bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detecting multi‐scale riverine topographic variability and its influence on Chinook salmon habitat selection
Authors: Duffin Jenna , Carmichael Richard A. , Yager Elowyn M. , Benjankar Rohan , Tonina Daniele
Published: January 2021

Quantifying geomorphic conditions that impact riverine ecosystems is critical in river management due to degraded riverine habitat, changing flow and thermal conditions, and increasing anthropogenic pressure. Geomorphic complexity at different scales directly impacts habitat heterogeneity and affects aquatic biodiversity resilience. Here we showed that the combination of continuous spatial survey at high resolution, topobathymetric light detection and ranging (LiDAR), and continuous wavelet analysis can help identify and characterize that complexity. We used a continuous wavelet analysis on 1‐m resolution topobathymetry in three rivers in the Salmon River Basin, Idaho (USA), to identify different scales of topographic variability and the potential effects of this variability on salmonid redd site selection. On each river, wavelet scales characterized the topographic variability by portraying repeating patterns in the longitudinal profile. We found three major representative spatial wavelet scales of topographic variability in each river: a small wavelet scale associated with local morphology such as pools and riffles, a mid‐wavelet scale that identified larger channel unit features, and a large wavelet scale related to valley‐scale controls. The small wavelet scale was used to identify pools and riffles along the entire lengths of each river as well as areas with differing riffle‐pool development. Areas along the rivers with high local topographic variability (high wavelet power) at all wavelet scales contained the largest features (i.e., deepest or longest pools) in the systems. By comparing the wavelet power for each wavelet scale to Chinook salmon redd locations, we found that higher small‐scale wavelet power, which is related to pool‐riffle topography, is important for redd site selection. The continuous wavelet methodology objectively identified scales of topographic variability present in these rivers, performed efficient channel‐unit identification, and provided geomorphic assessment without laborious field surveys.
Deciphering urban consumer requirements for rice quality gives insights for driving the future acceptability of local rice in Africa: Case study in the city of Saint‐Louis in senegal
Authors: Mané Ibrahima , Bassama Joseph , Ndong Moussa , Mestres Christian , Diedhiou Papa Madiallacké , Fliedel Geneviève
Published: January 2021

Rice is the staple cereal in Senegal. Despite the many policies implemented over the last decade, Senegalese consumers still prefer imported over local rice. To understand this preference, this study compares consumer acceptability of three local rice samples versus two imported rice samples. Two focus groups and a consumer test with 120 women were carried out in the city of Saint‐Louis in Senegal. The results concerning consumption habits showed that about 85% of the surveyed women consume rice at least once a day (at lunch). The hedonic test showed that consumers appreciated all five rice samples, but the most liked samples were obtained from industrial processing of either local or imported whole and fragrant rice. The least liked sample was a local semi‐industrial rice, including 50% broken grains. The results of the just‐about‐right (JAR) test and check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) test showed that the sensory descriptors such as white color, well‐cooked, and homogeneous grain size had an influence on the consumers’ choice of rice samples. However, the most important selection criteria were the homogeneous size of the rice grains, the absence of impurities, both of which are directly linked to the milling conditions, and fragrance, which is related to the variety. The origin of the rice samples did not influence the consumers’ choice. This study showed that local rice can compete with imported rice if processing is improved in some small‐scale rice mills.
Probing the impact of conventional oil frying on the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in rabbit meat
Authors: Siddique Rabia , Fawad Zahoor Ameer , Ahmad Hamad , Maqbool Zahid Faisal , Abid Muhammad , Siddeeg Azhari
Published: January 2021

The study estimates, for the first time, the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) concentration (pyrene, fluoranthene, phenanthrene, anthracene, fluorene, and naphthalene) in rabbit meat samples. The study explores the effect of frying and the influence of cooking recipe (with or without condiments/additives) on different parts (hind legs, forelegs, and back), on PAH generation. A total of 36 meat samples on different parts from uncooked, cooked, chapli, and seekh kebabs were prepared and characterized by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). PAHs data in all the samples indicate that cooking recipes (with and without additives/condiments) greatly affected the PAHs concentration. Significant concentrations of phenanthrene, fluoranthene, and naphthalene were formed in all the samples after cooking (frying) but naphthalene was dominant in terms of its concentration formed. A higher concentration of naphthalene was detected in the foreleg (4.56 µg/g) as well as in the hind leg (4.08 µg/g) seekh kebab (with additives), while foreleg chapli kebab (with additives) contained 1.44 µg/g PAH concentration. Frying is the processing methodology that causes the highest impact on PAHs. Contents of anthracene were detected only in the back (raw sample and chapli kebab), foreleg (without additives and seekh kebab), and hind leg (seekh kebab). In all rabbit meat samples, fluorene and pyrene were not identified.
Next Generation Therapeutic Strateg‐Es: Evolving cancer immunotherapy through agents that Engage, Expand and Enable the anti‐tumor immune response
Authors: Wolfson Benjamin , Hodge James W.
Published: January 2021

