bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel germline TRAF3IP3 mutation in a dyad with familial acute B lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Pommert Lauren , Burns Robert , Furumo Quinlan , Pulakanti Kirthi , Brandt Jon , Burke Michael J. , Rao Sridhar
Published: January 2021

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common hematologic malignancy in children, representing 25% of all new cancer diagnoses. Advances in genomic sequencing have demonstrated that inherited genetic risk factors play a larger role in leukemia development than previously appreciated.

Aim

We identified a father–daughter dyad with childhood B‐cell ALL and aimed to investigate whether the pair shared a gene associated with leukemia predisposition.

Methods

We performed whole exome sequencing on their leukemia and germline samples and RNA‐seq on their leukemia samples.

Results

We discovered a novel germline chromosomal structural variant in chromosome 1q32.2 within the TRAF3IP3 gene. TRAF3IP3 regulates B‐cell lymphopoiesis, and this mutation likely resulted in a predisposition to leukemia by causing expansion of immature B‐cell precursors which are highly vulnerable to secondary somatic mutations. Based on the lack of concordance in the somatic mutational profiles between this dyad's leukemia samples, we suspect that the acquired somatic mutations rather than this germline mutation are what dictated their leukemia phenotypes, which we confirmed through RNA‐seq by comparing to sporadic cases of B‐cell ALL.

Conclusion

This research may have identified a novel gene involved in leukemogenesis which may also be involved in de novo cases of ALL. Additional studies are needed to further characterize this TRAF3IP3 structural variant, the co‐occurring somatic mutations within these leukemia samples and their combined role in leukemogenesis.
Chemical Synthesis and Substrate Temperature Effect on Morphology of 2D Vanadium Disulfide
Authors: Hossain Mongur , Qin Biao , Sen Sapan Kumar
Published: January 2021

2D metallic transition metal dichalcogenides exhibit plenty of intriguing physical properties such as magnetism, charge density wave, and superconductivity resulting in worldwide attention from condensed‐matter physicists over the last few decades. Herein, the chemical synthesis and substrate temperature effect on the morphology of 2D vanadium disulfide (VS2) are reported. The synthesis is done by atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition using vanadium chloride (VCl3) precursor on SiO2/Si, fluorphlogopite mica, and hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) substrates. The effect of substrate temperatures on the morphology of 2D VS2 nanosheets growth is investigated by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Large area VS2 films are attained when the substrate temperature is 650 °C whereas VS2 single crystals are obtained at 550 °C.
Molecular similarity between the mechanisms of epithelial fusion and fetal wound healing during the closure of the caudal neural tube in mouse embryos
Authors: Fernández‐Santos Beatriz , Caro‐Vega José Manuel , Sola‐Idígora Noelia , Lazarini‐Suárez Cecilia , Mañas‐García Laura , Duarte Patrícia , Fuerte‐Hortigón Alejandro , Ybot‐González Patricia
Published: January 2021

Background

Neural tube (NT) closure is a complex developmental process that takes place in the early stages of embryogenesis and that is a key step in neurulation. In mammals, the process by which the neural plate generates the NT requires organized cell movements and tissue folding, and it terminates with the fusion of the apposed ends of the neural folds.

Results

Here we describe how almost identical cellular and molecular machinery is used to fuse the spinal neural folds as that involved in the repair of epithelial injury in the same area of the embryo. For both natural and wound activated closure of caudal neural tissue, hyaluronic acid and platelet‐derived growth factor signaling appear to be crucial for the final fusion step.

Conclusions

There seems to be no general wound healing machinery for all tissues but rather, a tissue‐specific epithelial fusion machinery that embryos activate when necessary after abnormal epithelial opening.
Bridging executive function and disinhibited eating among youth: A network analysis
Authors: Byrne Meghan E. , Tanofsky‐Kraff Marian , Lavender Jason M. , Parker Megan N. , Shank Lisa M. , Swanson Taylor N. , Ramirez Eliana , LeMay‐Russell Sarah , Yang Shanna B. , Brady Sheila M. , Zenno Anna , Chivukula Krishna Karthik , Kelly Nichole R. , Yanovski Jack A.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Poorer executive function (EF) has been linked to disinhibited eating in youth, suggesting poor EF predisposes toward obesity, yet the specific nature and extent of interconnections between facets of these domains is unclear. Network analysis provides a promising framework for elucidating the relationship between poor EF and disinhibited eating, and offers insights into potential maintenance processes.

Method

Among youth ages 8–17 years, a regularized partial correlation network of EF and disinhibited eating facets was estimated to examine expected influence centrality and bridge expected influence. Computerized neurocognitive tasks assessed EF variables, including decision‐making, general and food‐related inhibitory control, delayed gratification, cognitive flexibility, and working memory. Disinhibited eating variables included total carbohydrate–fat intake at a laboratory test meal and self‐reported eating in the absence of hunger, emotional eating, and loss‐of‐control eating severity.

Results

In the current sample (N = 248; Mage = 12.5; 54.8% female; 43.5% non‐Hispanic White; 25.8% non‐Hispanic Black; BMI %ile = 65.8 ± 27.8), emotional eating in response to depressive symptoms emerged as a central symptom in the network. Carbohydrate–fat intake had the highest bridge expected influence and was most strongly connected to general inhibitory control (part r = .14).

