bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abnormal distraction and load‐specific connectivity during working memory in cognitively normal Parkinson's disease
Authors: Harrington Deborah L. , Shen Qian , Vincent Filoteo Julian , Litvan Irene , Huang Mingxiong , Castillo Gabriel N. , Lee Roland R. , Bayram Ece
Published: November 2019

Visuospatial working memory impairments are common in Parkinson's disease (PD), yet the underlying neural mechanisms are poorly understood. The present study investigated abnormalities in context‐dependent functional connectivity of working memory hubs in PD. Cognitively normal PD and control participants underwent fMRI while performing a visuospatial working memory task. To identify sources of dysfunction, distraction, and load‐modulated connectivity were disentangled for encoding and retrieval phases of the task. Despite normal working memory performance in PD, two features of abnormal connectivity were observed, one due to a loss in normal context‐related connectivity and another related to upregulated connectivity of hubs for which the controls did not exhibit context‐dependent connectivity. During encoding, striatal‐prefrontal coupling was lost in PD, both during distraction and high memory loads. However, long‐range connectivity of prefrontal, medial temporal and occipital hubs was upregulated in a context‐specific manner. Memory retrieval was characterized by different aberrant connectivity patterns, wherein precuneus connectivity was upregulated during distraction, whereas prefrontal couplings were lost as memory load approached capacity limits. Features of abnormal functional connectivity in PD had pathological and compensatory influences as they correlated with poorer working memory or better visuospatial skills. The results offer new insights into working memory‐related signatures of aberrant cortico–cortical and corticostriatal functional connections, which may portend future declines in different facets of working memory.
Expression signature of miRNAs and the potential role of miR‐195‐5p in high‐glucose–treated rat cardiomyocytes
Authors: Shi Yuanqi , Yan Caichuan , Li Yang , Zhang Yuhao , Zhang Guocui , Li Mingzhu , Li Baoxin , Zhao Xin
Published: November 2019

MicroRNAs are endogenous small noncoding RNAs that posttranscriptionally regulate the expression of target genes and play crucial roles in diverse physiopathologic processes. In the current study, we examined the microRNA (miRNA) expression profile of high‐glucose–treated neonatal rat cardiomyocytes and the potential mechanisms. Differentially expressed miRNAs were analyzed by a miRNA microarray and validated by a quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction in high‐glucose–treated rat cardiomyocytes. Based on the results of our previous study and the bioinformatics prediction, we identified miR‐195‐5p/SGK1/Nedd4‐2/hERG as the top‐ranked signal pathway in diabetes cell model in vitro. In summary, our present study provides novel insights into the regulatory mechanism of miR‐195‐5p/SGK1/Nedd4‐2/hERG in rat cardiomyocytes under high‐glucose stress, which may provide a novel idea for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for diabetic cardiomyopathy in the future.
Investigation of enterprise value using information transparency: The case of optoelectronic industry
Authors: Yang Tzu‐Yi , Chou Chin‐Mei , Yang Yu‐Tai
Published: November 2019

The corporate information given to the investors is insufficient if it is only financial information, and thus, it should include other nonfinancial information, such as relations with the investors, to let the general public accurately understand the situation of how the enterprise creates its value, the process of corporate transparency. Therefore, this research discusses the relationship between information transparency and enterprise value (EV) in stock‐listed companies in the optoelectronic industry that is one of the key industries in Taiwan, and using unbalanced panel random‐effects regression investigates 72 listed firms in the optoelectronic industry. Determining information transparency has a significant influence on EV.
Exosomes derived from adipose tissue, bone marrow, and umbilical cord blood for cardioprotection after myocardial infarction
Authors: Xu Huiyu , Wang Zhongchao , Liu Longmei , Zhang Baoxia , Li Bao
Published: November 2019

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential for improving cardiac function following myocardial infarction (MI). This study was performed to explore the cardioprotection of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs), adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs), and umbilical cord blood‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCBMSCs) for myocardium in rats after MI. MI models were established in rats, which were injected with PBS, BMMSCs, ADMSCs, and UCMSCs. Cardiac function was detected by ultrasonic cardiogram. TTC staining, TUNEL staining, and immunohistochemistry were adopted to determine infarction area, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and microvascular density (MVD), respectively. Exosomes were derived from BMMSCs, ADMSCs, and UCBMSCs, and identified by morphological observation and CD63 expression detection. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) were isolated and cultured with hypoxia, subjected to PBS and exosomes derived from BMMSCs, ADMSCs, and UCMSCs. Flow cytometry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay were used to determine NRCM apoptosis and the levels of angiogenesis‐related markers (VEGF, bFGF, and HGF). According to ultrasonic cardiogram, BMMSCs, ADMSCs, and UCMSCs facilitated the cardiac function of MI rats. Furthermore, three kinds of MSCs inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis, infarction area, and increased MVD. NRCMs treated with exosomes derived from BMMSCs, ADMSCs, and UCMSCs reduced the NRCM apoptosis and promoted angiogenesis by increasing levels of VEGF, bFGF, and HGF. Notably, exosomes from ADMSCs had the most significant effect. On the basis of the results obtained from this study, exosomes derived from BMMSCs, ADMSCs, and UCBMSCs inhibited the cardiomyocyte apoptosis and promoted angiogenesis, thereby improving cardiac function and protecting myocardium. Notably, exosomes from ADMSCs stimulated most of the cardioprotection factors.
Atherosclerosis‐associated endothelial cell apoptosis by miRNA let7‐b‐mediated downregulation of HAS‐2
Authors: Zhu Lijie , Li Qingman , Qi Datun , Niu Fangqing , Li Qingmin , Yang Honghui , Gao Chuanyu
Published: November 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play essential roles in the regulation and pathophysiology of various types of human diseases including atherosclerosis. Increasing numbers of miRNAs have been identified to be important regulators in the progression of atherosclerosis by regulating gene expression. However, functional miRNAs and the underlying mechanisms involved in atherosclerosis need fully elucidation. In the present study, the function of miRNA let‐7b was investigated in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). The results showed that downregulation of let‐7b in the high‐fat diet mice and HAECs was inversely correlated with the expression level of HAS‐2. upregulation of let‐7b significantly reduced apoptosis of HAECs. The results also revealed that HAS‐2 was a target gene of let‐7b and HAS‐2 reduction reversed the antiapoptotic effect of let‐7b through regulation of the P13K/Akt pathway. These results together suggest the potential of regulating the let‐7b expression and endothelial apoptosis against development and progression of atherosclerosis.
Individual and perceived community determinants of sense of community: The role of universalistic values
Authors: Mannarini Terri , Rochira Alessia , Ciavolino Enrico , Salvatore Sergio
Published: November 2019

