bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landscape analyses using eDNA metabarcoding and Earth observation predict community biodiversity in California
Authors: Lin Meixi , Simons Ariel Levi , Harrigan Ryan J. , Curd Emily E. , Schneider Fabian D. , Ruiz‐Ramos Dannise V. , Gold Zack , Osborne Melisa G. , Shirazi Sabrina , Schweizer Teia M. , Moore Tiara N. , Fox Emma A. , Turba Rachel , Garcia‐Vedrenne Ana E. , Helman Sarah K. , Rutledge Kelsi , Mejia Maura Palacios , Marwayana Onny , Munguia Ramos Miroslava N. , Wetzer Regina , Pentcheff N. Dean , McTavish Emily Jane , Dawson Michael N. , Shapiro Beth , Wayne Robert K. , Meyer Rachel S.
Published: May 2021

Ecosystems globally are under threat from ongoing anthropogenic environmental change. Effective conservation management requires more thorough biodiversity surveys that can reveal system‐level patterns and that can be applied rapidly across space and time. Using modern ecological models and community science, we integrate environmental DNA and Earth observations to produce a time snapshot of regional biodiversity patterns and provide multi‐scalar community‐level characterization. We collected 278 samples in spring 2017 from coastal, shrub, and lowland forest sites in California, a complex ecosystem and biodiversity hotspot. We recovered 16,118 taxonomic entries from eDNA analyses and compiled associated traditional observations and environmental data to assess how well they predicted alpha, beta, and zeta diversity. We found that local habitat classification was diagnostic of community composition and distinct communities and organisms in different kingdoms are predicted by different environmental variables. Nonetheless, gradient forest models of 915 families recovered by eDNA analysis and using BIOCLIM variables, Sentinel‐2 satellite data, human impact, and topographical features as predictors, explained 35% of the variance in community turnover. Elevation, sand percentage, and photosynthetic activities (NDVI32) were the top predictors. In addition to this signal of environmental filtering, we found a positive relationship between environmentally predicted families and their numbers of biotic interactions, suggesting environmental change could have a disproportionate effect on community networks. Together, these analyses show that coupling eDNA with environmental predictors including remote sensing data has capacity to test proposed Essential Biodiversity Variables and create new landscape biodiversity baselines that span the tree of life.
Over three decades, a classic winner starts to lose in a Caribbean coral community
Authors: Edmunds Peter J. , Didden Craig , Frank Karl
Published: May 2021

The biological world is rapidly changing following decades of anthropogenic disturbances. Under these conditions, species with stable or increasing abundances have been described as winners with the potential for future success, but this assertion is unreliable without knowledge of the selective basis of winning. The incentive to find winners is acute for reef corals, for which large declines in abundance have motivated restoration efforts targeting winning corals. On Caribbean reefs, Porites astreoides has emerged as a potential winner, but the demographic basis of this categorization is poorly known. Here we test for demographic benchmarks of winning in this species by quantifying abundances and sizes of colonies over 28 yr on the south coast of St. John, US Virgin Islands. From 1992 to 2001, the density of colonies of P. astreoides showed little variation while colonies increased in size by 58%, but from 2002 to 2019, population density increased 2.7‐fold, and colony size declined by 41%; accompanying these trends, the mean absolute cover of Porites spp. declined by 46% from 2010 to 2019. Low recruitment and rising abundances of colonies ≤4 cm diameter suggest that partial mortality and fission depressed colony sizes. The reversal over three decades of a positive demographic trend for a ubiquitous coral underscores the challenges of identifying winners from short‐term population performance. Without a mechanistic understanding of fitness, the search for winners based on demographic trends may be futile.
Prolonged impacts of past agriculture and ungulate overabundance on soil fungal communities in restored forests
Authors: Tatsumi Shinichi , Matsuoka Shunsuke , Fujii Saori , Makoto Kobayashi , Osono Takashi , Isbell Forest , Mori Akira S.
Published: May 2021

Soil fungi can help improve ecosystem restoration, yet our understanding of how they reassemble in degraded land is limited. Here, using DNA metabarcoding, we studied the fungal community structure in reforested sites following agricultural abandonment and ungulate overabundance. Two treatments, namely “reforestation using different numbers of tree species” and “deer exclusion,” have been applied for multiple decades in the study sites. We found that local fungal richness (alpha diversity) and total fungal richness (gamma diversity) were 1.9–2.9 and 1.3–1.9 times greater, respectively, in reforested stands than in natural forests. These results were regardless of the number of tree species planted in the reforested stands. Conversely, reforested stands had a spatially homogenized community structure with relatively lower degrees of compositional dissimilarity among sites within each stand (beta diversity). These findings were attributable to lower environmental heterogeneity, stronger dispersal limitation, and a comparatively shorter time since the onset of community assembly in reforested stands. Deer exclosures had no detectable effect on fungal community structure. Overall, the agricultural legacy in fungal community structure appears to have persisted for decades, even under proactive restoration of aboveground vegetation. Direct human intervention belowground may therefore be necessary for the recovery of soil biota once altered.
Ryanodine receptor and immune‐related molecules in diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tian Cheng‐Ju , Zhang Jing‐Hua , Liu Jinfeng , Ma Zhuang , Zhen Zhong
Published: May 2021

