: 80 eyes of 80 patients (25 to 75 years) presented with primary pterygium up to grade 3 were included in this prospective interventional study presented in eye OPD, CIMS, Bilaspur (CG). All the procedures and post-operative evaluation was done by the same surgeon. All the patients were divided into two groups on alternate basis. 40 patients received conjunctival autografting with oozed autologous blood (CAGb) and 40 patients received sutures (CAGs). These two groups were then compared for post-operative inflammation, surgical time and complications (day 1, day 5, 2 weeks, 1 month and 3 month).

Result: Total 80 patients were evaluated after surgery. Progressive pterygium was observed in more than 50% cases in both groups. Post-operative inflammation and discomfort was significantly lower in CAGb group compared to CAGs group (P<.001). Mean surgical time was also significantly less in CAGb group (11.6±2 min) compared to CAGs group (21.6±3min) (P<.001). In CAGb group 5% patients had graft displacement while none in CAGs group. Granuloma formation was higher in CAGs group (12.5%) compared to CAGb group (7.5%). Subgraft haemorrhage was 10% in CAGb and 17.5% in CAGs group. Dellen formation was seen in 3 patients in CAGb and 4 patients in CAGs. Recurrence rate was higher in suture group (5/40 in CAGs vs 1/40 in CAGb).

Conclusion: Our study concludes that placement of conjunctival autograft with oozed autologous blood as adhesive after pterygium excision is an effective, less inflammatory and less time consuming approach, with significantly lower rates of post-operative complications. This can be used as a better alternative to suture technique.
GATA6 enhances the stemness of human colon cancer cells by creating a metabolic symbiosis through upregulating LRH‐1 expression
Authors: Lai Hung‐Tzu , Chiang Chin‐Ting , Tseng Wen‐Ko , Chao Ta‐Chung , Su Yeu
Published: February 2020

Cancer stem cells play critical roles in tumor initiation, progression, and relapse. Since we previously found that GATA6 promotes the stemness in HCT‐116 and HT‐29 human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells, we aimed to identify the downstream mediator(s) of the stemness‐stimulating effect of GATA6 herein. LRH‐1 was found as a direct target of GATA6 and its upregulation promoted the stemness in both HCT‐116 and HT‐29 cells. Subsequently, hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) was identified as a direct target of LRH‐1 and its expression level and activity were significantly elevated in the LRH‐1‐overexpressing clones established from the aforementioned two CRC lines. Accordingly, the expression levels of several HIF‐1α targets were also markedly increased, resulting in a stronger glycolysis associated with dramatic elevations of the lactate levels in these cells. Strikingly, higher mitochondrial activities were also found in these clones which might be attributed to the increase of PGC‐1α stimulated by the lactate uptaken through the upregulated MCT‐1. Finally, significant increases in the self‐renewal ability, intracellular radical oxygen species levels and mitochondrial mass were detected in the CD133+/CD44+ subpopulations isolated from CRC cells regardless of their LRH‐1 expression levels. Together, our results suggest a novel metabolic symbiosis between different colorectal cancer stem cell subpopulations critical for maintaining their mutual stemness.
Effects of Dy Addition on the Mechanical and Degradation Properties of Mg–2Zn–0.5Zr Alloy
Authors: Li Huan , Wen Jiuba , He Junguang , Shi Huina , Liu Ya
Published: February 2020

As candidates for biomaterials, magnesium and its alloys have promising properties such as biodegradability and biocompatibility. However, their poor mechanical properties and rapid degradation rate limit clinical application; therefore, solving these issues is essential for practical application. Herein, different contents of dysprosium (Dy) (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3 mass%) are added to the Mg–2Zn–0.5Zr biomagnesium alloy to explore its effect on the mechanical and degradation properties. Assessments are conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), immersion, and electrode chemical experiments. The results indicate that the addition of Dy significantly decreases the grain size, and the second phase is (Mg, Dy)7Zn3 with a body‐centered cubic structure. At a Dy content of 1.5 mass%, grain refinement and second‐phase strengthening result in the alloy having relatively good properties, with an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) = 150 ± 14 MPa, yield strength (YS) = 89 ± 3 MPa, and elongation (EL) = 9.2 ± 0.6%. The addition of Dy promotes the formation of a stable protective film and increases the electrode potential of the Mg matrix, resulting in a degradation rate of 0.89 ± 0.12 mm year−1. The results indicate that the alloy with 1.5 mass% Dy content is a promising candidate for using as a biodegradable material.
Nitrogen in potato rotations with cover crops: Field trial and simulations using DSSAT
Authors: Geisseler Daniel , Wilson Rob
Published: February 2020

