bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric properties of the self‐efficacy for managing mild cognitive impairment scale
Authors: Kurasz Andrea M. , DeFeis Brittany , Locke Dona E. C. , De Wit Liselotte , Amofa Priscilla , Smith Glenn , Chandler Melanie
Published: August 2020

Objectives

We adapted a self‐efficacy measure for managing chronic illness to be specific to persons with mild cognitive impairment (pwMCI). The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the scale, the self‐efficacy for managing MCI scale, for use in research.

Methods

Analyses involved data from pwMCI enrolled in a behavioral intervention study that completed the measure five times from intervention enrollment to 18‐month post‐intervention. Factor structure, construct validity, internal consistency, and test‐retest reliability were analyzed.

Results

Factor analysis identified two factors, related to self‐efficacy for daily activities and managing MCI, which corresponded with domains from the original chronic illness self‐efficacy scale. Consistent with prior research, construct validity analysis suggested an association between memory‐loss self‐efficacy and psychosocial distress, but not cognitive or functional ability. Further analyses supported the scale's internal and test‐retest reliability.

Conclusions

Currently, no “gold standard” scale of memory‐loss self‐efficacy for pwMCI exists, despite the positive impact self‐efficacy may have on modifiable health behaviors. Overall, results supported the notion that the scale is a valid and reliable measure of memory‐loss self‐efficacy for pwMCI.
The therapeutic effects and safety of bright light therapy combined with escitalopram oxalate on insomnia in patients with poststroke depression
Authors: Xiao Meijuan , Feng Liang , Wang Qiongzhang , Luan Xiaoqian , Chen Siyan , He Jincai
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Bright light therapy (BLT) is known to treat depression and sleep disorders in clinical practice, but its efficacy on poststroke depression (PSD) has not been studied.

Objective

To investigate the therapeutic effects and safety of BLT combined with escitalopram oxalate (ESC) on insomnia in patients with PSD.

Methods

Ischemic stroke patients with depressive symptoms and a score of ≥8 on the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD‐17) while meeting DSM‐IV criteria were diagnosed as having PSD. A total of 112 PSD patients with symptoms of insomnia were randomly assigned to polytherapy (BLT plus ESC) and monotherapy (ESC only) groups. Each regimen continued for 6 weeks. The primary outcomes were a change in scores on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and a remission rate (PSQI ≤7 at the endpoint). The secondary outcomes included changes in the HAMD‐17 and Barthel Index (BI) scores. Adverse effects were assessed by the Adverse Events Scale.

Results

The endpoint assessment included 106 patients (monotherapy, 54; polytherapy, 52). The mean changes in the PSQI scores for the monotherapy and polytherapy groups were 4.85 (1.47) and 5.87 (1.72) (P = 0.001), respectively. Compared to monotherapy, polytherapy improved PSQI remission rate (71.4% vs 50.0%; χ2 = 5.390; P = 0.020), and HAMD‐17 score (6.70 [2.12] vs 4.75 [1.98]; P < 0.001). Both treatments improved BI score, with no statistical difference, and were well tolerated, with few significant differences in treatment‐associated adverse events.

Conclusion

BLT combined with ESC is effective and well tolerated for the treatment of PSD‐associated insomnia.
Elective neck dissection for T3/T4 cN0 sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Crawford Kayva L. , Jafari Aria , Qualliotine Jesse R. , Stuart Emelia , DeConde Adam S. , Califano Joseph A. , Orosco Ryan K.
Published: August 2020

Background

In locally advanced sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC), management of the clinically node‐negative (cN0) neck is variable and elective neck dissection (END) remains controversial.

Methods

Patients with surgically treated T3/T4 cN0 M0 SNSCC were identified using the NCDB. Overall survival (OS) was assessed by Cox proportional hazard analysis in propensity score‐matched cohorts. Factors associated with END were evaluated with logistic regression.

Results

Two hundred twenty patients underwent END (19.6%). END did not correlated with OS in propensity score‐matched cohorts (HR 0.971, 95% CI 0.677‐1.392), a maxillary sinus tumor subgroup (HR 1.089, 95% CI 0.742‐1.599), or by radiation status [radiation: (HR 0.802, 95% CI 0.584‐1.102); no radiation: (HR 0.852, 95% CI 0.502‐1.445)]. The occult metastasis rate in the END cohort was 12.7%.

Conclusion

END did not significantly improve OS in this study. Further information on disease‐free survival is necessary to determine its role in advanced‐stage SNSCC.
The ratio of posterior–anterior medial temporal lobe volumes predicts source memory performance in healthy young adults
Authors: Snytte Jamie , Elshiekh Abdelhalim , Subramaniapillai Sivaniya , Manning Lyssa , Pasvanis Stamatoula , Devenyi Gabriel A. , Olsen Rosanna K. , Rajah Maria Natasha
Published: August 2020