Research on the determinants of the psychological sense of community (PSoC) is of particular importance to community interventions. A cross‐sectional study involving 778 residents in an Italian local community explored through a mediation model the effects on PSoC of an individual cultural variable that has been scarcely investigated in PSoC research, that is, values–specifically, universalism–, and a perceived contextual variable, that is, the assessment of community services (a component of residential satisfaction). Results showed that universalism increased PSoC both directly and indirectly, having an effect also on the evaluation of community services, which, in comparison to values, showed a greater direct impact on PSoC. Limitations and implications for community interventions are discussed.
Leaf and stem micromorphology of Byrsonima sericea DC. by light and scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Silva Anauara L. e , de Lima Terceiro Lucas E. , de Lima Matheus F. , Costa‐Silva Rafael , dos Santos Ednalva A. V. , Agra Maria de Fátima
Published: November 2019

Micromorphological studies were carried out using multiple microscopic techniques on the leaves and stem bark of Byrsonima sericea DC. (Malpighiaceae), a species popularly known as “murici” and used medicinally, in order to identify both qualitative and quantitative features of leaf and stem anatomy and histochemistry as differential parameters to support both the quality control of its ethnodrugs and the taxonomy of the genus. The study was conducted using traditional techniques of plant anatomy, histochemical tests, and the stomatal index (SI). Byrsonima sericea has hypostomatic leaves, anomocytic stomata, and its epidermal walls are anticlinal and straight on the adaxial and curved on the abaxial faces. T‐shaped trichomes were observed mainly on the abaxial surface. The leaf epidermis showed waxes syntopism on both surfaces, with the occurrence of different crystalloid forms on a single phylloplane. The mesophyll is dorsiventral, with 3‐4 collateral vascular bundles. Phenolic compounds, starch, and proteins were identified in the petiole and stem. The SI was 14.5 ± 0.53% (p < .05), but did not showed significant variations. A set of characters were found to be distinctive for the studied species, however, constituting parameters that could be used to separate B. sericea from other species of the genus.
Design of phenanthrimidazole‐pendant cyclam and cyclen macrocyclic complex ligands as inorganic hosts: Photophysics, electrochemistry, and bimetallic complex formation
Authors: Yilmaz Obali Aslihan
Published: November 2019

Novel ruthenium(II)bpy complexes of the phenanthrimidazole‐pendant cyclen and cyclam macrocyclic ligands were synthesized as inorganic host molecules. Inorganic host design was planned as a “complex ligand” form because of its tetraaza macrocyclic unit, which has the ability to coordinate to the metals. Photophysical properties and metal selectivity of inorganic hosts RuL1A and RuL2 complex ligands were investigated by UV‐vis and fluorescence spectroscopy in aqueous medium. Among Ag(I), Li(I), Na(I), K(I), Cd(II), Cr(II), Fe(II), Hg(II), Ni(II), Pb(II), Zn(II), Cu(II), Mn(III), and Co(III) metal ions, Fe(II) addition causes spectral changes for both RuL1A and RuL2 complex ligands. Electrochemical studies were performed for RuL1B and also for cis‐[Ru(bpy)2Cl2]. Bimetallic complexes [[Ru(bpy)2([Ni(2‐(4‐((1,4,8,11‐tetraazacyclotetradecan‐1‐yl)methyl)phenyl)‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐f][1,10]phenanthroline])](ClO4)4, RuL1‐NiA and [Ru(bpy)2([Ni(2‐(4‐((1,4,8,11‐tetraazacyclotetradecan‐1‐yl)methyl)phenyl)‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐f][1,10]phenanthroline])]Cl4, RuL1‐NiB solid complexes were also obtained by the reaction of the RuL1B and Nickel(II).
An efficacious synthesis of N‐1–, C‐3–substituted indole derivatives and their antimicrobial studies
Authors: Jain Palak , Utreja Divya , Sharma Poonam
Published: November 2019