The development and FDA approval of immune checkpoint blocking antibodies have brought new light to cancer immunotherapy. While immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has demonstrated clinical benefit in certain tumors as monotherapy, effective therapy of established tumors necessitates a combination of multiple immuno‐oncology agents targeting diverse functions of the immune system. These combination strategies should be tactically designed to Engage the immune system by inducing a tumor‐antigen specific T‐cell population, Expand the number of antigen‐specific cytotoxic T cells and increase their migration to the tumor microenvironment, and once there, Enable prolonged and persistent effector function. Although viral therapeutic cancer vaccines have demonstrated little efficacy as monotherapies, they have substantial potential to Engage the immune system as one branch of a multipronged treatment strategy. This review will summarize prior and ongoing Phase II and III clinical trials built upon the foundation of viral therapeutic cancer vaccines. We examine their efficacy as a monotherapy, and more importantly, when combined with additional agents that Expand and Enable the immune system. It is clear that the future of cancer immunotherapy will include evolving treatment strategies made up of multiple agents, and we are optimistic that in this context viral therapeutic cancer vaccines will emerge as an important part of next generation effective therapeutic strategies.
The PI3K/Akt/mTORC signaling axis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Possibilities for therapeutic interventions either as single agents or in combination with conventional therapies
Authors: Akbari Dilmaghani Nader , Safaroghli‐Azar Ava , Pourbagheri‐Sigaroodi Atieh , Bashash Davood
Published: January 2021

The latest advances in the sequencing methods in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissues have revolutionized our understanding of the disease by taking off the veil from the most frequent genetic alterations in the components of the oncogenic pathways. Among all the identified alterations, aberrancies in the genes attributed to the phosphoinositide 3‐kinases (PI3K) axis have attracted special attention as they were altered in more than 90% of the tissues isolated from HNSCC patients. In fact, the association between these aberrancies and the increased risk of cancer metastasis suggested this axis as an “Achilles Heel” of HNSCC, which may be therapeutically targeted. The results of the clinical trials investigating the therapeutic potential of the inhibitors targeting the components of the PI3K axis in the treatment of HNSCC patients, either alone or in a combined‐modal strategy, opened a new chapter in the treatment strategy of this malignancy. The present study aimed to review the importance of the PI3K axis in the pathogenesis of HNSCC and also provide a piece of information about the breakthroughs and challenges of PI3K inhibitors in the therapeutic strategies of the disease.
Cardiac involvement in consecutive elite athletes recovered from Covid‐19: A magnetic resonance study
Authors: Małek Łukasz A. , Marczak Magdalena , Miłosz‐Wieczorek Barbara , Konopka Marcin , Braksator Wojciech , Drygas Wojciech , Krzywański Jarosław
Published: January 2021

Magnetic resonance (MR) studies suggested cardiac involvement post‐Covid‐19 in a significant subset of affected individuals, including athletes. This brings serious clinical concerns regarding the potential need for in‐depth cardiac screening in athletes after Covid‐19 before return to play. The aim of this study was to gain further insight into the relation between Covid‐19 and cardiac involvement in professional athletes. This was a retrospective cohort study, in which 26 consecutive elite athletes (national team, Olympians, top national league players; median age 24 years, interquartile range [IQR] 21–27, 81% female) were included. At 1.5 T including balanced steady‐state free precession cine imaging, T1 and T2‐mapping using Myomaps software (Siemens), dark‐blood T2‐weighted images with fat suppression, and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) with phase‐sensitive inversion recovery sequence were used. The athletes had mainly asymptomatic or mild course of the disease (77%). They were scanned after a median of 32 days (IQR 22–62 days) from the diagnosis. MR data were reviewed by three independent observers, each with >10 years cardiac MR experience. Native T1, T2, extracellular volume, and T2 signal intensity ratio were calculated. Diagnosis of acute myocarditis was based on modified Lake Louise criteria. Statistical analyses used were Pearson correlation and Bland–Altman repeatability analysis. At the time of MR the athletes had no pathologic electrocardiogram abnormalities or elevated troponin levels. MR did not reveal any case of acute myocarditis. Cardiac abnormalities were found in five (19%) athletes, including four athletes presenting borderline signs of isolated myocardial edema and one athlete showing nonischemic LGE with pleural and pericardial effusion. Another athlete had signs of persistent lung congestion without cardiac involvement. We have shown that in a small group of elite athletes with mainly asymptomatic to mild Covid‐19, lack of electrocardiographic changes, and normal troponin concentration 1–2 months after the diagnosis, there were no signs of acute myocarditis, but 19% of athletes had some abnormalities as assessed by cardiac MR.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

3
Seroprevalence of human herpesvirus 8 in Ireland among blood donors, men who have sex with men, and heterosexual genitourinary medicine and infectious diseases clinic attendees
Authors: O'Rourke Sadhbh , O'Flaherty Niamh , Coyne Dermot , Lynam Almida , Clarke Susan , O'Dea Siobhán , Fitzpatrick Sarah , Connell Jeff , Crowley Brendan
Published: January 2021