A functional gradient has been proposed across the medial temporal lobes (MTL) such that the anterior MTL is thought to support processing of individual items (e.g., item memory and complex object perception), whereas the posterior MTL is thought to support item‐context retrieval (e.g., source memory). Whereas functional imaging studies have provided evidence supporting this anatomical organization, results from structural analyses remain inconclusive. The current study examined the relationship between volume of MTL regions of interest (ROIs), and performance on a source memory task and a fine‐grain complex object perception task, in healthy young adults (mean age = 21.5, range = 18–29). Using a semiautomated procedure, we segmented the parahippocampal and perirhinal cortices (PHC, PRC), posteromedial and anterolateral entorhinal cortices (pmERC, alERC), and posterior and anterior hippocampus (postHC, antHC) on high‐resolution T2‐weighted MRIs. Regional volumes were computed as proportions of intracranial volume, and as posterior–anterior volumetric ratios (PHC:PRC, pmERC:alERC, postHC:antHC). Partial‐least squares regressions were applied to predict source and item memory, and perceptual discrimination accuracy, based on ROI and ratio volumes. In our ROI regressions, we found that postHC volume was positively correlated with a latent factor predicting source memory, and PRC and antHC volumes were negatively correlated to this latent factor. In our ratio regressions, we observed an effect relating the posterior–anterior distribution of gray matter across the MTL with source memory. Our results demonstrate differential associations between anterior and posterior MTL and source memory performance. Findings from this study highlight the importance of considering patterns of structure–behavior associations in the neurobiology of episodic memory.
The function of medial temporal lobe and posterior middle temporal gyrus in forming creative associations
Authors: Zhang Ze , Liu Lulu , Li Yue , Tan Tengteng , Niki Kazuhisa , Luo Jing
Published: August 2020

Although the function of the hippocampus and adjacent medial temporal lobe (MTL) areas in forming associations is generally recognized, how MTL contributes to form creative associations that could result in novel and appropriate functions or meanings remains unclear. In this study, we compared highly creative combinations (HCCs) of two objects (e.g., that of “lifejacket” and “distress signal device”) that resulted in genuine innovative designs comprising additionally unprecedented functions (the “1 + 1 > 2” effects) with the lowly creative combinations (LCCs, e.g., the combination of “set‐top box” and “jewelry box”) that resulted in nothing more than simple “1 + 1 = 2” effects. The event‐related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study found that during the “early binding phase,” when the combinations of the two objects were initially encoded, the right parahippocampus was more intensively activated during the encoding of HCC relative to LCC trials. However, during the “late integration phase,” when participants finally formed a holistic mental representation of new products based on the two‐object combinations, both HCCs and LCCs were found to be associated with significantly increased hippocampal and parahippocampal activation relative to the baseline condition, but at a similar level. In this “late integration phase,” the functional areas appeared to be more intensively activated in HCCs relative to LCCs located in the posterior middle temporal gyrus (pMTG), the area known to mediate category‐related processing. Consistently, our supplementary behavioral study found that, relative to LCCs, HCCs had a higher possibility of resulting in some new conceptual expansions that differed from each of the original two objects that constituted the combinations. These findings indicate that the formation of creative combinations not only require MTL‐based novel association‐formation, but also pMTG‐based novel concept‐expansion.
Dynamic operating efficiency and its determining factors of listed real‐estate companies in China: A hierarchical slack‐based DEA‐OLS approach
Authors: Atta Mills Ebenezer Fiifi Emire , Baafi Mavis Agyapomah , Liu Fangbiao , Zeng Kailin
Published: August 2020

This study uses a dynamic slacks‐based measure (SBM) model in a data envelopment analysis (DEA) framework with surplus reserve and accounts receivable as desirable and undesirable indicators respectively, based on inter‐connectivity between consecutive periods to estimate the operating efficiency of 110 listed Chinese real‐estate companies in the first step analysis. The results show that 35 listed real‐estate companies in China operated on the efficient frontier by maintaining sustainable growth throughout the entire period. The analysis presents the projection of indicators to suggest a feasible solution to improve the inefficient terms. At the second step analysis, using ordinary least square (OLS) estimation, authors find a curve‐linear relationship between real‐estate company size and efficiency to suggest that operating efficiency increases as size also increases due to economies of scale but only up to an optimum point. Profitability and higher education are also identified as the other significant determinants of operating efficiency. The findings of this research present evidence that average efficiency scores vary over time and generally comove with China's economic growth rate and the average stock returns in the real‐estate sector. By providing a new framework for evaluating input, output and carry‐over indicators of real‐estate companies, the results of this study equip real‐estate companies to have an accurate perspective of their operating position and simultaneously provide investors with an avenue to evaluate real‐estate companies' development before any form of investment.
Do determinants of fees differ between Islamic and conventional funds?
Authors: Mehri Meryem , Hassan M. Kabir , Safa M. Fasial , Siraj Ibrahim
Published: August 2020

This paper examines the effects of country conditions on fund manager fees. By using an international sample of 607 funds from 23 countries, the authors show that legal, culture, and political risk have robust effects on fund manager fees. The findings indicate that Islamic and conventional funds in developing countries with weaker legal settings and higher corruption have higher fixed and performance fees. However, performance fees are lower and fixed fees are higher in countries with higher political risk. Overall, Hofstede's cultural values significantly affect the fund fees with robust differential effects between Islamic and conventional funds.
Fiscal sustainability in theEUafter the global crisis: Is there any progress? Evidence from Poland
Authors: Wysocki Maciej , Wójcik Cezary
Published: August 2020