Discussion

The link between general inhibitory control and objective palatable food intake may be particularly salient in maintaining maladaptive eating behavior. Interventions targeting behavioral disinhibition may disrupt associations among a network of disinhibited eating facets in youth and should be targets for longitudinal research.
Worsening of heart failure by coronavirus disease 2019 is associated with high mortality
Authors: Bocchi Edimar Alcides , Lima Ivna Girard Cunha Vieira , Biselli Bruno , Salemi Vera Maria Cury , Ferreira Silvia Moreira Ayub , Chizzola Paulo Roberto , Munhoz Robinson Tadeu , Pessoa Ranna Santos , Cardoso Francisco Akira Malta , Bello Mariana Vieira de Oliveira , Hajjar Ludhmila Abrahão , Gomes Brenno Rizerio
Published: January 2021

Aims

Patients with advanced heart failure (HF) with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF) and concurrent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) might have a higher risk of severe events.

Methods and results

We retrospectively studied 16 patients with advanced HFrEF who developed COVID‐19 between 1 March and 29 May 2020. Follow‐up lasted until 30 September. Ten patients previously hospitalized with decompensated HFrEF were infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) during hospitalization. Six patients undergoing ambulatory care at initiation of COVID‐19 symptoms were hospitalized because of advanced HFrEF. All patients who experienced worsening of HFrEF due to COVID‐19 required higher doses or introduction of additional inotropic drugs or intra‐aortic balloon pump in the intensive care unit. The mean intravenous dobutamine dose before SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in previously hospitalized patients (n = 10) and the median (inter‐quartile range) peak intravenous dobutamine dose during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in all patients (n = 16) were 2 (0–7) μg/kg/min and 20 (14–20) (P < 0.001), respectively. During follow‐up, 56% underwent heart transplantation (n = 2) or died (n = 7). Four patients died during hospitalization from mixed shock consequent to severe acute respiratory syndrome with inflammatory storm syndrome associated with septic and cardiogenic shock during COVID‐19. After COVID‐19 recovery, two patients died from mixed septic and cardiogenic shock and one from sustained ventricular tachycardia and cardiogenic shock. Five patients were discharged from hospital to ambulatory care. Four were awaiting heart transplantation.

Conclusion

Worsening of advanced HF by COVID‐19 is associated with high mortality. This report highlights the importance of preventing COVID‐19 in patients with advanced HF.
High‐protein vs. standard‐protein diets in overweight and obese patients with heart failure and diabetes mellitus: findings of the Pro‐HEART trial
Authors: Evangelista Lorraine S. , Jose Mini M. , Sallam Hanaa , Serag Hani , Golovko George , Khanipov Kamil , Hamilton Michele A. , Fonarow Gregg C.
Published: January 2021

Aims

The intermediate‐term effects of dietary protein on cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight and obese patients with heart failure and diabetes mellitus are unknown. We compared the effect of two calorie‐restricted diets on cardiometabolic risk factors in this population.

Methods and results

In this randomized controlled study, 76 overweight and obese (mean weight, 107.8 ± 20.8 kg) patients aged 57.7 ± 9.7 years, 72.4% male, were randomized to a high‐protein (30% protein, 40% carbohydrates, and 30% fat) or standard‐protein diet (15% protein, 55% carbohydrates, and 30% fat) for 3 months. Reductions in weight and cardiometabolic risks were evaluated at 3 months. Both diets were equally effective in reducing weight (3.6 vs. 2.9 kg) and waist circumference (1.9 vs. 1.3 cm), but the high‐protein diet decreased to a greater extent glycosylated haemoglobin levels (0.7% vs. 0.1%, P = 0.002), cholesterol (16.8 vs. 0.9 mg/dL, P = 0.031), and triglyceride (25.7 vs. 5.7 mg/dL, P = 0.032), when compared with the standard‐protein diet. The high‐protein diet also significantly improved both systolic and diastolic blood pressure than the standard‐protein diet (P < 0.001 and P = 0.040, respectively).

Conclusions

Both energy‐restricted diets reduced weight and visceral fat. However, the high‐protein diet resulted in greater reductions in cardiometabolic risks relative to a standard‐protein diet. These results suggest that a high‐protein diet may be more effective in reducing cardiometabolic risk in this population, but further trials of longer duration are needed.
Reactivity of 2‐mercaptopyridines with Iridium(I)‐Tris(pyrazolyl) borate complexes
Authors: Gomez‐Bonilla Manuel A. , Salazar‐Pereda Verónica , Mendoza‐Espinosa Daniel , Gonzalez‐Montiel Simplicio , Castañeda‐Ovando Aracely , Rojas‐Lima Susana , Sandoval‐Chavez Cesar I. , Lopez‐Jímenez Jorge A.
Published: January 2021