A 2‐yr field trial was conducted in 2014−2015 in northern California to determine the N availability from different legume and grass cover crops grown during the summer and incorporated in fall. Russet Norkotah potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) were planted the following spring. The objectives of this study were to determine whether potato yield can be successfully predicted with the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) model for different cover crop treatments and to assess the risk of nitrate (NO3−) leaching losses with winter precipitation. The total amount of N in the aboveground biomass of the legumes ranged from 73 to 253 kg ha−1. The potato yield of the unfertilized control reached 39 Mg ha−1, while it ranged from 34.8 to 47.9 Mg ha−1 in the cover crop treatments. The DSSAT model considerably underestimated the soil mineral N content before potato was planted in the treatments with legume cover crops. The results suggest that the legumes likely covered a larger proportion of their N requirements through N2 fixation and less through uptake of soil mineral N than predicted by the model. The inaccurate simulation of cover crop soil N uptake contributed to a poor prediction of potato yields for individual treatments. In contrast, the model was successful in simulating N mineralization from cover crop residues. Using weather data from a 30‐yr period revealed that NO3− leaching below the root zone of the subsequent potato crop is minimal in most winters.
Effect of PDI ligand binding pattern on the electrocatalytic activity of two Ru(II) complexes for CO2 reduction
Authors: Shi Ning‐ning , Xie Wang‐jing , Gao Wei‐song , Wang Jin‐miao , Zhang Shi‐fu , Fan Yu‐hua , Wang Mei
Published: February 2020

The electrochemical properties of two complexes, [RuII(η3‐(N,N,N)‐OMePDI)Cl2(PPh3)]0 (1) and [RuII(η2‐(C,N)‐OMePDI‐H)Cl (PPh3)2]0 (2), were studied. In octahedral complex 1, bis(imino)pyridine (PDI) is a tridentate η3‐N,N,N‐coordinated ligand, whereas in trigonal‐bipyramidal complex 2, the deprotonated PDI ligand adopts the unusual bidentate binding mode η2‐C,N to coordinate to the central Ru(II) ion. Bulk electrolysis in two electrolyte solutions of acetonitrile (MeCN) and tetrahydrofuran (THF) suggests that complexes 1 and 2 have very different electrocatalytic CO2 reduction activities. In MeCN solution, complex 1 can selectively electrocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO with a Faradaic efficiency of about 50% and a turnover frequency (TOF) of 4.4 s−1, whereas complex 2 can perform electrocatalytic of CO2 reduction with a Faraday efficiency of ~22% and a TOF of 0.3 S−1. The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction selectivity and activity of the two complexes are poor when the solvent is changed to THF. Combined with the results of the density functional theory calculation, we propose that the binding pattern of the redox‐active ligand OMePDI has a significant effect on the electrocatalytic activity for the two Ru(II)PDI complexes.
Formulation and Characterization of Novel Nanostructured Lipid Carriers with Photoprotective Properties Made from Carnauba Wax, Beeswax, Pumpkin Seed Oil, and UV Filters
Authors: Chu Chee Chin , Hasan Zafarizal Aldrin Bin Azizul , Chua Siaw Kim , Nyam Kar Lin
Published: February 2020

Pumpkin seed oil (PSO) with carnauba wax and beeswax was used to develop nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) loaded with a UV filter, Uvinul® A Plus B. The aims of the study were to optimize the concentration of PSO to develop a stable NLC formulation, determine storage stability of the NLC with and without PSO, and the synergistic effect of PSO‐NLC with UV filter for photoprotective properties. The physical properties of NLC were optimized based on the mean particle size, polydispersity index, and storage stability. The optimized NLC consisted 10% lipid phase (3.5% carnauba wax, 3.5% beeswax, and 3.0% PSO) and 90% aqueous phase. After optimization, Uvinul® A Plus B was added in the optimized PSO‐NLC to produce a photoprotective formulation. Uvinul® A Plus B consisted of both UVA (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate) and UVB (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate) filters. The NLC produced with PSO and Uvinul® A Plus B had mean particle size of 135 ± 2 nm and showed good physical stability under storage time. Besides that, the NLC produced also proven to have positive effect in enhancing the entrapment efficiency and drug loading, which were 82.86 ± 0.15% and 55.41 ± 0.04%, respectively, and showed sun protection factor value of 16.61 ± 3.45. The results indicated the presence of synergistic effect among the PSO‐NLC with Uvinul® A Plus B.
Implementation of model predictive control in tracking dynamic optimal profiles of semi batch autocatalytic esterification reactor
Authors: Rohman Fakhrony S. , Muhammad Dinie , Aziz Norashid
Published: February 2020