Hyperglycaemia is a major aetiological factor in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Excessive hyperglycaemia increases the levels of reactive carbonyl species (RCS), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in the heart and causes derangements in calcium homeostasis, inflammation and immune‐system disorders. Ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2) plays a key role in excitation–contraction coupling during heart contractions, including rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the heart. Cardiac inflammation has been indicated in part though interleukin 1 (IL‐1) signals, supporting a role for B and T lymphocytes in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Some of the post‐translational modifications of the ryanodine receptor (RyR) by RCS, ROS and RNS stress are known to affect its gating and Ca2+ sensitivity, which contributes to RyR dysregulation in diabetic cardiomyopathy. RyRs and immune‐related molecules are important signalling species in many physiological and pathophysiological processes in various heart and cardiovascular diseases. However, little is known regarding the mechanistic relationship between RyRs and immune‐related molecules in diabetes, as well as the mechanisms mediating complex communication among cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts and immune cells. This review highlights new findings on the complex cellular communications in the pathogenesis and progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy. We discuss potential therapeutic applications targeting RyRs and immune‐related molecules in diabetic complications.
Investor sentiment, misreaction, and the skewness‐return relationship
Authors: Chen Chin‐Ho
Published: May 2021

This study examines the effect of investor sentiment on misreaction and explores the time‐series relationship between risk‐neutral skewness (RNS) and subsequent stock market returns contingent on sentiment‐induced overreaction. Using the adjusted put‐call implied volatility spread as a misreaction proxy and Bakshi et al.'s method to measure RNS, we find that pessimism leads to overreaction. This overreaction could strengthen the negative RNS‐return relationship, with higher market returns following lower RNS. Our results are robust even after excluding the sample period of the 2008 financial crisis, profiting from market‐timing strategies based on the levels of RNS and overreaction, and using an alternative RNS measure.
Cancer incidence and cancer death in relation to tobacco smoking in a population‐based Australian cohort study
Authors: Weber Marianne F. , Sarich Peter E. A. , Vaneckova Pavla , Wade Stephen , Egger Sam , Ngo Preston , Joshy Grace , Goldsbury David E. , Yap Sarsha , Feletto Eleonora , Vassallo Amy , Laaksonen Maarit A. , Grogan Paul , O'Connell Dianne L. , Banks Emily , Canfell Karen
Published: May 2021

Tobacco smoke is a known carcinogen, but the magnitude of smoking‐related cancer risk depends on country‐specific, generational smoking patterns. We quantified cancer risk in relation to smoking in a population‐based cohort, the 45 and Up Study (2006‐2009) in New South Wales, Australia. Cox proportional hazards regressions estimated adjusted hazard ratios (HR) by self‐reported smoking history at baseline (2006‐2009) for incident, primary cancers via linkage to cancer registry data to 2013 and cancer death data to 2015. Among 229 028 participants aged ≥45 years, 18 475 cancers and 5382 cancer deaths occurred. Current‐smokers had increased risks of all cancers combined (HR = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34‐1.51), cancers of the lung (HR = 17.66, 95%CI, 14.65‐21.29), larynx (HR = 11.29, 95%CI, 5.49‐23.20), head‐and‐neck (HR = 2.53, 95%CI, 1.87‐3.41), oesophagus (HR = 3.84, 95%CI, 2.33‐6.35), liver (HR = 4.07, 95%CI, 2.55‐6.51), bladder (HR = 3.08, 95%CI, 2.00‐4.73), pancreas (HR = 2.68, 95%CI, 1.93‐3.71), colorectum (HR = 1.31, 95%CI, 1.09‐1.57) and unknown primary site (HR = 3.26, 95%CI, 2.19‐4.84) versus never‐smokers. Hazards increased with increasing smoking intensity; compared to never‐smokers, lung cancer HR = 9.22 (95%CI, 5.14‐16.55) for 1‐5 cigarettes/day and 38.61 (95%CI, 25.65‐58.13) for >35 cigarettes/day. Lung cancer risk was lower with quitting at any age but remained higher than never‐smokers for quitters aged >25y. By age 80y, an estimated 48.3% of current‐smokers (41.1% never‐smokers) will develop cancer, and 14% will develop lung cancer, including 7.7% currently smoking 1‐5 cigarettes/day and 26.4% for >35 cigarettes/day (1.0% never‐smokers). Cancer risk for Australian smokers is significant, even for 'light' smokers. These contemporary estimates underpin the need for continued investment in strategies to prevent smoking uptake and facilitate cessation, which remain key to reducing cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide.
Exposure to N‐monoacetyl‐p‐phenylenediamine impaired ovarian function in mice
Authors: Yu Liliang , Zhai Jingwei , Wang Yingxiong , Geng Yanqing , Chen Xuemei , Wen Yixian , Tang Hongyu , Yu Rao , Zhang Yue , Liu Xueqing
Published: May 2021