Reaction of of the Ir(I) complex [TpMe2Ir−(C2H4)2] (1) with a variety of mercaptopyridines produces in good yields the Ir(III)‐metallacycles 2–4 with the general formula [TpMe2Ir(C2H5)(k2‐(N,S)‐mercaptopyridine)]. Complexes 2–4 are proposed to take place by the initial formation of the 16 electron intermediate [TpMe2Ir(CH=CH2)(C2H5)] which then coordinates the nitrogen atom of the mercaptopyridine and promotes the deprotonation of the SH group via the elimination of an ethylene molecule. Heating of complex [TpMe2Ir(η4‐CH2=C(Me)C(Me)=CH2)]] (5) at 100 °C with the substituted mercaptopyridines results in the formation of the Ir(III) complexes 6–8 with the general formula [TpMe2Ir(C6H5)(κ2‐(N,S)‐mercaptopyridine)]. Generation of complexes 6–8 is proposed to take place by the initial formation of the [TpMe2Ir(C6H5)2N2] complex which after releasing nitrogen coordinates the mercaptopyridine in a η1‐fashion and favour the SH moiety deprotonation with the release of a benzene molecule. All complexes have been fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy, FT‐IR, elemental analysis and in the case of 2, 4, and 8 by X‐ray crystallography. Details of the reaction conditions, characterization and isolation of the products will be discussed.
Self‐Assembly of a Dodecanuclear [Ni12] Wheel
Authors: Liu Qi , Li Chang'An , Yao Binling , Cui Yunshu , Cheng Yue , Deng Yi‐Fei , Chen Zi‐Yi , Zhang Yuan‐Zhu
Published: January 2021

Self‐assembly of nickle acetate and N,N′‐di[1‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)‐ethylidene]hydrazone (H2L) ligand in a 2 : 1 ratio in DMF and methanol afforded a dodecanuclear wheel‐like coordination cluster: [Ni12L6(OAc)6(HCOO)6(DMF)6] ⋅ 4DMF ⋅ 5H2O (1), in which the formate ions were likely in situ originated from the oxidation of methanol molecules and each deprotonate ligand (L2−) adopting the μ4‐η2,η1,η1,η2 coordination mode with a large C=N−N=C torsion angle of 94.1° ligates four different Ni(II) ions. Magnetic study revealed that 1 showed the long‐range antiferromagnetic order with the Neer temperature of 9.0 K while the intracluster interaction between the neighboring Ni centers is alternately ferro‐ and antiferromagnetic (J=+5.0/−9.2 K in the one J), mainly depending on the oxo‐bridging angles.
Biomimetic Syntheses of Amorfrutin C and C‐5 Substituted Amorfrutin Analogues
Authors: Patel Calum , Mies Thomas , White Andrew J. P. , Parsons Philip J. , Barrett Anthony G. M.
Published: January 2021

Amorfrutin C, a C‐5 prenyl amorfrutin, its allyl analog and an amorfrutin C‐5 aldehyde have been synthesized using a biomimetic strategy from non‐aromatic precursors. In this approach, a dioxinone derived β,δ‐diketo ester underwent a decarboxylative Pd(0) catalyzed prenyl migration to give a β,δ‐diketo dioxinone, which readily aromatized giving the amorfrutin core. The introduction of prenyl and allyl moieties at the C‐5 position of the scaffold was accomplished using a Claisen rearrangement. Alternatively, iodination, lithium‐iodine exchange and trapping with DMF gave the amorfrutin aldehyde and an amorfrutin alcohol when excess n‐BuLi was used.
Replication‐aware secure resource administration scheme for Internet of Things‐smart city applications
Authors: Al Solami Eesa
Published: January 2021

The distributed and heterogeneous nature of the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm provides backhauled support for different smart‐city applications. As it provides ubiquitous access to resources and replicated services, the threat for security remains firm for different applications. The concept of cybersecurity in the IoT‐smart‐city combination grants promising outcomes in securing the physical and service‐centric resources from external threats. This article proposes to improve the protection of the IoT services in smart‐city applications using replication‐aware secure resource administration scheme framework. In a smart city application, which involves a cloud, based network, IoT platform, and distributed sensor networks guarantees differentiated protection mechanisms for replicated and non‐replicated infrastructure. Instantly revocable security activities are used to prevent unintended attacks to the original resource supplier from monitoring non‐replicated services. For this purpose, Naïve Bayes' diffusion approach is used to continuously evaluate the likelihood of disclosure of the repeated and unreplicated properties. The hazard and level of exposure for which prompted protection is assessed using the recommendations of the delivery system. The promptness of the security outcome is based on re‐formulating permission delegations, security checks, and so on. This helps to leverage the security level of the available resources irrespective of the impact of the external threats. Besides, the proposed scheme improves the lifetime of the services with controlled overhead and service failures.
CTrust‐RPL: A control layer‐based trust mechanism for supporting secure routing in routing protocol for low power and lossy networks‐based Internet of Things applications
Authors: ul Hassan Temur , Asim Muhammad , Baker Thar , Hassan Jawad , Tariq Noshina
Published: January 2021