In response to the global crisis, a number of new institutional measures have been introduced in the fiscal framework, both on the EU and on the member states' level, and the question is: Have these measures provided better fiscal sustainability outcomes? We approach this question by looking at the evolution of fiscal sustainability in Poland, which is an interesting case of a member state that without significant market pressure (the only EU country without recession during the crisis) actively promoted several changes in the EU fiscal framework (e.g., six‐pack) and effectively internalized some of these key changes in its domestic fiscal policy, including a domestic expenditure fiscal rule. Our analysis reveals that the fiscal sustainability in Poland has significantly improved in the post‐crisis period of 2009–2017: We detect both improvement of the fiscal sustainability parameters and structural breaks in the fiscal outcomes after the crisis. Namely, in comparison to the whole sample of 2004–2017 the strength of reaction of the primary deficit to a change of the public debt increased in the post‐crisis time by nearly 50%. Importantly, these results are robust with respect to the pension fund reform which led to a one‐off redemption of T‐bonds in amount of 8.5% of GDP. The analysis also reveals a cycle of structural breaks of 2‐and 4 years lags: For the output gap in 2008 Q4, for the primary deficit in 2010 Q4 and for the public debt in 2014 Q1. The case of Poland seems to suggest that the post‐crisis EU fiscal measures can be effectively used to increase fiscal sustainability, if properly approached and internalized into the domestic fiscal framework. More research should be devoted to understanding the political and economic conditions under which such positive outcomes were possible.
Modern money and Islamic banking in the light of Islamic law of riba
Authors: Siddique Muhammad Zahid
Published: August 2020

Theory of Islamic banking is based on neoclassical theory of money and banking which assumes that money is a neutral lubricant that facilitates exchange while bank is an intermediary institution that equates savings and investments in the economy. Endogenous money supply has demonstrated the fallacy of these assumptions by showing that it is not the deposits that create loans, rather the other way round. Unlike commodity money, modern money is credit, generated by the central and commercial banks in the process of advancing reserves and loans. When this correct version of money and banking is evaluated in the light of the correct understanding of riba, it becomes evident that modern money involves riba and this result is equally valid for Islamic banking. Genuine Islamic monetary and banking systems require commodity money, which may include gold and silver, such that its face value is equal to its intrinsic value and it does not represent credit. Riba is not merely a matter of eliminating the institution of interest from economic system, it is about eliminating credit‐based monetary or financial system because credit creation is as much riba as is charging interest.
Evaluating skills correlated with discriminated responding in multiple schedule arrangements
Authors: Pizarro Eliana M. , Vollmer Timothy R. , Morris Samuel L.
Published: August 2020

One potential solution for excessively high‐rate functional communication responses (FCR) is to establish stimulus control of the FCR through a multiple schedule. However, several studies have demonstrated difficulty with establishing discriminated responding across multiple schedule components. The primary aim of the current study was to evaluate how participants’ skills related to color discrimination may be related to the emergence of discriminated responding in a multiple schedule with colors as the schedule‐correlated stimuli. Three secondary aims of the current study were to evaluate: a) varied multiple schedule arrangements, b) if topographically dissimilar stimuli facilitated the emergence of discriminated responding, and c) if employing different colored stimuli across multiple schedule arrangements reduced the likelihood that discriminated responding emerged simultaneously across varied arrangements. Nine participants’ ability to match, select, tact, and respond intraverbally to colors was assessed, and 1 of 2 evaluations of multiple schedule arrangements were conducted. Results indicated that participants’ ability to select and tact colors was strongly correlated with the efficacy of standard multiple schedule arrangements. Additionally, multiple schedule arrangements employing topographically dissimilar stimuli were observed to be equally as effective as standard arrangements and the inclusion of different colored stimuli across arrangements did not reduce the likelihood that discriminated responding emerged simultaneously across all conditions, when it was observed to emerge at all.
LncRNA PVT1 exacerbates the inflammation and cell‐barrier injury during asthma by regulating miR‐149
Authors: Ma Lianmei , Zhang Qian , Hao Jinping , Wang Jianqiang , Wang Chunjian
Published: August 2020

Background

Asthma is a prevailing respiratory disease among children, characterized by allergic airway inflammation, airway remodeling, and airway hyperresponsiveness. Although it is well‐known that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are linked to a variety of human diseases and well‐documented, very few studies explore its role in asthma. In this study, we investigate the effects of lncRNA PVT1 on the promotion of airway inflammation and its associated mechanisms.

Methods and Materials

Human small airway epithelial cells (HSAECs) with PVT1 overexpressed or knocked down were constructed, and platelet activating factor (PAF) was used to treat HSAECs to mimic the pathological process of asthma in vitro. The expressions of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expressions of PKC, MyD88, and NF‐ĸB were measured by Western blot. Monolayer permeability of HSAECs was also compared within different groups. Luciferase reporter gene assay was employed to detect the targeting relationship between PVT1 and miR‐149.