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV‐8) seroprevalence varies geographically and between subpopulations. High seroprevalence rates have been ascribed to men who have sex with men (MSM), African migrants, and HIV‐infected individuals. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of HHV‐8 in an Irish population, including specific risk groups. A cross‐sectional study of 200 blood donors and 200 genitourinary medicine (GUM) and infectious diseases (ID) clinic patients was performed, with testing for Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to HHV‐8 lytic antigens using a commercial indirect fluorescence assay (Scimedx Corp.). Verification was performed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). All 200 blood donor samples were negative for HHV‐8 IgG antibodies. 21% of GUM and ID patients were positive for HHV‐8 IgG antibodies. One hundred of these patients were MSM, 35% of whom were HHV‐8 seropositive (46% of HIV‐positive MSM and 24% of HIV‐negative MSM). Of 100 heterosexual patients, only 7% were HHV‐8 seropositive. The absence of seropositivity in 200 Irish blood donors may suggest that Ireland has a low overall population HHV‐8 seroprevalence. The proportion of HHV‐8 seropositivity in the MSM population was significantly higher than in the heterosexual population and most marked in HIV‐positive MSM.
Targeting SARS‐CoV‐2 viral proteases as a therapeutic strategy to treat COVID‐19
Authors: Anirudhan Varada , Lee Hyun , Cheng Han , Cooper Laura , Rong Lijun
Published: January 2021

The 21st century has witnessed three outbreaks of coronavirus (CoVs) infections caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)‐CoV, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)‐CoV, and SARS‐CoV‐2. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by SARS‐CoV‐2, spreads rapidly and since the discovery of the first COVID‐19 infection in December 2019, has caused 1.2 million deaths worldwide and 226,777 deaths in the United States alone. The high amino acid similarity between SARS‐CoV and SARS‐CoV‐2 viral proteins supports testing therapeutic molecules that were designed to treat SARS infections during the 2003 epidemic. In this review, we provide information on possible COVID‐19 treatment strategies that act via inhibition of the two essential proteins of the virus, 3C‐like protease (3CLpro) or papain‐like protease (PLpro).
Epidemiology of cytomegalovirus Infection among mothers and infants in Colombia
Authors: Rico Angelica , Dollard Sheila C. , Valencia Diana , Corchuelo Sheryll , Tong Van T. , Laiton‐Donato Katherine , Amin Minal M. , Benavides Monica , Wong Phili , Newton Suzanne , Daza Marcela , Cates Jordan , Gonzalez Maritza , Zambrano Laura D. , Mercado Marcela M. , Ailes Elizabeth C. , Rodriguez Helena M. , Gilboa Suzanne M. , Acosta Jacqueline , Ricaldi Jessica , Pelaez Dioselina , Honein Margaret A. , Ospina Martha L. , Lanzieri Tatiana M.
Published: January 2021

We assessed maternal and infant cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in Colombia. Maternal serum was tested for CMV immunoglobulin G antibodies at a median of 10 (interquartile range: 8–12) weeks gestation (n = 1501). CMV DNA polymerase chain reaction was performed on infant urine to diagnose congenital (≤21 days of life) and postnatal (>21 days) infection. Maternal CMV seroprevalence was 98.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 97.5%–98.8%). Congenital CMV prevalence was 8.4 (95% CI: 3.9%–18.3%; 6/711) per 1000 live births. Among 472 infants without confirmed congenital CMV infection subsequently tested at age 6 months, 258 (54.7%, 95% CI: 50.2%–59.1%) had postnatal infection.
Spatial and temporal characteristics of abrupt heavy rainfall events over Southwest China during 1981–2017
Authors: Chen Yangruixue , Wang Xiaofang , Huang Ling , Luo Yali
Published: January 2021

The spatial and temporal characteristics of abrupt heavy rainfall events (AHRE: defined as 3‐hr rainfall amount ≥50 mm and at least one 1‐hr rainfall amount ≥20 mm during the 3 hr) over southwest China (SWC) between 1981 and 2017, including their occurrence frequency, intensity, and duration, were investigated based on hourly rainfall data collected from 468 rain gauge stations. The occurrence frequency of these AHREs exhibited large spatial variability among different regions. We distinguished three regions with high occurrence rates of AHREs: the Sichuan Basin (subregion A, SR‐A), South Guizhou–North Guangxi (subregion B, SR‐B), and West Hunan (subregion C, SR‐C). Overall, the amount of rainfall generated by the AHREs was more closely related to event duration than event intensity. Analysis of the monthly variations showed that the frequency of AHREs over SWC mostly (ca., 86.8%) appeared in the warm season (May–August) and peaked in July. But the peak month exhibited distinct regional features, with it occurring in midsummer over SR‐A, late spring or early summer over SR‐B, and early summer over SR‐C. With regards to diurnal variations, AHREs over areas with higher (lower) topography were initiated mostly in the afternoon (around midnight). In addition, short‐duration (1–3 hr) AHREs began most frequently in the late afternoon, whereas the long‐duration events (>6 hr) tended to begin around midnight. Composite analysis of the anomalies of moisture, equivalent potential temperature, and wind during extreme AHRE days revealed that AHRE occurrence coincided with an abnormal low‐level cyclonic circulation, which enhanced wind convergence and the transport of moist and warm air, providing favourable thermodynamic conditions for AHRE formation. These results advance our understanding of rainfall characteristics over SWC and provide observation‐based metrics for the evaluation of numerical simulations.
Efficient biorefinery of whole cassava for citrate production using Aspergillus niger mutated by atmospheric and room temperature plasma and enhanced co‐saccharification strategy
Authors: Wang Baoshi , Tan Fengling , Yu Feifei , Li Hua , Zhang Mingxia
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

The non‐grain crop cassava has attracted intense attention in the biorefinery process. However, efficient biorefinery of whole cassava is faced with some challenges due to the existence of strain inhibition and refractory cellulose during the citrate production process.