A novel series of 11 C‐3– and N‐1–substituted oxoacetamide indole derivatives were synthesized by reacting with various aromatic amines and alkyl halides. These compounds were characterized by using various spectral techniques, ie, 1HNMR, 1HNMR‐D2O, 13CNMR, UV, elemental analysis, IR, and mass spectrometery. In vitro, antimicrobial studies of resultant compounds were carried out against two bacterial strains, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas oryzihabitans using disc plate method. All the tested compounds showed vital efficiency as antimicrobial agents against both the bacterial strains. The results revealed that synthesized indole derivative 2‐(1‐(3‐bromopropyl)‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl)‐N‐(2‐nitrophenyl)‐2‐oxoacetamide displayed the best antimicrobial activity as compared with all other synthesized compounds.
High HIV prevalence and associated risk factors among transgender women in China: a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Yan Hongjing , Xiao Wenjing , Chen Yunting , Chen Yuanfang , Lin Jessica , Yan Zihan , Wilson Erin , McFarland Willi
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Transgender women may face the highest prevalence of HIV of any population, experiencing a disproportionate burden of disease frequently confirmed in surveys throughout the developing and developed world. However, few studies have been conducted specifically for transgender women in China. This study aimed to measure HIV prevalence and explore risk factors for infection in a diverse sample of Chinese transgender women to help advocate for prevention and care interventions for this population.

Methods

From July 2018 to May 2019, we adapted a respondent‐driven sampling (RDS) approach to recruit a diverse sample of 250 transgender women through chains of peer referrals in two cities of eastern China, Nanjing and Suzhou. Eligible participants (i.e. 18 years of age or older, living in Jiangsu province and assigned male sex at birth but currently self‐identified as a gender different from male) completed a self‐administered questionnaire on a mobile phone to collect demographic characteristics and risk behaviours and underwent HIV testing.

Results and discussion

The survey sample was young (82% under age 35 years), with 28.8% having a university degree, 39.2% reporting work at entertainment venues, 47.6% ever having taken hormones and 6.4% being diagnosed with an STI in the last year. One in five (20.8%) reported having engaged in sex work. HIV prevalence was 14.8% (95% CI 10.6 to 19.8), with 75.6% of those testing HIV positive reporting they were already aware of their serostatus. In multivariate analysis, HIV prevalence was significantly higher among transgender women above the age of 24 years, those who work at entertainment venues, who never have taken hormones, and who had been diagnosed with an STI in the last year.

Conclusions

The prevalence of HIV among transgender women in our study, at 14.8%, is among the highest detected in any population in eastern China. Chinese transgender women may therefore follow the disparity in the burden of HIV noted worldwide. Data support policies to prioritize transgender women for HIV testing outreach, for in‐depth research to better understand the specific drivers of infection in this population, and for trans‐friendly HIV care and prevention programmes to address their specific needs.
Whole‐Liver Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Histogram Analysis for the Diagnosis and Staging of Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Zheng You , Xu Yong‐Sheng , Liu Zhao , Liu Hai‐Feng , Zhai Ya‐Nan , Mao Xiao‐Rong , Lei Jun‐Qiang
Published: November 2019

Background

Conventional diffusion‐weighted imaging is limited in the quantitative evaluation of liver fibrosis, and whole‐liver apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) histogram analysis might contribute to the diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis.

Purpose

To explore the value of whole‐liver ADC histogram parameters in the diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Twenty individuals with no liver disease and 86 patients with liver fibrosis, including 30 with chronic viral hepatitis, 29 with autoimmune hepatitis, and 27 with unexplained liver fibrosis patients.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T/T1‐weighted, T2‐weighted, and diffusion‐weighted images.

Assessment

A region of interest (ROI) was drawn in each slice of the diffusion‐weighted images. Whole‐liver histogram parameters were obtained with dedicated software by accumulating all ROIs. The effectiveness of the parameters in differentiating stage 1 or greater (≥F1), stage 2 or greater (≥F2), and stage 3 or greater (≥F3) liver fibrosis was assessed.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U‐test and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

Kurtosis, entropy, skewness, mode, and 90th and 75th percentiles exhibited significant differences among the pathological fibrosis stages (P < 0.05). Kurtosis was found to be the most meaningful parameter in differentiating fibrosis stages of the viral hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, and unexplained liver fibrosis group (area under the curve) (AUC = 0.793, 0.771, 0.798, respectively). In the combined liver fibrosis group, kurtosis achieved the highest AUC (0.801; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.702–0.900; sensitivity: 0.750; specificity: 0.850; positive likelihood ratio: 4.953; negative likelihood ratio: 0.302; positive predictive value: 0.946; negative predictive value: 0.486), with a cutoff value of 1.817, in differentiating fibrosis stage ≥F1.

Data Conclusion

Kurtosis, entropy, skewness, mode, and 90th and 75th percentiles may contribute to the diagnosis and staging of liver fibrosis, especially kurtosis.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1745–1754.
Early prediction of neoadjuvant treatment outcome in locally advanced breast cancer using parametric response mapping and radial heterogeneity from breast MRI
Authors: Drisis Stylianos , El Adoui Mohammed , Flamen Patrick , Benjelloun Mohammed , Dewind Roland , Paesmans Mariane , Ignatiadis Michail , Bali Maria , Lemort Marc
Published: November 2019

Background

Early prediction of nonresponse is essential in order to avoid inefficient treatments.