Internet of Things (IoT) fostered a new epoch of innovation by interconnecting digital devices to make human life more convenient and attractive. These smart objects are largely deployed as low power and lossy networks (LLNs) and use routing protocol for LLNs (RPL) for routing. Unfortunately, it is extremely vulnerable to a large variety of external and internal attacks to cause devastating and calamitous effects. However, this article's scope revolves around internal attacks only, where nodes are already part of a legitimate network. Various trust‐based mechanisms have been proposed to secure the RPL protocol from insider attackers. Existing trust mechanisms cause high energy depletion due to complex computation on the node level, which consequently decreases the performance of LLNs. Therefore, this article presents a novel hierarchical trust‐based mechanism “CTrust‐RPL” by assessing the trust of nodes based on their forwarding behaviors. This study ships complex trust‐related computations to the higher layer, known as the controller, to save computational, storage, and energy resources at the node level. We also compare the proposed mechanism with a state‐of‐the‐art technique calledSec‐trust. Our mechanism demonstrates superior performance in detecting and isolating blackhole attacks. The results depict thatCTrust‐RPLdetects and isolates 10% more malicious nodes thanSec‐trustin the same time‐lapse. The average packet loss ratio difference is less for our proposed mechanism, with 35% more energy efficiency.
Maternal protein restriction induces renal AT2R promoter hypomethylation in salt‐sensitive, hypertensive rats
Authors: Miyoshi Moe , Imakado Yasuhisa , Otani Lila , Kaji Misa , Aanzai Yuki , Sugimoto Naoya , Murakami Tetsuo , Fukuoka Masashi , Hohjoh Hirohiko , Jia Huijuan , Kato Hisanori
Published: January 2021

Scope

We previously demonstrated that protein restriction in utero induced salt‐sensitive hypertension and changed renal levels of angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) in Stroke‐Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat (SHRSP). Here, we investigated if this characteristic alteration of AT2R is related to AT2R DNA methylation profiles.

Methods and Results

First, we examined the relation between AT2R DNA methylation and its promoter activity in vitro. Luciferase assays revealed a negative correlation between these two variables. Next, we fed SHRSP dams and grand‐dams a control 20% casein diet or a 9% casein diet during pregnancy. Adult offspring and grand‐offspring were supplied either water or 1% saline solution for 2 weeks. Renal AT2R promoter DNA near the TATA‐box was hypomethylated, mRNA expression was suppressed, and protein expression tended to be higher, in adult offspring of mothers fed a low casein diet. Moreover, adult grand‐offspring exhibited high blood pressure after salt loading, along with suppressed transcription of AT2R mRNA and elevated translated protein.

Conclusions

Under a fetal environment of protein restriction, the increase in protein expression due to hypomethylation of the AT2R promoter region occurs as a response to increased salt sensitivity, and controlling this mechanism may be important for the prevention of hypertension.
Association of dietary calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D with type 2 diabetes among US adults: National health and nutrition examination survey 2007–2014—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Shah Imran Ullah , Sameen Aysha , Manzoor Muhammad Faisal , Ahmed Zahoor , Gao Jian , Farooq Umar , Siddiqi Sultan Mehmood , Siddique Rabia , Habib Adnan , Sun Changhao , Siddeeg Azhari
Published: January 2021

Higher dietary intake of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and vitamin D has been associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and a higher intracellular ratio of Ca to Mg leads to insulin resistance. Previous epidemiological studies did not examine the combined effects of dietary Ca, Mg, and vitamin D as well as ratio of Ca to Mg with T2DM. Therefore, we assessed the relationship between dietary intakes of Mg, Ca, and vitamin D (using 24‐hr recalls) individually and in composite and T2DM in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2014, which involved 20,480 adults (9,977 men and 10,503 women) with comprehensive information on related nutrients, and anthropometric, demographic, and biomarker variables using multivariable logistic regression. The results indicated that dietary calcium at Q3 (812 mg/day) was significantly linked with T2DM in women (OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.65). Dietary vitamin D at Q3 (5.25 μg/day) significantly reduced the odds of T2DM by 21% in men (OR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.64, 0.98). This is an interesting study that has important implications for dietary recommendations. It is concluded that US adults having dietary Ca below the RDA were associated with increased risk of T2DM in all population and women, while higher ratio of Ca to Mg was associated with increased risk of T2DM in all population and increased vitamin D intake is related to decreased risk of T2DM in men. Moreover, further research is needed to make more definitive nutritional recommendations.
Probing BRD Inhibition Substituent Effects in Bulky Analogues of (+)‐JQ1
Authors: Hassell‐Hart Storm , Picaud Sarah , Lengacher Raphael , Csucker Joshua , Millet Regis , Gasser Gilles , Alberto Roger , Maple Hannah , Felix Robert , Leśnikowski Zbigniew J. , Stewart Helen J. S. , Chevassut Timothy J. , Morley Simon , Filippakopoulos Panagis , Spencer John
Published: January 2021

A series of bulky organometallic and organic analogues of the bromodomain (BRD) inhibitor (+)‐JQ1 have been prepared. The most potent, N‐[(adamantan‐1‐yl)methyl]‐2‐[(9S)‐7‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐4,5,13‐trimethyl‐3‐thia‐1,8,11,12‐tetraazatricyclo[8.3.0.02,6]trideca‐2(6),4,7,10,12‐pentaen‐9‐yl]acetamide, 2e, showed excellent potency with an KD=ca. 130 nm vs. BRD4(1) and a ca. 2‐fold selectivity over BRD4(2) (KD=ca. 260 nm). Its binding to the first bromodomain of BRD4 was determined by a protein cocrystal structure.
Suggesting a framework for preparedness against the pandemic outbreak based on medical informatics solutions: a thematic analysis
Authors: Gholamzadeh Marsa , Abtahi Hamidreza , Safdari Reza
Published: January 2021

Background

When an outbreak emerged, each country needs a coherent and preventive plan to deal with epidemics. In the era of technology, adopting informatics‐based solutions is essential. The main objective of this study is to propose a conceptual framework to provide a rapid and responsive surveillance system against pandemics.