RESULTS

Here, a novel breeding method – atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) – was applied for strain improvement of citrate‐producing strain Aspergillus niger from whole cassava. The citrate yield of the mutant obtained using ARTP mutagenesis increased by 36.5% in comparison with the original strain. Moreover, citric acid fermentation was further improved on the basis of an enhanced co‐saccharification strategy by supplementing glucoamylase and cellulase. The fermentation efficiency increased by 35.8% with a 17.0 g L−1 reduction in residual sugar on a pilot scale.

CONCLUSIONS

All these results confirmed that a combination of the novel breeding method and enhanced co‐saccharification strategy could be used to efficiently refine whole cassava. The results also provide inspiration for the production of value‐added products and waste disposal in agro‐based industries. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of the difference between aged and degenerated pit mud microbiome in fermentation cellars for Chinese Luzhou‐flavor baijiu by metatranscriptomics
Authors: Zhou Wen , Liao Zuomin , Wu Zhengyun , Suyama Taikei , Zhang Wenxue
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUD

Chinese Luzhou‐flavor baijiu (LFB) was fermented in an underground cellar, and the bottom and side of the cellar were covered with pit muds (PMs), where the metabolic activity of the microorganisms had a significant effect on the LFB quality. PMs can be divided into aged pit mud (AP) and degenerated pit mud (DP), thus, the qualities of LFB generated from AP and DP were different. In this essay, metatranscriptomics method was applied to illustrate the differences of the two PMs, as well as to search out the pivotal microorganisms and genes influencing the quality of LFB.

RESULTS

Archaea, Clostridium and some thermophilic microorganisms might bring significant effect in AP, while the active eukaryota and Anaeromyxobacter would cause degeneration in PM. Also, the metabolism of carbohydrate and amino acid were more active in AP. What is more, carbohydrate, amino acid and their derivant can produce important organic acids via the activity of the microorganisms in PMs. There were eight critical enzymes noticed in the organic acids metabolic pathway, which were more actively expressed in AP, demonstrating active expression of the critical genes related to organic acid metabolism could have a positive effect on LFB quality.

CONCLUSION

This study identified specific differences in active microorganisms, active expressed genes and the expression levels of key genes in vital metabolic pathway between AP and DP. Which may be the actual reason for the differences in the quality of LFB made from different PMs. Mastering these results will provide assistance to improve the quality of LFB. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Combined effects of cations in fertilizer solution on antioxidant content in red lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Sawatdee Sopanat , Prommuak Chattip , Jarunglumlert Teeraya , Pavasant Prasert , Flood Adrian E
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Red lettuce is consumed worldwide because it is a great source of natural antioxidants. To design a fertilizer formula to boost its nutritional value, this research simultaneously studied the effects of significant cations among the macronutrients for plant growth (K, Mg and Ca) and the effects of the electrical conductivity (EC) of the nutrient solution on phenolic compound production and mass productivity of hydroponically grown red lettuce.

RESULTS

Red lettuce grown under the control treatment provided the highest mass productivity (under low‐stress conditions). The highest antioxidant content, measured as milligrams of phenolic compounds per gram dry weight (at a high‐stress condition) via both Folin–Ciocalteu and HPLC analyses, was observed in growth media containing 100 ppmK : 20 ppm Mg : 70 ppm Ca (with EC equal to 1241 μS cm−1). It was found that EC within the range of this examination had no significant effect on the mass productivity or on phenolic compound productivity. The phenolic compound productivity, defined as the amount of phenolic compounds produced per unit of planting area per unit of time, was optimized with the optimum formula for maximum phenolic compound productivity of 90 ppm K : 29 ppm Mg : 77 ppm Ca, or a corresponding EC of 1307 μS cm−1.

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrates that health‐promoting nutrient production in red lettuce could be stimulated in a practical manner by adjusting the cation concentrations in fertilizer solution. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Lumped kinetic simulation of hydrodenitrogenation for full‐range middle‐low temperature coal tar
Authors: Zhu Yonghong , Dan Yong , Du Chongpeng , Tian Feng , Liu Yaqing , Sun Zhihui , Fan Xiaoyong , Li Dong
Published: January 2021