Results

The knockdown of PVT1 attenuated the levels of inflammatory factors induced by PAF and destruction of cell‐barrier function. The overexpression of PVT1 facilitated the pathological development. Additionally, miR‐149 was identified as a target microRNA of PVT1, and the overexpression of miR‐149 could reverse the effects of PVT1 on PAF‐induced HSAECs.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that PVT1 may represent a novel potential target for treatment of asthma.
Catechin and epicatechin as an adjuvant in the therapy of hemostasis disorders induced by snake venoms
Authors: Cesar Pedro H. S. , Trento Marcus V. C. , Konig Isaac F. M. , Marcussi Silvana
Published: August 2020

Snake toxins, such as phospholipases A2 and proteases, are used as research tools to evaluate biological activities and to understand physiopathological processes of natural compounds better. In the present study, the phenolic compounds catechin and epicatechin were incubated with snake venoms to evaluate their inhibition against different substrates. Catechin and epicatechin exerted inhibitions between 20% and 95% on the activity of phospholipases A2 present in the venom of Bothrops alternatus. In the hemolytic activity, catechin exerted inhibitions between 20% and 25% in all proportions evaluated on the B. jararacussu venom, whereas epicatechin inhibited 20% of the venom activity. Coagulation induced by B. atrox and B. jararacussu venoms was significantly inhibited by catechin and epicatechin, where the time for coagulation was two to three times higher after previous incubation of the venoms with the compounds. The most significant inhibitions for the proteolytic activity on casein were 17% and 27%, respectively, by both compounds. Catechin inhibited serine protease activity induced by B. atrox venom by 64% and epicatechin by 65%. Regarding B. atrox‐induced thrombolysis, catechin exerted 40% inhibition and epicatechin around 30%. The fibrinogen proteolysis was completely inhibited by catechin acting on the B. atrox venom in the proportion of 1:1 and by epicatechin on B. jararacussu venom. Catechin and epicatechin showed promising inhibitory action on proteases and phospholipases A2. Therefore, these compounds can be explored as an adjuvant for serum therapy or pharmaceutical purposes, once they act on homologous enzymes that are present in humans.
The protective effect of natural compounds against rotenone‐induced neurotoxicity
Authors: Yarmohammadi Fatemeh , Wallace Hayes A. , Najafi Nahid , Karimi Gholamreza
Published: August 2020

Rotenone is a widely used organic pesticide; its serious side effect for off‐target species is neurotoxicity. The primary mechanism of rotenone toxicity is inhibition of the mitochondrial complex I. Oxidative stress, apoptosis, and reduction of autophagy are key outcomes of the inhibition of complex I. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown antioxidant, anti‐apoptotic, and autophagy enhancement of a variety of natural compounds (NCs). In this manuscript, we reviewed several NCs, which have protective effects against rotenone‐induced neurotoxicity.
microRNA‐320a prevent Müller cells from hypoxia injury by targeting aquaporin‐4
Authors: Chen Zhen , Yang Zhengrong , Li Xiaoliang , Wang He , Wang Yonggang , Ding Chao , Yang JingYing , Ni Ninghua , Mei Yan , Zhang Shiwen
Published: August 2020

Müller cells are closely related to diabetic retinopathy (DR). Aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) can effectively promote the diffusion of water across cellular membranes. However, the dynamic balance of water plays key role in many diseases, such as cerebral edema. Meanwhile, the unusual expression and distribution of AQP4 in the retina are the significant causes of ocular hypertension and reperfusion injury. To explore the functional significance between microRNA‐320a (miR‐320a) and AQP4 in pathological hypoxia‐induced DR related retinal edema, we hypothesized that miR‐320a regulates AQP4 expression and internalization to relieve the edema of Müller cells under the pathological retinal hypoxia stress by targeting AQP4, thereby attenuate the damage of Müller cells. Results demonstrated that miR‐320a mimics inhibited the expressions of AQP4 in Müller cells. Furthermore, overexpression miR‐320a protected Müller cells by suppressing superoxide anion. In addition, overexpression miR‐320a markedly attenuated hypoxia‐induced injury, significantly increased the cell viability, and promoted the internalization of AQP4. Furthermore, miR‐320a can also regulate the stable anchoring of AQP4 on the cell membrane. Our study indicated that miR‐320a may be a potential modulator which can mediate AQP4 expression and attenuate the hypoxia damage of Müller cells. In conclusion, miR‐320a may be a potential target for DR therapy by targeting AQP4.
Circadian transcription factor Dbp promotes rat calvarial osteoprogenitors osteogenic differentiation through Kiss1/GnRH/E2 signaling pathway loop
Authors: Zhao Yanhui , Wu Yanan , Wang Jie , Liao Chongshan , Mi Xiaohui , Chen Fengshan
Published: August 2020