Optimization of ester production that yields from sec‐butyl propionate in a batch operation mode need to be solved by dynamic–nonlinear programming‐based optimization because the dynamics of this autocatalytic esterification process can be described using the detailed first principle model. In order to maximize profit, the control vector parameterisation technique combined with a hybrid strategy, that is, a deterministic–stochastic nonlinear programming solver, is implemented by generating optimal temperature and feed flowrate trajectories. The final time and profit achieved is 60.0 min and RM 12.840 min−1, respectively. Model predictive control is then applied to track the optimal temperature trajectory obtained from the maximize profit study. The result reveals that the model predictive control is able to track the optimal temperature trajectory very well and consequently able to maintain the on‐spec product profit.
Reversible control of biomaterial properties for dynamically tuning cell behavior
Authors: Fumasi Fallon M. , Stephanopoulos Nicholas , Holloway Julianne L.
Published: February 2020

In the past decade, significant advances in chemistry and manufacturing have enabled the development of increasingly complex and controllable biomaterials. A key innovation is the design of dynamic biomaterials that allow for user‐specified, reversible, temporal control over material properties. In this review, we provide an overview of recent advancements in reversible biomaterials, including control of stiffness, chemistry, ligand presentation, and topography. These systems have wide‐ranging applications within biomedical engineering, including in vitro disease models and tissue‐engineered scaffolds to guide multistep biological processes.
FAM96B inhibits the senescence of dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Liang Hanbing , Li Wenzhi , Yang Haoqing , Cao Yangyang , Ge Lihua , Shi Ruitang , Fan Zhipeng , Dong Rui , Zhang Chen
Published: February 2020

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are considered a remarkable source for the regeneration of dental pulp tissues, but their therapeutic effectiveness remains limited, especially in elderly people. Previous studies found that senescence has a negative effect on the proliferation and differentiation potential of DPSCs. Moreover, numerous long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) and messenger RNA were significantly differentially regulated in DPSCs from young and elderly donors. However, the changes in DPSCs protein during senescence have not been addressed. In this study, differences in DPSC protein expression profiles and coexpression of protein and lncRNA were analyzed using proteomics and bioinformatics. The results showed 75 upregulated proteins and 69 downregulated proteins in DPSCs from elderly donors. Vasopressin‐regulated water reabsorption, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and protein export were the top four functional pathways associated with DPSCs. High mobility group N1 (HMGN1), HMGN2, UCHL1, and the family with sequence similarity 96 member B homeobox gene (FAM96B) were associated with DPSCs senescence. Then, we investigated FAM96B function in DPSCs. After FAM96B depletion, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) activity decreased, but the number of senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐gal) positive cells and the protein levels of p16, p53 were significantly increased. Gain‐of‐function assays suggested that FAM96B overexpression was positively correlated with TERT activity, but negatively correlated with the number of SA‐β‐gal positive cells and the protein levels of P16 and P53. Moreover, after FAM96B overexpression, the results showed a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase activity and an enhanced mineralization ability of DPSCs. The reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction results also showed that dentin sialophosphoprotein and osteocalcin were expressed at greater levels. The carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) results displayed that FAM96B increased the proliferation potential of DPSCs. Our study revealed candidate proteins that might be related to DPSCs senescence and provided information to elucidate the mechanism of the biological changes in DPSCs' aging. Moreover, FAM96B was demonstrated to play an important role in suppressing DPSCs senescence and promoting osteogenic differentiation and proliferation.
A Gold(I) Complex Containing an Oleanolic Acid Derivative as a Potential Anti‐Ovarian‐Cancer Agent by Inhibiting TrxR and Activating ROS‐Mediated ERS
Authors: Bian Mianli , Sun Ying , Liu Yuanhao , Xu Zhongren , Fan Rong , Liu Ziwen , Liu Wukun
Published: February 2020