With the increasingly prominent environmental problems and depletion of light petrochemical resources, the clean utilization of heavy oil has become the research focal area. The hydrodenitrogenation (HDN) experiments and kinetics of full‐range middle‐low temperature coal tar (MLCT) was studied on a fixed‐bed reactor with a Ni‐Mo/γ‐Al2O3 catalyst. Two kinds of three‐lumped kinetic models (K1 and K1.24) based on different reaction orders and high‐middle‐low reactivities were established and fitted by a simulated annealing algorithm for coal tar HDN reactions. The results presented good correspondence with experimental data following an average relative error of less than 0.3%. The effect of temperature, pressure, and liquid hourly space velocity (LHSV) on HDN of different reactivity nitrogen compounds (NCs) of MLCT was studied using the lumped kinetic models. Also, the difference between K1 and K1.24 models on the embodiment ability for HDN laws was also discussed from multiple perspectives. It has been observed that the HDN reactions of low and middle reactivity NCs are more influenced by LHSV; high temperature and pressure are more critical for the removal of low reactivity NCs, and low‐temperature or ‐pressure zone have larger effects on coal tar HDN reactions, especially at high LHSV; temperature has much more influence than pressure on the HDN effect, particularly towards the low reactivity NCs. The results of HDN laws for high reactivity NCs are concordant with K1 and K1.24 models. The K1.24 model is a bit more reasonable to reveal the HDN law of middle to low reactivity NCs.
The relationship between the Internet of Things and knowledge management in smart ecosystem development
Authors: Ikeda Erika Kajiyama , da Silva Luciano Ferreira , Penha Renato , de Oliveira Paulo Sergio Gonçalves
Published: January 2021

Creating an environment capable of responding to its users and organizations in real‐time is a challenging task. However, with the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, a new perspective about creating an intelligent and interconnected world has become a reality. The goal of the present study aims to explore the relationship between IoT and Knowledge Management (KM) when generating a Smart environment. Herein, we conducted a Systematic Literature Review and present a discussion about the evolution of the IoT concept and the IoT ecosystem. More specifically we focused on the main IoT elements that serve as the foundation of the IoT ecosystem and the relationship between the IoT and KM. Although there is a lack of studies about KM supporting the IoT, our study provides evidence that the IoT is composed of a set of technologies that enable KM and KM processes can facilitate the development of IoT Smart environments. Thus, there is an opportunity to study how to generate more intelligence and connectivity, which will support the players of the ecosystem, promote interactions among objects and people and ultimately add value to organizations and users.
Mathematical Modeling of Free Radical Solution Terpolymerization Reactions in a Batch and Continuous Flow Stirred Tank Reactors
Authors: Luciani Carla V. , Choi Kyu Yong
Published: January 2021

A mathematical model that describes a free radical solution terpolymerization is applied to styrene (St), methyl methacrylate (MMA), and maleic anhydride (MAh) polymerization system. This terpolymerization model allows for the use of either monofunctional or bifunctional peroxide initiators, and it is applied to batch and continuous reactions. The key model outputs are global monomer conversion, terpolymer composition, terpolymer average molecular weights, and terpolymer monomer sequence distributions. A few kinetic parameters are estimated such that global conversion is properly predicted by the model including initiator efficiency and two termination rate constants. Molecular weights are shown to be dominated by chain transfer reactions. Experimental trends of conversion, terpolymer molar masses (molecular weights), and composition are reasonably well predicted by the model.
Direct targeting of β‐catenin in the Wnt signaling pathway: Current progress and perspectives
Authors: Wang Zhen , Li Zilu , Ji Haitao
Published: January 2021

Aberrant activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling circuit is associated with cancer recurrence and relapse, cancer invasion and metastasis, and cancer immune evasion. Direct targeting of β‐catenin, the central hub in this signaling pathway, is a promising strategy to suppress the hyperactive β‐catenin signaling but has proven to be highly challenging. Substantial efforts have been made to discover compounds that bind with β‐catenin, block β‐catenin‐mediated protein–protein interactions, and suppress β‐catenin signaling. Herein, we characterize potential small‐molecule binding sites in β‐catenin, summarize bioactive small molecules that directly target β‐catenin, and review structure‐based inhibitor optimization, structure–activity relationship, and biological activities of reported inhibitors. This knowledge will benefit future inhibitor development and β‐catenin‐related drug discovery.
Analysis of blood liquor model via nonlocal and singular constant proportional Caputo hybrid differential operator
Authors: Siddique Imran , Akgül Ali
Published: January 2021

In this study, a physical scheme called the blood liquor absorption model has been examined in its fractional (non‐integer) edict form. The constant proportional Caputo (CPC) hybrid fractional operator with singular and nonlocal kernel has been used to fractionalize the blood alcohol model. The logical solutions of the absorptions of liquor in stomach S(t) and the absorptions of liquor in the blood B(t) have been explored by using the Laplace transform technique and are stated in the forms of the generalized G‐functions Ga, b, c(·) and the bivariate Mittage–Leffler functions. Further, we present a detailed analysis including numerical explanation and stability analysis.
Nanoconfined water governs polarization‐related properties of self‐assembled peptide nanotubes
Authors: Salehli Ferid , Aydin Abuzer O. , Chovan Drahomir , Kopyl Svitlana , Bystrov Vladimir , Thompson Damien , Tofail Syed A.M. , Kholkin Andrei
Published: January 2021