Purpose

To evaluate if parametrical response mapping (PRM)‐derived biomarkers could predict early morphological response (EMR) and pathological complete response (pCR) 24–72 hours after initiation of chemotherapy treatment and whether concentric analysis of nonresponding PRM regions could better predict response.

Study Type

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively acquired cohort, nonrandomized, monocentric, diagnostic study.

Population

Sixty patients were initially recruited, with 39 women participating in the final cohort.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 1.5T scanner was used for MRI examinations.

Assessment

Dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MR images were acquired at baseline (timepoint 1, TP1), 24–72 hours after the first chemotherapy (TP2), and after the end of anthracycline treatment (TP3). PRM was performed after fusion of T1 subtraction images from TP1 and TP2 using an affine registration algorithm. Pixels with an increase of more than 10% of their value (PRMdce+) were corresponding nonresponding regions of the tumor. Patients with a decrease of maximum diameter (%dDmax) between TP1 and TP3 of more than 30% were defined as EMR responders. pCR patients achieved a residual cancer burden score of 0.

Statistical Tests

T‐test, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and logistic regression were used for the analysis.

Results

PRM showed a statistical difference between pCR response groups (P < 0.01) and AUC of 0.88 for the prediction of non‐pCR. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that PRMdce+ and Grade II were significant (P < 0.01) for non‐pCR prediction (AUC = 0.94). Peripheral tumor region demonstrated higher performance for the prediction of non‐pCR (AUC = 0.85) than intermediate and central zones; however, statistical comparison showed no significant difference.

Data Conclusion

PRM could be predictive of non‐pCR 24–72 hours after initiation of chemotherapy treatment. Moreover, the peripheral region showed increased AUC for non‐pCR prediction and increased signal intensity during treatment for non‐pCR tumors, information that could be used for optimal tissue sampling.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 4

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1403–1411.
Noninvasive Monitoring of the Response of Human Lungs to Low‐Dose Lipopolysaccharide Inhalation Challenge Using MRI: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Kern Agilo L. , Biller Heike , Klimeš Filip , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Gutberlet Marcel , Renne Julius , Müller Meike , Holz Olaf , Wacker Frank , Hohlfeld Jens M. , Vogel‐Claussen Jens
Published: November 2019

Background

Development of antiinflammatory drugs for lung diseases demands novel methods for noninvasive assessment of inflammatory processes in the lung.

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI, 1H T1 time mapping, and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) perfusion MRI for monitoring the response of human lungs to low‐dose inhaled lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge compared to inflammatory cell counts from induced‐sputum analysis.

Study Type

Prospective feasibility study.

Population

Ten healthy volunteers underwent MRI before and 6 hours after inhaled LPS challenge with subsequent induced‐sputum collection.

Field Strength/Sequences

1.5T/hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI: Interleaved multiecho imaging of dissolved and gas phase, ventilation imaging, dissolved‐phase spectroscopy, and chemical shift saturation recovery spectroscopy. 1H MRI: Inversion recovery fast low‐angle shot imaging for T1 mapping, time‐resolved angiography with stochastic trajectories for DCE MRI.

Assessment

Dissolved‐phase ratios of 129Xe in red blood cells (RBC), tissue/plasma (TP) and gas phase (GP), ventilation defect percentage, septal wall thickness, surface‐to‐volume ratio, capillary transit time, lineshape parameters in dissolved‐phase spectroscopy, 1H T1 time, blood volume, flow, and mean transit time were determined and compared to cell counts.

Statistical Tests

Wilcoxon signed‐rank test, Pearson correlation.

Results

The percentage of neutrophils in sputum was markedly increased after LPS inhalation compared to baseline, P = 0.002. The group median RBC‐TP ratio was significantly reduced from 0.40 to 0.31, P = 0.004, and 1H T1 was significantly elevated from 1157.6 msec to 1187.8 msec after LPS challenge, P = 0.027. DCE MRI exhibited no significant changes in blood volume, P = 0.64, flow, P = 0.17, and mean transit time, P = 0.11.

Data Conclusion

Hyperpolarized 129Xe dissolved‐phase MRI and 1H T1 mapping may provide biomarkers for noninvasive assessment of the response of human lungs to LPS inhalation. By its specificity to the alveolar region, hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI together with 1H T1 mapping adds value to sputum analysis.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1669–1676.
Advances and Promises of Nutritional Influences on Natural Bone Repair
Authors: Roberts Joseph L. , Drissi Hicham
Published: November 2019