Many cancer cells critically rely on antioxidant systems for cell survival and are vulnerable to further oxidative impairment triggered by agents generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, the classical design and development of inhibitors that target antioxidant defense enzymes such as thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) can be a promising anticancer strategy. Herein, it is shown that a gold(I) complex containing an oleanolic acid derivative (4 b) induces apoptosis of ovarian cancer A2780 cells by activating endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). It can inhibit TrxR enzyme activity to elevate ROS, mediate ERS and mitochondrial dysfunction, and finally leads to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of A2780 cells. Notably, this complex inhibits A2780 xenograft tumor growth accompanied by increased ERS level and decreased TrxR activity in tumor tissues.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Regioselective B(3)‐Alkenylation/B(3,6)‐Dialkenylation of o‐Carboranes by Direct B−H Activation
Authors: Cheng Ruofei , Qiu Zaozao , Xie Zuowei
Published: February 2020

Iridium‐catalyzed formal alkyne hydroboration with cage B−H of o‐carborane has been achieved, leading to the controlled synthesis of a series of 3,6‐[trans‐(AlkCH=CH)]2‐o‐carboranes (Alk=alkyl), 3‐cis‐(ArCH=CH)‐o‐carboranes (Ar=aryl), and 3‐cis‐(ArCH=CH)‐6‐trans‐(AlkCH=CH)‐o‐carboranes in high yields with excellent regio‐ and very good cis–trans selectivity. The most electron‐deficient B(3,6)−H vertices favor oxidative addition on electron‐rich metal centers, which is responsible for the regioselectivity. On the other hand, the configuration of the resultant olefinic units is dominated by alkyne substituents. Alkyl groups lead to a trans‐configuration whereas bulky aryl substitutions result in cis‐configuration.
More evidence suggesting that 1‐dose human papillomavirus vaccination may be effective
Authors: Brotherton Julia M. L. , Sundström Karin
Published: February 2020

Evidence is mounting that 1 dose of a human papillomavirus vaccine may be effective against cervical disease. This editorial discusses public health implications of an article in this issue of Cancer by Rodriguez et al, who have found estimated equal effectiveness associated with 1, 2, and 3 doses of a human papillomavirus vaccine against precancerous cervical lesions.
ZEBrA: Zebra finch Expression Brain Atlas—A resource for comparative molecular neuroanatomy and brain evolution studies
Authors: Lovell Peter V. , Wirthlin Morgan , Kaser Taylor , Buckner Alexa A. , Carleton Julia B. , Snider Brian R. , McHugh Anne K. , Tolpygo Alexander , Mitra Partha P. , Mello Claudio V.
Published: February 2020

An in‐depth understanding of the genetics and evolution of brain function and behavior requires a detailed mapping of gene expression in functional brain circuits across major vertebrate clades. Here we present theZebra finchExpressionBrainAtlas (ZEBrA;www.zebrafinchatlas.org, RRID: SCR_012988), a web‐based resource that maps the expression of genes linked to a broad range of functions onto the brain of zebra finches. ZEBrA is a first of its kind gene expression brain atlas for a bird species and a first for any sauropsid. ZEBrA's >3,200 high‐resolution digital images ofin situhybridized sections for ~650 genes (as of June 2019) are presented in alignment with an annotated histological atlas and can be browsed down to cellular resolution. An extensive relational database connects expression patterns to information about gene function, mouse expression patterns and phenotypes, and gene involvement in human diseases and communication disorders. By enabling brain‐wide gene expression assessments in a bird, ZEBrA provides important substrates for comparative neuroanatomy and molecular brain evolution studies. ZEBrA also provides unique opportunities for linking genetic pathways to vocal learning and motor control circuits, as well as for novel insights into the molecular basis of sex steroids actions, brain dimorphisms, reproductive and social behaviors, sleep function, and adult neurogenesis, among many fundamental themes.
Enhanced MRI‐Guided Gadolinium (III) Neutron Capture Therapy by Polymeric Nanocarriers Promoting Tumor Accumulation and Intracellular Delivery
Authors: Qin Changyuan , Hou Xuan , Khan Thahomina , Nitta Nobuhiro , Yanagawa Masashi , Sakurai Yuriko , Suzuki Minoru , Masunaga Shin‐Ichiro , Tanaka Hiroki , Sakurai Yoshinori , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Aoki Ichio , Yanagie Hironobu , Cabral Horacio
Published: February 2020