To determine the mechanism by which D‐site‐binding protein (Dbp) regulates rat calvarial osteoprogenitors (OPCs) osteogenic differentiation. α‐Smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) + rat calvarial OPCs were extracted and purified using immunomagnetic beads. Cells were transduced with Dbp‐lentivirus and divided into Dbp knockdown, Dbp overexpression and vehicle groups. After osteogenic induction for 21 days, Alizarin red staining and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were examined. Expression levels of Runx2, Ocn, Osterix, Bmp4, Kiss1, and GnRH were determined using a quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The observed changes in Kisspeptin, GnRH, ERα, and Runx2 were further validated via Western blot analysis. Furthermore, E2 and GnRH secretion levels were detected via an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase assay were used to assess the effects of Dbp on the Kiss1 gene promoter. The coexpression of Dbp and Kisspeptin or GnRH was also evaluated via immunofluorescence. Following osteogenic induction, Dbp overexpression significantly increased calcium nodule formation and ALP activity, as well as Runx2, Ocn, Osterix, Bmp4, Kiss1, and GnRH messenger RNA expression, while Dbp knockdown presented the opposite results. Western blot analysis and ELISA results showed that Dbp significantly promotes Runx2, E2/ERα, Kisspeptin, and GnRH expression. These findings were confirmed by the ChIP assay, which indicated that the estrogen receptor promotes Kisspeptin expression after binding to the Kiss1 gene promoter, which is regulated by Dbp. Immunofluorescence assay showed that Dbp coexpression with Kisspeptin or GnRH varied depending on Dbp expression levels. Collectively, the circadian transcription factor Dbp promotes α‐SMA + rat calvarial OPCs osteoblastic differentiation through Kiss1/GnRH/E2 signaling pathway loop.
Soybean peroxidase‐catalyzed degradation of a sulfonated dye and its azo‐cleavage product
Authors: Kaur Amanpreet , Taylor Keith E , Biswas Nihar
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The presence of azo dyes in wastewater from the textile industry is a major environmental concern. The dyes not only make water aesthetically unacceptable, but also have severe toxicological concerns. Research into treatment processes for removal of dyes has focused primarily on decolourization and little attention has been focused on analysis of the degradation products, that could plausibly be more toxic than the parent compound. This study focusses on soybean peroxidase (SBP)‐catalyzed treatment of two azo dyes, Methyl Orange (MO) and CI Direct Yellow 12 (DY12) in water, chosen because they lack phenolic and primary anilino functional groups, which are usually expected to form free radicals under peroxidase catalysis.

RESULTS

DY12 was found not to be a substrate of SBP, but optimized reaction conditions for 0.50 mmol L–1 MO and 1.0 mmol L–1 p‐anisidine (structurally analogous to 4‐ethoxyaniline, a possible azo‐cleavage product of DY12) achieved ≥95% conversion at exceptionally low minimum effective SBP activities (0.0070 and 0.0018 U mL–1) at pH optima of 4.0 and 5.5 and [hydrogen peroxide]/[substrate] of 2 and 1, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Mass spectrometric (MS) analysis for the substrates revealed formation of dimers and trimers for p‐anisidine. For MO, high‐performance liquid chromatography, UV‐visible spectrophotometry and MS provided evidence of azo‐bond cleavage, hetero‐coupling of the dye with the cleavage product and also self‐coupling of the dye through tertiary amine activation. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Mechanical, biochemical, and morphological topography of ovine knee cartilage
Authors: Risch Makayla , Easley Jeremiah T. , McCready Erin G. , Troyer Kevin L. , Johnson James W. , Gadomski Benjamin C. , McGilvray Kirk C. , Kisiday John D. , Nelson Brad B.
Published: August 2020

The knee is the most common site for translational cartilage research in sheep, though topographic features of articular cartilage across surfaces are unspecified. We aimed to characterize the mechanical, morphological, and biochemical properties of articular cartilage across ovine knee surfaces and document variations between and within surface locations. Regions of interest (ROIs) were delineated across surfaces of 10 healthy ovine knees. Articular cartilage at each ROI was measured for creep indentation, thickness, and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and collagen content. Variables were compared between surface locations (trochlea, and lateral [LFC] and medial [MFC] femoral condyles) and between ROIs within each surface location. Correlations between variables were also assessed. Articular surface location had a significant effect on creep (P < .0001), thickness (P < .0001), and collagen (P = .0007), but not GAG (P = .28). Significant differences in percent creep between ROIs were found within the LFC (P < .0001), MFC (P < .0001), and trochlea (P = .0002). Cartilage thickness was different between ROIs within the LFC, MFC, and trochlea (all P < .0001). The LFC (P = .002) and trochlea (P = .01) each had significant differences in GAG between ROIs. Collagen content between ROIs was different within the LFC (P = .0003), MFC (P = .0005), and trochlea (P < .0001). Collagen content was correlated with thickness (r = −.55), percent creep (r = .47), and GAG (r = −.21). Percent creep was correlated with thickness (r = −.64) and GAG (r = −.19). Topographic variations in mechanical, morphological, and biochemical properties exist across knee cartilage surfaces in sheep. Recognition of this variability is important to optimize study protocols and improve accuracy of results.
Detection and Differentiation of Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas in the Transverse Sinus/Sigmoid Sinus and Cavernous Sinus Using Carotid Ultrasound
Authors: Hisaeda Emiko , Shimada Hirofumi , Ogata Toshiyasu , Fukuda Kenji , Higashi Toshio , Inoue Tooru
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVFs) in the transverse sinus (TS)/sigmoid sinus (SS) and cavernous sinus (CS) are observed frequently in the clinic. This study aimed to detect DAVFs with ultrasound and compare carotid ultrasound findings between these conditions.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 26 patients with either a TS/SS DAVF or a CS DAVF who were admitted to our hospital for evaluation of DAVFs from 2014 to 2018. The shunt site decision was made by neuroendovascular experts, whereas carotid ultrasound examinations were performed by ultrasound specialists. The flow velocity of the ipsilateral external carotid artery was reviewed in all 26 patients, whereas that of the occipital artery (OA) was examined in 20 patients. Blood flow velocities were compared between the TS/SS DAVF and CS DAVF groups.

Results

The study included 18 patients with a TS/SS DAVF (11 women and 7 men; mean age ± SD, 65.3 ± 18.6 years) and 8 patients with a CS DAVF (7 women and 1 man; mean age, 70.4 ± 9.3 years). Evaluations of feeder arteries on cerebral angiography showed that all patients had dural branches from the internal carotid and middle meningeal arteries as feeders of CS DAVFs, whereas the OA was the major feeder source of all TS/SS DAVF cases. The end‐diastolic velocity (EDV) of the external carotid artery was significantly higher in patients with a TS/SS DAVF compared with those with a CS DAVF (P = .004). The EDV of the OA was significantly elevated in TS/SS DAVF cases compared with CS DAVF cases (P < .001).