Diphenylalanine (FF) demonstrates a robust ability to self‐assemble at the nanoscale forming a variety of structures ranging from nanospheres to nano‐ and microtubes resulting in outstanding functional properties including pyro‐ and piezoelectricity. FF nanotubes mimic the structure of β‐amyloid fibrils characteristic of Alzheimer's disease and thus can serve as a model material in biology and medicine. In this work, we report experimental proof that water trapped inside nanotubes exhibits dielectric properties similar to that of bulk water despite being confined in an ∼1 nm internal cavity. FF peptides thus provide a suitable template for the stabilization of the tetrahedral configuration of bulk water. Several phase transitions were observed via broadband dielectric spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. Of these, two glass transitions at 205 K and 133 K related to different phases of water were found. The presence of α‐relaxation in the so‐called “no man's land” leads to a global glass transition at Tg = 133 K and structural phase transition at 230 K characteristic of tetrahedral water. The characterized collective response of water dipoles to an external electric field renders high pyro‐ and piezoelectric activity and non‐linear optical effects in FF dipeptides, conferring polarization‐dependent functionality to this important class of biomaterials.
Impact of radical prostatectomy on bladder function as demonstrated on urodynamics study—A systematic review
Authors: Yao Henry H. , Hoe Venetia , Crump Robert T. , Sengupta Shomik , O'Connell Helen E. , Carlson Kevin V. , Baverstock Richard J.
Published: January 2021

Aims

This study aims to describe the effects of radical prostatectomy (RP) on bladder function by performing a systematic review of urodynamics study findings before and after RP.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guideline and registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020206844). A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase. Studies were included if they involved men who underwent RP and had urodynamics study performed preoperatively, postoperatively, or both. Studies that included only subgroups of patients based on symptoms were excluded. Three hundred and four articles were screened, with 20 articles included. A qualitative analysis was performed.

Results

The rate of baseline bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) pre‐RP was 19%–67%. All six studies with comparative data pre‐ and postoperatively demonstrated a decrease in the rate of patients with equivocal or clear obstruction. The baseline rates of detrusor overactivity (DO) varied widely from 11% to 61.2%. Six of eight studies with 6 months or more follow‐up showed an improvement in the rates of DO ranging from 3.0% to 12.5%. The rate of de novo DO ranged from 0% to 54.5%. Four studies reported an increased rate of impaired bladder contractility and two of three studies showed a worsening rate of impaired bladder compliance following RP. This review is limited by the absence of level I/II studies.

Conclusions

Urodynamics study shows that BOO is improved following RP in most patients. RP resolves DO in some patients and cause de novo DO in others. The net effect is a reduced overall rate of DO in most studies. Bladder compliance and contractility may be impaired after RP.
Are visual inspection and digital palpation reliable methods to assess ability to perform a pelvic floor muscle contraction? An intra‐rater study
Authors: Pena Caroline C. , Bø Kari , de la Ossa Aura M. P. , Fernandes Ana C. N. L. , Aleixo Devechio N. , de Oliveira Flávia M. F. , Ferreira Cristine H. J.
Published: January 2021

Aims

To investigate the intrarater reliability of visual inspection and digital palpation to classify women's ability to perform a voluntary pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contraction and the association between the two methods.

Methods

This was a test–retest clinical study including 44 women. The ability to perform a PFM voluntary contraction was evaluated two times in all participants using visual inspection and digital palpation. All analyzed participants were assessed with a 7‐day interval between the two assessments and by the same examiner. Kappa's agreement coefficient was used to estimate the intrarater reliability, and Fisher's exact test was used to analyze association between the two methods.

Results

This study found a substantial intrarater reliability of visual inspection (k = 0.73; p < .001) and digital palpation (k = 0.74; p < .001). A significant association between visual inspection and digital palpation was found at both time points (p < .001).

Conclusion

Both visual inspection and digital palpation have substantial intrarater reliability and visual inspection can be recommended when vaginal palpation is not tolerated.
Nonconforming finite element method for coupled Poisson–Nernst–Planck equations
Authors: Shi Xiangyu , Lu Linzhang
Published: January 2021

A nonconforming finite element method (FEM) is developed and investigated for the coupled Poisson–Nernst–Planck (PNP) equations with low order element. Then, by use of the special properties of this element, that is, the interpolation operator is equivalent to its projection operator, and the consistency error estimate can reach order of O(h2) which is one order higher than that of its interpolation error estimates when the exact solution belongs to H3(Ω), the superclose estimates of order O(h2) and O(h2 + τ) in the broken H1‐norm are derived with new techniques for the semidiscrete scheme and backward Euler fully discrete scheme, respectively. Further, through employing interpolation postprocessing approach, the corresponding global superconvergence results are obtained. Finally, some numerical results are provided to confirm the theoretical analysis. It seems that our results have never been found in the existing literature. Here h and τ denote the mesh size and time step, respectively.
Cell‐cycle risk score more accurately determines the risk for metastases and death in prostatectomy patients compared with clinical features alone
Authors: Swanson Gregory P. , Lenz Lauren , Stone Steven , Cohen Todd
Published: January 2021

Background

Prostate cancer treatment aims to prevent metastases and disease‐specific mortality. Pathologic parameters have limited ability to predict these outcomes, but biomarkers can improve risk discrimination. We evaluated the ability of cell‐cycle progression and combined cell‐cycle risk scores to predict metastases and disease‐specific mortality after prostatectomy.

Methods

Eligibility included (1) treatment with radical prostatectomy (1985–1997); (2) cell‐cycle progression score; (3) preoperative prostate‐specific antigen; (4) no neoadjuvant therapy; and (5) clinical follow‐up (N = 360). Cancer of the prostate risk assessment postsurgical score was combined with cell cycle progression into the prespecified combined cell‐cycle risk score. Hazard ratios (HRs) are reported per unit score.