Methods

A three‐step approach was employed in this research to develop a conceptual framework. These three steps comprise (1) literature review, (2) extracting and coding concepts, and determining main themes based on thematic analysis usingATLAS.ti®software, and (3) mapping concepts. Later, all of the results synthesized under expert consultation to design a conceptual framework based on the main themes and identified strategies related to medical informatics.

Results

In the literature review phase, 65 articles were identified as eligible studies for analysis. Through line by line coding in thematic analysis, more than 46 themes were extracted as potential foremost themes. Based on the key themes and strategies were employed by studies, the proposed framework designed in three main components. The most appropriate strategies that can be used in each section were identified based on the demands of each part and the available solutions. These solutions were employed in the final framework.

Conclusion

The presented model in this study can be the first step for a better understanding of the potential of medical informatics solutions in promoting epidemic disease management. It can be applied as a reference model for designing intelligent surveillance systems to prepare for probable future pandemics.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of water sources in a mountain river basin inferred throughδ2Handδ18Oof water
Authors: McGill Lillian M. , Brooks J. Renée , Steel E. Ashley
Published: January 2021

In mountainous river basins of the Pacific Northwest, climate models predict that winter warming will result in increased precipitation falling as rain and decreased snowpack. A detailed understanding of the spatial and temporal dynamics of water sources across river networks will help illuminate climate change impacts on river flow regimes. Because the stable isotopic composition of precipitation varies geographically, variation in surface water isotope ratios indicates the volume‐weighted integration of upstream source water. We measured the stable isotope ratios of surface water samples collected in the Snoqualmie River basin in western Washington over June and September 2017 and the 2018 water year. We used ordinary least squares regression and geostatistical Spatial Stream Network models to relate surface water isotope ratios to mean watershed elevation (MWE) across seasons. Geologic and discharge data was integrated with water isotopes to create a conceptual model of streamflow generation for the Snoqualmie River. We found that surface water stable isotope ratios were lowest in the spring and highest in the dry, Mediterranean summer, but related strongly to MWE throughout the year. Low isotope ratios in spring reflect the input of snowmelt into high elevation tributaries. High summer isotope ratios suggest that groundwater is sourced from low elevation areas and recharged by winter precipitation. Overall, our results suggest that baseflow in the Snoqualmie River may be relatively resilient to predicted warming and subsequent changes to snowpack in the Pacific Northwest.
Machine learning for accelerating 2D flood models: Potential and challenges
Authors: Jamali Behzad , Haghighat Ehsan , Ignjatovic Aleksandar , Leitão João P. , Deletic Ana
Published: January 2021

Two‐dimensional hydrodynamic models numerically solve full Shallow Water Equations (SWEs). Despite their high accuracy, these models have long simulation run times and therefore are of limited use for exploratory or real‐time flood predictions. We investigated the possibility of improving flood modelling speed using Machine Learning (ML). We propose a new method that replaces the computationally expensive parts of the hydrodynamic models with simple and efficient data‐driven approximations. Our hypothesis is that by integrating ML with physics‐based numerical methods, we can achieve improved generalization performance: that is, the trained model for one case study can be used in other studies without the need for new training. We tested two ML approaches: for the first, we integrated curve fitting, and, for the second, artificial neural networks (ANN) with a finite volume scheme to solve the local inertial approximation of the SWEs. The data‐driven models approximated the Momentum Equation, which explicitly solved the time derivative of flow rates. Water depths were then updated by applying a water balance equation. We also tested two different training datasets: the simulated dataset, generated from the results of hydrodynamic model, and the random dataset, generated by directly solving the momentum equation on randomly sampled input data. Various combinations of input features, for example, water slope and depth, were explored. The proposed models were trained in a small hypothetical case and tested in a different hypothetical and in two real case studies. Results showed that the curve‐fitting method can be implemented successfully, given sufficient training and input data. The ANN model trained with a random dataset was substantially more accurate than that of the model trained with the simulated dataset. However, it was not successful in the real case studies. The curve‐fitting method resulted in better generalization performance and increased the simulation speed of the local inertial model by 23%. Future research should test the performance of ML in terms of an increase in stable time step size and approximation of the full SWEs.
Development of a prognostic index based on immunogenomic landscape analysis in glioma
Authors: Luo Haitao , Tao Chuming , Wang Peng , Li Jingying , Huang Kai , Zhu Xingen
Published: January 2021

Background

Glioma is the most common intracranial tumor. The inflammatory response actively participates in the malignancy of gliomas. There is still limited knowledge about the biological function of immune‐related genes (IRGs) and their potential involvement in the malignancy of gliomas.

Methods

We screened differentially expressed and survival‐associated IRGs, and explored their potential molecular characteristics. Then we developed a prognostic index derived from seven hub IRGs. A prognostic nomogram was built to indicate the prognostic value of the prognostic index and seven IRGs. We characterized the immune infiltration landscape to analyze tumor‐immune interactions. The real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay was performed to validate bioinformatics results.