Impaired fracture healing continues to be a significant public health issue. This is more frequently observed in aging populations and patients with co‐morbidities that can directly influence bone repair. Tremendous progress has been made in the development of biologics to enhance and accelerate the healing process; however, side‐effects persist that can cause significant discomfort and tissue damage. This has been the impetus for the development of safe and natural strategies to hasten natural bone healing. Of the many possible approaches, nutrition represents a safe, affordable, and non‐invasive strategy to positively influence each phase of fracture repair. However, our understanding of how healing can be hindered by malnutrition or enhanced with nutritional supplementation has lagged behind the advancements in both surgical management and the knowledge of molecular and cellular drivers of skeletal fracture repair. This review serves to bridge this knowledge gap as well as define the importance of nutrition during fracture healing. The extant literature clearly indicates that pre‐existing nutritional deficiencies should be corrected, and nutritional status should be carefully monitored to prevent the development of malnutrition for the best possible healing outcome. It remains unclear, however, whether the provision of nutrients beyond sufficiency has any benefit on fracture repair and patient outcomes. The combined body of pre‐clinical studies using a variety of animal models suggests a promising role of nutrition as an adjuvant therapy to facilitate fracture repair, but extensive research is needed, specifically at the clinical level, to clarify the utility of nutritional interventions in orthopedics. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:695‐707, 2020
Detection and characterization of olmutinib reactive metabolites by LC–MS/MS: Elucidation of bioactivation pathways
Authors: Attwa Mohamed W. , Kadi Adnan A. , Abdelhameed Ali S.
Published: November 2019

Olmutinib (Olita™) is an orally bioavailable third generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Olmutinib was approved in South Korea in May 2016 for the treatment of patients suffering from locally advanced or metastatic epidermal growth factor receptor T790M mutation‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer. Reactive olmutinib intermediates may be responsible for the severe side effects associated with the treatment. However, literature review revealed no previous reports on the structural identification of reactive olmutinib metabolites. In this work, the formation of reactive olmutinib metabolites in rat liver microsomes was investigated. Methoxylamine, glutathione, and potassium cyanide were used as capturing agents for aldehyde, iminoquinones, and iminium intermediates, respectively. The stable complexes formed were identified using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The major phase I metabolic pathway observed in vitro was hydroxylation of the piperazine ring. Seven potential reactive intermediates were characterized, including three iminium ions, three iminoquinones, and one aldehyde. Based on the findings, various bioactivation pathways were postulated. Hence, identifying the reactive intermediates of olmutinib that may be the cause of severe side effects can provide new insights, leading to improved treatments for patients.
Application of capillary electrophoretic methods for the analysis of plant phloem and xylem saps composition: A review
Authors: Melicherová Natália , Řemínek Roman , Foret František
Published: November 2019

Plant vascular tissue is essential for the exchange of water, nutrients, metabolic products, and signals among distant organs in cormophytes. The compositions of phloem and xylem saps are highly dependent on many internal and external factors, and thus their analysis provides a valuable insight into plant physiology, growth, and development as well as nutrition status or presence of biotic or abiotic stresses. Capillary electrophoresis characterized by highly efficient separations and minuscule sample requirements represents a suitable analytical technique for this purpose because the sap constitutes a complex mixture with generally minimal availability. This review aims at providing a comprehensive overview of published capillary electrophoretic methods for the analysis of primary components present in the phloem and xylem saps of higher plants.
Clinician adherence to the clinical practice guideline: Acute otitis externa
Authors: Mildenhall Nicholas , Honeybrook Adam , Risoli Thomas , Peskoe Sarah B. , Kim Amie , Kaylie David
Published: November 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Over 10 years have passed since the Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Otitis Externa (CPG‐AOE) was first published, and it has been several years since its update. We sought to assess clinicians’ adherence as well as referral patterns.

Study Design

Survey.

Methods

A 23‐question survey was distributed to regional primary care clinicians evaluating demographic data, perception of the clinical practice guideline (CPG), adherence, and details of specialist referral. Statistical analysis was performed to compare adherence and referral patterns using the Fisher exact test or the χ2 test.

Results

One hundred seventeen clinicians completed the survey. Fifteen respondents (12.8%) had reviewed the CPG. The recommendations with the least reported adherence were pain management (39.1%) and accounting for prior radiotherapy as a modifying factor (43.0%). The recommendations of prescribing ototopical therapy and avoiding systemic antimicrobials in uncomplicated acute otitis externa had adherence of 94.0% and 83.8%, respectively. When analyzed by provider type (e.g., resident, nurse practitioner/physician assistant), there were no significant differences in adherence. No significant differences in adherence were observed based on previous review of the CPG. When reporting frequency of specialist referral, the majority of respondents selected rarely (53.9%). The most favored reason for referral was symptoms >4 weeks (86.3%).

Conclusions

Of the providers who responded, very few had reviewed the CPG‐AOE. Despite the added emphasis on pain management in the CPG update, this recommendation had the lowest adherence. Rates of adherence were similar across provider types and did not differ significantly if the CPG was reviewed. Efforts at improved provider education should be considered to increase adherence to the CPG.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130:1565–1571, 2020
Foraging strategy impacts plastic ingestion risk in seabirds
Authors: Caldwell Aliya , Seavey Jennifer , Craig Elizabeth
Published: November 2019