p‐Phenylenediamine (PPD) is the main constituent of permanent hair dye and is also widely used in the photographic and rubber industries. PPD and its metabolites have been shown to increase the risk of cancer (especially ovarian cancer); however, their effect on female reproduction is unclear. We investigated the effects of the PPD metabolite N‐monoacetyl‐PPD (MAPPD) on mouse blastocyst development and ovarian function. Sixty 8‐week‐old female Kunming mice were administered at 0‐, 100‐, and 300‐mg/kg/day MPPD by gavage for 28 days. KGN (human ovarian granulosa cells) were treated with MAPPD at concentrations of 0, 50, 100, and 300 μg/ml for 48 h. The number of abnormal blastocysts increased on gestation day 3.5 in all treatment groups. Compared with the control group, in MAPPD exposed group, the number of antral follicles decreased, the levels of E2 and P4 decreased in ovarian tissue, the serum levels of E2, P4, luteinizing hormone (LH), and T decreased, and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) increased. The expression of FSH receptor (FSHR) and LH receptor (LHR) was significantly downregulated, and the level of oxidative stress was significantly increased. In KGN cells, the level of reactive oxygen species increased in a dose‐dependent manner, and the mRNA levels of FSHR, LHR, and aromatase increased. These results suggest that MAPPD inhibits FSH‐ and LH‐induced aromatase activity by causing oxidative stress, which decrease hormone levels, leading to abnormal follicle development. Meanwhile, MAPPD exposure could affect early embryonic development abnormalities by affecting the quality of ovum.
Neurobehavior and neuron damage following prolonged exposure of silver nanoparticles with/without polyvinylpyrrolidone coating in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Li Wenhua , Li Jiangyan , Chang Xiaoru , Niu Shuyan , Wu Tianshu , Kong Lu , Zhang Ting , Tang Meng , Xue Yuying
Published: May 2021

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have become widespread in the environment with increasing industrial applications. But the studies about their potential health risks are far from enough, especially in neurotoxic effects. This study aimed to investigate the neurotoxic effects of longer‐term exposure (prolonged exposure for 48 h and chronic exposure for 6 days) of 20nm AgNPs with/without polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) coating at low concentrations (0.01–10 mg·L−1) to Caenorhabditis elegans. The results suggested that exposure to AgNPs induced damage to nematode survival, with the longest and relative average life span reduced. Exposure to AgNPs caused neurotoxicity on locomotion behaviors (head thrashes, body bends, pharyngeal pumping frequency, and defecation interval) and sensory perception behaviors (chemotaxis assay and thermotaxis assay), as well as impaired dopaminergic, GABAergic, and cholinergic neurons, except for glutamatergic, based on the alters fluorescence intensity, in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Further investigations suggested that the low‐dose AgNPs (0.01–0.1 mg·L−1) exposure raises receptors of GABAergic and dopamine in C. elegans at the genetic level, whereas opposite results were observed at higher doses (1–10 mg·L−1), which implied that AgNPs could cause neurotoxicity by impairing neurotransmitter delivery. The PVP‐AgNPs could cause a higher fatality rate and neurotoxicity at the same dose. Notably, AgNPs did not cause any deleterious effect on nematodes at the lowest dose of 0.01 mg·L−1. In general, these results suggested that AgNPs possess the neurotoxic potential in C. elegans and provided useful information to understand the neurotoxicity of AgNPs, which would offer an inspiring perspective on the safe application.
A meta‐analytic review of the relationship between attachment styles and posttraumatic growth
Authors: Gleeson Amanda , Curran David , Reeves Rachel , J. Dorahy Martin , Hanna Donncha
Published: May 2021

Objective

The present review aimed to examine the relationship between attachment styles and posttraumatic growth in adults exposed to traumatizing events.

Method

A systematic literature search resulted in the inclusion of 14 studies in the review. Four correlational meta‐analyses of the relationship between the attachment styles of secure, dismissive, preoccupied, and fearful, and posttraumatic growth, were conducted.

Results

These revealed a significant small positive relationship between secure attachment and posttraumatic growth (r =  0.21, p < 0.001); a significant small negative relationship between dismissive attachment and posttraumatic growth (r = −0.12, p < 0.001), and a weak relationship between preoccupied attachment and posttraumatic growth (r = −0.04, p = 0.235), and fearful attachment and posttraumatic growth (r = 0.08, p = 0.248).

Conclusions

The relationship between attachment styles and posttraumatic growth is modest and may be better explained by other variables. Nonetheless, findings provide useful information for clinicians regarding the potential small impact of attachment style following traumatizing exposure. Implications for future research are highlighted with respect to methodological rigor and the role of other potentially influential variables.
An efficient one pot I2/DMSO mediated synthesis and molecular modeling of novel fused pyrimidine‐chromone hybrids bearing potential antibacterial and antifungal pharmacophores sites
Authors: Pathan Naziyanaz , Ali Parvez , Rahatgaonkar Anjali , Al‐Mousa Khalid
Published: May 2021

A series of novel ethyl‐l, 1, 2, 3, 6‐tetrahydro‐4‐methyl‐1‐(6‐methyl‐4‐oxo‐4H‐chromene‐2‐yl)‐2‐oxo/thioxo‐6‐phenyl pyrimidine‐5‐carboxylate compounds (2a–2k) were synthesized using I2/DMSO as a competent and cost‐effective catalyst in one pot green solvent system from corresponding chalcones (1a–1k) in better yields. IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, Mass, and X‐ray diffraction spectroscopic techniques were used for the characterization of newly synthesized compounds. All the compounds were tested for in‐vitro antibacterial activities against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella abony, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Escherichia coli. Antifungal activities were also performed against Candida albicans and Aspergilus niger. It was found that the presence of electron withdrawing group on the aromatic ring attached to chromone ring increases the antibacterial activities (2g, 2h, and 2k); while the presence of electron releasing groups decreases activities. The presence of electron donating groups (─OCH3, ─Cl), on the phenyl ring attached to pyrimidine skeleton influenced negatively for the antibacterial activities.
Greener synthetic approach for the preparation of substituted flexible dimeric pyridinium salts and its importance
Authors: Chitrarasu Manikandan , Senthilnathan Govindaraj , Kilivelu Ganesan
Published: May 2021