Conclusions

Duplex ultrasound parameters are significantly different between patients with TS/SS and CS DAVFs. An increased EDV of the OA can predict the presence of a TS/SS DAVF.
Silencing of microRNA‐3175 represses cell proliferation and invasion in prostate cancer by targeting the potential tumor‐suppressor SCN4B
Authors: Huang He , Qing Xiao‐Yan , Zhou Qiong , Li Han‐Dan , Hu Zhu‐Yun
Published: August 2020

MicroRNA‐3175 (miR‐3175) expression is upregulated in prostate cancer, but its roles and the underlying mechanisms in prostate cancer cell growth and invasion need to be elucidated. This study aimed to uncover the roles of miR‐3175 in regulating cell growth and migration, as well as the expression of its predicted target gene cardiac sodium channel β4‐subunit gene (SCN4B). Real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) and/or western blotting techniques were used to measure miR‐3175 and SCN4B expression levels in prostate cancer cells. Inhibitor or mimics transfections were used to overexpress or silence miR‐3175 in prostate cancer cells. MTT and Edu assays were applied to assess cell viability. Scratch assay and transwell chambers were used to examine cell migration and invasion abilities. The interaction between miR‐3175 and SCN4B was determined by means of luciferase gene reporter, RT‐qPCR, and western blotting assays. The results showed that miR‐3175 expression was increased and SCN4B expression was decreased in prostate cancer cell lines as compared with normal human prostatic epithelial cells. Compared with the control group, knockdown of miR‐3175 resulted in strong inhibitions of cell growth, migration, invasion, and N‐cadherin expression, together with an increase in E‐cadherin expression. In addition, knockdown of miR‐3175 dramatically increased the luciferase activity of the luciferase vector of SCN4B, and increased SCN4B expression. Together, this study illustrated that downregulation of miR‐3175 repressed the proliferation and invasion of prostate cancer cells, which might be induced by SCN4B downregulation.
2D Chiral Stripe Nanopatterns Self‐Assembled from Rod‐Coil Block Copolymers on Microstripes
Authors: Tang Zhengmin , Xu Zhanwen , Cai Chunhua , Lin Jiaping , Yao Yuan , Yang Chunming , Tian Xiaohui
Published: August 2020

Chiral nanoarchitectures usually possess unique and intriguing properties. However, the construction of 2D chiral nanopatterns through polymer self‐assembly is a challenge. Reported herein is the formation of chiral stripe nanopatterns through surface self‐assembly of polypeptide‐based rod‐coil block copolymers on microstripes. The nanostripes align oblique to the boundary of the microstripes, resulting in the chirality of the nanopatterns. The chirality of the nanopatterns is closely related to the width of the microstripes, i.e., a narrower width results in higher chirality. Besides, the chiral sense of the nanopatterns can be regulated by the chirality of the polypeptide blocks. This work demonstrates the transmission of chirality from polymer to nanoarchitecture on a confined surface, which can guide the preparation of nanopatterns with tuned chiral features.
Templated Polymerization of Nucleobase Complexes via Molecular Recognition
Authors: Wang Mu , Chu Fuke , Xiao Jingjing , Choi Bonnie , Wei Xiaohu , Feng Anchao
Published: August 2020

Macromolecules have a strong tendency to interact with each other in solution to form a supramolecular structure through various secondary binding forces. In this study, nucleobase‐containing templates poly(9‐(4‐vinylbenzyl)adenine) (PSAH) and poly(1‐(4‐vinylbenzyl)cytosine) (PSCH) are prepared by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Vinylbenzyl thymine (MST) is polymerized in the presence of these two nucleobase‐containing templates. MST shows higher affinities toward the template PSAH compared with the template PSCH. In accordance with the Watson–Crick pairing principle, thymine forms hydrogen bonding (H‐bonding) with adenine, but not between thymine and cytosine. A complex is formed when PSAH is used as template which indicates that there is a template polymerization of nucleobase complexes via molecular recognition.
Detection of Arcobacter species in different intestinal compartments of broiler chicken during slaughter and processing
Authors: Schönknecht Antje , Alter Thomas , Gölz Greta
Published: August 2020

Arcobacter spp. are commonly present on meat products. However, the source of contamination on chicken meat is under dispute. Since different studies reported contradictory results on the occurrence of Arcobacter spp. inside the intestinal tract of chicken, our study examined four intestinal compartments at four significant production steps during broiler slaughter and processing in the slaughterhouse. Altogether, 157 intestinal tracts from 19 flocks were examined qualitatively and semiquantitatively applying a selective enrichment. Further verification was performed by mPCR and rpoB sequencing. Arcobacter spp. were only detected sporadically in intestinal contents after bleeding (2/32) and in none after scalding (0/32). After defeathering, Arcobacter spp. were detected in 62% (18/29) of the intestinal contents with 28% (8/29) of the duodenal, 21% (6/29) of the jejunal, 3% (1/29) of the cecal, and 55% (16/29) of the colonic samples tested positive with loads up to 24,000 MPN/g in the colonic content. Further 88% (7/8) of colonic tissue samples were tested positive. After evisceration, the prevalences (58/64) and loads of Arcobacter spp. display comparable levels in the intestinal contents like after defeathering. In conclusion, our data point out that Arcobacter spp. are most likely detected in the colonic intestinal compartment of the chicken after defeathering and evisceration. Therefore, not only cross‐contamination originating from the environment inside the slaughterhouse may cause carcass contamination with Arcobacter spp. on broiler chicken carcasses. The detection of Arcobacter spp. in duodenal and jejunal contents as well as in the colonic tissue indicates that there possibly exists an Arcobacter reservoir inside the chicken.
“I will survive”: Online streaming and the chart survival of music tracks
Authors: Kaimann Daniel , Tanneberg Ilka , Cox Joe
Published: August 2020