Results

In total, 11% (41/360) developed metastases and 9% (33/360) experienced disease‐specific mortality. Combined cell‐cycle risk score predicted metastases and disease‐specific mortality post‐radical prostatectomy (p < 1 × 10−8). Adjusting for cancer of the prostate risk assessment postsurgical score, the combined cell‐cycle risk score remained a predictor of metastases (HR = 3.03 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.49, 6.20]; p = .003] and disease‐specific mortality (HR = 3.40 [95% CI: 1.52, 7.59]; p = .004). Of patients with biochemical recurrence, 25% (41/163) developed metastases. Cancer of the prostate risk assessment postsurgical score was predictive of metastases postbiochemical recurrence but was improved by the addition of cell cycle progression (HR = 1.70 [95% CI: 1.14, 2.53]; p = .012). The combined cell‐cycle risk was also prognostic of metastases post‐biochemical recurrence (HR = 1.56 [95% CI: 1.20, 2.03]; p = .001).

Conclusion

Combined cell‐cycle risk and cell cycle progression scores predict metastases and disease‐specific mortality post‐radical prostatectomy and should help identify patients at greatest risk of treatment failure who might benefit from earlier intervention.
Model systems for studying extrahepatic pathogenesis of hepatitis E virus. Current knowledge and future directions
Authors: El‐Mokhtar Mohamed A. , Sayed Ibrahim M.
Published: January 2021

Hepatitis E Virus is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis globally. HEV infection is endemic in developing countries. Also, autochthonous and sporadic cases are reported in developed countries. HEV causes acute and chronic infections. Besides, extrahepatic manifestations including neurological, renal, haematological, acute pancreatitis and complications during pregnancy are associated with HEV infections. The pathogenesis of HEV in the extrahepatic tissues is either due to direct cytopathic effect mediated by the virus replication, or immunological mechanisms caused by an uncontrollable host response. Researchers have used different in vivo and in vitro models to study the pathogenesis of HEV in the extrahepatic tissues and analyse the host immune response against HEV infection. This review highlights the extrahepatic disorders associated with HEV infection. We focused on the in vivo and in vitro models as a tool for elucidating the HEV infection beyond the liver and studying the mechanisms of HEV induced tissue damages.
Fault estimation and synchronization control for complex dynamical networks with time‐varying coupling delay
Authors: Sakthivel Rathinasamy , Sakthivel Ramalingam , Kwon Oh‐Min , Kaviarasan Boomipalagan
Published: January 2021

This article is devoted to simultaneously solve the problems of fault estimation and synchronization for a class of delayed coupling complex dynamical networks. First, an intermediate estimator is established for each node with the aid of the relative information from the neighboring nodes. Second, a distributed memory state feedback controller is designed with respect to the estimated state values and fault signals. Third, some error systems are formulated by introducing appropriate linear transformations. Then, a set of delay‐dependent criteria is obtained to ensure that the states of the resulting systems are uniformly bounded and subsequently, the explicit design method of the desired gain matrices is presented. At last, the feasibility of established theoretical results is validated by the support of two numerical examples in which one is an application example based on the aircraft model. Different from the existing fault estimation techniques, the proposed method does not require the observer matching condition and the upper bounds of the fault signals, which reduces the conservatism significantly.
Transcriptional and functional characterization of neonatal circulating Innate Lymphoid Cells
Authors: Bennstein Sabrina Bianca , Scherenschlich Nadine , Weinhold Sandra , Manser Angela Riccarda , Noll Angela , Raba Katharina , Kögler Gesine , Walter Lutz , Uhrberg Markus
Published: January 2021

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), comprising ILC1, 2, and 3 subpopulations, play unique roles in maintaining microbiome homeostasis, mucosal tissue integrity, and control of inflammation. So far, their characterization is dominantly based on tissue-resident ILCs, whereas little information is available on circulating ILCs, in particular in newborns. In order to get a deeper understanding of neonatal innate immunity, we analyzed the transcriptomes and effector functions of cord blood (CB) ILCs. By RNAseq analysis, all ILC subsets could be clearly distinguished from each other. CB-derived ILCs were generally closer related to neonatal T than natural killer (NK) cells and several factors shared by all three ILC subsets such as CD28, CCR4, and SLAMF1 are commonly expressed by T cells but lacking in NK cells. Notably, CB ILCs exhibited a unique signature of DNA binding inhibitor (ID) transcription factors (TF) with high ID3 and low ID2 expression distinct from PB- or tonsil-derived ILCs. In vitro stimulation of sorted CB ILCs revealed distinct differences to tissue-resident ILCs in that ILC1-like and ILC3-like cells were nonresponsive to specific cytokine stimulation, indicating functional immaturity. However, CB ILC3-like cells expressed toll-like receptors TLR1 and TLR2 and upon stimulation with the TLR2:1 ligand Pam3CSK4, responded with significantly increased proliferation and cytokine secretion. Together, our data provide novel insights into neonatal ILC biology with a unique TF signature of CB ILCs possibly indicating a common developmental pathway and furthermore a role of CB ILC3-like cells in innate host defense.
Priorities for science to support national implementation of the sustainable development goals: A review of progress and gaps
Authors: Allen Cameron , Metternicht Graciela , Wiedmann Thomas
Published: January 2021