We have prepared substituted flexible dimeric pyridinium bromide using conventional and greener approach. Solvent‐free solid phase (greener) approach is superior than the conventional owing to nontoxic, easy workup procedure, and 20 times lesser reaction time. Toxic organic solvents and column chromatography are avoided. Aldol condensation reaction is studied with various substituted aromatic aldehyde and compared with available recent literatures. Synthesized substituted flexible dimeric pyridinium salts acted as potential catalysts because of their better performance even in low concentration, recyclability, and activation of two molecules of aldehydes at the same time for aldol condensation reaction.
OTC deficiency in females: Phenotype‐genotype correlation based on a 130‐family cohort
Authors: Gobin‐Limballe Stephanie , Ottolenghi Chris , Reyal Fabien , Arnoux Jean‐Baptiste , Magen Maryse , Simon Marie , Brassier Anaïs , Jabot‐Hanin Fabienne , Lonlay Pascale De , Pontoizeau Clement , Guirat Manel , Rio Marlene , Gesny Roselyne , Gigarel Nadine , Royer Ghislaine , Steffann Julie , Munnich Arnold , Bonnefont Jean‐Paul
Published: May 2021

OTC deficiency, an inherited urea cycle disorder, is caused by mutations in the X‐linked OTC gene. Phenotype‐genotype correlations are well understood in males but still poorly known in females. Taking advantage of a cohort of 130 families (289 females), we assessed the relative contribution of OTC enzyme activity, X chromosome inactivation, and OTC gene sequencing to genetic counseling in heterozygous females. Twenty two percent of the heterozygous females were clinically affected, with episodic (11%), chronic (7.5%), or neonatal forms of the disease (3.5%). Overall mortality rate was 4%. OTC activity, ranging from 0% to 60%, did not correlate with phenotype at the individual level. Analysis of multiple samples from 4 mutant livers showed intra‐hepatic variability of OTC activity and X inactivation profile (range of variability: 30% and 20%, respectively) without correlation between both parameters for 3 of the 4 livers. Ninety disease‐causing variants were found, 27 of which were novel. Mutations were classified as “mild” or “severe,” based on male phenotypes and/or in silico prediction. In our cohort, a serious disease occurred in 32% of females with a severe mutation, compared to 4% in females with a mild mutation (odds ratio = 1.365; P = 1.6e‐06). These data should help prenatal diagnosis for heterozygous females and genetic counseling after fortuitous findings of OTC variants in pangenomic sequencing.
B10 cells decrease fibrosis progression following cardiac injury partially by IL-10 production and regulating hyaluronan secretion
Authors: Chen Rong , Liu Fang , Xia Lin , Che Nan , Tian Yu , Cao Yuwen , Zhang Shiqing , Xu Huaxi , Su Zhaoliang
Published: May 2021

B10 cells play negative roles in inflammatory disorders by producing IL-10. However, their effects on fibrosis have not been elucidated. Therefore, this study was conducted to examine the dynamic changes of B10 cell frequency and their potential role in cardiac fibrosis. We found that the frequency of B10 cells was significantly increased, and they participated in the regression of fibrosis via IL-10, particularly by accelerating hyaluronan secretion and inhibiting collagen deposition. In vivo, hyaluronan ablation or treatment significantly restricted cardiac fibrosis development. hyaluronan-induced conversion of M1/M2 Mc was dependent on the size of hyaluronan. Low molecular weight hyaluronan promoted the conversion to M1 Mϕ, whereas medium and high molecular weight hyaluronan accelerated Mϕ transdifferentiation into the M2 phenotype. Adoptive transfer of B10 cells significantly attenuated collagen deposition whereas CD19−/− mice with reduced B10 cells exacerbated fibrosis following cardiac injury. Our results provide new evidence suggesting that B10 cells exert antifibrotic effects by regulating the extracellular matrix composition during cardiac injury, and also highlight that B10 cells may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate for managing cardiac fibrosis-associated disorders.
The modulation of structural stability of horseradish peroxidase as a consequence of macromolecular crowding
Authors: Hasan Samra , Naeem Aabgeena
Published: May 2021

Macromolecular crowding plays an inevitable role in all biological processes influencing association, conformation, and other characteristics of proteins. Present study is based on the effect of macromolecular crowding on structure of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme. Concentration‐dependent conformational changes induced by crowding agents, dextran 70 and polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐4000, were monitored employing a range of biophysical techniques. The intrinsic fluorescence spectra showed transition of protein from native to unfolded state. Marked increase in 8‐Anilino‐1‐naphthalene‐sulphonoic acid and Thioflavin T fluorescence indicated presence of non‐native moieties with 80 mg/mL dextran. Enhanced absorbance in turbidity, Soret, and Congo red in corroboration with scattering intensity at 350nm results revealed incidence of HRP aggregates. A new peak around 218 nm in CD spectra pointed towards change in secondary structure towards β‐sheets. Significant loss of enzyme activity upon structural disruption was seen. Comet assay demonstrated DNA damage and genotoxic nature of HRP aggregates, supporting spectroscopic, and fluorescence results. The normalized results were obtained with 120 mg/mL PEG‐4000 close to that of native HRP implying no disruptive effect on structure. It can be hypothesized that macromolecular crowding is a vital element, which can have diverse effects. In this study, dextran 70 was observed to have pro‐aggregatory effect while enhanced stability of native enzyme was witnessed with PEG. Hence, it can be stated that PEG has potentially better crowder as it helps retain the native enzyme structure. Routine addition of crowding agents is recommended if biological molecules are to be studied under more physiologically appropriate environments.
Dual circularly polarized series‐fed patch antenna array integrated with beam switching network
Authors: Ahmad Noman , Aslam Javaria , Nawaz Haq , Shahid Humayun , Shoaib Nosherwan
Published: May 2021