Results

The differentially expressed IRGs are involved in cell chemotaxis, cytokine activity, and the chemokine‐mediated signaling pathway. The prognostic index derived from seven IRGs had clinical prognostic value in glioma, and positively correlated with the malignant clinicopathological characteristics. A nomogram further indicated that the prognostic index and seven hub IRGs had clinical prognostic value for gliomas. We revealed that the prognostic index could reflect the state of the glioma immune microenvironment.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the importance of an IRG‐based prognostic index as a potential biomarker for predicting malignancy in gliomas.
Analysis of default risk in microfinance institutions under the Basel III framework
Authors: Durango‐Gutiérrez Maria Patricia , Lara‐Rubio Juan , Navarro‐Galera Andrés
Published: January 2021

International organizations such as OECD, WBG, IMF, UN and EU, as well as research studies, have highlighted the increasing contribution being made by microcredit finance institutions (MFIs) to financial inclusion, sustainable economic development and the fight against poverty. However, access to MFI credit is still far from the desired level for small and micro‐enterprises, especially in developing countries. The countries of Latin America and the Caribbean, where approximately half of the small formal companies do not have access to credit, have the world's highest financial gap ratio compared to potential demand (87%). In this context, effective instruments are needed to assess default risk, through credit ratings. Based on the Basel III regulations, an empirical study was conducted of two microcredit portfolios corresponding to two MFIs in two Latin American countries (Bolivia and Colombia) during the period 2012–2015, to identify the explanatory variables of the probability of default on loans granted by MFIs, using a logistic regression model and a neural network. The results obtained show that the main variables in this respect are the amount of the loan, the number of payments in arrears, the guarantees provided, the assessment of the credit analyst, male gender of the borrower and the level and trend of the general stock exchange index. The conclusions presented advance previous research findings and may be useful for MFI managers, regulatory institutions, financial analysts, scholars, policy‐makers and applicants for microcredits to undertake a business project, especially in times of emerging crisis, such as that caused by the Covid‐19 pandemic.
Indocyanine green‐enhanced multimodal photoacoustic microscopy and optical coherence tomography molecular imaging of choroidal neovascularization
Authors: Nguyen Van Phuc , Folz Jeff , Li Yanxiu , Henry Jessica , Zhang Wei , Qian Thomas , Wang Xueding , Paulus Yannis M.
Published: January 2021

Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) has great potential for visualization of the microvasculature with high spatial resolution and contrast. Early detection and differentiation of newly developed blood vessels named choroidal neovascularization (CNV) from normal vasculature remains a challenge in ophthalmology. Exogenous contrast agents can assist with improving PAM sensitivity, leading to differentiation of CNV. Here, an FDA‐approved indocyanine green (ICG) was utilized as a PAM contrast agent. ICG was conjugated with RGD peptides, allowing the ICG to bind to the integrin expressed in CNV. Molecular PAM imaging showed that ICG‐RGD can target CNV for up to 5 days post intravenous administration in living rabbits with a model of CNV. The PAM image sensitivity and image contrast were significantly enhanced by 15‐fold at 24 h post‐injection. Overall, the presented approach demonstrates the possibility of targeted ICG to be employed in PAM molecular imaging, allowing more precise evaluation of neovascularization.
Polycaprolactone/silk fibroin electrospun nanofibers‐based lateral flow test strip for quick and facile determination of bisphenol A in breast milk
Authors: Gürel‐Gökmen Begüm , Taslak Hava Dudu , Özcan Ozan , İpar Necla , Tunali‐Akbay Tuğba
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to develop a sensitive lateral flow test strip for the detection of bisphenol A (BPA) in breast milk. Conventional nitrocellulose test membrane was coated with the coaxial nanofiber, consisting of the inner polycaprolactone (PCL) and the outer PCL/silk fibroin (SF) mixture, to decrease the flow rate of the breast milk in the lateral flow assay (LFA). The nanofiber was prepared by using coaxial electrospinning, and BPA antibody was immobilized physically to the nanofiber. This nanofiber was used as a test membrane in the LFA. Color changes on the test membrane were evaluated as the signal intensity of the BPA. Breast milk creates a background on surfaces due to its structural properties. This background was detected by comparing the signal intensity with the signal intensity of water. The higher signal intensity was found in water samples when compared to breast milk samples. Although the detection limit is 2 ng/ml in both coaxial PCL/SF nanofiber and nitrocellulose (NC) test membranes, the color intensity increased with the increasing BPA concentration in the coaxial PCL/SF nanofiber. As a new dimension, the coaxial PCL/SF nanofiber provided higher color intensity than the NC membrane. In conclusion, a sensitive onsite method was developed for the detection of BPA in breast milk by using new coaxial PCL/SF nanofiber as a test membrane in LFA.
Tomentosin inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in MOLT‐4 leukemia cancer cells through the inhibition of mTOR/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Linlin , Xie Jin , Almoallim Hesham S. , Alharbi Sulaiman A. , Chen Yanli
Published: January 2021

