bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benthic foraminifera as proxies of marine influence in the Orosei marine caves, Sardinia, Italy
Authors: Romano Elena , Bergamin Luisa , Di Bella Letizia , Frezza Virgilio , Marassich Andrea , Pierfranceschi Giancarlo , Provenzani Claudio
Published: January 2020

As a result of their location at the boundary between marine and continental domains, marine caves are affected by wide spatial and seasonal environmental changes. Only recently have benthic foraminifera been recognized as reliable indicators for the ecological zonation of these environments.

The present study is focused on two marine caves of the Orosei Gulf, Sardinia, Italy: Bue Marino and Bel Torrente. It investigates the spatial and seasonal variability of benthic foraminiferal assemblages relative to sediment grain size and water parameters (temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen) collected during two campaigns in August 2014 and April 2015. The results from 2014 have been partially published.

Based on a comparison of the results of the two campaigns, the considerable reduction of foraminiferal abundance in Bel Torrente was deduced to occur because of the strong freshwater flows occurring during the rainy season; in Bue Marino, the less severe water flow allowed the identification of both living and dead foraminifera, although strongly reduced in number. These identifications allowed benthic foraminifera to be used to define the ecological zonation.

Entrance, confluence, and transitional ecozones were identified in Bue Marino cave on the basis of species abundance. The second ecozone, not recognized in 2014, was correlated with plant debris at the confluence of the two cave branches. The other two ecozones, which are characterized by the faunal shift from hyaline‐ to agglutinated‐prevalent assemblages, were attributed to the gradient of abiotic parameters detected from the outer to the inner portions of the cave. In both campaigns the same ecozones were recognized in terms of species composition, with exceptions being found to different extents as a result of seasonal variability.

As the distribution of foraminiferal ecozones is conditioned by a decreasing gradient of marine influence, long‐term monitoring may be regarded as a promising tool for future studies on sea‐level change.
Association between maternal occupational exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and rare birth defects of the face and central nervous system
Authors: Santiago‐Colón Albeliz , Rocheleau Carissa M. , Chen I‐Chen , Sanderson Wayne , Waters Martha A. , Lawson Christina C. , Langlois Peter H. , Cragan Janet D. , Reefhuis Jennita ,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: January 2020

Background

Previous studies suggested associations between maternal smoking, a source of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other chemicals, and central nervous system and face birth defects; however, no previous studies have evaluated maternal occupational PAH exposure itself.

Methods

Jobs held in the periconceptional period were retrospectively assigned for occupational PAH exposures. Associations between maternal occupational PAH exposure and selected rare defects of the face (cataracts, microphthalmia, glaucoma, microtia, and choanal atresia) and central nervous system (holoprosencephaly, hydrocephaly, cerebellar hypoplasia, and Dandy‐Walker malformation) were evaluated using data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study, a population‐based case–control study in the United States. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated to estimate associations between each evaluated defect and PAH exposure using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Food and beverage serving, as well as cooks and food preparation occupations, were among the most frequent jobs held by exposed mothers. Cataracts, microtia, microphthalmia, and holoprosencephaly were significantly associated with PAH exposure with evidence of dose–response (P‐values for trend ≤.05). Hydrocephaly was associated with any PAH exposure, but not significant for trend. Sensitivity analyses that reduced possible sources of exposure misclassification tended to strengthen associations.

Conclusions

This is the first population‐based case–control study to evaluate associations between maternal occupational PAH exposures and these rare birth defects of the central nervous system and face.
Investigation of thermoluminescence glow curves in quartz extracted from the Central Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Farouk Shrouk , El‐Azab Huda , Gad Ahmed , El‐Nashar Hassan , El‐Faramawy Nabil
Published: January 2020

The current study investigated the thermoluminescence (TL) properties of milky quartz samples collected from the Central Eastern Desert, Egypt. The crystallinity and the elemental concentrations of the milky quartz samples were examined using X‐ray diffraction and an atomic absorption spectrometer. Samples were irradiated using a gamma source at different doses from 250 mGy up to 2 kGy. For annealing, the samples were heated at 400°C for 1 h, followed by slow cooling. Kinetic analyses for the TL glow curves were performed using new designed TL deconvolution software. The glow curves were composed of six overlapped trapping sites at 428, 468, 498, 545, 586, and 639 K. The samples also displayed a linear dose–response from 0.25 Gy up to 20 Gy and a supralinear response from 20 Gy up to 200 Gy. The samples exhibited very low sensitivity for gamma radiation compared with LiF and the minimum detectable dose was 545 μGy. From its linear nature, it was observed that the sensitivity had changed. This study recommends starting measurements of these milky quartz samples after 4 days to give established measurements.
Shading operators from the Gray: Are novel radiation barriers or changing physician behaviors the best next step?
Authors: Vincent Logan L. , Dean Larry S.
Published: January 2020

Key Points

Lead barriers to reduce operator radiation exposure in the catheterization laboratory are effective.

This study of a novel vertical radiation shield suggests significant reduction in operator radiation exposure when used in addition to standard protection methods.