Gadolinium(III) (Gd(III)) chelates are promising compounds for developing MRI‐guided neutron capture therapies (NCT). However, despite their success as MRI contrast agents (CAs), current Gd(III) chelates do not present appropriate accumulation in tumors for effective NCT. To overcome this limitation, we developed a series of biocompatible polymeric nanocarriers conjugating Gd(III)‐chelates, i. e. Gd‐DOTA, as NCT agents with high MRI sensitivity and tumor delivery. These polymers were based on poly(aspartic acid) (P(Asp)) and were modified with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains having different molecular weight (Mw) for controlling stability and pharmacokinetics. The T1 relaxivity of the Gd‐DOTA conjugated polymers increased 2‐fold compared to that of clinically used Gd(III) CAs. In vivo, the PEG‐modified polymers promoted the accumulation in tumor tissues, enhancing the MRI contrast of tumors. After neutron irradiation, the nanocarriers effectively suppressed the tumor growth, particularly the PEG‐P(Asp‐Gd‐DOTA) with shorter PEG chain, which promoted higher intracellular delivery, supporting their potential as NCT agents.
Development of a machine learning model for extracting image prominent colors
Authors: Weingerl Primož , Hladnik Aleš , Javoršek Dejana
Published: February 2020

Although an image can consist of myriad different colors, due to the limitations of the human visual system and the mechanism of selective visual attention, only a limited number of them are prominent, that is, they stand out or are noticeable at first sight. In this article, a framework for building a model for extracting image prominent colors based on machine learning is presented. The model is learned on human‐extracted themes of prominent colors and uses numerous features, which were defined based on the properties of human visual system. For the purpose of this study, we constructed a database of images with their associated human‐extracted themes of prominent colors, which are open to the public and available to other researchers. The analysis of observers' data shows a high interobserver agreement on prominent color categories as well as high diversity of prominent colors. According to our results, the most influential factors on the perception of prominent colors are associated with color coverage (which should be adjusted with a saliency map), color properties—lightness and chroma, and diversity of colors. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on image prominent colors and first attempt to extract them with a model trained on the real data. The presented model has a high practical importance, since it can be used for extracting image colors in different scenarios, for example, for automatic color design, image categorization, as a descriptor in content‐based image retrieval, and image content analysis frameworks.
Genotypic‐specific response to exogenous applied salicylic acid in tall fescue under different irrigation conditions
Authors: Pirnajmedin Fatemeh , Majidi Mohammad Mahdi , Taleb Hadi , Saeidi Ghodratollah , Shojaiefar Samira
Published: February 2020

Salicylic acid (SA) is one of the endogenous plant growth regulators that play an important role in the regulation of plant growth and development in response to water deficit. Genotypic‐specific response to exogenous applied SA in terms of physiological, enzymatic activity, and yield traits is poorly understood in tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Wimm. syn. Festuca arundinacea Schreb.]. Twenty genotypes of tall fescue (selected from a broad germplasm) were assessed at field condition for morphological and physiological characteristics during 2016 and 2017 under three irrigation levels (normal, mild, and intense drought stress) in the presence of two SA concentrations (0 and 1 mM). Mild and intense drought stress conditions led to depression in photosynthetic pigments including chlorophyll a and b and total chlorophyll contents, plant height, crown diameter, and forage yield, despite increases in proline content, carotenoids, catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase activities. Application of SA decreased the adverse effects of drought stress by elevation of photosynthetic pigments and nonenzyme and enzymatic antioxidant activities and could enhance forage yield and drought tolerance in tall fescue genotypes. High genetic variation was observed among the genotypes in their response to the application of SA under drought stress conditions, and genotypes 3L and 1E were recognized as drought tolerant and stable genotypes for future breeding programs.
Canopy temperature of high‐nitrogen water‐stressed cotton
Authors: Coast Onoriode , Harden Steven , Conaty Warren C. , Brodrick Rose , Edwards Everard J.
Published: February 2020