A reconfigurable patch array antenna exhibiting circular polarization as well as pattern switching capabilities is presented in this work. The proposed 2 × 2 series‐fed structure is capable of generating 11 switched beams at a resonant frequency of 2.44 GHz. The work also hypothesis an unsophisticated method polarization and radiation pattern diversity. An effective reduction from 2N to N for feed ports and from N to N/2 for phase shifters has also been reported. The design is realized on a single‐layered low‐cost FR‐4 epoxy laminate having a thickness of 1.6 mm. The performance evaluation of the fabricated prototype exhibits good agreement between the computationally evaluated and the experimentally obtained results, yielding six circularly polarized and five 45° slant polarized switched beams in two‐dimensional space with appreciably high gain, acceptable side lobe level, and decent impedance matching characteristics for all constituent ports. In this work, a simple four‐port beam switching network has been proposed to synthesize the 11 switched beams at an elevation angle of 0°, ±10° and ±21° in xoz‐plane and yoz‐plane with both circular polarizations and 45° slant polarization. It does not require any additional digital circuit or complex geometry as reported in recent works.
Ranking and characterization of precipitation extremes for the past 113 years for Indian western Himalayas
Authors: Raj Saurav , Shukla Roopam , Trigo Ricardo M. , Merz Bruno , Rathinasamy Maheswaran , Ramos Alexandre M. , Agarwal Ankit
Published: May 2021

Globally, mountain systems are unevenly exposed to risks of extreme precipitation. Within the Himalayan region, precipitation extremes are a rising concern, but their current understanding is limited. In this study, we use 113 years of precipitation data to rank and characterize precipitation extremes in the Indian Western Himalayas (IWH). Our statistical ranking method integrates precipitation spatial extent and its intensity across different durations for determining the severity of extreme events. The proposed ranking method accounts for multi‐day duration ranking method to capture persistent precipitation episodes. Results show that the method accurately detects and ranks the most extreme precipitation events that occurred in the IWH and indicate locations of these events. Our results highlight that critical long duration events in the region (e.g., 10 days) are missed at ranks at shorter duration (e.g., 2–3 days), thereby highlighting the importance to multi‐day precipitation extremes ranking. In addition, the proposed ranking method provides information about the event duration that will be associated with the highest impact on society, carrying high significance. Our findings are valuable for flood risk management and disaster risk reduction.
Real‐time Raman spectroscopy measurements to monitor the effect of polypropylene crosslinking on its true mechanical behaviour
Authors: Letoffe Adrien , Ponçot Marc , Huchard Thomas , Hupont Sebastien , Hoppe Sandrine , Royaud Isabelle
Published: May 2021

In‐situ Raman spectroscopy analysis to mechanical tests were performed to investigate the deformation micromechanisms of an isotactic polypropylene‐grafted maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MAH) depending on the crosslinking degree provided by functional polyether amine molecules. The switch from brittle to highly ductile mechanical behaviours was focused in terms of microstructure modifications in real time during stretching. From the Raman spectral analysis, crystallinity index and macromolecular chains orientation factors for both crystalline and amorphous phases were determined. A new orientation factor relative to the polyether segments was proposed. The results shown allow a more complete understanding of the proper micromechanisms of deformation involved in each phase and their interaction between one another. These results also highlight the impact of the crosslinking reaction on the material resilience improvement.
Advances in Ultrasound Imaging in Rheumatology—What Do They Mean and What Challenges Do They Pose? The Example of Microvascular Imaging
Authors: Almeida Diogo Esperança , Costa Emanuel , Cerqueira Marcos
Published: May 2021

Musculoskeletal ultrasound is an important tool for the monitorization of inflammatory rheumatic diseases, with subclinical synovitis being frequently detected in ultrasound scans of patients in clinical remission. It has been shown, for example, that the presence of Power Doppler signal synovial membrane has prognostic value for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Microvascular imaging technologies significantly improve the sensitivity for slow‐flow vessels and may potentially detect subclinical inflammation when Power Doppler fails to do so. The authors briefly discuss the implications of the use of such techniques in rheumatology setting and review available evidence.
Salivary metabolites are promising non‐invasive biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma and chronic liver disease
Authors: Hershberger Courtney E. , Rodarte Alejandro I. , Siddiqi Shirin , Moro Amika , Acevedo‐Moreno Lou‐Anne , Brown J. Mark , Allende Daniela S. , Aucejo Federico , Rotroff Daniel M.
Published: May 2021

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Improved tools are needed for detecting HCC so that treatment can begin as early as possible. Current diagnostic approaches and existing biomarkers, such as alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) lack sensitivity, resulting in too many false negative diagnoses. Machine learning may be able to identify combinations of biomarkers that provide more robust predictions and improve sensitivity for detecting HCC. We sought to evaluate whether metabolites in patient saliva could distinguish those with HCC, cirrhosis, and those with no documented liver disease.