Plastic debris is a pervasive environmental challenge described as a worldwide crisis for marine life, and seabirds are particularly sensitive to the pollutant. Seabirds exhibit a range of foraging strategies, from generalist scavengers to specialist predators, which likely influences their risk of plastic ingestion. Our study evaluates this relationship using two congeneric seabirds, including a generalist species (the Herring Gull, Larus argentatus) and a more specialist species (the Great Black‐backed Gull, Larus marinus) nesting in the Gulf of Maine. Analysis for stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) was used to evaluate interspecific differences in diet and niche size, while dietary samples were collected for analysis of plastic ingestion. Herring Gulls exhibited significantly larger isotopic niche size and displayed significantly higher rates of plastic ingestion than Great Black‐backed Gulls (p value < 0.01), though the range of physical characteristics and relative size of plastics in the diet did not differ significantly.
Split‐Sided Chest Study of Skin Rejuvenation Comparing Low‐Energy, 1,927‐nm Thulium Fractional Laser Treatment Prior to Photodynamic Therapy Versus Photodynamic Therapy Alone
Authors: Croix Jennifer , Burge Shannon , Chwalek Jennifer , Gmyrek Robyn , Chapas Anne
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives

Treatment of photoaging and intrinsic aging of the chest, with the associated concerns of skin roughness, uneven pigmentation, laxity, atrophy, and telangiectasias, can be problematic because of the potential for worsened esthetic outcomes with existing treatments. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of using nonablative fractional laser therapy (FLT) pretreatment with photodynamic therapy (PDT) versus PDT alone for chest rejuvenation.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In a randomized, evaluator‐blinded, split‐sided study, adult female patients with photodamage to the chest received three treatment courses over an 8‐week period with follow‐up visits at Weeks 12 and 20. FLT was applied to one side of the chest, randomly assigned at baseline, followed by aminolevulinic acid‐based PDT, delivered using a thermal, short incubation, broad area technique, to both sides of the chest. In‐person and photographic assessments were conducted using five‐point scales to evaluate outcomes including rhytides, pigmentation, skin texture, and telangiectasias.

Results

Eleven adults completed the study, of whom 11 had improved scores for rhytides and 10 had improved scores for skin texture at Week 20. There was no significant difference in any efficacy outcome between FLT and PDT and standard PDT alone. The severity of adverse events was rated significantly greater with the combined FLT–PDT treatment vs PDT alone.

Conclusions

Significant improvements were observed vs baseline for both sides of the chest treated with FLT–PDT or standard PDT following three treatment sessions. No significant difference in efficacy was observed between treatment approaches, although adverse events were more severe on the FLT‐pretreated side. This study was not registered as it qualified as a nonsignificant risk study. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Combination of Dual Wavelength Picosecond and Nanosecond Pulse Width Neodymium‐Doped Yttrium–Aluminum–Garnet Lasers for Tattoo Removal
Authors: Kato Harunosuke , Kantaro Doi , Kanayama Koji , Araki Jun , Nakatsukasa Shuichi , Chi Daekwan , Mori Masanori , Fuse Yuma , Sakae Yuki , Uozumi Tomomi
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives

Tattoo removal by laser has been mostly performed using Q‐switched laser, which has nanosecond pulse width. In recent years, the efficacy of treatment with picosecond pulse width laser has also been reported.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Using a picosecond‐domain, neodymium‐doped yttrium–aluminum–garnet laser with a potassium‐titanyl‐phosphate frequency‐doubling crystal, we performed a retrospective clinical study with combination treatment using pulse widths of 750 ps and 2 ns. The number of treatments was compared with the Kirby–Desai score. Tissue changes immediately after laser irradiation at 2 ns and 750 ps were compared using an electron microscope.

Results

The combination treatment using pulse widths of 2 ns and 750 ps was safe and more effective than the Q‐switched neodymium‐doped yttrium–aluminum–garnet laser treatment. Tattoo removal was possible with significantly fewer treatment numbers than the Kirby–Desai score, without adverse events. The results from the scanning electron microscope revealed that ink particles irradiated by 750 ps were more dispersed than those by 2 ns.

Conclusions

The combination treatment with pulse widths of 2 ns and 750 ps and 1064 nm and 532 nm wavelengths using the neodymium‐doped yttrium–aluminum–garnet laser was safe and effective and can be a useful option for tattoo removal. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Amorphous Silk Fibroin Nanofiber Hydrogels with Enhanced Mechanical Properties
Authors: Liu Jiawei , Ding Zhaozhao , Lu Guozhong , Wang Jingui , Wang Ling , Lu Qiang
Published: November 2019

Silk fibroin (SF) hydrogels have been engineered as universal substrates for various tissue regenerations and drug delivery. Although different physical and chemical crosslinking strategies are developed to form SF hydrogels with suitable performances, a significant gap remains to match specific requirements of various tissues. Here, amorphous SF nanofibers with more tyrosine residues outside the surfaces are used to replace traditional SF. Under the same crosslinking conditions, the use of amorphous SF nanofibers results in tougher properties, four times higher stiffness than that from traditional SF solutions. Unlike previous SF hydrogels, the SF nanofiber hydrogels show high tunability in wide modulus range of 0.6–160 kPa under low SF concentrations (below 5 wt%), showing improved mechanical match with various soft tissues. Better stability and cytocompatibility are also achieved, further confirming the superiority of the hydrogels as the tissue substrates. Therefore, a feasible strategy is developed to optimize the performances of SF hydrogel via tuning the nano‐structural state in aqueous solutions, which will enrich SF‐based hydrogel family in future.
The Adhesion‐Enhanced Contact Electrification and Efficiency of Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Lapčinskis Linards , Mālnieks Kaspars , Blūms Juris , Knite Māris , Oras Sven , Käämbre Tanel , Vlassov Sergei , Antsov Mikk , Timusk Martin , Šutka Andris
Published: November 2019