Australian cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) farmers are adopting canopy temperature (Tc)‐based irrigation scheduling as a decision support tool to improve on‐farm production. High N supply, characteristic of the high‐yielding, furrow‐irrigated cotton system of Australia, might alter cotton Tc with implications for irrigation. We examined growth, physiological, and biochemical traits and changes in Tc of well‐watered and water‐stressed cotton plants supplied with high to excessive levels of N under glasshouse conditions. We also examined Tc, lint yield, and fiber quality of furrow‐irrigated cotton crop supplied with high N. In the glasshouse and under well‐watered conditions, high N supply stimulated plant growth and increased stomatal conductance and photosynthesis, resulting in cooler Tc. Under water deficit stress, high N also stimulated growth, increasing plant water demand and thus vulnerability to water stress, which manifested as warmer Tc. Water‐stressed plants supplied high N also showed reduced stomatal conductance, lower leaf water potential, and greater accumulation of leaf and xylem sap abscisic acid. Furrow‐irrigated crops supplied higher N also had higher Tc, but there was no gain in lint yield and fiber quality. The influence of high N on cotton Tc suggests that the need for accurate and reliable Tc‐based irrigation scheduling is paramount.
Non‐isolated high step‐up dual‐input DC‐DC converter with zero‐voltage transition
Authors: Mirlohi Sayed Hossein , Yazdani Mohammad Rouhollah , Adib Ehsan , Amini Mohammad Reza
Published: February 2020

In this paper, a non‐isolated dual‐input DC‐DC converter with zero‐voltage transition (ZVT) is proposed for renewable energy systems. The proposed converter has high step‐up conversion gain without using any transformer or coupled inductors. The proposed structure consists of two boost cells, one diode‐capacitor multiplier cell, and one ZVT auxiliary circuit. The main switches turn on and off under zero voltage condition and the auxiliary switch turns on under zero current condition and turns off under zero current and zero voltage conditions. Soft switching conditions, high efficiency, continuous current of input sources, low‐voltage stress on switches, and returning the energy of the auxiliary circuit to the boost cell connected to the lower‐voltage input are the main advantages of the proposed converter. The steady‐state analysis of the converter and operation intervals are discussed. A 160‐W prototype of the proposed converter is designed and implemented. Experimental results confirm the theoretical analysis. The efficiency reaches 96.7% at the nominal load by providing soft‐switching for all switches. The proposed topology can be extended for multi‐input applications by expanding the number of diode‐capacitor multiplier and input boost cells.
A SECPG model for purchase behavior analysis in social e‐commerce environment
Authors: Lv Junjie , Wang Tong , Wang Hao , Yu Jianye , Wang Yuanzhuo
Published: February 2020

In social e‐commerce environment, consumers share commodity information with others frequently. It is urgent for social e‐commerce enterprises or merchants to learn rules about commodity information dissemination so as to improve the purchase rate of goods and predict the sales trend at the same time. In this paper, we extend the social e‐commerce customers' purchasing behavior game model (SECPG model) to simulate multiple complex social e‐commerce networks, so as to further quantify internal relation between users' information dissemination and online shopping behavior to a certain extent and predict the purchase rate in diverse social e‐commerce networks. The concept of relationship update frequency is introduced to the updating mechanism in social e‐commerce, and simulations are carried out for networks with various update frequency of social relations. Numerical simulations show that individuals' reputation and cost‐to‐benefit ratio both have specific ranges of influence on the purchase rate in social e‐commerce environment. And relationship update frequency is also a key factor for users to spread purchase information.
Order statistics and random matrix theory of multicarrier continuous‐variable quantum key distribution
Authors: Gyongyosi Laszlo
Published: February 2020

In a multicarrier continuous‐variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) protocol, the information is granulated into Gaussian subcarrier CVs and the physical Gaussian link is divided into Gaussian sub‐channels. Here, we propose a combined mathematical framework of order statistics and random matrix theory for multicarrier continuous‐variable quantum key distribution. The analysis covers the study of the distribution of the sub‐channel transmittance coefficients in the presence of a Gaussian noise and the utilization of the moment generation function (MGF) in the error analysis. We reveal the mathematical formalism of sub‐channel selection and formulation of the transmittance coefficients and show a reduced complexity progressive sub‐channel scanning method. We define a framework to evaluate the statistical properties of the information flowing processes in multicarrier CVQKD protocols. Using random matrix theory, we express the achievable secret key rates and study the efficiency of the adaptive multicarrier quadrature division‐multiuser quadrature allocation (AMQD‐MQA) multiple‐access multicarrier CVQKD. The proposed combined framework is particularly convenient for the characterization of the physical processes of experimental multicarrier CVQKD.
Hypoxic conditions interrupt flood‐response movements of three lowland river fish species: Implications for flow restoration in modified landscapes
Authors: Thiem Jason D. , Wooden Ian J. , Baumgartner Lee J. , Butler Gavin L. , Taylor Matthew D. , Watts Robyn J.
Published: February 2020