Methods and Results

We tested 125 salivary metabolites from 110 individuals (43 healthy, 37 HCC, 30 cirrhosis) and identified four metabolites that displayed significantly different abundance between groups (FDR P < .2). We also developed four tree‐based, machine‐learning models, optimized to include different numbers of metabolites, that were trained using cross‐validation on 99 patients and validated on a withheld test set of 11 patients. A model using 12 metabolites –octadecanol, acetophenone, lauric acid, 1‐monopalmitin, dodecanol, salicylaldehyde, glycyl‐proline, 1‐monostearin, creatinine, glutamine, serine and 4‐hydroxybutyric acid – had a cross‐validated sensitivity of 84.8%, specificity of 92.4% and correctly classified 90% of the HCC patients in the test cohort. This model outperformed previously reported sensitivities and specificities for AFP (20‐100 ng/mL) (61%, 86%) and AFP plus ultrasound (62%, 88%).

Conclusions and Impact

Metabolites detectable in saliva may represent products of disease pathology or a breakdown in liver function. Notably, combinations of salivary metabolites derived from machine learning may serve as promising non‐invasive biomarkers for the detection of HCC.
Ultrapulsed CO2 Resurfacing of Photodamaged Facial Skin in Vegan and Omnivore Patients: A Multicentric Study
Authors: Fusano Marta , Bencini Pier Luca , Fusano Isabella , Bencini Matelda , Zane Cristina , Zerbinati Nicola , Galimberti Michela Gianna
Published: May 2021

Background and Objectives

Skin photoaging is related to extrinsic environmental exposures, mainly represented by ultraviolet radiation. One of the treatment options is laser resurfacing. As nutritional status is involved in cutaneous photodamage, we evaluated whether dietary patterns can also influence the response to facial resurfacing. Our prospective multicentric study involves three dermatologic centers specialized in laser therapy in northern Italy. The study aims to compare the outcome of a CO2 ablative laser therapy between omnivore and vegan patients.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Fifty‐three omnivore and fifty‐three vegan women undergoing ultrapulsed CO2 resurfacing for photodamaged facial skin were enrolled in this study. Clinical improvement was evaluated 3 and 6 months after the treatment using the modified Dover score.

Results

After laser treatment, vegans showed slower complete re‐epithelialization (P < 0.001*) and disappearance of the erythema (P < 0.001*). After 3 and 6 months, vegans showed worse outcomes in terms of fine lines (P < 0.001* and P < 0.001*, respectively) and tactile roughness (P = 0.003* and ​​​​P = 0.002*, respectively) compared with omnivores, while they did not differ in mottled pigmentation.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that diet influences the clinical outcome of fractioned CO2 laser treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Pregnancy Outcomes After Living Liver Donation: A Multi‐Institutional Study
Authors: Sonnenberg Elizabeth M. , Lee‐Riddle Grace S. , Walls David O. , Caicedo Juan C. , Jackson Whitney E. , Hughes Lisa , Ladner Daniela P. , Liapakis AnnMarie , Pomfret Elizabeth A. , Sarkar Monika , Selzner Nazia , Torres Ana Marie , Abt Peter L. , Olthoff Kim M.
Published: May 2021

Nearly half of living liver donors in North America are women of child‐bearing age. Fetal and maternal outcomes after donation are unknown. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of female living liver donors (aged 18‐50 years at donation) from 6 transplant centers. Participants were surveyed about their pregnancies and fertility. Outcomes were compared between predonation and postdonation pregnancies. Generalized estimating equations were clustered on donor and adjusted for age at pregnancy, parity, and pregnancy year. Among the 276 donors surveyed, 151 donors responded (54.7% response rate) and reported 313 pregnancies; 168/199 (68.8%) of the predonation pregnancies and 82/114 (71.9%) of the postdonation pregnancies resulted in live births, whereas 16.6% and 24.6% resulted in miscarriage, respectively. Women with postdonation pregnancies were older (32.0 versus 26.7 years; P < 0.001) and more frequently reported abnormal liver enzymes during pregnancy (3.5% versus 0.0%; P = 0.02) and delivery via cesarean delivery (35.4% versus 19.7%; P = 0.01). On adjusted analysis, there was no difference in cesarean delivery (odds ratio [OR], 2.44; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.98‐6.08), miscarriage (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 0.78‐3.24), combined endpoints of pregnancy‐induced hypertension and preeclampsia (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 0.36‐4.49), or intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.19‐4.3). Of the 49 women who attempted pregnancy after donation, 11 (22.5%) self‐reported infertility; however, 8/11 (72.7%) eventually had live births. Aside from increased reporting of abnormal liver enzymes and cesarean deliveries, there was no significant difference in pregnancy outcomes before and after living liver donation. One‐fifth of women who attempt pregnancy after liver donation reported infertility, and although the majority went on to successful live births, further exploration is needed to understand the contributing factors. Future research should continue to monitor this patient‐centered outcome across a large cohort of donors.
Chemistry and physics of dopants embedded in helium droplets
Authors: Albertini Simon , Gruber Elisabeth , Zappa Fabio , Krasnokutski Serge , Laimer Felix , Scheier Paul
Published: May 2021

Helium droplets represent a cold inert matrix, free of walls with outstanding properties to grow complexes and clusters at conditions that are perfect to simulate cold and dense regions of the interstellar medium. At sub‐Kelvin temperatures, barrierless reactions triggered by radicals or ions have been observed and studied by optical spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The present review summarizes developments of experimental techniques and methods and recent results they enabled.
Dynamics of a dengue fever model with vertical transmission and time periodic in spatially heterogeneous environments
Authors: Li Mingshan , Zhao Hongyong
Published: May 2021