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) provide a framework of goals, targets, and indicators designed to guide national implementation of sustainable development to 2030. Several aspects of the framework are challenging, including its complex and integrated scope and transformational character. A range of approaches developed in the sustainability sciences can assist countries to address these challenges. In this paper, we evaluate recent scientific literature as well as national practice relating to the use of science‐based approaches to support and enable national SDG implementation. The review encompasses >150 articles from the peer‐reviewed and grey scientific literature, identifying 22 science‐based approaches developed and recommended by experts to support national implementation. We then review and evaluate recent practice and experience of 56 countries in implementing the SDGs and the extent to which these approaches are evident in Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs). Overall, we find some cross‐fertilization in the science‐policy interface of national SDG implementation, particularly in monitoring and evaluation. While scientific methods for evaluating interlinkages between the SDGs and understanding national transformations have advanced considerably in recent years, they are yet to become a feature of the VNRs reviewed. There is evidence that demand for these approaches is increasing, and it will be critical that researchers understand the needs of policy makers and other stakeholders and design tools that provide practical and actionable evidence that assist countries to understand, quantify, and implement the transformations needed to achieve the SDGs over the coming decade.
Roles of Proton in the Formation of Particles: Soap‐free Emulsion Polymerization of Styrene using AIBN and Potassium Persulfate as Initiators
Authors: Xu Xiuhang , Xia Yunfei , Qian Jiajia , Yu Haihua , Zhong Yangyang , Wang Fei , Zhou Chuan , Ni Henmei
Published: January 2021

In this paper, the hydrophobic effect or hydration of hydrophobe was firstly introduced into the mechanism of polystyrene particles formation. Negatively charged surface of hydration shell was proposed due to the ordered structure of water molecules. Consequentially the concentration of hydrophobic chains depended on pH because protons destroyed the hydration shell, thereby extruded hydrophobic chains from the H‐bonds networks. The soap‐free emulsion polymerization of styrene by using AIBN (azodiisobutyronitrile) and KPS (Potassium Persulfate), respectively was performed at various pHs. It was proved that protons played a crucial role on the formation of PSt (polystyrene) particles. By using AIBN, particles were not prepared at pH 2.0 (HAc), pH 4.0 (HCl) and pH 2.0 (HCl), whereas by using KPS, particles were obtained regardless to pH. It indicated that anions of sulfate greatly enhanced the tolerance of hydration shell to the suffering from protons. Meanwhile, the roles of polymerization in the monomer phase, aqueous phase and growing particles were elucidated. By using AIBN, ca. 30 % PSt with Mn (Numeral average molecular weight) =300‐1500 formed in the monomer phase at pH 6.8, which dissolved in water at pH 8.0 and pH 10.0. By using KPS, ca. 20 % and 30 % conversion of St were found in the aqueous phase at pH 2.0 (HCl) and pH 10.0 (NaOH), respectively. At pH 2.0 (HCl), oligomers generated in the aqueous phase were protonated, whereas at pH 10.0 (NaOH), they were soluble due to the seriously suppressed dissociation of water. At other pHs, oligomers captured protons, thereby relieved particles and interface from the suffering of protons. As the concentration of oligomers increased, oligomers precipitated to form clusters due to the increase of average number of protons on the surface of oligomers hydration shell, which successively incorporated into the growing particles, thus enlarged PDI (Polydispersity index) of MW (Weight‐average molecular weight) distribution in particles. By using AIBN, owing to the limited partition of AIBN in the interfacial layer of St phase, the flat‐roof peaks of GPC curves were observed, namely that the weight fraction of Mi was constant. It implies that the free‐radicals are living in the growing particles.
Parietal fibrinous peritonitis in cattle: A literature review
Authors: Djebala Salem , Evrard Julien , Moula Nassim , Gille Linde , Sartelet Arnaud , Bossaert Philippe
Published: January 2021

Background: Parietal fibrinous peritonitis (PFP) is a complication of laparotomy in cattle, consisting of fluid and fibrin accumulation within a fibrous capsule between the parietal peritoneum and the abdominal muscles. Since scientific information on PFP is scarce, we aim to collect available information to help practitioners in its diagnosis and treatment, and to formulate research perspectives.

Methods: PubMed and GoogleScholar databases were scanned using “cattle” or “bovine”, and one of the following keywords: “seroma”, “parietal fibrinous peritonitis”, “retroperitoneal abscess”, or “wound infection”.

Results: Although scientific information is often anecdotal, two recent larger studies shed more light on PFP symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms vary according to the cavity's localisation and size, and include anorexia, weight loss and an inflammatory status. Rectal palpation is strongly indicative, but the definitive diagnosis is made by ultrasound.Trueperella pyogenesandEscherichia coliare frequently isolated germs, although it remains unclear whether they are primary or secondary agents. Good survival rates were reported after surgical drainage.

Conclusion: Although the diagnosis and treatment seem clear, the exact pathogenesis of PFP should be the focus of ongoing research. This can be achieved by epidemiological data analysis focusing on risk factors like surgery technique, housing and ration.