Digital streaming has had a profound effect on the commercial music sector and now accounts for 80% of industry revenues in the United States. This study investigates the consumption of music on digital streaming platforms by analyzing the factors affecting the chart survival of individual music tracks. Our data are taken from the Spotify Global Top 200 between January 2017 and January 2020, containing observations on 3,007 unique tracks by 642 artists over 1,087 days. We identify a number of unique consumption traits applicable to online streaming services, which we use to explain variations in chart longevity. We find a positive association between the amount of time a track spends in the chart and the involvement of a major label. We also find that the level of competition from other chart entries, as well as some elements related to the pattern of diffusion, associates significantly with the likelihood of chart survival. The study highlights several important managerial implications for key industry stakeholders.
Thermal and entropy analysis in L‐shaped non‐Darcian porous cavity saturated with nanofluids using Buongiorno model: Comparative study
Authors: Chamkha Ali J. , Jomardiani Ghasem , Ismael Muneer A. , Ghasemiasl Ramin , Armaghani Taher
Published: August 2020

The current paper deals with the natural convection and entropy generation in L‐shaped porous cavity filled with nanofluids obeying Buongiorno's two‐phase model. Forchheimer–Brinkman‐extended Darcy model is used to represent the macroscopic motion within the porous medium. The governing equations are solved using the finite volume method using OpenFoam software. We have added a house code in C++ to OpenFoam solver for reaching to the Buongiorno's two‐phase model and entropy generation. By alternative considering and ignoring, the roles of Brownian motion and the thermophoresis mechanisms are examined. A comparative study is carried out on these aspects based on the thermal performance criterion. The results show that the thermophoresis diffusion effect is predominant over the Brownian diffusion effect. The Nusselt number and the total entropy generation are higher for svelte cavity. A cavity of aspect ratio of 0.5 and Al2O3 and CuO nanoparticles are proposed for best thermal performance.
Development and validation of Temperance Scale in Pakistan
Authors: Shahab Syeda Omama , Adil Adnan
Published: August 2020

The purpose of the present research was to construct and validate a measure of temperance—one's capability ofmoderationor voluntary self‐restraint. This research comprised two studies. In Study I, an item pool of 83 items was generated, 75 items were finalized by a committee of experts, and then these items were administered on a purposive sample of university students (n= 250). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed a four‐factor solution with 24 items and the factors were named as Self‐regulation (α = .72), Prudence (α = .71), Humility (α = .79), and Forgiveness (α = .73). Study II of the present research confirmed the factorial structure of the Temperance Scale in an independent sample of university students (n= 268). The Temperance Scale, Academic Procrastination Scale, and Empathy Quotient Short Form were administered to the participants. Confirmatory factor analysis of the Temperance Scale demonstrated a good model fit to the data with the same four factors as established during the EFA. The Temperance Scale was positively correlated with empathy and it had a nonsignificant relationship with academic procrastination. The results support that the newly developed scale has promising validity.
The Dynamics of Personality Approach (DPA): 20 Tenets for Uncovering the Causal Mechanisms of Personality
Authors: Quirin Markus , Robinson Michael D. , Rauthmann John F. , Kuhl Julius , Read Stephen J. , Tops Mattie , DeYoung Colin G.
Published: August 2020

Over the last few decades, most personality psychology research has been focused on assessing personality via scores on a few broad traits and investigating how these scores predict various behaviours and outcomes. This approach does not seek to explain the causal mechanisms underlying human personality and thus falls short of explaining the proximal sources of traits as well as the variation of individuals’ behaviour over time and across situations. On the basis of the commonalities shared by influential process–oriented personality theories and models, we describe a general dynamics of personality approach (DPA). The DPA relies heavily on theoretical principles applicable to complex adaptive systems that self–regulate via feedback mechanisms, and it parses the sources of personality in terms of various psychological functions relevant in different phases of self–regulation. Thus, we consider personality to be rooted in individual differences in various cognitive, emotional–motivational, and volitional functions, as well as their causal interactions. In this article, we lay out 20 tenets for the DPA that may serve as a guideline for integrative research in personality science. © 2020 The Authors. European Journal of Personality published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Association of Personality Psychology
Gold at crossroads of radical generation and scavenging at density functional theory level: Nitrogen and oxygen free radicals versus their precursors in the face of nanogold
Authors: Ahmadi Aliakbar , Kassaee Mohamad Z. , Ayoubi‐Chianeh Mojgan , Fattahi Alireza
Published: August 2020