To reflect the impacts of vertical transmission in human and mosquitoes on the transmission of dengue fever, we propose an SIS‐SI dengue fever model with time periodic in spatially heterogeneous environments. Firstly, we obtain the properties of the basic reproduction number R0 for the dengue model by the eigenvalue problem and the spectral radius of next infection operator. Secondly, we investigate the existence and attractivity of the positive ω‐periodic solution for the dengue fever model. We also investigate the stability of ω‐periodic solution. The theoretical results indicate that vertical transmission can enhance the persistence of dengue virus in spatially heterogeneous environments with time periodic when R0 > 1. We perform numerical simulations to illustrate theoretical results of dengue fever model and give some epidemiological explanations. Finally, we combine medical advice to seek some effective prevention and control measures for vertical transmission.
Stabilities and instabilities of an advanced quartic functional equation in various normed spaces
Authors: Senthil Kumar Beri V. , Dutta Hemen , Sabarinathan Sriramulu
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a new and advanced quartic functional equation is introduced, and its classical stability results in various normed spaces are discussed. An appropriate illustration is also presented to invalidate the stability result for a very critical instance. At the end of this paper, we have concluded that the stability results are valid in various normed spaces.
Technical Note: SpekPy v2.0—a software toolkit for modeling x‐ray tube spectra
Authors: Poludniowski Gavin , Omar Artur , Bujila Robert , Andreo Pedro
Published: May 2021

Purpose

SpekPy is a free toolkit for modeling x‐ray tube spectra with the Python programming language. In this article, the advances in version 2.0 (v2) of the software are described, including additional target materials and more accurate modeling of the heel effect. Use of the toolkit is also demonstrated.

Methods

The predictions of SpekPy are illustrated in comparison to experimentally determined spectra: three radiation quality reference (RQR) series tungsten spectra and one mammography spectrum with a molybdenum target. The capability of the software to correctly model changes in tube output with tube potential is also assessed, using the example of a GE RevolutionTM CT scanner (GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI, USA) and specifications in the system's Technical Reference Manual. Furthermore, we note that there are several physics models available in SpekPy. These are compared on and off the central axis, to illustrate the differences.

Results

SpekPy agrees closely with the experimental spectra over a wide range of tube potentials, both visually and in terms of first and second half‐value layers (HVLs) (within 2% here). The CT scanner spectrum output (normalized to 120 kV tube potential) agreed within 4% over the range of 70 to 140 kV. The default physics model (casim) is adequate in most situations. The advanced option (kqp) should be used if high accuracy is desired for modeling the anode heel effect, as it fully includes the effects of bremsstrahlung anisotropy.

Conclusions

SpekPy v2 can reliably predict on‐ and off‐axis spectra for tungsten and molybdenum targets. SpekPy's open‐source MIT license allows users the freedom to incorporate this powerful toolkit into their own projects.
Self‐supervised learning for accelerated 3D high‐resolution ultrasound imaging
Authors: Dai Xianjin , Lei Yang , Wang Tonghe , Axente Marian , Xu Dong , Patel Pretesh , Jani Ashesh B. , Curran Walter J. , Liu Tian , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Ultrasound (US) imaging has been widely used in diagnosis, image‐guided intervention, and therapy, where high‐quality three‐dimensional (3D) images are highly desired from sparsely acquired two‐dimensional (2D) images. This study aims to develop a deep learning‐based algorithm to reconstruct high‐resolution (HR) 3D US images only reliant on the acquired sparsely distributed 2D images.

Methods

We propose a self‐supervised learning framework using cycle‐consistent generative adversarial network (cycleGAN), where two independent cycleGAN models are trained with paired original US images and two sets of low‐resolution (LR) US images, respectively. The two sets of LR US images are obtained through down‐sampling the original US images along the two axes, respectively. In US imaging, in‐plane spatial resolution is generally much higher than through‐plane resolution. By learning the mapping from down‐sampled in‐plane LR images to original HR US images, cycleGAN can generate through‐plane HR images from original sparely distributed 2D images. Finally, HR 3D US images are reconstructed by combining the generated 2D images from the two cycleGAN models.

Results

The proposed method was assessed on two different datasets. One is automatic breast ultrasound (ABUS) images from 70 breast cancer patients, the other is collected from 45 prostate cancer patients. By applying a spatial resolution enhancement factor of 3 to the breast cases, our proposed method achieved the mean absolute error (MAE) value of 0.90 ± 0.15, the peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) value of 37.88 ± 0.88 dB, and the visual information fidelity (VIF) value of 0.69 ± 0.01, which significantly outperforms bicubic interpolation. Similar performances have been achieved using the enhancement factor of 5 in these breast cases and using the enhancement factors of 5 and 10 in the prostate cases.

Conclusions

We have proposed and investigated a new deep learning‐based algorithm for reconstructing HR 3D US images from sparely acquired 2D images. Significant improvement on through‐plane resolution has been achieved by only using the acquired 2D images without any external atlas images. Its self‐supervision capability could accelerate HR US imaging.
Asymmetric susceptibility tensor imaging
Authors: Cao Steven , Wei Hongjiang , Chen Jingjia , Liu Chunlei
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To investigate the symmetry constraint in susceptibility tensor imaging.