Movement and migration of freshwater fish for the purpose of feeding, dispersal, and spawning are essential life history components often linked to river flows. Understanding movement responses to abiotic stimuli such as river flows is crucial to inform effective management, especially considering that river regulation is contributing to global population declines. We examined the flow‐related movements of three species of lowland river fish endemic to eastern Australia (golden perch Macquaria ambigua, Murray cod Maccullochella peelii, and silver perch Bidyanus bidyanus) over an 18‐month period in a large anabranch system of the Murray River, south‐eastern Australia. The telemetry study encompassed periods of extreme low river discharge, moderate discharge rates within the normal regulated operating range for this system, and a large overbank flood event that created hypoxic blackwater conditions and led to significant fish kill events. Movement of all three species was strongly affected by discharge rates, and although the direction and magnitude of responses varied by species, river discharge in general had a significant positive effect on the scale of movement. All species initiated large‐scale directional movements in response to flooding, and some emigration occurred; however, hypoxia‐induced mortality ultimately killed a large proportion of the tagged fish. The results of the current study highlight the significant challenges of managing flow restoration in highly modified landscapes that are prone to hypoxic conditions. We reiterate the value of connectivity, especially where it enables fish to access suitable refuges during periods of poor water quality and subsequently recolonize when conditions improve.
Functional quality evaluation and shelf life study of synbiotic yacon juice
Authors: Dahal Sagar , Ojha Pravin , Karki Tika Bahadur
Published: February 2020

The research aimed to utilize the prebiotic potential of yacon fruit by preparation of synbiotic yacon juice containing probiotic microorganism Lactobacillus acidophilus (La5) and studying the changes in physicochemical properties during storage. The fresh juice extracted was added with probiotic microorganism and was subjected for storage at refrigerated (4°C) and room condition (25°C) along with control (nonfermented) juice. The viability of probiotic strains in the juice was found to be at the satisfactory level (106 CFU/ml) for 27 and 15 days, respectively, in refrigerated and room condition. Total soluble solid, pH, acidity, bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid, carotenoid content, and total phenol), and antioxidant capacity of the products were evaluated. Total soluble solid of the prepared synbiotic juice stored at refrigerated and nonrefrigerated conditions decreased from 7.8 ± 0.05 to 5.5 ± 0.26 and 5.3 ± 0.10 while the acidity increased from 0.067 ± 0.05 to 0.80 ± 0.06 and 1.02 ± 0.04 after 27 and 15 days of storage, respectively. Similarly, yeast and mold count, total plate count, and the coliform count were determined during the storage period. The low amount of yeast and mold count and absence of coliform in the synbiotic juice even after 27 and 15 days of storage indicated that the synbiotic juice can be continued to be consumed as a normal juice even after the viability decreased below the satisfactory level. Ascorbic acid, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity were higher in fermented juice when compared to control juice stored at the refrigerated conditions for the same period (p < .05). High therapeutic properties and numerous health benefits of yacon, when combined with the health benefits of probiotic bacteria, could lead to the development of commercial beverages with high health and nutritional values.
PANDA: Prioritization of autism‐genes using network‐based deep‐learning approach
Authors: Zhang Yu , Chen Yuanzhu , Hu Ting
Published: February 2020

Understanding the genetic background of complex diseases and disorders plays an essential role in the promising precision medicine. The evaluation of candidate genes, however, requires time‐consuming and expensive experiments given a large number of possibilities. Thus, computational methods have seen increasing applications in predicting gene‐disease associations. We proposed a bioinformatics framework, Prioritization of Autism‐genes using Network‐based Deep‐learning Approach (PANDA). Our approach aims to identify autism‐genes across the human genome based on patterns of gene–gene interactions and topological similarity of genes in the interaction network. PANDA trains a graph deep learning classifier using the input of the human molecular interaction network and predicts and ranks the probability of autism association of every node (gene) in the network. PANDA was able to achieve a high classification accuracy of 89%, outperforming three other commonly used machine learning algorithms. Moreover, the gene prioritization ranking list produced by PANDA was evaluated and validated using an independent large‐scale exome‐sequencing study. The top 10% of PANDA‐ranked genes were found significantly enriched for autism association.
Uncommon tumors of temporomandibular joint: An institutional experience and review
Authors: Hamza Ameer , Gidley Paul W. , Learned Kim O. , Hanna Ehab Y. , Bell Diana
Published: February 2020

Background

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) harbors a myriad of pathologic alterations including arthritides and benign and malignant neoplasms.