In our previous report (J. Phys. Org. Chem., 2017), we discussed the dual behavior of gold nanocluster (Au3 NC), where it scavenged reactive oxygen species (ROS) while promoted their generation to a lesser extent. Continuing this quest, we investigate the effects of Au3 NC on common reactive nitrogen species (RNS: ON˙ and ON˙O) and their precursors (ONH and ONOH, respectively), at B3LYP/LACVP+* level of theory. We compare the results with those of prevalent ROS (HO˙ and HOO˙) and their precursors (HOH and HOOH, respectively). To this end, various parameters are probed such as binding energy (Eb), bond dissociation energy (BDE), bond lengths, Mullikan spin density (MSD), critical point (CP) eigenvalues (atoms in molecules [AIM] analysis), and natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis including natural population analysis (NPA) and change of charge transfer energy (ΔECT). Our results show that in the presence of Au3 NC, BDEs of the NH and OH bonds increase in both ONHAu3 (1) and ONOHAu3 (2) compared with their free forms (ONH and ONOH, respectively). In other words, the tendency to dissociate these bonds and form their corresponding RNS (1′ and 2′) decreases in the presence of gold. This is exactly the opposite of what is observed for the OH bonds in HOHAu3 (3), HOOHAu3 (4), and their corresponding ROS (3′ and 4′). Therefore, we can conclude that gold shows a different behavior in the face of RNS compared with ROS where it is a better scavenger of ROS than RNS.
Parallel random bitstreams from a single source of entropy based on nonthermal electrochemical microplasma
Authors: Allagui Anis , Elwakil Ahmed S. , Rojas Andrea E. , Majzoub Sohaib , Alawadhi Hussain
Published: August 2020

This study presents the simultaneous generation of two uncorrelated and continuous high‐quality random bitstreams originating from a single physical system based on confined, nonthermal electrochemical microplasma operating under atmospheric conditions. The randomness is intrinsically inherited from the time‐resolved electrical current and optical emission intensities of the microplasma system, which were collected using wide bandwidth current probe and photodetection device. The parallel bitstreams pass unambiguously all 15 NIST SP 800‐22 statistical tests without the need for any data post‐processing. Using the NIST SP 800‐90B package, the min‐entropy estimates of both noise sources were found to be no less than 0.994. This parallel data acquisition can be viewed as a simple strategy to increase the bit generation rate without compromising their quality or adding post‐processing routines.
Cystic fibrosis year in review 2019: Section 1 CFTR modulators
Authors: Savant Adrienne P. , McColley Susanna A.
Published: August 2020

During the year 2019, research and case reports/series in the field of cystic fibrosis (CF) were in abundance. To adequately address the large body of CF research published during 2019, the CF year in review will be divided into three sections. This report is the first section, focusing specifically on new research related to cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator modulator therapy. Additional sections will concentrate on pulmonary and infections research and the multisystem effects of CF. It is an exciting time to be providing care for patients and their families with CF with all the exciting new discoveries that will be shared in these reviews.
Kinetic‐Pharmacodynamic Model of Platelet Time Course in Patients With Moderate‐to‐Severe Atopic Dermatitis Treated With Oral Janus Kinase 1 Inhibitor Abrocitinib
Authors: Soto Elena , Banfield Christopher , Gupta Pankaj , Peterson Mark C.
Published: August 2020

The oral Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) inhibitor abrocitinib reduced signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis (AD) in a placebo‐controlled, randomized, double‐blind, phase IIb trial (dose range 10–200 mg). A kinetic‐pharmacodynamic (K‐PD) model consisting of proliferation, maturation, and blood circulation compartments was developed to characterize platelet count changes during the study. The K‐PD model consisted of a drug elimination constant, four system parameters describing platelet dynamics, variance terms, correlation, and residual errors. Overall, these patients exhibited mean transit time from progenitor cells to platelets of 8.2 days (longer than the reported megakaryocyte life span), likely arising from JAK1‐induced perturbations of platelet progenitor homeostasis. The final model described dose‐related platelet count declines until nadir at treatment week 4 and return to baseline levels thereafter. The model was deemed suitable to support the design of subsequent abrocitinib AD trials and indicated limited clinically relevant platelet reductions in the range of doses studied.
Implications for Auxetic Response in Liquid Crystalline Polymers: X‐Ray Scattering and Space‐Filling Molecular Modeling
Authors: Verma Prateek , He Chaobin , Griffin Anselm C.
Published: August 2020

Five transverse rod (TR)‐containing main‐chain liquid crystalline polymers (LCPs) are examined in both the powder and fiber forms by wide angle X‐ray diffraction. Data from the diffraction experiments are consistent with the site‐connectivity‐driven TR‐reorientation mechanism for intrinsic auxetic character in these macromolecules. Shifts in peak maxima, intensity distributions in the interchain interaction region, and calculated volume increase accompanying fiber formation are all in line with expectations from considerations of this mechanism. The narrow window for experimental conditions necessary for fiber preparation and subsequent X‐ray observation of this phenomenon is detailed. A close examination of space‐filling Corey–Pauling–Koltun (CPK) molecular models reveals the details of local packing of rods and connected polymer chains in the quiescent nematic polymer melt prior to fiber drawing. It is found that two rod‐reorientation possibilities exist each of which leads to increased interchain separation as required for auxetic response. Suggestions for future experiments and materials design for new LCPs are described.