Although additional barriers may help reduce radiation exposure, further education and training of operators in radiation safety may be as effective and perhaps more effective than additional barriers.
The CatLet score and outcome prediction in acute myocardial infarction for patients undergoing primary percutaneous intervention: A proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Xu Ming‐Xing , Ruddy Terrence D. , Schoenhagen Paul , Bartel Thomas , Di Bartolomeo Roberto , von Kodolitsch Yskert , Escaned Javier , Shen Chengxing , He Yong‐Ming
Published: January 2020

Background

The Coronary Artery Tree description and Lesion EvaluaTion (CatLet) score accommodating the variability in coronary anatomy is a recently developed and comprehensive angiographic scoring system aimed at assisting in risk‐stratification of patients with coronary artery disease. However, a validation of this angiographic scoring system is lacking.

Methods

The CatLet score was calculated retrospectively in 308 consecutively enrolled patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. The primary endpoint, major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events (MACCEs), was stratified according to CatLet tertiles: CatLetlow ≤14 (n = 124), CatLetmid 15–21 (n = 82) and CatLettop ≥22 (n = 102).

Results

The CatLet score alone or after adjusting for a broad spectrum of risk factors, significantly predicted clinical outcomes at a median 4.3‐year follow‐up. Multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (95%CI)/unit higher score were 1.05 (1.04–1.07) for MACCE, 1.06 (1.04–1.07) for cardiac death, and 1.05 (1.04–1.07) for all‐cause death. When compared to the SYNTAX score, improved discrimination and better calibration of this CatLet score resulted in a significantly refined risk stratification. The overall category‐free net reclassification improvement afforded by this CatLet score was as follows: 37.2% (p = .008) for MACCEs, 35.5% (p = .0249) for cardiac death, and 31.8% (p = .0316) for all‐cause death.

Conclusions

The ability to integrate the variability in coronary anatomy into angiographic scoring makes the CatLet score a more specific tool for outcome predictions in AMI. (http://www.chictr.org.cn. Unique identifiers: ChiCTR‐POC‐17013536).
Case report of an exercise training and nutritional intervention plan in a patient with A350P mutation in DES gene
Authors: Monje Camila , Jannas‐Vela Sebastian , Baar Keith , Zbinden‐Foncea Hermann
Published: January 2020

Performing a supplementation intervention with creatine and protein, in conjunction with low‐intensity endurance and resistance exercise is safe and has a positive effect on the quality of life in a patient with desminopathy.
A rare case of a patient with PPP syndrome presenting pancreatic pseudocysts, panniculitis, and symptoms of polyarthritis. A radicular cyst of the upper jaw could be another manifestation of the syndrome
Authors: Konschake Wolfgang , Westphal Thea , Jünger Michael , Arnold Andreas , Lutze Stine
Published: January 2020

In rare cases, pancreatic enzymes can enter the bloodstream and cause fat necrosis in the bone and tissue leading to a disorder called pancreatitis, panniculitis, and polyarthritis syndrome. Clinicians should have this syndrome in mind when treating patients with pancreatitis.
A hidden cause of infertility in hypothyroid patients
Authors: Allam Magdy Mohamed , El‐Zawawy Hanaa Tarek , Barakat Sherine Samir , Ahmed Soha Magdy , Saleh Rasha Noureldin M.
Published: January 2020

Methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mutations could be the cause of infertility in hypothyroid patients. Hence, it is worthy to screen for MTHFR gene mutations in infertile hypothyroid females and their partners if infertility persists after optimizing thyroid function.
Biventricular hypertrabeculations or noncompaction in a 54‐year‐old woman in Sub‐Saharan Africa: A case report
Authors: Jingi Ahmadou Musa , Mfeukeu‐Kuate Liliane , Amougou Sylvie Ndongo , Boombhi Jerome , Hakapoka Herbert , Mintom Pierre , Wawo‐Guela Edvine , Hamadou Ba
Published: January 2020

Ventricular noncompaction or hypertrabeculation is rare and unclassified cardiomyopathy that mostly affects the left ventricle. We report the case of biventricular hypertrabeculation in a 54‐year‐old woman who presented with congestive heart failure de novo associated with arrhythmia in a low‐income setting. We also discussed the therapeutic challenges.
Rational Stepwise Construction of Different Heterometallic–Organic Frameworks (HMOFs) for Highly Efficient CO2 Conversion
Authors: Liu Jiao , Wu Dan , Yang Guo‐Ping , Wu Yunlong , Zhang Shuyu , Jin Jing , Wang Yao‐Yu
Published: January 2020

The coordination preference of different metal ions and ligands have an immense influence on the constructions of functional MOF materials. In this work, two new monometallic complexes, namely [Ag(HL)(bipy)0.5] (1) and {[Tb(L)1.5(H2O)]⋅4 H2O}n (2) (bipy=4,4‐bipyridine), have been synthesized successfully by employing a bifunctional 2‐(imidazol‐1‐yl)terephthalic acid (H2L) ligand. After that, two new different heterometallic–organic frameworks (HMOFs), namely {[TbAg(L)2(H2O)3]⋅H2O}n (3) and [TbAg(L)2(H2O)]n (4), were obtained from complexes 1 and 2 as the precursors based on a rational stepwise construction strategy and the theory of hard and soft acids and bases (HSAB principle), respectively. The HMOFs bearing dual metallic catalytic sites (Tb and Ag) can be used as heterogeneous catalysts without losing performance for the chemical fixation of CO2 with epoxides including the sterically hindered epoxides, demonstrating some of the highest reported catalytic activity values. This work may provide a new synthetic route toward tailoring new HMOFs with excellent catalytic activity.
Borosulfates—Synthesis and Structural Chemistry of Silicate Analogue Compounds
Authors: Bruns Jörn , Höppe Henning A. , Daub Michael , Hillebrecht Harald , Huppertz Hubert
Published: January 2020