Leukemia is amongst the cancers accountable for substantial mortality around the world. Tomentosin is a bioactive compound with a pharmacological significance, and its anticancer property against human leukemia MOLT‐4 cell line has never been reported. Hence, the objective of this study was to explore the anticancer activity of tomentosin in MOLT‐4 human leukemia cells. In the current investigation, the cytotoxic effects of tomentosin ensuing potent toxicity (IC50: 10 µM) in MOLT‐4 cells after incubation at 24 h have been presented. Furthermore, tomentosin triggered intracellular reactive oxygen species production and showed the induction of intrinsic/mitochondrial pathways in treated MOLT‐4 cells, revealing a significant cytotoxicity activity. Also, fluorescent microscopic studies using acridine orange/ethidium bromide and propidium iodide staining confirmed the occurrence of apoptosis in tomentosin‐treated MOLT‐4 cells. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction presented a negative regulation of cyclin D1 and BcL‐2 expression and a positive regulated BAX and caspase‐3 messenger RNA expression in tomentosin‐treated MOLT‐4 cells. Tomentosin further inhibited the inflammatory transcription factors such as nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB), tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1β (IL‐1β), and IL‐6. Additionally, inhibition of the m‐TOR/PI3K/AKT protein expression by tomentosin in MOLT‐4 cells was confirmed. Overall, these findings lead to a conclusion that tomentosin induces apoptosis in MOLT‐4 cells through caspase‐facilitated proapoptotic pathway, and inhibition of the NF‐κB‐stimulated Bcl‐2 facilitated the antiapoptotic pathway.
Endoscopic treatment for a giant gastric bezoar: Sequential use of electrohydraulic lithotripsy, alligator forceps, and snares
Authors: Jinushi Ryuhei , Yano Takahiko , Imamura Noriatsu , Ishii Naoki
Published: January 2021

A 62‐year‐old woman with no past history was referred to our hospital for endoscopic treatment of a large gastric bezoar measuring 10 cm in diameter. The bezoar had a hard surface and huge volume. A tunnel was created at the center of the bezoar using electrohydraulic lithotripsy and was dilated using a through‐the‐scope balloon. The bezoar was then gradually crushed using alligator forceps and snares to decrease the risk of intestinal obstruction by the crushed bezoar fragments. The sequential use of electrohydraulic lithotripsy, alligator forceps, and snares according to the therapeutic plan enabled the endoscopic treatment of the giant gastric bezoar without surgery.
Epidemiology of influenza B infection in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, from 2003 to 2019
Authors: Duarte Marina Beretta , Gregianini Tatiana Schäffer , Martins Letícia G. , Veiga Ana Beatriz G.
Published: January 2021

Influenza B virus (IBV) causes respiratory tract infections with mild, moderate, or life‐threatening symptoms. This study describes the epidemiology of IBV infection in Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil, over 17 years. Nasopharyngeal samples were collected from outpatients presenting acute respiratory illness (ARI) between 2003 and 2019, and from inpatients with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) from 2009 to 2019. IBV was detected by immunofluorescence assay or quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction; demographic and clinical data were analyzed. In total, 48,656 cases of respiratory infection were analyzed, of which 20.45% were ARI, and 79.46% were SARI. Respiratory viruses accounted for 22.59% and 37.47% of the cases of ARI and SARI, respectively. Considering respiratory viral infections, 17.10% of ARI and 3.06% of SARI were associated with IBV. IBV circulated year‐round in RS, with an increase in autumn and winter, peaking in July (p = .005). IBV infection showed an association with age, and most outpatients positive for IBV were between 10 and 49 years old, whereas IBV infection in SARI affected mainly individuals ≤ 1 year or ≥ 60 years old. No significant association was found between sex and IBV infection. Coryza, sore throat, and myalgia were associated with ARI (p < .001). Moreover, 3.18% of the deaths associated with respiratory virus infection were positive for IBV; notably, cardiopathy (p < .001), metabolic disease (p < .001), and smoking (p = .003) were associated to fatality in IBV infection. IBV is an important cause of severe respiratory infections, and the fatality risk is high in individuals with cardiopathy and metabolic diseases.
Impact of image integration on clinical and procedural outcomes of radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Mammadli Anar , Demirtola Ayse I. , Diker Erdem
Published: January 2021

Background

The purpose of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate the impact of image integration technique on clinical and procedural outcomes in patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation with a three‐dimensional electroanatomic mapping system.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials were identified through a systematic literature search of PubMed and CENTRAL databases from inception to April 2020. The primary outcome was arrhythmia recurrence during the follow‐up period. The secondary outcomes were the difference in total procedural time and fluoroscopy time.

Results

Four studies with a total of 749 patients were included. The pooled result showed no statistically significant difference between the groups with respect to arrhythmia recurrence (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.47‐1.21), fluoroscopy time (MD, −6 minutes; 95% CI, −23.4 to 11.3), and total procedural time (MD, 1.1 minutes; 95% CI, −31.8 to 34.1).

Conclusion

Image integration to guide radiofrequency catheter ablation for patients with atrial fibrillation does not improve clinical and procedural outcomes.
An integrated multi‐GCMs Bayesian‐neural‐network hydrological analysis method for quantifying climate change impact on runoff of the Amu Darya River basin
Authors: Su Yuanyuan , Li Yongping , Liu Yuanrui , Huang Guohe , Jia Qimeng , Li Yanfeng
Published: January 2021