In the present work, the contact electrification of polymers that differ in adhesion strength is studied. Electrical current is measured along with adhesion in macroscale contacting‐separation experiments. Additionally, local adhesion and roughness are studied with atomic force microscopy to get deeper insight into relations between surface properties and electrification. Measurements reveal that higher surface charge is formed on more adhesive surfaces, thus confirming covalent bond cleavage as a mechanism for contact electrification of polymers. Investigated materials possess enhanced contact electrification making them attractive candidates for the conversion of mechanical energy to electrical in triboelectric nanogenerator devices.
Photo‐Induced Modification of Nanocellulose: The Design of Self‐Fluorescent Drug Carriers
Authors: Khine Yee Yee , Batchelor Rhiannon , Raveendran Radhika , Stenzel Martina H.
Published: November 2019

Nanocellulose is an excellent carrier to deliver drugs, as the material is biocompatible and has a desirable non‐spherical shape. However, nanocellulose displays low solubility in aqueous solution and needs to be modified with water‐soluble polymers in order to achieve high colloidal stability. In this study, (2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)oxyl or (2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)oxidanyl (TEMPO)‐oxidized cellulose nanofibers bearing carboxylic acid moieties (TOCNs) are modified by nitrile imine‐mediated tetrazole/carboxylic acid ligation. The advantage of this reaction is that TOCNs do not need to be modified further and the polymer with tetrazole end‐functionalities can be directly clicked onto the TOCNs forming fluorescent functional groups. Poly(2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate) with a tetrazole end‐functionality is prepared using RAFT polymerization. The polymer is mixed with TOCNs and after irradiation at λ = 326 nm for 10 h, fluorescent pHEA‐g‐TOCNs are obtained. The polymer‐grafted nanocellulose is found to disperse well in water and has only limited albumin binding. The uptake of these nanoparticles by MCF‐7 breast cancer cell lines can now be monitored by fluorescent microscopy without further modification. Excess negatively charged carboxylic groups of TOCNs allow doxorubicin loading by electrostatic interactions at various drug‐loading capacities. Higher drug loading is more efficient in inhibiting the cell proliferation, highlighting the effect of drug loading on toxicity.
Purifying Low‐Volume Combinatorial Polymer Libraries with Gel Filtration Columns
Authors: Upadhya Rahul , Kanagala Mythili J. , Gormley Adam J.
Published: November 2019

Recent advances in oxygen‐tolerant controlled/living radical polymer chemistry now enable efficient synthesis of diverse and combinatorial polymer libraries. While library synthesis has been dramatically simplified, equally efficient purification strategies for removal of small‐molecule impurities are not yet established in high throughput settings. It is shown that gel filtration columns for chromatography frequently used in the protein science community are well suited for high throughput polymer purification. Using either single‐use columns or gel filtration plates, the purification of 32 diverse polymers is demonstrated in a library with >95% removal of small molecule impurities and >85% polymer retention in a single purification step. Doing so replaces the typical procedure of polymer precipitation, which requires solvent optimization for each polymer in a complex library. Overall, this work raises awareness in the polymer science community that gel filtration is amenable to purification of large polymer libraries and can speed up the progress of combinatorial polymer chemistry.
Improved results on the stability analysis of linear neutral systems with delay decay approach
Authors: Altun Yener
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the investigation of the asymptotical stability of linear neutral systems with time‐varying delay has been presented. In order to achieve the desired results, the integral inequality approach was used to express relationships between terms of Newton‐Leibniz formula technique and was constructed an appropriate Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional. By improving a delay decay approach, the stability criteria for the zero solution of system were formulated as linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) which can be easily solved. Two numerical examples have been given to show the applicability of established assumptions and the effectiveness of proposed method by MATLAB‐Simulink.
Characteristic mode analysis and design of a slot‐loaded low‐profile wideband microstrip patch antenna
Authors: Chunling Chen
Published: November 2019

In this letter, a slot‐loaded low‐profile wideband microstrip patch antenna is presented and analyzed. The theory of characteristic modes (TCM) is applied to study the bandwidth and the radiation performance of the proposed antenna. We find that the resonant frequencies of two characteristic modes, with similar characteristic current distributions and far field radiation patterns, are close to each other. By exciting these two modes simultaneously, the proposed microstrip patch antenna attains wide band properties. In addition, the radiation patterns are stable over the whole passband, which is consistent with the prediction by the TCM. The measurements reveal that the antenna's operating frequency ranges from 2.275 to 2.705 GHz with standing wave ratio less than 2, which exhibits a wide impedance bandwidth of 17.3%. The thickness of the proposed antenna is only 0.04λ0. The realized gain is stable and varies between 8.2 and 9.7 dBi within the whole passband. Consequently, the TCM shows potential applications in the area of the design of a high‐performance slot‐loaded microstrip patch antenna.
Polyspermy in angiosperms: Its contribution to polyploid formation and speciation
Authors: Toda Erika , Okamoto Takashi
Published: November 2019