Borosulfates are oxoanionic compounds consisting of condensed sulfur‐ and boron‐centered tetrahedra. Hitherto, they were mostly achieved from solvothermal syntheses in SO3‐enriched sulfuric acid, or from reactions with the superacid H[B(HSO4)4]. The crystal structures are very similar to those of the corresponding class of silicates and their substitution variants, especially regarding the typical structural motif of corner‐sharing tetrahedra. However, the borosulfates are supposed to be even more versatile, because (BO3) units might also be part of the anionic network. The following article deals with detailed reports on the different synthesis strategies, the crystal chemistry of borosulfates in comparison to silicates, and their hitherto identified properties.
Ruthenium‐Induced Cyclization of Heteroatom‐Functionalized Alkynes: Progress, Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: Chung Lai‐Hon , Yeung Chi‐Fung , Wong Chun‐Yuen
Published: January 2020

Metal‐induced cyclization of functionalized alkynes represents one of the most general approaches to prepare organic heterocycles. Although RuII centers are well‐established to promote alkyne to vinylidene rearrangements and many RuII‐mediated alkyne cyclizations have been rationalized to be the results of post‐vinylidene transformations, recent discoveries indicate that RuII centers can serve as electrophiles and induce alkyne cyclizations without vinylidene intermediacy. In this Minireview, an overview of the RuII‐induced cyclization of heteroatom‐functionalized alkynes in the last decade is provided, with an emphasis on the discoveries and validations of the unconventional “non‐vinylidene‐involving” pathways.
Nanosensor for Sensitive Detection of the New Psychedelic Drug 25I‐NBOMe
Authors: Garrido Eva , Alfonso María , Díaz de Greñu Borja , Lozano‐Torres Beatriz , Parra Margarita , Gaviña Pablo , Marcos M. Dolores , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Sancenón Félix
Published: January 2020

This work reports the synthesis, characterization, and sensing behavior of a hybrid nanodevice for the detection of the potent abuse drug 25I‐NBOMe. The system is based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles, loaded with a fluorescent dye, functionalized with a serotonin derivative and capped with the 5‐HT2A receptor antibody. In the presence of 25I‐NBOMe the capping antibody is displaced, leading to pore opening and rhodamine B release. This delivery was ascribed to 5‐HT2A receptor antibody detachment from the surface due to its stronger coordination with 25I‐NBOMe present in the solution. The prepared nanodevice allowed the sensitive (limit of detection of 0.6 μm) and selective recognition of the 25I‐NBOMe drug (cocaine, heroin, mescaline, lysergic acid diethylamide, MDMA, and morphine were unable to induce pore opening and rhodamine B release). This nanodevice acts as a highly sensitive and selective fluorometric probe for the 25I‐NBOMe illicit drug in artificial saliva and in sweets.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Production of Oxymethylene Dimethylether
Authors: Gierlich Christian Henning , Beydoun Kassem , Klankermayer Jürgen , Palkovits Regina
Published: January 2020

To reduce the NOx and soot emissions of conventional diesel fuels, different renewable alternatives are investigated. One example are oxymethylene ethers (OMEx) of different chain lengths, which are intended to be used as diesel blends. Especially OME3–5 show properties comparable to diesel. The key to producing longer chain OMEs is OME1 as feedstock, which can react with formaldehyde to afford larger molecules. This article reviews different synthesis routes for OME1, in order to elucidate energy‐efficient methods.
Grouping multi‐rate sampling fault detection method for penicillin fermentation process
Authors: Li Keqin , Feng Jian
Published: January 2020

For the multi‐rate sampling problem of the penicillin fermentation process, some traditional methods cannot be solved due to the different lengths of samples. To solve this problem, a grouping multi‐rate sampling fault detection method is proposed. The training sample set is divided into multiple groups according to different sampling rates of variables. Each group has the same sample length. We use the principle component analysis and k‐nearest neighbour methods to build model for every group. Then the models of all groups are combined to determine the control limit. The PenSim2.0 software is used to generate a sample set of the penicillin fermentation process that contained multiple variables at different sampling rates. The simulation result shows the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Clustering of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma is associated with increased levels of the environmental toxins benzene and trichloroethylene in the state of Georgia
Authors: Clough Lindsay , Bayakly A. Rana , Ward Kevin C. , Khan Mohammad K. , Chen Suephy C. , Lechowicz Mary Jo , Flowers Christopher R. , Allen Pamela B. , Switchenko Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2020

Background

Cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a rare form of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma arising in the skin. Geographic clustering of CTCL has recently been reported, but its association with environmental factors is unknown. Benzene and trichloroethylene (TCE) are environmental toxins with carcinogenic properties. The authors investigated associations between geographic clustering of CTCL incidence in the state of Georgia with benzene and TCE exposure.