Theory

The linear relationship between the MRI frequency shift and the magnetic susceptibility tensor is derived without constraining the tensor to be symmetric. In the asymmetric case, the system matrix is shown to be maximally rank 6. Nonetheless, relaxing the symmetry constraint may still improve tensor estimation because noise and image artifacts do not necessarily follow the constraint.

Methods

Gradient echo phase data are obtained from postmortem mouse brain and kidney samples. Both symmetric and asymmetric tensor reconstructions are applied to the data. The reconstructions are then used for susceptibility tensor imaging fiber tracking. Simulations with ground truth and at various noise levels are also performed. The reconstruction methods are compared qualitatively and quantitatively.

Results

Compared to regularized and unregularized symmetric reconstructions, the asymmetric reconstruction shows reduced noise and streaking artifacts, better contrast, and more complete fiber tracking. In simulation, the asymmetric reconstruction achieves better mean squared error and better angular difference in the presence of noise. Decomposing the asymmetric tensor into its symmetric and antisymmetric components confirms that the underlying susceptibility tensor is symmetric and that the main sources of asymmetry are noise and streaking artifacts.

Conclusion

Whereas the susceptibility tensor is symmetric, asymmetric reconstruction is more effective in suppressing noise and artifacts, resulting in more accurate estimation of the susceptibility tensor.
Impact of prostatic radiation therapy on bladder contractility and innervation
Authors: Turner Alexander C. , Powers Shelby A. , Odom Michael R. , Pak Elena S. , Ashcraft Kathleen A. , Koontz Bridget F. , Hannan Johanna L.
Published: May 2021

Aims

To determine the effect of prostatic radiation therapy (RT) on bladder contractility and morphology, and axon, or neuron profiles within the detrusor and major pelvic ganglia (MPG) in male rats.

Methods

Male Sprague‐Dawley rats (8 weeks) received a single dose of prostatic RT (0 or 22 Gy). Bladders and MPG were collected 2‐ and 10‐weeks post‐RT. Detrusor contractile responses to carbachol and electrical field stimulation (EFS) were measured. Bladders were stained with Masson's trichrome, and antibodies for nonspecific neuronal marker, cholinergic nerve marker choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), and alpha‐smooth muscle actin. MPG gene expression was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction for ubiquitin carboxy‐terminal hydrolase L1 (Uchl1) and Chat.

Results

At 2 weeks post‐RT, bladder smooth muscle, detrusor cholinergic axon profiles, and MPG Chat gene expression were increased (p < .05), while carbachol and EFS‐mediated contractions were decreased (p < .05). In contrast, at 10 weeks post‐RT, nerve‐mediated contractions were increased compared with control (p < .05), while bladder smooth muscle, detrusor cholinergic axon profiles, MPG Chat expression, and carbachol contractions had normalized. At both 2‐ and 10‐weeks post‐RT, there was no change in detrusor nonspecific axon profiles and MPG Uchl1 expression.

Conclusion

In a rat model, RT of the prostate and MPG was associated with early changes in MPG Chat gene expression, and bladder cholinergic axon profiles and smooth muscle content which resolved over time. After RT recovery, bladder contractility decreased early and increased by 10 weeks. Long‐term changes to the MPG and increased bladder cholinergic axons may contribute to RT‐induced bladder dysfunction in prostate cancer survivors.
Comprehensive student support efforts result in high enrollment, retention despite pandemic, hurricanes
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2021

A global pandemic and two hurricanes in two weeks. That's enough disaster to daunt even the staunchest college officials. But the leadership team and staff   at SOWELA Technical Community College met the challenges, building on a retention rate of 75.06% from spring to fall 2020, to achieve an 83.71% retention rate from fall 2020 to spring 2021, the highest of any community college in Louisiana.
What you need to know about over‐the‐top advertising
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: May 2021

If you're like me, you might miss the days of rushing home to catch the latest episode of your favorite hilarious sitcom or nail‐biting crime drama. Maybe you even feel nostalgic for true cliff‐hangers, when you had to wait an entire week — or even a break between TV seasons — for an outcome, resolution, or solution.
Review these lessons learned for successful in‐person campus tours
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: May 2021

The number of guests who have participated in campus walking tours at Texas A&M University between July 1, 2020, and Jan. 31, 2021? 11,814. That's almost double the number of people who participated in virtual tours since April 2020.
Injectable opioid agonist treatment: An evolutionary concept analysis
Authors: Haines Marlene , O'Byrne Patrick
Published: May 2021

Canada is currently in the midst of an overdose crisis. With new and innovative approaches desperately needed, injectable opioid agonist treatment (iOAT) should be considered as an integral treatment option to prevent even more fatalities. These programs provide injectable diacetylmorphine or hydromorphone to clients with severe opioid use disorders. Currently, they remain an under‐executed and under‐studied treatment modality. To better understand why this may be, we performed an evolutionary concept analysis as described by Rodgers. The attributes, antecedents, consequences, and surrogate terms of iOAT were unpacked and explored. Further, four themes were identified within the literature: (1) physical and mental health, (2) illicit drug use, (3) criminal behavior, and (4) ethical considerations. Recommendations surrounding the need for additional studies that focus on the perspectives of people who use opioids (PWUO), the necessity of nursing advocacy in iOAT, and the consideration of a changing illicit drug supply were explored. Further, theoretical analysis coupled with direct input from PWUO was discussed as a necessity to move forward with iOAT.