Polyploidization has played a major role in the long‐term diversification and evolutionary success of angiosperms. Triploid formation among diploid plants, which is generally considered to be achieved by fertilization of an unreduced gamete with a reduced one, has been accepted as a means of polyploid production. In addition, it has been supposed that polyspermy also contributes to the triploid formation in maize, wheat, and some orchids; however, such a mechanism has been considered uncommon because reproducing the polyspermic situation and unambiguously investigating developmental profiles of polyspermic zygotes are difficult. To overcome these problems, rice polyspermic zygotes have been successfully produced by electrofusion of an egg cell with two sperm cells, and their developmental profiles have been monitored. The triploid zygotes progress through karyogamy and divide into two‐celled embryos via a typical bipolar mitotic division; the two‐celled embryos further develop into triploid plants, indicating that polyspermic plant zygotes, unlike those of animals, can develop normally. Furthermore, progenies consisting of triparental genetic materials have been successfully obtained in Arabidopsis through the pollination of two different kinds of male parents with a female parent. These different pieces of evidence for development and emergence of polyspermic zygotes in vitro and in planta suggest that polyspermy is a key event in polyploidization and species diversification.
Removing rician bias in diffusional kurtosis of the prostate using real‐data reconstruction
Authors: Goodburn Rosie J. , Barrett Tristan , Patterson Ilse , Gallagher Ferdia A. , Lawrence Edward M. , Gnanapragasam Vincent J. , Kastner Christof , Priest Andrew N.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To compare prostate diffusional kurtosis imaging (DKI) metrics generated using phase‐corrected real data with those generated using magnitude data with and without noise compensation (NC).

Methods

Diffusion‐weighted images were acquired at 3T in 16 prostate cancer patients, measuring 6 b‐values (0‐1500 s/mm2), each acquired with 6 signal averages along 3 diffusion directions, with noise‐only images acquired to allow NC. In addition to conventional magnitude averaging, phase‐corrected real data were averaged in an attempt to reduce rician noise‐bias, with a range of phase‐correction low‐pass filter (LPF) sizes (8‐128 pixels) tested. Each method was also tested using simulations. Pixelwise maps of apparent diffusion (D) and apparent kurtosis (K) were calculated for magnitude data with and without NC and phase‐corrected real data. Average values were compared in tumor, normal transition zone (NTZ), and normal peripheral zone (NPZ).

Results

Simulations indicated LPF size can strongly affect K metrics, where 64‐pixel LPFs produced accurate metrics. Relative to metrics estimated from magnitude data without NC, median NC K were lower (P < 0.0001) by 6/11/8% in tumor/NPZ/NTZ, 64‐LPF real‐data K were lower (P < 0.0001) by 4/10/7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Compared with magnitude data with NC, phase‐corrected real data can produce similar K, although the choice of phase‐correction LPF should be chosen carefully.
Factors affecting the response rate of frequency volume chart: A prospective nonrandomized controlled study
Authors: Oh Cheol Kyu , Park Myungchan , Chung Jae‐Seung , Park Sang Hyun , Kim Seong Cheol
Published: November 2019

Aims

To evaluate if compliance with frequency volume charts can be improved if a physician explains its importance and to identify factors affecting compliance and accurate responses to frequency volume chart (FVC).

Methods

We identified patients ≥18 years of age with voiding dysfunction reported from July 2013 to February 2014. Patients were explained the importance of frequency volume charts by a doctor and then a nurse explained how to fill it (group A). Others were only explained how to fill it (group B).

Results

A total of 137 patients were enrolled. The response rate to frequency volume charts was higher in group A than in group B (94.3% vs 82.9%, P = .038). Patients ≥70 years of age, without a private health insurance, with high school education or higher, and without past medical history had a higher response rate in group A than in group B. In the multivariate binary logistic regression analysis, group A (odds ratio [OR], 4.87; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.04‐22.89; P = .045) and QoL (OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.16‐4.46; P = .017) were factors associated with the response rate. In addition, group A (OR, 3.46; 95% CI, 1.03‐11.70; P = .045) and being 60's years old (vs 50's years, OR, 7.01; 95% CI, 1.36‐36.23; P = .020) were related to FVC complete response rate.

Conclusions

Frequency volume chart compliance can be improved if physicians explain its importance for lower urinary tract symptoms diagnosis and management. The explanation and severe lower urinary tract symptoms are factors affecting compliance and the explanation and being 60's years old are related to accurate response.
Dynamic pricing and matching in ride‐hailing platforms
Authors: Yan Chiwei , Zhu Helin , Korolko Nikita , Woodard Dawn
Published: November 2019

Ride‐hailing platforms such as Uber, Lyft, and DiDi have achieved explosive growth and reshaped urban transportation. The theory and technologies behind these platforms have become one of the most active research topics in the fields of economics, operations research, computer science, and transportation engineering. In particular, advanced matching and dynamic pricing (DP) algorithms—the two key levers in ride‐hailing—have received tremendous attention from the research community and are continuously being designed and implemented at industrial scales by ride‐hailing platforms. We provide a review of matching and DP techniques in ride‐hailing, and show that they are critical for providing an experience with low waiting time for both riders and drivers. Then we link the two levers together by studying a pool‐matching mechanism called dynamic waiting (DW) that varies rider waiting and walking before dispatch, which is inspired by a recent carpooling product Express Pool from Uber. We show using data from Uber that by jointly optimizing DP and DW, price variability can be mitigated, while increasing capacity utilization, trip throughput, and welfare. We also highlight several key practical challenges and directions of future research from a practitioner's perspective.