Methods

The statewide county‐level incidence of CTCL within Georgia was obtained from the Georgia Cancer Registry for the years 1999 to 2015. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated by dividing observed cases by expected cases using national incidence rates by age, sex, and race. Clustering of CTCL was analyzed using spatial analyses. County‐level concentrations of benzene and TCE between 1996 and 2014 were collected from the Environmental Protection Agency's National Air Toxics Assessment database. Linear regression analyses on CTCL incidence were performed comparing SIRs with levels of benzene and TCE by county.

Results

There was significant geographic clustering of CTCL in Georgia, particularly around Atlanta, which was correlated with an increased concentration of benzene and TCE exposure. Among the 4 most populous counties in Georgia, CTCL incidence was between 1.2 and 1.9 times higher than the state average, and benzene and TCE levels were between 2.9 and 8.8 times higher.

Conclusions

The current results demonstrate nonrandom geographic clustering of CTCL incidence in Georgia. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first analysis to identify a correlation between geographic clustering of CTCL and environmental toxic exposures.
Quantitative trait loci sequencing–derived molecular markers for selection of stem rot resistance in peanut
Authors: Cui Renjie , Clevenger Josh , Chu Ye , Brenneman Timothy , Isleib Thomas G. , Holbrook C. Corley , Ozias‐Akins Peggy
Published: January 2020

Developing markers linked to key traits has been a focus of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genomics in the postgenome era. Multiple disease resistance traits have been found to be qualitative and controlled by major quantitative trait loci (QTL) or even single genes while others are more complex. Southern stem rot (stem rot in short) is a devastating disease of peanut caused by the fungus Sclerotium rolfsii. It has been one of the most damaging diseases of peanut with regard to both cost of control and yield loss in the southeastern United States for the last decade. The disease is initiated annually from sclerotia in the soil. The nonuniform distribution of these propagules leads to the nonuniform development of disease, which makes phenotyping and genetic mapping of resistance difficult. Here we report the mapping of two QTL regions controlling stem rot resistance in peanut. Using careful field evaluation, resistant and susceptible bulks were identified from a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population and subjected to QTL sequencing (QTL‐seq). Developed SNP markers linked to the QTL were validated in a blind selection test by selecting only with markers in a part of the population not used for initial analysis. The lines selected for bulk sequencing also were shown to have strong separation for resistance in an independent field experiment. This work not only delivers markers for marker‐assisted selection (MAS) for an important disease in peanut but shows that QTL‐seq can work effectively even when considering highly complex, and quantitative traits.
Recent Advances of Two‐Dimensional Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Huang Tingting , Jiang Yuan , Shen Guozhen , Chen Di
Published: January 2020

Two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have drawn a wide range of research interests because of their unique ultrathin layered structures and attractive properties. In particular, the electrochemical properties and great variety of 2D nanomaterials make them highly attractive candidates for electrochemical capacitors, such as supercapacitors, lithium‐ion capacitors, and sodium‐ion capacitors. Herein, a comprehensive review of recent progress towards the application of 2D nanomaterials for electrochemical capacitors is provided. Several typical types of 2D nanomaterials are first briefly introduced, followed by detailed descriptions of their electrochemical capacitor applications. Finally, research perspectives and future research directions of these interesting areas are also provided.
Selected pharmacotherapy agents as antiproliferative and anti‐inflammatory compounds
Authors: AlKhalil Mthanna , Al‐Hiari Yusuf , Kasabri Violet , Arabiyat Shereen , Al‐Zweiri Muhammad , Mamdooh Noor , Telfah Ahmad
Published: January 2020

The repurposing of safe therapeutic drugs has emerged as an alternative approach to rapidly identify effective, safe, and conveniently available therapeutics to treat/prevent cancer. Therefore, it was hypothesized that acidic chelator drugs could have a genuine potential as antiproliferative agents. Based on their pKa, the selected 15 acidic drugs of eight classes—namely sulfonylureas, proton pump inhibitors, fluoroquinolones, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory agents, thiazolidinediones, thienopyridines, statins, and nicotinic acid—were assayed for anticancer HTS against the lung A549, skin A375, breast MCF7 and T47D, pancreatic PANC1, cervical HeLa, and leukemia K562 cancer cell lines and normal fibroblasts. Lipopolysaccharide‐prompted inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophages was the potential anticancer mechanism. Atorvastatin exerted remarkably superior cytotoxicity against A375.2S (IC50 value 0.02 μM p < .001 vs. cisplatin 0.07 μM IC50 value). Atorvastatin exhibited an equipotency to cisplatin's T47D growth inhibition (34.6 μM vs. 34.59 μM; p > .05). Levofloxacin as well as ciprofloxacin superbly superseded the antineoplastic cisplatin activity against the K562 cell line (respective IC50 values [μM] 10.4 and 19.5 vs. 29.3; p < .05–<.01). Gemifloxacin and lansoprazole had comparable antiproliferation in K562 to cisplatin's (respective IC50 values [μM] 34.9 and 36.3 vs. 29.3; p > .05). The selected agents lacked cytotoxicity in the panel of MCF7, HeLa, A549, or Panc1 cancer cells. Most notably, LPS prompted RAW264.7 macrophages, atorvastatin, piroxicam, clopidogrel, esomeprazole, and lansoprazole were of higher anti‐inflammation potency than indomethacin (p < .01–.001). Evidently, omeprazole, pioglitazone, gemifloxacin, and indomethacin were of comparable anti‐inflammation potencies (p > .05). Collectively, this work reveals acidic chelator drugs (atorvastatin, gemifloxacin, and lansoprazole with dual anti‐inflammation and antiproliferation propensities) as authentic agents for the repurposing approach in anticancer chemotherapy/prevention.
Imidazo‐Fused Isoindoles by Pd(II)/Ag(I)‐Promoted Intramolecular Dehydrogenative Coupling
Authors: Lessi Marco , Lucci Antonio , Cuzzola Angela , Bellina Fabio
Published: January 2020