Methods

Herein, we describe our institutional experience of some uncommon and unusual synovial pathologies of the TMJ along with a review of literature. We searched through the archives of department of pathology and institutional electronic medical record for specimens of TMJ between 1999 and 2019. Hematoxylin and eosin slides were reviewed and data (final diagnosis, age, gender, clinical presentation, tumor size, treatment modality, recurrence, and vital status) were collected.

Results

A total of seven cases were identified including four cases of synovial chrondromatosis; and one case each of tenosynovial giant cell tumor, localized type, tenosynovial giant cell tumor, diffuse type, and synovial sarcoma.

Conclusions

The article emphasizes on the clinical, radiologic, pathologic, and molecular features of these uncommon entities. The differential diagnosis of each entity is also discussed. Current updates in the management are also reviewed.
Artspace: Enabling young women’s recovery through visual arts: A qualitative study
Authors: Brooks Miriam , Hooker Claire , Barclay Lesley
Published: February 2020

Issue addressed

This article reports the qualitative evaluation of “Artspace,” an innovative clinical program combining creative arts with physical and mental health care for young women. The program, provided since 2004, comprises weekly visual arts sessions alongside a youth health clinic offering drop‐in appointments with a nurse, GP and counsellor.

Methods

A qualitative evaluation of Artspace was conducted between 2016 and 2017.

Results

The evaluation showed that Artspace was particularly beneficial for those clients who had considerable exposure to social adversity and trauma, and were experiencing related serious health impacts. Artspace facilitated their recovery by enabling equitable access facilitation, social inclusion, creating a “holding” environment, and through the directly therapeutic benefits of artist‐led arts processes.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the positive impact of artist‐led programs such as Artspace. It also attests to the importance of long‐term sustainability of services, to allow the time needed for young people to experience genuine and sustained recovery, and to reduce the otherwise likely disadvantages associated with mental and physical health problems, as they move into their adult lives.

So what?

Youth health researchers have been recommending arts programs at health services as a means of engaging young people in health care for over 15 years, however, it remains an underutilised approach in primary care settings. Our evaluation affirms the effectiveness of art programs for this, and also demonstrates that art programs can be a key contributor to recovery from the serious health impacts of adversity and trauma.
Administrative effectiveness in the production of maternal health services in four Mexican states
Authors: Serván‐Mori Edson , Bravo‐Ruiz María Lilia , Gómez‐Dantés Octavio
Published: February 2020

Objective

To generate evidence on the influence of good management of resources in the delivery of maternal health services in Mexico.

Material and methods

We studied the managerial processes involved in the provision of maternal health services in four states of Mexico exhibiting differences in maternal mortality, maternal health service coverage, and maternal health expenditure. Analysis was based on five analytical dimensions of the cyclic process model designed by the National Council for the Evaluation of Social Development Policy in Mexico. We describe the processes, identify areas of opportunity, and discuss opinions concerning the relevance, timeliness, and sufficiency of human and material resources employed in the delivery of maternal health services.

Results

Managerial performance in the four entities was very heterogeneous. In most of the analyzed entities, implementation of the processes was rated from “average” to “very good.”

Conclusion

In order to contribute to universal coverage of maternal health services, managerial processes at the state level need to ensure an adequate, timely, and sufficient supply of resources.
The new poor person's bankruptcy: Comparative perspectives
Authors: Ramsay Iain
Published: February 2020

A significant policy issue in personal insolvency concerns the debtor with little income and few assets who may be unable to afford bankruptcy in those jurisdictions which require payment to access the individual bankruptcy system. The challenge of addressing the situation of these debtors is one experienced both by long standing personal insolvency systems and newer system in emerging markets. This article introduces a special issue of the International Insolvency Review which considers the responses of several common law, civil law and mixed regimes to this policy topic. The article discusses the background to the English Debt Relief Order enacted in 2009 as a procedure for low‐income debtors, outlines salient issues raised by its implementation and discusses research themes related to the existence of the “No‐Income‐No Asset” debtor, including the structure and financing of the bankruptcy system, the contribution of NINA procedures to access to justice, the role of intermediaries in the bankruptcy system and the political economy of bankruptcy reform.