As one of the most pressing issues in the world, climate change has already caused evident impacts on natural and human systems (e.g., hydrological cycle, eco‐environment and socio‐economy) in recent decades. In this study, an integrated multi‐GCMs Bayesian‐neural‐network hydrological analysis (MBHA) method is developed for quantifying climate change impacts on runoff. MBHA incorporates multiple global climate models (multi‐GCMs), hydrological model (HBV‐light), and Bayesian neural network (BNN) within a general framework. MBHA can provide the reliable prediction for runoff as well as reflect the impact of climate change on data scarcity catchments. MBHA is applied to the Amu Darya River basin in Central Asia. Climate data are derived from multiple GCMs (i.e., GFDL‐ESM2G, HadGEM2‐AO and NorESM1‐M) under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. Several findings can be summarized: (1) during 2021–2100, both precipitation and temperature would increase, with more precipitation falling as rain instead of snow; (2) by 2100, glacier areas are predicted to reduce by 62.3% (RCP4.5) and 71.9% (RCP8.5); (3) under RCP8.5, monthly runoff would increase by 11.2% in 2021–2060 and reduce by 5.0% in 2061–2100; this is because the glaciers would rapidly disappear with the rising temperature after 2060. The findings suggest that the shrinked glacier and the reduced runoff threaten the water availability especially in summer seasons as well as affect the agricultural irrigation in the downstream of the Amu Darya River.
Human angiotensin I‐converting enzyme study by surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Boginskaya Irina , Nechaeva Natalia , Tikhomirova Victoria , Kryukova Olga , Evdokimov Valery , Bulaeva Naida , Golukhova Elena , Ryzhikov Ilya , Kost Olga , Afanasev Konstantin , Vereshchagin Konstantin , Kurochkin Ilya
Published: January 2021

Angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) is a glycoprotein, consisting of two homologous domains within a single polypeptide chain. ACE concentration in biological fluids is an important parameter of clinical observation; its increase or decrease may accompany various pathologies. Currently, the exact crystal structure of the two‐domain ACE form is still unknown because of microheterogeneity and intensity of the enzyme glycosylation. Raman spectroscopy provides the qualitative and quantitative analysis of many compounds, including proteins. For the first time, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra of native and thermo‐denatured human ACE have been demonstrated with full assignment. Denaturation leads to SERS intensity increase and bands shifting. Detailed band assignment and discussion are included to elucidate the potential site of ACE interaction with the silver surface. Based on SERS spectra, we characterized the region on the ACE molecule in contact with the substrate and demonstrated the model of the two‐domain ACE adsorbed on a silver matrix.
Role of non‐thermal treatments and fermentation with probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum on in vitro bioaccessibility of bioactives from vegetable juice
Authors: Dogan Kubra , Akman Perihan Kubra , Tornuk Fatih
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Lactic acid fermentation is a natural way to increase the bioactive and functional properties of fruit and vegetable juices. In this study, the in vitro gastrointestional digestion of phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity of mixed vegetable juice was investigated as affected by fermentation with probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum and non‐thermal treatments (ultraviolet (UV) and/or ultrasonic (US) treatment). For this purpose heat, US, UV or US/UV treated vegetable juice samples were fermented by probiotic L. plantarum and percentage recovery of bioactive (total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC) and total anthocyanin contents (TAC) and antioxidant (DPPH [1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl] and CUPRAC [CUPric Reducing Antioxidant Capacity]) properties was evaluated during simulated gastrointestinal digestion.

RESULTS

Total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB) and total yeast‐mold (TYM) counts were significantly decreased by thermal and non‐thermal processes and coliforms were fully eliminated. The bioaccessibility of total phenolics, anthocyanins, and flavonoids decreased after in vitro digestion. In general, recovery (5.78–34.71%) and serum availability of the bioactives was positively influenced by the fermentation and non‐thermal treatments. Phenolics and anthocyanins exhibited the highest and the lowest recovery, respectively, while post‐digestion recovery of antioxidant was between that of the phenolics and anthocyanins.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirmed that US and UV treatment could be advantageous alternatives to heat treatment for ensuring the microbial safety of vegetable juices with increased in vitro bioaccessibility of bioactive compounds while probiotic fermentation with L. plantarum contributed to the improvement of the bioactive profile. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of Fetal Cardiac Size and Shape: A New Screening Tool to Identify Fetuses at Risk for Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: DeVore Greggory R. , Satou Gary M. , Afshar Yalda , Harake Danielle , Sklansky Mark
Published: January 2021

Objective

Prenatal detection rates for tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) vary between 23 and 85.7%, in part because of the absence of significant structural abnormalities of the 4‐chamber view (4CV), as well as the relative difficulty in detection of abnormalities during the screening examination of the outflow tracts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the 4CV and ventricles in fetuses with TOF may be characterized by abnormalities of size and shape of these structures.

Methods

This study retrospectively evaluated 44 fetuses with the postnatal diagnosis of TOF. Measurements were made from the 4CV (end‐diastolic length, width, area, global sphericity index, and cardiac axis) and the right (RV) and left (LV) ventricles (area, length, 24‐segment transverse widths, sphericity index, and RV/LV ratios). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify variables that might separate fetuses with TOF from normal controls.

Results

The mean gestational age at the time of the last examination prior to delivery was 28 weeks 5 days (SD 4 weeks, 4 days). The mean z‐scores were significantly lower in fetuses with TOF for the 4CV and RV and LV measurements of size and shape. Logistic regression analysis identified simple linear measurements of the 4CV, RV, and LV that had a sensitivity of 90.9 and specificity of 98.5% that outperformed the 4CV cardiac axis (sensitivity of 22.7%) as a screening tool for TOF.

Conclusions

Measurements of the 4CV, RV, and LV can be used as an adjunct to the outflow tract screening examination to identify fetuses with TOF.