An effective Pd(II)/Ag(I)‐promoted intramolecular cross‐dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) of substituted 1‐benzylimidazoles under air provides, for the first time, a simple access to several functionalized imidazo[2,1‐a]isoindoles, an interesting class of polycyclic heteroaromatic compounds. The direct involvement of two unactivated carbon–hydrogen bonds, without any directing group, grants an elevated atom economy of the whole process.
Development of a Molecularly Imprinted Poly(Acrylic Acid)‐MWCNT Nanocomposite Electrochemical Sensor for Tramadol Determination in Pharmaceutical Samples
Authors: Ricardo Teixeira Tarley César , de Cássia Mendonça Jhessica , Rianne da Rocha Luana , Boareto Capelari Tainara , Carolyne Prete Maiyara , Cecílio Fonseca Matheus , Midori de Oliveira Fernanda , César Pereira Arnaldo , Luiz Scheel Guilherme , Bastos Borges Keyller , Gava Segatelli Mariana
Published: January 2020

A new voltammetric sensor based on molecularly imprinted poly(acrylic acid)‐MWCNT nanocomposite (MIP‐MWCNT) drop‐coated onto glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was developed and applied to tramadol (TR) determination in pharmaceutical samples. The voltammetric sensor prepared by suspension of MIP‐MWCNT at 1 : 1 (w/w) ratio show an improved performance compared to unmodified GCE. The electrochemical method is based on preconcentration of tramadol onto MIP‐MWCNT modified GCE surface at −1.5 V vs Ag/AgCl for 180 s in 0.1 Britton‐Robinson buffer (pH 8.0) at stirred solution. Upon preconcentration, the differential anodic voltammogram was recorded under the optimized condition giving rise to an analytical curve varying from 9.0 up to 30.0 μmol L−1 (R2=0.997) and limits of detection and quantification of 1.4 and 4.8 μmol L−1, respectively. The method precision was assessed in terms of intraday (n=6) and interday (two consecutive days) precision, giving relative standard deviations (RSD%) values between 2.8 to 7.4 %. Excipients usually found in pharmaceutical pills (magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, starch, and silica) and paracetamol were evaluated as potential interferents, however no interference was evidenced in TR determination. The method applicability was evaluated by TR analysis in pharmaceutical samples. Moreover, the method accuracy was attested by comparison of addition and recovery assays with a reference technique (high‐performance liquid chromatography).
A reconstructed discontinuous Galerkin method for multi‐material hydrodynamics with sharp interfaces
Authors: Pandare Aditya K. , Waltz Jacob , Bakosi Jozsef
Published: January 2020

Discontinuous Galerkin (DG) methods have been well established for single‐material hydrodynamics. However, consistent DG discretizations for non‐equilibrium multi‐material (more than two materials) hydrodynamics have not been extensively studied. In this work, a novel reconstructed DG (rDG) method for the single‐velocity multi‐material system is presented. The multi‐material system being considered assumes stiff velocity relaxation, but does not assume pressure and temperature equilibrium between the multiple materials. A second‐order DG(P1) method and a third‐order least‐squares based rDG(P1P2) are used to discretize this system in space, and a third‐order total variation diminishing (TVD) Runge‐Kutta method is used to integrate in time. A well‐balanced DG discretization of the non‐conservative system is presented and is verified by numerical test problems. Furthermore, a consistent interface treatment is implemented, which ensures strict conservation of material masses and total energy. Numerical tests indicate that the DG and rDG methods are, indeed, the second‐ and third‐order accurate. Comparisons with the second‐order finite volume method show that the DG and rDG methods are able to capture the interfaces more sharply. The DG and rDG methods are also more accurate in the single‐material regions of the flow. This work focuses on the general multidimensional rDG formulation of the non‐equilibrium multi‐material system and a study of properties of the method via one‐dimensional numerical experiments. The results from this research will be the foundation for a multidimensional high‐order rDG method for multi‐material hydrodynamics.
Influence of E‐beam irradiation on microbiological and physicochemical properties and fatty acid profile of frozen duck meat
Authors: Arshad Muhammad Sajid , Kwon Joong‐Ho , Ahmad Rabia Shabir , Ameer Kashif , Ahmad Sheraz , Jo Yunhee
Published: January 2020

This study investigated the effect of different doses (0, 3, and 7 kGy) of e‐beam on the microbiological and physicochemical qualities and the profile of fatty acids of the frozen duck meat (FDM). Electron beam at the dose of 3 kGy showed more than 2 log and 1 log cycles of reduction in the total bacterial (TAB) and coliform counts (TCC), respectively. The results indicated an increase in the TBARS values (1.50 ± 0.02 mg MDA/kg), peroxide value (0.83 ± 0.04 meq peroxide/kg), and total volatile base nitrogen (1.31 ± 0.16 mg/100 ml), but no effect on the sensory parameters. Irradiation lowered the lightness (L*) (31.87 ± 0.98) and redness (a*) (11.04 ± 0.20) values but elevated the metmyoglobin content in FDM. In addition, irradiation had no effect on the benzopyrene content; however, a reduction was observed in the vitamin A (0.239 ± 0.015 µg/g) and vitamin E (1.847 ± 0.075 µg/g) contents of the FDM samples. There were no trans‐fatty acids present in the treated (irradiated) as well as the untreated (nonirradiated) meat samples (FDM), whereas the fatty acid content decreased in irradiated samples, in contrast with the nonirradiated control. Electronic nose clearly discriminated between the nonirradiated and irradiated FDM based on principal component analysis. It is concluded that the e‐beam successfully improved the microbial quality of FDM with slight changes in physicochemical properties, but without altering its sensory properties.
Enhancement of glucose homeostasis through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway by dietary with Agaricus blazei Murrill in STZ‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Wei Qi , Li Jie , Zhan Yishu , Zhong Qiangui , Xie Baogui , Chen Lei , Chen Bingzhi , Jiang Yuji
Published: January 2020

Agaricus blazei Murrill (ABM) is an edible fungus. This study investigated the protective role of ABM fruiting body against streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats. After 4 weeks of ABM supplement, glucose homeostasis was improved in diabetic rats. Quantitative real‐time and Western blot analyses suggested that ABM could promote the gene and protein expression level of insulin receptor, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, phospho‐kinase B, kinase B, phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase, insulin receptor substrate 1, glucose transporter‐4, and glutamine synthetase, while inhibiting the expression of glycogen synthase kinase 3β and c‐jun N‐terminal kinase 1 and 2. According to multivariate and univariate statistical analysis, liver metabolite profiles of the normal and diabetic rats fed basal and experimental diet were clearly separated. The differential liver metabolites from diabetic rats fed basal and ABM diet‐related pathways including the glycolysis pathway, pentose phosphate pathway, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation were analyzed. A total of 18 potential biomarker metabolites were identified as differential biomarkers associated with ABM supplement diet.
Decarbonization Strategies: Supporting Utilities Investment in Infrastructure
Authors: DeCotis Paul A.
Published: January 2020

The year 2019 will be remembered as one of action for governments around the globe, and citizens taking action to reduce carbon emissions to combat continued warming of the atmosphere. The Paris Agreement addressing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) mitigation, agreed to in December 2015 and now representing a commitment of 195 countries participating in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, calls for limiting the increase in global average temperature below 2°C above pre‐industrial levels. Governments throughout the world and states, on their own in the United States, are enacting and proposing legislation consistent with the Paris Agreement, and codifying carbon‐reduction goals complete with timelines and processes and strategies for achieving them.
Hepatitis C Virus Prevalence in 50 U.S. States and D.C. by Sex, Birth Cohort, and Race: 2013‐2016
Authors: Bradley Heather , Hall Eric W. , Rosenthal Elizabeth M. , Sullivan Patrick S. , Ryerson A. Blythe , Rosenberg Eli S.
Published: January 2020

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a leading cause of liver‐related morbidity and mortality, and more than 2 million adults in the United States are estimated to be currently infected. Reducing HCV burden will require an understanding of demographic disparities and targeted efforts to reduce prevalence in populations with disproportionate disease rates. We modeled state‐level estimates of hepatitis C prevalence among U.S. adults by sex, birth cohort, and race during 2013‐2016. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data were used in combination with state‐level HCV‐related and narcotic overdose–related mortality data from the National Vital Statistics System and estimates from external literature review on populations not sampled in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Nationally, estimated hepatitis C prevalence was 1.3% among males and 0.6% among females (prevalence ratio [PR] = 2.3). Among persons born during 1945 to 1969, prevalence was 1.6% compared with 0.5% among persons born after 1969 (PR = 3.2). Among persons born during 1945 to 1969, prevalence ranged from 0.7% in North Dakota to 3.6% in Oklahoma and 6.8% in the District of Columbia. Among persons born after 1969, prevalence was more than twice as high in Kentucky, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and West Virginia compared with the national average. Hepatitis C prevalence was 1.8% among non‐Hispanic black persons and 0.8% among persons of other races (PR = 2.2), and the magnitude of this disparity varied widely across jurisdictions (PR range: 1.3‐7.8). Overall, 23% of prevalent HCV infections occurred among non‐Hispanic black persons, whereas 12% of the population was represented by this racial group. These estimates provide information on prevalent HCV infections that jurisdictions can use for understanding and monitoring local disease patterns and racial disparities in burden of disease.
A retrospective review to identify criteria for incorporating the Singapore flap and gracilis muscle flap into obstetric fistula repair
Authors: Pope Rachel , Hollier Pierce C. , Brown Rodger H. , Chalamanda Chisomo , Hollier Larry H. , Wilkinson Jeffrey
Published: January 2020

Objective

To identify criteria to guide surgeons regarding indications for use of the Singapore and gracilis muscle flaps in obstetric fistula repair.

Methods

This is a retrospective case series. Obstetric fistula surgeons in Lilongwe, Malawi, have been incorporating plastic surgery techniques with the Singapore and gracilis muscle flaps since collaborating with plastic surgeons in 2016. We describe the surgical outcomes of procedures utilizing each flap individually and those using both.

Results

Between February 2016 and June 2019, 69 patients received a flap at the time of obstetric fistula repair at the Fistula Care Center in Lilongwe, Malawi. A total of 32 (46.4%) received a Singapore flap, 20 (29.0%) received a gracilis flap, and 17 (24.6%) received both types of flap.

Conclusion

Based on our outcomes, we note the possible advantage of incorporating the gracilis flap even when it is thought that the Singapore flap is sufficient. However, more data are needed.
Porous titanium fiber mesh with tailored elasticity and its effect on stromal cells
Authors: Aerts Evy , Li Jinmeng , Van Steenbergen Mies J. , Degrande Tanika , Jansen John A. , Walboomers X. Frank
Published: January 2020

Porous titanium fiber mesh (TFM) is considered a suitable scaffold material for bone reconstruction. Also, TFM can be used to cover the surface of bone‐anchored devices, that is, orthopedic or dental implants. The titanium fiber size has an effect of the stiffness as well as porosity of the titanium mesh, which can influence the behavior of bone forming cells. Therefore, the aim of this study was to vary TFM composition, in order to achieve different stiffness, and to assess the effects of such variation on the behavior of bone marrow‐derived stromal cells (BMSCs). With that purpose, nine types of TFM (porosities 60–87%; fiber size 22–50 μm), were examined for their mechanical properties as well as their effect on the proliferation and differentiation of rat bone marrow‐derived stromal cells (rBMSCs) up to 21 days. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that the stiffness of TFM were lower than of solid titanium and decreased with larger fiber sizes. The stiffness could effectively be tailored by altering fiber properties, which altered the pore simultaneously. For the 22 and 35 μm size fiber meshes with the highest porosity, the stiffness closely matched the value found in literature for cortical bone. Finally, all tested TFM types supported the growth and differentiation of rBMSCs. We concluded that TFM material has been proven cytocompatible. Further preclinical studies are needed to assess which TFM type is most suitable as clinical use for bone ingrowth and bone regeneration.
Comprehensive assessment of mechanical behavior of an extremely long stent graft to control hemorrhage in torso
Authors: Elsisy Moataz , Tillman Bryan W. , Go Catherine , Kuhn Jenna , Cho Sung K. , Clark William W. , Park Junkyu , Chun Youngjae
Published: January 2020

Traumatic vascular injuries, resulting from either civilian accidents or wounded soldiers, require new endovascular devices (i.e., stent graft) to rapidly control the excessive internal hemorrhage in torso region. Current stent designs are limited by their permanent nature, which is note well suited for emergent placement. A retrievable stent graft could regulate the internal bleeding temporarily, as fast as possible with the most feasible performance, until the patients arrive the hospital to receive the proper treatment. The novel endovascular device of this study is designed according to the anatomy of a porcine model with plans to transition to a human model in the future. The stent graft is manufactured using a substantially long nitinol backbone and covered selectively based on anatomic measurements, with highly stretchable expanded‐polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). In this study, our group comprehensively explored designing and manufacturing methods, and their impact on the stent graft performance. Geometric parameters and heat treatment conditions were investigated to show their effect on the radial force of the metallic backbone. As a retrievable device, the resistance force for retrieval as well as deployment were measured, and analyzed to be manipulated through ePTFE covering configurations. In vitro measurements for bleeding were measured using swine aorta to show the functionality of the stent graft under the simulated pulsatile flow circulation. Finally, the stent graft showed substantial effectiveness for hemorrhage control in vivo, using swine model. The new design and fabrication methods enable rapid hemorrhage control that can be removed at the time of a dedicated surgical repair.
Common gene polymorphism in ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 and coronary artery disease: A genetic association study and a structural analysis
Authors: Karimian Mohammad , Momeni Ali , Farmohammadi Amir , Behjati Mohaddeseh , Jafari Marjan , Raygan Fariba
Published: January 2020

ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) has a crucial role in removing intracellular cholesterol and plays a protective role against atherosclerosis. Therefore, genetic polymorphisms in this gene may alter the susceptibility to coronary artery disease (CAD). This study was aimed to examine the association of rs2230806 (c.1051 G > A; p.R219K) variation in the ABCA1 gene with CAD in a case‐control design which was followed by a meta‐analysis and in silico approach. In the case‐control study, 300 subjects including 150 individuals with CAD and 150 healthy controls were recruited. The c.1051 G > A genotyping was done by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism method. In the meta‐analysis, eligible studies were collected from PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases and pooled odds ratio, heterogeneity, publication bias, and sensitivity analyses were carried. Finally, some bioinformatics tools were employed to assess the impacts of p.R219K variation on ABCA1 protein structure. Our case‐control examination showed a statistically significant association between c.1051 G > A genetic polymorphism and CAD risk. In addition, the meta‐analysis showed reliable significant associations between c.1051 G > A transition and risk of CAD in the Caucasian population. In silico analysis showed that the p.R219K substitution could alter the secondary structure, hydrophobicity pattern, and Ramachandran plot of ABCA1. These findings elucidate that the c.1051 G > A variation could be a genetic risk factor for CAD and it could be considered as a prognostic and predictive biomarker for susceptible individuals.
lncRNA MIAT promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression by regulating miR‐1301‐3p/INCENP axis and interacting with SOX2
Authors: Zhang Chunyan , Xie Linsen , Fu Yin , Yang Juanjuan , Cui Yuanbo
Published: January 2020

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to participate in the development of multiple cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). A growing number of studies have demonstrated that lncRNA myocardial infarction‐associated transcript (MIAT) played an oncogenic role in several human malignancies, but its expression and function in ESCC remain unknown. In this study, we found that MIAT was significantly increased in ESCC tissues, as well as cell lines. Downregulation of MIAT suppressed ESCC cell proliferation, cell cycle, migration, and invasion. Mechanical studies revealed that MIAT promoted ESCC cell proliferation and cell cycle by acting as a competitively endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to upregulate the inner centromere protein (INCENP) expression through sponging miR‐1301‐3p. Furthermore, we uncovered that MIAT‐SOX2 formed a positive feedback loop to facilitate cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of ESCC. Our findings indicated that MIAT promoted ESCC progression via targeting INCENP/miR‐1301‐3p axis and interacting with SOX2, suggesting novel potential therapeutic targets for ESCC.
Profiling and integrated analysis of differentially expressed circRNAs as novel biomarkers for breast cancer
Authors: Li Zehuan , Chen Zhanghan , Hu Guohua , Zhang Yong , Feng Yanling , Jiang Ying , Wang Jin
Published: January 2020

Breast cancer (BC) is a globally common cancer with the highest and increasing morbidity and mortality among females. Novel biomarkers are warranted to be discovered for the early detection, treatment, and prognosis of BC. In this study, we investigated the profiles of differentially expressed (DE) circular RNAs (circRNAs) by competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) microarray to construct a genome‐wide circRNA profile. Then, we performed Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome (KEGG) pathway analysis of the host genes (HGs) of circRNAs. A total of 4,370 DE circRNAs were detected and GO and KEGG analysis showed that they were significantly associated with cell cycle, DNA replication, BC, and familial BC. We validated the differential circRNAs and relevant HGs through quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and constructed a putative circRNA–microRNA–messenger RNA regulatory network. Eight circRNAs, including hsa_circ_0069094, hsa_circ_0062558, hsa_circ_0074026, hsa_circ_0079876, hsa_circ_0017536, hsa_circ_0023302, hsa_circ_0017650, and hsa_circ_0017545, were validated significantly DE in BC tissue and associated with TNM staging, lymph node infiltration, and Ki67. Hsa_circ_0069094, hsa_circ_0079876, hsa_circ_0017650, and hsa_circ_0017526 were upregulated in plasma. This study revealed the general expression characteristics of specific DE circRNAs in BC and hsa_circ_0069094, hsa_circ_0079876, hsa_circ_0017650, and hsa_circ_0017526 might be promising candidate targets.
Reference values for skeletal muscle mass and fat mass measured by bioelectrical impedance in 390 565 UK adults
Authors: Lee Mei‐Man , Jebb Susan A. , Oke Jason , Piernas Carmen
Published: January 2020

Background

Loss of skeletal muscle mass (SMM) increases the risk of frailty and, together with excess fat mass (FM), is a risk factor for cardio‐metabolic disease. However, use of body composition measurements in nutritional surveillance and routine clinical practice is limited by the lack of reference data. Our aim was to produce age‐specific and sex‐specific reference values for SMM and FM in the White ethnic adult population in the UK. Secondary objectives were to examine the tracking over time using a subsample of the population with repeated measures of body composition and to assess the validity of these reference values in different ethnic subgroups.

Methods

We used data from segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in 390 565 participants, aged 40–69 years, in the UK Biobank, and data from dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry from n = 905 participants to validate the BIA measurements. SMM was calculated as the sum of the predicted muscle mass from the limbs. The LMS method was used to produce percentile curves for the SMM index (SMMI = SMM/height2) and the FM index (FMI = FM/height2). We investigated the validity of the White ethnic reference values by plotting z‐scores (99.7% confidence interval) from Black and Asian groups to check if their confidence interval included zero. Longitudinal trajectories were predicted based on the baseline z‐scores and the correlation between repeated measurements at follow‐up.

Results

The percentile curves show that SMMI declines in men from the age of 40, whereas in women, SMMI is more stable and decreases only slightly among women in the higher percentiles. FMI increases with age in both men and women. Women have higher FMI and lower SMMI than men in all age groups. The validity of the White‐based reference values for non‐White ethnic groups is poor. Longitudinal trajectories in body composition in the subsample of participants with a follow‐up assessment show regression towards the mean in both men and women, with some evidence of declining SMMI only among men. The predicted 90% limits for the expected 5 year trajectories of SMMI and FMI can be used to identify people with unusual trajectories and in clinical practice to identify and track individuals at risk of excessive loss of SMM.

Conclusions

These body composition reference values developed from BIA in a middle/older‐aged healthy White ethnic population in the UK could be used as a simple assessment tool for nutritional surveillance and to identify individuals with low SMMI or high FMI who may be at increased risk of disease and/or frailty.